This lively discussion brings to light the intricate relationship between literature and tabletop gaming, particularly focusing on how beloved book characters inspire Dungeons & Dragons campaigns. The host engages with a trio of experienced Dungeon Masters—Dan, Pat, and Neil—who share their unique experiences and insights from years of gaming. They dive into the mechanics of character creation, the artistry of storytelling, and even sprinkle in some humorous anecdotes about their personal gaming journeys. Notably, they emphasize the importance of drawing inspiration from a myriad of sources, ranging from classic literature to modern comics, showcasing how these narratives can enrich the gaming experience. As the conversation flows, listeners are treated to a blend of clever banter and thoughtful reflections on how to weave literary elements into the fabric of their own campaigns, making for an engaging and informative episode.

Links referenced in this episode:

• linktr.ee/stayre
• wanderingdms.com
• pathfinderinfinity.com
• pathfinderinfinity.com/doomworksfieldmanual

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• Wandering DMs
• Pathfinder
• GUI Cube

We're here with three new gamemasters, Alex Jackl, Sean Murphy and Ian Eller to explore the new Universe by James S. A. Corey, the creators of the Expanse. The Mercy of Gods, the first book in the Captive's War series pits the human-like Anjinn against the overwhelming forces of the technologically superior and authoritarian Carryx who come to conquer them.

This book proved a real challenge to bring to the table top space but Alex, Sean and I did an admirable job.

Petra Jackl, Roger Alix-Gaudreau, Colleen Nachtrieb, and Eric Jackson dive into the enchanting—and at times unsettling—world of T Kingfisher's *Nettle and Bone*, exploring its rich tapestry of themes that juxtapose dark fairy tale elements with a fierce critique of patriarchal structures. The conversation highlights how the narrative revolves around Mara, a princess nun on a quest to rescue her sister from an oppressive marriage, as she navigates through a landscape filled with quirky companions and macabre encounters. Each participant brings their unique perspective, discussing the blend of humor and hope that permeates the story, and how it brilliantly balances the grim with the whimsical. They also explore various role-playing game systems that could effectively capture the book's essence, demonstrating how the story's intricate details could translate into immersive gameplay. With laughter and insightful banter, they examine the book's memorable characters and scenes, such as the notorious Bone Dog and the eerie Thief Wheel, leaving listeners with a sense of both intrigue and inspiration to incorporate these elements into their own gaming experiences.

Welcome back to Episode 3 of the Game Master's Book Club. With our three new club members, Petra Jackl, Roger Alix-Gaudreau, and Colleen Nachrieb we enter the world of T. Kingfisher's "Nettle and Bone", a fairy tale land that blends homey pragmatism, macabre hopepunk and a hefty dose of rage against the patriarchy.

Links referenced in this episode:

• risingphoenixgamecon.com
• fearfulends.com
• k-squareproductions.com
• gmbookclub
• bsocial

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• K Square Productions
• T Kingfisher
• Dresden Fiasco
• Earthdawn
• Shadowrun
• Cipher system
• Call of Cthulhu
• Built by the Apocalypse
• Dungeon World
• Girl Underground
• Girl by Moonlight
• Evil Hat Productions
• Fearful Ends

The discussion revolves around Becky Chambers’ thought-provoking works, *A Psalm for the Wild Built* and its sequel, *A Prayer for the Crown Shy*, which delve into the essence of humanity through a sci-fi lens. This episode highlights the central inquiry posed by the narrative: what do humans truly need? As the hosts—Eric, Chris, Sam, and David—explore the solarpunk setting where robots have chosen to abandon their tools and embrace a life of self-awareness and coexistence with nature, they engage in a rich dialogue about the philosophical implications of such choices. The episode also touches on the unique character dynamics, particularly the non-binary tea monk, Sibling Dex, and the robot Mosscap, who together navigate a world that challenges the reader’s understanding of existence and community. With witty banter and insightful commentary, the hosts not only reflect on the beauty of the writing and world-building but also ponder how these themes can be integrated into their own gaming experiences. As they traverse the nuances of hope and humanity, listeners are invited to consider how fiction can inspire real-world connections and gaming narratives.

We're back with Chris Grannis, Sam Liberty and David Clarkson to explore Becky Chamber's Monk and Robot duology "A Psalm for the Wild-Built" and "A Prayer for the Crown-Shy". We discuss this excellent piece of world-building and suggest a number of world building games to compliment it.

Links referenced in this episode:

• random.org
• ksquareproductions.com/gmbc

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• K Square Productions
• Tor Books
• random.org
• Cozy Town
• Lasers and Feelings
• A Quiet Year
• Icarus
• The Terraformers
• Black Panther
• WALL-E
• Treasure Planet
• Howl's Moving Castle
• Siddhartha
• Carlos Castaneda

The latest discussion on the Game Masters Book Club revolves around the intricacies of Stephen King's *Fairy Tale*, a modern fantasy that weaves elements of horror and adventure with a twist of the classic fairy tale narrative. Eric Jackson, along with seasoned game masters Chris Grannis, David Clarkson, and Sam Liberty, explores how the novel's unique settings, characters, and scenes can be translated into captivating role-playing game experiences. They delve into the book's dual worlds, highlighting the protagonist's unexpected journey from the mundane to a magical realm filled with peril and wonder. Their conversation is peppered with insightful observations on character dynamics, particularly the tension between heroes and their darker counterparts, and how these themes can enhance gameplay. Listeners can expect a blend of creative inspiration and practical advice on adapting literary narratives into engaging gaming sessions, ensuring that the essence of King’s storytelling translates seamlessly into their own campaigns.

In our inaugural episode, talented Gamemaster's Chris Grannis, Sam Liberty and David Clarkson discuss the World of Empis and its denizens from Stephen King's mediation on the fairy tale. For more information be sure to check out the website at https://emu-bugle-p6xh.squarespace.com/gmbc

Links referenced in this episode:

• k-squareproductions.com
• risingphoenixgamecon.com

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• K Square Productions
• Changeling the Dreaming
• Changeling the Lost
• Urban Shadows
• Powered by the Apocalypse
• White Wolf
• Dungeons and Dragons
• Cortex
• Genesis
• Star Wars
• Talisman
• The Gunslinger
• Eyes of the Dragon
• Narnia Chronicles
• In Other Lands
• The Long Earth
• Forsooth
• Swords Without Master