My Reference Shelf

Some time ago, someone asked me where I get the "nuts and bolts" information that is scattered throughout my stories and RPG adventures. I actually have a fairly extensive reference library, with topics ranging from archaeology to xenozoology. Whether I am doing some writing or preparing for an upcoming RPG adventure or campaign, I will frequently turn to my "Reference Shelf" (which actually takes up more than a single shelf). 

Those soft sounds you hear are those of my players who know me well enough to understand what such a phrase is likely to mean. The majority of them are clutching their character sheets to their chests and whimpering in dismay ... while the more seasoned minority (such as my daughter) are refusing to waste their energy in whimpering and are instead searching desperately for their library cards.

It's good to be the GM.

One prominent segment of my Reference Shelf features books from the various Osprey series. I make a point to try to acquire physical copies of those books which will see extensive use in my writing. Two titles from the Dark Osprey series (a favorite of mine) are Nazi Moonbase by Graeme Davis and The Nazi Occult by Kenneth Hite. 

           

"Prepper" books are inordinately useful, providing much of the aforementioned nuts-and-bolts information. Two such titles are by James Wesley, Rawles: How to Survive the End of the World as We Know It, and Tools for Survival.

                                     

There are also various writer's guides, particularly science-fiction ones.

  

At one time, I also had the entire 26-volume Time-Life "Old West" series. Alas, several of those volumes have gone missing over the years and moves, and I need to replace them when I can.