Wednesday, June 10, 2009

New Borders Sci-Fi Blog

I've been following Babel Clash, the new Borders blog for science fiction and fantasy, for a few days now and thought some of you may be interested. Last week's guest was Kim Harrison, the author of the new book Once Dead, Twice Shy and The Hollows urban fantasy series (that reminds me I still need to read book 2 since I just got a hold of it recently). Kim discussed horror and phobias since her books are often shelved in horror even though she doesn't write it. This week Brandon Sanderson is discussing the line between familiar and overused tropes in fantasy - he doesn't like elves or dwarves yet there is something about dragons that he can't help but love. It's been interesting so far and I'm looking forward to seeing what other authors they have lined up.

On the subject of Kim Harrison, I read recently that she also writes fantasy under the name Dawn Cook. I've seen books by Dawn Cook several times and wondered how they are. Has anyone read any of them? If so, what did you think?

In other news, I'm still working on my review of The Mote in God's Eye. It's about halfway done but I haven't had much time to finish it lately (at least when I'm not too tired to think straight).

5 comments:

Thea said...

Ok, I feel like a complete freaking idiot. I had NO IDEA that Kim Harrison was DAWN COOK!!!! Kim Harrison (as you know, hehe) is my favorite female-protag. UF author, and I have read and loved "Dawn Cook"'s Princess books, as well as First Truth.

Wow. That is freaking mindblowingly awesome. I love Kim Harrison even more now, if that's possible!

And, yeah, by the way, you should totally start reading The Hollows book 2 already ;) No pressure.

Kristen said...

Thea - From what I read, it sounded like Kim Harrison only recently admitted that she was Dawn Cook. After I finish The Hollows series, I'll have to check out the books by Dawn Cook. Which did you prefer the Princess books or First Truth?

Yes, I know, I really should hurry up and read book 2. ;) I need more reading hours in my day.

Unknown said...

Thanks for pointing out the Brandon Sanderson interview. I enjoy how Brandon uses fantasy tropes and turns them on their head and I was interested in learning a little more about what he does.

orannia said...

Thanks for the link Kristen.

Hmmm, perhaps I should try Kim Harrison/Dawn Cook (I haven't read...the author under either name :)

And good luck catching some zzzzz!

Kristen said...

John - I enjoyed reading what Brandon Sanderson had to say about fantasy tropes too. And I have to agree with him about dragons - just can't help but love them.

Orannia - I haven't read Dawn Cook yet, but I did enjoy the first book in Kim Harrison's The Hollows series when Thea and Ana dared me to read it. :) It was the paranormal/mystery sort of urban fantasy and very fast-paced and fun.