Paperback Writer in her post about Blood Bound asks for names of writers who regularly surprise us (me, you, you get the idea). I didn’t have much to say at the time, but after some reflection, I have some thoughts to offer. I don’t know that writers surprise me so much as they captivate or intrigue me. They do something that makes me want to come back for more. I’ve discovered some writers lately and others I’ve known about for years. Here’s a partial list:

Latest discovery (and I had help on this one): Lois McMaster Bujold. A friend gave me two of her books for Christmas, and, when I mentioned how much I enjoyed them, I got another list of must reads — not only for the reading value but to study as an author for improving my craft. Class is now in session.

Laura Lippman. I’m hooked on Tess Monaghan. I started reading out of order, and thay may have helped. I just finished the first two books in the series, and I can see where Laura’s gotten more into the swing of the series as she’s written. I’ve spent time in both Baltimore and San Antonio. Laura has ties to both cities as well, although I think our connection time is inversely proportional for each of us. Tess has a few habits I don’t endorse, and I spend a little time yelling at her, but Laura realistically portrays a character who is learning her profession. Face it, we don’t always get it right, and I know there are times when someone else is standing by mentally screaming at how we’re screwing up. To me, that must mean there’s some solid character development going on in these books.

Brandilyn Collins. I read Violet Dawn and am looking forward to reading more of her work. I think it was the body in the hot tub that did it for me.

Robert Liparulo. He’s a fresh face, but I thoroughly enjoyed Comes A Horseman and Germ. Especially in Germ, characters had a bad habit of ending up dead. I think more than two survived Germ, but it’s a close call. That’s the problem with virii — and bullets.

Holly Lisle. If you’re a regular here, you know this. Holly applies a complex kaleidoscope of skills to produce a depth of work that just blows me away.

Jean Auel. Years ago when Clan of the Cave Bear was new, my aunt told me about it. I read it. I got hooked. Earth’s Children is an incredible series, and I’m glad to have been able to read it.

C. S. Forester. Want to read about leadership in action in fiction? The Hornblower Series is a must.

Sinclair Lewis. Nobel Prize for Literature or not, most of the world disagrees with me, but this guy has something to offer.

That’s a beginning look. I have more. What? I’ve just provided an opportunity for at least six months of reading. Get to it.