Sarah Gailey's "River of Teeth" takes center stage as the Game Masters Book Club dives into a whimsical and unexpectedly thrilling alternate history where hippos reign supreme. Eric Jackson, alongside game masters Petra Jackel, Colleen Noctrip, and Roger Alex Goudreau, embarks on a lively discussion about this unique narrative that intertwines heists, vibrant characters, and, yes, hippos. The crew explores how this peculiar premise not only entertains but also sparks discussions on character dynamics and world-building in role-playing games. From the hilarity of a heist involving these massive creatures to the ingenious character arcs that emerge, they highlight the charm and chaos that ensue when players and characters alike take on unexpected roles. Join them as they unpack the delightful eccentricities of this literary adventure, proving that sometimes the most outrageous concepts make for the most engaging storytelling.

Links referenced in this episode:

• ladyblackbird
• ladyblackbirdrpg
• risingphoenixgamecon
• k-squareproductions.com
• gamemastersbookclub
• bluesky.social/gmbookclub
• facebook.com/gamemastersbookclub
• instagram.com/gamemastersbookclub

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• Sarah Gailey
• Blades in the Dark
• John Harper
• Kids on Bikes
• Cowboy Bebop
• Rising Phoenix Game Con
• Nicholas Atwater
• Olivia Atwater
• Deanna Raybourn
• Stark Holborn

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.