This is K.M. Wyland and you are listening to the 32nd episode of the word play podcast.

I got to spend most of this frigid week curled up in my rocking chair with a mound of books at

my elbow, reading away about World War I, add a little candlelight, maybe a little chocolate, and I admit the whole thing feels

far too luxurious to be counted as work. Of course, by the time the morning rolls around and I'm

faced with my pile of notes to be transcribed.

The luxury wears off a bit.

I'm enjoying my forays into the bleak landscapes of World War I.

If you can get your hands on the coffee table book,

Faces of World War I by Max Arthur. I highly recommend it.

You can now claim your copy of my free e-book, Crafting Unforgettable Characters, a hands-on

introduction to bringing your characters to life.

Featuring some of my most popular blog posts on character crafting, this PDF offers a good starting

place for understanding the basics of character building, as well as some tips for troubleshooting.

You'll also discover inspiring quotes from successful authors, writing prompts, and creativity exercises.

Of course, the discussion of character is far too vast a subject to be covered in a 50-page e-book.

But this information will give you the tools you need to tackle your latest batch of characters.

You can receive your copy by signing up for my emailing list on my blog at wordplay dash k-m-Y-L-E-L-N-D dot blog spot.

Look for the form in the top of the left-hand column.

Meanwhile, enjoy this week's post.

Why Word-Count goals can be destructive.

Word counts with the trusted aides of many writer.

With the ever-present call of duties, relationships, and even just sweet inertia,

...