Any decent writer will have a list of books that they rely upon to appear competent enough to wield a pen (or a keyboard).  This is my list:

The Writer’s Guide to Fantasy Literature — From Dragon’s Lair to Hero’s Quest by Philip Martin.  An excellent writer’s tome that covers all aspects of writing fantasy literature from story germination, to character development, plotting, revision to submission and marketing. Particular emphasis is on characters, places, patterns, and plot.  Martin does a great job of weaving in excerpts from other fantasy literature sources to help highlight and illuminate the fantasy writer’s craft.

The Modern Library‘s Writer’s Workshop by  Stephen Koch.  This is my current favorite writer’s tome; a compendium of everything you need to know as a writer, written by a master teacher of the craft.  I can’t say enough to properly expound on the wealth of knowledge in this book.  It blends advice and examples in a compelling and well written manner.  There are a few books that I can honestly say I’d feel naked without  — this is one of them.

Revision.  A Creative Approach to Writing and Rewriting Fiction.  David Michael Kaplan.  A great piece of work with excellent examples from contemporary authors.  Always good to see how masters of the craft do what they do (for better or for worse).

Self-Editing for Fiction Writers.  Renni Browne and Dave King.  I have the second edition which I believe is still the current one.  This is my editing bible, Thou shalt Die a Thousand deaths if you try to take mine.

Keep in mind this is still a work-in-progress.  I will add to this when I can.  Last updated May 2, 2012.