I was trolling through Gawker the other day when I stumbled on this great illustration by Harris O'Malley and wondered which books lent inspiration to the work. Here's what he had to say:

I did this piece as part of a targeted portfolio aimed at various RPG companies such as White Wolf and Wizards of the Coast. It came out so well and had such personality that it's become something of a signature piece for me and I've been using it as a visual anchor for my web-presence.

The idea itself is mostly part of what I like to draw; urban fantasy but with a twist. I like illustrative art, something with personality and a hint of narrative. I like taking dramatic pieces like that and giving them a little touch of humor, a sort of wink and a smile to the viewer.

Book-wise, books like Jim Butcher's The Dresden Files, Simon R. Greene's Nightside series and Patrick Rothfuss' "Name of the Wind" have been on the reading list while I wait for the next George R. R. Martin novel.

I can't wait to get my copy of Demon Summoning for Dummies.