I revisited my writing tool kit last weekend.  Here are some of my favorites:

1. Break into Fiction, Adams Media, by Mary Buckham and Dianna Love.  Great way to develop emotional growth and romantic arcs (character and motivation).  Can be scary stuff for beginners.  I try to create a quiet environment, ask the question (yes, sometimes out loud) and listen - really listen - to the small voice that pops up with the answer.  Best advice: to keep a character behaving consistently by developing if, then statements.  For example, If I nurture people, then I belong would explain why a character will take brutal punishment in order to remain part of a family unit - cinderella, anyone? (that is, of course, until a hero comes along and shows her what belonging really means).
2. Book in a Month, Writer's Digest Books, by Victoria Lynn Schmidt.  Have trouble plotting or finishing a story?  Try this method.  You can download her worksheets free on her web site or take an online course if your bookshelf is already crowded.
3. The Complete Writer's Guide to Heroes & Heroines, Lone Eagle, Tami Cowden, Caro LaFever, Sue Viders.  Remember/ever heard the old commercial:  sometimes you feel like a nut, sometimes you don't? There are times when I'm writing a character and all of a sudden she wants to go from a plucky girl next door to a seductress.  When you have one of those mind numbing moments, crack open this book, find the archetype for your character and a film example to use as your inspiration (Joan Wilder would never turn into a Temptress!).
4. The Writer's Brain Storming Kit, Gryphon Books, Pam McCutcheon, Michael Waite.  This book is really good when plotting out a synopsis (repeat after me: thou shall love a synopsis like a square of chocolate).  For example, if your story revolves around a secret, in this book you'll find what might be troubling about a secret, how it might result in conflict and how a character needs to grow or will be changed by a secret.  Sometimes all you need is a nudge to unlock a whole new direction.
5. Any book on motivation for me, as a writer, an artist and a person trying to life a joyful, abundant life.  Eric Maisel, The Secret, Wayne Dyer, Tony Robbins.  The list is endless.  When I walk or drive long distances I like to listen to motivational speakers.  It's like having your own personal life coach tweaking your attitude.

I have a tall bookshelf full of writing books and resources, but these seem to be the ones I go to when I need a boost, some inspiration or just some advice.  When you're stuck you need to hear the Beatles sing, "Little darlin'.  It seems the ice is slowly melting...Here comes the sun.  It's all right."

Mel