I've only watched one ep of True Blood and never read the books, but I can see how one would lead to the other. (that one ep didn't make me want to watch any more of it particularly.)

Joyce was a very real charachter, with failings and strength.

Watching it initially I wanted more of her, wanted her to know that Buffy was a Slayer sooner etc and be part of the story more. Which is valid, esp since Giles is so important to the story; but what is there is oftentimes very rich.

She was never less than supportive for anything I did, even when I learnt to weld and build truck bodies and hung out with the boys. :D

Good for her! I dare say that wasn't entirely usual for a woman of that time (it wouldn't have been in America, I think.)