#avon be tempting

[y2kbeautyandother2000sstuff]

Avon Be...Tempting Seductive Body Spray

2007

Found on Ebay, user vebargains

[outlying-hyppocrate]

mindlessly eating flowers, hands shoving them violently into your own mouth. everything around you is flowers, you become the sun and the clouds and the sky. briefly yourself again, a butterfly, but as wings and eyelids flutter open and shut, you come to realize that you are re-entering these dreams, and find yourself half-alive in the dead of night with hydrangeas spilling from your lips

[vicsuragi]

okay, i revamped my old ocs from elementary school so now you get moodboards inspired by them (but if they were in a band ig)

edwin kraten (he/she/it), bass player and green apple candy enthusiast

ivy masen (she/they), lead singer and neighborhood cat feeder

avon blackwell (he/him), fan and artist

[incorrect-blakes7]

Obsessed with the way he’s tucked into his jacket here

I’m incredibly tempted to draw Avon angrily turtled in his outdoor gear

[talldarkandroguesome]

30th of Hearthfire, Morndas

After so much drought in summer, now that autumn has come, we are set upon by great rains. Three and a half weeks now we have had rain. We had a reprieve of only half a day on Loredas past, but since then, the rain has resumed.

The crops are much weaker than we should like. The rain has been so heavy that, even though many farmers had been hopeful, much damage has been done. Only the saltrice has enjoyed the great flooding.

Again the price of grains have gone up. With the saltrice having done so poorly early in the season, many farmers planted more of other types of grain than saltrice.

I have also decided to add to my Nest, which has taken up much of my time not spent with House business. This has meant much planning as we approach our Prince's Summoning Day in just two weeks' time.

There is an Imperial who runs a small in by the docks who has been frequenting Tanur's parties. Apparently they have asked Tanur about various sorts of additional entertainments and even offered up their own establishment in order to tempt Tanur into it. I gave Tanur the okay to do a trial of one of these particularly debaucherous events and Tanur claims that it was a very enjoyable night.

As I am told, the Imperial had wanted to bring in someone from one of the crews that had stiffed them on payment in a previous sailing season, to entice them into the party and then use it to be rid of them. Tanur said that it was done so descreetly, that, even though he was in the room at the time, he had not noticed that the victim lay dead until hours afterwards.

Of course, this is the sort of subtly and tact we look for in new spiderlings. Tanur said that after the event had taken place, that this Imperial had asked if they could come to a sort of regular agreement, so that anyone who had caused trouble at the inn, might be able to be taken in such a way again. Tanur said that they would want to ensure that none of his regulars would wind up as collateral in these sorts of events and so the Imperial promised to allow Tanur to make use of the property regularly and that on nights with a target in mind, Tanur would be alerted.

Naturally I gave my approval. Tanur and this Imperial have been negotiating what this all might look like and Tanur set up a meeting for the Imperial and I to speak about terms. This will take place tomorrow evening, with us joining for a party on Turdas, where I shall be there to oversee how the next target will be taken care of.

I have some hope for how things may go. I just want to ensure that they are not a member of the Dark Brotherhood. If they were Morag Tong, then we could easily align, but a member of the Dark Brotherhood I will have to put down. I hope it does not come to that.

Lucky me that the new moon is Middas. I did not even need to make a special trip to Davon's Watch. And with Sildras occupied with his studies and Avon caring for him, I have few excuses that need to be made. It is just my monthly check on the crypt and the manor in Davon's Watch.

Perhaps I will drop by the Imperial's place of business tomorrow night, just to see how they conduct business. It might be fun to see what sort of security they have in place.

[woozapooza]

The Wire: The Verdict

Umm

Maybe the real wire was the friends we made along the way

I don’t have a lot to say about this show because, as I have said before, I was usually too busy trying to just keep up with what was happening to have brain cells left over for deep thoughts. As I said in that other post, it’s not really a character-driven show, which is why I could never quite fall in love with it. I would have enjoyed it more if we got to spend more time really getting to know the characters, but it’s just not that kind of show. Regardless, even I can tell that it’s an absolutely brilliant work of art, even if I don’t have appropriately brilliant things to say about it.

Favorite character: Probably Omar? It’s hard to choose, because again, I didn’t get to know most of the characters as well as I would have liked, but I’m such a sucker for the Robin Hood thing Omar has got going on. 

Other faves, in no particular order: Stringer (I missed him soooo much in the last two seasons), Freamon (I love when he does his little wood carvings), Pearlman (ginger <3), D’Angelo, Michael and Duquan (package deal; their friendship was one of the most poignant things in the whole show), Bodie, Marlo, McNulty (I would hate him in real life but he’s so entertaining, plus he’s one of the only characters I felt I truly got to know)

Tentative ranking of how much I enjoyed the seasons: 5, 1, 3, 4, 2

I was going to put 3 lower on the list because I didn't care much about the political stuff, but then I remembered that s3 is when the Stringer/Avon dynamic gets really interesting, and that was one of my favorite parts of the whole show.

I 100% see why Black Sails gets compared to this show so often! I’m considering reviving my Every Show Is Black Sails gif series because of The Wire. The problem is, there are SO many parallels, I wouldn’t even know where to start giffing. I would probably have to rewatch The Wire first.

Speaking of which, for much of the show, I was thinking, okay, I’m glad I’m watching this, it’s really good, but I doubt I’ll ever rewatch it from start to finish because I just don’t think I have the motivation for that. But by the time I finished the finale last night, it had won me over enough that now I think I can see myself doing a complete rewatch one day. I’m sure it REALLY rewards rewatching, more so than the average show.

Getting back to the topic of Black Sails—a story is literally true, a story is literally untrue, as time extends it LITERALLY matters less and less! Part of the reason I enjoyed s5 the most was that the plot was a little more over-the-top which kept my stupid little brain entertained, but part of it was also that the theme of truth/untruth and storytelling really came to a head in the final season, and that’s one of my favorite themes a story can have. I mean, by the end, the operations of the police department, the city government, and the newspaper are all basically untethered from material reality, and most of the characters are aware of this, but they can’t do anything about it, because the story has taken on a life of its own, and what could be realer than that? God, that’s like catnip to me. (Also, Scott is such a funny character. I want to punch him so bad.)

I LOVE that the show ended with a montage. I’m such a sucker for montages. I think all of the last three seasons ended with montages? God I love that. I love montages. Every single time.

You know how when you finish something on a streaming service, it recommends something to watch next? Guess what HBO Max suggested I watch after The Wire? That’s right, The Sopranos! I was soooo tempted to dive right into a Sopranos rewatch. I didn’t, because I’m not quite ready yet, but I think I’m close, because the last few episodes of The Wire managed to distract me from The Sopranos ever so slightly, which helped me to calm down about The Sopranos ever so slightly. I’m not quite calm enough, but I think I will be soon.

I had a dream a few nights ago that I visited a haunted house, and there was a scene in the plot of the haunted house that took place in a high school, and Michael was a performer in that scene. I don’t mean that Tristan Wilds the actor was an actor in the haunted house, I mean that Michael Lee the character was an actor in the haunted house. I’d like to think that that’s canon. Actually, yeah, I just decided that the real canon truth was revealed to me in this dream. After the finale, Michael aborts his career as Omar 2.0 to pursue his true calling as a haunted house performer.

I grade shows first and foremost on my own personal feelings, and I didn’t enjoy The Wire quite enough to give it an A or A+, but it’s simply too good to give it anything below the A range. So, overall grade: A-

[villainousshakespeare]

A verse written in Anne Hathaway’s garden in Stanford Upon Avon:

And yet, for all that I may be in love,

And hap’ly loved by him in return,

Still dwells a deeper longing my soul

That prompts me there is more to life than this.

Some sacred mission secret from my self,

Doth slumber softly waiting but to wake.

Ambitions stirs and rears it’s drowsy head,

To prod me from my idle summer days

Into an autumn ripe with work undone.

An opus quite impatient to be told.

A fiery passion leaping from my brain,

Come fully formed and rouse me to my work,

To shake complacency and drive it forth.

This vow I make then to my own dear muse,

I will attempt to use you to your full,

And not forsake the trust you place in me,

Though other tempting paths may turn my head.

For what when long life doth come to an end,

Shall live of me but that which I have penned?

[ancientcosmicsecrets]

The Book Of Leviathan

A Controversial Book of Dark Philosophy and Magic

The Satanic Bible is not a book that you would find in a typical library or bookstore. It is a collection of essays, observations, and rituals that express the worldview and practices of LaVeyan Satanism, a religion founded by Anton LaVey in 1966. LaVeyan Satanism is a form of atheistic Satanism that rejects the existence of supernatural beings and advocates for rational self-interest, individualism, and hedonism.

The Satanic Bible was first published in 1969 by Avon Books and has since sold over one million copies. It is considered the most influential document in modern Satanism and has inspired many other books, groups, and movements that share its philosophy and aesthetics.

The book is divided into four sections, each named after a biblical figure associated with Satan: The Book of Satan, The Book of Lucifer, The Book of Belial, and The Book of Leviathan. Each section contains chapters that cover various topics related to Satanism, such as ethics, psychology, sexuality, magic, and ritual.

The Book of Satan challenges the traditional moral values of Christianity and Judaism, such as the Ten Commandments and the Golden Rule. It advocates for a life of indulgence, pleasure, and vengeance rather than abstinence, sacrifice, and forgiveness. It also praises the virtues of pride, strength, and wisdom rather than humility, weakness, and faith.

The Book of Lucifer explains the core principles and beliefs of LaVeyan Satanism in more detail. It discusses love, hate, responsibility, stratification, and aesthetics. It also clarifies some common misconceptions and criticisms about Satanism, such as its relation to crime, violence, drugs, and animal sacrifice.

The Book of Belial deals with the theory and practice of magic and ritual in Satanism. It defines magic as “the change in situations or events by one’s will, which would otherwise not occur.” It distinguishes between two types of magic: more extraordinary and lesser. More fantastic magic is using ritual and ceremony to focus one’s emotional energy on a specific purpose. Lesser magic is manipulating and persuasion to influence others for one’s benefit. The book also provides instructions for three types of rituals: those for sex, compassion, or destruction.

The Book of Leviathan contains four invocations for different aspects of Satan: lust, compassion, destruction, and the self. It also lists the nineteen Enochian Keys (adapted from John Dee’s Enochian keys), which are supposed to be magical words that can summon demonic forces. The book ends with an epilogue that declares, “Hail Satan!”

The name “Satan” has a long and complex history in various religions and cultures. It originates from the Hebrew word “satan,” which means “adversary” or “accuser.” In the Hebrew Bible (Old Testament), it is used to describe anyone who opposes or challenges God or his people. Sometimes, it refers to a specific angel who acts as God’s prosecutor or tester. In other cases, it relates to human enemies or nations that threaten Israel.

In the New Testament (Christian Bible), Satan becomes more personalized and demonized as the ultimate enemy of God and humanity. He is identified with the serpent who tempted Eve in the Garden of Eden (Genesis 3), the dragon who fought against Michael and his angels in heaven (Revelation 12), and the beast who will rise from the sea in the end times (Revelation 13).

He is also called by various names, such as Lucifer (Isaiah 14), Beelzebub (Matthew 12), Abaddon (Revelation 9), or Antichrist (1 John 2). He is depicted as a fallen angel who rebelled against God out of pride and envy (Isaiah 14; Ezekiel 28), who was cast out of heaven along with his followers (Luke 10; Revelation 12), who rules over the world of darkness and evil (John 12; Ephesians 6), who tempts people to sin (Matthew 4; 1 Peter 5), who accuses them before God (Job 1; Revelation 12), who deceives them with false teachings (2 Corinthians 11; 1 Timothy 4), who torments them with diseases and afflictions (Job 2; Luke 13), who binds them with death and hell (Hebrews 2; Revelation 20), and who will be ultimately defeated by Jesus Christ and thrown into the lake of fire (Matthew 25; Revelation 20).

In Islam, Satan is also known as Iblis or Shaitan and is considered a jinn (a type of spirit) rather than an angel. He was created from fire, while humans were made from clay. He refused to bow down to Adam, the first human, when God commanded him to, claiming he was superior. As a result, he was expelled from paradise and became the enemy of God and humanity. He vowed to mislead and corrupt them until the Day of Judgment when he will be punished in hell. He is also the leader of the other jinn who followed him in his rebellion. He whispers evil thoughts and suggestions into people’s hearts and tries to make them forget God and his commands. He has no power over those who believe in God and seek his protection.

In Judaism, Satan is not seen as an independent or evil being but as an agent subservient to God, who performs a necessary function in his plan. He is typically regarded as a metaphor for the yetzer hara, or “evil inclination,” which is the natural tendency of humans to pursue their desires and interests, sometimes at the expense of others or God’s will. The yetzer hara is not inherently wrong but can be used for good or evil depending on how it is channeled. It is balanced by the yetzer tov, or “good inclination,” which is the natural tendency of humans to seek God’s approval and follow his laws. The role of Satan is to test and challenge people’s faith and obedience to God and to provide them with opportunities for repentance and growth. Satan has no power over those who resist his temptations and choose to do good.

The Satanic Bible presents a different perspective on Satan and his role in human history and society. It does not worship Satan as a literal or personal being but as a symbol of rebellion, freedom, individuality, and self-empowerment. It rejects the idea of absolute morality and authority imposed by external forces, such as God, religion, or society. It embraces the concept of relative morality and authority determined by one’s own will, reason, and experience. It celebrates human nature and potential in all its aspects, both light and dark, both constructive and destructive. It advocates for a life of self-fulfillment, pleasure, and mastery over oneself and one’s environment. It practices magic and ritual to express one’s emotions, desires, and goals and influence one’s reality according to one’s will.

The Satanic Bible is a controversial book that has provoked many reactions from different groups and individuals over the years. Some have praised it as a liberating and empowering manifesto that challenges the status quo and offers an alternative way of living. Some have criticized it as a dangerous and immoral document that promotes selfishness, violence, and chaos. Some have dismissed it as a joke or a hoax with no serious value or relevance.

Whatever one’s opinion, The Satanic Bible remains a fascinating and influential work that reflects the views and values of its author and his followers and the cultural and historical context in which it was written. It also raises many questions about the nature and meaning of Satanism, religion, morality, magic, and human existence.

[metacarpus]

3 août - bleu lagon

'There is comfort at the bottom of a swimming pool' is a phrase I've read somewhere, likely somewhere here, and that I thought was an invitation to suicide. Then I went to see for myself and found that there is indeed comfort at the bottom of a swimming pool. It's something about smooth surfaces, the restless blue, blocked hearing. It's something about nobody can reach me, if I die I die, this is me, this is all there is. It's a bit intense, it's quiet, forced, and somehow yes, yes it's comforting, and surely there's something about death, but not suicide, or if suicide, on a Cioran-like level, 'suicide is what makes life worth it'. I am less and less tempted by the intense comfort of the bottom of a swimming pool. My life got too busy. Whenever I'm near a pool, everywhere there's children underfoot. I have responsibilities now. No time to drown.

[ADDENDUM.

Le bleu des mers n'a rien à voir. Au fond du lagon se trouvent tant de vies qu'elles vous happent, et vos yeux ne s'en remettent jamais, et c'est pourquoi, après, la désolation de la piscine fait l'effet que nous avons ici décrit.]

[hiidenneiti]

Tällä hetkellä lukemassa LUIN JO — Cat Sebastian: The Soldier's Scoundrel. Avon Impulse, 2016.

Jack Turner grew up in the darkness of London's slums, born into a life of crime and willing to do anything to keep his belly full and his siblings safe. Now he uses the tricks and schemes of the underworld to help those who need the kind of assistance only a scoundrel can provide. His distrust of the nobility runs deep and his services do not extend to the gorgeous high-born soldier who personifies everything Jack will never be. After the chaos of war, Oliver Rivington craves the safe predictability of a gentleman's life-one that doesn't include sparring with a ne'er-do-well who flouts the law at every turn. But Jack tempts Oliver like no other man has before.

& The Lawrence Browne Affair. Avon Impulse, 2017.

Lawrence Browne, the Earl of Radnor, is mad. At least, that’s what he and most of the village believes. A brilliant scientist, he hides himself away in his family’s crumbling estate, unwilling to venture into the outside world. When an annoyingly handsome man arrives at Penkellis, claiming to be Lawrence’s new secretary, his carefully planned world is turned upside down. Georgie Turner has made his life pretending to be anyone but himself. A swindler and con man, he can slip into an identity faster than he can change clothes. But when his long-dead conscience resurrects and a dangerous associate is out for blood, Georgie escapes to the wilds of Cornwall. Pretending to be a secretary should be easy, but he doesn’t expect that the only madness he finds is the one he has for the gorgeous earl.

[tonyglowheart]

lmao okay I decided the star headband was a bit... hm, like, both simpler than I wanted and like, not sophisticaed enough of a look. so now the concept is, like, sun? crown? to lean into Icarus iconography that makes sense to me and other Tony aficionados.

but arguably it's also very "art deco-inspired," so it still tracks right? lol

Anyway so here's the current moodboard:

right right side accessories are an option but I think they still perhaps they skew a bit junior for the look I'm starting to envision. In which case, leaning towards the set on the left - though undecided about earring options. (the sun one has a pearl for the stud and I'm not sure about that. the fringe one is cool but might be a bit long. but I haven't found a fringe one I like better)

for shoes, I'm still... torn amongst options lmao. These 5 are my current top contenders, I've actually considered & discarded many. And have a couple more that are sort of circling around as options, but anyway these are my main ones rn. I think 1 + 2 are the top contenders, with 4 and 5 close behind.

okay I know I said I wasn't doing stars anymore (mostly bc I couldn't find a headpiece I liked) but omg look at these vintage Avon earrings (left), and also this extra-ass sun crown from Aliexpress (middle) - which I decided was too much/too costumey. Conversely, I think the other headband is... too simple though I do like the embellishments.

there's this one, but I'm not convinced about the moon. but I think this would be very fun with the Avon earrings...

also actually, if I add in the arc reactor, then suddenly the stars 2.0 options don't not make sense... like if I don't do a light-up arc reactor, then the sun accessories are the way to go I think. but WITH the light-up arc reactor... it gives me more leeway to go costumey without it being like, "halloween costume" if that makes sense?

debating if I get a bag, but if I do, here are the options I'm considering

bag 1 is the top contender, I think it looks best on the moodboard. But I was v tempted by bag 2 bc my friend who is going with a Cap-y look is maybe doing a quilted pattern blue acrylic purse, and the red glitter would match. I'm not entirely convinced by it bc it's like one of those ones where the glitter inside moves, so your stuff would be visible. and I don't like that. also, a potentially breakable/leakable situation is also not gr8

the bottom two are very art deco, with that last one almost too on the nose I think.

also lol, I was like. do I want a cape for extra drama. (yes I do). But I'm not convinced the cape (first left) would work with the look. the studded shawl on the right might be okay? but it would be more of a "shawl for warmth" situation. Which I'm not sure I strictly need. I mean, it's SD, which can get a bit chilly at night, but it's also July...

two other shawl/capelet options would be these guys - which are definitely "safer" options/for a bit of extra warmth options

I also sadly really like this off Shein, but it's NOT a cape, it's a cape + jumpsuit set. Although. If I'm doing sun accessories instead of star, then the star would no longer go with the concept... (I do kind of still like it, though, just like, in general...)

anyway. god I still need to decide on the shoes. and. I'm leaning towards 1, I think?? but I have wide feet which is also why I lean towards a pump sometimes (like, where the shoe has sides lmao)...

anyway here's option 1: https://us.shein.com/Metallic-Detail-Point-Toe-Stiletto-Heeled-Ankle-Strap-Pumps-p-13687807-cat-1750.html?mallCode=1

option 2: https://www.aliexpress.us/item/3256803883007046.html?spm=a2g0o.cart.0.0.10a738dareWPiK&mp=1&gatewayAdapt=glo2usa

option 4: https://us.shein.com/Faux-Pearl-Decor-Point-Toe-Stiletto-Heeled-Ankle-Strap-Pumps-p-10762292-cat-1750.html?mallCode=1

.....I still need to. decide on shoes....

[ilikereadingactually]

Reread Time: Sideways Stories from Wayside School

Sideways Stories From Wayside School by Louis Sachar (this edition illustrated by Julie Brinckloe, Avon Camelot 1985)

i was visiting my parents over the weekend and finished the book i was reading, so i pulled this from a box of books in my childhood bedroom that i've been meaning to bring home with me. what a fun reread!!! just the right amount of silly and offbeat humor. these are the stories of the teachers and kids of the class on the 30th floor of Wayside School, built 30 stories high instead of 30 classrooms in a row. i feel like rereading this has revealed to me a formative interest in narratives that are subtly interconnected, because these stories mostly each feature one kid and stand alone, but of course they involve the other kids in the class and refer to what you've learned or will learn about those kids in other stories! what a delight. my fave might be Paul, who sits in the back and doesn't pay attention to class, just spends the whole story battling his internal need to pull first one and then the other (to make it even and fair) of Leslie's tempting pigtails in the seat in front of him. VERY RELATABLE, PAUL.

the deets

how i read it: i read my physical copy from the late 80s or maybe early 90s, when i was in elementary school. it has a charming amount of yellowing on the edges of the pages, and forms in the back to mail order such gems as the Bunnicula series and mysteries by Mary Downing Hahn.

try this if you: enjoy dry, slightly dark humor, dig an alternate universe only a little different from ours, or know a kid in elementary school who is reading chapter books and likes funny stories.

a line i really liked: for context, Mrs. Gorf hates kids and keeps turning them into apples for such trespasses as sneezing or crying.

By the end of the week all of the children were apples. Mrs. Gorf was very happy. "Now I can go home," she said. "I don't have to teach anymore. I won't have to walk up thirty flights of stairs ever again."

[mediaevalmusereads]

A Lady by Midnight. By Tessa Dare. Avon, 2012.

Rating: 4/5 stars

Genre: historical romance

Part of a Series? Yes, Spindle Cove #3

Summary: After years of fending for herself, Kate Taylor found friendship and acceptance in Spindle Cove—but she never stopped yearning for love. The very last place she'd look for it is in the arms of Corporal Thorne. The militia commander is as stone cold as he is brutally handsome. But when mysterious strangers come searching for Kate, Thorne steps forward as her fiancé. He claims to have only Kate's safety in mind. So why is there smoldering passion in his kiss?

Long ago, Samuel Thorne devoted his life to guarding Kate's happiness. He wants what's best for her, and he knows it's not marriage to a man like him. To outlast their temporary engagement, he must keep his hands off her tempting body and lock her warm smiles out of his withered heart. It's the toughest battle of this hardened warrior's life . . . and the first he seems destined to lose.

***Full review below***

Content Warnings: graphic sexual content, prostitution (due to desperation/exploitation), violence, animal death, brief use of the g-slur, references to torture, depiction of PTSD

Overview: I enjoyed Tessa Dare's second installment in this series, so I figured I'd continue on. Enough said.

Writing: As in other books, the prose in A Lady By Midnight is notable for its quick pace and humor. Dare's writing is easy to follow and easy to love, as it communicates everything clearly while keeping the reader entertained. I don't think I have much to add that I haven't discussed in other reviews.

Plot: The non-romance plot of this book follows Kate Taylor, a working-class orphan who is searching for information about her past. After the mistress of the orphanage where Kate grew up rudely turns her away, Kate is surprised when three siblings (one of which is a marquess) and their elderly aunt turn up at Spindle Cove, claiming that they are her cousins. Kate is eager to be accepted by them, but insists on more evidence being gathered to confirm her identity. In order to provide some kind of protection should the marquess and his family prove dangerous, the Corporal of the local militia, Corporal Thorne, insists on faking an engagement between himself and Kate. Over time, Kate not only unravels details about her past, but about Corporal Thorne as well.

I personally found the mystery of Kate's past to be quite engaging. Because Dare writes Kate as so desperate to learn more about her parents, I also wanted to learn more in order to see Kate achieve some kind of identity. I furthermore found the mystery of Thorne's connection to Kate to be quite intriguing. Thorne's perspective indicates that he knew Kate before she came to Spindle Cove, but Kate doesn't recognize him. Because the info isn't given to us right away, I was curious to learn about this past and how it would throw a wrench in Kate's quest for identity.

The only thing I didn't quite like about this plot was the pacing towards the end. After Kate figures out who she is and decides she wants to be with Thorne, a few things happen which puts the relationship and Kate's future at risk. Personally, I felt like Dare rushed through these events and mainly put them in for a more dramatic ending, and while they could have worked well with a slower pace, as it stands, I found the end a bit too rushed.

Characters: Kate, our heroine, is sympathetic in that her quest for an identity is understandable and pulls at the heartstrings. I very much enjoyed that she was deeply affected by her past yet didn't let it turn her heart to stone. Instead of feeling rejected or being obsessed with walling herself off from emotion, Kate is overflowing with kindness and love, and I loved that she used her longing for a family to form deep connections both with the people of Spindle Cove and with the Gramercys.

Thorne, by contrast, is incredibly stony, and part of his arc involves learning to open up and let people in. I appreciated that Thorne's gruffness isn't presented as some manly trait to swoon over, but is instead a character flaw that Kate means to improve. But there was a point where I was quite irritated by Thorne, which occurred towards the end. In my opinion, Thorne is stubborn to the point of ridiculousness, but granted, that is also something that is presented as a flaw.

The Gramercys - which included 2 sisters (Harry and Lark), a marquess (Evan) and an elderly aunt (Aunt Marmoset) - were incredibly charming. I love that the two sisters took to Kate so readily and did their best to make her feel loved and supported. Evan was pleasant until he got angry or something could potentially affect his family; at those moments, I found his temper and badgering to be rather irritating and they soured me on his character somewhat. Aunt Marmoset was perhaps my favorite; I loved the way she looked after Kate and fed her little spice drops, and I adored her easy-going attitude. Overall, it was just nice to see a family dynamic that was almost universally supportive and invested in doing the right thing (rather than doing things to appease Society).

Romance: The romance between Kate and Thorne was engaging, partly because of their mysterious connection and partly because I like seeing emotionally constipated men crack. Kate spends a good portion of this book trying to find the cink in Thorne's armor, and even when he opens up sexually, Kate is insistent that their relationship can only work if it is emotionally intimate as well. At times, I did find Kate to be a little pushy, but overall, I think Dare wrote her that way for dramatic effect and to make the narrative function, so I don't think I can complain too much.

TL;DR: A Lady By Midnight is a fun romance about an orphan's search for identity paired with a love story about being emotionally vulnerable. While the pace towards the end was a little quick, the overall narrative was a fun read, featuring a sympathetic heroine and a loving, supportive family dynamic.

[theultimatenonbinarynerd]

Star Wars High Republic A Test Of Courage! A Review By Mel.

Major Spoiler Warning For Those Who Haven't Read!

Introduction

Wow I'm speechless, its bit insulting I had such low expectations in the first place. I thought as a Middle Grade book or as us Brits would call it Primary School novel I thought it would just be Light Of The Jedi but with the darkness and mature themes toned down but boy I was wrong. I feel bad for the 8-12 year olds who have to witness millions of people die in the opening chapter. Just like Light Of The Jedi had an intense start with the great disaster I loved the intense build up to the steady wing being exploded. It was a perfect plot set up to help motivate our characters. Master Douglas, Honesty's father and his ambassadors all sacrifice themselves so the younger generation can survive this attack. It's super emotional and is what helps grow as they are stranded together. You really get to see the tragedy of Vernestra having to take a leadership role at the Age of 16 already knighted, Honesty living with the guilt he had a strained relationship with his father and had a fight with him before he died, Avon who has to realise that her mother sent her to the port to be safe, her droid J-6 who has developed her own conscience and personality and poor Imri who has to deal with Darkside whilst also grieving his former Master Douglas.

The themes of grief and guilt were explored thoroughly throughout the book which created a very unique book that could be enjoyed by all ages as a result.

I'm going to split my review into four main categories Plot, Illustrations/Visuals, Character Development and of course a Rating/Conclusion.

Plot

Wow I sort of touched on it in my introduction but I thought the story was fantastic due to the fact Ireland balanced making the story have deep themes and not negating its 8-12 audience very well. Grief is a very hard topic to handle but she did it very well.

I'm also glad that in order to consider her target audience she limited the cast so that younger ones can't lose track of characters. Having a limited cast allowed her to tell the story she needed to tell. I normally find the people stranded in a unknown place together boring but here it worked very well. Every chapter Ireland had me praying for the groups safety and survival especially with that nasty rain.

I also loved that Ireland made the planet just as much of an essential part of the story just as much as the characters. The fact the animals played a key part in helping discover how to survive with the fruits being the key, not to mention the sacrifice of Imris adorable furry friend. I also like how all though this book is for kids Ireland still managed to get off the brutality and beauty of the planet. Every description is vivid and makes me connect with the location and how are characters feel about it.

The stakes felt really high from Imris temptation to kill the Nhil that destroyed the ship, the acid rain and the urgency to escape the planet and hopefully make it to the Starlight Beacon dedication ceremony. For me it made the ending of light of the Jedi even more powerful for me. I loved the fact that even the characters were all under stress they did their best to try stay calm.

This plot is so memorable that its definitely going to engrained in my head forever.

Illustrations/Visuals

Even though illustrations and visual descriptions are two completely separate things, I definitely want to talk about both here as both heavily resonated.

Petur Antonsson illustrates absolutely fantastic pictures in this book that go along side the story written by Ireland, although the art style is clearly aimed at children it is absolutely stunning. I was honestly so tempted to rip out all the pages with art and pin it on my wall. Like the illustration of our core characters exploring the planet was absolutely stunning from the colour palettes to the design of the trees it was just simply amazing. Hope this artist gets to be hired outside of Star Wars because they have a great potential.

Now the visual descriptions are beautiful despite the target audience. Everything Ireland writes especially the Lightsaber battle makes you feel absolutely goose bumps. Ireland brings Star Wars to life through visual descriptions that you desperately want to be in a Star Wars film.

If your wanting this book to have good artwork you won't be disappointed at all.

Now let's get onto character development.

Character Development

Now every character was throughly entertaining and there wasn't a single character I didn't dislike apart from the Nhil of course. There was a lot of depth and personality to the characters despite the target audience of this novel and I really liked that so let's talk about all these characters and my thoughts on how Ireland writes them.

Vernestra Rwoh- An absolutely amazing developed character she has probably one of my favourite character arcs next to Bell Zettifar in Light Of The Jedi. Its very interesting that she's the student that gets higher grades and has lots of high expectations put on her as a result. As someone who's also on the Aro Ace Spec I really related to her. Also the way she grows her confidence and eventually becomes Imris new master makes me super emotional. You feel it pay off when she tells Imri that at the young age of 16 she will be taking Imri as her padawan. A master and apprentice dynamic where there similar ages is certainly something unique and I feel like it was set up well. Especially when Vernestra managed to bring Imri back to the light side of the force.

Imri Cantros- Imri had a really great arc through this book and I honestly felt like he had the strongest writing. Ireland managed to essentially make an Anakin like character but without all the confidence and cockiness. The way we see him lose his way due to his grief really connects with me on a personal level. His inner conflicts showed how human the Jedi were and that it wasn't easy being a Jedi. The build up to him snapping was written amazingly and I got goose bumps when Imri finally got to see the Nhil responsible for his former Masters death. I really emphasised with his arc and hope this amazing writing for him continues in other books he appears in.

Honesty Weft- I liked this character but he did feel a bit one dimensional at first but Ireland eventually won me other with him. I love how you see his grief in contrast with Imri. Like Honesty I also felt guilty about my Dad when he passed and blamed myself for being distance. I love how throughout the book Honesty has to deal with his grief and guilt over the fact he had a fight with his father just before he died. The fact we see him become more like his father but still his own unique person is great. I also like how humble he is after he's rescued from the clutches of the Nhil. Hope that this book wasn't the last we read of him.

Avon Starros- I love this character and found it refreshing to have another non force sensitive character that's got unique skills and is useful to the group. Every time she mentioned wanting to use kyber crystals for the good of science I was like no Avon studying kyber crystals will be bad for science as you'll indirectly help create the Death Star. So I loved that connection as I knew somebody had to have been the one to figure out Kyber Crystals. I'm also of a fan of how mischievous and resourceful she is. I love how prepped and resourceful she is with all of her inventions. As a fellow nerd I also love her nerdy rambles she has. Ireland has definitely unintentionally made an awesome autistic coded character. Her backstory is also really sad and you generally sympathize when she explains how horrible it was getting kidnapped her interactions with the rest of the cast are definitely the most memorable. Definitely one of my favourite characters and I want know must see her again in another book.

J-6: J-6 is probably my second favourite droid to ever exist in Star Wars. I always thought the droid with a personality was not well done in Solo as it was used for comedy and not explored enough. Even though Avon saids shes going to strip back J-6's personality I hope she doesn't as here Ireland writes a really sassy and independent droid. With having her own conscience you can tell how annoyed she is having to serve everyone else and not be her own person. When she let out all of those weapons I thought it was absolutely badass and thoroughly entertaining.

The Nhil: Klinith and Gwishi felt very one dimensional but I enjoyed the back and forth banter between them when they were stranded. Typical moustache twirling villians but I felt like Ireland wrote them terrifyingly. It was quite scary how easily they were able to blend in and destroy a ship with so many innocent people on it. As soon as it mentioned they were from Kassavs Nhil crew I was like oh so that's why they are so sadistic I mean we do remember when Kassav blackmailed a planet for credits to give them information on the emergences.

Rating/Conclusion

A Test Of Courage is a good book for younger audiences but is also a must read for adults if you want to understand what its like being a Jedi and how important it is to not let revenge consume. The characters are all very relatable and you will become heavily attached to them. Despite the target audience it is a book that gets you wanting more, with thrilling action for the whole family.

It's a nice memorable quick read. Therefore I give A Test Of Courage 5 stars.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Thanks for reading my review, I promise I will review more High Republic once I get A Test Of Courage.

-Melody-

They/Them

[yanderefairyangel]

坂上なち + Drop/ 箱庭ロンド/ The Rondo of the Miniature Garden

ガラスの壁にうつる　　　　欲心の赤い薔薇 ベールに包まれていた　　　羨望を呼び覚ます 甘い蜜の香りに　　　　　　誘われ堕ちて行く 恣意の波にさらわれた　　　浅はかなその心 さあ一緒に踊りましょう　　罪に濡れたロンド 移ろう時　　　　　　　　　狂気への舞台が幕を開けた 美しい箱庭の空　　　　　　暗闇に閉ざされて 酔夢に飲み込まれてく　　　拙い希望でさえも 委ねた快楽の海　　　　　　甘い夢に焦がれては 深く深く溺れていく　　　　光さえも見えぬ世界へ

The wall made of glass reflect a greedy red rose

Wrapped in a veil, it awakens my envy

Its sweet scent of honey tempts me and thus I fall

My shallow heart is swept away by waves of arbitrariness

Come now, let's dance together a rond drenched in sin

At the passing of time, the stage of madness opens its curtains

The sky of the miniature garden is beautiful, entrapped in the deep pit of darkness

Swallowing up even the humbliest of hope

Entrusted to an ocean of pleasure, I am yearning for a sweet dream

As we drown deeper and deeper in, we fall in a world were light is no longer visible

開いた禁忌の箱　　　　　　戻せない時の針 きつく固く締まって　　　　ゆく戒めの死の鎖 もう引き返せないの　　　　終わりのないロンド 侵されていく　　　　　　　足が千切れるまで狂い踊れ 美しい箱庭の空　　　　　　羽ばたくこともできぬまま 描いていた夢の終わりを　　受け入れることもできずに 滲みだした　　　　　　　　爪先は欲望の色に溶けてく 黒い十字を身に纏い　　　　囚われの真紅の世界へ

We opened Pandora's box, the needles of time cannot turn back now

The warning of the chains of death tightens more and more around us

There is no way to return, we can only dance an endless rondo

Defiled again and again, entranced in a mad dance until our legs are being torn apart

The sky of the miniature garden is beautiful, but I cannot fly to it anymore

Unable to accept this is the end of my dream

My toes begin to oozen, dissolving into the color of lust

Decorating my body with a black cross, I am trapped into a world of crimson

「なぜなの」　　　　　　　そう嘆いても朽ちた歯車は戻らず 罪と罰に抗うことも　　　　許されずに堕ち続けて 委ねた快楽の海　　　　　　甘い夢に焦がれては 深く深く溺れてく　　　　　廻る血に染まった世界へ

"Why" I lamented, but even doing this won't turn back the rotten gears of time

Sins and punishements are too much for me to endure, thus, unforgivable, my fall continues

Entrusted to an ocean of pleasure, I am yearning for a sweet dream

As we drown deeper and deeper in, we fall in a spinning world stained by blood

Les murs de verre reflètent une cupide rose rouge

Habillé d'un voile fin, elle éveille en moi l'envie

Sa douce odeur de mielle me tente, et je succombe

Mon cœur vaniteux est englouti par des vagues arbitraires

Allons, dansons ensemble un rondo souillé par le péché

Le temps s'écoule jusqu'à l'instant d'ouvrir les rideaux d'un théâtre dément

Le ciel du jardin miniature est magnifique, mais les ténèbres crée une cage autour de lui

Elles dévorent tout sans laisser de trace, jusqu'au plus humble de mes espoirs

Je m'abandonne à une mer de plaisirs, en quête de doux songes à rêver

Nous nous noyons encore et toujours plus vers un monde où la lumière ne nous atteint plus

Nous avons ouvert la boîte de Pandore, les aiguilles du temps ne peuvent revenir en arrière

L'avertissement des chaînes de la mort se resserre peu à peu sur nous

Il est impossible d'échapper à ce rondo sans fin

Souillés encore et encore, nous dansons comme des fous jusqu'à en avoir les jambes déchiquetées

Le ciel du jardin miniature est magnifique, mais maintenant, je ne peux plus voler vers lui

Je ne peux accepter que c'est ainsi que ce conclut mon rêve

Mes pieds commencent à disparaître, se dissolvant dans la couleur du désir

J'orne mon corps d'une croix noire, je suis prise au piège d'un monde couleur pourpre

"Oh mais pourquoi", j'aurais bon me lamenter, rien ne pourrait remonter les engrenages rouillés du temps

Péchés et châtiments, je ne peut les supporter, impardonable que je suis, ma déchéance continue

mes espoirs

Je m'abandonne à une mer de plaisirs, en quête de doux songes à rêver

Nous nous noyons encore et toujours plus vers un monde qui tourne souillé par le sang

[unveiling-bristols-havens]

Unveiling Bristol's Treasured Havens: An In-Depth Handbook for Homebuyers

Nestled in the captivating southwest of England, Bristol stands as a city seamlessly blending a storied history with a vibrant modern lifestyle. Boasting diverse neighbourhoods and distinctive character, Bristol has emerged as a sought-after destination for those seeking to own property. 

In this comprehensive guide, we'll dive into the allure and individuality of select Bristol suburbs, providing valuable insights for potential homebuyers. Whether you're enchanted by the sophistication of Clifton, drawn to the cultural dynamism of Easton, or tempted by the historical charm of Old Market, Bristol has a unique gem for every discerning buyer.

Clifton: Heritage Embraced in Elegance

For those in pursuit of a seamless blend of historical allure and upscale living, Clifton stands out as one of Bristol's premier neighbourhoods. The iconic Clifton Suspension Bridge, a marvel designed by Isambard Kingdom Brunel, serves as a majestic backdrop to this affluent suburb.

Prospective homebuyers in Clifton can anticipate not only elegant Georgian and Victorian architecture but also picturesque streets and easy access to the Clifton Village shopping area. Clifton estate agents specialise in presenting the creme de la creme of properties, ranging from spacious townhouses to luxurious apartments, offering stunning views of the Avon Gorge.

Easton: Celebrating Diversity, Shaping Culture

Reflecting Bristol's multicultural essence, Easton emerges as a vibrant and eclectic neighbourhood that encapsulates the city's diversity. The St. Mark's Road area serves as a cultural epicentre, boasting independent shops, diverse eateries, and an undeniably lively atmosphere.

Homebuyers drawn to Easton's charm can explore a diverse array of housing options, from traditional Victorian terraces to modern apartments. Well-versed in the unique character of this community, Easton estate agents assist buyers in finding a home that mirrors the neighbourhood's rich tapestry of cultures.

Southville: Bristol's Canvas of Artistry

Renowned for its artistic flair and proximity to the harborside, Southville has evolved into a sanctuary for creatives and professionals alike. The bustling North Street, the heart of Southville, features independent shops, cafes, and galleries, creating a dynamic environment for residents.

Navigating the property market in this trendy suburb, Southville estate agents provide prospective buyers with insights into prime locations for waterfront living, modern apartments, and charming terraced houses.

Knowle: Suburban Tranquility with Family Appeal

For those yearning for a serene suburban escape with a strong sense of community, Knowle proves to be an ideal fit. This family-friendly suburb boasts an array of schools, parks, and recreational facilities.

Knowle estate agents guide buyers through diverse housing options, including spacious family homes and cosy bungalows. With its green spaces and exceptional local amenities, Knowle stands as a perfect choice for those looking to establish roots in a welcoming community.

Henleaze: Tranquil Residences in Bristol's North

Nestled in Bristol's northern expanse, Henleaze offers a peaceful escape while ensuring easy access to the city centre. Characterised by tree-lined streets and proximity to the expansive Durdham Downs, Henleaze appeals to those seeking a tranquil residential atmosphere.

Specialising in showcasing properties aligned with the suburb's serene lifestyle, Henleaze estate agents offer options ranging from period homes to modern residences. Quality schools and community-focused amenities further enhance the appeal of this charming neighbourhood.

Bedminster: Urban Pulse with a Bohemian Beat

Capturing the essence of Bristol's bohemian energy and urban lifestyle, Bedminster emerges as a hotspot for creativity and community engagement. The vibrant North Street, a focal point of Bedminster, boasts street art, independent shops, and trendy cafes.

Estate agents in Bedminster, well-acquainted with the eclectic nature of the area, guide buyers through a spectrum of housing options, from converted warehouses to contemporary flats.

Bishopston: A Suburban Retreat with a Trendy Twist

Striking a balance between suburban tranquillity and a trendy, youthful atmosphere, Bishopston stands out. Gloucester Road, known for its independent shops and vibrant street scene, serves as a central feature of this diverse neighbourhood.

Bishopston estate agents cater to buyers seeking a blend of period properties and modern developments. With its proximity to green spaces and community events, Bishopston offers a welcoming environment for families and young professionals alike.

Old Market: Bridging the Past and Present

Old Market, with its historic architecture and recent regeneration efforts, represents the convergence of Bristol's past and future. Estate agents in Old Market can assist buyers in exploring a diverse range of properties, from refurbished warehouses to contemporary apartments.

The area's historical significance, coupled with its emerging cultural scene, makes Old Market an enticing prospect for those eager to invest in Bristol's evolving landscape.

Embarking on the exciting journey of purchasing property in Bristol offers a unique opportunity to discover the perfect home tailored to your lifestyle and preferences. Whether captivated by the historic allure of Clifton, the cultural diversity of Easton, or the urban vibrancy of Bedminster, Bristol's suburbs cater to every discerning buyer. 

Rely on the expertise of local Bristol estate agents to navigate the process, ensuring that your dream home in Bristol becomes a tangible reality.