#drarry vignette

[phdmama]

For the trope mash-up post, may I request Fake Dating and Soulmate AU for Drarry please, if it sparks any fun inspiration?

(P.S. you're wonderful and I will love literally anything you come up with, even if it's not for these prompts, I just got super excited when you posted this 💜)

No, YOU'RE wonderful!!

So this is what came to me - and I can actually see the rest of the story but I have to go adult for a bit, but I am going to come back later and write some more of this! (As per usual, this is pretty much SOOC and unbeta'd, etc etc.)

Draco’s known since the Final Battle. 

He’s pretty sure Potter has no idea, whether it’s that no one’s remembered to tell him about soulmates, or that his mark hasn’t activated yet, but he treats Draco exactly the way he’s treated him since they'd all arrived at University. He’s unfailingly polite, cool and distanced, and deeply disinterested in one Draco Malfoy.

Which isn’t, you know, how you’re supposed to treat your soulmate.

The thumbprint on Draco’s wrist had flared to life when Potter had grabbed his arm to haul him onto the back of the battered broom that carried them both out of the fire. He’d almost fallen off at the way Potter’s magic had rushed over him, through him. Draco had always heard the stories that connecting with your soulmate could be disorienting, but since it happened to him in the midst of mortal terror, Draco’s not sure his experience was typical.

It’s also very rare that one person connects and the other doesn’t, although it does happen. It takes time for the bond to solidify, to grow into a true soulmate connection, and obviously, that’s not happened here. Basically, Potter is a faint echo in Draco’s mind, enough to distract and ache a little, nothing more than that.

All this to say, it’s weird when Potter comes dashing into their suite common room one Saturday afternoon, looking wild-eyed and somewhat disheveled. It’s a rainy day, raw and windy, the kind of day where Draco does not plan to leave the building if he can help it. Potter is damp and windblown, so he clearly had other ideas. Fucking weirdo.

Potter looks around wildly, and lights up when he spots Draco curled up on the couch under his favorite striped blanket.

“Malfoy,” he says eagerly, and Draco blinks up at him in surprise.

Potter’s never sounded happy to see Draco before.

“Yes?” Draco says cautiously. “Can I help you?”

Potter nods vigorously. “You can, yes, absolutely. I need you to pretend to be my soulmate and go to the gala with me tonight.”

“I beg your pardon?” Draco asks, trying to make sense of the words he’s just heard. “You need me to what?”

Potter hangs his coat on the rack by the door, kicks off his grubby trainers and makes his way around the couch to plop down next to Draco.

“I need you to pretend to be my soulmate and go to the gala with me tonight.”

“That’s what I thought you said,” Draco says. “But also, what the fuck are you talking about?”

Potter sighs, lets his head rest on the back of the couch and runs a hand through his unruly hair.

“You know how the press…” his voice trails off and he flushes.

“Follows you around incessantly and makes your life a living hell?” Draco says dryly. “Yes, Potter, I’m aware.”

“Well, someone thought it was a good idea to advertise that I haven’t found my soulmate, and to suggest that anyone who’s unbonded should come to the gala tonight and you know. Shoot their shot or whatever.”

Draco sits bolt upright, outraged. “What the hell? That’s bullshit. That’s not even how it works!”

Potter just sighs again and slumps down even further, eyes closed. “Yeah, I know that, but it’s turned into this whole thing, and every girl in the greater Oxford area, apparently, is now coming to the gala.”

“Can’t you just… not go?” 

Potter shakes his head, looking miserable. “No. The Fund is really important to me. I promised to speak.”

“So your solution is to fake a soulmate bond with a man?” Draco asks and Potter snorts.

“Okay, well, when you put it like that, it does sound stupid. I just thought if I could get them all off my back for a bit… No, you’re right. I’ll just have to get a bodyguard again, I guess.”  

He sounds so utterly miserable that Draco can’t help but feel sorry for him, which is why he finds himself saying, “Yeah, I’ll do it.”

Potter opens his eyes to stare at Draco. “What?”

Draco shrugs. “I’m not doing anything tonight, there’ll be wine at the gala, yeah?”

Potter looks excited but then his face falls. “But what about your soulmate? What if they’re out there looking for you?”

Draco looks away and swallows. “That won’t be a problem.”

Potter’s eyes narrow. “Why not?” He sucks in a breath and whispers, “Malfoy, do you know who your soulmate is?”

Draco just nods and there’s a long silence while Potter clearly puts some picture together in his head. He’s never been stupid, Draco concedes. Since for all intents and purposes, Draco is unbonded, Potter must know there’s something wrong with all of it.

Finally Potter says, “If you’re sure.”

“I’m sure,” Draco says and finally turns to look at Potter. “It’ll be fun,” he says carelessly. “What should I wear?”

[phdmama]

DUDE DUDE DUDE DUDE OMG

"Can you stop saying "die"?!" Harry said exasperatedly.

Laughed out loud but then,

"You love it already, Potter," he said loftily. "You love everything you save."

Wow you really did that huh. You really just chose to punch me RIGHT in my feelings???

In all seriousness, this is spectacular and I adore it1

Saviour and His Saved

It had been thirteen months and three weeks since Harry had found, and saved, Malfoy from a dark, icy corner in the crooked streets of Knockturn Alley.

For thirteen months, Malfoy had not stepped foot outside of Harry's cottage. He'd spent his time sleeping, ignoring Harry, reading his way through Harry's modest book-collection, making sullen conversation with Harry, and teaching himself to cook.

It hadn't been a bad thirteen months, Harry thought. He ate a lot better now. Malfoy too. The sour, skinny git had actually turned out to be a pretty good cook and baker.

Harry couldn't complain about his life. He left that to Ron, who still bemoaned the fact that Harry had brought home a stray Malfoy and kept him and even occasionally bought him a new book or a new jumper. Harry didn't mind. It was more than worth it to see Malfoy's thin, dull face brighten.

After months, Malfoy had begun going out on walks by himself every evening. The first time he'd gone, it was after yet another shouting match with Harry and to Harry's utter shock he'd stormed out of the house, slamming the door behind himself.

He'd been sure Malfoy wouldn't return and had spent the whole evening with his stomach churning with something awful, thinking about going back to a life without that grumpy fuck.

But then, just as the sun had set, Malfoy scurried in through the small, arched front gate, his cloak held closed around himself.

Harry planted himself before the front door, fists clenched, and prepared to yell some more, this time about Malfoy just leaving him. Then, Malfoy burst in, looking around wildly, and had proceeded to produce a baby bunny from under his cloak.

"What," said Harry.

"We have to save it!" Malfoy shouted, as if he was about to sacrifice his own life or something.

They bathed and fed it. Harry firecalled Hermione to ask her about raising baby bunnies. Malfoy named it Buttercup. That was three weeks ago.

Harry now sat with Buttercup the bunny on a bundled up blanket next to him on the sofa, a mournful, old, and partially deaf bloodhound that Malfoy had met on his way back from the shops and brought home sitting by his feet, and a cat with one eye missing curled up on a cushion on the windowsill. The bloodhound, Malfoy had named Wilson, and Harry had the uncomfortable, nagging suspicion that Malfoy had actually stolen some careless sod's old dog with the firm belief that it was an underfed stray. The one-eyed cat, Malfoy had permitted Harry to name, and had immediately regretted it when Harry had named him Mad-Eye.

Harry now saw Malfoy appear at the gate and pass through it inside, his gait as hurried as ever, as if permanently late to be somewhere. Then Malfoy let himself in, saw Harry sitting and staring at him from the sofa, and turned away towards the stairs, his cloak bundled around himself.

"Where are you going?" asked Harry at once.

Malfoy scowled. "To take a piss. Merlin."

"What's that?" Harry asked suspiciously, getting to his feet.

"What's what?!" Malfoy snapped, still not fully emerging from under his cloak.

"What do you have there?" Harry pressed, walking up to him and plucking at his cloak.

Malfoy took a step back, his cheeks pink. "Nothing. What do you mean?!"

"What's under there this time, Malfoy?" Harry asked wearily. "Not another rabbit. The dog keeps trying to eat the first one."

"Wilson's not going to eat Buttercup, don't be an idiot," Malfoy said, impatient and rude as ever.

"What do you have?" Harry said loudly, tugging at Malfoy's cloak more forcefully.

Malfoy opened his mouth to protest, jerking farther away from Harry, when there was a tiny, very shrill mew.

Malfoy froze, eyes huge in his face. Harry's mouth fell open and he tugged, yet again, at Malfoy's cloak.

It fell away to reveal an extremely small, very dirty white kitten held carefully in Malfoy's bony hands. It was shivering uncontrollably, and continuously emitted small, pitiful meeps.

"You want me to leave it outside to die?!" Malfoy burst out before Harry could even say anything. "You want it to die?!"

"No, but--"

"Well, you make me take it away and it's going to die, Potter."

"Malfoy, I'm not--"

"It needs a home, and your stupid house is so big, and we can save it before it dies."

"Can you stop saying "die"?!" Harry said exasperatedly.

"If you make me take it back, I'm going with it," Malfoy said, jutting his pointy chin out at Harry.

That made Harry grin - because Malfoy was threatening to leave with the sort of confidence that one has when they know they would never be allowed to go.

And that made Harry's tummy flutter happily for some reason.

"Well, in that case, I'd better let you keep it," he said solemnly. "What would I do without you, Malfoy?"

Malfoy's face, already tinged pink, now turned scarlet. Shoulders rounding inwards a bit, Malfoy looked down at the raggedy kitten before sticking his nose up in the air.

"You love it already, Potter," he said loftily. "You love everything you save."

Then, as he processed what he'd just said, Malfoy's face turned so hot that he looked faint for a second.

Then he hurried away into the kitchen, cloak billowing behind him, calling out over his shoulder,

"Clean towels and tic medicine, if you please, Potter."

Grinning, Harry went upstairs obediently. He had a kitten to save and a whole lot more to love.

[magpiefngrl]

halfway through 2024 book review

June isn't over yet but I'm looking at a couple of very busy weeks so it's unlikely I'll read a gazillion new books or something by end of month. So we do this now!

books I enjoyed so far

Aliette de Bodard's Dominion of the Fallen series, set in a post-apocalyptic Paris with fallen angels and magic and dragons in the Seine. I didn't quite love the three main novels, but I enjoyed how unique the world-building was. However, I REALLY loved the last two novellas about Asmodeus and his husband Thuan, who are a delicious pairing. The novellas are: Of Charms, Ghosts and Grievances and Of Dragons, Feasts and Murders.

Pacat's Dark Heir, which I enjoyed so much that I went back to reread Dark Rise and then again, Dark Heir. I liked the second novel a lot more than the first (and I actually ended up appreciating the first novel more on my reread). Needless to say, I am very, very impatient about the end of the series.

A Nobleman's Guide to Seducing a Scoundrel. KJC has done it again. The sequel to her Doomsday Books series is fantastic, with a vivid cast, an excellent main pairing, and superb pacing. Couldn't put it down. A great historical m/m romance.

The Warrior's Apprentice by Lois McMaster Bujold. I'd heard a lot about Miles and it was fun seeing him bullshit his way across the galaxy.

The Mountains of Mourning by Lois McMaster Bujold. A novella in the Vorkosigan saga. Very touching and emotional and a great character study of Miles. Really loved this.

Newcomer by Keigo Higashino. This dude is seriously amazing at crafting unusual murder mysteries. This one is structured as vignettes of shop-owners in a Tokyo neighbourhood and, as the stories progress, more light is shed on the mystery of a strangled woman.

Faithful Place and The Secret Place by Tana French. Fantastic prose, absorbing murder mysteries that are more like deep character studies as well as an incisive portrait of contemporary Ireland.

The Lady of the Lake by Andrzej Sapkowski. This is pretty grim at times, ngl, but it has a daring structure with lots of POVs, switching between numerous timelines, a frame device, lots of found materials (essays and chapters from fictional books). All that worked for me very well. I love some experimentation with craft. I wouldn't say it was my fave read, but I'm happy that I finally reached the end; completing a series always gives me a dopamine rush so yay

progress on my reading goals

A reminder that my two goals for the year are:

to read (some or all of) the Vorkosigan saga

to read less or no US authors

I'm doing pretty well on those two scores. Read a few installments of the Vorkosigan saga, and (besides Bujold and a poetry anthology by Maggie Smith) have read no other US-based authors. My intention was to diversify my reading and, indeed, so far, I've read French, Japanese, Polish, UK, Australian, Irish, and currently reading a Ukrainian author.

fics I loved

I've not read as many books as I normally do so far, esp in the last couple of months, but I read a lot more fic than recent years. I've read some fab stuff in a variety of fandoms. The fics I'm going to rec below are the longer ones that I read on my ereader:

Tarnished Gold by Prim_the_Amazing (bingqiu/svsss, M, 118k) Inventive premise. Couldn't put it down.

Memory (T, 23k) and Out of the Dead Land (M, 62k), both stucky, both orphaned by one of my top authors ever. The second one gave me the worst fic hangover I had in ages. I had to go and rewatch Captain America.

contrapasso by damagecontrol (jegulus, E, 41k) Very horny. I like that.

Fire Burn and Caldron Bubble by pastapug (jegulus, E, 40k) Lush language, fascinating setting.

Beholden by Faith Wood (faithwood) (drarry, E, 123k) Gave me all the drarry feels.

Shout out to @hoko-onchi-writes's WIP: To Hold You in the Earth's Unholy Din, which I am loving <3

That's all, folks. Here's hoping for more wonderful reads till December!

[thedrarrylibrarian]

I know I always say this, but it’s always true - I am so excited for this month’s guest reccer! To say that Grace, who writes as @mintawasalreadytaken, has excellent taste would be an understatement - she is a tastemaker. I realized as I was looking through a server that we’re both in that I read Coyote Ugly (which I recced a few weeks ago) based on her recommendation first! She’s also an accomplished writer herself, so if you like her rec, be sure to check out her works.

I leave the format of the rec up to the guest reccer - sometimes people use emojis, sometimes they give the rec as bullet points, and sometimes people prefer to write paragraphs. Grace asked if we could have a conversation about this fic together, and I eagerly agreed! I’ll be TDL below, and she’ll be Grace. Just as a heads up, there are minor spoilers for the fic below the cut.

Without further ado, I present the May Happy Hour Recommendation - in conversation with @mintawasalreadytaken!

I Do Not Love You by @writandromance (228,290 words, Rated M)

In 2013, a carefully-designed Obliviation leaves Harry reconfiguring his life and identity without any memories of true love; an act that's essentially erased Draco Malfoy from his mind despite a wedding band and shared home.

In 2000, Draco had expected Pansy's relationship with Luna to bring the Gryffindors a bit closer to his orbit of quiet, carefully pacifistic existence, but he never expected to navigate such a transparent embrace into a unit of family, friendship, and love.

A mystery, two love stories, and a reminder that learning to love never has an end date.

TDL: You picked I Do Not Love You for this month's rec. Would you start by telling people who have never read it why they should give it a try?

Grace: I think I speak for a lot of us in the world of fanfiction, specifically Drarry fanfic, that we're not generally known for being chill about our obsessions. So, as someone who's read a lot of hurt/comfort and angst, I Do Not Love You stands out to me because it does a number of interesting things with its key trope, amnesia. It's a love story told backwards, and a love story that's as much about hate and how hate destroys as it is about love and how love builds.

TDL: I appreciate that you brought up the love story told backwards - I think that's one of the best parts of this story. The way, especially at the beginning, that the two plot-lines contrast makes it stand out to the reader about what Harry's lost, even when Harry himself doesn't realize.

Grace: Mmhmm, agreed. We start very firmly rooted in Harry's POV, with an eventual back and forth POVs between Harry and Draco, at opposite ends of the timeline of their relationship. So there's this wonderful tension there, right from go.

TDL: I think that's something very smart and enjoyable about Writ's writing. She's very good at creating that tension and then trusting the reader with it. She’s excellent at showing one perspective, and letting the reader infer the other perspective. It would've been easy to write from Draco's POV and get all of his angsty heartbreak firsthand, but instead she writes it from Harry's POV and we get his anger and are left to come to our own conclusions about Draco's hurt. It makes the conclusions more powerful to the reader.

Grace: Trusting the reader is certainly one of her strengths. Part of my deep enjoyment of this fic is how it begs to be re-read. It's only on the re-read that certain details, "tells" in Draco's behaviour, for example, become clear indicators of what will happen. But you need to learn them from Harry's POV first. It makes for a very fun circular read, in that way. Another way that trust is established masterfully is the contrast between Harry's anger in the present and the vignettes of his empathetic, whole-hearted earnestness in the flashback scenes. The distance between the two Harry's emotional states is enough for the reader to draw their own conclusions of how much it must pain Draco to go through this experience.

Though I will say, the angsty heartbreak moment we do get to see firsthand gets me every time. It's the most delicious stab in the heart!

TDL: I know it’s a spoiler, but will you be specific? What part exactly are you thinking of?

Grace: “I lost my husband.”

TDL: I put that quote down in my notes too - and "I didn't even get to say goodbye."

Grace: It gets to the heart of the worst part of a beautiful relationship: the fear of loss.

TDL: So we've done our favorite angsty moments. This fic, while angsty, is also really full of fun and funny moments. Does anything stick out to you along those lines?

Grace: Two stick out to me immediately. One is a callback to the Pablo Neruda quote off the top, from which the fic takes its title. "Your hand on my chest is my hand,” only Harry adds his own sexy twist to it, lol. The second is this incredibly tense moment mid-fight where Harry snaps about how long it would take to fall back in love with Draco and Draco's deadpan response of "You said 'when'" which is peak Drarry to me. That stubbornness in the face of literally anything, even the other avowing their supposed hatred.

What's your favourite funny moment?

TDL: Oh it’s got to be when we find out later that Pansy laughed at the toothbrush incident. It's just such a best friend thing to do. It felt like something I'd do to my sister or that she'd do to me and I think it added a realness to their friendship. They’re ride or die for each other, but they also laugh at each other, even in the hard times. I also love any scene Jules is in!

Grace: Agreed! The toothbrush moment was hilarious. And Jules is one of my favourite of Harry's familiars/pets-with-speaking-roles, ever.

TDL: I'm obsessed with the idea of a chameleon speaking Parseltongue! I also feel like Jules' character had a lot of thought put into it - what would be important to a chameleon? What would a chameleon notice and think in this situation?

Grace: Yes, his take on death and his sense of humour about it – that bonds Harry to him. The lens of his understanding of the relationship between Harry and his "ice queen" and the purpose of molting. It was all so well done. The fact that Jules can infer Harry's emotional state and then decides on whether and to what degree to argue about what kind of feed he requests is so spot on. Amazing characterization work.

TDL: With all of Harry and Draco’s friends and family, this fic had an ensemble of characters. Were there any other favorites?

Grace: My two favourites live on opposite sides of the spectrum. Ron, for his stoic, constant style of quiet and level-headed support. And Blaise, a true wild-card, who is ruled enough by ego to do things that endanger his relationships with both Harry and Draco, just never too much. They love him for it, even though he can be a chaos monster.

TDL: Blaise was on my list too! I thought his shenanigans brought a lot to the fic and I thought it was cool to see him portrayed as an equally important friend to both Harry and Draco that Harry saw him as someone to turn to for help, not just “Draco’s friend” but “my friend.”

Grace: The melding of friend groups, as most often happens when you're in a long term relationship, was done masterfully here. and the lines drawn in the sand becoming murky in places and crystal clear in others when a break-up looms, too.

TDL: Which brings us back to that relatable fear of loss - this loss is not just one person but friendships, community, a life and a future.

Something else that I want to mention is how immersive this fic is, even in a re-read. I knew what was coming and was still hooked.

Grace: True! It begins with a focus on interiority. We get the emotional punches first, and then the plot to underpin it. But in my view, the plot comes second to the feelings. It's a fic that invites you as the reader to put yourself into Draco's shoes. We all experience loss and so when we get thrown into this situation of experiencing what, for both of them, they consider a world-ending loss, we relate. The troubles only begin there, because after that there's still waking up every day and trying, again and again.

TDL: For a fic whose title refuses love, what better description is there for love than waking up every day and trying, again and again.

Is there anything else you’d like to add before we end this rec?

Grace: Just to say thank you for entertaining this, and for your thoughtful questions! And to thank Writ for writing this masterpiece of a painful, quietly beautiful love story. And to end on a quote – one of the ones I come back to constantly, as a reminder to self of the usefulness in trying at the things we find the most difficult: 

"Aw, don't get smart to wash off all the vulnerability, you wore it so well," he replied, eyes sparkling. As he backed towards the doorway, his arms opened wide. "Bask in the beauty of a difficult, emotional conversation." 

xoxo minta / grace

❤️ As always, if you enjoy this rec, please bookmark abd leave the author a kudos or a comment! ❤️

Lots of Love and Happy Friday!

PS - If you're interested in knowing what Grace and I are reading next, @writandromance just started posting a new Pride and Prejudice based fic. It's not complete, but chapter one went up today and we are so excited!

[sitp-recs]

Another year is almost over, and what a year this was for the Drarry community! This list is a “thank you” to everyone’s continuous patience and support during my recent break. I considered not doing anything but in the end I got some free time and didn’t have the heart to break tradition. So here it is, my last reclist of the year showing I’ve actually read A LOT in the first semester alone lol. I did my best to include different tropes and lengths, popular works and hidden gems. As a side note there are no Erised works in here, as the fest is still going on and authors are yet to be revealed. Classic disclaimer goes “pls mind the tags, this is not intended as the ultimate reclist etc etc.” It’s a personal selection based on my tastes and preferences; the idea is to celebrate these fantastic works and their beloved creators. This fandom keeps on giving and I’m so happy to be part of it. Enjoy, give these some love and see you next year!🥂

Drarry:

Without Sunshine by @sweet-s0rr0w (T, 1k) 

Trust SS to come back from a writing break with this banger, holy shit. Brilliant concept, perfect execution. I can’t believe this is only 1k, there’s so much build up and details I wanna learn more about. This tender and urgent apocalyptic AU will steal your heart with perfect vibes and the softest flower shop romance.

Receipts by @moonflower-rose (M, 2k)

Rosie never fails to blow my mind with her creative mind and brilliant sense of humor. This is the perfect bite-size snack, hilarious and so very sweet. I am obsessed with Draco & Pansy’s brOTP, their banter made me laugh out loud and we are treated with Drarry and Ginsy! Here’s your next read if you’re looking for something short, sexy and witty. You’re welcome 💅

Bright Side by @floydig (T, 2k)

Floyd is another master of short form and here’s why. This series of vignettes made my heart ache for these two broken boys finding their place - and each other - in he war aftermath. I’m impressed by how sharp, nuanced and sensorial this is. The heat! The humidity! Love the strong sense of place, it’s so intimate it feels like you’re intruding into something private and special.

Willing Blood by @lqtraintracks and @the-starryknight (E, 2k)

This iconic duo tailored a short yet intense creature fic dripping UST and gorgeous characterization as per. The way Harry and Draco are drawn by - and crave - each other left me salivating, I’m feral for their dynamics. Ultimate power couple vibes (reluctant Draco + fearless Harry make such a great match!) and great evocative 1st person POV.

The Mating Habits of Snidgets by @shealynn88 (G, 3.5k)

I can’t believe this doesn’t have more comments, such a lovely hidden gem. I found it when I needed a soft read before taking a break, and have been thinking about “am I your little bird, then?” since. Quidditch rivals to lovers is becoming my kryptonite and this story does a great job exploring what brings them together despite their social gap. The character development is so good this feels like a 30k story packed within 3.5k.

Magpie by @corvuscrowned (E, 4k)

If you ever have to choose a dark!Harry fic to read, I urge you to go with this one. His klepto characterization is so damn lush and compelling I was half terrified half turned on the whole time 😔✌🏼Thanks to Crow’s masterful and addictive writing, there’s no possible way to resist his charm when it comes with razor sharp dialogue and sexy power dynamics. Come collect my jaw on the floor pls

No Distance by @skeptiquewrites (E, 4.8k)

Is it fair to include a sequel in order to make everyone go read this fabulous verse? Who cares, not me 🤷🏻‍♀️ Tee’s way of writing Drarry always leaves me aching for this kind of love. Their longing for each other is strong but unhurried, the dialogue is fantastic (the nose piercing exchange!) and the smutty scenes hit all my boxes. The characters feel so lovely, tangible and relatable as real people. I will never get enough of this verse, no matter when or where they are, as long as they’re together.

An Emerald In The Sky by @corvuscrowned (M, 6.6k)

My favorite read of the year - as you probably already know since I haven’t stopped screaming about it. My heart belongs to this breathtaking Draco, so full of yearning and melancholy, as he falls in love with time traveller Harry and wonders if they’ll ever get to be on the same page. The astronomy motif only makes it all even more poetic and devastating (but in a cathartic, hopeful way!). This hurts as much as falling in love and I wanna wrap myself in this fic and never let go.

Per my last letter (I hope you choke on it) by @fluxweeed and @lastontheboat (T, 10k)

Possibly the funniest thing I’ve read all year, which is not surprising considering flux’s inimitable brand when it comes to humor. This epistolary slow burn is light and creative and such a delight. I got immediately attached to the characters and giggled my way through Drarry’s banter; special kudos to Harry’s amazing crew and their perfect spot-on voices. An adorable comfort fic to be revisited at all times!

Witness Marks by @gryffindorhearts (M, 15k)

After so many excellent vampire fics this year, it’s getting hard to resist this trope. Here’s a quiet and atmospheric gem that made me fall hard for clockmaker!Draco. Such an original concept! I adore the lore behind his job, his strained relationship with Lucius, the way he’s pulled towards mysterious Auror Harry. Also- the flirting and sexual tension at the Tate Magique?!! Chefs kiss

Yours Truly by @skeptiquewrites (M, 15k)

It’s getting impossible to choose a Tee favorite, my god. Go check her brilliant microfics then come feast on this stunning take on fake dating, choke-full of light humor, found family feels and wonderful world building. Smooth pacing, phenomenal cast, have I mentioned Draco’s into magical ecology?! My favorite kind of slow burn, sweet, tentative, heartwarming and so damn romantic.

Take the Moon by @tackytigerfic (M, 15k)

The perfect kid fic exists and I can prove it! Nothing leaves me aching and raw open like Tacky’s Harry with his soft, gentle yearning for hot dad Draco. I’m so in love with his love, I could actually feel my chest expand with this series of incredibly tender and precious moments of friendship, complicity and domesticity many couples will never experience. Extra bonus points for the SEXIEST non-explicit smut and the brilliant commentary on the autistic spectrum, especially related to kids. My whole kingdom for little Scorpius 👑

With Hands Full of Dusk by @corvuscrowned (E, 15k)

Yes I’m proposing to Crow after posting this because I suddenly feel exposed with 3 recs 😳 hands down the best case fic I’ve read this year, I’m obsessed with Drarry as creature hunters and the suspense-y vibes here. The slow burn is mature and thought-provoking, heavy with a deep sense of loneliness and so evocative it hit me just right. This story is sharp but also strangely comforting, a perfect read for a rainy or foggy day. I wish I could bask in its atmosphere for the first time, over and over again.

Preserving Lemons by @saintgarbanzo, art by @ihopeyoubothstaysafefromharm (E, 17k)

I’m so happy I found the time to check this one fic from Fan Fair because this was a truly special read, surprising in the best ways and very cathartic. The gorgeous prose finds a perfect tone between sexy and contemplative bringing food, gender, racial and political discussions together in a coherent and powerful way I wouldn’t think possible for a 17k fic. Loved seeing Harry and Draco so open and vulnerable, experiencing who they really are together. Lush, powerful and healing.

Heartlines by @sorrybutblog (T, 22k)

One of my first reads this year remains a iota fave, this was so much fun and so charming. A delightful case fic combining sentient house, Auror Harry, smitten Draco, everything we deserve. The best thing is the surprisingly clever and charming humour, it made me giggle at the most unexpected times, giving the suspense a light tone I can’t get enough of. Despite the underlying tension, this will make you smile from beginning to end.

What Makes a House a Home by @writcraft (E, 27k)

The only Drarry fic Writ writes this year ends up being a banger, figures 🙌 honestly this is a masterclass in tension building with a gorgeous take on recluse!Harry and delicious slow burn. It was so cool to learn more about this Harry through Draco’s curious eyes, as the forced proximity pushes them together. Sexy adult dynamics and compelling characters, right up my alley!

At the Doorway, On the Stair by dwell_the_brave and @p1013 (T, 30k)

I love myself a good mystery fic and this was such a nice surprise, so very spooky and immersive. The author did a fantastic job creating an intriguing atmosphere while advancing the plot, I was at the edge of my seat trying to figure things out while falling in love with “ghost” Draco as he tried to help Harry along the way. Excellent slow burn and a gorgeous setting that will lure you in!

Eager for the Sky by @oknowkiss (M, 35k)

This list wouldn’t be complete without a classic 8th year and here’s my 2022 pick by this author whose talent and range blows my mind. This fic pulled me back from my fandom break quite violently; I ate it up in one night and was immediately taken by their Quidditch rivalry and achingly sweet romance. The Drarry journey is so very wholesome it filled me with wonder and nostalgia for my teenage years. Being the multishipper I am, the brief nod to Harry/Ron at the end was just my kind of extra treat!

Rush (For A Gap That Exists) by @sleepstxtic-drarry (M, 42k)

I never thought I’d get obsessed with a F1 AU but here we are. Another incredible ride that pulled me in with impressive, detailed world building and sexual tension so insanely electric it was hard to resist. Brilliant movie adaptation keeping the Drarry dynamics recognizable with sexy and complicated UST. I’ve also loved the interesting storytelling format and exciting twists which kept me at the edge of my seat.

Heal Thyself by astolat (T, 47k)

This fic requires no introduction, I imagine everyone has read it by now. Once again Astolat slaps us in the face with her superior storytelling skills, effortlessly building this rich and compelling magical healing universe told from this brilliant Draco POV. His arc is a triumph, his voice perfectly spot-on, sharp but charming, proud and bratty and competent in ways that made me very emo. This has become an instant Healer!Draco classic and has one of my all-time favorite characterizations. A masterpiece to be thought of - and talked about - for years to come.

Vis-à-Vis-à-Vis by @vukovich (E, 50k)

I wasn’t prepared for how immersive and exciting this would be, what a ride! The secret identity motif and case fic atmosphere got me immediately hooked, I couldn’t get enough of those perfect cat-mouse dynamics, the thrilling twists, the delicious pining and the intense, hot smut I deserve 🤌🏼 Vuk’s narrative voice is a delight, lush, full of personality and with an easy humor that makes this story even more surprising and remarkable.

what husbands are for by @softlystarstruck (E, 52k)

Yet another charming creature fic I’ve read in one sitting, this has the most wonderful sloooow burn - with lots of tension and non-sexual intimacy - and some great world building full of interesting lore and political shenanigans about vampire & wolf verse that I found quite interesting. I’m fascinated by fashionista and prosthetic artist Draco, such a cool job idea! A refreshing take on “enemies to friends to lovers” with Bee’s soft & sweet trademark.

Meet Me at Midnight by @the-starryknight (T, 57k)

I’ve been in love with Starry’s work for so long, and they still render me speechless when a new fics comes out. MMM is the most creative and cathartic fic I’ve read this year. This jaded craftsman Harry holds my heart in his hands, and the impressive amount of world building and lore behind the Dreamwalker figure sets an enchanting atmosphere. The settings are vivid and immersive, the slow burn so very tender and romantic it left me aching. And Teddy is absolutely perfect which is a big bonus on my book since I love him so much. This is a heartfelt love letter to every creator out there struggling with burnout. Here you’ll find hope, healing, and resistance to start 2023 the right way.

The Trouble with Wanting by waldorph (E, 60k)

Draco fans, rejoice! Those who adore a convincing posh and quirky characterization need to check this brilliant rendition asap. Positively Slytherin with its mischievous charm, this is fun and sexy af. Love myself a good old Draco-centric story following his post-war journey until he finds Harry his place in the new order. The Silver Trio is an absolute delight and this smitten Harry instantly found his way into my (and Draco’s) heart. One of the best get together fics I’ve read in the past few years.

9 ½ Days by @magpiefngrl (E, 69k)

Technically I’m cheating since this is from 2017, but I want to take a minute to appreciate Magpie’s generosity and hard work finishing this even after going on a Drarry break. One of my all-time faves when it comes to canon divergent war fics, the flawless narrative combines an urgent and dangerous “on the run” atmosphere with the softest teenage love, gentle, charming and tentative. It was bittersweet to see their journey coming to an end but this adventure was so well done and the ending was so emotionally satisfying, I can’t rec it enough.

Kept in Cages by @sweet-s0rr0w and @ihopeyoubothstaysafefromharm (E, 76k)

An epic Drarry romance mixing two tropes we all love: down & out Draco and magical creatures! This fic is very creative with a rich and detailed world building, and also many interesting and charming creatures. SS brings her tender melancholy trademark and an intriguing subplot involving Draco’s parents that I found very engaging. I loved this lonely Draco arc, his quirky personality and all the little things that make him strong and proud instead of meek and pitiful. Joy’s artwork is a masterpiece on its own and helps bringing this beautiful, magical universe into life.

A Case of You by @epitomereally (E, 97k)

This lovely reunion fic combines so many of my favorite tropes it felt like a special treat for me. Case fic, break up/make up, Unspeakable Draco, non-linear narrative, forced proximity, sparking sexual tension, what a feast! I found myself invested in both timelines, waiting for those beautiful, competent and stupid men to get their shit together and become the power couple we deserve. The pacing and character development are so smooth this barely feels like 100k, and have I mentioned how hot bossy Harry is? Oof!

In the Bleak Midwinter by @the-fools-errand (E, 105k)

Once again this author takes my breath away with another excellent, refreshing and exciting AU - this time based on Peaky Blinders - and I’m so impressed by the inventive world building here. Not only it expands to accommodate a huge cast, but also translates every little detail into the HP universe. Gripping narrative, clever plot, delicious enemies-to-lovers sexual tension and a heartbreaking Sirius arc that will hit you right in the solar plexus. You can’t go wrong with this author’s AUs, 10/10 recommend.

When Times are Dire by @aibidil (E, 130k)

I’ve been following this fake marriage epic since it first started posting and was super excited to see it being finished this year. Trust aibidil to do older!Drarry justice: their witty personalities, fond camaraderie and clever dialogue serve impeccable friends-to-lovers dynamics. I’m so into this brand of old couple domesticity and their exchanges with the grown-up kids are sweet and fun. Perfect balance of light humor, found family vibes, sweet romance and sexy times, this story has everything!

Rarepairs:

Mischief Managed by @maesterchill (E, 1.7k) - Harry/Sirius

Few things left me as emotional as this perfect gift that marked Em’s first (and maesterful! ha!) exploration of this ship. The way she grasped everything that hits me right in the feels is almost terrifying: it’s as if she looked into the most vulnerable parts of my brain and went “hmm tender devotion, idyllic aesthetics, foreplay, cute endearments, filthy wall sex, happy ending”👩‍🍳 and put together this light, sexy, fun and wonderfully hopeful smutty short that made me cry at the spot. Don’t forget to check the equally lush and self-indulgent sequel here!

Weather Warning by @sweet-s0rr0w (T, 1.7k) - Draco/Albus 

One of the best, most refreshing takes I’ve ever seen on this ship, this is so very different from your usual age gap tone and vibe, and I’m here for it. I was immediately charmed by their voices and light yet charged dynamics, T-rated but still holding so much heat and promise. This short leaves a strong impression and will make you crave for more ;) it’s also the perfect way to be introduced to this ship, come along and satisfy your curiosity!

Coming Up for Air by @lqtraintracks (M, 2k) - Harry/Teddy

*sigh* the amount of times I’ve read and cried over this stunning Harry/Teddy romance... this fic means so much to me because it was written by the one who set the foundation for how I see this ship, my favorite rarepair ship, so many years ago. With an incredible amount of character and feeling packed within 2k, this has the flavor of mutual devotion I yearn for, and a tormented Harry being loved and seen by this wise, generous and understanding Teddy, as they find their way back to each other. It doesn’t get any better than this!

Like A Brother Would by @wolfpants (E, 5k) - Harry/Ron

Tent sex my beloved! Another rarepair master, Wolf delivers everything I love the most about this ship - the easy familiarity, the tenderness and quiet devotion, the shared understanding and delicious sexual exploration amidst war chaos. It’s painfully clear how much they care about each other. Hung service top Ron is a sight to behold and I wonder how such a short fic was able to convey the depth of their trust and connection. Oh, to be young and feel love's keen sting… *Dumbledore’s voice*

Green Light by @sorrybutblog (E, 6k) - Ginny/Hermione

I got obsessed with Ginny/Hermione very recently and this was my first venture into this ship - not gonna lie, it was so much more than I had expected. Don’t let the (deliciously hot and self-indulgent - as it should be!!!) smutty tags distract you, this has fascinating dream-like summer vibes and perfect characterization, with spot on voices and a light tone of mirth and freedom that made my heart smile. Living for the edging and the “no one’s cheating everyone’s getting laid” tags 💦

The Hollow by @wolfpants (E, 12k) - Draco/Remus

This ship had never even crossed my mind before and here I am, utterly obsessed with this verse Wolf created so masterfully. Poignant and devastating, this fic has such a compelling narrative. My jaw was on the floor as the story went on and both characters revealed their layers through sexy smut and heartbreaking melancholy. There’s so much nuance to them, so much yearning and pain bringing them together and informing their decisions. Trust me when I say Drarry and Wolfstar fans will also adore this!

Still the pine-woods scent the moon by @fluxweeed (E, 15k) - Harry/Remus

I rarely read fics featuring Remus but both Flux and Wolf decided to slap me in the face with hot daddy vibes, and who am I to say no? Hands down one of the hottest, most erotic things I’ve read this year, a masterclass in UST that had my heart racing in anticipation. Scorching smut and a mesmerizing Harry desperate to be seen and treated right. I love how easily they fit together, I was immediately sold on this rare pair. Don’t read this at family dinner kids, you’ve been warned!

A Life Worth Remembering by @writcraft (E, 23k) - Established Drarry + Severus

Never thought I’d read this triad with de-aged Snape but watching his delightfully stubborn young version trying to resist those hot daddies was way too satisfying. This fic surprised me in so many ways, especially in tone and characterization. I love how their dynamics are slowly established here; Severus’ POV actually delivers not 1 but 3 superb character studies and we get to see how loving Harry changes these two difficult men and brings them all together. A nuanced and adult portrayal of open relationships, this is a must read for anyone who’s into voyeurism intrigued by this triad.

just call this what it is by @queenscrown (M, 27k) - Harry/Draco/Theo

The softest poly fic you’ll read today, this 8th year triad was based on this art by @t4tdrarry​ and celebrates wholesome friendships and gentle healing. Harry, Draco and Theo come together first as friends then as lovers in such an organic, uncomplicated way I wanted to live inside this verse. Love their easy banter, Harry’s sass (!), his camaraderie with Hermione and the way she helps him figure things out. A sweet and comforting hidden gem that deserves more readers and love.

you will burn right now but then you won't regret it by @thistlecatfics, art by SecondSilk and @veelawings - Fleur/Tonks

I’d never expect to find such a complete fic for this rare pair (which I admit I haven’t explored much), this was an absolute feast bringing together fascinating characters (love this badass Fleur!), politics and A+ family drama. I loved this deep dive into the Black family - so much angst, so much plot! Complicated and heartbreaking, this is a a wonderful exploration of trauma and a treat for any femslash fan looking for a nuanced and carefully developed romance that makes both characters justice.

Passion, Patents, and Pen Pals at the Ministry by yrfrndfrnkly and @violetclarity, art by @anaxandria-writes and @veelawings (T, 32k) - Hermione/Pansy

Easily my favorite Pansmione fic this year, this was such a surprising and refreshing story. The charming protagonists and clever development mixing dialogue and epistolary create a lively and exciting work universe at the Ministry. I felt immediately immersed in their routine None of that would work without the perfect supporting cast (meddling Harry is such a gem!) and the unique spice only an identity porn + epistolary combo can bring. Fun and refreshing, a must read for all femslash fans who are thirsty for good long fics. 

[phdmama]

(okay first off Tumblr, why the hell didn't you TELL ME ABOUT THIS??)

Holy. Crap. Like.

This is just stunning (I mean, you know I love your writing so...) - but I really love the frame of Harry's anger and trauma - I feel like I don't see as much of it like this, and it resonates hard for me. It feels spot-on.

Something about this line just hit me fucking SQUARE in the chest:

Malfoy shakes his head slightly, his mouth twisted in a grimace. “I’m going to do what I always do." He shoves Harry back. "I’m going to show you who you are.”

Just gorgeous. Absolutely.

Tinder (Drarry)

Relationships: Drarry Word Count: ~650 Eighth year, post-war, a little dark with a happy ending. For the prompt: Drarry, snarky banter resulting in a kiss to shut them up Thank you so much @phdmama, that was just what I needed.  For anyone else, I'm open (ie, begging) for drabble prompts this weekend, I'm in need of distraction. :)

Harry comes back wrong.

It’s normal to feel this way, his Mindhealer tells him. It’s normal to be on edge. To be furious and terrified and endlessly waiting for the next disaster.

Every single person he sees—in the Great Hall or the eighth year Common Room—drives him mad. They watch him too closely or completely ignore him or treat him like he’s a god or like he’ll explode.  And most nights, he does explode, in the end.  That, or heads to bed early and puts up Silencing Charms to pretend he’s alone.

And so much of the time, he feels alone. Horribly, horribly alone. And he knows it’s his own fault, but he can’t see a way through.

Malfoy, of all people, is the one who finds him.

He's different, now, and he’s none of the things that annoy Harry most.  He’s not tentative and he’s not afraid. He doesn’t pretend Harry’s an epic hero.

After one more outburst in the Common Room, Harry runs into him on the way to the dorms. 

“I see you’re at it again, Potter,” he says dryly. “Well done. Anyone crying, this time? Thanks Merlin they didn’t divide us by house again, you’d give those first years their own personal war trauma. Honestly.”

Harry goes stiff.  “I didn’t ask for this. I didn’t ask for any of it.”

“Yeah, well, I don’t think they especially asked for it, either. Salazar on a stick, Potter, I don’t know what you’re spoiling for, but you’re going to get the hefty butt of a broom to the back of the head if you keep it up.”

Harry steps forward, dumbfounded and strangely thrilled. “Is that a threat? Are you actually threatening me?”

Malfoy laughs. “Threatening you? With a broomstick?” He leans in, close enough that Harry feels his breath on his face. “If I was threatening you, you’d know it,” he hisses.

Harry grabs the front of his perfectly pressed shirt and pushes, and follows until Malfoy is pinned to the wall and Harry’s close enough to see every fleck of blue in his eyes. “So what are you gonna do, then? How are you going to stop me, if you’re so worried?” How are you going to stop me if I can't stop myself?

Malfoy shakes his head slightly, his mouth twisted in a grimace. “I’m going to do what I always do." He shoves Harry back. "I’m going to show you who you are.”

Something sparks inside Harry when Malfoy shoves him again.

Malfoy nods. “There you are.” Shove. “Go on. Hit me. I know you want to. Come on, do it. You know I deserve it.”

Harry has no idea what Malfoy deserves. He hits him anyway, right in the mouth, and Malfoy stumbles back. He bounces up with fire in his eye, and, Merlin, Harry feels alive again.

Malfoy spits blood. “That’s it, then? Bloodletting? Let’s do this.” He charges for Harry, aiming low, and Harry crouches to meet him, spins him again and shoves him against the opposite wall.

Breathing hard against Malfoy’s mouth, Harry’s the most vital he’s been since he came back from King’s Cross.  He raises one hand and presses a thumb to Malfoy’s swelling lip.

Malfoy makes a soft, high sound, like some tiny animal lost in a hedge, and something happens. Something huge in Harry breaks open, and he thinks he might cry. He might cry and he might never stop.

And then, somehow, Malfoy’s lips are on his, insistent and more real to him than Harry’s own body. 

He kisses back like he's drowning. He opens his mouth and sucks the blood from Malfoy’s lip, and the moan that follows.  He pushes forward and slides his hands up Malfoy’s back, and he holds on for dear life; Malfoy does the same, as if he was lost, too, and is just now finding his way.

“Merlin above,” Harry murmurs, “what was that?”

“No idea,” Malfoy says wetly against his mouth. “Harry. Again.”

What can Harry do when Malfoy uses his name like that? “Yes,” he says, and he kisses Malfoy—Draco—again, and then again. He loses himself, and finds himself, and loses himself again.

It doesn’t matter, Harry realises as Draco kisses hungrily along his jaw. Draco will find him. Draco knows who he is.

[iamnmbr3]

Do you write any fanfiction? Or do you only write character analysis on this blog? I find your blog posts rather compelling and would love to read something that you’ve written for drarry ♡

What a lovely ask to receive! Thank you so much!! I've never published any fic (unless you count this lol). I am working on an epistolary drarry letter writing fic, a darry 8th year long fic, a canon compliant series of Tom Riddle vignettes filling in some of the gaps in his backstory, and a drarry postwar plotty fic, which I may publish if I'm brave enough.

[dracomort]

Sorry if you've been asked this before, but where do you take inspiration for your stories and writing style? I have re-read every single one of your works on ao3, and i cant help but love the way you portray the characters, and how well you pace all the stories. It is detailed yet very simple and i absolutley adore it! So i was wondering weather you take inspiration from other authors, ffs, or does it just kinda spawn in your head?

Sidenote: you made me fall into the taco rarepair hole and i am forever grateful. You are amazing and your writing is so good i simply cant get enough of it <33333

Thank you so much!

Regarding writing style, I read too much Enid Blyton as a kid, so that bleeds through sometimes. C.S. Pacat is writing goals to me, so I aspire to her succinct, impactful sentences. I'm also easily influenced by whatever I'm reading at a particular moment, so if my characters begin spiralling into long paranoid rambles, you'll know I got myself into another Dostoevsky novel.

On story inspiration, I've always been a big daydreamer, so that's part of it. When I was a teenager, I used to like to watch the TV while it was turned off and just daydream aggressively till I could see the characters in my head on the screen lol.

I'm also a massive hater, so when I read something I disagree with, it inspires me to write. I think having something to say creates the best fiction. Writing for such a rarepair is also interesting because I can integrate ideas from Draco fics I've read and Tom fics I've read and create something new. Take the classic Drarry cliché of Harry giving Draco back his wand. It turns dark and twisted when, as in Blood, Voldemort is the one to return the wand (thus Harry is dead and Voldemort knows Draco lost or gave his wand to him).

Generally, I think in scenes rather than larger plot beats, so my fics tend to have more of an episodic/vignette-y vibe. I don't really do anything in particular to come up with those scenes, I just think about the fic throughout the day and when new scenes/dialogue occurs to me, I write them down. For example, with The Travelling Cabinet, I just had 1 scene in my head, which was Draco falling out of the vanishing cabinet while Tom is trying to close up shop. Then I just went and wrote the fic lol. Here's the original 'plan':

[lostdrarryfics]

hi! 1: y’all are doin the good work 💜 2: ok i’m lookin for a fic SERIES. i’m almost positive this is a series of shorter fics none of them >15,000 words - if it’s one fic it’s only a couple chapters that kind of act like vignettes. drarry is the central pairing but is happening within the context of harry/ron/hermione having used to have been in a loose long term throuple. it’s post-war and ends with the 4 of them on a beach at night smoking weed and it’s beautiful lol thank you!!!!!!

We believe you are looking for Headway series by orphan_account (30k, E)

Don’t forget to bookmark, leave kudos and comments!

[bookgeekgrrl]

My media this week (14-20 Jan 2024)

📚 STUFF I READ 📚

Death in Soho (Augusta Peel #1) (Emily Organ, author; Sarah Nichols, narrator) - acceptable cozy mystery set post-WWI. Perfectly cromulent and will probably read another when I'm craving an uncomplicated read. Did appreciate that Miss Peel is middle-aged, not an ingenue/flapper

Ever Since New York (AHM1121) - 94K, shrunkyclunks omegaverse - just a really satisfying omegaverse fic, loved these versions of them

Running on Air (eleventy7) - 74K, drarry - it's 8 yrs post-war, draco's been missing for 3 of them and harry's been assigned the cold case. There's driving and melancholy and eventually sorting out feelings and stuff

💖💖 +199K of shorter fic so shout out to these I really loved 💖💖

Quench (AidaRonan) - MCU: shrunkyclunks, 9K - reread, all time forever fave with possibly my fave description of thick steve: 'built like a mack truck made out of ribeye' (all the simile action in this fic is fantastic tbh)

This Light-Struck Country (TentacleParty) - The Witcher: eskel/oc (monster), 18K - some truly quality monsterfucking

sunrise supplications (liadan14) - The Old Guard: kaysanova, 12K - great modern AU enemies-to-lovers with a very clever spin on joe & nicky's canonical meeting

Slow Boat to China (Penguinjava) - A Charm of Magpies series (KJ Charles): Merrick & Lucien, 7K - wonderful vignette of the boat trip to china after lucien's horrible father banished them & the foundation of their relationship

📺 STUFF I WATCHED 📺

Brooklyn Nine-Nine - s8, e1-4

Dirty Laundry - s3, e10

D20: Fantasy High: Junior Year - "Summer Breakdown" (s21, e2)

D20: Adventuring Party - "Fs Get Defgrees" (s16, e2)

Mrs Sidhu Investigates - s1, e1-4

🎧 PODCASTS 🎧

⭐ Desert Island Discs - Greta Gerwig, writer and director

What Next: TBD - Is Your Car Tracking You?

Ologies with Alie Ward - Carcinology (CRABS) Part 1 with Adam Wall

Pop Culture Happy Hour - Our Emmys Recap

Switched on Pop - Soundalikes: Lil Nas X and Ariana Grande

⭐ The Sporkful - The Hidden Battle Over Grocery Store Shelves

99% Invisible #566 - Imitation Nation

Code Switch - The women who masterminded the Montgomery Bus Boycott

⭐ Films To Be Buried With - Joel Kim Booster

Just One Thing - Take Vitamin D

NPR's Book of the Day - 'The Golden Screen' chronicles the films that shaped the Asian American diaspora

Vibe Check - Wesley Morris, or Wesley Snipes?

Welcome to Night Vale - Bonus Ep: Riddle Guy

NPR's Book of the Day - 'The Frozen River' tells the fictionalized story of a real 18th century midwife

Sara & Cariad's Weirdos Book Club - Monsters: A Fan's Dilemma by Claire Dederer with Winnie M Li

Today, Explained - How the war in Gaza ends

99% Invisible - Power Broker #01: Robert Caro

Dear Prudence - I Spend Hours a Day Having Intense Romantic Daydreams. Help!

Endless Thread - Where's the Beef?

What Next: TBD - The Great British Library Hack

It's Been a Minute - The political power of white Evangelicals; plus, Biden and the Black church

Under the Influence with Terry O'Reilly - When Bad Commercials Become Cult Classics

Wait Wait… Don't Tell Me! - David Oyelowo

You're Dead to Me - The Bloomsbury Group

🎶 MUSIC 🎶

The Definitive Croce

Classic Bedtime Favorites

Presenting Lionel Richie

'80s Pop Party

Green Day

Presenting Gordon Lightfoot

Presenting Steely Dan

[phdmama]

You're the Winner

Heard this song the other day and had this little scene spring full-fledged to my mind, so I just had to write it.

Drarry (mostly implied), ~800 words, Teen. Pain with a hopeful ending. Post-redemption Draco (undiscussed). Draco and his father. (Unbeta'd and mostly SOOC so please be kind!)

'Cause now there's no one Who ever has done better At making me feel worse Now you really are the winner

“You know,” his father says, pulling one glove off, his hands graceful in their economy of movement. “You’ve always been something of a disappointment, Draco.”

His tone is mild, almost disinterested, as if he’s simply stating a fact. The sky is blue. Water is wet. Draco Malfoy has always been something of a disappointment.

“But,” his father continues, “this really does take the biscuit.”

Draco swallows. Opens his mouth, shuts it again. There’s nothing more to be said.

His father shakes his head, pulls the other glove off, lays the pair neatly on the arm of the sofa. 

“This cannot continue.”

Draco presses his lips together to keep himself from babbling. You can’t tell me to stop, this is the only thing that has ever made me feel alive. I love him. I love you. Why can’t you love me back? He loves me back.

His father claps his hands together, once. Sharp. Decisive. “You can owl him in the morning. It would be rude to simply disappear. Now please, go upstairs and get dressed for dinner.” He eyes Draco’s muggle clothes, ripped jeans and trainers, a moue of distaste on his face. “Don’t let your mother see you dressed like that.” 

He turns away, utterly dismissive. Confident his directive will be obeyed.

Draco clenches his fists, squares his shoulders, and steps off the cliff.

“No.”

His father turns in surprise, lifts one eyebrow in a supercilious look of disdain identical to the one Draco knows he’s worn far too often.

“I beg your pardon?”

“I said.” Draco takes a deep breath. “No. I will not get dressed for dinner. I will not stop seeing him. I will not stop loving him. You ask too much.”

“Draco.” His father’s voice is stern, reminiscent of a thousand similar scenes over the years. “I will not allow this.”

“I don’t think you can stop me,” Draco says. 

His voice is shaking. His knees are shaking. But he’s still standing. It’s time to go.

“I’m leaving. I’m sorry if you cannot accept this, but I love him.”

His father lets out a bark of laughter that almost sounds unrehearsed. 

“You love him,” he says, his voice dripping with scorn. “Well, by all means then. Destroy your life. Destroy this family’s reputation, the one I’ve worked so hard to redeem, the one that got you into that fancy university rather than Azkaban. Break your mother’s heart. Because you love him.”  He shakes his head, makes a pfft of disapproval. “Love.”

Draco turns his back, walks away. 17 steps to the entry hall, where he’s stashed the things he cannot bear to leave behind. Another 19 steps to the doorway out.

“Draco,” his father barks and Draco pauses, his hand on the knob and turns back. “If you do this, if you walk out that door, you will not be welcome back.”

Draco nods. “That’s more or less what I expected.”

“Then why are you doing this?” His father’s voice is quiet, and perhaps its the first authentic thing he’s said today.

“Because I have to,” Draco replies. “Because having him, having a life with him is worth more than losing you.”

Something flashes across his father’s face, too brief to be identifiable, and then his father’s lips tighten and he lifts his chin.

“So be it,” he says, and flicks his fingers towards Draco.

Draco flinches at the rush of magic through him and the emerald in the crest of the ring on his hand shatters, the sound of it ringing in Draco’s ears as he and Lucius stare at each other for one last time.

Then Draco walks out the door, leaving his name behind him.

Later, in the dark hours before dawn, Draco lies in bed, curled on his side with his face to the wall. He cries, silent, forcing his body still so his sobs don’t wake the man next to him who is, Draco prays, sound asleep.

Except he stirs, rolls over, the weight of his body a comfort as he drapes himself over Draco, slides his hand down Draco’s arm to thread their fingers together.

“Hey,” he murmurs, his voice sleep rough, “it’s okay. It’s going to be okay.”

“But how,” Draco pauses, tries to catch his breath. “How do you know?”

He feels Potter’s shrug, focuses on the way Potter’s thumb gently rubs the back of his hand.

“I just do, I guess. I’m not sure I know how you feel, but I do know you’ve survived worse. I know your heart is broken, baby, but at least you’re free.”

Draco scrubs a hand over his damp face.

“I don’t know who I am,” he confesses softly. “Without my name. Without my family. I just don’t know.”

“That’s okay,” Potter says sleepily, and snuggles in impossibly closer. “I do. I know who you are."

[hazelmaines]

"Are you freaking out yet" intrigues me 👀

That is the nonsense spillover from Drarry Forever 😆 Making little socmed bits and vignettes around that seems like what my brain wants to do for a minute! The doc title is the first line:

[broomsticks]

interlude #2: fic recs by astrological sign

thought it was worth documenting as a (non-representative!!) snapshot of people's favorite fics! got to treat myself to some fun reads and rereads, too!

♒️ Aquarius: that’s the art of getting by by sarewolf (completed 2021, 40k, M). this was recced previously so i'm also going to plug the same author's new fic, when covered in snow (36k (WIP), M), an everyone lives post-first war au.

♈️ Aries: ten reasons (to go to michigan) by greyeyedmonster18 (2022, 60k, M). lovely modern american au with divorced writer!remus getting together with single parent sirius.

♋️ Cancer: Jessamine & Lemon Balm by ink_inEden (2020, 4k, T). wonderfully soft mwpp hogwarts-era moon-related hurt/comfort (heavy on the comfort) puppy cuddling.

♑️ Capricorn: Common Woodbrown by imochan (2015, 36k, M). a multi-era canon-divergent remus lupin character study, before and during the lost years in which he proves sirius's innocence.

♊️ Gemini: Currents by lunchbucket (2019, 100k, E): a rivals-to-lovers summer olympics au featuring America’s golden boy Remus Lupin and Great Britain’s notorious bad boy Sirius Black.

♌️ Leo: Dress up in You by MsKingBean89 (2019, 88k, M): a fun ensemble muggle band au! Sirius attends a charity rock gig organised by his best friend's girlfriend, and the tall, quiet bassist catches his eye...

♎️ Libra: Blends by rvltn909 (2016, 190k, M): an iconic coffee shop/university au! chronically ill remus and a side of jily.

♓️ Pisces: The Kissing Booth by melanie_bxx (2019, 11k, E). there wasn't a wolfstar fic with this title on AO3 so i'm assuming it's this eighth year Drarry -- hot, fun, flirty adaptation of the movie of the same name!

♐️ Sagittarius: Choices by MesserMoon (2022, 600k, E). hogwarts/first war era canon-compliant jegulus + jily epic!

♏️ Scorpio: saccharine by moonymoment (2021, 26k, T). fun modern au, in which sirius is the gorgeous fridge-letter-moving ghost who haunts remus's apartment! mystery with a happy ending.

♍️ Virgo: Remain in Light by veeagainst (2020, 175k, E). AU canon divergence sirius-survived-the-veil, multi-era told in flashback vignettes.

wolfstar fandom survey results pt. 1/many: demographics of survey respondents

in winter 2022 the big wolfstar server decided we were curious about the fandom and decided to put together a survey. from early Oct to early Nov 2022 it got 400+ responses to a bunch of questions from age to house sorting to gender, general continental location, 'Marauder you most relate to,' favorite non-wolfstar ship, fic, and tropes. the whole thing is a monster to analyze and can probably keep my little nerd face busy for years lmao, but I'll be attacking it in small bites so have some results as I make them!

also: i was not involved in the design of this survey beyond 'server member' and did not have any input into which questions were asked and how!

i also did not keep track of where & how this survey was publicized, i genuinely have no idea and can only make guesses from seeing the results.

i also also, as of time of writing, have no plans to rerun this survey on any sort of regular basis! with that in mind, thoughts and comments are welcome!

• • •

first things first: a general overview of respondents:

The largest category of respondents was 25+, with 80 respondents from the smallest bucket of age 10-17.

60% of respondents answered "0-5 years" to the question "How long have you been in the Wolfstar fandom?". The remaining 40% was equally split between the other two options "5-10 years" and "10+ years."

& the vast majority of respondents lived in North America or Europe.

This global distribution generallyyyy holds true across ages and length of time in fandom.

NA fans make up a majority of both the oldest and longest-participating categories. there's interestingly an increase in European and Asian fans in the very youngest parts of fandom, and an Oceania peak in the intermediate 5-10y and age 18-24 buckets.

Unsurprisingly, age and length of time in fandom are related. Passes the sanity check too (no six-year-olds admitting to reading fic!), which is a good sign for this data!

• • •

>96% of respondents read fic primarily on AO3, 2.5% on Wattpad and 1% on FFN. Data not shown bc of post image limit.

More detailed analysis of this data specifically is going to be a bit complicated because multiple selections were allowed (respondents picked 1.65 options on average) if anyone has tips or tools for how to analyze this, lmk!!!

• • •

With how much age and fandom length correlate, it's not surprising that they're largely similar (few Slytherins in young fandom! and the opposite for Gryffindor in older fandom!) but it was interesting to see that both these trends have more to do with fandom length of time than chronological age.

[gallifrey1sburning]

Scars

CW: references to self harm and alcohol abuse

The first time Voldemort fell, the marks branded onto the arms of his followers faded to nothing but a dull grey—a shadow of what they had once been. As he strengthened, they darkened. When he rose, they burned. And when he died, they disappeared into the ether as though they—as though he—had never been.

But Draco could still feel it, lingering beneath his skin, pulsing through his veins—a darkness that would not fade, an evil that would not die. His skin might be blank, but he knew, at the core of himself, that his soul was forever tainted.

He marked himself, instead—to remember, to punish, to feel. To purge the darkness that crawled through every artery until he felt like he would burst from the pressure. Stinging lines of red, a map of his sins scrawled across flesh that was clear and white but didn’t deserve to be.

—

The first time Voldemort met Harry, they both survived, but they both lost parts of themselves. The final time they met, they both died, and their pieces scattered and rearranged. When Harry returned, with his death etched across his chest, everyone hailed him as the hero that had saved them all, and they called him golden, and they thought him whole.

But Harry knew better, knew that the souls of those lost because he hadn’t been enough trailed behind him like chains, knew that everything inside him was grey and fragmented, knew that pieces of himself had been trapped on the other side, leaving him empty and raw.

He filled the gaping chasm with burning liquor that allowed the chains to float, that hid the grey under hazy amber, that dulled the sharp edges where parts of him had been ripped out in the shapes of the people he’d loved and could not save. At least for a while.

—

The first year that Draco and Harry spent together at Hogwarts, they saw each other as rivals. They schemed and fought and thought they knew hate, and they crashed against each other like waves in a stormy sea.

When they returned to Hogwarts for the final time, they saw each other as mirrors, reflecting back their own wounds. They were battered and broken and they knew, now, what hate really looked like, and they chose to bury it with their dead.

One of them was overflowing, his regret uncontainable. The other was empty, his grief fathomless. But in each other they found balance. Eventually, their painful edges melded seamlessly, soldered by a cleansing fire of forgiveness and second chances, and they glowed in the flames, melting and reforming and healing, and together they rose as something new.

Also on AO3

[sitp-recs]

HP Rec Fest, Day 4

As a big enthusiast of HP art I couldn’t be more excited about today’s prompt from @hprecfest. In my experience, the fic + art combo always feels like a special treat and makes the reading experience all the more immersive and magical. If you’re a Drarry fan make sure to check the HD Big Bang Fest which brings amazing collabs between writers and artists. I was hard pressed to rec my all-time fave A Sword Laid Aside by @korlaena with stunning artwork by @saulaie, but in the spirit of reccing new, lesser known works I’ve picked 2 Drarry fics and 1 rarepair. I’m so delighted to rec authors and artists I’ve admired for such a long time. Thank you all for sharing your talent with us!

Day 4) A fic with art:

Drarry

Memento Mori by @fantalfart and art by @crazybutgood (M, 24k)

Seven is the number on my door. It’s the amount of scars I bear on my chest. It’s the time I wake up every morning. Seven is how old I was when father beat me for the first time, and seven years later I felt the force of a Cruciatus by the same hands.

this is such a cool and creative case fic, I was hooked since the start and can’t believe how CBG’s origami art only enhanced the sense of mystery and the story’s creepy, dream-like quality. brilliantly well thought and executed, I promise this will haunt you for a while!

Waking Up Slow by @sweet-s0rr0w and art by @ihopeyoubothstaysafefromharm (E, 22k)

'Twas the night before Christmas, although it’s July / Draco’s a shopkeeper, no-one knows why / There’s hiking and witch caves, freak snowfalls and more / Bad Christmas jumpers, nosy neighbours galore / Narcissa’s here too, but… something’s amiss / And what’s in those chocolates that’s making them kiss?

WUS is one of my 2023 favorites but for some reason it remains criminally underrated so I’m here to invite you to embrace the Christmas spirit and go read this sweet story asap. I adore this charming and quirky shop owner Draco, watching Harry fall for him was such a treat. Just like the story, Joy’s art is rich, creative and tender, with layers of soft angst expertly woven underneath 🤌🏼

Rare pair

The NottPott Chronicles by @amarillis39 and @missmrah (E, 35k, ongoing) - Harry/Theo

A series of moments from Theo and Harry’s lives as they learn to navigate their relationship, deal with their demons or just simply revel in each other’s company. Every story can be read as a stand-alone.

this luxurious series is a feast to the eyes and an absolute rarepair classic in my opinion; a must read to all NottPott fans or those curious about the ship like myself. I was immediately sold on this hot tattooed power couple being sexy & tender across a series of deliciously intimate slice of life vignettes.

[tenthousandyearsx]

Words: 150 Author: tenthousandyears (tumblr | AO3) Rating: G Category: M/M Fandom: Harry Potter - J. K. Rowling Relationship: Draco Malfoy/Harry Potter Notes: Thanks to the wonderful crazybutgood for the beta!

“Are we ghosts?” Harry asks, waving his arms.

“We’re not ghosts,” Hermione says with an eye roll. Then, when Draco groans, “Shut up, Malfoy.”

“I’m incorporeal,” Draco says indignantly. “I will not shut up.”

“Don’t look at me,” Harry says. “We are incorporeal. I can’t kiss him.”

“What?” Draco looks even more indignant. “Is that what you’ve been doing?”

Ron snickers. “We have a signal. For when you start getting on our nerves.”

“Oh, seriously,” Hermione says. “Will you all focus? We need to figure out what we did wrong and revert it.”

“It was Weasley’s potion,” Draco says. “I don’t see why I have to be an ectoplasm.”

“I’ll turn you into an ectoplasm,” Ron grumbles.

Harry sighs and floats wobblingly in front of Draco.

“Maybe I can kiss you anyway?” he says. “Worth a try.”

Draco’s transparent skin blushes. Then, he mumbles something and floats closer to Harry.