#i think this might become my official friends book rec post

[bluejay-in-flight]

I have no words right now for how unbelievably excited I am!!!! I purchased two books recently, "Dead Girls Don't Say Sorry" by the amazing writer @aritany and "Salivation" by @alienfuckeronmain who is not only a brilliant writer but is also running their own writing course called "Blood/Ink/Bone" that has already changed my life!

While I don't know either of them extremely personally I am honored to say that I have gotten to speak with both of them one on one and they're both as wonderful as their writing suggests! 💙 I am also extremely honored to be able to read both of their work and watch their journeys progress as published authors! So if you're looking for stories that are beautifully written and will affect you in a deep and visceral way you have to check out these two authors!

(And if you too are a writer and looking to rediscover your love for writing and improve your skills you should definitely check out Blood/Ink/Bone the link for which is here!)

[pingnova]

I want to know more about the Christian Bible but don't want all of the conservative riff-raff. What should I read?

A friend posed this question to me, so here are my suggestions.

Firstly, my biases: progressive politically, American, white, protestant/ELCA Lutheran, queer/gay/LGBTQ. The stuff I recommend is going to line up with these.

Quick aside on different ways Bibles are translated and interpreted

When translating an ancient language to modern English, there is no "literal" translation; that is, no translation that will be word-for-word the exact same meaning. If you have used Google Translate, you've probably noticed there are nuances that a "literal" word-swap machine translation misses. This is especially true with the Bible.

So be wary of any translation (or person or movement) that claims they follow the One True Literal Translation. That doesn't exist, and you'd be the chump in that situation. (Looking at you Evangelicals.) Conservatives and progressives are guilty of falling into that fallacy.

^ Above: A funny example of how a machine word-for-word translation misses a lot of meaning. "My dog has a hangover" machine translated to German and then back to English becomes "my dog has a cat." x

There are three main buckets of Bible translation. IMHO---and many scholars will agree---the best translation to read will actually be two or three translations. One for each method. The Bible is messages ("facts" meant to be passed down, history) and art (poetry, storytelling, song), which need their own special treatment to be understood in another language.

Some translations focus on the individual words (word-for-word/Formal Equivalence), some focus on the sentences or chunks of meaning (thought-for-thought/Dynamic Equivalence), and some try to balance the two with context a modern reader would understand (paraphrase). I won't detail it all here, but I highly recommend reading this Logos article which goes further in depth. I've included their helpful graphic below which breaks this down into four buckets, but you get what I mean.

Additionally, know which Christian tradition you want to approach this from because they include different books in their Bibles. Catholics also have a set of books called the Apocrypha, but most Protestants exclude those books. Bibles from other parts of the world have different books...

So look up the list of books you want to include too. I think it's great to read them all, but be aware that if you went to talk to someone about this they might not know what the hell you're talking about if you've read the Apocrypha and they haven't.

So tl;dr: No single Bible translation is ever going to give you the best understanding. The Bible is in an ancient language, so you need multiple perspectives to understand what it's saying as a modern reader. Modern translators and politics also influence which versions of the Bible people read, to the point of excluding whole groups of books. At least two different Bible translations that you can compare side by side is the best place to start.

A funny post by @enriquemolina that really cuts to the point.

On to the actual Bible recommendation.

Which Bibles to read

I personally use The Lutheran Study Bible by Fortress Press. It's NRSV, which is a moderate translation (mix of word-for-word translation and meaning-for-meaning) that includes supplementary materials for new learners. It's the official Bible of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (not actually evangelical but that's another long story), which I'm part of, so I'm biased. I felt like it was a solid translation to grow up reading with a focus on helping you understand what it's saying and to think about the meaning for yourself, vs dictating the meaning to you. It is not a poetic translation however, so it wasn't until I was an adult that I learned the bible was also full of songs and poetry, which today I think of as just as valuable.

I don't have a good rec for a more poetic version unfortunately, but many people still enjoy the King James Bible when they want something flowery. I too have taken verses from there for decorative purposes. BUT: it was commissioned to support the reign of King James VI and thus has decent bias written into it. It is conservative by modern terms as well.

@blessedarethebinarybreakers has a post of good recs as well. They explicitly recommend AGAINST the NIV, NIT, and ESV. Look up a conservative church near you and check which versions they recommend. Then don't read those.

Bible Gateway is a good place to read different versions side by side. Look up quotes you like or that bother you in multiple translations. It may help you decide which ones you want to ultimately buy.

I have not actually read these versions but I wanted to include them so you know your options. These were created with specific intent against bigotry, so they have a strong bias. Not that I find that problematic in this case - there's a crap ton of Bibles that were made intentionally to perpetuate bigotry. So I'm just choosing which bias I prefer.

First Nations Version: An Indigenous Translation of the New Testament by Terry M Wildman <- Native perspective (paraphrase)

The Queen James Bible <- KJV edited to remove or explain core clobber passages, very popular with queer Catholics

The Inclusive Bible: The First Egalitarian Translation by Priests for Equality <- gendered language and other instances of bias edited out, tho I think it's still anti-gay?! (paraphrase)

Resources for inevitable encounters with bigotry

Many people avoid the Bible because the people and movements that claim it really lay the bigotry on thick and justify it with this dusty old book. If you have the interest to learn more about the Bible, very quickly you're going to encounter this bigotry in the translations and supplemental materials.

I'll tell you now on no uncertain terms: Your interpretation of the Bible does not HAVE to include bigotry, despite what many outside entities may try to tell you.

I always say, "The Bible is so big and so varied that you can 'make' it say anything. The true test is what you choose to make it say. Something hateful? Or something loving and affirming?"

It says a lot more about someone when you remove the excuse that the Bible fundamentally is full of bigoted beliefs. If you believe that racism and slavery are good and natural because it's in the Bible, as early American slavers claimed, then you're actually just human garbage. Any modern sane person knows its presence in an ancient text has no weight on today. It's the same for anything else on its pages.

Conservatives "cherry pick" meaning from the Bible that they prefer to believe, but it's just as true that so do progressives. The Bible is huge and contradictory because it's a bunch of very old texts written by a ton of different people playing a game Telephone over a few thousand years. It's full of stories, poetry, and history---with some bigotry baked in, and some applied in modern times. The stories are full of complex characters (heroes, villains, antiheroes) and history is not always pretty. The books of the Bible literally argue with each other.

^ Above: I've always enjoyed this graphic, which maps all of the times the Bible contradicts itself. That's a lot! Good thing the Bible isn't to be taken literally, that would be impossible. (Evangelicals: .....) x

Nobody is meant to replicate what's in the Bible or use it as a guidebook for how to live life to the letter. You're meant to read the arguments and come up with your own answer. (Personally I think the winning hint is how many times the protagonist talked about loving one another.)

tl;dr: If conservatives are cherry picking the Bible and progressives are cherry picking the Bible, who is flying the plane?! You are. So make the choice that doesn't hurt anybody.

Anti-Semitism and the Old Testament

I am an advocate for reading Old Testament translations (and interpretations) very critically. I'm sure all are aware of the anti-Semitism baked into Christianity. A lot of it stems from interpretation of the OT, which includes major portions of the Tanakh, the Jewish core religious text. The OT and the Tanakh are not one and the same, but they are entwined, and cause a lot of grief for everyone involved when not treated with the proper care.

Read the Old Testament separately from the rest of the Bible (the New Testament). I have really enjoyed using the free (!!) website Sefaria, an online library of Jewish texts. You can compare the Tanakh translations and commentary there to the same of the OT in your Bible of choice. (Also please throw them some money when you can, they're truly one of the great joys of the internet and operate as a nonprofit, keep them online forever.)

Beware any (Christian, New Testament) Bible translations that claim to be Jewish. There is a kind of Christian that calls themself a "Messianic Jew" that claims to recognize Jesus as the Jewish messiah. It's all very offensive, so please do not engage. Check the sources of websites and books to make sure you don't see the word Messianic. There are true academic texts by Jewish scholars that engage with Christian thought, but it will be very clear that they are not a Christian themself.

Speaking of... Another resource you must read is Better Parables. This is a website by a Jewish scholar who interprets the famous (and infamous) Christian parables of Jesus through the paradigm of Jewish academic dialogue. Many Christians have never heard non-anti-Semitic readings of a lot of New Testament content so this site offers refreshing perspective to get you out of that mindset. Particularly if you grew up with Christianity, I consider this mandatory reading.

Queer affirmation in the Bible

Personally I have moved beyond the fight against clobber passages (Bible verses interpreted to support homophobia) towards actively affirming readings of the Bible. I have tons of these resources, so I'm just gonna make a list.

Websites

Queer Theology - podcast, classes, and theological resources

Queer Grace Encyclopedia - succinct articles and links on common questions

Blessed Are the Binary Breakers - podcast and long running Tumblr blog @blessedarethebinarybreakers

Supplemental Bible interpretation

The Queer Bible Commentary by Deryn Guest, et. al. - if you can get it used for cheaper, this is a must have while reading the Bible

Take Back the Word: A Queer Reading of the Bible by Robert E Goss, et. al. - if you can't afford the above commentary, this has only a few chapters from the larger book for a better price

For your inner child

What Is God Like? by Rachel Held Evans - I literally cried reading this children's book, I'm man enough to admit it. This is what we all should have been taught about the Christian god as kids.

[not-poignant]

Book recs on autism/add/CPTSD?

Aside from the books I recced here ages ago, which are mostly PTSD and dissociative disorder focused, nope. There’s one book in there on autism, but it’s specifically for partner workshopping, and that’s it.

Part of the reason I don’t have any book recs on C-PTSD is that there is not a ton of great books out there on C-PTSD, and this is partly because it’s not officially recognised in most of the world’s major diagnostic manuals. People can’t decide exactly what it is, or whether it’s a combination of comorbidities. They can’t decide if they want to call it C-PTSD or DES-NOS or something else. Not only that, but a serious push was made to include DES-NOS and DTD (C-PTSD related acronyms) in the latest revision of the DSM, and all were pushed back/rejected for just being insufficiently presented as conditions. Imho, I don’t think the DSM was wrong to reject what was put forward as the disorder.

I followed research around C-PTSD closely (because my symptoms match the description of it closely) around 1994 and in the decade afterwards. A lot of the time it was described as PTSD made additionally complicated by a dissociative disorder or alternatively, a personality disorder like Borderline or Bipolar Personality Disorder. It was used to distinguish from say, one-off rape-triggered PTSD, and PTSD that might be triggered by hundreds of rapes over a prolonged period since childhood (understanding that obviously, these would create different types of severity in the post-trauma spectrum, and require different treatments and expectations of recovery), and as with all disorders, a lot of people began self-diagnosing with C-PTSD who may have been dealing with comorbidities (PTSD + BPD as an example) that felt or looked similar.

Anyway, as a result, the literature on it outside of Herman’s work (which is in my stack of books) is like... mmmm. Hit and miss. It’s mostly articles.

Over time, with more research, it’s become less popular as a diagnostic disorder over time and not more popular, partly because a lot of the symptoms can be accounted for by pre-existing other conditions (ditto the treatments recommended). That isn’t to say it doesn’t exist, or that people can’t feel like that’s where they belong in terms of a label - I used the label myself for like 9 years before I decided against it - but the research around it shows more holes than anything solid, and there’s still a lot missing in the understanding of what is trying to be attained in the description of C-PTSD in the first place. It kind of had a golden age from like 1995-2005, dropped off the face of the planet, and then got picked up again during the renaissance of Tumblr (and social media) self-diagnosis and post-trauma social media vlogs etc.

The gold standard for C-PTSD discussion was still what was put forth by Judith Herman in Trauma and Recovery in 1992. There’s a reason even the Wiki article doesn’t step out much past that; there’s not that much good scientific work that’s been done in the field since that’s consistent or proves the existence of the disorder in the first place. :/ Traumatology science is complicated, but...things are not looking good for C-PTSD and it’s related acronyms DES-NOS (Disorders of Extreme Stress Not Otherwise Specified) and DTD (Developmental Trauma Disorder, for the childhood equivalent of C-PTSD) joining the DSM any time soon. So I kind of...dropped off with that research myself.

I have a lot of feelings about the C-PTSD diagnosis because I’ve had therapists diagnose me with it. But for the most part, it doesn’t change your treatment protocol anymore than if you had severe PTSD from prolonged trauma complicated with other mental and physiological disorders. As a result, I’m satisfied with the books on PTSD that I already have. I don’t set out to write characters with ‘C-PTSD’ - I write characters with PTSD complicated with other issues a lot of the time; if that reads as C-PTSD, that’s fine, but that’s actually just what PTSD complicated with other issues looks like as well.

I don’t have any book recs on ADHD or ADD, partly for selfish reasons - I don’t have it. I do have a lot of the symptoms, because there’s a lot of crossover between ADHD symptoms and severe PTSD symptoms and autism symptoms. (Fun fact, people with trauma who think they have ADHD or get diagnosed with ADHD first, often don’t realise that 70% of their symptoms can all be explained by PTSD. There are quite a few folks out there diagnosed with the latter, who might do better with treatment protocols for the former added in - many people don’t realise that mental illnesses trend in the mental health community. For like ten years it was bipolar and rapid cycling bipolar, for the last five years it’s been ADHD, some of those people have...you guessed it...PTSD, lol; when a disorder is trending, it gets diagnosed way more often whether the person has it or not - that’s why a differential diagnosis is so important).

I relate to almost every ADHD meme I see, because I have severe PTSD, lmao.

I’ve read a lot of articles on ADHD over the years because I have many friends who have it, but I don’t bookmark stuff like that so ¯\_(ツ)_/¯  I apologise! I mostly just pass them onto friends who have it and have appointed me their ‘research friend’ and that’s that.

And as for autism, I’ve never felt particularly compelled to read up on it, weirdly, outside of like the practical book that I’ve got in my collection (which I do, actually, recommend). Again, a lot of the symptoms between Asperger’s and severe PTSD actually are comorbid with each other, so again, a lot of the stuff covered in my PTSD research and therapy actually gave me adequate tools to deal with my autism.

But also just... most books on autism focus on boys with autism and focus on AMAB people and AMAB presentations and AMAB research and are less useful to me than like, articles and websites that specifically talk about AFAB autism presentation etc. The world of published autism books has a ways to go when it comes to not being like, sexist/misogynist in its presentation.

[nikosomething]

HEYYYY I'm back, very late, I know! But *distressed gurgling noises*. Sorry?? As for fic recs and sangcheng, I'm going to wait until the reveal so I can DM you about it, if you would like? Yess, it's precisely sweating that makes me hate summer haha. It is, truly, yes, the time between Christmas and new year is so sweet, the liminal days as some Tumblr post put it. OMG I'M CACKLING. That was a ride!! dfgdhjshxjdjd yes it's Heaven's official blessing, or TGCF (shortened Chinese title). Yes, I have read both of mxtx's other works- TGCF and svsss. TGCF is my favorite of all three of her books!

Oh yeah, having Meng Yao realise earlier what a douche his dick of a father is would be most wonderful for him AND other characters. Much less grief, surely. I'm alright with any canon divergence with the side characters. I just don't like wwx and lwj making different choices lol. ANYTHING ELSE is super fine! Omg that sounds beautiful. I hope you had a merry Christmas, Niko! Ah we don't celebrate xmas, no! But my holidays have been delightful! Oh wow, that's such a detailed answer. (2)

I prefer tea these days. Back in college, I used to drink coffee on the regular. Now, however, I'm more interested in ginger tea these days. I make it fresh each time- grate fresh ginger, boil it in water with tea powder and some sugar on the stove. I haven't really tried fancy teas, I don't think I'm much of a teabag person. I'd need loose tea haha. I like the ritual of making it, you know? As it so happens, Niko, this bunny is allergic to apples. I start sneezing as soon as I eat even a single bite of an apple, same with pears as well. Guess what my favorite fruit is? Apples! *saddest bunny sniff* green apples more so but I can't eat them! 😔

Cooking shows are soooo good, but it's been years since I have seen a proper cooking show. All of your recs sound amazing, I might check them out next year when I have time (busy with college work, you see). Oooh what all have I watched? Mostly Netflix shows and cdramas. Cdramas first cuz those are the ones I recently watched and hence, also remember - Joy of Life, Nirvana in Fire, the romance of tiger and rose, Hikaru No Go, Go ahead, TGCF donghua. Western shows- locke and key, Euphoria, Sex Education, (ohmygod I seriously can't recall any other. Rip my memory but I watched SO MANY shows ahhhhhh), I'm currently watching Bridgerton. If I remember, I shall tell you when the reveal happens. NIKO, even I watched the pillowbook and it's prequel, and yes, I have to agree that they aren't my favourites too. They were mehhh. I only liked it cuz of Dijun (purple robes, silver hair fella)! (3)

I'm pretty sure I messed up the numbering. I hope you can figure them out AHHHHHHH I don't even know the number of this text dfgdjdhdjdhdhd

Questions now! Idk have many questions honestly haha. I'm just excited for the reveal lmao. Who amongst the MDZS characters, would be your best friend and who would be your enemy? Kiss marry kill- JC, NHS, WWX? What's your favorite and least favorite arc/subplot in MDZS/cql? Alright, that's all for now! Talk to you soon- 🐰

---------

Heyyyyy my dear bunny, I missed you!! But don't worry, life happens! I understand haha Alright, let's wait for the big reveal so you can give me all da SangCheng fic recs! I am EXCITED! Omg okay yes, TGCF, I recognise that. And SVSS, taht one too. That was one crazy ride it's true hahaha If TGCF is your fav then it's all the more reason for me to get to TGCF next! Who is your fav character in TGCF (I wanna have that in mind when I read it haha) Ohhh! Now that's interesting! Why don't you like canon divergence for WangXian? I am intrigued! And thank youuu! I had a great Xmas and great stomachache cause I just didn't stop eating hahaha I lay awake with cramps regretting everything just to do it all over again the next day oops... talk about learning from your mistakes and stuff... hahaha May I ask where you come from? Is it a personal decision that you don't celebrate, is it religiously influenced or is it because of where you live? I hope that didn't sound disrespectful, if so (if I ever sound disrespectful for that matter) please let me know. I am always willing to learn and improve! <3 Ohhh yes, fresh ginger tea is amazing! I have never tried it with sugar, though, but now I am curious. And I actually have a teashop right around the corner where I can get fancy loose tea. Tell me what you like and I'll send you something ;)

Ohhhh noooooes you are allergic to apples! Nooooo! I am so sorry, esp since you like them! I have a friend who is allergic to tomatoes but loves tomato sauce. Ahhh it always breaks my heart Oh! I watched the first episodes of Euphoria but then I didn't have access anymore and I was so sad about that. And I think I also watched Sex Ed! And Netflix recommended Bridgerton to me only yesterday. It seemed interesting! Do you like it so far? (Also Imma so gonan check out your recommendations!!) HAHAHAHA OMGGG BUNNY! YES; I ONLY WATCHED IT FOR DIJUN! I CAN'T BELIEVE IT hahahahahaha Also I was so confused when everything was different in Pillowbook. Like they took great care to build it all up in Eternal Love and then EVERYTHING. IS. DIFFERENT. Ohh but I loved the General. What's his name... the one who was by Dijun's side as his right hand man and leader of the troops during that one life. Do you know who I mean? The sweet sweet boy ahhh man I took a bazillion screenshots of him hahaha I enjoyed your numbering haha it was almost perfect hahaha

My Answers

Who yould be my best friend? Uhmmmm... I guess someone who supports me, likes my enthusiasm but also helps me remember how the world works and sprinkles in a tad of realism. Lan Xichen perhaps! And I'd also have a great time with Lan Jingyi! haha omg all the LansBut I'd enjoy the presence of most characters tbh!!Enemywise... I only dislike people who hurt others so I guess if I witnessed one of them hurting my friends they'd become my enemy? Sadly I guess it'd be Xue Yang then. Or my baby Meng Yao if I had been close with NHS and or NMJ. I mean JGS and WRH are a given so I don't really mention them.Now tell me about you! I can't wait to hear about it!!omggg why are you giving me that super hard choice!!? Uhmmm... Kiss them all, have them marry their loved ones and pls, pls let them live! xDDDDD *sneakily sneaking out of this one*As for arc/subplot please let me know your thoughts on this! I honestly can't tell, I's have to watch it all over again cause I forget way too quickly. But there were defo parts I enjoyed mor ethan others. I'll think about it!Feel hugged!!!

[consortofkings]

‘THE HOBBIT’ FIC RECOMMENDATIONS - My Personal Favorites

I couldn’t think of a way to better enjoy Hobbit Day than to pay a little tribute to just a small sample of some of the amazing stories this fandom is lucky enough to be gifted with. There are many fics I’ve left out and will be adding to this list many times over before I’m done with it. Please feel free to let me know of any of your favorites that you think I might’ve missed as well!

It would not be impertinent to say this is less of fic rec post and more a love letter to this fandom.

NOTHING GOLD CAN STAY by perkynurples

Summary: Bilbo Baggins led a rather peaceful life, thank you very much, until an old acquaintance decided to turn it upside down, and he found himself agreeing to take a job that’s… let’s say not exactly up his alley, and might eventually cost him a little more than his treasured cozy lifestyle. Who would have thought tutoring a slightly menacing monarch’s more than slightly overbearing nephew could prove to be such an adventure? Bagginshield. Modern AU. King and I overtones. Novel-Length.

Thoughts: This was either the second or third Hobbit fic I ever read, and I honestly couldn’t tell you how many times I’ve re-read it. It was the first fic I ever added to my ebook reader just so I could read it whenever I wanted, and honestly, I could write an essay. The world building, the character study, the plot: it’s out of this world. I’ve read published novels that only had me a quarter as impressed as this story, and I wish I could pay money for it because I would buy multiple copies.

THE NAMING OF HOBBITS by Margo_Kim

Summary:  There's a certain point where you can no longer ask someone what their name is. Thorin isn't sure exactly when that point is, but he knows that it's probably some time before the person in question saves your life. On the far side of the Misty Mountains, Thorin realizes that he never quite caught the first part of Mr. Baggins' name, and he finds that it's astonishingly harder to learn than he would have thought. Fili, Kili, and Dwalin are no help whatsoever. Bagginshield. Humor.

Thoughts: This is not a long drawn out romance, but rather a short humorous getting together story and honest to god it is unfathomable how many times I have read and re-read it at this point. I could almost quote it word for word.

THE ROAD DELIVERED US HOME by  keelywolfe

Summary: In the years since Bilbo left Erebor, he has lost his respectability, gained a nephew, and gotten on with life at Bag End. He'd left aside adventure for the comforts and peace of his little Hobbit hole, and for the love of a child who needed him. Though perhaps, adventures can yet find him. Bagginshield. Cannon-ish compliant. Shire courting.

Thoughts: One of the first Bagginshield fics I ever read and most definitely one of the first to make me fall in love with the pairing. A tinge of angst sprinkled upon piles and piles of fluffiness like you’ve never seen before. The pining is above and beyond and the conclusion is so satisfying it’ll leave you feeling smug for days afterward.  

A MOST SENSIBLE IDEA by HildyJ

Summary: Bilbo Baggins isn't sure about this. Not one bit.

Frodo is definitely too young to enter into an arranged marriage with a dwarven king called Thorin Oakenshield. It's a good thing that Bilbo is there to chaperone him through their courtship.

After all, there's no chance that a fussy hobbit bachelor would ever catch the eye of a king. Bagginshield. AU. Erebor Courting.

Thoughts: In my slightly snobby opinion, very few Bagginshield fics get Frodo right. This is not one of those stories. The juxtaposition of Thorin and Frodo’s relationship with Thorin and Bilbo’s is fantastic, and the way they just can’t not be intrigued with each other makes this one of my favorite Bagginshield stories.

MY FAIR HOBBIT by Erinye

Summary: Take a dragon and get rid of it, take a Kingdom under the Mountain and let it thrive under Thráin’s rule, take the King’s eldest son - as proud and arrogant as you can picture him - and then send him to the Shire in order to refine his diplomatic skills. Or, as his sister puts it: to grow them at last. Now, throw in the Master of Bag End playing host for the dwarf prince: you’ll get a clash of cultures, an ill-advised bet about educating a certain hobbit in the dwarf-lore, and all the pride and prejudice business you could hope for, plus Khuzdul.

A retelling inspired by My Fair Lady. Bagginshield. AU. Shire & Erebor love. Novel length.

Thoughts: Thorin is such a shit in this story, and you can’t help but love him. The way they come together is slow and fraught but so believable and it romances me every time I re-read it. Great story to read if you love fleshed out characters who you want to hit over the head and smoosh their faces together at the same time.

UNIVERSALLY ACKNOWLEDGED by  mortuus_lingua

Summary: "My dear Mr. Baggins," she replied, "how can you be so tiresome! You must know that I am thinking of one of these unmarried king or princes marrying at least one of our Bagginses, and why not my Bilbo? He’s the prime of the lot."Smaug is defeated without the recruitment of a burglar, and several delegations, including one from the Shire, are invited to Thorin's public, official coronation. Bilbo, scribe, and bachelor, travel to Erebor with fourteen other Hobbits, embarking on an adventure that will change not only his destiny but those of many in Middle-earth. Or, the attempted Hobbit / Pride and Prejudice mashup that nobody asked for. Not to worry, knowledge of the plot of Pride and Prejudice is not necessary to understand this story. Bagginshield. AU. Courting Fic. Erebor Courting Fic. Lots of Hobbits.

Thoughts: I was very leery of this fic at first because I thought it might be just a standard Pride and Prejudice remake. To paraphrase a certain dwarf, I had never been so wrong in all my life. It blends the Regency life so well with the world of Tolkien that I was swooning. It seems to hit every single one of my favorite tropes of the bagginshield fandom (Bamf!Bilbo, enemiesToFriends, fleshed out OC’s, and MadBofurRespect, etc) but in a new and lovely light. It’s very Hobbit dense as well, which was refreshing and fun to read. I just can’t recommend this story enough.

COMES AROUND AGAIN by scarletjedi

Summary: Gimli closes his eyes, an old Dwarf on the brink of death in the home he had built with his husband in the Undying Lands, and opens them again as a young Dwarf in his childhood home in Ered Luin. He's returned to the tumultuous week before The Company set out to recruit their Burglar from his cosy hobbit hole. Gimli, once again an impetuous teen in the eyes of his family, must get into that Company--the lives of his loved ones, and the very fate of Middle Earth--depends on it. Gimli/Legolas. Bilbo/Thorin. TimeTravel-fix it.

Thoughts: I’m a big sucker for retellings of cannon, and this one is just lovely. I’m always leery of established relationship tags, but this story does the pining so well it feels like you get both for the price of one. Scarletjedi is also one of those authors who I would recommend reading through their entire catalog as well because there is not a dud amongst them.

A REMOVER OF OBSTACLES by MistakenMagic

Summary:  "Dis often chided her older brother for being a misanthropist. She did it so often it had become a term of endearment. It was true that Thorin struggled with people; he struggled to form and maintain relationships. Dr. Grey had diagnosed him with this and Thorin hadn’t the heart to tell him this wasn’t a symptom of his PTSD, it was a symptom of his personality. He exercised a sense of apathy with almost everyone he met… But Bilbo was different. Thorin actually found himself wanting to know more about him." Bagginshield. Novel Length 300k+. Modern AU.

Thoughts: A long story, that is going take up a week or two of your life, beat you up and wring you out, and you’re going to enjoy every minute of it.

A PASSION FOR MUSHROOMS by Chrononautical

Summary: There are many trials for a hobbit attempting to make a life among dwarves. A hobbit wants a garden. A hobbit wants to eat regular meals. A hobbit wants friends, good books, and comfortable chairs. Bilbo does his best to carve out a little hobbit life for himself in the mountain. If only there were not one final obstacle. For a hobbit heart wants love, and among dwarves that is a sticky subject. Bagginshield. Post BOFTA-fix it. Erebor Courting.

Thoughts: Oblivious pining idiots? Misunderstood courting? A fleshed out post-Bofta Erebor? Mushrooms?? What more could you want?

OAK AND MISTLETOE by HildyJ

Summary: After a life dominated by a strange form of sickness, Thorin is sent to the Shire to seek a cure only Bilbo Baggins can offer. Bagginshield. AU. Shire.

Thoughts: Pretty much all of HildyJ’s stories are a must read, but ‘Oak and Mistletoe’ remains’ my favorite. It’s a perfect rainy day read, that I’ve read so many times it’s become almost a habit. It’s a very deep character study into both Bilbo and Thorin and it’s impossible to not fall in love with both of them each time I read it.

SECOND CHANCES by authoressjean

Summary: Sebastian Moran can't pull the trigger on John Watson to save his own hide, and what the hell is it with the doctor, anyway? Then Gandalf shows up, meddlesome wizard, and reminds him none too gently of his past life: as Thorin Oakenshield, leader of a company that had once included a small hobbit named Bilbo Baggins. One that looked decidedly like John Watson. And this would be the perfect chance to make things right with Bilbo the way he really hadn't been able to before he died, and that's when Gandalf tells him John doesn't remember being Bilbo, and to leave him alone.

Right. Like that's going to happen. Bagginshield. Modern AU/Sherlock crossover.

Thoughts: I’ve never in all my 15+ years of fandom, ever, enjoyed crossover fics. It’s just not my bag. Which is why my love of this story completely caught me off guard. Even if you’re like me and you can’t stand the thought of it, I still recommend you give this a shot.

BURNED TO CINDER by  ferretbaby

Summary:  A Cinderella-esque AU. Bilbo, a lonely hobbit of the Shire in the valley outside Erebor, gets a job as a cook in the dwarf kingdom to pass the time and keep himself occupied after his mother’s death. One day he meets a regal dwarf, who he thinks is a thief and trespasser, and throws an apple at his head, never knowing he’s just assaulted the dwarven Prince. Thus begins the antagonistic and somewhat odd courtship of a hobbit and the next King of Erebor. Bagginshield. Cinderella AU. Erebor & Shire courting. Hidden Identity.

Thoughts: Unf. Just a superbly fun little AU that cannot be skipped over. The last chapter is missing but you really don’t need it to still feel satisfied at the ending. Has some extremely hot moments and some extremely lovely ones as well. Thorin is an absolute cad, but he eventually comes into his own.

AT THE STROKE OF MIDNIGHT by Wizards_Pupil

Summary: ““This is a trinket I was given at your birth. I have never shown you it as the time was not right before now.” Thrain opened his palm to reveal a golden band. It was smoothed by touch and unadorned. Not spectacular, but Thrain would hardly hold onto such a trinket if it was not worth something.

“The wizard who gave it to me was quite adamant that you should have it when you were of age.” The king held it out to Thorin. The metal was cool to the touch, but quickly warmed up in the heat of his hand. He ran his fingers along it and nearly shuddered. He could feel it throbbing, nearly vibrating with a strange sort of energy.

“This ring is not meant for you to wear, of course. It is too small for you. This ring is made to fit only the person that will be your Sanzeuh. You have thirty days in which to find him.”Thirty days. Thirty days to find something as ridiculous as true love, or he'd have to marry a beardless, nagging dwarrowdame. Thorin Oakenshield didn't think it could happen.

And then Bilbo Baggins popped into his life. Though, Thorin could have done without the cats, shoes, and girly bits. Still, the course of true love never has run smooth. And the peppers were delightful.” Bagginshield. AU. Erebor Courting.

Thoughts: Such a fantastic courting story. I’m always initially leery of AU’s but this keeps them so close to their actual personalities to make it exciting and new while still letting you bask in their familiarness. It’s such an original idea touching so close to the tip of so many other cliche’s while missing them enough to be something totally new on it’s own. Not to mention, Bilbo’s and Thorin’s flirting is top notch in this. Can’t recommend enough!

THE DEEPEST SECRET by Wizards_Pupil

Summary: Bilbo Baggins was a desperate Hobbit.

Well, he was several things. Short, funny, hungry, and tired for starts. Desperate was at the forefront of his mind at the moment.

He would never be at Oakenshield Manor otherwise. Still, they needed a gardener, and as much as he didn'tknow about dwarves, he did know about plants.

Bilbo expected it to be difficult. Dwarves were hardly known to be the most accepting and open of races after all. He expected the garden to be in terrible shape, the dwarves to be loud, and secretive.

He could never have expected Thorin. Bagginshield. AU.

Thoughts: While the author has stated that this was not specifically a Jane eyre-Au it definitely has a similar feel. It’s just as haunting and just as lovely. There are constant surprises to keep you on your toes, and Thorin and Bilbo are both absolutely delicious in this. I’ve re-read it an untold amount of times.

LOVE-IN-IDLENESS by perkynurples

Summary:  Taking Bilbo Baggins, a successful movie actor who is only just getting used to the perks and intricacies of becoming A Face People Want To See, and putting him together with Thorin Oakenshield, with his very traditional (read: slightly backwards) ideas about what constitutes Real Art and Real Talent, might very well be viewed as just some clothead’s idea of a joke. But there are jokes, and then there are carefully calculated risks the size of controversial reproductions of classic Shakespearean plays - for Bilbo, it is the chance of a lifetime to prove himself to all those who have ever deemed him too one-dimensional to even attempt stage, while Thorin has the opportunity to get out of the rut that’s been hindering his career for so long now, and shine in a role worthy of his talent once again. That is if the two learn how to share the same space for more than ten minutes without wanting to tear each other’s hair out. The course of true love never did run smooth, after all… Bagginshield. Modern Au. Novel Length.

Thoughts: I feel like every fandom in the world has that one Modern AU that boils down that pairing to its very essence and then wraps it up into an entirely new package and delivers it gift wrapped to you. This is that story. It has nothing to do with Tolkein’s world, but instead gives you an entirely new plot set in the real relatable world. Still, the characters, their motivations, and even the plot are so close to the real story that it feels like an honor getting to read it.

A DRAGON’S TALE by vtforpedro

Summary: Bilbo Baggins has been a hobbit for many long years and he should very much like to keep it that way, thank you very much.

An old friend drops by Bag End with the offer of an adventure and despite Bilbo's refusal, the idea of only thirteen dwarves and a wizard facing a dragon may just convince him yet. After all, he has experience with the Great Dragons of the North. Once upon a time, he was one. Bagginshield. AU. BilboIsADragon!

Thoughts: First Dragon!Bilbo story and still one that I re-read again and again.

TO CHANGE THE COURSE OF THE FUTURE by authoressjean

Summary: "Even the smallest person can change the course of the future." - Galadriel

In an attempt to get the Arkenstone back for Thorin, Bilbo discovers the ring he's been using is the One Ring. Seized by a need to destroy gold, especially gold with the ability to ensnare creature and king alike, he sets out alone for Mordor. Anything to forget about the love that gold cost him. What he doesn't know is that Thorin is no longer under the thrall of gold, and is desperately racing to catch up with him to keep him safe. They may have just started on another adventure, but this one may not end as well as their first quest. Bagginshield. Post Bofta-Fix it. Lotr re-imagining. Novel Length.

Thoughts: These boys break my heart in this story with their palpable pining, but it’s so worth it to see their romance drawn out from the small words of Erebor and the Shire and basically become this grand epic love story that spreads all across Middle Earth.

THE RIVEN CROWN by The_Kingmaker

Summary: ‘We may have won the battle, but I fear the war with winter is just beginning.’

The aftermath of war is no laughing matter. Those who died must be honored, those who are wounded must be healed, and those who remain need food and clothing, peace and sanctuary. With Thorin's life hanging in the balance, it is up to Bilbo and the rest of the Company to rule the rag-tag remnants of Erebor in his place.

Then there is the matter of the gold...

Can Bilbo save both king and kingdom, or is Erebor destined to fall deeper into ruin?  Bagginshield. Post-BOFTA. FakeMarriage. Novel Length.

Thoughts: This story really hits all my spots.  Pretend Marriage, politics, in-depth story, oblivious and pining idiots. It’s my go-to read after finishing BOFTA to help heal the suffering and give me hope. I love the way they fully utilize the entire cannon world to tell a truly epic romance. Please read this if you get a chance.

LAY YOUR TROUBLES DOWN by Avelera

Summary:  An extended version of "the acorn scene." Bilbo sees his chance to snap Thorin out of his madness, and takes it. Bagginshield. BOFTA-fix it.

Thoughts: This was one of the most emotional porns I’ve ever read and I loved every second of it.

SOMETHING BLUE by Lapin

Summary:  Thorin marries Bilbo after the Battle of Five Armies, a marriage of convenience, not love. Slowly, they must come to make the best of it, Bilbo resolves. After all, he's a Hobbit. They make the best of things. Bagginshield. Post-Bofta. Pretend Marriage.

Thoughts: Short read and an absolute classic that’s undoubtedly included on every rec list, but I couldn’t not include it. The obliviousness and mutual pining are so delicious you could put in a plate and charge $100 to eat it, and you wouldn’t regret it a bit.

KING, COME RED AT MORNING by Tawabids

Summary: Bilbo has heard fairytales of the lost prince of the dwarves, Thorin son of Thrain, who disappeared the day Smaug attacked the Lonely Mountain. But he does not believe in fairy tales until he comes across the dwarf sleeping in the depths of Erebor, and kisses him back to life.

Now Thorin - a hundred and fifty years out of his time - has to confront a world in which his city is empty, his people scattered, his baby brother Frerin is king, two nephews he's never met are missing in action, and a war is brewing right on his doorstep.

And as if that wasn't complicated enough he's trapped in the body of an old man and falling stupidly in love with a gossipy, grudging little hobbit. Bagginshield. AU. Novel Length. Battle of the Five Armies retelling. Angst.

Thoughts:  I put this one off for a while, but it lived up to every promise that the summary and multiple recs had made for it.  Young Thorin is definitely a joy to read, and both his and Bilbo’s struggles never stop being so very painfully  relatable.   Prepare yourself for the angst though, as it’s almost palpable, but it’s definitely a must read.

PRAYERS TO BROKEN STONE by Avelera

Summary: Twisted by the effects of dragon sickness, Thorin banishes not only Bilbo but the entire company from Erebor. Days pass with no word from their missing leader and, fearing the effects the gold may have on the other dwarves, Bilbo decides to enter the mountain alone in search of Thorin.

What he finds may not be Thorin for much longer.

Or: In which the dragon sickness is slowly transforming Thorin into a dragon, and Bilbo must save him before it is too late. Bagginshield. BOFTA-Fix it. Angst.

Thoughts: This fic was made to hurt me when I need it the most. If I could draw, the cover of this story would just be Thorin stabbing me over and over again in the chest. It also has inspired me so much I ended up writing an entire DnD campaign because of it. Please read it if you have not.

GARDENING by The Feels Whale (miscellea)

Summary: Bilbo Baggins arrived home late one afternoon in the middle of the week and the entire west Farthing is still talking about it.

Poor Mister Baggins. He was doomed to be a nine-days wonder no matter what and is it any wonder after a year-long adventure? Even the Tooks haven’t the influence to hush that up, but Mad Baggins seems to have managed to silence every tongue in the Shire on that subject which would be awe-inspiring ...if not for the way he decided to go about it.

OR: That one where Middle Earth seems to be unclear about where baby Hobbits come from. Bagginshield. M-Preg-ish.

Thoughts: To say that I’m not a fan of M-preg is a bit of an understatement, but the way this story handles it never squicked me out once. It’s heartwarming and angsty all in one and I enjoy it every time I re-read it.

Tamâmebrulu Id-Mudtu (Lullabies of the Heart) by rutobuka

Summary:  As it turns out, even kings catch colds. After the reclamation of Erebor, Thorin finds himself confined to his bed. Luckily, his dear friend Bilbo Baggins is on hand to ensure he complies with Óin's strict orders for rest. (A multi-chapter Bagginshield comic). Bagginshield. Comic.

Thoughts: I doubt there is anyone in the Bagginshield fandom who has not seen ruto’s art or stories, but just in case you need to go check out everything of her’s right the heck now. Her art is basically Bagginshield cannon, and her fem!Bagginshield stories are the best ever written.

OF WARM IMPERMANENCE by Avelera

Summary: Thorin realizes he has gained weight since moving to the Shire, and tries to hide it from Bilbo out of shame and uncertainty of whether it will damage their relationship.Of course Bilbo finds out and, far from disappointed, he’s fairly certain he’s never been so turned on in his life. Bagginshield. Smut. Shire living.

Thoughts: I’m not sure is ruto’s art or this story were the beginning of my obsession with Chubby Thorin, but it definitely had a hand it.

BLESS YOUR SOLES by freakylemurcat

Summary: Feet were sacred to dwarves, and Thorin had always done his best to adhere to the rules and keep his feet to himself. And then comes along Bilbo Baggins with his ever bare feet, and Thorin suddenly finds he can't think of anything else. Bagginshield. Smut.

Thoughts: Just the best little smutty store that we all need but don’t deserve.

LADY IN RED by  windchijmes

Summary: Dwalin and Thorin are traveling together, and they find themselves in a ridiculous situation where Thorin has to disguise himself as a woman at a tavern. The effect is more interesting than they both expect - Thorin is openly leered at and propositioned and he fumes about it, while Dwalin enjoys himself playing the big, bad protector of his lady's innocence. But of course, the tension gets too much, and Dwalin drags Thorin away, hikes up his skirt, and fucks him against a tree. Thwalin. Pre-Journey. Smut.

Thoughts: Lovely little Thwalin smut fic that I can’t get enough of. Short, less than 10k, but I bookmarked for a damn good reason, and that reason is that it’s HOT and you should definitely give it a read.

THE EMPTY BELLIES DINING SOCIETY by sam_ptarmigan

Summary: Bilbo and Dwalin have two things in common: an appreciation for good meals and a case of unrequited love for a certain oblivious king. The only sensible thing to do is form a supper club. Bilbo/Thorin/Dwalin. Short.

Thoughts: After reading a thousand bagginshield fics there was nothing that I craved more than a good, solid, OT3 fics with these three and this one always hits the spot. The pining is on point, and Dwalin is so fantastically done. Even if you’re leary of reading an OT3 you should still give this bad boy a chance. And then hopefully you’ll fall in love with this pairing and write it because good god I need some more of it.

SMELL THE SEA AND FEEL THE SKY by Thorinsmut

Summary: Captain Dwalin - a privateer for the Crown - is in love with beautiful, sweet, innocent Lady Norine.

His main rival (whom he is most definitely not in lust with) is the cockiest little man he ever met - Captain Vulpes, a pirate with a fast mongrel of a ship and a bad habit of stealing his targets out from under his nose

....it's going to take him a while to realize they're the same genderfluid person.

Thoughts: If this story doesn’t make you fall in love Nori/Dwalin, you’re just absolutely doing something wrong with your life.

LITTLE INDULGENCES by sam_ptarmigan

Summary:  Dwalin is not entirely certain how he ended up propped up against a tree with his trousers down and Dori kneeling in front of him, but he's pretty sure good things are about to happen. Dwalin/Dori. SMUT

Thoughts: To call this a rare-pair is pretty self-evident but the porn is 11/10 and deserves to be read by everybody.

AND OF COURSE...

SANSUKH by determamfidd

Summary: The battle was over, and Thorin Oakenshield awoke, naked and shivering, in the Halls of his Ancestors. The novelty of being dead fades quickly, and watching over his companions soon fills him with grief and guilt. Oddly, a faint flicker of hope arises in the form of his youngest kinsman, a Dwarf of Durin's line with bright red hair. (Follows the story of the War of the Ring). Bagginshield. Gigolas. Cannon Compliant. LOTR retelling. 500k+. Not finished.

Thoughts: I don’t know what I could say about Sansukh that hasn’t been said a million times before but I just can’t repeat enough how much this story needs to be read. I know that seeing 500K words and WIP is going to scare a lot of people off - as it did me for a long time - but you’re just gonna have to put on your big girl panties and dive on in anyway and you will not regret a second of it. It will honestly raise your standard of what you think fanfiction can be for the rest of your life and this is not a bad thing. If you’re still not convinced, here’s a very impassioned post that will help give you that final push: here.

[boricuareads]

Ten (10) Young Adult Books by Muslim Women You Should BUY (Or Keep an Eye On) As a Middle Finger to the Tr*mp Administration

(And also to better your life because they’re fab)

If you’re like me, and you can’t take your eyes off the ongoing trainwreck that is the U.S. Government, you’re probably thinking about how you can get to work on dismantling the system which has allowed these gross people to maintain power. On June 26th, 2018, the U.S. Supreme Court declared that Tr*mp’s discriminatory “Muslim Ban” was… okay.

Two weeks ago, Muslims around the world were celebrating Eid, the end of their holy month of fasting. Around that time, I thought of maybe posting a list of books by Muslim authors, but I never got around to it. After this week’s news, however, I changed my mind.

Sometimes, merely telling people to support marginalized authors is a radical act itself. In a world that actively works on keeping them in the margins, these authors are out here proving to the world that everybody deserves a chance to be heard.

Muslim-American teen Noel Said Hassan wrote:

“Being Different

Basically means

Being true to the person you are and who you want to be.

Being Different

Basically means

Being a flower instead of a tree in the big forest that everyone else wants to be.

Being Different

Basically means

Not following society’s orders.”

There is truth in not following the norms. There is truth in your humanity. There is truth in words, because writing is a radical act, especially in the face of oppression and bigotry.

So, for today’s list, I’m sharing ten (10) YA books by Muslim women, all of whom are out here being unapologetic in their faith and in their identities.

1. Saints and Misfits by S.K. Ali: All Janna wants is to be a photographer, and find a way to fit in. Living in a small apartment with her mom and spoiled brother, that may be a problem. Also a problem: Janna can’t deal with her trauma while her abuser walks around her mosque like nothing is wrong. (Out now!)

2. Does My Head Look Big In This? by Randa Abdel-Fattah: When Amal starts wearing her hijab full-time, everyone around her has an opinion about it. Some of these people are encouraging, others confused. But there are some who are out to give her a lot of grief. (Out now!)

3. Written in the Stars by Aisha Saeed: Naila is a normal Pakistani girl who just wants to go to college and be with her boyfriend, Saif. Except, her conservative parents find out about her relationship, shipping her off to Pakistan to marry, effectively cutting her off from everything and everyone she knows and loves. (Out now!)

4. The Ember Quartet by Sabaa Tahir: A lush, brutal fantasy series that follows the lives of a girl finding courage in the bleakest circumstances, and a boy groomed to be the finest killer  who just wishes to be free. (First three books are out now!)

5. Not the Girls You’re Looking For by Aminah Mae Safi: Lulu Saad is an unapologetic girl who just wants to be with her best friends and do normal teenager things. Except she might be doing certain things that could be deemed Messy. (Out now!)

6. Love, Hate & Other Filters by Samira Ahmed: Maya Aziz wants to go to film school in New York, but after a hate crime shakes the way the community sees her and her Muslim family, those plans might just be out the window. (Out now!)

7. A Very Large Expanse of Sea by Tahereh Mafi: After 9/11, Shirin copes with the outright islamophobia she faces in the only ways she can: a thick skin, listening to loud music, and break-dancing with her brother. Until Ocean James comes along, and her wall threatens to fall down... (Release date: 10/16/2018; you can read an excerpt here)

8. Mirage by Somaiya Daud: Amani dreams of becoming a poet, only to find out she looks just like a cruel Princess. To make matters worse, she’s enjoying her time with the Princess’ fiance. (Relase date: 08/28/2018; you can read an excerpt here)

9. The Love and Lies of Rukhsana Ali by Sabina Khan: Seventeen-year old Rukhsana is sent to Bangladesh by her conservative parents when they find out she’s been kissing girls. (Release date: 01/29/2019; you can read an excerpt here)  

10. We Hunt the Flame by Hafsah Faizal: An Huntress tasked with a mysterious quest. A Prince tasked with killing her. Elves. Really, this should be all you need to know about this book. (Release date: 05/14/ 2019; you can read the official synopsis here)

There are books in this list that deal with some triggering issues like sexual assault and domestic abuse, to name a few, so I suggest you seek out reviews and trigger warnings before delving into them.

If you wish to read a more comprehensive list of books by Muslim authors or Muslim creatives, you should check out Avid Reader’s list of 100+ Muslim Books and creators. You can also check out this list of 10 Contemporary Novels By and About Muslims from Lithub.

If you want to know how to be more active in your work or knowledgeable of where to donate your money, here are resources from the ACLU (donate here) about what to do when encountering law enforcement at airports and other ports of entry, from Muslim Advocates (donate here), and from the Texas Muslim Women’s Foundation (donate here). Or just, y’know, use Google.

I have more rec lists, as well as edits, book reviews, and other fun stuff. You can follow me on Twitter and Instagram @boricuareads.

[yoyoplisetsky]

I decided that in order to put a little more positivity and love in this fandom, I wanted to do a fic rec list every week of every fic that I read and write. It’s a long post, but I’m not sorry. They’re organized in the order that I read them or wrote them, from least recent to most recent. Got suggestions for me, or want to scream about some on this list? Come talk to me, I want them all!

THINGS I READ THIS WEEK (~5/20-5/27):

come on baby, let’s do the twist! - renaissance - The year is 1964, the Winter Olympics are in full swing, and Yakov is determined to win gold and be himself—and, of course, show his beautiful and perfect girlfriend Lilia how much he loves her. (My review: look i super love yakov, and this fic is a very cute taste of past!yakov. loved it.)

somewhere in your shadow i - seventhstar - four times yuuri used the internet to secretly love viktor nikiforov and one time he proclaimed it to the whole world (My review: this was adorable, i loved it. awesome story about yuuri on the internet and in love with viktor <33)

set sail from sense (ch. 1) - spookyfoot - Dancer/Choreographer Katsuki Yuuri and Singer/Songwriter Victor Nikiforov are finally Twitter official. The catch? It's for the "fake" role-play accounts they use to escape the pressure of their official images — and neither of them know that the "fake" celebrity they're talking to is actually the real deal. (My review: Have I mentioned I love social media fics? I love social media fics. This was very cute, and I can’t wait for spooky’s update <3)

Mine (Ch 1-3) - JMonCheri - Wherein famous actors Yuuri Katsuki and Viktor Nikiforov are forced to fake a relationship for mere reasons such as fame, money, and for teenage girls to make thesis long rants about them on Tumblr. A pact is made, then things snowball into a complete mess, and ya'll already get the idea where this is going... (My review: I love actor aus, and this one is written very charmingly, I love it)

The Bulge (Don’t Bring a Weapon to a Public Beach) - nagoyadelay - Victor posts a photo of Yuuri on instagram without realizing that it’s somewhat suggestive.A thirsty skating fandom collectively loses their shit. (My review: This fic is hilarious. Would recommend).

Kiss for The Greater Cause - Verudaru (veldygee) - Yuuri somehow managed to crack the dance studio's mirror wall. Phichit came up with an idea to come up with quick money. (My review: Also adorable and very funny. Loved it!)

Baby, I’m Preying on You Tonight (Ch. 5) - cuttlemefish - Yuuri and Phichit registered and named the pet shop when they were drunk. They didn’t exactly expect it to become the most popular pet shop in Seattle. (It was only supposed to be a front to fund Phichit’s (undercover) animal rescue missions.) Enter Viktor Nikiforov, the man with the pink Cadillac and the giant brown poodle (that's stolen Yuuri's heart), and Yuuri might have lost his mind, because apparently he keeps flirting with a client – and he never even notices. (My review: THIS FIC IS REALLY CUTE would recommend)

Espresso - withoutwingsx -  Prompt- You kicked two guys out for being rude but turns out they were a couple and now everyone including your crush thinks you're homophobic but you're actually 100% homosexual aka  Yuuri was not dealing with this shit today. (My review: Ahh, this was very well characterized, I adored it)

Pop Culture 101 - katsukiy - Yuuri makes Viktor sit through the entirety of The Star Wars series for a set of mostly selfish reasons. (My review: Yuuri and Viktor “”””””watch””””” Star Wars. A+)

whatever the mess you are, you’re mine (Ch. 1) - spookyfoot - Yuuri Katsuki's treading water after a humiliating failed audition for Megalopolis's premier ballet company, the Stammi Vicino Ballet. Meanwhile, 5 years post-forced retirement from a career ending injury, former SVB premier danseur Victor Nikiforov has established the city's hottest party planning company — but no one in his life seems to realize he's stuck in a holding pattern.When their paths cross at the annual Yu-topia Akatsuki friends and family banquet Victor's standard booking becomes anything but as shift the tides of one another's lives.  (My reivew: VikNik’s PikNiks was just as cute as I expected and I can’t wait for more)

Giacometti & Co. - Anna (artic_grey) - Against his shoulder and into the fabric of his t-shirt, Yuuri mumbled, “HaveyoueversleptwithChris?”He choked on his breath. Oh. Uh. “Errrr…” His mind raced. “A little?” aka the fic where both Viktor and Yuuri have slept with Chris. (My review: I love past Viktor/Chris, and I love past Yuuri/Chris, so this was awesome)

you can have my everything - spookyfoot - 3 times Yuuri strips out of self interest and 1 time he strips out of love.Featuring: high-stakes Monopoly, novelty aprons, aborted role-play, and a lot of banter. It's approximately 80% banter. (My review: a very cute story about yuuri stripping for himself, and then for viktor ;) )

#LoveHotelsAreAwesome - lucycamui - After the Grand Prix, Victor drags Yuuri to go sightseeing in Tokyo and stumbles onto an interesting aspect of Japanese culture... “Yuuri, what are all those?” Yuuri looked down the street that Victor indicated, as first seeing nothing out of the ordinary, but then realized that it was the buildings themselves that had caught his coach’s attention. “Well, uhh…” His heart sank a little when Victor started down the street, examinging blown-up display photos, with one of a room made up to look like the stereotypical image of a tropical resort. “They’re… love hotels.” (My Review: Ahh, this is adorable. Viktor Nikiforov is a ridiculous dork and I love him)

The one where Viktor Nikiforov is Gordon Ramsay - Eriskay - “Remember how I have a primetime show where I insult professional chefs for any dish that’s mediocre or worse? Forgive me if I’m reluctant to assume that your boyfriend’s friends will be okay with me crashing their potluck dinner.” In the end, Viktor does end up coming along for dinner. There, he meets Yuuri Katsuki, a man with a special talent for finding just the right balance between different flavours, and a smile as sweet as meringue. (My review: ahhh, this was super cute!)

Accidentally in marriage (Ch 4) - totaldislocation - Yuuri Katsuki, one of the dime-a-dozen top figure skaters certified by the JSF, ends in last place at his first Grand Prix Final after bombing his performance. When he thinks things couldn't get worse, he wakes up absolutely hangovered in an unknown hotel room with no recollection of what happened the previous night. Next to him is his idol Victor Nikiforov, now legally his husband. (My review: I love fake/accidentally dating/marriage, so this is right up my alley and super well written and adorable)

The Genevan Paso Doble - FullmetalChords - Insurance investigator Victor Nikiforov's world is turned upside down one night in Geneva, when he comes face to face for the first time with the thief he comes to call "Eros". Little does he know that their chance encounter will change the course of his life forever. (My review: this fic is so incredibly sweet and also nicely written wow i loved it)

THINGS I WROTE THIS WEEK (~5/20-5/27):

the “real” viktor nikiforov (Ch. 8) - So, fine, maybe Yuuri's a little bored and lonely when he likes a dating profile claiming to be Viktor Nikiforov. And, maybe, he's a little pathetic when he gets excited when the account messages him almost immediately after. And, he's definitely stupid for falling in love with someone pretending to be his idol, but he can't help it. It's not like it's the real Viktor Nikiforov, anyway. He knows someone is catfishing him, but he still falls ridiculously in love. (Or: The catfish au where they’re really sappily in love and I can’t stop them)

how to steal a gold medal stealthily - Viktor probably shouldn't have made the rule that they couldn't get married until Yuuri had a gold medal with so few major competitions left that season. It was a mistake that led to a series of very strange Google searches in the Katuski-Nikiforov household. Or, well, they weren't married, were they? So the household in which Viktor Nikiforov and Katsuki Yuuri lived, in love, but not married. Because Yuuri didn't have a gold medal. Yet. (Or: Viktor was an idiot, and Yuuri understands how to work Google)

deal or no deal? - Viktor Nikiforov would literally sell his soul to marry the love of his life, Yuuri Katsuki. Literally. (Or: Cary, I cannot believe you started a Supernatural au)

a kiss for a dish - Yuuri was sick of Viktor continuously leaving dishes in his and Phichit's apartment, and was going to do something about it. For a week, Viktor only got as many kisses as dishes he cleaned, unless he did them all. Also, they're in college, and three of them are strippers. (Or: The soft strippers college au fic feat. dishcourse)

[lamiaward]

Books

the inspiration for this were the books recs I sometimes see/reblog and my never-ending frustration because there are awesome series that don’t get enough acknowledgment

Stravaganza

-dimension travels! The other dimension is like Italy but then two centuries ago ( although there are some differences with ‘our’ Italy from two centuries ago. Like how Bellaza- the dimension’s Venice- doesn’t have a doge but a duchessa : D) , although it definitely has its differences.

-each book ( there are 6 but there might be more!! The author said she has plans for more books) has a new protagonist. Protagonists are really diverse!! You have girls, boys, black people, white people.. one guy has dyslexia, another one is suffering from cancer, there is a girl who self-harms, one that is bullied et cetera.  I mean, I am pretty sure there could be improvements (I don’t remember any gay characters, for example/ there was only one non-white protagonist I think?) but it does have diversity. The characters themselves are definitely round characters, and I remember liking all of them .

-okay so one of the mayor plot points is this family called Di Chimici ( like the entire alternate dimension it is based on reality, in this case on a family called de Medici’s ) that threaten to kind of ruin everything. They are really powerful ( we are talking grand dukes and all that shit). They are kind of like the Borgia’s. So spies and murder and all that.

 it is well-written, never boring, sometimes hilarious and has cool characters and a good plot.

Site : http://www.stravaganza.co.uk/

Every day – David Levithan

-this book. I love it. SO MUCH

okay so plot: the protagonist doesn’t have their own body but instead wakes up every day as another person. Which is okay- until they fall in love when they are in the body of someone’s boyfriend. Cue them trying to figure that all out

it is really thought-provoking/ smart.

Because A( the protagonist) wakes up as someone else every day, we get a lot of different people. BTW A also say they do not get attracted to genders, they are attracted to people/ that they do not really feel like they are either boy or girl.  there is just a lot of respect for all kinds of people, that is what I get from this book. Like there is one person with depression and the way A talks about it- about how difficult it is and everything, that just hit a note with me [ also the general way A reacts when they are in a new body ]

it is just really well-written and touching and amazing y’all

Wardstone Chronicles / the last apprentice

I already made a post about this one once, but I am going to include it anyways

-it is about a boy, Tom, who becomes the apprentice to the Spook. The Spook is a guy who fights the Dark ( witches, boggarts, and so on) and only the seventh son* of a seventh son has the abilities that you need to become a Spook.  The Spook is kind of a grumpy asshole but he will probably grow on you because he is actually pretty awesome beneath all the layers of assholery.

There are three characters that are the most important ( although you have some that reoccur and are pretty central to the plot) : Tom, the Spook and Alice. Alice lives with Bony Lizzy, her relative who is hella dark. Like, she uses blood magic and just kills people. Alice is a really complex character, who struggles a lot because her family consists of dark witches but she doesn’t really want to be that way. She is witty, strong and a very good friend. Tom is the protagonist. He is sweet, brave and courageous ( also such a momma’s boy wow). He also tries really hard to do the right thing, which I mention because there are some moments in the series where this becomes really difficult for him. The Spook is grumpy, anti-social and really strict. He does actually care  though, and your opinion about him will probably change because he does change when the series continues.

Something else that I love about this series : GRIMALKIN: she is a witch assassin who carves her sign, a pair of scissors ( the same one she uses to take her victims’ thumbs because the thumbs are obviously the very powerful magic) on trees so everyone gets terrified. I love her because her character isn’t just one of the bad guys. She seems that way but there is so much more going on.

-Okay, the creatures in this series are really cool. You notice that the author has actually put a lot of thought in his Universe.

There are strong female characters. Oh and I don’t know whether the author has done it on purpose but Grimalkin  definitely seems asexual/aromantic. There is no talk of people she has loved or anything, and the only ‘relationship ‘ she had was when she boned the Devil so he would leave her the heck alone ( the witches can make a deal with the Devil where if they carry his child, he can no longer bother them) [ sorry for that spoiler btw] I am not sure whether there are any official lbgtqa characters. I don’t remember – I read the last book about 2 years ago and I have reread parts of the series but I haven’t had time for a complete reread. And I think most of the characters are white although Grimalkin looks like this:

 ALSO there is a ship that is so amazing. It is the enemies to best friends to babies in forbidden love thing and they are both amazing characters ( although I like the girl character a lot more oops) and there is a lot of build-up and everything

I wouldn’t read the last book in the series, as it pissed me off for months. The rest of the books are generally amazing though

*in Delaney’s second series based in this universe, there is actually a seventh daughter who has powers but in the Wardstone Chronicles they say it is the seventh sons of a seventh son that become spooks, not daughters

Site: https://www.spooksworld.co.uk/qa-page

Anna dressed in blood

!!!!!!

*our main characters : Anna and Cas. Cas is a sassy, kind of cynical teenager that has ‘inherited’ his dad’s job to hunt and kill ghosts. Anna is his latest ‘target’, but there is a lot more going on than you would think with her. Cas also has two friends : Carmel ( the most popular girl at school who is kind and smart and doesn’t shy back from kicking ghost ass if needed to defend her friends ) and Thomas ( who is a witch and kind of a dork).

*this book has a lot of flow , and you will read through it pretty fast. It also remains interesting all the time – partly because Anna is kind of a mystery.

there is a second book. Don’t read that unless you like your soul to be crushed ( it is still pretty good actually, but I much prefer the first book)

I don’t remember there being any lgbtqa characters : (  :  (  I am not sure about the ethnicities of the four main characters, but I will edit this post as soon as I know.  

The author’s site: http://kendareblake.com/books/

Rainbow Rowell – carry on

[ lots of people probably already know this one but oh well. I really liked it! ]

*magic school with the ‘chosen’ one except a chosen one who can’t really make their powers work properly. And whose roommate is a vampire

*there are a lot of things that will remind you of Harry Potter, but it also has its own rules of magic/ plot points and so on.

the characters are pretty amazing. Simon ( the ‘chosen’ one) kind of reminds me of a big puppy, my poor child. Baz- his vampire roommate- is really snarky and they ‘hate’ each other ( wink wink) , mainly because Baz is part of one of the families of ancient powers and Simon’s ( I am gonna call him foster parent because I don’t have a better word for him) kind of took away all their power and is , in fact, pretty shitty to them. Anyways, Baz is the ‘seems evil but is actually a cinnamon roll who can’t deal with emotions’ person. Other characters include Agatha- pretty, popular, just wants to be Normal and none of this magic shit damn it- who is a really good friend to Simon and his girlfriend ( it doesn’t last, they don’t really work)  - and Penny-  Simon’s best friend who is super talented, confident and doesn’t want too many friends lol . No but really, they’re all pretty great. Although my favourites are Penny/ Baz.

there are gay characters and bisexual characters[ okay I have to admit I don’t remember whether they actually said they did love the opposite sex as well/ it wasn’t just heteronormativity thing or whatever but I am pretty sure they are bi]  and Penny isn’t white.

Pretty much anything by Rick Riordan to be honest

[ another well-known author but I am going to include him because I love his series okay?]

Okay so basically all his series are kind of modern au’s of mythology ( Greek/Egyptian/Norse) focused on the demi-gods of today/ with guest appearances of their godly parents.

Percy Jackson – pro’s :  it kind of makes being dyslexic a supertalent because demigods all are. Strong female characters. It is very funny( Percy is the sassiest little shit, I swear) but also has really serious/ even pretty dark moments. Also, the universe is so awesome?!  Cons : it is the whitest, straightest series Riordan has written . HOWEVER, it is all kind of really deceitful , as we learn in later series where characters from this series resurface . [also the hunters of Artemis literally have to swear off men so… you could make a case for them being aro/ace or lesbians or ….]

Heroes of Olympus – very compelling, very diverse characters. Also still has Percy[ although the first two books he has amnesia ] tell parts of the story so lots of sarcasm and all that. The Greek gods now also have Roman aspects [that kind of drive them _literally _crazy btw]. The universe Riordan created in PJO is expanded – we have some of the old characters paired with new characters and it is _beautiful. _Also a gay character, my poor baby. And some other characters who def. aren’t straight.

Kane chronicles- Egyptian gods. It is about a sibling duo ( who have actually been separated for quite a while) Sadie and Carter. They are both compelling characters in their own way, and I think the sibling relationship is pretty on point. They take turns telling the story btw. I really love these series as well, partly because I think Riordan just creates really rich universes that just draw you in. Carter isn’t white, Sadie is, and I don’t think that there any lgbtqa characters. There might be some implied ones?  [ again, read this series a while ago. Didn’t have time for a reread]

The Apollo trials- Apollo loses his godhood and has to go on a quest. He is so bisexual, I LOVE it. Also, we discover more about the gods’ sexuality and gods in general because Apollo comments on it and it is pretty hilarious because he, too, is snarky. There is also character development. ALSO IT IS REVEALED THAT A MALE GOD CAN HAVE A CHILD WITH A MALE HUMAN ISN’T THAT AWESOME? [ and I am 100% sure a female goddess can also have a child with another woman- especially because Athena’s kids are brain kids so she doesn’t get them by having sex]

I am going to read ( I have just purchased the first book) Magnus Chase as well, which is Norse mythology and I heard it had a trans character and a Muslim one :  ) [ don’t know for sure whether it is the same one ]  

 Okay, I am going to stop now but I will take a look at my bookcase and maybe continue this list/ make another post about it. [ oh and I didn’t reread anything I read so sorry for any grammar mistakes or whatever]

[antmanandthewasp]

sherlock/john fanfic recs!

“You can file it in our archives, Watson. Someday, the true story may be told.” Sherlock Holmes

Waking You Up by brbsoulnomming (T)

John dies and Sherlock blames himself, so much so that the guilt begins to affect his life. However, he keeps getting dreams of John talking to him and assuring him that he's not dead. 

Our Enthusiasms Which Cannot Always Be Explained by withoutawish (M) 

The list that is tacked haphazardly on the refrigerator of 221B reads, ‘Kidney(s), and/or a full cadaver (preferably male, late 30s, under six feet tall), bag of fresh toes, sixteen cow’s eyes (corneas retained), dual exhaust hand –held flame thrower, an unopened first edition copy of Joseph Conrad’s 'Heart of Darkness', and no less than ten abhorrently gruesome murders in the upcoming month.” The one neatly hanging next to it simply reads, “Sex.”One of these lists is not John Watson’s.

If John Watson were to put what he really wanted in list form, to live in a land somewhere beyond ‘almosts' now that Sherlock Holmes has indeed returned to him, he would never be able to look his flatmate in the eye ever again.

The River Variations by withoutawish (T)

John Watson never knew that he wanted a ‘no toast in the mornings’ normal until he realized what an honor it is to be destroyed by Sherlock Holmes.

What John Doesn’t Know (Won’t Hurt Him) by blueink3 (presumably T)

Five people who see Sherlock's scars before John Watson. But Sherlock's secrets were never something he could keep from his blogger for long.

Leave the Signs and the Sirens by out_there (Gen)

After John's released and back home at Baker St, Sherlock still feels it. Down the centre of his chest there's an ache like a healing wound. A physical awareness of a body he usually ignores as much as he can. It's psychosomatic, nothing more interesting than that.

(Post-S1 AU)

A Quiet Murmuration by cathedral_carver (T)

Just pay me back with one thousand kisses.

Cornish Cottage by flawedamythyst (T): 

In the wake of John's divorce, Sherlock tries to cheer him up with a trip to Cornwall. Adaptation of ACD's The Adventure of the Devil's Foot.

Parallel by brbsoulnomming (M)

There's a case at a secondary school/University, some series of threats or string of bizarre murders that has the entire campus shaken. In the course of the investigation, Sherlock and John meet two students. One is well liked if not popular, athletic, intelligent without showing off, involved only because they were close to a victim or witnessed something important. The other is a loner with no regard for social norms, an insufferable genius, always in the chem lab, and involved because everyone, including teachers/professors, think they're behind everything.

Sherlock and John are responsible for these two meeting. And, because they both want to help with the investigation, they get to watch them become friends and fall a little in love. And that makes them feel things about themselves that they've been working very hard to not feel, thank you.

Break My Step and Relent by geordielover (T)

The kidnapper looks completely startled, staring up at John with wild eyes. John understands; he’s a small man, himself, and while some would consider that to be a hindrance in a fight, John thinks of it as a tactical advantage.

What if John Watson had a Tumblr? by honeywolf (T)

He could keep a diary, of course, but the chance of Sherlock finding it some day, and reading it, would be even higher than this way. He even created a new e-mail address for this blog and uses a password which consists of upper and lower case letters, numbers and special characters. And he refrained from using his birthday or something relatable to him. So how on earth could Sherlock find this blog?

The Poster Girl by stardust_made (M): 

A seemingly straightforward case has Lestrade calling for Sherlock's help. Written from John's POV, this story takes place two months after the events in "The Great Game" and follows the investigation of the murder of Veronica Havisham: seventeen, popular—and murdered in Hainault Forrest on a Friday night in June.

(Note: this fanfic isn’t explicitly johnlock, but there are some moments that hint to it being a thing in the future. The case itself is so very well-written that I had to include it on this list!)

Folder Name: John H. Watson by watsonholmes (T)

Create New Folder Folder Name: John H. Watson Filed under: Flatmate …loading… Entry: >Ex- RAMC >Shot: Left Shoulder; invalided home >PTSD; psychosomatic limp-fixed >Crack-shot >Drink: Tea; Milk, no sugar >JUMPERS

Notes by Kryptaria (G)

It had begun innocuously enough, when Sherlock had found a scrap of paper under the armchair that had become reserved solely for John’s use. Sherlock Holmes, it read, with 221B Baker Street underneath.

A Winter Walk by cathedral_carver (T)

Time is the longest distance between two places.

Just a Kiss by emmagrant01 (M)

Five times John and Sherlock kissed because of a case and one time they kissed for real.

Points by lifeonmars (WIP) (M)

What if His Last Vow never happened?

This fic picks up a few months after John and Mary's wedding, in an alternate universe where Magnussen doesn't exist, but Mary is still pregnant. Life continues -- just in a different direction.

Scrutiny by lifeonmars (presumably T)

What is it like to live with someone who can nearly read your mind? John's life comes into focus under the magnifying glass of Sherlock Holmes.

Bent by lifeonmars (M)

Sherlock straightens a poker. Something in John's mind snaps.

For all fans of The Speckled Band.

Senza Catene by MadLori (G)

Sherlock has a secret hobby. One night John follows him to find out what his flat mate is up to and gets the surprise of his life.

Suite for Violin and Clarinet by AwkwardAnnie (G)

John finds a clarinet in a charity shop and discovers that some things are better said with music. Eventual Sherlock/John.

Dear John by WendyMarlowe (M)

With Sherlock dead, John eventually (under duress) makes a profile on an online dating site. And falls into a long-distance relationship with an enigmatic partner who reminds him of Sherlock in all the right ways. (Hint: it turns out to be Sherlock.)

and stand there at the edge of my affection by coloredink (T)

"You've written love letters," Sherlock asserted.

Speaker for the Bees by antietamfalls (M)

It isn't always easy assisting a deaf detective. Luckily for John, they make a pretty good team.

Unconventional Decor by coloredink (T)

Sherlock makes a list of all the things in his room that might be causing John to not want to sleep there. It is very long.

Five Times John Talked to Mummy (and one time he didn't) by coloredink (T)

Sherlock thrust his phone into John's jaw and growled, "You talk to her."

Seventeen Letters by out_there (G)

"I love Sherlock," John says out loud, testing how the words feel in his mouth. It doesn't change anything. Sherlock's still the pillock who fiddled with his computer password.

Heart on a String by AngelSpirit (M)

John and Sherlock got married with Cracker Jack rings when they were 7 yrs old. It wasn’t official, but for their whole lives they took it very seriously.

Lines Written In Kensington Gardens by CaitlinFairchild (M)

Thirty-five was the established boundary, Sherlock decided after extensive calculations. He would be dead by thirty-five. That was the kind of man he was. That was the kind of life he lived.

At thirty-four, a year before his appointed rendezvous with oblivion, Sherlock met a man. Nobody special, or so he thought, an ordinary man--who soon proved extraordinary, a man who killed without hesitation to protect a life Sherlock cared nothing about.

This is the story of how Sherlock Holmes lived long enough to grow old.

A Beginner’s Guide to Apiology by VictoryCandescence (M)

John and Sherlock meet for the first time as old men in Sussex.

The Love Song of Two Idiots by SkipandDi (T)

The eighth time Sherlock proposed to John, it was on a Thursday afternoon in the middle of a Tesco. And like the seven times before, he got rejected.

walk through ghosts by augustbird (M) (ambiguous ending)

The thing is: Sherlock thought that the two of them would have forever to figure it out.

What Are You Going To Do About It? by brbsoulnomming (M)

So, for whatever reason Sherlock steals John's clothes.

John, BAMF that he is, decides he's not going to take this lying down and wanders around the flat completely naked because he doesn't want to play Sherlock's game.

I want John making tea, cooking, reading a book (legs uncrossed, of course), watching telly, randomly bending over to pick things up, etcetera. JUST GOING ABOUT HIS DAY, BUT IN THE NUDE.

Sherlock now has a major problem: John's nudity is DISTRACTING.

He expected John would be all modest, or at least wear a towel or something, but things aren't going as planned.

Bonus points if there's a drug bust.

Renegades by augustbird (M)

Sherlock Holmes takes down Moriarty’s syndicate. He also takes John Watson with him. AU of The Reichenbach Fall.

A Very Sherlock Musical by flawedamythyst (T)

So, you know how musicals are set in a world where people just burst into song every five minutes, and everyone around them automatically knows to join in with the tune and choreography? This fic is set in that world.

John finds it extremely frustrating that Sherlock won't sing their theme song with him.

Untitled by shadowpenguins (Gen) [Tumblr ficlet]

Sherlock Holmes graced the quiet room with a ballet.

Where I Cannot Find You by withoutawish (M) (ANGST!)

When Hamish is diagnosed with cancer, his parents have two entirely separate ways of coping.

Sink Like a Stone by pennydreadful (T) (ANGST!)

After defeating Moriarty at the pool, life isn't quite the same around 221B Baker Street...it's more peaceful. And stranger.

BONUS: Johnlock Fan Songs

Pressure Point by Justine Benoit (leiaorganax)

it’s the start of a story the first written words you and I against the world our hearts racing in our veins the two of us, the thrill of the chase

I Believe in Sherlock Holmes by Vatican Cameos

In those eighteen months, you changed my life and my perception Of this world I live in now without you Baker Street won’t be the same Without your goddamn deductions Can I ever move on, Find someone new?

Morning Light by Justine Benoit (leiaorganax)

running through city lights you took my hand gave me someone who understands what it’s like to be empty what it’s like to be me

Ex-Girlfriends’ Lament by Vatican Cameos 

You were nice, you were charming, You were handsome and sweet, But you cared more about, your flatmate than me, I wish you, the best, With Sherlock Holmes.

(Likely) more fan fictions to come! Enjoy!

Tagging those who may be interested: @alexxphoenix42 @sherlockgayaturgy @sherlcckholmes :)

[haleyfury]

As I was preparing my traditional What I Read post for February, I realized that I did a few more bookish, fandom, and bloggish things that I want to talk about! Because I don’t just want to discuss books today, I’m going to be guiding you through what I wrote and watched this month, as well as some fun, in-real-life happenings.

February was a weird reading month because I feel like I didn’t read a lot, between school life and being busy on the weekends, but I managed to read X books! I tend to read less during the school year because I like not having to concentrate too much when I get to relax (hence a lot of Youtube and TV watching). I spent a lot of time reading for my English classes this month (2 books from my contemporary American lit class are included down below), and while I’m not including them on my list, I read Logicomix and Berlin: City of Stones Vol.1 for my graphic novels course.

If I don’t talk about the books below right now, it’s because you’ll find reviews for them in the next section.

The Bear and the Nightingale by Katherine Arden | 4.5/5 Stars

This Is What Happy Looks Like by Jennifer E. Smith | 4/5 Stars

The Cruel Prince by Holly Black | 4/5 Stars

Her Body and Other Parties by Carmen Maria Machado | 4/5 Stars

Her Body and Other Parties is the second book I’ve read for my contemporary American lit class, and it was a book that was on my TBR radar before I found out it was on the syllabus!?! I’m still slightly in shock that I’m reading books published within the past year in SCHOOL (not-so-patiently waiting for my school to add a YA lit class). Anyways, I really enjoyed Her Body and Other Parties for its genre-bending short stories and focus on women. My favorites include “Inventory”, “Eight Bites”, and “The Resident” (all of which you can find online!).

Thunderhead by Neal Shusterman | 5/5 Stars

After the Quake by Haruki Murakami | 4/5 Stars

My contemporary American literature class is focused on the short story cycle, and it’s been really interesting to read so many short stories. I’ve heard good things about Haruki Murakami’s 1Q84, so I was excited to pick up this short story collection centering around the Kobe earthquake. When I’m reading for school, I often take the time to take notes as  I read, but I was so immersed in Murakami’s writing that I forgot to until I finished! My favorite stories were “ufo in kushiro” and “thailand”.

Heir of Fire by Sarah J. Maas | 5/5 Stars

My reread review of HoF will be coming next week, just know for now that I was very happy to be reunited with Manon & Abraxos.

Like my reading, I feel like I didn’t post as much as I have in the past six months, but I only had two weeks where I went back to my original schedule of only 3 posts a week. I’m really happy with February’s content.

Reviews

The HYPE IS REAL: Scythe by Neal Shusterman

The Review That Time Forgot… Okay, It Was Me: I Am Not Your Perfect Mexican Daughter by Erika L. Sánchez

Before the Fae: Throne of Glass and Crown of Midnight Reread Discussion

The Upside of Unrequited by Becky Albertalli

Keeping Up With Fantasy: The Bear and the Nightingale & The Cruel Prince

I READ A SUMMER CONTEMPORARY IN FEBRUARY??? | This Is What Happy Looks Like by Jennifer E. Smith

CAN THE THUNDERHEAD GIVE ME THE 3RD BOOK? | Thunderhead by Neal Shusterman

Book-Related

I’M CRAVING FANTASY & 100 BOOKS: What I Read in January 2018

Top Five Wednesday: Favorite YA Romance Novels

Fandom

My Experience Seeing Dear Evan Hansen ft. the Amazon Bookstore

TBB Asks: All About Love & Fangirl Things Q&A

My Funko Pop Collection-February 2018

Tags

Reputation Book Tag

I LIKE BOOK TAGS THAT AREN’T BOOK TAGS | Book Blogger Test

  The Greatest Showman– I’m about two months late to the party, but during the first weekend in February, my sister and I finally saw The Greatest Showman. In January, I saw so many people online completely raving about this musical-film inspired by P.T. Barnum (a sentence I thought I’d never write), and it was Zoë Sugg of Zoella and her vlogs that made me want to see the film. It’s safe to say that I absolutely loved The Greatest Showman, and I have been completely obsessed with the soundtrack. I run to “A Million Dreams” and “The Other Side” , guys. Besides the two songs that I just mentioned, I love “Never Enough”, “Rewrite the Stars”, “From Now On”, and “Tightrope”.

The Good Place – Almost every book blogger I follow on Twitter have raved about The Good Place. What really sold was me were all the mentions of PARKS & REC EASTER EGGS!

It was so much fun to be back in a Michael Schur show— HE CREATED Parks & Rec- and I just love how complex the storyline has become, not to mention the hilarious characters. As I’m writing this post, I’ve just started watching Ghosted again because you know, Adam Scott (Ben Wyatt is forever my fictional bf), WHO IS ACTUALLY IN SEASON ONE OF THE GOOD PLACE. I cannot wait for the third season to come out, and until then, I might need to watch another Michael Schur show (I’m thinking Brooklyn-Nine-Nine) or it’” be time for another Parks and Rec rewatch.

  The Belles Book Signing- During the second weekend in February, I went into New York City to spend the day with one of my best friends. We spent most of the day catching up and working on a film project of his-while writing will always be #1, my love for video has expanded this year with my film classes—and around 3:30, we decided to do something bookish and head to Books of Wonder for Dhonielle Clayton and Adam Silvera’s event for The Belles. Our first mistake was leaving about twenty minutes before the event, as the signing turned out to be the most crowded event I’ve been to. Our second “mistake” was continuing to take our time and then end up at the downtown Books of Wonder.The event was of course held at the uptown Books of Wonder location, so a few subway stops later we made it there. Luckily, we made it in time to hear Dhonielle and Adam answer questions from the audience and treat ourselves to some macaroons. I also convinced my friend to buy History Is All You Left Me, which is my favorite book of Adam’s, but unfortunately we didn’t say for the signing because there were about 70 people in front of us and I had a train to catch. However, I still had a great day in the city with my best friend and those macaroons were the perfect snack for the train ride home.

Being featured on Jacquelyn Middleton’s blog

Jacquelyn Middleton is the author of London Belongs to Me, one of my favorite NA reads, and London, Can You Meet. On her blog, Jacquelyn has been sharing so many bookstagram photos of her books and mine was featured in her post, “London Belongs… To You: Part Twelve“! I consider myself to be a VERY amateur bookstagrammer, so it was amazing to be featured along such amazing bookstagram accounts– I think one of my summer projects is going to be upping my Instagram game.

fangirlfury.com

I mentioned this in my Funko Pop Collection post, but on Valentine’s Day, I bought my blog domain! While I didn’t post until March, I created Fangirl Fury in February of 2017, and I feel so excited to own my domain a year later. You can now officially find me at fangirlfury.com. Whether this is your 1st or 150th time reading a Fangirl Fury post, I want to thank you for supporting my spot on the Internet. Here’s to another exciting year of blogging, reading, and fangirling!

I really liked writing a true monthly wrap-up, and I can see myself expanding my “What I Read” posts to this format. Do you like monthly wrap-ups? What did you read or watch in February? Share in the comments!

BOOKS, WRITING, AND LIFE HAPPENINGS: February Wrap-Up As I was preparing my traditional What I Read post for February, I realized that I did a few more bookish, fandom, and bloggish things that I want to talk about!

[shewpthewewp]

State of the Shewp

Haven’t done one of these for a while.  But I’m up late and feeling ramble-y, so here we go!  We’re gonna get weird. Maybe.  Depending on what you consider weird.

Starting off easy with some reading recs.

Oathbringer, the third book in Brandon Sanderson’s Stormlight Archive dropped earlier this month.  It’s the usual Sanderson experience, which means I loved every word of it.  I won’t talk too much about it because we’re already nearly 3,000 pages into the series BEFORE this book and it adds another ~1400, so I can’t really do it justice in a few paragraphs.  If you want to get into Brandon’s works (specifically, the books in the Cosmere setting) I would start with Warbreaker.  

The other thing I wanted to mention regarding Cosmere stuff is that reading this  has left me very hungry for a Cosmere-setting tabletop game.  I played in a Mistborn game in college and I’d be all over something set on Roshar (or Scadrial, or Sel, or... anywhere really).  Also really wanting to cosplay something Cosmere-related.  Anastasia suggested Vin & Elend, which I think we could pull off.  I’ll toss it into the ‘I will probably never do this because it would take effort’ pile, but you never know!

The sequel to WORM is out!  It’s titled WARD.  I haven’t started it yet because I am waiting for a larger backlog to be written (also Oathbringer devoured my reading time.  As a friend told me, she THICC).  I talked a bit about WORM in a previous post, so check that out if you want to know more.

I also discovered the genre of LitRPG recently.  It’s an umbrella term for any fiction that features RPG-like elements - i.e. classes, levels, etc.  It also frequently features isekai-like themes, like modern-world protagonists dropped into a fantasy setting.  Unfortunately, these things also mean that it has an overly-large share of garbage tropes like stupidly overpowered protagonists and blatant wish-fulfillment, but not to a significant degree more than most other types of fiction or fanfiction.  Three pieces of fiction in this genre that I enjoyed the most:

The Wandering Inn (summary from the website) -  An inn is a place to rest, a place to talk and share stories, or a place to find adventures, a starting ground for quests and legends.  In this world, at least. To Erin Solstice, an inn seems like a medieval relic from the past. But here she is, running from Goblins and trying to survive in a world full of monsters and magic. She’d be more excited about all of this if everything wasn’t trying to kill her.  But an inn is what she found, and so that’s what she becomes. An innkeeper who serves drinks to heroes and monsters – Actually, mostly monsters. But it’s a living, right?  This is the story of the Wandering Inn.

This story seems to have been written specifically to go against the grain of some of the negative tropes I mentioned before.  A world full of classes and levels, and our protagonist ends up as an Innkeeper. The first couple chapters are a bit rough, but I think the author finds their stride pretty quickly after that and things pick up across book 1.  Yes, book ONE.  There are two full-length, complete books in this series and a third is well underway.  Check it out!

Worth the Candle (summary from the website) -  From the age of nine, Juniper Smith began filling notebooks with his worlds, at first places of fantastical imagination, but later with each as an expression of some theme or idea that momentarily grabbed his interest. Over the course of eight years, he shared these worlds with his friends through twice-weekly sessions of tabletop gaming. Now at the age of seventeen, he finds himself in Aerb, a world that appears to be an amalgam of those many notebooks, stuck trying to find the answers to why he's there and what this world is trying to say. The most terrifying answer might be that this world is an expression of the person he was back on Earth.

I have absolutely loved this so far.  The story is frequently intermixed with flashbacks to the protagonists tabletop sessions (where he GM’d) and it talks a lot about what makes a good character and how to run a game.  The only negative for me is that it’s incomplete and the author updates sporadically (but when they do update, they tend to post quite a bit).  It is broken up into several ‘books’ that are mostly completed plot arcs, but unlike the Wandering Inn I think this is still very, VERY early on in its overall length (if I had to guess).

Finally, I’m a Spider, So What? is a translated web serial or light novel (I’m honestly not 100% sure which).  It’s also slowly being converted into a manga, I think?  Either way, the premise is that a class of students gets murder-blasted into another dimension by an evil demon lord.  Most of the class ends up as humans with bright futures and mysterious powers, but one ends up as a spider in the depths of one of the most dangerous dungeons on the planet.  Funny and very engaging, though the translation threw me for a loop sometimes.  It’s also not fully translated and it seems like a bunch of different people are all translating it and are are different parts.  A less serious suggestion than my previous two, but enjoyable nonetheless.  

Moving on to slightly more personal stuff!  Ooooooo weird ooooooo!

Still engaged to Anastasia!  Current plan is to get married in Hell, Michigan in late 2018.  They have cute little invitations that say “A marriage that starts in Hell can only go up!” (or something like that).  It will be a very small event, I think - the ‘chapel’ there can hold maybe 15 people, counting us and the officiant, so that’s pretty much going to be only family.  We’re planning to have a larger reception/party afterwards instead.

Getting close to finishing the second RPG I am GM’ing.  It’s an original superhero setting run in the FATE system.  I lost steam for a while pretty close to the end and started it back up recently, and it’s a relief to do honestly. I missed the characters, the story, the players.  Overall I have really enjoyed my time GMing but I do find it much more stressful than playing.  I think part of the reason I got a bit burnt out at first was because I was trying to run two games and play in at least two others.  I think a good rule of thumb (for me at least) is that running one game takes about the same mental effort/time/etc. as playing in 2-3 others, but maybe it’s just because I’m still (relatively) inexperienced at it.

Still working at the same place (the lava factory).  I asked for a raise recently and was very embarrassed to find out that I had actually gotten a pretty good one a few months ago and never noticed.  In my defense, HR never told me either, but I still should have seen it on my bank statements... Also, starting in January I’ll get THREE WHOLE WEEKS of vacation.  Not sure what to do with that much!

Still seeing a therapist.  Not entirely sure it’s helping me, but I think being open about that is helpful not only to me personally but also just in general to help de-stigmatize therapy and mental health in general (something I’ve always kind of struggled with).

Got a vasectomy.  I kind of want to be a bit more open about it - it would be a big deal if Anastasia and I were going to have a kid and we’d be totally ok with sharing that, so making a permanent decision to NOT have kids should be just as important, right? - but on the other hand it feels like it’s not their business and I feel like most people probably don’t want to hear about my balls.  Not that I’m keeping it a secret or anything either.  Also, after being told many, MANY times that “I’ll change my mind and want kids some day” I kind of want to be able to shoot them down.  Fortunately that didn’t come up at all during Thanksgiving and I wouldn’t have actually been rude like that anyway, but the temptation is there...

Actually taking some decently strong painkillers right now (sorry if I’m  a bit incoherent), since I started getting super sore this evening (and it’s only kind of Anastasia’s fault ( ͡° ͜ʖ ͡°)) .  All the external sutures have healed, but the internal stuff still has a way to go.  They cut, cauterize, tie-off and then stitch together the internal bits, so those will take longer to heal.  

If you’re a guy interested in permanent birth control or a lady who’s just plain curious, I’d be more than happy to answer any questions you have!

Not much else going on.  I move from thing to thing and binge - FFXIV for a while, then DOOM, then Overwatch, currently WoW, maybe XCOM next, with books and writing and tabletop gaming sprinkled in between.

That’s all the important stuff for now, I think.  I’m honestly kind of boring.

[froggybangbang]

@ashes-and-dust​ tagged me (eons ago) in a thing that starts personal and then degenerates into tv show stuff?? and... well here it is

1.) Why did you choose your URL?

You must all know this by now, lol. Okay so 1-I’m French Canadian, a popular insult for us by the English is “Frog” and I highly believe in claiming back insults.2-The first online url I had (well second. I had wolves has my special interest back when I was 12 so ‘wolfy136′ was the first, fleeting url I got) was after I joinned the HP fandom, with my favourite character, thus Lunard136/Lunard1 was born (that’s moony. my wolf special interest faded in the background but it’s still there to show lol). I started going to other websites than HP ones and I was starting to feel like that url wasn’t good for those so I thought long and hard about something I could be me and not fandom related so I wouldn’t have to change it again (because change is good but I hate it) and I came up with “Froggy”. Only to find it was used already. I was tired of the old 136 so I decided to had something about me in the url, something about my temper (I’m definitely a fire sign) and added the “bangbang” because I catch like a barrel of powder. (you dirty mind you if you thought I’d use it as a sex reference! Shame on you! except lol yeah I knew how it sounded and I was fine with letting people who don’t know me think I’m a nympho. what better way to hide I’m not really all that interested in sex, which is weird and not normal, right? right.)

2.) What’s your middle name?

Very few Quebecois have one, those who are afflicted by the old tradition, weather because their parents are religious or because it’s a tradition and nobody questions it have (for girls) Mary Godmother’sName FirstName LastName (for boys) Joseph Godfather’sName FirstName LastName. That’s the format and absolutely nobody goes by the first two to the point that my passport doesn’t even show them because I was told not to put them in if I’m not using them (???!!!? but okay!) anyway my are Mary Diane Kristine LastName

3.) If you could own a fairytale/fictional pet, what would it be?

I’d love a tiny dragon? I’m pretty sure I said “I want a X now!” a few onth ago but I can’t remember what it was... But honestly if I can, in my life, befriend a corvid that’s like. the dream goal. It has been for ever.

4.) Favourite colour?

hmmm I really love orange. every shade but especially the dark burnt one. I also like dark green, dark blue, dark teal and dark purple a lot? I’ll go with orange

5.) Favourite song?

That’s.... not something I can answer. Honestly how can you pick one? IDK I really love In Hell I’ll be in Good Company these days? I really love Phillip Glass’ Violin Concerto No.1 2nd Movement if you prefer no voice. Also Dream Fragment from the Chrono Cross OST because I’m a sucker for music box.

Here are a few of my Spotify playlist, for those interested.

A Little Bit of Everything is pretty much all the songs I like and remember to put on spotify (if spotify has them. They lack in Quebecois music)

Music Rec is songs that you might not know about that exist and you should listen to them, but this doesn’t get updated very often

RN is the playlist that keeps changing. My current obsessions are on that one

In the Summertime are songs for a nice warm summer day with a light breeze and a hammock (or something. maybe a few friend in the backyard and a beer.)

And Sunday Mornings is the playlist I’m listening to mainly on sunday mornings (It’s playing right now) because it fits the vibe of a sunday morning when you start your coffee and still might have an eye glued down

6.) What are your top three fandoms?

errr I’ll go with HP, 1D (*glares at @ashes-and-dust​*) and....hmm. I’m not really active in any of the others anymore. but I guess Sherlock?(though Pacific Rim or Cabin Pressure also fit third place but I think I still read more sherlock fic than I do PR or CP)

7.) Why do you enjoy Tumblr?

This hellsite is my main place for interacting with sensible human beings. I also LOVE *those* posts. you the ones where one person asks a questions/ places a random thought and then.... it just. takes a life of its own? and everyone knows them? The Guam Cookie post is one. The many Aliens finds Humans Weird also. but then there’s the smaller ones like just. They are exactly the kind of stuff I’d be saying with my (ex? maybe?)friend in Rimousky like you say something, and they add something in a deadpanned way that is bviously exagerated/insane and then you add on it and they add on it until you are at the stage that you won’t be buy mayo because, really, having to marry someone from an island so you could get away with murder is much too much effort. That’s why I love tumblr.

PICK YOUR 5 FAVORITE TV SHOWS AND ANSWER THE QUESTIONS:

ugh I very rarely watch tv anymore these are hard.

1. Merlin

2. Doctor Who (until season 5/6 anyway. Moffat killed it)

3. Torchwood

4. The X-Files (haven’t seen the reboot but I’d love to!)

5. ...... Sherlock (I guess? But I still haven’t watch the last xmas special nor the last season? Moffat killed it?)

1. WHO IS YOUR FAVOURITE CHARACTER IN 2?

hmmmmm..... *shakes the Ponds, Martha Jones and Dona Noble in her hand to see which will get out* I’m going to go with Dona. I’m not so in your face, but I really relate with her and she had an awesome friendship with 10, not afraid to give him a good earful if he went overboard.

2. WHO IS YOUR LEAST FAVOURITE CHARACTER IN 1?

Shit idk. I mean Uther and Morgana where mean shit but I loved their characters for what they were..... I’d say between Uther and Mordred? idk. 

3. WHAT’S YOUR FAVOURITE EPISODE OF 4?

Oh shit. Dude do you have any idea how many episode there is of the xfiles?? I’m going to go with the one on the boat, because that’s the one that popped into my head right now (immediately followed by that black and white one when Mulder meets the Gunmen for the first time... that CELL PHONE OMG) and any moment when Scully and Mulder have SASS going on.

4. WHAT’S YOUR FAVOURITE SEASON OF 5?

The first season is the best without a doubt. I’ve loved the second season but in the first one the story were even more concentrated on one story per episode and it was very well thought off and they didn’t overdo it yet, which they tented to do afterwards, as well as letting more episode be one story and not following canon anymore. I’m actually sadden at my lack of consistency at following Elementary.

5. WHAT’S YOUR FAVOURITE RELATIONSHIP IN 3?

Oh. er... Ianto/Jack. but. like. I don’t like to think about that because of children of the earth.

6. WHO IS YOUR ANTI-RELATIONSHIP IN 1?

I know it sounds weird but I really see Arthur and Gwen as bromance who agreed to marry because throne? They have a great chemistry but I just don’t buy it.

7. HOW LONG HAVE YOU WATCHED 4?

The first episode I’ve seen was on TQS with the french dubbed version of the first episode we see the guy that can dislocate every bones in his body to crawl in small places. then I got hooked and rented the VHS of the series, bought books of the series, the official magazines, unofficial biographies (my gosh is the internet cheaper) and watched every episode (at some point switching in the English version on Fridays) until Mulder got abducted. Tried to watch that season but didn’t care to not miss an episode... then I just... forgot to tune in. so that’d be since.... according to WIKI the first episodes in French were in 1994 and “squeeze” is the third one.

8. HOW DID YOU BECOME INTERESTED IN 3?

Because of Doctor Who.

9. WHO IS YOUR FAVOURITE ACTOR IN 2?

Grahhhhh okay I’m going to go renewed series because fhjdsahlsb and it’s still hard but I think I’ll go with David Tenant. Tough Karen Gillan is good too. Oh! fuck and John Simm fuck I forgot John Simm and Life on Mars! damn. Okay John Simm

10. WHICH SHOW DO YOU PREFER: 1, 4 OR 5?

You drive a hard bargain. I’ll go with the X-Files; 4

11. WHICH SHOW HAVE YOU SEEN MORE EPISODES OF? 1 OR 3?

as in proportionally? because I’ve see all of them, but I *think* merlin has more episodes? Though I’ve watch Torchwood more often I think?

12. IF YOU COULD BE ANYONE FROM 4, WHO WOULD YOU BE?

I’m not sure I’d like to be anyone on the x-files that sounds like a very dangerous life. although wait no not true! one of the gunmen! They have the coolest job in the series.

13. HOW WOULD YOU KILL OFF YOUR FAVOURITE CHARACTER IN 3?

*stares* Not like that. 

14. WOULD A 2/3 CROSSOVER WORK?

HAHAHA well. YES, mainly because IT IS a thing between DW and Torchwood.

15. PAIR TWO CHARACTERS IN 2 THAT WOULD MAKE AN UNLIKELY BUT STRANGELY OKAY COUPLE.

The Master and Donna? If, you know, the Master got his murdering tendencies in check. idk I’m not good at pairing people. I pick and chose those who exist in the fandom.

16. OVERALL, WHICH SHOW HAD A BETTER CAST: 3 OR 5?

Damn.... I mean Andrew Scott alone.... but then it got cringey... but I don’t particularly like Gwen but I’m pretty sure it’s not the casting..... I’ll go with Torchwood.

17. WHICH SHOW HAS A BETTER SOUNDTRACK: 1, 4 OR 5?

I do not know Merlin’s Soundtrack well enough to comment on it and I think the X-files’ is pretty lacking, but Sherlock has some very good music, the Irene piece is on of my favourite.

Blergh. I don’t want to tag because lazy. go ahead and give me the answers, though. Especially the music ones I’m always interested in finding new music!