#i’ve always loved companion art books

[euphorial-docx]

i’m thinking about turning my opev art ao3 post into a general opev art book companion thing with more than just one piece of art (which is lovely, btw. the one already there is beautiful.)

so if you have opev art, old or new, and you want me to add them/give me permission to add them to the art book, let me know! <333

[amandacanwrite]

I would like to share a few head canons for Gale Dekarios being in love with tav/you. If you liked this one and have a request for another character let me know. These ones have just been percolating for a bit.

In Battle

He tries very hard to stay near you. He doesn’t like it when you go off on your own. He knows he doesn’t quite have the strength of Karlach or the sure footedness of Astarion, but he’s not just going to let you fight everyone on your own.

Sometimes he gets a little hurt that you always put yourself in harms way/take so much of the damage on the battlefield. Don’t you know that losing you would destroy him?

You have never witnessed it, but according to the other party members he goes feral if you’re knocked unconscious.

When you wake up it’s always with your head cradled in his lap as shadowheart works on the worst of the wounds.

He does this thing with his magic where he makes his hands really cold. It feels nice on your feverish skin as he gently smooths your hair away from your face, you don’t know why you feel so nauseous and sweaty after you black out but this little gesture helps you come back smoothly.

He has a hard time sleeping after a rough encounter. He keeps waking up and making sure you’re still breathing. In the end he gives up on sleeping and just reads by the fire, calming his nerves to the sound of your steady, stable breathing.

In Camp

He is hilariously fussy about what you eat.

“No, you ABSOLUTELY CANNOT subsist off of a loaf of bread, three olives and a bottle of wine. We are no longer young scholars barely SCRAPING by—“

Very resourceful when it comes to what you can scrape together out of barrels around camp. You were very skeptical when you watched him putting a variety of different bones into a cauldron as you left him back in camp one day. But you came back to a rich stew full of potatoes, some wild rice and even some cut up apple in the mix.

He likes it when you play with his hair. But he has to very pointedly avoid it if he’s in the middle of reading up on something.

“Darling, are you certain you’re not practiced in the arcane arts? I do think you’ve got some magic in those fingertips of yours, at the very least, with how quickly they can put me to sleep.”

When You’re Alone

It’s simple. He worships you. Perhaps it’s because his last lover was a goddess but it seems to come easy for him; the reverent words, the gentle touches, the utter devotion. Sometimes you catch him just… looking at you. His eyes softly hooded, a relaxed curve to his lips. It’s your favorite to ask what’s on his mind when he looks at you like that.

“Hm? Oh, nothing much. I’ve just been observing. Did you know you purse your lips when you’re reading something that you disagree with? Yes—hah—just like that.”

He loves to read WITH you. Especially loves to show you some of his favorite tomes. He’ll get you all nestled up against him and hold the book down in front of you. He reads much faster than you, so he busies himself kissing behind your ear or playing with your hair until you turn the page.

Gods does he love it when you ask him questions about something to do with magic. He loves watching the glint in your eye when he’s helped you understand something.

You love it when you get him rolling on a topic of theory that you know he doesn’t get to talk about much. Sometimes he loses you when he gets into the minutiae, but he’s so damn cute when he’s ranting about the wonder in the world.

In Intimate Moments

(Potential NSFW below.)

Of course it is not a surprise that he’s a generous lover. What is a surprise is how demanding he can be when he feels like it. He knows you are no stranger to a challenge and he loves to make things more exciting by presenting you with one.

“Of course I’m aware of our companions in camp. But it’s not as if we can afford ourselves more privacy. You’re just going to have to quiet those lovely little sounds you make while I touch you… let’s see… it was here wasn’t it? Ah, ah… shhhh, my love. Those pointy ears of Astarion’s might pick even that tiny sound.”

Gods does he know how to string words together to leave you completely undone.

Sometimes foreplay is mostly talk. He can get you going without even touching you.

“My love, I’ve not been able to stop thinking of the ways I want to touch you all day. Shall I tell you what’s been on my mind?”

His breath tickles against your ear as his hands smooth over your clothed body, telling you how he wants to take you. It’s all the more flustering when you know he always keeps his word.

Love making always starts with a kiss, deep and slow.

You feel him smile into the kiss when he slips his fingers into the front of your trousers and he feels just how aroused he’s made you.

“You are exquisite. A delicacy of the highest quality. Do you know that?”

He’s not one to bang it out for a quickie. He doesn’t like to feel like he’s stealing his time with you, or like he’s a young man again and hastily getting whatever he can before heading back to the dormitories. Every touch, every word, every thrust is slow and deliberate. He wants to relish the feeling of it all. He wants to soak you in.

Somehow, he always smells good. Like cinnamon and tea and… some earthen, herbaceous scent you cant place.

So many cuddles after you’re done.

[wonlvures]

˚୨୧⋆. A QUIET CONNECTION — YOO JIMIN (PT.2)

PAIRING: Girlfriend!Karina x Girlfriend!reader

GENRE: fluff, romance

SYNOPSIS: Y/N, lost in a book, unexpectedly meets Karina, and through a shared conversation about the escape found in art—whether through stories or music—a gentle connection forms between them, leading to the promise of more moments together, as both women realize this fleeting encounter could be the start of something meaningful.

After that fateful meeting, Y/N couldn't stop thinking about Karina. Their spontaneous conversation at the café had left a mark on her—a quiet but undeniable shift in the way she saw the world. It was like meeting Karina had peeled away a layer she didn’t even realize she had, revealing a new sense of possibility.

For the next week, Y/N found herself looking forward to their texts more than anything else. It started with casual check-ins—Karina sharing an interesting article, Y/N sending over a funny meme—but it quickly deepened. Soon, they were exchanging thoughts about books they loved, sharing random anecdotes from their day, and discussing their dreams for the future.

Y/N realized that Karina wasn’t just easy to talk to; she was also someone who seemed to understand the things Y/N had never fully articulated to anyone else. Karina had a way of seeing the world, of seeing her, that felt both rare and precious.

It was Friday again when they met at the café. The rain had returned, but it felt different this time. Instead of serving as a backdrop to their conversation, it had become a companion to their growing connection. Y/N arrived early, finding their usual corner booth already taken. But when she saw Karina walk in, her heart did a little skip.

Karina's face lit up when she saw Y/N, her smile warm and genuine. She waved, her umbrella still dripping, before coming to sit across from Y/N.

“You’re early today,” Karina remarked, sliding into the booth and setting her coffee down. “I was half-expecting you to be fashionably late like usual.”

Y/N laughed, a little embarrassed. “I think the rain made me want to get here early. It just feels... right, you know?”

“I know exactly what you mean,” Karina replied, her eyes sparkling. “The rain has this calming effect. It’s like everything slows down for a while.

They smiled at each other, and for a moment, Y/N felt an undeniable pull—a connection that went beyond the surface. She hadn’t expected to feel so comfortable with someone so quickly.

As they chatted, time seemed to blur. The conversation was effortless, like a dance they had unknowingly learned together. They shared more about their lives, the things that made them laugh, the things that scared them. Y/N learned that Karina was an artist, someone who saw the world through a lens of color and shape. She painted and sketched whenever she could, finding beauty in the smallest details that most people would miss.

“I think art is about seeing the world the way it’s meant to be seen,” Karina said thoughtfully, her fingers tracing the rim of her coffee cup. “It’s not just about what’s in front of you—it’s about capturing the feeling, the energy.”

Y/N nodded, her heart swelling a little. She understood that. She had always felt the same way about writing, how every story wasn’t just a string of words—it was about the emotions that came with it, the undercurrent of meaning beneath each sentence.

“You’re a writer, right?” Karina asked, her voice soft but curious.

Y/N smiled, a little sheepish. “I try to be. Mostly, I write for myself. But I’ve always felt like I’m writing letters that I never send. Unwritten things that I can never quite say out loud.”

Karina’s eyes softened, like she understood the weight of Y/N’s words. “Maybe you’ll write one to someone who understands you one day,” she said, her voice barely above a whisper.

Y/N’s heart skipped. She wasn’t sure if it was the depth of the conversation or the way Karina’s gaze held hers, but something in her chest fluttered.

Before she could respond, Karina shifted in her seat and reached into her bag, pulling out a small sketchbook. “I know it’s not much,” she said, her cheeks tinged with pink, “but I thought you might like to see something I’ve been working on.”

Y/N’s breath caught in her throat. She didn’t know why, but the idea of Karina sharing her art felt intimate—more intimate than anything they had shared so far. Karina flipped open the sketchbook to reveal a series of detailed sketches of cityscapes, of people lost in their own thoughts, and of small moments that seemed insignificant but were full of life. Each drawing felt like a window into Karina’s soul, like she had captured pieces of the world in the most delicate way.

“This is beautiful,” Y/N said, her voice filled with awe. “You... you really have a way of seeing things, Karina. I didn’t expect something like this.”

Karina looked down, a soft smile tugging at her lips. “I don’t really show it to anyone. I guess I’m just... not ready to share that part of me yet.”

Y/N's heart ached, but in a good way. Karina had shared something so personal, so vulnerable, without hesitation. The weight of the moment settled between them like a secret they now held together.

“I think you should share it more,” Y/N said, her voice soft but certain. “You have something special. People would be lucky to see it.”

Karina looked up at her, her eyes searching, as if looking for something in Y/N’s expression. After a beat, she smiled again, and this time, it felt different—like it carried with it a promise.

“Maybe one day,” Karina murmured.

The moment was interrupted by the sound of rain pattering against the windows. Both of them looked out at the world beyond, the city streets blurred by water, lights shimmering in the gray.

As the evening wore on, the conversation shifted again. But now, there was a new undercurrent, something unspoken between them. The quiet connection that had begun to blossom felt like it was no longer just a fleeting thing—it was becoming something real.

By the time the café was closing and the lights dimmed, Y/N felt a gentle sadness that the night was ending. They stood outside in the light drizzle, the air cool against their skin.

“Well,” Karina said, her voice a little hesitant, “I guess I should head home.”

Y/N nodded, her heart aching a little at the thought of parting ways. “I’ll walk you to your door.”

As they walked down the street together, the soft sound of rain on the pavement was the only noise around them. When they reached the entrance to Karina’s apartment, she paused, turning to face Y/N. There was a moment of quiet, where neither of them spoke, but the space between them was charged with an unspoken question.

Before Y/N could say anything, Karina leaned in, her lips brushing gently against Y/N’s cheek. The simple, tender gesture left Y/N breathless, her heart racing in her chest.

“I’ll see you soon, Y/N,” Karina said softly, stepping back with a smile that was full of meaning.

Y/N nodded, her heart full, but before she could respond, Karina turned and disappeared into the building, leaving Y/N standing under the streetlight, feeling a warmth in her chest that had nothing to do with the rain.

As she walked back to her apartment, Y/N couldn’t help but think that something had changed between them—something beautiful and new, like an unwritten letter finally finding its way home.

[veturiusofserra]

when you know, you know | s. r.

𑁤 synopsis: in an interview she opens up about how easy it is to be loved by Spencer, sharing the story of how they met and how his love inspired her music.

𑁤 pairing: spencer reid x singer!reader

𑁤 words: 1.090

𑁤 disclaimer: This was 100% inspired by something my bf said a while ago, and I love the song. I hope you will enjoy it too <3

“As we reach the close of our conversation, one thing’s bugging me. In your song “Margaret,” there’s this line ‘when you know, you know.’ Like, how do you just know someone’s the one? I’ve been through my share of relationships, yet I haven’t experienced that kind of thing you sing about. In your song, it’s all so clear-cut, like you can predict the future. It reminds me of a kid believing in the tooth fairy – sweet idea, maybe not quite real. But that’s probably what makes the song so good. It talks about this perfect love where everything just clicks, and all your worries disappear. Maybe that’s what I’m still looking for, or maybe it’s just for some lucky people. Either way, your song paints such a strong picture of love that it makes me wonder if I’ll ever have a ‘Margaret’ of my own.”

“It’s funny, right? The answer everyone gives is so simple: “you’ll just know.” Like love hits you like a lightning bolt, destiny calls, happily ever after guaranteed. But maybe that’s the problem. We get this picture-perfect idea of love from movies and books, and then we miss the real thing when it’s right under our noses. We set these high expectations, these checklists of what “the one” should be like. And if someone doesn’t tick every box, we write them off. It’s like searching for a flawless diamond, forgetting that even the most beautiful gems have tiny imperfections. Because guess what? We all mess up. You make mistakes, I make mistakes, everyone does. Maybe that’s what makes a real connection so special – accepting someone, flaws and all. Speaking of which, there’s this story I wanted to share with you.”

“We're all ears!”, the interviewer and the crew smile with waiting faces.  

“For the longest time, I believed I was destined to give love, but never receive it.  Maybe because... well, let’s be honest, I can be a bit self-absorbed, lost in my own head and neglecting others. But even with the no love life mantra, there was always this yearning for a family, a deep desire for children I could call my own. The ‘what ifs’ terrified me, though. Would I be a good parent? Would they be happy? Could I provide for them? Eventually, I resigned myself to a life of music, making people happy through my art, having a few friends, maybe a tragically young death – you know, the artist’s curse. 

Then, I found him. We both know Penny, but run in different circles. He’s in law, I’m an artist – about as different as you get, except for maybe a shared love of fancy vocabulary. We met at Penny’s birthday party, and while he claims it was love at first sight for him, I just thought he was the most handsome man I’d ever seen. But that was it. He was too shy to introduce himself, and I was sworn off men at the time. Funny how fate works, right?  We never crossed paths before, but after that night, it seemed like everywhere I turned, there he was. That’s when I decided to take a chance, and boy, I was so scared!

All those stories about soulmates and butterflies? They weren’t for me. Anxiety had been my constant companion for as long as I could remember. Butterflies just meant another battle brewing in my head. What I craved was peace, a steady hand to anchor me until I was ready to set sail. So, I built a friendship with him. We shared secrets, dreams, and vulnerabilities. He turned out to be a brilliant mind, a walking encyclopedia with an IQ of 187. Yet, he never made me feel inferior. He found humor in my quirks, and we seemed to complement each other perfectly. The more time we spent together, the more his words resonated: “We were designed for one another.”

And then, it hit me. Love. Deep, unexpected, and all-encompassing. It felt effortless, a perfect fit. But fear gnawed at me. It was all so new, so unfamiliar. Just as I was drowning in uncertainty, Penny, our mutual friend, reached out. She had something to show me – “Margaret.”

“She wrote it?” she asked, intrigued.

“Well, she started it,” I clarify. “Inspired by him, she penned the first lines that night after the birthday party. She couldn't shake the image of his longing gaze, a sight she’d never witnessed before. It felt sacred, a raw glimpse into his heart. The initial draft, rough around the edges, went something like this: ‘just writing for a friend. My shirt's inside out, and penmanship is messy. He met her on the rooftop, and she wore white. He said, ‘I think I’m in trouble.’ He saw flashes of the future.” A gentle smile graces your lips. 

“Seriously, that’s adorable.”

I nod, a blush creeping up my cheeks. “Right? Her words sparked inspiration within me. I wrote the rest, my mind consumed by-”

“By him.” she prompted, leaning in.

“He made love feel simple. Loving me was effortless for him, a stark contrast to the struggle I’d always imagined. It was like breathing, a natural and easy rhythm. He helped me discover the light that had been hiding within me all along.”

“There’s a saying,” the interviewer began, “to be loved is to be changed.”

I smiled. “I prefer a different one: to be loved is to be known. Because maybe, just maybe, he saw the affection within me all along, the part I couldn’t quite see myself.”

“You are indeed full of affection,” she said warmly. “Thank you for sharing this story with us.”

“Thank you for listening. I know it's a cliché, but there truly is someone out there for everyone. You never know what tomorrow holds, but deep down, a tiny spark ignites within us, guiding us towards that love. Trust it.”

“That wraps it up for our interview with the lovely Y/n! But before we say goodbye, there's one more message for her. Can we play it, Jonah?” A nod later, the studio fills with the sound of a familiar voice.

“Hey there, love. Just wanted to say congratulations on the album! You poured your heart and soul into it, and I’m incredibly proud. But hey, can you come home soon? Two days feels like an eternity without you. Miss my other half. Love you tons, sweetheart. And everyone listening, stream Ocean Boulevard! Dex says hi to mom, too.” A meow erupts in the background, eliciting a laugh from you and the studio crew.

thoughts? or prayers idk

[theheraldsrest]

Hey! I really really love your blog! If I may request, during downtime, how would the members of the inner circle react to find the Inquisitor drawing/sketching them?

“Companions react to Inquisitor drawing/sketching them”

After our *cough* little thing with Bull, let’s have some fluff, shall we? Thank you anon for the ask!

-Lord Lex

Cullen

“You did this? It’s certainly…it’s…how did you even…it’s amazing.”

-So surprised, no words. It makes him feel a little special that you’d choose to sketch him but also very embarrassed. In return, he tries drawing you. Might not be as good and there are a few rough sketches that were thrown in the fire, but he wanted to return the favor. 

Josephine

“Oh! Look at the detail and the softness! I wouldn’t have even thought it was me from how stunning it is!”

-Absolutely gushing over it. Josey’s always had a fascination for the arts and to be the subject of the piece from someone close to her? Adores it, even asks to keep it. She has it tucked away in one of her favorite books. Will always compliment your art even when talking to dignitaries.

Leliana

“I commend you on your artistic talent. Though, I’d ask you not to sketch me. Perhaps one of the ravens would make better practice?”

-Like Josephine, Leliana has an eye for art. She loves looking at the little details in your sketches and finds it a surprise that her face is amongst the papers. As much as she appreciates it, she’d rather her face remain a secret. She is your spy master, after all. Though, if she becomes Divine, she keeps the sketch as one of her favorite pieces of her. 

Vivienne

“Darling, as much as I’d like to say you're wasting your talents by leading the Inquisition instead of honing your skills, you are equally talented in both. Most usually fail to make me look this stunning.”

-It might not show on her face or in her words but she loves it. Several times people have been commissioned to paint her yet none come even close to your level of detail. More points if it’s of her smiling or laughing, the lines on her face as well as the wrinkle around her eyes gives her a sense of…normalcy. If she becomes Divine, she commissions you to do her portrait, no one else.

Varric

“You drew me? I think that’s gotta be one of the scariest pieces of your art I’ve ever seen! When you're done, can I keep it?”

-Though it doesn’t sound like it, he brags about it constantly. Even when he’s making fun of his slightly crooked nose or how his eyes might seem smaller than other dwarves, he’s complimenting the skill you put into the very minute details of his face. Varric will try to pay you for it even if you refuse, later trying to commission a drawing of Hawke when they come around.

Cole

“Oh, it’s me! Not really, but it’s Cole. But you’re trying to draw me…I can still remember his face, then.”

-He’ll stare at it for hours, his shoulders down. It’s been sometime since he’d been able to see his own face, forgetting that he even had a face. To see you draw that face, the real Cole, just from looking at him makes him happy. Will ask to look at it every now and then, just to make sure it’s still the same.

Solas

“I must say, you are quite talented and steady with your hands. It does allow others to see how the artist sees. You certainly make me seem…at peace.”

-From one artist to another, he gives you high compliments with very few complaints. It is unusual to see him drawn in such a way since he’s so used to seeing only the mosaics. He meant to get rid of it when he left the Inquisition, but just couldn’t bring himself to do it.

Cassandra

“Inquisitor, though your craft is very beautiful and I admire how you can make these pieces, I must ask you not to sketch me.”

-Don’t get her wrong, she loves seeing your sketches but it’s mostly out of formality (and somewhat embarrassment) that she asks not to be your subject. If she becomes Divine, it’s one of the only pieces she prefers over the paintings. Though she does ask you, if you have the time, to draw something for her. When you give her a perfect picture of her brother and her, it’s one of the few times she truly hugs you.

The Iron Bull

“Holy shit. I’m alright when it comes to sketching, but you make it look pretty damn easy while so complicated! You even got my scars and the detail on my patch! Damn, boss!”

-Bull is used to doing quick sketches, usually of small details to make sure he could track someone or to remember something easier. Never had he really seen himself drawn so picture perfect that it completely baffles him. He looks at all the details with a smile on his face.

Dorian

“I can’t believe you managed to get my good side! In all honesty, though, this is remarkable. And not just because it’s me.”

-He had studied some art pieces before and never really found any he liked, but he has now found one of his favorite artists. Constantly asks if you’ve done any new pieces just so he can look at the heart that goes into them. Ask if you could teach him to sketch as such so that he can add better drawings to his research notes.

Sera

“What the fuck! That’s me! How the fuck! How did you do this! You even got my eyes to be lined up! How the hell did you do that?!”

-We all know Sera’s drawing style. She keeps saying the same things over and over again because she’s at a loss for words. Except for cuss words. Along with the rooftop hangouts, she insists that you two just draw together sometimes. Some of the goofiest drawings come from these times, especially one of a cartoonish Coryshit falling from a very detailed tower.

A little speech bubble near it says “Oh shit, I shat myself!”

Blackwall

“I…I’m honored to be one of your subjects. Not to blow my own horn, but this looks stunning. You really are something special, hm?”

-Blackwall has done a lot of sketching himself and finds your art a breath of fresh air. Other than looking at bits and pieces of his reflection, he usually tries to avoid seeing himself. So when he sees your drawing of him, he almost doesn’t recognize himself. You both trade sketches of each other just for fun and even sketch together.

[mrs-snape5984]

“I will follow you into the dark…”

“If there′s no one beside you, when your soul embarks, then I’ll follow you into the dark. (…) The time for sleep is now. But it′s nothing to cry about, ‘cause we′ll hold each other soon in the blackest of rooms.” (“I will follow you into the dark” by Death Cab for Cutie)

Trigger warning: My thoughts of despair can be quite dark. If anyone has difficulties with reading these things, please skip the next five paragraphs.

I’m struggling with ME/CFS for 1,5 years now and my life, as I knew it before, has changed drastically. Damn, I’ve lost so much…so much I’ve taken for granted, although my life wasn’t easy before this disease, either.

The small things in life, which have always felt so naturally, are gone for me. Driving my car, being active with my three children, going to work, taking care of my household, meeting my friends and family, making a phone call, taking care of myself, watching TV, listening to loud music, reading more than just a few pages of a book, drinking a glass of wine, leaving the house or even my dark room in general….everything was just taken from me by this fucking bitch of a disease, called ME/CFS!

I feel so stupid for having regarded these things as a matter of course….and I would rather relinquish the things I’ve gotten instead: The pains, the fevers, the lack of orientation when I’m leaving my darkness, the fatigue, the brain fog, the disability of comprehending things, the hypersensitivity to dealing with noises and lights, the lack of understanding from others…the list seems to be endless.

Every little thing too much results in another “crash” of my disease…and it’s getting worse every time. I’ve lost some friends over this period of time, my children have lost their active and funny mother and on some days, I’m trying to fight the thought away, that I’ve lost the sense of purpose in my life.

It’s only going downhill from here…further down into the darkness, which is now the only stability in my life. I’ve lost the grip on myself…the understanding of who I really am. What is left of myself?

Sure, I still haven’t lost my sense of sarcasm and my rather dark humour. I’m also sure, that I’m still an empathetic person, who’s interested in other’s thoughts and feelings. And maybe that’s exactly, what I should rely on. These are parts of my personality, which this goddamn disease ME/CFS hasn’t stolen from me.

The other thing, no one, not even ME/CFS, could ever take from me, is my love for Severus Snape. Since 21 years, I’m clinging to him, letting him comfort me and console my troubled heart and soul. He’s the one, who’s following me into the dark…being my unwavering companion in these rough times.

When I commissioned @madfantasy for this stunning piece of art, we’ve talked a lot about the meaning behind it. Mani, my dear friend, I’m beyond grateful for your understanding of the feelings, which I wanted to express with this artwork. I’ve never met anyone else in my entire existence, who had the ability to grasp every nuance of my emotions, transforming them into something so powerful…so creative…so beautiful!! You are such a gem of a soul and my heart swells with joy for being counted as your friend. I’m sending you my love! 🖤🖤🖤

🖤 Severus & Julia 🖤

[fanfictionismyaddiction]

Chronicles of a Gothic muse

Social Media AU

Pairing: Zak Bagans x reader

Summary: follows the captivating life of a darkly elegant influencer as she navigates her new relationship with paranormal investigator Zak Bagans, blending her gothic aesthetic with their shared love for the macabre and mysterious.

______________________________________________________________

📍Location: Old Gothic Cemetery

Among the silent graves, I find peace… the whispers of the past remind me of the beauty in every shadow🌙🕯️

realzakbagans: You make even the darkest places feel like home…🖤

aarongoodwin: That’s one way to spend the day… kinda jealous of the ghosts you’re hanging with 👻

Fan1: You make cemeteries look so peaceful and romantic. Such a unique perspective

friend2: This is so ethereal and hauntingly beautiful. You belong in a dark romance novel🖤

jaywasley: This is one of your best looks yet. Pure gothic elegance

friend1: The way you connect with these places is so inspiring. You’re like a real-life gothic heroine🌹

Fan2: This image is pure art. You have such an eye for beauty in the macabre

Fan3: You look like a Victorian ghost, lost in time. Absolutely stunning!

Fan4: Please tell me you’re going to do a photoshoot like this again. This is breathtaking!

📍Location: Your Apartment

A quiet night with my favorite companions: a good book, a cup of tea, and the lingering presence of those who came before us📚☕️

realzakbagans: Wish I was there with you, but seeing this is the next best thing…🖤

billytolley: That’s one cozy gothic nook you’ve got there. You and Zak should do a reading together!

friend2: This is the dreamiest vibe. Can I come over for a tea party in the dark? 😍

Fan6: You’ve just given me major inspiration for redecorating my space. This is goals

freind3: Everything about this is so you. The perfect gothic home aesthetic!

aarongoodwin: Looks like the perfect setup for a ghost story… or maybe a love story?😉

Fan5: Your apartment looks like something out of a classic horror novel. I love it!

Fan7: Your style is impeccable. I need to know where you get your decor!

Fan8: You look so serene here. The perfect way to spend a night in

📍Location: Victorian-Inspired Tea Room

Afternoon tea with a touch of the macabre… just the way I like it ☕️🖤

aarongoodwin: That tea setup is next level. Do they have ghost-shaped cookies too? 👻

freind3: This is perfection. You look like a queen in her element 🌙

friend1: Tea with a side of mystery and darkness. I wouldn’t expect anything less from you🖤

realzakbagans: You make everything look like a scene from a gothic fairytale. Wish I could join you right now…🖤

Fan9: This is the most elegant thing I’ve ever seen. Your life is like a gothic dream!

jaywasley: Classy and spooky at the same time—nailed it!

Fan10: You always find the most amazing places. Please share your secret spots with us!

Fan11: Gothic afternoon tea? Yes, please! You look stunning as always

Fan12: This looks like something straight out of a Victorian novel. I need to try this place!

📍Location: The Haunted Museum

Lost in time, surrounded by ancient knowledge and forgotten spells... this is where I feel most at home📚🔮

aarongoodwin: Bet you’re finding all kinds of spooky secrets in there. Just don’t summon anything, okay? 😅

realzakbagans: You belong in every magical and mysterious place… especially here 🖤

billytolley: You look like you’ve found the ultimate treasure trove. Don’t get lost in those books!

friend2: This is so mesmerizing. I can almost feel the magic through the screen 🌹

friend3: You’re like a gothic sorceress, surrounded by her ancient knowledge. I’m obsessed 🖤

Fan13: This is the dream! Your life is like a gothic fantasy come to life

Fan14: I need a library like this in my life. You always find the coolest places to explore

Fan15: You look like you belong in a movie about witches and haunted tomes. Love this so much!

Fan16: This is giving me serious dark academia vibes. Can’t wait to see more!

📍Location: A Haunted Castle

Wandering the halls of forgotten places, where every step echoes with the past... and every shadow holds a story.🕯️🏰

jaywasley: This is epic. You’re living the ultimate gothic dream

friend2: This is everything. You look like a queen in her haunted castle 🖤

friend1: These vibes are immaculate. You and this castle are a perfect match 🌙

realzakbagans: You belong in every haunted place… and I’ll follow you to them all 🖤

aarongoodwin: You look like the ghost of the castle! This place suits you perfectly 👻

Fan17: This is pure gothic fantasy. You’re living the dream life, honestly

Fan18: need to visit this place now. You make it look so enchanting

Fan19: The atmosphere in this photo is incredible. You capture the essence of every place you visit

Fan20: This is giving me chills in the best way possible. Can’t wait to see where you go next!

[skyloftian-nutcase]

I have two things to share today!

First, I got a new book!

I am loving all the concept art. Also found out there's a manga in the back I've heard about, but had never actually read before.

Second, something Skyward Sword related I've been thinking about today that just so happend to tie into that.

(Yes, I'm still working my way through the game but I've seen pieces of the ending)

In a lot of LU stuff with Sky and Demise's curse, I see it interpreted that Demise was the one to cause the cycle of reincarnation for the three bearers of the triforce. I have a different interpretation on that though.

See, Demise only specifies his own reincarnation. "An incarnation of my hatred shall ever follow your kind. (Blood of the Goddess, Spirit of the Hero)" That suggests that Link and Zelda were already bound to reincarnation, and Demise simply added himself into that cycle.

Then I found the manga in Hyrule Historia, and that pretty much confirmed what I had been thinking. Demise's curse didn't cause the reincarnation cycle, it simply added himself into it.

Would love to hear your thoughts on that, if you have any!

Oooo Hyrule Historia, that’s fun! :D I’m glad you’re enjoying it :)

That’s an interesting take on it! Haha Demise just shoved himself into the cycle too, like “I WANNA PLAY TOO >:( ” 😂 I can see that honestly

I mean, if you really do wanna hear my thoughts, I guess I’ll share 😅 I don’t think my take on it is a very popular one though. 😅

First of all, I disregard all mangas as they’re not canon. Like I can enjoy aspects of them and whatnot, but I’ve never read one and don’t intend to.

Secondly, the entire idea of First’s existence bothers me lol, sorry. Skyward Sword heavily implies that Hylia fought her own war against Demise and didn’t need some man to help her, and I liked that. Like LET HER FIGHT HER OWN DANG BATTLES BLAST IT. STOP WITH THE CONSTANTLY NEEDING A HERO TO SAVE HER AND FALLING IN LOVE AND—anyway that’s just a pet peeve of mine. Also, his existence would imply that Sky’s just another hero in the cycle rather than the start of it, and I liked the idea that Skyward Sword was the start of the legend, not just another chapter - and the game even heavily implies that it’s the start. It has fun callbacks, like Zelda giving Link a sailcloth based on the tradition that Hylia gave her chosen hero that—and wouldn’t you look at that, she’s Hylia and Link travels into the past to fight Demise and is called Hylia’s chosen hero - he made his own legend!! I adore that!! First’s existence and story completely derails all that, so I’ll just stick to canon. ☺️ Many people like him and they’re more than welcome to enjoy him, I just disregard him haha

As for the reincarnation, I guess it varies based on what people think reincarnation is. The way I’ve always viewed it is that if someone reincarnated their soul hops from life to life. So it’s the same person living different lives. But LoZ contradicts this when Hero’s Shade appears in Twilight Princess - that’s two separate souls, but they’re both the Hero. So it isn’t exactly reincarnation, then. And Zelda only reincarnated once - when Hylia became Skyward Sword Zelda. The rest of them, at least according to Demise’s curse, are her descendants. So neither Link nor Zelda are the same person traveling across time and destiny - instead, Zelda is bound to her bloodline, while Link is chosen by the goddesses when a hero is needed because he has the courage to do it. The Spirit of the Hero, as I interpret it, is Skyward Sword Link, who is bound by the curse, who acts as a spiritual companion and aide to the current Hero, though neither of them is really able to communicate, who imparts connections to his destiny (why Link gravitates to Zelda, why he might feel strange connections to items or places, though the games never really show that’s the case), who protects them when they cannot protect themselves (why Twilight turns to a wolf instead of being lost in the twilight realm, why the Triforce randomly splits in Hyrule Warriors and protects Wars from dying against Volga when it’s never shown to be a weapon or shield before).

But that’s just my take on it, Nintendo leaves it very vague so we can all play with our own ideas! :)

[surroundedbypearls]

The Seal and the Ravens

Prologue: Daiyu Princess Astra has a visit from her fair friend.

Excerpt below the cut!

Astra grew up kind of heart and fair of face, and never learned of her lost brothers. She studied her languages and her art and her music, studied the laws of the land that would be hers to rule. She had learned from a young age that her father expected her to be special, and she was not. So, she tried to be the greatest version of herself that she could, and avoided him in the corridors.

Astra occupied herself with her duties, with socialising with other visiting noble children from all around Tirnaeia. A regular visitor of theirs was the lord of the Jade Manor, a beautiful estate on the western isles. The lord had a daughter about Astra’s age, named Daiyu, and a beautiful young wife named Jing. Daiyu’s mother had passed away shortly after her birth, but her disposition was always sunny, her smile always wide, her lips painted red. She had been born with skin white as snow and long, shiny hair as black as ebony. Astra had always envied her beauty, but could not dislike her for it, for she was so kind.

“You will have to visit us one summer, Astra,” Daiyu said during a visiting winter where she and Astra were both fifteen. “You would love it. The island has the most beautiful blossoms you’ve ever seen. The sea is so clear in the summer, you can see every fish.”

And Astra longed to go with her, to see the Jade Manor for herself. But her mother was forever reluctant to let her wander, and so she simply crossed her fingers and hoped she might make the journey at least once, before she became queen.

She and Daiyu often wandered the halls during her visits, examining the artwork and old books in the library, investigating hidden nooks and crannies and running before the staff could catch them. Neither of them had siblings – at least, as far as Astra knew – and had few companions their age. So, this was what they were doing on the fateful day when Astra came to understand what had happened to her brothers.

She stopped in her wandering in the hall, glancing up at a painting of Queen Annchi, the last Sun Maiden. Annchi was never painted standing on the ground; always floating like a goddess or seated in a chair. She was ethereal and beautiful, and resembled Daiyu’s dark hair and delicate features more than Astra’s own. She looked to have been a noble queen.

“Astra, what’s in this room here?” Daiyu asked, rattling the handle of a particular door.

“I don’t know. I’ve never been inside.” As Astra stepped up and eyed the door with Daiyu, she recalled the key her mother often wore around her neck. “But I know how to get in.”

More on The Seal and the Ravens here! Leave a comment or an ask to be added to the taglist.

[youreallyshouldtalkmore]

Dark Imagination_ Part 2

A.N: Did I really just come up with a 10-part Genshin Impact Reverse Harem Vampire Husbando AU? Yep! But, I had to stop the count of husbandos somewhere, so I’m keeping it simple:

Zhongli, Alhaitham and Neuvillette are officially my top three husbandos, in that order.  So they will have the honor of being the main vampire coven we are following in this story. 

Genshin Impact MasterList

-------------------

It had been three days since you had arrived to this world. Although the sun rose and set like your world, you found yourself sleeping in and rising late to stay up into the night. It was hard for you to stay up all night, and none of them pushed it. Secretly, they were happy that you hadn't actively run away from them. 

Well, you thought about it. 

But what was that saying, better to deal with the devil here than whatever devil might await you out there? 

But you realized quickly that none of them attempted to harm you. Neuvillette and Zhongli went out of their way to chat with you, hoping that it would put you at ease. You barely saw or exchanged words with Alhaitham. Or rather, he made no move to speak to you any more than the day you came to this world. 

Such an evening found you, blowing your cup of tea in the tearoom, allowing the silence to be your companion. You were used to silence, after all. You turned the page in the book you found from their library. Once they gave you a tour, and you discovered it, you had been hooked. 

“Did you find something to your liking, once again, my dear?” 

You looked up to see Zhongli walking quietly into the kitchen.  

It was weird, none of them walked with audible footsteps, but they did have reflections in the mirror. Alhaitham had only snorted at this, “I’ve read what humans make vampires out to be. Yes, we have reflections, no garlic and crosses aren’t harmful to us. The only true thing is that we don’t like the sun, but we can manage that if we aren’t mortally wounded. And a vampire can be killed by destroying his heart.” 

It was nice to know that the legends of vampires were largely the same in both worlds, even though reality was different here.

“What are you reading now?” Zhongli asked with a small smile, as he took a seat next to you and began to pour his own cup of tea. 

“I kind of got capture after page one.” said by way of excuse to the story you were reading as you held the page with one finger and flipped to the cover of the book. 

Zhongli chuckled, picking up the cup and blowing on it, “If it pleases you.” 

You ducked your head at his words before peeking up at him. You had always loved tea and was astounded of the different types of tea that were available here. Many you were certain didn’t exist in your world. 

And you had no idea why, but watching Zhongli make and drink tea was like watching art. Even the simple act of him enjoying tea, captured your gaze. Over the last few days, you had spent time with Zhongli as he made his tea. One of which took six hours!! But you found you quite enjoyed the time spent with him. 

You looked back at your teacup before taking a sip. Then you went to pick up the teapot to pour yourself another when a gloved hand, folded over yours. You looked up with eyes wide. 

“Allow me…” 

You pulled your hand back, allowing Zhongli to pick up the teapot to pour you another cup. 

Not one drop splashed. 

You swallowed as your head dipped once again. A soft touch on your cheek, had you looking back up. His knuckles lightly touched your cheek as he frowned, “Did you get enough to eat today?” 

“Yeah, there was enough.” you murmured.

“That’s good. Then you are well?” 

You nodded, “Just fine.” 

You saw Zhongli’s amber eyes flash once as his touch ghosted down your cheek to your neck. You shivered as it went further, trailing down your arm, until he lightly grasped your wrist.  You should have pulled back, but for some reason you didn’t, quite enraptured by this new development. He gently pulled your wrist towards him, as his amber eyes glanced down at it. Then his thumb was gently running over your pulse. 

What would you have done if you knew he could hear your pulse the moment he entered the door? At that moment, you didn’t know that all three of them could hear the ebb and flow of your heartbeat even as they went to ground. Even as they sleep, the blood in your veins was their lullaby. It had never been as loud or as clear as now, since you were pulled into their world. You didn’t know that all three had planned to make you want for nothing, to entice you to stay in their world of your own freewill. 

Would they even let you go back? 

This was not something that any of them were willing to face right now. 

You gazed up at Zhongli, as his lips parted, allowing you to see the fangs that poked from them. 

Somewhere in you, you were aware you should stop this. What kind of storybook did you get dropped into? Did you even want to continue this dark story? Exactly what awaited at the end? 

Then Zhongli’s lips ghosted over your pulse making your heart skip a beat until his tongue darted out, swirling over the pulse of your wrist, once. Twice. 

Your breath hitched and your heart stuttered. 

“Zhongli….” 

You snapped your head up and snatched your wrist back to find Neuvillette standing in front of you, two across from the table. You were thankful for the interruption as you blinked. What would have happened if Neuvillette hadn’t come? You scanned around and sure enough, Alhaitham sat, in the furthest chair with his gaze in a book. His gaze briefly shot to you before moving back to his book. If you hadn’t been looking, you would have missed it. 

“Xiao, escort your Lord to get himself together.” Neuvillette commanded. 

Xiao appeared in the room and bowed, “Yes, sir.” 

Zhongli seemed to snapped to himself and looked apologetic, “F-f-forgive me…” 

Neuvillette interrupted, “Save it for later. Just get out now.” 

Zhongli snapped his gaze up to Neuvillette and bared his fangs, “Who do you think you are talking to?” 

You froze, ducking your head into your teacup that you had gripped. 

Neuvillette only gazed down at him, unimpressed. 

Xiao intervened, “My lord Rex Lapis, please. Think of your Blood Mistress. We needn't frighten her. That is all Monsieur Neuvillette meant.” 

That seemed to calm him down and Zhongli stood with a sigh, “Yes, you are…correct.”

Without a backwards glance to you, Zhongli exited, followed by Xiao. 

Neuvillette finally turned his gaze to you, “Are you alright, Miss. Y/N?” 

“Ahh, I’m fine.” 

Alhaitham flipped a page, “Your heart rate is through the roof. Breathe…” 

“You have nothing to fear. Forgive me for not arriving earlier.” Neuvillette sketched a bow, “And I’ll apologize for Rex Lapis. He is ancient and has been without his Blood Mistress for a long time now. Even longer than Alhaitham or I. He usually has rigorous discipline to be admired, but now that you are here, his control is taut. I do not say this as an excuse for him, merely to explain. But even I admit you are quite a temptation. Ah, perhaps it would be wise for me to keep this quiet right now, lest I cause you to misunderstand. Oh, dear, am I rambling?”  

You looked taken aback by his words, even as Alhaitham snorted, but Neuvillette lavender eyes continued to rest on you as he added, “...But even still, he as we all should exercise caution. Again, I make our apologizes.” 

You shook your head, with a small smile, “It’s fine. I understand.” 

“Thank you for your grace.” 

Part 3

[writing-for-life]

Sandman Master Post and Intro

Hi, I’m so glad you’re here! This started out as a small writing blog but has developed a horrifying (^jk) life of its own over the past two years, so it was about time I just faced the facts:

A Sandman Blog it is!

I organised the links and tags to all my Sandman stuff for you to make it easier to find your way around.

I love getting asks, about analysis, about my fics, prompts or generally just to chat, so see this as an encouragement to slide into my inbox…

[For quick reference:]

[The Ultimate Sandman Character Tag Library]

[The Women of the Sandman Tag Library]

[Sandman Comics: Original Artists Library]

[Sandman Reread (Comics)]

[Sandman Rewatch (Netflix)]

[Sandman S2 News, Casting and Speculation]

[Sandman Reference: How to Collect the Comics, Companion Books, Annotations/Reference Literature etc]

[Sandman Movie Concept Art by Jill Thompson & John Watkiss]

[In Light of Recent Allegations]

Ordered by topics (recommended):

Sandman Meta-Analysis: My literary/conceptual/psychological analyses. I have also written some musical and art metas. You will find further links via all three.

The Sandman Book Club Community: Just follow the link if you’d like to join.

Sandman Fics & Poems: My own work, mostly m/f and f/f canon pairings and OCs, both long fics and shorter works.

I’m also Dream’s Therapist. I think we all agree he needs one.

Sandman Art (general tag that contains all art posts, from fan-art to gif-sets. Separate tag for official Sandman artists. Plus the very few pieces of my own art I’ve ever posted on here).

Sandman March Mania was an event we specifically ran for the comics art lovers, so check it out.

Sparkle Content Curation (a not-quite-serious collection of Dream/Morpheus thirst-trap fan-art and unhinged posts). Please also peruse the tags #contraceptive sparkles, #glitter herpes and #murphy and his cool hat (yes, I am sort of responsible for the #muhulhu tag on here) if this hell-site has left you in a state of being desperate for laughs

A Little Intro…

…and why this blog will keep on existing

Once there was a girl with so many words, so many images, so many songs in her head that had no place to go. So she decided some of them will just go here…

Well, that sounds a bit contrived, but it’s not entirely untrue. Apart from the “girl”-part, because I’m at the younger end of Gen X. Or the “no place to go”-part, because some of my work actually *did* go places. Just not the stuff I decided to put on here…

Which is mostly Sandman stuff right now, let’s be honest (I fell in love with it when I was 16, and it still has a tight grip on me three decades later). And the fact that my blog a wild mix between my metas, my fanfic and a bit of my doodling already shows the pull in different directions I have experienced for most of my life:

I guess I’m just a multi-hyphenate who can’t make up her mind what she wants to do with her life, so she tries to do it all and ends up burned out half of the time.

Somewhere along the way, I managed to publish a few novels under a pen name, and only a select few people know about it. And I intend to keep it that way.

I used to draw much more (mostly pencil and ink), but between working and having a family, something had to give, and if I have to choose, writing always comes first. But I doodle and experiment a lot in Procreate, and it usually helps me when I procrastinate on my writing. I drop the odd drawing in here (like my profile pic), but I don’t see myself as a fine artist, and I’m in perpetual awe of the talent I see on here.

This is just an account for unapologetically being me, with all my hyperfixations—and undoubtedly some pointless shitposts just for fun…

In light of recent happenings, I explained my personal stance and, by extension, why this blog will keep on existing.

[saruin]

I can agree that Veilguard has its issues, there are some things I’m not a big fan of and some choices that as someone who’s played through the entirety of the series multiple times and read the books/comics don’t make a lick of sense to me, but overall it’s a good game imo. I’ve been taking my time and exploring in it but to me it read like if DA2 was given time to be fleshed out properly while still being new. I think because of the lore and previous writing they wrote themselves into a bit of a corner, but that’s was inevitable at some point. If this is supposed to be a soft reboot then maybe that means the next game goes back to having that more open choice RPG feel people are saying it’s missing

Personally, I went in with no expectations because I love this franchise and I know most of my headcanons and thoughts aren’t EA’s world state, which is fine. But I’ve been really enjoying the game. The combat is a bit of a learning game curve compared to what we’ve had before but the heart of the games has always been the story and the interaction you have with your companions but that’s just me. People can be mad and upset and complain about being a “DA purist” or complain that they don’t like the art style but at its core everyone has a different experience and connection to the game and no single DA game looks like another. The styles are all different! And if something doesn’t match with your story for your player character you can literally write fix-it fics and headcanons if you’re really mad about it *cough cough all of us who wanted the Hawke/Varric romance that they scrapped*

At the end of the day, I’d say take everything everyone’s been saying about the game with a (large) grain of salt. Take your time, explore, and enjoy it. It’s a got beautiful scenery, you can pet the cats and Mabari, and the cc for both Rook and the Inquisitor made me tear up because I literally haven’t seen my girl in 3 years and here she is with pretty flowing hair and still (in my mind because I haven’t seen her in game yet) is a rebel with a cause

Sorry for the long rant and rambling also, it’s just neat seeing creators and blogs I follow on here get excited about what is pretty much my favorite game series when in my offline experience is that it’s a very niche series to like. Also love your content for sims btw! I always get excited seeing when you’ve got something new cooking

Thank you for this. I think it's easy for people to forget that everyone doesn't experience games the same way. I don't listen to critics and I ignore people's opinions on stuff I'm genuinely excited about because I want to judge it with my own two eyes. I appreciate other people's perspective but I don't have to agree with them, what fun is that.

I remember when I was about to start playing Mass Effect and was asking friends for input (cause I didn't understand at the time that people could be extremely biased) I was told over and over again that ME3 was the worst game ever and to not even play it, to just get the story online somewhere. Well I ended up playing it despite their opinions and ME3 is my favorite game in the series.

Thank you again for giving me your opinions and I'm so happy you're enjoying the game. Also thanks so much for liking my content 🩷

[odditiesnoctobermidnightroad]

"Mouse the Witching Cat" ebook

Mouse is a Witching Cat (familiar; a witches companion) but would rather be her own witch instead. With her friends Fluffy, Cavity, Monty Cristo, and Crooner she embarks on a journey to build up enough magic and cast a spell that will make her outsides look more like her insides. But, is it possible there’s more to being a witch than just looking like one? -------------- “Mouse the Witching Cat” is a story of discovery and learning to value what you are instead of what you aren’t. It’s a story born out of a struggle for self-worth, but also born out of a love for animals, monster mashes, spooky stories and all matter of Autumnal media.

When I published “Mouse” in 2019, it was without much thought or direction into really making a book and so is very amateur. I’ve since accepted that this book will always be in an experimental limbo of sorts and so the next stop is this polished, updated ebook version. This ebook has new art made specifically for it and future reprintings, from redraws to extra scenes. It has more fun messing around with text and it’s been thoroughly scrubbed of it’s original cursed typos from the Beta edition.

Because of its style, “Mouse” is a better book for adults to read to their children rather than a tool to teach kids proper grammar, but for those that know what they’re in for, it’s an interesting read. I live and breathe off your support and your purchasing of Mouse is one of the biggest gifts you can give me as an artist. I could never be more thankful!

[vanoefucks]

book recommendation tag game!

rules: recommend as many books as you like. please include genre and some basic information on it (either your words or a copy+paste synopsis). feel free to include cover art, a personal review, trigger warnings, and anything else! just don’t spoil the book!

Tagged by @dekarios <33 ty!!

BITTERTHORN : Kat Dunn

Genre: Gothic Fantasy Romance (sapphic) (adult)

Blumwald is a town overshadowed by an ancient curse: in a sinister castle in the depths of the wild wood lives a monstrous Witch. Once a generation, she comes to claim a companion to return with her – never to be seen again. Now that time is drawing near once more... Mina, daughter of the duke, is grieving and lonely. She has lost all hope of any future for herself in Blumwald. So when the Witch demands her next companion, Mina offers herself up.

I adore this book and although it took me a while to warm up to the prose (it had been a while since I’d read anything other than ya) it drew me in and I finished it over the course of 2 train rides. It’s beautiful and made me cry but it’s so??? Comforting in the strangest way.

ALL THESE BODIES : Kendara Blake

Genre: Mystery & Horror (ya)

Summer 1958. A gruesome killer plagues the Midwest, leaving behind a trail of bodies completely drained of blood. Michael Jensen, an aspiring journalist whose father happens to be the town sheriff, never imagined that the Bloodless Murders would come to his backyard. Not until the night the Carlson family was found murdered in their home. Marie Catherine Hale, a diminutive fifteen-year-old, was discovered at the scene—covered in blood. She is the sole suspect in custody. Michael didn’t think that he would be part of the investigation, but he is pulled in when Marie decides that he is the only one she will confess to.

I love a small town vibe & saw this at the charity shop with its shiny! Cover so obviously I picked it up. I read it slowly but only because I didn’t want it to end. It was so cool to read it from the point of view of Michael and the details get pretty fucked up so warning with that. Heavy discussions of murder and gory details.

PRINCE OF THE SORROWS : Kellen Graves

Genre: Fantasy Romance (lgbt) (adult)

the book gives you a list of tws at the start worth looking at

Without an academic endorsement to make him valuable to the high fey, Saffron will be sent back through the veil to the human world. When mistaken identity leads to Saffron learning the true name of brooding, self-centered, high fey Prince Cylvan, what begins as a risk of losing his life (or his tongue) becomes an opportunity to earn the future he wants. But as other human servants soon fall victim to a beast known only as “the wolf”, Saffron realizes he has embroiled himself in a manipulative reach for power like he never anticipated. Between the wolf, uncovering forbidden magic, and his growing feelings for the prince, Saffron will have to decide which is most important to him

Now this series is literally what made me buy a kindle in the end. I love the rowan blood books even if the second one after this had me tearing my hair out. It’s the first and only fae book series I’ve read and I don’t think any will ever hold up to this. The characters are to die for and the author does so well with having you root for saffron. I love it so dearly.

Bonus: the Spider-Man and & Deadpool comic run LMAO

Ok so!! I’ll do 3 for now ^^ thank you again for the tag <3 i love reading even though I’ve slowed down due to work :[ & I'll take any chance to share some of my faves.

Tagging @leonbastralle @landgraabbed @ambrozians & @gallusneve (no pressure whatsoever as always <3)

[carriagelamp]

I don't know what to say here this month. February, eh? Hate February, the Thursday of months, I'm just clinging to sanity while I wait for spring. Here are the books that helped me through what is basically a month of overcast skies and fucking winter rain.

Candy Color Paradox v6

Candy Color Paradox is a series I’ve been reading for years now and I’ve really enjoyed how the relationship in this one has progressed over that time. It started somewhat similar to how you’d expect a yaoi manga to start — lots of tension, drama, smut, and some light antagonism between the two main characters who both work at the same weekly magazine. But it’s eased into something that’s really quite genuine. This most recent volume focused entirely on moving in together and all the little complications and insecurities that arise because of that.

Circus of Fear

A 1980s D&D choose your own adventure novel so the quality is exactly what you would expect, but at the very least it was a fun little diversion. Doing a CYOA book with a friend can honestly be a blast, they just feel so silly, and the setting of a magical, vaguely sinister circus is always an enjoyable backdrop. We managed to get a good ending on the second try! So yay! I'd honestly like to read it again and try some of the other routes that also sounding intriguing.

Dungeon Meshi // Delicious in Dungeon v1

Me and my girlfriend started watching Dungeon Meshi because we’d seen so much about it on tumblr lately and wow. Just wow. It really is doing something special and we’re completely enamoured. Since we’re waiting for new episodes, I picked up the first book so we could compare it and the show — it’s really impressive how closely they align! And the art is really lovely, it stands out and not just for it's food glamour shots.

For those who haven't been seduced into watching the anime yet: Dungeon Meshi / Delicious in Dungeon is a DND-style parody in which the adventuring party needs to enter the monster-filled dungeon to save one of their companions who got eaten by a red dragon. They need to get to her and revive her before she entirely digested. However, to hasten their quest (and indulge one of their member’s strange obsessions) they begin to hunt and eat the monsters that fill the dungeon instead of trying to bring food in from the outside. This is 80% a cooking anime and 20% a comedic adventure anime. Book or show, doesn’t matter which, you should give it a try if you haven’t.

Down Among the Sticks and Bones

I really enjoyed the first book of the series, Every Heart A Doorway, and was excited when I found out there was a prequel about Jack and Jill and the world they visited. This can either be read as a prequel or it works fairly well as a stand-alone novella; the story is about twin sisters who have always been forced to fill very precise societal roles by their parents. One afternoon, they stumble across a magical door in the bottom of a chest and venture down into the sinister world of the moors where one sister is taken in by a vampire lord and the other by a mad scientist. The story looks at how the sisters grow and change when apart from each other and their controlling parents. Excellent story, the language is just so enticing.

Midnight Sun

My brother has been watching all the Twilight movies with a couple of his friends. Listening to him bitch about Jacob like it was 2007 reawakened something in me, so after laughing myself sick I had to go and relisten to Midnight Sun. Still genuinely and unironically love this book, it’s pure trash but by god it's my trash. I’m a simple soul.

Odder

I’ve been hearing great things about this book, and it’s hard to go wrong with Katherine Applegate so I was excited to finally read it. This is a book written entirely in free verse poetry about an orphaned otter and her experiences being rescued by the Monterey Bay Aquarium. It’s inspired by a true story (several true stories, actually!) and it's very worth picking up even if you don't usually go for poetry. It's charming and reads very easily.

Old-Fashioned Cupcake

A middle-aged salaryman is feeling worn down by the humdrum nature of his life, which is filled mostly with work these days. This manga kicks off with his coworker suggests that if he wants to deal with the feelings of boredom and aging, then he needs to do something to shake up his life: so he suggests that they “act like a pair of teenage girls” and go to a fancy new pancake shop just because it seems fun, never mind that it’s not something grown men are supposed to do. This manga ended up being pretty darn cute -- it was slow and compassionate and loving -- and it managed to convince me to buy its sequel.

Professor Calculus: Science’s Forgotten Genius

A ridiculous little book I bought on impulse that was nevertheless a lot of fun to read. It’s a tribute to Cuthbert Calculus, celebrating the 80th anniversary of his first appearance in Tintin. It dives into some of the inspirations that went into the character, and also lovingly and cheekily explores some "facts" we know about Calculus as a person… and wildly extrapolates more from there. It was a cute little read for anyone who’s a fan of the series and wants something a little extra.

Return to Oz

I recently rewatched this movie and maintain that I like it more than the original film, sorry. It made me decide to grab the novelization because I’m always a sucker for a novelization <3 This one was pretty solid too, it actually included details that were left out of the film and improve the stories overall cohesion which is always the marker of a good novelization.

Return to Oz takes place several months after the original film, when Aunty Em and Uncle Henry are trying to build a new house and get the farm back in order before winter. Concerned by Dorothy’s continued belief in Oz and her increased insomnia, Aunty Em decides to take her to a doctor who offers healing through electroshock therapy. Yeah, it’s exactly as fucking creepy as it sounds… You get a scary aslyum, a sinister head nurse, being strapped to a hospital gurney, and new baddies that scared the bejeezus out of me as a kid. Anyway, before she can be electrocuted, Dorothy manages to escape back to Oz where she discovers her friends are in dire need of help. It’s like Alice: Madness Returns but from Disney. Go watch this movie.

She Drives Me Crazy

I had very mixed feelings about this book. It’s about high school basketball player, Scottie, who has suffered a bad breakup with her girlfriend who moved schools to play on the opposing basketball team. Things go from bad to worse when she gets into a car accident with her arch-nemesis, the cheerleader Irene. One things lead to another and bada bing bada boom we have a fake dating scheme so that Scottie can get back at her ex.

This book had some genuinely fun moments (I’m always a sucker for a fake dating scheme, and the characters were reasonably fun) but it’s biggest failing is one that I’ve seen more than I like in current queer lit. It just tries so. fucking. hard. to be unproblematic. Like yeah, it’s great to see healthy relationships but it was SO explicit about it. So much therapy speak, way more than feels natural for a conversation or internal monolgue, especially when they’re in high emotions. The “banter” was very scripted. It was a book that felt like it had a laugh track. And while the ending was satisfying enough, it was also… I don’t know. Anticlimactic. We just spent so long tying everything up in a perfectly neat little bow that it really just strolled to an ending that was obvious from a mile away. 

Like look, I get it, we want this to be squeaky clean and beyond reproach, but I have NEVER entered a fake dating story hoping that everyone was going to be really sensible and respectful and level-headed. Fake dating is the slapstick of the romance world, I want some Shakespearean level bullshit, please don’t try to gussy it up for me. Gonna go and rewatch 10 Things I Hate About You or something just to feel things again. Or maybe pop over to AO3, your average fic writer at least understands that when I say fake dating I mean I want something absolutely fucking unhinged and filled to the gill with mutual pining.

So yeah, if you want a sports-based high school sapphic romance: it’s not a bad book. It went down easy, I liked listening to it in the mornings when I needed something light before work. Some bits I even quite enjoyed. But it’s not going to rock your world.

Shuna’s Journey

Well, if nothing else you can really, definitely tell this was done by Hayoa Miyazaki. I’m honestly not really sure how I felt about it. The art was beautiful, and the story was pure undiluted Miyazaki through and through. The narrative was very nice. The story and message was poignant. It was a nice book. I can’t say it’s stuck very heavily in my mind, but I enjoyed reading it. It felt like a precursor to Princess Monoke / Nausicaa, perhaps?

The Witches

The story of one child and his grandmother needing to contend with witches. Not fairytale witches. Real witches. And all their horrible, child-hating ways. One thing I will always love about Dahl is that when he wants to write about something Horrible, nothing will stop him. His villains are truly villainous and the witches are a prime example of that! I loved the description of the witches and their horrible, sinister deeds, especially in the first half of the book. This sure is Child Murder: The Novel! The ending was absolutely not what I was expecting, and I appreciate that. Such a bizarre book.

[emmersreads]

Foreign Bodies: Pandemics, Vaccines, and the Health of Nations by Simon Schama 3.5/5 stars

bear with me lads, this is an Extremely special interest book review

Foreign Bodies: Pandemics, Vaccines, and the Health of Nations is a generally good book marred by a few incidents of absolutely deranged framing. I liked a lot about it, but it lacks focus. While it is an in depth look at an interesting subject for a popular audience, it doesn’t always hold up on an academic level. Ultimately, for me it worked better as a companion read to Seth Dickinson’s The Masquerade, which also deals with colonial medicine and hygiene, but in a fictional setting. Foreign Bodies covers a lot but it doesn’t stand up on its own.

The elephant in the room was, for me, that Simon Schama is an art historian, not a historian of science or medicine, and you can tell.

Or, well, I could tell, because I am a historian of science; I have two very expensive degrees about it. That’s why I have so much to say about the minor things that are wrong with this book.

First, the good. Foreign Bodies is a fun and eclectic look at the unfortunately not widely popularized niche of medical history: colonial medicine. I would actually highly recommend it as an anti-colonial read to flesh out one’s understanding of British occupation of India and China. The exploration of the racialized and colonial politics of hygiene and cleanliness — and how the principles of sanitation formed a cornerstone of the ideology of empire — is perhaps this book’s best contribution. As I mentioned above, I read this book directly after The Masquerade series. The series uses a fictional setting to explore the ethics of resistance to colonization. The most complete resistance to colonization includes refusing to adopt colonial practises of sanitation and medicine which do save lives. Is this a necessary sacrifice? Medicine is the poisoned fruit of empire; access to it is used to as both carrot and stick to ensure colonial obedience. The Masquerade is very thoroughly researched and incorporates a dizzying array of historical influences, and Foreign Bodies serves as an exploration of many of them. It contextualizes the fictional constructions in our real history.

I also, personally, loved the verbose literary style. This book is way way more complicated than it needs to be, but I found it fun and funny. My favourite example was the use of ‘conurbation;, rather than ‘city’ or even ‘metropolis’. What the fuck. If you prefer clarity and directness, you might not enjoy wading through this book’s extremely languorous prose, but for me it had a certain academia-camp charm. And I can appreciate the compulsion to explain and clarify that leads to long-windedness like this. I feel #seen.

What I appreciated less were the weird quirks of framing. Foreign Bodies is pretty aggressively anti-colonial. I’ve read a lot of books where the author is reluctant to explicitly ascribe responsibility for the cruel and unusual behaviours of colonial regimes — all of which were ultimately perpetrated by individual human beings — and this is not one of them. But it exclusively uses the 19th century European terms to refer to Asian locations. That was the detail that tipped me off that this was Schama’s first foray into the field. Unless the context is extremely specific to the 19th century geography or regime, I’m used to seeing Myanmar, not Burma. The 19th century names are technically not incorrect, it’s just not the sort of thing I’d expect to see in an academic work.

The other thing I wouldn’t expect to see, and to my mind the far more egregious error, is the continuous framing of inoculation as new and scientific while previous regimes of sanitization were superstitious and religious. Actual historians of science simply do not think like this.

I think it’s absolutely accurate to say that the Europeans, and especially the British, approached protocols of carbolic sanitization with a fanatical zeal, but to suggest that this was the religion of carbolic to the science of inoculation is misguided and ultimately distracts from the book’s more interesting questions. First, let’s quickly dispense with the idea that science and religion are two opposite poles of knowledge, as diametrically opposed as black and white. It’s especially out of place in a book that is otherwise attempting empathy towards non-western traditions of medicine, culture, and belief. Science is just another belief system grounded on very specific verification procedures (as opposed to faith, or criticism of certain texts, etc). The sooner we understand that science is a system of belief rather than a privileged access to The Truth, the better we will be at handling the times that science is wrong.

Because science is wrong all the time. Our understanding of our reality is is constantly changing as we refine pre-existing theories and discover new ones. Carbolic was exactly such a case. Fifty years previous, sanitization was the scientific doctrine bravely fighting the superstition of doctor’s honour and the religion of laudable pus.

I found it especially deranged that Schama frames inoculation as part of the vanguard science of bacteriology in opposition to sterilization. Sterilization is grounded in bacteriology just as much as inoculation, if not more (the evidence for the effectiveness of inoculation was exclusively statistical in this period, not microbial). Disease is caused by germs. To treat the disease, use carbolic to kill the germs. The germ are invisible and everywhere, so carbolic your shrivelled British heart out. This is mixed, of course, with the colonizers’ fundamental lack of respect for the personhood of the colonized, and you get the so-called religion of carbolic. It’s just out-dated science strained through a conservative and slow to adapt colonial bureaucracy.

This framing of inoculation and sanitization as two opposite poles of scientificness obfuscates the fact that inoculation was was just as much a part of western science, the western culture and technologies that were steam-rolling their way over Ayurvedic and Chinese medical systems. Does it make it better than this fruit of empire fulfils its promise? Schama isn’t interested in asking, and treats inoculation as unambiguously good, free from the colonial baggage of the rest of medicine. I get that the exploration of this question would be limited by the extreme paucity of non-European sources, but the execution here was still disappointing.

Ultimately, while Foreign Bodies is informative and interesting, it works best as a companion read because it doesn’t really come together by itself. It addresses the obvious, but fails to move any deeper. I have a distinct memory of being struck by the realization, a third of the way through the book, that I didn’t know what it was actually about. Schama draws a connection between viruses and bacteria as foreign bodies causing disease (this is the detail that separates germ theory from humoural theory), to suspicion of inoculation being grounded in fear of injection with foreign bodies, to key figures in the history of inoculation as foreign bodies both within the Asian countries where they worked and within the Western European empires that employed them. It’s a tantalizing idea, but Schama never explains what this connection is (beyond a literary image) or what it might mean. There is meat on that bone. What is the meaning of native and foreign in medicine? How does it interact with our ideas of sanitariness and cleanliness? How can we use this information to decolonize medicine and hygiene in the future? Foreign Bodies pivots so hard from wrapping up its many historical tangents to bemoaning COVID vaccine denialism that it never has time to address them. (This is putting it charitably; put uncharitably, one might suspect that this sort of thing never occurred to Schama at all).

I think the book is an admirable effort for a non-historian of science. It hits the mark way more than it misses. I just did find myself wishing that it had a little more of an understanding of the history and philosophy of science as a field. We’ve been over this sort of thing, but if that work never gets picked up but outsiders, we’ll keep spinning in circles.