#its so fun <3 and i love reading the mini blurb

[127s]

having notifs on for mutuals is so fun

[superblysubpar]

Hi everyone!

I just wanted to share a quick little note about my blog and writing things. It's a little long, so I'll put it under the cut.

But I just wanna say that I'm so grateful and happy for and to see all the new faces around here (I logged back on and the amount of messages and new followers and just...wow), but I'm also so incredibly grateful for those of you that continue to stick around and have been here from the beginning. It makes me very emotional! Anyways, I'm not going anywhere, there's just some updates below on the general vibe of my blog for the foreseeable future.

I love you, mean it, and I'm so happy you're here 💛

I'll be sharing Summertime Magic throughout the week this week, thanks so much for your patience with it all. I'm really excited to share all 3 of these stories, and I've been having fun writing them. It's been over a year since their initial tease to the tumblr world, and I feel like I'm finally ready to set my babies free out of the nest so to speak 😅

That being said, it may be the imminent spooky season upon us & the stories I've been more gravitated towards to read lately, the general fandom drama that seems to always suck every ounce of fun out of here, or just my attitude and attempt towards practicing writing/having fun on here vs writing stories for real projects in the real world, but I'm feeling a Big Shift coming with my writing, specifically on my blog.

A lot of the stories I've had planned here, for the fandom, I'm starting to tweak and mess with and then I think - hold on. This could be my own. And while I could write them initially as fanfic and twist them later (much like what I did with wcil) that gets really complicated and it's a lot of work, and I'd love to just write them as my characters from the get go.

But there's obviously stories I want to write and practice with, and many of those lately are not quite "rom com" centered. There's still love stories, there's still smut, but I'm craving diving into practicing writing and reading more of the sci-fi, upside down, horror, apocalypse vibes lately and, don't hate me...

Angst.

So, like I said, the smut, the love, its not going anywhere, it just might be coming to you in some new packages. I hope you stick around to read them.

To off set this shift, I am gonna open my requests more, but not in the way I've typically done. I'll explain this later, but I'm gonna have some mini writing challenges for myself, and this will involve many a blurb of the smut and fluff and spice varieties. So if that's why you've followed me, have no fear. It's just the longer versions of those stories are taking a break is all, so I can give my full attention to the rom coms I'm writing outside of tumblr that I hope you'll get to read or watch one day soon.

Anyways, this is terribly long and you honestly deserve everything good in this world if you've read this entire thing.

I hope you stick around, and if not, no worries, I still love you 💛

[mrscoriolanus-snow]

The Author

!Mini-series! A young, aspiring author who escapes her realities within books, stumbles across one particular book which peaks interest in her mind. The author, too peaking her interest. Do their paths cross? Or does she study him from afar?

Fem!reader Tom Blyth x Reader <3

Part: 1

I stand at the book case, headphones over my ears. My fingertips grazing the hard back books as I long for one to catch my eye, or give me a sign to read it. Nothing... Nothing sticks out, and nothing tickles my fancy. Reading has always been such a let go for me. Escaping my reality, to jump into my characters reality. How fun would it be to become a character you love?

I quietly sigh and begin to walk off to the next shelf, when I feel the bottom of my shirt tug a little. My body turns around to the source of this tugging. A small black book has my shirt hooked to its pristine edge. This is it. The calling I have been waiting for, the sign I needed. Slowly, I reach out for the book, and I pick it up. It's a smaller book, yet quite hefty.

"You're going to be a challenge. I like a challenge" My words flow out in a quiet whisper. I make my way through the daunting shelves, and find a seat in the lounge. Not really even thinking, I find myself there till after dark, and over half way done the book. Did I really get that engrossed? What was so special about this book?

On the back, there is a small get to know the author section. "Hm. Tom Blyth.." I examine his picture. A young man, with dark brown hair. Bright, piercing blue eyes. Quite a handsome man if you ask me. The blurb explains how he is new to writing, and already has two best selling novels.

"Oh the things I would do to be a fresh writer, AND achieve two best sellers awards. I mean no wonder he's won them. You'll get lost in his books. Just like those eyes" I laugh at myself softly and shake my head, and go to the front counter

"Checking out one book please." The lady at the desk gives me a curt smile, and I return the gesture as I hand her my library card, soon leaving with the book in hand.

[charliespringsleftconverse]

Secret Santa, reporting for duty!

I don't have a ton to report on, other than I'm in full writer mode to make more progress on your fic! I'm having a lot of fun with certain scenes, but the other way I realized the timeline on which certain events hinge doesn't make the most sense in regards to canon, so...squint a little when reading haha. We are all about the vibes here, not logic.

I actually have two things for you today: a snippet, and a mini playlist with some fic vibes for you!

First things first, the snippet:

Bringing Rhys here, not out of necessity, felt strange. The threads of two different lifetimes were getting tangled up in each other. She thought she had moved past it all, but…maybe not all the wounds had healed.

And now for the playlist: I know we've discussed Rewrite the Stars, but here are some other songs that also give me feysand feels for this fic.

Nothing's Gonna Hurt You Baby - Cigarettes After Sex

Never Let Me Go - Florence and the Machine

The End of All Things - Panic! At the Disco

Better Love - Glades

invisible string - Taylor Swift

Aaaand now I go back to my writing den. Have a great week! <3

SQUINT A LITTLE HAHAHAHA I LOVE YOU

THE BLURB. THE PANIC. ITS ME IM THE PANIC. OMG BESTIE. SHOULD I BE CONCERNED FOR THEM

Ooooh this a great playlist! I know some of these songs, I will definitely be listening to these all! 💕

Anddd yesss Invisible String is very much so a Feysand song!

[heloisedaphnebrightmore]

Sirius Black Masterlist by Heloise Daphne Brightmore

Harry Potter Characters Masterlist | Masterlists 

All the fics are in alphabetical order, for the newest fics, please head to Recently Posted.

If you enjoy my stories, please consider donating and supporting me on Ko-fi. <3

Sirius Black imagines/blurbs

[A] Alive [0.3k words]

Sirius gets injured and regardless of his reassuring touch, you find it hard to process that he’s alright.

[U] Unbroken promise [0.9k words]

Sirius promises a breath-taking date, only to leave you waiting. When Remus arrives, your heart realises before your brain does that something might not be right.

Sirius Black one shots

[A] A haunted night [1.7k words]

Sirius has been battling with his nightmares, but he decides to fight them alone, fearing to share his weaknesses with you. That is until you can't stand his pained whimpers echoing across the corridor anymore.

Absurd ideas [4.7k words]

Sirius’ jealousy causes a misunderstanding which inevitably ends up with him getting worked up and everyone else being confused. Most of all you, when you realise he thinks he knows what you feel, but he couldn’t be farther from the truth.

All your fault [1.9k words]

Sirius’ boredom causes you to end up in detention. Or so you think, but he has a different perspective on the events and you clearly can’t find the golden middle.

Alone? Together! [1.5k words]

The war has taken a toll on everyone and Sirius finds himself useless whilst hiding at Grimmauld Place. His own thoughts are eating him up, wanting to be reckless, but not daring to lose those he loves. When you arrive to sooth his worries, your strength reassures him that he is not alone, that whatever happens, you can face it together.

An unrefusable offer [3.2k words]

Sirius has been trying to get you to go out with him for the longest of time, but you can’t accept his interest in you. Will his cunning little plan change your mind at Lily and James’ wedding or will it end in a disaster?

[B] Be my (fake) girlfriend [4.8k words]

Sirius is fed up of girls throwing themselves at him, so he asks you to be his fake girlfriend, but you seem to enjoy the fake relationship more than you were supposed to.

Best Christmas Present [3.1k words]

Sirius goes back to you after he has escaped Azkaban. But when he finds you with a son, he wants nothing but to escape the heartbreak, not even listening to your explanation.

Beyond Friendship [8.3k words]

To get back at your good-for-nothing ex-boyfriend, you ask Sirius to help you out and pretend to be your new boyfriend, which seems to agitate your ex just as you expected. However, you couldn't have anticipated how Sirius’ infuriating presence could actually turn out to be not only fun, but almost essential.

Bitter Past [3.8k words]

Sirius has been relentlessly asking you out on dates, when you finally agreed, but in your mind it’s all about revenge.

Bundle of joy [1.4k words]

Part of the series What they call home, but can be read separately. When you realise there’s a little baby growing in your belly, it terrifies you. Both you and Sirius had a rough childhood and now that there’s a new life inside you, your ability to raise a child concerns you, especially as you’re in the middle of a war.

Busted [4k words] [18+]

You and Sirius have always been close, but in the last year you have been even more involved with each other. However you didn’t want others to know about it, so you kept it a secret. Up until you both made a mistake.

[C] Christmas lie [1.8k words]

Your relationship with your parents has never been a good one, therefore they plan to spend Christmas without you. But you don’t want Sirius to spend it with you either, knowing he would have a better time with his friends. So you decide to lie.

Cookies [1.6k words]

You always loved to bake, so spending time in Hogwarts’ kitchen has become a daily activity of yours. This time however Sirius joins you and he has other ideas beside tasting your delicious cookies.

Crimes of jealousy [3.8k words]

Sirius becomes jealous when he hears that you agreed to go on a date with a fellow Gryffindor and he decides to do something about it.

Cuddles [1.1k words]

Sirius and you are cuddled up in a bed, enjoying a warm, sunny morning with a couple of sweet confessions.

[D] Damned words [2k words]

Friends. And a bit more of the benefits. That's what you and Sirius were to each other. Until he uttered those damned words maybe in the heat of the moment, maybe as a result of the amount of alcohol he consumed. Either way, you should have escaped.

Degrading feelings [1.8k words]

James thinks his friendship is more important than your relationship with Sirius so you and Lily decide to take revenge

Distant friend [3.8k words]

When rumours start about you and your housemate, Sirius decides to keep a distance from you, which you do not take well.

Do you mind? [1.9k words]

You think you know better what Sirius would say and when you actually do, Sirius ends up speechless. However, what you don’t know is what Sirius would do.

Don’t play games with me! [2.5k words]

Having a crush on Sirius was as normal as the sun coming up every day, but as a friend of his, you tried to keep it a secret. But then James decides to get involved and corners you in an uncomfortable conversation.

[F] Fear of prejudice [2.2k words]

You didn’t find being a barista a particularly attractive career, but when Sirius takes on the role, it stirs up some unexpected feelings inside you. However the reason behind your newfound interest isn’t in his occupation, but something that you dare not to voice, ashamed of your sinful thoughts.

Feelings [1.2k words]

You have been having all sorts of feelings, causing your head to become a mess. Sirius, being a sweet boyfriend stays by your side.

Fluffy supporter [2k words]

You have been in need of a support animal since first year, but unfortunately your puppy couldn’t accompany you at the start of year. Padfoot comes along to help you out, without you knowing that the dog is actually your boyfriend.

[G] Gentle Seduction [3.5k words]

You are more than aware of Sirius’ feelings towards you, but he doesn’t seem to want to take the first step. You decide to force him to realise he has no other options.

Go on a date with me! [3.6k words]

You have had enough of craving for Sirius’ attention so you decide to take the first step. Things however might not turn out to be so great.

[I] I missed you [1k words]

Sirius is missing you, his girlfriend, and James finds the situation rather entertaining. It seems James and you are on the same wavelength when it comes to Sirius being a love-sick puppy.

Interest in you [3.2k words]

You have been interested in Sirius for years, but you didn’t want to date him. It has been bugging him to no end, leaving you annoyed.

[M] Make me [3k words]

Sirius is unable to shut up and you are at a tipping point. Even after being kindly asked to shut up for a mere second, Sirius doesn’t take your request seriously.

Memories of a Pensieve [3.4k words]

Your friends have been tired of you and Sirius dancing around each other so they show you what they see on a daily basis to convince you.

Misunderstood feelings [4.1k words]

Being Sirius Black’s girlfriend had its pros and cons, but unfortunately you could only see what was missing recently.

[N] Not so perfect [1.6k words]

Sirius is the perfect son. Captain of his quidditch team, Headboy of Slytherin, dashingly handsome with perfect grades and proud parents. Expect that he has fallen for a Muggleborn Gryffindor.

[R] Relying on [2.5k words]

You are not sure if you can rely on your friends anymore, the continuous bullying and harassment, the mean words playing in your head over and over again, almost pushing you too far from them. [Platonic]

[S] Second chance [2.4k words]

Sirius has been distant and rude, eventually breaking your friendship. He is angry, you are hurt, both of you pulling away even further. That is until James and Remus decide to meddle.

Space that he already had [5.3k words]

Your boyfriend, Sirius has been more distant than ever and he doesn’t even realise it even when you confront him.

[T] Teacher’s pet [5.3k words]

Sirius being your teacher meant he was someone you could never have. You are struggling with your feelings and how ethically wrong what you feel is, even though he is only 5 years older.

Truth behind the Polyjuice [2.3k words] 

The marauders decide to take your love life into their hands, but things turn out badly, leaving you full of anger towards them.

Truth or Dare [4.5k words]

You and your friends are bored so you start playing a little Truth or Dare, but it doesn’t necessarily go as planned. Or does it?

[U] Unexpected expectancy [3.4k words]

You and Sirius have never talked about having a family on your own. When you become pregnant, you panic and don’t know what to do.

Unforeseen mission [5.8k words]

You have always thought Sirius cheated on you back in Hogwarts, so you avoided him. But then Dumbledore decides to send you on a mission together and you accidentally agree.

Unprotected experience [3.1k words]

A couple of nights of fun left you sick and vulnerable. When you finally realise the cause of your sickness, you do not know what to do.

[Y] Your decision, yours only [1.7k words]

Sirius is having trouble with his family and you are trying to be there for him.

Sirius Black headcanons

[M] Movie genres [0.2k words]

What movie genres Remus Lupin, Sirius Black and James Potter like.

[P] Pets they brought to Hogwarts [0.4k words]

What kind of pets Sirius Black, James Potter, Remus Lupin, Peter Pettigrew and Regulus Black brought to Hogwarts in their first year. 

Sirius Black mini series 

[F] Facade pt. 1|2 [1.1k words] Facade pt. 2|2 [1.1k words]

You have been silently suffering pretending to be someone else, but noone can see the real you.

[H] Hot stuff pt. 1|2 [6k words] Hot stuff pt. 2|2 [4.2k words]

University is causing you a great deal of stress, you are couped up in your room, having your own cave. That is until your friends decide they have had enough and drag you away from your studies for a night out. But when your eyes meet a familiar face, one that you thought you would never see again, you find yourself once again captured by him, the reasonable part of your brain betraying you.

[L] Like a dream pt. 1|2 [3.4k words] Like a dream pt. 2|2 [2.9k words]

Sirius and you were supposed to be enemies, but your crush on him might not be as unrequited as you thought.

Lesson from a Prefect pt. 1|2 [4.6k words] Lesson from a Prefect pt. 2|2 [4.4k words]

Being a prefect meant you didn’t have a good relationship with the Marauders. However Sirius takes an interest in you after you give him a piece of your mind. You are tricked into going on a date with Sirius and you are dreading every moment of it, but he turns out to be more than a lost because.

Love in the Order pt. 1|2 [3.3k words] Love in the Order pt. 2|2 [3.3k words]

Finally finishing your mission you return to the Order’s headquarter as per Dumbledore’s request, where you run into Sirius Black, the man you have been craving to see. Feeling the happiness of being reunited doesn’t last long, you have to part ways with Sirius to attend to another dangerous mission, but things don’t turn out the way you have planned.

[T] Teach me how to kiss pt. 1|2 [3.7k words] Teach me how to kiss pt. 2|2 [3.7k words]

You have asked your crush out on a date, but you never dated before. You ask your best friend, Sirius to teach you on the physical part of dating, which he reluctantly agrees to. You realise that you have caught feelings for him, but knowing he would never return your feelings is beyond painful. 

[U] Useless warning pt. 1|2 [3.9k words] Useless warning pt. 2|2 [3.5k words] 

Sirius is one of your best friends who happens to be dating Marlene. She isn’t particularly a good friend of yours, but you do get along. She agrees to go out with Sirius, all the while she is aware of your feelings. Things get complicated as you are unable to keep your feelings to yourself anymore.

Sirius Black series

[W] What they call home [14.3k words]

You’re in need of protection and Albus is ready to give it to you after years of help you have been providing the Order with. However your presence is not welcomed, especially by Sirius Black himself as you already have history behind you. However Sirius agrees to the wizard’s wishes, which forces you to be trapped in the same household. [Completed]

© All rights reserved ® in regards to my characters, their behaviours and personality. I, however do not own the rights to the gifs and photos presented in the chapters, unless stated otherwise and any of the characters and story line matching the original script by J.K. Rowling and Warner Bros.

[itsdappleagain]

1-10!

:D

1) Who is your favorite character to write for and is this the character you find easiest to write for?

I love writing for Carmen if it wasn't clear already. She comes easily to me and its easiest too put her in scenarios tm. I actually don't often write for others but I really want to experiment with it.

2) What is your favorite fic of yours?

Hmmm. Good question and one I'm not sure I know the answer to. I like Upon the Sword, and I also really like a few of the shorter ones like the cardinal and the kitten and and the world was framed with red. currently a few wips are occupying my headspace as well

3) What fic of yours do you think is underrated?

uhhh and the world was framed with red I guess. I'm happy with all of my fics though. i think i could have made that one more engaging and have better street appeal tho

4) What fic of yours were you surprised by how popular it was?

well, I started out writing on wattpad- I posted two chapters of a fic and came back months later (i forgot lol) to a bunch of requests for me to continue. that really surprised me, and the relative popularity of upon the sword and love, carmen surprised me there too.

5) Do you like one shots or multi-chapters?

I like both but I usually do multi-chapters :D

6) Do you outline your fics? If so, how?

very, very chaotic bullet point lists usually. I will generally jot down an idea I have and if its lucky ill come and write down some base plot points. from there i'll usually fill in points for an "arc" and then set off (or start the fic and then fill in the plot...more usually. oops). one time for i think hearts and stars i did a full 20+ page document full of character outlines, motivations, emotions, and relationships with others plus plot, character goals, brainstorming, notes, title ideas, tons of blurbs, scene ideas, and even a mini screenplay format scene which i eventually added back in.

7) How do you edit your fics? What do you look for in your edits?

I usually write chunks at a time and when I start a new writing section I read the entire thing over and edit what doesn't read correctly for me. If something doesn't work and its a really big mistake I either ignore it (wow such writer lol) or entirely rework the plot to fix it lmao

8) Do you take inspiration from real life? If so how do you incorporate it into your fics?

Uhh sometimes, yes. It sort of depends on what you mean- when I get injured, I take pictures of the blood or bruises for future reference. I write detailed synopses of pain and unique traumatic medical experiences, plus any depressive or anxious episodes I may go through. Uhmm lets see...I do a lot of research for some bits of the story and I'm often inspired by other things. they help me incorporate a sense of emotion and some realism. i also take inspiration from romantic body language I see portrayed in real life and media because I have 0 experience in that department

9) Do you visualize scenes in your head before you write them? (Can you picture the setting, character body language etc)

oh GOSH yes. currently for say you'll share with me one love one lifetime the scene I have planned for the (eventual) chapter 3 has been runnign through my mind for...maybe months. I plan out a basic action first, usually- in this case a specific consequence of carmne's injury and build a scene around it- who, where, the reaction, the aftermath, how to make it gayer, and how to make it tie in with everything else.

10) How do you feel about writing plot, setting/description, inner thoughts, dialogue?

hate plot honestly. could do without it, but you cant is the thing so i usually wing it (im trying to get better lol). i thrive on setting and description, LOVE that shit. inner thoughts are very fun to do and I like trying to weave a lot of emotion in there. dialogue is...ok. usually i feel a bit awkward with it unless I really get lucky (like a bit of dialogue I feel pretty proud of is the scene in hearts and stars where ivy asks carmen why she doesn't see herself as a person in chapter 11 and i think that confidence is reflected in my reader's reactions from what I've seen :3)

thank you for the ask jo!

[luvargas]

     i think i just saw LUCILA “ LU ” VARGAS ride by on a golf cart . at least i think it was her . after all , CREDIT IN THE STRAIGHT WORLD BY HOLE was blasting on the transistor radio . maybe she was on her way to work , i hear she’s a PERSONAL TRAINER . but she totally could have been on her way to SNEAK IN A SMOKE AT THE GARDEN . guess we’ll never know . you’ll definitely know its her when you see LOOSE AND TANGLED HAND WRAPS , BUTTON BADGES ON VEGAN LEATHER ,  AND HEAR THE SHRILL SOUND OF BICKERING around the country club . let’s just hope she stays off the green after hours or else the sprinklers will get her !

( new muse, messy thoughts, u get the gist. pls know the views of this chara do not reflect my own. the name’s katya, 21, she/her pronouns & im ready 2 party. feel free to hmu wnvr or drop a like to plot n ill com 2 u ! x — oh n pls be a pal n read this quick disclaimer. tysm ! )

BASICS

24 years old

15 april 1997

5′1″ or 1.55m tall

bisexual cis woman, she/her

aries sun, aqua moon, and aqua rising

love languages : quality time & acts of service

BIO POINTS

kid o’ divorce, lived w her ma in chicago til she was 6 then w her dad in highlands til 14 then back to her ma ! 

def a daddys gorl. so used to her white pop’s leniency that livin w her strict latina ma durin her teen yrs was So Not Her Vibe ergo * cue her rebel grrrl phase *

did not finish hs ! left senior yr 2 to go w her “ radically progressive ” college bf to [ insert dev country. ] they broke up after a few mos but she kept at that life for a couple more yrs

seen some places. lived in new countries. done some shit. some good, some sus, but all generally well-intentioned. tis a whole thing but u get the gist, nywy !

lu’s back in da usa by 21. rel w the ma is strained but the pa is chill w stuff, they kept in touch. he said shell get her college fund if she gets her ged so she does !

her dad is v active n stuff so shes just always been v sporty w him. lu turnin 23 w zilch plans worried him so he implored her to get certified as a personal trainer ! n when she did, he called in a few favors w a pal he knows et voilà ! ur hired.

LU AT WORK

shes been workin at the country club fr a little over a yr now. most her clients are influencer-type gals n they luv her bc shes can take rlly cute pics n stuff for content. lu sorta likes some of em n she fakes the rest for the bread. u can bet she clowns all em richies behind their back   

unless she got clients, catch her runnin’ about the club n minglin’ w the other workers. does it annoy mngmt ? yes. n she luvs that. but bc her soon-2-b-karen clients luv her n wont stand for her bein booted, she can milk that impunity

actually knows her shit n lowkey rlly enjoys the work. she picked back up the boxing n tae kwon do she did when she was younger plus she was always in the track team at school. v healthy lifestyle save for her smokin vice n the party moments

PERSONALITY 

passionate ! has lotsa opinions. helluva a drama queen, bit of a loud mouth, argumentative n stubborn but her heart’s in the right place, albeit a lil misguided. comes w the whole activist bit, bitin her tongue just aint it. highkey makes everythin political n smtms gotta realize .,.,. it just aint that deep chief. some say shes needlessly defiant, but maybe thats a in the beholder typa thing ? fingers crossed 4 lu’s sake

fun, fun, fun ! can be real naggy but shes no buzzkill. wannabe anarchist-slash-mutineer who wants 2 stick it 2 the man ! get rowdy go crazy

fight, fight, fight ! goin back to the first bit, she talks big. esp w like ,, men n the whites lol. she can actually walk her threats tho she isnt actually violent. w arguments, she likes to start em but finishin is ... ruff.  also any dare, she wont back down in either doin it or arguin why doin it wld be smth-ist. shes not the sharpest tool ok rip lu

loyal legend ! fr her friends n buds, shell turn a blind eye. pals r the only exception ! truly ride or die n will do errthng 4 em. v much a believer in the power of community n ppl needin ppl or wtvr, yk, all that stuff. shes mouthy but like, she helps ppl 

here’s a brief blurb n a more coherent look into lu as a character

TIDBITS

lu can understand spanish but hers is a bit broken, tis her secret shame shhh

she doesn’t believe in the institution. any institution. u name it, shes got beef

pls dont fact check her she cant hear u

probs lowkey thinks shes better than u bc shes vegan

prefers 2 be called “ lu ” n ny1 who insists on lucila is dead 2 her 

comments abt her not lookin like a pt w her height n frame will result in an earful n a dramatic outburst. it aint worth it chief

watches lotsa sports w her pops. mostly indiv ones. mma, boxing, tennis, track, etc

dont ask me abt her principles n politics, i cant explain em either. v inconsistent n just messy at this point tbh but here’s a lil attempt ig

she drives a 2018 prius n lives in a p nice 1br apt outside the club

her mom’s middle class n her dad is almost upper-middle class. he isnt a member of the club but, like ,,, he cld be if he wanted to lol. he spoils her sm while she hasnt rlly Spoken to her mom besides civility, rip they both stubborn, tis a vargas thing

she is v much in a comfy position money-wise n dsnt hav much Need to hustle but sis does hav a couple of organizations she regularly sends some dough to so thats nice ig

she went fr grassroots activist to a veteran twitter/tumblr/reddit/wtvr ranter n a change.org gofundme petition regular. is it burnout ? is she ok ? honestly who knows

WANTED CONNECTIONS / TAKEN CONNECTIONS

found family ! pals n squad wanted. y’all gotta hav patience or ear plugs to power thru her self-indulgent mini-rants but shell luv ya back tenfold !

carpool buds ? cld be a pal ! or maybe yall had a lil argument or small beef but lu still drives ym bc her pride ? said mother earth first even tho the tension n silly drama is funny 

homies to smoochies ! just sum nsa makin out. cld be pals, cld be flirty, idk, but if u wanna kiss her shes probs ok w that

smoke bud ! just sum1 thats her go-to 2 smoke w on her breaks. knows not to call her out on how its not healthy fr a trainer yada yada she knows ok. let her live

an ex ? idk yet shes not rlly datey but thats out there

crushes ! this bitch hot but does she know how to flirt ? not rlly. watch her fumble

debate club ! aka sum1 she bickers w relentlessly. its valid, sum1 fite her. r u a worker or a club member ? either works. its a whole club bc she can have tons, lu can be hella annoying n testy

clients ! self-explanatory. do they get along tho ? lets find out ! 

( im officially braindead now but if y’all got more ideas or think theres smth lu wld fit just lmk !!! down 4 wtvr, wld luv 2 hash it out w yall <3 ) 

[a-court-of-wanting-rhysand]

SO THE MINIATURE COLLECTION ARRIVED

and aside from Kingdom of Ash randomly not coming with the rest of the series sucking.. the mini collection is actually something i didn't know i needed ? (this update post turned into a comprehensive review and i'm sorry in advance)

(book depository is where i got these from and they ship seperate , hence why koa is missing.. but got that free shipping tho. in total they were $149AUD)

ALSO got my shipping confirmation on 6/11/19 and arrived 13/11/19 from uk to aus

here they are next to the paperback koa for scale

so whilst the front cover is pretty much identical to the full sized hardcover counterparts the backs of each books mention the character and colour for each different version instead of the blurb

now for each version (incase you had forgotten) with the assassins blade for example every time sam (or sam cortland in this case) is mentioned his name is written in the said colour for the book

i will say be VERY VERY VERY careful with the paper in these books they are super thin and silky and like you bet they're gonna rip easily so BE CAREFUL (theyre really nice to touch tho wowow)

now lemme talk about the prices. using the prices on book depository which is where i purchased these the original tower of dawn retails for $14AUD while the mini is around $28AUD.. but the original heir of fire retails for $15AUD and the mini is only $16AUD. with tower of dawn being the most expensive and heir of fire the cheapest (these numbers have been rounded to the dollar)

between the original paperbacks and the mini collection aside from a few cosmetic changes there isnt really alot of differences between them. you could get one over the other and not miss out on anything.

(crown of midnight paperback vs. crown of midnight mini)

the font size differences are definitely expected for the size but for those with visual issues it might be an issue

a throne of glass size reference in comparison to all its other physical versions (but also it just looks cute ok)

the pros and cons.

PROS

a good travel size

lightweight

something new for your sarah shrine

CONS

font could be hard to read

its the same damn book but smaller and just as expensive

is it worth it?

yes / no

as much as these are the cutest things in the world, i cant say they're worth it if you cant afford them. i don't regret them i love them so much but id say this for all the special editions. you're buying the same book you already own with like little to no difference. although this doesn't mean DO NOT BUY. they're fun and cute and could probably fit in your pocket so if you decide you need to take the entire throne of glass series on holiday with you, you're not gonna lose all your luggage space. but if you're thinking rent or this series its not worth your time

although lemme say i don't remember if this is a limited exclusive but even if it was i cant even say if its worth it. if you wanna save up or get someone to buy you a few for christmas go ahead but you don't really need them now. they can wait

tl;dr RENT IS MORE IMPORTANT BOOKS CAN WAIT

also i still love u sarah  ૢ(❛◡❛✿)  ૢ

shoutout to u if u read this far <3

[m0etenchandon]

First birthdays (reader x Gwilym Lee)

Pairing: Reader x Gwilym Lee Warnings: fluff I guess, some language, brief sexual suggestions but no smut Requested by anon: Could u do a Gwilym fanfic about your daughters first birthday and celebration with the boh rhap cast? I love ur writing ❤️ A/N: This idea is so cute, but I feel like I have read it before so many times so I´m just going to write a little blurb here. Side note, thank you for 800 followers! You are the best<3 Wordcount: 1.5 K

Masterlist

“Darling, you have to calm down”, Gwilym said, taking a step towards you stressed figure. He locked his beautiful blue eyes with yours, snaking his hands around your waist and pulling you close. His presence immediately calmed you, making you drop the balloon you were trying to tie off. All the air went out of it as it flew around the room and settles at your feet. Your husband smiled, reaching a hand up to cup your cheek. “It´s amazing, you´ve done such a good job. Everyone will love it, Sophia will love it, I promise”, he said, leaning down to press a chaste kiss to your waiting lips. You let out a breath you didn´t know you were holding in, letting your body melt completely into his warm touch.

“I know, but our little girl only turns one once”, you said as you pulled away. Gwilym hummed, starting to sway your bodies to an imaginary beat as he tightened his arms around you. “And besides, it´s really fun”

You had been planning her birthday for months, making sure every little detail was perfect. You had the food ordered and ready on the tables, the cute decorations filling your living-room, and your backyard filled with toys as there would be other kids present as well. Of course, you had also put out some beverages for the adults along with copious amounts of juice boxes.

“You know”, Gwilym started, running his fingers up and down your spine, “we could do this all over again if we had another one”

You pulled back enough to catch his eyes, watching them fill with love and hope. He was nervous, his teeth instinctively biting down on his lips, anxiously waiting for a reply to his blunt proposal.

“You want more?”, you asked, heart fluttering as you watched his face break out into a grin.

“I want hundreds of kids with you, darling”, he beamed, leaning down to catch your lips with his. “But I´ll settle for a few more”

You were just about to reply when you heard the door-bell go off, followed by your daughter crying just seconds later. Both you and Gwilym simultaneously sighed before letting an exhausted giggle fall from your mouths. Your hands slid down his chest as you stepped away from his embrace.

“I´ll get her, you answer the door”, Gwilym said, squeezing your hand before disappearing up the stars. Leaving you to ponder his proposal all alone. He wanted more kids, and he wanted them now.

“Y/N, hi!”, Joe yelled as you opened the door. He was almost completely hidden behind a giant teddy bear, his face barely poking out over its shoulder. You raised your eyebrows in shock, already wondering how the hell you were going to fit that in her room.

“Joe, that is one giant ass teddy bear”

“Only the best for my favorite god-daughter”

“You´re not her god-father”, you giggled, leading him into the living room. He, Ben and Rami had all claimed the position when they found out you were pregnant. However, to stop their constant fighting and bickering, you chose one of Gwilym´s older brothers. But they still thought of themselves as uncles.

“Not on paper no.. speaking off, where is the little bugger?”

Joe had just finished his sentence as Gwilym appeared around the corner, your daughter on his hips. She looked grumpy from her nap, but her little mouth immediately broke into a grin as she saw her favorite uncle Joey. That and the giant bear he was holding. In fact, it might just have been the teddy.

The house got more and more crowded as people arrived, your feet working in overdrive as you tried to tidy up and make sure there was enough food. Thankfully, Ben and Joe had taken your daughter off your hands. They were currently sat on the floor, taking turns in trying to make her laugh. A smile crept its way onto your mouth as you watched them make absolute fools of themselves.

“Guys, you´re going to scare her”, Rami said as he watched Joe pull a ridiculous face at your daughter.

“You´re just jealous she likes me more than you”, Joe answered, sticking his tongue out at him. Which your daughter apparently found hilarious, cracking an almost tooth-less smile at him as she clapped her little hands.

“You know I´m her favorite, just look”, Rami said, moving from his place beside Lucy to kneel next to Joe and Ben. He reached his hands out, his eyes lighting up as your daughter moved towards him immediately. “Hah! See, she loves me”, he cooed, hugging her to his body.

The three boys kept fighting for your daughter´s attention as you leant against the wall, watching with a huge smile on your face. She was adored by them all, and it made you so happy. Made you want to have another one you realized, your eyes falling on your husband, engulfed in a conversation with your parents across the room. His hands moved as he explained something, they always did when he was passionate about the conversation. That along with rubbing his beard, an action that always made the butterflies in your stomach go wild. He truly was the love of your life, but you were unsure of the timing.

“What are you thinking about, Y/N?”, a voice asked, pulling you from your stare. You snapped your head around to see Ben, holding out a glass of wine in front of him. You gladly took it, bringing it to your lips to take a sip.

“Just something me and Gwilym talked about earlier”, you said, trying to brush it off. Ben seemed to have other thoughts though, raising a bushy eyebrow your way.

“Y/N”, he warned, reaching out to poke your side, a giggle falling from your mouth. You had accidentally let it slip one of the first times you hung out that you were ticklish, and now he used it as leverage every time he didn’t get his way.

“Ugh fine, please don´t tickle me Ben”, you pleaded, taking another sip of your wine. It burned slightly as it slid down your throat. “Gwil told me he wanted more kids today”

Ben´s eyes went wide, almost choking on his wine.

“Really?”, he asked, his gaze falling on Gwilym for a split second. “How do you feel about it?”

“I don´t know really. I want more kids, I really do, but Sophia is still so young”

“Yeah, but it would still take at least 9 months. And that´s if Gwilym still has some spunk left in his junk at his old age”, Ben said, a grin forming on his mouth.

“Last time it didn´t take long, so I´m pretty sure he does”, you laughed. Gwilym had a ridiculous drive when you had started trying to get pregnant, going at it whenever and wherever you could. The thought made a slight tingle start in your lower stomach, a flush creeping onto your cheeks.

“Geez I don’t need the details, Y/N!”, Ben said, pretending to gag at the thought. You rolled your eyes, punching his chest.

“No but seriously, if you need a baby-sitter to, you know, get some alone time, I´m more than willing to take Sophia off your hands for a few hours”, he offered, shooting you a crooked smile before heading back to the other boys still sat on the floor.

“Well I think that was a success! Great job, darling”, Gwilym said as you returned from putting your daughter to sleep. He was tidying up the remains of plates with cake leftovers on them. “Sophia had the best birthday she could ever wish for”

You smiled, your shoulders finally relaxing from finally being alone with the man you loved. Gwilym opened his arms, letting you fall into his embrace. You buried your head into his chest, enjoying the feeling of his heart-beat against your cheek. He leant down and pressed a kiss to your head, wrapping his arms around you. His body warm against yours.

“It´s all worth it seeing that smile on her face”, you mumbled, hooking your thumbs into the waistline of Gwilym´s pants. He smirked against your head, knowing what that movement usually leads too.

“You know Ben offered to baby-sit her so we could have some alone time”, you teased, letting your fingers run over the top of his clothed behind.

“Oh really? Then I guess I´ll give him a call in the morning to arrange it. We need a date-night, darling”

“I don´t want to wait until tomorrow though”, you whined, pulling away slightly to meet his gaze. His eyes were darker than last time, a smug look on his chiseled face.

“Hmm, I´m sure Sophia will be asleep in a few minutes”, he teased, winking as he pulled you closer to his body.

“Gwilym, I´ve been thinking about what you said earlier, and I really want to have another baby”, you said, watching as his eyes widened in realization.

“Are you serious?”

“Yeah, I love you and I want more mini us”, you said, placing a kiss on his lips.

“Fuck a baby into me, Mr. Lee”, you teased. The seductive tone in your voice vent straight to his crotch, his hips pushing against yours as a whine left his lips.

“Your wish is my command, Mrs. Lee”

Masterlist

I don´t know if I should tag people because it´s so short and not what I usually write, but I´m going to do it anyway sorry not sorry

Permanent taglist: @tanya-is-dead, @meghans-corner, @killah-queenz, @mrs-tayylor, @sunflower-borhap-boys, @seasexnsun, @valkyrie-and-lokis-daughter, @joes-milk, @pantamemes, @unicornofdanger, @gwilymplots, @monochromedeacon, @pushthetide21, @finite-incantatem-7, @jiswoogannon, @personofinterest, @bensrhapsody

Taglist is open. I will add/remove you if you comment you want to, but I won’t reply (this is a side blog). If you want me to reply, send me an ask.

[davidmann95]

I think Wilson’s WW really picked up this issue! Also weekly comic thoughts?

Afraid I didn’t grab it, the last couple burned me hard. And a major notice right up front on this one: my local comic book store is closing, and while there are alternatives available I’ll be investigating, for at least a bit I’ll no longer be getting my comics Wednesday morning sharp, so please no spoilery questions. Anyway, I’m tired and haven’t really got any rants in me, so just quick notes:

Avengers #11: Really glad to see this run quickly coming into its own.

Batman Annual #3: Great, and I believe this is the first time I’ve seen a book note that Alfred is as much Batman’s father as the Waynes were Bruce’s.

The Batman Who Laughs #1: Snyder and Jock can still do the hell out of a Batman comic. Though the ‘poison heart’ bit was weird enough originally - makes sense as an idle fantasy of Bruce’s, though as an origin story it’s always been boring - but that Bruce literally figured that’s the case in reality is bizarre to say the least.

Doctor Strange: The Best Defense #1: Perfectly passable, though it didn’t live up to the first two. I can’t imagine this being done in isolation and then linked up after the fact in plotting sessions the way the other three apparently were though.

Electric Warriors #2: Didn’t hit me like the first issue, but still good.

Fantastic Four Wedding Special: A charmer! And it’s got Hembeck!

Goddess Mode #1: I wanted to like this one, and there’s absolutely stuff to like - the premise, the art, a few nice little moments - but this reads as very much trying to do every Vertigo/Young Animal first issue there’s ever been, and the script is clearly a first effort in the medium. I could see liking Quinn’s comics work down the line - I’m not really familiar with her beyond well, that - but it isn’t there yet.

Hawkman #7: Not sure what I think of the big reveal here (god, might I have an actual Hawkman opinion?), but this book is still fun.

Justice League Dark #6: I might be falling a bit out of love here after those great first couple issues, but we’ll see.

The Lone Ranger #3: Solid, but I think I’m done here.

Miles Morales: Spider-Man #1: Excellent, even if it couldn’t quite live up to the promise of the delightful, distinctly Marvel chutzpah of the cover blurb. Definitely foresee being in on this one for the long haul.

New Talent Showcase 2018: Just here for the predictably great Visaggio Wonder Woman short, but I’d say everything here was at least fine even if suffers in the face of last month’s gangbusters Nuclear Winter Special.

Silver Surfer: The Best Defense #1: Pretty, but I literally could not tell what was meant to be happening. I’d say it’s gonna come down to the finale to redeem this little pseudo-mini after it’s sort of sputtered out after those first two issues, but it’s gonna be Ewing and Bennett, so that’s a given.

Superman #6: Playing around with the storytelling? In my Superman comics? It’s likelier than you may think. But yeah, this still rules, the sharp turn was painful in exactly the right way while still setting up huge things for later, and that last page seemed as though it was executed the way it was specifically to defuse reader anxieties (an entirely fruitless endeavor, but nice to see the effort made).

The Unbeatable Squirrel Girl #39: Some of it I personally found a bit anticlimactic, but this is still probably the second best thing the House of Ideas is putting out these days.

[sea-salted-wolverine]

I'm still thinking about this so now you get to hear about it. Here's my ep by ep review of the season, with an emphasis on queerness and gender.

Spoilers, obviously.

Episode 1: exit strategies

Three genderless robots tour post-apocalypse earth and joke about various capitalist pressures that led to the demise of humanity and how different tiers of society tried to deal with it. There is a cat on mars making fun of elon musk.

Gender issues are vaguely alluded to when the robo hologram servant is coded as female. She also hates humanity and is evidenced as the start of the robot uprising, so points there.

Queerness rating: just a smidge over null. Sitting over here on the death and robots side of the axis.

Episode 2: Bad Traveling

Arguably the main character of this one is female. She's just trying to get her children to a better life. The last episode asserted that humans are the worst and this episode proved it. Everyone is a terrible person.

Queerness rating: null. Being gay or not being gay would have had absolutely no bearing on this story.

Episode 3: the very pulse of the machine

Dragging your friends body through the inhospitable alien desert so you can survive off her no longer necessary life support while she quotes poetry at you from beyond the grave sounds super straight. The acid trip full of naked ladies was coincidental, I swear. Just two women being pals contemplating existence during the weirdest acid trip of all time.

Queerness rating: are you kidding me? "If you are a machine, what is your function? To know you." Babe.

Episode 4: night of the mini undead

Heterosexual nonsense is terrible and ended the world. That's the fucking tag line. No really, read the episode blurb.

Queerness rating: this queer nearly peed herself laughing. It's good.

Episode 5: kill team kill

This is the storyline that happens when you give a bunch of tweenage boys some beat up G.I. Joe's, some bionicals and a teddy bear. Yes, it it stupid. Yes, everyone is a caricature. Yes, it is Very Straight Boy nonsense. That's The Point.

Queerness rating: an argument could be made for homoerotic masculinity, but please don't.

Episode 6: the swarm

This one gets the biggest ding for heterosexual nonsense, however it is relevant and the big scary that gets ahold of them refers to them as a breeding pair in an absolutely horrific ultimatum, so we can safely say it came back to bite them in the ass.

Queerness rating: don't attempt to enslave alien races, I guess. Sucks to suck man.

Episode 7: Mason's rats

If Horton hears a who included killer robots. A man learns that eradication is not worth the violence and pain. Solidarity is the easier option.

Queerness rating: AFAIK the only female character was the cat, but I love the Scottish milita rats. This one is also null.

Episode 8: in vaulted halls entombed

Least favorite. I am always hypercritical of any story where the setting and characters are 'random soldiers in some random desert.' This one also gets a significant ding for heteronormative nonsense because of the way the only female character interacts and reacts. She may get a pass for the final girl trope, but eh. Also, eldrich God, cthulu thing somewhat underperformed as scary thing. He's just big and grumpy.

Queerness rating: thhpppptt also just not great.

Episode 9: Jibaro

In this extremely pointed allegory of colonialism and its very gendered violence I feel it would be disingenuous to try and work a queer aspect into this particular storyline.

Queerness rating: pretty lady drives men lethally insane with her dancing and really there is no reason it wouldn't work on me too.

Overall

Its a mixed bag, but anthologies always are. If you need your queer storyline neatly packaged and encapsulated along with a disclaimer have fun with all 3.8 seconds of Disney's 67th 'first gay characters. For a collection of animated comedy horror shorts, it's way better than expected.

Just saw a review for the third season of love death and robots that was "too heterosexual don't bother" so now I'm wondering if we saw the same thing.

[nostroviapress]

2017 Chapbook Contest: Week 12 Review

It’s a huge day for Nostrova! Press, as presales have finally begun! We also have beautiful blurbs to share, too! 

Presales!

After a good chunk of the weekend + 4th of July, our website has been updated to include blurbs and and covers, and our online store is built out with pages for each chapbook + the bundle deal! We’re ready for today!

http://nostroviapress.bigcartel.com/ http://nostroviapress.bigcartel.com/ http://nostroviapress.bigcartel.com/

We’re starting with a limited edition print run of only 125 hand-numbered copies, so be sure to get yours! We’ll be shipping next month.

As always, our chapbooks are sold at a "pay-what-you-can + $5 shipping" rate, though we’ve included other payment options in case you’re tight on cash–we want everyone who wants a copy to be able to get one! <3

Blurbs

As of now, all blurbs have been received! I really like getting two for the back of every chapbook we release--besides the cover, I’m personally drawn to the back cover notes for all books I come across, seeing whether these mini-reviews invite me to read further. 

Here are the blurbs in full(!):

EVERYTIME I PARK MY CAR I FEEL LIKE I'M DOING SOMETHING WRONG BY JOSEPH PARKER OKAY

This chapbook has a story where an armadillo is the most revered animal in the world. I found that relatable because I revere armadillos very much. It also has a story that is very pro-snake, which I support. You will probably have fun reading this thing. And one of my favorite parts is the story titles, so if you're busy you can just read the titles and have fun that way, too.  –Steve Roggenbuck

This book is the response to the reality we are all trying to end. Imagine you didn't sleep for 8 days and then you told someone you love them. This is that moment.  –Audrey Honeydrone

LOATHE/LOVE/LATHE BY ALAIN GINSBERG

As a poet, Alain Ginsberg is resourceful with language and imagery, finding metaphor and anecdote where the reader had previously thought language had already dredged all it could out of that instance; as a vocally transgender poet, Alain Ginsberg is a poignantly necessary voice. There is often a lot of talk in literary communities about what makes a "trans poem" a "trans poem," and while the majority of Alain's poems mention they are trans somewhere within the text, there is never a sense of force or plea; rather, while Alain's gender is influential in all aspects of their work, it does not define their work. Alain's work is instead profoundly influenced by the daunting task of humanizing and unraveling trauma, from abusive relationships to harassment by customers at their food-service job, and throughout their narrative, Alain never lies to their audience or sugarcoats the circumstance. Instead, Alain presents their truth unflinchingly, letting the audience know they've got some heavy shit to talk about, but it's our choice if we want to listen. And goddamn, I am positive y'all will want to listen. –Linette Reeman, writer, performer, Aries

Loathe/Love/Lathe is a phenomenal book written by an even more magnificent poet. Alain Ginsberg brings to every poem a rawness that only they are capable of bringing. Exploring topics such as bodies, gender, safety, and the self (whatever the "self" is), Ginsberg provides not only understanding but an honest gentleness that is so necessary. No other book of poetry that I have had the privilege of reading does justice to the lived realities of young queer Americans in the same way Loathe/Love/Lathe does. Having read this book a few times over now, each time being left without words yet with an intense desire to hold every person I've ever loved, I truly recommend this work.  –Erin Taylor, writer, Interviews for Maudlin House, Sagittarius

OUR OWN SOFT BY KATIE CLARK

Katie Clark's collection is a fierce journey into gender and sexual identity. They say, "I wake up with your body my body" and "I was a boy until I wasn't a boy." These lines are absolutely what we need right now. The collection is self-conscious about its own body and explores what it means to fall deeply into the abyss of others' bodies when you are barely living in your own. 

–Joanna Valente, Marys of the Sea (The Operating System)

the poems of our own soft refuse to protect us from sharp edges as we unravel their secrets in the low light of unsleep. to move forward we rely on remembered litanies, associating to make ripples. imperfect perfect summer / orange at the edges / water / water / what clothes / which trees to bother climbing / what do you see when you try to see yourself / what do you see when looking back over your shoulder? is this nostalgia or something else invented to stand in its place? either way, it feels sun-warm: a snake coiled on a rock that may strike or may stay still as death. Clark writes, “it doesn’t always happen in the order that it happened,” then throws the past in the air like confetti / like releasing a hive of bees to hunt for what is sweet, stinging as they seek the honey out.  –Emily O'Neill, Pelican (YesYes Books)

A big thanks to these thoughtful folks for their love and support as we enter another year of releases <3 

Print Proofs

I’ve started sending along files to @bottlecappress​ and am excited to begin print proofs soon! In the next week or so I hope to have the rest of the files ready for this important stage :)

Stay tuned, as our 2017 video poem series begins soon!

Much love, and see you next week! <3 -Christopher

*

We’ll have a new Tavern post each Wednesday, giving an inside look at the N! process, so stay tuned for more updates!

Week 1 Review    (Opening the Floodgates) Week 2 Review    (Reading + Ordering Supplies) Week 3 Review    (Reading + MSS Observations)  Week 4 Review    (Reading + Starting Search for Finalists) Week 5 Review    (Picking Winners)  Week 6 Review    (Featured Finalists + Announcing Winners) Week 7 Review    (Cover Art + Additional Pieces) Week 8 Review    (Blurbs + Excerpts + Review Copies) Week 9 Review    (Timeline Check + Interior Design) Week 10 Review  (Front Covers Revealed!) Week 11 Review  (Action Items)

[thesinglesjukebox]

BTS FT. HALSEY - BOY WITH LUV

[6.00]

We're prepping the comment section for ARMYs as we speak...

Ashley Bardhan: This is kind of sick, like, the good kind. I resent Halsey because when I was 13 I got annoyed that her name is Ashley (my name), but she made it Halsey (different name). I really can't stand the flow of the rap sections in this song. Triplet, triplet flow. This song reminds me of mayo. Take from that what you will. [7]

Iris Xie: Tastes like Melona-flavored soft chews, chased down with mini matcha Kit-Kats. The "ooh-wahs," the clipped melodies, and the gentle and easy "oh my my" hook, combined with Halsey living out her K-pop girl group dreams with her exclamations ("I want it!") is a breezy, sugary, feel-good mixture. This results in something that sounds both like a throwback to older K-pop (Sweetune's guitar-heavy productions and the chewy, brusque-lite rapping style come to mind here), but it also sounds slightly newer, since the production decides to go for relaxed, airy grooves to balance out the hooks instead of 2011-style pop maximalism. The only thing missing that would elevate the song is a reworking of the rap flow so that it would sound less like an intrusive interruption that competes with the song's hooks, which hold it back from launching all the way into its 2019 vibe. The summer songs are blooming and ready for the picking, and "Boy With Luv" is prepared to launch for your next pool party. [6]

Alfred Soto: The lilt in the chorus is closer to Latin pop circa 2000, which shows BTS's stylistic fungibility. Meanwhile, an organ whistle adds a welcome note of discordance. [6]

Thomas Inskeep: They can do better, they've done better, I expect better, and they really don't need Halsey. [4]

Joshua Minsoo Kim: A poorly mixed and awkwardly shoehorned rap break. Extremely basic disco-lite instrumentation that K-pop has been doing for ages (and with far more gusto). A totally unnecessary Halsey feature that only exists to perpetuate BTS's continued reign in the West. It turns out the nondescript title is perfect: this is innocuous, confectionery pop that appeals to the masses because it doesn't have the guts to double down on anything particularly interesting. Even if you didn't like "Fake Love" and "Idol," you couldn't complain that they sounded so devoid of ambition. [3]

Katie Gill: It's a very ballsy move for Halsey to attach her name to a song where she might as well be a session singer and a music video where all the BTS boys blow her out of the water with their dancing skills, but a paycheck is a paycheck. At least she'll get a cut out of the proceedings when ARMY spams this play-by-numbers, middle-of-the-road song all over the internet, turning something just okay into something annoyingly inescapable. [6]

Katherine St Asaph: For the past several days, BTS stans have been tweeting furiously at me, and I assume other music writers, despite my having written literally nothing about their new material except a joke about the acronym "behind the scenes." There's currently a flare-up of Discourse about musicians vs. critics, but it doesn't account for the confusing but ongoing scenario of being yelled at about a review I didn't write. So it comes as an actual relief that this is a very enjoyable neo-disco song, and I can honestly tack a nice, reassuring big number on to this blurb. May whatever applicable god please accept this sacrifice to restore my mentions. [7]

Joshua Copperman: After the past week, I am afraid of BTS stans, so I'm very glad I like this. The guitar line reminds me a lot of early 2010s pop, but the rest of the production has the restraint inherent in this part of the decade. Genius tells me this is like a victory lap after their earlier song "Boy in Luv," and as someone who is a sucker for meta-references, I can get behind that. [7]

Jessica Doyle: On first listen this was a hard [0], Jimin's Cathy Dennis channeling notwithstanding. There's fanservice, and then there's publicly disavowing your previous save-the-world ambitions to better love ARMYs, which rings thoroughly hollow. There's fanservice, and then there's trying so hard -- grins, winks, pastels, trap interludes, even Jin cooing "Come be my teacher," for Christ's sake -- that it ends up calling attention to the very set of circumstances it may be designed to obscure, which is that BTS has become the best-known product of an industry steeped in corruption, exploitation, and rape. (To preempt the reply: no, the guys haven't been accused of anything, and no evidence has surfaced against them. But if they really are worth billions to the South Korean economy, then a lot of people have a lot of incentive to block even innocuous reports about them, let alone the potentially truly horrifying.) Having read more -- though I haven't gotten to RM's breakdown of the lyrics yet -- I don't think the most cynical reading is the best one. I think BTS is trying to convince themselves as much as their audience. "Boy With Luv," while still not my style, feels less now like a total misfire and more an effortful, deliberate commitment. (Meanwhile I choose to believe they're not all sadistic rapists using the group chat to make fun of the women they brutalized. But then, I would.) [5]

Alex Clifton: I saw BTS last October and ended up having a very expensive panic attack. It wasn't my first BTS show, but my friends and I bought pit tickets together and we were all determined to have an Extravagantly Good Time. Between purchase and show, though, I went through a bout of extreme depression. I cared about running, petting stray cats, and making it to the end of each day, in that order. Listening to music was particularly painful, as my brain punished me by taking away the one thing in life that has always kept me afloat. I forced myself to go because I'd spent so much money already, figuring going through the motions might help me feel better. In the pit, though, I left my body; I was surrounded by people who were incandescent with excitement while I couldn't conjure any joy. I saw doom lurking in every face around me, telling me you're not a real fan if you're not excited, you don't deserve to be here, how dare you even show up, you ought to be ashamed. I considered leaving the show but stayed (again, money) and spent the entire time numb, observing rather than participating. For me, the most devastating part was thinking I could never love music -- or anything -- again. BTS had seen me through a depressive spell in 2017, and suddenly one of the brightest things in my life was slipping out of my grasp. It was a scary, weird night. But I've been doing better since October. I'm on different meds. I stopped insulting myself constantly. Music no longer makes me want to crawl out of my skin. I was wary of listening to "Boy With Luv" as the first single After the show; some BTS songs can still trigger anxiety responses and teleport me back to a bad time. I prepared myself for disappointment. But for the first time in months, I woke up with excitement at 5 a.m. to watch the video as it premiered, actual butterflies in my stomach. And I fell in love with this song. I love the "oh my my my" hook. I love the disco-funk. I love how it makes my heart light up like summer. I love the fact that Halsey sings in Korean (!!!) so this isn't a Justin Bieber "burrito/Dorito" "Despacito" disaster. I love that this is a counter to "Boy In Luv" which is such a macho take on impressing girls when "Boy With Luv" shows that the strongest relationship happens when you love yourself. Most of all, I love the fact that I can hear a song and feel happy once more. It's the greatest gift I could ever receive. [9]

[Read, comment and vote on The Singles Jukebox]

[gokinjeespot]

off the rack #1230

Monday, October 1, 2018

 Surprise! I'm still kicking and writing. My announcement last week about off the rack possibly ending prompted Heather to tell me her plans for Comet Comics after the move to 1073 Bank Street which included asking if I wanted to continue to work for her. Do I like to go fishing? Of course I said yes. To all of you who sent me messages that you're going to miss off the rack, I say thee nay, I get to read on and ramble on.

 Catwoman #3 - Joelle Jones (writer) Joelle Jones (art pages 1-8, 14-22) Fernando Blanco (art pages 9-13) Laura Allred (colours pages 1-8, 14-22) John Kalisz (colours pages 9-13) Josh Reed (letters). My thanks to Amanda and Ryan for giving me permission to read their sub service copy, otherwise I would have missed this issue because it was sold out by the time I got back from vacation. Selina gets read the law of the land and you know how she feels about the letter of the law. This puts her in opposition to the family that runs her new home town but she's one tough cookie and is able to complete her personal mission. I want to see how this family reunion goes.

 Hey Kids! Comics #2 - Howard Chaykin (writer & art) Wil Quintana (colours) Ken Bruzenak (letters). See if you can recognise Stan the Man and Jack the King in this thinly veiled history of comic books.

 Old Man Hawkeye #9 - Ethan Sacks (writer) Marco Checchetto (art) Andres Mossa (colours) VC's Joe Caramagna (letters). Eye for an Eye part 9. Bullseye finally catches up to Clint as Hawkeye is about to kill another old Thunderbolts member. Wounds are inflicted on both sides and someone earns redemption. The story continues next issue in the Great White North. I'll be there eh.

 Silencer #9 - Dan Abnett (writer) Patch Zircher (art) Mike Spicer (colours) Tom Napolitano (letters). Hell-iday Road part 2. Talia Al Ghul's only loyal department head uses her magic to switch Silencer and Quietus's bodies. Brain triumphs over brawn and Honor lives to fight another day. Her family is her main weakness and I hope somewhere along the way they are eliminated so we'll see her really let loose.

 Heroes in Crisis #1 - Tom King (writer) Clay Mann (art) Tomeu Morey (colours) Clayton Cowles (letters). I don't keep up with much going on in the DCU so I don't know if this is another Crisis on Infinite Earths deal where they try to clean up the universe a little, but there sure are a lot of dead super powered people in this first issue. I picked this off the rack to read because the art is sweet and it's written by one of my favourite writers right now. We start off the 9-issue story with Harley Quinn fighting Booster Gold and I'm rooting for Harley to finally rid the DCU of the time travelling doofus. A place called Sanctuary is introduced that seems to be a place where super heroes can go to get psychoanalyzed. Maybe there's a connection with Harley but it's not made clear here. The big three, Batman, Superman and Wonder Woman gather in Sanctuary and the mystery of why these dead super heroes are lying around all over the place is off to a flying start. This goes on to my "must read" list.

 Marvel 2-In-One #10/LGY #110 - Chip Zdarsky (writer) Ramon K. Perez (art) Frederico Blee (colours) VC's Joe Caramagna (letters). It's not quite a full reunion of Marvel's First Family but were getting closer as Ben and Johnny get their powers back to beat this world's villainous Fantastic Four.

 Stranger Things #1 - Jody Houser (writer) Stefano Martino (pencils) Keith Champagne (inks) Lauren Affe (colours) Nate Piekos (letters). Dark Horse Comics capitalizes on the popular Netflix show with this 4-issue mini following the adventures of Will Byers and his friends. I've never watched the show so I'm new to these characters and situation. The art is pretty good and the plight of young Will in another dimension is scary but nothing grabbed me here. I'm sure Stranger Things fans would be tickled to have their own comic book to collect.

 Justice League Odyssey #1 - Joshua Williamson (writer) Stjepan Sejic (art) Deron Bennett (letters). As soon as I flipped open the cover and saw the art I wanted to read about this new team. Plus I love how Stjepan draws Kory/Starfire. I didn't know who the big grey guy was but boy was I surprised to find out he's Darkseid. The big bad villain sure has slimmed down a lot or else it's Darkseid junior. Joining Starfire and Darkseid are Azrael, Cyborg and Green Lantern Jessica Cruz. They will be fighting evil in the galaxy according to the cover blurb so aliens beware.

 Amazing Spider-Man #6/LGY #807 - Nick Spencer (writer) Humberto Ramos (pencils) Victor Olazaba (inks) Edgar Delgado (colours) Steve Lieber (art pages 8-10) Rachelle Rosenberg (colours pages 8-10) VC's Joe Caramagna (letters). A Trivial Pursuit part 1. I will pretend that Peter Parker and Spider-Man were never split in two during the last arc and catch you up with the present. Peter's new roommate is the super villain Boomerang. Talk about keeping your enemies close. This issue takes place in The Bar With No Name, a super villain hangout, and it's trivia night. The category is Spider-Man. Boomerang takes Peter to the bad guys bar and guess who wins? Meanwhile, Wilson Fisk, the Kingpin of Crime and current Mayor of New York City is not happy with his lackey Boomerang. Got all that? Looks like the old Parker luck will be rearing its ugly head again. I didn't like the jarring difference in art for the 3 pages where Spider-Man is spying on the Superior Foes of Spider-Man playing cards. It didn't feel like part of the story.

 Doomsday Clock #7 - Geoff Johns (writer) Gary Frank (art) Brad Anderson (colours) Rob Leigh (letters). The first page is super confusing as the narrator jumps back and forth in time but thankfully the second page carries on the story in a linear fashion and we finally see the appearance of Doctor Manhattan. There was a big deal made when Watchmen first hit the racks in 1986 about the full frontal nudity when Dave Gibbons drew the naked Doctor Manhattan and showed his penis. No problem penis this time because this issue was overshadowed by Batman: Damned where Lee Bermejo uncovered Bruce Wayne's penis in that book. Nudity is so controversial in North America whereas in Europe people don't get their knickers in a bunch over seeing so called private parts. I'm glad we've matured somewhat so that this comic book didn't stir up a big conservative backlash too.

 Domino Annual #1 - I've been enjoying the regular series and I recommend that you check out this $4.99 US anthology to see what fun Neena Thurman/Domino has. There are four short stories in this annual. All lettered by VC's Clayton Cowles.

 "Dead Drunk in Dry Gulch" by Gail Simone (writer), Victor Ibanez (art) and Jay David Ramos (colours) tells the story of how Domino and Diamondback meet Outlaw.

 "The Good Fight" by Fabian Nicieza (writer) Juan Gedeon (art) and Jesus Aburtov (colours) features Cable.

 "Rebound" by Dennis Hopeless (writer) Leonard Kirk (art) and Jesus Aburtov (colours) shows the gloomy Colossus wallowing after what happened between him and Kitty at their wedding.

 "Domino & The Rejex" by Leah Williams (writer) Natacha Bustos (art) and Jesus Aburtov (colours) looks in on a mutant support group that Neena and Nightcrawler put together.

 These are bookended by "Saturdays Are For The Body Count" by Leah Williams (writer) Michael Shelfer (art) and Jesus Aburtov (colours).

 Action Comics #1003 - Brian Michael Bendis (writer) Yanick Paquette (art) Nathan Fairbairn (colours) Josh Reed (letters). Invisible Mafia part 3. I missed Action Comics #1002 with Invisible Mafia part 2 while on vacation but I got the gist of what's going on no problem. Batman helps out when a Daily Planet reporter gets her hands on some Green Kryptonite. I would like to see a World's Finest comic book written by Brian Michael Bendis. We go to la la land with Lois Lane and Lex Luthor on the last page which made me wonder what's going on there?

 Extermination #3 - Ed Brisson (writer) Pepe Larraz (art) Marte Gracia (colours) VC's Joe Sabino (letters). I'm getting a sense of where this story about the time displaced young X-Men is going. I think young Cable/Nathan is rescuing them from Ahab but we don't know why. I really like young Jean hanging with Domino and her X-Factor team. I will read on to see if I'm right about what's going to happen.

[danafraedrich]

June Book Mini-Review Bonanza!

Wait, didn't we just do one of these? Sort of. I've been traveling a lot lately, so the blog hasn't been updated as much. For those of you who came out to see me in Cleveland, Nashville, or New York, thanks! I adore meeting you amazing peeps IRL! I hope to do a post on surviving BookCon soon. For now, though, let's get to the books!

Age of the Ashers by Diana Tyler (audio) Young Adult, Mythology and Folk Tales, Sci-Fi and Fantasy 3/5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️ Buy it on Amazon I reviewed Diana Tyler's Armor for Orchids about a year ago, and I really enjoyed the narration for that. The same person did the narration for Age of the Ashers, but for some reason it just did not work for me with this book. The quality was just as good, but I think maybe because this story is quite a bit more action-adventure-y, the narrator's soothing tone failed to get me excited. I think this is a book I would have enjoyed just plain reading better. As for the story, though, it was pretty good. I especially loved the world building. Diana pulled me into this alternate reality with ease, and the dystopian meets current day technology meets Greek mythology was really interesting. The cast of characters was an interesting choice too, as we meet Apollo and Hermes and Orpheus. This is a Christian fiction book very much in the same vein as The Chronicles of Narnia, and I always find it interesting the way authors who tackle this sort of story manage deities of other faiths and Jesus/God. I found myself curious about the Greek gods and want to know more about what the rest of them are up to. Artemis, anyone? Where's my girl Artemis at!?

Darkened Light by Sarina Langer (beta read, releasing August 20th) Sci-Fi and Fantasy This is a bit of a weird one because Darkened Light isn't available until August 20th, and given that I was a beta reader, it might change a bit. Lemme tell you guys, though, this story is awesome! I had so many feelings while reading. FEEEEEEEELS! And just look at that cover. 😍 I friggin LOVE it! Here's the blurb for the book: The death goddess Ithrean has led the dead to their rest and watched over them in Dunhă for centuries, but they are no longer at peace. Their souls turn the red grass black, and their corruption seeps into the world of the living. Naavah Ora is an elven mage who can enter Dunhă at will, and study its corruption like no one else can. Doran is a runaway thief who cares about nothing as much as the next treasure, even if it puts his own life in danger. 840 is the only male sacrifice in his village, longing for a chance to live. Ash is a troublemaker who is learning that he can’t burn his way through every obstacle. To halt the coming darkness, they need to work together. It’s too bad they are too different to get along.

The Language of Thorns by Leigh Bardugo Young Adult, Sci-Fi and Fantasy, Fairytales and Folklore 5/5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Buy it on Amazon I almost didn't want to like this book because the tiny hipster that lives inside me resents the hype around Leigh Bardugo. I'd never read any of her other books before this one, but everyone I know adores her work. Everyone! I now see what all the hype is about. Leigh Bardugo's work is phenomenal! It's subtle and expertly crafted and graceful and beautiful. I want so badly to write as well as she does. #WritingGoals. This book takes popular fairytales and turns them on their head. The Beauty and the Beast and The Little Mermaid retellings were my favorite, but they're all outstanding. I can't say enough good things about this book.

Vampires Drink Tomato Juice by KM Shea Young Adult, Sci-Fi and Fantasy, Paranormal 4/5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Buy it on Amazon I have been looking for good urban fantasy lately. I don't mean shifter or vampire romance. I want it all! A friend of mine has a great phrase for the kind of thing I've been looking for: everyday fairy problems, and VDTJ totally hit the spot. It looks at the usual paranormal/fantasy stereotypes and, like Yzma from The Emperor's New Groove, smashes them with a hammer! A vampire who gets sick at the sight or smell of blood, an emo centaur obsessed with technology, and hot goblins. I enjoyed this book so much that, despite how series'ed out I am, I bought the other two already. I did have a big issue with 1) the way the main character enforced stereotypes and categorized high school cliques - that shallow crap annoyed me in high school and iit annoys me now - and 2) the formatting of the book. Now that might have been the publisher's decision, but the formatting was all over the place. Italics, ALL CAPS, bold. It was kind of a mess. A mess wrapped in a fun story, but a mess nonetheless.

The Girl Who Once Thrived by Lacy Marie Young Adult, Sci-Fi and Fantasy 3/5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️ Buy it on Amazon I had the opportunity to meet Lacy at Imaginarium last year, and she is such a lovely person. The Girl Who Once Thrived is a story of loss and healing. I immediately liked how Lacy shows how awful loneliness is. Loneliness is a prison that isolates you and convinces you that no one understands, no one cares, and you have no one and nothing to lean on. She also uses a grammatical person/tense that I've only ever seen used in The Night Circus, which created a very cinematic feel, like I was watching a film more than reading a book (1st person of some sort. Sorry, I don't actually know what this particular grammatical tense is called, so if anyone does, please let me know in the comments below). And while the fantastical world of Hesed in the book sounds amazing and is described with some really gorgeous imagery, a lot of pieces of the story didn't work for me. Firstly, the Watchmen in this world are just that. Men, and only men. All the men in this world become Watchmen, not women, which drives me insane. Can we please stop perpetuating this idea that women are incapable of things on the basis of their gender? Yes, men are generally bigger and stronger than women, but not universally. I have seen and met women who could break most people in half, so please stop with these sexist tropes. There are also a few points where the main character, from whose perspective the story is told, somehow just knows what another character is thinking. Nope, not unless you're a mind reader. This is something that makes me crazy when I'm reading a 1st person perspective book. It's a really interesting perspective, but it's also very limited in what the narrator can actually know. It can seem or look like someone is thinking something, or the narrator can guess or assume it or whatever, but they can't know it. And finally... y'all, I'm about to get super-duper real here... there's a line I will never be able to get behind.

"Death was too much for a six-year-old to have to process, but with the addition of his mother's extreme sickness and treatment, you can understand his detachment from reality."

Here's the thing. I was barely seven years old when I was diagnosed with Acute Lymphocytic Leukemia. And I straight up asked my doctor, "Am I going to die?" He told me I had an 85% chance of survival. That math was easy even for seven-year-old me. I had a 15% chance of dying, and I processed it, the idea of my own death while undergoing chemotherapy. I feel like this line so undermines children's resilience. I saw it in all my friends who were also battling cancer. They don't process things the same way adults do, but they still process it. Not gonna lie. This line made me angry, but the book is very sincere about how important healing is, and I absolutely commend Lacy Marie for creating a story to spread hope to the world.

So those are all the books I read in June. I'm now currently reading Heartstone by Elle Katharine White and loving it so far. It's Pride and Prejudice meets dragons, though, so what's not to love? What were some of your favorite books from June and what are you currently reading? Let me know in the comments below.

Thanks for reading!