#reid's their biggest hype man :)

[ipswitched]

"There's a band you should follow."

[jaidens]

Ladies And Gentlemen, Will You Please Stand? With Every Guitar String Scar On My Hand Take This Magnetic Force Of A Man To Be My Lover

pairing [s] : spencer reid x reader

warning [s] : | marriage | why ain't he my husband yet?! | spencer is so lover | I just copied the basic rite of matrimony soo

a/n [s] : requests are open

Spencer is completely and half-heartedly nervous about the wedding day. His hands sweat and shake a week before, Derek ends up having to coach him on how to correctly act around you. He's worried about whether his knees lock on accident and he passes out on you, or if he sleeps in late on it and misses his own wedding. Spencer can't lie and say he hasn't read every single book on weddings, going back into the 1400s.

The best day of his life begins with his chosen groomsmen jumping on his bed and hyping him up early into the morning. Derek picks him up from his bed and basically throws him around. Spencer swears he's about to throw up every moment he gets ready. When he's in the shower, when he's getting his hair dried and professionally done, or whenever he's getting in his suit while his groomsmen are yelling and screaming about how stupid good he looks.

His mother and yours both sit down which alerts him to walk to the altar. Spencer's Mom is already on the verge of crying as he goes to the altar. It's covered with soft lace and flowers, everything you wanted. The entire venue is absolutely amazing and beautiful as he captures it in his mind. Eventually, his groomsmen walk down individually, as everyone stands. Derek walks down last a bit of a smile on his face and his hands together.

He pats Spencer on the shoulders, whispering in his ear to make sure to not lock his knees. He's absolutely worried, no matter how many things he knew about weddings. Your bridesmaids walk down the aisle next, clad in the beautiful colors you chose. Spencer thought about all of the mixing of colors and your eye for them was one of the things he loved. Derek is mumbling something behind him to Aaron, talking about how nice the venue had been. He smiled knowing that he had multiple people to help him in anything behind him.

Spencer is attempting to not let his nerves take over his head. He's twisting his neck to see things behind him, next to him, and the people that were invited and their plus ones. He takes the small handkerchief he was given to wipe the tears that start in the corner of his eye. All he's thinking about is you. The dress you might have chosen or the smile that you'll be wearing, and he swears it's everything he's lived for. He also thinks about this: what if he never chose to join the BAU? What if he went to a different part, ending up never meeting you?

Soon, he hears it, the Wedding March fills the sound of the outside. You wanted to have a string quartet, and so that's what he gave, and he was absolutely glad you chose it. The soft noises of violins, cello, and violas are playing in March. His back is turned to the preacher that stands there, asking him if he's ready. “I’m ready for her.”

As soon as he sees your father appear from the corner, he's covering his mouth and stifling his gentle sobs. Everything seems incredibly perfect. He's looking away in the hopes he won't start sobbing. Derek taps his shoulder and there you are, practically floating down the aisle with a soft veil covering your face. He has to cover his eyes and try not to lose himself when he sees you.

He's in love, in love with his best friend of fourteen years and his girlfriend and fiancee of seven. You have the biggest smile he's ever seen on your face as your father hugs you and walks away to his seat next to your mother and his. Everytime he looks up, he cries even more, You float further up to the altar and now you're right next to him, and holding your hands out.

“You look absolutely gorgeous.” Spencer whispers softly in your ear and you look up at him. “This is so amazing, and you look so handsome.” The moment is something he will remember for as long as he lives, seeing your eyes look into his and all he feels is love. Spencer never felt a love like yours, and the connection your souls had intertwined together. When you first started dating, he told you he had your names etched in hid heart and in the stars, and how nothing could possibly change his feelings.

The preacher begins the rite of matrimony. Spencer grabs your right hand and holds it in his hand. “I, Spencer, take you, to be my wife. I promise to be faithful to you, in good times and in bad, in sickness and in health, to love you and to honor you all the days of my life.” As soon as he finishes, he's covering his mouth and trying to pull himself together. You copy him, saying the same thing as him.

The ring holder hands you Spencer's ring and you slide it onto his ring finger. Spencer does the same and kisses your knuckles against his lips. He savours this moment and the intimacy he feels just by looking at you. He stares at the wedding ring and he realizes it's his mother's and he completely loses it. “Is that my Mom's ring?” He asks gently through soft sobs. You nod at him and you wrap your arms around his neck.

“Do you take Y/N to be your wedded wife, to live together in marriage? Do you promise to love her, comfort her, honor and keep her for better or worse, for richer or poorer, in sickness and health, and forsaking all others, be faithful only to her, for as long as you both shall live?” The officiant speaks, looking into Spencer's eyes. “I do.”

You do yours and you say a soft, “I do.” The priest announces to you husband and wife. Spencer is instructed to pull the veil behind your head and he looks at your face. Your eyes are glossy and rimmed with tears and your smile almost false apart as you try and hold yourself together for him (and partly the wedding photographer.)

As soon as he hears the word kiss, he drops his hand on your lower back, and kisses you. Spencer pulls your leg up so it sits against his hip, and one of his hands stays on your thigh. No matter how many times he's kissed you before, he still begins to get breathless and his cheeks will heat up embarrassingly. He hears your guests clapping before you pull away. In under a second, you rush back into his lips.

—

Spencer remembers the day like yesterday as he holds you in his arms. He's weaker and frail than he was 47 years ago, but the same gleam in your eye and strong smile that takes over his heart. You're watching the television and laughing softly at whatever’s playing, but all he does is stare at you and the wedding pictures that are around the walls. He stared at the grandchildren that are drawing in the kitchen, and it reminds him of everything he had years ago.

[cromearts]

so i watched interview with the vampire.

and you're gonna be like "laila, i thought you like to watch things after the hype has died down" well i thought so too but they put it on netflix and the brainworms got to me. i watched both seasons in a weekend. i'm gonna read the books next. usually i really don't like shows where the characters you follow are just "so complex!!!1!!!!1" and "hard to understand!!!1!!!!1" because a lot of the time this is just a cheap copout for people who want to fuck very surface level villains with very surface level writing (a lot of you have let fanon make you think some characters are deeper than they actually are but thats a story for another day) but i am SO happy to report that this is NOT the case for interview with the vampire. you have so many conflicting feelings for all of these characters (except claudia. i do in fact support her every decision. love that queen. my princess.) and it's just so good. this is the true drama people are looking for on tv. kind of wish it was on during the era of cable cuz you KNOW it would've been craycray. going into this, i really was expecting to completely dislike lestat but honestly i can't even say that. i love him and i hate him. the same way i love and hate louis and i love and hate armand. claudia and daniel are really the only characters that i love unconditionally. but there are so many scenes that just really pull on my heart strings. the finale where lestat says "armand called me, did you hurt yourself?" with those SAD ASS EYES. i don't know if people have already said this but whenever lestat is really sad sam reid puts on these puppy eyes that practically FORCE you to feel bad its insane. and louis.......... the man who is fumbled over and over again constantly. my favorite unreliable narrator. seeing how the "turning of claudia REALLY went down lowkey rewired some neurons. "please ill do anything ill be anything please please please." the guilt was literally eating him alive to the point of no return. that had me really gagged. jacob anderson lowkey best actor ever? like where are the awards we need them right now. and armand......... oh armand. biggest fumbler ive ever seen. its okay though cuz he's gonna fuck that old man. i know he is. but him lying over and over again to louis is actually so crazy. like bro is a pathological liar AND a gaslighter. you've been alive for over five hundred years and i can tell you havent gone to therapy not one time in your entire life. like for him to take the credit for lestat saving louis is what REALLY got me. like lowkey that's worse than the betrayal itself. like 70 years of mending back together our relationship after you killed my daughter and almost me only for me to find out MY EX SAVED ME? AND NOT YOU? like oh i would've really crashed out. and my dear claudia.... my favorite. it's so crazy like i will absolutely not allow any claudia slander because i can defend her from anything. like i genuinely do not think any "bad" thing claudia does is her fault because she literally did not ask for this. like you can argue that it made her life WORSE! instead of simply dying in that moment, she had to die later after suffering so much and THEN proceeding to experience happiness for one moment (insert the have you ever gotten everything you ever wanted? no. but i once got very close quote here). claudia did nothing but suffer, was treated seriously by NO ONE in her life, and the one time someone picks her, they both proceed to die immediately after. that genuinely upset me so much i wanted to turn the tv off. and the crazy thing is we ALL knew claudia was going to die because they talked about her in past tense THE ENTIRE INTERVIEW! LIKE I KNEW SHE WAS DEAD THE ENTIRE TIME! AND I STILL WANTED TO SMASH THE TV! it's actually insane. at least in her final moments madeleine chose her. which was done very beautifully in my opinion. "my coven is claudia." goosebumps man. because a lot of people probably would've chosen the other option but no not madeleine. she loved claudia more than she wanted to live. i love this show man.

[maoist-mizer]

Mid-Year Book Freakout 2023

tagged by my beloved, @hauntedmoors 🫀

1. Best book you’ve read so far this year?

Probably We Have Always Lived in the Castle by Shirley Jackson. I was already familiar with her since I remember reading The Lottery in high school, but this story really blew me away. I can’t wait to tuck into more of her writing, and just in general more gothic fiction, and just the weird and freakish overall.

2. Best sequel you’ve read so far this year?

I haven’t read many novel sequels this year, and none of them stuck out so I can’t really list anything. But I would say the second saga of Chainsaw Man, as a sequel, has been a highlight.

3. New release you haven’t read yet?

I’m such a loser, I literally got A Day of Fallen Night signed in person by beloved Samantha Shannon and I still haven’t read it yet 😭😭😭

4. Most anticipated release for the second half of the year?

I don’t really keep up to date with upcoming releases, I just find out Somehow like through tumblr or my Goodreads mutuals, but I do know that the next Heartstopper volume is out sometime this year, so I’m looking forward to that.

5. Biggest disappointment?

I have three for this: Before the Coffee Gets Cold by Toshikazu Kawaguchi, Pet Sematary by Stephen King, and Vengeful by V. E. Schwab.

BtCGC was immensely boring, especially the writing — I guess you could say it’s own hype killed it for me. I heard that it was initially a play, or something along the lines of that? If so, then I think I can confidently say that with how it was written, it did not suit the medium.

Pet Sematary also disappointed me for not living up to its expectations as there’s this short section before the story starts where King basically says it’s one of his darkest stories yet and blah blah it chilled him so he had to put it away for a while before publishing it, so, obviously, I was quite excited!

But, once I actually got stuck into it, it just didn’t really stick out to me as anything special, well, at least compared to coming off reading Shawshank Redemption and ‘Salem’s Lot. Plus, ableism is quite rooted into this one so at times it just was difficult to enjoy, personally.

As for Vengeful, I felt that it was an unnecessary sequel. It didn’t add to Vicious, if anything I’d say it detracted from the overall story by following around all these new characters when what made Vicious so fun was the dynamic between Victor and Eli.

6. Biggest surprise?

I’m Thinking of Ending Things by Iain Reid was quite unexpected. It wasn’t one of my favourites so far from this year, but, regardless, was a big surprise since it deviated far from my expectations.

7. Favourite new author (debut or new to you)?

Sayaka Murata. I loved Convenience Store Woman and Earthlings so I’m intrigued for any future projects of hers! It was interesting how fundamentally similar these two books, like two sides of the same coin, but told in two very different ways. Fantastic stuff.

8. Newest fictional crush/newest favourite character?

Merricat my beloved <3 (also Fami and Asa)

9. Book that made you cry?

I’ve never cried while reading soz

10. Book that made you happy?

Love & Autism by Kay Kerr. I just felt very seen reading this, being able to identify myself within the pages. It also felt special to me since for once it’s not a book about autism addressed to allistic people, it’s a book about autism, written by an autistic author, for an autistic audience.

Tagging: @swordfaery @ignorantsackofeyeballs @moodymika @sarenite (no pressure if you don’t want to do this, also if you just see this post and want to do it feel free to continue the chain)

[camreadsum]

I've been having quite a reading season so I thought I'd do the MID-YEAR Freak Out Tag to document it all since that was the point of this account before I abandoned it. 😬

Anyways Let's Go!! (I will not be going into detail about the books, just how/why they fit the question)

Best Book So Far: A Strange And Stubborn Endurance by Foz Meadows

If ever there was a book designed for me as the target audience, it's this one. This book is everything I want when I pick up a fantasy romance. This is proof that you do not need to abandon or half ass your world building because "the focus is the romance anyway"

Honourable mention :A Taste of Gold And Iron by Alexandra Rowland. Another M/M romantasy with lovable characters in a lush, well realized world of fantasy.

Good fucking Soup!!

Best Sequel: Winter of the Witch.

Third book in the Winter night Trilogy. Historical fantasy. Epic conclusion to an amazing series. Russian folklore, utterly unforgettable MC, old gods vs Christianity battle it out in the unforgiving world of medieval Russia. Full of myth and extreme stakes. Went straight up my top 5 fave series of all time.

Honourable mention: The Long Game by Rachel Reid (book 8). A hockey romance that was just pure fun. Both light and heart-felt. Chaos and Fun. Overall good time.

New Release I haven't Gotten To Yet: Yellowface by R.F Kuang

Most Anticipated Release for the 2nd Half Of The Year: He Who Drowned The World (coming August 24) Sequel to She Who Became The Sun by Shelley Parker Chan.

Biggest Dissapointment : Catherine House by Elisabeth Thomas. This was such an unpleasant experience. A one note character who was so removed from her reality and surroundings that I was unable to connect with her or the story. She had no reactions to any of the horrendous things happening to and around her. She didn't care, had no goals, motivations etc. She just WAS! (One would would argue that that was the point given the self medication and trauma, and perhaps they'd be right) I just couldn't help but feel like I wasted my time here. Thinking about this book still makes me angry.

Honourable mention: The Beautiful Ones by Sivia Moreno Garcia.

Several trusted sources hyped this book up as not only a really juicy historical romance but the best from Miss Garcia. And as someone who didn't get the hype behind Mexican Gothic, I was hoping this would be my chance to appreciate Silvia's work. IT WASN'T!! I'm starting to think Me n Silvia just aren't suited to each other. (I will still read Gods of Jade And Shadow since I already own the audiobook but I won't pick up anything new moving forward)

Biggest Surprise: Aristotle And Dante Discover The Secrets Of The Universe.

This is contemporary fiction featuring sad gays coming of age. I was so surprised by how much I enjoyed and was gut punched by this story. This duology did for me what SONG OF ACHILLES did for the girls.

Honourable Mention: Silver Under Nightfall by Rin Chupeco. I don't even have words for how this book swept me away. Another MC I would lay down my life for. Charming characters, dark world, monstrous creatures and sexy vampires. AGAIN a book designed with ME in mind.

Fave New Author: T Kingfisher.

Technically I discovered them last year with the Paladin Series but I've only gotten to expound on their catalog this year and boy do they keep GIVING!! Their writing style is equal parts Humour, whimsy, vivid and just hits all the beats. Her characterization is obe of my favorites for sure. An auto-read author for me moving forward.

Honourable mention :KJ Charles

An indie author who focuses on queer romantic and historical fantasy. She's yet to let me down

Newest Fictional Crush: I don't really crush on book characters but for the sake of this question Delilah Green from Delilah Green Doesn't Care(super tated Butch Lesbian with percings and mommy issues?! Come on now)

Honourable mention : Tadek from A Taste Of Gold And Iron. The complete Chaos that is this man. We would be best friends immediately!!

Newest Fave Character : Velasin Vin Aaro- Aeduria from A Strange And Stubborn Endurance. Fits the archetype of all my favorite male characters. Cute, shy, super smart and entirely a cinnamon role. Him, Cae and Markel are the PERFECT chaotic Trio. (Pls go read this book y'all I need someone to die over it with me)

Honourable mention : Ilya Rozanov from Long Game. Look, this man is a total bastard, a delinquent, an utter S.O.B but I stand by him. *Keke Palmer voice* I KNOW HIM Y'ALL!! I KNOW HIM!!

Book That made me Cry: Satisfaction Guaranteed by Karelia Stetz-Waters.

Listen, I may have been going through some things at the time but that last act L0ve Declaration GOT ME!! just cheesing and sobbing like "love is real y'all"

Book That Made Me Happy: Swordheart by T Kingfisher.

The utter WHOLESOMENESS that is this book!!!the FMC was so pure and guileless and genuine I wanted to hug her. The high jinks, the shenanigans and the wonder of it all. This story was utterly hilarious, sweet, emotional and fun. All the things I want in my romances. Solidified Kingfisher's Pen Game as unclockable.

(The audiobook narrator for Halla is one of the most talented in the game. Give her all the gigs!)

If you see this and are interested pls join in. I'd love to see what everyone's been reading.

[moreidsdaughter]

spencer reid fluff alphabet

summary: a fluff alphabet that took way to long....

genre: fluff

warnings: none

word count: 1637

a/n: wowowowow i'm not dropping something out of nowhere...

A = Attractive (What do they find attractive about the other?)

spencer loves the way you put dedication into the things you do, whether it’s writing, reading, your job, staring at the television, watching your favorite show while being curled up on the couch or taking care of things around the house.

what do you find attractive about spencer? many things obviously, but his mind definitely is at the top of the list. You adore his mind, you adore the way he can ramble for days at a time. if you need him to be quiet, you hug him or plant a soft kiss on his lips.

B = Baby (Do they want a family? Why/Why not?)

yes, for sure. you know that spencer would be a great dad, especially because of the way he is with kids. however, he wants to have one when he feels it’s safe. safe meaning not working at the bau. at the same time, he knows that he can’t protect his child from the world, so what’s stopping him?

C = Cuddle (How do they cuddle?)

spencer loves cuddling facing you with one of his arms securely wrapped around your waist. He pulls you as close to him as possible and lays your head on his shoulder. He nuzzles his head into your head and takes in the smell of your shampoo. then he places a light kiss on your head

D = Dates (What are dates with them like?)

spencer prefers to stay in and order takeout and watch movies, or read to you on the balcony. he tries to do these things with you once a week, but his job can get in the way. in spencers’ mind, as long as you’re doing something together, he’s happy.

when you and spencer do get out, you like to go on coffee dates or picnics. You two normally choose food and drinks. then you lay it all out on a blanket in a park. On coffee dates, you and spencer share your thoughts on different topics. spencer normally brings up books and you normally bring up current events and pop culture.

E = Everything (You are my ____ (e.g. my life, my world…))

“you’re my home.” spencer whispered, his hands grabbing yours. you took a second to process his words. “you are the reason i keep going. you're the only person i feel truly comfortable around without any judgment. when i’m with you, i’m at peace with myself and i’ve never felt that way in my life.” he took a gentle breath. “when i’m with you i feel at home and even though it doesn’t make sense, you've told me that it doesn’t have to. none of this has to make sense because i’m in love”

F = Feelings (When did they know they were in love?)

spencer knew that he was in love when you started repeating facts that he said to your friends. one time you had been at a birthday party and you said  “more people celebrate their birthdays in august than in any other month. about nine percent of all the people on earth have august birthdays.” you giggles after rambling. spencer looked at you with a smile, he couldn’t wait to hug you.

G = Gentle (Are they gentle? If so, how?)

spencer is the most gentle human being on the planet. he’s always patient and careful with you, he has one of the softest souls you’ve ever come across. he loves being gentle with you. he watches you when you’re sick, even though he despises germs. he loves to leave soft kisses all over you and he loves hugging you. your pet names for him match his actions towards you. you call him: bubba, sweet boy, my love, baby. he’s always looking out for you and he puts you first even though you tell him not to.

H = Hands (How do they like to hold hands?)

spencer isn’t the biggest fan of public affection, but he loves to hold your hand in private. When you and spence are alone, likes to do one of these two things, interlocking your fingers or he holds your hand and rubs circles into your palm.

I = Impression (What was their first impression?)

spencer met you in a coffee shop and you were reading one of his favorite books. he sat down at your table and asked you about your thoughts on the book. even though you weren’t done yet, he could tell that your thought process is similar to his. when he found out that your thoughts aligned and how the way that you process is similar to his, he knew that you were someone worth getting close to.

J = Jealousy (Do they get jealous?)

sometimes, it’s never because of you, but his own insecurities. spencer trusts you a lot and he knows that you'll never hurt him, but it doesn’t stop his mind from wandering. when people are affectionate with you in public it makes him jealous. he furrows his brows and his hands clench because his mind is thinking would she like me better if i was more affectionate in front of other people?

K = Kiss (How do they kiss? Who initiated the first kiss?)

spencer’s kisses are soft and affectionate, which makes him a good kisser in your eyes. he never rushes and he’s always gentle. it doesn’t matter if it’s a peck or a makeout session, most of the time he will take it slow.

you initiated the first kiss technically. you asked “can i kiss you?” and he responded with “yes.” you brought a hand to his cheek and slowly moved your lips in closer. when your lips connected it was magical, you smiled into the kiss and he did as well. then you giggled and pulled your lips from his.

L = Love (Who says ‘I love you’ first?)

spencer. you’re walking into your apartment with him after a date at a museum and you place your bag and coat down. spencer does the same and sits himself down on the couch. once you sit down, you turn on the television and spencer wraps his arm around your shoulder. you're slowly drifting to sleep and your head is falling onto spencer’s shoulder. when spencer thinks you're asleep he whispers “i love you so much, you’re my home and you make me feel safe in a corrupt world of madness.” what he didn’t know was that you were still awake, so you returned his words “i love you too bubba.”

M = Memory (What’s their favourite memory together?)

it was your first christmas together as a couple and you wanted to decorate a tree together. You dragged him to buy christmas decorations and a tree. the tree wasn’t big, but it was your tree. you guys decorated the tree with different color bulbs and other cool decorations. spencer was begging to put the star on top of the tree, so you let him. you baked cookies and made hot chocolate. Then you guys sat on the couch watching christmas movies and you fell asleep on each other.

N = Nickel (Do they spoil? Do they buy the person they love everything?)

spencer isn’t a very materialistic guy, he prefers intimate moments over items. however, when he does get you a gift he makes sure that it’s something meaningful.

O = Orange (What colour reminds them of their other half?)

soft colors, like pale yellows and neutrals. these colors are what make spencer feel at home and he sees you as his home. one of yellow’s meanings is clarity, that’s how spencer sees you, you help him see things.

P = Pet names (What pet names do they use?)

spencer doesn’t have a lot of pet names for you, but the ones he has are special to him. Spencer likes the classic pet names; sweetheart, honey and baby. occasionally he’ll swap those out for your nickname.

Q = Quaint (What is their favourite non-modern thing?)

spencer isn’t quite up to date with technology, so he likes almost everything that’s older. specifically he likes reading books and writing things in typewriters or by hand. he just thinks that there's something about it that makes him feel warm on the inside.

R = Rainy Day (What do they like to do on a rainy day?)

spencer loves curling up to you on the couch and reading to you on rainy days. he likes drinking a warm beverage like tea or hot chocolate. eventually, you’ll try to convince him to watch a show and then you guys fall asleep.

S = Sad (How do they cheer themselves/others up?)

spencer is pretty good at cheering you up, he always tries to make funny jokes or watch a funny movie with you. if he can’t make you feel better, he’ll just be there. he’ll ask you questions about why you're upset and try to find the root of the problem. however, he will never be pushy about these things, he just wants to be there and make you comfortable.

making spencer feel better is a hard task. normally he just shuts down when he gets like this, he’ll mope around the house and stay quiet. he thinks that he can get over the issue himself, but he can’t. It takes awhile for him to open up, but once he does, it never stops. at the end of the day, he just wants a hug and some cuddles.

T = Talking (What do they like to talk about?)

spencer loves to talk about literature and facts. he never has nothing to talk about because he can go on and on for days about anything, but literature is definitely his favorite.

U = Unencumbered (What helps them relax?)

you. you help spencer relax. whenever he’s in a room with you, his bundle of nerves just melt away.

V = Vaunt (What do they like to show off? What are they proud of?)

his knowledge. he’s not afraid to dish out facts around others, unless he’s told to stop. sometimes he can’t help it, but he’s still so proud of his mind.

being with spencer is great, but it’s easy to feel small compared to him. Spencer tries to make sure that never happens, he’s your hype man. he hypes you up for anything like fixing something or decorating a room.

W = Wedding (When, how, where do they propose?)

it was at a team dinner. it wasn’t in front of the team though, he pulled you out to rossi’s backyard and got down on one knee. when you went back inside, you didn’t say anything because you wanted to see how long it would take the team to notice. let's just say, the team found out within minutes because spencer couldn’t keep a smile off of his face.

X = Xylophone (What’s their song?)

spencer doesn’t really listen to modern music, he listens to mostly classical music. however one time, he’s listening to music with the team and garcia puts one fool for you by zayn malik. it makes him think of you almost instantly. the ballad with hints of piano making him think of your softness and his love for you.

Y = Yes (Do they ever think of getting married/proposing?)

yes.  all the time after a year of dating, but very early on he had a small sense that you were going to marry him. it didn’t become real until you met his mom, diana reid loved you from the moment she laid eyes on you.

Z = Zebra (If they wanted a pet, what would they get?)

A cat. it’s low maintenance with your work schedules and it can roam around on its own.

taglist (send an ask if you would like to be added):

@ssaemxlyprentxss@itsmyblogandillreblogifiwantto @pinkdiamond1016

[homoose]

moose’s year in review

(this took me FOREVER i’m so sorry also it got so long so it’s under a cut)

@softyreid​ @idmakeitbehave​ @summerygubler​ @goldentournesol​ @reidscanehand​ @feverdreamreid​ @specialagentsergio​ @zhuzhubii​ @writing-in-april​ @moon-light-jukebox​ @90spumkin​ @gubetube​ tagged me as one of their favorite creators (OMG THIS IS INSANE I LOVE YOU ALL!!!)

first creation + most recent creation of 2020

first creation: Winning is a Habit!

most recent creation: Only the Best for Jeremy (sfw) and You Know Better (nsfw)

one of your favorite creations from 2020

Lighthouse, that’s it, end of story. that story is like all of the things i ever wanted for Spencer Reid all rolled into one fic. it was a BEAST to write but it is one of my favorite things i’ve written ever and objectively I also think it’s just a good piece of writing.

a creation you’re really proud of

Hype Man (mostly sfw), hands down. MANY people have told me that this fic helped them through a bad body image day/made them feel really good about themselves, and man if that isn’t the BEST feeling as a writer!!!!!

a new style you tried this year & a fic that uses it

ok Tie It Back (nsfw) is a very simple, beautiful, flowery, nondescript style of writing that I’d never written in before and i love it!!!!!!

a creation that took you forever

okay, so none of the individual stories took that long to write, but a very moosey ficmas was such an undertaking and collectively took me like two weeks to write

your creation from 2020 that received the most notes

Mission Accomplished (nsfw) has 751 notes!!!!!!!! jfc wow y’all some hornee benches

Weird is Good (sfw) has 730 notes and started off arguably the biggest writing project I’ve ever done and wow i’m just real grateful

a creation you think deserved more notes

To Rip or Not to Rip only has 69 (lol) notes and I know it’s because Tara doesn’t have a super wide fic audience but it’s the first fic i wrote for ficmas and i LOVE it because it is so domestic and i think I wrote Tara pretty well and also she’s a queen and I love her

a new fandom you joined & a creation you made for it

criminal minds is the only fandom i’m in!!!!!! all my creations are cm fics :)

a creation you made that breaks your heart

the latest chapter of TMSIDK really broke me tbh

a ‘simple’ creation that you really love

Santa’s Working On It is only 582 words but it is filled with so much love and I think that last paragraph is really something

a creation that was inspired by another one

Through the Smoke was inspired by the episodes it’s set in, but I don’t think i’ve written anything inspired by another fic yet

a favorite creation created by someone else

ugh SO MANY just go to my rec tag but if I had to pick my favorites:

the whole damn masterlist by @spacedikut​ because i’m not kidding i go back and read all of them like.... all the time (start with spooky scary skeletons maybe bc it’s one of my faves)

Serendipity by @idmakeitbehave​ because it is just so so so good. so soft and so magical wow yes.

The Statistical Probability of Falling in Love by @reidscanehand​ because it’s just so well-written, such an excellent characterization of spencer, and just give me all the fics of spencer being loved and appreciated just for bein himself

Be Careful What You Wish For by @goldentournesol​ because wow yes love the concept of reliving what you thought you wanted in a dream sequence and then realizing you don’t actually want that bc you love your life!!!!!

Illustrated Man by @definitelynotkatesblog​ because I seriously cried reading this it is absolutely one of the best things I’ve read on this site

Serendipity by @halloweenhoneylover​ because it is straight up one of the best characterizations of spencer I’ve ever read

Love My Way by @ssahoodrathotchner because soft hotch rights

some of your favorite content creators from the year

god SO MANY and I know I’m going to forget someone but other than the seven people i just mentioned: @joodeduarte (GORG gifs) @zhuzhubii @criminalmindzjunkie @andiebeaword @brywrites @90spumkin @specialagentsergio @sleepyreid @softyreid @moon-light-jukebox @writing-in-april @gubetube @squiggledrop @feverdreamreid @summerygubler @spencersblog

& for good measure, a couple more creations of yours that you love

Atlas (my first Spencer fic that still holds a place in my heart); Breaking the Seal (it’s just so domestic i love); Enter with Abandon (not! abandoned just trying to finish TMSIDK first); We Don’t Have to Pretend (EMILY!); Merry Christmas, Baby Girl (bc MORCIA); Enjoy It While It Lasts (bc GARVEZ); All I Want for Christmas (bc Aaron Hotchner is my soft boi)

tagging: i’m pretty sure most of y’all have already been tagged, but anyone mentioned that hasn’t done it yet!!!!!!!!!

[shadyladyperfection]

The New Year Fic Writers & Readers Ask Game 2020

 I was tagged by @homoose and @specialagentsergio for this, thank you so much ❤️

FULL DISCLOSURE: I got carried away with the fics that lifted my spirits this year and basically turned this into a fic rec list. And it is a long long list, so just brace yourselves, I guess? I put it in the end so you won’t have to read it 

What was your biggest writing/reading achievement this year?

Okay, I have always been a silent reader. For some weird reason, I couldn’t bring myself to interact with a fic or the writer. So, I guess my biggest achievement would be letting the writer know how much I enjoyed reading their work. It counts, okay?

What did you learn about yourself as a writer/reader this year?

It is so SO important to leave comments or reblogs on fics or any medium of art that you enjoy. I’ve been a silent reader for years, okay? And while likes help, letting someone know that their writing made your day or completely gutted you will make them appreciate you like no other, and I say this from experience. Creators are simple people and deserve all the love you can give them. Even a keyboard smash helps, btw. 

Did you dive into something familiar or try something new this year?

I started reading Criminal Minds fanfics this year, does that count as something new? I don’t know. 

What are you grateful for?

Personally? I’m just glad my family and I got through the pandemic so far while staying healthy.

Reading wise, I am forever grateful fanfiction exists because it’s the only piece of literary work I have been able to read consistently.

Have your style (writer) or tastes (reader) changed this year?

I was not an avid fluff reader. It sounds weird and I always say I hate angst but I tended to gravitate more towards stories that left me aching rather than reading fluff, so I think that has changed.

What’s the first thing you want to read or write this year?

My textbooks would be nice 😂 But uh, I’d like to work on this story idea that I have had for month now.

Anything you want to try in 2021?

Like I said, writing my own fic would be nice but I know me so I’m good as it is 😂

Do you have any fic resolutions?

Not really, nope 

Share a comment (if a writer) or story (if a reader) that lifted your spirits this year?

Ooh mama, I have so many fics and I am going to list them all. Yes I am. This is in no particular order because I am messy like that and I am not even going to try and keep the list short. Bear with me, or not. It’s up to you. Also, I only added fluffy masterpieces here otherwise I’d have over 600 fics here and I am lazy xoxo

 Starting with @justfangstvdto  ‘s  Waking up to Klaus painting you imagine. This is an all time favourite. Open Coffin is also, one of her best works!!

@moon-light-jukebox ‘s Angel is very close to my heart and I also enjoy Morning Coffee because who doesn’t love a coffee shop AU?

@imagining-in-the-margins has so many fics to choose from. It’s like a reader’s nirvana  Anticipation  Impromptu  Pumpkin   Fairytales Sunflowers   Sweet Cherries   Breakfast Run  

@erin-bo-berin writes the cutest Dad!Spencer fics (great smut too but we’re not talking about that here) I’d start with Cabin Fever and Cupid 

@definitelynotkatesblog ‘s 6 AM and Something to Cry About have a special place in my heart

@veraiconcos ‘ Kiss it Better  was the first Criminal Minds fic I ever read so it’s special in its own way 

@gubler-me-up  is very difficult to choose from but Fact Check would be my pick 

@mggpleasedontlookhere ‘s Helping  Heart and Insignificant Being are absolutely delightful!

I read @criminalmindzjunkie ‘s Unlucky in Love weekly for clear skin 

Promise Me by @gayouijaboard is a gem, I swear.

@zhuzhubii has an extensive list of amazing writings but I had to pick so here you go- Sleepyhead About Ethan (a little angsty but worth it)  I think i love you and hugging you

A Lick of Paint ,  Moi Je Joue and I Would Do Anything You Asked Me Too   by @differentkettleoffishalltogether are technically smuts but I feel nice after reading them and that’s what is important 

@brywrites ‘ Focus  Flight Risk   Happy Tears    Troublesome    and frankly, everything they’ve written is wonderful!!

@specialagentsergio ‘s Sweater Weather   Baby Kiss it Better  and Last Christmas  are all amazing 

@spacedikut ‘s entire masterlist is a delight and it is hard to choose, okay? But I did anyway    how to ask a girl out   you look good   nurse reid   words that wound   the disaster dream date  (Hotch says, “They’re our idiots.” What more reason do you want for reading this fic?)   everything happens for a reason   the very insecure dr reid 

Also @matthewsbitches is rewriting Criminal Minds with the reader as Gideon’s daughter, you should read that as well!!

@reidscanehand  is another writer whose every work is just an incredible read. I am pretty sure I have their entire masterlist linked here: Line of Fire  Twenty Percent   Cooling Our Heels  In the Shadow of Harmony   That Tiny Instant of Eternity  The Statistical Probability of Falling in Love   Rather Ardently

Atlas  Happy Birthday Genius  Hype Man   Lighthouse  and A Very Moosey Ficmas  by @homoose  fill me with so much joy, every time. I also love TMSIDK 

@dreamwritesimagines ‘ Twisted is a brilliant story with amazing twists and turns but does not hold back on the angst. Like, at all. D likes to make people cry. But she’s also one of the sweetest people on here <3

Tagging: @ineverhaveanynormalfans @girls-andcats @moon-child-writer @spencerscoven and everyone mentioned above

[sasarahsunshine]

Do you think Piper and Kassidy would be good friends? Like pre-Spencer romances? I think they’d both get such a kick out of teasing Derek together

Omg yes! I think that they would be amazing friends!

Girls night with Penelope, JJ, and Emily? Disaterious. The five of them together would be the biggest headache for Hotch. ESPECIALLY if Penelope got Kassidy to drink. She’s the drunk girl in the bathroom who compliments every other girl, kind of drunk. She probably cries a lot too, but happy tears. “You guys are my best friends- I love you so much-“ starts sobbing on Piper’s shoulder, who’s probably just holding her and glaring at Penny for allowing this to happen.

And on cases? Kassidy’s best at interrogation, but she feels rather inadequate when it comes to building a proper profile. She’d follow Piper’s lead with anything and everything. Cause Piper’s a literal genius, duh. She’d also be Piper’s hype-man when she needs a little confidence boost. Some creepy local cops hitting on them? Kassidy’s like “don’t even think about it boys, she’s way too good for you.” The two work well together, bouncing ideas and theories off each other until something sticks. And in the field? Inseparable only because Kassidy is clingy af and doesn’t want anyone to get hurt :c

Oh yeah and teasing Morgan is their favorite pastime. Emily helps supply ammunition against him and he acts like he hates it, but we all know he doesn’t mind the banter and attention from a couple of pretty girls. They leave little sticky notes all over his stuff with inside jokes and taunting jabs at his expense. He can’t say anything about it because he isn’t sure which one started it. And teasing Reid? Even worse. Poor boy goes bright red when either of them dare look at him too long.

Hotch and Rossi are both shaking their heads watching the girls sit on the floor as they lean on each other and go over their case files (it was easier than constantly leaning over the desk to read the other ones report, okay?). They hardly notice how unprofessional it is to be on the floor- because who cares? Reid does but they ignore him.

[myownlittlebookcorner]

Mid-Year Book Freakout Tag 2020

Thank you @thekindworthreading!! Finally getting around to doing this :D This might be slightly lacking because i’ve only read 12 books this year, but here we go 😬

Best book you’ve read so far in 2020: The Unhoneymooners by Christina Lauren. It was my first successful dive into the romance genre, and I loved every second of it. I see a re-read in my future :D

Best sequel you’ve read so far in 2020: I haven’t read any sequels this year!

New release you haven’t read yet, but want to: Lucky Caller by Emma Mills. Her other books have made my heart very happy, so she’s an automatic buy from me!

Most anticipated release for the second half of the year: I’m really bad at keeping up with new releases, but i’m sure there are plenty that i’m not remembering!

Biggest Disappointment: Be Frank With Me by Julia Claiborne Johnson. It had been on my TBR for so long, and the end result was not what I what expected from the premise. It lacked in a lot of areas for me.

Biggest Surprise: Daisy Jones & The Six by Taylor Jenkins Reid! I had seen this book all over booklr for such a long time, and I finally gave it a shot. I was worried it had been over-hyped or that the interview format would throw me off, but I was surprised and beyond happy with this book. 

Favourite new author (debut or to you): Taylor Jenkins Reid! I’ve now read two of her books and I’ll be interested to see what else she comes up with!

Newest Fictional crush/ Newest favourite character: The first person that came to mind was Evelyn Hugo! She is unapologetically ruthless and always clear about her intentions, whether good or bad. I absolutely admire her for that.

Book that made you cry: Verona Comics by Jennifer Dugan got me a little misty eyed by the end. It was a lovely read.

A book that made you happy: The Hating Game by Sally Thorne! Enemies to lovers?? SIGN ME UP.

Favourite book to film adaptation you saw this year: You by Caroline Kepnes. Technically, not a film, I know, and I watched the first season a long time ago, but I finally read the book and it frustrated me in the best way just like the show 😅

Most beautiful book you’ve bought this year so far (or received): I am loving all the cartoon-y covers of the romance novel I’ve gotten. The Worst Best Man, Get A Life, Chloe Brown, and Well Met to name a few!

What books do you need to read by the end of the year? SO MANY!!! I’m going to try and get through the last book haul I got before I buy the books I already have in my cart 😅 I also want to start the Percy Jackson series!!

Tagging: Anyone who wants to give an update on their reading habits this year! 

[books-on-a-wire]

Mid-Year Book Freakout Tag

1. Best Book of the Year So Far

Umm, no fair, I’m currently at 130+ books. Here are my current favorites from my most read genres. 

Romance: Red, White, and Royal Blue by Casey McQuiston

Historical: Daisy Jones & the Six by Taylor Jenkins Reid

Thriller: Verity by Colleen Hoover

SF/F: Into the Drowning Deep by Mira Grant

Literary Fiction: A Man Called Ove by Fredrik Backman

YA Fantasy: Three Dark Crowns series by Kendare Blake

YA Contemporary: Dress Codes for Small Towns by Courtney Stevens

2. Best Sequel of the Year So Far

Crooked Kingdom by Leigh Bardugo gave me everything I wanted. I need to read King of Scars and then I’ll be all caught up. 

3. A New Release You Haven’t Read Yet But Want To

My newest purchases include Top Secret by Elle Kennedy/Sarina Bowen and Fix Her Up by Tess Bailey. Currently in my cart, Birthday by Meredith Russo. 

4. Most Anticipated Release for Rest of Year

Based off my preorders, Wilder Girls by Rory Power, Capturing the Devil by Kerri Maniscalco, and The Beautiful by Renee Ahdieh because vampires. I’m ready for vampires to make a comeback. 

And of course, The Queen of Nothing by Holly Black and The Toll by Neal Shusterman. Stiefvater and Bardugo coming behind them.

5. Biggest Disappointment

For July, I’ve lined up audio books for The Secret History and The Book Thief. If I can’t push through them with audio, then I’m done. I just wasn’t able to get into them the first time around. Other reads include King of Scars, A Conjuring of Light, and Lady’s Guide to Petticoats and Piracy - all of which I started and put aside. 

6. Biggest Surprise

Our Kind of Cruelty by Araminta Hall seems to be the book that everyone hated but I really loved. Still thinking about that one... I was also shocked by how much I loved Verity by Colleen Hoover. I have a whole love/hate relationship there lol. 

7. New Favorite Author

Helen Hoang...I didn’t really get all the hype about The Kiss Quotient, but I really loved The Bride Test. I’m also going to be watching Casey McQuiston, Kennedy Ryan, 

8. Your Newest Favorite Character

Daisy Jones is this year’s Evelyn Hugo. She was wonderfully flawed, but she owned her flaws. I’ve read it twice this year - once in audio and then went back and reread my physical copy. I rarely reread! 

9. Your Newest Fictional Crush

I don’t really crush on fictional characters, but Gemma Chan in Crazy Rich Asians was amazing. She is so beautiful, so we’ll say Astrid Leong. 

10. Book that Made You Cry

A Man Called Ove by Fredrik Backman...bawled buckets on that one. 

11. Book That Made You Happy

Red, White, and Royal Blue by Casey McQuiston...I know everyone has been screaming about this but I just read it last week so it’s my turn to scream. It was so heartwarming and they were both completely charming. I loved it!

12. Most Beautiful Book of the Year So Far

Are we talking cover-wise? I choose Wilder Girls by Rory Power. I haven’t read it yet (comes out July 9th) but as soon as I saw the cover, I was in love. And then I read the blurb and it sounds really creepy. I kind of want to read it immediately but also want to save for October. 

13. Some Books You Need to Read Before 2019 Ends

Still so many, King of Scars, a full length novel from Alice Oseman, something from Mariana Zapata, The Rose from Tiffany Reisz, etc. I’m doing good on my goals. As of 6/26, 131 books read with 53 of those being New to Me authors.  

14. Favorite Book to Movie Adaptation

Crazy Rich Asians is my most recent watched and I thought they captured the books really well. Plus, all of the cinematography, locations, and fashion - it was just visually stunning. Also, see #9 lol

[rhywhitefang]

It’s the end of the year (Well, not quite, but I’m not gonna get any reading done tomorrow)  - and we all know what that means... Looking back at what you read and evaluating your favorites. And no, I did not contain myself to just 10 - but that’s also because I did read a lot this year. Why are they eleven books for the first two categories? Any excuse to include one more book It looks better on the graphic. Although, before someone asks why the Broken Earth Trilogy isn’t on here - Rereads don’t count and I read those in 2017. For a more detailed look at each of my lists, links to the books, and more of my thoughts, look under the cut. For a list of all of my favorite books look here. 

Now, on to these...

The best new releases of the year

Now, obviously, I did not read every single book that was released this year - duh. This is just a list of the best 2018 releases that I read this year. Ranked, they look like this:

Girl Made of Stars by Ashley Herring Blake. Why I loved this one: It’s a really honest, well-written, gentle, well-done, nuanced, and detailed examination of what rape does not only to a person but also to a community from a perspective I’ve never seen considered before. 

Darius The Great Is Not Okay by Adib Khorram Why I loved this one: Because I love well-done coming of age narratives and this one was excellent. It’s a very quiet, introspective, slow moving book with a softer main male character. I also really appreciated the setting of Teheran. 

The Book of Essie by Meghan Maclean Weir Why I loved this one: Look, it’s one of my very specific favorite tropes of all time (I’m not going to spoil it) that I almost never see, the main character is interesting and strong in a mental way I really enjoy, and it’s a deconstruction of conservative family culture. Yay. 

The Adventure Zone - Here there be Gerblins by Griffin McElroy Why I loved this one: I jumped on the hype train and listened to the podcast - and like, this is a comic adaptation of the first arc? Which is so much fun?

The Air You Breathe by Frances de Pontes Peebles Why I loved this one: I loved the main character who was bitter, and passionate, and jealous and lovin, and complicated and determined and stern and regretful. It was great. If you loved Evelyn Hugo, this one should be your next read. 

The Cabin at the End of the World by Paul Tremblay Why I loved this one: This thriller was very unique in the way that it put its focus on just one family, and the whole rest of the world was not really present. Instead we get a very closed, and isolated narrative where everything but the characters we follow and the relationships they have with each other is called into question.

How Long Til’ Black Future Month? by N. K. Jemisin Why I loved this one: I refuse to comment on claims that I light a candle of my very own N. K. Jemisin shrine every night before I fall asleep. If you haven’t read The Fifth Season - go read them right now. My favorites from this collection include: Valedictorian, The Storyteller’s Replacement, Walking Awake, and Henosis.

Circe by Madeline Miller Why I loved this one: I’m a huge slut for greek myth retellings, if you’re a semi-competent author retelling any greek myth, I’ll eat it up. And Miller is more than just semi-competent.

The Poppy War by R.F Kuang Why I loved this one: Listen, listen, listen - you know how to get me as a reader? Training sequences and school settings. This has 250 pages of training sequences in a school setting. It made me very happy. 

Hurricane Child by Kheryn Callender Why I loved this one: Everyone’s excited for this author’s other book, which is like, a YA romance and to be fair, I haven’t read that one yet, but still - why is this one so underrated? It’s a magical realism coming of age story of a young girl and it’s stellar. 

Inkmistress by Audrey Coulhourst Why I loved this one: I wasn’t the biggest fan of the author’s debut, but this has a lot of things I love - “be careful what you wish for” style blood magic, dark self-fulfilling prophecies, and a female characters journey from hero to villain. Also dragons. 

The best backlist books of the year

Meaning, the best books I read this year that were released in 2017 or before that. Pretty simple, really.

In Other Lands by Sarah Rees Brennan Why I loved this one: It has been a long time since I was this attached to a group of book characters that quickly. They’re instantly relatable, even if they’re not instantly likeable. And beyond that, the whole book is a wonderfully satirical take on the portal fantasy genre. But seriously, guys, there’s not enough of fanfiction for this book - I’d know it, I read them all.. C’mon, where’s my soulmate AU?

Radio Silence by Alice Oseman Why I loved this one: One of the best YA novels out there and not only one of my favorite’s of this year, but also one of my favorite books of all time. Alice Oseman understands the teen coming of age story on a spiritual level, and manages to be so wonderfully affirming in this one.

The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo by Taylor Jenkins Reid Why I loved this one: Listen to the hype, everyone, listen to the hype. Evelyn Hugo is an amazing character and I’d 100% believe you if you told me she was a real person. PLUS, this one also has the trope. The one I talked about with the Book of Essie. 

Strong Female Protagonist by Molly Ostertag Why I loved this one: Well-done, deconstructionalist superhero narrative are my jam. This webcomic is not that action driven, instead it focuses on the main character identity crisis, and her reconsidering what it means to be a hero and what her responsibility as a human is.

The Miseducation of Cameron Post by Emily M Danforth Why I loved this one: Do you think the owner of this blog might like coming of age narratives? I’m not super sure, like, maybe if she had “I love coming of age narratives” tattooed on her forehead, it would be a little clearer... but like this? It’s a mystery. 

Whichwood by Tahereh Mafi Why I loved this one: No, I did not read the first book in this series, and I don’t think you need to in order to enjoy this. Here, I just really appreciated the friendship aspect of the book and the healing power of reaching out to others and letting them into your heart. Also death magic. That too.

Long Way Down by Jason Reynolds Why I loved this one: I think the slam poetry style this was written in, often novels written in verse don’t work for me because it feels like more distance being put between you and the narrative, but in this case it really elevated the story. And of course, this was a very introspective read with a focus on character development.

One Hundred Nights of Hero by Isabelle Greenberg Why I loved this one: The artwork here is just gorgeous, just like in the first one The Encyclopedia of Early Earth. Its beautiful and has a lovely fairytale vibe.

An Unkindness of Ghosts by Rivers Solomon Why I loved this one: This has a very sharp, very unique voice to it and a protagonist unlike anyone I ever read. And the spaceship setting was really cool as well.

Under the Pendulum Sun by Jeannette Ng Why I loved this one: This is a fae book that gets fucking dark, and truly fucked up as any proper fae book should do. Some parts of it read almost like a trippy nightmare which is just delightful. And the premise itself? Just wild, man

Girl Mans Up by M-E Girard Why I loved this one: Say it with me everyone 📣: Coming 👏 of 👏 Age 👏 Narrative

Honorable Mentions

Yes, I have a whole entire seperate list of honorable mentions. What’s it to you?

A  Very Large Expanse of Sea by Tahereh Mafi Why I loved this one: The writing is beautiful and engaging. The protagonist is refreshing, lively, realistic, and I loved her perspective. Her internal journey was wonderfully rendered. The issues she dealt with were important, timely, and needed to be put into the forefront. It had a lyrical, atmospheric quality to it and I thoroughly enjoyed my experienced reading it. Why it didn’t quite make the list: It almost, almost made the list because it was really good. There was just one thing that bothered me. I get that the point of this book was that the protagonist was really isolated in the beginning, but even so... she had a romance with a guy, she had her brother and his friends whom she hung out with. But she didn’t seem to know any other girls... at all. The only other real female character I remember is her mother. And then there’s one interaction with another girl and that girl is a racist bitch. So I didn’t like that portrayal.

Geography Club by Brent Hartinger Why I loved this one: Teenagers finding themselves.... friendship..... clubs.... gay people.... I mean, come on.  Why it didn’t quite make the list: The writing style isn’t the best.

And I Darken by Kiersten White Why I loved this one: This was a great first book in a trilogy with a historical setting I haven’t read about before. It has court intrigue, sultans, assassins and political imprisonments. The main character’s brother, Radu, is one of my favorite characters I read about this year and I liked the way this tackled religion. Why it didn’t quite make the list: Being the first one in a series, this feels more like...a prologue, than anything that could stand on its own.

When I Hit You - A Portrait of the Author as a Young Wife by Meena Kandasamy Why I loved this one: It’s an unflinching look at an abusive marriage, power dynamic, and coping with the more patriarchal aspects of your own culture. It’s also really well written and extremely believable.  Why it didn’t quite make the list: It had an odd framing device, and because the protagonist was a writer, this caused it to be kind of pretentious at times.

Here to Stay by Sara Farizan Why I loved this one: This is a very realistic depiction of high school, and the social dynamics most teenagers for. Teenagers aren’t wise or mature, most of them have a lot of growing to do. And I liked how flawed everyone there was. They just wanted to keep their head down, or they overcompensated for their insecurities, and they dealt with their own issues. I liked how the topics in here were handled. Why it didn’t quite make the list: The plot was a bit too simplistic for me. 

Into the Drowning Deep by Mira Grant Why I loved this one: Killer mermaids! Need I say more? I’ll say it again - killer mermaids! Why it didn’t quite make the list: Despite the title, this isn’t really that deep. Just a fun monster horror.

The Emperor’s Soul by Brandon Sanderson Why I loved this one: The one thing that Sanderson does consistently well is develop magic systems, and I really liked this one. And because this one was so short, there wasn’t some epic (or even cosmic) overarching plot, but a rather clear and relatively small narrative of a specific task that needed to be completed, which I found absolutely fascinating. I think I like this story even more than the Mistborn trilogy. It’s my favorite from him. Why it didn’t quite make the list: Everytime Sanderson writes a female character, you can tell he feels so proud of himself for being such a feminist. 

I Was Born for This by Alice Oseman Why I loved this one: This surprised me. Even though I loved Radio Silence by Oseman and had read that one before, the subject matter of this book didn’t really seem appealing to me, but it was still really fun. I loved the friendship dynamics and the discussions of fame. Why it didn’t quite make the list: I just very much wanted this one to go more in depth and really dive into that character development, and these relationship dynamics. I just wanted a little more of that. 

A History of Glitter and Blood by Hannah Moskowitz Why I loved this one: I loved most things to do with the fae - the dark fae of folklore, mind you, not whatever SJM is doing. Now, these fairies aren’t really traditional, but the setting is definitely dark. Also, there’s an unreliable narrator which I love.  Why it didn’t quite make the list: I was kind of iffy about some of the racial implications with the goblins. 

The Monster Baru Cormorant by Seth Dickinson Why I loved this one: We stan a ruthless, traitorous accountant. Love that dark character development, bitch.  Why it didn’t quite make the list: While I loved the first one, this one really lacked a clear sense of structure or direction. The pacing was kind of off. 

Girls of Paper and Fire by Natasha Ngan Why I loved this one: I loved the worldbuilding here, and the setting of concubines in a castle, quiety rebelling in themselves. Yay.  Why it didn’t quite make the list: It felt a bit juvenile at some points, some things were rushed, and I would have liked a bit more depth to the characters, especially the love interest.

[muzikalmoderator]

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[spencerxreiders]

Permanently (Dad!Reid)

Title: Permanently Rating: Y- T Word Count: 1101 Summary: "Daddy? Please don't cry." Summary: damn Olive, back @ it again making me cry :,) lmao I've been working on this for a while and I'm super hyped to finally post it. Thank you for reading!

"Harry, come on- imagine how Clara would feel if you did this," Spencer tried to negotiate, his hands held in surrender.

"No- No! Clara is- dead!" the deranged man argued, aiming his revolver at the agent. "You d-" Spencer stopped as a familiar voice interrupted.

"Daddy!"

"No!" Spencer practically screeched as Olive ran into the rickety building with tears running down her cheeks. "Go- honey, please," he begged, looking between the toddler and the unsub. "I can't leave you," she whimpered, taking a shaky step towards him.

"Da- watch out!" she cried, running forwards. Suddenly, three gunshots sounded.

Spencer screamed curses as the bullet meant for his calf lodged itself in her stomach and looked away as Hotch fired two shots at Harry.

"Daddy, please!" Olive sobbed as the agent put pressure on her wound. "Jellybean, I-it's going to be okay," he assured. "It hurts so bad," she cried."I know, I know- sh, you'll be ok, princess," he assured through a breaking voice. "Where the hell is the medic?" he shouted as blood coated his hands.

"Daddy, I'm getting tired," she said. Spencer's heart dropped as her eyelids began to flutter. "Olive, no- Olive! Olive!"

Spencer jolted upright, panting as he recovered from the dream. "Daddy?"

His head jerked towards the familiar toddler at the foot of the bed. "Olive," he gasped in relief. "What's going on, baby?" he asked sleepily before rubbing his watery eyes.

"You were calling me," she whispered. "And I couldn't sleep." Spencer frowned sympathetically before ushering her beside him. "Come here, baby."

She scampered onto the mattress, her form illuminated by the bathroom light in the hall. In one swift motion, she was curled up into his side while burying her face in his grey T-shirt.

Spencer reached down to brush her wild curls away from both their faces, twirling a few strands around his fingers. He couldn't help but cradle the side of her face, desperate for proof of her existence.

The feeling of her blood on his skin, the sound of her cries, the way the tears slid down her face: it haunted him. It was so realistic, and the worst part was how plausible it was.

"Daddy? Please don't cry."

Spencer looked down at his daughter with concern. "What?" "You're crying," she said before raising her hand to wipe away the tears he was previously unaware of. "Why are you sad?"

What was he supposed to say? There was no way in hell that he was going to tell her, he couldn't. His lip quivered as he stared down at her, the memories drowning him once again.

The air conditioning was cool against his skin as he pulled the navy blue blankets up further over them, noting how chilled the four year old felt. He sighed before kissing the top of her hair.

"I just had a bad dream, it's ok," he assured softly. "Are you sure?" Olive asked. Spencer nodded quickly as he wrapped both of his arms securely around her, making her giggle. "Daddy's fine, baby. I'm sorry I woke you up," he said.

However, he wasn't that sorry: he probably would have gone to her room to ensure her safety if she hadn't beat him to it. He felt guilty, of course, but he was incredibly glad to have her (safely) in his arms.

"What was your dream about?" she asked curiously. 'Dammit,' he thought, scrambling for an acceptable answer. "Nothing for you to worry about," he dismissed.

It was silent for a few minutes, the only sounds being their slightly quick breathing and the AC. Olive was the first to speak, squeezing her eyes shut before asking what had been on her mind. "Was your dream about me?"

Spencer inhaled sharply before hiding his face in her hair. Sobs he couldn't control wracked his body as Olive tried to console him, her whispers reminiscent of his after she had nightmares.

"Please don't cry," she begged. "It's ok, Daddy. Everything's fine, right?" Spencer's breathing evened out slowly, thanks to Olive's sweet words.

"Princess, I'm so sorry. How about we get some rest?" he asked after wiping away his tears. Olive nodded before pressing a kiss to his cheek, causing a smile to spread across his face. "Daddy, I'm sorry you're sad," she apologized.

"Baby, oh no, don't be sorry. You make me so happy, thank you for that," he assured. "It's going to be ok," he sighed, more to himself than anything. "You are my whole world, don't ever, ever forget that."

Olive nodded, giving her dad a sheepish grin. "I won't forget," she giggled. "Promise?" Spencer mock-gasped. "Promise!" Olive squeaked.

"If you say so- I love you so much, pumpkin, ok?" Olive giggled before yawning, and then giggled again. "I love you too, Daddy!"

"You gonna sleep in here tonight?" he asked through a yawn. "Can I?" "Yes ma'am," he said exaggeratedly. "Yay!" she cheered quietly. "Will you tell me a story while I go to sleep?"

Spencer nodded, thankful for his eidetic memory. "You gotta actually fall asleep though, ok?" "Ok," she agreed sheepishly before letting out another yawn.

And so, with Olive asleep almost instantly on his chest, he recited her favorite story. As soon as her snores filled the room, he stopped, choosing to admire her sleepily.

How many more times, he wondered, would he fill her head with his grown-up problems? His biggest fear was that she would grow up to resent him: was his job attributing to that?

He reminded himself over and over that it was nothing but a dream, that that wouldn't happen, that there was no chance- but he knew the truth. Everyday he spent at the BAU, with his second family, he put Olive in danger.

Olive came first: that was his responsibility. His family at the bureau was just that, his family. However, Olive was his whole world. He couldn't leave her. His job wasn't worth it.

With sorrow in his chocolate eyes, he glanced towards his bedside table. Inside the drawer, his gun and badge rested atop the file of resignation papers he had picked up, papers he wasn't sure if he would use.

With a sigh, he gently moved Olive to the right side of the bed before waddling into the kitchen, phone in hand. The clock read 4:00, around the time Hotch woke up to jog,

"Reid? Is everything alright?" his boss answered after a few rings. "I just.. I need to talk to you today. I think-I think I need to take a leave."

"A leave?"

"Maybe permanently."

[thisdaynews]

Super Bowl 2020: Who is playing, who are the favourites and where will the game be won?

New Post has been published on https://thebiafrastar.com/super-bowl-2020-who-is-playing-who-are-the-favourites-and-where-will-the-game-be-won/

Super Bowl 2020: Who is playing, who are the favourites and where will the game be won?

Super Bowl 54 is the first to feature two teams with red as their primary uniform colour

Super Bowl 54 Venue:Hard Rock Stadium, MiamiDate:Sunday, 2 FebruaryTime:23:30 GMT Coverage:Live on BBC TV, Connected TV, iPlayer, BBC Sport website and mobile app from 23:00 GMT, plus live text coverage and in-play clips.

The streets of Miami are ringing with talk of $5,000 tickets, hype around arguably the best player in the game today and being in the sights of more than 150m people worldwide. Not to mention JLo and Shakira – yep, it’s Super Bowl time!

But who’s playing, who are the favourites and where will the game be won and lost?

Make sure you join BBC Sport on Sunday night and follow the fun…

How to watch the Super Bowl live on the BBC

Who’s playing?

In the red corner are the San Francisco 49ers, who won five Super Bowls in 13 years across the 1980s and early 90s. Think Jerry Rice, Joe Montana and Steve Young. Since then – a long wait.

It’s 25 years since their last Super Bowl win, coincidentally in the same stadium in Miami, with their last appearance at the end of season party ending in thrilling defeat at the hands of the Baltimore Ravens seven years ago.

In the, err, also red corner, are the Kansas City Chiefs, who make the Niners’ 25-year wait for glory seem like a mere blip. (Both sides normally wear red but as the designated ��home’ team in Miami, it’s the Chiefs who will be in their usual colours, meaning the 49ers will have to wear white.)

It’s 50 years since the Chiefs’ sole Super Bowl win and their fans have understandably hit Miami in numbers. Will they be celebrating come full-time though? It’s a tough game to call this year.

Is this the biggest NFL legend you don’t know?

The QBS – Mahomes v Garoppolo

It’s reductive to bring the Super Bowl down to the two quarterbacks but the fact remains that they are often the key players on the night. After all, a quarterback has been named Superbowl MVP on 29 occasions from the previous 53 events.

In Patrick Mahomes, the Chiefs may well have the best QB in the business. Last year’s overall MVP has been in sparkling form again, slinging no-look passes and making plays with his left hand – and his feet too. Check out his superb touchdown in the play-off win against Tennessee.

Mahomes is still only 24 – he’ll be the fifth-youngest QB to start a Super Bowl, and would be the second-youngest to win it – and his 87 touchdown passes so far are the most for any player in their first 35 games. His baseball background makes him unorthodox and exciting to watch.

“His performances have been no surprise,” wide receiver Tyreek Hill said this week.

“I saw it on day one in training camp, he was making some crazy throws. In the rookie year most guys are happy just to be there, not him.

“He had the right mindset, right attitude, he wasn’t scared to make a throw. To be part of this offense is a blessing for me, my job is easy. I just go out there and run and the MVP QB finds me.”

Colin Kaepernick was quarterback last time the 49ers reached the Super Bowl but this year their hopes are pinned on Tom Brady’s former back-up with Hollywood leading man looks – Jimmy Garoppolo.

Expect a very different approach from Mahomes though – while the Chiefs’ playmaker throws the ball to all avenues, Jimmy G attempted just eight passes in the 37-20 win over the Green Bay Packers in the NFC Championship game, the fewest in a post-season game since Miami Dolphin Earl Morrell in Super Bowl VI (six).

Garoppolo and the Niners may rely again on their superb running game, but the quarterback is more than capable of taking the ball in his own hands if needs be.

“I’m still progressing, still learning and growing as a quarterback,” he said.

“There is a long way to go, I’m just getting started. A year ago I was learning how to run again [after a serious knee injury sustained against the Chiefs], it makes you realise how special this moment is. You don’t know if you’re ever going to be back again.”

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BBC Sport challenges four amateur American Football players to try the training regime

Legacy or legendary? The coaches

The contrast between the franchises extends to the men under the headsets – the Chiefs are coached by Andy Reid, a 61-year-old veteran boasting nearly 30 years of NFL experience and with more NFL wins under his belt than any coach not to win a Super Bowl.

He coached the Eagles when they lost in 2004 and could become the fourth man to coach multiple Super Bowls without a win. Much of the media chatter around him in Miami this week has been about the ‘l word’ – legacy.

In the other corner is a man who knows all about that – Kyle Shanahan is just 40, in his third season as a head coach but son of a Super Bowl-winning coach in Mike Shanahan.

They could become the first father and son duo to win a Super Bowl, come Sunday – Kyle was a ballboy when the 49ers last won the trophy and has grown up around the game’s showpiece event.

“I always know how big a deal it is to get here,” he said. “You know how big a deal this is all around the world, it’s always been my favourite time of the year.

“I used to try and take a week off school, my parents wouldn’t let me but mentally I did.”

Cut, cut, cut – from rejection to redemption?

The 49ers hardly threw the ball against the Packers when they booked their place at this Super Bowl – they didn’t have to.

Raheem Mostert, a running back on his seventh NFL team in just five years, rampaged through the Packers, scoring four touchdowns and rushing for 220 yards, the second-most ever in an NFL post-season game.

The keen surfer, born in the shark-bite capital of the world just 260 miles north of Miami, is some character. He worked night shifts in Burger King after failing to make the grade and carries a list of the six teams who cut him to every game for motivation – not to mention the fact that he has a bible verse tattooed on his chest.

Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for God is with me.

“I honestly thought at the start of the season I would seize my moments to help the team win, I wasn’t expecting this breakout year,” he said.

“There are no ‘me’ guys on this team. We are like a locomotive, we all work as one. You will see that come Sunday.”

Mostert will have his grandfather in attendance on Sunday, his biggest fan who used to record all of his games onto VCR but will upgrade to a digital copy for his grandson’s Super Bowl show.

Mostert became the first player in NFL history to have 200+ rush yards and 4+ rush touchdowns in a play-off game

‘You have to have some mental stability’

Everywhere you look on Sunday there are weapons. Mostert is one man to watch, the Chiefs have star wide receiver Tyreek Hill, who’s so quick he wants to run in the Olympics, while tight ends Travis Kelce and George Kittle and Chiefs’ running back Damien Williams could all prove to be game winners. Not to even mention on the defensive stars on both sides.

And yet it could all come down to one kick.

Robbie Gould is the kicker for the 49ers, as individual a role as it can get in a team game but backed by 18 family members in Miami. Miss a few in a row and you lose your job. Boot the winning points on Sunday and you’re a hero.

“I played soccer in centre midfield and didn’t start playing NFL until my sophomore year at high school – now I’m at the Super Bowl,” he said.

“It’s hard, there are only 32 spots in the league as a kicker, you have to have some mental stability and not think that your next kick could be the end of your career.

“Trust your training, go out and have fun and be confident.”

Gould told me he didn’t care if he kicked the winning points or if the Niners won by 30 points, as long as they won.

I didn’t believe him. But somebody will be the hero by the end of play deep into the small hours of Monday morning, UK time. Make sure you watch.

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‘I’d run naked around the palace’ – Stevo the Madman grills Super Bowl stars

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[toothtub05-blog]

The Linc - Sidney Jones among Eagles players who will define the 2019 season

Let’s get to the Philadelphia Eagles links ...

Lawlor: Six Eagles Who Will Help Define 2019 - PE.com Sidney Jones had a good offseason. He flashed serious talent and expectations were high going into the season. Jones played well early on. He was mostly in the slot and many people wanted him to move to the outside, where the Eagles were struggling a bit. In Week 6, Jones hurt his hamstring and then missed the next three games. He came back against the Saints but reinjured the hamstring. He missed the next game. Jones came back for the next couple of games, but got hurt during the game in Dallas and really struggled. He just couldn’t run. He didn’t play anymore in 2018. Jones showed some talent. The problem is that he only played in nine games. He has got to find a way to stay healthy. Jones’ play dipped as the season went along. Part of that may be due to injury, but not all of it. He must get better, both in coverage and as a tackler. If Jones can take a notable step forward like Agholor did, it would make the defense substantially better in 2019. Jones spent most of his time in the slot last year, but I’m guessing he plays mostly outside in the upcoming season. Anyone who watched Jones play in college knows the talent is there. He’s got the potential. We just have to see if he can put it all together at the NFL level.

Busting six myths from the Eagles’ 2018 season - BGN Nick Foles averaged 22.1 points per game in five regular season starts and two playoff starts, while Carson Wentz averaged 22.0 in his 11 starts. Of course, two playoff games are tougher draws for an offense, so that should be considered, but while Wentz averaged nearly 15 passing first downs per game during his time as starter, Foles averaged just shy of 13. Carson Wentz had seven performances with a passer rating over 100, while Foles had two. Foles certainly came through late in games and helped the team win two huge contests with last minute drives against the Texans and Bears, but Wentz had a 4th-quarter passer rating of 102.4, while Foles’ was 67.5. The biggest difference in Wentz’ ability to put points on the board and Foles’ time in the starting lineup wasn’t what they were doing on offense, it’s what the defense was doing to help out. The defense allowed an average of 23.3 points per game when Wentz was in there, as opposed to 18.1 points per game for Foles.

For First-Time Head Coaches Brian Flores and Zac Taylor, It’s a Post-Super Bowl Scramble - MMQB Nick Foles and Teddy Bridgewater would be the next two quarterback names on the list. And one agent raised the possibility that their teams could transition tag them ahead of free agency. There’s merit to the idea on the surface. Bridgewater won’t be franchised. Foles, you’d imagine, only would be if Eagles czar Howie Roseman had a trade worked out before the tag window closes. And so retaining matching rights might give these teams hope to hold on to valuable backups. The problem? The salary cap. The Saints and Eagles project to have less than $10 million in breathing room each—both are top five in money committed to the 2019 cap right now—and the transition tag at quarterback is expected to top $20 million. So Bridgewater or Foles simply signing their tenders could create problems, even after the teams make some moves to clean up the cap, logistically, if the Eagles or Saints wanted to do anything in March. That means it’s a good bet Bridgewater is on the market unfettered in March. And it’s not hard to imagine Foles getting there either.

Kyler Murray and One Coach’s Argument For Why The Small QB Will Have a Massive Impact in the NFL - FMIA Nick Foles heads toward Franchisetagville.

NFL Trade Rumors: Redskins were interested in trading for QB Joe Flacco - Hogs Haven Reports came out today that the Redskins were also interested in trading for Flacco. The Redskins love trading for older QBs on the downside of their career. Flacco will count for $18.5 million on this year’s cap. This would have been a ridiculous amount for the Redskins considering they have Smith’s $20.4 million and McCoy’s $3.375 million($2m dead money). The Redskins are likely to bring in at least 1 new QB this offseason, unless they plan on tanking the season with McCoy/Johnson behind center. There will be expensive rentals like Case Keenum and Nick Foles available. Or cheaper backups like Teddy Bridgewater and Ryan Fitzpatrick.

Will Eli Manning return for his 16th season with the Giants? - ESPN When will there be a decision about Manning’s future? A final verdict needs to be made by March 17, which is the fifth day of the new league year and when Manning is guaranteed a $5 million bonus if he’s on the Giants’ 90-man active roster. That would all but cement his status for 2019. Of course, it’s likely a decision will be made before then. The Giants can’t afford to be so patient. Free agency begins March 13. Teams can begin negotiating with players March 11. If the Giants elect to dip into the free-agent waters, they’ll need to make Manning aware of their intentions. They aren’t about to leave the most accomplished quarterback in franchise history dangling while flirting with a potential replacement, especially not with their concerted effort to handle his case carefully after what unfolded with his benching during the 2017 season. The more likely date to watch is Feb. 26. That is when the combine begins. The combine is where a lot of behind-the-scenes flirting takes place. It’s expected that the Manning decision will be made public before that week is over.

Pre-Combine Risers I Just Don’t Get - The Draft Network But you have to pick up the other end of the stick: unheralded players who, despite being draftable, don’t deserve the same pre-Combine juice as other late discoveries. Sure, they might even be better than you thought given their in-season hype, but that doesn’t mean they’re more than Day 3 pieces, with intriguing traits or tape to some degree. But it’s important to remember that uncovering those players as better than expectation does not mean they have to catapult in the top of your rankings. It’s important to calibrate, and remember sometimes Day 3 guys are just that: Day 3 guys.

The NFL’s collusion settlement suggests Colin Kaepernick and Eric Reid had a case all along - SB Nation For the NFL to decide not ride out the lawsuit, and settle with both Reid and Kaepernick instead, suggests that the two players had a case. This settlement also came before discovery, a period in which more evidence is brought forward, was completed. The NFL chose to close the lawsuit before whatever skeletons they might have had in their closet were potentially exposed. They paid for silence.

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Source: https://www.bleedinggreennation.com/2019/2/18/18228865/eagles-news-sidney-jones-among-players-who-will-define-2019-season-philadephia-cornerback-slot-cb