#or other elements without at all discussing how the author engages with them

[alistonjdrake]

I know a lot of writers that agree with me but it is a strange feeling to be surrounded by people irl who would probably cut me off or think I whole-heartedly endorse everything I write and I'm gonna be honest a boy is a little hurt.

Like when did we start to agree that art couldn't be messy? That all of our portrayals must be sanitized and neat so that no one misinterprets me or has to question what they think about something they've read? Why must I avoid subtly and be blunt when talking about a wrong thing so people know that I think it's wrong. Are you not bored? Is it not limiting? Shouldn't we just all read how-to pamphlets instead?

[z00oo1]

Collin and Penelope Fics

We Can't Be Friends by LovelyMagnolia

Penelope and Colin are two people who have never quite managed to get their timing right, but maybe all they need is one night to fix that. Modern AU

Yellow Dress by CassandraGoth

She wants only to secure a marriage that will allow her the freedom she needs to escape from under her mother's thumb and continue writing. But the unexpected return of a traveling gentleman and a sizeable bounty placed by the Queen to unmask a troublesome author.

A Wallflower's Bloom by Enganda

"Are you mad? I would never dream of courting Penelope Featherington." Brokenhearted from the words she heard from her childhood love, Penelope Featherington had decided to change her ways and prove herself worthy of being loved.

A Pound To A Penelope by FirstLadyJane

After having spent the off-season licking her wounds, Penelope comes back to Mayfair a pragmatic woman determined to take control of her fate. She's on a mission to cement her spinsterhood and accept a standing job offer in Ireland.

The Great Stage of Fools by lottielots11

Penelope is finally engaged to the man she has loved for most of her life, and she could not be happier if it wasn't for the secret which hangs over them. And with Colin's reluctance to even discuss Whistledown, how will they ever overcome their differences in order to marry?

Scattered Flowers by Cortlandia33

After her fallout with Eloise and hearing Colin's declaration to never marry her in front of the entire Ton, Penelope left high society and found a cottage in the country. Now, almost three years later, her choice comes back to haunt her when a certain someone begs for her forgiveness... and her heart.

the last one in your corner by my_middle_name_is_awkward

Penelope cannot agree to marry Colin because she knows Eloise will not approve

Kintsugi by Metamorphases

Watch as Colin Bridgerton goes to increasingly mad lengths to keep Penelope Featherington safe and sound (and away from other suitors).

Dark is the world's night without you my love by angellus08

Penelope meets someone from Colin's past and her old insecurities crop up.

Affection by lixabiz

Colin returns to London for the Season of 1815, hoping to reconnect with his friend Penelope - only to discover that everything has changed between them.

Attachment by lixabiz

(Set post S2. Some elements from the S3 synopsis, but not a prediction fic.)

Butterfly's Reverie by CassandraGoth

What might have changed had Penelope told Colin privately that her cousin Marina Thompson was with child? Not an easy scandal from which to untangle himself without the public protection of Lady Whistledown’s society papers.

Foolish One by LeighAnne_Balsdon

Colin announces his engagement to Marina and Penelope doesn't take it very well. She makes a hasty decision to run away from Mayfair, to save her broken heart. When Colin and Eloise find out that Penelope is missing they decide to look for her themselves. What they find, however, is something no one was expecting.

One of us has got to change by itsjustabee

Colin and Penelope accidentally wear matching outfits to the Bridgerton ball

My Give a Fucks are On Vacation by SuzyH_82

It’s just a pity that for the last three years, she’s also been Colin’s ‘friends with benefits’ friend. I mean, it’s not like Colin could ever want a relationship…technically he already has a very public girlfriend…his fellow presenter Marina, on his travel log TV show. However, after their latest hook-up, Penelope overhears Colin talking to the press and realizes Colin is never going to see her as anything more than a friend and she finally decides to move on with her life.

i chose this cyclone with you (my heart exploding) by Vryalys

Well perchance it is I who do not wish to marry you any longer,” she hissed furiously at him, her eyes prickling as she moved away from him to the farthest end of the coach bench. She pulled at his mother’s ring from her finger, where she was sure it no longer belonged. “I will not marry a man who loathes to even look at me.”

The Disappearance of Penelope Featherington by hippiechick7897

Penelope Featherington leaves the many scandals of her life behind to start anew while Colin desperately searches to find her and bring her back home. When they are reunited, Colin finds a threat he had not anticipated and wonders if he's too late to secure the affections of the woman he's just realized is his love.

Violet's Fifth Daughter by kermitthefrogstanaccount

Penelope faints at her and Colin’s engagement dinner and Violet gives a piece of her mind to Eloise about continuing to love Penelope after everything that’s happened.

Ruin by Sea_Dragonfly

Colin wouldn't remember the details of what his mother told him next. He would remember her hand warm on his knee, her eyes wide with concern, her voice gentle as velvet. All of it in stark contrast to the devastating news she shared. Penelope was ruined.

Dishonest Conquest by lilyeval

Colin is such a gracious helper, he ruins Penelope’s every opportunity with her suitors. So protective of her honor, he even lets himself into her very private bedroom.

Just Having Fun by Spartangal22

When Eloise arrives home from Scotland, the very first place she goes is to see her best friend and brother in their home. And since they’re family, the rules of social etiquette need hardly apply. Why should she bother knocking?

her mother's daughter by secretlydelighted

the story where Lord Debling's son is courting Agatha Bridgerton and Colin is not having it, because why is another vegetarian all up in his business?

Meet Me at Midnight by Sevens11073003

Or eight times Penelope runs into a Bridgerton on the way to Colin’s room + the one time she runs into Colin on the way to bed.

have my back, yeah, every day by my_middle_name_is_awkward

Colin had very little patience for Cressida Cowper before he and Penelope were engaged. Now, he must make it clear that he will not tolerate her comments about his soon-to-be wife.

Unreliable Narrator by WhiskeyTinCup

Eloise has a lifelong habit of overreacting to Penelope's love life and everyone knows it, even if she refuses to acknowledge it.

I Do Not Want To Stand By Your Side by magentaverse

She didn’t need a love declaration. She certainly didn’t need him to sign his life to her. She just needed his love. A few smiles and his willing ear. But Colin Bridgerton did what he did best—he changed the course of her life the moment he muttered, "I do not want to stand by your side, Penelope Featherington."

Best Laid Plans meet MissCarriage by sanoiro

Or The unconventional birthing place of - the fated to be Adventurous - Miss Agatha Bridgerton...

Why do fools fall in love by NomDeJeen

Now that they are married, Colin wants Penelope to *win* the heir race with her sisters.

Benedict offers some unexpected advice.

It goes about how you would expect.

of manmade tales & honest lies by cchampdelevande

just saw someone asking "what if penelope finds out she's pregnant right after the lady whistledown fight with colin" and i genuinely think shonda is not above torturing us like that

Newton vs The Bridgerton Men by Lovelymagnolia

In which, Newton figures out Penelope's pregnant before she does, Colin develops beef with a dog, and a longstanding battle between Newton and all the Bridgerton men is unearthed.

Cracks by Vellinae

It’s a winter of firsts for everyone. It’s Colin and Penelope’s first winter as a married couple. It’s Penelope’s first time putting on ice skates and venturing onto the frozen lake with the entire Bridgerton family. It’s Colin’s first time watching the ice crack, just barely out of reach, and seeing his wife disappear into the murky water below.

At Least It Wasn't A Duel by SugMak

When Penelope sends Colin out of the house so she can focus on his journals, he hears Fife and the Toxic Lord crew talking about Penelope's breasts. He doesn't take it well. He's not particularly looking forward to her finding out about it.

Tintiddle Talks by goddammitfandom

Anthony ruins a wonderful family picnic by bringing up Colin's past indiscretions. He gets answers that somehow make him even angrier.

Tried to Pick My Battles 'Til the Battle Picked Me by headphonesbaby

Colin always seems to find an issue with Pen's boyfriends

I Wish You Knew by threefundamentaltruths

 which Colin and Penelope ran away together to escape the queen's wrath.

Visiting A Farm by ancoraimparo_youknowwho

Eloise is back from Scotland and eager to meet Her bestie. But things start on a very wrong note because who the hell does THAT to their wife??!!! Right??

uh-oh i'm fallin' in love (oh no) by stolemystarl17

Colin didn't stop the proposal at the Queen's Ball, but he can stop the banns.

grieving for the living by itwasglorious

Penelope marries Lord Debling and Colin cannot watch. So Colin leaves and Penelope settles into married life. A year later he returns.

Stand By Me by Musicalmidget

Penelope has been keeping another secret from Colin but upon see his family together at Francesca's wedding, she decides it's time to tell him and her plan for Lady Whistledown. This is a continuation of the scene from the study and will continue until the epilogue.

An Honorary Bridgerton by My_middle_name_is_awkward

The Bridgertons have always loved Penelope Featherington as if she was one of them.

Of course, they are all ecstatic that Colin will be making her an official Bridgerton, instead of just one of honorary status.

Scraped up off the pavement by missparker

After Penelope falls out with Eloise over her popular gossip blog, all the Bridgertons cut contact with her. Penelope moves to Scotland and buys a book shop and gets on with her life.

That is, until she spots Colin Bridgerton at the coffee shop next door.

Catch & Release by TonyStarksAngstyHeart

Everyone develops a tiny crush on Penelope as they wait, betting of course, for Colin to pull his head out of his arse.

Spanning 1803-1821

P-E-To-The-T-T-Y by jerrymander

Colin may be coming to terms with Penelope’s family but that does not mean he has forgiven them for their slights against Penelope.

Ran out room so here the link to part 2

[prettyboykatsuki-moved]

oh boy lmfao.

hi. this is the extended authors note for my love, my alibi. there is nothing important to the fic itself so if you're comfortable with the presented dead dove content- you are more then welcome to skip this entirely. i hope you enjoy/enjoyed reading!

cw very long discussion about fictional incest. just me yapping.

this fic is the first long-form incest fic im publishing on ao3 in general but also the first dc fic i am posting for love and deepspace which has a very wide audience. i've been warned a few times about antis and whatnot but i don't make this post trying to specifically address them but to kind of briefly weigh in on my choice to write caleb and mcs relationship this way

despite the english localization and how it attempts to scrub out the incestual element of caleb and mcs relationship - i don't think you can remove this aspect without butchering calebs character almost entirely.

i would go as far as saying removing the familial aspect of calebs feelings and reducing him to close childhood friend makes him as significantly less moving and less interesting.

i also think a lot of the story's thematic choices and motifs (forbidden fruit for example) do not make sense unless you consider the relationship between mc and caleb as siblings first and foremost.

the level of intensity and emotional angst just really explicitly does not work the same. there's no reason for mc to react to romantic advances with such guilt and denial towards a character she explicitly considers a friend.

there is also no reason for caleb to feel explicitly responsible for behavior in the way he is in canon.

caleb and mc being siblings is a crucial aspect of their relationship - and it is also crucial to note they experience a conflicting sense of mutual attraction in the years they grow up that way. evidenced in multiple of the cards.

also in literally every other version of the game (cn, jpn, kr) it is affirmed explicitly that caleb views himself as mcs brother SDKFJSD.

for all of these reasons i wanted to explore the nature of their relationship and play with some of the discomfort because i think it makes for an interesting story. i dont think caleb sees being mcs brother as contradictory. his denial of their relationship feels intentionally hurtful to mc in order to make her address the uncomfortable underlying attraction imo. caleb wanting to be everything to mc being literal in nature. this is why he can also act very parental towards her despite the small age gap.

i can understand why incest in this regard might be uncomfortable for some of you to engage with, and i respect your feelings and your choice but i do encourage you to look beyond the moral taboo and try to examine the themes that come with incest like forbidden romance and co-dependence and think critically about how it impacts the story

and if you are still uncomfortable comfortable engaging with it, feel free to click off !! genuinely i get it, its not for everyone. but please do so without judgement of those who are comfortable. no real people are exploited in writing this. it is all make believe and for fun

all that being said, i hope you like this fic that made me crazy.

love,

fang.

[alfgifu]

Fic analysis 53. The naked truth

Link: https://archiveofourown.org/works/57006502

Word count: 2,110

Chapters: 1

First posted: 29th June 2024 

Summary: 

Cliopher Mdang doesn't know what to expect from his appointment as secretary to the Sun-on-Earth, but he knows he isn't meant to survive it. And that really, really gets his goat.

How and why this came about

This sprang out of one of those lovely free-flowing conversations that take place sometimes on discord that happened to bring together in a short part of the backscroll some references to the emperor’s new clothes and some musing on Cliopher being a bit angrier and less careful on his first day as his Radiancy’s secretary. The two gelled in my head and the idea - the extended joke, really - was too good not to try to write it.

One of the things that makes this so delicious is that his Radiancy would adore being ranted at by Cliopher so much. It would be so affirming for him! Enrichment! And so satisfying for Cliopher to get a chance to just rant about it all - if rather unsettling not to then be executed.

What worked and what didn’t

Cliopher’s perspective in this situation was so much fun to write, because the reader knows that his Radiancy is delighted and intrigued by his treasonous pronouncements and he’s too angry to be stressed about what he believes to be their natural consequences. It was also fun writing a story where I knew the reveal at the end would recontextualise everything that came before it. The whole thing just worked and it’s such a gift when that happens.

What I learned from writing it

I’ve written enough stories riffing off this first meeting that I have a beautifully clear vision of it. Not a ‘correct’ vision necessarily, but I have a sense in my head of what his Radiancy’s study looks and feels like and the motions of both Cliopher and his Radiancy blocked out like actors in the space. That makes it quick and easy to take the moment and twist it sideways again without having to stop and think too hard or check any references. This is the direct opposite from how it feels to write original fic, where nothing has any shape or motion but what I’m giving it as I write, which means that so many more things need to be thought through as I go.

I started writing fanfic because I wanted to develop my skills in a context where I could get feedback on what I was doing. I’ve learned an unbelievable amount and had a huge amount of fun, too. But there are some elements of writing in a fandom that support you as an author in a way that isn’t so available for original fic. There’s an existing shared idea of the world and the characters, and other people thinking about them as deeply as you are - that allows for a great deal of mutual support and co-creation. There’s so much more structure already available to build on.

I enjoy writing original fic but doubt it will ever flow as easily as fanfic. The more layers of worldbuilding I put down into the plan for my original novels the smoother it gets, but it remains harder and slower and requires more dedicated time and engagement. I can’t write my original fic on my commute, not yet, and I struggle to get my thoughts together about it at the end of a long day. That means that it’s particularly hard to keep going when other life events or activities push into my slots of dedicated writing time (for much of this year I was writing job applications instead, for example). With fanfic, because the mental spadework is so much lighter, I can just keep adding in scraps of time and - since it’s building on such strong foundations - still be happy with the result.

(Note that writing original fic in collaboration with someone else also makes the spadework easier, and I have managed to write original work on my commute when doing so in discussion with another person who is also constructing the framework for the world - it’s just so infinitely easier to think in partnership than it is to think well alone.)

[liminalwings]

DMBR - Seeking Dragons: Connecting to Dragon Energy and Magick

Author: Virginia Chandler

Book Link

"The most honest, down-to-earth Dragon Magic book on the market. Great for those just starting a dragon path, and a breath of fresh air for those who have already been practicing for several years. This book draws from draconic lore around the world to create a personal system working with dragon archetypes, so does not fall into the trap of other works that presents Unverified Personal Gnosis as some sort of Universal Truth, nor does she make bold claims of a false ‘historic authenticity’ like certain others; the author states clearly that your path will likely not end up looking like her own path presented here as you develop your practice. 

This book is very much meant as a thoughtful springboard and introduction to working with dragons and becoming familiar with their energies. Out of the handful of dragon magic books currently on the market, this is the first one I would be comfortable recommending to beginners, as no matter your view on the nature of draconic existence, much of what is presented in here can be applied just as well. "

From the author of Year of the Magickal Dragon, which I've reviewed previously and gave lukewarm approval to (compared to other dragon magic books which tend to run mostly tepid). From the start, Chandler makes it very clear that she is offering a system of working that is, one, based on her own developed path rather than trying to claim a false historic legitimacy or universal truth, and two, is very clearly once again utilizing draconic archetypes. I'm not an archetypal kind of witch but it can definitely have its place and use, and a lot of practice suggestions in this book can be applied to non-archetypal beings as well. She also says plainly that a lot of the practices she presents are just how she does things and that your path, as you use her examples as a springboard, may end up looking very different as you practice; there is no 'this is how it absolutely must be'. As such it goes without saying that with how much personal leeway there is given and the fact that you're working with archetypes, there is little-to-no 'dragons are like this' or other similar absolute statements about the nature of dragons; dragons, in this system, are how you as the practitioner experience them. There is also no talk about Atlantis, multiple dimensions, Draconic Elemental Rulers/Universal Clan Leaders, or equating magic with quantum mechanics, thank gods. She does encourage readers to engage in some level of critical thinking and explore alternate ideas, though I do feel some of her alternate readings of dragon myths can be a slight stretch at times. 

It should also be mentioned that her practice is influenced by Neo-Paganism, which is to say Wiccan-flavored, at least a little bit. The meditations included are very similar to the ones she gave in her previous book, and are probably the most rigid part of her work (personally not a fan, but that's okay). Also included are incense and oil recipes for various rituals, and she does make a point of basic health and safety practices (especially fire safety). There is both a 'recommended reading' AND citations, mostly for the lore she discusses with each archetype, but it's still nice to see. Warning though: two of her three recommendations for rune information (pertinent to her path as also taking Scandinavian influence) are by Edred Thorsson/Steven Flowers (of AFA affiliation). 

If I had to be honest, a lot of this felt like if someone had managed to turn Tumblr’s collective dragon magic posts into a full-fledged book… with far more UPG than I've been comfortable sharing so far. I almost wish this had been available before Conway's works, and might even deign to make this my first 'recommended book' for those new to working with dragons, instead of my usual stance of "they're all crap." Do I think it's perfect? Well, no. But it's the closest Llewellyn has gotten so far. 

[angedemystere]

Going on a limb here - I've been thinking about Jesus ships (romantic or quasi-romantic) and my views on them.

I'm gonna discuss a few and rank them as follows: Love it | Makes sense | Mmm not much there for me | Absolutely not

If there's a ship you know that I don't mention below the cut, DM me for my opinion and ranking!

Let's start with the big ones, then a few fictional ones of questionable (or nonexistent) notoriety:

Jesus x Mary Magdalene: Mmm not much there for me

I'm gun-shy about this ship because it gets pushed a lot, including by scholars, as a way to explain why Jesus would have a prominent female disciple. First of all, she was not his only female disciple - what about Joanna and Suzanna? Mary and Martha? (ok Joanna was married to Chuza so we'll let that slide).

Yes, Mary got to see Jesus first after the resurrection (according to John's gospel), which is awesome. But nothing about that encounter suggests a romantic connection, and I don't think a romantic connection would make it more meaningful. The whole point of Jesus appearing to Mary, or any woman, was to honor what society considered lowly. A woman's testimony was not valid in that time and place, yet Jesus made his resurrection evident to women first. I like when non-canonical stories explore Jesus and Mary's friendship, but a romantic connection undermines the significance of Mary's role rather than augments it.

Jesus x Judas: Absolutely not

I wouldn't be quite so annoyed about it if it weren't so dang prolific in fandom (among people who treat Jesus and his followers as characters more than real people). It's even more annoying when people try to pass it off as wholesome - y'know, apart from that little bit of betrayal for money thing. NO. At least own up that it's a tragic dynamic. Trying to whitewash it for the sake of a cute ship leaves me feeling even ickier.

Jesus x John: Makes sense

I don't consider it canon, but I'll take it over Jesus x Judas and Jesus x Mary Magdalene for a few reasons. It actually IS wholesome, and a romantic element fits with the "beloved disciple" narrative more believably (for me). I have a problem with the power imbalance (teacher-student) and subsequent age difference (30s vs. teens), but if fic frames acknowledges these elements and characters act appropriately (and in character), I'm fairly ok.

Jesus x Ana (The Book of Longings): Makes sense

Obviously the story is written with the intention of making Ana the wife of Jesus. I have some issues with the book and the relationship, but Sue Monk Kidd makes it fairly believable as an unconventional marriage of the era. I think Ana's story could have been told without her being Jesus's wife. At the same time, her relationship with Jesus develops in an interesting and engaging way. You don't necessarily think they are "in love" when they marry, but they acknowledge that they could be good for each other (and are attracted to each other), and it gives her a means of escaping a difficult situation at home.

Jesus x Tamara (Three from Galilee): Absolutely not

This relationship could have been ok were it not for some VERY weird choices made by the author, Marjorie Holmes. Significant age gap (30 vs. 15) and smacks of insta-love. They knew each other one day before deciding they were in love (after he first saw her standing under a waterfall ... yeah). Too many comparisons between Tamara and Mother Mary for me to be comfortable. Pretty much no personality from Tamara, all about how Jesus thinks he's found someone to have a "normal" life with, only to have that shut down. It's supposed to be tragic that they don't end up together, but honestly they dodged a bullet.

Jesus x Lucifer: ABSOLUTELY NOT

Yes, this ship exists. No, I don't know why. Ok, I can kinda imagine why. And I don't like it.

Jesus x Hel: Love it

I know ... I'm literally the only person who ships this.

For those who don't know, Hel is the Norse goddess of the dead. I'm writing a whole story that's a remix of the Harrowing of Hell (not denying the original Harrowing but expanding it with, "What if Jesus went to other underworlds besides Sheol, too?"). Obviously it depends on the interpretation of Hel's character - being a mythological figure, she has flexibility. Also it HAS to be slow-burn, enemies-to-lovers (for me). Would recommend to those intrigued by Jesus x Lucifer but want a healthy, not entirely heretical dynamic.

(Ok we can debate the heretical part.)

What other Jesus ships do you know?

[andypantsx3]

if u have energy and time for it i would love to hear more of your input on the kindle publishing and quantity over quality discussion of how those authors tend to intersect fandom genres/cliches (omegaverse, alien romance, hockey romanct, etc.) with more mainstream routes (publishing on kindle universe, booktok advertising, etc.).

like, I am the demographic who do read/write fanfic AND read a lot of the 'self published romance trash' on kindle universe and while i hate that a lot of people have that feeling about it, because i have managed to find quite a few gems that i KNOW would have flopped via traditional publishing routes and are only available via self publishing on such a large marketplace, i know from experience that a lot of the stuff out there is like...bad. Unfortunately, that means i have also experienced the pitfalls of authors who have managed to publish their first book, their first passion project, that is amazing and thoughtful and truly a work of love realizing that it's a quantity over quality market and adapting their writing to suit (dragging out stories and/or putting out multiple books with subpar quality writing).

genuinely, it's a space that both baffles me and gives me a bit of hope for some odd reason. is it annoying that everyone is jumping the romance train and we are getting a dozen poorly written books for 'this months hot trope' in order to make money off of romance- for sure, but i'm also reading books with plots and romances that would never get published elsewhere because what publishing house is gonna publish a book about a woman falling in love with an ant monster alien and having weird ant monster babies?????

-> This is the post being referenced, for those who have not seen it.

Strei my beloved!!!! Yeah of course, this is such an interesting topic to me!! Especially as someone who is also the biggest consumer of romance in any of my friend circles, and as a secret fanfic author who loves trends and used to churn out like a 20-30k fic every week in the early days of the pandemic. Apologies that I'm still brain-fried from fever and my work week but here are my additional thoughts.

Firstly I wanna say that critiquing the culture that puts pressure on authors to pump out content so quickly is absolutely not to say that there aren't gems out there. That is also not to say that anything that is trope-y, trendy, or self-produced/published is garbage either (and it would be wild for a fic author to say so when we have all read like, some omegaverse fic that has changed everything we think we know about love and life LOL).

I think self-publishing as an industry is also extremely interesting and a necessary obverse to traditional publishing houses, especially when it comes to allowing authors the freedom to publish stories that the industry may devalue. Though self-publishing does factor into the equation as the easiest mechanism by which people can pump out trendy content quickly without any of the checks tradpubbing might have, it's not really at the root of the issue here.

To me, that post was specifically critiquing not trends themselves, nor self-publishers for engaging in them, but rather the pressure on (or inversely the reward for) authors to consistently sacrifice quality in terms of outputting massive quantity in service of chasing those trends.

Quality itself is hard to define as well because tastes are so subjective and what might be "low quality" to some people on here I could mention who will know I am talking about them if they read this, is "high quality" and enjoyable to me! I draw the line of quality in my subjective experience; characters and plots that are unmemorable or that failed to make me feel anything. Things I hated or will have forgotten I've read in two weeks' time. Novels that are just like every other one exploring that trope/trend, not for the elements they share but for the ways they failed to bring anything new to that trope.

I'm not sure what the solution is really. I don't think you can or should ask people not to enjoy trends (I'm not gonna stop LOL). I don't think you can ask self-pub authors not to try to make the money they probably need to live. I think it's probably a tall, impossible order to ask the culture at large to change, to grow more conscientious about what they engage with and how, especially when probably all of us are brain-fried from gazillion hour work weeks and just want something light and fun to enjoy.

But I think this is a growing complaint across a lot of mediums. Marvel is making the same movie over and over again, Disney is remaking every single one of their animated franchises in soulless cash grabs, recycled content runs rampant on TikTok and YouTube, and for every excellent book out there, there are 30 garbage copycats. It's clear to me that there is some kind of discomfort growing among us about how nothing is original or interesting anymore.

Fic-wise, I think this pressure to consume and create content so quickly also results in some of the things we regret most about fandom; plagiarizers unwilling to think of or write their own fics, fics abandoned when the hype dies down around a trend, loose characterization that defies even the most generous of interpretations lol.

But at least on the fandom side, I think there are small things we can do to combat this pressure because it costs us nothing to do so, except in some cases a little self-restraint, self-forgiveness, and patience. (At least in small pockets of the community, you're not gonna be able to change everybody.)

I liked what OP said in the last passage:

Maybe that means giving up useless number-chasing if communities can't survive past a certain scale. We could choose to focus on the slow work of developing relationships and trust, creating smaller but more sustainable groups of people who can support one another. Even now, within the hostile infrastructure of the modern internet, I think these things are still just barely possible.

I think as writers, we can be more forgiving of ourselves if writing a fic takes time, even a short one! Anything made with care usually takes time, and that includes breaks because you gotta let things marinate, plus we all have a ton of shit going on personally and culturally and we have to participate in that. We can (if we want to) read widely and try to learn more about the craft, honing our techniques and our ideas.

As community members we can prioritize making friends instead of followers. We can brainstorm with one another, help beta when we have the brainpower. We can gas each other up!! (To be clear I think this corner of tumblr is already excellent at these things, thankfully).

As readers we can choose to engage more often with ongoing fic instead of finished fic (I know the risks LOL), we can slow down and read more carefully and engage thoughtfully. We can let ourselves wait longer between updates. If we have the time and the patience we can seek out and read more niche fic authors and pairings!!

I think some of these we already do so well in this community, which is why I'm so grateful to be a part of this side of tumblr specifically lol. So some of this is just a thought exercise. And I'm sure there are more suggestions smarter people than I will have.

But I do see how capitalist pressures have invaded even this traditionally anticapitalist space and even in small measures, I wanna fight it back lol.

[secondhandsorrows]

Writing a Strong Premise That Checks All the Boxes

To begin, a strong story premise sets the foundation for an engaging narrative. It can be anywhere between a single sentence to a short paragraph -- I, myself, tend to write both ways and think slightly-longer premises are just fine. It depends on how to-the-point you want your premise to be for a quick summary, or if a longer one offers more context to have it make more sense. The goal is to communicate the heart of your story efficiently in simple terms without overwhelming the reader.

First, here's some examples of strong premises:

"A smart young girl, raised by uncaring parents, discovers she has magical powers which she uses to teach her tyrannical headmistress a lesson." - (Matilda, by Roald Dahl)

"A rehearsal is in progress when the actors are suddenly interrupted by six mysterious people, who demand to be put in a play. They are the characters of a story yet to be written." - (Six Characters in Search of An Author, by Luigi Pirandello)

"When world-renowned Harvard symbologist Robert Langdon is summoned to a Swiss research facility to analyze a mysterious symbol—seared into the chest of a murdered physicist—he discovers evidence of the unimaginable: the resurgence of an ancient secret brotherhood known as the Illuminati…the most powerful underground organization ever to walk the earth." - (Angels and Demons, by Dan Brown)

Not only is your story condensed to one sentence (or two, or three...), but it should, at the very least, be understandable enough to the potential reader, not only providing a short summary that hits the boxes we will discuss here, but also asking a main question that arises from the premise (such as: will the main character succeed in their plans, or will they fail in the longrun?). The idea of the main question is a whole new can of worms that makes me want to write a new post in of itself, so for now, let’s just get into the elements of a good premise.

Here are some points to ensure your premise is strong enough and compelling:

1. The Protagonist: Introduce the main character(s) and their primary goal or desire. Draw attention to what makes them more important and stand out from others. Keep in mind as you write: Why is this their story to tell… what makes them the prime candidate worth experiencing this story? 

2. The Antagonist / Opposition: You don’t necessarily have to dive into the villain and their motivations in your premise, if you have one, but you should mention the forces, people or not, that stand in the way of the protagonist. This opposition often drives conflict and tension.

2. External Conflict: Branching off from the last step, a strong premise often includes inherent conflict and high stakes. Identify what's at stake for your protagonist, what they want, and what obstacles they face in achieving their goals. What does the protagonist have to gain or lose? 

3. Internal Conflict: On the flip side of the prior step, also be sure consider the internal struggles or dilemmas the protagonist may face. This could be emotional, moral, or psychological challenges that add depth to their journeys. You could hint at potential character growth or change. 

4. Exploration of Themes: A good premise hints at the themes your story will explore. Think about the underlying messages or ideas your premise conveys. Also think about the emotional impact of your premise: does it evoke curiosity, excitement, fear, or empathy?

Remember that a strong premise isn't just about a catchy or original idea, but also about how well it sets the stage for the narrative to unfold. It should capture your audience's imagination and make them eager to read your story. 

Feedback can be a useful tool to determine whether or not your story’s premise is strong enough. Don’t be afraid to share your premise with others: get different perspectives to understand how your premise resonates with different readers, see if their expectations align with your own or challenge you to think outside of the box. Refine your premise through multiple iterations — expand through various plot points or characters for different outcomes. Open your mind to new possibilities until there’s one that really sticks with you. 

Also remember that your premise doesn’t have to contain every element or plot device of your story — that will be apparent in the finished product. For now, take the points that are most important, especially the ones that make you most excited to share this story in the first place. 

Sources linked!

[kyomunosaki]

A handful of celebrity chef memoirs I really liked

Plus a rant on Chang's work, and a way general audiences can enjoy memoir as a genre

I don't have all too much interesting to say about them, but they're all definitely worth a read. The audiobook versions are pretty amazing, especially since they're being read by the authors themselves.

Bourdain's excellence goes without saying, but Chang's memoir (he's the Momofuku/Ugly Delicious guy) is seriously underappreciated. I think I just saw the cover at a bookstore once, and was just weirdly drawn to it for some reason.

The Sisyphus imagery being evoked with a celebrity chef memoir seemed interesting, and the further elaboration in the beginning of the book, of it being Oddjob and I think? an allusion to the Allman Brothers Band, might be enough to draw some of you in.

It was especially interesting for me to read as both an Asian-American and Japanese (Just FYI Chang is Korean-American, he taught English in Japan for a while). A lot of the work discusses Asian identity in general, and talks about some of Chang's artistic work in relation to this within his restaurants, which is genuinely super interesting to learn about. There's a lot I think Asians can take away from this work, especially since I think "Confucianist" upbringings are somewhat common for us.

The order I experienced the three also worked out well, since there happen to be some through-lines and discussions of similar topics from different points in time and from different people. I don't really want to impart my own meaning onto these autobiographical works, but it gave me a lot to think about in general.

I honestly didn't expect so much from these works, since so much of what a celebrity chef is in the popular consciousness is "persona" in a sense. And more specifically, "exaggerated persona to make money," say Chang's typical public persona and like Gordon Ramsey. I don't think I can really draw the line with what is and what isn't persona or exaggerated with these works, nor am I qualified to do so, but at the very least: I can say the experiences presented in them are extremely human, and heartfelt, regardless of veracity to one's character or real events.

Genres like memoir are ultimately not a life-accurate recollection of various happenings, but just a work of writing created for public release, and I think that is important to always keep in mind. But regardless of that, they often still work as a work of narrative, and we can always look to it to try to understand it in some sense. Understand, not as in fact-check or comb through and try to guess what's real or who's actually "Bigfoot" in real life; but as any work of writing, just engage with it through good faith, and try to derive some personal meaning from it.

Also I should just make a note somewhere here, or else I'll get yelled at, but biography and history are still very important and noble pursuits; however, it should probably be left to academics lol. There is still definitely an element of historical interest to pick up on, but that should somewhat go without saying in the genre that is "memoirs." What I'm trying to get at is what other things this genre can provide for general audiences, and to just make a point to not worry too much about historical truth or accuracy of some portions.

TL;DR

Back to the works I mentioned first, would I recommend them? Definitely. I'd somewhat urge you to check them out in release order, alongside any other celebrity chef memoirs that interest you. It's really interesting to see the changes in the landscape and just changes in ideas over time, and does have some interesting history too. Just a lot of interesting stuff to read about.

Memoirs as a genre are pretty interesting, and I do think they can be enjoyed in a lot of ways. The typical way of just reading it as literal is great, but just thinking about the narrative of the works I think can have immense value as well, since that is kinda how they're written.

[pomegrnteseed]

Fandom observations

I only joined the DHr fandom via ao3 in the last year or so. My twt account went live in February. I'm a relative newbie.

I'm also an internet researcher and spend a lot of my time thinking about how people interact in negative ways online. To be clear: I am not participating in fandom as a researcher, nor do I research fandom. But I can't turn off my curiosity and I think my expertise in adjacent internet cultures offers some productive framing for making sense of the behaviours I'm seeing.

The following are some percolating reflections I've been mulling over for some time now. They're incomplete and shouldn't be read as a concrete analysis or a fix-it guide; instead, consider them pervasive thought clusters with fuzzy edges and an incomplete picture as I try to talk through my ideas to identify their core elements or themes.

I'm extrapolating from macro to micro here, and without any real map or guide to structure my thinking, I'm afraid we're left wading through this tangled web together. If, indeed, anyone at all finds this of interest. Which they likely will not. Nevertheless, it's a useful exercise. And so we begin.

On connection and community

In broad strokes, I find that communities tend to be sorted by geography, identity, or interest.

In fan communities, people can connect strongly over a special or niche interest that they don't get to indulge in deep discussion with others in other social spaces. They also connect in specific locations: fora, social media, conventions, etc. Despite the interest connecting fans, there's largely a celebration of diversity and similarities.

However, there's an impetus exhibited by a vocal minority to control or manage the boundaries of acceptable representation or experimentation within fandom. And when people stray from the emotionally and socially charged interpretations considered legitimate (which, to be clear, are inherently subjective because they are not part of the original published works and therefore are all vulnerable in their faithfulness to canon or headcanon depending on the reader), communication between fans (in-fandom and spanning fandoms) can break down.

Frankly, the lack of grace extended to others in these situations is really sad.

I'd love to see more compassionate reactions to behaviour or ideas that stray from our headcanons or interests - provided they aren't harmful.

And before anyone tries to argue that DHr is harmful because Draco was a young fascist, please remember that anything can happen in fiction: writers make the rules. Fandom offers the freedom to explore alternate realities within canon universes, or even alternate universes.

Similarly, if the author is clear in not promoting violence or harm in fiction, fictional worlds are a wonderful way to explore issues of violence, harm and issues of a taboo nature in different societies and cultures. There's a marked difference between exploring taboo and creating a manifesto endorsing harm. While some of the topics may be uncomfortable for you, your discomfort does not afford you license to censor others. As consenting adults, we can enjoy Icky Things and recognise that it only is okay to engage with and explore them in fiction or fantasy.

On digital publics and (intended) audiences

Social media platforms are spaces for various publics to interact. When we post, we have an idea of who the intended audience is. It may be out general followers, or a specific group of people. Sometimes, we post for ourselves as an archive of our ideas and experiences.

We're likely not thinking about the people outside of our perceived networks as reading or engaging with our posts, but because of the (mysterious) workings of the algorithm, often our posts end up in our spaces and we can feel that our territory or personal digital space is being encroached upon (usually because they misunderstand or misinterpret our community practices or artifacts; the recent mainstream news article about Manacled is one such example). These outsiders decontextualise our co-constructed worlds and make them vulnerable to (mis)interpretation due to a lack of or incomplete cultural knowledge.

It's not just external Publicness we need to be aware of, though. There's not one DHr fandom. There are many communities or networks of individuals who share some common interests, but there are numerous differences in what people will accept or not accept as DHr-compliant (or of personal interest). The lack of cohesive agreement as to what is acceptable means that we're vulnerable to misinterpretation or misalignment with others in our spheres.

And that's not even considering the networks of fandoms related to DHr under the wider HP umbrella.

On miscommunication, disagreement and shame

When these boundaries blur or are crossed, or contention arises, we often see an uptick in sub-tweeting, screenshotting or private quote retweeting (pqrting). This "behind their back in front of their face" approach is a wholly unproductive path to addressing ideas or behaviour we disagree with.

Shame is a powerful tool for gaining and maintaining social control. It can quite easily be weaponised and effectively impact the behaviours and beliefs of others. Shaming people's ideas, actions, or interests doesn't end them, it just obscures them or quietens them in mainstream spaces, while ostracizing them and opening up opportunities for escalation (particularly in negative behaviours) to occur.

Deciding whether to engage in conversation publicly or privately is a personal, and sometimes difficult decision. Public call-ins can model good practice and signal to others when behaviour might cross into unacceptable or unproductive areas not conducive to harmonious, diverse ranges in ideas and actions. Publicly addressing behaviour can lead to defensiveness, though, if people perceive the call-in as a shaming event, instead of a good faith intervention.

On the other hand, private conversations may lead to more in-depth and impactful discussion, but no one knows it's happening and so behaviour appears to go by unaddressed - and silence can be interpreted as complicity or agreement, despite the other functions on twt to signal agreement, e.g. Likes, Replies, Retweets.

One way to maybe mediate these tensions is to note your disagreement/issue and ask to talk about it more in private.

But sub-tweeting and pqrts, while signalling your opposition, create divides or Others, which only widens the distance between people and creates barriers to well-meaning discussion.

I'm also a firm believer in protecting your peace. Block those whose ideas or behaviour is misaligned - particularly those who build their identity on negative oppositional stances (I.e. antis). You'll not change their mind, they aren't open to alternate perspectives. Save your energy for celebrating and creating within your own networks of like-minded fans.

Shifting the ways we frame our interactions, with greater recognition of parasocial relationships, and a more expansive, welcoming approach of acceptability that replaces shame or cringe with curiosity and grace could help us combat some of the hardcoded structural issues in communication created or exacerbated by platform design and the lack of a central hub of activity, interaction, and easily accessible historical information on the networks and individuals we're engaging with.

[noisybastioncurse]

From Amateur to Pro: Raise Your Content Technique with Reliable Guest Posts

Guest posting has actually become an effective method for blog writers, online marketers, and organizations. It's not just about getting backlinks; it's about creating relationships, enhancing authority, and reaching brand-new audiences. If you're wanting to raise your content method, comprehending the ins and outs of guest posts is vital. This article will take you on a journey from newbie to pro in guest posting, breaking down everything you need to know.

What is Visitor Posting?

At its core, guest posting describes writing a short article for another site or blog within your industry. It's an equally helpful arrangement where the host site Click here gets fresh material and the guest contributor gains direct exposure and credibility.

Why Does Guest Posting Matter?

The significance of guest posting goes beyond mere link-building. Here are some compelling factors:

Boosts Authority: By contributing to trusted blog sites, you place yourself as an expert. Increases Traffic: Well-placed links can drive substantial traffic back to your site. Builds Relationships: Collaborating with other bloggers cultivates connections that could lead to more opportunities. Enhances SEO: Quality backlinks from reliable sites enhance your search engine rankings. Understanding Visitor Post Outreach

Guest post outreach is the process of getting in touch with website owners or editors to propose content collaboration. But how do you start that conversation?

Crafting the Perfect Outreach Email

Your outreach e-mail ought to be succinct yet compelling. Here are key elements to include:

Personalization: Address the recipient by name and discuss something specific about their site. Value Proposition: Clearly state what you can provide them. Sample Work: Include links to previous visitor posts or pertinent work. Common Errors in Outreach

Avoid these mistakes when connecting:

Sending generic emails Not following up Over-promoting yourself without showcasing value Guest Posting on Regional Blogs

When thinking about guest posting strategies, focusing on regional blogs can yield significant benefits for services targeting specific geographic areas.

Benefits of Regional Guest Posting Targeted Audience: Reach prospective consumers in your area. Community Engagement: Establish yourself as a regional authority and develop trust within your community. Improved Local SEO: Backlinks from regional blogs assist boost your exposure in local searches. Finding Regional Blogs for Guest Posting

To discover suitable local guest posting websites blog sites for guest posting:

Use Google search operators (e.g., "Submit a visitor post" + [your place]. Check social media platforms for regional influencers. Network at neighborhood events or online forums. Identifying High-Quality Guest Posting Sites

Not all guest posting sites

[viva0808]

The Role of a Digital Marketing Agency in Building Brand Authority Online

In today's hyper-competitive digital landscape, establishing brand authority isn't just beneficial—it's essential for sustainable business growth. Discover how partnering with the right digital marketing agency can transform your online presence and position your brand as an industry leader.

The Digital Authority Crisis Facing Modern Businesses

Have you ever wondered why some brands seem to dominate online discussions while others struggle to be heard? The difference often comes down to digital authority—that elusive quality that makes customers trust your expertise without question.

In 2025, establishing this authority has become increasingly challenging. Recent statistics from BrandWatch reveal that 78% of consumers research companies online before making purchasing decisions, up from 67% just two years ago. Yet simultaneously, consumer trust in online content has declined by 12% since 2023, creating a paradoxical situation where digital presence matters more than ever, but is harder to establish credibly.

For businesses on the Sunshine Coast and beyond, this presents both a challenge and an opportunity. Those who successfully build genuine authority online stand to capture significant market share, while those relying on outdated digital strategies risk fading into obscurity.

Throughout this article, we'll explore how a specialised digital marketing agency can help bridge this gap, transforming your digital presence from merely existing online to genuinely influencing your industry conversation.

What Truly Defines Brand Authority in the Digital Space?

Brand authority isn't just about visibility—it's about becoming the go-to resource in your industry. But what exactly does this look like in practice?

The Three Pillars of Digital Brand Authority

At its core, digital brand authority rests on three fundamental elements:

Expertise Demonstration: Consistently sharing valuable, insightful content that showcases your deep understanding of your industry.

Trust Signals: Building credibility through social proof, transparent practices, and consistent messaging across all digital touchpoints.

Engagement Depth: Creating meaningful interactions with your audience that go beyond superficial metrics.

The Australian Digital Marketing Institute reported that businesses demonstrating strong authority in these three areas saw a 34% higher customer retention rate and 47% higher customer lifetime value compared to competitors.

But here's the challenge—establishing authority requires specialised knowledge across multiple digital disciplines. This is precisely where a digital marketing agency sunshine coast can provide transformative value.

Why Most DIY Brand Authority Strategies Fall Short

Many business owners begin with internal attempts to build authority online. While admirable, this approach often delivers disappointing results for several reasons:

Inconsistency Issues

Building authority requires constant, consistent presence—something challenging to maintain when balancing other business priorities. Marketing agency studies show that 64% of small businesses post to their blogs less than monthly, severely limiting their authority-building potential.

Fragmented Expertise

Digital marketing encompasses numerous specialised disciplines—SEO, content strategy, social media engagement, technical optimisation, and more. Few in-house teams possess expertise across all these domains.

Inability to Scale

As your authority grows, so too should your digital marketing efforts. The capacity to scale content production, engagement, and measurement often becomes a bottleneck for in-house teams.

The best part? Recognising these limitations is the first step toward addressing them effectively through strategic partnerships.

7 Ways a Digital Marketing Agency Transforms Your Brand Authority

Working with an experienced digital marketing company provides multiple pathways to enhanced brand authority. Here are the most impactful:

1. Data-Driven Strategy Development

Rather than relying on intuition, professional agencies begin with comprehensive competitive analysis and audience research. Fresh data from Digital Strategy Today shows that businesses using data-backed strategies achieve ROI 2.7x higher than those using intuition-based approaches.

A quality digital marketing agency will:

Conduct a thorough competitor authority analysis

Identify specific authority gaps and opportunities

Create measurable authority-building objectives

Develop customised strategies aligned with your business goals

2. Authority-Centered Content Creation

Content remains the foundation of digital authority, but not all content contributes equally to your authority positioning.

"Authority content doesn't just share information—it reshapes how your audience thinks about industry challenges."

In 2025, effective authority content has evolved significantly. The latest Content Marketing Institute research reveals that in-depth, research-backed content pieces between 1,500-2,500 words receive 96% more backlinks than shorter content—a key authority signal to search engines.

3. Technical SEO Alignment

While compelling content captures human attention, technical optimisation ensures search engines properly recognise and reward your authority. A skilled digital marketing agency Sunshine Coast will:

Implement proper schema markup to help search engines understand your content context

Optimise site architecture to emphasize expertise areas

Create appropriate topical clusters, reinforcing subject matter expertise

Address technical issues that may undermine perceived authority

4. Strategic Authority Distribution

Creating excellent content is only half the battle—strategic distribution is equally crucial for authority building.

"Authority isn't built in isolation—it requires strategic amplification across channels where your audience already exists."

Professional digital marketing agencies develop comprehensive distribution strategies including:

Industry publication partnerships

Guest contribution opportunities

Podcast and webinar appearances

Strategic social platform promotion

5. Authority-Building Link Development

Despite many changes in search algorithms, quality backlinks remain powerful external validation signals. The 2025 SEMrush Ranking Factors study confirms that websites with strong, relevant link profiles are 3.2x more likely to rank for competitive terms.

Professional agencies develop sustainable link-building strategies focused on:

Creating genuinely linkable content assets

Building relationships with industry publishers

Identifying unlinked brand mentions

Guest contribution opportunities

6. Reputation Management Integration

Online reputation directly impacts perceived authority. According to recent TrustPilot research, 89% of consumers read reviews before making purchase decisions, and 79% trust online reviews as much as personal recommendations.

A comprehensive digital marketing approach integrates reputation management by:

Monitoring brand mentions across the digital landscape

Developing response protocols for negative feedback

Amplifying positive customer experiences

Creating systems to generate authentic reviews

7. Performance Measurement & Optimisation

What separates exceptional digital marketing Sunshine Coast providers from average ones is their commitment to measurement and continuous improvement.

Modern authority building requires tracking multiple metrics:

Organic visibility for authority topics

Content engagement metrics

Brand mention sentiment

Conversion impact of authority content

Citation and reference frequency

Selecting the Right Digital Marketing Partner for Authority Building

Not all digital marketing agencies are equally equipped to build genuine brand authority. When evaluating potential partners on the Sunshine Coast or elsewhere, consider these key factors:

Industry Experience Depth

Has the agency worked with businesses in your specific sector? Industry familiarity allows for more targeted authority positioning strategies.

Proven Authority Results

Request case studies specifically focused on authority building, not just traffic or lead generation.

Comprehensive Capability Set

Authority building requires multiple specialised skills—ensure your potential partner offers all necessary services rather than excelling in just one or two areas.

Clear Authority Measurement Approach

How will the agency measure progress toward authority goals? Look for partners who define clear KPIs beyond basic metrics.

Common Pitfalls in Agency-Led Authority Building

While partnering with a marketing agency Sunshine Coast can dramatically accelerate authority development, be aware of these potential challenges:

Misaligned Authority Positioning

Some agencies may push for positioning that generates traffic but doesn't align with your actual business strengths or strategic direction.

Vanity Metric Focus

Beware of agencies that emphasise impressive-sounding metrics that don't translate to business impact.

Cookie-Cutter Approaches

True authority development requires customised strategies reflecting your unique business attributes, not standardised templates.

Transform Your Digital Presence with Viva Digital

In today's complex digital landscape, building genuine authority requires specialised expertise, consistent execution, and strategic guidance. As the leading digital marketing agency sunshine coast, Viva Digital combines deep industry knowledge with cutting-edge strategies to transform how your audience perceives your brand.

Our comprehensive authority-building programs integrate content strategy, technical optimisation, and strategic amplification to position your business as the definitive industry resource.

Don't let your expertise remain hidden while competitors capture market mindshare. Contact Viva Digital today to begin your authority transformation journey with the Sunshine Coast's premier digital marketing partner.

Your audience is searching for authoritative guidance—make sure they find you first.

[thisisablogforyouthlit]

I Am Farmer: Growing an Environmental Movement in Cameroon by Baptiste & Miranda Paul, Art by Elizabeth Zunon

This informative nonfiction picture book details the life of Farmer Tantoh, a Cameroonian man who changed the water and farming infrastructure of the local villages in his nation and his efforts to continue his work. As a result of his efforts, these villages thrive and he holds the title of Farmer with pride.

This book was recommended to me through Libby when I was looking for juvenile nonfiction books online. This one had no holds, which meant I could renew it if need be, and seemed like a great match. In all honesty, it was the most convenient digital book for me to choose and it ended up being a great book. This book was chosen to fulfill the informational category requirement.

The images and illustrations in this book were unique and so entertaining with the use of mixed media done by the contributors. The two authors took all the photos, which populate the beginning and end of the book to add more context and visuals to exactly what Farmer Tantoh accomplished. The illustrator, Zunon, used real-life photos of crops and nature in a form of collage alongside watercolor and colored pencils, and the result is this almost chunky feel with bright blockings of colors with the illustrations and the details of the images being cut into fun shapes to represent something adjacent to the image or to simply be itself. The stylization used with this collage method is incredibly fun, like how the water is this multi-colored stone instead of an actual image of water like some of the other elements of the illustrations. I am such a fan of this almost selective collage style used by Zunon and can't wait to find more art by this illustrator.

The setting in this book is incredible important, with how drastic of changes Farmer Tantoh made in order to make the villages more agriculturally viable and accessible to clean water. Establishing on the opening pages what northwestern Cameroon is like, full of life and yet lacking something crucial. And then at the end showing the same landscape, still alive and green, but now full of people and agriculture. This dichotomy of the before and after of Father Tantoh's impact, while the region never lacked life and greenery, clearly shows how important his work affected said region with the sheer amount of people and crops present.

The style and language used in the writing is poignant and exact, necessary for a nonfiction piece, but incredibly important when remembering this is a book for children. Not cutting corners and using the accurate words to describe the events is refreshing; like how Farmer Tantoh "contracts typhoid" (Paul & Paul, 2019, p. 23) rather than simplifying it to something like "gets sick." Using the phrases and terms of the people in these villages is also a way to present to these younger audiences the languages of faraway places without overwhelming them. A phrase here and there is digestible but also important acclimating children with different languages. A final point on only referring to Farmer Tantoh with his title of "Farmer" following him claiming that name is also such an important detail.

I gave this book 4 stars on StoryGraph for its engaging story about one man's impact on his region and the inspiring life he lives. I would definitely recommend this book regardless of the season, but I think it'd be especially impactful alongside a discussion of Earth Day or subsequent matters.

References:

Paul, B. & Paul, M. (2019). I am farmer: growing an environmental movement in cameroon (E. Zunon, Illus.). Millbrook Press.

[nimbusconsultancy]

Cultural Etiquette in Saudi Business: How to Avoid Common Pitfalls During Business Incorporation? 

Business incorporation in Saudi Arabia offers substantial opportunities, but understanding and respecting the nation's cultural etiquette is important to maintain cordial relationships with the locals. 

Saudi Arabia's unique blend of tradition and modernity requires foreign investors to navigate its business landscape with cultural sensitivity and awareness. This post outlines key aspects of Saudi business culture and common pitfalls to avoid when incorporating a company in the Kingdom. 

UNDERSTANDING CULTURAL ETIQUETTES IN SAUDI ARABIA 

Saudi Arabia's business culture is deeply rooted in Islamic traditions and societal norms. Recognizing these cultural elements is essential for building successful business relationships. 

Islamic Influence: Islam plays a central role in daily life, influencing business practices, working hours, and social interactions. For instance, businesses pause for prayer times, and the holy month of Ramadan involves fasting during daylight hours, affecting work schedules. 

Personal Relationships: Building trust through personal relationships is often required for successful business dealings. Investing time in getting to know potential partners beyond formal meetings is a good way to foster trust and credibility among business connections. 

- Common Pitfalls During Business Setup in Saudi Arabia and How to Avoid Them 

Navigating the incorporation process requires awareness of potential challenges and given below are a few ways in which you can do that. 

Insufficient Market Research: Before entering the Saudi market, conduct comprehensive research to understand local demand, competition, and consumer behavior. Tailoring products or services to align with cultural preferences can enhance acceptance. 

Choosing the Wrong Business Structure: Selecting an inappropriate legal structure can lead to legal and financial complications. Consider factors like liability, taxation, and ownership when deciding between options such as Limited Liability Company (LLC) or Joint Stock Company. 

Neglecting Licensing and Permits: Operating without the necessary licenses can result in penalties. Engage with the Ministry of Commerce and Investment and other relevant authorities to ensure compliance with all regulatory requirements. 

Ignoring Tax Obligations: Understanding the tax landscape, including Value Added Tax (VAT) and zakat (a form of almsgiving), is essential. Non-compliance can lead to fines and legal issues. 

Overlooking Saudization Policies: The government mandates the employment of a certain percentage of Saudi nationals. Developing a recruitment strategy that aligns with these policies is crucial to avoid sanctions. 

- Understanding Business Etiquette and Practices 

Adhering to local business etiquette fosters respect and smooth interactions. Here are a few things you should take care of while conducting business operations in Saudi Arabia. 

Proper Attire: Traditional attire is prevalent, with men wearing the thobe and women the abaya. While Western business attire is acceptable in some settings, dressing appropriately is advisable. Recent mandates have reinforced traditional dress codes among officials and public servants.  

Communication Style: Indirect communication is common. Reading between the lines and being attentive to non-verbal cues can aid understanding. 

Meeting Protocol: Punctuality is appreciated, but meetings may not start promptly. Initial meetings often focus on relationship-building rather than direct business discussions. Offering refreshments and engaging in light conversation before delving into business matters is customary.  

- Legal and Administrative Considerations 

Understanding the legal framework ensures a smoother incorporation process: 

Documentation: Ensure all documents are authenticated and translated into Arabic. Accurate and complete documentation expedites approvals and reduces delays. 

Local Sponsorship: Certain business activities require a local partner or sponsor. Choosing a trustworthy and compatible partner is vital for operational success. 

Compliance with Anti-Concealment Laws: Engaging in illegal sponsorship arrangements can lead to severe penalties, including imprisonment and fines. Adhering strictly to legal requirements is non-negotiable.  

- Understanding and Adapting to Cultural Sensitivity 

Demonstrating cultural awareness enhances business relationships. Make sure that you do the following things. 

Respect Religious Practices: Being mindful of prayer times, fasting periods, and religious holidays shows respect and facilitates smoother interactions. 

Gender Interactions: While reforms have increased women's participation in business, it's important to be aware of and respect prevailing norms regarding gender interactions. 

Language Considerations: Arabic is the official language. While many professionals speak English, providing translated materials and employing interpreters when necessary can bridge communication gaps. 

- Practical Steps for Successful Incorporation 

To ensure a seamless incorporation process, you should: 

Engage Local Expertise: Consulting with local legal and business advisors can provide invaluable insights into the regulatory environment and cultural nuances. 

Develop a Robust Business Plan: A detailed plan that considers market entry strategies, financial projections, and compliance measures demonstrates commitment and preparedness. 

Leverage Government Resources: Utilize services offered by the Saudi Arabian General Investment Authority (SAGIA) and other governmental bodies dedicated to supporting foreign investors. 

- Building Sustainable Relationships 

Long-term success hinges on the quality of relationships established. Pay attention to the following things. 

Networking: Participate in local business events and industry associations to expand your professional network. 

Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR): Engaging in CSR activities that align with local values can enhance your company's reputation and demonstrate a commitment to the community. 

Continuous Learning: Stay informed about cultural trends, legal changes, and economic developments to adapt your strategies accordingly. 

Understand the Saudi Culture for Good Reputation 

A smooth and proper business incorporation in Saudi Arabia demands a deep understanding of the cultural landscape and a commitment to building strong relationships. Navigating the Saudi business environment successfully means adapting to cultural norms and forging long-term partnerships. 

By understanding hierarchical business structures, respecting religious traditions, and engaging in trust-building practices, foreign investors can establish themselves as credible and respected business partners. 

Ultimately, Saudi Arabia’s evolving market presents immense opportunities for those who approach it with cultural awareness, regulatory diligence, and strategic vision. With the right preparation, businesses can thrive in one of the fastest-growing economies in the world. 

[marketingprofitmedia]

AI Member Review – Builds Profitable Communities in 60 Seconds

Welcome to my AI Member Review. Community-building has become an essential aspect of business growth, audience engagement, and brand development. Yet, the time and effort required to create and maintain an active community with high-quality content, engaging activities, and a paying membership base often deter entrepreneurs and businesses.

This is where AI Member steps in, an innovative platform that allows users to effortlessly build gamified communities filled with content, videos, quizzes, infographics, posts, threads, and much more in any niche, all in less than 60 seconds, without needing to pay for ads or create content themselves.

In this detailed review, we will explore AI Member’s core features, its benefits, how it works, and its potential impact on community building, particularly for entrepreneurs, influencers, and business owners. We will also assess its pros, cons, and whether it truly delivers on its promise of building thriving online communities with minimal effort.

What Is AI Member?

AI Member is an AI-driven software designed to automate the creation of online communities. It incorporates gamification elements to keep users engaged, generates high-quality content, and helps users monetize their communities without requiring them to create content manually or spend money on advertising.

With AI Member, users can set up niche-specific communities that include discussion threads, video content, quizzes, and infographics, ensuring a highly interactive user experience. The software claims to attract thousands of hyper-active paying members, making it an attractive solution for entrepreneurs, course creators, and businesses looking to expand their audience.

AI Member Review: Overview of Product

Product Creator: Seun Ogundele

Product: AI Member

Launch Date: 2025-Feb-12

Launch Time: 10:00 EST

Front-End Price: $17 (One-time payment)

Official Site: Click Here To Visit Official Salespage

Product Type: Tools and Software

Support: Effective and Friendly Response

Recommended: Highly Recommended

Bonuses: YES, Huge Bonuses

Skill Level Required: All Levels

Discount Coupon: Use Code “AIM20OFF” for 20% off or “AIM5OFF” for $5 off (Full Funnel)

Refund: YES, 30 Days Money-Back Guarantee

AI Member Review: About Authors

Meet Seun Ogundele, the brilliant inventor of AI Member. Seun’s innovative spirit and forward-thinking attitude to technology have transformed the area of software development with his pioneering work. Seun has created a sophisticated platform that enables users to easily build “Gamified” Communities using the power of artificial intelligence.

Check out some of his previous successful projects, including AzonKDP, Qai App, HeyBooks, AI Gigz Hub, GamPAL, WP Genie, Artisia, AvaTalk, RoboCHAT, ZapAI, Kustomizee, GoBuildr, FlowCart, AI Assist, SendALL, ScribAI, and SwipeFunnel, and many others.

AI Member Review: Key Features of AI Member

Build Profitable Communities in 60 Seconds: Leverage AI technology to instantly create thriving, passion-driven communities that auto-engage, auto-grow, and auto-monetize for you.

Gamification for Viral Growth: Boost engagement and supercharge your community’s growth with leaderboards, points, and referral rewards that turn every member into a recruiter.

No Tech Skills? No Problem: AI Member makes everything simple with a drag-and-drop interface, automated tools, and zero coding required. Anyone can use it!

Unlimited Potential in Any Niche: Whether it’s fitness, cooking, crypto, or coaching, AI Member adapt to your passion, making it easy to dominate any market.

No Complicated Setup – Get Up and Running In 2 Minutes

Say Goodbye to Email Marketing Woes: No more spam filters or account bans. With community notifications, reach 100% of your audience instantly, every time.

AI-Driven Engagement: Let AI auto-post content, reply to members, and generate buzz 24/7 keeping your community active and lively without you lifting a finger.

Sell Courses, Products & Services Directly: Monetize instantly by offering HD video courses, digital products, or high-ticket coaching directly within your community no extra tools are required.

30-Day Money-Back Guarantee: Test AI Member risk-free. If you’re not thrilled, we’ll refund every penny no questions asked.

Flip Communities for Quick $997 Paydays: Build and sell AI-powered communities to clients or buyers eager to skip the hard work of creating an entirely new income stream.

Built-In AI Content Generator: Create engaging posts, courses, and threads instantly letting AI handle the heavy lifting while you focus on scaling your income.

Save $$$ on Hosting & API Fees: Forget costly monthly subscriptions! AI Member includes blazing-fast hosting and all essential features at no additional cost.

Never pay monthly for any other services ever again, pay once, and use forever

Agency License Included: Offer AI Member as a service to clients, build their communities, and charge premium rates with zero hidden costs.

Dominate the Competition: Outrank competitors on Google, clone their strategies, and turn their success into your profit.

30 Days Money Back Guarantee: There is zero risk for you. You get to try AI Member for 30 days and if for any reason you don’t think it’s not worth its weight in gold Just send us a message, and we will process your refund

AI Member Review: How Does It Work?

AI can build a successful gamified community with just 3 clicks and attract many paying members from any niche or industry without the need to hire anyone.

Step #1: Enter A Keyword Or A Niche

Choose any niche you like, by simply typing it inside AI Member dashboard or select from our existing niches.

Step #1: Customize with Just a Few Clicks

Use the drag-and-drop editor to quickly make any changes you need. No coding or design skills are required. Customize in minutes and make it your own.

Step #1: Hit Publish & Gamify

AI Handles Everything! Your Community Instantly Grows, Engages & Sells For You! From here, AI will take over, and turn your website into a thriving and competitive community with Gamification technology that will attract thousands of paying members.

Step #1: Sales Roll In Automatically

Nurture your community with AI-driven engagement, turning it into a sales engine that grows organically. By fostering member interactions and encouraging testimonials, your products gain momentum through social validation, driving sales without the need for hard promotion efforts.

AI Member Review: Benefits of AI Member

Create Thriving Communities in 60 Seconds Flat No Experience Needed!

AI That Grows Your Community While You Sleep!

Gamification That Fuels Unstoppable Viral Growth!

Instant Monetization: Turn Your Passion Into Profits!

AI-Generated Content That Keeps Your Community Buzzing!

Built-In AI Course Creator That Makes You an Instant Expert!

Sell Physical Products & Consultations To Your Members

Set Up Live Events & Webinars For Members

Pre-Load Your Community With Ai-Generated Posts, Comments, And “Members”

Sell Communities for $997+ Without Breaking a Sweat!

Viral Referral Systems That Explode Growth Instantly!

Live Chat & Private DMs Members Of Your Community

Video & Voice Message Among Members

Keep Members Engaged & Dominate Search Rankings with AI-Powered Blogs!

Free Hosting That Saves You Thousands!

AI-Powered Analytics to Turbocharge Your Growth!

No More Spam Filters Your Messages Reach 100% of Your Audience!

100% Newbie-Friendly: Zero Tech Skills Required!”

Agency License Included Sell Communities to Clients for Big Bucks!

30 Days Money Back Guarantee

AI Member Review: Who Should Use It?

Product Creators

Affiliate Marketers

eCom Store Owners

Blog Owners

CPA Marketers

Video Marketers

Artists/Content Creators

Personal Brands

Freelancers

And Many Others

AI Member Review: OTO’s And Pricing

Add My Bundle Coupon Code “AIM20OFF″ – For 20% Off Any Funnel OTO Below

Front End Price: AI Member ($17)

OTO1: AI Member Unlimited ($67)

OTO2: AI Member Done For You ($297)

OTO3: AI Member Automation ($47)

OTO4: AI Member Income Booster ($27)

OTO5: AI Member Limitless Traffic ($97)

OTO6: AI Member Automated $10k Profits ($67)

OTO7: AI Member Mobile Payday ($47)

OTO8: AI Member Reseller ($197)

OTO9: AI Member DFY Profit Site ($47)

AI Member Review: Money Back Guarantee

Try Out AI Member RISK FREE For 30 Days With Our Money Back Guarantee

We have trusted our app for a year so we know for certain it functions correctly. Users have used the programme for one complete year and it involves more than individual usage. Having said that I comprehend your reluctance because you don’t know me. Further I assure you’re entirely welcome to take this course of action. The level of doubt is normal but I have the ability to help you all the same.

You can now access AI Member through the terms presented. Use our AI Member free of charge with its entire set of features and contact our 24/7 support if you decide the software lacks value so we return all your money. This offer provides no conditions for inquiries. Getting an AI Member is the most unfavourable outcome which leaves you without any financial profit. AI Member membership funds will be reimbursed in full to each customer.

AI Member Review: Pros and Cons

Pros:

AI-powered content generation and engagement tools

No need for manual content creation

Fast and easy setup within 60 seconds

Multiple monetization options

High engagement rates with gamification features

Cost-effective, No need for ad spend

Cons:

Requires a one-time Payment.

Requires stable internet connection.

Nothing wrong with it, it works perfectly!

My Own Customized Exclusive VIP Bonus Bundle

***How To Claim These Bonuses***

Step #1:

Complete your purchase of the AI Member: My Special Unique Bonus Bundle will be visible on your access page as an Affiliate Bonus Button on WarriorPlus immediately after purchase. And before ending my honest, I told you that I would give you my very own unique PFTSES formula for Free.

Step #2:

Send the proof of purchase to my e-mail “support@marketingprofitmedia.com” (Then I’ll manually Deliver it for you in 24 HOURS).

AI Member Free Premium Bonuses

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s)

Q. Do I need any experience to get started?

None, all you need is just an internet connection. And you’re good to go

Q. Is there any monthly cost?

Depends, If you act now, NONE. But if you wait, you might end up paying $997/mo It’s up to you.

Q. How long does it take to make money?

Our average member made their first sale the same day they got access to  AI Member.

Q. Do I need to purchase anything else for it to work?

Nop, AI Member is the complete thing. You get everything you need to make it work. Nothing is left behind.

Q. What if I failed?

While that is unlikely, we removed all the risk for you. If you tried AI Member and failed, we will refund you every cent you paid.

Q. How can I get started?

Awesome, I like your excitement, All you have to do is click any of the buy buttons on the page, and secure your copy of AI Member at a one-time fee.

My Recommendation

AI Member transforms community development by providing an all-in-one automated solution that removes the need for manual content generation, audience interaction, and advertising. Its AI-powered automation, gamification features, and monetization capabilities make it a compelling choice for entrepreneurs, marketers, and corporations looking to establish highly engaging online communities.

However, like with any AI-powered platform, some human changes may be required to ensure content is consistent with company values and audience expectations. If you’re searching for a simple approach to start and build a strong online community, AI Member is well worth exploring.

>>> Click Here To Get Instant Access AI Member Now <<<

Check Out My Previous Reviews: Rigel App Review, FoodAI Studio Review, AI Live School Builder Review, Healix AI Review, and $500 Google Payday Review.

Thank for reading my “AI Member Review” till the end. Hope it will help you to make purchase decision perfectly.

[unfilteredfantasies]

💀 Come with Me by Ronald Malfi 💀

Come with Me by Ronald Malfi is a psychological horror/thriller novel following a dude that as he is left devastated upon his wife’s passing, goes through her things to cope with the loss. However what he discovers sends him on an enigmatic quest to uncover what she was involved in in the weeks leading up to her death.

Come with Me is one of the best psychological thrillers that I have read in years, possibly ever. It’s absolutely bloody brilliant. There are many, many things that I could discuss and gush about, or just intellectually-discourse prattle about, but the mystery of this narrative and its characters is what truly makes it a breathtakingly unstoppable reading experience. So… I will try to keep my gushing to the main points as to why you have to get off your ass and read it.

The story starts with an incredible tragedy that is both fast-paced yet languid. For the first few chapters, we get to learn about the man who is grieving and Malfi takes his time, in a manner of speaking, of acclimating the reader to one of the main characters. Initially, I thought I would quit reading because the pacing felt a bit too slow for me. Yet, as I learned more about Aaron and his pain and love, the more curious and impacted I became by his interest in unravelling the unknown curiosities concerning his wife. When did I start to essentially salivate to learn more and more, I can’t tell you. The book sneak-attacked me in such a fine and insidious manner that I was addicted like a heroin addict and it got to the point where I could not stop reading, even when I had to for stupid things like work and sleep. That special sort of sentiment is one of the finest parts about this book.

The second thing that had me so engrossingly gripped was this sublime notion of how loss can drive us unknowingly mad. Like the pacing, it slithers into us and before we understand that what we feel is grief, we’re being haunted by the people we lost and even ourselves. This is something that I contemplated from start to finish, and while I allowed my mind to put it at rest occasionally, Come With Me has an affecting way of bringing this thought back to the surface and it lingers, like the burn of a good whiskey. When the loss is the love of your life that burn can feel like a never-ending forest fire.

The writing of Come With Me is analytical and intellectual, emotionally cerebral, yet magnificently accessible. Aaron is a translator of Japanese literature, so his vernacular and way of speaking is definitely that of a highly-educated and well-read person, but without the pretentiousness and pomp one would expect from such a position. For my kind of brain, in particular, that was another factor that completely engaged my attention. I love smart books and authors that use smart words to tell a dark, fucked-up story, but when they do it in a satisfying spread across the book rather than in unending streams of regurgitation, if that makes any realm of sense. Malfi’s brilliant manner of actually writing the words and sentences to compose this story from Aaron’s perspective was wondrously intimate and voyeuristically vulnerable, and it complements every other element in the book quite sharply by helping those things to thrive and exist, and also holding them together in a mosaic of so much intensity. At-times I felt like a devastated scopophiliac as this dude unloaded all of the complex emotions he had about his wife into the air.

If none that interests you, then maybe this will: a man unearths cryptic confidences about his wife, which sends him on a literal journey across state lines to figure out just who the hell it was that he loved and married. With each new revelation, Aaron simultaneously loses and gains something vital. The deeper he dives, the more sinister and more perplexing his grief becomes. As a psychological thriller, this straightforward essence masterfully captures that notion of the word “thriller.” While exhibiting an uncomfortable and tragic story, it’s exhilarating, inviting, so meticulously mysterious and just so fucking goooood. If you like to read books and you like books that are exciting in multi-faceted ways, this is the good book for you.

Come With Me is a phenomenal fucking novel. It has placed Ronald Malfi just about at the top of my Favourite Authors list for the psychological thriller and horror genres. It blew my mind and left me in contemplative awe for so many days afterwards. I still randomly think about Aaron and his wife and her secrets from time to time while I’m doing mundane things around the house because at some point the book became such a strong part of me, and I don’t see that connection going away anytime soon. Or ever. Books that can do this, they are powerful stuff, chums. Powerful. Go read it.

Publisher: Titan Books (paperback) Genre: Horror, Psychological Thriller Release: July 2021 Content Warnings: Sexism. Misogyny. Mass shooting. Death of loved one. Deaths of women. Domestic and child abuse. Graphic violence. Cursing.