#pep reads 📚

[peppertoastuniverse]

pep reads: fluffiest fluff edition

I've just been CONSUMING so many jjk fanfics... here are the softest fluffiest fic recommendations since I think we all need it right now. This list is in no particular order – there's so many talented writers out there! These ones just made me MELT extra hard. Mostly no smut, I just needed to be held.

gojo satoru

☆ only you by Kaiseriin [A03: mini series] [status: unknown] [Cursed speech!reader] Other than Gojo, not many people understand the sign language you use to communicate as a cursed speech user. When some students from Kyoto arrive, one tries to learn so he can get closer to you.

☆ summer skies, winter lies by miyaspudding [A03: long fic!][status: ongoing]

"how cruel was fate? how much had he sinned in his past life, for the woman he loved to belong to his best friend? how little did god love him?"

in which gojo satoru learns that emotions are not weaknesses but consolations; and geto suguru realizes that he's always been a little too late for everything. because the furthest distance is an inch away, and the furthest thing from truth is "just friends".

☆best of luck. by reinerispretty [A03: one shot! part of a mini series] [status: unknown] In which Gojo Satoru shows up unannounced, twice.

☆Ah, you were both equally idiotic by Hiroka [A03: mini series] [status: unknown]

4 times others realized something was going on between Gojo and you, and 0 times you both realized it.

[Oneshots from the Old Beats Cinematic Universe]

☆ For A God, Shopping Is a New Adventure by Bun_sun [AO3] [status: on going!] [Baker!reader]

“Would you like anything else?” “Actually, yeah.” He flashes you a grin that only promises trouble, pushing his sunglasses down with a way too exaggerated flirty expression. “Can I get your number too?” “Haha, really funny Gojo. Now, I have more clients so...” But he's already getting his phone out, as if he hasn't listened to a single word you've said. “...Oh, you're for real.” ~ ~ ~ ~ Reader owns a small cafe with their own baked goods. Gojo comes in one day, and absolutely falls in love with their pastries (and with them).

☆ I Want to Kiss You / キスしたい by arminsumi [A03][status: unknown]

You and Satoru falling in love despite a language barrier.

You've come to visit Japan to meet these two boys you met online. Though Satoru can't speak English and you can't speak Japanese, the two of you still fall in love. There's seems to be romantic tension between you and Suguru, too.

geto suguru

it's so hard to find suguru fics without him being used as a plot device for gojo

☆ gentle glow / deep thought by waffiez [AO3: one shot] [status: completed] "I thought about you, you know." Despite the softness of his voice, it cut through the otherwise silent atmosphere profoundly and made your heart skip a beat. "Is that so?" "It is." ☆☆☆ in which you awake to your best friend suguru asleep at the edge of your bed, having returned from a lengthy mission and only really wanting to see you.

☆ unnamed drabble by @twentyfivemiceinatrenchcoat [tumblr: drabble] [status: completed]

comfy fluff w sleepy needy sugu <33)

☆ Wash It Away by @shadowsandshapes [A03/tumblr: drabble][status: completed]

Sometimes you forget Geto is just a guy. But then he shows a sense of vulnerability that surprises you. After a particularly emotionally draining battle, you run him a warm bath and take care of his aches. ☆ Wisteria and Ciabatta by @hayakawalove [A03/tumblr: mini fic!][status: completed, chapter 2 has smut!]

Traveling merchant Suguru has led a relatively tame life thus far. Growing his flowers, baking his bread. One day, when he ventures out further than normal he comes across something more beautiful than all the flowers in the world. You. ☆ the paint doesn't move the way the light reflects by @twentyfivemiceinatrenchcoat [tumblr: long oneshot!] [status: completed]

bonus!

☆ Digest Your Feelings (DYF) – First Years! by @whalesforhands [A03/tumblr: part of a longer series of fics] [status: completed] new classmates, new life, new friends(?). a look into the life of the dyf au characters in their first year.

[thatonegrimm]

So, we all know who the divas are in the saja boys, but which ones would give you the absolute WORST hair colour to try and think it would be absolutely perfect?

This is perfect LMAO 😭 After I saw this, I was like “oh no—Romance is totally first.” 💅 He would hand you the brightest box dye in existence and call it a “life-changing moment.”

Who Would Give You the Worst Hair Color (and Think It’s Perfect)

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

💋 Romance

Gives you: Fire engine red with chunky black streaks and glitter scalp gel. Why: He saw it on Pinterest once. But like… from 2011.

“It’s edgy. It’s dangerous. It screams ‘kiss me or fear me.’”

No, Romance. It screams “Hot Topic sale bin.”

He means well, truly—but the second you say “I want a change,” he acts like he’s styling a music video.

He’ll pick a color based on your “aura.” Not your skin tone. Not your undertones. Just the vibe. You’ll look like a color-coded warning sign and he’ll cry at how “powerful” it is.

Confidence level: 100% Taste level: ??? Accountability: “I take full credit for this masterpiece.” Would defend it forever.

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

🔥 Baby

Gives you: Neon green. With orange tips. And possibly glow-in-the-dark streaks. Why: “It looks cool in the dark.” (It does not.)

He’s not trying to ruin your look—he just picks colors based on instinct and impulse.

“What if you matched the inside of a toxic soda bottle?” “What if your hair… was lava?”

He thinks it’s iconic. You look like a melted marker.

Bonus: He will dye half of his own hair to match you and claim it's couple goals.

Confidence level: “You’re a walking Supernova.” Taste level: “I don’t believe in limits.” Would absolutely post you on TikTok with a thirst trap song and zero shame.

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

📚 Mystery

Gives you: Ash grey, storm blue, or void-black, dyed in a pattern that accidentally looks like runes.

Why: He says it “called to him.” That’s not comforting.

He won’t explain what color it is. You’ll only know when it’s already in your hair. He mixes tones like potions. You ask what brand he used and he says “...moonlight.”

The result? Honestly… kind of stunning, but your hair now whispers at night.

Confidence level: Low volume, high intent. Taste level: Immaculate, if you survive. You look amazing, but also haunted.

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

💪 Abby

Gives you: Whatever box dye says “natural brown” but somehow it turns orange.

Why: He wanted to keep it “simple.” He tried to match your eyebrows. You don’t know how it went so wrong.

“It said chocolate! This looks like rust!”

He feels horrible about it. Tries to fix it with a conditioning mask and a pep talk. You forgive him because he literally cries and offers to wear a wig in solidarity.

Confidence level: “I read the instructions twice.” Taste level: Tragically sincere. Would help you re-dye it at 2am with the gentlest hands and snacks.

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

🧿 Jinu

Gives you: Lavender, with cool silver undertones… for winter. Except it's June.

Why: He read three beauty blogs, printed out swatches, and made a chart. Unfortunately, he over-calculated and now you look like a cursed anime princess on laundry day.

“This technically complements your aura and birth chart.”

“Jinu, my roots are blue.”

“That was intentional. Probably.”

He stands by it. Proudly. Even as you wear a hat for the rest of the week.

Confidence level: “I did research.” Taste level: Better in theory. Would lecture you on undertones while booking you a salon fix behind your back.

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

💀 THE VERDICT:

🏆 Worst Offenders:

Romance: Fashion-fueled overconfidence.

Baby: Chaos goblin with color vision vengeance.

😬 Dishonorable Mention:

Jinu: Dangerous in his delusional precision.

Abby: Innocent, well-meaning disaster.

🧪 Shockingly Good?

Mystery. You look cursed… but you also slay.

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

M-List

[itsxinyi]

Reading Update ༄˖°.☕️.ೃ࿔📚*:･

So yesterday night around 1 am, I finished reading the last book of the Trilogy "All for the Game" by Nora Sakavic! 🥳

I wanted to make a post about this series sooner, when I was reading it actually. But then i just couldn't find the time and was too invested in it to stop and do anything else 😭 like no kidding, i literally read it day and night since the moment I started it. Downloaded one book after another as I kept reading and didn't slow down until I finally reached the end!

This was such an amazing series! I absolutely loved it and am so so glad that my friends Pep and Adie convinced me to start it. I am in love with all the characters from this series and am now searching up artworks on Insta, Tiktok, Pinterest, etc!

I absolutely madly love Andrew Minyard and also my boy, Nathaniel Wesninski 🤭. Neil Josten is good and all but Nathaniel's aura just hits different 😩💘 I love the surname Wesninski, it reeks of power and aura and is just so fucking sexy 🫦🤣

But yeah, I plan on reading the extras of the Trilogy before starting Book 4. Gonna do it soon! Rn tho, I got fanarts to drool on 🤩

[bartoszsims3]

FIRST IMPRESSIONS: Welcome to the Bachelor Challenge!

The doors have opened, the cameras are rolling, and the men have officially stepped into the luxurious Monte Rubro villa, carefully selected by BartoszProductions as the perfect stage for love, drama, and… well, whatever chaos is about to unfold.

And let’s just say—the first few seconds didn’t disappoint.

🔥Ding, ding! Round One: Kurt vs. Belphogor

Barely moments after arriving, Kurt and Belphogor wasted zero time before getting into a heated argument. Was it a clash of strong personalities? A battle of wits? Or just two hotheads marking their territory? Who knows! But while these two were busy trading verbal punches, the rest of the guys were wisely using their time to explore the house. Once the dust settled and no actual punches were thrown (this time), everyone decided to cool off and settle in. And that’s when the first friendships started forming!

🏡 How the first hours played out…

💬 Ciarán & Cornelius found themselves deep in conversation in the kitchen, bonding over shared interests (and maybe critiquing the house’s wine selection?). 📚 After, Joshua and Cornelius decided that the best way to settle into a reality show about romance was… to read about it! The two grabbed some classic romance novels and made themselves comfortable, perhaps hoping to pick up a few love tips before the competition really heats up.

⚽ John, Vincent, and Bruce went straight to the foosball table, where John’s military precision, Vincent’s dramatic flair, and Bruce’s playful competitiveness made for an interesting match.

💦 Kurt decided to unwind in the hot tub (after the earlier spat) and was soon joined by Ivan, who seemed intrigued by the brooding bad boy. Was it a strategic move, or was Ivan just hoping Kurt wouldn’t start another fight in the water? 🫂 Andrés, Andy, and Ciarán took it upon themselves to comfort Belphogor, who was still fuming from his earlier clash with Kurt. A little pep talk, some deep breathing, and maybe some flirting? We’ll see… 👀

So, in just a few short hours, we’ve already had a fight, some budding friendships, relaxation, strategizing, and a whole lot of foosball—and this is only the beginning.

💘 Who’s already standing out? Who’s forming alliances? Who’s secretly planning their first big move? Stay tuned, because this Bachelor Challenge is just getting started… and something tells us it’s going to be a wild ride. 😏🔥

[unironicmillennialtrash]

I think it’s safe to say I’m never beating the millennial trash girlie allegations… but maybe you’re not either.

If you’re a fellow millennial woman navigating career, ambition, burnout, healing, ✨growth✨—or just love a good millennial-core self-help book—this list is for you.

These are the books that helped guide and motivate me at the start of my career, and I think you’ll love them too.

📚 #GIRLBOSS by Sophia Amoruso

For girl’s girls who find motivation in another woman’s glow-up.

In #GIRLBOSS, Sophia Amoruso shares the story of how she went from dumpster diving to founding the fashion empire Nasty Gal—offering real, lived-in advice for women navigating career growth and entrepreneurship.

What I love about this book is that it doesn’t feel like a generic list of tips pretending to be helpful. Sophia’s insights come straight from experience, and her no-nonsense tone makes the advice feel personal, not preachy.

If you’re trying to break glass ceilings (or just survive your first real job), this one's worth the read.

🔗 Buy it on Amazon

📚 How Women Rise by Sally Helgesen

Practical advice for women fed up with career growth gatekeeping.

How Women Rise is a must-read for any woman hitting frustrating roadblocks on the path to career growth.

What sets this book apart is that it’s written by two powerhouses: a world-class executive coach and a women’s leadership expert.

Together, they cut through the corporate fluff and break down the 12 habits that often hold women back—without the gatekeeping, without the buzzwords, and with actual strategies that make a difference.

🔗 Buy it on Amazon

📚 Girl, Stop Apologizing by Rachel Hollis

For the women who want to stop dimming their own light.

As women, we’re often taught to take up as little space as possible—don’t be too loud, don’t want too much, and definitely don’t prioritize yourself first.

In Girl, Stop Apologizing, Rachel Hollis steps in like the bold, no-nonsense voice in your head you didn’t know you needed. She makes the case for becoming your whole self before you define yourself as a mom, a partner, a sister, or anything else.

If you struggle with shrinking yourself or losing your identity in service to others, this one’s for you.

🔗 Buy it on Amazon

📚 The Art of Saying No by Damon Zahariades

The recovering people pleaser’s guide to saying no—and meaning it.

Okay, here’s the tea: The Art of Saying No isn’t specifically written for women—but honestly, it might as well be.

I didn’t look up the stats (don’t come for me), but I’d bet most people-pleasers in the Western world are women. We’re taught to be agreeable, helpful, “easy to work with”… even when it costs us.

If you feel guilty turning things down—even when you’re stretched thin or just don’t want to—you need this book. It’ll help you set boundaries without the guilt trip.

🔗 Buy it on Amazon

📚 Nice Girls Don't Get the Corner Office by Lois P. Frankel

For the ladies who are too nice to get ahead.

This one hits close to home—and if you’ve ever worked in a corporate office, it probably will for you too.

In Nice Girls Don’t Get the Corner Office, executive coach Lois P. Frankel breaks down the behaviors women are taught from a young age that quietly sabotage our careers. From people-pleasing to oversharing on social media, she spells out what needs to change—and exactly how to do it.

If you’ve ever felt overlooked at work or unsure how to advocate for yourself, this book is like a corporate survival guide with tough love and actionable advice.

🔗 Buy it on Amazon

📚 You Are a Badass by Jen Sincero

For the ones who believe in themselves—kinda.

Believe in yourself… but need a little extra fire? Struggling with impostor syndrome, self-doubt, or just a chronic case of “I’m not doing enough”?

You Are a Badass is the pep talk you didn’t know you needed. Jen Sincero helps you reframe your mindset, stop self-sabotaging, and start treating your strengths like superpowers—not accidents.

If you downplay your wins or constantly beat yourself up over past mistakes, this one’s for you.

🔗 Buy it on Amazon

Have a favorite millennial-core self-help book I missed? Drop it in the tags or reblog with your recs! Happy reading! 🤗

[just-another-medtech-student]

🦠 Day 2: Showing Up (Even If It's Late)

🌙 Study Log: Day 2

⏰ Start Time: Technically? 10:30 PM 😅 But the real grind started after that accidental nap… and a 6:00 AM comeback!

📚 Topics Covered:

Carbohydrate (still ongoing!)

Total: 53 pages read

10 more pages to go before carbs are finally done haunting me

🧠 How It Went: Started the day a little off track. Night classes + dinner + just life things got in the way, so I didn’t get to study until 10:30 PM. Tried to push through a few pages, but my eyes were like, “nope,” and the nap turned into a full-on sleep session 😭

But I didn’t want to fall too behind, so I pulled myself together and woke up at 6:00 AM. That early start helped me cover 53 pages—while also running a few errands. Not bad, honestly.

I still haven’t wrapped up carbohydrates yet (10 pages left!), but today gave me this cool realization: biochem’s not as scary when I start connecting the concepts to real life. The food I eat, how my body works—it’s actually kind of amazing. It’s like unlocking a hidden part of everyday life.

💡 Study Tools Used:

Biochem textbook 📖

Mental pep talks + real-life analogies 🧠🍞🍚

🌱 Little Life Moment: Sometimes a “nap” becomes a reset. And that’s okay. It reminded me that discipline is important, but so is being kind to myself.

🔭 Looking Ahead: Gonna finish the remaining 10 pages of carbohydrates and finally, finally wrap up that topic. Then it’s all in for biochemical energy production. Let’s gooo 🔥

🌟 Mini Reflection: Slow days don’t mean wasted days. I’m learning, I’m adjusting, and I’m staying accountable. One page at a time.

[jesi-jess]

Advice on Selling Digital Comics?📚

I am not saying I am doing comics now or anytime soon, more so I am looking into some options of doing so and would just like the information if I decided to try it when I can. Clip studio is really great for comic making on that front and I'd be really curious in exploring the features it gives.

A lot more under the cut, it's a long post but I'd really love if people looked it over and helped me out! Reblogs are much appreciated and thank you for those that share and help!😭💖✨

Some of my thoughts with it:

Pages will be a A4 comic page style in left to right reading format, no physicals/prints will be thought for and supported (as in I won't make physicals myself or allow selling from others, but I will be fine with private prints for yourself and friends. I just can't guarantee the comic will be up to printing standards!).

Comics would range in Fandom and Original on topics in SFW to NSFW (non-sexual and sexual), so it needs to be a place that allows all of that. I work around various stuff and like exploring topics in my works, I don't want to be stuck to a SFW or NSFW only side of things.

They would be coming out in full with a pdf and png formats, not a 'by chapter' release. Would be mostly a 1 shot or Dojin styled comics but who knows if I end up liking it a lot, I might do multi-chapters, etc.

I was thinking of prices ranging from 5$ to 30$ counting on the length and style of comic (monotone lower, color higher).

Would like being able to pay for the comics to have multiple available options (card, paypal, etc). This is low priority but preferred.

My first thought was Itchio, cause of the light page customization along with it. But before I am sold on using that I wanted to ask around for advice from others that maybe do it too?

Some sites I won't be using though; - Nothing Subscriber Based (patron and the likes) - Gumroad - Webtoon (not meant for that format)

Also how hard is it to post and maintain more than one place to buy for low energy people? I'd like to hear from other people how that goes (and how tasking it can be). Kofi and Etsy were on my mind, but more looking at Itchio right now. And of course I am open to looking at anything else people recommend!

On a last note, how would peps feel about buying high resolution of artworks like the idea of an artbook but just the png and gif files instead of a pdf? I was pondering the idea along with comics though not sure if I should even try posting old art now or wait for just this year and go forward from there. Also should I focus purely on fanart or all of it? I'd be find doing a package deal or something, just thought it'd be fun as well.

I would not include commissions, adopts/customs, and gift art of original characters ever. Only works with my characters in it or is fanart!

[taraandtarot]

Tara! You looked kinda down at work today. Ah ah, don’t apologize for worrying me. You shouldn’t feel guilty for having emotions hun.

There’s no need to force that sweet smile or laugh, or to even open up and tell me what’s making you ache. Not right away at least. How about after our work tonight, we can get our hair done together?

~ Fellow anon Hunter, 📚 (if that emote isn’t taken!)

She’s about to say something, probably a defense, but is cut off almost as soon as she tries. It’s like they can read her mind. Maybe that’s their Evol?

Either way, she’s deeply grateful. When she smiles, she lets it be a little sad.

“That… actually sounds pretty great. Let’s do it.” And then, with a little more pep in her voice: “Looking forward to it!”

[dhanus-world]

"Atomic Habits" by James Clear is not just another self-help book; it's the atomic bomb of habit change. Like a master chef with a secret recipe, Clear takes the ingredients of habit formation and turns them into a tantalizing dish of personal transformation. This book isn't about massive overhauls; it's about tiny, seemingly insignificant changes that have the power to explode into a life-altering chain reaction. Picture a single domino tipping over, setting off a mesmerizing cascade of positive habits.

Clear doesn't just provide empty motivational pep talks. He delves into the science of habits, dissecting their DNA to reveal their true nature. With his engaging prose and real-world examples, he shows you how habits are the building blocks of success, and how you can leverage them to achieve your goals. It's like having a friendly, knowledgeable mentor by your side, guiding you through the labyrinth of behavioral psychology.

Reading "Atomic Habits" is like being handed the keys to your own personal transformation. It's not just about reading a book; it's about rewriting your life story, one small habit at a time. So, prepare to ignite a revolution within yourself, and watch as your atomic habits unleash an explosion of positive change.

📚 Discover the Ultimate Self-Improvement Gem! 🌟

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👉 Click here to learn more and take your first step towards a better you:

🌐 [Atomic Habits By James Clear]

📣 Elevate your life with this practical guide and make that 1% daily improvement. Don't wait, act now! 🔥📈 #AtomicHabits #SelfImprovement

[peppertoastuniverse]

pep reads: gojo satoru – long fics (pt.1)

Part 2

｡･:*:･ﾟ★,｡･:*:･ﾟ☆｡･:*:･ﾟ★,｡･:*:･ﾟ☆｡･:*:･ﾟ★｡･:*:･ﾟ★,｡･:*:･ﾟ☆｡･:*:･ﾟ

☆ the way you love me by @peachsayshi [AO3/tumblr] [status: ongoing ◦ 29/? chapters] [smut!] [fwb!gojo] #pep's first fic she was OBSESSED with #real good good smut WITH FEELINGS

“We can stop anytime. If either one of us feels like... this ...might be too much. We stop, no questions .” “We can stop anytime,” Gojo repeated “... and nothing changes between us .” You swallowed hard at his last statement. You may not be able to read his eyes but you could hear it in his voice that he needed reassurance. “No matter what happens, we’ll still be friends...” you replied softly, “now kiss me before I change my mind.”

☆ you and me by tomodachi [AO3: ] [status: completed ◦ 5/5 chapters] [tear jerker] [eventual smut!] #pep cried #gojo just kinda loves you real hard

“Prisoners say the most comical things when their judgment comes,” you tilt your head, lifting a finger before him, “Who are you?"

--- History is written by the winners, Satoru knew this well. It was only when he lost and got sealed inside the Prison Realm he learned how to be weak and find out a long buried truth.

☆ ito by @peekamatcha [AO3] [status: ongoing ◦ 48/? chapters] [super slow burn] [shinto elements] #pep DIES with every update #the TWIST in that one chapter omg

You, a former sorcerer now working as a university lecturer, were hoping to maintain your distance with the sorcerer world for an eternity to come. However, with the reappearance of an upperclassmen from a decade ago, you are forced to go on a journey which you would rather sit out of. But somebody must save humanity from the impending apocalypse and apparently the job falls on the shoulders of you two.

It would have been alright had he not been everything you didn’t want to be reminded of. And the sacrifices to be made may be more than what had been bargained for. ☆moonlight by @septembersummer [AO3/tumblr:] [status: completed ◦ 10/10 chapters] [smut!] #pep loves this AU #pep SCREAMED

Gojo Satoru is dying. And no, it's not his fault this time.

The curse which is withering Satoru into an early grave is actually the product of his great, great, great, great, great, great, great grandfather, who had a couple of sons that refused to procreate. And what does a proud, powerful man do when his sons refuse to fuck, and there won't be another heir to the clan?

He curses his own bloodline, of course.

It's only natural that he forces them through some twisted form of sorcery to become uncontrollably, violently attracted to the person they're most genetically compatible with.

It's even better that the curse creates a permanent, unbreakable bond between the two unwilling lovers. That's right, it usually takes more than one fuck to make a baby-- so, why not force them to have twelve?

Satoru wished his ancestor would be resurrected from the grave, just so that he could kill him again. That is, before Satoru inevitably dies.

He's had a good run, he thinks. Now, all he has to do is make sure you don't find out that you can fuck him back to life and try to very stupidly save him from himself.

(here's a spoiler: you do).

☆ a typical family by @literalia [AO3/tumblr] [status: completed? ◦ 32/32 chapters] [non liner narrative] [dad!gojo] #pep absolutely MELTED #slice of life #pep's gojo comfort fic

"satoru. where did you get these kids?"

or

after a six month absence, satoru shows up at your door two little kids following behind. chaos ensues.

☆ and if i cant see by hollowdonut [AO3: ] [status: unknown ◦ 26/? chapters] [slowburn] [eventual smut!] [tw: ptsd] #pep loves the reader's dynamics with gojo!

They say eyes are the window to the soul, but Gojo’s eyes are almost always hidden behind a blindfold. Even when they aren’t, you can never tell what he’s thinking.

You wonder if you should’ve taken that teaching job in Kyoto instead.

｡･:*:･ﾟ★,｡･:*:･ﾟ☆｡･:*:･ﾟ★,｡･:*:･ﾟ☆｡･:*:･ﾟ★｡･:*:･ﾟ★,｡･:*:･ﾟ☆｡･:*:･ﾟ

bonus!

☆ all hail the empress! by @chuluoyi [tumblr/AO3: ] [status: unknown ◦ 1/? chapters] [smut!] #pep loves this AU #but THE END THO? OMGGG you are an empress perfect in every way... until your husband suddenly casts you aside for his expecting mistress. but you won't be dethroned just like that, because the newly coronated western emperor, gojo satoru, sets his sights on you, and thus your revenge against your ex-husband begins...

[critical-quoter]

Reviews from Last Week

Ignite - Aarti V. Raman ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 🏎️ It's crazy to me that this is not more popular. I'm sure I stumbled across a small snippet of this on TikTok and immediately added it to the TBR. The problem is that it's been so long since I added it, I had no idea what I was jumping into. Thus, I started Ignite completely blind. And I was so pleasantly surprised.

The characters are so richly unique with this own petty (and not-so-petty) issues. Mili is such a badass FMC. She isn't a simpering, whiney woman that needs anyone. And honestly, that's so freaking refreshing. In almost every aspect of her life, she had it together. Even the portion that, to her, felt out of control, was just a small set back. We all have daddy issues, Mili. Just ask Nihaal. 

And you know what? I liked Nihaal too. Even when he was being a dirt bag, I liked him. The only part that I felt iffy on was his first chapter because I have to be frank with you, he sounded like Lightning McQueen giving himself his pre-race pep talk. But he was hound. He didn't think of women like they were objects before he met Mili. And I mean, he even was interested in Mili until he found out that she was friendly and working with his dad and then he let his own daddy issues bloom. Haven't we all been there, though?

The pacing was fantastic. The suspense plot was both amazingly well done and unexpected when I started this. I am soooo looking forward to more writing from this author.

Still Mine - Nadia Lee ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 💍 This is not the first book I've read in The Lasker Brothers series, and I can't say that it's my favorite. But that being said, it was pretty good. I really loved the dynamic between Bobbi and Noah. Bobbi was so put together and sure of herself (outside of her relationship with Noah), she had her life on track. All through hard work and manifesting. I just love how bad ass she was without being portrayed as bitchy. And Noah played a goof ball really well. Even if it wasn't completely him, it really did help the story and the romance flow so well. 

The only real issue I had with the story was the pacing. It really felt like it started to drag in the last 30 percent. I can't say what would have helped it from dragging, I just had a hard time staying interested. Otherwise, everything else was good. I loved all the characters, mains and sides. I really love this universe. This story was a bit more over the top compared to the other's in the story I've read but still good.

Mountain Boss - S. J. Tilly ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 🏔️ ARC review posted separately

Daydreamer - Susie Tate ⭐️⭐️ 📚 You know, Susie Tate has always been a little hit or miss for me. She typically (from the books I've read) has FMCs that are either severely traumatized or not neurotypical. They tend to be unique enough that they stand out as far as characters go. The problem with this formula is that sometimes these FMCs come across more as caricatures of these issues rather than real people. 

Lucy was one of the caricature FMCs in my opinion. This girl has anxiety bordering on agoraphobia but she up and moves from her mother's house in her small town to living on her own in a London apartment. She gets a job working for a finance firm (of which she admits she has no interest and thus leads to her being a really bad assistant) and lets the man who she has a crush on talk down to her, make her dress differently, and go against her own medical needs. She does all this without therapy or medication. I know I have minor anxiety compared to her but even I couldn't manage all that. It was just so disgustingly unrealistic.

And while I'm here, let me talk my piece about Felix. He is the absolute worst. Just a typical sexist finance bro. The way he talks to Lucy even before they start a relationship is downright deplorable but then Lucy supposedly "betrays" him and he acts straight up heinous (don't come at me for spoilers, this is in the synopsis). I don't care how in love she is, in her shoes, he would be essentially dead to me at that point.

The pacing is decent and some of the side characters aren't terrible. But honestly, the characters that will be in the sequels in this series are some of my least favorites. I can't see myself continuing with this series at all.

Enigma - RuNyx ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 🏰 ARC review posted separately

Sunshine and the Sheriff - Alina Lane ⭐️⭐️⭐️ ☀️ I wanted this to be better. I know it could have been better. The problem came mainly with the side characters though. I get the point of having 6 boys in a family, what better way to start a series than to stuff as many dateable hot guys into one family. But they didn't all need to be as loud as the mains. The brothers ended up taking as much space in the story as both Maisie and Harlan and at that point, the plot ended up being drowned out with the potential of sequels.

As far as our main characters go, Maisie and Harlan were okay, not great but they were there. However, there didn't seem to be much chemistry between the two and maybe that's due in part to a lack of buildup. Harlan went from 0 to 100 within an hour basically, and Maisie didn't really act like she had any trauma other than a few flinches. I can't think of any abused woman who, without therapy, can almost immediately be comfortable being surrounded by several large and loud men. She went through some major trauma and was basically on the run and in hiding for a year and a half, but the moment she stops she's pretty much cured? It not only came across as unbelievable, it bordered on goofy.

In fact, the majority of this book was just goofy and over the top. From the dialogue and character reactions to the background plot lines. If you're looking for something low stakes and fairly light hearted - despite the triggers - this is the book for you. It just wasn't my cup of tea.

Wishing on a Daisy - Whitney Miller ⭐️⭐️ 🌼 I need to start this off by saying that for a debut novel/novella, this was pretty good. The unfortunate issue that I had was that this felt like a very rough first draft rather than the final product. Wishing On A Daisy was in sore need of an editor for both the grammar issues and typos, but also for some of the content.

I liked the characters for sure. Ariel and Teddy were pretty well done as far as romantic mains go. But I felt like some of the reactions just didn't fit with how the characters were being built up. Ariel was fleeing an extremely abusive relationship. She was pregnant and battered. It didn't make sense that she was already comfortable being around Teddy, especially with his dour attitude. But whatever, we can look past that for the point of the plot. The biggest problem came with Teddy. He goes from hating the idea of Ariel being on the ranch to immediately changing his tune and wanting to take care of her. But then the end of Part 1 happened (this next part is kind of a spoiler) and it just felt like his entire character was assassinated. What was the point of the build up? And if the point was to start too fast then scale back and grovel, better ways could have accomplished that. What Teddy said absolutely destroyed whatever good will I had towards him.

Regardless, I can see potential in the author. By no means am I writing Whitney Miller off as a bust because frankly, I think that even this story wasn't bad. I just really hated Teddy.

Be My Muse - Chantelle Blake ⭐️ 👜 This was not it. I wanted to like this so much. The TikToks I had seen that first drove my interest looked so enticing. The problem lies in the characters and the pacing. 

As far as the characters go, Mila had such a child-like behavior to most everything that, especially during the sex scenes, made me so uncomfortable. I can get behind a 23-year-old virgin that's never been kissed (I guess, if I must) but during the first spicy scene, it just made my skin crawl with how she reacted to him. And Hendrix's violent behavior when anyone even looks at Mila, while I guess can be hot, just came across as abusive. Like, dude, get yourself a therapist. All this and the dialogue is just so clunky and stilted. None of it flowed like a conversation, rather it felt like a really poorly written B-movie with even worse actors playing the parts.

And maybe Hendrix's over the top behavior just comes across as bad because the pacing was so weird. We raced through the story to the point that even if there was chemistry between Mila and Hendrix, you wouldn't know because nothing was really built up. I stopped caring about the suspense of the stalker because Mila was just so flagrantly stupid about it. On top of her stupidity, there was just too much going on. Too many side plots, too many hissy fits and crying, too many brawls. 

Just not my jam at all.

Howl - Meg Alivien ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 🍋 I was in a rut with mediocre or just plain bad books for the past few days, and when I started this (knowing full well that I found it on TikTok) I did not have high hopes. Color me surprised. This was such a great read. I love cozy monster romances so much. Raegan and Jamie just worked so well together, both as best friends and as a couple.

No notes. No complaints. This was fantastic.

Chaos - Luna Mason ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 🏍️ I've read a couple of Luna Mason's book from an earlier series and honestly did not care for them. So deciding to read Chaos did not come lightly for me. Thankfully, this was a pleasant surprise at how much I liked this. The writing was good. The pacing was on point. And I really liked both Sofia and Jax. 

The fact that we were given a story that held the struggle of depression in a man was pretty refreshing. It wasn't the man that was "saving" the woman this go around. Instead we were treated with Jax's struggles as the main obstacle. 

I really enjoyed this. I'm glad I didn't write off Mason entirely.

Sicilian Sunset - Nikila Rose ⭐️ 🌅 This is one of those books that makes people think that all BookTok recommends is garbage. I'm seeing that a lot of the 5 stars reviews are rating it that high based on the entire trilogy and I am not about to read ~1000 pages to get a decent story after 400 pages of crap. The characters were annoying. The writing was amateur. And the pacing was like fighting an army of sloths in the middle of a pool of cold molasses. My goodness was it exhaustingly slow.

I will not be continuing the trilogy. I can protect my mental health better than that.

All Rhodes Lead Here - Mariana Zapata ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 🥾 Man, I love a good slow burn romance. Like, really. And Mariana Zapata manages to get me every time with it. I have no notes for this book.

Aurora and Rhodes had the absolute best chemistry together. Even when Aurora was sure that Rhodes hated her, they just worked. And even on their own, they stood strong as unique and wonderfully written characters. Aurora had gone through it, both in her childhood and lately in her adulthood, but she wasn't whiney or needy. She had her shit together and it was so nice that she just dealt with what life threw at her. And Rhodes? The perfect silver fox. I loved him

Listen, this is the slowest of slow burns. It's not meant to all come together at the 50% mark. And that's what makes this book so good. It's a romance, you know you're getting a HEA. You just don't know how it will all work out.

Also, Amanda Ronconi and Sebastian York were the perfect narraters for the audiobook. Chef's kiss.

Frisco - Tijan ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 🏍️ You know what? Hell yeah.

I can see the Sons of Anarchy inspiration in this. I'm not sure how much that actually enhanced the story for me (I've only seen portions of the show) but this was pretty good. Honestly, I'm pretty relieved that 1. Kali and Shane had some legitimate chemistry and 2. Shane didn't remain a piece of shit. My biggest beef with this was that the ending just didn't satisfy like I wanted it to. It didn't feel finished very well, almost rushed even. I was happy enough with it, I guess. But there were a lot of questions left unanswered in my opinion.

I still really like Tijan's writing. This just wasn't better than what I've already read from the author previously.

Dating and Dismemberment - A.L. Brody ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 🐙 I love me a good monster romance and I love a rom-com. I'm going to be 100% honest, the only reason I decided to purchase and read this book was because of the TikTok's the author made mocking how male authors write female characters. I figured if he could make me laugh at something so stupid, then he might be able to get a giggle out of me in a rom-com.

Now, I can't say that I actually laughed out loud. I did forcefully blow air out of my nose on a couple of occasions. I really, really liked this. Both Darla and Jarko were just great characters. They were well-written with unique characteristics (both with their personalities as well as with their physical attributes), and they had actual backstories that made sense for why they were doing what they were doing. I loved them. 

The pacing was fantastic. The world building was meh, but this is a monster rom-com that's less than 300 pages (before you count the epilogues) so I would think you shouldn't expect much on that front. I loved it. I'm so excited to continue the series as it comes out.

[ongolecharles]

DAILY SCRIPTURE READINGS (DSR) 📚 Group, Fri Oct 04th, 2024 ... Friday of The Twenty-Sixth Week in Ordinary Time, Year B/Memorial of Saint Francis of Assisi

Reading 1

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

Jb 38:1, 12-21; 40:3-5

The LORD addressed Job out of the storm and said:

Have you ever in your lifetime commanded the morning

and shown the dawn its place

For taking hold of the ends of the earth,

till the wicked are shaken from its surface?

The earth is changed as is clay by the seal,

and dyed as though it were a garment;

But from the wicked the light is withheld,

and the arm of pride is shattered.

Have you entered into the sources of the sea,

or walked about in the depths of the abyss?

Have the gates of death been shown to you,

or have you seen the gates of darkness?

Have you comprehended the breadth of the earth?

Tell me, if you know all:

Which is the way to the dwelling place of light,

and where is the abode of darkness,

That you may take them to their boundaries

and set them on their homeward paths?

You know, because you were born before them,

and the number of your years is great!

Then Job answered the LORD and said:

Behold, I am of little account; what can I answer you?

I put my hand over my mouth.

Though I have spoken once, I will not do so again;

though twice, I will do so no more.

Responsorial Psalm

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

Ps 139:1-3, 7-8, 9-10, 13-14ab

R. (24b) Guide me, Lord, along the everlasting way.

O LORD, you have probed me and you know me;

you know when I sit and when I stand;

you understand my thoughts from afar.

My journeys and my rest you scrutinize,

with all my ways you are familiar.

R. Guide me, Lord, along the everlasting way.

Where can I go from your spirit?

From your presence where can I flee?

If I go up to the heavens, you are there;

if I sink to the nether world, you are present there.

R. Guide me, Lord, along the everlasting way.

If I take the wings of the dawn,

if I settle at the farthest limits of the sea,

Even there your hand shall guide me,

and your right hand hold me fast.

R. Guide me, Lord, along the everlasting way.

Truly you have formed my inmost being;

you knit me in my mother's womb.

I give you thanks that I am fearfully, wonderfully made;

wonderful are your works.

R. Guide me, Lord, along the everlasting way.

Alleluia

--------

Ps 95:8

R. Alleluia, alleluia.

If today you hear his voice,

harden not your hearts.

R. Alleluia, alleluia.

Gospel

-‐--------

Lk 10:13-16

Jesus said to them,

"Woe to you, Chorazin! Woe to you, Bethsaida!

For if the mighty deeds done in your midst

had been done in Tyre and Sidon,

they would long ago have repented,

sitting in sackcloth and ashes.

But it will be more tolerable for Tyre and Sidon

at the judgment than for you.

And as for you, Capernaum, 'Will you be exalted to heaven?

You will go down to the netherworld.'

Whoever listens to you listens to me.

Whoever rejects you rejects me.

And whoever rejects me rejects the one who sent me."

***

FOCUS AND LITURGY OF THE WORD

There is much art, books and poems centering about the great saint, Francis. However, this Daily Reflection continues commenting and praying with the daily masses of Ordinary Time. I admit that reflecting on the life and spirit of that wonderful saint would be more joyful, perhaps, than writing about those who reject the preaching of the Seventy-two, and are rejected by God and sent down, way down.

In our First Reading from the Book of Job, we hear that Job listened well to the final presentation in the court case between the Creating-God and the suffering Job who had lost so much except faith. WE hear God laying out His evidence and Job convicted and convinced and his final surrender.

Ah, but the Gospel for this liturgy. In the first twelve verses of this chapter, Jesus gives a pep talk and some game-plans for His first big team who will go out and preach what they have heard in their minds and hearts.

They hear, for all their good intensions, they will not all be listened-to nor accepted. He has a comforting few words for what they will do with rejection. Then I picture Jesus, watching them all go off in good spirits, gaze off into their futures and ponder about others before Him who went off in their prophetic spirit and also were not totally heard or accepted.

He muses that if some of the other towns would have heard what these new speakers and doers will say and do, they all would have turned-back, re-pented. It is a hope, a wish, a prediction of how these new prophets will do great and mighty deeds as a sign of the life and mission of their Sender.

Now for my own personal musing which might be a little prophetic and so might be a little-bit rejected or argued-with. Okay, but as He is hoping that what His sent-ones might experience, I might as well by writing the following, hold on and listen, as did Job, as did the six dozen.

What Jesus sends them and us to speak about is not personal reconstruction so we can feel better about ourselves as we advance. (Hold on) I worry that we writers and preachers and those who hear and read the Gospels are tempted to promote “personal behavior” adjustments and so read and listen to the Good News as instructive and indicting about our personal and daily activities. Well that can sound pretty good, Jesus came as a Behaviorist, change your actions and you’ll look a lot like Jesus. That can sound pretty good to.

As a young Jesuit I worked a long time on just such a plan and it depressed me, because it was all about my getting better in my own eyes, my own sense which I then projected onto Jesus. Now I had Jesus over there pointing out my faults and misbehaviors and I assumed He was as disappointed in me as I was about the same “poor me”. I called that, Ignatian Dis-spiritualization. It was and I did never improve by trying to improve. What changed? Jesus’ finger changed from pointing to inviting, “And that has made all the difference.”

I am almost at the end, hang on!  Jesus is sending these men whom we assume have not perfectly self-improved, to live and speak the words of comfort of the loving-creative God Who has sent this comfort into the world in the human flesh of Jesus, Who invites rather than indicts. In short, we change our behaviors from within! The Word is a seed that grows in time and inside and does not constantly self-examines to see if the growth is enough.

The great works of Francis and so many others flow outwards from our spirits, and those outwirdlies are more personal inviting than condemning words of logic and force.

So, this is my story and I’m going to stick living with it!  Happy Feast!  

***

SAINT OF THE DAY

Saint Francis of Assisi

(1181 or 1182 – October 3, 1226)

Saint Francis of Assisi’s Story

The patron saint of Italy, Francis of Assisi was a poor little man who astounded and inspired the Church by taking the gospel literally—not in a narrow fundamentalist sense, but by actually following all that Jesus said and did, joyfully, without limit, and without a sense of self-importance.

Serious illness brought the young Francis to see the emptiness of his frolicking life as leader of Assisi’s youth. Prayer—lengthy and difficult—led him to a self-emptying like that of Christ, climaxed by embracing a leper he met on the road. It symbolized his complete obedience to what he had heard in prayer: “Francis! Everything you have loved and desired in the flesh it is your duty to despise and hate, if you wish to know my will. And when you have begun this, all that now seems sweet and lovely to you will become intolerable and bitter, but all that you used to avoid will turn itself to great sweetness and exceeding joy.”

From the cross in the neglected field-chapel of San Damiano, Christ told him, “Francis, go out and build up my house, for it is nearly falling down.” Francis became the totally poor and humble workman.

He must have suspected a deeper meaning to “build up my house.” But he would have been content to be for the rest of his life the poor “nothing” man actually putting brick on brick in abandoned chapels. He gave up all his possessions, piling even his clothes before his earthly father—who was demanding restitution for Francis’ “gifts” to the poor—so that he would be totally free to say, “Our Father in heaven.” He was, for a time, considered to be a religious fanatic, begging from door to door when he could not get money for his work, evoking sadness or disgust to the hearts of his former friends, ridicule from the unthinking.

But genuineness will tell. A few people began to realize that this man was actually trying to be Christian. He really believed what Jesus said: “Announce the kingdom! Possess no gold or silver or copper in your purses, no traveling bag, no sandals, no staff” (Luke 9:1-3).

Francis’ first rule for his followers was a collection of texts from the Gospels. He had no intention of founding an order, but once it began he protected it and accepted all the legal structures needed to support it. His devotion and loyalty to the Church were absolute and highly exemplary at a time when various movements of reform tended to break the Church’s unity.

Francis was torn between a life devoted entirely to prayer and a life of active preaching of the Good News. He decided in favor of the latter, but always returned to solitude when he could. He wanted to be a missionary in Syria or in Africa, but was prevented by shipwreck and illness in both cases. He did try to convert the sultan of Egypt during the Fifth Crusade.

During the last years of his relatively short life, he died at 44, Francis was half blind and seriously ill. Two years before his death he received the stigmata, the real and painful wounds of Christ in his hands, feet and side.

On his deathbed, Francis said over and over again the last addition to his Canticle of the Sun, “Be praised, O Lord, for our Sister Death.” He sang Psalm 141, and at the end asked his superior’s permission to have his clothes removed when the last hour came in order that he could expire lying naked on the earth, in imitation of his Lord.

Reflection

-----------

Francis of Assisi was poor only that he might be Christ-like. He recognized creation as another manifestation of the beauty of God. In 1979, he was named patron of ecology. He did great penance—apologizing to “Brother Body” later in life—that he might be totally disciplined for the will of God. Francis’ poverty had a sister, Humility, by which he meant total dependence on the good God. But all this was, as it were, preliminary to the heart of his spirituality: living the gospel life, summed up in the charity of Jesus and perfectly expressed in the Eucharist.

Saint Francis of Assisi is the Patron Saint of:

Animals

Archaeologists

Ecology

Italy

Merchants

Messengers

Metal Workers

***

【Build your Faith in Christ Jesus on #dailyscripturereadingsgroup 📚: +256 751 540 524 .. Whatsapp】

[bartoszsims3]

Day 5, Part 2 & Day 6 – A New Face, A Hot Massage & A Sad Goodbye

Just when the boys thought they had things figured out, the producers dropped a twist — a brand new contestant was joining the house! And not just anyone…

Welcome Laurence Blevins! 😏 Mysterious, artistic, and brimming with confidence, Laurence made a grand entrance and wasted zero time flirting with Bruce. This one isn’t here to play it safe, folks! Thank you @c0rujitt0 ���

Meanwhile, Belphogor was spiraling over his upcoming one-on-one Bear Cabin date, and Jhon, ever the advisor, offered him some solid pep talk. Ciarán and Andrés? Too busy playing tag (seriously, Ciarán has now played tag with half the house — this man is on a mission).

Belphogor finally worked up the courage to talk to Bruce, and oh boy, he wasted no time dropping a flirty line. (Go big or go home, right?)

Then… it was time. The Bear Cabin date had arrived! 🏡✨

After some deep conversation and getting to know each other better, Bruce decided to treat Belphogor to a special acupuncture massage—a technique he picked up during a trip to China. With precise, delicate needles placed along key pressure points, the treatment was meant to relax the body and clear the mind. 🧘‍♂️✨

Belphogor, at first a little hesitant, soon surrendered to the sensation (and to Bruce’s skilled hands). By the end of it, he was feeling lighter, looser, and maybe just a little too comfortable. 😏

Not one to leave a good deed unanswered, Belphogor found his own way to "thank" Bruce. Judging by Bruce’s expression afterward, it was very effective. 😉🔥

Back at the house, Vincent and Joshua took Laurence under their wing, helping him settle in and get comfortable with the group. The next morning, Bruce wasted no time getting to know Laurence even better (👀), while the rest of the guys had a calm day of chatting, reading, and eating way too much ice cream. 🍦

But, as always, elimination loomed…

And at the end of the night, we had to say goodbye to Ivan.

📜 Farewell to Ivan: Oh, Ivan… our brooding bookworm, the resident intellectual, the "I’d rather be reading" energy of the house. 📚 You may have flopped in archery, but you won hearts with your quiet charm and effortless cool.

Thanks for being part of the Bachelor Challenge! Now go forth and be your mysterious, literature-loving self elsewhere. The library is waiting. 🖤✨

(based on relationship level with Bruce)

[thepresentwriter]

[Day 15/100 days of reading challenge]

📚 Presence- Amy

Today, I continued reading the book. I remember last night when I read the book, it mentioned that being your most authentic self is when you are at your best. Research shows that people who embrace their authenticity perform better at work, and I truly believe in that. It resonates with me deeply. Lately, I've been reflecting on my core values, focusing on three main aspects: family, critical thinking, and embracing my natural self - carefree, captivating, sexy, and charming. I believe that when someone is their most natural self, in a positive way, of course, and in suitable situations, they don't need to pretend to be anyone else. I'm quite sure I read this concept in the book I'm currently reading, along with other audiobooks and articles throughout the day. It's essential to have a pep talk with ourselves, not by standing in front of a mirror and reciting empty affirmations, but by identifying and embracing our core values. I've chosen three values that I find important, and I genuinely think that if we can all be our best, most authentic selves, we don't need to be anyone else. Of course, it's crucial to be adaptable and considerate of different situations. The book discusses the belief that we have different selves in different situations. I resonate with this idea, especially in a professional environment where I might present a different side of myself compared to how I am at home with loved ones or with friends. It's still me, but adapting to the context. I find this concept quite intriguing. As I turn 30 this year, I've decided to embrace my natural self, in a positive way, while continuously striving for personal growth. In the book, the author mentions the best moments, using the example of a musician performing live. It's okay for the musician to be imperfect and show vulnerability because that's what creates an emotional connection with the audience. It doesn't need to be about perfection, but rather about the raw emotion, feeling, and vibrant energy. This resonates with some recent interviews I've had. I don't consider my answers or my English to be perfect, but I felt a genuine connection and the desire to share. I aimed to present myself intelligently while also building a meaningful connection. Sometimes, it's not about being perfect; it's about being authentic and vulnerable. I recall hearing a YouTuber say that what truly connects people is not perfection, but rather the willingness to open up and show vulnerability. I find this statement to be so true.

 good night. Love you. 💕��🌙

[kharti-old]

[ In Over His Head #3 ]

      ( first | prev | next )

“You’re Blackbeard,” Stede said. Again. He’d said it three or four times already.

Ed—Blackbeard chuckled. “Aye.”

      ( Continue reading on AO3 or... )

“You’re Blackbeard,” Stede said. Again. He’d said it three or four times already.

Ed—Blackbeard chuckled. “Aye.”

Say something else, Stede Bonnet! “The Blackbeard.”

Well, it was something else, by definition.

“Unless someone else’s been usin’ m’name… aye, the Blackbeard.”

You are making an utter buffoon of yourself, his father sneered.

His wife leered at Blackbeard, at the black leather that showed every bit of his muscularity in extreme detail, at the tattoos that encircled his arms. That’s what a real pirate looks like.

Chubby little Baby Bonnet, so tiny standing there, pale and disheveled and weak.

Say something.

Say something.

Say anything!

“I’m Stede,” he gasped out.

Blackbeard laughed. Not at him, though, not like the others who mocked every thought that dared to be thought.

But he wasn’t trying to be funny, so how could it not be at him?

And yet he found himself laughing, too. “I’m so very sorry, I just—you’re an honest-to-god pirate!”

Blackbeard ran his thumb along his nose, then cocked his brow. “Are you saying y’aren’t a pirate, then?”

Stede opened his mouth, but no sound came out, at least not at first. His eyes fell, and he admitted with no small amount of resignation, “I want to be.”

“Well, then, let’s see.” Blackbeard strode forward with purpose, gesturing at the cabin around them. “Y’ve got a ship and a crew. You got a captain’s quarters to fuck all captain’s quarters.” He turned on his heel to face Stede, his grin back tenfold. “And I found ye bein’ put t’death by the Spanish on account of piracy.”

Stede didn’t know how to react, exactly. Nothing had prepared him for this moment. He wasn’t even sure what this moment was, exactly.

It seemed like Blackbeard was giving him a… pep talk?

He felt color rise to his cheeks, which was a bit of a feat given his recent impalement and strangulation and overall near-death experience.

“Thank you,” he said so softly he wasn’t sure if it was audible.

But then Blackbeard reacted with a wink, and his face grew warmer.

      ( next )

📚 view a list of all my current stories!

[unspeakable3]

List 3 things that make you happy, then put this in the ask box of anyone you like! get to know your mutuals and followers!!! 🌸💕

aww! 💛✨

🌱 plants! every morning i make myself a cup of tea and have a little pootle around my greenhouse. my baby toms are doing well, chilli peps are s l o w l y getting there, and my baby cucumbers and salad peps have just started sprouting! it's a lovely way to come to consciousness in the mornings

📚 books! i've recently stopped watching so much boring tv and stopped playing so many boring games and started reading again, instead. i used to devour books as a child, and i'm slowly getting back into that mode as an adult and MY GOD IT IS THE BEST WHY HAVE I BEEN WASTING SO MUCH TIME

🫂 hugs! there's literally nothing better in the world than a proper big hug from someone you love.