#AudioBook Listening Challenge:

[sunnymoon-sunshine]

Another thought I’ve been having relates back to The Scorching, the history behind it, and how much of a good twist it was to throw out. I don’t know if it was planned or a convenient retcon, but it works on so many levels thanks to the themes already present. It also leads to some interesting theories.

Burn could never have been queen. The first action we see her do in the books is destroy an egg due to hatch within the next few nights. It’s cruel, and most of all, it sealed her fate. The kingdoms were founded on the blood and tears of furious mothers, broken hearted from losing their eggs and determined to keep their broods safe. Burn couldn’t have been queen, because that is not what a queen should be. Thorn takes the throne because she took over a city, created an army, and fought tooth and claw to find and save her lost dragonet, despite the odds.

Glory takes the throne because she is the dragonet who should have been cared for. She should have been seen, noticed, and saved. She wants to be queen not to have the nicest things, but because someone should care when a dragonet disappears. The first dragon she rescues is a dragonet. She is worthy because Grandeur gave up on her dragonets and her tribe, but Glory refused to give up.

Coral isn’t a good dragon; her abuses and her absolute classist nature are abhorrent. However, she is marked by her craze as she watched as so many of her daughters were crushed in their eggs. The horror of losing a child is what marks a queen, in some shape or form. Orca was not worthy of the throne, because before she even challenged her mother, she devised a way to kill every dragonet that could challenge her before they so much as crawled out of their egg.

What one truly has to wonder is when the rules changed. When did it become a rule that to become queen, there had to be a fight to the death? When did mothers find themselves pitted against daughters, sisters, nieces, all for the power of the throne she has? Who came up with the deadly challenge?

One can only wonder.

[mutualmango]

reading some of the book v audiobook discourse, and i’ll say this: come for the audiobook listeners if you want (i do both, idc) but i’ll die on the hill that listening to another person read is closer to actively engaging with literature than whatever those “””speed readers””” are up to

[violetclarity]

am now in the ‘post-amazing series’ phase where I want to read something new but my standards are temporarily incredibly high, so I need to read something really good but I have no idea what that will be

[jewishcissiekj]

JESUS

[gracejones]

My reading goal this year was to read two books per quarter (or eight total) I just finished Tina’s biography which puts me back on track!

This is my next read, super quick. And that will put me at 7/8!

Once I finish the audiobook for Interview With the Vampire (which I admit I’m not enjoying as much as I thought I would. The TV Show and the movie are def my preferred mediums for that story - sorry Ms. Rice) I will have reached my goal!

It’s nice to have reached it before the year is out, I’m glad my depression hasn’t totally ruined reading for me again

[iishmael]

Ok I finished the Silmarillion!!!! God it was so so so so so so good I can’t believe I never read it before

[taylorfennersbookishworld]

2024 Audiobook Challenge Intentions

Hey Bookdragons! In 2024 I’m taking the enjoyment I found in audiobooks in 2023 and challenging myself to read even more audiobooks than last year (or even just as many)! The 2024 Audiobook Challenge is hosted by Kimberly @ Caffeinated Reviewer and the team at That’s What I’m Talking About! How it Works: Choose your level and get those audiobooks ready. Whether you are an audio virgin or an…

[baby-zakarii]

Agere activities for low energy littles😴

⭐️Color in bed

⭐️Listen to an audiobook

⭐️Listen to some soft music

⭐️Take a nap with your stuffies

⭐️Watch a calm cartoon (Winnie the Pooh, In the Night Garden)

⭐️Play with your toys while laying on a blanket/carpet

⭐️Take a bubble bath

⭐️Make jewelery

⭐️Play some mobile games

⭐️Make a character in picrew

For some of us walking or sitting by the desk can be challenging, so all of these are the activities which you can enjoy without moving much!

[snakespeare]

I hate audible I hate audible

[mearcatsreturns]

I have a bookstagram, and I recently followed someone because they posted about the overconsumption issue that most bookish social media seems to have. Today, though, they posted another controversial "opinion": that listening to audiobooks isn't reading, and people who claim to have read a bunch of books that they listened to as audiobooks are lying and/or deluded. Listening to audiobooks, she said, is just consuming books.

I disagreed in a fairly politely worded reply, and I intend to unfollow/block, because I find it unlikely this person will change their mind, especially since I'm far from the only person to point out that this is exclusionary and ableist. But this is tumblr/my house, and now I'm going to be as blunt as I want to be.

I'm a librarian and archivist. So much of the work I and others in my field do focuses on making books and reading more accessible and less exclusionary. It is, in fact, incredibly ableist to negate how important audiobooks are for people who have certain disabilities or challenges, and I would in no universe say they aren’t reading. For that matter, a busy person who only has time for audiobooks and for people who just prefer them--it still counts, as far as I'm concerned.

See, there's a difference between an audiobook and a podcast or long song or radio program. An audiobook is still a book--it was written with a particular narrative structure, and the author plays a defined but limited role (once the book is written, it's written; the author isn't tuning in next episode with comments and corrections based on what listeners said). An audiobook is a book, ergo, listening to one is reading. Using braille is reading, and listening to audiobooks is reading.

The part that has me in full Captain Raymond Holt "apparently that is a trigger for me" mode is that this bookstagrammer called listening to audiobooks consumption. In the context of her other posts about overconsumption as an issue in the bookish community (again, agree, but also...mind your own business), this seems particularly insidious to me. Conflating influencer-driven (and capitalist hellscape) consumption with listening to an audiobook (again, a massive boon for the visually impaired and those with disabilities like ADHD, dyslexia, etc.) is rude at best and dangerously exclusionary at worst. Stop letting comparison be the thief of joy; mind your own business and stop looking at the pages that bother you. Focus on the kindness of leaning towards inclusion, meeting people where they are, and leaving judgment behind.*

*This person also said "feel free to comment if you disagree but please don't be mean or judgmental," as if they hadn't just posted the most ableist and judgmental sludge I've seen today.

tl;dr: don’t be a gatekeeping shithead, mind your own business, and

(gif by matalyn on tenor, couldn't find on tumblr)

[the-delta-quadrant]

sighted people are the only people who get weird about blind people using words like "see" or "read".

it challenges sighted people's misconception that to be blind always means seeing nothing at all, which is not the case for most of us. and sighted people don't like being challenged.

instead they challenge us for using common language, language they'd never challenge another sighted person for. a sighted person saying "see you later" to someone they only speak to on the phone is fine, but a blind person saying they watched TV is outrageous. we are not allowed to words that refer to seeing even metaphorically, while sighted people feel entitled to use blindness as a derogatory metaphor constantly. we aren't allowed to use normal language, because the way we do things couldn't possibly be normal. the way we read books or watch films or live our entire lives is seen as lesser, which is how we get things like "listening to audiobooks doesn't count as reading" discourse. the way people try to exclude us from using normal language is equivalent to how they exclude us from things in general.

and it's not like we can just switch to "i listened to the newspaper", "i felt this book" or "i listened to a film" either, because people will either be very confused and need explanation or they'll accuse us of trying to be special when they're the ones pushing us to use such othering language in the first place.

it's obvious that we can't win. we're expected to act as sighted as possible but still can never be good enough to use "their" language, but when we use different language it's not right either. whatever we say and do is wrong, because it all goes back to the very way we exist being seen as wrong in a deeply ableist society.

[waywardxwords]

Chapter 1 - Rules Were Meant for Breaking (Taking Chances)

Summary: You meet a mysterious man on your flight. When a long travel day turns even longer, you find yourself breaking all of your personal rules as you get to know the stranger.

Pairing: Dean Winchester x Female Reader (no real romance happens in this one, though I am actually considering making this into a series so there may be more to come!)

Word Count: ~3k

Warnings: Slight language

A/N: This was meant to be Day 13 of the #flufftober (@flufftober) challenge. I had to travel for work this week, so it's late. Oops! The prompt was: Wrong (...). I hope you enjoy!

This day had felt like it would never end, but you knew it had only really started as you planned to head into the office for a handful of meetings. You boarded your flight from Atlanta, Georgia to Salina, Kansas. Flying Southwest, you had landed an aisle seat as you ensured you checked-in exactly twenty-four hours beforehand. 

A tall, built man eyed the aisle seat on the row next to you. He lifted his duffel bag to the overhead luggage bin and plopped his backpack on the floor under the seat in front of him. You could tell he wasn’t a frequent flier, as he sat and quickly buckled his seat belt. You smiled to yourself, but popped your earpods in your ears and listened to the audiobook start to play. 

Out of your peripheral vision, you eyed the man carefully. You’d be lying to yourself if you thought he wasn’t attractive. But you knew better than that. The career you had started years ago had become something important to you, and while the work was hard and the days were long—you were proud of your accomplishments and independence. There wasn’t any room for an attractive man in your life. But you couldn’t argue with the fact that he was nice to look at. 

The plane took off without incident, but you couldn’t help but notice how the passenger to your right gripped his arm rests as you moved through the bumps one would during take off. 

Everything changed, though, as you approached Kansas City. The ding of the intercom system throughout the plane sounded over the words of your audiobook, and you reached up to pause your earbud. 

“Good afternoon, folks, this is your captain speaking,” the man’s voice sounded. “Unfortunately we have some inclement weather in Salina and we’ve been told by the Air Traffic Controller that we can’t land right now. We are going into a holding pattern. I’ll update you as soon as I know more.”

There were a few grumbles and groans amongst the passengers, but this wasn’t anything too new for you. The man in the aisle seat next to you caught your attention. 

“Great,” he groaned and closed his eyes. You were drawn to the way his jaw muscle tightened as he clenched his teeth. 

“I hate when they have us go into a holding pattern,” you offered him a sympathetic smile. His green eyes popped open as he looked back at you. 

“Is this a thing? Does this happen a lot?” His questions confirmed your earlier suspicions–he wasn’t used to flying.

You shrugged with a small nod. “Eh, sometimes. I’ve noticed it happens a lot in Kansas with the tornadoes and all,” you explained. “Usually we’ll circle for a bit and then get the clearance to land.”

He nodded as he processed your words. “Here’s hopin’ that clearance comes ASAP. I just wanna get off this damn plane.” You nodded in agreement. As you circled, you closed your eyes a bit, in hopes that you’d soon start to feel the plane begin to descend and the landing gear move into place.

But that didn’t happen. After forty-five minutes, the ding sounded from the intercom once more.

“What now?” The man grumbled as you peeled your ears to listen over the hum of the engines.

“Sorry folks, we are being told that we are not going to be able to land for the foreseeable future. We have decided to head back to Atlanta where we will re-fuel and get a new crew assigned. We will have to wait to hear from ATC on when we can return to Salina.” The groans and grumbles from everyone aboard the flight were audible now. You closed your eyes in annoyance, but when you opened them, you felt bad for the man next to you. He seemed visibly upset as he ran his palms against his jean-clad thighs. He leaned forward a bit to try to catch a glimpse out of the window down his row, and his left foot bobbed up and down as he tapped it against the floor of the plane.

You leaned towards him across the aisle a bit. “Sorry, I know that’s probably not what you wanted to hear.”

His head turned back towards you. “Yeah,” he breathed. While he still seemed nervous, you could tell he was trying to hide it. “This ever happen to you before?”

“Once,” you nodded. “The airline took good care of us, though. Usually, they offer up free booze as a consolation prize.” You said with a smile.

His eyebrows raised as he processed what you had said. “Hm, now that’s something I could get on board with.” You chuckled softly with a nod.

You put your hand out and offered him your name.

“Dean,” he smiled back at you and took your palm. His hands were as large as they looked, and you felt like his grip almost swallowed yours. 

“Nice to meet you, Dean,” you managed to practically squeak out and hoped he hadn’t heard how unsure of yourself you were over the roar of the engines. 

Over the course of the two hours it took to get back to Atlanta, you and Dean busied yourselves with conversation—you learned he had a younger brother and the two of them had taken on the family business (though you weren’t really certain what the family business was, exactly. Dean hadn’t gone into great detail, but something about extermination?). The brothers lived in Kansas, born and raised–but they traveled a lot by car. He shared that he would rather spend twenty-four hours driving than get on a plane, but he had an urgent matter to attend to in Atlanta and driving just wasn’t an option. He didn’t speak about his parents, and you chose not to pry. But he was funny, and quick-witted. Two things that only added to his physical attraction. 

“Flight attendants, prepare for landing,” the pilot’s voice spoke over the intercom once more. 

You were glad that Dean seemed a little more relaxed during landing, given the circumstances. But you also wondered if he had put up a mask for your sake, to not seem nervous or afraid. 

Once the plane touched down and taxied to the gate you had departed almost six hours prior, the flight attendant came over the intercom. “Alright folks, we know it’s going to be at least an hour before we can give you additional updates. You’re free to get off of the aircraft, but please stay in the terminal. We will call you back to the gate once we know more over the PA system.” 

Passengers started to stand and gather any personal items they wanted to take with them. Your eyes traveled to Dean, and you realized he was watching you. 

“Wanna grab some food and a drink?” He asked, almost cautiously. 

No harm in that, the thought rang through your brain. “Sure,” you nodded, with the simpler answer. Dean held out his hand in a gesture for you to lead the way. 

As you exited the aircraft onto the jet bridge that led the way from the plane to the gate, Dean struck up conversation again. “You know this airport better than me. Any ideas on where we could go?” 

“Hmm,” you hummed as you processed what was in this terminal. “Atlanta doesn’t have a lot, but I know there’s a Longhorn Steakhouse in this terminal.” You suggested. A quick glance to his face confirmed that it sounded good to him. 

“Steak and beer? My kinda place,” he smiled. His smile sent a shiver down your spine. While you held tight to the fact that dating wasn’t in the cards for you–especially with some stranger from Kansas who you would have otherwise never met–you couldn’t help but feel a little giddy that you would get to spend a little more time with the handsome, mysterious passenger from your flight.

“Let’s do it,” you grinned as you walked dangerously close. For every stride he took, you felt like you had to take two in order to keep up. 

It was a short walk to the restaurant, and thankfully there weren’t a ton of people, so you were able to find a quiet table towards the back. It was a small half-booth, so you and Dean sat on the same bench with a table top just in front of you.

“Welcome to Longhorn,” the waitress beamed as she placed two drink napkins down in front of you both. “My name’s Casey, can I start y’all off with any drinks or an appetizer?” She asked as she produced a notepad from her front apron.

“I’ll have a glass of cabernet and water,” you smiled at her as you looked over the menu. “No appetizers for me.”

“Coors for me, if you have it,” Dean’s eyes wandered the menu. Casey nodded. “No apps for me, we’ll just take a minute to look over the menu.”

“Sure thing, I’ll get those drinks right over,” Casey headed back for the bar.

You didn’t realize you were staring at him until Dean’s tongue darted out to wet his lips and his eyelids fluttered slightly as he read over the menu. The lighting in the steakhouse was dim, but the hanging pendant over the table cast a yellowish glow across his features. You hadn’t noticed his freckles before, but swore you could have counted them under the glow.

“So,” Dean’s gruff voice interrupted your thoughts and you hurriedly looked away in an attempt to not get caught staring. “What are you getting? The porterhouse is calling my name.” 

“Oh, uh, you already decided?” How long was I staring? Your thoughts ran together as you quickly tried to look over the menu.

“Steak is easy, sweetheart,” he chuckled softly as he glanced back down at the menu. He almost cut himself off as he realized sweetheart had just rolled off of his tongue. It almost looked like he wanted  to apologize for it, or take it back–but when he saw you hadn’t flinched, he let it hang in the air. You surprised yourself by liking it…

“Hmm,” you murmured as your eyes grazed the menu. “Probably the sirloin, with loaded mashed potatoes and a mixed green salad.” You said with certainty as you closed your menu and placed it at the end of the table.

“Alright, I see you with the loaded mashed potatoes, but you can keep your rabbit food,” he put his menu on top of yours.

A laugh rumbled in your chest. “Okay, food connoisseur,” you rolled your eyes. You surprised yourself again when you gave his shoulder a playful shove. “What are your two sides?”

“Loaded mashed potatoes,” he agreed with you with a firm nod. “And the steakhouse mac and cheese.” 

“Two carbs, love it,” you teased slightly with a wink. 

“Listen, carbs have never done me wrong,” Dean teased back. “The way I see it, life is short. Eat the damn potatoes.” 

“I feel like that should be on a bumper sticker,” you mused as Casey returned with your drinks. 

“Y’all ready to order?” She asked with a smile. 

You started your order as you had relayed to Dean, but paused when it came time for your second side. You hesitated for a moment before you glanced at him. His eyebrows were raised, as if he were egging you on. 

“Ah, screw it,” you mumbled. “Loaded potatoes and the mac and cheese, please.” 

“Atta girl,” Dean seemed pleased. For the first time in a very long time, you had gone against the grain. You had always followed a subset of rules for yourself—as silly as it may sound, that even applied to food. Protein, carb, vegetable. Always. But something was different; Dean was different. 

After Dean ordered, Casey headed back to send your selections off to the kitchen. 

“I’ve never done that before,” you almost sounded giddy, but you couldn’t help it. 

Dean seemed perplexed. “…ordered food?” He asked, unsure of what you meant. 

“No!” You laughed as you took a sip of your water. “Ordered two carbs? I know it probably sounds so stupid…” you nibbled at the inside of your lip as you tried to process what you were trying to say. “I’ve always just had these rules for myself.” You took a breath as you tried to think of an example. “Okay, like: wait thirty minutes after you eat before you swim. Or don’t have sex on the first date.” The words slipped from your lips before you could stop them. But they had already landed and Dean choked on the water he had just sipped from his glass. 

“Jesus,” he laughed. 

“Sorry, that was awkward,” you felt the heat rise in your cheeks. “The point is…I’ve just always followed rules. They’re ingrained in me, I guess.”

“Darlin’,” Dean started slowly. “In my world, rules have always been meant to be broken.” 

You weren’t sure what he intended with that statement, but it made your breath hitch in your throat. Against your better judgment (or rules, rather), you raised your glass of wine towards him. 

“I’ll drink to that,” you said softly. His eyes held your gaze carefully in his before he reached for his beer and clinked it against yours. 

“To breaking the rules,” he said gently. 

“To breaking the rules,” you repeated before you both took a sip. 

“Okay, okay,” you laughed at something your newfound friend had said in this silly game you had created as you ate your meals. “Would you rather…be stuck in a ring with a pissed off bull, or travel by plane?”

“Seriously?” He managed a smile. “I can’t believe you haven’t figured this out yet, but sweetheart, it’s always gonna be anything but traveling by plane.”

“Burning building or plane?” You contemplated exasperatedly. 

“Light my ass on fire, still not the plane,” he took another swig of his second beer. 

“Jesus,” you mumbled. “You really don’t like flying, huh?” As if on cue, you heard the call for the passengers on your plane to return to the gate. You had already settled the bill, but you each pulled out cash for the tip.

“Guess I gotta face my fears at some point,” Dean grumbled as you headed out of the restaurant. 

“Aw, it’s okay,” you felt more comfortable giving him a little grief as you patronized. “I can hold your hand if you’d like.” You winked. 

He stared back at you with a confident smile etched across his lips. “That a promise, darlin’?” 

Your brain told you it was wrong, but your body chose to ignore it as you managed a nod. Dean smiled. 

As you approached the gate agent, you heard bits and pieces of conversations that didn’t sound too promising. Once you and Dean were next in line, the agent offered a sympathetic smile. 

“Unfortunately, we aren’t going to be able to get you to Salina tonight. We have an extra flight added first thing tomorrow morning, and Southwest will put you in a hotel near the airport for tonight. You can go ahead and show your boarding pass to retrieve your bags. Did either of you have anything checked?” She asked. You and Dean both shook your heads ‘no’. “Great, here are your hotel vouchers. There’s a shuttle that runs from the airport. And I’ll reprint your boarding passes for the flight out tomorrow.”

“Looks like we live another day,” Dean joked as you walked the jet bridge once more to get your carry-on bags. You rolled your eyes, but smiled. 

“My boss is gonna be so pissed,” you mumbled. “I had a huge presentation today and so much work I had promised to get done. I have a personal rule that I don’t break work promises. Ever.” 

“Look at you, little rule breaker,” Dean playfully nudged your shoulder. His words caused you to smile once more. 

“You’re rubbing off on me,” you teased back. 

Once you had gathered the items you had left on the plane, you and Dean headed back into the terminal and towards the shuttle pick up. 

You typed out a note to your boss, keeping him in the loop of your travel plan changes. Then there were a few emails, and you forwarded your presentation material to your colleague who would need to cover on your behalf. In no time, you were on the shuttle headed to the hotel. 

Dean seemed much more relaxed, but also seemed to be lost in thought a bit. “You okay?” You asked as you finally glanced up from the iPhone in your hands. 

“Oh, I’m fine,” he answered quickly. He eyed you for a moment just as the shuttle pulled up to the hotel. “Uh, you wanna hang out? We could watch a movie or grab some drinks at the bar?” You couldn’t quite place it, but he seemed nervous to ask. 

“Dean…” you started slowly. “I just think…” your words failed you as you tried to explain—your priorities were a lot different than other women your age. 

“Hey, I get it,” he shook his head. “It’s okay, don’t worry about it, alright?”

“It’s just the wrong place—” he cut you off before you could finish. 

“Wrong place, wrong time,” he smiled kindly at you. “I understand, and it’s okay.” He shrugged the strap to his duffel bag over his shoulder. “It was really nice meeting you, sweetheart. Truly. Thanks for keeping my brain busy so I didn’t worry about flying.” He smirked. 

He started to walk towards the reception desk inside the lobby. You stood for a moment and bit at the inside of your lip again. Just as before, your brain told you to stop before you could process it. 

“Dean, wait!” You called after him. Your feet carried you quickly in his direction as he began to turn around. “Rules were meant for breaking, right?” You breathed as you saw the glimmer in his eyes. He smiled with a nod. 

“Alright, then,” he beamed as he held his hand out for you to walk in first. “What’ll it be, bar or a movie? Pick your poison.” 

The heat rose in your cheeks as you pushed out every fear that had ever consumed you of following some plan or holding tight to some stupid rule. “Who said we have to choose? Why not both?” 

He chuckled. “Atta girl.” 

The feelings that bubbled in your chest left you feeling breathless, and you felt excited for the first time in a very long time.

Read Chapter 2 - Nothing to Lose Here!

Thank you so much for reading! So, while my travel experience this week wasn't this bad, I did end up having to return to my original destination due to weather and spent 15+ hours traveling on Thursday when it should have only taken me ~6ish. Lol. Not thrilled. Unfortunately, Dean Winchester wasn't on my flight, BUT that experience inspired this story!

I really love the dynamic between Dean and the reader in this one, and I feel like the story isn't finished. Possibly more to come? Let me know if you'd like to see more from these two!

Tag List:

@jackles010378 @ladysparkles78 @hallecarey1 @zepskies @lyarr24 @deans-baby-momma

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[azsazz]

💐 Dad!Az anon!!

Putting your message here so i can add a read more, but like i said earlier i don't have any words 😭😭 this is def one of the best asks ive ever gotten before and i'm so so so glad you love dad az as much as I do!!

ugh, i love and miss the babies so so much. and i love you too because this message made me feel so many things that i'm still blushing from reading this!!

yes, the kiddies will someday be developed as my OC's...i have plans :)))) 💙💙

Hi Kiers! I have returned, alas, and I have come with me and my complete brainrot. (I am crazy) Without further ado, here is everything I have to say about Daddy!Az and the rest of the Legion. Some might be complete brain rot, while the others fall in the middle or are actually (somewhat) legible literary analyses! just so you know, this is really long. i tried adding a read more button but I don't know if that's available for asks? i distinctly remember it being available... but it is what it is😔

One More: 🫦🫦🫦🫦🫦 SOME MIGHT SAY FIRST IS THE WORST BUT THIS FIRST ONESHOT TO START US OFF?? NOT THE WORST. FAR FROM IT, ACTUALLY. I don’t know if people say it enough, but I adore how you write smut. I have one emotion: 🫦🫦🫦🫦🫦🫦🫦🫦🫦🫦🫦🫦🫦🫦🫦🫦🫦🫦🫦🫦🫦🫦🫦🫦🫦🫦🫦🫦🫦

Family Dynamic: First, I love how your first thought was to go “Oh hell yeah! Daddy!Az! I should make a story about the birthorder of the children!” GOLDEN. your brain has veins with gold flowing through them. COMPLETELY and utterly ASTONISHING how they just come one after the other it’s hilarious?? im reeling😭 AND IRS SO CUTE HOW YOU INCLUDE LIKE LITTLE EXCERPTS OF DOMESTIC LIFE ARE YOU KIDDING ME? THAT’S SO ADORABLE. what gets me most, however, is the last few paragraphs. It’s like, it completely encompasses the reader’s (our) content and it’s so accurate and beautifully worded I can’t help but commend you for it. Plus, Cassian’s immediate “Oh No” gets me everytime😭😭

Keep Me Satisfied: “Going to fuck so many into you, love. A whole litter, I promise.” GET. THE. FUCK. OUT. 🫦 i literally HAVE NO WORDS?? I have no words! I literally have NO words besides the sentence “i HAVE NO WORDS”?? GOT ME FUCKED UP, GOT ME FUCKED OUT, GOT ME FUCKED???? HELLO??? HAS ANYONE EVER TOLD YOU THE WAY YOU WRITE SPICE IS LIKE OTHERWORLDLY TYPE OF IMPRESSIVE?

Hush Little Baby: This is like throwing the first ever blanket I had as a baby straight at me. It’s so familiar, and warm, and It makes me nostalgic because I was once a baby too (weren’t we all?), and I had the same wide eyes Azriel observed in his own babe. This oneshot makes me so happy, & I can’t fully articulate it

Here’s To Tradition Kiers give us a goddamn break or a glass of water to wash down the sugar challenge FAILED MISERABLY i look at nyx, giddy, and wren and all i want to do is CRY and HOLD THEM. I CAN’T EVEN LIKE… I DON’t KNOW HOW TO….ARTICUATE…I WANT TO HOLD. they’re like so little:(((( and im :((( i :((

You Too: I love your writing so much. need I say more. if I do then uhh err rhow do I get my thoughts out what if I just sscream in text AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH

Can’t You See?: IM CRYINGGGG WREN:( he’s such a sweet, sweet boy and when i first started reading this series i was really excited to see how he’d grow up and it’s just. wow. seeing him so happy makes me so happy. your writing makes me so happy “The little boy even tries to show off his own shadows, “Just like my daddy’s!” He sees both Rhys and Cassian watching with their own fond smiles, silently agreeing with every loving word pouring from the little boy's mouth.” PAUSE. I NEED TO CRY

Concord: I really like how you emphasize the bat babies innocence here. Unlike their fathers, from what I remember because I find it truly hard to focus when i read and like to listen to audiobooks as an alternative, the bat babies have a more stable childhood. theyre surrounded by safe environments, and they see that their parents have these funky little markings on parts of their body and they want to have that too. they hear stories of promises and the like and they want that too. they want what the inner circle have and so they try to ensure they get it and it BACKFIRES ON THEM THEYRE SO:( I feel😞 and WRENNIE ASKING IF NYXIE AND GIDDY CAN STAY FOR SUPPER ?!!!!! I CRY.

come back: 😞😞😞i 😞😞😞😞😞😞😞😞😞😞😞😞😞😞😞😞😞😞😞😞😞😞😞😞😞😞😞😞😞😞😞😞😞😞😞love😞😞😞😞😞😞😞😞😞the😞😞😞😞😞😞familyness😞😞😞😞😞😞😞😞😞😞😞icryicryicry😞😞😞😞😞😞

Burning Man: Hi! You wound me with your writing sometimes. The utter devastation I feel whenever you write angst is inexplicable! There is truly nothing like it! I did like the comfort right after though. Dad!Az you are my roman empire😞

Promise: GET THE FUCK OUTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTT I AM GOING TO CRYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYY IM SORRU ITS JUST SOMETIMES WHENEVER YOU WRITE ABT THE BABIES THEY’RE LIKE SO WONDERFULLY PORTRAYED.. l CRY I CRY I CRY ITS TAKING EVERYTHING IN ME NOT TO HOLD BAZ RN

Summer Daze: I love how you give us a little peek into Mama’s relationship with the other women, Nes in particular!! i love Nes and i hold her close to my heart so this little peek made me really happy. Especially at how cute her relationship with Cas is, even if its just brushed over:((( its so cute!!!!!! And Azzy kissing Mama’s belly:( that’s so sweet and tender

Two is Better than one: I. LOVE SCENES LIKE THIS. Where a character is thanking and worshipping the person that’s giving them children, blessing them with new life—an extension of love and care; it’s just so intimate and i treasure it and you write it so well it near kills me to stop reading😭 I really really like that addition:(

Taciturn: Punchign wall.😭☹️☹️😭😞☹️😞☹️☹️😭☹️😞☹️☹️☹️☹️☹️☹️😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😞😞😞😞😞😞😞😞 baz they will never make me hate u “How come knoxie doesnt cry like Malos does” HELPPPPPP☹️☹️☹️☹️ “Its okay mommy, i’ll talk for him!” can we get more baz n knox pls. pls. thats truly so sweet.

In the House love built: the way you write smut is so intimate sometimes, and it’s so loving and you encapsulate the bond between mates so well. you’re truly worthy of all the attention you’ve received on this platform

The Calm Beneath The Storm: ☹️ pleaaaase i love how the childrens bonds are so evident and well written too and i just.i just cant properly sayhow much comfort i find in series like this and i cant properly say how much comfort i find in writing like yours ure so good kiers omf

Cuddle Me In: Jax is like living tylenol in a baby im not joking . he fixes ALL my headaches. hes so adorbsicles no one speak to me at all i cry i cry i cry☹️😞☹️😞☹️ punchign. wall

The Rowdy Bunch: Azriel really knows how to man up huh god he’s so fine in rhis one miss kiers u made him sso fine

The HoneyCrisp Grove: 😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭 ARE YOU KIDDING ME THATS SO ADORABLE

Winter Wind: I just think it’s REALLY funny that you deliver honeycrisp grove and suddenly i get hit in the face with 💥BOOM ZUZU CRYING SO HARD HER VOICE IS HOARSE 💥BOOM MAMA GETTING STABBED BY A DISTANT RELATIVE 💥BOOM “help me” WHY ARE YOU DOING THIS TO ME. do u drink your readers TEARS for breakfast (this is my way of saying this story is well written and perfect)

Sticking Together: UGHH THIS IS SO:((( I WOULD LOVE FOR AN EXTENSION ON THIS!! like just seeing the #boys and their journey throughout windhaven would be so sad but also such an exciting read?? I hope we get to see how their bond grew because of it, or how it was maintained:(( i really like this story!!

Snatched: Complete rollercoaster of emotions btw. A bunch of ups and downs and round and rounds and i came out dizzy and dazed and possibly bleeding internally. W Eris I love him in this you portray him so well🙏🙏 And also once again. BAZ AND KNOX. GOD. MAKES ME SICK TO MY STOMACH WITH WARMTH.

No tricks, Just Treats: little knox is so precious to me. like he’s just so sweet. and also i remember you mentioning in the batbabies doc that wren, gideon, and nyx had the same dynamic as rhys, cas, and az so thejr costumes are a pretty good touch:D this is the perfect amount of fluff

In Ribbons:

“Baby, baby,” he begs, raising up as far as he can, voice lined with desperation and hazel eyes wide, “I didn’t mean to–” 🫦🫦🫦🫦🫦🫦🫦🫦🫦🫦🫦🫦🫦🫦🫦🫦🫦🫦🫦🫦🫦🫦🫦🫦🫦🫦🫦🫦🫦🫦🫦🫦🫦🫦🫦🫦🫦🫦🫦🫦🫦🫦🫦🫦🫦🫦🫦🫦🫦🫦🫦🫦🫦🫦🫦🫦🫦🫦🫦🫦🫦🫦🫦 HELLO

Unwrapped: “Zuzu and Jax must be on waking you and your mate duty as they’re already climbing up into your bed. Your oldest daughter, ever the determined one, uses all of her strength to pull herself up onto the plush bed, only slipping once.” ZUZU GET BEHIND ME ILL PROTECT YOU 🤺🤺🤺🤺 HUZZAH shes so cute . i love zuzu so much, shes such a sweetie:(( your stories are like huge rollercoasters tbh one moment az is wrapped in ribbons and then the next the kids are fighting over presents and im here for it!! AND ALSO JAX AND AMREN & jax and rhys mention wow. god i love them i love how you put in effort to establish dynamics not only between the family but between the extended family too!?!

Into The New: I LOVE ZUZ SOOSOSOSMUCH:( she triggers fond memories of my own childhood. The way more of her dynamic with the orher members of the inner circle is expanded on in this story is so so sweet. I LOVE scenes where young characters see love blossom between people and KNOW that its love and WANT it but also at the same time i recall seeing an ask where you mentioned if Zuzu ever had a mate she’d think of herself as unworthy which … which is making me connect dots🙏 im trying to connect dots here cuz I SEE THE VISION but im trying to see the TRUE EXTENT OF THE VISION

Here for You: the Zuzu Rules Shirts?? I love Uncle Rhys😭 he’s so real for that tho. toss me one and watch me wear it with pride ??? i love the little things you add into your stories thatninclude the dynamic between characters:(( and also Zuz here being so happy and fulfilled makes ME happy and fulfilled. shes MY BABY.

Between Me & You: “This one’s for all the Jax girlies” ME🙌 JAX IS MY BOY🙏🙏 but also Baz calling Jax “J” is so corny and brother-core!!! (i dunno how else to describe it but i love it) also Bryaxis and Jax⁉️ FRIENDSHIP⁉️🙏 IM ALL FOR IT and i love how we see remnants of Jax’s journey into being able to control his power:((( i hope we get to see more of him (and Knox and baz . i love knox and baz)sometime!

The SafeGuard: IM TELLING YOU IM CONNECTING THE DOTS⁉️🙏 read:. im tripping over protective father azriel and giggling like a complete fool

Warrior Status: I. LOVE. WHEN. YOU. WRITE. SCENES. LIKE. THIS. ITS SO… IRHFJDJD LIKE WHEN YOU GO MORE IN DEPTH INTO THE LORE AND HOW NEW GEN IS HANDLING THE BLOOD RITE AND HOW THEIR PARENTS TRAIN THEM FOR IT IS MAKING ME HRISIDOOD ITS MAKING ME SO HAPPY but also wow. wow um the tension here is real. i always expect a rollercoaster of emotions whenever i read your writing and yet im blown away every time. i love baz, he seems to be capable of more than even he knows, and i hineslty hope theres more content so we cannall see how he’s faring:)

About Last Night:

“If we get caught,” Gideon defends, before adding as an afterthought, eyebrows furrowed, “And she’s not my girlfriend.” LOUDDDD INCORRECT BUZZER❌❌❌❌❌ W W W WRONGGGGG WRONG. EVERYONE KNOWS‼️ i love how giddy is the one who suggests going to autumn primarily to see his girl. it’s very cassian core to me as much as cassian himself disapproves😭 and KNOX’S LITTLE ‘im sorry’ PLEAAASEE THATS SO FUNNY

Torrential: This was actually the first story I read about the batbabies:) I was like, “oh my gosh who is Knox? I didn’t know there was a book out for next gen………… “ i was like genuinely so confuzzled. and this was like a few weeks ago. i didnt even know rhat Knox was an oc but I had, and still have a raging crush on him😞 I truly hope that you take the next gen and turn them into full fledged original characters of yours, i’d love to see them developed to their full extent especially with the teaser i get in this fic. like hello? Knox? River Keeper?? Okay I see you!! THE WAY YOU PORTRAY KNOX HERE UGHHHHHHHHHH HE’S SO LIKE UGHHHHHHHHHH UGHHHHHHHHHHHHH😡😡😡 (positive)

“His lips pull high into a wicked smile. One side curls higher than the other and it’s the first imperfect thing you’ve noticed about him, yet it still makes your breath hitch.” woo that got me. that got me good. you’re excellent

Our Souls Are Stars & Mine Is Forever Yours: kiers your BEAUTIFUL BRAIN is BRAINING again. this is my favorite scoop of content for the batbabies. Maude & Giddy are truly so adorable, and you really did a good job at sparking chemistry between them both. Maude trying to calm Gideon down, Gideon leading Maude to the famous balcony I CRY. I WEEP. HEAD IN HANDS. I WAILLLL I WAIL IN JOY IM SO? YOURE SO GOOD AT WRITING KIERS HOLY FUCK?!?! YOU NEVER FAIL TO IMPRESS ME

to my heart: ouuuuu… okay i see you kiers….i love this oneshot, it’s like really sweet but in a quiet subtle way and i love it when oneshots are like that. Knox’s banter with Malos, knox waiting for a reply… Kiers genuinely bless your heart

Undercover: Jax, Knox, Baz. you will always be the number one’s of my heart. NOW THAT THAT IS DISCLOSED CAN I PLEASE SAY I LOVE HOW YOU WRITE CHARACTERS PINING. LIKE JAX THIS WHOLE ONESHOT IS JUST “grrrrrrrrrrrrr dont you notice me?? 😡😡” and “wait nevermind its not time yet☹️😞☹️” at the last second and hes just so cute in this oneshot but i feel so bad for him (can we get the batbabies dapping eachother up to commemorate the jax and knox interaction in this fic yall!?!)

Jax uses his powers at a party: Heehehehhehehehehehehhehehehe wowwwwwwwwwwww hes like protecting her from afar heheheheh i giggled

Jax finds out Knox’s mating bond has been found out: I LOVE THE CALL BACK TO THIS IN UNDERCOVER. I want to see how the whole family reacts to Knox’s mating bond in the future, hopefully!! It’d definitely be very chaotic, especially if it’s the whole family!!

Bryaxis calls Jax a friend: “There's this boy at my school. His name is Montauk. He always gives me trouble, pushing and shoving me, calling me names…" Jax trails off, his tiny hands clenching into fists, "But I've felt his true emotions, and he's just a sad, scared little boy too."” :((( the “too” at the end im inconsolable. I want to hold each and every one of your next gen characters. pls.

Uncle Cassian’s reaction to finding out Jax wants to be friends with Bryaxis: Cassian is my spirit animal. and i LOVE the way you portray him 😭 he’s so funny i feel like he’d bark if I told him he was my spirit animal

What if Zuzu had gotten her wings clipped at the Steppes? I CRY I CRY I CRY I CRY. UGHHH how you detail Azriel’s devastation and at the same time Zuzu’s acceptance TEARS THROUGH ME. Zuzu is such a strong character and theres nothing to thank for that other than your immaculate writing skills

Zuzu Gets a Cat but it loves Azriel the Most + Wren, Baz, and Zuzu work together to try and convince their parents to get a second cat: I wholeheartedly believe wren, baz, and zuzu were probably nicknamed the triple trouble primarlt because of their tendency to pull shit like this and i LOVE it its so funny. I love your writing sm

I don’t know if you can tell, but I have an actually very secure AND VERY!! NORMAL attachment to this series. And I don’t have anyone to thank but you for writing it and writing it so beautifully; you truly have a gift and I know that it will get you a bunch of amazing opportunities in the future, or even now. I can feel how much work and effort goes into your writing, and the fact that you share it is an honor in itself and I’m so glad to have stumbled across your blog. You are an amazing writer. I look forward to reading more of your writing, not just for Daddy!Az—although I’d love for more of him—but even without him, I’d still love every piece of yours. I honestly hope the next gen characters become characters you take under your wing and develop, I would love to see more of them and they’re such interesting characters already. They’re so cool. You’re really cool too, Kiers!! I hope you don’t mind it took so long to get back to you, I was balancing cleaning my apartment and binging your writing:D I don’t regret anything. Reading your writing feels like a reward after every hard day. I hope to see more of you on my dash, Kiers!!! Keep writing, with your skills and your beautiful mind—it’ll no doubt help you in the long run. You’re really cool:)

xoxo,

-💐 (the one from about a week ago)

[selfhelpforstudents]

Set specific, achievable goals for your study session: Set a clear goal for what you want to achieve in each study session. For example, "I want to complete the first three chapters of my textbook today."

Create a study schedule and stick to it: Develop a study schedule that works for you and stick to it. For example, "I will study for one hour every day after dinner."

Minimize distractions by finding a quiet place to study: Eliminate distractions that can interfere with your focus. For example, turning off your phone or finding a quiet place to study.

Take regular breaks to avoid burnout and increase focus: Take short breaks every hour or so to recharge and refocus. For example, taking a five-minute break to stretch or grab a snack.

Use active study techniques, such as summarizing, reciting, or creating flashcards: Use active techniques to engage with the material you're studying. For example, summarizing a chapter in your own words or creating flashcards to test your knowledge.

Get organized by using a planner or calendar to keep track of assignments and due dates: Keep track of your assignments and due dates to avoid procrastination. For example, using a planner or calendar to keep track of your deadlines.

Find a study group or accountability partner to keep you motivated: Join a study group or find a partner to keep you accountable and motivated. For example, joining a study group on campus or finding a study partner online.

Use mnemonic devices to help you remember information: Use memory aids, such as acronyms or visual images, to help you remember information. For example, using the acronym "ROY G BIV" to remember the colors of the rainbow.

Stay hydrated and take care of your physical health by eating well and exercising regularly: Take care of your physical health to improve your mental focus. For example, drinking plenty of water and going for a run before a study session.

Make use of study aids, such as textbooks, notes, or online resources: Use study aids to supplement your learning. For example, using a textbook or online resource to help you understand a difficult concept.

Use technology to your advantage, such as apps or online tools for studying: Use technology to enhance your studying. For example, using a study app to practice vocabulary words or online tools for organizing your notes.

Vary your study routine by changing your location or study technique: Change up your study routine to keep it fresh and engaging. For example, studying in a different location or using a different study technique, such as listening to an audiobook instead of reading.

Review your notes regularly to reinforce your learning: Review your notes frequently to help you retain information. For example, reviewing your notes after each class or at the end of each week.

Focus on understanding concepts rather than memorizing facts: Focus on understanding the material rather than memorizing facts. For example, understanding the concepts behind a mathematical formula rather than just memorizing the formula itself.

Test yourself regularly to identify areas that need improvement: Test yourself frequently to identify areas where you need improvement. For example, taking practice quizzes or tests to gauge your understanding.

Use positive self-talk to boost your confidence and motivation: Use positive self-talk to stay motivated and confident. For example, telling yourself "I can do this" when faced with a challenging task.

Avoid procrastination by breaking down large assignments into smaller tasks: Break down large assignments into smaller, manageable tasks to avoid procrastination. For example, breaking down a research paper into smaller tasks such as researching, outlining, and drafting.

Reward yourself after reaching a goal or completing a challenging assignment: When you complete a task or achieve a goal, reward yourself with something that you enjoy. This can help you stay motivated and make the studying process more enjoyable. For example, you could treat yourself to a favorite snack, take a break to watch an episode of your favorite TV show, or go for a walk outside.

Take care of your mental health by practicing self-care and seeking help if needed: Studying can be stressful, so it's important to take care of your mental health. This can include practicing self-care activities such as meditation, exercise, or spending time with friends and family. If you feel overwhelmed or need additional support, don't hesitate to seek help from a trusted friend, family member, or mental health professional.

Stay positive and motivated by focusing on your progress and accomplishments: Studying can be challenging, but it's important to focus on the progress you're making rather than getting discouraged by setbacks or mistakes. Celebrate small wins, such as completing a challenging assignment or understanding a difficult concept. For example, you could keep a study journal where you write down your accomplishments or take time at the end of each day to reflect on what you learned.

Source // Follow my Studygram for more motivation // Join our Discord Server // Follow my Tumblr

Write me a message if you need someone to talk to!

Love, Sophia <3

[transmutationisms]

Long time listener first time caller (well not really I'm pretty sure we've talked about Succession before). I wanna read up more on anti psychiatry but I'm fucking shithouse at reading, are there any like videos or podcasts or audiobooks you'd recommend, because that would make my life ten times easier

yes great question honestly. i haven't heard all of these podcast episodes, but i curated the list based on knowing the speakers' work (not necessarily the podcast hosts/shows!), and i think these are good places to start.

"Debunking the Myth of the Chemical Imbalance with Dr. Joanna Moncrieff" interviewed by Dr. Caroline Leaf

Revolution Health Radio: "Reviewing the Evidence on the Serotonin Theory of Depression, with Dr. Joanna Moncrieff"

Mad in America Radio: Lucy Johnstone on the Power Threat Meaning Framework

NPR Fresh Air: Anne Harrington on psychiatry's "troubled search" for a biological understanding of mental illness

New Books Network: Mical Raz on her book "What's Wrong With the Poor: Psychiatry, Race, and the War on Poverty"

The Mental Breakdown Morning Show: "Bruce Cohen and Psychiatric Hegemony" (Cohen, unlike most on this list, explicitly aims for a marxist explanation and understanding of mental illness)

Madness Radio: "Bipolar Medication Myths" (Joanna Moncrieff interviewed by Will Hall)

What Your GP Doesn't Tell You: "David Healy Discusses SSRI Drugs, Suicide and Sexual Dysfunction"

Coming From Left Field: "The Political Economy of Mental Health Systems with Joanna Moncrieff"

States of Mind: "Mental Illness in America" (includes segments with Katherine Bankole-Medina, Jonathan Metzl, Allan Horwitz, Jamie Cohen-Cole, and Elyn Saks)

Jesse Meadows's podcast on ADHD, "Sluggish" (haven't listened to this one, but have read a lot of their writing; they're challenging the psychiatric view of ADHD as a person who struggles with the symptoms and behaviours the diagnostic label describes)

audio books: i'm honestly not sure where's the best and cheapest place to actually download these from, but i know there are audio books of 'mind fixers' by anne harrington (narrated by joyce bean) and 'desperate remedies' by andrew scull (narrated by jonathan keeble). uh, if anyone has a good list of audiobooks on this lmk :-)

[siena-sevenwits]

As a recovering reader myself, I am here to remind you that if you want to read more but are struggling, you have full permission to do any and all of the following:

Read the ending first, or look up the big spoilers.

Read a summary first, or scene by scene.

Skip around passages/come back to them when you're more ready

Watch the movie/read the graphic novel/look at the fanart first to pique your interest

Write/draw/highlight/scrapbook in the book itself (YOU ARE ALLOWED, assuming the book is yours! THIS MAKES IT A LOVED BOOK! You can also tip in pages specifically for this if you want more room - literally run some glue along the edge of a piece of paper, wedge it as deep as you can between two open pages, close the book and let it dry for a couple of minutes, and voila! Blank pages! I promise you ,you will not accidentally glue your book shut.)

Take the book up again even if it's been "too long" and guilt is telling you that you need to start over for some reason.

Listen to audiobooks only - it's real reading!! Reading is absorbing the words the author wrote, whether through a page recreated by a printing press or a page recreated by the sounds of a human voice!

Speed up or slow down the audiobook

Read at your own speed without regard to challenges or comparison

Use a device

Read the words out loud or under your breath

Have fifteen books on the go at once, or just one

Give up on a book that's not working for you at all, and find a fresh one that works better

Never track your reading

Track your reading meticulously and become addicted to your stats

Make reading more social by reading aloud to someone else, blogging your reading, obnoxiously talking your friend's ear off - whatever you like!

And yes, you can also keep your experience spoiler free, read straight through, keep your book in pristine condition, track your stats meticulously etc. etc.! Those are wonderful too. The point is, don't sabotage your reading with "shoulds," be gentle with yourself, and set yourself up to enjoy it. I'm three years into my recovering reader project, and I still have to be gentle with myself about habits I want to embrace but am not quite there yet.