#I had planned on writing something funny based on my quirky family | Explore Tumblr Posts and Blogs

xxiamtiebrousxx · 1 year

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Hi! Uuuh I've been reading your stories for a while now and I was wondering if I could request a platonic TF2 mercenaries with a Gopnik S/O? A gopnik is basically a young and spunky Russian hoodlum, they're like scout except russian so they're annoying in some ways but still kind and quirky, if the mercs are tired or annoyed S/O usually brings something of a "Peace Offering" or well something small like a cool rock or maybe a bag of food just so the mercs don't get mad at them, S/O is chill out of battle and become friends with the mercenaries up until the mercs ask about their family lofe which suddenly S/O turns cold nd very hostile, they'll snap at the mercs until the topic is changed, its as if the very mention of fmily triggers them

One day after a long while of knowing the mercs or when S/O is drunk they spill their childhood, they had to live through poverty with their family in russia with their parents and baby sister but one day when trying to escape the country they are sent to a gulag, spending a couple of years there until they're 13 when their father gets killed during a revolt S/O, their mum and baby sister escape to the U.S, but both their mother and sister end up dying during the trip so S/O is the only one to make it to the states, their story his the mercenaries in the feels but it hits Heavy the hardest, seeing this spunky, funny and tough Gopnik cry while telling their story

You can ignore this if its to angsty I just got this idea a few minutes ago so I was wondering if you could do it

This was a little hard to write but enjoyable!

Mercs x Gopnik! Reader

A/n: Sorry if it seems I'm stereotyping, I'm not. I did a little bit of research on the internet. If there's anything incorrect, please let me know so I can correct it! WARNING: A bit angsty

Scout:

Scout found you wrestling with someone in an alley. He stopped to watch. You beat them down and took back the bread you had stolen. Scout stopped you. You cursed at him in Russian, kicked both his shins and ran away. The following day, Scout was waiting for you in the alley. You were careful to approach him. You didn’t know who he was and you didn’t trust him either. What if he was here to steal something from you or worse? You were ready to snatch his wallet away from him and run for the hills when all of a sudden, Scout pulled out some money.

“Go buy you some lunch,” he said. He stuffed the dollar bills in your hand and left. After that, you kept coming back. On some days, Scout wouldn’t be there. You thought you did something wrong, like insulting his hair or something. Probably you joke around too much about him being fatherless and he got hurt, emotionally. You didn’t like talking much about family since yours was gone. On your way to the base, you found a sparkling rock and took it. You found out he was merc long ago, but you didn’t mind. Scout was surprised you managed to find him. He rambled about your arrival, a bit annoyed about this. To shut him up about coming onto a dangerous battlefield, you gave him the rock. The plan actually worked and he shut up.

Since Scout agreed to create an allowance for you, you spent the money on paying bills and booze. He’d come over to check on you. You were rambling in Russian about something. Scout chuckled. “Enough booze for you,” he said. You smacked his hand away.

“Nyet,” you answered. “I need more.” You gulped down the last drops and wiped your mouth. “Scout, have I ever told you about how my father used liquor to clean our wounds since we couldn’t afford medical alcohol?” Now this was strange. You never, and Scout knew you never, talked about your family. During your time living in Russia, you had a baby sister, mother and father. You were poor and couldn’t afford much. Your father was part of a revolution that failed. You and your family ended up getting thrown into a gulag. Scout held your hand as you started to cry.

“We don’t have to continue, you know,” he said. You shook your head. You had to finish the story. When you were thirteen years old, your father got killed in another revolt. You managed to escape with your mother and sister. Your destination was the US, but they never made it. As a punk, you sure cried hard. Scout hugged you all night until you calmed down. He never left your side.

Soldier:

Soldier was minding his business when he heard you arguing with the baker. He was just here to pick up some bread. Soldier was not about to walk into a fight. He would join in it if it got physical, but he wouldn’t walk in on it. You slammed the entrance door and gave the baker an unkind word in Russian. Soldier didn’t think much about what just happened, but he noticed your hand reach for his back pocket. He felt a small tug and you ran off with his wallet. Soldier was furious. Engineer tried to calm him down but he was so bent on revenge, he managed to find you. His intentions changed when he saw the conditions you were living in. To help out with the rent, Soldier moved in. It took some persuasion, but you let it happen.As revenge though, you annoyed Soldier as much as you could.

“Ugh, who covered the toilet seat in mayo?!?” Soldier exclaimed. He came out of the bathroom.

“Eto byl ne ya (It wasn’t me),” you replied. Soldier fumed with anger and marched into his room, slamming the door. You did cover the toilet in mayo. You knocked on Soldier’s door after five hours of waiting for him to come out.

“Go away!” he yelled.

“I brought bread and a bucket,” you answered. It was a peace offering to make up for the mayo. The door opened. Soldier’s hand reached out for the bread and bucket, which you gave him. He calmed down. Yes, you were annoying, but you were also caring. Even if you got drunk a lot. He took care of you. Especially when you got emotional. You never liked talking about your family. Today was different. You started bawling and filling the room with tears.

“Hey, what’s wrong, cupcake?” he asked.

“I just miss my sem'ya (family) so much,” you cried. You dove into your story. Your family couldn’t afford anything. You lived in the dumps, but got by. There was hope you were going to make it to a new life. You helped save up to leave but you and your family got thrown into a gulag. It was hard. You used to be happy and cheerful once, but the gulag changed you. Your father joined some men who were planning to escape. During the revolt, he died, but you escaped with your mother and sister. They didn’t make it far though. Halfway during the trip, they succumbed to their sicknesses. You had to make it to the US alone. “And that’s why I don’t open up,” you said through tears. Soldier patted your back.

“Don’t worry my little comrade, I won’t let anyone take you away,” he said, hugging you.

Pyro:

You were trying to outrun some gangsters that were chasing you. You owed them some money you never paid back. You jumped over the fence that surrounded the base and landed on Pyro. You begged him desperately not to be burned. He scared away the gangsters and offered you a place to stay in case they came back. It was an offer you wished you could’ve denied but was forced to take. Pyro was very gentle and caring with you. You tried to scare him off with your annoying self but it didn’t work. Trying to scare him off with some cool tricks, like blowing fire out of your mouth using a match and vodka, didn’t scare him off. Pyro was amazed by that trick.

“B'yus' ob zaklad, ya drakon v drugoy zhizni (I bet I’m a dragon in another life),” you said. Pyro nodded his head. “Vhat do you think, podzhigatel (firebug)?” Pyro was a fun fella to talk to. He took interest in everything you said or brought him, like a geode you found lying around on the battlefield. He enjoyed it when you brought him flammable things. One thing he would constantly ask was about your family. You told him to shut up about it. You were mean about it. Pyro knew you were holding something back. You found you passed out on the couch, a bottle of scrumpy in hand.

“Mmph (Y/n drinks)?” Pyro took the bottle out of your hand. You mumbled something, turning to the other side.

“Pochemu ty dolzhen byl uyti (Why did you have to go)?” you asked. “Mama? Papa?” Now this was interesting. Was this the secret you refused to tell Pyro? He sat down next to you. You told your whole story as you slept. Your father used to be wealthy until he lost it all. He struggled to make ends meet. You tried your best to keep everything moving on. You were thrown into a gulag for crimes against the government. Your family soon followed. For years you suffered there, blaming yourself for everything. Your father didn’t like how you beat yourself up about that and led an unsuccessful revolt. He granted you, your mother and baby sister’s escape. You made it to the Americas. Not your first choice, but it was good. Until they got sick. It was hard to take care of your mother and sister. You turned to the mafia for money and help. You tried to get medical attention for them, but it didn’t work out. Your mother and sister died. And you owed money. If it wasn’t for Pyro, you would’ve been killed.

“Mmmph mmph,” he mumbled. Pyro stood up from the couch and gave you a kiss on your forehead. When you woke up, you found the same geode Pyro had given you on the coffee table with a note that read, “Stay strong.”

Demo:

You both met at the bar. Demoman was just walking in when you kicked some drunk to the otherside of the room. You had started a bar fight and got away. Demo followed you through the back door. It was just a distraction to get free booze without getting caught. To keep Demo silent, you gave him half your earnings. You hoped to never see Demoman again after that, but he kept coming back. It got annoying. He would always ask for an equal share. You were selfish, you didn’t want to share. At first, you stood up on a crate and raised some bottles over your head. Demo, half drunk, couldn’t reach for the bottles. But you’d always give him his share and run away.

“Bye, you one-eyed korol’ (king)!” you would always yell. Heavy taught Demo the meaning behind his nickname. He’d always wonder why’d you call him king.

“Heya.”

“Privet (hello).” You and Demoman quickly became friends over the course of two months. He’d ramble about his mom back in Scotland, which angered you. You always asked him to shut up about his family. One night at the bar, Demo had to carry you home. You had him come over once or twice in the past and this happened several times. He knew what to do. “Mama…” you groaned. This was strange. You never mentioned or called out for your parents. People eyed Demo. You were crying now. He didn’t want to seem suspicious, so he made the trip back home quick.

“Wake up Y/n,” he said. Your eyes fluttered open. They were red from crying. “What’s wrong?” Demo asked.

“It’s uh, nothing,” you replied.

“C’mon lad, you can tell me.” You sighed.

“They uh, they’ve been dead for a long time.” You told Demo what happened. Your parents used to be rich until they lost it all. You used to be a weak child who got sick all the time. It got worse when you and your family were thrown into a gulag. It was hard there. You were constantly sick. Your father knew you wouldn’t survive. He, alongside your mother, managed to pull an elaborate plan and escaped. You were thirteen when you and thousands escaped. Your mother and father were shot by guards and never made it out. It was just you and your little sister. This time, you weren’t the one sick. She was struck with terrible sickness. She could’ve made it to America, but she didn’t. She passed away before you arrived at New Mexico’s border. Now you were here being comforted by Demoman. He was a good friend.

Heavy:

Heavy knew immediately what your situation was. You were caught sneaking around on the base’s premises. You were a good fighter. You struggled your way out before Heavy came in and gave you a big squeeze that finally defeated you. He was a good hugger. Heavy promised to look after you and make sure you didn’t get into more trouble. You tried to escape several times with no hope. You even touched Sasha! This got annoying quickly. Heavy was stressed out more than usual. You felt bad. This man was working hard to make sure you had a somewhat perfect life. You decided to make it up to Heavy.

“Vot, ya poluchil eto dlya vas (Here, I got this for you),” you said, holding out your hand. In your hand was a small package. Heavy took the gift from your hand. Inside the package was a small glowing orb. You stole it from Merasmus and got away safely. The orb could grant anyone protection.

“Spasbio (thank you), Y/n,” Heavy replied. You smirked.

“I hate spheres,” you said. “Vhy do they even exist? There’s no point.” Heavy laughed at your joke. You were funny when you weren’t annoying Heavy. You were actually good at repairing weapons. You were now allowed to touch any of Heavy’s guns to fix them.

There were times when Heavy would write to his family. You would get very hostile, sometimes you were just angry. Heavy had a hunch you had some reason behind your drop-of-a-hat anger. One day, Heavy caught you crying. It was just after he finished sending mail to his family. He sat down on the bed next to you and patted your back. He noticed a photo in your hand.

“Mozhete li vy skazat' mne, chto sluchilos' (Can you tell me what’s wrong)?” he asked.

“No, I don’t want to tell you,” you replied. Heavy sighed.

“Let me guess, was it a gulag that took them?” he asked. You looked away. “Y/n, Otvet' mne (answer me).”

“It vas,” you answered quietly. Your father was a thief. It wasn’t his fault though. He needed to steal to provide for his family. He was trying to escape the country, but got caught and as punishment, you and your family were thrown into a gulag. You worked many nights and days. You were only a child. Your sister was born there without knowing what the real world was like. Your father blamed himself for your misfortunes. Several men in the gulag planned a revolt. He was killed in the battle. You escaped with your mother and sister. You were only thirteen and you were fourteen when your remaining family died. You had to make it to America alone.

Heavy was crying when you finished your story. He knew what it was like to lose someone. He knew what it was like to suffer there. Heavy hugged you. He would never allow someone to hurt you again.

Engineer:

Engineer wasn’t expecting to get his wallet stolen while shopping at the hardware store. You had gone in, seeing Engy had a wad of money stuck in his pocket. He wasn’t paying attention. You kept your distance and pretended to look at stuff. Engineer didn’t notice you in time when you stole his wallet. A punk like you wouldn’t get away with it. Engineer spent days trying to find you. He found you arguing with a group of people. You flipped them off and cursed in Russian. You were injured from a fight you previously had before arguing with the gang.

“Hey partner,” Engineer said. You stopped in your tracks, rolling your eyes.

“Vhat do you want?” you asked, turning around. “U menya net vremeni, tak chto sdelay eto bystro (I don’t have time so make it quick).”

“Can Ah get my money back?” he asked. You laughed, wiping a tear.

“Oh, leetle man, I already used it,” you answered. “But, if you want, I can get it back for you.” And indeed you did. After two weeks, you got Engineer back his money. You had made a profit shining shoes and snatching loose change off your customers. Engineer was quite surprised. He thought you were just going to run off and never return. “Schastliv, inzhener (Happy, engineer)?” You began to bring Engineer things. You’d sneak onto the battlefield to give him screws he could use or paintings you put on his sentries.

“So, do you have any family?” This was a question that made you punch a dispenser hard.

“Don’t ask that again,” you growled. Engineer was taken aback. You were usually chill and goofy, not hostile. He was curious though. Why did the mention of family anger you? He kept asking and asking and asking, until one day you finally snapped. “Otlichno! Ty khochesh' znat'? Nu, ugadayte chto! Moya sem'ya mertva (Fine! You want to know? Well, guess what! My family is dead)!” you yelled. Tears streamed down your cheeks. Engineer had poked the beehive. The Texan gave you a hug as you cried into his shoulder. You wailed about how you lived your entire life poor. Your parents worked hard to escape. Patrol guards caught you leaving and threw you into a gulag. Your parents tried to break you out but they got thrown into the gulag as well. You worked hard, devising a plan to escape, but never actually put it in motion. Your father found the plans and put it into motion. He escaped with you, but died due to his wounds. Your mother made sure you and your sister were on the boat out of there. You kept in touch with her, but your mother soon passed away from sickness. You and your sister lived in New Mexico for a while. There was a shooting though and your sister was killed. You were alone, until you met Engineer. He patted your back and dried your tears.

“There, there, honeybee,” he said in a calming voice. “Ain’t no one gonna hurt ya anymore.”

Medic:

“Otpusti menya, sumasshedshiy doktor (Let me go, you insane doctor)!” Medic carried your screaming self over his shoulder. He had caught you stealing medicine from his cabinet and selling it on the streets as drugs. He was very angry. You never thought you would get caught, but now the entire team watched as you kicked your arms and legs while being carried to the medbay. Medic decided to take you on as an apprentice so you could make up for how much medicine you stole. You didn’t like it one bit. You were dragged along to battles.

“Watch and learn,” Medic would always say. While he went off to harvest organs, you went off to search for cool stuff. You “found” some delicious baked goods and brought it back to Medic as a snack. He appreciated this. Unfortunately, you got caught stealing the food and you were almost thrown in jail. You cracked your knuckles, rolled up your sleeves, and learned how to bake. Medic enjoyed eating your treats.

“Baking is a whisky business,” you said with a smile. You always cracked jokes about your baking (or Medic’s medical license) that had him laughing loudly all the time. All boozed up, you were funnier. But even boozed up, you told secrets you never wanted to tell anyone. Medic would never mention the word “family.” The first time he said it, you freaked out. He dared to never mention or ask about your family ever again, until one particular night. Medic was returning late from a last minute mission. You were drinking a little too much that night.

“Guten abend (Good evening), Y/n,” he said, closing the medbay door. He had finished telling Scout good night.

“Znayete, vy kak odna bol'shaya sem'ya (You know, you are like one big family),” you slurred. “You’re lucky.”

“Vhat do jou mean?” Tears started welling up in your eyes.

“I-I used to have family too,” you said. You were crying out an ocean now. Medic rushed over and started patting your back.

“Calm down Y/n,” he said. “Vhat happened?” You explained you used to live in a gulag. Your mother had to take care of your sickly father. He wasn’t working and your mother couldn’t get a job. The family couldn’t pay off debts and so you were forced to work in a gulag. You were thirteen when your father and mother worked together to bust the family out. Your father was the distraction while your mother took you and your sister out of the country. Your father was killed in the action. Your mother was wounded, so was your sister. They never left the country. You were on your own. Medic handed you a tissue. “Don’t cry,” he whispered softly. He wiped your tears. “Jou have me now, I won’t let anything happen to Jou, I swear.”

Sniper:

Sniper went into town to get some takeout for the team. They were getting ravenous for food. You were lying in an alley, wounded. You had previously fought a gang that owed you money. You lost the fight, but at least you got your money back. Sniper was walking back when he noticed you on the ground. Your stomach was rumbling loudly, that’s the first thing he noticed. You were wiggling your limp body to the trash can, hoping you could lift yourself up from there. Sniper approached you. You looked up at the hunter and frowned.

“Chto vam nuzhno (what do you need)?” you asked.

“Need help?” Sniper asked. You shook your head. Your stomach roared again. “Seems you’re hungry, mate.” You noticed the food in his hand.

“Give me a fry, will you?” you asked. Sniper grabbed you by the hand and pulled you to your feet. You ate everyone’s food on the way back to the base. From there, Medic tended to your wounds. Sniper returned you back home. He never thought you’d find out where he worked and visit him. He was scouting the area with his scope when he found you roaming around, a lunch box in hand. He waved you up to his nest. You apparently brought Sniper homemade food to make up for the dinner he gave you. You came every afternoon with food. Sometimes it was takeout or leftovers from the previous meals. In your lunch box were words scratched into it. It read “Priyatnogo obeda. Lyubite mamu i papu (Have a delightful lunch. Love mama and papa).” Sniper asked you about the writing. You got angry and threw the lunch box at the wall. It was damaged a bit. Sniper had it repaired for you.

“Hey, mate, it’s me,” he said. It took two weeks to get it fixed and now he was returning it to you. You opened the door and hunched against the doorway.

“Vhat?” you asked. You looked at the lunch box in Sniper’s hand. “Come in.” There were bottles of beer littered everywhere. You were drunk. “Oh hey, you have Mama and Papa.” You took the lunch box out of Sniper’s hand. You started sniffing. “I haven’t seen them in forever…” You started to cry. “It’s been so long,” you sobbed. Sniper awkwardly hugged you.

“Do you need to talk?” he asked. He didn’t know how to deal with these kinds of situations. You started wailing about your life. It didn’t seem like it, but you grew up poor as a child. You were happy, with your family. Life seemed perfect. But then you and your family were placed in a gulag. You had to work to pay off your debts. You tried to make the best of it. There was a revolt planned by other workers. Your father didn’t want anything to do with it. You used the attack to your advantage. Your father made sure your mother, sister, and you escaped. That was the last time you saw him. Your mother carried you and your sister to freedom. She didn’t make the trip. Your sister died just as you arrived in America. You never wanted to go back. Sniper sighed. “We don’t need to talk about this if you want,” he said. You wiped a tear. A heavy burden was lifted off your shoulders.

“Na samom dele, ya by khotel, chtoby vy pozvolili mne pogovorit' o nikh. Ya budu chuvstvovat' sebya luchshe (Actually, I'd like it if you let me talk about them. I'll feel better about it),” you replied. Sniper smiled and nodded.

Spy:

He was not going to deal with another punk. Scout was hard enough to deal with. You were yelling at Spy and cursing in Russian. He had bumped into you and didn’t say sorry. It was annoying. He just walked away. Unfortunately, he found you again wrestling with some other punk. Spy decided to ignore this. You were losing the battle though. You were yelling for help. Spy sighed and turned around. He stabbed the other punk and dragged him into an alley.

“Pft, I didn’t need your help,” you said, standing up.

“Whatever,” he replied, walking away. After that, Spy made it his duty to watch over you. You knew he was there. You constantly yelled at him to leave you alone. He wouldn’t leave. Eventually, you started bringing Spy stuff you found on the streets. You found simple things, like marbles, old shoe laces, loose change (that you probably stole, Spy assumed), free gift cards (again, that you probably stole), and free, abandoned furniture! You brought it in and built forts with it. Spy proved to be an expert builder at forts. You two were like father and child. It brought back memories (and regrets). But you started to shut out Spy. He wondered why.

He found you drunk, roaming around the streets after returning home from work. This wasn’t a shocker to him. You were usually drunk. Drunker than Demoman. It worried the Spy sometimes. He didn’t mind carrying you home. “Come Y/n, you need to be home,” he said. You snatched your hand away from Spy’s grip.

“Nyet (no),” you slurred. You pointed a shaky finger at him. “You’re not my father and you never will be. My father is (Father’s name)!” you exclaimed. You started to cry. “On umer! On umer, spasaya menya (He’s dead! He died saving me).” Your father used to be a wealthy man, but he gave it all up for your mother. Your family wasn’t rich and that was okay. You didn’t see why the men dragged you away to that cold desolate place they called a gulag. Why did you have to work? Why did you have to suffer? Your father was working a small job so why did this happen? You were thirteen when you escaped with your mother and sister. You didn’t know what your father had planned out. All you remember was running away. But your sister and mother didn’t make it far before they got shot down. You were told to keep running. You never looked back. You knew you would never see your family again. Spy understood why you were ignoring him. You didn’t want to get hurt again. And he was going to make sure you weren’t going to get hurt ever again.

#team Fortress 2 X Reader #Tf2 X Reader #Team Fortress 2 X Reader One Shots #Tf2 X Reader One Shots #angst #Fluff #One Shots #Action #tf2 #tf2 demoman #tf2 heavy #tf2 Pyro #tf2 engineer #tf2 medic #tf2 scout #tf2 soldier #tf2 spy #tf2 sniper

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marudny-robot · 4 years

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Some fanfic spoilers for interested

Hi, with things going on in the world and in my life I wasn’t really up to writing lately that much (and WIPs won’t stop haunting me). Anyway, thought I would share some random things I planned to implement in one of my fanfics, “Love And Marriage”. For those who don’t know this, it’s basically timkon married!AU, with no one main plot, but rather bunch of stand alone scenes and stories in Tim’s and Conner’s married life.

Anyway, under the cut is bunch of headcanons and weird little things I was thinking on including in this fic. Why am I listing those at all? Because I’m bored, that’s why.

Kon has lots of piercings. The amount and places is still not specified, but Conner Kon-El “I can look better with jewelry than you, Anita” Kent likes his piercings and Tim is happy to buy him what he likes.

Tim may know what to buy Conner jewelry-wise for gala or something, but for more casual look he refers to Anita and Bart.

and also to the second older Tim that somehow landed in this universe (and not really planning to go back), who’s also the owner of jewelry shop the married!Tim secretly shops in for gifts for his husband.

other-universe!Tim wasn’t in love with his universe Kon, but rather Cassie. He still doesn’t shares what had happened and why he doesn’t want to come back (maybe he can’t? idk)

both Tims met by accident when married!Tim wasn’t even engaged - was starting to think about marriage and all that - and was window-shopping some engagement rings of this one specific shop. Shop belonged to o-u!Tim, who upon landing here, somehow learnt about some organized kryptonite black market and wanted to get more inside info.

upon seeing not-yet-married!Tim in front of his shop, other-universe!Tim decided to reveal himself, because “screw this! both of me will solve this quicker!”

in the end, o-u!Tim runs the shop, is housing Red Lanter Dex Star and Blue Lanter Corgi of Hope (does it have different name???), is happy that this universe Tim is the only one knowing his true identity and isn’t in hurry to reveal himself to Bats and JL (and what for? he’s just living calm, happy life here, man), and is charging married!Tim twice the amount for anything embedded with blue kryptonite, because “yes, I’ll do it and no, I don’t care it’s only for a simple ring, you would find a way to make it nsfw this universe me, I know you and myself, and I don’t want to even think bout it, stop it, I don’t want to think about my bff that way >:(“

something else now

Jason is famous crime-novels writer. His novels are so realistic, some fans believe the author worked in law-enforcement of some kind. He never yet showed his face to the public.

His pen name is something like “Jason Peters” and all his friends and family know that it is him. Especially Bats, because they recognize some of the cases (most of them are mix of various cases).

Bats respect that Jason needs some privacy gathering information for the books, however... Look, they are fan of his books, love the challenge it gives them, but are not afraid to bother him until he reveals something

it became family game - “who can solve the case in latest of Jason’s book first” (Jason of course judges and also takes bets.) Time starts with book official release.

Jason, while he’s in better contact with his family, doesn’t want his writer fame being associated with the Wayne name. But. He once told his manager that the true reason he knows most of this stuff he writes about was truly because he’s deceased and miraculously revived Jason Todd-Wayne who spend years after his revival with international mafia.

His manager laughed at this, not believing, but it didn’t worsen their working relationship. Peters was fun and quirky guy after all.

That was until they planned collab with other famous writer who didn’t like showing his face (and for whom I have no pen name)

The other author is Kon

He specifies in adventure as a genre. Sometimes those are also sci-fi.

And while Kon and Jason respects each others writing skills, and are aware they are curating for different fanbase, there’s some kind of rivalry going on

Because most of their family and friends are more often reading Jason’s books than his (Damn you on-going bet! Damn you!)

and because his lest-favorite brother in-law, whom he still didn’t forgive for injuring his husband (I don’t care you forgive him, Tim, Honey), and who sometimes makes fun at him whenever there’s family diner, is sometimes beating him up in book sales.

Damn you, Jason Todd! - Kon, probably

anyway, I don’t have much plans for this now, but I thought the meeting for theoretical colab would take place at Tim’s and Kon’s place.

the atmosphere is so tense you can cut it with a knife

Jason’s manager is a little in awe because that’s Timothy Drake-Wayne here??? What’s next, Beyonce???

funny story, because Tim “yes, hello, but please, I’m Timothy Kent(???)” Drake-Wayne says that Jason here is actually his older brother and both authors besides them confirm this

both managers currently: :O

Jason’s manager: WAIT, you want to teLL ME, that you didn’t lie about that dying and being Wayne stuff??!?!

Jason “Did I ever lied to you, Benny?” Todd-Wayne

Kon’s manager: yoU DIED??!!

Jason: That part in ‘xxx’ book about crawling from one’s grave was based on authentic facts :) Besides, I’m not the only one writing based on life experience. :) Ask Conner about his time in space with Justice League :)

Kon, muttering: I hope cow would shit on you, Todd

meanwhile, Tim in the kitchen, trying not to hit his head on the wall repeatedly: come on, Tim, Alfred prepared you for this! >:( You will be perfect host and none of this shit currently happening will move or visibly stress you out! >:( You will not cry and call Alfred for help! >:( But would it be proper, if I bring out alcohol earlier???

I have few more ideas for this fic, but those were the wildest ones currently, I guess.

Thoughts?

#Maruda writes #timkon #Tim Drake #Kon-El #Jason Todd #it was fun to write it out #I should do more like this #lol at first I wrote 'time in spice' instead of 'time in space'#and other mistakes #damn I should go to sleep

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a-merman-not-a-guppy · 4 years

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BDRP QUESTIONNAIRE

Your Name: Lena

Characters: Anthony Coleman, Arthur Pendragon, Ashley Armbruster, Celia Gorgon, Fflewddur Fflam, Finn Flounder, Kanga DeRosa, Llewellyn “Louie” Mallard, Sora Hamasaki/Roxas

Pick one of your characters and talk about their growth: Oh man I think of my characters I’m the most proud of Celia’s growth? I mean a lot’s changed since I got her, and I’ve been able to see the progression and build up that change from her being and nervous and terrified about everything to starting to come into her own and be a confident woman. I’m proud of having taken that journey with her, and I like that she’s no longer the mousy shy character that I thought she would always be in the beginning. There’s a lot more strength and determination to her than I honestly expected. She’s been through a lot, she fell in love and everything and I think the amazing part is that she’s not regressing now that she’s heartbroken. She knows a little more about what she can handle. I find that super exciting for her. I’m really really pleased with how far we’ve come since I rejoined with her.

Pick another character and talk a little about where you WANT them to go. What are your plans for them going into the new year? So I honestly have a lot of plans for a lot of my babes that I don’t want to reveal but I can say in the vaguer sense where I want them to go. Anthony - honestly just want him to terrorize and go hard. Unleash his full villain in this next year. Help him do that friends. Arthur - I know I want him to do something heroic and noble, but on a smaller scale, I want him to form a proper attachment, maybe have feelings for someone. I think he’s so work focused it’d be interesting how that might affect him as a character. Ashley - I have a lot of change in mind for her. I want to see her move past the struggles she has with her family/find her own way. Celia - just see her continue to gain confidence and figure out what makes her happy. Fflewddur - I honestly want to see him really struggle. He’s always had everything handed to him. I’d love for things to go horribly horribly wrong for him. Finn - Honestly my plan is to go into who he is as a merman and more of the magical side to his life. I love the teen stuff but I am very very eager to do mer stuff with him. Kanga - It’s a secret. But it’ll be fun. Louie - As always I want him to get into a lot of trouble. lol. I also want to see a rift with family with him and see how he handles that. He has a tendency for the dramatic and I think that’d be fun. Roxas - see them figure out what’s going on/learn about Sora Sora - see him learn about Roxas. it’ll be fun.

Pick a thread or a plot that you’re proud of and talk about why you loved it. Honestly it’s still ongoing but I’m really proud of what I’ve developed with Arthur. The ongoing quest for the sword and everything around that. It’s the first time I’ve had a longer term plan with a character and known what I wanted to do with it and it’s so cool! It’s exciting to do, and I really really loved the thread lauryl and I had in the lake and writing the Lady of the Lake briefly. It was just COOL.

In terms of your own writing, identify 1-3 strengths and talk about why you think it’s one of your strengths. oh I’m so bad at this. ahaha. I’m gonna do my best but it’s hard for me to talk about myself and stuff like this. Let’s see...I think 1) Dialogue. I think I’m pretty good at making my character’s voices distinct and their own. It’s been especially fun with Finn because of his stutter and the way that he speaks. 2) Teen hijinks. I know this is an odd thing to put as a strength, but honestly I do think I somehow have my niche with teenagers. Maybe their drama just suits my dramatic cancer self who knows. I feel like all three of my teens are unique and quirky and idk is this valid? I find it far too easy to think of ridiculous teen plots. 3) Getting into character’s heads. Thoughts and stuff, I feel like I am good at sharing where my characters are at and how they feel and all that. I feel like I do a good job of diving right into emotions.

In terms of your own writing, identify 1-3 areas of improvement. 1) showing not telling more. You know trying to really give more detail to what’s happening around characters and their actions rather than a ton of their thoughts. I know I need to work on this more, sometimes I just get lazy and go with what’s easier and habit. 2) There’s another thing I want to work on and again get lazy, where with dialogue you don’t respond to every thing a person says cause that’s not natural to a conversation. You want to respond to like the last thing and then maybe something else after. I think about it but I forget about it and I could work on it. 3) Description. I want to do better at describing things and giving a better visual image of things happening and stuff. I feel like that’s something I’d really like to do better with in the new year.

Pick one of your plots, or even just a character, and come up with a list of 3-5 “mentor texts” where you can look for inspiration or research, then write a short (2-4 sentences) why you picked those texts So I noticed I used tv and film as inspo more than books and stuff but it’s still a reference material to go back to and I’m not sorry. Finn: -It by Stephen King. So this is largely chosen because the character of Bill Denbrough in It has a stutter, and it was one of the first real examples I could think of where I could listen to it and the sound via the movie and how that would work with Finn’s stutter. I go back to it every once in a while for reference. And I’d love to read the book one day and see if there’s more to uncover. -Ferris Bueller’s Day Off: Study of Cameron Frye. So this is a high school movie which also helps with the right vibe, but the most important thing to me is the whole vibe and fear of going out to do ANYTHING. Finn has a really hard time with that and Cameron Frye is honestly pretty good inspo on this sort of thing. Also he’s got two more outgoing friends in a sense, which Finn also has in the form of Ariel and Nemo. -Star Trek: Study of the character Bones. I think this is sort of a good reference as to where I’d love to see Finn in the future and it’s a cool thing to try to work toward. Bones has channeled his innate worrying into helping people, and I think that’s something that Finn could learn to do. How and in what way? I don’t know. But it’s a good reference point for the future maybe. -The Rugrats: Study of Chuckie. Yes is it a bit funny to find inspo from another animated character for Finn? Sure a bit. But honestly the more I think about it, Chuckie Finster is a very anxious child and that is basically Finn on the regular. And again a character that has a much more confident best friend and gets dragged along on the adventures. And even though Chuckie the character is an actual baby and Finn’s a teen there’s a lot to really look at and be inspired by. When I was little I didn’t think Chuckie was that relatable but when I got a little older I was like ‘oh man that’s a mood’ and honestly he’s anxious, I’m anxious, and I’m writing about an anxious character so it all kind of works.

And now, a wishlist! I looooove wishlists and this’ll probably be the longest part of this whole thing so that if anyone wants to brainstorm stuff/looks at this list and goes ‘hey me too’ we can start scheming. -fake dating! -alexa play fake love- it’s a trope for a reason and I really really love it. Someone get in on it with me. -rags to riches (I want Louie to experience being rich for like a day or something. I think that’d make a really interesting story for him.) -murder. well. If anyone wants to get rid of a character one day hmu. -more magic based plots. I have magicks but somehow they HARDLY use it and that’s lame. I want more magic. I want to def explore mer stuff with Finn more especially, and generally just chaotic magic things. -i want Sora/Roxas to fuck with people. Like I want someone to date one of them just for an awkward scene in bed or something. That’s a very small plot thing but I think it’d be hilarious. -I really like romantic plots and I like the soft puff/seemingly cold slytherin relationship. idk I guess I want a duo like that. Or more romance in general. Date my characters. Long term, short term, to make someone else jealous? let’s go. -DISASTER AGENTS. I had a vague idea and I want it but who knows if/when that happens but two brothers with a rescue agency but they are completely incompetent. I like the witty characters sue me. Anthony: -i already said this but murder. -i also want him to hook up with/become friends with a sorcerer. i. have.an.idea. =D -continue to have him sink his teeth in the board and try to influence the town Arthur: -a slow burn love story would suit him nicely. i have plans for him and i think it would up the stakes. -a buddy cop story. idk Arthur is a workaholic so I feel like the best way to be buddies with him is to work with him. lol. this loser. Ashley: -i have her future planned mostly. she’s good i think. Celia: -turn a boyfriend to stone. seriously! -a hero moment for her? idk i think it’d be cool to have what she thinks of as a curse save someone’s life. Fflewddur: -someone let him spill your secrets with his harp. let him cause DRAMA. -connect him to other musicians. He’s got an ego and he’s kind of the worst, but I want him to talk more music and do more music things. Finn: -MER THINGS!!! -i want to explore some of his trauma from the bullying and everything. I know I’m gonna do a one shot, but I also would love to have him be able to open up to a friend about how things were/have been. I don’t think he’d even have told Ariel all of it. -touch. touch is his love language and I think that he’s probably fairly touch starved as he keeps to himself a lot and is afraid of like everything lol. So I’d love to explore his relationship with touch and see him learn to trust people and open up and more free with his affection and holding hands and hugs and that sort of thing. -first love/kiss. with him i think it would be a very slow thing but also it would be SO CUTE and yeah. he’s more of a romantic than my other teens so gotta ask for it here. lmao. Kanga: -board things. She’s on it now woo! I’m here to explore that more -it’s a secret. It’s coming soon to theaters. Louie: -again. Rich for a day, see how the other 1% lives that sort of thing. -family plot line. I want it to happen so bad. I want to see Louie sort of self destruct. Someone help him get there. -further down the trouble path. Drugs? Or fighting or something considerably more reckless? He’s still a fairly good kid, I’d love to explore something a little darker with him. -also to explore him being gay and let him really come into his own there. He’s too busy being Louie to notice so that’s a thing I really want to push with him and see him figure out feelings more. Roxas: -have them figure out about Sora first. Let him and friends struggle with how to handle that. so really mission a) make Roxas a few friends. then b) share the chaos of their life with said friends. it’ll be fun. -get in a fight with battle magic. I think it’d be interesting to see it in play, especially since they are not fully in control. A magic fight guys. Who’s in?Sora: -oo you know what might be fun? having him become good buds with someone and move in somewhere with them and then and have him and Roxas’ stuff make a mess of things. roommate drama HEIGHTENED. -Someone telling Sora about Roxas. Because he is not the smart one of the duo. He’s pretty damn oblivious -break someone’s heart. I feel like he’d be the type to do it without realizing and that’d be an interesting thing to go into.

OPTIONAL: Why do you RP? Well honestly I’ve been rping for so long it’s hard to remember a time before I did it. It’s a good escape from reality sometimes and I really love to write. Writing makes me feel good and unwind and I like that I can express things through characters that I might not be able to do myself places because I’m too awkward. It’s nice to be able to let things out and enthuse online and to get to know a great community. I’ve made some great friends through rp and I love that a lot about the whole thing. Plus it’s through rp that a lot of the time you can let out over enthusiasm. Or at least for me that’s the case. As many of you already know I tend to obsess over things and when I do it’s like I need so many outlets to get by. Right now BTS and then having Finn as my outlet for example. But before that it would be like my years long Steve Rogers fixation and how I’d be off and on in group rps with him as a character or on an indie blog and that would be how I expressed my love for this character and let some of that out. It’s so helpful and therapeutic almost, since I feel like I get too enthusiastic for people around me to relate a lot.

#bdrptask #this got long oops

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noona-clock · 6 years

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Study: Admin B

In which we dig deeper under the surface of our favorite Noona-Clock Admins.

Disclaimer: I do not own any of the gifs used in this post. I am not an astrologer nor am I a professional psychologist. These are my opinions based on the research I have done personally/as a hobby. If you disagree with any of these statements, please do so respectfully. Also, I totally understand if you do not read this. I know it’s going to be long because I have done a lot of research into my own personality. 🙄

-Admin B

Sun Sign: Aquarius (Air)

Aquarius is known to be really the most unique sign in the zodiac... which basically just translates to: Aquarians are a bunch of weirdos. Our sign is ruled by Uranus which is the planet of originality, so yeah. We’re big on individualism and being yourself and being different. So, we really are just a bunch of weirdos, but we know it. And we’re proud of it. I am definitely a weirdo, but I don’t see this as a bad thing at all. I have a wacky sense of humor, and I... am just weird! I’m not afraid to be myself and let my funny, quirky traits and habits shine through. I have a wide variety of interests which really aren’t connected to each other at all (KPOP, Star Trek, Disney, Makeup, romance novels, the British royal family, history, Harry Potter - all of which I love just about equally!). Aquarians, myself included, can also be kind of awkward and a little misunderstood at times because of this originality we value so much. That’s why it can be difficult for us to make friends sometimes. But we’re also just very choosy about who we let into our life! We know not everyone will accept us for who we are, even though Aquarians are pretty non-judgmental.

Another huge part of the Aquarius sign is the need to help people. Our symbol is the water bearer, and this signifies how we like to give things to people. We give our time, our compassion, our knowledge. We just want to better the world, and we have such huge, humanitarian hearts. I can definitely identify with this trait because I have always been extremely empathetic, and I do my best to help out anyone in any way I can. I always donate an extra two dollars at the store for homeless pets or food drives or children's’ hospitals. I rescue all my pets from shelters. I use cruelty-free makeup and skincare, and I try to buy as many of my clothes as I can secondhand to help the environment some. I know there’s so much more I could be doing, too!

Aquarians can also be really hard to break through to. I mentioned before it’s difficult for us to make friends sometimes, not only because we can be so weird and awkward but also because we have a tendency to be emotionally detached. We’re usually pretty reserved (I definitely am), and we strongly prefer not to show or talk about our emotions. We do not like confrontation, but we also tend to overthink a lot. So even though we might seem like we’re emotionally detached, there’s a lot going on in our heads. We love to analyze situations down to the bones, usually in an unhealthy way. But Aquarians are just huge thinkers in general. This aspect of the Aquarius sign definitely applies to me, as I have always had trouble expressing myself emotionally. I don’t easily say ‘I love you’ to people, though this mostly just applies in real life. I can express myself so much easier in writing because I have more time to sort out my thoughts!

Moon Sign: Cancer (Water)

WOO, GIRL. I’ve said before that having a water sign in your lunar placement is difficult, but like... having Cancer in your lunar placement? Oh, my. Cancer is the sign ruled by the Moon itself, so a water moon sign + the Moon moon sign = good luck to you. (and yes I’m now thinking of Moon Moon. Bless his heart.)

Cancers really have a bad reputation for being crybabies because we are so. dang. sensitive. Water signs are known for being the most emotional anyway, and I think Cancers might just be the most of the most emotional. They’re definitely the most sensitive, that’s for sure. And since the sign in your lunar placement defines your innermost, emotional self... Do you understand why having a Cancer moon sign is just a little tricky? Cancers make decisions with our emotions, and a lot of the time, we just have a ton of emotions. There’s basically just an emotional roller coaster going on in our heads at all times, so we can definitely come across as moody. I have always, always, always been extremely sensitive. I take things way too personally, and I let things affect me way more than they should. It really wasn’t until I learned about my Cancer moon sign that I accepted this is just who I am. I’ve always wanted to change how I react to certain situations, but I know now I just can’t. I feel things very deeply even though I don’t show it (thanks to my Aquarius emotional detachment), and while it gets annoying, it helps me connect with people.

Because Cancers are so sensitive and emotional, we are very, very good listeners. We will be there for you when you need to bitch, and while we might not always have advice for you, we will sincerely, genuinely listen to your problems, and we will truly sympathize. We’ll also try to take care of you if we can because Cancers are extremely nurturing. We like to take care of people, and my preferred method of taking care of people is doing things for them. I tend to be pretty thoughtful, and if I ever think “oh, I wish someone would do that for me,” I like to go and do just that for someone else. We’re just very helpful, strong people who will genuinely care about you and sympathize with you.

Cancers, like Aquarians, are very non-judgmental, which is another reason why we make such great listeners. You can literally tell us anything, and we’ll do our best to understand. I definitely try not to judge people because my Aquarius ass is so weird - what place do I have to judge someone else, right? The only people we’ll turn our back on is people who have wronged us or our loved ones, and this is so, so true for me. The second I find out you’ve hurt somebody I love, I’m done with you. Cancers are very protective and nurturing people!

While it can be difficult for Cancers to get close to people (because we can get kind of paranoid, think people don’t like us, and we tend to feel left out A LOT - a daily struggle for me!), we love having deep conversations. We’ll talk about anything we’re interested in for, like, hours... and we won’t let it go. We’re a very sentimental sign, and we just, in general, have trouble letting things go. But that circles right back around to being sensitive! We just have a lot of feelings!!

Chinese Astrology: Earth Snake

Just like Daesung! So is it any wonder I’m an angel? (LOL)

I never liked being a Snake growing up because I’m not a huge lover of reptiles. I like cute, fuzzy animals (that don’t have beaks), and snakes just creep me out. But whenever I would read the description of a Snake on the tray papers at Chinese restaurants, I couldn’t argue it sounded a lot like me.

Snakes are known to be very humorous but also sophisticated in a way (though I definitely do not have a sophisticated sense of humor). We prefer to eliminate small talk, instead opting for deeper, more meaningful conversations. In addition, we’re usually pretty capable in an emergency. We’re able to hold our ground and think rationally and calmly about what needs to be done.

Snakes are always thinking ahead and making new plans (and a majority of the time we follow these plans without relying on others’ input because we’re kind of stubborn and think we know best). But we’re usually right, okay? You really cannot judge a Snake by its cover. We may seem pretty calm and somewhat lazy or laid back, but our minds are so active. We’re super alert and observant, and really, nothing gets past us.

Snakes have very high standards for friends, and this, coupled with my Aquarian reserve and Cancer sensitivity, really makes it difficult for me to put myself out there and make friends. This is why I have a small number of very close friends, and that’s about it. I spend a lot of time with my family because they’re also included in the people I’m closest to. But Snakes - Earth Snakes, in particular - are very loyal friends who can keep a friendship for life. Once we attach ourselves to you, it’s going to take a lot to shake us off (but I mean if you really want to then just make my sister or any of my best friends cry. Then I’ll drop you in a hot second). Snakes are sensitive to criticism, though, and if we get hurt, we will never forgive and never forget. Does this sound familiar? It’s honestly still weird to me how the same traits show up over and over in these studies - not just mine!

Women Snakes are usually graceful and elegant, and while I probably wouldn’t classify myself as either of these, I do take great care with my appearance. I like to appear more elegant and sophisticated than I truly am. I love doing my makeup and wearing nice clothes. Women Snakes are also known to be beautiful, both inside and out. Our confidence is manifested in our fashion and appreciation for classic art. This seems kind of specific, but it’s definitely true for me! My main source of confidence comes from how I make myself look (not how I naturally look, mind you). I’ve never been one to easily accept compliments, but if you tell me you like my makeup or my outfit, the words ‘Thank you’ come out of my mouth immediately. It’s something this Snake is proud of! I also do appreciate art, and whenever I’m visiting a new city (or an old city), I like to find the local art museum and spend some time there!

Numerology: Life Path 9

As I’ve mentioned in Jackson’s, Jinyoung’s, and Yugyeom’s Study, the 9 Life Path number is the most evolved in numerology and has one of the strongest vibrations because it contains the qualities of all the other numbers. 9s are seen as wise, old souls, and our main focus in life is developing our spirituality in all aspects.

9s usually have a strong inclination to follow whatever we believe in, and we’ll pursue this with great ambition and drive. We also have an authentic regard for humanity, so our goals tend to involve serving others in some way. This is certainly true for me because one of my biggest overall passions is education. I truly, truly believe education is the solution to so many problems, and every single person on this Earth deserves a good education. I was a teacher for several years before my Introverted self couldn’t take it any longer, but now I work for a software company who serves daycares and preschools for underprivileged children.

9s love serving and helping others, and it’s such a huge part of our identity that whenever we’re in need of support, people tend not to notice. But we do keep our guard up, so 9s definitely need to learn how to ask for help since it’s hardly ever obvious when we do need it. This has been something I’ve struggled with my entire life - asking for help. I always feel like a burden or like I’m annoying when I ask for something, and my Cancer self cannot handle feeling like a burden!

9s are also usually pretty creative, and while I’m certainly not creative like Jackson, Jinyoung, or Yugyeom, I like to think I am in my own way. I express my creativity through makeup, fashion, and definitely through writing. I also love to daydream, and my daydreams can get pretty involved!

MBTI: INFJ

Introverted, Intuitive, Feeling, Judging

You guys. I’m so Introverted, it’s not even funny. Not only that, I’m a shy introvert. I’m so naturally quiet and reserved, and you would not believe how many different people have commented on this, even strangers! I love staying at home, and I much prefer to be in my bed reading or on my laptop than out somewhere with a bunch of people. I think before I speak, I spend time with myself, and I just actually really like being alone. Truly, if we’re on a road trip together, I could go for hours without speaking and be just fine. That’s how quiet I am.

I also type as Intuitive, meaning I’m very imaginative, open-minded, curious, and I prefer to think about the possibilities rather than the facts or what’s already been tested as tried and true. As I mentioned in the previous section, I love to daydream, and I think daydreaming is pretty big sign of an Intuitive person over a Sensing person. Intuitives tend to talk more about ideas while Sensers talk more about facts.

So, if you’ve read this far, it should come as absolutely no surprise whatsoever I’m a Feeling individual. I don’t even really need to go over how emotional and sensitive I am because that’s basically the whole of my Moon Sign. Funnily enough, though, this function is the one with my lowest percentage. Whereas I’m 88% Introverted, 79% Intuitive, and 71% Judging, I’m only 68% Feeling.

Finally, I type as a Judging individual which means my more extraverted function is my Feeling function. It also means I’m more structured in how I live my life. I don’t really like to keep my options open. I like to make a plan and stick to it. This is very true! If I’m ever doing something with friends or family, I get really annoyed if someone keeps bringing up ideas and options. Especially if we’ve already figured out what we want to do.

INFJs are known as The Advocate. We love to help people, but in a very ‘need to make the world a better place’ way. We don’t want to just pay for somebody’s meal at the drive-thru because we know it’s a nice thing to do. We do it because we want to start a Pay It Forward movement, to help people help others. We love having a cause, and we are relentless about making the world a better place.

Other Studies: Admin T

Master list // RULES // Submit a Request! // Read About the Admins

#noonaclock #astrology #mbti #chinese zodiac #aquarius #cancer #aquarius sun #cancer moon #snake #earth snake #infj #admin b

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justanoutlawfic · 6 years

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Where You Lead

A new verse, prompted by @queen-of-the-merry-men based on Gilmore Girls. It’ll work based on prompts, so if you have any let me know. Ships are Cobrafire, Papafire, Swanfire (eventually), Rumbelle, Swan Believer and Outlaw Queen (eventually).

Also on AO3

Neal shifted back and forth from one foot to another as he stared at the overwhelming pink mansion that had once been his home.

He was doing it for Henry, it was all for Henry.

Funny, that had been the reason he had left in the first place.

Neal Cassidy had once been Neal Gold, the son of Wren Gold. Wren was a wealthy professor, who taught at his alma mater: Yale University. His childhood had been a stuffy one. Wren had once been fun loving and free…up until his wife left him. He suddenly had all sorts of expectations of his son. Maybe to their world, they weren’t too bad, but to Neal he wanted nothing more than to escape the world of the privileged. They were too stuck up, they didn’t care about anyone else. Gold didn’t seem to care, he had his son attend cotillions and debutante balls. He’d be a Gold man, just like the rest. The only problem was, when you held on so tight…the child was bound to pull away.

His rebellion had been small at first. He’d skip classes, refuse to attend the different galas his father wanted to. His father wanted him to end up with Tamara Chandler, daughter of one of his best friends. Instead, he had chosen Emma Swan. She was the wayward foster daughter to the Nolans. It was young love, but they felt it was real.

Then Emma got pregnant. They were only 16 and lots of suggestions got tossed around. In the end, Henry was born and Emma took off, feeling she was just much too young to be a parent. She stayed in contact with Henry throughout the years, but not in the way a mother would.

As for Neal, he stayed with his father, for a year. It didn’t take long for him to realize that it wasn’t the life that he wanted, for him or his son. So, he took off in the middle of the night. He found himself a job as a busboy at Granny’s Inn and worked his way up the ranks. At only 26, he was in a good place, he was happy. He spoke to his father a bit and saw him on holidays, but the strain was there. His father was still hurting that he took off without a word.

Now, it wasn’t Christmas or Easter. It was just Neal…feeling completely desperate. He would’ve refused, if his friend, Robin, hadn’t talked some sense into him.

“It’s for the kid. Won’t the price be worth it?”

Finally, he let out a deep breath and rang the doorbell. The door opened and a petite brunette stood on the other side. For a moment, he wondered if it was the housekeeper, until he took in her outfit. She was wearing a light blue dress and black pumps, didn’t look much older than him.

“Can I help you?” She asked.

“I’m here to see Wren.”

“May I ask what this is regarding?”

Neal sighed, rubbing the back of his neck. “I’m his son.”

The woman smiled brightly. “Neal! It is so great to meet you. I’m Belle, your father’s wife.”

He blinked a few times. “Wife? But you’re…my age.”

She chuckled. “I’m actually 30.”

“4 years isn’t a lot.”

“It’s a long story, come in, come in. I’ve heard so much about you.”

And Neal had heard nothing of her. He wasn’t sure why he was so surprised. It wasn’t like he and his father talked outside the rare holiday. Even so, his father hadn’t dated when he was young. Sure, he’d have people on his arm for different events, that was expected. Marriage, though? He hadn’t thought that was possible after his mother left.

Neal followed her inside and into the living room. “Wren, look who’s here,” Belle said.

Wren looked up from his newspaper, raising an eyebrow. “Neal. Christmas, already?”

Neal forced a chuckle. “Hey, Pop.”

His father clutched his cane and forced himself up, nodding a bit. “Scotch? Coffee?”

“I’m fine, thank you. I promise I won’t take long. I just wanted to talk to you about something.”

Wren looked him up and down. “You need money.”

Neal winced. How did his father always know? “Henry has been accepted to Arendelle Preparatory.”

Belle grinned. “That’s a wonderful school, it’s only 10 minutes from here.”

“That’s right,” Neal sent a grateful smile to Belle for keeping things less tense. “The problem is, they want me to put down an enrollment fee. If I don’t, he’ll lose his spot and he’s just worked so hard to get in…”

“So, you need money,” Wren repeated, dryly.

Neal sighed. “It’d be a loan, I’d pay you back. I never ask for favors.”

“Oh, yes, I’m well aware.”

“Wren,” Belle fixed him with a look.

Neal was surprised to see his father’s features soften when he looked at Belle. Suddenly, it was as if he were a different man. Perhaps, even the man he once was before Milah left. He slowly collected himself and turned back to his son.

“Henry deserves only the best and I never liked that he attended public school. So, I will write you a check and I’ll cover his tuition.”

Well, that had been painless. “Thank you,” Neal said, sincerely. “Pop, you have no clue how much this means to us…”

“However, there’s a condition.”

Of course. His father was a law professor at Yale, everything always came with conditions. “What is it?”

“If I’m financially involved in your life, I want to be more in your life overall.” He drummed his fingers over the cane, slowly smiling. “I want a weekly dinner. You, Henry, every Friday night.”

Neal felt his stomach drop. His father was good, too good. He knew he’d be willing to do anything to get Henry into this school. Including this. His father couldn’t just set up a payment plan like a normal person and say “See you at Christmas.” No, everything had to be tricky.

He had ran away from home for a reason. He loved the life that he and Henry had built in Stars Hollow. It was quiet, yet quirky. They had at least one meal a day at Granny’s Diner, where they’d banter with Ruby. He got to watch Robin do his own flirty banter with their liquor supplier, Regina. Their lives were happy and full.

Having dinner with his father once a week would require stepping back into a world he vowed to never show Henry to.

Yet…wasn’t that what he was doing by allowing him to attend Arendelle Prep? All of those kids would probably be in the same situation he had grown up in. He could only hope that they were better behaved and more grounded.

It was once a week, a few hours every Friday night. Henry always asked about his grandfather, why they never saw him much. He had Mary Margaret and David, Emma’s former foster parents, but they hadn’t known her very long. This was a real connection to his family. Plus, this Belle seemed to be keeping his father a bit more grounded himself.

“I don’t want Henry to know I borrowed the money,” he said, finally. “Can that please stay between us?”

“I’ll see you tomorrow at 7. You’ll get the check before you go.”

Neal blew out some air through his nose, feeling the weight lifted off his chest.

You’re doing this for Henry. It’s all for Henry.

#cobrafire #cobrafire au #where you lead verse #papafire #papafire au #rumbelle #rumbelle au #swanfire #swanfire au #queen-of-the-merry-men

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bforbookslut · 7 years

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Review: I Believe in a Thing Called Love by Maurene Goo

I have given this book ☆☆☆. 325 pages. It belongs to the Young Adult Contemporary genre. Farrar, Straus & Giroux published it. It was published 30th May 2017. I would recommend it to anyone who loves quirky heroines and light, fluffy contemporary young adult romances.

The blurb reads: “Desi Lee believes anything is possible if you have a plan. That’s how she became student body president. Varsity soccer star. And it’s how she’ll get into Stanford. But—she’s never had a boyfriend. In fact, she’s a disaster at romance, a clumsy, stammering humiliation magnet whose botched attempts at flirting have become legendary with her friends. So when the hottest human specimen to have ever lived walks into her life one day, Desi decides to tackle her flirting failures with the same zest she’s applied to everything else in her life. She finds guidance in the Korean dramas her father has been obsessively watching for years—where the hapless heroine always seems to end up in the arms of her true love by episode ten. It’s a simple formula, and Desi is a quick study. Armed with her “K Drama Steps to True Love”, Desi goes after the moody, elusive artist Luca Drakos—and boat rescues, love triangles, and staged car crashes ensue. But when the fun and games turn to true feels, Desi finds out that real love is about way more than just drama.”

I apologise that I don’t have any quotes for this review (and therefore, little to no evidence) because I went on vacation with this book and forgot to bring my post it notes.

"But I never lost the belief that you could will something just by sticking to it, by being unwavering. By keeping your eyes on the prize. And by doing that, there was nothing you couldn’t control about your own life.”

Verdict:

I wanted to really love I Believe in a Thing Called Love (IBiaTCL). After all, the MC is a girl of Asian descent (that’s me) who is naturally an overachiever (not exactly me but I can relate), has trouble dating (23 and terribly single with no prospects whatsoever) and loves Korean dramas (also me).

But I’m terribly on the fence with it.

Mostly because Desi Lee is written as such a caricature of K-dramas, ignoring the fact that Korean dramas are incredibly diverse. They have the typical high school romances (that IBiaTCL are most likely based on), crime dramas, soap opera-like dramas, family dramas and the list goes on. Even though Maurene Goo is of Asian descent, IBiaTCL seems to have been written from a very white lens and is as clichéd and predictable as they come.

But, when it comes to the K-dramas of the cheesy, romance variety, clichedness and predictability are at its core. And that’s why IBiaTCL got three stars despite how much I disliked it.

Also, it’s well-written, fast-paced and Desi Lee’s antics are incredibly funny in a what-the-fuck-are-you-doing sort of way. It’s refreshing to see her antics /mostly/ backfire and she has to try and save herself.

In the end, I hoped IBiaTCL had ended differently but ah, well.

[contains spoilers]

The Bad:

This gets a little rant-y.

There’s so much incredulity with Desi Lee that she seems like an almost unrealistic MC. Aside from the ridiculous name (which is attributed to her parents’ love for Desi Arnaz of I Love Lucy fame).

Desi is an overachiever who knows all there is to about cars, is a sports star, class president and all around know it all.

To top it off, she’s got super dooper good-looking best friends

and boo-hoo, she’s the least good-looking one

and she gets picked on because she’s an annoying know-it-all.

Yet, Desi thinks she’s super friendly and nice and that everyone likes her.

And she’s super obsessive, she stalks her crush and manufactures moments to bump into him and make him fall in love with her.

Let’s also not forget that there’s the oh-so-cliched female rival who hates Desi’s guts because of something Desi didn’t even know she was doing.

Oh, and the cherry on top of the cake, is that the guy falls immediately for her.

On the other hand, I can’t ignore the fact that since IBiaTCL is heavily influenced by K-dramas, these sort of things are pretty much standard in a K-drama plot. The heroine is unrealistically beautiful and everything seems to fall in her lap, yet, she’s branded as the outcast and the weird one, and in Desi’s case, a world-class nerd.

In K-dramas, no matter how ridiculous it sounds, the heroine goes out of her way to manipulate her love interest to fall in love with her. Even in a most recent drama, Weightlifting Fairy Kim Bok Joo, a university student pretty much sacrifices a lot of her life’s hopes and dreams to make her love interest fall in love with her, lying about who she is and such. Although, I will say that it’s mostly in high school drama romances that this sort of thing happens because romances with adults are less, for lack of a better word, ridiculous.

But it’s just such a cringe-y rendition of how K-dramas can be used to fall in love that makes reading IBiaTCL such a troublesome read.

My big overarching issue with IBiaTCL is how much YA and society has progressed today but instead, this book sort of regresses.

For one, Desi Lee is the smartest, most accomplished girl in school. Instead of using her wits and her smarts, she throws all her intelligence out the window to chase this useless boy who couldn’t even see how much she’s worth. She’s not in the Art Club and immediately, he casts her out. Like, wtv, if you can’t see how smart I am and what a great female president I would be in ten years, bye felicia. But no, Desi Lee sees the hottest thing to cross her path and give her a little attention and she latches on.

Secondly, there’s just so much female rivalry in the book that I’m like, aren’t we already past this? YA can do better, babes. Violet who is in the Art Club, insanely pretty, also Korean and also vying for Luca’s affection is portrayed as an incredibly catty, petty and vindictive woman. And oh, it’s revealed later Violet and Desi used to know each other but Desi moved on and left the church and play school and shit and forgot about Violet which is so fucking normal. She was a kid when it happened, did Violet expect her to remember for the rest of her lives? I avoid people I know in primary school. It’s fucking normal unless you go up to her and introduce yourself????

Not to mention, Desi is contrasted directly against Lucas ex-girlfriend, Emily, who’s like insanely beautiful and model like and ruined Luca’s life by letting him get arrested for her graffiti and then completely discarding him and putting him aside. But Luca gets angry when Emily wants to commemorate their relationship by putting in on social media and says:

“You just reminded me how it’s never been about me, or how you feel about me. How it’s about manipulating your image, what it looks like to everyone else. How I can never tell what’s real.”

Yeah, damn straight. Manipulating. Even Desi realises it.

But oh, yay, congrats because Luca forgives her in the end for being fucking manipulative and almost risking his life. Because she even manufactured a car accident a la Descendants of the Sun but without the precarious cliff-dangling.

But I think the worst part about IBiaTCL is that Desi was ready to give up a life of Stanford and gloriousness for fucking love. She was a definite shoo-in for the off-Ivy League institution, hell, I would give my arm and my leg to study at Stanford but she throws it all away to drive halfway across the country for Luca????? That’s a stupid ass decision right there.

And it’s the most unrealistic thing. Girls, please never ever throw away your hopes and your dreams for some stupid boy who couldn’t even appreciate you for all your smarts and wits in the first place. He’s not worth it. He’s only in it for the sex.

And speaking of useless boys, why couldn’t we have an Asian love interest??????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????? WHY WAS DESI SO OBSESSED WITH THIS BOY WHOSE HERITAGE IS NOT ASIAN AND I’M NOT GOING TO ASSUME THAT HE’S LATINX??????????????????????????? She can clearly call him Won Bin (who, by the way, is not at all the standard of male handsomeness or even at the top of the desired K-actor list). Why couldn’t Maurene Goo have given us an Asian love interest? This brings to mind the whole why are brown men so obsessed with white women on screen thing and makes me wonder if it’s the same thing here.

The Good:

One of the good things about IBiaTCL is definitely the portrayal of Korean American home life. I am neither and I can’t speak about how authentic or realistic it is but it’s nice to have these sort of experiences in YA. It’s nicer to have them explained and discussed as opposed to Jenny Han’s To All The Boys I’ve Loved Before where Korean American home life is touched on very briefly.

Although, it’s interesting that in both these books with Korean American protagonists, the mother is not present and instead, the father has to raise a daughter. But then again, even in K-dramas, this seems to be a theme.

Another thing I thought was a nice touch is that in writing IBiaTCL, Maurene Goo consulted the moderators of dramabeans.com which I would go as far to say, is the leading source of drama recaps. My sister uses it. My friends use it. I don’t lol mostly because I prefer watching my dramas as opposed to reading them. So, on the topic of K-dramas, this book is in good hands.

In conclusion, K-dramas thrive on being extremely unrealistic, as do romantic comedies. Why should I expect this book to be any different?

#book review #young adult #i believe in a thing called love #maurene goo #booklr #young adult contemporary

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mindofamaka · 7 years

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So, it’s basically independence day. This day probably solicits a wide range of responses from people, from absolute joy (because, public holiday and whatnot) to numbness. Some may have probably lost all motivation and hope for this country, due to the hardships they have faced in it.

I’m still quite young, and have been blessed, with God providing me with avenues for my most basic needs and comforts to be met. However, I know that my country Nigeria is flawed. We’re far from perfect, and have a lot of things to get right, starting from our electricity supply.

Imagine Nigeria with 24/7 electricity and all the possibilities! Imagine a Nigeria with every road and path clean, with designated paths for pedestrians and cars/motorcycles in every place. A Nigeria where efficiency and effectiveness is the order of the day. A Nigeria where key issues are brought to life instead of festering, taking life from those who wither away in silence. Hopefully, Nigeria will become better one day. I just hope that one day is sooner than later, especially with the 24/7 light concept.

I like Nigeria. I’m not just saying this because It’s Independence Day. I don’t know where this strong like came from, but it has influenced many things. My Wattpad username is even ProudlyNigerian – I created the account on October 3, 2011. I can guess why I chose that username.

I could’ve been born an East African girl (and be raved about on a Kendrick Lamar track, while having hips for days), or I could’ve been Sudanese, Zimbabwean or even Ghanian. However, God made me Nigerian. This is all part of his greater plan for me, which I am yet to figure out. I love our food, especially jollof rice, more specifically, party jollof rice. Other favourites of mine are soups – Peppersoup, Egusi, Vegetable, Okro, Banga etc. I love our tribes and languages, especially the attire associated with said tribes! Don’t even get me started on Nigerian weddings!

It fills my heart with a great pride when I see cultural dances going on. I love our slangs, and most especially the influence we have. I’d say that Nigerians have a magic touch. Some of us have such a strong ability to influence, and wherever we go, we inspire and make our mark!

So, in the theme of Nigerian pride, I’d love to share some of my admired Nigerian creatives! I didn’t want to do a typical post, as it’s already cliche enough I’m making a Nigerian pride post on Independence Day.

So, Why Creatives?

I chose to flaunt our creatives because well, we all know the prevalent mentality a lot of African parents have. A joke was once said that as an African, you can either be a doctor, lawyer, engineer or disgrace to the family. It’s funny, but a sad reality for some.

Some creatives can’t bloom, as there is no room for expression! And so they go, forcing themselves into moulds created for them by the people around them, living unfulfilled lives, with talents wasted. Creatives can also be affected especially when people around them don’t believe in their vision and goals, when people don’t take them seriously for the unconventional path they have chosen to take. Some, like Asiyami Gold, even get disowned by their family members. Granted, some pursue their creative endeavours while also keeping the conventional stuff in place, and that is also okay!

These people are honestly so amazing, with wonderful minds and ideas. They’ve also influenced me one way or the other, and I am rooting for them constantly! You may know most of them, but also this is a chance to find some new faces!

Ifeoma Amadi (@thesvnflower) – Draped in Basics

I can’t even deny it. There’s just something about Ifeoma. I don’t know why, but I can’t stop bringing her up! She inspires me so much, from her blog posts, gorgeous photos, thrift finds, to her Instagram and everything associated with it. She had such a unique style of doing things, she knows what she is doing, and she is definitely going somewhere.

I just hope I don’t get too obsessed, because sometimes this might result in copying, but honestly, she’s a babe! I’ll never regret finding her blog, never! I think she even inspired me to give blogging another shot!

Maryam Salam – Fashion By Daisy

I only discovered Maryam recently. Prior to the discovery, I’d simply been participating in her project. Maryam is the founder of The Blogger Point, a Nigerian blogger agency – the first one in Nigeria, If I may add. She is seriously quite innovative and business minded. Her blog is one you can go to in search of knowledge on blogging or business. She also has really nice outfit posts, and an absolutely gorgeous skin tone.

I’m quite excited, because I won a free 1 week blog consultation from her which she offered here! I hope to make the most of the opportunity, and that a lot of good will come out from this consultation. I’m ready to get my A-game on when it comes to my blog!

Asiyami Gold

Asiyami is honestly so awesome! She has established herself, and is only going higher! I am so proud to be Nigerian when I see creatives like her. I love her dressing, her face, her photography, and especially her Instagram feed. She takes us all around the world with her, getting such good shots of spots. She’s really had a rough time getting to where she is now, and so she deserves all the very best!

Yagazie Emezi

Yagazie is an amazing photographer with a quirky personality. Talent and creativity clearly run in her family, because her sister Akwaeke is also an awesome writer.

Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie

I can’t call Chimamanda my favourite author. This is because I have read just 3 of her works – Purple Hibiscus, Half of a Yellow Sun, and Americanah. However, I will say she is amazing.

She has made a name for herself, and that is something I want when it comes to writing. Her writing is so deep, and she tells complex stories of complex lives and complex people. That is writing goals!

Lola Shoneyin

I don’t know much about her, but what I know is that she writes really well! She authored the book ‘The Secret Lives of Baba Segi’s Wives’, which is honestly a must read. The storyline and the characters are such a mess, it makes for a great read!

The way she brings her characters to life, is something I really admire. She was also quite detailed and hilarious in the book. Just check it out, thank me later.

Emma OhMaGod

This guy is just way too creative! I love how he remixes songs and puts his special touches on them! You should seriously check him out!

Now, we’re getting to an interesting part of this post. The following people have seriously influenced me when it comes to cracking jokes. I’ve always had a strange sense of humour, and it’s always been shaped by social media. Did you know, I run a meme account called African Memes? Anyway, I have such a strong love for them, and will always be rooting for them!

Samuel Ndubuisi Okafor

Sam Okafor, who used to be known as @samtakesoff, one of the most popular Vine users, will always have a special place in my heart. He is hands down the face of ‘african parent’ jokes, most especially ‘african dad’. He made such a great impression on us, and left me dying from laughter so many times. His posts were hilarious, and I will always have his facial reaction photos stashed away for the right moments.

I loved his videos so much. He’s a great dancer, and also makes good songs. If I could, I would honestly marry him lol (he’s engaged o, to a beautiful black queen known as Sao @withlovesao)! I remember when he had a meet up in the UK or so, and hundreds of people showed up! Honestly though, I would love to meet him at least once in real life! Unfortunately, he ‘retired’ from the comedy life, choosing to focus on his music. He also lost his mum, a very sad event. I will always root for you Sam!

Tolulope Ogunmefun

Which Nigerian doesn’t know of Don’t Jealous Me AKA Tolulope Ogunmefun? I discovered him from his ‘magdonna’ video, and he has seriously blown since then! What don’t I love about him? He is funny, and his short clips on IG are hilarious. We have watched him grow so much, including becoming a married man and soon to be a father! More life!

Of course, there are many other Nigerian comedians such as the all too famous Dr Craze (Craze Clown), Wofai Fada, Comedian Ebiye, Maraji, African Ape, Klinton Cod, how can I forget The Real Femi? There’s just so much talent! Take all my MB!

Speaking of take all my MB, I am not an avid Youtube patroniser, but when I do, these are people I can turn to for interesting content. And look at God! They’re Nigerian!

Jackie Aina

Finding out she was Nigerian was honestly one of the most amazing things. Jackie has really built a brand out of her name and Youtube channel, and I love her for that.

Her videos (the few I’ve watched) are fascinating, and she’s just hilarious!

Dimma Umeh

Yes, we all love Dimma, who used to be known as That Igbo Chick. I’m not really a makeup tutorial person except for where I’m feeling like learning something new, or researching on something. I love her ‘Dimma Living‘ Vlogs. I also like how she’s in Nigeria, and she’s just so authentic. Go girl!

Uche Natori

Uche is a makeup Youtuber based in the UK! Found her by accident, really, but she’s awesome. I just love her face, she’s quite beautiful. I also like her makeup looks, and she’s definitely one you should watch out for!

Toni Olaoye

I like Toni’s makeup videos, and her intros are bomb tbh. She’s based in Canada, and I like watching her flourish as a Youtuber.

There’s many more Nigerians who are poppin’ on Youtube such as Grace Ajilore, Omabelle, Patricia Bright, Adanna of AdannaDavid, Ronke Raji, Jennie Jenkins, Shirley B. Eniang… need I go on? Nigerians are honestly everywhere, and we definitely make our mark wherever we go.

I think a shoutout needs to go to Yemisi Abraham, most popularly known as Serra Bellum.

Her feed is bomb, okay? I don’t even know what she does for a living or whatever, but her feed is bomb! It takes work to maintain such a feed.

Of course, I can’t just conclude this post without throwing some light on some gems! This section is dedicated to up and coming Nigerian blogs who are amazing. and totally need more people to see their amazing-ness! I may not know them personally, but there’s nothing wrong with giving other people shoutouts

Bunie – She Fancys That

Bunie will always have a special place in my heart, because she is the first blogger I’ve met in real life! The other ones, I simply interact with from my computer. My first impression of her was that she was this energetic, bubbly person. She’s one to definitely look out for.

Bukola Jayeoba – The Naija Brides Outlet (TNBO)

TNBO, authored by Bukola Jayeoba, is a blog I honestly found by accident. The way I found this blog also shows just how beneficial the WordPress reader is. I can search a tag, and then boom some blog posts pop up! It was through one of such searches, that I found this blog. At the time I found it, she was writing posts expressing all the challenges faced during the planning of a Nigerian wedding.

I read all the way until now, where she has transitioned from planning a wedding, to actually living married life. I love the way she writes, and can honestly see her concept becoming as big as Bella Naija. She should even be featured there! I’m not married or even planning a wedding, and I won’t be for a long while, but I love her posts so much!

Want to get on a faster track to that ‘thaty billion for the account’? Check out Saving with OJ. Want to know how one can slay while being saved and secured? Check out Saved, Secured & Slaying. Want to know how stressful Nigerian weddings are to plan/relive your memories planning or participating in one? Check out The Naija Brides Outlet.

There’s also other awesome people who are not so new, but also up and coming. These include The Blackk Beauty, Joyce Daniels, Uzzymami, Girl Eccentric, Diary of a 20 Something & Spoken Voicelessness.

Lastly, I know an awesome chick you totally need to check out! Her name is Amaka, and she is the author at Mind of Amaka! She’s a bit of a mess though, and is still trying to figure out her style, as documented here and here.

That’s right, I’m shamelessly advertising myself on my own blog, in my own blog post. What are you going to do about it? That’s right, nothing! *Hiss* Now, why don’t you check out my other pieces eh? Don’t just #BuyNigerian, #ReadNigerian too! Lol!

Recap: Nigeria So Far

Suleja Prison Visit: Lessons Learned

#BuyNigerian or Nah?

How Fake Foundation Taught me to Speak Up

God bless Nigeria, Happy Independence Day!

What is your favourite part of being Nigerian? For non-Nigerians, what do you love most about Nigeria/Nigerians?

Nigerian Pride: An Ode to Nigerian Creatives So, it’s basically independence day. This day probably solicits a wide range of responses from people, from absolute joy (because, public holiday and whatnot) to numbness.

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tobiagbajeworld-blog · 7 years

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27-year-old Kiran Millwood Hargrave, wanted to read as many books as she could. That is what she was passionate about. She could have been a lawyer but her partner Tom persuaded her to make a living from what she loves – books. The proof of him making a living as an artist gave her the courage to write. Her books echo that of author, J.K Rowling’s Wizarding world of Harry Potter books which is no coincidence with Kiran’s publisher being “the man who decided to take a gamble on J.K. Rowling” – Barry Cunningham.

Kiran’s debut novel The Girl of Ink and Stars (GOIAS) originally The Cartographers Daughter a “spellbinding world of magic, myth and adventure” book has become award winning so far that it was shortlisted for the Oxfordshire Book Awards, long listed for the Branford Boase Award, for the Waterstones Children’s Book Prize and more. The novel based on Kiran’s 13-year-old cousin in Delhi, Sabine, has opened the door to another fairytale world.

Her latest book, The Island At the End of Everything follows on with her “problem” obsession with islands, but the difference is that the book’s colony of butterflies take the focus. Even as a young girl, Kiran’s creativity resulted in a book of her delight stories so much that her parents were told by her school that perhaps her “imagination is a little too good”- maybe then being an Islomaniac is acceptable?

We met on a cloudy afternoon in Oxford at a family-run independent coffee shop known for its chocolates and breakfasts, located near the largest academic and specialist bookseller in the UK – Blackwell’s, and GOIAS was of course on the shelves. She arrived a prompt 13 minutes earlier than we scheduled, ordered a bacon sarnie appearing relaxed and excited to talk to me. Her quirky wardrobe stood out with her long dress with flittering fairy-like butterflies flapping in various colours, mirroring the art work of her latest book. Shortly after her first bite, we began the interview, no surprise that the sarnie went cold.

How did the publisher, Chicken House discover you?

“Through the normal submission process – I got an agent and then she submitted to about 20 different publishers. I made a ranking of who I would like to be with. Chicken House were in the Top Two. I loved their output. I went with Chicken House having met Barry. He did not butter me up. He said the book needed a lot of work but believed that Chicken House can make a career for me and that was the magic word ‘career’. As much as I love the GOIS, I want a career – I want to be able to get better and better. It was really hard work. We worked on it for just under two years. It was a process of proper intense revisions but he saw something in it and he believed in it and that was wonderful.”

Kiran laughed at how Chicken House was her second top choice but sincerely sounded grateful to Barry Cunningham for giving her a writing career. Early this year, Chicken House signed a three-book deal with her which she sounded delighted for CH to recognise her books and to know that her writing has received a home with CH.

She lived without writing for many years even though she grew up in a house full of books.

“If you make something a habit it will quickly become a need. I definitely believe in writing as a craft and not just a talent. I hope to get better and better.

My dad was obsessed with telling stories from the Vikings – Viking tales. My mum even before we were proficient readers would either read to us or would give us comic book versions of stories so I had the classics – The Count of Monte Cristo, Indian myths in comic book form.”

India played a huge role in Kiran’s books, not only because, the protagonist Isabella in the book is based on her cousin Sabine, who lives in New Delhi but also because Kiran’s mother is from there and most of her family reside there.

“Isabella’s Da is an amalgamation of my parents – wise and silly which I think Da is – quite playful and also very intelligent and Sabine is my cousin who lives in India. She is 13 now and I have seen her maybe seven times because of obvious distance so I was thinking about her and I based Isabella on her. I really had Sabine at the core-front of my mind. She loves reading but if she does not like a book then she won’t persevere – I love that about kids – they won’t read something just because everyone has told them they have to. “

All of the settings in GOIAS in truth exist which began of value to use for Kiran after her trip to La Gromera, the second smallest main island – which only pointed out to me that she is an ‘Islomaniac’

What is an Islomaniac?

“It is someone who is obsessed with islands. It is a problem. My first three books are set on islands – I am writing the third at the moment. There is something about whether it is the Scottish islands or the Canary Islands. I love being on an island. I just read a great book by Peter Conrad Islands. You can travel in books and they are really egalitarian in that way.”

She expressed that after finishing her first book she felt a sense of relief as she could distance herself from the book but only ever so slightly.

“There was a sense of fear because I can’t control when anyone buys it and reads it. It is like putting a bit of your soul out there – you have to focus on the people who do like it, otherwise you go mad.”

It is not hard to recognise that she is an authoress and her love for islands has developed her writing. The covers for both her books paint certain images in your mind too.

Who’s behind the magic of all the cover art?

“Helen Crawford White is the designer of all of my books so far and hopefully going forward. I love what she does. She does all kinds of different books. She does lots with Chicken House. I think she is really good of getting to heart of what a book is and you can pick it up and you want to open it. The island and everything was based off my partner Tom’s work. I drew some terrible sketches. I don’t like writing plans – I am a very visual person. I drew myself a map. That is how I plotted my book.”

“The idea was there before I got a book deal and then I worked with CH to revise it. That was a really intense emotional process which is probably why it is so sad because I was feeling very sad.”

Euphoric to discuss her cat Luna and husband artist Tom, who she collaborates with often.

“I just love cats. They are independent thinkers; they are funny to watch because they take themselves so seriously. I love dogs too but I don’t like the unarmed devotion they give you. With a cat you have to work for it. When they do choose you, you feel special. I love just having something there at home for me in the day.

“He is incredibly talented. Him in himself outside of being my partner excites me – his talent, him being a painter is exciting to me. It is really nice to have that professional admiration for each other.

“I think so often like we are told – we have to be so grateful to find that in a man but actually men are people. People should be like that anyway. I was just loving you like you were loving me so having been through something like that together – it threw us together and it really made us.”

She discussed with me how when growing up, marriage was not the epitome of her life goals with a light-hearted tone of frustration.

“I have never been one of the girls who has dreamt about marriage. My mum did not particularly want to get married, it was because of her family in India. I have never been brought up where marriage is a goal, its more about your career, being a good person. Being someone’s wife was not– if it was anyone other than Tom then marriage would not be exciting.”

She laughed with admiration.

“Love yourself.”

She touchingly reflected on her love for criticism as something that she understands and appreciates.

“I read all my bad reviews and I think I freak out people because when it is helpful, I get in touch to thank them and they apologise – lots of people are not going to like it.

It is easy to fail at something you don’t want to do so you might as well fail at something you do. Life is so short. You never know. The younger, the better, there’s only going to be more baggage. You have to take that leap of faith – I would really encourage people to be brave.”

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It was lovely meeting Kiran and I wish her all the best in her writing career. After the interview, she showed me around some of Oxford’s classic spots such as Blackwell’s book shop and the Bodleian Library which famously featured in the Harry Potter films which was an ecstatic experience – As Harry Potter fans do, we had a look around and took some pictures. I had the best time.

Keep up with her latest work here

Kiran Millwood Hargrave on being an Islomaniac, taking the leap of faith, cats and drawing terrible sketches for her book. 27-year-old Kiran Millwood Hargrave, wanted to read as many books as she could. That is what she was passionate about.

#Adventure #Barry Cunningham #Bodleian Library #books #Chicken House #Creative Writing #Feature #Girl of Ink and Stars #Harry Potter #Hogwarts #Island At The End of Everything #JK Rowling #Kiran Millwood Hargrave

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