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hlficlibrary · 5 months

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Remember to leave kudos and a comment on the fics you enjoyed to show your appreciation! You can find the library's other recs here.

🩷 Light, Spark and Fire (series) by green_feelings / @greenfeelings {E, 239k}

Life’s pretty ordinary for Harry. He lives with his best friend, got into university just like he’s planned, and manages to support himself just fine for an unbonded omega. If he sustains that lifestyle by getting paid to help alphas through their rut every now and then, that’s nothing to be hung up on. Until he’s hired by an alpha that turns everything upside down.

Or, Harry’s working on taking Louis’ walls down, until he builds his own up.

🩷 Say Something by @kingsofeverything {E, 105k}

At fifty years old and recently divorced, Omega Harry Styles isn't interested in dating. When his doctor suggests a heat and rut matching service, he signs up out of necessity. It’s the only use he has for an Alpha in his life.

Twenty-eight-year-old Alpha Louis Tomlinson aims to change that.

🩷 Ace of Spades (series) by @allwaswell16 {E, 90k}

Living as a sheltered omega in a farming village has not prepared Harry for life aboard the most notorious pirate ship to sail the Atlantic.

Or Louis is a pirate, Harry is his captive, and no one is who they say they are.

🩷 The Pros and Cons of Breathing by @hellolovers13 {E, 81k}

Omega Harry has always known he'd be married off someday, so when he's betrothed to Prince Louis, he's anxious about having to leave his life behind, but hopeful for a happy marriage.

The hope doesn't last long, with his husband avoiding him at all costs and Harry being left to fend for himself.

Can he find happiness even in a broken marriage?

🩷 I like the way you say my name (when you soak it in grace) by louisismycat / @liminalkittyfics {E, 73k}

“It’s like I’m fucking orbiting around you, you know? Like you’re some huge, beautiful planet, and I’m a piece of space junk lucky enough to be pulled in by you somehow, and now I can’t leave, even if I wanted to. And I really fucking don’t want to leave.”

OR Louis is transferred to a new city to temporarily cover for his counterpart while he is on maternity leave for the next six months.

His new co-workers talk endlessly about Harry, the omega who he’s covering for. And Louis finds himself jealous of whatever alpha as snatched him up.

Until he learns Harry is actually an unmated omega three months out from becoming a single parent.

🩷 Si Pudiera Volar by @softfonds {E, 69k}

When Harry’s fiancé leaves him for his cousin, he looks the other way for the sake of his happiness. He’ll do anything to forget about him, including joining a monastery. It isn’t until his cousin’s former lover, a pirate, appears that he realizes everything is not as it appears, and an honest pirate might be the only person worthy of his heart.

Or, a fic loosely based on Corazón Salvaje.

🩷 Little by Little by nonsensedarling / @absoloutenonsense {E, 65k}

Harry Styles is an omega who works at the London Planetarium, has lived in the same flat for ages, and is happy enough on his own. When he gets home from his first (horrible) attempt at dating in years, a new pregnant neighbor knocks on his door after smelling his cooking. He and Louis quickly become close, but their friendship gets complicated when Harry begins questioning who he is and what he likes.

Or Harry discovers figuring out who you are is more complicated than a potato metaphor.

🩷 and i would search the night sky to find you by devilinmybrain / @thedevilinmybrain {E, 56k}

Harry Styles is a high class, well-bred Omega attending Bosworth Academy - a prestigious boarding school looking over the small town on Kinsey. He has his whole life already planned for him, learning his place as the potential mate for an important Alpha, practicing his home making skills, and be obedient above all else.

When he attends a school trip into town though, he meets Louis Tomlinson - a blacksmith and mouthy Alpha who doesn't particularly care for the standards of high society nor for the people in it. But things are not always what they seem and a past grievance may change the lives of everyone involved forever.

🩷 Just for Tonight (I can be yours) by @sadaveniren {E, 42k}

Harry, prince of Cestrescir, has been betrothed to Ludvic, prince of Yorvik, since birth. He'd accepted a loveless marriage as his duty to his country, until an accident threw him in the path of a gentle alpha

🩷 crown me with your heart (your love is king) by @perfectdagger {G, 41k}

The universe must’ve had a field day when it decided to plan Harry’s life. There was no plausible explanation for anything that happened in his life anymore. Try as he may, he would never be able to control his life nor predict what would happen next.What were the odds that the one person he was sure he had fallen in love with but had completely let him slip out of his life, already resigned to the fact nothing could ever evolve between them due to Harry’s future with Eroda, happened to be the same person who had Harry’s future in his hand?

A The Princess Diaries 2: Royal Wedding au in which Harry is the Crown Prince of the small island of Eroda and Louis’ uncle is trying to take the throne from him, with a slight a/b/o twist and some more.

🩷 Endgame by @brightgolden {E, 38k}

Harry has been told all his life how grateful he should be for being born as a male omega, and how blessed their people were because the heir to the throne would be carried by The King.

What they neglected to tell Harry was what would happen if he failed to become pregnant.

Where omega Crown Prince Harry Styles is trying and failing to get pregnant for four years, but all that is about to change when courtesan alpha Louis Tomlinson comes into the equation.

🩷 You're Not My Type (still I fall) by Imogenlee / @imogenleewriter {M, 38k}

His mum is going to kill him!

Well, not kill him. Just give him a right telling off, make him admit she'd been right, then try to confine him to his room until they found a hefty Alpha to look after him and rein him in or something.

She wouldn't manage, of course. Harry is only twenty-four and has no inclination to settle down at all, especially not at the behest of an Alpha.

But, as his mum would point out, that was the same stubborn attitude that got him here: in his car, in a thunderstorm, on the side of a forsaken lane of some little countryside town in Yorkshire. His mobile's got no signal, his GPS isn't working, and he's running low on petrol, so he can't even use the heater.

Oh, and most importantly, his car is stuck in the mud, so even if the GPS was working and he knew where to go, he wouldn’t be able to.

He's been in stickier spots; he reminds himself. Way stickier. This is just a bit of rain; it'll blow over. Then Harry will just... well, alright, he isn't entirely sure what to do when the rain stops because he'll still be stuck and lost. But, hey, there won't be any rain, which is something to cheer about.

🩷 dip you in honey by delsicle / @eeveedel {E, 28k}

Princess Harry, the pearl of England, is set to be married to the youngest prince of France in just six months. Anxious about his performance on his wedding night, he enlists the help of his loyal handmaiden Louis to help him practice everything he needs to know

Omega/Omega AU

🩷 It's Been Ages by @2tiedships2 {NR, 13k}

“We need to talk,” Niall said as he plopped down on Louis’ bed. “It’s you and Harry. You like him, he likes you, it’s a match made in heaven and you will one day be mates,”

Louis shook his head in exasperation. “If you’ve been watching, you would see that Harry is interested in, like, alpha alphas. Not me.”

“What the fuck is an alpha alpha?” Niall asked with furrowed brows.

“You know what I mean,” Louis said, giving Niall a pointed look.

“I literally have no idea what you’re talking about.”

🩷 I've Always Liked the Fireworks by QuickedWeen / @becomeawendybird {T, 12k}

When alphas and omegas reach the age of twenty-one they are required to attend a Proving Day ceremony. Omegas watch as alphas do their best to compete in events, show off their skills, and prove how good a mate they can really be. The whole thing is a bit ridiculous, but Louis Tomlinson has always dreamed of finding his mate. He's got two unsuccessful Sheffield Proving Days under his belt and decides to go for the much more competitive one in Manchester. His goal is to play his best, leave it all out on the pitch, and hope that one of the omegas watching just happens to be his mate.

🩷 Come In and Change My Life by lightswoodmagic / @lightwoodsmagic {E, 12k}

He’d had the same neighbours since he’d moved into the building, a lovely, wealthy couple in their late sixties who had always invited him around for tea on Sundays. Martha had dropped off homemade biscuits the day he’d moved in, so Harry figured he may as well repeat the sentiment. He could hear someone getting closer to the door just as a flush ran through his body; oh fuck. His heat was close, too close to be knocking on a potentially unknown alpha’s door, but it was too late. The door swung open, and Harry’s mouth dropped. He’d never been overly interested in football, couldn’t find the fascination in watching men run around after a ball for hours aside from their uniforms, but he knew who this was. Louis Tomlinson, alpha, captain of Manchester United, star in a number of Harry’s heat addled fantasies, was his new next-door neighbour.

Or, Harry and Louis become friends when Harry looks after Louis' cat during away games, until one night at a party changes everything between them. It's just a shame Louis' going to be away for the FIFA World Cup for three months.

🩷 Just Jump by @jaerie {E, 9k}

Finally, after years of suffering alone, the insurance plan at Harry's new job covered omega heat services. As a grown omega adult, it finally felt like the right time to try it out. And, since taking an entire week of heat leave would really put him behind at work, using a service to shorten it seemed like a responsible decision. At least that’s how he rationalized it. He was nervous about his decision but it was too late. The doorbell rang.

“Hi!” The alpha said again and Harry took the hand he offered and shook it firmly. “I’m Louis from Omega Services. It’s nice to meet you.”

🩷 a body wishes to be held & held by @turnyourankle {E, 9k}

Harry wants to return the favour after Louis helps him out with his heat.

🩷 How Much My Heart Depends by @lululawrence {NR, 6k}

Louis is an alpha working as a fraud analyst who keeps having Bad Days. Harry is an omega working in Quality Support who shares a cubicle wall with Louis and only wants to help. Maybe this is the perfect chance for them to finally meet face to face.

🩷 As one we are everything/We are everything we need by louloubaby92 / @louloubabys1992 {M, 5k}

Harry finally marries the love of his life. He's got the mating mark, he's got Louis' ring on his finger.

And now, he's on his honeymoon. Louis is but a door away, waiting for him.

Honestly, he doesn't understand why he's nervous.

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rafemotherfuckingcameron · 11 months

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Requesting Rafe Cameron

Could you do a fluff!Rafe when he comes to visit you at work for the first time and all the co-workers are surprised at how hot he is.

I HAVE READ ALL YOU FICS AND THEY ARE AMAZING, IM SO IN LOVE. DEFINITELY ONE OF MY FAVOURITE WRITERS OF TODAY

Meeting Rafe

Word Count: 2.1k

Pairing(s): Rafe x reader

Warnings: Sexual References, kissing

Summary: Readers dad meets Rafe for the first time.

Masterlist

6 Months Ago……

Y/n could never have envisioned in a million years that she would find herself in a relationship, let alone the KOOK PRINCE RAFE CAMERON.

Y/n was quite introverted, keeping mostly to herself and interacting primarily with her family. Her job was just as unremarkable; she worked in administration, handling tasks like bill payments and data input – essentially everything that typically comes to mind when you think of administrative work. This was all for her family's business.

Leaving school after completing 10th grade, she entered the workforce directly. It was her father's business, and though she wasn't officially a personal assistant, she was practically treated like one. Y/n felt like she was constantly under her father's thumb, especially since her parents had separated about three and a half years ago.

As she turned 21, she had hoped for more respect and independence, but the reality proved to be quite the opposite. However, one night, she took a daring step and sneaked out of her father's house to attend the Annual Bonfire at the beach.

Dressed in a white top, denim shorts, and a lovely flowery headpiece, even though she didn't know many people there, she felt that if she didn't break free from her father's shadow soon, she'd remain trapped in his world.

As Y/n arrived at the bonfire, the festivities were in full swing, with intoxicated individuals scattered all around. She made her way to the keg to grab a drink, completely unaware that from the moment she walked in, Rafe Cameron had not taken his eyes off her. He was captivated by the way her long hair gracefully fell over her shoulders, the rhythmic sway of her hips to the music, and her sun-kissed figure.

Rafe made his way through the crowd, leaving his group of friends behind, determined to approach her. Just as he was about to tap her on the shoulder, Y/n unexpectedly turned around and their collision resulted in her spilling her drink all over him.

"OMG, I'm so sorry," she exclaimed, reaching for some napkins on the table to help wipe him down.

"I totally ruined your shirt," Y/n continued to apologise, her voice filled with concern.

Rafe gently took the napkin out of her hand and reassured her, saying, "Hey, it's all good, don't worry about it."

Y/n looked up and found herself gazing into his stunning deep blue eyes. In that instant, they both locked eyes and shared a profound connection. It felt like love at first sight.

With a playful grin, Rafe quipped, "If it was my favourite shirt, it would be a different story."

Their laughter filled the air, and Y/n placed the used napkins behind her and tossed them into the bin, breaking the moment but feeling a newfound connection with Rafe.

"I'm Y/n, by the way," she introduced herself, extending her hand for a handshake.

"Rafe," he replied, shaking her hand with a smile. "I know," he chuckled.

He then asked, "Do you want to dance?" setting his cup down.

"Sure," she replied, and he placed his hand on her lower back, guiding her to the dance area, the start of a night they would both remember.

Dancing to the rhythm of "Promiscuous," Rafe's hands found Y/n's waist, gently pulling her closer to him. She welcomed his advances, placing her hands behind her head and on his neck. As the alcohol began to take effect, Y/n pressed her hips back into him, their bodies moving in sync.

Rafe leaned down and started placing soft, wet kisses along her neck. Y/n tilted her head to grant him better access, and he took the opportunity to gently suck on her nape just above her breast.

With a firm grip on her hips, he pulled her back onto his bulge, their intense attraction growing with each passing moment.

Y/n spun around, her right hand finding its place on Rafe's neck, and she crushed her lips into his with a kiss that was soft yet filled with intense passion. He gripped her butt and signalled for her to jump, a gesture she eagerly followed. They left the bustling party behind, seeking a quieter spot.

Leaning against a tree, Rafe's fingers started tracing circles up the inside of her thigh, causing her to release a soft moan of pleasure. Suddenly, he withdrew from the kiss, and Y/n felt the loss of his lips on hers. Concerned, she asked, "Is something wrong?"

"No, it's just... I don't want to go too fast," Rafe explained. "I really like you, and I don't want our first time to be at some party when we're both drunk."

Y/n smiled in agreement and gave him a gentle peck on the lips, her hands resting on his chest. "Besides, I would like to take you on a date first," he added.

Their moment was interrupted by fireworks being set off in the distance. Y/n responded with enthusiasm, wrapping her arms around him and saying, "I'd love to go on a date with you." Their connection deepening, they continued to enjoy the magical moment together.

Today…..

As Y/n's alarm blared, she reluctantly got out of bed and began the process of getting ready for work. Today was a bit different because her father would also be at the office. She had a quick breakfast of toast and prepared a takeaway coffee. Y/n had told her father that she would be picked up after work, but she didn't mention that her boyfriend, Rafe, would be the one picking her up.

Y/n and Rafe had been dating since their very first date, and he treated her like she was a princess. He spoiled her, buying her anything she wanted, and he respected her in ways she had never experienced before. Their love had grown stronger with time, and Y/n cherished every moment they spent together.

Rafe was undeniably wealthy, but his financial status never altered the way he behaved when she wasn't around. He was genuine, transparent, and always open and honest, with no secrets between them. Given his family's substantial wealth, they were often targeted by people looking to benefit from it. Rafe had his own set of bodyguards, and when they began dating, Y/n also had the protection of these bodyguards, ensuring their safety and privacy in the midst of the world's expectations and temptations.

Around 3:00 PM, three black SUVs pulled up in front of the office. One of Y/n's co-workers noticed this on the security camera and alerted everyone, saying, "Are you guys seeing this?" He drew everyone's attention to the SUVs parked outside.

A man in a black suit, sporting black sunglasses and an earpiece, emerged from one of the cars. This was James, the head of Rafe's security team. He positioned himself near the passenger door, standing on guard, prepared for any potential trouble or security concerns.

*Ding* Message from Rafe 😘

Rafe: We are out the front baby:) Y/n: I can see that!! 😉 Rafe: WYM? Y/n: Cameras! Rafe: 😂😂 Y/n: Everyone thinks someones going down. Rafe: Someone is…. Y/n: What? Who? Rafe: Me on you tonight 👅 Y/n: 🤤🤭 Y:n See you soon

As the discussions about the SUVs outside continued, Y/n's co-worker, Dillon, arrived in the work van. He couldn't help but notice the man standing near the cars and briefly exchanged a look with him. Dillon grabbed his belongings from the van's passenger side and entered the office, placing his things on his desk. His attention was now fixed on the office's surveillance cameras, observing the scene outside.

Dillon couldn't contain his curiosity and asked, "Who is that?" He began pacing around the office, periodically glancing out the window, clearly concerned about any potential developments or approaching individuals.

"Somebody should go out and see what they're doing," Y/n's father remarked with a hint of humor. The rest of the team started playfully pointing to each other, like children discussing who would confront the "bad people" outside.

However, Y/n rose from her seat and walked towards them, saying with a smirk, "I'll go." This unexpected decision left them all surprised, and they collectively expressed their concerns, as if they were about to advise her not to go. Turning to face them, Y/n reassured them, "It's okay; they're here for me." With that, she left the office to confront the situation outside.

As Y/n walked out and James gave her a kiss on the cheek, the onlookers in the office still wore puzzled expressions. Y/n greeted James, asking, "Hey, how are you?" and taking a step back.

James responded with a laugh, "Not much today, just listening to Rafe talk about you all day." The playful exchange revealed the camaraderie within the group.

"I heard that," Rafe chimed in as another guard opened the car door for him. He got out of the car, approaching Y/n to give her a kiss on the lips. Breaking away from the kiss, he wrapped his arm around her shoulders. Y/n chuckled and leaned into his side, saying, "Sounds like a great day." Their affectionate reunion showcased the strong bond between them.

"When do you finish, baby?" Rafe inquired.

"Right now, I'll go get my stuff," Y/n replied, leaving his side and heading back inside to collect her belongings.

Y/n’s Father’s POV

"I'll go," Y/n declared as she walked past her father. He shouted back, "What?"

Y/n reassured, "It's okay, they are here for me." She then left the office, and her father and co-workers couldn't help but watch the scene unfold on the surveillance cameras. They observed as a man in a suit kissed her on the cheek and they engaged in conversation, appearing to know each other. Another man exited the car and also kissed her, which left everyone in the office exclaiming, "OMG."

One of her co-workers, Dillon, asked, "Is that her boyfriend?" To which the father replied, "I don't know?" The situation had them all confused, and they anxiously awaited Y/n's return, trying to make sense of what they had witnessed.

—

Y/n re-entered the office and noticed everyone staring at her. Her father's voice held a tinge of anger as he inquired, "Who is that?"

Calmly, Y/n replied, "That's my boyfriend," and gestured with her index finger towards the outside.

Her father stepped forward, asking rather abruptly, "Are you going to introduce me to him?"

Y/n responded with a hint of humor, "I wasn't planning to yet, but I can tell from your reaction that you'd like to."

"Of course, I want to meet him and that guy in the suit who kissed you!" her father exclaimed, his anger evident. Feeling his emotions, Y/n agreed and instructed him to wait there.

She then returned outside to Rafe and James, saying, "Hey, my father wants to meet you," as she intertwined her fingers with Rafe's. Rafe asked, "Only if you want me to?" to which Y/n nodded. "You too, James, he insists," she added, conveying her father's desire to meet them both.

As they followed Y/n inside and met her father, she introduced Rafe by saying, "Dad, this is my boyfriend, Rafe." Rafe extended his hand, and Y/n's father shook it. Y/n continued, "And this is James, Rafe's... our bodyguard," the last part said a bit more quietly, though her father certainly heard it.

Y/n's father, always inclined to assume the worst, became angry and questioned, "Why would you need a bodyguard? Are you putting my daughter in danger?"

Rafe calmly reassured him, saying, "I would never put Y/n in danger; she is safe with us. You don't have to worry." He placed an assuring arm around Y/n's waist.

Y/n sensed the tension and intervened, saying, "Okay, we should go," as she stepped away to collect her belongings. Rafe and her father remained facing each other in a tense silence.

One of Y/n's co-workers, Dillon, pulled her aside and said, "Just thought I'd let you know we all think your boyfriend seems really nice. And he's really good-looking too," with a sly grin.

Y/n smirked back at Dillon and replied, "Thank you." She then came back to Rafe, said her goodbyes to her father, and walked out of the office behind James. James opened the car door for them, and Rafe helped her into the car before following her.

They settled in the back of the car, holding each other after the rather strange conversation. Y/n let her shoulders drop and apologised, saying, "Sorry about him."

Rafe reassured her, "Don't apologise for him, baby," and gave her a hug.

His hand brushed her face, and he leaned in for a kiss. His hand traced up her thigh and squeezed it. His lips moved from her mouth to her neck, leaving small purple marks.

"I love you," Y/n said, pulling his hair gently.

Rafe responded with affection, "I love you too, and as soon as we get home, I'm going to show you just how much." Their connection remained strong, and they looked forward to a more private and intimate moment together tonight.

📆🏢💑❤️📆🏢💑❤️📆🏢💑❤️📆🏢💑❤️📆🏢💑❤️📆🏢💑❤️📆🏢💑❤️📆🏢💑❤️📆🏢💑❤️📆🏢💑❤️📆🏢💑❤️📆🏢

#outer banks #rafe obx #rafe cameron #outerbanks rafe #rafe x reader #rafe outer banks #rafe mf cameron #obx #rafe!hot #drew starkey #drew starkey x reader #daddy issues

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tschulijulesjulie · 4 months

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I need book recommendations please. I read captive prince and I’m losing my mind.

ooooh gladly!

so first of all, nothing really compares to CaPri, however i do have some - imo - very good recommendations that might have similar vibes.

The Kingdoms by Natasha Pulley - historical (18th and 19th century) Fantasy. Amnesia and time-travelling, with a veeeery Laurent-coded love interest.

The Scottish Boy by Alex De Campi - historical (14th century) Captive/Prisoner and (reluctant) man who has to hold him captive, secret identity, political schemes, revenge, war

Solomons Crown by Natasha Siegel - historical (12th century), Crown Prince of England (Richard Lionheart) and King of France (Philipp II) falling in love despite their countries being enemies, political schemes, strained family relationship to the point of going to war against family members, allies to enemies to allies again

A Taste of Gold and Iron by Alexandra Rowland - not my personal favourite but still good, Fabtasy, outstanding non-european-centric world-building, anxiety rep, queer-normative, Disgraced Prince and his guard(s) having to uncover a political intrigue that could dethrown his sister, the monarch, nightly shenenigans in taverns while hiding their identity, forced proximity, kinda co-dependent relationship

Winters Orbit by Everina Maxwell - SciFy, Prince has to marry the widow of his cousin for diplomatic reasons who then gets accused of having killed his first husband, political intrigue, past abuse

Fence by CS Pacat and Johanna the Mad - graphic novels, sports (fencing), YA?, might be an entirely different setting but the character dynamics are reminiscent of CaPri/ you can tell Pacats writing

The Aeneid by Virgil - the great Roman epic. to this day im convinced Pacat might have drawn some inspiration from this (or possibly the Odyssee and the Iliad)

I hope that helps. Thank you for your ask!

#captive prince #book recommendations

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cafeleningrad · 3 months

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No, I don't think that RGU "subverts fairy tale narratives". On the contrary. I don't know how intentional the writing was on the writer's part but RGU's themes, structure, and resolution are much closer aligned to the Grimm-fashion fairy tales than the manicured opening sequence might make the viewer believe. At some points they do conciously reference fairy tales whilst alos having a good grasp on it's story contents. In fact, the opening sequence is less accurate about fairy tales than the actual plot of RGU.

Anyhow, actually a quick rambling how many fairy tale motives are in Utena. some referenced to, some overtly named, some just by my personal associciation:

The only fairy tale where the story is actually changed is Sleeping Beauty. There the visual reference is extremely strong with the duel plattform (a tower) being hidden in a forbidden forest, surrounded by thorns and roses, a princess waiting/sleeping (in her coffin) on a bed of roses. But unlike in the tale, the princess isn't woken up by the whimse of the prince but is allowed to choose if she even wants to wake up. [By the way, here's an essay comparing the pschycological literary interpretation of (The contemporary reading of) Sleeping Beauty with RGU.]

On the theme of girl locked away in a tower: Rapunzel come to my mind. Indeed Rapunzel loves her prince but he's also her co-conspirator as well as mean to escape her captivity. Their scheming is interrupted, both get horribly injured while attempting to escape. They both wnader around for a long time until their finally find each other. Scarred, they still are deeply happy to have found each other once more.

One OST track is titled "Bluebeard's castle". So fitting to be played in Akio's tower. The titular Bluebeard appears at first charming. Yet his bride discovers his secret chamber of previously killed women, relaizing what a monster her once so enarmoured husband is. It's a fairy tale beginning with a slight snese of unease, building up dread the longer the bride resides in the castle. What a perfect association for Akio's facade and body count of abuse.

The next Bluebeard in the making, Touga explicitly compares Utena with "the golden Goose"; In which every one tries to rip out the bird's golden feathers, creating a gigantic queue of greed. Even though Touga most likely wants to compare Utena to something precious worth exploiting, his comparison misses how the goose's doing finally made a princess laugh, and none actually was able to rip out the precious gold feathers.

Speaking of animals... In an conversation during which Nanami has a hard time naming her ever growing distress towards Touga's and her relationships, one statue in the background switches in the form of the "Musicians of Bremen". Nanami carriesway more animal associations than even Anthy. In fact Nanami turning into a cow is her being treated as domestic labour animal. In "The musicians of Bremen", labour animals are to be slaughtered after they can't labour anymore. So they flee their circumstances, band together (heh), and find a new home as band of misfits. Whereas the statue is a string of visual warnings about Nanami's dangerous situation, it gives me hope, that Nanami might, like the Bremen musicians, escape to a not glamorous but future full of support and friendship.

Last association coming to my mind. This is an entire free-falls association but with so many Utena-Nanami-paralles, why not make an animal comparison, too? Utena reminds me so much of the "Puss in Boots". Not destined to be anything but a cat, anything but a girl, she puts on clothing that shoul dnot be hers. It suits her quiet well. Yet the puss does it's deeds to help out their master who gave her the boots. They trick an evil magician with nothing but cleverness and ligt up their master into fortune. Utena doesn't help out of thanksfulness yet, like the cat, she does act out of care and adoration for the rose bride, and triumphs over a sinister figure that seemed once so overly powerful. LIke the wizard turning himself into a mouse, Akio turns out to not be overly powerful but actually a scared manchild who refuses to grow up, and actually isn't the allmighty figure he paints himself to be.

[Bonus: Saionji as the frog prince. Very serious analysis. Even though the popular image is one of a princess kissing a frog, and him turning into a prince, the actual tale is... not so gentle. The frog asks the princess to take hiom with her, in return to giving her back the ball that actually belongs to her. The princess feels humiliated having to play-act a romantic dinner scene at the frog's demands to sit on her side and be fed. Her protests are overruled by her father reprimanding her to hold her promise towards the frog. (Anthy mentioning how Akio is more like her father to her.) But the princess has her fill with the impertinent frog, throws him against a wall, and there: He becomes a prince. The parallels between Saionji getting beat up like a punching bag until he finally chills (somewhat) down are almost too obvious. Also, the frog and him share the colour green.]

In general, fairy tales often feature disempowered protagonists, often young women, most of the time they aren't even royalty. The protagonists often survive the most dire consequences by cleverness, resourcefulness but also their kindness to strangers - not raw power or powerful magic. I've no idea why people claim that retellings are "dark", "misbehaving", or "adult" because not only is it inaccurate to whom fairy tales were told, but even in format of children's publications, fairy tales are incredibly dark already. Children's fears of abusive parents, being neglected, mistrateatment, poverty, the world being scary being forsaken by mistakes by those who were supposed to care for the child, domestic violence, even incestuous abuse do feature in fairy tales - however, the protagonists survive the most dire of straits. Even if hurt in the process, they surivive, and "lived happily ever aftere". It's a faint, promise that they found happiness anyway. How similar it rings with "someday we will shine". If these common elements don't ressemble Utena's journey, and the circumstances of her friends, i don't know what else would bear a stronger ressemblance.

Apart from Anthy's and Akio's vague connection to godhood, and allegory, none of the kinds is special. Utena is a classic fairy tale orphan child, no special parentage, only her role as protagonist follows her fending off the darkness around her.

#RGU meta #Revolutionary Girl Utena #one of these days I will finish my long Utena-fairy tale essay. One day...!#(not kidding I spend already hours and 25 pages on this + academic lreading on fairy tales in Japan)

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brainrotlesbian · 6 months

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The Toy and the Prince

Part 2: co-captives

Jordan woke to the sound of muffled crying and a splitting headache. He slowly opened his eyes, the harsh light of the cell hurting them. He blinked a few times, then realization hit him all at once. He was in the dungeon. He was a prisoner. No, not a prisoner. A captive. A hostage, almost.

A thick cloth was shoved in his mouth, tied tightly and mercilessly at the back of his head, muffling any words he’d say. His arms were chained above him, his wrists locked in backwards so they were facing behind him. His fists were wrapped tight in tape, ensuring he couldn’t try to pry his way out.

“Mmmmph!!!” He pulled on his restraints, the chains clanking uselessly. He huffed, then turned to the person he’d tried rescuing before.

They sat on the floor, arms chained to the wall, while Jordan had to remain standing. They still had the muzzle locked onto their face, new bruises and scratches on their skin, especially their cheeks. Their shoulder-length blond hair was more tangled now, their beautiful blue eyes bloodshot and tear-stained. They’d been stripped of their clothes entirely, and they’d curled their legs up to hide their crotch. Their head was lowered as they continued sobbing.

Guilt surged in his chest. No wonder they’d panicked when Gabriel had come to his room— Gabriel. He betrayed them. He’d been torturing this poor innocent person for who knows how long. And Jordan had unknowingly simply given them back to him.

He looked away, staring blankly at the cell door. He couldn’t look at them, knowing he was part of the reason they were stuck here. A lump formed in his throat, and he bit down into his gag to avoid crying. He didn’t want them to see him cry.

The dungeon door slammed open, and Empress Celeste stormed in with a huff. She immediately stormed up to Jordan, and smacked him across the face.

“You little brat!” she screamed, grabbing his face and pinching it tight. “Had to interfere with yet another one of my personal projects?!” She threw him back with an irritated huff. “Although, I suppose, it’s not like you could’ve known. I must thank you for returning Mr. Hayes to where he belongs.” She turned to Jordan’s companion, who sobbed upon looking at her.

Their name was Hayes? Or, their surname was at least. Or, was it “he”? Jordan wasn’t sure.

Celeste stood in front of Hayes, her hands on her hips. Then she knelt down in front of him, tipping his head up with her hand, forcing them to look at her. He whimpered, shaking, but too afraid to move away from her. Anger flared in Jordan’s chest as he watched, almost shaking with rage.

“Mmnnn!!!” Jordan yanked hard on his restraints, trying to get to them; to stop her for tormenting Hayes like this. “Mmhmmm!!!”

Celeste turned to look at her brother, then solidly slammed her knee into Hayes’s chest, forcing a wheezing gasp out of them. They gasped, struggling to breathe through the confines of their muzzle. Their head lowered, sniffling. She grinned, then stepped away from him.

“Gabriel!” she called, and he soon came running in, looking at both of the captives in the room.

Jordan glared at him, furious with his betrayal. Gabriel didn’t respond, rather facing his attention to the empress.

“Continue what you were doing with Mr. Hayes here,” she ordered. “And my brother…” She turned to face him. “Do with him what you like.”

“Won’t the people notice that the Prince has gone missing?” he asked. “That’s gonna be difficult to hide.”

She pursed her lips, while Jordan shouted muffled nonsense at her through his gag.

“We could say that he was killed by a rival. They’d rally behind his death and search for justice for him,” she suggested.

“Mmmmfff!” Jordan yanked on his restraints again, although he wasn’t able to pull very hard on them due to the angle of his arms. He growled in frustration, glaring at his sister and her traitorous soothsayer.

His attention slipped to Hayes, who he realized had been looking at him sorrowfully. They locked eyes for a second, before Jordan quickly looked away, tears beginning to pool in his eyes.

“Yes, I think that’ll work quite nicely,” she decided, tapping her fingers on her chin. “You can do whatever you like with these two, now. I have some other business to attend to.”

She quickly swept out of the cell, leaving them now at the mercy of Gabriel. He eyed the two captives, before finally settling his gaze on Jordan, who swallowed nervously despite the cloth stuffed in his mouth.

“I think I have an idea, hold tight.” Gabriel switched open a pocket knife and began approaching Jordan.

He shrieked as Gabriel approached him, kicking his legs wildly, but it didn’t do any good. He was stuck, and at the mercy of his captor.

Gabriel held the blade of the knife up to Jordan’s silk button-up shirt, which was rumpled and wrinkly. His eyes widened and he let out a muffled cry, shaking his head rapidly. It did nothing to dissuade Gabriel, though. He began to unbutton the shirt until it hung open, exposing his chubby belly and chest.

“Mmm!” Jordan tensed, trying to back away from Gabriel now that he was more exposed, but his restraints kept him in place.

“Easy now, boy, I’m not gonna hurt you,” Gabriel hissed through his teeth. “As long as you don’t give me a reason to hurt you.”

“Nnnnfff!” This time it was Hayes who cried out. He’d brought himself to his knees and was now straining against the chains holding him to the wall.

Jordan couldn’t help but let his eyes wander for a second, catching a glimpse of the rest of Hayes’ body. He quickly looked down at the floor, ashamed of himself. He didn’t even know this person’s first name, and yet…

“Shut it, pretty boy,” Gabriel hissed. “I’m not gonna hurt the prince here.” He slid the blade of the knife easily through the right sleeve of Jordan’s shirt, up to the collar. He then repeated the process on the left sleeve, letting the torn shirt pieces fall uselessly to the ground.

“Dress code here,” he explained, his voice dripping with mockery. “You’ll get used to it. Anyway, I hope you two have fun; I’ll be back tomorrow for the real work to begin.”

“Mmph?!” Jordan whipped his head up, but their captor was already walking out of the cell door. The heavy metal door slammed shut behind him, and he heard the clicking of the lock. His heart sank.

He was stuck.

Taglist (ignore that I forgot about this the first time 🥴): @saffitaffi @gala1981 @fleur-a-whump @scoundrelwithboba

#whump #whump writings #OC whump #Mathias Hayes #Jordan Flores #empress celeste flores #Gabriel Young #my OCs #kidnapped whump #gagged whump #gagged whumpee #cocaptives #nudity cw

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sabine-smitten-obviously · 2 months

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And now i want my neck bitten ...

... and can pls somebody help me with the heat???

Hello my lovely co-readers! I fell into my first A/B/O-fanfic and what can i say ... I have another fanfic-review or more ff-recommendation for you!

Mark of the serpent by @naromoreau and @summerofspock

Whats it about:

Prince Aziraphale is about to be crowned King of Angelhaven when he's taken captive by pirates. When he's sold as a pleasure slave to King Crowley, ruler of the nation readying for war with his, he is forced to keep his identity a secret as he tries to find a way home and keep peace. But not everything at King Crowley's court is as it seems and Aziraphale will have to face machinations of a Royal Court that are far more complex than he had thought. A Captive Prince AU with an omegaverse twist.

What i love about it:

❤️Well, for starters - this is my very first contact with the Omegaverse. I never read anything like this before.

Basically in this story it means that Crowley is an Omega, he is a male but can get pregnant (yes i googled it and yes there are even explanatory pages for that ... 😅 i just took it as given and read on). Aziraphale is a male Alpha. I have come across some A/B/O-stories so far but never started them. Why here? Well because of the plot - Aziraphale a prince and Crowley a King - and Az becoming a pleasure slave? I am sorry, but who am I to resist?

The whole setting is already like a tale, so this makes it a lot easier to just take Omegaverse in additionally.

🤷‍♀️That said if you never have read something like this before, mind the tags. Though i would like to add: i only read stories with happy ends and sometimes the tags are even a bit off-scaring and i am truly happy i just looked at the "eventual happy ending"-tag and dove right in.

❤️When you read the summary you already know the ending, right? I mean a prince, a king, rivaling kingdoms - come on! BUT - as always its the way how we get there and the plot here is twisted, which i found quite interesting.

🤔There is also a bit of tension here, you might even call it angst - i have to admit in the last third i once went back to check on the tags if it really predicted a happy ending. Go through with it - its worth it!

❤️Without any spoilers - there is quite a span where Aziraphale has to earn Crowleys trust and love. And though i sometimes thought Crowley was a bit overreacting (i think Demon Crowley wouldnt have been able to resist Aziraphale for so long 😂) - i actually found it very healing for ME to see Ziraphe so stable and safe in his love for Crowley.

🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️

OMG the explicit scenes! You have to know that in Omegaverse Omegas go into heat and Alphas into rut. You can imagine what happens to explicit scenes when the hormones kick in on top ... I think i am going in heat, too 😂

Look out for:

🤓a little bonus!!! there is an extra fanfic, one shot, telling Crowleys perspective on the first shared heat!

My favorite quote:

“Acceptance is a powerful thing. Once I accepted I could never stop loving you, things got easier.”

So if you like tales, are into very explicit scenes and want to give Omegaverse a try, this probably is a very good and easy start for you!

I am absolutely hooked and will look for more GOOFF (good-omens-omegaverse-fanfics) now. If you have some recs, pls comment!!! 🤗

Reading is not a hobby - it´s an attitude.🤍

#ineffable husbands #good omens #crowley #fanfic #good omens fanfic rec #good omens fanfiction #good omens fic #good omens omegaverse #omegaverse #alpha beta omega #book recommendations #books and reading #aziraphale loves crowley #reading #goodreads

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lqtraintracks · 11 months

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20 Questions for Fic Writers

Thank you @maesterchill @danpuff-ao3 and @nv-md for the tag! <333

1. How many works do you have on AO3?

314

2. What’s your total AO3 word count?

1,295,054

3. What fandoms do you write for?

Harry Potter is the big one. I've also written some Captive Prince, Locked Tomb, and one Call Me By Your Name fic

4. What are your top 5 fics by kudos?

Right Hand Red; Hung Like a Horntail; Slip Into My Lover's Hands; Weeds or Wildflowers (written with the very talented @unmistakablyoatmeal); and check this hand 'cause I'm marvelous

5. Do you respond to comments? Why or why not?

I try. I'm seriously behind. The truth is, I'll never get around to replying to them all. I will someday die with a thousand unanswered comments. But I do try. And I read each and every one and they touch my heart. I'm so very grateful for all the wonderful comments I've received and continue to receive!

6. What is the fic you wrote with the angstiest ending?

Oof. I hardly ever end things badly. But there was one wee ficlet; lemme go hunt it down. (*plays elevator music*) Ah, here it is: Not-Forever Is Still Forever. It's not MCD or anything. Draco just leaves for Argentina for two years. *shrug emoji* But I like to think I've gotten pretty good at baking some realistic angst into the middle of things, if not writing angty endings. I prefer it that way.

7. What’s the fic you wrote with the happiest ending?

All of them except for Burning the Ground, which is an open ending. I'll be honest, I don't like the word fluff. I'm never trying to write fluff, which, to me, denotes a level of uncomplicated sweetness. Maybe others define it differently. But I don't think happy endings are necessarily fluffy. I want my happy endings to put tears in your eyes, to move you. I want to evoke different things with different sorts of happiness for different phases of life. RHR's ending is about a feeling of freedom mostly, of getting to face the next part of their lives without dread. Take You Home has a similar vibe but with them a bit older; they've experienced the painful and mundane disappointments you have to weather in this life that have nothing to do with fighting a dark wizard and everything to do with existential questions about who we are, how we go on, what do you do when it doesn't work out, when you've changed and you don't know who you are anymore. I loved ending it with all their friends, at a march for trans rights. Heart Like Neon has an ending that makes *me* the most happy. I modeled it after an episode of Grey's Anatomy where you find out at the end of the ep that two important characters got married. The whole ep, none of their friends know, then at the end they play 'Bones' by Josh Record, and you go back in time by a few weeks and you see it. When I wrote the end of HLN, I had that song playing in my head from the end of the party at the Weasley's, to jumping three months earlier, to Harry and Draco in Paris. That's a pretty goddamned happy ending. It makes me cry. <3 (Also the art that @bluebutter-art made for it makes me bawl happy tears!!!)

8. Do you get hate on fics?

I was going to say hardly ever but then I *just* got some last week! LOL. Still, I'm very lucky that it's not even once in a blue moon. That stuff is so arbitrary too. I'm going to quote my good friend @elrhiarhodan: People... they're fuckin nuts. :D

9. Do you write smut? If so, what kind?

LOL yes. A lot of different kinds? I want to try a little of everything as a writer.

10. Do you write crossovers? What’s the craziest one you’ve written?

No. I mean, I probably have a couple times over the course of my literal decades in some fandom or other, but they're not worth noting.

11. Have you ever had a fic stolen?

Yes.

12. Have you ever had a fic translated?

Yes, several, and into multiple languages. I think that's so cool!

13. Have you ever co-written a fic before?

Definitely! In HP I've written with sdk, @the-starryknight and @nv-md, plus I once did a wild round robin with a big group of people. I'm not good at round robins, I've realized. Too much of a control freak.

14. What’s your all time favourite ship?

Drarry, totally. But right up there is Harry/Teddy and Harry/Teddy/Draco. Then Ginny/Pansy, Charlie/Teddy, James Sirius/Albus Severus (with Teddy too sometimes). In CaPri, I love Damen/Laurent, but @linecrosser had totally made me ship when Damen lends Laurent out to Nikandros for a threesome and also Auguste/Laurent. I also hardcore ship my own original characters from my novel. <3

15. What’s a WIP you want to finish but doubt you ever will?

I don't do WiPs really.

16. What are your writing strengths?

Oof, this is tough. Pacing? Interpersonal relationships? Smut, for sure. LOL. I think I do well writing things that are transgressive or maybe even filthy with a lot of tenderness and compassion and deep, deep love mixed in. And I think I'm getting really good at making people cry when I want them to. Readers, that is. :D

17. What are your writing weaknesses?

Convoluted plots. Can't do them. I wish I could. I can't write a mystery to save my life. I'm also pretty bad at heavy angst. I also wish I could write something nonlinear, but my brain just doesn't work that way.

18. Thoughts on writing dialogue in another language in fic?

It's interesting that this is a question because it's meaningful to me not because of fic but because of my novel. I have a Spanish-speaking character, fluent in English, but sometimes he says things in Spanish. I'm very VERY lucky that @capiturecs read my novel both as a sensitivity reader for Latinx/Latine/Latino aspects but also to correct my Spanish and make it realistic and conversational! I'll be forever grateful! I also now really REALLY want to learn Spanish! <3

19. First fandom you wrote for?

Sorry, I don't share this publicly.

20. Favourite fic you’ve written?

Oh this is mean. This is cruel. I can't possibly answer this! RHR has got to be in there. Heart Like Neon. Blood and Fire. Phoenix in the Fire. Take You Home. Wonderful Electric (cover me in you). A Pain of Our Choosing. My Name in Your Mouth. Bloom. collarbones like a bow, skin an arrow to the heart. I'll stop there!

Okay, this was fun! I'll tag @corvuscrowned @ruinsplume @floydig @sweet-s0rr0w @lettersbyelise @magpiefngrl @skeptiquewrites and Elr! <3

#20 questions for fic writers #tag game #my writing

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creativekreatureart · 16 days

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View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Hazel (@creativekreatureart)

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Just finished the Captive Prince Trilogy by C.S Pacat. Loved the series so much that I decided to make a fan art of the Co-protagonists Prince Damen and Prince Laurent. If you like lgbt stories about kings and successions, this one is a must read.

#captive prince #laurent of vere #damen x laurent #digital art #fandom #artwork #fanart #damen of akielos #lamen #boy love #damianos of akielos #captive prince fanart #Instagram

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philaet0s · 3 months

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Six Sentence Sunday

I should just stop using the 'Six Sentence Sunday' title. It's never six sentences (I won't)

I worked on three projects this week, so here are three extracts!

Carry On - Fem!Snowbaz, childhood friends

Simone

“If I was my uncle, I wouldn’t want to live in my hometown.”

Baz’s words make me frown. “Why?”

“Because you can go anywhere else. Why stay where you grew up?”

“Because your whole life is there?”

“And the whole world is out there!” she exclaims, waving theatrically. “It’d be a shame not to explore it.”

“I agree with Baz,” Penny says. “I can’t wait to go to university to live in a different city.”

“Wait, you guys really want to leave?” I ask, uneasy.

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

Carry On - Natasha/Malcolm

Natasha

“I do not want him to be an option. I do not want to think… that it is possible. That I might be able to be in a relationship with him.”

“You are so strange. It would be good for you and for your image for you to be in a relationship.”

“I know… But I’m scared. I want to have him, but I don’t want the press to have him, you know? I want to protect him from that, at the very least so our relationship can develop without that pressure, but what is the point in a relationship if all we do is hide? And everything that has happened with you only proves that the press will blow things out of proportion,” I say, gesturing at him.

Under the table, my leg is bouncing. I hate it. This isn’t me. (Another reason why Malcolm Grimm scares me. He’s a disturbance.)

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

Captive Prince - post canon Lamen

Laurent unceremoniously wiped his hand on Damen’s chiton. Damen’s mind was too fogged with lust for him to care in the slightest. Laurent could very well have wiped his hand on his face and he would not have cared. They had not been close like this since before everything fell apart. Since Vere.

“I am sure to never listen to your advice again if this is what I get for doing it,” Damen whispered, the content smile on his lips changing the sound of the words.

“Maybe next time I will use something else on your cock,” Laurent answered, in that too-sweet voice that Damen knew meant danger. For Laurent’s enemies, anyway.

He looked at him teasingly. “Your mouth?”

“I was rather thinking of a knife. But if you wish for my mouth, I suppose my teeth will do.”

Laughter exploded from deep within Damen’s belly. In his amusement, he pulled Laurent down into a hug, holding him tightly.

#six sentence sunday #wip #fic wip #co/ws/awtwb #captive prince #snowbaz #lamen #simon snow #baz pitch #damen of akielos #laurent of vere

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mediawhorefics · 6 months

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hi, i saw you recommended some lgbtq books a while ago but it's impossible to find anything from tumblr later on, so do you know any good fantasy/sci-fi/action/contemporary m/m books? like with actual plot instead of just romance and also with characters and (platonic) relationships other than the main couple. thanks!

hiiiii, sorry this is super late, but of course i can!

(apologies in advance cos some of these are prob books i’ve recced before 🤪✌🏻)

-> captive prince trilogy (cs pacat) | if you’re looking for something with actual plot, cp has a big political overarching plot that’s super compelling about the two princes of neighbouring enemy kingdoms trying to reclaim their respective thrones. there’s lots of triggering content so do look it up before… but while the romance is the main event, the political aspect of the book is really detailed and engaging.

-> dark rise trilogy (cs pacat) | 2 out of 3 books are out currently and the m/m romance is not the focus so far though it’s been well teased/a good slow start. the whole trilogy is a subversion of the classic medieval chosen one trope ft. an old world of magic being reawakened, a dark king’s return and an order of knights trying to prevent it. great found family vibes. ya historical fantasy.

-> hither page (cat sebastian) | a jaded spy and a shell-shocked country doctor team up to solve a murder in postwar england. historical murder mystery!

-> big bad wolf series (charlie adhara) | an ex fbi agent gets transferred to a secret agency dealing with werewolf crimes after being attacked by one of them. human and werewolf relations are tense and he ends up paired with a wolf agent from the wolf agency that echoes his to solve a series of brutal crimes. ok, i know this sounds like straight up werewolf porn, but i was really surprised by how engaging and well written the mysteries were in this series. i’m talking twists and shit, compelling/complex side characters…. this series completely took me by surprise.

-> seven summer nights (harper fox) | post war england, a shell-shocked archaeologist and a vicar fall in love while trying to uncover a small town’s archaeological mystery in the south downs.

-> the last binding series (freya markse) | edwardian magical mystery series, each book focuses on a different queer couple while following an overarching mystery/plot that threatens the welfare of magical britain. big found family vibes, lots of great side characters introduced in each book that then become leads in later books, beautiful writing.

-> a taste of gold and iron (alexandra rowland) | ottoman empire inspired fantasy world, a prince and his bodyguard must investigate a break in at one of their guilds, the results of which could save their queen’s reign.

-> the will darling adventures (kj charles) | 1920s mystery adventure series. great side characters, insp by 20s pulp novels. a wwi vet turned bookseller get swiped up in mystery and a spy he’s not sure he can trust. first one is a bit slower, but it picks up in book 2 & 3.

-> the kingdoms (natasha pulley) | 19th century alternate history mystery. an amnesiac journeys from london to a scottish lighthouse to try and unlock the mystery of his forgotten past. complex narrative and extremely immersive storytelling. the romance is central but subtle.

-> the binding (bridget collins) | 19th century historical fantasy. emmet is training to be a bookbinder in a world where books contain people’s memories and are highly controversial… eternal sunshine of the spotless mind vibes.

-> less (andrew sean greer) | arthur less is going on a worldwide literary tour to avoid going to his ex’s wedding. this book really took me by surprise, it was so delightful.

-> the house in the cerulean sea (tj klune) | linus baker, a case worker for the department in charge of magical youth, gets sent to an orphanage for so labelled 'dangerous' children in order to evaluate whether they're about/able to end the world and if the orphanage/the man in charge of it is best for them. big feel good book, really funny, great found family vibes, subtle love story, wonderful side characters.

-> the bedlam stacks (natasha pulley) | merrick tremayne is called upon by the india office to go on a dangerous expedition deep in peru to fetch quinine (essential for the treatment of malaria) despite the debilitating injury that almost cost him a leg. every expedition before his has yielded no results apart from dead bodies, but merrick has family history deep in the country so he goes against his better judgement. there, he meets raphael, a priest surrounded by strange stories of disappearances, cursed woods and living stones, and who might hold the key to his family’s past. really cool world building, really immersive writing, very subtle romance. more plot heavy than romance heavy, but it's still !!!!

-> salt magic, skin magic (lee welch) | lord thorny is cursed and can't leave his father's estate. trapped there for over a year now, he is slowly losing his mind. until industrial magical john blake arrives on the land to investigate an unrelated case involving witchcraft. soon enough the men get closer and must work together to figure out a way to break thorny's curse. historical fantasy, good mystery, fun twists. i haven't read this one in a while, but i remember really enjoying the mythology.

-> the watchmaker of filiigree street & sequel (natasha pulley) | telegraphist thaniel receives a mysterious watch on his birthday whose pre-set alarm saves him from a terrorist bombing on scotland yard. since the bomb was made with clockwork parts and only the bomber could have known when to set the alarm, thaniel is sent by a detective investigating the bombing to live with the suspected watchmaker to figure out what’s going on. sherlock holmes vibes. slow burn/subtle romance. delightful writing.

-> under the whispering door (tj klune) | an unpleasant and selfish man in life, wallace price meets his reaper at his near-empty funeral and gets taken to a whimsical tea shop where he meets hugo, the ferryman whose job it is to help him move on and crossover into the afterlife. a task that becomes complicated as wallace starts developing feelings for hugo. found family vibes.

#about me #books #book rec

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best-nun-tournament · 5 months

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Round 1, Match 20

King Richard and Prince John (Robin Hood/English history) vs Cleopatra VII and Ptolemy XIII (Egyptian history)

Propaganda and history lesson under break.

King Richard and Prince John

Richard goes off to fight in the Crusades and John plots behind his back to steal and exploit the kingdom!

Poll Runner's Note: That's the Robin Hood legend, and there is some truth to it: While Richard was off on the crusade, John locked up Richard's chancellor Bishop Longchamp, set up his own royal court, and declared himself Richard's heir, over Richard's choice of their nephew Arthur (age 4). He even tried to have Richard declared legally dead so he could claim the throne (he had in fact been taken captive by the Duke of Austria and was then held for ransom by the Holy Roman Emperor). John left his wife to marry the King of France's sister so he'd support his claim, and basically started a civil war which lasted until Richard finally returned home. And that meant paying 100,000 pounds of silver in ransom. Everyone had to pay 25% of their property, on top of additional taxes.

Richard "forgave" John, in that he didn't have him killed and just confiscated most of his land, but he still officially declared his "hate and malevolence" towards John for over a year.

After Richard died five years later, John introduced yet more taxes, including England's first income tax. Why? To pay for a war with France to get back all the land that was lost when John asked the King of France to help him defeat Richard's supporters. A problem he himself caused by fighting with his brother!

Cleopatra VII and Ptolemy XIII

You know

Poll Runner's Note: I sure do, and now I'm going to tell everyone about it! Ptolemy XII, their father, had five children: Berenice, Cleopatra, Arsinoë, Ptolemy XIII, and Ptolemy XIV. Berenice had usurped Ptolemy XII's rule and was executed when he regained power, making Cleopatra his eldest living child. In his will, he declared that when he died Cleopatra and Ptolemy XIII should get married and reign as co-rulers of Egypt.

Ptolemy XII died when Cleopatra was about 18 and Ptolemy XIII was 11, and right from the start she was not interested in this co-ruler business. She started leaving his name off documents, leaving his face off the coins, and generally acting like she's the only ruler in Egypt. Unfortunately for her, Ptolemy's guardians weren't keen on being demoted from "power behind the throne" to "glorified babysitter", and they deposed Cleopatra and forced her to flee to Syria, where she raised an army and started a war against her brother. It didn't go well for her, and things were looking bad for her until Julius Caesar showed up with his army.

Caesar was 1) Already mad at Ptolemy's advisors for killing Pompey who he'd wanted to spare and 2) famously a huge slut so Cleopatra was pretty easily able to convince him to restore her to power.

It's at this point Arsinoë shows up with her army. She joins forces with Ptolemy XIII, declares herself Queen Arsinoë IV, and beseiges Cleopatra and Caesar in the palace complex. For five brutal months, they battled through the city. The fires are said to be how the Library of Alexandria was lost, which is probably a legend but it was still devastating. Ceasar himself almost drowned while fleeing Arsinoë's forces at the Battle of Pharos Island.

Finally Caesar's allies show up with their armies, and Ptolemy drowned trying to flee across the Nile while Arsinoë was taken prisoner. She was brought back to Rome as part of Caesar's triumph, but her life was spared and she lived out the rest of her days at the Temple of Artemis in Ephesus. This was about five years because Cleopatra later persuaded Mark Antony to have her murdered right there in the temple.

Cleopatra married her youngest brother Ptolemy XIV, before finally poisoning him so she could make her son Caesarion the new Pharaoh.

Cleopatra was at least partially responsible for the deaths of all her siblings except the one her father killed, and the struggles between them were devastating for Egypt and caused a lot of suffering. These are some legitimately awful siblings.

#worst siblings tournament #round 1 #poll #english history #egyptian history #King Richard I #Richard Lionheart #King John #John Lackland #Cleopatra #ptolemaic egypt #Arsinoe #poll tournament

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kookaburra-laugh · 2 years

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I read that in 2022 - GO Edition

hi friends, i come with a list of fic recommendations on this first day of 2023! for me, 2022 brought new friends and new fandom and im eager to share what i’ve read and loved with you all

not all of these were written in 2022, but that’s when i read them

Accept a Little Spin by nieded @nieded

rated E | 100k+ words (ongoing)

It's the 2023 season, and sophomore driver, Ezira Phale, is out to prove he's worthy of his seat at McLaren F1 as the world tests the boundaries of his confidence and his relationship with IndyCar driver, AJ Crowley.

Part 2 of Rainbow Road 🏁🌈

Waking Up Slow by the_moonmoth @themoonmothwrites

rate E | 88k words

After both being exposed to coronavirus, total strangers Crowley and Aziraphale are forced to wait out their isolation together. A tale of soft winter romance by the sea.

close quarters pining, slow and hot and full of feelings

stalwart sun, wily moon by dustnhalos @dustandhalos

rated M | 370k words

Anthony J. Crowley is a world-class art thief with a complicated past who, until now, had been pretty content with going through life as part of a prolific black market art trafficking ring.

That is, until a simple logistical hiccup leads him straight into the path of one Aziraphale Fell, former Head Conservator of the British Museum turned antique repair shop owner.

Little do they both know, the strands of friendship, morality, and deception in their shared circles of the London art world are interwoven in even more complex ways than either of them could have expected...

such rebel blood by curtaincall @fremulon

rated T | 60k words

Anthony Crowley needs a break. Six months after being tried for murder, he’s struggling to find a new publisher for his mystery novels—and to conquer his (apparently unrequited) feelings for Lord Aziraphale Eastgate, the man who saved his life.

Spending a few weeks out in the country working on a murder-mystery game for a rich young American’s twenty-first birthday party seems like an easy choice. But when the simulated death becomes all too real, Crowley finds himself caught up in the investigation—and crossing paths once more with someone he feared he’d never see again...

Part 2 of A Love Story with Detective Interruptions

No Room at the Inn by summerofspock @summerofspock

rated T | 735 words

A tipsy makeout scene for the prompt Bed Sharing.

tender and mild on main

Anatomy 101 by Fyre @amuseoffyre

rated E | 102k words

Two humans are enjoying some alone time. A demon has questions. An angel has answers.

an owners manual of sorts that developed feelings along the way

Mark of the Serpent by NaroMoreau, summerofspock @naromoreau @summerofspock

rated E | 150k words

A Captive Prince AU with an omegaverse twist.

Unusual Occurrences at A.Z. Fell and Co.'s by WritesEveryBlueMoon @gwenstacyismyicon

rated T | 1500 words

When the bizzare and amusing habits of Mr A.Z. Fell, bookseller, begin to trend on the internet, those who dwell on various social media sites share their frustrations, confusion, and extraordinarily unusual stories.

An Oddly Mesmerizing Display by ZehWulf @zehwulf

rated E | 29k words

Crowley's a sex-indifferent/favorable asexual omega fresh off suppressants and in the market for someone to help him through what promises to be a trial of a heat. His friend gets him tickets to the Spring Fling Heat Date Auction, where he can win a date with an eligible alpha (or omega). Naturally, a certain alpha with a regrettably memorable stage magic show and intriguing scent catches his eye...

On The Habits Of Vampires And Retired Goths by munchmulch @munchmulch

rated T | 21k words

The thing is about Crowley's new neighbor, the thing is that Crowley is very, very gay.

the best kind of miscommunication. crowley has vampire traits and aziraphale makes some connections. aziraphale has wolfish traits but crowley is blinded by love and willfully ignores them

A Guide to Fame for the Enterprising Demon by asideofourown @asideofourown

rated T | 8k words

[Crowley accidentally gets a bit famous, and the internet figures out he may be a bit immortal]

All The Dreams We Had by ImpishTubist @impishtubist

rated T | 6.5k words

This time will be different, Aziraphale thinks. This time, Crowley will remember.

crowley cant remember falliing in love, no matter how many times he does it

do you know what eternity is? by gazing @choreomanic

rated T | 16k words

I'll pretend to propose, Crowley said.

It'll be fine, Crowley said.

It was, Aziraphale decided, not fine.

tender and mild on main. incredibly soft and silly and cute. so many proposals

Till death do us part (or not) by fractalgeometry @geometricfractal

rated G | 2.5k words

Awkward Tesco reunions: the real curse of immortality

exactly as it says on the tin. hits all the best feels

All That’s Best of Dark and Bright by hope_in_the_dark @hope-inthedark

rated T | 5.5k words

When Crowley drops a bomb on a church, Aziraphale falls in love with him. This should be a secret, but unfortunately, Aziraphale's never been much good at keeping them.

a heartwrencher to be sure, but so sweet and gentle at the same time

Hanging By a Moment by NaroMoreau @naromoreau

rated E | 5.5k words

Sometimes the best thing is to leave. Fresh slate and all that. For Crowley, it seems like the only option, having fallen hopelessly in love with his best friend.

crowley convinces himself that this moment with aziraphale that he's always wanted doesnt mean the same thing to both of them. but he's leaving next week so he's going to make sure this experience will be one to remember

Echo by snae_b

rated E | 52k words

This isn’t your average coffee shop AU.

kinda sorta amnesia/time loop but so much deeper! bamf protective devoted crowley

Amazing by nightbloomingcereus @moondawntreader

rated E | 9k words

Aziraphale thinks he's been hired to perform his magic act at a party. It turns out that there's been a slight misunderstanding and everyone thinks he's there for an entirely different sort of show. Good thing the caterer is there to save the day.

Green Groves by NaroMoreau @naromoreau

rated E | 16.5k words

Aziraphale Fell isn't entirely happy living in his father's house. But when a new friend enters into his life, his whole world will change in an unexpected way.

Paper Thin Walls by angelsnuffbox @angelsnuffbox

rated E | 16.5k

Sure being in love with your best friend when he also happens to live in the flat next door, where you can hear every single one of his conquests through that shared wall, sounds challenging. But being in love with your best friend when he lives next door and you two used to shag? Might just be a tad more difficult, but Aziraphale muddles through somehow.

Be Ye Therefore Merciful by AmberDiceless

rated T | 9.5k words

Crowley does something utterly unexpected, and Aziraphale must face an opponent who cannot be thwarted. Hints of pre-A/C.

bookverse - crowley is injured by a blessed bullet in a warzone and aziraphale uses his full will (and rules lawyering) to keep him safe.

Any Way You Want It by Justkeeptrekkin @justkeeptrekkin

Saving the world is exhausting work. With Heaven and Hell off their backs, it seems as good a time as any for Crowley and Aziraphale to take a proper break. Neither one of them predicts the direction their holiday takes.

a scotland vacation, some realizations, and confessions to match. tender and mild on main.

Small Cock Appreciation Society by cheerios_and_wine @cheeriosandwine

rated E | 6.5k words

Crowley is the founding member. Aziraphale's is the member.

incredibly sweet and hot. crowley and aziraphale fit so well together

Lift Me Up, O Lord by CopperBeech @copperplatebeech

rated E | 37k words

Aziraphale Fell’s maintained a string of weightlifting victories, a strained relationship with his family, and his grandfather’s waistcoat right into his fifties.

Distance runner Anthony Crowley’s spent the last decade watching his racing career recede in the rearview, but it doesn’t stop him running, literally, away from his feelings.

lifter aziraphale, runner crowley, and a bicycle race

Boyfriend Debut by snae_b

rated E | 20k words

It’s fucking on camera. It’s not that complicated.

sex with feelings between porn stars who really hit it off

Pop the Question by tweedfeather @tweedfeather

rated T

Crowley plans to pop the question to Aziraphale at their favourite restaurant. Things don't go as planned.

A short, sweet, and silly fan-comic.

Where We Will Love by TawnyOwl95 @tawnyontumblr

rated E | 17.5k words

Crowley busks in Piccadilly Circus.

Just down the road in Haymarket, Azra Eastgate performs at Her Majesty’s Theatre.

One duet is going to change both their lives.

Trust Me, I'm A Professional by Lurlur @lurlur

rated E | 12k words

After a mishap with a client, Crowley finds himself booking in at his local emergency department. His bitchy angel of a nurse takes good care of him, making Crowley regret that he can't really just leave his number.

Perhaps the universe has other plans for his love life?

Many Ways To Say It by Fledglinger @fledglingdoodles

rated G

"Listen well, dear ones, for there are many ways to tell him 'I Love You'..."

an incredibly sweet comic

Steamed by summerofspock @summerofspock

When Aziraphale's favorite porn star walks into the coffee shop where he works, it completely derails Aziraphale's day.

What happens when the sexy guy you're used to watching fuck people on your computer screen is actually the most awkward man you've ever met?

Heavenly Hands by ZehWulf @zehwulf

rated E | 7.5k words

Even girlbosses need a bit of stress relief between gaslighting and gatekeeping, and Crowley is no exception. Good thing she has a standing appointment with an angel from Higher Calling Relaxation. (A porn trope parody fic.)

A Sharper Sweet by musegnome @musegnome

rated E | 5k words

Nothing smells quite the same any more. He bends over the plates anyway, and breathes in deep. Cinnamon and chocolate, fruit and sugar and butter. The scents would have set his mouth watering, before. He reaches out to touch the raspberry sauce drizzled over the cake, and stares at the drop of deep pink puree mounded on his fingertip.

crowley enjoys some sweets for his vampire partner and they both have a rather enjoyable time. a little angst at the start

Pavlov's Backroom by justheidi @scienceismygirlfriend

rated M | 444 words

"A word with you, angel. In private."

A conversation in the backroom of the bookshop.

Trying it On by snae_b

rated E | 6k words

Anthony Crowley. Stylist to an elite tier of the UK’s hottest stars. And now, apparently, to one dowdy, soft around the middle, recently divorced publishing heir.

Intermezzo by FeralTuxedo @feraltuxedo

rated E | 47k words

Music critic Aziraphale Fell is trying to break into the world of television, when he is signed to make a documentary about former-rockstar-turned-composer Anthony Crowley. It’s been eleven years since Aziraphale’s disastrous review of Crowley’s debut opera nipped his classical music career in the bud. He can only hope that Crowley will get over his admittedly justified grudge to make the TV show a success.

A classical music sex comedy. Yes, really.

Coq au Vin by Ginger_Cat @gingiekittycat

rated E | 13k words

Tonight’s the night. He can feel it in his bones, in his wings, in his demonic soul. It’s going to happen—months of showering the angel with flowers and chocolates and perfect picnic lunches and walks thorough the farmers’ market, romantic row-boat rides on the lake and concerts in the park and dinner at the Ritz and everything in-bloody-between, are all culminating in this one night.

Because Crowley is making Aziraphale dinner, and Crowley is going to kiss him.

When the Sun Goes Down by TawnyOwl95 @tawnyontumblr

rated E | 16k words

Mr Anthony J. Crawleigh, disgraced heir to the Helton Abbey Estate, has been summoned home to attend his sister's engagement party.

It's only four days of shooting, dancing and making nice with nobs. He's survived much, much worse.

If only Mama hadn't arranged for such a handsome young man to undress him every night. Practically asking for trouble, that is.

Everything I've Had by AppleSeeds

rated M | 13k words

After developing a chronic illness that leaves him unable to live alone, Crowley moves back home to London where he reunites with his childhood best friend Aziraphale. Aziraphale helps to take care of Crowley and keeps him company while he's in bed, bringing them closer together and reigniting old feelings.

for the first time by summerofspock @summerofspock

rated E | 3k words

It’s been six months since they’ve seen each other any way besides over FaceTime and Aziraphale is desperate for the sound of Crowley’s voice without the filter of the tinny speakers of his iPhone, for the smell of the crook of his neck, for the way his body fills the space beside him. He knows Crowley will be here soon and yet his heart hardly believes it is real.

Rivers Of Gold by entanglednow @entanglednow

rated E | 7k words

Crowley is commissioned to sculpt an angel for a family chapel, but the more he uncovers from the marble the less willing he is to give it up.

amaretto by goosewriting @goosetooths

rated E | 69k words

Aziraphale, a human, has grown used to being alone.

Everything changes for him when a unique occult relic falls into his hands and loops him into a contract with a mild-mannered (if a bit snarky) demon named Crowley.

#good omens #fic rec #give these authors some love #thanks for helping me through another year #looking forward to the madness that will be season 2 #happy new year

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