#like I enjoy when there is romance in my fantasy but it's not a requirement. there is a genre full of romance. it is called romance.

[utilitycaster]

Sort of a distant tangent off my post about Ashton, but I'm growing more and more suspicious of the fandom claim that there's no time for small RP moments in Campaign 3. I do think that it's been challenging to get deeper party bonding or serious conversations that aren't about the big philosophical questions they're facing, since those do take much more time; but then I think about Calamity, or Candela Obscura. I can genuinely give you at least a couple paragraphs about pretty much every relationship in the two Circles, or in the Ring of Brass. I can also point to no shortage of small moments between characters in the Mighty Nein Aeor or Vox Machina Vecna endgame episodes, which were all extremely plot-heavy and fast-paced, and D20 consistently nails character relationships in a fraction of the time.

I think it really does come down to, as Brennan Lee Mulligan always says, the character creation phase. Laying down a solid groundwork in which everyone has a detailed, rich backstory and sense of personality and relationship history (in the case of characters who knew each other prior to the start of the series) is absolutely crucial, and even in the case of characters who don't know each other before going in, a good amount of time spent in character creation ensures that it's easier for them to develop those interpersonal relationships on the fly. I know in actual play there's some degree of finding the character as you play, but there are games for which there is a very short runway, and I don't think it ever hurts to do more extensive character prep than the bare minimum. And if there are gaps, I think it also helps to go back and fill those in mid-way, away from the table - Travis clarifying Chetney's backstory being a great example that allowed the history of Chetney and Deanna to feel realized and full, despite only a few episodes.

I'll also be blunt: most of the time when people complain that there aren't moments because the plot keeps moving...they're mad about shipping. Which has always rung hollow to me. It was a common complaint in C2, that no time was taken for character relationships, despite them taking an entire half of an episode for the Beauyasha date and despite no shortage of moments for all three of the other couples (and plenty of platonic moments between friends). The issue was never a lack of time; it was that the characters they wanted to talk to each other didn't actually have the relationship in canon that the fans had dreamed up, and so, when the chips were down, they went to other people.

It takes two seconds to say something like "I hold their hand", even in the middle of plot-heavy adventuring. If someone doesn't say it, it's rarely the GM rushing them; it's the player either choosing not to do so, or not remembering to do so, and either of those is quite revealing regarding how the player feels about that relationship and where it stands in their priorities.

[kentopedia]

❝𝐖𝐄 𝐀𝐑𝐄 𝐀𝐋𝐋 𝐅𝐎𝐎𝐋𝐒 𝐈𝐍 𝐋𝐎𝐕𝐄❞ welcome to kentopedia's love through the ages collab. in honor of another lonely valentine’s day, i wanted to combine my two greatest loves: history and literature! so this is for anyone who wants a passionate romance and loves the aesthetics of the past. because i know that no matter when you live and die, your favs will always choose you ♡

STATUS: OPEN

♛ — TO JOIN

submit a piece based off a time in history you find interesting. it can be an au of your favorite classic novel, a song you enjoy from a period before your own, a piece of art you enjoy, or something entirely your own. be creative!!

please reblog this post & send me an ask with the character you'd like to write about and the inspiration. for example: "nanami + renaissance" (which is what i’ll be writing teehee).

♛ — REQUIREMENTS

no fandom limitation, but i will cap it off at 2 entries per character (i won’t count mine in that limit!). and you can join as many times as you want.

this is a historical au collab, so i will not accept any submissions based in the 21st century :) but it can go back as far as you want!

there is no deadline. minimum of 500 words, but no maximum. i love long fics! please use the read more feature on your posts.

♛ — OTHER

anyone can join, this is not limited to followers. no age requirement, but you must be 18+ to submit nsfw pieces, with an age indicator. make sure to follow the rules of all creators involved (including me!).

submissions can be as historically accurate or inaccurate as you want them to be, and could include fantasy elements too! this is all about capturing the aesthetics of a time period, but i will never limit anyone’s creativity. it can be extremely niche too!

all forms of art are welcome, not just writing, as long as they are of your own creation.

nsfw, sfw, dark content, etc. is all acceptable. be sure to tag accordingly!

♛ — TO SUBMIT

tag me in your submission so i can also add you to the masterlist. also, link this post on your submission to spread the love to other readers! i will be reading all the submissions and reblogging with feedback as well. let me know if you have any questions!

bungo stray dogs . . .

fyodor dostoevsky and hades & persephone by @lovedazai

nakahara chuuya and post wwii yakuza by @cheriiyaya

nakahara chuuya and the 1800s italian mafia by @osaemu

dazai osamu & fyodor dostoevsky as rival painters in the renaissance by @aureatchi

dazai osamu & fyodor dostoevsky in the trojan war by @fyorina

fyodor dostoevsky and victorian era royalty by @verlainepaul

dazai as a fallen angel by @chuuyrr

jujutsu kaisen . . .

nanami kento and the renaissance by @kentopedia

okkotsu yuta as an edo period samurai by @anqelically

gojo satoru & geto suguru and the medieval period by @flowerpersephone

geto suguru as a nineteenth century vampire by @todorokies

nanami kento and the victorian era by @starsinmylatte

gojo satoru and orpheus and eurydice by @forest-hashira

geto suguru and the american old west by @forest-hashira

geto suguru and phantom of the opera by @mynahx3

geto suguru and ancient greece by @mochimooon

nanami kento and the heian period by @purpleqilinwrites

fushiguro toji as a medieval bandit by @honeybleed

true form sukuna ryomen and ancient greece by @girlwithsharpt33th

okkotsu yuuta and post apocalyptic 1600s by @atsquie

nanami kento as a medieval knight by @mynahx3

nanami kento and the regency period by @kentopedia

nanami kento and ancient japan by @mynahx3

attack on titan . . .

reiner braun as a wwii soldier by @thel0v3hashira143

levi ackerman and the impressionist era by @be-co-me

armin arlert and the early 20th century by @crazychaoticizzy

eren jaeger and the age of piracy by @bloompompom

demon slayer . . .

shinazugawa sanemi and antony & cleopatra by @mitsuristoleme

tengen uzui and the roaring 20s by @forest-hashira

haikyuu . . .

kuroo tetsurō and the space race by @ktsumu

kuroo tetsurō & iwaizumi hajime in regency era inspired japan by @jarjarwinx

persona 5 . . .

akira kurusu and the prohibition era by @clubkira

genshin impact . . .

albedo as a renaissance by @clubkira

blue lock . . .

noel noa and indonesian colonization by

[teez-the-time]

Strawberries and Wine

Pairing: Consort! Seonghwa x Emperor! Fem! Reader

Genre: fantasy, romance, smut

Synopsis: as an Emperor, you liked to indulge in the pleasantries of life. The shiniest jewels, the best wines, the tastiest delicacies. But in the years of your reign, you had never found something as exquisite as the lips of Park Seonghwa.

Warnings: switch! lean dom! reader, switch! sub lean! Seonghwa, masturbation (f and m receiving), oral sex (f), breast play, piv sex, riding, dry humping, grinding, a lil food play, alcohol consumption (no drunk characters), pretty vanilla actually, body wordship, my characters are whipped as usual, pls tell me if I miss something

Wc: 9.1k

Taglist: none

A/N. What's this? Me actually posting a fic? Make a wish, people, cause a miracle has happened. Anyway, I humbly offer you this Hwa x reader fic, I hope you enjoy it. Please pretend that I actually know how to write smut and that I don't suck at it. Also, let's pretend this isn't totally inspired by the Webtoon, "Men of the Harem". Go read it if you haven't. Any like, comment, message, reblog, etc. is highly appreciated. My DMs are open as always. See you later!

XOXO

-May

“I believe that was the last engagement for the day, Your Majesty,” your trustworthy secretary, Marquis Kim Hongjoong, announced.

You rolled back your neck, releasing little pops of accumulated stress from the long day. Your eyes almost cried in relief when you closed them for more than a couple of seconds, having been subjected to the harsh candlelight for hours. “That is good to hear. It’s already very late. You may be excused, Hongjoong, and thank you for today”.

Your secretary stood up beside your desk, slightly bowing his head as he held a thick stack of papers underneath his arm. “If my services aren’t required any longer, then I’ll be on my way, ma’am. Have a pleasant night, Your Majesty”.

For a couple of seconds, only Hongjoong’s steps could be heard in your office room. You were putting away letters, documents and your beloved stationary when a little note tucked away in one of your drawers reminded you of something.

Poor Hongjoong had a hand on the door knob when you called out for him. “Wait, Hongjoong!”

“Yes, ma’am?” he inquired after being stopped seconds away from freedom. He looked worried from your sudden abrasiveness.

“I had almost forgotten to ask,” you explained, “did you inform Lord Park Seonghwa of my visit tonight?”

Hongjoong wanted to sigh from relief, as well as laugh at the mention of your little appointment with the young noble, Lord Park Seonghwa. “Yes, Your Majesty. His Grace and his entourage were made aware of your intentions of passing by tonight”.

“Good, good.” You spaced out and forgot to add something else to that sentence, but was suddenly called back to Earth when you saw your poor Hongjoong still standing by the door like a dog waiting to get out. “Now you are truly dismissed. Sorry to keep you here”.

“No worries, ma’am,” he assured you, finally leaving you alone in your office. Just you and your thoughts of that commitment with none other than your adored Park Seonghwa. At last, something exciting in your day after many hours of meetings with your court, and mountains of papers with budgets, reports, complaints and many more.

God, you thought, it’s depressing to still be thinking about work. I guess it's inevitable if you want to run an empire.

You finished picking up after yourself and blew out what remained of the candles. They had just been replaced that day, but you would need to call for someone to put even more the next day. 

I guess I will have to set aside a budget for candles.

The halls of the palace were considerably more empty in the late hours of the night, but that didn’t stop you from running into several maids and guards on their nightly duties. They all bowed to you and waited until you were far enough to continue with their tasks. In those moments, you thought that, no matter how bothersome and grueling your responsibilities could get, at least you didn’t have to stand up for hours on end or wash silverware in the middle of the night.

Near your chambers appeared to be the busiest. You opened the door to find your maids awaiting to assist you in your nightly routine. They curtsied at your arrival, and hastily dragged you to your vanity to begin dressing you down.

“Look at these hours!” one exclaimed while removing the pins of your hair, “Your Majesty must be so tired after such a long day. Should we draw a bath with those special salts for you to relax, ma’am? Then we can serve you some lavender tea for sleep”.

“You are a dear to me,” you thanked her and the others, “I’ll gladly take the offer of the bath, but I’m afraid I won’t be staying the night here. I plan to visit Lord Park, so please draw me that bath and fetch my robe”.

They giggled. “As you wish, Your Majesty”.

The hands were the most delicate when removing your makeup, hair and clothes. They rubbed away the stress of work and replaced it with the most pleasant of oils and perfumes. Indeed, they were masters of the art of polishing the body and the soul. Before you realized, you were already dressed in your nightgown and the robe that you reserved for these occasions.

“Is there anything else we can help Your Majesty with?” another one asked.

“I’m afraid not. Thank you once again. Please retire to your chambers for some sleep. We will have to wake up very early tomorrow!”

“Yes, ma’am!”

They curtsied as they left, and you could hear some of their giddy laughter and hushed voices just before the door closed. They loved gossip, even if it was about the whereabouts of their emperor (which was no secret to anyone). You let them entertain themselves however they wanted, choosing to keep them content as they were the people that spend the most time with you.

You sat in your vanity once more to contemplate their work. There was no sign of fatigue or worry in the face that looked back at you from the mirror. Quite the contrary. You looked more refreshed and rested than you had in weeks, all thanks to the magical wonders of your maids.

There was nothing you could do better in your appearance, so you decided to leave before you could consider staying in your chambers. While that thought seemed pleasant, a more promising option awaited you at one of the wings of the palace.

The wing reserved for the royal consorts was exquisite and lavish. Several rooms expanded around, forming a circle with a marble fountain in the middle depicting two lovers embracing each other with the utmost intensity. A dome was constructed on top of it, so the lovers were perpetually bathed in sunshine or moonlight. The floors were carpeted with the finest rugs imported from exotic lands in faraway continents. No speck of dust could be found on any corner, and all vases were always kept full with your favourite flowers. All the artwork was seasonally changed and handpicked by the emperors themselves according to their consorts' tastes. After all, it was the emperors' duty to pamper them and keep them content.

Having prided enough in your work at the consort wing, you began walking through the left part of the circle. Despite being able to hold many guests, most of the chambers were empty. In your short reign as emperor, you had only taken four consorts, without planning to add more in the foreseeable future. As a female emperor, it wasn’t a good look for your legacy to be remembered for promiscuity rather than your political achievements. Also, you were quite content with whom you had chosen to be your lovers.

Normally, the consort wing was brewing with life, always full of servants and guards waiting on your partners. While it could be refreshing to breathe that atmosphere, it was undeniable that the emperor’s visit was a cause of drama in the palace. Everyone was always eager to learn who were you coming to see, what you talked about and what to expect, and no doubt the speculation resulted in scheming that you weren’t ready to discover just yet. That’s why you tried to keep your appearances late and spaced in between, just to keep gossip at bay.

And, maybe, add some excitement too.

Seonghwa’s room was the farthest away, much to your dislike. Nevertheless, the wait made your little escapade even more thrilling. You reached the door, softly knocking on the sturdy wood. A few seconds passed and no one answered it. You knocked again, and still no answer. By now, one of Seonghwa’s servants would have opened it to let you go in, but tonight didn’t seem to be the case. Starting to get worried, you grabbed the knob and tried to push it open by yourself. Surprisingly, it offered no resistance and you found yourself inside Seonghwa’s chambers. You were preparing to scold him for his imprudence of leaving a door unlocked at night when the most pleasant of smells inundated your nostrils.

At first, it was just the sweet aroma of vanilla and jasmine, but the more you breathed in, the richer the smell got. Soon enough, your mind was floating along with the scent, making you relax into the atmosphere. It reminded you of something hidden in the depths of the soul. Desire. It wasn’t strong nor overpowering, but it lingered there, just barely out of reach .

When you shook out the initial stupor of the aroma, you scanned the room looking for your companion for the night. Normally, he would be waiting for you in one of the exquisite sofas and chairs of the sitting area before the door, but tonight he wasn’t there either. 

Apparently, the young lord had made sure that your night was full of oddities.

After a few more seconds of appreciating the neatness and taste of Seonghwa’s bedchambers, your eyes fell into the sleeping area. The furniture around the bed was lit up with soft candles, and a few scenting oil containers laid open, explaining the delicious odor that greeted you. A bottle of wine and two glasses waited for you at the coffee table in front of the chaise lounge that sat in front of the bed. That was, certainly, a direct clue to move there.

As you got closer, you saw that the drapes of the bed were completely closed, but the light from the candles illuminated the silhouette of a man sitting inside. With big strides and a grin, you closed the distance even more.

“My, my, what do we have here?” you asked in a teasing tone, one hand laying on the back of the chaise lounge. You circled it and sat down on the plush cushions, crossing one leg over the other and leaning back into one arm. “Looks like someone is hiding from me. Where did my precious Seonghwa go?”.

A deep chuckle came from within the curtains. “Not very far, Your Majesty”.

“My, my, there he is!” you poured yourself a glass of wine from the bottle that awaited you on the coffee table before the chaise lounge. It was yours and Seonghwa’s favourite. “What an odd feeling to not have you welcome me into your chambers. Playing hard to get, aren’t we?”

His rich laugh resonated once again in the room and you could see he shifted his position a little from the candlelight. “Your Majesty should know by now that familiarity breeds contempt”.

“That is very true, darling,” you sipped the wine, “but I will admit that seeing you that eager has always been my favourite part of the day. Perhaps you are right and I’ve spoiled my puppy too much, so now he is bored of me. I guess I’ll have to go to one of the other consorts…”

Slight panic rose to Seonghwa’s voice, but he managed to save face in time. “Quite on the contrary. I thought that Your Majesty might start getting bored of our encounters, so I thought a little change was due”.

Your heart fluttered at Seonghwa’s thoughtfulness, but you weren’t done playing with him. “What a kind puppy I have got here. Thank you for thinking about me, but remember I’m the one who makes the decisions here”.

“Yes, ma’am,” he said, but you heard a little mischief there.

Still, you decided to let it slide once. “Either way, I’m feeling extra generous tonight, so I’ll follow your little plan for a while. So, tell me, where do we go from here, my darling?”.

Seonghwa shifted once more in his bed. His shadows danced across the fabric of the drapes. 

“Well,” he started, “I believe that Your Majesty has already made herself comfortable on my chair, but I’m afraid that none of what I intend on doing tonight makes use of it. So, why don’t you come closer, ma’am?”.

Now, you thought, he is using that charm of his. A little bit longer and I would’ve gone to get him myself.

You stood from your resting position, not leaving behind your glass. Not long after, you stood at the foot of the bed, one hand gripping the opening of the lace drapes, eagerly waiting to reveal your lover’s form.

The sight in front of you left you drunker than the wine on your lips could ever. 

In the many years that he had resided in your palace, you had commissioned dozens of artists to portray the beauty of the young lord, Park Seonghwa. But, even after having a room full of just paintings of him in every position imaginable, you still had yet to acquire any piece of art that could rival the one sitting before your very eyes.

Seonghwa sat between the plush pillows and cushions at the head of the bed. His posture was relaxed, with his legs slightly crossed and one arm supporting most of his upper torso. His robe was barely tied, leaving almost the entirety of his torso exposed. Not that it would have been of much help, given the scandalous sheerness of the garment, which left little to the imagination. His neck, ears and fingers were littered with the golden shine of the jewelry you had especially commissioned to compliment his tan complexion. Your eyes found purchase of every inch of his small waist and defined limbs. He was carefully sculpted by the gods, even if he politely declined any comment made towards his appearance.

One trait you loved about Seonghwa was his eyes. They never lied. You could tell what he was feeling from a simple stare. Right now, many things flashed through them

Desire. Lust. Adoration.

You stood there without moving except to sip on your wine once again. As you stared at him, you noticed that one of his hands laid inside a crystal bowl. Never removing his eyes from yours, he raised it to his plump lips and opened his mouth. His tongue darted out to receive whatever it was that his hand carried and, for a moment, you saw a glint. He let you see the ruby-like gem before he closed his mouth and bit down on it slowly. A slight smirk adorned his face.

He knew you. He knew you liked jewelry. And him.

“Oh?” you exclaimed while looking at the bowl once again, seeing it full with more of the gems, “Is that candy?”

His smile grew wider. “Yes, Your Majesty. The finest of your empire.”

“I see, very interesting. Will you tell me which flavor is it?”

He grabbed one more piece of candy and showed it to you. The light from the candles bounced off it, making it look like a real ruby. “That, ma’am, is something you will have to find out”.

You arched your eyebrow at him in a questioning manner. “Is the puppy going to keep me guessing? Well then, bring it here so I can taste it myself”.

With your command, Seonghwa got on his knees and crawled over the bed towards you, bringing one of the damned candies with him. The closer he got, the more breathtaking he looked. Part of you wanted to order him to stop with his act, but the other part loved seeing his sensual side on display for you. Also, deep inside, you were too soft to ruin his fun.

His head towered slightly over yours. From that distance, you could see every detail of his face, including the nonexistent imperfections. Without a word, your hand scanned his jaw, chin and neck until you felt the cold of one of his gold chains, leaving it there. With your other hand, you grabbed the candy gem and brought it closer to both of your heads. You twirled it twice on your fingers before putting it against Seonghwa’s lips. Not wasting a second, he opened his mouth and let the candy fall on it like it had done earlier. Before closing it again, he playfully licked the tip of your index finger. 

What a naughty puppy.

You grabbed his chin and put your face even closer to his. “You are playing a dangerous game, my darling”.

He had barely swallowed the candy when you closed the space between you with a kiss. Immediately, Seonghwa reciprocated, closing his eyes and grabbing you by your waist and shoulder.

Strawberry. He tasted like strawberries.

You took advantage of the kiss to let your hands explore even more of the body you saw earlier. His skin was as soft and warm as always, but you never got tired of how it felt against yours. Your fingers slid inside his robe and slowly dragged it down his shoulders, leaving even more skin exposed. You wanted all of it. All of him.

You separated from the kiss to get some air, but apparently it wasn’t enough for Seonghwa. He latched himself on the juncture of your neck and jaw, peppering open-mouthed kisses on every inch of your skin that you could find. You let out a content sigh, and weaved your fingers through his hair, knowing he loved when you did that. His hands held you firmly by your waist, pulling you flush against himself. Bit by bit, his kisses went lower until he reached the neck of your nightgown.

Through the years, you had learnt that Seonghwa was addicting. There was never “just a bit” with him. It was all or nothing. And that’s what you intended tonight. Take all of him.

In more than one way.

“As much as I would love to stay like this all night long,” you said while pushing Seonghwa slightly off of your chest, “I’m afraid my legs will give out at some point. Perhaps we should take this further into the bed”.

Seonghwa said nothing. Still, he got up from his kneeling position and down the bed, grabbed your hand and walked around the furniture and sat on the edge of it near the pillows. While smiling, he placed your hands back on his shoulders and pulled you between his legs. He looked at you from beneath, expecting you to follow along with his plans for you.

“I’m also afraid of tiring Your Majesty’s legs before we have even begun,” he shooted you a smirk. “Why don’t you take a seat so I can take care of you, ma’am?”

He didn’t even wait for your answer before grabbing your behind and pulling you with force to himself. You let out a yelp and fell down on him. While he laughed at you, you tried to pull yourself up by pressing down on his shoulders and putting your legs on each side of his. In any other situation you would’ve also laughed with him, but you wanted to keep control for a little longer.

“What a naughty puppy,” you exclaimed, grabbing Seonghwa by his jaw to shut him up. “Good thing you that I love you a little too much. Otherwise I would have your head on a plate”. You didn’t really mean that, but you noticed that Seonghwa’s eyes lit up a bit when you said love. “You will pay me back another day”.

“It’ll be my pleasure,” he replied, “but let me enjoy myself a little longer”.

He captured your lips once more. Somewhere in your conversation he had gained a confidence you had only witnessed a handful of times. He didn’t hesitate to remove your robe from your body, letting it fall to the floor without a care. He didn’t hesitate while pulling you to sit entirely on his lap, making you feel everything underneath. He didn’t hesitate while looking at you in a way no one dared to before.

The adoration you had towards this man felt way too much for a moment, and you got scared. So, you decided to avoid your feelings for a little longer by kissing him again, praying that he wouldn’t notice how different you were acting tonight. And if he did, he didn’t show.

At one point, during your touching, Seonghwa had lost that goddamned robe, leaving the both of you in nothing but your underwear. You could feel the heat radiating from each other, almost too hot to the touch but not enough to make you pull away. As much as you could spend eternity just kissing Seonghwa’s strawberry lips, you were starting to feel impatient and the man could tell.

It started slow, barely enough for you to feel at first. He had broken the kiss to leave more marks on your neck and naked chest. His hands gripped your hips, anchoring you to his crotch. The space between you was almost non-existent. Little by little, he started to move your hips along his, igniting sparks of pleasure throughout your body. In no time, he accompanied it with movements of his own pelvis, creating the perfect amount of friction to send you into overdrive.

One particularity of Seonghwa was his ability to make every movement enticing. After all, there was a time he was known as the best dancer and performer in your whole land, seeked and desired by hundreds, and it was that reputation that had drawn you towards him in the first place. Every move of his appeared calculated enough to look tempting yet effortless, and here you were paying the price of that talent by being subjected to one of the most sublime pleasures known to humankind.

At one point, Seonghwa had stilled your hips, opting for grinding his against them. This ensured that you could feel the entirety of his erection pressing against every part of your core, all the way from your entrance to your clit. After a while of receiving this tortuous treatment, you were climbing a peak you weren’t ready yet to reach.

You stilled his movements by pressing your hand against his hard on, which earned you a whine from Seonghwa. You almost went back into a desperate grinding after hearing that delicious noise, but you held back. “I’m afraid that if we continue with this much longer, both you and I won’t last enough to get to whatever you wish to do”.

“You don’t have to worry about me, ma’am” he teased you with a cheeky grin. “I can continue all night long, Your Majesty”.

You grabbed him by the back of his head once again and got your faces close. “Y/N”. He blinked a couple times in confusion, so you repeated yourself once again. “Y/N. It’s Y/N when I’m with you”.

Now it was Seonghwa’s turn to pray that you didn’t notice how fast his heart was beating from your statement. One would think that he had loved you enough time for your name to roll easily from his lips, but it wasn’t the case at all. It was impossible when some days, your sole presence was enough to make him nervous. It was impossible when sometimes he looked at the other consorts and it made his blood boil. It was impossible when he knew that using your name meant owning a part of you, something he would never be able to do given the nature of your relationship.

Nevertheless, he allowed the syllables to run through his tongue, even if they stinged. “Well then, I can continue all night long, Y/N”.

He didn’t give you time to reply, because in one moment he was leaving a peck on your lips, and on the other you were swiftly being turned around and laid against the pillows of the bed. You gasped in surprise at the same time that Seonghwa let out the most beautiful laugh you had ever heard.

And what would you not do to hear it again.

“You little scoundrel!” you exclaimed. “You have absolutely no idea what you are getting yourself into. Next time you’ll see how well it goes for you!”

Seonghwa positioned himself on top of you, his chest almost pressed against yours. He shot you another mischievous grin. “I’ll be waiting eagerly, then”.

He left a kiss on the column of your throat, so soft it was barely there. Then he left another one a little lower. Then another. And another. And another, until he reached your sternum. Your eyes fluttered when he started moving upwards towards one of your breasts. He used one of his hands to trace mindless patterns across your stomach, hips and waist. The tender stimulation was starting to heighten the heat in your core, somewhat lost in the brief moments you had stopped rubbing on Seonghwa. Finally, it reached an all-time peak when his warm tongue enveloped your right nipple.

“Ah!” you let out with a moan. He continued his assault on your breast, sucking and licking on your sensitive mound. After some moments of this treatment, he brought the hand that had been on your hip and used it to massage the forgotten bud. Then, he switched sides, continuing his ministrations on both of your nipples. It felt good. So good that you started rubbing your thighs together, hoping to get some friction and relieve some of that growing heat.

Seonghwa took notice of your impatience and decided to act on it. He unlatched his mouth from your bud, replacing it with his other hand. Meanwhile, he left a trail of open-mouthed kisses along your stomach. You let out content sighs, using your own hands to rub soothing circles on Seonghwa’s defined back and shoulders. His mouth reached the hem of your panties, and you couldn’t help but hitch a breath in expectation. But that fucker had other plans for you.

He peppered even more kisses along the waistband of your underwear, even going as far as to nip it. But, when he got to where you needed him the most, he ignored the wet patch on your crotch, opting to lick your inner thighs. He left another wet trail on your legs up until your knees, bending them slightly to give him better access. Without missing a beat, he switched from one leg to the other, this time going upwards towards your centre. He rubbed your calves and knees tenderly, relieving the tension in them.

Seonghwa broke away from the task he had been focused on for the last minutes to look back at you, and spoke.

“You know,” he stated, “there was once a time where I could have been considered the most beautiful man of the kingdom”. You stared back at him, curious about what point he was trying to make. “It has been almost five years since then, and I’m sure age has changed that fact”.

You frowned at his words, and you were about to refute that claim when he spoke again. “I am certain that has been the case for me. But for you, Y/N, Your Majesty, it is completely the opposite. Every day that you come visit me, I am more certain that time has only made you even more beautiful”.

You were left speechless in awe, but Seonghwa did not seem to interpret it the same way. “I am most sorry if my words have been bold tonight, but the thought has been wandering on my mind for the entirety of this evening. Let me make it up to you, Y/N”.

With nothing else to add, he brought relief to the ache on your core that had been plaguing you from the moment you stepped on Seonghwa’s chambers. Slowly, he bit down on the waistband of your underwear and began to bring it down with his teeth enough to then remove them with his fingers. When he was sure there was not a single millimeter of fabric separating you from him, he dived head first into your folds, tasting you like you were a meal he had been depriving himself of for weeks.

The expertise of his tongue and the long wait had you moaning immediately. “Oh, fuck!” Your hands grabbed the back of his head and pushed him further into you.

Seonghwa never shied away from giving you the best pleasure he could offer. He continually switched from kitty licks on your clit to long swipes through your whole slit. He ate you out like a starved man, sucking on your nub with enough force to make you almost reach the ceiling of pleasure. Nevertheless, he didn’t want you arriving at your climax just yet. No, he had a lot more to give you. He separated himself from your core slightly, just enough to be able to watch you in all your glory. 

The sight of your eyes rolling back into your skull, head hanging weakly over the pillows and your mouth wide open almost made him cum on himself. You looked so fucked out, barely even registering what happened on your surrounds aside from the movement of his tongue and your hand on his hair. 

“Holy shit,” he exclaimed, “you are doing so well for me, Y/N. So, so good”.

You whined at his growl-like tone. “Hwa, I’m close. Don’t stop, please.”

Seonghwa moaned at your whining. It was rare to witness his emperor relinquishing so much of the control you normally had on every aspect of your life, even in bed. He was harder than he remembered ever feeling before, and it drove him crazy. He didn’t want to, he needed to make you cum. So, after looking at you one last time, he went back to his task, now inserting a finger into your hole.

You gasped at the sudden feeling of having his digit inside yourself. His fingers were long and slender, perfect for how you liked it. Little by little, Seonghwa started inserting more and more of it, feeling no resistance from your part. With the same slow pace, he began sliding out, only to go back inside. In no time, he had found a rhythm that matched his licks and slurps on your clit. 

This time, you could feel your climax start to unravel once Seonghwa hit the perfect spot. “Oh my god, I’m coming. Shit, shit, I’m coming!”.

The perfect combination of one of his licks with his fingering movements left your vision white. You felt the air being sucked from your lungs as a fiery heat traveled from all your extremities to your core. Your back arched beautifully, almost as if wanting to ascend to the upper plane of pleasure Seonghwa was sending you to. Your fingers clutched anything they could get a hold of; pillows, sheets, and Seonghwa’s dark locks of hair.

The high was dizzying and intoxicating.

Seonghwa continued to shyly lick your cunt while you came back from your orgasm. You felt sensitive to his touch, but your craving for him still wasn’t satisfied. You propped yourself on one elbow to look at him better, moving your other hand from his hair to his cheek. With soft touches, you removed his face from your core to stop him.

The sight before you was erotic in every sense of the word. The lower bottom of his face was drenched in your cum, his tongue darting out from his mouth to lick around it. His chest rose and fell with heavy breaths, making it seem like it was him who had received one of the most mind-blowing orgasms of his life. His eyes, still full of love and adoration for you, continued to pierce into yours, feeding into the fire that had slowly been growing since the start of the evening.

“My puppy has done such a good job tonight,” you praised him, running your fingers down his jaw to his neck and chest. In a soft gesture, you put your hand under his armpit, urging him to come up from his lying position to hover over you. With his hands on each side of your face, his legs tangled between yours, and your hands woven over the back of his head, you gazed back at him with a mischievous smile. “I believe a reward is in order”.

You closed the distance between your lips, pressing them into another feverish kiss. Seonghwa let out a content sigh into your mouth, melting until both of your figures became indistinguishable. You ran a hand over his broad back, lightly scratching your nails over his skin, leaving a trail of goosebumps on your journey. Then, you dipped it under his waist and over his abdominals, going lower and lower until your hand reached its final destination.

Seonghwa almost collapsed on top of you when he felt you touch his dick. He let out divine sounds when he felt you begin to stroke the base of his member under his underwear, your other hand removing the last piece of clothing for him. For a moment, he closed his eyes and concentrated on the way your hand moved downwards towards the tip, in a movement you had memorized from your countless nights spent with him. To have you touch the most intimate part of his body felt the biggest reward he could receive for his actions, but that wasn’t how he wanted things to go.

You were surprised when you felt his hand grab your wrist to halt your movements. “What is wrong?” you asked, worried about hurting him.

He looked down to where you connected with him and then back at you with his ever-present soft smile. “Nothing is wrong, but I don’t wish to make this night about me”.

You raised your eyebrow at him. “But you deserve it”.

He pecked your nose and gifted you with another smile. “Thank you, Y/N, save it for another time”.

Seonghwa removed your hand from his underwear and intertwined your fingers with his, resting both of your hands besides your head. He left small kisses on your lips, one after another, until you were giggling. The cold metal of his necklaces against your chest gave you small goosebumps, but you still pulled his face against yours, rubbing your noses together.

“I will, Hwa,” you promised him.

Seonghwa let out a chuckle of his own. You looked so cute at that moment. “Thank you, Y/N. Now, if you let me, there’s still one thing on my list for tonight”.

In one swift moment, he sat back on the bed, similar to the position you found him earlier in the night, but this time with you sitting directly on his crotch once more. This time, there was nothing separating your cores. You could feel the entirety of Seonghwa’s length pressed against your slit, warm and slippery with your juices. A small movement of your hips and you would have the head of his cock pressed against your entrance.

Apparently, that same thought crossed Seonghwa. He grabbed your waist to lift you slightly up, leaving you on your knees over him. With one hand he positioned you where he needed you, and with the other he grabbed his cock, stroking himself while aligning it with your entrance. He looked up at you, eyes round and soft.

“May I?” he asked, not needing to say further.

You nodded, and he began your descend towards the climax of tonight’s act.

The first wave came with the first inch. There was always a sense of euphoria when you felt the tip of his length breach your inner walls, slowly dragging upwards to give way to more of it. Your body always responds with a gasp at this initial moment. The second wave is less intense but more prolonged. As he entered deeper and deeper, Seonghwa started losing control of himself. At this stage, he would start touching and grabbing every part of your body he could reach. Hips, thighs, breasts and ass would be covered in small marks the next day from his mindless touch. The last wave was the one that left the both of you with the biggest satisfaction. It was the bliss of being connected in one of the most intimate ways two people could.

“Oh, fuck!” Seonghwa let out, throwing his head back. No matter how many times he had done this, it still felt delicious.

You were also a mess above him. Your back was arched towards him, eyes pressed shut to savour the drag of his dick inside of you, and mouth wide open. Seonghwa felt like cumming from that sight alone. He wanted to devour you whole; crawl beneath your skin and live inside your heart forever.

If only he knew.

Regaining a bit of your senses, you started moving your hips slowly. Up and down, front to back, side to side. You began to find the rhythm that drove the both of you crazy. Wanton moans escaped from your lips as you felt Seonghwa in the deepest parts of your body. You grabbed his shoulders to support yourself better, and his hands found nest on the curve of your hips. In no time, you had picked up the speed, feeling him go in and out harder.

“God, you feel so good,” you moaned. “You are always so good for me. So, so good”.

The praise seemed to get into Seonghwa’s head (and cock). He whined beautifully, his eyes rolling back into his skull. He bit his lower lip to contain the sounds escaping from his throat. You didn’t like that.

You freed his lip with your thumb, once again getting closer to his face. “Don’t you ever try to hold back with me. I want to hear you”.

That set Seonghwa on fire. He planted his feet on the bed, grabbing you firmly by the waist, and started thrusting up into you with force. For a moment, all breath escaped from your lungs, being replaced by the smell of sex and lust. A whiny scream left your lips without meaning to, followed by broken moans and gasps. You hugged your lover by the shoulders in an attempt to keep yourself from falling too hard too fast on the abyss.

Seonghwa’s plump lips now rested against your ear, gifting you with his unrestrained groans and grunts of pleasure. You clenched around his cock deliciously, fitting him like a glove. It felt like a new heaven was opened to him every time he entered you, and your hands roaming across his back and chest felt akin to feather touches of an angel. If he closed his eyes a little longer, then he would be gone for good.

“Y/N, Y/N,” he repeated like a mantra, “I’m so close! God, I can’t wait to come inside of you. I’m going to make you mine”.

Seonghwa was a goner when he felt you clench even harder around him, but he needed you to cum first. It was a rule in his world, a commandment of his, to always satisfy your needs before his, even if it meant never getting back what he had offered you. So, feeling his impending climax approaching, he slid his fingers between your bodies to where your clit rested. His other hand slithered up to your breast, and played with your sensitive peaks. 

That was your breaking point. The stimulation of all those points elevated you to your highest peak of the night. Your body shook with electricity that spread through your spine down to every nerve. You back arched against Seonghwa’s chest, pushing your face away from him. Your toes curled and your legs tensed, your inner thighs wet from the mess of cum and saliva.

You were a sight to behold.

Not long after, Seonghwa came. With sloppy thrusts into your core, he tried to prolong his and your orgasms. Overstimulation was becoming overwhelming, but something carnal and animalistic inside of him pushed him to go further. To claim every inch of your body and soul. Make you his in every way imaginable.

He didn’t stop until he felt like he had pushed the last bits of cum into your pussy. He felt the mess you both had created slip between your bodies, letting out a slight smirk at the thought of your cum and his mixing together.

It was him who had you in his bed tonight. Him who had given you the highest form of pleasure. Him who held you as you recovered from having sex with him.

But still, you weren’t his.

Despite Seonghwa facing inner turmoil at the moment, you felt very content at his side. Still feeling him inside, you were full of him, not just in the physical sense. The weight of your actions with him left your heart soaring higher than the sky, almost at peace. There was just a single detail missing in your equation.

With him standing by your side, there was nothing else you needed.

↠↠↠↞↞↞

The moonlight shone through the open balcony, drawing pale and shapeless silhouettes on the floor beneath your feet. You could hear the branches of the trees sway with the wind in the garden below. It was rare for you to have enough time to sit quietly to observe the mundane beauties of the world that surrounded you.

Except on those nights when you laid with Seonghwa.

After a brief clean-up session with him in his bathroom, you went back to his room. It was a comforting routine for both of you. Just being in each other’s company felt more intimate than any sexual activity you could engage in. You sat there in peace, no clothes needed to enjoy the pleasant company. It was symbolic of how you both bared yourselves naked in more than the literal way.

You sat on the edge of the bed, both feet planted on the floor. The long-forgotten wine returned to your hand, swirling slowly inside the glass, guided by the rhythmic movement of your body. Seonghwa laid on the bed behind you, sipping on his wine. You could feel his intense stare on your back, digging holes at it in silence.

Neither of you felt brave enough to break it.

At last, it was Seonghwa who dared to perturb the tranquility of the room.

“You have been behaving oddly tonight,” he declared, speaking into the rim of his glass.

You turned your neck around just enough to see him gulp down the rest of the beverage. For a couple of moments, the only sound in the room was that of liquid pouring before you answered.

“Am I the only one, though?” you questioned back, but not denying his claim.

“Certainly not,” he replied, seemingly submerged in his thoughts. His long fingers tapped against the stem of the glass before settling it down on the nightstand, “but it is unlike you to drain out your concerns in such ways”.

In five years, Seonghwa learnt to read you like a book. He picked on every cue and sign to assess your moods and act according to them. That way he had managed to completely obliterate the walls you had built around yourself, becoming your trusted confidant in record speed. He had not only looks but a bright mind.

But, still, even Seonghwa couldn’t escape the claws of the cold palace politics.

For that reason, you just offered a close-mouthed smile. “I know you have your people in my council, Seonghwa, so you should know what matter plagues me”.

Seonghwa ignored your cold countenance, choosing to gift you a warm smile. “Yes, I do know, but I'd rather hear it from you”.

You looked into his deep, dark eyes and you knew that if you could trust anyone, it would only be Park Seonghwa.

You exhaled some air and sipped on the glass. “The old foxes at the council have been reminding me that it has been five years since I took the throne, and there are no signs of an upcoming wedding, much less an heir. It makes them restless that there is no one they can trust to succeed me if something happens to me, so they have been pressuring me to pick someone at last”.

You turned around your torso to watch him more carefully. Seonghwa appeared as calm as ever, but the firm grip on the stem of the glass betrayed him

“So,” he asked nonchalantly, “will you do it?”

You left your wine on one of the nightstands and slid up further into the bed to sit beside Seonghwa. He looked at you with extreme curiosity while you settled at his side. While it wasn’t the first time you had touched the subject, it had never affected you like this before.

“Yes,” you said, simply.

For the nth time that night, Seonghwa prayed that you couldn’t hear his heart beating erratically inside his chest. That simple word had planted seeds of jealousy and hope, and he feared that more conversation would water them into a horrific ivy that would swallow his spirit whole. Tonight had not been a good night for his heart. Nevertheless, he made his best effort to appear calm amidst his internal storm.

“Oh?” he asked in an almost teasing tone. “Glad to see you finally settling down. Do you have someone in mind already, or should I suggest candidates?”

The green ivy grew bigger on his chest.

“Yes,” you answered, holding his intense gaze, “I have someone in mind already”.

“Oh?” Seonghwa repeated, but this time less sure of himself, “Is it a consort? Or will you bring someone from outside?”

“Oh god, no. In five years as Emperor, the amount of people I trust has reduced significantly. I could never bring myself to find someone outside this palace”.

Seonghwa bit his lip. “So it is a consort”.

You scooted even closer to him. “Yes, he is a consort”.

Seonghwa’s breath hitched. His head was spinning. One in four. He had one in four chances to be the one you picked.

Against his better judgment, he dared to prod the dragon’s belly. “Well then, who is him?”

You grinned at him, teasing him further. “Aren’t you awfully curious tonight?”

Trying to save face, Seonghwa answered. “Can you judge me? I am part of that pool, so I might as well ask before I hear the news from someone else”.

You didn’t reply. Instead, you scooted even closer to his frame, his arm instinctively wrapping around you and resting you on his shoulder. You inhaled his aroma from that distance and hid your face on his neck.

He smelt like home. And strawberries.

You leaned back to watch him, finding he was already looking back at you. Some of his hair fell on his eyes, covering part of his sculpted visage.

“Your hair is getting longer,” you commented, brushing the dark locks behind his ear.

“Should I cut it?” he asked.

You shook your head. “No, it looks beautiful on you”.

“Thank you,” he whispered.

For two entire breaths, you stood in silence. “Seonghwa”.

“Yes?”

You wetted your lips. “Seonghwa, for almost five years, you have lived here in the palace as my consort. You were the first one I brought in many years ago when I had recently taken the throne, and you are my closest confidant aside from Hongjoong”.

You felt him gulp nervously, but you continued. “In these years, you have proven yourself to be more than just a consort. You are indeed handsome, but also brilliant, charismatic, strong, brave, and kind. In many instances, you have been my biggest ally and supporter, as well as a voice of reason when circumstances appear grim. You have a talent few men can say they possess, and it gives me pride to have you on my side, whether as your Emperor, your friend, or your lover”.

Seonghwa felt his chest swell with pride and joy while hearing your words. It was a one-in-four chance, but he certainly felt like it had been him all this time.

But you weren’t finished. “You are a man of many talents, Park Seonghwa, and in these five years I have witnessed that potential grow beyond what this restrictive palace can offer.” Seonghwa tensed beside you. “This place is nothing more than a beautiful prison for minds like yours, whose limit cannot be determined. A breeding ground for the greed and ambitions of the worst of mankind”.

You went back to stroking Seonghwa’s head. “You are my most beautiful flower, Seonghwa. I have sinned by ripping off your roots and hiding you here. I have taken you away from everything you loved and knew: your home, your family, your dance… I have been a horrible woman by keeping you tied to me for five years of your precious youth”.

Seonghwa had started to shake and you felt drops falling on top of your head. You pushed yourself away from him, only to see him crying. Your heart shattered in the very instance when he pushed himself away from your embrace. He sat on the edge of the bed, hunched over his knees, hand covering his mouth.

“That’s a terrible way to announce it’s not me,” he stated, briefly uncovering his mouth, but never looking back at you.

You got up from your lying position. On your knees, you crawled behind him, looping your arms underneath his armpits. Without a second thought, Seonghwa rested his hands on yours on top of his chest.

Seonghwa had always been an easy crier.

You rested your forehead on his cervical. “I told you I am a horrible person. I am merciless to my enemies, and awful to my friends. More despicable is the fact that I don’t believe those words”. Seonghwa’s head shot up, listening to what you said. “You are my most beautiful flower, and I don’t plan on letting you go”.

You pressed yourself further into Seonghwa’s broad back. “In five long and short years, you have become indispensable to me. It is you who I come to when I am happy. It is you who I come to when I am in need of comfort. It is to you who I confess my fears and sins, and to whom I share the deepest parts of my soul. Your happiness has become my happiness, your grief my grief, and your pride my pride. You are my better half, and my equal in everything but in body”.

“So do forgive me for being a selfish Emperor and even a worse lover, but I will not release you from my grasp, even if it is against my better judgment. I will do anything and give you anything you desire if it means I will get to keep you by my side for the rest of our lives”.

Seonghwa swallowed once again. “Will you give me anything?”

You grabbed his left hand and brought it to your lips. “Yes, anything. Say the word and it shall be yours”.

“You. I want you. I want (L/N) (Y/N)”.

Your heart exploded in a million fireworks inside your chest. “Then, I shall be yours”.

Suddenly, Seonghwa turned back at you, tackling you into a hug. He hid his face in the crook of your neck, slightly shaking with short sobs. He was crying, but this time they were happy tears. Softly, you removed him from yourself with a smile.

“Lord Park Seonghwa,” you said while looking deep into his eyes, “will you do me the honor of becoming Imperial King and marry me?”.

“Yes, yes, yes!” he shouted. “A hundred times yes!”.

You laughed, and he started peppering kisses all over your face. You both went from hugging to kissing to laughing hysterically every couple of seconds. No joy in life could compare to the state of bliss you were in, knowing you belonged wholeheartedly to each other.

You had said it before. Tonight, you had intended to make Seonghwa yours in more than one way.

“But wait,” Seonghwa stopped the both of you abruptly, “isn’t this done through a formal ceremony?”

“I mean, yes,” you replied, “but I wanted to make sure it is what you wanted before officially proposing to you in front of everyone. I would have felt awful to put you on the spot like that if you didn’t want to actually marry me”.

“Are you kidding me? I’m so in love with you that I would have said yes no matter when and where you had asked me”.

“Good to know my fiancé is in love with me as much as I am in love with him”, you smirked and rubbed your noses together. “Either way, I will have to inform Lord Hongjoong of the changes in our situation. I bet he will be very surprised”.

(Spoiler alert, he was not).

You both laid on your backs, staring at the ceiling of Seonghwa’s room. Hands intertwined like vines. The night continued to be silent, uncaring of the two lovers who had decided to give themselves to each other without the knowledge of the rest of the world. The Earth didn’t stop spinning nor did the Moon stop her beaming, but now your whole galaxy shone with the glint of Park Seonghwa’s eyes.

“I never thought I would say this,” Seonghwa broke the last silence of the night, “but I thank those old geezers at the council for pushing you into my arms. From the moment that I met you, my heart, body, and soul have belonged to you and only you. From the moment I rise in the morning to the closing of my eyes at night, my every thought is dedicated to you. I will do everything in my power to be dutiful as your husband, and you shall never regret having me, my love”.

“There’s nothing in the world that will make me regret having you as my husband,” you kissed both of his hands. “As far as the members of the council, I bet they will be happy knowing that I’m marrying at last, especially if it’s with someone as brilliant as you”.

“We will be the most powerful sovereigns this nation has seen,” Seonghwa sealed his promise with a sweet kiss on your lips. “I’ll give you all of me if you need it”.

“Then it shall be that way,” you kissed him back.

With the threat of an early morning, you tucked yourselves into bed. Seonghwa attached himself to your back, tangling his arms and legs until you couldn’t tell where began who. He released his soft breaths into your ear, slowly lulling you to your rest. Just as you were about to fall asleep, he muttered to you.

“I bet the council will really be happy with our marriage,” you could hear the grin in his voice, “because, with me, you won’t be having any problem conceiving that heir… Your Majesty”.

It was safe to say, you didn’t wake up early that day.

[taytjiefourie]

How to Outline a Novel

Hi there, Darlings! I'm excited to dive into the fascinating world of outlining a novel with you today. Don't worry, we won't be here as long as you might think. So, let's get started and have some fun!

Note: this is a longish post and relies on my preferences and experience.

When it comes to outlining your story, you may hear some people insist that the more detail, the better. However, let's be real, we don't want to get bogged down with trivial details like how the trash is being disposed of in our fantasy world, right?

No way, we're all too busy to devote that much time and energy to it! Personally, I have two versions of an outline that I like to use. The first is a basic outline, which works well for stories set in a world similar to our own, or stories that draw from existing myths or legends like Supernatural, Paranormal or Greek Mythology.

The second outline is a bit more detailed, but don't worry, it's not as complicated as some people make it out to be. Since creating a unique Fantasy or Sci-Fi world requires a bit more thought, this outline helps you add in those extra details without overwhelming you. To use it, you'll start with the basic outline, and then add some additional information to create the more detailed version.

In this blog post, I'll be sharing some insights into why certain elements are essential in your outline (for those who love to write but don't know all the 'why's' when it comes to certain things), and how they can make a huge impact on both your writing process and the readers who pick up your book. And don't worry, I've got you covered at the end with a summarized version of each outline - minus all the extra details - so you can simply copy and paste it for your own use.

Without further ado, let's dive in and start with the basics of outlining your novel!

I hope you've got a tiny inkling of what your story might be about - whether it's a character with a vague purpose, an antagonist with an unclear hero, or even just a cool world with no plot in mind yet. Whatever it may be, it's totally okay to start with just a little dot of information. The important thing is that you've got something to work with!

Book Information.

Starting a novel can be a daunting task, but having the right information can make a world of difference. Let's go over the three key aspects you should consider before diving in: Genre, Trope, and Target Audience.

First up is Genre, which is the category or type of book your story fits into. Once you've picked your genre, you can explore the different tropes that are commonly used within it. A trope is a recurring literary device or theme that helps readers understand the story and its themes.

By combining your chosen genre and tropes, you can begin to define your Target Audience. This is the group of readers who are most likely to enjoy your story based on its genre and themes. It's important to remember that you don't have to stick to just one genre or trope, and that exploring multiple options can help you find the perfect combination for your story.

Genre:

Choosing the right genre for a book is super important because it gives readers a sense of what to expect in terms of plot, themes, tone, and style. Think of genres as categories that books fall into based on their subject matter, writing style, and intended audience. For instance, a mystery novel is all about solving a crime or puzzle, while a romance novel is all about lovey-dovey relationships.

Knowing a book's genre can be helpful for readers who are searching for stories that interest them. Plus, it can help publishers and booksellers market and sell books to the right audience. For writers, it's helpful to stick within the conventions of a genre while still adding their own unique perspective.

All in all, genres make life easier for everyone involved in the book world, from writers to readers to publishers. They help us understand the style and content of a book and make communication and engagement between authors and audiences so much smoother!

With so many genres to choose from, it can be overwhelming to decide which one is right for your story. But don't worry, I'm here to help! Let me give you a quick rundown of some of the most popular genres out there and how they can shape your story:

Romance Plot: Focuses on the development of a romantic relationship between two characters. Theme: Love, passion, and relationships. Tone: Emotionally charged, often with elements of humor or drama. Style: Emphasizes character development and emotional depth.

Mystery Plot: Involves a crime or puzzle that needs to be solved. Theme: Crime, justice, and the human psyche. Tone: Suspenseful and atmospheric, often with a dark or gritty tone. Style: Tightly plotted, with clues and red herrings that keep readers guessing.

Science Fiction Plot: Often involves futuristic or speculative elements, such as space travel, aliens, or advanced technology. Theme: Exploration, innovation, and the impact of technology on society. Tone: Can be serious or lighthearted, depending on the focus of the story. Style: Imaginative and creative, with an emphasis on world-building and scientific accuracy.

Fantasy Plot: Often involves a magical or supernatural world, with mythical creatures and/or magical powers. Theme: Good versus evil, heroism, and the power of imagination. Tone: Can be dark or lighthearted, depending on the focus of the story. Style: Richly detailed and descriptive, with an emphasis on world-building and creating a sense of wonder.

Historical Fiction Plot: Set in a specific time period in history, often with real historical figures and events. Theme: The human experience and the impact of history on individuals and society. Tone: Often serious and thought-provoking, with an emphasis on authenticity. Style: Meticulously researched and detailed, with an emphasis on historical accuracy and atmosphere.

Thriller Plot: Typically involves high stakes, danger, and tension, with a focus on action and suspense. Theme: Danger, survival, and morality. Tone: Tense and exciting, with a sense of urgency and danger. Style: Fast-paced and plot-driven, with a focus on action and suspense.

Horror Plot: Focuses on creating a sense of fear, dread, or terror in the reader. Theme: Fear, darkness, and the unknown. Tone: Dark and ominous, with elements of terror and suspense. Style: Often graphic and unsettling, with a focus on atmospheric setting and vivid descriptions of gore or violence.

Young Adult (YA) Plot: Typically features teenage protagonists dealing with coming-of-age issues, such as identity, relationships, and personal growth. Theme: Identity, belonging, and the transition to adulthood. Tone: Often earnest and emotional, with a focus on relatable characters and experiences. Style: Accessible and engaging, with a focus on character development and relatable themes.

Literary Fiction Plot: Emphasizes character development and exploration of ideas, often without a clear plot-driven structure. Theme: Human experience, social issues, and the complexities of life. Tone: Serious and contemplative, with an emphasis on emotional depth and complexity. Style: Often stylistically experimental or unconventional, with a focus on character psychology and introspection.

Comedy Plot: Emphasizes humor and satire, often with a focus on exaggerated characters and situations. Theme: Laughter, joy, and the absurdity of life. Tone: Light and comedic, with an emphasis on humor and wit. Style: Often fast-paced and filled with witty banter and humorous observations.

Western Plot: Set in the American West during the 19th century, often with a focus on cowboys, outlaws, and frontier life. Theme: Courage, survival, and rugged individualism. Tone: Rustic and tough, with an emphasis on adventure and action. Style: Often descriptive and atmospheric, with a focus on the unique landscape and culture of the American West.

Dystopian Plot: Set in a society or world that has become dark, oppressive, or dysfunctional, often as a result of a catastrophic event. Theme: Freedom, rebellion, and the dangers of totalitarianism. Tone: Bleak and pessimistic, with an emphasis on the dangers of conformity and control. Style: Often atmospheric and descriptive, with a focus on world-building and the exploration of dystopian themes.

Sub-Genre:

As a writer, you've probably heard of sub-genres before. They're like categories or subcategories within a broader genre, based on specific themes, settings, plot elements, or writing style. These sub-genres help to further define and categorize works of literature within a broader genre, making it easier for readers to find books that align with their interests.

For example, in the broad genre of science fiction, there are many different sub-genres like cyberpunk, space opera, hard science fiction, and more. Each sub-genre has its own unique characteristics and themes that differentiate it from other types of science fiction. Likewise, in the genre of mystery, there are sub-genres like cozy mysteries, police procedurals, and psychological thrillers, each with its distinct elements and themes.

Romance

Historical romance: These stories are set in the past and often explore themes of social norms and historical events. They can be sweeping epics or more intimate love stories, and the writing style can be more formal or descriptive.

Contemporary romance: Set in the present day, these stories often explore modern relationships, dating, and career aspirations. They can be light and funny or emotional and dramatic, with a more conversational and informal writing style.

Paranormal romance: These stories feature supernatural elements like vampires, werewolves, and witches. They can explore forbidden love, good versus evil, and the challenges of having supernatural abilities. The tone can be dark and moody or romantic and sexy, and the writing style often includes descriptive world-building.

Romantic suspense: Combining romance and suspense, these stories often involve a heroine in danger who is protected by a hero. They can be fast-paced and action-packed, with a tense and dramatic tone and a plot-driven writing style.

Inspirational romance: These stories often explore themes of faith, redemption, and personal growth. They can involve characters overcoming obstacles and finding hope in their beliefs, with an uplifting and hopeful tone and a focus on character development and inner dialogue.

Erotic romance: These stories feature explicit sexual content and explore themes of passion and desire. They can involve characters exploring their sexuality and forming intense emotional connections, with a sensual and steamy tone and a descriptive and graphic writing style.

LGBTQ+ romance: These stories feature same-sex or non-binary relationships and explore themes of identity, acceptance, and overcoming societal norms. They can be heartfelt and emotional, with a writing style that varies depending on the sub-genre (like historical, contemporary, or paranormal).

Western romance: These stories are set in the American West and often involve cowboys, ranchers, and outlaws. They can explore themes of rugged individualism, adventure, and romance, with a rugged and outdoorsy tone and a writing style that includes descriptive landscapes and dialect.

Fantasy romance: These stories combine elements of fantasy and romance and often involve mythical creatures, magic, and epic journeys. They can explore forbidden love, quests, and battles between good and evil, with a sweeping and grand tone and a writing style that includes descriptive world-building.

Multicultural romance: These stories feature characters from diverse cultural backgrounds and explore themes of identity, family, and tradition. They can involve characters navigating cultural differences and forming deep connections, with a sensitive and heartfelt tone and a writing style that varies depending on the sub-genre (like historical or contemporary).

Mystery

Cozy Mystery: Cozy mysteries are often set in small, quaint towns or villages, and feature an amateur sleuth who solves a murder or series of murders. The tone is light and often humorous, with a focus on character and relationships rather than graphic violence or sex.

Police Procedural: Police procedurals focus on the investigation process of a crime, and often feature a professional law enforcement detective as the main character. The plot is driven by the methods used to solve the crime, and the tone is often gritty and realistic.

Hard-Boiled Mystery: Hard-boiled mysteries feature tough, cynical detectives who operate outside of the law to solve crimes. The tone is dark and gritty, with a focus on violence and corruption.

Historical Mystery: Historical mysteries are set in the past and often feature famous historical figures or events as part of the plot. The tone is often atmospheric, with a focus on the historical setting and culture.

Amateur Sleuth: Amateur sleuth mysteries feature a non-professional detective as the main character, such as a journalist, librarian, or chef. The tone is often lighthearted and cozy, with a focus on the amateur detective's unique skills and abilities.

Legal Thriller: Legal thrillers often involve legal proceedings or courtroom drama as part of the plot. The main character is often a lawyer or judge, and the tone is often intense and suspenseful.

Noir: Noir mysteries are characterized by their dark and pessimistic tone, with flawed characters and morally ambiguous situations. The focus is on the psychological aspects of crime, rather than the procedural.

Romantic Suspense: Romantic suspense combines elements of both romance and mystery, with a focus on the relationship between the main characters as well as the suspenseful plot.

Whodunit: Whodunit mysteries are characterized by their focus on the puzzle-like aspect of solving a crime, with a twist ending revealing the identity of the culprit. The tone is often light and playful, with a focus on the clues and red herrings that lead up to the solution.

Science Fiction.

Cyberpunk: This sub-genre typically features a near-future, dystopian setting in which advanced technology has both empowered and oppressed society. The tone is often gritty and dark, with a focus on the impact of technology on human identity.

Space Opera: This sub-genre is characterized by grand-scale adventures and space battles set in a future where humanity has colonized the galaxy. The tone is often adventurous and heroic, with an emphasis on world-building and exploration.

Post-Apocalyptic: This sub-genre is set in a world after a major catastrophe or disaster, and focuses on the struggle for survival and rebuilding of society. The tone is often bleak and pessimistic, with themes of isolation, desperation, and survival.

Alternate History: This sub-genre explores what would happen if key historical events had played out differently, resulting in a different present-day world. The tone and themes can vary widely depending on the point of divergence in history.

Hard Science Fiction: This sub-genre emphasizes scientific accuracy and plausibility in its exploration of speculative concepts and technologies. The tone can vary, but often has a focus on problem-solving and logical deduction.

Time Travel: This sub-genre involves characters traveling through time to alter the course of history or prevent a catastrophic event. The tone can vary widely depending on the consequences of altering history.

Alien Invasion: This sub-genre typically features humans struggling to defend Earth from an alien invasion. The tone is often action-packed and suspenseful, with a focus on survival and overcoming seemingly insurmountable odds.

Steampunk: This sub-genre is set in a world where steam power is the dominant technology, often featuring Victorian-era settings and aesthetics. The tone is often adventurous and fantastical, with an emphasis on creativity and innovation.

Military Science Fiction: This sub-genre typically involves soldiers and military units in futuristic settings, often featuring advanced technology and alien races. The tone is often action-packed and focused on combat and strategy.

Biopunk: This sub-genre explores the implications of biotechnology and genetic engineering, often featuring genetic modification of organisms or humans. The tone can be dark and cautionary, with themes of ethics and control.

Cyberprep: This sub-genre is a hybrid of cyberpunk and preppy fashion, featuring high-tech and high-fashion elements in a futuristic setting. The tone can be lighthearted and satirical, with a focus on fashion and style.

Space Western: This sub-genre combines science fiction and Western themes, often featuring space cowboys and frontier settlements on distant planets. The tone is often adventurous and action-packed, with a focus on individualism and freedom.

Slipstream: This sub-genre blends elements of science fiction with surrealism, often featuring strange or unexplained phenomena. The tone can be dreamlike and ambiguous, with a focus on atmosphere and mood.

New Wave: This sub-genre emerged in the 1960s and 1970s, featuring experimental and avant-garde styles and themes. The tone can be unconventional and challenging, with a focus on literary techniques and subversion of traditional science fiction tropes.

Mundane Science Fiction: This sub-genre emphasizes realism and plausibility in its exploration of near-future technology and societal developments. The tone is often introspective and critical, with a focus on the impact of technology on everyday life.

Fantasy

High Fantasy/Epic Fantasy: This sub-genre is characterized by a richly developed fictional world, often with its own history, geography, and mythology. The plot often centers on a hero's journey or quest to save the world or defeat evil. The tone is often grand and epic, with a focus on magic, destiny, and larger-than-life conflicts.

Urban Fantasy: This sub-genre is set in a contemporary, urban setting, often featuring supernatural elements like vampires, werewolves, and witches. The tone can be dark and gritty, with a focus on action, suspense, and the clash between the supernatural and the mundane.

Historical Fantasy: This sub-genre is set in a historical period, often featuring elements of magic and the supernatural. The tone can be romantic and atmospheric, with a focus on historical accuracy as well as fantastical elements.

Fairy Tale Retellings: This sub-genre reimagines classic fairy tales with new twists and perspectives. The tone can range from whimsical to dark and brooding, with a focus on themes of transformation and the power of storytelling.

Mythic Fantasy: This sub-genre draws on elements of myth and folklore, often featuring gods, goddesses, and other supernatural beings. The tone can be mystical and spiritual, with a focus on themes of destiny, fate, and the search for meaning.

Dark Fantasy: This sub-genre often features supernatural or horror elements, and may have a bleak or nihilistic tone. The plot can involve antiheroes or morally ambiguous characters, and may explore themes of power, corruption, and redemption.

Portal Fantasy: This sub-genre involves characters who travel between different worlds or dimensions, often featuring a contrast between the magical and the mundane. The tone can be adventurous and whimsical, with a focus on exploration and discovery.

Sword and Sorcery: This sub-genre features heroes who are skilled with weapons and magic, often set in a medieval-inspired world. The tone can be action-packed and swashbuckling, with a focus on adventure, combat, and daring exploits.

Comic Fantasy: This sub-genre combines elements of fantasy and humor, often featuring absurd or satirical elements. The tone is often lighthearted and comedic, with a focus on wordplay, satire, and parody.

Paranormal Romance: This sub-genre combines elements of romance and fantasy, often featuring supernatural love interests like vampires or werewolves. The tone can be romantic and steamy, with a focus on passion, desire, and forbidden love.

Steampunk Fantasy: This sub-genre is set in a world where steam power and clockwork technology are the norm. The plot often involves a mix of adventure, science fiction, and fantasy elements. The tone is often gritty and industrial, and the style is characterized by a Victorian aesthetic and the use of intricate machinery.

Contemporary Fantasy: This sub-genre takes place in the present day and features magic and fantastical elements that coexist with the mundane world. The plot often involves characters discovering or coming to terms with their magical abilities. The tone is often lighthearted, and the style is characterized by blending magic and realism.

Magical Realism: This sub-genre blends elements of the fantastical with the ordinary, creating a world where magic is a natural part of everyday life. The plot often explores the intersection between the magical and the real, with characters struggling to make sense of their extraordinary experiences. The tone is often dreamlike, and the style is characterized by richly descriptive prose.

Historical Fiction.

Historical romance: Set in a specific historical period, the plot centers on a romantic relationship between characters. The theme may focus on societal expectations, class differences, or political intrigue. The tone is usually romantic, with elements of drama and tension. The style emphasizes historical accuracy and details, such as costumes, settings, and dialogue.

Alternate history: The plot imagines an alternate version of history, where events unfold differently from what actually happened. The theme may explore the consequences of different choices or highlight how different societies might have evolved. The tone can range from serious to playful, depending on the author's intent. The style often emphasizes world-building, creating a detailed and believable alternate reality.

Historical fantasy: Combining elements of historical fiction and fantasy, this subgenre often involves magical or supernatural elements. The plot may center on a quest or adventure set in a specific historical period, with magical or mythical creatures and events. The theme often explores the intersection of history and fantasy, highlighting how beliefs and legends shape society. The tone can be fantastical or historical, depending on the balance of elements. The style often emphasizes world-building, creating a fully realized alternate reality.

Historical mystery: Set in a specific historical period, the plot centers on a mystery that must be solved by the protagonist. The theme may explore social or political issues of the time, and the tone is often suspenseful and dramatic. The style often emphasizes historical accuracy, highlighting the details of daily life and societal norms of the period.

Historical adventure: The plot centers on a thrilling adventure set in a specific historical period, often involving exploration, battles, or other daring escapades. The theme may explore themes of heroism, duty, or sacrifice, and the tone is often action-packed and exciting. The style emphasizes historical accuracy, highlighting the details of weapons, clothing, and other cultural aspects of the period.

Historical drama: The plot centers on the emotional and personal struggles of characters living in a specific historical period. The theme may explore issues of social justice, morality, or individualism, and the tone is often serious and introspective. The style emphasizes historical accuracy, highlighting the details of the characters' lives and the period's cultural norms.

Biographical historical fiction: The plot is based on the life of a historical figure, often imagining details that are not known or not recorded. The theme may explore the motivations and struggles of the individual or highlight the cultural and political context of the time. The tone can be serious or light-hearted, depending on the focus of the story. The style emphasizes historical accuracy, often using primary sources to create a realistic portrayal of the individual's life and times.

Historical horror: Combining elements of horror and historical fiction, this subgenre often involves supernatural or mystical elements set in a specific historical period. The plot may center on a curse or a haunted location, with the theme often exploring how historical beliefs and legends shape modern fears. The tone is often eerie and unsettling, and the style emphasizes historical accuracy and the use of atmospheric details to create a sense of dread.

Historical romance mystery: This subgenre combines elements of historical romance and historical mystery, often involving a romantic relationship that is threatened or complicated by a mystery or crime. The theme may explore social or political issues of the time, and the tone is often suspenseful and romantic. The style emphasizes historical accuracy, highlighting the details of daily life and societal norms of the period.

War fiction: Set during a specific historical conflict, the plot centers on the experiences of soldiers, civilians, or others affected by the war. The theme may explore issues of sacrifice, duty, and morality, and the tone is often gritty and realistic. The style emphasizes historical accuracy, highlighting the details of weaponry, battles,

Thriller

Psychological thriller - The plot revolves around the mental and emotional states of the characters, often featuring unreliable narrators, unexpected plot twists, and intense psychological tension. Themes may include mental illness, trauma, and the dark side of human nature. The tone is usually suspenseful and ominous.

Crime thriller - These stories focus on a crime, often a murder, and the investigation that follows. The plot typically involves a detective or law enforcement officer trying to solve the crime and bring the perpetrator to justice. Themes may include corruption, justice, and morality. The tone can range from gritty and dark to fast-paced and action-packed.

Spy thriller - The plot involves espionage, secret agents, and international intrigue. The themes may include politics, espionage, and espionage. The tone is usually suspenseful and fast-paced, with high stakes and intense action scenes.

Legal thriller - These stories focus on lawyers and legal proceedings, often involving a courtroom drama. The plot typically involves a lawyer working to uncover the truth and bring justice to a case. Themes may include justice, ethics, and the law. The tone is usually suspenseful and dramatic.

Techno-thriller - This sub-genre combines elements of science fiction and thriller, often featuring technology as a major plot point. The plot typically involves a threat to society or the world that can only be resolved through the use of advanced technology. Themes may include artificial intelligence, cyber warfare, and technological advancement. The tone is usually fast-paced and action-packed.

Action thriller - These stories are heavy on action and may include elements of crime, espionage, or terrorism. The plot typically involves a protagonist fighting against a powerful antagonist or organization. Themes may include heroism, justice, and revenge. The tone is usually fast-paced and full of action scenes.

Historical thriller - The plot is set in a historical period and involves mystery, intrigue, and danger. Themes may include historical events, social issues, and politics. The tone is usually atmospheric and suspenseful.

Disaster thriller - The plot typically involves a natural disaster or catastrophic event, and the characters must fight to survive. Themes may include survival, human nature, and the fragility of society. The tone is usually tense and suspenseful.

Medical thriller - These stories involve medical professionals, diseases, and medical research. The plot typically involves a medical crisis that threatens the lives of many people. Themes may include medical ethics, science, and the nature of life and death. The tone can range from intense and suspenseful to thoughtful and introspective.

Horror thriller - This sub-genre combines elements of horror and thriller, often featuring supernatural or paranormal elements. The plot typically involves a protagonist facing off against a powerful and evil force. Themes may include fear, death, and the supernatural. The tone is usually dark and terrifying.

Horror

Supernatural horror - This sub-genre involves supernatural elements such as ghosts, demons, and witches. The plot typically revolves around an evil presence that haunts or possesses individuals or places. Themes often involve the struggle between good and evil, the afterlife, and the supernatural world. The tone can be eerie, unsettling, or frightening. The style can include vivid descriptions of supernatural events or paranormal activity.

Psychological horror - This sub-genre focuses on the psychological aspects of fear, anxiety, and mental breakdowns. The plot may involve a character's descent into madness, paranoia, or obsession. Themes can explore the limits of the human mind, the duality of human nature, and the fragility of sanity. The tone can be disturbing, disorienting, or unsettling. The style can include introspective narration, unreliable narrators, or surreal imagery.

Slasher horror - This sub-genre involves a serial killer or a group of killers who hunt down and murder their victims. The plot often revolves around a group of people who are trapped or isolated with the killer, such as a group of teenagers in a cabin in the woods. Themes can explore the fear of death, survival instincts, and the consequences of violence. The tone can be intense, gory, or suspenseful. The style can include graphic violence, jump scares, and tense chase scenes.

Gothic horror - This sub-genre is characterized by dark, atmospheric settings, such as abandoned castles, haunted mansions, and ancient ruins. The plot typically involves supernatural or mysterious occurrences, such as curses, ghosts, or ancient evils. Themes can explore the corruption of power, the dangers of obsession, and the struggle between rationality and superstition. The tone can be melancholic, oppressive, or ominous. The style can include ornate language, archaic settings, and romanticized descriptions.

Body horror - This sub-genre focuses on the physical horror of bodily transformation or mutilation. The plot may involve diseases, mutations, or body horror caused by technology. Themes can explore the limits of the human body, the dangers of scientific progress, and the horror of physical transformation. The tone can be grotesque, revolting, or terrifying. The style can include vivid descriptions of bodily horror, visceral imagery, and medical terminology.

Literary Fiction

Historical Literary Fiction: This sub-genre is characterized by a focus on historical events and figures, with an emphasis on the emotions and inner lives of the characters. The plot is often driven by the characters' personal struggles and relationships, rather than by external events. Themes in historical literary fiction often explore the impact of history on the individual and the human condition. The tone can be reflective, nostalgic, and introspective, and the style is often lyrical and descriptive.

Contemporary Literary Fiction: This sub-genre focuses on the present-day world, with a focus on realistic and complex characters and their relationships. The plot often centers around the characters' struggles with personal issues and societal problems, with an emphasis on character development and introspection. Themes can vary widely but often explore the human experience in contemporary society. The tone can be serious, contemplative, or satirical, and the style is often characterized by literary devices such as metaphor, symbolism, and stream of consciousness.

Experimental Literary Fiction: This sub-genre is characterized by an unconventional approach to narrative structure, language, and form. The plot can be non-linear or fragmented, and the themes may be abstract or philosophical. The tone and style can vary widely but often aim to challenge the reader's expectations and push the boundaries of traditional storytelling.

Multi-Cultural Literary Fiction: This sub-genre explores the experiences and perspectives of characters from diverse cultural backgrounds. The plot may focus on the challenges of living between cultures or on the intersection of different cultural identities. Themes often explore issues of identity, belonging, and cultural heritage. The tone can be serious, humorous, or satirical, and the style is often characterized by rich descriptions of cultural traditions and practices.

Metafiction: This sub-genre is characterized by a self-referential approach to storytelling, with the author drawing attention to the construction of the narrative itself. The plot may involve characters who are aware of their existence within a fictional world or who interact with the author. Themes often explore the nature of fiction, reality, and the relationship between author and reader. The tone and style can be playful, ironic, or philosophical.

Psychological Literary Fiction: This sub-genre focuses on the psychological development and inner lives of the characters. The plot may center around the characters' struggles with mental illness, trauma, or personal crises. Themes often explore the nature of the human mind and emotions, and the impact of past experiences on the present. The tone can be introspective, haunting, or disturbing, and the style is often characterized by vivid descriptions of the characters' psychological states.

Postmodern Literary Fiction: This sub-genre is characterized by a skeptical attitude toward grand narratives and an interest in the fragmentation and deconstruction of meaning. The plot may be non-linear or fragmented, and the themes may explore the breakdown of societal norms and values. The tone and style can be playful, ironic, or satirical, and the style often incorporates elements of popular culture and intertextuality.

Comedy

Romantic Comedy: A humorous story focused on a romantic relationship between the main characters. The plot often includes obstacles that the couple must overcome in order to be together. The tone is light-hearted and the style is witty and charming.

Satire: A story that uses humor to criticize social or political issues. The plot often involves exaggerated or absurd situations and characters. The theme is often social commentary or critique of certain practices. The tone can be biting or ironic, and the style is often sharp and clever.

Farce: A comedic story that relies heavily on physical humor, improbable situations, and mistaken identities. The plot is often fast-paced and chaotic, and the tone is over-the-top and exaggerated. The style is often slapstick and absurd.

Parody: A story that imitates the style or conventions of another work in order to make fun of it. The plot is often a tongue-in-cheek version of the original story, with exaggerated or nonsensical elements. The tone can be mocking or affectionate, and the style often mimics the original work.

Dark Comedy: A story that uses humor to address serious or taboo subjects, such as death, disease, or crime. The plot often involves characters in bleak or macabre situations, and the humor is often edgy and uncomfortable. The tone is often ironic or sardonic, and the style can be morbid or irreverent.

Comedy of Manners: A story that satirizes the social behavior and customs of a particular group or class of people. The plot often involves witty banter and subtle social cues, and the humor is often sophisticated and intellectual. The tone is often dry or understated, and the style is elegant and refined.

Comic Fantasy: A story that combines humor with elements of fantasy or science fiction. The plot often involves fantastical or absurd elements, and the humor can be whimsical or silly. The tone is often light-hearted and playful, and the style can be fanciful or imaginative.

Black Comedy: A story that uses humor to explore dark or taboo subjects, such as death, crime, or mental illness. The plot often involves characters in extreme or disturbing situations, and the humor is often irreverent or gallows. The tone can be bleak or nihilistic, and the style is often daring or provocative.

Absurdist Comedy: A story that uses humor to explore the meaninglessness or irrationality of human existence. The plot often involves surreal or absurd situations, and the humor can be nonsensical or absurd. The tone is often detached or alienated, and the style can be experimental or avant-garde.

Western

Classic Western: The plot usually revolves around a conflict between good and evil, often involving cowboys, Native Americans, and lawmen. The themes are typically centered around justice, honor, and self-reliance. The tone is often serious and gritty, and the style is straightforward and unadorned.

Western Romance: The plot revolves around a romantic relationship between two main characters set against the backdrop of the American West. The themes typically involve love, commitment, and the challenges of living in a rugged and unpredictable environment. The tone is often romantic and sentimental, and the style is descriptive and emotionally expressive.

Western Adventure: The plot involves an exciting and dangerous journey or quest undertaken by the main characters, often set in the wilderness or on the frontier. The themes are usually centered around courage, perseverance, and survival. The tone is often action-packed and suspenseful, and the style is fast-paced and visually descriptive.

Weird West: This sub-genre blends elements of Western fiction with supernatural or science-fiction elements, often set in an alternative or fantastical version of the American West. The themes typically involve the clash between the natural and the supernatural, as well as the exploration of the human psyche. The tone is often dark and unsettling, and the style is imaginative and evocative.

Western Noir: This sub-genre features the classic noir elements such as crime, corruption, and moral ambiguity, set in a Western setting. The themes often explore the dark side of human nature, including greed, violence, and betrayal. The tone is typically bleak and cynical, and the style is atmospheric and evocative.

Spaghetti Western: This sub-genre originated in Italy and is characterized by its stylized and exaggerated depictions of violence and action, often set in the American West. The themes typically involve revenge, justice, and survival, and the tone is often highly dramatic and operatic. The style is visually stunning, with striking landscapes, vivid colors, and innovative camera work.

Dystopian

Post-Apocalyptic Dystopia: In this sub-genre, the world as we know it has ended, and society has collapsed. The plot often centers around the characters' struggle for survival in a world where resources are scarce and danger lurks around every corner. Themes include the consequences of environmental disaster, the dangers of unchecked technology, and the importance of community in times of crisis. Tone is often bleak, but there can also be moments of hope and resilience. Style can be gritty and realistic or more imaginative and surreal.

Utopian/Dystopian Hybrid: This sub-genre features a world that appears to be a utopia on the surface but hides a darker side. The plot often revolves around a protagonist who uncovers the dark underbelly of the supposedly perfect society. Themes include the dangers of conformity, the corrupting influence of power, and the importance of individuality. Tone can be both optimistic and pessimistic, with a sense of tension and unease permeating the story. Style can be both realistic and fantastical.

Political Dystopia: In this sub-genre, the world is ruled by an oppressive government or dictator. The plot often revolves around a protagonist or group of protagonists who rebel against the ruling powers. Themes include the dangers of totalitarianism, the importance of personal freedom and democracy, and the corrupting influence of power. Tone can be dark and somber, with a sense of urgency and danger. Style can be both realistic and fantastical.

Technological Dystopia: This sub-genre features a world where technology has become a threat to humanity. The plot often centers around the unintended consequences of technological advancement and the struggle to regain control. Themes include the dangers of artificial intelligence, the loss of privacy, and the importance of human connection. Tone can be both pessimistic and optimistic, with a sense of wonder and awe mixed with fear and uncertainty. Style can be both realistic and fantastical.

Environmental Dystopia: In this sub-genre, the world is suffering from ecological collapse. The plot often centers around the struggle to survive in a world where natural resources are scarce and the environment is toxic. Themes include the consequences of climate change, the importance of sustainable living, and the dangers of greed and short-sightedness. Tone can be both somber and hopeful, with a sense of urgency and the need for action. Style can be both realistic and fantastical.

Medical Dystopia: In this sub-genre, society is threatened by a deadly disease or virus. The plot often revolves around the search for a cure or vaccine and the struggle to contain the outbreak. Themes include the dangers of biological warfare, the importance of medical research and innovation, and the importance of global cooperation in times of crisis. Tone can be both tense and suspenseful, with a sense of urgency and the need for quick action. Style can be both realistic and fantastical.

Cyberpunk: This sub-genre features a dystopian future where technology has become the dominant force in society. The plot often centers around characters who are marginalized or oppressed by the ruling powers and who use technology to fight back. Themes include the dangers of unchecked capitalism, the loss of privacy, and the importance of personal freedom. Tone is often dark and gritty, with a sense of danger and rebellion. Style can be both futuristic and retro.

Steampunk: This sub-genre features a dystopian world where technology has taken a different form, with steam-powered machines and Victorian-era aesthetics. The plot often revolves around characters who are struggling against a corrupt ruling class or using technology to achieve their goals. Themes include the dangers of industrialization, the importance of individuality and creativity, and the need for social reform. Tone can be both

Tropes

Let me break down the importance of tropes in storytelling for you. Tropes are literary or storytelling devices that are commonly used in a specific genre or type of story. They can help readers identify and understand the story's themes, providing them with a sense of familiarity and expectations about the plot and characters.

For instance, in fantasy and adventure stories, the "hero's journey" is a popular trope where the protagonist embarks on a quest, faces challenges, and eventually triumphs over adversity. When used effectively, tropes can create a sense of comfort and connection between the reader and the story, while also allowing authors to explore new ideas and variations on established themes.

Tropes can also be used to subvert or challenge reader expectations, which can create a sense of surprise or intrigue. For example, a romance story that plays with the "enemies to lovers" trope by having the two characters come from opposing sides of a political conflict can create a fresh and unexpected twist on a familiar theme.

Overall, despite sometimes being viewed as cliché or overused, tropes serve an important purpose in storytelling by helping readers engage with and understand the story. Plus, they offer authors a useful framework for exploring new ideas and themes.

Romance

Enemies to Lovers - two characters who start out as adversaries or even enemies, but eventually fall in love.

Friends to Lovers - two characters who have been friends for a long time, but eventually realize their feelings for each other go beyond friendship.

Second Chance Romance - two characters who have a history together, but for various reasons, didn't work out. They get a second chance at love.

Forbidden Love - two characters who are attracted to each other but are prevented from being together due to societal or cultural constraints, such as a workplace romance or a relationship between a boss and an employee.

Fake Relationship - two characters who enter into a fake relationship for various reasons, but eventually develop real feelings for each other.

Love Triangle - two characters who compete for the affection of a third character.

Billionaire Romance - a wealthy character falls in love with someone from a different social class, creating a conflict between money and love.

Small Town Romance - two characters fall in love in a close-knit community or small town setting.

Alpha Hero - a strong, dominant male character who falls in love with a strong, independent female character.

Marriage of Convenience - two characters agree to marry for practical reasons, such as financial stability or immigration purposes, but end up falling in love.

Single Parent Romance - a character falls in love with someone who already has a child, creating a family dynamic.

Time Travel Romance - a character travels through time and falls in love with someone from a different era.

Bodyguard Romance - a character falls in love with their bodyguard, creating a dynamic of danger and protection.

Sports Romance - two characters fall in love in the context of a sports team or competition.

Beauty and the Beast - a physically unattractive character falls in love with someone who sees beyond their appearance.

Amnesia Romance - a character loses their memory and falls in love with someone who helps them regain it.

Opposites Attract - two characters who are very different fall in love, creating a dynamic of contrast.

Office Romance - two characters fall in love in the context of a workplace or office setting.

Vacation Romance - two characters fall in love while on vacation, creating a dynamic of escape and adventure.

Royalty Romance - a character falls in love with someone from a royal or aristocratic family, creating a conflict between love and social status.

Mystery

Whodunit - the main focus of the story is to discover who committed a crime.

Detective Protagonist - a detective or investigator is the main character, who solves the mystery.

Amateur Sleuth - a non-professional character who is drawn into the mystery and works to solve it.

Closed Circle - a group of people is trapped in a confined space with a murderer, forcing them to solve the mystery before they become the next victim.

Cozy Mystery - a lighthearted and humorous mystery featuring an amateur sleuth in a small town setting.

Police Procedural - a detailed look at the inner workings of a police investigation, from collecting evidence to solving the crime.

Locked Room Mystery - a murder occurs in a room that appears to be locked from the inside, leaving investigators to solve how the killer could have escaped.

Serial Killer - a story centered around a killer who has committed multiple murders and is being pursued by law enforcement.

Noir - a dark and gritty mystery with a bleak outlook, often featuring an anti-hero protagonist.

Hard-boiled - similar to noir, featuring a tough, cynical protagonist who operates outside the law to solve the mystery.

Amateur Detective Team - a group of amateur sleuths work together to solve the mystery.

Red Herring - a misleading clue or character that is intended to distract the reader and throw them off the scent of the real culprit.

Femme Fatale - a mysterious and seductive woman who often plays a central role in the mystery.

Plant - a seemingly innocuous detail or character that is later revealed to be a crucial piece of evidence.

MacGuffin - an object or concept that drives the plot, but ultimately has little importance in the resolution of the mystery.

Culprit POV - the story is told from the perspective of the killer or the criminal, creating a unique twist on the traditional mystery formula.

Protagonist Framed - the main character is framed for a crime they did not commit, forcing them to clear their name and solve the mystery.

Covert Ops - a mystery that involves espionage or intelligence gathering.

Unreliable Narrator - the story is told from the perspective of a character who may not be telling the truth, creating uncertainty and confusion for the reader.

Supernatural Mystery - a mystery that involves supernatural or paranormal elements, such as ghosts, werewolves, or vampires.

Science Fiction

Space Opera - a story that takes place in a vast and complex universe with epic battles and larger-than-life characters.

Time Travel - the ability to travel through time, either to the past or the future.

Alien Invasion - a story that revolves around an extraterrestrial invasion of Earth.

Post-Apocalyptic - a story that takes place after a catastrophic event has destroyed civilization as we know it.

Cyberpunk - a subgenre of science fiction that features a dystopian future where advanced technology has led to a breakdown of society.

Artificial Intelligence - the creation of intelligent machines that can think and reason like humans.

Colonization - a story that explores the colonization of a new planet or the colonization of Earth by extraterrestrial beings.

Galactic Empire - a vast empire that spans across multiple planets and galaxies.

Genetic Engineering - the modification of DNA to create new forms of life or enhance existing ones.

Interstellar Travel - the ability to travel between star systems and explore the vastness of space.

Parallel Universes - the concept of multiple universes or realities existing simultaneously.

Cybernetics - the integration of machines and technology with the human body to enhance abilities or extend lifespan.

Post-Human - the evolution of humanity beyond its current form, either through technology or genetic modification.

Utopia/Dystopia - a society that is either a perfect utopia or a nightmarish dystopia.

Transhumanism - the belief in the ability of humans to evolve beyond their biological limitations.

Hard Science Fiction - a subgenre of science fiction that focuses on the scientific accuracy and realism of the story.

Soft Science Fiction - a subgenre of science fiction that focuses on the social, cultural, and philosophical aspects of the story.

Space Western - a story that combines elements of science fiction with the themes and tropes of a Western.

First Contact - a story that explores the initial meeting between humans and an extraterrestrial species.

Singularity - the point at which artificial intelligence becomes more advanced than human intelligence, leading to a transformation of society.

Fantasy

Epic Quest - a story that revolves around a hero or group of heroes on a perilous journey to achieve a great goal.

Magic - the use of supernatural forces to achieve extraordinary feats or solve problems.

Swords and Sorcery - a subgenre of fantasy that features action-packed adventures with battles and magic.

High Fantasy - a subgenre of fantasy that takes place in an alternate world with its own history, culture, and mythology.

Dark Fantasy - a subgenre of fantasy that incorporates horror elements and a darker tone.

Prophecy - a prediction or foretelling of future events that drives the plot.

Chosen One - a hero or heroine with a special destiny or purpose.

Magical Creatures - the inclusion of fantastical creatures such as dragons, unicorns, or griffins.

Medieval Setting - a story that takes place in a time period similar to the Middle Ages, with knights, castles, and kings.

Fairy Tales - the retelling or reimagining of classic fairy tales such as Cinderella, Snow White, or Beauty and the Beast.

Parallel Worlds - the concept of multiple worlds or dimensions existing simultaneously.

Coming-of-Age - a story that focuses on a character's growth and development as they transition from childhood to adulthood.

Hero's Journey - a story structure that follows a hero or heroine through a series of trials and challenges.

Mythology - the inclusion of gods and goddesses, myths, and legends from various cultures.

Quest Objects - a magical or mythical object that serves as the goal of the hero's journey.

Underworld - a mysterious and often dangerous realm that exists beneath the surface of the world.

Romance - a romantic subplot or love interest that drives the plot.

Time Travel - the ability to travel through time, either to the past or the future.

Folklore - the inclusion of traditional stories, beliefs, and customs of a particular culture.

Elemental Magic - the use of magic that is connected to the elements such as fire, water, earth, or air.

Historical Fiction

Time Period - a story that takes place in a specific historical time period, such as the Middle Ages, Renaissance, or Victorian era.

Historical Figures - the inclusion of real-life historical figures, such as kings, queens, politicians, or artists, as characters in the story.

Political Intrigue - a plot that involves political maneuvering, conspiracy, and power struggles.

War and Conflict - a story that focuses on a historical war or conflict and its impact on individuals or society.

Romance - a romantic subplot or love interest that is set against the backdrop of a historical event or time period.

Social Commentary - a story that explores social issues and injustices of a specific historical time period, such as class, gender, or race.

Court Intrigue - a plot that takes place in a royal court, with its politics, gossip, and drama.

Historical Mystery - a mystery story that takes place in a specific historical time period, often featuring real-life historical events or figures.

Historical Adventure - an adventure story that takes place in a specific historical time period, often featuring exploration, discovery, and danger.

Family Saga - a multi-generational story that spans a significant period of time and follows a family's history and relationships.

Historical Biographical Fiction - a fictionalized account of a real-life historical figure's life and experiences.

Secret Societies - a plot that involves secret organizations or societies, often with historical significance.

Historical Romance - a romantic story set in a specific historical time period, often with themes of social class, duty, and tradition.

Historical Fantasy - a blend of historical fiction and fantasy elements, such as magic, mythical creatures, or alternative history.

Historical Horror - a blend of historical fiction and horror elements, often exploring the darker aspects of a specific historical time period.

Time Travel - the ability to travel through time to experience different historical time periods.

Historical Crime - a crime story that takes place in a specific historical time period, often featuring real-life historical crimes or criminals.

Historical Epic - a grand, sweeping story that covers a significant period of time and multiple characters.

Historical Drama - a dramatic story that takes place in a specific historical time period, often featuring conflict, struggle, and personal growth.

Historical Fictionalization - a fictional story that takes place in a specific historical time period, often featuring real-life historical events or figures.

Thriller

High Stakes - a story where the protagonist is facing extreme danger or risk to their life or the lives of others.

Psychological Thriller - a story that focuses on the psychological and emotional state of the characters, often involving mind games and manipulation.

Serial Killer - a plot that involves a murderer who kills multiple victims over a period of time, often with a specific motive or pattern.

Conspiracy - a plot that involves a secret organization or group that is working against the protagonist and their goals.

Race Against Time - a story where the protagonist has a limited amount of time to achieve their goal before a catastrophic event occurs.

Action-Packed - a story with plenty of fast-paced action scenes, often featuring chases, fights, and explosions.

Law Enforcement - a plot that involves law enforcement agencies or officers investigating a crime or trying to stop a criminal.

Revenge - a plot that involves a character seeking revenge against those who have wronged them or their loved ones.

International Intrigue - a story that takes place across multiple countries and involves espionage, international conflicts, or political intrigue.

Kidnapping - a plot that involves the abduction of a character or characters, often for ransom or other nefarious purposes.

Spy Thriller - a story that features a spy or secret agent working to stop a dangerous threat to national security.

Cat-and-Mouse - a plot that involves a game of cat-and-mouse between the protagonist and their enemy, often with each trying to outsmart the other.

Betrayal - a plot that involves a character being betrayed by someone they thought they could trust.

Technological Threat - a story that involves a dangerous technological threat, such as a computer virus or rogue AI.

Locked Room Mystery - a mystery where the crime or danger takes place in a confined space, such as a locked room or an isolated location.

Political Thriller - a story that involves political power struggles, corruption, or conspiracies.

Survival - a story where the protagonist is fighting for survival in a dangerous or hostile environment.

Medical Thriller - a story that involves a medical mystery, such as a virus or disease outbreak, or a medical conspiracy.

Heist - a plot that involves a group of characters planning and executing a high-stakes theft or robbery.

Paranormal Thriller - a story that involves paranormal or supernatural elements, such as ghosts or psychic abilities, in a thriller setting.

Horror

Haunted House - a story that takes place in a house or building that is haunted by ghosts or other supernatural entities.

Supernatural Forces - a plot that involves supernatural entities or forces, such as demons, witches, or monsters.

Psychological Horror - a story that focuses on the mental and emotional state of the characters, often involving fears, phobias, or psychological trauma.

Body Horror - a plot that involves grotesque or horrifying physical transformations or deformities, often caused by disease or experimentation.

Gore - a story that involves graphic and bloody violence, often featuring mutilation or dismemberment.

Slasher - a plot that involves a killer who stalks and murders their victims, often with a signature weapon or method.

Survival Horror - a story where the characters are fighting for survival against a threat that is overwhelming and seemingly unstoppable.

Found Footage - a plot that involves footage or recordings of an event or situation, often presented as a documentary or amateur recording.

Creepy Children - a plot that involves creepy or malevolent children, often with supernatural abilities or knowledge.

Possession - a plot that involves a character being possessed by a demon or other supernatural entity.

Monster - a plot that involves a monstrous creature, often with a unique or terrifying design.

Ghost Story - a plot that involves ghosts or spirits, often seeking revenge or trying to communicate with the living.

Curses - a plot that involves a character or location being cursed, often with a deadly or horrific consequence.

Urban Legend - a plot that involves a well-known urban legend or myth, often with a dark or gruesome twist.

Religious Horror - a story that involves religious or cult themes, often with a sinister or demonic presence.

Vampires - a plot that involves vampires, often with unique or interesting twists on the classic vampire lore.

Demonic Possession - a plot that involves a character being possessed by a demon, often with terrifying consequences.

Body Snatchers - a plot that involves aliens or other entities that take over human bodies, often with the goal of domination or destruction.

Cult Horror - a story that involves a cult or secret society, often with dark or violent rituals.

Cosmic Horror - a story that involves vast, unknowable entities or forces that are beyond human comprehension.

Young Adult (YA)

Coming of age - a plot that focuses on a character's journey from adolescence to adulthood, often involving self-discovery and personal growth.

Love Triangle - a plot that involves a character choosing between two potential love interests, often causing conflict and tension.

High School Drama - a story that takes place in a high school setting, often involving cliques, popularity contests, and social hierarchies.

Dystopian - a plot that takes place in a futuristic or alternate world where society has become corrupted or oppressive.

Superpowers - a plot that involves characters with supernatural abilities, often exploring themes of responsibility and identity.

Forbidden Romance - a plot that involves characters who are not allowed to be together due to social, cultural, or familial reasons.

Identity Crisis - a plot that involves a character questioning their identity, often exploring themes of race, gender, or sexuality.

Fish out of Water - a plot that involves a character being placed in a new and unfamiliar environment, often leading to culture shock and personal growth.

Rebellion - a plot that involves characters fighting against authority or oppressive forces, often with themes of social justice and empowerment.

Time Travel - a plot that involves characters traveling through time, often exploring themes of consequences and destiny.

Survival - a plot that involves characters fighting for survival in a hostile environment or situation.

Fantasy - a plot that takes place in a fantastical world, often involving mythical creatures and magical powers.

Mystery - a plot that involves a character solving a puzzle or unraveling a mystery, often with a twist ending.

Apocalyptic - a plot that involves characters trying to survive in a world that has been destroyed by a catastrophic event, often exploring themes of hope and resilience.

Boarding School - a story that takes place in a boarding school setting, often involving themes of independence and friendship.

Road Trip - a plot that involves characters going on a journey, often exploring themes of self-discovery and adventure.

Sports - a story that involves characters participating in a sports team or competition, often exploring themes of teamwork and perseverance.

Rich vs. Poor - a plot that involves characters from different socioeconomic backgrounds, often exploring themes of inequality and privilege.

Friendship - a plot that explores the relationships and bonds between characters, often with themes of loyalty and trust.

Teenage Rebellion - a plot that involves characters rebelling against their parents or society, often exploring themes of independence and self-expression.

Literary Fiction

Character study - a plot that focuses on the inner workings of a character's psyche and emotions.

Family drama - a story that involves familial relationships, often exploring themes of love, loss, and identity.

Coming of age - a plot that focuses on a character's journey from adolescence to adulthood, often involving self-discovery and personal growth.

Memory and nostalgia - a plot that explores the past and memories, often with themes of loss, regret, and longing.

Art and creativity - a plot that explores the creative process and the artist's relationship with their art, often with themes of inspiration and obsession.

Existentialism - a plot that explores the meaning of life and existence, often with themes of identity and purpose.

Love and relationships - a plot that explores the complexities of romantic relationships and the human condition.

Social commentary - a plot that uses characters and their stories to comment on societal issues and concerns.

Loss and grief - a plot that explores the themes of loss and grief, often with themes of redemption and acceptance.

Mental health - a plot that explores the struggles and experiences of characters with mental health issues, often with themes of stigma and acceptance.

Nature and environment - a plot that explores the relationship between humans and nature, often with themes of conservation and preservation.

Historical fiction - a plot that takes place in a historical setting, often with themes of nostalgia and nostalgia.

Travel and adventure - a plot that involves characters traveling to new and unfamiliar places, often with themes of self-discovery and adventure.

Mystery - a plot that involves a character solving a puzzle or unraveling a mystery, often with a twist ending.

Philosophy - a plot that explores philosophical concepts and ideas, often with themes of morality and ethics.

Politics and power - a plot that explores the dynamics of power and politics, often with themes of corruption and morality.

Religion and spirituality - a plot that explores the themes of religion and spirituality, often with themes of faith and doubt.

Aging and mortality - a plot that explores the themes of aging and mortality, often with themes of acceptance and legacy.

Experimental fiction - a plot that plays with narrative structure, language, and form, often with themes of innovation and creativity.

Identity and culture - a plot that explores the themes of identity and culture, often with themes of belonging and alienation.

Comedy

Fish out of water - a plot that involves a character being thrust into an unfamiliar or absurd situation.

Screwball comedy - a plot that involves absurd or zany situations, often with fast-paced dialogue and physical humor.

Satire - a plot that uses humor to mock or criticize societal norms or institutions.

Parody - a plot that mimics or exaggerates the tropes and conventions of a particular genre or story.

Romantic comedy - a plot that involves a romantic relationship, often with humorous misunderstandings and obstacles.

Workplace comedy - a plot that takes place in a workplace setting, often with exaggerated or quirky characters and situations.

Farce - a plot that involves chaotic or ridiculous situations, often with mistaken identities and physical humor.

Slapstick - a plot that involves physical humor and exaggerated movements and actions.

Black comedy - a plot that uses humor to address dark or taboo subjects, often with themes of mortality and existentialism.

Situational comedy - a plot that involves humorous situations or misunderstandings.

Spoof - a plot that parodies a particular movie or TV show, often with exaggerated and absurd humor.

Gross-out comedy - a plot that involves bodily humor and gross or taboo subjects.

Buddy comedy - a plot that involves two characters with contrasting personalities who become friends, often with humorous results.

Surreal humor - a plot that involves absurd or dreamlike situations, often with a philosophical or satirical edge.

Comedic irony - a plot that uses irony to create humor, often with unexpected twists and turns.

Stand-up comedy - a plot that involves a comedian's experiences and observations, often with humorous anecdotes and jokes.

Comedic monologue - a plot that involves a character delivering a humorous speech or monologue, often with satire or parody.

Prankster comedy - a plot that involves practical jokes and humor at the expense of others.

Wit and banter - a plot that involves clever and witty dialogue, often with wordplay and sarcasm.

Running gags - a plot that involves recurring jokes or situations, often with escalating humor.

Western

Gunslinger - a plot that involves a skilled shooter or outlaw seeking redemption or justice.

Lawman - a plot that involves a law enforcement officer pursuing criminals and bringing them to justice.

Cattle drive - a plot that involves a group of cowboys driving a herd of cattle across long distances.

Revenge - a plot that involves a character seeking revenge against those who wronged them or their family.

Outlaw with a heart of gold - a plot that involves an outlaw with a moral code who takes on a noble cause.

Homesteader - a plot that involves a character settling and cultivating land in the frontier.

Duel - a plot that involves a one-on-one confrontation between two characters, often with guns or knives.

Train robbery - a plot that involves a group of bandits robbing a train of its cargo or passengers.

Gold rush - a plot that involves characters seeking wealth and fortune in the frontier, often through mining.

Indian wars - a plot that involves conflict between settlers and Native Americans, often with themes of racism and colonialism.

Saloon - a plot that involves characters gathering in a western-style bar, often with gambling and drinking.

Bounty hunter - a plot that involves a character pursuing and capturing fugitives for a reward.

Stagecoach - a plot that involves a group of characters traveling by stagecoach, often with danger and excitement along the way.

Showdown - a plot that involves a final confrontation between the hero and villain, often with high stakes.

Frontier justice - a plot that involves characters taking the law into their own hands, often with themes of vigilante justice.

Lone wanderer - a plot that involves a character traveling alone through the frontier, often with themes of isolation and survival.

Land conflict - a plot that involves characters fighting for ownership or control of land in the frontier.

Old west town - a plot that involves a character navigating life in a wild and lawless western town.

Rancher - a plot that involves a character managing a large ranch, often with themes of family and legacy.

Horseback chase - a plot that involves a chase scene on horseback, often with themes of pursuit and escape.

Dystopian.

Totalitarian government - a plot that involves a government or ruling power that has complete control over society and its citizens.

Oppressive society - a plot that involves a society that enforces strict rules and regulations on its citizens, often with extreme punishments for disobedience.

Rebel uprising - a plot that involves a group of rebels or revolutionaries who rise up against the ruling power.

Propaganda - a plot that involves the use of media and messaging to manipulate and control the population.

Social hierarchy - a plot that involves a society divided into social classes or castes, often with those at the bottom suffering the most.

Surveillance state - a plot that involves constant surveillance and monitoring of citizens by the ruling power.

Lack of personal freedom - a plot that involves citizens having limited or no personal freedoms, often with restrictions on speech, movement, and expression.

Environmental disaster - a plot that involves a society struggling to survive in the aftermath of an environmental catastrophe.

Post-apocalyptic world - a plot that involves a society trying to survive after a global disaster, such as a nuclear war or pandemic.

Dystopian love story - a plot that involves a romance set in a dystopian world, often with themes of forbidden love and societal restrictions.

Totalitarian leader - a plot that involves a single leader who holds absolute power over society.

Brainwashing - a plot that involves the use of psychological manipulation to control the population.

Genetic engineering - a plot that involves the manipulation of genetics and biology to create a new type of human or animal.

Rebellion leader - a plot that involves a charismatic leader who inspires and leads the rebellion against the ruling power.

Resistance movement - a plot that involves a group of individuals fighting against the ruling power, often through acts of sabotage and rebellion.

Corrupt government - a plot that involves a government that is corrupt and self-serving, often at the expense of the citizens.

Apocalyptic event - a plot that involves a catastrophic event that threatens the survival of humanity.

Oppressive technology - a plot that involves the use of advanced technology to control and manipulate citizens.

Civil war - a plot that involves a society torn apart by a conflict between factions or groups.

Protagonist as symbol of hope - a plot that involves a protagonist who becomes a symbol of hope for the oppressed and downtrodden citizens.

While I've only listed 20 common tropes found in these genres, there are actually many more out there waiting for you to discover! A quick Google search can help you track down all sorts of interesting and unique tropes to use in your writing.

Target Audience

It's important to understand who your book's target audience is, as it allows you to write a book that connects with them on a deeper level. Your target audience is the group of people who are most likely to enjoy your book, find it valuable, and recommend it to others. By writing with your target audience in mind, you can ensure that your book is relevant to their interests, speaks to their needs, and is more likely to be successful. After all, when you connect with your readers, you create a powerful bond that can make them lifelong fans of your work.

If you've already decided on your genres, sub-genres, and tropes, finding your target audience is a breeze. All you have to do is a quick Google search and voila! However, to help you out, I can provide you with some general information on target audiences. Do keep in mind that this information is not set in stone, as everyone's interests differ. For instance, plenty women enjoy thrillers, action stories, or horror. Nonetheless, this outline can serve as a starting point for your research.

Young Adult:

Genres: Fantasy, dystopian, contemporary, romance

Tropes: Coming-of-age, love triangles, chosen one, forbidden love, adventure

Themes: Identity, self-discovery, social justice, belonging, family, friendship, first love, mental health

Needs: Relatable characters, emotional resonance, accessible language, diverse representation, empowerment

Adult:

Genres: Mystery, thriller, romance, historical fiction, literary fiction

Tropes: Second chance at love, redemption, suspense, revenge, secrets and lies, unreliable narrators, twists and turns, complex relationships

Themes: Love and relationships, societal issues, personal growth, identity, history, culture, family dynamics, Love and loss

Needs: Engaging plot, well-developed characters, nuanced themes, evocative language, diverse representation

Middle-grade:

Genres: Adventure, fantasy, science fiction, historical fiction, humor, contemporary

Tropes: Overcoming obstacles, friendship, finding one's place, underdogs, magic

Themes: Family, friendship, self-discovery, perseverance, identity, problem-solving, Self-acceptance, courage, teamwork

Needs: Engaging plot, relatable characters, age-appropriate language, adventure and humor, positive messaging

Children:

Genres: Picture books, early readers, chapter books

Tropes: Animals as main characters, imaginative worlds, humor, adventure, family relationships, lessons learned

Themes: Family, friendship, growing up, learning new things, self-expression, empathy, problem-solving, diversity, kindness

Needs: Simple language, colorful illustrations, engaging storytelling, relatable characters, age-appropriate messaging

Women:

Genres: Romance, mystery, historical fiction, women's fiction, contemporary fiction, literary fiction

Tropes: Second chance at love, forbidden love, strong female lead, enemies-to-lovers, happily-ever-after, family secrets

Themes: Love and relationships, family, personal growth, empowerment, sisterhood, identity

Needs: Emotional resonance, well-rounded characters, diverse representation, nuanced themes, satisfying endings

Men:

Genres: Thriller, science fiction, fantasy, action/adventure, historical fiction

Tropes: Action-packed, gritty, hero's journey, good vs. evil, moral dilemmas, Tough-guy heroes, high stakes, intricate plots, historical accuracy

Themes: Honor, justice, redemption, brotherhood, duty, perseverance

Needs: Engaging plot, well-researched historical details, realistic action, diverse representation, nuanced themes

LGBTQ+:

Genres: LGBTQ+ romance, coming-of-age, drama, contemporary fiction, young adult, literary fiction, speculative fiction

Tropes: Coming out, forbidden love, self-acceptance, exploring sexuality, found family, overcoming prejudice, love conquers all

Themes: Identity, discrimination, love and relationships, acceptance, self-discovery, community

Needs: Authentic representation, diverse characters and experiences, nuanced portrayal of LGBTQ+ issues, positive messaging, happy endings

Seniors:

Genres: Historical fiction, literary fiction, memoir, mystery, romance

Tropes: Second chance at love, reflection on past mistakes, family drama, secrets and lies

Themes: Aging, family, legacy, life lessons, reflection, personal growth.

Needs: Thoughtful themes, well-rounded characters, evocative language, diverse representation, positive messaging

Note: "Nuanced" means that something is complex and has many different parts or aspects that make it unique. It's not just one simple thing, but has layers and details that make it more interesting and complicated. For example, a nuanced character in a book might have both good and bad qualities, and their personality and behavior might change depending on the situation they're in.

Here are some example's of nuanced themes:

Love and loss: exploring the complex emotions surrounding love and loss, such as grief, regret, and nostalgia.

Identity and belonging: examining the struggle to find one's place in the world and how our sense of self is shaped by our experiences and relationships.

Power and corruption: exploring the abuse of power and how it can corrupt individuals and institutions.

Morality and ethics: examining the gray areas of morality and the difficult choices we face when navigating right and wrong.

Mental health: exploring the complexities of mental health and how it impacts individuals and their relationships.

Social justice: examining issues of inequality, discrimination, and systemic oppression, and the need for change.

Cultural differences: exploring the nuances of different cultures and the challenges and benefits of navigating those differences.

Nature and the environment: examining the relationship between humans and nature, and the impact of human behavior on the environment.

Family and relationships: exploring the complexities of family dynamics and relationships, including love, loyalty, and betrayal.

Aging and mortality: examining the process of aging and the impact of mortality on individuals and their loved ones.

Starting to plot your novel is an exciting step, and choosing your genre, trope, and target audience are vital for laying the groundwork of your story. But it's important not to overlook other essential elements that can elevate your story to the next level. For example, have you thought about how you want your readers to feel when they read your book, or what you want them to learn? These questions can help you create a more impactful and meaningful story that resonates with your readers.

As an author, you likely have a specific purpose in mind when crafting your story. Whether you aim to entertain, convey a message, or educate your readers, it's important to consider the intended impact on your audience. To achieve your creative goals, you'll need to pay attention to key elements like plot, characters, setting, and themes, and ensure they work cohesively to create an engaging and immersive experience.

For readers, understanding the author's intent can enhance their appreciation of the story and lead to a more fulfilling reading experience. By recognizing the impact and meaning behind the words on the page, you can fully immerse yourself in the story and gain a deeper understanding of the author's message. So whether you're a writer or a reader, don't forget to consider the impact of your words and how they can connect with your audience.

Authors can convey various messages, lessons, and ideas through fictional writing. Here are a few examples:

Moral lessons: Fictional stories often have a moral lesson or message that the author wants to convey to the reader. The story may illustrate the consequences of certain actions or behaviors, and the characters may learn a valuable lesson by the end of the story.

Social commentary: Fictional stories can also be used to comment on social issues such as inequality, discrimination, or injustice. By using characters and situations that are relatable to readers, authors can help readers better understand and empathize with these issues.

Emotional connections: Through fictional writing, authors can help readers connect emotionally with the characters and situations in the story. This can help readers develop greater empathy and understanding of others in real life.

Imagination and creativity: Fictional writing can inspire readers to use their imagination and think creatively. Through vivid descriptions and imaginative storytelling, authors can transport readers to new and exciting worlds.

Personal growth: Fictional writing can also help readers learn more about themselves and their own values and beliefs. By exploring different characters and situations, readers can gain new perspectives and insights that can help them grow and develop as individuals.

I understand that all of this might sound a bit overwhelming and challenging, but please don't worry! If you're writing solely for the purpose of entertaining your readers and don't have any specific message to convey, you can simply skip this part when creating your novel outline. Don't feel obligated to include elements that you're not comfortable with, and focus on creating a story that you enjoy telling.

By the way, I'd like to share with you some examples of popular stories and their authors that effectively convey certain messages or teach valuable lessons through their fictional writing:

"To Kill a Mockingbird" by Harper Lee - This story teaches the importance of empathy, justice, and standing up for what is right.

"1984" by George Orwell - This dystopian novel warns about the dangers of totalitarianism and the importance of preserving individual freedom.

"The Handmaid's Tale" by Margaret Atwood - This dystopian novel warns about the dangers of patriarchal oppression and the importance of women's rights.

"The Lord of the Rings" by J.R.R. Tolkien - This epic fantasy novel teaches the importance of courage, loyalty, and sacrifice in the face of great evil.

"The Great Gatsby" by F. Scott Fitzgerald - This story critiques the superficiality and moral decay of the wealthy during the Roaring Twenties.

"Animal Farm" by George Orwell - This allegorical novel satirizes the rise of Soviet communism and warns about the dangers of political corruption and propaganda.

"Brave New World" by Aldous Huxley - This dystopian novel warns about the dangers of technological advancement and the dehumanization of society.

"The Catcher in the Rye" by J.D. Salinger - This story explores the themes of alienation, identity, and the struggle to find meaning in a world that can often seem cold and indifferent.

"The Color Purple" by Alice Walker - This story explores themes of race, gender, and the struggle for personal autonomy and self-determination in a society that seeks to deny these things.

"The Hunger Games" by Suzanne Collins - This dystopian novel critiques the excesses of consumer culture and warns about the dangers of totalitarianism and oppression.

Plot

Great job! We've completed the first part of outlining a basic novel. Now, let's move on to plotting. But wait a minute! Before you start plotting, there's some information we need first - your intended word count. This may sound like a small detail, but it's actually quite important. Knowing the total word count of your story can affect many things. For instance, publishers often have guidelines for the length of novels they will accept, so if your manuscript is too long or too short, it may be rejected. Additionally, readers may have certain expectations for the length of a novel in a specific genre, and if your book is significantly shorter or longer than expected, it may not be well-received. Lastly, the word count can influence the pacing and structure of your novel, with longer novels potentially allowing for more complex plot and character development, but requiring more attention to pacing and structure to avoid losing the reader's interest.

You might be thinking, "Hey, Taytjie, what if I want to post a web novel with over 1000 chapters? Do I have to plot everything in advance?" Well, my answer is no! However, I do recommend thinking of a web novel as a series of books, each with its own volume, rather than a single, massive work. So when plotting your web novel, it's best to approach each volume individually. This will make it easier to organize your ideas and create a cohesive story that engages your readers. Each 'Arc' of your web novel can be an individual volume of around 10 to 30 chapters or more, it's up to your preference.

Let me offer you a general guideline for word counts, but keep in mind that variations may exist based on factors such as sub-genre, target audience, and publishing goals. If traditional publishing is what you're aiming for, then different publishers may have different expectations. However, it's worth noting that while you don't have to stick to these word counts, readers typically expect them in the genres I've discussed in this post. Ultimately, what matters most is that your story is engaging and well-crafted, and if you achieve that, your readers will be hooked no matter the word count.

Romance: 50,000 to 90,000 words

Mystery: 70,000 to 100,000 words

Science fiction: 80,000 to 120,000 words

Fantasy: 80,000 to 120,000 words

Historical fiction: 80,000 to 120,000 words

Thriller: 80,000 to 100,000 words

Horror: 70,000 to 100,000 words

Young adult: 50,000 to 80,000 words

Literary fiction: 80,000 to 120,000 words

Comedy: 70,000 to 100,000 words

Western: 50,000 to 80,000 words

Dystopian: 80,000 to 120,000 words

You might be wondering why we're discussing word count under the 'plot' section instead of the 'book information' section. Well, it's because knowing your intended word count will help you figure out how many chapters your story will have. This, in turn, will affect your plot, as it gives you an idea of how much time you have to tell your story and how much you'll need to stretch it out.

Now it's time to decide on the number of chapters and the length of each chapter for your novel. To determine the chapter length, think about how many words you want to include in each chapter and use that to calculate the total number of chapters required to reach your desired word count for the whole story.

After figuring out the number of chapters, it's time to work on the plot. Don't worry, it doesn't have to be a lengthy essay, just a brief two-sentence summary will do. The main thing is to have a clear idea of what your story will be about.

Here's an example:

In a world of magic and intrigue, a young wizard falls in love with a powerful sorceress from a rival clan. Together, they must navigate the dangerous politics of their respective societies while discovering the true depth of their feelings for each other.

Alright, great job so far! Now let's dig a little deeper and focus on the beginning, middle, and end of your story. What's going to happen at the start to draw your readers in? What twists and turns will take place in the middle? And finally, how do you want it all to wrap up in the end?

Start: The story begins in a magical world filled with warring clans and powerful sorcerers. Our protagonist, a young wizard, is training at the academy of his clan when he meets a beautiful sorceress from a rival clan. Despite the tensions between their clans, they are drawn to each other and begin to secretly meet.

Middle: As their relationship deepens, our young couple finds themselves caught up in the dangerous politics of their respective societies. They struggle to keep their love a secret, while also trying to navigate the treacherous waters of their clans' rivalries. Along the way, they uncover a plot by a dark force that threatens both their clans and must work together to stop it.

End: In the climax of the story, our young wizard and sorceress face their greatest challenge yet. They must put aside their differences and unite their clans to defeat the dark force that threatens them all. Through their bravery and dedication, they prove that love can conquer even the most formidable foes. In the end, our young couple is able to come together openly and publicly, ushering in a new era of peace and prosperity for their people.

Congratulations, we've made progress! Now it's time to take our plot and start breaking it down into individual chapters. Think about the key events that need to happen in each chapter to move the story forward and write them down.

Chapter 1: Our young wizard protagonist meets the powerful sorceress from a rival clan and is immediately drawn to her.

Chapter 2: Our couple shares their first magical moment together, but the looming threat of their clans' rivalry casts a shadow over their happiness.

Chapter 3: Our wizard protagonist confides in his best friend about his feelings for the sorceress, but is warned about the dangers of falling in love with someone from a rival clan.

Chapter 4: The sorceress reveals that she feels the same way, and the couple begins to meet in secret.

Chapter 5: The first major conflict arises when our wizard protagonist's clan discovers his relationship with the sorceress and forbids him from seeing her.

Chapter 6: The sorceress' clan also discovers their relationship and the two clans begin to escalate their hostility towards each other.

Chapter 7: The couple's secret meetings become riskier as they try to find a way to be together without causing a war between their clans.

Chapter 8: A powerful sorcerer from our wizard protagonist's clan threatens the couple and warns them to end their relationship.

Chapter 9: Our protagonist turns to an older, wiser wizard for advice on how to navigate the dangerous politics of their clans.

Chapter 10: Our couple is caught in a dangerous ambush by members of the sorceress' clan who disapprove of their relationship.

Chapter 11: The sorceress' clan accuses our wizard protagonist of using dark magic to seduce her and threatens to retaliate.

Chapter 12: The couple decides to seek refuge in a neutral territory and try to find a way to resolve the conflict peacefully.

Chapter 13: Our protagonist discovers a sinister plot by a dark force that threatens both clans and realizes that they must work together to stop it.

Chapter 14: The couple's efforts to bring their clans together are met with resistance and suspicion from both sides.

Chapter 15: Our wizard protagonist and the sorceress embark on a dangerous mission to uncover the dark force's plans.

Chapter 16: The couple faces their greatest challenge yet as they confront the dark force and its powerful minions.

Chapter 17: Our couple must fight for their lives as they face overwhelming odds, but their love gives them the strength to prevail.

Chapter 18: The couple is hailed as heroes for saving their clans from the dark force, but their victory comes at a great cost.

Chapter 19: Our couple is finally able to publicly declare their love for each other, and their clans agree to a truce.

Chapter 20: The novel ends with our couple looking forward to a future together, as they embark on a new journey filled with hope and promise.

Great job! Now, for the final step: take each chapter and create a bullet-pointed outline of what you want to happen in it. This will help make your life easier when you begin writing the actual story because you'll already know what you need to write, and you just need to turn it into beautiful prose. But, Yes there is a but, If you just like to let the creative juices flow and don't want to write so rigidly, like I do, skip it. I personally just write the one or two sentences for my chapter when I build an outline, and then I just go for it.

Chapter One: A Meeting of Hearts

The chapter opens with our young wizard protagonist, whose name is Aaron, attending his morning training session at the wizard academy. During a break, Aaron wanders off into the forest for some quiet reflection and stumbles upon a clearing filled with glowing mushrooms. As he investigates the mushrooms, Aaron is startled by a rustling in the nearby bushes and turns to see a young woman emerge. The young woman introduces herself as Lyra, a powerful sorceress from a rival clan. Despite the tensions between their clans, Aaron and Lyra are immediately drawn to each other and begin to chat. Aaron discovers that Lyra is at the academy to research a powerful spell that could help her clan in their ongoing conflict with Aaron's clan. Aaron offers to help Lyra with her research, and they agree to meet secretly to work on the spell together. As Aaron leaves the clearing, he realizes that he is falling for Lyra and wonders how he will be able to reconcile his feelings with his loyalty to his clan. The chapter ends with Aaron returning to the academy, his thoughts consumed by thoughts of Lyra and the dangerous path they are embarking on.

By the way, in case you were wondering, the story we've been working on is a fantasy romance. Once you've completed outlining each chapter, congratulations, you've successfully outlined your novel! Now, let's move on to the next step: creating characters. You might be wondering why I saved this for after the plot section instead of before, but everyone has their own approach. Personally, I like to create my characters as I'm outlining my novel and really flesh them out while writing my first draft. Then, I use my second draft to make sure that the characters remain consistent throughout the book.

Characters

We've made it to the last section of our basic outline! As a writer, I prefer to develop my characters alongside my plot rather than before it. I start with some basic character details and adjust them as needed to fit the story. Sometimes, characters I initially thought were essential end up being cut, while others I created on a whim end up becoming integral to the plot. For example, in my current work in progress, I created a childhood friend of the main character on a whim, but he ended up becoming an antagonist who will go through a redemption arc and a friends-to-enemies-to-friends trope.

When it comes to creating your characters, there are some essential details you'll want to have nailed down. But don't worry, it's not necessary to have everything figured out until you finish your first draft. Just make sure you have all the important information for your main characters sorted out by the time you start working on your second draft. It's crucial to make sure your characters remain consistent throughout the story and that their actions and thoughts align with their established traits. After all, you don't want to project your own desires onto them - that's not good writing.

When it comes to creating your characters, there are some basic details you'll want to include, like their name and a brief history that matches their personality. For example, it might not make sense for a character with a tragic past to be overly optimistic and carefree all the time, not unless they're pretending.

List a few key traits that define your character's personality, such as being gruff yet secretly caring or sarcastic and cold. You don't need to create a whole resume, just a few words will do. As you write, you might find yourself adding more details to your character's personality, habits, or preferences, so make sure to jot them down.

Another important aspect is their appearance. Decide on this early on and make sure to note it down. You don't want to have to search through all your chapters to remember what your own character looks like! These are the basics, but there are three more things I want to mention that can help flesh out your character even more.

Outer conflict

Outer conflict is basically the challenges and hurdles that a character faces in their environment. It plays a significant role in the story as it generates suspense and propels the plot forward. The external obstacles that a character can encounter are diverse and varied, like dealing with natural disasters, social norms, cultural differences, achieving goals, or fighting against an adversary.

Moreover, the outer conflict can help to shape a character's personality and traits. As the character copes with and conquers obstacles, readers get to know their strengths, weaknesses, and motivations. This allows readers to form a deeper connection with the character and become more invested in their journey.

Furthermore, external conflicts can also symbolize inner turmoil. The external obstacles that a character faces can be a representation of the internal struggles they are going through, like battling fears or doubts. This creates a powerful emotional impact on readers and helps to convey crucial themes and messages.

Here are twenty examples of outer conflict:

A character struggling to survive in a post-apocalyptic world.

A character facing a physical illness or disability that limits their abilities.

A character fighting for justice against a corrupt system or organization.

A character facing discrimination or prejudice based on their race, gender, or other identity.

A character trying to escape a dangerous situation or person.

A character facing environmental or natural disasters.

A character navigating a war or political conflict.

A character struggling with addiction or substance abuse.

A character facing financial ruin or bankruptcy.

A character dealing with the aftermath of a traumatic event.

A character struggling to balance their personal and professional lives.

A character facing a difficult decision that could have major consequences.

A character in a survival situation in the wilderness or at sea.

A character trying to break free from a toxic relationship.

A character dealing with the consequences of a mistake or poor decision.

A character facing a physical or mental challenge or disability.

A character struggling to protect their family or loved ones from harm.

A character trying to survive in a hostile or unfamiliar environment.

A character dealing with the loss of a loved one or grieving.

A character facing betrayal or deception from someone they trust.

Inner Conflict

Inner conflict is a crucial element of a story that delves into the psychological and emotional struggles that a character experiences. It's the battle between their desires and their values, their fears and aspirations, or what they want versus what they know is right. This struggle is what creates tension, complexity, and depth in a character, making them more relatable and interesting to readers. By exploring the character's inner conflict, readers gain insights into their motives, thoughts, and emotions, allowing for character development and growth.

Take J.D. Salinger's "The Catcher in the Rye" for instance, where Holden Caulfield grapples with an inner conflict of wanting to preserve the innocence of childhood and yet desiring to mature and grow up. This conflict leads to his erratic behavior and search for meaning and purpose.

Similarly, in F. Scott Fitzgerald's "The Great Gatsby," Jay Gatsby faces an inner conflict of wanting to win back his lost love, Daisy, while also grappling with the fact that she is married to someone else. This inner conflict ultimately leads to his downfall and tragic end.

As demonstrated in these examples, inner conflict drives the plot, develops characters, and adds depth to their motivations and struggles.

Here are 20 examples of inner conflict:

Fear of failure

Insecurity

Lack of self-confidence

Difficulty making decisions

Guilt over past actions

Jealousy or envy

Grief over loss or trauma

Difficulty with vulnerability or trust

Struggle with addiction or temptation

Confusion over personal identity or purpose

Struggle with one's own morality or ethics

Difficulty with forgiveness or letting go

Shame over past actions or experiences

Struggle with self-acceptance or self-love

Difficulty with emotional intimacy or connection

Conflict with personal beliefs or values

Struggle with one's own mortality or purpose in life

Difficulty with facing the truth or reality of a situation

Struggle with balancing personal desires with the needs of others

Conflict between personal ambition and loyalty to others.

As a writer, it's important to understand how to weave outer and inner conflict together to create a compelling and multidimensional character in your story. Outer conflict provides the external challenges and obstacles that the character must face and overcome, driving the plot forward. On the other hand, inner conflict gives readers a window into the character's thoughts, feelings, and motivations.

The two types of conflict can also inform and influence each other. Inner conflict can affect how a character responds to outer conflict, and vice versa. For instance, if a character is struggling with self-doubt, this may make it harder for them to face a physical challenge presented as an outer conflict. Similarly, if a character is facing an outer conflict like a life-threatening situation, this may trigger an inner conflict related to their deepest fears and desires. The interplay between inner and outer conflict can lead to character growth, as the character learns to face their fears, confront their weaknesses, and achieve their goals.

By using both types of conflict effectively, you can create a character that is not only relatable and interesting, but also one that readers can root for as they navigate the challenges of your story.

Here is a list of 28 ways outer and inner conflict can interplay with each other:

A character with a fear of failure (inner conflict) must overcome obstacles to achieve their goal (outer conflict).

A character struggling with addiction (inner conflict) must face consequences of their behavior that endanger their loved ones (outer conflict).

A character dealing with trust issues (inner conflict) must work with a partner they don't trust (outer conflict).

A character struggling with guilt (inner conflict) must clear their name and prove their innocence (outer conflict).

A character struggling with self-doubt (inner conflict) must take on a leadership role to save their community (outer conflict).

A character who is closed-off emotionally (inner conflict) must learn to trust and open up to their love interest (outer conflict).

A character with a tendency to control others (inner conflict) must learn to work in a team and share responsibility (outer conflict).

A character struggling with their identity (inner conflict) must navigate a world that doesn't accept their identity (outer conflict).

A character dealing with trauma (inner conflict) must confront the source of their trauma to overcome it (outer conflict).

A character struggling with commitment issues (inner conflict) must make a difficult decision that affects their relationship (outer conflict).

A character with a lack of self-worth (inner conflict) must prove to themselves and others that they are capable (outer conflict).

A character struggling with loss (inner conflict) must learn to move on and find purpose in life again (outer conflict).

A character with a need for control (inner conflict) must learn to let go and trust others (outer conflict).

A character dealing with past mistakes (inner conflict) must confront those they have wronged and seek redemption (outer conflict).

A character struggling with their beliefs (inner conflict) must stand up for what they believe in despite opposition (outer conflict).

A character who is closed off from the world (inner conflict) must open up and make new connections to achieve their goal (outer conflict).

A character struggling with a lack of direction (inner conflict) must find purpose in their life and pursue it (outer conflict).

A character with a history of abuse (inner conflict) must confront their abuser to achieve closure (outer conflict).

A character struggling with their sexuality (inner conflict) must come out and face the social consequences of their identity (outer conflict).

A character with a need for revenge (inner conflict) must overcome their desire for revenge to achieve a greater goal (outer conflict).

A character struggling with their family history (inner conflict) must confront the past to move forward (outer conflict).

A character with a fear of the unknown (inner conflict) must step out of their comfort zone to achieve their goal (outer conflict).

A character struggling with their past (inner conflict) must come to terms with it in order to move forward (outer conflict).

A character with a lack of trust in others (inner conflict) must work with a team to achieve their goal (outer conflict).

A character struggling with their identity (inner conflict) must confront the expectations of others to find their true self (outer conflict).

A character with a tendency to self-sabotage (inner conflict) must overcome their negative patterns to achieve success (outer conflict).

A character struggling with mental illness (inner conflict) must overcome the stigma associated with their illness (outer conflict).

A character with a need for control (inner conflict) must learn to accept and adapt to unforeseen circumstances (outer conflict).

Character Growth

As a story progresses, the characters within it can undergo a significant transformation that we refer to as character growth. This growth can manifest itself in various ways, including changes in beliefs, values, behaviors, or relationships.

By portraying a character's growth, a writer can create a sense of depth and nuance that makes them more relatable and interesting to the reader. Furthermore, character growth is instrumental in driving the plot forward, as the changes experienced by the character often create new conflicts and challenges that must be addressed.

Witnessing a character's growth can be satisfying to the reader, providing them with a sense of catharsis as they watch the character overcome their obstacles and achieve their goals.

Character growth is crucial to the success of a story, and as a writer, it's important to ensure that your main characters evolve and change over the course of the narrative. People naturally experience growth and change in real life, whether it's positive or negative, as they navigate through life's challenges. The same principle applies to your characters.

When you're editing your second or third draft, take a close look at your characters and ensure that their development is evident. Keeping your characters stagnant and unchanged throughout the story isn't realistic and can hinder your reader's connection with them. By allowing your characters to evolve, you create a more relatable and believable story, one that resonates with readers and keeps them engaged until the end.

Here are some examples of good character growth in stories:

Katniss Everdeen in "The Hunger Games" by Suzanne Collins learns to trust others and become a leader.

Elizabeth Bennet in "Pride and Prejudice" by Jane Austen learns to let go of her prejudices and pride and become more empathetic towards others.

Harry Potter in "Harry Potter" series by J.K. Rowling learns to face his fears and take responsibility for his actions.

Frodo Baggins in "The Lord of the Rings" by J.R.R. Tolkien learns to sacrifice his own desires for the greater good.

Elinor Dashwood in "Sense and Sensibility" by Jane Austen learns to express her emotions and become more open.

Holden Caulfield in "The Catcher in the Rye" by J.D. Salinger learns to let go of his cynicism and find a sense of hope.

Ponyboy Curtis in "The Outsiders" by S.E. Hinton learns to appreciate the value of family and friends.

Scout Finch in "To Kill a Mockingbird" by Harper Lee learns to see the world from other people's perspectives and become more tolerant.

Andy Dufresne in "The Shawshank Redemption" by Stephen King learns to never give up hope and find redemption.

Hester Prynne in "The Scarlet Letter" by Nathaniel Hawthorne learns to stand up for herself and live on her own terms.

Jean Valjean in "Les Misérables" by Victor Hugo learns to find forgiveness and redemption through selflessness.

Atticus Finch in "To Kill a Mockingbird" by Harper Lee learns to fight for justice and become a role model for his children.

Bilbo Baggins in "The Hobbit" by J.R.R. Tolkien learns to step out of his comfort zone and embrace adventure.

Sydney Carton in "A Tale of Two Cities" by Charles Dickens learns to find a sense of purpose and redemption through self-sacrifice.

John Proctor in "The Crucible" by Arthur Miller learns to stand up for his beliefs and fight for what is right.

Scarlett O'Hara in "Gone with the Wind" by Margaret Mitchell learns to become more self-reliant and resourceful.

Charles Ryder in "Brideshead Revisited" by Evelyn Waugh learns to find a sense of meaning and purpose in life.

Captain Ahab in "Moby-Dick" by Herman Melville learns to confront his own obsession and find a sense of closure.

Marianne Dashwood in "Sense and Sensibility" by Jane Austen learns to find a balance between emotional and rational thinking.

Scout in "Go Set a Watchman" by Harper Lee learns to see her father, Atticus Finch, as a human being and understand his flaws.

Great news, you made it to the end of the basic novel outline! This is all you need to get started on writing your novel, and I'm excited for you to begin. Let's quickly recap what you'll need for your outline: a genre and sub-genre, a trope, a target audience, a word count, a chapter count, a two-sentence plot description, a more detailed plot description that covers the beginning, middle, and end of your story, and a chapter-by-chapter outline. For your characters, you'll need to include their names, brief histories, physical descriptions, personalities, outer conflicts, inner conflicts, and character growth. Once you have all of this information, you'll be ready to start writing your novel. Congratulations again, and happy writing!

Next up we'll be going into a bit more detail that focuses on world-building for fantasy or science fiction stories, anything that requires deeper world-building than a romance or regular modern paranormal fiction.

Going on from here, I won't be as detailed with explanations, what I'll be providing is mostly just information you need to get and it doesn't involve much hard research.

Races

Physical Traits:

Physical traits can play a huge role in creating unique and memorable fantasy races. By giving a race its own set of distinctive physical features, an author can make it stand out from other races and help it come to life within the story.

But physical traits aren't just about making a race look cool or interesting - they can also inform other aspects of a race's culture and history, making the story even more immersive and engaging. For example, a race with wings might have a rich history of flight, while a race with a natural resistance to fire might have developed unique technologies or traditions to harness that ability.

Religion:

Have you ever thought about the role of religion in a fantasy world? In many cases, it can provide a sense of depth and purpose to a race's way of life. Religion can shape everything from their beliefs and values to their traditions and customs, and even affect their interactions with other races and their environment.

By incorporating religion into your world-building, you can create a rich tapestry of different beliefs and practices that can help to shape the personalities of your characters. Whether it's through the way they approach challenges or the values they hold dear, religion can be a powerful tool for creating a unique and engaging fantasy race.

Here are something to think on while creating religions:

Deities and Mythology A. Different gods and goddesses B. Creation myths and legends C. Supernatural forces and entities

Religious Institutions A. Temples, shrines, and other holy sites B. Religious leaders and hierarchies C. Religious ceremonies and rituals

Beliefs and Values A. Moral and ethical codes B. Attitudes towards magic and other supernatural elements C. Relationship between religion and politics, culture, and society

Religious Conflict and Cooperation A. Religious differences and conflicts B. Religious tolerance and cooperation C. How religion impacts relationships and diplomacy between different societies

Culture:

Do you love exploring imaginary worlds filled with magic and wonder? If so, you'll know that culture plays a huge role in bringing these fantastic places to life. In a fantasy world, culture encompasses everything from shared beliefs and customs to art and social practices. By creating unique and vibrant cultures for each race and society, we can make these worlds feel alive and believable.

To craft a compelling culture for a fantasy world, we need to take into account many factors, such as the geography and climate of the world, the history and mythology of its inhabitants, and their level of technology. For example, if a society lives in a cold, mountainous region, they might have adapted their clothing and transportation to suit their environment.

In a well-crafted fantasy world, each race and society should have its own distinct culture that enriches the story and makes it more immersive. From the way they view concepts like honor and loyalty to the way they celebrate holidays and mark significant life events

Things to think on while creating cultures:

Beliefs and Values A. Religious and spiritual beliefs B. Moral and ethical values C. Attitudes towards magic and other supernatural elements

Social Structure A. Different classes and social groups B. Power dynamics and hierarchies C. Customs and traditions related to marriage, family, and social interaction

Art and Aesthetics A. Literature, music, and art B. Fashion and clothing styles C. Architectural and design styles

Technology and Industry A. Tools and weapons B. Transportation and communication C. Economic systems and trade

Language:

Language plays a crucial role in creating immersive and believable worlds. Language shapes the way people interact with each other and their environment, and can reflect the history, mythology, and values of a particular race or society.

In a well-crafted fantasy world, each race or society should have its own unique language or languages. This adds depth and complexity to the world, with the creation of new words, phrases, and even alphabets to reflect each race's unique linguistic characteristics.

Language can also be used to explore themes and ideas central to the story. For instance, the language used by those in power may reflect the power dynamic and make it difficult for the commoners to understand. In addition, language can create a sense of mystery and otherness. A completely invented language can make a fantasy race feel alien and distinct.

Furthermore, language can be used as a storytelling device, with characters translating between languages or struggling to communicate with other races. This can create tension, conflict, and opportunities for characters to learn about different cultures and deepen their understanding of the world around them.

Keep in mind that not every fantasy world or story needs detailed languages. If you prefer not to include them, that's okay too! However, if you're interested in exploring languages in your story, here are some factors to consider.

Language Families A. Different language families and their characteristics B. Historical and cultural factors influencing language development C. How languages relate to one another

Written and Spoken Languages A. Different writing systems and their evolution B. Spoken language and dialects C. How language shapes communication and relationships

Language Acquisition and Learning A. How characters learn new languages B. Cultural attitudes towards language learning C. The role of language in education and society

Translation and Interpretation A. How characters translate and interpret languages B. The challenges of language barriers C. The importance of accurate translation in diplomacy and trade

Magic

Having mystical abilities such as magic, mana, or superpowers can add excitement and intrigue to your story, but it's important to be mindful of how you use them. Many writers fall into the trap of creating limitless magical powers for their characters, which can make the story feel unrealistic and unsatisfying. To avoid this, it's helpful to answer a few questions about your magic system.

First, how does it work? It's important to understand the ins and outs of your magic system so that you can write your characters using it realistically. Knowing the mechanics of your magic system will prevent you from simply having your character magically power up in a crucial moment to get out of a tough situation.

Second, who can have it? Is there a criteria for who can use the magic or powers? Understanding why certain characters have magical abilities will prevent you from creating random characters that have the ability, and will also give your readers more information about your characters.

Third, what are the rules and limitations? Are there rules in your world about how the magic system should and should not be used? Are there physical limitations to what your characters can do? Setting rules and limitations will stop you from overpowering your character and will add conflict and tension to your story.

Additionally, it's important to consider how the general population feels about magic. Are there people who are against it, who hunt or experiment on those who possess it? Are magical individuals adored or seen as gods? Understanding how your world views magic will add depth and complexity to your story and create opportunities for conflict and tension. By considering these factors, you can create a well-rounded and engaging magic system that adds to the richness of your fantasy world. Here is a summery and some additional facts to think on when creating a magic system:

Types of Magic A. Elemental magic B. Divine magic C. Necromancy and dark magic D. Witchcraft and sorcery

Magic Mechanics A. How magic works in the world B. Limits and drawbacks to using magic C. How magic can be learned or inherited D. How magic can be controlled or regulated

Magic Users A. Different types of magic users B. Training and education for magic users C. Magic user communities and organizations

Magic in Society A. How magic impacts society and culture B. Magic in law and politics C. Magic in economics and trade

Magic in Conflict and Cooperation A. How magic can cause conflicts and tensions B. How magic can be used for diplomacy and alliances C. How magic can be used to resolve conflicts

History

Incorporating a world history into your story is an excellent way to add depth and richness to your world-building. By establishing a history, you can develop your world's cultures and religions, and intertwine it with your plot for added complexity. However, it's not necessary to have a history for the entire world's creation - just a basic overview of the setting where your story takes place is sufficient.

Another helpful aspect to include in your world-building is myths, lore, and major events that have shaped festivals or important days in your world. Additionally, highlighting significant historical figures can also provide valuable context for your story.

While it's not essential to introduce this information at the beginning of your story, it's a good idea to flesh out these details during revisions to ensure a cohesive and well-rounded world. This can help maintain consistency throughout your story and enhance the overall reading experience for your audience.

If you are creating an entire world history. Here are some things to think on:

Creation Myth and Cosmology A. Explanation of the world's creation myth B. Introduction of the cosmology of the world

Early Civilizations and Kingdoms A. The rise of early civilizations and kingdoms B. Development of early cultures and their impact on the world

Major Historical Events A. Wars and conflicts B. Great discoveries and inventions C. Natural disasters and calamities

Key Figures in History A. Heroes and heroines B. Villains and antagonists C. Leaders and rulers

Religion and Spirituality A. Explanation of the major religions and spiritual beliefs in the world B. Impact of religion and spirituality on world events and culture

Technology and Advancements A. Advancements in science and technology B. Development of new magic and spells

Current State of the World A. The current political and social situation in the world B. Ongoing conflicts and challenges C. Future possibilities for the world

Geography

Understanding the visual aspects of your story's setting is a valuable tool for crafting a rich and immersive world. By knowing the geography, you can better visualize how your characters will interact with their surroundings, what they'll wear, and what they'll eat. It can also play a major role in shaping the culture of the people inhabiting your world.

The geography of your world can even influence the physical characteristics of certain races, like those living near a volcano who may have tough, scaly skin to resist heat. Some key factors to consider when developing the geography of your world include the landscape, climate, weather patterns, natural resources, and the types of food available to your characters. These details can all work together to bring your world to life and make it feel like a fully-realized place with a unique identity.

Things to think on while creating your world geography:

Physical Features A. Landforms such as mountains, forests, and rivers B. Climate and weather patterns C. Natural resources and their distribution

Political Boundaries A. Different regions and territories B. Borders, boundaries, and conflicts C. How politics and culture influence geography

Cultural Landscapes A. Architecture and building styles B. Cultural and religious sites C. Impact of culture and history on the physical landscape

Mystical and Supernatural Features A. Magic and other supernatural elements B. Divine or cursed locations C. How these features shape the world

Politics

In the world of writing, it's easy to think that politics don't matter, especially when you're starting out. However, this is far from the truth. As you craft your story, there will come a point where your character will need to make a decision that affects the people around them. When others either agree or disagree with that decision, you're entering the realm of politics. In its simplest form, politics is all about how groups of people work together to make decisions and get things done. This can involve everything from choosing leaders and making laws to deciding how to use resources. In a fantasy world, politics can take on a different flavor. Different races and groups of creatures might be vying for control of territory or trying to gain power or fight for their rights.

The Players A. Different races and societies B. Leaders and powerful figures C. Factions, alliances, and conflicts

The Systems A. Government and governance B. Laws and regulations C. Use of magic and supernatural powers

The Issues A. Resource allocation B. Territorial disputes C. Power struggles and control

There are a lot of different factors that can affect politics in your fantasy world, and it's important to consider how your characters and societies will respond to them. Whether they're fighting for their rights, negotiating deals, or making compromises, the decisions they make will shape the world you're creating. So take some time to think about these things and how they'll impact your story

Technology

It's important to consider the level of advancement in your fantasy world. For example, if you're writing an old world fantasy kingdom, but there is technology present, your readers will likely be curious about where it came from, how it was developed, and who created it. Make sure to address these questions in your world-building

Here are some things to think on while working on technology for your world:

Types of Technology A. Explanation of various types of technology in the world B. Magic and technology: their relationship and interaction

Evolution of Technology A. The history of technology in the world B. Key figures and events that drove technological progress

The Creation and Distribution of Technology A. Who creates technology in the world B. How technology is distributed throughout the world C. Economic and social factors that impact technology development

The Impacts of Technology A. Positive and negative impacts of technology on society and culture B. Environmental impacts of technology

Limitations of Technology A. Constraints on technology development B. Limitations on the use of technology

Future of Technology A. Speculation on the future of technology in the world B. Potential implications for the world and its inhabitants

That's it! We are done! Cheers everyone! Great job on completing your detailed outline! Here's a recap of all the elements you should include: First, choose your genre, trope, target audience, and set a word and chapter count. Define your plot in 2-3 sentences, then expand it and break it down into beginning, middle, and end. Then create a chapter-by-chapter outline. For your characters, give them names, a brief history, physical descriptions, personality traits, conflicts, and character growth.

When it comes to world building, describe the geography and how it affects culture, politics, and history. Provide an overview of the various cultures, their practices and beliefs, and how they impact character interactions. Explain the political landscape, the systems, structures, and how they affect characters. Develop the world's history, including key events and figures that shaped it and how it affects the current state of the world.

Include an overview of the magical and technological systems in the world, how they interact, and their limitations and implications. Discuss the various religions, their beliefs and practices, and how they impact characters. Provide an overview of the languages spoken in the world and how they affect interactions between characters. Lastly, describe the various creatures and races in the world, their physical characteristics, cultural practices, and how they interact with each other and with humans.

For convenience, here is a scrivener template created with this style in mind and all the research is included in the template's resource folder. It's free, so don't stress and Download. Note that this is a google drive link. Simply Download and import into scrivener as a template.

Looking forward to seeing you again in the future! If you love fantasy, check out my free novel! HERE.

[nanowrimo]

Unlocking the 8 Secrets of Web Novels

If you’re looking to try something new this Camp NaNoWriMo, why not a web novel? Participant Eitan Estheim talks about what a web novel is and how to get started on your episodic writing adventure! The act of writing has been with us for a long time, but that doesn't prevent us from learning different ways to approach it, especially when we take advantage of the new technologies that are emerging.

Web novels (and their variants) are original stories that are published on the internet in chapters, instead of offering the finished product from the beginning. They resemble self-publishing because the author takes care of the entire process (writing, editing, publishing, promotion), and fanfiction because they maintain close contact with the readers.

Generally, authors usually offer their content for free on the internet. However, some authors will publish in advance on Patreon to offer incentives and get monthly paid subscriptions as if it were the Netflix of books.

I've been doing this for a while now and, although I don't have the impact of other writers, that hasn't stopped me from learning a lot in the process. With this in mind, I'm going to tell you what I’ve learned, both on my own and thanks to others.

1. Choose where to publish your web novel. Nowadays, there are several platforms such as Wattpad, Royal Road, Tapas or Kindle Vella, among many others. Some are more suitable for romance and contemporary stories, while others highlight fantasy or litRPG. Keep this in mind before deciding where you want to start.

2. Be prepared. Unlike other ways of publishing a book, a web series requires regular updates. This means you need to create content frequently. As a result, many authors choose to have several weeks of chapters prepared. This ensures they can continue publishing while writing the next chapters, along with all the additional tasks that this entails.

3. Be realistic with your time. Referring to the previous point, we need to take a moment to consider everything we must do: write new content, make sure it's in good condition for publication (editing), promote on social media, etc. Many of us have jobs and responsibilities, so we must be aware of how much we can accomplish each day.

4. Every story is unique. What works for one author may not work the same for another. Some decide to publish short chapters from Monday to Friday, while others prefer to do it once or twice a week. Consider your situation and learn as you go to figure out what works best for you.

5. Take care of yourself. If you push yourself too hard, both in external obligations and in your own projects, you will reach a point where you will exhaust yourself (and that's if you're lucky). Just like in life itself, prioritize your physical and mental health, fulfill your responsibilities, and give yourself the opportunity to write under the best possible conditions.

6. Share your story. Maybe you're like me and prefer to dedicate your time to writing, planning, and editing because that's what you enjoy the most. It's understandable, but how will you get others to read your work? Get moving! Use social media, Facebook groups, and other methods because if you want others to value your work, you must make them aware of it.

7. Find your balance. Just like in any other writing project, there will be times when you write less and dedicate more time to editing or preparation. You may have periods where you write less, but that doesn't mean your productivity is lower; it just means there are other equally important tasks you must perform. Finding the right balance will allow you to progress in your short, medium, and long-term projects.

8. Take care of your readers. Remember what I mentioned about Patreon? It's not only a way for authors to receive some compensation for their work, but they also offer incentives to their followers. Most choose to offer chapters in advance, but they can also provide exclusive access to Discord/Guilded servers, EPUB/PDF files to continue reading on other devices, unlimited scenes, and a variety of other things. Just think about what you would like to have as a reader, and I'm sure you'll come up with many ideas. All of us here know how complex and exhausting writing can be, regardless of the project we're working on. However, it's equally rewarding to see our story taking shape and sharing it as if it were our own TV series. You just need to mold it in the way you desire and keep on writing!

Eitan Estheim, a passionate web serial writer hailing from Spain, is a humble virtuoso of storytelling. From an early age, armed with nothing more than a trusty notebook, Eitan embarked on a literary journey fueled by lots of chocolate. His insatiable thirst for knowledge knows no bounds, as he tirelessly hones his craft to captivate readers. Eitan's web books, spanning fantastical realms and heartfelt LGBT dramas, written in Spanish and English, mark the beginning of his promising writing career. Follow his journey on Patreon! You can also visit his website, Tumblr, Instagram, or Pinterest. Photo by MART PRODUCTION from Pexels

[freebooter4ever]

Ok, during lunch i was goofing off by browsing the dat*ng app and came across a profile who 'liked' mine that was some blonde haired pretty boy with this as a tag line: "looking for the sophie to my howl". My heart flew into my throat....was i about to live out some teenage fantasy? I got incredibly excited until i realized with dawning horror that this dude possibly meant movie!sophie...

Full offense to the movie but the artists shaved off all the harsh edges on both sophie and howl to the point of unrecognizability beyond basic plot points. So anyone who is searching for the soft, gentle, pleasant version of sophie in the movie absolutely could not handle the slightly manic cleaning lady who enjoys bullying fire demons from the book. Book sophie is quite literally a bit of an obnoxious witch(with a b). She gets angry and expresses herself by murdering weeds. She enjoys teasing howl mercilessly. She gets panic attacks and wears the curse around her like a blanket to protect herself from anxiety and uncertainty. Book sophie is a fully flawed three dimensional character in the same way that movie sophie is a picturesque daydream meant for someone more in love with the idea of being in love than wanting to actually be in love.

But it also just annoyed me because this dude was unwittingly buying into the exact flaw of movie howl. Movie howl was remade into the idea of what women want: he's perfect, he's courtly and an utter gentleman, he acts like a prince. Movie howl is what book howl pretended to be when he went off on dates.

And the entire point of the book is that it took these disguises coming off (howl's princely fake romance character and sophie's literal old woman curse) for these two idiots to fall in love. Sophie starts out as a shy timid mouse, too scared to even talk to howl - she literally runs away from him when they meet in the market. She's so insecure and unable to be selfish that the curse is a blessing in disguise for her. The minute she becomes an old woman she no longer has anything to lose, all her fucks are gone, she's for once in her life just being herself. And she marches into howl's castle looking for a place to sleep because she thinks an old woman would be safe from howl's heart stealing (womanizing) ways.

And howl, meanwhile, doesn't know anything about this crazy old woman except Calcifer likes her (and calcifer represents howl's true heart so it's essentially his gut instinct), and he sees through the old woman disguise before she sees through his but the point is he's still seeing the real sophie - not the shy timid one (movie sophie).

And sophie sees behind howl’s entire facade! The book emphasizes that howl's towering powerful ‘castle’ is hollow smoke - it’s really a tiny three room cottage. Sophie gets to meet howl's real family and find out his working class plain mouse-brown hair background from an unmagical unglamorous world. Sophie cuts up his fancy suits immediately when howl tries to put on his disguise and ‘steal hearts’ again. That was the entire theme of the book: real love doesn't need disguises and artifice.

THAT was the teenage daydream: struggling with insecurity and posturing and a whole bunch of nonsense to discover honest true love underneath. And the movie was about none of that.

Teenage me never wanted the stupid princely version of howl. Teenage me wanted the messy, vain, spider loving, too soft hearted, cowardly, loyal, andre aggassi, stubborn-assed wizard from the book. I will never never forgive the movie for taking all that and turning it into something some guy who fancies himself a handsome courtly prince can put into his d*ting profile. 

Anyway if any wizards are in need of an old cleaning lady to befriend their fire demon let me know. Fire demon not required - i have my own, my blue teardrop of a car named Clacifer. And i have the spiders. And i have the facade of success thats on the brink of crumbling. And i keep heartlessly rejecting everyone who wants to date me. Shit fuck ive turned into howl. Except im also my own manic cleaning lady so maybe ive just hyper independently doomed myself to lonliness \o/

[9800sblog]

https://www.tumblr.com/4433xyz/722490798444347392/did-my-daily-energy-check-in-on-mingi-and?source=share

Hi, would you mind doing the same reading for yeosang or other mmbrs career?and share if you don't mind any pressure, though

ateez tarot reading

next big thing in each member's career

do I have their energy permission to do and share this reading? the emperor, 6 of wands

this is based on tarot and energy reading, don't trust me or rely on my words ☝️

seonghwa

something he used to do or enjoy predebut, a collaboration of some kind, he still developing this skill. it's emotional, intense, scary, a bit aggressive, he gotta juggle a lot at once, speed is also important. so this is making me think of rap, like getting an official position as one, which in ateez's case includes writing lyrics too. big stuff. the idea of a concept is important here too.

this year, next year, around his birthday, numbers 3, 6, 4 stood out.

hongjoong

his spread makes me think of rapping and collabing too (lil uzi vert x ateez 🧍‍♂️). hongjoong has got many options, this next big step is gonna bring him much visibility, he's gonna be showing off a lot, there's a lot of shimmer, which may be related to fashion. he's in a position of big authority delegating this and that, it's an emotional step for him, maybe a dream come true. the next big thing for hongjoong may be a clothing line or something similar 😭🫂

3 is a very consistent number here, 2 and 4 also. this is the consequences of his actions, gradual growth, completely inevitable, may start this year or next year, and get really done around this time of year 2025/6, september may be an important month for this project.

yunho

yunho might be acting again soon. this seems to be in it's early stages yet, like audition process. it's dreamy, a big big deal, it's emotional too, he seems nervous about it. I did read a while ago that yunho may soon live romance vicariously through fantasy and tv.

8 is an important number, may already be in progress, 6 and 3 also consistent. 2024, august, beginning of the year is important too.

yeosang

this spread can be interpreted as the end of his work as an mc in the show, and/or a new opportunity in a different but equally popular program in korean television. this is a skill he already has developed and is proud of, but doesn't get to use often, this would have more national than international reach. it's an opportunity that brings him liberation and excitement but makes him unsure because of real-life complications.

11, 2, 9, date calculation is not reliable for this reading, but the number 11 was super consistent.

san

a solo thing, for sure. his next big thing is related to his individuality and emotional maturity, this has to do with what makes his soul happy. it's an emotional thing that makes him look careless but he's very well prepared and thought about this a lot. the next big step in his career is a path not usually taken, it's scary, he doesn't know what comes next, anything can happen. this requires a lot of self control and introspection. I'm not sure what it is, san is quite secretive these days, but the cards may indicate romance depending on the perspective. this may be the revelation of something very important to him, changing the perspective of the general public, requires a leap of faith.

next august, this was really sure. when he feels confident.

mingi

mingi's thing has to do with discomfort, energy renewal, soul searching and is a big deal, makes him unsure. it's probably something unseen to the general public. mingi may get a big celebrity as a mentor backstage, become a guide for a big name or even take another break, either way, it's his destiny, he needs this. this may somehow relate to his future spouse, like he accumulates money or meets them because of this. it's something he's used to doing but still feels intimidating for him. this may be music, which he usually writes in a very personal and metaphorical manner.

he'll have to lose something to win something even bigger, really important for his future. may start or have started this year and "end" next year. numbers 8 and 7 are very consistent.

wooyoung

connection, relationships, fighting, competing. he comes out successful but not without making enemies along the way, it's almost like a scandal, which may make him look immature or have to do with the way he was brought up/his family. this may have international reach and make him influential, it's probably to do with his artistic side or his opinions. this is something he'll learn from and may taint his image.

november or september of this year or next, maybe next chuseok holiday (description reminds me of isac

jongho

ALL royalty cards, this is a really really big deal, a big influence, big position, maybe an authority figure. something he feels extremely comfortable, maybe even casual in/doing, he has accumulated skill and easily shines in (definitely to do with singing), very likely a solo thing but I see a big, influential female energy, someone or something he may be a fan of.

may happen on his b-day this year

[ctheathy]

PLSSS YOU WRITE FOR VOCALOID??? FOR FUKASE????

PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE GIVE ME GENERAL YAN HCS FOR MY BOY FUKASE 😩😩😩💕💕💕

....ᴘʟᴇᴀsᴇ ɪᴍ ᴡɪʟɪɴɢ ᴛᴏ sᴇʟʟ ᴍʏ sᴏᴜʟ ғᴏʀ ᴀ sᴍᴀʟʟ ᴄʀᴜᴍʙs ᴏғ ʜɪᴍ..

Yandere Fukase Headcanons

Fukase x Reader

Yandere Headcanons

Author’s Note : Hihii Nonnie-!! You’re at the right place for Fukase content, love our unstable lil memelord here. Definitely going to be making some more content of him in future occurrences ahah

Fukase is really just grossly obsessed with an idea instead of the real you to be honest. It’s a more realistic view on one obsessing over another, and I personally really enjoy this concept for yandere aus of a character. Stay safe yall, it’s important your mind remains in reality.

Potential ⚠️TWs⚠️ :

Gender-neutral darling • Stalking • Murder • Abuse of power • Anger issues • Jealousy • Extremely delusional mindset • General toxicity • Guilt tripping • Obsessive behaviour

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There’s a few ways how this could go; quite literally being seen as a celebrity under vocaloid circumstances, I cannot see him as extremely impressed by doting courses. He’s loved all over the world by the many, many fans of his and he knows this. Although undoubtedly being appreciative torwards it, in a way he desires his own personal space and rest for once in a while. So if anything, I believe a darling who treats him as a neutral being instead of the usual idolising would rather be what catches his attention; his features forming into a look of genuine shock after lacking the enthusiasm he’s used to, his surprise being rather indescribable, yet he feels intrigued right at the same time. If anything, he’s the one off for showing his unusual excitement and interest torwards you; likely being closer to desiring an impartial conversation with another that’s not all about himself. This actually felt... favourable to him.

He’d want to get to know you better, questions literally lingering left and right. It’s just been so long since he’s met a human being that can treat him right; basic manners having often been lacking when meeting the average fan. He’d get especially excited if you just so happen to share a similar interest in music. His entire creation has been surrounded by the idea of taking good use of those vocals of his, of course he could not help but get himself all hyped up over gathering that information!! He finds himself continuously going back to the things he’s heard from you, remembering the music you’ve mentioned by chord and getting far lost in his thoughts with that lovely voice of yours being repeated in his head, it having become the most gorgeous tune he’s ever heard.

At first it happened to be quite innocent. An example being how you’d easily find your ways into his head whenever he’d sing tracks with hints of romance connected to it, and becoming rather giddy as his imagination did the rest of the work for him. As so started his fantasies, which would end up being the literal root of screwing over not only his reflection, but his entire sanity aswell. It had started from occasionally seeing you in the particular musical numbers in a sense of comparison, to constantly being reminded of you among the whole singing process as a whole. He gets too deeply invested into these mere illusions his mind creates for his own self solance, almost corrupting him in a way. And it’s only then when he realises how much he’s been thinking about you; from daily, to every hour, to every minute, to the point of not being able to get you out of his racing mind at all.

Things only worsen from that point, much due to his sense of music having quite the dark side to it. Many of the songs he’s required for that are considered an entirely pure context also just so happen to be in the minimum, becoming the start of his mind taking quite the disturbing turn. Instead of the usual lovey dovey songs he’d view within the two of you, over time these get twisted into the songs with the most sickening meanings behind it. These songs of innocence, they...they do not do anything for him anymore. He’d slowly start acting upon the information of these music genres; looking up to them, even. Over time, all has become nothing but normalised in his head, the continuation of it definitely not having been pretty so far. Hateful notions torwards those around are starting to worsen to a severe extend, and unsanitary thoughts have been taking place in the back of his mind. Pictures of you are starting to find their ways on his walls and he’d briefly find his inappropriate mind going even further than that when the satisfaction runs out.

A massive stalker at heart, silently adoring and following you around from the distance as heavy breaths leave his lips. His heart continuously beating in an uncanny manner and feeling as if it’s going to burst out of his ribcage each and every single time; may that be due to the fact that he knows it’s wrong or because of way his mind fogs up whenever you just so happen to be nearby in the area. You’re quite close to being a drug to the redhead, and the more he tries to keep his hands off, the more desperate he comes crawling back right after, one occurrence being worse than the last.

As for when he’s required for a concert, singing requests or through other means, he becomes a whole lot more pouty and incredibly irritated by the solicitation knowing he has no saying in the matter. His patience likely dropping down to zero, not wanting to associate with any other of the vocaloids who had also been asked for their attendance and just wishing to hurry things up with to get back to you as quickly as possible. During these occurrences, I could totally see him making a demand to Point to keep his eye on you, and making very well sure you remain in eyesight atleast every five minutes in his absence.

When it comes to shedding blood; Fukase is nothing above of it. Due to how aggressive he can get in the rivalry dialogue, his murders are usually pretty brutal and messy to say the least. His main targets honestly ranging between friends, to family, to mere strangers you’ve only met on the streets once. Telling himself that the reasoning behind it all would be for you, despite it honesty becoming closer to being an obsession of his own rather than anything else. He’s not the kind that’s up for torturous desires though, the patience of his being far too short for his liking and being limited to almost nothing when others just so happen to be in the picture. The appearance of the said opponent alone would already be enough to push his frustration streaks on edge, over time becoming as unbearable as it is. He’d often be one to lure his victims in, using his approaching and friendly demeanor and seemingly innocent intentions in a way to guide the said person to their destiny, only leaving them to rot near the stage when the job is done. Yet on the other hand, they’re likely never truly planned to begin with. It’s almost as if he’s in a constant rampage, his instability and growing temper having caused in quite the anger issues in his system. These also cause him to become a rather unpredictable yandere over time, not only causing physical and sometimes even fatal damage torwards his rivals, but emotional harm torwards his darling.

Even if he does still manage to crawl his way into your heart, you rarely know what to do with the boy. It’s always the question whenever he’ll be close to reaching his limits again or not; he could easily be having the time of his life, suddenly snap at you, and then leave him to have a mental breakdown right infront of you for apology matters. Which is something he’ll stand to rather commonly as well; making himself out to be much more fragile and sensitive than he actually is. Though his supplications for forgiveness at a moment’s notice would be genuine ; he’d also be one to plead and beg for your full-time attention if he has to, crocodile tears spilling from his eye in an unsavoury attempt to win over your compassion one or another way. He needs your observation, and he’ll have no shame in doing whatever in order to get it.

His position as a vocaloid has caused in the unsteadyness in his mind and has made him become highly fragile torwards any riskier emotions he may experience from time to time. He takes advantage of his fame in order to get what he wants. People have begun to disappear around you and you’re likely starting to become paranoid by now, but there’s nothing anybody can even really do about it without violating their position with him being the loved and well-known vocaloid that everybody just so happens to adore. His high position always finding one or another way to get him out of trouble. Any suspicions are disintegrated into being that of a lie and any caught acts are merely justified. He knows you’re going the be the end of his entire career at some point, but he straight up cannot get himself to care for it anymore; not as long as you’re there with him, may that be through participation or force.

Even if this includes being solely lured in by a mere delusion he’s created out of you.

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[avidabsurdist]

Every time a new Brandon Sanderson book is released everyone updates their suggested reading order but all you need is the patience to be uninformed and enjoy the book!

But depending on your preference the best story to start with will be different.

If you want a crash course on the basics of The Cosmere's magic physics (Aka Investiture) so you can hypothesize on how other magic works I suggest the short story "The Emperor's Soul" as a starting point, it gives a solid overview of Realmic theory and covers Identity (a rather difficult idea to communicate) very effectively. (this is the start of the PhD route)

If you want something that's more like a traditional fairy tale as an intro I suggest Tress Of the Emerald Sea, which doesn't require a PhD in the shattering to understand. (though if you're going the PhD route I suggest reading this one later because if you're questioning the magic it's a far more confusing one)

Warbreaker is a good middle ground, if you're going the PhD route I suggest this second (it covers Intention which "The Emperor's Soul" doesn't), It's not a bad starting place either, it was my first book in The Cosmere and it's up for free on The Sand-Man's website. It's also all-around an excellent book.

I'm going to be (a tad) controversial and say I enjoy Elantris, it's certainly not Brando-Sando's best work but it was his first, and it's not a bad book to start with! just keep in mind that many of the issues in the book are things he improves on in later books.

Mistborn is two (soon to be 3) series, we distinguish them by 'Era' and they should be read in order if you want to make sense of what's going on.

Mistborn Era 1 (3 books) is also an excellent place to start, it's a YA-style series so you follow a teenager in a Post-(more like perpetual)-Apocalypse, but it's also an Epic high fantasy so if you like those and don't mind romance It's a good one.

"Mistborn Secret History": read this after Mistborn Era 1 if you're going the PHD route read anytime before The Lost Metal (Era 2 Book 4) for everyone else. (PhD track: if you want the most out of it I suggest also reading White Sand first)

Mistborn Era 2 (4 books) is a high fantasy Western set in the same world much later in time, 10/10 no notes, it's excellent.

The Stormlight Archive, TheBigOne™ It is planned to be a 10-book series with accompanying Novellas. I suggest reading in chronological order including the short stories, published so far that would be:

The Way of Kings

Words of Radiance

"Edgedancer" (novella)

Oathbringer

"Dawnshard" (novella)

Rhythm of War

Start with this series if you thirst for sprawling high-fantasy novels with page counts that would make grown men weep (the Audiobook for RoW was like 48 hours long)

The entirety of Arcanum Unbounded is not required reading, (unless you're on the PhD track) but it contains both "The Emperor's Soul" and "Edgedancer", you should probably read Elantris, Mistborn Era 1, Alloy Of Law (MB Era 2 Book 1), and Stormlight (up to Words of Radiance). If you enjoy Graphic Novels and dislike spoilers/rereading stuff when you haven't finished it yet I suggest skipping the White Sand excerpt.

White Sand is also not a terrible intro, it covers a theme in B-Sandy's work that isn't directly related to the cosmere but will give you a good insight into whether you'll like his work or not: the idea that skill is developed, not just inherent. if you're like me and dislike graphic novels GraphicAudio™ (actually a company not a joke) Has an Audio rendition that has some narrative differences from the Graphic novels (iirc at least one character is a different gender) But the Graphic novels also have a random boombox on a planet with no electricity so either should be fine.

Yumi and the Nightmare Painter is in a similar situation to Tress of The Emerald Sea except instead of a classic European Folktale Vibe it's got a Western Interpretation of Anime Vibe, ofc it's high fantasy like all Sandon Branderson's work so it's world is inspired by Japanese culture rather than just being Japanese.

The Sunlit Man read Shadows for Silence in the Forests of Hell (Arcanum Unbounded), and at least Oathbringer (Stormlight Archive 3) before this one, unless you like being thrown into the deep end, Mistborn Era 1 & 2 would also help.

There are other routes than Ph.D., there's also the Galactic Politics route, The Secret Society route, The Worldhopper Watcher route, The Ancient History route (Aka The Shattering route) ect

if you want specific reading route recs just tell me what you're looking for I can help!

[marinesocks]

writeblr intro!!

hi hi!! i'm helena/danger (she/her) and i'm new to tumblr but i saw a bunch of people doing writeblr introductions and wanted to join in!! i'm a bit shy when it comes to reaching out but if you interact with me at all i will like. 100% respond!!! ok here goes!!

about me

i am a:

adult,

lesbian,

ADD haver,

third culture kid,

hobbyist reader,

psych major,

avid dog enthusiast,

wannabe artist,

horror movie fan,

ecology nerd,

and, as you might have guessed,

a writer!!

i'm not incredible at it but for some reason i cant stop doing it so here i am!!

favorite genres/niches

fantasy mostly!!!

i like to think i like plot but honestly i'll like anything if the characters are good enough

HUGE mythology and folktale fan!! i have very strong opinions on how to incorporate those into a novel tho, so only ask about that if you dare!!

surprise creepy concepts and crapsaccharine worlds are like my favorite of all time. i 100% support lying about the contents of a project to keep that twist extra shocking!!

romcoms might not be my favorite but im a sucker for cute couples, especially if they are LGBTQ+

psychological horror is excellent, one of my favorites (even if i'd never dare to write it)

depictions and representations of mental health is probably the thing that's most consistent throughout my work? maybe its just the psych major talking but i find that stuff endlessly fascinating

i've lived in various places overseas for most of my life, so i enjoy stories set in unique locations absolutely DRENCHED in culture!!

current projects

i feel a bit awkward sharing these because again, i'm not a great writer, but i like reading about other writeblr's projects so i figured i'd give other people the option of seeing mine! warning for pretentious titles for very straightforward and basic concepts

WIP - flowers that mean "we'd miss you" - a short story I wrote while testing out subtext, character dynamics and prose!! the basic run-down is that a boy wakes up in the hospital and now he and his friends have to navigate a very difficult conversation. the subject matter definitely requires a content warning, and it has a few gaps i still need to fill, but overall i really like the direction it's headed!! out of all of these projects, it's probably the one i have the least issues with.

in the ataraxis of aftermath - this one is a novel i wrote for NaNoWriMo 2020! it is post-apocalyptic with elements of fantasy, slice-of-life, and romance, specifically lgbtq+ romance. it's about a girl exploring what remains of her flooded city when she suddenly finds another survivor. despite the genre, this novel is very slow-paced and calm, relying more on the character dynamics and emotional journey of the protagonist instead of traditional story beats and plotlines!! i finished the whole first draft that november (and without any real outline to guide me, so altogether it's a bit of a mess), and i plan on rewriting it after i finish the two following projects!!

WIP - the owl's wish - originally intended as a short story for just a friend and i, this project is quickly expanding into a full-on novel!! it's a haikyuu!! fanfic, but i've been told that the story is well enough removed from the show that it can work even if you don't that context. the only summary i can give without spoilers is that it's about an owl spirit with amnesia who finds a friend, and together they set off to get their wishes granted by the mysterious Lady of the Yellow Springs (but it's about more than that, i promise ;) ). it's set in ancient japan, and i referenced a few traditional fairytales when drawing up the outline, but otherwise it's a completely original folktale that can hopefully be accessible to anyone who picks it up!!

WIP - currently titled ouroboros paradox - this is a novel i am currently plotting, so honestly i'm not so sure how much i can say!! this is a fantasy novel coming from my intense passion for large creatures, horror elements, and norse mythology. as far as i know now, the story will follow two protagonists in the city of jörmungandr - one from the past and one in the present - as they try to navigate life, religion and ethics in a world where murdering living beings lengthens your lifespan. i plan on finishing my outline before this november, so i can try to hit 50K for nanowrimo this year!!

where to find me

Instagram, Wattpad, Art Fight, AO3, & Toyhouse! If you would like to read my writing but don't have a Wattpad account, i've linked the google docs directly to the titles :)

and that should be it!! if you read this far imagine i am giving you a very firm handshake with very watery eyes. if you'd like to reach out, ask questions, or share some of your story tidbits with me, please do!! i'd be so happy to reciprocate however you'd like :) have a great day!! drink some water!!!

[writeblrgarden]

PLANT GROWERS - MEET THE WINNERS - TARI

Meet Tari, who got third place in our grow a plant event in november! Tari goes by she/her, and you can find her at @mxxnlightwriting. She wrote her first story when she was six, and has been writing with the goal of publishing since 2020. She writes romance and fantasy, along with dabbling in a few other genres.

Tell us about the WIP you'd like to talk about today.

The WIP is "A Spark of Magic" a YA Urban Fantasy novel (the first in a series!) Isaac has turned into a merfolk and that puts everything in his life in jeopardy. To try and fix this predicament he asks Alice for help, someone he believes to be a witch based on a rumour he heard. He's right that she's a witch, but what he doesn't know is that she can't summon her magic. What starts as an unlikely partnership turns into something more as every answer they seek seems out of reach and the secrets they encounter make it hard for them to trust anyone, including each other.

Describe your writing process. Do you like to plan everything or are you more spontaneous?

I am more spontaneous, but my process changes depending on my writing project. Sometimes, I have a scene, a couple of characters, a small playlist for vibes and I just go for it. In those cases, I discover my story along the way, and through subsequent drafts, I work to make it cohesive and the best it can be. Some require more planning, and in those cases, I tend to outline the vast majority of the story, but there's always something that even I, as the writer, don't know from the start.

What have you found to be the most challenging and/or rewarding about writing?

I think writing can be a lonely endeavor, especially when you don't have writer friends to help you keep motivated. It's also challenging because more often than not, only you know your story and its characters and world, and translating that from your mind to the page can be hard, especially when you're a perfectionist. On the flip side, there's nothing better than finishing a WIP. Writing "The End" on a draft is always incredible. No matter how many times I do it, it always feels like the first time. It's the culmination of so many hours of work, of meeting characters and watching their journey from start to finish, of writing their story. It that feeling of "You've done it", you know? And no one can ever take that achievement from you.

Below the read more is more of our conversation with Tari, along with a link to pre-order her novel now!

What inspires you to write?

People. Loneliness. I want to write stories to keep people company, to be there for them when they feel like no one is. Mostly, I write stories because it's the only way I know how to live. They've been an integral part of my life for so long that I would be incomplete without it.

Share some advice for other writers.

Just keep writing! Never look down at your own work, always look at it from an inquisitive lense. Look at how far you've come, at how much you have improved. Be fascinated by your previous work and know that it's the foundation for the writer you are today. You will always be improving, so celebrate that, even when it's hard. On that same note, never put down your work when sharing it with others. That will have them create expectations of your work before they get to enjoy it. Present it as a blank canvas and let people create their opinions of it, good or bad, but always remember that it is your story. Make it the best it can be for you, not for others.

What do consider your writing strength?

I'd say dialogue is my strength as well as character building! With dialogue is great to go over everyone's speech patterns and see what kind of words they would use and how they would chat with others (and notice how that changes depending on the character they're interacting with), which also influences character building.

What has been the nicest compliment you've received or what has been the toughest criticism you've received?

Whenever people say they were moved by my writing that always feels like the greatest compliment. As for the toughest criticism, as a perfectionist, I am my toughest critic.

What do you love the most about writing?

The entire process of falling in love with a new idea and making it the best it can possibly be. Nothing will ever make me as happy as when I have a random idea that consumes my entire existence and demands to be brought to life. Sometimes, it's not you who chooses the story. Sometimes, it's the story that chooses you.

✨ Tari's novel, A Spark of Magic, is available for pre-order now! Check out the information on her post here.

[resonancewitness]

astrology app for clowning purposes: interaction (post 3)

this is the third post about running birth dates of two amazing gentlemen through the astrology app called TimePassages

I don't take astrology too seriously, mainly i use it for generating "possible character cards" in my creative writing exercises, to think outside the box of my own habitual thinking

but of course i am curious. and i ran the option of analysing the potential for interaction between two persons, that this app offers. and copied parts of the text, not adding my own interpretation

what's about this connection?

they are coming together for some serious mutual healing, they can expect intense emotions and the exposing of their most cherished and unknown secrets through this relationship, perhaps unknown even to their conscious mind 

there may be a feeling of being together for some karmic purpose 

they have come together for some serious life purpose that can heal themselves and others, although everything this deep requires passage of time and reflections of higher awareness.

accepting, respecting and loving the woundedness in each other 

each provide a loving and compassionate mirror to each other

there is a sanctuary for them both in this arrangement

home, family, business and romance are all supported

may feel a psychic bond, as though connected from some ancient, and perhaps unconscious, past experiences together

almost telepathic communication with each other 

the expansion, growth and development of each of them activates work with public and world karma for the other

cooperation between them can be extremely fulfilling when they employ proper balance and discrimination

alike but different, getting along with similar styles and interests

can complement each other well

a terrific basis for communication in relationship, a great potential for teaching and learning, a happy connection productive of joy and wisdom 

sharp and witty exchanges, and many interests in common

mutual exchange and quickening of their goals and visions together

love travel, movement and exploring ideas together

work together well, with room for inventive fantasy as well as practical understanding, enlivening loving approaches and shared purpose

planning and organising together is beneficial for them, with agreements strongly and clearly made

enjoyable sharing of eclectic ideas

their unique individualities ignite into mental gymnastics to stimulate practical innovation and vital exchange of ideas between them 

ability to travel and work together, to understand and work with humanitarian and cultural perspectives

awakening of the mind brought by this partnership, stimulation of the individual uniqueness of each of them

together they are likely to enliven others with their gifts and understanding 

strong and beneficial connection with each other

an idealized connection 

an instant emotional rapport with one another

an intuitive sense of friendship and similarity

feel comfortable together, with a sense of commitment to mutual goals

the feeling is of desire to help and supply and to care for each other 

feel a heightened response and receptivity for each other, partaking together of the nurturing side of life

a truly compassionate consideration of the partner’s needs in genuine loving surrender that may border on sacrifice

spiritually inspired love, friendship and mutual respect 

loyalty is strong between them, with devotion maintained, and long-term practical sensitivity aligned with shared goals. 

they help each other, feed each other and emote together in mutual acceptance, with warmth, affection, and a strong show of positive feeling, which is likely to be felt and shared by others

in a romantic context, this represents a supportive and feelings-oriented relationship, a powerfully symbolic statement about bonding, nurture, and loyalty for each other

protective toward each other

easy companions and enjoy living together, and sharing the same spaces

comfort and nurture each other, being natural emotional allies that together can forge a comfortable and safe home environment that keeps away the harsh realities of the mundane world 

can lead and act boldly, have a willingness to be present with and enjoy each other, with strong attraction and liking

this aspect is good for the child in each of them, with a strong friendship, and warm caring comradeship, and harmony of response, an unusually good aspect for play and entertainment

enduring emotional sympathy 

receptivity and congeniality, nurturing of each other in a rapport of peaceful feelings and sensual enjoyment, relaxing in trust and exploring the loving nature of life together

the older one will value and lend support to the emotional needs of the younger one, who in turn will nurture and encourage the aesthetic sensibility and values of the older one 

the empathy and support of the older one are appreciated by the younger one, who also provides solid ground for the older one, at times either financially or in some creative form

the softer side of each of them is explored, along with the desire for artistic satisfaction, financial growth, and pleasure in general

welcome and embrace all forms of worldly enjoyment together with loving grace

jewelry and the arts play an important part in this relationship

beneficial acquisition of things together, as well as the simple pleasures of sharing

their relationship may involve music, dance, art, spirituality, and areas of service

they will likely share feelings of elegance, grace, and charm just being around each other, and take pleasure in natural settings or the enjoyment of the artistic events together

there is search for more and more experience in general

in a romantic context, they are in for happy times, romantic pleasures, playfulness, intense desire, expansive sexuality and creative lovemaking

there is a challenge or obstacle of some kind in this relationship, especially in the background macrosocial factors, related to working with masses and/or larger sociopolitical influence 

[fullfiresiren]

unconquered // 8

[8; varying degrees of warmth]

[read on ao3]

A week has passed since the incident at dinner.

Princess Helaena visits you often; in your apartments to sew, in the gardens to sketch, or just to pass time walking through the Keep. She brings you gifts she finds endearing, or ones she thinks you would enjoy -- an assortment of colored ribbons for your hair, romance and fantasy novels from the library, even some pastries she asked the cooks to make especially for the two of you to share. Where you have lost closeness with Prince Aemond, you have gained it tenfold with the princess. You grieve the loss of it, and yet, warmth blooms at your new friendship.

She mentioned briefly in first early days after what had transpired at supper, that her bull-headed brothers behaviour was undeniably uncouth, and there were no excuses for it. She had relented, however, that she would be happy to speak with him on your behalf, should you wish it. You did not; stubborn temperament refusing to bow and submit. Prince Aemond was at fault, so Prince Aemond should speak first. As the days progressed however, she spoke of it less and less. Until, one morning in her apartments, as the both of you sat sewing on her blue chaise longue, she felt the need to speak.

“My brother has a terrible habit of being unable to admit his mistakes,” she voices with a sigh, as if it will change your opinion of the situation. “Although I have no doubt that he knows he was wrong.”

You do not look up, gaze transfixed on your work before you, continuing to sew a small blue dragon in flight amongst four others. Your skills have grown since you first began, and although you are far behind Princess Helaena's ability, there is a visible improvement that has you proud.

“Indeed,” you murmur, wishing the topic would lay itself to rest once and for all. Instead, others drag it from the dirt to inspect continuously. “I could more easily forgive his pride had he not wounded mine, princess.”

She looks saddened by your words, but, ultimately does agree. Her obtuse brother will not soon hear the end of this from her, and likely, until the matter is resolved, neither will you.

“The weather today is lovely,” you change the subject quickly, hoping she follows suit. “It would be a shame to waste it indoors.”

“You sound like your lady’s maid,” she giggles, and you scoff good-naturedly.

“She is right, though. Why are we not taking advantage of the grounds? You know how much I adore them, princess.”

“Sewing outside in hot weather is distracting,” she speaks, adding, “and you know you need not call me ‘princess’ any longer.”

Close enough to finally forgo titles, you smile down at your work, friendship truly solidified. “Of course... Helaena...”

She nudges you affectionately with her shoulder -- an action you have come to realise means encouragement and closeness. Unbeknownst to yourself, you are Helaena’s first, and only friend.

Suddenly, she sits more upright, posture a little forced, and turns her head towards you. Her eyes linger on her embroidered beetle, but every so often, they flick upwards to your face.

“Perhaps... we should finish our sewing now, and meet in the gardens in an hour?” she suggests, but it is as if she is reading from a book, or piece of parchment.

You give her a curious look. “Yes, I... that would be nice...” A raise of your eyebrow, and then, “Why in an hour? Why not now?”

Her eyes glint with something you are unable to place when she says, “To give us time to ready ourselves, of course.” It seems like a flimsy excuse, and so she adds, “I also wish to check on my beloved children.”

At the mention of her issues, you readily believe her. You assume they are with the wetnurse, or maids currently. Children are to be loved, cherished. They require constant attention from an ever watchful attendant, and, you suppose, when a mother is without them for a while, a part of her heart aches to be reunited. You nod in understanding, placing your work down near her elusive sewing box.

“Ah, of course,” you smile, standing to leave her be, “Let us meet in an hour, then.”

She sees you out with fondness, and, once you are walking down the hall, calls out to you.

“In an hour, (y/n),” she reminds, waving to you, all formal titles discarded to make way for a blossoming familiarity.

You turn to glance over your shoulder.

“An hour,” you confirm.

You do not return to your apartments; no need to change, nor eat, nor rest. Instead, with nothing else to do, you choose to make your way down the length of the Keep, straight to the gardens. The princess told you to meet in an hour. It matters not that you are early, only late.

Your shoes click with each step you take to descend the stone staircase towards the open grounds, and crunch when you reach the pebbled paths. You set a leisurely pace when you walk, hands clasped behind your back, taking in your soft surroundings.

The garden is as you always remember it to be; vibrant green with delicate specks of color here and there. As if an artist has taken liberties to separate their monochromatic canvas with signs of life in every hue. It is refreshing for the eye; kindred to the soul. The air today carries the thick scent of wet earth, and when you scan the grounds for the reason, you become aware that the workers tending to the nursery seem to be planting a new row of fruit trees. Intrigued, you wander over.

A young man on his knees pats down loose soil around a sturdy sapling. Upon the crunching pebbles that sound out your approach, he glances over his shoulder.

“H-High Lady,” he starts, smiling up at you, dirt smeared across his features. He seems surprised at your appearance, and stops what he was doing, asking shyly, “Is... there something I can help you with?”

“What are you planting?” you ask, taking a step forward to inspect it closer, curiosity growing.

“Blood oranges, my lady,” he replies. “From Dorne. They were imported upon request of the King. I have heard when they are ripe, they release a fragrant scent.” You must look overly interested, and he satiates your need for knowledge, by adding, “We don’t know if they’ll take in the climate here, so we’re being careful with the planting, and taking extra care to grow them.”

“How lovely,” you murmur. “Can these be eaten like regular oranges?”

“Y-yes, my lady. When they grow larger and sprout fruit, you can pick them from the trees,” he explains, adding hastily, “should you wish.”

He seems entranced by you; your features, your way of speaking, your manner, and glances up at you like you are some kind of deity.

All the workers at the Keep have heard tell of you – the mysterious high born who arrived on dragon back, but bears no lineage to the crown. With little to no interaction with you, and your staggering notoriety and favor from the King, the small minds of the castles’ household began to wander far and wide. He has heard the rumors about you. That your beauty, they say, is striking -- almost unearthly. Some of them even go so far as to call you a witch. Some older and more cynical laundresses say you never bleed, not even once. The cooks whisper that you only eat raw meat, and one scullery maid swears to the seven that she saw you worshipping the full moon one night.

But as you stand before him now, he believes only one. Your beauty is not of this earth.

You smile at him. “I wish you luck, then, in your work.”

“T-thank you, my lady,” he nods, and you continue onwards, leaving him to stare after you in a trance.

When they grow fully, you expect orange trees would compliment the grounds very much, and perhaps one day, you can take the joy of sharing one with Helaena under the shade of the Wierwood tree. The thought warms you, but you grow cold when a breeze reminds you that as of this moment, Prince Aemond will not be a part of that future.

The grounds, however, never fail to ease your crowded mind and hush your thoughts. Something about being in amongst nature calms your fire. You wonder if it would be too much of you to ask the King for a room that overlooked the gardens? Perhaps. The view from your room now is undoubtedly splendid; one that stretches across the city and the Narrow Sea. Too low, however, to see the beaches, nor your beloved dragon.

Any room with a view makes you feel less like a prisoner.

Sometimes, when you step out onto the balcony of your apartments to gaze across the ocean, you wonder if you are staring in the direction of your homelands. Separated by distance and time. A thought that is sobering, and leaves you hollow.

From your path, you notice a head of long, soft white, and a light blue gown appear from the edges of the gardens; unmistakably the princess. The hour passed quicker than you thought it would, and you make your way over to her quickly. She moves to stand at the base of the stone steps that gives those coming from the castle entrance to the gardens, looking up as if waiting for someone -- waiting for you, of course. What a surprise, then, when you call out to her from across the grounds.

“Ah, Helaena!” you greet, quickening your pace to reach her. She turns, a little shocked, but holds out her hands for you to grasp. You readily accept them. “I have a wonderful idea! Let us introduce Dreamfyre and Archeon! We could ride them together over the city or the Narrow Sea? Wouldn’t that be excellent?” you gush. “Today's weather is perfect for... a... flight...”

You trail off when you notice Prince Aemond descend the stone steps behind her.

Like a ghostly apparition, or a phantom spectre, dressed in his usual melancholic black, he is graceful when he moves, but abrupt when he stops. He has spotted you, face hiding poorly concealed shock, eye growing wider before it narrows at the back of his sister’s head. You glance at Helaena, and she gives you a meek look.

You have half a mind to turn and stomp all the way back to your apartments, impudent at being tricked. Not willing to risk looking like the defeated party, however, you hold your ground until the Prince himself makes the first move. If he stays, you stay. If he goes, so will you.

You hear him sigh out sharply through his nose, and, after a moment of painful contemplation, continues down the stairs until he is before you both.

“I thought the three of us could use a calming walk in the gardens,” the princess explains, moving to stand between you both, linking arms with her brother, and then with you.

You realise you cannot escape, nor back away, and so, when she sets a pace, you can do nothing but keep up.

The atmosphere is horribly tense and high strung, and judging from the look on Prince Aemond’s face from the brief glances you shoot his way, he would rather be anywhere but here. You take offense, despite feeling the same. You turn away, refusing to look in their direction. A traitorous friend and a silent fiancé.

“My future sister and I were sewing earlier,” she speaks, filling the silence. “Isn't that right?”

Her affectionate word usage does not go unnoticed by you, and she nudges your side when you keep quiet.

You answer indignant. “Yes.”

“I found it most enjoyable,” she continues, guiding you through the grounds, and towards, you notice, the Wierwood tree. You have realized by now, that she has already planned something without your knowledge, and now, all you can do is brace yourself for the results. “Do you remember when I tried to teach you to sew, brother?”

Prince Aemond refuses to answer, allowing his sister to drag him about in the hopes that she’ll let go and he can retreat. But she has him tightly, and will not give up.

“We were young, and you would cry whenever you pricked yourself--”

“Yes,” he grits, willing her to cease talking. “I remember.”

“I so loved to sew,” she continues, “and you detested that I had to learn alone. You used to sit with me for hours, then, no matter how many times you hurt yourself. Do you remember the maester had to make a special salve to help with your cuts from the needle? I believe only you know the correct ointment to ask for--”

“Indeed,” he forces, giving her a particularly hostile look.

Your suspicions, however, are confirmed. The healing ointment was intended for you, and it was a gift from the prince.

Helaena stops abruptly, under the delicate shade of the ancient Wierwood tree, the canopy stretching out far beyond its trunk. She sighs. Her trick was craftily done, and well executed, but now, she fears she has not planned far enough ahead. This is the perfect place for you two to talk; secluded and quiet, but now, she fears, with her here, nothing will be said.

“Ah!” she exclaims softly, and far too pronounced for it to be natural. “My centipede! Oh dear, I believe I left the roof of it’s tank open... this will not do... I must return to my apartments to check, please excuse me!”

You give her a pleading look, silently begging her to not leave you alone, but she slips from your grasp like smoke, smiling excitedly at you from behind her brothers stiff back. And with that, she takes her leave; the only thing that fills the silence, is the soft chorus of songbirds.

You stare adamantly ahead, stomach twisting uncomfortably with nerves and apprehension. The prince does the same.

When a minute passes and nothing transpires, you decide to sit at the base of the tree. Leaving is defeat, but staying is victory, no matter the silence that hangs over both decisions.

Prince Aemond stands for a few moments longer, and you feel his eye on you. You dare not look at him, burning humiliation from supper still raw, and stare out across the secluded area before you. When he finally accepts that you will not meet his gaze, he sits slowly, placing himself further from you than necessary.

A breeze flits about the two of you, rustling the auburn leaves above.

“Did you receive the ointment?” he says aloud suddenly, looking away. You notice he has taken to playing with the strands of grass by his thigh.

You glance down at your hand, no sign of cuts or injury thanks to the salve you had been using. “Yes.”

“Good.”

You hear the branches above you creak softly, a few birds perched overhead take flight, as if they sense the oncoming storm. Prince Aemond is more forceful, you notice, as moments pass by, with the grass by his side, ripping out clumps and throwing it away, lips pursed in annoyance. Chaos is coming, you think.

“If you did not wish to marry me, you should have voiced your opinion sooner,” he says firmly, turning his head only slightly towards you, but keeping his eyes transfixed on where he is massacring the ground. There is something shifting under the waters of his voice that foretells of a lurking danger. He make his signature hum, but it sounds derisive. “Finding out at dinner in front of my family was detestable.”

You are genuinely confused by his words, taken aback by the distain in them. Frowning at him with a bewildered expression, you say, “I don’t understand--”

He meets your gaze hotly, and bites with more force, “I said if you did not wish to have me as a husband, you should have confided these feelings with me in private.”

“I feel no way of the sort,” you retort, scowling at the accusation. “What exactly are you accusing me of--?”

“I saw your reaction to my fathers words, my lady,” he lowers his voice, words laced with venom, “To the date of the wedding being set. You sat in fearful silence, and only relaxed when my sister reassured you that marriage is not that bad. Anyone who is happy to be wed would react in the opposite way--”

“You have great experience, then, in being wed to another?” you ask sharply, the question an obviously rhetorical one. “Of the innermost feelings of women? Of myself?”

He falls silent, but his eye grows wide and wild. Stories forewarn that you should not taunt a great beast, but they fail to recognize you are far more fearsome.

You stand your ground, and hold his gaze.

“Or are you making assumptions, my prince?”

You are sure that only your status and gargantuan dragon are keeping you exempt from the customary manners of court. Should you be anyone else, you believe speaking to a prince in such a way would mean your imminent death. How lucky for you, then, that no amount of power frightens you, when your own easily encompasses it.

He remains silent, and you have more to say.

“You humiliated me in front of your entire family, and your actions have left a searing wound on my--” you wonder whether or not to voice it aloud, but your adrenaline commands you to, “...on my feelings for you. You, too, were silent at the news. Does this mean then, that you loathe the idea of marrying me? Of being my husband?”

You leave the question hanging heavy in the stagnant air, chest heaving.

His face, however, abruptly changes, as if a sudden realization has dawned on him. The strength to look you in the eyes fades quickly, and he turns, scoffing. There are no words that form on his tongue as he stares out over the grassy path in front of him. A long moment passes where you fear he will not say anything at all. And then, ever so quiet, he speaks.

“It does not.”

Your emotions are raw with the confrontation, but a sense of calm washes over you. Like you have faced the raging storm and withstood its wrath.

“I told you I would not be insulted nor hurt if you rejected me,” he says, calmer this time, but you notice his fingers have returned to picking at strands of grass and dirt. He is not fully convinced, nor is his statement true. He was very obviously hurt at your rejection. “So tell me with honesty, my lady.”

You wait for the question but it does not come. A glance towards him, and he is already looking at you with an expectant expression, waiting for you to give him permission.

“Ask me, my prince.”

“I...” he trails off, murmuring, “...do not wish to ask.”

“Find the courage,” you say, unwilling to allow him to flit around his meaning. He should be forthright with this.

He sighs, heavy, and full bodied, like he has been mentally drained by the events. His hands come to rest in his lap, and he looks to the heavens, keeping his eyes there when he finally does ask.

“Do you wish to marry me?”

The question is heavy, but it was what you were expecting. You lean your head against the tree, staring up at the canopy above you. The sun glints through the leaves, and with honesty, you answer.

“I do not wish to marry you out of duty. I wish to marry you for love,” you say. “But never once have I not wanted you to be my husband.”

The silence returns, but this time, it is soft, calm. The maelstrom has passed, and now, the tide only ebbs against the shore.

He tilts his head forward, looking down into his lap; pristine appearance tarnished by his own doing. Pale fingers now smeared with grass debris, under his nails, earth.

“Please forgive me,” he whispers, “for my actions... and for my assumption. I... was wrong.”

My brother has a terrible habit of being unable to admit his mistakes.

You say nothing, heart thundering in your chest at the acknowledgement of his words. Despite what his sister claims, he has owned his wrongdoings -- for you. For the assumed loss of you, he was gripped tightly by anger and shame, wounded deeply by your perceived rejection. From you, only you, he asks forgiveness.

Prince Aemond of house Targeyen is rumoured to be many things. One-Eyed savage, full of bitter resentment and vengeance. Disfigured vortex of fury and wrath. Ladies cannot bear to be around him, men fear to look him in the eye. A dangerous mix of talent and perseverance that warns others not to toil. He readily commands the largest dragon, and yet, sits beside you soft, and quiet.

Her brother cannot admit mistakes. Your fiancé begs absolution.

He looks at you now, face filled with gentle sadness at your silent state.

“Have I ruined everything?” he whispers.

“On the contrary,” you murmur, smiling, “I am perhaps more fond of you now.”

He grows red in the face, looking down, and asks, “Do you forgive me?”

“Yes,” you answer, “I do.”

His eyes flash up at you, and he gives you a tentative smile. You return it readily.

“Speak to me,” you start, and he holds your gaze, “if you feel a bridge developing between us. The worst distance between two people is misunderstanding.”

He nods mutely, holding tightly to the phrase. He once heard his sister say that love is a strange and inexplicable mix of comprehension and misunderstanding. He does not want love to be anything other than warm. Varying degrees of it.

Prince Aemond does not care about a great many things. To be hated? It does not phase him. To be misunderstood? He is indifferent to it.

But to be either, by you, frightens him. Truly.

“I am sorry,” he whispers.

“I am sorry, too,” you murmur back. “I feel terribly for the ground, though. It seems like most of your anger was fixated there.”

He laughs, glancing down to patches of earth ripped up from his own fingers. “I was frustrated,” he hums.

“I know,” you acknowledge, sighing out peacefully and closing your eyes. “I was frustrated too.”

“By me?”

There is a soft insecurity that lingers about him. The more you have gotten to know him, the more you understand his cold and stoic exterior is to make up for that. Only his sister has been allowed to see through it. Now, you have been gifted the same.

“By the situation,” you reassure, peaking an eye open to glance at him. He is already looking at you. You close it again, and relax. “Never by you.”

You do not need to look to know that he is smiling.

[part 9]

[deadrayg2mf]

The Dragon’s Bride (Deal with a Demon #1) by Katee Robert

I really can’t praise Katee Robert enough. She is by far one of my favorite authors in the genre. I know I’m going to get a female lead I can relate to, or at least actually like, right off the bat. A male lead who is going to be the perfect match for her. And some quality plot with just enough snippets of the characters backgrounds for me to beg and plead for more books about them.

The Dragon’s Bride is the kick starter to the Deal with a Demon series, the precursor (though not required read) to The Kraken’s Sacrifice (check out the post on that). It follows Briar, a charming survivor of domestic abuse who has one wish: her husband’s death. Luckily, she is also one of the five women to make a deal, seven years of partnership to a monstrous leader for anything they could possibly want in the world. That’s how she ends up in the Bargainer Demon’s castle, with her last memories of the human realm being her late husband's blood on a demon's hands, and her hand in marriage to a dragon. 

Briar is fragile but strong, cautious but daring, curious, blunt, and a little bit of a hellcat, and while this all may sound super contradictory, Katee weaves her in such a way that makes her a darling in my eyes. Briar also has a breeding kink, so there’s that sort of dirty talk coming out of her mouth. 

Sol is a dragon. He swims a little like a crocodile, he wears pants, and he is so totally smitten with Briar it’s adorable. He is patient, gentle, and kind. He doesn’t let Briar skirt around her issues but holds her when the nightmares come during the night. He doesn’t push her but makes sure she knows she is safe from whatever she may fear will come back to haunt her. Oh, and he is all too willing to play into that breeding kink fantasy. (And he’s got double the trouble to do so)

Now while some may be disappointed to hear there is no DP (double penetration) in The Dragon’s Bride (that’s what the second book is for) the spice is seriously insane, and there sure is plenty of it within the 180 pages. Now I may never be one to utter the phrase “fill me up,” I sure do enjoy reading it being used to provoke a giant dragon man. 

Another must read from Katee Robert. If you’re looking for a soft romance between a survivor who thinks she’s broken and a dragon who’s determined to show her she isn’t in 180 pages, with a bunch of sex too, then The Dragon’s Bride is your book for the night. 9/10

Would I read again? I did for this! I would still!

Would I recommend? Absolutely!

[utilitycaster]

I feel like something so many ppl just don’t get is it’s improv. I’ll see ppl be like “I hate this arc” or “this dragged on” I’m like?? If you want to watch a curated tight fantasy story with a normal beginning middle and end maybe don’t watch long form improv media? Also maybe I’m just fundamentally misunderstanding what ur post is about. I’ll constantly think and say “it’s their game” not as a “they’re above criticism” way but more in a “cmon it’s not like this is a script that’s being poured over by ten ppl sitting in a room debating whether this 30 seconds drags or not”. Like I love Play it By Ear from Dropout but I’d never hold it to the same standard as like Six the musical or whatever. Improv/normal media requires a completely different rule set for criticism imo

Hey anon,

So here's the thing - I agree with this in terms of formal, published criticism (Ebert's Law, if you will) where you are, to an extent, grading on a scale; you should be judging on what the work is trying to achieve and not some abstract ideal that applies equally to all works regardless of provenance.

However, for personal discussion (including your own personal Tumblr blog)? This is totally irrelevant. You're allowed to dislike things, whether it's a 30 minute improvised musical or whether it's the Marriage of Figaro, for any reason. It is 100% valid for someone to look at the Mona Lisa and say "eh, doesn't do it for me," and, moreover, it's just as valid for them to say "it doesn't do it for me because I don't care for representative art and prefer abstract, modern works, but Da Vinci's sfumato technique is indeed masterful" as to say "It doesn't do it for me because it's fucking weird to me that she doesn't have eyebrows." People's enjoyment of a work is not necessarily reliant on effort put in or how much the artist cares about - it should be based on how much the art appeals to them.

It's fine if people hate an arc. If they hate it so much that they aren't able to enjoy watching, then I think they should probably stop watching...but that's a choice for them to make, and as someone who loves complaining, I've talked about arcs dragging and had it interpreted by total strangers as "you clearly seem to hate this" when really it was just a case of me...not liking some aspects of a larger whole, and choosing to talk about that because I had things to say. Like, I do think the early Campaign 3 pacing was deeply frustrating, and I do think that this wouldn't be the case if it weren't improv, but there have been many improv actual plays that I felt had great pacing, and also it was still frustrating to me and I wanted to express that.

In fact, what I was getting at in my post is that if you're trying to provide a counterpoint to other people's criticism, you need to focus on the points they're making; and if you're trying to defend something in general, you need to be talking about what you find good that is specific to that thing, rather than making excuses like "the cast likes it" or "it's improv".

To give an example: I love the Aeor arc, which was, to an extent, divisive. Here's two responses I could have:

"I think the Aeor arc built up to a satisfying and emotionally charged final boss fight that was thematically resonant with the Mighty Nein as a group. I think the path there had a good balance of adventure, combat, and RP scenes, especially given its position as the final arc of the campaign and the one in which many of the character romances were realized. Eiselcross was a fun and well-crafted environment that was challenging for a party of their level, and Aeor provided new insight into the Calamity, which at the time had not been explored in depth, while also providing a lot of opportunities to tie into the arcs of the various individual characters, notably Caleb and Caduceus. I also personally am a big fan of exploring fallen technologically advanced civilizations in a fantasy setting as a trope."

2. "Well, it's the cast's table, and it's improvised."

Both are true, but the first one lets people know what I see in that arc and why I love it. The second one ends the conversation, is true of almost everything Critical Role does, probably doesn't address anyone else's complaints, and doesn't even explain why I like it. And for what it's worth I don't think meta needs to address anyone's complaints - you're allowed to look at the Aeor arc and say "cool, I think it took too long and dragged and was too stressful" and we can part ways knowing we are different people with different tastes. But if I were, hypothetically, passionately trying to defend the Aeor arc and were openly resentful towards people who disliked it, the first option is obviously superior to the second option, which makes me look like someone who cannot come up with a single specific reason why this thing I allegedly love is good, and who is whining because I lack the maturity to accept that my opinions are not universally shared by all.

[sweetchcolate]

Hi~ if you're interested, here's a scenario for you:

While talking with an acquaintance, the conversation drifts into the topic of anime since they learn you've watched quite a few shows already. They ask you for recommendations and, when pressed for specifics, they say something along the lines of "I don't really have a specific preference." (This is, of course, untrue—everyone has their yays and nays, and maybe this person just doesn't know theirs. Since they're just an acquaintance, you probably wouldn't know either.)

So as you look into their gleaming curious eyes:

What will you consider before giving a recommendation(s)?

What show(s) would you recommend?

(Note: this is entirely for funsies so please feel free to opt out or to take your time! ☺)

Damn this is like my worst nightmare come true 😂 It's so hard to give recommandation because it depends on one's personal taste, but also a person's state of mind (if you don't want to watch a drama because you're not in the mood for it, you won't want to watch a show even if it's the greatest drama ever produced), openess to new experiences, and tolerance to bullshit such as 2nd hand embarrassment/fanservice/anime grunts/etc.

I'm basing this a lot on the weeb/ass/shit scale, which grades anime by the amount of anime/japanese culture knowledge needed to enjoy it, the amount of fanservice, and its overall quality. But within each tier, you could probably create subtiers (genre subtier, trope subtier, music subtier, etc,).

To note: a lot of the recs are series I watched recently or remember at the top of my mind, so there's this bias to consider.

Depending on how well I know my acquaintance and their tastes, I would go like this:

entry level. something which is easily accessed and understood by most people with minimal (to none) anime/Japan culture knowledge: most if not all Studio Ghibli movies, Cowboy Bebop, Fullmetal Alchemist, maybe Inuyasha (because of like cultural osmosis and its impact on the early 2000s anime scene), Raven of the Inner Palace, Akagami no Shirayukihime, slice of life or introspective shows (such as Sousou no Frieren's first cour, Spy x Family)

slightly above entry level. something which needs a bit of trope/cultural knowledge (like the importance of high school student councils or usual HS/romance/love triangle tropes), but could be appreciated even without because of solid writing/animation and minimal (to none) fanservice/2nd hand embarrassment: Mob Psycho 100, Akatsuki no Yona, Noragami, Skip to Loafer, Kimi ni Todoke, Sailor Moon, Neon Genesis Evangelion to an extent (with warning about the way the plot goes wild and the fanservice and innuendo between teens and adults), Kusuriya no Hitorigoto, Detective Conan

something which requires a good grasp/recognition of tropes as well as willing to engage and think because of the way the anime is tackling and deconstructing tropes: Princess Tutu, RGU (with a lot of content warnings)

classic shonen vibes (aka fanservice galore, tournament arc/powering up tropes, etc): Kimetsu no Yaiba, early Naruto or Bleach

mindfuck but good: Mononoke, NGE (to an extent)

good/entertaining but the fanservice is going to be a MAJOR turn off: Soul Eater, Ranma 1/2, Lupin III movies/OVAs

You might have noticed but most of the series I've listed are relatively short, about 12-24 episodes (except for Inuyasha, SM, FMA, DetCo, and Ranma which are >100 episodes), since I think recommending a long-running series might scare some people away. That (and/or the pretty important amount of fanservice), is also why I didn't include big 'staples' like Naruto, Bleach, YYH, HXH, etc. regardless of my personal enjoyment or taste.

Most of what I like are fantasy/romances (like SAFT, My Happy Marriage, KamiHaji) or niche shows like Cybersix. I wouldn't recommend these to an acquaintance because of how close these series can be to me and how I don't want to put them up for judgement. I can be a bit defensive of my taste ^^

Thank you for the ask! It wasn't an easy exercise, but one I've been unconsciously doing on my own for a while, so it's nice to finally have it in writing if the need ever occurs!