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#its a gorgeous book and the story is awesome
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Death To The Mechanisms (The Mechanisms)
Our bodies are still and our blood is cold/The books are closed and our stories told/No happy ever after for a tale so old/Laid in blood when the story is done
"ITS JUST. OUGH. So basically all the members of the band (the mechanisms) are immortal space pirates. AND THIS IS THE SONG ABT HOW THEY ALL FINALLY DIE. And each one of their deaths is painfully tragic and fits their characters so well but OUCH IT HURTS. AND THEY ALL DIE ALONE. THEY DON'T EVEN GET TO DIE TOGETHER THEY DIE ONE BY ONE WITH THE FINAL ONE OF THEM TO DIE (toy soldier) DOING SO BECAUSE ALL ITS FRIENDS ARE DEAD AND IT FEELS LIKE IT HAS NO PURPOSE OR REASON TO KEEP ON PRETENDING TO BE ALIVE ANYMORE SO IT STOPS PRETENDING!!!!! And after they spent so long witnessing tragedies from all around the universe its only fitting that their own deaths will be so tragic!!! And just. Man. I could honestly submit the entire mechs discography but thisll have to do i guess"
I Think I'm Normal (Carter Ace)
I'm so important, I'm fucking gorgeous/Prioritize myself because cause hell I know I'm awesome/My unpredictability should have you cautious/I'm also not American so don't deport me/I think that I'm a threat to my development/I think my life is better when I'm celibate/Immediate attention ain’t the best and I surround myself with stress and I just gotta keep the pressure down
"Sometimes i wanna be so incredibly self-destructive. but i’m normal. i think my brain is kinda fucked. but so what? i just really like this song, man"
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lorirwritesfanfic · 1 month
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Top 10 Choices books
This time, I actually managed to rank my favorite books. But don't expect this to happen again 😅
1. The Crown & The Flame: fierce female MC who's not only a queen but also a warrior, male MC that turns into a dragon, intricate adventure with lots of action, great characters (including LIs, side characters and villains) and didn't even need CG art to make the story compelling. Oh, how I miss PB's early years...
2. Ride or Die: I expected the worst from a book which MC is a nerdy teen getting involved with illegal car dealers and car races, but PB went there and made me eat my words. The outstanding plot, the amazing LIs and side characters, actual character development for MC and a beautiful open ending. All of that in one single book? Damn, PB ❤️
3. Hero: I'm not of big fan of super heroes stories, but this one has my heart with its interesting LIs and friends to MC, engaging plot and a villain that looks like he stepped out of Spiderman universe to enter Choicesverse.
4. Bloodbound: even though the two last chapters were absolutely traumatizing (and I will NEVER forgive what the writing team did to Jax and Lily), Bloodbound lore is really engaging, has some great action scenes, most likely the best NSFW scenes and wonderful LIs.
5. Perfect Match: I genuinely thought it was just a romance book. I was so wrong! PM has adventure, sci-fi, drama, comedy and gorgeous LIs. I love it!
6. The Heist Monaco: Smart and cunning MC, interesting and gorgeous LIs, awesome adventure/action/comedy plot and great side characters with some of the best group scenes.
7. It Lives Beneath: best horror book PB has ever written with choices that can drastically affect the ending. Plus, Tom is romanceable 😍
8. A Courtesan of Rome: because it's based on Ancient Roman History (and I love History), the storyline has some inconsistencies that bugged me sometimes, but MC is so awesome, and the LIs were so good that it was hard to choose and I nearly forgot Cassius wasn't this sweet, intellectual and idealistic guy the book makes him look like lol.
9. Mother of The Year: another book PB made me eat my words. I love a book with a fierce MC, wonderful LIs and a daughter so adorable and smart that even this millennial terrified of having kids was all heart eyes in the very first chapter;
10. High School Story: did I expect to be so invested in a story about a teenager having cheesy teenager problems during high school? No. But I was so freaking invested on this drama-free teen trilogy I was pissed when I found out the fourth book was actually a new story without my beloved MC and their hilarious dad and the original HSS LIs had very little relevance to the plot (But I forgive the writing team because of Skye ❤️)
Honorable mentions:
- Distant Shores: Pirate book, time travel and a heartbreaking ending. What's not to like?
- Blades of Light and Shadow: I have to admit I like the plot more than its characters, but also like playing with as an orc (even though the storyline didn't do justice to Orc MC on book one)
- Crimes of Passion: even tho I haven't finished playing it, I looooove a good mystery/thriller/horror book, it's great to play as an adult MC who's actually good at what they do and it's the only single LI book I played in which the LI is worth all the hype;
- Guinevere: also haven't finished playing it, but I love a good period book with a good dose of fantasy. Plus, Arthur is the sweetest;
- Desire & Decorum: NGL after book one, there were so many filler scenes on books two and three, but I was* too madly in love with my Ottoman Prince and liked 90% of the characters to give up on the story ¯⁠\⁠_⁠(⁠ツ⁠)⁠_⁠/⁠¯
*"was..." I said, as if Hamid doesn't live in my mind rent free since 2018... 😏
Tagging @choicesfandomappreciation
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I’ve never read moby dick in my entire life but seeing you post about it so much made me want to give it a try! any warnings before I go into it? :D
oh my god gbskxjs okay first of all im honored that my mad posting has had this effect :DD!! you are so powerful for this, genuinely 💙💙
and secondly YEAH ok i can absolutely give some warnings!!!! this answer got long tho so I'm gonna put it under the cut 🐳💙
Firstly: the main thing most people struggle with in Moby Dick (myself included) is how utterly rambley the narrator is.
there WILL be pages upon chapters at a time where he simply Cannot get to the point, which is frustrating!!! something that helped me to keep in mind, though, is that Ishmael is doing that on purpose to avoid having to relive his trauma. It helped me to think of his whale rants as either a friend infodumping, or a desperate plea for the story to stop repeating.
if that doesn't help, you can always look up a summary for a chapter to see if there's any plot you'll miss by skipping it lmao
The Racism. This is a novel written by a white man in the early 1800s. There is some bullshit in this.
Although Melville does try to be conscious abt race and stereotypes, and has a very diverse cast, he still majorly fucks up. He regularly refers to several major characters as "s*vage", uses outdated terminology for Black people, throws out all sorts of shitty descriptors for folks, and rarely lets the characters of color speak for themselves. It's important to be aware of that going in.
This one is a weird dichotomy though, bc like. on one hand. all of that is infuriating. but on the other hand, the love interest of the narrator is literally a Pasifika man who is a gorgeous character that undercuts a ton of stereotypes and is allowed to be a nuanced person with a life that exists outside of the white characters. There's several characters of color who get to be People and have nuanced experiences and vibrant lives!! Pip and Tashtego and arguably Ahab himself are all fascinatingly nuanced folks that are not entirely bound by stereotypes!!
However comma, there's also an entire character who isn't allowed to exist outside of "evil zoroastrian stereotype" so hgbbjggbngmdhhf. it's a whole thing. Be aware of it.
Animal death — this is a book about whaling gbsjfjjf
Seriously though a significant portion of the book is dedicated to violently killing and then harvesting the corpses of whales. It does get sad! Some whales are killed more brutally than others. There is gore.
Rope violence/strangulation
This is just a safe one to mention. Lots of shit goes wrong with the rigging/harpoon lines in the book. Several characters are seriously injured or killed directly due to this.
Suicidal themes/tragedy
The first chapter literally starts off the book with this gbskfjwjd but it is a present theme throughout, and especially in regards to the final tragedy. A significant portion of the story involves characters thinking that they have no choices left but to die.
In tandem with that, this book is a tragedy. Like a "everybody dies" kind of tragedy. Do not go into this story thinking that you're getting a happy ending out of it LMAO. there's love and joy and good times within the story, but it ultimately ends in tragedy.
This is a long ass post, but hopefully it's thorough enough to give you answers!!! On the more uplifting side: I did have a fantastic time reading this. The characters are all super compelling, the queer rep is incredible for the time, the narrative is truly awesome, and it genuinely left a huge impact on me. It definitely earns its place as a masterpiece of American literature imo.
I will also note that if you would prefer to engage with an adaptation of MobyDick that is not narratively racist to its characters, generally more accessible, and also gorgeous, I will always recommend @pocketsizedquasar 's Moby Dick (Or, The Webcomic)! It is, as of yet, unfinished, but they're currently releasing pages weekly, and it's what got me to read the book in the first place. There's a ton of heart here.
But yea thanks for reading this long ass ramble, and definitely do whatever you need to keep yourself safe! 💙💙💙 happy reading if you choose to!!! :D 🐳
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forcefemd · 1 year
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can u make a plane tier list? pleaseeeee tell us what makes your faves better than others
for u ofc <3
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my favourite plane of all time ever is the a310? shown here in the 80's airbus house livery which is one of my favourite paint schemes too..its such a strange choice of mine i realize because it isn't really a like, revolutionary design or anything? it's just a shortened a300, which introduced all of the new avionics & fly by wire and popularised the twin engine configuration. i suppose i just like how she looks in a weird instinctive way, small and chubby. it looks very safe and nonthreatening. the perfect proportions for a plane. <3
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second favourite l1011 because...come on. shown in psa livery which is top 3 also for sure. catch our smile! ::-) the story behind it is fascinating as a historian - rolls royce going bankrupt and being nationalised..by the fucking conservatives. hysterical. i love the s-duct on the rear engine, such a gorgeous bit of engineering. the RB211's are so nicely proportioned, too. it's a little tragic, honestly, which endears me to her more. this revolutionary new airliner that could fly ground to ground without either pilot touching a control column sold...like 200 units because of fucking mcdonnell douglas beating them to market with a simmilar jet by 6 months. also, the avionics bay under the cockpit was called the "hellhole" and i just think that's great. awesome to have something called a hellhole on your airplane.
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3rd fav has to be the 747..pictured here me 4(?!) years ago swooning over the first one they ever did build. N7470 city of everett i <3 u. what is there to say really, literally THE face of aviation, the queen of the skies, the jumbo jet, etc. flying on one, let alone on the top deck is a dream, to the point at which i'm seriously considering booking with lufthansa (i think one of like 3 commercial airlines still running them?) and turning a 7 hour trip to a 16 hour one when i go to maine later this year.
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punchdrunkdoc · 2 years
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Updated K-drama list (9)
Wow, its been a WHILE since I’ve done one of these! I haven’t watched as many new shows as I’d have liked in the past couple of years (my watchlist is out of control!) but I thought it was time to add them here. Its mostly for my benefit, so I can keep track of what I’ve seen, but if you’re looking for recommendation or you’re a newby to Kdramas wondering where to start, I hope this helps! 
The GREAT (i.e. my top 21 - I couldn’t narrow it down to an even 20!)
1. Its Ok To Not Be Okay
A children’s author with antisocial personality disorder becomes obsessed with a handsome (but closed-off) carer in a mental health hospital. 
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I could (and already have) written loads about this show - it became my all-encompassing obsession for the 8 weeks it was on telly. I LOVE IT SO MUCH!! I had a feeling only 1 episode in that it might become my all-time favourite K-drama, and I was right. The quality never dropped for a moment, and it absolutely nailed the ending. 
I pretty much love everything about it - the whimsical, fairytale-esque tone, the music, the costumes, the supporting characters, the side-plots exploring different mental health issues, the humour, the set design, even the opening credits!
The two leads are so beautiful with SO MUCH chemistry that you could watch them read a phone book and it would be hot. But it became a real three-hander of a show, with the male lead’s autistic brother forming an integral part of the relationship dynamic. 
Honestly, I can’t do this show justice with such a short review - just WATCH IT!!
Male lead: Soooo handsome, quiet and compassionate but with a steel core; it’s so fun watching him come out of his shell. Actor also seen in (AASI): My Love from a Star (honestly, he didn’t make much of an impression in that show, but he was amazing in this - he conveys so much emotion with the most subtle facial movements)
Female lead: Absolutely fascinating; so wounded and vulnerable, but projecting this awesome, no-fucks-given, blunt-as-hell exterior. Actress also seen in (AASI): Lawless Lawyer, Hwarang (minor character)
2. Crash Landing on You
He’s from North Korea. She’s from South Korea. They never should have met, but they’ll change each other’s lives.
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This was my first K-drama, and although it’s been knocked off the top spot, it’s still fantastic. Its the full package - the entire cast of characters is great, the lead romance is ANGSTALICIOUS and its genuinely, laugh out loud funny (when its not making you cry or swoon). I’ve since discovered that they had a North Korean defector as a consultant working on the show, so apparently the NK scenes are fairly accurate which is SUPER interesting.
Male lead: Officially the best boyfriend ever - absolutely nails the small, romantic gestures. AASI: Hyde, Jekyll & Me.
Female lead: Smart, sassy, and funny. I love her.
3. Red sleeve - NEW ENTRY
A court romance between the leader of Joseon - who believes his duty is to his country first above love - and a headstrong court lady who wants to protect the life she has chosen
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This is, without doubt, the best historical Kdrama I’ve ever seen. Sorry, Love in the Moonlight, you’ve been kicked out of the top 10!
The whole thing is beautifully made, from the gorgeous music and cinematography, to the fully realised characters, to the slow-burn pace of the heart-wrenchingly beautiful, bittersweet love story. Speaking of the which, I didn’t realise when I started the show that it was based on a true story. I ended up googling the ending, and I’m glad I did, because it helped prepare me for the last episode (top tip: If you want a happy ending I’d advise skipping that episode; but if you enjoy crying for 90mins straight, watch it). The two leads of the show are phenomenal - especially Lee Jun-Ho. He will tear your heart out.
Male lead - Has the weight of the world on his shoulders. You really feel it when he becomes torn between his duty and his heart. A brilliant performance. AASI: Just between lovers. 
Female lead: Funny and clever with a core of steel. You can absolutely see how she steals the King’s heart. 
4. W - Two worlds
A surgeon gets sucked into the world of her father’s webtoon when the main character’s life is threatened.
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This was a WILD ride! The first 4 episodes barrelled through plot at an amazing rate and certain events happen in episode 5 that had me wondering how the show could even continue! But it did…and the plot just got more insane! I loved this show SO much. It kept me guessing, had me on the edge of my seat, and even had room for some of my favourite romance tropes. The central relationship was great, and (because of the insane plot) you basically get 2 love stories for the price of 1. It keeps creeping up my rankings because its a show I come back to again and again. 
Male lead: Just a really, really cool guy. Can’t think of how else to describe him! Always in control, calm, unflappable, analysing the situation….but he can break out the cocky charm when needed. AASI: While you were sleeping, Doctor Stranger
Female lead: I really liked her - she had more agency than a lot of other female heroines and I really related to her freaked-out panic in the beginning when she didn’t feel like she was a capable enough doctor to save a life.
5. Itaewon Class
A young man’s life is forever altered when he runs afoul of a powerful family.
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This felt like a big step up in quality from everything else in this list, in terms of the production, soundtrack (which was brilliant), the lack of twee sound effects, and just the overall ‘real world’ feel of the show. All of the characters were fleshed out and 3-dimensional, and they all had their ‘moment’ to shine. The story itself was gripping and so well done - some of the twists and reveals had me gasping! And what can I say about the 2 leads? I love them, both separately, and together. He is so wise beyond his years, and his journey will break your heart and inspire you. She is borderline sociopathic, but I adore her.
Male lead: Tenacious, principled, kind, innocent, caring, driven, loyal…and he can cook! AASI: What’s wrong with secretary Kim, Fight for my way, Hwarang (and soon to be part of the MCU!)
Female lead: One of the most original Kdrama female characters I’ve seen. Plus she retains her agency all the way through, which is (unfortunately) not always the case with these shows. 
6. Healer
The lives, and pasts, of a hot shot reporter, a spunky young tabloid journalist and a mysterious thief-for-hire intersect.
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I ADORE this show and its so rewatchable. The plot was tight and engaging, and this is one of the few shows I’ve watched where there didn’t seem to be a lot of filler. The central 3 characters are great, and the romance was amazing. I especially loved that the male lead started off such a brooding loner, but he became super-affectionate as soon as he admitted his feelings. So many good hugs and lots of face-cradling in this one. There’s also a great riff on the Superman/Clark Kent dynamic which was fun!
Male lead: Effortlessly beats up 2 henchmen while comforting his girl over the phone. What more do you need? AASI: The K2, Suspicious Partner, Melting me softly, Backstreet Rookie, Lovestruck in the City
Female lead: She doesn’t let her vulnerabilities stop her from getting the story or being with the man she loves. AASI: What’s wrong with secretary Kim, I’ll go to you when the weather is nice, Her private life
7. While you were sleeping
Not to be confused with the Sandra Bullock rom-com from the 90s. Instead, this is about a young woman who can dream the future, who has her fate changed by a young prosecutor who suddenly develops the same ability
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I was thoroughly and utterly charmed by this show. Everything was so beautifully done - from the cinematography, to the music (OMG the music!), even the title cards were interesting and quirky. The characters were all great - the main leads are so sweet and relatable, the second lead is cute-as-a-button, the villain is properly hissable, and none of the supporting characters/extras annoyed me! The storyline itself was brilliant, with so many great set-ups, pay-offs and twists, and the romance was lovely.
Male lead: A bit of a hot mess of a human being (basically, the polar opposite of his character in W!)…but all the more loveable for it. AASI: W: 2 worlds, Doctor stranger.
Female lead: Smart, sweet, loyal (I really loved her relationship with her mum) and quietly brave.
8. Descendants of the Sun
A special forces Captain meets a capable and beautiful trauma surgeon. They feel an instant bond, but their jobs and philosophy on life get in the way, threatening to tear them apart.
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I absolutely LOVE the male lead character, and the romance in this was beautiful (as was the bromance!). Plus its chock-full of CompetencePorn, with lots of scenes of people being really, really good at their jobs (this is one of my favourite things!). However, it didn’t quite nail the angst, and the last minute was a bit twee which dropped it down the rankings a bit.
Male lead: A cocky, charming, absolute BADASS with the most adorable, cheeky smile. AASI: Vincenzo
Female lead: Sweet and a bit out of her depth in the dangerous situations…but put her in charge of a patient and watch her go!
9. What’s Wrong with Secretary Kim
A personal assistant decides to quits her job in order to get a life. Her boss has other ideas.
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This was my first Park Seo Joon drama, and he’s great in it. He somehow turns a self-centred, entitled and vain boss into an endearing character! The central romance is amazing - I can rewatch their scenes again and again - and its a bit more mature than some of the others on this list (be sure to check out the extended scene!!). It has some of the best kisses in Kdrama.
Male lead: Like I said, somehow makes vanity and narcissism endearing. Also not afraid to get his shirt off and flash his 6-pack. Bonus. AASI: Itaewon Class, Fight for my way, Hwarang
Female lead: I’m a sucker for uber-competent people so I loved this character. Park Min Young has become one of my favourites, and she is STUNNING in this. AASI: I’ll go to you when the weather is nice, Healer, Her private life
10. Alchemy of Souls - NEW ENTRY
In a world of magic and soul-shifting, a powerful female assassin agrees to be Master to a young, irreverent mage. 
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Wow. This was fantasy drama done realllllllly well. The world-building was excellent (you easily come to understand the rules and limitations of the sorcery used) and the effects and imagery were great. The love story at the heart is wonderful - it helps casting Lee Jae-wook who is effortlessly cheeky and charming, but when he flexes his power, he looks ultra-cool. There are more episodes coming in December (Thank God! The ending of S1 nearly broke me!) so I’ll have to see if they stick the landing. 
Male lead: His laidback, irreverant facade hides a deep hurt, and a powerful, righteous soul. I love him. AASI: Extraordinary you (seond lead), Do Do Sol Sol La La Sol,  When the Weather is Nice (supporting character)
Female lead: I love her too! She’s stern and uncompromising, but when she finally opens her heart and learns to love, you just want all the good things for her. AASI: Because This is My First Life
11. Flower of Evil - NEW ENTRY
A police detective starts to suspect her loving husband may be a killer.
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This was a fantastic character study, mystery and exploration of a relationship. The suspense almost killed me at times! I’m usually more of a fan about stories that take place at the beginning of a relationship rather than 14 years in, but I became so invested in them as a family. The choral music is a bit overwrought at times, but that’s one of my only complaints. I could never have imagined where they took things in the last episode but it was really good and an interesting way to further explore the character (I thought it would be cheesy, but it was so well done). Plus the most adorable little girl EVER stars in this.
Male lead: His struggles to desperately keep his family together (even though he didn’t fully understand the feelings they inspired in him) was heartbreaking - he is soooo good in this. AASI: Lawless Lawyer, Scarlet Heart
Female lead: Competent and compassionate. You’re heart aches for her when her world starts to fall apart. 
12. Love in the Moonlight / Moonlight Drawn by Clouds
A young woman poses as a eunuch in the Royal Palace and falls in love with the Crown Prince
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This was the first period piece I watched and it’s still one of my favourites - almost entirely because of the male lead and his beautiful face! The start had a really light, comedic tone (and a lot of modern anachronisms - high fives everywhere!) and I loved all the identity-concealing hi-jinks. But then the romance kicked into gear and the DELICIOUS angst started flowing, and I became obsessed with it. It’s like loads of bits of my favourite regency historical romances were mashed up and transported to the Joseon Dynasty. I loved it so much!
Male lead: Manages to look amazingly handsome despite all the period headgear, kicks ass with a sword, and doesn’t allow himself to be manipulated by the corrupt officials surrounding him. Also acts like an adorable goofball when he’s in love.
Female lead: Loved her at the start - she’s scrappy and independent and capable. Unfortunately, becomes too much of a plot device by the end. AASI: Backstreet Rookie
13. I’ll Go to You When the Weather is Nice / I’ll Find You on a Beautiful Day
A cellist disillusioned with life in Seoul returns to her small home town for the winter.
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This was achingly sweet and wonderful. The slow unfolding of the story, the beautiful scenery, and the simple yet moving score all combine to make this feel like the type of small town contemporary romance novel I love to read on a rainy day in front of a fire. Whilst long-held, painful secrets are eventually revealed, there is no massive conflict involved, with no antagonist or over-wrought external drama. Its just the tale of two sad, lonely people who have withdrawn from the world forming a connection with each other and trying to overcome their issues (she has a fear of abandonment; he’s a loner who has a tendency to disappear). As a bonus, there’s a bookclub with a wonderful cast of secondary characters - I wanted to spend more time with all of them.
Male Lead: Precious Cinnamon Roll, to be protected at all costs. AASI: Are you human too
Female lead: Wears her heart on her sleeve. Refreshingly, she’s the instigator of the relationship and isn’t the usual passive, coy female. AASI: What’s wrong with secretary Kim, Healer, Her private life
14. Goblin
A 900yr old immortal guardian finally meets the ‘bride’ who will end his existence
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Once I got over the slight ick-factor of the age difference between the two characters at the beginning, I really fell for this show and it’s world. It had me in floods of tears at some points, and it was laugh out loud funny at others. I especially loved the secondary character of the Grim Reaper and his reluctant bromance with the Goblin.
Male lead: Surprising innocent and funny for a 900 year old
Female lead: Also innocent, but in some ways wise beyond her years. Her tears will make you cry (the actress is very good at sobbing her heart out!). AASI: The King, eternal monarch
15. Legend of the Blue Sea
A mermaid comes onto land to find the man she loves
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The (literal) fish-out-of-water scenes in the first half of this show were hilarious - the actress is a comic genius! The romance was nicely done, and there wasn’t a lot of extraneous plot or too many characters. It also nicely incorporates scenes from the Joseon era, so you get a partial historical romance thrown in for free!
I couldn’t stop watching this one and I’ve since rewatched it too! Definitely one to check out.
Male lead: Cocky, arrogant conman with a soft mushy centre. AASI: The King, Eternal monarch, Heirs.
Female lead: Steals the show - funny, smart and beautiful. AASI: My love from the Star.
16. Into the Ring/The Ballot
An out-of-work young woman decides to run for office and faces all sorts of challenges in her quest to right some wrongs and earn a living.
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This show has one of my favourite ever female characters - she’s headstrong, hard working, and quick to violence but so cute and charming with the most adorable laugh! She tries to act all cynical (that she’s only in it for the money) but she is actually really caring and kind. I sooo wanted her to succeed against the establishment of corrupt assholes that she worked with. Seeing her become disillusioned with politics and her colleagues was heartbreaking, and watching her fight back was great.
Her dynamic with the male lead was also great - he’s quietly in awe of her even when he’s exasperated and borderline scared of her.  And he’s super supportive. It was so much fun watching her drag him out of his monotonous, dull life. They also weren’t stingy with the PDA which was so refreshing.
On a superficial level, the show was also visually interesting, with loads of cool angles and blue lens flare. And the overall light, funny tone made it so watchable. 
Male lead: Adorkable
Female lead: The literal embodiment of sunshine and determination. I have a bit of a crush on her!
17. The King: Eternal Monarch
The reigning King of the Kingdom of Corea discovers a gateway to a parallel world - the Republic of Korea
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This is the first drama I’ve watched in ‘real time’ but I think it would work better as a binge - there are a LOT of characters, and many have dopplegangers (because of the parallel world thing) so it became hard to keep track of who was who. I also think the progression of the romance is better appreciated in a binge (I wrote about it here - ignore the speculation; i got it so wrong LOL!). Unfortunately, the plot also had major holes in it (the ‘rules’ for the gateway/magical flute didn’t make sense) and It was difficult at times to differentiate Corea from Korea - a major failing of the editing.  
Buuuuuut, it still made my ‘Great’ list because all of those issues were outweighed by the sheer epicness of this show. The gorgeous sets, the dramatic scenery, the ANGST-filled, beautiful romance…at one point the King rides a majestic white horse into battle with a sword on a neon-lit highway to save the woman he loves. I mean, come on! Plus, its really funny - the ‘fish out of water’ scenes when the King first arrives in Korea, the chalk and cheese dopplegangers Yeong and Eun-Seob, the King’s constant threats of beheading…I loved those elements so much!
Male lead:  Gives Ri Jeong-Hyeok from CHOY a run for his money in the ‘Best Boyfriend’ competition.  AASI: Legend of the blue sea, Heirs.
Female lead: A bad-ass cop. Takes a while to believe Lee Gon’s story, but once she decides to go all in…she goes all in, and loves unreservedly with her whole heart. AASI: Goblin
18. Tomorrow with you 
A time-traveller struggling to live in the present meets a woman trying to let go of her past.
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This reminded me a bit of ‘I’ll go to you when the weather is nice’ in terms of the melancholic tone, the simple but effective music, and the beautiful lighting etc. There were also some really interesting, innovative shots which I appreciated.
It took a few episodes to get into and it was a bit frustrating in the middle - so much could have been solved if people just TALKED to each other!! Plus the rules for this version of time travel weren’t really clear…But the last few episodes were brilliant; the way the story came together, and all the little bits of set up were paid off was really well done. These episodes alone were enough to bump this up to the ‘Great’ category (especially, given there was a bit of a Lake House vibe at one point - I’m a sucker for that movie). The romance was also beautifully portrayed; I could endlessly watch their domestic scenes - they had such good chemistry and banter.
Male lead: Absolutely, but endearingly, terrible at relationships. He ends up falling in love against his will and largely without realising it.
Female lead: A bit of a mess and a borderline alcoholic, but so cute and innocent. I love the way she talks to herself, she’s so funny! AASI: Oh My Venus
19. Fight for my Way
Two life-long friends decide to go after their dreams
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I fast-forwarded large chunks of this (I wasn’t interested in the secondary couple at all), but it still made my ‘Great’ list because this is one of the best friends-to-lovers stories I’ve seen. You truly buy that these 2 have known each other their entire lives (their  bickering and teasing feels so natural). And then when they take the next step, they’re so affectionate and refreshingly open with their feelings. Speaking of which, this also has some great kissing scenes (Park Seo Joon is the master!)
Male lead: I love his contradictions. He’s goofy and childish…but can really turn on the sexy charm; he’s a badass MMA fighter…who loves when his girlfriend sticks up for him and protects him. AASI: What’s wrong with secretary Kim, Itaewon class, Hwarang
Female lead: Takes no shit from anyone and will fight for her man! AASI: Descendants of the sun (secondary character)
20. Vincenzo - NEW ENTRY
A Korean man raised in the Italian mafia to be a mob lawyer returns to Seoul with some ulterior motives.
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This has the strange tone typical of Kdramas - one minute its a goofy comedy, the next some truly dark violence is going down - and it pulls it off really well.  The cast is all great, it was a unique story, and the male lead was charismatic as always. The story is not romance heavy - its got more of a found family vibe - but I still enjoyed it. It dragged a bit in the latter half, but that half contained some genuinely great moments. This is also the only kdrama my aunt and uncle have ever watched and they became obsessed with it. 
Male lead: Slick, dangerous and charming, with a heart of gold that he tries REALLY hard to hide. AASI: Descendents of the sun.
Female lead: Loud and ballsy with some questionable ethics - so not the typical Kdrama female! She was great. 
21. Suspicious Partner
A young, hardworking lawyer has her life turned upside down when she is put on trial for murder.
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This was officially bumped up the list a while ago, and I stand by the decision. Its still overly long, but the serial killer plot had some nice twists and it was central to the story, so it didn’t feel extraneous like some of these types of plots do. Mainly, I just loved the central romance - the 2 characters sparked off each other so well and I loved their evolution from sort-of enemies to lovers. This is another show where I can endlessly rewatch their scenes together.
Male lead: Its Ji Chang Wook! He’s so good at playing serious guys who are secretly big dorks. AASI: Healer, The K2, Melting me softly, Backstreet Rookie, Lovestruck in the City
Female lead: Fate deals her a shitty hand, but she perseveres with grace and determination. She’s great. AASI: Shopaholic Louis, 100 days my prince.
The GOOD (in no particular order)
Lovestruck in the city - NEW ENTRY
A documentary-style tale of different couples in Seoul
I loved the premise of this, and, unsually, I was just as invested in the secondary relationships as the main pair (they even introduced a final couple in the final episode and had me rooting for them - which is a testament to the good casting and chemistry). I have to admit I went off Chi Chang-wook after Backstreet Rookie (I loathed that show so much!) but he won me back here. Jae Won is such a charming mess!
Bring it on Ghost - NEW ENTRY
A man who can see ghosts starts working with one
I officially became an Ok Taecyeon fan after this - he’s adorable. The show is fun and rolicks along at a good pace. The central romance is really sweet with lovely angsty moments. Would definitely recommend. 
I Am Not a Robot
A man who is allergic to human contact finds companionship with a robot…or does he?
I honestly thought I wouldn’t make it passed a couple of episodes of this - the concept was just too ridiculous. But I’m glad I persevered, because it developed some real depth and some proper good angst towards the end and I LOVED the central relationship. I’ve rewatched loads of this one.
I Remember You
A famous criminal profiler gatecrashes the investigation of a serial killer, hoping it will restore the missing memories of his childhood trauma
I really liked the set up of this - the lead character is introduced like a young Sherlock Holmes (the music even reminded me of the score for the BBC Sherlock series). The super-observant, socially awkward thing kind of dropped off as the series progressed, but I still enjoyed how the plot developed, especially with Park Bo-Gum’s character; I’ve only ever seen him play innocent cutie-pies, so this role was a bit of a surprise!
The female lead was like an anime character come to life (she was petite and cute with enormous eyes), but I also loved her personality; she was tenacious, and dogged and took no shit from anyone. She had a cute, antagonistic relationship with the profiler at the start (which I loved) which eventually led to some really sweet, touching moments. 
Hotel del Luna 
A hotel for wandering spirits gets a new human manager - and he forms a surprising connection to the enigmatic 1300 year old owner
If I had to describe this show in one word it would be ’lavish’. It’s a feast for the eyes - from the set design, to the costumes, to the CGI views of the hotel towering over the moon-lit Seoul cityscape, its stunning. It also plays with aspect ratios in a cool way (watch for the shots where the action spills over into the black bars top and bottom of the screen).
In terms of the characters, I really liked IU in this; her character may be uncaring, world-weary, and money-hungry, but she’s also immensely charming. I admit I got more platonic vibes with her and the male lead, but I still liked their relationship. I also really liked the stories of the ghosts passing through (some reduced me to tears with very little screen time) and there were a couple of GREAT cameos. Especially the one at the very end - I want more of him, please!!
My Holo Love
A lonely woman falls for a holographic AI and then meets his creator…
I love the concept of this show (I’m a big sci-fi nerd), and I think this stayed in my ‘favourite’ list for so long because it was the first Kdrama of this genre that I saw. I still love it - especially because of how beautifully it’s shot, and how well the story comes together - but I’m not dying to rewatch any of it, unlike all the others shows that are now on the ‘great’ list.
Extraordinary You
A high school student discovers she’s a supporting character in a comic book
The plot of this was so cool, and the way the comic story played out interspersed with the characters ‘real lives’ was really well done. Plus the central couple were so adorable. It dragged in the middle section (several versions of the same conversations were had, and the same exposition was spelled out multiple ways for no apparent reason) which kept it out of my favourite list, but it redeemed itself with some good angst at the end, and it had a really lovely ‘epilogue’.
Just Between Lovers
Three people impacted by a tragic shopping mall collapse start working on a building project together, unaware of their shared past.
I absolutely adore the male lead in this - he is the archetypal tortured hero (I constantly wanted to give him a hug and a warm meal). He’s also wonderfully romantic in his own, straightfoward, no-nonsense way. The female lead was really likeable - l love capable women and she is the definition of that (she even drives a lorry at one point!). There’s a lot of pain and angst in this show, with very little levity, but it strangely never felt heavy. I really liked it. 
Strong Girl Bong-Soon
A woman with inherited super-strength gets a job as a bodyguard for an eccentric young CEO
The lead couple in this are AD-OR-ABLE and I loved their relationship. But there was a weird tone issue in this show. The romance is super cute…but there’s a whole dark sub plot involving multiple women being held captive by a psychopath, and a really grating cast of ‘bad guy’ extras. I ended up fast forwarding most of that, and just concentrated on the romance - If someone could do a supercut of all their scenes, I would watch it on a loop.
30 but 17/Still 17
A 17 year old girl gets into an accident and wakes from a coma 13 years later.
I was worried going into this that the romance (between a 30 year old man and (essentially) a 17 year old girl) would feel icky and uncomfortable. But the writers made the wise choice of creating a 30 year old man with the emotional maturity of a 17 year old. He is so awkward and unworldly, that they actually work really well together. In fact, I loved their relationship. The secrets in this show took faaaar too long to be revealed, which made me worried that the eding would be too rushed, but there was actually time for a nice ‘epilogue’. Plus, all the supporting characters were great (including the wonderfully weird housekeeper Jennifer) and the cutest dog in the world was in this. So I definitely recommend it.  
Hometown cha cha cha - NEW ENTRY
A big city dentist opens a practice in a seaside town and clashes with the local jack-of-all-trades.
This hooked me and made me look forward to the weekends even more so I could get my fix. The story is slight (slice-of-life type thing) but the characters had me engaged and it was an enemies - friends - lovers story which is my catnip.
The male lead was such an intriguing character and the female lead has charm in spades. The romantic scenes bordered on far too cheesy but you can understood why (this was basically their first relationship) so I let it slide. Lovely cast of supporting characters. 
Nevertheless - NEW ENTRY
Two art students embark on a friends-with-benefits relationship.
I binged  this in one weekend. It reminded me of the slightly trashy YA romances that are my gulity pleasure - where the innocent girl falls for the college Fuckboy. You know she shouldn’t end up with him, but you can’t resist their chemistry.  The male lead’s character remained a mystery even by the end of the show, and he really only started to show any semblance of feelings in the last episode, which was a let down. He was so underdeveloped which was a shame, because this show really captured my attention otherwise - in large part because I’m not used to this storyline in Kdramas. There is lots of sex! Actual removal of clothes occurs (and there’s a lovely montage of the main couple sharing a bed which was a visual highlight). So overall I enjoyed it - not least for the side romances - every one of which worked for me (which is unusual). 
Da-Li and the Cocky Prince - NEW ENTRY
A down-on-her luck art curator teams up with a noveau rich ex-thug to save her father’s art museum.
This is the poor girl meets arrogant rich guy trope - but with a twist. She used to be rich and he used to be poor. This leads to a great dynamic between them. His character on paper (an uncultured money-obssessed ex-thug who has a great head for business) is elevated so much by the charm of the actor - you really root for him and his attempts to fit in to this new world. Would recommend!
Mystic Pop-up Bar
As punishment for past sins, a woman must solve the grudges of 100,000 people by entering their dreams
This was an unexpected delight. I started watching it after spotting a cute gifset on tumblr (which I didn’t realise contained huge spoilers!). The story and tone is (mostly) light and quirky, and I particularly enjoyed the worldbuilding - the banal bureaucracy of the afterlife in this even reminds me a bit of The Good Place. I’m a sucker for a ‘found family’ theme and this one was done really nicely. It also had 2 main ships - one really cute and innocent, the other took me by surprise with how moving it was. Similarly, some of the episode-specific stories and characters (i.e. the individual grudges) made me tear up.  
100 days my prince
A Prince loses his memory during an assassination attempt and ends up living as a peasant for 100 days.
Another period piece; the plots of these seem a little repetitive (Crown prince’s life is threatened by scheming Minister) but the  central cast and the romance usually makes up for it. Same for this show - I really enjoyed watching the spoiled, grumpy puppy of a Prince try to cope with manual labour, and the female lead was capable, and endearing.
True beauty - NEW ENTRY
Starting at a new school, a bullied ‘ugly’ girl reinvents herself with the help of makeup
This was really cute! I love Cha Eun-woo in anything and whilst this was similar in theme to one of his other shows (Gangnam beauty) I still enjoyed it on its own merits. He is so cute and charming and his dynamic with the female lead carried the show. The second lead also grew on me, but I wish they hadn’t dragged out the love triangle quite so much. 
Weightlifting Fairy Kim Bok-Joo
A young talented weightlifter experiences first love
Honestly, I wasn’t sold on this at first; the female lead was a bit much (lot of gurning and over-acting) and there was a weird disconnect between how she was described (big, overweight, manly, unfeminine) and how she actually looked (thin and beautiful!). But the back half of this show saved it; her relationship with Joon-Hyung was sooooo cute. He is adorable, and they were both so supportive of each other’s dreams. I finished this with a big smile on my face.
Are You Human Too
A mother separated from her son builds a robotic replacement. Decades later, he has to take the place of the ‘real’ son.
I loved the evolution of the robot in this - it never went the way of a full Pinnochio story, but it was fun to see him learning about the real world and how humans interact. It also posed some interesting questions - what does it mean to be human? And how would you react if you were ‘replaced’ by an artificial version?  
The actor in this was fantastic. The way he could change from the real Nam Shin to Nam Shin III with the most subtle shifts in posture and facial expression was really impressive. It took me longer to warm to the female lead, and by the end she was given very little to do…but her unflinching support and unconditional love for Nam Shin III won me over.  Some of the supporting characters didn’t work for me, and it was far too long…but worth a watch for the lead actor’s performance. Plus, Nam Shin III is an absolute cutie-pie.
Shopaholic Louis/ Shopping King Louis
The young, shopaholic heir to a large department store empire loses his memory and has to live as a poor man 
The male lead in this is an absolute puppy dog and I ADORE him. He squeals when he sees bugs, he can’t run to save his life, and he’s the type of guy who will punch someone and immediately apologise and ask if they’re ok. He’s spoilt, entitled, demanding and has no concept of the value of money…but thanks to the actor portraying him, he just comes across as innocent, sweet and lonely (he spends all his time shopping and accumulating stuff because they fills up his empty life). The female lead is just a really nice, kind person; at first Louis seems like he’ll be just one more burden she needs to take care of, but he makes it clear from the start that she can count on him to help her too - something she’s never had before. Their relationship develops so naturally and thoroughly that you cant help but feel they are perfect for each other. I watched this with a big smile on my face.
Oh My Venus 
The previously much-lusted after ‘Venus of Daegu’ fulfilled her dream of becoming a lawyer - but she gained weight and lost her self esteem in the process. 
I adored the female lead - she was so relentlessly bright and optimistic that you couldn’t help but love her and root for her. I was a bit worried going in that there was going to be a lot of fat-shaming, but the male lead made it clear that he was more interested in her internal health than her external appearance (and you could tell he started to fall for her when she was chubby, so it wasn’t superficial in that way). I wasn’t expecting for him to become so much of the focus in the second half of the show (I thought he was just going to be a hunky trainer;  I should have known better - in a Kdrama there is always a Tragic Backstory looming!). Their relationship was so natural and cute - the bit with the dimples never got old - and overall, this was a fun, easy watch.
A Piece of your Mind
A classical music recording engineer meets an AI designer.
I struggled to sum-up the concept of this in one sentence, because the ‘plot’ is so arbitrary (and the AI stuff makes no sense whatsoever!). It’s really more of a mood piece - the lighting, the music and the performance combine to make this a strangely ethereal show, dealing with unrequited love, grief and the importance of human connection. It’s slow and contemplative and a little odd in its structure (there’s very little set-up, so you feel like you’ve been dropped into episode 3 of an established show). This may put some people off, but I really liked it. 
I started watching it because of the leads (who I’ve loved in other shows) and they didn’t disappoint. She is so kind and lovely; he’s a little odd - like a robot learning about life. But their relationship is so beautiful (it even included one of my favourite niche tropes: insomniacs who can only sleep around each other). 
Apparently the episode run was cut down from 16 to 12 because of poor ratings, which is a real shame because i think a bit more time was needed to really sell the female lead’s emotional arc. It all felt a little rushed at the end, but I still enjoyed it, and admired that it tried something a little unconventional. 
Rookie Historian
An independent, educated woman choses to become one of the first female court historians, rather than get married.
This show had a really interesting premise and I enjoyed watching the rookie female historians navigate court-life (battling workplace harassment, misogyny and patriarchal values) and developing a real friendship with each other. 
The female lead was fantastic - she was headstrong, pragmatic, unapologetically intelligent, a lover of books and a hater of injustice. She shared that love of books with the male lead, who was sensitive, soft-spoken, and innocent. The ultimate beta hero, who’s romantic fantasies involved him feeding her cookies and fanning her while she sleeps! 
Their romance took a backseat for a lot of the show, but I didn’t mind as the plot was exploring interesting topics such as intruders from the West, catholicism, and censorship, etc.
Tempted/The Great Seducer
In an act of revenge, a wealthy heir makes a bet with his friends to seduce a hardworking female college student 
10 minutes into this I started to get major Cruel Intentions vibes…which made sense when I found out it was also an adaptation of Dangerous Liaisons! It doesn’t have the dark edge or overt sexuality of Cruel Intentions (which is one of my favs) but its still good - mainly due to the male lead. I ADORED him in TKEM and he’s really good here. I’m a sucker for the ‘bad boy falls in love for the first time’ trope and he played it so well. The female lead was also good - she was self-aware, strong, intelligent and took no shit. I was less interested by the love affairs of the adults around them, but overall it was a good show. 
The OK
My shy boss / Introverted boss
An extroverted actress takes a job at a PR company working for a man with crippling shyness
This was another deceptive show; I thought from the title and the synopsis that it would just be a light opposites attract comedy about an introverted man and an extroverted woman. But I was almost in tears by the second episode when the Tragic Backstory came to light, and we saw the full extent of the Boss’ struggles to communicate with other human beings. He has such a rich, funny, and smart inner monologue, and the way he overthinks every interaction is really endearing…which makes the contrast with his silent and withdrawn external persona all the more stark and heartbreaking. You really root for him to find happiness. This was overly long (a common pitfall with these shows) and there was some distracting shaky camera work in some of the close ups. There were also implications early on about workplace sexual harassment and possibly dubious consent in a one night stand which were dropped, leaving a bit of a sour note.  Despite that, it was overall fairly enjoyable and has one of the cutest confession scenes!
The OK
Because this is my First Life
A rational-to-a-fault software designer and an aspiring screenwriter come up with an unconventional way to solve their housing problem
When I started this, I thought it was going to be all light and fluffy (the main character’s job in the beginning was to insert the product placement in Korean dramas - hello, Red Ginseng! - which I found hilarious and meta) but it had a surprisingly melancholic tone throughout and touched on issues of workplace harassment and gender roles. I didn’t warm to the male lead until right at the end (which was probably partly intentional - he’s very remote and closed off) but overall I found the story quite lovely. Plus it had a really great central female friendship and their conversations actually passed the Bechdel test!
My Love from the Star
Alien stranded on earth meets an actress soon before he’s due to be rescued.
It took a couple of goes to get into this one, but I’m glad I finally watched the  whole thing (the female lead was initially very irritating, but she improved a lot). I enjoyed the present-day romance and all the flashes back to the past. However, the ending was really abrupt and disappointing (which kept it out of my favourite list). There should have been 1 less filler episode in the middle, and a decent, fleshed out finale instead.
The K2
An ex-mercenary takes a job as a bodyguard protecting the illegitimate daughter of a politician. A sort-of Snow White retelling.
This started off really well; there are some amazing fight sequences (hello, shower room scene!) and JCW has never been hotter - its worth watching for him alone. However, the back half became really bogged down in double crosses and manipulations, and it focussed too much on the politicians. The writers did well to give these characters some layers, but they were all essentially doing bad things for the wrong reasons, and I just didn’t care about them. The show was much better when it was following K2’s journey. The romance also started off well, but was a bit underdeveloped (mainly because they barely interacted).
Dol Dol Sol Sol La La Sol - NEW ENTRY
A sheltered, spoilt rich girl falls on hard times and is helped by a young man hiding a big secret.
I loved the bright, colourful, easy tone of this and the underlying story (which reminded me of Shopping King Louis). It has an equally innocent and charming lead who (on paper) should have been annoying and entitled. However, the twist after episode 4 (i think) really threw me and I wasn’t sure I could continue it. But I did.… only to encounter a ridiculous ending which somewhat soured me on the whole show. Watch if you’re a big fan of the central leads but be prepared to throw things at your TV.
Great Shaman Go Doo Shim - NEW ENTRY
A high school girl from a long line of Shamans reluctantly enters the family business to rid her new school of an evil spirit.
I watched this for the male lead - he’s played the younger version of so many of my favourite characters so I’ve been looking forward to his debut as a lead. He had really sweet chemistry with the female lead, who I’m also eager to see in other things. Overall, this show was short and slight, but cute. 
So I Married the Antifan - NEW ENTRY
An idol and a reporter star in a reality series where they pretend to be together.
I liked the bickering between the main couple at the start of this (who doesn’t love a good enemies-to-lovers trope!) and  the show had a good set up…but it ran out of steam a bit. The female lead became far too passive which started to get on my nerve. And the second couple were sooo annoying. Overall - a good central romance, but I probably won’t be rewatching this. 
He is psychometric - NEW ENTRY
A man with the gift of psychometry teams up with a police officer to solve an old crime
I loved the set up of this and the male lead is really likeable. But I wasn’t a fan of the big plot reveal towards the end - not because it wasn’t well executed, but because of how it impacted the characters. It spoiled a bit of my enjoyment. 
Bride of Habaek / Bride of the Water God
A God of the Land of Water visits the human realm to fulfil a task before ascending to his throne. He enlists the help of a ‘divine servant’, a down-on-her-luck psychiatrist.
I started this because I liked the lead actor. His baby-face can’t quite pull off the intensity needed for this role, but he was still cute as the arrogant, imperious God brought low by his circumstances - no money, house, powers or (most importantly to him) driving license. I also liked the female lead - she so desperately wanted to hide her kind, compassionate heart from a world that had battered and bruised her. There were some good individual scenes (especially the ‘confession’ moment, which was just lovely), but the show ran out of steam towards the end, and ultimately felt like a waste of potential.
Her Private Life
A talented art curator tries to keep her professional persona separate from her fangirl obsession with a pop idol.
This was cute and I loved the central relationship - he was so supportive of her, and their interactions were refreshingly mature and their banter felt really natural. Ultimately, it was a bit forgettable (I’m not dying to rewatch any of it), and the last minute tacked-on childhood trauma subplot was really unnecessary.
Touch Your Heart
Star actress rocked by scandal works at a law firm to prepare for her comeback role
This starred the secondary couple from Goblin and I really like them, even though they are playing very different characters in this (more opposites attract, than doomed lovers). It’s a bit too ‘cutesy’ and I had to fast forward a lot of the secondary romances which I wasn’t invested in.
My Secret Terrius
A secret agent on the run gets embroiled in the life of his next door neighbour - a mum of young twins.
The romance in this was underwhelming; the two characters ended in a really cute place, but it felt like set up for a story I probably would have liked more than this one. In saying that, this was still a relatively enjoyable watch; the female lead was great - she was constantly underestimated as ‘just a housewife’ but she was smarter, and more determined and resourceful than the spies around her. The male lead’s interactions with the twins were adorable, and there was a good cast of supporting characters. However, I’ve already pretty much forgotten the main espionage plot!
Where stars land - NEW ENTRY
A man who dreamed of being a pilot ends up working at the airport - and he hides an unusual secret.
I like the two main actors in this, which is the reason I started watching it. But (confession) I didn’t make any notes as I was watching the show and a year later I can’t remember a single thing that happened. I do recall that it was solidly made and I enjoyed watching it at the time…but it was obviously pretty forgettable!
Abyss - NEW ENTRY
Two friends are dragged into a plot surrounding a mysterious device - the Abyss.
This was a fun ride but ultimately a bit forgettable. The central conceit (you come back to life in a body that better reflects your soulI) was different and fun and the two leads getting used to their change in fortunes was amusing. They ultimately made a cute couple, but (as usual) I was less interested in the murder subplot.
Come and Hug Me - NEW ENTRY
A stoic policeman and a budding young actress share a past trauma
I liked the central relationship in this one (although the actor needed to blink more - it was so disconcerting!). But the father was a one-note hissable villain and the story was overly long and slooooow. Not one of my favs.
Strongest delivery man - NEW ENTRY
A delivery man who dreams of a better life.
I like an underdog story, so I had fun watching this. I also appreciated how the second lead could have been a typical villain but they made him so sympathetic and pitifiul (plus he was played by one of my new favs - Kim Seon-ho -  so I was rooting for him to be a better man). 
Business Proposal - NEW ENTRY
A case of mistaken identity leads to hijinks between a cold, aloof CEO and one of his employees
This was fun and passed the time, but was fairly slight. The male lead felt like a lesser-version of Park Seo-Joon from What’s Wrong with Secretary Kim? That show dealt with the story a cold, aloof businessman dealing with childhood trauma much better. But the female lead in this was a delight. 
Lawless Lawyer
A gangster-turned-lawyer moves to Gisung to take on corruption with the help of a suspended female attorney
I liked this more at the beginning; it reminded me a bit of Itaewon Class, with a charismatic lead, an intricately plotted revenge scheme that the audience only becomes aware of as the series progresses, and a take-no-shit female lead who was introduced hitting an authority figure! However, it never really gripped me (it took me weeks to finish) and a couple of the villains were overacting and hamming it up all over the place.  But I loved the two leads, and their relationship was good, despite feeling a bit rushed. 
1% of Something
To gain his inheritance, an arrogant, aloof CEO has to enter into a marriage contract with a sweet primary school teacher.
I liked how streamlined this was: it was just a show about two people who fall in love despite their best intentions. There was no overly complicated plot, and even the conflict that keeps them apart towards the end felt very organic and unforced. 
She is a delightful ball of sunshine. He is a little overbearing but has his own charm. And bear with the bad haircut and appalling fashion sense - he improves at the end!
Melting Me Softly
Two people are accidentally cryogenically frozen for 20 years. They have to navigate the modern world and their new lives together.
Another good concept, but it ultimately descended into little more than a light work-place romance. Had a couple of good kissing scenes, but it was overall a bit forgettable.
My Sassy Girl
A 'sassy’ princess meets an ambitious scholar in less than ideal circumstances…
I enjoyed the fact that this Joseon period drama focused on a Princess for a change, and not a prince. She came across as more 'obnoxious and immature’ than 'sassy’ in the beginning, but once it was made clear that she was actually a decent, kind person underneath, I soon warmed to her. I also liked the relationship with the male lead, which amounted to a pretty good enemies-to-lovers story. It took a bit of an unexpected turn right at the end, but my independent, feminine self was good with it. Overall, this was a pretty easy watch, but nothing special.
Hwarang
Follows a peasant who joins the newly-created Hwarang (Poet Warrior Youths in ancient Korea) to enact revenge for the death of his best friend
I enjoyed the scenes of the Hwarang hanging out and bonding - so many cute bromances in this! But I couldn’t really connect with the central story and romance, due to a major case of SLS (Second Lead Syndrome) - as much as I’m a fan of Park Seo-joon, I adore Park Hyung-sik, and I found his character, journey and relationship with the female lead much more compelling. The ending still managed to feel somewhat satisfying, but I won’t be rewatching any of it.
The BAD 
Hyde, Jekyll and Me
A woman becomes involved in the lives of 2 men, who share one body
Hyun Bin is sooo watchable in this, especially as the slick-haired, glasses-wearing, uptight Seo-Jin. And the show started well…but quickly went off the rails into a convoluted, dragged-out revenge plot. It was a bit of a slog to get through, to be honest.
Queen: Love and War
The long lost twin of a recently assassinated Queen assumes her identity to enter the Bridal selection to wed the resurrected King and seek revenge.
This was a bit of a mess (as you can tell from that synopsis!); it felt like the first few episodes were rushed through as a sort of ‘prologue’ before the main thrust of the story…but that prologue contained A LOT of plot with some major character revelations that were rapidly skimmed over (e.g. the female lead was introduced as having complete amnesia; but almost out of nowhere she casually mentions that she got all her memories back and now knows who she is). Because of this, it took me a while to get a sense of who the characters really were. A lot of the usual Joseon plot points played out (scheming ministers and untrustworthy queens) but it had some unique features - I especially enjoyed the bridal selection scenes and seeing the lead female outwitting her rivals in the various challenges. But ultimately, I fast forwarded a lot of this and it was pretty forgettable.
Backstreet Rookie
A struggling young woman takes a part-time job at the convenience store run by her high school crush. 
I was really not a fan of this show, and probably would have stopped watching if it wasn’t for Kim Yoo-jung. Her character was really likeable - kickass, but vulnerable, and so loving and kind. You were really rooting for her throughout.  The show also had some interesting things to say about inequality (there was a lovely scene between the male leads’s parents in episode 10 touching on this theme)…but that’s about it for the positives. 
Overall, it was just too OTT and manic and most of the characters were barely more than cartoonish caricatures. One character was actually repulsive, and the fact that he got his own romantic subplot was just gross. I’m a big fan of Ji Chang-wook, but I didn’t like some of his acting choices in this, and his character spent far too long in a relationship with another woman, which meant the main romance felt underdeveloped. 
And…it ended without a kiss. I was so pissed off! I put up with 16 episodes of crap, expecting a decent pay-off at the end…but no. I wouldn’t recommend this one. 
The UNCLASSIFIABLE
Moon Lovers: Scarlet Heart Ryeo
A modern girl is transported 1000 years into the past where she becomes embroiled in the lives of the Royal Princes.
I honestly don’t know where I stand with this one! Did I love it? Did I hate it? I seriously don’t know!
I was reluctant to start this (I knew it didn’t have a happy ending) but I was told its a rite of passage for KDrama newbies to watch this show. And there were some great things about it - the male lead was amazing! So intense and tragic, with the most arresting face. The music was also GORGEOUS, as was the scenery - the whole production felt very sumptuous. The palace intrigue stuff was also more compelling than most of the other historic dramas I’ve seen. I recognised several of the Princes from other shows, and I became really invested in 3 of them…which made the constant threat of them betraying each other/killing each other AGONISING. This show was heavy on the Emotional Torture Porn, and some of it felt gratuitous, because I just didn’t understand the motivations behind some of the plot points/character’s actions.
I also wasn’t a big fan of the female lead; partly because the actress only seemed to have 2 facial expressions to work with, but partly because and any hints that she was a modern girl with modern sensibilities quickly disappeared. It was this independence and spunk that made all the princes fall for her (to varying degrees) but she lost all of that and it left me wondering why they bothered with the time travel aspect at all.
I finished the show feeling wrung out and with the overwhelming sense of “Why? What was the point of that?”
Buuuuuut…it has lingered with me - as @talenevertold said when we were discussing the show, “Nobody enjoys it in the process… but it leaves this unique bittersweet aftertaste…” and that’s absolutely true; and it probably true that this show IS a rite of passage that everyone should watch. But don’t say I didn’t warn you!
and…The MEH (i.e. DNF):
This list is getting long! I have a bit less patience with shows than I did in the beginning - there are so many to get through, so I’m not willing to waste my time on anything that either doesn’t grip me from a story perspective, is far too slow, has mediocre acting and/or is too soapy
Master’s sun
Tale of Nokdu
The Heirs
Meow, the Secret Boy
Love Alarm
One Spring Night
Suits
Chocolate 
Doctor Stranger 
The Scholar Who Walks the Night
Oh Master!
Something In the rain
Alice
Live Up to Your Name
Record of Youth
Run on
Oh my Ghost
If I’ve made a heinous mistake by dropping any of these - get in touch and plead the case for why i should give them another chance!
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clairaworlds · 25 days
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now that I'm home I can elaborate on Dune: Part Two. In case anyone was wondering, here's a quick spoiler-free review: it was really good. I really liked it, but that's coming from someone who has read Dune, started on messiah, and has had a lot of conversations with a certified mega-fan (read all of Frank Herbert's stuff and quite a few of the others as well) if you're familiar with the book(s), it's really good. It changes some stuff but I honestly think it does so out of necessity, and because a movie is a different medium than a book. It really plays to the strengths of what a movie can do. also, it's gorgeous. if you haven't read the books it's still a really good movie and decently approachable (provided you've watched the first one) but I think some things are... easy to miss if you don't have book knowledge. this is not positive nor negative, it's just a thing. it's also my personal opinion that it's probably uhh an easier transition to read the book first and then watch the movie. I wouldn't know I finished Dune about a year ago it's just what I suspect. ok, spoilers below so don't go further than this if you're avoiding them.
the movie was so good, as I said above, there were a lot of changes, I honestly liked most of them, it's a LONG movie, but it feels dense, and almost a little rushed at times because there's SO MUCH it has to fit into one place. The movie does a decent job of fitting everything into the story but there are a few moments where it does struggle. It's sort of hard to truly explain my stance because even some of the things that weren't necessarily my favorite I can understand why they were like that. For example, Alia is my favorite character in Dune and she wasn't even in the book that much, I was extremely sad that she didn't get to stab anyone. She's my favorite freak of nature. That said, I can understand why she wasn't there, I don't think that scene would have had the same flow if she got to commit murder. If it were up to me, I probably wouldn't have condensed the thing into a less than 9-month time span (as Alia hasn't been born yet) but it's not the worst thing and I don't really mind. I was SO happy Gurney got to sing/play I missed that so much in the first one (I really like Gurney).
I, personally thought chani and pauls relationship was really good, the symbolism of her little blue ribbon was really fun. Also, the fact that she stands in defiance of the prophecy set by the Bene Gesserit while simultaneously being a part of it is cool to watch. It's a little less clear what's happening with that if you're not familiar with the books but if you are it's great.
Irulan got to do some things, which in my opinion is really cool. I felt so bad for her at the end of the first book. She's still not in a great place but at least she got to do some stuff.
I liked Jessica being weird and creepy and muttering to her psychic daughter the whole movie. To be honest I wasn't super with it at first but it ended up being fun.
all of the house Harkonnen stuff RULED. like the aesthetics, the vibes, the black and white, the fireworks that looked like drops of blood, the fight scene. it was amazing. I was LIVING for it. why do I want Feyd-Rautha's outfit (from the fight scene) with its long dramatic tastles and cool shapes? Honestly, a lot of the Harkonnen outfits ruled. a lot of the outfits in general ruled. Irulan's weird dimand dress was neat. I loved the beading on her headdress.
sandwalking is still awesome and I loved to see it. every time a Freemen jumped out of the sand I was grinning like a maniack. they were terrifying in a way that's hard to explain. it was awesome to watch.
ok, getting into some of the more serious stuff. The moment where Paul goes to the South and accepts his role is.... just... the way they shot it. the music that played. the terror in Chani's eyes. It was really good. they played it like a tragedy and a work of horror. you were not supposed to look upon this moment with joy or reverence. it felt like something that would--- that could--- only end badly. it was exactly the right feeling for that moment. Paul could never be anything other than a tragic figure, and this moment, this moment where he decides to accept it, that was very much the start of the end. (from a certain point of view, from another, it's been crashing down for a while now, and this was just another step towards oblivion) There are no heroes in Dune, and this moment did not feel heroic. In almost any other movie, any other story, this would be a victory, a moment where the leader steps into their role and rallies their troops. The fact that this moment is horrifying shows me just how much respect this movie gives to its source.
Not only that but the battle at the end had direct parallels to the battle in the first movie. running the opposite direction, and this time our characters are the attackers. It felt epic to see the sandworms and the troops on top of them (also the sand riding scene was fun) then, it turned right back around as the brutality of the attack was emphasized. it felt like watching a massacre because it was. it was supposed to remind you of what happened to Leto and the others. Leto might not have believed in revenge, but his son does. There are no heroes in Dune. there never could have been.
the ornithopters continue to be epic to see on a massive screen. The movie also sounded amazing.
that's most of what I have to say for right now. overall, it was a great movie. I was originally a little nervous to go back in a theater, considering last time it did not go well, but I don't regret this for a second. like all movies you see in theaters it's LOULD, and fairly bright (although I've seen much more blinding movies) I'm decently noise-sensitive and EXTREMELY photosensitive (I don't get seizures or anything, but bright lights will almost always trigger a migraine) I brought a pair of ear-plugs and I could still hear perfectly, although I do have a nasty migraine so there's that. Honestly, this is just a hazard of me seeing literally anything in a theater so I don't blame the movie itself. I wish I could go to theaters without pain, but we don't often get what we wish for. Still, I had fun, and I'd go see it again, so this movie is officially worth the migraine.
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rovetrade · 3 months
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2, 8, and 14! (for the ask thing :])
woahh hii awesome
2 (album of the year): calm ya farm i think. i love petro a lot but calm ya farm is just like. warm summer afternoon barefoot in the grass tending the garden sonically and ive never had music make me feel like that before. initative makes me cry, genuinely. just such a beautiful collection of songs that makes me want to eat glass and lay in the sun and weep and drink lemonade
8 (game of the year). i do not play video games very often at all and certainly not often enough for me to have played anything that released this year. like i mostly just play mario kart and sometimes the binding of isaac if i can be bothered to play anything at all. the connections game nyt put out this year is good though
14 (fav book ive read this year). .A. AAAAA. i have many. for 2023 releases my two favorites were absolutely north woods by daniel mason and the glutton by ak blakemore. north woods is really really excellent, basically describes the history of a fictional cabin in the woods of western massachusetts through the stories of those who inhabited it. there’s a guy who’s really autistic about apples in it (which. as someone who cares way too much about apples. really tickled me). there’s a section i can only describe as beetle erotica. one section is written like its a true crime magazine. theres gay ghosts. i think everyone should read it.
the glutton is a fictionalized biography of Tarare, that french guy who may or may not have eaten a baby and has a sam o’nella academy video about him. considering the subject i was expecting something sort of grim and unforgiving and harsh and nasty which, in some parts, it absolutely was. but it was mostly poetic and gorgeous and just achingly human, a very careful and empathetic look at someone on the fringes of society. gets extra points for being surprisingly queer. it made me cry.
and as a bonus/one not published in 2023, i also really enjoyed patrick süskind’s perfume: the story of a murderer. historical fiction seems to be something i’ve liked a lot this year, especially when it follows some fucked up outcast (cough the glutton, see also: lapvona and prosper’s demon). this one intruiged me mostly because it’s a novel about perfume and weird perfumes are sort of a hobby of mine. anyways incredible book, crazy ending, great writing. such an excellent concept behind this as well. i’ll stop now this answer is getting out of hand but thank you for letting me talk about books
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neowitcher · 1 year
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QUEER ROMANCE TO SPICE UP YOUR VALENTINE’S | RECOMMENDATIONS
In the mood to spend your Valentine’s curled up with a good romance book? Here are some recommendations with non-binary, asexual and sapphic leads.
1. Love & Other Disasters by Anita Kelly | 2022 | 368 p. | f/nb | 🌶️🌶️
The first openly nonbinary contestant on America’s favorite cooking show falls for their clumsy competitor in this delicious romantic comedy debut “that is both fantastically fun and crack your heart wide open vulnerable. (Rosie Danan, Storygraph)
Starting off with one of my favourite romance reads of last year, Love & Other Disasters is a delicious romance in multiple ways. It focuses on the main characters’ struggles and dreams, and you’re bound to be rooting for them the entire way. The f/nb romance is both heartwarming and sexy, and with its competitive setting, it surely is impossible to put down!
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2. The Romantic Agenda by Claire Kann | 2022 | 336 p. | ace f/m | 🌶️
Thirty, flirty, and asexual Joy is secretly in love with her best friend Malcolm, but she’s never been brave enough to say so. When he unexpectedly announces that he’s met the love of his life—and no, it’s not Joy—she’s heartbroken. Malcolm invites her on a weekend getaway, and Joy decides it’s her last chance to show him exactly what he’s overlooking. But maybe Joy is the one missing something…or someone…and his name is Fox. (Storygraph)
My second favourite romance of last year won’t reel you in with spicy scenes, but does a rather incredible job portraying intimacy between two gorgeous love interests. Asexual representation is still lacking in romance novels but Claire Kann proves that there absolutely should be more of. The fake dating trope used is the cherry on top for this wonderful romance that I won’t stop recommending. Perfect summery read to start counting down to warmer days. (Full review can be found here.)
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3. Mistakes Were Made by Meryl Wilsner | 2022 | 404 p. | f/f | 🌶️🌶️🌶️
A sharp and sexy rom-com about a college senior who accidentally hooks up with her best friend’s mom. What should have been a one-time fling quickly proves impossible to ignore, and soon Cassie and Erin are sneaking around. Worst of all, they start to realize they have something real. But is being honest about the love between them worth the cost? (Storygraph)
Mistakes Were Made is the total package if you want it all this Valentine’s: amazing humor, exciting romance, and an abundance of steamy scenes. Probably the most binge-worthy book on this list, I highly doubt you would need anything more to fall in love. Despite the slightly scandalous romance, the conflict never takes away from the enjoyment. For any MILF lover: this book is made for you!
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4. For Her Consideration by Amy Spalding | 2023 | 320 p. | f/f | 🌶️
When an aspiring L.A. scriptwriter falls head-over-heels for a bossy and beautiful movie star after a devastating break-up, the two take a risk on love and cast themselves as the leading ladies of their own star-struck romance in this sweet and spirited love story from critically-acclaimed writer Amy Spalding in her adult debut. (Netgalley, Storygraph)
If you’d prefer to buy yourself a new book instead of reading something, then this is for you! Releasing 21 February, For Her Consideration is a relatable and swoonworthy sapphic romance fully coated in Hollywood dreams and sapphic film culture. It has great plus-size representation and fun side characters, making the book really awesome, both with and without the romance. (Full review can be found here.)
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5. Legends & Lattes by Travis Baldree | 2022 | 318 p. | f/f
Worn out after decades of packing steel and raising hell, Viv the orc barbarian cashes out of the warrior’s life with one final score. A forgotten legend, a fabled artifact, and an unreasonable amount of hope lead her to the streets of Thune, where she plans to open the first coffee shop the city has ever seen. A hot cup of fantasy slice-of-life with a dollop of romantic froth. (Storygraph)
Last but not least, the perfect cosy recommendation for anyone who loves a cute romance without it being the entire genre. The sapphic romance in this is very slow burn and while they’re slowly falling in love, you’re bound to fall head over heels with the book in its entirety. Nothing better than a book that feels like a hot cup of coffee to cuddle up in bed with.
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majorarqueerna · 8 months
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I seem to have written an astrology book?! ♐
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You know what’s awesome? Writing a book and getting it published.
Know what’s awesome-er? Getting the opportunity to write a book with one of your mentors.
I’ve had to hold in my squee about this for many months, but I’m super excited to finally tell you that I’m the second author on Sagittarius Witch, one of twelve books of the Witch’s Sun Sign Series written by Ivo Dominguez, Jr. and published by Llewellyn over the next year. The first few volumes are available now, and the Sagittarius volume will be released in April 2024.
Here’s the official description of the Sagittarius book:
Travel off the beaten path in both your daily life and magical practice with this book on maximizing the power of your Sun sign. Sharing numerous spells, exercises, recipes, and stories, Ivo Dominguez, Jr. and Enfys J. Book show you how to make your witchcraft greater than ever with Sagittarius energy. This book offers many ways to channel your natural tendencies into stronger magic, including Sagittarius correspondences, cleansing and shielding methods, self-care routines, and divination techniques.
When people ask what I wrote for the book, I basically sum it up as “Ivo wrote all the crunchy astrology bits, and I wrote several blog-style pieces about the lived experience of being a Sagittarius witch.” (Also, no pressure, but Ivo himself is a Sagittarius. So that wasn’t intimidating at all!)
About the Witch’s Sun Sign Series
The Witch’s Sun Sign Series, the brainchild of brilliant Llewellyn editor Elysia Gallo, is a unique and exciting project to be part of. Each book in the series is jointly written by Ivo Dominguez, Jr. and a witch of that particular sun sign, and includes several additional contributions from other witches of that sun sign. The Sagittarius volume includes contributions from Mama Gina, Donyelle Headington, Devin Hunter, Cosette Paneque, Michael G. Smith, Natalie Zaman, Dawn Aurora Hunt, and Sandra Kynes.
And these books are so pretty, too. The cover and interior design of each volume is lush, vibrant, and gorgeous, thanks to Llewellyn Art Director Shira Atakpu (who was also the cover designer for Queer Qabala!). Each book is accessibly-priced and presented in a friendly, giftable size. Consider getting one of these highly-personalized and extremely useful books for each of your witchy friends!
[Video description: A flip through “Aries Witch,” the first published volume in the Witch’s Sun Sign Series, showing its gorgeous cover and page design.]
I had a wonderful experience collaborating with Ivo and Elysia on this book, and am deeply honored to have been part of the project.
The book is available for pre-order, along with most of the other books in the series. Links are below!
Pre-order Sagittarius Witch
Bookshop.org (affiliate link)
Amazon (U.S.) (affiliate link)
Barnes & Noble
Llewellyn
Amazon (Canada)
Amazon (UK)
Request at your local library
Add to your Goodreads queue
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pocketsizedquasar · 6 months
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Hi, sorry to barge in here, especially with something that isn't really an ask, but I just had to let you know that you genuinely seem like one of the coolest people I've ever had the pleasure of stumbling across. Not even being employing the slightest bit of hyperbole here - for as much as I love doing that.
Your Moby Dick webcomic is - for lack of better words - rad as hell, and it literally gives me life. The way you adapt the text is frankly inspired, and your art is so beautiful and fitting for the story colour- and style-wise, bursting with life that complements Melville's prose in this breathtaking way. Moby Dick is one of my favourite books, and I usually find that most adaptions flounder, but yours is a beautiful aerialist, gracefully balancing its own soul and the spirit of the original in this perfect way high above the rest.
And as if your art weren't enough to entrance me, I then find your tumblr and discover that you're also just an all-around awesome person??? You have so many utterly based takes that I adore hearing, you're a physicist which is so fucking cool, and your TMA headcannons and art pieces are just… *chef’s kiss.*
I wish all the best for you with my entire being, and I hope that things turn out spectacularly for you, because this internet stranger thinks that you’re absolute amazing, from the glimpses of you they’ve gotten to see (:
(P.S: favourite part of Moby Dick? Figured I should at least ask one question lol)
oh hey no need to apologize hey🥺🥺🥺🥺i had to let this sit in my ask box for a bit bc i genuinely didn’t know how to respond /positive this is. the absolute sweetest fucking thing oughfhfhdhd
i definitely feel you re: most adaptations for MD not really doin it for me fhdhdhdh i’m so glad that you enjoy mine 🥺🥺 i’m trying very hard to keep up the spirit of the original story while still addressing & building on that foundation melville left so it’s really really good to hear that that’s coming across to people💖💖genuinely thank u so much
genuinely this entire ask was such a delight to receive thank you so much !! i cannot express how much this has literally made my whole week like. cjdjdhdhdh im gonna be riding this high for a while this is the sweetest thing thank you internet stranger 🥺🥺💖💖💖💖i also wish you all the best!!!!
and OUGHFFH ok favorite part of moby dick probably changes based on the month lol and i do have a lot of favorite chapters but right now i think. Ough it’s gotta be The Symphony. one of the most gorgeous chapters just for the prose alone; the imagery of the sky and sea all coming together to just oh so gently and lovingly caress and care for Ahab… this narrative loves him so much even as it damns him; ishmael as a narrator treats him with so much love and care and tenderness even though he’s technically responsible for him losing everything and it’s just . ough. and of course the absolutely heart wrenching starhab interactions of ahab seemingly for the first time genuinely reaching out for help and starbuck for the first time genuinely having hope for him but still in the end turning away from ahab, turning away from his reaching out because it’s all too much and he’s helpless and there’s nothing he thinks he can do for him and OUGHDHFJFFJFHFHFHFHFHH
ah.
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Yahoo~~ happy tgsday my sunshine
Spoilers ahead!!!
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...... YESSSSS. YES PLEASE. I NEED THIS SCENE AND I NEED IT NOW! A fluffy little dress up scene to set off all this angst
Poor Rachel recognizing her errors and yet unable to change as of yet~ i hope she'll get better at it as the story goes on, I'd like Jasper and her to stay friends.
This marks the way too high number update without our beloved Hyde. I'm starting to miss the spirit of the London night (⁠ᗒ⁠ᗩ⁠ᗕ⁠)
I hope your week goes amazing, don't forget that you're awesome and beautiful and smart and creative and the bestest o⁠(⁠(⁠*⁠^⁠▽⁠^⁠*⁠)⁠)⁠o
ah yay!!!! great chapter to wake up to lolol
I LITERALLY SQUEALED WHEN I READ THAT- i want this scene so badly,, like omggg its so sweet and so perfect and aaaandngn
I. Love. Rachel. I feel so bad for her omg my poor little girlie,, if she fussed over me I wouldnt push her away 🥺🥺🥺 but honestly, although she did mess up with jasper, I don’t think its as big of a deal to him as it is to her. I think that if she just apologized and promised not to do it again, tried to be a little better about it ya know,, I think jasper would be understanding. As long as shes understanding of him, I think he’ll return the favor. I hope they stop being weird around each other soon ;-;
HONESTLY- I miss him so much- I’m at the point where I’m starting to imagine Hyde in every scenario- like, imagine if ito and rachel are playing dress up and all of a sudden hyde’s there complimenting Ito’s kimono? or if rachel and jasper get to talk and BOOM hydes cheering them on? or if at this little party… jekyll keels over and starts transforming?
which brings me to my next point… nobody said hyde was *done*. so the exhibitions over, he got some well needed rest, so what? hydes still there, ruining his unconscious and intent on taking him down. plus, the chapter art!! gosh I miss him ;-; part of me hopes that this story gets to be similar to the book (where he starts transforming without the potion), and while I’d feel bad for jekyll, that would be sooo cool xD i miss hyde lolol ive been separated from my fav boyo for too long xD
ah thank you!! I have today off so I got to sleep in hehe ^-^ jfjfjfjskncjd youre so sweet ;-; youre wonderful and lovely and gorgeous and stupendous and awesome and absolutely amazing!!! I hope your eeek is awesome, remember to stay hydrated!!!! ╰(*´︶`*)╯♡
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smokeybrandreviews · 9 months
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Speed Run part III: No Sleep Till Brooklyn
Just found out that Guardians III is available to stream so, obviously, I'm about to watched that. I also,watched Spider-Verse II because, why the f*ck not? I’ve been playing catch-up with my movie viewing all year, mostly because lie is ridiculous sometimes, but progress is being made. So far, I've seen every movie on my top ten list, even if a little late.
Guardians of the Galaxy vol. 3
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GoT III was much, much, better than i expected. From all of the reviews I've read, you'd think this was a jumbled mess of incoherent, tear-jerking, cameo laden, comic book bloat. It's not. It's actually really good. It's weird this thing didn't make more money because, objectively, it's one of the best projects coming out of the MCU since No Way Home. And i f*cking LOVE No Way Home. As great as his flick was, here were issues. Pacing toward the beginning was a little windy and some characters felt like they got rush jobs in terms of development but that’s understandable when you take into account the massive scope of this film. Adam Warlock was the biggest casualty of this. Dude was awesome and i kind of loved the take Gunn had on him. That “Born Sexy Yesterday” trope turned on it’s head was fun and i feel like we could have had a bit more of that. Damn sure wanted to see more of Phyla Vel, too. She’s a favorite. It was always going to be a tall order to give everyone satisfying closure to their story arcs or just screen time, especially hen this was, at its core, a Rocket Raccoon story. These are petty nitpicks because, overall, Guardians of the Galaxy vol. 3 is a goddamn masterpiece. That makes three classic films, out of three tries. Who have thought that the films about an obscure, C-list, comic book team based out in deep space, would accomplish the rare hat trick and deliver a trilogy of movies with no bad entries. F*cking phenomenal.
Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse
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Across the Spider-Verse was the dopest film i have seen all year. Hands down, unequivocally, the best. I loved every bit of this film, every goddamn second. I am an unapologetic Spider-Man shill and Miles is up there in my book. I’m Pete purist but these Into the Spider-Verse gave us the best interpretation of the character and Across carried the energy into something greater. I ADORED this film, man. Never mind that it’s positively gorgeous. Never mind that it is brilliantly written. Never mind that it raised the bar for animation yet again. Never mind all of the quips, cameos, easter eggs, and nods. Never mind the dope ass character designs, ridiculous perfect reimaginaing of one of the lamest villains on record, or the that Rio is a goddamn vision. Never min that this film is the best executed multiverse narrative to date. No, all of that is dope, but, at it’s core, this move is great because of Miles. This is a Miles story and it is told brilliantly. No spoilers, which is weird to say for a movie that has been out for a month, but Across he Spider-Verse is arguably THE best Spider-Flick released thus far. And i am a No Way Home apologist saying that with no qualms or hesitation. F*cking brilliant film.
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earthenhollow · 1 year
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Drago Bludvist: my one problem with How To Train Your Dragon 2
I love the How To Train Your Dragon (Httyd) stories in all its endeavors.
The shows, the movies, the fan made community, the art, it’s all been a very important part of my life. I started watching the shows and movies in my childhood, and am now rewatching the movies and joining the fandom as I grow older. It brings me joy in all aspects.
However. Both despite and because it’s a media I so much adore, I do not want to overlook its issues.
Or more specifically, one issue.
Drago Bludvist.
Goodness gracious I love this man’s design.
If you don’t know, Drago Bludvist is the main villain in Httyd 2. He is described as a “cruel, ruthless and twisted warlord whose main goal is to conquer the world with his enormous army of both humans and dragons. He is feared by all and destroys anyone who gets in his way.” By howtotrainyourdragon.fandom.com
Drago is a gorgeous example of good character design in my books. A tall, broad, imposing figure helped out by his asymmetrical dragon skin cloak. Light amounts of armor cover his exposed side, and beneath his dragon skin cloak is his prosthetic metal arm. His main weapon we see him use is his bullhook (something found in real life, it looks like a cross between a spear and a metal hook). Drago does use his spear in fighting, but we mostly see him using it to control the Bewilderbeast. (A huge dragon known to be the “alpha species” of all dragons. It’s integral to this movies plot as both the protagonists and antagonists each have a Bewilderbeast on their team.)
Drago has backstory, mystery, character history, motive, a good outfit, a powerful army, and challenges both the protagonists physical strength and the strength of their integrity. He is the opposite of Berk’s fairly new-found beliefs of dragon-human-harmony, and has a lot of dangerous power and therefor influence to back those ideas up.
But then where’s the problem?
The problem is that he is the only character in the whole first and second movies (to my knowledge) who isn’t white. Or at the very least is designed with physical traits of non white people. A list of examples; he has an olive skin tone, curly black hair and beard that he wears in dreadlocks, a dramatically hooked nose, and is voiced by Djimon Hounsou, who is one of if not the only black voice actor for the characters. So yes, he looks badass with his scars and deep voice and intimidating attitude, but they could have achieved this without designing his physical character this way.
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Having more diversity in Httyd would not be a problem. If the producers had chosen to add more ethnic or racial diversity to characters, awesome! The series is set in what seems to be a land of white Vikings (nearly all characters with red, brown, or blond hair), but it’s also fantasy where they have dragons and flaming swords, there is no reason sticking to that detail should be important.
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But they didn’t. The important thing is that they designed one character this way. The important thing is which character it is. The important thing is that they only designed a character like this when it was the big evil villain of the movie.
I get the “oh the unknown is scary.” With someone like Drago Bludvist who is meant to hold mystery, using his “from another land” background is a good reason as to why we haven’t heard about him before. As described in the movie, Drago is seen as “a stranger, from a strange land. Covered in scars and draped in a cloak of dragon skin.“
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In my mind there were two good ways to make new character designs work in Httyd 2. One, follow the form of the first movie and have everyone be some form of white Viking. This would continue following with the last movie as all the characters we met for this description. Two, diversity in all sides of the characters. Show that it’s not important to this movies plot to make your characters different races and cultures, affecting protagonists and antagonists alike. It being a movie to be enjoyed by kids and adults, there’s no harm in going into the second movie with the mindset of “hey, we know this concept works now, there’s no harm in making our characters more diverse because it’s not the sole point of the story, and it will reflect the diversity of our watchers more.”
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However they chose to do neither. And made a badass character whom I love, but cannot ignore that the designers made Drago a standout unnecessarily.
Were I designing him, I would not take away these traits. I would not redesign him without dreadlocks, the stylish beads in his beard, his intimidating personality or his role as the villain. But to do this successfully you need to look at the design of your protagonists too. Think, “who is getting an strong accent? Who is seen differently because of where they came from? Who is being seen differently because of how they look?” And if the answer to that is always the villains, then you’re doing something wrong.
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And that could be that. It’s about where my knowledge of the series ends, and thus most of my critiques. I’ve watched most parts of the third Httyd movie but not all of it, so my takes on it are less rounded. But I couldn’t help but notice when watching what parts I did…
Huh. The villain Grimmel the Grisly. Wow. I mean. They did it again. They didn’t do as much physical design coding... But. He’s one of the only main characters they gave a heavy accent (again) and an implied different ethnicity (again). To me it felt like he had less personality than Httyd 2’s villain, so I preferred Drago, but he was a stylishly designed man with stark white hair and an impatient attitude. That kind of villain can be fun for a lot of people and I get that. The fact that it’s only the villains being designed as anything but blond-red-brown haired white Vikings is a problem.
And hey. It might only be one problem with the series but it is a big one, and I’d hope it doesn’t become any more of a pattern.
To conclude; go fan over Drago Bludvist, hate him as a person whilst loving his character, notice the lack of diversity in films, and if you’re an aspiring film maker then start taking your own notes of how to do it better. Or at least learn how to hire a competent team of people to do it for you.
And fuck Grimmel the Grisly. Me and my homies all hate Grimmel the Grisly.
*Bonus Thoughts and Feelings*
On a similar topic which thankfully needs less explaining, this series of movies are an instance where disability isn’t shown as a horrid punishment. Protagonists and antagonists alike get scarred, burned, injured, and disabled. Hiccup loses a leg, Toothless loses part of his tail, Gobber always lacked his hand and leg (we learn the story behind it in Legend of the Boneknapper), Gothi is mute, and Drago Bludvist is missing an arm. Wether or not these are good representation of disability in media I’m not sure, but the attitude of this series towards it is a great start on its own. Hiccup choosing to customize his leg prosthetic in Httyd 2 was the most badass thing childhood me could’ve ever seen.
Passionately concluding,
G’bye!
[Feel free to add on or leave suggested edits/critique! I’d love an excuse to discuss more about the film or be corrected on spots I might’ve missed!]
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mekatrio · 1 year
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ok let me list down the most slayest issues for my self reference
issue 3 - adaptation of og teen titans cyborg plotline which is slay
issue 7 - starfire's race w blackfire, always slay when she's here
issue 9:
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issue 10: aqualad issue!! i love the issues with the titans east members very much (≧∇≦)
issue 11: terra centric issue :D
issue 12: Extremely good mr mumbo issue that breaks the 4th wall and plays w the comic book medium! very very fun
issue 14: speedy centric 😎
issue 15: kwiz kid, kitten, and killer moth are very fun here hehe
issue 18: VERY GOOD issue with more 4th wall breaking, this time with a particular focus on the chibis!! this issue is so great 😭
issue 20: injustice the video game issue
issue 24: SUPER EPIC AWESOME ISSUE featuring a powerswap!!! has this gem:
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issue 28: beast boy backstory 🥺 soooo so cute
issue 30: issue with the EXTREMELYYYY GORGEOUS ART.... like oh my godd the linework and coloring in the first section is so amazing, and the environmental design of the second section is just incredible!!!!
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im so sad there were done by guest artists bc i would have loved more issues in these artstyles.... T_T
issue 31: the issue with the time paradox that broke poor 15 year old me's brain 😭 also hi nightwing
issue 34: very cute crossover issue where kid flash races mas y menos :3 also on a sidenote i love how kid flash looks in tt2003's artstyle, its so nice for a character to have robin's proportions but not his face as well (speedy, kwiz kid, etc...)
issue 36: DONNA TROY ISSUE AKA BEST ISSUE IN THE WORLD!!! also just a big ol homage to the Original original teen titans which is just great (not wolfman's titans, the OG ones)
issue 37: extremely adorable christmas issue 🥺
issue 39: very cute and fun valentine's day issue, also DONNA TROY APPEARANCE YIPEEEEEE
issue 40: the first section is a very fun villain pov plotline.... and the second is.... thunder and lightning. ok. at least it has nice guest art tho
issue 41: Epic girl-centric girlboss issue
issue 43: has this MASTERPIECE of a cover... i remember it being my phone background as a kid 😭
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issue 44: a well written raven centric issue where she willingly chooses to keep the part of her that is trigon 🥺
issue 45: beast boy and cyborg origins! featuring a justice league cameo lmao
issue 46: oh these last few issues are extremely good.... starfire's long lost brother + blackfire closure! this one really shouldve been its own episode
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also baby starfire is so cute T_T
issue 47: very sad robin backstory angst.... featuring a gross batman cameo lmfao
issue 48: SUPERRRR good issue omfg, features an atlernate universe where the titans are evil, its so so great and fun. the alt universe designs are soooo good. also this page itself is amazing
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issue 49: issue with slade the fucking loser, and also rose!!! extremely slay.
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issue 50: another fun crossover issue with THIS masterpiece of a cover 😭
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(nauck's pencils and stucker's inking is just so incredible 😭😭😭)
issue 51: yeah man these last few issues are really just storylines that shouldve been episodes but they couldnt afford to adapt into episodes. its alright tho bc at least they are comics! anyways, terra centric! another long lost sibling episode, and proper closure on terra's storyline <3
issue 53: cute bb flashback story.... and some kid flash and jynx closure :3
issue 54: talk about a last fucking minute appearance.... anyway i love the interaction between the two wonder girls so much. so so fun and i wish it was animated
issue 55: AWIFJFIOSOFPEPSLKLF,/S33/2 😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭
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lilareviewsbooks · 10 months
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A Low-Commitment Fantasy Read - Into The Riverlands - 5/5
5/5 stars
100 pages
Contains: a non-binary cleric; a talking bird; an old woman who bosses everyone around
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I finally got to read Into The Riverlands! I've literally been clawing after this book for the longest time – and the journey involved my hold being ready for me at the library when I was fully in another country for the week. Last weekend, though, I finally got my hands on an electronic copy and the wonderful audiobook – which is just 2 hours long! Like watching a movie! And I had an amazing time!
Into The Riverlands is the third book in the Singing Hills Cycle, Nghi Vo’s series about wandering cleric Chih, who is on a mission to record the history of their China-inspired kingdom, accompanied by their talking bird, Almost Brilliant. However, as I mentioned before when I spoke about this series on here, this cycle does not need to be read in any particular order. Any book is a good starting point. So, if you’ve never heard of this series before and Into The Riverlands sounds appealing to you, go ahead and pick it up.
This one follows Chih as they walk into a tea-house, get into some trouble, and end up meeting the perfect travel companions. As always, we are treated to traditional stories from folklore or that are otherwise known by the people Chih is traveling with, as they continue in their mission to record all of those. Because of its focus on these stories, I can’t shake the cozy feeling this series gives me – like sitting around a fire and hearing someone tell you an old tale, or hearing about your ancestors from your family. Ms. Vo’s choice of such small windows into people’s lives, people Chih crosses once and then never again, and we as the audience only get to experience for one, short book, makes this coziness even more vivid. We are simply glancing at these people, at what’s important to them, at what stories they want to pass on to Chih.
And what stunners these passing characters are! This is true for every installment of the series, but particularly in this one – Ms. Vo builds beautiful secondary characters, whose witty dialogue brings liveliness to the book, making it a memorable, if quick, read. Chih is wonderful as always, and their relationship with Almost Brilliant is also highlighted by the great use of dialogue. Listening to it is an experience I recommend – Cindy Kay’s awesome voice work really brings these characters alive!
More than anything, though, I always get a little bit emotional over this series. Preserving culture, stories in specific, is a topic dear to my heart – and if we talk about it too much, I might cry on my keyboard.  There’s something so gorgeous about the human instinct to protect those things that are dear to us from the effects of time – to keep things. To retell stories a million times just to make sure they’re kept alive in someone else when we’re gone. And although the focus of this series isn’t exactly that, and it rarely touches on this topic, choosing rather to explore the stories themselves, and what they can teach us, I can’t help thinking about all of this. And it certainly helps with my experience of the series.
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i hate when authors do that :/ because i feel like it just creates another stereotype that if a woman is independent and strong, they’re automatically obnoxious, mean, and rude. i love them too!! especially when they’re written well and they’re complex. that’s why i love jude so much. i really appreciated holly black actually making her morally gray, and not trying to convince us she’s an angel (though she’s definitely the good guy compared to the antagonists). she’s so complex and i love that
i’ll definitely let you know when i read addie! i might put it on my may tbr list! <3
oooh YES OF COURSE!! thank you :’) <3 so i just finished the starless sea by erin morgenstern which i loved so so much. its magical realism, and the way it’s written is definitely different to a regular fantasy novel, but it truly is so beautiful oh my god. it took me a couple chapters to get into the flow of the book, but once i did i couldn’t put it down!! the writing is really gorgeous, it’s definitely “flowery” but not in a pretentious way, if that makes sense. and all the characters are so likeable and well-written, especially the mc (he’s one of my comfort characters now). there’s a bit of romance, but it’s mostly about exploring this secret underground world (?). some people say there’s no plot, which i suppose is true, but i couldnt care less bc to me, its better without being plot-driven. it’s really magical, and i’ve highlighted so many lines. its the perfect book for people who find solace and comfort in books and stories and different realities. also!! MAGICAL DOORS!! so many magical doors. this is my top recommendation!! ik for some people it didn’t vibe with them, which is okay, but id give it a chance bc it’s amazing <3
some other recs are the night circus (by the same author), which i really loved! it’s super magical, and there’s a forbidden love romance!
oooh also stardust by neil gaiman is amazing!!!! the film is great too!! it’s pretty short and it got me out of a slump!!
some other recs (and one i’m actually reading now bc it’s spring) is the wind in the willows by kenneth grahame. it’s such a cute story!! i’m pretty sure it’s a classic, and idk it’s just super cosy and comforting and perfect for spring <3
i HAVE to recommend spells for lost things by jenna evans welch, which is one of my favourite books ever. it’s a contemporary ya romance, but it’s so well-written and meaningful. there are some pretty deep themes regarding one character and imo, they were handled really well. the romance is so so sweet, and both characters are really likeable. idk how to explain it, other than it’s just whimsical, sweet, meaningful, and sometimes poetic <3
and my last recommendation is the king in the window by adam gopnik. this is a middle grade novel(?) but i feel like the writing is maybe 14+ ?? honestly idk how to explain it but it feels different than a regular middle grade book! it’s basically about a young boy who lives in paris, and finds out about this world that’s hidden in reflections (mainly windows though). the atmosphere is so magical!! i loved the setting as well, and i think it’s just a really lovely story overall <3
omg don’t even worry about it 😭<3333 pls it’s totally okay!! i hope you’re doing good 💓💓
yeah, exactly! a woman can be all sorts of things and be strong and independent at the same time. i agree, jude's awesome. although in my opinion, when it comes to morally gray, violent women, zoya nazyalensky rules. she's one of my favourite female characters of all the time. leigh bardugo wrote her so well!
i've read the starless sea last year and i loved it! it's probably one of the most unconventional fantasy books i've ever came across? everything about it is special and magical. the atmosphere is also so cozy and comforting. it's a perfect read for autumn and winter.
i've always wanted to read it! i think i'm actually going to download it today. i'm in a mood for young adult fantasy.
i've never read any neil gaiman book. i feel quite ashamed of that. i think this one will be good to start with.
i've just checked it and it looks so cute!
this sounds great! i'm adding it to my tbr. did this author write love & gelato? the name rings a bell, but i'm not completely sure.
wow, the plot sounds really interesting! i love books set in paris so i'm definitely going to read it.
thank you for the recommendations! they're all lovely! i'm doing well, i have a school break this week. how are you?
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