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Get ready, fans of boys' love visual novels! Y Press Games, renowned for creating engaging gay visual novels, is offering a fantastic sale at the Steam Visual Novel Fest from August 7th to August 14th. This exclusive sale features some of their best-known titles, all at discounted prices. Check it out HERE Y Press Games is the creative force behind popular titles like: • To Trust an Incubus • Orc Covenant • Dear Monster! This limited-time sale is an excellent opportunity to enrich your collection with these compelling boys' love games. Whether you're a longtime fan or new to the genre, Y Press Games' offerings are sure to captivate your heart. To take part in this unique sale, visit Steam's Visual Novel Fest page between August 7th and August 14th. Don't miss your chance to explore Y Press Games' world of romance, fantasy, and adventure at incredible discounts!

The Kickstarter campaign for Of Sense and Soul, a charming LGBT+ historical romance visual novel set in 1870s London, is in its final week! Be sure to check out their Kickstarter HERE to learn more! This promising game by Forsythia Productions follows the intertwining paths of two protagonists, an editorialist, and a gentleman, who have an unusual first encounter through a misconstrued personal ad. As they navigate through the smog-covered streets of Victorian London, they face their own regrets and must decide whether to follow their hearts or conform to the status quo. Of Sense and Soul promises an engaging experience with two-player routes, each consisting of 12 chapters and multiple unique endings. With approximately 100,000 words of story spread across 24 chapters, players can expect 8-12 hours of gameplay. The narrative is enhanced by stunning scene direction, varied sprite animations, and beautiful watercolor-inspired artwork that pays attention to historical details. The game also boasts a diverse cast of characters that enrich Hugo and Seamus' lives, and players' choices in unique menus will influence the outcome. Moreover, a fully original soundtrack inspired by contemporary and historical music adds a compelling layer to the experience. If you're a fan of romance, historical settings, and captivating stories, consider supporting Of Sense and Soul on Kickstarter. Help bring this heartfelt project to life and join the journey of love and self-discovery in Victorian London. Support the project by checking out the link below! OFFICIAL WEBSITE

"Love is an Illusion" is an absolute roller coaster of a #manhwa! Our protagonist, Hye-sung, is a character that many readers will find themselves rooting for and is totally relatable. Now let's jump into some plot with no real spoilers! Hye-sung has the surprise revelation that he's an Omega, contrary to his lifelong belief of being an Alpha, adds an unexpected complexity to his character. The transformation he undergoes and his struggle with acceptance form the core of this plot. When Hye-sung crosses paths with Dojin, the story takes off, bringing forth a beautiful narrative of understanding, acceptance, and love. The author has done a remarkable job of exploring the themes of identity and self-worth within this enticing storyline. Each chapter unfurls a new layer to the narrative, making it increasingly impossible to put down. Also, the art is amazing! In a nutshell, "Love is an Illusion" is a must-read manhwa! It takes you on a journey that, at its heart, is about learning to love and accept yourself for who you truly are. An absolute great piece of work! Check out my other reviews here on BLU!

I am a beta reader and I am here to chat about the psychology of the characters from the comic and Visual Novel "I Married a Monster on a Hill". None of this is revealed in any media yet so here is a sneak peek into the characters lives. "I Married a Monster on a Hill" presents an engrossing narrative, with characters Conrad and Nate standing out due to their complex backgrounds and the shared traumatic experiences that define their relationship. The subtle exploration of PTSD, familial betrayal, and past sexual trauma adds layers of depth to their characters, setting the stage for a compelling bond between the two. Let's chat about this beautiful couple. Nate (He/They) on the left Conrad (He/Him) on the right Artist: Bumbleflap Defining Mental Health Terms Before delving into Conrad and Nate's journey in I Married a Monster on a Hill: • PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder): PTSD is a psychological condition that develops after a person experiences or witnesses a traumatic event. Symptoms may include intrusive memories, nightmares, hyperarousal, and emotional detachment. • Trauma: In psychological terms, trauma refers to an emotional response to a deeply distressing or disturbing event that overwhelms an individual's ability to cope. It can cause feelings of helplessness, and diminish a person's sense of self and the ability to feel a full range of emotions. Trauma can result from a variety of incidents, including physical violence, sexual abuse, natural disasters, or severe illness or injury. Conrad: A Guiding Light Amidst the Shadows Conrad finds a sense of purpose and direction in his relationship with Nate, using it as a beacon to navigate his life post a bitter betrayal by his own family. His protective instinct towards Nate doesn't undercut Nate's strength but reinforces the dynamic equilibrium of their relationship. This transformation in Conrad's character, from a victim of circumstance to a guardian figure, showcases his resilience and the power of love to catalyze change. Nate: The Complex Duality of Strength and Vulnerability Nate's character offers an intriguing study of strength and vulnerability. While he carefully sidesteps discussions about his trauma, maintaining a certain emotional distance from Conrad, he doesn't shy away from leaning on Conrad in times of crises. His past is marred by SA, but it is Conrad's unyielding support and understanding that steer Nate towards a path of healing and self-discovery. While saving him from a dark lifestyle. Nate was once betrayed by someone he looked up to in a horrific way, causing a domino effect that severely impacted his personal relationships. This painful experience eroded his trust, hurting his relationships and leaving lasting scars. To cover up his trauma, Nate became a serial dater, using fleeting romantic engagements as a shield against his past. Yet, these experiences also shaped Nate into the resilient individual he is, highlighting his strength. Artist:Angie Min The Dance of Contrast & Being a Hero Despite their age difference, Nate often turns to Conrad for comfort and guidance. Conrad, more traditional and somewhat naive, is frequently caught off guard by Nate's flirtatious advances and candid expressions of desire. This interplay of their contrasting personalities adds a captivating dimension to their relationship, keeping it vibrant and unpredictable. For Nate, Conrad is more than a friend or a lover; he's a savior. Conrad's heroic intervention gave Nate a chance at a new life, free from the shackles of his past. In this light, Conrad is a hero in Nate's eyes, someone who not only saved him from his past but continues to provide him with the strength to face his demons. Conrad also plays a pivotal role in grounding Nate. While Nate can get caught up in the whirlwind of life and partying, Conrad serves as a grounding force. His steadiness helps Nate find balance, and his influence helps guide Nate through turbulent times. The Healing Power of Emotional Expression Conrad's journey is also one of emotional discovery and expression. With Nate's help, Conrad learns to express his emotions, breaking down the walls he had built around himself. Nate encourages Conrad to confront and share his feelings, even when Conrad feels like he can't. This emotional evolution helps Conrad grow and strengthens their bond. Artist: Hartono Overcoming the Past, Shaping the Future Conrad and Nate's pasts are fraught with pain and betrayal. Yet, their story showcases their determination to overcome these obstacles and heal together. Their journey from individual suffering to shared healing illustrates the redemptive power of love and companionship. Artist @crashtako To conclude, "I Married a Monster on a Hill" offers an exploration of Conrad and Nate's deep bond that leaves a lasting impression. Their shared traumas, intertwined pasts, and emotional reliance on each other form the backbone of this narrative. Their journey underscores the potential for love to transcend suffering, offering a glimmer of hope and a chance at rebuilding their lives. Their story stands as a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the healing power of love. “I Married a Monster on a Hill” is still in development there is much to look forward to. Tune in to BLU for more character reviews and the positive impact their stories have. Learn more about the story by checking out their current comic, social pages, and news about visual novel development HERE. Until next time. HOTLINES 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline SAMHSA National Helpline

Fasten your seatbelts, #manhwa enthusiasts! 'Under The Green Light' is here! This amazing manhwa is a MUST-read! Let's start off with our protagonists: Matthew, a hidden gem of a sculpture student, and Jin, a charismatic man with a physique that could spark jealousy even among Greek gods. Sparks fly, chisels chip, and before you even know it, our solitary protagonist Matthew has chosen Jin as his muse. About Under The Green Light “…I want to sculpt you into a form that never changes.” In a city full of high-rise buildings, Mathew Rayner, a sculpture student who, aside from his art, lives isolated from the rest of the world. He unexpectedly meets a captivating man named Jin and feels a fated connection. Mathew offers him a proposal: be his model. Contrary to his intentions, the relationship between the two becomes more and more warped... In a grim world stained with dirty money and betrayal, Mathew steels his nerves as he approaches the executive of the Shinhae Faction, Jin Cheong-woo, and gives him a new ambition... “However, there are conditions: First, you must obey my words unconditionally.” A man who built a wall between himself and the world, and another who looks down on the world, both concealing their true desires. Their story starts here. In terms of visuals, Jaxx’s art style is a spectacle to behold! The art is incredibly detailed making each scene more and more meaningful. Readers can expect to be amazed by each page. So, what lies in store for Matthew and Jin? Will their path lead to a beautiful union, or will the complexities of their twisted love steer them towards destruction? That's a journey you'll have to embark on in 'Under The Green Light'. It's a manhwa that's emotionally immersive, visually stunning, and overall, a masterpiece that will keep you captivated till the very end. Be sure to check out my other reviews here on BLU!

There I was, browsing through Itch.io, when "Sinsations 2: Modern Gods" from Frigid Delights Studios landed on my radar. Yeah, I know, it's the sequel to "Sinsations", but I'd managed to miss the original somehow. Played the demo of the sequel, loved it, and then backtracked to the first game. Now, that's a gaming journey I hadn't expected. Anyway, I've got some thoughts on "Sinsations 2: Modern Gods," so buckle up. Oh, and my overall rating for it is 7 out of 10. "Sinsations 2: Modern Gods" Review Writing Frigid Delights Studios has set their sights high with "Sinsations 2: Modern Gods," looking at an expected word count of 350-400k words. That's a whole lot of writing, and from what I've seen in the demo, they've done an excellent job. The dialogues are sharp and crisp, carrying a good balance of humor and tension. And those one-liners, oh boy, they pack a punch. The plot twists kept me guessing and made me eager for more, much like my time spent watching 'Lucifer' on Netflix. Art Let's talk visuals. "Sinsations 2: Modern Gods" boasts over 100 different backgrounds, along with a host of unique locations. The uncensored CGs add a layer of boldness that fits the game's atmosphere just right. It's apparent that a lot of thought and effort has gone into creating this vibrant universe. Music The music part was still a work-in-progress during the demo, but I liked what I heard. The soundtrack has a captivating quality to it, promising a good accompaniment to the game's narrative. Can't wait to hear the complete score, especially the tracks from PlotTwistStudios and other guest artists. Voice Acting The voice acting in "Sinsations 2: Modern Gods" is pretty solid. The cast, a mix of old and new voices, does a stellar job of bringing the characters to life. There's a naturalness to their performances that adds depth to the characters. I can tell that the voice acting will be a significant part of the full game experience. Gameplay "Sinsations 2: Modern Gods" isn't just about the story or the art. The gameplay is equally enticing. The demo showed off an exciting mix of mini-games, secret discoveries, and increased NSFW scenes. It's clear that the full game will have a lot to offer to keep players engaged. "Sinsations 2: Modern Gods" feels like a well-rounded game, even at this early stage. It managed to exceed its Kickstarter goal and offers a blend of compelling writing, detailed art, immersive music, impressive voice acting, and exciting gameplay. It's not perfect, but it's a game you should keep an eye on. It's already made a mark with its successful Kickstarter campaign, and I'm excited to see what the full game brings.

"Hot and Cold" is a delightful and exciting #manhwa. From the very beginning, this story captivates readers with its unique premise and manages to keep them hooked until the very last page. And yes it is totally hott! The plot revolves around Kyungsoo, who finds himself enduring an unbearably hot summer with a broken air conditioner. (THE WORST FEELING HAHAH) Enter his quirky landlord, who surprises him with a cutting-edge humanoid air conditioner as a temporary replacement. Little does Kyungsoo know that this seemingly ordinary appliance will turn his world upside down. The chemistry between Kyungsoo and his humanoid air conditioner is electric, and their evolving relationship is a joy to witness. The author skillfully weaves humor into the narrative, providing much-needed comic relief in the midst of the characters' steamy encounters. While "Hot and Cold" may not be for everyone due to its mature content, it delivers an engaging and entertaining experience for readers who enjoy a combination of romance and fantasy. "Hot and Cold" is a captivating manhwa that everyone should consider checking out! Be sure to read my other reviews here on BLU for more recommendations!

"Solo For Two" is an adrenaline rush of a #manhwa! It dances into the complex and scandal-ridden world of star ballet dancer Sasya, weaving a tale that's as engrossing as it is unexpected. This isn't your typical ballet story - it's raw, it's real, and it's downright riveting. Let's talk Sasya. He's cloaked in mystery and scandal, and oh boy, the rumors about him are juicy. High before performances? Could be. Selling himself to the highest bidder? Quite possibly. Yet, despite these delicious rumors, there's so much more to Sasya than meets the eye. What really gives "Solo For Two" its edge is the intoxicating storyline. It's filled with lost love, betrayal, and revenge, but it's not all doom and gloom. There's an undercurrent of redemption, of seeking forgiveness, that keeps you hooked page after page. And then there's the return of Sasya's past love. Oh, the drama! You could cut the tension with a knife. Their reunion is a combustible mix of pent-up anger, lingering affection, and undeniable chemistry. It's an emotional tango that will have your heart pounding and your fingers itching to turn the page. In short, "Solo For Two" is an exhilarating ride. It's a must-read for anyone who loves a good scandal, a complex character study, and a story line that pulls you in and doesn't let go. So put on your dancing shoes and pirouette right into the dazzling drama of "Solo For Two" – you won't regret it! Be sure to check out my other reviews here on BLU!

Wow, "Dark Heaven" is a rollercoaster! This #manhwa really has a really special style. Set in a city that's a paradox of progress and prejudice, it's a story that grabs you by the heart and doesn't let go. Conor, a resilient Korean-American, teams up with blue-eyed, blonde-haired Simon to form a band, creating a bond that grows into something deeper. Together, they carve out their own personal "dark heaven" in an abandoned church - a refuge from a society that's less than welcoming. This metamorphosis is just as captivating as it sounds! Expect to laugh, tear up, and reflect. It doesn't shy away from the harsh realities but offers glimmers of hope and triumph, making it a captivating read. The characters? They're the real stars! Each one is so unique and well-rounded that you'll find yourself rooting for them, their struggles and their joys. Conor and Simon, in particular, are a treat to follow - so complex and endearing. And let's talk about the art! It's so captivating, you'll want to pause on each panel. The attention to detail, the mood, the emotions - it's all there in the stunning illustrations. The art isn't just beautiful, it's an essential part of the storytelling. "Dark Heaven" is a must-read, an exploration of love, identity, and acceptance that's as unique as it's impactful. Prepare to have your heartstrings tugged and your thoughts provoked. Be sure to check out my other reviews here on BLU!

Alright, let's chat about "Dear Door" a Boys Love #Manhwa that will absolutely blow your mind! At first glance, it's a tale about our guy Kyungjoon, a heartbroken cop who'd rather be fussing over his house plants than dealing with life's complexities. But hang on, because things take a thrilling turn, catapulting Kyungjoon straight into a world of mysterious cults, spine-tingling supernatural occurrences, and creatures that go bump in the night! And then there's Lord Cain, the demon king who's equal parts terrifying and tantalizing. If you thought your love life was complicated, imagine having a mana-laden "door" within you that a demon king needs to survive. Talk about intense! One of the most striking things about "Dear Door" is the beautiful and seductive artwork. I mean, it's literally like every panel is a feast for your eyes. The detail, the vibrancy of the characters, the nuanced expressions - all of it adds a whole new level of depth and immersion to the story. You'll find yourself pausing to admire the artistry, and there's no doubt you'll fall a little bit in love with these beautifully rendered characters. The plot keeps you gripped from the get-go. So, if you're in for a beautiful, intense, and mind-bending journey, "Dear Door" is waiting to whisk you away into its extraordinary world! Be sure to check out my other reviews here on BLU!

We recently caught up with the awesome hosts of The Yaoi Shelf, AuthorCarola and AichiYume. We chatted all things yaoi, shonen ai, and boy's love, digging into tropes and media criticism along the way. It was just like pulling up a comfy chair and diving into a great book. So come on, let's revisit this fun convo and get lost in The Yaoi Shelf together. 1. Could you both tell us how you got into Yaoi and why you decided to share this interest through a podcast? Carola: I got into BL half a lifetime ago, and though I can’t pinpoint the exact moment, it was definitely through fandom. When I got into Naruto, and fell headfirst into SasuNaru that was when the floodgates opened and I started consuming and creating BL content. Through Livejournal I found communities for original BL works, manga translations etc. and I was officially hooked! As for the podcast aspect, it was sort of a fluke on my part? Amanda and I were brought together through a panel we did at Casacon, and after that she invited me to join her on The Yaoishelf. Because I love screeching about BL and fictional characters with friends and others who are just as obsessed as me, I couldn’t resist the offer! Amanda: I got into BL as almost a natural part of being a fangirl and fanfic writer. I fell into it with Gravitation and SasuNaru around 16 years old. Of course I felt like I was home immediately. I wrote fanfic, roleplayed, cosplayed, did fandubs and read excessive amounts of shonen ai and yaoi. Now I almost exclusively write BL content when I’m not writing non-fiction! As far as the podcast, yep! Carola is right. We were paired together for a panel and we just clicked. My previous co-host decided to leave the show and I had to fill that void very quickly and Carola was the first person that came to mind. She’s an amazing addition to the show and I’m so lucky to have her as my other half! 2. What does 'The Yaoi Shelf' mean to you and what should it mean to your listeners? Carola: For me, TYS is a way to gush endlessly about my passion, rant about the bad and the ugly, and laugh until my face hurts with Amanda and our listeners. It means a lot that we get to have this platform to explore and uplift the genre, and gaining valuable insights and skills (such as how to actually speak into your mic, lol) along the way! To the listeners I guess it’s all individual, but as long as it is something that makes them smile and makes them feel like they’re not the only ones who like/dislike a certain trope, or has had a certain kind of experience, that makes me happy! If nothing else, I want listeners to take pride in their interests and enjoy BL to the fullest! Amanda: The show got its name from the one or two shelves that used to be at the now closed bookstore Borders that had shonen ai and yaoi. Back then, it was a popular hangout to sit and talk about what we were reading and generally just be fujin together. I wanted to take that concept and make it into a podcast: a safe space for fujin to think critically, learn about new series and overall love what they love. For me personally, it’s a couple of hours with one of my best friends where I get to smile and laugh and share my passion with others. 3. What, in your opinion, sets Yaoi, Shonen Ai, and Boy's Love apart from other types of manga and anime? Carola: I guess at first glance: the subject matter, focusing on MLM relations. But the cool thing about manga/anime is that it encompasses such a wide variation of genres and sub-genres for all types of audiences, and that includes within the BL genre as well. So within that space of gay subject matter, you can have pure tooth-rotting fluff, but also slice of life, or dark, twisted stories, and protagonists who can be anything from detectives to school boys to mafia. In many ways, BL transcends genre, but it also has specific conventions and frameworks that exclusively apply to BL. Amanda: To me it’s always been that yaoi means a Japanese homoerotic comic book that shows explicit sexual acts. Shonen ai similarly is a Japanese comic book but doesn’t show any of the lewd stuff and boy’s love is a catch all sort of like mlm romance for the stuff that doesn’t fit neatly into the above categories. My definitions are much looser now but of course were set in stone due to how rigid fandom in the early 2000s was. 4. You mention discussing tropes in your podcast. Could you provide examples of the most common tropes you've encountered in Yaoi and how they impact the genre? Carola: I want to start by saying that all media has tropes, and that that’s not a bad thing! However, some of the recurring tropes we tend to talk about include internalized homophobia, non-con and rigid stereotypes, which are often used to argue against the genre on a whole, and labeling it as bad representation, or even toxic. To those who are unfamiliar with the genre that can paint an adverse picture and squick people away from it entirely. But like I said before, BL can be so versatile! And tropes are often subverted or reinvented as well! I think it’s important to remember that tropes aren’t bad – we all have our favorites – and many of them have had a huge impact on shaping the genre; be that the tragic schoolboy love stories, or the inherent taboos of “but… you’re a man!” Amanda: Just as Carola said, all media has tropes and BL tropes of course have their roots in shoujo manga. When people express frustration in BL and yaoi, I’m quick to ask if they have the same issues in other manga and it’s typically all the tropes that are from the old shojo roots of boy’s love manga. BL is full of tropes both good, bad and somewhat questionable and they are the foundation of the entire genre. 5. As you analyze and discuss these genres, what themes or issues do you feel are most significant or recurrent? Amanda: One I see a lot is the questioning of sexuality. Sometimes it really does take one exceptionally beautiful person to suddenly have you questioning every choice you’ve previously made. In boy’s love it’s usually played for laughs but sometimes that questioning can be tortuous and difficult; part of me almost appreciates the levity of approaching it like it’s just a funny nervous thing when in real life it can be quite scary. Carola: Yeah, like Amanda said. So many of us have figured out ourselves through consuming fiction, such as BL. Although it’s often portrayed as silly, the experience of figuring out you’re not as straight as you thought, is familiar to a lot of us. I also think communication is a big deal. While a lot of series are notorious for characters not communicating, we also frequently see how couples learn to communicate over the course of the story. 6. What has been your most controversial episode or topic so far, and how did you handle it? Amanda: Hands down the Pro-Ship vs. Anti-Ship episode with Aeri. The discourse is already very heated and we knew the risk we were taking on making such a strong stance. Fortunately, save for a few dislikes on the video, our audience and those that have come in searching for the video were mostly kind and eloquent. Carola: Oh yeah, that one was a potential fuel to an already raging fire. There is also the episode on Problematic Content featuring Peachie. It’s a topic that comes up time and time again, so we decided to dedicate a whole episode to it. But fortunately, our audience are mostly mature and level headed people, who understand the nuances, and don’t stir up hate. 7. How do you balance fun and entertainment with serious media criticism in your podcast? Amanda: I think I have to give a lot of credit to how brilliant Carola and I are together. We tend to just naturally be able to balance a good amount of humor and actual criticism just by the nature of being us! Carola: I second that! We can be pretty unhinged, which leads to a lot of laughs, but both of us are critical by nature, and enjoy discussing and dissecting the topics that come up and series we read. As we’ve mentioned, we’ve also had guests who study BL/Manga, and frequently refer to studies and papers we’ve read. 8. Can you recall a particular moment or episode that had a profound impact on you or your audience? Amanda: I think having Dr. Thomas Baudinette was a turning point for the show and the audience. We had a serious academic telling us that the fan sins we were guilty of as teens are not something to continue to beat ourselves up over and he gave one of the clearest and most concise discussions on the absolute nonsense that is the modern discourse around BL and fetishization. Carola: Oh absolutely. We can quote academics and papers all we want, but having someone like Dr. Baudinette on, and explaining in such concise words was a game changer. I also want to touch upon the Fujin to Queer Pipeline episode, which seemed to resonate with a lot of our listeners. That was the reason we did the episode in the first place, but I think it’s comforting in many ways to hear that you’re not alone in figuring yourself out through fiction, and hearing about the experiences of others. 9.What have you learned from your audience's feedback and interaction? Amanda: I think the biggest thing I learned is that we can do both as far as balancing like genuine comedy and pretty serious topics. I've also learned from audience interactions that like we are very, very lucky that our audience is not very vitriolic. They're very very kind to us, and you know even if there are disagreements it's always respectful and kind and I'm always so inspired by the people that listen and say how much at this podcast means to them and how important it is and how much that they feel like they needed this show when they were younger. Carola: Amanda puts it really really well! When I was brought onto the podcast I didn’t know what to expect, but it’s been such a good experience, in part because we have such a great audience. During our lives in particular we get to interact directly, and everyone’s so respectful and open to discussion with us and each other. No drama, just people being level headed and making good points. And like Amanda said, when people tell us what the podcast means to them, that feels really special. Not only that people like listening to us ramble, but that they find community in our little corner of the internet. 10. Have you had any guests on your show? If so, who was your favorite and why? Carola: We have had some amazing guests on the show so far, and all of them have brought great insight and experience. But if I have to mention just one, Dr. Thomas Baudinette was an absolute dream come true to get to talk to! In Amanda’s words, he’s an absolute academic superstar, and we’re so lucky to have had him on the show! Definitely one of our greatest episodes. We’re also about to welcome Dr. James Welker in our upcoming June episode, which is going to be great! Amanda: Just as Carola said, we’ve had several fantastic guests on the show! And the good news is, we’re planning on having even more on the show. When the show first started I was almost afraid to be overshadowed by a guest *laughs* which to anyone who watches the show knows I have this big personality that is so perfectly matched by Carola and all of our guests. I’m excited that as we grow as a show, more and more people want to be part of it. 11. How do you choose which works to discuss on your podcast, and do you take suggestions from your audience? Carola: It depends. Sometimes we just discuss whatever works come to mind mid-conversation, while other times we’ll make lists of our favorite or relevant works within a sub-genre, or a broader topic. Sometimes we dedicate entire episodes to a specific series or author, because we have so much to say about them, because well, we’re nerds like that. Lol. Sometimes the audience will suggest titles or creators for us to check out, especially during our livestreams, and we’re always happy to get recommendations! We’re also very open to suggestions for topics to talk about, or content to make in general! Amanda: A lot of it is a mix of Carola and I talking and planning and the other part is listening to the world outside of our little fujin bubble. A lot of it is responding to trends and what we see. Sometimes entire topic ideas spin out from a conversation we’re having during an episode. Sometimes we just get brilliant ideas and think we want to talk about something! 12. How does your background as an author, AuthorCarola, influence your perspectives in the podcast? Me becoming an author is directly tied to my love for BL and fandom, and the experiences I’ve gained through being so involved with those for such a long time, including having a background in fanfic, so it’s something I’d say goes both ways. Ultimately, I’m just a huge nerd. Being both a fan and a creator, I experience both sides. I know how passionate and dedicated fans are, and how important it is to uplift fanworks and not write it off and claim it’s ‘less than’ or ‘not real art’, because these are incredibly hardworking, dedicated people! I think for the most part on the podcast, I let my own rabid fangirl out to play more often than not, lol. But of course, we do talk about a lot of more serious topics on the podcast as well, particularly the discussion surrounding ‘problematic content’ and ‘good vs bad representation’. I feel like I’m repeating myself endlessly, but as an author it’s so important to express how we aren’t our characters. A character’s moral standing, choices or actions don’t necessarily (or usually not at all) reflect the author’s opinions. When we write, we’re telling a story, about people who have flaws and make mistakes, that’s what makes them interesting. It doesn’t mean the author indulges or approves of that behavior. In the same way that enjoying such content doesn’t mean that the reader would go out and copy those actions. There is such a thing as writing what you know – in my case, confused, gay and depressed characters – but if you just write the same thing over and over, it’s not very fulfilling. Fiction gives us the space to explore all kinds of narratives and perspectives, and being aware of that makes the process of creating (and consuming) a lot more interesting! As both a fan and an author I follow my personal taste in fiction, but I’m still not entirely uncritical, and that’s the perspective that I look at most discourse with. 13. Similarly, AichiYume, how does your background inform your discussions on the show? By day I’m a social media manager and media critic so every part of what I do directly impacts how I approach topics on the show! I started writing professionally in 2014 and had already established myself as a blogger! I’m a double major in English and Communications from a small private university so I probably bring a little too much trivia and head knowledge with me to the show. While I’m not a published author, like Carola, I have been writing fanfic consistently since I was about 12 years old and have returned to the art form so I am still very much in the BL fandom space as a creator and writer. So yeah, I use almost all parts of my day job in marketing and social media and my background in media criticism and love of the BL space into every aspect of the show! 14. Are there any misconceptions about Yaoi, Shonen Ai, or Boy's Love that you've tried to dispel through your podcast? Carola: Oh, there’s a lot. There are a lot of misconceptions and nasty rumors flying around about BL and fujin, especially female creators and readers, and especially in today’s climate. We spend a lot of time on the podcast talking about current discourse, or just drama, and why there are so many skewered perspectives going around. Typically, a lot of it is centered on claims about who is “allowed” to consume or create BL, and the inherent misogyny (esp. misogynoir) and erasure of trans/non-binary fans or creators. We talk about the concept of fetishization a lot. And I personally tend to get very strung up in terminology, because so many misconceptions come from things getting lost in translation, misappropriated or otherwise twisted because people use the wrong terms or throw words around without knowing what they mean. Amanda: I think one of the biggest things I’ve wanted to dispel with the show is that fujin are this band of just rabid cis-het women who are getting off on cute boys kissing. While sure, there are those fans in the fandom but increasingly fujin as queer, they are POC, they are so much more than just girls going crazy for cute fictional boys. 15. What is your ultimate goal or mission with The Yaoi Shelf podcast? Carola: I think for me, I just want TYS to be a safe space for our listeners to enjoy. I want the podcast to be something that brings people joy, maybe some fun new reads or facts and I guess just a feeling of community. Amanda: I joked earlier when talking to Carola about this question and said world domination but I think on a serious note I do want a form of that. I want this to be the go-to podcast for thoughtful discussion, analysis and community for fujin of all creeds and races. I want this to be the digital version of that yaoi shelf we all used to congregate around in the early 2000s. So yeah, I do want world domination, but only so I can bring as many fujin together. 16. How has the reception of your podcast influenced your approach to discussing Yaoi and related genres? Amanda: I think honestly knowing the scale of how many people listen to the show does impact sometimes how I want to approach things but usually while we're recording I abandoned whatever restraint that I had and just go for what I was originally going to say. Like sometimes it's a really really daunting thing to imagine; Thousands of people listening to you. There's a certain level of responsibility there, isn't there? But at the same time, I'm also obligated to say what's on my mind and to educate and inform the audience in the way that I best see appropriate as well as, the way Carola sees appropriate. Carola: Yeah, I’m used to doing presentations where everything is carefully timed and structured, so I’m sometimes concerned by how I come across in the podcast, where the format is so different, and we’re just chatting and getting carried away. I’m not always as eloquent as I want to be, and sometimes I miss my points entirely. But conversely, through talking with Amanda and our audience and guests, it does introduce perspectives I might not have thought about before, or influences I’m unfamiliar with. Learning from others in a different way, which is more interactive than reading books or articles for instance. 17. What advice would you give to someone who's new to these genres and wants to explore them? Carola: ENJOY IT! Read what you want to read, and find your own flavor. Don’t let other people or trends police what content you get to enjoy, but prioritize your own interests and indulge! Not all content is for everyone, and that’s okay! Amanda: Just try something new! If you don’t like it, put it down! It’s not as intense and high-stakes as some fujin make it sound! 18. Do you see any trends or changes in Yaoi, Shonen Ai, and Boy's Love that you think your listeners should be aware of? Carola: I think definitely two major shifts are that the genre overlaps more with so-called mainstream media, in the way we see more BL aiming for a realistic portrayal of gay relationships/queer lives, subverting or altogether moving away from the conventions we’re used to. And likewise, we see more and more queer representation in mainstream manga/anime, creating an overlap. Yuri on Ice!! Is an example of a series that is often lumped in with BL, despite not actually being one. The other shift is that as a genre, BL is getting more and more global, with content coming out from all over the world, Korea, China and Thailand being huge, but also other international releases, especially through indie publishing, webtoons etc. From what I notice in my local community, it seems like Danmei is the biggest influence on BL fans here. I’d say that there likely is some connection between the two, seeing as global and cultural influences affect trends and narratives. Another thing is the popularity of live actions series. I talk about this on the podcast a lot, but it seems like a lot of younger fans think of live action shows (especially Thai shows) when they talk about ‘Boys Love’. Amanda: I think the big trend that I’m cautiously optimistic about is how some popular series really become mainstream. I love that big series like Given and Yuri On Ice!!! got lots of attention but I also think it’s important to go back to some of the older BLs out there. The new stuff is a great jumping off point but it shouldn’t be anyone’s end destination. 19. How do you keep up with the latest releases and developments in these genres, and how do you decide what to cover? Carola: *sweats* A full calendar and an empty wallet, lol. We’re so lucky to live in a world where there is SO much content coming out, but realistically we’re not able to follow or cover every single thing. Between the two of us, we have a pretty wide spectrum of interests, so we tend to be up to date on different things. I think we largely try to cover topics that both of us have an interest and knowledge about, but often the overarching topic of the month is wide enough for us to cover different ground within that topic. I also want to say that Amanda is very good at suggesting and picking these topics, or shaping our loose conversations into a broader theme. Some of the time our episodes build on previous discussions, and others come out of our private chat shenanigans. Amanda: I am very selective with what I pick up because I know I have finite self space, attention economy and money. I do my research and try to watch what truly interests me but I’m the first one to admit that I am behind when it comes to a lot of the newer series! 20. Can you share some of your all-time favorite Yaoi and why they hold a special place for you? Carola: Obviously I’m going to have to mention Gravitation here. The manga specifically, because it really doesn’t get enough credit, and I’ve made it my life mission to change that. We joke a lot about TYS being ‘The Gravitation Shelf’ because we never shut up about it, but honestly, it was such a formative series for so many of us. The music is iconic, and it really is a much deeper story than it might seem. I do a whole panel on this, and we did a dedicated episode to Gravitation, but the tldr version is that Gravitation was a first in so many young fujins lives, that the story is surprisingly good, and though some of it didn’t age well, other parts hold up surprisingly well! I also want to bring up Ten Count, because it’s one of my all time favorite series. It’s angsty, spicy and absolutely gorgeously illustrated. I’m such a sucker for Takarai Rihito’s art, and I have the Ten Count Merch to prove it, haha! Also.. am I allowed to mention my own writing? I’ve kept some of these characters with me for so long, I can’t imagine who I’d be without them and the works they appear in. Their stories have taken me on this big gay adventure, and it’s pretty wild! Amanda: I feel like Carola already covered the obvious favorite Gravitation so I’ll go with the second obvious favorite to those who listen to the show: Twittering Birds Never Fly. To me, the series is the perfect modern yaoi: it’s sexy, complex, angsty, emotional and mature and it’s just gorgeous and I can’t recommend it enough. --- Contact us HERE to share your experiences, showcase your work, or simply geek out about all things BL. Let's keep the magic alive and thriving!

Where do I even begin with "On or Off"? This #manhwa is absolutely remarkable! Our main characters, Yiyoung and Kang Daehyung, are absolutely engaging. Yiyoung is a relatable, hardworking college student trying to establish his startup - which is a goal so many of us can relate to. Then there's Kang Daehyung, a compelling and influential figure at SJ Corporation. From the moment they meet, there's undeniable tension and chemistry. I was taken by the "office romance" dynamic in this story. The thrill and anticipation when the world of startups collides with the corporate world creates such an engaging narrative. Throw in a dash of romance and the story becomes even more captivating! The artwork in this manhwa is truly breathtaking. A1's talent shines through every panel. The illustrations are stunning and bring the story to life. The charm of the characters is irresistible, thanks to the exquisite detail in their expressions. The release of the drama CDs added an exciting new dimension to the story. Hearing the characters come to life enhances the connection to them. I definitely recommend them if you're as immersed in the story as I am! It gets 5 out of 5 stars from me! Be sure to check out my other reviews here on BLU!