I will sing it for you gladly

[sansanficrec]

Q&A with starbird1

Get to know the SanSan fandom’s own little bird, @starbird1!

How long have you been writing fic? 

Since late 2011/early 2012. I intended to just try my hand at a one-shot but it kept expanding and expanding as I felt the need to add background and details and then I got interested in putting Sandor and Sansa into certain situations. That became Something to Worship. I mentioned somewhere that that was my first fic and someone complimented my work and asked if I was sure I’d never written fic before. :-) That was enough to keep me going.

Did you write before that? 

I hadn’t since college, which was about 11 or 12 years prior. I’ve always liked writing, though, and, after my first child was born and I was housebound a lot, I was dying for a creative outlet. Fic became that outlet. I’ve been hooked ever since!

How long ago did you join Tumblr? 

Honestly, I’m not even really here now!

What is the meaning behind your username? 

I originally wanted to be Little Bird and, shocker, it was taken. But I like birds and stars and star was part of an old email address I had so I added the 2 together and figured any crazy stalkers would probably assume I like boats, which I don’t, so it seemed both personal and misleading, lol.

First fandom/pairing? 

More like only fandom/pairing! Always ASOIAF and always Sansan! No other pairing has made me yearn for a union like I do for these two. I’ve wondered if I should check out other fandoms over the years but never had the time (and didn’t want to get into something else that would lead to another time-consuming obsession!).

How/when did you first notice (or start to ship) Sansan? 

When Sandor offered to take Sansa out of KL during the BBB. Sandor really snuck up on me. At first, I was kind of annoyed by his appearances in the book because I figured he was a minor character and I was already struggling to remember who everyone was and how they were related and which houses they belonged to and on and on. Then, when he threatened to kill her if she told anyone the source of his scars, I thought she was actually in danger (oh, those naïve early days, sigh…). I thought he was a rage-y jerk and I had basically written him off when he made those awful comments about Ned’s legs jerking when he was beheaded. Then the BBB scene came and, despite the above, it came across a little hot (forgive me) and I was like, heyyyyy, wait a minute …! Then I saw his previous actions in a different light and I’m a sucker for men who will actually lay bare their feelings so, after that, I was highly interested in all their interactions.

Is there a SanSan fic you’re particularly proud of? Chapter? Paragraph? Plot? 

I’m very proud of Seven More. By the time I wrote that, I felt comfortable with both Sansa’s and Sandor’s voices (as felt right to me) and it just rolled. It was so much fun to write. I was really happy with the development of the characters and their relationship. Sandor’s portrayal especially seemed to resonate with people, which made me incredibly happy. As for chapters, I think it’s chapter 10 where someone knocks on Sandor’s bedroom door and his way of getting rid of them was to have him and Sansa make sex noises and Sansa has no idea what’s going on. To this day, that makes me laugh. I was also really pleased with the scene where Sandor convinces Ned to leave town and then announces he’s going with them. I think it’s chapter 13. I wanted that scene to be tense and I felt like I achieved that. I feel like all my best SanSan ideas kind of coalesced into that one fic, to the point that anything I write now feels like an extension of Seven More on some level.

Any comments you’ve received that stick out, even now? 

Tons of them. I always appreciate detailed comments where someone tells you what they like and why (or what didn’t work for them and why). I love a good turn of phrase so any comments that include one I remember. The comment referenced above has always stuck with me. Someone told me reading Seven More offered them some relief/distraction from the death of their mother. It just doesn’t get more humbling than that. It’s always nice when someone is excited about what you wrote. It makes the effort worthwhile.

Do you use a beta? 

Nope. I have just enough ego to think that I’m actually a fairly good editor. Also, I wouldn’t know what to do with one. I’d feel bad if they made a suggestion that I didn’t agree with so I just muddle on as best I can.

Are there tropes/styles/genres you struggle with? Any that are almost too easy? 

Hmm. I have yet to write an unhappy ending so that probably counts. Ditto character death. I once got a prompt during a fic exchange for dub con. I really struggled with that because it doesn’t really fit my view of Sandor. (It turned into Unexpected Gifts.) Basically, I avoid stuff that doesn’t appeal to me (fluff, puppies, sad stuff). I wouldn’t say anything is too easy. I really like the push and pull between Sandor and Sansa so I find myself exploring that in various fics.

When you start a fic, do you know where it will end? Or do you figure it out along the way? 

I generally know where I’m going. I’m a planner by nature so doing it any other way would just be chaos!

Do you have any rituals/conditions for ‘getting in the mood’ to write? 

Nope. The hard part for me is finding a chunk of time where I’ll be able to concentrate and uninterrupted. I usually spend too much time rereading what I already wrote and then trying to pick up the vibe from there.

Have you ever had writer’s block? Any tips for overcoming it? Not really. 

My difficulties usually lie in getting the characters to say or do what I need them to to move the plot forward. Sometimes I find it’s best to just write the junk out of your system. Meaning, just get some words down on the page and fix them up later. Usually if I don’t get too caught up in trying to get it perfect from the start, inspiration will strike and the wording will fall into place. In other words, don’t force it.

Aspirations of publishing one day? 

I’d love that but I’m not currently taking any steps in that direction.

What are your other hobbies? 

I have young kids so time is scarce but I’m something of a gym rat. Ink and paper are my drugs of choice so I’m always reading at least one book. I’m a passive gardener and an active beach bum. (Yay, summer!) I dull the pain of winter by watching hockey non-stop.

Any tips for writers looking to post? 

Jump in already! The fandom needs you! Other than that, I think you just need to be true to the story you’re telling. Readers can sense insincerity and lack of commitment so own your vision and execute it to the very best of your ability. Spelling and grammar count so get that right. It’s also good to let your fic breathe a bit before you publish it. Forest, trees, all that.

Anything you’d like to say to writers in general? 

Thank you! Thank you! Thank you! I’ve received hours (and hours, and hours …!) of entertainment and enjoyment thanks to the bravery, generosity, and hard work of others and I love them for it. Oh! And keep me in the loop on any exchanges (despite my absenteeism on Tumblr)!

Anything you’d like to say to readers in general? 

Thank you! Thank you! Thank you! People have been so kind in response to my work … I don’t even have words. I never ask for feedback because you’re either inspired to leave it or you’re not but I truly cherish the comments and kudos. They warm the cockles of my little shipper heart! And keep me going. :-)

Anything you’d like to say to the SanSan fandom in general? 

I’m constantly blown away by the variety and quality of fic and artwork this fandom produces and I’m really humbled to feel a part of it. I’ve “met” so many lovely and talented people. It’s a pleasure!

Read starbird1′s library here!

[sansanficrec]

Q&A with swimmingfox

Get to know the fabulous (and published!) @swimmingfoxsticks

How long have you been writing?

Hmm, since I was a little person, I think! But more in earnest since 2013.

How long have you been writing fanfiction?

2013! I discovered it via Fanfiction.net and was delighted/appalled/delighted by what I found.

How long ago did you join Tumblr?

2016. It was purely so I could put up the picsets I had finally worked out how to make.

What is the meaning behind your username?

Swimmingfox is my Ao3 username - it was taken on Tumblr so, erm, I put sticks on the end. I like swimming and foxes, innit.

What was your first fandom?  First pairing?

SANSAAAN. I had zero interest in anything else for a long time (and rarely do still in terms of reading others’ work, haha, with some exceptions).

When did you first get into SanSan?

2013. I had only just discovered GoT (on TV), binged the first two seasons and was taken with their relationship at the end of Season 2, then watched Season 3 when it came out and was baffled by that plotpoint not being picked up. Even though obviously he is FAR TOO OLD, gross, URGH. I read a bit about the books and fell down the rabbit hole (abyss, etc) of SanSan fanfic quite by accident after reading about ‘the unkiss’.

Is there a SanSan fic you’re particularly proud of?  Chapter? Paragraph?  Plot?

Oh, I’m sort of proud of all of them, hahaha. In a way I’m proud of the first one (Little Bird and the Colour of Fire) as I kinda taught myself to write fiction with that one. I had no idea how to format paragraphs or dialogue or anything, put the whole thing up at once (42 chapters, ha), and was gently advised by someone in how to make it better. But I’m also proud of Rebound as it’s part of my Potential series, and I really liked doing modern AUs for the first time.

Any comments you’ve received that stick out, even now?

Not comments as much as people I have met because of it (I’ve met 4 so far!), which is wondrous. What a lovely world!

Do you use a beta?

The magnificent eagle eyes of @zoesongs often looks over my work and corrects my spellings of Daario Nahaaaris.

Are there tropes/styles/genres you struggle with?  Any that are almost too easy?

Hmm, I’m always bang up for trying new styles - this fanfic world has been an amazing platform for experimenting with different approaches and formats, and has basically taught me how to write.  

When you start a fic, do you know where it will end?  Or do you figure it out along the way?

Yeah, I usually have an endgame, and then work out how to get there as I go along. I write lots of bits as they occur, and then fill in the gaps.

Do you have any rituals/conditions for ‘getting in the mood’ to write?

No, but it seems I often turn to fanfic writing when I’m sick, which is far too often - I think it cheers me up, both the writing and the love from comments!

Have you ever had writer’s block?  Any tips for overcoming it?

Sometimes things are harder to push through, but there’s usually a way! Writer’s block is almost always cured by comments, too...

Aspirations of publishing one day?

I am! First novel published last year. WHOOP.

Any tips for writers looking to post their first (or second, or twentieth) fic?

Just DO IT. But first, edit: leave it a week, then look at it again and edit some more. Start with a bang. Keep chapters relatively short and have plenty of dialogue to keep things moving along.

What are your other hobbies?

Swimming and looking at foxes, mostly.

Any general advice for writers?

You only need to say ‘said’ as in ‘she said’ as opposed to ‘she postulated/queried/gasped.’ Make sex scenes satisfying for the reader but always original! (I think if you wrote ‘she postulated/queried/gasped’ in a sex scene it would be marvelous and therefore very much break the above rule, arf).

Any general advice for readers?

If we’re talking fanfic readers, leave a comment if you like something as it means so much to the writer and spurs them on! It’s much harder than you think to a) write and b) have the courage to put it up. If we’re talking reading in general, just READ, yaaay. Books are the BEST.

Anything you’d like to say to the SanSan fandom at large?

Only that, truly, it taught me to write, and still does - and that without the SanSan fam I wouldn’t now be including ‘WRITER’ when people ask me what I do. So THANKS.

Read swimmingfox’s SanSan fics here!

Read swimmingfox’s full library here!

[sansanficrec]

Q&A  with ladytp

Grab a glass of wine and get to know @ladytp!

How long have you been writing fanfiction?

I actually went back to the folder of my first posted fanfic, and it was almost 6.5 years ago, September 2012… That was my first ever creative work I wrote as well, as I started quite late – being already adult, established professional and all that. So never too late to start, one doesn’t have to have grown up writing!

Did you write before that?

No I didn't - unless scientific publications are counted as 'creative' writing (well, to be honest, sometimes there was an element of creativity when trying to make one's data make sense, LOL!)

How long ago did you join Tumblr?

To be precise (as I like to be!) I joined March 1st 2013 – so almost six years ago… But it took me four months to make my first post (an awesome music video about ASOIAF and GoT), being initially a ‘lurker’ to observe and learn. I migrated there from Livejournal when things started to quiet down there – like a moth I was drawn to bright lights, moving images, and more of my fandom content!

What is the meaning behind your username?

My username is from the Livejournal times as well, as when I joined it, I didn’t grasp the significance of one’s url or username and just picked the first one that came to mind when filling in the details: “lady” and my initials. D’oh! Luckily I have been able to successfully have the same name in other platforms as well, which is great – it is easier than have many different names. I am also glad that it is not fandom specific, as my interests are many and varied…

What was your first fandom? First pairing?

Definitively ASOIAF – that was my introduction to the whole cultural phenomenon of ‘fandom’, devouring fics and joining communities (yeah, I am so far behind of everyone else – I used to have a life, LOL!). Sansan was my first ship, but I also had a brief period when I was very interested in Daenerys and Jorah (this was before I saw the show). Even though the show had a big negative impact on Sansan experience for me (not due to Rory, I hasten to add – but the storylines), it has still stayed my OTP in a sense that I feel most comfortable about writing them and their dynamic still fascinates me above anything else.

How/when did you first notice (or start to ship) Sansan?

My story is very typical; first reading their interactions after the Hand’s Tourney, then the scene of the Battle of the Blackwater – and I was hooked. Googling and finding fics, Livejournal communities and all the metas…no getting back from there! I mean; it is so blatantly obvious that I wonder who can read the books and NOT get the vibes??

Is there a SanSan fic you’re particularly proud of?  Chapter? Paragraph?  Plot?

Hmmm…’Which one of your children you love the best?’, in other words – always a difficult question! I guess I am still the proudest of “The Triangle”  It was one of my early fics, it was a long-fic, and it was about the subject I had been fascinated with for years and years; the complicated Arthurian relationship between 3 people who loved each other for different reasons (Arthur, Guinevere and Lancelot in the original, Sandor, Sansa and Jaime in the fic). Chapter-wise I am very happy with the last chapter of the “Kiss of the Blade”, as hard as it may be for some due to the character death implied. It has melancholy but also beauty, I thought when I wrote it. Plot-wise I am excited and happy about my current WIP “This Time, We’ll Do Better”, as although it has some common trope elements, I think they have somewhat cool applications and it is nice to write something more plot-orientated for a change!

Any comments you’ve received that stick out, even now?

I have to admit that again, “The Triangle” inspired some absolutely wonderful comments, probably because of its unusual premise. Towards the end, and especially with people who had read it in one go long after it had been completed, there were some wonderful convos going back and forth. I especially enjoyed the ones where people either told that they had had some reservations starting it, but then ended up really enjoying the fic, or the ones where they might have had some queries and doubts and questions, leading to a mutually fruitful and eye-opening discussions on both sides. Those conversations really blew my mind!

Do you use a beta?

I have had the privilege of working with two wonderful betas, of which I am eternally grateful. The first one was wildskysheri / wildsky, whom I “met” via Livejournal, and who betaed for me for “The Triangle”, “A Chance Encounter” and “A Premediated Reunion”.  She taught me – a non-native English speaker/writer – so much about writing and what to pay attention to and what to look out for. I owe her so much! After our ways parted amicably as she moved on to other things, I was without beta for a long time, not really actively looking for one, but when my path crossed with the lovely @hardlyfatal, I have once again had the pleasure of getting my words scrutinised by someone knowledgeable, making them better on “This Time, We’ll Do Better”. I honestly can’t speak highly enough for a beta who can make any writer and fic so much better!

Are there tropes/styles/genres you struggle with?  Any that are almost too easy?

I do struggle a bit writing babies and children, and hence haven’t written much about them… I don’t generally care for modern AUs either and would struggle to write a full story in a modern times – although who knows, maybe in a right setting, replicating the high stakes situation of the canon, it could work. Haven’t tried so can’t say for sure! Very fluffy genre is also something I don’t feel particularly comfortable with, nor anything where the characters are very young. And porn without plot is neither a genre I relish. The most comfortable genres for me are the slow-burns, where mature people interact with each other in a mature way (whatever that means…). First realisations of feelings, hesitancy, and all that. I also do like plot-driven stories that have a start, middle and ending. I am all open for fake marriage, bed-sharing, ‘there was only one room at the inn’ kind of genres – any kind of ‘forced’ situations where the characters are obliged to spend time together!

When you start a fic, do you know where it will end?  Or do you figure it out along the way?

There have been fics along both scenarios – some were started at the spur of the moment, with only vague ideas of where and how far they would go (”The Prophecy” comes to mind, which I started as a random holiday scribbling – and repeatedly apologised and updated my chapter number as it grew and grew and grew…). And there were the ones where even at the end I couldn’t decide what the ending should be, so I wrote two (for example “Past Was Such A Long Time Ago“). But for most I would have some idea about the ending at the start, and for some I would gain it somewhere early along the way. So yeah, it varies!

Do you have any rituals/conditions for ‘getting in the mood’ to write?

I mostly write over the weekends when I have more time, after getting up and having breakfast, reading my emails and checking on Tumblr and doing all the routine stuff one does – and then I open my doc and start writing… With my internet radio blasting on the background on some jazz or lounge or classic channel. I find it hard to write during the weeks after getting back from work and being distracted by mundane home things and TV and such.

Have you ever had writer’s block?  Any tips for overcoming it?

I did have a period well over a year ago when I felt I had ‘lost my mojo’. It was largely to do with the way the Game of Thrones show had progressed and changed the characters so much that I couldn’t recognise them anymore, and my initial inspiration of writing about them consequently suffered. Especially as the show canon started to take over the original book canon so strongly in many platforms, including fics. The way I got over it was to distance myself from the show and partly, unfortunately, also from the fandom (so largely focused on show). I had a nice break, didn’t read many fics, focused on books and generally took a step back. Then I challenged myself to write a new type of story, a plot-focused ‘action & adventure’ story instead of romance focused only. That inspired me to write again, and I have been riding on that inspirational wave ever since with my latest long-fic WIP!

Aspirations of publishing one day?

No, not really. It is a tough world out there, especially as writing has become more reachable to many people who previously might not have even considered it (yay, fanfic and other forms of creative writing and platforms encouraging it!), and publishing world is awash with submissions and self-published stories alike. Although I don’t know for sure, I suspect that wanting to become published would take much more effort and determination and will than what I have for now, as for me this is a lovely hobby, nothing more.

What are your other hobbies?

My absolutely biggest hobbies are food and wine. I have loved cooking, eating and learning about food and wine for most of my life and it’s really important for me. Cooking meals ‘from the scratch’ from their base ingredient is what I love, as well as learning to master new techniques, new cuisines and difficult recipes. When I travel, food is one of the main drivers for that too, and holidays are largely built around restaurants, regions, cuisines and wineries. Holidaying in wine regions and wine tasting is the favourite kind of holiday! Yet I also love everyday cooking – the beauty of this as a hobby is that I get to do it every day and can challenge myself, be inspired by it and practice it all the time!

As for other hobbies…not really… I follow the transformative artform that is WWE, especially Dean Ambrose, and love visiting historical sites and reading about history, but that can hardly be called an active hobby… I also make some photo and video edits for fun, but lately my writing has taken much of the time I used to dedicate to that. Yet I feel that what I have is enough – I have no desires for an active life with lots of different hobbies and activities.

Any tips for writers looking to post their first (or second, or twentieth) fic?

I hope this doesn’t sound too harsh, but it would be really cool if even those who write only for ‘shits and giggles’ would do some basic formatting and language checks… Things like how to indicate dialogue, spacing between paragraphs and when to apply them, and of course, basic grammar. There are nowadays so many websites advising about those things, as well as free tools (for example Grammarly), that they are accessible to every person with access to sites posting their stuff – and a simple Google search is your best friend. I recommend this because ignoring those things may easily drown even the most amazing story in these times of fic over-abundance.

Other than that, write the stories you would like to read yourself, and the scenarios you would like to see in the canon. Study the writing style of the writers whose stories you admire and see if you could pick up a trick or two from them (but not plagiarizing, naturally). And if you can, get a beta – it is not absolutely necessary, but would give you a second opinion and advice from a trusted person. Oh, and give yourself a break between writing and final editing – ideally have a buffer of chapters in a draft phase before starting to post, so whenever you write something new, you can afford to let it rest for a while before getting back to it with fresh eyes. And have fun!

Anything you’d like to say to writers in general?

Don’t get hung up on statistics or comparisons. Think why you are writing – is it because everyone does it and you feel you should too, or because you truly enjoy it, or because of the stories themselves, or because you have an internal urge to do it, or it is part of your social networking activities… all are valid reasons, but once you define what they are for you, the easier it is to focus on it and the satisfaction it gives to you.

Anything you’d like to say to readers in general?

If you like a fic, don’t be shy about commenting, as it truly means so much to the writers… Even simplest comment is gratefully received. If you feel like wanting to pass on constructive criticism, first ensure the writer welcomes it, then formulate it in the politest possible way with positivism thrown in as well (and of course, make sure it is actually constructive). Marvel the choices and abundance of fic availability and acknowledge what a joy it is to live in this time and age when all that is possible. Enjoy!

Anything you’d like to say to the SanSan fandom in general?

Do not give up hope – Game of Thrones is over soon and we can get back to canon content, hopefully soon with The Winds of Winter. Whatever the further story of Sandor and Sansa is there, we know how important it has been already and nothing can take that away!

Read LadyTP’s SanSan here!

Read LadyTP’s full library here!

[sansanficrec]

The First Day of Spring- Yavannie   

Future fic, set in Winterfell year 309. Six years after the Long Night ended, Ser Jaime Lannister and his men have spent winter in the North. On the first day of spring, Lord Stark takes them hunting, and when they return early following the death of one of Ser Jaime’s men, Sansa finds her heart stirring - far too late. Or is it? 

Some Place That Isn’t Burning- pinkolifant   

Sandor relives the day of the Blackwater Battle over and over again, book style.

Until Thine Will Is Done- LadyTP   

Sansa Stark, back in the restored Winterfell after the War of the Five Kings. By her side the man who used to be known as the Kingslayer. Also serving in the new North the man previously known as the Hound, and the warrior maid always proudly bearing the name Brienne of Tarth.

It is the long-awaited wedding day of Lady Sansa and Ser Jaime and Sandor Clegane is not thrilled. Especially when he has to live through the day again…and again…and again…

[sansanficrec]

Q&A with pinkolifant

Fun fact:  at 600k+ words, A Hundred Days is more than twice as long as Game of Thrones. And it’s not even finished yet.  Get to know @pinkolifant, one of SanSan’s greatest contributors.

How long have you been writing fanfiction?

In September 2013.

How long ago did you join Tumblr?

Probably in 2016 but I don’t even know. I’m not really on Tumblr. Just my nickname is there.

What is the meaning behind your username?

Pinkolifant is just a pink elephant. He’s different in a way which isn’t cool. Merely different. He likes it that way. Hiding behind him, there is a writer who might never come fully out of her closet, but she is trying.

What was the first fandom you really got into?  Who was your first ‘ship’?

The only fandom I ever kind of got into was SanSan. Probably because out of all various literature/screen couples I fancy seeing together or imagining better or different futures for them, SanSan have been the strongest obsession. I wrote for several other fandoms as a complete outsider, caring about the topic of course, but not really following what other fans were doing or thinking.

When did you first get into SanSan?

I started lurking in the fandom in summer 2011 to see what others make of it. At some point I joined the two SanSan communities at LiveJournal and lurked at the content. At that point, the one founded by the_moonmoth was interesting. Autumn Wind my first story was from a prompt in that community

Is there a SanSan fic you’re particularly proud of?  Chapter?  Paragraph?  Plot?

Some Place That Isn’t Burning most of all. Bits of Mummers’ Show and a Hundred Days. Alyssa’s Tears, which will never get the epilogue that is still somewhere in my head. My personal favourite are Mummers which is me joking with myself and with old-fashioned literature. In some objective world that doesn’t exist, Alyssa and Some Place may be the best SanSan fics I wrote.

Any SanSan fic of your own that you wish got more attention?

I think that all my fics got more attention that they deserve.

At the same time, I crave more attention for all of them and I get happy like a three year old when I have new readers, likes, bookmarks and comments.

Any comments you’ve received that stick out, even now?

Unhelpful comments on a Hundred Days from the anon who went by the name of dave. Not easily forgotten )) But kind of set aside right now because who cares?

A huge number of undeserved lovely comments on various spastic fantastic fics I dared post. THANK YOU ALL who saw the light in any of it. It’s really rewarding to see that something I wrote/conjured made someone else feel in general and/or feel good/elated etc whatever.

Do you use a beta? Or anyone to help with your stories in any way?

I had three amazing beta readers and I’ll be eternally grateful for all their help. TopShelfCrazy, @lizstargaryen and @hardlyfatal. Especially Alyssa’s Tears would not be what it is without TopShelf.

Are there tropes/styles/genres you struggle with?  Any that are almost too easy?

Smut isn’t my thing. Multi-character plots come (almost too) easy. But the best is to come up with that one good line somewhere in the story that just fits. And you are confident already when you put it down that that one is so good in its context that the readers will see it too. And you’re mostly right.

When you start a fic, do you know where it will end?  Or do you figure it out along the way?

I have to know how it ends and the elements that stick out in the middle, the whole basic idea, if not, I don’t start. But I change the path that leads to those important events and the end very much along the way. Sometimes I lose my breath and then I find it again.

Do you have any rituals/conditions for ‘getting in the mood’ to write?

Alone, when everyone is asleep. Occasionally in public transport or on the passenger seat in a car or flying. Long- distance travel really produces lots of fanfiction in my case ))

Have you ever had writer’s block?  Any tips for overcoming it?

Yup. Tips: give it time. At some point it will go away, somehow. Engage in brainstorming around the topic. It might help. Do exhaustive sports and let your mind wander freely about the place where you’re stuck. You have to free your mind somehow and you will find the way out.

Aspirations of publishing one day?

One day maybe when I grow up (laughs and hides).

More seriously, I’d like to. But it’s very difficult and therefore unlikely.

On the other hand, I’ve done some other things which were unlikely if not straightforward impossible with my background so one never knows ))

What are your other hobbies?

Real life survival? Music.

Any tips for nervous writers looking to post their first (or second, or twentieth) fic?

You wrote it? You think it’s not bad somewhere deep in your guts? Just hit that button. Yours ain’t worse than mine or anyone else’s, especially in the happy land of fanfiction.

Any general advice for writers?

Let yourself feel (for) what you are writing while you are at it. But then reread the stuff at least once before hitting that button.

Any general advice for readers?

You know better than me what you want to read. Go ahead, read ))

Anything you’d like to say to the SanSan fandom at large?

That I don’t understand half of it ))

Read pinkolifant’s SanSan fics here.

[mllekaren]

Sansan fics read in 2018

AlisaRB

Six Drink Sansa (1477)

Amuscaria

@a-muscaria Dogs and birds P.1 - An Awful Man (17247)  The Act of Gratitude (57970)

Andromeda964

Sansa Interrupted (5258)

AsbestosMouth 

@asbestosmouth Dragged (7218)

ASeasonOfPoison

Eddard and Sandor - Best Friends for Life P.1 : Red Plaid (1053)

AzraelGFG 

@azraelgfg A dented Armor to protect a She-Wolf P.2 - Her Knight in a dented Armor (66641) A Family Hound P.1 - Teaparty (2804) A Family Hound P.2 - PPM-Protective Papa Mode (6134) Amor vincit Omnia P.1 - Sweet Sixteen (3767) Amor vincit Omnia P.2 - Prom Night!!! (5181) Amor vincit Omnia P.3 - Sevenmas Surprise (4113) Easter Eggs (760) Not under my watch (1058) Rubber Accident (2105) Tea for Two (19531) The Division (6238)

becauseitwasreal

Game of Thrones oneshots P.2 - Hope is the thing with feathers (1719)

Book_of_Kells

High Society P.2 : Erin go WHOA !!! (2266) The Flesh and The Fantasies (6812)

Cecilia1204

@queenoferebor1204 How Sandor Became a Cat Person (1884) I Ain’t Dropping No Eaves! (1422) Oh Christmas Tree (2798) Suddenly (Insta)Famous! (4655)

cornix

@cornix-upon-a-time  Turn to Silk (7365)

DarkPhoenix83 

(Vermilion_Sunrise on ao3) A Belated Thank You (6k+)

dawntreader

@treadthedawn Steps (3018)

Dr_Supernova_Dragon_Cat 

@supernovadragoncat Thunderstruck - WIP- (73814)

Egleriel

Entitled (888) Mistaken Identity (2291) Nameday Gifts P.1 - The Nameday Request (1526) Nameday Gifts P.2 - A Request, Repeated (1419) Nameday Gifts P.3 - A Nameday Scandal (2114)

emmsi

Dare (1219) North (1806)

Fanfic_Addicted 

@sansanaddict Hot and bothered (51770) “I want to see your sword, Ser” (3541) NO! (1155) Sandor Clegane’s Guide to Awkward Flirting (168) Santa Baby (7155)

girloficeandfire 

Let Them Know a Better Day (5348)

GlowingMechanicalHeart 

@thequeenofhades Babysitting (818) A New House (1228)

GoobleGoble

Meet me at the Godswood - WIP - (24801)

hashtagsalads

@hashtagsalads Model Behavior (148622) One Shot (11375) Renewal (2810)

IShipIt32

It’s a marathon, not a sprint (20220) Podrick Effing Payne (6221)

janie_tangerine

@janiedean somebody to love (22598)

jenoftarth

Spin the Bottle (4039)

junojelli

@junojelli Lemon Balm & Winter Jasmine (3053)

KungfuChicken 

How to tame a direwolf (940)

LadyCleganeofTheNorth

So Cold (329)

LadyWynne

Absence Makes the Heart Grow Fonder P.1 - Innocent Hearts (1135) Absence Makes the Heart Grow Fonder P.2 - The Bloom and Bruises of Youth (2008) Absence Makes the Heart Grow Fonder P.3 - Love Conquers All (13992) Absence Makes the Heart Grow Fonder P.4 - I am Yours and You are Mine (8758) Absence Makes the Heart Grow Fonder p.5 - Winter’s Heart(3713) Absence Makes the Heart Grow Fonder p.6 - Call to Arms (30156) Absence Makes the Heart Grow Fonder p.7 - Little Wildlings (1763) This Year (919)

lemonbalmlemonverbena

@silkygoldmilkweed Hieros Gamos (Sacred Marriage) (10830) It’s my f–king luck (6023) The last time you have hands (3759)

Littlefeather

@thefeatherofhope A Stark Naked Surprise (9691) Wild at Heart (41523)

MadJJ

@mad-j-j Smile (1308) Somnambulism (8955)

maracuya

@thedropletsparkled Blackwater truths (481) The Things We Know of People, Or: We Know Nothing (5377)

Maroucia

@maroucia Huddling for Warmth (6235) The Summer Maid (27859)

MaxBetta

@maxbetta A Redhead Walks Into a Bar (707) Bar Code (1184) Beast of Burden (4315) Bird Watching (2135) Birthday Girl (930) Dinner With the Red Devil (2754) Happy Ending (1129) Hound1005 meets LittleBird427 (2212) I Carried a Watermelon (3953) Maine Attraction (3198) Not-So-Secret Admirer (546) Room for Something New (4668) Sad Single Sansa Stark Sensually Seduces Super Sexy Stripper Stud Sandor (1977) The Reluctant Valentine (509) Thirty Minutes or Less (800) Watch Where You’re Going (1188) What to Expect When Sansa’s Expecting (1254) Weekend Getaway (4482) Writer’s Block (831)

MrsAlwaysWrite

A Hound and a Hawk (23822) The Bartender (7711)

mynameisnoneya

@mynameisnoneya1991 Daddy Clegane and Family P.2 - The Princess and the Very Potent Potion (3485) Daddy Clegane and Family P.3 - First Things First (1947) Dirty Little Birdy P.1 - Dirty Little Secrets (9732) Hurts So Good (3554) Keep You Safe (2365) Make a Wish (1863) The Lady and the Stranger P.1 - Always Carefree (1833) The Lady and the Stranger P.2 - I Like You a Latte (1999) White Bird and Black Dog P.2 - Come Out To Play (3282) White Bird and Black Dog P.3 - Say the Word (4357)

Nevermore_red

@nevermorered A Hounds Hiccups (1665) Begin and End (Always Together) (16013) Fur and Feathers (78202) Fuzzy (8664) Get Her A Dog, She’ll Be Happier For It (6098) Lost and Found P.1 - The Set Up (10412) Shouldn’t P.1 - Should and Shouldn’t (7582) Shouldn’t P.2 - Shouldn’t, the Prequel (25065) Shouldn’t P.3 - Shouldn’t, the Sequel (33191) Sorry I’m Late (27008) Windows (15151)

Orphan Account

Champagne Glasses (1137) Pergolas and Haircuts (3347)

pinkolifant

Ithaca (1533)

plotweaver

@plotweaver Swimming Lessons (1273)

redcandle17

@redcandle17 The Reward (4141)

ricketyrunt

Stolen from the Vale (2929)

RussianWitch

Winter nights (4096)

SassyEggs

@sassyeggs74 A Song for the Stranger (4931) Shark (8489) Siren School (3283) Sweet Nothings (436) That’s Not Him (2267) The Art of Seduction (32373) To Tell The Truth (2329)

Schave7728

@wishingforalastingsummer A Night to Remember (10772) What the Fuck is a Selfie? (2364)

schmaenzi

Dare Or Drink (5780)

Shadow_Belle

Pups and Whelps (1128)

SharkAria

@sharkaria Dogs Don’t Eat Chocolate P.1 - Dogs (1753) Dogs Don’t Eat Chocolate P.2 - Don’t Eat (814) Dogs Don’t Eat Chocolate P.3 - Chocolate (2851)

Sherloqued

Girl from the North Country P.1 - Girl from the North Country (100)

SimplyLucia

@asimplylucia Play Maester (6266) Vile P.2 - Burning Bridges (69352)

SnowWhiteKnight

@snowwhiteknight Above The Rain And Roses (21193) Accidental Call (365) A Changing Wind (95500) Blood of the Wolf P.3 - There Castle (1068) Blue Screen (2726) Dreaming of You Tonight (2866) Fake It ‘Til You Make It (2820) Hey Sansa (1285) Listen To Your… “Heart” (14481) Lost At Sea (7501) My Favorite Teacher (4126) Red Knight P.2 - Where You Are (892) Rowdy P.1 - Let’s Get A Little Bit Rowdy (79304) Rowdy P.2 - Honey, I’m Good, I Found Myself a Cheerleader (1367) Rowdy P.3 - Like Father, Like Child (758) Stalker, Artist, Same Difference (5104) The Ring (25660) The Squirrel Made Me Do It (6418)

So_chan07

Le chien et la louve - FR -(882)

Stark_Knight

@amphipolitan The Gift (6099)

SuchaHag

@l60014 A Dance For The Dawn of Winter (1917) Rubber Chicken (2521)

SummerDaze

The Blind Date (4030) The Lords Command (361)

swimmingfox

@swimmingfoxsticks HAPPY NEW YEAR (3784) Potential P.2 - Rebound (17107) Potential P.3 - Futures (27442) Queer Eye (Sandor Clegane edition) (12301) Wolfgirl p.3 - Wolfgirl in Meereen (26446)

TameAVagrantLion

@tame-a-vagrant-lion It Might Have Been (980)

the_moonmoth

Blow Your Mind (2015)

thewolfhoundandlittlebird

Back in Winterfell (24310)

TigerOfSummer

@tigerofsummer The Way You Say Thank You (655) War In Her Veins (4127)

UnknownGirlClegane

Things you shouldn’t know - WIP - (20837)

Veei

@daisies-cats-and-spacemen Working Out (1229)

Vermilion_Sunrise

(DarkPhoenix83 on FF) A Sworn Sword of Westeros P.1 - The Tale of a Sworn Sword (22462) No Man’s Wife (17294) Reunited (8459) The War of Southern Occupation P.1 - The War of Southern Occupation (54591) To Honor Her Father (46959) Unplanned Nuptials P.1 - A Prize More Valuable Than Gold (11748)

wandering_gypsy_feet

@raginglittlehurricane Defined P.1 - To Realize (3386) Hushed (18404) The Gift (2311)

Zip001

@zip00198704 Barks and Recreation (500) Shake, Shake, Shake (1038) The Tree (899) Unnamned Fic (for Nameday Twin) (1503)

Hope you found something you like.

Don’t forget to like/kudos/comment/share your favourite fics :D

[sansanficrec]

Q&A with nevermorered

Get to know @nevermorered

How long have you been writing fanfiction?

I started writing short stories in high school, my freshman year. After that I wrote a few commentaries on Edgar Allan Poe for a newspaper. I didn’t publish any fanfic until 2015, but had written it for a few years beforehand

So, I started when I was 14 and now I’m almost 30

What was the first fandom you really got into?  Who was your first ship?

It was Buffy, actually. And I shipped the heck out of Spuffy.

What was the first fanfic you wrote?

It was a terrible time travel type fic for Sandor/OC and it was quickly deleted lol. Other than that, it was Should and Shouldn’t for SanSan

When did you first get into SanSan?

Hmm, I actually don’t remember when I got into SanSan. I was a show watcher first and I didn’t even realize it was a thing until I read the books. I have to say it was probably the moment Sandor gently wipes her bloody lip after Sansa was going to push Joffrey. That was it. They were forever my OTP after that.

Is there a SanSan fic you’re particularly proud of? Chapter?  Paragraph?  Sentence? Plotline?

Probably Deadly Savior is the one I’m most proud of. I had so much fun writing it and really liked the outcome. My favorite plot line was Finding Her Wolf, but I felt the execution came out a little wonky

Any SanSan fic of your own that you wish got more attention?

I’ve always been so happy with the amount of support I get from my readers, but if there had to be one it’s probably Windows.

Any comments you’ve received that stick out, even now?

The ones that include the readers favorite lines or parts. I always love hearing what got the reader specifically

Do you use a beta?  Or is there anyone who helps you with your stories in any way?

I don’t have a beta, no, but could probably use one lol. My sister is always a good person to bounce ideas off of, even if she isn’t in the fandom

When you start a fic, do you know where it will end?  Or do you figure it out along the way?

I have a vague outline, but I really like to let the characters write their own story.

Are there tropes/styles/genres you struggle with? Any that are almost too easy?

I’m awful with angst. I just want them to be happy as quickly as I can, which is probably why my fics are on the shorter side

Do you have any rituals/conditions for ‘getting in the mood’ to write?

Getting my kids busy so they leave me alone haha. No, quiet is a big thing. I talk out loud to myself, so I like being alone so I don’t look like a crazy person. Other than that, just my computer and some snacks!

Have you ever had writer’s block?  Any tips for overcoming it?

I have! I think that’s an affliction every writer faces. For myself, I like to do prompts to get the juices flowing again. It really helps!

What’s the meaning behind your username?

Edgar Allan Poe is my favorite writer/historical figure and The Raven is pure perfection. And my hair is red, so...lol

Aspirations of publishing one day?

I’d love to be published! I’m actually working with a publisher (also my brother in law) right now to get my original work published.

Any tips for nervous writers looking to post their first (or second, or twentieth) fic?

Just do it! Write for no one but yourself, and have fun! Ignore trolls and engage with your commenters.

What are your other hobbies?

Playing softball, reading, boxing, and watching tv lol

Any general advice for writers?

Have fun with it. Don’t stress writing every single day. Don’t try to cater to the masses. Write something meaningful to you.

Any general advice for readers?

Enjoy and please leave kudos and comments!

Anything you’d like to say to the SanSan fandom at large?

Ignore the antis and write, create, and publish!

Read nevermorered’s SanSan fics here

Read nevermorered’s full library here

[sansansecretsanta]

2018 SanSan Secret Santa Masterlist

Here is a Masterlis of all the work that has been posted. I am happy to say that we had nearly hundred percent participation! The Little Helpers are only going to have to adopt one prompt and I think that’s amazing! 

I also want to say everyone did such an amazing job and has created some seriously amazing things. And if this website is still standing next year I really hope we can do this again! I also want to give a shout out to all the Little Helpers because they were awesome and did an amazing job helping out. So shout out to them! (I won’t reveal them just yet because one of them is still a Santa 🤫😉)

SharkAria

amphipolitan

L60014

Bluelemonsforever & part 2

janiedean

8clarify8

salsita

thedropletsparkled

wishingforalastingsummer

zip00198704 & part 2

purpleisthebestcolour

sansanaddict

Maxbetta

The Next Cloak

cornix-upon-a-time

mad-j-j

Sassyeggs74

nobodysuspectsthebutterfly

mynameisnoneya1991

[sansansecretsanta]

Some people told me the link to mad-j-j is not working so try this one here

[sansanficrec]

Q&A with asimplylucia

Grab a glass of wine and get to know @asimplylucia

What is the meaning behind your username?

Lucia is the name of a character I created for an original story. There's something ambiguous and complex about her and I used to consider she's more interesting than other characters I created; that's why I wanted to include a reference to her in my username. On AO3 I'm SimplyLucia, but when I arrived on tumblr, this username was already taken. They offered a couple of suggestions instead and I chose the first: 'asimplylucia'. People sometimes assume that I'm Italian because of my username. I find it amusing!

How long have you been writing fanfiction?

I started writing fanfiction in January 2013. As silly as it sounds, it was a sort of New Year's resolution! Back then I wanted to challenge myself with writing in English (I'm French, I learned English at school and I never lived in an English-speaking country). Readers were kind enough to encourage me so I kept writing :)

Was ASOIAF your first fandom? Sansan your first pairing?

Yes and yes. I had never been in a fandom prior to joining the ASoIaF fandom. SanSan was my first pairing and I rarely, if ever, wrote about other pairings (just Ned and Catelyn, Jon Connington and Rhaegar in pre-ASoIaF fics).

How and when did you discover ASOIAF?

My brother made me watch the first season of Game of Thrones - you know, the season that was really, really close to the books... I was hooked, I discovered the books and I read them all. I'm usually not big on fantasy but these books were different. When you read ASoIaF you can feel how Medieval Europe inspired the description of Westeros and that's why I found the books engrossing.

How and when did you discover Sansan?

Hmm, I'm not entirely sure but strangely enough, it has little to do with the iconic SanSan moment of the Battle of the Blackwater. I remember reading ASoS and Arya's chapter about her time near the Trident with a wounded Sandor. Sandor's words when he mentions Sansa and tries to goad Arya into kill him left a lasting impression on me. I thought 'there's something with these two' and I couldn't help thinking about SanSan.

Is there a SanSan fic you’re particularly proud of?  Chapter? Paragraph?  Plot?

The fic I'm really proud of is probably Burning Bridges (a future fic and a Tyrosh AU).

The epilogue of There'll Be Some Changes Made (Prohibition AU), with different genres (diary entry, radio interview, letter...) and POVs is the chapter that gave me the highest level of satisfaction.

Sometimes I cringed when I think of what I wrote, but it never happens with the last lines of Two-and-Ten (a Sandor-only, pre-ASoIaF fic):

"Since the day he had arrived in Casterly Rock, exhausted and starving, people had treated him like a pawn, like a freak, like a curiosity who defeated older boys.  He suddenly looked down at his boots standing out against the ocher sand; for the first time that morning, he could say that they didn't seem out-of-place. If he didn't belong to the Golden Gallery, nor to the kitchens, he certainly was at his place in the yard. There was only one thing to do, now that Fat Jeyne had left Casterly Rock: carry on and not become attached to anyone. He had learned this lesson the hard way: people could vanish into thin air, or die, or simply disappoint you. And the end, you're on your own."

Any SanSan fic of your own that you wish got more attention?

Doesn't every fanfic writer want more attention for their stories? :) I wish Two-and-ten got more attention when it was published. It's a Sandor only fic, though, so it's probably not everyone's cup of tea. As for the attention my other stories got, I consider myself rather lucky, given that I stay away from the most popular genres like fluff!

Any comments you’ve received that stick out, even now? 

The first comment that comes to mind is one of the first I received and this person advised me to look for a beta reader. It was a good piece of advice, albeit unsolicited! The ones I remember come from people I 'met' thanks to fanfiction, like @ladytp, @blueSands, @mllekaren, @ladycyprus, @theimmaculatebastard and other friendly and generous people. Like most people I guess, the comments that make my day are the detailed, thoughtful ones.

Are there tropes/styles/genres you struggle with?  Any that are almost too easy?

People who read my stories will not be surprised: I struggle with fluff. It seems weird, I know. I feel hopeless when I write a happy ending; it's been done many times before and by more talented people. Darker stories or stories with an open ending are my thing. I don't really think about tropes when I write but someone told me once there's almost always someone who's locked up in my stories and it's true. I'm not sure imprisonment is a trope but if it is, it's certainly the trope that I find almost too easy.

When you start a fic, do you know where it will end?  Or do you figure it out along the way?

If I don't know where a story is going and how it will end, it's very difficult for me to start writing a fic. In the case of Burning Bridges I even wrote the final chapter before 'taking the plunge'! Other authors did it before me, like @weshallflyaway, I think. I like the idea of a detailed outline with a precise summary of all the chapters... But you know what? I almost always end up writing more than I initially planned, I change elements, I develop a subplot... Sometimes you need to change a couple of things instead of sticking to the outline you carefully wrote. Things are not set in stone, I guess :)

Do you have any rituals/conditions for ‘getting in the mood’ to write?

No, not really. I have a full-time job so I need to carve out time to write, whether it is after work or during the weekend. I can't be picky... My only 'ritual' is more a challenge I gave myself months ago: I try to write every single day, whether it is just a sentence or 500 words. This evening I was tired when I came back home, so I only wrote a couple of sentences and did some editing. That's why it takes me forever to update...

Have you ever had writer’s block?  Any tips for overcoming it?

Writer's block happens to everyone, right? About three years ago I received a negative comment that disheartened me so much it provoked a sort of writer's block. We should not take negative comments personally, of course. The thing is, I was using my own issues and my personal experience in the chapter this person criticized... It was like opening your heart and being blamed for it, so it hurt. They probably didn't mean any harm but... for at least two months I was unable to write a single line of my WIP - which I later completed. Is there a one-size-fits-all trick to overcome the writer's block? I'm not sure. Writing something different (a couple of ficlets in my case) helped me back then, but sometimes one just needs to be patient. Time will heal!

Aspirations of publishing one day?

Actually, I tried to publish an original story (written in French) a couple of months before discovering fanfiction. The answer was a resounding 'no' but it came with a detailed review of my work and some advice too, so it was a good experience. I'm considering trying again (nothing ventured, nothing gained, you know) with all different story but always in French.

Do you already have a story in mind?

Yes, I already have a story in mind. It would more like a young adult novel.

Any tips for writers looking to post their first (or second, or twentieth) fic?

Honestly I don't feel like I'm the right person to give advice or tips to another writer. When I re-read my stuff and edit it, I cringe, most of the time! Besides I'm not sure there are tips that work for everyone... When you're a fanfiction author, you just have to find what works for you.

What are your other hobbies?

I read as much as I can - currently reading Paul Auster's 4321 and the classic noir novel, The Long Goodbye. I also do yoga (yoga inspired my modern AU Upward Facing Dog) and I cook when I have time.

Oh, and I watch film noir. Did I mention that I love, love, love film noir?

Anything you’d like to say to the SanSan fandom at large?

The SanSan fandom is generous and welcoming: in this fandom I found a place where I can not only share the stories I write but also get support and encouragement. I just hope they know how fantastic they are!

Read SimplyLucia’s fics here!

[sansanficrec]

Q&A with thefeatherofhope

Get to know one of Sansan’s most admired writers, @thefeatherofhope 

What is the meaning behind your username?

My name here, thefeatherofhope is taken from the poem Hope is the Thing with Feathers by Emily Dickenson because I try to never give up hope, no matter how bad things have been in my life, and it's served me well.

My name Little Feather (Cikala Wiyake) was given to me by my great uncle, Don Running Bear, who was a Lakota holy man, during a naming ceremony when I was 14. I am not Lakota, however; he married into our family, but I am an honorary member. It was unusual for a woman to receive a name with the word feather in it because it is masculine in Lakota. He also named my grandfather Iron Horse (locomotive) but we are the only two in his extended family to receive such an honor.

How long have you been writing fanfiction?

I started writing creatively when I was 13. My grandfather had passed away suddenly and one of my school counselors recommended taking a creative writing class to work through the grief. I enjoyed it so much that I wrote both in school and in my free time.

I've written and published fanfiction since 2012.

What was your first fandom? First pairing?

My first fandom was Star Wars the original trilogy. First pairing was Han x Leia after Empire.

How long ago did you join Tumblr?

I joined Tumblr in 2012ish but I lurked in the Sansan tag prior to that.  I made my Tumblr to discuss my ship and also to provide a positive place for shippers. I met @momolady​ and @amaresepra not long after, and they share the same philosophy. Later they invited me to co-mod @bighound-littlebird​ with them.

When did you first get into SanSan?

I first got into Sansan around 2012ish. After watching the Blackwater episode of Game of Thrones S2 I decided to read the ASOIAF series and that sealed it for me. Sansa x Sandor is my OTP.

Is there a SanSan fic you’re particularly proud of? Chapter?  Paragraph?  Plot?

I'm really proud of Winter's Gift because I'm able to pass on the Lakota culture from the late 19th and early 20th centuries. It's a lot of work to translate English into Lakota but it's helped me to brush up on it.

I'm also proud of The Long Journey Home. It felt like writing success for me when I finished because I finally managed to portray their relationship in KL in a way that satisfied me.

I like the plot of Wild at Heart best, I think, I like having several POVs make up one story.

Any comments you’ve received that stick out, even now?  

I really like it when readers share specific parts of a chapter that moved them. It makes me happy to know I've reached others in ways that are unexpected. With Winter's Gift, I've enjoyed answering questions about the Lakota traditions and especially when they are eager to learn more because of it.

Are there tropes/styles/genres you struggle with? Any that are almost too easy?

I struggle with anything that's darker in tone, which is ironic considering the source material for my fandom. It's not that I am unable to write it, but I have difficulty subjecting the characters I love to horrible situations. I almost feel guilty about it, if that makes sense.

Anything fluffy and lemony is my jam. It's extremely easy for me to write these, especially if there's humor in it. And I think my readers can see that in my writing.

I definitely will explore more varied styles of writing in the future.

Do you have something in mind already?

I have several ideas for modern a/us that would delve deeper into the psychological impact of trauma for Sansa and Sandor both. The characters will have more darker aspects than I have previously explored. And there are more options for treatment for them in a modern setting.  I want to write them broken but recovering, and with setbacks, etc.

When you start a fic, do you know where it will end?  Or do you figure it out along the way?

I have a general idea of where it will end, but I am also open to changing up how I will bring about the conclusion. The one exception is Winter's Gift. There are many historical elements that I believe are important to include in a story steeped in Lakota culture, and it feels disingenuous not to include them just for the sake of bringing about a swift happy ending.

Do you have any rituals/conditions for ‘getting in the mood’ to write?

I have to have a nice cup of tea, that's all.

Have you ever had writer's block?  How did you get through it?  

Oh yes, I get writers block. It's usually tied to some upheaval in my life. So I put the story aside, get a notebook and write out all of my feelings about it. I write until I've said everything I want to say about it. When I get to express myself, it "unsticks" my creativity and usually I am able to pick up where I left off.

If the block is related to a difficult scene, I usually storyboard the scenes I want to write using images online. Having visual aids inspires my writing and helps bring order to my ideas.

Aspirations of publishing one day?

No, I write just for my own enjoyment.

What are your other hobbies?

I bake artisan bread and pastries. I make soap and shea body butters. I paint in watercolors, though not at the same skill level I had before I got sick. I foster shelter animals, mostly cats. I grow my own herbs and veggies. And I engage in humanitarian aid.

Any general advice for writers?

Since writing is my hobby, I don't have any academic advice, but I would say that writers should trust their own instincts. I know especially in fanfiction there is a certain pressure to deliver what the fandom wants to see, and that has its place but only to a point. I believe it's more important to tell the story in your heart. If you do that, you cannot go wrong. So have faith in yourself.

Any general advice for readers?

I would encourage them to share their enthusiasm with authors - head canons, pictures or music that remind them of stories, etc. Nothing inspires the muse quite like it.

Anything you’d like to say to the SanSan fandom at large?

I love love love the sansan fandom. They are so supportive and generous and an absolute pleasure to interact with. Thank you so much for your help, for the comments on my work, for encouragement. And also for the fun, fangirling, meta, art and fanfiction. :)

Also, I would like to thank everyone who has read my stories, I appreciate that they've given my writing a chance.

Read thefeatherofhope/littlefeather’s fics here !

[sansanficrec]

Q&A with redcandle17

Get to know one of SanSan fanfic’s earliest writers, @redcandle17 

Q- How long have you been writing fanfiction?

A- I started writing fan fiction when I was twelve years old. Fan fiction was the first fiction I ever wrote. At that age I was a huge fan of L.J. Smith's novels, especially the Night World series. I was a member of a LJ Smith fan mailing list that included fan fiction, which was also my introduction to fan fiction as a thing that existed. I distinctly remember the very first fan fic I ever wrote: I was sitting in the school cafeteria during lunch and I was thinking of Greek mythology and the Night World series and suddenly I began writing it down instead of just letting it play out in my imagination.

Q- Do you still have a copy?

A- No, I tore up the hard copy years ago, and the copy I had on my angelfire.com webpage disappeared into the ether.

Q- How did you choose your username?

A- When my family switched from AOL to another internet service provider, I needed to create a new account. I couldn't think of anything, so I looked around my room and I noticed a red candle. I needed to add a number to it, and since I was 17 at the time, I went with that number. I'm actually quite attached to 'redcandle17' as my online identity since I've had it for almost seventeen years. I've been redcandle17 for literally half my life.

Q- When did you first get into SanSan?

A- I first read ASoIaF in the fall of 2006. I was in a very bad phase of my life and GRRM's amazing world gave me a place to escape to. While reading A Game of Thrones, I didn't like Sansa at first and I didn't care about the Hound - right until the night of the Hand's Tourney. The Hound's backstory and him choosing to tell Sansa made him much more sympathetic and interesting, and Sansa's reaction to it made her more likable and interesting. By the end of A Clash of Kings, they were my favorite characters.

Of course, I had some qualms about shipping a character Sansa's age with an adult character, but the pseudo-medieval setting and the fact that GRRM used so many romance tropes with Sansa and Sandor assuaged my guilt. ASoIaF in general and SanSan in particular consumed me.

At that time, however, there were fewer than five fan fics in existence in English-speaking ASoIaF fandom. I began writing ASoIaF fan fiction because I wanted to read ASoIaF fan fiction. I made the acquaintance of other female ASoIaF fans on Livejournal and together we basically said 'fuck you' to the anti-fan fic sentiment that had predominated in the fandom.

I created the LJ communities asoiaf_exchange and sansaxsandor in the spring of 2007. Fanwork exchanges are a great way to encourage new content. It's very effective in a fandom as small as ASoIaF was at the time. And sansaxsandor was a place to ship SanSan in peace, safe from harassment from fanboys who looked down on shipping and were disgustingly misogynist towards Sansa.

Basically, I shipped SanSan like it was my job. :D

Q- Is there a SanSan fic you’re particularly proud of?  

A- I'm especially pleased with Songbird. I worked very hard on it and I think I succeeded in conveying what I was trying to convey.

Q- Anything you’re embarrassed of or wish you hadn’t written?

A- Not for SanSan. There are things I've written for other pairings and other fandoms that I think I didn't do a good enough job with, but I'm pleased with all the SanSan I've written.

Q- Any SanSan fic of your own that you wish got more attention?

A- A Walk In The Garden. I really loved the unexpected emotional intimacy and the sexual tension that Sansa isn't yet aware that that's what it is of Sansa's and Sandor's scenes together in AGoT and ACoK, and I wished there had been even more scenes like those. A Walk In The Garden was me trying to write one of those scenes for myself.

Q- Any comments you’ve received that stick out, even now?  

A- The best comments I've received on my ASoIaF fics over the years were the ones that praised my fidelity to canon. I've been told a couple of times that a fic could have been a missing scene from the books, which is the greatest compliment I could ever receive as a ASoIaF fan fic writer.

I also like it when people enjoy my SanSan crack!fics. I am very fond of my silly little crack!fics and I like knowing they amuse other people.

Q- Are there tropes/styles/genres you struggle with?  Any that are almost too easy?

A- I'm good at darker fic and at humor, but not good at all the stuff in-between. That's true of me for all pairings and fandoms, not just SanSan. I basically have no middle ground as a writer. I think it's probably due to my lack of patience. I like the immediate gratification of fluff/funny crack!fics and the emotional intensity of dark!fics, but I just don't have the patience for long, plotty drama.

Q- When you start a fic, do you know where it will end?  Or do you figure it out along the way?

A- Sometimes I do, sometimes I don't. Usually it's just a general idea in my head. I'm very much not the type of writer who writes an outline before they write a story. I just do it.

For a period of time when I was much younger, I did try using outlines since I was taught that was the correct way to write. But I found that once I had a story plotted out in a formal outline, I lost interest in actually writing it.

I want to be entertained while I am writing, I don't want it to feel like work.

I like just writing and seeing where the characters will take me. That's what works for me.

Q- Do you have any rituals/conditions for ‘getting in the mood’ to write?

A- There are some songs I find inspiring, so I'll put an inspiring song on repeat and try to write. Sometimes it works, and sometimes nothing works.

I'd put Sarah McLachlan's "Possession" on repeat while I was writing Songbird.

Q- Any tips for overcoming writer’s block?

A- The one that usually works for me is this: write what you *want* to write. Don't censor yourself, don't try to write what you think you should write, don't hold back from writing what other people tell you that you shouldn't write. Just write what you truly want to write.

Q- Any tips for nervous writers looking to post their first (or second, or twentieth) fic?

A- Even if it seems like no one will be interested in reading your story, there will be at least one person. It's a huge internet and no matter what you're into, there will be at least one person who shares your interest in a given AU scenario, pairing, or tiny obscure canon. Write for that unknown person.

Just don't worry about the people who may not like your fics, and focus on the people who will like it.

Q- Aspirations of publishing one day?

A- Nope. Writing is something I do for fun. Turning it into work would add too much stress and strip it of all enjoyment for me.

I would like to start writing more original fic though. There are some story ideas I want to read that won't exist, so I'll have to write them myself if I can.  

Q- Will you be posting your original fic?

A- Yes, I'll probably post the original fic. But I've got to write it first and before I start writing it, I want to finish the fan fics I currently have in progress. So that's years away.

Q- Did you make any friends in SanSan that you still talk to today?

A- I've met some great people through our shared shipping of SanSan and although I'm no longer really active in ASoIaF fandom, I've remained acquainted with some of them.

Q- Anything you’d like to say to the SanSan fandom at large?

A- Just keep in mind that HBO's show is essentially an AU of ASoIaF at this point and that whatever happens or doesn't happen on it doesn't mean anything for bookverse SanSan.

Q- Anything you’d like to add?

A- SanSan forever! I may no longer be active in the fandom, but Sansa/Sandor will always be my OTP.

Check out redcandle17’s SanSan fics here

And redcandle17′s LiveJournal for even more SanSan here

And check out redcandle17’s ASOIAF fics here

[sansanficrec]

Q&A with Jillypups

Get to know one of Sansan’s most prolific and beloved writers, @jillypups

Q- How long have you been writing fanfiction?

A- I’ve been writing for four years as of April 22 this year! I just checked on Ao3, hahaha. Oh wait, there was that Harry Potter fanfic I wrote like back in 2007 or something. WHICH IS GONE FROM THE INTERNET and it’s probably best.

Q- What was your first fandom?  First pairing?

A- Technically it was HP and Harry/Ginny and Ron/Hermione, but most recently it was ASOIAF and Sandor/Sansa.

Q- When did you first get into SanSan?

A- 2014 and it’s all thanks to “Watch over me.” By little_corners.

Q- Is there a SanSan fic you’re particularly proud of?  

A- I am extremely proud of Cut and Run. I still have a writing hangover from it. Like I’m sad I’m not still writing it, and I miss writing it almost every day. I wish I could RE-write it.

But I’m also very very fond/proud of a lot of others (this includes not just Sansan), like A Kiss, Just for Fun, Winter’s Wolf King and The Unpaid Debt, The Break and the Mend and All the Pretty, Pretty Pieces. Also The Here and the Now. I fucking hate Skagosi though, and am pretty embarrassed at the overly-styled One Fine Summer. Haha.

Q- Any SanSan fic of yours that you wish got more attention?

A- The Unpaid Debt!

Q- Any SanSan fic of yours that you feel has more attention than it deserves?

A- Hear Me Out, maybe?

Q- Any comments you’ve received that stick out, even now? 

A- Comments from @swimmingfoxsticks!

A- When you start a fic, do you know where it will end?  Or do you figure it out along the way?

A- I am firmly in the camp of Architect rather than Gardener, however details or side plots may develop. Most significant change I’ve written is deciding to keep Jeyne Pool alive and captive in Cut and Run.

Q- Do you have any rituals/conditions for ‘getting in the mood’ to write?

A- MUSIC!!!

Q- Any tips for overcoming writer’s block?

A- MUSIC!! I think, tbh, the reason that I might be stuck is that I’ve written fics to all the genres of music that I listen to so instead of getting inspired, the songs just remind me of when I was writing a certain fic and so instead of getting motivated to write something new, I just get nostalgic.

Q- Any tips for new writers looking to post their first (or second) fic?

A- Just do it! Don’t be scared! I only post on Ao3 so I don’t know how other sites are, but I’ve received nothing but overwhelming support and kindness on Ao3.

Q- Aspirations of publishing one day?

A- OMG yes, yes, yes. I just need to like, finish one of my original fictions, lol, instead of sitting around listening to The 1975 remembering writing Kiss the Girl.

Q- Anything you’d like to say to the SanSan fandom at large?

A- There’s nothing wrong with branching out and exploring different pairings, so be kind to your fellow writers/readers if they want to explore Sandor and/or Sansa with another pairing. Quite frankly it’s good practice as a writer and plot-constructor, to change up dynamics and chemistry, etc. If you just write the same couple over and over again, eventually it stops becoming a challenge and starts to feel a little stale.

That being said, Sansan will always have a special place in my heart. Love those two!

Check out Jillypups on AO3!

[mllekaren]

Sansan fics read in 2017

3rdstarksistr A Gift (5710 words) If Only P.1: Rescue (2080 words) If Only P.2: Crossroads (3444 words) Not a Good Man (3395 words)

Alaynes_Mirror Tempting Fate (5528 words)

AsbestosMouth Baked (87556 words) Shape of You (16435 words)

ASeasonOfPoison Romance Novels (1990 words)

AzraelGFG #SuchAGuy (906 words) Accidental Seduction (1085 words) Auburn like Flames (17695 words) Chicken and other Little Birds P.1: About Chicken and Little Birds (978 words) Chicken and other Little Birds P.2: Chicken and Chill (2719 words) Fluffy and Soft (725 words) Her Non-Knight in Dented Armor (1497 words) Ridiculous Sweater (1274 words) Sandor Claus 2: Return of the Santa (1259 words) Singing Birds P.1 - And the Birds Sing no more (173347 words) Singing Birds P2. - The Chirping of the Birds (6819 words) Window of Opportunity (2877 words)

Book_of_Kells High Society P.1 : It All Started With Afternoon Tea (8797 words) High Society P.2 : Erin go WHOA !!! (2266 words)

BookPirate Sansa Gets In Shape (9673 words)

Cecilia1204 Sandor, baby! (3434 words) Suddenly (Insta)Famous! (4655 words) The Santa Stand-In (35847 words)

Chaouen Fields of Gold (79784 words)

Cornix Flying Bird (802 words)

Dawntreader Saltpans, Riverlands P.1 - In Plain Sight (64071 words)

DeviationAbomination My Friend’s Wife (2356 words)

Emmaliza Dog With a Bone (1397 words)

Exactlyright loud noises and meet cutes (1678 words)

Firelark When In Qarth (3093 words)

Girloficeandfire Let Them Know a Better Day (5348 words)

Hardlyfatal Four Times Sansa Chased Sandor (And One Time She Didn’t) P.2 - Waiting For You (11675 words) Four Times Sansa Chased Sandor (And One Time She Didn’t) P.3 - This Thing Called Love (8205 words)

Helholden Stolen Moments in the Dark (2126 words)

Hollandoodle Ferris Wheel (4907 words) Happenstance (12788 words) The Best Man For The Job (6374 words) Willing Participant (25987 words)

Janina Ferris Wheel Fun (1825 words)

Jillypups Kiss the Girl P.4 - Kiss the Ghoul (7425 words) That One Thing (8078 words)

KellyDay This is Better (260 words)

Kingstoken WINTER MORNING (355 words)

Kitamere Besotted (3241 words)

LadyAndTheWolf He Won’t Hurt Her (416 words)

LadyCyprus, SassyEggs His Fiery Loins (2700 words)

Lalelilolu Enough (620 words)

Lemonbalmlemonverbena In from the cold (5935 words) The last time you have hands (3786 words)

Leobrat The Midnight Hour (2501 words)

Littlefeather Hiding in Plain Sight (3480 words)

LunarSinner Don’t Be Late (Unfinished) (12835 words) Holidays P.1: St. Patrick’s Day at the Stark’s home (3991 words) Holidays P.2: April Fools (2049 words) Holidays P.3: That’s…Not Right (982 words) Holidays P.4: May The Fourth Be With You (975 words) Holidays P.5: Under The Magnolia Tree (2479 words) Mr. Mom (8139 words)

MandiLu Jon’s Road Trip From Hell (1226 words)

Maracuya The Seven Fandoms P.6 : Salto IMPale (367 words)

Maroucia Adrift (121431 words) A woman’s weapon (28495 words) Like father, like son (2623 words) Sandor’s bloody letter (698 words) The love-philtre (87146 words) To train a hound (1080 words)

MarRaissa I can do better than that. (3676 words)

Misskayeedee Stories of the Song P.1 - Kissed By Fire (1632 words) Stories of the Song P.2 - A Song of Springtime (1326 words)

Momolady Hospital Halls(2405 words)

Mutents ride the horse in the direction it’s going (3502 words)

Mygiantoflannister Aegon’s Academy (UNFINISHED) (50912 words)

Mynameisnoneya A First Time For Everything (51849 words) All Fired Up (2018 words) Alouette (2704 words) Give It Up (2632 words) Colonel Sandor (1579 words) Going Down (4070 words) I Swear (6241 words) White Bird and Black Dog P.1 - Leave It On (2191 words) White Bird and Black Dog P.2 - Come Out To Play (3282 words) White Bird and Black Dog P.3 - Say the Word (4357 words)

Nevermore_red Get Her A Dog, She’ll Be Happier For It (6098 words) Lies He Says (775 words) Lost and Found P.1 : The Set Up (10412 words) Lost and Found P.2 : Found (or The Thrilla in the French Villa) (10506 words) Lost and Found P.3 : French Souvenir (6176 words) Price of Safety (2422 words) Shouldn’t P.2 - Should and Shouldn’t (7582 words) Shouldn’t P.3 : Shouldn’t, the Sequel (33191 words)

Northerngirl Gingers (281 words)

Ophelietta sweetest kill (5460 words)

Ownsariver Northern Lights and Midnight Sun (UNFINISHED) (236791 words)

Pinkolifant Daddy Sandor (3627 words) Finding (1524 words) Food for Thought (17843 words)

QuillyMartell1 A love for the ages (2817 words)

Redcandle17 Gift (3213 words) Queen’s Dog (2237 words) The Reward (4141 words)

Revolutionaryfury The Wild Ones AKA The Starky Bunch P.2 - open your heart, darling, let me see the blood and rot (2755 words)

Rosehustle1 A Wedding in Winter (629 words) Heart of a Dog (743 words)

Rougefox House words (1425 words) Surely You Know Such Things Do Not Exist? (17783 words) You Can’t Go Home Again (For the Holidays) P.6 : Sandor and Sansa Remember (7666 words)

SanSanFanFan The On A…. Day SanSan Smut Series P.1 - On a Woman’s Name Day (2469 words) The On A…. Day SanSan Smut Series P.2 - On a Man’s Name Day (5006 words) The On A…. Day SanSan Smut Series P.3 - On a Man’s TRUE Name Day - Part One (2510 words) The On A…. Day SanSan Smut Series P.4 - On a Man’s TRUE Name Day - Part Two (3486 words) The On A…. Day SanSan Smut Series P.5 - On a Maiden’s Day (4561 words) The On A…. Day SanSan Smut Series P.6 : On A Good Day - Part One (3367 words) The On A…. Day SanSan Smut Series P.7 : On A Good Day - Part Two (2733 words) The On A…. Day SanSan Smut Series P.8 - On A Stranger’s Day - Part One (3375 words) The On A…. Day SanSan Smut Series P.10 - On a Sevenmas Day (4728 words)

SassyEggs Bikini-Ready (10321 words) Daydream (920 words) Destiny (500 words) Intervention (3335 words) Just the Thing (12274 words) Plan of Attack (2212 words) The Hangover (6061 words) The Smallest Detail (5007 words) What’s in a name? P.2 - All the best swords have names (176 words)

SharkAria Kingstealer (78918 words)

SimplyLucia Upward-facing Dog (47969 words)

SnowWhiteKnight Alone On Christmas? Mad At Dad? (9365 words) Beefcakes (11321 words) Commandeer (6577 words) Creep (12389 words) Crossing The Troll Bridge (10996 words) Dreaming of You Tonight (2866 words) Holidays P.24 - Ugly (259 words) How Much Is That Doggy In The Window? (5748 words) Locker (58406 words) Love, Love, Love (3329 words) No, YOU Wake Up (183 words) One Horse Town (3753 words) Pillow Talk (241 words) The Demon’s Bride (52198 words) This Memory (1000 words) What’s A Rooster To Do With It? (577 words) Worse Things (13271 words) You’re Gonna Go Far, Kid (2806 words)

Squidproquo Back Against The Wall (WIP) (17483 words) Cost Benefit Analysis (WIP) (13189 words)

Starbird1 Unexpected Gifts (13554 words)

SummerDaze One day we will fly together (11223 words)

Swimmingfox HAPPY NEW YEAR (3828 words) Inked (25560 words) Potential P.7 - Baby (36886 words)

Thewolfhoundandlittlebird Love (161 words) The Desert (5500 words)

Tigereyes45 The Hound Will Always Find His Bird (1060 words)

TigerOfSummer The Education of Sansa Stark (2823 words) The Way You Say Thank You (655 words) War In Her Veins (4127 words)

VestaraKhai I Fucking Hate Gingers! (542 words)

Vivilove Bad Little Bird (1782 words)

WickedLilThing The Lady of Winterfell P.1: Into the Fray (361 words)

Zip001 200 Prompts p.1 - The Kiss (686 words) The One (3465 words) Witness  (702 words)

Hope you found something you like.

Don’t forget to like/kudos/comment/share your favourite fics :D

[sansanficrec]

The First Day of Spring- Yavannie   

Future fic, set in Winterfell year 309. Six years after the Long Night ended, Ser Jaime Lannister and his men have spent winter in the North. On the first day of spring, Lord Stark takes them hunting, and when they return early following the death of one of Ser Jaime's men, Sansa finds her heart stirring - far too late. Or is it? 

Some Place That Isn't Burning- pinkolifant   

Sandor relives the day of the Blackwater Battle over and over again, book style.

Until Thine Will Is Done- LadyTP   

Sansa Stark, back in the restored Winterfell after the War of the Five Kings. By her side the man who used to be known as the Kingslayer. Also serving in the new North the man previously known as the Hound, and the warrior maid always proudly bearing the name Brienne of Tarth.

It is the long-awaited wedding day of Lady Sansa and Ser Jaime and Sandor Clegane is not thrilled. Especially when he has to live through the day again…and again…and again…

[sansanficrec]

An Archive of Our Own, a project of the Organization for Transformative Works

Chapters: 1/1 Fandom: Game of Thrones (TV), A Song of Ice and Fire - George R. R. Martin, A Song of Ice and Fire & Related Fandoms Rating: General Audiences Warnings: No Archive Warnings Apply Relationships: Sandor Clegane/Sansa Stark, Sandor Clegane & Sansa Stark Characters: Sansa Stark, Arya Stark, Sandor Clegane, Tyrion Lannister Series: Part 2 of Nine gifts from the Old Gods Summary:

After the six great big monsters, Sandor and Sansa made three baby birds

[kateofthecanals]

People have been commenting that they are unable to find my video when they search for it and just happen to stumble across it randomly, so I added some keywords to the title and expanded the tags and now it’s the 9th result when you search “sansa sandor blackwater” on YouTube! Here’s hoping that boosts the view count!

[kallielef]

It’s been 11 years, and Sandor Clegane finds himself and his men in Winterfell seeking refuge before trekking to Castle Black. He was not expecting to see the girl, thinking her long gone with the rest of her pack. 

Sorry haven’t posted in a bit, been busy with other art projects….I wish I could get paid to draw GoT art all day. One day, one day. 

[amplifyme]

Ah, what a lovely gift right at bedtime! this will grant me sweet dreams. :)

[maxbetta-deactivated20220222]

[littlefeatherr]

@maxbetta Here are links to a lovely story and it’s conclusion that’s based on @kallielef ‘s post:

I’ll Always Be Back  and Home At Last  by thehoundandthebird

Happy reading!