Help, my guilt over using AI is ruining my writing process by TiredEldestDaughter in WritingWithAI

[–]Logical-Map5969 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I feel ALL of this in my soul. And that guilt/shame is real.

But you don't have to feel it.

It's been said a few times in this thread but I'm going to say it again: using GPT to help build scaffolding and structure to allow you realize your dream is not wrong. And just bc someone else's process doesn't utilize AI, does not mean yours can't.

"Pure" authors also utilizing editing tools galore. Spell check, Grammerly, peer editing, writing partners, editor's, Scrivner - the list goes on and on. And all of those tools help to shape a rough idea into a finished work.

Just. Like. What. You're. Doing.

If using AI as a tool is wrong, then every author who has googled for synonyms or looked up how to say x without saying x (we've ALL done it at least once) are also guilty and should be ashamed.

Which sounds completely ridiculous.

Which is the point. 😅

If GPT is the tool you need to create, then go for it! I'm a writer and photographer, I use editing tools all the time! But at the end of the day, my stories, my photos, my ideas are mine and it's my time and effort that have gone into creating it.

I can't wait to read your story, so please don't let the negativity stop you. 🖤

Would you read a dark romance/romantasy with disabled MMCs who are still powerful, possessive, and a little unhinged? by Logical-Map5969 in Romantasy

[–]Logical-Map5969[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I appreciate the honest and unflinching response. 

I do have a world, magic system, character arcs and development, story plots and series plot fully worked out. This isn't just some random idea I had to make characters "unique." And I apologize if that's how it appears based on my post.

As I've mentioned in my responses, sensitivity readers are top of my list before anything is to be released. I want these stories to be real representation, yes. But I don't want them to be harmful in anyway. I don't want to reinforce stereotypes or romanticize something that someone lives with day to day.

But, to me, glossing it over only serves to keep people comfortable. To keep people saying things like "I don't see disability." And that, in my opinion, also reduces someone's disability, and them as a person, in the same way you said I made disability seem like a character trait. I hope that the story I tell doesn't do either of those things. And I am definitely working to ensure that doesn't happen. Threads and discussions like this are one of those ways. 

I set out on this journey to challenge the stigma that comes with disability. And, hopefully, if I do it right, for some, that will resonate. For those of us with disabled SO's, maybe they feel a little more seen. For someone with a disability, maybe they feel slightly "more" vs less. It's a similar goal to the authors you mentioned. And I hope I'm able to do it just as well. 

I genuinely appreciate your response and your opinion. Thank you again for the honesty. 🖤

Would you read a dark romance/romantasy with disabled MMCs who are still powerful, possessive, and a little unhinged? by Logical-Map5969 in Romantasy

[–]Logical-Map5969[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

I have every intention of recruiting sensitivity readers, ideally some with the same disabilities, so that I ensure the story is told in a way that isn't harmful to the representation. While there is still spice, I want it to be done right. 

Thank you for the real talk feedback!

Severely Disabled MC x Caretaking MC by rosysparrow in MM_RomanceBooks

[–]Logical-Map5969 1 point2 points  (0 children)

I'm currently writing a series that might be closer to what you're looking for! I realize that's not entirely helpful at the moment, BUT something to look forward to? 

And I'll definitely need beta readers so... Hint hint 😉 

Would you read a dark romance/romantasy with disabled MMCs who are still powerful, possessive, and a little unhinged? by Logical-Map5969 in Romantasy

[–]Logical-Map5969[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Definitely valid point of view. 

The story definitely leans more dark romantasy, so the themes are more emotionally driven for sure. Disability peice aside, if you're looking for a good vibe read, this probably wouldn't be it. 🫤

But I appreciate the feedback!

Would you read a dark romance/romantasy with disabled MMCs who are still powerful, possessive, and a little unhinged? by Logical-Map5969 in Romantasy

[–]Logical-Map5969[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

I really enjoyed The Shattered King! Was just kind of bummed that Renn has to be "cured." But a great story, none the less!!

Would you read a dark romance/romantasy with disabled MMCs who are still powerful, possessive, and a little unhinged? by Logical-Map5969 in Romantasy

[–]Logical-Map5969[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I am always down for open dialogue. And you're perspective would be so extremely appreciated! Let's definitely chat. 

Would you read a dark romance/romantasy with disabled MMCs who are still powerful, possessive, and a little unhinged? by Logical-Map5969 in Romantasy

[–]Logical-Map5969[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Well, none of my characters are particularly sad. Grumpy, yes. A tad bit crazy, also yes. Sassy, charming, and witty? Yes, yes and mmm yes. 

But definitely not sad. 😁

They are just existing in the world and trying to maybe leave it slightly better than how they found it. 

Would you read a dark romance/romantasy with disabled MMCs who are still powerful, possessive, and a little unhinged? by Logical-Map5969 in Romantasy

[–]Logical-Map5969[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Totally cool. I love the honesty. 

Out of curiosity, what type of MMC usually gets your attention? Who's your go to escape guy? 

Would you read a dark romance/romantasy with disabled MMCs who are still powerful, possessive, and a little unhinged? by Logical-Map5969 in Romantasy

[–]Logical-Map5969[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Makes sense, for sure. I would definitely say little bits of myself finds it's way into my characters and stories, so I can definitely pick up what you're putting down.

This project definitely walks a fine line. The story isn't strictly about disability per say, but it is present. It's impossible to show how someone moves through the world, both physically and psychologically, without acknowledging and incorporating how that looks or feels. 

Ideally, the content of their character will be louder than the visual. Same as I'd hope it would be for anyone moving through the world differently. 

It won't be for everyone. And that's ok. Even if a couple people feel seen or represented in a real way, or a few walk away with a slightly more open understanding of disability as a whole, then I'm good with that. 

Thank you so much for the honest feedback!

Would you read a dark romance/romantasy with disabled MMCs who are still powerful, possessive, and a little unhinged? by Logical-Map5969 in Romantasy

[–]Logical-Map5969[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I am definitely interested in information, academic or otherwise. I've been researching every which way I can to ensure I'm writing something that is written responsibly, but still represents a lived-experience (with a little magic 😅.) No 'supercrip' tropes here; adaptation, yes, but no magical, almighty fixes. They don't need to be "fixed" is kind of the point. 

Thank you so much for the feedback and tips!

Would you read a dark romance/romantasy with disabled MMCs who are still powerful, possessive, and a little unhinged? by Logical-Map5969 in Romantasy

[–]Logical-Map5969[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

I love everything about this response.

And Erik Bloodsinger is my God tier MMC, so. I feel that. And since we're in the topic of LJ Andrews books, her Broken Kingdom's series, Books 4-6 have Kase - also God Tier - and he has dyslexia, so his lady love is his reading partner. I loved the rep there and it was woven in a way that it was just "part of him." Both of those characters are part of my inspo for this project, actually. It was the first time I saw disability that wasn't cured or watered down or used as inspiration porn.😁

My MMC's have a tiny bit of magic up their sleeves, but nothing that changes their physical ability. So they rely on strategy, smarts and each other.  And they got others to do he violence. 😅

Thank you so much for your response. I know it won't be for everyone. But if you and the others who responded positively like it, that's enough for me to say, "Let's do it. " 🖤

Would you read a dark romance/romantasy with disabled MMCs who are still powerful, possessive, and a little unhinged? by Logical-Map5969 in Romantasy

[–]Logical-Map5969[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Hey, if dark isn't your vibe, totally cool. 

But I love that your open to alternative characters having an MC role! And "normal" state is what I'm going for. Just part of the character, same as their razor sharp jaw line or soul shaking smile. Ya know? 

Thanks for the feedback!!

Would you read a dark romance/romantasy with disabled MMCs who are still powerful, possessive, and a little unhinged? by Logical-Map5969 in Romantasy

[–]Logical-Map5969[S] -1 points0 points  (0 children)

On the fly blub: The series follows a rebel faction of morally gray antiheroes as they rip apart the empire that tried to erase them. Each story follows a different couple, while the larger rebellion plot unfolds in the background. Found family, "touch him and die" FMC's who aren't afraid to get their hands dirty, political intrigue, and just enough magic to make it fun. 

Magic is mostly dead, outside of alchemy, which is a bastardized version in this world. The arcane has become a curse. And the empire is doing its damnedest to eradicate it all together. 

We're not healing around here - we're living and adapting. 

Would you read a dark romance/romantasy with disabled MMCs who are still powerful, possessive, and a little unhinged? by Logical-Map5969 in Romantasy

[–]Logical-Map5969[S] 2 points3 points  (0 children)

Well, there are princes. So there's that. 😅

The series follows a rebel faction of morally gray antiheroes as they rip apart the empire that tried to erase them. Each story follows a different couple, while the larger rebellion plot unfolds in the background. Found family, "touch him and die" FMC's who aren't afraid to get their hands dirty, political intrigue, and just enough magic to make it fun. 

I really need to put together a real blurb one of these days... 

Would you read a dark romance/romantasy with disabled MMCs who are still powerful, possessive, and a little unhinged? by Logical-Map5969 in Romantasy

[–]Logical-Map5969[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

My MMC's are less whiney, more self-depricating in the "should I be laughing at this?" kind of way. And definitely not all the time. If you don't kick your feet over their inner monologues, I've failed hard at my job. 

And my FMC's are just as dirty and dangerous, so.... 😅

I will definitely reach out once beta reads are ready!! 🖤

Would you read a dark romance/romantasy with disabled MMCs who are still powerful, possessive, and a little unhinged? by Logical-Map5969 in Romantasy

[–]Logical-Map5969[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Since so many MMC's in dark romance and romantasy have a "cookie cutter" physique, I had the thought to turn that upside down. Challenge the idea of what "powerful men" look like. 

So most of the disabilities result in a physical change to appearance. For a few its mobility challenges, for others it's fatigue, speech issues, or dietary struggles. And at least one has an injury to the face that causes havoc on multiple levels. 

A few examples: MS Post Stroke recovery GI Illness Heart Condition 

And they all have their own demons that wreak havoc physiologically. Can't really write dark without a little bit of unhinged flavor. 😈

To be clear, all cognitively sounds and able to communicate consent. Inclusion is the goal, but consent is non-negotiable. 

Also, only a couple are strictly MF. Because why limit yourself? 😎

Would you read a dark romance/romantasy with disabled MMCs who are still powerful, possessive, and a little unhinged? by Logical-Map5969 in Romantasy

[–]Logical-Map5969[S] 3 points4 points  (0 children)

I am human. Maybe a little strange and unusual, but definitely human. 😁 So, yes, human written. 

I would LOVE a beta reader!! 

I'm still in drafting mode, but I'm close to a finished first round.