𑁍Tiny𑁍

When The Fandom High Fades—The Hunt For Something New

You know that feeling when you're totally immersed in a fandom? Every day is filled with fanfics, theories, and ships you can’t get enough of, but eventually, the buzz fades. After diving so deep into Hijack and Buddie, I’ve reached a point where it feels like I’ve explored everything, and nothing compares to that initial rush. The emptiness sets in, and I find myself searching for something new, but it feels impossible to recapture that excitement.

I’m constantly looking for the next fandom to get hooked on, but it’s not as easy as it seems. I set the bar so high, and everything else feels... underwhelming. Even though I know there’s a whole world of fandoms out there, after being so connected to one, it’s hard to jump into something new. The excitement of discovering a fandom for the first time is what’s missing right now.

This isn’t the first time I’ve felt this way, though. The fandom cycle is something I know all too well. You dive in, get obsessed, and then, eventually, you reach a point where you’ve explored all there is. The transition isn’t easy, but the key is embracing the void. Eventually, a new fandom will come along when I least expect it.

Exploring smaller, niche fandoms has been a bit of a saving grace. There's no pressure to keep up with every update, and it’s refreshing to just enjoy something on your own terms. These fandoms are less overwhelming, and you get to decide how deep you want to go. It’s all about discovering something new without the stress of feeling left behind.

Going back to old fandoms has also been comforting. Rewatching shows or rereading fanfics can reignite that spark, even if it’s not new. Sometimes, the magic is still in the familiar. It’s about finding joy in what you’ve already loved, and that’s enough.

The beauty of this cycle is that we’re always searching for the next big thing. That’s what keeps fandoms alive—the excitement of discovering something that makes us feel alive again. The burnout? It’s part of the process, and without it, we wouldn’t get to experience that next spark. The fandom cycle keeps us moving and growing, even when we don’t know where that next obsession will come from.

Have you ever experienced the burnout of fandom obsession, and how did you deal with the search for something new? Did you find a fresh fandom that sparked that same excitement, or did you return to an old favorite?

my brain, two days later: babe… that never happened. That was a 30k word fic you read at 3am while stress-eating oreos.

After really looking at those stills… be fr for a second. Bobby? Buried alive? There is no way that man is surviving that mess. Like, I love him, but unless he suddenly unlocked Drax-level invincibility, this math ain't mathing.

BUT WAIT. What if—and I say this with all the seriousness of a cracked-out squirrel—the FBI (or some other shadowy government agency that only exists to cause chaos) rolled up and snatched him the second they realized he was still breathing? For what? I don’t know. Experiments? Secrets? Because Bobby is now the key to unlocking immortality? Sure!

Is it unhinged? Yes.

Is it more believable than him clawing out of a coffin in the middle of his funeral or Buck still somewhere doing yoga in his coma dream? Also yes.

Anyway. That’s where I’m at mentally.

When a Ghost Band Haunts your Heart (In the Best Way)

Four years ago, Netflix dropped a little gem called Julie and the Phantoms—a vibrant, musical, shockingly emotional series about a girl, her grief, her music, and yes… her ghost band. It was one of those shows that seemed cute at first glance but had no business hitting as hard as it did. One minute you’re vibing with the songs, and the next, you’re crying over unfinished dreams and the way Luke looks at Julie like she hung the stars just for him.

Now, I thought I’d made peace with the cancellation. Thought I’d tucked this obsession away like an old diary under my bed. But recently, I saw someone new discover the show—and just like that, I was spiraling. I’m talking full-on “wake up, why don’t you put on a little makeup” spiral. The kind where you rewatch a scene for the fifth time in one night, where every lyric suddenly has more weight, where you start whispering unsolicited facts about the cast to your friends. It’s bad. It’s glorious.

Here’s the kicker: Julie and the Phantoms was canceled after just one season. Criminal. Unforgivable. But that one season? Pure magic. If you loved High School Musical, Camp Rock, or Glee at its most earnest—if you're into shows that give you butterflies and a good cry and a spontaneous urge to start a band—this is your next obsession. The songs slap. The cast chemistry? Off the charts. The emotional beats? Unexpectedly deep. And the comedy is so charming, it sneaks up on you and lives in your brain rent-free.

Whether you're in it for the found family, the "unfinished business" metaphors, the toe-tapping performances, or just to see a trio of ghost boys be wildly endearing, JATP delivers.

Writing isn’t easy—finding the right words, keeping the momentum, and sometimes just convincing yourself to start can be a challenge. And yet, fanfic writers do it anyway, pouring love into their stories, expanding worlds, and giving us all something to obsess over.

I’ve even tried writing myself, and let me tell you—it’s hard. I don’t know if I can keep it going, and now I completely understand why there are so many unfinished fics out there. It takes so much effort to see a story through to the end, and honestly? That makes me respect fic writers even more.

Fandom Trends: Why Slow Burns and Getting Together Tropes Always Have My Heart

Okay, let’s talk about something that gets me every single time—slow burns and the iconic “getting together” tropes. You know the ones where we have to watch our favorite characters go through every awkward moment, emotional hurdle, and quiet longing before they finally realize what’s been in front of them all along? It’s the buildup that gets me hooked, every time. There's just something so satisfying about watching the tension unfold, knowing that the payoff will be worth every heart-stopping second.

For me, the slow burn is the ultimate form of emotional foreplay. There's something about watching characters dance around their feelings, pretending they don't have chemistry, when we know they do. It's that tension that gets me every time. It’s like I’m on the edge of my seat, waiting for that one moment when everything clicks and they realize they can’t deny it anymore.

And the “getting together” trope? It’s pure magic. When that moment finally happens, it’s not just about the characters kissing or saying the words—it’s about all the buildup, the little moments of closeness, the unspoken glances, and the subtle touches. When it all comes together, it feels like I’ve been part of their journey the whole time. I live for that release, that moment when they’re finally on the same page.

Taking Buddie , for example, the slow burn between Buck and Eddie feels like a masterclass in tension. Every glance, every moment where their connection is hinted at but never fully addressed, only adds to the build-up. It’s not just about waiting for them to finally get together—it’s about watching them grow as individuals and as friends. The moments where they almost cross the line, but don’t quite, are what keep me hooked. It’s like the audience can feel the unspoken bond between them before the characters even admit it to themselves.

And the beauty of it is that their relationship isn't rushed. It’s something that evolves naturally over time, and that’s what makes it so compelling. The slow pace allows us to savor each moment and feel every step of their journey.

At the end of the day, it's these tropes that keep me coming back. The slow burn, the will-they-won’t-they, the tension, and the payoff—it’s like a rollercoaster of emotions, and I’m in it for the ride. Whether it’s in fanfic or the shows I love, there’s something so fulfilling about watching two characters slowly come together, knowing that every moment before their union counts. It’s not just about the happy ending; it’s about everything that leads up to it, every moment of longing, confusion, and realization. That’s why I’ll always have a soft spot for these tropes, and I’ll keep coming back for more, one slow burn at a time.

First of all, actors don’t control the writing. No matter how much fans want a ship to happen, the final decision rests with the writers, not the cast. Blaming RG for something that is completely out of his hands is not only unfair but also just plain wrong.

Secondly, the “bad acting” complaints? Out of context, exaggerated, and honestly, just an excuse to pile on negativity. If you’ve watched any of his scenes over the years, you know he’s delivered some incredibly strong performances—especially in emotional moments. If anything, he and Oliver both deserve credit for making Buck and Eddie’s relationship feel as real and layered as it does.

Fandom should be a space where we celebrate the things we love, not tear down actors because a ship hasn’t (yet) become canon. It’s fine to be frustrated, but directing that frustration at the wrong people isn’t it.

Fictional Perfection: The Fanworks That Live in My Head Rent-Free

Some people read books; I live in fanfiction. There’s something magical about the way fanworks breathe new life into familiar worlds, taking beloved characters and spinning them into entirely new stories—ones that sometimes surpass the source material itself.

Fanfiction holds a special place in my heart because it’s more than just storytelling; it’s a communal act of love. It’s people from different cultures, backgrounds, and perspectives coming together to reimagine, reinterpret, and expand upon canon. It’s the “what ifs,” the missing scenes, the alternate endings that somehow feel more right than what we got. It’s the comfort of returning to a world that’s constantly evolving through the creativity of its fans.

In my last post, I shared my absolute favorite works on Archive of Our Own (Ao3)—fics that have shaped my love for fandom and storytelling. But now, I want to dive deeper. What makes these stories stand out? Why do they live in my head rent-free? And most importantly, why should you read them too?

Let’s gush.

Of the Northmost Winds and Skies by xxiiyu

Why It’s That Good:

This was my very first Hijack fic, and it single-handedly pulled me into the fandom. Since then, I’ve devoured countless fics, but this one still stands out. The sheer depth and detail in the storytelling blew me away—how did someone essentially write an entire movie around a ship that canonically never existed? The worldbuilding is immersive, the characters feel incredibly real, and the pacing keeps you hooked from start to finish.

What makes this fic so great—especially as a starter fic—is that it isn’t solely focused on the romance. Instead, it allows you to fully experience the world, the adventure, and the growing dynamic between Jack and Hiccup. The ship develops naturally, making it all the more satisfying. If you’re new to Hijack, this is the perfect place to start. Although I will say, I'm still waiting (and probably will continue to wait) for a part 2.

Link: https://archiveofourown.org/works/18360494

There’s Always More by Alice_vs_Wonderland

Why It’s That Good:

I know alternate universe fics can be hit or miss for some, but trust me—this one is worth every second. And the best part? You don’t need to know anything about Harry Potter to enjoy it (I didn’t, and I was still hooked).

What really makes this fic shine is the depth of its characterizations and dynamics—not just between Jack and Hiccup, but the entire ensemble. I can say wholeheartedly that I’ve never been this invested in a group dynamic before. Every character feels alive, their relationships are layered, and the emotional beats hit hard.

This fic also introduced me to Rise of the Brave Tangled Dragons (RotBTD), and wow—what a gateway into an incredible crossover fandom. It’s a story that balances humor, heart, and heavier themes in a way that sticks with you long after you’ve finished reading. It’s been 3 weeks and I am STILL talking about it.

Link: https://archiveofourown.org/works/2680586

These fics didn’t just tell great stories—they created worlds I never want to leave. If you haven’t read them yet, I highly recommend checking them out. And if you have, I’d love to hear your thoughts! What are your favorite fics? Which ones live rent-free in your mind? Drop them in the comments—I’m always looking for my next obsession.