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The Universal Way of Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva
The Bodhisattva of Boundless Will arose from his seat, bared his right shoulder, turned towards the Buddha with joined palms and asked: “World Honored One, we yearn to know why the Bodhisattva Avalokitesvara, He Who Hears and Heeds the Sounds of the World, is titled thus?”
The Buddha replied to Boundless Will: “Virtuous Son! If a multitude of distressed sentient beings, ensnared in myriad sorrows, cry out with one heart the name of Avalokitesvara, the Bodhisattva will heed their cries and release them from suffering. If those who uphold Avalokitesvara’s name were thrown into a raging inferno, they would, by the astonishing power of the Bodhisattva, be immune from the flames. And if swept away by turbulent tides, they would reach the shallows. Likewise, whenever the many who cross the oceans in search of a fortune in gold, silver, red coral, pearls and precious stones find baneful winds forcing them into perilous or haunted waters, then the whole vessel may be steered to safety if just one among them chants the name of Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva. For these reasons, he is honored as He Who Hears and Heeds the Sounds of the World.”
“Furthermore, if soon to be victims of violence cry for Avalokitesvara, the attacking blades shall break and leave them uninjured. Should a mighty host of Yakshas and Rakshasas —vast enough to cover the universe— march forth to torment others, then these fearsome ghosts, upon encountering someone who holds the name of Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva, would be unable to even gaze at them with evil eyes, let alone do any harm. And all who are chained and fettered, whether guilty or not, will be freed and their restraints shattered upon invoking the name of Avalokitesvara. Moreover, say a merchant caravan laden with wealth and goods is about to pass through a perilous path surrounded by hoards of marauders—men with hearts hardened by hatred and grievances. If at that time one of the merchants addressed his peers: ‘My good fellows, be not afraid, for let us all chant with one heart the name of Avalokitesvara, the one who bestows fearlessness, and be thus freed from these marauders,’ then the merchants, upon chanting ‘Homage to Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva,’ will be released from all danger and be able to see their goods to safety.”
“Boundless Will, the divine powers of Avalokitesvara Mahabodhisattva are ever so glorious. If beings stricken with lust or malice or ignorance often recall the Bodhisattva and cherish his name, they will see their vices recede. Boundless Will, Avalokitesvara possesses such bountiful and penetrating spiritual powers, thus, all beings must keep his name close to their hearts. If a woman wishing for a son prays and makes offerings to Avalokitesvara, she will have a son replete with fortune and wisdom. If she prays for a daughter, she will be blessed with a virtuous daughter of graceful countenance, honored by all. Boundless Will! Avalokitesvara has such awe inspiring powers, sentient beings who reverently pray to him will have not done so in vain, and shall receive endless good fortune. This is why all must receive and keep the name of Avalokitesvara.”
“Boundless Will, say someone faithfully upholds the names of Bodhisattvas as numerous as sand grains in sixty two hundred million Ganges Rivers, and offered bed linens, robes, alms food and medicines to each and every one of them for a lifetime, would not the merit of such a virtuous man or woman be great?”
“Certainly, World Honored One,” was the reply from Boundless Will.
The Buddha continued: “On the other hand, if someone else who holds only the name of Avalokitesvara bows and makes offerings but once to him, the merit and blessings attained will be equal to that of the previous person, and shall last for all time. Boundless Will! The blessings reaped from keeping the name of Avalokitesvara are unlimited and unending.”
The Bodhisattva of Boundless Will then asked the Buddha: “World Honored One, how does Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva tour the Saha world and minister to the masses? What is his way of preaching?”
The Buddha replied: “Virtuous Son, if the inhabitants of a land must meet a Buddha to be liberated, Avalokitesvara will appear in the form of a Buddha and minister to them. He will manifest as a Paccekabuddha to those who have such affinities, and as an Arhat to those who seek one. If people are to be liberated by the Great Brahma King, he will appear as one and preach the Dharma, and if an audience requires the form of the Heavenly Father, he will appear as the Heavenly Father. If beings need to be ministered to by a deva from the Heaven of the Unburdened, he will appear as one, and likewise manifest as a deva from the Greater Heaven of the Unburdened when required. If the need to appear as a Celestial Marshal arises, he will do so and preach in that form. If the form of the Celestial King Kubera is sought for, he will oblige. The same is true for the forms of princes, elders, householders, magistrates, brahmins, monks, nuns, lay devotees, consorts, matrons, youthful sons or pure maidens. He will furthermore appear as any god, dragon, yaksha, gandharva, asura, garuda, kinnara, mahoraga, human or nonhuman. And for those destined to be liberated by a Vajra God, he will manifest accordingly and preach the Dharma to them as a Vajra God.”
“Boundless Will! These are the meritorious deeds of Avalokitesvara, he graces all the lands in myriad different bodies and liberates all. So fail not to single-mindedly make offerings to Avalokitesvara, for it is this Mahabodhisattva who bestows fearlessness in moments of peril. He is known across the Saha world as the one who dispels all dangers and disasters.”
The Bodhisattva of Boundless Will declared: “ World Honored One, I shall now make an offering to Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva.” As he removed his bejeweled Livery Collar—a treasure equal to a thousand gold staters— and presented it before Avalokitesvara, he said, “O Humane One, please receive this pious offering of pearls and jewels.” Being ever humble, the Bodhisattva declined the gift. In response, the Bodhisattva of Boundless Will beseeched again, “Humane One, please accept this offering out of pity for me!”
At that moment, the Buddha said to Avalokitesvara: “You must accept this pious offering out of compassion for Boundless Will, the four assemblies, and for the gods, dragons, yakshas, gandharvas, asuras, garudas, kinnaras, mahoragas, humans and nonhumans.” Thus, out of compassion for them all, Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva accepted the gift, halved it, and offered a portion each to the Buddha and the Myriad Jeweled Stupa. “Boundless Will! Such is the supreme spiritual power of Avalokitesvara, he who is ever present across the entire Saha World.”
The Bodhisattva of Boundless Will then asked in verse:
“O World Honored One of wondrous countenance,
I now seek once more the origins of this Heir of Buddha,
The One Who Hears And Heeds the Sounds of the World!”
And so, The Eminent One of Excellent Features replied
To Boundless Will in mellifluous verse: “Hear the Ways of
Avalokitesvara, he who manifests in myriad places,
Has resolve deeper than oceans, he who has waited upon
Countless Buddhas over endless eons, and kept the
Great Vows of Purity. I shall now tell of the miracles
Granted to those who hear his name, see his person,
Those who hold his name close to their hearts,
For their many sorrows shall all wither into dust!
Say the murderous plot to push you into a fiery pit,
Abide in Avalokitesvara and the fiery pit will turn into
A delightful pond. Or if you are cast adrift in a mighty
Sea, surrounded by hydras, sea-nymphs and devil whales,
Abide in Avalokitesvara and the shallows shall appear.
If you are pushed off Mount Meru, abide in Avalokitesvara
And you will float in the void like the Sun. Suppose you are
Pursued by hounds to the edge of the Vajra Cliff, abide in
Avalokitesvara and see not one hair harmed. Or if you
Are trapped by extortionists, armed and ready to do harm,
Abide in Avalokitesvara and see forgiveness and mercy
Swell in their hearts. Or if you are ensnared in the laws of
Magistrates and sent to the guillotine, abide in Avalokitesvara
And the blade shall break into pieces; if chained and fettered,
Then the restraints shall be shattered and liberty regained.
If you are victim of the dark arts, of curses and vexes,
Abide in Avalokitesvara and the malice shall backfire
Onto the culprit. And should you meet fearsome
Rakshasas, venomous basilisks and other ghosts, abide in
Avalokitesvara and none would dare haunt you. Or if
You are circled by ferocious beasts, teeth and claws
Long and sharp, abide in Avalokitesvara and see them scatter
Away in every direction. Cobras and scorpions, toxic vapors
And thick smoke, all dissipate when the name
Of Avalokitesvara resounds in the air. And so too
Ominous clouds, striking lightning, hail and rainstorms—
Fading before the powers of Avalokitesvara. The multitude
Of sentient beings, ensnared in myriad sorrows, shall find
Release in the wondrous wisdom of Avalokitesvara, which
Can alleviate all worldly pains and anxieties. Replete with
Divine powers, and forever perfecting his wisdom and ease,
He manifests in all the lands across the ten quarters.
The manifold states of woe, the hells, ghost realms and
Beastly domains, the suffering of birth, old age, illness, and
Death shall all recede. Heeding purity and truth, heeding the
Vast body of wisdom, heeding benevolence and compassion,
May all forever admire him with resolve and praise.
Radiance pure and unblemished, like sagacious solar rays
Dispelling the darkness, able to tame all disasters from wind to
Fire, and illume without bounds the whole universe. He is
The body of benevolence, with thundering virtue, pouring forth
The ambrosia of truth to extinguish the embers of anguish.
If you are mired in prosecutions or caught in the throes of
Battle, abide in Avalokitesvara and all enmity shall vanish.
The wondrous sounds of Avalokitesvara, so pure like
Serene waves, peerless in this world, who could afford
Not to keep his name? Cherishing each chant with true faith,
The pure and sagely Avalokitesvara is your rock in times of
Pain and peril. Replete with merit and eyes of benevolence,
Blessings boundless like the ocean, worthy of reverence!”
In the end, the Bodhisattva Who Shouldered the Earth rose and proclaimed before the Buddha: “O World Honored One, anyone able to hear this sermon on the boundless deeds of Avalokitesvara and his universal works of mercy surely has an abundance of merit.” And as the Buddha spoke this Sutra, the myriad beings in the congregation before Him vowed for Unsurpassed Bodhi.
Namo Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva!
Namo Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva!
Namo Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva!
Namo Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva!
Namo Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva!
Namo Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva!
Namo Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva!
Namo Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva!
Namo Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva!
Homage to the Greatly Compassionate, Greatly Benevolent, Avalokitesvara Mahabodhisattva!
Source:
https://avalokitesvarashrine.quora.com/The-Universal-Way-of-Avalokitesvara-Bodhisattva-A-Public-Domain-Translation-of-Chapter-25-of-the-Lotus-Sutra

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You can find the original blog post, complete with all the shiny covers, here.
If you would like to be kept up to date with the upcoming lists, please subscribe to my newsletter by clicking this link. I don’t send out letters too often, pretty much once a month when this list goes out… and occasionally if I release a book or something.
As always, this is not a comprehensive list, but only includes all the books I have heard about so far.
If you have a fantasy novel you are self publishing in June or beyond, let me know by filling out THIS FORM, and I shall add it to the page. There are but 3 requirements:
1) It must be a self published fantasy novel.
2) It must have a Goodreads page.
3) It must have a cover.
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1st June – The Pyres of Vengeance (Swords of Dominion #2) by N.C. Koussis

Epic Fantasy, Grimdark
After losing everything she knew, Selene struggles to keep hope alive. Terrifying threats from the capital test her in ways she never thought possible.
Richter can’t destroy himself or the corruption that lives in his body. He won’t let anything stop him from his mission, though – to kill every other werewolf on the Continent.
The Order of the Golden Sword cares not for the laws of men. They’ll do anything to wipe the lycanthrope haven of Palerme from existence. But no one has ever faced an army of werewolves before.
Goodreads
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1st June – Tristan’s Regret (The Return of King Arthur #3) by Jacob Sannox

Urban Fantasy, Sword & Sorcery, Historical Fantasy
In the 5th century, Tristan and Isolde are at the mercy of the scheming Morgana Le Fay, who seeks to undermine King Arthur’s alliance with Cornwall. The consequences of their actions echo down the centuries and, in 2021, Arthur, Tristan and the Knights of the Round Table desperately hunt the last remaining followers of Malagant, an immortal ally of the dead sorceress. Will Arthur finally live up to his own legend, and can anything put an end to Tristan’s regret?
Goodreads
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1st June – The Exile of Zanzibar (Railroad to Zanzibar #1) by Daniel Maidman

Epic Fantasy, Historical Fantasy
Claire built a device to fold space and time. It had a flaw…
When the smoke clears, she finds herself halfway across the world, thousands of years in the past, and no device in sight.
In bronze-age Florence, war has lasted for generations. All Claire wants to do is get home, but she’ll need help from the locals. She wins an ally in Marcus Diophantus, a pickpocket turned soldier turned general, who hopes to turn into something more than just her champion. Together, they broker peace between Florence and its enemy.
If Marcus is going to help Claire, he’ll have to survive. Peace has upset the balance of power in the capital city. The king stands increasingly alone against: the Constantines, a commercial enterprise as much as a clan, who aim to profit from peace as they have from war – the warrior nobles, descended from the founders of Florence and quick to turn against a weak throne – and Reburrus, the high priest of Florence, convinced Claire answers to hostile foreign gods. As the city comes to a boil, Claire and Marcus – and Marcus’s formidable army – will have to decide where their allegiance lies.
Claire becomes a reluctant participant in a savage campaign. While Marcus leads the battles, she tries to gain control of the unimaginably powerful Ctesiphôn – a ghost tower in the heart of Florence, shrouded in magic and myth.
Goodreads
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1st June – Captain (All that Glitters #2) by Shalaena Medford

Grimdark, Gaslamp
Mere weeks have passed since Tsingsei “Song” Gould’s world fell into ashes. Now she must accept her role as captain of the Stars’ Bounty.
The crew returns to the skies to do what they do best: piracy. They travel the world, visiting new countries and finding an adventure wherever they go. In the frigid south, Song finds there are answers to her questions about kijæm…with a caveat. In the trading country, she gains confidence in her notoriety. In the exotic west, she makes a terrible mistake.
However, one of Song’s dearest friends has become a wanted man, and they must find a way to free him of the price on his head. Will she commit the highest crime in the world, or will she lose him to the gallows?
Goodreads
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1st June – Buzzard’s Bowl (Tragedy of Cedain #2) by John Palladino

Epic Fantasy, Grimdark
Cedain continues to collapse.
Ashmount’s destruction shatters the Magicai while the culprits responsible continue sabotaging the world. All the while, the next season of Buzzard’s Bowl begins and Edelbrock, in his constant fight for survival, desires a vengeance he can only find in the arena.
Seradal and Villic find themselves in the middle of a war between Remeria and the Camel Clans, and may end up on opposing sides, while the threat of Calrym looms over all of them.
At the behest of the woman he loves, Demri finds himself thrown into the Elkavich, a not-so-secret order of Magicai who are intent upon fixing the world.
Ashen, a former urchin rescued by a noble with selfish aspirations, works to dismantle the nobility of Calrym.
Death is assured to all who walk the world, the only unknown is when they will perish.
Goodreads
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1st June – On Winds of Ruin (The Deimachy #2) by Lincoln Law

A friendship betrayed. An unfamiliar land. The winds of ruin blow.
Roisin is still reeling from events at the end of A Crown of Blood. She feels lost, broken and alone in the world. Torn with what to do next, Roisin chooses to make the fateful trip across the Skybinder border into enemy territory in the hopes of gaining new allies for the fight against the Soulmongers. At her side is her fox companion, Vulpo; the last of the Bloodsingers, Mei; and a Skybinder of questionable allegiance named Giack.
However, Roisin’s actions draw the attention of the Skybinder nobility, entrapping her into political machinations with deadly outcomes.
Piritta, newly reborn Soulmonger, is tasked with the search for the final member of the Soulmonger Triumvirate to lead the army to victory.
And Kaori, leader of the Soulmongers, is given her own task, granting her more power than she could have ever imagined.
The choices these young women must make will tear them apart, fracture them all, leaving cracks for something darker to seep in. And in the end, only the one with the strongest resolve will endure.
Goodreads
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1st June – The Nameless Restaurant by Tao Wong

Urban Fantasy, Cozy Fantasy
There is a restaurant in Toronto. Its entrance is announced only by a simple, unadorned wooden door, varnished to a beautiful shine but without paint, hidden beside dumpsters and a fire escape. There is no sign, no indication of what lies behind the door. If you do manage to find the restaurant, the décor is dated and worn. Homey, if one were to be generous. The service is atrocious, the proprietor a grouch. The regulars are silent, brooding, and unfriendly to newcomers. There is no set menu, alternating with the whim and whimsy of the owner. The selection of wine and beer is sparse or non-existent at times, and the prices for everything outrageous. There is a restaurant in Toronto that is magically hidden, whose service is horrible, but whose food is divine. This is the story of the Nameless Restaurant.
Goodreads
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4th June – Gold, Lock and Key (Grimdark Fairytales #1) by E.J. Doble

Grimdark
“All it needs, is a bit of tenacity… and three little bears.”
Goldie, an outlaw and contract hunter of the Baron’s State, accepts a new assignment from her employer to find an old cabin in the woods, home to three ‘shapeshifters’ who can morph into bears. Considered to be little more than a myth, Goldie assumes at first that the shapeshifters are an exaggeration – but with the sizeable bounty her employer is offering, she soon realises there may be more truth in it than she realised.
And that isn’t the only thing on her mind: she discovers her main rival – a manipulative and incredibly cunning trapper named Southey – has also taken on the contract, and will be contending for the same bounty she so fervently desires. Having waited many long years to have her revenge and outsmart Southey for past mistakes, Goldie sees the new contract as a perfect opportunity to do so. All she has to do is play her cards just right.
And kill three bears…
Goodreads
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4th June – Waybound (Cradle #12) by Will Wight

Progression/Cultivation, Epic Fantasy
Years ago, Lindon left his home as a powerless Unsouled. Now, he goes to war with the most powerful beings in the world over the future of Cradle itself.
The Weeping Dragon has a grudge to settle, and Lindon intends to take out the Dreadgod with his friends by his side. But rival Monarchs know his plans, and they won’t let things end so easily.
If Lindon does win, he will ascend to the heavens. But he may not find a safe haven there either.
In the worlds above, Suriel and Ozriel face off against the Mad King to determine the new shape of the cosmos. The victor will decide the fate of countless universes.
Whether he wins or dies, Lindon will soon leave this life behind.
Goodreads
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6th June – Champions of Light (The Light Series #1) by Althea Damgaard

Epic Fantasy
Rhoanda runs away when her father betrays her trust by arranging her marriage without telling her. She had freedom to be herself, unlike her sisters, but in the end, she should have expected this. Winter still hangs on in the mountains, unlike the beach she left, and it could be another month until the pass to the west opens. Her funds run out and the city guard catches her stealing. Instead of a cell, they take her to the Cathedral of Light, which rivals a fortress. There she learns the truth about the Light while trying to hide who she really is. Her parents, who embrace the Dark, have the power to take over the mountain kingdom and could use her as the excuse to do so.
Sergeant Vern can’t shake his desire to drink nor his anger at the Lord of Light for the disease that crippled and killed his sister at a young age. The cathedral lets him work with the class of deviants under his alias, but time is running out. The worse spring thaw of the century arrives and despite the great Cathedral of Light, the Dark has found a deep root in the kingdom. Worse, prophecies of the spiritual war manifesting in the physical come true as a mural changes before their eyes and its images step into their lives. Vern needs to accept the truth that sets him free of the curse cast upon his family so he can step into his true role. A truth that his sister professed about the Light through all her pain unto her last breath when angels took her home.
Will their faith in the Light be enough to overcome their trials and save a kingdom?
Goodreads
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6th June – imPerfect Curse (The imPerfect Cathar #2) by C.N. Rowan

Urban Fantasy
I’m exhausted. Done in. Needing a stiff drink and about a week’s sleep. But that’s not going to happen.
Because Franc is dying, struck by a curse placed on him by the Sistren Of Bordeaux, one of the most powerful groups of Talented in France. And because of our deal, it’s on me to find out what the hell is going on, and how Franc has offended the Sistren. Apart from by simply existing, of course.
Except a simple trip to Bordeaux turns into a living nightmare as the past comes back to not just haunt me but to kick me square in the nuts, and I’m sent to the one place no Talented ever wants to go. Where those with magic either vanish or get ruined, left as nothing but empty husks.
This time, it might not be the world at risk.
It might be my very soul.
Goodreads
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6th June – Lira by Armanis Ar-Feinial

Grimdark, Horror
Lira is an innocent little girl, struggling to survive in a cruel, heartless world. As her father dies, she is left to fend for herself. Each day is a desperate and exhausting search for food, scouring through the Abyss, the only home she knows. Acute awareness does not always protect her from the very real risk of cannibalization or worse– being abducted. This is a horrifying reality that no child should have to face in a brutally poetic tale
Goodreads
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6th June – Girl Squad Volition (Volta Academy Chronicles #2) by Maya Lin Wang

Progression/Cultivation, YA
Magical girls, mystery, and martial arts!
After transforming for the first time, Wren starts class at Aurin Academy, a floating school where students from across the dimensions train to defend the sovereign planets of the Kiloverse from the Cosmic horrors beyond.
From learning to fly, to discovering her magical aptitude, to dealing with a trident-wielding water Volta who inexplicably wants her dead, to navigating the fraught politics of her first mission with the squad, Wren has her work cut out for her!
Goodreads
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13th June – Fat Witch Summer – Lizzy Ives

YA, Cozy Fantasy
Dumplin’ meets The Craft in this body-positive fantasy novel for fans of summer road trips, female friendship, and magic.
Sixteen-year-old Thrash doesn’t enchant eyeliner over her lids or clear her acne with magic. She is plus-size, but she doesn’t hate what she sees in the mirror—that’s the realm of her mother, Osmarra, a slim and elegant Glamour witch. When Thrash unexpectedly breaks a mirror with her mind, she discovers she has a knack for magic and will receive one of the three sanctioned Gifts: Glamour, Growth, or Sight. The only problem is that mothers choose the Gifts, and Osmarra is convinced that the Gift of Glamour will fix her daughter’s looks.
When Thrash fails to persuade Osmarra to accept her as she is, a trio of cool witches who call themselves The Lunes offer her an out. Their leader, fiery and charismatic Cresca, recruits Thrash for a road trip to New Salem University, where the girls plan to steal their own Gifts. As Thrash crosses the magical Thirteen States of America, Osmarra hot on her heels, she discovers bewitched diners, haunted tourist traps, and a secret about the Gifts that will change the Thirteen States forever.
Goodreads
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16th June – When the Stars Alight (The Essence of the Equinox #1) by Camilla Andrew

Gaslamp
A maiden of the stars. A monster from the shadows. A collision that rewrites their worlds.
Princess Laila Rose is a fallen star in human form. A beloved guardian to humanity. Yet in spite of these fantastical origins, she has never much believed in prophecies. That’s why when a demon of apocalyptic legend is presented to her in a block of ice, she feels fascination rather than fright.
Curiosity kindles into mutual desire once he breaks free of his captivity. Far from the rampaging beast of mass destruction everyone expects—he is monstrously handsome, deviously articulate and alluringly mysterious, a prince among his kind. Eager to discover his origins, Laila travels from her idyllic seaside realm into a land of unspeakable horrors, relying on her wits to survive her journey. She arrives aiming to establish peaceful contact with the aid of the besotted prince.
However, it becomes clear that the heartless demon king does not desire peace at all, only war and conquest. When diplomacy fails, Laila turns to the king’s suave and manipulative bastard son in the hopes that she can inspire both him and his trueborn brother to go against their father. But soon it is her heart she must keep from being torn between their centuries-old dangerous rivalry.
Goodreads
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16th June – The Orb and the Airship (Turrim Archive #1) by Jenelle Leanne Schmidt

Steampunk, Cozy Fantasy
A rogue airship captain. An ambitious youth. A clash of powers beyond their imagination.
With scholarships to a prestigious military school, Grayden and Wynn are thirsty for adventure. But the night before they leave, they discover the mysterious Dalmir and his arcane orb in the forsaken tower outside of town. The old man, who seems to have a wealth of knowledge of what came before and yet so little of the now, insists on accompanying them as they travel to the academy.
Meanwhile, all pirate Captain Marik wants is to keep to the skies, take his due, and care for his crew. Then a straightforward pillaging mission on a ship of fresh academy students leads to betrayal from one of his own and an unlikely friendship forged by necessity.
Yet this new alliance stirs up ancient foes and a conflict too terrible to ignore. Despite Grayden’s inexperience and Marik’s skepticism, working together with Dalmir is their only option.
The fate of the world depends on it.
Goodreads

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17th June – Molten Flux (Flux Catastrophe #1) by Jonathan Weiss

Epic Fantasy, Sci-Fantasy
As the freshest conscript aboard the walking fortress of Revance, Ryza forges a name for himself in battle. The enemy are the smelters, bandits that trade in reanimated corpses. But for Ryza, the bloodshed represents a path of redemption for an upbringing he’s just escaped.
His prowess with a rifle draws the interest of the Locusts, a clandestine faction within Revance’s ranks. It turns out that not all aboard the fortress seek to stamp out the plague of molten flux, the mysterious liquid metal that fills the bodies of the dead and makes them walk again.
Some seek to profit.
The reanimated corpses —known as autominds— are used to control enormous contraptions of magnetically enchanted metal, forming the backbone of The Droughtland’s factories. The only thing stopping the smelters from expanding their illicit industry is Revance.
The Locusts make Ryza an offer. Either help overthrow Revance to do the smelter’s bidding or reveal his father’s legacy as the very thing Ryza now fights against.
The former is unthinkable. The latter means death.
Ryza resolves to infiltrate them and expose the mutiny, plunging him back into the murky underworld of the smelters, testing his convictions, and even leading him to the ancient origins of molten flux itself.
Goodreads-
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18th June – Enchanted Flames ANTHOLOGY (Enchanted Anthologies #3) by Various Authors

YA
If you play with fire, you might get burned…
Dig into this magical collection of short stories and discover among the embers ten fiery fantasy tales to set your heart ablaze.
Sneak past the ancient dragon as you steal from his hoard of gold and escape with the crown jewels. Journey deep into the Salamander Kingdom and follow the wyverns as they help the woodwitch to find the cure. Walk over earth scorched by a post-apocalyptic sun on a quest for survival, and find out why the firebird only eats golden apples. Watch the phoenix rise from the ashes and root for the golden dragon to woo his demigoddess in the Magic Kingdom.
Goodreads

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20th June – Guild of Magic (NYC Questing Guild) by Jon Auerbach

Urban Fantasy
Joining the Guild was only the beginning. Now Jen’s next quest could spell life or death.
Jen Jacobs thought she was in over her head when she first discovered the secret Quest Board and the world of alchemy and magic hiding just out of sight in New York City. But after a ghost from her mentor Beatrice Taylor’s past nearly kills the two of them, Jen finds herself on the cusp of joining the fabled Guild. Except now Beatrice has gone missing, leaving Jen alone to face the shadowy organization and its 11 members by herself.
If that wasn’t enough, the Guild’s chairman forces Jen to complete yet another dangerous quest to prove that she belongs: stealing a long-lost vial of Dragon’s blood that is the key ingredient to recreating the legendary Philosopher’s Stone.
As Jen’s past mistakes begin to catch up with her, she’ll need to muster all of her ingenuity to survive in the cutthroat world of ancient Relics, magical dynasties, and a possible immortal secretly directing things from behind the scenes.
Goodreads
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21st June – Hierachy of the Unseen by B. Pigeon & Fell A. Marsh

Epic Fantasy
Demons and humans are locked in endless struggle.
This is an intrinsic fact of nature. The demons believe their salvation lies in bleeding humanity of the life-force called light, while the humans are equally determined to defend it.
Within the sprawling empire of Lu-nevet, the two sides have settled into an uneasy peace, employing less violent tactics. But this peace can only hold for so long.
The state religion of Lukeira sends devout demon hunter Mitzli deep into the borderlands to bless the victims of demonic pranks. Once they arrive, however, they find unexpected signs of violence. They team up with irreligious hunter Veleiry to investigate—and the destruction the two uncover is an ominous sign of what’s to come.
Meanwhile, shiftless demon Kor falls under the scrutiny of his vampiric commander, Mant—meaning he must actually do the work of tormenting humans, rather than taking credit from his now-ex-partner Yez. Slowly, he begins to realize that the demons’ strategy is shifting, and may be heading down a path he cannot follow.
Mitzli and Kor will have to betray their respective factions if they want to put an end to the violence before it escalates. But the two of them, both outcasts among their own kind, are the only ones who know the truth. How can they protect the world if no one will listen?
Goodreads
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27th June – Temper the Dark by L. Ryan Storms

Epic Fantasy, YA
Servant girl Alaris Kahlanik finds out about her family’s gift the hard way when she discovers her ability to dreamwalk after being condemned to the Cells. With thoughts of escape, she uses her newfound ability to spy on the emperor and his secret search for something important. Nothing the emperor wants could possibly be good for the people he rules, and so whatever the emperor is looking for, Alaris must find first.
Throlani Guardsman Kagan Liis has served the Empire since Emperor Patuk’s reign began eight years ago. He can also communicate with a vicious oracle referred to only as the Darkness. When the Darkness tasks Kagan with investigating the Servant girl in the Cells, Kagan takes on a special mission that will require more than his usual interrogation methods of brute strength and intimidation.
From vastly different echelons of the same tribal society, Alaris and Kagan are surprised to learn they share one important goal—ensuring the best for the people of their island nation. Alaris discovers what the emperor is looking for — a dragon! But warning a senile dragon against impending danger is no easy task. Together, Alaris and Kagan must save a forgetful dragon and a divided nation…which may mean giving up any hope of saving themselves.
Goodreads
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30th June – Quin of Light (The Quins of Sarcaren #1) by Mark Parker

Epic Fantasy, YA
The quins of Sarcaren have awoken. . .
Auri. Gifted with power over lightning that fascinates and frightens her in equal measure, power she must bring to the fore when horror strikes her people.
Torren and Aaran. Twins with growing mastery over the physical and the mental. A potent mix of brains and brawn, both vying for the approval of the kingdom’s greatest warrior.
Koshi. Beset with sickness caused by the fire that threatens to burn her from the inside.
And Caetan. The youngest prince of Sarcaren who bends water to his desire but whose will and words are shackled by a devastating sorceress.
Alone, they pose little threat. Separated at birth – mere pawns to be used by the city of Sarcaren as an unknown enemy rumbles in the north. Alone, they are mere children caught in a dangerous and confusing world of betrayal and fear.
Together, they are bound by a curse that will one day kill them all.
Together, they will devastate kingdoms.
Goodreads
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Space for more...

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Avalokitesvara photo from source, I recognise it as from Taipei Longshan temple

The Universal Way of Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva
The Bodhisattva of Boundless Will arose from his seat, bared his right shoulder, turned towards the Buddha with joined palms and asked: “World Honored One, we yearn to know why the Bodhisattva Avalokitesvara, He Who Hears and Heeds the Sounds of the World, is titled thus?”
The Buddha replied to Boundless Will: “Virtuous Son! If a multitude of distressed sentient beings, ensnared in myriad sorrows, cry out with one heart the name of Avalokitesvara, the Bodhisattva will heed their cries and release them from suffering. If those who uphold Avalokitesvara’s name were thrown into a raging inferno, they would, by the astonishing power of the Bodhisattva, be immune from the flames. And if swept away by turbulent tides, they would reach the shallows. Likewise, whenever the many who cross the oceans in search of a fortune in gold, silver, red coral, pearls and precious stones find baneful winds forcing them into perilous or haunted waters, then the whole vessel may be steered to safety if just one among them chants the name of Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva. For these reasons, he is honored as He Who Hears and Heeds the Sounds of the World.”
“Furthermore, if soon to be victims of violence cry for Avalokitesvara, the attacking blades shall break and leave them uninjured. Should a mighty host of Yakshas and Rakshasas —vast enough to cover the universe— march forth to torment others, then these fearsome ghosts, upon encountering someone who holds the name of Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva, would be unable to even gaze at them with evil eyes, let alone do any harm. And all who are chained and fettered, whether guilty or not, will be freed and their restraints shattered upon invoking the name of Avalokitesvara. Moreover, say a merchant caravan laden with wealth and goods is about to pass through a perilous path surrounded by hoards of marauders—men with hearts hardened by hatred and grievances. If at that time one of the merchants addressed his peers: ‘My good fellows, be not afraid, for let us all chant with one heart the name of Avalokitesvara, the one who bestows fearlessness, and be thus freed from these marauders,’ then the merchants, upon chanting ‘Homage to Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva,’ will be released from all danger and be able to see their goods to safety.”
“Boundless Will, the divine powers of Avalokitesvara Mahabodhisattva are ever so glorious. If beings stricken with lust or malice or ignorance often recall the Bodhisattva and cherish his name, they will see their vices recede. Boundless Will, Avalokitesvara possesses such bountiful and penetrating spiritual powers, thus, all beings must keep his name close to their hearts. If a woman wishing for a son prays and makes offerings to Avalokitesvara, she will have a son replete with fortune and wisdom. If she prays for a daughter, she will be blessed with a virtuous daughter of graceful countenance, honored by all. Boundless Will! Avalokitesvara has such awe inspiring powers, sentient beings who reverently pray to him will have not done so in vain, and shall receive endless good fortune. This is why all must receive and keep the name of Avalokitesvara.”
“Boundless Will, say someone faithfully upholds the names of Bodhisattvas as numerous as sand grains in sixty two hundred million Ganges Rivers, and offered bed linens, robes, alms food and medicines to each and every one of them for a lifetime, would not the merit of such a virtuous man or woman be great?”
“Certainly, World Honored One,” was the reply from Boundless Will.
The Buddha continued: “On the other hand, if someone else who holds only the name of Avalokitesvara bows and makes offerings but once to him, the merit and blessings attained will be equal to that of the previous person, and shall last for all time. Boundless Will! The blessings reaped from keeping the name of Avalokitesvara are unlimited and unending.”
The Bodhisattva of Boundless Will then asked the Buddha: “World Honored One, how does Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva tour the Saha world and minister to the masses? What is his way of preaching?”
The Buddha replied: “Virtuous Son, if the inhabitants of a land must meet a Buddha to be liberated, Avalokitesvara will appear in the form of a Buddha and minister to them. He will manifest as a Paccekabuddha to those who have such affinities, and as an Arhat to those who seek one. If people are to be liberated by the Great Brahma King, he will appear as one and preach the Dharma, and if an audience requires the form of the Heavenly Father, he will appear as the Heavenly Father. If beings need to be ministered to by a deva from the Heaven of the Unburdened, he will appear as one, and likewise manifest as a deva from the Greater Heaven of the Unburdened when required. If the need to appear as a Celestial Marshal arises, he will do so and preach in that form. If the form of the Celestial King Kubera is sought for, he will oblige. The same is true for the forms of princes, elders, householders, magistrates, brahmins, monks, nuns, lay devotees, consorts, matrons, youthful sons or pure maidens. He will furthermore appear as any god, dragon, yaksha, gandharva, asura, garuda, kinnara, mahoraga, human or nonhuman. And for those destined to be liberated by a Vajra God, he will manifest accordingly and preach the Dharma to them as a Vajra God.”
“Boundless Will! These are the meritorious deeds of Avalokitesvara, he graces all the lands in myriad different bodies and liberates all. So fail not to single-mindedly make offerings to Avalokitesvara, for it is this Mahabodhisattva who bestows fearlessness in moments of peril. He is known across the Saha world as the one who dispels all dangers and disasters.”
The Bodhisattva of Boundless Will declared: “ World Honored One, I shall now make an offering to Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva.” As he removed his bejeweled Livery Collar—a treasure equal to a thousand gold staters— and presented it before Avalokitesvara, he said, “O Humane One, please receive this pious offering of pearls and jewels.” Being ever humble, the Bodhisattva declined the gift. In response, the Bodhisattva of Boundless Will beseeched again, “Humane One, please accept this offering out of pity for me!”
At that moment, the Buddha said to Avalokitesvara: “You must accept this pious offering out of compassion for Boundless Will, the four assemblies, and for the gods, dragons, yakshas, gandharvas, asuras, garudas, kinnaras, mahoragas, humans and nonhumans.” Thus, out of compassion for them all, Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva accepted the gift, halved it, and offered a portion each to the Buddha and the Myriad Jeweled Stupa. “Boundless Will! Such is the supreme spiritual power of Avalokitesvara, he who is ever present across the entire Saha World.”
The Bodhisattva of Boundless Will then asked in verse:
“O World Honored One of wondrous countenance,
I now seek once more the origins of this Heir of Buddha,
The One Who Hears And Heeds the Sounds of the World!”
And so, The Eminent One of Excellent Features replied
To Boundless Will in mellifluous verse: “Hear the Ways of
Avalokitesvara, he who manifests in myriad places,
Has resolve deeper than oceans, he who has waited upon
Countless Buddhas over endless eons, and kept the
Great Vows of Purity. I shall now tell of the miracles
Granted to those who hear his name, see his person,
Those who hold his name close to their hearts,
For their many sorrows shall all wither into dust!
Say the murderous plot to push you into a fiery pit,
Abide in Avalokitesvara and the fiery pit will turn into
A delightful pond. Or if you are cast adrift in a mighty
Sea, surrounded by hydras, sea-nymphs and devil whales,
Abide in Avalokitesvara and the shallows shall appear.
If you are pushed off Mount Meru, abide in Avalokitesvara
And you will float in the void like the Sun. Suppose you are
Pursued by hounds to the edge of the Vajra Cliff, abide in
Avalokitesvara and see not one hair harmed. Or if you
Are trapped by extortionists, armed and ready to do harm,
Abide in Avalokitesvara and see forgiveness and mercy
Swell in their hearts. Or if you are ensnared in the laws of
Magistrates and sent to the guillotine, abide in Avalokitesvara
And the blade shall break into pieces; if chained and fettered,
Then the restraints shall be shattered and liberty regained.
If you are victim of the dark arts, of curses and vexes,
Abide in Avalokitesvara and the malice shall backfire
Onto the culprit. And should you meet fearsome
Rakshasas, venomous basilisks and other ghosts, abide in
Avalokitesvara and none would dare haunt you. Or if
You are circled by ferocious beasts, teeth and claws
Long and sharp, abide in Avalokitesvara and see them scatter
Away in every direction. Cobras and scorpions, toxic vapors
And thick smoke, all dissipate when the name
Of Avalokitesvara resounds in the air. And so too
Ominous clouds, striking lightning, hail and rainstorms—
Fading before the powers of Avalokitesvara. The multitude
Of sentient beings, ensnared in myriad sorrows, shall find
Release in the wondrous wisdom of Avalokitesvara, which
Can alleviate all worldly pains and anxieties. Replete with
Divine powers, and forever perfecting his wisdom and ease,
He manifests in all the lands across the ten quarters.
The manifold states of woe, the hells, ghost realms and
Beastly domains, the suffering of birth, old age, illness, and
Death shall all recede. Heeding purity and truth, heeding the
Vast body of wisdom, heeding benevolence and compassion,
May all forever admire him with resolve and praise.
Radiance pure and unblemished, like sagacious solar rays
Dispelling the darkness, able to tame all disasters from wind to
Fire, and illume without bounds the whole universe. He is
The body of benevolence, with thundering virtue, pouring forth
The ambrosia of truth to extinguish the embers of anguish.
If you are mired in prosecutions or caught in the throes of
Battle, abide in Avalokitesvara and all enmity shall vanish.
The wondrous sounds of Avalokitesvara, so pure like
Serene waves, peerless in this world, who could afford
Not to keep his name? Cherishing each chant with true faith,
The pure and sagely Avalokitesvara is your rock in times of
Pain and peril. Replete with merit and eyes of benevolence,
Blessings boundless like the ocean, worthy of reverence!”
In the end, the Bodhisattva Who Shouldered the Earth rose and proclaimed before the Buddha: “O World Honored One, anyone able to hear this sermon on the boundless deeds of Avalokitesvara and his universal works of mercy surely has an abundance of merit.” And as the Buddha spoke this Sutra, the myriad beings in the congregation before Him vowed for Unsurpassed Bodhi.
Namo Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva!
Namo Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva!
Namo Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva!
Namo Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva!
Namo Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva!
Namo Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva!
Namo Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva!
Namo Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva!
Namo Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva!
Homage to the Greatly Compassionate, Greatly Benevolent, Avalokitesvara Mahabodhisattva!

​
Source:
https://avalokitesvarashrine.quora.com
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these are my current rankings, top 5 changes every week and I tried to keep the S tier selective enough. Feel free to roast it in the comments, I def have some hot takes (cynical one being mid asf)

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A well-fitted suit is a timeless and essential wardrobe staple for any man. Whether you need it for a special occasion or your professional life, choosing the perfect men's suit requires careful consideration. With various styles, cuts, fabrics, and details available, it's important to know what to look for to ensure you make the right choice. In this ultimate guide, we will explore the key considerations that will help you find the perfect men's suit that fits both your style and body type.
1. Determine the Purpose:
Before diving into the specifics, consider the purpose of your suit. Are you looking for a suit for formal events like weddings or black-tie occasions? Or is it primarily for professional wear? Understanding the purpose will guide you in selecting the appropriate suit style, color, and fabric.
2. Suit Style:
a. Single-breasted vs. Double-breasted: Single-breasted suits are versatile and suitable for most occasions. They typically have one row of buttons and a notch lapel. Double-breasted suits have a more formal and structured look, with two parallel rows of buttons. They are ideal for formal events.
b. Suit Cut: The suit cut determines its overall silhouette. Three popular cuts include:

• Classic Fit: Offers a traditional and relaxed fit, suitable for men with larger body types or those who prefer a looser fit.
• Slim Fit: Provides a more modern and tailored look. It has a narrower waist and a closer fit to the body, creating a sleek appearance.
• Modern Fit: A balance between classic and slim fit, offering a contemporary look while maintaining some room for comfort.

3. Fabric Selection:
The fabric of your suit greatly affects its overall appearance, comfort, and durability. Common suit fabric options include:

• Wool: A classic choice, wool is breathable, durable, and has excellent draping qualities. It works well in both warm and cold climates.
• Cotton: Ideal for warmer climates, cotton suits are lightweight and breathable, but they may wrinkle more easily.
• Linen: Perfect for summer occasions, linen suits are lightweight and offer excellent breathability. However, they tend to wrinkle easily.
• Synthetic Blends: Fabrics like polyester or rayon blends offer durability and resistance to wrinkles, but they may not provide the same level of comfort as natural fibers.

4. Color and Pattern:
When choosing the color and pattern of your suit, consider your personal style and the occasion. Classic colors like navy, charcoal gray, and black are versatile and suitable for most occasions. Bolder colors, such as burgundy or royal blue, can make a statement but may be less versatile. Patterns like pinstripes or checks can add visual interest, but ensure they align with the formality of the event or setting.
5. Pay Attention to Fit:
The fit is arguably the most crucial aspect of a perfect men's suit. Pay attention to the following fit details:

• Shoulders: The shoulder seams should align with your natural shoulder line, without any sagging or overhang.
• Jacket Length: The jacket should cover your buttocks and the zipper of your pants, while still allowing freedom of movement.
• Sleeve Length: Ideally, the sleeves should end just above the base of your thumb, allowing around a half-inch of shirt cuff to show.
• Trouser Fit: The trousers should sit comfortably at your waist without sagging or feeling too tight. The hem should lightly touch the top of your shoes.
• Alterations: Remember, finding a suit that fits perfectly off the rack is rare. Budget for alterations to achieve a customized fit.

Conclusion:
Choosing the perfect men's suit involves careful consideration of various factors, including the suit style, fabric

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This post is based on our fun trip to this beautiful city. Don’t forget to like this post, subscribe to our channel, and enable notifications. And share your own experience or ask a question in the comments below. Sponsored by Beeyond compression packing cubes for travel. The link is in the description. And stick around until the end because we have a bonus attraction for you.
Top 10 things to do in Lisbon ⭐ Sponsored by BEEYOND packing cubes, a revolutionary new way to pack your luggage 🧳 🎒 👉 https://amzn.to/43uwwz0 👈 (on Amazon)
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Here are our top 10 picks:
Number 10: Belém Tower The Belem Tower, part of UNESCO World Heritage, is one of the most recognizable tourist attractions in Lisbon. Built in the 16th century, it was considered the gateway to the nation’s capital, strategically located at the mouth of the Tagus River. It was initially built as a fort to protect the city from incoming raids along the river. The tower is also a symbol of Europe’s Age of Discovery, also known as Age of Exploration, a period in the 15th and 16th century where some European nations, including Portugal, began exploring and conquering the world. Did you know that the tower once stood on an island, but the earthquake of 1755 shifted the river’s course, moving the island closer to land? Don’t skip nearby attractions including the statue celebrating the Portuguese Age of Discovery, and Waterfront Promenade Belém with a fantastic view towards the beautiful 25 de Abril bridge
Number 9: Old-style forms of public transportation In the late 18-hundreds and the beginning of 20th century, Lisbon came up with several ingenious transportation solutions to help locals and visitors tackle the city’s steep hills and enjoy its magnificent sights. Trams are a popular way to ger around the city, nowadays especially amongst tourists. These small nostalgic streetcars have been a part of Lisbon’s streets since 1901. Ride the renowned tram number 28 that passes through the old city and other famous parts of Lisbon. By the way, did you know that before 1901 trams ran as a horsecar line, but due to Lisbon’s steep slopes, the horses were eventually replaced by a more efficient cable-driven transport. Funiculars are another fun way to explore Lisbon. Ascensor do Lavra, city’s first funicular, was inaugurated in 1884. There are others, like Elevador da Glória famous for its colorful street art, or Bica funicular that will take you through the picturesque part of the city. Ride the neo-Gothic vertical lift Elevador de Santa Justa connecting downtown and Chiado, or take advantage of the modern ones, like Lift Castelo.
Number 8: Castel of Saint George Castel of Saint George, initially surrounded by a wall to form a citadel, is now an iconic historical complex that played an essential role in the history of Lisbon. The fortification dates back to the 1st century AD and was occupied by different civilizations, however, the area was inhabited long before. The site was eventually conquered from the Moors by the Portuguese military action in the 1147 Siege of Lisbon. In the 13th century, the castle became a fortified residence for the kings. Today, visitors can enjoy a walk-through of castle’s expansive grounds that include the ruins of the royal palace, a permanent exhibition with objects found in the archaeological area, and several platforms with amazing panoramic views of the city and other attractions. Of course, you cannot miss funny and loud peacocks roaming around the castle complex, a sort of unofficial castle permanent residents. Check our Lisbon walking tour to get the real feel of the castle and the entire city. The link is in the description. https://amzn.to/43uwwz0
Number 7: Mercado da Ribeira and other food destinations One does not fully explore Lisbon without tasting the city’s unique cuisine. Mercado da Ribeira is one of Lisbon’s oldest markets and has been around since the 13th century. From the early beginning, the market has undergone several upgrades. The market hall, which features iron interiors and a large oriental dome, was opened in 1882. The area is divided into the traditional market that sells fresh produce and a modern food hall with over 30 stalls and bars serving top-notch Portuguese cuisine as well as food from other parts of the world. In 2014, the Time Out Market, a venture of Time Out magazine, took over the food hall part of Mercado da Ribeira. Don’t skip other markets and food destinations across the city, like the bohemian Lx Factory situated in an old textile factory complex, now full of trendy bars and restaurants, quirky shops, independent art studios and Livraria Ler Devagar — one of the most unique bookstores in the world. Walk around cobblestone streets, sit down in one of many bars or restaurants, and soak up the atmosphere. Explore Alfama and other districts with traditional taverns and restaurants, some even offering live fado, a unique genre of music that originated in Lisbon. Check our travel guide for more suggestions. By the way, our mobile-friendly travel guide covers the top 20 things to do in Lisbon and things to know before you visit, including maps, opening hours, links to buy tickets, itinerary suggestions, and other information. By purchising our travel guide, you are also helping us sustain this channel, so a big thank you for that!
Number 6: Carmo Convent Built in the 14th century, Carmo Convent used to be the largest church in Lisbon. But the Great Earthquake of 1755 destroyed the building, along with much of the city. Today, visitors can admire its grand arches and the carvings on the walls that have survived for centuries. A small archeological museum located at the sacristy features archeological finds from Portuguese history, including fountains, tombs, and architectural relics from different styles and areas. The museum also features a 15-minute interactive video projection describing the convent’s history.
Number 5: Lisbon Zoo No matter your age, a trip to the zoo will always be fun and memorable, and especially so at the Lisbon Zoo. The zoo founded in 1884, is the first park with various flora and fauna in the Iberian Peninsula. Today, Lisbon Zoo is home to over 2,000 animals from 300 different species from all over the globe, including dolphins, tigers, reptiles, primates, and other animals. The mission of the zoo is also scientific research, conservation and breeding of endangered species, along with the recreational activities. Embark on a unique adventure and explore the zoo from a different perspective and jump on a fascinating 20-minutes cable car ride.
Number 4: Museum of Art, Architecture, and Technology Visit The Museum of Art, Architecture, and Technology or MAAT opened in 2016. As the name suggests, it is home to exhibitions in art, architecture, and technology. Its distinct design stands out, with its prominent location on the banks of the River Tagus. The museum’s rooftop offers a fantastic views of the 25 de Abril bridge and the city. Instead of permanent collections, visitors can explore temporary exhibits by contemporary artists, and other creators like architects, both national and international. Don’t skip Tejo Power Station, situated in a former thermoelectric power plant, now a permanent exhibition venue. Lisbon has a long and rich history, and this is reflected in its numerous museums. Check our travel guide for more suggestions.
Number 3: Jerónimos Monastery Construction of this massive monastery and a church for the Order of Saint Jerome began in 1501 but was not completed for another 100 years. Jerónimos Monastery replaced the old church used by monks providing assistance to sailors in transit. The monastery is a prime example of Manueline architectural style from the 16th century. This Portuguese late Gothic style originated in the Portuguese Renaissance and Age of Discoveries. The style incorporates richly decorated maritime elements carved in limestone discovered on expeditions of Vasco da Gama and Pedro Álvares Cabral. Stroll along the two-story cloisters and the Church of Santa Maria, and it will be easy to understand why Jerónimos Monastery is considered a symbol of Portugal’s immense wealth during the Age of Discoveries. The monastery, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is also a burial place of King Manuel I, and other prominent figures, like the famous Portuguese explorer Vasco da Gama. Did you know that the recipe for the world-renowned Portuguese custard tarts known as pastéis de Nata also called pastéis de Belém was created by the monks of Jerónimos Monastery? This video is sponsored by Beeyond, helping you save space when you travel and organize your suitcase. A revolutionary new way to organize your luggage consists of a set of small and large packing cubes. Once you’re done packing, just close both zippers, compress the air out of your packing cubes like this, and voila, your clothes are compressed, and your luggage is organized. We use Beeyond packing cubes on our travels, and they are even designed to fit your carry-on. Visit Beeyond’s Amazon page to get your own compression packing cube set. The link is in the description.
Number 2: Oceanário de Lisboa Oceanário de Lisboa is the largest indoor aquarium in Europe, home to over 16,000 marine animals and plants from 450 different species, including sandtiger sharks, cute sea otters, funny penguins, and other fascinating animals. Walk around this unique aquarium and experience four different natural habitats and learn about animal life in their natural environment through information panels. The oceanarium’s main exhibit is a large tank with glass panel windows strategically placed in various aquarium parts, creating a unique visual experience. Oceanário de Lisboa is just one of the famous landmarks located in Parque das Nações, the former site of Expo ’98. While in the Expo district, admire the majestic Vasco da Gama bridge, the longest bridge in Europe, or the beautiful Torre Vasco da Gama. Hop on the cable car to get a nice view of the entire district.
Number 1: Commerce Square Praça do Comércio or Commerce Square, overlooking the Tagus River, served as a transportation and commercial hub, and is now the seat of some of the most important Portuguese state offices. Walk along Cais das Colunas or Ribeira das Naus to enjoy a historic waterfront area. One of the most famous attractions in the square is Arco da Rua Augusta, a stone building commemorating the city’s reconstruction after the earthquake in 1755.
Climb the arch to enjoy spectacular views of the square and the city. The arch entrance reveals Lisbon’s main pedestrian area, Rua Augusta, a bustling street full of shops and restaurants. The nearby Rossio Square has been one of the main squares in Lisbon since the Middle Ages. Sit down in one of many cafes or restaurants, like the historic Café Nicola, and admire traditional Portuguese pavement style “calçada” and the plaza’s baroque fountains and neoclassical architecture. And here is the bonus that we promised. If you have some time left, explore Almada district with Cristo Rei National Sanctuary, a favorite destination for those looking to spend some quiet time with breathtaking views towards the river and the city. If you find it familiar, it’s because it resembles the Christ the Redeemer statue of Rio de Janeiro. Thank you for watching. We wish you an amazing trip to Lisbon!

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In this post, we'll show you the top 10 things to do in Madrid. This post is based on our fun trip to the Spain’s capital city. Don't forget to like this post, subscribe to our channel, and enable notifications. And share your own experience or ask a question in the comments below. Sponsored by Beeyond compression packing cubes for travel. The link is in the description. And stick around until the end because we have a bonus for you.
Top 10 things to do in Madrid ⭐ Sponsored by BEEYOND packing cubes, a revolutionary new way to pack your luggage 🧳 🎒 👉 https://amzn.to/3P2ipML 👈 (on Amazon)
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Here are our top 10 picks:
Number 10: Plaza Mayor Plaza Mayor is one of the most important public spaces in Madrid. The square which once hosted coronations and executions, was first constructed in the 16th century. The square’s name and functions changed several times over the course of history, but it started out as a popular marketplace. Today, Plaza Mayor is famous for outdoor cafes and restaurants, the statue of Philip III on a horse, and the much-anticipated Christmas market. Don’t skip one of many entrances to Plaza Major, such as Arco de Los Cuchilleros, the most famous one. The square is home to the historic Casa de la Panaderìa, which served as the town’s main bakery hundreds of years ago. It is now also home to The Madrid Tourism Center. Visit other squares in Madrid, like the famous Puerta del Sol dating back to the 15th century.
Number 9: Food & markets Madrid is packed with exquisite bars, elegant restaurants, colorful markets, and sophisticated outdoor terraces. The city is a melting pot of Spanish cuisine, highlighting the country's diverse food culture. Start your day with a serving of tasty churros dipped in hot chocolate at Chocolatería San Ginés. Spaniards are known for going big for lunch, so huevos rotos, paella or any other typical spanish meal is a great option. Enjoy your lunch or dinner at authentic places, like Casa Toni, and order one of many delicious food options. And finish your day at the most popular food market in Madrid, Mercado de San Miguel, and try delicious appetizers called tapas with a glass of authentic Spanish wine. This century-old food hall is famous for its cast-iron structure and with its ideal and convenient central location, and flavors of every corner of Spain, the Mercado de San Miguel attracts over 10 million visitors annually. Visit also other food markets across Madrid.
Number 8: El Retiro Park El Retiro is a vast green space, home to expensive gardens, beautiful lakes, and numerous historic buildings. Once a royal park designed for King Felipe IV in the 17th century, El Retiro is now a popular public area. Rent a boat at El Retiro Pond, an artificial lake, The magnificent Palacio de Cristal or Glass Palace conservatory, a former greenhouse that now houses art exhibitions. On any given day, the park is filled with people of all ages enjoying the outdoors, including local musicians and performers entertaining the public, especially on weekends. Don’t skip the Monument to Alfonso XII, The Rose Garden, with over 4,000 roses, and Puerta de Alcalá, once the main entrance to the city, located just outside the park. Did you know that the park was once a part of a royal palace complex, but during the Peninsular War at the beginning of the 19th century, the building was seriously damaged and couldn’t be restored? Madrid offers other beautiful parks. Check our travel guide for more suggestions. By the way, our mobile-friendly travel guide covers the top 20 things to do in Madrid, including maps, opening hours, links to buy tickets, and other information. By purchasing our travel guide, you are also helping us sustain this channel, so a big thank you for that!
Number 7: Matadero Madrid Matadero Madrid is a cultural arts center located in a former slaughterhouse and cattle market built between 1911 and 1925. The complex is now home to several contemporary art studios, museums, exhibition areas, and theaters. After its successful renovation in 2006, Matadero Madrid caters to various fields of art interests with numerous programs you can visit, including ongoing art exhibitions in one of many buildings across the complex. We visited a unique immersive experience in Madrid Artes Digitales, exploring the evolution of works of Gustav Klims through virtual reality, exhibition spaces, and an interactive room. And while you are in the area, you can explore the beautiful Madrid Rio Park and the banks of Manzanares River.
Number 6: Palacio de Cibeles The Palacio de Cibeles, inaugurated in 1919 is an exquisite example of Neoclassical architecture. This iconic building once housed the city's main post office and telegraph and telephone headquarters. The building is now home to Madrid City Council, used as a City Hall and a public cultural center. Don’t skip the magnificent Glass Gallery, a multi-purpose venue for various events, or the stunning view of the city at the Mirador observation deck. Check our Madrid walking tour to get the real feel of the surroundings and the entire city. The link is in the description.
Number 5: Atocha Train Station Madrid's central station, the Atocha Train Station from mid 19th century, is a sight worth visiting, even if you’re not traveling by train. This unique transportation hub is also a gateway to Madrid for travelers to other parts of Spain and Europe. Over a century after it was constructed, Atocha's old train shed was transformed into a luxury hub in 1992 and now includes the Greenhouse Atocha, a botanical garden composed of an extensive collection of tropical plants. The greenery is a great and relaxing sight for the passengers. Did you know that Gustave Eiffel, the leading engineer of the famous Eiffel Tower, collaborated on the renovation project of the train station?
Number 4: Templo de Debod Experience a piece of Egypt right in the heart of Madrid. Templo de Debod is an actual over 2,000-years old temple relocated from Egypt, originally a shrine built to worship the Egyptian god Amun. The temple was a gift of gratitude by the Egyptian government to Spain in 1968, after the UNESCO’s efforts to help save several monuments and archaeological sites from being destroyed while constructing the Aswan High Dam on the Nile River. You can also visit the interiors and admire its hieroglyphics and sculptures. If you don't have time to visit the interiors, also because there is usually a very long line of people waiting to see the temple from the inside, you can still admire it from the outside. It is especially enchanting during the sunset. Surrounded by charming parks and gardens, the site is a local favorite for scenic strolls, picnics, and even yoga.
Number 3: Queen Sofia Arts Center From classical collections to modern installations, Madrids’s Golden Triangle of Art consists of three world-class museums and is considered a mecca of global excellence in art, history, and culture. Visit Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofía, a museum of 20th-century art opened in 1992. The museum is named after Queen Sofia and is situated close to CaixaForum art center. Queen Sofia Arts Center houses a collection of art from some of the most famous artists in history, including Pablo Picasso and Salvador Dali. Visitors can also enjoy a variety of interactive exhibits, making it an ideal place to spend the afternoon. In addition to the arts center, the museum also houses a library, auditorium, and café. This video is sponsored by Beeyond, helping you save space when you travel and organize your suitcase. A revolutionary new way to organize your luggage consists of a set of small and large packing cubes. Once you're done packing, just close both zippers, compress the air out of your packing cubes like this, and voila, your clothes are compressed, and your luggage is organized. We use Beeyond packing cubes on our travels, and they are even designed to fit your carry-on. Visit Beeyond's Amazon page to get your own compression packing cube set. The link is in the description.
Number 2: Gran Vía Spain’s vibrant capital is also a renowned shopping destination. Gran Vía is Madrid’s most famous street, also known for its iconic and remarkable architecture. Built between 1910 and 1930, Gran Via was essential to Madrid’s development and modernization. Tagged as the street that never sleeps, the Gran Via also boasts next-level nightlife experiences, driven by luxurious bars, renowned theater productions, high-end street art, world-class designer stores, and enormous shopping malls. You will hardly run out of options in Gran Via, with the numerous stores by popular fashion brands such as Zara, Mango, Primark and high-end boutiques. Besides shopping, visitors can also watch theater and musical shows since the city is also known as the Spanish Broadway. Don’t skip the first skyscraper in Spain or the Iconic Metropolis office building, one of the major highlights of Gran Via. BTW, did you know that the biggest Zara store in the world is located on Gran Via, right across from Plaza de España.
Number 1: Palacio Real A visit the Palacio Real will take you on a journey through Spain’s royal history. The Royal Palace of Madrid is the official home of the Spanish Royal family. And while the royal family no longer actually lives there, the palace is still used for state ceremonial purposes. The palace, open to the public, comprises over 3,000 rooms, including the Throne Room and the Royal Armoury. Next to the palace is the Neo-Romanesque crypt Catedral de Almudena, the seat of Madrid’s Roman Catholic Archdiocese, consecrated by Pope John Paul II in 1993. Behind Madrid’s grandest church is Parque de Emir Mohamed, the location of the ruins of the Muslim Walls, built in the 9th century during the Muslim occupation of the Iberian Peninsula. Don't miss beautiful Neoclassical Sabatini Garden right next to the palace or an English-style garden - Campo del Moro. And here is the bonus that we promised. Flamenco is Spain's most celebrated dance and music style, commonly performed through rhythmic clapping, feet stamping, and emotional vocals and guitar. So, if you have some time left, visit one of the countless flamenco shows thought the city. Although flamenco is a form of Spanish folk music and dance that originated in the Andalusian region, Madrid became a epicenter for those looking to succeed in this special genre. This unique art form is believed to have developed from intermingling cultres of Andalusian Roma, Sephardic Jews and Moors from southern Spain. There are many other attractions and neighborhoods to discover in Madrid. We wish you a fantastic trip to this amazing metropolis!

Sleep is an important part of our lives, and how well we sleep depends a lot on how comfortable and cozy our bedding is. Nothing quite comes close to a feather and down quilt in terms of creating a comfortable and relaxing sleeping environment. Sleepy Joey is your best bet if you're in Australia and looking for the ideal quilt made of feathers and down. With their extensive variety of great sheet material items, Lethargic Joey is your go-to location for a rich and agreeable rest insight.
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A feather and down quilt from Sleepy Joey can be purchased with ease. Simply follow these steps:
Search for "Sleepy Joey Australia" on your preferred search engine to visit the Sleepy Joey website.
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the order WITHIN the tiers doesn’t really matter after A tier. i’ve just grouped it randomly or by album. also the logo kind of covers ‘maddie in heaven’.
nothing belongs below D, and i have added an S+ tier so a lot of songs have moved up which i think they deserve. most of the newer albums don’t belong below B imo, tv girl has come far. however, some old songs are bangers compared to a few new ones.
a lot of this is subjective obviously because everyone had preferences on which melodies and beats they prefer and which songs are closer to their hearts. for example, i def feel like the vapourware album is slower compared to brads other works which i’m not into but i still listen often.