Lots of paying patreons use this board for discussing the game too. Besides, BloodyMares isn't asking you to respect his work, only his early-release policy which is hardly an exhaustive task, I'm sure.
I pay for Eva's patreon, can't afford BM too, but I don't get the guide until he releases it to the public, because I respect his work.
This is just a thought, but what is your Holly's relation to Ian?
I've been under the impression that Holly getting together with Ian will neutralise the holly_change stat (because she got her man successfully without having to change).