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Title: Between the Bars by kiki-miserychic Musical artist: Chris Garneau Pairing: Merlin/Arthur Length: 2:30 minutes Author on LJ: ![[info]](http://l-stat.livejournal.com/img/userinfo.gif) kiki_miserychicAuthor Website: vid tagWhy this must be watched: I've decided to rec a songvid for crossover day, for once simple reason: it's awesome. It takes the Arthurian myth from so many different sources, and weaves it into something that shines new light not only on Prince Arthur and Merlin in Merlin, but on why this story has endured for so long and still contains so much power. Between the Bars | | |
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Title: Gene Therapy by Lady Ra Pairing: John Sheppard/Rodney McKay, Lex Luthor/Clark Kent Author on LJ: ladyraAuthor Website: Visions of Pretty Boys Doing Naughty ThingsWhy this must be read:1. The way these fandoms are crossed is brilliant. The SGA!verse and the Smallville!verse don't coexist with each just ignorant of the other. Instead, Lady Ra keeps the Atlantis!verse as our reality – complete with our comic books – and makes Smallville a parallel reality–Comic Book World. 2. Everyone from SGA is so in character it's like an actual episode. Well, aside from the slash aspect. Rodney especially is fabulous. This goes happily AU from Smallville season one, so Lex and Clark aren't technically in character, but they're extremely well done. 3. EvilGeniusMinion!Rodney and EvilMastermind!Lex. ( Excerpt )Gene Therapy | | |
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Title: After Time Pairing: Arthur/Merlin Length: ~1,400 words Author on LJ: lefcadio Author Website: fic tagWhy this must be read:I have to admit, when I saw a posting for this story I was initially doubtful. Of course it makes sense, but I didn't see how it was possible to do both series justice, particularly in such a short piece. I was perfectly happy, however, to be proven absolutely wrong! Part of what's so wonderful is the way that the heavy, dreamlike feeling of the DiR series will occasionally pervade the story, without once losing the characteristic voice of Merlin. The one problem? Now I want more. ( Read an excerpt )After Time | | |
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Title: Tales of the Barman Pairing: Lots? None in the chapter I'm reccing, but the fic has 247 chapters Author on LJ: N/A Author Website: Archived at Twisting the Hellmouth Why this must be read:I have a solemn duty to rec Tales of the Barman to everyone I see. This is not only the granddaddy of all Buffy crossovers, it's also one of the best satirical fanfics I've ever read, and it has decent characterization of every character. Tales of the Barman is a collaborative effort started by Methos, and taken over by everyone else on TTH. The chapter I'm rec'ing here is the LOTR/Buffy/Slayers/Star Trek chapter. Yeah, that's the other reason I'm rec'ing this here. Tales of the Barman could well be the definitive crack crossover. That is, hilarious, addictive and highly hallucinatory. Go forth and read, friend! Tales of the Barman #198 | | |
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Title: The Bay City Affair by GrandeRobino
Pairing:Kuryakin / Solo; Starsky/Hutch
Author on LJ: unknown
Author Website: none that I know off, but you can find her on Peja's site The Wonderful World of Makebelieve
Word Count: 17,251
Why this must be read:
It seems like a natural, doesn't it? Two series, set in about the same time period, with two male leads. In addition, there are a lot of parallels in the relationships between the partners.
In this story, GrandeRobino has the two teas meeting for the first time, then compares and contrasts their relationships. She finds many more similar things than dissimilar. See if you can tell which pair she is discussing in each sample:
( Samples )
Oh, and did I mention that there is a plot? Starsky and his partner are after a very bad guy and hope to finally have him put in jail for good. The case is coming up for trial shortly. But two guys show up suddenly from U.N.C.L.E. and they are also interested in the defendent. What is their connection to the case and why do they want to team up with S/H?
( Read an excerpt: )
The Bay City Affair | | |
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Title: Begone (Or, y'know, however I get rid of you guys) by villainnyPairing: Fraser/Kowalski, Aziraphale-Crowley (depending on the prescription of your slash goggles) Length: 1,662 words Author on LJ: villainnyAuthor Website: unseen_writingsWhy this must be read:Aziraphale and Crowley miniaturized and perched on Fraser's shoulders is, in itself, a hilarious image, and one adorable enough to make fuzzy baby animals flail and squee and possibly set up a Cute Human Overload site. IMHO. ( So, starting with that image = win. )Begone (Or, y'know, however I get rid of you guys) | | |
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Title: Knight's Gambit, by Killa Pairing: Methos/Alva Keel, (Duncan/Methos implied) Author on LJ: killabeezAuthor Website: Killa's Adventures in MelodramaWhy this must be read:If you've seen the TV show Miracles, then you've met the enigmatic Alva Keel, and you know that it just makes sense that he's an Immortal. This story can be summed up quite efficiently by the quote that Killa uses at the start of the story. What did Methos do between the events of "Archangel" and "Indescretions?" A question oft asked. This story tells us a little bit about that. Also, it was written for me! Allll for meeeee. And it makes me happy. Enjoy! ( An excerpt: )Knight's Gambit | | |
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Crossover Day, yay! Title: The Comfort of Adversity by kantayraPairing: Clark/Lex Author on LJ: kantayraAuthor Website: Kantayra's Fic on LJWhy this must be read: I swore for years there was no chemistry between Lex and Clark on Smallville and then Kantayra sucked me in, the evil bitca! Her fics are hilarious! You will laugh yourself silly. Most of her stories are more Smallville than DC but her Mercy is NOT Tess Mercer, but the Mercy Graves from the comics, and she's priceless. Best character depiction ever of her! In this fic, Kon-El exists and it's kind of a smush between Smallville and DC Comics. There's a death in the family and Clark freaks and runs away, and Connor moves in with Lex, and then Clark returns all lonely and slightly angsty and slightly horny. It's mostly a Clark/Lex fic but it's one I could see as easily in DC Comics as in Smallville, and Kon is just wonderful. ( an excerpt )The Comfort of Adversity | | |
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Fandom: Xena Warrior Princess Pairing: Gabrielle/Xena Length: 5,076 words Author LJ: n/a Author Website: http://www.academyofbards.org/authors/julia_goldman.htmlWhy This Must Be Read:Every one of this author's fics are amazing, but this one stood out to me for several reasons. 1) Exquisite use of language and imagery. So full of descriptiveness and poetic-ness, it almost causes me to swoon. 2) It is set during and post 'Return Of the Valkyrie' (which is the last installment of one of the best and most romantic trilogies in the series). 3)It is a first time story that isn't too sappy or too cheesy, set during the last season (which is also a rarity). It is two mature women, who happen to love each other beyond the love of friendship. Every single line of this story is amazing. It is philosophical and has depth. It is loving and tender. Just a perfect story and honestly one of the best this entire fandom has to offer. ( a bit of the fic )Constancy by Xena's Little Bitch, aka Julia Noel Goldman | | |
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Fandom: MERLIN Pairing: Merlin/Arthur Length: Novella Author on LJ: mercer_epsilonAuthor Website: fic fic fic tagWhy this must be read: Based on the Celtic myth of Deirdre, this long, beautifully creepy quest takes Arthur and Merlin out of Camelot and all they're familiar with, tests their mettle, and then spits them out the other side, bloody, and most definitely bowed. Yes, this is a tragedy, but oh, so well done. The Luck of the Irish: one, two, three, four, five | | |
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Fandom: STARGATE: ATLANTIS Pairing: Evan Lorne/David Parrish, implied John Sheppard/Rodney McKay Length: 3,371 words Author on LJ: seleneheartAuthor Website: Worlds Undreamed OfWhy this must be read:It's a fun, lighthearted tale that takes the "sex pollen" cliché and skewers it. Also featured are Dr Parrish in full botanist mode; goofy, sneaky Lorne; and really hot sex. Sex Pollen Is a Myth | | |
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Fandom: U2 (RPS) Pairing: Adam/Larry Length: Multi-chapter (1-4 are linked at end of this post; rest of chapters in community memories) Author on LJ: occulaAuthor Website: ![[info]](http://l-stat.livejournal.com/img/community.gif) u2slash (Membership locked to anyone under 18) Why this must be read:Occula is one of U2 slash's always-recced writers, and on the evidence of Secrets, it's not hard to see why. This multi-chapter fic delves into Adam and Larry's relationship from way back in the baby!U2 days (a very popular era in our community). Occula charts the growing attraction between the pair, and gives us both viewpoints, alternating them between chapters. Both Adam and Larry have strong characterisation, and their actions seem very 'them', something that is vital in making a fic like this believable. They go from friends to more over the course of a tour, and I love how Occula makes this happen. There's no sudden groping and random sex - she makes this happen gradually and naturally, from young curiosity to something much, much more. Even when she has them confess to Bono and Edge what's been going on, it is realistic and heartwarming. You can't go wrong with any Occula fic, really, but this time 'round, I'm directing you Secrets-ward. I don't think you'll regret it. Secrets | | |
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Tomorrow is the 15th of the month, which means Crack Van Collisions, a.k.a. cross-over day. Drivers, you may rec one fic that crosses over your fandom with another (no, this does not count against your maximum). Please post crossovers in the following format: Subject: Fandom/Fandom (Rating) Title: Title by Author Pairing: (no abbreviations, please) Author on LJ:Author Website:Why this must be read:(link to story) Thanks, all! | | |
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Fandom: LORD OF THE RINGS Pairing: Finduilas/Denethor (no abbreviations, please) Length: Very, very long, but easy to read in small bits Author on LJ: http://edoraslass.livejournal.com/Author Website: Archived at Henneth-AnnunWhy this must be read:Everything about Denethor, Boromir and Faramir changed after I read this. A beautiful look at the life of the Steward's household told by the nanny, starting from Boromir's birth and going through the end of the War of the Rings. Edoraslass knows and loves children, and that shines through in a Boromir and Faramir who could run up to you one day at the park, while simultaneously being very much the person they were in the books. As usual for Edoraslass, every character is amazing. Even the drunken lout who makes a single appearance! Denethor and Finduilas feel like people and parents, struggling with children and a kingdom in the midst of chaos and loss. Edoraslass has more short stories in this universe, but I can't possibly list them all and the mods wouldn't like me very much if I did. So take this for what is is: an excellent world that can be fleshed out at will as you take in more of Edoraslass' stories. Go read. Under My Wing | | |
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Fandom: LORD OF THE RINGS Pairing: Het OC/?? Length: 6 chapters of normal length Author on LJ: http://edoraslass.livejournal.com/ Author Website: Archived at Henneth-Annun Why this must be read: The one and only Boromir Lives fic that could actually happen. Yeah, you heard me. The plot is excellent - I can't say any more so I don't spoil any more of the surprise. As I read this fic, I could actually relate to the characters' feelings and thoughts. The writing is a little abrupt on occasion, but that actually helps you feel what's going on. My favorite thing is - actually, forget talking about it, I'm just gonna go read it. You should too. Shadow of Himself | | |
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ACK, sorry, my finger slipped and hit post. A little something light and romantic after yesterday's angstfest. Fandom: DC COMICS Pairing: Bernard/Kon-El, minor Bart/Tim Length: 2780 Author on LJ: shananaginAuthor Website: her livejournal Why this must be read: Shananagin writes a wonderful and funny Bernard Dowd, a character missed by many fans of the Robin comic book. In this fic, she twists it up by pairing him with Kon-El, whom he meets as Connor Kent at Tim's birthday party. Tim is, understandably, not happy because Robin and Tim don't mix and he's sure Kon will blow it if he hooks up with Bernard. The fic is funny, light-hearted, but with tiny bits of angstyness. Read this one, then go read all her other Bernard fics, many of them Bernard/Tim. That's Friendship | | |
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Fandom: NCIS Pairing: None, GEN Length: 10,461 words Author on LJ: mrwubbles Author Website: LJ Why this must be read:The experts said the survival rate was fifteen percent. You would think someone would have wanted to know. And that is how the author describes what might be the best tag, if you can call 10,000 words a tag, for SWAK out there. Yum@ explores the fact that just because the plague is dead doesn't mean Tony is out of the water, and does it wonderfully. The fic is from Kate's point of view as Tony's recovery goes up and down and she struggles with what his chances really are, along with the rest of the team. Very heartwarming and touching. Fifteen Percent | | |
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Fandom: HEROES Pairing: Luke/Lyle (for the first two); Peter/Sylar (for the last one) Length: 2232, 3207, and 3136 Author on LJ: roo2Author Website: MasterlistWhy this must be read: Because the world always needs more Lyle fic! This series (that isn't its official name; I made that up, because the three go together) is a kind of AU in which most of the gang is tensely working together out of Coyote Sands. The same period of time is told from three different POVs, (Luke, Lyle, and Sylar), and it’s the story of two separate relationships forming. The rest of the characters are in the background doing the same things each time but the POV shifts keep it fascinating. The teenage boy aspect of the first two is incredible, but overall, it’s the three narrator’s views on the entire cast that make this so tongue-in-cheek hilarious, but it’s funny because it’s all true. Excerpt: Lyle remembers what it was like before, when they were a normal family, or at least when they pretended to be a normal family. Before he found out his dad was a cross between James Bond and Jason Bourne. Before he found out his sister was Wolverine without the skeleton and claws (and facial hair, thank God). Before they moved and changed their names, then went on the run because his dad pissed off the wrong people (again). Before his mom would cry on his shoulder and tell him how happy she was that he was normal. Before they hooked up with Peter Petrelli and the others, who all obviously hate his dad.
Yeah. He remembers hating his boring life. Now it looks really, really good. Operation Seduce LyleKissing a Supervillain In TrainingPuppy Love | | |
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Fandom: Firefly Pairing: Jayne/Kaylee, Mal Length: 1922 Author on LJ: rinalinWhy this must be read: Because the story is a dark, bleak and beautifully written look at what happens on Serenity after the BDM. Told from Kaylee's POV the story traces the gradual disintergration of the crew and the creeping dark that will eventually consume them. Although Mal doesn't actually appear in the fic, his all pervasive presence punctuates the story in an understated way. Every time I read this story I end up with a dry mouth and a feeling of despair. Read it and weep.. ( Excerpt )The end of all things | | |
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Fandom: STAR WARS [AU]
Pairing: Han Solo/Leia Organa, Carlist Rieekan/Bail Organa
Length: 4,652 words
Author on LJ: l_a_s_o_s
Author Website: LASOS @ ffn
Why this must be read: There are some pieces of writing that touch you just because of their sheer beauty, irregardless of plot, characterisation or style. In Love Stories, the plots are breathtaking, the characterisation is dead-on and the style is gorgeous, but the prose is what stays with us, first and foremost. There is a way with words that some authors have, an almost poetic feel to the way they write that can't be learnt, taught or copied. Most authors don't have it. LASOS does.
Love Stories, no matter how angsty or painful the vignettes may seem, is, true to form, a love story. There's the love that never was between a Princess and a smuggler she never met, the love that almost was between a woman and the man that was killed in front of her, the love that was never acknowledged between two men fighting on the same side of a war, the love of a father for his long-lost son and the love that comes with the happy ending that all of us want to see in a fic, no matter how well done it is. It's all there, and it's all beautifully done.
Yes, there is tragedy there. Yes, there is angst. Yes, there is death. But amongst all that, there is beauty, a form of bittersweet beauty that touches us and uplifts us even as we read.
And the happy, perfect ending to V helps matters in that respect as well.
Love Stories, or Five Things That Never Happened @ ffn | | |
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Fandom: POPSLASH Pairing: Kevin/Nick Length: long Author on LJ: enoughofloveAuthor Website: iheartsamWhy this must be read: I cannot believe no one has recced this story yet! In the author's words, a self-indulgent, melodramatic saga. It's a Kevin/Nick epic, from the initial turmoil of forbidden love to their first kiss, all the highs and lows of their relationship, the painful ending and rebirth. Melodramatic, and wonderfully saccharine, and so, so good! One of my favorite popslash stories that I have ever read, by far. Really, just, go read. Drop in the Ocean | | |
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Fandom: BATTLESTAR GALACTICA Pairing: Starbuck/Chief friendship; mostly gen, with some references to Boomer/Tyrol Length: 1100 words Author on LJ: troviaAuthor Website: found a bsg fic tag Why this must be read: Kara Thrace and Galen Tyrol friendship fic? Yeah... it's unusual. I liked the writer's idea on how this friendship could have started. Plus the story is just cute, with Kara helping advance the budding Boomer/Tyrol romance. (Set before season one.) How The Viper Jock Met The Choirboy (And It Didn't End In Tears) | | |
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Fandom: NCIS Pairing: Gibbs/DiNozzo Length: Medium/Long Author on LJ: None Author Website: Welcome to the Home of eoen and Kethry Why this must be read:"I am not a trouble-maker! Things just happen around me. I don't start fights or anything. It's not my fault people notice me!"
"You go out of your way to be noticed. Damn it, give me a straight answer! Why did you open that letter?"
"I had to." Tony's jaw clicked shut. And thus starts Gibbs journey of discovering who Tony really is in this wonderful Post-SWAK fic by Eoen. As usual the author does a wonderful job of blending angst, comfort, and just a dash of sex in for a great reading experience that has you reading right through to the end in one go. A Family Tradition | | |
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Fandom: HIGHLANDER Pairing: Darius, Marcus Constantine, Gen Length: about 3700 words Author on LJ: none Author Website: Amberleewriter on HL FictionWhy this must be read: How often are you going to run into a story featuring Darius and Marcus Constantine? The answer is not often, and too bad because they are in my opinion two of the more compelling minor characters from Highlander: The Series. These two characters never met in canon, but it seems likely that they did know each other in one context or another. In just a few words this story shows us the start of a complex and redemptive friendship. ( An excerpt: )Gods Above and Below | | |
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Fandom: DC COMICS Pairing: Slade/Dick Length: 5456 words Author on LJ: coldfiredragonAuthor Website: her livejournal Why this must be read: Her fics are often very dark, but also emotionally complex. This one is no exception. Set during Teen Titans issue #44, Slade has taken some of the Titans, both old and new, captive, in his attempt to get his children back. There's a pre-established relationship with Dick, and Slade uses every advantage against the former Robin, and then the ending is just emotionally draining. This is not a happy fic--there's non-con and graphic sex and a lot of angst. If that's your cup of tea, this fic is just plain wonderful. Read it and then every other dark fic she's written, most of them with this pairing. ( an excerpt )Too Much Has Changed | | |
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Fandom: MERLIN Pairing: Merlin/Arthur Length: 8,900 words Author on LJ: derryereAuthor Website: Master postWhy this must be read: This is a long, dreamy, sometimes grim, sometimes euphoric road trip, which forks from canon during Mordred's escape. In Derryere's 'what if...' Merlin and Arthur take Mordred home, and find their way to something new along the way. The way out is through | | |
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Fandom: BUFFY THE VAMPIRE SLAYER/ANGEL Pairing: Mostly gen with a bit of Faith/Buffy and implied Faith/Dean in the very slight Supernatural crossover section Length: 1,500 words Author on LJ: minnow1212Author Website: just her LJ Why this must be read: This story is like a glittering necklace strung with sparkling gems. In this piece Minnow cites, as you'd expect from the title, 25 occasions celebrated in BtVS and AtS. Some of those occasions are what you might expect, but many more of the occasions she chooses are surprising slices of gorgeously affecting drama which canon overlooked. Minnow is stunningly good with character and with building emotion and drama gracefully. Her use of repetition and pattern add force to the whole story, like the chorus of a song. Each item on the list is short, but packs a solid gut-punch of feeling and personality. ( read an excerpt ) 25 Occasions People Have Celebrated in the Jossverse | | |
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Fandom: THE DARK IS RISING Pairing: mild Bran/Will Length: ~1,300 words Author on LJ: N/A Author Website: CalligraphiliaWhy this must be read:I have a soft spot for stories in which Will isn't nearly as bright as he thinks he is. It must be difficult for him, carrying around all the wisdom of the world, but with so little knowledge of how to actually live his life. Fortunately, Bran is there to keep him grounded and remind him what it is to be human. Bran's explanation at the end (which I desperately want to include here as an excerpt, but I'd rather you read it as part of the story) makes me melt a little because it is sweet and right and overall just the perfect way of telling Will just how wrong he can be. ( Read an excerpt )
Heart Like a Wheel | | |
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Fandom: HEROES Pairing: Mohinder/Sylar Length: 2150 Author on LJ: squillsAuthor Website: Fic MasterlistWhy this must be read: Because it is scorchingly hot. It’s hard to write really in-character Mylar, but this fic encapsulates the lust/hate quality that makes the Mohinder/Sylar paring so interesting (or at least did, before season three dismantled the ship). The dynamic between these two in this post-season two future AU is completely believable, as are Mohinder’s repressed feelings. There is no sappiness here; they’re still bickering and mocking and disdainful of one another, but after awhile the thing between them can no longer remain buried. And there can never be enough (consensual) shoving-roughly-against-the-wall scenes. UNF. Excerpt: “What if someone saw us?” he suddenly heard himself saying. It wasn’t what he’d meant to say, at all.
“There’s no one else around,” Sylar said softly.
He realized it wasn’t a threat. It was an invitation.Again and Again Until Finally | | |
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Fandom: Xena Warrior Princess Pairing: Xena/Gabrielle Length: 2,300 words Author LJ: n/a Author Website: http://www.fanfiction.net/u/860245/modernbardWhy This Must Be Read:The author presents such a small snippet of time for Xena and Gabrielle, yet it is full of longing and lies. Post- Girls Just Wanna Have Fun, the two women take a moment to reflect (together and separately) about the effect of Bacchus on their lives. And from Xena's perspective, we get an insight into how that single bite on her neck led the warrior princess to a shocking fact. Very well written and so much emotion for such a short piece. And that last line just kills it. ( super tiny bit of the fic )With Vision Cleared by modernbard | | |
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Fandom: Supernatural Pairing: None Length: ~2K Author on LJ: lyra_wing Why this must be read: It's not marked as such but lyra_wing 's There'll be peace when you are done is actually an AU. The author's summary reads "It sucks to know your fate." Of course, when Dean, Season 1 Dean at that, is the subject of the sentence, it takes on a double meaning. lyra_wing takes Dean's fear of abandonement and gives it a world where it has justification. In under 2K words, with absolutely no fights or desertions and despite the promise of a long life, you will feel your heart break for Dean. I have never read anything quiet so ironically sad in this fandom and if you haven't read it before, you should definitely do so. Dean never opens his fortune cookies. | | |
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Fandom: MauricePairing: Maurice/Alec Author on LJ: marauderthesn Author Website: Her fics are here. Why this must be read: Maurice's relationship with his family is an aspect which is (IMO) sadly unexplored in fanfic. Taking place some hours after the final meeting in the boathouse, Alfriston Gardens offers not only some lovely Maurice/Alec interactions, but also a poignant glimpse of Maurice's feelings as he is about to leave his home, never to see his family again. ( Read an excerpt )Alfriston Gardens | | |
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Fandom: POPSLASH Pairing: AJ/Brian Length: short story Author on LJ: cjmarloweAuthor Website: The StudioWhy this must be read: Nick Carter can do algebra! Who knew? Just kidding! This is one of the most adorable stories I have ever read. Set in the early days of Backstreet, when young Brian and AJ both find significant others, things get shaken up in the Backstreet camp. Eventually Brian and AJ find each other, and Nick just wants things to get back to normal. I am particularly fond of stories where the main plotline is portrayed from an outside perspective, oftentimes calling into question the narrator's own perception, and this is a classic example. Through Nick's eyes we see the exploits of the rest of the Boys, but his naiveté keeps him from seeing what everyone else can see. Brian and AJ's fumbling toward a relationship is adorable, as well as creating the perfect environment for Nick's own growing up. Lots of great dialogue and interaction among all five of them, and just all-around fun. Law of Averages | | |
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Fandom: THE MAGNIFICENT SEVEN Pairing: Chris/Buck rest of 7 Length: Longish approx. 60,000 words Author on LJ: Individually maybe? Author Website: This is the only story that I know of by this group Why this must be read:This story is one of the funniest of the ATF stories I've ever read and it is the only one that I know of that was written by this group of writers. Each of these authors is a treat but together they created a hilarious story. It is one of my favorites and has the most unique reason I've ever seen for having the guys all pretending to be gay. It isn't just another Chris and Buck story either, Ezra is particularly wonderful, but all the guys are in the story. Some of my favorite scenes are the ones where the guys have to take part in some of those horrible workshop role playing games. You will roll on the floor. Room Keys to Paradise | | |
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Fandom: NEWSIES Pairing: Spot/Race Length: one-shot Author on LJ: cymbalism219Author Website: Refuge ProfileWhy this must be read: One of the things I love about Newsies fandom is that Modern Day AUs are as much a part of it as 1899 fic. There's something about taking the characters and putting them in situations that you couldn't get in 1899 that I love, especially when you get to see the original characters shine through as well. Cymbalism wrote a great Meet the Family fic, and her Spot voice is excellent. Of course, her writing is always excellent, so that isn't a surprise. I love her Spot and Race in this, and even though it is an updated setting, you still see so much of the characters in them. ( excerpt )Christmas in Killarney | | |
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Fandom: BATTLESTAR GALACTICA Pairing: Athena/Helo Length: about 1600 Author on LJ: apparently doesn't have an LJ? kaynaraAuthor Website: on ff.netWhy this must be read: This is both sweet and disturbing; an unapologetic look at Sharon Agathon and how she perceives the other women who wear her face. It's also a fantastic exploration of her ties to Karl and Hera, her roles as partner and mother. Not a perfect story--I had a little trouble with the flashback being written in the same tense as the rest of the story--but interesting and worth reading. There Are Many Copies | | |
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Fandom: STAR WARS [AU] Pairing: - Length: 1,741 words Author on LJ: vega_ofthe_lyre Author Website: star wars fanfiction @ vega_writes Why this must be read: Fandom seems to be a bit ambivalent towards Ahsoka Tano. Half the time she's portrayed as a clichéd Mary Sue, brilliantly fighting off the forces of evil in nothing more than a tube top (why, George, why?). The other half of the time, she is seen as having repressed sexual feelings towards Anakin, who, despite having a pregnant wife who he ends up committing mass genocide for, enters into an illogical, slightly creepy relationship with her (14 and 21? Anyone?) without any consequences. Granted, she's a relatively new character as far as canon goes -- we've only got one season of Clone Wars and the movie to go on -- and so fandom has a bit of leeway as to how to go about characterising her. But when it comes to serious, well-thought-out genifc about Ahsoka Tano's time as Anakin Skywalker's Padawan, there's next to nothing. Admittedly, it doesn't seem like a teenage Padawan with a Valley Girl accent (again: why, George, why?) is exactly serious introspection material, but there you go. vega_ofthe_lyre has written a simply gorgeous fic detailing Ahsoka's reaction to her time training with Anakin, and in relatively few words provides an exceptional insight into not only Ahsoka's mind, but also her Master's. In The Night Descending, we see the hypocrisy of Anakin's actions towards Ahsoka -- lecturing her for recklessness and anger, of all things, come on -- but we also see what could, in a parallel universe, have been a friendship. The Night Descending reminds us of the fact that Anakin is an abnormally young Knight (going by the logic that he never took his Trials and that Obi-Wan was Knighted at 25, and only because of exceptional circumstances), and certainly not experienced or balanced enough to take on responsibility for the fourteen-year-old Ahsoka. vega_ofthe_lyre subconsciously reminds us of the fact that Anakin and Ahsoka's relationship is, and will always be, defined by war -- but apart from the angst, there is also bittersweet friendship there, one that really defines exactly what Ahsoka may become to Anakin. And of course, the writing is gorgeous. (Okay, so I said I was reccing mostly humour. I lied.) The Night Descending @ vega_writes | | |
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Fandom: Firefly Pairing: Jayne/Kaylee Length: 7,158 Author on LJ: unkown Why this must be read There's a crack in the bulkhead between Jayne and Kaylee's rooms. At first Kaylee just listens to Jayne sleeping, but then sex gets in the way and things change. The author depicts the loneliness of the black and the change in emotions between Jayne and Kaylee beautifully. Especially considering that much of the interaction between the two is conducted with a wall dividing them. This was one of the first Jaylee fics I ever read and is what sold me on the pairing. Jayne is sexy, a little bit dim, and a touch amoral and Kaylee is earthy, practical and sweet. ( Excerpt )Slim as dimes | | |
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Fandom: LIFE ON MARS Pairing: Gene/OMC, Gene/Sam Length: 973 Author on LJ: dakfinv Author Website: Why this must be read:
This is a new fic. Really new. Like, this week. But it made such an immediate impression on me that I just had to include it in my recs for this month. It's now canon (as per Ashes to Ashes) that Sam died in 1980 through his car diving into the canal during a chase - although no body was ever found which raises hope in my optimistic little heart that, just as Gene and Alex are closing for their kiss in the final episode of Series 3 (still to be filmed at the moment), Sam will come crashing through the door to claim Gene as his very own snuggle puppy, push Alex out of a window and run off with Gene for a lifetime of smutty slashy goodness. Anyway, I digress. At the time of writing, Gene thinks Sam is dead and is heartbroken. This compact and bijou little fic gives us an insight into the wreck that is Gene after his loss and how he finds, just a little, hope again. It's the sort of fic that you want to hug to your breast to keep you warm, cozy and hopeful that our Sammy will, one day, return. I loved it. I hope you do to. ( Click here for the hope . . . . ) | | |
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Fandom: MERLIN Pairing: Merlin/Arthur Length: 8,200 words Author on LJ: shinethewayAuthor Website: Master listWhy this must be read: It starts with Arthur being a prat and not listening to Merlin. Then there's the hunt, with a creeping sense of foreboding. And, of course, that's when everything goes wrong. This is a beautifully evocative story, in which the writer wrings out every jot of tension from the sympathetic weather, making you feel for Merlin, like a shot of terror straight to the heart. An Unnecessary Freezing of Water | | |
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Fandom: Xena Warrior Princess Pairing: Xena/Gabrielle, super-light Xena/Ares and super light Gabrielle/OC Length: 6,525 words Author LJ: n/a Author Website: http://www.academyorbards.org/fanfic/t/temoraWhy This Must Be Read:Because it is the funniest thing ever written for the Xena-verse. Seriously. The author does their own take of a regular day for Xena and Gabrielle, the warlord they encounter, the village they must save and every other cliched/repetitive thing that occurred on the show itself. And it is so accurate in its snark, that you know this author absolutely loves Xena Warrior Princess like no other. ( a bit of the story )Fighting the Good Fight by Temora | | |
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Fandom: STARSKY & HUTCH Pairing: Starsky/HutchSize: 6K Author on LJ: callistosh65Author Website: http://www.callizz.org/S&H/S&H_stories.htm Why this must be read:Callisto wrote one of my favorite lines in the Starsky/Hutch slash fandom: "Such devotion, Blondie. Wish I was a Boston fern." It’s from her story Drenched, which, to my great sadness, has already been recced here. Therefore, because I’m not supposed to recommend a fic that’s already listed on the van, I’m going to have to recommend another of her fics that always gives me a smile: Atrocities Perpetrated by Kenneth Hutchinson (The Abridged List) As Compiled and Edited by Det. David Starsky. I would love to read the atrocities perpetrated by David Starsky (poke, poke, Callisto). Please don’t forget to send feedback to the author! Atrocities Perpetrated by Kenneth Hutchinson (The Abridged List) As Compiled and Edited by Det. David Starsky | | |
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Fandom: DUE SOUTH Pairing: Gen - Fraser, Caroline Fraser Length: 2,487 words Author on LJ: dsudis Author Website: Words Words Words Why this must be read:Pity Caroline Fraser, the first person to stand between the harsh, cold world and Benton Fraser's desire to help. In this vignette, Dira Sudis presents us with six-year-old Fraser, too young to have anything like a grownup Fraser's competence in navigating an unforgiving frontier life, but already convinced he knows best. The child's POV is spare and unsentimental, and all the more heartbreaking for it, because the seeds of the person Ben will become are all there in plain sight - all the sweetness and determination and absolutely-crazy-makingness of the man. The Way He Should Go | | |
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Fandom: BATTLESTAR GALACTICA Pairing:none; Margaret Edmondson and Laura Roslin Length: about 2500 Author on LJ: (not revealed) Author Website: (will be added later) currently this story is only available at bsg_remixWhy this must be read: I loved the original story ( The Small Moments, by runawaynun) and this extension of it works so well. Racetrack remembers her interactions with President Roslin, and those experiences range from tragic to tender. It goes past the endpoint of the first story (written in 2007) and uses information from the series finale to create a bittersweet yet hopeful ending for a secondary character who is often overlooked. The Small Moments II | | |
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Fandom: STARGATE: ATLANTIS Pairing: John Sheppard/Rodney McKay, mention of Michael/Teyla Length: ~3000 words Author on LJ: trinityofoneAuthor Website: tales of an unreal cityWhy this must be read:It's the story of how, post-"Allies", Rodney convinces the Wraith to give up on the culling Earth idea. As the author describes it, it's "kind of what the Season 3 premiere would be like, if it were written by Douglas Adams. And he was on crack". Honestly, isn't that reason enough? If not, how about gems like: The Wraith blinked at him—it looked like it was having its own mental meteor storm. “You have sex...and live?” or “All right ,” said Rodney, “I’m not a human Kama Sutra , you know” ? Missionary Position | | |
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Fandom: STAR WARS [AU] Pairing: Han Solo/Leia Organa Length: 2,836 words Author on LJ: -Author Website: skywalker05 @ ffn Why this must be read: So, the premise of this story is simple: Han Solo is Force-sensitive. Yes, I am aware that there are multiple levels of irony associated with that statement -- Han, the self-proclaimed skeptic of Luke's "hokey religion", an actual adherent of the religion itself? Well, yes, actually. And not only does skywalker05 actually acknowledge this irony in the context of the OT, she expands on it, using it to add to and explain Han's own character and actions in the films in a way that doesn't, actually, contradict canon. In fact, this fic could almost be canon. Why did Han Solo manage to survive so long before joining the Alliance? How did he know that he had to turn back and save Luke at Yavin? In what way did he manage never to die, no matter how many shootouts were involved? Simple. If Anakin Skywalker would race pods while unaware of his own abilities, then damn it, Han Solo could fly the Falcon blindfolded. With one arm. While drunk. Okay, so that doesn't actually happen in the fic. But you know what I mean. Han's voice is down perfectly in Array, and skyawlker05 creates an excellent portrayal of Han Solo as you know and love him -- only this Han Solo's a lot more conflicted, in a perpetual state of denial, and has a lot more emotional baggage to boot. And critics, there's no reason to start calling Stu on us: Han's not even that strong in the Force. Vader even goes as far as to make an offhand comment about his relative weakness in it while torturing him on Bespin. So, no fear, there's no "second chosen one" in this. In keeping with the IC Han Solo that we know and love, he doesn't even become a Jedi. The story is intelligently and powerfully structured as a series of single paragraphs each based on a common theme: that of the face of a Sabaac card ( very fitting for a certain Captain Solo, eh?). And it's also angsty and introspective, with a perfect glance at the psyche of Han Solo, canon or not, Force-sensitive or not. If Han knew how, he would command you to read this. So, you will. Idiot's Array @ ffn | | |
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Fandom: HEROES Pairing: Adam/Mohinder Length: 12,176 Author on LJ: seraphtrevsAuthor Website: Fic MasterlistWhy this must be read: Adam/Mohinder (so pretty! so snarky! So fakely British!) is the Best. Pairing. Ever. Seraphtrevs's characterization of Adam as a dashing, devil-may-care charmer with his eyes set on Mohinder is swoon-worthy, and also a perfect way of thinking about what it means to be young, handsome, dangerously charming, and 400 years old. It’s such a shame they never met in canon, because they are perfectly in character and perfect for one another. Excerpt: “Adam!” Mohinder yelped. “Watch out!”
Adam just grinned at him. He reached over and ran a hand up Mohinder’s thigh as he steered around another corner with one hand.
“Let me guess – you’re one of those people who think that life’s too short to worry about speed limits,” Mohinder said, slurring his words a little.
“On the contrary,” Adam said. “Life is too agonizingly long – you have to go fast to outrun the tedium of it all because once that sucks you in, there’s no escape.”Peace On Earth and Good Will Toward Men | | |
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Fandom: HIGHLANDER Pairing: Duncan/Methos Length: about 8000 words, total Author on LJ: tovalentinAuthor Website: Valentin's StoriesWhy this must be read: I read the third of these stories, Strip Him and Bathe Him, first and was so delighted I had to read the others. This is Duncan/Methos in the old style, with lots of jousting sex and power struggles between them. "Strip Him and Bathe Him" remainds my favorite, but "By Any Other Name" is totally hot, and "Payback's a Bitch" is delightfully kinky. These are truly adult, but all in fun. Perfect for a Thursday break. By Any Other Name | Payback's a Bitch | Strip Him and Bathe | | |
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