Tales from the Book Bandit

choose wisely

2013-02-26T14:25:44Z

More reading group business: below are the nominations for our first book club read. Two votes per person, and to those of you who nominated, you must use at least one of those votes on a title not suggested by yourself. All clear? Then let's go!

Delusions of Gender by Cordelia Fine (non-fiction)
Cold Light by Jenn Ashworth
The Haunting of Hill House by Shirley Jackson
Going Clear: Scientology, Hollywood, and the Prison of Belief by Lawrence Wright (non-fiction)
The Yellow Birds by Kevin Powers
Before I Go To Sleep by S J Watson
The Perks of Being a Wallflower by Stephen Chbosky
Into the Wild by Jon Krakauer (non-fiction)
Stonemouth by Iain Banks
The Unlikely Pilgrimmage of Harold Fry by Rachel Joyce

View Poll: Book Selection

awesome people

2013-02-22T10:24:33Z

Thanks to those of you who are interested in setting up a book group with me!

So far on the YES PLEASE LIST we have:
nahara (that would be me)
lemniciate (that would be Jenn)
chaosmaka
kuteki
etoiledunord
junkshop_disco
planejane
lizardspots
Sophie (BFF to Jenn)

The maybes/drop-ins...
sabriel75 - who may come to a meeting in August when she's in the country

And dear old kylezy who doesn't know what books are. *pets her*

If everyone is happy to get moving on this, I have several things that need to be worked out prior to our inaugural meeting!

Several orders of business:

Contact details
All those of you who want to be in the group, or would like to be kept abreast of our goings on (what we're reading, where/when we're meeting etc.) please PM me an email address you check with some regularity. Mine is withthedove AT gmail DOT com.

Meeting schedule
I presume everyone is happy with meeting every other month, but I would like to know whether the group as a whole would prefer weekends or week day evenings for meet-ups. Furthermore, whether we should work out future dates for our meetings at the meetings, or whether we should have it as a standing date, e.g. the third Saturday every other month. Tell me in comments!

First meeting
It’s almost the end of Feb, so let’s say our first meeting will be in late April/early May. I figured it would be good to start our first meeting having already read a book, as an ice-breaker and getting-to-know-each-other session. Once I know more re. the above scheduling request, I can then suggest dates for this first meeting using Doodle.

How to decide on books

View Poll: Reading Groups 2

The first book
As previously stated, I think it best if we come to the first meeting having already all read the first reading group selection, so deciding on what the first book should be will be a slightly different process to above. How about this time we each suggest two books we’ve not read and I’ll put up a poll. Most votes win. Yes/No? If yes, email your two suggestions to the email I gave above.

Where to meet
Take it in turns to select a pub? Somewhere we can sit for a while, get some wine and not disturb the other punters with our chatter. I'd say chose somewhere fairly central so that it is easy (as far is London is ever easy) for everyone get to. Is this OK or are there other suggestions?

Suggestions/Questions
Put them in comments!

Londoners?

2013-02-21T12:42:23Z

CALLING ALL LONDON BASED BOOK ENTHUSIAST ON MY FRIENDS LIST.

I know there are some Londoners on my friends list (and some on lemniciate’s), so what I would like to propose to all of you is: what do you think of starting a reading group?

I’m not talking about an on-line one (I’ve always found that on-line book clubs never work as well as our good intentions mean them to), but an in-real-life reading group, where we meet up in person and discuss books. I’d propose meeting up after work/on the weekend every other month. That would give us all two months to read the selected book. I’d also propose that the group not be genre specific, as personally I like to read a range of different fiction/non-fiction titles.

Is this even viable? Would anyone want to join one with me and Jenn?

View Poll: Reading Group

Teen Wolf

2012-06-10T22:22:24Z

Teen Wolf
Stiles/Derek

Alpha Spikes by starbeast
Summary: AU. Alphas are like royalty and are offered their choice of any age eighteen-and-up virgin Omega for each year's heat season, as a 'thank-you' to all they've done for their compounds throughout the year. Derek is an Alpha and...yeah, Stiles. Stiles is an Omega. And still a virgin. In every way. And he's just turned eighteen. This...is not his day.
Rating: NC17
Length: 62k
Comments: Had a blast reading this. Just the kind of trope I love.

The Common App by ionthesparrow
Summary: The summer after junior year, Stiles trains to be part of a werewolf pack, comes out, is kissed for the first time, falls in love, then out, and still has nothing to write about for his college application essays.
Rating: PG13
Length: 13k
Comments: A take on soul-bonding which I can totally get behind. The chemistry between Stiles and Derek in this fic is electric and very much worth the read. Also read the brilliantly ploty follow-up, As We Sail It.

The Forgotten Predator by WitticasterCole
Summary: When half a dead woman is found in the woods outside Beacon Hills, Special Agents Stilinski and Martin return to their hometown to investigate.
Rating: PG13
Length: 40k
Comments: Love Stile's voice -- very witty and very him. It has great pacing and is fun read. Oh, and Lydia kicks all kinds of ass.

go home, or make a home by lady-ragnell
Summary: In a world where Derek lets Scott kill the Alpha and get the cure, he has to figure out how to rebuild his life, with help from Stiles.
Rating: PG
Length: 7.4k
Comments: A lovely little fic about the blossoming relationship between Stiles and Derek. They are so wonderfully themselves in this story.

Hear His Alibis by 1001cranes
Summary: Creepy never looked so cute - or, how Sheriff Stiles accidentally adopted a juvenile offender. (another) pyromaniac au.
Rating: PG
Length: 6.6k
Comments: This was lovely and human and I enjoyed every minute of it. Also read the (much darker) follow-up, Multiplied by Seven, which is the story told from Stiles and Derek's POV (NC17 for sure, and beware, under-age sex).

Important Things by suzvoy
Summary: Stiles learns that even with werewolves, giant lizards and psychopathic hunters on the loose, life can still find other ways to screw with you. Case in point: everyone keeps assuming he and Derek are a couple. What the hell?
Rating: R
Length: 70k
Comments: Love, love. love.

Late Night Basement Songs by melfice
Summary: They're still nobodies when Laura Hale hears them, when she asks them to open for her band at their show in Lincoln, Nebraska. Which is a little terrifying and extremely exciting and it's the first real gig they book. It's also the first time that Stiles meets Derek.
Rating: PG
Length: 8.2k
Comments: Mmm... band AU. Derek in guyliner. Is there really anything better?

Mating Habits of the Domesticated North American Werewolf by lielabell
Summary: Derek doesn’t do pining. He doesn’t. So when it becomes clear that Stiles is much more interested in having Derek as a new best friend than a boyfriend, he puts on his big boy pants and makes it fucking work. He becomes the best goddamn friend a spastic teenager could ever hope to have.
Rating: R
Length: 35K
Comments: This was full of angst -- in a good way. Oh Stiles. Oh Derek.

The One Where Derek is Courting and Stiles Fears the Zombie/Werewolf Apocalypse by im_not_a_lizard
Summary: Awkward courtship funtimes! Derek is courting Stiles in the way that all male animals go about impressing their mates. Giving them practical (if weird, like, Derek gives Stiles 10kg of steak) gifts, making a nice home (he starts renovating the old Hale house), weird shit like that. Stiles is oblivious, and Scott keeps sort of helplessly hinting at what Derek is doing to little effect.
Rating: PG13-ish
Length: 8k
Comment: Completely ridiculous -- a fun read.

Open the Door by Renay
Summary: Derek gives Stiles his jacket.
Rating: PG13
Length: ~23k
Comments: I do love a good Teen Wolf fic wherein Stiles is dense and Derek is secretly trying to court him.

The Rags of My Skin by Saucery
Summary: In a world ruled by werewolves, Stiles is a hooker and Derek is his client.
Rating: NC17
Length: 6k
Comments: God I wish this fic was longer. I love the world building (I think this would could be explored in no less than 100k, no lie) and it's a damn sexy read. Phew.

(Sacred) In the Ordinary by idyll
Summary: The Pack, after college, graduate school and the starting of careers, comes back to Beacon Hills. Nothing's gotten less complicated after all this time.
Rating: R
Length: ~78k
Comments: Sacred is literally my favourite piece of fanfiction in this already talented fandom. It's beautiful, cleverly written and honest. The dynamics of the pack their behaviour is the best I've read. It's just such a relief to read all of them as bright, mature adults. The slow build of Derek and Stiles' relationship was breathtaking. The difference between their causal intimacy as pack slowly becoming more focused and deliberate, slowly and inch by inch. Their coming together, when it finally happens, feels like perfection.

The Sanctuary by chase_acow
Summary: Stiles runs away during his first heat, right into the waiting and ambiguously scary arms of the Alpha's nephew, Derek Hale. He doesn't have any choice except to submit, but along the way, he digs up a mystery that threatens his family and even the town's safety.
Rating: NC17
Length: 25k
Comments: A fun and sexy AU where Stiles is a werewolf in a werewolf town and he's going into his first heat and then Derek is there and... just really HOT.

There is a Brotherhood by minusoneday
Summary: The one where pledge brothers Stiles and Scott start a prank war with Derek Hale's fraternity.
Rating: NC17
Length: 21k
Comments: A really fun collegue AU. Stiles is brilliant and clever and sarcastic. Derek is a brooder who likes Stiles' cleverness and sarcasm. Happy-making.

To Have Outlived the Night by stillane
Summary: Derek steps away from the window. “You helped me. They took that as a declaration.”
Rating: R
Length: 23k
Comments: Wow. This might be my favourite piece of TW fanfiction thus far. Beautifully written and both Stiles and Derek's characters are pitched perfectly. I love reading something from Derek's POV for a change. I can see why this got a billion kudos, honestly.

My gril crush, lemme show you it

2012-02-27T17:03:09Z

So awards season has come and gone. Lots of great films/music and lots of boring speeches. :P

I just felt like sharing what has to be THE ULTIMATE acceptance speech, as given by my girl!crush, the beautifully clever Emma Thompson. I am not worthy. ♥____♥

Recs: The Eagle

2012-02-14T19:35:14Z

The Eagle

Bottoming Out and the multi-chapter sequel One Percenters by frackin_sweet
Summary: Modern AU where Marcus and Esca like riding motorbikes (and each other). But can a road rider and a motocross kid ever really make it work?
Rating: NC17
Length: ~50k overall?
Comments: Starts out as a long, and totally hot, PWP piece but slowly and deftly moves into a very compelling story of relationships and ex-cop!Marcus. The chemistry between these two is amazingly written and well worth the read.

The Boy with the Thorn in His Side by lallyloo
Summary: In Chemistry class, outgoing hipster Esca is partnered with moody goth Marcus. After a rocky start, they become friends and Esca finds himself drawn to the mysterious boy behind all the make-up.
Rating: R
Length: 26k
Comment: There was something very sweet about this High School AU. It charmed me.

Odi et Amo by pouxin
Summary: Esca and Marcus are at an all boys boarding school in the UK in the 1970s. They hate each other, until they both become members of the newly formed Dead Poets' Society... Adolescent ardour follows.
Rating: NC17
Length: ~40k
Comments: I wasn't sure of this fic at first... 40k of second person is a difficult sell, but I think pouxin pulled it off beautifully. This a fic for those of you who love poetry. The author does a great job is incorporating the perfect verses for what Marcus and Esca feel towards each other, using dead poets' words instead of their own. The sex scene (a first time for both) read as very believable and touching.

The Persistence of Memory by savvierthanu
Summary: Esca loses his memory. Marcus tries to help him get it back.
Rating: NC17
Length: ~12k
Comments: A lovely old amnesia trope. Particularly love Marcus in this - so noble.

See the Mountains Kiss High Heaven by rufflefeather
Summary: Marcus is too noble for his own good, Esca is too stubborn and they both are completely oblivious.
Rating: R
Length: 8k
Comments: One of the first fics I read in the fandom. Canon fic set after they return the Eagle where Marcus gets a new slave. Lovely and achy and plenty of crossed-wires.

Widdershins by beederiffic
Summary: Esca's a house master and history teacher at a 1950s boys school on the English/Scottish border, where welcoming the new Latin teacher proves to be a challenge.
Rating: NC17
Length: ~80k?
Comments: Sexy, sexy, sexy. beederiffic, as usual, shines when she write dialogue. She'll make you laugh and cry.

Recs: Marvel

2012-02-14T18:38:13Z

The Avengers

Living in the Future by Closer
Summary: Eighteen-year-old Tony Stark is the boy genius who woke Captain America, and now he's stuck with him. That's not a bad thing, but between Steve's wide-eyed wonder at the new world and Tony's little fanboy crush, the awkwardness just keeps happening.
Rating: R
Length: 36k
Comments: As with everything that Closer writes, this is just so delightful and funny and quick-witted. The was she writes the entire ensemble cast with such flair and personality, it's hard not love this fic to death. And her Tony Stark voice is spot on. :D

Impulse by AlchemyAlice
Summary: Bucky is found by SHIELD. Tony wants a project. They meet somewhere in the middle.
Rating: PG (maybe PG13)
Length: 3.6k
Comments: Wasn't sure what to make of a Tony/Bucky fic, but me likeies. Well written and excellent characterisation.

Semaphore by DevilDoll
Summary: "I’m trying to like you, Tony. You’re just making it very hard." Steve Rogers/Tony Stark
Rating: NC-17
Length: ~ 40k
Comments: Slow-build Steve/Tony. Tony getting over Pepper and Steve coming to terms with missing the last 70 years. Their friendship is rocky and awkward and sad, but eventually they learn to trust each other. And then love each other. Brilliant Tony Stark narration.

Slipping Through the Years by often_adamanta
Summary: The plane crash and subsequent ice might have killed Steve Rogers, but that doesn’t mean he isn’t still around, haunting those he cares about. And since the only person who can see him is Tony Stark, death sure isn’t going to be boring.
Rating: R
Length: 18k
Comments:

X-Men

Into the Fray by miss_aphelion (XMFC)
Summary: Every year, two alphas are chosen from each district for a fight to death, and every year, a single omega is chosen to join them in the arena as the prize.
Rating: R
Length: 30k
Comments: I can't get enough of alpha/omega 'verses in any fandom, but paired up with The Hunger Games, this fic was just my kind of thing.

Limited Release by rageprufrock (XMFC)
Summary: When Alex Summers broke out of supermax to rescue his stupid kid brother, he had no idea it was going to be so fucking complicated. (Charles/Erik + Hank/Alex)
Rating: R
Length: ~63k
Comments: I really shouldn't have to introduce Pru to anyone. This is very typically her. Clever to point of almost constant sarcasm. Funny and well written.

Nine Eleven Ten by Subtilior (XMFC)
Summary: Years later, Charles would remember that day. Sometimes he would wonder if he could have changed anything; other times he would despair over what he had since become. But he would always hold the image in his mind: Raven, laughing, and his thoughts flying alongside her on strong wings, silver-gold through the winter air. Once upon a time.
Rating: NC17
Length: WIP -- ~360k thus far
Comments:

* Special by minisinoo (2000 movie 'verse)
Summary: The genesis of Cyclopes.
Rating: NC-17
Length: ~150k
Comments: Though not the first ever piece of fanfic I read it was pretty close. This hit me where it hurts, such a beautiful and painful character study about Scott Summers and his early years. Realistic and human. Heed the author's warnings.

Unbound by cesare + helens78 (XMFC)
Summary: Thousands of miles apart, Erik Lehnsherr and Charles Xavier form a connection that will change both their lives. AU/Soulbonding
Rating: NC17
Length: WIP -- ~140k thus far
Comments: I don't often recommend fanfics which are WIPs for obvious reasons. However, I do occasionally make exceptions to this rule. Standing at 40 chapters (and with the final tally likely to come in at 46) there is light at the end of this angsty tunnel. The world building is fantastic. In the past I've never gone for many of the 'kinks' which are warned for in this fic, but they are so integral to this reality that I find Unbound fascinating and disturbing and it's been breaking my heart a little. Plus, what's not to love about a good soulbonding fic?

Where There is Darkness by unveiled (XMFC)
Summary: In the autumn of 2012, Daniela Zhou interviews Charles Xavier and Erik Lehnsherr. This is her story. (Charles/Erik established)
Rating: PG
Length: ~2200
Comments: Written like a newspaper interview, this fic is a short, delightful and insightful read.

* White Noise by tawabids
Summary: Charles is the consort Scheherazade, who must keep the king of Genosha occupied with stories every night or be hanged for treason.
Rating: R
Length: 10-15k?
Comments: Considering the 'Charles = Scheherazade' prompting, this is surprisingly un-fairy-tale-like. It is dark and bitter and very cleverly written. I like the structure of it, the way the story is told in different media. This is an AU set in a roiling dystopia/utopia (depends where you stand). Another Alpha/Omega fic (sort of).

Recs: Toy Story

2012-02-14T18:30:43Z

Toy Story

* Under the Table and Dreaming by snooter
Summary: Andy met Sid when he was four years old, and while some things change, a lot of things stay the same.
Rating: NC17
Length: 15k
Comments: The moment I heard the concept of this I just knew it would work and boy snooter knows what she's doing. The characters are intelligently written and nothing seems far-fetched.
There are several sequels:
Behind the Wheel (5k) Driving to California
To The Dogs or Whoever (23k) The first time Andy persuades Sid to come home with him to visit his family.
Second Most Important Person (60k) Sid and Andy's life as told by six important people in their lives. This last instalment in particular is stunning. Moving, human.

Recs: Sherlock (BBC)

2012-02-14T18:20:43Z

Sherlock (BBC)

The Theory of Narrative Causality by anon

Summary: Written for this prompt: Sherlock is a well-known fanartist whose online antics always land him on fandom_wank. John's a beloved BNF fanfiction author. They meet at a convention; geeky love ensues.
Rating: R
Length: Not sure. 20k?
Comments: Best fandom meta fic I've read to date. Not into this fandom in a huge way, but you don't need to be in order to read this. You just have to be passionate about fandom.Funny and very clever.

Experiments in Living by definewisdom
Summary: Sherlock's life - in fragments.
Rating: R
Length: ~5k
Comments: A poignant and beautifully written look at Sherlock's life.

Recs: Naruto

2012-02-14T18:19:00Z

Naruto

Duty Before Honour by SilverShine
Summary: Sakura knew why Tsunade didn't want a virgin on this mission. Things might get out of hand. Acts might be carried out too far. She was glad Kakashi was accompanying her, but right then she wouldn't have minded the entire population of Konoha.
Rating: NC-17
Length: ~154k
Comment: I love everything that SilverShine writes but I think perhaps this is my favourite Kakashi/Sakura fic -- she writes the both of them so well I can't help but ship them, even though I never read this pairing by any other author. Also check out her other K/S fics: The Window & House of Crows.

The Listening Sky by mercurial_wit
Summary:
Rating: PG-13
Length: ~16k
Comments: My favourite Naruto/Sasuke fic. Beautifully written with bags of style.

Rosemary For Remembrance by sintari
Summary: Hyuga is a house with many rooms. A Neji & Hinata centered fic. Expect madness, love, sex, and murder. This is the story of two lives and as such the parings will change. (Also, Hinanta/Naruto & Naruto/Sasuke)
Rating: R
Length: ~40k
Comments: Though not my OTP in this fandom, I'd heard nothing but praise for this particular fic and decided to give it a go. I'm so glad I did. This is very special. Quiet and sad but brimming with hope.

AWOL

2012-02-08T22:52:48Z

Sorry for disappearing on everyone for so long. I wasn't really busy, just... procrastinating because I wanted to post a book review at the beginning of the month and I didn't get it done because the book gave me ~feelings and I didn't want to post anything other than the review and... yeah, I suck.

I'll catch you all up on my life happenings (such as they are) soon. But for tonight, I come baring a very informative YouTube video. (Though the guy doing the talking talks reallysuperfastokay?)

All non-Brits NEED TO WATCH THIS IMMEDIATELY. Behold, the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland:

That is all.

SHOCK!

2012-01-17T13:15:29Z

OHMYGODGUYS! I wrote a thing.

I haven't written anything in soo long. 2011 was a massive dry spell and it looks like it might finally be over. *knocks on wood* It feels wonderful to be writing again, though I'm about a million years (give or take) late to The Eagle fandom. Plus this fic is pure self-indulgence. Hope some of you enjoy it anyways. ;)

Title: The Long Season
Fandom: The Eagle (Film)
Rating/Pairing: NC-17, Marcus/Esca
Length: ~5,600
Warnings: Scenes of a sexual nature, some minor hurt/comfort, lots of angst and un-beta'ed
Summary: Winter is a harsh time for Marcus. Every year it only gets harder. Or: Esca has to leave to return.

Recs: Star Trek [Reboot]

2011-11-28T20:29:19Z

Star Trek: XI
Kirk/Spock

* Atlas by AngelBaby1

Summary: Between what was and what will be stands James Tiberius Kirk, in all his fractured patchwork glory. Because saving the Federation was only the beginning.

Rating: NC-17
Length: ~157k (over four arcs)
Comments: This is one of many epics that I've found in the ST fandom, but it was the first that I'd read and it cemented my love and devotion to both Kirk and Spock. In particular, I loved the author's ability to write engrossing plot. Kirk might be a bit of a Gary Stu, but the fic was so enthralling that this didn't bother me hugely.

Don't Last Like the Feeling by anowlinsunshine
Summary: Kirk and Spock's relationship developing while Spock is still involved with Uhura.
Rating: R
Length: 2.6k
Comments: An achingly truthful piece from the perspective of Uhura. Her relationship with Spock and his eventual relationship with Kirk. Spot on characterisation. FYI, not cheating happens in the fic.

* Don't Stop Believing by kianspo
Summary: The story follows Spock from his own days as a cadet at Starfleet Academy to the ‘present day’ when he’s Kirk’s first officer and the Enterprise is on its five-year mission. Essentially, the story of Spock’s first real love followed by the story of him finding the love of his life. Ad astra per aspera.
Rating: NC-17
Length: WIP (~140k thus far)
Comments: My dear kianspo is a fantastic writer and her insights into all the characters are inspired and so confidently and beautifully portrayed that it often leaves me breathless and in search for words. This is a fic for those of you that love Spock unreservedly.

Evolution by rhaegal
Summary: In his first year in command of the USS Enterprise James T. Kirk must gel his new team together, adapt to his abrupt change in status over his friends, and deal with falling for his first officer. And, of course, there's always someone out to threaten the galaxy.
Rating: NC-17
Length: ~150k
Comments: So much fun to read and had me glued to my computer screen for two days.

Family Matters by Elise Madrid
Summary: Lt. Spock is sent to the Vega Colony to recuperate from an injury sustained on Rigel 7. While there he helps a lady in distress and is befriended by her family. (TOS)
Rating: NC-17
Length: ~30k
Comments: Generally I don't read TOS fics simply because I don't know that canon very well and have a certain amount of affection for the new cast. I started Family Matters thinking it was a Reboot but fell in love with it despite certain holes in my knowledge. The connection and tentative love between a young Kirk and Spock was excellently portrayed. Kirk's family were warm characters and added a real sense of place for this fic. It hurt in places but everything comes full circle.

The Flavor of Laughter by brytewolf
Summary: He is Starfleet’s youngest captain. But he is untried, and inexperienced. What kind of captain will James Tiberius Kirk become? A story in three parts. Slow-building, will eventually be K/S.
Rating: PG13
Length: WIP -- 100k so far
Comments:

Home by baby_razzle
Summary: Kirk Prime and Spock Prime reunite. With feeling. This weirds out the newbies.
Rating: G
Length: 800
Comments: Short and funny. Love it.

* Leave No Soul Behind by whochick
Summary: If you're Starfleet, you spend your whole life wishing you never see an EPAS uniform right up until the moment they become your only hope. Whether you're dying a slow, cold death in space, or a long painful one on some godforsaken planet, they're going to come for you. So count your last breaths, son, and hold on tight. They leave no soul behind.
Rating: NC-17
Length: ~240k
Comments: This fic is another behemoth of this fandom, but well worth the effort and time taken to read it. Spock feels the most alien that I've ever come across, the most conflicted and the most human. It's a stunning combination. The pace is fast and heart-stopping, the plot beautifully constructed and James T Kirk kicks ass and takes names. There is nothing I don't love about this fic. Despite how long it is, I have now read it a total of three times. It's just that good.

* The Lotus Eaters by aldora89
Summary: Stranded on the planet Sigma Nox while searching for a missing away team, Spock and Kirk find themselves pitted against a disturbing native life form. With the captain out of commission on a regular basis and Spock struggling to preserve his stoicism, staying alive is difficult enough – but when a slim chance for escape surfaces, their resolve is truly put to the test. Together they must fight for survival in the heart of an alien jungle, and in the process, uncover the mystery of the planet’s past.
Rating: NC-17
Length: ~94k
Comments: Fantastic read; completely enthralling. The alien planet Kirk and Spock are stranded on has such depth, full of character and history -- a beautiful piece of world-building. The K/S is slow building and perfectly rendered. Their personalities shine through, the narrative style changing in each chapter to suit the characteristics of Kirk or Spock.

So Wise We Grow by captainddeastar
Summary: “Commander Spock, we have located your son,” the Vulcan lady on the screen says, which would be great, except Jim can tell by the look on Spock’s face that he’s never heard of this kid before in his life. “If it is expedient, the child will be sent to join you on the Enterprise within the week.”
Rating: R
Length: 81K
Comments: Kid!fic. I love effing love a good kid!fic.

Through Blind Men's Eyes by ladyblahblah

Summary: The obligatory Pon Farr story . . . with a bit of a twist.
Rating: NC-17
Length: ~50k?
Comments: Who doesn't love a little bit of K/S pon farr fic? I think ladyblahblah's fics always so very readable - charming and well written and happy-making. This particular fic is my favourite of hers.

Where There Are No Phones by anowlinsunshine
Summary: This is amnesia!fic, because every author has to do each trope once, right? In which Kirk loses his memory and wonders why nobody has come looking for him.
Rating: PG13
Length: 10k
Comments: I love anowleinsunshine's writing so much. I always know she's going to write something golden and this is no exception. She took an old trope and made it fresh and beautiful. Plus, she quoted Billy Collins in the title. <3

Recs: Supernatural

2011-11-28T20:17:47Z

SUPERNATURAL
Dean/Castiel (mostly)

300 Things by cautionzombies
Summary: Dean's life at twenty-four makes him feel like he's forty--he works two jobs to help pay bills for his house and put his genius little brother through private school, and has spent six years (on and off, let's be honest) working on his mechanical engineering degree at KU. With so much of his life devoted to his family, Dean has little time in his schedule for class and no time for social interaction. Then, while getting his classes together for the fall, he finds himself in a do-or-die situation: He must take his last literature class now, his spring already filled with those left for his major...except that none of the English classes will fit his schedule.
Rating: NC-17
Length: 76.5k
Comments: This was a very emotional read -- enjoyable but draining. I loved the author's ability to write such a realistic relationship between two men who come with emotional baggage. Characterisation is pitch-perfect.

Accidental Gift by alchemyalice
Summary: The problem with angel swords was that humans knew fuck-all about them. Worse, the angels were no better. Meanwhile, some post-apocalyptic cracks in the fabric of reality needed mending.
Rating: PG
Length: 14k
Comments: Sometimes you just come across an author who's writing you click with and you think 'yep, this was brilliant'. Accidental Gift was just so enjoyable to read completely and on the ball.

* The Accompanist by gretazreta
Summary: Dean learned to play the piano at his mother’s knee. Now, fifteen years after her death, his talent for music is a secret he keeps from everybody, especially his father. Stuck in a small town for the rest of the school year, looking after a brother who’s growing apart from him and training for a future of hunting that he’s not sure that he wants, Dean finds an unlikely confidant in an elderly Jewish man who’s haunted by his own secrets. It’s a year of firsts, hunting alone and falling in love, but when a monster from the tragic past starts wreaking havoc on the people of the town, Dean must come to terms with his own fears and desires in order to save the people he cares about the most. Dean/OMC
Rating: R
Length: ~40k
Comments: Never have I loved an OC more or wanted anything to be cannon more than this fic. All the relationships in Dean's life are beautifully portrayed in this heart-breaking fic. Sensitive and introspective, yet sexy and dark, this is a real gem of the fandom.

Asunder by rageprufrock
Summary: Wherefore they are no more twain, but one flesh. What therefore God hath joined together, let not man put asunder. (Matthew 19:6) AU where Dean is a social worker with CPS and Castiel a paediatric surgeon and Sam is getting married to Ruby.
Rating: R
Length: ~24k
Comments: Typical Pru, beautiful and engaging writing.

Convenient Husbands by scaramouche
Summary: "It's only temporary, right?" Dean says. "Just until you're healed up, and then we'll never have to see each other again. So what do you say, Castiel, do you want to marry me or not?"
Rating: NC17
Length: 39k
Comments: Does what it says on the tin, A fun and charming fic worth the read. (I do love me some accidentally/pretend marriage fic.)

* Named by mclachland
Summary: Jesus Christ is dead. Somehow, that isn't the worst part of Dean's week.
Rating: R
Length: ~95k
Comments: Wow, just... wow. This is one of those pitch perfect fics. It literally has everything: the characterisation is perfection, the story is detailed, thoughtfully constructed, surprising and a roller-coaster ride to read. I am rather sad that mclachland doesn't write for the show. Above all Dean's voice is brilliantly portrayed -- his humanity and humour are this fic's tour de fource.

Right Up Over the Wire by liadan14
Summary: When Sam finds out about Dean and Castiel's relationship he's convinced that Dean's possessed/bespelled/being controlled by some supernatural force, and Dean has to come to terms with the fact that yeah, he is actually kinda into guys, before he's able to make Sam believe he's still himself.
Rating: R
Length: ~12k
Comments: A lovely introspective look into Dean's thoughts and feelings, what being 'gay' means to him and Cas's role in his life.

Welcome to Oz by bauble
Summary: Dean wakes up in the cheerfully painted yellow kitchen of a middle class home in Suburbia, USA. There are two things that tip him off to the fact that he’s in a state that ain’t Kansas or reality: one, the fact that he can’t remember how he got to this kitchen or what happened immediately preceding his arrival (such as falling asleep or being hit in the face with a squirt of hallucinogenic demon juice); two, the way everything seems too bright and perfect to be real—from the picture window above the sink to the sliding glass doors that that lead out onto a cozy wood deck. Even the breeze ruffling the crayon blue curtains is flavored with the scent of baked goods.
Rating: NC-17
Length: ~90k
Comments: I think the word 'dark' was invented for this fic. The ending felt like running head-long into a brick wall; shocking and hurt like a bitch. Nihilistic like whoa.

Recs: Merlin

2011-11-27T21:34:19Z

Merlin

Arthur/Merlin

Accidental Memory in the Case of Death by derryere

Summary: Tony O does not befriend losers. Tony O is not gay, not crazy, he is not particularly nice and he is most definitely not royalty. Destiny disagrees.
Rating: NC-17
Length: ~75k
Comments: How could this not be on the list? Only derryere could have the balls to write a reincarnation fic like this, with two OC's who are Merlin and Arthur, yet not. Moving and poignant and grimly beautiful.

Anghiari by onelittlestep
Summary: This is a story about ex-pats living and working in Tuscany, creating an ever-fluctuating community. It's a modern AU.
Rating: R
Length: ~20k?
Comments: The disjointed quietness of this fic really hit me. I love the language of this, the feel, the hurt.

* Be Resigned by frantic_allonsy
Summary: The first time Lt Arthur Pendragon properly met A1C Merlin Emrys, he was doing push-ups on the floor of the Fort Campbell weather station.
Rating: NC-17
Length: ? Not sure full length, but looong.
Comments: The great thing about this is that you can tell frantic_allonsy knows the US armed forces personally, this fic is rife with details that made me salivate and always yearn for more. Wonderful dialogue and character voices for both Merlin and Arthur. Fandom classic. [ETA: link no longer works as author took down her work.]

* From Where I Stand You're In My Sky by paperclipbitch
Summary: AU. Arthur looks away from the terrified, accusing dark eyes of the man on the newspaper, and turns his attention to his breakfast.
Rating: NC-17
Length: ~18k
Comments: paperclipbitch has written several Merlin fics worth reading but for some reason this is the one that really hits the mark for me. It's darker than We're A Storm in Somebody Else's Teacup and that much more heart-breaking and real.

* Gadarene by unpossible
Summary: “You’re the Prince?” Merlin says, eyeing him. He hesitates, then says, defiant, “The Mad Prince of Camelot.”
Arthur doesn’t move. There’s quiet for a long time, then he says it. “I am.”
“You don’t seem mad,” he says.
The smile wells up from somewhere deep, and very sad. “Well, Merlin,” he says, “give me time.”
Rating: NC17
Length: ~77k
Comments: unpossible seems to have come out of nowhere and is writing some amazing Arthur/Merlin fics. This is my particular favourite. It's one of the more beautiful and angsty canon AUs I've read in this fandom. The characters are deftly portrayed, the pacing is perfect and the plot is pacey. The whole fic just screams like a professional novel.

* Gramarye by lisztful
Summary: In the wake of the dragon's escape, Morgana is missing and Uther is running Arthur and his knights ragged with fruitless searching. As the hunt continues, Merlin must come to terms with his growing feelings for Arthur, his discomfort at the way Arthur throws himself into danger in order to prove himself to his father, and his suspicion that Morgause may not be as evil as he'd once thought. Just as things begin to fall into place, a revelation about Gwen's past throws the court into turmoil, causing Uther's rage to spiral out of control. Finally, prompted by the return of Mordred, Merlin and Arthur must choose between Uther's Camelot and the people they love, perhaps including each other.
Rating: NC-17
Length: ~48k
Comments: Possibly my favourite fic to come out of the 2010 Merlin Big Bang. Simply divine.

* In Want of a Wife by syllic
Summary: When Merlin first hears that Arthur has been betrothed, his ribs pull inwards with an odd little hitch, and he only allows himself a second—which he needs in order to coordinate spinning in place without falling on his face—before he’s running to Arthur’s chambers.
Rating: NC-17
Length: ~43k
Comments: syllic always writes canon-verse worth reading and this is one of my favourite portrayals of Arthur. I am a romantic at heart.

Practical Adventures and Auspicious Pursuits by stillane
Summary: It might be good to be the king, but some days it sucks to be the prince.
Rating: PG
Length: ~4k
Comments: Laugh out loud funny.

Seasons by lolafeist
Summary: Arthur and Merlin meet in high school. When they're separated after a magic duel gone wrong, hearts are broken, lots emails are written and a few cupcakes are set on fire. Sometimes it takes a while to figure destiny out.
Rating: NC17
Length: 40k
Comments: I love magical military modern AUs. And this is a doozy. Angst and sex and magic. I literally couldn't ask for more.

The Good Times Are Killing Me by minor_hue
Summary: In which the boys pretend to still be together for Christmas (and there is more than one kind of charade).
Rating: NC-17
Length: ~14k
Comments: A beautiful break-up story with a happy ending - lots of very real heart-ache along the way.

The Student Prince by FayJay
Summary: A Modern day Merlin AU set at the University of St Andrews, featuring teetotal kickboxers, secret wizards, magnificent bodyguards of various genders, irate fairies, imprisoned dragons, crumbling gothic architecture, arrogant princes, adorable engineering students, stolen gold, magical doorways, attempted assassination, drunken students, shaving foam fights, embarrassing mornings after, The Hammer Dance, duty, responsibility, friendship and true love...
Rating: NC17
Length: ~145k
Comments: Lovely writing. Great chemistry between Arthur and Merlin. A true romance.

The Walls Have Ears by definewisdom
Summary: The walls have ears… and mouths. Merlin starts learning things, some of which he really wishes he could unlearn.
Rating: PG-13
Length: ~2k
Comments: One of the first fics I read in this fandom. It's short and intense and I always find myself coming back to it.

Until the Pieces Fit by anon
Summary: When Merlin sees Arthur with another man it sets of a series of events that change both of them.
Rating: NC-17
Length: ~14k
Comments: This fic aches.

Us Two Little Gods by lastling
Summary: What if the legends were simply told by a bard named Merlin about a warrior named Arthur?
Rating: NC-17
Length: ~15k
Comments: Such a unique take on the legend and the BBC adaptation. Wonderful, magical and timeless mix.

Recs: Inception

2011-11-27T21:19:35Z

Inception
Arthur/Eames

A Fool From Any Direction by syllic
Summary: Written for this prompt: "Eames is a knight, and Arthur is a stable boy. Eames brings him little tokens from his quests and Arthur reverently removes his armor and lets Eames press him down sweetly into the hay".
Rating: NC-17
Length: ~21k
Comments: Originally it took quite a bit of talent for me to be particularly interested in reading AUs in this fandom, but luckily for everyone syllic is very talented. I love her charming!Eames so very much.

Amuse-Bouche by bauble
Summary: Eames is a superstar pop singer and provocateur. After saving Eames from a 30-foot-high deflating balloon shaped like an radish, Arthur is hired to be Eames' personal bodyguard for his summer concert tour. In between the sold-out concerts and crazed fans, Arthur discovers not only the real person underneath the zany costumes, but also how to fall in love.
Rating: NC17
Length: ~60k
Comments: This was utterly delightful. The AU world and the ensemble cast was so infinitely likeable and charming and fun to read. Written with a great eye to structure and pacing, this was a wonderful, engaging read.

Can't Get Enough of You (Baby) by Renay
Summary: Eames vanishes from dreamshare and Arthur goes a little crazy looking for him until he stumbles across him -- with a baby.
Rating: R
Length: 22k
Comments: God, I love kid!fic especially ones written so well. Eames is so him and so fatherly and adorable and Arthur's love and angst and finding a family is just delightful. A great read.

Kobayashi Maru by hackthis
Summary: What happened was them. They happened. Or to be a bit more specific, they didn't happen. At least not properly. It's very hard to appreciate what you have if you don't know you have it.
Rating: R
Length: ~8k
Comments: Eight thousand words of pure gold. And hello, the title certainly piqued the interest this little Trek fangirl. As the author put it: "The idea of this story came to me when I was running on the treadmill and watching the Star Trek: Reboot. For the three of you who haven't seen the reboot, the Kobayashi Maru is a no-win situation training test. It's designed to get people accustomed to failure. To being unable to fix something despite their best efforts. Their best intentions. Kirk ends up beating the program by hacking the system and rewriting the test. Being in a relationship is like that: sometimes you gotta do what you gotta do to get what you need."

Pet by ladyvader
Summary: AU - Arthur is in his final year of High School and finds himself entirely too interested in the English teacher.
Rating: NC17
Length: ~100k
Comments: I'm not always comfortable reading about relationships between students and teachers, not while they're still in high school, but ladyvader did an excellent job of writing such a scenario without it feeling... skeevy. I enjoyed the Arthur/Eames dynamic and the internal struggles regarding their ~feelings towards each other. The restraint and eventual conclusion were all immensely satisfying.

* Presque Vu by rageprufrock

Summary: Arthur meets Mal first. He inherits Dom, after. Everything else is on him.
Rating: R
Length: ~70k
Comments: If I had to choose only one Inception fic for my desert island, it would be this one. It's so much more than a love story, there was a depth to it that floored me, moved me and has sneaked it's way into my heart.

Simple Math by foxxcub
Summary: "So," Eames says slowly, leaning back against the school wall as he idly taps his cigarette. "We've got a problem here." or, The Fake Boyfriend High School AU
Rating: R
Length: ~45k
Comments: I have a confession to make. I happen to love Fake Boyfriend/Husbands AUs. This particular fic in the genre is a blast to read. I love all the misunderstandings and the angst and self-doubt that comes with being a teenager in love. (The fic is finished, though the setting on Ao3 says otherwise.)

Too Much Like the World We're Stuck In by anowlinsunshine
Summary: The first thing Eames does when he wakes up on the shore of Limbo is squint a bit at the crumbling city skyline. [Or, the one where Arthur and Eames go to Limbo and Grow as People.]
Rating: R
Length: ~4k
Comments: First fic I read in this fandom. Wasn't entirely sold on Arthur/Eames before but certainly was after. Simply lovely. anowlinsunshine has a wonderful way with words and character emotions.

You're Waiting for a Stranger by mixtapestar
Summary: College AU. Arthur's plans for his life are very detailed and predictable, just the way he likes it... until Eames comes along.
Rating: NC17
Length: ~17k
Comments: There is something very sweet and joyful about this fic. It does exactly as it says on the lable. A very satisfying read.

Wanted: Recs

2011-09-25T00:00:09Z

Hey, Merlin peeps, can I ask a favour?

So, I've been really lax looking through/reading any of the amazing fics from the paperlegends Big Bang this year. D: THERE ARE JUST SO MANY. *_____* I don't know what to do with myself.

Can anyone rec me their favourites of the Merlin BB? Which have you read so far? Tell me where to start. I've only read about... three? I'm not sure because a lot of BBs came out around the same time (obviously) and my brain is starting to fryyyyyy...

So yeah. Please? *flutters eyelashes*

If my eyelashes don't work, how about the unbearable cuteness of a kitten? ARE YOU WEAK YET?

~ Music Friending Meme

2011-08-22T19:35:14Z

Let's just say I like music and I like my friends. Sometimes they are both very persuasive...

PIMP IT!

hear the music: mixtape exchange

2011-08-10T18:35:32Z

Evening all. Just thought I'd share with you my mixes from lemniciate 's mixtape exchange. Remember to head over to her journal to have a look at all the amazing mixes on offer. People will still be posting new ones throughout the week. :)

Enjoy!

Mixtape One: Terminal
For: coyotesuspect .
Prompt: Songs for for travelling, for transitional places like airports and train stations and bus stops, songs for those weird achey, hopeful, excited times when you're not yet where you're going but you're very far from home.
Notes: Such a beautiful prompt and I hope I did it justice. If only one song in this entire mix sums up the prompt (in my opinion) it would be the final track. It's the one I always listen to when I'm in that weird limbo of being neither here nor there. Enjoy.

terminal
noun /ˈtərmənl/
terminals, plural

An end or extremity of something
The end of a railroad or other transport route, or a station at such a point
Extreme and usually beyond cure or alteration

Sigh No More – Mumford and Sons

Sigh no more, no more
One foot in sea and one on shore

10,000 Miles – Mary Chapin Carpenter

Farewell for a while
I’m going away
But I’ll be back

Cello Song – Nick Drake

But while the earth sinks to its grave
You sail to the sky
On the crest of a wave

Run River – Jon Swift

Carry me away
I know I have a home
Somewhere far

Burden of Tomorrow – The Tallest Man on Earth

Oh I was sent to find the lonesome place
Where I was lost but left to trace

The End – Pearl Jam

What were all those plans we made now

Left beside the road?

Behind us in the road

L’envie et le dédain (acoustic) – Tété

Un peu de l’un
Un peu des deux

Bari Improv – Kaki King (August Rush Soundtrack)

[Instrumental]

Big Jet Plane – Angus and Julia Stone

Can I take ya
Take ya higher

Beg, Steal or Borrow – Ray Lamontagne

So your home town's bringing you down

Are you drowning in the small talk

and the chatter

Boats and Trains – Stornoway

Waiting for a train
Going nowhere in a nowhere station

The Cage – Oasis

[Instrumental]

{.zip}

Mixtape Two: The Liberal, Egghead Communist Candidate
For: inocciduous .
Prompt: West Wing - The songs they listened to on the (first) campaign trail.
Notes: This was a stupid amount of fun to make. Had to make sure all songs were from 1998 or earlier. Hence lost of classic rock. Title taken from a West Wing quote.

Taking Care of Business

Bachman-Turner Overdrive

My Generation

The Who

Magic Carpet Ride

Steppenwolf

Highway to Hell

AC/DC

Fly Away

Lenny Kravitz

Going up the Country

Canned Heat

Alright

Supergrass

Everyday is a Winding Road

Sheryl Crow

Come As You Are

Nirvana

The Jackal

Ronny Jordan

Talkin Bout a Revolution

Tracy Chapman

{.zip}

Big Pimpin

2011-07-11T22:03:47Z

ONLY A FEW MORE DAYS TO LEAVE PROMPTS FOR THE MIXEDTAPE EXCHANGE OVER AT lemniciate 's JOURNAL. RUN. DON'T WALK. WALKING IS FOR LOSERS.

Click and have a look. There are some amazing prompts. I am totally excited people. TOTALLY.

cut

2011-06-05T15:38:38Z

Hi all,

Have now done a friends cut, just as I warned the other day. If you can see this post, you weren't cut.

Hope there are no hard feelings, but if you think you were cut by accident or want to have a chat, please do PM me. :)

Kitten cuddles! <33333

My help_japan fic offer

2011-03-14T20:43:22Z

I've never been part of one of these auctions before, but I thought THERE IS A FIRST TIME FOR EVERYTHING.

help_japan - This is my offer.

Also, to all the Merlin fans on my flist, lemniciate has done an amazing list of all the Merlin offers. If you don't want me, there are other people generously offering to write Merlin fics. THIS IS THE LIST OF AWESOME.

Love to you all. <3

Advice: I want some

2011-03-12T16:15:03Z

I'm seriously thinking of buying some kind of e-reader so that I can take books on my holiday without taking books, if you get me. :)

WHAT DO YOU SUGGEST, FLIST?

I think my favourite, just from looking around the internet, is Amazon's Kindle. I was having a play with a Sony e-reader in our office the other day it feels quite heavy and I'm not massively impressed . . . but I'm not sure what I should be looking for.

Help?

Dance: late to the mime party

2011-02-11T23:53:36Z

Second random dance themed post this week. New record . . . ?

Saw this guy on the BBC a few weeks back and coughed up a lung laughing. Turns out he's be around ages doing this awesome interpretive mime dancing to pop songs. WHY DID NOBODY TELL ME THIS GUY EXISTED???????

This is how I first saw him...

... and this is his most famous piece.

I'ma just leave 'em here... *slinks away*

Baking Bonanza

2011-01-14T13:40:12Z

I've decided to host a bake-off-slash-confection-party! I noticed all my darlings over at team_sherlock have quite the sweet tooth. And who doesn't when cookies are involved?! So I thought I'd share a few things I like to bake and get everyone to do the same.

How it works: We all offer over our favourite confectionery recipes, share photos of said delights and comment and drool over everyone's offerings. Simple, yet yummy.

I'll go first...

CARROT CAKE WITH LIME TOPPING

FOR THE CAKE:
2 eggs
100 g (4 oz) light soft brown sugar
75ml (3 fl oz) oil (sunflower, vegetable or corn)
100g (4 oz) self-raising flour, sifted
175g (6 oz) grated carrot
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
50g (2oz) shredded coconut

FOR THE TOPPING:
75g (3 oz) cream cheese
75g (3 oz) butter
50g (2 oz) icing suger
Grated find of 1 lime
Toasted coconut and grated lime to decorate (optional)

Preheat oven to 190C, 375F, Gas Mark 5. Grease and line a 900g (2lb) loaf tin or 17.5cm (7in) round tin. (Or whatever the hell you can find that's small and meant for baking...)
Beat eggs and sugar till very creamy. Add oil and beat HARD. Fold in the remaining ingredients and pour into the greased tin/whatever. Smooth over top, then slightly hollow our the middle. (Or don't. I never remember to do that bit and icing goes everywhere. /bad advice) Bake for 30-40 mins until well risen and a skewer/toothpick comes out clean. Remove from oven and turn over onto a rack to cool.

((Er. I hope yours looks better? I asked my BFF why there was a big ass chunk out of our cake and suggested she'd maybe eaten some and she told me to fuck off . Apparently it came out of the tin like this.))

To make the topping, beat the the ingredients together until creamy. Grate the zest of one lime into the mix.

Spread over the top of the cake.

Or, you know, everywhere, so that it looks like a blob rather than a cake. (Also, bad light was bad.) Sprinkle some more shredded coconut over the top to finish.

So... not very pretty, but tastes AWESOME.

Okay everyone. LET'S HAVE IT. I NEED SOME SWEETS IN MY LIFE.

READY? STEADY... BAKE!