Truth and Justice, by JC Roberts

http://www.fanfiction.net/s/3522394/1/Truth_and_Justice

I learned of this fic because it was mentioned in an article in Penthouse about Batman. It was all about his many ships (for example, Catwoman, Wonder Woman, and now Superwoman) and it was called Holy Hookup, Batman! To my pleasure, in this fic, I stumbled upon a story that goes way beyond hookups and relationship drama. Truth and Justice is so much more.

A new generation of superheroes have joined the Justice League. Amongst them is Superwoman/Martha Kent, the daughter of Superman and Lois Lane. She has come to Gotham to work as a doctor at Arkham Asylum, as part of a 3-year psychiatric fellowship. But Gotham is Batman's city. The tension between these two is delicious.

Working alongside Batman, Superman, The Flash, and Arsenal (Roy Harper), this new crop of heroes face, as the author of the fic describes it, "an ongoing barrage of supervillains, personal struggles, the difficulty of stepping out of a parent’s shadow, unexpected romance, redemption and the definition of heroism."

Some standout features of this fic: 

There are quite a few characters in this story and the character development creates a depth that makes each one memorable. And there is such richness in their relationships with one another. The character of Martha Kent is sublime and I love following the ups and downs of her relationship with Bruce Wayne. Also, I was bowled over by how vivid and well done the team action sequences are! The drama is truly exciting. And I really enjoyed the balance between the broad action and the intimate moments where we see these heroes as people.

My love for this fic is so huge that it's hard not to go on and on about it.

Truth and Justice has two sequels, each story spanning a year of Martha's fellowship. I would start with the first one, and if you're like me, you will be so drawn in that you will be thirsty for the sequels.

Court Martial, by Charlene Edwards

Court Martial on FF.net

It's one thing to be tried for a murder you committed. This fic raises the question in the superhero community - are you responsible when you don't prevent a murder from happening?

Dick Grayson/Nightwing is a broken man. In the comic, Nightwing #93, it gets to the point where he's been broken physically, emotionally and psychologically by the torment of the villain Blockbuster. In a climactic moment of their fight, the assassin Tarantula has Blockbuster in her sights. Instead of preventing the crime, Nightwing walks out of the way, causing Blockbuster to get shot and killed. What happens next to Dick is one of the most controversial moments in DC comics.

The story of Court Martial picks up following these events when, in a moment of broken self-loathing, Nightwing calls Superman and asks him to turn him in for the murder of Blockbuster. 

Here's the official description: Blockbuster was murdered ... and Nightwing was "involved". What happens when the superhero community finds out.

There's intrigue and investigation as the Batfamily (and extended Batfamily) try to get to the bottom of Tarantula's involvement. And ultimately, there's the elaborate task that has fallen on the Justice League: trying Nightwing for Blockbuster's murder. Even though Nightwing didn't pull the trigger, is he still responsible? It's a trial frought with controversy that's causing everyone in the League to choose sides. 

I was RIVETED by this fic. I read on the elliptical and the other day I spent an extra 45 minutes huffing and puffing because I couldn't stop reading this story.

Even if you've never read a Nightwing comic you will enjoy this story. 

If you have any love at all for the Justice League, you will LOVE this fic. Everyone is all up in this story: Batman, Wonder Woman, Superman, Green Lantern, Flash, Roy Harper, Barbara Gordon, Catwoman, just to name a few.

And if you are interested in the father-son dynamic between Bruce Wayne/Batman and Dick Grayson/Nightwing/former-Robin, this is a must-read. 

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Tempt My Tongue, by Savage7289

LINK to Tempt My Tongue

Official Description: Bloodthirsty vampire Edward Cullen has but a single goal in his pointless existence – lose his virginity with a human. He will stop at nothing to entice the unusual girl he saves in the street, but can he claim her body without killing her? AU, EPOV, M Twilight - Rated: M - English - Angst/Drama - Chapters: 10 - Words: 50,674 - Reviews: 2520 - Updated: 4-18-12 - Published: 10-1-11 - Complete

I read Tempt My Tongue in one night, devouring chapter after chapter. Savage likes to get inside the head of a dark Edward and unabashedly let him reveal some of his psycho, stalker, monster tendencies. And this Edward's got some tendencies. This Edward has embraced his existence as a human blood-drinking vampire. As this story starts out, it delves into the lifestyle of a vampire - the hunt for prey and the mindset of not valuing human life. 

Edward is on a quest to find a girl he can lose his virginity to by fucking and killing her at the same time -- a feat he has been unable to accomplish after years of trying (he always ends up killing them before it gets that far).

Edward is exciting and unpredictable because he doesn't see any point in fighting against his monster nature. Being EPOV, Bella plays little role in this story beyond that of the object of Edward's obsession. He does insane and desperate things just to be near her and protect her.  As he starts acting a bit insane when it comes to Bella, he has no desire to fight that inclination. I really enjoyed reading this story and trying to figure out how much of that monster he'll allow himself to be.

Savage's trademark twists and turns keep you guessing the entire story. Lots of surprises. There's so much more I want to kvell about but I'll refrain so you can experience the fun of discovery that seems to characterize the Savage stories I've read. For those thinking Tempt My Tongue sounds too much like Hide and Drink, I'd like to mention that this is a totally different Edward. This story also differs in playing closer to canon and being a tighter 10 chapters long. 

If you like a darker Edward, check out Tempt My Tongue.

Note: There's a disclaimer at the top of the story that you should read regarding Savage's no-holds-barred approach to fic. It's not for everybody.

Masen Days by purelyamuse

Description: 3rd Place Winner in the Boys on Boards contest! Now an EXPANDED multi-chap! Bella meets Masen at the local skate park. He's a quiet, mysterious loner. She wants to help him, love him even. Will he let her? Or will he skate away like he always does? AH

Twilight - Rated: M - English - Romance/Angst - Chapters: 6 - Words: 11,735 - Reviews: 419 - Updated: 9-19-11 - Published: 8-16-11 - Edward & Bella

It's been about 6 months since I've started reading a new fic.  And wouldn't you know, it's purelyamuse who drags me back into the fold, kicking and screaming.

She says that I helped push her to write her first Edward/Bella, being the citizen of Switzerland that she is. Having started her current WIP, I am thrilled to have had any hand at all in her writing it. I started reading Masen Days because I wanted to support purely for the fic's readalong, but now I'm jonesing for my next hit. 

I thought I wasn't going to be able to get into Twific anymore because I had gotten too jaded and eye-rolly regarding character cliches, misunderstood Edwards, and poorly developed Bellas. But given purely's taste in fic, I should've known she would provide something delicious. Here's why you should read it:

SIMPLICITY IN STORYTELLING She doesn't try to pretend to offer the be-all-end-all telling of an epic tale. She gives swift glimpses into the interactions between Masen and Bella, which are stylistically so appropriate, given the sparseness of their communication. And purely uses this subtleness to showcase the heart that exists in the smallest of gestures. Also because of this, her story doesn't get weighed down by the pull of unnecessary description. She's a no-wank kind of a writer. And that's EXACTLY what the doctor ordered.

SWEETNESS & NON-EXPLOITATIVE ANGST I love how purely's fic is so very much in line with the kinds of fic she likes to read. There is so much sweetness in her simplicity. And she's able to incorporate the angst of Masen's family life in a way that seems more like an extension of a character's background/experience, as opposed to a lot of fic, where angst is used as an exploitative means to draw in a reader who seeks resolution. The sweetness in the story offsets the underlying sadness in a way that's very true to the Masen character. And I continue to read, not because I need some kind of answer to the mystery, but because I'm addicted to the interactions between Masen and Bella. It'll be nice to see more of the onion as the story unfolds, but I'm in no rush.

I LOVES ME SOME UST I expected a bit of innocence in her storytelling just because I know she likes the HS negotiations of first love in the fic she reads. I was pleased to find it's a realistic portrayal that I could connect with -- and HS me was no innocent. We don't know how virginal Bella is and we know very little about Masen's experience, but these things don't seem relevant in the world of the little moments they share. Bella's got the internal monologue of a girl who definitely feels a hunger but won't act on her ravenous potential because she respects the personality and needs of the other person too much to risk defiling their relationship by jumping too soon. What results is a fantastic build of UST that seems true to their personalities. I grow even fonder of Masen when I see him reaching out for what seems more like a human connection than an amorous one.

IT'S A FUN, QUICK READ I thoroughly enjoyed every heart-happy chapter thus far! I'm in love with these characters and can't wait to see where it goes.

I thought I'd read her story out of politeness but her writing and the charm of her characters won me over on their own merit.

And finally, she's working this like a pro. First of all SHE UPDATES REGULARLY. Every Monday. She also offers her readers outtakes and glimpses into Masen's mind via little journal entries on her blog. Such brilliance in providing her readers some nosh in between each meal, to satisfy the cravings.

Confessions of a Difficult Woman by einfach mich

http://www.fanfiction.net/s/5341339/1/Confessions_of_a_Difficult_Woman

Official Description: Leah Clearwater is not the kind of girl that goes for guys like Edward Cullen. In fact, she thinks he's an asshole and Edward's made it clear he hates her too. One drunken night changes everything. AU AH For the Parkaward Contest

This is Twific storytelling at its finest. I'm super hesitant to use a phrase like that because it sounds like hyperbole. But for me, this story hits it on every level that I'm looking for.

• You've got the insane physical attraction, and the ensuing ridiculous hotness, but you've got that tension being shared by a Leah and an Edward who are both flawed and complex. And that hotness is situated within a story that is rich with backstory and is being artfully revealed layer by layer. 
• And if you're hesitant to try something with multiple POVs (like I usually am), einfach mich surprised the hell out of me with how purposeful her choices are in how she uses the POVs to tell the story. Sometimes to set up mystery, sometimes to setup the comedy in a situation. 
• And please, if all that doesn't do it for you, there are 2 things that Leah brings to the table here: a snarky attitude that takes the piss out of any situation, and a fuckhotness about her that cannot be denied. Least of all by Edward.  

Not sure about the Leah/Edward thing? Read this:

Getting Bored with Fic? Leah Will Save Us All

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The Cullen Campaign, by belladonna1472

http://www.fanfiction.net/s/5853742/1/The_Cullen_Campaign

Official Description: Edward Cullen and Isabella Swan both have parents who are powerful on Capitol Hill. Problem is, their families are political enemies. What happens when Democrat!Edward and Republican!Bella bump into each other at Union Station in D.C.? AU/AH. ExB  WIP

I just joined this party. It's 11 Chapters in and I'm frickin hooked. Let me tell you why...

This story has the same qualities that I look for in a man: smart-as-hell and hot-as-fuck.

belladonna1472's Edward is to die for. I mean seriously. I'm about to show my hand, but he is a Cullen Democrat sculpted in the likeness of JohnFKennedyJr. I swoon just thinking about him. I've only started reading this story a couple days ago and I've already had a crazy dream involving this Edward, myself, and a Congressional podium. Too much information? And Isabella is no slouch. She is as inhumanly smart as Edward and not afraid to assert herself.

I keep rec'ing this to people describing it as West Wing meets Romeo&Juliet.

The Romeo&Juliet-factor gives the story this great forbidden love element that makes the sexual tension even hotter and gives the lemons a delicious "We shouldn't be doing this!" naughtiness.

And when I say this story reminds me of  West Wing, I mean that it uses Washington and politics as a rich landscape in which to tell a story while including details about the process and the issues that make it almost educational. But not in a "Sit down and do your homework!" kind of way. More like a "Huh, that's interesting! I didn't know that." kind of way.

Edward and Bella come from rival political dynasties. I am a lover (and hater) of politics and for me, there is something romantic about the idea of people who wield power in America in the interest of the good of the people. In real life it never ends up like that as power corrupts and self-interest prevails. But so far in the TCC world, our players are well meaning. And I enjoy that.

Bright Like the Sun by Dryler

http://www.fanfiction.net/s/4812429/1/Bright_Like_the_Sun
Official Description: Edward/Bella - WIP, AU, AH, OOC. When Bella goes to live with her father in Forks, things go much better than she expected. At least until a slick parking lot, a careening van, a broken arm, and her weird lab partner from biology get in the way...   WIP   

I LOVE THIS FIC!!!! It's all about the banter. Bright Like the Sun = sheer comedy genius.

Bella has got some great observations as a newcomer to Forks. Being inside her head is a fun place to be. And she brings out the character hidden inside a previously isolated Edward. And who knew -- he is funny as hell! I like this Bella and Edward A LOT.

It's an enjoyable read but it's around Chap 6 when it breaks out and this fic starts showing its true colors. We get to see more of Edward/SWCIFD and even better, we start seeing him and Bella interacting. And the Best Banter in a Comedy award goes to.... you guessed it. Bright Like the Sun by Dryler.

And some unlikely members of the supporting cast standout in this one for being uniquely funny: Charlie and Carlisle. Normally they both come off as dry and boringly canon. The "straight man" to everyone else's hijinx. Dryler actually gives them personalities. Personalities that I enjoy reading. And Carlisle in pajama pants FTW.

My only complaint... Dryler needs to be updating this on the regular. Please and thank you.
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Daniel Gale: Cumming to America by danielgaleh00rs

Daniel Gale is a character played by Robert Pattinson in the movie The Bad Mother's Handbook.

Annette and Saewood are the danielgaleh00rs.

The danielgaleh00rs have decided that there needs to be copious amounts of fanfiction dedicated to this deliciously adorkable character.

They have written Daniel Gale: Cumming to America.

This fic is HYSTERICAL! I find myself laughing out loud every chapter. Sweet, innocent Daniel encounters the hormone & alcohol fueled life of college in America. Luckily he has Emmett, the best roommate ever, to show him the ropes. And we learn that Daniel likes the ladies with a bit 'o junk in the trunk, which I gotta say, makes him all the more appealing :)

The danielgaleh00rs somehow bring the sweet and the pervy at the same time. A tremendously fun combo. Borderline crackfic, but in the very best way!

The blog they have created to support this story is GENIUS. It has Daniel's Scrapbook of his adventures in America and a section called Asssk Daniel where readers can submit questions for Daniel to answer. Totally creative and I'm crushing hard on these girls.

How to Save a Life, by unholy.obsession

http://www.fanfiction.net/s/5454169/1/
Official Description: Bella, Edward, Alice & crew. What's going on with Bella's new best friend's older brother, Edward? What exactly happened in his past that has turned the former golden boy into a shadow of himself?    WIP 

This fic was recc'd by DesiEnM on Twitter. It was slow going for the first 3 chapters, I thought it was just another troubled Edward fic. Then BAM, I was sucked in by Edward and Bella's discussion of Heathcliff from Wuthering Heights.

The UST has a deliciously drawn out build because Edward is so focused on his own pain and angst. Bella is so sympathetic and really seems to know how to deal with Edward. And I love how once their connection is established, Bella doesn't take his shit. Will it work out between them? Will we get some Bella-Torturedward lemons? Will Edward find a way to get that T.D. (Tanya Denalia) tatt removed?


BELOW ARE MY REVIEWS AND THE AUTHOR'S REVIEW REPLIES. AKA SPOILERVILLE, USA. If you haven't read the story yet, you might want to avoid.

These are some of my favorite reviews I've written, if only because they are pure emotional reaction. Fer fuck's sake chapter 17.  Holy hell. Boiler Room... I want to go to there. Oh, and chapter 21, a review titled "the greatest angst of all..." where I attempted to work through the total heartfail that was chapter 21.

Review of Chap 4:
Edward as Heathcliff. Brilliant.
Such an interesting insight

"...you watch someone behave a certain way and think it's just that, a behavior...when do you start realizing it's not, that it's an actual pattern, and it's not someone acting a certain way, but it's someone, some thing, that they've actually become?"

I wonder if Edward was relating himself to what Bella was saying. If he was defending Heathcliff's intentions because Edward feels his own intentions are good enough to redeem him, despite his own apathetic behavior. We shall see...

Review of Chap 17:
Um, boiler room? up against a huge vibrating machine? sweaty, insatiable Edward? HOTNESS. gah! Knee quaking, heart pumping hotness.

Even just a sweaty Edward with his tshirt riding up would have sufficed. But in the boiler room up against vibratey machines? A bounty of riches. I want to go to there.

But seriously, Rosalie is turning out to be a great friend. I usually HATE Rosalie, but you've actually made her quite likable without sacrificing the steely exterior she is known for. She seems more human in this story. Actually capable of compassion.

And she makes a solid point that I hope Bella takes to heart -- he is using her as a distraction or substitute for whatever high he is looking for. Bella does seem to be a booty call. She TOTALLY deserves more than this Edward is giving her. Bastardface better clean up his act!

unholy.obsession's Chap 17 Review Reply:
Normally hearing my boy called Bastardface might make me cry.  But you called
the boiler room a freakin' bounty of riches.  So I must love you.  :)

Review of Chap 18:
That was the saddest rounding of 2nd base ever. Edward's all disconnected and Bella's too inexperienced to know she deserves better than frozen fingers being rammed into one's most holiest of holies.

In order to regain my love for Edward, I must get the following off my chest:

Desperate "I need you so much that I've got to have you now" action is damn hot. But it's got to be balanced out with the finesse and skills of a considerate lover. (I'm looking at you, Edward).

Edward might not be capable of being the perfect boyfriend right now, but he can at least show the love by being there for her in the moment while they are gettin down. Cm'on Edward! At least show the lady a good time!

Like Bella, I am patient and willing to sit tight while E sorts out his shit. But dude best start showing some humanity where young Bella is concerned! Jus saying

unholy.obsession, as always, I am in love with you and you are killing it with this story. The only reason I can get so belidge about your characters is because you have drawn me in so much that I am completely invested.
much love, althea

Review of Chap 20:
Check out the balls on our girl Bella! I'm pretty impressed - she just went for it.

The absolute hottest part was your description of his response. The noises and writhing that she elicited from him...m. Makes me hot just thinking about it. But seriously, I really enjoyed your portrayal of him during this encounter - so gentle and unassuming. Then, once Bella gave him the green light, and once Bella started taking her own initiative, E was all raw, unashamed response. I dug it.

Great line:
"Edward was forcing something, for some reason I didn't understand fully, and I instantly knew that no good could come from it—from exerting this type of force when contents were already under such extreme pressure."

Also, I love the little baby steps our Edward is taking. This micro progression is keeping your story very real. This I dig as well.

Much love, Althea


unholy.obsession's Chap 20 Review Reply:
hahahaha, I'm kind of getting hot and bothered reading your review!  I love
how you described Edward here!



Review of Chap 21:
(I shall title this review "the greatest angst of all...")


Wow. I need someone to hold me. "I'm sorry" that sounds like "goodbye" breaks my heart. I'm going to attempt to work through this by revisiting the moments in the chapter that made me happy.  


So, I thought the chapter as a whole was really well written - the way you set up the angst from the beginning built a tension throughout the chap that really gave weight to the climactic sadness of Bella losing her virginity to Edward in a fit of desperate and joyless sex. (And I had thought the under-the-bleachers, saddest-rounding-of-second-base was rough!) And then the denouement of ending the chapter with her waking up alone made her emptiness translate into the reader's emptiness. (Hmmm. So far, I'm not so effective in focusing on the happy)  


And, even though there was the lingering angst of Bella's dread throughout the chapter, I definitely found happiness in the obvious care you took in crafting this puppy. (OK, starting to feel a little better. I'm sure you realize by now, unholy.obs, this review is all about me. Me conquering the angst and finding the happy. Please excuse.)  


It also made me happy to see Edward's obvious effort. His desire to be something more for Bella. And even in the face of Bella's doubt, it was still important enough to him to really try to "give her something normal." (Yes, here we go, I'm starting to feel the happy) This is the Edward we've all been hoping to see! I didn't know if he had the capacity, but he proved me wrong. Even if Bella was right - that he was misguided in thinking the dance would solve all problems - he still cared enough to try! That gesture is such progress for Edward! (OK, now I'm smiling. This is good.)  


Oh, and the coupon. The coupon! How adorable was Alice in whipping out her trump card?! And how adorable is Bella for knowing what a great gift that would be for Alice. That made me smile. (Now we're cooking)  


And the crown jewel of happy in this chapter? Ms. unholiest of obsessions. It's like you knew the perfect way to restore my happiness. You invoked my happy place -- the boiler room.  


Rose: "Are you planning to live in your little boiler-room-universe forever?"  


Yes please. I'd like to sign up for a one-way ticket to said boiler-room-universe. I'd like to plant a flag and declare my residence in the aforementioned boiler-room-universe. I'd be happy to share this residence with huge vibratey machines and hot, sweaty man-gods. I might even run for office to become the President of the greatest universe in the entire galaxy - the boiler-room-universe. Go ahead, judge me, but I'm pretty sure I'm right about this.  


And... I'm good. Angst officially resolved. Thanks and seeya next chapter :) Love, Althea



unholy.obsession's Chap 21 Review Reply:
I LOVE your approach to this!  And now, hahaha, my mind is in the boiler room too...it's a great place to be.  :)


Review of Chap 24:
NGL
For almost the whole second half of this chapter I was cringing and shouting "Nooooo" and "DON'T DO IT, BELLA!"

But thank goodness, I had faith in you, unholy.obs, and I soldiered on. You delivered with your big reveal of Bella's intentions and reasoning. Yes, she showed quite a bit of crazy by going into his room (ahem, stalker) but the payoff was huge.

AND there was something so deliciously rewarding when he tried to console her at the end and she was all "Don't touch me" -- it redeemed Bella by demonstrating she wasn't confronting him in order to win him back. Once again she proves she is genuinely willing to sacrifice her happiness for him.

AND it makes her cafeteria outburst about Edward taking her virginity and then dumping her SO MUCH MORE AWESOME because it demonstrates that she is flawed, and not just some martyr/saint willing to take on Edward's pain. Bella can bring the bitter, like any other angsty teenage girl.

Such a crucial chapter. Well done, bb!
Lots of love, Althea


Review of HtSaL outtake, Miss Mad World:
I am so in love with Hole's Live Thru This. The various songs on that album encapsulate everything you were trying to portray so aptly. Great call with the reference! God you reminded me how raw and brilliant Courtney Love was with that album.

So interesting to see Tanya from Tanya's POV. Man, do I hope Edward never reads some of that stuff!

Review of Chap 25:

My heart is breaking for Bella. How much more sh|t can one girl take? Srsly - catatonic might be a welcome escape for her at this point.

And a cliffie? Gah!
you. are. killing. me.

In a deliciously angsty way, yes. But killing me nonetheless ;)
Thanks for another great chapter!

Review of Chap 27:

What a great chapter!

I loved how Renee was brought into the story in such a purposeful way. You created this opportunity for them to work on their conflict without forcing the issue, letting Bella sort it out in a realistically unresolved fashion. It was truly heartwarming to see Bella recognize a role her mother can actually play in her recovery... as confidant.

Even if her mom's 'fairy tale' advice might be a little questionable:
//"You don't have to trust your brain. Your heart will draw the line for you. Eventually. Even if your head still doesn't know how to...sometimes, our feelings betray our best judgment regardless. And sometimes that's the best thing that can happen."// uhh, yeah. And sometimes that's the absolute worst thing that could happen. Essentially, she's saying, follow your heart and disregard any instincts for self preservation.

I love Bella's response: //"That's very poetic. And entirely useless."//

Following your heart instead of your brain... It might have worked for canon-Bella's HEA, to turn down what she knows is good for her (Jacob), in order to follow her feelings and run back into the arms of someone who has hurt her (Edward). But in the AH world of HtSaL, I like how you've made a case for why Bella wouldn't just run back into Edward's arms. How your Bella is smart enough to consider all the real life issues that plagued their relationship and the pain he caused her.

Granted, in that deliberation, I know what side I hope she ends up on! If Edward can continue to demonstrate he has changed then maybe these crazy kids can nab their HEA afterall.
Best, Althea

Review of Chap 32:
Holy sh|t, unholy_obs. Way to bring it home, sister!! This was the perfect ending. Fahque expectations. You nailed this sucker.

Thank you so much for all of the heart you put into this story. I have truly enjoyed being along for the journey. All the best to you! Lots of love, Althea xoxo

p.s. I miss HtSaL already!


completed 4/13/10
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Master of the Universe by Snowqueens Icedragon (Icy)

available HERE

Official Description: Bella Swan is drafted in to interview the reclusive enigmatic Edward Cullen, multi-millionaire CEO of his company. It's an encounter that will change her life irrevocably, leading her to the darkest realms of desire. MA Adult Themes AH AU  WIP

Holy shit. I am so in love with this story. In fact, I am so in love with this story that I plowed through the 54 available chapters over the span of 2 days, then immediately RE-READ all 54 of those chapters within a day.


So, I had been hearing all about this MotU fic all over twitter. Everyone was freaking out over the latest update. Someone tweeted to a friend something like, "Come hold me and bring the kleenex." I had no idea what to expect, wasn't particularly in the mood for angst, but for some reason, started this story anyway. Luckily angst didn't really kick in until chapters were in the 50s.


In the beginning of this fic, I wasn't buying what Icy was selling. Innocent, virginal Bella being corrupted by a clearly troubled yet powerful Edward. I was disturbed by the idea that this Bella's experience with men would be entirely shaped by this dude's fucked up perspective and crazy sub training. I was into tara sue me's The Submissive/The Dominant because Bella was not only into that lifestyle, but actively sought it out. The Bella in MotU has NO CLUE what she's getting herself into beyond the feelings she feels for Edward. It felt like Edward was being skeezy and irresponsible and purely selfish.


But then I got to know this Bella a bit better. This Bella rocks. She is aware of what she wants and what she needs - more. And although she's hesitant at first to articulate this to Edward, she is still holding strong to that conviction, being wary and thoughtful when it comes to his proposals. She is aware that by trying to be what he needs her to be, she would be giving up part of who she is, and she is hesitant to sacrifice that entirely for him. But she shows maturity in recognizing that there needs to be a give and take in the relationship and tries to remain open to what he needs.


As we learn more about Edward, we realize why he feels this Dom/sub power dynamic is the only way he knows how to be in a relationship. Where his need to control comes from. His need to be the master of his universe. And what's so cool about this Bella - in being herself, and exerting her individuality and her needs, and not just automatically giving Edward what he wants (which clearly he is used to getting), she opens his eyes to the possibility of more. She is funny and spirited, and brings these out in Edward - which I think we all can agree he desperately needs. It becomes clear that maybe Edward doesn't necessarily see what is best for himself because he is so used to being in charge and calling the shots.


I am currently refreshing my yahoo every 5 minutes, hoping for the next chapter to suddenly materialize in my inbox. What is going to happen?? Can they reconcile their different needs? Can Edward open his fucking eyes and see that he doesn't need that control shit because it's Bella that makes him happy the way she is? That he can give up control sometimes and still be happy? That he can play with Bella but that it's not OK to want to hurt her? And can Bella meet that Mrs. Robinson lady who corrupted Edward at age 15 and deliver a smackdown on her disgusting ass?


There have been fics that I've read where I've craved an update, but never like this! I can't tell if it's because the story is so fucking good, or if it's because I have joined the story right in the middle of the height of its angst and I NEED RESOLUTION IMMEDIATELY!!! Either way, I hope Chapter 55 goes up today. Thank you and come again.
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The Caged Bird, by Kristen Nicole

http://www.fanfiction.net/s/5124537/27/The_Caged_Bird
Official Description: All Human AU – Shy Bella Swan lives with her religiously zealous mother, Renée. When she has a chance meeting with town hellion Edward, Bella begins to realize that perhaps the sheltered life she’s been leading isn’t so much a comfort as it a cage.


With a wretchedly oppressive uber-Christian upbringing, this poor sweet Bella is adorably naive. Some dark part of me is really enjoying Edward's corruptive influence way too much. Her wide-eyed innocence is bound to reform his juvenile delinquent ways. And the truth is that she wants to explore her most human of human instincts and dabble in the naughtiness of teen lust. He is just happy to assist in this path. And I, as reader, am more than happy to bear witness. Geez, that makes me feel dirty.

Bella is so innocent - it's a trip to vicariously experience these inklings of first lust again. And connecting with a boy through a song...GAH! It makes me want to be in high school again. Wow, that might be the first time I've ever felt the desire to relive that tortuous time. I found myself excited to see what happens next between Ms. Innocent Beauty and her hot Doc Martin-clad Juvi Delinquent Beast! 

I was taken by a poem snippet by Isobel Thrilling included at the beginning of chapter 9. I googled her and found surprisingly little. I did run across a fabulous site called letterstocrushes.com where this poem was quoted. Super cute site, too.

In the words of Isobel Thrilling, “I don’t just want your heart. I want your flesh, your skin and blood and bones, your voice, your thoughts, your pulse —and most of all, your fingerprints, everywhere.”

For some reason the Thrilling poem reminds me of this line from a Beck song "I'll leave graffiti where you've never been kissed."

It's a bit difficult for me to relate to the ridiculous Christian-ness. I did see this episode of Wife-Swap, though, where one of the wives was taken out of her Christian bubble and placed with a family of "heathens" and the presence of the devil made her wretch all over their backyard. Prior to that I didn't know real people like that existed. Oh, besides that documentary Jesus Camp, which was so disturbing that I've blocked it out, along with any memory of that subculture of crazy-scary Christians. I'm Jewish so the whole 'We're building an army for Jesus' thing is a little unsettling.

In The Caged Bird, I do enjoy the pointed hypocrisy of the Christian children who enjoy inflicting suffering. And the crazy judgemental nature of a fundamental Christian who praises an all-loving Jesus. I never understood that, so I enjoy seeing it acknowledged by others.

And check out this beautiful image. I believe it was created by one of her readers. (?)

University of Edward Masen, by Sebastien Robichaud

http://www.fanfiction.net/s/5390119/1/The_University_of_Edward_Masen
Official Description: Edward Masen is the selfish and brooding university professor; Bella Swan is his shy, but determined graduate student. Appearances can be deceiving. Have their paths crossed before? Rated M for good reason, all human, canon pairings, AU, OOC, ExB


This is a really original story - definitely not your typical student-teacher relationship! This Edward is a total asshole. Cold and tyrannical. But as we learn about their history, the richer this character becomes. He's more than just Prickward, there's a reason behind his iciness: he only got a taste of his Beatrice and has lost all hope that he will ever find her again.

This story is chock full of heady goodness. The literary references to Dante's Inferno challenge me to dig deeper and make me want to learn more about this story within the story.
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Bare, by stella luna sky

http://www.fanfiction.net/s/5115281/1/Bare
Official Description: Bella Swan, who knows she is not beautiful, writes in a notebook that sometimes makes her feel that way. Edward Cullen, who paints beautiful things, meets a girl who makes him change his colors. AU/AH, rated for several splashes of lemon. 


Gah! Love this story.

I'm totally into this high school fic, for several reasons. I love how Bella isn't portrayed as an immediately striking beauty, and I enjoy watching her work through her insecurities. I also LOVE me a troubled artist Edward, who expresses himself best through his art. And, similar to what I loved about Tropic of Virgo, I LOVE how the characters are able to connect and communicate through their shared creative expression. In this story it's a notebook that they pass back and forth to each other. I almost want to go back and reread their journey from the beginning because of the innocence of their growing relationship. I'm a total sap like that.


FULL ON REVIEW STILL TO COME

The Blessing and the Curse, by The Black Arrow

http://www.fanfiction.net/s/5100876/15/The_Blessing_and_the_Curse

FULL REVIEW STILL TO COME

This is quite an original story with fascinating characters and unbelievably hot UST!

I had seen the story description and not been compelled to check it out, but when Kiya mentioned it in an interview as one of her absolute faves, I checked it out. I am SO happy I did! This story is amazingly compelling, with a dark dark Edward who seems almost unredeemable in his selfish and dark manipulation of Bella. This is the first story I've read where Edward purposefully uses his mindreading gift as a direct means of getting what he wants. And what he wants being Bella. The story is now at a fascinating place and I wonder what will happen with Bella's fiance Mike, and how B & E will move forward, especially after the loss of Esme.

And god bless The Black Arrow for Chapter 15. See below for my Golden Lemon nom for best "Yes! They finally did it!"

My Reviews:



Ch 8  (11/24/09)

I have been lovin on this story! I am fascinated by this seemingly nefarious Edward. Can't wait to see what happens.

I love how you write your Bella, too. She falls prey to her weaknesses (who wouldn't with a predatorial Edward who is dripping with f*ckhotness) but always maintains an inner sense of strength and conflictedness.

Thanks so much for sharing your story!

Much love, Althea

PM to The Black Arrow re: Golden Lemon Nom
Hi! I'm one of the people who nominated you for the "YES! They Finally Did It" category over at the Golden Lemon awards. Why? (hold onto your bootstraps, sister. I'm about to unabashedly fangirl yer ass) Because B & E finally getting together in TBTC is perhaps the hottest lemon in all of fic-land. It works on so many levels: the emotional tenderness of her seeing him in a different way, the heightened emotion of the situation (reuniting after so many years, Esme being sick, etc.), the electricity that exists between the two of them, the straightup fuckhotness of your words, the power exchange that goes on between them... I hope you win - I know I'll be voting for you! Much love, Althea (AltheaJams on twitter)


The Black Arrow's Reply to my PM
Oh! I heart you so much! (I'm fangirling on YOU). What an awesome PM to get. Thank you!!

I'm so glad that the lemon worked for you. It was the hardest chapter to write; I had no interest in writing anything that took the story down into pure p/rnographic smut. The moment had to be something HIGHER, something bigger than themselves. It's a tall order, writing the eventual consummation of a lifetime of burning passion and destiny. It took about four solid, all consuming weeks to write, from memory, including a writer's retreat to the
seaside with my beta bookbag. I remember actually getting drunk and lying on my back with my eyes closed dreamily typing. No doubt most of it was dismissed as drivel in the morning... Ha!

Thank you so much for nominating me, I appreciate it so much. Hit me up on Twitter some time, it makes me squee, though I am so totally dorky and unoriginal in 140 characters.

Much love,

Sally


Ch 13  (2/7/10)
This chapter was brilliant, as are all of your chapters. The wait for an update is long, but the payoff is so so worth it. It comes across that you are careful and deliberate in crafting your story. Your sentences flow like silk and the pictures you paint are vivid. I love how you use the characters' history to draw so much intensity to the moment. And these characters are fascinating. With every chapter, more and more depth is revealed.

I thought I 'got' Rosalie, but now there's so much more I want to understand about her. How can she not see the threat that Edward poses to Bella? Doesn't Rose see that he will consume her?

And Michael, who I so *want* to hate. But you won't let us just dismiss him as too safe and bland and therefore 'the bad choice' for Bella. Because Edward is dangerously wrong for her as well. And just like Bella, I'm uncertain who she should choose. The fiery passion but potential devastation of Edward, or the boring but obviously caring (and potentially nurturing) Michael. There's just no right answer, and I LOVE THAT! Mike is equivalent to Jacob in this story - a promise of a nice life, but not the right choice solely because he is not Edward.

Obviously the perv in me votes for Edward all the way because, hell, who wouldn't want more of that mindblowing lemony action! Being able to feel your sensations/feelings AND being able to experience the sensations/feeling of the other person at the same time through an intimate mind-body connection... perhaps the absolute BEST manifestation of a supernatural power in a fic, ever.

Much much love to you! I will patiently wait for as long as it takes for the next chapter. Quality over quickness, sister!
- Althea

Official Description: By pretending she is falling for Edward, Bella is fulfilling Esme’s dying wish. But sexy, possessive Edward can read her mind. Will she ever get into his? Can Bella forget the pain of her teenage years, and can she resist his relentless seduction? AH.
Twilight - Rated: M - English - Angst/Romance - Chapters: 17 - Words: 92,870 - Reviews: 4770 - Updated: 11-13-09 - Published: 5-31-09 - Bella & Edward

The Screamers, by KiyaRaven

http://www.fanfiction.net/s/5081258/1/The_Screamers

Official Description: Living on the streets is hard for Bella Swan, but not as hard as putting up with Edward Cullen when he drags her into his lifestyle of sex, drugs and Rock and Roll. Will they be able to help each other before they kill eachother? Cursing/sex/dark themes   WIP

 

This story is fiercely original. I <3 this Bella who is fiesty, smart, and funny. And the interactions with Rob -- hilarious! The lemons on this puppy are CRAZY and the Ginie/Godzy connection is one for the ages. But my favorite part has got to be Rob: starting with Saturday Night Live, hosted by Robert Pattinson and musical guest Edward Cullen. Gah and the self-deprecating comedic contribution of Rob, attempting to be Bella's supportive friend, just brilliant stuff. The story has got a bit o angst thrown in with some interesting twists and turns, bot to mention the premise of Bella being forced to live on the streets. But such a glum prospect is overcome by her totally original personality. This is a fun, sexy fic.