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Recommended Fanfiction
Compiled
by Medea
Reach me at medealives@hotmail.com
Updated,
This section contains a limited selection
of intriguing, creative BtVS fanfiction
that has really piqued my imagination as I've read it. Each of these authors
has found a way to convey powerful insights into the characters or into the
nature of vampire culture (indeed, as the selections will show, my taste tends
to run toward the 'humans?-who-cares-about-humans?-get-to-the-vampire-stuff-already!'
genre). These are works that I enjoy reading again and again, that avoid the
pitfalls of atrocious spelling and fourth-grade grammar, that have genuinely
original plots, that do justice to the characters -- hopefully, the
selection will continue to expand. Specific merits are described beneath each
individual story.
NC-17
Warning:
Some of the stories recommended are NC-17, and may include Slashfic.
Face it, kiddies, many of the slashfic writers have
got vampires down to an art form. Frankly, if sex and violence make you
squeamish, what the bloody hell are you doing reading vampire fanfiction, anyway? Go check out something more human, like
Rebecca of Sunnybrook Farm or Little House on the Prairie, y'nonce!
IMPORTANT
NOTICE:
I staunchly believe in karma, so do right by these wonderful authors. If you
like one of the stories recommended below, send the author feedback (e-mail addies available wherever the
stories are linked). Treat them right, and good things will return to you.
Like, say, even more good stories....
Organized
alphabetically by author's name (and by last name in the case of those who have
provided one). NEW recommendations in italics.
Avalon - Love
Is Blind
http://www2.freewebz.com/eternalbalance/OtherAuthors/LoveisBlind_1.htm
Pairing: Buffy/Spike
Rating: NC-17
This is an excellent adaptation of the
Angel episode, 'The Trial', to a scenario involving Buffy and Spike. At heart,
it is an exquisitely well-paced, well-written story about a series of choices:
how Slayer and vampire grapple with those choices, how they come to accept the
consequences of those choices, how their choices shape them as individuals. The
plot is simple yet elegant: how would Buffy react to being so physically
incapacitated that she couldn't perform her duties as Slayer or protect those
she loved? Her solution, and Spike's reaction, are
both utterly believable, and Avalon does what good writers ought to do: she
spends time exploring the inner struggles of each character, and concentrates
on describing, in beautiful detail, the very slow process of realization
and enlightenment, rather than resorting to a quick and easy epiphany. This one
is addictive.
Rebecca Carefoot
- Three Doors
http://thebuffer.smithereen.net/rebecca/threedoors.html
Pairing: Buffy/Angel
Rating: R
A re-telling of the
classic "Lady and the Tiger" story. How would Buffy choose if three
different incarnations of Angel were concealed behind three doors? Very
well-written examination of the intricacies of Buffy's relationship to Angel
and how being a Slayer complicates things. Great action, great attention to the
teamwork among the Scoobies, and a thoughtful ending
that remains faithful to the enormous difficulty of the choice Buffy is forced
to make.
Carrie - Take
Your Time
and the sequel, It's About Time
Carrie's Home Page: http://yankee-kiwi.home.mindspring.com/home.html
Pairing: Willow/Spike,
Willow/Angelus
Rating: PG-13 except
for Chapter 27, which is NC-17
The saga to end all
sagas. A richly woven tapestry of character studies of
Chase - Thrall
http://www.echonyc.com/~stax/Buffy/chase/thrall1.htm
Pairing: Buffy/Spike
Rating: NC-17
A richly detailed,
introspective examination of Buffy's struggle to reconcile her attraction
to Spike with all of her Slayer's convictions about vampires-as-evil. Even
the smallest details are significant, and the author skillfully weaves missing
scenes such as conversations between Buffy and Joyce, brief snippets of pillow
talk between Slayer and vampire, together with some very poignant insights
about Buffy's fears about herself. One particularly good moment comes with
Buffy's reflections on why her room isn't a sanctuary, a safe haven from the
monsters (so why bother hanging garlic?) Throughout the story, Buffy and Spike
dance around that final step they have yet to take -- the one line they haven't
crossed -- that suggests a darker, more primal form of intimacy than sex.
So hauntingly well-written that it's hard to believe this is the author's
first effort at fanfic.
http://lavraiecoquette.tripod.com/awtcontents.html
Pairing: Angelus/Darla/William/Drusilla
Rating: Unrated (R-ish is my guess)
Like Peasant, Coquette has a true flair for rich, detailed explorations of
what William's early existence as a vampire may have been like. The adventure
is wonderfully suspenseful: a battered minion appears on their doorstep, prompting
Angelus, Darla, William, and Drusilla to flee with the unwanted and unwelcome
minion as they anticipate the pursuit of the Slayer. The journey offers fascinating
insights into what it might have been like for anyone, human or vampire, to
survive on the run in the English countryside during the nineteenth century.
William is wonderfully bewildered throughout it all, and his frustration and
bewilderment at the path his elders choose, and the tasks Angelus sets for
him, provide the reader with the lens through which to consider all the different
survival strategies vampires might have needed when not in an urban environment.
My particular favorite is Angelus's insistence that William learn to tell
time by the nighttime constellations. Darla's relationship with the human
residents of a remote village is believably feudal, and is but one of many
reasons that Coquette's story is light-years beyond the actual, televised
BtVS or AtS in portraying the interaction that vampires
have with the human population as complex and multifaceted. This is a great
read for anyone who agrees that vampires would have a much keener appreciation
for the need to plan in the long-term than is usually shown by the GrrArrghBite!vamps
that typically populate onscreen Sunnydale.
DangerMouse
– The Watcher
http://users3.ev1.net/~scaliff42/purplefic/watcher.html
Pairing:
None
Rating:
PG-13
A delightful
parody of Edgar Allen Poe's 'The Raven', centered around a very frustrated
Giles and a certain annoying blond vamp, chained in his bathtub, who persists
in rapping at his bathroom door. I tend to shy away from comedy, since there is
a lot out there that gets too slapsticky or has
extremely forced/immature characterizations all for the sake of a laugh, but
this was definitely well done. The author does justice to Giles and Spike
– their characters work well in poetry! Try this one out for a grin.
Dazzle
- The Prism Series
1. Yellow 2. Gray 3. Green 4. Red 5. Purple 6. Orange 7. Black 8. Blue
9. White
Or visit the author's web site, Glitter and Shine, at http://www.goldenmaze.com/gands/htmfiles/glitterandshine.htm
Pairing:
Cordelia/Angel
Rating: PG-13
A series of stories, each bearing a different
color as the title and mood. Character studies of Angel and Cordelia
that examine their emerging feelings for each other during season 3 of Angel.
The imagery is haunting and does wonders to give greater depth to thoughts,
hopes, and regrets that were only hinted at onscreen. Touches upon Angel's
grief over Buffy's death and Cordelia's role as
his touchstone, and provides one of the best accounts of what transpired during
the post-resurrection meeting between Angel and Buffy that we were never shown.
Mike Dewar(et.
al.) - Doyle Investigations
http://wishverse.envy.nu/ff.html
Pairing: Doyle/Faith
Rating: PG-13
Multiple authors (Ellen, Tammy, Cedar, Mike Dewar, and Debi) get the credit
for one of the most creative, intriguing explorations of the "Wishverse"
that I've read. The premise is that Cordelia's wish was never reversed, Buffy
died in the battle with the Master, Angel never came to Los Angeles, so a
lone, half-Brachen investigator named Doyle has taken the mission from the
Powers That Be into his own hands. The series starts with Faith's arrival
at his office -- she's unwilling to let the Watchers Council herd her into
an early death at the hands of the Master, and has gone AWOL from her appointed
duty to fight the Master. Doyle and Faith team up, and what follows is an
excellent, addictive ensemble piece that looks at a possible future in which
"cast-off" characters from the series (whether killed off by writers
or turned into baddies) are the only hope left, and how they piece together
a pretty kick-ass team. One of my favorite aspects of this story is that it
focuses on the demon side of things, rather than treating them as MOTWs who
are sprinkled in as "token" colorful characters. It also acknowledges
that life would go on as usual for quite awhile, even if the Master had won
the battle with Buffy, and that while the situation might be worse with the
Master fully in power over Sunnydale, there would still be time for humans
to regroup and fight back. That, and the characterization of Doyle is fantabulous.
It makes me wish I'd gotten to see more development of his character on-screen.
|
d.irge and Thrombus - Exquisite
Corpse Pairing: Buffy/Spike |
|
Michael Donovan - The
Seventh Son Series
http://members.fortunecity.co.uk/1975/buffy/html/0mdonova.htm
Archived at Boca del
Infierno, http://members.fortunecity.co.uk/1975/buffy/html/index.htm
Pairing: Buffy/Gabriel
Giles (overall)
Rating: PG-13 overall
A brilliant piece of
creative genius. This series follows the integration of a new champion (Gabriel
Giles, The Seventh Son of a Seventh Son, gifted with superhuman powers yet
burdened by a legacy of betrayal) into the Sunnydale
crew. The characterizations are rich, subtle and compelling, and their
development over time is simply amazing. The stories in this series range from
battles against the Mayor, to apocalyptic visions of an alternate future, to
speculations on what happened in
Michael Donovan - Penance
http://members.fortunecity.co.uk/1975/buffy/html/0mdonova.htm
Archived at Boca del Infierno, http://members.fortunecity.co.uk/1975/buffy/html/index.htm
Pairing:
Angelus/Drusilla
Rating: R
A chilling, seductive
vision of Angelus's cat-and-mouse game with Drusilla
which ultimately ends with her turning. Of particular interest for the
psychological study of Drusilla's family dynamics, and how Angelus preys upon
the tragic flaws in each family member, with each step driving her closer and
closer to insanity and damnation. Ends with a wickedly persuasive remark by
Drusilla about why Angelus's name, ironically, is
quite appropriate for such a fiend.
Ducks - Nights
Like This
http://www.geocities.com/ducksfanfic/adult/snaslash/nights.html
Pairing: Angel/Spike
Rating: NC-17
Yes, this has smut. Yes, it is brilliantly-written. No, the two are not incompatible.
This story is an incredibly insightful sketch of the psychological fall-out
Angel might have to deal with after his trip to Hell. Spike's method of dealing
with it is utterly believable, and provides a detailed picture of sire-childe
relations, and the feral side of vampire nature. This is Spike as he ought
to be seen -- not the damned chipped version that Joss insists on giving us!
One of the most worthwhile, pure, unadulterated doses of angst I've yet encountered.
And some fine shagging, too.
Esmeralda - The Stranger Things
Series
http://dea.certes.tripod.com/buffy/strange.htm
Also archived at My Immortal Beloved, http://www.my-immortal-beloved.co.uk/menu2.html
Pairing: Xander/Spike, Angel/Doyle
Rating: NC-17
A long, involved series
that gradually and steadily develops complex yet caring relationships between
characters. I read this one numerous times, absolutely seduced by the story and
character dynamics, yet lost for how to describe it. Yes, this takes the
characters in a much different direction than we've seen them in either series.
But it's fascinating. The male-male relations in this series are compelling,
and a much-appreciated break from the standard fare of Warrior, Wise Man or
Comic Relief. In this tale, Xander and Spike develop
a close relationship that is playful and passionate (picture, if you will, a
very domestic scene involving Xander chopping mouse
guts in the kitchen for a spell), yet they also fight their way out of the
Initiative, kick a little vampire ass, and hang out in demon bars. Even the "bad guys" -- the commandos of the Initiative --
are treated with greater complexity than the usual "macho
soldier-boy" stereotype. In addition to offering a very welcome
portrayal of masculine relationships that are tender and compassionate, the
series adds to the current stock of vampire mythology. We see the progressive
transformation of Xander into a "half-kind"
-- altered by his blood ties to Spike, he develops
heightened senses and physical abilities.
Misty Flores - How To Date A Beautiful Woman (In Less Than One Week!)
http://www.stoic-simplicity.net/imperfect/fiction/angel/htdabw.html
Pairing: Cordelia/Angel,
Fred/Gunn, Wesley/Faith
Rating: R
This is a delightfully humorous look at misunderstandings, miscommunications,
and misguided attempts by the Angel Investigations crew to avoid confronting
mutual attractions. Better than that, though, it is a painstakingly well-crafted
ensemble piece. The story begins with the aftermath of some disastrously intimate
encounters, then proceeds via flashback to narrate how Wesley "accidentally"
slept with Faith on Cordelia's couch and got a black eye for his troubles;
how Gunn "accidentally" slept with Fred and found himself embroiled
with Justine and Holtz; and how Cordelia and Angel realized they were the
proud parents of the entire group. What shines through this story is not simply
an account of how each couple comes to work through their romantic difficulties,
but rather how every member of the team cares for the others, and comes to
recognize the importance of putting the group before personal hang-ups.
HonorH - 'Ships
that Pass Into Type
http://www.geocities.com//honorh_macspam/ships.htm
Pairing: Wouldn't
You Just Like To Know?
Rating:
I'm guessing PG
A lovely parody of Buffy/Angel shipfic
stereotypes. From Angel's dogged insistence that he does NOT always bite during
sex, to Xander's squeamish reaction to slashfic, to Cordy's irritation
at fanfic authors' obsession with C/A sex-on-the-desk,
a very witty and enjoyable send-up of shipfic standards
that have been done to death.
Inamorata -
Another
Life
Archived at the author's web site, Glitter and Shine, http://www.goldenmaze.com/gands/htmfiles/glitterandshine.htm
Pairing: Cordelia/Angel
Rating:
NC-17
Beautiful,
painful angst. This is a polished, well-crafted alternate reality that puts
a dark yet believable twist on the Angel episode, "Birthday". Angel
and Cordelia met at the party, but never started working together. Insteady,
they meet up, years later, each of them a hollow shell of misery. What begins
as a chance act of kindness on Angel's part evolves -- after a brutal
tragedy -- into a hesitant partnership, then friendship, and eventually love.
Each step is made slowly, with careful attention to the emotional growth of
both characters -- the relationship between these two, wounded souls is never
cheapened with the "instant romance" pill. Even the smallest detail
is rich and evocative -- right down to Angel's quick response when Cordelia
asks what she smells like to him (yeah, that'll keep you guessing). And the
ending, for all its bittersweet agony, is so starkly real. Inamorata truly
does justice to the more serious themes she injects into this story: she recognizes
that in this day and age, for all too many who have walked the path that Cordelia
walks in this tale, there are no miraculous happy endings. So, you're warned:
this is Angst with a capital 'A', you will need a
box of tissues, but oh is it ever worth the read.
Jackson - Sweet
Revenge
http://www.biteable.co.uk/jackson/fics/srindex.html
Pairing:
Spike/Xander
Rating: NC-17
This gripping tale is brutally intense in its character studies, yet
manages to be bittersweet, compassionate, and starkly honest in its treatment
of personal interactions. The central focus is the painstakingly slow evolution
of a relationship between Xander and Spike, and the premise for their mutual
attraction is one of the most plausible I've ever seen. It remains true to
their onscreen personalities: at the outset, they loathe each other. Spike's
initial objective is to toy with Xander's emotional vulnerability after being
abandoned by Anya in order to hurt Buffy. The seduction is indeed cruel, manipulative,
and every bit as cold-hearted as you'd expect from the Big Bad, and afterwards,
Xander does not miraculously adore Spike or see him through fluffy, rose-colored
glasses -- he hates the vampire even more, and despises himself for giving
into a moment of weakness. But then...then Jackson sets the alchemy in motion,
and with the patience of a truly skilled writer, slowly guides Xander and
Spike through the beginnings of self-doubt about what they feel, then mutual
jealousy, obsession, need, love, betrayal -- it just keeps getting more and
more intense. Now add to this intoxicating, fascinating mix the fact that
the events are subtly integrated to the episodes of season 5, and blended
so well that it makes you take a second look at each episode, and you're in
for a great read. So, if you like angst, and if you enjoy getting inside the
characters' heads, you'll enjoy this fascinating psychological portrait of
Xander and Spike -- especially how it gets to the heart of their deepest fears,
and shows that where intimacy is concerned, these two men who have spent much
of their time as antagonists actually have more in common than they might
like to admit.
Jonquil
- The
Company of Wolves
http://www.geocities.com/serpyllum/fic/wolves1-23.html
Pairing:
Willow/Spike
Rating: R
Of all the Willow-as-Spike's-captive narratives out there, this one
stays true to Willow's character. Very tight yet nuanced
portrayal of Willow and her indomitable spirit. This Willow makes a
slow, steady, yet believable adjustment to life as a human forced into vampire
society. Hands down, the best Spike characterization out
there that I've seen. Voice, mannerisms, motivation
all on target. And an excellent study of vampire culture, particularly
the clash in "lifestyle" between the moderns and the "Trads".
Highly recommended. Bloody hell, what am I saying?
Recommended? No -- REQUIRED. Read. Now.
JR
- I'll
Stand By You
http://www.angelfire.com/de/theparlor/stand.html
Pairing:
Willow/Angel friendship
Rating: PG
Very sweet, sincere portrait of Angel as a caring friend who does what
he can to help someone who is grieving. Interesting foray
into the thoughts of a member of the walking dead about death and the consolation
of the living. Beautifully captures Angel in prime awkward-yet-well-intentioned
mode.
Laikokae - Innocence
Archived at Slashing the Angel, http://www.ficbitch.com/slashingtheangel/home.html
Pairing:
Spike/Angel
Rating: PG
A thoughtful, Angel POV study of Spike with some interesting ideas
about what really happens to a human being when turned by a vampire. Allows for greater complexity than the standard demon-takes-over-body-previous-occupant-leaves
scenario. That alone makes it a very worthwhile read.
http://lazuli.kat.users.btopenworld.com/repossession.htm
Pairing: Xander/Spike
Rating: NC-17
An epic, poignant, bittersweet story, its greatest strength
is the profound character studies that Lazuli does of Xander and Spike, and
the intricate, gripping plot is creative, powerful drama. The story begins
when Xander finds Spike, skeletal, comatose, and wounded in an alley several
years into the future. Xander, who went on to a successful career in contracting,
nurses Spike back to health and slowly uncovers the truth about what was done
to him -- and the truth reveals the twisted, dark depths of revenge in certain
human hearts. Lazuli is a brilliant master at exploring the complexities of
Spike's psyche and creating a very believable schizoid persona as the defensive
mechanism of a powerful vampire trapped in a torturous situation. This tale
of healing and comfort evolves into a complex, often dystunctional romance
between Xander and Spike, and introduces some fascinating, mysterious original
characters (Xander's co-workers) whose protective instincts where Xander is
concerned suggest some intriguing, perhaps-not-so-human origins. Set aside
a subsantial chunk of time when you start this one -- once you've read the
first chapter, it's extremely hard to stop reading! One of my favorites, the
emotional tension keeps me coming back again and again.
Pairing:
Xander/Spike
Rating: NC-17
Warning: Character Death/Suicide -- Very Dark Themes.
I normally shy away from suicide stories, but this one manages to be raw and
sympathetic all at once. The old adage “be careful what you wish for”
comes into play here. Xander discovers that eternal life can have some heart-breaking
strings attached to it. As he works through a very painful realization of
his limitations, Xander alternates between numb despair and all-too-brief
moments with the lover for whom he’d been willing to sacrifice freedom
in exchange for a second chance at life. Much angst over the existential injustice
of the universe, as well as some good, solid character studies (particularly
Xander, Spike, and Willow). This could be seen as a very, very, VERY dark
take on one morbid running-theme from the film Groundhog Day.
Pairing:
Xander/Spike
Rating: NC-17
Humor. This is just plain wrong. It’s so very, very wrong that I absolutely
must recommend it. The Vamp in the Hat has by now achieved the status of a
classic, and it is wickedly good tongue-in-cheek (among other places) humor.
Tried and true staples of X/S slashfic are blended with a very perverse reading
of Dr. Seuss. You’ve been warned, so don’t come whining to me
if you laugh so hard you shit bricks.
Melissa
- Oral
Fixation
http://melissa123.home.mindspring.com/writings.htm
Pairing:
Willow/Spike
Rating: NC-17
Erotica. As the author herself summarizes it: "Willow
is feeling out of control and is fixating on Spike's fixation with putting
things in his mouth". Unlike much smut out there, though, this
piece actually opens the door to quite an interesting possible plot development
at the end. Willow's inner monologue is strikingly in-character, as is her
humorous, endearing realization that magic is no easier to master than a vampire.
UPDATE: MELISSA HAS NOW MADE THIS INTO A SERIES OF STORIES, EACH TOLD FROM
A DIFFERENT CHARACTER'S PERSPECTIVE. FURTHER DEVELOPMENT
OF THAT INTERESTING PLOT DEVELOPMENT.
Melissa
- Pet
http://melissa123.home.mindspring.com/writings.htm
Pairing:
Willow/Spike
Rating: PG-13
Some good insights into what makes Spike tick.
Good examination of his protectiveness toward Drusilla, as well as an ending
that reveals a credible insecurity. All this and a believable
plot about Willow's ingenuity when Buffy and Giles need to be rescued.
One of the few Master-Pet stories that keeps Willow and Spike true
to character.
Meltha
- Tea
and Company
Archived at The Adventures of Mr. Gordo, http://www.channelingboards.com/Fanfiction/MGmenu.html
Pairing:
TOO CLEVER!!!
Rating: PG
The mystery of this pairing is part of the appeal of this endearing,
clever vignette. A refreshing, unique POV on our favorite Slayer and peroxide
vamp, that unfolds at a relaxed, cordial gathering on a very
special day that comes but once a year. A little "pillow talk" about
life with the Slayer, some thoughtful reflection on what it's like to be a
vampire's companion....intrigued? Read this!
Oni
- Q
& A and Motive and Opportunity
Archived at Slashing the Angel, http://www.ficbitch.com/slashingtheangel/home.html
Pairing:
Angel/Xander (bloodplay)
Rating: R
Companion vignettes about the sensual experience of feeding, both for
the vampire and the human "donor". Xander arrives at the Hyperion
shortly after learning about Riley's nasty little habit, and asks Angel to
explain the appeal. Very insightful character studies of Xander and Angel:
Xander's need for emotional connection and a sense of belonging is handled
with sympathy, as is Angel's wistful desire for any kind of connection at
all. Beautiful detail is lavished on the kind of connection that is formed
by fangs in flesh.
Peasant
- Sweet
William
http://www.ficbitch.com/peasants_plot/SweetWilliamFrontPage.html
Pairing: Angelus/Darla/William/Drusilla
Rating: NC-17
I'm long, long overdue for recommending Peasant's historical fanfiction. If
you enjoy Sweet William, you'll want to scour Peasant's site for
all of her other takes on the Fatal Four during the early years of William's
existence as a vampire. Peasant delves into the world of vampire communities
in the nineteenth century like no other author I've yet encountered. Sweet
William opens with William's funeral, and from the moment of his initial
panic at finding himself in a coffin and his refusal to believe Angelus's
assertions that he is a vampire, the story launches into a fascinating, detailed
examination of how difficult it can be for a previously prim and proper human
mind to adjust to being the newest, most inexperienced member of an undead
family. Angelus is a right bastard who never explains anything; he and Darla
preside over their brood like the sternest, most disciplinarian parents you
could ever imagine. But if, like me, you're fascinated by different writers'
explorations of what vampire communities could/might be like, this is a must
read.
Philip
S. - The
Soulworld Series
Direct Link to Soulworld Series: http://soulworld.shadow-dancing.com/Soulworld.html
Archived
at the author's website, Shadow Dancing, http://www.shadow-dancing.com/index1.html
Pairing:
Buffy/Angel and too many others to list here!
Rating: R (overall)
This series is a stunning achievement. Set
aside several hours because you will be drawn into one of the richest, most
compelling Alternate Realities I've yet encountered in Buffy-fic. In my not-as-humble-as-it-should-be
opinion, the Soulworld Series sets the standard for alternate reality. The
premise of this epic is that around the turn of the twentieth century, Angel
and Spike managed a comprehensive restoration spell that gave ALL
the world's vampires souls. From there, the author weaves an intricate
tale that tackles such issues as civil and political rights for marginal populations
(i.e. should vampires have "rights" in the U.S., like other citizens?),
and believe it or not, the very foundations of Western metaphysics (i.e. the
final battle between Heaven and Hell...so where does the earthly population
fit into this glorified fisticuffs?). Un-freaking-believable!!! I kid you
not: in Soulworld IV, Angel, Buffy, Willow, Spike, Giles and the whole gang
will find themselves caught in the middle of divine/infernal pigheadedness
and rivalry, as our heroes try to mediate between heaven's Archangels and
the devil himself. As if this tapestry of existential issues and fast-paced
action wasn't enough, Soulworld examines the relations between different characters
with greater sensitivity and thoughtfulness than a lot of 'shipper'-fic out
there. There is a fascinating exploration of a particular bond that can be
formed between vampires and humans, but unlike so many writers who use a 'bond'
as a sloppy, convenient plot device for sex, Philip S. takes the time to delve
into the power dynamics involved. The story also addresses the sticky problem
of how a Vampire Slayer could reconcile her birthright and calling (i.e. killing
vampires) with the fact that the world's vampires were all ensouled, and hence,
no longer evil by definition. I cannot praise this series enough, I could
go on and on, but if you've read this far and are still interested, it's time
for you to click on that link and give it a test drive yourself. Trust me:
This. Is. Awesome. (But do be sure that you've got at least 5-6 hours
to kill when you start).
http://www.shadow-dancing.com/Dark/Willy.html
Pairing: None
Rating: Unrated (PG-13-ish is my guess)
Philip is one of my favorite authors, and just when I'd thought he'd done
EVERYTHING in his Soulworld series, he came up with one of the funniest takes
on Sunnydale life I've ever had the pleasure of busting my gut over. Think
Cheers, Hellmouth-style. Early episodes of BtVS are portrayed
from the fringe perspective of the demon denizens of Willy's bar, offering
a delightfully witty take on how Buffy's exploits as the Slayer appear to
those who are normally on the receiving end of her fists. The regulars at
Willy's include Daniel Fleetfoot, always up on the latest scoop of interest
to the demon world; Harvey, who proves that even other vampires thought that
Luke and the Master were just way too uptight; and there's even one called
No-o-o-o-rm! (Sorry, couldn't resist). There are only five chapters up so
far, and I desperately hope that Philip will continue this one.
Princess
McPhee - Not
Invincible
http://www.geocities.com/princess_mcphee/notinvincible1.htm
Pairing:
Spike/Angel
Rating: R
A sympathetic Angel POV about his often vexed, yet often caring, relationship
with his troublesome grand-childe. Begins with a suicidal Spike seeking out
his mentor after Buffy batters and demeans him one time too many. Definitely
comfort fic, but doesn't descend immediately into
a sordid romp fest. Instead, it explores Angel's complex reasons for feeling
obligated to look after Spike, and nicely weaves flashbacks to their early
days as Angelus and William in with the present day. This story also has a
lot to offer a vampire-physiology junkie like me -- in particular, a very
amusing episode that explores how cocaine cycles through a vamp's body (and
why the hangovers are 100 times worse for the Fanged Set), as well as musings
about vampires not rising from the grave with an instinctive knowledge that
they should avoid the sun. Great all around story for characterizations
and eloquent, articulate prose. (Note: author formerly listed as 'Kelsey', her ff.net ID, but on own
website goes by Princess McPhee).
Abhainn
Realta - Be
Still
Archived at Slashing the Angel, http://www.ficbitch.com/slashingtheangel/home.html
Pairing:
Spike/Angel
Rating: NC-17
Very, very insightful musings from Spike's POV about what Angel's interior
decorating choices might have to do with the sensory assault that human proximity
wreaks on vampire nerves. Also some interesting thoughts on what happens to
a human being when turned by a vampire, especially the soul. Sensual, playful, wistful thoughts from Spike's POV about his reluctant
need for Angel. Deals well with issues of control
and abandonment.
Rheanna
- In
The Waiting
Archived at the author's website, Palimpsest, http://www.freenet.co.uk/hp/ruthhanna/index.htm
Pairing:
None
Rating: PG-13
Creative plot idea -- no, make that a truly inspired, phenomenal plot
idea -- and very unique approach to the study of Angel's character. First-person
POV (a challenge to pull off well, but Rheanna does it), examines the
delicate balance between Angel's persona and Angelus's, as told from the perspective
of a kidnapped psychiatrist. Trust me, when you read this, you can literally
see Cordelia and crew pulling just such a stunt. Ahem, Joss? I said
you can see Cordelia and crew pulling this kind of stunt -- as in, when will
we see this on the show, Mr. Whedon?
Spirit
- The
Soul Cage
http://dimension_fabulous.net/nemesis/ckness.htm
Pairing:
William/Angelus
Rating: NC-17
A poetic, stream-of-consciousness account
of Spike's turning. Very seductive yet elusive imagery.
Tracy
– The
Anniversary
http://eternalbalance.freeservers.com/Anniversary1.htm
Pairing:
Buffy/Spike
Rating:
NC-17
For
ten years, on the same night each year, Buffy and Spike have agreed to meet
for a fight to the death. Wonder why? Read this story! Above all, it is a beautiful study of the lengths
that Spike would go to in order to earn Buffy's trust. A delicious exploration
of the parallels between combat and love in the 'dance' that has been going
on between Slayer and vampire.
Tracy
- Haunt
of the House
http://eternalbalance.freeservers.com/Haunt1.htm
Pairing:
Buffy/Spike
Rating: R
While a vacation at a cozy, Victorian Bed and Breakfast might not be
the setting you'd imagine for a great Buffy/Spike adventure, this splendidly
chilling story makes it work. From their first encounter with the vengeful,
terrifying spirit who haunts the house, to their horrifying discovery about
the events of the past that led to the house being haunted, Buffy and Spike
are drawn into a first-class horror story, far better than most of the predictable,
blood and gore slasher films out there. The prose
is elegant and beautiful, and the interaction between Buffy and Spike is touching.
Although the story is unfinished, it is well worth the read. You'll enjoy
this if you like suspense and the exploration of the human mind in all its
twisted, perverse glory.
Tracy
– When
Eternity Lies In The Balance
http://eternalbalance.freeservers.com/Eternity1.htm
Pairing:
Buffy/Spike
Yet another amazingly poignant story from Tracy. After Buffy's
death, Spike is tapped by The Powers That Be to brave the hostile reception
of Heaven itself in order to bring her back to the world of the living and
prevent the future destruction of the earth. Spike's reasoning when he gives
his consent, as well as the method he uses to persuade Buffy to leave her
state of perfect bliss, shows how insightful Tracy's renderings of the characters
are. The Powers That Be are just as cold, indifferent, and arrogant as you've
always imagined them to be, while Dawn is written with a maturity and sense
of emerging leadership that I wish the show's writers would acknowledge. Also
offers a very interesting perspective on what Heaven would look like through
the eyes of a vampire, and why that perception might mistakenly lead Buffy's
friends to believe that she is actually trapped in Hell. This story treats
the depth of Spike's affection for Buffy with highly sympathetic respect,
and also offers a convincing view of how well matched they are as fighters.
Jessica
Walker - Sense
Memory Pt. 3: Taste
Archived
at Slashing the Angel, http://www.ficbitch.com/slashingtheangel/home.html
A richly-detailed consideration of what vampires taste. The flavor of blood and sin and redemption and all things in between.
Quite tasty.
Pairing: Spike/Xander
Rating: NC-17
One of the best mind-trips and explorations of the psyche that I've seen in
fanfic in a long time, regardless of the pairing. This story is not for the
faint of heart, yet if you have the stomach for violence, despair, and an
almost existential claustrophobia, you will be richly rewarded by some incredibly
brilliant writing. I don't want to give away much about this story, because
the best part of it is feeling utterly confused about what's really going
on while you're reading it. In that sense, Wiseacress does what so few writers
can do -- she gets you inside the mind of the protagonist. Xander's confusion
about his situation and attempt to grasp whatever clues he can get becomes
the reader's confusion. The premise is Xander's move to Los Angeles, where
he settles in a rather unsafe neighborhood (and the vivid descriptions of
the grimy, despairing underside of existence in the slums is yet another demonstration
of how intense and compelling Wiseacress's writing is). After an extremely
violent encounter, Xander is plunged into a long, stifling experience of captivity
and recovery in which he pieces together fragments of a brutal underworld,
but never fully understands its rules, players, or conflicts. One of the true
gems in this story is an original character, Liv. Her motivation is left shadowy,
but the phrase Stockholm Syndrome springs to mind. In Liv, a human
who serves Spike with an intriguing mixture of reluctance and unshakable loyalty,
the reader can perceive hints of one direction that Xander's path might lead
him. In the end, the reader is left wondering where Xander finds the strength
to make the choices he makes -- indeed, any choices at all. I highly, highly
recommend this story, but with one final cautionary note: you might not want
to listen to Pink Floyd's The Wall while you're reading it, unless
you really enjoy messing with your head.
Yahtzee
- Phoenix
Burning
http://www.thechicagoloop.net/yahtzee/insect/insectfic/PhoenixIndex.htm
Pairing:
Buffy/Angel, but like you've never seen 'em -- this ain't your grandma's Buffy/Angel-ship!
Rating: R
Okay, I'm cheating. I can't give a complete review because I haven't
finished it yet. But even though I'm only about half-way through, it's got
me hooked. A future-fic that presents one of the most gripping examples of
power struggles, deceit and manipulation since U.S./Soviet foreign relations
during the Cold War (and if you don't know what the Cold War was -- oh good
grief! Stop reading fanfic and go study, now!). Teaming Buffy up with a hardened,
disillusioned Angel 350 years into the future, as well as with an assortment
of other Slayers from the past, is just brilliant. The other Slayers have
bona fide personalities of their own, and serve as a nice counterpoint to
Buffy's own style as a Slayer. A tale that confirms the wisdom of the saying:
"Power corrupts; absolute power corrupts absolutely."
Broken
or Bad Link? Dammit! Clue me in at medealives@hotmail.com
