Five Fics That Really Got to Me in 2014

[velvetwhip.livejournal.com]

I think we all know I have a taste for angst and these are 5 fics which really whet my appetite last year:

1) Red Frame, White Light (Spike, Xander) by sparrow2000 - If you're looking for something subtle and insidious that will leave you shuddering long after the last word is read, then there's nothing better than this little encounter between Spike and Xander in Season 7. This is a stunner, an absolute stunner, filled with the kind of imagery that takes hold and doesn't let go. Sparrow's use of language, as always, elevates fanfiction to art.



2) Sweetheart, I'm Not Bitter (x-over with Doctor Who; Dawn/Clara/Amy) by clockwork_hart1 - I don't read crossovers, especially not crossovers with shows I have never watched in my life... except when they're written by the extraordinary clockwork_hart1. This is an astonishingly poetic, lyrical creation that defies description and commands awe. Read it.

3) [rest]Less (the folsom prison blues remix) (Faith, Faith/Tara/First Slayer) by snowpuppies *Dreamwidth link* - Do I even have to give you a reason to read this? Snowpuppies name is a trademark for the finest in fanfiction and while she's been quiet this year, this story shows that when she did have words to give us... Just go forth and read. This is a strange and compelling dream/nightmare-scape of a tale and one you won't soon forget.

4) Long Time Passing (the When I Could Have Loved You Remix) (Riley, mentions Willow/Riley, Buffy/Riley, Sam/Riley) by aadler - This is a remix of my own story, Civilian, but it stands on its own as a work of flawless insight and it's as impressive and compelling as can be. Aadler's work is always stellar and he did it again here. If you like Riley, this story will immediately hit the top of your favorites list and if you don't... this is the story that might just change your mind about the soldier from Iowa. A must-read no matter on which side of the spectrum you are.

5) Identity Theft (Willow, Faith, Willow/Spike) by snogged - Last but definitely not least, the legendary snogged gives us an excellent take on what might have happened had Faith chosen to switch bodies with Willow. While Faith's takeover of Willow fills the foreground, it's what happens to Willow as she's trapped in Faith's body that really leaves you shaken and the story is all the more effective for being structured just that way. This is one of the best "what if's" you're going to come across and it belongs on every BTVS fan's reading list.

Comments

[snogged.livejournal.com]

Thank you so much for the rec. I'm honored.

[velvetwhip.livejournal.com]

You're more than welcome. Your story is fantabulous!


Gabrielle

[baudown.livejournal.com]

I couldn't agree more about Red Frame, White Light. Looking forward to checking out the rest.

[velvetwhip.livejournal.com]

Your work astounded me this year too. Don't be shocked if you see me make another list...

I am sure you'll enjoy the other stories here!


Gabrielle

[rbfvid.livejournal.com]

"Red Frame, White Light" is absolutely terrific. And seems that I missed some of others, thanks for the recs!

[velvetwhip.livejournal.com]

You're sure to enjoy the other tales, so I am glad I brought them to your attention.


Gabrielle

[double_dutchess]

I've only read 'Red Frame, White Light' and 'Identity Theft' but both are great stories. I found 'Red Frame, White Light' especially impressive, that one really got me by the throat.

[velvetwhip.livejournal.com]

Glad you've enjoyed some of the same stories that I so loved in 2014!


Gabrielle

[aadler]

Happy to see myself on your list. I’m not a member of this community, but I may need to join just to submit some lists of my own. I’ve certainly seen enough good fic to justify that.

[velvetwhip.livejournal.com]

You earned your place on my list by writing truly marvelous stories. I am such a fan.

By all means join. This is a terrific community.


Gabrielle

[dragonyphoenix.livejournal.com]

Excellent choices. I'd forgotten Red Frame, White Light and it's brilliant. Thanks for the reminder.

[velvetwhip.livejournal.com]

Thanks! I have to agree that Red Frame, White Light is absolutely brilliant.


Gabrielle

[sparrow2000.livejournal.com]

Wow, I'm blushing so much I almost don't need the heating on in the house! Thank you so much for the gorgeous rec, I'm very flattered (and to get such lovely comments from others as well.)

I've read Long Time Passing and completely agree with your rec, it's terrific. I haven't read the others - so on they go to the list - getting longer by the minute!

s x

[velvetwhip.livejournal.com]

The rec was no more than you deserved, Sparrow. Your story was nonpareil!


Gabrielle

[yourlibrarian]

One thing I really like about Top 5 posts isn't just the recs but the blurbs for the recs. I really enjoy yours :)

[velvetwhip.livejournal.com]

Thank you so much! Gosh! I'm glad you like my blurbs!


Gabrielle

[shapinglight]

Thanks for the recs. I missed most of 2014 and it's good to know the fandom is still busy enough that it'll take me a while to catch up.

[velvetwhip.livejournal.com]

Welcome back! Yes, there were a lot of great stories written last year so you're in for some enjoyable reading.

Gabrielle