WIP of the Week: 1/30/12

Snapdragon by Prettykittyartist

http://www.fanfiction.net/s/7584562/1/Snapdragon

Review by Les16

Rating: M
Genre: Angst/Romance
Characters: Edward & Bella

Summary: Once upon a time, a girl fell in love with a boy. He gave her a ring and promised her forever. No one told her there'd be an expiration date on her glass slippers. What's a girl to do when she stands to lose everything? She fights. Hard. EXB AH AU

Do you like stories where Edward and Bella are married-older, wiser, and have really lived? Do you like when they have kids? How about a strong, fierce Bella willing to fight for what she wants? Or an Edward that is so far from perfect he's in his own zip code? If real, raw, and honest is your cup of tea, then prettykittyartist's Snapdragon is definitely the story for you.

If you've read any of prettykittyartist's work before (and if you haven't, WHERE have you been?) you know she's an HEA girl, but by the time you reach the end of the first chapter, you'll likely be scratching your head trying to figure out which magic hat she has to be able to pull that off for this fic. Bella and Edward are married, and have been for almost 20 years. If you ask Edward, he'll tell you happily … ask Bella and you're going to get a much different answer.

He chuckled against my lips and pulled away after leaving several small pecks. "We're embarrassing the children again," he said without apology. 

I shrugged and pulled myself closer to him, wrapping my arms around his neck. "That's the fun part." I hugged him close to me and soaked up the manly scent of his skin as I pressed my nose to his chest. 

"I'm going to miss you," I said softly. 

He stroked my back gently and hummed into my hair. "I'll miss you too, cookie," he said before kissing me again. I wasn't sure if it was more to piss off our gagging daughter, or for his benefit, but I had to admit I was dreading the trip he was about to take. 

I smiled against his lips. "You haven't called me cookie for a long time," I mused. The nickname always brought back so many memories and always brought me to my knees. 

"You'll always be my cookie," he promised. "I'm sorry I was an asshole earlier. I'm just tired." 

I wrapped my arms around his waist and laid my head against his chest. "Wake me up next time, okay? I don't like you sleeping somewhere else." 

The thing that gets me, and I know will get you, too, is how real this story is. Just because there are couples all over the world going through the same issues … kids, money, meddlesome parents, exes … does not mean this story is cliché. I promise you it's anything but. You'll root for Bella (and probably hope she practices Kung Fu on Edward's nether regions) and you're going to want to hold him down, shave his head, and tattoo asshole across his forehead. At the same time though, you're going to root for them both to work things out and be the couple they're supposed to be. Prettykittyartist has done an excellent job of using flashbacks to show us how much in love Edward and Bella used to be … and lets us know how they can be again. The words she uses are straight forward and in your face. There's no sugarcoating and there's no hiding. Edward and Bella's marriage is crumbling before their eyes and it's ugly and painful … and so very real, but there are glimpses of sunshine through the dark. The only question? Is Bella strong enough to stem the tide and put her family back together again or is she too late?

Read Snapdragon and find out. I guarantee you won't be sorry.

New Fic of the Week: 8/8/11-8/14/11

Sexual Napalm by KlrTwiluver

http://www.fanfiction.net/s/7055480/1/Sexual_Napalm#

Review by Les16

Rating: M
Genre: Romance/Suspense, AH
Characters: Edward/Bella

Summary: Edward Cullen's a 28 y/o billionaire who makes his fortune being a savant of sorts when it comes to world currency markets. He's firmly ensconced as Wall Street's Golden Boy when he meets his match in tigress, Bella Swan. Cosmopolis Edward. AH Lemon

Sexual Napalm is written by the very talented KlrTwiLuver who is 1/2 of TheBondGirls. The author tells us that her Edward is based very loosely on Eric Packer from Cosmopolis, but she has most definitely made him her own. If you like brash, confident ... naughty Edward, then this is the fic for you.

The first line of the story, I think, gives us quite the hint about Mr. Edward Cullen:

I don't interact with the world, it instead reacts to me. ~ Edward Cullen 

Can anyone say confident? As he should be, I suppose, seeing as how he's a 28-year-old billionaire that has taken the financial world by storm.

At twenty-eight, I've done what no one my age should do. I've commandeered the world's currency market. I own it, I control it, and I leverage it. My wealth didn't come from some strange fortune teller or crystal ball. Instead, it comes from my very being, my essence. I am the ringmaster as the world exchanges brawl in the fields of battle. 

To be honest, he's not the most likeable fellow, but his charisma leaps off the screen at you. There aren't a lot of details given out yet; KlrTwiLuver is very sparing at the pieces of information she shares with the readers so far. The writing is ripe with imagery and it flows effortlessly. You really feel like you are a part of the story, not merely reading it. I love finding a story that totally pulls you in and won't let go, and Sexual Napalm definitely does that.

Once we get our first glimpse of Edward, we find ourselves following him as he attends a black tie benefit. You know the kind, where the movers and shakers are, where the beautiful people go to see and be seen. As Edward enters, he's of course the man of the moment. Tall, good-looking, sexy … aloof, and knocked totally off his game when he spies a certain brunette across the room. He's immediately intrigued, something we find out doesn't ever happen. He's in for quite the shock, however, when the woman immediately turns the tables on him for a change.

"Let me introduce myself. In polite company I go by Bella Swan, but in hushed whispers I've been called the Man-maker." I watch as she winks and runs her little tongue across her bottom lip. I swallow, hard. "I'm a specialist at taking boys like yourself and turning them into men. I've never failed. Not once." 

Ohhh, it seems like Miss Swan has a secret or two herself. That's what makes this story so refreshing. It's impossible to tell what everyone's angles are at this point. Bella obviously knows more about Edward than she lets on. Her mother, Renée, is the wealthy widow of the founder of the charity the benefit is for. Jasper is her half-brother who from first appearances, definitely gives the impression that there might be something else going on.

I'm telling you, after only two chapters, you'll find yourself wondering what the hell is happening and waiting anxiously for the next update. Sexual Napalm has it all: mystery, complex characters, the promise of hot lemons, writing that is refreshingly original, and a plot that can go any number of directions. I have no idea where it's going to end up, but I do know I'll be along for the ride until the end. Read it now … catch up and strap in. I think it's going to be an exciting one!

New Fic of the Week: 5/16 - 5/22

The Elusive Mr. Cullen by dariachenowith

http://www.fanfiction.net/s/6972004/1/The_Elusive_Mr_Cullen

Review by Les16

Rating: M
Genre: Romance/Angst
Characters: Edward/Bella

Summary: Bella is a high class escort, Edward her newest client. They soon realize that there's more between them than great sex and witty conversations. While Bella doesn't believe in fairy tales, her life seems to be turning into one fast. Or is it? AH/OOC

At only 4 chapters in, I have to say this story, The Elusive Mr. Cullen, more than lives up to its name. When I was asked to read this story for this week's review, I have to admit, I did an embarrassingly giddy happy dance. If you've read some of dariachenowith's other amazing works, you surely understand why. She is incredibly talented, with a unique way of approaching even the most taboo of topics with class and wit, and The Elusive Mr. Cullen, thus far, is no different.

dariachenowith writes complex, multilayered characters and she tells you that up front. Her Bella and Edward aren't your typical Twilight fare, so be ready for that going in, but also be prepared to be find yourselves involved in what makes them tick right from the get go. Case in point - the very first line of the story:

Women are complicated. Men are easy. I prefer easy. That's why I'm a whore.

Bella Swan in The Elusive Mr. Cullen, is indeed a whore. A high-class one to be sure and she's not the least bit embarrassed about what she does either. dariachenowith's Bella is refreshingly bold and confident and as honest as she can be considering her line of work. I love that. She's learned from the best seeing as Rose is her Madam and there is definitely a love/hate relationship there that I can't wait to see more of.

We meet Mr. Cullen in Chapter 2 and the chemistry between the two is immediately apparent.

He's in his mid-thirties, tall, trim, attractive, very easy on the eye, but it's his obvious confidence that draws me in. I like men who know what they want, and it only takes a second to see that he is definitely one of them.

Of course, if you're like me, the very first question that pops into your head is why on Earth does someone like him need the services of someone like Bella? During their introduction it is also apparent that there is a connection there, and on a level that goes beneath the sexual, though there is no doubting that either. Especially because after the preliminary introductions are over, Edward asks for Bella to masturbate in front of him. A request she is most willing to fulfill.

"Why don't you show me how you like to be touched? I want to watch you make yourself come right here in front of me on the table."

"Now we're talking," I whisper, then extricate myself from him.

If you have any question about Bella's confidence in herself, don't.

I have one rule, mostly to myself – I don't fake. I love sex, or else I wouldn't do my job. When a client wants me to come for him, I do.

The rest of their first night proceeds much the same way, after he takes her to dinner where they engage in adult, sometimes flirty conversation. This is going to be an interesting match to be sure and I'm dying to see where dariachenowith takes this story. So far it has the perfect blend of strong characters, brilliant dialogue, a bit of intrigue, and some very hot, steamy lemons. Give The Elusive Mr. Cullen a try. Knowing her other work, this one is going to be every bit as good, and as a bonus she's updating on Tuesdays and Fridays, so hurry and read. You have plenty of time to catch up!

WIP of the Week: 5/2 - 5/8

Seeing Bella by sherryola

http://www.fanfiction.net/s/6579398/1/Seeing_Bella

Review by Les16

Rating: M
Genre: Romance
Characters: Edward/Bella

Summary: Alice has a vision of a girl with no vision. She will either save Edward from his life of lonely brooding, or she will destroy him with his destruction of her. Can Bella discover the Cullen family secret if she can't see? Canon vamps and couples. AU

I was so excited when I got to choose a story to rec for this week! I've been reading Seeing Bella almost since the beginning and I fall in love with it more after every chapter sherryola posts. It's so well-written, so full of beautiful imagery, and it will seriously melt your heart it's so sweet.

Let's face it, we all love SM's Twilight. If we didn't we sure wouldn't love this fandom as much as we do, but we can also all admit that there were a few things...and maybe more than a few if we're honest, that we wish SM would have done differently. If you're like me, some of Bella's personality traits and especially those of our favorite vampire were a tad...annoying. In Seeing Bella, sherryola has managed to take all the best parts of every character and tweak them so that you will love them even more. Her story is a re-telling of Twilight with some fabulous twists and turns along the way.

You see, in Seeing Bella, Bella is blind, but don't let that fool you. She is as strong and independent as she can be and it is such a refreshing change. There are subtle differences between sherryola's characters and SM's, but they make all the difference in the world. Edward is still protective and worries about his mate, but they talk things through. With Bella being blind, you would think he would be even more overprotective, but he's not. The dynamics between all the characters has been changed and tweaked in such a way that everything just flows and blends together so well.

"Anyway, I guess my biggest objection to you becoming a vampire is that history. Bella, I don't want you to feel that bloodlust. I don't want you to have to live with the anguish of taking a human life, if you were to slip."

"But I have all of you," she said, "None of you would let me do anything to hurt another person or anything that could cause me such guilt and pain, particularly not you. I know you'd keep me safe, even from myself."

"I promise you I would keep you safe."

"I realize nothing can happen right now," she said, "We shouldn't do anything till after I graduate from high school, but I hope we can continue to discuss it. Charlie would expect me to leave after high school, go to college and all, so it would be a good time for my change, if we decide to do it."

"Of course we will continue to discuss it," he said, "We can make the decision together and plan for it, if you decide you want this life. Ultimately, the decision is mostly up to you, as it's your life, your human life, you would be giving up."

All the characters we know and love are on full display in Seeing Bella, and sherryola has truly made them her own. The canon characteristics we are all so familiar with are present and accounted for, but Sherry has done a masterful job making them...better.

There is enough drama, because we are talking about a very human Bella here, to keep the reader wanting more. James, Victoria, and Laurent all make an appearance, as do the wolves. Bella goes to Port Angeles with Jessica and Angela, but what happens is different than in the original Twilight. Jake is…Jake, but he’s different as well. Bella being blind makes the entire story dynamic different and it’s so interesting to read about Bella navigating her world while being immersed in the world of vampires and shape-shifters.

Had James sent one of his coven to the other door? She dropped to the floor, wrapping her arms around her body, trying to make herself small and invisible. It wasn't rational, but she was acting on instinct, out of pure fear. She huddled on the floor, crying.

"Shhhh, it's me, Bellarina," she heard Emmett's voice say, "I'm here to get you away."

He swooped her up into his arms and ran out of the house.

"You're ok now," he soothed her, "You're ok; you're safe."

Bella clung to him.

"Emmett, thank you," she sobbed, "But, what about the others? Is Edward-?"

She stopped. She couldn't ask. She couldn't think about anything possibly happening to Edward, or to any of the others.

Rose rushed up to them.

"They're ok, Bella," she tried to reassure her, "Edward distracted James, so Emmett could get you out of the house. Don't worry. We're taking you back to our house till it's over."

"No, I want to go back," Bella struggled against Emmett's hold, "They might need you both to help them. Please, I've got to know what's happening!"

I can't say enough about this story, but I can't give you any details either without giving all her surprises away. Seeing Bella is a light, sweet story perfect for when you've had a bad day, need a pick me up, or just simply want to read a well-written, totally-engaging story! Give Seeing Bella a try. I promise you won't be sorry!!

WIP of the Week: 4/11 - 4/17

Beside Still Waters by AmyZini

http://www.fanfiction.net/s/6285049/1/Beside_Still_Waters

Review by Les16

Rating: M
Genre: Angst/Hurt/Comfort
Characters: Edward/Bella

Summary: Separated by years, yet tied to each other through the birth of a child, Edward and Bella struggle to work together when confronted with the unthinkable.

If you are looking for a story that will draw you in and then stick with you, kind of like that favorite song you can't stop singing in your head, then Beside Still Waters by AmyZini is the perfect story for you. It's a lovely, well written, and honestly, kind of a difficult story to read. It starts out with a shock, Edward and Bella are divorced, have been for years now, and Edward simply just walked away leaving Bella to raise their daughter. No explanation, no warning, just gone.

So, right away we're already wanting answers...answers AmyZini gives a tiny bit at a time. You would probably get frustrated by the lack of information, but for one thing. We find out really quick that little Gracie is sick...really sick. She's been diagnosed with a brain tumor, cancer, so the story quickly shifts focus.

The writing in this story is flawless and even though the chapters are short, I promise you will not mind a bit. There is so much information disclosed in those chapters, you will surely be amazed. AmyZini's characters are all well developed multifaceted people. Bella could easily come off as stubborn and bitter, but instead you find yourself wondering how she's managed so well for so long by herself. Edward, you would think you would want to hate him, knowing he abandoned his wife and child, but instead you want to find out what drove him away. There are layers upon layers to her characters, and you find yourself anxiously awaiting for each one to be peeled away.

Staring at the man before me, it was hard to remember how he once personified everything I held dear. What had changed him from the teenage boy willing to dive into the ocean to save a stranger, to someone who could walk out on his wife and infant daughter?

I'd seen no hint of weakness in him in the beginning. He was always so sure of the right path—unfailingly strong in his convictions and belief in forever. You are my gravity he would whisper to me before drifting off to sleep. And in those days, I believed him.

But gravity shifts, and suddenly you find yourself hurtling through space alone.

As Grace's condition becomes even more dire, Bella is forced to live with Edward because his house is closer to the hospital and they both want to do whatever they can to help their daughter. They fall into a sort of uneasy truce, each circling around the other, but neither stopping long enough to talk. As it should be, Grace is their primary concern, but how long can they continue to avoid the elephant in the room? How long can Bella stubbornly refuse to ask for the answers she deserves, how long will Edward keep letting his guilt eat away at him?

Edward and Bella have a multitude of issues to deal with while trying to care for their sick daughter. Meddling mothers, well meaning friends, too many years of unanswered questions, guilt, and disillusionment all come together to make a story that is as gripping as it is heartbreaking. Underlying all of this, there is a sense of hope, though a hope for what is soon to know. I am very anxious to see where AmyZini takes this story, but I know I can't wait to find out. Add Beside Still Waters to your list of must read's, you won't be sorry!

Les16 Rec of the Week: 3/28-4/3

Blood & Glory by Drotuno

http://www.fanfiction.net/s/6755101/1/Blood_and_Glory

Review by Les16

Rating: M
Genre: Hurt/Comfort/Romance
Characters: Edward/Bella

Summary: The definition of a mercenary is a soldier for hire. Secret identities, smart and strong women, a fight to keep loved ones safe, and maybe love and friendship along the way. Canon couples. AH/AU/ Rated M for lots of reasons, including violence and lemons

If you were going to make a list of all the qualities a good story must have, what would you include? A plot that pulls you in from the very first word? A leading man that is part bad-ass, part love-sick fool with a hint of mystery that is also drop dead gorgeous all thrown in for good measure? How about a leading lady that can give as good as she gets; is strong, yet vulnerable and sensitive at the same time...beautiful and snarky but is also damaged...but not broken? Or, how about a supporting cast full of unique individuals, each with their own talents and personalities, that as a whole make up a group of people you've never seen before? What about a story that has lots of action? We're talking guns, explosions, helicopters...just to name a few? What if said story had lemons so hot they curled your toes and melted ice cubes?

If any or all of the above is what you look for when picking out your next fic to read...look no further than Drotuno's Blood and Glory...because it has everything I've mentioned...and then some.

Drotuno throws the readers right into the middle of the action as soon as the story starts. You see, Edward Cullen is a mercenary, otherwise known as a soldier-for-hire, that works for his father, Carlisle. Edward's 'team' consists of Jasper the sniper, Emmett the explosives specialist, and Mickey...not Michelle, the girl that can break into anything. They've been to hell and back together, seen and done things no one but them understands, but Carlisle needs their help once someone very special to him becomes the target of some very unsavory people.

They were my brothers and my sister. They'd taken hits, punches, and bullets for me, and I'd done the same for them. We'd taken down small armies, dictators, and even whole governments, all for an unbelievable paycheck. We lived for the thrill, the adrenaline, and the money.

Enter Bella, the woman that is about to turn Edward's world upside down without even trying. Unbeknownst to her, she winds up in the middle of a huge mess...one of her estranged father, Charlie's, doing. It will be up to Edward, his team, and Carlisle to find her, before it's too late.

Bella is a private investigator and with the help of her silent partner, Carlisle, runs Gravity. When Bella turns up missing, Bella's girls help Edward and Carlisle, led by none other than Alice. She is the computer expert that can hack into anything who also just happens to be an electronic guru as well. Mack or Makenna who has a photographic memory and can draw any face she's ever seen and Rose...well, she's just an all-around bad-ass that you don't want to mess with.

The first few chapters move at a fast, furious clip, and lucky for you all, there are now 13 chapters posted so you won't be stuck waiting with bated breath for the next chapter! Believe me when I say you'll be on the edge of your seats in no time.

Drotuno has done an amazing job of weaving heart-stopping action with the very real aspects of dealing with a harrowing experience. There is anger, there is fear and tears, and then there is the process of healing, all done in the midst of a crisis.

"Bella," Carlisle groaned, but I wasn't having it.

"No! I'm done. We'll eat, and he can go play informant tomorrow," I yelled. "I have my own problems to deal with. Like avoiding getting killed by a psychopath…stopping a senator from taking his wife for every dime she's got just, because he likes them young and violent…and getting my girls back to their respective homes safely. I think they've been uprooted long enough. The sooner he goes, the sooner you get these assholes off my back. Mm'kay?" I asked, pointing to my father.

The whole room was still and silent, except for Rose. She was laughing her ass off quietly at the back of the room.

"Well, thank fucking God and all that's holy," she sighed. "Bells is back."

Edward fights his growing feelings for the feisty, stubborn Bella and she fights hers just as hard for the brooding, moody Edward. There are fireworks, there are angry words thrown back and forth, there is flirting and homemade apple pie which all makes for some interesting reading.

"I don't answer to you, Edward. I've told you that before, and you need to start listening," she snapped, and fuck, it wasn't the time to notice how fucking gorgeous she was when she folded her arms across her chest, set her jaw, and tilted her chin in defiance. "We could put it to a vote..."

"No fucking vote," I growled, throwing my hands in the air. "I can't risk it. I just can't. We'll pack up, and we're out of here by tomorrow morning."

"No!" she snapped back, her hands on her hips. "I don't want to run from him, Edward. You told me he doesn't deserve the best of me, and the best of me would fight. I'm staying here."

I picked up the bar stool closest to me and threw it out the back sliding glass door, because she was using my own words against me. "Damn it!" I growled, watching it shatter down the steps, before turning back to the room.

I'm telling you, if you don't read this story, you are missing out! It's got it all - action, romance, some lighthearted moments all mixed together to make for the perfect story. Drotuno has a way of telling a story that is as compelling as it is brilliant. She'll suck you right in to the world of hired killers, of running for your life, of fighting for what you believe...so much so you won't want to leave!!

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Les16 Rec of the Week: 1/31-2/6

Truth, Lies and Alibis by eternally addicted

http://www.fanfiction.net/s/6233308/1/

Review by Les16

Rating: M
Genre: Romance/Mystery
Characters: Edward/Bella

Summary: FBI psychologist Bella Swan is being stalked by one of criminals she helped put behind bars. Forced to leave her home and lay low for a while, she meets the most gorgeous man she has ever seen. Is he who he says he is, or is he working for the stalker?

If you are looking for a story that will keep you on the edge of your seat from the word go, eternally addicted's Truth, Lies and Alibis is exactly what you need. It starts off with a bang, as Bella has to take an immediate and very necessary leave of absence from her job as an FBI psychologist/profiler and head to the island of Capri off the coast of Italy to get away from a very dangerous criminal she's just helped put behind bars. You see, our feisty and sassy Agent Swan has a very unique gift...she's an empath. She can read emotions and even more than that, can tell when a suspect is lying...a very handy gift for one who is an FBI agent, huh?

James Reynolds, the serial rapist/murderer becomes obsessed with our FBIella and has figured out a way to threaten her and even send her messages from behind bars. In order to remain out of his clutches, her boss, Emmett, thinks it's best if she go away for awhile.

"Damn it, Isabella, I'll suspend you if you don't willingly take a leave of absence," Special Agent McCarty snarled at me. I snorted and smiled at his attempt to threaten me by using my full name.

In order to get away and yet still remain close to family, Bella decides a visit to her Nana in Italy is in order. She arrives in Capri and immediately is bombarded with all the available men her well-meaning Nana has tried to set her up with. After a few weeks of dating torture, Bella convinces her Nana to let her be and decides to take a walk along the beach. Of course it's on this beach we get our first glimpse of Edward Cullen. When Bella encounters Edward, the very first thing she notices is...her gift doesn't work on him...at all. She can read nothing from him, so for the first time in her life, she must rely on her instincts and not her gift.

I hated where my thoughts were now taking me. Was our meeting just a coincidence after all? The first night probably was, but he had known where to find me after that. And interestingly enough he seemed to appear at just the right moment when I'd be outside to see him on the beach. Nana had written his appearance off as a deduction of the obvious, that her house was the only other location from which I could have come from. But was that really the case? Could he have already known where I'd be?

Right away, Bella and the readers are plagued with the thought, is he a good guy or was he sent by James? We have no way of knowing right away, and even when we find out why Edward just happens to be there, there are enough questions and coincidences to keep everyone guessing.

As Bella and Edward grow closer, both falling hard and fast, a surprise and very unexpected delivery arrives for Bella from James, sending Bella into a tailspin. She's convinced herself that Edward is not who he says he is, and rushes back to Seattle, Edward and Nana in tow. She is in even more danger when she returns, and after some convincing, is put under protection...again...much to Bella's extreme displeasure.

You told me to look at you all I want. It doesn't bother you?"

"No. It lets me know you're still interested. And, Bella, as long as I know you're still interested, I know there's still hope that things will work out between us."

"Oh," I whispered not knowing what else to say.

We remained silent the rest of the way to the federal building. He parked his mustang in my assigned spot and then escorted me up to the series of offices where the bureau was located. He then gently squeezed my hand and said he'd see me around five. I nodded and headed towards my office.

I heard someone behind me and glancing over my shoulder saw Jessica coming up behind me.

"Who's the hot stud, Swan?"

As the story progresses, it's discovered that James Reynolds has an accomplice, and it's one that comes from the very FBI office Bella works out of. The list of suspects is long...it could be anyone from Jessica...the supposed lesbian who has an unnatural interest in Bella's personal life, Jake who has had his advances rejected time and time again by Bella, even Seth and Tyler, both fellow agents...or Sam, the IT/tech gear guy. No one knows and everyone is a suspect.

In the midst of a dangerous game of cat and mouse, of intrigue and suspicion, Bella's personal life takes a turn she never expected. Caught up in a whirlwind romance, she must do all she can to figure out whom she can and can’t trust. Our villain, James has made it perfectly clear he'll stop at nothing until he has Bella for his own and Bella has to figure out how to stop him, before he hurts someone she loves.

"We both know what you are to me, my darling. And one day, one day very soon, we will be together just like we were meant to be."

I'd had enough of Reynolds' arrogant bullshit. His last statement not only creeped me out, but it reminded me I needed to move this visit along. It was wearing on me and I couldn't imagine it was easy on Edward to be watching either. "Who is helping you, James?"

"No one of importance. Just admit that I fascinate you and that you want to be with me and I can quit having others do my bidding for me. You can help me. You understand me like the others didn't. You make me tell the truth. I need you to save me."’

Eternally addicted has woven a tale of mystery and suspense with plenty of drama and romance thrown in for good measure. It will keep you on the edge of your seat as you try to figure out who is helping James and what his ultimate goal is. If you like your stories to have a sassy, fierce Bella...and let’s face it, who doesn't...then Truth, Lies and Alibis is for you. If you like your stories to keep you engaged and scrolling through, hoping you're not at the end yet because you've been so engrossed in masterful storytelling, then Truth, Lies and Alibis is for you. If you want to get sucked into a world of intrigue and romance...then Truth, Lies and Alibis is definitely for you.

"What, are you doubting what I'm telling you, Princess?"

"I'm not your fucking princess and yeah actually I do.’

This is an amazing piece of work by eternally addicted and is full of characters that are complex and wonderfully developed. You’ll find yourself engaged and wanting to more, you’ll find yourself getting lost in the details and vivid imagery, you’ll find yourself rooting for Bella and the rest of her team as they do whatever they can to figure out how to stop James and his accomplice...whoever he or she is.
Read it...now...I promise you won't be sorry!

Completed Fic of the Week: 11/22-11/28

Housemating Season by AngryBadgerGirl

http://www.fanfiction.net/s/5118963/1/Housemating_Season

Reviewed by Les16

Rating: M
Genre: Romance/Humor
Characters: Edward/Bella

Summary: Bella's a freshman at Dartmouth who lives with 5 upperclassmen, including broody Edward, a vegetarian with a fixation on vampires. Plot line similar to the original Twi novel w/o the cockblocking and with more laughs. LEMONS, AH, canon pairings, BPOV.

If you are looking for a story that mixes all the best parts of Edward...sweet, protective, and sexy as all get out...and adds in a touch of jerkward and angst, you would get Housemating Season by AngryBadgerGirl. In the story, we start off with Bella embarking on an adventure when she is accepted at Dartmouth. Bella is clumsy and well, you can't help but laugh at how she always manages to trip and fall at just the wrong time. She has been assigned housing where she lives with upperclassmen. Rosalie, the fashion model, Emmett, the star football player, Jasper the good ole southern boy, Alice the artist, and then there's Edward...the vegetarian, vampire loving enigma.

Bella and Edward's first meeting follows a softball to the head and Edward of course comes to Bella's rescue. The attraction they both feel for the other is immediate, but complications arise. Enter Jerkward but our Bella doesn't take his nastiness lying down. Nope, this Bella is feisty and speaks her mind, often speaking without thinking, which just makes you fall in love with her more. If you love your Bella's with some spunk, you have picked the right story. Assward...Wank Stain...Anal Wart...these are just a few of the choice names Bella has given to Edward when he's being totally clueless.

The relationship that develops between Edward and Bella is just as sweet and tender as it is passionate and hot. Between sneaking into bedrooms through open windows, amazing first dates, and Edward
calling her Bella sweetness, you'll fall as much in love with Edward as Bella does. It's impossible not to. With lines like this, you can see how AngryBadgerGirl has captured all the overwhelming emotions you feel when you first fall in love.

"But it's not just your face Bella, it's your mannerisms, your demeanor, the way you can look like angel and a bombshell both at the same time," he says, his smoldering green eyes flashing with intensity as he speaks. "I've never been so completely captivated by someone before, and I don't think I ever will again."

It's not all sunshine and roses though. There are some ups and downs as they each learn and grow both as individuals and as a couple. Edward has issues, a multitude of them, but Bella doesn't let that deter her from what she wants, and she wants Edward. There is some angst and Jerkward acts like...well a jerk, but Bella sets him straight in a way that will make you smile...just make sure you can take a cold shower afterward!

Housemating Season by AngryBadgerGirl should be on everyone's list of must read's. The story has it all and you'll run the gamut of emotions from start to finish. You'll laugh, you'll cheer, you'll cry, and you'll have to fan yourself from time to time. By the time you reach the last sentence, you will have read a great, great story! Give this one a read, you won't be sorry!

Banner by JaimeArkin

Brand New Fic of the Week: 11/15-11/21

The Greatest Gift by Les16

 http://www.fanfiction.net/s/6458894/1/The_Greatest_Gift
Reviewed by Obsmama
 

Rating: M
Genre: Supernatural/Romance
Characters: Edward/Bella

Summary: Edward Cullen has the plane ride of his life when a mysterious flight companion changes his life in the blink of an eye. Edward will need the help of his wife, Isabella, to right the wrongs of his past before it's too late.

Ever wish you could change the past or right a wrong? Well, Edward Cullen is given the chance of a lifetime on a return flight from La Guardia to O'Hare. A man claiming to know everything about Edward and his seemingly perfect life offers him the chance to undo his mundane existence and live the life he was meant to live.

"What the hell do you want?" he demanded of the big man, tired of playing whatever game he was unwittingly a part of.


"I don't want anything, Edward Anthony Cullen. Like I said, my job, as it was put forth to me, is to help you get your life, such as it is, in order before it is your time to go," Seth told Edward.


"Go where?" Edward asked the Seth person…being. Whatever the hell he was.


Seth shrugged his shoulders at Edward and said, "Wherever it is you believe your soul goes after you die."


"You're telling me I'm going to die soon?" Edward asked Seth incredulously. "Impossible," he went on. "I'm young; I'm in perfect health. I have more money than I can spend in this lifetime…probably more than I can spend in ten lifetimes. I am a powerful man. I can have what I want, when I want. I am not going to die anytime soon," he stated emphatically.


Seth shrugged his shoulders at Edward and regarded him shrewdly. "Big deal, Eddie. You are rich and powerful. You think the world should bow at your feet and you have no time for those you have deemed unworthy of you. But you can't have everything you want. You can't buy immortality and you can't buy the affections of your lovely Isabella.”

Edward has let his life pass him by, he married the love of his life Isabella in a lavish wedding in Italy 5 years ago, and instead of cherishing each and every day with her they eat dinners alone and sleep in separate rooms. For no reason other than his inexplicable ability to turn off emotions and become cold and distant. The author has created characters that even 3 chapters in, I feel fully invested in. The love that is between this Edward and Bella is what fairy tales are made of, the problem lies that neither has the bravery to express it.

The second thing that Edward noticed was by far the most enchanting. There his wife lay, sleeping peacefully in the chaise while the wind kissed her skin with its soft breeze. Isabella Marie was the most exquisite and magnificent creature he had ever laid eyes on, and his heart filled with so many different things he couldn't name them all if he tried. Need, want, shame, guilt, but most of all love.

Deep, wondrous, everlasting love.

I cannot wait to see were this author takes us. Will our Edward make things with his Isabella right? We haven’t even dealt with the other people in Edward’s life, yet. As the mystery of this story thickens I am excited to see more of this authors beautiful words and interesting plot. It is a wonderfully original story that has a great start.

Banner by Jaimearkin

Completed Fic of the Week: 9/17-9/23

Dream A Little Dream by the.littlest.ingenue

 http://www.fanfiction.net/s/6117682/1/Dream_A_Little_Dream
Review by Les

Rating: M
Genre: Humor/Romance
Characters: Edward/Bella

Summary: All Human. Lots of fluff: What if the man of your dreams wasn't a dream at all? What if he was closer than you think? M for language and implied stuff. No angst, I promise.

Imagine this…your boyfriend breaks up with you. You get in a fight with your husband. You get a flat tire on your way to work. You spill coffee on your favorite shirt. After a horrible day, you finally make it home and all you want to do is change into comfy clothes and read something to take your mind off the day from hell you just had but you can’t decide what to read.

Well, look no further than Dream A Little Dream by the.littlest.ingenue. This funny, heart warming and whimsical story will lift your spirits if you are having a bad day and will make a good day even better. The writing is extraordinary and you will find yourself sucked in from the first word and it won’t let go until you get to the last one.

We begin this little tale with Bella and Angela discussing the ritual held on St. Agnes Eve where it is believed you will see your future husband in a dream if performed correctly. Bella’s best friend Angela…and let me tell you folks, this is the best Angela you will EVER find…convinces her to partake and with much resignation from our very sarcastic and super funny Bella, they sit in Bella’s back yard and prepare to see their future husbands.

Of course, Bella dreams of a certain bronze haired, green eyed, chiseled jawed image of perfection. And it takes time for this particular vision to come to fruition…years in fact. But Bella never wavers in her belief of something more and her dream husband searches for her just as much.

I laughed. I cried. I spit my drink out on my desk. Dream A Little Dream is short. Start to finish, it took me about an hour, but I promise it will be the best sixty minutes you will ever spend reading FanFiction. I can tell you, I will be reading, and rereading this story many times over…so many times I bet I have every word memorized and each time I will fall in love with it even more.
It’s that good.

Banner by JaimeArkin

Les16's Rec of the Week: 7/30-8/5

Empty Panes & Pretty Things by AydenMorgen

 http://www.fanfiction.net/s/5591160/1/Empty_Panes_Pretty_Things

Reviewed by Les16

Rating: M

Genre: Romance/Hurt/Comfort
Characters: Bella/Edward

Summary: Bella only wanted to survive the terror of her memories, but when Edward appears in her life, she realizes she wants something more. Will she let him put her together again or will their broken pasts bury them both? AH/OOC. Rated M. Indie Twific Nominee

You know how you stumble across a story, one that you weren’t really searching for, and it becomes something that moves you, sucks you in and completely captivates you? That happened to me when I was searching for a new story and thankfully found AydenMorgen’s Empty Panes & Pretty Things. I started reading late at night and found myself still reading hours upon hours later, too immersed in the intricate story to stop long enough for something as lame as sleeping.

Empty Panes is a story about two people’s search for healing, forgiveness and ultimately true love. It isn’t an easy journey…if you’re going to read, which is a must for anyone who considers themselves a true connoisseur of must read fan fiction….you will need to steel yourself for some difficult chapters to get through. But I promise you, you will be rewarded for your perseverance in the end.

The story starts with our Bella; a snarky, feisty and foul mouthed broken girl and she completely turns Edward’s world upside down in the blink of an eye. From the very first chapter, Edward is done for. Oh their first few encounters are a bit rocky…okay a lot rocky. With comments like, “I slammed the bolt home and sank to my knees, shaking in fury. Of all the nerve! Who the hell did he think he was? The second fucking coming of Christ?” Has there ever been a better term for Edward than ‘Second Coming’? I mean, come on, its perfection!

Edward does slowly and painfully begin to tear down Bella’s carefully and extremely solid walls tiny bit by tiny bit. The turning point comes when something (and I don’t want to spoil it!) happens to Bella and it is Edward who saves her…in every possible way. Sure, he protects her physically, but it is the healing he helps her do to her soul that is gut wrenching.

Totally rip your heart out gut wrenching…but it is so, so beautiful to watch.

Edward must face his own demons while helping Bella navigate her path to forgiveness. The burden of guilt that Edward carries around is astounding and it is only his love for Bella that keeps him from crumbling under the enormous weight of it all. Our beloved Edward never does anything half-assed, that is for sure, and his absolute need to make Bella safe and whole is just one example of that.

Jasper and Alice…and my God you will love Ayden’s Jasper…enter the picture as Edward begins to crumble under the pressure of keeping Bella and himself from drowning in their guilt and pain. Edward convinces Bella to leave to face her demons and he, in turn, faces his own. In most stories and in most cases, it makes sense for them to face things together. In this case, the only option is the most painful one. Edward and Bella must go forward alone so that they can meet at the end…free from the burdens that they have carried for so long.

I’m telling you, you have never read anything more gripping, more moving, than these two beautiful, shattered, but so very strong people as they fight and claw their way back to one another. Have plenty of tissues handy, you will need them. Empty Panes & Pretty Things is a story that will make you feel things you have never felt before and it will stick with you long after the final word is read.

Completed Fic of the Week: 7/16-7/22

Silence and Security by adorablecullens

 http://www.fanfiction.net/s/4754685/1/Silence_Security
Reviewed by Les16

Summary: Two years after her marriage to Jacob Black ends, 37-year-old single mom Bella buys a house. Will the handsome single dad next door help her learn to love again? Or will Edward's presence in their life only reinforce Renee's trauma-induced silence?


If you are looking for the perfect story to read on a rainy Sunday or something you can read at work (because really, we all know we do it if we can get away with it), Silence & Security by adorablecullens is just the thing for you. This story is a great mix of drama, romance, and suspense plus the pace is absolutely perfect. I had read this story before and it was even more enjoyable the second go round. That is really saying something in the fanfic world! Adorablecullens’ story will definitely stay with you after you have finished and I guarantee it will be on your list of favorites for a long time to come.

Silence & Security is the story of an older Edward and Bella. The characterizations of both are a refreshing change from their normal portrayal. Adorablecullens has developed a completely well rounded Edward and Bella, and has given them the maturity and wisdom that come with age. Both are parents of little girls and Bella’s daughter Renee suffers from elective mutism due to a traumatic experience. Edward is happy with where he is in his life even though he has divorced from a surprisingly nice Tanya (which is a refreshing change from what we would normally see). Edward is portrayed as a normal guy, one who is content to be a normal dad and do normal things with his daughter. Oh, there are peeks and glimpses of the canon Edward we all love so much. He still questions whether or not he is worthy of Bella but this vulnerability is, of course, one of the reasons why we all love him so much.

Bella’s story is much more tragic than that of Edward’s and it is one that will definitely pull at your heart strings. Both she and Renee have suffered so much, but it is Bella’s strength and the love she has for her daughter that pulls them through their tragedy. Watching her open herself up to the possibility of finding love with Edward is poignant to witness and you will find yourself cheering for her as you read the story.

All of our beloved characters are present along with the additions of Edward’s daughter Lily and Bella’s daughter Renee. Together, all of these are excellent complements to the story. The children add depth and emotion but do not over shadow the love story. Neither do the other characters, and adorablecullens has done an excellent job of portraying our favorite Cullen family without making them domineering and intrusive. The family just wants Edward to be happy, and they help him navigate his relationship with Bella and her daughter with amazing grace and support.

Silence & Security is a well written, beautiful love story of two people who have seen much and experienced more. They are grownups driven by passion and devotion and Edward and Bella are still our favorite people, just older and wiser. The story is original and the alternating points of views she uses are complementary and not redundant at all. Silence & Security is a sweet, feel good story and I promise you will not be sorry if you read it. You will read it again and again!

Banner by JaimeArkin

WIP of the Week: 7/16-7/22

Fuggiasco by kdc2239

 http://www.fanfiction.net/s/5961148/1/Fuggiasco
Review by Les16

Summary: Edward, homeless since age twelve is used to the gritty, hard life. Now twenty, his main goal is to make it in the world, and off the streets. What happens when a girl who seems to be broken beyond repair becomes his new shadow?

Kdc2239’s Fuggaisco is a gritty tale of a homeless Edward and Bella that takes place in the city of Portland, Oregon. There is a great attention to detail in this story and the grim realities of being homeless are pointed out in a stark reality. Being homeless isn’t glamorous; it’s a hard, soul killing life and kdc pulls no punches.

Edward and Bella meet when he saves her from an attack. She is new to this life and her story is surrounded in mystery. She doesn’t even give Edward her real name, just picks a name off a cardboard box as they try to rest in a dingy alley. Edward has been on the streets since he was twelve years old and once he saves her, she becomes his unwanted shadow.

Bella is a skittish mess, and through the hints that kdc gives in bits and pieces; we can only guess that her story is horrific. Bella is like a puzzle you want to put together, but all the pieces aren’t there to be able to do it yet. There is violence all around Edward and Bella and through kdc’s amazing writing skills; we see glimpses of canon Edward. He wants to protect Bella at all costs, even if he has to risk himself to do so.

Edward hasn’t let street life destroy his humanity and his through his affection to Bella, as it continues to grow, we are able to see how they help each other. The story is realistic and poignant but there is reason to hope. The story pulls you in. It makes you want to jump into their world and just help them because…well because they are Edward and Bella.

Banner by Whatobsession17

Brand New Fic of the Week: 6/4-6/10

Night Must Fall by Katinki http://www.fanfiction.net/s/6000661/1/Night_Must_Fall
Review by Les16

Summary: In a world of night, of darkness, shadows known as the Volturi reign supreme. Their word is law, unquestioned and unchallenged. A word has been spoken. She has been condemned to die. AU/M for themes/violence/language/sexual situations.

If you are looking for a dark, graphic, and haunting A/U vampire story, then Katinki’s Night Must Fall is perfect for you. Katinki’s unparalleled attention to detail weaves a visually evocative story of Edward who is a slave to the Volturi and wears the black cloak as one of the most treasured of Aro’s possessions. This is a different reality for most fan fiction readers to stumble upon. Edward is not a part of the Cullen family, he drinks human blood, and he has never laid eyes on Bella.

The story builds slowly, much like a horror film. There is a sinister feel to the beginning chapters as we learn a bit about Edward. He is most obviously bored and apathetic with his existence but he is resigned to performing his duties because he sees no other options. Katinki lends a haunting feel to the story with sentences like “I’m sorry. You will not suffer. You will feel no pain. Go to your God.” And the feeling is even more authenticated with her proficient use of both Latin and Italian. Edward is sent on a mission to find out more about the Cullen family…and Bella; a human who knows more than she is supposed to.

Her Bella is studying anthropology and is obsessed with medieval superstition. Of course, this comes from her abandonment of the Cullen family over seven years ago and she is on a desperate search to find out all she can of her beloved adopted family and best friend Alice. Is this what has alerted the Volturi to her presence? We don’t know, yet, but I am sure Katinki will keep us on the edge of our seats as we wait to find out.

There is a definite skill needed to write dark tales and Katinki possesses them all. The slow build, the effective use of visualization, the fear of the unknown. In just the few chapters that have been posted so far, she has managed an amazing depth of characterization and we are all left wondering if Edward will somehow turn into the vampire we all know and love or if he will continue to remain one of the most treasured member of the Volturi?