Recommended Fanfics

Okay, here's a list of some fanfics I personally recommend and why, organized by fandom. Note: I usually steer clear of romance and 'ship fics, so if you see a fic that falls in that category here, it must be good. (If it's an Ian/Sara, it must be good to get on this list.) I am recommending stories here, not authors, so not all my faves are going to be here - just the best (in my opinion) of my favorites. Series will be listed as one entry if they're long enough. Thanks to the folks on the BetterBuffyFics mailing list and to Selma for her PR Recs site for pointing me in the direction of some of these.

All fanfics listed on here are COMPLETED fanfics, with one or two exceptions. Occasionally, I stumble upon a work-in-progress that's been delayed for so long that I have to plug it now to get more readers to read it and to encourage the author to continue with feedback. And if you're wondering why your story isn't on here: I'm not done. Probably never will be with this list as long as there are still good fic authors out there to fill it up.

Stupid Portal, by Tara Keezer
What: Buffy and Spike get sucked into a 'verse not their own, courtesy of the Troika. Giles follows. Prophecy happens. BtVS S6/ST:TNG.
Why: Dude. I should hate this. It should not work. Yet, it really, really clicked for me. Everyone on both sides is in character - even Giles, whose sudden magic-induced frustrations have a basis in the situation. (Yes, this is a shot at someone I discussed the fic with who was trying to bash it.) There's an OFC in the mix who I genuinely ended up liking, Worf's attraction to Buffy is just damned funny, and Giles and Buffy's complicated relationship is handled beautifully. It helps that Buffy and Spike just can't take the TNG crew seriously. I also liked the even-handed way Tara dealt with early season six Spike and Buffy's inability to deal with their relationship of sorts. Oh, and Q drops in for a visit.

Lovers and Dreamers, by Alexia Eve
What: Lex Luthor buys Muppet Theatre. Chaos ensues. Or, to quote Kermit: "We have a pig who's head-over-hoofs in love with our new boss, talking corn who insulted him, an oddly violent scarecrow, and a missing billionaire! I'd say panicking is a valid choice." (Muppets/Smallville)
Why: This one is sheer, unadulterated wackiness from start to finish, and even a hint of Clark/Lex near the end doesn't manage to ruin the tone. (Yeah, I normally steer away from slash, but I didn't mind this time.) It's worth it just to read what happens to Lana. *snerk*

The Scarab, by BK the Irregular
What: An exile from the gods of ancient Egypt surfaces in California, at the Mouth of Hell. Stargate S4(?)/Buffy post-S4.
Why: It's a Buffy/Stargate crossover. That actually WORKS. Do you know how rare that is? Great characterization, well-paced plot (and a risky twist that DID work), and some character interaction we've all wanted to see. There's also a good deal of foreshadowing for both shows and some nice details (so when DID Teal'c first get to see Star Wars?), and when all is said and done, it still holds true to canon for both shows. Go read it and let Bruce know his 2 years of hard work paid off.

Like Minds, by Perri Smith
What: Angel S3/Dead Zone S1. Two Seers walk into a bar...
Why: Touching, honest, and blissfully ship-free, this crossover got me curious about "The Dead Zone." There are plenty of crossover fics written for the sole purpose of having two characters from different shows meet, and Perri knows how to do it right. A very necessary and sweet meeting of minds.

Runaway Trains at 3 A.M., by Christina
What: Smallville S1/BtVS S6. Dawn and Clark meet in the process of running away from home.
Why: A cute, sweet (but not sappy) and above all believable meeting that avoids a lot of crossover traps - there's even that time-honored sharing of secrets, but it comes completely naturally and isn't forced or contrived. As a bonus: a double dose of snarkiness at the end when Lex and Spike appear.

Lines of Communication, by Christina
What: Sequel to "Runaway Trains at 3 A.M." In which secrets are revealed, Clark and Dawn explain, and $362.57 of long distance charges are almost blamed on the Legion of Dorkness.
Why: Just as good as its predecessor, and Christina does a hell of a good job writing Dawn - even in full-on pouting-teenager mode, I never got sick of her. Buffy's reaction to Dawn's little trip and her confusion over just how to deal with it was wonderfully in-character, and the whole story was great. Holy mother of cellphones, indeed.

Opposites Attract, by Selma McCrory
What: A New Series Tomorrow People/Power Rangers Zeo crossover serial. The TP meet the Rangers, and one Ranger has to deal with the implications of becoming a Tomorrow Person themselves.
Why: Considering just how different the two series are, Selma makes it work - mainly because she keeps it understated, and doesn't waste time with the PR villains (which would be out of place here). It also sets up a great conflict - in the "current" timeline and in the future - between being a Ranger and being a Tomorrow Person, and the problems inherent in straddling both worlds. It's also got one of the few "children of the old Rangers" Ranger teams I really like.

A Union of Souls, by Michele Mason Bumbarger
What: The Tomorrow People (90's series)/Angel S1. Ami Jackson is saved by a mysterious stranger on the streets of L.A., and that's just the beginning of the surprises that await for both the Tomorrow People and the Fang Gang.
Why: Great, great characterization, effective original villains, Giles and Whistler show up, and there's a reason behind the crossover. Also set pre-"Hero," so there's plenty of Doyle goodness. First in a series, but it stands by itself.

Stranded In Space, by Caroline Fales
What: New Series Tomorrow People/MST3K. (not a MiSTing) Pearl decides that she needs another human to torture with bad movies.
Why: A rather silly premise, but you know... I could just see this happening.

The Screaming Ones, by Darryl Gillikin
What: BtVS S2/New Series Tomorrow People. The Scooby Gang visits London, meets the TP, and as usual trouble follows.
Why: A well set-up crossover, with great characterization and interaction between the Scoobies and the TP. Bonus points for Willow's pre-Oz crush on Adam.

The Prime Factor, by Kyrie Daniels
What: New Series Tomorrow People/Sliders/Highlander: The Series. Can't describe it accurately without re-skimming it, and darn it, I can't touch Xmission this morning!
Why: Set in the "Tomorrow's Future" universe, relies fairly heavily on the chronology of that series, but it's still worth taking the time to sit down and read this novella-length story. Kyrie has to juggle quite a bit in one crossover, and pulls it off smoothly.

Forever Tomorrow, by Michele Mason Bumbarger and Caroline Fales
What:A crossover serial between Highlander and The Tomorrow People (new series).
Why: You know, Catriona Fraser really could have been a Mary Sue, but Caroline's too good at writing her to let that happen. And Michele gets points for making me believe in - of all pairings - Richie Ryan and Ami Jackson.

With Human Blood and Human Tears, by Selma McCrory
What: New Series Tomorrow People/Highlander (Tomorrow's Future universe). Adam's feeling guilty after the events of "The Living Stones", and Greer tries to help him. However, she soon encounters an Immortal where he's not supposed to be...in the Watchers...
Why: Yes, I know, I know, it's smack in the middle of "Tomorrow's Future" (and you have to read "Differing Varieties" to understand it), but it's one of my faves, okay? If nothing else, just for the way Greer finally scares some sense into Adam. Oh, hell, here's the link to the whole Tomorrow's Future serial already.

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The Cruelest Month, by starlet2367
What: Angel S2, between "Epiphany" and "Disharmony." The Fang Gang investigates the murder of a young man trying to find sanctuary in Caritas - and work out their own issues at the same time.
Why: Stole the link off Bruce's LJ, but I'm glad I did. This is proof that the smallest ideas can bring out some damn good stories - I never thought a challenge involving Pez would bring such well-written results. Fits into continuity beautifully, with a fast-paced and entertaining main story. Lots of foreshadowing and setup, yet the story deals with the characters' issues without drowning itself in angst. Bonus: Merl actually gets to do some ass-kicking. The link works now!

Regression, by Gyrus and HonorH
What: Early Buffy S6/Angel S3. When a millionaire abducts Dawn to L.A. for an unholy experiment, the Scoobies and Angel Investigations cooperate to secure her return -- until Angel and Spike undergo a startling change. (Putting it under "Angel" because most of it takes place in LA.)
Why: I generally love anything these two write, but this just takes the cake. Even without the "twist" of Angel and Spike's personality regressions (I am NOT spoiling that any further), this is a great story. There's a gaggle of truly interesting original characters, the dialogue is sharp and in-character, and there isn't a hint of character-bashing. It's also largely 'ship-free and intensely funny, with some insightful moments - I particularly loved the brief glimpse of Buffy's stream of consciousness.

His Girl Friday, by Misty Flores
What: So 'Happily Ever After’ didn’t last forever, and now Cordelia’s ready to move past the mission, and on with her life, without Angel Investigations. Intent is always easier than execution, especially when Angel and company, aren't ready to let her go. Angel/Cordelia, Gunn/Fred, Wes/Faith. AU (assumes a much different chain of events post-"Tomorrow").
Why: The Fang Gang does "His Girl Friday," with riotous results. I love Misty's fics in general, but this one's going on the list because the sheer weirdness of it is so much fun. Lilah versus Faith, ex-evil lawyer Lindsey being useful, the return of Bethany, and the constant suffering of Cordy's hapless fiance had me rolling. It's an amusingly surreal and fast-moving story, and after all was said and done I actually bought the A/C pairing by the end.

As Time Goes By, by Yahtzee
What: In its own unexpected ways, the Hyperion Hotel remains the last help for the hopeless in the wasteland once known as L.A.
Why: The Angel cast (and Buffy) do "Casablanca" - and you might not expect who plays which role. A cool story that's fairly A/C without falling into that 'ship's usual traps (forgetting the existence of Buffy, shrugging off the difficulties inherent there), which includes a twist or two I didn't see coming. To quote Spike, "Well, this is just... neat!"

How to Date a Beautiful Woman, by Melissa Flores
What: Lorne has his hands full when three men who love three brunettes reveal three stories that meld surprisingly – and the three brunettes go missing. A/C, F/G, Wes/Faith. (No kidding.)
Why: I'm generally a non-shipper, and the prospect of Gunn/Fred, Angel/Cordelia and Wes/Faith in the same fic scared me. I shouldn't have worried; it's a believable, well-staged story that switches between past and present without confusing the reader. And none of the couples have it easy. Bonus points for a great, great standoff with Holtz, spot-on characterization, and an ending that made me laugh my head off. Not to mention a very realistic handling of Angel/Cordelia, which is hard to find in fanfic. (Additional note: I would have preferred THIS to the way they wrapped up season 3. Yeesh.)

Dawn and the Dead, by HonorH
What: Portents cause Buffy to panic and send Dawn to L.A. for the weekend. Who will survive the experience?
Why: Another of the few authors who can write Dawn so well. The whole week is a tour of Dawn's interactions with the Fang Gang in a variety of ways, and the voices are perfect, even if the author wasn't sure about her handle on Gunn, and some bits just made me laugh out loud. Followed by "Elegy for a Fallen Heroine" and "Ties that Bind."

Elegy for a Fallen Heroine, by HonorH
What: Angel, Wesley, and Cordelia - as well as a few more old friends - come to Sunnydale post-"Gift" to grieve and comfort. Sequel to "Dawn and the Dead;" followed by "Ties that Bind." Mainly a Buffy fic, but it's going here beside the two other entries in her trilogy.
Why: The author describes this as "plot-free angst, angst, angst, angst, angst," and, well, it is, but it's most definitely called for here. And it's angst that gets worked through properly, with some bittersweet bits to break up the mourning. The grief of the Scoobies and the Fang Gang, and the myriad ways they deal with it, is treated beautifully.

Ties that Bind, by HonorH
What: Post-Gift, Dawn comes to L.A. So does Spike. So does Rebecca Martin-Pryce, Wesley's adventure-seeking niece. And they may not even be the worst of the Fang Gang's problems. Sequel to "Elegy for a Fallen Heroine."
Why: Where can I begin? This one's my favorite in the trilogy, and aside from her usual spot-on characterization and a well-written A-plot (that ties into "Elegy" a bit), what I loved about this one was all the little details: Dawn reading David Eddings, Spike annoying Cordelia with Magnetic Poetry, Dawn's diary entries to Buffy, Angel's leather pants, Spike singing "I'm Henry the Eighth" to get into Caritas, "Otherworldly American" ... oh, just go read it.

In the Waiting, by Rheanna
What: Angelus is back. Or is he? Wesley and Cordelia bring in a psychiatrist who tries to find out what's going on with Angel.
Why: A very clever, dark, and insightful look into Angel's psyche - and don't let the summary fool you, this is certainly NOT a Mary Sue by any stretch of the imagination.

The Good Fight, by Naomi Chana
What: Angel-less Angel Investigations gets a new client - Ethan Rayne.
Why: A good pre-"Epiphany" fic that shows just how well the rest of the Fang Gang bonded without Angel. Also has plenty of classical research put into it, and Wesley outsmarting Ethan. Oh, and that lovely little revenge bit at the end - even if we don't get to see it - is priceless.
NOTE: Link does not work because the archive was taken down. Anyone know where I could find this fic?

Vivere, by Rheanna
What: What does it mean, to be alive? AU future fic.
Why: I would have never thought of this take on Angel's shanshu myself, not in a million years. Wonder if Rheanna would mind lending me a few of her creativity demons...

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Fan Fiction: The Library at Dha'Alasia
What: The fanfics of L.E. Bryce aka Granamyr, based on the "Blackstar" cartoon. Rather than just link every single story of hers, I'm just linking the whole page.
Why: I think I actually saw some of "Blackstar" when it was on or in repeats somewhere. But I'm not sure. I don't really remember the original cartoon, but that's not a problem here: Gran's writing goes WAY beyond the cartoon, and trademarks aside, she's taken the universe and made it her own. I would not have found her stuff had I not stumbled across the He-Man/Blackstar crossovers she also wrote, and I'm exceedingly glad I did. Set aside some free time and bury yourself in her fanfic universe; you won't be sorry.

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Seven Summers, by Annakovsky
What: Seven summers of Xander's life, in short. Spoilers for all seasons.
Why: It's a poignant, clever, beautiful series of vignettes that get us into Xander's head in the lull after seasons. Favorite passage: "As they lay together, sweaty, her curled up on his chest, he was more aware than ever that their skins were like barbed-wire fences, keeping each other out. That no matter how close you got to someone, you were always alone inside your own body."

Phoenix Burning, by Yahtzee
What: More than two centuries after her death, Buffy is resurrected to fight vampires in a future where not everything is unfamiliar. AU, and fairly B/A.
Why: If you're a Buffy fanfic fan and missed this one the summer of 2001 while sifting through all the post-"Gift" fanfiction - shame on you. Buffy is characterized wonderfully, the plot and the future setting is completely original, there's a ton of well-written original characters, and I guarantee you won't see at least one of the twists coming. Even people who despise B/A fics have praised "Phoenix Burning."

Ill Met by Moonlight, by Perri Smith
What: When a blast from Angel's past appears, they are forced to work together to contain an evil attacking Sunnydale -- if they don't kill each other first. S2 (written before "Surprise" aired).
Why: Gypsies, werewolves, and curses... seen from before "Surprise" and "Innocence" laid down more groundwork. It reads and feels like a real Season 2 episode, and actually provides a lot more interesting background on Angel and the Gypsy clan that cursed him than the show ever did.

Ghost in the Shell, by Troll Princess
What: Post-S5, alternate opening for S6. Buffy returns, but in a package everyone might not accept. Buffy/Spike.
Why: Kick ass. Yeah, that's not exactly profound, but that's my gut reaction to this original, well-written, and genuinely entertaining post-"Gift" fanfic. Hey, it's a B/S fanfic that I actually liked, for crying out loud! First in a (still unfinished) trilogy, but it stands by itself.

Winners, by Ins
What: The good guys always win in the end. Isn't that the way it works? AU.
Why: I read to the end. Did a double take. Went back and re-read it again.

The Stranger's Portrait
What: If you hadn't seen your reflection in centuries, wouldn't you be curious?
Why: This story is pure Spike, 'ship-free, with elegant descriptions that fit coming from the mouth of the artist-narrator.

Another Peaceful War, by Marina Frants
What: In the aftermath of Season 4, Riley Finn tries to deal.
Why: This is the kind of character development Riley should have gotten on the show. Had the writers treated his character as well as Marina does here, he might have come out a heck of a lot more likable than he did.

Dancing Around the Issue, by Tracy (Link is working now)
What: S4. Giles teaches Xander to dance. Really dance.
Why: I was falling off my chair laughing when I read this one. Just don't read this while drinking anything.

The Deliverer, by Paul Leone and Teresa Owens (Link is working now)
What: Set in the "Wish-verse" seen in S3. Faith and an unlikely group of allies take on the Master.
Why: Hey, I like Wishverse fics as long as they adhere to the Wishverse (no easy happy ending). This one didn't disappoint, and it was cool, cool, cool. Bonus: Faith's Watcher, who's very non-British, down-to-business, and armed. In short, perfect to handle Faith.

Look Who's Perfect Now, by Troll Princess
What: S6 AU (written prior to "Bargaining"). In getting rid of a problem, the Scoobies provide a solution to a lonely heart.
Why: An amusingly wacky and twisted fic with one of the most bizarre 'ships I've ever read (she literally chose two names out of a hat), and a stop by the Wishverse. "We got any more brownies?" "Nope. Just a couple of Girl Scouts." Some readers may twitch at this, but I just died laughing.

Acid Test, by Yahtzee
What: Buffy's dead, and only Xander may be able to go back and keep it from happening. If only he could stop hopping back and forth and back and forth and back and forth through time. S4.
Why: Forget linear progression - this is a twisty, tightly-structured series of scenes through time that the reader needs to fit together like a jigsaw puzzle to figure out. You'll want to read it again, and it does all make sense. Oh, and while it's negated in the restored timeline, Willow and Xander have sex.

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Sleeping Dragon, by Irena K
What: Is little Wyatt all he appears to be? Spoilers up through Season 5.
Why: I like Charmed, but I find it incredibly hard to find good Charmed fic out there lately. So to see such an original and genuinely creepy little tale was a real treat. I doubt the show will take this tack with Wyatt, but oh my, would it ever explain some inconsistencies of Season 5.

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Electric Interest, by Neko-P
What: A tale of the developing relationship between Hanajima Saki and Sohma Hatsuharu. To say it's complicated would be an understatement.
Why: Okay, it's a work-in-progress, but I'm making an exception here. Neko-P captures Saki's character beautifully - even when she's wrapped in self-doubt and confusion, the voice is still purely Saki's. For a character who rarely ever comes off as uncertain, this is an accomplishment. The Haru/Saki relationship, with all its pitfalls, is compelling and believable; the author does not forget Rin, does not dismiss Haru's history with her, and even gets Black Haru into the mix without killing the attraction.

Side Effects, by Geoduck
What: Kyo tasted the tea, then frowned. `Why is this taste so familiar?' he thought.
Why: I couldn't stop laughing. Poor Kyo. But I still couldn't stop laughing.

Firsts, by Cutter
What: Kyo and Uo watch Yuki and Tohru from the sidelines, and finally notice one another. Kyo/Uo.
Why: I could never see Kyo and Uo getting together. Then I stumbled across this fic and did a double take. Not only are both of them brilliantly in character, but this is probably one of the most genuine, non-sappy relationship fics I've ever read.

Shigure's Secret Homosexual Bondage Dungeon, by Evil Asian Genius
What: Every house has its secrets...
Why: Nowhere near as scary as the title suggests, but it's one of the funniest FB fics I've ever read. The situation's absurd, but the characters are true to the anime. Shigure loves tormenting Yuki and Kyo, and sometimes those two just make it too easy for him... :)

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Working on it...

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Three Stones of Doom, by Scott Metzger
What: King Hiss attempts to drain the magical energy of three worlds at once, and his misfired attempt threatens Eternia, Etheria and Earth. Classic series, using continuity from the comics and the TV series.
Why: For one thing, the summary does not do justice to this novel. It brings in an incredible amount of recurring and regular characters from both classic series, and there's usually a good reason for the inclusion (as opposed to just throwing a character in there). For another thing, it's an entertaining and well-plotted read - Scott has a lot to juggle and never lets it get confusing. Set some time aside and read it.

Swords at World's Edge, by Poe Ghostal
What: Skeletor has captured He-Man, taken his Power Sword, and appears to have just about won the war... but not if the Sorceress, Man-At-Arms, and a warrior from another world have anything to say about it. In progress. Original series.
Why: Um, because it's a damned good story so far? Seriously, Poe definitely knows how to create atmosphere, and even if you regard the cartoon itself as corny, you won't be able to dismiss the fic so easily. The link works now.

The Final Hours, by Matthew L. Martin
What: A series of stories that chronicles the last days of the "'classic' Saga of Eternia." An epic conclusion to the series that a lot of fans would have enjoyed. Original series, although it mixes in some of the "New Adventures" as well.
Why: I've seen a number of "final days" fanfics for the He-Man universe... and this one has got the be the best I've read of all of them. Not only is it a well-told story, it brings in elements of the largely-disliked "New Adventures" seamlessly, and the additions benefit the story and set up a rather interesting twist. (Not saying anything. Read it.)

Of Lovely Things That Are Not True, by Volvic
What: A lunatic, a motel, and amnesia... Original series.
Why: A short, cruel (in a good way) and ultimately thought-provoking tale of what happens when your life is torn away, and the truth is too bizarre to accept. Probably the most original premise I've seen in any MotU fanfic.

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Semper Fi, by Meg Tangirala
What: A "day in the life" fic in which Lisa copes with repairs and frustrations, Michael copes with being a human target, and both cope with loneliness.
Why: This captures the ability of the show to weave the Michael-and-Theo plot and the Heather-and-Lisa plot together without having them necessarily cross paths. A touching, funny short fic. And it's always fun to watch Michael suffer.

Sweet and Becoming, by Hilary Fox
What: Theo drags Michael on a routine trip to an army base in upstate New York for a counseling session - but no one expects the explosive results.
Why: Okay, my summary sucks, don't be fooled - this is a really powerful short fic that gets us into Michael's head beautifully, and his reactions in the face of tragedy and his helplessness are fabulous. I only wish Hilary's N&A creativity demons hadn't gone comatose shortly after she wrote this great story.

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Fox Commodore, by DragonLady
What: Post-movie. Commodore Norrington takes in a neglected pet and suffers the consequences. First in a series.
Why: Okay, I admit, like most viewers of the movie, I was naturally rooting for Will, not the Commodore. (Hey, I don't hate Elizabeth.) But what drives me nuts in some fic writing is that people seem to forget that Norrington was NOT a prig in the end - come on, he gave up Elizabeth to Will, figured out on his own that Will was the real craftsman, and let Sparrow get a head start, all in one scene and with a considerable amount of grace. DragonLady gives us a sympathetic Norrington without sacrificing wit or character, and the lack of character-bashing all around is refreshing to see. It's nice to see a PotC fanfic with such an original premise, too - and there's not a Sue to be found. Go. Read.

Wait for No Man, by Gamine (Also available at Tortuga)
What: Post-movie. Losing a wife is hard enough, but losing a child... some losses are too much for the human soul to bear.
Why: Like "Fox Commodore," this is another story where Norrington is treated fairly and sympathetically without sacrificing any of his sarcasm or wit. But this rec is not merely because of Norrington; everyone is in character here, and a death that (for most writers) could be used as an excuse not to write a character is crucial to the plot and the resolution. It's obvious Gamine actually did some research for this story - especially with the voudoun practices and the setting - and it pays off beautifully. Best line: ""And then the Governor winked. At a wench. In a pub in Tortuga. Jack wondered how Beelzebub was enjoying the frost." (I expect to be recommending the sequel when it's finished.)

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Angel With Two Faces, by Gamine
What: "Death is an angel with two faces..." Set some 20 years after "Forever Red."
Why: Must be the most overdue fic recommendation EVER. Not only is it an intriguing and plausibly constructed vision of what might have come from the events of FR, it also brings together a number of Rangers from different seasons well. Not to mention a great deal of believable and non-Sueish OCs, some great action scenes, and a noticeably original plotline. (Okay, okay, it's also a Jason fic. I'm biased. Nyah.)

Minimum Age, by Beth Epstein
What: One of Lothor's spells turns Blake into a 6 year old. PRNS, spoilers up through "Scent of a Ranger."
Why: As I initially squealed: Hee! Chibi Blake! Seriously, the cuteness of this one is what got me, which is odd because cuteness usually turns me off - but this is genuinely cute without a load of sappiness. Beth uses the situation to explore the Tori/Blake pairing better than a lot of straightforward Tori/Blake fics I've read, and there's some great bonding moments with Hunter. "Tori, they're ignoring me! Will you please beat them up?" Heh. Six-year-old Blake is too cute for his own good.

The Fifth Wheel, by SilvorMoon
What: A story of the Rangers of Aquitar. Power Rangers - probably MMPR era.
Why: Dude. This is probably one of the most underrated fics I've seen in a long time. (8 reviews? 8 REVIEWS? WTF?) I'm still shocked I took so long to find the story. Rarely do any of the Aquitian Rangers get much time in fanfic, and their history was never really delved into on the show. SilvorMoon does an excellent job at world-building, filling in the gaps to create a great and believable picture of Aquitar while remaining fairly true to the silliness of PR. It's a well-told origin story that fleshes out the Aquitian Rangers, and for once, gives us a sympathetic and well-defined portrait of Cestria, who usually gets bashed because of Cestria/Billy hatred. "The Fifth Wheel" actually made my long-dead creativity demons for FF5 stir a bit, which is a feat in itself. PEOPLE, GO READ AND REVIEW. I'm still amazed this one was missed for so long.

Murphy's Law, by Stultulo
What: Cam's not having a very good day. A really not very good day. PRNS, pre-"Samurai's Journey."
Why: Just the idea is entertaining - Lothor kidnaps Cam and has Marah, of all people, keep an eye on him. The interplay between the two is fun, and the author gets Marah's peculiar brand of illogic down to a T. Oh, and Cam gets dressed up as a pirate. Hee. Go read it, I enjoyed it.

Home for the Holocaust, by Chris Funaro - Archived at Athers' PR Fanfic Library.
What: In the wake of Kendrix's death, Mike struggles to find the Christmas spirit, with a little help from Karone. PRLG, season 2.
Why: Let's see: first off, it centers around my two favorite characters in PRLG without immediately turning into a 'ship fic. (There's a hint at the end, but it's a very natural and subtle moment.) The character development is great - unlike a lot of writers, Chris doesn't simply brush off the fact that Mike spent three months or so trapped in the Magna Defender and that Karone suddenly left her long-lost family to track down the Quasar Saber. The reasoning for Karone being there in the first place is believable and ties in wonderfully to the main theme and what holidays mean to us.

From the Ashes, by Cheryl Roberts
What: Tommy receives a cry for help through the Morphin' Grid and must travel to another dimension to save the family he never knew. Set primarily post-Turbo.
Why: Even if you're not big on Kim/Tommy, you can't dismiss this one. This is probably the most complicated and interesting explanation for the infamous letter I've read (that honor belonged to Cheryl's "Til Death" until now). Not to mention that the vast majority of the story takes place in another dimension with Tommy surrounded by original characters... and you'll get sucked in to the mystery without even realizing it. Bonus points for not going for the Hollywood ending, but still managing to leave me with a smile.

First Kiss, First Light, and First Star by Starhawk
What: PRiS. A summer in the life of the Astro Rangers is no vacation: "First Kiss" begins in August, just as Earth comes under siege and the Astro Rangers are forced to depart for deep space once more. Two weeks later, the war finds its way to Aquitar in "First Light" and the Rangers find themselves again stuck in school. By the end of September there's no choice but to take the battle to Dark Spectre's doorstep, as the Rangers do in "First Star".
Why: Um, 'cause she takes all the good stuff about PRiS and runs with it? While I usually avoid romance-centered fics, Starhawk doesn't forget that these kids are fighting a war, and she actually makes me believe the Cassie/Phantom romance. No, really. There's so many stories here I just linked the first three series in her epic.

One Entity of Good, by Eva Beckwith
What: Set in the period just before Turbo, Billy and Jason, both Powerless, get kicked into another dimension. In progress.
Why: Eva writes so smoothly that it's easy to slip into the entirely new world she creates without even realizing it. With excellent characterizations and a plotline that's original and not predictable in the least, this one is a must-read.

A Matter of Trust, by Dagmar Buse
What: How come a nerd suddenly looks cool? He can, if he has a teammate to give him a makeover ...
Why: I'm not the only one who noticed the change in wardrobe during MMPR, now am I? A sweet and insightful little story about Billy and Kim's friendship. Dagmar keeps Kim from slipping into any kind of annoying airhead stereotype - rather than just trying to give Billy a makeover, she's trying to boost her friend's self-confidence. Bonus for the gang's great reaction at the end.

Dawn of the Huntress, by Rachel Dawson
What: Kim has a higher calling, even if it means giving up those she loves.
Why: This was supposed to be part one of a mini-series, and Rachel dropped that plan because she just couldn't finish it. (So don't pester her to.) But that's still no reason to pass this one by; it's one of the explanations behind "The Letter" that I really liked, and it's not just a Tommy/Kim angst fic. Also has a fairly effective villain who we don't quite see - and I've wondered just who ended up being his avatar. (Oh, and now that Rachel's been kind enough to enlighten me... HEY! I guessed right! Cool!)

Casting Stones, by Dagmar Buse
What: A moment's weakness between Jason and Kat tears friendships asunder.
Why: You know, I've noticed a lot of romance in this section despite my aversion to romance fics... but that sums up why I like this one. First off: it's a Jason fic. Second off, I think it's the most believable, touching, and well-written Jason/Kat fic I've ever read.

Catalyst, by Peregrine
What: The Gold Powers affected everyone who came in touch with them.
Why: Um, it features Jason and Billy? Seriously, though, this is a really well-written story that bridges the gap between Zeo and Lost Galaxy (you just knew Billy had something to do with Terra Venture). Hey, Billy survives being thrown in an engine core and I bought it.

Identiverse, by Rach (series)
What: Rach's ongoing Time Force universe, starting with missing scenes from existing episodes and then moving past the series finale.
Why: I'm recommending her whole darn series here 'cause I can't just pick out one story. Great writing and characterization, especially with Alex, who's portrayed perfectly here. Not to mention a welcome amount of focus on Eric. Also ties in slightly with previous PR series and provides a complicated, believable, and fairly cool reason to bring Jen back to 2001.

Earthsiege, by Rain Fletcher
What: PRZ, semi-crossover with Voltron. The Machine Empire makes an alliance with a certain powerful witch, and the Zeo Rangers need all the help they can get to protect the Earth this time...
Why: Written and set prior to season 2 of Zeo, this is a Billy-centered fanfic that gives his character the kind of screen time I would have liked to see in Zeo - and shows what the Rangers might have to resort to when facing a real threat of global proportions. The characterization is great, the story compelling, and I would have loved to see THIS on TV.

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Farewell, My Animated Statue, by Luna, Waitress of Doom
What: Lina writes a parting letter to her most beloved... and if you believe that line, you’ll believe anything.
Why: Short, funny, and pretty much ship-free. Lina tormenting Zel is always fun, and this fic had me wondering what color "chimera crimson" would be...

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The House of Red, by Mary Anne Gruen
What: Book length sequel to the movie. Wolf and Virginia and Tony find out the truth about the crimes in the House of Red.
Why: Of all the movie sequels I've read in 10K fan fiction, this is hands down the best of them. You've got time travel, a full-scale war, Wolf as a little kid, Wendell falling for Wolf's sister (a character who fortunately sidesteps the Mary Sue trap), the singing ring being useful, and a whole lot of background history on Wolf, Queen Red Riding Hood, and just why the treatment of wolves in the Ten Kingdoms is so bad.

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Grimm's Law, by Wendy Perkins
What: Lisa dreams only of being left alone, until a girl who is alone walks into her dreams. Sequel to The Atropos Project.
Why: Lisa-fic in general is hard to write; one tends to either characterize her as bitchy and in complete denial regarding the Tomorrow People and totally shunning them, or having her suddenly realize the error of her ways and be welcomed back with open arms. Wendy takes the middle ground and sticks with it, making Lisa genuinely sympathetic but never trivializing the fact that she did give up an important part of who she is. And while it is a sequel, you really only need to know the basic idea of its predecessor.

Worlds Away, by Michele Mason Bumbarger
What: The Tomorrow People are thrust into a parallel world, where they have to adopt the lives of their counterparts while trying to figure out a way home.
Why: To say this fic is epic would be an understatement; Michele did her homework on this one, and immerses both the TP and the reader in a whole new world. Warning: first in a series, so it does not end with full closure.

Telepathic Ghosts and Mistakes by Selma McCrory
What: Two Tomorrow People break out within days of each other, or so it seems. But both of them have secrets that could prove hazardous to Adam and Company. Read "Telepathic Ghosts" first!
Why: The same story, told from two drastically different points of view - "Mistakes" clears up a lot of the mystery of "Telepathic Ghosts." It's a really neat setup, and Selma had me guessing throughout "Telepathic Ghosts." (Read that one first or it's no fun!) Part of the "Tomorrow's Future" universe, but they can be read alone.

Exoneration, by Michele Mason Bumbarger
What: A Halloween tale involving a haunted house, and a few restless spirits desperately in need of the help of our heroes.
Why: You don't see a lot of Halloween stories in TP fandom - non-crossovers, at least - and this is a self-contained, eerie tale that unfolds in bits and pieces. Oh, and Ami gets possessed. :)

A More Perfect Union, by Shaun Hately
What: Actually a series of stories - a crossover between the 70's series and the 90's series. Winner, Favorite Serial, in the TP Fanfic Awards.
Why: I usually steer clear of New Series/Old Series crossovers, but Shaun does a lovely job tying up the seeming discrepancies between the two, and the serial is well paced and lets the crossover develop instead of happening all at once. Bonus: another original reason for Lisa's disappearance.

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Knight off Duty, by Tracey Claybon
What: Ian reflects on a rare night off.
Why: A lovely introspective piece that gets Ian out from under Irons' thumb for a night, yet never steps out of character (as some Ian-takes-off fanfics have done).

Transcendence Demutare, by Penny
What: What might have happened if Sara hadn't just watched Nottingham being shot by Dante.
Why: An alternate ending for "Transcendence?" That's nothing new. What is notable is that while Ian survives and the Great Rewind doesn't happen, there's still a price in the end. Everyone's perfectly in character, and for a piece this short it accomplishes a great deal.

Dreams, by Iceani
What: Sara and Jake track a serial killer who targets people with psychic abilities, and run into some folks from Jake's past. Trust me, this summary in no way does justice to it.
Why: Think I balk at Sara/Ian fanfic? This one's a Sara/Jake, and yet it works... because their relationship's understated and not the central focus. It's also a bit of a crossover with an anime I'm not familiar with, but you don't have to be. I can't really go into all the things I like about this very long and involved story, so here's a few: the killer's "portraits" are definitely chilling, Jake gets some character depth, several eerie dream sequences, and Dante getting his ass kicked. Set aside a good chunk of free time and read it.

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Boy Cooties, by Troll Princess
What: What would Logan look like if he shaved? Jubilee, Rogue, and Kitty vow to find out.
Why: A "day in the life" at the Xavier mansion that had me rolling every other paragraph. And it's not a Marie/Logan 'ship, thank goodness.

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