|
|
Sunday, March 6th, 2005
| |
4:52 pm - Fic Rec - Justice Just Us by Lizzerbeathan
|
Here's a fic that I am currently in love with, next up is a book recommendation, Haldir/Legolas fic, BTVS/West Wing crossover, and a QAF epic. Also, I still haven't figured out livejournal tags, so please bear with me. Now on with the show...
When I think of Spike/Buffy fanfic that tears you down and builds you back up, I think of Lizzerbeathan. She is one of the best Spike/Buffy fanfiction writers out there because she embraces the personalities of her characters; the positive and their faults. Justice Just Us begins at the season finale of Angel, during Team Angel's last battle against the Senior Partners. Lizzerbeathan has been a Spike/Buffy fan for a long time, and her love of the pairing is evident in her work. Located at http://www.lizerrrbeathan.com/JusticeJustUs.html, this a long and involved fic. Once I started reading, I did not want to stop. Here's a snippet:
Buffy was pissed. She was angry. It was the kind that sat cold inside her, cold and steady like a tomb marking a past event, past by but still here and 'x' marks the spot and here she was, revisiting the grave of: 'oh no, not again...'
Vi had the troops gathered in the garden. Two hundred and twenty two slayers. Buffy hoped it would be enough. No amulet this time, no holy hotline...and best not to think about Spike.
Dawn was there to her right and had the scythe, The Slayer elemental ready for Buffy when needed. Dawn nodded to Buffy briefly, but didn't look any deeper into her sister. It was hard to look at Buffy when she was like this.
They were going to win. But they weren't all going to live. In this world at least. Buffy looked down at the stone tile of the veranda as she gathered her thoughts. She would be brief. She looked up and began.
"This isn't a rescue mission. This is about containment and justice. If, by the time we get to the center and there is anyone left...do not engage the vampires in battle...do not. Your natural instincts will lead you toward them and your blood lust will be kicking in...but do not engage them. The others on their crew are a misnomer at this point and not the objective. When my crew reaches the center they will be able to identify the vampire they have had a prior association with and he can relay to them, friend from foe. I repeat, no one stakes the blonde vampire, I am aware of slayers gathering stripes by staking notorious vamps and there will be no counting coup here...do it, I'll know it, and you will be sorry."
Beat. She turned dropped her voice a bit as she spoke to Vi:
"Vi...your group protects Spike..."
Vi nodded smiling a bit. "Sure...totally my pleasure..."
"The other one is mine..." Buffy's eyes turned steely as she stepped in front of Giles. Arms crossed in front, scythe in hand and waited.
I fell in love with this fic because of its attention to detail. Every character from Vi all the way to the Immortal plays an important role. I was left hanging and bereft at the end of AtS Season 5, with our four heroes fighting a horde of demons. I wondered what would come of them and this fic gives me an answer. Spike is a flawed hero, who continues on his journey to becoming a full actualized person. He is called on to sponsor Angel against those who would punish him for his deeds, and in doing so, Spike becomes a champion in his own right. In contrast, we see the Immortal, and a reincarnation of the First Slayer who want to see Spike killed more than anything. With the support of former scoobies and the potential slayers he helped trained in Sunnydale, Spike becomes an advocate. Afraid of hurting one another, Spike and Buffy's relationship progresses slowly but beautifully. In addition, this fiction spans years, from the creation of a new council, all the way to Spike and Buffy's children. I wholeheartedly recommend this fic with 4 bottles of Jameson's Whiskey. Please don't hesitate to leave the author feedback, and load your printer with paper, because this fic is definitely worth the trees.
current mood:  blah
current music: life passing me by
|
|
(comment on this)
|
| |
4:43 pm - Latest News
|
Well I sent in my graduate application to Brooklyn College last Monday. I still haven't heard from the other schools I'v applied to, but it's still early. I just have one more application to submit, and that's to Hunter College which is due April 1st. I'm actually going to try to get it out at the end of the week. In other news, me and my family are trying to move. We really want to be out of here by the end of March but anyone living in New York knows how hard it is to find an apartment. You have find a place, put in an application, provide references, credit check, pay stubs, w-2 forms, and sit through a grilling interview with the owner. We found this sweet four bedroom in Brooklyn and we had the interview with the landlord last wednesday. So, we're still waiting to here from him and the real estate agent. Everytime the phone rings, we are totally freaking out, but hopefully they'll call tomorrow.
On a personal front, I caught a cold last week, so I sound like Elmer Fudds little sister. I am so tired of hot tea ;-( and my sister just got her shipment of girl scout cookies yesterday. I telling you those double double chocolate chocolate chip cookies and a tall glass of milk is calling my name. (sniffle) sadly my sore throat is currently protesting, but as soon as I'm well, cookies watch out. I'm still working as a volunteer office assistant at the American Cancer Society, I'm not getting paid but the experience is great and I'm networking. We just had our Mother of the Year Award luncheon last week where we honored Diane Reeve. If any of you saw Access Hollywood last wednesday they did a little piece on it, and a interview with Mrs. Reeve with the ACS logo in the back. I was so proud ;-) especially since I did all those place settings and gift bags myself. Unfortunately with tickets $1000 a pop, this lowly volunteer was not invited.
current mood:  sick
current music: Diane Krall - "My Love"
|
|
(comment on this)
|
| Wednesday, February 9th, 2005
| |
7:15 pm - Author Rec
|
Okay, people I'm starting this year of right with some recs that I hope you'll enjoy. I still haven't been to the movies. I keep saying I need to go see the Aviator, and I have to see Constantine because I have to support Keanu Reeves in anything he does. I have to see if I can see him play someone else besides Neo. It doesn't sound difficult but for me it is. I can't picture Viggo Mortenson playing anybody but Aragorn. So much so, that I couldn't stomach him in Hidalgo. But hopefully, Keanu can transcend the matrix. In other news, my application for Brooklyn College's grad program is due March 1. Why is it that Columbia and NYU only wanted a portfolio of ten poems, but Brooklyn College wants 20 poems? I don't understand it, and of course I can't seem to write a poem right now to save my life. (exhales) but it's okay, I'm sure by next week this writers block will vanish. Now on with the show......and for some reason my html tags aren't working. Any advice?
Fanfic Author Rec - Salustra
At times I am in a Spike and Angel mood, and lets face it, I'm always in a Spike and Angel mood. However, when I really crave is Alternative Universe fic with a Spike/Angel pairing I always turn to Salustra. Many fanfic writers take a storyline of Whedon's making and creates from there. In contrast, Salustra is really adventurous in her writing in that she isn't afraid to place Whedon characters in alternative universes and make it believable. It takes talent to create fanfiction that is fresh and original. Salustra is one these authors. She has written many fics, featuring Spike, Angel and Lindsey. She is especially skilled at character development, so when reading her fics the reader understands the character as the character develops. At times she writes with a partner, namely Pet, Myst, and others. Located at http://www.geocities.com/sireandchilde/salustra.html, the majority of her fics are slash. Salustra is also adept at fiction crossovers. One of my favorites is A Study in White, an Angel/CSI crossover featuring a Spike/Grissom pairing. Taking place in Ats Season 5, Spike is a suspect in a murder and Grissom finds him fascinating. While Grissom does have a Giles-y quality, the chemistry between Spike and Grissom quickly draws the reader in. Heres a snippet:
Grissom shows up outside the interrogation room. Brass and Greg are already there. They are watching the subject inside. "So what have we got here, gentlemen?" Grissom asks, even as he looks through the two-way glass at the suspect. A man paces inside, and Grissom is immediately taken with his predatory grace. Something like watching a panther pace in
a cage. He is dressed in jeans and a black T-shirt that do nothing to disguise his lithe, muscular body. His hair is platinum, nearly white, in soft waves on his head. His skin is white. When he looks over at the glass, Grissom can see his crystal-blue eyes.
Brass shrugs. "Guy was at a murder scene, holding the body in his arms. Took three taser slugs to bring him down. We thought he was dead, no heartbeat, but he started moving as the paramedics were checking him and had to be sedated. That didn't last either."
"So who are you then? This one," Spike says, indicating Brass," Is quite obviously a copper, but you're not."
"Grissom, CSI," Grissom replies. "I'm a Crime Scene Investigator. Head of the Department."
Spike eyes Grissom speculatively. "Yeah. Makes sense. You've got that Giles look of competence and intellectual arrogance about you."
"What were you doing with Jared Northridge this evening, Spike?" Brass asks.
"Came to see him on business. I work for a law firm. He said he had some important information for us."
"And the *name* of your law firm?" Brass asks, clearly skeptical that this hoodlum worked for a law firm.
"Wolfram and Hart. Los Angeles branch." Spike responds.
"We'll check that out," says Brass.
"You just do that, copper," Spike says, shaking his head.
The sexual tension in this fic is fabulous, and Grissom's reaction to the supernatural elements of the world is one of curiosity not shock. This fic was a delight to read and would satisfy a CSI fan as well. If you do visit Salustra's site please check out another fic titled The Chemicals Between Us, written by Salustra and Pet. Set in an AU setting with a human Liam and a vampire Spike in a society where vampires are a recognized race with rights. Teaming up together as temporary partners in the police force, they investigate a series of vampire murders. Starting out with a prejudice against vampires,. Liam is an average joe, and at times naive. Through the police investigation we meet familiar Whedon characters like Andrew, who has no problem taking what Spike has to offer. Spike and Liam's friendship slowly develops, and I have never slash scenes written so well. So if you are in the mood for some fic, check out Salustra's site. I recommend her with 4 bottles of Jameson's Whiskey.
current mood:  cranky
|
|
(comment on this)
|
| Monday, January 17th, 2005
| |
6:29 pm - The land of the living
|
(peeks head out)hhhheeeellllooooo? I think my livejournal needs the paramedics and a crash cart ;-) Okay, I haven't posted since November, nor have I visited my friends list. Real Life has been bitch slapping me around, and I've barely had time to check my email. Well, since my last post I've been busy applying to grad school. I took the GRE on December 22nd, and it kicked my ass. I don't even know why I'm surprised because I think I got a 1050 on my SAT's back in high school. I'm not a good standardized test taker, but I totally rocked the essay portion of the GRE. The question now is, will my crappy scores prevent me from getting into NYU grad school? I don't know (wailing) The application was due January 3rd, along with my creative writing portfolio, recommendations, etc. The application for Columbia and New School University was due that same week also. I won't know until the end of March, so right now I'm just applying for grants and scholarships and hope for the best.
In other news, I'm still volunteering at the American Cancer Society, while I look for a permanent part-time job. Which means my livejournal has been revived (Yeah!!) I've been reading fanfic like crazy and have some great recs in store (by the way for all of you Tabauqi "Changes" fan, she just posted the last chapter and it is phenomenal), and I'm going to start going to the movies again. I did see a bootleg copy of "Ray" and Jame Fox's performance was outstanding. However, the movie itself was okay, I thought it mirrored a sophisticated VH1 behind the Music special. Fox himself, nailed Ray, and even though I am a huge Leo DiCaprio fan (I haven't seen the Aviator yet) he'll probably win the oscar. Okay, I've totally digressed, so I'm going to sign off and visit my dusty friend list.
current mood:  rejuvenated
current music: Jazziefatnasies - "Do it Again"
|
|
(comment on this)
|
| Sunday, November 28th, 2004
| |
6:03 pm - I missed November
|
Yep, I do believe I missed the month of November. I actually posted a rant and rave last week but it wouldn't load, then I lost it, and refused to rewrite it because it's hard to work up a good rant the second time around ;-) I'm still reading fanfiction and my list of recs are a mile long, but i'm currently getting over a cold. Its not the flu thank god, but I got caught in the rain last Saturday and it has been down hill ever since. Which brings me to why I've been so busy, last Saturday I was waiting on line for 45 minutes to take this civil service test to be an Office Assistant at one of the CUNY schools in New York. You get benefits and they pay your tuiton for school, so of course about 200 people showed up to take this test cause everyone's poor, which led me to waiting in the rain for almost an hour.
Now I'm taking the GRE on the 22nd of December. I'm not ready but who knows if I'll ever be. I'm trying to track down some former Professors, because NYU in particular wants a recommendation from someone who knew me academically, so please keep your fingers crossed for me.
current mood: sick
current music: the slow passage of time
|
|
(comment on this)
|
| Saturday, October 23rd, 2004
| |
4:07 pm - Fic Rec - Forever Changes Everything by Rhiannonhero
|
Well, the lady from the publishing company called me back, and we scheduled an interview, but I am toying with canceling it. She gave me a partial job description on the phone, it's working in the production division of chemistry and biology books, and I'm not really qualified for it. And I don't want to go through a batch of interviews for a position that I only have a 10% percent chance of getting. The last job I applied for was in editing and I had to take three tests, 7 interviews, and in the end it was between me and someone else, needless to say the other person got it. In addition, it's in New Jersey, and I can't see myself taking two classes a semester while working 9-6 all the way in New Jersey. So, I've decided to think it over this weekend and then make a decision. Now on with the rec...
I just read a fic by the infamous Rhiannonhero called Forever Changes Everything. Located at http://www.rhiannonhero.net/rhi/QueerAsFolk/foreverchangeseverthing.htm, the fic takes place at the end of season 3 of Queer As Folk, when Justin leaves Pittsburgh for LA to do the movie Rage. In contrast to canon, Brian broke up with Justin, and we see the boys years later when Justin returns to Brian's life seeking to hire Kinnetik's services. As they meet and reunite, they try to decide if this time will be forever. However, their relationship is not without obstacles, Justin has a partner and a love-em-and-leave-em attitude, while Brian is not the man he use to be. Here's a snippet:
So, I guess I'll leave it up to Mark to contact you about the campaign. I'm not sure just how involved I'll be in it all. I generally leave those things up to Mark. But I would like to catch up with you. It's been a long time."
"Isn't that what we just did?" Brian bit down on his tongue; if he could retract that last comment, he would. Turning his eyes to rush over the room, he noticed that the dark-eyed Romeo in the corner was still offering, and Brian lifted his drink in a return gesture out of habit.
"Well, it appears that the lion has caught his prey for the evening." Justin pushed away from the bar. "I suppose I'll get back to Mark now."
Brian muttered, "Yes, mustn't keep the husband waiting."
Justin smiled, his eyes glittering smartly. "We aren't married. Maybe you forgot, but I'm queer. I fuck who I want, when I want--"
Brian interrupted. "Good to know some lessons stuck. Why are you telling me this?"
"Because I've always wanted you to be proud of me, Brian." Justin cocked his head, growing serious. "Didn't you know that?" Brian watched as Justin turned his back and walked away, never once glancing back to see Brian's reaction. It hurt just like it had the first time. And the second time. And the last time, too.
I enjoyed this fic because Rhi delves into the characters' mindset. We see how Brian and Justin have changed, not only in the way they act, but also in the way they think. The secondary arcs throughout the fic add additional drama, namely Brian and Justin's relationship with the Liberty crew, Brian's relationship with his son Gus, and Gus's own confusion about himself and life. The slash scenes were not only hot but oftentimes an expression of emotion, whether it be love or angst. Rhi is really gifted at pacing and this fic flows effortlessly. I recommend this fic with 3 1/2 bottles of Jameson's Whiskey.
current mood:  contemplative
current music: for some reason I'm listening to Coldplay again
|
|
(comment on this)
|
| Wednesday, October 20th, 2004
| |
6:16 pm - Fic Rec - Gone But Not Forgotten by Bryant Maclagan
|
Two posts in one day?!?! I know, the shock almost killed me. I've been all twitchy because I've been waiting for this lady from a publishing house to call me for an interview. She had called Monday, I missed her, and I called her, etc, basically we seem to be playing phone tag. So I stayed home today to wait like a girl by the phone, and decided to be productive. Did I break out my GRE study book, oh nooo, I read fanfic instead, so here is a rec. Also, for some reason my html tags don't seem to be working, any suggestions on how to fix this problem?.....
Last week I read a fic called Gone But Not Forgotten by the Queer As Folk author Bryant Maclagan. Located at http://www.midnight-whispers.com/bryant-maclagan/gonebutnotforgotten/index.htm, it's an alternative universe fic in which Justin is a very rich and reclusive artist. On his way home, Justin is kidnapped, and he is soon joined in captivity by Brian. Together as they fight to stay sane, a tentative friendship occurs, followed by love. Here's a snippet:
As he pulled out a piece of paper from the drawer in the table, Justin began to draw. He began to draw his childhood home, paying special attention to the lush trees, and lake near their manor. He barely paid any attention to the door opening, deciding it wasn't worth his attention, he was supposed to be asleep. It wasn't until he looked up, did he know that his world had definitely stopped. Before him was the most beautiful man he had ever seen. Tall, muscular – not overly muscular either – auburn hair, and eyes that seemed to change from green to gold. The man before him was absolutely beautiful. Justin took in the rest of the body, noticing that the entire package he could live with. "Well at least they stuck me with someone good-looking." Justin stated with a smile as he plopped his feet up on the table. "My names Justin, and since we're stuck here, welcome to my hell."
I loved this fic because its idea is fresh and the writing has depth. The Brian in this story still wears his Brian Kinney mask, but he evolves into a more real person. The liberty gang doens't seem to even notice that he's missing until he isn't there to give them money or something else they need from him. This hurts Brian and the audience is able to see how it affects him and ultimately the way he will live his life. His secretary Cynthia(incidentally we have the same name yay!!) and Ted are surprising allies, and go beyond the call of duty insure Brian and Justin's return. Bryant Maclagan is fabulous at details, especially when we witness the psychological effects of the boy's kidnapping. With drama, angst, and hot slash, this fic is a must read. I give this fic 4 bottles of Jameson's Whiskey
current mood:  hyper
current music: Black Eyed Peas - Smells Like Funk
|
|
(comment on this)
|
| |
11:20 am - Author Rec - Jenny
|
I'm doing a QAF rec later this afternoon if my computer behaves itself. I'm also toying with the idea of doing DVD reviews, because I just saw Spartan on DVD and it was fabulous for many reasons. Please let me know if there is any interest in that. Now on with the rec...
Occasionally, I read fiction by an author and I slowly realize that I love everything they have ever written. Their writing style is superb, and their story lines are unique and creative. Their writing is so good that I place them on my favorite list, I molest there fic at least once a month, and without them I fear I would wither away to a dystopian existence. In addition, I harass them for updates. Now I know many authors who fit into this category, but alas I am only one person, so I will rec one when the mood strikes..
On of my fav author's is Jenny located at http://www.squashduck.com/ltd/spikeangelmain.htm. Now Jenny has been writing for a long time, so she should be on everyone's favorites list. If you haven't read any of Jenny's work, I recommend putting aside a couple of days, load your printer with paper, and read. Her main parings are Angel/Spike but she also writes Giles/Spike and Wesley/Spike/Angel fiction. Jenny's subject matter are many and vast, and she often takes ideas from canon and creates a world that is impossible to ignore.
A couple of my favorite stories are Protective Custody in which Cordelia is given a vision of Buffy killing Spike in season 6. Horrified at what is about to happen, Angel kidnaps Spike and puts him into protective custody. Also set in season 6, The Definition of Normal is based on the events of "Normal Again" in which Buffy is stung by the big nasty and thinks her life isn't real. In this fic, Spike is stung and wakes up in a rehab clinic where he is recovering addict/rock star who uses the "Spike" persona when he's on stage. Angel struggles to save him by convincing him that there is something in "this life" worth fighting for. Last but in no way least, Jenny's Time is the Fire in Which We Burn series, and its sequel The Darkling Plain, in which Spike regains his soul, but the soul doesn't solve his problems. With a on/off again relationship with Angel, a new detective agency created by Spike, Wolfram & Hart, bloodplay, prophecies, and magic, this fic has it all.
I recommend Jenny's website with 4 bottles of Jameson's Whiskey. All of her work embodies different facets of human emotion, but also Spike and Angel emotion. I especially like her Wesley characterization, he's neurotic and uncomfortable in his skin, but he has a lot to give. So go over there and read some of her fic, and feed her feedback monster, she loves that.
current mood: nervous
current music: Coldplay - God Put A Smile Upon Your Face
|
|
(comment on this)
|
| Friday, October 15th, 2004
| |
5:25 pm - Fanfic Rec - Not So Bad by Higgy
|
I recently read a fic called Not So Big Bad by Higgy. Located at http://stolen-childe1.tripod.com/id10.html, Angel conducts a meeting with some demons at Wolfram & Hart. In his quest to annoy Angel, Spike interrupts the meeting, and in retaliation the demons cast a spell that turns Spike into a four year old vampire. Here's a snippet:
He'd already had to apologize for Spike's behavior to the demons he had interrupted earlier, explaining how Spike was just an overgrown child and needed to be taught manners. "Spike!" he yelled and was glad when no more banging and crashing pursued. "If you've broken anything of mine I swear..." he cut himself off when the doors opened and he was facing an empty room. He was expecting Spike to be gloating over being able to annoy him so much in such a short amount of time. "Spike?" he called again. It wasn't like Spike to hide from anything, even an angry mob.
He was topped in his tracks from what he saw. Lying face down on the floor was a pile of Spike's clothes with a small child hidden in the t-shirt. Correction, a small Spike in the t- shirt. They may have been separated for a century, but Angel knew his childe's scent, and this kid stunk of Spike. Kneeling by the small body, Angel gathered Spike in his arms and turned him over to see his face. He was shocked to find the right half of the boy's face covered with blood and the child seemed to be completely unaware of anything. Shaking the tiny body slightly Angel tried to rose the child from unconsciousness. "Spike?" he called gently, trying not to alarm the t-shirt wrapped bundle in his arms. Quickening his pace he got to the lab in record time and laid Spike down on a desk. "I need someone over here. Now!" he called and was surprised at the speed of reaction.
I've always liked vampires turned into to children stories because it's interesting to see how much of their personality is retained in their kid status. Spike in this story is softer as a child, less abrasive but inquisitive and still able to find trouble. He and Angel really connect, and you get the sense of Angel being the father he wish he could have been for Connor. Team Angel is delighted with Spike but Illyria is the most surprising. Her confusion at his smaller size is funny, yet she befriends him. I really liked this fic, because Higgy doesn't shy away from showing different sides of people. The dialogue was fresh, and the characterization of the werewolf Nina was surprising and accurate. I recommend this fic with 3 bottles of Jameson's Whiskey.
current mood:  satisfied
current music: Black Eyed Peas - Smells Like Funk
|
|
(3 comments | comment on this)
|
| Thursday, October 14th, 2004
| |
11:29 pm - I'm still alive
|
Yes I am still alive eventhough I haven't posted in a couple of weeks. I do have a couple of recs coming, probably tomorrow and Saturday. Sunday I'm doing the Breast Cancer walk, so if I'm not to sore I'll post a movie rec. In other news, I just finished reading Incubus Dreams by Laurell K. Hamilton, and it was 700 pages of vampire, werewolves, and wereleapord goodness. When I started this journal I promised myself I wasn't going to do book reviews, because I read so much and some things should be for pleasure. But if you aren't Anita Blake fan, and you like Buffy and Angel, I do urge you to try Hamilton's books. She's created this world where vampires are legal, and everything that is mystical is assimilated into society. But just like any society, laws are broken, specieism exists, along with love and lust. Okay this is beginning to sound like a review, so I'm gonna stop. Now, I'm off to read my friends list and post some comments.
current mood:  weird
current music: David Bowie - Nature Boy
|
|
(comment on this)
|
| Monday, September 27th, 2004
| |
5:52 pm - Fanfic Rec - Lap of Honour by Tubbyk
|
Here is a great fic to cheer up anyone whose had a bad day, depressed or just in a bad mood. In honor of our great departed olympics, I want to recommend Lap of Honour by Tubbyk. Located at http://forum.colddeadseed.com/viewtopic.php?t=262, it features a lovely NC-17 pairing of Angel and Spike. After watching the Olympics, Angel decides he has aspirations to win a gold medal of his own, unfortunately he and Spike can't find a sport that suits him. Here's a snippet:
"Angel? Angel! What the hell do you think you're doing?"
"Hmm? Oh, nothing Spike, just distracted."
"You're distracted? What's wrong?"
"Nothing. Just feeling a bit mopey."
"Umm, okay, I'm going to persevere with this caring, sharing bit for
a while longer before killing you. So is it something I've done?"
"NO!"
"Well then what is it, luv?"
"I want to win a gold medal at the Olympics."
*silence*
"See, I knew you wouldn't understand."
"Angel, I've just tried to discreetly tuck thirteen inches …"
"Ten!"
*Slap*
"…of throbbing solid flesh back under my towel so as not to distract
you while you pour your heart out to me, only to find that you have
some loony inclination to compete in the Olympics."
"Not just compete … win!"
This story is hilarious, and it really will make the day seem brighter. Spike is totally annoyed that Angel is taking time to interrupt their shag to brood about some medal. He tries to offer suggestions in order to end the conversation as quickly as possible, but he soon learns that Angel is serious. Angel, on the other hand, is perfect as a vampire dealing with a human aspiration. It was great to read Angel with human problems and emotions. Tubbyk has mastered Spike speech patterns, and the conversations flows beautifully I give this fic 4 bottles of Jameson's Whiskey.
current mood:  mischievous
current music: Nelly Furtado - "One Trick Pony"
|
|
(comment on this)
|
| Thursday, September 16th, 2004
| |
2:17 pm - Fanfic Rec - The Candidate by Thyme
|
In the Queer as Folk Fandom, the author Thyme is one of my favorite writers. The main paring is Brian and Justin, and the current fic is called The Candidate in which through a series of strange events, Brian ends up running for public office. This takes place at the end of season three after the Stockwell scandal and Brian's termination from the ad agency Vanguard. Located at http://www.mags-nificent.com/MSW/Thyme.htm, Brian is an unlikely candidate but we soon learn that he is the best person for the job.
"Mr. Langdon?" Brian said. "I asked you why you are here."
"As I said to you on the intercom, I represent a group of concerned citizens. I'm here to make you a proposal."
"I don't believe in marriage, but thanks for the offer."
Charles chuckled. "Not that kind of proposal."
"Then what kind?" Brian asked truly mystified by what this man was driving at.
"We want you to run for public office."
"Yeah, right! Is this Mikey's idea of a joke? Because if it is, it isn't fucking funny!"
"This is no joke. We think you should be the next mayor of Pittsburgh."
Brian didn't know whether to laugh or cry or slit his wrists. What the hell was going on? Maybe that shit he had been smoking was stronger than he thought. Had he somehow slipped into the Twilight Zone without noticing? "Are you on drugs or just fucking insane?" he asked incredulously.
"Neither, I hope."
"But you can't be serious."
"Oh, but I am."
I love this fic because Thyme really has the gift for making you love these characters. The storyline is unique, and Thyme doesn't shy away from the tough issues. Running for political office would be difficult in any situation, but a gay man with a partner running for office comes with another set of complications. On the same token, Brian is who he is. The snarkiness, sarcasm, his pain management, his religious mother, the charm, sex appeal, and love for Justin and his son Gus, is all there. It's obvious that the author has done a lot of research on the political process, and it is more evident in the fic's sequel Mayor Kinney, which is currently 45 chapters and rising. Brian and Justin meeting President Bush was hilarious, and I love that when the latest scandal is printed about him in the papers, Brian's first question is "Do I look fabulous?" Thyme also does a fantastic job of taking canon and changing it into this new Brian and Justin world. Justin is a strong character in his own right, and the fic deals with him trying to have a life apart from being Mrs. Mayor Kinney. In addition, the slash scenes between Brian and Justin are beyond compare. I give this fic 4 bottles of Jameson's Whiskey. While you are there drop Thyme some feedback, and also check out the Sunshine series and it's sequels, which take place in season two after the Rage party.
current mood:  indescribable
current music: Evanescence - Going Under
|
|
(comment on this)
|
| |
2:04 pm - Fanfic Rec - Mr. Monk and the Vampire
|
Yeah, I'm back. Yes, my poor live journal has been neglected because of real life. There was a death in the family, and as usual things got away from me. But I'm back and and on a side note, I just saw the trailer for Blade Trinity, and it was hot. I can't wait to see it, I will be there opening weekend and will post a review. No on with the rec....
Okay, I adore crossover fictions, and lately I've discovered a few. Mr Monk and the Vampire is a crossover with the obsessive compulsive detective Tony Monk, and my much beloved character Spike from Buffy the Vampire Slayer. Set in season five of Buffy Post-Gift, Spike takes a break from Sunnydale life and finds himself wrongly accused of murder. Written by Tobeywolf at http://www.livejournal.com/users/tobywolf13/807.html, this fic is hilarious.
Spike yawned and slouched further down in his chair. This had been a bad plan. Not that any of his plans tended to work out per se, but this one was going especially pear-shaped. He'd just needed a break. For over three months he'd been the soul (no pun intended) care-taker of a teen-age girl and he'd needed some time away. He loved the Nibblet, really he did. But being stuck in the house day after day and meandering down the same patrol routes night after night had begun to bore him. Energetic by nature and a wanderer at heart, Spike had never spent more time in a city than he had in Sunnyhell. Just thought it'd be nice to get out was all.
Tara, being the sweet (before his chipping, Spike would have called her naïve and easily edible) person she was, had offered to take Dawn on a vacation to L.A. for a weekend. He didn't mind as long as he could have some space to breathe. He couldn't stand being in HER house another second, would have gone starkers if he had. Of course, Spike wasn't sure that he hadn't gone crazy as it was. Here he sat in a police station, being interrogated for murder.
This fic is currently broken up into two parts, so please search the journal for part two. Tobeywolf has done a great job at including Monk's little idiosyncrasies, whether it's smoothing Spike's curls back because it is uneven or his customary touching of each pole he passes. He and Spike also bound over the deaths of their loved ones, his wife Trudie and for Spike the Slayer. Sharona is delightful, and sparks fly between her and the blond menace. The murder case itself is interesting, and I was even wondering who framed Spike and why. This is a fun read and I give it 3 bottles of Jameson's Whiskey.
current mood:  mellow
current music: the whirlygig of time
|
|
(comment on this)
|
| Wednesday, September 1st, 2004
| |
7:32 pm - Movie Review - Wicker Park
|
Is a love a first sight possible? What would you do if the person you loved, loved someone else? Set in Wicker Park Chicago, a tale of obsessive love follows Matt (Josh Harnett), Lisa (Diane Kruger) and Alex (Rose Byrne) in this suspenseful romance. When Mathew sees Lisa walk in front of his shop, it's love at first sight. He immediately sets out to capture her heart, and when they fall in love, their relationship is perfect. But one day Lisa vanishes, no note or phone call, and Matt is left confused and empty. Now it's two years later, and with a new career and fiancee-to-be, Matt has moved on with his life. But when he catches a glimpse of a girl in a bar - a girl who could be Lisa, he must find her. And while he is obsessed with Lisa, someone else is obsessed with him.
I enjoyed this movie because their's a sense of the butterfly effect, in which everything you do affects someone else. By utilizing different point of views, we are able to see how each relationship connects, and we slowly learn the characters motivations. The idea of a fantasy spiraling out of control isn't new, and they were echoes of the movie Single White Female. However, director Paul McGuigan has mastered story build up, and brings a unique vision to the subject. Filled with intricate flashbacks, he presents a stylized movie. He has a vivid use of color, and often exemplifies that even the most ordinary things can be beautiful. By using slow motion to capture a dropping key chain, a swirl of a red coat, and the sole of pair of shoes, periodically he brings the audience in and out of the story.
Diane Krueger, fresh from her role in Troy is beautiful and has an exotic other world quality. However, I did want to see more dialogue from her. She exists more as the epitome of perfection than an actual person. Juxtaposed with her counterpart Rose Byrne, they make striking contrast. Mathew Lillard is the prince of sidekicks and provides comic relief when things get too serious. While Josh Harnett (who I've loved since The Faculty) has mastered the I'm-a-tortured-soul-look (accompanied by the music of Coldplay), it bordered on stilted and I wanted to see more range. Overall, I do recommend this movie. The story is multi-layered and as an audience member, it was a delight to watch it unfold. I also just loved the cinematography. I give this movie 2 1/2 bottles of Jameson Whiskey.
current mood: rejuvenated
current music: Jefferson Airplane - Somebody to Love
|
|
(comment on this)
|
| Tuesday, August 31st, 2004
| |
12:55 pm - Rant and Rave - Marissa Tomei
|
Besides the inconvenience of having the Republic National Convention here, Marissa Tomei is also on my crap list. Yesterday, as part of the Imagine Festival of Arts, which focuses on political inspired art and lectures, they were doing a forum comparing Ancient Greece and Modern America. The program included a forum, and a dramatic reading of Sophocles(one of my fav texts in Greek Mythology) directed by Lawrence Sacherown, starring Marissa Tomei, Kathleen Chaflant and Stephen Boyer. The event started at 6:30, and it was free but they were giving out tickets starting a 4 o'clock. I got on line at 2:30, but their were people on line since 2:00. Total, there were at least 300 people on line, and I was number 60.
They start giving out tickets at 4, and at 4:10, Marissa Tomei calls the center and informs them that she needs 200 tickets for her friends, family and entourage, yes I said 200. Which left 55 tickets for the rest of the public. The 300 people standing on line for hours in that heat, including me, were not happy. I really thought that was rude and unprofessional. I could understand needing 50 tickets for you're entourage, but 200. And I know the Performing Art Center was pissed, because if she had told them this earlier, they wouldn't have advertised the event, and they would have told people they were out of tickets after 55 people showed up. Then she calls the center at 4:20 and says she may do another show in couple of months, tell everyone on line to put their name and address on a list, and her people will get back to them. Ok, (1) I don't think that was good enough, and (2) I also think she was lying and was just trying to throw the center a bone. Am I being unreasonable? I don't think so. So, in conclusion, Marissa Tomei is on my Rant and Rave 2004 list.
current mood: bitchy
current music: No Doubt - Just A Girl
|
|
(comment on this)
|
| |
12:32 pm - I feel so guilty
|
I know I haven't posted a rec or review in awhile so please accept my apologies. Real life is kicking my ass all around town. I'm still applying to jobs, but I'm also applying to grad school in January. Which means studying for the GRE, and let me tell you, if we were in a battle, it would be GRE 5 to Cynthia 1. I mean a graduated from college in 2001, which isn't that long ago, but I think I've forgotton every math theorem I've ever learned. So between the GRE, checking my regular email, job searching, and my 17 yr old cousin being pregnant, my poor live journal is being neglected. And stupid Republican Convention being here in NYC isn't helping because everything is blocked off, so it's taking me hours to get to places when it would usually take me 20 minutes. I haven't even checked my friends page (sniffle) in days. But my plan, is to take this long weekend and catch up, so bear with me.
current mood: discontent
current music: Bjork - Hunter
|
|
(comment on this)
|
| Sunday, August 22nd, 2004
| |
9:12 pm - Fanfic Rec - A Mortal Love by Morgana
|
With a Haldir/Eomer, Elrond/Glorfindel, and a Legolas/Aragorn pairing, A Mortal Love by Morgana is a delightful surprise. After the battle of Helm's Deep, Haldir is found ad mist the dead barely alive. He returns from the Halls of Mandos, but his life force is almost extinct. In order to bring him back, someone needs to bind themselves to him for strength. Eomer volunteers, and as they slowly get to know and understand each other, there relationship becomes something more.
"Can you save him?" Aragorn finally stepped up to them, and rested a hand on Haldir's brow.
Elrond briefly closed his eyes, concentrating. "Part of him is already at Mandos. Maybe we should not try to reclaim him."
"Rohan owes the Elves a debt. I will do it." Éomer stared at Elrond. "That is, if a Man's life force is good enough for you."
Elrond shook his head. "There is more involved than giving Haldir part of your life force. You will be bound to him. When he is in pain, you will be in pain. When you feel weak, he will feel weak. This bond can only be broken in death, for Haldir will live as long as you do and when you die, he will die."
A lump suddenly formed in Éomer's throat. "And what when he dies before I do?"
"You can always pull him back. He will draw from you as long as you live. Aye, I will do this, but..." and he looked at Éomer, "you must realize you will be left weak after I brought him back."
"I accept that," said Éomer firmly, "and I will keep him close until he has fully healed. Rohan pays her debts in full."
Elrond cringed. /Is that all Haldir means to you? A debt repaid? What if you do not learn to appreciate him? You do not realize it fully yet, but the two of you will be bound to each other for the rest of your life. Once Haldir has recovered you cannot cut him out of your life... but you are young, too young to understand fully what you are about to do. Maybe that understanding will come when you grow older./ Aragorn, Legolas, Glorfindel, Éomer and even Gimli looked at him expectedly, hoping he would heal Haldir. Elrond sighed and then met their eyes, seeking out Éomer's last. "I will ask you one more time; do you really want to give Haldir part of your life force?"
"Aye," said Éomer, his eyes burning with life. "Rohan's debt will be paid."
This fic really introduced me to Eomer as a three dimensional character. Coupled with Haldir, you have two strong characters, one who is head March Warden while the other is head of the Rohirrim, who are use to being in charge. This alone creates tremendous chemistry, and with the addition of conflict, Morgana produces a great piece of fiction. Her site is currently down, so I'm going to direct you to one of the archives at http://www.melethryn.net/author4.html#morgana. This fic features instances of grief, violence, and child abuse. While Halidir and Eomer are the main pairings, we see Legolas and Aragorn fighting Aragorn's destiny, and we also see a different side of Elrond. I love reading Morgana's work because her fics are long and she's a master at details. Its very easy to become immersed in her stories. I give this fic 3 bottles of Jameson's Whiskey. While at the archive, check out her trilogy Love of My Life, Helms Deep, and Behind Emerald Eyes, with a Haldir/Legolas pairing, it's also one of my favorites.
current mood:  recumbent
current music: Lilith Fair Volume 1
|
|
(comment on this)
|
| |
8:55 pm - Fanfic Rec - Changes by Tabaqui
|
Changes by Tabaqui features a Spike/Xander pairing in an alternative universe season five and six. Located at http://www.catbones.com/scarecrow-horses/fanfiction.html, Xander sees the world differently after his trip to Oxnard where he is given a special gift. In this fic, Xander has always been lonely since the death of his friend Jesse, but he is comforted by the spirits of the Hyena and the Soldier. Spike, while caring for Drucilla, inadvertently shows Xander that he is more than a demon. This causes Xander to question his life on the Hellmouth. Armed with a new view, Xander pursues Spike, and mated they face relationship woes, the Scoobies, the Initiative, and Glory. Here's a snippet:
You said you care if I live or die. Why do you care, Harris?" He was so close - inches away, really, and Xander suddenly felt all the blood rush to his face - and his groin. He didn't think that was possible, but there it was, painfully blushing and painfully aroused in 3.2 seconds. *And the crowd goes wild!*
"Umm. I..."
"You...what?" Spike's eyes really were an amazing shade of blue, and Xander chased several color-names around and around his head, wondering which was the most accurate. Sky? Azure? Baby? No, not baby... Spike was saying something.
"What?"
"I said, what's goin' on in that soddin' lump of fluff you call a brain." Xander snapped his mouth shut and glared at the vampire. The tantalizingly close vampire. The vampire who smelt subtly of smoke and leather and *what is that? Not aftershave...just him...*
"Why I care is none of your business. I - it's a long story and - it doesn't matter anyway, just - oh, fuck it." Xander reached out, grabbed Spike's head, and kissed him. As his tongue stroked inside the vampire's cool mouth, the soldier screamed at him.
*What the fuck! This is Spike! This is a vampire! Are you INSANE?* But the other voice in his brain - the Xander voice - said:
*Mmmm... tastes good. Spicy. Like cloves and cream and ... oh ... blood, too, mmmm* Neither voice was particularly helpful, but they both shut up when Spike started kissing him back. The kiss seemed to last forever, and Xander gasped when Spike pulled away, the some-color-blue eyes wide and shocked.
Armed with fantastic slash scenes, violence, and blood play, this is one of the best S/X fics I've read so far. Utilizing canon and specific events from BTVS and Angel the series, Tabaqui creates a world that is unique yet believable. Currently a WIP that is updated almost weekly, you get the feeling that if you had a VCR, you would've taped this weeks episode. The plot is multi-level, and the link between Xander and Spike isn't merely a creative device, it seems more primal and continues to drive the story. We see a strong Oz, Tara, and Dawn who quickly become part of Spike's "Pack", in addition to a power hungry Willow, and a damaged Ethan who has a place in Giles's heart. I heartily recommend this fic with 4 bottles of Jameson's Whiskey, so go read it and put it on your favorites list.
current mood:  productive
current music: The Cardigans - Been It
|
|
(comment on this)
|
| Thursday, August 19th, 2004
| |
7:02 pm - I'm back
|
Much to my dismay, I am home. Brooklyn looks so dirty compared to the Bahamas. I went on a cruise with Royal Caribbean and the boat was fabulous. I didn't get on the rock wall because hey, I didn't want to die, but I did play minature golf for the first time and it was a blast. St. Thomas and St. Marteen are beautiful islands and I didn't want to leave them (sighs). Now I'm back to the real world where I'm unemployed and have serious bills to pay. However, fanfiction is the sunshine of my life, so I will post some recs on saturday(smiles). Now I'm off to check on my friends page and read some of the great fic that was posted in the last two weeks.
current mood: blah
current music: The Breeders - Like a Woman
|
|
(comment on this)
|
| Friday, August 6th, 2004
| |
11:37 pm - Fanfic Rec - Aliances of the Heart by Soar
|
Alliances of the Heart and it's sequels Elassrion and the WIP Alliances Under Seige, is one of my favorite lotr stories because it's an Aragorn/Legolas mpreg and totally AU. In this fic, the fellowship never happenend because the old alliance of elves and men defeated Sauron in the great battle. Aragorn, who was fostered by Elrond, is searching for a mate before he takes the throne as the king of Gondor. He meets the young Prince of Mirkwood and sparks fly.
Elrond noticed his foster son approach and excused himself from his friends before making his way over to join Aragorn.
"What is it my son?" the older elf questioned.
"Did you see the elf who was dancing with Boromir?" Aragorn got out immediately, his face alight with the anticipation of putting an identity to the heavenly body.
Elrond frowned in concentration casting his mind back to his perusal of the dancers. He recalled Boromir dancing with a blonde elf, then recollection hit him and he smiled. "Prince Legolas, son of Thranduil of Mirkwood."
Aragorn repeated the name softly with wonder, "Legolas... He is unattached?" Aragorn questioned worriedly.
Elrond laughed, "Indeed, I believe his father has brought him here tonight in the hopes of finding his son a husband or wife, so that he may build a stronger alliance for his kingdom." Elrond pasted a nonchalant look upon his face as he slyly added, "Gondor is very close to Mirkwood, it would be a fruitful alliance... and I have heard Prince Legolas is fertile." Aragorn looked sharply at his father, and Elrond laughed at the expression of suspicion on the young man's face.
Then Aragorn smiled. "It would indeed be a fruitful alliance." He then turned quickly on his heel and went in search of the young elven Prince.
Unfortunately, everyone isn't happy with Aragorn's choice of a mate. Enemies threaten the couples happiness, and others want Legolas for themselves. In addition to mpreg, this fic also contains, violence, non-con and rape. Located at http://www.angelfire.com/theforce/soarseyrie/fiction.html, it runs the gamut of emotions. Legolas seems young in the first story and we get a glimpse of the warrior he will become. Aragorn is sexy, a little arrogant, but at times clueless and endearing in his quest to be a good husband and father. Court politics has a role, along with elvish customs, lore and magic. Soar updates this story every couple of weeks, and when she does, I do a little boogie and I print it out. Full of joy and angst, it's a fantastic read. I give it 4 bottles of Jameson Whiskey.
current mood:  thankful
current music: Sting - Inside
|
|
(comment on this)
|
|
|
|
|
![[info]](http://p-stat.livejournal.com/img/userinfo.gif){kind=small}
rosebard25's journal