Deviants of the Dark

Here in the Garden of Sin by Ooza

2010-12-11T02:48:00.000-08:00

Here in the Garden of Sin by Ooza

Summary: Edward has spent his entire existence longing for one thing. When he finally gets it, his carefully construction control starts slipping. It doesn't matter to his savior, she's dying either way. Be careful what you wish for, you just might get it.

On TWCS
On FF.net

Donna_rai says:

This Story has been written by the fantastic O_oza

It is twisted from the very beginning, talk about keeping you on the edge of your seat! It keeps you thinking "What the hell is gonna happen next!"

Not only is this story well written but the author has created a brilliant twist, it has me begging for the next chapter to be here now!!

"As Bella stepped into the downpour, a man suddenly appeared in front of her.Under normal circumstances, she probably would have found him attractive. However, one look into his feral, black eyes sent a chill racing up her spine.
"Come with me", he demanded. His voice, smooth and velvety, caressed each word in a way that shot fear through her body. Bella was frozen, too terrified to move. The man's fingers wrapped around her arm tightly. !now" "

All Edward wants is peace and quiet, but with his mind reading abilities that doesn't come after....that is until he comes across Bella. When Edward tries to read her mind something very strange happens and without realising it he has her in the woods.
Bella finds herself in a most unfortunate predicament the moment she sets eyes on Edward.

The scent of her blood and silent mind are enough to seal her fate!

I wont spoil it but trust me the twist and turns in this story are excellent!!

"What do you want?" She hoped to sound strong, but her voice was only a whisper. The man shook his head slowly. "What did you do to me?" "What" "How are you doing it?" he asked frantically. He started walking towards her. She immediately backed away.
"Leave me alone!" Bella screamed as the man lunged at her."

There is only a handful of fics out there that take me by surprise, and I cant predict whats going to happen next.....this is one of them! I honestly didn't want to stop reading.
I am very excited to see what O_oza has in store for this story, she definitely has a way of leaving you in suspense, and i love it

Enjoy.......

Lambcullen says:

This kicks off the a very intriguing start. You think you know what is happening, and yet all of a sudden you are thrown into the utter confusion that Edward is feeling. Edward is utterly perplexed by Bella, and that gives him a caustic edge... maybe even cold.

"The only thing he was sure of was that he would eventually stop her heart from beating one way or another."

However, this isn't your usual Darkward story... there is an odd edge to Bella. Something that I cannot wait to reveal itself.

Ooza's description are eerie.

"As Bella stepped into the downpour, a man suddenly appeared in front of her. Under normal circumstances, she probably would have found him attractive. However, one look into his feral, black eyes sent a chill racing up her spine."

"What did you do to me?"

"I can't hear you, Carlisle. I can't hear anyone."

She does an amazing job of conveying Alice's and Edward's gifts, as they integral to this storyline.

Her descriptions of Edward's darkness are chillingly delicious....and yet there is a vulnerabilty that drips through. Edward is just as confused and lost as Bella is, though I don't think many people see this other side to him.

"I'll be sorry?" He laughed then, a sound so sinister that Bella's short-lived bravery crumbled.

She injects a little humor that you don't expect. Verbal banter between the two is excellent. Bella does not buckle easily. So I was snorting rather loudly when I read this line.

"Alice! She's trapped in a house full of vampires. I really don't think she's concerned about Egyptian thread count."

"You don't have to patronize me."

"I would never," he mocked.

"You're an asshole."

I personally feel this is one of the most layered Darkwards I have ever read. We get the thrist for her blood, and yet we ll feel for Edward. It's amazing how the author conveys that.

Without another word, Edward grabbed Bella by the hair and bent her head back. He took a deep breath before bowing his head and pressing his teeth against her neck. They sliced effortlessly into her skin.

Bella wanted to scream, but she was too startled to do anything. Blood streamed down her neck as Edward remained completely motionless. Then he was sucking, pulling the blood from her body. The wound throbbed under the force of his teeth and lips, but it didn't last long.

Edward pushed away from her with a pained cry and with his hand covering his mouth, fled from the room.

I could go on and on about this fic... really, I could. But it's only seven chapters in so far, so why don't you check it out for yourself.

You will not be sorry....

MUAH!

A Shot in The Dark

2010-11-27T09:42:00.000-08:00

Carnival

By pdd912

This month my recommended one shot is very short and not sweet at all. If you like your Darkward dirty as hell then this should get you going.

Pdd912 is best known for her Multi Chapter fic Into the Grey House, which although it could be said to fall into the category of BDSM is unlike any other such fic in the fandom. What she does best is get into the heart and mind of the submissive.

This story, in barely more than 1K words, describes the chance encounter of a young woman with an enigmatic and strangely beautiful man at a Carnival. With a distant glance they recognize something in each other that draws them together. As the girl allows herself to be lured from her friends the author reveals to us the mentality that requires not just to be humbled but to be humiliated.

“A motion of his hand tells me to get down onto my knees, and I tremble. I can hear the sounds of others outside in the park. The fear of being caught in such a position mingles with the humiliation of being so casually used by him, but my outrage feels more like desire and I find myself kneeling at his feet…”

This is the antithesis of romanticism, consent lies in a very ambiguous area but the confusion is as much in the girl’s own mind as it is in the circumstances. He does not physically or verbally coerce her; yet it is clear on some level she knows she should not be there. It is not in her best interests. It is debasing.

“The shame of my desire seeps from me like bitter honey.”

Her submission resembles that of a religious zealot into self flagellation and humiliating acts, wanting to be used and being exalted by it.

You may well feel the same shame as you read it and enjoy it!

Maelstrom by Shalu

2010-11-14T04:44:00.000-08:00

Maelstrom by Shalu

Summary: Jasper's motorcycle breaks down in the pouring rain. A light in the distance leads him to something he thought he lost, but the discovery may drag him under. SLASH, JxE

Lambcullen says: First of all, I don't read slash. Ever. But something about this fic called out to me, whether
it was the summary, or the amazingly dark banner, I don't know...but I'm not sorry I started it.
I proceeded with caution, worried that I was going to have to stop reading at any moment, but I kept going. Though it's still relatively new, only 5 chapters so far, it sets the scene for a wonderfully dark plot.

Somewhere behind the door, I heard the soft notes of a what I imagined to be a baby grand floating about the house. Something about the melody was familiar and nearly knocked the wind out of me. For a moment, I forgot about the cold, leaning sideways to press my ear to the wood. A strange pressure began building in my chest, rapidly growing uncomfortable. I stepped back.

I blasted through the chapters, wanting to know the back story and what happened between Edward and Jasper. Edward has changed...so much so that Jasper is confused and he wants to know more.

"Edward, what happened to you?"

He was so still, not even blinking. When he finally moved to speak, I startled. "I'll get you some dry clothes."

He disappeared then, but after he left, I noticed a fire had been started. Confused, I didn't know what to think. Before I could ponder too long, Edward had returned with a pair of jeans and a dark sweater, setting them on the chair next to me.

"Thank you," I whispered before he left again, shutting the double doors behind him. I tore off my wet clothes quickly, anxious to get to the part where I found out where he'd been for the last ten years. He doesn't look a day over eighteen and—

"Please don't ask me."

With each chapter, another layer of the story is revealed, but then it asks more questions. Shalu gives us flashbacks of their past together, letting us in a little at a time, and yet leaving us hungry for more.

I stared at the receiver for nearly an hour, the "off-the-hook" beep slapping me in the face. Fear and anxiety rippled through me as the bottom seemed to drop out of my life. That was the last time I spoke to the Masens and the first day I considered Edward was never coming back.

Shalu writes an awesome Jasper.

"I'm doing my damnedest to assimilate this folkloric bitchslap, but you seem to be working just as hard to make it more difficult.
Quit tap-dancing around whatever it is that's driving your mercurial moodswings and spit it out! You were always a temperamental prick, but I still loved you ..."

And there are humerous moments, even in the darkest of converstations between them...

"I am hungry," he admitted. "Don't you want to know what ... or who, in particular, I'll be dining on?"

He didn't blink, his wide blackened eyes burning holes through mine. I glared back with as much energy as I had—which, admittedly, wasn't much.

"You could do me the courtesy of giving me a heads up if it's me," I deadpanned. I couldn't really wrap my head around why he was doing this now, or why I was goading him back. "I'll stick an apple in my mouth or something."

There are flashes of an intriguing back story between Alice & Jasper, and like the rest of this fic... I want more. Trust me, it's impressive to have me WANTING more of a slash fic.

Run...

DonnaRai says: This is a Fic that I wouldn’t normally go for, as I am not that up to date with the whole Slash genre!
On saying this, I was really surprised with how much I enjoyed this fic.
Maelstrom is only 5 chpts long at the moment, and with reading those 5 chpts it’s safe to say that I was hooked.
The story is based around Edward and Jasper; they haven’t seen each other in about 10yrs, but an unexpected incident sees them alone in Edward’s house!
Being a huge Dark fic fan I like to come across fic’s that capture you right from the very beginning, and Shalu has done this wonderfully. It's haunting and emotional, so in my eyes it’s a job well done!!

Enjoy…………

My voice had gone hoarse. I tried to clear my throat, but it was scratchy and painful—not unlike the last hour in this room. "I don't know how you expect me to act, Edward! What more do you want?"
Instantly, he was standing nose to nose with me. "I want to kill you."

Maelstrom on TWCS
Maelstrom on FF.net

Bloody Choices by Nitareality

2010-10-30T09:40:00.000-07:00

Bloody Choices by Nitareality

Summary: In 1347 a great pestilence swept through Europe. The choices that Bella's Father makes set off a string of events he could never have predicted. Dark, vampire Cullens. Mature rating for subject matter, violence and sex.

Donnarai says:

Finding this Fic was like getting a gorgeous new bag (yes, I have a wee bag obsession)!

It has everything!! It's Dark, chilling, tense..... basically, everything i could ever want when looking for a Darkward Fic to read.

This is a history based Fic, and to be honest, I try and avoid Fic's based on this era, but Nitareality is the exception! Her writing is so detailed that it draws me in from the get go.

"Standing in the doorway was a gentleman. He was tall, covered head to toe in a black woolen cloak.
He spoke, his voice commanding, smooth and clear. "Mr. Swan. My name is Edward Cullen.
It would behoove you to allow me entrance, I have a proposition for you." Charlie's eyes shifted to Isabella, not visible to the man as of yet. "I assure you, I won't hurt your daughter."
he visitor was allowed through the entry way. "Yet," the stranger hummed, inaudible to Charlie"

The town is hit by a deadly plague, and Charlie will do anything to proctect Bella even if that mean giving her away to the mysterious Edward Cullen.
Edwards moods give me a serious case of whiplash. One minute you think he is going to play nice, and the next he is so sinister.

"Edward raised his head from Yorkie's drained body, never breaking contact with Bella's eyes.
As he slowly licked the blood from around his lips, his eyes almost black, he smirked at Bella and nodded. "Delicious."

Once again, I wish I was better at writing reviews, because this Fic definetly deserves the best!!

Enjoy......

Lambcullen says:

This fic is a prime example that a high word count doesn't mean you get a great story. Nita's chapters are short, but juicy and right to the point. She has a way of wrapping you up in a time where a sneeze could equal your demise.

Like Donna, I'm not a huge fan of period fics, but while the author does such a wonderful job that I'm lost in her words, rather than the time.

Edward stiffened as Alice linked her arm through Bella's, leading her into the house. Isabella's hair swung rhythmically as she walked with Alice, her free flowing waves contrasting wildly with Alice's tight plaits. Isabella was all warm in browns and lighter shades of earth, as all peasants garb tended to be. Alice was a contrast in emerald green silk, her long black plaits hanging stiffly down the middle of her back. Isabella had seemed to relax a touch with Alice, and Edward was annoyed rather than relieved. He would need to make it clear that Isabella was not here to serve as Alice's new plaything! As he stepped into the manor, he heard Alice giggle and speak. "Bella, I'd like to introduce you to our family, we've all been very anxious to meet you."

Edward is dark -- my favorite kind -- but he has a sinister edge that has me salivating.

Isabella had dropped to her knees then, begging. "Please do not make me lead these people to their death. Their blood will be on my hands, the sin of murder on my soul!" Edward was rigid in his opinion that this was to be her job. No chambermaid or other house staff could be trusted to it. The Cullens couldn't risk exposure from the house staff, or the panic that might effect them, rendering them lifeless if they might attempt to flee.

He crouched down, lifting her chin with his hands and glaring into her eyes. "You will do as you are told, my Isabella," he said, in a low voice that contained a hint of a growl. "You will bring the humans to us or I will ensure that you and your father are very sorry."

Nitareality seems to have a gift for writing everything Dark, because she repeats this awesomeness with her fic Little Red Riding Hood.

You won't be sorry checking out any of Nita's fics. I promise. Just make sure you leave the light one, and have your blankie when you read them.

A Shot in the Dark

2010-10-16T09:25:00.000-07:00

Beyond the Pale

This month’s Shot in the Dark is a bit different. When trawling for a good one shot to read often the best hunting ground is competitions. Since we are interested in the Dark fics we thought it would be educational to look at a competition dedicated to just that.

The contest was by picture prompt with the following remit:-

“A contest for one-shot stories inspired by images that imply secret desires, habits, and happenings. Fetish and deviance. The forbidden. The socially UNacceptable. What goes onbehind closed doors only. What pushes beyond the pale. The otherwise untouchable. The taboo”

For this months posting I asked all the judges, entrants and any readers who wished to send in short reviews for any story they wished. Here they are divided up by the pictures that inspired them.

I made no attempt to pick which stories should be represented so if you think one has been neglected please add a review for it in the comments.

One

Silent Signs by LAli-Cat:

Reading "Silent Signs" I felt for Alice's miserable existence. I don't think I like this Jasper very much, he has the power to change Alice and set her free, but he keeps coming back and using her. He doesn't even talk to her! Poor Alice is trapped, during the day haunted by the demons within her own mind, and at night - by useless hope for her red-eyed demon to come and free her. This is a very well written story.

Review by Detochkina

There really is nothing more dangerous than an addiction to another individual. It takes the highs and lows of narcotics and libations to another level, almost unfathomable if you haven’t experienced it yourself. Silent Signs captures Alice’s addiction, by focusing on elements everyone can understand - secrecy, cravings, pushing to elevate the high to the next level. Anxiety until your next fix, the cycle of damage. Just one more...But picks powerful language to really drive home the point that Alice’s addiction to Jasper is even more dangerous than the the presumptions her care takers operate under.

Review by snshyne

The Loved One by Detochkina and Rags88

I’m a much bigger fan of “show”, than I am of “tell”. Narration that is simply “Bella is 22. She and her friend went to school. They were good kids.” Boring. Fine, so you’ve laid a plot bunny out for me. Awesome.

What’s not boring, is taking the time to show readers what each character looks like, through one another’s eyes. Letting me hear the curiosity in a tone of voice instead of just telling me Edward is... curious.

And oh, he is.

The Loved One jumps right into the thick of things and assumes you’re paying enough attention while reading, to answer the questions you have, for yourself. We discover things the way Edward does: fumbling around in the dark, trusting Bella to lead the way.

As they walk, the dark and the quiet doesn’t bother Edward, but the smell does. It’s overwhelmingly, almost sickeningly sweet here...

She extends her hand and pats the wall, looking for something... The round button in the wall is lit up in weak plastic yellow and they can hear the whirling sounds of the hard working motor in the elevator shaft.

Edward has an idea...

Without giving too much away - because I really, really want you to uncover this for yourselves - this Edward is one of the sweettalkin-est, smoothwalkin-est, creepyhot freakweirdos I’ve found (please, please don’t take offense Rags and Detka, I LOVE him. And I mean this in ONLY the best way). His interests are definitely beyond the pale, and it’s the tender (also: hot), careful, and respectful exploration of them that I adore.

Bella’s willingness to explore his controversial interests with him is what made it great.

Here’s something (a place) that’s very personally sacred and intimate (not in a sexual way, but in a close-to-her-heart way) to Bella, and something that’s relentlessly intriguing, taboo, fetishistic, and curious to Edward. Coming to terms to such a paradox within a relationship is bound to be complicated, but I loved how willing and open-minded (and open-hearted) these two characters were with one another.

What they’re exploring is truly dark, but they keep one another in the light.

“There’s nothing wrong with looking, and you promised...”

Between Edward’s brash honesty, painted by a wonderfully foul mouth, and Bella’s softer, gentler version of the same truths, we take “the tour” of what some people accept as a part of life, and others live in fear of. We discover along with them, things that are hidden from most people, until we’re finally exactly where Edward wants to be with his own Loved One.

Sensing her hesitation, he stops, takes her small hand and places it over his heart, covering it with his. Tenderly looking into her eyes, he whispers to her, “Remember, I promised that you can trust me? And to show you that you’re my loved one forever?”

Bella nods again, and Edward breathes next to her alabaster cheek, “Let me.”

Go. Read. Now. And join me, please, in urging the authors toward the continuation they’ve promised. Once you’ve finished the last paragraph, you’ll want it just was much as me.

Review by Yellowglue

Two

The Rabbit and the Fox by Bookjunkie1975

In a contest full of stories exploring deep, dark, and occasionally disturbing, themes, BookJunkie1975 did something no other author was able to do. She wrote something sweet and fluffy and took us all by surprise. The Rabbit and the Fox was so delightfully different it simply had to have a judge's mention for 'sweet relief'.

Review by Sweetp-1

I was giddy to read Bookjunkie1975's words after devouring her OJWard contest entry. She has such a knack for creating relationships between characters. They're so solid, it makes you ponder why they weren't written that way by Mz. Meyer herself!

Also, when someone uses the words "coquettishly' and "rotund" to describe their main characters you know it's going to be a great story.

I knew nothing about this particular flavor of fetish before reading BookJunkie's funny interlude between Ms. Cope and coach Clapp. Now, however, I wish there was a Facebook application that would create a name for my imaginary, fluffy face.

“Shelly twisted and turned in front of the mirror and Norman watched as her long, bushy tail swayed provocatively back and forth with every swing of her full hips.

"What?" she blinked up at him. "Don't you think I'm foxy?" She burst out in a fit of giggles that only grew louder when she inadvertently snorted.”

Maybe it’s the images of my elementary school gym teacher and the office secretary that make this one-shot so hilarious. Maybe it’s the children’s song I know that asks the singer to “shake your bushy tail.” Whatever it is, I am so grateful to Mz. Bookjunkie for braving the dark side of this contest and coming up with something truly taboo and tummy tickling.

Reviewed by Portia Khalo

In a lot of ways this was the bravest and edgiest of all the entries because ‘it went there’. It showed us that even taboos have there funny side and in its own way made fun of us all for seeking the taboo. Very tongue in cheek.

Review by dihenydd

Four

My Heart of Darkness by Einfich Mach

This one shot haunts me. I'll be driving in my Mommy-wagon, trying to remember my to-do list, and suddenly the unspoken threads of the story will seep into my mind. You know it's a good one when it creeps up on you.

Honestly, I don't want to tell you a thing about the plot because I just want you to read it. Devour it and let it sit inside your mind, and slowly sink into your heart, and bleed out from there until you're moved to leave Mz. Mach a review and tell her how magnificently she captured this Bella and her Edward.

I feel like I've peeked at a document i shouldn't have seen, but can't turn away. "It has been a week since she made the offer, and I've woken every night since that afternoon in this condition. Every part of me wants to give in to her request. It is my deepest darkest fantasy, but what moves me more is the idea that I could share it with her."

Go now! Shoo! You have reading to do.

Review by Portia Khalo

There are very few stories I could honestly call chilling. This is absolutely one of them. Bone chilling and horrifyingly intriguing.

Review by morethanmyself

I find it difficult to put into words how this story makes me feel, and yet I know exactly what it does to me. It's beautiful, stirs an immense emotional reaction, and when Edward is dreaming about entering Bella, even on the second read when I know exactly what is happening (which I didn't quite on the first go), it's incredibly arousing. What does that say about me?

Review by vampireisthenewblack

For me this was definitely the story that captured the spirit of the contest the mos. It dealt with a very sensationalist subject in a way that was almost philosophical. I had heard about fetishes like this and they at once repelled and fascinated me. Mostly because I couldn’t understand the motivation. While I still don’t understand on an intellectual or emotional level I think I might have an inkling at a visceral level now.

Review by dihenydd

Shattered Dawn by Nitareality

I love the idea of this story, a viable alternative to Breaking Dawn. It actually feels more plausible and true to the characters, in some ways. But, my favorite thing about Nita's writing, and this story, is her ability to create graphic, gruesome images with only a few words, forcing the reader to fill in the horrific blanks.

Review by morethanmyself

What I really liked about this story was the similarity to really convoluted whodunnits. There was a way to commit the perfect crime and get away with it, but can Edward pull it off. Very cleverly thought out.

Review by dihenydd

Little Foxes by AmelieGray

Written in third person, present tense, and with the most chillingly detached voice I may ever have read; Little Foxes is a look into the lives of two characters: Bree and Riley.

Silently trudging under the weight of a violent past; Bree has come to live with Riley, his parents, and his less than kind brothers. The tale that unfolds from there is one of horror, hesitation, and hopeless hand washing.

There’s a motif that keeps cropping up that gives the almost clinically cold narration a kind of poetic feel - eyes. Bree’s eyes that are always wide, but seeing nothing.

Bree’s eyes with nothing in them. Nothing at all except for brown and black pupil.

The story is told through Riley’s eyes. We see what he doesn’t want to see. We turn away when he turns away. And it’s written with such a matter of fact tone, that when he did wrong, I felt the chill of guilt in my own gut, like I was just as much at fault because I read it.

What I liked most about this piece was that I felt it was the story that walked right up to the line - to so many lines - straightened it’s back, turned it’s nose up, and spread it’s arms to lay out one of the most disturbing things I’ve ever read.

When I was bouncing around ideas for this contest with some of the other judges, one of the things that struck me was the idea of a haunting image as opposed to a simply grotesque image. For me, an image that is tale-telling without being obviously horrendous is much longer lasting and more intensely impacting than the straight-up shock-for-the-sake-of-shocking image.

Think: single child’s shoe on the side of the road (this is the image we started with).

Think: bloody gloves (Little Foxes).

Think: a dirt-stained face and creaky floor boards (Little Foxes).

Think: a fly, half open (Little Foxes).

Think: There is still a film of steam over the window; his fathers shaving cream hovering precariously on the edge. The soap bubbles cling to the bottom of the sink, as his hands stroke up and down his wrists - slowly at first, but building tempo, until his nails are gripping at the skin.

(Little Foxes.)

These are the details that make it real. That stick with you long after reading.

Without ever crossing the line she’s sneering at, or burning the envelope she’s pushing with all her might; AmelieGray meticulously plants some of the most powerful imagery for your eyes as well as your ears. I don’t hesitate to flounce without the slightest hesitation when an author writes about terror with an exploitative pen. But Amelie handles these ideas with careful respect and has captured exactly what I wanted from this contest - the haunting image. The happenings in this story will stay with me for a terrifyingly, long, long time. Read it. But be warned: once you have, you can’t unread it.

Review by Yellowglue

Five

Release by WritingBabe

The thing I loved most about this tale was how the picture prompt chosen was woven so delicately through the whole story. Although it was one of my personal favorite images, it's a difficult one to write directly into a plot line without giving away the ending. WritingBabe did it brilliantly.

There are multiple, subtle, taboos in this piece as well that made me think about what a "taboo' really is. When it's a personal secret, a treasured taboo, it affects only one person. The number of people that carry the secret, however, don't diminish the weight of knowing.

Bella is sneaky here, protective of her battered heart, and is able to accomplish something much like canon Bella's slipping away from Alice and Jasper to meet James at the ballet studio. "She had done it, severed the last tie. And left her heart the only place she could." WritingBabe writes, and the sepia toned words she's woven give way to a red streak.

There's a mystery here, wrapped in Jane Austen's words and tainting the tied-up ending to Bella's narrative. Who is he who gives punishment? I hope there are many, many readers to puzzle on the answer.

Reviewed by Portia Khalo

I'm guessing someone else will probably mention Release, but I had to just pop in and say that this was by far one of the most angst-ridden stories. It hurt so much, but if you're into that sort of thing, it's definitely something you'd love!

Review by Sweet Dulcinea

This contest had more than its fair share of new writers entering and all three were exceptional stories. This one blew us away with its complexity and the way it played on our preconceptions. At first I though it was a vampfic because it seemed so cannon. Then all the twisty little details leave us as confused as Bella. Unlike canon, when Edward New Moons you actually feel like he has really gone (and good riddance). However although Edward (and Jacob) are a constant presence in the story they never actually make an appearance. This is all about Bella and the choices she makes. I loved the ambiguities and uncertainties that were left. I am not a fan of tying everything up over neatly at the end.

Review by dihenydd

Nine

Red by 22blue.

RED was an intriguing story that left me wondering. Does Bella stop seeing Edward now that she sees he has a family? What happens after "one"?

Review by rmcrms5

A very sophisticated story elegantly written. Just enough non judgementalism about the erotic asphyxiation to make it edgy. Perfectly paced with nothing superfluous and nothing missing.

Review by dihenydd

Fire, Blood, Truth by vampireisthenewblack

I really enjoyed this story, and selected it as my judge's pick in BtP, because I thought it fit the purpose of the contest very well. It's the story of Alec's change and the way Aro manipulates and possesses him when is he is young -- both as a human and as a vampire -- and what goes through Alec's mind all the while. It's twisty, and it may squick some due to the sexual content, but this author did a great job portraying a taboo vampire situation without making it gratuitous. The entire time I read, I was simply fascinated.

Review by Sweet Dulcinea

Ten

Delight, Delectation, Divine by snshyne

Darksper. Need I say more? I found this story to be an interesting and intriguing depiction of an extremely dark Jasper . . . but as a gifted human. It was weird and creepy in parts, and I'd say that near the end, things went far . . . maybe a little too far. But at the same time, that was what made it truly go beyond the pale, into a place where readers might feel uncomfortable; it was a brave choice by the author, but I thought it worked. And the end of this one . . . oooooohh! Loved it!

Review by Sweet Dulcinea

Typically, I don’t read Jasper centric fics, but I have to say how much I loved snshyne’s dark take on him. Given his canon talents, it’s so easy to see how he could fall victim to his ability to sense and manipulate emotions. However, I wouldn’t categorize this particular Jasper as a victim of himself. No, this sinister Darksper was rather intriguing in a delightful and delectable way.

Review by 22blue

Eleven

Bleeding Out by morethanmyself

This is one of those stories I’m almost afraid to admit to how much I relate to it. But I do. Morethanmyself has braved a subject that could never be talked about with fellow parents or even their own husband – how would a mother and wife be seen who’s outwardly admitted to have been weighed down by the monotony of her own family? It’s not that simple, however, it’s much more. The complexity of the thoughts and feelings of the narrator is palpable and, as I’ve stated, so very relatable.

Review by 22blue

I cannot praise this story highly enough. I found it stunning. However it is hard to say much without giving anything away. Suffice to say that it felt so intensely personal that I felt voyeuristic.

Review by dihenydd

Twelve

Proxy by MarchHare5

This colored my world in blurry lines of sympathy.

Bella is married to Carlisle whom is unable to perform his husbandly duties in the bedroom. With heartbreak and hope the reader is left at a crossroads.

After the dinner scene we enter the Cullen home where Edward Masen agrees to become Carlisle’s proxy and each fine detail left my heart pounding.

The contest was about pushing the envelope, about tearing down the walls of our own judgment. MarchHare5 certainly gave this complicated affliction the sympathy and enticement it deserved.

Review by luvrofink

Fifteen

The Taste of Blood by InDiscord

The Taste of Blood is a story that explores exactly that - blood play. While the theme might be one that we've all seen before in this fandom, InDiscord cleverly turns it on its head and gives us something unique, and surprisingly...sweet. I know - it's a weird term for a story that explores some fairly squicky subject matter but it's the touching vulnerability of the main characters that stole my attention. Their innocence, and the sense of wonder they share as they explore the limits of their relationship helps this story push right up to the line but it doesn't go over - certainly taboo but still tasteful. The Taste of Blood was InDiscord's first story and I for one am eagerly looking forward to reading more from her.

Review by Sweetp-1

I never thought I would see the day that I described blood play as sweet. Then I read this story. It is very sweet and very hot, in a twisted kind of way.

Review by morethanmyself

I liked this because it really did push some serious limits for me. Blood play I'm good with, it was the blood play while Bella was menstruating that normally would have hit some squick buttons. And yet, it didn't. InDiscord described the act—all of the acts within the story—in a way that made me see the beauty of it. Also, it was beautifully written, the kind of prose that I can read over and over again.

Review by vampireisthenewblack

Creepy – sort of. I liked this one shot, and can definitely see how then end would be the epitome of sexual blood play. Kind of icky, but they found their equals in each other, and I can’t help but wonder what will happen with these two, though?!

Reviewed by 22blue

It's strange how an activity that between vampires is something we have come to accept (yes even the menstruation scene) but changing the protagonists to humans and it suddenly becomes taboo. Very cleverly and sweetly realised.

Review by dihenydd

Sixteen

En Pointe by wombatkat

Bella Swan is the linchpin of a very different sort of treaty between vampires and wolves in wombatkat's "En Pointe." When a dark, dangerous Edward demands her as part of the bargain to keep the peace, Bella seals the treaty by agreeing to be his slave despite Jacob’s protests. Domward appears to have all the cards, whips and restraints, and incorporates Bella’s dread of her ballet lessons into her punishments as his sexual slave, but I suspect this Bella has the power to tame him. Luckily, wombatkat has continued the story, so we’ll get a chance to find out.

Review by writingbabe

Wombatkat already knows this, but I had to set podette down not once, not twice, not three - but four times while reading this story. The things this boy says and does to this girl go above and beyond the call of AU sex appeal.

I’ve never read something so deviant, and so tenderfeeling at the same time.

There’s a slowmoment in this story; a really slowed down moment, that zooms so far in on the contact between Edward and Bella that I almost feel like a voyeur while reading it.

Attention to and respect for a single photo prompt: Check.

Teetering right up to the line without crossing it: Check.

Exploration of and respect for taboo content: Check. Check.

New hottest vampward lemon I’ve ever read: MotherfuckingCheck.

Seeking to teach Bella a lesson about the impossible; Edward is all authority, all dominance, and all the things that are best for Bella - his cut. His earnings after a sort of war. She went willingly, and stays willingly - but she’s his. In every sense of the word.

There’s growling and condescending, and orders and spankings, and oh my goodness gracious the things he says!

“You will get to class on time.”

He gave me a thrust. I moaned at how he filled me.

“You will be a good little pet.”

He pushed twice, hard and fast. I gasped and rolled my hips upward.

“You will study and please me at my leisure.”

Hard and fast and smooth... I felt the fire build in my stomach. Blood dripped from my shoulder and he licked it.

“You will remember your place or I will break the treaty. I will go back there and end that dog you love.”

En Pointe; now two chapters in with plans to continue (la beep!!), is currently at the top of my juiciest, most wonderful AU citrus list. You are totally missing out on the most twitterpated tummy butterflies if you’re not reading this.

Review by Yellowglue

Seventeen

This Woman’s Work by NitaReality

For This Woman’s Work, Mz. Nita plucked her pictorial inspiration from it’s computer-screen frame and placed it perfectly inside her heart-breaking story. Of all the entries I read, this one used the image most effectively and intuitively. “In her perfect little subdivision filled with perfect little soccer moms, sitting alone on her perfect little street, it took 30 minutes for someone to stop and try to speak to her.” She writes, and I feel the disconnection that Bella feels toward her entire neighborhood as a very real cultural wound.

Without giving away too much of the story, please know that Carlisle plays his role perfectly in this tale, and gave my heart a small nugget of peace.

Edward's part in this painful play was a relief too. Nita's characterizations are a keen play on canon; unexpected but entirely needed.

This story brought up so many feelings in me. A Mother’s pain for her children is unbearable on a good day, and the thought that anyone, this Bella included, would have to survive that kind of hurt made me weep. To sabotage your entire life for the sake of your children’s future, even though they’ll hate you, takes a deep kind of bravery.

This is the kind of story that makes me remember why I love fan fiction so much. It reminds me of what I’m capable of, both as a mother and a writer.

Review by Portia Khalo

This story haunted me for days after I read it. It is beautifully written with heartbreaking imagery. One line that stayed with me, “She looked down at her hand, finding it was wrapped tightly around a knife, almost in a lovers caress of an aroused cock; a knife firmly implanted into the life-source of her victim.” What made it taboo is how nitareality perfectly captures the feelings of inadequacy that a woman can feel in everyday life – a feeling that is common but rarely spoken of. Through intermingling past and present storylines, the reader is able to get inside Bella’s head and connect with her and her pain.

Review by arden8283

The Boy Who Came Between Us by Kimmydonn

Very intense and very raw. I found interesting the idea of Alice being so selfless and attuned to her friends, that she was ready to sacrifice her own happiness for the sake of her best friends. It was almost too much how willing she was to give up her own love. Too bad it didn't help. From the beginning, when I learned about Edward's coping mechanism, till the end when he gave up on himself, gave up on his own life, I felt helpless myself. Excellent writing, very well done piece.

Review by Detochkina

Nineteen

The Wait, by netracullen

If there's anything beyond the pale, it's having an affair with your sister's husband. The good sister's husband. The sister who helped you. In netracullen's "The Wait," Edward is married to Bella's sister Alice, but Bella and Edward's attraction is undeniable. Their affair deepens until Alice's pregnancy forces Edward to make a choice. And he chooses his wife and child. Bella's choice? To wait. That's what I'm doing, too: waiting and hoping netracullen continues this wonderfully moody fiction populated with fascinating, flawed characters. There are no heroes here, just shades of grey. And grey is my favorite color.

Review by writingbabe

I'm not sure I can pinpoint exactly why this story tied my heart up in knots, but it did. The story is a heartbreaking and I think the indefinite ending makes it more so, we're just left with this image of broken and discarded Bella determined to wait forever.
Review by morethanmyself

'The Wait' is a tale brilliantly written - the sentiments weaving through the
story fluidly – with an equally intriguing plot. The author manages to
capture the emotions seamlessly, whilst maintaining the integrity of the
characters. It is a heartbreaking, gut-wrenching tale of blooming love and
the tragic loss of the same. At first glance it may seem like the ideal story
based on adultery, but if you look deeper, you will find that it is so much
more. Truly worth a read, a review and ample appreciation.

Review by obsessed.cheela

Vanishing by SwedenSara

This story, like all the stories in this contest, deals with dark themes. After a traumatic attack by some boys from school, Alice seeks to find a way to ensure that the same thing doesn't happen again. Hating the way her body has developed she decides that the way her body looks is the one thing that she can have control over.

This story is a very insightful look into the mind of an anorexia sufferer. SwedenSara has obviously had some exposure to this horrible disease and she sensitively details the twists and turns of Alice's mind. She shows how easy it can be to slide into anorexia.

I was incredibly moved by SwedenSara's story and found myself thinking about it for days afterwards.

Review by Annetteinoz

Not an easy story to read. The assault was dealt with very well - not exploitative yet filling you with a sense of revulsion and anger. The mechanics of the disease are exceptionally well described in terms that make it understandable and make it feel like it has its own internal logic.

Review by dihenydd

The Revenger by Mrs.TheKing

2010-09-25T07:09:00.000-07:00

The Revenger by Mrs.TheKing

Summary: Bella is numb after the death of her family. When she finds that she has a disturbing talent, Bella has a new purpose in life. Killing Edward Cullen might be just what she needs to end her pain. AU ExB Rated M for Violence, Dark Themes, Lemons, Cursing.

DonnaRai says:

As soon as I started reading I couldn’t stop!!

This is defiantly a Fic that you can get your teeth into; it’s a roller-coaster ride of hurt, anger, love, grief and revenge, and it captures you from the very beginning!

Bella’s life is turned upside down after a tragic accident that leaves her without her husband and daughter. It’s safe to say that she isn’t coping very well, but she soon discovers that she has a disturbing talent that helps take her mind off of the numbness. She realises that she has a new purpose in life, keeping the memory of her loved ones alive and violence! Violence helps her rediscover the memories of her loved ones so needless to say it’s not going to be pretty for those in the receiving end.

“Every time she landed another crushing hit, the red around him got smaller and it felt fantastic. The more he screamed, the more satisfied she became. She stepped on his femur and grabbed his ankle. Effortlessly, she bent his leg until it gave a sickening snap. She started laughing out loud with the euphoria as she proceeded to break each of his limbs. He was screaming like an animal getting hit by a car and it made her so powerful.”

Edward is the man who has and gets everything that he wants with the click of his finger, the object of his affection is Bella, she is ruthless and that turns Edward on even more, he has to have her and he will stop at nothing to get her!

"You will be mine, you vicious bitch."
He bit his lip as he watched her merciless, flawless actions. The last image was his favourite. She glanced towards the camera covered in blood and smiled like a kid on Christmas morning.
Edward Cullen always got what he wanted. He fully expected the girl to be delivered to his door.
"And soon."

Mrs. TheKing has done an absolutely fantastic job with this, its dark on so many levels and it’s great to see Bella kick some ass!!

Not only do you get a whole lot of violence (which in my opinion is always good) but you also get a truly heart breaking story, seeing Bella trying to cope day in and day out was really hard. It’s so well written, the author has done an excellent job with the essence of Bella’s grief, and with each word you feel every emotion.

Enjoy.....

Lambcullen says:

The summary for this had me very intrigued, KILL Edward? (Collective Fandom Gasp!) It was certainly a summary that deserved more investigation, and by the end of chapter one I was hooked. Bella is hurt is the most devastating of ways, and clearly has not found a way to cope with this. Her sadness drips from the page. It’s as if she is seeing herself through a sheet of glass -- she is numb.

“She had been numb for so long she almost liked the feel of her heart clattering wildly against her ribcage.”

And that’s when her “special ability” is unmasked.

I don’t want to spoil it..but it’s a unique gift and one that helps Bella make it through the day.

“His red aura touched her skin and she felt her blood boil. Her skin was so incredibly alive. He pulled her through the crowd and out and exit door, snarling victorious insults at his buddies in the club.”

Donna is right when she says this is a roller-coaster, and it’s one that I love every minute of! The chapters are a perfect size the lure you in, and before you know it you’re all caught up and are left thirsty for more!

It isn’t until the more recent chapters that we meet Edward, though I was caught up in Bella’s story so didn’t miss him at all. Edward is, along with Bella, is very different. He is cold. Evil, even.

“Power was a surge that he loved, but lately—and he would never tell a living soul this—the power hadn't given him a rush in a while. He had become more vicious, asking for things that were unattainable, and yet people found ways to make his wishes a reality. Impossible things. Horrible things. If he could dream it up, others would do it.”

There are currently seventeen chapters, but the chapters are a nice size, and therefore, it’s a quick read. We’re just getting to the good bits -- the interaction between Edward and Bella, and maybe, so answers about their “gifts”.

"I think you need to understand how dangerous I am, Isabella. This bravado will only be tolerated until it bores me."

Mrs. TheKing is certainly twisting this Edward and Bella into characters rarely seen in the fandom, and I love her for it!

The Revenger on FF.net

The Green Dress by littlesecret84

2010-09-18T07:09:00.000-07:00

Summary: Isabella Swan and Edward Cullen cross paths one evening. This will be a night that he never forgets.

AmelieGee says:

I found the dress at a vintage store in New York, back when I thought I had a chance. Long, emerald green silk. Spaghetti straps, a high-front slit, longer in the back with a flowing train. It leaves my back completely exposed. It's tight, very tight over my stomach and around my hips.

...It's going to look breathtaking in the wind when I'm out on the cliffs later tonight.

Imagery is something that a lot of authors find hard to master. There’s that delicate balance between baring all to the reader, going overboard with details and long-winded explanations.

LittleSecret84, however, gives us enough detail to make us weave the picture in our head. Bella chose her dress back when she felt as though she had a choice in the world - the type of dress that is saved in the back of a closet, for that right moment, that occasion that deserves a breathtaking entrance.

Bella is ready for her moment. She is going to give it her all.

The scenes are evenly paced between Bella, and her yet-unseen admirer. His voice is casual, but the type of casual that sends chills down your spine - Dracula bidding you welcome into his castle, the spider’s gentle wisp as it carefully descends towards its prey.

He’s chosen her because of her name, because of who she is - Bella, beautiful in her green dress with her pretty name.

I like girls with pretty names. Last week in Chicago it was a Rosalie. All golden hair and big blue eyes with perfect skin. I was going to fuck her right before, but her voice was unpleasant and she kept talking and talking and I thought quick and easy would be best, but wouldn't it be wonderful to see bright red running down her white shirt? Now I don't usually enjoy using sharp objects-things get messy and I really liked the grey shirt I was wearing that night, but once the idea of the red and the white started playing in my head I couldn't help myself. Pretty Rosalie with the pretty name. A shame. I should have just fucked her right before.

Just like Bella, we aren’t told directly who he is. But we are shown, gently, casually, all with that slow sensation of rising hairs and goosebumps on chilled flesh, what he wants from Bella. He is drawn to her because of the idea of beauty, and she is drawn to the green dress, to the idea of whether the skirt of the dress is going to look like wings when [she] falls, opening in the front and flying back.

The story unfolds like a haunting swan song, like a beautiful tableau that strikes some chord deep in you. Beauty is the core of the story - simple, but chilling. He chooses her because of her name, because of her lips, and tiny slender hands, and a long white neck.

When I read this the first time, I was in a hurry. I skimmed through the words, to the end, registering the main point - but that’s a mistake. This is the type of story you have to unwrap, savor word by word, taste it on your tongue:

This one is special. You should taste her. Take your time and make it sweeter than the ones before. The end won't be any different, either way.

mjinaspen says:

Boy meets girl. Boy kisses girl. They live happily ever after. Fairytales are nice. But this isn’t a fairytale. It is, however, quite lovely and somewhat lyrical in its prose. And there is an HEA of sorts, depending upon your definition of HEA.

From the very first moment in this fic you hear the music. Bella is a metronome, steady and focused. Edward is the soaring, circling, then diving melody. They complement each other beautifully. They are a symphony of death and despair.

"I'd like to introduce myself, I'm Edward Cullen."
She sighs and shakes her head.
"Don't waste your time. I'm only around for another two hours."
"That's more than plenty of time for what I had in mind."
"And what's that?" she asks.
"A dance, maybe two."
And then I fuck you twice up against a tree.
Once because I want to, the second to make up for my mistake with Rosalie.

"Do I look like I would get up and dance here?"
"You don't look like you should be here at all."
"Oh, I know. Just two more hours."

Like most Bellas and Edwards in Twific, these two are destined. For what, you don’t know, but it becomes immediately clear that they will fulfill each other’s needs and desires.

Edward quickly assesses the value of each person, place, and thing, while Bella just bides her time, uncaring about anything of value, including her jewelry and the cash she carries in her purse. They serve a purpose for each other without immediately recognizing it.

One of my favorite lines:

She turns her back to me and plays with her bracelet, a large, ugly object that looks too expensive.
But then Bella looks expensive.

There is a reason Bella seems careless and Edward doesn’t, but I don’t want to ruin it for you by giving too much detail – the details are part of what you’ll love about this fic – suffice to say that he is obsessed with her and she allows it, welcomes it. He tells her what she wants to hear and gives her what she needs.

“You are too pretty, your body is too precious to be broken on the rocks.”
She tilts her head to the side and considers this.
"What do you suggest?"
"Kiss me."

For a brief moment you think LitteSecret84 will turn the car around and give these two the traditional ending – wedding dress, babies, white picket fence… but thankfully she doesn’t. That’s not to say Edward and Bella aren’t forever affected by this experience, they do touch each other and neither is able to take it back. Not that either of them would want to.

I place my hands on either side of the neck, caressing, adoring, as I greedily consume the first kisses I have received in years … I continue to kiss her, and I can tell that she too hasn't felt anything against her lips for quite some time.

They spend just two desperate hours together, way too short a time, and LitteSecret84 doesn’t muck it up with mundane details that mean nothing to us as readers (or to Bella and Edward.) Nothing is lost in the telling of this story. It’s visual, sensual, and beautiful.

If I’m making The Green Dress sound romantic, I’m glad, because it is. It’s dark and terrifying, too, but then it wouldn’t be here, would it? Go read it once or twice. I promise you won’t be sorry.

dihenydd says:

It is hard to know what to say about this perfect little story without quoting every word back. It is very short – only 3K words but it says everything that needs to be said.

In the beginning Edward and Bella know nothing about each other. In the end (two hours later) they know everything that matters. What struck me about this story when I first read it were the imagery and the feeling of rightness. I was going to say fatalism but that somehow conveys a sense of settling for something less than you want, and they don’t do that. In that sense they are in fact soul mates, they were made for each other, for that moment. They complete each other.

I have always been enticed by writing that can make me see something from a new perspective. I like my preconceptions to be thwarted and I love ambiguity. Purely factually this should be a horror story; but it isn’t. It isn’t a love story – though it might have been. It is however about art. About seeking that perfect moment, the one that defines you.

Bella has been planning for it. She visualizes it.

“I slip on gold vintage t-strap pumps and take a final look at the dress.
It's going to look breathtaking in the wind when I'm out on the cliffs later tonight.”

Edward has been planning for it. He fantasizes about it.

“Her skirt billows perfectly with each step she takes. Her ass is tight and round, and I want to watch the green silk slide off it, exposing more white flesh in the moonlight."

The imagery is stunning and the thread running through it is the green dress symbolizing something potent and very different for each of them.

“I wonder if the skirt of the dress is going to look like wings when I fall, opening in the front and flying back.”
“Isabella is a vision… the dress spread out around her, pale skin in the moonlight”

The Green Dress on FF.net

This Buried Life by Emmanuelle Nathan

2010-09-11T03:23:00.000-07:00

GUEST REVIEW: This Buried Life by Emmanuelle Nathan

SUMMARY: Bella Swan is content with her career and her new life in London but feels that there is still something missing. Will a chance encounter with sinister yet intriguing stranger hold the answer to what she truly desires? AU. Rated M for lemony reasons.

Yellowglue says:

First:

But often, in the world’s most crowded streets, / But often, in the din of strife, / There rises an unspeakable desire / After the knowledge of our buried life; / A thirst to spend our fire and restless force / In tracking out our true, original course; / A longing to inquire / Into the mystery of this heart which beats / So wild, so deep in us - to know / Whence our lives come and where they go...
-Matthew Arnold’s “This Buried Life”

And then:

I pull my coat more tightly around me. These British January mornings are freezing and dark, and I’m not quite awake yet. I am still trying to feel more human as I finish the ten minute walk to the Underground station. This is where I know I’ll be brutally woken up by all the other commuters...
-Emmanuelle Nathan’s “This Buried Life” - Chapter One

I don’t know that I’ve ever read a story where the opening lines reflect so clearly the lines it drew inspiration from. Arnold (poet and critic) speaks of a kind of self-discovery, during the busiest and hardest of times - an awaking from what we’ve always been, to who (or what) we truly may be. It’s an unignorable invitation to immediately begin questioning and uncovering.

Emmanuelle has paralleled her protagonist’s opening efforts to this sudden shake from what she thought was lucidity, perfectly. The not quite awake feeling in the crowded Underground station, trying to pull her coat tighter, trying to feel more human... it’s not someone inhuman that we’re reading though. It’s Bella: American in England, wounded once by love and on the lonesome defense, sought-after Harvard grad working at one of the most prestigious museums in the world.

And one of the other commuters does wake something in her. Brutal, like Emmanuelle said, and unspeakable, like Arnold did. A longing to inquire into the mystery, so unspeakable in fact, that soon she not only refuses to speak of it - but more often than not - to allow herself to even think thoughts regarding it.

Scenes written out according to days of the week, we follow Bella through her responsible routines. Perpetually playing it safe, her work and her research have become her buried life, until one morning something deeper and more wild than she’s ever known rises up in her. She cannot look away. She cannot put her finger on it (mentally, or physically). She cannot process or pick apart the passenger whose stare has pierced her; whose slight grin has frightened, angered, and amazed her.

This is a man who’s crossed the line without touching, speaking, or even being anywhere near her. Yet she’s invaded, and when her mind as well as her heart tell her to leave without a second thought or glance, she does.

Every time.

Only to be brought back into his line of vision, and eventually to where his hands and words can reach. Slowly. Little bits of him at a time, that are heavy with mystery and a modern kind of darkness, are revealed. You, just like Bella, have no idea who (or what) he is, where he came from, or what exactly he wants. You have an idea, based on the way you feel more than hear his breath, and that thing that he does with just one finger -

He makes no attempt to touch me anywhere else and my mind can’t understand how my body can be reacting so strongly to a touch I would never have imagined as being erotic. Except here... now... with him... He wants this. He wants me at his mercy and weak. (- Chapter Five)

Her body right? That’s what he wants... Right?

When I read, I read just as much for the quality of the writing as I do for the story itself. An amazing plot line or awesome character idiosyncrasies, development, and growth, are next to nil if the writing fails to carry them through with due justice. At the same time, awe-inspiring and articulate writing doesn’t do much without an actual story to tell. Finding a tale that has both, that goes beyond your expectations is pretty rare. And wonderful.

I was recc’d this story with a “trust me - just read chapter one”. And now I’m all but demanding you do the same. Trust me. Just read chapter one. If you get to the end of it and don’t want to continue to the next, I’ll be dumbfounded, because I’m betting you can’t not keep reading.

“Don’t ever make me wait again.”

This Edward is the exact incarnation of tall, dark, and dangerous. It’s his mystery that makes and keeps him deviant, and completely captivating.

“I mean it.”

Dihenydd says:

I am not a fan of horror or scary stories but I love a story that is so atmospheric you can feel yourself drawn unwillingly into the authors imagination. This is one such story.
It began as a one shot for the Show Us Your Dark Side Contest but has been altered and extended.
Bella is a high functioning professional who has recently moved to London for her dream job in the British Museum. Her life revolves around her research, partly because it fascinates her but also as a refuge from an emotionless life. A painful previous relationship has her avoiding any romantic entanglements. She is rational and intelligent trying to hold her own in an intensely competitive academic environment. In such a situation job security is not a given and rivalry can be vitriolic, petty and personal. This is so well conveyed that the author must have first hand knowledge.
Bella is tied to her routines and travels to work every day on the tube. She becomes aware that someone is watching her – and not being furtive about it.

“His stare is not natural, not for a Brit, not for any nationality for that matter. It's beginning to creep me out, and again I think he knows it. I frown. In response his smile widens. He is now leering at me. I am self-conscious and suddenly angry. He is getting off on this.”

As days progress his behavior becomes more forward and controlling. This is not however a titillating exhibitionist smutfic. It is actually quite scary as seen through Bella's inner turmoil. She is a smart woman who is aware of the dangerous nature of what she is undertaking and the impact it may have on her entire life.
Although the element of danger starts to feel like an added inducement to this unusual seduction, Bella is genuinely frightened. She is however also aroused, against all her instincts and logic. As things escalate her feelings of shame also increase. She is not that sort of person, she is not wanton. She is terrified that she will be found out and not only lose her dignity and her credibility but also her job, which she loves above all else. Yet there are moments when she wants to lose control and not be so restrained.

{The fact is that I know I am here now because no matter how scared and wrong this is, no matter how out of character this is for me, I want to know what happens next. My whole life I've been cautious and sheltered. This is a chance to walk on the wild side, even if it's just to dip my toe in. I'll be in a public place.}
{This is foolhardy. This is dangerous. This is the most exhilarating thing I have ever done…}

The story could not be better named, the whole feeling is one of claustrophobia from the physical description of the crowded train and the intensity of sexual repression to the stifling pettiness of academic competitiveness.

Of course the stalker is Edward, though we do not know if he is vampire or human. He is however controlling and not gentle or reassuring. In fact he seems to get off on her fear and uncertainty.

{"You are to be completely quiet. Any noise and this will end immediately. Nod if you understand".
I nod. He watches intently as I bite my lip. His eyes narrow and I nearly shout out as he suddenly pinches my upper thigh. I certainly wasn't expecting this and it stings like hell. Whether he likes it or not I am very glad I've been biting my lip. It has stopped me from making any noise, so I continue to do so.
"Impressive." Is his only comment as he gently strokes the area he pinched a moment ago, soothing away the pain and shock. Now that I know that he is not beyond doing such things my body is on alert, hyper-aware of where he is touching and of his body.}

Beyond everything this is a tale of an unconventional relationship that is told without titillation and captures so well the sense of danger and taboo. Not just real physical danger but the danger of exposure and subsequent humiliation (and possibly the loss of her job which is not just her livelihood but the basis of her feelings of self worth). Her fear that her own body is betraying her and that she is out of control adds to the sense of foreboding.

This is all conveyed so chillingly and deliciously. You would be foolish to miss out on a story this consummately written.

AnAnomolly says:

Bella Swan is content with her career and her new life in London but feels that there is still something missing. Will a chance encounter with sinister yet intriguing stranger hold the answer to what she truly desires?

I can’t rightly tell you how much I love, Love, LOVE the story that Lambie asked for me to guest rec on the Darkward Blog today. It delves into the darkest corners of the human psyche and will suck you in, chew you up & lick its lips greedily after it’s had its wicked way with you.

I have this thing, a penchant if you will, for an Edward who is controlling, domineering with a bit of possessiveness thrown in. Very rarely with that do you also get a Bella who is head-strong & forthwith. In This Buried Life by Emmanuel Nathan, you get that & so very, very much more. This story has incredible writing, beautifully narrated descriptives and a hell of a lot of ~Unf~.

Right from the start you’re taken on a ride to the clandestine (and maybe not-so-much-so) meeting of our fair Bella and Edward. The story is set in London, and if you know me, you know that I heart all things London (aside from the shiteous exchange rate.) Reading this, it’s like you’re on the tube with Bella experiencing Edward for the first time.

The lights come back on… and holy fuck… I am greeted by the most startling eyes I have ever seen. I never knew eyes could be this color. He stares right at me. Deliberately. It is all the more shocking given how everyone else always avoids eye contact. It's not an inquisitive stare. It's feral, full of want and desire, and something else I can only describe as hunger. It's, quite frankly, scary.

And believe you me; it is an experience to read. The chills started at the nape of my neck and spread quickly all over. The first chapter alone will call Time Out for a knicker change.

As it continues, you’re taken on Bella’s journey to the Museum each morning and given pieces of each day’s events which introduce you to external characters where the plot comes into focus. You learn who & what she’s up against, with bites throughout to nibble on, and provided a peek into one seriously hot & somewhat sinister Edward.

As she hears his voice for the first time, her mind & body are conflicted and she doesn’t know how to react.

"Don't ever make me wait again."

What? I stare back at him, incredulous. I open my mouth to ask him who the fuck he thinks he is.

"I mean it."

I close my mouth not saying a word.

He is disarming and sexy with a dash of frightening power.

"Tomorrow you are going to wear your wrap around dress again." It's a statement, not a question. The words startle me out of my haze.

"Aren't you?" Again, it's said more as a demand rather than a question, and I manage only one response.

"Yes."

It’s hard for her to reconcile the guilt, shame and fear along with the conjunction of nervous, consuming desire for him.

As the story stands now, there are only six chapters, but each one packs a punch. Chapter seven is in the works and a teaser has been posted on the Twilighted Forum. It’s hard for me to write this and not want to give too much away, but I’m positive you won’t be disappointed.

Go forth & read. Trust me on this one, I don’t rec fic lightly.

This Buried Life on FF.net
This Buried Life forum on Twilighted.

Darksper Special

2010-09-05T03:31:00.000-07:00

DARKSPER SPECIAL, brought to you by the wonderful MaleficentKnits.

As most of MaleficentKnits’ fellow fanfic reading friends know about her, she is a lover of all things Jasper… well Jasper and Alice… but as much as she loves her favorite cannon couple, she loves to watch the other Cullens, and Bella in particular, suffer even more… If its angstperv, Mal is all over it feasting on their pain and anguish. Give her a miserable, someone is going to pay for their sins and the sins of others even if it means they have to die after watching everyone else suffer, she is all over it…

One would think that, with Jasper having this amazing ability to feel, as well as, manipulate the emotions of others, more tales would be told in the fanfic world. Usually he is a minor character unless he’s involved in a slash story with Edward or the latest craze, *shudder* in a relationship with Bella *ick* which really does nothing for Mal…

Once in a blue moon though, something comes along that makes Mal’s black heart leap for joy: Darksper…a cruel creature that makes others suffer in a lovely twisted way… Usually he’s a vampire but occasionally he’s human and these rare gems shine like blood red rubies illuminating Mal’s dark soul.

Unfortunately this past year, with university taking over Mal’s life, she didn’t have a lot of time to really search for really well written A&J stories, let alone Darksper. Luckily there were a couple contests that allowed for a few one-shots to leap into her arms… the following are a few that made Mal giggle or swoon in a lovely twisted way…

Anguish by kirmit
Kirmit, half of Team Alsper, usually writes A&J with a definite HEA that Mal admits to loving… *hey! everyone has their guilty pleasures!* Here, kirmit took a leap into a bleak void that she never thought she would face and entered the Black Balloon Contest. With a bit of encouragement *okay pushing!* from Mal, kirmit found her dark side and gave us a human Darksper who desires nothing but vengeance for the wrongful death of his one true love.

Her Own Particular Shade of Ebony by theladyingrey42
The ladyingrey amazed Mal with this little gem that she entered into the Les Femmes Noire contest… Her Darksper is a vampire that has a talent that allows him to “pull back the veil of the world and taste emotions like colors” leaving him to feel painfully alone in this world. Then he meets his Alice, and she is nothing like he ever expected… who is really the darker creature: the vampire or the human? theladyingrey is truly an artist that paints a brilliant, yet dark picture, that Mal would love to hang over her mantle piece…

The Musings of a Deranged Mind by EmraePenne
Here is a little gem that was the Judges Pick for the Death by Darksper Contest… this is a peek into Darksper’s cruel mind… the true insanity of Darksper here gave Mal the giggle fits… truly brilliant in its madness.

Fighter by Chicklette
This is a one-shot Darksper and one has to always wonder how it is possible for Darksper to maintain the *vegetarian* lifestyle of the Cullens... Let’s get real; sometimes love just isn't enough and one has to admit to what they really are... if it is true love then one must accept the faults of those they love.

There are also a few stories in Mal’s favourites list that, even though Jasper is a killer, he manipulates his victims in such a way that death doesn’t have to be terrifying… it can be so pleasant that one would love to die in his beautiful hands….

A Southern Moon by duskwatcher2153
This was an entry for the "In the Dark" Contest taking place just after the Civil War. Not so much a Darksper as he uses his abilities to make death as pleasant an experience one would just beg for…

Requiem by Twila Reaux
Mal just had to rec this little gem because she has always wondered what goes through the mind of a vampire’s victim… it could be sheer terror, sexual release, or reliving one’s life as it flashes before their eyes… this itself could bring joy or sadness…

So my pets… Mal hopes that you take the time to look at these little beauties that you might normally pass over… Darkward might be exciting to you but admit it… you all would love for someone like Darksper to manipulate your emotions and make you feel things you never felt before while he bleeds you dry…

Taboos and Delving into the Dark.

2010-08-28T06:38:00.000-07:00

Dark can have many meanings to different people, and trust us, we could rage on forever about how dark doesn't have to mean rape, abuse and torture. However, we wanted to delve into and aspect of dark that most people won't:

TABOO'S.

There's a contest running at the moment all about the subject, so thought now was the perfect time.

BEYOND THE PALE CONTEST.

It's being run by the awesome yellowglue, who always likes to push the envelope when writing.

When asked the question “What’s taboo, to you?” – Answers tend to be pretty much the same, and easy to guess at, across the board.

To be expected: murder, rape, incest, pedophilia, bestiality, necrophilia, etc.

But that’s too black and white, too easy, too boring (yeah, I said it) for me.

For me, taboo exists in the grey, the difficult, and the definitely anti-boring. It’s the completely and utterly UNexpected. It’s the epitome of everything outside of carefully constructed comfort zones and social norms. It’s the things that when you read/see/hear them, you have an outloud response because what you’ve just read/seen/heard has fucking floored you. For better, or for worse.

There’s really not a simple or succinct answer, because depending on whom you ask, and when/where you are, that answer will change because what’s comfortable and acceptable from one time and place to another, changes. Just because we see threesomes, anal, dom/sub play, and bloodbloodblood, all across this fandom doesn’t mean those things aren’t still taboo in lots of places, for lots of people. It’s timing and placement that makes all the difference. And it’s scrupulousness and style that keeps decides the difference between taboo and just plain shocking, perfidious, and grotesque.

How many years ago would it have been not just taboo, but basically unacceptable for a woman to show her ankles? For a man and a woman to just sit on the same bed, side by side on television? Lucy and Ricky slept in separate ones, and CBS wouldn’t even allow the show to use the word “pregnant”, even though at one point she and her character were. Just decades later though, Will and Grace were allowed to talk open and honestly about the pros and cons to a threesome she’s having reservations about.

Because time and place is (almost) everything.

With the Beyond the Pale contest, I wanted authors not just to include taboo habits/happenings/hankerings in their stories, but to explore the different causes and/or effects of them as well. I feel like anyone can write a story where Carlisle is a racist psychokiller, or where Alice is a nymphomaniacal cutter – because stuff like this isn’t half as shocking or taboo as it used to be. It’s in our books/music/movies, as well as our headlines. What’s more interesting, and often more controversial is to look at WHY Carlisle is like that, or what happens to Alice’s relationships with her friends and family as her habits begin take their toll. Blood/sex/violence isn’t necessarily taboo – but exploring it, thinking too much about it, sometimes is.

What I think is one of the most interesting options, and am surprised (and wanting!) that no one has tackled yet, is a story not set in the here and now. Writing something that’s set in a more conservative era opens up so many interesting options. Sex isn’t taboo anymore, but sex between two secretaries in a 1930’s office is. Addiction of almost any kind is far from taboo at this point, but that wasn’t the case just 50-60 years ago. Adultery, while still somewhat taboo, doesn’t typically end in with the loss of a nose, testicles, or life, but depending on when and where you are, the consequences vary into what some might consider extreme.

Old Scandinavian laws would have permitted Edward to castrate Jacob and kill Bella, had she broken her vows once they were married. The code of Moses would have had the two trespassers stoned to death. And in ancient Greece, the guilty pair might have been dragged behind horses or starved. Punishments like these are what have become taboo to us now, but then and there it was the crime that was so profane, not the ramifications that followed.

There’s a lot of the “same-old, same-old”, not just in this fandom, but all around us. Imagination and a little bit of thoughtful pushing is what I appreciate most. Shocking just to shock is just as prosaic as something that’s not shocking at all. But a tactfully written twist, a meticulous maleficence is (I think) more rewarding to read as well as write, and what’s most memorable.

We're also asked two of the entrants to comment on WHY they would such a contest.

22Blue has entered Red.

What drew me to the contest??? Well, originally, I had an idea about Bella as a high-class call girl, and Edward as her, ahem, client, and went searching for a contest that it might go with. Literally, two days later, I saw a tweet about Beyond the Pale and checked out the picture prompts. The ninth picture was perfect – it’s the black and white photo showing part of the back of a nude woman and a man holding her wrists behind her back. That photo gave me all kinds of ideas, and to be totally honest, I really wanted to try something different. To answer the original question of what drew me to the contest – it was the challenge of not going past the very thin line of taboo. I think everyone has their own definition of what crosses that line and what doesn’t - there are certain ‘taboo’ subjects I won’t touch with a ten foot pole.

What I like best about this contest is there are SO many different directions an author could go by choosing one or more of the twenty pictures prompts given. There are specific limits, yes, but this contest really does let your imagination run wild. If I had written my one shot the way I’d originally intended, it would have come out entirely different. I’m much happier with the end result thanks to the challenge Beyond the Pale provided.

nitareality has entered This Woman's Work.

The moment I heard about the Beyond the Pale contest, I knew I wanted to write for it. I love to explore taboos, in my personal life, in what I read, and in what I write. To be given the green light to go ahead and push that envelope was very freeing, and my mind ran in a million different directions. I was writing before I saw the prompts. Then I saw the prompts and dropped everything.

I share Yellowglue’s love of pictures, and using them as inspiration for writing. What was picked for this contest was such a rainbow of temptations and taboos. Within days, I had drabbles for each picture, and it was just a matter of picking. Each picture is inspiring in it’s own right, but one picture in particular spoke to me. Being free to explore topics that are edgy but important to me, like mental illness, led to a cathartic writing experience and I’m so glad I took part. I’m pleased as punch that there isn’t an entry limit, because now that I’ve started I don’t want to stop!

I encourage you to take a look; get involved in this contest. Show us the deep depths of your depravity, your secrets.

The closing date isn't until 11th September, so why not give it a go?

Snap by Ruby Wednesday

2010-08-19T08:21:00.000-07:00

Snap decisions have devastating consequences. Edward makes a different choice on Bella's first day of school and learns the hard way that two wrongs can never make a right. A two-part dark AU

Donna_rai says:

This is a two chapters fic and to start with I didn’t think I would like, I didn’t think two chapters was enough to tell a proper story, but after reading I was proven wrong!!
This is based on what would have happened if Edward’s bloodlust got the best of him on Bella’s first day at Forks High school.

“Bella Swan stood with her back pressed to the wall beside the door, a piece of paper clutched in her hand. Her eyes were even wider than usual as she took in my ferocious, inhuman glare.
The smell of her blood saturated every particle of air in the tiny, hot room. My throat burst into flames.
The monster glared back at me from the mirror of her eyes, a mask of evil.”

I am always intrigued by Authors that are willing to take there fic to a darker side, this is what I consider a more realistic approach at Edward's nature.
Raw, compelling, haunting and refreshingly different - there's something about the alternate nature of this one that sticks with me.
I wish I could be a little bit more coherent in my review, but I'm just overwhelmed and awed with this story. It was an experience in itself. Ruby Wednesday brought out the best and the worst in Edward and did his character complete justice.

“But I saw too much with my heightened senses and witnessed him sob with his head on the steering wheel until a bell rang and he drove away.
That parking spot became the location for a new tragedy and gave the good people of Forks a new loss to rubberneck at.”

Lambcullen says:

I’ll be honest and say I have no idea where to start with this one. I read it three times - one after the other, when I initially found it, not because it was difficult to understand, or because it confused me.
I read it three times because I adored it.
It starts on that very first day at Forks High; the day Edward scented Bella for the very first time.

“The monster raged in my head but I was willing myself not to reach out and grab her as she walked by. This human was surprising indeed, not that it would matter for too much longer.”

It’s Midnight Sun before it was ever leaked. It shows Edward’s thirst for what it really was, and the description have you salivating right along with him.

“Her blood was seeping through the fabric of her jeans. I had fantasized about it all afternoon. Now that it was flowing freely the scent was even more mouth-watering than I had imagined. It was like water to parched man, a drug to an addict, the finest brandy to an alcoholic. I no longer had a choice in the matter. I had to have it now.”

Ruby Wednesday had me hooked within the first five hundred words, and I was enthralled until the very last sentence. Donna is right when she says it’s raw, because after it’s over you’re left stunned. I’m not even going to into the ending, because I’d hate to ruin it.
I know two chapters is short, but there is really no need for more. It’s perfect as it is.

“I sank my teeth into her flesh.
The taste of her blood was even better than I envisaged. Better than I could have dreamed.
Filled my mouth and coated my throat as thick as honey
It was ambrosia from the gods.
An oasis in the desert.”

I found myself thinking of the end for hours afterward.
It stays with you...just like all good stories should. I think every single fan of Darkward should devour this, because it ticks every single box....and more.

Snap! on FF.net

Tangerine Dream by YellowGlue

2010-08-14T08:10:00.000-07:00

AngryBadgerGirl says:

There are so many ‘taboo’ fanfiction stories out there, more than one can count. They range in premise from sexual slavery, BDSM, ‘Darkward’ vampire, to everything in between. To be perfectly honest, I don’t read a whole heck of a lot of them. Truth be told, I prefer stories that are relatively low on the angst scale, so that would preclude most, if not all, of these fics from my reading list.

I have a handful of exceptions to this rule, and one perfect example is Tangerine Dream by YellowGlue. If you want to judge this one-shot purely for its shock value, I will be bold enough to say that you’re grossly underestimating its worth as a quality piece of writing. There is so much more to it than that.

My first reason for considering it to be so good is that the writing is superb. Indulge me for a moment and look objectively at how the story is written, regardless of its content. (I’ll get back to that later.) There’s an amazing tone and ‘cadence’ to the narration, for one. Yellow’s words are almost poetic, rich with metaphor, simile, and imagery.
The eroticism just jumps off the page—it’s written with intensity and incredible emotion. There’s no ‘smut’ here, if that’s what you’re thinking. Calling it just ‘smut’ is an unfair dismissal of the profound passion and energy that flows throughout Edward’s mind during the entire story. Here’s an example:
I kiss her hot skin and I taste all that vanilla mandarin sweetness I remember from all those years. I lick her and lap her sweet-dream-creamsicle innocence onto my tongue. I tease her and feel her tense and writhe under me, hear her cry out in sugary joy, feel her cum for me. Once. Twice. Three times over.
Another device Yellow uses that I love is word repetition. Normally, writers are told to avoid it, but she uses it to add a sort of rhythm that’s almost like poetic meter. I did a search within the story for the word ‘all’ and it appears 150 times within its total 7.5K word-length. Edward describes Bella, over and over, using the same syntax and structure, but it’s not jarring and doesn’t distract the reader at all. In fact, it just pulls you into his head even further. Here are snippets of what I mean:
All consuming...all sweet and soft…all vanilla sugar and mandarin blossom…all dream-creamsicle sweetness…all innocence and lullabies and building blocks and bedtime stories... all milk and honey like promised paradise…all ripped jeans and clean laundry…all white cotton and her little toes all painted periwinkle blue and my self control was raging.
As you read the ‘all’ descriptions piece by piece, you see them gradually shift from describing her as a child and a representation of innocence, to ultimately, an object of desire and the complete catalyst that causes his lose of self-control.
This component of the story is the perfect segue to the ‘taboo’ aspect of the premise. Edward is practically driven insane from the conflict he feels. His bloodlust draws him to Bella when she was nothing more than a toddler. I’ll be bold enough to say right now that if Edward and Bella had met when she was that young in canon, he would have felt the same exact reaction to her blood. She is his singer, after all. Canon Edward would have surely felt as if he were every last bit of strength not to drain her, just as he did in the original saga when they first met.
But the notion of their meeting when she is much younger forces us to look more closely at the idea of bloodlust versus actual lust. At some point in canon, Edward’s bloodlust ebbs when his romantic feelings for Bella begin to emerge. But I don’t think SMeyer did an entirely thorough job of delving into the ‘why’ and ‘how’. She brought Edward and Bella together in a very idealized and romantic way, a la two star-crossed lovers like Romeo and Juliet, or Elizabeth and Mr. Darcy. Something just ‘pulls them’ together.
Tangerine Dream looks at that transition from hunger to love with a heck of a lot more detail. Edward spends years fighting the urge to drink from Bella, while at the same time, involving himself in her life in some subtle, peripheral way in order to watch and protect her. It’s the ultimate practice in tortured restraint. But I think the years of standing back and watching do a few things to him: namely, his willpower and resistance to harming her grows substantially.
Through that willpower, his instinct to protect her grows and he begins to realize that he could only care this much if he loved her. His protectiveness goes well beyond her physical wellbeing. He becomes upset and almost agitated when she’s emotionally hurt as well. Her feelings of inadequacy and loneliness genuinely affect him, and he wants to take that hurt away too.
In the end, they both profess their profound feelings for one another. Bella is not as innocent as Edward imagines her, not by any means. (Raise your hand if you think she left her mitten in his car on purpose.) She knew Edward was watching her and felt comfort from it.
So rather than looking at this strictly by the age difference, by when and how they met, and judging the story simply on those points merely misses the picture entirely. Yes, the taboo is there, but I think Yellow does an extraordinary job of using it as a vehicle to examine other elements from canon and weave them together in a way that’s beautifully written and extremely compelling.

EunHye says:

My review of Tangerine Dreams. I'm one of the many, right? So I'll keep it short. :)

Tangerine Dreams, a fliffity, fluffity citrusy one shot, sounds like a twisty, lemony Dr. Seuss rhyme. And in some parts, it is. The words are rythmic, even upbeat, but they didn't distract me from the topic, which is the unconventional relationship between a human and a really old (but supersexy) vampire. It started with the girl as an infant, progresses through the years, culminating into a sexual act that is agreed by mutual consent but not between adults.

Sex between an older man and a girl under the age of consent is always suspect, as society dictates that minors should not have sex with adults. I don't mind it in fics, as long as it's written with skill and restraint. Tangerine Dreams, luckily, exceeds in both. There is nothing amateurish or clumsy in the way Sarah writes. Her words are smooth, like Edward himself, and tight, like the way he feels. She draws you in and takes you for a rollercoaster ride of Edward's emotions as he dances around temptation, torturing himself, before he accepts, calmly, that the only way to end his suffering is to give in to his obsession. She takes you round the bend as Edward manipulates Bella by initiating close contact, giving her the attention and gentleness that she needs and the moment she reciprocates his affection, he succumbs to his wants. It's wrong, and yet, Sarah's words made me cheer for them.

But then, Tangerine is not only about the sex, although everything did seem to lead up to it. It's about Edward fighting his nature. He's a vampire, and he doesn't operate within the bounds of what is socially acceptable (like drinking blood or not dying can ever be socially acceptable) but he aspires to these conventions...up until he doesn't. Which makes him, ironically, very human.

An aside, age of consent in the Philippines (my country) is 12, as long as the other person is not more than 10 years his or her senior. Which goes to show that even established communities differ in the perception of what's taboo and what's not. If humans can't decide what is what among themselves, how much so for vampires?

Maylin says:

This week saw the beginning of the Beyond the Pale competition, which challenges writers to take a fresh look at taboo themes. It is no coincidence, therefore, that we have chosen to review Tangerine Dream this month.
This one-shot was originally an entrant in a contest which had as a requirement that any relationship should be illegal. Tangerine Dream has been removed from Fanfiction.net twice after some rather esoteric complaints and has received some very vitriolic flaming as well as effusive praise. It is now only available to read on the author’s blog.
For me the attraction of reading stories about taboo themes is not for the shock value or the titillation of something ‘naughty’ but from a genuine belief that there are few absolutes in morality (maybe none at all). Rather there are vast grey areas where given a particular set of circumstances nothing is intrinsically ‘bad’. I happen to know that grey is Yellowglue’s favorite color.
I want to read something so well written and thought provoking that it turns my assumptions and prejudices on their head. Tangerine Dream is one of those stories.
Ostensibly this is a story of Edward as a vampire posing as a 31 year old human. He first encounters Bella at the age of 2 years and is immediately obsessed with her. He watches as she grows up waiting for her to attain womanhood, until he can wait no longer. Although Bella’s age is never mentioned she is undoubtedly a minor.
This could be viewed as pedophilia. However age of consent is a fluid area even in law. It varies considerably in different cultures with the US probably having one of the highest (18 years in some States). Even then the Law is not necessarily protecting those that need to be protected or allowing freedom to those who are mature enough not to be exploited. Youth does not necessarily make one vulnerable, nor age a predator.
We do however have a duty to protect the vulnerable and in this story Bella is undoubtedly vulnerable. Not only because of her age but also through appalling parenting.
Is Edward a predator though? This question hangs there throughout the story and is what adds that edge of darkness that transforms this into something you really engage with rather than consume.
“Her crimson called out to me; a siren, it sang my name in her tiny baby voice, begged me, confessed she was mine all mine for the taking.”
In the beginning his focus is her blood. He desires her blood. Her age is immaterial – too young – too old it makes no difference; unlike a pedophile whose focus would be her youth and vulnerability.
Although his bloodlust gradually grows into so much more he is still determined to wait. Although he is not human he still feels constrained by societal taboos and needs to continually justify his behavior to himself.
“Waiting when you don’t know exactly what it is you’re waiting for, only that you must wait, is always impatient waiting.”
At is “It felt too odd, I felt too rotten in trying to justify that much. She’s a child, years later yes, but still just a baby, and I a grown man. If I was waiting, I decided I would wait as long as it took for her to grow into a woman; when I could at least be seen with her and not raise eyebrows.”
His resolve is stretched, though, as he hears her blood quite literally singing to him the more contact he has with her.
“My mind racing with all the hundreds of ways I knew I could get her alone and bleed her dry and calm all of the universe with just one drink.”
Ultimately it is she who makes the first move. She has a loveless, uncertain life and through their intermittent encounters through her life sees him as someone she can rely on and feel safe with. His feelings are overwhelmingly protective and at every stage he asks her permission. “Is this OK” becomes a mantra.

“I smiled, my whole self soaring again. “Yes. If that’s okay?” I asked, yet again and determined to always ask her permission; wanting so much to please her, to keep her safe.”
In the end though what captivated me immediately was the writing style. Elegant and original, the narrative is lent poetic intensity by the repetition of key phrases and the rhythm of the wording. Her use of adjectives is so sensual you feel you can almost taste the words. This evocative, almost nostalgic style imbues the story with an innocence that contrasts with the subject matter.
If you want to read something beautiful yet ambiguous and thought provoking, there is no better place to start than with this under-appreciated gem.

Tangerine Dream is available on YellowGlue's Blog.

Lovegame by Moneybeet

2010-08-07T03:23:00.000-07:00

Summery:

Every night she goes about her business ignorant to the man who watches her from her window. She doesn't understand what is coming. She couldn't know the horrors he would subject her to in the name of fascination

Donnarai says:

"I have been waiting so long," he muttered near her wrist, "For so long, Bella."
"Waiting?" she wondered in a tone that betrayed how much he was effecting her.
"To make you what you always have been," he replied.
Edward tilted his head just enough for Bella to catch a glimpse of his expression.
Terror crept into her body, making it numb.
Words were caught in her throat as she tried to pull away from him.
"No, no, no, kitten," he taunted her. "If you try to escape, you will only make things worse for yourself."

Moneybeet is the author responsible for this fantastic story.
I found this Fic when I was in dire need of a pick me up from a lack of good Darkward!!
The writing is absolutely amazing; it grabs your attention right from the 1st chapter.
I am trying to figure out why this Edward fascinates me so much, he is very Dark, sinister, bloodthirsty and obsessed, the way he controls Bella like his own personal toy is very interesting, the details and descriptions that go into this is out of this world!
Bella is scared and confused when it comes to Edward, she has been dragged into a deadly game that she has no control over, she can’t go to her family or friends for fear that they will be killed so she has no choice but to play along.
Edward really seems to get off on torturing Bella, her blood and body is his whether she likes it or not and the more she tries to fight it the more twisted and dangerous he gets.
This is one story that I can quite happily read over and over again and never get bored!!
Moneybeet captures the essence of what a true Darkward fic should be like, she doesn’t hold back or shy away from scenes that are more violent and disturbed than others.
This story has the potential to get even darker and I am really looking forward to seeing what the author has up her sleeve when it comes to Edward and Bella.
Hope you all enjoy.....

"I want you to flee, little kitten," he hissed back. "I want to play and you will indulge me."
Bella felt her skin crawl in response to his words.
Rather suddenly, she was freed from his closeness.
She stood and tried to ignore the thick mud covering her jeans and arms. She found her knees still wavering slightly as he intensely stared her down. Bella didn't move.
At least she didn't start to leave until Edward crouched down into a predatory stance, his face twisted into that same devious smile. "Don't you have any self-preservation instincts at all?"
Bella stepped away from him, stumbling slightly over a tree root. Luckily enough she was able to catch herself before falling.
"Ah, there it is." He said calmly. "Run now, little Isabella."

O_oza says:

There’s one word that consistently comes to mind when I read Lovegame.

Nightmare.

Bella finds herself in a most unfortunate predicament the day she meets Edward. The scent of her blood and silent mind are enough to seal her fate as nothing more than his plaything. Edward is a master at controlling her, owning her, and he gets her to obey him by threatening the lives of others. Not that she really has a choice. He is playing a game, physically and mentally, and unlike other stories of similar nature, Bella is forced to go on with her everyday life pretending that everything is normal.

This story is written in 3rd person and moneybeet does a brilliant job of portraying the emotions of the characters. When Bella is afraid, I feel it in my gut. When Edward is tormenting her, I’m on the edge of my seat wanting more. Most of the time these emotions are happening simultaneously. She makes me want to cover my eyes and cheer at the same time.

Not only is Lovegame well written, but this Edward isn’t going soft anytime soon. At times he may come across as caring, but it’s quickly overshadowed by his underlying motives. I can’t wait to see what other twisted things he has up his sleeve!

"Still hurting, kitten?" he whispered in his velvet tenor.
She gave a slight nod, trying to ignore the little stabs of pain. If only she had remembered to bring the bottle of Tylenol sitting on the kitchen counter this morning…
"Good."

Lovegame by Moneybeet on FF

A SLASH IN THE DARK

2010-07-31T07:06:00.000-07:00

Slash - boy on boy, girl on girl...maybe even...wolf on vamp?

Whether you are a fan or not, twislash is a small but growing corner of the Twilight fanfiction world. There are many dedicated readers out there who would rather read about Edward being with Jasper, than Edward and...what was her name again?

Here at A Slash in the Dark we're looking forward to highlighting some of the best of vampslash - deliciously dark with a difference.

Betrayal by stitchcat

I’m a big fan of short one-shots. Betrayal is not lengthy, compared to most, at under 2000 words, but in those few words we get the story of one of the most fascinating (IMO) minor characters of the saga. When I read Breaking Dawn, Alistair was one of the few characters I really, truly wanted to know more about, and yet he was so private and enigmatic that we learned almost nothing.

Carlisle. A contradiction I still cannot fathom. He was a God, he was a doctor, he was a vampire and he loved humans. How could this be? I felt nothing but contempt for the cattle that surrounded me, even as they amused me, and I could barely stand to be in the same room as a female; yet here was Carlisle, my compassionate, loving, utterly unattainable man.

Le Sigh. Unrequited slashy love. But it gets better...

I began by accosting a whore and simply slitting her throat with a knife, just to see what the response would be. There was nothing to cause me any disquiet so I continued. Things became more complicated as the Police attempted to catch "the fiend of Whitechapel". I had to give up my plans halfway through several more times until I found my perfect specimen. She had her own room and I was able to dissect her as I wished. Eviscerate – what a wonderful word, it rolls off the tongue, it is almost onomatopoeic. I lost myself in gore, in the feel of flesh parting, of intestines running through my fingers, of removing the parts that make children and examining them closely. It still wasn't enough.

Delicious, no? Now this is a great slash-lite fic. There's no slashy action to speak of (though there is sexual reference), but it is definitely a slash fic. But it's canon as well, because this fic changes absolutely nothing in the source material. The beauty of writing these very minor characters is that there are so many missing moments to work with, and so much undefined personal history to explore. Stitchcat has managed to cleverly work Alistair into the central figure of one of the darkest and most sinister mysteries in modern history. Alistair is Jack, it is very believable, very plausible, down to his reasons for doing what Jack did so well.

Betrayal was Stitchcat’s first twific. First fanfic. The research (or prior knowledge) of the Ripper history is admirable, at least by one who has maybe just the teensiest Ripper obsession (that would be me). Now what I can't understand is why this fic has only 6 reviews. Read it and leave Stitchcat some love! She tells me she's planning to extend it. I'm looking forward to more of Alistair's history, and also more slash!

Underneath BY Newssodark

Jacob and Edward. I will be honest and say that is a pairing I avoided for the longest time when I began to venture into reading slash fics.

Newssodark writes Jacob and Edward in such an intriguing and interesting way that despite my initial apprehensions, I found myself captivated from the very first paragraph.

It's the intoxicating scent of blood and wolf that brings Edward out of the book that he's reading, and that pulls his attention away from the thrall of Bella's deep, even breathing where she sleeps in her bed next to him.

Though this is set in an alternative post-New Moon universe, there are times when I find myself forgetting what is canon, swept along on a feeling that this is the real story. Somehow, the idea that Jacob and Edward could be something more than mortal enemies has never felt so right.

It's not an easy journey for either of them. The wolf/vampire relationship, of course, sets the story up for some awfully painful angst, but it is the horrific, terrifying turn of events that forces Jacob and Edward together that gives this story its dark edge.

He knows. He knows. He remembers. He knows.

He screams.

It tears from his throat like a living thing, razorblades tearing at his insides, his voice wrecked and shattered. He screams until it feels like he's bleeding with it, like his chest is broken open, torn into.

He screams, and he screams, and he screams.

People are there now, arriving and circling around him, and so is leech, Edward. He doesn't care. He ignores them, can't think about them, can't think about anything. Even Bella, who smells so good, who walks to him and drops down next to him once his voice has choked off and he has nothing left, nothing left. He's trembling, his grief unbearable, his mind cracking, his heart broken. He threads the fingers of both hands through his hair and tugs hard, rocking back and forth on his knees.

Bella is still there, touching him, her small hands on his arm and his back. "Jacob," she's saying, teary, "Jacob, oh god, Jake, I'm sorry. I'm so sorry!"

"Not real," Jacob mutters to himself, still rocking, "Not real, not real. Please, please, not real, please!"

Spots dance in front of his eyes, and his body aches so intensely it makes him dizzy. He blinks slowly, over and over again. He looks up, sees Bella's face, her beautiful, teary face. He closes his eyes again and see's his dad, on the floor of their living room, bloody and dead. The pain in his head explodes, and darkness rushes up to meet him.

Inside, he's still screaming.

As you can see, the story is written in third person, present tense. It isn't often you see this style in fanfic, but it's perfect for this story, giving it a dark and moody atmosphere that allows us to see so much more than just what the main protagonists are thinking. While the focus is undoubtedly on Edward and Jacob, the story unfolds slowly with perspectives from the supporting characters; we get the benefit of Alice's gift, we feel what Jasper feels, we empathize with Carlisle and Esme's concern for Jacob's situation. It's the whole story; we see everything:

He looks away, and she watches him carefully, following his gaze to the back corner of the room where Edward is standing set apart from everyone else. Most of the tension leaves Jacob's body suddenly. Rosalie doesn't know if Edward's said something to him through their bond, or if all it takes is a look from his mate to calm Jacob down. He probably doesn't even realize it. It makes Rosalie's heart ache. She doesn't want to lose them. Either of them.

Underneath is angsty and dark, but it's an emotional pull; there are no cliched cruel or sadistic characterizations here. The pain though, is palpable and the haunting undertones linger long after you've finished reading. It is quite simply, some of the most exquisitely heartclenching, gutwrenching writing that I've had the pleasure to read.

This story is not yet complete with thirteen chapters so far. It hasn't updated for a few months but I remain hopeful that we will see more of this enchanting story sometime soon.

Wolfgirl and the Corset BY Darkira

"Yes...I would like to...hurt you..." I purred with equal heat. Suddenly, I realized I really wanted to both hurt her, because she was a wolf, and to please her, because she was a gorgeous girl and I hadn't touched a woman like that in years.

Yep, this is femmeslash. I’ve often said that I don’t ‘do’ femmeslash as a reader (certainly not a writer), but this isn’t strictly true. I don’t seek it out, but on occasion I will read a bit. It has to appeal in a way in which my favourite slash fics appeal, I think. Perhaps because femmeslash, in my limited experience, can tend to be a bit fluffy, and I’m not a huge fan of fluffy, it has to have a wee bit of darkness to pique my curiosity.

I first read Wolfgirl and the Corset when it was entered in the Les Femmes Noires one-shot contest, and it stuck in my mind when so many one-shots are so easily forgotten. Perhaps it’s the vamp/wolf pairing, always popular in my book for the simple fact that it lends itself perfectly to a sense of the forbidden or the distasteful. Because there is nothing better than the sex you shouldn’t be having.

Or perhaps it is the idea of Alice giving Leah a corset piercing.

Swiftly I laced her back, criss-crossing the ribbon from across her back from ring to ring and when I had them all, I tied the silk to a bow, the rest of the silk caressing the skin on her butt when she moved a bit, I exhaled at the sight. Then I tugged at the bow, making her moan while I remembered the other part of this.

Pain... yes, check. Pleasure? She needed more.

We see a side of Alice here that we rarely see, but I certainly won’t say that it’s OOC. It’s feasible that anyone, whether human or vampire or wolf, has something of a darker and more complex side to their character. And Leah shows a vulnerability beneath her hard exterior that is entirely canon.

For an edgy femmeslash fic with a differently dark tone, then don't look any further than Wolfgirl and the Corset.

Write your own dark slash fic!
After many hours spent extensively researching this subject, we've come to one simple conclusion. There simply isn't enough dark slash out there! We want more! Think you are up for the challenge?

Write a dark and vampy o/s for the Slash Backslash V2. contest.

Or the anonymous InTheCloset contest.

Like to push the envelope? The Beyond the Pale contest is the one for you!

If you have any dark/vampy slash recs for us, we'd love to hear them. Email us at deviantsotdark@gmail.com

A Slash in the Dark was brought to you by:

vampireisthenewblack and sweetp-1.
We like to read and write slashy twific. We're two kiwi girls who should know better.

Toye by Bratty-Vamp

2010-07-23T06:53:00.001-07:00

TOYE by BRATTY-VAMP

Donna_rai says:

After the Author’s description I couldn’t help but be intrigued “Vampires like to play with their food. A campy and kitschy horror short-story that lets the men of the Cullen household be the monsters that Edward always claimed they were.”
For me this Fic is like a goldmine, you come across it by chance and don’t realise how good it is until you finish. It makes crawling through Fan Fiction on the hunt for a good Darkward worth it.
This shows the Cullen boys in a very different light, they are Evil, Horrific and Disturbed, frankly they scare the bejeebus out of me!! Most of the story leads you into a false sense of security especially with Edward. He really knows how to get inside your head and by the end you're left thinking......“Bella why were you so stupid!!”
It’s so vivid and realistic in its details, that I was biting my nails the entire time with anticipation for the next chapter. Even the small detail of Bella's physiological response to everything that happens makes it seem that much more real, and that’s what I really like about this Author. A lot of writers tend to gloss over the unattractive details but she went there, and I think she was really brave to do so.
"Please… don't hurt her," I choked quietly. Tears obstructed my vision and I begged for his mercy."That is going to be up to you," Emmett spoke again. I blinked to clear my vision and saw that he had walked around Rosalie to step near where I held myself at the front of the cage.
"What… what do you want from me?" I asked hoarsely. I would do anything at all to make this nightmare end.
"Keep your hands on these bars," Emmett instructed. My fingers automatically tightened around the steel. I clutched the bars so tightly that my fists ached. "And whatever you do… don't close your eyes."
"Wh-wh-what?" I stammered. I didn't understand his rule. He smirked a little and stepped back toward Rosalie.

It’s certainly a very good interpretation of what years of walking the earth can do to a Vampire...
The entire first read-through, I kept chanting Yes. Yes. Yes. My smile grew progressively wider as the vampires became progressively more sadistic.
I have to say I love the fact that you get a glimpse of Rosalie reading Dirty FanFic at the beginning of the story.
Enjoy...

“The familiar flannel coat my father always favored was easy to pick out at the head of the group. He raised his arm to point at the shack ahead of them. They were too far away for me to hear their voices. But my fingers stretched out and my hands were rigid claws as I tried to touch the glass between us. Edward held my hair, keeping me at just such a distance that window remained centimetres out of reach”

Lambcullen says:

There's nothing that gets me more excited than a really good Darkward, and this is one of the best.

It's complete, only seven chapters long and will blow your mind.

I knew this was different from the first chapter, and the more I read the more I thirsted for more. The Cullen's aren't your usual brand and I love Bratty-Vamp for that!

"What… what if they aren't nice people?" I asked.

We meet Emmett first, and it's immediately apparent that he isn't the cuddly teddy bear, nor is Jasper. However, Edward seems to be different from them.

"Edward is another of my sons," Carlisle explained. "You could say… he's second in command around here. And he's denied himself for far too long."

It's more than half way through before we actually meet Edward, but when I did I got an immediate sense of foreboding. Is he all he seems? Or it is an elaborate game of cat and mouse?

"It's an apple," came a soft voice from behind. "I didn't mean for it to scare you. Please… eat."

I don't want to give too much away, because this fic really is a "must read". Certain lines still give me chills, and I have read it again on a few occasions. It remains one of my favorite Darkwards, because Bratty-Vamp gets him spot on....and then adds a little more venom.

Enjoy.

Toye on FF.net

Diary of a Dead Man

2010-07-17T10:49:00.000-07:00

Are you ready for another One Shot Rec from the Darkside?

This month we are spotlighting the clever, evocative story that won the Judge's Pick in the Darkward Vampfic Contest.

Diary of a Dead Man by ineedyoursway

What dihenydd says:-

Like many exceptional stories ‘Diary of a Dead Man’ has not had the readership it deserves. It does not end happily, Edward is not redeemed, there is no fluff. Therein, I suspect, lies the problem.

Probably more than any story I have read this one conveys as much, if not more, through the writing style as it does through the narrative.

The story is told mainly through entries from the sparse journal of Edward Cullen. He allows Bella to read this diary as she faces death at the age of 83 years. From Edward’s point of view, and with his unique voice their story is told in a series of sporadic interactions, over a 70 year time period. In a succinct, stream of consciousness style, complete with bizarre inner ramblings, a life of repressed emotions and bad communication is revealed. The disjointed, stilted style says as much by what is unwritten as what is.

He first encounters Bella at the age of 8 years:-

“There is something innocent about watching young children play. Sometimes I want to drain them.

The girl, that damn girl, she tripped on a wayward rock and went sprawling onto the ground. She cut her knee open, that damn girl, damn that girl for cutting her knee open. She should be more careful, instead of sending her blood towards the crazy man (not a man, I am not a man) lurking in the fucking trees. Writing these phrases down on paper makes me giddy. The script 'f' of fuck is an elegant, ironic lead.”

On the surface he comes across as a callous, self absorbed killer – judgmental and arrogant. However he remembers all his victims:-

“That damn socialite Beatrice Beagle. Her bust overflowed from her dress, pushed up and up and constricted her breathing. I killed her that night. I left her in a tenement to rot. Damn those immigrants.”

You are left with the feeling of an empty life, with very little meaning.

He appears to treat Bella with a cruel indifference even after they begin an affair.

“She asked me my name while stepping into her nurse's garb. I sat against the edge of the bed, my feet resting on the hardwood floor. She asked me again because I didn't respond. I stared at her. She shut up.

I smiled politely when ushering her out the door.”

He never actually tells her his name or anything about himself. Although it is easy to think that Bella is allowing herself to be exploited, there are hints that she at least is aware that there is more to their relationship and is prepared to accept whatever he has to offer (most of the time)

“What if I love her?

This stupid girl.

She makes me stupid.

She asked me if I could love her. Just like that. She said, 'do you love me?' and I told her no. Of course I told her no. What else was I supposed to say? She just nodded, though. Not at all disappointed. It was like she expected me to fail her, that stupid girl. She's right. I failed her. I fucked her anyways.”

Ultimately you are left with a feeling of lost opportunities, but also inevitability. Although he has watched her grow older he never actually expected her to die. Although he appeared to treat Bella badly he never actually tasted her blood. Although he professes to feel nothing for her the importance of her in his life is apparent in his choice of what he deemed worthy of chronicling. His tone is deprecating but that only serves to highlight his isolation and these few entries rattle around in a vast stretch of time and will echo in his empty life for the rest of eternity.

The writing is wonderfully unsentimental, nothing is superfluous and yet everything we need to know is conveyed – even if it isn’t written. There is a sense of completeness about it that leaves a sense of satisfaction rather than a craving for more. I urge you to read and review this, it will be a long time before you come across writing this exceptional and awe inspiring.

What theladyingrey42 says:-

I’ve always thought that the term “Darkward” was a tad misleading. Yes, he drinks human blood and lives a haunted, tormented existence. ::yawn:: Who doesn’t?

But then there are stories like Diary of a Dead Man that redefine the genre.

In this story, we get torment and blood and sex. Do we ever.

But we get more.

We get a human lifetime of loneliness and longing. We get a hard heart learning what it means to lust for one that beats. We get growth. Denial.

And ultimately, one of the more beautifully heart-breaking tales I’ve ever read.

For anyone who wants to be completely and utterly drawn into a world of poetry, wonder, beauty and pain, ineedyoursway’s work should be at the top of the list. That said, in my mind, to date, Diary of a Dead Man stands as her crowning achievement. It is not to be missed.

ABOUT OUR REVIEWERS

dihenydd betas for lambcullen and other wonderful writers and reads altogether too much Twific.

theladyingrey currently writes Love Amongst the Ruins and Our Lives Unbound. she also has numerous other stories and awardwinning one-shots under her belt, including an incredible 3 stories in the 5 Judges Choices of the Tattward and Inkella Contest.

Incubus Anomaly by Elusivetwilight

2010-07-06T22:26:00.000-07:00

Summary: Incubus: a sex demon that visits women in the deep dark of the night. Edward relies on his special gifts to consume his prey. What happens when he meets the one woman immune to his unique abilities?

IrishTwiSisters Says:

“She was an anomaly to me, a unique enigma, and as much as I tried, I could not break into her vaulted mind.”

I read a lot of fan-fiction. I am a firm believer in HEA (Happy Ever After) endings. I'm in no way an angst junkie. Or at least I wasn't until I was corrupted by Elusivekoolaid (Elusivetwilight). LambCullen also played her part in my conversion.

Not having read very many vamp-fics I was wary of starting one about an Incubus. Truly, having gone from one of Elusive's first offerings, The Rain Season, which I adored and had the pleasure to beta, to Incubus Anomaly is very much like a fire and ice scenario. I felt like Bella in Eclipse, torn between two passions. I wanted to stay in the All-Human world with some minor angst and HEA's but I was being pulled toward this dark vampire and his addiction to my blood...sorry, Bella's blood (excuse my fantasy).

“Her blood hummed and sang in her veins, like a perfect song, of which, I could only catch a couple of notes.”

Something about this Edward and this Bella has drawn me into their world. It has corrupted my innocent mind (pfft!!) in a most deviant and delicious way.

If you like your ‘Bellas’ weak and indecisive and needy then this Bella is not for you. From her chain-smoking, to her leather-clad motorbike riding self to her kick-boxing, this Bella is a bad-ass. Utterly hardcore! And, you will discover, she is this way for a reason. She has her own dark past that has made her become who she is today, but it’s not all dark in Bella’s world, so don’t worry.

Edward struggles with his need for Bella and her blood. This need goes against everything he has trained himself to be. But, much like the reader and this story, he can’t get enough.

“Fear was a strange bedfellow for me. Could I afford to lose the parts of myself I have developed over the last century? Could I allow light into places inside me I had allowed to grow dim? A modicum of human instinct and emotion existed somewhere within me. Could the caged beast exist alongside my dormant human self?”

The fiery passion between these two is written so well, I would recommend a purchase of new underwear before you read or better yet don’t wear ‘em at all. The heat emanates from the page and will make you sizzle.

Elusive is not afraid to challenge the reader in their concept of how a character should behave and certainly doesn’t pander to ‘how Stephenie would have done it’. Elusive does it better and Stephenie would be shocked to her Mormon core!

She is also not afraid to cross boundaries with her characters and you will be left open-mouthed in shock at certain twists and turns this amazing story takes you on.
Enjoy it, and as always, Be Safe

NitaReality Says:

"Oh God!"
"Trust me, he's watching."
With those four words, I was already hooked, already in lust with this cocky character, and I didn't even know who it was. Of course, we're not done yet.

"Deeper, please go deeper."
I watched as she bit her lip, while I thrust into her. I lifted her legs up higher and the movement caused me to slide further into her slick wet passage.”
You have my attention. I read on, captivated by the passionate scene, then later...

“...I quickly found her femoral artery. It was easy enough, I had done it a thousand times over to a thousand different women. Making a small incision, I lapped at the blood that gurgled from the wound. She sighed and gasped in her sleep while I fed.”
Oh I see.

After the prologue we are sucked into the unique, layered world that ElusiveTwilight created for our fair Bella to live in. Not your typical girl, she's a tough, motorcycle riding, smoking, leather pants wearing chick. She's so real. She is perfectly flawed, having her share of insecurities, vices and skeletons in her closet.

Edward is wonderfully dark; a sex demon who is slapped upside the head by Bella's scent, her silence, her beauty., He's just moved to a house on the opposite side of the street from Bella. We watch as, over time, he is pulled into Bella's orbit, despite actively fighting the light that she brings into his existence.

“Fear was a strange bedfellow for me. Could I afford to lose the parts of myself I have developed over the last century? Could I allow light into places inside me I had allowed to grow dim? A modicum of human instinct and emotion existed somewhere within me. Could the caged beast exist alongside my dormant human self?”

Throughout the story he struggles with these issues, these emotions. The author navigates the waters of Edward's inner turmoil without turning him into a simpering boy, or a fluffy flower bearing devotee of the House of Bella.

The supporting cast in this fic are deeper than you typically find. ElusiveTwilight manages to avoid cliches at every turn, giving us a likeable Jessica, a mysterious Marcus, and a Newton that I couldn't hate. The big surprise here is the Cullen family itself. She's has made them authentic too, dysfunctional rather than perfect. Bella has her own tangled web of family dynamics that's fully believable and relatable.

The entire story is riddled with delicious sexual tension, dark humor, angst and action. You see all sides of Edward, my favorite being the hunter. You see a brave Bella, so easy to root for. The sex is passionate and raw. The characters and setting are multi-faceted and very well written. You won't regret a minute spent with this fic.

Incubus Anomaly on FF.

Banners for the Winners!

2010-07-04T23:25:00.000-07:00

Where are the Deviants heading?

2010-07-03T07:56:00.000-07:00

There have been discussions via chat and email recently about what readers would like to see in Deviants of the Dark. Here are some of the things that have come up. Now let us have your input!

1. FREQUENCY - there was a general consensus that posting once a week was a good compromise. More frequently is hard to keep up with and less frequent allows interest to waver. Most importantly consistency is important. Long gaps between posting lose readership.

2. We are not the only blog devoted to Dark Twific so we wanted out own particular ‘angle’. There was a unanimous feeling that we should concentrate on the edgier, really Dark stories.

3. What do we mean by Dark? This is an ongoing discussion. It isn’t just about horrific deeds or angst, though it could include both. We all agreed good writing was paramount and using the plot for shock value can be counter productive. Maybe Darkness must be in the essential nature of the characters?

4. Are there enough good quality Dark fics around to warrant a regular blog? Possibly not, but we saw part of our essential role was to encourage the readership of good stories and to promote the writing of new Dark stories.

5. How can we encourage readership? We already review 2 multi chapter and 1 one-shot each month and have an ongoing calendar of articles planned. These include Vamp Slash, non E x B Dark Fics and Artwork and other creative outlets. Suggestions we have had for articles include a discussion and comparison of Vampire Mythologies, a discussion of taboo subjects, the role of reviews, and author interviews. We would love to hear your suggestions - especially if you are volunteering to write the article.

6. How can we encourage the writing of more Dark Fics? We are going to run a contest! It will be specifically aimed at promoting multichapter fics. We have yet to hash out the details but we have a name - Truly, Madly, Darkly - and an end date - Halloween. Follow the blog and our Twitter to keep updated.

This Blog is still in its infancy. We have a couple of amazing people working on the ‘look’ of it but the rest is up to all of us. This is your chance to shape this into something you would like to follow so let us know what you think!

Leave a comment or email us at deviantsofthedark@gmail.com

Obsession Contest Winners

2010-07-01T09:57:00.000-07:00

STOP PRESS - STOP PRESS - STOP PRESS

A special treat for the winners. The banners were always going to take a few days to come as the wonderful bettigefecht who designed the Contest banner is in Chicago having flown to the US for the Eclipse Premiere. However she has very generously offered to do personal banners for each story!

"You guys can tell all the winners that if there’s a tiny tiny delay with the winning banners, that is because I’m going to make individual banners for every story… yes, yes…. that’s a question of (artist-)honor, k? It means I have to reread the stories and get into the mood to work the magic. But they still will be done quick. Promise!!!"

You can read all 24 stories entered in the Obsession Contest C2.

THE OPEN VOTE

1st Place - Milk by TeamBella23

2nd Place - What Should Have Been by Twilightedheaded23

3rd Place - A Divine Test by afragilelittlehuman

JUDGES PICKS

1st Place - Milk by TeamBella23

2nd Place - Over The Waterfall by YellowGlue

Joint 3rd Place - Clytemnestra by Amelie Gray

Joint 3rd Place - Up Side Down by bettigefecht

Many congratulations to TeamBella23 for a unanimous win from both the public and the judges. It really captured the essence of Obsession in a well written and gripping story.

CHERRY POPPER AWARD (for most promising newcomer)

Fumbling Towards Ecstasy by obsessed cheela
A very strong story from someone new to writing who we hope to see much more from.

Welcome to The Vampies

2010-06-26T07:36:00.000-07:00

We would like to give our support to some new awards out. The Vampies are for vampires only - so ideally suited to all those dark fics we love so much. We have asked around and here are some we are delighted to recommend. Check out the categories listed here.

Nominations will run from Friday, June 11 through Sunday, June 27, 2010.

Go and Vote Now!

Title: THE MASQUE OF THE RED DEATH
Category:The Glass Slipper (Best HEA)
Author: JEESIECHREESIE

BEST ENDING EVER. I'd call that a HEA for the darkside ;) RECOMMENDED by Sweetp-1 and Lambcullen

Title: TOYE
Category: Bloody Brilliant (Best Overall) and I Like to Play With My Food (Best DarkVamp)
Author: BRATTY-VAMP
Suspense, gore, and one of the most memorable Darkwards ever. "Vampires like to play with their food" -RECOMMENDED by Sweetp-1 and Dihenydd

Title: JUST ONE MORE THING YOU WANT TO END
Category:The Glass Slipper (Best HEA) and I Can’t Believe It’s Not Sparkly (Best AU)
Author: HUMANSHIELD
This is how Twilight should have ended. Told from EPOV but using his unique ability to gain insight from Alice and Jasper, this is so much better than canon. RECOMMENDED by dihenydd

Title: PREY

Category: I Can’t Believe It’s Not Sparkly (Best AU)
Author: SUMMER35

A faultlessly realised alternate take on canon where Edward is a powerful member of the Volturi enforcers. Although still 'vegetarian' he meets his singer while she is still a child and sets in motion a chain of events that will ultimately restructure the world for vampires, shapeshifters and those humans in the know. This is a story about the powerful, though not always welcome bond between Edward and Bella and is also an intricate political thriller. RECOMMENDED by dihenydd

Title: HER OWN PARTICULAR SHADE OF EBONY
Category:Bloody Brilliant (Best Overall) and The Poisoned Apple (Best Angst)
Author: LADYINGREY42
Jasper's vampire senses and crimson eyes set him apart. His ability to pull back the veil of the world and taste emotions like colors makes him alone. Until he encounters a human girl whose darkness is the most intense shade of ebony he's ever known.

This dark and tormented story gave me chills through the entire reading. It's filled with angst, pain, and misery painted with a pallet of gloriously bruised colours. Alice wants release through death and wears her scars like bracelets to remind her of her failures. Darksper, an incubus of sorts, is an artist of emotions that feeds off of her suffering and the beauty it creates for him. This has one of the most sensuous non-lemons filled with blood, venom, and sexual lust that I have ever read. Against canon, Darksper gives in to his own selfishness and refuses to give Alice what she begs of him... until finally... that is for you, the reader, to discover... this is truly a painfully bleak and miserable tale, the kind that I truly love and adore that twists at your heart... RECOMMENDED by Maleficentknits

Title: CARPE NOCTEM & FIAT LUX
Category: I Can’t Believe It’s Not Sparkly (Best AU)
Author: QUEENOFGREY
Told partly in letters of excruciating beauty, this is a story of bloodlust so all consuming it resembles madness and how it is overcome by something even stronger. This is one of my favorite endings ever.

Title:THE DARKEST EVENING
Category:Just Like Stephenie Used to Make (Best Canon)
Author: C. ANNA CULLEN
"Before Bella, Edward's life was like a moonless night. This is the story of the demons that haunted him in the darkness."

Ever wondered what Edward got up to when he left Carlisle and Esme in his rebellious years? If so then this is the story for you. Edward fights against his natural instincts so he can live like Carlisle and Esme but situations arise that lead him to the dark side and he gives in to the monster within. Along the way he meets more monsters and his struggle to come to terms with what he is and what he has done to his 'family' provides angst galore. This darkward is utterly fantastic and the story is written better than canon. RECOMMENDED by IrishTwiFicster

Title: THE WORST OF WEATHER
Category: Fangbanged (Best Smut) and I Can’t Believe It’s Not Sparkly (Best AU)
Author: YELLOWGLUE

The initials are WoW ... and that's what this fic is! Yellowglue has a way of making this fic crawl under your skin until you're feeling every single thing the characters are. Her words are pure poetry which make this Darkward utterly delicious. RECOMMENDED by Lambcullen

Title: ROSE LIKE THUNDER
Category: Fangbanged (Best Smut)
Author: YELLOWGLUE
This is the EPOV version of The Worst of Weather, where we find that Snideward may not be quite as Bella sees him. He is however still detached and mean, his motivations are just clearer. This is someof the most erotic and passionate prose you are ever likely to read. It drags you into the mind of an obsessive trying to do what is right and often getting it wrong.

Title: SUB PLANS
Category:The Golden Onion (Best Comedy)
Author: SNOWWHITEHEART

Bella is a Domme with such stringent requirements for her Subs that they don't hang around long. Enter Edward aka 'Icefinger'. He chooses as their first scene a scenario where he plays a vampire who has been loveless for over a century. He is very thorough in his portrayal, right down to the pile of journals that describe his search for sexual fulfillment through the decades. So thorough that Bella cannot help but think he is delusional. This has moments of tenderness and eroticism as well as humor that balance flawlessly. RECOMMENDED by dihenydd

Title:UNDERNEATH
Category: The Rainbow Connection (Best Slash)
Author: NEWSODARK
When I was trying to think of a dark vamp-slash story Underneath immediately came to mind. This is a captivating story that manages to create a dark and moody atmosphere without resorting to sadistic or cruel characterizations. When something horrific happens to Jacob, a common enemy brings him closer to Edward, whether they like it or not. RECOMMENDED by Sweetp-1

Title: DARK POSSESSION
Category: Fangbanged (Best Smut) and Dead & Loving It (Best Human to Vampire Transition)
Author: LAMBCULLEN
An Edward true to his Vampire nature, arrogant and completely unrepentent. He has his own reasons for turning Bella but they have nothing to do with her wishes and everything to do with satisfying his needs - all of them. This is edgy and incredibly erotic. RECOMMENDED by dihenydd

Title: ULTIO
Category: I Like to Play With My Food (Best DarkVamp) and The Poisoned Apple (Best Angst)
Author: MAC214 and 22BLUE
Darkness comes in many forms and Ultio's Edward has them all (and then some). RECOMMENDED by Sweetp-1

I have to recci this. Every single person that likes dark should read it. Edward is sinister, unrelenting and adamant in his revenge. The guy gives me chills, and that's because he is so well written! RECOMMENDED BY Lambcullen

Title: BREAKING THE GIRL
Category:It’s So Wrong, It Has to Be Right (Best Non-Canon Pairing)
Author: SWILL122
http://www.fanfiction.net/s/5827824/1/Breaking_the_Girl
An intriguingly dark and edgy one-shot which features a Leah/Felix pairing. RECOMMENDED by Sweetp-1

Title: YOU KNOW WHAT YOU ARE
Category:The Glass Slipper (Best HEA)
Author: SHALU
Who is in control? Jasper thinks he has settled into his existence, but Alice brings an earthquake of doubt to crack his foundation.
The first time I read this story, I felt it went against canon; how can Darksper deny Alice anything? How can he push her away? Part of me was angry at that but then I realized, his struggling with himself and his natural desires, denying her, was canon. Darksper has kept her waiting. He cannot deny his love and desire for her and, even though it seems as if he saves her, in reality, Alice saves him from himself and shows him that he is worth loving. RECOMMENDED by Maleficentknits

Title: LOVE IN THE MIRROR ROOM
Category:It’s So Wrong, It Has to Be Right (Best Non-Canon Pairing)
Author: FORBIDDENKISSES

James ends up wanting to keep Bella for himself and whisks her away before the Cullens come to save her.

Title: BATHED IN THE MOON
Category: Bite me. No, really…bite me. (Character I’d Like to Bite Me)
Author: TRANQUILKALE
Waking up in the hotel, Bella stumbles across Jasper and Alice in the throes of passion. M for a reason sexual situations. Jasper/Alice is the pairing

When it comes to vampires, biting and feeding on blood goes hand in hand with sex and lust. Most of us always know in our hearts that Jasper will do anything for his Alice. I have always believed that their sexual relationship involves blood and Alice will do anything for her husband and lover. Here we have Bella spying on my favourite couple in that Phoenix hotel room ~ a seriously hot and intimate scene that would make you want to be bitten by Jasper as well. RECOMMENDED by Maleficentknits

Title: THE HUNTER
Category:I Like to Play With My Food (Best DarkVamp)
Author: KAYBEBABY

But it’s not really either Bella nor Edward! It is the vampire Almos posing as Robert Pattinson playing Edward Cullen in the movie adaptation of twilight opposite Kristen Stewart playing Bella. The story is finished and I love it. Very dark, very vampire lore. AND it doesn’t have a happy ending, although he does sort of redeem himself… sort of.

See I suck! But yeah, I’d definitely nominate her if you can make it fit in any category! RECOMMENDED by LeeCullen

You might also want to consider voting for:-

Ethan Church

Daedalus in Exile

Grasping Darkness

Innocence is Dripping Red
Ethan Church
The Revenger
Ithaca is Gorges
Dark Side of the Moon
Family Therapy Cullen Style

Killing Death by Echo

2010-06-18T05:36:00.000-07:00

Summary: Meet Edward; serial killer. At only seventeen years old, he has mastered the art taking human life. Enter Bella, inocent bystandar. When these two cross paths, not only will sparks fly, but so will the blood of their enemy.

Lambcullen says: This fic is like the pot of gold at the end of the rainbow....or should it be body at the end of a blood trail? Either way, its amazing. From the moment I read the summary I knew this was going to be perfect for a Deviants recci.

Meet Edward; serial killer.

Echo has a way of placing you right in the middle of a scene. Her words are very atmospheric, and before I knew it I'd devoured all the available chapters.

Water cascaded down the shower curtain in elegant spirals, sliding over the pristine white tiles to finally land on the desiccated corpse lying fully clothed and face down in the stream. Fog swirled around the room in a ghostly mist, fanning along the mirror to expel itself through the open door. Heat and moisture made the air thick, muggy, like it could no longer bare its own weight.

...and that's just the opening paragraph!

Now, don't misunderstand, this fic isn't just a series of random killings. It's not one dimensional. Echo had written it in a way so each and every character stands out. There is a very twisted, but thoroughly thought out plot, all revolving around Edward's past. As a reader, you'll be very intrigued by smattering of an "unknown POV". It gives you another view into what the hell is going one, but also manages to confuse you a little more. This is one of those fics that keeps you wondering long after you've finished the update.

I'm amazed more Dark Lovers haven't pounced on this little gem, because it needs so much more love. I really hope you'll give it a try and leave us a comment to tell us what you thought.

I guarantee its worth your time!

Donna Rai says: Have you ever come across a Fic that after reading you just can’t seem to stop thinking about? Well this is exactly what this Fic has done!!
The Author Echo does a fantastic job of capturing your attention straight away, the writing is absolutely amazing, the way the reactions are described are flawless, you just don’t want to stop reading. It’s twisted, gruesome and sick but yet it’s highly addictive and I love it.

“Slowly, I advanced. I treaded carefully, feeling a sort of defeating dread building up in my stomach. I wished Jacob had come in with me. When I turned the corner and entered the kitchen, the sticky, putrid smell grew stronger. Fighting the urge to run, I turned on the lights in order to see the kitchen.
Then instantly wished I hadn't.”

I find it really fascinating how the characters are linked to one another, very clever; it also adds a nice twist to the story.
The Flash back scenes are outstanding, the attention to detail is out of this world, alot of authors tend to gloss over scenes that involved murder, I am so glad we don’t have that problem with this Fic, I feel if someone is going to write a DarkFic then they should do it properly!!
Echo has not held back and that is what has drawn me so much!
There is Unknown POV’s which I find really interesting, I keep changing my mind on who’s POV it could actually be! No clues have been given yet on who it could actually be but I find that an extra bonus on keeping you on the edge of your seat.
This is a Fic that has the potential for even greater darkness (Getting Goosebumps at the thought) hope you all enjoy.....

“I heard him pursuing me and tried not to fall on my ass. I needed to get away from this, I had to. But it was pointless to run. He caught up to me quickly and suddenly there was a hand around my waist, hot breath at my ear, and a sharp knife at my throat.”

Killing Death on Twilighted.

Shot in the Dark - Renfield's Paraphilia

2010-06-12T04:10:00.000-07:00

Welcome to the first posting of a regular monthly feature looking at Dark one-shots. Each month we will be reviewing something short and dark whether vamp or AH.
This is an excellent taster to the Darkside.
Recommendations always welcome.

Renfield's Paraphilia by swill122 and mjinaspen

SUMMARY: The Age of Edward Contest Entry: Lead Detective in the case against Richard Chase, the “Vampire of Sacramento,” Edward Masen faces debilitating nightmares about his unrequited love, slain by the serial killer. DISTURBING IMAGES.

Dihenydd says:-

Renfield was the ‘lunatic’ under the influence of Dracula in the original vampire novel. One definition of paraphilia is “recurrent, intense, sexually arousing fantasies involving the suffering or humiliation of oneself or one's partner”. Renfield’s Paraphilia is the obsession to drink blood for the purpose of sexual arousal.

If there is one story that illustrates that there are undiscovered gems out there this is it for me. I was told about it by swill122 when we were discussing her collaboration with mjinaspen. When I first read it there were 6 reviews on mjinaspen’s profile and zero in swill122’s. It was an entry in the hugely popular Age of Edward contest where it garnered an unbelievable 0% of the vote and was placed third from bottom. Yet I have no hesitation in saying that it is my all time favorite one-shot.

Contrary to popular belief Darkward is not one dimensional and predictable. There are so many complex interpretations, both vampire and human. This is Dark in a very real sense, Edward lives where no light shines and he is punishing himself physically and mentally.

“His regret is so intense, so stifling, he cannot work through it or around it at all. And the one thing that he thought would free him fell flat, dead. It's devastating for him, and we wanted people to feel that.” - mjinaspen

The lyrical third party narrative is told partly through dreams making use of poetic devices like repetitive phrasing and alliteration.

“dreams that make him restless at night and reckless during the day”

"then he remembers the blood corrupting his stomach and retches wretched all over her body"

“The blood seems endless, the supply limitless, his stomach bottomless”

It has a haunting quality that is at once disjointed, unnerving and cohesive. It speaks eloquently of lost opportunities, lost innocence, lost hope.

The almost imperceptible transitions from happy memories, through flirting which is full of expectations, to erotic fantasies and finally full on horror are nothing short of hypnotizing. The inevitable chilling conclusion is all the more repugnant because of its innocent beginnings.

"Every night Edward dreams about Her flirting, the banter, and the moment when everything spins on its axis. She is the object of his uncontrollably destructive desire. In his dreams he wants Her body, yes, but he also wants Her blood, Her pulse, Her life. He wants it all”.

The eroticism is so powerful it is hard not to be affected, then when it all turns bad we feel guilt for being so affected, in much the same way that Edward does. Yet it is in no way titillating or exploitative. It is edgy and gripping with mesmerizing imagery and a truly original plot.

This is a disturbing story that will stay with you for a long time. If you can take the darkness it is so worth the reading.

~{{{*}}}~

Sweetp-1 says: If you're anything like me you'll have read a huge number of great, well written fanfic stories - lucky for us all, good reads in this fandom aren't hard to come by. The flip side of that, is that it takes something truly brilliant to stand out, to stay with you long after you've finished reading, to be the story that you begin to measure all other one-shots by.

Renfield's Paraphilia is one of those stories for me.

Months ago, when I read it for the first time I remember leaving it open for a few days before I came back and tried to leave a review. I wanted to say how much I enjoyed it, and yet, I almost felt guilty for writing that - this isn't an enjoyable read.

This is a dark, disturbing read that haunted me for days afterwards, just as Edward is haunted by his loss, the despair and horror that are so poignantly portrayed linger long after the story has ended.

Edward's story is one of an angry, jaded cop. It's a stark and raw picture - this is a man broken by the things he has seen. Police reports and newspaper headlines give the story an authentic feel that captures the era, and the horror surrounding the "Vampire of Sacramento" case.

"Every day he faces himself in the early morning light. He brews coffee, reads the paper, and smokes four Camels before heading to the shooting range and then to work. Every day he is a dead man walking."

Close to the edge, lost in the darkness of his grief and guilt, Edward is a man who finds little respite in sleep. Seductive and sensually poetic, the dream sequences provide a welcome almost-relief against the desolation of his waking hours. We see the man he might have been, the playfulness and the sinfully sweet descriptions draw the reader in, mesmerized by the erotic turn his dreams take, it's heartbreaking as these precious moments too, slip into horror.

"The milk-white cream is there, all over her thighs. His tongue is jealous as his eyes feast on it. He pushes her thighs wide and whispers, "be a good girl, strawberry, and lay back for me…" At first, he sees pretty white lace obstructing the view between her thighs, but just as he wishes it were gone, it is. She's still focused on him, and she still moans without moving her mouth, and he dives tongue-first into her pink flesh. His gun is laying off to Bella's side, long forgotten in the furor of Edward and her new dance."

For a darkness that goes beyond the stereotypical gore or shocking twist at the end, and for writing that is simply exquisite - Renfield's Paraphilia is simply a must-read.

~{{{*}}}~

YellowGlue says:

"I have to find the strawberries, Bella. I found the cream... Where are the strawberries?"

So, I read this one shot, Renfield's Paraphilia, months upon months upon months ago, when I first found my way into Twific. I poked around FF.net a bit, posted a story, nothing really caught my interest right away. Until I was recc'd this story. It was the first story that not only slamfucked my priorities right away and demanded ALL of my immediate interest, but it stuck with me. For days. And days.

There were only 10 reviews for this story at that point.

Weeks later, still on my mind, I pulled out my copy of Dracula, and sure enough: "R.M. Renfield, aetat 59. Sanguine temperament, great physical strength, morbidly excitable, periods of gloom, ending in some fixed ideas which I cannot make out. I presume that the sanguine temperament itself and the disturbing influence end in a mentally-accomplished finish, a possibly dangerous man..."

Sounds about right...

According to psychological theory, sanguine is one of the four temperaments corresponding to different personality types: Sanguine, Choleric, Melancholic, and Phlegmatic. Out of the four, Sanguine doesn't seem like it would be the primary choice for a typical Darkward. But, upon further research I found that people with this temperament tend to be creative, and often give themselves over to dreams and daydreams. Yes, now we're getting somewhere. They're also very sensitive, compassionate, and thoughtful. They also tend to be forgetful and are chronically late.

"I lost focus," Edward exhales nicotine smoke. "I... dropped the ball. I was late."

Yes, now I'm getting somewhere with these puzzle pieces.

Paraphilia: sexual arousal to objects, situations or individuals that are not of normative stimulation and that may cause distress or serious problems to the paraphiliac or persons associated. More specifically / in this case: the suffering or humiliation of oneself or one's partner.

And her eyes meet his, and they ask, "How does your kind define love, Edward?"

Same as all bodies... same as everywheres...

"... love is sacrifice ... "

Edward is human in this story, BY THE WAY.

I feel like this is crucial, epic even, considering he's the only actual dynamic human Dark-Darkward I've ever read.

The story begins with a police report, written by our main character, Edward. I suppose I could say protagonist, instead of main character, but only very loosely. Protagonists tend to be defined as heroes with whom the readers share the most empathy. And while I did feel a kind of maybe-sort-of empathy for him, well...

Edward is a merciful God, so he answers that prayer with a single long and languorous lick...

When I say DarkDark, I hope I'm conveying my meaning quite clearly.

After the police report, it switches to third person narration, and the camera pulls way, way back from the character. Then switches to a newspaper article, which relays some rather abhorrent information. The camera pans back to Edward then, holding the paper, and back to the third person narration, keeping a generous distance. For a few lines.

Because then, it goes into the nightmares, where

the rougher he dives, the higher she climbs...

and I just love it when authors include bone-crack sounds and a man that knows how to handle a Smith and Wesson 9mm and a man that knows he

can take from her as he pleases.

I'll never think about gun etiquette the same way again.

As the story opens wider, you find that time is completely surreal and nonlinear. Along with space. And many of the actions themselves. First you're here and then you're there, and

his clothes have gone wherever hers have gone...

and it's all

thump thump thump thump thump thumping...

all around him and you.

It reads like a Bosch painting, frighteningly surreal before surrealism ever was, and moves like a Breton Manifesto: "dictated by the thought, in the absence of any control exercised by reason, exempt from any aesthetic or moral concern."

The camera moves closer, and closer still throughout the story, zooming in on details that are all at the same time macabre, morbid, and musical. The whole piece reads reads like lyrical art, which is awesome for one author to create. It is *amazing* that this is a collaboration of two authors, and that the seams between them slip absolutely invisibly. And though it's the images that stick with you the longest:

...nothing distracts him from her strawberries - pink, puckered, and wet from his tongue and teeth...

The rhyme, and the the meter that this story has, the alliteration and the way the story coagulates back and forth, that sticks you tight in the moment and leaves you spinningsick afterward. Sometimes you're reading a story and sometimes, you're being told this story, and *sometimes* you're in the storyteller's head. The voice, like the camera of narration, also fluctuates throughout the story, swings like a blade. Sometimes it's speaking about him, very cold and detached. Sometimes for him, frustrated and seeking and desperate. And sometimes through him, panicked. Terrified. It offers it's own pungent and pyrotic brand of explanations, exclamations, excuses, and eluding inquiries.

There are only 13 reviews for this story at this point.

And this baffles me. It is completely egregious to me, this story and it's authors: swill122 and mjinaspen, haven't received more attention, affection, respect, and love.

It left me instantly disturbed, and still (to this day)haunted, and there's not much in the way of current art and literature that does that. While pitchdarkness isn't for everyone, I believe that when it's crafted this fantastically, it should be praised fearlessly. I could not be more thankful to have been told about this story, to these two girls for writing and sharing it, and to have this opportunity to tell EVERYONE to read it. If you're brave enough.

Far and away, my very favoritest one shot, ever.

ABOUT OUR REVIEWERS

dihenydd betas for lambcullen and other wonderful writers and reads altogether too much Twific.

sweetp-1 is the author of many award winning fics and is currently writing Once we were Kings an Edward/Seth story.

yellowglue is the author of the complete fic The Worst of Weather (reviewed here last week), the EPOV Rose Like Thunder (WIP) and some stunning one-shots.

So there you have our educated opinion - now go read and review it! And don't forget to come back next month for another awesome one shot recommendation.

The Worst of Weather Guest Review

2010-06-05T02:53:00.000-07:00

The Deviants are now in full swing. We have a full calendar and are super excited about things to come.
The first week of every month will be Guest Reviewer time...and here's our very first one.

MARIA2906 says:

Did you ever wonder how Edward and Bella’s relationship would have evolved if he could actually hear her thoughts?
Would he have continued to stay away from her physically if he could hear how much she wanted him?
Would he have left her regardless?
Would he have changed her if he saw through her thoughts how badly and sincerely she needed it?

The Worst of Weather answers these questions for us. YellowGlue creates a world of an intense and irrevocable love, and an overwhelming passion that will have you hyperventilating in no time!
The Cullens are vampires, and Bella has a very close relationship with them. Especially with Edward. From the moment they meet they share a very unique bond that slowly transforms into an endless love, and most importantly,...an uncontrollable need.
The twist here is that Edward can hear her thoughts.
And she knows it.
She sometimes uses it.

He craves her blood, her body, her everything. She needs him in ways that scare even her. But why is he holding back?
Why does he push her away?
How will he react to the fact that she has another man in her life now?

I cannot even describe the way my heart pounds like crazy every time these two are alone. I feel like if they would let their feelings take over, they would devour each other.
This story is a must read in my opinion. Bella is determined and passionate and knows exactly what she wants. Edward is mysterious and possessive, and oh so very hot!! It is only 9 chapters and it’s completed!

And the very best part?

YellowGlue is writing Rose like Thunder which is the same story, but from Edward’s Point of View! We get to dive into this mysterious man’s head and see just what he thinks and how he feels.
Lastly, just a little taste...

I felt his hands on my scalp, in my hair, at the back of my neck. Tilting my naked throat to his mercy.
I whimpered and blinked, but was too dizzy and drunk to keep my eyes open.
I felt him breathe in lungful after lungful as he pressed his nose into my collarbone. He twisted my head from left to right and back and forth again and made himself drunk too, on the smell of my blood.
"Soon," he whispered, kissing along my jaw line.
I'd gone from freezing to overheating against his icicle fingertips and lips and hips. "I will have you Isabella, all to myself. And you will know-"
Wet, open mouth kisses down my chin, over my neck. And I couldn't form words but if I could I would have continued to plead.
"Just what it means to beg."

Dihenydd says:

In a genre of almost half a million stories it is pure luck to come across a voice that is truly original. Yellowglue is. Her language is replete with sensuous overtones, evoking all our senses. You can almost taste this story.

“He nuzzled my neck all soft and sweet and I knew he was touching me and could see and hear everything but I couldn't help it: all I could think was sugar.
White chocolate.
French vanilla.
Sweet soft so cold slow churned dulce de leche ice cream.”

So unique is her style that she invents her own language. A language both startlingly sensual and painfully emotive.

The vampires of The Worst of Weather are slightly different from canon. The Cullen family consists of Carlisle, Esme, Edward and Alice; Jasper has only recently joined them. Bella had been unofficially adopted by them some years before; she is in her early 20’s now.

While at school Edward and Bella fell in love. However things went wrong somewhere, or maybe his feelings weren’t as strong as hers. Bella felt rejected and moved away to school needing to try and make a clean break. She is now in a relationship with Jacob.

None of the vampires have gifts but Edward can hear Bella’s thoughts when he is in skin to skin contact with her. She is also his singer. This gives rise to some achingly beautiful descriptions of the way she affects him. Her triple voice - that of her words, her thoughts and her blood all mingle together. Until I read this I never really empathized with his steadfast decision not to change her. These descriptions make it bitingly clear just what he would lose if he did. This is just part of an extremely erotic encounter where he literally gets drunk on the smell of her blood.

“His mouth was open against my windpipe and he was gasping in breath after breath, swallowing every other inhale. Greedy for my sanguine moonshine.
My heart was racing and I knew each beat hit him like a double shot of scotch, straight to the chest. But I couldn't help it. And he couldn't get enough.
He shifted his weight again and nudged my legs open with one of his. I could feel him, hard like a stone pressing against the inside of my thigh.
The game always had this effect, no matter how innocent it may have started on his part.
I whimpered again, louder. I tried to speak and to push him away, but he held me down easily. He breathed in deep from my left temple. Turned and twisted my head and neck. And had started to slowly, almost lazily grind his hips down against mine.”

The story begins with her arriving to spend the Christmas break with the Cullens believing that Edward will not be there. Of course he is.

It is clear that Bella is still obsessed with him. His feelings are less easy to define though. He seems to want it both ways. He wants her to belong to him but doesn’t seem to want to give her anything back, not his attention, not his time, and certainly not his affection beyond a certain point. He allows intimacy for a while just enough to get her (and us) really worked up and then denies her. Leaving her feeling hurt and rejected. He is snide, he is spiteful. Or is he? He certainly confuses the hell out of Bella.

She is crying out for affection and he seems to be continually winding her up and letting her down, making hurtful comments yet acting possessively. She copes by drinking and spends most of her time either drunk or stoned. The UST is tangible, it hums in the air between them.

We become consumed with Bella’s desperation, the agony of her desire and the humiliation of rejection as Edward continues to be aloof. Yet the story contains some of the sexiest lemons you will ever come across.

“I was shaking again, wondering if he could feel the butterflies in the pit of my tummy just under where his fingertips were playing all too softly. I blinked and caught a grin spread as my thought went through to him and he licked at my lips as I parted them once again for his entrance.
My body was writhing next to his, a wriggling wiggle worm of weakness and longing, aching for contact, pressure, friction he was refusing to give. He kissed his way across my cheek and turned my head to kiss along my neck and ear. Wet, open mouth kisses, sapless and suckling.
"Show me…" he whispered. His voice was heavy, commanding my ship.
I swallowed. Hesitated. Wanted kisses.
"Show me what you want Little One." His voice dropped, heavier. Fervent. Clear in what he wanted.
And in the instant he loosed his grip on my wrists; my hands flew between my legs like birds out of cage and my hips raised up off of the bed to meet them.
His smile curled and I could see his teeth; his sharp teeth, bared and beautiful. "Good girl…"”

He might not be what we think of as the classic Darkward - a callous killer - but he has many of the same qualities. He is arrogant, possessive, passionate, manipulative, predatory and ruthless as far as his own agenda is concerned. I can’t recommend this story highly enough.

Amelie Gee says:

I will always have to thank this story for introducing me to Darkward. Even though I always say that YellowGlue is an amazing author - in whatever she writes - the Edward of The Worst of Weather has to be her masterpiece. From the beginning, it's obvious that this isn't the controlled, polite Edward that Stephenie Meyer introduced to us in the Saga; Bella isn't thrilled at the idea of seeing him, she seems to be terrified.

Everything was fine. Had been fine – good even – for months now. School was fine. My painting was fine. The drive back to Forks was just fine.

And then I'd seen his car, that stupid, stupid car. And it turned everything inside and all around me totally topsy-turvy.

I sat still. Still far away from the other cars in the long driveway, right where I'd braked after turning in and spotting the Volvo. I sat still, but my mind was running away in ten different directions.

If I hadn't stopped to get that bottle of water then maybe I'd have beaten him here. Then he would have been the one to walk in surprised and find me mid-conversation with Esme instead of the other way around…

But instead I was here, alone, trying to catch my breath and composure.

He's not even supposed to be here! He's supposed to be in Prague on a work study! What the fuck?

He skulks throughout the story, always seeming to wait around the corner, one step ahead of Bella, confusing and utterly seductive. And though this Edward doesn't sample the wine, he has no qualms about getting drunk off the bouquet.

I felt his hands on my scalp, in my hair, at the back of my neck. Tilting my naked throat to his mercy.

I whimpered and blinked, but was too dizzy and drunk to keep my eyes open.

I felt him breathe in lungful after lungful as he pressed his nose into my collarbone. He twisted my head from left to right and back and forth again and made himself drunk too, on the smell of my blood.

It had been a favorite game of his for years, smelling me up this way.

Sometimes he got so intoxicated his words would begin to slur slightly and he would actually stumble upon standing.

He turned me about like a doll, and burrowed his nose into my hair. Each of my cheeks. My neck and shoulders, pulling the fabric of my shirt away where he wanted his nose against bare skin.

I hiccupped again, half a whine half a gasp as he shuffled his weight on top of me. My thoughts were all fuzzy and firewarmth and I couldn't focus on anything at all.

He twisted his long fingers back into my hair and made fists and pulled back, arching my throat to his good judgment once more.

Cut quick. Please make it quick. The thought flashed through my mind, pure adrenaline.

"Never."

His whisper was rough. He was all over my body and all inside my head. And I felt so exposed. So vulnerable underneath him.

I felt before I heard a low growl deep in his chest. His mouth was open against my windpipe and he was gasping in breath after breath, swallowing every other inhale. Greedy for my sanguine moonshine.

Thanks to Amelie for the video and Bettigefecht for the banner.

THE WORST OF WEATHER ON FF.NET

We hope you liked our first guest review. Please leave a comment and let us know, or email us with Darkwards that you want to see reviewed.

Next week Dihenydd has another new segment to our dark little blog.

Ultio by 22blue & mac214

2010-05-21T08:16:00.000-07:00

Summary: The beast that is retribution consumes Edward's mind, body, and soul. Everyone will pay - Edward Cullen has no limits. AU/OOC Rated M

Donnarai Says:

"Hello, Billy," Edward said with an overly-wide smile, his sharp teeth flashing in the dim light. "My name is Edward. Do you know what I am?"
Billy nodded, curling his fingers tightly into the sheet that covered him."

This Fic got Rec'd to me by none other the Lambie, and i must say its one of the best Recci's i have had!!

The authors 22blue and mac214 work so well together, they have created a Fic that is totally different to any other dark Fic i have read and that's what has drawn me in.

Its deals with a very dark Edward, who's sole purpose is to get revenge on those that have hurt him the most by taking away his one true love, he wont stop until they have truly suffered and are left broken and preferably dead!!
He walks away from everyone that loves him to start his deadly game, he has all the time in the world to stalk his pray.........and he is not afraid of letting them know, so they are in constant fear and are always on edge to the state of paranoia!!

Another thing I love about this is that you get to know a bit more about Charlie, Renee, Billy and Jacob, you will find that the 1st half of this Fic is about them and Edward! Unfortunately Bella doesn't appear until later on, but it all works out very well and is vital to the story.

I cannot seem to get enough of this Fic, and will be absolutely gutted when it comes to an end (may have to do a wee bit of stalking to get them to do another Darkward Fic) but for now I will enjoy what i can get!!

Bella’s bottom lip trembled and a few tears trickled down her cheeks from Jake’s harsh words. She planted herself under the shade of the tall tree that sat in the middle of the front lawn, plucking handfuls of grass and throwing it away from her.

"What’s wrong, little one? Did that mean Jake upset you?"

Bella nodded her head, her face in a deep pout. She wasn’t afraid of the man kneeling before her. She had seen him before. She remembered him from her dreams, and she liked the way his skin sparkled in the sun.

Edward gently placed his cold finger under her chin, lifting her head so he could look her in the eye. She tilted her head to the side and smiled brightly; there was still something familiar about the set of her eyes Edward couldn’t quite put his finger on. He heard Renee’s footsteps shuffling to the front door. Edward raised his index finger to his mouth and returned Bella’s smile.

"Sh," he whispered and jumped straight up into the tree.

This Fic is an M (NC-17 ) rating so if you are offended or unsure of the 1st chpt then i would suggest that you don't read on as it gets a hell of alot darker and when we say dark we mean DARK!!

Enjoy........

Lambcullen Says:

I was fic-diving again, and stumbled upon the summary for this. The first sentence intrigued me and by the end of the prologue I couldn't stop reading.

Edward is extreme in this one - psychologically speaking, and as the authors say themselves: He has no limits. When we say Darkward we really mean DARK. However, the thing that amazes me the most is that I understand what leads him to do each and every one of the acts he commits.
Love.
He starts off thoroughly content, but Edward's love is not Bella in this fic - at least not so far (we can always hope). He was married to Kate and happy, until Charlie and Billy bring his, along with Jasper's world crashing down around him. From that moment this vampire is driven by revenge...and so starting this wonderfully dark, twisted tale. There are parts that will astound you, but even at his cruellest there is still a sympathy for what he's lost.
He hits heights that have been visited by other Darkward's, but never done this well - with such chilling precision.
I always smile when the authors write the Psychometer reading at the top of each chapter. They also let you know if lollipops and Snuggies will be needed. So take note of these warnings, as they're not typing them for fun. They mean it! Especially the chapter with a solid 9 as the rating.

Before Renee could blink, Edward stood in front of her, practically vibrating with rage. There was a strange, juicy, crunching noise that sounded loudly inside of Renee's head, and then she crumpled to the ground holding her nose with blood rushing out between her fingers. The radiating pain caught up with her only moments later.
"Does that feel like a dream, Renee?" Edward snarled at her.
Renee sobbed on the ground, her fingers clutching at her face. She had never been struck before on purpose and had never so much as broken a toe. The pain drew her back to reality and the realization this was not a dream. Renee's fight or flight instinct took over; she was in no condition to fight, so she hobbled to her feet and ran as fast as her legs would move.
Edward rolled his eyes and waited, giving her a head start.

I don't want to give too much away, because you all really need to read it, but with the last chapter came a shift. It was a change in Edward that I'd never honestly expected, but I'm desperate to see exactly what's going to unfold.
These two authors gave us all a Darkward like no other, and I adore them for doing that.

Go. Read.

But don't forget your lollies and Snuggies.

ULTIO ON FF.NET

Happy Birthday Robert Pattinson

2010-05-13T05:24:00.000-07:00

Today is the day our favourite obsession turns 24 so we here at Deviants of the Dark would like to wish him all the best for his big day.

Many happy returns Rpatz

Love Donnarai , Lambie & dihenydd
xxx

Welcome to the Darkside.........

2010-05-08T07:02:00.000-07:00

House of the Horde by Raggdoll of Twilight

Watch the video here.

Donnarai says:

This Fic has it all when it comes to a good gripping story, Suspense, Arrogance, Violence, Bloodlust, and my personal favourite is deliciously dark...... so in other words everything you could possibly need in a Darkward Fic!!
Raggdoll of Twilight really takes this to the next level, and for that you have to praise her, each chapter gets darker and darker, leaving you begging for more.
She is not afraid to push the boundaries when it comes to Edward, and that's exactly why we love her!
If you think there might be a chance for Sappyward here then i am sorry to inform you but this is 100% Darkward at its best so you're best moving along!!
Hope you all enjoy it as much as i do.

Lambcullen says:

Finding this fic was one of those instances where fic-diving works! I was browsing Twilighted for something new, desperate for a Darkward that wasn't about to turn into Sappyward just as Donna said, and I stumbled upon the banner. It drew me in immediately and looking at some of the other reviews it appears I wasn't the first. I was still cautious, but gave it a try as there were only a few chapters online...

I was amazed!

It gave me everything I was looking for and more. So much so that I recci'd it like crazy on Twitter to anyone that would listen.

Bella is different than most; she is kicks ass and is stunned to find herself imprisoned with a horde of Vampires. Our favorite Cullen's are not as you expect, though their characteristics do remain. It took me less than two chapters to be hooked, and by the time I'd caught up I was thirsty for more.

"Are you afraid of me?" Edward asked and reached for a table that stood against the wall next to him.
He uncorked a black bottle that sat comfortably in a silver circular device. When he titled the bottle to the small brandy glass a thick liquid flowed from the mouth.
Blood.
I clenched my jaw when he picked it up and brought it to his lips.
"No," I answered simply.

Even faced with a blood drinking Vampire Bella still holds her own, determined to show her strength.

"People respond differently to a bite. The venom could be harmful, even fatal if you have a reaction to it." He stepped closer, and I backed up into the room, farther from freedom.
Reaction? Oh, God! "You bit me! I'm not going to turn into one of you am I?" I nearly yelled.

The fic gets more intriguing the more characters we're introduced to, and for all the Aro lovers, he's in this plenty! It's still only 8 chapters in, so everything is just starting to unfold, but I would suggest you get on board now. This author is like the goldmine of Darkward...I honestly can't pimp her enough.

Go! You won't be sorry.

House of the Horde on FanFiction.
The Authors Blog.

Banners & Video courtesy of Raggdoll of Twilight.

So, how did we do with our first rec? Leave us some love...

COMING SOON...

2010-05-07T08:13:00.000-07:00

Coming soon - a monthly blog dedicated to all things Darkward!

....Everything looks better in the dark.....