Book Review: Steamy Cider and Apples (Holiday Jobs that Don't Suck #8) by Jackie Nacht

When Tyler finds that he needs to earn some extra money to cover his fraternity dues for the next semester, his frat brother, Mitch, suggests working at with his twin brother, Sawyer, making apple cider and cinnamon doughnuts. This is a win-win situation for Tyler since he'll be able to earn money for dues and spend time with his crush. Little does he know that Sawyer has been crushing on him as well.

Short and sweet, this is a nice, quick read. It has romance, humor, awkwardness and a little tension mixed in. As always, it was nice to see some of the characters from previous novellas and know they're happy and still in love, particularly Merrick and Darren from Pink Bunny Ears...Seriously?.

Buy Steamy Cider and Apples here and here.

~ M

Adopt a Dog by EdwardsMate4Ever

Adopt a Dog by EdwardsMate4Ever

While working at the annual Pit Bull Adoption Fair, Seth feels dismayed. He's in charge of the older dogs, who are always harder to place in forever homes than the puppies. On top of that, the breed has such a stigma attached to it, so Seth's day seems hopeless. When a handsome strangers shows interest in Seth's favorite, eight-year-old female Pit, Xena, he's both happy that she'll be in a good home and saddened that she'll be leaving the shelter. However, Xena's adoption may bring more happiness than he ever anticipated.

I really enjoyed this story! As a dog lover, I appreciated the fact that EdwardsMate4Ever highlighted adopting dogs that are not only difficult to place because of breed, but also age. It breaks my heart every time I visit an animal shelter and see the older dogs waiting to be adopted. :( EdwardsMate4Ever was also able to effectively mix in the right about of snark, wide-eyed wonder and compassion into my favorite Twilight character, Seth. Emmett was great as the all-American hunky guy with a teddy bear's heart. The development of the MC's relationship seemed very realistic and didn't seem at all rushed in this one shot. Definitely give this heartwarming story a try! It's really sweet.

Story links: FF I AO3 I Fictionpad

~ M

A Birthday Carol by zeewriter

A Birthday Carol by zeewriter

After the death of his wife, Bella, and best friend, Alice, within years of each other, Edward has hidden himself away from the world. He's become a grumpy man who can't be bothered with anyone or anything. In the midst of his grief, he inadvertently abandoned his good friend, Jasper, as he dealt with Alice's death and becoming a single father.

One night, Edward is informed that he will be visited by three ghosts throughout the night who will try to convince him to live his life and explore the feelings he's had for Jasper all these years. He finds it hard to believe that ghosts will visit him and that he has feelings for his good, male friend. Will Edward be convinced to follow his heart or will he live the remainder of his years as a Scrooge.

A Christmas Carol is a holiday classic everyone is familiar with and perfect for this time of year. zeewriter's Twilight and slash twists not only breathe new life into the well-known story, but also adds a little fun and excitement. This is great holiday short story that will bring a smile to your face and warm your heart!

~ M

Life for Sale, Love for Keeps by Raven.Borgia

Life for Sale, Love for Keeps by Raven.Borgia

After yet another day of fighting in the arena, Agron and Duro use their winnings to purchase whores for a night of passion. The raven-haired slave, known as Tanis, chosen to fulfill all desires immediately intrigues Agron. He is taken by his beauty, but there is also something deep down that Agron can't ignore. Tanis is shocked by the tenderness and care bestowed upon him. So often the other gladiators are rough and unkind, leaving him injured and empty. Each week Agron and Tanis meet to not only sate their desires, but also pretend that they are just two free men connecting with one another. When Ashur threatens to keep them apart, Agron must try everything within his power to keep Tanis safe and in his arms.

This story is so good! It has a great mixture tension, angst, heat and romantic fluff. I fell in love with both characters and with each passing chapter, I root for the success of their relationship. Things won't be easy for the couple as they exist in slavery, but I definitely look forward to seeing what happens!

~ M

picture credit: steorie.livejournal.com

The Boy Who Bakes by Evergreene

The Boy Who Bakes by Evergreene

Summary:  In which Agron works in a bakery called the Ludus and Nasir has a crush on him.

Nasir has been harboring a crush on the wildly handsome Agron, who works at the new bakery, The Ludus, across the street from his place of employment. Encouraged, and forced, by his good friend and co-worker, Naevia, to meet the enticing stranger, Nasir is struck by not only Agron's beauty, but also his kindness.

Agron, on the other hand, recognizes Nasir immediately. In another life, he and the little man shared something truly special, and Agron has been waiting, rather impatiently, in this life for the return of his love. Will Nasir remember the passion and devotion he shared with Agron in a much simpler time, or will he become overwhelmed by his inexplicable feelings for his new friend?

If you're looking for a sweet and fluffy reincarnation fic, this is a great read. Evergreene captures the awkwardness and frustration shared by both Nasir and Agron as they try to navigate their new relationship. I'm looking forward to seeing how things develop between the MCs and wonder when, and if, Nasir will remember their incredible love affair from so long ago.

~ M

picture credit: disco-mouse@deviantart

Book Review: Sappy Pine Trees and Sticky Fingers (Holiday Jobs that Don't Suck #10) by Jackie Nacht

Summary: Tis the season - pine needles, sap and frozen limbs, yet these two can still feel the heat between them.

Three years ago, Grant left for school, but he didn't leave without regret. An attraction to his friend, Wyatt, that he'd never pursued, has haunted him these past years. Finally, while home for holiday break, he has a second chance when he runs into non other than Wyatt himself.

Wyatt has always regretted the moment lost between him and Grant. When Grant starts working at Wyatt's family Christmas tree farm, Wyatt can sense that the feelings between them have never dwindled in all the time they were apart. A second chance is brought before them, but what will happen when Grant has to return to school?

*~*~*

2.75 stars

I thought this was a sweet and uncomplicated second-chance-at-love story. I've enjoyed all of the novellas in the Holiday Jobs that Don't Suck series, but I didn't feel the same spark between Grant and Wyatt that I felt between the other couples in the series. Both characters were very nice and likeable, but I wish their relationship could have been developed a little more. This is a fun, quick read that great for the holiday season.

Buy Sappy Pine Trees and Sticky Fingers  here and here.

~ M

Skin Deep by Hank's Lady

Skin Deep by Hank's Lady

Kyle is good looking, wealthy and seemingly has boundless opportunities in life. Many would give their right arm for just a fraction of what he has. Even though he has the world at his feet, he is also very shallow, superficial, cruel and emotionally unavailable. His father runs a successful modeling agency, so looks are everything in his family. When a witch casts a spell on Kyle in order to teach him a lesson, he soon discovers that there are more important things in this world than how a person looks or what kind of status he/she has. A lonely vampire slowly shows Kyle that love is worth more than all treasures of the world.

When I started reading this story, I was unfamiliar with the movie Beastly. I knew a little bit from the trailers I'd seen when it was released years ago, but I had no clue about the characters. I recently had the opportunity to watch the film and it provided a great backdrop for Hank Lady's latest tale. Kyle is the epitome of the man you love to hate. He's mean, attitudinal, shallow and just an overall prick. Edward is so shy and melancholy that I constantly want to reach through the computer screen and give him a hug. The developing relationship between the two main characters is both sweet and frustrating (in a good way), and I can't wait to see where it goes in future chapters.

~ M

Story links: FF.net  TWCS

Banner by Mina Rivera

Book Review: In Another Life by Cardeno C.

4.5 stars

This an adorable story about an 18-year-old, Shiloh, who feels his life has reached such a low that it would be better for everyone, in his mind, if he committed suicide. As he's taking his final breaths, he gets a glimpse of what his life could be if he lived. Not only does he have a great job and overall happiness, but he also finds the love of his life. Will Shiloh be able to live out the great life he's destined to have or will he be forced to regret the life he gave up?

This short story is filled with emotion, tenderness, heat and plenty of fluffy "aww" moments. Shiloh and Travis have a love many wish they could have and it was sweet seeing how everything turned out for the two men. Definitely recommended.

Buy In Another Life  here and here.

~ M

Hate Me by dreamingkate

Hate Me by dreamingkate

Whenever Kurt wants to shut down a disagreement or argument, he throws the cheating incident in Blaine's face. He is unaware how much this hurts his fiance and how the incident still deeply affects him to this day. Kurt's heart breaks when he overhears Blaine saying affirmations to convince himself he's not horrible person.

Wow! This is one angsty story! The emotions portrayed by both characters are so palpable that my heart literally hurt for Blaine and his feelings of self-loathing brought about by the person he loves most. I would definitely recommend this short story. It will tug at your heartstrings.

~ M

picture credit: ineslovesdc

Sure Eyes by KellanCougar

Sure Eyes by KellanCougar

New student, Emmett McCarty, is determined to fit in and make it on to the starting team. However, before he can do so, he must complete a sadistic and cruel hazing ritual. He is tasked with seducing foreign student and outcast, Edward Cullen, and then humiliate him in front of everyone at the big Halloween party. Emmett doesn't want to do it, but at the same time, he wants to fit in, so he begrudgingly agrees. He and Edward soon become close friends and as the Halloween deadline nears, Emmett frantically tries to come up with a way to avoid hurting the guy he's developed genuine feelings for.

I really enjoyed this story about a young man who is forced to get to know someone because of a dare, but ends up finding a true friend and confidant. There are a couple twists and turns that will keep you on your toes, but all in all, this is wonderful read.

~ M

Screwed by AuthorBoi

Screwed by AuthorBoi

Seth is in hell. He and his mom move back to La Push after the death of his father and into a world he knows nothing about. The guys on the reservation, for the most part, seem okay, especially Brady, Paul and Embry, but Jacob Black soon turns into the bane of Seth's existence. Jacob is constantly putting Seth down and making him feel completely stupid and useless for no reason whatsoever. He just wants to get through school so he can go to college and forget about his dismal life. However, changes are quickly occurring that change Seth's entire world.

It's no secret that Seth is my favorite character in the Twi universe, so I was delighted when I discovered this story. It's filled with emotion, tension, heartbreak and fluff. As always, Seth is a wonderful, sweet and nerdy character who also has flaws and Jacob is the the guy you love to hate. Definitely give this story a try! It's great!

~ M

Backstage Pass by MinaWritesSlash

Backstage Pass by MinaWritesSlash

Riley and his twin, Victoria, are traveling around Europe after graduating from college early. When he finds out that his all-time favorite band, Breaking Midnight, and crush, Edward Masen, are going to be in Rome playing a small show, Riley immediately braves the cold and a long line to buy tickets. Little does he know that a chance encounter at a cafe will lead to his dream come true.

This is a delightful story that everyone can relate to. We are all fans of someone or something, so living vicariously through Riley as he meets his idol and celebrity crush is a fun experience. The chemistry between the two men is really sweet and I found myself cheering by the end of the story. I definitely recommend this incredibly fluffy and romantic story!

~ M

This is Our House by strictlybecca

This is Our House by strictlybecca

Nasir is constantly being surprised by his boyfriend, Agron, and his fraternity. He thought he knew all about frats and the havoc they wreak, but Sigma Zeta, led by Spartacus, pleasantly surprises him.

Cute, touching and very sweet, this one shot will bring a smile to your face. Nasir's shock and awe at the awareness, compassion and foresight of the Sigma Zeta fraternity is fun to watch. As always, Agron is a total sweetheart when it comes to his Nasir. Throw in Duro, Pietros and the rest of the motley crew of silly characters and you have one great read! Check it out!

~ M

Nothing Else Matters by Emmett's Submissive

Nothing Else Matters by Emmett's Submissive

Emmett has been unhappy for a long time. He's married to a self-absorbed, selfish and vapid vampire who couldn't care less about anyone (or anything) but herself. When he locks eyes with a small shifter named Brady during a training session between the Cullens and the Quileute pack, his entire existence, as he knows it, will never be the same.

Wow! This story is awesome! There are so many twists and turns that you will constantly be on the edge of your seat wondering what will happen next! The pairing of Emmett and Brady is something readers don't see very often, but it's a welcome and refreshing change. Readers are also treated to seeing an Edward/Jacob pairing as well as a surprise relationship later on. Definitely give this story a try. It had me hooked from the first chapter!

~ M

Agron's Flowery Palace by Gaia_bing

Agron's Flowery Palace by Gaia_bing

Agron has a passion for plants and flowers and runs a quaint flower shop. When an adorable young man with long raven hair walks into his shop looking for a gift for a friend, Agron is immediately intrigued and enamored. As the two men cross paths over time, Agron can't help but want to get know  him better. Nasir, on the other hand, is impressed by the extremely handsome and knowledgeable shop owner. Agron may get tongue-tied occasionally, but his ability to use flowers to express his thoughts and feelings is very endearing.

This story is absolutely adorable! It's still a work in progress, but it's moving a pace that seems very realistic and heartwarming. I can't wait to see how Agron and Nasir's relationship develops, and I have a feeling readers are in for a treat. With each passing chapter, I find myself thinking "that is so cute!" If you're looking for a story with plenty of fluff and "aww" worthy moments, Agron's Flowery Palace is the one for you!

~ M

REMINDER!!! Nagron Contest - Unlikely Meetings - Submit Story Entries Now!

Calling all slash & Nagron fanfiction writers! 

It’s contest time!

The theme?
Nagron get together under unusual circumstances.
Be creative and have fun!

Submission dates: Nov. 4, 2013 - Dec. 15, 2013

Fic length: 2k - 8k

Send all submissions to: agamom4@gmail.com

Rules:

Agron & Nasir (Spartacus fandom) must be the main pairing. AU’s welcome. No rape, underage (under 18), pedophilia, or incest. M/M only. Any Het entries will be declined.

If you wish to participate, please send an email agamom4@gmail.com, so judges have an idea of the number of entrants.

Please refrain from posting your entries until winners are announced on Dec. 28, 2013.

First, second and third place winners will receive bragging writes and an awesome banner for their winning story!

Forward any questions to agamom4@gmail.com.

Judges: Mrs. Agget, DelphiusFanfic and mw138.


source

Good Luck!

~ M

How We Survive Is What Makes Us Who We Are by DarkAliceLilith

How We Survive is What Makes Us Who We Are by DarkAliceLilith

Student and aspiring photographer, Nasir, has harbored a crush on police officer, Agron, for a couple of years now. He would love to explore his feelings, but the fact that he's only 18, Agron is seven years older and his adopted father, Spartacus, is Agron's boss holds him back. The two men have always been friendly, but because of their age difference and Spartacus, they always kept a safe distance. A photography project finally brings Nasir and Agron together, but Nasir's painful and tortuous past may threaten to tear them apart.

Sweet, angsty and intense, How We Survive... is quite an enjoyable read. The blossoming relationship between Nasir and Agron is cute, but there are also some very serious issues the couple must work through. Agron's tenderness and affection for Nasir will warm you heart and you will definitely root for this couple and their HEA. Give this story a try!

~ M

Dig by LyricalKris

Dig by LyricalKris

Edward and Jasper have been best friends forever. However, when Edward experiences an extremely traumatic event, he immediately withdraws and becomes self-loathing and apathetic to the world around him. Ever the supportive friend, Jasper ensures Edward is taken care of and that he doesn't feel alone, no matter how much he tries to push his friend away. Dealing with something as horrible as rape has scarred Edward mentally and emotionally, but he knows Jasper will always be there for him, even if he doesn't deserve it.

If you love angst, this is definitely the story for you. The subject matter is very heavy, but there is a poignancy that will tug at your heartstrings, make you want to hug Jasper and Edward and keep them safe from all the pain and ugliness of the world. Not only does Jasper have to watch his friend become a shell of the person he once was, he also must come to terms with his strengthening romantic feelings for Edward, and the fact that he's still in the closet.

Give this heart wrenching story a try!

~ M

The Workshop by kateyes085

The Workshop by kateyes085

In order to fulfill a college credit requirement, Agron signs up for an acting class. Many students believe this will be an easy A, but the teacher makes it very clear that he is going to push everyone's limits, explore difficult topics like domestic abuse and racism, and that they will have to work. Agron is a assigned a play with quiet art student, Nasir. They are playing men who are not only in a romantic relationship, but living in a domestic abuse situation. Not one to back down from a challenge, Agron jumps in head first, even though he is slightly nervous about the kissing scene...he isn't gay afterall. However, a spark ignites between the two men, and both must comes to terms with their new, and somewhat scary, feelings.

What a great story so far! The chemistry between Agron and Nasir is quite sweet, even though they suffer from awkward moments and confusion over their feelings for one another. It will be interesting to see how their relationship plays out. Nasir is hiding a frightening secret that will not only help him in his role in the play, but will also probably draw him closer to Agron. I can't wait!

~ M

Swallow Me Whole (Spit Me Out in Pieces) by venomedveins

Swallow Me Whole (Spit Me Out in Pieces) by venomedveins

After months of battle, scars and harsh life, Nasir begins to worry that he may be losing favor with his beloved Agron. He's no longer the soft, unblemished house slave Agron and Spartacus discovered so long ago, so when a young new recruit sets his sights on Agron, Nasir must deal not only with his growing jealousy, but the possibility that he could lose the one person who means the most to him.

Swallow Me Whole... sucks you in right from the start. It's kind of refreshing to see Nasir as the jealous and insecure person in the relationship, but my heart also breaks for him. The harmful and degrading thoughts Nasir lived with for so long as a slave bubble to the surface once again. It's difficult to watch Agron be so blind to the attentions and affections of the new recruit, but there is also something more sinister occurring with the young man. Duro is an awesome character who looks out for Nasir and kicks his brother in the ass when he needs it.

Please give this story a shot. It will definitely hold your interest and leave you begging venomedveins for more!

~ M

Calling All Nagron Writers!!!! Unlikely Meetings: Nagron Fanfiction Contest

Calling all fanfiction writers! 

It’s contest time!

The theme?
Nagron get together under unusual circumstances.
Be creative and have fun!

Submission dates: Nov. 4, 2013 - Dec. 15, 2013

Fic length: 2k - 8k

Send all submissions to: agamom4@gmail.com

Rules:

Agron & Nasir (Spartacus fandom) must be the main pairing. AU’s welcome. No rape, underage (under 18), pedophilia, or incest. M/M only. Any Het entries will be declined.

If you wish to participate, please send an email agamom4@gmail.com, so judges have an idea of the number of entrants.

Please refrain from posting your entries until winners are announced on Dec. 28, 2013.

First, second and third place winners will receive bragging writes and an awesome banner for their winning story!

Forward any questions to agamom4@gmail.com.

Judges: Mrs. Agget, DelphiusFanfic and mw138.


source

Good Luck!

~ M

Fall Fires Blog Tour: If This Is Wrong by K.L. Platt

New Release!

If This is Wrong by K.L. Platt

Summary: As children, Thomas and Caleb formed an unlikely friendship, which has continued through tragedies and celebrations and into manhood. They have grown together over the years, but now their relationship is changing into something more. Can their bond survive the challenges that life will bring them? Is it wrong to risk everything for the chance of something more?

Young Volcanoes by static_abyss

Young Volcanoes by static_abyss

Nasir is sick and tired of his family constantly moving around. He never gets the opportunity to really get to know anyone and feels like as if he's just going through the motions, constantly having to be the "new kid". Enrolling in a new boarding school, Nasir is assured by his parents that the family is going to settle down...at least until he goes to college, which is two years away. Skeptical, Nasir tries to make the best out of the situation. He encounters a motley crew of students who are all relatively friendly (Crixus doesn't like anyone), particularly Agron, the brash, overly confident star athlete and trouble-maker; and Castus, Nasir's suave and flirtatious roommate. Agron immediately calls dibs on the new student and tries his hardest to ensure Nasir doesn't get too close to his nemesis, Castus. Nasir, however, is no one property.

I am absolutely enamored with this story! static_abyss has fleshed out the characters so well that I wish I
was a student at this school and could hang out with this crazy group of people. Nasir is sweet, but also headstrong. He won't take a bunch of crap from anyone, especially Agron. I also appreciate that static_abyss did not make Castus a scheming villain. He's just a regular guy, who is occasionally cocky, but also has good qualities. It will be interesting to see how the relationships between Castus and Nasir, Agron and Nasir and Castus and Agron will play out. I'm definitely looking forward to it!

Also check out the companion story, Years of Experience, which follows Barca as he deals with the pressures and expectations placed upon him by his father, his previous romantic relationships and his current devotion to the kindhearted and much younger Pietros.

Definitely give both of these well-written stories a chance! They're two of the best I've read in the Spartacus fandom!

~ M

Kurt and Blaine's Costumes by chatterboxklaine

Kurt and Blaine's Costumes by chatterboxklaine

Blaine and Sam attend a Halloween party in which everyone arrives as one half of a well-known couple. Reluctantly Blaine agrees to the charade just to see who will turn up as the Kirk to his Spock. Needless to say, he's pleasantly surprised.

Very cute, fluffy and just in time for Halloween! Take a few minutes to read this delightful story! You won't be disappointed!

~ M

Book Review: Wonderland by Jude Ouvrard

After a bad break up, Lucas moves to a new city and decides to take a poetry class as an outlet for his emotions. His teacher, Preston, is about his age and they share a good rapport and camaraderie. As the two men grow closer as friends, Lucas reveals a secret that will drastically change the course of their relationship.

Jude Ouvrard did a great job bringing Lucas and Preston to life through her words. I literally had a lump in my throat throughout most of the story because my heart broke for both characters and what could have been for them. The poetry that introduces each chapter is emotionally gripping and probably my favorite aspect of the short story. I will warn readers that you may need a few tissues nearby, but don't let that deter you from reading this lovely story about love and making the most of out life.

3.5 stars

The publisher provided a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

Buy Wonderland  here and the complete Fall Fires Anthology  here.

Enemy Rebound by addicted-to-romione-bedward

Enemy Rebound by addicted-to-romione-bedward

After Bella runs to Volterra to save Edward from killing himself, she dies in a plane crash on the way home. Edward is beside himself with grief and happily welcomes the vitriol Jacob throws his way once back in Forks. However, something peculiar happens; something neither of them could have imagined. Jacob imprints on Edward and now the two men must find a way to not only co-exist, but deal with their growing feelings for one another.

I've read quite a few imprinting stories involved Edward and Jacob, but this one really stuck out to me because of the immense emotion addicted-to-romione-bedward poured into her words. Ever flicker of pain, confusion, frustration, anger and eventually love is felt so palpably from beginning to end. The reactions from the other members of the Cullen coven were also interesting and in some ways refreshing. Some didn't immediate accept Jacob's new position in the family, while others did. However, it's not the usual suspects who shun him.

Give this story a try. It's emotional, angsty, fluffy and suspenseful; everything you need in a good piece of fanfiction!

~ M

Fall Fires Blog Tour: Winter's Love by N.L. Leeks

New Release!!!

Winter's Love by N.L. Leeks

Summary: A past relationship has left Jerad Winter broken. When Eric Healey runs into him, Jared finds a reason to learn to trust again. The two men begin to fall for one another, but the prejudice around them threatens to tear them apart. Can their love survive the real world?

Book Review: Love, Unexpected by C.W. Stevens

While attending the celebrations, preparations and activities leading up to his cousin's wedding, Evan is torn. He's extremely happy for his cousin, Michael, but at the same time long for the sort the sort of loving relationship his cousin possesses. Evan's nearly thrown from his feet when he meets Michael's fiance's cousin, and best man, Jon. With his mesmerizing blue eyes, killer smile and awesome personality, Jon is exactly what Evan's been looking for. The two men hit it off and grow closer over the course of a few days. There's just one problem, they live hundreds of miles away from each other. Will they find a solution to their long-distance problem or have to let go of "The One"?

This is an adorable short story that I really enjoyed. The interactions between Evan and Jon were heartwarming, swoon-worthy and, at times, scorching. I truly found myself rooting for the couple and hoping they could overcome their obstacle and have the relationship both of them wanted.

If you're looking for a fluffy story with a little angst mixed in, this is a great choice.

The publisher provided a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

Buy Love, Unexpected  hereand the entire Fall Fires Anthology here.

You're My Home by dreamingkate

You're My Home by dreamingkate

When he was five years old, Blaine was so severely beaten by his drunken father that he suffered brain damage. His older brother, Cooper, was determined to protect his little brother at all costs and take care of him as he grew up. Even though his motor skills aren't as fine tuned, his balance is a little off and it takes him longer to process things, Blaine is still a happy, kindhearted guy. When Kurt catches his eye one afternoon at the mall, he takes a chance and asks him out.

This story somehow manages to break and warm my heart at the same time. Blaine is such an innocent, sweet character that you can't help but root for him as he discovers his talents, abilities and desires. Kurt is
Blaine's knight in shining armor, sticking up for him when jerks try to bring him down and supporting him when he thinks he isn't good enough. I highly suggest reading this lovely story about perseverance, determination and personal growth!

~ M

Wishing Doesn't Make It So by Tristansgirl

Wishing Doesn't Make It So by Tristansgirl

Working as an orderly in a mental institution probably isn't someone's first choice as a job. However, Nasir enjoys and embraces his position because he's helping people and making a difference, no matter how small. When a mysterious patient by the name of Agron is admitted to the institution, Nasir is immediately intrigued. Agron believes he is from a different time, when men were gladiators and had to fight Romans for freedom. Even though Nasir wonders about Agron's sanity and tries his hardest to avoid perpetrating his delusions, he can't help but form a friendship with the confused and lost man. Will Nasir be able to keep their relationship professional or will fate step in and bring two lovers from another time together once again?

This is a really enjoyable story! It's sweet to see the gradual build to Nasir and Agron's relationship and how they try to overcome the obstacles set before them. Agron will make you swoon with his sweet and loving words to Nasir, exhibiting his absolute and unwavering devotion. Unfortunately, the story has not updated for a few months, but hopefully Tristansgirl will provide us with an update in the near future. Send her a PM or leave review to let her know how special this story is! :)

~ M

You Can't Change the Past by cbaty

You Can't Change the Past by cbaty

After his car breaks down and he manages to get it to a mechanic, Edward is quite taken aback when the mechanic spews venom his way and treats him like he belongs on the bottom of his shoe. Even though the angry mechanic is incredible to look at, his looks don't excuse his behavior. Edward tries to complain to the manager, but soon discovers that his complaints will fall upon deaf ears.

Frustrated, aggravated and hurt, Jasper lashes out at Edward, who obviously has no recollection of their night together 10 years ago. They were young and different people then, but there was something between them.. No matter how much he enjoyed that night so long ago, he wants to ensure Edward feels the same pain he still feels to this day.

I'm incredibly happy that cbaty is back and writing new fanfiction! This story looks like it's going to be quite interesting and I can't wait to see what happens next! Check it out!

~ M

Fairy Tales by dreamingkate

Fairy Tales by dreamingkate

Three years ago, Blaine was tragically killed in a train accident while on his way to celebrate his engagement to Kurt. Overcome with grief, Kurt moves to Paris where he tries to exist from day to day, all the while continuing to long for the love of his life. When he reads a story about a homeless man in New York who stands on a corner waiting for his fiance, Kurt wonders...could it be Blaine, but he was declared dead and buried with Kurt's heart. Kurt decides to travel back to New York to find out if this mysterious man could be the missing piece to his heart.

This short one-shot was lovely! It is a true fairy tale and will surely bring a smile to your face. Highly recommended!

~ M

Hold You in My Arms by badcaseofcasey

Hold You in My Arms by badcaseofcasey

After transferring colleges, Nasir is dragged to a frat party by his good friend, Chadara, in an effort to get him out of the dorm and amongst actual people instead of books and class notes. Feeling out of place and uncomfortable, Nasir hangs out in the corner and basically watches the scene around him. Due to a traumatic experience at his last school, Nasir has nothing good to say about any fraternity or its members...until Agron walks into his life with dimples blazing and a blinding smile on his face. Will Agron be able to break down Nasir's walls and show him that not all frat brothers are calculating, selfish and uncaring?

Oh my! This is an awesome story! The slow progression of Nasir and Agron's relationship is really sweet to watch, and the gradual chipping away of the armor around Nasir's heart will really bring a smile to you face. I thoroughly enjoyed this story and wish it could have continued even farther.

~ M 

*story artwork created by ciel_vert*

Are You Ready for Me? by chatterboxklaine

Are You Ready for Me? by chatterboxklaine

Blaine is an established Broadway performer and Tony Award-winner who is preparing to embark on his first directing opportunity. While reviewing his script and notes, he decides to grab a bite to eat at a quaint diner known for its employees breaking out into song whenever the mood strikes. When his adorable waiter catches his eye with his good looks and sunny disposition, Blaine is determined to get to know the younger man better...and maybe even audition him for a role in his play.

Sweet, adorable and fluffy, this short story is everything you need for leisure reading on a lazy Saturday afternoon. Unfortunately, the story ended way too soon for my liking, but hopefully chatterboxklaine will write a sequel sometime in the future. I would love to find out what happened between Blaine and Kurt!

~ M

Click by Me and Mrs Jones

Click by Me and Mrs Jones

Edward Cullen is a successful photographer who is in high demand in the fashion world. He and his assistant, Seth, travel the world surrounded by beautiful models. When Seth's cousin and new model, Jacob Black, shows up for a shoot, Edward is immediately taken. He wants to pursue the young man, but Jake is straight and dealing with some serious demons. Will Edward be able to keep things professional or will Jake submit to his growing feelings for the famous photographer?

This story is awesome! All of the characters are so well developed and likable that I wished I could step into the story and hang out with them. Even though a good amount of the story's focus is placed on Jake and Edward, there is a sweet subplot involving Seth and his relationships with his boyfriend, Jasper, and Jake. There are plenty of twists and turns in this story that I know you'll enjoy and I can't wait for the next installment!

~ M

Sacrifice for Love by Jesssy

Sacrifice for Love by Jesssy

Starting at a new school, Blaine encounters all of the obligatory problems: not knowing his way around, trying to fit in amongst strangers, and just trying to graduate. However, he has an added obstacle. Due to a birth defect, he must walk with crutches and his legs never quite work the way he wants. Too much exertions tires him out and he has an overly protective mother who doesn't want him to do much of anything out of fear that he'll be hurt. Blaine soon becomes friends with Kurt Hummel, who tries his hardest to shield him from the ignorance and ugliness of his peers. As their feelings for one another grow stronger, Kurt must face the fact that he can't always be there to protect Blaine, no matter how much he wishes he could.

What a lovely story! Jesssy writes each character, both good and bad, in such a way that you want to cheer for them, hug them or strangle them. Such a variety of feelings were elicited through this story, and I find that to be the sign of a truly great story. Definitely check it out!

~ M

Anywhere You Are Will Do by ciel_vert

Anywhere You Are Will Do by ciel_vert

In this sequel to First Pride, Agron surprises Nasir with a road trip vacation to visit his grandmother for her birthday as well as spend time with Nasir's parents and younger brother. As they drive from Boston to San Diego, they experience highs and lows, seeing both the beauty and ugliness of the United States, but through it all, their love only strengthens and grows.

This is another great story written by ciel_vert for the Spartacus Reverse Big Bang event and it's even better than the last! While First Pride was a fluffy and cute, Anywhere You Are Will Do explores some more serious topics. However, there is plenty of fluff and romance and balance out the angst. Definitely give this story a try!

~ M