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

First Pride by ciel_vert

First Pride by ciel_vert

Nasir and Agron are attending their first Pride together as a couple and are ready for all the ensuing fun and celebration with their friends. Nasir and Agron are living together temporarily for the summer and Agron enjoys the feeling of domesticity. He loves sharing his home, but dreads the day when Nasir has to move back to student housing.

This is a really cute short story that brought a smile to my face. Inspired by the artwork created by disco_mouse for the Spartacus Reverse Big Bang event, First Pride is an easy, fluffy story that will melt your heart and make you chuckle at the same time.

~ M