Sunday, October 30, 2011

Lemons and Lore: Celebrate this Halloween with these Bone Chilling Recs



A few of The Lemonade Stand's sweetest ladies put together a spooky new segment showcasing all of the wonderful supernatural, scary and paranormal twilight fanfiction recs that made their most memorable lists. Be prepared to read tales of time travel, ghosts, alternate universes, dystopian worlds and haunted Victorian houses with the TLS Lemons & Lore features from October 15 and October 20October 25 and todays post as well! 


Bella Swan: Zombie Killer by Kristen Nicole rec'd by Evilnat
http://www.fanfiction.net/s/5491016/1/Bella_Swan_Zombie_Killer
Zombies have taken over the continental United States. Thus sets the backdrop for an epic love story involving a boy, a girl, and her trusty shovel. AU.

She Speaks Fear and Truth by ericastwilight - rec'd by Ryden Dirtay & MzB
http://www.fanfiction.net/s/5434481/1/She_Speaks_Fear_and_Truth
She's haunted daily, but learns to deal with her gift, helping those in need. He hides behind his opinions,seeking closure, barely living. When their worlds collide can they help each other. A story of loss, love and betrayal with a supernatural twist.

Phantasmic by BottledCoke -  rec'd by Ryden Dirtay
http://www.fanfiction.net/s/6724443/1/Phantasmic
After hearing about the "Phantom Doll", Edward can't help but be curious. He falls in love with the figurine and decides to buy it. There's rumors about the doll,how it got its name. It supposedly can move, talk and some former owners even claim it drank

Set in Stone by psyche001 - rec'd by Mzb
http://www.fanfiction.net/s/5569026/1/Set_in_Stone
From within the night's secret shadows,a beautiful winged creature falls for a human girl.She is forbidden fruit in his world but still,he crosses the line to save her life.What happens when their worlds collide & she discovers his horrible fate? AU/M/BXE

Sleepers Awake by Feisty Y. Beden - rec'd by Mzb
http://www.fanfiction.net/s/5118949/1/Sleepers_Awake_Wachet_auf_ruft_uns_die_Stimme
Bella, compulsive sketcher of wolves, has not dreamed in years. Unexpectedly, she begins to dream again the night tragedy takes away her first and greatest love. ExB, sort of.


Spellbound by Claire Bloom - rec'd by MzB
http://www.fanfiction.net/s/5152779/1/Spellbound
Imprisoned by the malicious James, Edward meets the bewitching Isabella. As he battles with his enemies, his conscience and his bloodlust, he finally falls for her whilst she ignites his male desire's & awakens his Vampiric cravings. With Vamps/AU

Under Your Spell by twiXlite - rec'd by Mzb
http://www.fanfiction.net/s/5226142/1/Under_Your_Spell
The Cullens, Hales and Swans are the oldest and most respected families in the small island town of Forks. What happens when the rest of the town discovers a secret they've kept hidden for centuries, threatening everything they've worked to build? AH/AU

Meet the Poll: what we're reading this week, in TLS


Breaking by OhMyWord-rec'd by A White Blank Page

Each week, the ladies of TLS bring a list of what we are reading and enjoying to you. In order to choose which fics we will feature weekly, we allow YOU to choose for us by selecting your favorite choices from our weekly poll.  Please choose FIVE.

http://www.fanfiction.net/s/4984660/1/
It didn't take long to be consumed and I knew we couldn't keep this up forever, but right then, I was in it. All the way. And when each moment with her was everything, how could I possibly think of all the other nothings? Twilight - Rated: M

Exposed by Kdc2239-rec'd by Nic
http://www.fanfiction.net/s/7329957/1/Exposed
An influenza pandemic occurs when a new virus appears against which the human population has no immunity, resulting in epidemics worldwide with enormous numbers of deaths and illness. How will two strangers survive when they only have each other? Twilight - Rated: M

Forever is a Promise You Keep by shelikesthesound-rec'd by Virginia May
http://www.fanfiction.net/s/6433878/1/
Bella loves Edward, much more than she should. Edward is an addict,and Bella deals with it. Years of this cycle begin to take its toll, and Bella is fed up. A near fatal accident forces Edward into a coma while Bella re-examines her previous decision.Twilight - Rated: M

In the Shallows by Porcia-rec'd by A White Blank Page
http://www.fanfiction.net/s/6806523/1/
Everywhere I look, something reminds me of him. Smells, words, colours, songs. For two years I've cried over him. The best thing that's ever happened to me. The love of my life. He left because we were hurting. Because I was in the shallows. Twilight - Rated: M

Just Breathe by jtmd24-rec'd by Jaime Arkin
http://www.fanfiction.net/s/6844825/1/
What happens when the man you've loved for 6 years starts to change right before your eyes? Bella is forced to question her heart when the black sheep of the family returns. In the end, will she put her trust in the right person? AR/OOC/lemons Twilight - Rated: M

Lights by Truthinvienna-Jaime
http://www.fanfiction.net/s/6973570/1/Lights
It's shocking how fast your life can change. Happiness is fleeting, it's true. Dancing was my freedom, now it's a mere memory. A bad memory I can't escape. All I'm left with is insurmountable guilt and a pair of pointe shoes. Twilight - Rated: M

Little Plastic Castle by Lawn Girl-rec'd by A White Blank Page/Jaime Arkin
http://www.fanfiction.net/s/6484653/1/
Even the best built castles sometimes fall. In a coffee shop, in a city...two people struggle to remember how to put those pieces back together. Twilight - Rated: M

No Holds Barred by Jayhawkbb-rec'd by Memphis Lamb/Nic
http://www.fanfiction.net/s/6340870/1/No_Holds_Barred
When Bella opens her dance studio right next to Edward's bar, will Edward hate her...or will he fall for the girl next door? BxE, AH, OOC, rated M for naughty language and behavior.
Twilight - Rated: M

Over the Rainbow by Equivamp-rec'd by Jo Ficfreak
http://www.fanfiction.net/s/5947500/1/Over_The_Rainbow
School's out for the summer and Bella's about to take a journey to the otherside of the rainbow. She knows her Lion, Scarecrow and Tinman in real life, but will her trip over the rainbow be enough to help her find true love? Crossover - Wizard of Oz & Twilight - Rated: M

Plight Thee My Troth by Gingerandgreen-rec'd by Jaime Arkin
http://www.fanfiction.net/s/7353115/1/Plight_Thee_My_Troth
England, 1795. Lord Edward Masen and Miss Isabella Swan promise to love one another for all time; but will the harsh realities of life allow two souls from very different backgrounds to fulfil their vows? EPOV, AH Twilight - Rated: M

Prey for the Wicked by Aleeab4u-rec'd by Jaime Arkin
http://www.fanfiction.net/s/6785758/1/
A vampire finds the true meaning of temptation, an innocent beauty with a siren's blood. Is she prey for the wicked or the answer to a prayer for salvation? When love knows no bounds and obsession has no reason, where do you draw the line? AU/EB Darkward Twilight - Rated: M

Resisting the Inevitable by Emotion Masen-rec'd by Kitty Vuitton
http://www.fanfiction.net/s/7260773/1/Resisting_The_Inevitable
Bella is the cohost on a morning show, Edward is the CEO of his family company,he finds his self extremely attracted to her. Unexpected events keep them near each other. How long can they resist the inevitable? Twilight - Rated: M

Rosebud by Arabella's-rec'd by Jaime Arkin
http://www.fanfiction.net/s/6806825/1/
Millionaire Edward fell quickly for small town Bella, and their dreamy romance soon led to wedding bells. When their new marriage is about to fall apart, Bella goes missing. Edward is determined to search for her, but does Bella want to be found? AU-Human Twilight - Rated: M

The Heart of the Mafia by brigidcullen-rec'd by Kitty Vuitton
http://www.fanfiction.net/s/6974898/1/The_Heart_of_The_Mafia
Hardened mob boss Edward meets innocent and shy law student Bella and is immediately drawn to her. Can he show her love in his world of crime and murder? Will their love survive or will Edward's enemies see Bella as his weekness? OOC/AH BPOV/EPOV Twilight

The Man in Black by Prettykittyartist-rec'd by Remmy
http://www.fanfiction.net/s/6351601/1/The_Man_in_Black
Bella returns to Forks after graduating NYU. She had given up on love, until a gorgeous mechanic walks in to her life and turns it upside down. He falls hard for her but will his secrets tear them apart? EXB AH Twilight - Rated: M

Tides of Fate by SparklingTwilight-rec'd by Aidan Paulmomma
http://www.fanfiction.net/s/5031275/1/Tides_of_Fate
After four years in a bad relationship, and two years of depressed seclusion, Alice and Rosalie drag best friend Bella on a tropical vacation designed by fate. AH OOC. B/E, R/Em, A/J. Rated M for future lemony goodness and occasional strong lang.PLS R&R Twilight - Rated: M

Til I Said It to You by GrayMatters-rec'd by Onebravelamb Fanfiction
 http://www.fanfiction.net/s/7435257/1/Til_I_Said_it_to_You
She's a serial rescuer with a history of adopting strays. He's selfish and arrogant, cut loose by his family to find himself. Will Bella fall for his act, or will Edward find more than he bargained for? AH/OOC M for language & lemons. Twilight - Rated: M

Two of a Kind by Nilla79-rec'd by Kiki TheDreamer
http://www.fanfiction.net/s/7461162/1/Two_of_a_Kind
Bella, 23, and Edward, 25, meet at a social event. As far as appearances go, they couldn't be more different, but they are instantly drawn to each other. Could they really be soul mates? And will the people around them accept their relationship? Twilight - Rated: M

Where She Belongs by Possessed88-C Mybabyblues
http://www.fanfiction.net/s/6991164/1/Where_She_Belongs
Edward Cullen is gifted Isabella Swan as a reward for a job well done. The more time he spends with her, the more he becomes enamored of her. Will he be able to make amends for his behavior and win the girl's heart? Twilight - Rated: M

You Are My Life Now by Ishey-EJ-rec'd by LaMomo
http://www.fanfiction.net/s/6093277/1/You_Are_My_Life_Now
1885- After some tragic accidents Bella is forced to marry a man she does not even know! She hates it but what happens when she sees that it is the attractive Edward Cullen that waits at the end of the aisle. Edward who himself is against this marriage! Twilight

Wednesday, October 26, 2011

TLS Fics of the Week: 10/26 - 11/1- The Fab Five Reviews are up!


Cracks In the Pavement by VampiresHaveLaws - rec'd by Nic
http://www.fanfiction.net/s/6765479/1/Cracks_in_the_Pavement
Life is never perfect, the cracks always appear. "My Polaroid would show the face of a girl who has forgotten how to truly smile." Even the strongest of dreams can fail to become enough.
Twilight - Rated: M

 Review by: Troublefollows Edward

When I read There is a Light (one of the Fics of the Month here on TLS), I thought there would never be another story that would move me as much as that one. One that could stir my emotions just so.

I was wrong.

Cracks in the Pavement by Vampshavelaws is that story. CitP is one of the best stories I have ever read and it is only nine chapters in. I am a VERY picky reader and I don't read very much because it has to be good for me to give up my time. I can honestly say that I have never had such a physical reaction to a story before. I can actually feel my chest tighten and my shoulders tense as I read. If you are a wussperv, this story may not be for you. Angst is high in this one.

Vampshavelaws has created an Edward and Bella who are at a very painful crossroads in their marriage. We readers have no idea what has brought them to this terrible place, and sometimes I get the feeling neither do they. What we do know is that they once were very much in love. Vampshavelaws sends us back in time every chapter, giving us glimpses of what the old Bella and Edward were like. They met in high school when they were fifteen. These two were young and madly in love. Her memories are certainly bittersweet.

"Saturday mornings used to be spent in the best of ways; skin against skin as he moved above me or under me with reverent curses and parted lips. I'd pull him to me so close, fingertips pressed into his back as I met him again and again with eager hips and urgent pleas of, 'don't stop' and repeats of, 'I love you'.


The way he'd gaze down at me with heated expressions—mixed with love and longing—would leave me all the more breathless and enraptured, my heart so full I'd been sure it would burst.


I would plead with silent words as trembles shook my body inside and out, clinging to him as he did the same. We'd lie together in the middle of the bed, our faces just far enough apart to be able to see the other clearly. My fingers would explore his jaw as his hand rested against my heart, feeling just what he did to me.

His expression would let me know he was feeling it just as much, leaving wonder behind in its wake."


I love this Edward a little bit more every time she lets us in on their happier days. She also has written THE BEST marriage proposal ever. EVER. I want to marry this marriage proposal. I’m serious.

But the happy times didn’t last. Bella often looks back and questions why she led with her heart and not her head.

“We married at nineteen without telling anyone. We were young and naïve – stupid. But I was in love…so, so in love. My chest had been full with adoration and impatience to start something that perhaps we weren’t ready for. And now, six years later, I know we weren’t.”


The story begins with Bella and Edward attending a party at Edward’s parents’ home around Christmas time. Immediately we are made aware of how isolated and alone Bella feels even in a room full of people. Vampshavelaws’ writing is so beautiful, it is easy to get swept away by the imagery.

“Our communication has become lost, buried beneath the sand or trapped in that bottle floating out to sea. The longer we leave things unsaid, the further it wanders out of our sight until we can no longer spot the early morning light bounce off the glass as it drifts and drifts and drifts.”


Gah! You can see how Bella feels completely helpless as she watches her marriage dissolve slowly, unravel in her hands. It’s easy to want to blame Edward for what is going on in the present, but I think that’s because we are only in Bella’s head. Bella admits she doesn’t say much out loud. She believes that because she feels so much love for him that he knows that’s how she feels, but in the flashbacks, Vampshavelaws lets us know he really does have a hard time knowing what she’s thinking. I think Edward is hurting just as much as Bella and I can’t wait to find out what got them to this point.

Bella is going to make you mad, too. She feels defeated and tries to stand up for herself the only way she knows how. The way Vampshavelaws describes her pain after Bella makes a huge decision makes my heart hurt.

“Dawn breaks, but the electrifying colours don't last. Ashen skies in heavy slate loom through glass; oyster clouds with a sombre undertone, soot choking the heavens. A chiffon sheer coats the windows, flecks of falling tears, morphing into a river of despair... and I follow it. I let myself be carried away—I don't fight it. I float, waiting, cold, but nothing changes.


I sit and hate myself. I sit and hate him. I sit and wonder if I've made a mistake.
I stand and quickly stop myself from making an even bigger one as I reach for my keys.

It hurts being here without him, my insides torn to shreds; confetti in the shape of paper hearts ripped in two. But there's no celebration—no head tilted to the sky with smiles that blind, no ears full with the sound of cheers.


Nothing hits my cheeks or gets stuck in my hair. There's no hand cupped with mine, pulling me forward through a crowd. It's just hit after hit to pumping red muscle. And all I want to do is scream.


I'm all cried out, clear tracks of once tears coating my cheeks, now as dry as the desert, a writhing pathway of hopes dashed.”


The raw emotion of this story will choke you up every chapter. I wait patiently for the next installment. Always wanting more, more, more. Why did this happen to them? Why aren't they both fighting harder? Why won't they talk to one another? Can't he see her pain? Why can't she see his? When are they going to figure each other out and make this right? So many questions. Warning - this is not a once a week updater. I’m happy to let her take her time between updates because I know she’s creating something worthy of my time and my heartache.

Go read Cracks in the Pavement and tell her Trouble sent you. I promise you she will not disappoint. She might put some cracks in your heart but she will never fail to deliver something amazing.


How to Paint a House by Maggie's Gutter - rec'd by Monica NP
http://www.fanfiction.net/s/7107558/1/How_to_Paint_a_House
Bella Swan is a naive fifteen year old, set to spend another kiss-less summer alone. Edward is new to town, and doesn't know a soul. Watch an unlikely friendship blossom over the simple task of painting a house. But for these two, nothing is simple. Twilight - Rated: M

Review by LaMomo

Do we all remember how it feels like, to be fifteen, going on sixteen, and to be crushing on a guy to the point you're in love, and he's all you see, and yet you have absolutely NO CLUE how to go about it?
There are no clear lines. There are no codes of conduct. Everything is too much. Or too little. Or too soon. Or too late. There is only uncertainty and expectation. There is the thrill of anticipation and agonies of doubt and rejection.
There is the unspeakable limbo of "friendship".
And slowly, you change, things change, he changes…and one day, things fall into place for a brief second. You both become "more" to each other.
And cue a second slew of agony, harrowing doubts, second-guessing and inadequacy in spades.

Still..he is your whole world. You only think and see in absolutes. Meeting him is the best thing that has happened to you. He's the most beautiful, the bravest, the kindest guy you ever met. And he is. Because young love only factors in the absolutes, where feelings are concerned. One moment is misery, the other is bliss.

This is what happens in Maggie's Gutter incredibly sweet and beautifully written tale, How To Paint A House. The usual suspects live in Forks. Charlie Swan wants his house repainted over summer break but he gets his leg broken and is confined indoors for a few weeks. The new addition in town, the doctor's son, Edward Cullen, is recruited for the job. And he shares the task with Charlie's daughter Bella.
Bella is a shy, bookish, socially reclusive teenager on the verge of her 16th birthday, and she's losing her usual footing because her closest friend Angela is going over to the Skank Side.
Edward puts her to work, and lends an ear to her musings. She does the same, because the guy is, after all, the new kid in town, and has no one to talk to. And he has baggage.

Follow these two very closely as they explore their friendship, their companionship, and whatever else is coming their way. Their connection will tug at your heartstrings every single time, and nothing will sound contrived, silly, or overdone. Bella is a faithful portrayal of a 15 year-old girl in love for the first time, and Edward is an adorable tangle of boyish charm going on to a more manly appearance (which doesn't help Bella's plight any), of doubts, guilt over his reckless past, and insecurity about his future.

This is a heartfelt, wonderfully written, evenly paced and emotionally intense journey. It will suck you in, like current while you're going rafting on a nearby river, on a long, hot, end-of-summer day…..


The Port Angeles Players by WriteOnTime - rec'd by Graymatters Fanfiction
http://www.fanfiction.net/s/4917570/1/
New in the town of Forks and eager to please her boss at the university, Bella auditions for a local production of Shakespeare's "Much Ado About Nothing". Her co-star is a handsome but confusing local doctor. Is it curtains-up on love? AU/AH Canon pairing Twilight - Rated: M

Review by OneBraveLamb

The Port Angeles Players is a wonderfully written story by WriteOnTime. It’s witty, charming and sucks the reader in almost instantaneously. At least it did for me.

The story starts off with Bella making a big move with her best friend Alice after a terrible break-up. Bella has been put through the ringer by a younger man and her confidence is severely lacking. Jacob, the younger man in question, was hot and heavy with Bella for a while before abruptly turning on the deep freeze and ignoring Bella completely. Bella ends up feeling like she’s not good enough and is afraid of being hurt again when another man realizes that she’s not worth his time.

So after a while of Bella’s moping and with much persuasion, Alice convinces her that she needs a fresh start and the girls pack up and move to Alice’s home state of Washington. Bella quickly finds a job at a local university where she meets Jasper. They strike up a friendship due to Jasper’s gentlemanly southern manners and laidback personality and things seem to be going well. After dinner with Alice’s mother one evening and agreeing to take leftovers to her father, hilarious hijinks ensue when Bella spots Edward for the first time and nearly gives herself whiplash.

Edward doesn’t hurt himself or anything, but he definitely notices Bella too. But like Bella, Edward is leery of relationships. Only, he’s the jackass that treated his previous girlfriend callously. Before you write him off, you must understand that it wasn’t his intention. With his friend Eric’s help, Edward had no problem with finding a flavor of the week and the women he was with weren’t really interested in commitment either. Edward even started imagining the ladies as famous women and played his role accordingly.

But when Eric decided to settle down with Lauren, Edward panicked. He was accustomed to his flavor of the week sexcapades and if Eric wasn’t going to be there to toss women in his direction, he’d be sorely lacking in that department. When Lauren offered to set Edward up with her friend Tanya, he jumped at the chance. He played his role of Tom Hanks to Tanya’s Darryl Hannah perfectly. So perfectly that Tanya actually fell for him. And by him, I mean Tom Hanks. After asking Tanya to move in, since that was what Eric had done with Lauren, Edward realized that he may have gotten himself into a bit of a mess.

After a pretty horrendous break-up that Edward admits was all his fault, he packed up and moved from Chicago to Washington vowing to become ‘a real boy’ and leave his playboy and asshole ways behind him.

Add in a comical twist of fate, that has Bella auditioning for a production ‘Much Ado about Nothing’ and being offered the role of Beatrice alongside Edward as Benedick, while Edward is struggling to be real and worthy of a person like Bella and you have a cute and funny glimpse into the minds of our favorite couple as they traverse the path of getting to know one another, figuring out how to not only trust each other -but how to trust themselves and ultimately falling in love.

The Port Angeles Players is complete and one of my go to fics if I’ve had a bad day and need a little cheering up. So go on now, read it and fall in love with this story like I did. You won’t regret it.


Thief of Hearts by PattyRose - rec'd by Kitty
http://www.fanfiction.net/s/7415720/1/
FBI Agent Edward Cullen knows the assignment: Go undercover & infiltrate the ring. Bring them down. He doesn't bargain on the mysterious thief who turns the case upside down, or on the mortal danger protecting her will put them both in. E&B OOC  Twilight - Rated: M

Review by Kitty Vuitton

Thief of Hearts by Pattyrose is an action/suspense type story with a romantic twist that has me on the edge of my seat in anticipation of what will happen next. The first chapter is a prologue set in the future and it captivated my attention with the first paragraph. I am instantly pulled into plotline, wondering what the hell has is going on with Edward and what has happened to Bella that makes him so scared that she may not survive.

When I pull my hand away from my head it's coated with bright red blood; slippery and warm. For about five seconds I stare blankly at it before wiping my hand off on my pants and transferring my weapon to my other hand. My head is pounding; I've got a thousand heavy jackhammers digging into my brain insistently. Still, I force myself to keep going. I'm dazed and unsteady on my feet. My vision blurs. I drip blood as I go. But I don't stop. I'll drag myself along on my stomach, slide and slither like a goddamned snake if I have to until I find him. He can't be allowed to leave this place alive. Not if she's to survive.
And she will survive.

The prologue also provides with the fact that Edward is an undercover FBI agent posing as Dr. Anthony Masen. As he is fighting for his life with an unknown assailant, he continues to think about Bella and how he must keep her safe, even if it means losing his life to do so.

No, he never knew her the way I did. No one has ever known her the way I have.
I promised her I'd keep her safe.
"For you Bella," I murmur as I hold the gun with both hands and cock the trigger. "Always for you."
Those are my final thoughts; my final words; just as the gun gets kicked out of my hands…

The next chapter moves us back to the past as we start from the beginning of this adventure. We learn that Edward is going undercover to get to the bottom of what Dr. James Penn and his team are doing. It seems they are testing non-FDA approved drugs on terminally ill patients without letting them know and in the process, draining the patients’ bank accounts as well for their own personal gain. Edward’s job is to become Dr. James’s right hand man, so he can expose and eventually shut down this operation. Bella is a snarky thief who has a run in with Edward while both are breaking into the same hotel room. I love this Bella because she has an attitude and is not afraid to put Edward in his place.

She smirks. The amusement's back. She pretends to look at a non-existent watch on her wrist.

"Doc, doc, doc," – the fine hairs on my arms stand on end at the casual way she addresses me, the way her brown eyes take me in as if they've looked into mine a thousand times before – "while I'd love to stick around and play shrink while you confess all your life's transgressions, I really do have to get out of here. You see, your soon-to-be fuck buddy Kate will be back soon, and while all you have to do to distract her is whip out your bulging manhood and show her that lovely six-pack you've got going on there," – she waves an arm towards my stomach – "I'm afraid I don't have a cock, and my presence in this room would be a bit harder to explain away." She taps her foot lightly on the carpet, as if I'm keeping her from some pressing engagement.

"So if you'll excuse me," she says. Her eyes move to the door and she makes to move past me.

I block her way and without thinking, as I've lacked to do throughout this entire exchange, my hand shoots out to stop her, because there's not a chance in hell I'm letting her out of my sight yet. I grab her just below the elbow and wrap my fingers around her arm.
A thousand sparks flow through my hand, up my arm and into the rest of my body. I look down to where I've touched her to see if I've been shocked by a live-wire. I shudder, and I can swear I feel her do the same. My eyes open wide and I trail them back up to hers, sure I'll see the same shock in them that I'm feeling now. Sure enough, she looks beyond shocked.

She's pissed off.

Of course, Bella runs off after their brief encounter, leaving Edward to wonder who she is exactly, and why does he have this pull to be close to her again. With sexual tension this high, I cannot wait to see just how hot the lemons turn out. The story is only 5 chapters in so far, and Pattyrose is setting up the plotline beautifully, with many twists and turns along the way. I know that I have tried coming up with a few theories on what may happen, and so far each one has failed once a new update has been posted. Thief of Hearts changes POV’s often as well, to provide the readers with a look inside each of the characters minds. I highly recommend starting this story soon as it’s going to be a great ride.

Then he walked out of that bathroom shirtless and with his pants unbuttoned. Out of all the people in that fucking hotel that could've walked in on me, it had to be a half-naked Dr. Masen. I hadn't known whether to run away or help him finish taking the pants off. So I'd just remained frozen to my spot.

And dropped the fucking necklace.

I close my eyes and groan quietly. Even three days later the fact that I didn't get the bitch's necklace still irks me no end. None of the other pieces make up for having lost that one. Well, except for maybe…
I turn and stare emptily at the backs of the first class passengers, remembering the feel of Dr. Masen's mouth on mine. A warm tingle goes up my spine.

I'm convinced he hypnotized me with those unbelievably green eyes of his. They must be learning some voodoo on top of everything else in that medical team. That's the only explanation for why I'm dreaming about him day and night for the past few days.

I still don't know where I found the strength to pull away from that kiss.
That goddamned kiss. What the fuck was I thinking? I wasn't thinking, that was the problem.

World's Most Dangerous Dad by Denverpopcorn - rec'd by Ryden Dirtay / Nic
http://www.fanfiction.net/s/7453090/1/Worlds_Most_Dangerous_Dad
Edward Cullen leads a double life: Doting dad and devoted husband by day, special-op Navy SEAL by night. What happens when the government's number one gun is forced to balance work and diapers? Life's a bitch and then you kill someone. E/B, vignettes.
Twilight - Rated: M

Review by Shahula

Let’s face it we all love a good lemon. We want them hot, tangy, and often. We want our B&E going at it often and with vigor, as soon as we can get it. And then we want more lemons in each succeeding chapter.
I love reading lemons just like the rest of you, but nothing can spoil a good lemon faster for me than being interrupted mid, ahem, squeeze. Imagine the frustration the characters must feel when it’s happening to them every time they attempt to get down and dirty in a story.
This is what is happening to Edward and Bella when we first meet them in WMMD. And sadly, keeps happening.
The phone rings again and he can't help curse out another, "Fucking, Renee." But in his state it comes out breathy, like it would be a pleasure to fuck his...
"Stop...saying...that," gasps the voice under the pillow. He uncovers a smile under the ponytail stuck to her cheek with sweat. He kisses the side of her mouth.
A few more passes, he thinks.
There's stirring in his belly, and there's stirring from the other side of the baby monitor.
Oh no. Not now.
"The baby," she says, rising.
Don't get up, my honeypot. Don't...
"Edward, the baby's waking up."
A few more grunts; his eyes are closed. When he was younger, he'd have been done and in the other room with the baby by now, but he's older, he found a gray hair on his chest the other day telling him so. He wants to blame work, but maybe he's simply getting old.
Edward," she pushes her ass up, forcing him to lift on his forearms.
Ass up, just like on his birthday.
But it's too late, she's pushed him off completely, mid-coitus, and it hurts like a son of a bitch.
If you’re looking for a blend of intrigue, humor, real life, and a dash of mystery, WMDD is right up your alley. It’s sexy and dangerous, but frustrating and hilarious at the same time
Denverpopcorn has created a lovely collection of vignettes of our favorite couple, giving us a taste of their life in each chapter. She has an incredible gift with words, and uses it brilliantly in this story. Weaving together the daily life of a dad devoted to his wife and kids, along with the dangerous, thrilling life of a Navy SEAL. The kicker is Edward’s life as a deadly assassin is a total secret from his family. They think he is a salesman! I can just picture Edward ready to explode with piss and vinegar when other men try to ‘show him up’ with incredible work stories and he has to remain passive and talk about insurance.
Edward even struggles to remember this himself at times when he’s feeling less assassin-like and more like a bumbling father.
"You don't take shit from anyone. You're classified, you're a Navy Seal, a top-secret agent. You've shot to kill. And you've taken a shot at a lot of assholes."
For the next five minutes he keeps up the inner-rally, reminding himself that he's not just an insurance salesman. He is an undercover agent that his wife knows nothing about. He's living two lives, both honorable, both noteworthy.
When he isn't asked to pick paint chips, that is.
He hangs his head. "Sometimes, I wish I could just tell her."
For what? How would that change anything?
The history of the couple is touched on but you understand that what Denverpopcorn is trying to do here isn’t give an elaborate story filled with angst and drama but a glance at life, and all that goes with it. She hasn’t ignored building mystery (she is a master at that, after all) but we aren’t focused on the who, what, where, and why. Instead, we are much more interested in seeing if this hot, older Edward is ever going to get to finish his lemon treat with his wife.
Personally, I can’t wait to see it happen. Or almost happen again.
Happy Reading,
Shahula

Monday, October 24, 2011

Lemons and Lore: Get your spook on here, with these haunting recs!




A few of The Lemonade Stand's sweetest ladies put together a spooky new segment showcasing all of the wonderful supernatural, scary and paranormal twilight fanfiction recs that made their most memorable lists. Be prepared to read tales of time travel, ghosts, alternate universes, dystopian worlds and haunted Victorian houses with the TLS Lemons & Lore features from October 15 and October 20, and todays post as well! Stay tuned for our next feature on October 30, 2011 at midnight!


The Dollhouse by Kambria Rain - rec'd by Obsmama Arkin
http://www.fanfiction.net/s/5064271/1/The_Doll_House
We were all going to die. I used to be an optimistic person, but that went out the window as soon as the hot mountain man decided we were going to hunt the hunters. AH. Warning: So far, there are minor character deaths, and Edward's a little scary.

The Emperors of Washington by gallantcorkscrews - rec'd by Edmazing Cullen
http://www.fanfiction.net/s/5337013/1/
Edward is a killer. But it can't be explained away by his vampire nature. He's just a sociopathic, human teenager. CAN I MAKE A LOVE STORY OUT OF THIS? ExB.

The Mask of Red Death by Jessiechreesie - rec'd by Edmazing Cullen
http://www.fanfiction.net/s/5248764/1/The_Masque_of_the_Red_Death
Her blood would be mine. As would she. Once she begged, pleaded, demanded, and wept for my bite. And she would. The only question was how many would die first." Vampire AU. Mature audiences only. NO sexual abuse.


Leaves of Grass by Nauticalmass - rec'd by Mzb
http://www.fanfiction.net/s/6555315/1/Leaves_of_Grass
After returning from Italy, Bella's not sure if she can still love Edward. The next morning, she awakens in an unimaginable time and place: Houston, 1862. When she encounters a member of the Cullen family as a human, how far will she follow her heart? B/J

The Mirrors by adorablecullens- rec'd by MzB 
http://www.fanfiction.net/s/4971734/1/
Teddy's secret and magical childhood is lost when a family heirloom is destroyed, changing his life forever. Now an adult, can Edward open himself back up to magic and love when he meets a beautiful - and hauntingly familiar - woman in real life?

Only Human by Amethyst Jackson - rec'd by MzB
http://www.fanfiction.net/s/4293411/1/Complete.
A wish sends Bella back in time to Chicago, 1918, and to a human Edward. This story is baby-free.

Meet the Poll - What we're reading in TLS this week:

MEET THIS WEEK'S POLL NOMINEES AND BE A PART IN DETERMINING WHICH FIVE WE WILL FEATURE NEXT WEEK, BY VOTING FOR YOUR FAVORITES.


And Everything Twice by StarKai88-rec'd by LaMomo/Kitty Vuitton
http://www.fanfiction.net/s/7121743/1/
Bella is young, sarcastic, and a single mother to twins Brady and Lola. Edward is a young, charming, 3rd grade teacher who likes to read in the park on Saturdays. "Do you normally make a habit of hanging upside-down on the monkey bars, Miss Swan?" Twilight - Rated: M

Arms by VirginiaMay-rec'd by Nic
http://www.fanfiction.net/s/7155134/1/Arms
After witnessing the brutal murder of her parents, sharpshooter & former Olympian Bella Swan is forced to live under a new identity as a high school student in tiny Forks, WA. Will unexpected feelings for the wrong man be her undoing or her salvation? AH Twilight - Rated: M

Arrangement by QuantumFizzx-rec'd by Jaime Arkin/Nic
http://www.fanfiction.net/s/7458576/1/Arrangement
A hired-hand holds back her improper emotions, a son tries to honor an old arrangement, & a father makes new arrangements for reasons of his own. Maybe doing to noble thing isn't always the right thing. Twilight - Rated: M

Break Even by TwiStarJunkie-rec'd by Teresa Harman
http://www.fanfiction.net/s/6197471/1/Break_Even
After a troubled five year relationship, Bella Swan is left a broken and abandoned single mother. With the help of her best friend, Edward, she finds her way through but when long kept hidden feelings come into play, things take a tragic turn. Twilight - Rated: M

Breaking News by WriteOnTime-rec'd by Wonderfully Bedazzled
http://www.fanfiction.net/s/5424559/1/Breaking_News
Two network news anchors. One desk. In a race to get the story, love might become the headline - if they don't kill each other first. AU/AH Canon Couples, smart people, particle physics, and tap dancing. Twilight - Rated: M

Empty Bloom by ineedyoursway-rec'd by Edmazing
http://www.fanfiction.net/s/7467739/1/Empty_Bloom
Edward Cullen is insatiable. EPOV Twilight - Rated: M


Losing Game by Mrs. Robward-rec'd by Tracy
http://www.fanfiction.net/s/6897663/1/Losing_Game
Sometimes even winners lose. The story of a winner boy and a loser girl. When the game is over, who will walk away defeated? M for high school drama, drinking, drugs, bad language, and... stuff. AH  Twilight - Rated: M

Once and Future Lovers by littlesecret84-rec'd by Nic
http://www.fanfiction.net/s/6996824/1/once_and_future_lovers
He told me once that he preferred brunettes, but his fingers were always playing with long, blonde strands. He could never make up his mind... until he did. And now that I'm back I don't think he deserves a second chance. Twilight - Rated: M

Paper Cutouts by twistedcoincidence-rec'd by Teddy nine'Yesa
http://www.fanfiction.net/s/5993964/1/Paper_CutOuts
Bella prefers the virtual to the actual, but feels herself being tugged from the safety of her online realm into the world of a rough edged Edward. This time she'll write her own story. Collab with astilbe13 AH/AU Twilight - Rated: M

Perfectly Imperfect by Lindsay520-rec'd by Teresa Harman
http://www.fanfiction.net/s/7366855/1/Perfectly_Imperfect
Bella is a socially awkward loner. Edward is lost in a meaningless marriage. Co-workers of a moving company, several long road-trips and lonely motel nights alone start a bond between them that may be stronger than either of them had ever expected. AH Twilight - Rated: M

Pocket Change by A White Blank Page-rec'd by Nic/Jaime Arkin
http://www.fanfiction.net/s/7122044/1/Pocket_Change
I know of three kinds of change: the kind that jangles around in your pocket, the kind that happens slowly, every moment of every day, and the kind that blows you away in an instant.
Twilight - Rated: M

Red by 22blue-rec'd by Obsmama
http://www.fanfiction.net/s/6224459/1/Red
Winner in the Beyond the Pale Contest. BxE, OOC, Rated M for mature themes and explicit content. "As she walked by, he imagined traces of her lipstick left on his neck… then his stomach and..."  Twilight - Rated: M

Set Fire to the Rain by SunshineGal3-rec'd by Dragonfli
http://www.fanfiction.net/s/7056954/1/Set_Fire_to_the_Rain
A woman whose job is to bring people back from the brink of self-destruction. An alcoholic who prefers his addiction to facing his demons. Everyone has given up on him...everyone but her.
Twilight - Rated: M

Soulmate by tinaababy-rec'd by Mina Rivera
http://www.fanfiction.net/s/6217228/1/Soulmate
Edward Masen is a single father, ex-con, and an ex drug user. He and his child move to Forks for a fresh start. Bella Swan is a straight edge, young woman. When these two people meet, the attraction is inexplicable. AH/M. Twilight - Rated: M

Summerboy by Little Miss Mionie-rec'd by Minna Koda
http://www.fanfiction.net/s/6666188/1/Summerboy
Every summer vacation, Edward was Bella's annual secret escape. At school, Bella can't hide from the whispers that she deserved what happened during "the incident". Her summery and wintry worlds collide. AH, Edward/Bella Twilight - Rated: M

The Princess and the E by CLWN-rec'd by Kitty
http://www.fanfiction.net/s/6920528/1/The_Princess_and_the_E
When Bella meets the mysterious 'E' he calls her his Princess and she's soon drawn into his dangerous world of organised crime. But this is no fairytale, so when Edward finds himself in trouble, it's up to his Princess to save him. OOC/AH. ExB AxJ RxEm. Twilight - Rated: M

The Work Boyfriend by Juliaaaah-rec'd by Jaime Arkin
http://www.fanfiction.net/s/5471917/1/
Happily married Bella falls hard for a new coworker. Can she hide those feelings away to cultivate an intense, jovial friendship? "...I was tiptoeing precariously along the warm gulf waters of my very own awakening." AH/AU. angstypants, bad cubicle humor. Twilight - Rated: M

Through His Eyes by RedSummer-rec'd by Suebee Betafairy
http://www.fanfiction.net/s/6275201/1/
'I should have known better than to bet against Alice.' Edward's first encounter with Bella ignites both thirst and lust. Conflicted and confused he turns to the only person who knows him better than he knows himself for answers. Twilight - Rated: M


Thursday, October 20, 2011

Lemons and Lore: spooky recs to get you in the mood for the spooky season!



On October 15, a few of The Lemonade Stand's sweetest ladies put together a spooky new segment showcasing all of the wonderful supernatural, scary and paranormal twilight fanfiction recs that made their most memorable lists. Be prepared to read tales of time travel, ghosts, alternate universes, dystopian worlds and haunted Victorian houses with the TLS Lemons & Lore features 10/15, 10/20, 10/25 & 10/30/2011.



Osa Bella by Myg - rec'd by Kitty Vuitton & MzB
http://www.fanfiction.net/s/6038733/1/bOsa_b_bBella_b
Bella is a school counselor, but Edward is a vampire posing as a student. Will Bella defy her head and follow her heart? Or will she conquer her desire and do what she believes is right? Not your daughter's/niece's/little sister's Twilight. Angsty.


Haven by mmsinful - rec'd by Ryden Dirtay
http://www.fanfiction.net/s/6774285/1/
Bella and Alice have survived everything together, including the infected. How much longer can they survive on their own. Can they trust anyone else they meet on the way? Warning: graphic violence, death, dark themes. Rated M. cannon, ExB

Review by Ryden Dirtay
"Haven" is a thrilling new story by mmsinful. This Horror/Fantasy fic is one that will have you biting your nails and sitting on the edge of your seat. A virus spreads across the world, with a mutating gene, causing.....you guessed it, the dreaded "Z" word. Zombies. I recommend reading in daylight hours or with the lights on. I've had nightmares on numerous occasions from this gem. Fic is a work in progress and does contain some adult/dark themes.  Enter if you dare.

Haunted by AfutureCullen - rec'd by Ryden Dirtay
http://www.fanfiction.net/s/4424682/1/Haunted
Bella Swan, a noted paranormal investigator, is called to check out the "Ghost Haven" that is Edward Cullen's house. Can she, along with Edward, defeat what is tormenting Edward in his own house? AU

Collapse the Universes by Fantasy Mother - rec'd by MzB
http://www.fanfiction.net/s/6617304/1/Collapse_the_Universes
A sequel to Across the Universes. Years later a message shows up, the Volturi Brothers get involved, and to everyone's surprise they realize destruction of the journal has not stopped the madness. B&E, and others, Rated M for Lemons and future content.

The Ripper by HeartOfDarkness - rec'd by Suebee0691
http://www.fanfiction.net/s/7209045/1/The_Ripper
Edward, a nomad killer vampire, alone for more than three centuries, comes upon his next prey in the form of talk back radio psychologist and dabbler in the dark side of human nature, Bella Swan.  Darkward, kinky Bella.  Rated M for violence/lemons.

In The Stars by Wings of Deire - rec'd by MzB
http://www.fanfiction.net/s/6824570/1/In_the_Stars
Trying to help her best friend, Bella finds herself the center focus in a long and ancient battle. OOC/AU


Isle ESME 2412 by Bower of Bliss - rec'd by MzB
 http://www.fanfiction.net/s/6856090/1/Isle_ESME_2412
A typical holiday romance? Bella gets away from it all by going to a tropical paradise. Girl meets boy, girl falls in love with boy... boy doesn't actually exist. What? This is a journey into a strange, dystopian world where all is not what it seems. AU

Kiss Me Now, Kiss Me Never by ericastwilight - rec'd by MzB
http://www.fanfiction.net/s/5401876/1/Kiss_Me_Now_Kiss_Me_Never
A curse spanning generations. For one, unrequited love. For the other, all consuming hate. Together can they break it? OCC/AH

Wednesday, October 19, 2011

TLS Fics of The Week 10/19 - 10/25/2011- The Fab Four

The Lemonade Stand is proud to support any and all types of stories. We pride ourselves on bringing you a variety of recs, which includes non-canon pairings and slash as well. We are all unique, therefore there is something here for everyone. If you don't find what you're looking for on our Award Winning Fics Page, or the TLS Recommended Reading Links below on the sidebar, then be sure to visit our sister sites! We have an AMAZING list of Affiliates that all offer up wonderful fic recs as well.

To each and everyone of you that take the time to read and rec for this blog, thank you. To all of you writers out there that we adore, thank you for your stories. To all newcomers and visitors, thank you for stopping by.

Each week, you choose which fics move you the most. Here are your four FANTASTIC Fics of the Week, this week, at The Lemonade Stand.


Air by Rochelle Allison
http://www.fanfiction.net/s/6817781/1/Air
Edward and Bella meet at a summer barbeque. A story about - what else - falling for someone, hard. Once a WitFit. Twilight - Rated: M
Review by: SueBee0619

Rochelle Allison wrote one of my all time favorite fics, “Volition”, so when someone suggested “Air” when I was looking for a good, non-angsty read, I jumped at it.  I don’t know what I was expecting, but I devoured this lovely fic that night.

What I love the most about “Air” is that it depicts the first year of a realistic adult relationship between Edward, 29 and established in his career and his way of life, and a younger Bella (19) just figuring things out.  They meet fairly awkwardly at a birthday party for Edward’s sister and, in a fit of braveness, Bella has one of Edward’s brothers invite him along to go hang out afterwards.  I was already drawn into the story, but the description at the end of chapter one put me right in the moment and made me even more invested in what was going to happen with the two of them. Reading it, I could almost feel the summer air on my skin and the anticipation between the two of them.

He looked at me and walked over, his expression different than before.

Accessible.

We all began to walk then, meandering and happy and summertime-free, Rose riding by in loops, her bicycle glinting in the moonlight.

Edward and I didn't talk. We just walked side by side, stealing glances, catching smiles.

Besides the wonderful descriptions, what I really love about this fic is that the relationship just feels real. There is no drama for drama’s sake, there is simply two people trying to figure out how they fit together.  And with so many fics that rely on miscommunications and misunderstandings as the basis of the story, this is a couple that actually talks to each other.  Although Bella is intimidated to speak up at first, Edward guides her until she is comfortable.  I love this exchange between them, early in their relationship:

"You were pissed off at me last night," he said, his eyes locked with mine.

"I was…" Emotional. Horny. Lonely. Disappointed. "Tired."

"Don't do that. Don't play games. If you were angry with me just say it." His voice never rose.

"Okay, I was mad. Just a little bit. I wanted to see you." I ducked my head and sat down, careful to keep my legs closed in this silly little get up.

"I wanted to see you too."

And then later, we get to see how far she’s progressed.

We'd been together for awhile now. I always felt so vulnerable with him and yet, he always made it easy to talk. For as quiet as we both were in general, as used to and appreciative of companionable silence as we both were, he tended to bring the words out of me. And I sensed I brought the words out of him, too. I could tell him anything. I felt compelled to.

I trusted him.

In the deepest, most serious way, I trusted him. With the non linear-ness of my thought patterns and the nuances of every feeling. It was like he was teaching me to peel back the layers of emotional armor I'd grown used to wearing for protection. Every day relationships; they wore on a girl. Having to look and act right, maintain, not wanting to upset things, wanting it all to go right with the guy. The game.

We all played it.

He and I had played it, the first time we'd met.

But it just wasn't necessary anymore. He'd already told me he wanted my thoughts.

So I gave them to him.

And neither is made out to be perfect, either. But the way Bella describes how Edward takes care of her is just lovely and perfect and real. Yes, I know I keep saying “real” but, to me, that is an amazing thing to find in a fic and that believability is what struck me over and over again while reading.

"You pay your dues. I'll pay for dinner," he said.

And that was fine.

I liked the way he took care of me.

It wasn't typical gentlemanly type stuff.

He didn't open my door for me or pull out my chair. Sometimes he was still late, even though he'd gotten better. His bed was chronically unmade from sleeping and sex. There were blueprints and contracts covering the coffee table and multiple projects he had going in every corner. And tools, everywhere.

He wasn't clean cut and GQ.

But he got me. In the silences and the conversations, in the presence and the absence, he got me.

When I told him I'd finished reading a book I loved he'd gone out and found the sequel. Without fanfare. I found it in my messenger bag later the next day.

When we walked down the sidewalk he kept me on the inside, putting himself between me and the road. The only other guy ever to do that was my dad.

While you’re reading “Air” you are watching slices of a couple’s life in their first year together; watching them figure each other out and how to communicate and connect.  The writing is lovely and there is something about the quiet love these two show each other that touches my heart each and every time I read it.  Every single time (and I think I’m on my fourth go), I’ve teared up at the tenderness, acceptance, and love they each have for each other.

Go read “Air”. Your heart will thank you.


Comp Sem 101 by bornonhalloween
http://www.fanfiction.net/s/7038055/1/Comp_Sem_101
What happens when a scholarship athlete and an English major from opposite coasts meet in a freshman writing seminar? Will they be drawn together or forced apart by their weekly discoveries of themselves and each other? All human college coeds!
Twilight - Rated: M
Review by: Twific Crackmum

I have to preface this review by saying that I am a big sap. I love stories about teenage Edward and Bella finding first love with each other. I love the awakening of  those first feelings of attraction. I love the slow burn of new love. I love the voyage of discovery as emotions and desires emerge. I love the angst as mistakes of the past and present collide, and I REALLY love when love overcomes all the obstacles and I get my HEA. As I said, I’m a sap. When I find all of these things in one story, I’m a really happy sap. You get all of this and more in bornonhalloween’s beautiful story CompSem 101.

The story opens with the new freshmen arriving at Holden University at the start of the academic year. Edward is the star golfer on a sports scholarship, who already has older brother Emmett (star footballer and senior) to help him out. Edward has been paired with Jasper as his room-mate, as he is also attending Holden on a golfing scholarship. Bella is a freshman too, and has been paired with Rosalie as her room-mate..

This Bella is our usual book loving English major with a twist - rather than being the “slip of a girl” that we are used to, this Bella is a larger girl - 190 lbs to be precise. After a potentially disastrous introduction to college life where Bella is humiliated at frat party, she decides to take charge of her life, and her weight, with Rose’s help. What Bella doesn’t realise is that Edward witnessed the debacle and is secretly upset that he didn’t “do the right thing” and step in to help when she needed it.

Both the kids are in the same Composition Seminar 101. The course is naturally a breeze for Bella, but Edward is dyslexic and requires some assistance. The two are paired together as partners in the course, and from there they slowly develop a friendship. Through the weekly writing tasks that they are required to do, and the peer reviews that they conduct on each other’s essays, they slowly learn more about each other. Against this backdrop, Bella begins a diet and exercise program and starts losing weight and Edward begins his competition golfing program and goes “on the road” to tournaments.

Jasper and Edward attract a lot of  female attention when the play (who knew there was such a thing as golf groupies!) and Edward makes a less than chivalrous decision regarding one of the girls whilst playing an away tournament. This comes back to bite him in a big way later in the story.  The friendship between Bella and Edward continues to grow, and Edward invites Bella to practice with him early in the mornings. This leads to a blossoming relationship. At the same time, as she begins to lose weight and become fitter, Bella begins to attract the attention of other guys, and gets asked out on some dates. The “Green-eyed Monster” comes out in Edward, as he struggles to understand what his feelings for Bella really are:

"I'm going out with Connor Saturday night. Actually, we're staying in. His housemates are having a party."
'Staying in' with a previously declared hot guy in his own house, where there are sure to be alcohol and loosened inhibitions. I can't mask my disappointment this time. "Oh," is all I can muster.
Bella pivots and puts her hand on my arm. "Edward, he asked me early last week. This is awkward, right?"
"No, I get it. It's fine."
"Yeah? You're okay with this?"
"As long as you promise me one thing."
"What's that?" she asks.
"Miss me while I'm gone?"
Her smile fills across her face without any effort. "I don't think that'll be a problem."
"Well, just in case," I say, dropping all the balls down and taking hold of her face, "let me just remind you what you're supposed to be missing."
I feel a little gasp as Bella figures out what is about to happen. Right there on the putting green, I give Bella a knock-down, drag-out kiss. The kind you can feel right down to your toes. There is no uncertainty in this kiss; it isn't the starry night, come in gently and leave her wanting more, kiss. No, this is a sun's coming up and right here in broad daylight, I am kissing the stuffing out of you, kiss.

 There are a lot of ups and downs in this story - you feel bad for both Bella and Edward with some of the decisions they make, and the miscommunication that ensues, but when these guys finally get together it makes your heart glad.  This Edward is delightfully romantic and very patient with Bella, who is naturally very inexperienced.  Their physical relationship moves forward very slowly, and the UST in this story is just about incendiary - which is entirely appropriate given that Edward is Bella’s first ever boyfriend.

And I feel no less guilty when my thoughts automatically reroute themselves to Bella's body. In much the same order. Soon, my cock is positively banging against my zipper and I'm going to have to do something about it.
I try drawing her attention downward to test the waters. "He says, 'You're welcome.'"
Her eyes flick down, as I suspected they might, and her smile gets just a smidgen darker.
"You know, it's not really fair," I tell her.
"What isn't'?"
"That you can see exactly what you do to me, and you're all hidden away."
Even though the room is mostly dark, I see the blush color her face. "A girl's gotta be entitled to her secrets."
I reach out two fingers and tuck away the few strands of hair blocking my view of her hot cheeks. "You sure you don't want to tell me your secrets, Bella?"
She nods her head gently and whispers, "Not yet."
I immediately bring my lips to hers and kiss her with all I've got. Anchoring my nose right up against hers, I tell her, "That's fine, Sweetheart. I am happy to wait."
She whispers again, closing her eyes with relief, "Thank you, Edward."

One thing I found particularly delightful about this story was the fact that bornonhalloween revealed in her review replies to me that the this story is semi autobiographical. Here is a snippet from one of her replies (hope you don’t mind boh!):

This is MY love story, my husband and I met freshman year, lived
upstairs/downstairs from each other, took classes together, experienced this same innocent journey. Though some details have shifted in time and quality (my weight loss was senior year of high school, the 'past' was a smaller range, etc) the growing feelings for each other and the way the characters wrap themselves around each other's lives are similar.

 How gorgeous is that! I totally swooned when I realised that there was some truth in the words of this story - it just makes it all the more special for me. Yeah - I know - I’m a sap! Of course, Edward and Bella do go “all the way” eventually, but not before some delightful wooing and indepth planning for the big event. This story is just so sweet, and the dialogue is wonderful. All the secondary characters are really well developed. All-in-all it is simply a terrific read that will leave you swooning and sighing at the end. You’ll want to say GIMME!


An Undefined Affair by jayhawkbb
http://www.fanfiction.net/s/6009627/1/An_Undefined_Affair
Bella, recovering from a broken heart, meets Edward, who isolates himself emotionally. Their attraction is immediate, but can they be friends and lovers - without the love? BxE, all the regs, some drama, some funny, lemony, language AH.
Twilight - Rated: M


Review by Surething302

An Undefined Affair by Jayhawkbb is one of my favorite fic’s of all time. It’s just an all around feel good fic.  There is romance, humor and just a little angst as well. Jayhawkbb leaves you wanting more when the chapter ends and she gives us the best nickname for our beloved Edward and Bella ever, Stella and Ned. These two hold such a special place in my heart. If you are not reading this then shame on you because you're missing a great time.

Bella is 26 yeasr old and working for her two best friends, Jasper Whitlock and Emmett McCarty. She has a business meeting with Hale Software, where she meets Edward Cullen, Executive Vice-President. Edward seems to be an asshole but we soon find out he is not. I've inserted a snippet so that you can see how their first meeting goes:

"Ms. Swan, it's a pleasure to meet you. I'm Edward Cullen," he says. Oh, hell. Again? Damn girl parts. Stand down! Stand down! Just because a man speaks to us with a voice so sexy that it makes us want to rip our clothes off and roll around on satin sheets, we do not release the cream! At this rate, my well will run dry before I even meet any hot boys tonight. But, yeah…totally worth it.

"Mr. Cullen, it's nice to meet you, too. Please call me Bella," I say, smiling at him. He doesn't return the smile. He also doesn't say anything resembling 'call me Edward or Eddie or Ned or Teddy'. Semi-asshole status preliminarily confirmed.

I finally reach his desk and extend my right hand to meet his, grasping it firmly before letting go quickly because I swear to God he's got one of those gag hand buzzers hidden in his palm. I felt a freaking current shoot up my arm, take a sharp turn at my shoulder, whiz by both boobs (hello, highbeams) and electrocute my girl parts. They are stunned into silence.

Thankfully, Jane returns then with bottled water for each of us. She tells us that Mr. Hale called to say he wouldn't make it back for the meeting at all, but hopes to meet with me soon. We both say thanks – mine sounded genuine, his dismissive – and she quickly exits the office, shutting the door behind her and leaving me here with Mr. White Lightning.

"Sit," he barks at me in that silken, baritone voice.

I remain standing, tilting my head slightly to the side and lifting one eyebrow at him.

"Please sit down, Bella," he corrects. It doesn't escape my attention that he did not apologize for speaking to me like a dog.

I take a deep breath and sit down, though, reminding myself that this could be a huge client for our firm. The firm has grown so much in its first four years, and I've been there for all of it. I got to know Jasper and Emmett both during college even though they are two years older than me. They were friends of my old roommate's boyfriend, and the three of us spent many nights drinking cheap beer and watching movies while waiting for Mike and Jessica to either make up or break up from their latest fight. I was really sad when they graduated – well, not Mike; he was an idiot.

Then, the summer before my senior year in college, I interned at the advertising firm where Jasper and Emmett both worked and I guess they were impressed – enough that when they started their own company the next year, they asked me to work for them. They are like the big brothers I never had. Well, Emmett is like the big brother I never had. Jasper is more like the big brother's hot friend who I made out with a few times during college, but who is now truly just a friend.

I hastily open my water and take a sip before pulling out the proposal Emmett and I prepared for this meeting. I hand Mr. Cullen his copy and start to go over some of the details.

"I'm able to read, Bella," he says brusquely, cutting me off mid-sentence, not even bothering to glance my way as he interrupts.

Then read this, dickhead, I think, flipping him off as he continues looking down at the papers on his desk.

"Of course, Mr. Cullen. Would you prefer to read through it on your own and then go over any questions you have together?" I ask politely, recovering from my momentary lapse into immaturity.
"Yes. And I'd also prefer it if you didn't flip me the bird while I'm trying to do it," he says, smirking slightly, but still not looking up at me. I chuckle quietly in spite of myself.

"Of course, sir," I answer, erasing the smile from my face and replacing it with a look of complacence. He lifts his head up, meets my gaze for a moment, lifts both eyebrows at me, then looks back down at the proposal.

After a few minutes of silence, broken only by Ned – or whatever name he answers to – turning the pages as he reads, I reach down to grab my phone, quickly switching it to silent mode. I read through my new emails, answering them quickly if I need to, and then am tempted to play a game. Ned is not paying attention to me anyway.

I open up SkyBurger, holding my phone down as far as I can so he hopefully won't notice me tilting my phone to the left and right to catch the burger toppings. Stupid Emmett, getting me hooked on this stupid game. I have completed five burgers when Ned starts talking again.

"You are extraordinarily distracting, Bella. Do you know that?" he asks as he continues reading.
"How so, Mr. Cullen?" I ask.

Well, you're clearly playing some game over there while you are sitting in a business meeting – a business meeting at a software company, I might add. I am not only distracted by your constant movement, but also extremely curious to know what game has so wholly captured your attention," he says, turning another page.

I believe these two have so much chemistry from the first time they meet but there is a kicker. Here’s a peak...


"Bella, you're beautiful, intelligent, funny. There would be a thousand guys lined up to date you if you'd let them. You deserve that – to have a guy who can love you passionately. That's why I'm hesitant to ask you if you want to continue with me – because I can't give you those things," Edward says softly, looking down at our joined hands on his leg.


"I don't want those things. I want no-strings, fun, sexy times. If we continue this," I say, pausing to wave my hand between us again like I did last night in the cab, "I don't expect or want any of that hearts and flowers crap from you. You know, if we want to hang out, see each other, we can. If one of us is busy, no big deal. The only thing I don't want is to be one of the harem. If there are going to be other women, I'm out."

"There won't be anyone else," he says, looking back up and gazing at me with those intense green eyes.

"Well, if we're really going to do this, I think we should agree to be completely honest, then, and if one of us wants out, no hard feelings. If one of us meets someone else or something. I promise I will be honest with you. You can trust me," I say, feeling tingly all over that he wants to continue having hot, crazy sex with me.

"I promise I will be honest with you, too. And you can trust me," he says, smiling crookedly at me.
"So we agree? Monogamous fucking until one of us calls it off?" I ask.

"Agreed," he answers, leaning in to kiss me again.



It surely seems like Bella and Edward have an arrangement. Can they have a sexual relationship with no strings attached or will they fall in love? Read An Undefined Affair to find out and leave Jayhawkbb some love. She is a very talented author and I love her to death, I think you will too.



Branching Inward by LifeInTheSnow
http://www.fanfiction.net/s/6372008/1/
He's a brilliant, sensual, tactile artist with a huge personality and love for life...at least, he used to be. She's a shrewd historian, content to observe from a distance...until now. At Newcoven College in Clearwater, OH, no secret is safe. All Human. Twilight - Rated: M
Review by: Evilnat

Branching Inward by LifeInTheSnow is one of my absolute favourite twilight fanfics.

It is an incredible love story about Bella, a historian who moves from Phoenix to take a job at Newcovern College in a small town called Clearwater in Ohio, and Edward, a complicated and intense artist and professor with a past he is reluctant to reveal.

Bella is intrigued by Edward from the moment she sees him in the prologue.  He is guarded and reticent; Bella gets to know him through his family (who live next door to her).  Bella has her own past to face and as she helps Edward deal with his she has to tackle her own demons.

Branching Inward is a little bit of a slow burn but not too slow that you are dying for lemons.  Edward and Bella’s relationship is beautiful as it progresses and they get to know each other.  As I read, it gave me butterflies I felt like it was almost happening to me.

Seven things happened next, in quick succession. I'm not sure how I processed it all. It was like a spare lobe of my brain snapped to life just in order to store it all away. My deep subconscious weighed in: "This is the Edward Cullen kiss, brain. The one you've been fantasizing about. It's not going to happen a second time, so remember this."

Oh, and I did.


First, I felt Edward's hot breath. He was so close to me I could feel the air swirling gently around either side my face. The second thing that cemented itself into my brain was the vision of his translucent eyes boring into me, shards of color radiating out from an inky center, glances of light sparkling from deeper than I would have expected. Next, I let my eyes drift closed, my eyelashes floating through that cushion of warm air. The fourth thing that happened was that I heard his breath, a continuation of the same slow exhale, measured and controlled. I could smell the damp fabric of his coat, the tea and honey, something spicy and earthy I couldn't name. That was number five. Six: I felt the warmth of his face like a radiator, my own personal sun just millimeters from my skin. And finally, I felt his lips on mine.

And I was alive.

Each character is developed brilliantly as they meet Bella and she gets to know them.  From Alice, to Emmett and Rose, to Sue Clearwater and Angela.  Bella is an intelligent, down to earth and sincere character with an interesting and entrancing inner voice.

Throughout the walk home, I was lost in thought. Big families were such a curiosity to me. For as long as I could remember, it had always been just me and Charlie, or me and Renee. I never suffered over my lack of siblings, but as an adult I wondered about the complexities and nuances of relationships within big families.

How did they make room in their hearts for so many people? Did they feel varying degrees of affection for different people? I imagined what it was like to know that a sibling was just as loved as you, as cherished, as tightly bound by trust and expectations. And I wondered what it felt like not to be the family's main screw-up-but instead, to watch a beloved sibling go astray, to disappoint and then be forgiven. What would you learn from that about how unconditional a parent's love was? Would it strengthen your own ability to forgive, to restore relationships?

I shivered. Now that it was just me and Charlie, I was beginning to think that as the years unfolded, I seemed to get less and less good at really connecting with other people.

There are also a few twists and turns in the plot that keep you guessing and the storyline develops perfectly as you read further on.

The museum was small but with a beautifully curated collection. Stillness and quiet surrounded me. The clicking of a humidity sensor was the only noise I could hear. That, and my converse sneakers padding along the high-shine floors. I wandered through the student galleries in a wing that connected the museum with the working studios and art classrooms. I stopped myself from heading down the hallway I knew would lead to the faculty offices-to Edward's office. But I did browse the permanent exhibit of faculty work. The studio art department included only eight full time professors, and Edward was one of three specializing in installation and multimedia sculpture.

I found his bio in the row of placards identifying the various artists.

E.M. Cullen 

Distinguished Professor of Studio Art 

Professor Cullen began teaching art at Newcoven College in Fall 2003. His MFA is from the University of Washington. Awarded the prestigious North America Foundation Emerging Artist Award in 2006, he works primarily in multimedia installation, using tactile and sensory media to explore issues of epistemology, experience, and trust. 

But where his artwork should have been was another placard. Exhibit has been temporarily removed by request of the artist. Puzzling. The other professors had work on display, but in Edward's designated three-foot by three-foot space was just an empty white pedestal.

LifeInTheSnow writes beautifully, her expressive, poetic style keeps you captivated and you feel like you are there in Bella’s shoes.  It’s a little swoony and just plain amazing, I'd almost go as far to say it should be published I loved it so much.

I’d recommend this story to anyone who adores a vivid love story, with a little bit of drama and amazing lemons.  It really is a must-read.

Nat xx

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