Meet the Poll: Choose the FIVE that moved you the most

Each week we share with you what we are reading and enjoying. The following made the top of our lists last week. Please help us determine which 5 of these will be featured as fics of the week, next week, by choosing FIVE from the poll on the right



A Different Kind of Pain by SparklingWand-rec'd by Nic

http://www.fanfiction.net/s/7730033/1/A_Different_Kind_of_Pain

Edward is everything Bella ever dreamed of & more but he has one major flaw. He's Bella's best friend's boyfriend. Now she has to decide if pursuing her feelings for him is worth the risk of losing her friendship or suffer with a different kind of pain. Twilight - Rated: M



A Slow Boil by Kts-rec'd by SoapyMayhem

http://www.fanfiction.net/s/7052343/1/A_Slow_Boil

Bella's an exchange student hoping to find a job to keep herself employed for the summer so that she can stay on at an exclusive University. Her best job prospect is a part-time housekeeping position with one Mr. Cullen. Twilight - Rated: M



A Moonless Night by ScottishRose1028-rec'd by Kitty Vuitton/Jaime Arkin

http://www.fanfiction.net/s/8010922/1/A_Moonless_Night

"Before you, Bella, my life was like a moonless night..." On a moonless night, fate steps in and takes a hand in the destiny of Edward and Bella, changing their lives forever. AH/AU

Twilight - Rated: M



Collared by IrishChicka1-rec'd by Jaime Arkin

http://www.fanfiction.net/s/7719787/1/Collared

The Volturi brothers have their hands in everything bad...Drugs, Murder & Sexual Perversion. FBI Spec. Agent Edward Masen joins DEA Spec. Agent Isabella Swan in a dangerous undercover operation of BDSM and their own unspoken desires. Twilight - Rated: M



Deeper Discord by Ifyouweremine-rec'd by Sue Cox Cullen

http://www.fanfiction.net/s/8022119/1/Deeper_Discord

Edward is a boxer with a dark past and secrets. When his best friend's little sister moves in, he finds himself in the biggest brawl of his life. A story of love and sacrifice and fighting for what matters most. AH/OOC - M for content Twilight - Rated: M



Emotional Warfare by Completerandomness12-rec'd by Bower of Bliss

http://www.fanfiction.net/s/7006885/1/Emotional_Warfare

"Bella," I beg desperately. "I'll pay off your tuition if you do this for me" I bargain. "Seriously?" she asks. "Yeah." "Okay," she shrugs her shoulders. "When do we start?" Not wanting to appear hung up his ex, Edward hires a fake hot girlfriend. Ednerd. Twilight - Rated: M



Fate Interrupted by Drotuno-rec'd by Suebee Betafairy

http://www.fanfiction.net/s/7043677/1/Fate_Interrupted

What if Edward never returned to Carlisle after his "rebellious" phase? What if he and Bella were always meant to be? How do you pledge yourself to your mate if your life isn't yours to begin with? AU ExB Vampires...Rated M



Fate Worse Than Death by Nosleep3-rec'd by Bellaflan Fanfiction

http://www.fanfiction.net/s/4914683/1/Fate_Worse_Than_Death

New Moon AU, E/B. After Edward leaves her, Bella's haze and her danger magnet lead her down a path of abandonment, insanity, and the very edge of death. How do the pieces of her life fit back together again? Full summary inside. Twilight - Rated: M



In The Shadow of Your Heart by BellaFlan-rec'd by Twilover76

http://www.fanfiction.net/s/6627204/1/In_the_Shadow_of_Your_Heart

Edward didn't mean to kidnap Bella and hold her hostage, but she holds a secret that could destroy his family. Lucifer was an angel too, and love isn't always wholly benevolent. Vamp AU, B/E, Romance/Horror Twilight - Rated: M



My Biggest Mistake, My Greatest Salvation by LyricalKris-rec'd by Kitty Vuitton

http://www.fanfiction.net/s/7942495/1/My_Biggest_Mistake_My_Greatest_Salvation

Edward Cullen woke up married in Vegas to a scared, pregnant stranger. This is one mistake he won't leave in Vegas. Twilight - Rated: M



My Esteemed Colleague by Betty Smith-rec'd by Kitty Vuitton

http://www.fanfiction.net/s/7128650/1/My_Esteemed_Colleague

Members of Congress, Edward Cullen R-IL & Isabella Swan D-WA , have nothing in common and everything to lose. Despite divergent politics, they can't contain their feelings. Yet one issue remains that hopelessly divides their relationship & the country. 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



Pinky Swear by Kharizzmatik - Rec'd by Jaime Adkins

http://www.fanfiction.net/s/7068944/1/Pinky_Swear

Bella always knew she loved her best friend, but it isn't until she finds out he's engaged that she remembers just how much. How far will she go to make him see he's marrying the wrong woman? A story about finding your heart and losing your head. AH E/B 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



The Geheime Vernietiging by Amoredjenaue-rec'd by Nic/Kitty/Evilnat

http://www.fanfiction.net/s/8053876/1/

FBI Agent Cullen returns to NY to take down the Draconi crime family. But will his return bring more than he bargained for? Or something he never knew he always wanted. Secret missions, love & family secrets abound...& destroy. Twilight - Rated: M



The Way That I Love You by KayBlairM-rec'd by Rose Arcadia

http://www.fanfiction.net/s/7706883/1/The_Way_That_I_Love_You

Being married to one of the most powerful business men in the world has its perks. However, living the lavish lifestyle of a Cullen isn't all that it's cracked up to be. All Human. O/C. Rating may change. Twilight - Rated: T



Turkey Baster by Counselor-rec'd by Twilover76

http://www.fanfiction.net/s/7867413/1/Turkey_Baster

Bella is determined to get pregnant. What's the difference if she uses a high tech appliance or a crude flesh appendage, it's all just delivery systems, right? And here he comes now.

Twilight - Rated: M



Unravel Me by 107YrOldVirgin-rec'd by Jezza Belle

http://www.fanfiction.net/s/8028485/1/Unravel_Me

Edward doesn't know who is writing him the letters, but he knows that his secret could be revealed at any minute. Finding who the writer is could be his fantasy come to life. Or his worst nightmare come true. Twilight - Rated: M



We Are Young by MyLifeandHis-rec'd by Purely Amuse/Nic

http://www.fanfiction.net/s/8027878/1/We_Are_Young

Destiny doesn't do home visits. I can sit and chit chat with Bella, flirting with her on my balcony all I want to, but am I actually going for it? Twilight - Rated: M



Whatever Is Left Of Me by ViolaOphelia-rec'd by BookishQ

http://www.fanfiction.net/s/6858879/1/Whatever_is_Left_of_Me

When Edward returns to Bella, he does not realise that a few hours earlier she nearly drowned. He finds that the girl he came back to is very much altered from the girl he left behind, and that it takes more than saying sorry to rebuild their lives. Twilight - Rated: M

Welcome to TLS Nursey!

Welcome to TLS Nursery! Here we nurture all of the newborn stories (stories published within the last 30 days) that we love! Everything in our nursery has been read and approved by a few - or a lot - of the TLS ladies and we think you will enjoy cuddling up to these babies as well.

There are so many awesome stories to check out this week! I have read about half myself and can't wait to get started on the rest. Please have a looksie and leave some love. And remember to let them know who sent you! XOXO

Saving Myself by 107yearoldvirgin

http://www.fanfiction.net/s/7690201/1/

He's fresh out of the Army. She's fresh out of luck...and her mind. They've just met, but when an opportunity to win 2mill on a reality show arises, can they pretend to be in love? And saving themselves for marriage? BxE/AH/Fluff-fic

Winter Song by jessypt

http://www.fanfiction.net/s/7616412/1/

Sometimes a Christmas miracle is nothing more than a second chance. A story told through Fictionista Workshop's Daily Witfits.

My Sweet Variable by LifeInTheSnow

http://www.fanfiction.net/s/7762489/1/My_Sweet_Variable

My Sweet Variable by Life in the Snow

Review by Rochelle Allison

Having read Branching Inward, I was confident that the writing style and content of Life in the Snow's new fic, My Sweet Variable, would appeal to me as well. She's pretty masterful at fleshed out, genuine characterizations and plots that meander and flow with purpose and beauty.

Anyway, to say that her new story exceeded expectation would be an understatement.

It's so good! It's completely unlike anything else I've read: intrigue, mystery, dystopian. So good. I can already see that this is going to be one of the stories I pant over when it updates. I read chaoter one with the biggest grin ever.

Edward is sexy and mysterious (mysterious to us, though not to Bella) yet very accessible and Bella is pretty tough and able herself, though she doesn't quite know it yet. I can't reveal anything about who they are to each other, and ...well, I don't want to give anything away. Read this. It's fantastic and sure to be amazing.

Practice to Deceive by Livie79

http://www.fanfiction.net/s/7699988/1/Practice_to_Deceive

I saw her today. I wasn't impressed. But he wanted her, and that was enough for me. He would feel what I felt. She was just collateral damage. AH ExB

Going Under by Sparklnfade

http://www.fanfiction.net/s/7728698/1/Going_Under

It's been ten years since the summer Bella Swan's life changed. What will happen when she comes face to face with the reason for it? She went under once, will she go under again? AH ExB

Consign Me Not To Darkness by msj2779

http://www.fanfiction.net/s/7653135/1/Consign_Me_Not_to_Darkness

Bella has just escaped from the grasp of a torturous relationship and she finds herself in the slums of Chicago. She's a shadow of who she used to be and has the anxiety to go with it. With some help, she finds hope... AH B E. Some dark situations.

Beautiful Storm by Troublefollows1017 -

http://www.fanfiction.net/s/7601746/1/My_Beautiful_Storm

Weather-obsessed Bella finds Edward's journal, leading her on a trip down memory lane. Back then, Edward had run away, hoping to find a new purpose. Bella couldn't wait for her chance to escape, sure she knew what she wanted. Neither one expected this.

Review by: FictionFreak95

Trouble gives me so much happy with this fic. She gave me lock jaw from smiling so much this past week as a matter of fact and I even told her so.

I’ll just start out by saying, this is not just another story about High School Edward and Bella. The story begins, actually, with adult Bella finding adult Edward’s journal under their bed. Their bed. So we know they are together, somehow, we just don’t know how they got there… Until Bella starts reading the journal.

She finds a note, first of all, addressed to her, from Edward. It’s… *swoony worthy* and then she just can’t help but begin reading through his memories of how the two of them first met and how they fell in love. It’s a journey I’m excited to be a part of because I know the genius that is Trouble… and she will never ever write something that I’m planning on passing up.

I’ll leave you with a little snippet from my favorite chapter yet:

Edward tilted his head towards mine. "Why is everyone staring at me?" he whispered.

Because you're with me. "Have you seen yourself?" I joked instead.

He pushed at his hair. "No, I haven't looked at myself since this morning. Is there something wrong?"

I giggled at his anxiety. "There's nothing wrong with you." Besides the fact that you're walking with me. "People are attracted to pretty things, Edward."

The nerves fell away and he smiled. "Did you just call me good looking?"

"No," I snorted. "I called you pretty."

"You're pretty."

"You're weird." I shook my head, refusing to let his words settle into my consciousness. I needed to get to Angela. If I could get to Angela, everything would be okay.

"You're weird."

"You're terrible at basketball."

"So are you," he retorted. "We should join forces. Maybe get married, have a couple pretty but weird kids who are really good at physics but terrible at basketball."

I dropped my tray on Angela's table and tried to pretend Edward did not just say that. She stopped talking to Ben and stared as Edward took the seat next to me.

"Hi," he said, smiling and giving a little wave.

Angela seemed to be suffering from cat-got-your-tongue disease, but Ben welcomed Edward with a rhetorical, "What's up?" When Angela stopped staring at our guest, she began berating me with her eyes. She also cleared her throat. Three times. I stared back, giving her my "What?" look. Her eyes moved to Edward and then back to me. Again, I gave her my "What?" look. So what if Edward was sitting with us? What the hell was her problem? Did she not understand that I was under severe emotional distress? Edward Cullen, the hottest guy in school, was my friend, said I was pretty and weird, and wanted to marry me and have pretty weird kids together. That trumped any issues she had with him joining us for lunch.

"Edward, right?" Angela questioned, putting on her friendliest smile. I loved that she was trying to play it cool.

Before Edward could confirm what my best friend already knew to be true, Heidi and Gianna rudely interrupted. "Here you are! We were saving you a spot over at our table for lunch. Don't feel like you have to sit alone," Gianna said, putting a hand out.

I crossed my arms in front of my chest, trying to figure out when sitting with three other people was considered sitting alone.

"I think I'm going to stay here with Bella, but thanks."

"Oh silly..." Heidi placed her hand on his shoulder, and the urge I had to bite it made me smile "...not even Emmett sits with Bella. He sits with us at the tables over there." She pointed to the table filled with the Bitch Brigade next to another table of football players.

"Bella and I have to share an apple." Poor Edward turned the color of our sweet little prize as he held it up as proof that he had to stay here. Heidi and Gianna stared at him like he had two heads. I bit my lip to stop myself from laughing. That's right, ladies. Edward and I share joint custody of an apple. Back the hell off.

God I love this guy. SFM.

Now go, run, do not walk to your nearest computer or otherwise internet savvy device and read it, the Storm is a brewin’ and it’s gonna be a fantastic ride!

LOVE!

Fangirl by MaverickWrit - rec'd by Mina Rivera

http://www.fanfiction.net/s/7462188/1/Fangirl

"I am not obsessed," I repeated to myself for the hundredth time today. "I am simply enjoying a film. It's not obsession. I am not a fangirl." Bella Swan is in deep denial.

Footprints in the Snow by Cosmogirl7481- rec'd by TLS FIC OF THE WEEK

http://www.fanfiction.net/s/7610974/1/

"An hour from now, when the snow falls again, it will be like we weren't even there. But we will remember." A story of unrequited love, and how the things we keep silent can hurt us and the ones we hold closest. E/B Rated M for themes of an adult nature.

Last Call by Robsmyyummy Cabanaboy - rec'd by LaMomo/Suebee

http://www.fanfiction.net/s/7596421/1/Last_Call

The past she's struggling to remember is the time he'd rather forget... Can they move beyond the scars and forge a new beginning together or have they missed their Last Call? AH, Rated M for language & lemons.

What would you do if you couldn't remember your past? If the past few years of your life were wiped clean? If you had to recreate yourself? Most would talk to family members and friends, but what if they no longer existed either? Bella Swan lost her parents and her husband in a fatal car crash, the night of her wedding. When she woke up, she didn't remember them or herself.

With no one to talk to, she went on with her life. After years of rehab, she has settled in the summer haven of Loveladies on the Jersey shore, a place of her youth and her past, although, none of it is familiar to her. Looking to begin her life again, maybe she will have the chance to do so when she meets someone who does know her from before, although he isn't too pleased to see her.

When the waiter at the local bar serves them, and recognizes Bella, she has hope for finding out about herself although is the possibility dashed when he reveals to her friend, "Listen, I'm your bartender here and will happily take care of your drink orders for the night. But honestly, there's not one shred of decency in your little friend back there. At least there wasn't when I knew her. And I really don't care to revisit those days, ok? Life's too short, you know? My name is Edward. Let me know if I can get you anything else."

"Last Call" is a hilarious fic which is going to keep us guessing because the Bella we now know is not the one that Edward remembers. I can't wait to find out what Robsmyyummy Cabanaboy has planned for us on this adventure!!

Patience is a Virtue by conversed - rec'd by PAWsPeaches

http://www.fanfiction.net/s/7619457/1/

AGE GAPS FIVE: Emmett told me that good things come to those who wait. When it comes to his brother, Edward, patience is a virtue that I lack. AH M/M slash.

Requiem by katinki - published 11/28

http://www.fanfiction.net/s/7591168/1/

"And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love." 1 Cor. 13:13. When hope and faith are insufficient – when they fail to heal and save the soul – is love strong enough to conquer decades of guilt and remorse? AU. ExB

Skim the Surface by buff82 - rec'd by the ladies of TLS

http://www.fanfiction.net/s/7614297/1/Skim_the_Surface

Rumor has it. Bella deals with the reality that one little lie told can change everything. A/U Rated M for mature content.

String Theory by theladyingrey42 - published 11/27

http://www.fanfiction.net/s/7589412/1/

"Eleven dimensions. Infinite parallel realities. And in all of them, I love her." Muppets, math, and physicists falling in love. Fluff and eventual lemons. ExB, AH.

Water Landing by camoozle - published 11/27

http://www.fanfiction.net/s/7588907/1/Water_Landing

High School's a lot like a plane crash. You check for the exit. You secure your mask. And if you're lucky, you survive. AU, AH, All EPOV.

If you enjoy reading a story about a perfect Edward, then I suggest checking out any of the other stories rec'd this week. However, if you are interested in an Edward whose High School experience was about the same as most teen's, then this is the fic for you! Edward isn't popular, although he does have friends, he drives a Volvo, but it was his dad's and has seen better days, he is a musician, he plays the trumpet in the school's marching band, do I need to go on? A regular, nice guy surviving hell called High School and a home life where his pregnant teen sister is constantly being filmed for '16 and Pregnant', Edward Masen is doing his best to get by. Jam packed with a huge cast of characters, hilarious dialogue and an evolving plot check out Camoozle's "Water Landing" for a humorous look at a life, through a teen boy's eyes.

TLS Fics of the Week Aug 30 - September 5, 2011

TLS Fics of the Week August 30 - September 5, 2011

The Slowest Burn by TypoKween

http://www.fanfiction.net/s/7076900/1/The_Slowest_Burn

360 : He took my underwear, hung them from his back pocket, then said, "These are mine." - AH, E/B, Lemons.  - Romance/Drama -  Words: 69,595 - Bella & Edward - Rated: M

1st Review by PAWsPeaches

When Crooked Smile told me she was reading a fic that she thought I would like, I gave it a go.  Ever since that day, this fic has been on my mind and had me hooked from the first chapter.  If your brand of Ward is a badassWard and you enjoy a slow burn with a fantastic chase, then this is the fic for you.  The Slowest Burn has taken me on a sweet journey back to highschool, filling my head with memories of good times and filling my heart with love for all of these characters. I won't go into detail about the story because the next review does but I will tell you that this story has me excited and addicted. I will go as far as to say that I've moved it to the very tip top of my favorite fics list. Yes, It's THAT good.

2nd Review by Bojidara Krumova

Finding your place in the world is hard. Finding your place in the world as a teenager is ever harder.
The Slowest Burn tells the tale of Bella Swan, a girl who has it all; position in a cheerleading squad, social status and more friends than she could name. However, in life nothing is ever as it seems. Her fellow cheerleaders don’t like her, her social status is supported by her best friend, Rosalie, and friends would invite her to a party, but not listen to her problems.
Bella tries to fit in so hard, she loses herself somewhere along the way. Unable to express her own opinion out of fear she’d screw up, she walks down the path she’s supposed to.
"Okay," suddenly Rosalie's mouth is at my ear as we near the athlete table, "there's Jasper at the end. Slip in beside him and play it cool. Do not mention anything about giving his jacket back or even the fact that you have it on. Just be casual and…" she pauses to look down at me because she's so tall, "shit, you're going to fuck this up, aren't you?" she frowns and shakes her head.

The life Bella lives, it’s nice. She makes no hard decisions, she just goes with the flow. Having her life mapped out in front of her is easy, but when she finally gives in to what her heart desires, her life turns into a rollercoaster.

It only took one party, one decision on her own and one hook up, before everything went to hell. Bella gave in to her desires once, and nothing was the same after that.

Hooking up in high school is a regular occurrence, but when you hook up with Edward Cullen, the troubled rebel with anger management problems, things turn to the worse.

I slide his hand from my mouth. "What makes you so sure you have more than one night with me, Cullen?"

He grins and plays with the top elastic on my panties. "I've been waiting a very, very long time for this moment, Bella." 

What she knows is no longer the same. She tries to go on with her life ignoring the heated encounter with Cullen, but she can’t. His possessive nature is not allowing her.

With each chapter we see the internal battle within Bella — the girl she’s supposed to be and the girl she wants to be. When you’ve been a puppet for so long you don’t even know how to deal with your own mistakes, you tend to screw up.

"I can't do this with you, Cu—Edward," I correct myself. "You don't understand, okay? It's not like I can just dump him and be with you. It doesn't work like that. I'm already a pariah among most of my peers, and Jessica makes my life hell as it is. If I dump the fucking 'Golden Boy' of Forks High for you they will never forgive me."

"What the fuck does it matter what they think or what they say? Transfer out; go to La Push with me." He rams his fingers through his hair. "I know you feel this, Bella," he says and motions between us. "You felt it that night, and you feel it now. So the fuck what if circumstances are against us? Are you seriously that shallow?"

TypoKween gives Bella a new problem to face on her own with each chapter. Slowly, our narrator gets more and more strength to deal with her own demons, without asking for help. She’s fixing her long lost friendship with Jacob Black, she deals with Rosalie’s pregnancy and tells people to fuck off, all while trying to understand her feelings toward Cullen.

Theories of Bellativity by Kikki7

http://www.fanfiction.net/s/6932812/1/Theories_of_Bellativity

Bella Swan is a physician assistant student trying to survive a grueling clinical year. Add Dr. Edward Cullen, a cocky, irresistible ob/gyn resident. Throw in some chocolate, sprinkle with a few of Bella's quirky theories about life, and see what happens. Twilight - Rated: M

Review by Holdme Ransom

Doing your medical rotation in a busy hospital can be rough on you. Long hours, temperamental patients, the smell of sterility permeating the air. High strung doctors that make your heart race for more than the adrenaline of Emergency surgery.
What Bella Swan learns is that behind the medical mask, sexy Dr. Edward Cullen is more than he appears. Egotistical most days, over confident, and amazing talented, he has hands that can work your kinks by just being in the same room. And eyes and a face that should never hide behind a mask. Bella finds herself hot and bothered by Dr. F-Me as she works her rotation with him on overnights.
But he’s a moody doc. Full of himself and likes to make his physician assistant work hard for him.
What can curb Dr. Sexy? Like every other man: through his stomach.
Good thing Bella can find time to cook in between her long shifts. She tempts him with her food, warming him up to help her on her rotation.
A friendship of sorts begins, aided by Bella’s need to carry chocolate, like little Doctor treats for the doctor. She’ll start him on the lower level chocolates, reserving the good stuff for those that deserve it. He’s still trying.
Dr. Cullen can feel the attraction to her, but his past could make things difficult. He learns early that Bella’s dear old dad is Police Chief back home, where Edward was not the golden boy.
But can they have a relationship? He is by all accounts her mentor. Can she concentrate when his hands make magic on the operating table, or elsewhere? Can they behave themselves when there is nothing much to do in between traumas? Is it true what happens in those dark exam rooms when no one is around?
This story is so delightfully fresh and fun, with an amazing amount of UST to keep our hearts racing. Bella has quite the sharp wit, calling Dr. Cullen’s snark on several occasions, denying him when mere simple women might cave. This is of course intriguing to Dr. Sex God. How on Earth could he be denied? And by such an amazing creature as Bella Swan.
If you like ER, if you love the banter between a feisty Physician’s assistant and an over confident doctor, give this story a go. The banter and inner dialogue will leave you in stitches, and the ode to chocolate and food will make you hungry for more. The medical jargon is well thought out for the novice reader, without seeming too simple. I love it for the adult wit without the need to be dirty, although there is enough perving by our characters to get you hot and bothered. A strong Bella who knows where she wants to be in life makes this story win win. This is definitely one of my go to reads when it updates!

Gypsies Tramps and Theives by 107yearoldvirgin

http://www.fanfiction.net/s/7238915/1/Gypsies_Tramps_and_Thieves

The world as we know it no longer exists. New social classes have formed. Monsters roam free. And Mankind's survival is not what it seems. AU/BxE/ Postapocalyptic Vampfic Twilight - Rated: M

Review by Suebee0619

I’m a big fan of 107yearoldvirgin’s and have been since I started reading fic and came across Sleephumper.  I’ve enjoyed watching her push her writing style with each story she wrote, but I was not even remotely prepared for the gorgeousness that is Gypsies, Tramps, & Thieves.  With GT&T she has taken her writing to a whole other level.  As I read, her words swirl around me much like Bella’s skirt when she dances, and I escape completely into the world she’s created.  It’s what I call a fic blanket – a story that I curl up in as it wraps itself around me.

While this is a post-apocalyptic AU, that description barely does it justice.  This is the world after the end of days, where humans are divided into two distinct classes. The frightening thing to me is just how believable it really is.  The separation between the two classes is described perfectly by Bella.

Because truthfully…there was no Garden of Eden here. No Adam. No Eve.

There was simply: Them.

And: Us.

The men and women who looked down on us for the lifestyle they had forced us into. The women who scorned us in their marketplaces, speaking ill of our clothing, our tents, our way of survival. And their men who pretended to despise us, yet secretly snuck out of their own candle lit homes to watch us in the dark of night as we gave them what they lacked and had to pay for now.

They may have had all of the money and status, but we had the power. 

The gypsy women dance for the upper class men and many of them are whores as well to
earn some extra gold.  But not Bella.  Bella is kept pure and we discover why later in the story.  The first clue we get that something is amiss comes from Edward, who saves her from a man after one of her performances.  As he leaves her, the following exchange takes place:

"They've chosen wisely," he called to me in the darkness.

"Who?" My own voice sounded unfamiliar and harsh against the sweet quiet of his.

The man stood to his feet and glanced over his shoulder towards the tent city. "Isabella?"

"How did you know my name?"

His face never turned back towards me before he began to walk away. "The first chance you get…"

"Yes?"

"Run."

Edward’s protectiveness of Bella is a mission not only to save her, but to save him and the rest of the vampires in his family.

She was the apple in our Garden on Eden. And I needed to make sure she survived, in order for us all to remain in our Utopia.

He sees this world as a vampire’s Garden of Eden, where she sees almost no redeeming quality in the world as it now exists and this dichotomy is a fascinating undercurrent to the bigger plot.  You may have noticed I’m not giving away much in the way of details here.  One of the wonderful experiences reading this are the small reveals of what exactly is going on.  Slowly, you start to have enough pieces of the puzzle to begin to see the bigger picture.

The two of them are drawn to each other beyond the role of protector and protected and they are slowly figuring things out as they go.  How can he save her without bringing the world crashing down and carefully navigate their way through the tangled web set by the vampire royalty?  This is what I’m waiting, breathlessly, to find out.

Compendium of Thoughts by ItIsRaining

http://www.fanfiction.net/s/6878388/10/

After Edward is struck with a serious illness, Bella offers to give him a ride to school every day. His musings on life are priceless and unique. Based in its entirety on a true story. Twilight - Rated: M

Review by Mina Rivera

The first thing that I look for in a fic before I start reading is its summary, then I go check if there is anyone else reading it and ask for their opinion.

There are rare stories that catch my eye and simply suck me in without stopping to think about it.

This story is one of them.

And it only took me one line.

“Based in its entirety on a true story and dedicated to Grant.”

Just from that line, I knew that I was about to be part of something unique and true.

What I didn’t expect was to feel so connected to the characters and the story itself on such a level that I read the story in only two hours, and then re-read it in only one hour.

And then re-re-read it in another hour.

Yeah, this is one of those stories that you just HAVE to read more than once. Not because of the hot lemons or the amazing action and mystery.

No.

This story is so compelling in its simplicity and vulnerability that it draws you in.

The characters are REAL, in every sense of the word. You can identify their evolution with a part of yourself that you had once lived back in school.

Their growth is something you have experienced in your youth.

Their friendship is something you have found once or twice around.

Their attraction is something you have felt curious about more than once.

Their love is something you have felt or aspire to feel in your life.

Their story is something you are now part of, because you read it.

And it all starts with an email…


FWD: Edward's Schedule
To: Bella Swan, Angela Weber
Monday, April 4, 6:45 AM
Hi Girls,
I know this is a random email, but I thought you might be able to help. Edward Cullen had another seizure last week and is not allowed to drive for six months. I know he goes to school with you girls and he can't drive himself there now. Below is his schedule and I thought that there had to be kids from the area that he could catch a ride with. If you or someone you know that goes to FHS would be able to give him a lift; that would be a huge help. I'm sure they would offer to pay gas money.
I'm not trying to put you two on the spot, I just figured you'd be a good place to start looking for help.
Hope you're both doing well.
Cathleen Stanley

From a helping hand, to a partner, to a friend, to a lover and to forever.

All changes for this Edward when a small favor from a girl with a big heart shows him how life can be for him.

"I don't want to be…a burden for you, Bella. I…I have issues. I know that. You know that. I thought that maybe this thing could work out and so I tried, I really did try yesterday, to be optimistic. But, as soon as we took off, I felt sick and it was like..." he laughed a little, darkly, "I don't know, it was like an omen or something." He paused in thought for a few moments. "I just don't want anyone going out of their way for me."
It was the most I had ever heard him say at one time. I was equally happy that it wasn't because he was embarrassed and infuriated because he thought of himself as 'a burden'.
I wanted to tell him that I was different from other people. I was meant to take care of people and I had known this since I was a little girl. He didn't want to be taken care of or coddled in any way; I could understand and respect that, but I wasn't donating organs or cutting off limbs for him. I was driving him to the school and he was going to accept it, damnit.
"Edward…it's a ride to school." Somewhat sarcastically, I continued, "I accepted the challenge of taking you to school and everything else that may come with it," implying yesterday's vomit incident slyly, "so suck it up and be ready at 6:35 every week day, got it?"
Edward was looking at me incredulously, believe me, with my sailor's mouth, I knew what incredulous looked like by now. He stared for a few moments before shaking his head and then nodding, a small, but beautiful smile on his face.
"Yeah." He smiled wider, one side of his lips going higher than the other. "Yeah, okay."
"Good." Now, I was smiling.

Both characters are flawed and uncertain, but as the story progresses, so do they.

I urge you to read this story; you’ll be part of something so unique that you will want to read more from this author, even though she doesn’t have any other stories in her profile.

So, go read and review, and maybe even do a little begging for another story.

Oh! And before you read the epilogue, stock up on Kleenex, it was such a beautiful surprise!

Until next time,

~Mina

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

Each week, in our group, we share which fics are moving us, getting us excited, hot and hooked. We put all of the recs on a poll at the end of the week to vote four of them to be TLS Fics of the Week, each week. Be a part of determining next week's winners and place your vote for one of the amazing noms below.

Shout out to TYPOKWEEN author of "The Slowest Burn" ( summary below) for the crazyamazing gif she whipped up in a flash for our poll posts! Her story, The Slowest Burn has a lot of us hanging on for the next update, I've been obsessing over it for days and quite frankly, I believe this story will be the next big thing. I'm already considering it a favorite and I'm only on chapter 9, it's certainly my cup of tea. If you like the Edward with the I-don't-give-a-shit attitude, then I highly recommend that you read it, he's had me worked up all day.

Check out the other noms below, SO MANY AWESOME NOMS THIS WEEK, I think I'm reading over half of these right now.

A Compendium of Thoughts by ItIsRaining
http://www.fanfiction.net/s/6878388/10/
After Edward is struck with a serious illness, Bella offers to give him a ride to school every day. His musings on life are priceless and unique. Based in its entirety on a true story.
Twilight - Rated: M

Gypsies, Tramps and Thieves by 107yearoldvirgin  http://www.fanfiction.net/s/7238915/1/Gypsies_Tramps_and_Thieves
The world as we know it no longer exists. New social classes have formed. Monsters roam free. And Mankind's survival is not what it seems. AU/BxE/ Postapocalyptic Vampfic
Twilight - Rated: M

Haven by Mmsinful 
http://www.fanfiction.net/s/6774285/1/Haven
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 Twilight - Rated: M

How to Paint a House by Maggie's Gutter 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

Just Breathe by Jtmd24
http://www.fanfiction.net/s/6844825/1/Just_Breathe
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

Love In Idleness by Twanzaa
http://www.fanfiction.net/s/6960328/1/Love_In_Idleness
Bella Swan meets the perfect boy during her junior year, but when she finds out he's a freshman, and an evil mastermind, all hell breaks lose. Twilight - Rated: M

My Fiance, My Mistress and Me by Vampirelover345
http://www.fanfiction.net/s/7104504/1/
He wasn't supposed to go home with her, but he did. He thought it was just a one night stand, but it wasn't. He's not supposed to love her, but he does. "So make it simple, Edward. Leave her." AH, AU, OOC, canon pairings eventually ExB Twilight - Rated: M

Rolling In The Deep by Jokline14
http://www.fanfiction.net/s/7236172/1/Rolling_in_the_Deep
Bella and Edward are very similar people or so they've been told. What happens when they meet and the sparks fly? Will they remain the same or have they both changed too much to ever go back to who they used to be? Twilight - Rated: M

September by AMazenLove
http://www.fanfiction.net/s/7260191/1/September
A story of life, love, and loss. Of "I love you's" and "Don't you leave me". A story of survival against all odds, and moving forward when all you want to do is forget the past. 9/11/2001 Theme. Rated M

The Cliffs by bornonhalloween
http://www.fanfiction.net/s/6680958/1/The_Cliffs
Edward has just graduated college and is ready to take over the family business- an island retreat called The Cliffs. Can he ever get over his boyhood crush on the babysitter?
Twilight - Rated: M


The Inheritance by iambeagle
http://www.fanfiction.net/s/6481177/1/The_Inheritance
Three stipulations are keeping Edward from receiving his inheritance money, one of them being he must obtain a serious relationship. His solution? Pay Bella to pretend to date him. There's absolutely no way this plan can backfire. AH, EPOV Twilight - Rated: M

The Nymph and the Waterfall by Pastiche Pen http://www.fanfiction.net/s/4694385/1/The_Nymph_and_the_Water
Someone is spying on Bella at an "inconvenient" time. There's a gnome and a crap ex-best friend. All-human.

Theories of Bellativity by Kikki7
http://www.fanfiction.net/s/6932812/1/Theories_of_Bellativity
Bella Swan is a physician assistant student trying to survive a grueling clinical year. Add Dr. Edward Cullen, a cocky, irresistible ob/gyn resident. Throw in some chocolate, sprinkle with a few of Bella's quirky theories about life, and see what happens.Twilight - Rated: M

The Slowest Burn by TypoKween
http://www.fanfiction.net/s/7076900/1/The_Slowest_Burn
360 : He took my underwear, hung them from his back pocket, then said, "These are mine." - AH, E/B, Lemons.

This Is My Father by Fernn
http://www.fanfiction.net/s/6961845/1/This_Is_My_Father
After a stressful year at Chicago U, Bella looks forward to taking a break from it all by spending a carefree summer with her boyfriend. But all thoughts of relaxation are thrown out the window when she is introduced to her boyfriend's father, Edward. Twilight - Rated: M

What Fills the Eye, Fills the Heart byTwoTwiMoms
http://www.fanfiction.net/s/6956775/1/What_Fills_The_Eye_Fills_the_Heart
Bella is an erotic romance novelist who finds herself in a pub to escape her roommate's animalistic "romps". While at the pub, she meets sexy, Irish Edward. On St. Patrick's Day will she end up having a romp of her own? Twilight - Rated: M

What If I Told You by Ajsilentvoice
http://www.fanfiction.net/s/6719390/1/What_if_I_Told_You
After nearly a year, Bella finally finds a number for the Cullens in Ithaca, New York. A last minute invitation to a reunion bash at Mike Newton's, though, leaves Bella drunk, alone, and holding a cell phone. Will a stupid mistake bring them together? Twilight - Rated: M

Young Pilgrims by Ineedyoursway
http://www.fanfiction.net/s/6562584/1/Young_Pilgrims
Bella lives a life without passion. Passion is the only thing Edward has. Twilight - Rated: M