Titles M - R
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(MSR, Rated NC-17, 29K)
Recommended 10-15-00
Audrey: An oldie but a goooooodie, mmhmmm! Penned well before Leyla's short-
lived "retirement," this is a quick, delicious read. When Mulder spies Scully asleep in her
bed, a misunderstanding ensues that fans the flames of sexual tension...which Scully resolves in her own special way. Just the thing to read when you need some happy smut.
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(Rated PG-13, 9K)
Recommended 4-23-01
Blackwood: Although I told David that I find the premise utterly implausible, I also found it
utterly charming to consider. Of course, that's a compliment to the author's gift of gab and the skill with which he weaves words between his characters. This time, Fox Mulder and John Doggett shoot the breeze between brewskies and the conversation turns with unerring accuracy to: who else? This is a jaunty, fun ride and my only wish is that Carter would write his characters with as deft a hand as David. Great work!
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(Post-colonization, Character Death, Mulder/Other, Rated PG-13 and R, 48K
and 163K)
Recommended 9-18-00
Mish: Let me begin by stating that I am not a big fan of Mulder/other stories. Many times,
the 'other' is drawn either as Mulder's Madonna-like savior or his merciless, fanatical stalker. Not to mention the fact that I just can't picture Mulder with anyone but Scully (excluding slash, but that's just my little idiosyncracy ). But the 'other' in this fabulous post-col piece is a smart, no-nonsense woman who's not perfect, but not psycho either. In other words, human. It is not an easy tale to swallow; the harsh realities of this post- apocalypse world are portrayed with stark clarity, all through the eyes of one who knows she can never be Scully. Does she let that stop her from going on, from giving what she can to Mulder and taking what he offers in return? Lose yourself in this story...
you won't regret it.
~ ~ ~
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(MSR, Rated NC-17, 31K)
Recommended 12-11-00
Diana: Anjou's gorgeous writing and perfect characterizations make this a 'must-read.'
Scully is waiting for a sign from Mulder. Full of the normal uncertainty and fear that plague most of us in a new relationship, she decides to take matters into her own hands. Never was logic put to such good use!
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(Humor, Rated PG-13, 17K)
Recommended 6-19-00
Mish: What a delightful break from the angst-fests of recent weeks. Set after "all things,"
we listen as Mulder, in a drunken monologue, critiques everything from Broadway musicals to Scully's need for space. Only one thing I want now -- a sequel!
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(MSR, Rated PG-13, 14K)
Recommended 2-26-01
mountainphile: After watching Per Manum, this lovely story was the perfect capstone!
Aranea treats us to a glimpse of Mulder's emotions and reactions in the wake of Scully's anguish over the failed procedure. With writing that is beautifully expressive, yet simple, she shows the tender bond between two people in love opening up to one another. Well done!
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(Crossover, Scully/Other, Rated NC-17, 593K)
Recommended 10-30-00
Jintian: This novel is one way to envision how the darkness of "Demons" progressed to
the darkness of "Gethsemane." It's full of force and suspense, the action tense and damn well-written. There is masterful characterization of both Mulder and Scully, and the crossover (with the "Ninja" novels by Eric Lustbader) aspect of the story adds a fascinating new figure to the XF universe, all of it colored with the mysteries of Eastern philosophies and martial arts.
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Mobius by L. A. Ward
(MSR, Rated R, 300K)
Recommended 2-26-01
Audrey: What if, instead of one universe, the Big Bang created a string of parallels, and
each existence varied according to the choices made in any particular lifetime? In a compelling mix of sci-fi-science and mysticism, "Mobius" shows us two universes crossing, with Scully at the vortex. Set sometime after Mulder's disappearance, Scully investigates the disappearance of a renowned physicist, and in the process opens a door to "what if." A very well-constructed and well-told story, enjoyable and satisfying.
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(Humor, Rated NC-17, 46K)
Recommended 9-4-00
Jintian: This is an absolutely hilarious, fascinating look at the M/S dynamic -- "scathingly
perceptive," as I told the author, and quite refreshing to have the now-epic UST taken apart so deftly. The dialogue and writing are snappy and clever, and the story is highly entertaining from start to finish. Certain scenes had me laughing out loud, and I know I'll remember them for quite some time. ;-)
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(Humor, Rated R, 140K)
Recommended 10-15-00
Jintian: aflg agreed with me that even though Alex Krycek is an "insensitive murdering
bastard," he's still damn fun to write about. This story was a delightfully saucy romp through Krycek's head, as an even bigger badass than himself steps in to redirect the life of the one-armed assassin everybody loves to hate. I laughed out loud many, many times while reading this but I'm not afraid to admit to a bit of sniffling at the very end (it was just a tiny bit, though). Lots of screamingly funny punchlines and a hilarious original character, one of the most unique I've ever come across, make this story a Must Read.
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(MSR, Rated PG-13, 10K)
Recommended 2-26-01
Jintian: I just about died laughing when I finished reading this fic. Or I did after I wiped up
all the coffee I spewed onto my monitor. Then I went and rec'd it to all my friends, and now I'm rec'ing it here. Truly evil, truly ingenious, truly original post-Requiem fic. And that's all I'm going to say. ;-)
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(Rated R, 22K)
Recommended 3-26-01
Mish: It's the little touches; the scraps of paper in the shoeboxes. There is no such thing
as silence from the dead, as Livia makes us realize. Though told from Scully's POV, this story is all Mulder. You can see him, hear him, touch him...even smell him in the musty corners. I don't know what else to say, except read and enjoy her Mulder. Though for the most part invisible, he permeates every paragraph. Great story.
Forte: I love how Livia pulled together the universal, terrible sadness of taking care
of a loved one's possessions, Scully's fierce loyalty and protection of Mulder, and
wonderful Mulder family history and Muldervoice. A beautiful job all around.
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(MSR, Rated NC-17, 50K)
Recommended 8-21-00
Diana: The author's summary for this is 'smut biscuit, pure and simple.' Trust me, I've
read this story numerous times, and there's nothing pure about it. This is one of the hottest MSRs I've ever had the pleasure of reading. And there's just a dash of angst in the story, enough to give you a tiny little ache in your chest. Grab yourself a cold drink, and enjoy.
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(Post-colonization, M/S, 53K)
Recommended 6-19-00
Blackwood: Few authors have the power to annihilate me and make me grateful while
they're doing it. Such is the power of this fic. Elegant construction and flawless execution mark all of JET's work, but this one...this one is bellissima.
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(Alternate Universe, Rated R, 55K)
Recommended 7-24-00
Audrey: I love a good AU story, don't you? "Night's Reflection on Night" is a particularly
well-written one that popped up recently. Just the second effort by kshar, it posits how the events of Paper Hearts might've played out had Mulder never recovered his memory of Samantha's abduction, and thus never begun his quest. I don't want to give too much away, but have to mention how well the author maintains the same emotional intensity of the episode, showing how personal interest drives the investigation. Told in a completely convincing Scully first-person, "Night's" success ultimately rests on the author's intelligent insights and interesting approach to the characters, and makes for a very satisfying read.
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(MSR, Rated PG-13, 44K)
Recommended 10-30-00
Audrey: Despite its title, this is NOT a story about M&S attending an FBI costume party
or handing out treats. As Mulder continues his recovery post-Amor Fati, he's desk-bound and restless, and invites Scully on a ghost hunt of sorts. But Mulder soon realizes it's a ghost he never wants to meet. The chemistry and mood of this piece are just right, with a vulnerable Mulder trying to reconnect to Scully and his own life -- a wonderful seasonal read.
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(Spoiler Fic, MSR, Rated PG, 14K)
Recommended 1-29-01
Diana: Beware, spoiler virgins -- this is not for you! However, the rest of you are in
for a treat. Alelou has crafted a delightful story from a spoiler that had me breathing fire.
She made a less-than-palatable situation work. "Not Dumb Animals" is full of wit and charm, with superb characterizations and dialogue that sparkles. This is definitely in the 'not-to-be-missed' category.
Forte: Spoilers, spoilers, spoilers! Don't read this fic if you don't want to be
spoiled for some upcoming (post-Badlaa) eps. :) Having said that, I can't write
much about Alelou's wonderful fic without giving away important, and spoiling,
info. So I'll just say that I'm confident that Alelou handles this scenario in a much
more realistic and touching way than CC will. :)
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(MSR, Rated PG-13, 15K)
Recommended 4-23-01
Blackwood: Although this story appeared last summer, I recommend it thoroughly to
anyone who hasn't yet read it. This was the first SueBee story I ever experienced and as soon as I did, I had to go and find everything else she'd written. Sue has a masterful grasp of Mulder and Scully and her portrayal of their dynamic is always realistic, edgy and full of the sexual tension that makes them such an evocative couple. This piece is set post- Orison and is one of the best you'll find out there. Sue tells me she's seeking inspiration of late and I pray her muse returns soon because I am definitely a fan!
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(MSR, Rated PG-13, 42K)
Recommended 7-24-00
Mish: An unusual post-Requiem piece utilizing a character that I for one would love to see
return for another appearance. This story is heart-wrenching yet ultimately courageous, showing the power and self-sacrifice of the human spirit. Excellent prose and progression of the story that leaves you wondering until the very end. And it may bring a tear or two to your eye...
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(MSR, Rated PG-13, 13K and 93K)
Recommended 1-8-01
Mish: A unique story that will not fail to move you, "Forecast of Rain" and its sequel,
"Occluded" give us something to chew on in post-Requiem Scully angst, but for a reason that is totally unexpected. It marches on before your disbelieving eyes while you sit there and think, "This can't be happening." But happen it does, and in Alanna's deft hands, you can't help but sit silently and look at the screen with awe. It moved me -- not to tears, but to something far worse. It made me stop moving, made my heart slow down and beat along with Scully's as she fights the battle of her life. You won't find a better-woven tale of hope amidst despair.
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(MSR, Rated PG, 27K)
Recommended 6-26-00
mountainphile: I like a different, creative approach to the Mulder and Scully dynamic,
which is why this clever story by EPurSeMouve struck a chord with me.We're treated to a private, more feminine side of Scully's life and are privy to heryearnings for a closer relationship with Mulder. How does she do it? With "American Beauty" and "Ripened Passion", among other things... This one is delightful!
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(Rated PG, 30K)
Recommended 1-8-01
Jintian: I think my interest in fanfic (and the X-Files in general) has been jumpstarted by
this relative newbie. I'd never seen anything by Rah before but I'm damn glad I clicked on her story -- it was the most enjoyable read I'd had in a long while. Clever, sharp, sometimes hilarious, sometimes tragic and bittersweet, yet oddly realistic in the context of Season 8. This one's a winner, folks.
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(DSR, Rated NC-17, 8K)
Recommended 8-5-01
mountainphile: A solid MSR lover, I was drawn into this story kicking and screaming by
Jenna's fantastic lyrical description and use of metaphor. This vignette is 100 lines of pure poetry, distilling the essence of new intimacy between Scully and Doggett in a Mulderless universe. Disembark from the Ship for a moment, if you would, and give this story a long look.
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(Mulder/Krycek, Rated R, 10K)
Recommended 2-26-01
Jintian: A nice little twist on all those slash fics that have Krycek pining after everyone's
favorite G-man. What if Mulder *isn't* the object of his affections? This one's full of Jane St Clair's trademark darkness (humor isn't quite the word for it, but it's close) and there are some awesome lines I'd give my left arm to be able to write.
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(MSR, Rated PG, 9K)
Recommended 10-15-00
Diana: More and more I look to fanfiction to fill in the blanks. Fanfiction like "Only
Apples." This is a terrific piece. I love seeing this side of Mulder and Scully. The gentle sweetness that they are certainly capable of is present in every paragraph.That they could project this and remain in character without any sap is testament to Kelly's talents. I highly recommend this.
mountainphile: Yes, even Mulder and Scully deserve a day in the sunshine! Kelly's
shown us a superb little slice of ordinary life that touches my heart! I love the easy affection and believable dialogue. A perfect autumn treat!
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(MSR, Rated PG, 19K)
Recommended 6-26-00
Jintian: The only hardship in recommending Maria Nicole's work is narrowing my choices
down to one story. I actually passed over several outstanding longer works for this one (and it *hurt*, I tell you), so I hope "The Opposite of Impulse" will draw you in for more of Maria's fic if you're not already familiar with it. She balances a smart, gentle style with perfect characterizations, and every story is truly refreshing to read -- especially this one, whether it's the fifth or fiftieth time.
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(MSR, Rated PG-13, 13K)
Recommended 7-3-00
Forte: As a math/science geek, I adored the theme of this story. But even if you're not a
geek like me, I can sing the praises of this post-Requiem fic for its unique conversation between Mulder and Scully. You'll see what I mean.
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(M/S UST, Rated PG, 13K)
Archived 9-18-00
Jintian: Lovely, simply lovely. What really floored me was when Ptero told me it was her
first effort at fanfic. If only all of us could make such a bright entrance. This post-Closure snippet is full of gorgeous imagery and honest characterization between Mulder and Scully after such a difficult time.
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(West Wing, Josh/Mandy, Rated R, 72k
Recommended 8-5-01)
Audrey: This could become the fanficcer's West Wing backstory bible. Set pre-WW, it
follows the gang along the campaign trail, after the death of Josh's father. It's a compelling scenario for how things went bad between him and Mandy and how she found herself out of a job. (But you always suspected those two things were intertwined somehow, didn't you?) As always, Sab's writing is sharp, funny and mesmerizing - and she's got the Sorkin patter down to an art.
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(Rated PG-13, 74K)
Recommended 7-3-00
Mish: The first time I read this, I was about to go on the warpath for a sequel. Then I read
it again. And again. Needless to say, with every time I read it, I'm more convinced that it's absolutely perfect as it is. What if Mulder's ability to read minds stayed with him? How would Scully react? Truly a masterpiece of characterization, plot and lest I forget...angst! Gotta love that angst!
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(Rated PG-13, 20K)
Recommended 1-29-01
Audrey: Held in a dark cell with no clue to his whereabouts, how he got there or who his
captors are, Mulder ignores the blank sheets of paper that begin appearing with his daily ration of bread and water. By the slit of light that creeps into the cold room for a few hours a day, Mulder sees one day that there's writing on the paper, and the handwriting is as familiar as his own. What follows is mostly epistolary, a moving exchange of secrets and sustaining gallows humor. I was completely drawn in by Allison's sharp details and the characters' persistence despite their increasing sense of doom.
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(MSR, Rated R, 266K)
Recommended 11-13-00
Audrey: I'm absolutely delighted to recommend this oustanding fic by Penumbra, a writer
with a stunningly original voice, wonderfully twisted sense of humor, and a bone-deep understanding of what Mulder and Scully mean to each other. Who else could write the following line, using bittersweet humor to make an anthropological observation: "Their world continued, and Mulder drummed up an intriguing decapitation case with which to woo her." The author's dense language and often metaphysical imagery surround the reader, offering new insights into the events of season 7 and weaving a veil of soft-focus (but white-hot) eroticism. And for those who might be wondering...the Museum of Jurassic Technology [www.mjt.org <http://www.mjt.org>], as improbable an institution as ever there was, does indeed exist and should be at the top of any traveler's itinerary when visiting Los Angeles.
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(MSR, Not Rated, 14K)
Recommended 2-26-01
Audrey: With her original take on "Per Manum," Mo gives us a bittersweet vignette with
terrific banter. Psych!Mulder is in the house -- Scully's kitchen, specifically -- and at her invitation, sketches a profile which rings with emotional truth. His own revelations are touching and equally genuine. Big kudos for the natural, conversational tone and spot-on character observations.
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(MSR, Rated R, 21K)
Recommended 8-7-00
Jintian: This is a recently-revised version of the story, but as I told the author it's just as
memorable the second time around. There are images that pierce the memory and stay with you, delivered in tight realistic prose that still has that certain lyrical poetry about it that is Khyber's signature style.
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(MSR, Rated PG-13, 14K)
Recommended 10-30-00
Audrey: One of the best qualities of the better XF scripts is the multi-layered
conversations between our heroes. In their world, a cigar is *never* just a cigar, and in Lysandra's, a simple conversation about fruit overlays Scully's second-person rumination on Mulder's place in her life. Light a scented candle and enjoy this lovely vignette.
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(Rated PG-13, 17K)
Recommended 10-15-00
Blackwood: It's only my opinion, but the best fiction is that which evokes emotion --
positive or negative. It doesnn't matter which. As long as it's well done, I'm enthralled. Suffice to say that this piece held me in its grasp from start to finish. Dread is a state of mind and the fact that I can see this scenario played out in a chilling XF reality keeps me in that state of dread just remembering Cathleen's premise. Elegant writing and spot-on characterizations mark all of Ms. Faye's work and this one is no exception. :)
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(MSR, A, Rated NC-17, 326k)
Recommended 8-5-01
Mish: Is there anyone left in the fic world who hasn't read this story? Probably not. And
what could I possibly say that hasn't already been said? Not much, I guess. So let me give you a reason to *re-read* it, okay? Hmm... maybe I could say that this is my favorite Lydia Bower story, one that I read at least three times a year. Maybe I could say that this is, IMO, the best cancer-arc fic ever written. The scene where Scully punches Mulder is certainly worth reading again. Or the one scene with George's POV where you just have to smile along with him... or the scene with an uncertain Mulder in nothing but sweaty running shorts... Skinner at his lock-jawed, but tender best.... If there's one fic that deserves to be called a classic, this is it. Absolutely perfect. Lose yourself in it once again.
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(M/S UST, Rated PG, 21K)
Recommended 3-12-01
mountainphile: This...this is the scenario I longed for and Chris Carter denied me when
"This Is Not Happening" aired. A dramatically-written tale with spot-on characterization, the reader can actually smell and taste the tension as well as see the sharp images and emotional shifting between viewpoints. Elizabeth came to my rescue. If you screamed in despair along with Scully at the end of the last episode (like I did -- spoilers notwithstanding!), then this story is written for you!
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(Rated PG, 6K)
Recommended 7-3-00
Mish: I simply could not believe that this was a first fanfic...the Scully voice is so real, I
could hear the clinical despair in every word. *This* is how I envision Scully living without Mulder -- detaching herself from her emotions, cloaking her uncertain world in the comfort of science. "Maybe if I believed that if I stayed exactly the same, when Mulder returned he too would have remained static and together we would once again be each other's constants in a variable world." Unbelievable power.
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(Crossover, Humor, Rated PG-13, 78K)
Recommended 6-26-00
Forte: I love The X-Files. I love Monty Python. I love to laugh. Does that describe you as
well? Then run, do not walk, to read "Random Replies." It sounds like a bizarre combination (okay, it *is* a bizarre combination ), but if "Monty Python and the Holy Grail" is your idea of a cool movie, read this fic. And while you're waiting for it to load, picture the Gunmen doing a Gregorian chant. ;) (Pssst...there's a special treat for you Diana Fowley haters out there. )
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(No Spoilers, Humor, Not Rated, 2K)
Recommended 10-15-00
Diana: I'm a bit apprehensive about season eight. Too little Mulder, the surprise
pregnancy, and the addition of the 'new guy' are all elements that could lead to disaster in the wrong hands. Then I read this delightful piece. While Alicia hasn't allayed my fears, she has managed to put a smile on my face despite them.
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(MSR, NC-17, 94K and 202K)
Recommended 9-4-00
Mish: "Regular People" has always been at the top of my list of favorites, most
especially for its portrayal of Mulder and Scully in a more normal fashion than we're used to seeing. It's a joy to see them doing yard work, shopping for groceries, and yes... talking! Not just mutants or alien goo, but about and *to* each other. The characterization is amazingly right, considering we've never seen them such at ease, simply enjoying each other's company. And "Regular People Still" continues the story with amazing skill and sensitivity. Not just your everyday smut, although that is quite nice. Reading these is like savoring the finest chocolate. Sit back and enjoy!
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(MSR, Rated R, 405K)
Recommended 8-21-00
Diana: I started reading this when it was still a WIP, something I don't usually do. But it
would take a saint to be able to resist a Beduini story, and God knows, I'm no saint! I jumped in with both feet and never looked back, eagerly awaiting each new chapter. This is an intriguing story, with a missing Mulder, and a Scully who will stop at nothing to find him. Be prepared for one hell of a ride.
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(XA, M/S UST, MSR, Rated R, 256k)
Recommended 10-2-01
Mish: A good, creepy X-file, some great UST and a trip to the Mississippi delta complete
with local flavor. Yes, I was surprised at the unexpected development, but it didn't stop me from finishing the story and simply enjoying the episode-like tale. Read the headers carefully, friends. Then sit back and wait for it - it's worth it.
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Pearl by Spookey247
(MSR, Rated NC-17, 13k)
Recommended 11-9-01
Mish: Have you ever pictured the perfect M/S sex scene? Well, this is it. We're talking
*romance* here, folks. Complete with 'come hither' heated looks, Gentleman!Mulder and Satin!Scully, and a canopied bed... <sigh> This little piece of erotica is so richly drawn with so few words - a fantasy come to life on the screen. Aptly named, it's a gem of a story!
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(Rated PG, 11k)
Recommended 11-12-01
Blackwood: Another solid effort from a writer whose style resonates with intelligence and
a sharp understanding of M&S. This tale echoes with past moments of shippiness and hope for the future. Thanks, Georgia, for the moments of joy this piece brought *me.*
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(M/S UST, Rated PG-13, 21k)
Recommended 12-24-01
Mish: Ahh... just what I needed this holiday season. Mulder and Scully, sipping spiked
eggnog and creating a little bit of joy, even without the mistletoe. This is a nice bit of UST, compliments of someone who is rapidly becoming my M/S pusher. <g> A quick fix like this I could use just about every day - doesn't have to be Christmas. But *that* just makes it all the more satisfying!
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Number the Days by k
(West Wing, CJ/Toby, Rated PG-13, 10k )
Recommended 12-24-01
Audrey: A smart vignette that brings new meaning to the term "holidayfic," it captures
wonderfully the characters' prickly mutual attraction and characteristic banter. As an added bonus, it'll make you think about those quiet milestones in your own life and want to celebrate them with someone special.
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(Historical AU, MSR, Rated R, 652k)
Recommended 2-25-02
Mish: I know not everyone is enamored of historical AU, but I love it. As long as the
characterizations are on target, I can buy just about any scenario. And pru's characters (not just Mulder and Scully, either) are so recognizable to the reader that it's easy to fall into the timeline of the story. In this case, it's the autumn of 1953 in New York City. Drawn with amazing dexterity, the sights and sounds come alive in the imagination. Mulder, to all outward appearances, is the typical aging athlete; and he himself has sometimes fallen prey to stereotypical behavior - drinking and womanizing with the best of them. But it's what's inside that counts - and with the help of a mysterious nurse named Dana Scully, he finally finds what he's looking for. Sweet without being sappy, this romance is one for the ages.
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(MSR, XA, Rated NC-17, 429k)
Recommended 3-26-02
Mish: Yet another excellent novel set in the "Goshen" universe - this time, Mulder and
Scully are doing the good old X-file investigation. Lots of scary goings-on, relationship ups and downs, and best of all - damned good writing. I have to say that these stories, in my opinion, represent some of the best that X-files fanfiction has to offer. If you haven't read any of these, then you're missing out - big time. Bone is currently writing the fifth in the series of novels, "The Lost Land", which promises to carry on the excellence. I, for one, could happily read ten more just like these. :)
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(MSR, Rated NC-17, 82k)
Recommended 5-17-02
Blackwood: This is my classic rec for the day. Of course, I could have picked just
about *anything* Annie's written and waxed poetic. As it is, I'll settle for The MSR that turned this "fan" into a "phile." Oh my... yes indeed. The rest, as they say, is history and for that, dearest Annie, I am forever grateful.
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(H, MSR, A, Rated R, ca. 40k (not available in plain-text format, for reasons which will
become obvious)
Recommended 6-16-02
Audrey: Warning: Do not read while ingesting beverages of any kind. Genius. Pure,
goofy, twisted genius. Structured as a sampling of posts to a fanfiction list for the fictional television show "SETI Troopers," Livia builds layer upon layer of coincidence, irony, and good-natured self-parody here. And, though it's funny as hell, the overall "narrative" also manages to be by turns poignant, sweet and sexy. Snaps!
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(SA, MSR/RST, Rated R, post-The Truth, 38K)
Recommended 6-16-02
Forte: Missing scenes from "The Truth," plus a look at what happened after the fade-to-
black. Stark, painful, but gloriously painted view of our heroes at what just might be the most terrifying time of their lives. Whether you liked the finale or not, I think you'll find that "Objects in Mirror" improves upon it.
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(MSR, V, A, Post-ep for "The Truth", Rated PG, 19k)
Recommended 6-16-02
Blackwood: I must admit that this is the first JH story I've read, but it's always a pleasure
to discover a good writer. Another post-ep for "The Truth" that presents a version of M&S both gritty *and* hopeful in its depiction. It never descends into sappiness -or- brittle disappointment. Instead, we re-experience the ep with all the details CC would not/could not explore. Thank goodness for fanfic and Jean's wonderful writing.
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(MSR, Mulder POV, Post ep for "The Truth", Rated G, 4k)
Recommended 6-16-02
Blackwood: What a neat spin on "The Truth." Simple, direct, in character. Mulder
dwells on simpler times and Scully, as always, is at his side (I've missed that *so* much) with words of wisdom to which we can all relate, especially after 9/11. A lovely post-ep. Hope to see more by this writer. Thanks, Sam!
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(Rated NC-17, 43k)
Recommended 8-8-02
Blackwood: I smiled, I sighed, I cried. Rah paints elegant word pictures with phrases
that sing. Loved the descriptors, the gentle rhythms, the low key spot-on characterizations. The erotica is suggestive and lovingly crafted. Wonderful, fulfiling stuff for this battered shipper's heart o'mine. Just beautiful.
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(SA, Rated R, 16K)
Recommended 8-8-02
mountainphile: Let me say how impressed I am with Avalon's IWTB challenge story
"One Last Happy Birthday." I don't ordinarily indulge in Pendrell fic, but this writer weaves such an excellent, clever backstory for him, I was drawn right into the tale. Avalon also makes impressive use of the various elements selected for this challenge. And the MSR... seen from Pendrell's POV it simply sings, with the reader gaining an intimate, inside look at his unrequited obsession for Scully.
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(H, A, MSR, Slash, Rated R1/2, HTML format)
Recommended 9-25-02
Mish: This sequel to "M. Luder, King of 'SETI Troopers Fanfic" was a challenge fic,
believe it or not. It not only incorporates the elements of the recent Haven Challenge seamlessly, it damn well makes you laugh and cry at the same time. Livia has a definite knack for pulling this off, and I bow to her incomparable genius. As do many others, I'm certain. Excellent!
Audrey: Damn that Livia is a genius.
Mish: See? Told you so. <g>
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(V, MSR,Rated NC-17, 5k)
Recommended 9-25-02
Blackwood: This simple vignette captures the twin qualities of spirituality and sensuality
so evident in the Mulder/Scully dynamic. The phrasing is sparse, but to the point, without ever descending into crassness. The references to de Saint-Exupéry's haunting novel of the same name and Chagall's luminous painting, 'The Wedding,' play with subtlety. YMMV, but I've taken the liberty of including a visual, found here. If you stare at the image long enough, you'll see that lovers really do fly. A wonderful work from a newbie writer. C'est bon!
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(SRA, AU, WIP, Rated NC-17)
Recommended 12-8-02
Mish: I've only read the first couple of chapters of this WIP, and I've vowed to wait until
it's finished so I can savor it all in one sitting. But the little I read was lush as only Avalon can do. It's a time travel AU, with Mulder and Scully transported to the days of Camelot. Intriguing, isn't it? I don't know how I'll ever last, but I've already got the hot chocolate simmering, and the cuddly blanket at the ready!
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(A, R, K/M, Rated NC-17, 132k)
Recommended 2-26-03
Mish: I am ashamed to say, I'd never read a Krycek/Marita story before, and my
preconceptions of them as peripheral characters were totally ingrained in my MSR lovin' heart. But this story brings them to life and gives them such depth. Great re-telling of the mytharc through their eyes, with sensitivity that doesn't generate an ounce of unbelievability - or of uncharacteristic sap. Harsh at times, but rather touching at others. And yes, I'm very happy with Deslea's version of how it ended for Krycek and Marita. Love it when an author can make me feel good about the show's bad turns, and explain it in a gratifying way. Even if you're not a fan of anything but MSR, give this one a read - it's excellent work!
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(UST, Rated PG, 8k)
Recommended 5-1-03
Blackwood: Firewalker is hardly an upbeat episode and yet, bcfan manages to offer an
post-ep that had me grinning ear to ear. The thought of a BoredtoTears!Mulder and a Playful!Scully was simply too much to resist. Okay, so maybe CC & Co. would not write this, but this off-beat take gave me giggles and left me feeling warm and mushy. That's something I'll recommend any day of the week.
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(MSR, Mild MT, Rated PG, 29k)
Recommended 5-1-03
Mish: Ah, the days of UST. Flynn takes us back there with a tale of Mulder woe, as he
tries to rectify a six year mistake involving a very special day. It never ceases to amaze me how Flynn writes Mulder, as if she's standing in his shoes. <sigh> So delectable. So tender and downright lovable. Gotta love him... gotta love Flynn for such a great trip back. More!
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(VA, MSR, Rated PG-13, 11k)
Recommended 7-8-03
Forte: It's post-"all things," Scully has left, and Mulder is beyond despondent. Then
Scully communicates with him in a way that is nothing less than a thing of beauty. Keep a box of tissues handy. ::sniff::
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(MSR, DAL, Mulderangst, Rated R, 42k)
Recommended 10-26-03
Mish: I must be on some kind of Mulder kick this week. You know, the kind where you
just have to gobble up every little nuance of his gorgeous frame and quirky personality like chocolate chip cookies straight from the oven? Go for the bod first, the cookie with the most chips peeking through the top of the dough. Then turn over the cookie next to it and find the one with those melting chips on the bottom - the person underneath. What do chocolate chip cookies have to do with Mulder? Why, the answer is simple, really. "Flynn's Sinfully Delicious Mulder Cookies"tm, available in MulderLovers size at your local Flynn website! "Manly Devotion" is one of the latest varieties, chock full of enough poor, suffering, you-just-want-to-kiss-him-and-make-it-better Mulder to whet the appetite of Mulder Cookie junkies everywhere. A few almonds (this Mulder cookie is a *tad* bitter and woefully down), a smidgen of brown sugar (it's darkly sweet, unlike processed, too sweet white), and a spicy cinnamon aftertaste that knocks your socks off (well, it knocked Scully's socks off, anyway <g>) make for one mouthwatering cookie. Unlike Scully, we don't have the luxury of really experiencing them warm from the oven. But fortunately for us, all we have to do is visit Flynn's place and sample her secret recipes - which works just fine for me. Now, all I want for Christmas is another batch of Mulder Cookies. Can I get lemon-drop icing this time?
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(VA, Rated G, 23k)
Recommended 12-22-03
Blackwood: Not every story at Christmastime is a happy one. Fran doesn't specify a
time or place, but this one strikes me as a true-to-life look inside Scully's heart at a vulnerable time of year. Forgive me if it's a little on the dark side, but sometimes life is like that, you know? A short, but powerful piece of writing that I enjoyed (?) for its simplicity and truth. And that, after all, is what M&S are about, isn't it?
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