In this thread I will be recommending and reviewing various original fictions I run across on my daily travels of the internets. Enjoy. Rec #1 Title: No Education Author: JabberWock Format: Novel Length: 27 Chapters (124,000 Words) Genre: Romance Status: Complete Rating: R Warnings: Slash (M/M Relations) Link: Click Here (Fiction Press) Author's Summary: Finding out the man who asked him out in the bookstore is a history teacher at his high school leads to some unconventional teaching for Adrien. Review: Okay, this is a story I was hesitant to like at first. The writing style is a bit indecisive, constantly switching between Adrien's inner monologue in the first and third person. That, coupled with some truly cheesy dialog at times (the first chapter is the worst. If you can make it through that you're home free) can (and probably will) make some readers shy away. But as I continued to read it started to grow on me. Yes, the setting is a little cliche, but the uniqueness of the characters made me look past it. After a while you start seeing the struggle between Adrien and this forbidden romance and I couldn't help but feel for him as he started to struggle with it (though it is a little hard to tell at first). Despite it flaws there is a story worth reading here, and while it's not the most sophisticated novel I've ever read, it had many shining moments and those looking for something lighthearted will most likely enjoy it. But seriously. Very cheesy dialog ahead. Happy reading.
Rec #2 Title: Nocte Yin: A Hero Wannabe? Author: the point Format: Novel Length: 30 Chapters (172,000 Words) Genre: Fantasy Status: Complete Rating: PG-13 Warnings: Disturbing themes and graphic violence. Link: Click Here (Fiction Press) Author's Summary: Disowned by her clan, hated by heroes and feared by civilians, Nocte's only safe wherever her parents put her. And sometimes that's not the greatest of spots. Surely rescuing a princess would make it all better? That's what all spawns of Satan do, right? Review: This is one of those stories that simply takes you by surprise. Nocte is a classic anti-hero who wants to only be the actual hero. The pacing of the writing can be odd at times but is overall stream lined. As I read the story I started falling in love with Nocte (which isn't an easy task for a gay man, let me tell you.) She's well rounded, her tale is genuinely interesting and her supporting cast isn't half bad either. If you like fantasy, you'll like this novel. Happy reading.
Sokar, I'm not sure if this is the kind of Sci-Fi you were hoping for. If not I'll PM you a few of my other bookmarked stories when I get home. Rec #3 Title: Genetic Tampering Author: The Ascended Ancient Format: Novel Length: 25 Chapters (105,000 Words) Genre: Sci-Fi, Adventure Status: Complete Rating: R Warnings: Strong Language, Moderate Violence Link: Click Here (Fiction Press) Author's Summary: Our nation is not free. A secretive organization known as the Triad controls everything. Above and outside the law, the Triad does whatever it wants to. But this time, it may have gone too far... Review: Here is a novel that is a rare gem. Beautifully composed with a well thought out plot. The Ascended Ancient is a gifted story teller, and I wouldn't mind seeing this novel in print. The writing style is clear and fluid, being detailed when it needs to be while not overwhelming the reader. The character development starts off a little shaky but evens out quickly and while the pacing lacks just a bit to be desired it's nothing too strenuous. The setting isn't anything too original, and that may turn some readers off. A secret organization performing genetic experiments in a modern day United States isn't anything that hasn't been done before. None the less, The Ascended Ancient pulls it off splendidly. This is one of those stories you just want to keep reading. Recommended to anyone who likes a good adventure story. Happy reading.