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XWP Bards - J
Cape of Fear by Jam
Recommended by: Rocky - 08.24.99
Classification: Uber
Sex/Violence Content: Alt/NC-17
Length: Novella, 122 pages - Complete
Sam is at the end of her rope, leaving home for something new, she finds herself searching her soul in the mirror of the restroom of the Rainbow Bar & Dance Club. Eppi the Manger there befriends the lost young woman triggering a fear of intimacy that spirals down to a nightmare of circumstances.
"Cape of Fear" By Jam is an endearing story about two souls that come crashing together in the worst possible set of circumstances. I'd love to give you a synopsis but the intrigue that sets the tone of the story is there from the onset. The only disappointing thing about this story is that there isn't more of it. I sincerely hope there is a sequel coming soon.
...I've hear from the Author, there is a sequel in the works!
http://www.xenafiction.net/scrolls/jam_cof.hts
(A) Good Day Too by LN James
Recommended by: Anima - 08.07.99
Classification: Classic
Sex/Violence Content: Gen
Length: Short Story - Complete
This is a moving vignette that follows the last scene in A GOOD DAY. Told from Temecula's POV, it's a telling image of our warrior and bard and the notion of 'The Greater Good', as well as a very touching image of lost innocence. LN delivers a very thoughtful portrait here; it's particularly moving when read as a follow up to LN's vignette (Midnight Letter).
http://www.squonk.net/users/lnjames/goodday.htm
Queen by LN James
Recommended by: Penumbra - 08.17.99
Classification: Classic
Sex/Violence Content: Alt
Length: Novella - Complete
As all convoluted games, this one has a simple beginning. Gabrielle bets Xena she can convince a tavern's occupants that Xena is her slave. And the game is on. Through a multi-layered, delicately building game of seduction, the Amazon Queen shows the quite untameable Warrior Princess that seduction is an art form and that submission has great rewards.
Personally, I was overflowing enough to ruin a week's worth of clean underwear after finishing this story, but that's not what is so wonderful about this classic. It's the love and understanding that shines through every word, the truth that one can know someone else better than herself.
http://www.squonk.net/users/lnjames/queen1.html
From Hair to Eternity by LN James and Vivian Darkbloom
Recommended by: Anima - 10.05.99
Classification: Uber
Sex/Violence Content: Alt
Length: Short Story - Complete
Two, two, two bards in one! And two of my fav bards at that! Am I dreaming? Quick, some one pinch me. Lower. ;~)
Stash is a paranoid, sneering, experimental artiste. Carson is a horny, neurotic, hair consultant. They both have skeletons in their closet that no one in their right mind would claim! Immediately their paths cross and the stalking, er, I mean the hair consulting begins. Underscore this with a supporting cast which includes senior stylist Paolo (bitchy and too fabulous for anyone's own good-God, I love Paolo) and a cameo by Linda Fucking Tripp, and what do you have? Oh my dears, you have pure pop-melodrama of GIGANTIC proportions! A must-be-read-to-be-believed story that left this reader yearning for Chia art, tatted undies, and "down there" hair art.
Now, just because I am president of the Stash and Carson Fan Club does not mean I have *no* objectivity in this matter. I can honestly say, with complete detachment, that like Stash's Chia art, this story will grow on you. So, let us all join hands and sing of Stash and Carson. Let us light our Uber candles at the altar of LN and Viv. Let the cult begin.
http://www.squonk.net/users/lnjames/hair.htm
From Hair to Eternity by LN James and Vivian Darkbloom
Recommended by: Penumbra - 10.19.99
Classification: Uber
Sex/Violence Content: Alt
Length: Short Story - Complete
This story simply defies my archive of applicable adjectives. Or rather, it utilises all of the good ones, leaving me with scroungy ones like "good" or "fabulous" that are, quite obviously, way too one-dimensional to give this story the credit it deserves.
OK, we have here two of the funkiest, funniest writers in Xenaverse, switching into parody mode, sowing similes that absolutely defy the grammar of the English language, creating two characters as wild as their creators. Read this story, just for the heck of it, or for a mind ride no amount of good weed can provide; this is all I can say to do justice to this story. Bring your own Cheetos.
Fab, darlin'. Ta.
http://www.squonk.net/users/lnjames/hair.htm
Falling by Grit Jahning
Recommended by: Rocky - 06.02.01
Classification: Classic/Alternative Universe
Sex/Violence Content: Alt/NC-14
Length: Novel, 223 pages - Complete
This is the best 'What If' Xena story I've read in a while. What if Xena and Gabrielle grew up together? Deceptively and gently, Grit weaves a very complex and beautiful story of love and pain, while staying completely true to the characters of the classic Xena universe. I was totally spell bound by the story from beginning to end. After it was over I had
sit and regroup for a couple of minutes... Wow!
http://merwolf.com/academy/fanfic/g/grit_falling.html
Falling by Grit Jahning
Recommended by: Kamouraskan - 08.29.01
Classification: Classic/Alternative Universe
Sex/Violence Content: Alt/NC-14
Length: Novel, 223 pages - Complete
The author claims in the disclaimer that this is almost an uber, but I disagree. This is classic, although it takes place in an alternative universe. Grit Jahning (fast becoming one of my favourite writers) asks what would happen if Xena and Gabrielle had met earlier, and both our heroes had the chance at a more normal life. Adolescent Xena avoids the horrors of the raid by Cortese, and Gabrielle finds a family that loves her for who she is. Normally this would remove much of the depth to Xena's character, but the leads and peripheral roles are so lovingly rendered; Gabrielle's rescue from her brutal home life, Xena's discovery of someone to believe in her are beautifully rendered, that it instead becomes the reader's wish that they might have evaded the standard timeline. But this is also one of the sweetest romances it has been my delight to read. Touching, well written, although sometimes painful as well, this is a feast for the romantic, filled with phrases and scenes that touch the mind and heart with unerring precision.
http://merwolf.com/academy/fanfic/g/grit_falling.html
Our Reunion by Jenah
Recommended by: laler - 11.30.99
Classification: Uber
Sex/Violence Content: Alt
Length: Incomplete
When the band Sam is a member of performs at her older sister's twenty-fifth reunion, she gets a chance to meet Tina Mellekas. Having been fascinated by Tina in her high school years, Sam is determined to find out what she is really like. Tina, having been away for ten years, is not the easiest person to get to know. Simply by Sam offering her friendship, the walls around Tina start to crumble. As Tina starts to open herself up, it reinforces what Sam already knows: Tina is the one!
This is a refreshing portrait of two women who have to deal with age and the side effects that come with it whether it is a few extra pounds, gray hairs, or weakening eyesight. Jenah shows how during the process of discovering a relationship, a person can become comfortable with someone else beyond their own expectations.
http://www.fortunecity.com/rivendell/hobgoblin/688/fiction/r1.htm
(The) Third Wheel by Jenbob
Recommended by: Angharad Governal - 08.03.99
Classification: Classic
Sex/Violence Content: Alt
Length: Novella - Complete
There's something inherently wonderful about good old fashioned storytelling. It engages that part of your imagination that you swore you left behind in childhood, and woefully thought you would never again regain. The Third Wheel by Jenbob is, simply put, a good old fashioned story. The story begins shortly after the events in the XWP ep, "A Day in the Life". Our two heroines have been spending several uneventful weeks on the road, and decide that they should take a rest at the village of Trezine. As they reach their destination, trouble arises - the village is being raided by "baddies". They rush to help, and discover more than either of them expected. With lots of action, humor, and a few surprises that will keep you reading 'til past your "bed time", The Third Wheel by Jenbob is great fun and a "good
ol' read".
http://www.obsession14.com/XenaRotica/JenBob/third.htm
(The) High Pass by Jim
Recommended by: Angharad Governal - 04.28.00
Classification: Classic
Sex/Violence Content: Gen (with subtext)
Length: Short Story - Complete
Ancient Greek playwrights perfected the concept of tragedy and since that time, tragedies have been the staple of storytelling. Although Greek tragedies traditionally consisted of a very specific set of criteria, the nature and scope of what constitutes tragedy has attained a gut-wrenching familiarity that both echoes the ancient creation, as well as expanding into something of a more contemporary nature. The High Pass is a wonderful and vibrant example of the contemporary concept of tragedy which also echoes the ancient
tradition. Our warrior and bard, having spent several months fighting a nocturnal terror in the Carpathian mountains, now find themselves journeying back across famine stricken lands towards Greece. The trek lasts for nearly three months and it is in the journeying that both our heroes are tested physically and psychologically. Readers, along with Xena and Gabrielle, are taken along a road that renews and reaffirms hope and faith. A great read.
http://www.xenafiction.net/scrolls/jim_thp.hts
One Last Breath by JLynn
Recommended by: Temora - 05.12.01
Classification: Classic
Sex/Violence Content: Alt
Length: Short Story, 8 pages - Complete
Reading this story actually made my breathing slow down, if you can believe it. The first offering by supremely talented newcomer, JLynn, One Last Breath is a vignette told from Xena's perspective as she and the bard are crucified at the end of the episode The Ides Of March. Often excruciating to read, this tale is a beautifully written and powerful look at what could very realistically have been the last thoughts of the warrior on that dreadful day as she struggles to remain alive purely for the sake of her partner. Don't miss it, it's like a punch in the gut. (Of the literary kind)
http://www.futuremuse.com/xena/stories/onelastbreath.htm
Storms of War by JLynn
Recommended by: Kamouraskan - 03.04.02
Classification: Classic
Sex/Violence Content: Alt/PG-13
Length: Novel, 441 pages - Complete
If ever there was a story that probably should not be reviewed by me or on this site, it is this one. I was one of the beta readers for it on two lists, it was workshopped on the Bardic Circle which sponsors Blurb, and the author is the webmistress for this site. Can't get anymore incestuous than that, can you? Unfortunately for my scruples, this is a great work, as Lunacy recognised when she recently gave it that most coveted of (and recently almost unknown) distinction, a place on her Highest Recommendations page.
Storms of War may be one of the last great epics produced by the Xenaverse as we knew it, and to read its ninety seven chapters is to be reminded why these
characters drew us in, and of the talent that they attracted and inspired. It begins as a small story of a stoic warrior, and her companion, a young Bard. It expands to take on a rich panorama of a city at war and under siege, with characters that hold their own with our heroes. Most amazing of all, it gets better with each chapter.
Taking place in the early seasons of the show, Storms of War is like most of the classic stories, about Xena and Gabrielle being tested on all sides. Their feelings for and loyalty towards each other, their weaknesses and strengths, all brought out in battle and mental warfare. Along the way, Jlynn brings the reader directly into contact with the sights and sounds of battle, and the emotional wear and tear of love and friendship. It requires a commitment of time due to its length, but it richly rewards every moment. The only way to sum up the story for you is to simply say, epic.
http://merwolf.com/academy/fanfic/j/jlynn_stormsofwar1.html
Dead My Ash by Joanna
Recommended by: Ann Braxton - 01.11.02
Classification: Classic/Paraody
Sex/Violence Content: Alt
Length: Short Story, 8 pages - Complete
A Master of Xenaverse parody has done it again. Joanna''s ""Dead, My Ash"" has Xena fighting a battle with Gabrielle to stay dead. Apparently Gab's main competition for Xena is...Death. Anyhow, the Bard has her tricks and the help of a couple of Souls who in a self-serving way team up with a ‘‘powerful goddess of the future''. Xena’s Ghost's attempt at intimidation of the Bard is hilarious but Gab's show of force is much more deadly. You have to be alert as the barbs come a mile a minute. A really sly dig at a certain manipulating hussy, with an homage to Gone With the Wind, will have you in stitches. The dialog between X’s G & G is priceless.
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GABRIELLE
Out of the way, Xena
Xena's ghost ....trying to keep Gabrielle from getting to the ashes
XENA'S GHOST
Booga booga!
GABRIELLE (sarcastic)
Oh, that's frightening
XENA'S GHOST
Give me a break. I'm new
SOUL VOICE #2
Look, I can see grace! And boy is she hot!
SOUL VOICE
That's not grace, that's Xena. Look over there. See the place where the fat guy in the spangly jumpsuit is singing? That's the land of grace.
SOUL VOICE #2
Don't be cruel.
XENA'S GHOST
Do something, you idiots! She's almost got the ashes!
Gabrielle has indeed been working hard, shoving the still hot ashes into the urn.
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And Gab''s bid for Comedy Central falls flat even with the errant Souls. Who wouldn''t be happy with this Ending.? Go there if you want to read it.
http://cousinliz.com/fanfic/joanna_dma.html
Heroes by Joanna
Recommended by: Taleweaver - 03.20.01
Classification: Uber
Sex/Violence Content: Gen/PG-13
Length: Complete
Although this is an older story, written in January of 1999, it is in no way lessened. "Heroes" is a parody of the popular show "Cops" and without a doubt, it's a gas!
Xena and Gabrielle pursue a warlord in true "Cops" fashion, and it's a chase for your funnybone, believe me. There are so many gems in this story that I can't share too many without giving away the story, but here is just a glimpse of Joanna's sense of humor...
Xena (shouting): "We're in pursuit! Do your thing Gabrielle!"
Gabrielle starts imitating a siren as they chase the warlord.
With Joanna's bardic record,she could probably take a grocery list and have it emerge as a side splitter. With a foot chase, a helpful warlord who appears to be a henbane dealer and a dumpling stop for our heroes, I feel I should warn you not to drink anything while you read this. So put down the danish and coffee and enjoy Joanna's "Heroes".
http://cousinliz.com/fanfic/joanna_h.html
Resa by Journs
Recommended by: Rocky - [08.20.99] 11.02.99
Classification: Uber
Sex/Violence Content: Alt/PG-13
Length: Novel, 447 pages - Complete
This one picks you up and never lets you back down again. Set in the Barrio of East LA a young blonde college student ( Jennifer ) is running for her life from the gangs. The only thing standing between her and death is a six foot brunette ( Resa ) former gang leader, and a convent full of nuns.
http://ausxip.com/fanfiction/r/resa.html
Hunting Clarion - Book one of the Vampire Hunter Series by JP
Recommended by: Rocky - 02.19.00
Classification: Uber
Sex/Violence Content: Alt/NC-17
Length: Novel, 353 pages - Complete
Move over Annie there's a new blood in town! I have to admit that this one had me hooked from the get-go. Don't let the size of it scare you off I flew through this one, and am eagerly seeking more. Please Jp, I sure hope the next book is well on it's way 'cause I can hardly wait!
Yoshima Miakoda is a Hunter, protector of the innocent, slayer of vampires. The product of nearly a millennium of living after being adopted by Japanese parents. All that she has come to believe in is rudely turned upside down in the form of a Gallery worker named Clarion Larieux. Their meeting is unusual to say the least, as Yoshi saves Clarion from the grasp of a gang of vampires. Yoshi has a hidden past... but so does Clarion.
The subtle dance these two weave around each other is fun, fast paced, and enthralling. Even non-goth fans will enjoy this one.
http://www.merwolf.com/academy/fanfic/j/jp_vampireclarion1.html
Practical Lies by JP
Recommended by: Vivian Darkbloom - 05.04.00
Classification: Uber
Sex/Violence Content: Alt
Length: Novel - Complete
I liked this story because it has all sorts of nasty stuff in it, and for some reason that appeals to me. (And while it may also be appealing to psychoanalyze me, I think reading the story would be far more entertaining.) It has guns, drugs, violence, murder, sex, more violence, and a cynical, hard-boiled narrator named Charlie who is trying to protect a cute rich bitch named Wade from forces unknown, and to get the bothersome girl to the safety of her nefarious, corrupt but (one assumes) loving daddy. An unforeseen death and a certain black book add to the complications. The writing is smart and funny; it's a good read and worth ignoring the work piled on your desk.
http://www.merwolf.com/academy/fanfic/j/jp_whitelies.html
(The) Edge of the World by Judy/Wishes
Recommended by: Yernod - 08.17.99
Classification: Uber
Sex/Violence Content: Alt
Length: Vignette - Complete
One of the latest offerings from prolific author Wishes, this beautiful little vignette reveals a master's touch despite a deceptively simple style. "The Edge of the World" is a story of survival and choices, beginning with the fateful decision to put the women and children passengers of a doomed, sinking ship into the only lifeboat and launch them into the night. Long-presumed dead, a chance sighting leads to their rescue, and the women and children leave the island that has been their home for the past three years -- three years that might as well have been an eternity, for the changes time has wrought.
As her nameless characters offer few details of their ordeal (one woman, asked how they survived, replies only that "they did what needed to be done"), so does the author reveal her clues sparingly. The economy of words, however, suits the story, and enhances its appeal.
If "The Edge of the World" were a painting, it would be a collaboration between artist and viewer; in sure, swift strokes, Wishes has provided the canvas and the characters, while leaving the viewer (or reader) to complete the portrait, filling in the shadows and adding the background to his or her satisfaction. Though "Edge" takes only a few minutes to read, you'll likely ponder its characters and your own interpretation of them for some time.
http://www.ausxip.com/fanfic4/theedge.html
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