What Are We Reading Now? - Hide in Plain Sight by @FangMom

Hide in Plain Sight By @FangMom
Review by SwedenSara
 

Have any of you ever crushed on an actor when you were a teen, dreaming about meeting him and having him fall in love with you? Yeah, I guessed so. Next question: how many of you has done that as a grown up? Yeah, I guessed I’m not alone in doing that… I’m well over 30, and have this silly infatuation with an actor who’s about 10 years younger than me, maybe even more. I think you can all guess his name, right?

Hide in Plain Sight allows me to indulge in those fantasies without making me feel like a creep. This is a story where a middle-aged Bella, only a couple of years older than me, meets the young, hot actor Edward, known from the Zombie Killers movies.

Edward Cullen has been thrown into the life of a huge celebrity without really being prepared for it. In the beginning of the story we meet him as a tired, overworked and confused young man with an increasing addiction to pills. Edward can’t sleep, he misses his family and friends in England, and he’s constantly hounded by fans and paparazzi. He’s stuck in a relationship of convenience with Jane, his co-star in Zombie Killers, and he doesn’t have much of a social life. He spends his days working, and rarely meets people other than his body guards, Emmett and Jasper, his personal assistant, Alice, and Jane and her personal assistant, Rosalie.

“Deodorant, hair spray, hair gel, hair wax, toothpaste, mouthwash, dental floss, blemish cream (how did I still manage to get zits at 27?), five bottles of cologne, eight bottles of perfume, moisturizer – why the hell did we need all this crap anyway? Life was so much simpler before Hollywood – a bar of soap and a stick of deodorant was all I had needed.” (Edward Cullen)

Bella is living her life as a house wife and stay-at-home mom. She is married to her high school sweetheart, Jacob Black, and the mother of their seventeen year old daughter, Claire. She is expected to play the part of a corporate wife, a well groomed and perfect hostess, tending to her husband’s and daughter’s needs. Over the years she has adapted to her role, suppressing her own self and moulding into a shape that pleases her husband.

“I glanced down at the tank-top and cut-off denim shorts I was wearing. No, Jake definitely would not approve of this outfit. I kept it, and a couple of others like it, stuffed in the back of a drawer and only wore it when he was away.” (Bella Black)

Jacob, on the other hand, is rarely home. He is busy with very successful career as a financial advisor, and has a helpful hand in his personal assistant Leah who follows him everywhere. Jacob has a habit of inviting his clients to barbecues and dinner parties, which he expects Bella to organize. When Jacob manages to seal the deal as Edward Cullen’s financial advisor, he gives him a standing invitation to stay with his family whenever he needs time away from his hectic life. Edward takes the offer, and joins the Black’s for a weekend.

“When we had eaten our fill, Jake rose from the table and suggested that he and I adjourn to the living room.

"Let's leave the ladies to their cleaning up, eh?" he said, winking at me.” (Edward Cullen)

When Bella and Edward meet, they have an instant connection, and a friendship starts to grow between them. They are both stuck in a life they don’t particularly want, and the relief of having someone to confide in brings them closer. As time goes by it gets harder for them to ignore the depth of their feelings, but with Bella being married, and Edward busy with filming, will they ever be able to admit their emotions and give full expression to their passion?

FangMom does an amazing job in portraying both the life of a hunted celebrity, and that of an isolated house-wife. She manages to spice it up with well thought out snippets of reality: events and things we recognize from Robert Pattinson and Kristen Stewart. The famous Stoli tee makes a very welcome appearance. Her writing is impeccable with an easy flow and lovely details.

FangMom manages to make the fantasy of an actor falling in love with a slightly older woman plausible. She allows us to dream a little more, and imagine that maybe; just maybe, it can happen to us, as well.

What Are We Reading Now? - First and Ten by @Nolebucgrl

First and Ten By @nolebucgrl
Review by eli-21

Here I was in the big time, and I was about to take my first steps into the locker room to interview the one and only Edward Cullen.

I’m going to give you some advice: ignore that quote. Why? Because this story starts with what would work perfectly as a one-shot, but then goes back to where it all began. A.k.a The most interesting part. I’m not sure the author said this at first, but I would have liked to know before I went to read chapter two  and she said, “So we're going back in time a couple months to show how Edward & Bella first met.” Yeah, I would’ve liked to start there. I mean, we know they’re (probably) going to end up together, but I’m one of those readers who skip the prologue because it shows something I don’t need. Or maybe it’s just me? Anyway, I’m just saying… if you want to start at the beginning, skip chapter one. If you’re looking for a hot O/S read it, and whenever you’re ready for a long-chaptered story, go to chapter two. Easy, right?

Now let’s get to it!

I love sports-related fics. First & Ten starts with a romance that leads to the moment when Edward, “hottest quarterback in the league”, and Bella, who’s “stuck covering high school sports and stat checking” for the Arizona Republic, meet in a crowded club. Of course, that night doesn’t end very well, but the next day starts way better.

What I really like about this story is its main characters, Edward and Bella. He’s not your typical man-whore quarterback, and she’s not the usual weak and fragile or traumatized girl. First & Ten runs in both points of view, which gives us a good opportunity to know both characters and the way they interact with the others.

Author Nolebucgrl uses another character in the most intelligent way. Emmett is usually the best friend of the reader, the guy who everyone loves, and First Ten’s Emmett is no exception. He’s so hilarious, calling Edward names. And not just any names. “For every photo shoot and fawning article, Emmett managed to find yet another nickname for me. Besides those two—Heisman and Most Beautiful—, I was GQ, Cosmo, Playboy (though of course it was Playgirl that wanted me to pose, I'd shot that down right away), Harper's Bazaar… you name it, Emmett was on top of it. I think he subscribed to every magazine that might print my picture just for fodder.” Like I said: hilarious.

So the point is to follow the story and reach the scene in Chapter 1 again, but in the opposite point of view, then continue with the story. There’s also an Emmet-take at the end. Good fun! Enjoy this story, and don’t forget to review and tell Nolebucgrl I sent you.

What Are We Reading Now? - Step Right Up by @FoxxyJ73

Step Right Up By @FoxxyJ73
Review by shelikesthesound

Ah, you'll get used to seeing that and more. Magic is a regular fixture here, the only thing that changes is the chick that's hanging off him.

Bella is content to live with her father, hiding from the world while it passes her by. After trying and failing to find a job, she is forced to join the circus. At first, she is resentful that she has to travel with her overbearing mother—something she did as a child.  However, a few friends from back home, as well as a new acquaintance, make circus life bearable. One night, she discovers the resident Magic man, Edward. His prowess with the ladies is legendary, and she witnesses it firsthand. She knows that he’s the type of guy she should avoid, but the strange pull she feels toward him is hard to deny.

I have to admit, a story that has Edward and Bella involved with a circus was hard for me to pass up. I mean, really, the potential of Edward in tights was reason enough. Yet, as I began the first chapter, I found out there was so much more to this story. FoxxyJ has created characters that everyone can identify with. You want to be best buds with Jake, hope James gets eaten by a tiger, and wish you could tell Renee off. There is so much that goes on behind the scenes when the crowd isn’t present, and it’s like you have an all access pass to the madness.

The unresolved sexual tension is palpable and very well written. You can almost feel Bella’s innocent frustrations as she tries to understand why she feels so drawn to Edward, even though he’s content to be with a different woman every night. Bella is determined to fight the strange attraction between them, however difficult it may be.

The topic is researched well, and it shows. The author paints a vivid picture of what it’s like to be a performer in the circus, mostly from the perception of the trapeze artists. The difficult maneuvers they have to perform are explained in great detail, and it’s almost like you’re watching it as it happens.

If you aren’t already reading this story, you are missing out. It has romance, drama, and two characters you can’t help but hate. It’s hard not to feel bad for Bella as she tries to figure out her feelings, but watches as Edward whores around. Yet, as she becomes more confident, you can’t help but cheer her on.

So, the burning question is—does Edward finally pull his head out of his ass and notice Bella? Will they get together and have their happily ever after? I know, but I’m not telling. You’ll have to go read it and find out for yourself. 

What Are We Reading Now - Lost Cause by @bonnysammy

Lost Cause By @bonnysammy
Review by SwedenSara

The sound of liquid dripping onto leaves leaked into my consciousness, waking me from what felt like an extremely deep slumber. My head was heavy and foggy. I was confused and disoriented. I opened my eyes to find myself lying prostrate on the leaf-covered ground of a very wet, very green forest. I scoured my brain for some recognition of my surroundings, but I wasn't in a familiar place. Of course, the haze and drowsiness filling my head didn't help illuminate my current situation.

One day, a woman wakes up alone, lost in a forest. As she slowly regains conscience, she realizes she is not only lost in the literal sense, but also figuratively. She has only two recollections: one being her name, the other being her age. After hours of wandering in circles, mysteriously finding herself coming back to the same place over and over again, she finally gives up and settles on the ground, crying and waiting for the lonely death she is sure is approaching.

After a while – I was not sure quite how long, but my tears had run dry and my sobbing had turned to strained whimpers – I heard a soft voice, an angel’s call, chime from the forest.

"Hello . . . Is anyone there?" The female voice sounded like a cherub, a pleasant and musical soprano.

The woman in the woods, Bella, is found and saved by Alice, Carlisle and Esme—but is it merely by accident, sheer luck or maybe something else? They take her home, care for her and offer their house and help to find out who she is.

As this story unfolds we realize this is a much more complex and intricate web than it seems. The author carefully sets the stage for the story, keeping some things strictly canon and some loosely based on it. The characters are well developed, and even though Bella is a mystery, she is incredibly easy to take in. She is trying desperately to grasp her past, as she also learns that the things she always thought were nothing but fairytales and legends are actually true. Her confusion is palpable as she discovers some facts about herself that she doesn’t know how to handle.

Bonnysammy’s writing is excellent, and her story is something as rare as it is is intelligent, different and innovative, yet very much in canon. For me, reading “Lost Cause” creates a need to find out more, to see where Bella comes from and where the story takes her.

What Are We Reading Now? - Ride by kris salvador

Ride By kris salvador
Review by ssarrahh

I'd satisfied a craving, a curiosity. I'd had a fantasy fulfilled and it was good. So good I didn't think anything or anyone could ever top it. But for all its worth, I didn't think I was going to repeat the experience. Once is enough.

I didn't know how wrong I'd be…

I just want to start out by saying that I am a huge sucker for an awesome Badboyward and Straightlacedella, and kris salvador’s Ride definitely delivers.

Bella is the good girl. She is the apple of her police chief father’s eye and plans to follow in his footsteps in a career of criminal law. After a completely lackluster love life with Jacob Black and a recounting of an incident where her roommate, Rosalie, gets groped on a train, Bella finds herself fantasizing about what it would be like to be the object of a complete stranger’s affection in a crowded carriage.

Edward has spent his entire life as an outsider in the elite of upper society. Bored with life and grief stricken by his mother’s death, Edward turns to the world of crime. With the help of his best friend, Jasper, they both slowly build up an empire of selling stolen cars. However, when Edward falls in love with an undercover cop, his world falls apart, and he is sent to prison for eight years for two of his robberies.

The way Edward and Bella meet is one of the greatest I’ve ever read. A train encounter that makes it impossible to not love the sexy fun times these two share. I’m not even going to lie. This story is hot and definitely not your grandmother’s fanfiction. Even after the first chapter, the author writes the sexual tension so thick that you’re hoping these characters release that tension quickly and do they ever!

Kris salvador was able to hook me from the summary alone. The author’s superbly written words have me craving for the next chapter, and I’m totally intrigued to see how Bella and Edward can have a relationship under such unusual circumstances. Will Bella be able to oversee Edward’s criminal background, and will they start a happy life together? Will Edward the bad boy break her heart? Or my favorite scenario, will Bella join in on Edward’s criminal ways?

There are so many different directions the author can take this story, and I’m so thrilled to see where she takes it.

I can honestly say I have no complaints about this story. It was extremely well written and a plot that leaves me begging for more. Kris salvador is definitely an author to keep on your radar. I know I surely will!

What Are We Reading Now? - The Trick Is To Keep Breathing

The Trick Is To Keep Breathing
by McGee42
Review by: idealistic4ever

"When I'm not sure what I'm living for, I see a flash of your brown irises across my mind's eye and I am tied to this existence once more."

"My heroine, my heroin, you have never seen yourself clearly; please allow me one final time to tell you how perfect you are."

Have you ever been told that there are two sides to every story? This is one of the most important things we can understand—the context in which we live, the choices we make, the challenges we face, it’s all about perspective. Self-inflicted or not, shared experiences are never articulated word for word by multiple voices. This is never truer than for Bella as she tries to muddle her way through the trials and tribulations of dealing with a single choice—a choice she had no control over.

“I almost died today, and the last thing I thought about was you, goddamnit.”

Set just after Edward leaves Bella in New Moon, author McGee explores the idea of a single choice from multiple perspectives in The Trick is to Keep Breathing. While we all know the story backwards and forwards, McGee’s unique overhaul gives readers access to short, intense bursts of reality as a result of Edward’s singular vision of making his decision for Bella, for the greater good.

While we know that Bella breaks down physically and emotionally after the Cullens’ mass exodus, McGee’s beautifully written words, edged with a certain darkness, really drives this visual home.

“When I sleep, I dream of you in the forest; inching your cool hand down my cheek, kissing me softly, and then turning from me and leaving. Again, and again, every damn time that I close my eyes.”

In order to understand the full extent of the pain, sorrow, and eventual path to recovery, it is important to step outside of the choice and observe. This is exactly what McGee does through letters and emails written, even text messages and notes, to and from various characters that are directly and indirectly impacted as a result of Edward’s choice. Angela knows there is something really wrong but Bella won’t budge. Alice puts all the pieces together and she’s angry. Charlie and Renee are struggling with how to deal with the new hollow version of their daughter.

“I'm worried about her…It's like she died and became a zombie or something.”

“I don't blame Jasper for what happened...I blame you…”

“I'm worried about our baby girl.”

The Trick is to Keep Breathing is concise in length, but full of intensity, humor and heartbreak. Bella discovers that life does in fact move on, and while she never stops thinking of Edward and the Cullens’, that small period of time in her short human life never fades.

If the ties that bind are any indication of Edward being bound to Bella, albeit from afar, McGee goes for broke in her deeply moving and heartbreaking story. Some might call it a tragedy, but this reader holds to the beauty of observing the story from all sides, in essence understanding the story behind the tragedy.

“Your happiness was the reason for my existence…I am free.”

What Are We Reading Now? - Breathe

Breathe
by cocomama101
Review by: MsRobPattzMasen

“Of course I wanted to see Edward again—the thought of not seeing him again was almost too much to bear—but I was afraid . Afraid that I wanted him so much more than I should. Afraid of becoming addicted to the sense of awakening he gave me when it could only become a fleeting reality. The dreams had been safe, controlled. But these feelings were so real and intense that it felt like I was in danger of losing that control. I would be at the mercy of him if I let him anywhere near my heart, and I just couldn't do it. I couldn't tolerate one more ounce of heartache. I could not lose the small semblance of control I had left in my life.”

Edward Cullen’s life is far from perfect—dysfunctional family on a whole new level, messed up friends, and a reputation of shame—but that is all about to change. He’s about to start a whole new life this fall at college in New York. Edward’s counting down the days 'til freedom, when tragedy strikes, turning his whole family’s life upside down. He ends up stuck at UW, just a few hours from home, and is cast into the life he hoped to leave behind.

Bella Swan’s life with her mother and step-father is less than ideal. No child should ever have to live walking on eggshells, but it’s the only life she’s ever known. After years of pain and suffering, it comes to the final head, crashing her world even more than before and sending her to live in Forks with the father she’s never known.

While Edward tries to find a light and a diversion in his life, all Bella wants to do is try and find her "new normal." From the first time they meet, they are both stricken with longing for one another, but Bella’s past makes her keep him at arm’s length.

Cocomama101 –besides having one of the best pennames ever- is an artist at writing angst. Even though I write fluff, my preferred reading comes with a tissue warning, and >Breathe is no disappointment. It has loads of heart clenching moments and how she adds tiny moments of humor I’ll never know, but it just works! I’m a sucker for a good Edward POV, and hers is fantastic. I just want to hug him. He is highly misunderstood by the world around him, making him hide behind a cocky exterior. As an outsider, you might view him as a jerk, but his mind tells a different story of a broken, caring soul.

I know angst is not everyone’s cup of tea, but I am shocked that more people don’t read this story. These characters warm your heart even as it breaks with them.

Will Edward be able to let his cocky wall down long enough to show Bella his true soul? And if he does, will Bella be able to let the past go and give him a chance? I sure hope for both of these things, and I hope you continue with me and this wonderful author as we find out.

P.S. It also has one of the most awesome Alices EVER! 

What Are We Reading Now? - Identity

Identity
by Mimi-Love-4ever
Review by: sbsp92

“Incident. The mere word had me cringing in fear. All of the nerves that been fluttering around in my stomach turned into something much deeper than that. I had a bad feeling. I knew whatever the incident was, it would get bad really quickly.”

Renee sends Bella to Forks to live with her father, Charlie, because people are searching for them after someone leaked information from inside the Volturi Corporation. Bella receives a few things to keep her safe while with her dad like a high protection car, an untraceable cell phone, and an ominous message: "Do not compromise your position or hers". When Bella first arrives at her new home, she is very timid and cautious, trying to keep her identity a secret. The first person she runs into in the sleepy town is none other than Edward Cullen, and the chemistry is almost instant. Soon Bella is faced with another problem— keeping her identity a secret from her new close friends: Rosalie, Alice, Emmett, Jasper, and Edward.


Author, Mimi-Love-4ever, first captured my attention with the suspenseful preface and peaked my interest more with each chapter. I love the way Bella and Edward meet because I've never read them meeting in this way before or found one as funny at the same time. When reading each chapter of Identity, I look forward to multiple things, whether it's a certain character or where the end of the chapter will take the story. I'm also looking forward to reading when the people catch up to Bella.


Will Bella be able to keep her identity from her friends? Or will the truth destroy the friendships she has made?

What Are We Reading Now? - Someone Like You

Someone Like You
by KekahJ
Review by: Lulu M

I know this is wrong. I know we shouldn't be here. But do you know how long I've been waiting? Do you know how long I've been looking for someone like you?

He was a doctor about to marry his childhood sweetheart. She was a writer who moved away from her home for a boy. Both involved in relationships where they thought they couldn’t do any better. Until they met one another under unlikely circumstances.

It was supposed to be one of the happiest times in his life. Edward Cullen has proposed to his long time girlfriend, Tanya Denali. Though he is convinced he loves her, as he should considering how long they’ve been together, he can’t help being repulsed by her strawberry lips and callous attitude.

An affluent freelance writer around Phoenix, Bella Swan has been with her boyfriend, James Denali, since they had crossed paths in college. Not knowing any better in her young life, she tries to suppress her yearnings for the green landscape of home in favor of James’ selfishness.

In a chance encounter, fate decides to bring Edward and Bella together where a dangerous attraction occurs.

Author, KekahJ, captures a certain sort of desperation in our two antagonists—desperation to remain true to their significant others, desperation to live what their lives have brought them, and desperation for one another. KekahJ guides us through a series of events that lead Edward and Bella toward a downward spiral into alcohol for one, and a sense of freedom for the other. Her characters grow and change according to their experiences and who they are, which KekahJ never loses sight of.

The angst is palpable. KekahJ thrusts it into your heart and makes you ache till tears fall from your eyes. It’s hard to breath around the fear and anxiety as we watch Edward and Bella’s world fall apart. Even as one life is bettered, it is still hard to catch our breath as we watch the other fall into black oblivion.

As Edward and Bella start this new part of their lives, their need for each other never diminishes, and four months after their fateful first meeting, they find one another again. But the hurt that has lived in their hearts for so long is enough to keep them from wanting to take that leap.

Should they decide to get together, will that be the end of their angst? Or in true KekahJ fashion, will it grow beyond control?

What Are We Reading Now? - Sins of the Piano Man

Sins of the Piano Man
by solareclipses
Review by: smexy4smarties

Try as I might to memorialize my innocent victims, my efforts were inadequate in the end. They were still dead. The music didn't bring them back from the dirty, makeshift graves I'd given them.

Edward Cullen tried so hard to give to society. He drank the blood of the despicable, the criminals, the perverse. He subjected himself to their thoughts and did a service to mankind as he drained the life from those who didn't deserve souls. So it was fair to say that one night a month, he should get a break—the twelfth night of every month. On this night, he wouldn't seek out the worst, but instead the best, the innocent. He would get his reward. 

At least, that's how he rationalized it to himself.

One girl, a flash of blue eyes and wild wisps of brown hair, changed everything for him. Her thoughts were flighty and sweet and perfect. She would be his. He had her alone, and she was more than willing; she was too distracted to care how obviously inhuman he was. He didn't mind that she was oblivious . . . until her thoughts touched on the cause of her unease. Renée Swan was pregnant. He couldn't kill a child.

But he almost had, and that alone was enough to bring a familiar fact to the forefront of Edward Cullen's mind—he was, without doubt, a monster. And he couldn't do it anymore. He would find some other way.

Twenty-one years later, Isabella Swan is falling apart. She jobless, hopeless, and possibly soon to be parentless. She'd given up the idea of Renée being her parent long ago, but now, Charlie has cancer, and the reality of her being alone in the world is becoming imminent.

Edward's in Seattle hoping to teach another musician how to play a piece he's composed for a past victim. Bella's newly twenty-one and just got fired—alcohol in Seattle with the girls doesn't seem like such a bad idea. Her blood is undeniably tantalizing and her mind is silent to him, but can Edward afford to have another life on his conscience?

Sins of the Piano Man by solareclipses is possibly one of the most poignant AUs currently being written. The author's ability to weave an interesting plotline while still leaving time to dissect the faults and motivations of each character bears the mark of a true storyteller. She doesn't only focus on Edward and Bella, which is refreshing to see; even characters such as Lauren—the stereotypical mean girl in most fan fiction—are depicted as real people, with both flaws and redeeming qualities intact. Everything about solareclipses' writing style draws the reader in.

Edward's not yet sure if he's merely following Bella or hunting her, but she intrigues him to no end. How will he react when he finds that this girl was the catalyst in his quest to be better, that this girl was the reason he began to atone for his sins?

What Are We Reading Now - Take A Chance

Take A Chance
by blindedbythesun134
Review by: idealistic4ever

"Don't leave now; I haven't gotten the chance to talk to you yet." 
"I don't make it a habit to give away personal information to a complete stranger." 
 I wished that I could throw caution to the wind and take a chance with Edward. I wished that I could act on the irrational feelings I had for him.

Some people just grow up knowing what they want to do in life. They have a plan and they execute it. For Bella Swan, becoming a doctor is her plan—it’s the plan and it defines everything about her.

A decision that she made at the end of her high school career led Bella through six years of college and medical school. Now that her classroom training is complete, it’s time for her to get a little more hands on as she prepares to take on her medical residency.

Bella knows that her already busy life is about to get busier. The life of a first year resident leaves little time for socializing let alone enough time to just hear your own thoughts. Days before she is to begin her residency, Bella is already mentally prepping herself for social isolation. Little does she know that her plan is about to get revised.

Edward has recently gotten the brush off by one of the most amazing women he has ever met. He thought they had a connection, but when she doesn’t call, he can’t hide his disappointment and confusion. Little does he know that his phone number was thrown away to avoid the temptation of calling him.

Take a Chance is a sweet, unsuspecting story about a girl who meets a boy. It’s a journey of discovery as Bella finds that meeting Edward wasn’t a case of right place at the wrong time, rather it was the right place at the right time. She just needs a little help making that discovery, and Edward is all too willing to help her with that task. Author blindedbythesun134 has taken a simple story and woven her own unique twist as she plays with some of our fandom’s most beloved characters.

Life isn’t completely linear; there are bumps and twists and turns that keep us constantly on our toes. It is often cause for making the last second decision to turn right instead of left. For Bella, the first day of her residency is one of those instances. Will she choose to go right toward her plan, or will she go left and take a chance?

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What Are We Reading Now? - Beyond the Seventh Circle

Beyond the Seventh Circle
by Amelie Gray
Review by: SwedenSara

“He felt drunk, weaving back and forth as the very floor seemed to stagger beneath his feet. Her blood was much better than any wine; more potent and drugging, and utterly addictive. Even though he had just been at her neck, letting his teeth tear effortlessly through her silken skin, and felt the endless stream of ambrosia wetting his lips, he still felt the hunger.”

Beyond the Seventh Circle by Amelie Gray began as a prompt fic. YellowGlue provided the sentence that spun off an utterly captivating tale of a dark and evil Edward, and a frail and silent Bella.

When this story begins, Bella is a human part of the wolf pack. Using her as bait they lure vampires in to capture and kill. She is unhappy with her shielded existence and Jacob’s plans for her life. Edward is a blood-drinking member of a coven, lead by a much unexpected version of Jasper. The coven is leading a dark, secret existence, deep below the surface of the world known to man.

The first time they meet, Bella is waiting for Edward in a darkened staircase. She is ready to sell him her blood and let him feed from her, while her wolf family waits in the dark to make their move. Edward’s first taste renders him unable to pull himself away from her sweet pulsating blood, and he’s captured and imprisoned. His mission from then on is evident: to escape and take the silent girl with him, to bring her down to the hell where he lives.

“He was going to learn everything about her…and then, he was going to crush in that little skull so those brown eyes wouldn't open again.”

Amelie Gray doesn’t give us the background and personalities of her characters at once. She is painting their portraits little by little, and it’s completely stunning. Every chapter gives us a snippet of information, and raises new questions that keep me reading, caring and wanting more. Her carefully chosen words create a beautiful web that draws me in entirely.

This story has one of the darkest Edwards I’ve ever seen, and I find myself strangely addicted to him - like my own personal brand of heroin. If you give him a chance, you’ll see what I mean…

What Are We Reading Now? - Let Him In

Let Him In
by Lezlee
Review by: MsRobPattzMasen


He gasped. "You're not afraid?" He was shocked.
"I am," I answered, sincerely. I was still trembling, even though I had no idea what was happening.
"Do not be afraid of me," he said. "I will not hurt you. I am sorry."
Then he ran away, up the stairs and out of sight.

In Let Him In, Bella Swan has a never changing life. It’s comfortable. Days of grey, weekends of fun. She lives in a routine. One night, on a spring of chance, her routine falters. What happens then you might ask? She has a freak encounter with a stranger in a dark alley. He is intent on becoming her doom, but out of the blue stops. All of a sudden her captor seems to feel remorse and shame.

Same as it would any normal person, Bella is shaken mentally to the point of insanity. Her fear takes over her and her routine. Just when she feels she can’t break much further, there is a visitor at her door one fateful night… In her mind it seems like the end, but maybe it’s only the beginning.

I leave my summery discreet because I don’t want to ruin the toss and turns this amazing journey of a story beholds. LezLee is a true talent to behold. She tells an AU farfetched story, which somehow seems realistic. It shows, what I believe to be, canon Bella at an older age, and a different Edward, yet with his same charm.

From the beginning to end I was addicted; read fourteen chapters in one day. It has such a way of pulling you in and taking you through the ups and downs. I found myself jumping in excitement, getting goose bumps in fear, oh, and yelping at a certain –cough- moment.

I would highly suggest this story to anyone looking for something new. It's an idea I haven’t ever heard told this way, or this good.

Who’s at the door? What will it mean for Bella? And, more importantly, will it be her doom or true beginning? 

What Are We Reading Now? - Forsaken In My Mind's Past

Forsaken In My Mind's Past
by WickedCurveBall74
Review written by smexy4smarties


The most disturbing part was that I didn't want to walk back to Jake. I didn't want to talk to Jake, and I didn't want to leave this bar with Jake. I wanted to get lost, and disappear...with Edward.

 Let's get this out there right off the bat, girls'n'boys: today we're venturing into one of the fandom's dark alleys. Some of us traipse up and down this alley with our head held high, staring everyone down and just daring them to say something. Others slink along the walls, hoping no one notices where we are and what we're doing. And then there are those that aren't even willing to set a foot in. I respect that, so here's your fair warning: this fic's about cheating on your significant other. Leave if you need to—no one will judge. Everyone else, follow me.

Bella Swan hated Edward Cullen—she reminded herself of this fact constantly. She'd loved him once, when he was sweet and caring and perfect for her. Now, Bella couldn't look at him without remembering that night and the phone call that destroyed them.

This is Victoria, sweetie. I made your man very, very happy the other night.

Bella had thought she was enough to make him happy, but if Edward needed more, then he would find more—but she wouldn't be sticking around to watch.

Fast-forward: Bella was married to Jacob with a set of beautiful twins, and Edward—while not married—was with Rosalie and had a son with her. Neither was happy, neither was where they wanted to be. Both found themselves in a bar and, unbelievably, talking to each other. Edward hated Rosalie—she was manipulative and used their son to gain what she wanted from him. Bella couldn't remember why she married Jake. He was a good friend to her once, but he'd become possessive, jealous, and very condescending. He even undermined her in front of their kids. Edward knew that he was still in love with Bella, that she's the only girl he could ever want. Bella knew she hated Edward Cullen . . . but she only knew because she reminded herself of it constantly.

The humor and snark that WickedCurveBall74 injects into her story keeps the reader laughing and, sometimes simultaneously, rolling their eyes as Bella and Edward crash through their once again intertwining lives and learn to accept and move past the mistakes they've both made in previous years. They're adults now—maybe not grown up, but adults—and being together isn't simple like it could have been. Now, their actions affect the lives of many, and the author knows to portray this with a certain sense of delicacy.

Bella's sure she hates him, Edward's sure he doesn't deserve her, and they're both aware of how much they have to lose. So it becomes a matter of: is true love lost worth pursuing? Or do we sometimes need to let go so life can run smoothly?

What Are We Reading Now? - Into the Light

Into the Light
by idealistic4ever
Review written by smexy4smarties

“I want Ewar. Where Ewar go?" She was not saying it to anyone in particular, just saying it aloud, repeatedly.

She needed me. I would not, could not, let any harm come to this beautiful child. She was my world now.

Edward always said that Bella was his soul, his mate, his destiny, but was it really true? Edward Cullen's been seventeen for close to a hundred years, but what if, when he met Bella, she hadn't caught up yet? What if Edward Cullen found the love of his existence when she was only two years old?

Fate could indeed be so cruel. Bella Swan's parents were killed by a vicious bear but had enough time and sense to hide the young girl away to hopefully be found later. Edward couldn't understand what drew him to the girl, why he felt the compulsion to save her, but he did. He had to. She trusted him and trusted the Cullens, and two-year-old Bella Swan became Bella Cullen—a full-fledged member of the family.

She was adorable and quickly became the center of the Cullen universe, but Alice knew she was more. She wasn't destined to be Edward's daughter, niece or sister; Bella was Edward's mate. And Edward could deny it all he liked, but it was silly to bet against Alice. The little girl was growing up quickly—and her mind seemed to be progressing at an even faster rate—and Edward only had so much time before he would have to face the inevitable: he belonged to Isabella.

The story that idealistic4ever has woven is intricate and undoubtedly explores themes that many in the Twilight fandom haven't considered. Jacob Black imprinted on Renesmee the moment she was born, as the phenomenon of imprinting doesn't know the boundaries of age—would mating work the same way? It may be that there are more parallels between mating an imprinting than differences.

The portrayal of Bella as she ages and matures is also handled beautifully. Her speech and mannerisms are obviously that of a child, but regardless of what age she's at throughout the story, Bella's gentle nature and tender soul shine through. She is always Edward's Bella.

Edward's stubborn refusal to accept what will inevitably be as Bella races toward adulthood leave the reader wondering if he will willingly submit to the destined love that encompasses the two, or if he will succumb not by choice, but because the force of mating draws him in. Bella's all tied up in fate—will she submit to all that's prophecized or forge her own paths?

What Are We Reading Now? - The Ride

The Ride
By aylah50
Reviewed by ssarrahh

“She reached up and gently touched my lower lip, recognition sparking on her face for a split second, but then furrowed her eyebrows, confused. ‘I don't know why I don't remember how I know you,’ she whispered. ‘But I don't care.’”

When I was asked to do this review for TwiNetwork, my first choice was The Ride by aylah50. I had seen this fic rec’d everywhere and the first thing that drew me in from the get-go was the summary. What could be better than reading about our favorite characters donning ripped jeans and flannel shirts as they head banged to Pearl Jam and Nirvana?

The story begins with Edward and Bella’s instant connection at a concert in the 90’s. Without so much as disclosing each other’s names, they share a moment that the two still recall fondly after nearly thirteen years. Now, both thirty-something year olds living in NYC, they meet once again in a health club that Bella works for. They share the same instant connection, but both can’t shake the feeling that they have met one another before.

Aside from the incredible nineties references and music aspects of this story, I found Bella’s back story to be my favorite aspect. The reader knows something terrible happened to Bella the night of the concert, without knowing exactly what. It leaves a sense of mystery to Bella’s character that leaves the reader dying to figure out what horrific things happened to her. Edward, in comparison to Bella, lives an everyday normal life without too many deep rooted issues. He’s grounded but also lacks any of the real passion he once possessed. The two seem like a good fit for one another. Bella is the key of getting Edward out of his funk, and Edward is the glue that holds Bella together as she continues to struggle with her ghosts of her past.

I would recommend anyone this story who is looking for a little nostalgia, some sexy ExB times an overall great plot. Everyone should check out The Ride by aylah50!

What Are We Reading Now? - Truth is a Whisper

 
Truth Is A Whisper
by Antevorte
Reviewed by sbsp92

"Why had he shown his face? I was finally happy. I was finally forgetting the past to embrace the present."

Truth Is A Whisper begins with a tearful, nineteen year old, Bella packing up and leaving Charlie's house in Forks, Washington. Before leaving, Bella leaves three letters behind. Fast forward three years, Bella is now living in Manhattan, New York as an author and a single mother to her son, Nate. The new life Bella has made for herself and Nate starts to crumble when two people from her past try to reenter her present.

Antevorte has done a great job with keeping Truth Is A Whisper mysterious. She has done an amazing job making this story her own even though the prologue, title, and summary were originally started and given away by StareeLei.

I love stories that start off mysteriously and make me think of what could possibly happen later on. Truth Is A Whisper had me hooked from chapter one with its unique plot. Even though it only has five chapters, it constantly makes me wonder about what will happen next.

What made Bella leave Forks without telling Charlie? But most importantly can what happened between Bella and Edward be fixed?

What Are We Reading Now? - Yes, Mr. President

 

Yes, Mr. President

by CourtRose

Reviewed by MsRobPattzMasen

"Good morning, Mr. President," she said, stepping forward and offering her hand, "Welcome to the White House."

Bella Swan is a strong willed woman with a take-no-prisoners attitude.  She’s worked her way into the White House with pure talent and determination. It has landed her the job as Press Secretary for America’s new president: Edward Cullen.

Edward Cullen has come from a family of political density. It was just natural that he would one day run for the grandest job in our dear nation.  As a golden child I’m sure it came easy, right? Wrong. At least to the public it looks clean, but we all know that every politician has their dirty family laundry. 

The story seems like it would be simple enough; both in the White House, work closely, have wild monkey sex, fall in love. That’s what I thought before reading. Um, buzzer went off because there happens to be one little problem… Bella hates The President with a royal passion. And I bet the reason will shock you out of your chair the same as it did me.

CourtRose is an Australian author, writing about American politics.  Yeah, made my head tilt too, but I was blown away by her knowledge and dedication to American culture. Yes, Mr. President is told in the third person, which for the most part is hard for me to get into. I never feel an emotional connection to a story not told by the characters POV, but CourtRose does a beautiful job of telling the story in third and yet giving us the in depth view on Edward and Bella’s inner musings.

At just over the ten chapter milestone this story has already set a high standard. I am hooked and checking my inbox regularly for an update.   I know if you give it a chance you will be too.

Will Bella ever win the battle between her heart and hormones? Or will she give in to the inescapable Edward Cullen? At the moment I have no idea, but what I do know is that I will be there to find out.

What Are We Reading Now? - Roman Candle

 

Roman Candle

by nowforruin

 Review by idealistic4ever

“I was growing tired of the road I had chosen, but was still far too proud to admit it.”

"I miss you. The real you. The one I fell in love with...You're one of the smartest people I've ever met. And you're wasting it.”

"I'm tired of watching everyone else move on with their lives, Edward.”

Official Story Summary: Edward went to NYU dreaming of a future surrounded by academia. He ended up bartending in Brooklyn. Now he finds himself stuck with a bad job and a bad girlfriend.

One fateful breakup, a blizzard, and several bottles of liquid gold—anything can happen. No one ever said that finding the right path in life would be easy.

His life once held all the allure and possibility of living in a big city, but Edward Cullen soon finds out that life sometimes forcefully removes those rose colored glasses. Tending bar and living with long time girlfriend, Jessica, in New York City, he is growing more and more frustrated with his life.

They hated each other in high school, but when their paths crossed freshman year of college, they both had a change of heart. Four years later, Jessica has graduated and Edward is tending bar. She wants to go home; he refuses to swallow his pride.

Bella Swan is a hard ass, working the bar scene for most of her adult life. She has worked with Edward for the past four years. She doesn’t understand him; he thinks she despises him.

Roman Candle is something akin to a coming of age story for twenty-somethings. It speaks to that period in our lives when we want to be treated as an adult, we want to own our decisions, be our own keepers so-to-speak. Sometimes, though, owning those fateful decisions isn’t always that easy. Sometimes, clarity comes in the form of life-changing bitch slap.

A good story is based somewhat on personal experience, providing a more realistic take with which we, the readers, will be able to connect with. A really good story blurs the line between fiction and reality. Author, nowforruin, effortlessly melds the fictional plot line with reality as we discover what it feels like to make choices that sometimes don’t always turn out the way we thought they would.

It only takes one life altering experience to change everything, and for Edward, that change has been standing next to him, almost everyday, for the last four years. Looking through Edward’s eyes, readers will discover for the first time or rediscover all over again, a certain youthful innocence in how the world works. Sometimes the only choice is to make that crucial mistake in order to find our way back to the straight and narrow.