06/01/09
Hello! I'm Julia and when I'm not cavorting with elves in Middle Earth, I'm a moderator for this archive, among other things.
Poetry, Anyone? I am the resident Poet Laureate over on the Beta Boards as leader of this fun little group. We have monthly challenges all with a Harry Potter twist. You can also find solid and comprehensive critique for any poems and help for all your archive-based concerns.
Susan Bones Book Club. I am the leader of this fun little group. Each month the SBBC chooses two to three fics from the archives to discuss. We also have monthly drabble activities and an incredibly lively chat thread. We accept new members at all times so if you're interested go and take a look. It's open to all members of the beta boards. If you have any questions or concerns then don't hesitate to PM me.
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Altered Perspectives by khaelmohrdan
Rated: 6th-7th Years •Summary: Harry makes an accidental discovery that throws his world – and his hormones – into a tailspin.
Date: 02/17/10 Title: Chapter 1: He'd Been Fantasizing
This story has so much promise and I would love to read more but you seem to have abandoned it! I really urge you to submit more to this story. There are still people out here who want to read it!!!
A Good Shag by DragonDi
Rated: 3rd-5th Years •Summary: An unexpected mission has Sirius teasing Remus about his standards--which leads Remus to do something even more unexpected. (Contains sexual innuendo--but with a title like that, what else would you expect?)
Date: 08/30/09 Title: Chapter 1: Chapter 1
*gasp* I have officially fallen in love with Remus. You get him so right. I just finished reviewing Edges and then I come across this by you again... That was funny and romantic but I didn't cringe at the cheesiness you get most of the time with fanfiction.
He felt his mouth go dry. And then, for once he spoke without thinking: “I wouldn’t shag you, Nymphadora.”
He felt her shock. And her disappointment seemed to make her oblivious to the fact that he had used her first name. But before she could respond, before she could feel that awfulness for one more moment, he bent and whispered in her ear, “I’d make love to you.”
OMFG, I almost squealed like a little teenager just then. I love it, this is going into my fabourites too and again, good luck with the QSQ nomination!
Author's Response: Again--didn't realise this had been nominated! You've made my day!
I thought for sure that THAT line (the 'I'd make love to you' line) would come across as cheesy. But, oh, I'd kill to have someone say something like that to me! (My hubby's a good guy; but romantic, he is not.)
I'm glad I've made you fall in love with Remus. He's an incredible character, really (even if he does have his flaws) and I adore him probably more than what is psychologically sound, considering he's a fictional character. :)
Thanks again for the great review--and for letting me know about the nominations! Pinch me, quick, so I know I'm awake!
Edges by DragonDi
Rated: Professors •
Summary: Peter Pettigrew is dead by his own silver hand. Remus Lupin shares the news with Sirius Black and the Potters and ponders how he feels about it. (Warning: Adult wizards will swear--especially if one has been in prison...)
Originally published: Fiction Alley, Dec. 2007.
Date: 08/30/09 Title: Chapter 1: Chapter 1
This is one of the most moving, believable Marauder fics I have read on MNFF. The concept is amazing in itself. Your characterisation of Remus was perfect in all times of his life. The journey you take him through is credible but unique at the same time and incredibly moving. I admit, I cried at the end, so touching. I love the idea of Remus toasting his lost friends. The story of the Marauders' is certainly a tragic one and you have caught the bittersweet tragedy with a refined style which I love. I absolutely abhor melodrama and you avoided that so I applaud you. I always think it is so sad that none of the Marauders, in fact most of that generation including Snape died well before their time. Those boys at Hogwarts who had gallavanted around, playing pranks and enjoying everything life has to offer never would have thought that none of them would survive to see fifty. Whenever I read the books I always think about that, it's just so tragic. But anyway, well done. This is definitely going into my favourites and good luck for your QSQ nomination. This fic is truly deserving.
Author's Response: As I've gotten older, I've found myself thinking, "Lupin would be teaching at Hogwarts at my age" or "Sirius would be dead at the age I am now." It bothers me to no end that not even one of them lived 'til the end of their natural lives. If there was one thing I'd take JKRowling to task for, it would be that.
Anyhow... I fought the idea of Remus toasting Peter more than what he did. I thought people might come after me with pitchforks and torches. But knowing he'd forgiven Sirius for The Prank with Snape and knowing the weariness that comes from too much war and not enough peace, I thought Remus might very well be likely to make that distinction between what Peter was once and what Wormtail had turned out to be.
But, gosh, I'm so glad you thought it wasn't melodramatic and that I wrote Remus' character well. Sometimes, good characterisations can carry a story even if there are plot holes a mile wide, so I try to 'nail' those characters as well as I can.
Thanks for the wonderful review--and thanks for letting me know my story had been nominated! I didn't know!
Pansy, Going and Coming by Spottedcat
Rated: 1st-2nd Years •Summary: After the Great Battle is over, Pansy Parkinson comes face-to-face with a bitter loss. But even when things seem to be at their worst, Pansy finds a kind spirit.
Date: 08/04/09 Title: Chapter 1: Pansy, Going and Coming
YAY! I have been looking for something like this for ages! As soon as I started reading I was hoping it would be Dudley and it was!!!!! Awesome stuff. This was a great one-shot. I agree with your characterisation of Dudley. I think he would be a reformed character as we see at the beginning of DH. I'm not sure how he would react if he found out Pansy was a witch though? Perhaps frustration, annoyance but acceptance at the same time??? Who knows... But well done anyway, such as great concept :)
It Wasn't Over, It Still Isn't Over by bellaoc
Rated: 3rd-5th Years •Summary: A month after the Final Battle, Ginny disappears without a trace. Fast forward two and a half years and we find Ginny living a new life in London as a Muggle journalist with one big secret: She has a daughter. Urged on by a concerned family member, she returns home to face the man and the life she left behind.
Date: 11/12/09 Title: Chapter 1: Lost and Found
Cliffhanger! Please update!!!!
Ring A Ring O' Roses by gallivant
Rated: Professors •Summary: If working with Draco Malfoy was the last thing Hermione ever wanted... Falling in love was the least expected.
A dangerous quest to thwart a magical weapon of mass destruction has devastating personal consequences, when a race to save the world, becomes a race to save themselves...
Date: 04/29/10 Title: Chapter 1: But Thinking Makes It So
Oh this is an intriguing start. I'm looking forward to reading the next couple of chapters! I love how you have set this up. It seems incredibly well thought out and has an excellent air of mystery. I am a little surprised at Hermione's opinion of Molly. It seems a little harsh but perhaps that is just me.
I like the way you have written Draco so far. He's still snarky and sharp but of course after everything he went through, he is also a changed man. I'm looking forward to seeing how his relationship with Hermione develops.
Keep it up!
The Journey to Understanding by coolh5000
Rated: 3rd-5th Years •Summary: Ron's world falls apart when he discovers the death of his wife, Hermione. Desperate to understand why it happened, he becomes determined to find the people responsible. However his hunt leads him to discover the darkness and suffering of those who the second war sought to suppress.
This is a round 7 Gauntlet entry by coolh5000 of Slytherin
Date: 09/12/09 Title: Chapter 1: Chapter 1
Well, this is very intriguing! I've really enjoyed this first chapter and I'm looking forward to reading the second after writing this review. First of all, so far your plot is great. You capture the readers interest from the first few paragraphs. Beginning with the death of Hermione is a good idea as it pulls the reader right in. Of course, everyone wants to know why you've killed off such a major character. It's quite sad thinking of a dead Hermione but who am I to complain; I've killed off Ron in one of my own fics...
There are some issues I have, though. They're mainly to do with Ron's reaction after he finds out Hermione has died. I think the way you had him rush off to see her as soon as he found out was good. I always think Ron is a bit of a rash character so that fits in well. However, the way he acts when he sees her body was a bit off. When you see a loved one lying there, dead, everything seems to cease to exist. I think maybe you should have let Ron come to terms with the fact that he was seeing the lifeless body of his wife for a while longer rather than having him notice the cuts and asking questions about them. I also think he would have stayed a little while longer with her. I realise you might have wanted to continue on with the plot but give him some time to begin to grieve.
Another thing that bothered me was the way Harry coped with everything. Hermione was one of his best friends and yet he seems so calm. The story is of course based from Ron's P.O.V but some indication of Harry's grief is required. Harry is someone who I feel suffers from chronic guilt. While he may try to stop Ron from feeling guilty, I believe Harry would feel the guilt himself. Think about his reaction to Sirius, Cedric, Dobby, Tonks and Remus' deaths. If Hermione died, working on a case in which he was also involved, then his reaction to her death would be incredibly similar to those.
Sorry, I hope this doesn't sound terrible or anything because you have drawn me into this fic from the off. I really enjoyed this chapter, it was just these characterisation issues which bothered me a bit. I'll go read the other two chapters now, though!!! It's a great start :)
Julia
You dance divinely, Mr Weasley by Equinox Chick
Rated: 3rd-5th Years •Summary: It has been two and a half years since Fred died and George Weasley still feels the pain of loss. So when Ginny and Hermione turn up at the shop to ask him to fill in for a sick Ron at the Quidditch Winter Ball his initial response is a definite no! But Hermione’s plight, for some reason, moves him and he reluctantly agrees to partner his soon to be sister-in-law to the ball. With new robes and some dazzling dance steps, he little realises that this could be the night his life changes for the better.
Date: 08/05/09 Title: Chapter 1: You dance divinely, Mr Weasley.
I loved this! I originally started reading because I thought it was one of those rare Hermione/George fics (I'm writing one myself so I got quite excited) but it was a pleasant surprise when Angelina came along :) I liked your mixture of sadness and humour and your characterisation was good. I can imagine Ron doing an idiotic thing like eat a pound of Doxy eggs...
So, well done. I thoroughly enjoyed it.
And on a completely different topic, I love Audiofictions! Keep up the good work!
Author's Response: Thanks for the review. Hmmm, George/Hermione - that does sound interesting. I think the reason I stuck with Angelina, is because so many people are against them as a canon couple, and I think they work. I'm glad you liked Ron being an idiot - I don't think that boy ever really grows up (heh heh). Thank you also listening to Audiofics. ~Carole~
Visits From Fred by mudbloodproud
Rated: 3rd-5th Years •Summary: Fred Weasley’s death left a hole in everyone’s hearts. Fred is given the chance to visit his family to help them with their grief. Follow his visits to each of his family members.
Date: 12/02/09 Title: Chapter 6: Tears, Swamps and Memories
When missing me gets to be too much, go visit the swamp.
I loved this line. It made me laugh so much. Just thought I'd pop by and say I"m still really enjoying this fic. Each time a new episode pops up in my iTunes library I give a little squee! I love how you are doing people other than actual Weasleys. Hermione and Harry suffered from Fred's death too and you really caught their grief right.
-Julia :)
Date: 10/11/09 Title: Chapter 4: Dragons, Dreams and Laughter
I just listened to this chapter on Audiofictions and thought I would pop over here and tell you how much I enjoyed it. I love this fic but I'm restraining myself from reading it all now so I can have the pleasure of listening to it on the bus!
This chapter especially resonated with me. I think you have caught Charlies feeling of needing to stay with his mother so well. My father died when I was eleven. My older sister moved out the following year to attend Medical School in another city so it has been just me and mum for seven years. I chose to stay at home this year while I went to uni. It was an emotional decision just as much as it was a financial one. I couldn't bear the thought of leaving mum at home, alone. I have made the choice to move out next year. It has become too much to keep on travelling in and out of town (at least one hour each way on the bus) every day to go to uni.
When I heard this chapter I could really relate to what Charlie felt. The guilt of leaving a parent alone is such a heavy burden. You have caught the feeling so well and I applaud you. Sorry for the little life story but I just felt so close to the emotions in this chapter. Thank you.
Drifting by Potterworm
Rated: 1st-2nd Years •Summary: After being tortured into insanity, Alice and Frank Longbottom live in a closed ward for permanent spell damage at Saint Mungo’s. The Healers say they cannot recognize their family members. The Healers call them insane. Alice Longbottom drifts through time, experiencing small blips of sanity when her son, Neville, comes to visit. This is her story.
Date: 08/24/09 Title: Chapter 1: Drifting (In Between Insanity)
That was beautiful. I just read this after seeing the nomination for the QSQ and I loved it! Goodluck for the nomination :)
Author's Response: I'm glad you liked it. Thanks for the kind words.
The Broom Cupboard by Cirelondiel
Rated: 3rd-5th Years • Summary:
Your relationship with Fred existed almost entirely within a broom cupboard.
~*~
You and Fred: a Hufflepuff and a Gryffindor, two complementary souls. In a world where nothing is certain, you find comfort in a dusty third-floor storage room.
Date: 08/05/09 Title: Chapter 1: The Broom Cupboard
This was amazing. I was just searching the category for something interesting to read, came across this and just fell in love with it. Your writing style is nicely refined, you do not waste too many words which I sometimes find a problem with fanfics. Very well done. Five stars. This is officially one of my favourites, in fact I'm going to go add it right now!
Author's Response: Thank you, Julia! And thanks very much for the QSQ nomination, that was a huge and lovely surprise. I'm really glad you enjoyed this.
Lavender, blue - A Gryffindor true by Equinox Chick
Rated: Professors • Summary: When Lavender Brown returns to Hogwarts for her seventh year, she knows things will be hard. Professor Dumbledore’s death has scared everybody, and with her Muggle-born mother in hiding, she makes a promise to her father to stay safe.
But to stay safe she must ignore her instincts and turn her back on her friends.
This is a Lavender Brown/Blaise Zabini story, but also concerns that last year at Hogwarts when the Trio were a'hunting Horcruxes.
Thank you to Laura (bookofsecrets) and Terri (mudbloodproud) for beta'ing the first chapter, Alyssa (Harry4lif) for the second and Emma (Amortentia x) for taking over the reins. And Natalie for the last chapter.
Disclaimer: I am not JK Rowling. I doubt that surprises anyone.
This story won the 2010 QSQ for Best Chaptered Non-Canon Romance. Thank you to everyone who nominated, appreciated and judged.
ATTENTION: Because of prissy glitch on the archive, stories with a rating about 3rd-5th cannot be read. I have lowered the rating to enable access, but the content remains the same. This is a PROFESSORS rated fic. Read at your own discretion - the sexual situations warning is there for a reason.
Date: 10/29/09 Title: Chapter 7: Chapter 7 - What if?
Merlin's Beard! What is Lavender going to do? And what's going to happen to Blaise? When will he find out?
Great chapter, Carole. I literally squealed when I saw you had updated (not to mention putting off my exam study...) But I'm thinking the battle of Hogwarts must coming nearer and nearer because Lavender wasn't showing when the trio turned up... *squealsagainwithexcitement* Can't wait for the next installment. Hopefully all my exams will be over by then so I won't have to feel guilty lol
Author's Response: Hmm, well, let's see. It's very near the end of April ... Battle of Hogwarts is May 1st/2nd ... could be coming up very soon. Thanks you so much for the review, Julia and I'm glad this fic is keeping your interest. It obsesses me ... I don't know what I'll do when it's over. ~Carole~
Date: 05/31/10 Title: Chapter 9: Chapter 9 - Before I Sleep
Oh Carole. Oh oh oh. That was a great ending. Just fantastic. Sigh. I can't believe this story is over. It's sad yet kind of satisfying knowing their ending was a good one despite everything. I absolutely adored Blaise's conversation with Karis. You provided some great insight into their relationship and it was an interesting interlude within the fic. Intriguing. I know you've written another fic based on Karis so I'll definitely check that out sometime.
And yay! We got to see some more chocolate action! I feel so smutty typing that but oh well lol. If only Pourable Paradise was real. I also love how the ending was just so incredibly... hot. After a very sad and bitter chapter it was nice to see the couple return to their... old ways. Hehe. But in all honesty, it wouldn't be fair to end this without hotness so I'm very very happy.
As always it was brilliantly written and with a good sense of closure. I'm sure you could have gone on to write more about these two within this fic but I think you chose a nice point to finish it. Your details are always fantastic like Carissa and the setting. I can just imagine Blaise strolling around the villa in a Cavalli suit XD
Thank you for such an amazing story, Carole. I've looked forward to each update and while I'm sad that this is the end, I've come away with a new appreciation for Lavender (and I huge crush on Blaise).
Julia XD
Author's Response: *huge grin on face* - Thank you, Julia. I'm so pleased you liked the fic and that you loved the Blaise/Karis scene - I liked that too. My other fic about her isn't very good ... so I wouldn't bother - ha ha. I will write some more about this pair (and possibly Carissa). I have another oneshot in my head, and they do have a tendency to pop up in other fics. I'm determined to make them canon - ha ha. Thanks again. ~Carole~
Date: 10/10/09 Title: Chapter 6: Chapter 6 - Restrictions
Carole! Another brilliant chapter! I was so excited when I saw it was called Restrictions ;) Sigh, romance in the library...
“Why the hell would I be interested in that brainless bint?” Ah, I just loved this line. It was perfect for the mood of the conversation and made me laugh.
I also loved the way you had Zabini be the one to tell Neville that he was in danger. That was a great bit of plot crafting!
But Crabbe! Oh no! What is going to happen?!?! I won't be able to sleep now! And what does Snape want with Zabini? Questions, questions, I have so many!!! Can't wait for the next update :) Great job.
Author's Response: Someone on the board wears a Vincent Crabbe banner, but because I've written this story, everytime I see it I shudder. He's now just a permanantly evil boy in my head. *shivers* Hee hee. Thank you very much for reviewing and I am pleased that you're enjoying the story. What does Snape want with Zabini ... hmmm ... who knows? (Well, I do, but that would be telling). ~Carole~
Date: 02/14/10 Title: Chapter 8: Chapter 8 - Miles To Go
Merlin, Carole. That was heart wrenching stuff. It was refreshing to see a different side to the Battle of Hogwarts. I've only read a couple of fics which show the final battle and often they are just retellings of the DH version. Whereas with this, it was so familiar yet not. I was right in the action instead of within Harry's head. And how you wrote Lupin's death...sigh...that is one of the things I will never forgive JKR for.
Everything was seamless and everything made sense. You have written this in such a way that it fits with the canon version yet stands alone. I really enjoyed that aspect. I think the way you have ended this chapter is also very effective. With the short little paragraphs going over what happened while Blaise and Lavender were not there, it had a numb feeling, which, I suppose, is exactly how Blaise and Lavender felt while hearing the news. It was very emotional with little melodrama. Perfect.
You made me cry.
~Julia
Author's Response: Thank. You. So. Much. Honestly, I had such problems with this chapter - because we already know everything that happened in the battle and I had to make it different. Oh, and I'm with you on Remus and Tonks dying - I cannot forgive her for that (which could be why A Little More Time is my favourite fic). I cried a bit writing this chapter too, poor baby. Thanks again ~Carole~
Date: 09/26/09 Title: Chapter 4: Chapter 4 - Stopping by Woods
Oh my goodness! I loved this chapter! It was so interesting seeing things from Blaise's p.o.v. You've made him a truly intriguing character. And the little cliff-hanger at the end with Neville is great but unfortunately means I must cut this review short so I can go on and read more!
Author's Response: Thank you. I am pleased you're enjoying this. Lavender and Blaise are fast becoming an obsession.
In the Stillness of Night by cassie123
Rated: 6th-7th Years • Summary:
The night is still, crisp, unforgiving. I take my time to walk the stone path, staring down at the rough detail on every circular rock. This is my preparation for my own self-exposure. I’m composing myself before the time comes for me to unravel.
To tell the truth isn't always easy, not even for the ones you love.
A Scorpius Malfoy/Lily Potter one shot.
Date: 11/15/09 Title: Chapter 1: In the Stillness of Night
Amazing. I hardly ever read Next Gen but this was...I don't know how to describe it. It's just amazing.
Love Story by Radcliffefan07
Rated: 6th-7th Years •Summary: This is the story of true love. Over the course of the summer the unexpected happens and many things change in the lives of our three favorite characters. This is my take on the the way things should have been. Follow the trio through the summer after the battle, their seventh year at Hogwarts and beyond. H/Hr. Enjoy!
Date: 01/25/10 Title: Chapter 2: Chapter One: The Flight
Yay! I was so excited to see that you had finally updated! It's good to see another Harry/Hermione fic out there! Can't wait to see what's next :)
Author's Response: Bet you'll be excited again soon. Chapte two is in the queue, so I think I'll let it answer your question about what happens next. :) Happy reading!
Date: 08/23/09 Title: Chapter 1: Prologue
Ahhhh, I've been waiting for a new H/Hr to come up. I actually read this when it was first submitted but I'm reviewing now cos...well I dunno why it took me so long. Anyway, I love this and can't wait to read more. Is the first chapter submitted yet? And I love that your setting it in Paris, my favourite city in the entire world! Gasp, you should take them to the Catacombs...spoooooooky! Can't wait :)
Author's Response: Thank you. Chapter two is in the queue. So hopefully you'll see an update soon!