06/22/09
soraya786.livejournal.com
Hi there! I’m Soraya. I’m seventeen years old and am a proud Muslim British Bangladeshi. I live in East London and have loved reading and writing from a young age. I’m rather obsessed with Harry Potter (aren’t we all?), tea (not a surprise considering I’m a Brit) and good grammar. Recently, I've also got into the Supernatural fandom. After watching the first episode, I had already fallen head over heels in love with Sam Winchester, so it's no surprise that I am now a huge SPN fangirl as well as a Potterhead.
My writing has changed quite a bit over the years, and I think you'll probably notice that, the further down my author page you go, the more the quality seems to drop :P I started posting stories on here at the age of fourteen, and at nearly eighteen, I can see how much my writing has improved since those Dark Ages. So, for that reason, I would advise you stick to the more recent stuff, if you choose to read anything of mine.
My Stories
Just so you know, these are posted firstly according to what kind of pairing, if any, is in the story, and then in chronological order in accordance to my own canon, not necessarily the order in which they were posted.
Canon Pairings
Checkmate (James/Lily)
My first chaptered fic. It’s terribly written, but I still have a place in my heart for it because of how much fun it was to write. This story has now been deleted on MNFF, but if you really, really want to read it, you can still find it on FF.net and HPFF. (I advise you don't, though :P)
Second Childishness and Mere Oblivion (James/Lily)
Written for Round One (Major Characters) of Madam Pomfrey’s Character Clinic Triathlon, this one-shot is about James and Lily’s relationship getting rockier and rockier after they left Hogwarts, especially when Lily is faced with the trials of being a wife and motherhood. A little smutty.
My Love is Always Here (James/Lily)
This was a belated birthday present for the wonderful Gina/Gmariam, aka the queen of James/Lily. This is mostly about Lily dealing with becoming a mother for the first time and the problems (as well as the joys) that come with that.
There's an Answer (Remus/Tonks)
Written for Sophie/The owl for SPEW Summer Swap IV. Tonks is sent on an interesting baby Auror assignment to do with werewolves. Remus and a dangerous Muggle are thrown into the mix, with interesting results.
Left Behind (Remus/Tonks)
An expanded version of one of my LoveNotes, written for SPEW. It's a missing moment set between OOTP and HBP, where in my head canon Remus and Tonks have been together, in secret, for a few weeks already and Remus is then told to go on his werewolf mission. Slightly smutty.
One and Only (Remus/Tonks)
Written for the lovely Alex/Ithinkrabis2people in the Ravenclaw Christmas Drabble Exchange. This is a missing moment set just after Tonks’s outburst to Remus in the hospital wing at the end of HBP.
Out of My Life (Harry/Ginny)
My only AU (kind of). I tweaked a small part of canon in this -- basically, Harry actually said goodbye to Ginny properly when he broke up with her. Very angsty, and this is only up for sentimental reasons, as I wrote it during The Dark Ages (aka when I was fourteen).
A Different Kind of Magic (Harry/Ginny)
Written for the You’re Having My Baby challenge at SIYE. Ginny finds out she’s pregnant, but Harry receives the news before her and therefore has to tell his wife. This was my first ever story at MNFF. It was written when I was thirteen, and it definitely shows.
A Different Kind of Magic 2: Parenthood (Harry/Ginny)
A sequel, obviously, to A Different Kind of Magic. Ginny goes into labour, and both Harry and Ginny realise what it means to be parents. Again, this was written from Back in the Days.
Same-Sex Pairings
The Caustic Ticking of the Clock (Rowena/Helga)
Written for the Great Hall Cotillion, this story is my only Founders story so far, and it’s about Rowena and Helga’s secret relationship. I am proud of this one, which doesn’t usually happen :)
Catching Fire (James/Sirius)
This was written for SPEW 007. My prompt was “Embers”, and it’s set just after Remus’s second transformation with the Marauders. James is badly injured, and he and Sirius realise, inadvertently, that they might just have feelings for each other. I like the pairing but still think the story needs work. One day I will go back and edit.
Flicker and Fail (Katie/Leanne)
This was written forSecret SPEW, and my recipient was the absolutely fabulous Alex/welshdevondragon. It’s my take on Leanne and Katie’s relationship from way before they were even at Hogwarts as well as what eventually happens to Katie in HBP, when she was cursed.
Next Generation
Skinny Love (Louis/Lily)
Written for the 2013 Great Hall Cotillion. Set during Teddy and Victoire's wedding, Louis helps Lily come to terms with her bulimia. This one was pretty difficult to write.
Blood and Roses (Scorpius/Rose, Scorpius/Dominique, Dominique/OC)
Written for the Great Hall Mysterious Maychallenge, this was my first Next Generation fic about Scorpius, mostly, and the trials he faces after his daughter is murdered.
Broken Glass (Louis/Lily)
This is the story of when Loulily really began. After the deaths of his immediate family, Louis is finding it hard to cope, even six months later. Lily somehow helps. It’s a little smutty. I’m proud of this one, too :)
The Highway of Regret (Scorpius/Lily, Scorpius/Rose, Louis/Lily)
Also written for the Great Hall Cotillion. It’s my one and only Scily. This is all about secret relationships and mistakes people make. Lily’s angry at Louis, and Scorpius has just broken up with Rose; when Lily gets drunk in the pub, things... happen. :P
I Will Lay Down My Heart (Albus/Rose, Scorpius/Rose)
Written for Round Two (Minor Characters) of Madam Pomfrey’s Character Clinic Triathlon. Albus has been in love with Rose for years, but what happened with them when they were younger has put a dent in their relationship. It doesn’t help that Rose is actually in love with Scorpius, either. This is smutty too.
One More Night (Albus/Rose, Rose/Scorpius)
Companion piece to I Will Lay Down My Heart. This goes into more detail about Rose and Albus's changing relationship as well as the aftermath of the events in said companion story. Probably the smuttiest thing on my page. :D Written for the Great Hall Cotillion 2013.
Glass (Louis/Lily)
This was written for the Great Hall-iday challenge for the Operation: Mistletoe prompt, and this was where my love for Loulily began.
Poetry
Excruciatingly Painful
This is about how five men in Potterverse dealt with remorse in different ways.
Always
This poem is about how Remus feels about Sirius (not slashy, btw).
Regret
Written for the Magic in Music challenge over inPoetry, Anyone? This was set to the track “Obliviate” in DH1 and is about Hermione modifying her parents’ memories.
Farewell
Written for the Goodbyechallenge in Poetry, Anyone? This was about saying goodbye, and how difficult it could be.
After All This Time
Written for the Deathly Hallows challenge inPoetry, Anyone?. I ship unrequited Snape/Lily, and this is probably the only time Snape will be on my author page, lol.
Hush, Dominique
Written for the MC Kreacher challenge inPoetry, Anyone? This was written from the POV of Bill Weasley after his wife’s death.
Miscellaneous
Bruises
Written for the Great Bannermakers’ Hallchallenge. The banner I picked had Merope Gaunt on it, and it’s probably my darkest story; it’s definitely the only one to have a dubious consent warning. It’s about, as you might guess, the abuse Merope suffered from her father and brother.
In Care (Marlene/OC)
Marlene McKinnon, as a care kid, eventually falls in love with another care kid, Jamal Olawumi. But he's a Muggle, and keeping her world secret proves difficult. This is definitely a story I would like to revisit and tidy up.
Just Across the Bar (Sirius/Rosmerta)
Sirius is just about of age, but obviously Rosmerta has misgivings about having feelings for Sirius, who is still a student. Written for the 2013 Great Hall Cotillion and also smutty.
Butterbeer Bottles
Written for SPEW 007. My prompt was “Juggling”, and it’s just a silly piece of dialogue-only banter between Remus and Sirius. Sirius realises Remus likes Tonks, and he tries to persuade Remus to act on his feelings.
Hanging by a Thread (Katie/Oliver)
Written for the lovely Jess/ToBeOrNotToBeAGryffindor for Secret SPEW VII. Katie is grieving and drowning her sorrows in alcohol and Oliver is trying his best to save Muggles, while trying also to bury feelings for Katie that he thought he had long since forgotten about. There is also, surprise surprise, some smut in this.
And that’s it! Along with being a moderator, I’m also a member of SPEWand SBBC. I hope to see you around on the forums; feel free to contact me via PM or review if you have any questions or comments about my stories!
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Just a Boy by ToBeOrNotToBeAGryffindor
Rated: 3rd-5th Years •Summary:
Who we are is seldom who we were or who we will be, sometimes for the better and sometimes for the worse. Sometimes, in special circumstances, we choose one and hold onto it because the alternative simply is not an option.
And so it was for Adam Mulciber and Mary MacDonald.
Date: 08/26/12 Title: Chapter 1: Just a Girl
Oooooh, I liked that :) I think it was a good insight into what Mulciber actually did to Mary Macdonald -- though I was surprised when it tunred out they were best friends. That was certainly unexpected. But I can so see that happening! it's a bit like Lily and Severus, only Mary is richer and half-blood, presumably, rather than Muggleborn like Lily. And, ha, Mary actually seems to have returned Mulciber's feelings here.
The only criticism I have is that I think it was too short. It could have been expnaded in places, particularly the end -- I would have liked to see what happened after their kiss, if Mary went on the run in teh end, etc.
But other than that, I don';t know why you thought this was meh. I didn't think it was. It was a nice read :)
Author's Response:
Hellooooo!
I reread this myself, just to get a feel for it, and I suppose it's not so much meh as it is average. Nothing spectacular, but not bad, either. It was written in a hurry (um, three hours or so, lol) and slapdash edited, so that it's readable is nice.
I did worry that this was a bit too much like Lily/Snape, but the difference was that Mary had the ability within her to forgive Adam for what he did and what he became. Lily would never have forgiven Severus. Mary really did care about Adam, despite all of it, even if a small part of her hated him for making her feel the way he did.
The story was short for a reason: because it was how Mary wanted to remember Adam. What happened afterward were events she would have far preferred to forget. So the story doesn't include them, but instead stops just before he tears her heart to shreds and stamps on the pieces.
Anyway, thank youuuuuu for the review! I'm glad you liked the story and have slaked your curiosity as to its contents. <3
~Jess
D by ToBeOrNotToBeAGryffindor
Rated: 6th-7th Years •Summary:
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Over fifty brave souls perished during the fight that took down You-Know-Who’s regime. However, not all of the victims of the clash that ended just this morning set foot on the grounds of Hogwarts last night. Numerous family members and friends will be spending these next weeks not celebrating, but planning funerals while raking up the pieces of their lives and wondering where they are supposed to go from here.
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One boy was lost and alone -- looking for a lifeline, crying for help. But is anyone listening?
This story was nominated for two 2012 Quicksilver Quill Awards: Best Dark/Angst Story and Best General Story.
Date: 12/27/11 Title: Chapter 1: Dear Harry
Jessssss! (Or should I say Jessaclaw, or Your Awesomeness... lol.)
I have already squeed about this on LJ and AIM but I thought I would make it official :) Just wow. Seriously, this is brilliant. Stan is a wonderful song, a great character study, and of all people to choose to be Stan, what an interesting choice with Dennis Creevey. Colin's death was one that was quite upsetting in DH, and I find Dennis's reaction to that is so rarely explored in fanfic. I loved the format of the story, how the entire thing was written purely using letters and articles, and then that killer "Oh" at the end. Wooooow. So much emotion packed into what is actually quite a short story, enough to move me to tears.
I also loved the fact that Harry was the person Dennis was writing to -- I definitely think that he would have got a lot of letters after the war, so it's only inevitable that he wouldn't be able to reply to them all. But what's even sadder is that Dennis never signed off with his actual name. If he did, I'm sure Harry could have helped him -- hmm, actually I don't know.
Anyway, this is in no way a SPEW review, but this was a lovely story, and written for me, as well!
Author's Response:
Honestly, I'm glad you didn't hate this. When I finished it, I was a bit worried, as I'd ignored your prompts for the most part and delved into a subject I wasn't even sure you cared about. Lucky me, hehe.
Killing Dennis wasn't something I relished or even planned in my brainiverse; actually, in my 'universe', he becomes a writer who takes on the challenge of interviewing all of the survivors of the battle and the victims' families to complete not so much a historical representation, but a 'you had to be there to understand, but this is the next best thing' chronicle of events. As you can see, he's rather articulate.
Harry was the natural choice for Dennish to write to. Who else would one look to when one has lost everything and needs assurance that everything will turn out okay? Harry's been kicked around by life so much and managed to get through the war not only alive, but standing tall. And that Colin had painted this almost super-human image of Harry to his little brother, it's almost like a kid writing to God or Santa Claus, looking for answers or inspiration or even something to believe in.
I do believe that one letter from Harry could've changed everything. Just as one text or letter from Eminem could've kept Stan from going completely over the edge, but the price of casting one's lot in with celebrities is that you end up being one of many and have to wait your turn. :/
Anyway, thanks for the second review, and I'm so glad you didn't hate this. :D
~Jess
Beyond The Sea by Gmariam
Rated: 3rd-5th Years •Summary: Escaping the overwhelming revelry of another miserable New Year's Eve, Draco Malfoy finds himself drawn to an old seaside resort from his childhood. He meets an unexpected ally there, and the shore soon becomes his escape from life, a place where he can be free of his past. Little did he know that it would also hold the key to his future.
This is Gmariam of Ravenclaw writing for the Inaugural Great Hall Cotillion Challenge.
Date: 03/05/12 Title: Chapter 1: Somewhere, waiting for me
Gina, this was lovely :) It was perhaps not my favourite story of yours (though I suspect that's more because of my canon card than anything, lol) but I still liked it. I liked how you brought Draco and Luna together, on New Year's Eve, and how they found common ground through creatures and so on.
I loved their first kiss. I think it was so beautifully written, especially against such a gorgeous backdrop of the beach. That was definitely one of the strongest points in the story -- the description. It was so vivid and really made me feel like I was actually there, which was great :)
Nice one, Gina :D
Author's Response: Thanks so much, Soraya! I'm glad you liked it. I don't expect every story to go in the favorites, category, lol. Especially something like this. It was an idea I was kicking around for a while--I don't write rarepairs much, so this was a great chance for me to finally give it a try! The description comment is funny, because my original idea had nothing to do with the beach, but then it almost became it's own character. I even looked at pictures! Anyway - thanks so much for the lovely review! ~Gina :)
Something Strange by hestiajones
Rated: 6th-7th Years •Summary: Louis hadn't quite expected to fall in love with him, but he did.
A gift for my mistress, lucca4. Also, an entry for the Inaugural GH Cotillion Challenge.
Disclaimer: This is not J.K.Rowling. It'd be cool if she shipped Luna's son with Fleur's, though.
Date: 03/07/12 Title: Chapter 1: Chapter 1
Ooooooh, that was really good, Natalie! (Apologies for the continuous r-bombing.)
Despite the fact that Louis is with Lily (hehehehe), I did enjoy this quite a bit. I can't remember ever coming across this pairing before, so kudos to you for writing such a wonderful and believable rarepair.
I think, occasionally with your writing -- and I hope you don't mind me saying so -- the changes in POV/tense can be a tad confusing, but in this story, I really liked the shifts in narrative, from first person to second person. It worked really well, and I think it showed a great insight into Louis's mind.
I think one of the things I liked the most was Lysander's characterisation. So, yeah, he's not quite as weird as his mum, but he's still strange, and I liked how all of that tied in with the title so nicely as well. Oh, and I liked the fact that this "strangeness" is what caused them to get together in the first place.
Anyway, though I don't think I could ever ship this pairing, I still really enjoyed reading this. Well done! :D
Author's Response: I didn't think you'd read this ha ha. I am not really sure I ship them either. I just wrote it for the challenge because no one was using them. :D I am glad that the first person/second person switch worked out. It was necessary to do that for characterisation reasons.
Swans by Equinox Chick
Rated: 3rd-5th Years •Summary: I’m twenty-seven years old, so why can’t I just say no, or plead a headache and stay in my room?
Molly (jnr) was a Weasley with a difference. Not sparkling, not brave, not reckless. She was diligent and loyal, and usually overlooked.
For who notices ducklings when swans are gliding by?
I am not JK Rowling. You all know that. I am Equinox Chick and this is one of my entries for the Great Hall Inaugural Cotillion.
IT WONNNNN!!!!!!!!!!! (joint first with A Splendid Fate by hestiajones - you should all go and read that - it's very fab)Thank you judges for being amazing
Many thanks to Natalie (hestiajones) and Kara (Karaley Dargen) for their help with beta'ing this story.
The line about 'porridge' is a tip someone told me photographers use.
Due to the infuriating prissy glitch infecting the archives, I have downgraded this story's rating to 3rd-5th. However, this is actually a PROFESSORS story, so please do not click if sexual situations are likely to offend.
Date: 03/05/12 Title: Chapter 1: Chapter 1 - Ducks
You may or may not have noticed that I'm kind of spamming you today, hehe. But I wanted to get through my TBR list tonight, so yeah.
I loved this! (What's new, eh?) I think you've given Molly a really interesting personality, and Audrey and Lucy too. Ahhhh, NGL, Aaron is rather gorgeous :) But Hebe is such a biatch, and Barney is bloody horrible and mean and thoughtless. Good for Molly for getting rid of him, lol. He didn't deserve her.
I love the swans and everything. They're such graceful creatures, and I think it's so original for you to use that as the premise of your story. Ooooh, and the age difference between them is interesting -- especially with Molly being older, though it's not a significant age gap so it's all good. I'd love to see where this goes, so I shall see you on teh next chapter, Croll!
Author's Response: Thank youuuuuuuu. Oh, age gap age gap age gap - hahahahahahha.
Aaron is in High - very briefly - and I plan on featuring him in another story - post High, but pre-Swans - which will explain his rivalry with Hugo, so I'm pleased you liked him. ~Carole~
Date: 03/05/12 Title: Chapter 2: Chapter 2 - Pearls
Yayyyyy, they got their happy ending. And Audrey can go rot >.< Seriously, I don't know *who* in their right mind would expect their daughter to overlook something like that.
And I loved the thing about pearls. I never knew that! I really like how, while being entertained, I can also be educated :D
Anyway, I've got to dash, but this was definitely one of my favouritest stories in the challenge :)
Author's Response: I think Percy had the measure of Audrey when he said she hated being wrong and couldn't believe she'd made such a colossal error of judgement with Barnabas. I hope she'll calm down and become more decent if I ever write a follow up, but for some reason I've always seen her as a shrew.
Thank you so much for all the reviews, Soraya. It is much appreciated. ~Carole~
Nothing More by Gmariam
Rated: 3rd-5th Years •Summary: James Potter shares a moment with one of his best friends the night before his wedding.
This is Gmariam of Ravenclaw writing for the Great Hall Cotillion Challenge.
Date: 01/23/12 Title: Chapter 1: One-shot
Helloooo, Gina :)
You know I've had a soft spot for this pairing -- ever since I read that amazing on on LJ. So I've really been looking forward to reading this ever since you claimed the pairing and were discussing it on the LS, and you definitely didn't disappoint! (But then, you never do, and I haven't read a single thing by you that wasn't fab so that's just a given :D)
I think the best thing about this story was the amount of emotion packed into what is actually a relatively short one-shot. And you did that through using some well-chosen words in both dialogue and description (the description at the beginning was particularly beautiful). The humour in it was quirky and well-placed -- my favourite one is definitely this line:
"It's the name," Remus replies blandly. "My inner wolf thinks it's good for glossy fur."
It's nice to see some humour injected into the piece -- it really brought out the overall bittersweet tone of the story. I also liked that you stayed away from including the... erm... details of their relationship, if you will. (Not that I don't like smut, lol.) I think it's actually more impressive that you managed to show how James and Remus's relationship changed without really going into a lot of detail about it.
Excellent story, Gina, and good luck in the challenge!
~Soraya~
Author's Response: A very belated thank you for this review, Soraya! I'm so glad you enjoyed this story. I may have to revisit this pairing someday. That story on LJ was just so good I don't think I could ever do it justice, but it's fun to explore. Thanks again!! ~Gina :)
Ordinary Magic by WeasleyMom
Rated: 3rd-5th Years •
Summary: Ernie Macmillan has had a difficult year, suffering three losses in two months’ time. Life is dreary, and each day seems far too much like the one before and the one to follow. But on any regular day, extraordinary things can happen, can change the course of a journey… especially when an obligatory dinner party, a meddling best friend, and a familiar face from the past come together at just the right time. This is WeasleyMom of Hufflepuff, writing for the Great Hall Cotillion Challenge. Thanks to Natalie/hestiajones for beta reading this in a quick turnaround.
Date: 05/14/12 Title: Chapter 1: Chapter 1
Hi Lori :)
I’ve been meaning to read this for a while, so I’m glad to have finally done so, because I really am enjoying this story so far. I think you’ve got an intriguing take on Ernie in terms of his characterisation and backstory, and this is only the first chapter, so I’d love to see where this goes from here.
Ernie’s characterisation was one of the biggest strengths here. I really liked how you introduced him, with his attachment to his owl. I remember reading Deathly Hallows and feeling just as sad as Harry was when Hedwig died, so it was interesting to see something similar go on with Ernie. And I love how Ernie thinks, Women, when he thinks of Belle -- I think that shows a lot about how considerate he is as a character, to the extent that he doesn’t just think of his pet as a pet, but also a “womanâ€, which I think is rather sweet. As well as this, Ernie feeling as lonely and broken as he is was beautifully and realistically written, especially as he even admitted it himself.
And I also love Hannah here. Even in the letter, you established her voice so well -- as someone who is firm and who isn’t afraid to say her mind, but also an honest person, especially when she says Besides, I miss you. Again, I thought it was really sweet, and I think it said a lot about their friendship, and how concerned Hannah was for him. And I think it’s interesting that you mention how their positions were reversed in their sixth year, and that they were best friends, because it gives them a connection I didn't really think of before. I also am interested to know exactly why Ernie’s father passed away; I hope this is mentioned in the next chapter.
I think you brought out both of their characters when they started arguing. While I understand why Hannah would try to set Ernie up, it wasn’t that fair for Ernie not to know that he was being set up, so I think his annoyance was justified. I also liked the inclusion of Neville here, and I’m wondering exactly when this was set (Hermione and Ron are married at this point, so I was thinking it’s probably a few years after the Battle). Either way, though, I am glad Ernie and Hannah made up, at least :) Along with all of this, I’m also eager to know who “the girl he’d lost three weeks later†was. I really do hope you update soon, because I very much would like to know what happens next.
Lastly, the scene at the end of the story was lovely and awkward. I loved how the girl (and who is she? I hope it’s Lisa Turpin...) and Ernie, although both embarrassed, were able to somehow have a conversation, even if it was a small one. I thought Ernie’s blushing and social awkwardness was just adorable, and I really do sympathise with him for being set up like that, though it seems he’s attracted to the girl, so I’d like to see who she is. There’s a certain wonderful mysteriousness about the story, which I think is just excellent, Lori, and there are so many things I want to find out in the next chapter.
So, all in all, this was an excellent first chapter. I can’t wait for the next.
Oh, and happy belated birthday :)
~Soraya~
Author's Response: Oh my, Soraya, I really did think I'd responded to this! So glad for Carole's comments today about responding to reviews--it made me check my stats and here you've been all this time with no response to such a wonderful review. Thanks!
Last Man Standing by Gmariam
Rated: 3rd-5th Years •Summary: Charlie Weasley is sitting at his brother's wedding when he meets a beautiful reporter covering the nuptials. Daphne Greengrass is more than she appears, however, and he finds himself quickly entranced. Is she interested in him as well, or is he just another story?
This is Gmariam of Ravenclaw writing for the Inaugural Great Hall Cotillion Challenge.
Date: 03/07/12 Title: Chapter 1: One Shot
Ginaaaaaaaaaa, this was lovely :) Charlie is a gorgeous character, and I think you did a great job characterising him in this.
I think it's interesting that JKR said how Charlie didn't marry (or something like that) and I think you built on that really well. And I was a bit miffed at Daphne for bailing on him like that. That was a bit... meh. (To her, not you :))
Anyway, I'm not really very coherent atm, so I'll go away now, lol. Well done!
Author's Response: A very belated thank you, Soraya! I'm glad you enjoyed it. Charlie was was great character to write so I'm glad he turned out all right. I have more plans for him. And yes, Daphne was a bit of a you-know-what there at the end. I toyed with that but had to go with it since I have other plans, heh heh. Thanks again for the lovely review! ~Gina :)
Predictions of Love by Equinox Chick
Rated: 3rd-5th Years •Summary: For the past twelve years, Sybill Trelawney has lived a sheltered life cloistered in her rooms at Hogwarts. But with the arrival of Gilderoy Lockhart, her thoughts turn to love.
But the competition for his heart is fierce. Will Sybill find love with the dashing professor?
Disclaimer: I am not JK Rowling. Neither am I a writer of Mills and Boon.
Thank you to Kara (karaley Dargen) for being a fabulous beta. More thanks to Alex (welshdevondragon) for linking me to a certain romantic story.
This is Equinox Chick from Hufflepuff writing for the Great Hall Cotillion.
Date: 03/03/12 Title: Chapter 1: Predictions of Love
LOLOL. The Amir bits were just too funnnnnny, and Sybill is sooooo delusional, hehehehehe.
Honestly, this made me laugh so much. I really like how you characterised Sybill and Gilderoy, too -- Gilderoy in particular is so cocky and sure of himself and I think it was just really amusing that just because he had a bump on his finger (I get it too >.
Author's Response: I used to get that bump too, but I don't use a pen and paper much these days - hahahahah. Thank you for the review. I had a lot of fun writing this - especially the Amir bits - heheheheheheh. ~Carole~
Come Away With Me by lucca4
Rated: 6th-7th Years •Summary:
On a mountaintop
Come away with me
And I'll never stop loving you
Evan Rosier and Dorcas Meadowes swore that they would not let the war come between them.
But things change as they realise that love cannot always come first.
Written for the GH Cotillion Challenge.
A million thanks to my beta Alex/welshdevondragon who is lovely and brilliant.
Nominated for a 2012 Quicksilver Quill Award - Best Marauder Era Story.
Date: 02/12/12 Title: Chapter 1: Come Away With Me
Hello, Ariana :)
What a wonderful story! Alex mentioned it on the LS while she was betaing it, and I just had to read it to see for myself how great it is. I haven’t read anything by you in a while, so it was lovely reading this. The GH challenge has meant some truly excellent stories have been written, and yours is definitely one of them for several reasons.
Firstly, I really liked the inclusion of song lyrics. They complemented the story really well but without being intrusive or choppy. I think lyrics are best when there are only a few used, and it definitely worked here. What I liked the best was that the lyrics in the summary, at least, appeared quite optimistic, and it contrasted with the summary itself which was quite dark and foreboding. It kind of gave me hope, in a way, even though I know that in canon, Dorcas Meadowes is killed by Voldemort.
I also loved how it was written from Evan’s and Dorcas’s points of view. I think you got into both their heads really well, and your stellar characterisation of them helped make the pairing, which is definitely a rarepair in my opinion, believable and real. From the beginning, I think the story had a really sensual feel to it, which definitely lent itself into making the pairing plausible. I especially liked this sentence ( The frost lingered on her swollen lips and on her tongue) because it’s a beautiful image and, as I said, quite physical as well, if you know what I mean, but without being overly explicit about it either.
One thing I noticed was that you seemed to switch POVs a little abruptly, and without a line break or anything to indicate that. For example, the section about Dorcas’s first time with Evan started in Evan’s POV, and then it kind of went to Dorcas’s for a few paragraphs and then went back to Evan’s. I do think the changes of viewpoint could have been a little more clear-cut. I also think it could be worth mentioning their age at the beginning, because I was slightly surprised when I read that they were still in school, albeit in their last few days of seventh year. I just think a little clarification was needed there.
But they’re very minor points, and they in no way detracted the wonderful style in which this was written, in the three sections, and the even more wonderful plot of the story. Even though I knew Dorcas’s backstory, that she was going to die somehow, I really liked your take on it, and I thought the ending in particular was heartbreaking, the way Evan lured Dorcas into a trap in such a way. And it made sense; the way you characterised Evan, the ending was perfectly written, the emotions felt by Evan wonderfully executed, and it tied in with canon too.
Brilliant story, Ariana, and I am adding it to my favourites :)
~Soraya~
Author's Response: Um. Wow. This review kind of made my day :). Thank you so much for reading and reviewing and leaving such a stellar SPEWly review at that. I'm so happy that you liked it and that you thought the song lyrics weren't intrusive - it was one of the main things I was worried about when I had Alex beta it for me. I agree with your points about the POV switch especially the paragraph you mentioned…my (rather pathetic) reasoning was that it was more omniscient than her POV, but it is kind of clunky. Again, thank you for the review and the points you made, so much! xx Ariana
Forbidden Colours by Equinox Chick
Rated: 6th-7th Years •Summary: Not all of us Slytherins are proficient in the Dark Arts or take as much delight as Vincent Crabbe does in detention. When I watch Demelza writhe in pain in front of me, I feel sick to my core.
I need to make amends, but I don't know how.And she's not going to listen to me, is she?
Forbidden Colours is a love story set in that fated seventh year.
Disclaimer: I am not JK Rowling, or David Sylvian. I merely nick their words and attempt to add my own.
Thank you to Natalie for beta'ing the first chapter and Kara for the others.
I am Equinox Chick from Hufflepuff writing for the Great Hall Cotillion Challenge.
Date: 02/13/12 Title: Chapter 3: Chapter 3 - Doubting the Ground Beneath Me
Helloooo, Carole. (Or is it Croll, or Con? :P) Just popping in before I get back to the electromagnetic spectrum and red shift >.>
This is just fab. I think you got into Demelza's head really well in this chapter, and seeing her perspective on what has happened so far was important especially after the conversation she had with Andrew. I knew there was more to it than that, and I just hope Tracey can see it that way.
If there was one nitpick of mine, it would be that the time shift at the beginning threw me slightly. I think it's because, despite going back in time, you still had it in present tense, and that's why I was slightly confused to begin with. But that's really minor, and as soon as I realised that Demelza was recounting what happened before, it made sense and I got lost in the story again. So it's all good :)
I can't wait for the final chapter :D
Author's Response: Hiiiiii, yes, the time shift was an issue with both me and Kara. The thing was, that I really wanted to start the chapter with that line, and I also needed to show Demelza's story. I thought about adding a date, but that seemed a bit out of place in the story as a whole (I might consider it again, though). In the end, I decided a small amount of confusion was okay as long as you got it by the end of that section.
Thank youuuu for the review. Now, get back to electromagnetic spectrum and red shift. :p ~Croll~
Date: 02/07/12 Title: Chapter 1: Chapter 1 -A Lifetime Away From You
Carole! I must say, the GH challenge has meant some excellent stories have been written -- including yours, naturally :) I think you mentioned on the LS that you were slightly concerned about the style and so on, and I honestly do not know why you were so worried because it flowed so well and so smoothly.
I also LOVED Forbidden Colours, and I think you captured the mood of the song really well :) I loved the chemistry between Demelza and Tracey, and the subtle hints of Tracey's attraction to Demelza. And Pansy was characterised wonderfully too, as annoying as she was in canon.
Lovely start, Carole, and I'd like to know where this goes :D
Author's Response: Thank youuuu. I agree about the GHchallenge. Perhaps the fact that it's so open has led to some great stories both canon and non-canon. It's certainly a lot of fun exploring characters we know very little about.
Ah, I was googling Fobidden colours last night and couldn;t resist using it, and the lyrics as chapter titles. *sigh* Thanks again ~Carole~
Susan by hestiajones
Rated: 3rd-5th Years •Summary: The fireworks are imprinted on her features with such clarity that she’s all but glimpses of sunlight.
This is hestiajones' bazillionth entry for the GH Cotillion Challenge. To be honest, she's more bewildered than you, and what's more, she's not J.K.Rowling.
Date: 03/05/12 Title: Chapter 1: Chapter 1
Ooooh, Natalie, this was lovely :) I haven't heard the song, but I Googled the lyrics and I can definitely see how you've integrated them here, and where the inspiration comes from.
I think you captured Alicia's voice really well, and it helped in making a rarepair believable, imo. And I loved how you repeated "Susan" with a different description of her each time -- that worked really well.
So yeah, nice. :)
Author's Response: YAY! Thank you! :) <3333
Flawed by Ginny Weasley Potter
Rated: 6th-7th Years •Summary: Nobody is perfect; every human being has his or her own set of imperfections, be it physical or otherwise. They say that the beautiful full moon has spots too. But isn’t that saying designed to pacify people about their imperfections?
They say love is all about acceptance and compatibility; that when two people fall in love, one person’s shortcomings are covered for by the other person, and vice-versa. But love is not just that. It is much more. It is bigger and better-- because sometimes, even when we cannot cover up for the limitations of the ones we love, we accept the flaws as endearing and are ready to live with them for the rest of our lives.
This is Ginny Weasley Potter of Hufflepuff, writing for the Great Hall Cotillion. The Pairing I’ve chosen is Padma Patil/ Original Character 2.
Date: 03/07/12 Title: Chapter 1: Flawed
Pooja, this was a really interesting story! It's a real shame it doesn't have any reviews, because I think it certainly deserves them.
I think this was a really good premise -- that Padma is pressured by her family to marry, and that she eventually falls in love with one of her suitors. So, it's not exactly an arranged marriage, since they spent a lot of time together before they married, but it's also not entirely a love marriage. That was quite unique, imo, and I think the subject of arranged marriage was dealt with really well. So many people, although more with OF than fanfic (though it still happens in both), tend to mishandle arranged marriage, and make it out to be completely wrong and for there to be no chance of success that way. I liked how you put your own original twist to that, because it worked really well.
I thought the way you built up on their relationship and then when Padma wanted to introduce Parvati to Vineet was really shocking. I was, initially, a little confused, especially because I'm sure Vineet would have remembered seeing Parvati. But then it all made sense, especially when Mrs Patil explained it to Vineet. And looking back on it, I can't believe I missed how Parvati was only spoken to by Padma! That was really clever of you, Pooja. You definitely had me fooled!
I don't always like happy endings, but I will say that I was pleased that Padma got the right ending here. Having suffered too much, I don't think it would have been right for her to have a sad ending (that would so break my heart). Soooo, all in all, Pooja, great story, and here's to hoping you get more reviews for this
Author's Response: Sorry about the epic lateness, Soraya! This review had me squealing in low! Thank you so very much.
Actually arranged marriages are not uncommon in India and this plot bunny had been hopping about the corners of my mind for a while before I got the perfect opportunity to write it. ;-)
What Comes Before Death by goldensnidget92
Rated: 6th-7th Years • Summary: Helena Ravenclaw told Harry how she died. What she didn't tell him was the whole story that came before her tragic death.
Love, betrayal and heartbreak coloured the last months of her life; but the Bloody Baron wasn't quite as evil as has been supposed.
I am unbelievably proud to announce that this story won The Untold Story Award at the Great Hall Cotillion Challenge AND was nominated for the Quicksilver Quill Awards 2012: Best General Story!
Date: 03/04/12 Title: Chapter 1: What Comes Before Death
Hello, Helena :) I really think it's so unjust when well-written, original stories are ignored on the Most Recent list. So here's a semi-coherent review (partly because it's 12.30am and I'm kind of sleepy...) and sorry if there are any typos.
The story of Helena and the Bloody Baron has always intrigued me, so this was a really interesting read, and an excellent attempt to fill in a DH missing moment. I loved your characterisation of both Charles and Helena, and how you created that chemistry right from the very beginning.
I especially liked how you kind of redeemed the Bloody Baron for me. As in, he's painted in a rather bad light in the books, and you made me feel really sorry for him and kind of understand his actions. That in itself is an achievement -- well done there.
Something I think I'll have to pull you up on is that, occasionally, the paragraphs looked rather long, and it did wreak my head a little looking at quite large chunks of writing on the page, so I suggest you cut some of them down. It's more for aesthetic reasons than anything, tbh.
When I wrote my Founders story (in case you're interested, it's a Helga/Rowena called The Caustic Ticking of the Clock /shameless self-promotion), I had a lot of timeline errors that both my beta and my mod had to point out to me. You didn't have any that I could see; well done on that too.
I loved the ending. I think it summed up Charles's feelings perfectly, and it was decidedly rather bloody. (On that note, perhaps bump up the rating to 6th-7th years? It was pretty intense, but it is your choice, I know.) Soooo, excellent story, Helena (what a coincidence, lol) and good luck in the challenge!
~Soraya~
Author's Response: Thanks Soraya! I did always find Helena Ravenclaw very interesting (ok, partly because of the name!) and this challenge was the perfect opportunity for me to explore her story. I also really like looking at things from different perspectives, and the Bloody Baron almost wrote himself for me, which was pretty fascinating!
Thanks for the heads up about the paragraphs - duly noted! And also for the rating. I think I got so caught up in the writing, and because I always knew it would end that way, it didn't seem as bad for me, but it's good to know your reaction!
But thanks for the great review, it was really appreciated!! (Think I'll go and read your Helga/Rowena now..)
Heat of Life by Equinox Chick
Rated: Professors •Summary: Katie Bell was surprised to receive an official note from Harry Potter. Usually he just popped his head around the door when he wanted a chat, but then he tells her he needs her help tracking down a dangerous Dark wizard who is targeting Muggle girls.
She can't possibly refuse, especially not when it's Harry asking her.
Disclaimer: It is pointless me pretending any more. Look, I'm not JK Rowling, and never have been.
This is Equinox Chick of the Mighty House of Badgers, writing for the Inaugural Great Hall Cotillion thingy.
Date: 03/05/12 Title: Chapter 1: One
Hey, I've finally got on to this :) NGL, this is one pairing that I've never particularly cared for, until Jess's Up In The Air changed my mind. So I was definitely interested in seeing what story you'd give Katie and Harry here.
And, ooooh, I like that Katie is a curse-breaker type person. Suits her, especially after everything that happened with the necklace :) I also think that whoever's behind this drugging is horrible, and it's a good thing Dean's sis was saved, obviously.
You've got an interesting premise to the story, Carole, and I'd like to see where this goes :)
Author's Response: Thank you. i hope you like the rest of it. Katie has been a Curse-breaker in another story of mine so that seems to be my canon for her now, largely down to the necklace.
Mmm, Jess got me into thinking about this pairing, too - hah hah hah ~Carole~
Date: 03/05/12 Title: Chapter 2: TWO
*sniggers* Roger and Alicia's, er, antics are rather funny, hehehe.
I like how natural they are together. Harry was rather sweet, kissing her like that, and you've created lovely chemistry between them which was definitely necessary in order to make this pairing believable.
Ooooh, and I liked how you wrote Mundungus. Though I am wondering who his granddaugher is...
Anyway, on to the next chapter!
Author's Response: Haven't thought of his granddaughter yet, I just didn;t want him coming over as pervy when he talked to katie - hee hee. Glad the chemistry works. It was hard splitting him from Ginny and also giving Harry some spice because he's so dull *sigh* Thank youuuuu ~Carole~
Date: 03/05/12 Title: Chapter 3: Three
Ooooh, that was a nice end to the story :)
“If you shout ‘Score’, then it’s over.â€
lolol. That was just far too funny :P
I liked that you tied together the loose ends, despite the word count limit, and I definitely was cheering Katie on when she gave Dave a good ol' knee in the goolies, hehe.
I think you've made this pairing really original, and the only thing I was wondering about, and this isn't crit or anything and I certainly don't think it should be in the story, is that I'd like to know how Harry and Ginny got back together. Because you haven't given it an EWE warning, so how did Harry and Katie break up?
Great story, Carole :)
Author's Response: UHHHHM, not sure yet. I might add an EWE - hahahahahahahahahhahhahaha - especially as Ginny's now engaged to Dean - ooops! Here's something evil to share with you, I named Dave after an ex of mine - hahahahaha- he wasn't that horrible mind you, but I liked getting my revenge. Thanks again ~Carole~
Desire And a Half by hestiajones
Rated: 6th-7th Years • Summary:
The stage is set just as I like it.
This is hestiajones' final entry for the Inaugural GH Cotillion Challenge, but you never know. She might pop up again. However, she assures you that she is not J.K.Rowling.
My heartfelt thanks to my fellow elf, the opaleye/Julia/Wise One of the Pear and Unicorn Wand, whose crit helped me turn this fic into something more worthwhile :)
Date: 03/12/12 Title: Chapter 1: Chapter 1
Oooooh, Natalie, this was fab :) I've been meaning to read your Flabini for a while (though I think Zleur sounds better :P) and I definitely think it's one of the challenge's strongest entries. You got into Mrs Zabini's head so, so well, and the use of first person really helped in establishing her voice.
Well done, Natalieeeeee. I never thought I would be convinced of this pairing, so yay to that.
Author's Response: A REVIEW FOR FLABINI! Of course, that made my day. :) Glad you liked it!