Hello everyone who decided to grace this boring page!
I am a native Floridian, recent college graduate, happily married (even though the hubby doesn't understand the obession...)! I have been reading for years, but only recently taken a dive into writing. I'm a proud Hufflepuff and have recently taken to drabbling as well, so some of those might turn into stories as well.
Stories (click for banner on all):
Independent Stories:
A Life From the Ashes:
Third Task challenge fic, centered on Ron.
Banner by whomovedmyquill.
A True Weasley
Why Percy Weasley was sorted into Gryffindor. For the Hufflepuff Back to Hogwarts Challenge.
Wicked Witches
A one-shot about Luna as a child.
For the Halloween Challenge - Halloween Explained.
***
Moments Series:
This series highlights important, pivotal moments in a characters' life.
It did not start as a series, but has taken flight in my mind, and you can't really tell those things "no", can you?
Each summary is purposefully vague, for telling you the moment ahead of time is anticlimatic, in my opinion.
Series banner by psijupiter.
Moments:
A Harry/Ginny story, a missing moment from the HBP.
Banner by lilykinslove.
Twilit Confessions:
A Ron/Hermione story, Post-Hogwarts.
Banner by Bine/luinrina.
All reviews are appreciated and cherished.
Intus Temporis Infractus by Celesteennui
Rated: 6th-7th Years [Reviews - 6]
Summary: Grand sweeping AU. What if there was no Harry Potter? No “Chosen One” to stand between the Dark Lord and his quest to rule the world? This is a question that one rogue Death Eater set into motion and, in another frame of time that was torn from our own, it has been answered none too prettily. It is in this world that three heroes must unite to salvage the remains of humanity’s goodness left behind in the whirlwind of violence and oppression that have scarred it so deeply.
Callie Conleth is a beautiful, brilliant, and charming young witch whose seemingly pureblood heritage grants her an enormous blanket of protection while she works as a spy for the Order of the Capricorn with her partner, Jerry. This blanket, however, did not save the person she loved most, her elder—werewolf— brother, Gary, from “disappearing” when the Dark Regime conquered North America. Nor has it afforded her any peaceful sleep when she knows how all of her Muggle and Muggle-born neighbors have mysteriously vanished as well. Always thinking one-step ahead, Callie acts with fire running in her veins.
Mel Cúchulainn, childhood friend of both Callie and Jerry, is a Dragon Rider who, thanks to the treaty the Rider Tribes have signed, has kept on the outside of the great wizarding war. A blind eye is not something that settles well with the fierce, skilled, and tenacious Mel—or many other Riders either—and she, along with her Dragon, Chance, finds herself in a unique position to help change the Tribes’ minds. Cool headed and deadly, Mel fights with all the might of her soul.
Jerry Moore also finds nothing for himself in the pureblood credo that the Dark Regime holds. Brave, intuitive, and jovial to most people, Jerry’s smile hides a sensitive young man who cannot accept a world that offers little to no protection for not only helpless humans but also elves, centaurs, and other so-called “half-breeds” persecuted beneath the new rule. With a chivalrous intent to defend those in need, Jerry always looks with the inner eye of his heart.
The winds of change are blowing and whether for bad or good only time will tell. What is certain, however, is that these three friends will be very close to the eye of the storm as it rages. They are unique magicians bound together by the past, love, and fate, but is even the steely resolve of the young a match for an army of Death Eaters? With hope such fragile thing in this war-ravaged world is mankind lost without a “Chosen One” to lead the way? Or can fire, strength, and sight be found before it’s too late? The path is dark and painful but does that mean our heroes cannot travel it? Find out the answers to these questions and more in: Intus Temporis Infractus.
With time travel movies or TV shows, you always hear about how you can't change the past. I like how in this universe, it seems that no matter what seems to be different in this new universe, some things are always the same. It is interesting which ones you chose to say the same - that the child of the prophecy is linked to James, rather than Lily, and that Peter made the same choices even when the knowledge of the Prophecy was made public.
Beginning felt like a newspaper article, or an excerpt from a textbook, and I thought it was a really great way to show the exposition. And to have your OC's just in a situation doing something rather than throw us into something helped to immerse us into the story better. Slowly acknowledging details about the situation as it has unfolded made it easier to understand what was going on, as that is the one drawback to this kind of story - there are so many new things to remember!
I really like your OC's. They are gritty and mulit-dimensional already, and it's only chapter 1. :) I went back to read your summary again to see how they relate to each other, as Mel was sort of doing her own thing in this chapter.
This is an extremely interesting story: I don't know if I've ever seen a more developed AU. I can't believe I missed the update for this, but hopefully I won't miss the next one.
~Amanda
Author's Response: Wow, this is one hell of a review if I do say so myself (and I do) :)
I can't revel why certain things stayed the same in this world and others remained the same but I CAN say that just like in the original universe, prophecies have a 50/50 chance of being correct. Because of previously changed events, this was the half where it was not. Partially because of the change in parents of the young Mr. Potter and partially from OTHER circumstances.
I'm glad that the beginning read like it did, that was SO my intention and it fills me with glee to know that it played out as I intended. I hate when authors just hand you out all the backstory in a lecture, it feels so boring and chap AND-as you so brilliantly pointed out-makes things so hard to keep in mind!
I'm glad you like Cal, Jerry, and Mel, I love them to pieces as well and not just because they're my characters, they're partially based on characters played by 2 of my best friends in a Harry Potter RPG we played. They're not much like their original bases, but they certainly still bring the warm memories of a great summer on.
In short, thank you VERY much for your kind words of encouragement and I hope that I don't disappoint you with future chapters.
~Chris
Once Upon A Time by DaniDM
Rated: Professors [Reviews - 59]
Summary: Pre-HP Hogwarts-mid-1930's. Elizabett Castlewood, a Hufflepuff raised in a circle of Slytherins, has created a new course for Hogwarts-Muggle Studies. Within the first months at school, she captures the attention of a certain Transfiguration professor.
Oh my, I must admit that I thought it would make things easier for her to turn to Albus if Thomas were to do that, but I didn't think he would. For shame! "I have needs." Blah, men!
I must say, I just stopped reviewing this evening and read right on until the end. :) I am completely drawn into Elizabett's tale and I cannot wait for the next update! I would very much like to see what Professor Dumbledore thinks of this new development in her life...
Author's Response: Oh…that’s coming. The next chapter is in queue…but it’s not one you’re expecting. *Snort* Thought I’d throw something else at you guys. :-)
Dani
Oooohhh, what a lovely and dark transitional chapter. I'm calling it that because I felt like we really didn't find out any new additional information except for the introduction of Gellert and it was quite short.
It still contained the same charm and poetic-ness of the language.
Elizabett's character keeps becoming more appealing to me and more complex as well. Her relationship with Albus moves to greater heights with this information, as I'm sure as the story progresses and his relationship with Gellert changes this information is already known or will become known. Either way, it will add greater depth.
Lovely chapter.
Author's Response: Thank you for the wonderful review. Yes, this was meant as a transitional chapter. Just enough to introduce Gellert, and a hint of possibilities to come.
This story has become much longer than anticipated, and much is covered.
I hope you keep reading.
Dani
Ohhhh, what a delicious chapter. I never thought I'd be describing a nice little snog fest with Albus Dumbledore as delicious, but there you have it! It was!
I could really picture the scene out by the lake - viewing the night sky as I rarely get to view it anymore, too close to civilization. Though they've both felt something before, this whole scene felt like a build-up…I got a little more tense until it got to the end and I was like, "Do it Albus!"
It always starts out innocent: "Oh sit down here!" Then he lays down, then a confession, then they turn to talk more comfortably…then BAM! It's snog fest time, and it was good. I personally didn't think it was overdone. It seemed right for Albus to make the move and then step back and say, "Hey. Do YOU understand what just happened?" And as soon as he is sure, he just took control of the situation after letting her make her own conclusions. Does that make sense?
It did a little fluffy! at the end…with the wishing on a star line. It seemed to me like it could have ended on the long paragraph, "both happy and content."
Anyway, I hope that made sense…yea for some romance! Though I doubt this is the end of their tale, or that they have a super!happy ending, at least not right away. I know the ending is alternative universe, and I am not trying too hard to analyze what part of it is alternate; is it just Albus' sexuality?
Author's Response: I'm so glad you liked the chapter. Short and sweet, and yes, okay, I got a bit corny at the end. We'll deal with Albus' sexuality in the future, and his relationship with Elizabett will take time to develop. So far, this story is a lot longer than anticipated - 47 chapters!! I hope yo're up to it. ;-D Dani
Oh, I've been missing updates again! *Drat work!*
Anyways, things just took a turn for the super interesting in the last chapter - Elizabett is an extremely daring individual - kudos to you for creating this amazing character that continues to grow more complex and more believable. I am digging her, lol.
I really enjoyed reading the scenes with Albus at her parent's house. It was so...Albus, lol. He was there when she got home, he was chatting it up with her parents, saying the right things to win them over, but the truthful things...they are just too cute. I am amazed everytime I finish a chapter at how cute I find Albus Dumbledore to be in an adult relationship, and that is a testament to your writing.
Another testament is the way you've fit this story into canon with Grendewald. I know the outcome, but..this journey is really exciting, and I can't wait to see how it develops.
~Amanda
Author's Response: I'm so glad you're enjoying it. I didn't think this story would take off as Dumbledore is not one of my favorite characters. But, with the focus on the OC, it has really come along. So far, I'm working on Chapter 50!! Eekk! A whole lot bigger than I anticipated! I hope you keep reading ane reviewing.
Dani
EEEP!!
I have been reading...but not reviewing as faithfully *hangs head in shame*.
This story is so interesting. The way you interweave what we are familiar with what we can only speculate about is done really smoothly and doesn't feel forced. And although we know what happens, eventually...we still don't know how they get there, and this journey that you are telling is very intriguing and enthralling.
Thanks for the updates and the fascinating story!
~Amanda
Author's Response: So glad you're enjoying it. It's a lot longer than anticipated. Up to 53 chapters now, but I can see the end in sight...hopefully.
Thanks for the review. Keep in touch.
Dani
Very interesting premise and very good story! The name "Elizabett" is perfect for this time period, and I am interested to see how things progress, with both her relationships and with her class. I will continue reading. You write this time period very well!
I though Slughorn's line in Chapter 3 was great: it was something to the effect of "We are to impart knowledge, not let them find it for themselves". It made even me indignant! :) I'm not sure if I quite agree with his characterization, but it's been a while since I've read the books or canon descriptions concerning his attitudes. He just seems a little too...rude? Boorish? In HBP he just seemed somewhat clueless as to what the people around him were thinking, and he was definitely selfish, but I never got the impression that he believed the things he believes in this story, or that he was quite so rude. I do like his relationship with Dumbledore; they seem to have confidences and that they've been old friends--letting the other to see what no one else can see, being honest. Especially the part at the end when he goes to Albus' room.
Albus' feelings for Elizabett were unexpected, but I've never read a story where he has any sort of love interest like this and I'm excited to see where it goes! We don't know much yet about Thomas, but as she's known him her entire life, I'm inclined to like him. :)
Author's Response: Thank you very much for such a kind review. I’m trying hard to intertwine the events of the time period with the story, and I think you may be in for a surprise or two or more…
Slughorn was never one of my favorite characters. I always saw him as selfish and self-serving, and it fit with JKR’s info that he uses people for purposes of personal prestige. Very little is known about his personal life (or preferences), so I played with that aspect in his and Albus’ relationship. Expect more.
You’ll see more of Thomas and he is a constant figure throughout the story.
I’ll try to post as each chapter is validated, but it is only as fast as the validation.
I hope to hear from you again.
Dani
I've been seeing this updated for a few weeks and I just haven't had time to properly read when I could review it! I have time today so I made it a priority because this has been a really great story and I wanted to catch up!
This is a wonderfully written story, full of intrigue, mystery, romance, and beautiful language. Elizabett is a complex character who is within the bounds of her social class and times, but still has spunk and makes me giggle, like when she was talking with Slughorn about her Potions class.
Though we know the end result of Dumbledore and Grendewald, there are so many details we don't know. The mysterious errands of Dumbledore, his quiet observations (and sarcastic comments), the subtle power and watchfulness…it is almost a reflection of Dumbledore in HBP. That's a compliment. :) He seems to be a very difficult character to write, and his interactions with Elizabett are tasteful and not overdone.
And what can I say about Thomas? *sigh* He's dreamy. And still a developed character, though I hope to see more of him in the future involved in something other than his relationship with Elizabett, as he seems like an intelligent and capable wizard.
Author's Response: I’m glad you finally found the time. I hear from so few people. It’s a writer’s privilege to hear what the reader thinks of their work.
I’m so glad that you’re enjoying the story. This one is actually a prequel to a trilogy that I wrote a while back, although it stands alone quite nicely. More developments to come.
Dani
I must first say that a sixth year McGonagall being distracted by the Gryffindor seeker was priceless, and once again it was nice to have it brushed by with out being overdone. Something you are talented at.
That being said, this chapter certainly upped everything. The suspense, certainly, on all fronts -…I did not thing originally that I would enjoy the romantic aspect of Dumbledore with a younger woman who had a much more (on the surface) admirable man already returning her affections. The way this is starting to play out and develop is slowly changing my mind. I definitely am enjoying this story very very much!
I liked the beginning from Dumbledore's POV as well (although we don't know much more than we did before, lol). And Elizabett's interplay with him, and her dialogue with Slughorn, made my admiration for her increase.
Author's Response: I like the way Elizabett plays with Albus. She keeps the relationship friendly and casual. As for Slughorn…he never was one of my favourites. He always seemed to be self-important, someone who enjoys trophies.I had to make Elizabett hold her own with him.
Dani
Oh, I am liking Slughorn less and less. And Elizabett more and more. The development of Albus and Elizabett's relationship continues to be deliciously slow and complex.
I would have thought there would have been some mention in the past two chapters somewhere of Thomas and their correspondence.
Author's Response: I guess my attention was elsewhere. Albus and Elizabett are “just friends”. Just wait to see what happens.
Dani
Hmmmm....the romantic intrigue continues! I just can't help it, I still like Thomas, my heart goes out to him, and I certainly don't envy Elizabett's position. It seems as if Thomas and Albus were presented in separate situations to juxatopose Elizabett's reactions.
This story is a wonderfully romantic historic mysterious story! I'm getting spoiled, reading so many chapters at once. And I haven't forgotten about Slughorn! :)
Author's Response: I’m glad you’re still with it. It was supposed to be short…but isn’t. I got carried away.
Dani
Diavol by Equinox Chick
Rated: 1st-2nd Years [Reviews - 7]
Summary: Twelve years after three of his friends have died, and another has been incarcerated, Remus Lupin is drifting. Unable to pursue a long-term career due to his lycanthropy, he has finally found work in a dragon reserve in Romania. He is accepted here and begins to find a kind of peace. But one day something happens that threatens this calm existence, and the other workers are calling Remus Lupin -- diavol.
I am Equinox Chick of Hufflepuff writing for the Third Task of the Triwizard Tournament.
Not only did I enjoy the take on Remus' life before Hogwarts, but I like his introduction to a (blonde!) Tonks! I giggled when I realized the cute blonde in the purple bathing suit was her. I also think your take on how Tonks might have been accepted as an Auror with her clumsiness was quite brilliant while using the prompt as well. I liked that Remus would be the one to encourage her...a little bit of canon foreshadowing. :)
I really enjoyed reading this. It flows very well and it is just very well written.
Author's Response: Thank you so much, Amanda. I do love Remus and Tonks to an almost obsessive degree, so it is hard for me to write a tale about Remus without her - LOL. Carole xxx
Great first chapter! I can't wait to read the rest of it! I particularly like that Remus has a tattoo...the images of the Mauraders was a nice little light moment amongst Remus' current indirection in his life. This is a great take on what Remus might have been doing all those years. Very creative title, as well. You are a great writer, and your work is very enjoyable to read!
Author's Response: Thank you very much. It's always a pleasure to receive lovely reviews like this and I'm glad you enjoyed my take on Remus during those lost years. Carole xxx
A Silent Change by Afifa
Rated: 3rd-5th Years [Reviews - 5]
Summary: James Sirius Potter is working amongst dragons to keep the other dragons at bay. Namely, the innumerable reporters who want his interviews and photographs. All because of his surname.
He succeeds too, to quite a great degree. But things start going wrong when an old acquaintance turns up and James has a reporter with whom he has to share his flat. And his life. And also, maybe... love?
This character is very well developed...I like her! Is she a character from another one of your stories or is this her first feature? If so, I would like to see more of her, she is interesting and fiesty! And their relationship, given James' history with the press, seems interesting, as does the hinted at history at Hogwarts...great second chapter, I'm onto the next!
"That left me dumbfounded. She was right. We shouldn’t let something as minor as work come between our friendship. Mum and Dad had always taught me to value my friends, and had often advised me to not let anything interfere with a true friendship."
I love this - it is very simple, yet something I can see Harry teaching his children.
Author's Response: Yay! I'm glad you liked Adelaide's characterization, and no, she doesn't make an appearance in any of the other fics. Yet. ;p
Yeah, I could definitely see Harry going on about how important friends are as he's always all 'I couldn't have been able to do anything if my friends hadn't been with me'. He'd surely pass it to his kids.
I'm so happy that you love it. :D
Oh, yes, this cemented my liking for Adelaide and her superb fast thinking and acting skills. :) I'm glad it will continue and I thought the use of the prompts was great!
Author's Response: Tehe. Adelaide's fun to write. :D
Thanks for the compliments and the review! :)
The Kindling of the Fire by padfootsgirl1981
Rated: 3rd-5th Years [Reviews - 4]
Summary:
Dead? Ha! Fools!
Evan Rosier is alive and kicking. After faking his own death and escaping from Voldemort's clutches, he starts a new life as a dragon keeper. He soon discovers, however, that feelings, like flames, are not easily extinguished.
Evan Rosier/Marlene McKinnon.
This is padfootsgirl1981 of Hufflepuff writing for the Third Task of the Triwizard Tournament
First: the title.
"Dead? Ha! Fools!"
Awesome. This story was very well written! I loved how you interwove the flashbacks into the story (and the prompts into the flashbacks), making two characters we know very little about become personable very quickly.
You write dialogue so well, and I thought the pacing (throwing us the situation and their entire relationship in this one shot!) was good, too. It didn't feel rushed, and it flowed nicely...and the ending took on a sweetness that is probably not associated with Death Eaters very often. :)
I would love to see their relationship fleshed out. Great work!
Good Night, Albus by Gmariam
Rated: 3rd-5th Years [Reviews - 9]
Summary: A series of drabbles written for the Ravenclaw Almost-Gauntlet, this story includes nine scenes from Albus Severus Potter's time at Hogwarts, beginning with his surprise sorting and following him through Quidditch, O.W.L.s, and a very important relationship. It concludes with a touching reflection on so many memories from over the years.
This is a beautifully written story! The choice of moments in Al's life help to develop his character wonderfully, giving him his separate identify from his large and famous family. The way that you filled in the missing moments each year to help him grow, but still left missing moments makes it mysterious...as the reader, I want to know more! What was in the box from his first year? How long did he stay on the Quidditch team? And the big question at the end...I definitely want to go check out "Lost" now!
I think my favorite prompt is...well, I couldn't pick one out. :) Ophelia's dialogue in Prompt 1 is fantastic, I liked her right away. I enjoy seeing the dymanics between all the relatives...you write the relationships very well.
In addition, I thought you treated what could be a sensitive subject for some very naturally. I personally don't know what it's like to have to come to terms with understanding those feelings at a young age, but you made his transition believeable to me. The defensiveness and refusal to admit it to himself, keeping it secret, fear of rejection from his loved ones, fear of being outcast from society...all of those things he felt as such a young person. And you captured it all.
Great story, I hope you did well in the Almost Gauntlet!
Author's Response: Thank you so much for this great review! I'm so glad you liked the way this piece was set up and presented. Thank you for the wonderful compliments *blushes* I especially appreciate your last comments on Albus's coming out - I have never written a gay character before and am glad I was able to handle it with sensitivity and realism. Thank you for reading this and leaving such a nice review, I really appreciate it! ~Gina :) PS. I haven't heard about the Almost-Gauntlet yet, but I must admit I miss writing about these characters I created for it!
Eventual Embrace by Afifa
Rated: 3rd-5th Years [Reviews - 4]
Summary: If a girl you love likes you, it doesn't necessarily mean that she wants to go a step ahead with the relationship. Or that she wants you to be something more than just friends.
But, if the girl you love hated you and then started liking you and became your friend, it is possible that she may also learn to love you back. All you have to do is wait for the right time.
This is a sequel to my other James/Lily one shot: Beneath the Shell, but it can be read as a stand alone, too.
A/N: Warning is there just in case, there is seriously, nothing major going on.
Before I started reading, I suddenly remembered that I totally fangirled this banner, and I can't believe I haven't read this story yet!!
*Cough* Sorry. Anyway, onto the review. Oh my gosh. The first paragraph is one of the cutest things I've ever read.
I think what I liked most about this moment was that I could feel it happening. It's hard not to spend a lot of time with someone and not get to know them. And by getting to know them I mean getting to know who they are as a person. I think during their 7th year, Lily would get to know who James really was through their time along with their Head duties, and would have to admit, whether she wanted to or not, that he wasn't as horrible as she wanted to believe. Does that make sense? 'Cause I think that's what you show here in this evening.
I also love the development in James' feelings for Lily. It connects to your first story and shows a real growth and maturity that I've not seen in a MWPP story before.
I liked and disliked that the story didn't end with their relationship coming to a resolution. It gave us a little bit of closure from your first story, but it seemed like a glimpse into a journey they were having…and of course, it always feels good to have the guy get the girl of his dreams. :) But that moment when she puts her hand over his mouth was intimate and I could picture the scene…it was lovely and I almost felt sorry for James. I also wonder if Lily knows what affect she is still having on him when she does things like that…
This was a delightful little read, and I am shamelessly saying I would love to see what would feel like a final part of a trilogy, and let James get his girl! :)
~Amanda
To Meet Again by mzap
Rated: 1st-2nd Years [Reviews - 3]
Summary: Sent out on a self-imposed errand, the last person Remus Lupin expected to run into was Nymphadora Tonks, whom he had not seen in many years. When they meet, they have a chance to catch up on what had happened since the end of the First War, and the suspicion of another war coming. However, the conversation is more pleasant, a reminder that not all things are as bad as they seem.
Ummm...this should definitely be longer than a one-shot. :)
It was great! Their conversation was so lovely, and I just love your characterization of Tonks, and Remus' reaction to her.
Great one-shot!
Author's Response: Thank you so much for reading! I know it could have been longer than a oneshot; maybe I'll write a companion piece later. It was just an idea that came to me and I had to write it down. Thank you again for the comments. :)
A Miserable Rebel by Sainyn Swiftfoot
Rated: 1st-2nd Years [Reviews - 4]
Summary:
Featuring Anrdomeda Tonks (née Black), Druella Black (née Rosier) and an argument. [dialogue-only oneshot]
This is Sainyn Swiftfoot of Hufflepuff house submitting for the Gift of Gab challenge.
It is easy to see why Andromeda would want to escape to a life free of prejudice and full of love with Ted Tonks. Her mother is scary and very similar in her beliefs to Sirius' mother; it is how I imagine growing up with Mrs. Black must have been. Her mother was more upset that he was a Mudblood rather than the fact that they were swimming in the lake or snogging in broom closets. Her illogical beliefs just fly in the face of everything normal; I found myself right with Andromeda going, "Yea, so, what's the problem?!"
I wonder how long it took poor Andromeda to realize that arguing with her mother is like talking to the wall. That's the sense I got reading this - which I thought was what you were trying to achieve, so, hopefully that's what you were going for! Rationing with someone like this is futile. I thought she was going to get punished more harshly with her comments about her mother and father's relationship, actually. Quite a cheeky girl, Andromeda. :D
I think it might have made more sense for her to have found a letter from Ted, but the plot device worked just the same, as it let Andromeda put down her family rather than Ted, and it let Ted's character remain without fault except for his blood status in the eyes of her mother. Though it didn't do him much good.
The icing on the cake on this story was Andromeda's declaration of striving to be known as a failure to her mother. The paragraph where she declares this to now be her great pleasure in life was very satisfying to read, because even though I knew her mother STILL wouldn't get it…I knew Andromeda must have felt darn good saying it. And it made her mother speechless for once.
Oh, wait, then she's Petrified. Well, I know that eventually the story has a happy ending, so I guess this unhappy ending for now is okay. Just kidding, just kidding. I thought the ending was quite great, actually, as her mother abruptly curses her and throws her in the dungeon. Probably the most realistic ending, lol. But I know Andromeda got to hear her mother's final cruel words.
I was never confused as to who was speaking, which can be quite difficult in this type of writing, so kudos!, and I really enjoyed this look into a minor character! Great story!
~Amanda
