Compiled by the Espresso Addict

Espresso Recommendations

Innovative and stylish fanfiction, showcasing the very best across multiple sf, fantasy & literature fandoms. Good writing in all its forms can be found here, including gen, het, slash, OCs, AUs, crossovers, future fics, humour & pastiche

Contents: 1010 recs in 235 fandoms; 65 links

Smallville

All recommendations are from Season 1

Cotton by Vera

A very believable view into Martha's head. Nice concrete detailing and some lovely phrases

[Added 13/01/2004; Character Piece; <1000; Smallville]

A Good Year for the Corn by Beth

Simple idea, but it's the details that make this story for me. The author contrasts style and content very effectively

[Added 13/01/2004; Drama; 1000-2500; Smallville]

Hell Money by FayJay

'Hell Money' is the story that first made me realise that crossovers can be made to work. It crosses Smallville with Angel S2, and knowledge of both is required, but for those who love both series, it packs a resounding punch into fewer than a thousand words. Strongly recommended. If you enjoyed 'Hell Money', then give No Fury a try -- another very clever Smallville crossover

[Added 13/01/2004; Humour; <1000; Smallville; Crossover]

Memento Mori by Jayne Leitch

'L is for Lana; two parents she lacked.' Not many stories make me feel for Lana and this one did; she's excellently characterised, simultaneously interesting and believable

[Added 13/01/2004; Character Piece; 1000-2500; Smallville]

Precipice by Hope

A moment in Whitney's life that unfolds to tell you more about his character than seemed possible. This writing just hums with energy

[Added 13/01/2004; Character Piece; 1000-2500; Smallville]

Quid Quo Pro by Smitty

This well-crafted short story deals with Lillian's death without over-sentimentality, and includes a childhood Lex I can believe in

[Added 13/01/2004; Drama; 2500-6000; Smallville; Crossover]

Shrine by DarkEmerald

Every word counts in this subtle vignette. You get excellent characterisation, fabulous images, and flashes of humour to leaven the angst

[Added 13/01/2004; Character Piece; <1000; Smallville]

Undone by Hope

I like stories that jump out of their mould to bite me. A fluent stylish read, coupled with a well-constructed plot and great characterisation, especially perhaps of Lex

[Added 13/01/2004; Drama; 6000-20,000; Smallville]