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

Isaac Asimov

C/Fe by Dorinda

'There are all kinds of programming.' An unusual coming-of-age piece, with a plot to boot! Made me homesick for the original (Caves of Steel series)

[Added 30/12/2005; Drama; 6000-20,000; Isaac Asimov]

The Conscientious Objectors by Grey

Susan Calvin investigates a malfunction at a robotic assembly line. A simple but thought-provoking story, which could easily have been written by Asimov himself

[Added 03/01/2007; Drama; 2500-6000; Isaac Asimov]

Hostage Negotiation by Marcelo

'It's not logical, and, unlike humans, I have yet to see a robot do an illogical thing.' Excellent characterisation in this clever short. Another one that could be a lost story from canon

[Added 03/01/2007; Drama; 1000-2500; Isaac Asimov]

Nice Work If You Can Get It by Astolat

'SU-3, a sleeker model, predictably became Sue.' Powell and Donovan's first field assignment proves anything but straightforward. It's a bit of a clichÉ-fic, perhaps, but the author brilliantly combines canonical plausibility with absolute hilarity

[Added 03/01/2007; Drama; 6000-20,000; Isaac Asimov]

Perigee by Radondoran

'"For Pete's sake, Mike, it's a maid. It's not exactly programmed with the Gricean maxims. Be specific." Powell walked up and addressed the maid himself. "Annie," he read from her nametag, while mentally noting that she was not, in fact, a member of the AN-series, "we're looking for a robot."' Radondoran absolutely nails Asimov's style in this lighthearted casefic, which features a charming original robot. Great fun!

[Added 04/10/2013; Drama; 6000-20,000; Isaac Asimov]

A Woman's Touch by Sath

'"If you'd asked me what I thought the impact of pseudo-female 'companion robots' would be before going ahead with the MR project, I would've told you it'd end exactly like this."' A short case for Susan Calvin that forms a loose sequel to 'Lenny'. Sath successfully retains a strong feel of canon despite distancing the story a little from Asimov's gender prejudices. Believable & poignant

[Added 28/10/2014; Drama; 1000-2500; Isaac Asimov]