Sherlock, aka the latest fandom to take over my life.
This list covers BBC Sherlock (general, post-Reichenbach, hot sex, AU and abandoned WIPs), RDJ movie verse (regular and AU) and Conan Doyle book verse. Unless stated otherwise, all summaries are by me and all stories are Sherlock Holmes/John Watson slash. The vast majority are HEA and first time. "New!" indicates stories recently added to the list; the stories themself might not be recent per se.
BBC Sherlock
NEW! A Brand of Gold by aquabelacqua. Mature, 13 K. When John's date night while in Scotland for a medical conference doesn't quite go as hoped, he finds himself texting his best friend to assuage his loneliness. It somehow turns into giving Sherlock flirting lessons via text - or is it actual flirting? A great mix of epistolary and narrative that manages to feel at once light, funny and real. , and that makes our two men feel amazingly close emotionally in spite of the distance. Sherlock's text voice is spot on, and I loved seeing John relax almost as soon as he started texting his friend, and realizing just how happy and warm SSherlock could make him feel. Not to speak of other, ahem, "hotter" emotions later on :).
NEW! A Terrific Soporific by antietamfalls. Teen, 11 K. During a case away, Sherlock finally finds the cure to his longtime insomnia: sleeping in a bed with John. From then on, he'll do everything to worm his way into his friend's bed again. Much less cracky than I made it sound! You can actually feel Sherlock's increasing restlessness and desperation as sleep continues to elude him and the beautiful peace he finds after he shares John's bed. Sherlock being Sherlock, he experiments to make sure his hypothesis is sound, but once it's proven, what out for his outlandish schemes! A fav trope done very well, with a nice fluffy finale.
Crazy for Love by prettyvk. Teen, 99 K. Sherlock somehow finds himself adopting Jim Moriarty's abused child. First in a series, fantastic parentlock. (Better summary to come)
A Question of Identity by VolceVoice. 41K, teen. The observations of an amnesiac murder witness force John to rethink his assumptions about Sherlock, himself, and the definition of love (author's summary ). Fantastic genius OC that doesn't feel like a Mary sue or a Sherlock copy at all. I love her to pieces.
Synthesis by LapOtter. Explicit, 40 K. An injury leaves Sherlock with his mental faculties intact, but unable to put his thoughts into words. Therapy proves to be a difficult, frustrating and sometimes depressing process, but with John's dedicated help, everything is a bit more bearable. Lovely h/c fic in which shared trials brings our boys together. Stunning and very realistic portrayal of aphasia as seen by the aphasic person, the challenges of daily life (nicely showcased by the main case weaved throughout) and the ups and downs of therapy. Especially loved the concept of musical therapy, which felt perfect for Sherlock. And what about the one word that Sherlock remembered how to say right from the start? Awww! **Unfortunately the author seems to have deleted their fic, so here's the link to the podfic.**
Salivate by 221B_hound. Explicit, 5 K. John licks up all his new chocolates to protect them from Sherlock's grabby hands, but it turns out to not quite be the deterrent he had expected. OR: In which Sherlock and John find themselves kissing by way of chocolate. Not written for Valentine's day yet it's the most perfect V-day fic I have ever read! Funny, sweet, with a very poignant moment of realization when John confronts Sherlock in the kitchen.
Follow my voice by flawedamythyst. Teen, 9 K. John is deep into a coma, but a voice anchors him to life. Absolutely amazing! John's thought process and his growing awareness of himself and his environment was stunningly done, and the way Sherlock's voice was the one thing that brought him back to life, one baby step at a time, was...awww!
Down slow by scullyseviltwin. Explicit, 5 K. Their first time happens naturally, on a quiet and companionable night in at 221B. Simple, tender and infinitely sweet.
A shipless ocean by myswordfishmind. Mature, 22 K. Slightly AU. Returning from dismantling Moriarty's network after 10 years, Sherlock goes to the coastal town where a widowed John now lives with his 7-year-old son. Reconnecting won't be easy, but it will all be worth it in the end. Beautifully written with a painful , believable and gradual forgiveness process. Nice introspection on Sherlock's part, and lovely characterisation of John's son Samson.
What this flesh has gone through by Moranion. Mature, 6.5 K. Sherlock/John/Mary. Mary saw Sherlock and John's feelings from the start. She didn't mind, far from it. Really good and captivating Mary POV for the events starting at Sherlock's return until the end of HLV, and beyond as they progress into a menage relationship. No huge introspection, with short and direct writing style that suits the 'show-no-tell' style of the story, yet we end up with a great character study that's perfectly in line Mary as she is showed in the series. The evolution of the relationship between the three feels seemless and logical,
Speak now, or forever hold your peace by flawedamythyst. All audiences, 4.7 K. Sherlock fully intended to let his best friend and secret love get married to somene else on this day. He genuinely did. But, well, accidents happen. Last-minute confessions, selfless Sherlock and true love, what's not to like? Written pre-season 3.
* Nature and Nurture by earlgreytea68. Mature, 203 K. The world's first clone baby has been created, and it's a clone of Sherlock. Sherlock decides immediately that nobody but him will raise this baby - and of course, John is not about to let Sherlock take care of a baby alone. Sounds like crack, but addressed in a completely serious fashion with beautiful sensitivity and humour. An amazing journey about family, emotional connections, and the practical and psychological challenges of raising a baby - that is both a clone and a Holmes, at that -, especially when you aren't even a couple... until you are, which brings a whole new layer of issues. Sherlock and John's adaptation to their role of parents was both instant and a long and realistic process, and the way Oliver was so like Sherlock, in a baby way, made my heart melt. Heartbreaking insight into Sherlock's childhood.
* Sheets by emmagrant01. Explicit, 6 K. Stag night fix-it. What might have happened at 221B if Tessa hadn't interrupted the Rizla game. The fic all Johnlock fans were hoping for after Sign of Three! Feels like a perfect, logical continuation of the actual episode, with both men just a tiny bit more drunk and a lot more forward and honest. Incredibly hot, like all emmagrant fics, but also full of feelings and perfect character voices.
John Watson's Twelve Days of Christmas by earlgreytea68. Mature, 53 K. Slightly AU. In which our boys meet working as department store Christmas elves, Sherlock gets John fired, invites him over to spend Christmas with his mother as his pretend boyfriend, and decides to woo him over the 12 days of Christmas. Lovely Christmas fic, cracky in the beginning but adorable and fluffy afterwards. Nice domestic atmosphere and great take on the pretend boyfriend trope, with our boys clumsily feeling their way around each other and desperately falling for each other all the while believing the other out of reach. Oh, boys.
Immortal Beloved by Greywash. Explicit, 24 K. Contains both Sherlock/OMCs and John/OMC. John is appalled when he learns that Sherlock pays Uni students for sex and tries to make up for his flatmate's attitude to the latest one. The situation gets tangled up beyond anything he would have imagined. Great lesson on the messiness of human relationships, the pitfalls of good intentions and how nobody's perfect - even John, who starts so high and mighty and ends up getting a painful lesson himself. Andrew was a beautifully fleshed OMC.
The Clock Turns Backwards by Moranion. Teen, 4.4 K. Sherlock/John/Mary. Starts immediatley where His Last Vow leaves off. Since Sherlock appears to be back for good, it means some feelings can finally be brought to light safely. Gorgeous fic, very emotionally charged and fabulous OT3 continuation of the episode; this is as close to fluff as those three could be at this time. Emphasis of the fic is more on John's feeelings, but Mary is very much the driving force that bring them all together. Love this author's refreshingly friendly vision of Mary.
Their great reward by BeautifulFiction. Teen, 10 K. Having left his sister's early after Christmas due to an incoming snowstorm, John expects to spend a lonely and cold Boxing Day in power-less 221B, until Sherlock unexpectedly turns up. A quiet and tender moment of companionship that turns into more, in a 221B become impossibly romantic with candlelight, good whiskey, a shared quilt and falling snow.
* Just a Kiss by emmagrant01. Explicit, 20 K. 5 + 1. It took five instances of John and Sherlock having to kiss for a case before they decided to do it for themselves. One of my favorite tropes, squee! The cases forcing them to kiss were all rather believable, and there was a delicious escalation (both in terms of physical contact and self-awareness on both characters' part) from one vignette to the next. Nice alternance between Sherlock and John's POV so we get both men's thoughts.
The Detective and the Pinup by XistentialAngst. Teen, 16 K. John was a very sexy August pinup for an army calendar 10 years ago and it's about to come back and bite him in the ass. Very funny and sexy story with a terribly embarrassed yet determined John, who takes hilarious measure to prevent Sherlock from finding out what all the Yard knows. Loved Sherlock's conflict and arousal. And God I really want someone to art what John looked like in that photo.
* Corpus Hominis by mycapeisplaid. Explicit, 48 K. A gorgeous story about the perception and exploration of bodies and the sense of touch, along with an intriguing case at a spa getaway that serves both as excuse and common thread. Pining John and somewhat tentative and so courageous Sherlock who'll make your heart squeeze and melt at the same time. And then fan yourself once he does recover his confidence and start talking dirty! Woah.
* Midnight Blue Serenity by BeautifulFiction. 151 K, explicit. Casefic. Sherlock goes undercover as as barman in a club to solve a series of gruesome murder/rapes. John is both utterly fascinated and worried. Excellent mystery, great character voices and oh, the UST! Especially lovely were the little bits where John and particularly, Sherlock, allowed themselves to be vulnerable in front of the other.
If you can't move heaven, raise hell by splix. Casefic, Explicit, 83 K. At the request of an old girl friend of Sherlock's, Sherlock and John head to an Italian monastery to investigate the disappearance of a precious artefact. Great mystery, cool and detailed world-building about the monastery and its history, nice UST. Does contain Sherlock/OMC and John/OMC.
Their Whole Life Through by eight_demands. PG, 12 K. Slightly AU. All the doctors at his new surgery think the posh git with recurring crazy injuries is the patient from hell, but Dr. John H. Watson doesn't think Sherlock Holmes is half-bad. At last he makes things interesting. Love how John doesn't take any shit from Sherlock! Totally BAMF.
Syncopation by scullyseviltwin. Teen, 3.3 K. Sherlock can't understand what a simple dance could mean to someone. John shows him. Pre-slash. This is a wonderfully tender moment, full of unnamed feelings.
Planet Sherlock by pir8fancier. Mature, 6.5 K. Exasperated by Sherlock cockblocking him at every turn, John explains that to him, sex is as captivating as severed fingers found in a weird pattern in a locked room. Sherlock is highly intrigued. Fascinating characterization, and original presentation.
The Heart and Other Fleshy Organs by stickstockstone. Slightly surnatural or something. In a world where you literally wear or lend your heart the way you'd do a piece of jewelry. Sherlock got rid of his at an early age, figuring it would never be of any use anyway. But then he met John. Strange and crazy concept masterfully and movingly executed. A refreshingly novel take.
The Yearly Revolution by methimyesterday. Teen, 3.5 K. Sherlock deleted seasons when he was young. John's arrival makes him appreciate them anew, because each one reveals a new side of his friend. Very original angle for describing Sherlock and John's growing friendship/relationship! Nice different writing style as well, and the idea of deleting seasons makes an odd Sherlock sort of sense, given how they're linked to the solar system.
Drift by atropabelladonna1120. PG, 2.8 K. John and Sherlock meet again in their sixties after having lost touch for many years. Made me cry like a baby because I can't bear the idea of those two having allowed themselves to grow apart when there is still such warm affection and easy, immediate familiarity between them, and yet it felt all too plausible. Bittersweet. ETA , Nov 12, 2014: skimmed quickly again and yes, still makes me cry just as much. God. *sniffles*
Monster by Moony. Mature, 18 K. John knows Sherlock for real, 100%. But when Sherlock vanishes and London is struck by increasingly violent crimes he is seemingly responsible for, even John starts to doubt what is pretend and what is real. Fascinating play on Sherlock's moral ambiguity and the depth of John's loyalty and trust. Will keep you on the edge of your seat, not knowing what to believe.
A Quiet Murmuration by cathedral_carver. Teen, 4.6 K. Sherlock owes John an apology. They agree on retaliation in the form of a thousand kisses. Funny and so sweet. A fluffy favorite.
The Heart in the Whole by verityburns. Explicit, 101 K. Sherlock is blinded following the events of The Great Game and discovers that there are a few things he'd always been blind to... until now. Blissfully long and jam-packed with UST that lasts and lasts and oooooh yes more! :-DDD
* The progress of Sherlock Holmes by ivyblossom. Explicit, 62 K. Sherlock is head over heels for John, but you wouldn't know it by looking at him (author's summary). First person POV (Sherlock's), something I normally hate but could easily accept here because of the level of skill and the stunning insight it offered us into Sherlock's unique thought process. The narrative is a choppy, whirlwind stream of consciousness that shows us not only how brilliant Sherlock is and how encompassing his senses, but how rich his imagination is and how much emotion he hides inside. Atypical getting-together with John that involves infidelity. Written pre-season 3.
* Like Bad Wallpaper by flawedamythyst. PG, 6K. Sherlock goes with John to Harry Watson's wedding, and everybody believes they're a couple. Again. When they discuss why that might be, they come to a few realizations about each other - and themselves. I never tire of re-reading that one.
* A Study in Sexuality by jupiter_ash. Mature, 10.5 K. John is completely straight, but he falls in love with Sherlock anyway. I LOVE gay-for-you stories and it's done exceedingly well here. Great character study of a straight man confronted to desires he can't reconcile himself with, and nice structure with short scenes interspread with bits of flashforwards or flashbacks.
The Curious Case of the Howl in the Night by sideris. Explicit, 8 K. Sherlock obsessively tries to understand how John could possibly have managed to make him howl, of all things. A rare Establied Realtionship fic I actually enjoyed. At once sweet, hot and cute.
After Mary Died by Manzy. Teen, 5 K. John's wife dies unexpectedly. Sherlock is witness to John's grief and slow recovery, as he helps his beloved friend along as much as he can. Very realistic and heartwrenching depiction of John's pain, nicely structured step-by-step recovery and lovely attentive Sherlock who is still very Sherlock.
Once More, With Feeling by redcarrigan. Teen, 21 K. John lets his mother believe he and Sherlock are a couple to escape her matchmaking obsession. Mommy of course promptly invites them over for the weekend so she can meet her son-in-law. Now all that's left for John is convincing Sherlock to play along... Lovely story! Sherlock's attitude with the 'in-laws' and John's utter bewilderment were priceless. Bonus points for John's dad who is totally BAMF.
The Whore of Babylon was a Perfectly Nice Girl by out_there. Explicit, 33 K. John thought Sherlock was a virgin. Turns out he is not, as in, REALLY really not. John tries to decide whether this matters. Much deeper than you would think! Beyond the (albeit very hot) sex, it's about what it means to be in a relationship, letting go of preconceived ideas to see what lies beneath, and truly learn about another person. This story delves wonderfully into Sherlock's background, motivation and issues, and I loved seeing him through John's fascinated eyes. LOVED the Paris trip!
* Big Brother is Watching You by flawedamythyst. Teen, 5.6 K. Mycroft needs to get Sherlock and John somewhere Moriarty can never touch them. His solution is the Big Brother house. Between Sherlock alienating everyone, John in full badass protective mode, participants driven to tears, ladle fights, sulking and improper use of jam, that edition was probably the best-rated ever. Absolutely hilarious.
Lacuna by coloredink. Explicit, 15.6 K. After an injury during a case that rendered him amnesiac, John is back at 221B for recovery and is led to believe that he and Sherlock used to be in a relationship. Nice take on the amnesia trope. I really enjoyed rediscovering Sherlock and his Relationship with John through John's newly refeshed eyes, and all the ways in which it can be misleading.
The Side of the Angels by KCS. Gen. PG, 8.5 K. Sherlock takes care of John in his own way, even if no one (John included) notices. Until they do. Excellent 5+1, with Sherlock gradually realizing John's importancce and becoming more human. Loved Sherlock's very «logical» solution to the «danger» in part 6 :-D.
Bromance isn't Dead by cyerus. PG, 1.4 K. Johnlock but not focussed on them. People always assume John and Lestrade are a couple - of the disgustingly happy type, even. But no, they just have an epic bromance. Irresistible, even though this isn't my pairing. Love all the cuddling and old-couple habits.
The Pull of One Magnet to Another by ellie_hell. Mature, 47 K. Somewhat AU. Mummy arranged a marriage of convenience between her son Mycroft and an ex-army doctor, but it's Sherlock that John meets first. Between the two men, sparks fly. (author's summary). Love the descriptions of Mummy's matchmaking career and the way John and Sherlock connect right from the star. Very interesting case too.
Let's make a bed out in the rain by theimprobable1. Mature, 18 K. Sherlock helps John get over his breakup with Mary. Written pre-season 3. A Sherlock that's maybe a tad more lovelorn and human than I usually like, but a very sweet story and you can't help being moved at what Sherlock is willing to do to see John happy again - nevermind his own feelings for his friend. Awww.
The Fundamental Things Apply by karadin. Teen, 5 K. Shortish Valentine's Day fic. Adorably oblivious Sherlock can't get a hint, so John brings out the big guns. Sweet and rather funny.
It was worth a wound by viridian-violet. Gen, 2 K. "It was worth a wound; it was worth many wounds; to know the depth of loyalty and love which lay behind that cold mask." Modern BBC Sherlock version of the famous quote. Wonderful hurt/comfort story with a very distraught Sherlock. Also on AO3.
Horse and carriage series by flawedamythyst. PG, 60 K for the full series (14 parts). Well done, touching and fun "asexual!Sherlock-convincing-straight!John-to-marry-him". It was the first of this trope I read and it's still my favorite. Also on LJ.
POST-REICHENBACH
NEW! Detective stories by esama. Gen, 10 K.
His best man by westernredcedar. Teen, 11 K. John is no Sherlock, but he learned some detecting skills over the years and it doesn't take long before he starts putting clues together and coming up with the correct conclusions... My favorite John-figures-it-out fic! John's grief and enduring loyalty to Sherlock were poignatly done, and his deductive process was totally in character and thrilling. Nice fixing or explaning of some canon plot holes - this actually makes SENSE.
As Though His Heart Were Breaking by veronamay. PG, 1.7 K. Sherlock returns from the dead. John takes it in stride. Or does he? Painfully awkward, almost anticlimatic, deceptively simple, utterly realistic and will break your heart and make it whole again. I WANT THIS IN EPISODE 3.1.
I awoke, only to find my lungs empty by Vascheren. Teen, 2.3 K. Sherlock secretely watches John sleep every night, a never-ending fascination he can't help indulging in. Pre and post-Reichenbach, Sherlock and John POV respectively. Interesting study of Sherlock's character, loving and full of hope. Pre-slash.
HOT SEX (but more than porn - well, most of the time)
* NEW! Best of three by SilentAuror. Explicit, 17 K.
NEW! A Satisfactory Arrangement by SilentAuror. Explicit, 18 K.
NEW! Between Friends by SilentAuror. Explicit, 18 K.
Curious case by Cleo2010. Explicit, 45K. After Sherlock burns his hands and nearly goes crazy after a few days, John learns that his flatmate normally goes through a daily masturbation session - complete with prostate massage - to clear his head. John "reluctantly" accepts to help, but soon gets carried away way beyond what he expected. Hot, hot, hot! I don't normallly subscribe to a highly sexed Sherlock, but damn if that wasn't hot as hell. The sex quickly escalated to become more intimate and John's inhibitions collapsed dangerously quick as well. And did I mention it is hot?
The Cyrano connection by pringlesaremydivision. Explicit, 12 K. John keeps Sherlock on a semi-permanent mute when he rambles about his cases. However, when Sherlock starts reading a client's dirty letters out loud, all of John comes to attention... So well written you can almost hear Sherlock's voice saying those naughty, naughty words in his deep voice and I dare you not to get flutterings in your stomach. Obviously, secretly-in-love John won't be able to resist either. Scorching hot sex with just enough feelings to make it meaningful. And the visual of a ravaged, incredibly aroused Sherlock will stay in your memeory.
* I'm not actually a pervert by dorothydonne. Explicit, 7 K. AU. A restless John Watson walks into an adult video booth for a wank, and discovers instead the addictive joys of glory hole sex. Nice writing that avoids the potential sordidness of such a theme, and electrifying sex that makes it completely believable that John would get carried away and get on with a man. Bonus points for highly sexy confident Sherlock, who manages to be imperious even when all John can see of him is his fingers.
Downpour by Keelywolfe. Mature, 4 K. Sherlock and John get stuck hiding in an very small alley alcove in pouring rain, and all that friction gives unexpected results. OK, that one is pretty much just for the porn *grin*. If you'd like a visual, this lovely artwork is an almost perfect fit for the scene.
* Poster Boys by peevee. Explicit, 2.5 K, Sherlock/John/Lestrade AU, underage and age difference. Summer camp consellor Lestrade thought he had his hands full already with rebellious teen Sherlock Holmes - but that was before Sherlock hooked up with golden boy John Watson and decided he wanted Lestrade to teach them about sex. Hot like woah! Lestrade is much older and in a position of authority over our two underage boys, but it never feels like abuse since Sherlock is pretty obviously the pursuer here. Poor Lestrade doesn't know what hit him! A very guilty pleasure with naughty, naughty sex.
Fifth Time's the Charm by SteampunkFrood. Explicit, 5.4 K. John might just be a little gay for Sherlock. Or else they're having quite a lot of "accidental" sex. Fabulous gay-for-you fic that manages to make the characters have sex 5 times and yet make it feel like the first every time. Lots of tension, some angst and great sex.
* The Art of Seduction series by flawedamythyst: A Study in Pulling, The Distressed Doctor and Changing the Game. AU, explicit, about 85 K total. Sherlock meets Queer as Folks! Sherlock is a consulting seducer devoting his entire life to the study and experimentation of sex. The only man in the universe Sherlock WON'T sleep with seems to be his best friend John - to said John's everlasting chagrin. Hilarious and highly entertaining romp that twists the usual asexual Sherlock into a (very) Sexual Sherlock! Witty dialogue, fantastic character-building, and wonderful evolution of Sherlock throughout the arc, especially in part 3. Series also on LJ.
* A Cure for Boredom by emmagrant01. Explicit (very much so), 82 K. An offhand remark of John's gets Sherlock fascinated in an experiment about sex. More specifically, about watching John having sex. Oh, my. Steaming hot, pushing John and the reader's boundaries with every chapter, yet never crossing the line of what I can't accept or don't want to see happening. And beneath it all, the core is always about Sherlock and John.
* A Study in Reflexology by Keelywolfe. Explicit, 11 K. Aftercare following an injury to Sherlock's foot, then later one to John's head, suddenly heats up into highly erotic encounters between the two flatmates. Such great writing, carrying things from companionship to UST to scorching up sex so fluidly it feels natural and inevitable, and God do you feel the heat! Superb characterization of John with his doubts and internal screams of "not gay", even as he is drawn to Sherlock's body as a moth to a flame.
Shocking by Celebratorypenguin. Explicit, 3.2 K. Sherlock is stuck with a humiliating condition as the result of adrenalin after The Great Game and is forced to seek John's help. The relieving turns into something more. More heartfelt than simple porn, but yeah, I did read it for the trope :). Hottest hand jobs I've read in a good while!
Build You a Kingdom by Vascheren. Mature, 5 K. There's a heat wave in London and John is sweating it out in their stuffy flat. And has way too much time to think and watch Sherlock. First time and scorching hot! With deliciously devious, shameless Sherlock :-D.
AU
NEW! Left by lifeonmars. Mature, 45 K, magical realism.
NEW! Spell it out by prettysailorsoldier. Mature, 8 K. Potterlock.
NEW! Where the good things grow by anchors. Mature, 7 K. John's family gardener Sherlock has a magical garden.
NEW! The Virgin and The Prostitute by cheshirecat101. Explicit, 23 K.
NEW! The Frost Child by twistedthicket1. Mature, 10 K, magical realism.
NEW! Names for the galaxy by avadne. Explicit, 191 K. Alien! Sherlock.
NEW! A Magic Moment by alexxphoenix42. Potterlock.
NEW! Velvet and Bone by mildredandbobbin. Explicit, 55 K. Faun!lock. When Dr John Watson moves to the remote village of Bakerstown, he is brought to meet one of its most unusual and occasional inhabitants. Current day but has a somewhat surreal, timeless quality to it. Love the way Sherlock's antlers and eating habits mark the passage of time.
NEW! Whole and Unbroken by lotherington. Teen, 2 K, magical realism. Sherlock and John's paths are cursed to only ever cross every February 29, but that cannot stop the intense connection that's developed instantly between them. Incredibly original concept done so well that you have no trouble believing in the depth of the attraction between the two men, even though they only meet on a total of 5 days over 16 years - and two of those are barely even "encounters". You can totally feel the intensity, the confusion over their battering hearts, the instant bond, the anguish of separation, and the desperate hope on the last night as they wrap themselves around each other. Just love it.
Knight Magic by suitesamba. Mature, 22 K. Potterlock. When Sherlock's desperate cry for help one London night is answered by the appearance of an inexplicable purple bus, he gets forcefully reintroduced to a world he had forgotten and long left behind... a world of which John is also part of. Possibly my favorite non-teen Potterlock story! I love the way we "discover" the magical world along with Sherlock, as an outsider of sorts, and oh, the reason why he would chose to leave made so much sense with the character and made my heart squeeze. Lots of deeply moving moments on Sherlock's journey back, including the gorgeous revelation of the unknown connection between him and John.
** The Gilded Cage by beautifulfiction. Explicit, 327 K. Alpha John's world is turned upside down when he learns something completely unexpected about his flatmate. A pure gem of a story, no matter if you're a fan of omegaverse or not, or even if you have no idea what that is. The author has managed to develop a complex and incredibly realistic - if appalling - AU universe, with an alpha/omega society, history, culture, and politics, and mesh it seamlessly with the Sherlock world that we know and love. As usual, Sherlock conforms to no stereotypes, and he and John race against the clock to solve the most important case they've ever had, one that has the power to transform the world they live in and make their love possible. Deep emotionally wrenching trials for our heroes, especially the detective himself.
Ensnared by TheGeekCooks. Explicit, 14 K. While out hunting, John rescues a half-man, half-fawn creature caught in a snare and brings it home to tend to its injuries. He slowly gains the creature's trust and valiently tries to resist the lure of its beauty. Love how patiently and lovingly John cares for Sherlock and tries to tame him bit by bit. Sherlock's muteness and the insistance on his animal side gives the fic a sometimes uncomfortable edge of bestiality - you never quite see him as a man- but it is somewhat assuaged by his obvious desire and most especially, the ending.
Scales and skin by TheMadKatter13. Explicit, 15 K. Omegaverse/Harry Potter crossover. Wandering on the edges of the lake in the throes of his first heat, Gryffindor John Watson is offered help by an unusual merman. Great crossover. I love the relationship that develops between the two and how they make their friendship work even though one of them lives in the water (hint: magic does help!), and the insight into Sherlock's merpeople universe. Still beating myself for not foreseeing the ending faster!
* Diamond in the rough by TheMadKatter13. Explicit, 29 K. Teen Sentinel Sherlock was peeved at his Guide brother Mycroft for forcing him to accompany him to Afghanistan to track down a powerful hidden Guide in the British army, and decides to find the Guide himself. He didn't expect to develop an immediate and powerful attraction to the older man. Very nice use of the Sentinel verse and nice dominant John and pushy younger Sherlock. The instant connection between the two men is palpable, both on a physical and metaphysical level, and the age difference lends a thrilling edge to the whole thing, made acceptable by both the obvious consent on Sherlock's part and the particularities of the Sentinel universe.
Shatter the darkness (Let the light in) by MojoFlower. Explicit, 109 K. Genie! Sherlock. A depressed John randomly buys an old oïl lamp from an antique store, and unknowingly frees an idiosyncratic genie who brings color to his life again. Really nicely trumps the easy and expected solution to genie stories early on, allowing the story to develop in a way that nicely exploits Sherlock's backstory. Interesting portrayal of an unusually insecure and suicidal John, and complex Sherlock: cynical and wary, yet yet full of Wonder and highly sensual. Bonus points for his shameless lounging about in sheer trousers :-D. Lots of very pretty illos embedded in story.
Man and Beast by Jupiter_Ash. Explicit, 20 K. Captured by scientists who want to learn about his kind, werewolf Sherlock waits impatiently for rescue, trying to not go completely crazy with boredom. But when a short, attractive blond solider gets thrown in his cell, it will bring his wolf instincts closer to the surface than ever. Very Nice twist on the prison fic trope, and interesting portrayal of Sherlock as a werewolf and the battle between his intellect and instincts. The mating instinct, once it manifests, is very sudden and irresistible, yet it works, we feel that connection between the two men. Very hot sex, semi-public for most of it. No bestiality.
* Cracks in the wall by sweetcupncakes. Explicit, 83 K. Teen AU. Two years after his mother dies, John's father remarries with one Violet Holmes. The two families and step-siblings slowly learn to live together, but the feelings John develops for Sherlock are far from brotherly. Beautiful awakening of feelings between the two teens, followed by really hot hormone-fueled sexual exploration! All the family members are well-developed, and the issue of step-sibling incest is adressed realistically and sensitively.
*Colors by Quesarasara. Mature, 141 K. In a world where people see in black and white until they meet their soulmate, John grew up dreaming of the day he'd see colors, and Sherlock believing he never would. Fascinating concept really well developed, but made all the more interesting in that while it is an essential part of the story, it does not make up the whole of it: this is simultaneously a family saga, a casefic and a Johnlock romance, that simply happens to be set in a universe where things are different. It's so rare to see a magical realism universe done so beautifully!
Latent by Hisstah. Explicit, 218 K. Omegaverse and Sentinel crossover, somewhat dystopian. Recently returned from Afghanistan and hiding from authorities that would have all latent Guides like him bonded by force to the highest bidder, independant omega John Watson takes a janitor's job at a hospital and meets an unusual young sentinel that makes him reconsider all his convictions. A nicely developed and detailed AU, easy to understand even to neophytes of Sentinel and omegaverse. The unbelievable level of social inequality, gender prejudice and political corruption in this Omegaverse made me want to scream and throw things on a regular basis, but it worked for me because John is a total BAMF who shows stereotypes for the idiocy they are - although he does succumb to some of them a few times, most annoyingly at the end. Not quite enough to completely detract from the rather epic plot and mostly great Johnlock relationship, fortunately, and even the Mpreg references (a concept that creeps me out) were tastefully done.
* Spare change by ermerness. Explicit, 52K. At the party organized by his mother to pick him a spouse who'll further the family's fortune, filthy rich and desperately bored Sherlock meets John Watson, temporary waiter and first person person to not bore him in, ever. So delightful to see John getting bowled over by Sherlock's rich man's ways, and the growing awe and exasperated fondness that develop on both men's part. It's funny how little difference being insanely rich makes when it comes to Sherlock's character, except for the scale of his bribes :-D.
* The Frost is all over by Chryse. Explicit, 148 K. 19th century. 14-year old John becomes a stable boy on the Holmes domain and develops a fierce, unlikely friendship with the family's prickly younger son, lord Sherlock. Epic Dickensian saga with fantastic depiction of everyday life in industrial times (both on country estates and factories/prisons) and an amazing cast of three-dimensional OCs and repurposed Sherlock characters that come vividly to life. Love how Sherlock and John's passionate friendship remains their solace throughout and somehow always retains a feeling of purity no matter how harshly the world strips their illusions from them. Warning for graphic abuse and attempted rape (neither boy actually gets raped).
* How to build a Heart out of Ashes by Teumassian. Explicit, 144 K. When his shape-shifting abilities unexpectedly surface, teenage John gets sent to a special school and befriends an intriguing and moody panther shifter. Wonderfully developed universe with its lore and customs that feels a cross between X-Men, Harry Potter and Teen Wolf - but better. Sherlock's background story was heartbreaking. Love how the wandering investigation was weaved through the daily school life and accompanied the development of the Relationship between the two boys; last part of said investigation came as a complete surprise to me and was extremely well done. Warning for mentions of incest and sexual abuse.
* The Beast of Baskerville by Mildredandbobbin. Explicit, 74 K (must be logged in to AO3 to view). 15th century AU inspired by Red Riding Hood. Trying to find his place in the world after his return from war, John Watson settles in the remote village of Baskerville. When murders occurs that may be the work of a werewolf, he finds himself investigating with his new friend Brother Sherlock. Fantastic world building with well-drawn characters. Sherlock and John feel totally true to themselves yet completely at home in this medieval setting. Great slow-building UST with John struggling with his growing forbidden desire for a man of God.
Filthy/Gorgeous by MirabileLectu. Explicit, 88 K. Desperate to feel alive again, John recklessly decides to pick up a male prostitute for the evening. He soon develops a craving for Sherlock, but Sherlock has his own addictions that might destroy him... Angsty and intense, with some tender moments under the cover of night as trust grows. Sherlock is smoldering as the prostitute who always knows what John wants, and you feel for John who is torn apart when he realizes what he's indirectly doing to Sherlock. Some very hot sex in the mix. Warning for heavy drug use. HEA.
Mental by Boeshane42. Explicit, 18 K. Newly hired in a prestigious psychiatric facility, Dr. John Watson finds himself drawn professionally and personally to Sherlock Holmes, a fascinating young man with puzzling psychotic episods. Nice focus on a new side of John's medical abilities, with a very believable extrapolation of what Sherlock's personality might be like in such a context and a good take on what a friendship-teinted doctor-patient dynamic between the two men. Nice UST with an edge of forbidden.
* Most Ghosts are Idiots by GoldenUsagi. Gen, 18K. John won't let himself be chased off his spacious and cheap new flat in central London, even when he finds it's haunted by a ghost who makes a mess of his things, hides his cane, plays the violin at odd hours and bangs messages in Morse code on the pipes. Even in death, Sherlock Holmes is anything but ordinary. Best ghost Sherlock story I've read! Love how John's no-nonsense and accepting attitude gains him Sherlock's interest, his acceptance and eventually, his friendship and how their dynamic is essentially unaltered even though there are no cases and one of them is, well, dead.
The Heart on your Sleeve by flawedamythyst. Teen, 5.4 K. Sherlock had always been proud of the fact that the heartmark on his forearm had never changed color, proving his disinterest in sentiment. But that was before John entered his life. Beautiful premise, and I love how the description of the heartmark's colors and looks tells us more about a person's feelings than words could. Sherlock's emotional journey was so in character and real that it hurt.
* You've begun to feel like home by yalublyutebya. Mature, 25 K. Sherlock Holmes is everything Father John Watson should probably disapprove of. He's an atheist, a rationalist, an addict, and gay. But none of those things is enough to stop him from being the most fascinating person John's ever met (author's summary). Love, love forbidden love stories involving priests (I blame The Thorn Birds) and this one was beautifully done. John makes a wonderful priest, caring and devoted, at first sporadically supporting Sherlock through vulnerable moments of his youth, before he becomes a firm fixture in his life. No underage sex or authority abuse here.
* Strays by keelywolfe. Explicit, 13 K, underage and age difference. Young intern John Watson has been picking up strays since he was a child and knows they never stay. The homeless teen with the pale grey eyes, though, digs his way under his skin. Wonderful accent on John's caregiving nature and nobility of character, relentlessly helping others in spite of the possible hurt to his own heart and resisting Sherlock's advances like a saint. Sherlock is initially wary, vulnerable and full of bravado that it hurts, and it's lovely to see him slowly opening up to John's kindness, turning to him like a (reluctant) sunflower.
Saving Sherlock Holmes by earlgreytea68. Mature, 139 K. Sherlock and John meet as schoolboys at Eton. Never boring! Little actual school content: it's all about what happens outside of class and on break, because that's where life truly happens. Sherlock is as atypical a schoolboy as you'd imagine, and I loved John's quiet strenght, which allowed him to make his way to Eton and made him such a perfect match for Sherlock. Mrs Hudson describes it beautifully at some point. Lestrade is wonderful as the one tutor to finally understand Sherlock, and he gets a great secondary romance with Mycroft, who raised Sherlock when he was barely grown himself and who is showed here in all his complexity and doubts.
Bel Canto by bendingsignpost. Teen, 127 K. Phantom of the Opera AU. John Watson is the unofficial official doctor for the Opera House and finds himself striking a friendship with its most remote and unusual inhabitant. **to complete**
* A Study in Winning by Jupiter_Ash (Explicit, 107 K) and its sequels of the Tennis series. Sherlock, arrogant tennis star on the rise, meets veteran-on-the-decline John Watson at Wimbledon. Not to miss, even if you're not interested in tennis! Yes, there's a good amount of background tennis speech (mostly commentaries during the games), but it wasn't annoying at all, and if it's too much for you, it's easy to just skim it to surmise the information relevant to the plot. Love edgy, superstitious athlete!Sherlock who hides so much behind his cocky French (!) public persona, and how his mere presence breathes new confidence and energy into John (the tennis tips he gives him don't hurt either). Great insight into the routine of top athletes, behind-the-scenes view of Wimbledon and lots of cameos by famous tennis players (in name only, but it was still thrilling).
Family Affairs by s0mmerspr0ssen. Kid!fic, Gen (obviously). 9-year-old orphan John Watson is adopted by the Holmes family to provide a companion to their genius but difficult younger son. Wondeful characterization of the two men as children and so believable! Gen, obviously.
* It feels like home when I'm with you by ethotepii. John died in Afghanistan and haunts his former flat, when a new tenant moves in. Captivating premise and execution. I love how the author deals with John being a ghost, and the ingenious ways he and Sherlock find to communicate - and how that connection works only with the two of them. :)
Blue veins by lbmisscharlie. PG, 2 K. You know from birth the exact moment you'll meet your soulmate; you just don't know who it will be. Ingenious and inventive story that made an odd premise amazingly believable. Beautiful with almost poetic narrative.
The Man by An Other Name by mia6363. Bourne Identity, Sherlock style. When a highly trained and amnesiac unassuming-looking man stops a robbery in London, Scotland Yard calls in Sherlock to try to find his identity. Fantastic retelling of the movie, adapted to Sherlock's universe and cast! John is the awesomest BAMF ever, yet totally himself, and Sherlock is utterly captivated by this walking mystery :-D.
* Performance in a Leading Role by MadLori. Explicit, 167 K. Novel-lenght and professional quality. Oscar-winning actor in a slump Sherlock Holmes and romcom-heartthrob-trying-to-prove-himself John Watson are picked as the leads in an indie movie about gay lovers. After an initial clash, the two men strike a deep friendship like neither has known before... that then turns into a love that will change Hollywood forever. Quite simply one of the best M/M stories I've ever read either in fandom (ANY fandom) or original fiction. Astonishingly realistic portrayal of Hollywood life and filmmaking with tons of thrilling real-life references.
ABANDONED WIPs (but still interesting to read):
Incantations and Deductions by hbomb90. WIP. Because even at Hogwarts, skills other than magic can come in handy. The unlikely friendship of one John Watson, pride of Gryffindor, and Sherlock Holmes of Slytherin. Based on this absolutely fabulous drawing. By far the best HP AU I've read. Abandoned after about 50 K and 12 parts. Links to next parts are in notes below th story box.
Beauty (nonsignificant) by luthierdreams. WIP. Retelling of The Beauty and the Beast. Sherlock doesn't mind at all being stuck in the house of the Beast, John, who provides such a fascinating mystery to solve. Abandoned after 7 chapters and 16.4 K.
Like a house on fire by lawatsonholmes. WIP. John is a firefighter, and Sherlock is a trouble magnet. They were fated to meet. Abandoned after 5 chapters and 14.6 K.
A thousand words by VampirePam. Newsroom/journalism AU, WIP. Former war reporter John Watson seems to be the only person briliant but excentric photographer Sherlock doesn't hate on sight. Fabulous idea wonderfully well-suited to the Sherlock characters. The author got the characters spot-on, to much hilarity. Future casefic. Abandoned after 2 chapters and 8.2 K.
Making the Connection by JessamyGriffith. WIP. John works as a phone sex operator. A bored Sherlock trying to prove a hypothesis calls one night. Neither man expects the connection that develops between them. Abandoned after 40 chapters and 97 K.
2009 movie (RDJ)
Soldier's heart by Piplover. Explicit, 85 K. Watson has seen the condition that ails Holmes before, in soldiers haunted by memories of war. He recognizes the signs; after all, he's been there himself. Captivating depiction of PTSD in the 19th century. **to complete**
These Things Were Promises by Paperclipbitch. Explicit, 53 K. Watson knows Holmes might know him better than he does himself, but he doesn't think either of them is quite ready for it yet. Not quite a good summary - it's a lot of push-pull, figuring things out, Watson getting frustrated at Holmes and knowing he can/will never leave. Also the one where Holmes loses track of reality kissing John in alley and John is severely wounded as a result, because that's the main element I remember from it. But anyway, it's really well-written and slow and full of emotion and UST.
Uncharted by BrittanyDiamond. WIP. The recently-engaged Watson is feeling unexplicably restless and all he knows is that it has to do with Holmes. However finding the "why" is going to rock his Victorian sensibilities and his perception of himself to the core. **to complete**
Mistakes of our Youth by candle_beck. Why did Watson move out of Baker Street? How did he and Holmes come to tear each other apart after a short few months of burning passion and utter happiness? Through a series of flashbacks we see the unraveling of their relationship and whether there is still hope for them. Angsty with bittersweet ending, but beautifully written, consistant with the movie and powerful.
A Terribly Poor Understanding of Love by candle_beck. Mary knows even before John does that her new husband will never be fully happy without Holmes. Wonderful characterization all over, especially the portrayal of a wise and understanding Mary. I love to imagine this as a continuation of the previous, even though it doesn't qute fit :).
AU
Observations on Sentinels and Guides in Victorian London by RyuuzaKochou. Teen, 89 K. Eccentric Dark Sentinel Holmes, unofficial Prime Alpha of London, has had trouble controlling his abilities of late. Former army doctor and newly activated Guide John Watson has trouble adapting to his new abilities and the strictures imposed to Guides in Victorian civil society. They are the answer to each other's problems, if events, politics and a dark plot involving kidnapped Guides can stop conspiring to keep them apart. This was my first ever Sentinel story, a universe I knew nothing about, and I had no problem following this story. While that world and its politics was quite complex, and some subtleties got lost at times, (the speech can get a little metaphysical), it was rich and thrilling so it totally drew me in. Holmes and Watson are separated for most of the story, but it worked because they were thinking of each other and working to find each other again. A thoroughly thrilling journey.
Roll Away Your Stone by foxxcub. Explicit, 39 K. Victorian college AU. 17-year-old John Watson is asked to tutor a difficult new student, Sherlock Holmes. Angsty and intense. Love the slow development of their relationship, from rocky beginnings to teenage fumblings in the intimacy of John's study that progressively grow more and more daring - and especially, their growing emotional intimacy and desire for closeness which they both fear and crave... Of course, being men (and teens), they don't speak about it. Some beautiful visuals, including one of Holmes on the floor next to John's armchair, head on John's thigh.
**TO FIND AGAIN** In a future time where time travel has been licensed as a research tool for historians, Oxford scholar John Watson is sent back to the late 19th century and meets the most intriguing, genius man.
ACD Book verse
NEW! Let me by Violsva. Explicit, 12 K.
NEW! Revelations by pandapony. Explicit, 12 K. In a moment of weakness, Watson brings a male lover back to 221B after a visit to his club and gets caught by Holmes in a compromising position. Holmes is adamant that his dear friend never risks such public exposure ever again. You can probably guess what Holmes will suggest and you'd be right! Fantastic victorian-era tone and vocabulary, with a great characterization of Watson, human and faillible and overcome with terror at the idea of losing Holmes' friendship and esteem. Nicely done sort-of OC and woaaaah hot sex (NOT with the OC ;)).
NEW! But why Turkish? by mistyzeo. Explicit, 3 K. A case brings Holmes and Watson to a Turkish bath house of a... special sort. Naturally, being undercover forces one to act a certain way to prevent discovery. One of my favorite tropes! Nice porn-with-a-bit-of-plot ficlet with very good ACD-verse tone and character voices. Just enough wariness about acknowledging/viewing/engaging in male-male relationships to make it realistic in the victorian context yet not versing into angst at all. Plus, hot semi-public sex as the sensual surroundings and requirements of the case throws the two men into an unexpected but definitely not unwelcome intmacy.
The Incident in the Room with the Red Curtain by flawedamythyst. Teen, 10 K. A case brings Holmes in a secret part of London society, in which Watson happens to be well-versed... Well-done victorian version of a popular trope (and favorite of mine *g*). Realistic-looking portrayal of gay society and attitudes in the 19th century.
Cryptology by JaneTurenne. Watson learns that Scotland Yard believes him and Holmes to be lovers. Aware that apparences are against them, he makes plans that... (to complete) Feels like the first of a series that was never written - what a pity- but still mostly complete within itself and beautifully written.
Adventure of the Purloined Heart by ladyblahblah. WIP abandoned after 15.4 K and 3 chapters, to my everlasting chagrin because it was incredibly promising. When a murder is discovered at the invert whorehouse that Watson frequents, he knows he has to risk the possibility of Holmes finding out about his proclivities so justice can be done. Abandoned just we were getting to the meat of the story! :( Watson was getting concerned about Holmes shutting him out of the case and wondering if his friend had found out about him, when a second murder occured. Written with ladyblahblah usual skill, with great character voices and dramatic tension, so worth a read anyway.
* The Maiden Voyage of the Tiresias by shalott. Mature, 3 K. Holmes likes to make up increasingly complex disguises to see whether Watson will see through them. Watson is tired of feeling the fool. When he discovers Holmes' plans for their upcoming ship journey to Cairo, he decides to strike back. Delightful prose and funny almost-mistaken identity story.
* A Lesson in Deduction and its sequel Lead and Follow, by ladyblahblah. Explicit. Holmes forces Watson to use his deductive talents, bringing Watson to a realization about himself. Years later, that comes to the fore when Holmes makes a very unexpected - and irresistible - request of his friend... Very nicely written with good character voices, really hot sex and two adorably idiotic characters. Stories can be read independantly.
Choose your own Holmes/Watson adventure! by JaneTurenne. Fascinating for its myriad of endings, some pretty different from each other.http://archiveofourown.org/works/1007697/chapters/1998533
No comments:
Post a Comment