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A World Without Sound by The Romanticidal Edwardian

A World Without Sound

The Romanticidal Edwardian

22

106,384

6448

AU, BxE. My name is Bella Swan; good at sign language and karate. My best friend is deaf, and you know what? It doesn't matter.

SPECIAL PERV NOTE: In honor of this week's Edward, you can follow this link to learn how to sign this week's rating, flashback. http://www.signingsavvy.com/sign/FLASHBACK/7047/1

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amoretwilight

Since this is the Perv Pack’s Smut Shack I thought I would start off with…their trip to Paris…a nightclub…jazz music…a booth hidden from view…and a very beautiful Bella giving Edward a very private lap dance that definitely brought things to completion. Just one of those story scenes that stays with you long after reading.

A World Without Sound was one of the first fanfiction stories that I ever read and it is one I won’t forget. It is a beautiful coming of age story for Edward and Bella, beginning their friendship at the early age of five (5) and becoming each other’s everything. In this story Edward is deaf and has to deal with the challenges of living in a world that is full of sounds that are outside of his comprehension. At the early age of five Bella, like most young children, quickly adapts and learns to communicate with Edward.

The story is told from Bella’s point of view and begins in their teenage years, however the author cleverly weaves in moments of their past through flashbacks that are relevant to the storyline. One of my favorite flashbacks was a fairytale moment…at the age of six…Bella and Edward had their first kiss, as Prince Edward rescued Princess Bella from the fiery dragon Carlisle. It was precious, sweet and a moment to be cherished in the story. The memories shared help to fill in the history of their relationship and move the story along. I enjoyed every one.

Given that Edward is deaf and their main method of communication is through sign language, The Romanticidal Edwardian skillfully develops the dialogue “Pp…ah…Er…fff…eh..ct” (to quote a moment in the story). As you read you come to love the use of sign language and how it is effectively written, to the point where you miss it when it isn’t used. Like most couples in love Bella and Edward are so in sync that they are able to communicate with a smile, eye contact and body language.

In the story Edward strives to learn to speak meaningful words like “Bella” and of course “I love you”, and the “I love you” is spoken beautifully with the just the right WOW factor. While I do not understand fully the complexities of hearing impairments and have minimal exposure, I can only imagine the challenges that must be overcome. Throughout the story the author gives the reader a glimpse into the difficulties, whether it is in school, home, or just trying to communicate with the father of the girl you love…when the written word becomes so important. And even then Charlie is a man of few words.

The story takes you through their relationship, from best friends to their first real kiss as teenagers to wedding bells and dealing with the reality of adult life. There are moments I will never forget…when Emmett found them kissing and announced to the house that they finally did it…or Jasper’s birds and the bees speech, signed by Alice…or their last day in Paris at the top of the mountain…

The story has its moments of angst, some related to Edward’s disability and some are events or actions that happen in a lifetime. When I think of A World Without Sound…the words sweet, endearing, loving, innocence, charming, sadness, angst, fierce loyalty, beauty, sexy and hotness come to mind.

Speaking of sexy and hot, The Romanticidal Edwardian makes sure the story has the right amount of spice. Edward is the consummate gentleman, but that doesn’t stop him from getting his groove on with Bella. The sex is hot whether it is in bed or on the kitchen table and Edward’s hands are very skilled, well beyond sign language.

A World Without Sound is complete and a gem in the Twilight FF world…must-read!

Thank you to Ms. Kathy and Kimpy0464 for inviting me to be a guest reviewer. It is my first time…so I hope you like it.

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I had never read A World Without Sound until it came on deck here at The Shack. I have read various fics over the years exploring the facets of people who have both physical and emotional, sometimes even mental, disabilities. This is only the second story where deafness is addressed. In A World Without Sound, Edward was born deaf. In the very first flashback, a devise that The Romanticidal Edwardian uses brilliantly to add an emotional richness and a connection to these two characters, you can already "see" these characters in your mind's eye:

Slowly, he put his hand up to his ear, and shook his head.

The girls brow wrinkled in confusion this time. "What?"

He pointed to his ear again, and shook his head. The girl copied him, and asked, "What, you can't hear?"

He didn't answer, not positive whether she'd gotten it right or not, and just continued to look up at her.

She shrugged. "Well oh well. Let's go play with the tetherball! C'mon!"

This time, she reached down and grabbed his hands, yanking him up and dragging him after her.

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I didn't know then that that moment was the seal for our everlasting friendship.

As we watch the formation of their friendship through the flashbacks, we watch high school seniors, Edward and Bella, struggle to find their moment to confess their love for each other. You can see it in every gesture and even in words spoken. Edward is always very sweet with Bella, and Bella secretly uses her martial arts training to kick the ass of anyone who even thinks of hurting Edward, emotionally or physically. One such occasion, leads us to the first of two of my favorite "I love you" moments in fic. You wonder how you can pull off two, but The Romanticidal Edwardian does. I would love to quote them, but I won't spoil.

One of my favorite side stories of A World Without Sound is the fact that Bella, from the time she is five, has a HUGE crush on Carlisle before her affection is transferred to his son as they get older. This is a running joke throughout the story and adds some great comedic moments between the Swans and Cullens. The best of which is five year old Bella's proposal.

When Renee told her it was time to finally go, Bella marched right on past her to Carlisle with a determined air. All the adults watched her curiously, while Edward glared in a corner, already knowing how she was about to proceed.

Bella stopped in front of the doctor and took a deep breath. She knew how to do what needed to be done. She'd seen it on movies. Sliding down on one knee, she looked up at Carlisle.

"I don't have a ring, but I love you with all my heart. Will you marry me?"


In the end, The Romanticidal Edwardian has created a friendship that I think we all envy. One that you can pinpoint it's start at a time before you could tie your own shoes. The kind that survives awkward ages and stages. One that is fierce, loyal, and protective. One, that in the end, gives you the love of a lifetime.

3.75 out of 5 Flashbacks

This is one of those stories I first read a long time ago - hence why its one of our Old Skool/Classic picks. A World Without Sound is almost a spectrum fic, as it covers such a wide ground. Spanning the lives of Bella & Edward as they both lead lives shaped very much by his deafness. What I like about this fic best is the balance that the interspersed flashbacks to Bella & Edward as children provide to our understanding of Bella & Edward's relationship as adults.

Some of my favourite moments are their flashback moments. From young toots in the playground, to awkward teenagers in one of their bedrooms, we learn so much about them as individuals but much more about their bond. We learn how they support and encourage one another - & how they love one another fiercely, desperately and perhaps hopelessly. The first few chapters - & certainly for most of the flashbacks both Bella and Edward are unaware just how deep their bond goes, and how much they mean to the other. They don't understand what the intensity of their own feelings mean. Only knowing they would do ANYTHING for the other.

I love how The Romanticidal Edwardian shows the jealousy that starts to spark when Bella & Edward think that the other might have an admirer... And I love how they finally reveal their feelings to one another. But that is not the end of their story. They still have defining years together - years where they have to adjust to a life together and what Edward's disability means to them and their future...

One tiny peeve I have is when an author inserts an author's note or a comment in the middle of their story, this happens a few times in this story. Thankfully not every chapter, and I think it is something that The Romanticidal Edwardian doesn't do anymore. In her most recent WIP the fucking fabulous Untouchable - (which I BEG YOU TO READ AS IT IS ACHINGLY WONDERFUL AND JUST W.O.W!) There are no A/N's anywhere near the story itself. So please don't let that put you off.

I imagine this story and particularly the issues that come up at the end of the story are controversial or difficult issues for some people. They are difficult issues to convey in your writing without personal experience or perspective. But they are just a story device here, designed to make you think about the characters experiences and how difficult at times things have been for them both, and their fears for their futures.

I must say how cute these two characters are - especially in their flashbacks, The Romanticidal Edwardian does such a smashing job of conveying their innocence and the strength of their convictions and their crackling chemistry - that as children they just cannot understand. This pair of best friends are utterly compelling and convincing.

That chemistry thankfully stays with them, even as challenges are thrown their way. They have a deep physical connection and need for one another. The lemon near the end, is intense and interesting. Interesting because it made me think about all the sexual noises we take for granted. The slurps, slaps, tiny noises of wet, moist, hard and soft, breaths, whispers, pants, moans, grunts, cry's. How different would we all find sex without hearing those??

I really like the sweetness and love that resonates from this fic, and how The Romanticidal Edwardian has made me think about lots of issues around disability and love and life.

4 flashbacks out of 5 from me. xx



I have a weakness, okay I have a lot of weaknesses, but right now I'm talking about my love of hot deaf boys. It may sound odd to you, but I went to special juinor high school for a time (for my learning disability) and met a lot of extremely good looking boys that were deaf. First lesson I learned, don't call them hearing impaired. It makes them pissy. Second lesson, most of them were gay. Poor, cockblocked Jeanne was very sad. Third lesson they really were no different than any other boys that I knew. It didn't stop me from trying (and failing miserably) to learn ASL (American Sign Language), or from learning enough to passably understand it, at least for brief conversations.

A World Without Sound reminded me a lot of those days. What I would have given to be BFF with one of the hot boys...UNF! This story also reminded me of the intensity, strength and purity of friendship when we are young. Bella and Edward meet at a young age, and due to Bella's fearless acceptance of Edward, their friendship is cemented within a heartbeat. It's beautiful, and it made me fall in love with this story.

At the heart of this story is Edward and Bella, their intense and unshakable friendship, and how that transforms into love. I found myself overwhelmed by the depth of this story, and how the very different story telling style she choose to tell their backstory flowed so naturally. I adored how we got to see glimpes of how their love was just as obvious to their family and friends as it is to the readers, and how Edward's attraction was VERY apparent, despite Bella's blindness to it.

As the story progresses, and Edward and Bella become adults the story's centeral theme changes. I will admit that for me it wasn't the same story, and I chose to stop reading. This was a purely personal (and completely quirky) choice on my part. I just loved young Edward and Bella's story so much, that I wasn't ready for them to grow up, and deal with these issues. To me, it seemed like there were two distinct stories, and I'm just giant mushball that wasn't prepared for the angst and character choices The Romanticidal Edwardian made. What happened to me?

So, if you want to read about young love, and a very different, but still wholly canon, all human Bella and Edward, pick up A World Without Sound. Then ping me on gchat or on twitter and we can giggle like little girls over cute deaf boys. *snicker blush*

PS If you're curious about deaf life and cochlear implants, PBS has a great site for their documentry Sound and Fury. I encourage you to check it out. http://www.pbs.org/wnet/soundandfury/

3 out of 5 Flashbacks

I was really intrigued by the premise of A World Without Sound. I hadn't read a FF story featuring a deaf person before, and I was curious to see how The Romanticidal Edwardian handled the subject matter.

As the story unfolds, you learn that Edward has been deaf since birth. He and Bella have been best friends from the moment they met, when they were both five. They share an inexplicable bond to one another, almost like two magnets sticking together. Wherever you find one, you find the other. Bella is ferocious in her defense of Edward, determined that no one will tease or mock him without first answering to her. Yes, that's right--to her. You see, Bella has a black belt in karate, which she earned solely for the purpose of defending Edward. The Romanticidal Edwardian's incarnation of Bella is one kick-ass grrrrl. Not to mention she learned American Sign Language at an early age in order to communicate with Edward. This girl is major league committed to her deaf best friend.

What is perfectly clear to the reader, and to anyone else who knows Edward and Bella, is that these two are deeply in love with each other. They pine for one another silently, convinced that their love is unrequited. Obviously, nothing could be further from the truth. There is a scene where Edward is watching Bella practice karate, something he always does when they get home from school. As Bella describes it,

I was snapped back into reality when I heard Edward groan softly, and then saw his feet walking toward to door; probably to the kitchen or somewhere else. I sighed. He did this sometimes, and I figured it was just because it was boring to watch me stretch. Still, it made me sad when he left, especially knowing it was my fault. But I mean…c'mon, it's not like I made him come in here…but the thought still didn't quite erase the guilt.

Bella is so clueless that Edward is in love with her, and it is adorable. The UST between them is so strong, you can literally feel it on your monitor!

What I loved the most about this Edward and Bella was their deep, strong, abiding friendship. While they both love each other, their friendship is paramount, and it hinders their revealing to one another their true feelings. They do everything together, even sleep together (platonically, of course). In a lovely twist on canon, The Romanticidal Edwardian has Bella waking up before Edward so that she can watch him sleep. She captures a beautiful moment in that image.

I refuse to spoil the surprise of the way in which their love is finally revealed; suffice it to say, Edward's confession has to be in the top ten Most Rewarding ILYs in FF. It is surprising, beautiful, touching, and poignant. It literally made my heart clench.
As the story progresses, and Edward and Bella become adults, there share some angsty times together. As most PPSS followers may know, I am a nurse. As such, I try to give authors a little creative leeway when it comes to writing medical scenarios, because most writers do not have in depth knowledge about the medical field; I can appreciate that. The Romanticidal Edwardian herself issues a caveat in her A/N about being gentle with her lack of medical knowledge. That being said, however, I feel that I need to add a little disclaimer of sorts. The medical issues that Edward faces appear to be written with little research to back them up. I understand that the way it unfolds is critical to her story line, and give her that creative license; I simply need to state that the way it unfolds is medically inaccurate.

In addition, the way she deals with Edward's deafness is quite different from my real life experiences with deaf individuals. Every one I've ever met has been fiercely independent about being deaf, and they tend not to view it as a disability. I liken it to the Mutants versus humans in X-Men: The Last Stand. A vaccine was developed to "cure" Mutants, making them human. Most Mutants contended that there was nothing to cure, just as most deaf people believe they do not have a disability. Again, this is The Romanticidal Edwardian's story, and she has the liberty to write it from any perspective she chooses. I was merely a little surprised that she chose to approach the story from this angle.

Overall, The Romanticidal Edwardian concocted an Edward who is lovely and sensitive, who pines for his best friend, and completely captures my heart. I love him, feel for him, and just want to wrap him up in a warm, motherly hug. She also succeeds in crafting a strong, independent, kick-ass Bella, a momma lion determined to protect her mate at all costs. Their absolute need for one another to be whole is beautiful and touching. Their relationship is the heart and soul of the story, and that's really all that matters, at the end of the day.

3 out of 5 Flashbacks

I have a soft spot for sensitive Edwards, never men in general, just Edward. I don't seek these types of stories out because they end up stomping on my wussperv heart in only a few amount of chapters.

This pretty much did it to :)

So, why do I have such a hankering to read sensitive, slightly awkward Edwards? Because it usually (hopefully) leads to a kick ass Bella. I'm tired of doormat female characters that are on the opposite end of spectrum when it comes to life experiences yadda, yadda. So for this Bella to be strong, confident, fiercely protective and asskicky (literally) I loved it from chapter 1.

The flashbacks themselves are what I think endears me so much to the story. Seeing how the little Bella first becomes friends with Edward in spite of his hearing loss. Each walk down memory lane builds such a beautiful love story that you can't help but swoon for the two of them.

The first 'I love you', Christ, the second one too was wonderful, saying her name! Jesus. The little kids playing with Carlisle (unf) with the Princess, the Prince and the big, bad dragon. My God, your heart aches with fear and hope that everything will be okay between them.

One of my favorite parts has to be when they're teens and finally figuring out that the other is attracted to them. For years they operated under the delusion that their feelings were all one-sided. Silly kids. In her 'karate' room while she's working out and poor teenage Edward has to watch her stretch and bend in front of him. Of course he gets so hard he can hammer a nail but she thinks he's bored. I don't know why but that scene cracks me up.

It's a sweet story, and it's around a long time. So long, that I ended up reading it again for this!

3/5 Flashbacks

My heart does the little sappy-clench when I read stories like this. Where there is a friendship between two people and it grows into something more. And I’m not talking they drunkenly sleep together and then decide ‘let’s try being a couple since the sex was good’ kind of thing. Yes, I’ve read stuff like that. And that shit never works out… at least not realistically. Too messy. Anyhoodles, maybe I’m more attached to the friendship to love stories because of personal experience, I don’t know; I just know I have a soft spot for them. They are swoon-worthy.

And while my heart does the sappy-clench, it also does the sad-clench. Like in chapter six when Edward breaks down and Bella comforts him:

My heart broke, and wrenched even harder this time, as I looked down at his sunken form. I dropped to my knees, and wrapped my arms around him, as he sobbed his frustrations out on my shoulder. I leaned on his shoulder as well, letting a few tears slip silently down my face. His pain was my pain, and it hurt so much right now.

But it was my turn to be strong. How often had he held me while I cried? Almost every time. So, for once, I comforted him as his tears fell, something I hadn't seen in many many years. I'd clean up his busted hand later. I knew right now he just needed someone who cared.

His arms wrapped around my waist and held me tightly against him as his sobs slowly faded, and he fell asleep against me.

Whoa! Of course I must mention the cheerleader in me that screamed when Bella stood up for herself and Edward. Stories with a strong Bella, a Bella with a backbone keep me interested and I’m happy that The Romanticidal Edwardian wrote this kind of Bella.

Guh! When you get to the ‘I love you’ moment… I have no words. Just smiles and swoons.

Stories that really explore the relationship of friendship to one of love will always be my favorite. I guess it’s because they are the ones that most people can imagine themselves in. I mean seriously, when will anyone really fall in love with a vampire and live forever with them? This? Now this is real; this is something that can and does happen and when it does, it’s one in a million.

3 out 5 Flashbacks

A Rite of Passage & The Way Back by Caracol

This week's Perv Pack Recommendation is...

Title: A Rite of Passage / The Way Back
Author: caracol
Chapters: ARoP 16, TWB 21
Words: ARoP 33,685 TWB 77,028
Reviews: ARoP 837 TWB 1736
Summary: A Rite of Passage: AU All Human. Bella and Edward are best friends. A story of self discovery and the loss of innocence. This story is about how two people deal with sex, love, trust, friendship all while growing up. Very OOC.
The Way Back: Sequel to "A rite of passage". All human. Very OOC. A story about becoming adult, dealing with your past and your future.

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Guest Reviewer - Isabel0329 -

I have two words to describe A Rite of Passage and The Way Back: absolute and brilliance. I read these two companion stories back summer of 2008, making them one of my first forays into the land of Twilight fanfiction, especially the all-human genre. And if I was being perfectly honest, they spoiled me for all future fic. My personal favorite style of humor is quirky, well-written, well-timed, somewhat sarcastic humor and the author caracol gave me just that. The dialogue in these stories is just so perfect and completely on that I have trouble describing exactly how perfect and on it is. The story line, writing and characters bring me back to one of my favorite movies ever Juno, which is possibly why I picture a very witty Ellen Page playing bella here. Matter of fact, I believe the author at one point indicated this actor was who she imagined Bella as sin these two stories.

There are so many touching, poignant moments in these two stories I couldn't begin to pick them all out and tell you why I love them. I believe one of my favorite ones though is in Rite of Passage after Bella's schoolmates figure out she's pregant, she is being ridiculed while Edward is being left alone. Because it's always the girl's fault and never the boy's .... riiiiiiight. Regardless, Edward busts out a beater t-shirt in the hallway at school with "I'm pregnant too!" scrawled across it to deflect attention from Bella. Forgive me if the exact wording is off, it's been awhile. The way caracol has written these characters she makes you believe Edward would do something like that and even though you don't expect it, you love him all that much more for it.

I'll be straight with you though, The Way Back is not for the angst-phobic reader. There is a lot of heartache and as the name implies, it takes awhile for the characters to learn from their past mistakes. So much had been done wrong that it isn't an overnight, snap of the fingers fix. But at the same time, that's what makes it real. Real life isn't easy and repairing horribly damaged friendships and relationships is an arduous process. That is precisely what makes these two stories so damn good.

I could very easily see this entire story line as a screenplay and subsequent movie which makes my little visual heart flutter with envy. I wish I had the kind of talent caracol has for writing. The ability to make the reader run the gammet of emotions, but ultimately end up right where she intended to take you. Anybody looking for a more well-written and thought provoking story would be hardpressed to find it than with A Rite of Passage and The Way Back. Since reading these almost a year ago, I have been constantly trying to push these upon people because they simply could not be better. Read, enjoy, possibly prepare yourself for hardcore angst on the way, but you won't be disappointed in the slightest.

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Bri- I read ARoP way back when I first entered the fandom and I loved it. It was short and an easy read and it had one of my all time favorite plotlines - the bff's turned into lovers. But, caracol manages to do this differently, throwing in twists and turns in the story that you might not see coming. Above all else, the friendship/love between B/E shines through the chapters and gives you something to ground yourself. That particular thing was what I remembered from my first read-thru. I knew I needed a refresher, so read this in a couple of hours while driving home the other day and enjoyed it all over again. Everything that I remembered was still there - the love, the connection, the humor and the friendship. However, this time through the errors in the story were very distracting and had me wishing she would grab a beta and polish that up - it would definitely rank up a few more notches if she did. If that shit doesn't bother you and you just like a good story, this one's for you. I giveARoP 3/5.

TWB was - quite honestly - as painful as I remember. It is NOT an easy, lighthearted read. And, in fact, if it wasn't for the review this week, there is no way mypussified heart would have taken another beating from it. It is NOT for the Wusspervs . True, I am one of the three founding members, and I managed to get through it, but that's not to say it wasn't painful (break ups? time apart sex talks? *shudders*). But, it needed to happen. It was definitely a way forcaracol to make the characters grow from your "typical" HS sweethearts story, but what was more likely to happen as the two people grew and matured. However, my one qualm withARoP stands for this one, too. Call me a grammar/writing/word snob, but errors are like nails on a chalkboard for me and they definitely caught me up in this story. Because of that, I'm rating this one at 3/5 as well.

Emily- ARoP and TWB were a couple of the first fics I read and I have to say that I was hooked from the very beginning. It was a pleasure to re-read them again for this weeks rec and they were just as good the second time around. I unlike mywussperv friends like angst as long as it is well written and has a purpose in the story and not just angst for angst sake. And whoa doesCaracol deliver the angst. I felt myself getting teary as I read *spoiler alert* about Bella's pregnancy and her miscarriage. When Esme talked to Bella about her own loss and the emotions behind it I found myself nodding my head in agreement. I too have walked the road and my heart broke for Bella, Esme, myself and the countless women that have been through it.

TWB also felt real and genuine about how a relationship can die without the two people even realizing it is happening and you wake up one day and say "WTF"? The journey these two take to find each other as adults, as partners and lovers is messy and angsty and beautiful. Just how real relationships ebb and flow and I was really rooting for them to make it. The smut is minimal but is done well and not over the top, and it fits in perfectly with that story.

So grab some tissues when you read these two stories but settle in for a lovely read. 4/5


Emmy- I was lucky enough to venture into the angsty waters of AROP/TWB once it was complete - thank fuck! I am telling you this for nowt! ~There is no way that this WussPerv would have ever made it out of these as WIP alive. Never in a month of Sundays! But - thankfully I devoured these once Caracol had completed them. If I am very honest with you - it still affected this softie. But therein lies it strength. Its blood emotive - it leeches an emotional response from you... like salt on an aubergine - I do not believe there is a heart or soul dark/hard enough to not feel for these characters, to not respond to them.

To me a good author makes the reader feel what they intend for them to feel, be it laughter, desire, fear, joy, paranoia, despair or anger. If I feel nothing or weakly about characters or their plight then I know the author has not succeeded. I am telling you here & now that Caracol is a brilliant author - as she nails you every chapter, fuck every line!, to feel what she sets out for you to feel.... No sentence is wasted. No thought or expression from the characters a throw-away. On re-reading to refresh for this review I was sucked back into it rapidly - & I am not ashamed to admit - the angst affected me quite intently and physiologically all over again. You go on this journey with Bella & Edward. They don't run away from you - even when you don't understand the what, why, how they inflict upon one another or themselves you feel it and experience it and you stay right there with them. Its very impressive and takes a true writer to achieve. LikeBri I would start a wee bit sometimes with the grammar - but the magic of the writing is alive and flaming..

Talking of flaming, lets talk flaming passion.... This is not graphic, nasty smut - this is real loving. Its often messy (emotionally), ill-advised, angry or heartfelt. Its always genuine. It always stays true to the characters and like a good lemon should it illustrates through intense pleasure and pain where the characters are and where they are headed... It brings to life their love and hurt and makes it all have ten times the impact....

A dear author friend of mine told me years ago that the best story ending is not complete and tied up prettily with satiny soft ribbon, it is not a brick wall. A proper and fitting end for a story leaves the reader able to dream and think ahead with just the scaffold provided by the author. The author sets them up where she wants them but the reader - they take them where they want them to go. The last chapter ofTWB is the perfect non-brick wall ending. This is a brilliant, brilliant series. Beautifully conceived and most definitely stirring. 4.5 out of 5 knickers from me.

Hope-Fair warning these stories are angsty, but in a good way. Not in a drag it all out, create drama for the sake of drama way. It's angsty in the way that it needs to be. There needs to be the angst for the characters to grow and learn and fall apart and come back together stronger than before. It's angsty in a way that makes sense and that the reader can appreciate, it's real. Well, shit I made these stories sound like something straight off of Lifetime. I assure you they're not. The angst is balanced out, very well I might add, with humor and sarcasm and wit. Theses stories are serious, but the humor and personalities of the characters keep it from weighing it down. Bella and Edward are snarky, sarcastic and always ready to sling barbs are each other. It's their verbal foreplay of sorts. It's not malicious or mean the things they say to each other, but it;s said with love and affection. They have an odd relationship at best, but one i can relate too as well. It's the interaction between the two that really drew me in. When I first readARoP I did it in one sitting and then quickly moved on to TWB, because I simply could not wait to see the further adventures of this Edward and Bella.

And I was not disappointed with TWB. **Spoilers Ahead** It's an more grown-up and having their shit together a bit more, even if they are not together at the beginning of the story. It truly is the way back for them. The way back to each other, to where they belong, to where they are whole. Now, their separation was not just to create drama andheartfail , it was needed. The love was always there between Edward and Bella, that wasn't the problem. They needed to be apart from one another so they could grow and learn and experience what life was like without each other. That is what makes this storyabso-fucking-lutely killer and a must read in the TwiFicdom.

Now lets talk smut. The smut isn't plentiful but what smut there is, is stellar and amazing. It's not graphic by any means, but the experience is profound for the parties involved and for the reader as well. It's about the emotion and pleasure and intimacy they are feeling in that moment. My favorite fromARoP is in the chair sex after they both realize and admit to the experiment changing. It's almost primal and you really feel Bella's overwhelming need to just be and connect with Edward in that way, no barriers, no hiding, no complications, just the two of them together. My favorite fromTWB is their second first time. They banter and egg each other on, but it's also tender and sweet and fucking hot as they lose themselves in each other again. The smut gets a 4/5 and the stories get 5/5 from moi!


Kasey- Funny enough, I had passed on ARoP time and time again because the summary didn't draw me in. But being that my girl Izzy thought it good - no, GREAT - was enough to get my arse reading it. And WHOA, WHOA, WHOA. Did I say, "WHOA" enough? Wow. So good. No - so great. I almost wanted to slap myself for not having read it sooner.

Like Izzy mentioned, two words really describe this story for me: touching and poignant. I mean, sure, lemons are yummy, but when you can have a piece of writing move you (and not just your nether regions), you have to really pay attention. And this, dearPervlings is one that demands attention. It's that good. And the angst - oh the angst. Yeah. it's not for you WussPERVS , that's for sure. But let me tell you, that's where the brilliance lies. It's through those heartaches in which we find triumphs and joy, andcaracol interweaves this flawlessly into her storyline. Her storytelling is lovely and evocative and thought-provoking.

In short, I'm in love with ARoP and TWB. Goes right up there with my love for adorablecullens' BEL (which is saying A LOT because BEL is my all-time fave piece of fanfiction).

So, what does this Perv rate AROP? A big ole 5 out of 5 panties for wonderful storytelling, tear-jerking, smutty goodness. And I don't hand out 5s like Girl Scout cookies,ya'll. This one earns it, big time. So GO, RUN, READ!

Nina- As Kasey said, ARoP and TWB are not for the faint of heart but they are required reading nonetheless, so I suggest a bottle of Volpolicello to ease the angst. I don't like to read angsty stories unless I know there is a HEA, yes, I am a pussy and I am okay with that. So I waited to read this until both parts were complete and Izzy said it was safe for me to read it. I reiterate myWussPerv status proudly.

The beauty of Caracol's writing is that it's simple, clean and eloquent. She manages to express heartwrenching details with such poignant and easy phrases that your heart melts with her words. Not your typical friends turned to lovers equal guaranteed happily ever after. No, they've got realistic ups and downs, pain,heartfail, remorse, other lovers in between etc. It's a magnificent and truly possible tale of first love gone horribly wrong.

Thankfully, Caracol chose to write The Way Back which is just as it sounds. The angst riddled journey back to where they belong, going over their mistakes, their failures but more importantly their love for each other.

Neither story is profoundly smutty, but, what is there is so good and profoundly well done. My thoughts on why it's such a good example of smut is that they grow and the relationship changes and it's written as such. Their encounters as highschoolers is completely different than their adult relationship and that is a true testament to how good Caracol's writing style really is. She captures both eras perfectly and realistically.

For both stories I give them 4/5. 10/5 for the angst that made my heart hurt but I still read it and love these two fics.

"When Darkness Turns to Light" by Janna Banana

This is something new and exciting from the PPSS, once a month or so we'll be featuring an 'Old School' or 'Classic' story that was published before Breaking Dawn.

Our very first one is "When Darkness Turns to Light" I'm telling you all now (well those of you who aren't familiar with it. This isn't a Bella/Edward story, Jasper is her love interest in it. Now before the staunch E/B enthusiasts run for the hills I implore you to hear me out for just a second. I can tell you this coming from someone who is normally a hardcore E/B only fan in the stories I read that this actually convinced me to at least consider the possiblity of a non E/B HEA.

Give it a chance I know you'll be glad you did.

*~*
Our Guest Reviewer for this week is Tracey aka RedChevy!

This week's Perv Pack Recommendation is...

Title: "When Darkness Turns to Light "
Author: Janna Banana
Chapters: 52 (Complete)
Words: 172,955
Reviews: 2310
Summary: 4 years after Edward left Bella in the forest; Bella is finally moving forward, but it is someone from her past that helps her truly heal and obtain the future she was always meant to have. Bella and Jasper Fanfic.

Our Guest Reviewer RedChevy- When Darkness Turns to Light by Janna Banana is a Jasper/Bella story that even the hardcore Edward/Bella shippers could get on board with. Janna weaves a believable and well thought out story that leaves both Bella and Jasper as free agents when they meet up again by chance, several years after Edward and the Cullens leave Bella in New Moon.
The UST is set at a slow burn for several chapters while the reader is drawn into a story of friendship and discovery as Jasper and Bella slowly figure out their feelings for one another. However, when that tension gets resolved…hold onto your panties ladies! Every time Jasper purrs, I need a panty change and just imagine for a moment, having sex with someone who can let you feel what they feel? Yup, more laundry….

Of course, they can’t live happily ever after right away and just as things are looking perfect for our couple, Janna throws in a plot twist that will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very last of the 51 chapters.

In conclusion, this story made me fall head over heels in love with Jasper and embrace the idea of the Jasper/Bella ship. No matter how staunchly you believe in Edward/Bella, I encourage you to give this one a try…it may just change your mind.

Bri- <---is a diehard Bella/Edward fanatic, especially with vamp fics. I tried with all my might to read this, but even the summary had my stomach in knots (no, seriously, fer real). Even so, while *I* couldn't read it, I've heard absolutely nothing but rave reviews for this story. If you're into Bella/Jasper pairing or just want something new, then check it out. My lovely fellow pervs can give you the low down on their thoughts and reviews. Sorry I couldn't be of more service (<--hehe), but it's just not my bag, baby.

Emily- WDTTL was my first Bella and Jasper story. I was reluctant at first but once I started reading I got swept away in their story and quickly fell in love with them and Janna Banana's writing. I spent the better part of a weekend absorbed in the first 30 chapters or so as that was how long the story was when I started it. I ignored my family, my chores and just about everything so I could just read.

When I got the email that it updated I would run and read, dropping everything else. Bella and Jasper have an amazing love and I like that Jake and the pack are involved but not in the traditional way. Reading about how Jasper loves Bella makes me think that *gasp* he might be a better match for Bella than Edward!

I don't want to give away too much but this story has the best change scene that I have EVER read and I was blown away and have gone back to read it several times. I enjoy the switching POV's and I really enjoy long stories and WDTTL is novel length. Beautiful story and with plans to write a sequel I am thrilled to read more about Bella and Jasper. 5 very happily soaked panties out of 5.

Emmy - I feel oh so very pitiful. This is one of the most recc'd fictions within the pack... Yet, as much as I could see the quality & intensity of the writing, I could not move past my Edward love, to read a Bella/Jasper fiction. What I did read was beautifully written - please do try it & see if you are tougher than Emmy. & take Nina's advice re the last chapter! <3>

Beks- Dang that was long as hell, but GOOOOD. I'm not a huge fan of the Bella/Jasper coupling, but this story is done so well. The writing is excellent and the sexin is too. Stories like this make me wonder why dear Janna isn't writing for cash. Great Job! 4outta5

Hope- I was a Jasper fan before reading this. But this is the story that truly cemented my love for all things Jasper. People kept telling me I needed to read it, but I was hesitant because I couldn't really see a plausible, realistic way for Jasper and Bella to be together. I am at the heart of it all an Edward & Bella girl. But Janna's wonderfully delicious story truly converted me to being a lover of non-canon pairings.

This Jasper and this Bella are amazingly deep and rich and fully realized characters. This story isn't just some experiment to see if this pairing could work. It does work, but because Janna stays true to the characters of the book while putting her own spin on the story. Something that in my experience is hard to do and Janna does it flawlessly. Jasper and Bella meet at college, become friends bonding over a shared past.

They grow closer and closer to one another. UST grows and grows, without the help of Jasper's gift until finally you feel like you are choking on it, in a really good way. Damn, this story is intense. Srsly intense, but not in a gut churning way. In a dripping panty kind of way. The smut is so good, the slow build to it has you panting like Bella in anticipation of what is going to happen. Don't get me wrong this story is heavy, but there are moments of lightness and humor that break it up and balance it out. Truly this is a masterpiece and really required reading I think for any twific fan. 5 sopping wet panties out of 5.

Kasey - Oh my, oh my, oh my! This fic is EPIC, dear Pervings! I don't wanna prattle on and on about it, but suffice to say that Janna's When Darkness Turns To Light is my first love when it comes to Jasper/Bella pairings. Not only was it the 1st fic that turned me on to this coupling, but it was the 1st to make me fall madly and head-over-heels in love with Jasper Whitlock. Beautifully written.

Yes, at times, angsty, but overall absolutely romantic. Be prepared for some heartfail, though, but don't pass on it because Edward is not with Bella here. It is 100% worth the read and I guarantee that you too will fall in love. 5 out of 5 sopping wet panties from lil' ol' me.

Oh and FYI: If you love Paranormal Romance (smutbooks) like I do, see Janna on Twilighted. She's the authority on good reads and has pointed me towards some yumm-o stuff (many of which I've rec'ed over here).

Kathy- Janna Banana has done such a great job of weaving details into this story, I almost have a hard time reviewing.. I will do my best not to give too much away. Chapter 6 brings heart twinges at details revealed about why Jasper is back in touch with Bella and as Bella reveals tidbits of information to Jasper as well. I admit, I was crying by the end of chapter 7, but anyone that knows me also knows I cry easily and often.

Okay, just keep the box of Kleenex nearby. If you're at all like me and the idea of Edward never coming back for Bella makes you ache a little, you'll need the tissues several more times. Perhaps a stiff drink. Jake is here, having imprinted on someone, but still clearly cares deeply for Bella. There are some very touching moments sprinkled all throughout between Jasper and Bella, beginning with their friendship and building to more.

There are some other twists and complications that I'm not going to touch on because it would give too much away, but each is different and interesting. Jasper and Bella's kiss in chapter 25 is.. breath taking. Chapter 26 is bittersweet and there are a few tasty lemons sprinkled around. I found chapters 38-41 to be especially difficult (yeah, I cried again), when Jasper goes back to Alice for help. Chapters 49 and 50 are difficult to swallow if you're a die hard Edward fan. Chapter 51 is beautiful.

Miya- This is hands down my favorite fanfic of all fucking time. When my readers tell me "I love your Jasper!"- I send them here. This story is the reason I love Jasper and Bella together. I started this right after their first night at his home, I think, having stayed up the entire night to read it. I fed babies while reading, I refused to put my laptop away until I was caught up. There is smut, not a lot, but enough that when I think of hot, steamy, romantic lemons- my mind goes here.Now, I know many of you are saying "Jasper and Bella? What about Edward?" But she doesn't leave Edward for him. In this story, Edward didn't come back. The pack has been protecting Bella for years from Victoria.

Eventually, when they feel the threat is gone, Bella is allowed off the Res to go to college. Her first day of classes, she feels eyes on her and spots Jasper, and bolts. She's not ready to deal with that aspect of her past. He however, wants the chance to apologize, and thanks to some coffee and following her scent to her apartment, Jasper is given his opportunity.They are both hurting over their failed attempts at love and through a strong foundation in friendship, their mutual desire for more grows. Bella and Jasper help one another heal their broken hearts and find themselves feeling more. He's determined not to interfere with her life, yet in what has got to be the hottest UST chapter of all time, he finally gets Bella to admit she wants him.

The most humorous scene is in his car as she finds out they can have sex and he discovers that she and Edward had never even properly kissed. Him buying condoms at the gas station store makes me giggle time and time again. How the 150+ year old Southern gentleman vampire was embarrassed that the cashier would know what he was about to do... it still makes me chuckle to just think about it.I know that the author is a busy mom and I'm trying to be patient for the sequel. I still look at least three times a week at her profile, just in case I missed the alert. Yes, I'm that addicted to this and the cruel part of me can't wait for the moment Edward goes into heartfail when he finds out about Bella and Jasper. So please, even if you can't imagine reading a non ExB story, give this one a chance.

Go through their weekend away for her birthday and then decide from there if you want to commit more time to the story or not. I'm pretty sure you will.

Nina- The Pervs call me 'tragically canon', normally I laugh it off because I really am a pathetic hopeless romantic (that curses a lot and enjoys all sorts of fornication but I digress) Hope and Steph made me read this. They insisted that even though I am pathetic that I would still love it. I hate nothing more than being wrong. Seriously. I fucking hate it. I tried so hard to dislike Jasper in this, to just give me a reason to think he was a dick but nooooo Janna had to go and write him in a way that had me pulling for them.

Damnit. (recurring word throughout this review, deal with it)

Anyhoo. I am NOT a fan of Eddie gets all emo and doesn't come back stories, but this one, damnit, this one was/is different. Damnit. I think the reason (imo) that I loved WDTTL so much was because Janna didn't constantly beat it into you that Edward chose not to return, it was stated and that was it. Plus, Jasper and Alice had a falling out too that MADE SENSE. It wasn't just a fluffy, bullshit excuse. Everything has merit and is incredibly detailed in explanation but again it's not done in a way that makes you hate any character. That is my biggest peeve with stories that one person gets to be the uber douche throughout it to make it easier to accept the non-canon pairing.

Okay, stepping down from the condom-box (really would I ever stand on a soapbox? pssh no.) Anyhoodle, the UST is delicious, staggering and fucking tasty. I love me some UST. Besides UST, I love me some hot loving and let's face it Jasper and his 'gift' has to make for some yummy loving. Even if he isn't using his abilities, the boy has some abilities.

The love scenes are not overly graphic but still are so beyond hot and captivating. And, I'm in agreement with Miya. Jasper buying condoms is hilarious. Fucking priceless.

****THIS IS IMPORTANT. Even if you can't see yourself reading, fawning over and enjoying the fuck out of this story because it's not E/B. I implore you to read the final chapter. Imagine it's Edward I don't care just read it. It's exceptional. For the purposes of this review I re-read it and felt the same way all over again. Give it a chance. The days of non-canon pairings are upon us and you may as well start out with one of the best ones out there. 5/5 from me and I'm still fucking tragically canon :)

Stephie- I remember when I first started visiting the boards on Twilighted. Everywhere I looked I saw WDTTL. WTF is WDTTL? Luckily, someone else had the courage to ask since I was still a newb and scared to ask. Once I realized WDTTL stood for When Darkness Turns to Light, I went to ff.net to see what it was all about. Bella and Jasper? Nu uh. I eventually caved though, after so many people went on and on about how great it was. So I read...and I read...and I read. And I found myself falling in love with Jasper for the first time in fic history. I had never even THOUGHT to read non canon.

Because apparently I, like Nina, am tragically canon (except for some slash and threesome action...lol!). Where Janna excelled in this fic was Jasper and Bella's slow building relationship. It wasn't rushed. Both characters denied or pushed aside any possible idea of feelings until it was no longer possible. I will admit that I was willing something to happen between the two of them bc the UST was getting to me. The hardest part of this fic, for me, was knowing Edward was still in love with Bella...and always would be in true vampire fashion. Call it the canon lover in me, but an Edward that loves Bella should be with her. That being said, I still loved Jasper. His character was developed well and seemed so real. And lets not forget the last chapter. It really is great. And like Nina said, if you can't stomach non canon, at least read it and imagine Edward in Jasper's place. 4/5 panties.

Steph- I read a lot of fanfic. A LOT. One way I had of finding good stories was to look in the favorites of the authors I read and enjoyed. I had come across this story several times and every time I read the summary, I just couldn't bring myself to read it. The idea of Jasper with Bella just didn't sit well with me. But then there was a discussion about Jasper/Bella fics on, I believe it was on Hope's TA thread.

Quite a few people had read it and said that it was absolutely fabulous and just had to be read. I ended up giving in and I was sucked in from the first chapter. I couldn't believe I had waited so long to read it as it was truly an amazing story. I never thought that I would root for Bella with anyone else, but as these two developed their friendship and you could see them starting to maybe fall just a bit, I wanted it desperately. I wanted them to have love again, with each other. I was not disappointed.

This story is so beautifully written, Janna just pulls you in to their world and makes you fall in love along with them. This story is solely responsible for my love of the Bella/Jasper "ship". I actively sought out others after this, only to be disappointed as there were very few other good ones at that time. (There are more now.) It was agonizing waiting for updates, though lucky you, if you haven't read it, it's now complete. I've also heard we're supposed to get a sequel at some point and I absolutely can't wait for that.

This story, this is what a love story is all about. The love scenes? Holy hot, batman. More than once this story sent me running to my room for private time. Now, if you haven't read it, what are you waiting for? Go. Do it. 5 out 5 hopelessly in love panties from me.

Tallulah- Like Steph (my conjoined at the brain twin from whom I was separated at birth...), I heard about When Darkness Turns To Light on the Twighlighted threads (and apparently Stephie, too!!). As a newbie, I was forever asking what different acronyms meant. I remember very plainly seeing 'WDTTL' pop up and the literal gushing that followed when I inquired about it.

Everyone - and I mean EVERYONE - said, "Run. Do not walk. Do not pass Go or collect $200."

Okay, they didn't say that, but it was an overwhelming mob that encouraged me to read this story. Oh, I didn't want to like it... It was early in my fanfic exploration and I was still only reading canon pairs. Jasper & Bella? Edward never came back? NO! Ohhh, baby...did Janna Banana ever change my mind. She is personally responsible for me not only falling in love with Jasper as a leading man, but also for giving me the courage to step outside my box (*snort*) and begin to try other couplings as well. JB is also to be blamed for the random loathing of two non-canon humans - Creepy Steve (Grrrr....) and Hunky Logan.

After I fell soundly head-over-heels with her Jasper, the thought of some mere human simply would not do. These characters were well-written and gave a nice, full reality to Bella's human life after Forks. I wholeheartedly agree that this story is one of the best fics out there and should be required reading. If you can get past your Edward/Bella thing, I encourage you to READ THIS STORY.

You absolutely will have no regrets. WDTTL is a story that sets the bar for others. Be prepared to have a new appreciation for Jasper - you will never read him the same way again. Ever. I don't give 5 out 5 very often, but never has a story deserved all my undies more. It's just that good. Love to Janna for such an amazing tale... *smooch*

~*~

In addition to our Round Table Review above, we've also asked the author to share with us a bit about herself.

You want to know about me? Well, I'm a 36 year old mother of three (5, 2 and 7 weeks). I'm a law clerk for an international trade law lawyer and I run his practice from my house as he is based out of China and the Ukraine (strange combo, yes) and we've got the whole virtual office thing going on. I first came across the Twilight series in September 07 on my way to Las Vegas (a trip that I USED to make yearly but with each babe, the trips become increasingly more far apart). I was in the book store in the airport and literally bought the book because I forgot to bring mine and the cover grabbed my attention.

So, I quickly read the back and said, I'll give er a go. My life has not been the same since. I read the entire book on the flight to Vegas, searched Vegas for a book store (seriously, not a single book store on the main strip, not a one!) to grab New Moon and read it around the pool while racking up a serious bar bill (drinks around the pool are not free as they are everywhere else. Ummm, perhaps I should have sat at a slot machine and read while drinking. Multi-task?). I then grabbed Eclipse at the airport on the way home. Well, Twilight made such an impression on me that I started to read the fanfics that I found online all the while realizing that (don't freak out Edward lovers) that Edward was just too condescending for my taste and that the hotness that is Jasper deserved to be explored. So, one night, I had a dream of my version of Jasper (not the Edward Scissorhand version from the movie) kissing Bella and my story was born. I've never written a word in my life (story wise, obviously I can write people) so I started my story, found a writer on fanfic whose stories I loved (Stupid Shiny Volvo Driver - who writes the BEST Edward POV that I have ever read - check out her story, Dark Dance of Temptation) and asked her to Beta and I was off.

Looking back I can see the progress of my writing improving over the course of my story but going back and rewriting is on my neverending "things to do" list which really should be called the "things that will never get done" list. So, with the hot males of Twilight came the whole paranormal romance (smut) world that I never knew existed (and had been sadly missing out on). Now I am obsessed with all things alpha male, be it, vamps, weres, anything supernatural or really anything over "six and a half feet" as that seems to be the prerequisite to make it into one of these books.

I've now ventured into the Highlander region and have found a number of HHH's (hot, hunky highlander) that are worth recommending. My profile on the fanfic site has my recommended reading list which is ever growing. Well, that's it for me. Hope you enjoy my story and I love to hear feedback, good or bad!