Perv Pack Pick: She Gives Me Religion by Liz Lemon Bennett

The Perv Pack Pick is....



Title: She Gives Me Religion
Author: Liz_Lemon_Bennett
Chapters: 7
Words: 68,423
Reviews: 310
Summary: Hot-headed seminary student, Edward Masen meets just widowed bride Bella Swan. EPOV: AU/AH Entry for the 2010 Cherry Exchange/First Time Author Award>

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Chele - This is amazing. What happens when you combine tragedy, faith, sex, agony, humor, friendship and love? You get , a story which stimulates your mind, makes your heart swell, and your pants explode.

I fell madly in love with Edward within a few short paragraphs. He is an exercise in complexity; quirky, funny, startlingly serious. One glimpse of him mid-traffic tells us so much.

I focus through prayer, "Lord, help me to be your instrument on this important day. Guide me to assist Carlisle as we do your work in your name. Help me to tame my temper—SHIT!" A car passes too closely and splashes water over my jeans. "Watch it asshole!" I yell at the distancing car. Fortunately my Oxford shirt stays dry. I need to look half-decent for today. "Sorry, God—where was I? Oh yeah, help me to tame my temper…"

The balance of religion and one’s internal struggle with faith in the face of trauma is just, beyond good here. It's real and tangible. I've read other fic where similar themes were dealt with, but it all felt highbrow, and detached. This is right in you, gripping your heart, holding you up.

Because this was initially a Cherry Exchange contest entry, I don’t think it’s giving too much away when I say there is smut in the first chapter. Oh, yes pervs. There is good, good, lovely smut. As tragedy is revealed early, I thought - how’s Liz_Lemon_Bennett going to pull that off? Needless to say, she does. She made a believer out of me. It is lovely and good, and smoking hot, and it doesn’t end there. Throughout the story’s progression, she explores Edward and Bella as people whose sexuality has been awakened at a time and circumstance which could easily be seen as wrong, but is, in fact, perfectly right.

The characterizations top notch, each appearance and interaction moves the story forward. Even the tertiary players have have lush, vivid characterizations.

Sue Clearwater is a woman made of steel, covered in thick layers of soft fleece; it is easy to be weak in her presence. One gets the sense that she would find a way to float to the top of the most turbulent
ocean.

Just beautiful.

I will warn you, this fic is addictive. There is a simplicity and a beauty that takes you over. The ebb and flow of intensity is so smooth, you won’t want to stop reading until you run out of chapters. Then you’ll shake your fists in the air and scream “Mooooooore!!!!!”

Emmy - I love this fic, and not just because it has cum-play in it, (one of my fave things) (seriously - Jeanne and Chele were telling me I had to read this fic for it, see how supportive and helpful my perv’s are?). The cherry popping scene from which this fic was born is very well done. Edward’s done his homework, even not knowing what/when it would be for. For Bella and Edward this love scene is about more than losing it - its about finding something you didn’t even realise you needed.

I think of the things I love best about this story is the subtle humour in it. There are odd lines that are almost throwaway, these are hilarious, and just tickle me the right way! They are subtle and very clever and are one of the many things that lift this fic.

This Edward? So ruddy cute. Seriously he is adorable - hesitant, unsure, eager, well-intentioned, hopelessly hooked on Bella. But he is also sexy. He’s repressed without it being weird, he’s clued in to sex through modern media without being a jumpy, sweaty freak. He’s divine - as he has the sweetest soul. Just a delight to read about.

The religious aspects might put some people off this fic. Please don’t let it let you. This fic is too good. I’m not a big fan of organised religion, (don’t shoot me, I AM British) but I like the fact that this story talks about the values and morals of being a good citizen, of being a good friend, of being a good person, of being a good lover (& I don’t mean in terms of skills) - I mean in terms of soul. And THAT is what I find interesting about this fic. Its a very neat twist on canon, in the orig Edward is originally fear to make Bella lose her soul as he is sure he has no soul, this story to me is the exploration of soul and destiny.

The supporting cast in She Gives Me Religion are top-notch. I am in love with this Alice, she has all the right ingredients of canon Alice, and NONE of the annoying OTT fanfic caricature traits! PHEW! This Carlisle? Perfect, I want to hug him for being so fabbio.

Importantly (for me!) I actually like this Bella, she’s appealing, her grief and trauma is SO convincingly portrayed, as is her genuinely deep feelings for Edward. This Bella is not whiny - even though there is lots she could be whinging about.. She’s a good friend, a caring daughter and a nice person. She certainly wants to be a good girlfriend/lover to Edward given half the chance. This Bella is a realistic and sympathetic portrayal. I am rooting for her.

Jeanne - Bless me father for I have sinned. It’s been...well, I don’t think I’ve ever been to confession, but I have sinned Big Time. Yep, I am the one that’s responsible for recommending this fic to the other pervs. Not only is it an Ed/Bella fic, I think it’s WussPerv safe. WTF self? Despite these egregious flaws, She Gives Me Religion is one of the best new Twi fics out there. That is no exaggeration, if anything I’m being generous to other fics.

Liz_Lemon_Bennett wrote the first chapter for the Cherry Exchange and she won the prize for 1st Time Author. It was a well deserved award for a very talented writer (that I plan to watch closely). It takes balls and skills to write a complex story like She Gives Me Religion.

Edward and Bella meet on what has to be the worst day of Bella’s life. Everything in their lives is stacked against them having anything but a superficial acquaintance. Despite all the real world obstacles, they find a connection with each other that helps Bella hang on at her weakest of moments. Somehow through the hazy of grief and pain, Bella and Edward don’t just form a bond, they fall in love.

I mean, seriously if anyone had told me the set up for this fic I would have laughed in their face and never read it. That’s why I’m not bothering to tell you what it is, because they don’t matter. Whatever the circumstances, though they are compelling and well written, what matters is this Edward and Bella fit together.

Edward sees and feels this from the first moment he meets Bella. That surety, and confidence in his love for her is one of his most endearing qualities. That and his need to make mental lists that are hilarious, beautiful and very telling of how determined he is to do things “the right way.” Honestly, if Edward wasn’t so fucking charming, and earnest he’d be creepy, but he is so not. His love for Bella is so...pure. There’s no other word for it.

1-When she leaves, give phone number for 'counsel and friendship.'
2-If call, go to funeral
3-If no call, give 2 weeks before calling (coffee date?)
4-Build friendship for 1yr
5-after yr1, graduate seminary, start to woo, marry her
6-Don't compete with Mike
7-NEVER EVER call when drunk
8-If she dates others—don't blow up- 'normal' people need sex, she'll be yours in the end

Bella is helpless to his tenacious loving, and by that, I mean his caring for her during her grieving. Now, I know what you’re about to say. You’re worried that the Bella’s going to be a little too close to canon. All needy, and whine and crap. I know, I was worried too. Fear not, Liz_Lemon_Bennett has written on of my favorite Bellas ever! She is so real you can practically see her bleeding on the page. This is the strong, maternal woman that Bella Swan should have matured into. A caretaker that sadly lacks the ability to truly care for herself, until someone (Edward) steps in and forces her to accept his care right when she needs it the most.

That’s what makes this story so compelling. Seeing the push and pull of Edward and Bella. Watching, and loving how naturally their love progress, toppling even the highest of road block to push them towards what will inevitably be a HEA. Not because we hope it to be or that the author has promised it, but because you can see it within both of them in that first chapter. These two people are in love, not fancy, candy coated, Disney love. REAL, part-of-my-soul, I-can’t-remember-how-to-breathe-when-you’re-not-in-the-room LOVE. Finding that kind of love, so beautifully and believably portrayed, is rare even in a fandom where it’s written about everyday.

Jen - When Jeanne rec’d this fic to the Pack I started reading immediately and absolutely devoured the six chapters that were posted at the time. There was much flailing as I read. It’s such a wonderful mix of seriousness and lightness, utter despair and the most divine joy, innocence and sex on legs.

Edward the seminary student is caught in the awkward position of feeling attracted to the widowed bride he’s tasked with offering support to in the hospital’s Family Room. Edward has the most adorable internal dialogue, and even though it should be wrong to hope that he’ll get together with Bella, his ongoing self-talk makes you feel better about it.

I take a step back to collect myself, to shake free of these thoughts. Dear Lord, forgive me for such lustful thoughts I have towards this injured being… this child of yours who I am here to help, in service to you. God forgive me for my aching desire to touch her, to taste her… sorry. I'll pull it together.

Bella is more broken than Edward understood from the basic information he had about her. Not only was her brand new husband killed while they were on the way to the reception, but she was trying to cope with the knowledge that he’d cheated on her and led his parents to believe that it was Bella who cheated. As Edward struggles to balance offering comfort to Bella with his growing attraction, Bella struggles with grief at Mike’s death, relief that he’s died, and anger at Mr. & Mrs. Newton.

I know we’re the Perv Pack and I’m supposed to be talking about the smut, but I have to say how much I love this Edward and his good, good heart. He takes counseling so earnestly, and wants to do a good job for many reasons: for himself, for God, for Bella, and to impress his mentor. He has such admiration for his mentor, Carlisle. His faith is strong yet he also questions things. He’s got a two year plan for wooing Bella. How cute is he?!

Ok, now that I’ve gotten that off my chest I can properly flail about the amazing UST in the first chapter and the instant connection between Bella and Edward. As Chele said, I was so glad this was an entry in the Cherry Exchange contest because it wasn’t a matter of would they our won’t they, it was just a matter of when.

They’re virgins but that doesn’t prevent them from being comfortable with their bodies and sexuality.

I reach between her legs to find her wetness, cooling and sticky from before mixed with warm and thin. Someday soon, I will lick her dry. I can't help myself; I put my fingers in my mouth-salty, tangy honey. Liquid Bella.

"Damn, that's hot-just when I thought I couldn't get any wetter…" She pulls me down and kisses me, moaning into my mouth. I'm on fire from my navel to my knees. I rub the head of my cock over her clitoris, because I read it's supposed to feel good for both of us-which it does-and, well, just because I want to.

I don’t know any seminary students, so maybe I am way off base, but I was surprised--and aroused--by Edward saying he’d lick her dry followed by sucking the taste of her off of his fingers. And then Bella, virgin widow-bride, exclaiming how hot it was?! They’re adorable and sexy. Even better: Edward has read Maxim for sex tips. Love. Him.

Liz_Lemon_Bennett’s wonderful writing expresses the full gamut of human emotion. There’s anger, sorrow, warm paternal love (Charlie is super), the protectiveness of a fiercely loyal friend (Alice’s canon attributes are captured without resorting to cliche), grief, turned on, and of course, growing love. None of these things seem forced or like they don’t belong in the same story. is an absolutely fantastic story that will both make your heart sing and your lady parts tingle.

Jess - As a general rule, I really love fics that have strong religious overtones. I like watching as people struggle to reconcile what they believe with the challenges they face on a daily basis. This is exactly what happens in .

Edward is a seminary student who shadows Carlisle at the local hospital. On the day this story begins, Edward is called in to help support the survivors of a car accident. This is where he meets Bella. She is the bride and new widow of Mike Newton, the groom, who was killed in the car accident. We see her sitting alone, wearing a black coat over her blood-stained wedding dress. Edward sees her and attempts to connect with her. She is quiet, withdrawn, but they are both drawn to each other.

We see Edward struggle with lustful and confusing thoughts as he tries to comfort her. He is immensely attracted to her but knows he should keep his distance. After all, he’s just a seminary student, and she is newly widowed, but physical chemistry and raw sexual need often override logic. They find themselves inextricably linked and the pull between them wins.

It’s no secret that they have sex (as this was a Cherry Exchange entry), but watching it play out was utterly divine. You can see the concern, the need to give and protect her in Edward’s restraint. But Bella’s need to feel something other than pain and grief and sadness wins, and they do it. Like really do it in all the cherry poppin’ goodness we’d expect to see. Just... yeah.

I also appreciated how well developed her other characters are. Alice is more than just her “normal” pixie self. She’s Bella’s best friend, someone who fights for and supports her mightily. She immediately latches on to Edward and uses him to do her bidding while she’s in the hospital. Even Charlie, Bella’s father, and Sue Clearwater, who looks to be Charlie’s girlfriend, play critical roles in this story. The usual players aren’t present, and for whatever reason, I like that.

Liz Lemon Bennett has done an amazing job crafting a story that is full of USTy goodness and intensely sensual and sexual moments while not ignoring the deep struggles Edward faces with his self-talk (which is absolutely hysterical) or the pain Bella has to work through at the events that transpired between her and Mike before the wedding.

This story is vivid and very well-written. I am dying for another update. The last one - can I just say total emotional breakdown spurred on by Edward pushing her to the emotional brink followed by very hot, agonizingly intense sex in the woods - left me positively breathless and gasping. This story, shamefully, doesn’t have many reviews, but it is an amazing read.

Trin - A potty mouthed seminary student with a heart of gold and the body of a god...ummm sign me up please. is a beautifully written story of finding true love in the wake of tragedy as well as grappling with religious ideals.

Liz Lemon Bennett introduces us to characters that we automatically care about as soon as we read their first lines. She is able to convey that Edward is not only protective of Bella but cares for her so deeply that at times I feel my chest swelling with pride for him. Throughout much of the story Bella is not eating due to stress and and Edward continues to help her through her struggles.

Filled with my concern for her, I vow to convalesce her, protect her, and chase her nightmares away. I will feed her—turn her into my little butterball Bella. I will be anything she wants me to be. Fuck, I'd be a rodeo clown if she asked me.

I was already smitten, but the “little butterball Bella” had me head over heels. As with most of Edward’s internal dialogue it is kind and hilarious...and usually filled with expletives.

The religious aspect of this story doesn’t feel forced, nor does it seem that it is mocking one’s relationship with God and their beliefs. I have read a number of stories that I feel use the negative aspects of organized religion as a catalyst for acting out. really shows two people who love God and each other and how they try to figure out how to deal with that. It is a beautiful story that has me completely addicted.

Teal - I don’t even know where to start with this story. Of course, my fellow Pervs have said so much, and there’s the fact that I love this story sooooooo much that it’s hard for me to pinpoint just one thing about it that makes me swoon and squee. I suppose I’ll just begin with the premise of this fic. Wow. When I read the first chapter and original one-shot of this story, I was incredibly impressed with what a great idea this was, especially for the Cherry Exchange contest. Sure, it’s easy to come up with a fic idea that plays off canon or deals with high school (or even college) aged characters, but to develop a believable premise where two young adults, post-college, were still virgins was really quite impressive. From there, the meeting and near-instant bond between Edward and Bella was compelling, exciting, and so wonderfully believable.

This is one of those fics that made me so grateful for my BlackBerry. Seriously, if I’d had to go all day without being able to read this story while I was in the middle of it, I think I would have gone crazy. Instead, I was glued to my phone on every break and elevator ride I took. (Hey, don’t judge me. I see you checking your email on your smartphone in the middle of dinner.) Point being, I was addicted.

The struggles both characters go through is such a huge part of what develops between them and the way they find themselves leaning on one another. It’s also enough to make you believe that love at first sight (or at least falling in love after one day of knowing someone) really is possible. As Bella puts up a strong front to face her in-laws and comfort all of her belated husband’s friends, Edward is the one who recognizes that she needs an emotional release she’s not able to get elsewhere. And as Edward comes to terms with the sudden upheaval of everything he thought his life was going to be, Bella shows him that faith and family both have many faces, and that he will be okay, even if his life goes off track.

Each character has a long way to go to find their new direction, but it’s clear that in finding one another, they’ll make it a much more fulfilling journey.

Best of all (at least to a Perv), the intensity of emotion that these characters share gives way to some hot Hot HOT action. There really is something special about a man who will fuck you silly up against a tree, then lick the dirt and blood from your knuckles. Rawr. Where do I sign up for one of these sweet and strong pastor-type hotties? =)

Perv Pack Pick: The Art Teacher by Spanglemaker9

The Perv Pack Pick is...

Title: The Art Teacher
Author: Spanglemaker9
Chapters: 8
Words: 51,189
Reviews: 2949
Summary: He gave me art and words and passion and life, but all I wanted was him.

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Chele - It takes something pretty special for me to swoon all over an Edward/Bella fic, so let me just say, The Art Teacher, is pretty fucking special.

Spanglemaker9 does a masterful job of letting us into Bella’s head, showing us her misery at always feeling entirely other among her peer group and her resentment of privilege without making her seem pathetic or ungrateful. Bella is bright, intense, and strong in a world of vacuous self-absorption. She endures the isolation of feeling no true connection to the life she leads, until the day Edward walks in to teach her art class, and infuses her world with passion and substance.

The chemistry between Edward and Bella is incendiary. The Art Teacher is one of those rare AH stories which makes me believe in their connection with the same intensity of canon. Instead of the supernatural call of her blood, it is the human connection of two souls who find their perfect match while drifting in a sea of desperate emotional isolation. I’m thrilled by their discovery of each other, and enthralled by the way their worlds are enriched by each other’s simple truths. The visceral reactions she has to his art inspires him to create something worthy of the beauty he sees in her. His passion for her simply brings her to life. She blooms under the light of his enamoring gaze.

See? I totally swoon.

There is pleasure, temptation, and pain, as you can expect from a love which begins between a student and her teacher; but their connection is undeniable, and will not be ignored, or forgotten. I’m holding faith that Spanglemaker can get these two to a place where they can truly experience the full joy of each other’s love. However, I trust that even without a happily ever after, she will do what is right for these characters, and tell their story as it needs to be told. That is the mark of a great writer, and The Art Teacher, is a great story.

Emmy - I have yet to read a story by Spanglemaker9 that is NOT top-notch. She writes everything with a delicate intensity which makes every story an absolute delight to read. But. And this is a big but(t) for a tragic WussPerv such as myself - she is not afraid of making her characters work for their happiness. Of making their journey realistic and of making their love worthy and worth any heartache.

So go into this, and any of her brillo stories (that I have read) aware that its not an easy path to love or to happiness. Once you have this licked though, you are completely set. Spangle is going to take you on one hell of a journey.... I should also preface my review by saying that I am currently demonstrating a holding position on this fic, my fellow Perv’s are reading for me and letting me know when its safe for me to resume reading - I managed to read Spangle’s angsty The Wedding Party all the way through in time with her posting schedule, but for some reason have just wimped out a wee bitty on this one. I read up until my WP heart failed me! lol. BUT - that is not a reflection of how much I love what I have read or how good Spangle’s writing is. Email’s normally ping about back and forth as each chapter gets posted and inbetween The Perv’s enthusing, Jeanne takes pity on me and reluctantly tells me - ‘its not quite safe yet for you Emmy!’ Lol.

To me this story is a story of longing, not just longing for someone - not just Bella longing for Edward or for Edward longing for Bella - although read this:

As I pass Edward, I feel the tips of his fingers brush my arm through the sleeve of my dress.

"Hi," is all he says, but it's enough to throw me into a near-meltdown. I don't say anything in return, or even look at him.

Two sentences. How can two sentences say so fucking much? Wow.

So where was I? Yes - the theme of longing is central to this story to me. Both Bella and Edward are longing for more than just love or indeed intimacy and sex from one another. They are both longing for different lives.

I love the intensity of this story oh so much. It blazes through in every chapter. Gah. Plus being an honest whore-bag here - ArtistWard is proper-fit! Absolutely delish, every eeny-weeny bit of his chapter time is heat filled even if he is doing nothing. So even if a beautifully written, absorbing, engaging and burning story is not for you, read it for a very sexy ArtistWard battling against his own desires and circumstances to do right by his privileged, once-pupil Bella. **gulps**

Jeanne - There is nothing new about the alluring taboo of a romance between a teacher and student. Many of us remember what it was like to be young, and meeting older more sophisticated adults (men and women) that left us starstruck. Sometimes those feelings transformed into attraction and even a crush. Romantic fiction often allows us to live out those fantasies in a safe environment of make believe.

The Art Teacher at first appeals to this laden desire, but it takes a sharp turn from many other stories of this kind by giving us a complex, and rather mature protagonist in Isabella Dwyer. This is Bella Swan’s public face in this new (All Human) world that Spanglemaker9 has created. Here our plain, small town girl is in the extravagant, overwhelming world of New York City’s rich and wealthy. Bella’s mother is married to Phil Dwyer, a rich and successful businessman that is their families’ anchor in this society of appearances and materialism.

I am a lucky girl.

The first line of this story, and the first words that Bella conveys to herself in the narrative of this story are a lie. That simple lie that she tells herself everyday sets the foundation for the entire world that Bella is in at the beginning of the story. Everything in her life is based on this lie, and while she is aware of it, she is passive about until she meets her new art teacher, a passionate and talented painter named Edward Cullen.

On the surface, The Art Teacher is about a romance that slowly blossoms between a student and her teacher, but underneath that thin veneer this story is about two people that discover a very real, intense soul connection at the most inopportune time in both their lives, and how that connection forever changes Bella.

Spanglemaker9 takes great care in showing the development of their friendship and attraction; allowing Bella to fool herself about the strange looks, and reactions Edward has toward her. After all, it’s easy to dismiss the idea that a gorgeous artist, would ever be interested in a teenage girl, when he’s surrounded by wealthy attractive older women. While Bella doesn’t see it, we (the readers) witness how Edward struggles to maintain his distance and professional face when thrown together with this intelligent, and enthusiastic girl that has a intuitive understanding of art.

Their passion for artistic expression is the connection that helps bring them closer, and it also makes a lush backdrop to this beautiful story. Often while reading, I found myself stopping to look through my art books, and wishing that I have a print of Sir John Everett Millais’ Ophelia. It is the first painting that Bella responds to in the story and it is a very powerful and moving art piece, that I have always loved.

The way that Bella expresses how this painting makes her feel was a revelation for me while reading this story. It elevated this story beyond fan fiction into a story that has captured my heart and mind. I check the updates not just to find out what will happen next in the couple’s romance? but more importantly what will happen in BELLA’S story, because she is at the heart of this tale.

It’s sad to say that in a fandom filled with talented women, that this is one of the few, well written stories that is about a young woman’s journey through self discovery and finding love. That’s what I treasure the most about this story, and I think you’ll feel that way too if you give it a chance.

Jen - How can I express how delicious the writing in The Art Teacher is? How ‘bout this: Spanglemaker9 is able to make cleaning a scraped knee sexy and filled with more UST than some people see in a lifetime. Seriously, how can you make swabbing some iodine on a cut so hot? On top of that, Spanglemaker9 crams so much into every chapter. These are not long chapters, but you’ll never feel wanting at the end of a chapter. She’s not writing to reach a word count; there are no superfluous words here.

The tension builds from the first chapter, when Isabella, as she’s called by most people in this story, meets Edward. He’s the instructor of the new Art Appreciation seminar at her swanky private school. Edward is gorgeous, so she’s as interested in checking him out as all the other girls in the class are. Isabella is caught in his gaze a few times, and isn’t quite sure what Edward might be thinking when he sees her. She’s unexpectedly taken by the subject matter, and what looking at paintings makes her think about herself.Spanglemaker9 introduces a recurrent element of the fic: Isabella is living what many would call a charmed life, but she’s not very happy at all.

So, back to the sexy first aid. Edward is cleaning Isabella’s knee in the tiny bathroom of his apartment during a blackout.

"I shouldn't cover it up while it's damp," he says absently, still staring at the scrape like he's afraid to look away. And I'm still staring at him, because I can't not. Then he leans forward a little, purses his lips, and blows on my knee. I suck in my breath and hold it, biting my lips to keep back the sounds I want to make. His breath is warm, so warm, but the skin along my legs breaks out with goosebumps anyway. I'm almost shaking.

Holy shit. A brief, yet scorching hot, make-out session follows. Just as quickly, it’s over. Not just the make-out session, but the relationship: Edward skips town. I don’t know about anyone else, but I was completely gobsmacked by this, as well as by what the next chapter. Isabella gets through the next four years of her life, but she’s always thinking of Edward. Her longing is visceral in the chapters where Edward is not present, and somehow the intense UST is maintained even without Edward’s presence.

Now that I’ve had a day to recover from the shock that the last chapter gave me, I am eager to see how Spanglemaker9 ties together the overarching themes that explore the nature of happiness and how that intersects with money and power. At this point we don’t know if Edward and Bella will ever solidify their undeniable attraction and connection into something permanent and lasting. The UST, the kisses, and yes, the sex that have happened thus far have me yearning for at least one more encounter.

Jess - If it’s one thing I love, it’s a story full of tension. I love the questions that abound about what could be if only. To me, The Art Teacher is full of just those questions. What if your life was different than it was? What if you could have someone who seemed forbidden? What if you did what you wanted to do instead of what your family or society or whomever wanted you to do? What if you weren’t engaged to a man you didn’t love? What if the one person who had haunted your thoughts for years, the one person you’d fantasized about endlessly, the one person who had broken your heart even though he didn’t know it, returned? Those are some of the many questions that Spanglemaker9 plays with in The Art Teacher. She has masterfully crafted a story so rich visually, with so much tension that it is almost painful (in a good, squeeze your legs together, heart clenchy, stomach twisting sort of way).

This is the story of a high school Bella whose mother, Renee, is married to one of the city’s most wealthy and influential men. Renee left Bella and Charlie long ago, but Bella finds herself back living with her mother. With that move comes all of the expectations one might expect a young girl whose mother is living to impress and prove her worth. Bella is like a fish out of water, never fully taking to the life of the extremely wealthy. As a student at one of the most prestigious private schools, Bella is exposed to some of the best teachers... and some of the, erm, more unique opportunities. Enter Edward, aspiring artist and exclusive Art Appreciation teacher.

The connection between these two is immediate and intense. From their first moments in class to their visit to an art gallery to the Met and the subsequent blackout that sends them to his apartment, you feel the draw, the energy buzzing between them. Yes, it’s sexual, but it’s also intellectual. Their talk of art and meaning and depth is rich and full.

"Mm-hmm. The color. All that stuff you just said about the color defining the subject. It's so much like your work. The color makes me feel the same way."

Edward chuckles a little at my side. "I think that's the nicest thing anyone's ever said about my work."

"Come on, Edward. I don't know what I'm talking about. I'm just telling you the first thing I noticed. It's not like what I say matters."

"That's exactly why what you say matters." he says, his voice pitching up with excitement. "Your impressions are pure instinct. There couldn't be a more honest reaction to a work of art. That means more to me than all the pretentious art critic reviews in the world."

"Stop," I say, looking at my feet and trying to fight my smile.

"Hey, I mean it," he says softly, all exuberance forgotten. "Don't sell yourself short, Isabella. What you have to say really matters."

I look up to say something to him, but once my eyes meet his, I forget the words. All that's left is that energy again. But now we're so close in this nearly deserted gallery and his hand is still resting on my shoulder. Now I'm not just his student and he's not just my teacher. There's no point in trying to pretend otherwise. We're in some new place, where the playing field has been leveled.

His eyebrows draw together, that intense, almost-angry face I remember from the first day of class. He looks confused. He looks overwhelmed. He looks how I feel.

Edward’s art, so vibrant and alive with color, provides a beautiful visual of his soul. Of course, life and the added complication of being a starving artist put Edward in a place where he is beholden to the elite people Bella finds herself longing to disconnect from. The assumptions and realities that they face as a result pushes them apart in the worst possible way. It is gut-wrenching and so, so sad (def not WP-approved), but there’s hope as Spanglemaker9 shows how their time apart is full of personal growth and development.

There is much to see and feel as you read this story. We’re in a slightly dark space, but Spanglemaker9 has assured us that the story is complete and we won’t be waiting long. If you haven’t started reading this, give it a go. You will love the splash of color and the abundance of tension in all its forms.


Kitty - Okay, first and foremost, I need to state that I am a VERY hard sell when it comes to my reading. Yes that’s right, Kitteh is REDONK picky, so for something to snag me so fucking hard that I read it all the way through in one sitting says a lot. I’m not shitting y’all, I started and didn’t stop until I got to the end. I devoured this mofo like a fiend!

I love the tension between Bella and Edward. It starts from the first instant they are in the same room together and it builds so deliciously and perfectly that you can feel it in your spine as you’re reading. And when the tension snaps, dear fucking LORD! Hold onto something, or find a belt or leather strap to bite on cause I about lost my damned mind with that shit!

Another thing I really liked about this was that I didn’t feel like Bella was the run of the mill Bella. She’s basically thrust into a life she doesn’t want nor does she really belong in, but you get the feeling that she doesn’t know how to get out of it either. It truly made my heart ache for her on so many levels, which is where I was left at the end of the latest update, in the fetal position in the corner, heartclenching and crying and my wee little kitteh heart bleeding all over the place.

Hold me *snuggles into the collective bosom of my fellow Pervs*


Teal - If you’ve been around the fandom long enough, you know there are a lot of good stories out there, as well as really good authors. What sets Spanglemaker9 apart in our ever-growing community is that she’s not just a good writer, but a great storyteller. More than that, she has a consistent record of creating well loved Edward/Bella fics, and it’s for good reason that her readers love her so much (aside from the fact that she’s also a total sweetheart).

In The Art Teacher, we’re introduced to a very Gossip Girl/Cruel Intentions kind of world. It’s all disgustingly privileged Upper East Side teens and their bad habits. But Bella stands out from the crowd. Sure, she’s done her fair share of participating in the debauchery, but she says up front that she feels as though she’s outgrown it. Much like canon Bella, this characterization is beyond her peers in many ways, yet she still retains many aspects of the naivete that make up a high school girl.

Enter Edward, an alluring artist who not only catches Bella’s attention but also sparks new life in her as she discovers through his art seminar that she has quite the eye and appreciation for the arts. As the class progresses and she delves deeper into her new found passion, things get even more complicated with Edward. Though he’s only just a recent college graduate and not too much older than Bella, he’s off limits for a plethora of reasons. Her status, his position, and the thing that upsets Bella the most -- the relationships Edward appears to keep with some affluent older women in the community. As in, Edward is “kept.” Yeah, not such a pretty thought.

As it goes, things get twisted and complicated, and for a while, quite heartbreaking. Where the story stands now, there are some circumstances that may be difficult to overcome, but like I said before, Spanglemaker9 always comes through. If you can see past the drama and the touch of angst in this story, you’ll understand the strategic and well-paced character development this author has been formulating all along. Despite the fire that burns between Edward and Bella, and quite possibly an unspoken love they feel for one another, they’re not on the same level in their work, personal, or social lives. Until they can get there, what they have cannot be more that physical, but I have absolute faith that it will get to that place for these two.

In the meantime, I’m eating up the UST, innuendo, and sexy sexy sexytimes that we’re gifted with in this fic. There’s no doubt canon vampire Edward was damn appealing (or else we wouldn’t all be here!), but brooding Artistward could definitely give him a run for his money.

Trin - I think Teal nailed it on the head when she described the Cruel Intentions type of world that Spanglemaker9 paints for us. I am often a little leery of the “poor little rich girl” character, but you will NOT find this with The Art Teacher . We are able to get in Bella’s head and understand where she is coming from so well, that you really feel like you connect with her and her situation.

At this time I DO think as a good solid WussPerv I need to say that this story is tearing my heart out. I know it will all lead us to where we need to go and it is in noway gratuitous heart-clenching, but it is still making me flail all the same.

In the meantime I will just continue to bask in the completely awe inspiring UST and the very very swoon-worthy ArtistWard.

Perv Pack Pick: A Tale of Two Cities by TruceOver

This Month's Perv Pack Pick is...

Title: A Tale of Two Cities
Author: TruceOver
Chapters: 13
Words: 48,378
Reviews: 315
Summary: Emmett falls hard for a stranger at the airport. Edward refuses to give in. Will they be able to work through their issues and just be happy? *slash* AH Emmett/Edward

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Kitty - Okay, since I’m the slash newbie, I haven’t really seen that many pairings but when someone said Edward and Emmett…dude, my little kitteh ears perked right the fuck up! I mean, my two favorite Twi men…together…making with the sexy times…TOGETHER?!?!

*runs around the room in a fit of squees*

First off, this Emmett is sooooo Emmett. He’s funny and cheesy and just a big ball of oh-my-god-I-wanna-hump-ya! I love Emmett. Love love LOVE Emmett. His inner voice is so made of win!

Second, that two of them together? GENIUS!! I’ve dabbled in reading slash, a one shot here or there, but this pairing has turned me into a full blown, losing my wee kitteh mind, I wanna watch them screw like bunnies slash whore. I also love how organic their relationship is, how genuine their feelings for each other are. And don’t EVEN get me started on how hot they are when they are making with the sexy times…

I feel him tensing, getting close, but I'm not sure that I've made my penance just yet. I pull him out of my mouth. "Get on your back, Edward," I say, and he doesn't object. He scrambles to the head of the bed as I lean over to my bag that is resting against the nightstand. I pull out a bottle of lube, and his eyes go wide in anticipation. I coat my fingers with the lube and he bites his lip, his hooded eyes never leaving mine.

I lean forward and push his legs open, propping one up so that I have better access. I reach forward with one coated finger, and look up to see his reaction. He moans in anticipation, and I push forward, slowly entering him. "Oh, Emmett," he says as my hand meets his ass. I move back and forth a few times, and his groans grow louder with each pass. "More," he whispers, so quietly that I can barely hear, and I add another, my movements slow, then finally quickening in pace. I bring my mouth down to him, covering him, my tongue curling against the head of his cock as my fingers curl inside of him. "Shit," he spits out, and I can tell that he's close.

Now Edward, Edward is very Edward in this. He over thinks everything and is so serious all the time, so much that Emmett dubs him “Mr. Serious” before he learns his actual name which is what makes them so perfect together. They balance each other out so beautifully.

Oh, and did I mention that the sexy times were hot?

He's panting, and my soapy hand is doubling the pace of his breaths. I move up against him faster and faster, wanting nothing more than to enter him. God, I want to be inside of Edward more than anything.

He mumbles something that I can't understand and I ask him what he said.

"Want…," he groans. "Inside…," he moans.

*flails like a lunatic*

I officially give this one 5 out of 5 prostate tickles.

---

Chele - When you’re ready for a well-written story with two sexy, masculine, tender men falling in love and having steaming hot sex, look no further. Emmett and Edward are gorgeously written - each are strong and successful, but contain a vulnerability which makes you just want to hug them and push them together... chest to rock hard chest.

They meet at a chance run-in (literally) at the airport, and while Emmett obviously and immediately feels attraction, Edward seems to be immune to his charms. Emmett pursues Edward with the exuberance of a crushing teenager, initially to no avail. What looks like a one time missed opportunity turns into more when their paths continue to cross during their respective weekly work travel and Edward eventually succumbs to Emmett’s charms. I mean.. who wouldn’t? He’s completely gorgeous, successful, and deeply kind hearted, all of which we see through his interactions with his friends and co-workers.

TruceOver’s method of “show me, don’t tell me” character exploration is spot on. Instead of long, drawn-out narratives, she lets the actions and discussions between characters reveal their personalities and perspectives. This allows readers to form their own opinions about the players involved, and form attachments to them. And trust me. I am deeply connected to both Emmett and Edward.

The story unfolds as these two guys try to see if their lives can mesh together. Though it is apparent that the love between them grows quickly, there are complications which keep them from immediately having the fairy tale committed relationship that they both so obviously want, and that I want for them. Meanwhile, they’re reveling in the time they are able to spend together, and as their emotional connection grows, their *ahem* physical connection grows as well. Yum.

TruceOver is unapologetic in her portrayal of the characters’ sexuality, and it is refreshing to read a slash story where the main conflict has nothing to do with the character’s being in love with someone of the same sex. The obstacles between Edward and Emmett are real and un-contrived, and only time will tell if they are insurmountable. I, for one, will be reading with dedication while they figure it out. A Tale of Two Cities is a charming AH that tugs on my heartstrings and my zipper. If you aren’t reading it, you certainly should be. Go ahead and start right now.

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Teal - I for one love the trend of more Emmett-centric fics coming into the fandom in the past year. I mean, really, it’s Emmett -- he’s sweet, sexy, funny, and just plain awesome. Having Kellan to provide a lovely image for our boy certainly help. Umm, hellooooooooo Mr. Bajillion Abs *swoon*

Anyhoodle, let’s talk about this story. Let’s talk about how sweet and romantic Emmett is. Let’s talk about how willing he is to put himself out there, risking his heart, for someone he barely knows. Let’s talk about how rawrUNFrawr it is when these boys get down! What I enjoy about this Tale is that the chapters are short and concise but never lacking for great details and plot progression. Edward is apprehensive and damaged, extremely cautious, but he craves happiness with Emmett so much. He’s vulnerable and scared, which makes him incredibly canon, but at the same time, he’s so well suited for Emmett.

Another great part about this story is that it’s not just about the slashy yums. Granted, the sexytimes are something I flove, but there is a great plot here as well. Emmett and Edward’s pasts feel genuine, and the ways they interact with one another and all the people around them make both so relatable and believable. It’s easy to get caught up in their budding relationship, but at the same time, you’ll truly want to know what else is happening in their lives and how it will effect their future together.

We adore Big Gay Emmett here in the Shack, and this month’s pick is a fantastic addition to our list. Enjoy!

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Emmy - I’m a twat who has duffed her wrist/arm in a freak Christmas Day incident (don’t ask!) So am struggling to type. So I will keep this review more brief and sparse than I would like to. My apol’s for that lovelies, its in no way a reflection on the Perv Pick of the Month, A Tale of Two Cities. Which is grand.

I love the characterizations, Emmett is a ff character I often struggle with, but not here. He’s loveable, warm, sexy and sincere. Edward is hot. (yes I am an Edward whore, don’t act surprised by this, its no revelation) Edward is lost, vulnerable and scared. Oh and hot. :D

The story builds really nicely, right from the get-go I was hooked into poor Emmett’s POV, how many times have we all seen someone hot, who piques our interest? And how many times do we do NUFFINK about it? Well if you are anything like me, way too many times to mention... Emmett does do something however, but it doesn’t turn out quite the way he has planned. Edward gets under his skin, and thankfully Emmett gets under Edwards skin too.....

Deliciousness follows.

This is a brilliant story, brilliantly told. Even if you normally read Edward/Jasper or Edward/Riley type slash, go take a gander on this loveable Emmett. He’s not raging, he’s just real and believable. Brilliant.

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Kimpy - For anyone who has yet to discover the incredible hotness of m/m slash, I’m telling you--two guys together is just HAWT. And these two guys together? I have no words. They will send your girl bits into a frenzy, I assure you. A Tale of Two Cities’s Emmett is a lovely incarnation, amiable and hot, gaga for Edward the minute he lays eyes on him at the airport, but in a completely endearing way, not cheesy (even though Emmett considers himself to be a cheeseball of epic proportions; he isn’t). I’ve often wondered if I would feel the same way, spotting a beautiful stranger, so attracted that I would want to to follow him and introduce myself. While I would like to think the answer is yes, I know that I’m much more like A Tale of Two Cities’s Edward. Don’t make eye contact, sit by myself, hang up the invisible “DO NOT APPROACH” sign. This Edward is just one big heartclench--shy, private, reserved, and responsible with a capital “R”. He is also a DILFward to his little sister Alice, which makes him incredibly careful about the choices he makes in his personal life, and it causes him to eschew dating altogether.

Fortunately for us, Emmett is not like me, so we get to watch his attraction for Edward unfold slowly. Emmett is always the perfect gentleman, telling Edward all he has to do is say stop, and he will. All the while, I’m reading this, thinking to myself, “Don’t you even think of saying stop, Edward Cullen!” Emmett has to proceed with painful slowness, but eventually, he does get to proceed, and I was with him every step of the way. These two are great men, good family members, and the most loyal of friends. It made me so satisfied for both of them that Edward finally let his walls tumble down and allowed Emmett to get close. That’s the point where the story really begins to explode, and I do believe explode is exactly the right word choice here.

My inner 12 YO came out when one of the first things Emmett notices is Edward’s feet. As in, “His feet are... big.” I was giggling at the insinuation. The layers between them come off painfully slowly at times, but they do come off, and UNF. TruceOver includes the words in an author’s note at the end of a chapter: “So that chapter was about 80% lemon. I hope that was okay.” To which I can only reply, are you insane, woman? When would 80% Emmett/Edward lemons be not okay? *shakes head*

As their romance proceeds, Emmett takes to sending Edward random texts, and they are all kinds of adorable. They killed me in their sweetness, and, sometimes, their heat factor. TruceOver teases us to let us know that Edward and Emmett are engaging in phone sex, but doesn’t include us in the details of those *ahem* conversations. Please note the Kimpy pouted and stomped her foot when she didn’t get in on the phone sex transcripts.

The side plot in this story is Edward serving as Daddyward to younger sister Alice, and it is all kinds of endearing. In a really fun play on canon, Alice’s best friend is Bella, and Bella happens to have a crush on Edward, even though Alice tells her again and again that Edward is gay and her older brother. I giggled so hard at that. Jasper eventually shows up on the scene, and when he does, seeing Edward go into protective Daddy mode is delightful. He gets concerned about every touch, every silent moment, every little nuance.

In summary, the best advice I can give you is READ THIS STORY. Her characters are so endearing and compelling, you are cheering them forward into each other’s arms every step of the way. Certainly, there are missteps along the way, but for the most part, it is relatively angst-free, and just good, old, smoking hot M/M smut. MMMMM. Just the way I like it.

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Jess - I adore slash. It’s like a guilty pleasure that just keeps on giving, but this was the first time I had read anything other than Edward/Jasper. So, when my fellow Pervs mentioned this little gem, I immediately jumped on it.

I love the playful, lighthearted nature of A Tale of Two Cities. Emmett is downright adorable, sweet, and so genuine. He’s the epitome of the all-American guy, owner of a sporting goods store, and very comfortable with who he is as a person. Not to mention, how amazing he is with his employees. He makes me want to work for him... for so many reasons. Love, love, love this Emmett.

Edward, on the other hand, is quiet, more thoughtful, but no less confident. He is hesitant to get involved with Emmett, shunning him several times, despite the desire he feels. But as the sole guardian of his sister, he feels a sense of responsibility to be careful and sure before he pursues his own relationships.

The sexy times are so freaking hot, mouthwateringly so, and sweet heavens you’ll need a moment after these two kiss. It just leaves you begging for more, wanting to see where it’s going to go, and how it’s all going to turn out.

The sun is low in the sky behind him, the last bits of daylight making his hair glow as if it's on fire. He leans back and we lock eyes, then he leans forward and puts his lips to mine. They're soft and firm and I kiss him back, so glad that he's making the first move. After a moment, he opens his mouth to deepen the kiss, my lips parting and welcoming his tongue. I moan a bit into his mouth. I can't help it. I feel closer to Edward than ever before, and the fact that he wants to kiss me like this again is driving me crazy. I want him so badly; in every way possible. I want to pull back and tell him over and over again, I want you.

His hands come up behind my neck, mine down at his hips. At the same time, we pull each other closer, moaning. Eventually, he pulls away, taking my hand again and leading me back towards the hotel. My mind races, hopeful at the possibilities of what he's thinking, and trying to remember not to push him.

We don't say a word, and when we're in the elevator he pushes the button for the eighth floor, where we've put both our belonging in his room in a rush to get to dinner. For eight floors we kiss softly, slowly, his hands moving up and down my back.

The doors open and I take his hand as we walk to his room. I'm not sure what to do; I want nothing more than to keep kissing him, but now we're in him room and I don't want to him to feel pressured to take this further than it has.

I move towards my bags, and he looks at me in alarm.

"Stay for a drink?" he asks in a hopeful voice.

Watching these two broach the beginnings of a new relationship is so heartwarming and tender. Their playful, UST-y banter is killer and the plot line is so rich and real. I can’t wait to see where these two go together and how they grow!

Oh... and watch our for FELIX! He’s a hot mess of a menace and will leave you panting. Unf! That’s all I’ll say about that!

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Trin - I can say without a doubt that TruceOveris the first author I’ve ever read that makes me love Emmett MORE than Edward. Don’t get me wrong...I love this Edward, but holy shit i just want to eat Emmett up. He is so sweet and unapologetically cheesy that I found myself awwing out loud as I read.

The way their relationship evolves seems so real and sincere that you really become invested in these two. Annnnnnd....well, when they get busy it will make your heart pitter-patter.

Edward rolls over to face me and hitches his leg up over my hip. I pull him close, until his chest is touching mine. I can feel his erection against my own and the wetness of pre-cum against my stomach.

As much as I love the original leg-hitch, I REALLY loved this one too.

This is such a lovely, sexy and sweet story of two amazing men falling in love with one another that I am sure will warm every one's heart.

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Jen - There are so many reasons to love A Tale of Two Cities. It’s so exciting to find m/m slash that isn’t E/J. TruceOver has created two very realistic main characters with believable back stories. Even the supporting characters are richly drawn, and you can’t help but fall in love with these two fabulous guys.

Let’s start with Emmett. I keep wanting to use the word ‘nice’ to describe TruceOver’s Emmett, but it’s really inadequate for expressing how wonderful he is. Emmett is everything you love about canon Emmett: loyal, friendly, caring, optimistic, and funny. Oh, and he’s persistent too. He wants to get to know Edward, the stranger he bumps into at the airport, and despite being blown off a number of times, he keeps trying until he makes it past Edward’s defenses.

I love this passage, which highlights what a sweetheart Emmett is.

"Well, you have some time now don't you?" I cock my head to the side and smile.

He looks confused.

"Our flight is delayed. Probably just enough time to go and get that drink." I hold my breath because here I am putting myself out there to a man who literally seconds ago told me that he doesn't date. Apparently he has made me loose all of my dignity and sanity.

"Um, yeah...I guess."

"Good." I say it simply, as if that's that.

I stand and motion towards the sign in the hallway that has a picture of a martini on it.
He looks at me, then the sign, and then back at me. He bites his lip. He bounces his knee.
And then he stands up.

"Okay."

I allow myself to smile, holding back the victory dance that I really want to bust out in front of everyone.

He’s so so damn adorable!

Before that happens Emmett--and this reader--feels Edward’s rejections acutely. He’s just such a genuine person with good intentions, who could possibly reject him? I wanted to throttle Edward for not giving him a chance. Fortunately Emmett has his bff Rosalie to ply him with sweets or give her support when he’s feeling emo and unsure of himself. She has some serious reservations about this man from the airport, but she’s gentle when she shares her belief that he should look elsewhere for a man.

Now for Edward. When Edward brushes Emmett off I was prepared to hold a grudge against him for making Emmett so sad. Emmett nicknames him Mr.Serious before he learns Edward’s name. He’s gorgeous, but carries himself like he’s got the weight of the world on his shoulders. Every story has two sides, and when you get to the first EPOV chapter and learn exactly why Edward reacts like he does, and just as Emmett’s pain pulls the heartstrings so does Edward’s. Even before he tells us why he’s so serious, Edward had me wanting to take care of him from the start of the EPOV.

The elevator door shuts behind me, and I want to bang my head against the wall. I can't believe what I've just done to Emmett…again.

I'm such a jackass.

I pace in front of the elevator, knowing that he is somewhere up on the 7th floor, my hand itching to push the button so that I can find him and tell him that I've changed my mind.

But I don't….because I'm a jackass.

Since they don’t get together until several chapters in, even the smallest hint of intimacy takes on incredible tension.

He's kissing me.

The kiss is sudden; his lips are on mine before I know it, and they're soft and forceful. His hand is on the back of my neck, pulling me closer, and I don't fight it. After a few seconds he parts his lips and I feel the warmth of his breath in my mouth, followed by his soft, wet tongue. We stand there perfectly still except for our tongues and our lips, which are having a conversation all their own.

He kisses me with urgency, with need. He deepens it and I let him because God, I need it too. His fingers curl up into my hair and he moans and it takes everything in me not to push him up against the elevator wall.

It's intense.

And I love it.

Ohmagawd that kiss.

Edward is protecting his heart, on top of all of the responsibilities that weigh on him. Emmett knows that he’s got to be gentle with Edward, or else chances are high that he’ll run off like a skittish animal. He’s adorable as he tries to woo Edward and to get Edward to open up to him. And damn, they are hot together.

He freezes, and I immediately realize why.

"Edward?" I ask as I pull him up against me firmly. "Did…that incident…did that turn you on?" I whisper into his ear as I rub up against his groin, feeling his erection against my leg.

Out of the corner of my eye, I see Edward's cheeks go red, and he lowers his face into my neck. "Maybe…" he says as he rolls his hips into mine. "…a little."

Well hell, I wasn't expecting that. "Maybe," I whisper in return, "I can make things up to you…for behaving so badly."

He groans in response, and pulls my lips to his. He kisses me hard, his tongue invading my mouth, his hands in my hair. He doesn't answer yes or no, just kisses me as I grip his hips and pull him hard against me.

"Fuck," I whisper against his lips. "Let's go back to the hotel."

Unf!

I want Emmett to engulf me in a bear hug, and I want to snuggle Edward and help bear some of his burdens. I absolutely adore these boys, and I’m sure you will too.

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Jeanne - I decided to try something different for my rec. Please forgive the stuffy sound of my voice (I've got a cold) and my cheestastic radio-deeja sign off. Come on, we all know I'm a dork. ;)

Perv Pack Pick: Richteous and Wicked by cherry.blossomz

This Month's Perv Pack Pick is...


Title: Righteous and Wicked
Author: cherry.blossomz
Chapters: 16
Words: 56,270
Reviews: 1,469
Summary: Bella is a reluctant school teacher, stuck stagnant under a looming shadow from her past. Edward is an architect striving to overcome his vices by running from them. Will they strive for a righteous path, or spiral into wicked depths? AH/AU.

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Chele - Bella is distressed by Edward’s insistent, rhythmic pounding. Edward is enraged by Bella’s light, airy, subjective tintinnabulation. Hammers and wind chimes: the symbolism is awesome. From the first line, Bella and Edward’s interactions are passionate: frustration, rage, intensity - and they hadn’t even met yet.

Righteous and Wicked is a highly erotic story of attraction and the pursuit of redemption and salvation from self. Edward’s sex addiction, his need to pursue, to reach that high, is conveyed with realism, and is, aptly, similar to a vampire’s compulsion to hunt. Bella, recovering from loss and heartache, stumbles upon Edward’s secret proclivities, and is forced to confront an unbidden desire which contradicts her conservative facade. She likes to watch, and wants to be the subject of his compulsion. He believes, perhaps for the first time, that he can conquer his demons through the preservation of her perceived purity, by resisting his inner beast’s desire to claim her like the faceless women he pursues in the dark of night.

What I find so compelling about this story (aside from the intense provocative eroticism, which is like woah) is that I genuinely believe in the complementary nature of Edward and Bella’s personalities. So often when people write a sexual and dominant Edward, he is without personal remorse for his actions and the effect he creates on others (which is understandable). However when virginal, occasionally pious Bella enters, it changes him, and they come together seamlessly for a less-than-earned HEA. I don’t get it, and am turned off by it.
cherryblossomz goes the complete opposite route, by creating layered characters, whose personalities are both equal and opposite. It is Edward’s desire not to continue on his path, his desire to change, which has me invested in the success of his relationship with Bella, and really believing that they are compatible. Bella’s base sexual awakening, tolerant nature, and life experience convince me that she is going to have the stamina and patience to see him through channeling his dark nature into a healthy relationship with an equal.

Oh yeah, and it’s hot. Scorching hot. Steaming, pounding, blown by the wind of a tornado, hammers hitting wind chimes loud, frenzied, hot.

Intelligence and eroticism is my favorite combination, and Righteous and Wicked has it by truck-load. It is definitely on my drop everything and read list, and will stay there as long as cherryblossomz continues to bring the UST and realism.


Emmy - I wish I could remember for the life of me, how I stumbled upon this fic. I really do. So I could do it again! I very quickly got hooked on this story. The UST is scorching, blistering heat like crisp and melt your marshmallows on a stick over a bonfire melty hot.

They stumble into the foyer of the house, leaving the front door ajar. Their kiss continues as he carries her—unbreakable, hungry and desperate. They only make it as far as the stairs and Edward lays her down. He descends upon her, kissing her neck, rubbing the length of his body against hers. He wants to give himself to her, to replace all her pain with pleasure. He whispers again, "I'm so sorry, please forgive me."

Bella opens her eyes. She can see their reflection in the hallway mirror. What she has only fantasized about is reflected back at her. Edward— craving her, devouring only her. The front door was left open, and anyone could walk in or see them. This public yet private display feeds Bella's inner voyeur, and she is dripping wet. The way he touches her fuels the ache she has for him, and her need to feel him inside of her is all she can think of. She provokes him, fanning the flame, "You are not forgiven," she whispers.

He reluctantly removes his lips from her body and kneels before her. He wants to worship her, to adore her for accepting him as he is. He runs his hands over her bruised and scraped calf; he kisses her knees, and runs his fingers along the unspeakably soft skin of her thighs. He can see that her breathing is uneven. He slowly slides the hem of her dress up, and then his hands are on the lace of her panties.

"Edward, wait…" she tries to stop his hands with hers, but the look he gives her makes her think twice. She doesn't want to stop him, but she knows that this is his drug. She doesn't want to enable his addiction with her own selfish desire.

Edward looks ferocious, a single minded beast. He refutes her plea, "No. No waiting."

I love how it builds up the tension, so slowly, how Bella is initially invisible to him, how their interactions increase and grow in importance to them both. How they both have secrets from one another but how Bella cottons on to Edward’s pretty quick... And its her knowledge of his secret that makes her begin to come back to life and discover who she really really is.

The first chapter is quite jumpy to read, as the POV changes more than it does in subsequent chapters, so this can take a wee minutey to get used to. But IT IS worth it, imho. The style of writing is also quite detached, but this suits the story VERY well. As it gives the fic an intense voyeuristic type feel.

There are religious themes in this story. But more in the sense of what is right and what is wrong. What is the right thing to do morally and how does that fit with what is the right thing to do for the person? I think a particular strength of this fic is how it explores sexuality and the question of what is sexuality?

More than anything I love Edward’s characterization. Its delicious and complex. He’s dangerous and sunk and although his character and actions are far removed from canon he is probably the most canon version of AH Edward I have encountered.... Its a potent mix. One you must read! I order it!

This fic is my current obsession. We have been excitedly emailing with each new update. As the fic is building up something rotten!!! Gah! I love it so!

Edited to add: New chapter. Jesus Christ. I love this fic EVEN MORE!


Jeanne - I’ll admit that I hesitated before I read Righteous and Wicked. I mean it’s Ed/Bella and right off the bat there’s a heavy amount of religious themes in the very first chapter. We all know I’m not Team Ed/Bella and I’m also an atheist. So “hesitated” is an understatement. I was ready to beg the girls to let me out of having to read it all together, but the Pervs know me, and assured me that this story isn’t what it seems. That is an understatement as well.

If I were to sit here and break down the basic summary of this story it would woefully under represent the complexity and artistry put into the characterizations and plot of this spellbinding story, but I will give it my best shot. Righteous and Wicked is a complicated and haunting story of two very lonely and troubled people that find a deep connection. Edward is the portrait of the dark, remorseless sexual predator and Bella is a frail, heartbroken, devout Christan woman. Despite their apparent differences they have a lot in common as they begin to realize as they spend time together.

cherry.blossomz isn’t giving us the same old Ed/Bella star-crossed lovers who’s love will win out over...blah, blah, blah. She has woven a fascinating and intense story about truly flawed people who share a profound connection. Nothing about Righteous and Wicked is simple or predictable, that includes my own addition to it. This story continues to floor me with every new chapter. I’m foaming at the mouth for more, and you will too. Just read the first chapter, get a taste of Edward’s stormy eyes and I guarantee that you’ll be feverishly reading and loving this story.

Jen - Despite the tenacity with which canon Edward clings to his virginity, there are many fics which portray Edward as a man-whore who is either redeemed by Bella or who turns Bella into a nymphomaniac. In Righteous and Wicked, Edward is more than a man-whore, he’s a sex addict. What sets this fic apart from others with a sexually voracious Edward is that cherry.blossomz doesn’t simply use Edward’s lust for sex as an excuse to fill each chapter with a lemon, but to show us his canon characteristics in a new light. And it is damn delicious to read.

I love the way cherry.blossomz uses ideas and vocabulary from canon to describe Edward’s relationship with sex. Edward describes his need for sex as his thirst, and when he trolls a club or bar for sex he considers himself hunting. I love this little bit, especially for the last sentence:

Edward loves that she tries so hard to keep him occupied, to try to keep his mind on things other than quenching his ever present thirst. But sometimes she hurts more than she helps. When she wears a certain color, or touches him, or laughs…or breathes.

Edward is not accustomed to being interested in a woman beyond seducing her and giving himself over to his sexual urges. Bella’s got him rocked back on his heels. He’s wanted to stop succumbing to his desire for anonymous sex, but until he meets Bella he knows his attempts will be futile. There’s something about Bella that truly makes him want to beat his addiction.

Bella is drawn to a beautiful stranger in a club. There’s something magnetic about the way he approaches a woman on the dance floor, the way they move together. Bella cannot keep her eyes off of him, off of the way the woman reacts to him, and she follows them when they leave the dance floor for a quick bathroom fuck. She’s never done anything like this before, and while she knows it is wrong to keep watching and listening to them, it’s unleashed something in her that she can’t put back in the box.

Bella’s had a rough year; she’s been abandoned by her husband, and lives a pretty ascetic life. She goes to work, she goes to confession, and she spends the rest of her time in her home, all alone, to the dismay of her friends. I think that Bella views her life as what she deserves, that as upset as losing her husband is, there’s some part of her that believes she deserves it, and she doesn’t allow herself to fully live and enjoy life.

After that night in the club, Bella keeps seeing Edward around Forks, and even secretly watches or listens to more of his sexual encounters. Suddenly, sex with Edward--mysterious, powerful, self-assured--is about all she can think of. Though they get off on the wrong foot when they meet, Edward quickly becomes as drawn to her as she is to him. He wants her, but thinks the monster inside should leave her alone. She desperately wants to be consumed, as he consumes his other conquests.

The lemons in this fic are so unbelievably hot. Although she doesn’t have very much sexual experience, Bella completely gives herself over to the physical pleasure that Edward’s body gives her. And it’s fascinating to hear Edward fight his demon while still getting what he needs from the encounter.

I’ll leave you with one of my absolute favorite parts of this fic.

He takes his mouth away from her wetness and moves up her body. He kisses her neck again, and his immensely hard cock presses against her through his black jeans. He whispers, "Bella, I want to give that to you, but not now. I can't now. I just want to make you feel good. Bella, I want you to forgive me. I need you to. I need you to save me, Bella. Você não sabe quanto tempo eu esperei por você.

And that, ladies, is how you say ‘You don’t know how long I’ve waited for you’ in Portuguese. Unf!

RaW posters made by Jadalulu.

Jess - After reading through my fellow Pervs’ thoughts, I find there isn’t really much more to say or add. They have captured every element of this story and why I love it - the Portuguese (secret foreign fantasies abound), the very canon elements wrapped around a very OOC story, the juxtaposition of purity and depravity, the meddling friends, to name a few.

I stand in awe of cherry.blossomz ability to create such amazing, panty-soaking, heart-clenching UST. Awe.

Do yourself a favor and read this rare gem. It’s simply too good to miss.

Kimpy - I feel like I need to start my comments by stating that I am agnostic, so themes of righteousness and depravity make me naturally suspicious. When I first started to read, I felt the weightiness of Bella’s religious conviction, and I was worried it would be an angel versus whore story. My fellow Pervs prodded me to continue on, that it would be worth my while, and as usual, they were completely correct. I am so engaged in this story now, I was frustrated when I got to the most recent chapter. Suddenly, I’ve become Veruca Salt, stomping my foot in protest—I WANT MORE! I WANT IT NOW!!

I’ve come to recognize that, in the Fandom, many readers are looking for the equivalent of romance novels. While there is absolutely nothing wrong with that, I’m admittedly a bit different. I want a good, engaging fic that’s laced with eroticism. Righteous and the Wicked does that for me. I found it to be deep, challenging, and incredibly erotic.

cherry.blossomz sets the tone for each chapter with some rather philosophical quotes. In chapter 4, she starts with one from Milan Kundera, and Righteous and Wicked instantly struck me as a parallel of "The Unbearable Lightness of Being" (which Edward is also reading in this story). I can totally see Edward and Tomasz and Bella as Tereza. To say that Kundera’s book, and the subsequent movie, were erotic is an understatement. I absolutely love that she uses the same types of issues as does Kundera. You get a perfect mix of complexity and hotness, and it is akin to Kimpy Kryptonite. UNF.

Righteous and Wicked deals with a Bella who is very virtuous but wronged, and an Edward who is attempting to escape his past, who is the opposite of Bella in nearly every way. He is a sexual addict, constantly circling his environs for his next victim. At first, I was unsure of whether or not this was a vamp/AU or AH Edward, because he talks about his hunger and his need to satisfy himself. It isn’t immediately clear whether he is talking about blood or sex. The compulsions he has force him to troll for victims. I realized that, in the end, the reasons for needing a victim hardly matter—they’re both so similar, really; it’s the same kind of hunt.

Bella and Edward are brought together via a wind chime that Bella has hanging on her porch. As Edward tries to fall asleep at night, he is intensely distracted by its noise. Bella, on the other hand, is awakened on Saturday mornings by Edward’s bulldozer. I was intrigued by all the subtle ways cherry.blossomz works canon into the story, and this was a stellar example. Edward cannot sleep, and Bella cannot sleep in. Brilliant.

The interesting thing about Edward’s addiction is that, while cherry.blossomz describes his anonymous hook ups in detail (OMG, muy caliente alert!!), they do not provide the most intense heat in the story. No, that is reserved for Bella’s encounters with Edward. All they have to do is look at each other and my lappie monitor melts. He is resolved that he won’t touch her purity. She is resolved to touch his depravity. Thus, they arrive at an impasse. It’s as though there is music playing for them as they stare at each other—they are separate from one another, not touching, but somehow, cherry.blossomz still creates an intricate dance between them.

My absolute favorite erotic scene involves nothing more than Bella and Edward sharing a plum. They are riding their bikes, and stop to have a snack. Bella bites into the ripe plum, then offers some to Edward. He reaches over, and instead of taking it from Bella and biting into it, he merely grabs her wrist and bites into it while it is still in her hands. Bella then bites it again, and it is the sexiest thing in the world.

I would do you an incredible disservice to give more potent details here; do yourself a favor, and discover the story’s many gems. They are so good, and you will find yourself just as compelled to read as Edward is to troll for sexual encounters. I promise.


Teal - My fellow Pervs have been talking this story for weeks, and while I completely trusted their judgment in the high level of UNFnacity that cherry.blossomz has created, I simply didn’t have time to dig into a brand new multi-chap. When my opportunity finally came around, I found myself glued to my BlackBerry and/or computer, depending on where I was and what I had to do. During my moments of freedom at home, I was sitting at my desk, enraptured by the intensity and deep complications of this story. When it was time to make dinner, I pulled up the chapter I was currently on and stood at the stove with my phone in one hand and a spatula in the other. Waiting in line at the grocery store? I was reading Righteous and Wicked. Those ten minutes between laying down in bed and actually falling asleep? Yup, I would read until my eyelids sagged and I passed out.

Basically, I was obsessed.

While I was skeptical at first about the way the third person POV flip flopped, I quickly realized how well cherry.blossomz made it work for her story. Not everyone could pull that off, so I see it as a sign of a top notch author. Oh, and the fuckhotness of each and every encounter between Edward and Bella, even when they sort of kind of hated each other. The heat and passion between them, despite the way they appear to be living on opposite sides of the spectrum, builds to a twitch-inducing peak, and somehow, it stays there throughout the entire story.

The thing that really gets me about this story is that the way Edward and Bella finally get together intimately (AKA when then finally fuck) has the potential to be a little upsetting to the hopeless romantic in all of us . . . and yet it is so fucking sexy and works for them.

In this most recent update, just posted on Sunday, cherry.blossomz has KILLED. ME. DED.

There is a distinct juxtaposition between Bella’s meddling friends, scheming to “protect” her from Edward, and the absolute most intense love scene of the story thus far. As Edward and Bella descend deeper and deeper into their tangled game, Edward battling between his addiction and his developing feelings for Bella, the side-shots of Rosalie and Alice’s conversation creates worry for that side of the situation. It’s clear that shit is about to hit the fan, and the question is posed as to whether all these newly emerging feelings between the lovers will withstand an attack, or if it will all implode with Bella’s friends’ plan.

If you have any doubts about this story, let me just leave you with this little taste of the UNF...

He releases her lips, and then he rises up slightly to watch his cock moving in and out of her, and Bella watches too.
The image is so erotic, and intimate, and dirty. She feels herself reaching a peak. It's like something inside of her needs to break free. Her skin vibrates, and she comes. She comes so hard she whimpers, and digs her nails deeply into Edward's shoulder.
He doesn't give her any respite; he leans back and pulls her body on top of him into his lap. He kisses and sucks at her neck, and whispers, "This is me you're with, I'm here, I'm with you…"
And she knows what he means.

Trin - I think I am going to have to send Emmy a big box of chocolates for turning us onto such a delicious story. As many of the others of the Pack have said this story has UST so hot you literally will stay up much later than what would be considered appropriate for a responsible adult just to read more. The character development cherry.blossomz delivers with this story is fantastic and you don’t feel as if it is all just leading up to a lemon (though the lemons are AMAZING)!

I loved that cherry.blossomz wrote an AH Edward that reminded me so much of a Vampward due to his sexual addiction. The talk of his thirst and need is so reminiscent of Meyer’s Twilight that it added another layer entirely to the story. With the cold weather upon us, I’d say hunker down with Righteous and Wicked because it is guaranteed to make you hot. Very hot.