Friday, March 11, 2011

::Team Twilight:: Fan Fiction Friday



I know you’re beggin’ for a bite, just a little taste, he’s just so dang scrumptious, you begin to salivate at the mere sight of him. And the trouble is he really thinks he’s scary, but he’s just too adorable to frighten anyone. Don’t tell him that though. I know a lot of you may think I’m talking about Edward here, but I don’t care what team you’re on, everyone craves a little bit of Emmett from time to time. So, just for Kellan’s birthday, you should head to the blue door, knock the beat of “Rhythm of Love” by the Plain White T's and the password is “Emmett”. Be Safe!

~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Travelers hurried around the airport terminal in a flurry of chaos. It was early and I was tired; happy, but tired. In a town that spent so much time partying the night before, I was amazed that this many people were functioning. I glanced around again; maybe functioning was the wrong term. Only about a quarter of this crowd could actually be classified as functioning, most of them looked hung over or perhaps even still drunk. The rest looked like the walking dead; the Cullen’s didn’t stand out in any way.

Reflecting on our trip, we’d had a lot of fun in New Orleans and after the incident with the voodoo shop owner, we tried very hard to not scare anyone else. However, as we got closer and closer to Mardi Gras, it appeared that the general public got drunker and drunker which also meant that they stopped paying much attention to us altogether. Rosalie had the best time throwing beads and Edward managed to talk his way into jamming with a local jazz band. It was awesome to see him on stage and it was easy to see how happy it made Bella to hear him; like he had the whole band playing just for her. It made my heart melt.

But right now, I was sitting at gate C36 playing spades with Edward, Bella, and Jasper. Bella was protecting our thoughts so Edward couldn’t cheat and Jasper was keeping me calm so that I was not at a human disadvantage. It was entertaining and currently Bella and I were winning 5 games to the boys 2 games. I wasn’t sure where Alice and Emmett had run off to and Rosalie, Jacob, and Renesmee were all browsing a car magazine, feverishly debating the benefits of a particular brand of spark plug, I think.

I looked up at the board for the gate again, “Las Vegas, NV” scrolled across the LED panel. When I reviewed our itinerary last night I could have sworn we were connecting through Denver, but the gate Alice sent us to had yet to indicate a Denver flight and although I was slightly confused, I was too exhausted to put up a fight. I was simply along for the ride. So I played my hand.

“Way to go, Andi!” Bella exclaimed raising her hand for a high five, I smacked her hand. “That makes us 6 to 2! Want to play again?”

“Why bother?” Edward shrugged. “You and Andi are killing us.”

“Afraid you’ll lose again?” she taunted back.

“Honestly? Yes.” He laughed as he answered her. She smiled back at him and kissed him lightly. Then she turned back to me, “so, got anything new to read?”

“Oh, I have some excellent things to read,” I smiled at her and reached into my bag for my netbook. “Give me your Kindle and I’ll load them.” She handed it over and once my machine was up and running, I plugged it in and started transferring files.

I was scrolling through my directories, when a balled up piece of paper hit me in the back of the head. I picked it up and turned around, but nothing was there. I turned back to my computer. Another ball of paper hit me and I turned again, but saw no one. I rolled my eyes and faced my computer again. A third ball of paper hit me and I spun in my seat, “Emmett!” I growled under my breath.

“What?” he answered from the seat beside me that was previously empty.

“Stop.” I told him simply.

“Stop what?” he asked feigning innocence, but smiling at me.

“Stop hitting me with paper.” I stated and turned back to my screen. “Where did you and Alice go anyway?”

“We had to go change our flights to the one to Vegas.” He sat back in the seat as though this was the most normal thing in the world.

“Why are we going through Vegas? Was Denver not a good place to change planes?”

“Oh, I’m sure Denver would have been fine, but we’re going to crash a birthday party.”

“We are?” I was now intrigued and he knew it. “Who’s birthday party?”

“My doppelganger, Kellan Lutz, is having a birthday party at club Pure in Vegas and we’re going to crash it.” Emmett stated smiling so wide, it appeared as though his face might split in two.

“Awesome!” I responded unplugging Bella’s Kindle. “Here Bella, I’m done.” As I leaned across the space to hand it back to her, I felt another ball of paper hit me in the head.

I turned to face him, “Why do you keep doing that?”

“I’m bored and you’re funny” he chuckled.

“I’ll make a deal with you, if you stop throwing paper at me, I’ll make sure all my stories this week feature you, in honor of Kellan’s birthday. Deal?”

“Sweet! Deal!” he answered, but continued to play with the paper in his hands.

“But if you hit me with anymore paper the deal is off, got it?” I sat back with my netbook and plugged in my wireless modem.

“Fine.” He said with a pout on his face.

“Now go away, Babe, you’re bothering me.” I told him patting his leg and smiling at him. Then he patted my head and I heard him say, “Oh Rosie!” just before he walked away from me.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Now, I don’t have a clue what he and Rose may have done at the airport, but he didn’t come back to bother me, so I’m keeping my promise and boy did I find some deals for you. I hope these fulfill all your Emmett fantasies.

My first drool worthy Emmett tale is titled, “The Ice Queen and Mister McCarty” by SebastienRobichaud. Emmett McCarty is a partner attorney for Smithson and Sons and he’s very good at what he does. It’s just unfortunate that his office is right beside the water cooler and he’s subjected to much more gossip than he’d like. Of course, being a highly intelligent, former college athlete, Emmett is intimately aware that things are not always as they appear. So when he’s caught defending the honor of the office “Ice Queen”, he becomes even more aware that there’s something she’s hiding under this cold armor she’s wrapped around herself. Will his warm personality and gentle nature, be enough to thaw her so that she can finally be herself again? This is an excellent story from an amazing author, so I know you’ll enjoy it.
http://www.fanfiction.net/s/6528047


My next Emmett tale is a tad of a puzzle called “Down & Across” by hmonster4 and TheHeartoflife. Emmett McCarty used to be a big time technology executive, but knew that was never the life for him. Rosalie Hale thought she was well on her way to achieving her dreams, successful career, husband, and friends, but deep down she wanted more, she knew there was more. Two lost souls reaching out, trying to spell out that what the heart desires. Can two people look passed their complex pasts and find something amazing in the simple pleasures of a coastal town? This tale is very light hearted, but the journey is worth it.
http://www.fanfiction.net/s/5967086


My next deal is a collection of one shots called, “30 days of Emmett” by 30 Days of Emmett. This is 5 weeks of little randomness, outtakes, and one-shots from more than 70 authors, all devoted to the big guy with the dimples. It includes all different ratings, all pairings, all universes and genres. For true variety, this is a fun read.
http://www.fanfiction.net/s/6476118


Finally, I’m offering up a hot story called, “Heavy in Your Arms” by sadtomato. Bella dated Edward in High School and she thought things were amazing with him until things just weren’t. Something was off about their relationship and even though she couldn’t quite identify what it was, she trusted him enough to let him be her first. But Edward was harboring a secret that he wasn’t even willing to admit to himself, which left Bella feeling worthless and broken. A year later, she runs into Emmett, Edward’s older brother, at a party and learns the truth about Edward. Can the truth about Emmett’s feelings help her heal and learn to be appreciated? Can she learn to forgive herself?
http://www.fanfiction.net/s/6109126


Now, because its Kellan’s birthday and he never got back to me on twitter as to whether he preferred cake or pie, I’m going to go with an Emmett preference. In breaking dawn, Emmett and Jasper were contemplating the hunting possibilities in the Amazon, one of which were jaguars, so I’m suggesting something better than cake, called “Jaguar Bars”

Ingredients
1 cup Butter
1 cup firmly packed brown sugar
1/2 cup sugar
2 eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla
2 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon Baking soda
1 teaspoon ground Cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 cups chopped dates
1 cup chopped Walnuts

vanilla glaze
2 cups powdered sugar
1/2 teaspoon vanilla
1/4 cup Milk

Instructions
Soften butter, blend with sugars and eggs until mixture is fluffy, Stir in vanilla and dates. Let stand for 5 minutes to soften dates. Add salt, cinnamon, and soda; mix well. Add flour and blend until all dry ingredients are moist. Stir in nuts.

Spread into an 11" x 17" cookie sheet pan with sides. Bake at 325 for 25-30 minutes. Cool completely then cut into 2.5" x 3" rectangles.

Mix glaze until all sugar is dissolved and smooth. Drizzle over bars and allow to dry completely (usually overnight, so you'll want to cover with paper towels or another cookie sheet of equal size) before removing from pan.



Well, we'll get back to the Shack someday, but until next week. If you're part of my challenge, be sure to log the chapters you've reviewed for the Million Word Reading Challenge (I've released part of the fic I was challenged to write, you can find it under the title "In Nature"), Tweet (FanFicDealer), Message me on Facebook, or email (fanficdealer@gmail.com) if you want to talk shop.

The deal has been made. ;)

Wednesday, March 9, 2011

::Team Jasper:: 100 Monkey's Official Novel Available for Pre-Order

Since, I'm seriously addicted to anything of a literary nature, I'm going to fill you in on this little tidbit: 100 Monkeys claims that they have written a book!!

Now before you start screaming "OMG!OMG!OMG!", take a deep breath while I tell you a few of the details, so you can judge for yourself:


  1. The release date is April 1st.

  2. Nowhere on their official website does it say what the book is about.

  3. You can pre-order a signed copy for $40 and an unsigned copy for $10.

  4. They have created a commercial for the book, which still doesn't reveal what the book is about.

  5. The book in the commercial looks like a bound library book with a sticker on it.

  6. It could be fiction or non-fiction, your guess is as good as mine.




So, here's where I'm going with this; given the date of publication, is this real? Or simply an elaborately planned April Fools joke?

Here's a link to the sale of the book if you're willing to take the risk.
http://www.100monkeysmusic.com/monkeymart

You tell me. ;)

Friday, March 4, 2011

::Team Twilight:: Fan Fiction Friday



I know what you’re thinking, “It’s Friday and you’re ready to party.” Well, keep your shirts on and while we don’t have beads to throw at ya, Lab Tech Andi has been scouring the Big Easy looking for fics worthy to throw. So if you’re looking for something hot, head to the blue door behind the shack, knock the tune of “It’s a Wonderful World” by Louis Armstrong and the password is “’Nawlin’s”. Be Safe!

~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Once the activity from the Feds died down at the Shack, Alice and Jasper joined us at the safe house with a tour bus and a lot more luggage than only two people needed. So I thought I’d ask, “Hey, Alice what’s up with all the bags?”

“It’s so close to Mardi Gras, I thought we’d head on to New Orleans instead of going back to the Shack.”

“We’re going to Mardi Gras?” I asked

“Yep, and we’ll be there a few days early, so I thought we’d do some fun stuff while we’re there.” Alice responded and proceeded to outline our trip.

Once we’d arrived in the city, Alice had a bunch of crazy activities planned. One afternoon she thought it would be fun to visit a fortune teller. Everybody took turns getting their palms read, and after it we were finish we laughed that she predicted Edward would become a millionaire, Rosalie would have 3 children, and Alice would die at an early age.

Another afternoon, Alice scheduled us a private little Sookie Stackhouse tour, which was very fun because Rosalie and Emmett pretended to be Sookie and Bill the whole time. I suspect Emmett had a little too much fun with that one.

We visited museums, plantations, and cemeteries, even went shopping but the funniest was the afternoon we walked into a voodoo shop and the poor woman running it nearly had a heart attack. She ran up to me, grabbed my arm, and thrust a silver cross in the direction of the vampires that had walked in with me. “Stay back! I know what you are!” she shouted at them. “And I’m not going to let you harm this girl!”

“Harm me?” I asked snickering, “I think you’re more likely to hurt me than any of them are. Will you please let me go?”

At first they were all shocked and then I saw mischief flash in Jasper’s eyes and he winked at me, which made me wonder what they were thinking. He slowly sauntered towards me and the woman and stated very clearly in his very best Texan drawl, “Andi, you’ve always been a little naïve, but now this woman has exposed us. I guess it’s time to eliminate you and this woman. We always knew this day would come.” When he finally reached my arm, the woman abandoned me and ran screaming out the back of the shop. Jasper offered his arm and I looped mine through his.

“Eliminate?” I laughed. “Well, make it quick if you must then.” And we all walked out of the shop and headed back to the hotel laughing the whole way.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~

While Mardi Gras may not be until March 8th, hanging out in the Big Easy inspired me to dig around extra hard and find some ‘Nawlin’s deals to bring you with me. I know you’ll adore the gems I found.

First, I have an amazingly addictive historical tale titled “Enchanté” by rpgirl27. The year is 1858 and after being forcibly kicked out of the city of Chicago, Edward and his father decide to sell their lucrative shipping business and relocate. However, it isn’t until Edward, a very skilled poker player, manages to win a plantation during a well played hand, that they decide New Orleans is where they will begin their new life. While adjusting to southern living, they are both introduced to a whole host of unfamiliar customs, including one in which gentlemen are able to take on a consort of African descent. Is a consort the motivation he needs to leave behind his sordid and sinful ways and become a true gentleman or will his father tempt him back into his not so noble life of drugs, whisky, and loose women? The characters in this story are a quite colorful cast and the author makes you feel every emotion and goose bump as the tension between Edward and Bella increases. I have adored every second of this antebellum piece and I know you will too.
http://www.fanfiction.net/s/5676810/


Next, I have a hidden little gem called “Swan Song” by nothyme. Bella lives an unremarkable life, doing an unremarkable job, but that’s all about to change and it’s not even 10am yet, because a bar just opened down the street. You may wonder what could possibly be so special about a bar, but it’s not the bar itself that will change her; it’s the proprietor that will discover her, the family that will love her, the patrons that will encourage her, and a man that will heal her when she didn’t even realize how broken she was. And in return she will give them all she has left to give, herself. I love this story and it shocked me to no end that it remains to be largely undiscovered, but I guess life does occasionally imitate art, huh?
http://www.fanfiction.net/s/5728734/


My last little melodic tale is titled “Keeping the Faith” by Holly1980. It’s so difficult to watch what you love fall to pieces, but you can’t avoid the truth forever. When Katrina hit New Orleans it scattered nearly all of its residents to locations all over the U.S. Once the waters receded they slowly began to trickle back but the state of their fair city was heartbreaking. Edward had always loved her; quite possibly the only love he’s ever known, but he just couldn’t bring himself to see her in all her devastation. However, he’s about to meet a woman who embodies the very city he loves. Will her love be enough to bring home the beloved wayward son and make him reclaim who he really is?
http://www.fanfiction.net/s/5960568/


Now, to go along with these fics, I'm adding two recipes that were generously provided my darling blog sister Denise, or as some many know her, LaughingTwiGirl. Since she lives down there and will be partying like a crazy person, I trust she knows how to fix the local fare.
Gumbo was mentioned a couple times in these and since this Chicken Gumbo looks really good, I suggest you make a pot:
Chicken Gumbo
1 whole chicken cut up (skin removed)
3 to 5 quarts of water or chicken stock
1/2 cup chopped onions
1/2 tablespoon of celery
3/4 cup parsley
2 teaspoons bell pepper
1 teaspoon minced garlic
1 teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce (down here we allllll use Lea and Perrins)
salt and pepper to taste
a few bay leaves
Roux: 1/2 cup cooking oil and 1/4 cup all purpose flour
To make a roux requires time and patience, it can burn really really easily, I know, I've done it before! But in order to have the perfect Gumbo, you have to start with a Roux. Heat a stock pot over medium to low heat. Add oil, after a few minutes, finger a little flour in it to see if it starts to bubble, if so, add your flour slowly all the while WITH A WOODEN SPOON (don't use a plastic one) stirring. Your hand and arm will get tired as you stir constantly. Don't ever stop! The color of the roux is up to you but you want to achieve a color of a Hersey Kiss like my mom says. Once you have, turn your fire off immediately and let it cool for about 10 minutes, STILL STIRRING!
Now, put the pot back on heat, medium to low, add your vegetables. Stirring to soften, about 8 to 10 minutes. Slowing add your water or chicken stock, stirring. Then add the salt, pepper, red pepper, bay leaves, and sauce. Bring to a low rolling boil. Add your chicken. Keep the pot at a slow slimmer as the chicken cooks. While this is simmering, start a pot of rice and about 3 to 4 hours your Gumbo is ready!
What would Mardi Gras be without a drink and since one of my little dealings was all about Katrina, I think a Hurricane is just what we're looking for!

Ingredients
1 ounce lemon juice
4 ounces of dark rum
4 ounces of red passion fruit cocktail mix
crushed ice
orange and cherry for garnish
Mixing Instructions
Pour lemon juice, rum and cocktail mix into a cocktail shaker. Shake vigorously 1-2 minutes. Pack crushed ice into a 10 ounce highball glass. Pour drink mixture over crushed ice. Garnish with orange and cherry.



So, I'm chillin' until next week. If you're part of my challenge, be sure to log the chapters you've reviewed for the Million Word Reading Challenge (I've been challenged to write a Carlisle Fic and I'm thinking I'm about half way through, we'll see.), Tweet (FanFicDealer), Message me on Facebook, or email (fanficdealer@gmail.com) if you want to talk shop.

The deal has been made. ;)

Friday, February 25, 2011

Los Angeles Convention Information ~Summer

TWILIGHT SAGA OFFICIAL CONVENTION TOUR
RETURNS TO LOS ANGELES
The Official Twilight Saga Convention Tour is coming back to LA for our annual visit on March 4-6, 2011 and we're rolling out the red carpet for you to make the scene and be with us for non-stop entertainment highlighted by the on-stage appearances of SEVEN Twilight celebrities as follows:

PETER FACINELLI: Dr. Carlisle Cullen
GIL BIRMINGHAM: Billy Black
BRONSON PELLETIER: The Wolf Pack's Jared
TINSEL KOREY: Emily
JULIA JONES: Leah Clearwater
BOOBOO STEWART: Seth Clearwater
and
JODELLE FERLAND: Bree Tanner

Also on tap for the weekend are events including The Friday Night Karaoke Concert hosted by Tinsel and Julia, The Volturi Vampire Ball with six guests on hand, The Sunday Morning Celebrity Brunch and Charity Auction, exclusive fan panels from Twilight Lexicon and TwilightMOMS, The Costume and Trivia Competitions, Auctions, Music, Videos and much more! Your hosts for the weekend are the delightful and talented Hillywood Show Cast!

Click on through to www.twilightconvention.com for complete details!

::Team Twilight:: Fan Fiction Friday



I might have something you want. I might have something you need. It might be something legal or it might be something criminal. But the one thing I can tell you for sure is that the feds can’t have it and Lab Tech Andi will work hard to keep plenty on hand for you. Walk carefully to the blue door at the back of the shack; make sure you’re not being tailed by the law, knock the tune from Fall Out Boy called “This Ain’t a Scene, It’s an Arms Race” and give the password “FBI”

~*~*~*~*~*~*~

I looked up from my desk and glanced around the room. The lights in the lab were dim and the screens from the laptops the authors were using glowed around the room like tiny beacons of life. I could clearly see four bright rectangles shine back at me.

Thinking that a little soft music might be nice, I walked to the sound system and scrolled to a playlist that Edward and Renesmee had setup for me and pushed play. Behind me I heard a squeak and when I turned around I saw only three screens.

Figuring one of them simply got up to take a break; I walked back to my desk, picked up some files and turned toward the file cabinets. As I opened the drawer, I heard a muffled squeak behind me and when I turned around I saw only two screens.

Hmmm… I thought

“Hey guys?” I asked “Do you know where the other two went?”

“Nope,” I heard one of them answer.

“I didn’t see,” I heard from the other.

“Ok, I’m going to go check the bathroom. Can you guys stay here?” I said walking over to the bathroom. I opened the door and peered inside, “Anyone in here?” I asked into the obviously empty bathroom. I turned out the light and walked back into the lab only to find it as equally empty.

“Hey! I thought I said to stay here,” I yelled at no one. “Where is everyone?” Then the door flew open and Alice, Jasper, Emmett, and Edward came flying through the door.

“Andi! We need to get you out of here!” Alice said rushing over to me.

“Why? What’s going on?” I asked her slightly panicked now. “Did the Volturi find out about the Shack? Did other vampires get my authors?!?!”

“NO! No! No. Andi, calm down. It’s nothing that dangerous, but we do need to get you out of here now.” Alice said.

“Then tell me what’s going on! And where are my authors?”

“The authors are fine.” She explained. “Carlisle, Esme, Bella, and Rosalie have them and they are taking them somewhere safe. You’re going to go with Emmett and he’ll take you to where they are. It’s too dangerous to drive out of here, so you’ll have to ride on Emmett’s back. It’s not the Volturi who are coming, it’s the FBI.”

“Umm… We’re doing all this running from the FBI? Seriously? What do we have to hide?” I questioned as Alice began to push me toward Emmett and I started to giggle.

“Andi, we don’t have time for this! Somebody thought your twitter name was code for dealing something illegal and they called the feds. I saw that if they see the lab the way it’s setup they’ll hold you and we can’t have that. So you need to GO, NOW!”

“Come on,” Emmett held out his hand and then turned around so I could hop on his back. “Hold on tight, I wouldn’t want you to fall.”

With my arms tight around his neck and my legs wrapped around his waist, he dashed out the door. As we ran, I was curious, so I thought I’d ask, “So what are they going to do to the lab?”

“They’re going to hide the lab stuff and Alice and Jasper are going to pretend to live there. Charlie tried to stop the investigation, but they didn’t believe him.” Emmett responded without even sounding winded. He only carried me for a few more minutes before I heard the helicopters in the distance and I clung to him just a little tighter.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~

While, I hid from the feds, I wondered about what they could possibly think we were dealing out in the middle of the woods. So all my dealing this week are files of the FBI kind.

My first criminal case file was found under the title “Here We Go Again” by butterflybetty. Bella Swan has never had an easy life. As a genius with a photographic memory, she managed to graduate high school at the age of 14 and got a masters degree from NYU in criminal justice and criminal psychology at merely 18. She started her career as an officer in the special victims unit at 19, but after seven years on the force and a very traumatic personal case she’s looking for a new start. So, she’s starting a new job with the FBI in Seattle and she thinks that the worst thing about starting over is that having to prove to the boys that she belongs. However, there is something evil lurking in her past that she thought was finally behind her but is in fact more tied to her than she could have ever imagined. This case has so many twists and turns that you’ll have a hard time putting this story down, because you’ll be dying to figure out what will happen next.
http://www.fanfiction.net/s/5690614


My next criminal case file came under the name “Losing Faith” by Twilifed113. Bella Cullen thinks that her husband is a traveling medical supplies salesman, but he spends so much time away, her best friend thinks he might be having an affair. Suddenly, she’s not so sure about her marriage, but upon his return from his latest trip tells her things will change. However, when Edward’s past puts her life in danger the only way to save her will require him revealing the truth about his job. He works for the FBI and has done so since his parents were murdered when he was 18. Now they are on the run, just trying to survive, but Bella doesn’t feel like she knows anything about her husband anymore and Edward’s going to have to use this time to convince her otherwise. At least until the trial that will make them both safe again.
http://www.fanfiction.net/s/6371061


This next smut-filled criminal case, I just couldn’t resist, because I adored the title, “Empty Lab Adventures” by dqwhit19. This is a crossover so subtle that even if you’ve never seem a single episode of Bones, you’ll never notice. Dr. Bella Swan is a famous and uber intelligent forensic anthropologist who honestly finds the dead more fascinating than the living; well maybe not all of the living. Edward Cullen is her FBI agent partner who has secretly lusted after her for ages. So, when Bella’s the only one working in the lab while everyone else is at a conference, will Edward finally act on all his secret desires? Maybe he’s not the only one with fantasies.
http://www.fanfiction.net/s/4834979


My last criminal case stood out like a beacon because it was all “Scarlet” by archer24. The Scarlet Thief, known only by the scarlet calling card they leave behind, is the most incredible thief the world has never seen and has managed to elude the feds for years. Every agent who’s worked this case until now has been left bewildered as to how he managed to avoid capture. But, FBI agent, Edward Cullen, who has been able to catch every criminal he’s come across, just found out something that no one else has; that The Scarlet Thief not a man, but in reality a very sexy and confident woman. Will she be able to continue to avoid the FBI? Perhaps art and jewels aren’t the only things she’s capable of stealing.

So in the spirit of our escape, I recommend you simply "Run Like Hell"

Ingredients
1 shot Jack Daniel's
1 shot Southern Comfort
1 shot Cola
1 shot Lemonade

Mixing Instructions
Chill Jack and SoCo separately. Pour a shot of each ingredient. Take each shot in this order: Jack, Lemonade, SoCo, Cola.



Assuming I don't get put in the slammer, I'll see you next week. If you're part of my challenge, be sure to log the chapters you've reviewed for the Million Word Reading Challenge (We've already had one person hit a million, how many more can I get?), Tweet (FanFicDealer), Message me on Facebook, or email (fanficdealer@gmail.com) if you want to talk shop.

The deal has been made. ;)

Friday, February 18, 2011

::Team Twilight:: Fan Fiction Friday



Hey, guess what! I have a secret and I’m not gonna tell you. Oh! So, you want to know my secret? Just how bad do you want to know? Ok, maybe I’ll give you a hint, there’s music and dancing. If you want to know more, you’ll have to find the blue door behind the love shack, knock the tune of “Celebration” by Kool and the Gang and give the password “Ashley”. Be Safe!

~*~*~*~*~*~*~

The soft rhythmic click, click, click of the keys melded harmoniously with the melodic music that flowed through the lab lulling my overactive mind. The Cullen’s were all still away on their romantic getaways so the authors were busy bringing them alive in their words. In fact, there were so many stories sitting on my desk, I wasn’t sure what direction to go.

My eyes grew heavy with the hypnotic tune coupled with the words that were streaming before me sending my thoughts into another plane of consciousness. I could feel my head drift forward, but before my head could hit the desk, my phone rang.

Jerked awake, I grabbed my phone to see Alice’s picture flash on my screen. “Hey, Alice! How’s Italy?” I asked trying to shake the exhaustion from my voice.

“Oh my, you would not believe the designers I’ve seen! The Bottega Veneta handbags I found are just to die for!” She answered excitedly.

“That’s great!” I said stretching, trying to wake myself up. “So, what’s up?”

“Andi, have you looked at your calendar? I know you’ve been having a hard time deciding what stories to pick out for this week, but I know if you look at your calendar that fog will clear up.”

“Ok, did you put something on my calendar?” I said, giggling into the phone and pulled up my planner.

“No, silly! You did, you’ve just forgotten and I’m simply here to remind you.”

I scan my eyes over the little squares for each day, trying to find the hint I apparently left myself and then I see it, blazing in bright red, “Oh my God! It’s Ashley Greene’s birthday on Monday, how could I have forgotten!”

“Exactly, so I’m going to get back to shopping and you can thank me later. Maybe I’ll send her one of these amazing handbags.” Alice said right before I heard the line disconnect.

Quickly, I grabbed the remote for the stereo and turned on some dance music. “Ok ladies, in the spirit of Alice, I’m declaring it party time.” And the authors and I danced away while I hunted down stories befitting our favorite party girl on her birthday.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~

To honor the birthday of Ms. Ashley Greene, all the tales I’m offering up this week feature out favorite future telling vampire, Alice. I hope you enjoy them.

My first tale holds a plot twist on the original story, appropriately titled “Redemption” by Lillie Cullen. James and Alice share a past that she might not be able to remember, but James hasn’t been able to forget. Even when he was turned and his human memories should have faded, only his memories of Alice have remained. All he ever wanted to do was protect her, but he failed and when she opened her new eyes, she ran from him screaming. So, just what does their past hold? Will he ever be able to mend his evil ways and find redemption? This is actually a very beautifully written story that you won’t regret reading and a James you might even fall for.
http://www.fanfiction.net/s/4780450


My next tale is an insanely hot collaboration titled “One More Shot” by calin-durus and kirmit. It may have been all the shots that convinced her to go home with him. It might be the more than the fact that he doesn’t know her name and still he can’t get her out of his mind. Never in their lives has a one night stand ever been this unforgettable, but for Alice and Jasper this is was more than just a one night stand. There is something drawing them together and what they thought was the first time may not really be true. This story is hot in all the right places and who in their right minds can avoid Jasper as a musician. That in itself is worth a read.
http://www.fanfiction.net/s/4900904
http://www.fanfiction.net/s/4900903

My last tale is a continuation of sorts called “Tropic of Gemini” by In.a.blue.bathrobe. Ever wonder what happened to the band, “Breaking Dawn” on their European tour? Well, there’s more to this story and even though Alice is really growing as a performer in the band and not just a manager, there are other temptations threatening to pull them apart. Will old demons surface and attempt to exact their revenge? Will they be able to resist?
http://m.fanfiction.net/s/5512292


Because this is a party, I think we should have something fun like a “Lemon Celebration”

Ingredients
3 oz. Champagne
1 oz. Liqueur, raspberry
1 oz. Rum, lemon

Mixing Instructions
Shake ingredients in a cocktail shaker with ice. Strain into a cocktail glass.



Until next week, when my Cullen’s will come back to me. If you're part of my challenge, be sure to log the chapters you've reviewed for the Million Word Reading Challenge, Tweet (FanFicDealer), Message me on Facebook, or email (fanficdealer@gmail.com) if you want to talk shop.

The deal has been made. ;)

Friday, February 11, 2011

::Team Twilight:: Fan Fiction Friday



Go tell your husband, boyfriend, or significant other that you’ve found somebody new. Lab Tech Andi is kidnapping you for Valentine’s Day and holding your captive with these exotic little fics that promise something just slightly out of the ordinary. So, when you find yourself standing in front of a blue door without knowing how or when you got there, knock the lively beat of “I Do” by Colbie Caillat and the password is “Mon Coeur”. Be Safe!

~*~*~*~*~*~*~

“Wow! What a game!” I said to Esme as I carried an arm full of dishes to the dishwasher. “That was incredible! It’s too bad that no one actually scored though.” She took the dishes from me and loaded them into the machine.

It was the day of the big football game, the Quileute pack versus the Cullen Clan. The afternoon was blocked out for our game and then later Charlie, Billy, and a few other human friends were coming to the Cullen’s house to watch the Super Bowl on the their ridiculously huge flat screen. So everyone had gathered in the clearing, and thankfully Renesmee was sitting beside me filling me in on the details. They were all moving so fast, it was hard for my human eyes to take it all in. They’d been tossing that football around for four hours and just when the Cullen’s were about to claim the first touchdown, Paul phased, catching the ball with his teeth and popping it as he bit down, ending the game.

“If I could have seen that he’d do that, I would have brought extra balls.” Alice chimed in as she also carried in a load of dirty dishes, a slight frown on her face.

“Well, that’s something to note for next time.” I smiled as I walked passed her and back out into the dining room where Bella was dashing around the room picking up paper plates and cups. “With Valentine’s Day coming on a Monday this year, what sort of plans does everybody have?” I inquired out of curiosity.

“Edward and I are taking Nessie and Jake down to the Amazons.” Bella answered tying up the bag she had. “Zafrina’s been bugging us forever to bring Nessie, so we thought it would be good and Edward and I can get in some alone time while she occupied.” Bella wore a smug little smile and I was just sure she had other plans, but I didn’t even want to ask.

“Jasper’s taking me to Italy to visit some of those designer stores we saw the last time we were there.” Alice declared dancing around the room moving furniture back into place as she passed. “I’ve been dying to go back ever since, but it wasn’t until now, it seemed safe to venture there.”

“Where are you and Carlisle going, Esme?” I asked turning my head back toward the kitchen. I heard her start up the dishwasher and walked at human speed to join us.

“Isle Esme, of course!” and we all giggled.

“Well, I bet Emmett got some big romantic plans up his sleeves.” I stated to no one in particular.

“Actually,” Rosalie announced from the doorway, “Emmett and I are headed to Chicago for the Chicago Car Show.”

“Really?” I ask a little surprised. “How’d he talk you into that one?”

“It was my idea,” she shrugged. “I’d much rather look at all those beautiful machines then clothes any day.” She responded and Alice stuck out her tongue at Rose.

As Bella tied up another bag of trash, she said, “You know, it’s good that we all have somebody, but I still feel sort of sad for Leah.”

“Okay, that was random,” I said back.

“No, let me explain.” Then she sat in one of the chairs before she spoke again. “While we were playing today, I noticed how hard she attacked Sam. I was like she was looking to get even. Maybe, she would feel better balanced if she had someone in her life.”

“Hmm… I think you’re onto something there.” I nodded. “So, if you were going to try to find anyone a mate, who are the people you think need them the most?”

“Oh, Jane for sure!” Alice added, “Although if her mate was as equally dangerous and evil they might take down the Volturi. Aro would not be happy with that outcome.”

I laughed, “Ok, who else?”

“I think Mike,” Bella said, thoughtful.

“Mike Newton?” I questioned. “Well, he’s human and we could just put him up on Match.com, but isn’t he still dating Jessica?”

“I don’t think so.” Esme said. “They broke up when they both went away to college.” I cocked my head a little and looked at Esme; she shrugged. “What? I hear things. This is a very small town.”

I shook my head. “You know, most of the time, the stories I deal out on Friday are all about you guys. What if give this Friday to non-Cullen centric stories?”

“That’s a great idea!” Alice exclaimed with everyone else nodding their agreement.

“Okay, then I’m off to the lab to see what I can dig up, unless you need me for anything?” I asked standing.

“Andi, we’ve got this covered. You’re too slow to be useful anyway; go do your thing,” Rose said as she pushed me towards the door.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~

So, that was that, and just for Valentine’s Day we’re giving the Cullen’s a little bit of a break while we meddle in the lives of other characters. I hope you, enjoy!

My first valentine goes out to Jane in a little known tale called “Broken Dolls” by hopeforastalemate. After the Volturi return to Italy, Jane, who has always had her brother at her side, manages to find herself alone for the first time in her very long life when Alec gets mated. Without her brother around, Jane is temperamental and hard to get along with, burning anyone who looks at her the wrong way. Finally, Aro’s had enough and makes the suggestion that Jane start looking for a mate of her own, even if she has to go human to find one. But things get complicated when the person she chooses actually has some ties to the Volturi and has an even stronger personality than Jane. Who would have ever guessed that? This is a very sweet story and amazingly makes the Volturi a much softer and likable cast of characters, instead of the villains they’re usually made out to be. Don’t be surprised when you find yourself pulling for the vamps you’re so used to hating.
http://www.fanfiction.net/s/5938172


My next valentine is for Leah, inside this amazing creative titled “Rising Star” by HopeReborn. Things have settled down since the standoff in the cleaning and everybody’s moved on. Charlie’s officially in a relationship with Sue; Leah’s going to school and studying to be a nurse at the hospital with Carlisle; Seth spends his time with Bella and Alice getting tutored in math. Life has returned to normal that is until someone new, with an incredible number of powers, moves to Forks turning everyone’s lives upside down and unknowingly bring something potentially more dangerous with him. Will joining all the supernatural powers existing in Forks be powerful enough to fight this evil? And just what do the Quileute legends have to do with all this? This is one tale that will have you on the edge of your seat just waiting to find out what’s going to happen next. As a bonus, this little tale has an equally hot lemony outtake called “Clash of Worlds” and because it’s the valentine season, this is one you certainly don’t want to miss.
http://www.fanfiction.net/s/5772429

The last valentine I found is for Mike and Tanya in a fun and adventurous tale called “Life and Death with the Original Succubus” by April Rane. Between the Cullen’s and the Denali’s, everyone has found their perfect match, for heaven sakes even Nessie has a mate, except Tanya. She’s alone and spending time with so many couples is annoying. All she wants is some peace and quiet, so when Bella and Edward offer to take her with them to Forks with an opportunity to escape everyone else’s intimate relations, she jumps at the chance. For reasons that are unexplained, she finds herself attracted to the one person who annoys Edward worse than Jacob ever did. Mike Newton, on the other hand, is involved in a passionless relationship, engaged to Jessica Stanley, but ever since Tanya walked into his parents sporting goods store he craves something more exciting. Will this be exactly what the other has been looking for? You’ll have to pick up this little fic just to see how the Cullen’s take the news about Mike.
http://www.fanfiction.net/s/6177843

So just for the occasion, I’ve concocted another delightful cocktail that I’ve dubbed a “Cullentine”
Ingredients
2oz Apple liqueur
1oz Vodka
3oz Cranberry Juice
Ice Cubes

Mixing instructions
Shake ingredients with ice then strain into a wine glass.



Here's hoping everyone has a Sparkly Valentine's Day! If you're part of my challenge, be sure to log the chapters you've reviewed for the Million Word Reading Challenge, Tweet (FanFicDealer), Message me on Facebook, or email (fanficdealer@gmail.com) if you want to talk shop.

The deal has been made. ;)

Friday, February 4, 2011

::Team Twilight:: Fan Fiction Friday



So, what do you have planned for Sunday? Are you really planning to watch the game or just tune in for the half time show? If you’re not into football or watching commercials then I know Lab Tech Andi has an alternative and the Cullen boys are more than ready to keep you entertained. All you need to do is knock the tune of “The Super Bowl Shuffle” and give the password “Football”. Be Safe!

~*~*~*~*~*~*~

I was still a mile or two from the shack when I noticed how stormy it was getting. I could hear the thunder boom in quick succession and figured I really needed to hurry so that I wouldn’t get caught in any rain. As soon as I pulled up to the lab door, I saw it before I even got out of my car, stuck to the door was a bright red envelope that said “Andi” written in Edward’s beautiful handwriting:



Now if I said that I even paused for a moment, I would be lying. Give me the opportunity to blow off work and gawk at hunky men and I’m so there! I quickly shoved the note in my pocket and revved the engine of my car. Five minutes later, I was standing at the edge of the clearing beside Alice. Gazing out at the group on the field, I was not at all surprised to see Carlisle, Emmett, Jasper, and Edward, but when I also saw Rosalie, Bella, Jacob, Seth, Leah, Quil, and Embry I was a little more than shocked.

“Umm… Alice? What are the wolves doing here?” I asked her, but instead of Alice answering my question, Renesmee took my hand to show me.

“Hey man, the pack in La Push wants to challenge us to a football game on Sunday.” Jacob was telling Edward.

“Honestly Jacob, I doubt they want to play football with us; your pack, maybe, but not the vampires.” Edward responded.

“But there aren’t enough of us,” Seth whined and Edward rolled his eyes. It was obvious Edward was seeing more in their minds than what was actually being said.

“Fine, get the word to Sam that we’re on. I’ll get a time from Alice and we play before the Super Bowl. Then everybody can come to the house and watch the game on the big screen.”

I saw Seth pump his fist and then the image faded.

“Oh, ok then.” Renesmee smiled up at me and Alice turned her head to me.

“I’m getting better about seeing around the wolves, so they won’t let me play, but Bella and Rose refused to be left out of the game.” She said and I could tell she was somewhat annoyed about being left out.

“The whole Super Bowl must be pretty boring for you anyway; I bet you already know who wins.”

“Actually, I can only give you a probability of the outcome, since there are too many people making decisions.”

“Yeah, that’s why you predicted 2008 wrong, right?” Emmett yelled from the field.

“Emmett, Rose will pummel you if you continue to pick on me. Any you sure you want to test my predication on that?” she yelled back at him.

“Nope, that’s okay. Carry on.” He answered and returned his focus to the game. I just giggled.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~

So thinking about the Super Bowl, I wondered if my authors would have the Cullen boys go all the way. *wink* *wink* I think we’ll keep our minds on the game or at least make an effort with all these dealings that have the NFL written all over them.

My first touchdown came in the form of a brilliant one-shot titled "Football Widow" by Ms.MayCullen23. Its football season and just like any other woman, Rosalie is widowed every weekend and even on Mondays by a husband who's deeply involved in a seasonal affair. However, Rose has had enough and sets in motion her own Hail Mary pass to regain her husband's attention. Will Rose's plan result in a play of the day or will she fumble? Pay close attention and even the most seasoned football widow may learn a trick or two.
http://www.fanfiction.net/s/6265801


Next, the team made a long distance pass with this beautiful fic titled "Reservations" by EmmaleeWrites05. By some wacky coincidence, Alice just happens to know the answer to a radio trivia question, thereby winning two tickets to see the Bears battle the Seahawks. They know they won't be able to stay for the whole game, but how can any girl miss the opportunity to ogle men in tight pants. So while they're working at the desk of a fancy hotel in downtown Seattle, imagine Bella's surprise when she ended up checking in the very same man in tight pants she had been ogling all afternoon. Once Emmett Cullen gets one good look at this girl who is checking him in, he just knows he has to spend more time with her; asking her to the after game party, then on a date, and then he's gone with the team. Is one date enough to fan the flames of a long distance relationship? You'll have to read to find out.


Next, my team scored in this roller coaster tale called "Right Before My Eyes" by lovedforeternity. Bella Swan is an ambitious, smart, and funny sports agent. She's quite aware that being a female in this line of work puts her at a disadvantage, so she worked hard and blew everybody away when she managed to land Edward Cullen as a client. She was over the moon when he agreed to sign on with her, of course that was several years ago; now his out-of-control behavior is about to ruin her. Edward knows his personal life is destroying everything he cares about. Well, he be able to fix it in time or is it too late?
http://www.fanfiction.net/s/5467999


My next goal in the game came in a little known tale called "First and Ten "by Ms. T. Switzerland. Edward Cullen is the best quarterback in the league and he knows it. Coming out of college, he had pick of teams, but Edward knew he didn't want to be anywhere but Dallas. Edward is also quite aware that because of his position that he can have any woman he wanted, but there are things about his sexual nature that keep him from choosing to be with just anyone. Edward has a dominate side that's been seeking out a perfect submissive. He's been trying to lock away that desire for a while until he meets the daughter of the new team security guard. She seems so sweet and innocent and he really doesn't want to frighten her off, but she knows more about him than she's letting on. She has a few dark desires of her own that she knows only Edward can fulfill. Is he up to the task?
http://www.fanfiction.net/s/6172718


Finally, we managed to get some new blood in this fearless tale titled “The Sports Agent” by LauraAnn22. Edward Cullen was only is his second season when his agent got him traded instead of getting him more money like he asked. Getting traded sucked and although he knows he’d still be moving all the way across the country, there was no way Edward was going to put up a lazy agent. Edward knew what he wanted and he needed representation that could satisfy his needs. Of course, this is how he met Bella Swan, no non-sense, full of spit and fire; she had not tolerance for stupidity. She was already the agent for two of his new teammates and she was exactly what he was looking for. In the words of Edward Cullen, “She was so beautiful, witty, and sexy. I really had to get my shit together or that girl was going to own my ass.” This Bella is no push-over, which is incredibly refreshing from the usual persona. I just know you’ll love her.
http://www.fanfiction.net/s/5685496


Now to go along with all these fics, I think we need something that you can make in abundance. That way if everyone else in your house is watching the game and you’re reading, they can help themselves without bothering you. So I give to you my “Super Easy Chili”:

1 lbs. Ground Beef
2 15oz cans of Chili Beans
1 can stewed tomatoes
1 15oz can tomatoes sauce
12oz V8 Juice
1 tbsp Chopped Onion
8oz Mild Taco Sauce
1/2 cup Water

Brown ground beef in a 2 quart saucepan. Drain well, then add remaining ingredients. Simmer on low heat for at least 30 minutes.



Don't forget to log the chapters you've reviewed for the Million Word Reading Challenge, Tweet (FanFicDealer), Message me on Facebook, or email (fanficdealer@gmail.com) if you want to talk shop.

The deal has been made. ;)

Sunday, January 30, 2011

::Team Fan Fiction:: It's Official! 2011 Million Word Read & Review Fan Fiction Challenge

"The act of writing is an act of optimism. You would not take the trouble to do it if you felt that it didn't matter."
~Edward Albee


Hello and Welcome! I'm so glad you've found or maybe stumbled into this little Fan Fiction Reading Challenge! Reading is important, whether it's published literature or self published fan fiction. By reading, we learn about ourselves, about others, and expand our vision of the world around us. The power of words is incredible and they inspire each of us in different ways making us both the teacher and the student within our small space in the universe.

For 2011, I saw that GoodReads.com is encouraging people to read by creating a book reading challenge and I know several people who have decided to take that on. However, in the world of fan fiction, stories aren't published in the same way; they're published a single chapter at a time, which makes it difficult to keep track of how many stories you've read. Not to mention that the currency of the fandom is valued in feedback, not money. So, this is what I decided to take on, create a reading challenge that would reward the reader as well as the writer, thus my challenge was born.

Now, unlike the Goodreads challenge, I'm not letting you pick your goal. It's a million words, plain and simple, just because I liked the number. Based on the addicts that visit my blog posting on Fridays, a million words isn't even a challenge, so it makes me wonder just how fast can you get to a million? Hmmm... we shall see. ;)

The rules as pretty much the same as I stated once before, but now here's the link to challenge on FF.Net: http://www.fanfiction.net/s/6699302

So, are you ready to take me on? I hope so. I think this will be fun and I'm looking forward to seeing who joins me.

Now go READ! ;)