Where in the World is...Gemin?

The Where In the World segment was Tina's brain child. It was created NOT to push or whine at authors of stories that haven't updated or have fallen by the wayside, it was created to say, "Hey, I - or we - love your fic and we were hoping and wondering if you ever have plans to continue?" I guess one would say it's a tool for encouraging authors to finish stories. I like to look at it as also a way I can get the word out on a fic I love. And Fall Back Again SHOULD be loved! This entire post is a long shot, but still, I'll read this story every now and then and imagine my own ending. It's just that good for me.

Why? Because it's simply unique. It's also been around now since September of 2008, when Gemin first started publishing this wonderful story. It tells the tale of a different Twilight, one where our Jasper comes from a slightly different background and who has lost the love of his life, Vera. Alice in this story is just where she needs to be, and that's on the other leading man's arm.

What I love so much about this story is it's just GOOD. It's mature, and there's a poetic nature to the author's writing. Gemin paints a very vivid picture of a tortured and broken Jasper. I simply love the way he broods, and I love the way Bella accepts her faults, points them out, and doesn't try to pretend to be anything she isn't. She is strong and very likable in this fic.

Um...er...there's also one of the hottest neck licking scenes I have EVER read. 'Nuff said.

So, the last time Fall Back Again updated was in January of 2009. I have to be honest and say I don't expect this story ever to update, but I would LOVE to be proven wrong. Either way, it's still 18 chapters long, and it should get some love because hey, this is exactly how I love to see my Jasper. I have a feeling quite a few of you will love it, too.

**On a side note, if any of our readers have a story they would like to see featured for this segment and would be interested in writing the post for the story, please contact us. There's no set criteria other than it should be a story by an author that falls into the character month (preferably), it has NOT been featured on WITW before, and it's been a while since the story has updated. Um...a month won't work. Don't go there.**

Where in the World is... Zaytyll?

Where in the world is... Zaytyll?

Has anyone seen Zaytyll, the awesome writer of Unfathomable Bonds? You know, that story with the hottest Volturi characters I’ve ever read? Anybody know of her whereabouts? Anyone?

Bueller?

Oh wait, we do!

See, Zaytyll is famously known as Maelyn. She’s our GothLamb. And if you look at our Petting Zoo... oh, there she is! The 'quiet' one of the Lambs, her favourite pastime is role-playing. So somewhere out there, her rp character’s probably busy canoodling with Marcus Volturi. Oh, and she also has this weird obsession with sock puppets.

Dude... IdreamofEddy’s four chapters ahead of you! That’s one hella big deal if you think about it. I mean, she’s also way ahead of my own updates, but we’re not talking about me here... teeheehee

I know I sound harsh, but I just love your story THIS much (you may not see this, but I’m stretching my arms as far as I can). Your Jasper tease in the beginning - I can’t get that image out of my head. Don’t even get me started on Demetri and Felix. You, my friend, own the Volturi.

*gchat pings* Uno momento, por favor...

*ten minutes later*

Um... I made the wrong post, so disregard that *points to the beginning of the post*. I promised the Lambs that I’m gonna be nice to you the rest of the post. So, here, to make up for the rant...

Personalize funny videos and birthday eCards at JibJab!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, MAE!!!




We mostly love you because you're MiniMaj's aunt!

Personalize funny videos and birthday eCards at JibJab!

P.S.

You’re also one amazing friend.

I'm very honored that I was trusted to make this post for you, and I hope I did some justice to it.

As always, the other Lambs would like to say a few words:

From MamaLamb:

38383838383838383838383838383838383838383838383838383838383838383838.


Seems like yesterday I used to chat with you over on Twilighted first, and then Twitter later on. I liked you - you were a slight shade of normal when we first started chatting.

Pfft.

Now I just love you. You've always been honest with me, you've never been afraid to share your opinion. I'm sure I've pissed you off a time or two, but you've always stuck by me. Supported me. Treated me with respect. Helped me understand RP a little better, when it was the only outlet I could really function with. Listen to my ideas, and motivated me with your words. I miss your writing because I've always loved it, and I hope you still do plan to continue on at some point. You're killer at everything you do, whether it's write, RP, review, rec, everything. You're thorough and you're a delight, and one of the finest people in this community.

And you're old. Welcome to 38!

But we all just get better with time. :)

I wish you nothing but the best, and I hope your birthday was just as memorable as mine.

Love,
Kaylene

From LambPretzel:

Dear Mae,

I hope you have a great birthday! I hope it's filled with fuckery, fun, love, laughter - and maybe Amanda will surprise you with a story hint and then run away cackling to her corner while you stomp your foot at her and say, "I told you I don't want details!"

I'm so happy that I've gotten to know you by working on this blog together and I'm giggling at the fact that Maj has made a WITW out of you! You knew it was going to happen sooner or later, right? But that's all a part of the Lamb joy...

So make a wish and blow out your candles - I hope all your birthday wishes come true :)

Tina xxx



From LambWhale:

Happy Birthday Mae! You're a great lambsister, and I'm enjoying the fuckery we've gotten up to so far! I'm sure there'll be plenty more of it in our future, even if you are getting old...because you're never too old to cause chaos in the world around you.

Donna's at quite a loss for words at the moment, so she would like to greet you with a happy birthday in whale speak:



LambBaton's very busy with... baton twirling, but she'd like to leave you this message:

And last but certainly not the least, from a little something from LambKitty:

Lucy's out of commission right now, so here's a birthday greeting from her in geek-speak:

Personalize funny videos and birthday eCards at JibJab!

I can already imagine Mae's reaction to this post:

ExploitingReality Update, Part 2!

So, I've been sick. And busy. Yeah, c'mon. You can say it.

blah blah blah, Tina!

But being sick and busy also makes you want to take a lot of breaks too.

On one personal recent break, I decided to peruse my Story Alert section on FFn, and I literally gasped, had a coughing fit, and almost fell off the couch whilst having said coughing fit... But I held onto my coffee table with one grubby paw just so I could stare some more at the beautiful sight before me.

Then I cursed FFn for #MAJORNOTIFICATIONFAIL.

Why?

BECAUSE! ExploitingReality updated Sweet Catastrophe! I mean, she said she was going to go back to it in her update to us...but Lord-Tunderin'-Jesus!

I am so excited about this update!

So, if any of you have not had the chance to read this fic (it's only at 3 chapters now, for goodness' sake), go! Scamper! Vite, vite!

What's three chapters of your life?

And be sure to review, if you feel so inclined. She'll appreciate it, I'm sure.

Where In The World is...crysta656?

Okay, well...first of all, our featured author on Where In The World this week is not lost... or missing... or presumed to have lost interest, or anything like that. She's dedicated to this fandom, and more importantly, she's dedicated to Fanfiction. I'm doing something just a little bit different this week with WITW because, frankly, a little recognition is due.

crysta656 wrote this little story called The Passage of Time. It was one of the first lengthy Jasper/Bella stories to ever grace our world, but what was even more significant was the originality of how the plot was carried out. Instead of the more common 'five years after Edward left Bella in the woods...', you have 'He was gone, leaving her changed and alone. All that remained was a broken dream and a shattered heart.' So, to say this story is original is an understatement. Edward leaves Bella because she is stronger, she has forever lost the human qualities that attracted him to her, and she turns into a pig when she eats.

Anyways, this story rocked my world back in the day. I remember waiting very impatiently for the last chapter when I started CM, and I remember how excited I was when she updated the story with a note to say she was planning a sequel. I also remember saying, 'say what?' when I read that it was going to be a...Edward/Vera story.

In The Passage of Time, we learn towards the end that Rosalie would become the mother of Vera, a granddaughter of Rosalie's best friend, Vera, from the days when she was still human. Okay, so crysta656 most likely surprised a few of her readers with this, but it was an ending to the story that could be appreciated, knowing Rose would become a mother to a girl who had lost her parents in a car accident, and Jasper and Bella would live happily ever after. *Sigh. I thought it was a great ending.*

The sequel, Second Chances, tells Vera's story, and how she unravels the mystery that surrounds the enigmatic Edward Cullen - her uncle, classmate, and a her very own personal and very annoying mind reader. She's drawn to him and infatuated with him, but Edward, of course, admonishes her impure thoughts and treats her like a child - which she is. But she is growing into her own and finding her own way. Though the story is not in his POV, you can see that he is clearly struggling with his own thoughts about Vera. He cares for her and, deep down, he wants her. If you read The Passage Of Time, you know that Edward's *crazy* comes out when the person he loves the most finds love and the ability to move on, leaving him perpetually frozen because he just can't find it within himself to move on and find his own happiness. It also doesn't help that Vera's parents and family are dead set against the idea of Vera and Edward being together, most likely fearing that they will all have to relive the past.

Second Chances is the reason I'm doing this WITW. Frankly, I love where it's going, and I appreciate how Crystal tells her stories. Her writing is mature, concise, beautiful, and somewhat...controversial? With each chapter of her stories, she takes her readers where they least expect to be taken, and when we all think there's an issue that needs to be explored, she moves on, and in doing so, her characters grow, relationships blossom, and that's that. She clearly writes her stories the way she wants to, and not the way her readers want her to.

She has pointed out in her A/Ns, however, that she's struggled with this story and where it is leading. Also, one thing that does need to be considered is that this is another character story, and, frankly, they are more difficult to sell to a...picky fandom. Some have tried, and some have failed, in fact. But these stories accentuate the fandom because of their originality, while still retaining the qualities of the original series.

Crystal last updated this story on May 7, 2009. Since then, she's been actively writing fan-fiction for the Harry Potter series and two other Bella/Jasper stories, Saved and Revealing Eternity. Saved was just updated this past week. While I haven't read Revealing Eternity yet, I'm a big Saved fan, and I was happy to see her update it. I, however, am really hoping that she'll someday decide to continue Second Chances because I love Edward's *crazy*, I adore and respect Vera, and I appreciate Crystal's ability to tell an amazing and mature story. Crystal, if Second Chances has 'gone the way of the dodo bird', as Tina so eloquently likes to put it, I appreciate the fact that you put it out there to begin with.

crysta656 will also be featured as one of our Monday Meet and Greet authors in the weeks to come. Stay tuned!

Where In The World is...Chocolua???

Where in the world is Tina? Well, right now she's sitting at home, working her beta magic on forty pages of an incomplete craptastic chapter for me. Truth is, she's been doing enough lately, so yeah...the girl needs a break.

So, let's talk Uninvited.

This story immediately won the love of Bella/Jasper fans everywhere. If they found it. If they read it. How couldn't it win over its readers? The concept is completely original for a Jasper/Bella tale. Take one Bella, after Edward and the Cullens leave her, and turn her into a forest ranger, of all things. Have her best friend do the same while he protects her, and throw them both up in Denali. Give her attitude, give her some imaginary balls, keep her vulnerability in the shadows, and then throw one hot ass son of a bitch by the name of Jasper into the mix. What does this get you? A GREAT STORY.

Why is it so great? Well, besides all of the above, the author gives these characters some substance. Bella and Jasper are both bitter, and neither of them hold the other in such high regard at first. While Bella doesn't want to have anything to do with the Cullens - or Edward, for that matter - she, of course, still can't help but think about them. Or him. Memories and pain better left forgotten and dealt with resurface, and she's angry. She's also protective of her best friend. She thinks Jasper's an unimaginable bastard. And she thinks he has a nice ass. Then you have Jasper, who thinks Bella is the catalyst that sent his own life downhill. Alice threw him out after she saw him in a vision with a human girl, when things were already strained because of his behavior at Bella's birthday - which was five years prior. He hates Bella. And he thinks she's beautiful. He wants to set her hair on fire.

The tension, the animosity, and the raw emotions when laid to bare are all what make this story great. I love it. I think a few of my Lambs love it, too.

So, where in the world is Chocolua?

Here are the stats: Uninvited was first published on May 2, 2009. The last update was on November 30, 2009. Here's the last Author's Note, which was at the top of the last chapter:

Hi, Everyone! So sorry for the delay, but I have three chapters ready to go in rapid succession! Thanks to all of you who keep asking for updates, and to you who love and support this story!

I think the majority of us who read this story and saw that author's note squee'd with delight. So we waited. And we waited. And then we waited some more.

I think we're now to the point where we have to ask, "Chocolua, where in the world are you?"

Life's a bitch. It gets in the way of having fun. We've all been there. But you should know that your story is loved, and you should know that we'll wait another three or four months if that's how long it's going to be. It simply is unique and wonderful and one of those stories I wait patiently for.

Where In The World Is....Elle365?

M'kay. So, technically Elle365 does not fall within my parameters for Where in the world is... territory - her last update for One Was Too Many and a Thousand Was Never Enough was on December 24, 2009. But, it has been just over two months since we have had the chance to lick the awesomeness that is this story.

The reason why this story stuck out for me - and its author - is because NCChris and I received an email from JamesRamsey asking us if we had ever heard of a story called Second Chances and its one shot precursor, One Drop, by aerialla1, and that if we hadn't that we should read it because she *hearts* it big time (she just found it recently). Second Chances is one of my favourite stories. But JamesRamsey's email made me think... It dawned on me that just because I have read a story with a certain pairing, it doesn't mean that EVERYONE has. I realize that there are new people who join the Fandom every single day. And I also realize that even if you have been around - so-to-speak - like me (within the Jasper/Bella universe), it doesn't mean that everyone has had the chance to read the same stories.

So, I obviously emailed JamesRamsey back, indicating my love for Second Chances... And I then posed a question back to her: Have YOU ever read One Was Too Many and a Thousand Was Never Enough? I confused her at first - she asked me if aerialla1 had taken that story down because she couldn't see it on her profile (huh? I wondered, but then realized my error). After clarifying the issue, it just so happens that James HAS, in fact, been reading OWTMAATWNE - and loves it.

But, I have to wonder WHO hasn't read this fine specimen of a story? I mean, it ONLY has 302 reviews as of this posting. And that - to me - is a complete and utter shame.

I truly love this story. The pacing is fantastic, and you can't help BUT to look forward to the development of Jasper and Bella's relationship over time. Elle365 creates a stronger, more mature Bella in this story than you typically see. And Jasper is all man - and one who likes to drink to drown away his sorrows. They make quite the conflicting and passionate couple. Bella puts Jasper in his place, but he doesn't back down either, even if he doesn't get his way. You have to wonder if Bella and Jasper will ever reach any kind of common ground.

And this is the first story I ever read where Jacob actually hurts Bella (à la Sam and Emily).

It is a dark tale. And it is mature. It is also a mysterious tale. Alice's visions let loose a torrent of possible outcomes, and you can't help but wonder what will actually happen in the future, which only further tortures both her AND Edward, as they are forced to endure these visions of Bella and Jasper while en route to the Volturi, and possible doom.

Elle365 is creative, in that she has crafted a Carlisle who actually has a power - I'm not going to give it away, though.

And it's sad and suspenseful and it lends great fear to the reader - there is one scene early on that will stay in your mind for a LONG TIME.

The writing is simply wonderful.

Apparently, even aerialla1 loves this story - because while scrolling through all of Elle365's reviews, there is a stream of them from aerialla1 (she must have been on a mission that day).

So, we have come full circle.

At one point, Elle365 indicated in an author's note at the end of Chapter 11 that she may have wanted to give the story up.

And, while she is known for sporadic updates, each and every update is worth the wait.

But, I have to ask --> Elle365, how ya doin', babe? You coming back? Those of us who HAVE read your story LOVE it! And we cannot wait for your next update...and the one after that...and the one after that...and the one after THAT *grins mischievously*

And for those of you who have NOT read this story, get to it! Once you read this treasure, you will bookmark it, fave it, alert it, and probably dream of it...as I do with my favourite stories.

NusiainForks Update!

Bonjour mes amies!

I received word from NusiainForks *wink* in response to my Where in the world is... segment on her.

She is alive and well (obviously). Real life has - as we already know - held her captive. But the sequels will be coming in due time! Read below for more details:

Hi Tina,

Thank you so much for writing the article. You are a very talented writer in your own right, Your article was LOL funny and I am extremely flattered that my fanfic was the subject!

As for where I am and have been? Well, I'm sorry to say I'm still diverted by my other writing project. I had hoped to be done by the end of last month, but the Christmas holidays put me back further than I thought, and that deadline obviously went by. I hesitate to give readers another date, because at this point I can't be certain I will meet it. What I am certain of is that the outlines for the sequel stories are done and the stories will get written. It's a matter of when, not if.

I am sorry for the delay, especially since so many readers have waited so patiently for me to get back to this series. All I can do is apologize and beg for a little more patience.

Again, thank you so much and I am sorry to be such a procrastinating disappointment!

Diane

No need to apologize! You don't owe anyone anything, hon. And you are not a disappointment! We just love your story and we wanted to throw some love your way!

We will continue to wait PATIENTLY with bated breath.

Why?

Because it is worth the wait.

Good luck with your RL writing project, and we look forward to seeing you return to FanFiction in the future.

Love,

Tina

Where In The World Is....x .x . Poker Face . x. x?

Today's 'Where in the World' has been requested by our very own Lamb, Lucy.

You see, Lucy has a particular story she quite enjoys, and it is called Lemony Bites, although we have yet to see any lemons *winks*

This is an AH AU Bella/Edward fic with a VERY OOC Bella. Life hasn't been very kind to dear Bella. She grew up in Forks with her parents, Renee and Charlie. But, Bella was tormented to no end by her peers. She was what one would describe as an ugly duckling as a teenager; awkward, klutzy, thick-rimmed glasses, braces...the works. And she only had one person she called 'friend'...and lover, the now deceased Jacob Black.

She and her mother left Forks when Bella was about 15 years old, moving to Phoenix to start life anew. The same old, same old occurs whereby Renee hooks up with Phil, and this story begins with Bella travelling back to Forks to live with her father. Bella is now 21, though, and an aspiring chef. Is Bella happy to be back in Forks? Not at all. And, she's even more displeased by the fact that Charlie still lives in the past. She even remarks to him upon entering her childhood bedroom again that she's amazed that there's a bed awaiting her, and not some old crib.

Bella's first encounter with her past occurs in town while she's at the local supermarket purchasing groceries for Charlie's bare kitchen. Who does she see? A disgusting Mike Newton and a repulsive Jessica Stanley. They're shocked when they find out that the beauty now standing before them is no stranger to town, but 'The Bella Swan'. Bella is chuffed by their reaction, but dreads meeting up with the loathsome Cullen kids, who are described as quite possibly the worst of her past's tormentors. She was bullied, ridiculed, and sometimes physically assaulted by them in high school. So, upon successfully leaving a slack-jawed Mike and Jessica behind in the supermarket with her now purchased groceries, who is one of the last people she wishes to come face-to-face with in the parking lot? Yep, one of the Cullens after a hilarious *slip oomph pop* in the parking lot on Bella's part.

Well, clarification here. A certain Jasper Whitlock - not a Cullen, but an adopted one all the same. And, one of the ones who would cause her nightmares. He's sex personified, and she takes a liking to him and his chivalrous ways until she realizes who he really is. But, like Bella, people generally change with maturity. She doesn't immediately give Jasper her forgiveness, but after a few heartfelt apologies, a box of chocolates, returned groceries, and some time spent together alone at the Swan residence, Bella realizes that Jasper is, indeed, both a good man and a new friend.

Jasper asks Bella to accompany him to a party. He even splurges on her and has his sister, Rosalie, purchase an expensive ensemble for Bella to wear to this party. You see, Bella can't put something together in time for the party because Charlie helped her to land a position at Yeux Rouges - a diner run by Laurent da Revin, and she must start work the day of the party (by the way, there is an interesting little scene with Bella, Laurent, and some mystery blonde in Laurent's office). Oh, and I forgot to mention that Jasper and a certain bronze-haired partner of his own several restaurants themselves, and Jasper is keen to steal Bella away from Laurent.

My favourite line from this story has to do with Bella's reaction to Laurent. It's just priceless:

I smiled nervously and nodded. Already on first name basis. Wow. I must be impressing him. He seemed pretty decent and nice. And French. His accent all but dripped of croissants.

So, Jasper, I believe, has something up his sleeve for this party. Okay, maybe a few things up his sleeve: he truly wishes to reintroduce Bella to Forks, he wishes to perhaps grab the attention of the elusive (and young) Alice Mary Brandon, and he wishes to perhaps shock the shit out of one Edward Cullen. I'm still not sure how Bella is going to react to that re-introduction...hmmm.

It's a masked party, though, so things should get interesting.

And, that's it. Three chapters is all we have to this story and we're left with Bella and Jasper, now masked, making their way to the party.

x .x . Poker Face . x. x leaves us hanging in the wind...that is probably blowing in through the window of Jasper's moving car.

I can hear a certain catonspeed 'yowling' in the distance, wondering what the hell is going to go down at this 'party', especially since Bella has no idea what she's going to encounter.

And, per the title of the story, we have to assume that some tasty morsels of lemony goodness are sure to come our way.

This story was first published July 5, 2009, and Chapter 3 was posted August 20, 2009. And, that's all she wrote...

So, I ask our little Maltese - Maltese! cool! - friend, x .x . Poker Face . x. x, fejn int?

Where In The World Is....vampvixen01?

Okay, bear with me here, people. This week's Where In The World is brought to you by IdreamofEddy. Tina is taking a much well-deserved weekend off to rest and spend some time with family while she also takes care of her obligations for her recently completed Shitteous Crap Contest.

So, I found this story in November of '08, called Sparkling Angel by vampvixen01. Sparkling Angel is an AU story based after Edward left Bella in New Moon. It's an 'other character' story, and it's quite original - and quite good, I might add. Christopher, who is looking for the Cullens, stumbles upon some scents leading directly into Bella's room. Bella, of course, thinks Christopher is there to eat her, because he does have red eyes. He is simply trying to find his 'penance'.

Sparkling Angel is angsty, from Bella's brooding all the way to Christopher's (the other character's) mysterious behavior and background. Now, being an other character story writer myself, I can tell you that while some might think it's easy to invent and create a history and a characterization around someone, it's not. But it is great practice to explore your creativity. Vampvixen01 got creative all right. Christopher is IT.

You get to experience how both Bella and Christopher really compliment the other, and later on how much they need each other. Both are broken, and through the encouragement and friendship, feelings of love are discovered. They are, however, unrealized until the end. Edward's return, of course, puts a damper on things, but what he comes back to is a much stronger Bella who's not so forgiving and not so..boring. At least that's what he sees and experiences. With Bella and Christopher it's a whole other story.

Sparkling Angel was completed in March of 2008. Now, it would have been fine as a stand alone story, but the author decided to publish a sequel, and Whoa! What a wonderful sequel it has been! Er...so far. My Angel is the sequel, and she pushed the rating level up one notch. Exciting times ahead were expected widely by all of Sparkling Angel's fans. We readers of My Angel were juuuuussstt getting into some..exploratory plot points with Bella and Christopher when the updates stopped.

My Angel is based after the events in Sparkling Angel. Bella and Christopher move away from Seattle so she can attend Harvard. In the chapters that were published, Bella grew accustomed to school, met a friend, and the relationship started to progress sexually. Then here comes Edward, busting down the damn door while Bella and Christopher are half naked on the floor..To be continued?

So, where in the world is vampvixen01? Well, first of all, according to her profile information, her name is Sam. At the last profile update on July 29, 2009, she is 21 years old, had a boyfriend that she moved in with at Chapter 5's update, and he is her Edward. She also had received a degree in Literature, and she is from England.

Now, in October of 2008, vampvixen01 updated her story with an Author's Note telling her readers that she was suffering from a case of writer's block. At the end of March 2009, we received an update. She was still working through her writer's block but WOW! It was such a fantastic chapter. Edward busting down the door to Christopher and Bella's apartment after some fun times by our lovely couple was a heck of an ending..but..the end? Say it isn't so!

So, Sam...believe me, I more than know how life can get in the way. It's been almost four months since my last update. Things happen. Life is never easy. But we, your readers of Sparkling Angel and My Angel, would just like to know if you do have plans that include the continuation of this wonderful story. And it is wonderful. At 536 reviews for six Chapters, we dare say that it is indeed a hit. Either way, darling, we do applaud you for giving us the wonderful tale of Sparkling Angel.

Thank You.

stephenie-inspired-novelwriter Update!

Gah! stephenie-inspired-noverlwriter has updated! So happy!

And a mention? Aw, shucks, Crystal, don't mention it! I'm just a BIG fan and I'm just thrilled! And, if my "Where in the world is..." post and my recommendation of your story increased your following, that's wonderful!

So, for those of you who have not yet read the fabulousness that is A second chance at love, click here.

But, for those of you who have been awaiting the latest update, ie. Chapter 17, click here.

*flies off into the night to read some beautiful writing*

thatisastory Update!

Get ready for it! Can you handle it? Woot!

A message from thatisastory:

Hey Tina!!

Okay, so y'all have been unimaginably patient with me, and I can't begin to
express my gratitude for that! Work is much better (I discovered that the
advertising world is brutal around the holidays! Forget Worklife/Life/Online
Life balance, it was all Worklife.) On top of that I've moved into a house of
my very own--so double trouble there, new job + new house! I have great news though: My little outlet for stress, happiness, and creativity has been Vie!

I've got a second chapter with the beta right now, and she's rather quick on
turnaround, so I'm hoping to have it posted within the next two days. I think
I've added in a bit of a 'reward' moment in there too, something y'all did not
see in Afterlife. *grin* At 7300 words, I have to say this chapter was a
bear to write size wise, but it absolutely had to be that long. Chapter 3 is
already in the works, I hope to have this out in the next few weeks. I'm
looking forward to sharing Vie's vampire lore and history with y'all, and I'm
especially excited to introduce you to a lot of original characters.

Thanks for your love and patience!! And thanks so much for all the
support!!

Jess

Oh, swoon! 7,300 words AND a lemon? I can hardly wait *let's go beta, let's go! let's go beta, let's go!*

Ah, the joy...

Where in the world is...thatisastory?

I found Afterlife back on May 19, 2009. Since my account at FFn began on May 4, 2009, you can imagine that it was one of my very first fan fics I read at the site. Basically? I fell in love. This is a story that is just so full of anguish and pain. Edward and Alice are dead, leaving behind two deeply destroyed mates. Now, I have said it many, many times: I do not like Edward and Alice. BUT! This story hit me hard, and I felt compelled to like them, or at least, the memory of them.

Jess, aka thatisastory, gives us probably one of the most beautiful road trip stories out there. Jasper has gotten himself into quite a bit of trouble, no longer living with the Cullens since Alice's death, and it is Bella - forced out of her comatose, grieving state - who finds him in Texas after the Cullens go searching for him. Rather than reunite with their family, Bella and Jasper embark on a journey of self-discovery and reconciliation. They need each other in order to heal.

I loved taking this journey with them. What happens to you when the ones you love die? For some, you become destructive, like Jasper; for others, you close yourself off to the world, like Bella. But, you come to realize, with time and healing, that life can be lived again. Especially with someone who knows your pain. Jasper's and Bella's recollections together about Alice and Edward are just heartbreaking. But, what they share with each other forges a relationship that neither of them ever imagined could happen. And, what I love about this story is its slow build and that Jess doesn't throw them together romantically right away. I hate when that happens in a story, especially where there is so much grief.

Now, Jess delved deep on a personal level to write Afterlife. You can find her emotional inspiration for this story on Chapter 23 (the final chapter). See? Sometimes a story is so powerful precisely because you have written from the heart. Jess' newfound 'appreciation for life itself through the death of another is the basis of this story. And, there are some parts where Bella and Jasper will bring you to your knees.

So, yes, Afterlife has a very abrupt ending; I was very shocked, but not in a bad way. I can see why Jess decided to end it where she does. It's clean. And, of course, it always helps when the author soothes your fear and tells you that a sequel is already in the works. The sequel to Afterlife is called Vie (pronounced 'vee', which is French for 'life'). Jess has only posted the first chapter to this sequel, and we find Bella and Jasper embarking on their 'let's begin life again' journey in Paris. We also encounter a strange, new vampire, and Jess leaves us with a bit of a cliffhanger, especially when this new vampire moves her eyes over Bella and Jasper 'hungrily' - uh oh! What's this?

So, on with the purpose of this segment: Jess, honey, where in the world are you? We miss you! Jess posted Vie on September 12, 2009. She also updated her FFn profile page on November 17, 2009, writing:

UPDATE: VIE STILL LIVES!! I promise I'll come out with a chapter soon--new job is far more challenging than I originally thought, but I've been working on it, and I'm so, so excited to share this story with you! Thanks for your love, support, and patience!

Congratulations on your new job, hon! New jobs can be very challenging, to be sure! And, while you're excited to share this story with us, I am sure you know that we are excited to share it with you. So, all we really want to know is how are you, how is your job progressing in its challenge, and can you give us some idea when your next update may be? We're with you one hundred percent! We just wanted you to know that we're still thinking about you and this sequel.

With much love,

Your fans

Where in the world is...journey2002?

Back when I mentioned a few weeks ago that I was at a loss due to my own resources to feature an author in this weekly segment, I made a plea to our followers to forward me anyone they would like to see featured. One of two things happened:

1) I received an insane amount of requests for journey2002 and her story The Air That I Breathe, and

2) I couldn't believe that I hadn't recognized The Air That I Breathe from my list of story alerts to begin with and, thus, have an "easy" for my Saturday segment. Blind eyes, and all, I guess!

Back on November 8th, fellow Lamb, Maelyn, recommended and reviewed The Air That I Breathe:

This is one of my favorite stories out there, even if the author doesn’t update very often. Why? Because it is so original. Jasper is so dark and tortured that you just want to scoop him up and tell him everything will be okay, even if he’d never let you get close enough. This is definitely the God of War type Jasper that so many of us love. Bella is a badass herself, even though she is human in this story. She's just as dark as Jasper and with good reason, her story being so dark and tragic that she actually is a good match for this Jasper. I love a Bella who stands up for herself and doesn't take shit. You have to enjoy watching how they both knock each other back a few pegs, both deal with their internal issues while learning of the other's, and both do their best to deal with the growing attraction to the other. It's a great read that I hope you give a try if you haven't already.

I agree with Mae, this is one of my favourite stories, too, and also because it is so original. Very original.

So, I commented back to those who contacted me, stating that I would feature journey2002 soon, BUT that knowing my luck, she would update before I was set to post.

My plan was to feature journey2002 today, on January 2, 2010. Here's where the gigglesnort comes in...yesterday, on New Year's Eve, I get an email announcing that The Air That I Breathe has just updated with a new chapter! Well, colour me speechless! I should have purchased a lottery ticket...

journey2002 PM'd me and we chatted back and forth, especially concerning my Saturday segment and what my plan had been:

LOL! How ironic is that. I love that segment that you do. You are welcome to still use me. We can just say 'Where in the world is she'...oh wait, I think I just saw her! It's unbelievable.

Thanks again for the recognition and the kind words here. Writing is and always has been very thereputic for me which is why I was so surprised that I couldn't get words to form in these last few months. But, Jasper is talking again (and he has a lot to say). I hated leaving everyone in the lurch like that, but I really didn't want to do an Author's Note as an update.

Unbelievable, indeed!

So, it is fair to say that journey2002 has not had an easy time as of late. She unfortunately suffered a miscarriage, as she states in her Author's Notes in her most recently updated Chapter 16:

It’s New Year’s Eve, the start of a new year, and hopefully, it will be that for me. I cannot apologize to each of you enough for the delay in updating. In short answer, I had a miscarriage that completely decimated me for a time (I will include a longer detailed author’s note at the bottom for those of you who might want the details.) Needless to say, I was not in the frame of mind to write for some time.

I realize that many of you might have lost interest in the story…so many months in between updates can cause the flow of the story to be completely lost. I just hope I have not lost too many readers. For those of you who continued to read and review during this time…thanks. Your words brought me joy, even when they were begs for updates or PM questioning my lack of response I still completely enjoyed knowing that others were reading the story.

I will be honest that I am unsure with this chapter. Jasper is beginning to turn a corner, even if he doesn’t know it. But there is a sadness that still lingers in me and I’ve worked very hard to keep it from spilling over to him too much.

For those of you able to pick back up in the flow of the story…here is the latest update. I am going to try to return to the once a week update. I am not giving up on this story.

So, to you, journey2002, as one of your many, many fans, I sincerely hope that 2010 is the start of a wonderful new year for you. You don't need to apologize to us for not updating, at all. We just wonder sometimes where an author has disappeared to, whether they have lost interest in their story, and whether we will ever see them again! I think it is safe to say that we all understand wholeheartedly why you were not in the right frame of mind to write. I certainly hope no one has lost interest in your story. I know I haven't, that's for sure!

And, don't be unsure about this latest chapter, hon! I loved it, and while Jasper is beginning to turn a corner, we know that this will be a long ride, and it is this battle Jasper is fighting within himself that draws us deeper into your story. That and the fact that while some headway has been made between him and Bella, their growing connection to one another is just that: a growing connection. There are no instant declarations made to each other, which I love. I am so eager to see where this adventure leads us. Also, remember that your real life feelings, when 'penned to paper', oftentimes lead to a better story and a cathartic way by which one can deal with one's emotions.

To anyone who has not read The Air That I Breathe, I suggest you click on the link right here, settle back, and enjoy the long ride. I know I do. Don't forget your snacks...my pretzels are always at my side /wink.

Oh, and as a side note, journey2002 has asked me:

If you can track her down though, I'd love to know what happened to Midnight Seductress. She has some awesome Jasper and Bella stories.

HA HA Hahahahaha...choke...major gigglesnort. Yep, hon, I've been there, done that. Read my segment on her here. She's elusive, that Midnight Seductress. I love her fics, too. But, I'm not going to bug her anymore because something is tickling the back of my neck, telling me that maybe, just maybe, something in real life has descended upon her, too, like it did for you. But, I'll tell you, the moment she updates either Destiny Awaits or Learning to Breathe, I'm going to do a monkey-shake and hide out in a small corner, licking up her words like they are sugar...

Where in the world is...LionsLamb?

Alright. Teener-weiner, pumpkin eater has a problem. I knew that at some point this would happen. You see, I have a rule when it comes to this segment: Only seek out authors who have disappeared, or stories that have not been updated for at least three months. That's fair, yes? Well, I'm out of juice, my friends. Thankfully, I suppose...but, it still leaves me in a quandary.

I have no one and no story to feature in today's segment based on my own readings.

So, here's my request to all of you: If there is a story or an author that YOU are seeking, my email is JaspersDestiny@gmail.com. Send your requests to me, including what it is specifically about the author or story that intrigues you so much, and I will make my segment based on your requests.

With that said, I bring you Mae's request:

Beautiful Stranger by LionsLamb

A hot, Roman Summer. Two weeks. Two strangers, thrown together in a steamy overseas affair. Two separate loves brewing - for the other. One must leave, but the other inadvertently follows. UST, SMUT, humour, angst. B/E All-human.

It is apparent that Beautiful Stranger, unfinished at 15 chapters, has not been updated since August 7, 2009. Well, this fits my parameters perfectly!

I have checked both LionsLamb's profile page and Chapter 15 of this story to see if I could get any indication regarding a hiatus on the author's part. The answer? No. No hiatus.

So, I then clicked on the story's reviews, and I began to hear birds calling to me..."Where in the world is LionsLamb" over and over again:

BeckTheWreck: Can't leave the story hanging like this girl! I've read the whole thing and can I say STEAMY? Yes I can. It's been too long. This baby needs an update. :)

Elven at Heart: This was a wonderful chapter! Hope to see another update soon!

GottaLoveFanFiction: Awesome story.. I hope you will update soon.. can't wait till they "meet" again.

vampirenites: what a fucking idiot she was why would she leave and not ell him please finish the story and get them together for me pleae <--a bit pushy...and angry. But, she, too, is anxious, no?

GeorgieAndCo: please, that cannot be the end..you can't let that be the end!he has to wake up and realise and go find her!

mrsjhale: This story is awesome! Please, please, please, please, please update.

canyaceme: I am heartbroken over the way this chapter ended. I can feel the pain of Bella leaving a man that she has come to love but is afraid of telling him, and the pain Edward will experience when he awakens to find her gone. God! This is awful! This story was so well written it carried you along with the characters so that you could actually feel what they felt, see what they saw, think what they thought. It was wonderful! Please don't leave us hanging too long. There's so much more to this story! Thank you so much for writing it!

onoimatwidard2: Oh no she didn't. I can't believe she got on the fucking plane. What a wuss. I'll be waiting with baited breath to see how this gets fixed. P.S. Obviously I'm enjoying the story or I would not care so much.

Sooooo....the consensus says, "Where in the world is LionsLamb?"

LionsLamb? Are you out there? Hello? *echo*>hello?hello?hello?<

Where in the world is...TaijaRae?

Captives is a story that intrigued me the moment I laid eyes on it on June 22nd, 2009.

As the summary notes, Jasper and Bella are taken captive and will have to please their captor with "a form of entertainment" in order to be released.

Well, riddle me excited, Bat Man. What must they do? So, I click on the fic and proceed to read the itty-bitty, two, tiny, leaving-me-wanting-more chapters available to fandom.

Who is this mysterious Kamau? Why does he want Bella and Jasper to pleasure each other for his "entertainment"? Why am I asking these questions...? Why wouldn't I want them to pleasure each other...? Stupid, stupid, stupid...

Do I care if their "forced" actions may hurt Edward or Alice? Uh. No. What I AM interested in seeing is A) more chapters, B) more "entertainment", and C) the repercussions of Bella and Jasper's shared enjoyment...I mean, there are bound to be complications, obviously, when they are eventually returned to the outside world, yes? What will they do? Will they secretly see each other? Or, better yet! They avoid each other, suppressing the feelings they have developed, until they just about burst. God, if I HAVE to, I suppose I can deal with a permanent foursome...it at least keeps Bella and Jasper "together"...sorta.

A stupid ditty for your enjoyment...ahem...

Jasper and Bella, sitting in a prison-suite, F-U-C-K-I-N-G...first comes "This doesn't feel right, Jasper", then comes "Why does this feel so good, Jasper?", then comes the "Please don't release us, KAMAAAUUUUUU...."

Bowing...nodding...thank you...thank you...bouquet in the face...

Why won't TaijaRae continue this story??? C'mon...Jesus. I wrote to her a LOOONG time ago, and she wrote back, and I quote:

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Subject: Captives

JaspersDestiny

Jul 07th, 3:41pm
Darling...when will you continue Captives? What a great story, and you have only done two chapters!!! Your last update was in the middle of June!

TaijaRae

Jul 07th, 4:07pm

I know, and I am sorry!! I kid you not, like two days after I posted the AN, my laptop that I do my fanfic typing on died, the thing will not turn on. =( This story is not wanting to be posted!
I have written SEVERAL chapters of Captives on paper, but the only computer I have to try to type and post on is the family computer. And my fanfictions are not quite family approved, if you get my meaning, lol ;)
Good news is I am getting a new laptop on Fri. or Sat., and the first thing I will do is type them all up and post the next! I have gotten lots of PMs saying I broke my promise...=(....It could not be helped. Thanks for your loyalty to the story!
Expect updates on Sun. at the latest!

JaspersDestiny

Jul 07th, 4:16pm

You're evil! SEVERAL chapters??? God...okay, I will silently scream in glee with anticipation for your next, imminent post! I thought you gave up on the story!

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Expect updates on Sunday, she wrote...and this was back in July???

Wawawawawhaaaat?

Her profile page reads, and I quote:

08/22/09- Hey all! I owe all of my readers another apology, I did break my promise for more updates, though not purposely. My laptop fried like three days after I posted the AN and I had to get it fixed. I had no way of updating. It has been working about a week now, but still not sure if I have time to type up more chapters, it has been hectic. I have NOT given up on the story, I have some handwritten chapters already done it is just a matter of typing and editing. Thanks for the reviews and PM's, they are appreciated. Once again I am sorry for the wait.

Honey-baby...FedEx that shit to me, and I'll type them up...or rub them all over my sweet, nekked body...hell, it's the closest to Jasper I will probably ever get.

P.S. Your profile page has been indicating that you are 17 for some time now. I really hope you're 18 now...or else you'll never see this segment...

Okay, gonna PM you now *throws on stalker cape* you better respond back!

Where in the world is...stephenie-inspired-novelwriter?

Oh, how I love stephenie-inspired-novelwriter's story A second chance at love! This story had me sooo excited that when an update would pop up, I would literally yell, "Coffee Break!" at work, "illegally" print said chapter, and fuck off for whatever length of time it would take me to read it. Imagine me outside the local bakery, coffee in hand, cigarette in the other, and new chapter balancing precariously on my knees whilst sitting on the bakery's old milk crate...classy? No. But, I have learned that being an AVID FFn reader does not equal dignity. We have been known, from time-to-time, to even neglect our loved ones...

So, A second chance at love. I love it. It is just such a wonderful Jasper/Bella tale. Yes, yes...I know it's Emmett month! Give me a break, people! I'm trying to read Emmett tales, so I can't just pull a non-updating Emmett-writing author out of my ass, you know? Besides, I'm a selfish bitch, and I want to know where stephenie-inspired-novelwriter is...OKAY?

OKAY...

A second chance at love hasn't been updated since July 23, 2009. There is a good reason for the no-update situation, though. But, you will have to read this story's 16 chapters to find out the reason - let's just say that stephenie-inspired-novelwriter explains her reason, and this reason is hers alone to publicize. I respect her and what she must be going through lately.

Now, I know that NCChris and I supposedly "tag-teamed" stephenie-inspired-novelwriter with "PMs of love and encouragement" and got her to "open the chapter and start writing" - and completing - Chapter 16. Yeah, we ARE kind of cool like that...but, when there's love, there's love! So, I guess what I hope to accomplish with this segment is the same...and, hopefully, Chapter 17 may unfold?

stephenie-inspired-novelwriter: How are you, hon? Please respond and let your many fans know where you are at in terms of this fantastic fic? I hope that somehow this little segment can turn your life downside up/*wink wink...

Tag-teaming is fun...but, it makes me feel a little like a British Bulldog. I don't think I look like either Davey Boy Smith or Dynamite Kid, do you?

JaspersStoryAlter Update!

He he...got word from the elusively non-elusive JaspersStoryAlter:

lol! *sticks tongue out right back
I may admit that I might of, maybe forgotten about this story *cue blush. On the up side I know what happens next, I'll get it written down in the next few days and out to you all asap.

Yay! I mean, I always knew she wasn't hiding...she's just a busy woman who gets many, many ideas in her head all the time for new fics...if you haven't checked them out already, here are her other stories:

Denying
Both Broken
Your words will damn me <-- which I really like
Ares
Do What It Takes<-- which I love (I even rec'd and reviewed it recently)
All talk and no action<-- dirty, dirty Jasper...mmmm...I'll scream for you, Mr. Man...
Last Chance<-- seriously, you should read this...Edward won't change Bella, so Jasper decides to take care of things, with a dash of love on the side.

So, you can see why JaspersStoryAlter is my go-to gal for one shots.

But, she's a mystery...her profile page indicates:

Yes this is my alter. I write regularly on this site under a different name but need somewhere to post my stories that are a little diferent. If you want more of one of my stories let me know and I'll continue it if its popular.

No I dont think I will be revealing who I am unless you can guess yourself. ;-)

I will work on these stories to meet demand so if you want to see more you have to say so. They will come second priority to my other stories though. (-:

I know who she is.../*dances around the fire pit..tee hee...but, I'll never tell. I wish I could, though, because her regular profile has great stories...

In terms of Dmor of Votum, we're looking forward to Chapter 3! Woo! Just, don't make me write another segment on you in a few months if we haven't seen Chapter 4/*winks mischievously.

Where in the world is...JaspersStoryAlter?

Yeah, I'm a little shit, Bumble Bee! I know where you are, but your go-to gal is going to call you out on a little story she's loved for faaaaar tooooo long called...ummm....what was it, again? How the hell should I know? I've only been waiting since, like June...sorry, I get Alzheimer's sometimes...dahhhh...ummm...Oh! That's right!

Dmor of Votum

This story worked me up immediately. What a sexy beginning! Jasper is so hot, working Bella up that way...Smirksper, Lucy! Smirksper! And, like a lot of readers, I was in no way prepared for what Jasper and Bella were actually doing...no, not at all. But, I do know one thing: that has never happened to me. Ever. That is something played out ideally in film, but in real life? Nah...something close happened to me once! But, when the guy turned his head, huskily, toward my face, he had Cheerio-breath - which is probably the worst breath someone can have in a potentially romantic situation. Worse than garlic breath. Worse than cabbage breath. The Worst. Jasper? He doesn't eat the shit, so it could never happen. But, I digress...

Dirty, dirty Jasper, teasing Bella so...

One of my favourite reviewers is Byjinder, who writes in Chapter 1: It's Jasper. JASPER! Southern Sex God Jasper! If I were Bella, I would say screw the entire family 'cause I'm screwing Jasper!<--Yeehaw, honey, for sure! Christ, this woman doesn't even write for Twilight...goodness, Jasper is a loved, loved man! But, then again, she follows up in Chapter 2 with an even more hysterical reaction: D!D!D!D!D!D!D!D! Naughty Spank Me Fun! Who cares about Alice and Edward! Sex God Jasper is worth EVERYTHING!<-- even orphaned kittens, my dove?

Your Jasper is so hot, actually, that...well...goodness/*shudders slightly, but loves it anyway --> you found a grandma! sakari-x! Holy shit! The woman has grandkids who are old enough to read adult fanfiction!/*rubs eyes, gleefully...you hit all age levels, woman! HA hahaha...Anyway, she writes: Great chapter, very hot! I do love me some sexy Jasper *pant*. <-- Fuck me, a panting granny! She goes on to write: So hard to choose what's next... hmm.. I would really love some spank me sex, and even some in the story, but I think I'm going to vote for B. Spank me sex can come in a few more chapters./*sorry, had to use some Lysol..

Your writing style is something that I have always loved, as is probably evident in my reviewing you often, in many places/*winks

But, I'm not the only one who likes your writing style. I'll remind you of some of the love you have received from others:

Corrupted Desires writes: *bouncebounce* Thanks for the sweet mental imagry in this...

JaspersBella writes that Chapter 2 is f**king fantastic!

*dons SUPER investigative gear* Woof! I found her! MIDNIGHT SEDUCTRESS! HA! Why do I find her lurking when I'm still awaiting a response from her for my segment on her? Ahem...she writes: Hmm, I think I'm going to go with C. As much as I'd like to see them having 'naughty spank me fun', I think seeing them try to fight their feelings would make a better story. Plus, we all know that a little lust will make the shagging twice as good when they give in ;) Great chapter, loved it x

What a naughty little thing you are! Tsk tsk tsk...Two little chapters...two! And, a little Booyah! in your summary on FFn indicating, and I quote: Jasper/Bella Cast your vote on what happens next. It's an awesome idea, actually. But, it especially works if you continue the story! You set out the options for voting how this story should unfold, but then you leave us hanging like a bunch of stunned monkeys, waiting for Chapter 3...and then 4? Maybe Cinque? Definitely Six...but, Sept is so lovely, isn't it? Hmmm, even our own missmaj writes about the exciting possibilities for this story: This is amazing! It's like Choose Your Own Adventure for grown-ups! Letter C please! Naughty stuff can wait. A and B makes for a better story. The more drama the better!<-- see? Even missmaj wants a longer, more drawn out story! In my own review to you, I ask you to keep it slow and sweet because what would a story be without the torture? And then I beg you to Please torture us?

Clurrabella concurs: I would love to see A) played out! Im really enjoying what iv read so far, id love for you to write more, you have a great style =]

Kitsanken writes: I love your style of writing. So hot...so steamy...so darn "bad" that it's mouth watering goodness! Bravo! For what it's worth, my vote is DEFINITELY for C...I just LOVE the tension associated with unrequited love and sexual frustration...just as long as there's a light at the end of the tunnel! There's just something so appealing about a frustrated, somewhat repressed, struggling Jasper who's in denial. And, of course, the stress associated with trying to thwart both Alice and Edward's Gifts. Bella, of course, has it a little easier...she just has to worry about Alice. At any rate, I've enjoyed all of your fics thus far and am looking forward to more smexiness in the future.<-- yeah, where's the "more smexiness"?/*tear falls onto keyboard...

Chapter 2 ended with Emmett promising to keep Jasper and Bella's naughtiness a secret, for now, and Jasper and Bella acknowledging that even though they love Alice and Edward, they can't deny what they're feeling in this moment. You provided this at the end:

They didn't care that they got caught but now Jasper is going to make sure Emmett keeps his mouth shut so Alice and Edward dont find out about it from him.

The winning votes from last chapter will be an ongoing theme but cast you vote on what happens next.


A) They try to stay away from eachother even though they think they're falling in love

B) They try to stay away from eachother by ignoring the sexual attraction

C) Both of the above

D) They dont care if Alice and Edward find out and they run off for some naughty spank me fun (They dont try to hide it but dont go out of their way to tell)

E) They have naughty spank me fun and then try to explain it to their partners

NOTE that the key word is TRY :-D

Squeeze me? With 47 reviews for two chapters, I know that readers voted...yes? Allow me to re-tabulate Chapter 2's votes for you, darling, in case you got a tad confused:

A) 4 votes
B) 1 vote
C) 8 votes
D) 6 votes
E) 7 votes

So...drum roll, please...your readers want to see C) both 'They try to stay away from eachother even though they think they're falling in love' and 'They try to stay away from eachother by ignoring the sexual attraction'.

Also, I think you got your minimum of 15 votes required to continue this story, at least to Chapter 3/*snickers...you hate me right now, don't you?

So, where is it mademoiselle? Your fans have spoken/*sticks tongue out at you...

ExploitingReality Update!

Hello ExploitingReality fans!

I have received word from ExploitingReality, courtesy of a comment she posted in answer to my "Where in the world is..." segment I did on her yesterday! So, it appears as though maybe her muse hasn't hightailed it to Puerto Rico...hehe ;)

Here is what ExploitingReality had to say, and it looks bright for us Sweet Catastrophe lovers:

Wow! Who'd have thunk (yes, that's right, thunk) that I'd warrant my own section on alasl as a 'where are they now?' Well, I'd just like to let everyone know that I am, indeed, still quite alive, (though I can't vouch for Ms. Midnight Seductress) and though my stories are languishing in complete and utter stagnance, they are certainly not forgotten about! I've been struggling through the latest chapter of Calefaction (for months, and months, and months), though if interest is still piqued, I may very well put that down for a while and see if I can't get an update on Sweet Catastrophe. I'm always amazed at the support and encouragement my readers offer, and I just wanted to say thanks for the reminder that I have quite a bit of unfinished business out there. (As if I could forget) I also plan to join in the worst story ever contest, though amazingly, I'm finding that nearly as difficult as writing something good! :P So keep an eye out, because even though I haven't been around much, I haven't completely disappeared.

This is so awesome! Thank you so much for responding to my segment, ExploitingReality! I love this segment because I'm able to throw love to some of our favourite authors, and, hopefully, provide feedback from the authors to their loyal readers. It truly is wonderful when this happens.

We look forward to your continuation of Sweet Catastrophe in a huge way; and, the idea of you joining in the mad fun that is guaranteed to occur in The Most Shitteous Craptastic Cuddlecock Crack Contest is out of this "world".

Again, thank you for responding to your loyal, loyal fans!

Where in the world is...ExploitingReality?

Once upon a time, there was a story called Sweet Catastrophe. In this story, a girl named Bella races against the clock to save her beloved Edward in Volterra with the help of her best friend, Alice. Unfortunately, the clock doesn't like Bella. A stopwatch appears out of nowhere and decides the fate of both Edward and Alice. Emotionally destroyed, Bella must go home to Forks to deliver the horrifying news to both Edward and Alice's family, the Cullens, and to give Alice's beloved, Jasper, a note from his now dead wife.

And...that's it. Seriously. Two chapters. Two chapters posted on two days in March of 2009, 52 reviews, and a girl named JaspersDestiny freaking out because she's been hooked to this story since June 14, 2009, and moaning about ExploitingReality's muse. Because, apparently, it's the muse's fault.

I'm not the only one, though, who has been waiting for an update to this glorious story. Oh, no! Ahem, here are some of the responses that this story has received:

Hmclaugh: "great start, can't wait to see how the rest of it unfolds."

Yes, it is a great "start". Agreed.

Midnight Seductress: "Fantastic chapter, can't wait for more!"

Uh...I think you and Midnight Seductress ate the same cheeseburger because I haven't heard from her, either. Yet, even she can't wait for more! Ah ha! That's what she's doing! She's waiting for you to update before she updates! It's a game...I'm so slow sometimes ;)

LoveLife24: "Okay, so I must admit that I don't like Jasper/Bella, BUT your writing style sucks me in! You are amazing! Have I already told you that? haha PLEASE update soon!"

Um...she doesn't like Jasper/Bella...but, somehow you have managed to score this non-Jasper/Bella reader with two chapters...incredible! You have this effect on people, though, because you made Summerlea an "instant" Bella/Jasper fan. That's powerful, my friend!

You have made becca xx, Keehl-River, mrsalreyami (TARA goddamnit!), and fellow Lamb missmaj CRY. Like, tears! Have you ever seen a Lamb cry? It's like a sickly 'baaaa'...'baaaaaH'...Kleenex® Brand has been loving these women since April...

Broken Nightingale's HEART is breaking...

For Christ's sake! You are going to actually make lil'miss whitlock lose her mind...like literally!

And, good God! LaViePastiche has been hanging precariously on the edge of the cliff YOU created since April 26, 2009. That's strength! That's loooove...

solemariecullen has gone and lost her mind because her worrying about Jasper and Bella has her seeking out someone named "gogg".

mudpuddledemon has morphed into Scooby-Doo...

Alana84 is wondering if you have abandoned your story...

ElleC knows she never should have read this story because she desperately wishes you would continue it...

JaspersPrincess213 wonders if you have lost your inspiration or don't have time to work on it, but she's still hoping!

Adipocere hopes your muse hasn't abandoned you and that you will "return to this story and continue once more to breathe new life into your retelling of a tragedy that many have explored". She is truly interested in your version!

As am I...

Your story is well-written, intense, immediately painful, beautifully thought out...and, if there is one thing for certain, one thing that holds all of us Sweet Catastrophe readers together, it is our dire hope that you WILL continue this wonderful story! Seriously. Two chapters, and you have people waiting with bated breath for an update.

You have been ridiculously praised for your fantastic story, Calefaction. You have been a busy girl. So, I can understand if that story has occupied your creative flow with Sweet Catastrophe. But, the concern lies now with the fact that you haven't updated Calefaction since August 13, 2009. Do I sense a repeat?

If it's your muse that has halted your ability to proceed, I have no qualms with venturing to Mount Helicon to pluck you one of the other eight muses lingering there, languishing with the hope that someone - maybe you - will want inspiration.

To quote Dante Alighieri, in Canto II of The Inferno:

O Muses, O high genius, aid me now!
O memory that engraved the things I saw,
Here shall your worth be manifest to all!

The things you 'saw' for Sweet Catastrophe, my dear, need to be written down...