“Unaccustomed” by Shay Sheridan (PG)

[tatkreiswok.livejournal.com]

To make up for my absence in rec’ing last week, here’s a second helping. It’s succinct, but beautiful.

Also, I know I said I wouldn’t rec any more gen fic, but this one is just a gem. Don't be put off by the PG rating, this one deserves a read...

Fandom: MAN FROM U.N.C.L.E.
Pairing: None
Author on LJ: shayheyred
Author Website: Chez Shay - A Fine Reading Establishment
Why this must be read:

Shay Sheridan is the author of one of my all-time favorite “Man from U.N.C.L.E.” stories, a gorgeously complex novel called “Phoenix” – which has previously been rec’ed here at crack_van – that delves deep into Illya Kuryakin’s character.

As long as that story is, this one is the absolute opposite. With brevity and restraint, she skillfully distills the pure essence of Napoleon Solo. At the same time, she conveys the complexity of just who Napoleon is under that glossy veneer of his, and just what Illya means to him. This story, although brief, is powerfully potent and packs a solid punch.

Here’s a taste:


The crying was getting on his nerves. Usually he would have stopped it, have taken the woman in his arms by now, to soothe and steady her by cooing sweet words in her ear to make her stop. He always did that, by instinct, by habit, gravitating towards any woman of any age, the innocent in distress at the carnage they always managed to leave behind.

But the carnage was different, and the Innocent was the one with gunpowder on her hands, and Napoleon couldn't bring himself to comfort her.


Unaccustomed

Comments

[shayheyred.livejournal.com]

Well, I'm totally delighted to have this recced. Thanks so much for giving me the nod (and for your lovely comments about Phoenix. too).

[tatkreiswok.livejournal.com]

You're totally welcome! Thank you for writing such wonderful stories!!! :D

[nepthys-uk.livejournal.com]

Thanks for the excellent MFU recs so far this month. I especially enjoyed this one - I agree with you that Shay is a fantastic writer (I've now been through all the other MFU fic on her site!)

[tatkreiswok.livejournal.com]

Sorry for the delay in responding -- and thank you for the kudos! I'm having loads of fun pimping so many great stories that exist in the fandom!

I highly recommend taking a turn behind the wheel at crack_van! It's a great way to meet people, and a nice way to give back to a fandom (so to speak) if you're not a prolific writer.

[periwinkle27.livejournal.com]

Shay has had several recs on Crack_van -- all richly deserved. I previously recced one of her humorous pieces: "Cherchez la Femme" which is a great contrast in tone to this story.

I'm glad you brought this story to the group's attention. Nice recommendation.

[tatkreiswok.livejournal.com]

Thanks -- and apologies for the delay in responding!

Shay Sheridan is a terrific writer, and I think I discovered her work through your recommendation of "Cherchez..." It's how I found and fell in love with "Phoenix" and "Unaccustomed," among others. So, thank you! :)