Whispers by inlovewithnight (G)

[rosiespark.livejournal.com]

Fandom: HORNBLOWER
Pairing: Horatio/Archie
Author on LJ: inlovewithnight
Author Website: Exaggeration and Blank Verse
Why this must be read:

One of my favourite things about this fic is that it features an Archie who is vulnerable but not weak. If you were to ask Renown-era Archie what his worst nightmare is, I’d put my money on it being precisely what inlovewithnight has happen to him here. His wry, even bitter, humour in response to what must be a terrifying prospect ties in perfectly with his characterization in Mutiny and Retribution.

My other favourite thing is the tenderness between Horatio and Archie, and the way they don’t need too many words to convey concern and a deep affection – because words are dangerous on the Renown, where the ship herself seems to be listening. And the fact that we know, although they themselves are unaware, that the time they have left together is short adds an extra poignancy to the ending.

This may not be a long fic but it’s a gem of beautifully-judged atmosphere, character and dialogue from an author who has a very sure touch with these characters.

Whispers