Safe Harbor, by Kellie Matthews (NC-17)

[ardent-muses.livejournal.com]

Fandom: THE MAN FROM U.N.C.L.E.
Pairing: Napoleon Solo/Illya Kuryakin
Author on LJ: kelliem
Author Website: http://kellie.mrks.org/

Why this must be read:

Kellie posted this story so recently that it feels a little awkward to be reccing it already. And then there's the fact that I was lucky enough to be one of the betas. But you know what? It's a damn good story and *I'm driving the van* this month (for a few more minutes, anyway). *G*

I've admired Kellie's writing since way back in the olden days when she was writing (and I was reading) X-Files. Het X-Files. So I'm definitely a fan. However, I think this is one of her best stories in any fandom. Ever. It's certainly among a handful of my favorites. Here's why:

* The characterization and general adherence to canon is wonderful. I recognized these guys from the TV show, which is always reassuring. Like you, I love those guys I see on the screen. I want to see more of them. And here they are!

* The sensuality - There's some fresh stuff here, too, that you haven't seen anywhere else. And oh my God, you won't believe how hot. (Yes, that's all I have to say about that.)

* The situation felt fresh and different to me, and it's a long, satisfying read. You won't find much case stuff here, but you will find plenty to keep you occupied if you prefer your stories plotty. (And also if you don't.)

* As usual with Kellie, there's lots of carefully researched period detail.

* I really love slash stories where the conflict involves a real, legitimate issue for the partners to resolve in their relationship (rather than just a small misunderstanding) and that is the case here.

* Finally, the language. Kellie sets a high standard for herself as a writer and, as a reader, I am grateful. The dialogue is spot on and the internal monologues *sound* right. I would quote some, but I couldn't pick just one piece.

Highly recommended. I know I haven't done this story justice, so I'll let the commenters have a say. Enjoy!

Safe Harbor at the Chrome and Gunmetal Madhouse Archive,

OR Safe Harbor (at Kellie's site)

Comments

[bluster.livejournal.com]

I couldn't agree with you more!!

[lyricalsoul.livejournal.com]

All right... what did you do to me? I don't, have never, hadn't even considered, Man From UNCLE stories. Ever.

Why did I read this and fall in love with these guys?

Damn. Starsky and Hutch aren't gonna be happy!

Great rec, by the way. Hooked me like a fish.

Sigh...

[ardent-muses.livejournal.com]

Great minds think alike, kiddo. :)

[ardent-muses.livejournal.com]

That song is music to my ears. I betcha I have that toaster by morning. *G*

Welcome! Check out the MFU Overview (http://www.livejournal.com/community/crack_van/96676.html), if you haven't already. sithdragn and irene_heron did an amazing job. And there are pictures! Mrowl!

I *love* your icon. :)

[green-key.livejournal.com]

::iconluv::

[green-key.livejournal.com]

Excellent rec! In addition to your glowing review, all of which I agree with, I'll add that Kellie allows Napoleon and Illya to express themselves emotionally, yet she maintains their individual masculine qualities throughout. It's wonderful to read.

Safe Harbor might be a recent story, but I think it's my single most-reread piece of fanfiction ever. It's at the top of my recs list.

[raveninthewind.livejournal.com]

I printed this one out in hard copy and have read it twice.

It's hard to know what to say, except if I hadn't alredy been sucked into the MfU fandom, this one would have done it for me.

[ardent-muses.livejournal.com]

Kellie allows Napoleon and Illya to express themselves emotionally, yet she maintains their individual masculine qualities throughout

Excellent point! See, I knew you guys would fix all the stuff I left out. :) They're not tough guys or girly men. They're just guys.

Safe Harbor might be a recent story, but I think it's my single most-reread piece of fanfiction ever. It's at the top of my recs list.

::nods:: It's a beautiful story.

As usual, I'm drooling over your icon. Great pic of both of them. Which ep is that from? *G*

[ardent-muses.livejournal.com]

I know exactly what you mean. It's a happy thing to be in fandoms where there are some really good writers. :)

Just to be consistent, I adore *your* icon also. *G* Love that guy.

[kelliem.livejournal.com]

I'm pretty sure it's a photomanip. Unfortunately. :)

[kelliem.livejournal.com]

Thank you for the rec. I'm incredibly flattered!

[lyricalsoul.livejournal.com]

Oh, thanks, but credit goes to bakedgoldfish. I stole, er, borrowed it from her.

Must.Go.Read.More Man From Uncle.Slash.

Damned brainwashers.

[lyricalsoul.livejournal.com]

No. No 'welcome to the fandom'. Shoo me away!!!

Yeah, so I read the overview, and went to the recommended sites. And what have I been doing all day while I'm supposed to be assisting customers? Sneaking, reading stuff I downloaded to my Palm.

Downloaded to Palm.

And I've never seen a single episode.

Sigh. I'm hooked now. How am I gonna explain i>another fandom to my poor husband, who's already jealous of Starsky and Hutch?

Too little, too late.

Yeah, thanks for the Man From Uncle crack. Now I'm addicted.

[ardent-muses.livejournal.com]

You deserve that and more. This is a story that will last and last. :)