InsaneJournal

Rec: "Things We Lost (and Found) in the War," by Xylodemon
My usual flavor is slash, of course. But when the writing is this fine, all preferences can be tossed aside.

Title:Things We Lost (and Found) in the War
Author: xylodemon
Pairing: Severus/Minerva
Rating NC 17
Warnings Het is not a warning

Summary:Two people, two wars, and a few of the things they learned along the way.


xylodemon is a very fine writer, and the only reason I don't rec her stories more often is that she tends towards characters and pairings that aren't usually my cuppa. But I saw that she'd posted a Severus/Minerva story, and couldn't resist. And wow, was curiosity rewarded here: this gorgeous work.

I'm not sure where to start: the perfect characterization and voice for both Snape and Minerva, or the deft way she fits her scenes into canon, or the lovely, taut, and understated tone of the prose. All of these strengths sparkle and shine. The narrative structure is also very well done: the series of scenes go back and forth here, ducking and weaving through the various canon books, deftly weaving the tale of a complex relationship. This story has a very adult conception of their connection, and I loved it so. Not to be missed.