EPIC REC POST #2 - REAL PERSON FICTION: J2 (Jared/Jensen)
J2 RECS:
These are in Alphabetical Order. Top Recs are **BOLDED**.
FANFICTION:
** And Behind This Door… by indysaur**
Word Count: 21,125
Light or Heavy: Heavy.
Rating/Spoilers/Warnings: PG-13. None.
Summary: AU: As a child, Jensen Ackles was adopted by monsters. He grew up in Monstropolis and he works for Monsters, Inc. When he stumbles through Jared Padalecki’s closet, everything about his world changes.
Why You Should Read It: Written for j2_everafter for Monsters, Inc. I was really excited about this story because great movie + great author generally = great fic. It didn’t disappoint! It’s such an original story and the idea could have gone horribly wrong but it’s handled wonderfully. The author pulls an INCREDIBLE sneaky move with the ending of this story and it’s a really great moment. The boys love each other so much here-I don’t even want to say too much out of fear I’ll give something away.
** And the Rest, As They Say, Is History by raina_at**
Word Count: ~30,000
Light or Heavy: Mostly Light.
Rating/Spoilers/Warnings: NC-17.
Summary: AU: Jared is a celebrity and Jensen is his dogsitter.
Why You Should Read It: This is one of those stories where, as I was reading it I just kept thinking “They are so GOOD for each other.” I really love when that happens. It just leaves you with such a satisfied conviction of their love! I like that even though this is a relatively stressful situation, it never gets melodramatic. They have a mature relationship and I love the characterization on both of them.
The Cure for All My Blues by balefully and girlmostlikely
Word Count: 2,680
Light or Heavy: Light.
Rating/Spoilers/Warnings: NC-17. Size!kink.
Summary: Non-AU: Jared has an enormous cock. Like, really, really enormous. It causes him lots of problems until Jensen comes along to properly enjoy it.
Why You Should Read It: This is just unabashed porn and it is a sloppy mess and I nearly set my dorm room on fire reading it. LSDJFOIGJOIDHJFOGIHJ.
** Don’t Fight With Your Pillow by balefully and setissma**
Word Count: 14,053
Light or Heavy: Light
Rating/Spoilers/Warnings: NC-17.
Summary: Non-AU: Jensen breaks his arm, Jared is a mother hen, and everything ends in sex.
Why You Should Read It: I read it on this awful, awful day last semester. Everything went wrong and it was cold and rainy, and I just needed something mindlessly adorable to cheer me up. And this story? Left me smiling for the rest of the night. It is hurt/comfort in every sense of the word and it will have healing effects on your soul.
Eat, Drink, Love by raina_at
Word Count: 8,600
Light or Heavy: Light.
Rating/Spoilers/Warnings: NC-17.
Summary: AU: Cynical waiter Jensen serves Serial Dater Jared's row of first dates.
Why You Should Read It: This author is just A++ at making these boys work together. I didn’t even realize that two of the stories where I thought they were the best suited for each other on this list were written by the same person until just now. These two-their banter and how quickly they have each other’s numbers and the little games they play-I love their relationship so much. Jensen is smart and Jared is passionate and I just wish it were longer!
** Goodbye May Seem Forever by rhythmsextion**
Word Count: 36,400
Light or Heavy: Heavy.
Rating/Spoilers/Warnings: NC-17. Underage sex (participating characters are both 16). Violence and graphic language surrounding homophobic themes. Chad Michael Murray.
Summary: AU: Jared and Jensen have been best friends since second grade, together weathering school work, girls, puberty and their burgeoning sexual identities all under the radar of Jensen's disapproving parents. They swear they'll be friends forever. But forever is a long, long time and time has a way of changing things.
Why You Should Read It: Written for this year’s j2_everafter and based on The Fox and the Hound. Are you guys seeing your lives flash before your eyes just at the mention of that movie? I was pretty nervous to read it due to my own childhood trauma after seeing this movie, but I am a glutton for punishment, so I went with it anyway. This story is so fantastic, you guys. I was worried that I would be totally annoyed by the reason that they couldn’t be friends, but I wasn’t. Yes, it’s stupid, but Jared and Jensen both know that and they always make the right decision because their love is so strong in this story and they really are willing to do anything for it. The things that go wrong are so far out of their control but they never give up. And of course, she fixes the ending. I love this story even despite the awkward first time sex, and that will usually kill a story dead in an instant for me (yeah, I know, I know, it’s just being realistic-but I don’t read porn for reality, guys). This is my #4 favorite J2 story. Also, it’s got fucking wonderful art.
If You Care to Stay by hkath
Word Count: ~14,000
Light or Heavy: Light.
Rating/Spoilers/Warnings: NC-17. Chad Michael Murray.
Summary: AU: Jensen, Jared, and Chad all share an apartment at different times. Jensen’s got a thing for his roommate-he just doesn’t know which one.
Why You Should Read It: It’s exactly as cutesy and fluffy as the summary implies. I really enjoy Jared and Jensen’s budding romance.
** Just One Breath by kkgee**
Word Count: ~56,000
Light or Heavy: Heavy.
Rating/Spoilers/Warnings: NC-17. Chad Michael Murray and bitchy!Sandy. Also, you know, shot!Jensen.
Summary: Non-AU: Jensen gets shot and Jared takes care of him.
Why You Should Read It: Okay, this fic is so hurty, but so wonderful! It’s packed with Hurt/Comfort and adoring boys and I have seen many a grown woman cry over this fic with my own eyes, but in the best possible way.
Keep Coming Round by misskittye
Word Count: 26,403
Light or Heavy: Light.
Rating/Spoilers/Warnings: NC-17.
Summary: AU: Vet!Jensen pines over taken!Jared.
Why You Should Read It: Jared Padalecki. With his arms full of kittens. ‘Nuff said.
** Keepsake by indysaur**
Word Count: 19,943
Light or Heavy: Heavy.
Rating/Spoilers/Warnings: R.
Summary: AU: Disney’s Wall-E with a J2 spin.
Why You Should Read It: This was written for last year’s j2_everafter based on Wall-E. It doesn’t hurt that Wall-E is one of the most emotionally compelling Disney movies out there, but this story does right by it. Jensen’s love for Jared is so, so sweet and there is SO MUCH awesome boy banter, and I have a total kink for Robot Love Syndrome, so Jared!Wall-E just breaks my heart in all the best places. This is one of my top 3 J2 fics.
** Lost and Found by mediaville**
Word Count: 47,000
Light or Heavy: Heavy.
Rating/Spoilers/Warnings: NC-17. Self-esteem and weight-related issues.
Summary: AU: Jensen Ackles is a shy, overweight songwriter whose body issues have prevented him from forming any real personal connections, and at thirty, he’s still unsure of his sexuality, and still a virgin. But when he signs up for an experimental obesity research program, he meets Jared Padalecki, a stunningly sexy fitness guru who slowly but surely changes Jensen’s life.
Why You Should Read It: I was really reluctant about reading this story when I got the rec because “Fat!Jensen, really?” YES, REALLY. No, in all honesty, if you take nothing on this list seriously, just take this rec seriously. It is my second favorite J2 story and by far the best one I’ve ever read. It’s emotional and wonderfully written and characterized and this Jared, he is just the best thing on the planet. His love for Jensen and his belief in him, I mostly can’t even take it. Expect to cry, and expect to not be able to get up and doing anything else until you’ve inhaled the entire story. I don’t have body weight issues, but everyone has had confidence issues with their looks at one time or another and this story is so relatable-it really hits home. Oh God, seriously, just read the fucking story.
**Malibu Jared by _mournthewicked**
Word Count: ~30,000
Light or Heavy: A mix? I’d say it’s exactly in the middle.
Rating/Spoilers/Warnings: NC-17.
Summary: AU: Jensen Ackles has a successful career, great friends, and an amazing little girl. His love life is pretty much nonexistent, but he’s okay with that. The same can’t be said for Ryan. She knows her daddy deserves all the happiness in the world, so she calls on her overactive imagination to make a wish that will change their lives forever. Jensen appreciates the sentiment, but that doesn’t make him any less surprised when he wakes up to find that not only did her wish come true, it’s sleeping in his bed.
Why You Should Read It: Written for this year’s j2_everafter and based on Life Sized. Just the prequel of this story merits a rec-it’s so hurty but so up my alley, it’s my favorite part of the story. Again, I have some serious love for Robot Love Syndrome and, okay, Jared’s not a robot, but he feels and it’s so sad until it’s just incredibly happy making. The Jensen in this story? Is probably the best person on the planet and even the kid is kind of awesome. AND MISHA, OMG. I think one of _mournthewicked’s greatest strengths is her ability to make the supporting characters awesomely engaging. This story makes my top 5 J2 stories. They’re really cute together and I love how easily the problems towards the end were solved because I hate tension just for tension’s sake and that did not happen here. It was a realistic problem that was solved without melodrama.
** Man’s Best Friend by belyste**
Word Count: ~18,000
Light or Heavy: Light
Rating/Spoilers/Warnings: NC-17.
Summary: Non-AU: Jensen gets turned into a dog. Things...happen.
Why You Should Read It: I know this sounds like crack fic, but it really doesn’t feel like it when you’re reading it. This story is funny and awesome and I love the characterizations, the jokes-I have read this story so many times I can quote huge parts of it and it has never not been exactly what I wanted to read. This is my favorite J2 story. Ever. It’s just too cute and oblivious!Jensen makes me smile. Also, I love a good Non-AU.
Open Mike Night at the Fremont by audrarose
Word Count: 27,415
Light or Heavy: Heavy
Rating/Spoilers/Warnings: NC-17. Hurt!Jensen is hurt.
Summary: AU: Set in Chicago, with Jared as a sculptor who works out of a garage and Jensen as a bookstore clerk who's trying to get over a tragedy.
Why You Should Read It: Once again, Jared Padalecki is a saint. I will just literally never get enough fics with Jared providing never-ending comfort for Jensen, because these two are my hurt/comfort pair and I read them when my soul needs a band aid. He’s just so good for Jensen and they make me really happy.
The Phone Call by standing_fic
Word Count: 1,207
Light or Heavy: Light.
Rating/Spoilers/Warnings: PG-13. None.
Summary: Non-AU: Pre-slash (could be gen) - Jared & Jensen’s first meeting, Chet the second PA from NY gets the boys to hang out for the first time, and Jared struggles with finding a new best friend and trying not to feel gay about it.
Why You Should Read It: This is just really cute. I love how hilariously nervous Jared is about every move he makes. THEY ARE SUCH BOYS.
Talking Points by winterlive
Word Count: 24,400
Light or Heavy: Heavy.
Rating/Spoilers/Warnings: NC-17.
Summary: AU: Texas state senator Jensen Ackles (D-16) is a dyed-in-the-wool idealist, a squeaky-clean boy scout, and a notorious press-dodger. His star is on the rise, and it's worth a career to get the scoop on him. The L.A. Times' star reporter Jared Padalecki might just make it to the Washington Post before his 30th birthday, if he can get the story - he'll have to go undercover and join Jensen's team. But it isn't long before the lie starts to feel like a betrayal, and Jared never expected to like his subject as much as he does.
Why You Should Read It: This is just a really smart story. I don’t usually go for politics but this was exceptionally written and compelling-it’s enjoyable if you don’t like politics, but even more so if you do. Both of the boys are really well written, flawed but good souls, and I think this does a great job of being both realistic and optimistic. Also, pretty, pretty art.
Trickle Down Our Goodbyes by gretazreta
Word Count: ~5,500
Light or Heavy: Light.
Rating/Spoilers/Warnings: G. None.
Summary: Non-AU: Jared is anxious about the future. Jensen makes breakfast.
Why You Should Read It: This is so sweet. Realistic and happy making and a nice, short read for a quick pick-me-up.
You Move Me by yourperiphery
Word Count: 10,000
Light or Heavy: Light.
Rating/Spoilers/Warnings: PG-13. Chad Michael Murray.
Summary: AU: In which Jensen is a mover, Jared is a tenth-grade English teacher, and Chad is not a fish.
Why You Should Read It: This is a fun read-wonderfully enjoyable characterizations, good relationship building between the boys. Jared is deeply flawed and yet you really get the sense that being with Jensen will make him a better person, and I find that very refreshing!
FANART:
Aladdin by fishpatrol
Drawn Art or Manip: Drawn Art.
Light or Heavy: Light.
Rating/Spoilers/Warnings: G. You may start shipping Aladdin/Genie.
Why You Should Look At It: This year’s j2_everafter art for Aladdin. It’s really precious and cracky!
Beauty by Pandora_gold
Drawn Art or Manip: Drawn Art
Light or Heavy: Light
Rating/Spoilers/Warnings: PG. Beast!Jared. Naked torso.
Why You Should Look At It: This is from last year’s j2_everafter for Beauty and the Beast and it’s really well drawn on top of being one of my favorite Disney movies. I especially like the Nap Time one with Harley and Sadie and tangled hands. So lovely. That one can be found larger here.
** Goodbye May Seem Forever by maichan808**
Drawn Art or Manip: Drawn Art
Light or Heavy: Light.
Rating/Spoilers/Warnings: PG. May be considered spoiler-y for the fic (which I highly recommend). Chad Michael Murray.
Why You Should Look At It: Art to one of my favorite j2_everafter stories this year, which was based on The Fox and the Hound. This art is just GORGEOUS. It is perfect for the story but completely enjoyable on its own. The tender way grown up!Jared kisses Jensen just makes my little heart explode. Also, the Chad is great.
** Misfortune Cookies by trolleys**
Drawn Art or Manip: Drawn Art
Light or Heavy: Light
Rating/Spoilers/Warnings: PG-13. Lude gesture and pseudo-cest. And Chad Michael Murray.
Why You Should Look At It: Drawn for last year’s j2_everafter for Freaky Friday. They’re so expressive and the technique is excellent! I love how completely this tells the story in just three or four drawings.
** Once Upon a Time… by tinkabell007**
Drawn Art or Manip: Graphic Art.
Light or Heavy: Light. Crack. So much CRACK.
Rating/Spoilers/Warnings: PG-13. Chad Michael Murray and Steve Carlson are bad influences. Sex joke. And so much crack.
Why You Should Look At It: Made for last year’s j2_everafter for Wall-E. I promise you will laugh. The first time I saw this I just could not believe what I was seeing but it make me giggle every time.
The Parent Trap by niccolite
Drawn Art or Manip: Drawn Art and some real pictures.
Light or Heavy: Light.
Rating/Spoilers/Warnings: Crack?
Why You Should Look At It: Done for this year’s j2_everafter for The Parent Trap. I don’t know, it really amused me. The first few pieces are really well done (especially the notes and stuff on the frdge! ♥) and then it’s just like “LOLWUT?” but I like it!
Test 3 by mooooong
Drawn Art or Manip: Drawn Art
Light or Heavy: Light.
Rating/Spoilers/Warnings: PG-13. Naked torso.
Why You Should Look At It: Cuddling! And JARED’S SMILE. *flails*
**Title Unknown by o-tsuki-o**
Drawn Art or Manip: Drawn Art.
Light or Heavy: Drawn.
Rating/Spoilers/Warnings: PG. None.
Why You Should Look At It: This is probably my favorite piece of J2 art I have ever seen in my life. Unfortunately, I couldn’t find a link to it on the artist’s websites and I have no idea where I found it, but I couldn’t bear not including it. It’s beautifully drawn and such a lovely moment-it feels so real and intimate and the love just shows through it so, so much. I also may have a weakness for J2 art that includes the doggies ^_^ If you join her art community, tsukis_art, you can see more of her stuff and it is just precious. There is one of them DOING LAUNDRY. *flail*
Untitled by mooooong
Drawn Art or Manip: Drawn Art.
Light or Heavy: Light.
Rating/Spoilers/Warnings: PG-13.
Why You Should Look At It: Lingering saliva will never fail to get my attention. I love how passionate this is-you can just tell they could not wait a moment longer. Formal wear and floor sex. Yes all around. And I love that this artist always exaggerates Jensen’s eyelashes.
FANVIDEOS:
**The Ballad of Jared and Jensen/Jared and Jensen Are in Love by seedyapartments**
Light or Heavy: Light
Rating/Spoilers/Warnings: PG-13. A mild Wincesty joke.
Why You Should Watch It: I wouldn’t even bother reccing this because I’d like to assume everyone who ships it ever has seen this video. But I keep meeting J2 shippers who don’t know the song. HOW CAN YOU NOT KNOW THE BALLAD OF JARED AND JENSEN, YA’LL?
**Here (In Your Arms) by Melissa**
Light or Heavy: Light
Rating/Spoilers/Warnings: PG.
Why You Should Watch It: THIS VIDEO. I watch it every time I’m feeling low and just instant smile. The song is adorable and perfect for them, and then they come in and say adorable things, and the moments the maker chose are so perfect-the way they look at each other! THEY ARE JUST SO SHINY AND ADORABLE.
FANMIX:
** J2 Fanmix by wutendeskind**
Light or Heavy: Light
Rating/Spoilers/Warnings: R.
Why You Should Listen to It: This mix has two of my favorite love songs ever (Are You Lightning? and Slow Show) on it and every time I hear either of them, I just get hearts in my eyes thinking of Jared and Jensen. The whole mix is just so appropriate to the boys and schmoopy with just a hint of uncertainty to keep it interesting (just like a good J2 fic!) The sound of it, the whole atmosphere, is just so, so Jared and Jensen to me and I adore it.
Next Up:
Remus/Sirius
In conclusion: I need more J2 fanart in my life.
These are in Alphabetical Order. Top Recs are **BOLDED**.
FANFICTION:
** And Behind This Door… by indysaur**
Word Count: 21,125
Light or Heavy: Heavy.
Rating/Spoilers/Warnings: PG-13. None.
Summary: AU: As a child, Jensen Ackles was adopted by monsters. He grew up in Monstropolis and he works for Monsters, Inc. When he stumbles through Jared Padalecki’s closet, everything about his world changes.
Why You Should Read It: Written for j2_everafter for Monsters, Inc. I was really excited about this story because great movie + great author generally = great fic. It didn’t disappoint! It’s such an original story and the idea could have gone horribly wrong but it’s handled wonderfully. The author pulls an INCREDIBLE sneaky move with the ending of this story and it’s a really great moment. The boys love each other so much here-I don’t even want to say too much out of fear I’ll give something away.
** And the Rest, As They Say, Is History by raina_at**
Word Count: ~30,000
Light or Heavy: Mostly Light.
Rating/Spoilers/Warnings: NC-17.
Summary: AU: Jared is a celebrity and Jensen is his dogsitter.
Why You Should Read It: This is one of those stories where, as I was reading it I just kept thinking “They are so GOOD for each other.” I really love when that happens. It just leaves you with such a satisfied conviction of their love! I like that even though this is a relatively stressful situation, it never gets melodramatic. They have a mature relationship and I love the characterization on both of them.
The Cure for All My Blues by balefully and girlmostlikely
Word Count: 2,680
Light or Heavy: Light.
Rating/Spoilers/Warnings: NC-17. Size!kink.
Summary: Non-AU: Jared has an enormous cock. Like, really, really enormous. It causes him lots of problems until Jensen comes along to properly enjoy it.
Why You Should Read It: This is just unabashed porn and it is a sloppy mess and I nearly set my dorm room on fire reading it. LSDJFOIGJOIDHJFOGIHJ.
** Don’t Fight With Your Pillow by balefully and setissma**
Word Count: 14,053
Light or Heavy: Light
Rating/Spoilers/Warnings: NC-17.
Summary: Non-AU: Jensen breaks his arm, Jared is a mother hen, and everything ends in sex.
Why You Should Read It: I read it on this awful, awful day last semester. Everything went wrong and it was cold and rainy, and I just needed something mindlessly adorable to cheer me up. And this story? Left me smiling for the rest of the night. It is hurt/comfort in every sense of the word and it will have healing effects on your soul.
Eat, Drink, Love by raina_at
Word Count: 8,600
Light or Heavy: Light.
Rating/Spoilers/Warnings: NC-17.
Summary: AU: Cynical waiter Jensen serves Serial Dater Jared's row of first dates.
Why You Should Read It: This author is just A++ at making these boys work together. I didn’t even realize that two of the stories where I thought they were the best suited for each other on this list were written by the same person until just now. These two-their banter and how quickly they have each other’s numbers and the little games they play-I love their relationship so much. Jensen is smart and Jared is passionate and I just wish it were longer!
** Goodbye May Seem Forever by rhythmsextion**
Word Count: 36,400
Light or Heavy: Heavy.
Rating/Spoilers/Warnings: NC-17. Underage sex (participating characters are both 16). Violence and graphic language surrounding homophobic themes. Chad Michael Murray.
Summary: AU: Jared and Jensen have been best friends since second grade, together weathering school work, girls, puberty and their burgeoning sexual identities all under the radar of Jensen's disapproving parents. They swear they'll be friends forever. But forever is a long, long time and time has a way of changing things.
Why You Should Read It: Written for this year’s j2_everafter and based on The Fox and the Hound. Are you guys seeing your lives flash before your eyes just at the mention of that movie? I was pretty nervous to read it due to my own childhood trauma after seeing this movie, but I am a glutton for punishment, so I went with it anyway. This story is so fantastic, you guys. I was worried that I would be totally annoyed by the reason that they couldn’t be friends, but I wasn’t. Yes, it’s stupid, but Jared and Jensen both know that and they always make the right decision because their love is so strong in this story and they really are willing to do anything for it. The things that go wrong are so far out of their control but they never give up. And of course, she fixes the ending. I love this story even despite the awkward first time sex, and that will usually kill a story dead in an instant for me (yeah, I know, I know, it’s just being realistic-but I don’t read porn for reality, guys). This is my #4 favorite J2 story. Also, it’s got fucking wonderful art.
If You Care to Stay by hkath
Word Count: ~14,000
Light or Heavy: Light.
Rating/Spoilers/Warnings: NC-17. Chad Michael Murray.
Summary: AU: Jensen, Jared, and Chad all share an apartment at different times. Jensen’s got a thing for his roommate-he just doesn’t know which one.
Why You Should Read It: It’s exactly as cutesy and fluffy as the summary implies. I really enjoy Jared and Jensen’s budding romance.
** Just One Breath by kkgee**
Word Count: ~56,000
Light or Heavy: Heavy.
Rating/Spoilers/Warnings: NC-17. Chad Michael Murray and bitchy!Sandy. Also, you know, shot!Jensen.
Summary: Non-AU: Jensen gets shot and Jared takes care of him.
Why You Should Read It: Okay, this fic is so hurty, but so wonderful! It’s packed with Hurt/Comfort and adoring boys and I have seen many a grown woman cry over this fic with my own eyes, but in the best possible way.
Keep Coming Round by misskittye
Word Count: 26,403
Light or Heavy: Light.
Rating/Spoilers/Warnings: NC-17.
Summary: AU: Vet!Jensen pines over taken!Jared.
Why You Should Read It: Jared Padalecki. With his arms full of kittens. ‘Nuff said.
** Keepsake by indysaur**
Word Count: 19,943
Light or Heavy: Heavy.
Rating/Spoilers/Warnings: R.
Summary: AU: Disney’s Wall-E with a J2 spin.
Why You Should Read It: This was written for last year’s j2_everafter based on Wall-E. It doesn’t hurt that Wall-E is one of the most emotionally compelling Disney movies out there, but this story does right by it. Jensen’s love for Jared is so, so sweet and there is SO MUCH awesome boy banter, and I have a total kink for Robot Love Syndrome, so Jared!Wall-E just breaks my heart in all the best places. This is one of my top 3 J2 fics.
** Lost and Found by mediaville**
Word Count: 47,000
Light or Heavy: Heavy.
Rating/Spoilers/Warnings: NC-17. Self-esteem and weight-related issues.
Summary: AU: Jensen Ackles is a shy, overweight songwriter whose body issues have prevented him from forming any real personal connections, and at thirty, he’s still unsure of his sexuality, and still a virgin. But when he signs up for an experimental obesity research program, he meets Jared Padalecki, a stunningly sexy fitness guru who slowly but surely changes Jensen’s life.
Why You Should Read It: I was really reluctant about reading this story when I got the rec because “Fat!Jensen, really?” YES, REALLY. No, in all honesty, if you take nothing on this list seriously, just take this rec seriously. It is my second favorite J2 story and by far the best one I’ve ever read. It’s emotional and wonderfully written and characterized and this Jared, he is just the best thing on the planet. His love for Jensen and his belief in him, I mostly can’t even take it. Expect to cry, and expect to not be able to get up and doing anything else until you’ve inhaled the entire story. I don’t have body weight issues, but everyone has had confidence issues with their looks at one time or another and this story is so relatable-it really hits home. Oh God, seriously, just read the fucking story.
**Malibu Jared by _mournthewicked**
Word Count: ~30,000
Light or Heavy: A mix? I’d say it’s exactly in the middle.
Rating/Spoilers/Warnings: NC-17.
Summary: AU: Jensen Ackles has a successful career, great friends, and an amazing little girl. His love life is pretty much nonexistent, but he’s okay with that. The same can’t be said for Ryan. She knows her daddy deserves all the happiness in the world, so she calls on her overactive imagination to make a wish that will change their lives forever. Jensen appreciates the sentiment, but that doesn’t make him any less surprised when he wakes up to find that not only did her wish come true, it’s sleeping in his bed.
Why You Should Read It: Written for this year’s j2_everafter and based on Life Sized. Just the prequel of this story merits a rec-it’s so hurty but so up my alley, it’s my favorite part of the story. Again, I have some serious love for Robot Love Syndrome and, okay, Jared’s not a robot, but he feels and it’s so sad until it’s just incredibly happy making. The Jensen in this story? Is probably the best person on the planet and even the kid is kind of awesome. AND MISHA, OMG. I think one of _mournthewicked’s greatest strengths is her ability to make the supporting characters awesomely engaging. This story makes my top 5 J2 stories. They’re really cute together and I love how easily the problems towards the end were solved because I hate tension just for tension’s sake and that did not happen here. It was a realistic problem that was solved without melodrama.
** Man’s Best Friend by belyste**
Word Count: ~18,000
Light or Heavy: Light
Rating/Spoilers/Warnings: NC-17.
Summary: Non-AU: Jensen gets turned into a dog. Things...happen.
Why You Should Read It: I know this sounds like crack fic, but it really doesn’t feel like it when you’re reading it. This story is funny and awesome and I love the characterizations, the jokes-I have read this story so many times I can quote huge parts of it and it has never not been exactly what I wanted to read. This is my favorite J2 story. Ever. It’s just too cute and oblivious!Jensen makes me smile. Also, I love a good Non-AU.
Open Mike Night at the Fremont by audrarose
Word Count: 27,415
Light or Heavy: Heavy
Rating/Spoilers/Warnings: NC-17. Hurt!Jensen is hurt.
Summary: AU: Set in Chicago, with Jared as a sculptor who works out of a garage and Jensen as a bookstore clerk who's trying to get over a tragedy.
Why You Should Read It: Once again, Jared Padalecki is a saint. I will just literally never get enough fics with Jared providing never-ending comfort for Jensen, because these two are my hurt/comfort pair and I read them when my soul needs a band aid. He’s just so good for Jensen and they make me really happy.
The Phone Call by standing_fic
Word Count: 1,207
Light or Heavy: Light.
Rating/Spoilers/Warnings: PG-13. None.
Summary: Non-AU: Pre-slash (could be gen) - Jared & Jensen’s first meeting, Chet the second PA from NY gets the boys to hang out for the first time, and Jared struggles with finding a new best friend and trying not to feel gay about it.
Why You Should Read It: This is just really cute. I love how hilariously nervous Jared is about every move he makes. THEY ARE SUCH BOYS.
Talking Points by winterlive
Word Count: 24,400
Light or Heavy: Heavy.
Rating/Spoilers/Warnings: NC-17.
Summary: AU: Texas state senator Jensen Ackles (D-16) is a dyed-in-the-wool idealist, a squeaky-clean boy scout, and a notorious press-dodger. His star is on the rise, and it's worth a career to get the scoop on him. The L.A. Times' star reporter Jared Padalecki might just make it to the Washington Post before his 30th birthday, if he can get the story - he'll have to go undercover and join Jensen's team. But it isn't long before the lie starts to feel like a betrayal, and Jared never expected to like his subject as much as he does.
Why You Should Read It: This is just a really smart story. I don’t usually go for politics but this was exceptionally written and compelling-it’s enjoyable if you don’t like politics, but even more so if you do. Both of the boys are really well written, flawed but good souls, and I think this does a great job of being both realistic and optimistic. Also, pretty, pretty art.
Trickle Down Our Goodbyes by gretazreta
Word Count: ~5,500
Light or Heavy: Light.
Rating/Spoilers/Warnings: G. None.
Summary: Non-AU: Jared is anxious about the future. Jensen makes breakfast.
Why You Should Read It: This is so sweet. Realistic and happy making and a nice, short read for a quick pick-me-up.
You Move Me by yourperiphery
Word Count: 10,000
Light or Heavy: Light.
Rating/Spoilers/Warnings: PG-13. Chad Michael Murray.
Summary: AU: In which Jensen is a mover, Jared is a tenth-grade English teacher, and Chad is not a fish.
Why You Should Read It: This is a fun read-wonderfully enjoyable characterizations, good relationship building between the boys. Jared is deeply flawed and yet you really get the sense that being with Jensen will make him a better person, and I find that very refreshing!
FANART:
Aladdin by fishpatrol
Drawn Art or Manip: Drawn Art.
Light or Heavy: Light.
Rating/Spoilers/Warnings: G. You may start shipping Aladdin/Genie.
Why You Should Look At It: This year’s j2_everafter art for Aladdin. It’s really precious and cracky!
Beauty by Pandora_gold
Drawn Art or Manip: Drawn Art
Light or Heavy: Light
Rating/Spoilers/Warnings: PG. Beast!Jared. Naked torso.
Why You Should Look At It: This is from last year’s j2_everafter for Beauty and the Beast and it’s really well drawn on top of being one of my favorite Disney movies. I especially like the Nap Time one with Harley and Sadie and tangled hands. So lovely. That one can be found larger here.
** Goodbye May Seem Forever by maichan808**
Drawn Art or Manip: Drawn Art
Light or Heavy: Light.
Rating/Spoilers/Warnings: PG. May be considered spoiler-y for the fic (which I highly recommend). Chad Michael Murray.
Why You Should Look At It: Art to one of my favorite j2_everafter stories this year, which was based on The Fox and the Hound. This art is just GORGEOUS. It is perfect for the story but completely enjoyable on its own. The tender way grown up!Jared kisses Jensen just makes my little heart explode. Also, the Chad is great.
** Misfortune Cookies by trolleys**
Drawn Art or Manip: Drawn Art
Light or Heavy: Light
Rating/Spoilers/Warnings: PG-13. Lude gesture and pseudo-cest. And Chad Michael Murray.
Why You Should Look At It: Drawn for last year’s j2_everafter for Freaky Friday. They’re so expressive and the technique is excellent! I love how completely this tells the story in just three or four drawings.
** Once Upon a Time… by tinkabell007**
Drawn Art or Manip: Graphic Art.
Light or Heavy: Light. Crack. So much CRACK.
Rating/Spoilers/Warnings: PG-13. Chad Michael Murray and Steve Carlson are bad influences. Sex joke. And so much crack.
Why You Should Look At It: Made for last year’s j2_everafter for Wall-E. I promise you will laugh. The first time I saw this I just could not believe what I was seeing but it make me giggle every time.
The Parent Trap by niccolite
Drawn Art or Manip: Drawn Art and some real pictures.
Light or Heavy: Light.
Rating/Spoilers/Warnings: Crack?
Why You Should Look At It: Done for this year’s j2_everafter for The Parent Trap. I don’t know, it really amused me. The first few pieces are really well done (especially the notes and stuff on the frdge! ♥) and then it’s just like “LOLWUT?” but I like it!
Test 3 by mooooong
Drawn Art or Manip: Drawn Art
Light or Heavy: Light.
Rating/Spoilers/Warnings: PG-13. Naked torso.
Why You Should Look At It: Cuddling! And JARED’S SMILE. *flails*
**Title Unknown by o-tsuki-o**
Drawn Art or Manip: Drawn Art.
Light or Heavy: Drawn.
Rating/Spoilers/Warnings: PG. None.
Why You Should Look At It: This is probably my favorite piece of J2 art I have ever seen in my life. Unfortunately, I couldn’t find a link to it on the artist’s websites and I have no idea where I found it, but I couldn’t bear not including it. It’s beautifully drawn and such a lovely moment-it feels so real and intimate and the love just shows through it so, so much. I also may have a weakness for J2 art that includes the doggies ^_^ If you join her art community, tsukis_art, you can see more of her stuff and it is just precious. There is one of them DOING LAUNDRY. *flail*
Untitled by mooooong
Drawn Art or Manip: Drawn Art.
Light or Heavy: Light.
Rating/Spoilers/Warnings: PG-13.
Why You Should Look At It: Lingering saliva will never fail to get my attention. I love how passionate this is-you can just tell they could not wait a moment longer. Formal wear and floor sex. Yes all around. And I love that this artist always exaggerates Jensen’s eyelashes.
FANVIDEOS:
**The Ballad of Jared and Jensen/Jared and Jensen Are in Love by seedyapartments**
Light or Heavy: Light
Rating/Spoilers/Warnings: PG-13. A mild Wincesty joke.
Why You Should Watch It: I wouldn’t even bother reccing this because I’d like to assume everyone who ships it ever has seen this video. But I keep meeting J2 shippers who don’t know the song. HOW CAN YOU NOT KNOW THE BALLAD OF JARED AND JENSEN, YA’LL?
**Here (In Your Arms) by Melissa**
Light or Heavy: Light
Rating/Spoilers/Warnings: PG.
Why You Should Watch It: THIS VIDEO. I watch it every time I’m feeling low and just instant smile. The song is adorable and perfect for them, and then they come in and say adorable things, and the moments the maker chose are so perfect-the way they look at each other! THEY ARE JUST SO SHINY AND ADORABLE.
FANMIX:
** J2 Fanmix by wutendeskind**
Light or Heavy: Light
Rating/Spoilers/Warnings: R.
Why You Should Listen to It: This mix has two of my favorite love songs ever (Are You Lightning? and Slow Show) on it and every time I hear either of them, I just get hearts in my eyes thinking of Jared and Jensen. The whole mix is just so appropriate to the boys and schmoopy with just a hint of uncertainty to keep it interesting (just like a good J2 fic!) The sound of it, the whole atmosphere, is just so, so Jared and Jensen to me and I adore it.
Next Up:
Remus/Sirius
In conclusion: I need more J2 fanart in my life.