Some of my favorites Part 2

Part 1 is here

Continued... there are sooo many good ones out there but some don't get as much attention as they should. I try to read non-reheats (just following along with the story) and enjoy character studies, magical realism, off the wall AUs and well-written smut, in case you were wondering if you'll like what's on my list!).

Blizost by princepixel - A hit on the ice knocks Ilya's consciousness out of his body and into Shane's. They are forced to share a body and thoughts. It's fun and funny and serious and such a good exploration of them when they are forced to hear each other's thoughts. This one has gotten a fair amount of attention but it's God-tier for me so couldn't not mention it.

now you're speaking my language by wambachumba - Criminally underrated and under-read. I feel like I'm in a special secret club of people who got to read this. I want people who don't even know who Shane and Ilya are to read this and enjoy it. Heartbreakingly romantic. Gorgeous. A quiet exploration of their hookups - every time they see each other Shane has a new, meaningful flower tattoo that Ilya wants to explore.

Vessel by medric - They're both lobstermen in a made-up New-England-ly little fishing village. Brokeback Mountain meets The Perfect Storm meets Hollanov. Fun use of mixing the side characters in. No explicit scenes but still plenty of longing and angst.

anything you can do, i can do better by thebiggestrat - They make a pre-tuna-meltdown bet that Shane can make Ilya come untouched via Shane topping him. I have such a soft spot for Bottom!Ilya and this one has pathos, great character work and (eventually) good communication, so if that's your kink, this is for you. Also I got a masters degree in gender & sexuality in the comments (in the absolute best way).

mirage by ann_sable - Another secret club I get to be in - under 300 kudos for one of my like top 5 all timers. Ilya randomly figures out he can turn back time and thinks he'll go back and save his mother, but he gets distracted (emotionally) on a nothing night with Hollander in the sex condo. It's super dreamy and sad, but also hopeful and not specifically about Ilya's depression, but it definitely is.

get him back! by fairlies - Shane makes a wayward birthday wish that sends Ilya hurtling into an alternate universe where he has to go win his husband over in a world where the never hooked up at the CCM shoot. This one has gotten a decent amount of attention but it's SO GOOOOOD.