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Date Posted: 00:15:39 03/29/03 Sat
Author: PJzallday
Author Host/IP: px1so.cg.shawcable.net / 24.71.223.140
Subject: Re: Review of the B/A selection: The College Years
In reply to: morgain 's message, "Review of the B/A selection: The College Years" on 10:46:52 03/24/03 Mon

I thought generally this was a well plotted out work, clearly built on a strong foundation of the Jossverse (encompassing both BtVS and AtS).

Although there were many aspects/plot points taken from both shows, the author varied the outcomes in plausible and unique ways. I found the use of elements from the two shows both interesting/effective and at times overwhelming. On the positive side, I appreciated a realistic reconnection of Angel and Buffy --- taken from season 4 BtVS/season 1 AtS: Doyle's vision of Buffy in danger. I thought the variation of Angel's post-Mohra-demon attack visit to the Oracles was well done --- having him remain human but them suggesting he could still have a purpose/help Buffy. On the other hand, the involvement of some of AtS' other characters (and even the return of Doyle toward the end), Ethan Rayne's cameo and the introduction of so many new characters seemed a bit much to me. (Kinda like season 7 BtVS ;-) with SITs running amuck.) The end was rather confusing ---- not quite Restless-confusing, mind you, but leaning that way. (I assume that was the author's intention, but for me that detracted from the story a bit.)

Also, I didn't see a reason to resurrect Darla. (On the show it made sense because of W&H's desire to lure the vampire with a soul to their side --- but being that Angel was no longer a vampire... Hmm... come to think of it, in this story Angel was actually mentioned by name in the prophecy. Perhaps it doesn't matter that he wasn't a vampire anymore???)

The author's poking fun at cliché-ness of the actual TV-version of the Initiative warehouse was well done. I chuckled through that bit.

In my view, the author has a strong knowledge of the characters as well as the ability to develop an unique and well-thought out storyline. Dialogue and behaviour was believable pretty much all around (though the repetitiveness of "beloved" did come off a little... odd).

I was intrigued by the Huntsman mythos/lore, by the behaviour of Jackson King and his interaction with Buffy. I admit, though, I did groan when after Buffy killed King, the Huntsman chose Angel as its new host. (I was rather interested in seeing what might happen with Faith and King, but...) Also, I couldn't understand why after such a primal encounter between B/K, there didn't seem to be a more powerful primal "connection" *nudge nudge wink wink* between B/A. (That they were both able to control those more base instincts with each other seemed... strange and perhaps even disappointing.)

There were some errors in punctuation/grammar/syntax --- more noticeably in the latter sections of the story --- but nothing which seriously impeded understanding or enjoyment of the work.

On the whole I thought this was a very good fic, representative of what I think the Buffyverse is about. While still being "'shippy", it didn't exclude the actual "Slayer" aspect of BtVS's base.

83/100

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Replies:

[> Hey I made it finally! -- Chani, 14:40:16 03/29/03 Sat (curie.noos.net/212.198.0.93)

It was very long, but I enjoyed this story.

First I have to say that I loved the first chapters! This beginning was great! I've always thought that the Cow isn't used enough in fanfictions.

The story was well built and the plot has been followed logically, though I think that Angel turning into human was too much sudden. Something doesn't fit in there.

The idea of the Huntsman was refreshing and quite plausible...I can see the CoW doing something like that! The character of Jackson King was really intriguing (I really liked the Huntsman/Slayer bond stuff...)and his encounter with Buffy...WoW!

I also liked the way Riley has been portayed and I enjoyed that the author went deeply into the Initiative stuff.

I liked that Angel had to deal with his new humanity and had to ajust to the changes...Actually I can't watch Ats well in France (they have aired the two first seasons with many missing episodes here!)so I haven't seen IWRY!).

As for the things I disliked....Too many characters who weren't necessary for the main plot IMO. The confusing ending doesn't fit in the whole story...I was really disappointed in the end...Above all I have been disappointed by the B/A ship! I expected more emotions, someting more intense and more romantic. The characterization was good except for Angel...

However I think it's a very good fic and I recommend it!

85/100


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