#drarry rec list

[inheartofwinter]

DRARRY FIC REC

Drarry x Fandom

I have made many fic rec lists, almost always at someone's request, although I don't often post them publicly. However, there are fic rec lists I compiled simply because I like a particular troupe. I often keep copies of these lists in the notes in my phone so that I can respond quickly to a request for fic recs. Long story short, the notes pile up and now I need to delete some before I can't find anything anymore. But I don't want to just let those rec lists disappear, so I decided to share them.

The list I want to share with you today is Drarry fics in which fandom plays an important role.

- Draco Potter and the Day the World Ended (G; 3,2k) by gracefully_slytherin

Draco Potter (nee Malfoy) was known for many things.

He was a Death Eater who was acquitted of all his war crimes; he was the first Mind Healer that St. Mungo's had hired; he was the Savior of the Wizarding World's husband; and he was the popular fanfiction author sassysnakeprince on Archive of Our Own.

And life was peaceful until his beloved fanfiction website stopped working overnight. The world, it seemed, had chosen to die that day.

I'm pretty sure this is a very relatable story to many of us 🤣

- Pass the Chocolate (T; 1,6k) by @romaine2424

Harry writes a fanfic for Draco, but it doesn’t quite work out the way he planned.

- Pass the Ogden's (T; 660) by @romaine2424

Harry has the blues about h/d fandom. He thinks they're getting old.

This story is a continuation of 'Pass the Chocolate'. Once again, Harry is having problems with fandom and Draco tries to help.

- The True Veela Story (PG; 700) by Faith Wood

Draco is a veela. He has to mate with Harry or die. Naturally, he chooses to die.

- Harry Discovers Slash (E; 907) by @astolat

The obligatory the-characters-learn-about-slash story. (Harry/Draco)

- Draco Malfoy: Fangirl ( M; 3,7k) by pir8fancier

Harry discovers that Draco is a fangirl.

- Fanboy series (?; 2k) by scudeliwu

Draco is caught coming back from a fan-convention.

- Draco Malfoy is a Stupid Wanker (M; 6,8k) by @emmagrant01

During the course of HBP, Romilda Vane's crush on Harry Potter evolves into a slashy obsession with Harry and Draco. (Harry/Draco, if only in Romilda's mind...)

I would love it if you can spare some time to check these fics out and leave kudos to the authors. Honestly, some of these are so underrated even though they are so good.

Anyway, have fun reading!

[tackytigerfic]

Sending this ask to you because I've seen your comments under their fics but toomuchplor is such an insane writer, I need to rave. I've literally spent the last two months working through all the hp they've written and it still isn't enough 😭 it's all so clever and perfect and ugh I will always get overwhelmed with the joy of discovering a great author

Yes, Anon, totally agree! I think I've read most of Plor's work over the last few months, and that's one of the most exciting things about fandom to me—getting to fall headfirst into a writer's work and just enjoy every word. @toomuchplor come and get your love!

Here are links to my two favourite Plor fics:

O Come, All Ye Faithful - absolutely beautiful, tightly-written, and very moving. One of those fics I desperately wish I could have written.

I've Got a Beautiful Feeling - charming, realistic, and extremely hot long-term relationship sex. I'm a real sucker for smut that feels very in-character, and this is a brilliant example of that.

Plus, while I'm here let me drop the links to five newer Drarry fics I've loved recently (this is no way exhaustive, I've not been reading a lot and I'm sure I've missed loads, plus my brain being what it is 😅)

Crossed Wires by @skeptiquewrites - laser sharp political fic and absolutely brimming with the best sort of tension (ie sexual I SAID WHAT I SAID), Tee is the sort of writer I would love to be. By Any Other Name by @dracognition - funny and chaotic and so rich and energetic, i rocketed through this absolute delight. Nothing Gold Can Stay by @moonflower-rose - this is a heartbreaker and heart healer all at once, feels like an absolute classic to me and one of my favourite "glimpse of another universe" fics ever. Clear Skies, Full Hearts by @sorrybutblog - full of the best sort of sporting fic energy, while balancing that with gorgeously clean writing and a bone-deep sense of pining. Loved it. Heart to Hearth by @jtimu - brilliant world-building, perfect pacing, and the most organic and charming relationship arc. An absolute treat.

[getawayfox]

My favorite reclist of the year! It’s the best excuse to reread beloved fics and shout about them again. I couldn’t wait any longer to post it, so, without further ado: here are my personal favorites from 2023 and why I love them, along with a banner I’m really pleased with. 

Thank you, sweet writers, for giving us your wonderful stories. Wishing everyone a happy December and an amazing and soft new year!

I Fall On Grass by @tackytigerfic Drarry, T, 3.1k

I adore stories with mature characters and this one is no exception. It’s so charming: gentle pining over the years, throughout the realities of life and parenthood, written with such a light hand. And lovely worldbuilding of a slow life that they built for themselves, which left me smiling the whole day after reading it. It feels like a soft caress for my soul.

It’s Me or the Peacock by harrows Drarry, T, 4.6

Do you ever feel like reading a fun, lighthearted fic that will have you grinning all day? Look no further, this is the one. Picture this: established Drarry taking the plunge to move in together, except Draco is bringing his “avian third wheel” with him, adding a feathered twist to the mix. Harry can’t quite believe what’s happening and that’s not even the half of it. This fic is a delight!

Sun Shower by @moonmanatee Drarry, T, 6k

Meet Orkie (short for Snorkel), the delightful cat who loves his boy Harry very much. They share a special bond, silently understanding not to delve into the origins of their pasts. What matters most is their companionship and the comforting routine they’ve woven together. Now, enter Draco Malfoy, a fashion icon with phenomenal outfits, his mud-loving dog, Hubert, and a dash of mouthwatering culinary creations. Your heart will grow three sizes by the time you’re done reading; mine certainly did.

Birds Behaving Badly by @peachpety Drarry, E, 10.5k

Oh, this fic!! I swear my whole body was wiggling with delight when I read it – it’s hilarious and hot and so witty. Draco has a type, which leads to a fun case of mistaken identity, all artfully resolved with the intervention of a conniving seagull, Kevin. Brace yourself for some sassy Slytherin banter, side characters so vividly portrayed they’ll steal your heart (Goyle, I’m looking at you), and the enchanting backdrop of a magical Brighton in the summer. Cue the squeals of delight! 

A Saviour’s Guide to Manners and Decorum by @wolfpants Drarry, E, 13k

I have read every fic Wolf has written this year and, let me tell you, choosing just one feels like an impossible task – I wish I could include them all. But here is my pick, and it’s not because it happened to be my birthday gift. This fic is a gem, seamlessly blending humor with a soft, wistful touch (oh, and do I need to mention it’s also incredibly hot?). It resonates because Harry just wants to be accepted for who he is, refusing to change for anyone (as he rightly shouldn't!). Enter Draco, who is here to help, and not to “fix him”. Sprinkle that with a subtle hint of D/s dynamics, a generous serving of UST, and a sensual shaving scene, and you have got the perfect fic. LOVE!

I only want the ones I envy (I envy) by @porcelainheart3 Drarry, E, 13.5k

This fic is so stunning! A coming-out story with writing so clean and sharp it made me laugh out loud through (lots of) inevitable tears. It has a very competent magical inventor Draco, who wears sock garters(!). It has Harry on a self-discovery journey that feels so very real; with a heart-wrenching childhood flashback that will leave you shattered. It has the most supportive friends. It has banter and flirting and so many wonderful details (look closely at the newspaper in the fic for an extra dose of laughter). And let's not forget the most incredibly emotional blow job; talk about smut with feelings! It’s one of those fics that made me read the rest of the author’s catalog immediately (and trust me, you should too!).

A Time, Dark and Divine by @moonflower-rose Established Drarry, Draco/Ron/Harry, E, 17k

Oh boy oh boy oh boy, this fic is so scorching hot. And their dynamic is so complex: jealousy and possessiveness wrapped up in a delicious package of a boys' trip in Thailand. A stunning Ron POV filled to the brim with complicated history and tension, incredible characterization for all three of them, culminating, inevitably, in hot-hot-hot sex. I couldn’t get this story out of my head for days. If you, like me, like feelings with your smut, this one’s for you! 

Waking Up Slow by @sweet-s0rr0w and @ihopeyoubothstaysafefromharm Drarry, E, 22k

This story is so charming and whimsical! First of all, this Draco is such an utter delight that I fell in love with him right away. He’s so entertaining! The concept of Christmas in July gives the story a wonderfully atmospheric and slightly wistful tone. Add to it a very domestic and playful dynamic between Draco and Harry, top-notch dialogue, so many creative details, and an absolutely delicious and intimate sex scene. From beginning to end, this fic is so warm and touching; a gentle romance that feels as if it was enchantingly sprinkled with a cheering charm.

the first in line by @oflights Drarry, E, 29.5k

This fic is hilarious, mischievous, and sexy all at the same time. And also a little bit unhinged in the best possible way. It had me in its grip from the very first sentence: “When the clock strikes midnight on his 25th birthday, Harry is having a threesome with a werewolf and a vampire.” (chef’s kiss!) and it didn’t let me go. We have a reluctant and grumpy Veela Harry, an over-the-top Draco, summer vacation vibes, a magical yacht, wooing with a hot air balloon (and more!), plus an absolutely delightful non-monogamous background Romione. Gah!!!

Of Magical Beings Being - Magic by @rockingrobin69 Drarry, E, 30k

What’s actually magic here is Robin’s writing. It’s… wait, I don’t think I have words for how rich and full this world is, how special! There’s pining and soft angst and an unreliable narrator and exes to lovers, but somehow all that doesn’t even begin to describe what this story is. It’s witty and fascinating and soft and playful. It’s about loving the other person so much that you do the wrong thing because you think that’s what they want, even though it hurts you. It’s about manifesting them in everything you do until they come back. It’s about Love, about Happiness. It knocked the breath out of me. It’s unbearably lovely.

Winner takes it all by @skeptiquewrites Drarry, E, 41k

This fic is absolutely devastating in a sort of gentle way. My heart broke a million times for this wonderful, hardworking, cornered Draco – who’s looking after his mum – as well as for a whole bunch of beautifully written side characters. The story starts with a bet, and from there, it unravels with Tee's razor-sharp writing, infused with nuance that makes the narrative incredibly rich and undeniably real. If you're in the mood for a cathartic cry, followed by a sweet, happy ending, don't walk – run to this fic!

[thedrarrylibrarian]

Christmas 2023

One of my favorite holiday traditions it to give a book on Christmas Eve. So hopefully in time for you to cozy up before bed, here is my Christmas Eve gift to you - a rec list!

Just the Two of Us by torino10154 (200 words, rated T)

"I can't believe this is our first Christmas, just the two of us," Harry said as he placed the star on top of the Christmas tree.

Christmas Brunch by @drarrily-we-row-along (583 words, rated G)

Draco wanted to host brunch for his parents on the first Christmas in their shared flat. Harry thought that seemed like a great idea.

But the week leading up to it has been a nightmare, Draco is stressed and Harry's losing his mind. Maybe it wasn't such a good idea after all.

For Everything a Season by @shealynn88 (1,342 words, rated T)

"Our children are a joy, Harry, but I’m glad it’s just you and me.”

Harry goes soft. “Why’s that?”

“Well, many reasons. But right now, you’re under the mistletoe, and I prefer to take my time, and the children would make an awful racket if they were here to see.”

Draco Malfoy and the Cursed Sweater by @slytherco (1,804 words, rated T)

After falling victim to Harry's stupid prank, Draco finds an unexpected partner in crime.

Underneath the Tree (You'll Find a Piece of Me) by @squintclover (4,435 words, rated M)

Harry and Draco find themselves in a holiday home amongst friends at Christmas. The Secret Santa Hermione has planned is sure to go perfectly. Surely...

Even Children Get Older by @lou-isfake (4,500 words, rated M)

It started with don't wake the baby.

Snow on the Beach by tinaakitten (4,915 words, rated T)

Over multiple Christmas Eves, Harry and Draco find their way back to each other.

Featuring cute Harry Potter obsessed toddler Scorpius.

Deliberate Denial by edaniels0221 (7,244 words, rated G)

Professor Harry Potter can't help but to deny his children's ridiculous notion that he has a crush on the gorgeous new Hogwarts Healer, but as he comes to find out, one can only be in denial about liking Draco bloody Malfoy for so long.

Löyly by @citrusses (10,323 words, rated E)

Somewhere between the steam of a sauna and the icy waters of the Gulf of Finland, Harry heals from a broken engagement and a failed career. Draco Malfoy helps.

25 Additional Scenes for Ain't That the Garden of Eden by @romaine2424 (12,139 words, rated G)

The additional scenes cover missing moments in December, Harry's election, and Inauguration.

Because Cats by @icmezzo (14,589 words, rated T)

Harry has a cat, and Draco doesn’t. Then Draco has a cat, and Harry doesn’t. Then Harry has a cat again, but Draco doesn’t. Then Draco has a cat, but Harry—OMG HOW WILL IT END.

Waking Up Slow by @sweet-s0rr0w (21,941 words, rated E)

'Twas the night before Christmas, although it’s July Draco’s a shopkeeper, no-one knows why There’s hiking and witch caves, freak snowfalls and more Bad Christmas jumpers, nosy neighbours galore Narcissa’s here too, but… something’s amiss And what’s in those chocolates that’s making them kiss?

Be sure to check out @skeptiquewrites wonderful Happy Hour Rec for this fic!

All I Want for Christmas by CaityCatt (36,509 words rated M)

Harry feels like a bit of a grinch at Christmas, but his true love has a plan to change all that.

The Coldest of Days by Anonymous (54,683 words, rated E)

At thirty-one, Harry Potter finally has it all: four incredible children, a naughty Niffler named Penny, and a brilliant boyfriend who has managed to fill the hole in his heart.

But because Harry is Harry, chaos is bound to follow. On a cold December morning, Draco wakes up with no memory of the war, his children, or his life with Harry.

That, and he’s insisting that he’s been thrown fifteen years into the future.

The Art of Thank You Notes by fictionclaw (82,286 words, rated E)

A few years after the war, Harry receives a ministry notice that Draco Malfoy’s house arrest will soon be lifted and that the wand he has kept may be sent to the ministry. He doesn’t think much of it when he sends the wand directly to Malfoy Manor with a note.

But one letter swiftly follows another and Malfoy sneaks his way into Harry's every day life without either of them minding.

Or; Harry and Draco find reasons to write letters to each other and Black heirlooms and family histories are uncovered while they figure out why that is. Lunch dates, careful friendship, confusing feelings and Draco's art included.

I hope that wherever you are, you know you have a place by my fire and a place in my heart. Merry Christmas Eve to those who celebrate, and the Happiest of Holiday wishes to all!

[temnurus]

Draco Falls First Fic Recs

I made this rec list when someone in a server asked for fics in which Draco falls in love with Harry first. I love pining, & this scenario is the perfect setup for it. As a result, I had rather a lot to choose from, but here are ten that made the cut this time.

The Unbearable Burden of Caring & it's sequel Sins and Scars and Shattered Things by Tessa Crowley (E, 22,189)

Thoughts: These fics both ruined me. They were so damn good that I could have wept from the sheer beauty of the prose alone. I swear I must've spent half of them clutching a tissue in anticipation of breaking into ugly sobs every five minutes. They were romantic & beautifully poignant; even the smut was so emotionally charged that I was left spellbound. I highly, highly recommend them both.

you've got the antidote for me by Kandakicksass (E, 20,730)

Thoughts: My heart was breaking for Draco before I even got through the summary. This soulmate fic is recced a lot & with good reason. It's still one of my favorites, & I reread it quite often.

Dragon Heartstrings by JET_Playin (E, 23,825)

Thoughts: Admittedly I'm a sucker for soulmate fics, so here's another for you. I liked how the author covered Draco's experience with seeing the red strings that indicated soulmate bonds throughout the years, briefly touching on his early childhood & skipping through his years at Hogwarts before settling into the meat of the story during his & Harry's eighth year at school. This is another one that I've reread several times because I just enjoy it so much each time.

Beating Out of Time by Moss_Man_Writes (E, 73,574)

Thoughts: I was sucked in from the very beginning, & I loved Draco's POV the most. The pining on Draco's part was perfect, & watching Harry fall in love with him was just enchanting.

The Butterfly Kiss by triggerlil (T, 1,998)

Thoughts: This is the shortest of all my recs, but it's by no means less engaging. The ethereal atmosphere of the whole thing left me breathless. Draco as a butterfly was something I'd never seen before, & even though I knew fairies were sometimes viewed as butterflies by unsuspecting mortals, I never would've thought of it as a premise. It was such a gorgeous soulmate AU (couldn't help myself). Draco's pining for Harry throughout was heart-achingly beautiful, too.

The Shape of the World by bixgirl1 (E, 48,276)

Thoughts: Memory loss fics often guarantee a healthy dose of angst, & this is no exception. Harry being the one afflicted did provide the perfect setup for Draco to fall for him first, though. He was probably already a bit in love with him before he ran back into him, to be honest, haha. This is by my favorite Drarry author, & rarely is there ever a time one of her fics doesn't make it onto a rec list of mine.

The Light More Beautiful by firethesound (E, 81,255)

Thoughts: Draco was so clever & creative in this, & the way he felt about Harry took my breath away. He appreciated the exact things about him that make me love Harry so much as a character, & it was probably my favorite thing about this fic. The pining was achingly lovely, the banter & teasing were fun, & the smut was scorching hot. firethesound is one of the most popular Drarry authors to date, & this is probably my favorite fic of hers.

The Lily Spell by pickledghost (E, 86,512)

Thoughts: Okay, fair warning, this is an Omegaverse fic & the author is up front about the fact that Draco's characterization isn't standard to canon or even most of fanon. He was so sweet that I just couldn't get enough of him. It's also an AU in which there was no second war with Voldemort, & I think it had a very believable interpretation of how Harry might've turned out under those circumstances. He was still very much himself at his core, just more confident & self-assured, in my opinion. The slow burn was so well done that I didn't even notice the passage of time while I was glued to the story. It hooked me in & kept me invested from start to finish.

Pop Up Pals by bambimoss (E, 62,447)

Thoughts: I cannot believe I almost forgot to add this fic. I read it twice in a row. That's how much I enjoyed the story. Draco being so lonely broke my fucking heart. Seriously, I think someone would have to be a sociopath if they couldn't empathize with Draco's experiences here. Surprisingly, I laughed a lot at this, & I also cried like a baby at one point. The characterizations were amazing, & the fic was jam-packed with emotion. It was absolutely stunning, & nothing has managed to knock it off of my top ten favorite Drarry fics list despite some very close contenders since the first time I read it.

[hephaestiions]

author reclist: wolfpants

over the last few months, i've been devouring @wolfpants' works. ever since reading pages of you in two days, their rendering of harry, draco and a vast array of incredibly compelling side characters have irrevocably hooked me.

wolf is an author in enthralling motion. their fics often feature places, temporalities and contexts far removed from where canon holds & leaves us, while simultaneously being tenderly familiar, like coming home. wolf's sense of & grasp over setting leaves me breathless and dumbstruck. their different spatialities inform & infuse character in admirable ways, at various levels of craft, enjoyment and inspiration. this fandom knows and loves the draco and harry they give us, but we delight in discovering new dimensions & aspects of these characters. it's always done brilliantly believably, especially in the framework of the worlds they construct— a breath of fresh air in a forest where the trees still know your name.

wolf's works also demonstrate, sometimes explicitly, sometimes implicitly, a really significant political sensibility. most of their fics are set against backdrops tight with political tension bleeding into the characters' circumstances and interpersonal dynamics. whether through a spectrality haunting the narrative or the crucial central diegetic thread, wolf's works are layered, interrogating and collapsing delineations among private, public and political, between history and contemporaneity and between narrative and commentary.

in the interests of length & theme of this list, i've specifically selected some fics that, for me, showcase wolf's mastery & playfulness with setting, understood as deviations in place, time and universe. the broader recommendation is, of course, to check out everything wolf has ever written!

nightcall (E, 1k) ft. a long distance phone call

On a top secret Unspeakable misson, Harry calls Draco from a remote phone booth on the Isle of Skye.

a stunning portrait of desire, longing and familiarity that uses distance as a device to intensify every element. it's unbelievable how much character & context 1k words of (mostly) smut can pack in. the slivers of backstory demand your investment, inform the dynamic in crucial ways and set up some delicious stakes and tension. and some absolutely fantastic dirty talk. see also: @getawayfox's gorgeous art for this fic!

long haul (E, 8.6k) ft. plane rides, mile high club, nyc

The last person Harry expects to run into on a long haul flight to New York City is Draco Malfoy.

the way wolf writes movement— between places, between people— strokes its way up your spine, warms you, walks with you. draco and harry, buoyed in the air, let preconceived notions fall away, to be replaced by startlingly rapid and exquisite intimacy. the liminal settings, specifically, allow mature, open-minded, desirous characterisation & some of the most glorious, soft, tender sex to fall into like a warm bed.

look for me in the sun (M, 8.7k) ft. americana, roadtrip/on-the-run vibes

Harry and Draco are on the run in America after a mysterious string of werewolf-like attacks in the Muggle community causes the Ministry to impose new and harsh anti-werewolf legislation.

atmospheric writing dialled up to eleven, like the smell of ozone in the air before a thunderstorm. the sense of limbo— transience, out of place and time, the complication of home— that afflicts the circumstances of draco & harry here is heart-wrenching. a taut rumination on otherness in a variety of ways, rendered through some of the most tense and subtle writing i've encountered.

under giant mountains (E, 33.7k) ft. norwegian dragon reserves & rampant escapist tendencies

Harry doesn't know where he's going. Everyone else has their life paths figured out; he doesn't even know where his map is. Who'd have thought Draco Malfoy bathing in a Norwegian forest would be the guidepost Harry needed?

opens with harry, stuck in the same place for far too long, and draco, avoiding fixity like the plague. this fic looks at both stagnation and escapism as iterations of each other & treats them with the gentlest empathy. the norwegian dragon reserve setting, whose visuality wolf's writing captures beautifully, becomes the canvas to explore both. desire, here, was simultaneously so evident from the outset and took its time to build— longing tinged every interaction & payoff, in the form of a sequence of some of the most emotionally fraught sex scenes i've ever read, was that much sweeter.

romp and circumstance (E, 35k) ft. a historical au set in the 1800s, regency era england

Since the war, Harry Potter has gone from Saviour to Scoundrel—not that he’s complaining. With a schedule full of gorgeous men, alcohol, and late nights, why would he want to change? Enter Draco Malfoy: beautiful, sharp, and completely untouchable. When Draco comes to Harry with a proposition to help him attract an engagement, Harry’s up for it—after all, how hard can it be not falling for his former nemesis? Very hard, apparently.

the very first wolf fic i read, in a brief little fandom interlude back in 2022. i remember thinking, then, what an author, i'm really missing out these days. one of my favourite post-war harry characterisations— raucous, promiscuous, messy and at heart, a hopeless romantic. also one of my favourite draco characterisations— pristine, a little uptight, cool and distant and untouchable, except what he really wants is to be unbuttoned, messed up. the transforming sentiments of their relationship were so compelling, the build of harry's feelings was perfectly achey and tender and this draco was a complex, nuanced, frightfully sexy version that i just couldn't turn away from.

pages of you (E, 101k) ft. a 1980s non-magical au

Summer, 1980. Harry is floating between university and becoming a Real Certified Adult. He's not ready. He really isn't. In a desperate attempt to have the Best Last Summer ever, he takes a casual job at his godfather's bookshop in London, starts an illicit pen pal affair with a wordy posh boy that he's catching feelings for, all while dealing with the son of Sirius's business rival, one Draco Malfoy, insufferable know-it-all extraordinaire.

gosh, what a fic. sensitive and sprawling, this work brings the spatialities of london, sirius and remus' queer comfort of a bookshop and harry's room at the residence halls to pulsing, colourful, splendid life. i can still close my eyes and imagine the spaces this fic occurs in, how important they are to the push and pull, ups and downs of the dynamic between harry and draco. a coming-of-age/sexual awakening & exploration story, summer romance and queer political fiction rolled into one, this is a fic that's hard to summarise and easy to obsess over. perfect characterisations, writing that burrows into your soul and a plot that unfolds with the slow and steady depth of gentle lake.

and lastly, a fic that's on my tbr:

terrible people (E, 52.7k) ft. cruises, beach holidays and more of @getawayfox's masterpieces

What happens when Harry and Draco end up on the same Muggle gay cruise? They certainly didn't plan for it to happen (but their friends might have). They're stuck with each other for a week, they might as well make the most of it, right?

in conclusion: vivid, descriptive, immersive storytelling from an author who understands the intricacies of different narrative elements and leverages them masterfully. can't wait to read the works i haven't, and for everything wolf writes in the future!

[stationintern]

Hello all! And a great big welcome to the month of September. Lots of excitement on the horizon: school starting, holidays, etc. But, before we focus on the month ahead, let's look back at August, and the many amazing fics that helped me through it.

Let's get into 'em!

Modern Love by @tackytigerfic E, 61k

I could reread this fic weekly and probably never get sick of it. It has one of my favorite characterizations of Harry, a hot priest, and an intriguing, and layered, political side plot that'll make you think. Will rec forever. Tacky, my beloved, thank you for sharing this with us.

LA, Who Am I To Love You? by @epitomereally E, 42k for @hd-wireless 2023

I have been waiting (foot tapping, shifting in my seat) to rec this fic. I have so much love for the state of California, and this fic really captured its beauty and let you bask in it as the reader. Love Harry trying to cope with what's happened to him, love Draco on a motorcycle. Love everything about this.

Down A Hill At High Speed by @tepre E, 3.9k

I'm gonna let the notes I took directly after reading speak for themselves: Losing my mind, actually. Angry Draco. The whole thing oozes tension. It's like one of those rollercoasters that goes straight up and then drops you. Sexy, sexy, sexy.

IDK My BFF Hermione? by @letteredlettered E, 19k

This fic cracked. me. up. I love a format that gets flipped on its head, and this fic delivered. So much character packed into 19k words. Did I mention it's filthy?

Haute Allure by zeitgeistic E, 12k

Harry Potter as a fashion designer is definitely not something I thought I needed in my little life. Unbeknownst to me, it may have been the one thing I was lacking. This fic is sexy from beginning to end, and the characters are inlaid with little quirks that are just so adorable. I had so much fun reading this. Steeped in desire and Draco's tantalizing ankles.

Cut From the Sky by @mallstars E, 150k

Not your traditional timeloop fic. May have changed me a little bit. I'm gonna, once again, let my bookmark speak for itself: clawing at the walls screeching exploding things with my mind.

See ya'll next month!

[thecouchsofa]

thecouchsofa's Drarry Mount Rushmore

Born from a conversation with @mallstars a few weeks back. Behold, my badly edited personal Drarry Mount Rushmore aka my Roman Empire fics aka fics that live in my brain so deeply I should start charging them rent.

Links under the cut!

Away Childish Things by @letteredlettered (153k, T)

Harry gets de-aged. Malfoy has to help him.

Cut From the Sky by @mallstars (150k, E)

"I'm stuck in a time loop, reliving November 2nd. This is the 111th time I've lived through today."

Draco stilled. His moody eyes, the tension in his hands where he gripped onto his umbrella, the careful mask of blankness flickering over his face — everything about him was so difficult and so very dear to Harry.

"Ah," said Draco, "and?"

Draco Malfoy, It's Your Lucky Day by Faith Wood (37k, E)

Even though he's unarmed, injured, lost in the Forbidden Forest, and facing a possible murder charge, Draco Malfoy gets lucky.

Heartlines by @shiftylinguini (72k, E)

Harry never expected he’d end up chipping away at his virginity while wandless and bonded to Malfoy in Northern Europe.

He never expected that would turn out to be the least surprising thing to happen while out on their training expedition in the middle of nowhere, either.

Night With You by @the-sinking-ship (58k, E)

Draco is mortified when moments prior to departing for the most anticipated destination wedding of the year, he is cruelly dumped. But when he learns that Harry Potter has, at long last, split with his horrible boyfriend, Draco is certain his luck has changed. Never a man to squander an opportunity for revenge (and what would probably be a spectacular shag), Draco vows to make Potter his for the weekend.

Now all Draco has to do is convince him.

Star Quality by who_la_hoop (118k, E)

Two years after the war, and Harry’s content with his life. OK, so it’s a little annoying that he keeps winning Witch Weekly’s Most Eligible Bachelor award, and he’s really not looking forward to the unveiling of an enormous gold statue of himself, but he loves his friends, and he loves being an Auror. And if he yearns for something more, something he can barely bring himself to think about, well, he’ll probably get over it. No one’s happy all the time, are they?

But then everything changes, and Harry’s thrown into a new and dazzling world he’s not sure he can actually escape from. And as time goes on, he starts to wonder: does he actually want to?

The Romantic Prawn Who Loved Christmas by @bixgirl1 (39k, E)

When Draco, forced into sharing a room with Potter for the year, finds out that Potter has a sleepwalking problem, he expects the odd conversations and the weird games of chess.

What comes as a complete shock are Potter's other activities...And why he seems so intent on having Draco join him.

(Relax. It's just like a holiday Hallmark movie! ...With, uhm, sleepwanking.)

Under Giant Mountains by @wolfpants (33k, E)

Harry doesn't know where he's going. Everyone else has their life paths figured out; he doesn't even know where his map is. Who'd have thought Draco Malfoy bathing in a Norwegian forest would be the guidepost Harry needed?

In which Harry's trip to Norway to visit dragon-wrangler Ron introduces him to hikes from hell, mysterious natural magic, foraging, magical bathing, a new and bizarre friendship, and the frustrating, heady allure of his former nemesis turned sexy globetrotting field researcher.

[cavendishbutterfly]

😂 and 💯 pretty pretty please? :)

Oooh, thanks so much for your ask! I hope you don't mind that I couldn't just choose one :)

😂 A fic that made you laugh out loud

Snug by @moonflower-rose

Draco has an absolute preoccupation with Harry's penis--that's really the heart of the fic. I recently read this fic and cackled continually in my office by myself. It is just utter gleeful genius.

Always Already by @aibidil

Ill-advised time travel and eighties energy with off-the-charts banter. This is probably the fic that has made me laugh out loud the most of maybe any fic ever. Late nights on the couch absolutely wheezing to myself. What a joy.

💯 A fic that makes you think #writergoals

Far From The Tree by aideomai

Eighth year with a plot twist from the future. I recently just sat with this fic for a while and poured over aideomai's prose. The concept and plot are so electric, there's the perfect amount of detail line by line. Harry and Draco stumble so beautifully through how bad they want each other. Quiet and loud all at once.

Rich Friend by Anonymous

Famous Muggle singer Draco paired with sexy, yearning Harry. I was so damn angry when I read this fic because it was so perfect. Pacing that entices you. Funny, devastating prose. Every line punches you in the gut. Adored it.

Ask me for fic recs!

[tackytigerfic]

😊- Drarry

Hi anon, thanks so much for this one! Such a nice ask because it ties into how happy fandom has made me over the years.

A fic that made you smile on a bad day

This is an interesting one because sometimes the fics I really love also absolutely wreck me 😅 and I have an almost painfully intense emotional connection to them that makes it unlikely that I'm smiling by the end of them!

However there are some fics that I love both because they're absolutely brilliant and also deeply comforting for me in a way that doesn't hurt at all, and just makes me feel very emotionally fulfilled. I highly recommend every single one of these, and I tend to go back to them again and again when I need to feel better about things. Here is a selection of fics that never fail to make my heart lighter. I've listed them in order of word count, please check the individual fics for tags and ratings!

I, Ferret - curiouslyfic

magic in the making - @getawayfox

oxygen - @maesterchill

When the Party's Over - @sweet-s0rr0w

Marginal Notes - @blamebrampton

More Than That - joosetta

Poppiholla - @moonflower-rose

Newts - astolat

Nice Things - aideomai

What We Pretend We Can't See - gyzym

[softlystarstruck]

✩ softly reading: june 2022 ✩

welcome to softly reading, in which i list every single drarry fic i’ve read this month in hopes that you, dear reader, find a fic you like too!

✩ - a fave | 🔥 - hot | 🌼 - gentle read | purple - reread

longer reads

✩ To Vanish Into Something Better by @m0srael [E, 35k]

Harry Potter thought he could outrun the burden of infamy by isolating himself in the Muggle world. Draco Malfoy hasn’t been seen or heard from since his trial. Will a top-secret Ministry project, a beautiful garden, and a little heat carry them both home? [H/D Erised 2021]

Dirty Little Secret by @writcraft [E, 22k] 🔥

When someone threatens Harry’s life, Kingsley decides to send him to a safe house with only Draco Malfoy for company. As the two men are forced together, memories of the past resurface and secrets are discovered. [Harry/Draco Erised]

The Seventh Life by @corvuscrowned [E, 18k] 🔥🏳️‍⚧️

If Draco had looked the other way, he may never have seen him again. But Draco turned, because he always would have turned. He found him, because he always would have found him - in life, in death, or in Paris. OR: Draco is an immortal vampire. Harry is trapped in eternal cycles of life, death, and reincarnation. They meet again in Paris, and the seventh life isn't any less complicated than the first. [HD Fangfest 2022]

✩ Where I see things right by InnerLilith [E, 15k]

When Harry finds himself unexpectedly pregnant after a one-off with Draco Malfoy, he knows he isn’t keeping it. But when actually getting the abortion turns out to be more complicated than Harry expected, he finds himself turning to Malfoy for help through the process. And that’s actually much less complicated than Harry expected.

✩ embrace the deception by @swoontodeath [M, 13k]

Draco Malfoy shouldn’t feel like the stable one, not when he spends his days pretending to have clairvoyant powers and solving mysteries with Neville Longbottom. Harry Potter, however, seems to be on the edge of a breakdown, and he’s growing increasingly obsessed with his former rival. [Lights Camera Drarry 2022]

Harry Potter: DILF Hunter by @vukovich [E, 11k] 🔥

Auror Potter doesn't know what a DILF is, but if Malfoy's one, then Harry's gonna be the Ministry's best DILF Hunter ever! Or, five times Harry heard Draco was a DILF, and one time he found it to be pleasantly true.

the complete idiot’s guide to losing your entire mind by @oknowkiss [E, 10k] 🔥

A primer, by Harry James Potter, age 34. Qualifications: lived experience. OR: Draco Malfoy, Ministry of Magic Being Resources representative, accidentally invents No Nut November.

shorter reads (< 10k)

✩ Glowing by @cavendishbutterfly [T, 9.7k] 🌼🏳️‍⚧️

Harry's lived alone and vampiric in his cottage for ages, until a long-lived Draco Malfoy suddenly shows up to answer an advertisement Harry had practically forgotten he'd put in the Prophet. Cue soft blood drinking, quiet nights of reading and crocheting, and Harry thinking that maybe--just maybe--he might not be so alone anymore. [HD Fangfest 2022]

Perfect for him by anxioussquirrel [T, 8.3k]

Draco Malfoy is getting married. In a turn of events he’d never have believed possible, he is getting married to a man who’s perfect for him. Absolutely perfect.

✩ First Week of Eternity by InnerLilith [E, 7.8k] 🔥

In which Draco tries desperately to hide that he’s recently become a vampire, and Harry tries desperately to feed him. [HD Fangfest 2022]

let me be your sun by @owl-of-fandom [M, 7.8k]

“Tell me you love me.” / “Oh, darling.” The endearment falls from Harry’s lips as if the affection was his own. As if it wasn’t planted in his mind, in his heart, by me. / “I love you." [HD Fangfest 2022]

Sweet Like Candy in my Veins by @shah-writes [M, 7.6k]

In which Harry is a magical theorist with a penchant for catching vampires for the Aurors and Draco is the vampire who’s in love with him. [HD Fangfest 2022]

The First Taste by @maraudersaffair [E, 7.1k] 🔥

After being ostracized by nearly everyone after the war, Draco says yes when Harry offers him a place to stay. Perhaps he should have looked the gift horse in the mouth, however, when he discovers Harry is not all he seems. [HD Fangfest 2022]

Conversation In Café Cygnus by @ladderofyears [M, 6k]

Draco falls pregnant unexpectedly and breaks off the secret love affair that he's been having with Harry Potter. When Draco decides to keep the baby, Harry and he spend the remaining months of the pregnancy getting to know one another.

light as the sky above by @candybarrnerd [E, 5.6k] 🔥

Harry notices Draco leave. Harry’s always had one eye watching Draco, and old habits die hard. [H/D Erised 2021]

Harry Potter and the Half-Guard Prince by @swoontodeath [M, 4.4k]

Banished to the Muggle world by the conditions of his parole, Draco Malfoy is forced to learn how to protect himself without magic. The Half-Guard Prince might never show his face in his videos, but that low, seductive voice is strangely familiar… [Quidditch Fest 2022]

✩ Catch Midnight by @tackytigerfic [E, 4k] 🔥

They're the Auror/ Unspeakable team of Robards' nightmares. They're madly in love with each other, but also blindly oblivious to the fact. They can feel each other's magic. They jump out of windows. And Malfoy does a lot of watching Harry wank.

✩ Take You Made by @tackytigerfic [E, 3.9k] 🔥

"Draco didn’t believe in soulmates, but Harry Potter was the closest thing he had to one, so he was just going to keep pushing those inconvenient loving thoughts aside until one day he could learn how to get rid of them for good."

✩ Let Me Count the Ways by @thebooktopus [E, 3.5k] 🌼

Intimacy comes in many forms. Draco wants to explore them all with Harry. [HP Pride Secret Santa 2022]

Di sotto in sù by @vivantesopales [E, 3.4k] 🔥

Draco thinks it's best they stop seeing each other. Harry disagrees. [HD Fangfest 2022]

Harry’s Flower by @potteresque-ire [M, 3.2k]

Draco had always received one flower—no more, no less—from Harry every day. He never thought the flowers would run out, until Harry was critically wounded… [Harry/Draco Owlpost 2016]

Face Me (And I’ll be There to Hold You) by bluemermaid54 [E, 2.2k] 🔥🌼

They only have sex facing away from each other. Tonight, Harry wants to change that.

✩ Willing Blood by @lqtraintracks & @the-starryknight [E, 2.1k] 🔥

Seven days together, years ago; seventy-four hours and thirty-eight minutes trapped in this house alone; and now one chance to stop himself from draining Potter dry. Will Draco take it? Will Harry let him? [HD Fangfest 2022]

✩ all the small things by @tryslora [E, 2k] 🔥

Harry is not hung and Draco loves giving him head because of that. If it happens to be a way to silently say I love you that’s just a coincidence.

Fanged Delight by DrWhoIsGinnyHolmes [E, 2k]

Recently turned vampire Draco just developed his special vampiric skill: mind reading. It was now time to discover everyone's dirty little secrets, starting with Harry Potter himself. It just wasn't what Draco expected and now he has to deal with the consequences. [HD Fangfest 2022]

Painted Me Golden by @purplehotmess [M, 1.4k]

Each time I was with you, though, the chasm of yearning widened like a maw of a predator ready to chomp on my bleeding heart.

✩ What You’ve Come For by @nv-md [E, 1.3k] 🔥

It doesn't matter that Draco's a bloodthirsty vampire, Harry can't stay away from him, and they come together night after night in the Astronomy Tower. [HD Fangfest 2022]

✩ Serenity by Rasborealis [E, 953 words] 🔥🌼

After the war, Draco is broken. Harry attempts to fix him any way he can.

art gallery

✩ The flames are part of us by @pato-roldnart [G, digital art]

Harry has never had any doubt to stop and extinguish the flames and their fire wielders. After his first encounter with their leader Draco Malfoy, Harry is starting to get suspicious of the Ministry and their intentions to catch every witch and wizard that can control fire. [LCDrarry 2022]

Hidden Away by @celilasart [T, art & poem]

Your sweet blood on my red lips, / your soft skin under my fingertips. [HD Fangfest 2022]

non-drarry

✩ Best in Blue by @cavendishbutterfly [Teddy/James Sirius, E, 11k] 🏳️‍⚧️🔥

James shouldn't have messed up his knee in a Quidditch game. And he shouldn't have come back to London before it healed. He also definitely shouldn't be wandering around Teddy's flat looking that fucking attractive and lovely, but that's a different problem entirely.

previous softly reading lists

[thedrarrylibrarian]

hello! bit of a specific request but would you know of any fics that feature draco & harry exchanging snarky letters (for whatever purpose- their jobs or teddy or anything really) that get progressively less snarky and more exasperatedly affectionate? fic doesn't have to be only featuring their letters, but like initially at least the exchanges between draco & harry are solely via post

Is there anything more romantic than taking the time to write a letter? Even if it is sent out of annoyance, you had to take time to find pen and paper, sit and write your thoughts, sign off and sign your name, then find postage and send it.

I hope you enjoy these epistolary (one of my favorite words) fics. And if you feel up to it, send a friend a letter for the joy of it.

Epistolary

Mislaid Owl Post by (801 words, rated G) by @thelionessroyal

A trainee owl keeps bringing letters to Hogwarts Potions Master Draco Malfoy instead of their intended recipients, leading to a rather annoyed Malfoy and amused Potter sending letters back and forth. Maybe they should thank the poor owl for his efforts...

Yours, Draco by @drarrytrash (3,505 words, not rated)

All that's left are 15 letters, and then those are gone too.

I Just Want You to Know by @crazybutgood and @sugareey-makes-stuff (3,949 words, rated T)

After a Potions accident leaves Harry and Draco without a verbal filter, they have no choice but to communicate with each other through letters. Forced to work together to catch up and complete their Potions project on time, secrets they have both been withholding eventually spill out along the way.

Famous Last Words by drarrymadhatter and @ladderofyears (6,298 words, rated M)

When unsigned love letters addressed to him begin spontaneously appearing around the castle, Draco is not amused. In an effort to make them stop - or at least to make them stop appearing in public places with permanent sticking charms - he writes back.

Handling Snakes by @potter-loves-malfoy (7,074 words, rated T)

Draco Malfoy is content with his life as a psychologist in the Muggle world. Sure, the tube is a nightmare, and it would be nice to use magic without worrying about being discreet, but it's good for the most part. When he starts treating a client for their fear of snakes, he realizes that his safe, comfortable, Muggle life won't be that way for long. It really doesn't help that he might have a slight aversion to snakes. There's no avoiding it now; he needs Harry Potter. Only for his snakes, of course.

To Auld Acquaintance by @cavendishbutterfly, @corvuscrowned, @sorrybutblog, @fictional (8,326 words, rated T)

After Draco returns from a stint in Paris, neither Harry nor Draco seem to know how to talk to each other. As usual, they make it literally everyone else's problem.

Featuring: texts, letters, emails, and further shenanigans.

Per my last letter (I hope you choke on it) by @fluxweeed and @lastontheboat (10,258 words, rated T)

Dear Mr Potter, The answer is, and will remain, a no.

Sincerely, Draco Malfoy Accounts Manager, Phoenix Press

How to Fool Your Friends (And Get a Boyfriend in the Process ) by @famoustruth and @orpheous87 (10,332 words, rated T)

Fed up with their friends trying to set them up, Harry and Draco decide to pretend to be a couple in public. They plan their every move through their letters, but what they didn't plan for were the very real feelings that make themselves known.

Yours Truly by @skeptiquewrites (14,848 words, rated M)

Every single one of Harry’s exes has gone on to marry the next person they date, and with the upcoming nuptials of numbers six and seven to each other, Harry’s feeling exhausted by it all. It doesn’t really matter if he lets people assume Draco Malfoy is his boyfriend for a moment of peace. In any case, Draco’s been away for five years and there’s no way he would find out, right?

There are many benefits to being a marine biologist by @tedahfromtayla (19,088 words, rated T)

There is something about Harry that constantly calls Draco back to Britain. No matter how far he tries to run, he can't outrun his stubborn heart, or the history of his family.

Bonne Foi, Draco Malfoy by @badwolfblues (19,399 words, rated E)

At twenty-five, Draco Malfoy has to return to England to do something about the Manor, and Harry Potter won’t leave him alone. His years-old crush on Potter is reignited over repairs, mermaid lemonades, and pocket owl messages.

Butterflies in Winter by Justlikewriting (19,725 words, rated M)

Of course Harry had known that Malfoy’d been sent to Azkaban, but, to be honest, since the trials Harry hadn’t really thought of the git at all anymore. A random visit to Slug and Jiggers was about to drastically change that, though.

And whose exactly were those letters that Harry found there?

Dear Stranger by @iero0 (22,751 words, rated T)

The one thing more pointless than falling in love with an anonymous wizard over a correspondence is falling in love with Harry Potter when you’re Draco Malfoy.

*Check out the Happy Hour rec of this fic by @ladderofyears

All Things Go by @sorrybutblog (32,826 words, rated E)

Draco’s back at Hogwarts by court order. Harry’s back for no particular reason at all. Some things change, some stay the same. Neither expects to spend eighth-year living in close quarters, playing rugby (poorly), staying up late, sneaking around, and finally figuring it all out.

The Art of Thank You Notes by fictionclaw (82,232 words, rated E)

A few years after the war, Harry receives a ministry notice that Draco Malfoy’s house arrest will soon be lifted and that the wand he has kept may be sent to the ministry. He doesn’t think much of it when he sends the wand directly to Malfoy Manor with a note.

But one letter swiftly follows another and Malfoy sneaks his way into Harry's every day life without either of them minding.

Or; Harry and Draco find reasons to write letters to each other and Black heirlooms and family histories are uncovered while they figure out why that is. Lunch dates, careful friendship, confusing feelings and Draco's art included.

Save the Date by @mallstars (122,954 words, rated E)

In the twelve years after the war, Harry attends sixteen weddings. As friends and acquaintances vow their lives to one another, he watches quietly from the sidelines. Step by step, Harry pieces himself back together, builds a life from the wreckage of his past and falls, slowly and thoroughly, for Draco Malfoy.

A story told in sixteen parts, of patient and transformative love, of queerness, of reaching out and holding on. Featuring plenty of pining, Gilderoy Lockhart getting married in a fever dream of glitter and product placement, and Rita Skeeter spitting a steady stream of venom at Harry and Draco's every move.

❤️ As always, if you find a fic you enjoy, please remember to leave the author a kudos or a comment! ❤️

[temnurus]

Drarry Case Fic Recs

So there are eleven of these instead of the usual ten I typically try to keep my lists at, but I just couldn't pick one to cut! The first is the only non-smutty one. It's absolutely brilliant, so I didn't even miss the hanky panky. Okay, fine. Only a little bit. They're in no particular order, as each one is gorgeous, and you should read each and every one of them. Well? Go on, read them!

Each Breath My First by laughingd0g (T, 46k)

Thoughts: The characterizations were dazzling, particularly Draco's. I loved his quirks, and the descriptions of his cottage were delightful. I found the curse damage Harry suffered from as fascinating as it was heartbreaking. The case was engaging, and the suspense was super intense! I loved the slow burn. This is an amazing read by an overall dazzling writer.

Chasing Shadows by manixzen (E, 93k)

Thoughts: This is an incredible case fic. The murder mystery evolves into something so rich in detail that it blows my mind how the author kept up with all the threads of the plot. Harry being closeted hurt me down to my soul. Just.. the way he gave in to the expectations of others and never lived for himself. Twenty years. That's a long time to be lonely and consumed with a job that makes you miserable. I felt for him, and the fact that the author could write it in such a way to bring out such vivid emotions is incredible. The ones that make people feel deeply are the best kinds of stories, and that's what they've created here. Read this. Both the fic and the fan art that comes with it are absolutely gorgeous.

Life Lessons by bixgirl1 (E, 68k)

Thoughts: This was brilliant. The background plot of a shadowy figure menacing the Slytherins was engaging, and the side characters were brilliant, my favorite being Greg Goyle. Harry and Draco's chemistry was off the charts, and the snark and banter are everything I've come to expect from a bixgirl1 fic. The rimming scene was the hottest one I've ever read, so there's a ton to look forward to in this!

And an Owl Named Romeo by Rickey (E, 26k)

Thoughts: I love a good epistolary fic, and this was absolutely delightful. I loved the way Harry kept coming back to see Draco and kept writing to him even when he was rebuffed by a very prickly and standoffish Draco. Their characterizations were fantastic. Romeo was an absolute riot, and I loved him to pieces! The magical theory involved in owls and mail-carrying was really neat, and I thought it was cool how it fit into the case. And speaking of the case, the drama really came through as well! This made me feel all the feelings, and it was so wonderfully written and enjoyable.

Serpentes by xErised (E, 29k)

Thoughts: This was so fucking good. It was hilarious and intriguing and had me hooked from the very beginning. I read it in one sitting, and I was bereft when I got to the end because that meant there wasn't any more of it! Bacon was my absolute favorite thing about the fic. He stole the show and my heart. The case itself was heartbreaking with what they were doing to those poor snakes, but it sure did keep the tension high. I won’t say anymore except to assure you that the dancing and the smut were both hot as fuck and definitely worth checking out. Read this!

All the Earnest Young Men by Tepre (E, 29k)

Thoughts: Draco was perfect in this, maddening and insufferable and utterly insecure underneath. He drove everyone around him mad, including Harry, who avoided him like the plague. I enjoyed the time skips. It was an interesting and engaging way to experience the story. I loved Draco's clumsy attempts to make friends with Harry, and them at the museum was a riot. I laughed so much at this fic, but it was also full of such poignant moments between Harry and Draco. The intimacy of the sex scenes was breathtaking. Another favorite, for sure.

Kaleidoscope by Saras_Girl (E, 104k)

Thoughts: This was so insanely good, and I can't adequately express how much I enjoyed it. The pining was so potent in this that I felt the ache in my chest throughout the entire fic, and Harry's characterization was so damn good that it alone made me want to cry. Him rambling around in Grimmauld Place tending to his plants and sharing his home with Calliope and Patrick made for such a cozy and domestic scene even while Harry practically oozed longing for Draco from his very pores. I won’t spoil the plot, but this is my favorite Saras_Girl fic since Turn. It is a must-read, no doubt about it.

The Light More Beautiful by firethesound (E, 81k)

Thoughts: Draco was so clever and creative in this, and the way he felt about Harry took my breath away. He appreciated the exact things about him that make me love Harry so much as a character, and it was probably my favorite thing about this fic. The pining was achingly lovely, the banter and teasing were fun, and the smut was scorching hot. I loved everyone's rivalry with the famous Agnes from the Floo address department, and both Harry's and Draco's battle for approval of their department acronyms had me dying of laughter. This fic was fantastic and definitely worth a read.

A Sword Laid Aside by korlaena (E, 128k)

Thoughts: This fic is a gem. It is utterly original in both idea and execution. I love the fact that the author went with older versions of Harry and Draco than I usually see in fics, and I adore how they nurture each other throughout their ordeal on the run. Absolutely fantastic.

Cauldron Full of Hot, Strong Love by aibidil (E, 80k)

Thoughts: This approached the issue of consent so well, and I love it when fics make me think as much as they entertain me. This did both in spades. Hermione was a fucking rock star in this. I almost enjoyed her more than Harry and Draco, tbh. But I still loved them, of course! The switching perspectives made for a rich and intense bit of story-telling. It just really enhanced the whole thing. The arguments both for and against the use of love and lust potions, the fight to make them illegal, and then everyone dealing with the ongoing harassment Hermione and her loved ones were experiencing all made for a compelling read.

Harry and Draco's rocky relationship taking place throughout all this was so fun to see develop. Their banter was amazing. I loved the tension, and it only made the release all the sweeter when it finally happened. The many moments of levity throughout the fic were what surprised me the most. I didn't expect to laugh as much as I did for a fic that covered such heavy topics, but it was rife with humor.

A Lick and a Promise by tackytiger (E, 55k)

Thoughts: The characterizations were phenomenal, and the outpouring of emotion inherent to the author's style was so present throughout this. I found the case fascinating, and the magical theory involved behind both the stolen magic, how vampirism worked here, and the sentience of Hogwarts had me hooked and so utterly impressed by the author's creativity. Harry and Draco's banter was excellent, and their passion made my toes curl delightfully. Highly recommend.

[teacup-tai]

Tai recs: July readings

Hear, hear. June was a month used to finish writing my pansmione fic for the amazing @hpwlwbigbang. BUT JULY, oh my, July has been a marvel! I spent half of the month on vacations with my family and engaged in beach readings that soothed me deeply. And then, my family left and I felt lonely and empty. As always, I spent the last 2 weeks stress reading in order to not feel the sadness.

I'm bloody thankful to the wonderful writers and podficcers who made this adaption to loneliness a easier proccess. Your stories and voices made me the most wonderful company I could ask for. And the level of creativity and skill in all the fics I'm adding to this list was so high and so marvellous, that I'm a bit speechless. I honestly have no idea how to put together a coherent sentence to explain how incredible the stories I'm listing here are. They completely enchanted me, and made me love, laugh, cry and enjoy my lonely time with so much gratitude.

Thanks so much, dear authors and narrators, you are bloody perfect and you made me so much company this month!

DRARRY

In the Bleak Midwinter (E, 105k) by @the-fools-errand

After serving in the border wars for the ever-expanding dominion of Lord Voldemort, Draco and his cousins have returned to Hogsmeade to resurrect the old Black Family name in crime. But when a shipment of wands bound for the front lines falls into their possession, they find themselves at the centre of an investigation backed by the Dark Lord himself. Draco’s ambitions lie far beyond the borders of Hogsmeade, however, and he won’t let anything get in his way – except maybe a bespectacled newcomer to town, who knows more about the missing wands than he’s letting on.

You Look the Way I feel (E, 108k) by @yourdifferentoctober

Draco returns for his eighth year at Hogwarts in an attempt to salvage whatever he can of his future. His plan: sit as many N.E.W.T.s as possible, distance himself from the Malfoy name, and keep out of trouble. Of course, with his father on trial and at risk of unthinkable punishment, not to mention the anxiety-fueled "episodes" that have been plaguing him since summer, the school year doesn't go so smoothly. Especially when Harry Potter keeps seeking him out.

I Won't Let You Fall Apart by anonymous @hd-wireless (M, 49k)

Harry has spent the year after the war staying out of the public eye, dodging political battles, and standing firm against pressure from his friends. But he has a secret plan to get away from it all. He just needs to testify at one more Death Eater trial: Draco Malfoy’s. Little does Harry know what his act of compassion will cost him—and Malfoy.

Star Quality by who_la_hoop (E, 118k)

Two years after the war, and Harry’s content with his life. OK, so it’s a little annoying that he keeps winning Witch Weekly’s Most Eligible Bachelor award, and he’s really not looking forward to the unveiling of an enormous gold statue of himself, but he loves his friends, and he loves being an Auror. And if he yearns for something more, something he can barely bring himself to think about, well, he’ll probably get over it. No one’s happy all the time, are they? But then everything changes, and Harry’s thrown into a new and dazzling world he’s not sure he can actually escape from. And as time goes on, he starts to wonder: does he actually want to?

My Big Fat Weasley Wedding (E, 65k) by @slyth-princess

A decade after the war, Harry Potter is lost. There was a time when he knew exactly who he was, where he was going, and what he wanted. He is not that man anymore. Until one day he decides he is done. No more wearing clothes that don't fit, stuck in a job that was meant to be temporary, and simply coasting through his life. He has a plan. And, unsurpisingly, every single Weasley and honourary Weasley seems to have an opinion about it. But it's fine. Harry knows he is doing the right thing. What he didn't plan for, however, was to find love in the most unexpected place. And with the most unexpected person. Still, it's going to be fine. Like he said, he has a plan. Weasley opinions be damned. He's got it all under control. Doesn't he?

Two to Lie and One to Listen (E, 84k) by @fluxweeed

It’s weird when Hermione announces that she and Ron have broken up. It’s weirder when this is followed by the revelation that she’s already moved on—and the new object of her affections is Draco Malfoy. Things only get worse from there.

Vis-à-Vis-à-Vis (E, 50k) by @vukovich

Harry's assignment was simple. Close out Draco Malfoy's missing persons case so he can be declared dead. But who's making withdrawals from Malfoy's vaults? How is a death omen-turned-Unspeakable involved? Is an organization known as the Moirai to blame? Harry brushes it off until he can't. Until The Prophet is flooded with sightings of dead people. Until Robards throws himself on his sword. Until Ron turns on his own family. Until Harry scarcely trusts his own reflection in the mirror and trusts the stranger in his bed even less. Until all that stands between war and peace is Harry, a name plate, a stadium of murderers, and Draco Malfoy. God save the Ministry.

The Kisses Don't Count, If No One Else Knows (E, 41k) by oldenuf2nb

Minister for Magic Harry Potter does not love his job. The one bright point in his life is his secret relationship with Quidditch Super Star Draco Malfoy. When they're 'outed' by a peeping tom with a camera, Harry has to decide what's really important.

Draco Malfoy and the Crupnapper (E, 35) by oakstone730

Life as a night shift creature keeper is scarcely the life Draco once imagined for himself, but ten years after the death of Voldemort he’s accepted his fate. Until the day Harry Potter forces his way back into Draco’s world and everything turns upside down.

Plausible Deniability (T, 10k) by Bearixt

“Harry, being released to you is simply an opportunity that arose from this—one that I will grab while I can. You call the shots; I just give my expert advice. You want to catch this copycat, don’t you?” “One Draco Malfoy in this world is already enough,” Harry mutters. Staring straight at him, he crosses his arms. “That’s it? No tricks, no hidden agendas?” Draco raises his hands. “You’re right. Christmas and New Year were boring, and I can’t imagine celebrating my birthday here when I can be out partying.” “I won’t let you out just so you can have fun, Malfoy. You’re a criminal.”

We can be Pirates (M, MCD, 265w) by @erajakira

What is it like to lose the war... Or Draco's delirious ramblings at the very end.

[Podfic] Sealed With a Kiss by Faithwood, narrated by Jocunda Sykes (E, 5h)

Harry Potter will fall in love with the first person who kisses him. Draco knows what he must do.

[Podfic] The Crane Lord of Gringots by @vukovich , narrated by Anonymous @hd-wireless (E, 4h)

Harry is fine. Being an Auror is fine. Living with Ginny is fine. It's all fine. But it used to be a lot better.

[Podfic] Thirst by @fluxweeed narrated by @lastontheboat (E, 31min)

The path of Malfoy’s scent is obvious; Harry hasn’t fed for days, so his senses are sharp. Deadly. And Malfoy smells so good.

[Podfic Series of pir8fancier's Lettered universe]:

Part One: Lettered narrated by Jocunda Sykes (E, 49min)

Harry has a secret penpal, whose identity is as plain as the nose on his face. Except he's not wearing his glasses.

Part Two: Lush Life narrated by Jocunda Sykes, Jet_pods, kittona, LenaReads, Ravin_Pods, UnholyCrowle, bluedreaming (E, 2h13min)

Draco is now the editor of a gay men's porn magazine and living in NY. His self-imposed exile from England is about to end.

Part Three: Home Again, Home Again (E, 2h30min)

Snarry Pods

[Podfic] Marks by florahart, narrated by Jocunda Sykes (G, 30min)

Harry's a computer science student, but he needs a writing credit to qualify for an internship. All the writing classes are full, so he ends up in Snape's lit class as a substitute. Snape has a reputation as a hardass, but it can be said that no one passes his class without learning to write, so that meets the requirement, and then, once Harry starts working on that, it turns out they have something else in common.

[Podfic] Aftermath by Avioleta, narrated by Jocunda Sykes (E, underage, 2h)

They’ve always been connected. After all, there’s too much history, too much magic between them. And while Severus never expected to survive the war, now that he’s alive, he thinks it makes some sort of strange sense that he’d be here with Harry Potter.

[Podfic] Final Examination by asecretchord, narrated by Jocunda Sykes (Not Rated, 2h)

"Is this some sort of test?" "Everything that doesn't kill you is." "Mind you," he added, "surviving doesn't always mean you passed." ― Michelle Sagara West

[Podfic] Miles to Go Before I Sleep by pluperfectsunrise, narrated by Jocunda Sykes (M, 1h)

For fourteen years after the war, Harry Potter and Severus Snape dance once a year on the winter solstice at a Ministry ball.

[Podfic] Witing to Divide by orphan_account, narrated by Jocunda Sykes (E, 2h)

Harry always thought soulmates were the domain of overly soppy romantics. What he didn't realise was that they were very real, very dangerous and very inconvenient... especially when your soulmate is the very dead Severus Snape. Fortunately, with the help of his friends and a Time Portal, he's able to get past that pesky obstacle... and finds his life completely changed.

Bonus: Pasmione micro

Fondness (T, 580w) by @erajakira

"It's a crush. Pansy knows it’s not anything deeper than that. It’s not passionate or consuming, it’s not guttural or necessary; it’s not even remotely sexual in any way."

I have no clue how I managed to read and listen to so many stories. lol Happy readings! Thanks again to my dearest creators!

Previous lists: March | April | May

[stationintern]

Well, hello there! September has flown by, and I have to say, it was a month. Not the worst, but certainly not the best. In the end, I was not able to read as much as I would have liked, but I managed to scrape together a few delicious fics for you, my beloved mutuals and anyone who happens to come across this reclist (you're my beloved, too!)

Enjoy these fics I've gathered for your October gobbling.

Enterrement de vie de garçon by @wolfpants E, 2.7k

Am I starting a Drarry reclist with a Ron/Viktor fic? Yeah, I am. There's still a solid dose of Drarry in here. There's a solid dose of everyone, actually, and it's amazing. I will forever have the phrase "the gay circle of life" imprinted on my brain. Sexy, hilarious, and incredibly fun.

Scenes from a life by @aideomai E, 33.3k

This is a sequel to Such Great Heights, which is a fantastic fic in and of itself. But, this extended epilogue is just so lovely I decided to rec it on its own. There are a few moments in here that I go back and reread when I need something quick that I know will instantly lift me up. Getting to see the characters aideomai created in the initial fic continue developing and settling into various stages of life brings such comfort and warmth, and I just can't get over how beautiful this entire epilogue is. Some of the funniest moments I've ever seen in fic lie in here, and every time I reread I find something new to love.

Two Weeks by @shiftylinguini E, 21.9k

I've been turned to jelly. A fuck or discomfort fic, if you will. I really, truly, don't think I've ever met a hornier Harry. An adorable Harry & Ron dynamic. Draco is very, very sexy. The parallels between the Magical medical world and the real life one are hilarious, and give you a good chuckle if you've ever been given a pile of pamphlets by your therapist.

Semiplume by @tackytigerfic T, 923

I'm furthering my tackytiger agenda. Very cute and domestic, with beautiful descriptions of everything going on inside Draco's head. Dispels the rumors that Scorpius came from an egg. Though, I did enjoy the debates surrounding that. Harry eats crisps.

Terrible People by @wolfpants, @getawayfox E, 52.8k

Once again, I am reccing two wolfpants fics in one list. I loved getting to follow along as this fic came out, and plan to read it again (and again.) Gay cruises, healer Draco, and stunning art. What else could you want?

Five Weddings and a Potions Accident by @lauren3210

Five weddings, a potions accident, and a scrumptious twist.

Alas, we have reached the end. I sincerely hope you found something new, or that I have reminded you of a past favorite that you can revisit. Until November 1st, friends.

xx, Moon.

[ghaniblue]

It's time for July favourites. Most of my fic reading this month was done for @hp-bodiceripper and boy howdy do we have some amazing fics, art and podfics in store for you. ❤️ Anyway, Drarry fics and podfics I enjoyed this months. I've also been reading an incredible fic about the Black brothers, but that one deserves its own post.

Drarry Fic

Cut Me Open (and use me) by @triggerlil | Drarry, E, 3k

Draco is the heir to the throne of England. Harry is a nobleman who wants to reclaim his honour. Somehow, these two things are intimately linked. Enter a sword, a dagger, and the hands of God, and you have a story about two men with tongues like knives, learning to lick love off sharp edges.

Royal AU and knife kink and blood play and Harry being a bit of a pain slut (and incensed about it). Dear sweet baby jesus.

In Pieces by @m0srael | Drarry, E, 4k 🏳️‍⚧️

Draco nods. “I need to know that my body can feel good again. I need to know that I can feel pleasure how I want to feel it, and…and make you feel pleasure with my body. I need to know that I can ask it to do things and that it will comply, and that it will feel good.” His expression is shattered and needy, and Harry kisses away the worry lines crinkling his forehead. “I n-need to know that you can ask me, tell me to do things and I can choose to do them. Please, Harry.”

I was lucky enough to beta this and it flayed me open. I love how much they love each other. This is high emotion smut in the best way: so tender and passionate and scorching hot.

Drarry Podfics

This Summer written by saras_girl, read by @thirdeye1234 | Drarry, T, 3:40h

This is a summery romantic comedy featuring my favourite ensemble cast, in which Harry is confused, Draco is Draco, and Hermione attempts to eat all the things.

The sweetness and charm of the story is brought out perfectly by RattleandHum. This is the perfect comfort podfic for a balmy summer day.

Harry Potter and The Incredibly Organized Personal Assistant written by maegyal, read by hananobira | Drarry, T, 21:37min

Harry Potter's new assistant is snarkily organized.

There's a quality to hananobira's voice that is just so charming. This made me smile.

(Un)wanted written & read by @aibidil | Drarry, (Harry/Ginny), E, 4h

Ginny's pregnant, then she's not and Harry's single. Harry, again with no family, doesn't know what to do with this turn of events, or how to find a new life—post-war, post-Ginny, post-abortion—in which he belongs. He doesn't expect that life to include dancing to the Backstreet Boys with Hermione and Draco Malfoy. A story of finding belonging in the unexpected.

I always enjoy aibidil podfics: her reading is relaxed but expressive, and her voice so warm. I love how Ginny's abortion is handled, and how this plays into Harry's trauma and issues with self worth. For all that there's a lot of emotional mess and sadness here, this is also very sweet: with Harry&Draco falling together unexpectedly, lots of video games and a lovely Harry&Hermione friendship.

June Favourites