Merlin recs

Merlin/Arthur

Camelot’s Sweethearts by mariana_oconnor [R] (63k)
Summary: Arthur is a film star, Merlin is his personal assistant who might, possibly be head over heels in love with him. However, Arthur’s more interested in his ex, Morgana, and then the mysterious Sophia to notice… Oh, and Will is awesome.

A fabulous modern AU set in the Hollywood scene – which could get old, but doesn't. Not when you are talking 63k of well plotted, well characterized fic. It is easy to get lost in the story and forget that it's a trope. Both Arthur and Merlin are fabulous in this. Merlin's has been Arthur's PA for going on 3 yrs, and is quite good at it (while still being Merlin). A very long fic that I just could not put down for minute (yes, one of those I read while washing dishes).

Tristan & Isolde by Anna [R] (17k)
Summary: When King Mark, Queen Isolde and the knight Tristan come to Camelot, Arthur learns what true love really means.

This fic intertwines the tale of Tristan &Isolde with a basic M/A plot, and uses it as a sub-plot as well. Really neatly done. However – I didn't know the tale of Tristan & Isolde going into this fic and I ignored all the stuff in italics because it confused me. *is simple minded* But even without the connection to the original tale, the fic was an excellent exploration of jealousy, loyalty and true love. Do you give up the one you love so they can be with the one they love? Does true love justify all actions? An excellent fic about honour and love and loyalty.

ART
Wrapped In Warmth by lizardspots [NC-17]
Summary: A bearded King Arthur molesting nubile smooth-skinned Merlin in his royal bed.

I'm sure this is new to no one but me, yet I stumbled on it this morning and how could I not include it? I've devoured all of lizardspots' art since entering this fandom (and in HP before that). I could spend forever clicking through this artist's masterlist. And I have, truth be told. This one is a particular favourite.