Modern AU Arthur/Merlin Recs [S-Z]

[marguerite_26]

The date preceding each rec is the date the fic was added to this rec list. The date in bold denotes newly added fics. Last updated May 1, 2012. Rec lists are updated once every few months based on the journal recs found under my Merlin Recs tag

Arthur/Merlin Canon and Canon AU Recs
A-J | K-R | S-Z

Arthur/Merlin Modern and Historical AU Recs
A-J | K-R | S-Z



Modern AU Arthur/Merlin Recs [S-Z]


Jan 08, 2011- Same as It Ever Was by corilannam [NC-17] (7k)
Summary: When Merlin wakes up, he’s wrapped in Arthur’s arms. It's the single worst moment of his life.

Magical Modern AU. This is a lovely achy fic, with a really interesting characterisation of Merlin who is emotionally damaged by his father abandoning their family. It has a great theme of the risks of self-fulfilling prophecies, and the world building that is a quiet background story is nicely done.

May 1, 2012 - Same River Twice by kianspo [PG-13] (22k)
Summary: Modern royal AU. When Arthur, the Prince of Wales, was seventeen, he had made a mistake that is still haunting him. Eight years later, can he finally make it right?

This fic? HEARTS IN MY EYES the whole time. A fantastic, quick read that immediately became one of my favourite Royal AUs. A sweet, romantic, fun fic to read on a winter’s afternoon.

Nov 30, 2011 - See You Roll by leashy_bebes Arthur/Merlin [NC-17] (2k)
Summary: PWP. Arthur and Merlin and a nightclub toilet. Because why not. Drunk (and other unspecified whatever) sex, established relationship.

Hot, hot, hot club sex with fingering kink. yeah. Delish.

Nov 30, 2010 -Serendipitous by ayane_tsurugi [PG-13] (13k)
Summary: In which there is love at first sight, give or take five minutes, Leon is the world’s best PA, the Slash Dragon is really bad at business meetings, more than one Arthur wears a red scarf, and Fate is a fickle bitch who breaks everything apart, but puts it back together even better in the end. Or, a fic loosely based on the movie Serendipity.

I haven’t seen the movie Serendipity, so I cannot say how closely this fic follows the concept, but I ADORED this fic. It is a fun adventure of heartbreaking missed opportunities with fate and destiny and signs, True Love and waiting for the Right One. I read it all with hearts in my eyes and a grin on my face. Great Read!

Nov 30, 2011 - Sharing Secrets by leashy_bebes Arthur/Merlin [NC-17] (2k)
Summary: The boys are sharing a room (oh, okay, and a bed most nights) at uni. Arthur's having some much needed alone time and Merlin walks in on something he really doesn't expect to see.

Bondage! Informal and full of nerves and shame and hiding... Arthur’s secret is well played and Merlin’s inevitable reaction ... brilliant.

Feb 10, 2011- Shosholoza Meyl: A Pleasant Experience, or Arthur Gets Laid on a Train by mellacita [R] (6.5k)
Summary: Modern AU. Arthur Pendragon is on a last holiday before assuming the mantle of responsibility, and receives an unexpected roommate for a night aboard the Shosholoza Meyl train from Johannesburg to Cape Town, South Africa.

A wonderful moment of escape for Arthur who is about to start his life of obligation. The fic is 90% a train ride with Arthur and a stranger (Merlin) getting to know each other. A wonderful romantic read in a fascinating setting.

Jan 08, 2011- Showmance by cassie_black12[PG-13] (10k)
Summary: When his doctor suggested he take up a hobby to counteract his stressful lifestyle, Arthur had no idea just how big a change it would make.

A charming modern au with Arthur as an amateur actor and Merlin as an artist. Cue a cute little love story of their getting together. Lovely read.

May 17, 2011 - Sixes and Sevens by hpsauce [NC-17] (15k) Arthur/Merlin, Elena/Merlin, Gilli/Merlin, Gwaine/Merlin, Lancelot/Merlin, Leon/Merlin, Percival/Merlin, Arthur/Gwaine/Lancelot/Leon/Merlin/Percival, Gwen/Lancelot
Warnings: group-sex, bad language, violence, accidental injury.
Summary: Seven times Merlin (arguably) dated a football player…

Look at that pairing list! LOL. My first thought was: this must be crack, or maybe just a crazy PWP that took 15k to write because of so many players. But it’s not, on either count. It’s a lovely, sexy fic that tells of Merlin’s complicated journey of relationship failures throughout high school. It was oddly... realistic. sorta. People don’t just ‘land’ their true love. They have a lot of *cough* bumps along the road to love. And poor Merlin’s road isn’t straight. [see what I did there?] It was neither too angsty nor too ridiculous, but a lovely mix of funny and pathos and porn. Excellent read.

May 1, 2012 - Skin Deep by planejane [NC-17] (3k)
Summary: From a kink meme prompt: Arthur helps Merlin put lotion on his back every day because Merlin has super-dry skin.

Theauthor captured Merlin’s vulnerability so well. He is suffering from something awkward and embarrassing, and his life revolves around keeping it all under control. and keeping it secret. Only Arthur makes him forget, makes him take risks. And in the end, the fic is about Arthur’s understanding and Merlin’s willingness to let him help. Just lovely.

Aug 16, 2010 - Small Town Mechanics by fuzzytomato02 [NC-17] (17k)
Summary: And that’s how he ended up here. Emotionally and physically fatigued, and being driven down the main street of the smallest town he’d ever seen (having just gone through the town’s stoplight) with his companion prattling on about anything and everything, stopping every so often so he could yell out the window at random people.

This fic is a pure joy. I read with a smile on my face from beginning to end. SulkyRich!Arthur with a broken car and I Love Your Car and your ass is nice too!Merlin. What I loved most about this fic is the joy of small town living. The knowing everyone, and people taking care of each other and the simplicity of it all. The “Small Town” is a character in and of itself.

May 1, 2012 - Snowed in at Heathrow and Other Christmas Disasters by rotrude [NC-17] (28k)
Summary: Sometimes the weather conditions work a little like fate. And sometimes you find love in the most improbable circumstances.

Having been trapped in an airport for many hours myself... i don’t remember anything remotely interesting as this happen. But now I wish it had! It’s a fun fic with two people taking advantage of a moment outside either of their worlds and ... having scorching hot sex in the loo. And a nice little plot to wrap it all up in.

May 1, 2012 - So Are You to Me by anon @ merlin_games [R] (9k)
Summary: American high school AU, the gang take a weekend trip up to Arthur’s lake house after graduation and amidst a weekend of booze and general debauchery, Arthur is forced to confront his feelings about his best friend.

Great UST in this fic. I loved Arthur's confusion. It rang very true for a teenager being overwhelmed with the realisation that he’s feeling things he didn’t expect, that his body is reacting in ways he doesn’t understand. The author did a great job showing us just how overwhelmed he was without dragging out the denial so far that there was no going back. And I loved the setting of all the boys having a 'last weekend together' before the all head off to college. It really added to the urgency for Arthur figuring things out.

Aug 16, 2010 - Something Fragile (When You Hold Your Breath) by Ras Elased [NC-17] (8k)
Summary: "What the hell?" Arthur shouts over the noise of ABBA. He glares at the horribly gaudy clothing of the men on the stage that is somehow louder than the music and flashier than the multicolored swirling lights. "This isn't a strip club. This is a gay bar!"

Non-magic AU. Completely fun and sexy fic from an utterly ridiculous premise. featuring: lapdance of win!

May 1, 2012 - Something Yellow This Time by giselleslash [PG] (3.8k)
Summary: Merlin owns a flower shop. Arthur is a frequent customer with a tragic love life.

OMG!!! So adorable. This fic is made of puppies and rainbows. Or just yellow flowers? Very sweet, feel good fic.

May 1, 2012 - Soul Pieces by anon @ merlin_games [G] (1.6k)
Summary: As a young boy, Merlin breaks an enchanted mirror and his soul is trapped inside the pieces, which then vanish. He has regained all but one piece- I'll give you three guesses about who has it, and the first two don't count.

To borrow itzcoatl’s comment on this fic: It's like a slashy, romantic, adult Dr Seuss. ... YES! Exactly. Lots of fun and very original. And I do adore Dr. Seuss.

May 1, 2012 - Spartacus and the Open Taxi Door by fuzzytomato02 [PG-13] (9k)
Summary: Merlin works in a coffee shop, is a literature student, lives with Will, flirts with Gwaine, is friends with Gwen and has a stunningly normal life. Until Arthur walks in and changes everything.

A fun, romantic modern AU that left a huge smile on my face. This smitten Arthur is pretty adorable.

May 1, 2012 - Stage of the Ice, the Solid Ocean by m_frantic [NC-17] (9k)
Summary: When Police Sergeant Lance Dulac begins to investigate a crime in the small Welsh village of Camelot, it stirs up decades of secrets.

The author crafted an interesting setting in this one. I really liked the ‘small Welsh village’ with its cranky old men who protect their own and how everyone seems to know everyone. The Lancelot POV as an outsider really worked for me.

May 1, 2012 - Stamboul Train by anon @ merlin_games [PG] (8k)
Summary: In 1924, the Orient Express rolls across Europe. In the high places, something waits.

This was just posted a couple hours ago and NOM NOM NOM I devoured it. Clever and lovely plot, a wonderful reincarnation piece and the setting of the Orient Express was so well used. It played out as a mystery, Merlin just not quite right and you are left wondering how 'wrong' is he? Is he sick? Is he suffering PTSD from WWI? And one mystery leads to another, and you a left wondering who really knows what? Great fun. Spot on characterisations all around.

May 17, 2011 - Stay (Broken) by rufflefeather [NC-17] (10k)
Summary: Merlin is a hooker, Arthur is clueless. Unhappy times ensue.

Oof! This fic is like a punch in the gut at times. But it’s also wonderfully different. Merlin is a complete mystery and yet I really appreciate that. He is cold and harsh, at time but I’m the type of reader who accepts (appreciates?) that we are deep in Arthur’s POV and Merlin wants to come across as cold and harsh. We aren’t told why he is like that but by the end of the fic, I have plenty of theories. And I love fics that let me the reader judge for myself why characters act the way they do. This was really a fantastic read. It was challenging in moments, but (for me) not overly so. I felt Arthur’s annoyance/desperation/frustration with himself for letting himself get attached in any way to a prostitute (Merlin certainly discouraged it enough) but I love where this story went and how it ended. It felt very right and gave us characters and a dynamic that were very fresh. It made of a fascinating (and incredible hot) read.

Oct 22, 2010 - Steam by new_kate [NC-17] (40k)
Summary:It's been centuries since King Arthur united Albion and lifted the ban on magic. Ruled by Pendragon dynasty, the kingdom had prospered till a feud between the magicians and King Uther the Second drove the country to the brink of collapse. Now it's up to Prince Arthur and his Knights of the Engine to harness steam power to replace the magic Albion had lost, and it's up to Merlin to protect Arthur while he fulfills his destiny.

The premise of this fic is absolute GENIUS. It's not a Steampunk AU. It's a Merlin canon future!fic, and a tale of history repeating itself. Merlin and Arthur lived their lives and created their united Albion and years later, generations later, Camelot is almost decimated when King Uther (the second) chases all Magicians from Camelot and bans magic. The kingdom had become so dependent on magic that they no longer knew how to till their own soil and harvest their own grain. Desperate, they turn to engineering to fulfill the tasks they once relied on magic for. Enter the dawn of steam powered machinary: where the greatest power in the land is no longer the best swordsman, but the cleverest engineer. A young prince Arthur wants nothing more than to bring property to his kingdom, as his legendary namesake did so many years before. An amazing premise and the author delivers on all counts: plot, world building and spot-on characterisation. One of the most fascinating tales I've ever read.

Nov 30, 2011 - Straws In The Wind by i_claudia [NC-17] (75k)Arthur/Merlin
Summary: Merlin meets Arthur when Arthur runs him over on the ski slopes. Everything goes downhill from there.
Beautiful Art by chosenfire28

This fic was an amazingly quick read for 75k. I rushed through it, loved the story and the characterization of both Merlin and Arthur. I loved that they were faulted, but still likeable. I still understood where each were coming from and was rooting for them both the whole way. I like that their relationship was bumpy and complicated as any relationship with two people from such different lives and expectations would naturally be. There is some Merlin/Gwaine in this fic, which I know it's a concern for some of you (myself included), but I think it was handled very well. Also, the sex in this fic was panty-melting delicious. Yum!

March 19, 2011 -Summertime, Starry Sky by anon @hs_merlin [NC-17] (9k)
Summary: During the summer before his senior year, Merlin notices that his friend Morgana's little brother Arthur isn't so little anymore.

This was the nail in the coffin of my attempt at not reading fic this week. The warnings read like my kinkwish list: rimming, tattooing, very light marking (scratching), underage, some light underage drinking The first scene had be squirming – Older!Merlin telling Morgana that her little brother was hot while Arthur splashes around in the pool. Soooo hot. shit. *fans self* And then Merlin gets a tattoo and my eyes rolled back in my head and I don’t think I breathed for the rest of the fic.

May 17, 2011 - Teenage Dream by tourdefierce [NC-17] (13k)
Summary: "Let you put your hands on me in my skin-tight jeans, be your teenage dream tonight."- Katy Perry

Teenage Dream is a perfect name for this fic, because that's exactly what it felt like. A wild ride of school and friends and alcohol and sex, sex, sex. Both Arthur and Merlin were a riot and hot as hell and the cast of friends was perfect. Though Gwaine straight? Really? Great read and hugely entertaining.

May 1, 2012 - Tell me How by fr333bird [NC-17] (8k)
Summary: Merlin and Arthur are roommates at a posh boarding school. That's all you need to know.

A hot modern AU that focuses on the boys first steps of sexual discovery together. With one ficlet focused on each ‘first time’, the tentative exploration of their sexuality hits all the right buttons for me.

Jan 08, 2011- That Night At The Club by eldee [NC-17] (13k)
Summary: They will say, long past Morgana's birthday, that it was that night at the club when things really started to happen between Arthur and Merlin. Naturally, Morgana and Gwen like to take credit, but so does Val, despite Arthur and Merlin's protests that they would've figured it out themselves. Eventually.

A fun, fun fic with match-making Morgana and Gwen who are sick of two oblivious boys being oblivious.

Oct 22, 2010 - The Apprentice’s Tale by treacle_tartlet [NC-17] (10k)
Summary: Merlin, in the wake of his breakup with Will, allows himself to be dragged off to the Midsummer Festival, an annual week-long SCA camping event run by the Barony of Camelot. Here he meets Arthur Pendragon, Prince of Albion –handsome, popular, and a complete prat. Merlin hates Arthur, Arthur hates Merlin; it is all perfectly simple, until it isn’t anymore.

This is a modern AU but it blends in the feel of canon by being set during a Festival where it’s Merlin job to act as the servant of to the prince (who turns out to be gorgeous, and a prat – but you knew that already, didn’t you?) Lots of lovely UST, with emotionally stunted Arthur and confused and oblivious Merlin.

Jul 23, 2011 - The Avalon Band by lolafeist [NC-17] (3k)
Summary: Starforce Captain Arthur Pendragon sets out on a two-man deep space mission—on a ship fueled by magic.

I love this wild AU. It’s sparse and yet the setting just ‘pops’, it’s just enough info to understand the characters and their places in the grand scheme of things and add texture to the wonderful interactions between Merlin and Arthur. A fabulous ride for just 3k, and one I won’t soon forget.

Jul 23, 2011 - The Future Soon by lady_ragnell [NC-17] (30k)
Summary: Arthur sees a vision of himself and Merlin married and happy, but they can barely stand each other. They both start doing everything they can to avoid it happening.

This is a wonderfully put-together story. Excellent mix of angst and laughs and UST and the constant feeling of not knowing where on earth it was heading and yet.. you sorta do know? idek - loved this take on fortune telling and the risks of seeing the future, loved the idea of 'choosing' a future, not being 'victim' to a destiny. I love every one of this author's work, but i gotta say, I think I liked this one the best of the lot. Excellent read.

Sept 2, 2010 -The Good Times Are Killing Me by minor_hue [NC-17] (15k)
Summary: In which the boys pretend to still be together for Christmas (and there is more than one kind of charade).

This fic has been recced everywhere it seems, but I need to rec it too because it was wonderful. Lovely, lovely achy-angst. Recently broken up Arthur and Merlin must endure a Christmas party with all their friends who think they are still together. This is a messy, ugly break-up with intense emotions and deep cuts, each of them trying to bury their hurt behind cutting remarks and truly cruel words that only someone who once loved you deeply could manage. But despair not! The pain is fuelled by passion and the emptiness they feel without each other. It is clear they wouldn’t be trying so hard to hate each other if there was nothing left. The conclusion is truly satisfying in its realistic explanation of the break-up and final resolution.

May 17, 2011 - The Hardest Way Possible by lady_ragnell [PG-13] (12.5k)
Summary: Merlin's addicted to Craigslist, Arthur's looking for love in all the wrong places, and with a little help from their friends, they manage to get it together.

A charming modern AU with a bit of fumbling, awkward beginning for Merlin and Arthur. Featuring pining!Merlin and Oblivious!Arthur and lots of just not understanding each other and a full cast of characters who see right through them. Very fun read.

Sept 2, 2010 -The Lure Would Prove Too Much by minor_hue [NC-17] (4k)
Summary: In which Arthur fucks Merlin for a hazing ritual (and then there is talk about wallpaper).

This is such a filthy fic and absolutely delicious. I think the most important thing that this fic managed is for Merlin to never look like a ‘victim of a prank.’ He is without question willing to have Arthur fuck him in front of a bunch of straight frat boys. He’s actually egging Arthur on as much as the audience. It’s also the kind of fic you want to read again immediately after finishing. JFSDJFD!!!

Nov 30, 2011 - The Magic Bean by cassie_black12 Merlin/Arthur [NC-17] (49k)
Summary: Morgana has a habit of getting Merlin into scrapes of one sort or another. But introducing him to her brother, Arthur, may have just set in motion the most eventful one yet.

This is a fun Modern AU. A nice mixture of heartache, humour, UST and friendship. Merlin here is a bit messed up from a previous relationship and has a hard time trusting; Arthur is a player who is hard to trust. Their path to understanding each other isn’t easy. A really lovely read.

Jan 08, 2011- The New Tutor by shippouzrus [NC-17] (41k)
Summary: Arthur is a single father to Mordred, who happens to be a smart-ass. When Mordred needs a new tutor, Arthur finds himself suddenly attracted to the new tutor, Merlin.

Magical Modern AU. Not a lot of really long reads coming out lately, and I really like the originality of Mordred being Arthur's son (as we see in some legends) as is the role of magic here, in this modern setting. Enjoyable read if you are looking to curl up with something over the holidays.

August 17, 2010 - The One Where Arthur Sells Tongue B/C Being Rich Is Hard Life by derryere [NC-17]

BEST KISSING EVER WRITTEN. Um, yeah. That’s about it. Long, hot, kissing with just enough backstory to making the kissing even longer and hotter. Like an instruction manual on how to write kissing as if it’s fucking.

July 23, 2011- The Pope, a Singing Nun and Arthur Walk Into a Library by giselleslash [PG-13] (4k)
Summary: Merlin is a librarian, Arthur is in search of a book. Of course this entire transaction results in true love. There might also be a professor asleep in the Ancient Egypt section.

Ridiculously hilarious and silly and wonderful. One of those huge ass smile making fics.

Nov 30, 2011 - The Prince's Speech by a8c_sock [PG] (37k)
Summary: Arthur is the Crown Prince of Camelot, he has just one problem, his speech. When his father takes ill he finds he must either find his voice or risk losing the throne. Can unconventional speech therapist Merlin Emerson help the Prince speak? And what happens when the Prince falls in love with the man who has helped him find his voice?

I loved The King's Speech and pounced on this fic when it posted. The story follows the movie very closely in the first part of the fic, but I was pleased to see that it deviated significantly midway and became its own tale by the end of it. A lovely read.

May 1, 2012 - The Reclaiming of Memory by anon @ merlin_games [PG] (2.6k)
Summary: Merlin watches Arthur remember.
<blockquote>I love the journey the author takes us through, and the idea that Merlin and Arthur repeat this journey of recovering their memories, each in different ways, time and time again. Merlin’s perspective sold me as he sat helpless each night. It is so beautiful and sad and full of hope, their lives and memories entwined together. This is how reincarnation fics are for me, bitter-sweet but always wrapped in the joy of yet another life together. </blockquote>
<b>May 1, 2012</b> - <a href=">The Room With A View by anon @ merlin_games [Team Reincarnation] [G] (2.5k)
Summary: "He's not like us, Arthur. They live on the other road, on the other side. You shouldn't mix with people like them."

Based on the summary I expected this to be a pretty ordinary Modern AU. It was not. This fic is heart wrenching and absolutely beautiful. It’s the slow, lonely journey of Arthur’s life as he grows up watching from his bedroom window as the boy next door grows up too, in a life Arthur doesn’t understand and isn't allowed to be a part of. It’s a soft and quiet fic, told like a fairytale, with a wonderful happily ever after.

May 17, 2011 - The Sex Shop Around the Corner by hermette [NC-17] (29k)
Summary: Nothing says I love you like a ball gag.

Merlin owns a sex shop!!!! Arthur has recently come out and needs 'help' figuring out how to be gay. Merlin is there for him. Funny and sexy and just a wonderful read.

May 1, 2012 - The Spirit of Christmas by tourdefierce [NC-17] (22k)
Summary: This is the story about how Arthur the Elf got his groove back.

This fic was crazy cracky fun. Completely insane and original and I had a blast reading it.

May 1, 2012 - The Spirit of Familiarity by anon @ merlin_games [Team Reincarnation] [G] (5.8k)
Summary: In each of his incarnations Merlin has magic but untamed magic requires guidance and in Merlin's case that comes in the form of a more than Familiar Spirit.

Reincarnation fics never fail to break my heart. They are full of hope, naturally because there is always a second chance, yet it’s still hard ‘living through’ the ache of lives gone by. That said, I really liked this interesting look at Merlin and Arthur finding their way to each other time and again in so many different situations, both the form that they took and they reason for their lives.

Aug 16, 2010 - The Student Prince by pandarus [NC-17] (100k)
Summary: a Merlin modern-day AU set at St Andrews University

Merlin is entering his first year of St Andrews University to study sorcery and gets 'stuck' with The Prince of Wales as his roommate. Which is a horrid twist of fate for poor crushing-on-Arthur!Merlin, but no exactly a coincidence. Morgana and Gwen are brilliant. Arthur is trying very hard to be straight, bless him. The Merlin/Arthur UST/Bromance/BFF is totally is brilliant. Excellent all around.

May 1, 2012 - The Things That Want To Let Go by giselleslash [R] (6.8k)
Summary: Arthur is expected to be a lot of things, but he gives himself one weekend to forget all those things he’s supposed to be.

This is such a wonderful, feel-good fic. The concept is simple: Arthur's in denial, living a life he hates and gives himself one weekend to 'be himself' before committing to the life his father expects and first thing he does is bump into Merlin. I love the Arthur this author gave to us, so insecure in his own sexuality, you can feel how uncomfortable he is in his own skin and it made my heart ache for him. And Merlin, well... Merlin is everything Arthur needs right now - even if it's just for a weekend.

Aug 16, 2010 - The Upper Hand by dreamdustmama [NC-17] (3k)
Summary: Arthur closes his eyes and takes several deep breathes, trying to burn the scent and feel of Merlin in that moment into his memory. The rain is still falling heavily around them, and there's mud in so many places Arthur doubts he will ever get rid of it all.

Teenage hormones on the soccer pitch. In the pouring rain. There is also angry wrestling. With mud. So. Damn. Hot.

March 19, 2011 -The whole once and future deal by cyus Merlin/Gwaine, Merlin/Arthur, mention of Arthur/Gwen, [R] (~3k)
Summary: Everything's set up, destiny is sparkling over there and Merlin's here and Arthur's there and now it's like waiting for the big bang of things shifting just right. You’d think it'd be all automatic and instant. Yeah, not so much.

I loved this quirky little fic. A very different style, with Merlin’s life told in short snippets in a mosaic of oh-so-casual sex with Gwaine and conversations with Arthur trying to convince him that this destiny this is real.

May 17, 2011 - The Wrong Avalon [Merlin x Doctor Who crossover] by leashy_bebes [PG-13] (12k) Arthur/Merlin, Amy/Rory
Summary: Arthur's been stuck in this mysterious place for what feels like years, all invisible to the strange people who surround him. He's given up on anything changing until the arrival of a madman with a blue box.
Or: All the Doctor wants is to give his friends a nice honeymoon in the galactically-renowned Hotel Avalon. Except he sort of stumbles across this medieval king who has a date with destiny and then, well, business as usual, really.
Spoilers: General spoilers for series 5 of DW.

This is an fantastic crossover. It is heavy on the DW side of this which to me makes it all the more fun because I never read Doctor Who fic and to see these characters that I love come to life and be seen through Arthur’s eyes was so brilliant. Leashy’s Eleven voice (er, The Doctor’s voice) was so spot on I could picture him in every quirky move and rambling ‘it’s like that, except it’s not’ moment. And the whole how magic doesn’t exists (which is a DW universe thing) but yet Merlin and sorcery is all explained in classic DW insanity – GOD – this was so well done. Arthur was fabulous being stuck out of time and place with three of the strangest creatures known to man (11, Amy and Rory) LOL. He took it all like a real trooper. And his love of Merlin and, Lord, Merlin’s EPIC love of Arthur was just... yeah. I think I’m gonna go read this again now. Kthxbye.

Aug 16, 2010 - There's No Makebelieving by miafic (77k) [flocked - you will need to join the comm]

I wasn't sure what to think of this fic when I read the summary. Another AU with Merlin and the gang in college, and 77k!!! Goodness, how many EPIC AU's does this fandom have, right? They can't all be great. And I'm sure they are not, but this on is. An excellent fic. With a Merlin and Arthur just like I like them, the prat and the idiot that just click and yet never stop arguing. And there is so much more going on in this fic, all the peripheral characters get there stories and they are compelling and heartbreaking and amusing. I cannot say enough about how much I loved each of them, from Morgana to Uther to Will. A fic that will live in my mind for a very long time.

Oct 22, 2010 - These Aren’t My Toys (I Just Play With Them) by misswinterhill [PG] (17k)
Summary: Toys have only a few duties in life — to love their child, to look after each other, and to play along, no matter what happens. Merlin is the newest Camelot Collectable in Johnny’s collection, and in between navigating the hoover, an invading army and the Thing under the bed, he falls in love with the other half of his limited edition run.

Not sure if this goes under canon or modern AU? I might put it under both because I love it so much. This is a brilliant fic based on the Merlin figurines being in a Toy Story like world in which they are played with by a young boy with a wonderful imagination. You don't need to be a fan of the movies to enjoy this fic, but if you are? You will be floored by it. The author captures the feel of Toy Story PERFECTLY, the 'duty' of a toy to be there for their child, the secret world that exists when the child leaves the room. Add to all that the fantastic in character toy!Arthur and toy!Merlin who are a set! They are only complete when together! because they are a set! something like destiny. *happy sigh*

May 17, 2011 - Things Fall Apart by frantic_allonsy [NC-17] (5k)
Summary: Merlin Emrys, a graduate student in the creative writing programme at Camelot University, really, completely, seriously hates his poetry professor and does not love him even slightly.

This is a uni AU with Arthur as a profession in poetry studies and Merlin a grad student. I enjoyed the ‘mystery’ of Arthur here. He was an interesting mix of awkward and smug. And Merlin’s immediate dislike of him (despite his hotness) is something I always like in fics.

May 17, 2011 - This Fast, Unreasonable Spring by hermette and i_claudia Merlin/Arthur, Arthur/OCs, past Merlin/OC [NC-17] (26k)
Summary: Merlin was looking for something uncomplicated. Arthur was just looking to get paid. Neither of them expected to find the other.

Arthur is a high-paid escort who Merlin can afford once, just to nurse his broken heart. But once is no where near enough for Arthur. I adore rentboy fics, especially ones like this - that deal with trust issues and self-respect and 'where do we go from here' realistically. (or as realistically as a rentboy will ever get and still give you a happy ending).

Feb 10, 2011- This Time, Baby by agenttrojie [NC-17] (4.5k)
Summary: Arthur and Merlin break up, and Merlin's life kind of skids to a halt.

This isn’t a happy fic. It’s raw and hurting and left me aching at its realism. Beautifully written, but you might want a fluffy chaser if you’re a wimp like me.

Sept 2, 2010 -- Timshel by ems [R] (35k)
Summary: Merlin is definitely supposed to work for Arthur, but spends most of his time mocking Arthur's dress sense, berating him via IM with Morgana, sending Gwen capslock-filled emails about him and, most of all, trying not to fall in love with the shiny-shoed ponce. Arthur, meanwhile, is definitely supposed to be taking over his father's company some day, but instead spends most of his time scowling at Merlin, making lists about him, trying to find excuses to fire him and, most of all, trying to pretend he is totally not head-over-heels for the jumped up little upstart. Someone's got to make some difficult choices eventually, and this can only lead to one thing: angst. Or hilarity. Or, embarrassingly enough, self-discovery.

There are so many absolutely hilarious moments in this fic that I read through the summary and just laugh to myself remembering them. But it’s far more than just giggles. It an achingly romantic tale of friendship and love and people that are truly good for each other. Arthur and Merlin’s relationship is slow and realistic and painful at times. An excellent read.

Jan 08, 2011- To Be Worthy of Merlin's Books and Bed by bananahater336 [R] (4k)
Summary: It all started with a drunken game of Twister. It could only go up from there.

Modern AU. I really liked the premise of the fic, we begin with Will getting Merlin drunk and the gang around him slowing working through a night of partying with a suspiciously absent Arthur, while going through memories of other parties telling the backstory. Very sweet fic.

May 1, 2012 - To The Lonely Sea And The Sky by im_not_a_lizard [NC-17]
Summary: : Merlin lives in St Ishmael's and has secret magic. Arthur lives in the sea and has not-so-secret tentacles.

Tentacles!!! And not just tentacles, but mythical creature!Arthur and modern day sceptic!Merlin. And yummy UST and a first time that was possibly one of the hottest tentacle scenes ever and passionate, pining!Arthur and confused, not sure what he wants!Merlin. It’s quite beautiful and plotty and romantic. Also did I mention tentacles, with not a smidgen on crack. Loved it.

Nov 30, 2010 -To the Syntax of Things by suntipped [NC-17] (20k)
Summary: AU. For the KKM prompt: Arthur/Merlin, first kiss in the toilet of the school. Denial as usual.

High-school AU. I really enjoyed how faulted, how young these characters are. They are not canon Merlin, Arthur in their twenties and with the weight of a kingdom on their shoulders. These are two teenagers, who make mistakes and say stupid things and yeah... aren’t the models of great judgment. I love silly high school boys being naughty and emo and they had just enough 'meant to be!Merlin/Arthur' for me to find this just brilliant.

Nov 30, 2010 - trrrnch (smile, smile, smile) by joan_waterhouse [PG-13] (2k)
Summary: And then was now and now was then, and all the ages were but one, and the pain that tore his heart to pieces ripped from his soul Magic.

Reincarnation fic, Read the warnings on the post if you need to. This little 2k fic tugged at my heartstrings from the first sentence to the last. A wonderful collection of moments in Arthur and Merlin’s lives, full of hope, sorrow, romance and destiny. *blinks back tears*

May 1, 2012 - Turning Page by mightypretty [NC-17] (25k)
Summary: When Merlin, best loved singer/songwriter in the UK, tragically loses his parents in a car accident his life is turned upside down. Depressed and alone he's ready to give up and leave it all behind, but then he hears a voice.

This fic has warnings for: Mentions of depression, self-harm and suicide. The fic begins with Merlin already deep in depression over the death of his parents. I find grief hard to read, and this was no exception. There was no quick fix for Merlin’s issues, but healing does come with the help of Arthur – who has his own painful past to deal with. It was a beautiful story, heartbreaking but a good journey through it all and it left me happy and not wrung out. This fic was inspired by the beautiful graphic by sallyna_smile

Aug 16, 2010 - Two Weeks Notice by ras_fic [NC-17] (38k)
Summary: Arthur is a prattish Executive VP of the Pendragon Corporation with a disturbingly non-ironic love of Demotivational posters. Merlin is a tree-hugging barista with a "magic" tongue. Morgana's a peeping Tom and her breasts have superpowers. Gwen and Lancelot get married. Owain is the company bicycle. Arthur attempts to steal Merlin's affections from Will through epic DDR combat. Merlin gets drunk a lot. There is a pillow fight, and a helicopter ride, and rooftop confessions, and Arthur decides Merlin really is his destiny, whether he likes it or not.

Otherwise known as Merlin is totally Sandra Bullock. I've never seen the movie, but Arthur as a snotty, arrogant executive means that Arthur is still Arthur and I quite love Merlin as an environmental activist. He never loses himself to the temptation of Arthur's easy, rich life and stands his ground even when he has nothing to stand-on. Characterisation is what makes an AU work and this one certainly does for me.

August 17, 2010 - Under the Tuscan Sun by lisztful [NC-17] (18k)
Summary: When Arthur loses his home to his cheating husband, the last place he expects to find another is on a lesbian tour of Tuscany. That's not all he finds, either. Complete with lessons learned the hard way, well-adusted friends, gelato, true love, and maybe just a little bit of destiny.

Absolutely delightful fic. A charming setting (I do love Tuscany) and a very sweet Arthur. Another Lance as a fanon!Blaise Zabini but he serves the story well as a minor character. Merlin is love in this. ♥

Nov 30, 2011 - unraveled by glimmergirl Arthur/Merlin [PG-13] (4k)
student/teacher, pre-modern fantasy/magic au; illness h/c.

Short and lovely glimpse at an type of AU that I don't think I've ever seen/ Lots of story packed into these 4k while still be a quiet 'moment in time' fic.

August 17, 2010 - Users are Losers by derryere
Summary: written for KMM prompt: AU future!fic - Merlin's a whiz-kid chemistry student at uni who mixes/grows/magics drugs to pay the bills. Arthur's a new client who's hesitant about the product, so Merlin agrees to sample with him. Massive bonus points for touchy-feely hallucinating!Arthur and composed!Merlin.

sexy, sexy, sexy. Blissed out Arthur is just... yeah. Merlin didn’t stand a chance.

May 1, 2012 - Wait by eldee [NC-17] (10k)
Warnings/Contents: established bedroom D/s relationship (dom Arthur, sub Merlin), bondage and sex toys but no painplay.
Summary: It’s been a couple of weeks since Merlin and Arthur have had the chance to get together for a night of play.

This was so much of everything I love about D/s play. Dom!Arthur with his quiet authority, and sub!Merlin with his struggles to give over control warring with his desire to please... yeah. This was delicious. They are established, but still new enough to each other and their roles that it’s practiced but still fresh, Merlin knows what’s expected but it’s still an effort to comply at times. I loved the choices the author made in both the play and the characterisation. Hit all my buttons just right.

May 1, 2012 - Warlock by scatterglory [NC-17] (2.6k)
Warnings: Bondage/restraints (consensual), D/s (consensual)
Summary: After a humiliating day at work, Merlin knows just how to unwind.

This is a a hot D/s fic written for Kinkspiration’s Roleplay theme. It has Merlin by day a lackey for a demanding boss (Arthur) and by night, a well known, well respected Dom in a BDSM club. Merlin has an unexpectedly good night when said boss ends up in the club and give Arthur everything he's asking for. I’m not above begging for more of this verse. This was delicious, but I would really love to see more.

Aug 16, 2010 - We’re A Storm In SomebodyElse’s Teacup by paperclipbitch [R] (86k)
Summary: In which Morgana knows something Arthur doesn’t; or thinks she does, anyway.

Total Epic adventure in the grandest sense. It's a modern AU but steeped in Magic and has a real 'Camelot' feel to it, if that makes any sense to you. Merlin is a paper-pusher, Arthur is a corporate exec, but the story takes place outside of the office. It is driven by Merlin and Morgana's friendship and how together they bring all the cast of characters that we know and love together for love and magic and drama and destiny. Lovely fic.

May 17, 2011 - We’re Lost, It’s Cold, and There Are Dragons Out There by misswinterhill [PG-13] (27k)
Summary: Modern AU with magic. Arthur is relatively sure that Bear Gryllis has never had to deal with anything like the world’s most aggravating baby dragon when he was out surviving in the wilderness. Merlin thinks that Arthur has taken the whole “magic reveal” thing pretty damn well, which might have something to do with Merlin saving Arthur’s life just now when the helicopter crashed. The dragon thinks they’re both idiots.

This fic is a wild adventure. Very rich plot and a great OC (in the form of a little dragon). It’s a modern magical AU in this complex world where people use magic instead of electricity and Arthur and Merlin work for Uther (whose company encourages non-magical power). After a helicopter crash, Arthur and Merlin discover the dramatic lengths that Uther is willing to go to provide cheap/clean power to the world and reduce the dependence on those with magic.

Aug 16, 2010 - What Child Is This by lamardeuse [NC-17] (30,000 words)
Summary: Modern AU. Based (very loosely) on the 1939 movie – Bachelor Mother - with David Niven and Ginger Rogers. A child is left in Arthur's father's department store and found by Merlin.

A sweet, sweet fic. Merlin and Arthur's journey to being annoyed by each other, to needing each other to friends and more is classic (canon) fanon and very well done. The baby and their slow journey about learning about parenting is very well done, without being overwhelmingly 'cutesy'.

Nov 30, 2011 - What You Mean to Me (Right Now) by wanderhomeagain Arthur/Merlin [NC-17, warnings] (37k)
Summary: When Arthur Pendragon lost his leg his leg below the knee after an auto accident three years ago, he shut everyone out. Now with the help of his sister, some meddling kids friends, and a bastard of an ex-boyfriend who has the temerity to get off with someone else, Arthur begins to learn that he can let himself enjoy life in the company of others, especially the new pharmacist Gwen sent him to see.

This was a delightful h/c. I enjoyed the exploration of Arthur’s struggles, his self-image issues caused by his amputation. I think the author treated the matter with respect, and paired it well with Merlin who is sensitive and caring, but also not without his own scars. Very good read.

May 1, 2012 - When Morning Comes by starlingthefool [R] (9k)
Summary: If life were fair, anyone who managed to survive the apocalypse would be given a fuzzy blanket, some tea, and a nice bed to hide under and weep. Life is not fair, obviously, and there's no actual end to the end of the world. Instead, there's grief and pain and mud and death, there are minor miracles, and there's the love that gets you out of bed in the morning, despite everything. Life goes on.

This was written for the Happy Ending Fest, and yet I had to be told 5 times that I need to read it because I was afraid of the angst. And yup, I basically cried the whole way through it. /wuss. But DAMN, it was really well done. and YES Happy Ending (as required). Definitely a great read for when you are in the mood for a clever apocalyptic/alien invasion/dystopian plot that is full of heartache and sprinkled liberally with romance, hope and laughter.

Jan 08, 2011- When the music changes, so does the dance by giselleslash [NC-17] (8k)
Summary: The boys are in high school and the winter dance is coming up. Arthur thinks he should school Merlin in the fine art of the waltz and Merlin just wants to make it through it all without succumbing to teenage angst, after school detention and Christmas dinner at the Pendragons.

A fun modern AU. A cute easy read that had me smiling the whole time.

Jan 08, 2011- Where I End and You Begin (The Sky is Falling In) by suntipped [NC-17] (25k)
Summary: In which Merlin is Arthur's best friend's younger brother.

This fic has age disparity so I was all over it. *g* Arthur is uni age and Merlin is 16 (and Lancelot’s little brother). It’s a great angsty tale of emotionally stunted Arthur whose been seriously messed up by his absentee father. He’s incredibly lonely and insecure, despite all his bravado. The triangle of the Arthur and Lancelot friendship (and the importance of that friendship to Arthur) and the Arthur and Merlin (lust/love/need) is really well played. A lovely achey sort of fic with some damn hot moments.

Nov 30, 2011 - Wicked Game by winterstorrm Arthur/Merlin, Merlin/Gwaine, Arthur/Others, Merlin/Others [NC-17] (42k)
Summary: Arthur's the King of Camelot…nightclub. He can pick and choose who he wants, and he does – often – no promises and absolutely no repeats. The night he chooses Merlin might just be his undoing.
With lovely art by savagesnakes

This isn't a fic for everyone. Lots of promiscuity, casual sex and infidelity. Also plenty of heart-wrenching moments with one partner wanting monogamy and the other wanting an open relationship. It’s a really achy, sexy, filthy, deliciously angsty fic. I don’t always like these; in some fics, Arthur can be too cold for me to understand and I end up hating the character and just wishing Merlin with someone else. But this author 'sold' me on this Arthur with all his really fucked up views of relationships and love and sex. While I wanted Merlin to be happy, I also wanted Arthur to be happy too and I actually believed that they could manage that together (when they actually got themselves sorted). And that's what made all the heartache worth it.

May 17, 2011 - World Enough and Time by neathsunnyskies Formerly: The Assassin AU on KMM [NC-17] (19k)
Summary: Arthur had had it all figured out. And then Merlin shot him in Beijing.

This is going to be rambling... Last year, I tried to write an international!spy type of fic in HP fandom. It didn’t turn out quite like I wanted but this fic? This is the fic I wanted my fic to smell like. *seethes in jealousy* I love the way the reader is drenched in each location. Not OTT details that scream ‘I researched!!!’ but just peppered with sentences the make you feel, smell, taste the exoticness of the city until you are pulled along to the next. Also (surprisingly) I love the Merlin and Arthur we are given here. While they are not exactly ‘in character’ – as Merlin and Arthur will always be at the end of the day be honourable and it would be impossible for them to be assassins (imo) – they are complex and three dimensional and likable. They made me feel for them and want to understand them. They are also hot like burning together. The whole James Bond feel of ‘I could fuck you, or shoot you – I haven’t decided yet. Possibly both.’ just hits all my buttons. And the ending – yeah – HEARTS IN MY EYES so damn perfect. I don’t think a lesser author could have pulled this off. Amazing bit of writing. *seethes with more jealousy*

Nov 30, 2011 - Worth Fighting For by dreamdustmama Arthur/Merlin [NC-17, warnings] (47k)
Summary: In a world where magic is on the brink of being banned and sorcerers are looked upon as second-class citizens, Merlin Emrys does whatever is necessary to protect his loved ones and help those who are like him. Arthur Pendragon, despite his father's open hatred of magic, has never had a reason to care one way or the other – until he discovers that his sister Morgana has powers, and is working underground to rescue those being targeted by the government. Merlin fights with words while Arthur is forced to face the truth about what is really happening to those who use magic, and despite an earlier encounter, it isn't until a chance meeting between them one night that their worlds truly collide.

First: This is a prequel to Echoes of Yesterday. It is not at all necessary to have read that first; this fic very much stands on its own. I loved Echoes and recced it enthusiastically back in day. This fic does stand nicely on its own, but having read Echoes, there are plenty of things that made my heart jump in that ‘oh! That’s where that comes from’ moments which felt like icing on the cake. For those who have not read Echoes – this is a compelling Magical!Modern AU, with magic currently legal, but the people who practice it are oppressed. The depth of the world building, the complexity of the cast of characters, the execution of a clever plot is some of the best I’ve read in this fandom. One of my favourite things about Echoes is BAMF!Arthur with a kickass gun. It’s an image I always have in my mind as I think back on the fic and I love how this sequel takes us through the journey of how pampered, rich, non-political Arthur becomes the man I fell in love with in Echoes. This is a brilliant prequel. Now I’m off to re-read Echoes.

Arthur/Merlin Canon and Canon AU Recs
A-J | K-R | S-Z

Arthur/Merlin Modern and Historical AU Recs
A-J | K-R | S-Z

Comments

[tama_abi]

Thank you for your hard work !

And beware ! Sparring and Submission isn't a ModernAU fic !

[marguerite-26.livejournal.com]

lol... those sneaky buggers! I swear the crawl over to the wrong list when I'm not looking.

<3

[noah-bee.livejournal.com]

Your rec lists are amazing and have saved me many a time from extreme work boredom. I havent done a great deal of actual work in the last week or so but it's been totally worth it. Can't wait to find some more lovely gems! Thanks for your hard work!!

[marguerite-26.livejournal.com]

No one should ever have to suffer from extreme work boredom! :)
I'm glad to point you to some distractions. I friended you back, make yourself at home here, though feel free to just lurk if that's your thing. Cheers.

[noah-bee.livejournal.com]

I am quite the lurker lol but I'm sure you'll here from me every now and again :3

[bethac.livejournal.com]

Thank you so much for this list! I've been glued to it all weekend, finding tons of stories I have never seen. Thank you again, I would have missed many amazing stories without your hard work putting this together.

[marguerite-26.livejournal.com]

Glad you've found stuff that you like! :)

Missing great fics is a tragedy!

Mislabeled

[beneviolent.livejournal.com]

Just wanted to drop a line saying that Summertime, Starry Sky (which I haven't read) is mislabeled as being PG-13 when it's NC-17 (though anyone reading the summary and possessing even half a brain could figure that out heh).

Re: Mislabeled

[marguerite-26.livejournal.com]

oops! Thanks for the quick heads up. totally not PG-13. LOL.

[scarletscarlet.livejournal.com]

Hey, this one: Aug 16, 2010 - There's No Makebelieving by miafic (77k) [flocked - you will need to join the comm]

I don't suppose you know if it's anywhere else, do you? According to the comm info all the fic has been removed and the comm is closed to new members :(. 77k Merlin fic! *wah*.

[marguerite-26.livejournal.com]

Sorry. hun. She took down all her fics. I don't know anywhere where to get them any longer. :/

I'll remove that from my list. It's such a tease to be there. :(

[scarletscarlet.livejournal.com]

It's so sad when that happens :(. Every now and then I go to my bookmarks etc to look for an old story I liked, and at least half the time it's missing.

[gryffierawr.livejournal.com]

I found a link where you can download it. When all else fails Google prevails! lol
http://www.mediafire.com/?hew693su4b5st16

[scarletscarlet.livejournal.com]

Thank you so much! That's brilliant and much appreciated :).

[lops06.livejournal.com]

Hi!...
just wanted to say that I love your rec list...I think I've read almost everything on the list...
Have you read Shelter? It's a really beautiful Modern AU story, one of my favourites...I thought to rec it to you, if you haven't read it yet, since you rec great stories to us :))

link: http://this-is-kelly.livejournal.com/348482.html

[marguerite-26.livejournal.com]

cool! Thanks. I always appreciate recs. :)

[gryffierawr.livejournal.com]

I seriously love you<3, I've read most of the recs but it's so good to find a fic I enjoyed and read it again, my bookmarks are a mess and I never find anything. Thanks for making this post, you are awesome!!

[themostepotente.livejournal.com]

This is an awesome list, bb.

[kitty_fic]

I just have to say that I love your recc lists so much! <3

[dianaprallon.livejournal.com]

OMFG THERE'S NO MAKING BELIVE WAS DELETED AND MY HEART IS BROKEN, I WANTED TO READ IT SO BAD AND

*cries*

[dragonknuckles.livejournal.com]

I love the modern AUs a ridiculous amount, so thankyouthankyouthankyou for this lovely list :D

[nbyevu.livejournal.com]

I just want you to know that I use these lists religiously to read a great fic when I'm bored or down. So thank you!!

[marguerite-26.livejournal.com]

<3 thank you!