EFNW Fanfic Spotlight #11 · 1:01pm Jun 20th, 2014
Welcome once again to the EFNW Fanfic Spotlight. Everfree rapidly approaches, but we've still got a couple of issues left to keep you entertained until then. In this week's issue, three stories from three different eras: Trixie visits Ponyville once again, only to find that Twilight's grown wings and a crystal castle since they last met; Luna petitions newly-ascended Princess Twilight for help in punishing a "treasonous" author; and our favorite lavender unicorn finds a young earth filly with a talent for magic hiding in the library, and works hard to get her the recognition and schooling she deserves.
Lulamoon's Castle
by Bookish Delight
Words: 15,883 Complete: Yes
When Trixie returns to Ponyville, ready to challenge Twilight on fair and equal ground, she finds a lot has changed since she last saw her rival. Instead of a duel, what results in some very deep and heartfelt interaction between the two magic users.
I just read this story for the first time yesterday, and what I really loved here was the amazingly well done characterization. There's not much in the way of action or suspense, and the story consists mostly of Trixie and Twilight talking though things with one another. But the author pulls this off in such a great way, providing wonderful insights into the character of both mares, painting them as complex characters with their own internal worries, fears, hopes, and dreams. It is one of the better pure character studies I've seen in pony fiction, and while the author's headcanon diverges from mine in a couple of places, the majority felt completely plausible even as show-canon, despite the enhanced depth and background shown for the characters. All in all, a great, short look into these two characters.
The Princess of Books
by anowack
Words: 17,954 Complete: Yes
When Luna wants an author executed for treason, Celestia pawns the problem off to the newly ascended "Princess of Books." Twilight takes the opportunity to try to educate Luna on some of the many changes in how information flows since she was banished. Of course, nothing goes quite according to plan.
This story runs a little long for its premise, but is a very fun read along the way. There's a decent amount of comedy involved, but it's all quite plausible and fits with the story. What led me to choose this story though, was the lesson involved: that you can't suppress information, even when it's insulting to royalty, without dire consequences. The way in which Twilight deals with this, and the situations that result as she plans her explanations for Luna really make for an enjoyable tale, and one that dances effortlessly between mustache jokes and serious thoughts about the inalienable right to freedom of speech.
Never Judge A Book By Its Cover
by LightStriker
Words: 10,642 Complete: Yes
It's something I'm sure we've all thought about at some point: the inequality of the three tribes. No one really believes earth ponies are just as interesting or powerful as pegasi or unicorns even if they're "strong" or "good at growing things." This story tackles that issue head on, with a young earth pony talented at magic.
Now, fair warning, the grammar and spelling in this one is definitely rough, and some of the pacing is a bit off as well. It likewise gets a bit heavy handed in some places. If you can look past these technical and minor shortcomings though, I think you'll find a very great story waiting underneath. The basic premise is, of course, meant to be controversial. That prejudice exists in beloved Equestria, even without those involved perhaps even being aware of it, is bound to raise a few hackles I'm sure. That said, I think the author does a great job of handling it in a balanced way, showing that even those making mistakes are still able to learn from them. In that sense, it is of that best caliber of pony fiction, one that reminds us of those important things we must not forget when it comes to right and wrong.
What? Not a single sad or dark story of any kind this week? I guess I must be sleeping too well these days. I'm sure I'll find something to tug at the feels by next week though. Or you can just read last week's edition, which can be found here.
Until next week, have fun!
--Xepher
I sense a theme...
2221243
Yeah! There's blue ponies in every single one of these! I smell a conspiracy.
(Thanks, Xepher.
)
2221243 2221954 I honestly didn't INTEND a theme this time, but it sure worked out that way. I didn't even notice the blue pony one until now. I did realize they were all Twilight stories though, and after I'd written up most of it, realized they're basically all three eras of Twilight... as a unicorn, as a new princess, and as The Princess of Friendship with her own castle and everything. Interesting to see how things have changed over the past few years.