Finally Back (Plus some story recommendations)

So I've been a little busy lately, but I'm finally back into the swing of things!

Aside from getting a pretty good clip going on A Scratch on Shining Armor, I've also been reading quite a lot of stories lately. So I thought I'd share some thoughts on some of the stories that have had me in their clutches in the past week.

Three Gems and a Scooter

I'm a sucker for stories with a good heart, there I said it. Give me a sad situation and a character who really wants to make it better and I'm sold. The author really does capture both Rarity and Scootaloo really well, and especially does a great job with Scootaloo's apprehension and lack of trust.

Do you love yourself some Scootalove? Do you like Rarity? Do you like feelgood stories with a lot of heart? Then I think you need to read this one.

The Irony and The Advent of Applejack

So I'm not usually big into the whole 'One of the Mane Six is actually a Changeling!' stories. Usually they go into some very odd and over-the-top territory that just can't hold my attention. These two stories are quite the exception.

The Irony of Applejack caught my attention due to its faithful depiction of Rainbow and Applejack. Seriously, I swear this story is one of the best character studies I've ever read about those two. The other reason it kept my attention is because it plays it's cards so close to it's chest. Every single answer you get brings up only more questions. Every time you think you have something figured out, it pulls the wool over your eyes and challenges you to keep up. What is the villain really planning? Who is Applejack's mother and what was she doing here? Honestly, it's been one of the most engrossing stories I've ever read on this site besides maybe Background Pony.

The Advent of Applejack is a lot like it's predecessor, but it doubles down on it's mysteries. Now it's not complete, but I feel it is drawing to a close and I think I can assume we know the answers to a lot of the mysteries presented at this point. It constantly misdirects you with obvious, rather than obfuscated, motives of characters. It gives you all of the answers and allows the characters' own thoughts to pull you down the rabbit hole rather than letting you put the pieces together yourself. I can't wait to see how this one will end, but I already know it's going to be good.

Those are the main stories that have been occupying my time. If you want to see what stories I hold in high regard, check out this list!