Salmon

While I'm rarely a fan of "Let's break up a canon couple", in this instance it's written extremely well.  Partly because it's one of those "years later" that I'm so fond of.  Instead of trying to show the break up - which rarely comes across realistically and well for canon couples in fics - the author simply sets the fic as happening years after the break up has occured.  It explores how life has gone on, and the possiblity that Shuichi and Yuki's relationship may have aided Yuki at the detriment of Shuichi's own growth.  While not my headcanon, it's very well done in this fic.

Though it doesn't really match my head canon, the twisted web of relationships as the author sets them up is written in a way that's both totally believable, and utterly painful. This story manages to be totally sexy, and devastatingly emotional - especially during the climax.

This fic encapsulates everything I love about Spain/Romano.  Spain's determination, and open affection, and how he understands Romano in a way nobody else does (Except maybe Veneziano).  Romano's grumpy, but not without reason (I would probably be pissed, too, if someone showed up drunk to sing under my window in the middle of the night, no matter if I had unresolved feelings for them or not.), and not really in denial about how he feels - just not willing to shout it from the rooftops (Or under a balcony) the way Spain is.   Plus, it has drunken BTT.  How can you go wrong?

Aside from Sakon/Mitsunari being one of my favorite couples of all time, this fic is simply very well written.  There's a slow build up to their relationship, and their first time together is wonderfully sensual. While I'm not a fan of Kanetsugu/Mitsunari (even one-sided though it is in this case), I find it believable as the author lays it out. The story does remain sadly unfinished.

A very sweet story, and one that shows Anzu's dedication to her friends in a good light.  (Something so rarely found in Yugi-oh fiction, which is baffling since the power of the bonds of friendship are pretty much a cornerstone of, oh, the whole freaking series.)  The combination of a Seto/Jou fic, combined with a positive take on Anzu is something I rarely can resist in a fic.  While this one is quite short, and generally a simple WAFF piece, I find it very heart-warming, and it makes me smile every time I read it.

Well, I am a sucker for the "Years Later" plotline.  But, truly, this fic is a cut above the rest.  It's simply beautifully written, and keeps you hanging on chapter after chapter.  Also, I think the author took a very serious and well thought out look at why both Kaiba and Jounouchi act the way they do, and what both would need to move on with their lives.