#braveten meta

[actualyuuri-daily]

analysis (part one): if i’m never your hero chapter one

the Great Braveten has posted another fic so as the leading Braveten/Actualyuuri/Maddie Katsuki fanblog it is naturally my duty to get into the nitty gritty of their latest literature

buckle up folks

ok so right off the bat we see the tags,

“blind character”??? heck me up! 

“vigilante au that nobody asked for” um, excuse me, but when it comes to the Great Braveten fics there is nothing to ask. we will simply just accept it, and let it drown us, take over our lives, take our souls,, 

“in which yuuri leads a double life and victor falls in love with him in both” oh my god here we go again the trademarked Miscommunication Issues that rears its head in every single one of maddie’s fics yep yep i can feel it coming already

and now, the summary: 

their lives revolve around each other 

[starts sweating already] o god here we go 

[immediately opens daredevil wiki because i haven’t watched it whoops] 

see i only know the MCU so this is going to be a team effort, okay guys? when you see an allusion to a DC/superhero show that i don’t catch you need to make it known, alright y’all??

alright now that that’s clear let’s take a look at two details: (1) title of the fic and (2) title of the chapter

if i’m never your hero i can never let you down

we are already seeing some katsuki yuuri low self-esteem vibes here y’all. this is so yuuri. this is so yuuri we’re not even gonna question why i’ve already assumed this is yuuri speaking. we were all thinking this 

‘for what i’m about to do’ is not, in fact, a line off of ‘explode’ nor is it a daredevil episode title. so what does this mean??? let’s break it down:

[blank] for what i’m about to do. 

possible fill-ins: ‘i apologize’ for what i’m about to do? ‘prepare yourself’ for what i’m about to do?? a precursory glance at the chapter tells us this is victor’s pov, so is this chapter title victor speaking??? 

(wow we haven’t even delved into the chapter yet. i just --)

so let’s actually dig into the chapter shall we??? we’ll return to this chapter title situation in a jiffy 

EXT. ROOFTOP IN NEW YORK CITY — NIGHT

already we are seeing a slight divergence from braveten’s writing style what with how she is setting up the scene much like one would in a comic book. the superhero vibes are settling in already. and we’re in new york city, no less -- y’all seen that post about how new york city is always the first city to fall whenever there’s an apocalypse in movies?? so we already know it’s about to go down. new york city; the perfect backdrop for a vigilante. 

also, also. on the topic of the apocalypse. let’s go back to that patrick stump song and ohohoho. what do we have here? the opening lines are: 

HMMM... REAL INTERESTING YES YES... REAL INTERESTING... 

another thing of note: the sirens. sirens are incredibly important to Young Victor.

He hears sirens, sometimes, and starts writing about those. What could be happening across town, if somebody’s hurt, if a life is being saved. He wonders if his father is there, since Yakov had just gotten a job as the chief of police. Whenever he hears those sirens, he’ll grip his favorite book just a little bit tighter. (from scene 1) 

Victor stands and dusts off his knees, but then hears a siren go off. It’s nearby. He steps closer to the edge of the roof, and hears Yakov call his name again, with concern thick in his tone, this time. Victor squints to get a better look and can only see ambulances gathering a few blocks away. (from scene 1)

Yakov assumes that Victor is the same unruly teenager who had wanted to look out over rooftops and daydream about sirens with a child’s naivety. (from scene 2) 

sirens also appear in stump song right after the line from which the title of the fic is taken

REAL INTERESTING... things the sirens could mean: danger, crime, someone in need, someone being rescued... in any case we’re filing away this info for later

INT. HISTORY MAKER TRIBUNE BUILDING — DAY

victor is a journalist! a Very Serious one!! he chases around stories with seemingly no regard for his safety!!!!! ahhhh 

(But the fact of the matter is, as everyone knows, that the intimate details and photos he’d gotten have lead to the exact type of article needed to revamp the newspaper’s business. One dangerous expedition at a time, Victor is saving not only his own job, but dozens of jobs.)

ohohoho and now we have a lil snippet of a subplot: perhaps in the future victor will need to make a decision between unmasking a certain vigilante and saving the paper??? 

Just because Yakov is the chief of police doesn’t grant Victor immunity from bullets, blades, and crime—he knows that.

and here we have our first allusion to a superhero show other than daredevil!!!! like barry allen in the flash, victor’s adopted father is the chief of police. 

(unlike barry allen, victor is not in love with his adopted sibling) 

[Celestino] understands that what Victor is doing isn’t storytelling—it’s an unconventional method of catharsis.

another noteworthy piece of victor’s character 

what could his work -- his desire to take note of everything, his keen attention to detail -- be emotionally relieving him of? 

end of part one. to be continued.

[nyerus]

Nyerus’ Victuuri Fic Rec List

These are in no particular order, really, just a list of my fave Victuuri fics—some of which I think a little less well known (but idk). I’ve been sitting on this for SO LONG that some of the “lesser known” ones are huge now hahaha! I’ll probably make a page for this or something later.

I pulled the “genres” mostly from the tags, but basically winged it based on what felt right. Most fics rated as “Explicit” in this list have smut in them so keep that in mind, but I’ve made special annotations as need be. I’ve also mentioned if there are any significant side pairings.

I’ve added mini-reviews (kinda) as well, which are just my personal thoughts on a fic without getting too spoilery, but you can feel free to skip them.

Current count:

Canon:7

AU: 21

(Quite long, so under a cut).

Canonverse

1.) Heartbreaker by drowsycyborg (Status: Complete – 3.1k words) – Teen

Genres: Pre-series, Outsider PoV, Detroit Days, Humor

Katsuki Yuuri is five foot eight, shy, and one of the most gorgeous and heartbreaking humans ever seen in Detroit.

In which Yuuri is Too Beautiful and Good and no one around him knows how to be chill about it. And thus, he unwittingly breaks a lot of hearts in Detroit. Set pre-series, it’s hilarious to see people lament over the sweet, lovely Katsuki Yuuri (long before we see poor Victor fall victim in-canon). Possibly part of a future series?

2.) katsuki_fc wrote by tetsurashian (Status: Complete – 12.7k words) – Gen

Genres:  Social Media, Outsider PoV

Just because Yuuri isn’t big on social media, doesn’t mean his fans aren’t.(aka a social media fic)

Basically the series seen through a social media lens. In other words, the social media reactions one would expect to see in-canon if we got a glimpse of it! It feels very realistic and even incorporates actual fandom discourse (e.g. early fan theories and shipping). A huge round of applause for the author for getting AO3’s formatting to still somehow feel like LJ threads, Tumblr posts, and so on! I’ve read this like a dozen times already and always laugh when I do because it feels sooooo meta.

3.) Distance by surverycorpsjean (Status: Complete – 5.1k words) – Explicit

Genres: Post-series, Domestic, Fluff, Smut

They just can’t stand to be apart.

Victor and Yuuri never outgrow their honeymoon phase and it’s amazing and perfect. Adorable domestic fluff with some great smut (kitchen sex!) in the middle. (It’s set post-canon.) Without a doubt I can say: A+++

4.) The Fundamentals of Caring by braveten (Status: Complete – 20.8k words ) – Explicit

Genres: Hurt/Comfort, Fluff

“Let me guess, you’re going to go take care of Yuuri while he sleeps? Just in case he sneezes or something?” Yurio rolls his eyes, folding his arms across his chest. “Viktor, you’re whipped.”

Viktor rubs the back of his neck as he leans against the wall. “What does that mean?”

“It means that if Yuuri asked you to do a little dance for him in nothing but a coconut bra and a hula skirt, you’d do it.”

Viktor pauses, confused. “And that’s a bad thing?”

Yuuri gets sick while in Russia (not post-series) and Victor tries to take care of him while simultaneously trying to be Chill about it—but a deliriously affectionate Yuuri makes that very difficult. Yurio is eventually recruited to help and he makes Victor’s job harder and easier at the same time, somehow. Very cute!

5.) Lace and Satin by whatsup_buttercup (Status: Complete – 6.2k words) – Explicit

Genres: Established Relationship, Post-series, Lingerie, Light BDSM

“I won gold.” Viktor says, smile in his voice. “Whatever does that mean, Yuuri?”

Yuuri looks down. “Are you sure you don’t want something better?”

“There’s nothing better.” Viktor insists. “Nothing.”

Hoooooo boy! This fic hits basically EVERY single one of my kink so well and honestly I’m grateful it exists. Criminally underrated because it’s so well written and even the dirty talk is A+. It’s technically part of a series but can also work as a standalone (but do yourself a favor and read the other fic in this series too!!!).

6.) Need by sub_textual (Status: Complete – 8.2k) – Explicit

Genres: Post-series, Smut, Semi-public sex

What stands before Viktor now isn’t at all the Yuuri that had stripped off his clothes in front of a hundred people. This is Yuuri, beautiful and blushing, shy in all the ways Viktor knows he isn’t, too embarrassed to express what he really wants. This is Yuuri, abandoning the clasp of Viktor’s pants, to slowly undo Viktor’s tie. This is Yuuri, desperate and needy, ripe and ready for the taking, and he’s all Viktor’s.

Takes place directly after the series, during the banquet. Victor and Yuuri sneak off to the bathroom and get frisky. This fic is hot, ok. There’s a slight dab of exhibitionism and some dom/sub which makes things more exciting!

7.) Jason's Master Plan (to dating the Cute Asian Guy) by Qwertzu (Status: Complete –  9.8k words) –  Teen

Genres: Post-series, Outsider PoV, Humor, Identity Reveal

Jason Hesling, young ice hockey prodigy, rising star of Detroit Ice Tigers and part-time model, had a smile that made women and men alike weak at their knees. It’s been a while since anyone managed to catch his attention – until he met the Cute Asian Guy at Detroit Ice Castle and decided to become his next boyfriend.

Meanwhile, the actual Ice Tiger™ is having the time of his life watching the pretentious JJ-wannabe trying to charm the pants off the completely oblivious, happily married Katsudon.

Hockey jock Jason tries his hardest to woo the “cute Asian guy at Detroit Ice Castle” but isn’t it too bad that said cutie is already happily married to someone else? If only if poor Jason knew.... This fic is honestly a riot and I had such a fun time reading it (and its follow-up fic). It seems to be part of a longer series and I eagerly await more installments! I guess I have a thing for Victuuri breaking everyone’s hearts by being so smitten with each other!

Alternate Universe

1.) Healthy Impropriety by mtothedestiel (Status: Complete – 29.5k words) – Explicit

Genres: Regency AU, Historical, Courtship

Victor is the wealthy master of the Nikiforov estate. At a society party he’s swept off his feet by the mysterious, suave, and very drunk Katsuki Yuuri. Victor aims to declare his love and secure Mr. Katsuki’s hand in marriage, but first he has to find him!

A legit Regency AU in which The Banquet happens Victorian-style and Victor, as always, falls head over heels for drunk Yuuri—who he then sets out to properly court. Victor is a rich, hopeless romantic and Yuuri is a sensible, normal guy trying to live his life. There’s lots of really cute, fluffy scenes between these two with a little bit of angst thrown in there to keep things interesting. It reads like a Jane Austen novel and has a lovely happy ending topped off with some smut!

2.) don’t want to be lonely just want to be yours by Linisy (Status: Incomplete) – Explicit

Genres: Idol AU, Slow Burn, Mutual Pining, Social Media, Alternating PoV

This time the flesh and blood Yuuri wasn't around to distract him, and he watched the video intently, hypnotized by the swing of Yuuri’s hips, the look in his eyes that burned with intensity and the strong, confident line of his shoulders. Yuuri was, as always, breathtaking.

Victor remembered their first meeting well. Yuuri was the last member to join the group. He was soft spoken, and he stood as if he were trying to make himself smaller, shoulders drawn inward, head tilted toward the ground, glasses slipping off his nose. Victor was surprised to hear that he was the second oldest behind Victor himself.

Everything changed the first time he saw him dance. - Vitya, Katsu, Yura, Beka and Chu make up the top idol group SVD. They've been through hell together, living in their tiny dorm and working toward the day they'd finally hit it big. That day has finally come, but sometime over the course of the past three years, Victor has fallen in love with Yuuri Katsuki.

An idol fic that’s full of social media shenanigans, glamour, and emotions. Based on KPop idol groups (like BTS), this fic is a such treat and I can’t even properly articulate why!!! Along with the humor, it’s also incredibly realistic regarding the hardships faced by idol groups due to the heavy restrictions placed on their personal lives by the company that “owns” them. It’s got the right mix of fun and angst and honestly I think about this fic every day. I can’t wait for more!!!!

3.) My Name on Your Lips by feelslikefire (Status: Complete – 108k words) – Explicit

Genres: Historical Fantasy, Magic, Arranged Marriage, Royalty, Alpha/Beta/Omega Dynamics

Yuuri Katsuki has been betrothed to the High King’s son, Victor, since he was just a child; furthermore, as an omega, he’s forbidden from practicing magic in combat. For years, he’s been able to put off the former because the Prince was traveling abroad, and gotten around the latter by practicing with his mentor in secret.

Now Victor Nikiforov has finally returned home, and Yuuri is being summoned to the capital for their wedding. He needs a plan to put off marriage long enough to find a way to break the betrothal, while keeping his practicing from being discovered.

If only the Prince didn’t have other ideas.

(Or, the swords-and-sorcery arranged marriage AU. Updates weekly.)

This is one of my personal favorites, featuring all my fave things: fantasy, magic, battles, intrigue, and a slow-burn! It does have A/B/O elements but even if that’s not your cup of tea you’ll enjoy this fic for all the other wonderful things it has to offer. The world building is great and the plot keeps you interested at all times. Never a dull moment and has a great mix of tension, fluff, angst, etc. Watch these two dorks fall deeply in love while also getting a fully fleshed-out story. It’s beautifully written.

4.)  Yuuri Enchanted by the__magpie (Status: Complete – 57k words)  – Teen

Genres: Fantasy, Fairytale, Slow Burn

At birth, Yuuri Katsuki was given the gift of obedience, although he quickly learns as he grows up that it is a curse. He has to obey any command given to him, even if it puts him or others in danger. Too afraid to face the terrifying outside world, Yuuri stays in his home town of Hasetsu, until a chance encounter with Prince Victor urges him to venture outside of his safe bubble. Determined to break his curse, Yuuri begins on an adventure involving fairies, ogres, true love, and courage he never knew he had.

An Ella Enchanted AU (based more on the book)! A great fairytale read even if you’ve never read the book (or seen the movie). I love it to bits and that’s all I can say!

5.) Retrouvailles by persephoneggsy (Status: Complete – 32k words) – Teen*

Genres: Historical, Childhood Friends, Friends-to-Lovers, Alpha/Beta/Omega Dynamics

retrouvailles: the feeling one gets after reuniting after a long time

After he presents as an Omega, Yuuri Katsuki is sent to study abroad for ten long years. When he returns, he’s far, far different from the adorable little boy that used to follow Victor around like a puppy.

Victor is shook.

A very sweet AU that has that regency-vibe. Features confident ballet dancer Yuuri and hopeless mess Victor. The Russian skating team is all one big family here and it’s great, while all the other skaters are dancers too. It has a shifting perspective between Victor and Yuuri, so we get to see what’s going on in both their heads. The A/B/O is pretty light apart from some plot details, so if that’s not your thing this fic is still very enjoyable. [*There is smut in the final chapter, which can be standalone/ignored, hence why the rating remains T overall.]

6.) A Place Like Home by whatsup_buttercup (Status: Complete -- 7k words) -- Explicit

Genres: Alpha/Beta/Omega Dynamics, Post-series, Emotional Hurt/Comfort

“Do you still skate, Yuuri?” It’s bold of Hiroshi to use his first name, but the familiarity makes sense, considering what they’re discussing.

“No,” Yuuri says, empty. “Not anymore.”

Hiroshi reaches out and puts his hand over Yuuri’s. It’s a little hot from the tea. “If you choose me, we have a rink nearby. I’ll make sure you can skate every day.”

This is a heartbreaking A/B/O in which Yuuri ended things with Victor in Barcelona and is now under pressure to find a suitable mate. Luckily, Victor hasn’t give up on them, no matter what Yuuri may think. It’s a lovely and achingly sweet story, and I was so happy by the end!!!

7.) blood is thicker than by icanhinatashouyoutheworld (Status: Incomplete) – Teen

Genres: Enemies-to-Friends-to-Lovers, Custody Battle, Angst, Fluff, Eventual Romance

“You might be Yuri’s biological parent, Mr. Nikiforov. But I’m his father. If Yuri wants to go with you, that’s one thing,” Yuuri Katsuki’s voice flows quiet and dangerous into the room “but if he doesn’t, don’t think that you’re taking my child away from home,”

Or: Victor Nikiforov finds out he has a son. He wants full custody.

Katsuki Yuuri isn’t going to give up his child that easily.

Or: Victor and Yuuri fight a custody battle for Yurio. Shit happens.

Or: Yuri Plisetsky starts with one parent, and ends up with two.

A unique fic in which Victor is Yurio’s biological father, while Yuuri is his adoptive one. Yuuri is struggling to make ends meet and support his child while Victor is a rich supermodel. The relationship between Yuuri and Yurio is so achingly sweet and it’s very easy to root for Yuuri in this fic. It’ll be great to see how Yuuri and Victor eventually become friends and then lovers—so that they all become one big happy family!

8.) Kings in Couture by slightlied (Status: Incomplete) – Teen

Genres:Slow Burn, Alternate Occupations, Fashion

a devil wears prada au in which victor is the editor-in-chief of a fashion magazine, yuuri’s his new secretary, and instead of talking about his feelings, victor just sends him on a bunch of errands 

A Devil Wears Prada­-esque AU which I stumbled upon and am SO grateful for. It’s funny, cute, and features the whole cast in various roles. Yuuri is adorable and Victor is glamorous as ever. It’s such a fun read!!!

9.) Assassin’s Tango by MEIXIU (Status: Incomplete) – Explicit

Genres: Assassins AU, Secret Identity

They are the world’s most greatest assassins. Their identities are a secret, even from each other. One day, however, they discover that they have been assigned to kill one another and their reality comes crashing down on them both.

This is basically a Mr. and Mrs. Smith AU and I’m super excited about it! Features Victor as a suave hitman who’s still a hopeless romantic, and Yuuri as a clever honeypot—who’s juggling his job, school, and his new whirlwind romance. Lots of hot scenes mingled with fluff. Impending angst on the horizon, but the promise of a happy ending keeps me from crying too hard!

10.) The Rules for Lovers by ADreamingSongbird (Status: Incomplete) – Teen

Genres: Urban Fantasy, Urban Magic, Arranged Marriage, Mutual Pining, Royalty, Multiple PoV

Prince Yuuri Katsuki has a duty to his country, above all else (his desires, his dreams, and his happiness included), and he knows this alliance will help to ensure the safety of his people. That’s the only reason he accepts Prince Nikiforov’s hand in marriage. The pleasant surprise, of course, is the part where they fall in love along the way. The unpleasant one, well…

That’s a long story.

It’s always a treat to watch these two dorks fall hopelessly in love with each other. They might be engaged, but the mutual pinging intense and heart-wrenching. The political intrigue is just as compelling as Yuuri and Victor’s evolving relationship. The story shifts between many character’s perspectives, keeping things interesting. (And there’s some side Mila/Sara too!)

11.) I Write Sins, Not Tragedies by cuttlemefish (Status: Incomplete) -- Explicit

Genres: Arranged Marriage, Social Media, Mutual Pining, Romantic Comedy, Fluff

Things would be a little easier if Yuuri wasn’t so in love with his husband Viktor, especially considering they have an arranged marriage. Two years after their wedding, Yuuri and Viktor are incredibly in love, but can’t seem to get over the hump of their platonic union to consummate their marriage! Good thing Yuuri is the most (in)famous erotic fanfiction author of the Love in the Streets fandom. Now, he’s got the support of the Internet to figure out how to seduce his husband, if only he can continue to keep their identities a secret. Or, the AU in which everyone thinks Yuuri and Viktor have the perfect marriage full of adventurous sex when, in fact, Viktor sleeps in the guest bedroom and Yuuri writes erotic fanfiction to quench his thirst.

This is a HILARIOUS fic and that’s all I can really even say without doing this work a grave injustice. It’s very well-written and there’s no angst like I thought there would be. Just extreme thirst!!! Can’t wait to see these two get their shit together eventually and work off all that pent-up sexual frustration.

12.) Like a Fairytale by lucyamui (Status: Complete – 73.4k words) – Teen

Genres: Historical, Fairytale, Royalty, Fluff

In which Prince Victor gets swept off his feet at a royal banquet and will go to any length to find his ‘Cinderella’ Yuuri. (And Phichit is the fairy godmother who has no idea what he’s doing)

A Cinderella story in which the Grand Prix Banquet happens, in its own fairytale way. This story features enthusiastic Prince Victor and timid baker/pâtissier Yuuri. Along with Phichit as the Fairy God Mother! It’s fluffy, cute, and has plenty of mutual pining.

13.) lie to make me like you by cityboys (Status: Complete – 80k words) – Mature

Genres:Slow Burn, Alternate Occupations

It’s become a game, of sorts, to anyone privy to the fact that the pattern exists in the first place: ask Victor out at the beginning of the month, date for however many days, and wait for the end to come and for Victor to say, always: I couldn’t fall in love with you. Let’s break up.

Or, Victor is a retired actor looking for love, and Yuuri happens to be the (un)fortunate soul to unwittingly ask him out at the beginning of the month. Except relationships don’t come with a script, and it’s much harder understanding love than roles.

This is a wonderful and sweet slow burn featuring a lost Victor who’s trying to find something he doesn’t know he’s searching for, and a Yuuri who refuses to follow the “script” Victor seems to unwittingly run his life by. Yuuri takes no shit from anyone and constantly keeps Victor on his toes with how surprising he can be. I love both of these two here and watching them fit into each other’s lives is a real treat!

14.) All Eyes on Me by Kizuna_Auri (Status: Incomplete) – Explicit

Genres: Sex Worker AU (Camming), Alpha/Beta/Omega Dynamics, Fluff, Smut

Yuuri, under the username of Eros, is a size queen omega who most certainly does not have an obsession with fellow camboy and legendary silver-haired alpha Aria. Just like Phichit is not the most meddlesome roommate known to man.

In which Yuuri and Victor are both camboys who happen to be fans of each other, and get set up to share their heat/rut for their audiences by their bffs and moderators, Phichit and Chris respectively. It’s surprisingly fluffy with alpha!Victor being a total sweetheart and omega!Yuuri being a shy bean who’s trying his best to keep up his Eros persona.This fic also highlights Yuuri’s insecurities and anxiety in a very realistic way and the difficulties than can come with being a camboy. The smut is intense and there’s plenty more plot on the horizon!

15.) The Promise of the World by pilindiel (Status: Incomplete) – Teen

Genres: Fantasy

When a self-conscious young man is cursed with an old body by a spiteful wizard, his only chance of breaking the spell lies with a self-indulgent yet insecure young wizard and his companions in his legged, walking castle.

The Howl's Moving Castle AU we all secretly wanted.

This is a straight up Howl’s Moving Castle AU!!!. Yuuri fits very naturally into the role of Sophie and Victor is a perfect Howl, but I assume we all knew that was the case already! It’s a very good read and has its own deviations from the source material to keep it feeling fresh.

16.)  (Don’t) Ring the Wedding Bells by cuttlemefish (Status: Complete – 45k) – Explicit

Genres: Alternate Occupations, Social Media, Modern-day Cinderella

As (loosely) inspired by real life, this is the wedding reception AU (you didn’t ask for, but will get) in which Yuuri Katsuki catches the bride’s bouquet and (shortly after) gets smashed at a wedding reception, then dirty dances with his best friend, (sort of) seduces a (hot) platinum-haired trust-fund baby named Viktor, and ends up being hounded for his identity (by said trust-fund baby and his friends and family) on social media.

In which rich!Victor ends up getting woo’d by regular-guy!Yuuri at JJ and Isabella’s wedding reception and pulls out all the stops to find Yuuri again after he disappears. And does so in classic Victor style: as dramatically as possible. Meanwhile Yuuri’s just trying to live his life and forget the whole thing happened because of how embarrassing it was, but when you’ve basically become a meme, things get a little complicated. Still, Victor tries very hard to win Yuuri’s heart and Yuuri eventually finds that he’s very much in love. Naturally, there are some bumps along the way, but these two are made to last. It’s an overall fun AU that has its touching (and sexy) moments too! (May also be a part of a future series?)

17.) Imprisioned by Linisy (Status: Incomplete) – Mature

Genres: Supernatural (Ghosts), Slow Burn

For the past two years, Yuuri has been endlessly tormented by malevolent spirits. Just as he finds himself at the end of his rope, he meets Victor, an enigmatic man who possesses the ability to relieve him.

An AU in which both Yuuri and Victor have powers they don’t quite want, but find that the other might be what they need. Yuuri is a nervous ball of anxiety in this fic because of his ability to see ghosts, and Victor’s own ability leaves him generally isolated from people out of fear of getting too close to them. The whole concept is very unique and I absolutely adore cold(but kind)!Victor gradually warming up to Yuuri. Their interactions are great to read and get me every time!!!

18.) Bottle Me Your Smile by Ncj700 (Status: Incomplete) – Teen

Genres: Magic AU, Apothecary AU

In a tiny village on the edge of the kingdom, Yuuri Katsuki – common as mud Apothecary owner – embarks on a goal to achieve a childhood goal. With the help of the world’s greatest magical, he will achieve it.

A super cute fantasy AU that features Yuuri who’s a talented witch when it comes to potionmaking among other things, but is captivated by the powerful sorcerer Victor. Inspired, Yuuri tries to pursue a path of battlemagic, only to spectacularly fail and return to his home to live a quiet, humble life in his little apothecary. However, as fate would have it, Victor and Yuuri’s paths cross unexpectedly, and I can’t wait to see what adventures will unfold! Lovely world building and characterization.

19.)  His Was Gold by AL_KILLER (Status: Incomplete) – Mature

Genres: Historical AU, Harem AU, Slow Burn, Angst

There were dozens of men and women in Tsar Victor Nikiforov’s harem, all of them attractive, ravishing, and beautiful. They wore provocative clothing, sweet smelling perfumes, and sparkling jewelry designed to catch the eye. All in hopes of being chosen by the Tsar for just one night.

Yuuri was the only one in the harem who didn’t want to be chosen. Yet, Yuuri was the only one the Tsar wanted.

I don’t usually read dark fics because I’m fairly sensitive and fragile, BUT! This one is amazingly well-written and evokes such powerful imagery that grips you and doesn’t let go. There’s an air of mystery here that is partly due to Yuuri’s limited perspective and also due to his unreliable-as-always narration, which the author uses masterfully. Even if you’re not a fan of dark fics, I suggest giving this one a go—it’s worth it. (Warnings for graphic descriptions of violence.)

20.) Story About You by heartsinhay (Status: Incomplete) – Teen

Genres: FanFic, Slow Burn, Humor

After his disastrous Japanese Nationals, Yuuri turns to the only thing that can comfort him: his old fanfic. Halfway across the world, Victor does the same thing.

Just picked up this fic the other day! Yes the “self-insert fic” is super cringey, but of course that’s the point! It’s hilarious to see poor Yuuri despair at his old writing (because, well, relatable) and to be caught off guard by a sudden fan of his works. I wonder who else would be suddenly and intensely interested in the little Katsuki Yuuri/Victor Nikiforov ship in the figure skating “fandom,” haha! ;)

21.)  23. M. Looking for a challenge. by alykapedia (Status: Incomplete) – Teen*

Genre: Academic AU, Tinder AU, Humor,

“A cute boy with an ass like that says he’s up for a challenge and you send him a math problem?" (Giacometti, 2017).

A (not-so) comprehensive study on the (terrible) mating habits of (beautiful) grad student, Yuuri Katsuki, and (future) Nobel Laureate Viktor Nikiforov D. Sc.

(Or: That one where two physicists fall in love and set off a nuclear reaction. Except not really.)

Another new one that was recommended to me by friends and honestly, I LOVE IT. It’s the academic au you’ve always wanted and never knew you needed! Both Yuuri and Victor are adorable (yet crazy smart) in this and its just so clever in its writing. (*The rating might go up.)

Shameless self promotion:

1.) Celestial Gravitation (Status: Incomplete) – Explicit

Genres: Space AU, Fantasy AU, Action-Adventure, Political, Slow Burn

The Rossiyan Empire controls most of the galaxy. Most, but not all--not yet. The solution to the Emperor's ambitions lies in a rumored ancient weapon hidden on a lost world. The small, peaceful planet of Yamato holds the key to unlocking and utilizing said weapon. To secure their interests, the Emperor and his talented son--Prince Victor--venture to the planet to obtain the key: Prince Yuuri of Yamato. Knowing that any resistance could mean endangering his homeworld, Prince Yuuri and his family agree to the Emperor's terms. But he has foreseen this day coming and he will not go along with their plans as quietly as the Empire may expect him to.

What he hasn't foreseen, however, is the unlikely bond he develops with Prince Victor--a man he should be destined to hate, but finds he cannot.

If only galactic politics and ancient secrets didn't get in the way of love.

(A slow-burn, space-adventure AU in which there is advanced technology as well as magic.)

2.) Tessellation (Status: Incomplete) – Teen

Genres: Retelling, Victor PoV

It started at the banquet--the day Victor's life dramatically changed course. And from there, it was all uphill.

A Victor-POV project that follows the show episodically, for the most part. In other words: the show from Victor's point of view.

[harocat]

Hey so I love your YOI meta and writing and I was wondering if you had any fic recs that are IC by *your* standards? I feel like I keep getting into stuff that just doesn't get Victor or that puts everyone's skills above Yuuri's :/ AU is fine as I'm pretty sure all my dnw you've complained about at some point lol

Ahhh yeah! And I’ve noticed even in AUs so often it’s that Victor is still a championship figure skater, whereas Yuuri gets stuck with something really mundane. And sometimes authors will even admit it’s just because they ~can’t bear to take Victor’s beautiful skating away~ , but it’s fine to do so to Yuuri?? :(

But yeah it gets tiring to see Victor’s skills valued so highly over Yuuri’s especially when the series was so much about how exceptional he really was and he literally BROKE VICTOR’S RECORD. 

Oneshots that are literally all YUURI IS A GREAT SKATER!! 

And the answer is… by nessiesaur

#4ContsFigure by animaginaryquill

like a design by jinlian

begin to be half of what you think of me by kevystel

AUs I really like: 

My Hero, Yuuri by Abarero (underappreciated, compared to these other ones at least, and so good. Yuuri is SUPER badass in this and Victor is lovingly and sensitively written) 

all the world’s a stage by braveten

Beside the Dancing Sea by lily_winterwood

I know that’s only a few, but I’ll throw some more recommendations up later. I need to dig around!! 

[rainbowravioli]

Hello! So I've pretty much gushed over all your meta posts about YOI. You mentioned in the preface to your Ep. 12 breakdown meta that you read fanfiction every night. I wanted to know what your favorite and most treasured YOI fics are? I need all the reading I can on these precious babies because my heart is too full but I need to make it fuller. Thanks!

Oh god someone paid attention that embarrassing disclaimer. Thanks for enjoying the meta though.

I don’t have an ao3 account so it took me a while to hunt down all the fics I wanted (and I’m still missing things T-T). I’m so sorry this is late! 

Also these are all Victuuri because that’s the one tag I frequent…So, in no particular order.

Hallelujah - mizael

Viktor’s thumb on his lower lip, his fingers resting on Yuuri’s neck.

This was posted when only episode 1 had aired and yet it’s this fantastically written insight on Yuuri that still holds up even after watching the rest of the season.

Sleep With Me - YurikoNeko (AlaxxisSade)

The story of how Yuuri slowly gets used to Viktor, in a way.

This is dialogue only and yet I could picture every scene as I read. Really cute and funny.

Momentum - YankingAwry

Here was how the scene went in Yuuri’s head:

Victor, frozen, clueless: the ruins of a smile on his face. But Yuuri, I thought you knew! It was only to surprise you. It meant nothing more-

Yuuri: spine limp, head hanging, tears streaking down his face and collecting at his chin, dripping like an old faucet onto the ground. Words exploding out of his mouth, wet, glottal: Then just stop! Stop doing things that mean nothing to you, and everything to me!

Yuuri’s anxiety doing its thing and Yuuri overthinking things like a pro. Really made my heart ache but ended up delivering on the fluff side of things.

The Magic of Your Sighs - kevystel

Makkachin’s asleep by the time Viktor reaches the clinic. Viktor sits down on the sofa beside him, buries his face in Makkachin’s fur and breathes.

Victor’s side of the story in episode 9. Great atmosphere. Goes from heartbreaking to really funny to just…warm. This is part of a series and all parts are good but I’m just particularly fond of this one.

Yuuri Katsuki Secret Route Walkthrough/FAQ - Metis_Ink

The otome community uncovers the mysteries of the Nikiforov-Katsuki Route, one of the most difficult and overly-complicated routes in a game supposedly just about ice skating.

This is a fic after my own heart. Just fantastic and so unique! I honestly wish this game existed, I would work so hard for that secret route.

Advent Calendar - sushicorps (Inclinant)

“…It’s an advent calendar,” Yuuri explains as he places it down on the table. Viktor steps up and runs a hand along the smooth surface of the elaborate set of giftboxes, each carefully wrapped and nestled in their own compartment, with a number painted next to them, clearly handmade.

“Is this…for me? For Christmas?”

Yuuri flushes and ducks his head.

“It’s for your birthday too. It’s on Christmas, isn’t it?”

Pure, adorable, Christmas themed fluff, just how I like it.

first - Robin_Hoods

“So.” Yuuko giggles into the phone. “What was kissing Victor Nikiforov for the first time like?”

I really appreciate the Yuuri/Yuko friendship here that is often ignored by the fandom. Very sweet, lots of little touches I really like.

with a boy like that it’s serious - kevystel

‘I’m dating Viktor,’ Yuuri says, nervous despite himself.‘Seriously?’ Yurio demands. ‘I thought the two of you were already married.’(Viktor Nikiforov and Katsuki Yuuri are an item. The world reacts.)

Just the best coming out fic. All of the reactions are on point and it has bonus gold medalist Yuuri (AKA what he deserved).

Five Times Viktor and Yuuri Were Jealous of Makkachin (and the one time they weren’t) - braveten

“Viktor will do whatever is necessary in order to never see Yuuri cry again. He’d walk miles across broken glass. He’d relinquish all of his gold medals to JJ Leroy. He’d let Phichit hack his Instagram account.”Viktor and Yuuri are jealous of Makkachin on multiple occasions, but the adorable brown poodle might be the only way to get them to realize their love for one another.

Makkachin flavoured fluff + great characterization. Really sweet and funny.

get up again - snowdarkred

When Yuuri was drafted by the Detroit Red Wings, it was a dream come true. Years of practice, of hard work, of talking to scouts and agents, of posting his own highlights on Youtube — it all paid off. Sure, he went in the seventh round, surrounded by players who were probably never going to make the show, but Pavel Datsyuk went in the sixth and look at his career. Yuuri was going to make it. He moved all the way across the world for this, competed internationally for this, bled and cried for this. He was going to make it to the NHL.Yuuri didn’t make it.

The brilliant hockey AU I never knew I needed.

Victor Nikiforov - pardonthelitany

“What do you need, Victor?”Victor Nikiforov comes back to St. Petersburg, back to skating, and back to the person he was before all too easily. He is a god amongst men, a reigning hero, an icon, an idol, and he is just so tired.

THE post-episode 12 fic for me. Gorgeous, poetic, heartbreaking writing. I just love this one a lot.

Five Times Chris’s Dating Advice Was Ignored By Russian Skaters - liliths

—and one time it wasn’t.

Christophe Giacometti. Twenty-five. Cat lover, chocolate eater. Professional Swiss figure skater and confirmed Grand Prix finalist. Running an unofficial dating advice ring for Russian skaters who don’t listen to him to begin with. How did his life come to this?

Being Chris is suffering.

the language of flowers - liliths

FLORIOGRAPHY — (noun) The language of flowers, sometimes called floriography, is a means of cryptological communication through the use or arrangement of flowers. Origin: Latin floris (flowers).

In which Victor and Yuuri inspire each other through Victorian flower language. Alternate universe.

I’m really into flowers (flower shop AUs >>> coffee shop AUs) so this fic was just perfect for all my flower centric AUs needs.

For Your Time (I’ll Give You This Smile) - Liana_Legaspi

“Do you love me?” the King of Day says to Yuuri’s retreating back.

Stop.

Think.

“I haven’t decided yet.” Yuuri confesses, “I might hate you.”

There’s a smile in Viktor’s voice that’s sweeter than any lullaby Yuuri’s ever heard. “Then, if that’s the case, I’ll wait with you until you decide.”´

So I really love @beanpots​ Day and Night AU…on that note, I also really enjoyed

Of Cloudless Climbs and Starry Skies series - Maiden_of_the_Moon

Onwards!

Red Square on Ice - Naraht

Before the Rostelecom Cup, Yuuri and Victor go skating on Red Square, and Yuuri gains some insight into what it’s like being the hero of Russia.

Victor being the legend and Yuuri having to deal with his feeling over it. Really great Yuuri introspection.

Instagram is Not an Ice Rink - ladanse

Phichit’s phone buzzes. christophe-gc has posted a new photo, it tells him. When he thumbs the screen, it brightens to reveal a shot of Christophe Giacometti, lounging on a bench, wearing nothing but a Speedo and his skates. greetings from your local king of selfies, says the caption.

Phichit doesn’t actually know Chris - not personally. He has nothing to prove. But Phichit is also, categorically, a competitive little shit, and he knows he can do better.

So it begins.

The instagram fic we deserve!

i’ve been up nights making you my god - kevystel

The flight is twelve hours and Yuuri sleeps the whole time, head on Viktor’s shoulder, hand curled in Viktor’s jacket pocket underneath their shared blanket, earbuds buzzing a quiet insect harmony in the space between their throats. Viktor snores. Yuuri drools.

(Or, Viktor Nikiforov is very much in love and doesn’t know how to deal with it)

Really lovely characterization and relationship portrayal, as usual.

patinage - silvermyth

“Yuuri…” Victor knelt in front of him, and Yuuri hissed in pain when Victor pulled one battered foot into his lap. “How long have you been a skater, hm?” It was chiding, but Victor’s hands were gentle as he inspected tender blisters and welts. “How are you supposed to skate your best when your feet are in such a poor state?”Yuuri shifted uncomfortably. “It’s nothing…”Victor’s hands stilled around Yuuri’s ankle and his face grew serious. “Yuuri. If you’re to win the Grand Prix Final, you’ll need to be at your best.” He gave Yuuri’s ankle a light squeeze. “That includes this.”

Really soft and sweet fluff with wonderful characterization and just a lot of details I really love.

your love is my turning page - cityboys

Victor and the hours he spends waiting, reflecting and figuring things out.

Set parallel to Episode 9.

Another episode 9 from Victor’s perspective fic. I love all the interactions between Victor and Yuuri’s loved ones. Also, Victor properly learning about Vicchan like I always wanted.

lie to make me like you - cityboys

It’s become a game, of sorts, to anyone privy to the fact that the pattern exists in the first place: ask Victor out at the beginning of the month, date for however many days, and wait for the end to come and for Victor to say, always: I couldn’t fall in love with you. Let’s break up.Or, Victor is a retired actor looking for love, and Yuuri happens to be the (un)fortunate soul to unwittingly ask him out at the beginning of the month. Except relationships don’t come with a script, and it’s much harder understanding love than roles.

I know (and like) what this is based on. It also involves the entertainment industry (I’m biased) so I clicked this thinking “alright, impress me”. And it really did.

#KissOrHug - Aurum

Yuuri and Victor make #Victuri trend worldwide. Phichit accidentally makes it worse.

Another Phichit + social media fic I really enjoy, especially with how it translates that particular fandom debate to in-universe terms. The interactions with the other skaters are all so good.

Unspoken - daretoliveforever

“You see Yuuri, when your soulmate says something about you, like a compliment or a special message, their words will appear on your skin.“

Soulmate AU where Yuuri is mute and soulmate marks are dependent of spoken words.

Help I love soulmate AUs. This fic just…really got to me. Especially the ending.

Stay Close to Me - dasedandconfuzed

At the Grand Prix Final, Yuuri misses the podium by fractions of a point. Embroiled in a skating controversy, he tells himself he’ll prove his worth in the World Championships, but there’s a long time in between.

Or: Vicchan lives.

Very lyrical and dynamic prose and just a wonderfully written Yuuri.

like your french girls - ebenroot

“Victor,” Yuri begins, lowering the eighteenth sketch of the figure skater Victor drew this week, “you have a fucking problem.”

–

in which Victor is an artist, Yuuri is his figure skating muse, and Yuri is so done hearing about their stupid love story through Instagram

While this fic was updating I kept the tab open and would refresh it every day to see if there was a new chapter. I don’t know, something about this fic just really got to me, I really love it.

all the world’s a stage - braveten

Everyone has a guilty pleasure.

For Yuuri, it just happens to be romance movies starring famous heartthrob Victor Nikiforov.

(And, honestly, on the spectrum of guilty pleasures, he figures that his on the far, far more innocent side.)

I’m weak for entertainment industry AUs, ok?

Kono Kanji - SuggesttiveScribe

“I’m trying to write this message in Japanese, but my phone is suggesting all these kanji and I don’t know which one is correct…”Yuuri took a few steps toward Viktor, sinking down to his knees directly behind him as not to bother the inhabitants on either side. He gently placed his hand on Viktor’s shoulder, steadying himself as he peered over it and scanned the message displayed on Viktor’s phone screen.“Oh, you’re writing my name.”

I can’t contain my love for language barrier explorations and for this fic in general. Just…just wonderful!

Deluded - SuggestiveScribe

“Say Yuuri,” he began, gently brushing off the legs of his slacks, “do you know much ballroom?”“Uhm, well,” Yuuri was wringing his hands now, suddenly overflowing with anxious energy, “Just the very basics that helped with skating. It was mostly ballet for m–”Viktor extended his hand where he stood, arm and fingers outstretched and beckoning to Yuuri, “Then you know how to waltz.”

My favourite Victuuri fic that involves dancing.

The next set of fics are still on-going but I’m enjoying them a lot so far.

expomise - thankyouforexisting

Expomise: a transformation spell that bonds two objects together./ Yuuri is at Hogwarts. So is everyone else./“Hey,” Yuuri dares to say, voice low, “Maybe we should write this down…?”“Oh,” Victor blinks in surprise at him, his long fingers wrapped around a long dark brown wand, “Sure, you can take notes.”Pause. Yuuri doesn’t really want to say anything, but he powers through. He’s going to make new friends and be more outgoing, he has to. “Aren’t you gonna do it, though? Do you have a really great memory?”The boy stares at him as if he’s from another planet, “I’m Victor Nikiforov.”

Yuuri stares back, uncomprehending, “Yeah, you have a cool name.”

“No, I mean,” Victor purses his lips, frowning in confusion, glancing to check if their Professor’s looking at them, “I’m like, Victor Nikiforov.”

Switched - GhostsOnSaturn

Soulmates AU where your consciousness occasionally swaps places with that of your soulmate for varying amounts of time.

Katsuki Yuuri was just six years old when it first happened. He had been minding his own business, quite happily drawing an interesting rendition of a bird perched outside his window, and had blinked only to find himself somewhere completely different.He let out a shout of alarm - but it wasn’t his voice - and all of a sudden, feet that were far too big to be his slipped out from underneath him and he found himself lying on something very hard, and very cold.

Strut - Panny

All Victor had ever wanted was to skate on the same ice as his idol, Yuuri Katsuki, as an equal. All Yuuri wanted was to be a figure skating hermit and ignore the world.

And if neither of them could have what they wanted? Well, maybe that was for the best.

Dear Yuri - Kei on Ice (Maki_Kei), Mr_Beans

After winning a gold metal at the Grand Prix Final together as coach and student, Viktor and Yuuri decide to settle down and start careers as coaches under Yakov. The classes they coach range anywhere from singular, experienced students, to a regular group of small children from a nearby orphanage. But when the orphanage brings along a young, stubborn, blond Yuri with determination in his eyes and fire in his step, he quickly seizes hold of Viktor and Yuuri’s hearts.

Bear Your Soul on the Ice - SassySalchow (diedraechin)

At age fourteen, Katsuki Yuuri had been determined to be Japan’s next great figure skating hope, but with no coach that would never happen, so his ballet instructor packs him up off to Russia to train with Yakov Feltsman. The Yakov Feltsman, otherwise known as the coach to rising figure skating star – and Yuuri’s idol – Viktor Nikiforov.

urgent need of gravity - Hitsugi_Zirkus

“Yuuri,” Phichit waved the magazine in front of his face, “you collect every single magazine that Viktor is in, have his spreads on your wall, follow his fashion tours online, and probably fantasize about seductively applying his lipstick. I say, what do you have to lose?”

Yuuri opened his mouth. Closed it. Then he reached out and snatched his magazine back. How the hell did Phichit know about that fantasy anyway?

OR,

AU in which Yuuri is a make-up artist working in a small salon when he’s suddenly invited to work for big time fashion brand Stammi Vicino right alongside its top male model, Viktor Nikiforov, and love isn’t all glitter and perfectly-winged eyeliner.

BONUS! The following fics are my “Hotel Scene Fix-it” collection, AKA “every fan depiction of that scene is better than what we got” collection

Of Glass and Gold - smudgesofink

“Just hear me out,” Yuuri presses. He can feel heat burning behind his eyes and he grits his teeth, fighting back the tears. If he cries now, Victor will be too occupied with comforting him to actually pay attention to what he’s saying. “I want you to be happy.”

“I am,” Victor grounds out, confused and hurt. “I’m happy with you. What even gave you the idea that I’m not?“

“Because I’m never going to win gold!” Yuuri shouts. His words echo like a gunshot, and the silence that follows it is haunting.

(In which Victor is gold–magnificent, breathtaking, brilliant–and Yuuri is glass–transparent, thin, breakable.)

when the walls come down - mori (cityboys)

Being with Yuuri, sometimes, is like a game of tug-of-war.

I Live to Let You Shine - philatos

“I’m making you give up on yourself just so I can keep you with me. I don’t think I could live with myself if I did that, Victor”

“You didn’t make me give up on anything. I chose to come here, to do this. I chose you, Yuri.”

“Yeah well, maybe you shouldn’t have.”

let’s not talk of endings when we’ve just begun - silver_atalanta

“Oh my Yuuri,” Viktor says, as gently as he knows how. “What’s happened? What is making you say this?”

that would be enough - arduous_ardor

“After the final, let’s end this.” These words flow through Victor like ice, and Victor struggles to understand the self-doubt which threatens to destroy Yuuri from the inside out.

And that’s it for now. That got long. Again,sorry for the wait and thank you for your patience.