One great fanfic could be 'The Redemption of Spike'. It delves into Spike's journey towards redemption while also having some interesting interactions with Angel. Another might be 'Angel and Spike: Allies in the Dark'. This fanfic shows them working together against a new and powerful evil in Sunnydale. And 'Soulmates or Foes? Angel and Spike' is also a good one, exploring the complex relationship between the two characters in a unique way.
In many fanfics, Spike often develops from his more villainous self towards redemption. For example, he might start to feel remorse for his past actions and strive to be better. Angel, on the other hand, may face new challenges that test his already established moral code. Their development is often intertwined as they interact. In some fanfics, Spike's brashness can push Angel to re - evaluate his own reserved nature.
There's an author named Catherine White. Her fanfictions about Spike are known for their beautiful prose and in - depth character analysis. One of her works, 'Spike's True Self', really peels back the layers of Spike's character. Another great author is Paul Harris. He has a knack for writing Spike in different time periods and situations, like in his 'Spike Through the Ages' series. And don't forget about Anne Miller, who creates some really heart - warming and sometimes heart - breaking stories about Spike.
One common theme is protection. Spike often ends up protecting Dawn from various threats, whether it be vampires or other supernatural beings. It shows his growth from a more self - centered character to someone who cares about Dawn's well - being.
One interesting fanfiction could be about Spike's redemption arc in an alternate universe. Maybe he meets Buffy much earlier and their relationship develops in a completely different way, with him being more of a reluctant hero from the start. Another could be a time - travel story where Buffy and Spike are sent back to a crucial moment in the show's history and have to change things without messing up the timeline too much. And there are also those that focus on their emotional connection, like a story where Spike has to deal with his love for Buffy while she's in a coma.
Love and relationships are also prevalent. Whether it's a romantic relationship between Spike and the OC or a platonic bond that changes him, these relationships are often central to the story. For example, in some fanfics, the OC is the one who finally makes Spike believe in true love again.
One great Spike fanfiction is 'After the Fall'. It delves deep into Spike's character after the events of the series. It shows his continued struggle with his vampire nature and his complex relationships. Another is 'Spike's Redemption'. This story focuses on Spike's journey towards redemption, exploring how he tries to make up for his past misdeeds. And 'Love in the Darkness' is also quite interesting, which portrays a unique love story involving Spike.
One common theme is protection. Since Spike is a powerful vampire, many fanfics have him protecting Dawn from various threats in Sunnydale. Another theme is friendship. They often form a unique bond that is different from their relationships with other characters in the show.
A really good starting point could be 'Once More, with Feeling' by various authors. This fanfic collection is inspired by the musical episode of the show. It has a lot of creativity in terms of how the characters are developed further in the musical - themed stories. There are different takes on the relationships and the overall Buffy - verse, which makes it an interesting read.
One interesting aspect of 'Buffy the Vampire Slayer Earshot' fanfic could be the exploration of Buffy's character in a more in - depth way. In the original episode, we see her struggle with her slayer duties and personal relationships. Fanfic might expand on how she deals with the knowledge she gains in 'Earshot', like her thoughts on the secrets she overheard. It could also delve into her relationships with her friends, perhaps showing a different side of her interactions with Xander, Willow or Giles.