If you get a comment from a user named 'jwct123' asking for requests, block them. They have a nasty habit of commenting on any F/F fics involving smut and asking the author if they take requests for their own fandoms, without giving kudos or commenting on the fic otherwise. Their profile shows no bio, no bookmarks, no works of their own, just gifts from other authors they've managed to manipulate into writing works for them.
In general, be wary of users like that. You're not fic machines, and you deserve some decency. <3
Supercorp AU Fic Recs Part 4 - Different Realities
In the fourth part of my SuperCorp (Supergirl) AU Femslash Fanfiction Recommendation, I have collected 13 excellent Kara Danvers/Lena Luthor Alternate Universe (AU) stories which Kara and Lena live very different lives and meet under very different circumstances from the show: Stories in which they are actresses, models, singers, figure skaters, baristas or professional cuddlers - and one in which Kara is French.
This collection includes many of my favorite SuperCorp fics and is maybe the ultimate testament how many talented authors have poured their creative energy into different ways for Kara and Lena to fall in love.
Nearly all of the included stories are No powers AUs, in which Kara is human. All of the stories have a happy ending.
Overview of the 13 Kara / Lena stories
Detailed recs and links after the cut. My favorites are marked with *
A) Actor and Model AUs
No one mourns the wicked * by kellsbells: The wickedly angsty musical AU
We're playing to a full house, darling (but this show can't go on) * by The_Ominous_Owl: The actors AU in which Kara is an actress that used to play Supergirl
Blockbuster (it's the movie au ok) by unnecessary_databass: The nonlinear actors rom-com
Maybe we were made to dance around each other, babe by goon: The Kara/Lena and Alex/Lucy model/singer AU
B) Coffee Shop/Barista AUs
Dripping Onto You by spymaster: The Barista & Public Pool AU
The Name Game - A SuperCorp Coffee Shop AU by DKGwrites: The Coffee Shop AU
C) Other Job AUs
These feelings I can't fight * by Jazzfordshire: The Ice Skating AU
Hold me, my dear (and don't let go) * by potstickermaster: The Cuddler Fic
D) Fluffy/Happy No Powers AUs
As luck would have it by spacemanearthgirl: The fake dating AU in which Lena rescues Kara from Mike
Jar of Happiness by Cloud_Lightning: The sweet AU in which the Luthors are not evil
Of Charcoal Lines and Accents by IHaveTheWrongGlass: The College AU in which Kara is a French exchange student
I'll be your muse? by heryellowcup: The College AU in which Lena models for Kara’s art class
What if I asked you to stay? * by heryellowcup: The one in which Kara and Lena are neighbors
This series includes
Supercorp AU Fic Recs Part 1 - Distorted Realities: of Time Travel, Amnesia and Black Mercies [tumblr] [WordP]
Supercorp AU Fic Recs Part 2 - Hope and Despair: of Lighter and Darker Worlds [tumblr] [WordP]
Supercorp AU Fic Recs Part 3 - Complicated Realities: Weddings, One Night Stands and Friends with Benefits [tumblr] [WordP]
Supercorp AU Fic Recs Part 4 - Different Realities: Actors, Baristas and Other No Powers AUs [this post] [tumblr] [WordP]
Notes:
Originally this was planned to be the last AU recs part, but there might by one more. This collection took me a while to compile and I concluded it in July 2019 (between the end of the shows 4th and before the 5th season), but most stories were written and finished long before that.
This post might be a bit long for tumblr and with the links above you can also the complete series on my blog.
A) Actor and Model AUs
The actor AUs of course share a few similarities (and I loved them all) but they all are quite distinct and different enough to include all of them here.
One aspect in which they are clearly different is in the amount of angst: Most of them are not to not particular angsty, but No one mourns the wicked has a substantial amount of angst. It also carries over the strongest Lena tries to redeem for the sins of her family vibes from the show, although this is also present in we're playing to a full house, darling.
1) The wickedly angsty musical AU
No one mourns the wicked by kellsbells
Kara Danvers/Lena Luthor (Supercorp) (f/f)
Completed, 16 chapter, 69k words, 2017-2018
Mature
Lena Luthor has just reluctantly returned to her role as Elphaba after a messy break up with her co-star. Her new co-star is a young, enthusiastic and incredibly talented performer who initially drives Lena crazy in the worst way. In time it becomes clear that they have a less-than-ideal history, along with a chemistry that neither can fight. Can they make it together despite the history between them?
This actors AU that takes place behind the scenes of a Wicked musical production. You don't need to know anything about musicals or the particular musical that is featured in this fic (I did neither) to enjoy the story, the story explains everything you need to know (and not more). This is a no powers AU, but the author manages to construct a background that creates a very similar tension between Kara’s and Lena’s families (and where Kara is coming from) as the Super vs Luthor dynamic in canon.
While this is clearly a Kara / Lena story, this is not the only relationship we come across in the story. There is background Sanvers (pretty usual in SuperCorp fics) and there are more past and present ships that are discussed and/or shown: we have Kara / James and a hint of SuperCat (actually Kara crushing on Cat) and several reverences to one of Lena's previous relationship. I loved that Cat was Kara’s mentor and how the story dealt with Kara’s crush on her.
This is a novel length story with a long story arc with ups and downs: while most fanfics have a relatively linear romance progression towards a happy ending, this one has a more complex plot that features a pretty substantial crisis in their relationship (that I don't want to spoil).
This is a brilliant, very well written story. A long story that was very well paced and never felt too long. Absolutely loved it. One of my favorites.
Favorite Quote
You need your pills, am I right?”
Lena looked startled, but nodded. ...
“How did you know?”
Kara touched Lena’s forehead gently, right between her eyes.
“You get a tiny line here when you’re especially tired or in pain,” she said, stroking Lena’s forehead slightly with her thumb automatically. She swore internally when she realised what she’d done.
Lena took a breath, one that hitched just a little, and Kara took her hand back.
“You always knew me best,” Lena said, turning away.
I thought I did.
2) The actors AU in which Kara is an actress that used to play Supergirl
we're playing to a full house, darling (but this show can't go on) by The_Ominous_Owl ; @the-ominous-owl
Kara Danvers/Lena Luthor (Supercorp) (f/f)
Completed, 9 chapter, 37k words, 2017
AU, actors, fandom, consAU, actors, fandom, cons
Kara’s struggling to find work. Lena’s struggling to find herself. When fate (with some help from Cat Grant) casts them into the same orbit they find themselves completely off-script, because while everyone knows about the sins of the father, they're somewhat less clear about the sins of one’s siblings. Throw into that an audience hungry for stories at the expense of fact, a showrunner with a plan nobody saw coming, and a co-star who steadfastly refuses to keep it in his pants, and you’ve got a tale so dramatic even the protagonists have noticed.
or
the one where they’re both actresses with a surprising amount of baggage for two people who haven’t met yet.
Kara Danvers is an actress who played Supergirl in a series of movies until her boss Lex Luthor ruined the movie series, the whole studio and it seems Kara's whole career with it.
Set behind the scenes of a successful crime mystery show, at the core of this story is a love triangle. While Mon-El/Mike, Kara and Lena love triangles are not that unusual in Supergirl fic, this story turns it on its head as Lena and Mike are a coupe at the start of the story (or are they?).
Usually I don't like love triangle all that much, but I enjoyed it in this story - I guess because it was written well, was less of a traditional triangle, and ultimately nobody I cared about got hurt. (emphasis on nobody I cared).
While there is drama and angst, it is pretty benign compare to No one mourns the wicked. I really enjoyed the look at fandom, especially when the cast of the crew went to a con. This is a wonderful and well written story that I loved.
Favorite Quote
“What?” Alex looked up at her, distracted, then waved a hand. “Your thing’s easy. Lena’s in love with you but she’s convinced herself that she doesn’t deserve you because her family looks like a Bond Villains Anonymous meeting and she thinks you’ll never reciprocate,” she explained, glaring back down at her phone and oblivious to the way Kara was staring at her with wide eyes, her mouth opening and closing soundlessly. “My thing is that Lucy is being a stubborn, infuriating pain in the—what?” she asked, finally looking up to notice her sister’s poleaxed expression.
It took several seconds for Kara to force words up through her throat. “Lena doesn’t…She’s not…”
Alex smiled sadly at her, leaning over to rescue her ice-cream before it slipped from her slackened grip. “Kara, I love you, but there is a reason I am a cop and you are an actress. Trust me, Captain Oblivious, Lena’s been completely gone on you for months, ...
3) The nonlinear actors rom-com
blockbuster (it's the movie au ok) by unnecessary_databass ; @unnecessary-database
Kara Danvers/Lena Luthor (Supercorp) (f/f)
Completed, 30 chapter, 90k words, 2018-2019
Kara Danvers and Lena Luthor are the stars of a groundbreaking new lesbian blockbuster. It's the film that makes you cry, wins all the awards, and defeats all the stereotypes. And the chemistry between the stars in real life is insane. Everyone says so. Except for them. Mhm.
it's the freaking movie au all in one place wouldya look at that
This is an oblivious idiots in love rom-com. Unusual for fanfic it is a non-linear fic, in fact it jumps around quite a bit in the timeline and it is done very well.
This well written fic started out as a serial fic on tumble.
Favorite Quote
“I still don’t understand what’s so funny about my abs,” Kara said petulantly, jerking her hips so Lena rolled off her.
“Because you eat like a starving five year old at a birthday party whose parents never let them have sugar,” Lena said, waving aside the information like it wasn’t important.
4) The Kara/Lena and Alex/Lucy model/singer AU
maybe we were made to dance around each other, babe by goon
Kara Danvers/Lena Luthor (Supercorp), Alex Danvers/Lucy Lane (Director Danvers) (f/f)
Completed, 4 chapter, 21k words, 2017
The next day, Kara's phone almost overheats from the sheer number of text messages she receives. Most of them are from her publicist, insisting she call them. Some are from Eliza and Alex and the other angels, others from people she hasn't spoken to in three years and one from Lucy just reads, hahahahahahahahahahahaha with a thumbs up emoji.
The close to crack AU where Kara and Lucy are models, Lena is a popstar and Alex is like wtf (basically the Karlie Kloss and Taylor Swift AU)
Unusual for fan fic there is not a main and a background pair, but two equal main relationships: Kara/Lena (SuperCorp) and Alex/Lucy (Director Danvers).
Each of the four chapters in told from one of the four protagonists point of view. One from Kara, one from Lucy, one from Lena and one from Alex. And this works amazingly well.
This is a pretty angst free story especially for Kara and Lena. There is a bit of angst for Lucy as without wanting to, she is falling in love with Alex, while doubting that Alex really does want a relationship.
Pretty lighthearted. An excellent and well written fic, that I enjoyed.
Favorite Quote
"I'm on a massive billboard in front of your apartment!"
Lena gives her a puzzled look, eyebrows drawn together. "My band is on the massive billboard next to your massive billboard in front of my apartment, and we're also on the cover of Rolling Stone this month."
Kara winces. "Cool, so I'm just blind and deaf then." Lena grins at her knowingly, probably because she's too nice just to say yeah, you are, or maybe because this method is extra smug. She opens her mouth to say something else, but Lucy stumbles back into the fold, cheeks flushed and glowing.
B) Coffee Shop AUs
1) The Barista & Public Pool AU
Dripping Onto You by spymaster ; @spymasters-blog
Kara Danvers/Lena Luthor (Supercorp) (f/f)
Completed, 4 chapter, 23k words, 2017
Meaningless sex to lovers
Kara went to relax at the pool where she met with Lena and they fucked in the shower room
In this no powers AU Kara is a barista. The story, however, does mostly takes place outside a coffeeshop. Lena and Kara meet at a pool. They have sex. Lena never intended for this to mean anything, but things turn out differently.
This medium length story has a satisfying story arc but ends long before a full novel plot. I enjoyed it.
2) Coffee Shop/Barista AUs
The Name Game - A SuperCorp Coffee Shop AU by DKGwrites
Kara Danvers/Lena Luthor (Supercorp) (f/f)
Completed, 1 chapter, 11k words, 2017
Kara Danvers, an art student in National City, works part-time at her local coffee shop. Every morning while she works there a mysterious woman shows up and orders a cup of coffee but always with a different alias. At her sisters coaxing, will Kara finally get up the nerve to ask this mystery woman her real name? When she does what will happen next, and will fate rear its ugly head?
This is a wonderful, sweet and funny no powers rom-com. I loved the Sanvers & Kara interaction. Alex and Maggie tease her mercilessly but they support Kara lovingly.
Favorite Quote
“Maybe you should ask her,” Alex suggested.
Kara sighed. “That would require talking to her, wouldn’t it?”
“That’s generally part of the whole dating process,” Alex replied.
“Argh.” Turning and falling onto the couch, Kara flopped back. “Not my strong point. Can’t I just be pathetic and long for her?”
C) Other Job AUs
1) The Ice Skating AU
these feelings i can't fight by Jazzfordshire ; @jazzfordshire
Kara Danvers/Lena Luthor (Supercorp) (f/f)
Completed, 3 chapter, 28k words, 2018
Mature
Kara only gets better with each practice session, and slowly Lena comes to accept two things. One, Kara is an infinitely better fit as a partner than James ever was; and two, she’s hopelessly attracted to her.
OR
When James gets injured, Lena needs a new ice dancing partner if she wants a chance to qualify for the Olympics. Kara Danvers offers her services, and Lena is thrown headfirst into a gay panic.
I watched a little bit of figure skating when I was younger, but I don’t have a clue about it - and this does not matter at all to enjoy this story.
Why is this such so brilliant, perfect AU?
Everything is different, but the core dynamic and characters are intact. In fact, Kara and Lena are spot on. And so are all supporting characters: Alex, Sam, James, J'onn, even Winn have roles that are true to their characters and fit nicely into this world.
The love story is powerful and beautiful. There is a perfect setup and just the right backstory to create a brilliant but troubled and lonely Lena. The right amount of tension with her mother. The perfectly balanced obstacles to create the Romeo and Juliet dynamic that is in the heart of so many Supercorp love stories in a universe without Supergirl/superpowers.
And finally, there is a perfect balance of romance and angst that makes the conclusion even sweeter.
This is a brilliant and very well written fic that I adore. Jazzfordshire is a fantastic author and I think this story is a masterpiece.
Favorite Quote
There are a hundred little things she misses about Lena. She misses her scrunchy smile and the high, surprisingly girly sound of her laugh, which she always tries to hide with a hand over her face. The prominent beauty mark in the middle of her throat, the one that practically calls out for Kara to kiss it. She misses the way she runs her teeth gently over the edges of her fingertips when she’s nervous without biting down, as if she’s trained herself to stop chewing her nails but finds the memory of it comforting. How she somehow manages to always smell good, even after four straight hours of exercise.
2) The Cuddler Fic
hold me, my dear (and don't let go) by potstickermaster
Kara Danvers/Lena Luthor (Supercorp) (f/f)
Completed, 17 chapters, 119k words, 2017-2019
Service provider/client to friends to lovers
“So… How is this done?” She asks seriously, to which she replies, quite simply, “We get on the bed and we cuddle."
Lena Luthor is the last person to admit she's touch-starved, but after one hour of service from Kara Danvers, professional cuddler, she finds herself craving it.
Apart from no powers this AU is relatively close to canon: Lena is the CEO of L-Corp and Kara is a professional cuddler (and in her day job she is a junior reporter at CatCo).
This is Lena centric fic, told purely from her POV. It covers a range of popular and important SuperCorp themes:
Kara has a cute pet (her puppy Krypto). Lena's difficult relationship with her mother Lilian (who is not evil in this fic) and their work to salvaging their relationship. Glimpses of a past Lena/Jack relationship. Lena as CEO and scientist. Her loneliness.
Lena has exactly one (1) sassy friend, and in this story it is Veronica. While she only has a small part and is crass and a bit of an asshole, I loved Veronica and her friendship with Lena. And especially her comment in the quite intense sparring scene: “Please don’t fuck on my ring …”
We see Lena slowly falling in Love with Kara, at first without realizing it. And her uncertainties and fears.
This wonderful and beautifully written fic is one of my favorite stories.
Favorite Quote
Lena chuckles again. “... but I didn't expect you , is all.” She gestures for Kara to sit down. The blonde doesn't take the offer though, only continues to speak.
“Ah, right. Ta-dah,” the blonde makes jazz hands. “My day job—junior reporter at CatCo. Can I just say that it’s really nice to see you outside the bedroom?”
She laughs, then halts completely and she frowns. “Okay, that- that sounds wrong. I just mean it’s good to—” She flails her hands and laughs again, the sound strained this time. “It’s good to see you, is all." Lena is unable to hold back an amused smirk as she replies.
It isn’t odd why meeting someone new makes her nervous. It’s not the first time she felt such trepidation either. She has grown hesitant meeting anyone that isn’t with the facade of business; she hasn’t done so for a long time. Kara had been different—she had been introduced to Lena’s life at the pretense of some service, and the offer of friendship had been after the fact. The idea of meeting someone, Kara’s sister no less, is something that she thinks she can handle, hypothetically, but it doesn’t mean she wanted to do it.
D) Fluffy/Happy No Powers AUs
1) The fake dating AU in which Lena rescues Kara from Mike
As luck would have it by spacemanearthgirl ; @spaceman-earthgirl
Kara Danvers/Lena Luthor (Supercorp) (f/f)
Completed, 7 chapter, 30k words, 2017
Who knew that bumping into a stranger in a bar could turn into this?
Or Kara meets Lena at a bar then Lena pretends to be her girlfriend to get rid of Mike.
This no powers AU is pretty close to canon: Lena is the CEO of L-Corp, Kara is a reporter.
Technically this is a fake dating AU, but only the first chapter: although they just met in the bar for the first time, Lena helps Kara to get rid of Mike/Mon-el by pretending to be Kara's girlfriend.
No drama, no action, no angst. Just romance and fluff. I really loved their first date. A wonderful and very well written story.
2) The sweet AU in which the Luthors are not evil
Jar of Happiness by Cloud_Lightning
Kara Danvers/Lena Luthor (Supercorp) (f/f)
Completed, 1 chapter, 6k words, 2016
No powers, Luthers are not evil AU
It was just a joke from Lex when he told his sister that maybe she really should start to put a dollar in a jar every time people told or ask her whether she and Kara were in a relationship. Plus Lillian really wanted to win the betting pool. Lionel promised to not make another bet. And Lena just wanted to fill the jar with a piece of paper containing the details of her happiness.
Kara and Lena become best friends and Lena is afraid to ask Kara if she too feels more than friendship for her. The jar of happiness is a nice idea and done well.
This is a cute and sweet story that I enjoyed.
3) The College AU in which Kara is a French exchange student
Of Charcoal Lines and Accents by IHaveTheWrongGlass
Kara Danvers/Lena Luthor (Supercorp) (f/f)
Completed, 1 chapter, 32k words, 2018
Explicit
Introvert animation student Lena is left to take care of the the new French exchange student. Abandoned by her family who've decided to go on holiday, how will Lena survive trying to take care of a flirty, bubbily blonde?
It's only 6 months, what could go wrong?
In most SuperCorp AUs in this collection some core aspects of Kara's and Lena's life stay unchanged or are only slightly changed:
Kara being a reporter, having lost her parents as a teenager or suffered a big tragedy in her childhood; Lana being rich / a CEO, has a problematic relationship with her family, her brother committed crimes. This story, however, has more differences different, it actually reminds me a bit of Korrasami (modern day) AUs that I have read.
Lena's family is not evil but absent for most of the fic. As a college student without a tragic upbringing, Lena feels very close to her character in the show.
Kara is enthusiastic, likable and a bit strange, her backstory however is very far away from Canon and she is much flirtier than on the show. As the story is told exclusively from Lena's POV we don't get to know French!Kara that well.
I liked this light and angst free story.
Favorite Quote
Kara, in all her smug Frenchness, looked Lena right in the eyes as she paid for not only a bullet vibrator but also a small dildo. It only got worse because Lena was under the impression that both were for Kara, but oh how wrong she was. Nup. Because as soon as Kara paid for it, she linked their arms and pulled Lena out of the shop. It was only once they were walking down the path that Kara, in her fucking beautiful accent, bent to whisper in a bright red ear.
“I bought the phallus for you, mon chéri. It’ll help with the stress.”
4) The College AU in which Lena models for Kara’s art class
I'll be your muse by heryellowcup
Kara Danvers/Lena Luthor (Supercorp) (f/f)
Completed, 1 chapter, 13k words, 2018
She’s sitting on a simple chair, stark naked, and Kara forgets how to breathe, just for a second. Maybe more than that, perhaps a few too many. She vaguely remembers their prof telling them about a model, but he has clearly left out some very important details. Like the fact that she’s an act model, or the fact that she’s incredibly stunning in a way that makes Kara’s heart stop momentarily, then speed up immensely right after.
Or, Kara is an art student in College/University and Lena is the stunning act model she immediately falls for
There is not that much story above what is stated in the author's blurb. Told exclusively from Kara's point of view, this story very much focuses on the here and now: Kara is completely fascinated by Lena and starts crushing on her as soon as she sees her for the first time.
I loved how Kara is flustered constantly and gets teased mercilessly by her sister Alex and her best friend Sam.
Funny, fluffy, sweet, no angst: this is a beautifully and well written story that I enjoyed a lot.
Favorite Quote
If there’s one thing Kara can’t deal with, it’s compliments. Another one being pretty women, meaning that she’s literally turned into a puddle of incomprehensible stuttering at this point, unable to find the words she’s looking for, unable to act like a normal human being around Lena. She’s almost surprised Lena’s still there with her, still talking to her.
5) The one in which Kara and Lena are neighbors
What if I asked you to stay? by heryellowcup
Kara Danvers/Lena Luthor (Supercorp) (f/f)
Completed, 1 chapter, 17k words, 2019
Mature
Neighbors to friends to lovers
She forces the words out of her mouth before she can think of the certain humiliation that will come with her question. They don’t know each other, the encounters they’ve assembled together are countable on two hands, the times they’ve actually talked to each other on one. It’s foolish to even entertain the thought, foolish to think of Mike’s priceless face when he hears about this, hears about Kara saying yes - because she most certainly won’t.
“You could stay with me, if you wanted to.”
Or, Lena invites her charming neighbour (that she totally does not have a crush on), Kara, to live with her while her apartment's being fixed. Lots of mutual pining and some smut ensues, but it's mostly just them being adorable.
This novella length no powers AU is told from Lena's POV (nice character study).
There is no substantial amount of angst. The story is funny, romantic and very well written. I loved it.
Favorite Quote
Leaning back against the wall, Mike looks at Lena and embarrasses her further. “The infamous U-Haul, huh?”
Lena feels her cheeks turn red and her heart speed up while Kara reduces her own reaction to nothing but furrowed eyebrows. She notes how flustered Lena is, she has to, but in the end all she does is tilt her head and regard Mike with a curious look. “What?”
The way Lena’s stomach sinks is more humiliating than the situation itself. The joke is lost on Kara, which can only mean that clearly she is not gay.
This rec was cross posted to Pillowfort, tumblr and my WordPress blog.
In this SuperCorp (Supergirl) Femslash Fanfiction Recommendation, I have collected 21 excellent Kara Danvers/Lena Luthor Alternate Universe (AU) stories.
Supercorp AU Fic Recs Part 2 - Hope and Despair: of Lighter and Darker Worlds
In all of the included stories Kara is Kryptonian, but she is not always Supergirl. I will collect no-power AUs in a separate post. However, what I have included as AUs are either stories that change a basic premise of the show or diverge strongly from canon.
None of the stories is primarily driven by an action or villain/alien of the week plot, in most this is not even touched at all.
This post and all of the stories were written before season 4 started airing. Most Stories were written before or are (mostly) ignoring Season 3.
Overview of the 21 Kara / Lena stories
Detailed recs and links after the cut. My favorites are marked with *
A) Stories in which Kara is Kryptonian but not Supergirl / Stories without Supergirl
Cooking class with Kara Danvers * by ramonaflow: The One in Which Lena Learns to Cook and to Love
You don't get me * by shes_cured: The College Roommates AU
A Ribbon at a Time * by abcooper: The One in Which Kara Had Been Hiding from Cadmus for Years When She Meets Lena
B) Fluffy/Happy Close to Canon AUs
Something Borrowed (*) by janewithawhy: The Three Weddings and a Supergirl Reveal AU
Swipe Right for a Super by eluigih: The Tinder AU
Charity by cautiouslyoptimistic: The One in Which Lena and Kara Meet Doing Charity Work in a Soup Kitchen
In Plain Sight by MsSirEy, sten06: The One with the Quickest Supergirl Reveal Ever
C) Angstier / Angsty AUs
And I'm waiting for the sun by ifyouresure: The One in Which Kara Fears That She Has Ruined the Danvers’ Lives
Lifestyle Choice by kellsbells: The Ultimate Mon-el Hating Fic
D) Fake Dating / Fake Relationships
I'm with you no matter what * by spacemanearthgirl: The Ultimate Fake Marriage / Witness Protection AU
A fiancée for Christmas by kellsbells: The Fake Dating AU with a Dash of Amnesia
E) Unconventional Families
Listen closely and the stars will sing * by celaenos: The One in Which Instead of Mon-El a Small Girl Came to Earth in the Pod
The Fifth Wall * by Black_Tea_and_Bones: The One about Wishes Coming True, with a Dash of Groundhog Day
F) AUs in Which Lena Is Tempted by the Dark Side
Lena Luthor, Evil Overlord by Rhino (RhinoMouse): The Evil Overlord List AU
The Birth of Venus by lostariels: The One in Which Lena Is an Art Thief
Real by cautiouslyoptimistic: The one in which originally Lena is willing to help Lex and Lilian
G) Stories in Which One of Them Dies (Most have a Happy Ending)
Lena dies on a Wednesday * by karalovesallthegirls: The Brilliant Fic in Which Lena Dies - a Lot.
Destruction (sometimes means rebirth) by BloodInTheFields: The One in Which Lena Does Not Actually Die (but Has Powers)
I Blame Myself by Chazene: The Really Sad Reverse Black Mercy Fic in Which Kara Grieves for Lena
Fallen Hero by Chazene: The really sad fic (with happy ending) in which Lena grieves for Kara
Remember me, and let the love we have live on * by civilorange: The brilliantly sad fic about love, living and dying (actual death!)
This series includes
Supercorp AU Fic Recs Part 1 - Distorted Realities: of Time Travel, Amnesia and Black Mercies [tumblr] [WP]
Supercorp AU Fic Recs Part 2 - Hope and Despair: of Lighter and Darker Worlds [tumblr] [WP]
Supercorp AU Fic Recs Part 3 - Complicated Realities: Weddings, One Night Stands and Friends with Benefits [tumblr] [WP]
Supercorp AU Fic Recs Part 4 - Different Realities: Actors, Baristas and Other No Powers AUs [tumblr] [WordP]
A) Stories in which Kara is Kryptonian but not Supergirl / Stories without Supergirl
1. The One in Which Lena Learns to Cook and to Love
Cooking class with Kara Danvers by ramonaflow
Setting: Supergirl TV 2015 (DCU), AU (Alternate Universe)
Relationship: Kara Danvers/Lena Luthor (Supercorp) (f/f)
1 Chapter, 17k words (completed)
Published: 2017
Lena takes a cooking class and gets more than she bargained for.
After being nagged by Jess, Lena (who is the CEO of L-Corp) enrolls for a cooking class. The instructor is a joyful, slightly clumsy and very cute young woman - Kara Danvers, and thus Lena meets Kara before she becomes Supergirl.
This is a perfect Supercorp romcom. Romantic, cute, funny and very well written. I loved it.
There is also a very nice Cat, Lena, Kara lunch scene.
Favorite Quote:
"Sometimes I think you are flirting with me." Kara finally said in a whisper, shoulders slumped, not daring to look at Lena.
Oh. Retreat ?
"What if I am ?"
Kara looked up, lips parted and eyes wide open.
"You are ?"
Lena laughed again.
"Is it so surprising ?"
"I don't know. Maybe. You're the first... the first woman to flirt with me." Kara stuttered, not even losing her pink colors.
Did it mean she was straight ? Lena falling for a straight girl, what a heartbreaking feeling of déjà-vu.
"I doubt that. Maybe you just didn't notice. But do you want me to stop ?"
Kara played with her hands.
"I don't know."
"It's alright. I can leave if you want."
"No ! Don't leave."
2. The College Roommates AU
you don't get me by shes_cured
Setting: Supergirl TV 2015 (DCU), AU (Alternate Universe); difficult roommates to friends to lovers
Relationship: Kara Danvers/Lena Luthor (Supercorp) (f/f)
12 Chapters, 74k words (completed)
Published: 2017
Rating: Mature
Kara had plenty of daydreams about college, but none of them were anything like reality. Lena Luthor is cold and impossible to get along with, but maybe Kara is just what she needs.
-
A college AU where Kara and Lena start out as roommates and their journey through navigating their first four years of independence together.
This is a bumpy ride, especially as Kara thinks she is straight at the beginning of the story, but overall this is not this is not a very angsty story.
That they don't fall in love right away and their journey to each other are some of the aspects I enjoyed the most about this story and I loved their banter.
I liked that while we get some glimpses into Lena's unhappy childhood, this is not a focus of the story.
While this is an AU, in some respects it feels like it could be very close to canon: this story is a very conceivable take how lonely, standoffish and socially awkward Lena was in college before she met Kara (or Sam). Kara is a Kryptonian and has powers, but she is not Supergirl (yet) and this does not play a major part in the story.
This well written story is my favorite collage / university Supercorp fic.
Favorite Quotes:
It suddenly hit her that the version of Lena she’d been seeing, the girl she viewed as uptight and anal, was actually the relaxed version of Lena Luthor. What a terrifying realization that was.
“You can’t seriously be blind enough to miss how they look at you.”
“We’re friends,” she shrugged. “People never like me like that, trust me. ...
“Everyone likes you, don’t kid yourself,” Lena laughed, still blatantly not addressing the invitation Kara was giving out. “You’re preppy, bubbly and pretty - guys eat that shit up.”
Kara looked down with a smile for a moment. “Complimenting me isn’t an answer, but thank you. Don’t do it again, though, it’s weird coming from you.”
“It’s going to take you out of your comfort zone.”
“Kara, that could be anything,” Lena deadpanned. “I have a pretty small comfort zone. I need a better hint than that.”
To that, Kara just smiled, ignoring Lena’s crossed arms and attempts at intimidation. “If I gave it away it wouldn’t be a hint, now would it?”
3. The One in Which Kara Had Been Hiding from Cadmus for Years When She Meets Lena
A Ribbon at a Time by abcooper ; @abcooper
Setting: Supergirl TV 2015 (DCU), AU (Alternate Universe)
Relationship: Kara Danvers/Lena Luthor (Supercorp) (f/f)
5 Chapters, 28k words (completed) Enemies to lovers (sort of), Kara is an alien refugee
Published: 2017
Rating: Mature
After Lex Luthor defeated Superman, after the courts declared him innocent, after CADMUS rose to power, 16 year old Kara Danvers went into hiding. Five years later, a chance encounter with L-Corp CEO Lena Luthor throws her back into everything she's been running from.
Kara is a refugee. Not enough that she lost Krypton, she is also the sole survivor of her (foster) family - except for Alex, but she has not seen Alex for years.
There is a satisfying ending when the story has been told just enough. There are hints what will happen next, and the story could have been much longer, but it ends in a satisfying place to feel enough, to feel complete.
What I loved about this story is that despite the very bleak premise and sad moments, it can also be very funny - with a dry humor that I really enjoyed, and it can be very sad.
This story is a great AU, brilliant and very well written. I loved it.
Favorite Quotes:
She gets the job, she finds out a few days later, but she’s pretty sure her amazing interview skills have nothing to do with it. They give it to her because her last manager wrote her a reference letter in which he described her as, “ridiculously strong - you can send her to deliver cement bricks and she’ll just hoist them onto her shoulder and go,” and because when they asked if she was willing to use her own car for deliveries she said yes.
Joke’s on them. Kara does own - and currently live in - a car, but it’s not what she’s planning on using for deliveries.
It slowly dawns on Kara that maybe she hadn’t just been blowing Craig’s question off with a joke earlier, that she might have stumbled across the right answer to it. It’s becoming clear that Lena didn’t invite her into a trap - she might actually have invited Kara back into her office just to show off her ass.
Well. That’s unexpected.
B) Fluffy/Happy Close to Canon AUs
1. The Three Weddings and a Supergirl Reveal AU
Something Borrowed by janewithawhy ; @janewithawhy
Setting: Supergirl TV 2015 (DCU), AU (Alternate Universe)
Relationship: Kara Danvers/Lena Luthor (Supercorp) (f/f)
3 Chapters, 50k words (completed)
Published: 2017-2018
Something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue. Three weddings and the two women who attend them.
Kara attends two weddings with Lena and one she attends as Supergirl. I loved the scene in which Lena rescued Supergirl from dancing with an obnoxious drunk guy. We also get to see some a glace into Kara's time at middle school and Lena's time in university
I liked how Kara and Lena dance around the SG reveal for two weddings and then this culminated in one of my favorite - maybe my favorite Supergirl reveal scenes. (I did not include it in the favorite quotes below, because I do not want to spoil it).
A very well written story. Domestic and fluffy, with some very funny moments
Favorite Quotes
“Auntie Joannie says you’ve met Supergirl,” Carla said, ignoring Kara in favor of Lena. “Is that true?”
“Yep,” Lena answered, popping the syllable a little. She needed Kara to stop fidgeting, except that it was… hilarious. Supergirl’s Identity Outed by 9-Year-Old Flower Girl. Lena had no plans on seeing that headline in the paper anytime soon.
“Is she tall? She looks tall on TV. Is she nice?” Carla sat up, focusing intently on Lena.
Lena chuckled, almost too amused by the situation. She put a finger to her lip, thinking in that exaggerated way people do while talking to children. Kara was wringing the tablecloth between her hands and Lena was almost sure she heard the linen rip.
“Well, we shared a glass of wine and I just found out Kara is Supergirl; and it’s only half past 2.” Lena quipped.
Eliza’s eyes went wide and she put a hand to her chest, clutching slightly.
“Kara is Supergirl?!” Eliza asked, incredulous and breathless, bracing herself against the countertop.
“Oh shit.” Lena felt her face heat up immediately and then Kara was bursting with laughter and Eliza’s face returned to a small, knowing smile, and Lena knew that she’d been had.
“Have you been sitting here waiting to make that joke?” Kara asked, halfway to crying from laughing so hard.
“Only a little,” Eliza said.
2. The Tinder AU
Swipe Right for a Super by eluigih ; @cheddarlight
Setting: Supergirl TV 2015 (DCU), AU (Alternate Universe)
Relationship: Kara Danvers/Lena Luthor (Supercorp) (f/f)
5 Chapters, 13k words (completed)
Published: 2017
Lena Luthor matches with Supergirl on tinder and she’s convinced that she’s being catfished.
Lena decides to try tinder - just to relax. For fun...
Wonderful and hilariously bad Super pickup lines. Sweet and funny. Very well written. I enjoyed this story a lot.
Favorite Quote
She shudders when she stumbles across her secretary’s profile, swiping left as fast as humanly possible. As much as she considers Jess a valuable employee, perhaps the most loyal, she just can’t bring herself to go there. She needs someone forgettable, she needs a face she’s not going to see every morning as she walks to her office and Jess definitely doesn't fit the bill.
3. The One in Which Lena and Kara Meet Doing Charity Work in a Soup Kitchen
Charity by cautiouslyoptimistic ; @forlornlyoptimistic (deleted old link)
Charity by cautiouslyoptimistic (new link, reposted)
Setting: Supergirl TV 2015 (DCU), AU (Alternate Universe)
Relationship: Kara Danvers/Lena Luthor (Supercorp) (f/f)
1 Chapters, 6k words (completed)
Published: 2017
for someone so skeptical of others, lena can't seem to shake off the inconvenient way kara makes her feel
or, lena finds her trust issues just don't extend to kara
A great, sweet and fluffy fic. Not very Supergirl centric.
4. The One with the Quickest Supergirl Reveal Ever
In Plain Sight by MsSirEy, sten06 ; @mssirey @stennnn06
Setting: Supergirl TV 2015 (DCU), AU (Alternate Universe)
Relationship: Kara Danvers/Lena Luthor (Supercorp) (f/f)
1 Chapters, 10k words (completed)
Published: 2017
What happens when Supergirl inadvertently blurts out her real name when first meeting the sister of Earth's most notorious alien hater? Fluff, friendship and deeper feelings, of course.
One of the least angsty Supergirl reveals. A well written, lovely and sweet story. I liked it a lot.
Favorite Quote
“Oh for Rao’s sake, Kara! What are we doing?” Lena exclaimed, her frustration bubbling to the surface before she could process it. Kara froze, her eyes wide, before a huge telling smile broke across her face.
“I….what did you just say?” Kara asked with a bemused expression.
“What are we doing?” Lena snapped, eyes flashing in a panic, desperate not to have to repeat herself. She didn’t think she had the words to explain this beyond vague intentions.
“No...I thought I heard…” Kara raised her eyebrows curiously. “Did you just say Rao?”
“Oh…” Lena bit her lip and paused. “Yeah, I guess I…. did…” She felt the blush creep along her cheeks as she processed what she had done. It was just another way Kara had crept into her life and made herself at home, and Lena hadn’t even noticed. She stifled a grin, before shaking her head. “Anyway, that’s not the point. Kara, seriously, what are we doing?”
C) Angstier / Angsty AUs
1. The one in which Kara fears that she has ruined the Danvers’ lives
And I'm waiting for the sun by ifyouresure ; @ifyouresure
Setting: Supergirl TV 2015 (DCU), AU (Alternate Universe); diverges from canon after 2x08
Relationship: Kara Danvers/Lena Luthor (Supercorp) (f/f)
1 Chapters, 24k words (completed)
Published: 2017
Kara doesn’t tell her about the hologram of Alura, about the spy beacon she keeps hidden in her night stand, perpetually glowing, waiting for the touch of its twin, but she says, “Sometimes, I talk to them. My mother and her sister – my aunt. Just about my day, my job, my friends and family. It’s ...”
“Cathartic,” Lena supplies. Kara was going to say ‘comforting’, but doesn’t correct her. “Sometimes,” Lena whispers, “I talk to Lex.”
(Much later, Kara will think of Lex, still alive, sitting in maximum security, and wonder what Lena meant.)
or
A lot can happen in the space of a year; Kara and Lena know this better than most.
Apart from Kara and Lena moving from friends to lovers this story deals with several heavy themes: in particular loss and grief - and the meaning of family.
Lena is struggling with her, family which she had so desperately wanted to lover her, a brother and Mother who are trying to kill her and the obligation she feels to atone for their sins.
Kara who had already felt abandoned and now is deeply troubled after finding out that her father was responsible for the genocidal Medusa virus. In addition to the loss of her entire planet she feels the weight of being the last Kryptonian.
But most of all the central focus of the story is that Kara fears that she is responsible for ruining the Danver's lives. After she came back from earth one - where she found no Supergirl, no Kara, but a happy Danvers family (with Jeremiah alive) and an Alexandra Danvers who is living a normal and happy life as a doctor - without her - she fears that the Danvers and especially Alex would have been better off without her.
Considering all of these heavy themes, there are pretty undramatic Supergirl and Guardian reveals.
Despite these themes and a Kara who is a bit less of a ball of sunshine as she is portrayed in many other fics, for me this did not feel like an overly angsty fic.
I enjoyed this well written fic.
Favorite Quote
“Lena said you and Maggie are sweet together, by the way,” Kara says. “I guess she could tell.”
Alex hums. “Funny, Maggie said the exact same thing about the two of you.”
Kara splutters incoherently.
“There isn’t a single person in this city whose life I haven’t disrupted simply by existing, by being who I am. Believe me,” and here Kara laughs a little, “believe me, I know. I’ve seen how their lives panned out when I wasn’t there to change them, I’ve seen how happy and fulfilled my foster family, my own sister, are without me.” Kara doesn’t explain how, and Lena doesn’t ask. “And I can only believe Krypton exploded with me on it, or maybe it didn’t. Maybe I’m still there, with my own family. Maybe I’m on Earth, ruining the lives of another.”
“They’re happier, for having you in their lives,” Lena says with conviction, leaning forward. Kara almost smiles.
“Tell me something,” Lena says, and Kara remembers the nightmares she had as a child, how Alex brought her back to Earth every time.
“Shrimp legs freak me out,” Kara says instantly, to a crazed little laugh from Lena. “I wanted to study astronomy once, when I was younger. I haven’t had a real conversation in my own language with another living person in years and, sometimes, I worry that I’ll ...” Kara doesn’t say anything for a time. “I paint portraits of home.”
2. The ultimate Mon-el hating fic
Lifestyle Choice by kellsbells
Setting: Supergirl TV 2015 (DCU), AU (Alternate Universe)
Relationship: Kara Danvers/Lena Luthor (Supercorp) (f/f)
8 Chapters, 34k words (completed)
Published: 2018
Rating: Mature
Warning: Homophobia from a friend, Gaslighting, Emotional Abuse (read the intro and the full tags on AO3)
"I'm sorry, Kara. Are you implying that because I am attracted to women, that I deserve this kind of intrusive attention?" Lena asked, incredulous.
Kara gaped at her for a moment.
"No, but... I mean, you must be used to it, with your lifestyle and all?"
Okay. This conversation was definitely over. Lena squeezed the bridge of her nose between her finger and thumb. Lifestyle?
From nowhere, Kara comes into Lena's office complaining about a magazine article which portrays the two women as a couple. Apparently her recently-returned boyfriend, 'Mike', is incensed at the implication and pushes Kara into talking to Lena about it. This leads to a rift between the two friends until some new information comes to light, changing both of their lives forever.
This is probably the ultimate Mon-El hating fic.
I am not really sure why I enjoyed this story, why I could not put it down. This story deals with a lot of topics and themes that I usually don’t like / enjoy reading about. But I think the way the author managed to achieve this is by stopping at the place, by moving on exactly the right moment. When more would have been too much (for me).
The conflict and rift between Lena and Kara is difficult to swallow, but the author pulls it of. Kara starts losing faith in Mon-el at the moment where it would have been intolerable had she stuck with him longer.
It is well written story. It is angsty and a bit dark, but I did not feel that it was that angsty. But do mind the trigger warnings.
Favorite Quotes
“Could I?” Lena asked, pointing at Kara’s stash of potstickers. She didn’t normally eat this much, but it had been a really long day. Kara handed them over absently, and Lena ate a few before she realised that Kara had just voluntarily given her potstickers. She was eating potstickers that Kara Danvers had given to her.
Kara nodded, head dropping, and then she left. Lena stared at the door for an eternity after Kara left, wondering how she was supposed to handle her own feelings for Kara along with the pain that Kara had caused her personally, and the shit that Mon-El seemed to be pulling. She was worried about Kara, worried about how much Kara could hurt her, and worried that Mon-El was going to completely destroy the sweet, caring person that Kara had always been.
D) Fake Dating / Fake Relationships
1. The Ultimate Fake Marriage / Witness Protection AU
I'm with you no matter what by spacemanearthgirl ; @spaceman-earthgirl
Setting: Supergirl TV 2015 (DCU), AU (Alternate Universe)
Relationship: Kara Danvers/Lena Luthor (Supercorp) (f/f)
14 Chapters, 46k words (completed)
Published: 2018
"Lena’s life is threatened and the DEO urges her to go hide in a small town (in or out of the country) where the name Luthor won’t mean anything, and Kara of course goes with her bc that’s what (superhero) friends are for. So that’s how they end up fake married in a small town and fall in love for real. Or realize they’re already in love?"
Embedded into a few Lex is trying to kill Lena elements (nothing too graphic) this is a very light, fluffy and domestic story. Apart from the Lex pieces not a Supergirl centric fic. Winn arranging their fake identities as a married couple, including the rings.
This fic has everything: Witness protection / protective custody, fake marriage, friends to lovers. And my favorite trope: Kara listening for Lena's heartbeat. Bonus: Lena worrying that Kara might hear her heartbeat spike.
A wonderful, very well written story. Loved it. I especially loved the rings thing
Favorite Quote
Kara is well aware that this look usually works on Lena, it’s kind of embarrassing how easy one look from Kara can make her fold, make her change her mind about what takeout she wants or what movie they’re going to watch, but running is where she draws the line.
“That’s not going to work this time,” Lena says, reaching out and lightly tapping Kara’s cheek with her hand.
She watches Kara deflate in front of her, pout firmly set on her lips in a last ditch attempt at what Alex calls her “kicked puppy” look.
“Go have fun with the kids, I’ll watch you from here.”
Being alone doesn’t help, it only means the extra brain power she was using to look like she was listening to Jess can be used to think about Kara instead.
This is bad, her company is important to her and she’s not going to be able to get any work done until she talks to Kara.
2. The Fake Dating AU with a Dash of Amnesia
A fiancée for Christmas by kellsbells
Setting: Supergirl TV 2015 (DCU), AU (Alternate Universe)
Relationship: Kara Danvers/Lena Luthor (Supercorp) (f/f)
11 Chapters, 44k words (completed)
Published: 2017-2018
Rating: Mature
Alex is, as always, being hounded by Eliza about Kara's life. In particular, her personal life. Alex blurts out a lie on a whim, pretending that Kara is engaged, and begs Kara to go along with the lie. Kara mentions the situation to her very platonic friend Lena Luthor, who offers to step in. Hijinks ensue. A gift for the lovely Ganewhoo.
Fake dating AU with a twist, little bit of unconventional amnesia (they sleep together relatively early - drunk - and Kara cannot remember because alien alcohol).
There is a good bit of background Sanvers, also we see more of Alex than Maggie. Also nice Lena and Eliza bonding.
This is a well written story that I enjoyed. A it but not a lot of angst
Favorite Quotes
“I don’t think Lena is oblivious,” Maggie said, shaking her head. She turned to the side again, rubbing her lower abdomen. “Kara has no idea, but my god, the heart-eyes!”
“I know! Every time they do that staring thing, I get this urge to play spin the bottle or seven minutes in heaven, you know? Like, wake up and smell the gay!” Alex said, snickering.
“I’m proud of you, Danvers,” Maggie said. “You’ve graduated from Lesbian Academy with top points in gaydar and detection of unresolved sexual tension.”
“You know, dear, I think we should bring back the practice of carrying handkerchiefs around. That way, I wouldn’t have to see you drooling like that over my daughter’s admittedly impressive musculature.”
“Oh my god,” Lena said, hiding her face in her scarf. Yes, she was wearing a scarf, and Kara was wearing a tiny two-piece bikini. “You are way too okay with embarrassing me, Eliza.”
E) Unconventional Families
1. The One in Which Instead of Mon-El a Small Girl Came to Earth in the Pod
Listen closely and the stars will sing by celaenos ; @banrions
Setting: Supergirl TV 2015 (DCU), AU (Alternate Universe)
Relationship: Kara Danvers/Lena Luthor (Supercorp) (f/f)
14 Chapters, 119k words (completed)
Published: 2017
Lena casts her mind around for the last time she felt this unmoored, this off-balance, by a woman, and can't come up with anything. Kara Danvers is unlike anybody that Lena has ever met; the sweetest, bubbliest person Lena’s yet to come across, and simultaneously one of the saddest, who is probably lying to everyone that she meets. It’s an impossible contradiction to wrap your head around, and Lena should probably stop hiding in this bathroom and trying.
(Or, Kara and Lena get parent-trapped into a relationship by a goofy little alien.)
As with any AU there is a "what if". What if Mon-El was so many things he was not on the show. An interesting character? A girl? What if instead of Mon-El we got a sweet nine year old girl in Season two?
Thankfully apart from the final showdown that takes some elements from season 2’s final episodes, there is little retelling of the show.
I love how Lena deals with her suspicions that there is something not quite right about Kara and Myka. The interaction / dynamic between Lena / Kara and Myka is wonderfully written, heartwarming and often funny. Their relationship develops so naturally and sweet.
There is a very nice Supergirl reveal and the story has a meaningful and satisfying end. There is nice background Sanvers and Alex plays a relatively big supporting role in this story. She is also written superbly and her interaction with Kara, Lena and Mayka add a lot to the perfection of the story. In fact there are some of my favorite Alex & Lena scenes outside of Alena/AgentCorp fics.
This is a wonderful, long and very well written story that I loved.
The relationship between Kara and Myka and food plays a central part in the story and it is very cute.
The author has already used by favorite quote in the "official" summary (above) but I have one more to share:
“We should have ice cream for breakfast.”
“No,” she laughs, reaching for her phone. “We should not.”
“Kara will say yes if you ask her,” Myka whispers, looking over and realizing that Alex and Maggie are still asleep.
“Kara, is not a good role model to base your relationship with food after,” Lena counters.
2. The One about Wishes Coming True, with a Dash of Groundhog Day
The Fifth Wall by Black_Tea_and_Bones ; @blackteaandbones
Setting: Supergirl TV 2015 (DCU), AU (Alternate Universe)
Relationship: Kara Danvers/Lena Luthor (Supercorp) (f/f)
28 Chapters, 109k words (completed)
Published: 2017-2018
Rating: Mature
Kara goes to bed with Mon-El, and wakes up with Lena Luthor.
But it isn't Kara’s bed, and they’re not in Lena’s apartment, and that is definitely not their baby... Right?
What if your wishes come true? Even wishes you had never spoken, not even admitted to yourself?
What if powers beyond Kara and Lena‘s comprehension had conspired to push them together, to literally marry their fates together. And to throw in a little girl for good measure, a girl that is apparently their daughter.
But all of this can’t be real, or can it?
There is a suspense arc that concludes satisfactory, some canon compliant violence and a bit of angst, but overwhelmingly this is a beautiful love story and a kid fic.
We slowly see Kara and Lena’s relationship developing I loved every minute of it. This is an epic and beautiful story that is very well written.
While Mon-El is mentioned in the author blurb, thankfully he plays practically no role in the story: he has only one or two scenes (in one of which we get a good laugh on his expense).
While there are a few scenes with the Superfriends, this is a very Lena and Kara centric fic.
Favorite Quotes
Lena shrugged. “Well, I may not have much experience with children, but toast and juice are well within my capabilities. Though I have to ask... What are sucks, and why aren’t we having any of them?”
Kara took a minute to catch up. “Oh, socks.” She snorted. “She refused to wear any.”
“Stubborn,” Lena noted with a smirk. “I wonder who she gets that from?”
She was alone.
Any lingering doubts Lena may have had about how little she actually wanted her old life back died a sudden and inevitable death in that moment.
It wasn’t the worst thirty seconds of her life, but it was close.
That was about how long it took her to realize she was overreacting. Nothing had changed. She was still in their bed, in their bedroom, in their apartment. The half-empty glass of water Kara had left on her bedside table last night was still there, and when Lena sat up she saw Kara’s pyjamas hanging over the side of the laundry basket. The only thing missing was Kara herself.
F) AUs in Which Lena Is Tempted by the Dark Side
1. The Evil Overlord List AU
Lena Luthor, Evil Overlord by Rhino (RhinoMouse)
Setting: Supergirl TV 2015 (DCU), AU (Alternate Universe); sort of but not really evil!Lena
Relationship: Kara Danvers/Lena Luthor (Supercorp) (f/f)
10 Chapters, 23k words (completed)
Published: 2017
Warning: read the author’s intro
Somebody has to take out the trash and Lena decides it might as well be her. If the hero's won't do what needs to be done she will, after all she is a Luthor. And if turning to the dark side involves separating Kara from her douche of a boyfriend? Well that's just a happy coincidence. But if she's going to be evil she's going to do it right by following some simple rules. No insane laughter and impractical super weapons for her. No she's going to avoid the pitfalls of lesser villains and she'll do it with style.
This AU is a bit different than most SuperCorp AUs. It features a slightly alternate Lena that is written very believably. Jess is done well and gets a slightly larger role than in most fic.
A well written and funny AU that I enjoyed. It is probably more a comedy than it is a SuperCorp romance story.
Note: If you do not know about the Evil Overlord list, then look here. Highly recommended.
Favorite Quotes
“But Lena’s never cared about her safety and suddenly she does?! And what if she gets hurt!” Kara protested.
Alex held up her hand. “You think Lena might be going evil and your concern is that she might get hurt?” She stared at her sister incredulously.
“Well obviously she could never be properly evil, it’s Lena. But what if she tries to become a megalomaniac like her family?” Kara pointed out. She put her hands on her hips, she needed to protect her friend and they just weren’t getting how serious this was. “Her latest project is laser attachments for sharks!”
2. The One in Which Lena Is an Art Thief
The Birth of Venus by lostariels ; @lostariels
Setting: Supergirl TV 2015 (DCU), AU (Alternate Universe); sort of but not really evil!Lena
Relationship: Kara Danvers/Lena Luthor (Supercorp) (f/f)
3 Chapters, 13k words (completed)
Published: 2017-2018
When Supergirl finds herself in Italy after an earthquake, Kara decides to take a detour to Florence to see the famous painting the 'Birth of Venus', before returning to National City. At the Uffizi Gallery, she catches the eye of another visitor at the gallery, a fellow art lover who's at the gallery for more than just looking.
The next morning the Birth of Venus is reported to have been stolen, and no one knows who took it, until over a year later when Kara finds out why her girlfriend just so happened to be at the gallery that day.
What if Kara (who is Supergirl) falls in love with a Lena who is an art thief?
This is a very interesting take how Kara deals with the fact that her girlfriend is a criminal. Not (really) Evil!Lena, but rather a lover and thief of rare paintings.
With this theme it could have easily been an angsty fic, it is not. It is a well written AU that I enjoyed.
3. The One in Which Originally Lena Is Willing to Help Lex and Lilian
Real by cautiouslyoptimistic ; @forlornlyoptimistic (deleted old link)
real by cautiouslyoptimistic (new link, reposted)
Setting: Supergirl TV 2015 (DCU), AU (Alternate Universe)
Relationship: Kara Danvers/Lena Luthor (Supercorp) (f/f)
1 Chapter, 10k words (completed)
Published: 2017
lex and lillian recruit lena in their plot to end the supers, but lena finds herself more preoccupied with kara's smile than she is with her family's plans
or, lena falls in love with the one person she wasn't supposed to
At first Lena is willing to help Lex and her mother, after all this is how she was raised. Lena's struggle between supporting her families' plan and falling in love with Kara is a different take on SuperCorp but done very believable.
An excellent story that I liked a lot. Very well written from Lena's POV
G) Stories in Which One of Them Dies (Most have a Happy Ending)
1. The Brilliant Fic in Which Lena Dies - a Lot
Lena dies on a wednesday by karalovesallthegirls ; @karalovesallthegirls
Setting: Supergirl TV 2015 (DCU), AU (Alternate Universe), angst with happy ending
Relationship: Kara Danvers/Lena Luthor (Supercorp) (f/f)
1 Chapters, 18k words (completed)
Published: 2018
Rating: Mature
Warning: Graphic Depictions Of Violence, Major Character Death
Lena is trapped in a loop, reliving the day she dies over and over again. She just doesn’t know it.
Yes, there is angst and suffering, but considering that Lena dies many times in this fic it is not super angsty and this is not primarily an angsty fic.
There is a unique blend of angst, drama, romance and humor: The author manages to put all of this together brilliantly and on top of that a somewhat absurd and crazy plot that is consistent and polished.
It somewhat reminds me of Groundhog Day and the brilliant Star Trek: The Next Generation episode Cause and Effect, but with substantially more punch - there is quite a difference form seeing a ship explode and experiencing Lena’s death several times from her own point of view.
Brilliant and beautifully written, fast paced, concise and polished. There is nothing that could be cut away. It’s a full novel plot in less than 20k words. Amazing - one of my favorites.
I knew there would be happy ending, but otherwise I never expected where the plot was going, got surprised again and again.
Favorite Quote
The only word to describe the look Kara gives her at that is ‘devastation’.
“I’ve watched you die a hundred times, Lena,” she whispers.
Lena can practically see the weight of guilt pressing down on her dearest friend.
“Is that why you wanted us to run away?” she asks, instantly struck by the horror at what she might have done before on those other Wednesdays.
2. The One in Which Lena Does Not Actually Die (but Has Powers)
Destruction (sometimes means rebirth) by BloodInTheFields ; @blood-inthefields
Setting: Supergirl TV 2015 (DCU), AU (Alternate Universe); Lena has powers; Angst with happy ending
Relationship: Kara Danvers/Lena Luthor (Supercorp) (f/f)
20 Chapters, 36k words (completed)
Published: 2016-2017
There’s not much that she can do. The heat, she doesn’t feel. She walks through the flames and uses her x-ray vision to spot any survivor, but there’s nothing. Only devastation.
or, in which Kara loses Lena, but does she really?
Lena is presumed dead after a bombing of LCorp tower and Supergirl couldn’t save her.
There are angsty chapters, miserable Kara is done very well and I really felt with her pain and grief. There are some very nice, romantic and fluffy chapters at the end - and also some funny scenes.
I was a bit worried that Lena's abilities were too much and made her overpowered, but the author handled it well. I enjoyed this well written story a lot.
Favorite Quotes (spoiler: Lena is not a shape shifter)
“What the hell is going on? Who is this,” Alex hisses, pointing toward the bedroom door that Kara has closed behind them.
“This is Lena Luthor, Alex. You’ve seen her before,” Kara deadpans, arms crossed against her chest.
Kara, where did you find the shape-shifter? This isn’t healthy for you! I didn’t even know you were into Lena Luthor like that!”
3. The Really Sad Reverse Black Mercy Fic in Which Kara Grieves for Lena
I Blame Myself by Chazene
Setting: Supergirl TV 2015 (DCU), AU (Alternate Universe)
Relationship: Kara Danvers/Lena Luthor (Supercorp) (f/f)
1 Chapters, 5k words (completed)
Published: 2017
Rating: Mature
Warning: fake suicide
Kara goes through trauma like no other.
Kara is grieving for Lena in a kind of reverse black mercy.
This is a very sad and angsty, beautiful and powerful story - with happy ending. A well written short one from Kara's POV.
4. The Really Sad Fic (with Happy Ending) in Which Lena Grieves for Kara
Fallen Hero by Chazene
Setting: Supergirl TV 2015 (DCU), AU (Alternate Universe)
Relationship: Kara Danvers/Lena Luthor (Supercorp) (f/f)
1 Chapter, 13k words (completed)
Published: 2017
Rating: Mature
Warning: Major Character Death
Lena goes through tragedy, one she'd never thought she'd experience.
Lena is grieving and coping with Kara's death.
A sad, well written and angsty story - ultimately with happy ending.
5. The brilliantly sad fic about love, living and dying
remember me, and let the love we have live on by civilorange ; @civilorange
Setting: Supergirl TV 2015 (DCU), AU (Alternate Universe)
Relationship: Kara Danvers/Lena Luthor (Supercorp); background Kara Danvers/Cat Grant (SuperCat) (f/f)
1 Chapter, 9k words (completed)
Published: 2018
Rating: Mature
Warning: Major Character Death
You close your eyes and pretend it’s tomorrow. “Promise me you’ll be okay?”
“Aren’t I always?” There's nothing glad about it, nothing happy.
// or: Kara Danvers and Lena Luthor through the years.
This fic is basically Lena’s life in 9 k words and it will probably make you cry - It is amazing that one of the shortest stories has the broadest scope. This story also deals with the fact that as Kryptonians live very long, Kara will outlive her lovers.
There is SuperCat in this fic, but as the fic is told exclusively from Lena's POV we do not really see it.
There are two things that I usually not that fond of in stories: second person narrator and Major Character Death. But this is a brilliant, very well written story that won me over. Highly recommended.
Favorite Quotes
“Telling you I’m Supergirl isn’t—it isn’t just telling you I’m Supergirl. It’s telling you I’m Kara Zor El, it’s telling you I’m the last of my kind because my cousin doesn’t even remember Krypton, it’s—it’s—I liked being just-Kara around you.” She’s crying—but not—they’re in the lashes of her blue, blue eyes and you don’t know how you never noticed that they’re the exact same shade. Blue, on blue, on blue—with a little bit of stardust in the black of her pupil.
You’re angry, you are, but you like being just-Lena around her, too. You like pretending that you don’t go see your brother every Thursday, you don’t like reading every death threat sent to you in the mail—you don’t like being an idea before you’re a person. You’re angry, but you understand.
“You don’t beat time, sweetheart,” you tried, damn did you try, but there was only so much your human body would allow. “But we had a run, didn’t we?”
Ninety years together in one way or another—forty more than you probably should have had, but you are Lena Luthor after all. Reality was fifty percent what you made it. Ninety years, sixteen planets, three universes, and a pretty epic story—if you do say so yourself.
You have reached the end of part 2, but Lena and Kara will return in Supercorp AU Fic Recs Part 3 - Different Realities: of No Powers, One Night Stands and Friends with Benefits
(I will include a link once it is published).
updated links in April 2020 for re-uploaded fics by cautiouslyoptimistic
If you liked this, you might enjoy more of my SuperCorp / Supergirl femslash fanfic recs:
9 Great and Long Kara / Lena Fics - SuperCorp
10 More Great and Long Kara / Lena Fics (SuperCorp)
Supercorp AU Fic Recs Part 1 - Distorted Realities: of Time Travel, Amnesia and Black Mercies
Or all of them
or my fic recs only sideblog @femslashhistorianficrecs
An Archive of Our Own, a project of the Organization for Transformative Works
Tomorrow by heryellowcup
Lena closes her eyes and lets out a long breath. Forcefully she gulps down any mean spirited words, in favor of her own sanity. Her hands are still trembling. She nods. “Okay.”
“And tomorrow - tomorrow you can go back to hating me, if you want.”
Lena intends to.
Or, After finding out that Kara is Supergirl, Lena wants to hate her. She really does. But Kara is also the only one Lena's got left, and a late night meeting turns from spending comfort to desperate love-making.
SuperCorp (Kara/Lena)
Mature, smut, angst, hurt/comfort
Additional Warnings/notes: PWP, g!p, Girl Penis Kara Danvers
One-shot, more than 3k words, 2019
This is a very intense, angsty and emotional short story with a dash of smut at the end. Told from Lena's POV. I enjoyed it a lot.
This was cross-posted on tumblr and my WordPress blog
An Archive of Our Own, a project of the Organization for Transformative Works
Short f/f fic rec (Supergirl)
Reasons Why (It's Inevitable) by delightfully_moody ; @moodily-delightful
How long can Lena stay mad at Kara for keeping Supergirl a secret? (Spoiler alert: Not very long.)
Or
A one-shot where Lena tries to make a list of reasons why she should forgive Kara and ends up with a list of reasons why she loves her.
SuperCorp (Kara Danvers/Lena Luthor)
one shot, 5k words, 2018
romance, a bit of angst, friends to lovers
Canon divergent; Supergirl reveal, that Lena does initially not take that well
This is a wonderful and very well written story, told from Lena’s POV. I loved Lena's list and that she keeps renaming it.
For Supergirl reveal fic in which Lena is mad at Kara, this is a pretty much angst free fic.
There is a very nice Alex & Lena scene which is also my favorite quote
So maybe Lena should forgive Kara.
And if Alex has any say in the matter, she should forgive her as soon as possible.
“Seriously, Lena, she’s been like a mopey puppy. I totally understand why you’re upset. You have every right to be. But she did what she needed to do. It doesn’t change the fact that she’s your best friend. You guys need each other.”
If you liked this, you might enjoy
more of my Short f/f fic rec
my long f/f fic recs, such as Supercorp AU Fic Recs Part 1 - Distorted Realities: of Time Travel, Amnesia and Black Mercies
or my fic recs only sideblog @femslashhistorianficrecs
An Archive of Our Own, a project of the Organization for Transformative Works
Short f/f fic rec (Supergirl)
time is forever frozen still by intolauren
“Lena, why do you have an entire album on your phone full of pictures of me?”
SuperCorp (Kara Danvers/Lena Luthor)
one shot, less than 3k words, 2018
Romance, fluff, friends to lovers, humor
Kara and Lena finally confess their love for each other.
This is a well written, fluffy short fic. Loved it.
Favorite quote
“No. Don’t. Don’t you do that. Don’t you do that thing with your eyes that you always do that makes me tell you things. It’s not fair. Lena, stop. I’m serious,” Kara babbles, covering her face with her hands.
Lena wants to laugh, because Kara’s adorable, but if she laughs then Kara wins and Lena hates losing.
Or that’s what she tells herself anyway. When it comes to Kara, the reality is very different.
Kara’s still hiding behind her hands and Lena figures it can’t hurt to allow herself a smile.
So she smiles. At Kara. Because of Kara.
If you liked this, you might enjoy
more of my Short f/f fic rec
my long f/f fic recs, such as Supercorp AU Fic Recs Part 1 - Distorted Realities: of Time Travel, Amnesia and Black Mercies
or my fic recs only sideblog @femslashhistorianficrecs
An Archive of Our Own, a project of the Organization for Transformative Works
Short f/f fic rec (Supergirl)
They’re all banging, babe by heryellowcup
It’s a little embarrassing when Kara accidentally takes Sam’s hand instead of her girlfriend’s. But perhaps it’s the push they all needed.
Or, Supereigncorp fluff.
AU-ish: No Reign, powers and Supergirl are not mentioned.
Lena and Kara are together. This is a short story how they slowly and without thinking too much get together with Sam.
The scene when Alex and Maggie walk in on Sam and Lena kissing is hilarious.
A well written, short, romantic SuperReignCorp story that I liked a lot.
Favorite quote
“And so Kara can’t even begin to explain how full her heart feels (close to bursting) when she doesn’t see hurt in Lena’s eyes, but love instead. And she almost can’t believe when all Lena does is whisper a soft “it’s okay” as understanding seems to wash over her face and she grabs Kara’s hand, too. It’s soft and warm and they all smile at each other, then, silently agree to enjoy whatever is happening without thinking too much, to just let themselves be.“
If you liked this, you might enjoy
more of my Short f/f fic rec
my long f/f fic recs, such as Know love’s exact reason – A SuperReignCorp Fic Rec
or my fic recs only sideblog @femslashhistorianficrecs
An Archive of Our Own, a project of the Organization for Transformative Works
Short f/f fic rec (Supergirl)
of piercings and x-ray vision by Jazzfordshire ;@jazzfordshire
“What is that?” She asks, her train of thought temporarily derailed.
“What?”
“That noise. It’s like – a clicking –“
“Not all of us have super hearing, Kara,” Lena jokes, smiling, and that’s when Kara sees it. A flash of metal – something round, in Lena’s mouth. Like she’s sucking on something, or like –
Like it’s pierced.
OR
Kara is pretty sure she knows everything there is to know about Lena Luthor – powerful, intelligent, kind, soft, professional. That is, until she sees the tattoo on her wrist, and little by little everything she thought she knew starts to shift.
SuperCorp (Kara Danvers/Lena Luthor)
1 chapter, nearly 10k words, 2018
Explicit
Smut, humor, fun, crack, piercings, tattoos
This is a fantastic smut fic - but this is not the (only) reason I wrote this rec.
It is also a very well written and very funny story. The ways Kara (almost) loses it and has a lot of trouble controlling her powers are hilarious, as she - step by step - discovers Lena's piercings and tattoos.
I also liked that Lena already knows that Kara is Supergirl and that Kara helps Lena with an experiment at the beginning of the fic.
Favorite quote
“I know.” Lena says, her voice raspy. “You broke my door, with your glasses off. And you stared at my ass even more than usual. I put the pieces together.”
If you liked this, you might enjoy
more of my Short f/f fic rec
my long f/f fic recs, such as 10 More Great and Long Kara / Lena Fics
or my fic recs only sideblog @femslashhistorianficrecs
