There's also 'The Unlikely Bond'. In this fanfic, the OC is a healer who ends up getting involved with Severus. It shows their relationship growing from distrust to a deep connection, and it's full of interesting magical elements and character - driven plotlines.
Characterization is key. The OC should be well - developed, with her own backstory, motives, and personality. And Snape's character must be true to the original. For example, his loyalty to Dumbledore and his complex past should be reflected. Also, the relationship between them should develop gradually, not rushed. It could start from mutual distrust and slowly turn into something deeper like friendship or love.
Well, a story could focus on how Severus, who is usually so reserved, becomes extremely protective during the OC's pregnancy. He might start to show a softer side that no one has seen before. And the OC could be in a situation where she has to teach Severus about the joys and fears of impending fatherhood. They could also face external threats to the pregnancy, like a dark curse that they have to work together to break.
One popular Severus x OC fanfiction is 'A Different Sort of Magic'. It beautifully weaves a story where the OC, a talented witch from a far - off land, meets Severus. Their relationship develops in a very organic way, with lots of interactions in the Hogwarts corridors and in the Potions classroom. Another great one is 'The Unlikely Bond'. Here, the OC has a unique ability that catches Severus' attention, and they gradually form a deep connection.
There is a story called 'A Severus Reborn' in the 'abused Severus fanfiction' genre. In this, after enduring abuse, Severus discovers new strength within himself and uses it to change his fate. Also, 'Hidden Pain' is quite popular, as it focuses on the psychological impact of the abuse on Severus.
One great Hermione and Severus fanfiction is 'A Different Sort of Magic'. It explores a unique relationship between them where they collaborate on a complex magical research. Another is 'The Unlikely Bond' which delves into how their different personalities gradually find common ground.
Well, 'Secret Encounters' is a Severus and Harry lemon fanfiction that many fans seem to like. It has a good balance between the emotional connection and the more adult - themed interactions. But be aware that this kind of fanfiction isn't for everyone as it can be quite explicit in nature. There's also 'Forbidden Love's Flame' which takes their relationship to a new level of passion.
One popular one is 'A Dark Bond'. It delves into the complex relationship between Severus and Hermione in a vampire - themed world. The story is filled with mystery and tension as they navigate their new, dangerous situation together.
One great Severus Snape OC fanfiction is 'The Snape Chronicles'. It focuses on a new student OC who becomes an apprentice of Snape in potions. The story delves deep into the Hogwarts world, showing how the OC learns from Snape and their relationship grows in a platonic and educational way. There's also 'Snape and the Enchanted Apprentice' which has an OC with a special gift for magic that Snape helps her to control and develop, without any inappropriate elements.
Archive of Our Own (AO3) also has a wide range of 'Severus Snape x OC' fanfictions. You can filter out the more explicit ones and look for those that delve into the emotional and psychological aspects of their relationship. Some might depict how an OC could have influenced Snape's decisions or how they interacted in the Slytherin common room.
One common theme is redemption. Often, Severus's complex past is explored, and the OC plays a role in his journey towards redemption. For example, the OC might show him kindness or understanding that he hasn't received before.