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 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.
One great fanfiction could be 'Dawn's Discovery'. In it, Dawn finds herself in a dangerous situation and Spike is the only one who can protect her. It delves into their unique relationship, with Dawn seeing Spike in a new light and Spike realizing his role as her protector.
One great place to start looking for Buffy the Vampire Slayer Spike and Dawn fanfiction is Archive of Our Own (AO3). There are numerous stories there. For example, 'The Unlikely Bond' is a fanfic that delves into how Spike and Dawn form an unexpected friendship after a series of supernatural events in Sunnydale. It's really interesting as it shows their characters evolving in new ways outside of the main show plot.
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 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.
I'm not sure about the absolute best, but some popular ones might be those who have a deep understanding of the Buffy universe. They know all the characters well, especially Dawn, and can write her in - character. For example, an author who has been following the show since it started and has a passion for Dawn's character arc.
There might be a fanfiction where Dawn travels back in time and meets a younger version of Buffy. This could lead to some really interesting interactions and changes in the timeline.