there is a lot of excellent writing in the darkfic category. i know what you mean about finding them fascinating even though they're not your favorite. i read plenty myself but found the amanuensis one just a bit too harsh, maybe. she's fearless.

dementor delta's story about harry and the snake is one i'll probably continue to reread once in a while, just because it's so lovable. a good writer can make me read things that, if i stopped to think about it, i wouldn't be inclined to try. (wanking by snake!)