I think you're on to something here about AUs, which is the same for me: since the setting has been changed (sort of like altering the background on a stage), the characterization has to be that much stronger. I **need** Bodie and Doyle, since they've now been shot into outer space or dumped in Arabia.

Having said that, Master of the Revels just didn't work for me. Perhaps if I had seen the film with Shaw in it, that would make a difference, but I didn't get much Bodie and Doyle characterization from the story. Ah well. I'm glad you enjoyed it, though.

Maybe you could tell me what precisely you enjoyed about MotR? Was it the strong story, the plot in particular?