Hi, Frustrated.
I have a hard time using the database too, which is part of my motivation for working on the
FoLCdom Wiki (still in its infancy). Hopefully, when it's gotten enough love, it'll be a great, searchable companion to the archive. (Volunteers needed and welcome,
see this thread for slightly more detail )
[/Plugging]
As for fanfic recs,
Stony Ways by
Bakasi seems to fit the bill pretty well.