This was really wonderful. The mystery was interesting and having Severus be an alcoholic was interesting. It seemed like it was very fitting for a non-magical Severus to have dealt with his pain in this way.
The only thing that felt wrong to me--and I may be completely wrong because I was born in the 60's but I don't remember them--the homosexuality felt very present day to me, very "out" and ok. I would have thought it would be a much more taboo subject back then and much more of a secret.
However, that was a very minor issue. Other than that, I truly enjoyed this. I usually don't read non-magical fics but I found this to be a very fun read. I may start reading more of them! : )