This was a most satisfying reading experience, both emotionally and Snarry-wise. It’s not that I don’t appreciate fancy genres or intricate plots, but there’s nothing like a story where Severus and Harry actually spend time together (for whatever reason) and talk. I loved how they did just that in this story, how they gradually got closer to each other and approached the crux of the matter while conducting their ”forced adventure.”
What with their past experiences in canon and the events after the war as you described them, including the heartbreaking ”incident,” there were plenty of fascinating topics to tackle. Besides, the important issues, such as deserving, belonging and loneliness, were easy to relate to, because they concern everybody. And as much as I loved all the talking, it was Severus’ hands-on lesson in deserving that took my breath away. Not only was it incredibly sensual and touching, but it made me realize how much the ”incident” had affected him.
I also loved the way the ”interruptions” by Hamish, the shinty matches and the trips to their homes gave impetus to more and more intimate conversations, confessions and interaction. At the same time, they provided a welcome distraction from the often serious, intense discussions. OTOH, I think I almost resented Julian at first for turning up just when Severus and Harry had the opportunity to bask in happiness for a while. But he was such a jovial guy I couldn’t hold a grudge against him. :)
Lastly, I really enjoyed learning about the audiobook business and about the books that Severus was recording, and although I suffer from similar gaps in education as Harry did, I never felt like I was missing out on something, despite the central role Captains Courageous played. It was beautifully written and poignant. When Harry stopped to listen to Severus’ reading for the first time, I cried. Also, I was happy to see that despite his problems, Harry had found his niche in woodworking. What a lovely connection to his father, as well!