This story is simply excellent; vivid, detailed writing, strong characterization, and the makings of an intriguing plot. The politicking and cultural misunderstandings playing out so far are just fascinating, and clearly reflect a thoughtful approach to world-building (or world-blending, as the case may be). Willow and Snape aren't a pairing I'd normally be drawn to, but you've sold me on the story by establshing a clear grasp of the complexities of these characters as individuals; setting their similar histories with dark magic aside, Willow and Severus make for very different protagonists, and yet it's obvious that you're equally comfortable with each of their 'voices.' It helps that the secondary players are equally well-realized, especially Dumbledore, who's probably the most difficult of the major Harry Potter characters to write well.

Just discovered what you have written so far - suitably impressed !!

Looking forward to more...

This is a very promising story! I love the insights and the characterization is dead on! Good work, update soon?

How have I not found this story before?

I'm really enjoying this. I love the details you put into it; they really bring the characters and the story to life. And I can't wait to see how this progresses, what happens once the students arrive, and how year 5 will go with Willow there. Excellent story idea and perfect execution. Keep up the good writing :)

Beneficia

This story is a crack up! Entirely in a good way: I love it so much already, especially that when you update, you REALLY update. I'm hopeful for the next chapter, I know it will be just as wonderful.

MORE! I've been badgering AtheneSteph for info. lol Asking when you were going to be able to update and telling her I didn't want to annoy you into beating me. Excellent update! Srsly need more though.

Loved the shopping trip. I don't know who to feel sorrier for, lol. Looking forward to the next.

I have no idea how I have never read this story before, as it is simply marvelous! I love to read stories where focusing on one Scooby doesn't include hating on the others. :)

I truly enjoyed reading this--literally laughed out loud. More than once. I hope that your real life and your beta's are calm, sedate, and full of free time!

Another excellent chapter

The "soul sucking fireplace of doom" was pretty amusing.

I love this story and I'm so glad to see another chapter! I can't wait to see how the meeting goes, and what new quirks Willow will bring our dear wizarding crowd. Please thank your stand-in beta for me, I'm very excited about getting to read your new chapters!

Where I'm from we call them Oh Shit Grip, OSG's for short. I just love this chapter. I'm glad you updated!!!!

I should really learn to look for the pairing before reading a fic. Willow/Snape? I mean, come on. If it wasn't for the fact that the dear girl was a lesbian in the finale seasons of the show that make the pairing weird, there is also the fact that the guy is ugly. Alan Rickman the actor who played Snape in the movies looks nothing like the desription in the books, he's too pretty.

And you can say a lot about Willow but every one she dated or wanted to date was goodlooking. If you compair Xander and Oz to Snape they'd be male supermodels and Tara and Kennedy where simply put Hot.
The fact that Snape at his nicest would make Kennedy at her bitchiest seem friendly also goes against him.
So i don't think i'll keep reading this fic, no matter how well written it is.

Really interested in this store and the plot so far. Please update soon.

I just posted Chapter 7, and I do apologize about the wait. Thanks for reviewing!

Can't wait until you come back to this story...I love the beginning of it and I think you could take it really far and I sooooooo want to read more!

Sorry that it took so long, but 7 is up now. I hope it was worth the wait!

Fabulous! Great job keeping both Snape & Willow in character. Loved the Instructions!

Thank you!