Most importantly he really seems to ‘get’ Spike. He sounds and behaves like the Spike we know and love, full of all the strengths and flaws that make him who he is. And the dialogue *sparkles*! If Joss suddenly decreed this story canon I’d take him at his word in a heartbeat

Yup!

I bought this one based solely on your rec, and I'm not sure I thanked you! It was excellent, and I read it in one go! Couldn't put it down!