Left me an emotional wreck. In a good way ( )

I stumbled across all the great reviews for this fanfic story, and even though I am not familiar with Teen Wolf at all, never watched a single episode, I got curious. And I have to say that this is amazingly powerful, never mind what series it is based on.

Sheriff Stiles, who tells the story (in second person, no less), and tells it well, is an amazing father. He has a lot to deal with when they find his son Stiles has been raped. The sheriff's memories of Stiles growing up are poignant interludes which make perfectly clear who he is, and who Stiles is. The way he supports Stiles is amazing, and led to an ending that was way more hopeful than I had expected. Very, very touching.

The emotions are raw, there are a lot of mysterious hints at something big going on in the background (all the animal attacks are clearly not mountain lions!), and the sheriff's gradual acceptance of what is happening with Stiles is beautiful. ( )

I'm not exactly sure how to start with, “I absolutely hate second-person narration, this story is gonna suck,” and end with “Holy crap, that was just about the most amazing thing I've read in a long time.” What can I possible say in between those two statements? Not much, apparently, because all I have is the very heartfelt (but not very verbose) suggestion to readers: Read This. I almost skipped it and I am so glad I didn't. ( )

Okay, Ms. Henry, I am going to need a sequel to this one. Just gave my own sons big hugs.

This is John's POV, reminiscing from various points during Stiles' adolescence to the present when he finds out that Stiles has been raped and beaten. To his discoveries of Stiles' secret. Tender moments observed between Derek and Stiles and a new respect(?) / perspective(?) of Derek Hale.

John's POV is one I think many of us has had as parents in regards to the delicate balance of how to protect your kids and let them find their own way at the same time. How to look at your failings and successes as a parent. When to push and when to back off. And maybe when you notice that someone has taken over (or begun to share) these protective duties with you. Someone who is talking to your kid when you're not. Sharing his secrets that he doesn't share with you. And despite being the parent, you trust this person to make the smile on your kid's face, you are willing to share.

It's gut wrenching. It's endearing. It's Lisa Henry's - you'll love it (as much as you might hate it).