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Hi there! I have not had the chance to read your delightful story yet, and I am fascinated with the setup of your chapter 1!
First off, it's great to see a Welsh background, and the idea that Remus was helping raise a child in a cottage somewhere near a forest is really something I can get behind. I loved seeing McGonagal here, and I also loved seeing Iris catch a glimpse of McGonagal changing into her cat form.
Iris seems like a charming, yet shy girl. You gave me a lot of her personality in this chapter, specifically why she thinks she won't be good in Gryffindor, and learning about her first magic, the reason why Remus has not given her a chance to do any real magic yet. I often wonder what young witches and wizards get up to, knowing they are magical, yet not being allowed to do magic outside of Hogwarts. I'm sure it depends on the parent. Seems like Remus is a cautious one, something that I would have expected.
Iris has some fascination with the unicorns and other magical creatures! That's cool, and also makes sense, since she seems to live so near them. It is kind of the Abbots to take her in when Remus has his 'illness'. I wonder if that means she knows Hannah? That would be super cool if she had a friend once she got to school.
I loved reading about her ideas about Hogwarts, and that she was excited to go, and the apprehension of whether she would get her letter. It's awesome that Remus will be going with her as well. She seems to have lived a sheltered life so far, minus Remus's stories. I hope he has told her enough that she is prepared for what she will face once she gets there.
The other details that you threw into this first chapter have me intrigued: that she likes to call her room a nest, that she knows of Paddington Bear, but does not like jams or marmalades, and such, give me a clear idea of who she is. It will be fun to see what she gets up to next!
Thanks for a delightful first chapter!
Pix
Another charming chapter, my friend! I'm sure Casper would highly approve as I try to court him!
One thing I really liked about this chapter is that in addition to seeing the personalities of the trios on display, we also see more of Iris' personality and some of her similarities she shares with Harry.
They're both sort of conflicted about family feels, but by the end of it, they have a sort of connection to one another and accept their relationship. It was such a nice and slow progression. I also love the admission of awkwardness because that sort of unguarded honesty is exactly how kids are.
Anyway, this was another very nice chapter to advance the plot and further explore more about these characters!
<3 Courtney
Author's Response:Hi, Courtney!
I'm answering these out of order because why not, so if I contradict myself, my b.
I have a lot of difficulty writing Ron, which I don't think is super fair to him. Hermione is probably the easiest for me to write, followed by Harry. Ron is... well, different. I do think that he and Iris play off each other pretty well once they get to know each other. Of the trio, he's probably the one who shows up the least, and I actually feel bad about that. Maybe he'll pop up somewhere. He's the one who doesn't really have a relationship with Iris that's just the two of them, unlike Hermione and Harry, so he really only shows up with the trio. Well, usually. But I do like him, and if I can fit him in more, I will.
This was such a hard chapter to write. I was worried that Harry and Iris would be a little too awkward, but I think I managed to get Harry's voice right. He probably has a lot of mixed feelings about having a cousin, and in a way, Iris is kind of a foil to Dudley. Or, rather, in this series, Dudley is a foil to Iris. They might meet. I don't know. If they do, it will be in a while. Iris should not be allowed to meet Vernon, though. Interestingly enough, her mother has met Petunia. I don't know if that will show up in Sirius Trouble. It might, so I don't want to say much about it right now.
I really love writing Harry and Iris' relationship because they kind of end up basically being the siblings that neither has ever had. Harry tries, but he isn't sure how to be a cousin. Iris is hesitant to really reach out because she's shy and doesn't really know the dynamics. But once they get past all of that, it's actually a really sweet relationship. It's one of my favorites to write.
Thanks for stopping by, and I hope you have a lovely day!
-A
I really liked this chapter! And I think Casper would too for all the family and friend feels that you have going on here! <3
I think you write Remus in such a realistic way. His anger is justified and I can hear him delivering some of those lines in his voice in my head. But to send Iris away...unless of course Iris' father is Sirius Black like Iris seems to think.
I thought the detail about not having your wand at Ilvermorny was interesting. I wonder why...I imagine now that Iris has it, it's becoming a part of her. And to have to part with it, along with all the new friends she's gained at Hogwarts would be very difficult.
I love how you continue to include Crookshanks in this! It almost feels like he is trying to bring the trio closer to Iris. Which is amusing, cute, and very smart in trying to make multiple plotlines converge.
Another great installement!
<3 Courtney
Author's Response:Hi, Courtney!
I found Remus really hard to write when I started this series. I think that as I've written it, he's become a little easier to write. I do try to read his lines with David Thewlis' voice in my head to make sure they sound right, so I'm glad that you can hear that too. Odd that he's very concerned about sending Iris away... Maybe there's something running about the castle that he's concerned about?
That is, unfortunately, canon. I included that as a slight dig at that bit of canon, actually, but Iris would actually cry if she were parted from her wand because of what it represents. She also would cry if parted from her friends, especially Astoria and Sylvia.
Listen, I just love Crookshanks. I absolutely love Crookshanks, so when I needed someone to drag Iris into conversation with Hermione (I think originally it was going to be Percy, only a little more pushy than he ended up being), I decided to use him. The kipper thief is a little bby who deserves snuggles and kippers. I promise that Iris won't continue resenting him as the series goes on. He will be included, and he will get more kippers.
Thanks for stopping by, and I hope you have a lovely day!
-A
Hi A! Back with my last attempt at matching with the minotaur!
And how appropriate for me to be reading this chapter so close to actual Halloween! I am really excited to get your take on this particular canon moment. Or rather, Iris'. :)
Ahh classic left handed problems with writing. I can totally relate. I also like how you portray Iris' view of what she's struggling with at Hogwarts versus those who might be older and therefore, think they are wiser. To her it's merely Snape who is adversarial. And then there's the matter of the quill, but otherwise she's ok, no matter what her elders might say/think. Could it perhaps be Remus being overprotective and asking Pen on the sly to sort of "look out," for Iris? That would be mortifying, wouldn't it hah.
I love that you revisited the hair cutting plot and they were successful! Ophelia seemed like a good sport though as she didn't care either way what it looked like. I cut my own hair around that age and felt a similar sentiment. Sometimes you just want to be control in some changes and changing your hair is one of the few things you can be at this age. Plus, it gave Iris the bit of confidence she needed after the talk with Penelope.
Oh wow, A! The bit with the Flow network being inspected was a really great detail to include in the aftermath of the Sirius Black break in. I like seeing canon events from different POVs. Here the Ravenclaws sort of get it after the fact as a totally whispered thing. Whereas it happens directly to the Gryffindors in the series. So it was neat to see this moment from another POV. I think you handled it really well.
Another great chapter and I cannot wait to continue this story!
<3 Courtney
Author's Response:Hi, Courtney!
Fun fact: I'm left-handed. I cannot use a quill or a fountain pen successfully. At all. Actually, I'm better with quills than fountain pens. I do not understand why they can't just use pencils or something, but pencils have the smearing problem too. The only thing that I don't smear with usually is this gel pen I get specifically because they are, like, anti-smear. I love them, and they come in many colors. But anyway, the quill thing is annoying.
I wish I had thought of Remus asking Penelope to look out for Iris, but alas. Penelope just takes her job as Head Girl really, really seriously. I feel like that is something that Remus would have thought of doing, especially with the whole Sirius Black thing.
The hair cutting thing will be revisited in later fics, don't worry! Ophelia does not like having long hair, so, of course, this will come up. I was that kid who actually wanted longer hair and always was told to get it cut (I hate short hair on me!!). I think Iris is the same way, but Ophelia is the one in the dorm who would want a very shaggy bob. Maybe she should go to a hairdresser next time? :p
I had such a hard time trying not to repeat canon, so for things like this, I kind of just did things from a different POV. I think that's the problem I'm having with the Triwizard Tournament. Also the timing of things in GOF is so annoying, especially at the beginning of the year. POA was laid out so nicely, which is probably why this fic was a lot easier for me to write.
Thanks for stopping by, and I hope you have a lovely day!
-A
Hi A! Trying to match with a minotaur, but reading this story has been absolutely delightful, so I am glad to come back for more!
Ahhh...Iris meets Harry and I am INTRIGUED! Of course Harry knew nothing of her and she knew of him, you set that up earlier in this story, but it's every bit as awkward for them both for a variety of reasons. And Percy would totally be the person trying to bring them together and try to "solve," this "problem."
I love the mention of Wolfsbane Potion and how some of the Ravenclaws are writing to try and advocate for werewolves rights. These little social justice warriors have my heart!
And LOL AT "sir, are you concerned that you might be my father?" I CANNOT. I laughed out loud. But anyway, Snape's obsession with family lineage, given his shit father totally makes sense.
I think you do such a great job at capturing these characters and their essence. And your original characters are definitely interesting and distinctive as well.
The whole library interlude was amusing and ahh...it was like their plans were foiled with Penelope and then the older student! I was eager to see them succeed in getting into the Restricted Section. Maybe another night they'll make it!
And Crookshanks! Your inclusion of canon events and characters is done very well in this!
Another great chapter! I can't wait to get into the next one!
<3 Courtney
Author's Response:Hi, Courtney!
Harry is so freaking awkward in this series. He's kind of awkward in canon, but his awkwardness really shines in this series. He's not entirely sure what to think of having a cousin, tbh, but I really like writing Iris and Harry's relationship. It's just really fun.
Ravenclaws care! It's kind of annoying how we never really see anything like that in canon, so, of course, I had to write something. Also the fact that clearly the werewolves would also like Wolfsbane Potion? It should be widely available, tbh.
Iris is so freaking snarky in this. I love that line because you can tell that Snape wants to yell, but he can't. And Iris is this adorable little eleven year old. She inherited the Potter snark gene. Trust me, this isn't the last time she'll be snarky.
The Restricted Section will be important later. I won't explain why yet, but there are a lot of things in this fic that are setting things up for later ones.
Crookshanks! I love Crookshanks so much, so of course, I had to include him. He is a little kipper thief, and I love him so much.
Thanks for stopping by, and I hope you have a lovely day!
-A
Aww! This is such a sweet ending! I love the domestic atmosphere of this final chapter, and to see Sirius and Iris together and so at ease with each other! <3 And of course Remus is the responsible parent figure, while Sirius is the enabler... so true to their characters and just perfect! <3
No, I suppose Harry is not very good as a penpal... :P kind of typical, that it would be Hermione to suggest him the right present for Iris... :P but I love that they are building this relationship! Yay for the Potter cousins! :D
It's so sweet how the whole village was so supportive of Remus, despite the news of his lycanthropy! And I love that they would bring them casseroles! It's so cool to see the villagers taking care of them, and each other! What a lovely community! <3
And what a lovely birthday for Iris! And such a great way to end this story! It really made me smile! Thank you so much for bringing us on this journey! <3
Big snowball hug,
Chiara
Ahahah! Of course someone else was bound to notice Hermione's strange ability to be in two places at the same time... :P
I almost expected that Iris would somehow end up being present during the Shack scene, but what you did here makes more sense! The idea of Remus telling her the story of the Marauders as if it was a fairytale is so cute! <3 But how sad that found out that Remus' secret had come out and he would leave Hogwarts so suddenly... :/
But yeah! Now she knows that Sirius was innocent! And that he was the dog all along! And they were officially introduced! And that hug!!! <3 <3 <3 It must've been so emotional for them both... <3
And she's staying at Hogwarts! :D Of course she is, now that Sirius is not a menace anymore! ;) Although, we all know the coming years won't be any safer than this one has been... but Remus can't know that... :P
This was so cool! I'm so happy for Iris who has finally found her father! :D
See you on the last chapter in a minute! <3
Snowball hug,
Chiara
Author's Response:Hi Chiara!
Fun fact: Iris was, in the very earliest draft of this fic, going to be in the Shrieking Shack when all of that happened, but I felt like it'd be a bit too much, you know? So she mostly stays out of big things that happen in canon (like the Shrieking Shack, the Quidditch World Cup, etc), but there are a couple key exceptions (and one that people will think is the exception, but she won't be there). It also just felt a little weird to have here there, especially since it's really Harry's moment to find out about Sirius and Peter. With Iris, I wanted something that was a little less confrontational, and a bit more age-appropriate for an eleven year old who barely knows any magic. So she got a fairytale instead. I do like how it ties into how Iris pretty much is incredibly sheltered by Remus, and he's once again the one telling her about something. This time, he's not spinning it in any way. Okay, so he made it a little more child-friendly, but I, for one, don't blame him.
I really liked writing Sirius and Iris finally getting to meet. I didn't want to drag it out, but since it's the end of the fic, I knew that I wouldn't get to dwell on it very long. It's just the first of quite a few scenes between the two of them, and I think you'll like the other ones.
I think my favorite part of this series is the dramatic irony. We (both me and you, the reader) know basically what big things happen in the future. Iris definitely doesn't. It's actually really fun to write this period from the view of someone who doesn't actually know what's going on. She knows that Voldemort was an evil wizard who killed her aunt and uncle, but it's not something she really worries about. As far as she knows, Voldemort is still dead. Let's just say that Iris won't get to be sheltered forever, and it's going to be very interesting when she gets, uh, let's say, involved more heavily in things that Harry deals with.
Thanks for stopping by, and I hope you have a lovely day!
-A
There it comes, the "stay away from stray dogs" warning!
(Yes, I'm still here... I couldn't resist, with the end so close, and the chapter title being so promising... :D)
Btw, I love that you use the good old "furry little problem" with a different spin, it's so cool! :D
In this regard... I think I misread that bit at first, but now I think I got it... is the Ravenclaws' goal to convince the Ministry to lower restrictions around Wolfsbane? That's a very noble cause, if that's what they are doing! :D
Of course Audrey is going to destroy Roger, no way it'd go any different! :P (Although different solutions, if valid, should be accepted. Creative thinking should be prized, not hindered. Am I right?)
Oh, Remus... let this poor girl enjoy things, why wouldn't you? I understand that you are protective, but you can't keep her in a bubble forever... and this idea of the Muggle school is really silly, I'll let you know!
And speaking of silly... "I am not Harry's guardian," Remus said. "I am sure that the Dursleys are taking precautions." Are you Sirius?????
Glad that they finally discussed the other furry little problem, anyway. Although I have to scold Remus again because... YOU ARE NO MONSTER, BUD! But that's just how his brain works, I should be used to it by now... *rolls eyes*
Great chapter! See you on the next in a moment! :D
Snowball hug,
Chiara
Still here! :P (Although I might take a break after this one...)
That's a cool detail, Ophelia being the daughter of two Squibs... I wonder what that is like? Did they raise her as a Muggle, or was she aware of magic, even if they didn't expect her to have it? It's nice that Uncle Herbert was accepting of Squibs, despite clearly having pureblood prejudices. I guess there are different levels of prejudice, and that having a member of the family being in a discriminated group can change people's views...
I forgot that Remus said he didn't want Iris to stay at Hogwarts... :O but he'll probably change his mind soon enough anyway, so nothing to worry about, right? ;)
(I'd love to see Iris researching the Black side of her family in more detail, it would be interesting to see what she finds out!)
Well, we all knew that Hermione had it all figured out as well, right? ;) I'm sure she will keep quiet about it, though, so Iris has nothing to worry about... but of course Iris can't know that, can she? It was nice to see the two of them working together on Buckbeak's case, though! At least Hermione is not completely alone in this!
Another nice chapter! I'll be back soon! <3
Snowball hug,
Chiara
Well, it was only a matter of time, wasn't it? (Although, no, Iris, I'm pretty sure most of the other students are completely clueless :P) At least Remus is not dying, so that's a good news? But I can see how discovering that he'd hidden something so big from her for so long would make her feel betrayed, also because she's been worrying for nothing all this time...
I love how Madam Pince is like, what are you researching today? Like, I can imagine her being half resigned half exasperated at Iris being curious about things she shouldn't... :P I love the comparison to James Potter, how he went to Madam Pince with the same questions about werewolves! It's so cool!
But what a stupid, stupid idea, going out on the full moon to try to catch Remus transformed... really, Iris, do you even have a survival instinct??? Sirius trying to get her out of there, and then stepping in front of her to protect her from the werewolf... aww!!! <3 <3 <3
And of course Snape arrives, and he's his usual, nasty self... but that's his way to be concerned, and I guess it's nice that he is concerned at all...
And then Dumbledore being the typical Dumbledore... no punishment, just a little talk about not doing this again and a sherbet lemon... lol! :P
I suppose Iris and Remus are going to have an interesting conversation soon, aren't they? :P
Great chapter! :D
Snowball hug,
Chiara
Hi again! :D
Ah, I always love a good Christmas chapter! :D And it's really nice that Iris managed to forget about all her troubles, at least for a little while, even if the chapter started with her struggling to get into the festive atmosphere... I get that, sometimes it's hard to do so... :/
I agree with Madam Pince, the Sylvia's birthday excuse was a poor one... :P It is rather unfair that Sirius was sent to Azkaban with no trial, and people who were known to be Voldemort supporters remained free... :/ (a little thing, but I think I should mention it... you first say Cathair Selwyn and then Ruadh Selwyn and I'm assuming you're talking about Sylvia's father and changed the name by mistake, unless I misunderstood something? Nothing important, but just in case you wanted to check...)
It's always interesting to hear people who'd known Sirius as a kid talking about him before the reveal of his innocence. Yeah, it's very strange that he would betray James and Lily like that, isn't it? :/ And yeah, there were other people who could've been Secret Keepers... Iris is onto something there... :P
I wonder what Remus was thinking when Iris told him about the dog... he must've understood immediately which dog they were discussing... I'm surprised he was so calm about it, that he didn't even tell Iris to stay away from it or to show him or something like that. Of course, Remus keeping his feelings bottled inside is nothing new, but still, I wish I knew what was going on in his head in that moment, it must've been a big shock! Iris asking if Snape was her father definitely lessened the mood, though, didn't it? Remus must've found the idea so ridicolous, lol! :P
I love that they took that little trip to Hogsmeade together! It was very sweet! <3
I'm glad that Iris and Harry spent some time playing together, they need each other, I love the idea of them getting a bit closer! <3
The Christmas dinner was fun! Trust Snape being nosy as usual and forcing Iris to eat sprouts... I mean, yeah, vegetables are important for the health and everything, but no one should be forced to eat something they don't like, and surely it's none of Snape's business! But it's also kind of hilarious how all the kids ended up with extra vegetables because of that comment, lol! :P
I forgot to mention... I love that Padfoot is still running around the school and that Iris run into him again! I still wonder if he knows...
Another lovely chapter! See you on the next in a little bit! :)
Snowball hug,
Chiara
Author's Response:Hi, Chiara!
Aw man, I forgot to fix the Cathair thing. Someone pointed it out a while back, and I thought I changed it. I have fixed it now! Cathair is Sylvia's father, and Ruadh is her grandfather. I messed up putting names in (whoopsie!), so it's supposed to be Cathair. I think it's fixed now. If not, please let me know. I am always very happy to correct oopsies like that.
Remus knows exactly who that dog is. He also knows that he can't tell Iris that he knows who that dog is. Remus is having a lot of trouble right now. I do feel bad for him. His thoughts: "dammit dammit dammit dammit dammit". Slightly kidding, but he's dealing with a lot.
Iris would very much like to fling the sprouts onto Snape's plate, but Remus would lecture her, and she'd have to apologize to Snape, so obviously, she can't do that. Sadly. As much as she and I would like that to happen. Maybe next year...
Sirius may or may not know. It could be interpreted either way, but I suggest looking at him during the kitchen scene. There's something there that hints at whether or not he knows.
Thanks for stopping by, and I hope you have a lovely day!
-A
Hi! I've decided to do an Iris full immersion today, for both the werewolf and the minotaur (and because I enjoy this story a lot and I've been away for too long...)
Btw, confession... I skipped the debate chapter... meaning I read it a while ago and then forgot to review... but I did enjoy it quite a lot, it was interesting to watch how these little kids approached the debate and argued their point. Very proud of them both! :D (I'm not sure which side I'm on, to be honest... on one hand, I understand the security issue, but on the other it's also true that there isn't that big difference between a first and a second year, and if someone gets chosen for a team they probably have the qualities for it anyway, so what's the point of discriminating by age? And the rule was already broken for Harry, so... but I'm digressing... I should probably review this chapter now! :P)
I really liked the opening scene in the Owlery! There's something so cute about characters petting their animals and talking to them... I just really like the image! <3
But... oooh! She met Padfoot!!! She met her dad!!! Even if she has no clue that she did... but still... I wonder if Sirius knew? Or was he just glad to have someone taking care of him and offering him food and shelter for a little while? Either way, I'm so emotional about this! Poor Padfoot, so thin and cold... :( but you can always count on the kitchen house-elves for some extra food, right? ;) Lol at Sirius eyeing the biscuits and Iris and Evan being like, no way, chocolate is not good for dogs! :P
It must be a bit sad to stay at Hogwarts for the holidays, while all your friends are going back home... but at least Iris has Remus, and Harry, and the castle to explore, so that's not too bad... and poor Remus, having to endure the full moon over the holidays... it's really sweet how he'd always be around and making the effort on Christmas for Iris, even when he was in that time of the month... he's a really great caretaker, isn't he? <3
Of course, Snape would appear while Iris is talking about him in an embarrassing way... so typical! :P That reference to dementors was a bit creepy, but maybe he didn't mean it in a bad way, just telling her to be careful in his own not very sympathetic way? And no, no worries, Iris. It's totally okay if you prefer the idea of being Sirius' daughter! :P
Great chapter! I'll be back in a moment! :D
Snowball hug,
Chiara
A, my friend, back for some werewolf wooing and to see what Iris gets up to in this next chapter!
First of all, I don't think there's anything wrong with your chapter titles. Though I totally get it, titling things is my least favorite too. I just wanted to point out that I think because they give us some indication of what to expect in the chapter, they totally work well! Anyway, onto the story!
Ahh Yukata and Iris moments! I love how well the seem to work together. In spite of Snape's badgering. I like that we see other Potter's in this. Potter was a common Wizarding name in this universe and so it stands to reason there would be more than just Harry. It's interesting that Snape's distaste is for everyone who bears the name. But you definitely paint the picture of being wholly stressed in a classroom with a hovering teacher quite well. There's tension and a bit of anxiety, but Iris keeps her cool for the most part.
I like how we then see Charms, which feels a bit lighter for Iris. She seems more at ease here.
One thing I really liked that you did is give the first years a guide with the prefect's. I thought that was a nice touch to give the kids some ease as they maneuver about the castle. I imagine they would probably get lost on their first few days without assistance hah.
I also really liked the mood you evoked amongst the dorm mates. It feels fun and light hearted where the chapter opens with them discussing "girlie things," or having this moment that a lot of teenage girls do. And then at the end they sort of return to the point where they started at the beginning of the chapter. But they're different than they were at the beginning of the chapter. They've seen more and know more than they did at the start, but they return to things that are familiar and comforting to them.
Anyway, another delightful chapter! I hope to return for some more reviews of this! :)
<3 Courtney
Author's Response:Hi, Courtney!
I totally meant to respond to this before the other ones, sorry! Please pretend I did.
Titling things is actually the worst. I usually title chapters before I've really written them and then either go back and change it to something a little more fitting or just leave it. Sometimes, they're kind of a summary of what's going to happen, and sometimes, they are incredibly random (aka, the X-Men ones). Oh, and there are some that are funniest when read along with the next chapter's title. There's going to be an example of that in the next fic, once I get to that bit.
Yukata and Iris's friendship... There is so much I'd like to say, but I can't because spoilers. But I really love writing them together because of how they interact. They're both very similar and very different. Yukata in general is just a fun character to write, especially as he grows up. I honestly think that he's one of my favorite characters in this series, possibly tied with Roland.
Potter is such a common last name that there would have to be more than just one family of them in the wizarding world. That being said, there is a reason why Snape realizes that Iris is from Harry's family. Hint: she looks very much like one of her relatives, but not on that side. She looks so much like them to the point where it's actually a little creepy. I will stop with the hints because I really don't want to spoil it, but I'm looking forward to when you learn about Iris' family.
Tbh, I included the prefects a bit more than I thought I would because of Audrey and Evan. I originally created them for Notes, and I thought that they'd be about as important to Iris as Percy as a prefect is to Harry. And then I got attached to them in Notes (which is set in Iris' third year, so good news! It's canon to this series!). I also thought that the prefects were very under-utilized in canon, so I gave them a few things to do.
Maybe I just really like writing friendships in this series. Iris is the main character, but the other girls in her dorm are fairly important. They're not plot-important (not necessarily, like in this fic), but Iris does gain a few friends over the course of the series. She goes from someone whose closest friend is her godfather to someone who actually has friends her age that she loves and supports. So I like including bits where the five of them just get to be kids. I felt like things like that were kind of missing from canon, and I like getting to use headcanons about wizarding culture. :p
Thanks for stopping by, and I hope you have a lovely day!
-A
Hiya A! I might be here to woo a werewolf, but I am equally delighted to carve out some time to continue this story! I love Iris! I miss her! Why can’t I just avoid all adult responsibilities and read the great fanfiction that all you lovely humans have written?! Ahh…but anyone, onto the story!
I always enjoy watching students speculate what to expect regarding the Sorting Ceremony. I suppose there isn’t much for them to do prior to going through the process. And it is made to be such a significant moment for everyone’s Hogwarts matriculation.
I do like the varying personalities you create among Iris’ peers. You do a great job at showing the different perspectives and opinions they each have of this moment.
The debate between Iris and the hat was very amusing. You write the preteen voice so well!
And Roger and Audrey! Ahh…I am so happy to get to see some familiar Ravenclaws again! I do love all your worldbuilding details…knocker…the riddle (brilliant, I would always freak out and fail, so therefore, I could never be a Ravenclaw lol)...and the idea of Rowena Ravenclaw enchanting it to protect the knowledge she collected…the way you expressed that was absolutely lovely.
Your descriptions of Ravenclaw Common Room were wonderful! It feels very vast yet homey and it’s all a credit to the way the kids made it this way. I love the nods to Notes in this…the bulletin board…the debates…you did a great job at crafting your own universe here! :)
And that end line was incredibly sweet, A!
<3 Courtney
Author's Response:Hey, Courtney!
That is an absolute mood because I'm using replying to reviews to avoid the looming job applications! I've been working on the next in the Iris series for a bit, but I've been a bit blocked, so I'm hoping that Nano might make me a bit more productive. It's not my Nano project, but I find that I get more productive during/after Nano with most of my projects.
I wanted to make this more dramatic, but sometimes, it's difficult to keep them dramatic and sounding like eleven year olds. There was also supposed to be a bit more of Astoria and Romilda arguing, but I decided to save that for the next book.
Yes, Roger, Evan, and Audrey show up! They are actually vaguely important in this series! And by vaguely important, I mean that they're kind of the mentors that Iris goes to a lot. So they're not plot-important, but they're important to Iris. Roger is more comic relief than anything else, but he thinks of himself as Iris' year's third prefect, so he's the fun uncle.
Tbh, I want to have a library that wraps around, so that's why I put it in. It seems like it'd be fun, and imagine how many books you could fit!
Thanks for stopping by, and I hope you have a lovely day!
-A
A! I'm back at this story because I love Iris so much and I need more of her story!
So I think it's interesting that Iris feels some level of comfort staying at the Abbotts, but she is not totally at ease. The little details you throw at us: her being afraid of Hannah's snoring and her mother not being particularly close to her godmother, who is Hannah's Mum, but it being more of an arrangement due to convivence, really highlight this. So it's not altogether surprising that Iris does not really want to sit with Hannah on the train. I think the way you show us little things about human nature is well done. :)
Ahh Sylvia makes another appearance! And Astoria! I really loved the progression of them meeting and then the ending where they took one another's hands and make this little declaration of friendship. It was really sweet. I also love Iris' irritation about Hannah fuzzing over her, that was highly amusing as well.
I think you really explored this part of Iris' Hogwarts journey in great detail while developing your cast of original characters further.
Well done!
<3 Courtney
LostRobin! Your world building in this is absolutely charming. I love your descriptions of the nearby village, the postal system, and how Iris is given a certain level of responsibility because this world she chiefly occupies is so well insulated and therefore "safe." I like how you to start to challenge this idea by us first hearing about Sirius' escape then also having her learn about Voldemort's reign of terror during the first war, though even that is partially concealed in the way Remus tells it. It's totally believable by the way, I just really enjoyed how you start to show us this shift in Iris' life.
And we learn that Iris is a Potter and that that means something to someone like Sylvia Selwyn. And not necessarily a good something. It's heartbreaking that kids have to learn about things like discrimination in the way that they do. And the way you treat this moment is totally believable.
And omgawsh, the way she clings to this wand and the wand as a status system, it felt very sweet and totally something a kid would do. I also loved that moment at the end, where Iris laughs at Remus for having whipped cream on his nose and their little "you'll always be my favorite teacher/student," thing was totally endearing! I am totally invested in this story and cannot wait to read onward!
Amazing job!
<3 Courtney
Hi LostRobin! I have been meaning to check out your Iris albicans series for a while and life has just gotten in the way. I'm here to remedy that now.
This is such a charming story! I loved the description of the forest surrounding the cottage and how it has become something of a safe haven for Iris and Remus. You can tell the bond they have is special. Remus cares for her and wants to protect her from his lycanthropy...how curious that she doesn't know about it! But I suppose he does not want her to be stigmatized as society seems fit to stigmatized him for the condition.
I wonder if this is entirely AU or if this is set during PoA because Remus is going to teach. Either way I look forward to what both of them being at Hogwarts will do to their relationship.
Another thing I want to mention is, I think you write from the POV of a child very well! The tone of the story was endearing and I really felt from the observations that Iris made and certain word choices you made in regards to you, really set this up to feel like an authentic POV, maturity and development wise.
Also, Karl the Knarl as a magical version of a Winnie the Pooh character...lovely little detail!
Great start and I look forward to seeing what happens to Iris during her time at Hogwarts!
<3 Courtney
~* 146 rising through the ranks *~
Author's Response:Hi, Courtney!
So technically, with the premise, it *has* to be considered an entire AU, but it's really not. Unless otherwise stated, things go pretty according to canon or are canon-adjacent. So, for example, Remus teaches at Hogwarts during Harry's third year and Harry still blows up Aunt Marge (which I sadly didn't reference in this fic, but it might come up later). Honestly, this is Iris' story, not Harry's, so I didn't want to drastically change canon unless the changes by having Iris in them would necesitate them. There are a couple major changes later on, but not in this fic. They're not, uh, major plot-altering for Harry, but they do change a few things.
I was worried that I was making Iris sound both too childish and too mature, if that makes sense. She's a very well-read eleven year old, but she is also a very sheltered eleven year. That's part of the plot, Iris discovering this world outside of her forest. Sometimes, I feel she comes off as a little too immature, and sometimes, she doesn't exactly sound like an eleven year old. I have to work on that, but I'm glad that you like it so far!
Karl the Knarl is my favorite in this chapter. My favorite character is introduced slightly later (but I think you'll like him too), but I love Karl. He's so grumpy.
That is exactly why Remus hasn't told her. I thought about writing it with her knowing before she got to Hogwarts, but it felt drastically out-of-character for Remus to tell her that. He is ashamed of being a werewolf, and he does not want anyone knowing that, especially Iris. I took some inspiration for him being a guardian from how he seems to be with the whole Teddy thing in DH, but I had to take a few liberties for this plot to happen in the first place.
Thanks for stopping by, and I hope you have a lovely day!
-A
Hey, I'm here with a galazy review :)
This is such a heart-warming and perfect final chapter to this story which I've loved reading. It's so summery and perfect and wraps the story up so well. Love the fact that Iris helps the bowtruckle off the wndowsill and then finds a tree for him or her to reside in, and Roland is trilling - all feels well with the world, LOL.
Love the description of Iris's birthday - the first one with her father present and the first one where she gets a gift from cousin Harry too. Sirius completely spoils her with sweets before lunch, haha!! (and tells her not to inform Remus). But the most adorable part by far is Sirius taking Iris to meet Buckbeak and go for a fly over and around the forest. It's such a perfect father-daughter moment that makes me go ahhhhh and melt a little inside. Especially when she gives him a hug afterwards <3
Loved this story so much! Thanks for writing <3
Meera <3
Hey, here for a galazy review!
Iris gaining three points is a good day by her standards (which have unfortunately been set by Snape, the git). Love the idea that Audrey thinks debating is some kind of 'treat' haha! And good grief, the older students are going to select two first years at random to debate a topic of someone else's choosing? Yeah, not fun. Poor Iris having to go first :(
I totally sympathise with Iris; talking in front of a group of people is one of my fears too. LOL that she can barely see over the podium - I suppose at least she won't be able to see all those eyes staring back at her. Roger is trying to be comforting I guess, with his 'everyone has lost a debate at some point' speech, which Iris seems to find a bit of solace in. I hope she can do this :/
Another great chapter!
Meera <3
Hi again! Here for another galazy review and I can't stay away from this story, okay? <3
Rude, Ron. You can't just refer to Iris as 'Percy's first year'. And Harry seems pretty down. I can't remember if this is before or after he's found out about Sirius Black supposedly selling his parents out to Voldemort, but it may be after the Quidditch match when the Deemntors appeared and Harry fell off his broom. Maybe he's upset about his Nimbus 2000...
But when Iris tells Harry about how awful Snape is, I wonder whether it creates a bit of a bond of sympathy from Harry to Iris, and I'm glad they are able to discuss being cousins and what that might mean for them both? There's certainly family stuff that each of them can fill the other in on, and when/if Sirius Black gets his name cleared, maybe they will find out more?
Intrigued to see how this story will pan out <3 Thanks for the great read!
Meera <3
Hi again! Back for a galazy review!
Oh my, I love Iris's internal monologue - Dumbledore didn't look as majestic as he did when he was giving a speech haha!! But too right Remus is angry at Sirius being able to break into the school and endanger the students. But transferring Iris to Beauxbatons or Ilvermorny is probably a bit reactionary on his part LOL. Understandable, though. He thinks one of his best friends is a murderer after all.
OOHH and Iris has twigged onto the fact that Sirius Black might be her father! I mean it's exciting to find out the identity of her father but to know he's a mass murderer must cause her a lot of confusion. Although as she quite rightly points out, she is not her father; she's her own person.
And via Crookshanks, maybe she's going to get a chance to talk to her cousin properly for once...
I'll be back soon!
Meera <3
Hi again! I'm back for a galazy review :)
Glad Iris is settling in well. Not surprising that Defence is proving to be straightforward for her to get to grips with, seeing as it's taught by a teacher who doesn't viciously hate the students and is good at imparting knowledge LOL. It's a saving grace if Snape ignores her - far better than him picking on her.
Poor Iris getting called to explain the point loss to Penelope though. Of course the Ravenclaws would be paranoid about losing as few points as possible, haha. I'm surprised more kids don't have difficulty using a quill, though; it's so different from a pen it'd be like learning to write all over again :/
Halloween isn't a good night for any surviving Potters to remember, but this year it's taken quite a dramatic turn with Sirius trying to break into Gryffindor tower. The history has obviously come as a bit of a surprise for Iris - I think Remus is going to have to answer some questions soon :eyes:
Loving this story so far!
Meera <3
Hi again! Back for a galazy review!
Yay, the moment I was waiting for - Iris meeting Harry! And...she doesn't seem vastly impressed lol. And poor Harry seemed really hopeful when he asked Iris whether he had an Uncle. Which put Iris on the spot; presumably it's still pretty difficult for her to talk about her mother (does she remember her mother), and she has no idea WHO Harry's uncle is. I'm still putting money on Harry's uncle/Iris's father being Sirius Black, by the way...
Love the description of Iris avoiding Percy as though he was a walking pile of brussels sprouts LOL
That's SO cruel of Snape to set Iris an essay on Wolfsbane :((( but I loved her retort about Snape being worried that he's her father, hahaha!! Although that would be some twist!!
Was it Crookshanks that stole the kippers? I love the inclusion of animals in this story <3
And the situation in the prefects' bathroom - is this Sirius Black breaking into the school?? :eyes:
Things are hotting up and I'm dyyyying for Iris to find out who her father is.
Meera <3
Hi again! Back for another galazy review :)
Ending up in the Forbidden Forest instead of the Great Hall for breakfast is some feat of getting lost, haha!! And already I love the thinking that's going on in the Ravenclaw dormitory about mass evacuations, maps and why Hogwarts is Unplottable.
I'm glad that the Ravenclaw prefects seem to take their duties seriously and look after new students between classes, rather than letting them wander around lost and hopeless!
I feel so sorry for Iris in Potions, though, especially as she was looking forward to it so much. That was before she found out what a git Snape is. And he's really gittish here, taunting Iris unforgivably about her parentage (as though she can help that) and taking unnecessary points off her.
At least the rest of her day didn't seem too bad (apart from nearly falling asleep during Percy's speech, ha). Percy seemed to take note of her name, though; I wonder whether he's going to introduce Iris to Harry?
Another great chapter!
Meera <3
Hi, I'm back for a galazy review :)
Ah, the sorting! I wavered between Gryffindor and Ravenclaw for Iris, purely based on her need for a tower, haha! So I'm glad she's ended up somewhere with a tower and some of her friends have been sorted into the same house. It makes it all a little less daunting for Iris, not that I think she's particularly nervous, but facing all the new stuff with a friend by her side makes it more straightforward. Loved Astoria coolly slapping down that annoying girl who was being rude about Slytherin. Also love how Iris is concerned for the sorting hat's welface if it's sentient and has to spend much of the year alone. Yay for Iris guessing the answer to the riddle too! Looking forward to reading on and finding out what's going to happen next...
Meera <3
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