So I just got as far as this story and I love it. But I wish I had read it at the time it was posted because all the shit you got for it made me angry.

In a way, I am also a Careeser. I loved the relationship that they had on the show and believe that John fell in love with Joss from the moment she first saw him as more than just a homeless drunk and asked him if he needed any help. But I also liked that they relationship was complicated. The kiss in The Crossing was perfect but in a way so was her death. Taraji wanted to move on, and they got the best send off, I think of any TV character ever! Not just her last episode which I loved, but the way the characters, especially John handled her death. John is a character that has been battling depression since the first episode, and if people can’t see that then they’ve never experienced it themselves, because even when he appears to be okay, there’s something in the back of his eyes. Jim Caviezel is a genius at this and those who don’t think we get enough character development aren’t looking into his eyes enough. If anyone needs therapy it’s John Reese and I thought it was a great way of opening him up after he closed himself off after Carter. The show was absolutely right to go with that storyline and I find it perfectly reasonable that, after a year of loss, he might feel something from a woman who is asking him to open up and cares about his feelings. As for the diversity thing, are people seriously bitching about a show that has awesome female characters, a disabled main character and another that has severe damage to his mental health, an inter-racial (almost) relationship, followed by another inter-racial lesbian love story. And yet none of these things feel laboured pandering to tokenisms!

And if I can bring my rant back to reviewing your story, I liked your version of Iris. She was completely in keeping in what we know about her character and she’s obviously good for John. John handled her drama beautifully, and he was obviously good for her too. It was nice to see a story from an outsiders point of view, especially someone who can analyse Reese’s vulnerabilities. I especially loved her analogy about John being like Snow the abused puppy. And John’s heartfelt confession to her about his previous relationships was perfect. Lastly, your plot was brilliant, and the story was well paced, their relationship was pitched at just the right level and there were no promises of a happy ever after. (I’m binge-watching this show and am currently up to 5.02, and am scared to get to the end because I can’t ever see a fluffy happily ever after for John.)

So, that’s my piece, and I’m glad I’ve said it. I know it was a while ago, but I’m hoping you’re still writing and not letting the haters get you down.

You broke my heart and glued it together with a couple of pieces missing and i really wish she had meet root or shaw.

That definitely wasnt making out! Her family was right there that was wrong

Hazing?! I get it why she wont call it what it is which was gang rape. But god i am so feel with rage and sadness

They both need to reveal things about themselves

Only a t rating? I am slightly disappointed

Poor iris! They definitely deserved dieing

What the hell is definitely how she feels about him

Love this story

I stayed up till past midnight last night reading this. Your writing is terrific and whenever I see a story of yours I can't stop reading. :) This is a great way to fill in the blanks regarding John and Iris. I agree that this past season really didn't focus much on character development and this relationship needs more substance.
It's so unfortunate that others have chosen to leave negative comments about various aspects of the story and of the show. Good for you to take the high ground.
I'm looking forward to seeing more "Redemption" when you have the time.

I really enjoyed this story. It really showed the potential for John and Iris to develop into something wonderful. I look forward to more Redemption.

I bet Iris never expected that to happen with her brothers in the row in front of them. She didn't seem to mind and fortunately her brothers didn't seem to notice.

Despite her brothers trying their best to make Iris embarrassed, her sundress got the reaction she'd hoped from John. I love the family dynamics.

So glad you brought some closure to this story. I know many of us enjoyed it. Glad to hear that you'll be working on Redemption next. Thought about that story lately with the hope you'd finish it. Thanks for writing and sharing this story. But also sorry to hear about the little boy. If you feel up to it and write a story related to it, please share it. It may be cathartic.

I have spent an enjoyable evening reading about John & Iris. So well written! I think you caught Iris's personality & psyche perfectly. Nailed John's story. Thoroughly enjoyed how you brought in actual parts from the show.

No matter what happens I hope you will write more about John & Iris.