EXCELLENT prequel! The growing frustration with his own inabilities and John's obvious skill - thanks for the backstory!

Ooh, this is really good. Poor Finch trying to save all those people on his own and failing must have been tough on him. I liked the ending as well! Very nicely done. :)

This story could very well have been an episode! Well done :)

Lisa

I'm sure you're surprised to get reviews and readings almost two years after publishing a fanfic, but I just wanted you to know I loved your story, and it still seems pretty much canon-based after all this time rather than becoming AU (and considering how TPTB like their plot twists, that in and of itself is quite remarkable!). Loved it!

My husband and I just recently got into this show. I was really drawn in by the heart of the characters, especially Finch, which is funny because I never thought I would like any character he could play so much. It's a welcome surprise, and your story here is exactly the kind of fic I was looking for. Great characterization, thanks!

I came across this story by accident, but I am so glad I did! You really captured Harold's frustration during this ("Beta") period. I especially liked the devise of using each number to underscore that fact. Very well done. Thanks so much for writing!

Tru

This is such an excellent story. I love the way that you have examined Finch's own attempts to resolve his knowledge with action. Thank you!

Very sweet, very sad.

Auugghhh, this was so heartbreaking. And the end was purely lovely. Very well written as well. Most, most excellent.

Very good description of just how Finch picked Reese. Write more please!

Great back story. Very creative with the different POI and their stories and how Finch tries different tactics to intervene. I love the section where Finch becomes a POI and the chef intervenes- turning point for him.

great job! it's somewhat sad but it's cool to see what Finch went through before Reese. It's also cool to see that Finch tried everything he could to help the people. Very nice writing D

WOW! You are very creative. And I like how you've portrayed Finch learning, by trial and error, what would and would not work.

It felt a bit long, reading through all those different cases, but it was very satisfying to see how Finch might have finally come across Reese.

The only thing outdated at this point is that Finch doesn't drink coffee, apparently - only sencha green tea, no sugar. ;)

I love this, I agree with the rest that Finch is very much in character. one could easily see this being adapted into a real script... nice work!

Impressive! Now I would like to see you write how Finch tracks Reese down. Glad to see another author in thise community.

Angela