Even in the show there were times when Spike's character wasn't consistent. Many of the show writer's had different views on Spike and that translated onto the show. I think it confused a lot of people on who exactly Spike is. But oddly enough I also think that is why Spike's character seems so multi-layered.

I for one I have my own personal view on Spike (which I am sure you do too) and I suppose I want to see/read Spike that is closer to how I see Spike.

It's hard to say who Spike really is though and I think only the original writers of the show can truly write canon Spike. Which is extra sad because DH is now working with some of the original writers (season 9 will be written mostly by this new guy, so even now I'm not as excited because I'll just see most of season 9 as another fanfic with Joss' approval). I can totally understand why you don't want to touch anything from DH after season 8. It was truly horrible what they did to Buffy and Angel as characters and I would die if they did anything of the sort with Spike.

Luckily I felt disconnected enough with the comics I can separate it from the show and see the comics as this really big weird official AU.

I'm really sorry that the comics killed your love for the verse, but I totally understand why. :huggles: