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A Spring Fair in Minas Tirith  by Regina 1 Review(s)
RAKSHA THE DEMONReviewed Chapter: 9 on 10/12/2004
This is a lovely story, fresh and buoyant as the atmosphere at the Fair.

My only quibble comes for this chapter; and it's very minor - the animal merchant has spaniel puppies. I don't think that Spaniels were developed as hunting breeds before the use of guns for hunting became common (neither were Retrievers, Pointers or Setters). But the scene with Merry wanting and buying the little bitch pup was wonderful; hopefully a good dog is prized in the Shire.

Author Reply: Just as a FYI regarding the spaniel puppy--in fact, small spaniels (similar to today's Cavalier King Charles Spaniels) were bred from medieval times forward as little lapdogs & comforters for royalty & nobility. They were very popular in Tudor times, often painted with their owners. So try to picture a pretty lapdog suitable for a lady of the court, not a bigger gundog. I actually had a great deal of trouble finding a good breed to allude to, since so many are modern. Thought this was the best choice out there. :-)

Am very glad you enjoyed it a lot! I'm curious now to hear what you thought of some of the other chapters, if you would be so kind. :-)

Regina

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