Time to Make a Change by Pervinca
Cm · 20 March 2004 · Chapter 9999: Last of the Ring-bearers
Oh...this is just a glorious, glourious tale. I was so touched while reading every single mini-story -- especially Merry's. They where all so poignant, and just beautiful. Excellent job.
Author's reply
Thanks very much! I tried very hard with these stories. I tend to write more humerous fics, so it was a bit of a challenge for me to be so dramatic and angsty. Glad you think it went down well!
Grav · 29 February 2004 · Chapter 9999: Last of the Ring-bearers
I adored this story. It made me cry, it broke my heart, it made me laugh, and it gave me a very nice warm glowy feeling in the centre of my stomach. Sam's part was well done, and Merry and Pippin's even more so, because all of Sam's children knew what was happening. This whole story was just amazing, and I absolutely loved it. I think I need a hug. Or possibly, some chocolate.
Author's reply
Well, I'm going to reply to all of your reviews for this story in this one, just because I'm lazy (anyone who knows me well can tell you that), and also so you won't end up with *too* many emails! Thank you so much for your lovely reviews for all of them! To be honest, writing them didn't make me upset, but when I read back through them, I found myself becoming a little tearful (especially in Sam's chapter, because I always loved the Gaffer). And as for the individual chapter replies... I actually didn't think of Bungo's proverbs until I was halfway though the story, and I had to change the name as a result! I was re-reading "The Hobbit" at the time, as well as playing the video game far too much, so I'll blame that! Frodo's chapter was the hardest and the easiest to write (if that makes sense), because I don't really like Frodo all that much, but his parents were the only ones I had an actual cause of death for. I've read one or two stories about Frodo's time in Buckland, so I drew inspiration from them. As I said earlier, the Gaffer was always one of my much loved characters, and I hated to see him die, but that's why I tried to honour him as much as I could in that chapter. I always got the idea that Ham never really *said* how he felt about his family, but Tolkien's work made it clear that Sam knew his dad loved him. Merry's chapter was difficult to write, and you might have seen that I avoided giving an actual cause of death for Saradoc. The flashback idea was a second thought that came to me while I was writing, so to begin with, all I was working with was the mention of letters from Rohan! Ah, my poor old Dad (well, obviously, not my *real* dad). In other stories I had Paladin being a bit of a mischievous fellow (I mean, where else would Pip pick it up!), so I had to work it in. Glad you liked the letter. My only issue was with the beginning. Final chapter! I was inspired to write that chapter by the epilogue that I mentioned at the end. Best $82 I ever spent, buying those "History of Middle-Earth" books. So many wonderful little hints (not to mention OC names!). Knew I had to work in Merry and Pippin too, but I managed to avoid writing actual deaths for them. I don't think I could have done that. I certainly hope you got your hug or chocolate! Thank you so much for reviewing, you certainly made my day! (Oh, and sorry about the *very* long winded reply).
Grav · 29 February 2004 · Chapter 5: The Thain and the Took (Paladin Took)
I am kind of running out of ways to tell you that this is fabulous, that my heart is breaking, and that the salt from my tears in making my face hurt. I loved the letter (it was nice and Took-ish I thought), and the jab about Merry's children was very well done. You've managed to make this tear worthy and laugh worth all at the same time, which is, in my opinion, the point of Hobbit LotR fiction. Well done.
Grav · 29 February 2004 · Chapter 4: Master of Buckland (Saradoc Brandybuck)
Curses, once I've started I really can't stop. And I am out of kleenex, so I have to use toilet paper. Anyway, you've done this chapter excellently as well. The flashbacks in particular were well done, and Eowyn's letters added a whole new dimension to the tale. The emotional depth of this story continues to floor me.
Grav · 29 February 2004 · Chapter 3: Record Breaking (Hamfast Gamgee)
You'll have to excuse me while I get hold of myself. I always cry during hobbit stories, and I managed to hold out until “Sam, my boy, have I ever told you how proud you’ve made me?”, at which point I completely lost it. This was heartbreaking, and absolutely beautiful. The whole conversation between the Gaffer and Sam was amazing, and the end was fabulous. This chapter blew me out of the water, and I am almost afraid to go on, but I will because the story is beautiful, and you have written it so well.
Grav · 29 February 2004 · Chapter 2: Waters of the Brandywine (Drogo and Primula Baggins)
The first time I read LotR, I didn't really understand how far it was from Hobbiton to Buckland, and how much oler Frodo was to Merry, so I didn't really understand how very alone Frodo was at this point in his life. I understand it now, of course, although understanding doesn't make it any less heartbreaking. Anyway, my point is that you've captured it all here, from Frodo's exhibition of long sight, to Aunt Esmie. But the part I loved best was the hug at the end, mostly because I know that in a few more years, everything will turn out all right.
Grav · 29 February 2004 · Chapter 1: While There's Life (Bungo Baggins)
Oooh, where to start! First of all, I love the idea of this story, painful as I know it's going to be to read (I can only imagine what it was like to WRITE!). Also, I love the way you've woven in Bungo's proverbs. Wonderfully done. And the Gamgees? sigh. But I feel better knowing that Bag End got its children, even if they weren't quite Bagginses in name.
Grey Wonderer · 14 February 2004 · Chapter 9999: Last of the Ring-bearers
I waited to read this chapter until now as I was working up the nerve. I usually don't like stories about the last years of the Hobbits, but your other chapters convinced me to give this one a chance and I am very glad that I did. This was beautiful without being so depressing. As Merry and Pippin rode off together, I felt that they were on their way to an adventure together rather than riding to their deaths. It might have been a short adventure, but I believe that it was a good one. Thank you for this story.
Author's reply
Thank you for reading, even though you had your doubts - believe me, I had doubt about writing it. I don't want Pippin and Merry to die! I'm glad that you enjoyed it!
Iorhael · 10 February 2004 · Chapter 2: Waters of the Brandywine (Drogo and Primula Baggins)
Thank you for the touching story. *sigh* How I wish Frodo were really alive and there were really books about his background. Tolkien wrote so many things about the elves, but why not about the hobbits? *sniff* But that's okay as long as I have all the writers out there, including you, to reveal it.
Author's reply
It is a shame that there's so little about the hobbits, isn't it! I mean, the family trees and the prologue are all we really get! Thank you very much for your review!
Hai · 9 February 2004 · Chapter 9999: Last of the Ring-bearers
How sweet, you wrote it wonderfully and touched on everyone's emotions perfectly! I especially liked the one between Sam and Elanor, wonderful. Thank you for sharing these, they have been pleasant reads!
Author's reply
I'm so glad you enjoyed them! (I liked the Sam and Elanor story too, :P) Thank you for reading and leaving such lovely reviews!
Leah Beth · 9 February 2004 · Chapter 9999: Last of the Ring-bearers
What a wonderful ending! So sweet and very Hobbity. Thank you for sharing this amazing story. :)
Author's reply
Thanks very much! I was tossing up whether to post this one or not, but then I figured it made a far better ending the the series than Pippin's chapter!
shirebound · 9 February 2004 · Chapter 9999: Last of the Ring-bearers
What a lovely end to a wonderful story! I appreciate especially all the details -- the children's names, and the fact that Sam's son (Merry) is now Mayor, and Merry's son has his own nickname, and that perhaps Eomer hadn't written the letter himself, and... Thank you again for sharing this tale with us. It was a pleasure to read it.
Author's reply
And thank you for your wonderful reviews! I'm a huge sucker for details (no matter how obscure), and I always try to work them into my stories. I've noticed that you often do that in your stories, which is what I love about them! Once again, thank you for reading and reviewing!
Grey Wonderer · 30 January 2004 · Chapter 5: The Thain and the Took (Paladin Took)
I, personally, liked the letter. It would be nice if everyone found a lovely letter from a loved one that had gone before to cheer them on in life. Very nice chapter.
Author's reply
I liked *most* of the letter. Just the beginning got to me, but everyone else seemed to like it. Thanks for your reviews - still waiting for a new story from you! :P
Pearl Took · 30 January 2004 · Chapter 5: The Thain and the Took (Paladin Took)
Well, little sister, nicely done! I saw some influences and was complimented by them. The letter was great, not at all cheesy or tacky. It sounded like our Da. These really have all been wonderful stories. Your older sister, Pearl
Author's reply
I tried not to be influenced *too* much by your stories, but it's unavoidable really! The only issue I had with the letter was the beginning about "If you are reading this..." etc. But it seems to have gone down well! Thanks again for your feedback, dear sister!
calenore · 30 January 2004 · Chapter 5: The Thain and the Took (Paladin Took)
Oh, this is the sweetest chapter so far. I loved the letter Paladin left for Peregrin... that was a nice touch.
Author's reply
Well, I'm glad you liked it, because I was a bit worried about the beggining. "If you are reading this, it means I have died" just seemed so "Mission Impossible" or something! Thanks for your reviews! The feedback has been very useful.
Hai · 30 January 2004 · Chapter 5: The Thain and the Took (Paladin Took)
I hope falling from a pony was exciting enough for Paladin! I like how you made it like a tradition that all the Thains left a letter from their last Thain. Wonderful! You did a good job writing all of these and it looks like there is atleast one more chapter! Looking forward to ir!
Author's reply
Yes, I have my younger brother to thank for that idea! For some reason, I can imagine all of the Thains doing that, just to help out their successor. I should get started on the final chapter soon :)
Anso · 30 January 2004 · Chapter 5: The Thain and the Took (Paladin Took)
Thahk you for a well-written, lovely story. I just can´t seem to find words to describe it now, except to say it was beautiful and sad, and I wish there was more!
Author's reply
Well, there will be one more chapter. I have to write a story for Sam and Elanor, and for Faramir and Pippin, and Merry and his "son". Glad you enjoyed the story! :)
shirebound · 30 January 2004 · Chapter 5: The Thain and the Took (Paladin Took)
Awwww! I do love that letter, and the continuing of a wonderful and loving tradition.
Author's reply
Thank you! Like I said in the end A/N, I was a little worried about the letter, but everyone seems to have liked it!
Lyta Padfoot · 30 January 2004 · Chapter 5: The Thain and the Took (Paladin Took)
Paladin's letter with its touches of humor was wonderful. I hope that should I have children that I remember to write them something that will make them smile for after my passing.
Author's reply
I'm sure most people would love to do that! Almost like a time-capsule or something of the like. Glad you liked the story! :)
Grey Wonderer · 30 January 2004 · Chapter 4: Master of Buckland (Saradoc Brandybuck)
Very well done. I enjoyed the letters that Merry received. Very sad and very touching. I will wait for the next part as all of these have been so well done.
Author's reply
Well, you won't have to wait very long. I'll be posting Pippin's chapter as soon as I finish this reply! Glad you're enjoying the story - you know that I enjoy yours!
Leah Beth · 29 January 2004 · Chapter 4: Master of Buckland (Saradoc Brandybuck)
If that was less sad than the previous chapters, it certainly wasn't less wonderful. It's amazing how you can write about such sad occurences, yet still leave us with a little bit of hope at the end. But there is one thing that I wanted to see: Merry's gifts from Rohan. It would have been nice to see what Eomer and Eowyn would send to Merry. Still, even without that, it was a wonderfully written chapter. :)
Author's reply
As I said in another review-reply, I had no idea myself what Merry's friends from Rohan would have sent him. Shields, saddles, horns, stuff like that, I suppose. But I left it open so that people could make up their own minds as to what was sent. I can never write anything that's completely depressing - it seems to be against my nature (I am very Pippin-ish :P). Thanks very much for your wonderful feedback!
calenore · 29 January 2004 · Chapter 4: Master of Buckland (Saradoc Brandybuck)
What was in the box? Or will we find out later? Berilac COULD have found a more tactful way of breaking the news.... I'm glad Merry has people like Estella, Pippin and Eowyn there for him.
Author's reply
Well, to be honest, I don't know what's in the box either! I started to write what Merry saw, then I thought "What *would* Eowyn and Eomer send Merry?". So, I left it open ended so people could decide what was in there for themselves (probably lame, I know :P). And, yes, Berilac possibly could have thought of something a little better, but I figure, Saradoc was his uncle, so he'd be pretty upset about it too. And his own father would have died a couple of years earlier.
shirebound · 29 January 2004 · Chapter 4: Master of Buckland (Saradoc Brandybuck)
I can't really find words to tell you how impressed I am by this story. I feel as if I'm reading an extra Appendix that got left out of the Trilogy, and has somehow just been found. Truly extraordinary.
Author's reply
Thank you so much! I was so worried when I started writing these, but everyone has given me such wonderful feedback! It's probably not *quite* as good as an appendix though ;) Once again, thank you for your reviews - I will get around to finishing reading all of your stories some day! (I was reading them on ff.net under the user name of brachan90 - you might remember me :P)
Hai · 29 January 2004 · Chapter 4: Master of Buckland (Saradoc Brandybuck)
Poor Merry! You wrote his reaction superbly! You captured Merry's personality and past experiences perfectly! Looking forward to your last installment, thank you!
Author's reply
I've always had a bit of a soft spot for Master Meriadoc, and I loved the relationship he had with Theoden, Eowyn and Eomer. I always knew it would have to come into play in Merry's story, especially with that comment in the appendices about Eowyn and Eomer sending him gifts. And thank *you* for your lovely review. I am just about to post Pippin's story.
Pearl Took · 29 January 2004 · Chapter 4: Master of Buckland (Saradoc Brandybuck)
Ah, little sister, I'm in tears. This was so touching. So interesting, the blending of Saradoc and Theoden. Tears for our dear cousin Merry. I wonder if I'll be able to read your story for our dear father, us and our brother. I've not written Paladin's death, but I have written around it, and it's oft-times hard to read someone else's perspective. I don't think you have read either "As Good As You" or "The First Day" and now may not be able to at this point. Neither story is here at Arda, only Henneth Annun and FF.net. They are my stories of Pippin and Paladin having a father/son talk near to Paladin's death (As Good As You) and Pippin's first day as Thain (The First Day). I shall do my best to read your story, these have been so good, I would hate to miss our dear father's.
Author's reply
I have actually read those stories on ff.net (but must not have left a review for them). I enjoyed both of them, and have probably drawn a some inspiration from them. I hope you don't mind! And I also understand who difficult it can be to read another story about the same event in one of your own. I've have successfully managed to avoid most Faramir Took/Goldilocks Gamgee stories, until I have at least finished my own! Thank you so much for your reviews, big sister! It means a lot to me.