Eruviluieth
· 16 January 2005
· Chapter 9999: Roses: The Untold Story
Another wonderful ending! One is hard enough, but you've managed two. I'm not really a fan of "Gandalf-come-fix-everything," but it was lovely to see what Rosebud's life might have been. I love the ent-draught idea - a Pippin classic. It's a shame she didn't get a brother in this one, but she has more than enough cousins to make up for it, and maybe Faramir is simply yet to come... It doesn't take much to fall in love with Rosebud, just words on a page telling her story will do the trick. Thanks again for sharing. Farewell, Rosebud, I'll miss hearing more about you.
Author's reply
Thank you for reading Roses! I'm not familiar with any other story that has Gandalf come fix everything, but as this was an extrememly AU story, I thought it wouldn't hurt to use his Maian "powers" or his "somewhat direct link" to the One...thanks for indulging an old lady! Well...I'm not *that* old....
As for a brother, I did write in Faramir--I just didn't call him by name like I did in the original ending. Yes, her lovely cousins do come in handy. ;-) Thanks again for reading!
Pippinfan
Pearl Took
· 16 January 2005
· Chapter 9999: Roses: The Untold Story
*SIGH* A wonderful ending, as was the other one, though each in their own way. You have grown so much with your writing, it has become as wonderful as you!! God Bless, my dear friend :)
Author's reply
Wow...and a huge thank you to my mentor and dear friend. You've taught me everything I know! :-) Thank you so much for all your encouragement, guidance, being straighforward with your views--what would work and what wouldn't work. Thank you for being a friend. :-) God Bless you, too!
Pippinfan
Connie B.
· 16 January 2005
· Chapter 9999: Roses: The Untold Story
That was a nice alternate ending, but I'm glad that's not how it really happened. I know that probably sounds morbid, but it true. Not every story has a happy ending. Gandalf couldn't always come to their rescue. It just would not have been right to make Rosebud a part of Pippin's future family. I kind of feel like I'm doing her a disservice, but that's just how I feel.
I loved this story for so many reasons. It was sweet, sad, fuuny, maddening all in one, sometimes all at once. I can't even think of all I want to say. There was just so much here.
Thanks for this variant on the end, but I'll keep the first ending.
Thanks.
Connie B.
Author's reply
LOL...no, you're not morbid. But yes, my own favorite ending is the first one, too--after all, that was the *original* plan. I was just indulging my own fancy for Rosebud. Thanks, Connie, for reading this "other" ending. Take care--and keep in touch!
Pippinfan
Samwisegirl12 - final review *sob*
· 16 January 2005
· Chapter 9999: Roses: The Untold Story
yay! Rosebud LIIIIVEEEES! Yeah .. I can see how an older (try ancient) person like Gandalf might ... erm .. not approve of Pippin's situation, but I'm glad he helped anyways!
Rosebud grew up to be a lovely lass, I'm glad she survived this time ;)
"and anyone who came to know her couldn't help but love her. Even me." aww.... yes, I love her too!
Thanks again soo much for this story. I have very much enjoyed following it - there's something about following a fic that is so great and you feel like a part of it in a way :)
Thanks for sharing this with us!
I'll send one last kiss to my dear dear Rosebud ... love you honey *sniff*
and a BIG kiss and hug to you - the incredible author. Keep it up :)
~ swg ~
Author's reply
Yes, you are--I feel all the readers have been a major part of this story. I did fall in love with my own OC in spite of advice to avoid it! I still felt compelled to write this "other" ending. Big hug back at ya...thanks for reading Roses. :-)
Pippinfan
Lavender Took
· 16 January 2005
· Chapter 9999: Roses: The Untold Story
Wow. Just wow. I haven't reviewed this story before, but I've been following it along. I really, really enjoyed it, especially the alternate ending. I loved how you incorporated Pippin's dream about Rosebud into this chapter. Thanks for sharing this story. Keep Writing! :)
~L~
Author's reply
Hullo Lavender Took! I am glad you enjoyed this "other" ending! Thanks for reading!
Pippinfan
Rosie-Ann
· 15 January 2005
· Chapter 52: Full Circle
I've shed so many tears reading this story...to think that when I stumbled across it there were only 10 chapters! I will forever hold Rosebud and Lilas in my heart as true parts of Pippin's life - I can imagine it no other way now. So much pain this young Took has gone through, but in the end, he's still Pippin.
Terry, it was beautiful. I love it like...like nothing I can readily describe. Your story, your characters...they wormed their way into my heart even though I tried not to let them. You are an amazing author, and I am proud to say I know you (if only online).
I love you very much, you author, you.
~Rosie
Author's reply
And I'm glad you stumbled across it! Wow...thank you for the heartfelt response. Online, offline...what does it matter? I've made quite a few online friends while writing this tale, and I love them all! I hope to stay in touch with everyone while working on/reading other tales. Thanks for reading Roses--take care.
Pippinfan
melilot hill
· 11 January 2005
· Chapter 52: Full Circle
This was such a beautiful, touching story! And a loved the ending :)
Author's reply
Thank you! I am truly glad you enjoyed this ending. :-) Thanks for reading Roses!
Pippinfan
Pervinca
· 10 January 2005
· Chapter 52: Full Circle
Such a touching story - I just keep reminding myself that I was the original inspiration for it :P It was nice to see Pippin telling Faramir about his sister, and the way in which you did not directly refer to Diamond by name. A clever touch.
You handled this difficult content extremely well, you should be very proud!
- Pervinca (Rosebud's doting Auntie :P)
Author's reply
To Rosebud's doting Auntie: (LOL)
Yes, you were--and thank you for allowing me that inspiration! I can't thank you enough--I really enjoyed writing this tale. Thank you for all your encouragement and support, and thanks for reading Roses!
Pippinfan
Meldewen Ilce
· 9 January 2005
· Chapter 52: Full Circle
*wipes away the tears running down her cheeks*
What an absolutely, stunningly beautiful ending, my dear! It really does bring things full circle!
I have laughed and cried and cried so much during this story and I want to say THANK YOU so much!
Favorite scenes where Pippin's conversation with Merry: I am glad he said what he did to him as I agree, Merry was as a second father to Rosebud, I mean he loved her as though she were his own. I am glad that these two grieving fathers will be there to help one another get one with living their lives!
I also loved the dream goodbye with Rosebud - oh gosh I am misty eyed thinking about it now. It was so lovely and sad and bittersweet, yet I am so glad that Pippin got to see his beloved little lass one more time before she left his life forever. I know they'll meet again but it is also a comfort to think that Frodo will get to see Rosebud and be with her until her Papa comes to join them in that far green country...
I am still thinking of writing my own little fic based off of this story... I am glad that you had Pippin and Merry move to Crickhollow as that's where my fic will take place if and when I write it...
Thank you so much again for such a touching story!
Author's reply
Wow...you're welcome! (smiles) Thanks for all your encouraging responses. Please do write that lovely fic! I'll be here to read it. ;-) Thanks for reading Roses! Take care.
Pippinfan
Pearl Took
· 9 January 2005
· Chapter 52: Full Circle
Excellent, most excellent - the entire tale has been wonderful!! Thank you so much for sharing this marvelous story. Applause Applause Bravo!!
Author's reply
It's been a pleasure, Pearl--this story got off the ground largely with your help, so take a bow yourself! Thanks for reading Roses. :-)
Pippinfan
Beruthiel
· 9 January 2005
· Chapter 52: Full Circle
Wow. Magnificent story. This time I really am speechless.
This will definitely be a favourite of mine for a long time. Can't believe it's over!
Author's reply
Thanks, Beruthiel--and I am speechless as well with the favorable response for the story as a whole. I'm looking forward to your sequel!
Pippinfan
Eruviluieth
· 9 January 2005
· Chapter 52: Full Circle
Excellent ending. You did a wonderful job bringing everything full circle. It's good to see Pippin recovering and being able to help Merry accept and get over his grief. I loved his "goodbye" dream with Rosebud and the thought that Frodo will be her friend on the other side. And Faramir loves his little sister, even if he's a little unsure of the details - it's just too sweet. What's this I hear about alternate endings and sequels? Much as I love this ending and think it truly completes the story, I am interested in hearing more about this story. Diamond's perspective on a widower suitor and husband is a promising direction. Thanks for sharing Roses, hope to see more somewhere.
Author's reply
Thank you for the compliments...and thank you for reading Roses. :-)
Pippinfan
Connie B.
· 9 January 2005
· Chapter 52: Full Circle
I can't believe it's over. This has been an incredible ride. This story is definitely on my top-ten list.
You got me crying again. If something hadn't distracted me, I'd have probably been a blubbering puddle on the floor. Pippin and Merry losing both Frodo and Rosebud within a few months was almost too much. I'm glad they had each other to hang on to, as well as Merry's dad to help them cope.
I'm really looking forward to your alternate chapter. I'm also curious to see what your next story will be. You are going to do something else, right?
Hope you get some more online time soon.
Thanks again for a "way cool" story.
Connie B.
Author's reply
*sniff* I can't believe it, either. It's been such a huge part of my life this past year. Well...we can't have a blubbering puddle, can we? ;-) Here--have a hanky--on me. When I was writing the rest of the scene, I realized that Frodo, Bilbo, and the gang had all left for the Undying Lands...*gasp* on my birthday! I had to at least make a passing reference to such a huge milestone in JRRT's timeline. Cool! At least I know of ONE person (LOL) who'll be reading the alternate ending!
Yes, I'll be working on some projects that have been sitting on the backburner for roughly six months or more. I want to be a reader for a wee bit to clear my head and sink into character for these next tales--they're not AU, btw. These tales will be part of my "regular" universe.
Thank *you*, Connie--for being such a faithful reader and reviewer; and thank you for letting me use that bit of inspiration for "Pippin's Day Out"! Please don't be a stranger!:-) Take care, and thank you so much for reading Roses. *sniff*
Pippinfan
Aewyn
· 9 January 2005
· Chapter 52: Full Circle
At first I was hesitant to read this fic.. it felt a little too AU for my tastes, but then one day around chapter 12 I decided to give it a try. And I am so happy I did. I have laughed and cried together with Pippin throughout the story like I never have done before... All characters have been so alive and so true to the spirit of Tolkien that I've been mesmerized.
Thank you so very much for giving me the chance to read such a wonderful tale.
Love, Aewyn
Author's reply
Wow...thank you! Hullo, Aewyn! I'm glad you gave Roses a whirl, too. I've done some growing right alongside Pippin this past year, gone through some drastic changes, so I'm very attached to this story and it's characters; I suppose I always will be. Thanks so much for reading Roses! :-)
Pippinfan
pipspebble
· 9 January 2005
· Chapter 52: Full Circle
What a wonderful, lovely, angsty, PERFECT ending to this hauntingly beautiful tale! I can't thank you enough for this increcible story. You have exceeded even my lofty expectations! I can honestly say I have loved each and every word of it. Bravo!
Author's reply
*blushing* Thank you, pipspebble...and I can't thank you enough for reading it! I've really enjoyed your encouraging responses, and am so glad you were here all the way through to the end--er, semi-end. Now *I* get to play reader for just a bit--just so I can clear my head a little and forge on with other stories. Huge hug and huge thank you for reading Roses! :-)
Pippinfan
Grey Wonderer
· 9 January 2005
· Chapter 52: Full Circle
Simply lovely. Enjoyed the scene between Pippin and Merry very much.
Author's reply
Thanks, Grey Wonderer. For as much as I like the dream sequences, I do like even more how much these two love each other--friendship-wise. Thank you for reading Roses. :-)
Pippinfan
Samwisegirl12
· 9 January 2005
· Chapter 52: Full Circle
aww... thanks for the loverly ending! Pip was able to move on .. so sweet that he was telling lil Faramir.
And then seeing Rosebud before she went into the trees .. *sniff* I love that part of the story *sniff* the trees...
Thank you for a great story! It's been a fun ride, please keep writing, you've got a lot of talent!
Hugs and Kisses!
~ swg ~
Author's reply
Thank you, Samwisegirl! I had a fun ride writing this tale--I'm glad you enjoyed it. Thank you for reading Roses.
Pippinfan
FrodoBaggins_88
· 2 January 2005
· Chapter 35: Uncertainties
*wipes tear* That was so sad!
Author's reply
Yes, it was. If it helps--I cried, too. Yep. My eyes tear up when I write these sad chapters--it's part of getting into character. Thank you so much for reading Roses!
Pippinfan
FrodoBaggins_88
· 2 January 2005
· Chapter 33: Parenthood
Your writing is excellent, and I am enjoying this story, but may I suggest putting in scene breaks? It would make it seem less jumpy and easier to follow. Keep up the good work!
Author's reply
LOL...yes, I was putting them in at first, shortly thereafter a friend suggested otherwise. I started putting them back in about ten chapters ago (ch. 40 or so) because I feel the same as you. Not to mention that I don't like stretching an idea for the mere sake of fitting it in as an entire chapter when the "problem" takes care of itself in a few paragraphs. Also, I post at both Stories of Arda *and* fanfiction.net--and about halfway through the story their system stopped using asterisks. I had to quickly devise up another method for scene breaks. I will tell you this: I am always amazed when folks compliment the story--or my writing. I'm astonished. A heartfelt thank you. :-)
Pippinfan
FrodoBaggins_88
· 31 December 2004
· Chapter 18: A Little Help From My Friends
This shall have to be where I stop today. Just wanted to say that your story is well-written. Mixtures of emotions throughout it -- happy, sad, worried, amused, to name a few. Keep it up! :)
Author's reply
Thank you--glad to see you reading it again today!
Pippinfan
FrodoBaggins_88
· 31 December 2004
· Chapter 13: Providence
This was so sweet, Pippinfan. :) I enjoyed it ever so much. Tears threatened to spill towards the end. You write so well. I'm glad Meldewen recommended this. THanks for sharing.
Author's reply
Oops--spoke too soon, didn't I? (You *are* Meldewen's friend!) Welcome, FrodoBaggins_88! The mood lightens a bit as you read on, but there are undercurrents of sadness for the situation they both got themselves into. Thank *you* for reading. :-)
Pippinfan
pipspebble
· 31 December 2004
· Chapter 51: Reaching Out
Ahhh, that's our hobbitses! I love how you have Saradoc helping Pippin, Pippin helping Merry, Merry helping Pippin. I'm glad you spared us the actual moment of Rosebud's death, and the ending to the last chapter was utter perfection. This is such a lovely, if angst-filled story, and I just adore it. It's going to be rather hard to see it end. You should be very proud of the job you've done.
Author's reply
As Merry said, "Thats what friends are for." Yes...I could barely write what I did--I fell in love with that wee baby, so I simply couldn't write anything in detail--it would have broke my heart to write it.
Wow...I'm genuinely amazed at the nice things being said. You're wonderful, pips--thank you for all your encouragement and loving support. Thanks for reading Roses!
Pippinfan
FrodoBaggins_88
· 31 December 2004
· Chapter 4: The Unexpected
Wow. You have me in shock. I agree that Pippin was abstinant until marriage, but you've made this somehow seem real.
Author's reply
Thank you--yes, this Pippin is a real departure from my "real" Pippin. Everything else is pretty much in place as far as his family and friends go...with a few A/U twists and turns, but for the most part accurate. You're Meldewen's friend, aren't you? Cool!
Pippinfan
Grey Wonderer
· 30 December 2004
· Chapter 51: Reaching Out
I loved the way that in spite of being a departure from your regular story-line, Merry and Saradoc's experiences in your earlier stories come into play here. I think it did Saradoc a world of good to help Pippin through this. It was, in a way, a sort of second chance for him. I was glad to see Merry making his way through his own grief by the end of this chapter and even more relieved that he was able to get Pippin moving. Now, about these mystery chapters, what have you got up your sleeve this time? I will be expecting more of this one soon, oh busy person that you are. Wonderful chapter!
Author's reply
Hullo, Grey Wonderer! Yes--I felt that Pippin, going through such tremendous grief, would close himself off to some degree, but it would be far too sad if he ended up like Saradoc...so I indeed brought in one of my storylines from my regular "universe". Just as you said, I saw there was had redemptive value between Saradoc and Merry...and in him helping his nephew.
These mystery chapter...hehehe...there is one more of *this* timeline, then I'll have another chapter ready that has yet...another timeline. You'll be surprised, I hope. :-)
Pippinfan
Happy New Year!
Samwisegirl12, who is - well, you know the rest! ;)
· 30 December 2004
· Chapter 51: Reaching Out
Thank you for another beeautiful chapter. I can't believe it's almost over.
I was just about in tears ... so sad that Pippin was closing himself off like that! He has ... "so much to do and to be!" his "part in this tale must go on"
*sniff*
Oh, and btw, I don't care that its AU - it's a beautifully written and wonderfully sad and bittersweet story, written by a fabulous author with quite the knack for writing hobbits in particular.
Please keep writing! :)
~ swg ~
Author's reply
LOL...hello Samwisegirl12! I felt anyone going through this sort of grief would close themselves off to some extent...for a period. Yet we all know deep inside Pippin couldn't do that for long...not without a bit of help though. Thank you for reading Roses, and for taking the time to leave a kind response such as this. :-)
Pippinfan