Caught Between the Light and Dark by Budgielover

Reviews (150)

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docmon · 29 October 2005 · Chapter 15: Chapter Fifteen

What a terrific story! I waited "patiently," (meaning anxiously) watching the updates, until this was finished to read it all at once, and I was well-rewarded! I couldn't put it down. Excellent building of tension, and surprises all over the place. And yet all the characters were well in-character, which was pleasing itself. Very well done!

Author's reply

How kind of you! When someone says she 'couldn't put it down,' that is an enormous compliment. Thank you so much, and I commend (and stand in awe of) your ability to hold off until the story was complete!

Pearl Took · 24 October 2005 · Chapter 15: Chapter Fifteen

applause, applause!! Well done! and from that wee bit of a comment in the movie. You're a wonder!

Author's reply

I guess that's why they call it a 'flash' of inspiration. I sometimes wish to just watch Our Movies, without drooling over every second. The books and the movies are so rich, so involving ... I can't imagine the joy of them ever fading.

Ariel · 23 October 2005 · Chapter 15: Chapter Fifteen

Bravo! Very good - engaging and still within canon (my favorite kind!). RL is really making its demands on me lately but it is really nice to see that some of us are still producing better and better stories. Thank you for this one!

Author's reply

*chuckles* I think you have a very flexible idea of canon, Ariel! All to the better, IMHO. I'm so glad you enjoyed the story!

pebbles66 · 22 October 2005 · Chapter 15: Chapter Fifteen

Oh, I'm so sorry it's over. What will I look forward to now? Thanks for another great fic!

Author's reply

This one may be over, Pebbles, but there are more on the way. I have to 'cleanse my palate' with a couple of humor pieces, then will start another angst/adventure/action piece, most probably entitled "Shadows of a Nameless Fear." Thank you for staying with this one for so long!

Larner · 22 October 2005 · Chapter 15: Chapter Fifteen

A wonderful and all to plausible side adventure for our dear folk. Frodo's plans, Boromir's and Merry's determination, Pippin's fortitude, Gandalf's wisdom, Aragorn's and Gimli's and Legolas's skill, and Bill's sensitivity and dependability are all well displayed. Loved the story, and hope to see more soon.

Author's reply

Thank you, Larner, and thank you for being so generous with your reviews. I'm glad you enjoyed the story. No fear - more seems to be on the way. I can't imagine ever stopping - there is just so much more to write!

GamgeeFest · 21 October 2005 · Chapter 15: Chapter Fifteen

It's over? Well, I greatly enjoyed the ride. This is a remarkable tale and full of suspense to the end. Marvellously done!

Author's reply

Thank you! Now for a couple of light, bright humor pieces (until the angst builds up again ... sort of like a pot bubbling). I'm so glad you enjoyed it.

Lindelea · 21 October 2005 · Chapter 15: Chapter Fifteen

Yikes! This is an unreview, rather, just to congratulate you on finishing, and to note that I am *way* behind on my reading list, but I've moved this one up to the top since you finished it... Looking forward to a good read. Unfortunately, it won't happen now as I'm on my way out the door and don't know when I'll get computer time again...

Author's reply

Thanks for the congratulations! This one took a loooonnngg time - I'm honored that so many people stuck with it so patiently. Now we all need a rest!

Jeodo Brandybuck · 21 October 2005 · Chapter 15: Chapter Fifteen

Wonderful! Wonderful! Wonderful! What a terrific story! Best line: "Peregrin, stop jumping up and down on those rocks—the Nazgûl is more to the left, anyway." (I wish I had written that!) Thanks for a thoroughly enjoyable read! Your story line was exciting, the pace was well-executed and the characterizations are right on! Jeodo Brandybuck

Author's reply

Thank you, Jeodo! I enjoyed that line about Pippin too, and the mental image that went with it. I could just see his gleeful little face. I'm so glad you enjoyed the story - it was fun (but exhausting) to write.

Andrea · 21 October 2005 · Chapter 15: Chapter Fifteen

A final WOW for this breathtaking story! The Warg attack took me completely by surprise. What a fight! What I liked most in this story was your wonderful characterization of Frodo. He's so brave here, and still he remains Frodo. Frodo was staring at the knife in Aragorn’s hands, horror writ deep on his face. “I … I carried that,” he murmured, “…handled it … fought with it. I could have…” This is absolutely Frodo. I think, he would have concluded the last sentence like this: "It could have hurt one of you." In my opinion, he's the bravest hobbit in the Shire, but, of course, he would stubbornly deny it ;-) Thank you, Budgielover! I'm looking forward to new stories.

Author's reply

Thank you, Andrea! And thank you for your words on 'my' Frodo - I love all the hobbits but I have loved Frodo the most since I first read the books, nearly 28 years ago. Since you mentioned new stories, I'll tell you what's in the works (though none are near completion): 1) "A Lesson on Hobbits V - Gandalf" 2)"Shadows of a Nameless Fear" and 3)"Walking Near the Edge." They should get finished one of these days.

shirebound · 21 October 2005 · Chapter 15: Chapter Fifteen

Aragorn tucked Pippin into a nest of blankets next to Merry, who yawned and turned his head slightly. Without waking in the least, Pippin inched closer and tucked his head under his cousin’s chin. Something in Merry’s expression relaxed as he slipped into a deeper state of sleep. Awwww. Another exciting tale, Budgie! I hope *everyone* can get some rest and sleep now.

Author's reply

Now why did I think you might enjoy that mental image? All we need are a few more blankets and a puppy... Actually, after all that, I owed them a little peace. And owe Frodo more. You are right - time for some rest.

girlofring · 21 October 2005 · Chapter 15: Chapter Fifteen

and we have closure. so...what's your plan for the Fellowship's next adventure?

Author's reply

Next? Well, I have "A Lesson on Hobbits V - Gandalf" in the works, and also a new angst story, "Shadows of a Nameless Fear." And a largely humor piece of three chapters so far, "Walking Near the Edge." Honestly, it's a shame that RL gets in the way so much... :)

Breon Briarwood · 21 October 2005 · Chapter 15: Chapter Fifteen

OMG! I thought it was going to be a rather gentle ending (get out of the hole and run) then all of a sudden... WHAM! *shivers* Well done!

Author's reply

Thank you! I had hoped to lull the reader into thinking the last chapter would just be 'typing up loose ends' and closing the story... So your WHAM! was exactly what I was trying to achieve. Thanks!

GamgeeFest · 16 October 2005 · Chapter 14: Chapter Fourteen

Frodo is so smart! It's not often he takes charge like that, but when he does it's usually for the best. The Witch King will have a time of it freeing himself from that rubble, and the Fellowship will be far away by the time that happens. Can't wait for more. :)

Author's reply

Frodo truly is often underestimated. Part of being a hobbit, I suppose. I find it a positive joy to see him as the leader of the Fellowship. I'm so glad you feel the same way!

GamgeeFest · 15 October 2005 · Chapter 13: Chapter Thirteen

So Gandalf and co. were already there! How wonderful. Another amazing and intense battle scene, quite unlike any I've seen so far. To use the goblins own tools against them was a brilliant idea. I greatly anticipate the fight with the Ringwraith. :) I wonder what Boromir, Frodo and Merry are making of all the commotion up above.

Pearl Took · 12 October 2005 · Chapter 14: Chapter Fourteen

WOO HOO!! All Right!! but . . . now how do the others get out? I will try to wait patiently for the next installment :) I love Pippin yelling like a banshee, hehehehe so very Celtic!

Author's reply

*giggle* I have this mental image of Legolas holding him at arm's length while his short little legs just churn ... sort of like a cartoon, I suppose. It might take him a moment to notice he isn't moving.

Andrea · 12 October 2005 · Chapter 14: Chapter Fourteen

Again, I can think of no better word to describe my feelings: WOW!!! I simply adore your Frodo and his marvelous plan! It takes a lot of courage to face the Nazgul and even provoke him! That's what he did, when he confronted him with his failures! I'm really impressed. Thank you, Budgielover!

Author's reply

'My' Frodo and I both thank you for your kind review. This plot took a lot of planning and working out details, and I very much appreciate it when a reader recognizes that and takes the time to tell me how much she is enjoying the story.

mirthor · 12 October 2005 · Chapter 14: Chapter Fourteen

Exciting chapter! I know I've only reviewed once or twice - I apologize - but I have been reading & looking forward to each update of your wonderful tale. Thanks :)

Author's reply

I'm so glad you are enjoying this story. I am honored. Please - don't apologize! I appreciate you letting me know that the story gives you something to look forward to.

shirebound · 12 October 2005 · Chapter 14: Chapter Fourteen

Wow! (she said yet again) Budgie Frodo is a genius! That was truly inspired.

Author's reply

'My' Frodo informed me that he had had enough of being rescued for a while, so this fic was turn-about - he got to rescue everyone else. Don't you just love him?

girlofring · 12 October 2005 · Chapter 14: Chapter Fourteen

okay...Now for the last chapter. Merry is doing better thank goodness and I hope Pippin comes down off the meds that Aragorn gave him soon. Frodo sure is clever and glad that Gandalf knew it too.

Author's reply

Only you would use the term 'meds!' *giggle*

Elwen · 12 October 2005 · Chapter 14: Chapter Fourteen

As always, you weave a spell of tension so well. I was biting my nails reading this chapter.

Author's reply

Thank you so much! I can't imagine that anyone could enjoy reading my fics as much as I enjoy writing them, but to be told that they are being enjoyed (I hope you meant that!) makes the work worth it.

Dreamflower · 12 October 2005 · Chapter 14: Chapter Fourteen

Budgie, I just *ADORE* Frodo in this one! From the brave way he stands by Merry, and then sits with him, calling him "Merry-lad" to his absolutely brilliant plan to get them all away from the Nazgul. I love the way he instantly recognized Pippin's shriek, the way that Pippin and Gandalf were the first to realize he had a plan, and then the way Gimli finished things off. *WOW!!!* *whoosh*breathes now*

Author's reply

Thank you so much for mentioning what you liked about this fic - I often wonder if I am making a fic too complex with all the details and actions. To know that such work is recognized and appreciated makes it worth it.

eiluj · 12 October 2005 · Chapter 14: Chapter Fourteen

Whew!

Author's reply

Short and to the point! (much like Frodo, though he wouldn't appreciate the comparison)

Larner · 11 October 2005 · Chapter 14: Chapter Fourteen

Oh, EXCELLENT plan indeed! I love it! Frodo, master of strategy, aided by cousin, warg, and dwarf! LOVE it! So well planned!

Author's reply

Frodo rarely seems to get enough credit in fics, does he? After all the horrible things I have done to him, I felt I owed him a chance to be a hero. Which he certainly has seized in this fic!

Larner · 11 October 2005 · Chapter 13: Chapter Thirteen

The wraith braved the fire, though he himself wasn't wielding it? Interesting! Lovely cliffhanger here! Now, how is Frodo going to top this? Glad he got out!

Author's reply

You'll enjoy a line of Frodo's concerning the Ringwraith in Chapter 14 - about 'the murder of any number of enemies.' And you hit exactly on the reason this particular fic took so long to finish - each chapter had to top the last. When this one is done, I might just take a vacation... :D

Ariel · 10 October 2005 · Chapter 13: Chapter Thirteen

*Munches her popcorn furiously* Oh, you CAN'T leave us here!!! Argh! How on earth are they going to get out (which I also wondered when they were facing all those orcs) of this one? What happened to Merry? Gandalf HAS to be more powerful than a ringwraith, hasn't he? *bites nails* Another action packed, edge-of-your-seat chapter, Budgie! Bravo again!

Author's reply

I just have to laugh at the mental picture you have created! All you left out was the bulging eyes. Seriously, I am delighted and honored that you are enjoying this fic so much. (And don't worry ... Chapter 14 will answer some of your questions. ;D )