Reviews (633)

KathyG · 22 June 2020 · Chapter 60: Tying Up Loose Ends

I see you've only posted a few stories here on SoA, mostly the "falling-into-Middle-earth" stories that you've created. (I wouldn't want to be in Penny's shoes, and that's a fact! =)) You could post the rest of the Tolkien fanfiction you've written here, too, you know! You'd get more readers that way. Any chance you'll write and post any more Tolkien fanfiction in the future? Since July, 2018, Dreamflower and I have been posting a "falling-into-Middle-earth" story that I thought of quite a while back. It's posted here on SoA, too. Ours is titled "An Unexpected Adventure."

mystarlight · 4 August 2018 · Chapter 1: Dulce Et Decorum Est

I am mesmerized by your story. Thank you!!!

Queen Galadriel · 26 August 2011 · Chapter 60: Tying Up Loose Ends

Dear Boz4PM, I can't believe I didn't review this before! I was a little embarrassed to discover that actually, as this must be the third, fourth, or maybe even fifth time I've read both of your marvelous Penny stories. Thank you for two such wonderful, thoughtful and thought-provoking, marvelously detailed, and vibrantly human stories of what a real Middle-earth experience might be like. Your writing is superb, and your characters, whether they are Ooriginals or borrowed from Tolkien, simply leap off the page, they are so full of life. This comment is probably more appropriate for "Don't Panic," but as I'm leaving one monster review, I'll put it here. i want to especially compliment you on the way you portrayed Penny's slow mastery of Sindarin and beginnings in Westron, without actually needing many Sindarin words. In fact, I originally started rereading these stories a few days ago because I'm writing an original one and have a character who is in just such a predicament as Penny, needing to learn an entirely new language, and I was in search of good ways to show that without actually having to invent much if any of her own obscure native tongue. I was wonderfully inspired, and, once again, simply couldn't stop reading once I'd started, causing my poor story to be sadly neglected! :D I also love the gradual formation and growth of Penny and Halladan's relationship through shared pain and shared healing, and the beautiful love story that came from it - delightfully true to reality, just like the rest of the story. I'm sure this won't be the last time I read this series. Thank you, thank you, for an epic tale that can satisfy my Tolkien craving and is not such a massive undertaking, and is, in many ways, more real and alive!

ana · 1 March 2011 · Chapter 60: Tying Up Loose Ends

Wow, this was quite a journey! I loved it and I thank you for it.

Mum's the Word · 1 August 2009 · Chapter 52: Oil on Troubled Waters

I'm rereading your wonderful story for the umpteenth time. I just wanted to stop here to say again, dear friend, how beautiful and moving your descriptions are. I should have taken the time to remark on each one, but these two stand out in this chapter: "She glowed in the starlight, her hair like liquid gold. It almost took your breath away to look at her." "In her mind’s eye, almost as if Galadriel were painting it within her mind, she spun above the world, looking down upon it and seeing how all within it were so many ants or pieces on a chessboard, and yet here and there shone a bright light, a constant who barely moved while all around them scurried hither and yon, stopped abruptly or started to move, stirring into life." "Galadriel’s lips might have been moving, she could not be sure, but if they were she heard no sound, only a slight breeze stirring the leaves above them, and it seemed as if, for the merest moment, the starlight glimmered a little brighter in Galadriel’s hair and glinted off the jewels in her skirts." "Wild country stirred their blood, and the scent of home was in the wind." You have such a gift, dear Boz, and I thank you for sharing it with us. Even after so many readings, your story still moves me to tears in many places! Indeed, after certain passages like the exchange between Penny and Galadriel in this chapter, I find myself smiling, but then find tears on my cheeks. Thank you again for Penny's excellent story! Hugs and continued blessings, Mum

Bronwynferchdai · 12 March 2009 · Chapter 60: Tying Up Loose Ends

So . . . I think you may've ruined me. This is not the fandom I usually read and certainly not the one I write, but I've spent the past three days reading "Don't Panic!" and "Okay, Now Panic!" and I cannot tell you how much I enjoyed them. There were moments when, admittedly, I found myself rolling my eyes and grumbling "Just get ON with it already!" at a character, but that is to be expected and the build was always worth the wait. Not that I waited long, really. So, honestly, just thanks ever so for writing it because I rather enjoyed reading it. I'd expound for a while, but my timer's beeping so I have to go rescue my pies before they burn. Thank you again, Bronwyn

midnightdusk · 27 February 2009 · Chapter 60: Tying Up Loose Ends

Two days ago I was embarrassingly searching for decent Harry Potter fan fiction (although i did not come across any), when I found a few people recommending some random LOTR fic. I looked at it, i looked a little more, and then i decent to try and read it. What then happened was two days of me lying on my bed reading both of the Penny fics. Two Days. I read them in Two Days. I got no sleep. I didn't move off my butt at all. If i put on lots of weight from this, then it is your fault! I have been reading fan fiction for a very long time now, and i have to say that no other story has been better than yours. You didn't rush your story, all of the characters had completely different personalities and you stuck to them, as well. It made me squeal, it made me cry, it was shocking and beautiful and very real. It was incredibly well written and I am so pleased them a found something on fan fiction that proves to me WHY i read fan fiction. By the way, I'm now stalking you to find out more about this amazing person who wrote these stories. Thank you!!!

Maribel · 13 February 2009 · Chapter 60: Tying Up Loose Ends

Oh, Boz, I am such a bad, bad, reader. I've been following this starting from Don't Panic! since mid-last-year (I even loaded it onto my phone so I could read it on buses and trains - got some weird looks from people reading over my shoulder!) and I have never once reviewed. I know reviewing is supposed to be purely obligatory but then again everyone knows that nice reviews and the subsequent warm, fuzzy feeling are often great motivators for writers. So, anyway, sorry! :( Over the years the protagonists of most GFIME fics have evolved into an alien species of eternally-teenage girl: perfectly adapted to life in Middle-Earth, more fluent in Sindarin and Quenya than the Elves themselves, able to induce falling-in-love in any named character within five minutes of meeting, and of course, carry an endless supply of foundation and lipstick with them in their magical handbags. Unfortunately I'm guilty of reading one (or) two of these in the infancy of my LOTR (etc.) obsession myself. I will never quite be the same again when I hear the words "OC" and "Legolas" in the same sentence. So, anyway, I'd like to thank you as everyone else has done for writing such an interesting fanfic! It was really refreshing to see this kind of story written from the point of view of a modern woman. Although at some points I was a bit bored (indeed I think there was more than one chapter where I read the first and last two paragraphs and counted it as 'read') it was lovely to see how you imagined all the places in Middle-Earth. Especially delightful were the descriptions of day-to-day life, as well as the less majestic or rarely-seen facets of Tolkien's world. I think it's really brilliant how you stuck through this fic and wrote such a whopping number of chapters without losing (too much) steam. The many references (or were they anecdotes?) to Brit life were also an added bonus, as I have this *thing* about England (London in particular - it's probably just the novels talking...) and it was nice to see that included. Well done! And don't forget about Moments of Panic!

Aiwen · 3 January 2009 · Chapter 60: Tying Up Loose Ends

I really like the ending of this story. Bringing the circle round and closing it like that was most eloquent. Beautifully done, and kudos for hanging on to the end. Not easy to do with the story this long.

Kathy_SFF · 6 November 2008 · Chapter 60: Tying Up Loose Ends

I know I haven't reviewed as often as I should have, but I have faithfully read every chapter (although not in a timely manner). I really loved your story. Penny became part of the story without interfering with the interactions of the cannon characters. I especially loved how you developed the relationship between Penny and Halladan (sp). I also loved how "Tying Up Loose Ends" depicted their relationship as a very REAL "happily every after", complete with the love they had for eachother but also with the occasional fight and night in the barn or on the couch. Overall A+.

Aiwen · 1 November 2008 · Chapter 21: The Shield of Achilles

This is beautifully done. The amount of detail and effort that you have put into this fake is extremely obvious, and it makes all the difference in telling a "girl falls into Arda fic". I normally don't read them, but this one was recommended to me by a friend and it has proved every bit as good as she told me. Well done!

BKB · 31 October 2008 · Chapter 60: Tying Up Loose Ends

These stories have been quite the best fanfic that I have read in a very long time! You have given me several hours great pleasure. Since language and knowledge are two elvish fortes, I think that gossip is a very natural "vice" for them. Your handling of Penny's and Halladan's growing friendship and intimacy feels very realistic since it develops out of the concern each has for the grave emotional problem that the other is facing. Thank you very much! Sincerely, BKB

obsidianj · 1 October 2008 · Chapter 60: Tying Up Loose Ends

*Big Sigh* This is a satisfying ending to the story. Luckily, I could read the last chapters in one go. The storyline of Halladan and Penny came to a satisfying conclusion, the one I was hoping for. In true romance tradition, she now refused him, but all ends well. That chapter got me teary-eyed. So, is Penny caught in a timewarp a la Babylon 5, the TV series? It seems so from the last paragraphs... Great story!

Paladin1420 · 22 September 2008 · Chapter 60: Tying Up Loose Ends

Congratulations, you write faster than I read , but I finally caught up with you. Aside from a compelling storyline, and wonderful, believable characters, I’m amazed at how realistically you’ve described Middle Earth. It’s as if you’ve been there… I've enjoyed this story thoroughly and while I love the way it ended, I’m sorry that it had to. Anyone want to write a Penny/Panic fanfic? Thank you again for two fantastic fics. Paladin1420

Abra Ahab · 20 September 2008 · Chapter 60: Tying Up Loose Ends

Thank you so much for writing this story - I am certain that no one could have done it better. I think it ended perfectly, with us filling in the blanks in our own minds the kinds of spats, defiant children, and botched meals that must have made up the Penny/Halladan household! You tied everything up really well, and again I thank you for giving us all a believable world to, vicariously through Penny, test our 21st century meddle in. You've done such a good job in fleshing out Tolkein's characters - it was not hard to see Mireth or Eleniel as true friends, or certain ellith as protective, teasing big brothers. I can't imagine the amount of research and thought you put into each chapter to ensure that your story remained canon. Thanks again! This story (well, novel, practically) has been a joy to read and reread! I look forward to reading each drabble, ficlet and story you post in the future!

Miss · 16 September 2008 · Chapter 60: Tying Up Loose Ends

And yes, you are right. It does seem a little bit a fast-ending. I was like "what"! Truthfully, this ending left me a bit empthy. You explained your reasons very well, I accept and respect that. But more importantly, thank you for the BEST girl-goes to ME- story! And I mean every word of it. God bless you, and keep your talent alive! Miss

Fantasia · 16 September 2008 · Chapter 60: Tying Up Loose Ends

Boz, I just want to tell you how much I've enjoyed this fic, actually both fics. It has been a wonderful journey and I loved every chapter, all of them. You are an amazing writer and if you ever decide to write an original novel or stories, be sure that I will be one of your fans. I'll miss Penny & Co. and I'm grateful that ou will have Moments of Panic to fill out the gaps, I really wanted a little more about their courtship (Penny & Halladan). The last chapter was great, just enough information to figure out their live together. I have a question: Does Faelon and family know about Penny's past? How to explain them her lack of knowledge? So Halladan will be quite Faramir but in the North Kingdom? I just will love to see Penny in Gondor again, with her new status and husband... This is a great story, and I’ll repeat the same that other had already said, you are one of the best LOTR fanfiction writers ever. Thanks again and I'll look forward for your stories. Fantasia

Ainu Laire · 16 September 2008 · Chapter 60: Tying Up Loose Ends

Congratulations with the completion of this tale. What a ride. I haven't been the most faithful reviewer, but do know that I enjoyed it... you made it one of the most canonical fics I've ever read, Penny's presence there or not. I still remember the huge gap between those two chapters. Very glad you picked it up again. Again, congratulations. This is, frankly put, quite a feat.

Lindelea · 15 September 2008 · Chapter 59: So It Ends

To coin a phrase... “YES!” he shouted. “AT LAST! HA!”

bookworm · 14 September 2008 · Chapter 60: Tying Up Loose Ends

I just realised, I've read & enjoyed this entire series and never left a review~ *is guilty* Thankyou so much for such an enjoyable story, I've truly enjoyed the journey! (Also, Penny becomes her own ancestor? LOL, how's that for a time paradox)

VixenMage · 14 September 2008 · Chapter 60: Tying Up Loose Ends

(hopefully you know who I am. :D) Excellent, excellent job, both on this chapter and the one before it (which I only got to just now). And, for that matter, on the entire 'fic, start to finish! I don't think there was a single chapter that didn't completely yank me in from the start. Excellent job-- I don't think I can say that enough, and there really isn't a better word for it. In a way, I'm kind of sad, because this was one of the things that, when I popped online, I was always checking for. "Is there a new Panic? ...Awww." "Is there a new Panic? YES!" Both stories were awesome, and thank you so much for posting them-- yes, I know that they demand to be posted at times, but your stories have meant so much, to others besides me, I'm sure. But, as you said, every story has to end. I'll be looking forward to the drabbles, though. ^^ Again, great job; thank you; congratulations. ^^ *hugs*

paranoidangel · 14 September 2008 · Chapter 60: Tying Up Loose Ends

I've so enjoyed these stories - the nice, long chapters are good to get into. I've loved all the emotional bits. It's good that it all turns out alright in the end.

Jeir · 14 September 2008 · Chapter 60: Tying Up Loose Ends

Yes, Yes, it's that strange little artist from deviantART who did a bit of fanart for Don't Panic here. It kind of figures I wouldn't actually review this until the very last chapter... I've been reading DP/ONP since chapter 4 of DP, first on ff.net, and then on here when I abandoned that place for good when I realised you had posted them elsewhere. All I can really say is that they are, and always will be, my favourite fanfictions ever. In no other fanfics have I laughed and cried as much with the characters as I did with these, in a story I fell in love with years ago. I'm even tearing a bit right now, knowing that it's all over... =') I certainly will miss looking forward to the new chapters (even the ones that took ages to come; I always jumped for joy every time I noticed a new one up.) I will even (sadly) admit that I enjoy reading your fictions with Penny more than the great work by Tolkein himself (although I will keep my pledge to read it at least once a year; usually around xmas, but I think I might change it to January in honour of Penny's start in ME.). I'm glad to see that, despite some problems, Penny and Halladan's life together was happy; I and many others wouldn't have it any other way, as you know. XD You are a master of fanfiction, and rather than spinning in his grave, I'd rather believe Tolkein would be smiling at you from The West. ;) As Redheredh said, you have certainly earned your place in fanfic fame and history indeed, and I really, *really* look forward to seeing any one-shots you manage in the future. One thing I love about the ending, and Tolkein's work actually, is that you actually tell what happens to the characters once the story has ended; this is something that always drives me crazy when I finish a series of books; what happens to them next? Will they be happy and live in peace? If there's a couple, will they have children, and what will happen to them if they do? So many stories never answer these questions, and it always leaves a little sadness in me when I can never find out what happened to the characters I fell in love with after it's all over. Thank you for creating such a wonderful fic. It has kept my ever-diminishing faith in fanfiction aloft for so long, and that you actually managed to finish it...well, I think I'm just going to have to do just as Alassiel said and read it again from the very beginning. =)

Kitty · 14 September 2008 · Chapter 60: Tying Up Loose Ends

Well, I knew the story would end soon, but it was a bit of a surprise that it came *so* soon. I was glad to know a bit about what happened to Penny and Halladan and the others later on. It sounds realistic that there was no ‚happily ever after’, but some problems and arguments, considering their tempers and the circumstances of their place and time. And it is certainly sort of logical that Penny was a descendant of herself. When you mentioned January 2004, I knew where it would lead :) I wonder if the possibility ever dawned on her. It would probably be comforting for her to know their descendants lived on for so long. I will miss this story very much *sniffle* As it is so special, it can’t be replaced by other fics. There’s no Penny, after all. But I really hope RL will allow you a few hours here and there to write little one-shots, as you already implied; it would make the parting from this fic easier. Anyway, I want to say a very big ‚Thank you’ for writing these two storys in the first place, for continuing in spite of your lack of time, for writing such a convincing and realistic story showing Middle-earth through the eyes of someone of our time. You did a great job with it, and I enjoyed it very much and will re-read it from time to time, no doubt about that. **big bear hug**

Virtuelle · 14 September 2008 · Chapter 60: Tying Up Loose Ends

Ah Boz what a stunningly perfect ending. *sighs* I knew the second the answering machine clicked the message where you were going. Parting from this wonderful fan fic will be sweet sorrow, but thankfully you have this posted more than one place and you were kind enough to link us to you LJ. I do hope you have time to drabble about them from time to time. It will have a hallowed place in my favorites. A story ending with such sweet irony is nothing but perfect. I do have to ask about your banner at your LJ for this fic, ;) who are the lads portraying Halladan and Arvain? I hope that is who is depicted. LOL And is the pic of Penny you? Would her eyes be that color? * blushes * I was working on a fan art. It would be the first time I have created something for a loved story at my DA account, linking back to your story here. You were so kind to thank everyone, but it is us the readers that should thank you. You did a fantastic job! So many authors start their stories and never finish them this was a pure delight to read. If anyone reading these reviews has not read the first story please do. Both of them were perfect in detail and devotion of the author to hold your intrest and draw you into the story. Boz brought Rivendell alive. I have not had so much fun reading since my obession with the Mellon Chronicles a year ago. Boz you totally rock girl!!!!! :D