Shadows of a Nameless Fear by Budgielover

Reviews (316)

Write a review

Ariel · 8 July 2006 · Chapter 8: At the End of All Roads

AAARRRRRGGGGHHHH!!!!! Geez, woman, KILL me, woncha? I love this chapter, really, I do. Angst by the cartload and my two favorite types: Pippin and Frodo. hehehehee! Thank you for for characterizations that are in character and courageous - two features I love to see but very rarely find in fanfic! Long live Budgie!

Author's reply

Ariel, your review made me laugh and want to hug you at the same time. Thank you for being so supportive! I was worried I was laying the angst on too thick, but the response has been overwhelmingly positive. We shall have to confess to being angst-junkies.

storyfish · 5 July 2006 · Chapter 7: In a Pit of Darkness

Oooh! Don't stop there! *bites fingernails* I just discovered this fic this morning and I couldn't wait to come home and finish it. This has been sooo good...from Frodo's creepy choice of reading material to the kidnapping (go Frodo and his mighty-hobbit-kicks and rock-throwing-prowess!) Now I'm sitting here, waiting in nervous anticipation for the Great Evil Badguy Smackdown, as delivered by Pippin, Trollslayer Extraordinaire and all-around nifty hobbit. Hoping for some major swashbuckling action in the upcoming chapters. ;-)

Author's reply

Hello, Storyfish! Thank you for telling me you are excited about this fic - to read it all in one day is quite an achievement, and something that delights and humbles me to hear. I will try to make sure the rest of the story meets your expectations!

Andrea · 5 July 2006 · Chapter 7: In a Pit of Darkness

They called him the Trollslayer, Pippin reminded himself. He could do this. He must. Yes! Pippin to the rescue! He can do it, I'm sure of that. After seeing how Frodo managed to escape those evil man, I trust his little cousin to be as inventive. But I hope Faramir and Merry are not too far away. Just to be on the safe side! Frodo did not answer the men's call! After that fall he may be unconcious - or badly hurt. And once again you leave me with multiple cliffhangers ;-) Please update soon! I just love your cliffhangers :)

Author's reply

Hi, Andrea! I am so glad you enjoy the cliffhangers ... they have rather become my trademark, and I enjoy devising them, then making them plausible. (Or as plausible as they can be, I suppose...)

Scarlett_Loves_Hobbit_Angst · 4 July 2006 · Chapter 7: In a Pit of Darkness

I Really enjoy reading your work. I've read a few other stories of yours but I've been mean and have never reviewed you before or anyone else on this site. I adore this story so far. I also appreciate that Frodo is such a fighter in this one (compared to others I have read about hobbit napping). I feel so bad for Pippin, everyone doubting that he heard Frodo, but I feel much worse for Frodo because he's going to get payback from those evil men BIG time. I of course LOVE angst (if you read my penname), and I scence A LOT of it coming up. I must sound evil but I hope a lot of horrible things happen to Frodo, so u can go through extensive circumstances to make him all better again. Keep up the great work. Update again ASAP okay? :) _Scarlett_

Author's reply

Welcome, Scarlett! I am honored that this fic pulled you out of lurkdom. I am so pleased you are enjoying the story. And yes ... you are right. This fic is loaded with angst, and more to come. Your remark about you 'hope a lot of horribe things happen to Frodo' made me laugh - that is the essence of angst, isn't it? I really have a lot to make up to poor Frodo in this one.

lotrgirl1415 · 4 July 2006 · Chapter 7: In a Pit of Darkness

Hey sweets! read it!And loved it. I am soooo happy u updated. Poor Pippin..I hope things go better for him....Poor Frodo..I hope things go angst-ier for him..lol I was really scared when poor frodo was hiding....geez he broke that dudes finger...he's gunna get it! *gulp* xoxoxoxo sorry my reviews are never helpful.....I'm not good at writing stories only good at poems... and have no real ideas to share with u....:/ meh.. love ya anyways. ~Katie PS:potc2 is almost here! P-) <--- Pirate smilie

Author's reply

Katie, not true! Your reviews are helpful! They are encouraging, and your enthusiasm is appreciated. Sometimes we just need to know that other people are enjoying our work - and you are so generous with your time and comments. (And I'm counting the days to "Pirates" too!)

Bodkin · 4 July 2006 · Chapter 7: In a Pit of Darkness

Thank goodness Pippin has a good set of ears! Pippin bit his tongue, swallowing the retort that sprang to his lips; Merry would box his ears if he dared remark that nothing could be heard over the noise of Men. So true! (In more ways than one.) Although they're not out of the woods yet.

Author's reply

Hi, Bodkin! It is, isn't it? I especially enjoy writing about Big People from the hobbits' viewpoint. They must gather at the end of the day and laaaaugh about humans...

lotrgirl1415 · 3 July 2006 · Chapter 7: In a Pit of Darkness

HEY! Haven't read the new chapter yet...but just wanted to let you know I'm really excited about reading it! I will leave a REAL review whenever i get online next..so...yeah... lots of love! ~Katie

Author's reply

Katie, you're a sweetheart. Thank you for your unbridled enthusiasm!

Linda Hoyland · 3 July 2006 · Chapter 7: In a Pit of Darkness

Very exciting with a nice touch of humour too.

Author's reply

It was a struggle to insert tiny touches of humor in this chapter, Linda. Thank you for noticing them!

Elflingimp · 3 July 2006 · Chapter 7: In a Pit of Darkness

Wow! I really liked this chapter alot, the way you described the damage the flaming catapolts did to the house was great ,I like detail like that,its just interesting,I hope dear Frodo is okay and Pippin gets out alive,I think these bad guys kinda bit off more than they can chew they just dont know it yet.

Author's reply

Someday, Elflingimp, I would love to write a story in which the hobbits are kidnapped and held for ransom from the King. After the kidnappers have fed them and kept them amused, the poor Men beg Aragorn to take them back. Maybe they offer to pay him. That humorous take on the theme must wait, though... We have to get through this story first!

GamgeeFest · 3 July 2006 · Chapter 7: In a Pit of Darkness

You are evil! Don't leave us there!!! :P Oh, Frodo. What have you done? He didn't have much of a choice and I can certainly see why he would find falling into a hole away from the rufians the better option, but he had no idea how deep that hole was or what he would find at the bottom. I figured he'd use a rock to break the latern, but under the pressure he must not have thought of it, or didn't have enough time. If only Pippin could have gotten there sooner! And thank goodness Mikah crumbled at the thought of speaking to Aragorn and Gandalf. If his feet are bleeding after that small venture out, then he really should not be dashing about the streets of Gondor - and leaving a trail after him.

Author's reply

It's delightful to see so much thought given this fanfic, GamgeeFest! It's like watching a good movie ... you keep thinking, don't go into that room! I can only reply that Frodo could not break the lantern - it has a role to play in the next chapter. And poor Sam may feel left out of the action now, but his turn is coming. Non-discriminatory hobbit torture - that's our policy... *grins*

shirebound · 3 July 2006 · Chapter 7: In a Pit of Darkness

No, thought Frodo. Not again. Not ever again. That's our courageous hobbit! And Pippin to the rescue!

Author's reply

You know, Shirebound, when I was thinking about this, I was wondering if Frodo really would face whatever lay beneath him in a dark room instead of being captured (again) by ruffians. MovieFrodo's face came to my mind, in that heart-breaking scene where he is hanging on the rock above the lava, and Sam says, "Don't you let go." I decided that he would, as he no longer had the fate of the world around his neck. He was free in a way he hadn't been before. (I sometimes do too much analyzing... :D )

Dreamflower · 3 July 2006 · Chapter 7: In a Pit of Darkness

This just gets better and better, Budgie! Oh, golly! I can't believe how exciting this is--Frodo, so determined to defend himself, poor Sam with his feet bleeding, kept from searching, Aragorn and Gandalf in a fury--not to mention Legolas and Gimli--and best of all *Pippin* to the rescue!! Oh mercy! Do update *soon*!

Author's reply

It was the oddest thing, Dreamflower ... people asked again and again to see Pippin in the role of rescurer. Poor lad, I don't think he's quite ready for what he has to face in the next chapter. I'm so glad you're enjoying the story!

Ariel · 3 July 2006 · Chapter 7: In a Pit of Darkness

Oooo! What a treat to come back to! Thank you for this! First Frodo, now Pippin! My favorite action heros! Heheheh! Wonderfully exciting chapter - can't wait for the next!

Author's reply

Amazing the amount of trouble hobbits can get into, isn't it? All while minding their own business. I have the next chapter about half-done (in between iPod sessions), so you will see it shortly!

harrowcat · 3 July 2006 · Chapter 7: In a Pit of Darkness

Ooh, Budgielover! I am so glad to see this chapter up. But now I have read it and loved it, if that is the right emotion for such a chapter that leaves our hobbits in such danger and now I have to wait for more. I don't have much patience I warn you.

Author's reply

Harrowcat, your review made me laugh! I'm glad you liked the chapter - that one was difficult to plot out and write. I shall indeed hurry with the next, lest I strain your patience.

Sarah-lynn · 13 June 2006 · Chapter 6: Amongst the Scattered Stones

I love this story so effectively written so far...whens the next update? :)

Author's reply

Greetings, Sarah-lynn! I'm so pleased you like the story. Chapter Seven was delayed by the acquisition of an iPod, but having conquored that, I am back to writing. Chapter Seven, "In a Pit of Darkness," was posted on SOA Sunday night, July 2. Enjoy!

Grean · 7 June 2006 · Chapter 6: Amongst the Scattered Stones

I just found this and devoured all of the chapters at once,,,, oh my God.... Frodo..... The action in the last chapter is fantastically written I felt as if I were seeing it all occur on screen. Bravo. Love resourceful Frodo, brave and defiant. I can only hope help arrives before these evil men retake their prize. Thank you so much for this marvelous fic. Going off to find more of your tales.

Author's reply

Hello, Grean! Thank you for your review - you made my day. Your comment of 'written as if you had seen it on screen' was just about the most encouraging thing you could have said. Action is difficult to plot and write, and to be told I did it right is very rewarding. Thank you! (And I hope you enjoy the other stories!)

Queen Galadriel · 6 June 2006 · Chapter 6: Amongst the Scattered Stones

Oh no, this is terrible! They've gotten Frodo lost now, and even if he should escape he'll have a time getting back. But go, Frodo! Good moves! I love it! Oh, Budgie, please hurry! God bless, Galadriel

Author's reply

It tickled me pink, Queen Galadriel, to read your 'oh no, this is terrible' followed by 'I love it!' Seriously, I am glad. This story is turning into a real actionfest, but it actually does have a plot. (We just haven't got to it, yet. *grins* )

Bodkin · 6 June 2006 · Chapter 6: Amongst the Scattered Stones

Small - but dangerous. And there's nothing like vomiting over your attacker to put him off. Less dingy men would have run at that point - but this lot's sense of smell is probably impaired. I hope Pippin heard Frodo - clearly enough to judge direction. I don't think these captors will treat the Ringbearer too kindly if they capture him. Mid you - jumping through a doorway sight unseen ... still - considering the alternative. Save that Frodo!

Author's reply

Hi, Bodkin. If 'this lot' had had any sense to start with, they would have known better than to tangle with the Saviour of Middle-earth! I think Frodo's physical size in no way reflects the size of his heart and courage. It would have been fun to have the Men begging for mercy, but well ... that wouldn't have made a good story, would it? *grins*

Periantari · 4 June 2006 · Chapter 6: Amongst the Scattered Stones

Oh wow! how exciting! I love so many things in this chapter but especially brave, strong, determined Frodo! i loved how he fought back to those kidnappers! That's my Frodo! =) If only he had his sling! And Sting. And his overzealous friends. And all of Aragorn’s army, while he was wishing. And your bits of humor like this placed into the fic brings such a smile to my face. :) I can hear Pippin now! i hope Frodo gets help soon! Very exciting story, Budgie! i can't wait fro more! =)

Author's reply

Again, Periantari, I thank you for your review and for your encouraging words. And for your observant reading - it is so nice to hear that some people pick up on the little jokes hidden here and there. 100%-angst stories are so tiring - for the reader and the writer.

Periantari · 4 June 2006 · Chapter 5: Outside of the Inn

oh wow--managed to take Frodo in the bathroom! how dare they! :angry look: And i love your hobbit dialogue and the humor when they all got into a hobbit pile. :) And the last part about leaving Sam behind made me sad... :( but i understand Merry's reasons though. :) ::hurries fro more::

Author's reply

Hi, Periantari! It does seem extremely despictable to kidnap the poor hobbit in the privy. I had some precedence for that ... Lily Baggins wrote a delightful story starting out like that, so I can blame the idea on her. Unfortunately, I do have to take the blame for all the hobbit-torture coming up... ;)

grumpy · 3 June 2006 · Chapter 6: Amongst the Scattered Stones

Good one Frodo, great chapter on what a hobbit can do to fight back. Also glad that Frodo was able to throw up on one of them. Poor guy that had to tell Aragorn the news.

Author's reply

Hi, Grumpy! Thank you for your review. Yes, Frodo throwing up on the leader of the bad men was a minor insult after the injury he heaped upon him, but I think it gave Frodo a small satisfaction. Those men won't think of hobbits as small, helpless creatures. And I felt sorry for the sedan chair bearer too ... telling a King bad news is never a good career choice.

Andrea · 3 June 2006 · Chapter 6: Amongst the Scattered Stones

Frodo could not believe his ears. Did they think him a child? The temptation to teach them otherwise was irresistible. Yes! Go, Frodo!!! Oh Budgielover, I love your Frodo! So cheeky, so brave and - well, so angry ;-) I hope he'll make it to the door. He's really infuriated those men! Perfect cliffhanger, as always :)

Author's reply

This is a different side of Frodo, isn't it, Andrea? VERY different from most of the fanfic out there. I'm glad it's not too different, so different he is unbelievable. I always try to keep my fics fresh, and when stretching a plot point, am a little apprehensive. Thank you for liking this stretch!

Linda Hoyland · 2 June 2006 · Chapter 6: Amongst the Scattered Stones

Very exciting, Frodo is quite a fighter !

Author's reply

Hi, Linda! I had more fun writing this chapter - I haven't had the chance before for Frodo really to show what a brave and capable fighter he is. Of course, now he has three much larger and stronger Men furious with him... *grins*

GamgeeFest · 2 June 2006 · Chapter 6: Amongst the Scattered Stones

I knew Frodo wouldn't be taken easily! Good for him, showing those men that hobbits aren't defenseless. And the nerve of that man calling to him like he would a dog or a child. Now I'm just hoping that door leads Frodo somewhere useful.

Author's reply

And you were right, GamgeeFest. Frodo is no coward, and it was a joy to be able to show that in this chapter. Of course, he is outnumbered, by much larger and stronger enemies, and lost and alone and ill... Er, sorry to dash your hopes about the door... *grins*

Q · 2 June 2006 · Chapter 6: Amongst the Scattered Stones

WOW!! Great story! Frodo in peril---utmost excitement!!...............Q

Author's reply

Q, thank you so much! 'Frodo in peril' is about my favorite long-form angst theme - for some reason, there doesn't seem to be an end to all the horrible things that can happen to him. *cough* Thank you for your encouraging comment!