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All's Fair  by Inkling 4 Review(s)
good_one_pipReviewed Chapter: 11 on 5/30/2005
Oh, dear, sweet Merry! A faunt's innocence is enough to break anyone's heart.

The part about Frodo choosing this path, and how there was no going back, rips at my heart. Even then, his will was set. He could never have known what he was getting himself into, but his motives were true and from the heart. He did not make the decision for any personal gain, only to help his uncle. If only he knew what becoming Bilbo's heir would mean...

"I wish the ring had never come to me. I wish none of this would have happened."

Author Reply: I’m glad you can see the future Ringbearer in this portrait of young Frodo…his selflessness was such an important part of his character, I think. Thanks!

LarnerReviewed Chapter: 11 on 5/20/2005
Bless dear Merry. Love the letter, the choice, the writing. Very well presented and thoughtful.

Author Reply: Thank you, Larner! I’m glad you appreciated the thought behind it, as you’re such a thoughtful writer yourself.

AndreaReviewed Chapter: 11 on 5/15/2005
Bilbo's letter took me completely by surprise! Like Frodo I had absolutely forgotten about the first letter.

You're right! This is a "real" decision and it was not easy for Frodo. Finally the love for his uncle and the fear for his wellbeing has succeeded. I would never have expected any other decision from Frodo.

As you remarked, in all stories about Bilbo making Frodo his heir, I've read so far, he was always unhappy at Brandy Hall. And so the decision was easy.
But your new approach seems much more real to me.

I hope, Merry will be found soon!

Author Reply: Thanks Andrea, I’m glad you thought Frodo’s decision was true to his character.
I felt that within the context of this story, the only thing that would persuade him to go was believing that Bilbo was in trouble and needed him (since that’s the kind of noble, selfless hobbit he is, even at this young age).

ArielReviewed Chapter: 11 on 5/13/2005
Awww! Poor Merry! Frodo's going to feel guilty, no question, but I hope he finds the little bugger! And I hope Merry doesn't end up feeling like he drove his cousin away! *munches popcorn* Do continue!

Author Reply: Thanks Ariel! We're getting into the home strech, so be sure to save some popcorn for the last few chapters...

Author Reply: Er, that should be "stretch"!

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