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Seeing Isn't Always Believing  by shirebound 6 Review(s)
LindeleaReviewed Chapter: 2 on 4/21/2020
O thank you so much for directing me to this one here! I somehow find reading at SoA (maybe the slightly-green-grey background?) easier than at LJ, less strain on the eyes.

I am guardian of the Secret Fire, and release it only at need. But the more I learn of hobbits, the more I wonder if it is not they over whom I am truly guardian. Perhaps it is the Shire dwellers that possess the greatest and most secret fire -- the unquenchable spirit within them. Ah, Gandalf. Of course you are numbered among the Wise, and someday to be the head of your Order, though it would seem you don't have an inkling of that happening, at least.

And Gandalf, watching over Frodo (and Bilbo) with such loving care... And Bilbo's obvious affection and love for Frodo (and his recognition that Frodo's regard for him is not grounded in material wealth or treasure)... Wonderful.

Oh, and Samwise, there on the spot with a blanket, and help, and carvings... a foreshadowing of his care and loyalty to come.

Lovely! Thank you again for this respite today.

Author Reply: Thank you for such lovely comments! I'm glad to be reminded of this story, which I enjoyed writing very much. Comfort and friendships, and Gandalf's ever-growing revelations about hobbits... they make me bounce. I appreciate your review so much, my friend.

Agape4GondorReviewed Chapter: 2 on 7/4/2007
Blessed tale, this one is. I love Sam's little creatures for Frodo's comfort. I love the healer's kindness. I love Gandalf's saving Frodo and the spectacular way he did it - all unseen by the other Hobbit lads. And especially Frodo's love for Bilbo and vice versa. Delightful.

Author Reply: Awww, thank you. I have such a weakness for writing what I perceive as a wonderful relationship between Gandalf, Bilbo, Sam, and Frodo. It just seemed so 'right' that wee Sam would send some small things he treasured in order to cheer up his "Mr. Frodo".

This healer just came to me out of nowhere, and I liked her so much, she plays a major role in another story, "When the King Comes Back". It's fun to re-use characters and weave these stories together.

LarnerReviewed Chapter: 2 on 1/4/2007
Frodo Baggins, one of the most responsible of Hobbits ever to be born. And worried about Bilbo going broke? Poor feverish lad.

Author Reply: This is the Frodo - Bilbo relationship I love best... each looking out for the other.

Queen GaladrielReviewed Chapter: 2 on 2/2/2006
Yes, Bilbo gave Frodo exactly what he needed. This is a very sweet little story, and I like the gentle foreshadowing at the end.
God bless,
Galadriel

Author Reply: Thank you. I love envisioning the love and attention Frodo must have found with Bilbo, a true kindred spirit.

DaynawaynaReviewed Chapter: 2 on 6/9/2005
I really like how you did that, Shirebound. I love seeing Bilbo/Frodo interaction, with a side of Gandalf! LOL! :)

very sweet.

Author Reply: Thank you! I had such a wonderful time writing "Quarantined" (with Bilbo, Gandalf, and Aragorn as caregivers) that I had to revisit the idea. Gandalf does love 'his' hobbits so much, but rarely shows it outwardly.

LarnerReviewed Chapter: 2 on 5/18/2005
Ah, yes, FAR more.

Lovely stories.

Author Reply: Thank you very much. Gandalf had so many years to think about the Shire... the Ring... Frodo and Bilbo... I'm sure he came to some very interesting conclusions, very early on.

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