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Fear  by Ariel 2 Review(s)
InklingReviewed Chapter: 15 on 12/9/2004
You’re abroad (or were)? Lucky you! Hope it is(was?) a fun trip!
As usual I’m reading this in the wee hours of the morning, when it’s hard to write a coherent review, but I’ll give it a shot…

So did I understand that correctly? Is Drogo a solicitor? What an interesting idea!
And what a lovely bond you’ve portrayed between Drogo and Frodo…something I haven’t seen much in fanfics.

I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again…it’s wonderful how you reveal a character’s many facets…for example, managing to make Menegilda likeable, even though she and Drogo loathe each other. She’s right about the nursemaid job being good for Dody, even if she’s being manipulated by the doctor. And about Drogo being a good role model for him…at last, Dody has “someone to cling to.”

Your description of Brandy Hall is marvelous; I could picture it perfectly. And you’ve captured very well the nuances of the hobbits’ social class system…healers are not working class, but neither are they gentry. I liked the parallel exchanges that bought this out: “Primula…retained a distance that Daisy found strangely reassuring” and “If Menegilda didn't notice the way Clearwater stiffened at the term 'servant', Dody did.” One is happy in her “place,” and the other chafes at his…


Author Reply:

Yes, abroad and coming back today. *sigh* I am eager to see my kids again, but this has been such a lovely visit. I will miss these incredible folks. Haven't had such a good time at a harem meet since the very first one. *sniff* It is sad to meet people I could have had long and dear friendships with only as the fandom seems to be winding down (though I believe I could say the same of you! ;)).

Yes, I made Drogo a solicitor - and not fabulously rich himself, though from a wealthy family. I envisioned Belladonna and Bungo to be the real wealth in the family.

And I am glad you notice the differences in class. It is such an unconscious part of LOTR and with PJ basically ignoring it, I often find fanfic authors (especially american ones) ignoring this dynamic. Perhaps I was one of the gentry in a previous life, but without it, it doesn't seem LOTR to me.

Keep your eye on that class difference. I will handle it differently than many (especially americans) will expect. I do so hate to be predictable, or stereotyped. LOL!

Thank you so much for reviewing and letting me know you continue to enjoy this story. That warms my heart. Thank you!

Ariel


Lily the HobbitReviewed Chapter: 15 on 12/6/2004
Did I mention how much I love Drogo? So sensible and caring! I feared the worst when Dody was the one who should help Primula but now I am somewhat at ease.

Author Reply:

How could I not love Drogo? He was my darling hobbit's father - and no hobbit who came out as special and perfect as Frodo could have possibly had anything but the best father in the world.

(((((HUGS))))))

Ariel


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