Connie B.
· 11 August 2005
· Chapter 19: Shall We Dance?
This is great. I just loved the "march of the huntresses". That was a good one. My opinion of Myrtle has done a total turn-about. She really is a good lass. I hope they all put Petunia in her place. What a snob.
Looking forward to the next chapter.
Thanks.
Connie B.
Author's reply
Yes, I had to handle her carefully when she first met Diamond. Diamond is a very social lass, and is just getting "in" on who's who in the uppper-class realm. Myrtle may make another appearance.
I'm glad you think Petunia is a snob, because that is how I wanted her to come across. She'll eventually learn her lesson, though it may not be in *this* story. Though in the meantime, lots of folk will be telling her where to go...
LOL...I have to go back and correct Delia's remark about Petunia being a "wolf". I was going back and forth with that and ended up with "huntresses", because it isn't like the throng of tweenaged lasses were being *malicious*.
Thank you so much for reading!
Pippinfan
Dreamflower
· 11 August 2005
· Chapter 19: Shall We Dance?
Cinderella, eat your heart out! *sigh* I could just imagine this lovely romantic scene!
And Pippin going home just to change into his livery, so he would look all the more impressive as he dances with Diamond, and incidentally puts several lasses and lad in *their* places, LOL! He certainly learned political tactics while he was hanging around with a King and a Steward, didn't he?
Aren't dances (and balls) excellent vehicles for displaying the true worth of some characters before others who are less worthy? And of course, you get to display everyone in their finery!
I just love the way you have written Pippin's family; they are all so sweet to Diamond, yet they also are ready to unsheath their claws when those they are fond of come under attack!
I can't wait to see what comes next!!
Author's reply
Oh....I have one or two things up my sleeves...you'll be quite surprised (I hope! LOL)
I figured it would be Pearl's and Pimpernel's natural instinct to protect Pippin--and his well-chosen "friends", even well into adulthood.
Yes! Thankfully, JRRT wrote that hobbits *loved* parties. As I mentioned before, I always keep one or two O.C. characters conveniently hanging around for just that purpose. ;-) I tried to be careful with Myrtle at hers and Diamond's first meeting becaue I didn't want her character to be too snooty; she was going to be needed at the dance. Myrtle still has some growing up to do, but she's really not a bad lass.
LOL...my version of Pippin learned politics while plotting mischief as a lad, but yes--I definitely agree, under the tutelage of Aragorn and Faramir, Pippin would learn to channel those impish inclinations to something more useful--such as telling Petunia to kiss off. :-O
I guess it was sort of "Cinerella-ish", wasn't it? Hehehe... "In my own little corner in my own little chair, I can be whatever I want to be..."
Thank you so much for reading!
Pippinfan
Grey Wonderer
· 11 August 2005
· Chapter 15: Who's Minding the Minder?
Only had time for one chapter before bed and this was a great one. I loved how concerned Pippin was about Diamond and I loved his efforts to take care of her. Thought it was so funny when he questioned the healer about the brandy. I love your Pippin! I have promised myself another chapter after work tomorrow. This is a wonderful story, but then you always write stories that I enjoy.
Author's reply
As you know, I've been rather lazy of late, so I do apologize for my "delayed" response!
Thank you for the sweet compliment! I *so* look foraward to your reviews. Yeah, I had to have Pippin question that bit; I mean, *he* may be an old veteran at the hot-juice, but Diamond is only thirty years old--she may have had a sip or two of spirits previously, but to drink a glass full of the stuff would kick her wee backside to the ground.
And I *LOVE* your Pippin, too! And your Merry--and your Frodo...and Sam...what the heck--I love ALL your hobbits--and Gandalf! They're so hobbity! :-)
Take care,
Pippinfan
Hai Took
· 5 August 2005
· Chapter 18: A Beautiful Thing
Poor Diamond! All thse rude lads not wanting to dance with her becasue she has a scar! I'm glad Pippin spoke to her though, I'm sure they will both have a more enjoyable time with one another than they would have in anyone else's company!
Pippin "shadowing" Paladin was great! He obviously wasn't fooled with who Pippin was shadowing either! I liked that Pippin bought Diamond the doll, very sweet. That she wouldn't take it unless some kind of bargain was put on it. Now they are certain to have a few more games.
Looking forward to more, and seeing how the dance goes!
Author's reply
At this point, Diamond is still an employee of Pippin's sister, thus she would not allow such a gift without some sort of compensation--even if it comes from the Thain's son. She's an honest and forthright lass in this regard.
Yes, I must say that I got a kick out of writing the "shadowing" bit. We'll just have to wait and see, but I think Pippin might have a thing or two to say to one of them.
Thanks for reading!
Pippinfan
Larner
· 5 August 2005
· Chapter 18: A Beautiful Thing
Very satisfying. And I wonder how many were told off by Pippin's sisters to leave Diamond alone, hmm? Funny thing....
Author's reply
Fortunate for the lads, none of Pippin's sisters witnessed any of of her embarrassment.
Pippinfan
Dreamflower
· 4 August 2005
· Chapter 18: A Beautiful Thing
*very big grin*
Beautiful chapter; the romance is coming along nicely, and now they have finally admitted to one another their true feelings! Oh, well, it's Bart's and Tolo's and Nick's etc. losses, and Pippin's gain! Won't those jerks be surprised!
Looking forward to more!
Author's reply
I have to admit, I also liked that bit of Pippin expressing his heart to Diamond. I had that one in my head for so long and I was finally able to write it in, LOL. Oh, Pip's got something up his sleeve for those cowards, and anyone else who has a "say" in his dancing with a working-lass. I am so glad you enjoyed this--I enjoyed writing it, although I think that bit with Pearl needs clarifying...so sorry; it was late at night and at the time it all made perfect sense. Thanks for reading!
Pippinfan
Connie B.
· 4 August 2005
· Chapter 18: A Beautiful Thing
I really liked this. I laughed out loud at Paladin's remark about Pippin shadowing someone but sure wasn't him.:)
Poor Diamond. That whole part of the day must have been awful. First the fright over the ponies and then the line of rejections by the lads.
Pippin has fallen, and hard. But it looks like Diamond has fallen just as hard. I wonder what the talk will be when he dances with her. First he's the son of the Thain dancing with a hired lass, and then add to that the fact that her face is scarred. Oh the snobs and biddies are gonna have field day with this one.
Looking forward to the rest of the tale.
Connie B.
Author's reply
Oh, yes...the dance is coming up. :-) And yes, there will be a bit of excitement there...! Thank you for reading, Connie! Gotta go and write...
Pippinfan
Grey Wonderer
· 31 July 2005
· Chapter 14: Painting the Town Green
Ah, jealous, aren't they? LOL Maybe now they will start to see each other in a different light. I guess Pippin is a bit afraid to get involved with another sister at this point. His luck has not been very good, has it? This is getting very interesting. I wonder which of them will admit to the attraction first?
Author's reply
Whoa! Now there's a questin no one else has asked--I wonder which of them will admit to the attraction first? And I am working on that as I--lol, *speak*! As JRRT liked to say, the burnt hand teaches the best, and Pippin's hand got burnt all right. If nothing else, the boy has courage; we all know he eventually comes round to see things clearly.
Thanks again for reading... :-) Have a great Sunday--and hope to see another update to B&T soon! After all, I did give you those "plot bunnies"! LOL
Pippinfan
Grey Wonderer
· 31 July 2005
· Chapter 13: Settling In
The use of music to bring them together here is wonderful. I love the details that you put in about Pippin knowing how to write music when most hobbit did not. I love Diamond's personality and how very different she is from her sister too. Thanks for the congratulations on the 'Best Bet'. It was a complete surprise. Dont' know about you but I spent most of this weekend wishing I were back in Pittsburgh. LOL
Author's reply
I do love music--I just can't play any! So, I live through Pippin. :-) I was doing research on some other aspect of music for this chapter and stumbled upon an article that mentioned until a certain period of time in history, music was not written down, hence it was "passed down" from generation to generation. I thought since Pippin had gone to the "big city" in the south, and being the clever lad that he is, he would come away with absorbing such things that tickled his fancy.
Thanks for reading!
Pippinfan
p.s. I know what you mean!! How can we plot to get *him* back here??? :-)
Oh, the conversations in this chapter are so well done and I loved the sarcastic question about whether or not Diamond might be missing a beau back home. That Pippin is a real character, isn't he? Gotta run do some real life stuff, but I will be back to read more later on today. I just love this one!
Author's reply
Pip is still smarting a bit, but he doesn't stay down for long. Its always wonderful to see a review from you, but please don't feel as if you must catch up all at once.
Btw, your "package" is sealed and ready to be mailed tomorrow. Its easier to stop at the postoffice on the way home from work--I have the choice of two. Take care!
Pippinfan
Grey Wonderer
· 30 July 2005
· Chapter 11: Welcome to Great Smials
“There is no wagering in this apartment, young hobbit.” Pim looked over the sitting room area then to her temporary child minder. “Did the lads have tea, Diamond?”
Loved that line for some reason. Also loved the underwear discussion. This is such a mix of funny, touching and serious and all of it so well blended together. You are out-doing yourself again. Keep it up!
Author's reply
You'll love another one in chapter 17 that Diamond says! Thank you--I sincerely didn't want it to be another gloomy Roses...I had a hard time shaking my dark clouds while writing that tale. The emotions bounce from chapter to chapter.
Pippinfan
Grey Wonderer
· 30 July 2005
· Chapter 10: Depths of Despair
Poor Pip! All those responsiblities and all that pain. The lass made a very poor choice if you ask me. I love Pimpernel in this story. I don't know if I have mentioned that before but I do love her. You have written her so strong and so loving. The perfect older sister.
Author's reply
Well...lets just say that I "used" Sapphira...lol. My Pimpernel has always been a strong lass, much like your Pervinca! When I first started reading your stories long ago, that is what came most to my mind; we wrote Pippin's sister with somewhat of the same temeraments, but in different sisters.
Pippinfan
p.s. Congratulations on Best Bet! :-)
Pearl Took
· 28 July 2005
· Chapter 17: Not In Love
"The problem lies in that some who think they are worthy of his heart, really are not. And those who are,” said Pim, taking the tween’s chin in her hand, “do not realize it.” She stood up, “I must look in on my lads for a few minutes, but please think about what I’ve said.”
Bravo!!! How elegantly worded!! I love how she impressed "Mr. Merry" with her interest, knowledge of and concern for his cousin.
Ah, this is wonderful :) :) :)
Author's reply
Thank you, Mentor! That is a compliment indeed. :-) Merry was the "pivotal point" in this chapter; he gleaned from Diamond her personality and if she were capable of such a love for his dearest friend, and then with that in mind, he helped Pippin to realize how much this lass meant to him.
Thanks for reading! :-) :-) :-)
Pippinfan
Hai Took
· 28 July 2005
· Chapter 17: Not In Love
Well Diamond is avoiding the answer to her problems because she thinks herself unworthy of Pippin. Very sweet! She still seem comfortable enough around Pippin and indeed knows exactly where to find him. She was a bit surprise though it seems to find Merry taking her usual place. She did a good job of answering and asking the right questions though for Merry. I'm glad he likes her! Seems she is very popular with the whole family! All the conspiring they did to get them just sitting togeter! Then that turned into a bit of a mess. It seems however that Pimpernel is looking after Diamond well, helping her to find out her own feelings. Well done! Looking forward to more and reading about the fair inparticular!
Author's reply
Well, Pippin has of yet to tell her *everything* about the Quest--including the nightmares he and Merry endure, so yes, she that is why she was surprised to see Merry in her place at the draughts game. However, she learned a lot by just taking a peek at his sketch. Pimpernel, I think, misses having her younger sister Pervinca around the smials, so she's chosen Diamond to sort of fill-in.
Yes! We're at the Fair now--and I am having so much fun writing about it. Fate, indeed, is taking over.
Thanks for reading!
Pippinfan
Larner
· 28 July 2005
· Chapter 17: Not In Love
He who has earned his own scars in greatest honor will not worry about those a certain lass might bear, I'm thinking. Love to see the scheming continue.
Author's reply
I totally agree! I don't think there will be too much more scheming; I think the lasses learned their lesson, but also--Fate will be taking over a tad. Wait and see. :-)
Thank you so much for reading Courtship!
Pippinfan
Larner
· 28 July 2005
· Chapter 16: A Family Meeting
I love seeing all watching the two watchers mutually watching one another. Knowing ahead of time this is the keeper is rather satisfactory for us, but worrying for Pippin's sisters and Estella, I'm certain.
Author's reply
LOL! That's one way to put it! These two (Pippin and Diamond) are so meant for one another it isn't funny. They both think alike for starters, but they also share a host of interests...and other things that I cannot mention because I'm writing about it. Sorry. :-( More on all that later.
Thank you so much for reading Courtship!
Pippinfan
Connie B.
· 28 July 2005
· Chapter 17: Not In Love
What a pleasant surprise to wake up to this morning.
I felt just awful when Diamond was silently putting herself down at the beginning of this chapter. I hate to see someone like her feeling so bad about their worth. She's a special person, she just hasn't seen it yet.
I also held my breath when she found the sketch that Merry had done. I was worried that he would over-react and say something hurtful to her. I think sometimes he tries too hard to protect others from knowing about the things he and Pippin have seen and experienced. Yes, I know that they want to protect their people from the knowledge of the wide world, but at what cost to themselves. The people who could best help them are those they love the most, but it is hard to help someone when you don't know what is at the root of their problems. Hope this is making sense.
I actually said "Owww" when Pippin accidently hit Diamond in her injured eye. I felt so bad for both of them. I've been on both sides of simular situations, and I think that Pippin had to have felt terrible. At least Diamond understood tht it was an accident, and that she had actually caused it, in a small way, by spilling the milk.
If nothing else, Diamond can rest assured that she will have one dance at the fair. Pippin won't be put off by garlic.
I really like the final scene. People are starting to realize that Diamond really is different than the other lasses who have been after Pippin. I think she would have loved him just as much if he had been a servant as she does knowing that he is the future Thain.
This was a fantastic chapter.
Thanks.
Connie B.
Author's reply
"I think sometimes he tries too hard to protect others from knowing about the things he and Pippin have seen and experienced. Yes, I know that they want to protect their people from the knowledge of the wide world, but at what cost to themselves. The people who could best help them are those they love the most, but it is hard to help someone when you don't know what is at the root of their problems. Hope this is making sense." - Connie B.
*Excellent* point, Connie--and one that, unfortunately, I cannot go into at this point, but I will explain everything very soon. There *is* a reason for Merry's and Pippin's reaction. Remember how self-concious they were when Diamond shamelessly gaped at the scars on their wrists? Hold that thought because I will be explaining things very soon.
As I said to another reader, spilt milk will be something that these two will be laughing about for a long time after they're married. It was definitely an accident--however, Pippin indeed was sitting on her "blind-side"...and yes, she ought to have been more careful with grasping things.
The final scene seems to be a favorite. I liked the exchange between Merry and Diamond the most, and then Merry and Pippin. I guess it's because as an author, through Merry, I am explaining *why* Pippin feels differently about Diamond...why he is falling for her. And its nothing superficial; its something deep and lasting.
Thank you for the compliment--and thank you for reading Courtship!
Pippinfan
p.s. Glad to have made your morning! :-)
Dreamflower
· 28 July 2005
· Chapter 17: Not In Love
"I can’t do that, Mr. Merry, it isn’t--”
“Proper?” Merry blew out a plume of smoke, “Tell me, lass, are you by any means related to Sam Gamgee?”
Diamond frowned, “No…I don’t think so, though I’ve heard of him--and he would be right. Besides, I was going to say ‘appropriate’.”
“Same thing,” Merry said flatly.
I nearly fell out laughing when I saw that bit! How perfect!
I love this chapter, particularly Diamond's forthright and artless curiousity over the sketch of the Orc, her mixture of honesty and reticence as she talks to Merry, and incidentally reveals much of her heart to him; I love her description of Pippin's music, as well. And the little exchange over wagering was cute, too.
And of course, the next day--we see Merry and Pippin's sisters and other female relatives plotting to help things along. Of course it ended in a minor disaster, but the truth is I was glad, for it could have gone a different way, if they had thought she might hurt Pippin like her sister did. I'm so glad they are on Diamond's "side". Although I'm sure the young couple could do with a bit less in the way of "help".
This is moving along smartly, and I am so enjoying it.
Author's reply
I am so glad you enjoyed that humorous bit between Merry and Diamond! I nearly took it out. I had written it the night before I read Frodo's challenge to Sam in Reckoning, and I thought, no! I couldn't--she'll think I'm "picking up" things. But in the end, I left it in. We've both said at different times that there are bound to be "run-ins" or "run-overs", or something along that nature. So I left it in. And Rolo! Trust me--lol...I was only thinking of chocolate when I named him!
I am also happy that you've picked up on Diamond's character--her virtues. Others have picked up on it as well, but it pleases me everytime someone does. LOL...sometimes you pick up a bit *too* much! I'm having a jest with you. :-)
Seems you and I both have a love of music. :-) Unfortunately, I am more like Diamond in that I don't have a musical bone in my body, so I live vicariously through Pippin's talents!
Yes...breakfast. Spilt milk is going to be something these two will laugh about long after they're married. I believe now that the Fair is here and fragmenting the family, we may see some "natural" magic develop between them. ;-)
Yes, I *am* picking up the pace a bit--they're only just realizing what they mean to each other and I'm only on chapter 17! Yikes. But I won't compromise the "quality" of the tale, knowing that there is quality out there that far surpasses my own.
Thank you so much for reading Courtship!
Pippinfan
Author Reply: This "reply to your reply" is a tad late and I do apologize, but after reading *my* reply over a couple times, I kind of felt I used the word "pick up" a bit carelessly. In the first paragraph, I meant it in the context of 'being influenced'(me being influenced by your lovely work). Whereas, in the second paragraph, I meant it as distinguishing a character's personality or occasionally readers foreseeing the plot ahead of me *writing* it--even though the assessments were/are correct. LOL...and *that* is my fault for not being a better author and concealing certain events--hehehe--properly. :-) I am very sorry if I came across insinuating something else.
PF
Hai Took
· 21 July 2005
· Chapter 16: A Family Meeting
I finally got through all sixteen chapters! Not that I wasn't wanting to finish it but with such a busy summer if finally calmed down enough that I could sit down and enjoy this wonderful story! It was splendid and I think you have caught all the characters perfectly! Especially Pippin. Poor, hobbit, the way he fell in love with Sapphira and then she hurt him so badly with already being engaged and still in love with him. Merry's advice to Pippin on not letting his heart be hurt was very nice of him but Pip didn't prosper from it.
While Pippin was so broken hearted it was perfect timing for Diamond to enter the picture. She is a very sweet lass and has a good head on her shoulders. She seems to be just the thing Pippin needs if only his wounded heart will allow him to return her love. I'm sure Merry is going to have something to say to Pippin once more and it seems Pippin has a brood of lasses watching his back, so I'm sure he won't be getting hurt this time!
Thank you for such a great story! You have written all of the characters well and emotion beautifully! Looking forward to more!
Author's reply
Wow! All sixteen chnapters--hat's a feat in and of itself! I'm glad you could join in--welcome!
As for Merry, I hope I didn't write him overly critical towards Pippin's lass-friends, but I imagine him standing on the sidelines in Buckland while his young cousin finds his way toward the lass he'll spend the rest of his life with. Merry deeply loves Pippin (brotherly!), and wishes nothing but the best for him, yet *because* he knows Pippin so well, he tends to read (or NOT read) his lass-friends' hearts with his cousin's interests in mind. Probably too cautious to you and I, but not to Merry.
Yes, I will shamelessly say that I purosely used the "same" Sapphira from Roses and placed her here as the lead-in for Diamond. Pippin is a young lad and is the last of his group of friends to marry. He is natually feeling the tug of wanting to settle down, but at the time of Sapphira, he may have also been feeling a bit of pressure. Hence, he was going a wee bit fast for courting in my book. I imagine most hobbits taking their time to get to know one another first.
I aplogize ten times over for not replying sooner, but I got this lovely review just as I was stepping out the door last Friday morning to go to Pittsburgh for the LOTR Symphony. You can read all about it on my LJ, as "pippinfan1". I don't know if links work here: http://www.livejournal.com/users/pippinfan1/
Thanks for reading Courtship!
Pippinfan
Connie B.
· 18 July 2005
· Chapter 16: A Family Meeting
So, the plot thickens. All the lasses see it. The question is, can they avoid the temptation to push things along a bit.:)
Diamond continues to empress me. She is so observant, but also so sweet and caring.
Sorry for being so slow to review.
Thanks.
Connie B.
Author's reply
There is a 50-50 chance that they won't. ;-)
Thank you! You will see why Diamond is the perfect lass for Pippin--though I daresay not necessarily *my* Diamond. I know there are plenty of good P&D tales out there, and I meant to read up on as many as I can in the near future.
You're not slow--molasses is slow. ;-) How was your camping trip?
Pippinfan
Pearl Took
· 17 July 2005
· Chapter 16: A Family Meeting
A repeat performance indeed!! Everyone is worried about dear Pippin's soft heart. It is so cute the way all the children like Diamond :) Well done as always :)
Author's reply
I got Diamond's charisma from when I was a teenager; every morning I would wake up with three cats and a dog on my little twin bed--like the pied piper. Yes, a very tight situation! I thought that her credentials as a child minder would be that the children found her good naturedness appealing.
Thanks for reading Courtship!
Pippinfan
Pearl Took
· 17 July 2005
· Chapter 15: Who's Minding the Minder?
Forgive the lateness of this, too much to do of late.
You are most welcome for all and any help I've been able to provide :)
This is a good chapter. Children playing about in ways they shouldn't and hurtful things resulting - such a common occurance in any age and culture. Diamond now having to deal with being scarred, again a difficult thing even today. This is a good, solid, realistic story. **APPLAUSE**
Author's reply
Yes, looks were very important "back then", so this issue may come up again in future chapters. I know you're a busy lass these days :-) Thanks for stopping by to leave a word of encouragement.
Pippinfan
Dreamflower
· 16 July 2005
· Chapter 16: A Family Meeting
Hmm...this could go one of two ways: the ladies could decide that Diamond is just what the doctor ordered, and try to help the match along; or they could worry that she would break Pip's heart the way Sapphira did, and try to hinder it...I wonder which way it will go? (You will notice that I did *not* consider the possibility they will mind their own business, LOL!)
There were a lot of lovely little touches in this. I noted Diamond's fascination with Merry's scar--only too natural in her situation. I liked Merry's gentle chiding of Pippin for not keeping in touch better. And I am loving all your hobbit ladies--they are a lovely and lively lot, each with a distinct personality.
Looking forward to more!
Author's reply
LOL...you nailed that third option! Well, I'd say if you're a bettin' lass, there is a 50-50 chance of either first two happening. ;-)
I like to think that Pippin wrote a *little* more under other, more happier circumstances, however, when it comes to heartbreaks he's a more private person, bearing his pain alone.
As for the scars...there is more to come. :-) Thank you for the compliment of my hobbit ladies--I rather like them myself. Right now, I am loving *your* world of hobbits in A New Reckoning!
Thank you for reading Courtship!
Pippinfan
Larner
· 12 July 2005
· Chapter 15: Who's Minding the Minder?
Well, she's getting an education from one who's had one of the deepest of educations in all of the Shire. Lovely chapter!
Author's reply
You're really seeing the deeper things in this tale and I like that. Thank you so much for the compliment, and thank you for reading Courtship! :-)
Pippinfan
Connie B.
· 11 July 2005
· Chapter 15: Who's Minding the Minder?
So that's what happened to Diamond. Ouch! Hope no damage was done to her eye itself. That could be dreadfully inconveniant in her employment, and her social life. Of course, a scar is going to cramp her social life anyway; except with a certain Took.:)
I really like the way this story is going.
Thanks.
Connie B.
Author's reply
As for her eye...we'll have to wait and see what the upcoming chapters say. Yes, as we discussed earlier in the week, looks were everything "back then". Not to say that Diamond or even Sapphira is vain, but lets face it, lads (and men!) are driven by the beauty of a lass. Thank you for the lovely compliment! Take care. :-)
Pippinfan