FIC: "Holding Out for..." by lash_larue, Dudley/Lavender, PG-13

[dudley_mod]

Title:"Holding Out for..."
Author/Artist: lash_larue
Prompt: 1 submitted by katmarajade:
Where have all the good men gone
And where are all the gods?
Where's the street-wise Hercules
To fight the rising odds? - Basically the whole Bonnie Tyler song.
Pairing, or gen: Dudley/Lavender
Rating: PG13
Warning(s): Some violence (including attempted sexual assault) and

Comments

[wwmrsweasleydo]

I absolutely love this story! I was damp-eyed at several points. The opening is scary enough to make Dudley's action heroic, and Lavender's need for recovery very real. I like that you then go on to show a balance with good, caring, effective Muggles as well as the assailants, and sensitive decent men as well.

I really liked Grace's character. You didn't dwell on your description of her, but nonetheless I had a real sense that I knew her and her presence made me feel that everyone was safe. Her approval of Dudley also validated him, and proved his redemption.

The Dudley you have here feels like a very possible (and hopeful) development from his character in canon. This could very well be who that bully becomes after telling Harry that he's not a waste of space. It gives me hope for all humankind, not just for fictional characters.

I enjoyed Lavender's emotional journey through the course of this fic too. You built her confidence and strength at a believable pace, and I loved her relationship with Dudley. I can see how his protectiveness towards her could have changed Ginny's mind!

I could go on and on and quote half of the fic back at you, but suffice to say that I love it and I'm really glad that we got to kick the fest off with this story!

[lash_larue]

Thank you, I'm so happy that it worked for you!
L