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| Sons of Kings by jenolas | 3 Review(s) |
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| Dot | Reviewed Chapter: 15 on 2/13/2005 |
| Lovely concluding chapter, jenolas – although I admit I’m sorry to see this one end! I enjoyed the part with Legolas, Maerrin and Arwen. It was already a cosy and close scene between mother and daughter and I love that Legolas doesn’t disturb it at all but rather is welcomed easily into the picture. I felt so glad for Legolas when he realised that this tough question was actually a sign of how comfortable they feel with him and how much they value his opinion! I had to laugh at the thought that his ‘diplomatic’ answer was based on what Aragorn was likely to respond. Sarien seems to have thought of the perfect solution! You really made me smile to see how happy Maerrin is with the news that he does indeed love her. I imagine it must have been a joy to Legolas too to be the one to share such wonderful news with her. And of course now both of them will be as free as possible from hopeful suitors ;-) As always, I love the way you write the friendship between Aragorn and Legolas. It’s interesting that Aragorn still feels bitterness that Thranduil didn’t approve of their friendship. I suppose it can’t have been easy, especially knowing how important Thranduil is in Legolas’ life. That dinner sounds like a fun time! The type that can only happen amongst very close friends and family. And I was absolutely delighted with the chat between Thranduil and Aragorn. I felt so sad for Thranduil as he allowed himself to remember Elendil and the times they shared. You wrote it so well. I almost felt as privileged as Aragorn did to be able to see this side of Thranduil. I like the way they become just two fathers for a while as they try to accept the idea that greater happiness often does come at some cost but that it can be worth the pain. And as Aragorn has seen with his son, so many things have to be denied out of necessity; surely any other chances for joy should be taken. I can’t blame Thranduil for wanting to spare his son the pain that he has felt, and apparently still feels, but I’m glad he realised that the good memories are something to be cherished. I suppose he knows too how much it would have meant to him at the time to have his own father’s approval. I love the line “Thranduil held Aragorn’s gaze unflinchingly as he spoke, unafraid to admit his mistake whilst remaining as majestic and powerful in his humbleness.” It must have been an incredible moment. And that last part… What a wonderful way to finish. It’s almost as though Aragorn’s realisation of Legolas’ destiny should be sad but somehow it isn’t because you’ve written it with such a sense of rightness. As though in a moment of clarity he sees, understands and accepts the fate of all elves. Legolas is more than just his friend, he’s an elf, and as such will travel to his rightful home where another life awaits him beyond these days of love and friendship with Aragorn and his family. It must comfort Aragorn too in some way to see how much Thranduil still loves his one-time friend because he knows that Legolas will still hold him in his heart forever. I’m actually looking forward to re-reading this in one go now that it’s over, at least as soon as RL allows me to. Eldarion has a come a long way in not only accepting his duty but developing a sense of pride in who he is. And along the way everyone around him has learned a little something of themselves too. Great story, jenolas. You give your characters so much life! I hope to see more from you sometime soon. :-) Author Reply: Ai Dot! As ever your comments have captured the essence of what I was trying to say. It is an incredibly uplifting feeling, and truly amazing to know that someone I have never met can 'see' the meaning of my words so well. I guess this is every writer's aim to be able to draw the reader into the story and have them understand my portrayal of the various characters. I thank you for you reviews, they are always muvh appreciated, jenolas, (who understands completely about RL drama, more's the pity!) | |
| elliska | Reviewed Chapter: 15 on 2/13/2005 |
| I loved this story and I am sad to see it end but it did so with a wonderful last chapter. I loved Legolas's thoughts as the ladies asked him to help chose dresses. As sweet as it is to see him drawn closer into their family, it is sad as well for one day he will lose them all. As Thranduil worries. I loved that part--between Thranduil and Aragorn. Very well done. Tying all the fathers' dilemas over their children's happiness/welfare together like that. And the stories they told (both about Legolas and Thranduil's younger days) were great. Great story jenolas. I really enjoyed it. Author Reply: Of course, I am assuming that Legolas has no sisters or mother to make such enquiries of him, although he has a very good sense of style! As the years went by, Aragorn's life experiences lead him to have more in common with Thranduil than Legolas, at least as far as family matters go, and thus a new understanding developed between the two. I really apreciate your comments and the fact that you liked this story so much. It was somewhat of a challenge to write, but an enjoyable one, rewarded by a reader's appreciation. Thank you, jenolas | |
| daw the minstrel | Reviewed Chapter: 15 on 2/13/2005 |
| I've really enjoyed this glimpse of Thranduil with his son and then with Aragorn's family. I'd never thought about him being friends with Elendil and if that might have affected him. Author Reply: Thanks daw, as always I was trying to see the character's lives and motivations from a different perspective, and it seems to have worked out. jenolas | |