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The Steward's Coup  by Shireling 2 Review(s)
LindorienReviewed Chapter: Prologue on 7/3/2004
Hi Helen,

I read through chapter 7 and I did it a little oddly. I went backwards. The reason because I wanted to see how well you were supporting your characterizations by what had gone before.

You've taken a very 'unsafe' view of Faramir here, one I find interesting. I can see the battle fatigue, but I was under the impression PTSD manifests at a later time, sometimes years. Although, I suppose the onset could be pretty quick.

Since I've written a lengthy 'Faramir after the War' fic, I find this one of particular interest and I'll be interested in seeing how you handle the situation. So far, I am with you on what you are doing and I appreciate the row you chose to hoe.

One item really struck me, though, as I read: Faramir's apparent ignorance of his family's wealth. I don't see that as being possible. I LOVED how you had him order all of Dad's stuff removed. I could so appreciate his desire to not be confronted by it and his wish to start fresh. I also appreciated that Faramir is picking up the 'underwhisperings' of people comparing him to his father and to Boromir, further serving to undermine a mental state perhaps more fragile than he might want others to see.

I do not find Aragorn's anger at Faramir incongrous in chapter 7, I do find, given the politics which surround governing a kingdom after such a war and walking in after as a near complete stranger, that Aragorn would choose to do his berating in public a bit odd. I would expect him to draw Faramir aside, sit him down and pull no punches.

Politics is a dirty business. If there is a crack in the resolve to be found, those who would seek to take advantage will take advantage- so these aspects of your fic are compelling to me.

In short - I am interested in seeing how you resolve this. I've a feeling you are going to pull it off. Lindorien

Author Reply: Lindorien
Welcome and thank you, you have given me a lot to think about.

With regards to the inheritance my assumption was that Faramir had been pretty much isolated from the business of the Steward for most of his adult and adolescent years because of his army training/duty- I don't think he was ignorant of the wealth so much as he had no reason to think of it...only the rich don't have to think about money!!!

Boromir would have been aprised of all the necessary details but Faramir didn't 'need to know'and was kept out of the loop and circumstances at the end of the war conspired to keep him in the dark.

Aragorn and Faramir are circling round each other, both insecure and defensive, both wanting to establish a positive relationship.

;)

helen

EnvinyatarReviewed Chapter: Prologue on 5/31/2004
Very interesting start. I haven't read Cloaks yet, but you seem to encapsulate that well - OK we've got a wounded, recovering Faramir about to face trouble. Looking forward to reading more.

Author Reply: Thank you,

Faramir will have to deal with trouble missunderstandings and confusion before he finds a way to put things right.

Helen/shireling

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