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Like a Blade Forged in Fire  by Lialathuveril 3 Review(s)
whitewaveReviewed Chapter: 8 on 3/14/2021
Thank you for including flashbacks from Lothiriel's life in Harad. Too bad about the child she lost. Thuri is really a good person to have around her, I think she will play a key role in the future.

Author Reply: Thanks! I wanted the reader to learn about Lothiriel's life in Harad along with Eomer, bit by bit.

PryderiReviewed Chapter: 8 on 3/7/2021
Hello Lia. It is a long time since I reviewed but I need to tell you that I am really enjoying this story, in particular this chapter. I notice that you are writing the story from Eomer's point of view. I can't remember you doing that before. If that is right then I think your new approach is working well so far.
In this chapter I enjoyed the contrast between the action packed scene in the hall and the reflective conversation in the private quarters, with the housekeeper providing a satisfying bridge between them.
When Lothiriel confided that she didn't blame Denethor etcetera I was taken back in time to a production of Euripides' play Iphigenia in Aulis which I saw in London some years ago. While Lothiriel's mission in Harad was not identical to Iphigenia's plight I did find parallels between them and it set me thinking, which is a good thing! These are deep waters but navigated expertly if I am any judge. Bravo!
Pryderi.

Author Reply: Hello Pryderi,
it is a long time! I hope you're keeping well?

About the point-of-view, my last story 'Smoke and Mirrors' was also told from Eomer's point-of-view. But all my other stories are either mixed pov or first/third person narrative by Lothiriel. Funny enough, I don't usually make a conscious choice how to tell a story, but one particular way just slowly crystallizes as the best way. In this one Eomer seemed best, taking the reader along on his journey of discovery.

And interesting what you said about Iphigenia. I didn't think of it, but she was sacrificed by her father, wasn't she (although whisked away in some versions, I believe). I have to admit I'm firmly on Clytemnestra's side in this matter!

Thanks for coming along on this ride and I hope you'll enjoy it!

LarnerReviewed Chapter: 8 on 3/6/2021
She was a surprise to more than just the drunken rider who'd mistaken her for a quick tupping. Poor guy got what he deserved, it seems. And now Eomer knows she is just--behind--that--door! Maybe not as innocent and naive as he imagines....

Author Reply: Yes, I like to keep Eomer on his toes with a surprise every now and again - he's got a few more coming ;-) Thanks for reviewing!

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