Reviews (146)

Ginger Rich · 21 December 2004 · Chapter 12: Restore V

I almost did a jig when I saw that there was a new chapter. Almost. But instead I plopped down infront of the computer and stuck my eyes to the screen. The chapter was very sad, in a good way. I actually felt sorry for Alkarinwë, and ironically, I didn't want him to die. It was a sad business but very great to read. I've got nothing but praise to say in this review. It was very nice to come home from school and read. This story rocks! I lurve it.

lwarren · 21 December 2004 · Chapter 12: Restore V

I saw the notice for this new chapter and almost hurt myself getting to it! :-) Now to review this most difficult of chapters - That was a very sad and bitter end to Alkarin. I didn't like him at all, but I never wished such an end for him. And not one, but two horses gone! *wipes tears away* PLUS all that sadness and the tension of Thranduil caught on the side of the mountain during the storm...but the most effective (and affecting) part was the introspection that Alkarin's death forced on Thranduil. Very tough questions he had to come to terms with...especially watching the death of a kinslayer and realizing what that one faced upon his death. I'm glad he found it in his heart to try and ease Alkarin's death, that some pity and even forgiveness was forthcoming. Hard trip up the mountain...harder trip home (your writing had me shiverrrrrring - - )...naneth in full form...very descriptive! I'm glad the King determined Thranduil was innocent pending an investigation...you had me worried there for several paragraphs! :-) I felt so sorry for Lin (could their brother have picked a worse time to interrupt?) and I can't decide if she's encouraged or ready to throttle Thranduil. Not ready yet, hmmm? I just threw up my hands at the end...males...can't live with them...can't live without them (tho' they tempt us to the very limits at times). Anyway, this chapter was well worth the wait (not that I enjoyed the wait...but we take what we can get...which is more, soon...lol)! Have a blessed, hopefully restful Christmas and a very Happy New Year! linda

Eruanneth_Luin · 23 October 2004 · Chapter 11: Restore IV

Thranduil as the father-figure. He is definitely growing into a fine elf-lord. He has a wonderful sense of timing! Thank you for showing so delicately the aversion held by many Sindar for the Exiles. And yet he was not to be swayed simply because others made different decisions. After all Celeborn and Galadriel will discover for themselves the consequences of the braving the Curse. Why do I think that at some point a certain elleth may remove herself from Thranduil's authority and follow her heart? That elves have such happy family lives that can last through the ages says much for their nature as the unfallen. When we live close to the will of Eru how much better for us and those around us. Thank you for the lovely story.

Eruanneth_Luin · 23 October 2004 · Chapter 10: Restore III

Ah, the hazards of entering into the Noldor political arena (even as a mere stablehand) and being found talented. That he tolerated being made a 'page' says much for his self-control; displaying himself as the pretty golden ornament of a Noldo lord is NOT his style. I was delighted with his change of masters. Now we get to find out more about the Sindar in Doriath? Each encounter with Alkarwinwë brings Thranduil closer to the confrontation that seems enevitable. And the horse, Bragolach, may suffer for his preference as well. Thranduil may not be moved to wed of even commit, but his reticence is hard for me to endure. Perhaps with persuasion he could be moved to reconsider or at least give Lindoriel some reassurance. A procrastinating male elf he may be, but she deserves more than the occasional smile and kind word! Thank you for another intriguing chapter.

Ginger Rich · 18 October 2004 · Chapter 11: Restore IV

Another beautiful chapter, Coriel! It was entertaining to read. But if I may be so bold as to complain about a certain irritation elf. (AKA Thranduil). He's being stupid. I hope some elf starts taking a fancy for Lindóriel just to get him second-guessing his masculine charm because he is acting like an idiot... Anyhow, I just wanted to get that said and off my chest. :p I love the story, though! Thranduil just needs to come to terms with his feelings and stop trying to ignore them and push them aside. Phtt. Boys.

silent planet · 18 October 2004 · Chapter 11: Restore IV

Ahh....I really like it. Very nice.

elliska · 16 October 2004 · Chapter 11: Restore IV

Yes, I imagine Lindóriel and Melien will be having a conversation about Thranduil's suggestion about taking one's time and Thranduil's ears will be burning. You are right though--it would be absolutely unbelievable to me that Thranduil (especially at that point in history) would agree to allow someone under his protection marry anyone involved in the kinslayings, no matter how likeable he was (and this fellow seemed rather likeable). Malach should really be glad it was Thranduil and not Oropher he had to speak to, I imagine. I enjoyed the way Thranduil handled that. Well done. I am so glad to see you have more time and I hope your festival goes well. That sounds like tons of fun. Those things are right up my ally. I used to teach Medieval Span. Lit and I used to go to those things all the time. They are few and far between where I live now though (or at least good ones). Write a lot on Fall Break! Looking forward to the next chap.

silent planet · 12 October 2004 · Chapter 10: Restore III

That was very good. I really love your writing style, it flows so well. The part about keeping their funds under Thranduil's bed was hilarious. Keep writing!

lwarren · 10 October 2004 · Chapter 10: Restore III

I was so excited to see this update, as that means school is probably going fairly smoothly for you...at least enough to write some! (I hope so!) You do such an excellent job of portraying Thranduil's inate nobility, which of course affects his views on everything and everyone around him in his current situation. I am glad he was "promoted" by a sensible elf who recognized his worth and at least gave him some bearable, if not honorable, tasks to complete for him. I shudder to think of him being assigned menial tasks such as cleaning, etc. It is a wonder he didn't erupt violently at an earlier date! :-) I figured word would finally make it back to Lindomiel about his association with that other hussy (she's really not, but hey, I'm on Lin's side!)*g*, but the scene you had of her acting as a handmaiden and hearing such incriminating words from Thranduil's own mouth was exceptionally well-done! You really caught his confusion and guilt and more confusion accurately...and the little quote at the beginning about the apple not falling until it is ripe I thought was definitely appropriate for Thranduil. He is not ready, and I fear his troubles are only beginning; tho', he still doesn't understand exactly how much pain he has caused Lin. How male that when she didn't accept his apology right away, he grew angry and felt like washing his hands of the whole thing! It will probably take 3oo years for those 2 to make things up and at least start talking again! LOL Very interesting developments indeed, Coriel, and one can only pray you will be able to update soon! linda (oh, BTW, I loved Thranduil's reunion with his arch-enemy's horse, and how you kind of slyly inserted that little confrontation. More to come from that one, I'm sure. May I cast my vote now for Thranduil getting the horse eventually?)

elliska · 10 October 2004 · Chapter 10: Restore III

You are quite the romance writer! I loved every word of I Return but somehow I am surprised to see how well you are handling romance. Of course this is not your typical romance, is it? It's quite a bit more than that. More of an introspection. A romance on top of a complex life. And it is wonderful. Poor Thranduil. This would be such an impossible time for him and to have this on top of it! Very well done. I imagine midterms are burying you but I am glad you got this out. As always, I am looking forward to the next chapter. Your Thranduil is too perfect.

lwarren · 4 September 2004 · Chapter 9: Restore II

Like recognizes like! One proud, magnificent creature recognizes the kindred spirit in the other! It's good Thranduil ended up doing something he halfway liked...I would imagine it would chafe a little less that way. :-) I love the description of the horses and Thranduil's obvious way with them. Elemmerie was a surprise...learn to expect the unexpected, hmmmm? Still, he'd better watch out...thinking of one girl and flirting with another...not a healthy idea a'tal, precioussssss. And that snake, what is his name? Hopefully he will be taken care of once and for all, and Legolas will get the horse! Great chaper, Coriel. I look forward to all updates with great anticipation! linda (hope school goes well for you!)

silent planet · 31 August 2004 · Chapter 9: Restore II

Tread carefully Thranduil. Really, she sounds nice....and wary and quite tall. Alkarinwe should be careful, I think she could take him pretty well. Anyway, thanks for the update! Of course, it is keeping me from doing my worldview homework like I ought to be doing....but anyway, keep writing!

Ms. Whatsit · 31 August 2004 · Chapter 9: Restore II

It would have been something to see Thranduil marry a Noldo, wouldn't it? And now we know Alkarin's a serial offender--good thing Elemmire's too smart to marry him. You show Thranduil's feelings for Lindoriel developing very well and very subtly--first outright denial, and now it's intruding on his consciousness whether he wants it to or not. Though I wonder if Galadhmir's going to give him a hard time because the Noldorin girl was flirting with him.

Anonymous · 31 August 2004 · Chapter 9: Restore II

I am always so excited to see an update from you. This was a great chapter. I think it would be a very interesting situation for Thranduil to serve a house in such a manner. I love the interaction and introspection surrounding that situation. This such a great speech: "I did not expect the elite of Gil-galad’s household to exhibit such uncouth behavior, though perhaps I am to charitably conclude that it is simply because no one has yet bothered to instruct you in the skills of common courtesy and you simply know no better. Do I touch near the truth?" he asked smartly, cinching the second saddle. "Or is it merely that you do indeed know what manners are, yet you find some vein of perverse pleasure in making yourself a detriment to your race and your father’s name? That is, if your father’s name was aught to be proud of in the first place; it seems one can never tell when it is the Golodhrim who are concerned." I can so see Thranduil saying this. And his old nemesis coming back into play. Horror! Great chapter.

lwarren · 24 August 2004 · Chapter 8: Restore

Before I forget my favorite line - "Blessed Elbereth! She would love him forever!" That Thranduil...he's such a romantic! ;-) One would think by the effort he put into securing that rose for Lindoriel, that he really liked her seriously! It is so funny the place Thranduil occupies in this chapter....when Oropher leaves, his father tells him there is none other he would rather leave in charge of the family...right after he tells him not to let the family fall apart! His naneth tells him that the finances of the family are in his care in one breath, while in the other breath she tells him to get his feet out of the chair and stop folding his Adar's book back! :-) All those conflicting messages had to confuse him, poor elf! But by the end, he was making great plans to recover the family's fortune...he is SUCH a clever elf! Great chapter! Update when you can! :-) linda

Layangabi · 21 August 2004 · Chapter 8: Restore

Coriel--- I'm sorry to do this here, in case it's not allowed. But I can't get your contact details, for some reason. I'm doing a paper in Uni about fanfic representations of the Moriquendi and Caliquendi. As we know, Thranduil is a constant victim of these representations...you seem more familiar with Thranduil-fiction than I am, and I'd like to ask you for names of stories where you feel Thranduil is portrayed as a)greedy b) 'lesser' than Elrond and/or Galadriel c) unrelentingly xenophobic and d) prone to excess of any kind. My email's here: layangabi@yahoo.com And much thanks, btw, for everything you've written about Thranduil :)

Ms. Whatsit · 19 August 2004 · Chapter 8: Restore

"Courtesy." That's right, Thranduil, keep living in denial. Oropher doesn't seem to be the type to be miserly about anything. He is the sort of person who does everything whole-heartedly and doesn't believe in half-measures, though we know that can be to his detriment. Now I wonder what precisely Thranduil plans to do. Join the court of Gil-galad, but how?

Anonymous · 19 August 2004 · Chapter 8: Restore

I absolutely love the image of Thranduil giving that rose. Too sweet! Very romantic. And Thranduil taking charge of the family. Oropher will be very surprised with his son. What direction that surprise takes will be very interesting to see. Of course we know he will be supportive in the end but arriving at that place...well... Love your writing Coriel!

silent planet · 19 August 2004 · Chapter 8: Restore

Yay! Ok, I really liked this....poor Thranduil.....he is lucky he didn't mar his 'lovely' features in that fall, or Lindoriel may have been a little less keen on him....or maybe not. Anyway, update again soon!

Silent Planet · 10 August 2004 · Chapter 7: Rebuild III

Yay! Thanks for the update. I sure am glad it doesn't take men 600 years to grow up.....then again, being an elf certainly wouldn't be a bad thing! He's starting to return Lindoriel feelings....about time! Great chapter. I'm glad you overcame writer's block!

Ms. Whatsit · 9 August 2004 · Chapter 7: Rebuild III

Ah, I can finally get caught up on fanfic. Of course we see that Oropher does almost the exact opposite of "imposing a new order" on the Nandor. It was interesting to see his (understandably strained!) relationship with Gil-galad. And it was funny to see Loriel instructing Oropher to mind his manners. I can imagine that she'd have to tell him that often. A difficult husband, I bet. Also interesting to see that Thranduil will now be lord of the house. That'll give him a certain independence, especially if Loriel goes with Oropher. And then he'll have to give up that independence once he joins Oropher in Mirkwood. Now I wonder how you'll portray Oropher's rise to kingship, and why the Nandor and Avari decide to accept him as their king. I've always imagined it to be a combination of Oropher's personal charisma and his status as a Sindarin lord of Doriath--an heir to Thingol in a way. It'll be interesting to see how you do it.

Ginger Rich · 9 August 2004 · Chapter 7: Rebuild III

I almost gave up hope that this story would be continued. Where have you been, Coriel? I've missed your writings. But anyways, I congradulate you on another wonderfully composed chapter. I find the descriptions of the settings and characters very important in a story, and I really like the way you have detailed everything. The dialog is also beautiful. You just rock. I hope you can update soon once more.

Layangabi · 9 August 2004 · Chapter 7: Rebuild III

Coriel, don't get me wrong. I love your stories, I love what you've done with Thranduil, and the whole re-writing of Lindar history. But so far, it seems that with the Sindar, you're validating similar attitudes you've criticized in the Noldor. Regardless of what Oropher says about *not* treating the Laiquendi the same way as the Noldor treated the Sindar, his attitudes are just as condescending, and remarkably unfair. "*Lesser* brethren?!" It's not any different from how the Noldor view the Sindar, and it's precisely this view which you've constantly criticized in your works. At best, it's well-meaning condenscension towards another culture, at worst, it's arrogance, and with either attitude, things never turn out well.

lwarren · 8 August 2004 · Chapter 7: Rebuild III

I was certainly excited to see this new chapter posted for WWYO, Coriel! And a good one it is, too! Ahhh, Thranduil the Fair! :-) I can just hear the maidens sighing as he passes by, and giggling if he so much as looks their way. Such a good description of coming of age in HIS mind...and the exchange with his Naneth was so touching (my 20-year old has a song he sings to me now that starts out "Mama, Mama you know I love you...", and often says I am his "best girl"...a mother likes to hear that, yes indeed! *vbg*). Thranduil's reins....weeellllll, he can only hope to keep hold of them. Love is going to hit him so hard, his head will spin on those pretty shoulders of his. (It will serve him right...reins, indeed!) Who is this new Lord that Oropher and Thranduil met in court? I don't think I like him...he seems kind of oily...ya know what I mean? So Oropher is off to explore, and Thranduil is left behind...large and in charge! This should prove very interesting! Great chapter! linda (I hope school and your early reading assignment is going well...since you had some time to work on this, it must be! I start back this week at Inservice, which is our administration's version of HOE ...err, Hades-on-Earth!)

Anonymous · 8 August 2004 · Chapter 7: Rebuild III

So happy to see you working on this. Hope college is everything you hoped and not too much more. But I love your writing--great chapter. I love your descriptions of Thranduil.