Reviews (429)

Dreamflower · 22 January 2005 · Chapter 27: Setting Out

This chapter is very exciting! I wondered if they would have problems on the way home, since the trip up was so very uneventful. Now my question is answered! The description of the settlement, and of the assault on the travellers was very well done. I like that Ruvemir was willing to interrupt the journey to make sure that justice was seen to be done. Looking forward to more.

TopazTook · 21 January 2005 · Chapter 26: Decisions

Oh, Folco's going to be a farmer. You have done such a nice job portraying that each character has a particular "gift" in skill or talent (not necessarily in handicrafts, as Rosie's seems to be in seeing others' needs) that I was wondering what his was. When you originally introduced him, he seemed to be a nice guy, but his special talent did not particularly stand out. I really hope we get to see Strider's reaction to the statue!

FantasyFan · 21 January 2005 · Chapter 26: Decisions

I was somewhat concerned about why Folco would leave the shire with Miriel, and live in Gondor, where things would be uncomfortable for both of them, until I realized that their children would not necessarily be hobbit-sized, but could very well reach the stature of Men (maybe short ones, but definitely taller than hobbits) if they were not mannikins. This would not do at all in the Shire, but would be accepted on a farm in Gondor. The other thing that intrigued me is the final pose settled on for Frodo. It certainly has dignity, though with all of Ruvemir's knowledge of Frodo it will also have personality. But there are both the missing finger and the Ring. And that situation never existed - once Frodo's finger was gone, so was the Ring. I can understand, though, that he must be portrayed as the Ringbearer, as well as his sacrifice and wound being acknowledged. So it is a good compromise to portray him as Elf-friend, Ringbearer and Frodo of the Nine Fingers. In my mind I see him with some of the haggard look of Frodo in Mordor but also the clear-eyed intelligence of someone who took on the burden knowingly, and that he would be in the front of the grouping, with Sam nearest. I wonder, will the statues be life-sized or of heroic proportions? If so, how will scale be indicated?

Dreamflower · 21 January 2005 · Chapter 26: Decisions

If it was acceptable to Frodo's kin and friends Strider *will* like it just fine, of course! Excellent and vivid descriptions--I could see the little statues in my mind. I'm glad Ririon will be making a good friend of Pando, and that Folco is going on to Gondor. The fact that they are kin of the Ringbearer and of Sir Peregrin and Sir Meriadoc will go a long way towards making acceptance easier for them. I'm sorry to see them all leave the Shire, though. *sigh* It was such a lovely visit.

Marion · 21 January 2005 · Chapter 26: Decisions

You mean Folco *Boffin*, no doubt :-) But why would Folco and Miriel decide to live in Gondor when Miriel was so uncomfortable in her own country that she never left her home and when she would fit (literally) better in the Shire than Folco would fit in between people who were twice his height. Folco must have friends and family a-plenty in the Shire. Miriel never left her father's farm for fear of being jeered at (no mention of friends here) She is painfully shy and ever since entering the Shire, she 'openend up'. Why, oh why do they leave for Gondor? I really don't get it...

Marion · 21 January 2005 · Chapter 25: After Yule

Although I love this story, I feel obliged to point out a typo: Sancho Proudfoot was born (according to the family trees in LotR) in the same year as Pippin. He is therefore not even of age right now. How can he have a teenaged daughter and son already?

Radbooks · 20 January 2005 · Chapter 26: Decisions

I just wanted to let you know how much I am still enjoying this story! I don't review after after chapter but I love each and every one of them. I'm was excited to see Miriel and Folco wed and going down to Gondor will be a big change for him. Also it will be interesting to have Pando (the hobbit lad) going to learn to be a sculpter as well. They have quite the little group going now! I'm looking forward to have them back in Gondor and seeing how Aragorn likes the statue and to see that all develop. Oh, I love how they honored Sam - that was wonderful! Thanks again for writing your story and for the quick updates! Radbooks

songspinner · 20 January 2005 · Chapter 25: After Yule

I've just caught up with this gloriouspiece, and this bit grabbed my heart: "Probably his mortal frame is falling away by bits, and the Light within him is shining out brighter and brighter till that’s what’s mostly left. I suspect that’s what Sam will find when at last he takes the Grey Ship meant for him. Then they’ll both come to join me.” All Ruvemir could do was nod." Wow. The insight and care in that thought, it makes Rosie so much of what I imagine she must be to be Sam's love and to understand as much as she did. Your characters speak truly and are fleshed out with their actions and words so well. -Laura

Rowan · 20 January 2005 · Chapter 25: After Yule

I have been following this series and greatly enjoying the different views of Frodo, as those who knew him are "interviewed" by Ruvemir (who in himself is a fresh and original character). And this last chapter really took my breath. I loved that you finally had Ruvemir "meet" Frodo, through a dream. (wipes away tear) Hope to see more from you; you are truly talented! -Rowan

Bodkin · 20 January 2005 · Chapter 25: After Yule

I'm glad that Rosie accepts Sam's devotion to Frodo without any jealousy. She can be genuinely happy that Sam will see him again, even though she knows that it won't be until after her own death. Interesting to see a hobbit going off to an apprenticeship in Gondor. I wonder what he'll think of it.

Bodkin · 20 January 2005 · Chapter 24: Yule Coming In

Folco and Miriel. It could be complicated - in more ways than one, but they suit each other. Sam seems to have managed to convince the Mayor of the need for education, although I don't know if he will keep up his enthusiasm when it means work and taxes. I like the living thrum of the Mallorn and the White Tree - and Ririon's recognition of it. Sam's character is appearing stronger and stronger.

Dreamflower · 19 January 2005 · Chapter 25: After Yule

Oh. Just....oh. *sniff*

Dreamflower · 19 January 2005 · Chapter 24: Yule Coming In

Oh my, I'm so glad about Folco and Miriel! That's just lovely!! The Yule gifts were marvelous and well-thought out. I think there is nothing quite so hobbity as hobbits and gifts, *sigh* We continue to learn more and more about Frodo, and how well-loved he really was. I have always thought Frodo under-valued himself, and never really realized how dearly people cared about him. His always trying to hide his own pain and sorrow was a part of that. Will Ruvemir and Miriel be spending the winter in the Shire? I would think that travel would be difficult at this time of year...

FantasyFan · 19 January 2005 · Chapter 24: Yule Coming In

The two things that touched me the most in this chapter were the Troubles List that Rosie and Sam had prepared, and Adamant Rumble's story of Frodo angry and hurting. The short line on the list Grief at Missing Him, and the fact that the list is otherwise quite short, captures the bittersweet pain of post-quest Samwise perfectly. I like Widow Rumble's story because Frodo is not some kind of saint in it: he's frustrated over his illness and angry because of all that he has been robbed of, but without even thinking of it he is still focused on doing something for somebody he loves. And again you've brough up the fact that the ring stole happiness from Frodo by keeping him from marrying. What's interesting to me is that it didn't keep him from loving. His deep friendships with Fatty and Folco, Merry and Pippin, and especially Sam could not be prevented or destroyed by carrying the Ring, and those kinds of 'attachments' that perhaps Evil Will discounted as not as important enough to prevent, turned out to be so very important after all. Such a thoughtful story - I'm really enjoying it.

Eruviluieth · 18 January 2005 · Chapter 23: A Study of a Hand

This is incredible. So much I never thought about Frodo. This is really thought-provoking, touching, and so much more. This is as worthy a memorial as the sculpture Ruvemir will do. Excellent work, please keep on.

Dreamflower · 18 January 2005 · Chapter 23: A Study of a Hand

Ruvemir has turned into quite a catalyst for Sam (and the others). He is fulfilling a function almost like a combination of confessor/therapist as the struggle to explain Frodo brings out the pain of those he left behind, none more so than Sam. I really like how easily Rosie was able to describe Frodo's hands in detail--I love your Rosie, so strong and compassionate and intelligent. On the lighter side, I enjoyed going to get Ririon measured for new clothes, and the lads of the Row inviting him out to play in the snow. Just wonderful! I can't even begin to tell you how much I am enjoying this story!!!

Bodkin · 18 January 2005 · Chapter 23: A Study of a Hand

I love the signatures on the furniture, stick, pictures and such. It makes them so much more interesting. So Rosie has been far more observant about the hands than anyone else - why doesn't that surprise me? Not someone who should be underestimated, young Rosie. You could say that she and Arwen are two of the major inspirations that kept the members of the Fellowship on track, when all other lights were failing. (I like the expression 'dearling'.) And Sam's respect for Ruvemir just grows and grows. He'd never have let him see those pictures or read the Green Book if he didn't think he was worthy of it.

Bodkin · 18 January 2005 · Chapter 22: Memories of Honor

Sitting up all night reading the Red Book! Sam must trust Ruvemir more than a little. I love the teething ring - only Sam would use his circlet for such a practical purpose. I suppose it's better than using it in the garden, too. I'm glad Rosie wouldn't let him put it back to that use. Sam might be modest, but there's no reason why those around him should be.

Bodkin · 18 January 2005 · Chapter 21: Releasing Grief

I like Rosie being able to see the lights within them. Nothing seems to surprise her much, does it?

Bodkin · 18 January 2005 · Chapter 20: Budgeford and Bag End

I'm getting behind. Folco and Miriel, huh? I like the image of Sam in communion with plants. For a very hobbity hobbit, Sam is quite elfy in some ways. Even to speaking fluent Sindarin. Interesting finds in Frodo's room.

Breon Briarwood · 17 January 2005 · Chapter 22: Memories of Honor

The scenes with their circlets.... You've gone and made me cry again!

Eruviluieth · 17 January 2005 · Chapter 22: Memories of Honor

Great chapter. I love that Sam is learning to accept some measure of honour for what he did. Rosie's right, Frodo would want him to accept all the honour offered. But I also think Frodo would have been just as happy if his circlet had been brought out to serve as a teething ring alongside Sam's. Circlets as teething rings is so Frodo and Sam - better use than sitting in a chest!

Roger Gamgee · 17 January 2005 · Chapter 22: Memories of Honor

This was absolutely beautiful...one of the best chapters yet. “I know it’s mithril!” He looked at it amazed, then raised his eyes to those of his host, and laughed in spite of himself. “You know, Master Paladin did tell me that Lord Frodo told him you’d probably use it to train the ivy or honeysuckle around, and instead I find your children are using your circlet of honor as a teething ring!” I almost fell out of my chair laughing over this. I can just picture Sam so unconcerned about being honored that he'd do something like this. It's so LIKE him! He sees himself as a simple gardener, nothing more. He's exactly what he wants to be. “It’s so sad, really--the high and the low must go together. Oh, we can do without the likes of orcs and trolls and goblins and all; but to lose the Elves as well....” I hadn't given this any thought, but you're absolutely right. With both the orcs and the Elves leaving Middle Earth, both high AND low will be leaving. An interesting point you've managed to bring up here. Rosie placed her free arm over her husband’s shoulders and looked at the circlet he wore. “Now,” she said, “You put that in that box, too, you hear? Master Frodo’s not the only Hobbit from this hole as deserves honoring, and you’d best remember that.” Then she said in a gentler tone, “And he’d be most proud to have his circlet sharing its place with yours, you know that.” I have to agree with Rose on this one. Sam deserves to be honored for his sacrifice, and I believe Frodo would indeed be proud to know that their tokens of honor share a place together, just like Frodo and Sam shared part of their lives together. Well done, Larner...this has been a marvelous story! Looking forward to the next chapter.

Dreamflower · 17 January 2005 · Chapter 22: Memories of Honor

I like this chapter, so cozy and homey at Bag End with Sam and Rosie and Folco and the children. So many little touches, such as Ruvemir splitting the wood, Ririon's cold, Miriel getting acquainted with Sam's sisters. I love that Ruvemir stayed up all night reading the Red Book. How many times have I stayed up all night reading that same story? The sweet descriptions of the things Frodo and Sam brought back, and Ruvemir's, Ririon's and Folco's reactions to them are lovely. And it's so Sam to let the children teethe on his circlet, LOL! Well, Rosie won't allow that anymore! Would they accept Miriel in the Shire if she stayed and married Folco? Well, I'm sure there would be a few who would be like Lobelia, and gossip, but the ones who truly count--the Tooks, Brandybucks, Bolgers and Boffins--if they accept her, the others would not have much reason not to. After all, they would follow the gentry's lead. Of course, Folco *could* go back South with her--I don't know how he'd do in Gondor, but as one of Frodo's kindred, he'd certainly be honored. But I'm afraid he might get homesick.

Grey Wonderer · 17 January 2005 · Chapter 22: Memories of Honor

So like Sam to honor Frodo's things and let his children use his own. I don't think he ever let himself realize just how important he was in all of this. So like his father and maybe because of him, trying to keep to his station in life.