Reviews (103)

Bodkin · 26 October 2006 · Chapter 7: A worrying interlude

Part of me feels that their relationship would get off on a better foot if they didn't rush into more - er - intimate relations. But then another part feels that at least they are both being quite pragmatic about the inevitable and they should just lie back and think of Rohan. Or Gondor - or whatever seems more appropriate at the time. It would, at least, have been nice for them to share a conversation or two without an audience of dozens before they started slipping off the silken chemises - and I suspect Lothiriel wouldn't have minded a bit of rehearsal for the big night. Still... The picture of her trying to decide exactly how to look as if she's not shaking in her shoes is delightful. I'm sure Eomer will appreciate it. More soon? Please?

Faramir of Gondor · 24 October 2006 · Chapter 7: A worrying interlude

Hurry up and write the next one!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! *giggle* I cant wait!

Dreamflower · 24 October 2006 · Chapter 7: A worrying interlude

Oh dear, poor Lothiriel! But I am quite sure Eomer will set her at her ease.

Rugi · 24 October 2006 · Chapter 7: A worrying interlude

I really love the little notes of comparison between the Gondorians and the Rohirrim that you sprinkle through out. You show that they have different manners and culture without judging either group. I love the image of Eomer shouldering his way through a crowd at his wedding. Ratcheting up the tension aren't you? :) Again, I think your Lothiriel is perfect - you haven't turned in her into a complete wreck but you still show how nervous she would (very naturally) be. And the little glimpses we get of Eomer's personality are so ... alluring. If you have to marry someone you hardly know, Eomer seems ideal.

Deiliah · 24 October 2006 · Chapter 7: A worrying interlude

I'm really enjoying this story! I love the Eomer you've portrayed, let's hope he keeps up the thoughtful consideration! I admire Lothiriel for her courage and determination in the face of so many drastic changes and, no doubt, challenges to come. I'm especially enjoying your detailed descriptions of the physical surroundings, so that while we feel what's going on in her head, we can also see through her eyes. Thanks for sharing.... I'm looking forward to the next update!

Rugi · 18 October 2006 · Chapter 6: An eventful afternoon

I am enjoying how you balance the tension and nervousness that would come from marrying into another culture sight-unseen with the inevitable humor that also comes from being exposed to new cultures and people. It was a nice counter-point to Lothiriel's nervousness to have Gimli and the dog both lighten the mood and extend the tension. I really love how kind your Eomer is - he seems to be making every effort to have Lothiriel's transition be as smooth and painless as possible. And I'm glad she wore her Dol Amroth dress - it was a nicely balanced bid for independence. Lothiriel is great - so ready to do her duty and make an effort (as she would be raised to be) but so human and worried too.

Bodkin · 18 October 2006 · Chapter 6: An eventful afternoon

One can hardly blame Lothiriel for her frustration - the attitude of some of the Rohirrim doesn't take her into account at all! Much as they admire Eomer, you would think that some would have the empathy to realise that she has been plucked from her home to be dumped in a strange place - and that she has as little knowledge of Eomer as he has of her. Still - there are probably a few frustrated wannabe queens around who wouldn't care too hoots about that! The frock sounds gorgeous. It will certainly attract a lot of male admiration and female envy. And between the dogs and the elf/dwarf arrival, surely enough has already gone amiss with the ceremony that the rest of the day will pass perfectly smoothly. Won't it?

Dreamflower · 16 October 2006 · Chapter 6: An eventful afternoon

Ah, yes! I recognized that particular costume at once from the description! I've always loved the look of it, and was quite discouraged to discover that later research had indicated Norris's rendering was inaccurate. I don't much care--I've always thought it lovely, and it certainly would be the perfect dress for Lothiriel! What an eventful wedding it was! I loved the unflappableness of Eomer and Elessar, LOL!

Dreamflower · 16 October 2006 · Chapter 5: A rude awakening

Aerin tickles me! I love that she has turned into Lothiriel's staunch and firm defender! I'm seeing echoes perhaps of the stories of Denethor's wife Finduilas, and maybe some of Morwen of Lossarnach, which might have influenced how the people of Rohan might percieve Lothiriel. She will have to go some, to convince them she is her own person, and not just a reproduction of some stereotype from Gondor.

Dreamflower · 16 October 2006 · Chapter 4: An understated welcome

Oh dear! I hope Elfgyuu does not give Lothiriel too much trouble. But at least she has an ally in Bryhtwyn! And I think I'm going to like Hasopad.

Dreamflower · 16 October 2006 · Chapter 3: An interesting journey

Well, it's fairly clear that Eomer, at least, did not have politics on his mind when he offered for Lothiriel. I loved the part about her horse, and his instant acquiescence to putting her out to pasture, and the discovery of his sense of humor.

Dreamflower · 16 October 2006 · Chapter 2: A calm acceptance

I love Eowyn's forthright conversation. I think that she and Lothiriel will grow to be fast friends. And Aerin looks to be an interesting young lady. She may end up being a handful for her mistress--but I think she will do a good job of keeping Lothiriel's spirits up. Aerin sounds a bit like a female Pippin to me.

Dreamflower · 16 October 2006 · Chapter 1: An unwarranted proposal

Ah! This one is to be an arranged marriage scenario. I look forward to seeing this play out!

Rugi · 7 October 2006 · Chapter 5: A rude awakening

I love how you simultaneously show Lothiriel as a strong, capable person while showing that she is also a little out of her depth and vulnerable. I thought you did a great job when she goes down her list of reasons for agreeing to marry - you show that she is a methodical and practical person while at the same time making her human. I also like that not everyone in Rohan is falling over themselves with delight at the thought of the marriage - the tough housekeeper and the more fair hostess provide a realistic look of people facing a foreign queen. And poor soggy Eomer - standing under a waterfall - hah! I hope he doesn't come down with a cold on his wedding day. It would be rather inauspicious.

Inglor · 7 October 2006 · Chapter 5: A rude awakening

Ah the anticipation. Not hers, ours. You weave a wonderful web. The details are such that they give a crisp view of the setting yet are not cumberous. One of my favorite things about your writing. Very clever how you have characterized Eomer without him even being in the chapter... and the effect on his soon to be wife. Your writing is spoiling me.

Bodkin · 7 October 2006 · Chapter 5: A rude awakening

I love the picture of Aerin offering to share what knowledge she possesses of - er - marital matters. And I am glad that Lothiriel's sister-in-law ensured she's not totally ignorant of the ... activities required of her. I'm not sure that annoying the housekeeper is the wisest of moves though. The more Byrhtwyn says - and the more she shows Lothiriel - the less likely it seems that Eomer is the type of person who would go for a marriage quite this arranged! He seems the sort who might accept its sense, but who would try to meet and court the other party rather before the wedding. And once he and Lothiriel knew each other, it wouldn't be an arranged marriage in the sense of the Gondorian ambassador sharing the King of Rohan's bed. With or without a bolster! He has done a good job in designing rooms to appeal to her and choosing furniture to suit her. Not to mention providing adequate bathing facilities. Now they just need to spend some time talking to each other. I'm looking forward to the rest of the day. (And the post-banquet developments.)

Alison H · 7 October 2006 · Chapter 5: A rude awakening

It was good to see Lothiriel starting to return blunt speech with like and get some answers from Byrhtwyn about how people perceive her.She will have a lot to learn, but she is a Princess and her upbringing will help her deal with her new household staff, though Aerin is doing a fine job already in changing things a little to suit her mistress.Aerin is breath of fresh air--I like her personality and she is a good friend already to the nervous Queen-to-be. The little touches Eomer made to ease Lothiriel's comfort upon her arrival were really touching, especially the desk and the bookcase.That was a nice touch, though I had to laugh at the feather bolster remark.As if that would stop a man like Eomer! It was good that Lothiriel felt like giggling! The beggining of this story got me thinking.Lothiriel is in a very emotional state, with lots of tears.Could her state have anything to do with expectancy? Eomer is using the cot, too, so maybe he doesn't know how to comfort her? Just guessing--I love this take on Eomer and Lothiriel's marriage. Update soon! Ali.

Bodkin · 1 October 2006 · Chapter 4: An understated welcome

Well - they're talking. Amiably, too. And joking! And Lothiriel likes horses and dogs - and admired the Golden Hall. It seems as if Lothiriel has made her first friend. I hope Eowyn's letters to Byrhtwyn expressed definite approval of Lothiriel - it might help if the female population know that the White Lady looks on her as a friend. Things look promising for the wedding - at the moment. But I'm sure it can't last. After all, Lothiriel didn't seem too happy at the beginning of chapter 1.

Rugi · 29 September 2006 · Chapter 4: An understated welcome

I really like your realistice portrayal of probable upper-class life. You do a great job of portraying people who probably expected to have to make a political marriage and thus are both making an effort to make a good marriage as well. I like that Lothiriel's father didn't really hesitate to betroth her to a person he approves of. A princess would expect no less. I also like Lothiriel as a narrator - she is an interesting and real person, making the best out of a discombobulating situation but she also is an accute enough observer to make the other characters stand out too. I also love how her position as narrator makes the reader want to learn more about Eomer and Rohan while Lothiriel is learning. I look forward to reading more.

Lera · 28 September 2006 · Chapter 3: An interesting journey

It's been a while since I've delved into any fanfiction and I'm wholeheartedly enjoying yours! Your Lothirel's personality has really captured me and the way they behave tends to fit the times perfectly. The only suggestion I have is that occasionally there will be a phrase that doesn't seem to fit at all, like when you had someone "shut up." It just didn't flow with the language of the day. But aside from that I can't wait to read what you have coming! It's amazing you're giving the exact details I want to hear about. There's nothing I feel the need to skip over, because I want to read about the feelings and thoughts about this obviously capeable and strong lady, who is so wonderfully human and that I can relate to. I look forward to more chapters!

Bodkin · 25 September 2006 · Chapter 3: An interesting journey

Well - Eomer is making quite a good impression. Smiling. Looking good. Showing appreciation of her mare. And telling her he wouldn't marry just for political advantage. However - that she could understand. She must want to take him to one side and find out what else might be his motivation because she'll be pretty certain that one dance won't have been enough to win his love! Not a good moment for their conversation to be interrupted.

Faramir of Gondor · 24 September 2006 · Chapter 3: An interesting journey

When is the next chapter comming??:)

Faramir of Gondor · 24 September 2006 · Chapter 1: An unwarranted proposal

I LOVE THIS!!! This is the kindof things I like to read. Way to go Lady Bluejay!!!:)

Bodkin · 18 September 2006 · Chapter 2: A calm acceptance

I love Lothiriel's resignation - and her dignity and her determination not to whinge. And her view of herself as an ambassador expected to lie with the foreign head of state. It certainly seems to be how everyone around her is treating her. It's just as well Eowyn was there to give her some insights into the human being who will become her husband. I think Eowyn learned enough about Lothiriel to know she would welcome her as a sister-in-law, even if the two parties most involved were still strangers. The maid's happiness at going to Rohan is probably good for both of them - better, at any rate than Moreth's disapproval. Only poor Lothiriel is behaving here as if she is a matron rather than a girl of twenty - she is too resigned to her fate. I'm rather hoping that she and the explosive Eomer have a rather less bloodless marriage. And they have met at last - but I doubt they will get to do more than nod at each other until after the wedding. Well - a 'welcome to Rohan' / 'thank you, Eomer King, perhaps, but I don't expect there will be time for them to hold a conversation. Still. Lothiriel probably has the self-discipline to smile and behave like a queen. At least until she is alone. Looking forward to more

Alison H · 17 September 2006 · Chapter 2: A calm acceptance

Poor Lothiriel! How nervous she is and full of doubt.Not knowing your bethrothed apart from snippets from friends and family would drive anyone to flee, but Lothiriel has a duty to perform and she does it admirably. I laughed at her few sardonic words to Eowyn, especially the 'bookish' comment.Lothiriel has a good sense of humour and that virtue may help her, I think. I'm glad she finds her betrothed attractive, especially his eyes.That's a good start.I'm eager to know what Eomer thinks of his future wife! Your opening remark reminded me of Henry VIII who comissioned the famous artist Hans Holbein to paint a portrait of Anne of Cleeves.He painted her at a flattering angle but when she actually met the King he thought her so hideous that he couldn't consumate the marriage.Thomas Cromwell, who brokered the marriage, was executed soon after! Thank goodness Lothrirel doesn't have to face *that* possibility! I really enjoyed this chapter.Update soon. Ali.