Reviews (105)

S · 17 August 2024 · Chapter 9999: For Peace

Well, I think it's safe to say I found this fic a little later than some, but still I feel like I'm late to comment. I read it maybe a month ago now and I haven't been able to get it out of my brain since. Dakheel slides in so neatly alongside everything else about Aragorn that it's hard to remember that he wasn't there the whole time. I think that's the only neat thing about this story, which is an aspect I deeply respect. There are no neat solutions, no clear answers, no simple villains, and no clean hands. I find myself thinking about Azzam a lot. I imagine Hakim wishes that Azzam knew Dakheel lived, that the knowledge might have assuaged some of his guilt. I think Azzam did know. I think Azzam might have found the stories of mutinies (and burned down villages that he knows must have followed) far less comforting to have played a part in. But, then, would it have been better to kill Dakheel or abandon him to die? Obviously not. No clear answers, no clean hands. Aragorn gets as much blood on his hands in the business of healing as he does the business of killing. It's fascinating to trap him in a situation where neither is possible. I'm not really sure how to finish except to say thank you for this. I'll be chewing on it for a long time to come.

Suzelle · 7 September 2013 · Chapter 9999: For Peace

I didn't quite know what to expect from this story, but given the subject matter/summary my hopes were quite high. And you did not disappoint in the slightest! I absolutely loved it. You treat your OCs with such care and you bring them to life in a way that gives me great fondness for each one. Truth be told, the ending broke my heart a bit, at least when it came to Azzam. But, as you say... "This is life, and life does not fit so easily into simple tales." No one's faced with easy choices in this fic, and I appreciate how starkly you lay that out, and neither condemn nor excuse the paths Azzam chooses to take. Your Aragorn is phenomenal as always: I love getting to see a slice of his life that's rarely explored in fic, but one that informs his time as king in more ways than one (both in terms his own character growth and the necessity of establishing peace with Gondor's old enemies). And I adore, ADORE your epilogue scene. I'm a sucker for long-lost-reunion scenes, and the foundations for peace that are laid here ring so very true. Thank you for this story! I am very much looking forward to reading the timestamps and sequels :)

Suzelle · 5 September 2013 · Chapter 3: A Shuttered Light

Okaaaaay I was going to wait until I'd read the entire story and leave a review in full, but I had my iPod on shuffle in the background as I was reading this chapter, and a song called "Punch-Out" came on...right as I was reading the bit between Hakim's father and Aragorn. So. Um. I had extremely fitting background music in a super disturbing way???!?? Anyway, had to share. This is truly wonderful and I look forward to continuing!

katharein · 8 June 2013 · Chapter 9999: For Peace

I have enjoyed this story - and its time-stamps and sequels more than I can say. The characters and their psychology are convincing. I had to skim some of the torture scenes, but they were just what Aragorn might have endured "where even the stars are strange" You have a real gift - keep it coming !

rs · 6 May 2013 · Chapter 9999: For Peace

PS - I appreciate the mention of the "Luthien and Beren" tapestry. He is such a romantic!

rs · 6 May 2013 · Chapter 9999: For Peace

GREAT ending. Everything that I want to say have already be said in the reviews. I am so glad this story finally came out. Thank you caristiona for being the cheerleader! Love, love love this story and will print it out so I can read it over and over. I applaud you for keeping this reader interested and at the edge of her seat. Thank you! And I can't wait for the sequel. :)

bookworm · 3 May 2013 · Chapter 9999: For Peace

Oh wow, I loved this story! Really enjoyed seeing it from the "enemy"'s point of view - it was handled very realistically & I enjoyed the juxtaposition between time frames as well. Definitely looking forwards to a sequel if you write it!

Larner · 2 May 2013 · Chapter 9999: For Peace

I rejoice that Hakim recognized what was happening and took part in what proved to be the perfect object lesson for the lords gathered to see this audience. And I rejoice that Aragorn returned the sword even as he was so gracious to Dakheel. A wonderful illustration of Aragorn's nature and that many of the "enemy" were indeed merely common folk with their own needs, strengths, and weaknesses, sharing most ambitions, hopes, and fears with the Gondorim. Ayman is lucky to have such a father as Hakim has proved to be. Now, to see your next offering. My version of two visits Aragorn made to Harad can be found in my story "Lesser Rings." As is true of you, I see him coming to honor some of the more honorable of his hosts during his stay. Thank you so very much!

Morn · 2 May 2013 · Chapter 9999: For Peace

I've just read through most of this story in the past few days. I was interested in the viewpoint of the enemy in this. I think you portrayed the family very well, with their fear of Sauron ruling them rather than them being necessarily evil. And of course, the great twist that was coming to reward them for their kindness all those years ago. I enjoyed the story very much, an intriguing concept. :)

Celeth · 2 May 2013 · Chapter 9999: For Peace

I could almost feel the tension in the throne room as the scene between Hakim and King Elessar plays out. That was a wise move Aragorn made, to win over his advisors, especially the hardened ones who must have served under Denethor (who was not exactly forgiving, either) when Gondor was at constant war with Harad, to the idea of finally making peace with them. And his friend of old, Hakim, played a very important part in it. I wish I could have been a fly on the wall during dinner, as they reminisce on the the old days, Aragorn's stay with them, and Aragorn's tales of his adventures after he was sold to Umbar. A very lovely ending to a beautiful and exciting story. Looking forward to the sequel, and to more stories *wink, wink*

Radbooks · 1 May 2013 · Chapter 9999: For Peace

Just a wonderful story that was very well written. I like how you portrayed the Haradrim, how they were complex characters with both good and bad qualities... in short, real people! :) The way Aragorn 'used' Hakim in this last chapter was a masterful stroke that will serve both people well in the long run - at least I hope so! :) I'm looking forward to the next story. Thanks again for sharing your story with us. Radbooks.

Szepilona10 · 1 May 2013 · Chapter 9999: For Peace

I've been reading this story since the first few chapters were posted, and it is amazing! I found Hakim to be very believable and could really feel how he felt. I loved the flashback style of storytelling, though, I must admit, at first I got the names confused and thought that it was Hakim who was captured (it was just me not paying enough attention to details :P). Anyway, I am eagerly awaiting the sequel! ~Szepilona~

Linda Hoyland · 1 May 2013 · Chapter 9999: For Peace

This has been a wonderful story and I've savoured every chapter.I hope Aragorn and Hakim can remain friends. I was puzzled why Aragorn was so harsh, but you explained the reason well.I hope you will return to Aragorn and Hakim one day.This is one of the best stories(including printed books)that I've read in ages.

iboneki · 1 May 2013 · Chapter 9999: For Peace

AHHH! Words cannot express how much I loved this story. Throughout this entire work, I have appreciated your careful detail, excellent characterization, and overall skill with crafting this narrative. You, quite simply, "get" Aragorn. And since all the facets of his character are so interesting to me, this story was like a gift! It's bookmarked for future re-reads and will certainly go down as one of my favorites in all the years I've read in this fandom. Looking forward to the sequel and whatever else you write.

Anonymous · 1 May 2013 · Chapter 9999: For Peace

This was a wonderful story. I checked every day to see if you posted another chapter! Thank you for such a pleasure.

Elentarri · 1 May 2013 · Chapter 9999: For Peace

Delightful! Thank you for a wonderful story. :D Can't wait for the next one.

shirebound · 1 May 2013 · Chapter 9999: For Peace

Change is upon us and a choice now lies before Gondor. What shall we make of these days of peace? What a question to ask those who have known only war! A new Age has dawned indeed. This was a magnificent, beautifully written story, full of wisdom and great perception. Thank you for sharing it.

Mysterious Jedi · 1 May 2013 · Chapter 9999: For Peace

Wonderful ending. Of course Elessar would be merciful!

UTfrog · 1 May 2013 · Chapter 9999: For Peace

A most satisfying conclusion to a great story. You did a fabulous job throughout. Now I understand why you kept handing is cliffhangers for the Gondor court scenes. You presented a very realistic view of some of the difficulties facing the early days after the war. Looking forward to any of your stories. Your OC's are remarkable. You do a wonderful Aragorn too. Thanks so much.

Nala · 29 April 2013 · Chapter 11: Be All My Sins Remembered

I do believe that, in this chapter alone, you have captured everything I love most about Aragorn and presented it with near-heartbreaking clarity: his quiet calm, his kind dignity, his acceptance of duty, his wisdom, his unshakable belief in the things he stands for, his sense of honesty and fairness, his humilty, his resolute commitment to become whom is meant to be... Naturally, I could go on. I have fallen ridiculously in love with your writing, and I am not ashamed to admit that I may have jumped up and down (just a tad) at the mention of a sequel. Thank you so much for sharing this incredible story!

Agape4Gondor · 29 April 2013 · Chapter 11: Be All My Sins Remembered

Whoo hoo! What a great ride you've taken on us. I never thought I'd visit harad or its farmlands. This was such fun. You are a great story teller. Can't wait to see the epilogue and the sequel. Life is good!

Elentarri · 29 April 2013 · Chapter 11: Be All My Sins Remembered

Sorry - I rambled on about your Bill the Pony story and then went to look for it..... and it's not your story :( But I went and re-read all your other stories to make up for the mixing up of authors. :D I can't wait to see what else you write.

Elentarri · 29 April 2013 · Chapter 11: Be All My Sins Remembered

I can't wait for the ending. This has been a very well written story with wonderful characterisation. I felt your people were real people. Please post some updates on all your other stories as well. Especially the one about Bill the Pony. :) They are also good stories that deserve to be completed. Happy writing Elentarri

Linda Hoyland · 29 April 2013 · Chapter 11: Be All My Sins Remembered

Hooray for Aragorn!I love the way he managed to triumph even as a slave.Hakim's father paid dearly for what he did. I'm thrilled to learn there will be a sequel. Eagerly awaiting to see what happens between Hakim and Aragorn as king.

Celeth · 28 April 2013 · Chapter 11: Be All My Sins Remembered

I am thankful that Aragorn found compassion and real friendship during his captivity and eventual transfer into real slavery. I specially like that scene where Hakim watches him go out thru the gates. The story of his earlier raid in Umbar is a bit disturbing, but as he says, that's war. Still, his feeling of responsibility and how he means to make amends more than makes up for it. For a moment there I wondered how he would get the ring of Barahir back, but you wound it up neatly, as usual. It was a beautiful story and I really enjoyed it. Hoping for more.... ;-)