Reviews (108)

MlleGigi · 18 September 2011 · Chapter 27: The Running Tide

I absolutely *love* the way in which you turned the Hobbits into the hobs (AKA brownies) of British folklore. In a sense, I think it's almost a shame that this series can't easily be separated from the Tolkien universe and stand on its own, because it's so well-written and creative that it deserves to be published as a commercial property (and potentially could be if it were set in a world of its own rather than one of someone else's creation).

TieAillin Alcarion · 2 August 2006 · Chapter 28: Epilogue

Hi, Jo! I've been gone a long time while the new baby Gemma Arwen has grown to the point I can get back to doing some of the things I enjoy. I read this whole thing tonight. Wonderful! I love to see how you've woven some English fairytales so that Tolkien's goal of providing a mythological background can be seen as coming into the fairytales. Tell me, is Logi meant to be the basis for legends of Loki? Since his name came down with the barbarians? As the Gray Man, I'm trying to place that in English (not Nordic) legend. It's late and maybe I can place it in the morning. Loved to read about "Queen Mab" though. Smiles, Tracey Still Walking With Elves

Lightmare852 · 10 January 2006 · Chapter 28: Epilogue

A very 'nice' ending, considering that it's the end of another age. I'm glad that Canhodano and Malawen is finally in Valinor, I almost cried when the Orc decided to stay in the last story. This story is dark, but that's why it's very touching. Looking forward to any sequels or other stories from you.

Frank Johnson · 5 December 2005 · Chapter 14: The Little Hero

good service

Inkling · 25 November 2005 · Chapter 28: Epilogue

Well, it’s nice to think that Logi will have a second chance with romance…maybe he’ll get it right this time! Thinking of his mortal families passing on reminded me of Lash, and left me wondering what became of him. And then there’s Arato, surely immortal as well…perhaps Logi and Radagast are not so alone after all? It’s fun to speculate, anyway. Well jo, a difficult tale full of darkness and tragedy, but hope and beauty as well. So very worth the read, and a fascinating glimpse of Middle-earth long after the Third Age. As it happens I’m working on a short piece also set long, long after the events of LOTR…no hobbits, though two are mentioned. So, is this really the end of Canohando’s tale at last? Whether or no, I look forward to your next story…

Inkling · 25 November 2005 · Chapter 27: The Running Tide

I’ve been looking forward to having time to read these last two chapters, and today am more than happy to leave the Thanksgiving dishes sitting unwashed to do so… A lovely ending, leaving me sorry it’s over and wishing for more… This was my favorite passage: After a while they passed beneath the shade of a woodland so ancient, it seemed a relic of another age, and the thin beams of sunlight that filtered through were like messengers of faerie, whispering of glories long departed, of battles lost and won. A remnant of the forests of Beleriand, an echo of the past that puts the current defeat in perspective…merely the latest chapter in “the long defeat.” Beautifully written! And my favorite moment: Logi’s primordial howl, reminding me of something out of Beowulf. All of it—the small coracle, Haldar the boatman—very magical and dreamlike. And it’s nice to have it straight from Radagast’s mouth, the Valar’s promise that the hobbits will endure as long as the world. Well, well done!

perelleth · 25 November 2005 · Chapter 28: Epilogue

Such a loooooong life for the orc and the brown man.... Freiga's fate makes me so sad. Hers was the worst lot in this whole story, I fear.. much as Haldar's the younger, dying alone and leaving behind nothing but his doomed father...no wonder that it would take Logi long to forgive himself... I cannot picure Logi in Valinor, though, no matter what arm twisting Radagast might contrive...I believe that his troubled and tragic nature belongs to middle-earth, and that his final redemption might come after the end... Did Arato survive too? :-) Did he cared for the Little Folk too? It was a wonderful story, jo, thanks!

perelleth · 25 November 2005 · Chapter 27: The Running Tide

I'm sorry to see this end! even if it does in such a great way! I can understand Malawen's reluctance, yet I loved Canohando's great heart. And what a nice surpirse it must have been for them to discover Haldra at the wheel! Yet Logi´s being left behind was even more painful, that he did not even get to have a proper look at his cousin! poor orc! What a wonderful tale, with the exact touches of hope through despiar, and redemption beyond expectations! I really loved it, jo, and now for the Epilogue!

Bodkin · 24 November 2005 · Chapter 28: Epilogue

Well. A sort of happy ending for Logi. But it won't last - any more than Freiga or Haldar the younger. What a lonely life for Radagast and Logi. In the end they have to feel closer to each other than the people they protect, for only the other will endure as long. I hope they make it to the Undying Lands at some point to rest from their labours.

Bodkin · 24 November 2005 · Chapter 27: The Running Tide

I'm glad Canohando got to see baby Haldar - and hear that Logi had sworn himself to the protection of the hobbits. Although I wish Malawen had looked at him. And Haldar as the boatman! That's a joy that must have made it easier for Logi to endure the end of the world as he knew it.

demeter d · 24 November 2005 · Chapter 28: Epilogue

I got notices of your last two chapters in my in-box the same day, and read them together. I realized just now, going to comment on your epilogue, that i quoted a line from here when I reviewed the previous one. Well, done, both of them. I have known so many real men just like Logi in how he treated Freiga toward the end. Gruff, always sullen and resentful at all of life's trials, yet when something serious threatens those they love, they finally realize what they have, and might lose. I wonder if the younger Haldar ever married and had children as he followed his father about the land. As I said, I have known many Logi's among the world of men. Perhaps he and his mortal "little flea" left their legacy with us. The wonder of the good professor's world is that there are so many stories to be told within it. The stories of this world and its people could go on without ending. Thank you for letting us journey with you for a time.

finafyr · 23 November 2005 · Chapter 27: The Running Tide

I have followed your stories.. since you first wrote of Frodo and Radagast and Canohando..you are very good at your writing.. but and I am glad that Logi could finally find some happiness.. but I would know what happened when Canohando landed in Valinor.. that is something that I have wanted to read about since Malawen refused to go across the sea.. could you not at least let us know what happened.. Please

demeter d · 23 November 2005 · Chapter 27: The Running Tide

Wonderful. Almost all threads tied, we go from the magical old world to the new one of men and hidden little people. The one tear at my heart strings, still, is that Logi has not forgiven Freiga, or himself. She gave up her people and her old life for him, after all. Beautifully done. It made me cry.

Rose Sared · 23 November 2005 · Chapter 28: Epilogue

Awww, you old softy, you gave us a sorta happy ending. (sorta, 'cos she's going to die, and Logi goes on and on.) What a fate. I think I will imagine, when the world has changed utterly, that the Brown one and the Grey find at least some surcease in the undying lands, and Logi is able to face his friend at last to be granted forgiveness. (Because I am a softy too.) Thank you for this truly epic tale, your wonderful characters and the redemption of the hobbits so that they may live on into this barren world. Love your work and your imagination and will be looking out for anything else you write. Rose

Lindelea · 23 November 2005 · Chapter 28: Epilogue

Couldn't read this one because of the summary, but when I read the description of the Epilogue I thought I'd dip a toe in. Sad, bittersweet, yet ultimately hopeful. Beautifullly written, as always.

Inkling · 15 November 2005 · Chapter 26: The Road Not Taken

Oh no, not the Tower! I liked to think of that enduring, sort of like a monastery in the Dark Ages. Well, at least the stones are still standing. On the bright side, I’m relieved that the way West is still open to Canohando, as I’d hoped it would be. And that Radagast will stay on, now that he’s had his “sabbatical.” AND—what a wonderful thought that Haldar may be waiting for them in Valinor, or at least getting rehabbed in the Halls of Mandos! And if he is…well, he’s not the only immortal offspring, is he? *thinks of Osta, and maybe even…?* Ah well, enough speculation! Looking forward to the exciting conclusion…as I’m sure it will be! Inkling P.S.—having read demeter d’s review, I have a story rec for both of you, if you haven’t already read it: Werecat’s “Dolor Meus,” posted here at SofA. In this lovely, deeply moving blend of Middle-earth history, medieval Christianity, and Celtic mythology, Radagast’s connection with the real St. Francis is very strong indeed. I don’t want to spoil it by saying more than that…it’s quite short and well worth the read.

Rose Sared · 15 November 2005 · Chapter 26: The Road Not Taken

Ah, softly, softly we get to the end of this massive tale - what will you do without these compelling characters whispering in your ear? What will I do without your updates. Sigh I love the way you keep all your characters in character, and still allow the mercy of the Valar. Great writing Rose

demeter d · 14 November 2005 · Chapter 26: The Road Not Taken

So Canohando and Malawen might yet go to the Undying lands. They have certainly earned the blessing. Both of them have found redemption by losing themselves in an age of service to Hobbits and Men. But is Arato ready to lose his parents and assume leadership by himself? On the other hand, are any of us ready when such times come? Arato and his band of Quardians have been blessed to be raised in the last of the Elven light from the past age. Walt Whitman in his "Intimations of Immortality" writes of the light we all are born with slowly fading into the light of day as we grow older. I see this happening to your people now. Yet, there still is light. And yet, those open to it can still perceive the echoes of the light before. And, I am very much enjoying the return of Radagast. So he has had a long sabbatical, but is now ready to return to work. It is a nice thought that he might still be at work in this shadowed old world! You know, the comparison to Dumbledore was good, but I have also found something rather "St. Francis-ish about Radagast. For certain, that spirit he represents is still at work in our world. Anxiously awaiting the next chapter!

perelleth · 14 November 2005 · Chapter 26: The Road Not Taken

So Canohando has been given passage to the west? (I did not read the first story) That was a great, welcome surpirse! I so dearly wish that he manages to reach that boat! Radagast's matter of factly and practical approach to things is such a relief here. I'm wondering what's going to happen to Arato, though.. shall he learn to be a gardener, or to dig a hole where he can fit? I really liked him so much. And I'm so looking forward to Logi's redemption. The poor orc has learned his lessons well, but in the worst of manners. Yet I'm hoping for the light at the end of his tunnel since he killed his cousin. BTW, I was impressed by Melawen's decay, but it is only too understandable, after all... Have I told you how much I like Canohando's gruffy manners? great job, jo, agin, I'm dying to get back home for Christmas to have time enough to sit back and re read it as a whole. I'm so loving it, in many levels!

perelleth · 7 November 2005 · Chapter 25: Escape

Well, now you got me laughing the whole chapter away" Guardians learning to be gardeners and Canohando's gruffiest side... Radagast being Dumbledore.. apologies, but it brough him to mind with the calmness with which he "made up" breakfast while the others were fretting.. and the funny, well humoured hobbits.

Rose Sared · 7 November 2005 · Chapter 25: Escape

Ah how nice to see the hobbits with backbone and direction. I need Radagast here at dinner time when I am supposed to produce an instant meal sometimes with as little ingredients! Hah Good to see a future for all these folk we have come to love. Rose

perelleth · 3 November 2005 · Chapter 24: A Little Tenderness

A little tenderness, exactly what we were needing. The child's been a true blessing, as we all hoped he would, and poor Logi's pubsihment is still oging on....I cringed when he understood that the hobbits thought that it was Canohando killing his own people, when it was him! How guilt must be eating at him! YEt the hobbit at the end spoke much as Radgast would have, didn't he? I almost thought it was him at first! Your hobbits are extraordinadily hobbity, jo, and it was with such dgnity again that he let them remain and give their help, ieven if they did not needed it anymore.... I was thinking about a line in the prologue I believe of LOTR, when Tolkien says that they still live among us... so the point here is what about the guardinas and their lot in ME? Lovely, lovely chapter, thanks!

Inkling · 3 November 2005 · Chapter 24: A Little Tenderness

Logi and his son got me all choked up! Maybe he won’t need the Brown Wizard for his salvation after all… And love the Hobbit. Fled the Marish, eh? Well there may be no more Buckland, but surely there are Brandybucks. Is this one, perchance?

Bodkin · 3 November 2005 · Chapter 24: A Little Tenderness

So the baby is elven-fair. And the hobbits are looking after Logi as much as the reverse. The hobbits are proving very good at hiding. Which can only be a good thing. I look forward to seeing what happens here.

rose sared · 1 November 2005 · Chapter 24: A Little Tenderness

Ah the ever surprising hobbits, taken to hiding to the manor born, and cannier than anyone would think. I wonder who is protecting whome here? Nice chapter Jo. rose