Reviews (633)

AspenJules · 31 May 2006 · Chapter 22: So It Begins

Oh, I'm SO glad that Minas Tirith is more civilized and to Penny's... well... liking? Or at least not terribly appalling. It wouldn't be such a bad place to live then, as long as she doesn't have to be a servant and empty other people's bedpans! Having been in a hospital I remember how humiliating that can be, even when you're sick and not up to handling anything your own self. Oooooh.... and Halladan..... hmmmmmm... how badly is he injured, I wonder? Poor guy... but do I sense something there? As much as I love Lindir, I just don't think that's at all a possible pairing, but Halladan? Oh, and poor Hirvell. I can't BELIEVE you killed off Hirvell!!! *growls slightly, with a lump in the throat* I have a feeling, am I right?, that he was killed protecting Halladan, or at least in the same skirmish where Halladan got injured. Lindir's reaction to realizing Hivell got killed was beautifully done, as was Penny's grieving over his death before she ever got to meet him. OH... and I LOVED the slightly un-gallant Aragorn insisting on knowing what new mischief Penny had gotten into in Rohan. Erestor trying to protect her, and Aragorn insisting on knowing, and then LAUGHING!! How totally terrible of him!! *snickers* Nice touch of reality to such a bigger-than-life character. Ok, one last thing I'll mention - the fact that nobody at the head table seems to think of Penny or even notice her when she leaves. Such a real touch - so non Mary-Sueish. Rather than overshadowing the King and Queen-to-be and people like Elrond, Galadriel and Celeborn, and Gandalf, she was just what she should have been - someone else who happened to be there. A lovely touch that the writers of Mary Sues could never understand or discipline themselves to write.

fantasia · 31 May 2006 · Chapter 29: A Cold Dish

I love this chapter, it is not really “serious plot” chapter, but was incredible refreshing and believe me, I was laughing aloud when I read it. I was in my work (pretending that I was working while reading) and everybody was looking me as if I was crazy, I mean, no one believed that I have that much fun when working, Ai, poor Lindir, but as the title of the chapter say, the vengeance is a cold dish, or something like that. I hate Lady S…, whatever is her name. I can see Penny having a lot of problems adjusting to the court live, even having the support of the King and Queen, well she can always run to Ithilien and be with the elves settled there. I always picture the live of court as some dangerous battle field, do you know? Like that book (and movie) Dangerous Liaisons. Well, another wonderful chapter, I can hardly wait for the festival. Do you think that someone there will ever pronounce Penny’s name right? I mean her real name, Penelope. It will be interesting to see her telling the history behind her name. OK, it just that I love the Iliad and The Odysseus, and it will show the elves and the others beautiful stories about Penny’s world. HA! Did you imagine her telling the elves that many people in the modern world think them as little creatures helping Santa with children’s gifts? I bet that the elves will be speechless. It just a crazy idea that came to my mind, never mind. Thanks again for your story, keep working, I really look forward for more chapters.

AspenJules · 31 May 2006 · Chapter 20: I'm H.A.P.P.Y.

Poor Penny. What a dilemma she finds herself in, which is only made more clear by the illness she suffered. Where in ME could she find a place to truly fit in? Culturally, in many ways, she is most like the elves, but with their incredible beauty, imperviousness to disease, and immortality... well, those make a pretty wide gulf. I think while I would love the elves, those differences would begin to take a toll on me and my self-image. But in the world of men, there are the cleanliness issues, as well as the differing ideas about roles of men and women which I suspect would also pose a problem for her. Being so unfamiliar with the everyday skills of this world would make it very difficult for her to run a household. Yet, if she is to stay in ME, which I hope for her (I think), she will not want to be alone, as in single, her whole life... and truly, what hope is there that there would be an elf who would want to marry her, especially with so many due to leave so soon. Perhaps, much as I hate to say it, it would be best for her to return to her time. Maybe, with the changes she has gone through she will be a different enough person to change her circumstances back in her original life. hmmmmm... as I said, quite a dilemma.

Mopsy · 31 May 2006 · Chapter 29: A Cold Dish

Poor little muddling Rhimlath. I agree with Glorfindel that he's a fatuous windbag but I do feel sorry for him and am glad he's made a new friend. I'm so glad Penny got to see the library. Erestor's such a sweetheart (and I'm such a fangirl. I would have been in his little crowd of admirers at the wedding). Good on Penny for getting back to Lindir. Very neatly done. As ever, a brilliant chapter, boz! Thanks for the story. My home and my loved ones are far, far away on the other side of the world and it's nice to be able to keep up with this story I first started reading before I left. :)

Kitty · 30 May 2006 · Chapter 29: A Cold Dish

Ah, I see – Rhimlath was no match for the legendary Balrog slayer. A pity he slipped *evil grin* Need I to tell you how much I have enjoyed the banter? I think save of the fascinating idea to explore the reactions of a modern day girl thrown into Middle-earth it is this humour why I like your stories so much. Oh, and by the way, I can see the elves practically standing in line before the librarian for all the little corrections in the books. You’re right, it had to come to that! Most of them lived through these times, after all. Poor Istdor. Istdor seems to be a nice guy, so enthusiastic about the history of his land and the perfect one to tell Penny everything she wants to know (and a lot more she probably didn’t want to know). He promises a lot of fun, too, considering how much he resembles Rhimlath in this prospect. Though I am not sure Lindir thinks it to be fun *grin* Penny certainly paid him back for some of his misdeeds. And Rhimlath was no help for poor Lindir, either. I *loved* that!

AspenJules · 30 May 2006 · Chapter 8: To Orc Or Not To Orc

I can just imagine the difficulty Penny would have believing in the reality of orcs. I'm afraid I would have been much like her, far too curious for my own good. And you know - climbing *down* mountains can actually be quite as painful as going up, since you're still fighting gravity. I learned this all too painful truth hiking 8 miles down a mountainside in Yosemite. My thighs and knees took days to recover! Oh, and you know... that Erestor can really be a pain in the bottom sometimes! LOLOL "“Indeed,” Erestor smiled. “Now, are you up to reading do you think? Or shall we review your Westron vocabulary?” Penny groaned at the mere mention of it. Which was a bad move since Erestor then opted for the Westron quite deliberately." STINKER! LOL

Fire · 30 May 2006 · Chapter 29: A Cold Dish

Poor Lindir.. NOT! I got pretty weird looks here because I was laughing out loud at that (I'm at work right now). I love how Penny finally got back at him. I can see where Penny's imagination was taking her with the wrestling :) Love reading this so please keep it up.

AspenJules · 30 May 2006 · Chapter 5: The 'Dorwinion Barrel' Escapade

Ok, there were SO many funny parts to this chapter! I loved all the elves being startled by her shout of surprise and dismay at the cold water. I guess it just doesn't do to exclaim at the top of your lungs in the middle of an armed camp, huh? And the "Barrel Escapade"?? Oh my oh my!! I love the image of Erestor showing up at the river grate in his altogether! I can only imagine what that elf on guard thought! I also enjoyed Penny's discomfiture (sp? sorry) at realising she had been teasing an elf of quite high stature, though I notice it didn't phase her for long. However, my favorite bit that had me giggling for quite a while every time I thought of it was Erestor's and the other elves dismay at her treatment of her hair. “That is beside the point,” muttered Erestor, still wincing a little. “Leave her, Lindir,” said Celebdor. “If she wants her hair to be full of split ends and looking like a crow’s nest, let her get on with it.” *snorts* Oh, that's priceless!!

Dreamflower · 30 May 2006 · Chapter 29: A Cold Dish

A brilliant chapter, from the beginning, with the counting (or not *grin*)of the bells, to the end. I truly loved Penny's idea of payback. She got Lindir in *exactly* the same trap he had caught her in! Not only that, but she did both Rhimlath and Istdor a favor, by introducing them to kindred spirits. (I can see Rhimlath, in spite of himself, forming a fast friendship with this mortal, and finding, as does Legolas, that friendship with a mortal can have its downside.) A geeky Elf and a geeky Gondorian together--the world will never be the same! I also enjoyed very much her encounter with the women. Meresal and her mother will, I think, prove admirable allies when Sidhwen begins to put her claws out--as I have to say I am assuming will happen sooner or later. I like the way you are portraying Sidhwen as an exception, and not the rule--it appears most of the Gondorian noblewomen are very nice, and some of them very courageous and outspoken, as well. Penny will find having them as friends a very Good Thing. As to the pince-nez: don't fret. Rudimentary spectacles were in use in RL history as early as the fifteenth century. And given the high praise JRRT had for the state of medical knowledge in Minas Tirith, I don't think it is any sort of stretch at all to think that spectacles would have been available, if rare.

Miss · 30 May 2006 · Chapter 29: A Cold Dish

"Penny was late for her meeting with Erestor, but then the chimes from the bell on the Tower of Ecthelion confused the heck out of her, so it was perhaps to be expected. The hours were counted from sunrise..." Well one thing is for sure, with each new chapter you mention something I don't even think about. A great and effective toole to make this story 'authentik'. Why haven't you choose to make them register the time with a long stick. I can't explain what a mean, because I am not English and therefore my English is not that good. But I am sure you'll understand what I mean, with your history nolidge.... The tour in the library was wel written! I liked that Rimlath got a new friend with the same interest. And Penny gets here pay-back! Wonderful!!!!! I expect some pay-back action from Lindir too.....I'm looking forward to it. :) :)

fantasia · 18 May 2006 · Chapter 28: Life Goes On

Hello Boz, First, I’ll tell you that I haven’t review a fanfiction ever, mainly because my first language it is not English, though I live in USA and use it every day. I’m a compulsive fanfiction reader, every day I check for my favorites’, believe me, you are one of them. The reason why I’m reviewing your job is because, of course I love it and because I usually read all the reviews and your answers, so I can get some clarifications, get an idea of what are you and other are thinking and maybe, hopefully get some “previews” for next chapter. Anyway, I was reading the reviews and I saw that one about how long will take you to say Thank you and I just got mad, annoyed. Let me tell you, do not pay attention to his/hers comments, there is always moron people around that don’t know what to do with their time and you should not wait your energy nor your precious time to even answer them. My interpretation about the reviews is that is a channel, a way to thank you for your job, for the beautiful stories that you write. It is too, a way to make suggestions, ask questions, help you if necessary, but you don’t have to answer back, it is our ways to say how we appreciate your job, please, don’t apologize to him/her, we have a proverb in my country and I quote in Spanish “A palabras necias, oidos sordos” (something like to fool words, deaf ears) . Truly, I amazed that you have time to write, having a toddler around you, I know what I said, I have one too. Well, now that I’m reviewing, let me tell you that I love your story, I check every weekend, it really make my day when I see an update, reading is something that I enjoy and since I discovered the fanfictions sites, I read every weekend, when I have time, I’m very selective of what I read, so I do have my favorites authors. Back to Penny, I love both of your stories about her; I really would like more of her, a trilogy maybe? Penny/Hallaban together, no doubts. He reminds me the romantic heroes, you know so sad, sweet and honorable at the same time. Love all your characters, the elves are priceless. I would like to se more interaction between Penny/Legolas/Aragorn, more about the fellowship, something like her asking details, things that only they will know, you know, more “proof” of that she is not lying. What about asking Aragorn what he saw or felt when he called Faramir back, or how annoyed he was when Legolas walk over the snow, I confess, Legolas is one of my favorites characters, along with Faramir/Eowyn, so beautiful and romantic stories and complete overpassed in the movies. About Halladan and the other Dunadan, will they become Lords of Arnor, get lands to provide them and their descendents of an income? We know about Gondor and Faramir became a Prince, but what about the others, in a society where titles and nobility meant a lot that should be a concern, besides, a payment for their loyalty, I guess. Maybe they live from the King’s income, as paid Knights, but what about their children? It was a very serious concern on those times, and a noble title open a lot of doors and give you prestige, because at that time most of the titles were earning by your services, a way to reward the people. Well, for being my first review, it is very long. Really, the only thing that I ask you is to update your story (please, please once a week). Keep working and create more, more stories, there are many people that really appreciate them. Forgive my languages mistakes, please. Thanks.

Bodkin · 18 May 2006 · Chapter 28: Life Goes On

I love the conversation with Erestor. And the brightness in his face as he contemplates his reunion with Mrs Erestor. It is terribly difficult to imagine the timescale of elven experience - three thousand year old partings that will seem as nothing. The male competition over archery and blade skills - that just goes to show that nothing changes, though, so perhaps the passage of a few millennia doesn't seem particularly meaningful. I look forward to seeing just how skilful Rhimlath is ... although he might just find himself an unavoidable commitment somewhere else. Poor Penny. Deciding to leave this bunch of elves is going to be tough on her - they are probably closer to her than anyone has been since she was a kid - but remaining with them is going to be impossible, too. Even if they don't sail with Elrond, she will be busy getting old, while they will remain unchanged. Impossible stress for both sides. (some could have been a little more discrete or subtle You might want to check out the difference between 'discreet' and 'discrete'. I've been fighting the urge to mention it, but I've given in.) I'm looking forward to more. Hopefully, Halladan might make an appearance in the next chapter and he and Penny can extend their acquaintance.

Kitty · 17 May 2006 · Chapter 28: Life Goes On

*snicker* You know, I loved it so much how Frodo took over the Westron lessons at breakfast and Rhimlath didn't dare to say anything at all! And to have Pippin and Sam correct Rhimlath *rofl* Even more amusing were Rhimlath and Glorfindel. I wonder what poor Faramir thought about the great elven lords behaving like elflings *grin* But then, Rhimlath got what he deserved for speaking so condescending of Erestor! The conversation between Penny and Erestor was another matter. Of course it is irritating for Penny to hear on the one hand she has time to decide where she will live but on the other hand everyone assuming that she will stay in Gondor. Hopefully that will stop now. The rest of this talk about the way mortals and immortals deal with grief and loss was interesting, while Penny's experiences in the first and second circle were rather depressing. It's not easy to see so much destruction and loss.

Anonymous · 16 May 2006 · Chapter 28: Life Goes On

It’s not possible for me to reply to every review How long does it take to say thank you?

Andromida · 16 May 2006 · Chapter 28: Life Goes On

Loved it!your description of Minas Tirith makes it feel real like i'm watching it so much detail,can't wait for the Fete sounds like it's going to be hilarious glad to see Penny is enjoying herself alot more thanks Andromida

Fire · 9 May 2006 · Chapter 27: Echoes

I just love you're story and this chapter is very nice. I can imaging many of the elves have lost loved ones and will not talk all that much about them. The lady's around Arwen are surely in for some surprises I'm sure :) and I can't wait to see the way it will happen.

Kitty · 9 May 2006 · Chapter 27: Echoes

‘Such chivalry,’ she thought, grinning, as she climbed the stairs to her chambers. ‘Being walked to my door and chaperoned by some tall, dark, handsome warrior. I could get used to this.’ Well, Penny is not the only one ;) Of course I was pleased with her reaction to what the Ladies said about Halladan. And I hope to see Arwen deal with the ‚condescending cows’, too. It could be amusing *grin* The rest brought home once more how many elves fell at Dagorlad and how much the survivors miss them. No wonder they look forward to sailing West if it means they will see so many friends and relatives again who are lost to them as long as they remain in Middle Earth. And I think it only reasonable that Celebrían had some ellith with her. It doesn’t mean anything that in the books it is not mentioned, given how little we know about it all. Poor Eleniel and Lindir, I am so sorry for them.

Even · 8 May 2006 · Chapter 27: Echoes

Hi! Another wonderful chapter. I like your writing, and the way you let the characters interact. Please Continue soon! cu even

Daynawayna · 8 May 2006 · Chapter 27: Echoes

"...I shall instruct one of Arwen’s ladies-in-waiting to befriend you and introduce you to those of the court you did not meet yesterday.” I found this a bit odd... probably correct nonetheless, but I had to giggle. Aragorn telling someone "you will befriend her."... I imagine the 'chosen one' possibly pouting, "But I don't want to befriend her..." LOL :) Lovely chapter again, Boz and as always, worth waiting for. I enjoyed the insights into Halladan and Lindir and Eleniel. You've given this story so much life and flesh.. I continue to be awestruck. It will be a sad day when this story comes to an end.

Mopsy · 8 May 2006 · Chapter 27: Echoes

I have to say that this is my favourite chapter out of both this story and its predecessor. So unspeakably moving...I've often wondered about why Eleniel is single, since she seems popular with the ellyn, and clearly appreciates the gorgeousness that is a male elf (I'm thinking of the comment she made way back around the time of the River Incident about being able to think of an ellon or two she wouldn't mind seeing in nothing but leggings). I was really sad to read of Lindir's loss, too. Oh, what a sad thought, that he's in love but she was taken away...but it's beautiful too, because he's going to see her again, and that time it getting nearer rapidly. At least he knows she loves him in return. Eleniel doesn't have that certainty. *nervetwitch* It's nice to get a bit more of an idea of Mireth and Eleniel's ages, too. I'd always thought they were quite young, simply because of the fact that most elves married young and Mireth is betrothed. I like the way Penny still makes foolish mistakes. The great lords aorund her are very kind, though. Elrond's kiss was lovely. What else? Oh, Halladan is a rugged hunk of burning love. Oh, and the little talk Penny had with Mireth and Eleniel really enforced how much more distant they are to her than Lindir, simply because they don't know her full history. (Do they? I know she's tried to tell them once or twice but don't think she actually has.) They still just think she's foreigner. Asking Penny if she knew of Celebrian and seeming surprised when she said she knew the story made me think of it. Lindir's going to get laid! SORRY. I've been trying to to say that, but I just know he'll be quite a lover. So sweet.

Kitty · 2 May 2006 · Chapter 26: Easier Said Than Done

Sorry for not reviewing earlier, but just after reading the update, the socket for the internet cable at my laptop broke out and being on holiday, I couldn’t even use my computer at work :-( This chapter was worth the wait, so don’t worry about that and take your time! It was intriguing to have them talk about it all at last, to know what they think about it, how they feel ... I am so glad Penny was finally able to talk about all this, to hear from Aragorn, Legolas and Gandalf they do not blame her for anything. Even if she still feels guilty, I hope as soon as this talk had time to sink in she will feel considerably better. And Halladan was there to comfort her further :-) Now I begin to wonder – was the repeated mentioning of Penny not returning to Imladris the consequence of someone foreseeing she would end up with Halladan? With all these foresighted people around I’d not be too surprised about something like this. Oh, and I liked the way Gandalf always opened the door to receive the invited guests and to deal with the *not* invited *grin*

Flintheart · 2 May 2006 · Chapter 26: Easier Said Than Done

GREAT to se a chapter after so long. I still suspect it might be discovered by Gandolf that actually Saromon or Sauron had reached through time to pull several people back, to force any possible information out of them that might give them some advantage. Figuring correctly that even after 10,000 years a mythos would survive that could be mined for information and used to change things, and if one of the victoms was well read, there might be specific information. Penny might be only one of several, but that the others died quickly. I suspect that in the end it may be Penny who realizes that in order for Things to be remembered, there must be more then one copy left of the Red Book, and she will have to work on that?

Laurelin · 26 April 2006 · Chapter 26: Easier Said Than Done

Just to let you know i check almost every day for an update thats how much i enjoy your fic! Another fantastic chapter i liked the way Elrond admonished Penny for sugesting that he was to carry all the burden on his shoulders(never thought of his dilemma)great writing and i think a decision has already been made for Penny by Halladan i think.Till next time please keep updating yours is the best fic on the net thanks Laurelin.

Daynawayna · 24 April 2006 · Chapter 26: Easier Said Than Done

Wonderful as always, my dear! :) It would have been better for me without so many interruptions (daughter, tv, husband, tv [star trek!], cats.... ) but I thouroughly enjoyed it nonetheless. I can't wait for more!

Paladin1420 · 23 April 2006 · Chapter 26: Easier Said Than Done

I read and enjoyed Don't Panic and I have been eagerly following this story. I appreciate and am fascinated by the level of detail you've included in both. You've given us an incredibly accurate picture of what life in ME was like. I think of it as the toilet paper and toothbrush tour, although I could have done without some of the feminine hygiene details - but hey, it's your story not mine. In addition, and without breaking canon, you've taken us through a fascinating and thought provoking story with wonderful characters. Thanks - Paladin1420