I must let you know that I am still following this story zealously and I am really looking forward to your description of the climactic battle. I do like this Lothiriel when she is fending for herself. I admire her fortitude.
I do wonder why I enjoy a story where I know the outcome. I think I may have mentioned this in another review. I am drawn to the conclusion that I do not look forward to your posts to find out what happens next but to read your words describing what happens next. Well your minor OCs are fleshed out as well so it is not just the words. And your landscapes!!! I refer now to other stories as well but your descriptions of "Scrambles in the Alps" betray an intimate understanding.
My hopes for the future: Gimli emerges from the caves with Eomer after the battle with no helmet but his head dressed with a "bloodstained linen band". Please let Lothiriel apply this dressing. I can imagine all sorts of ways in which that interaction might advance relationships all round.
Pryderi.
Author's reply
Hello Pryderi,
it's good to hear you're still following the story! This Lothiriel does try her best to fend for herself, but her plans have a tendency to go awry ;-)
I think knowing the outcome of the story has advantages and disadvantages, at least I've found it so while writing. On one hand it's difficult for me to work up a sense of suspense - although I do try my best - on the other hand it's fun to play around with the reader's different level of knowledge. But I'm pleased to hear you like my characters and descriptions.
As for Gimli, I had long planned it for Lothiriel to be the one to apply the bandage, but the story has taken an unexpected turn and now I'm not sure if I can fit it in. I would like to, but I will have to see.
Lia
P.S. What 'Scrambles in the Alps' do you mean?
whitewave
· 17 August 2008
· Chapter 14: Chapter 14
Hi Lia,
I was on the edge of my seat while reading Lothy deliberating on whether she should marry Theodred or not and was glad (and sighed in relief) when I got to the last part although I knew what was going to happen anyway. A lot of things contributed to Eomer losing his temper with Grim, but being the fangirl that I am, my favorite "reason" of course is because of Theodred's possible marriage to Lothy and Eomer's uncertainty/disappointment/sorrow since he thinks she doesn't love him.
The last part, where she wanted to go to Edoras was so romantic. I'm very curious on what will happen, how they will react when they see each other again.
Author's reply
Hello Whitewave,
yes, I like to think as well that the whole situation with Lothiriel aggravated Eomer to the point where he lost his temper with Grima. Maybe it even added to the recklessness that made him go after those orcs against the king's orders. It must have been therapeutic to slaughter a few Uruks ;-)
And Eomer will arrive at the Hornburg in the next chapter, but Théodred's death has not made matters between them any easier.
Lia
daw the minstrel
· 17 August 2008
· Chapter 14: Chapter 14
What a great chapter. You move us forward into the crucial events of Tolkien's story and tell it from a different POV than I've seen before.
I particularly liked two things. One is that moment when Theodred sees her without recognition in the courtyard, thus confirming her fears that he's a warrior first and last. The second is that realistic relief that she won't have to marry him and her subsequent guilt. That's exactly right and it's wonderful that you don't expurgate it.
Author's reply
Hello Daw,
because Lothiriel is not mentioned in the books (obviously!) I have had to fit her into the time and space that is not covered by Tolkien. At first I thought that would make the story more difficult to write, but actually it's been very rewarding and I find it more interesting than covering the events that the books show so well already.
And I think that if it had been Eomer riding out of that courtyard he would have recognized her, no matter how dark it was. So yes, Théodred is a warrior first and last. As for her guilt, that won't make matters between her and Eomer any easier!
Lia
Linda Hoyland
· 1 August 2008
· Chapter 13: Chapter 13
Poor Lothiriel,first 3 day flu,then accounts and an unwanted proposal! I wonder just what Grima is playing at?I don't think Lothiriel wants to end up like Catherine of Aragorn!Another chapter that kept me on the edge of my seat,you are a very gifted writer.
Author's reply
Hello Linda,
now you're making me feel bad for what I throw at my heroine ;-) The accounts alone would probably finish me off...
And Grima just wants to torment Eomer a bit more, he would certainly take his time to arrange for that council in Edoras. After all he doesn't want an heir for Rohan and also surely knows that Saruman will attack soon. So don't worry too much!
Lia
daw the minstrel
· 31 July 2008
· Chapter 13: Chapter 13
I love the idea that Lothiriel learns of how dangerous times have grown by looking at accounts. I once heard a science fiction writer say that he does world building by following the money. If he can figure out how people get what they need and trade it, he knows a lot about the society. Yet you don't see much about that in Tolkien's world sometimes.
But what a nasty turn that Theodred is actually proposing to her. That leaves her torn between a number of different forces.
Author's reply
Hello Daw,
that's an interesting notion, to do world building along financial considerations. It's true that in Tolkien's world (at least outside the Shire) you don't see any mention of money or how people earn a living. For example, are there any Elf farmers? I'm quite a practical person, so I like to include such matters and several of my Lothiriel have been able administrators.
And I know I've put Lothiriel in a difficult spot! It will cause her considerable heartache in the next chapter.
Lia
whitewave
· 31 July 2008
· Chapter 13: Chapter 13
Hi Lia. Thanks for the update, I loved so many things about the chapter and the root cause is your excellent writing. Every chapter is a treat, especially since I just read Chap 12 a few days ago. Honestly, I feel torn between enjoying the story and analyzing your writing and figure out just what it is that draws me in everytime. I read your updates twice usually, first to enjoy, then to analyze.
I loved how strong Eomer's presence is even if he's not physically present. I find it so thrilling that he is constantly in her thoughts. The most telling one was when she thought of administrating Aldburg's books (brought out the fan girl in me). I feel that this event of her acting as adminstrator to Helm's Deep has a part to play in the siege and it makes me more excited for the future installments.
I also enjoyed re-reading the scene with Theodred. I just knew he'd play a good part, his presence is refreshing, especially how you fleshed him out. I think he is starting to be aware (if he isn't already) of Grima's machinations. I'm excited on finding out what role Theodred will play to "help" our favorite couple. He is so insightful and from his dialogue, I assume that he has given marriage to her a lot of thought. If Eomer was not around he'd be suitable, but well. It's a shame to think about what will happen to him (soon?).
As usual, I really hate Grima and can only imagine how hurt Eomer must feel at this point, specially with the full council.
Author's reply
Hello Whitewave,
I'm flattered that you should think my chapters worth reading twice! Basically I just love these characters (Eomer's always been my favourite in the books) and want to tell an interesting story about them so I can play with them ;-)
And I suppose it shows how far gone Lothiriel is that she even considers keeping Aldburg's books an enjoyable occupation! She will help as much as she can manage during the siege, but it won't really play a major role.
As for Théodred, I don't think he realizes how seriously both Eomer's and Lothiriel's hearts are engaged. There will be more on Lothiriel's thoughts on his proposal in the upcoming chapter, but I think if it had gone through, nothing but heartache would have come of it. However, like you noted, the first Battle of the Fords of Isen will soon take place.
Lia
Alquawende
· 31 July 2008
· Chapter 13: Chapter 13
It is good to know what happens to Grima later. I do hope Lothiriel will find a way to save herself from this mess she's gotten into.
Author's reply
Hello Alquawende,
I know, it's good to know that Grima will get what he deserves eventually (actually quite soon). And Lothiriel will dig herself in a little deeper before she pulls herself out...
Lia
whitewave
· 27 July 2008
· Chapter 12: Chapter 12
The email alert did not seem to work because I did not receive notication that you have posted a new chapter for this story. Good thing I looked around after Lady Bluejay posted hers.
Poor Eomer and Lothy! How sad to read about them getting hurt (Eomer most of all), I'm sure Eomer will tear Grima limb from limb when he finds out what really happened. I'm excited to find out how Eomer and Lothy will reconcile and live happily ever after.
Author's reply
Hello Whitewave,
like you said, Eomer will probably want to tear Grima limb from limb, but he actually won't find out until after Gandalf sends Grima packing (because I intend to stay within canon for this story), so he'll miss out on it.
And don't get too excited yet, it's going to take a while until they reconcile ;-)
Lia
P.S. the email alerts have not been working for me all the time either, but usually I post a chapter every 2 weeks or so.
Linda Hoyland
· 26 July 2008
· Chapter 12: Chapter 12
This is such a sad and dramatic chapter.I really felt for poor Lothiriel,and for Eomer and Eowyn too. You conveyed the bleakness of Helm's Deep mirrored in her emotions brilliantly.
If you are using British spelling,as I noted you did with "honour", "draft" should be "draught". I think in Anglo Saxon the "gh" was like the German "ch" but somehow over the centuries became pronoched as "F"!
I think this story is my favourite amongst those I am currently reading.
Author's reply
Hello Linda,
yes, I think if Lothiriel had come to Helm's Deep in happier times she would have had an entirely different impression of the place. However, I live near the mountains and these deep valleys always give me a feeling of being coped in, especially in the winter when the sun is low. I imagine Lothiriel growing up by the sea would feel the same.
And I'm flattered to hear this is amongst your favourite stories!
Lia
P.S. you are of course right about the spelling, thanks!
Larner
· 15 July 2008
· Chapter 12: Chapter 12
To seek to keep him save by such a ruse must have been so distasteful to her!
Author's reply
Hello Larner,
it's horrible for her, but she's determined to keep him safe - at whatever cost to herself. And Grima is not finished with them yet either...
Lia
Larner
· 15 July 2008
· Chapter 11: Chapter 11
The evil git! I knew that drink was drugged! But he has her coronet in the King's apartments.
Erkenbrand and Eowyn?
Author's reply
Hello Larner,
you're a very attentive reader. Yes, he's got her gold band. And since you've read the next chapter you know how he used it!
Lia
Alquawende
· 14 July 2008
· Chapter 12: Chapter 12
Lothiriel shouldn't have lied. It just made everything worse, I think, even if she did mean well. I pity poor Eowyn and Eomer. Eomer must feel devastated by Lothiriel's betrayal and Eowyn lost an ally. Please update soon! I enjoyed this a lot.
Author's reply
Hello Alqua,
well, it was a difficult choice for Lothiriel because very likely, if she had confronted Grima, Eomer would have ended up disgraced. In the end it leaves him free to pursue a certain orc band bearing important prisoners to Isengard...
But like you said, it's heartbreaking for all three concerned.
Lia
galimeril
· 14 July 2008
· Chapter 12: Chapter 12
Ahhh, poor Lothiriel, Poor Eomer. Damn Grima. Excellent, as always. Your work is always such a pleasure to read. I just love you to pieces! I felt so sorry for Lotheriel, and I just can't wait to see how you turn this all around. Confrontations scenes are my faves!
Have a great week!
Galimeril ;D
Author's reply
Hello Galimeril,
well, there are a few more confrontation scenes coming up before we reach the resolution, so that should make you happy ;-) I'm afraid it will take quite a while until the mess that Lothiriel has just landed herself in will be resolved.
Lia
Maria
· 14 July 2008
· Chapter 12: Chapter 12
Ahh! This chapter made me so depressed! I want to kill Wormtongue! Look what he's done, Eowyn and Eomer are mad at Lothiriel. I hope that Lothiriel and Eomer make up before he becomes king, otherwise he might think she's a thronedigger.
Is she going to still be at Helm's Deep when the Battle for Helm's Deep occurs? I look in the Appendix and thats about three months off. There wouldn't really be any way for her to get home anyways.... Hmmm....
Can't wait for the next chapter!!
Author's reply
Hello Maria,
sorry for making you depressed! As you know the two will be overtaken by the events of the Ring War soon, so I'm afraid they don't really have much opportunity to make up.
And the Battle for Helm's Deep is little more than 2 months off, so yes, she will be there. Like you noted, she doesn't really have any way to get home.
Lia
Fantasia
· 14 July 2008
· Chapter 12: Chapter 12
Great, a new chapter! Well, is going to be so complicated now to clear the mess. I have thought that he will be hurt because her departure, but Grima has to get involve and everything got worse. Sorry for them, when he becomes King, he will think that she only cares for the crown. After the war, if she tries to reach him, Eomer will think that she only cares for the crown.
Thanks,
Author's reply
Hello Fantasia,
you are of course right. It will be extremely difficult for Lothiriel to convince Eomer that she's not just after his crown once he's king. And things might get even worse, for Grima is not quite finished with them...
Thanks for reviewing.
Lia
Fantasia
· 3 July 2008
· Chapter 11: Chapter 11
Thanks for your reply, I was refering to the other cousin, Ceolwen. It will be good for the future that some one knows the truth.
Author's reply
Sorry, I misunderstood. Ceolwen is of course Eomer's cousin, too. And you are right, they will become friends.
Lia
Maria
· 2 July 2008
· Chapter 11: Chapter 11
I love this story! You are such an amazing writer!
I'm so glad she was able to get away from that disgusting worm Grima. I was getting a bit worried there!
Poor Lothiriel for having to leave and poor Eomer when he finds out that she's left. I hope she someone leaves him a message about why she's leaving without telling him about what Grima tried to do.
Is the story going to keep going through the War of the Ring, or will it pick up after, when they meet again?
Maria
Author's reply
Hello Maria,
I did of course mean you to get worried ;-) Lothiriel is in a difficult situation, for she cannot really tell Eomer anything without risking him losing his temper - a dangerous matter with Grima controlling the king's mind.
And I intend to carry on through the whole war, although Lothiriel will of course not witness all the events personally.
Thank you for your kind words!
Lia
Linda Hoyland
· 2 July 2008
· Chapter 11: Chapter 11
Two wonderfully contrasting chapters about two very different men and Lothiriel's instinctive reactions to both.A great read.I eagerly await more.
Author's reply
Hi Linda,
it's true they are very different, aren't they. Although as another reviewer noted, they both know what they want and intend to get it!
Lia
galimeril
· 1 July 2008
· Chapter 11: Chapter 11
yipes! Grima is gonna get it! Lotheriel should have slit his throat, not given him time to make it Eowyn's business. I feel so bad for her, what a creep! It's always such a treat when you post, I hope there's more soon!
Author's reply
Hello Galimeril,
actually I was thinking to myself that it would be nice for Eomer to deal with Grima. Alas, that will fall to Gandalf. But it would have made a nice scene to write.
And I'm busy writing away, but find the summer heat saps my energy!
Lia
daw the minstrel
· 1 July 2008
· Chapter 11: Chapter 11
What slime Grima is! Lothiriel is a strong-minded woman and I love the ending where she's already making plans for what to do next.
Author's reply
Hello Daw,
he is a wonderfully slimy villain, isn't he! But it's true Lothiriel is very resilient and does not give up easily. Even if her plans do not always work out perfectly...
Lia
Fantasia
· 1 July 2008
· Chapter 11: Chapter 11
I'm at work, so this should be short, love it. I can feel her despair and her desired to find Eomer. She does have a clever mind, no rushing to Eomer for help, and thinking first in his safety. All that I can think is that she will leave and he will feel abandoned, a big mess to resolve when he becomes a King, hope that she confind in Eomer's cousin, so someone will know what happened and will help in the future.
Thankns and post soon, I have been checking for updates daily.
Author's reply
Hello Fantasia,
it's true Lothiriel is quite controlled and thinks things through before she acts. This is both good and bad. On one hand she avoids Eomer losing his temper and possibly his position as Marshal (leaving him to pursue a certain orc band), on the other hand, like you noted, it will lead to problems between them.
As for confiding in Théodred, she hardly knows him and I don't know if he's the kind of person who's easy to talk to about such matters.
Lia
P.S. if you click on the 'Add to favs/request note' link at the bottom of a chapter you can have an email sent to you whenever I update (which is about every 10 days or so).
whitewave
· 1 July 2008
· Chapter 11: Chapter 11
Couldn't stop reading this one, even while I'm at work. It's so romantic that the thought of him was what saved her from Grima, that sick worm. But I did like what Grima said about her being the weakness of Eomer.
Hope he gets what he deserves in the end. I also loved the "connection" between Eomer and Lothy. I'm excited to find out what she is planning to talk to Erkenbrand about. Looking forward to the next chapter.
BTW, I have accounts for both HASA and SoA, which would you prefer I go to when reviewing your work? Thanks.
Author's reply
Hello Whitewave,
sorry for distracting you from work ;-) Unfortunately Grima is quite right about Lothiriel being a chink in Eomer's armour as things stand at the moment. She has recognized this and intends to do something about it, but it won't be easy on her - you'll see in the next chapter.
Lia
P.S. I'm not on HASA very often, so this site is better for me for reviewing. Thanks!
whitewave
· 21 June 2008
· Chapter 2: Chapter 2
The tension between our protagonists is brewing nicely. I never thought I'd be this hooked to Eomer and Lothy fiction, not until I ready Lady Bluejay's and your stories.
Author's reply
Hello Whitewave,
funny enough Lady Bluejay is my beta and I am hers. I don't know how many Eomer/Lothiriel scenarios we've written between us by now, but I do enjoy coming up with new ways they could have met. And it's always good to hear we've converted a new reader ;-)
I hope you'll enjoy the rest of the ride!
Lia
whitewave
· 21 June 2008
· Chapter 6: Chapter 6
Loved the healing scene very much. This is definitely a page turner. I'll definitely read your other stories.
Author's reply
Hello Whitewave,
good to hear you enjoyed the healing scene. I do try to keep the pace up and retain the tension between them. And of course the times they live in are interesting in and of themselves.
Lia
whitewave
· 21 June 2008
· Chapter 7: Chapter 7
I'm enjoying this very much. Your idea with the kite was very clever and I expect more coming from this. Love your story.
Author's reply
Hello Whitewave,
I had fun writing kites into this story - they're a bit of a hobby of mine (or were before writing took over all my free time!).
Lia