Reviews (234)

bobbygniu · 22 May 2026 · Chapter 61: 'He Looks Like Boromir'

Thanks for keeping the story going. Can’t wait for Aragorn to show up.

Fimbrethil · 11 April 2026 · Chapter 60: The Greatest Good News

Hurrah! I see more! But I don't really remember some things so I will have to start over from the begining, or at least when Boromir continues South. Unfortunately I will probably have to wait as I am supposed to be busy. But I will get to it at some point!

shirebound · 9 April 2026 · Chapter 61: 'He Looks Like Boromir'

How generous-hearted of Merry to want to relieve any worry Boromir might have about him.

Fimbrethel · 27 August 2025 · Chapter 60: The Greatest Good News

What news of Boromir the Bold? For he has been long away. Denethor has decided to live, and to let Faramir live. But he will still go to the houses of healing, where Éowyn will go...so it is time for Éowyn to be in this story! I wonder what Boromir will think of her? Here is to Boromir the Bold and Faramir the Faithful.

Lindelea · 1 April 2025 · Chapter 4: A Hard Parting

"But since when have I taken the easy way?" Ah, Boromir. There's a lesson in those words, somehow. I still find myself pondering the difference between the brothers. How was Faramir able to say, 'Not even if it lay by the wayside...' and yet Boromir still cannot seem let the thought go? Delay no longer! Bravely spoken, but also a true assessment. With every passing moment, the Hobbits have been borne further into danger. This scene reminds me so much of stories where a wounded warrior stays behind, typically intending to serve as a living booby-trap if and when the enemy happens on him, in order to assure the survival of his comrades. (Indestructible but not invincible. Lovely word-contrast for consideration.) (And I am hoping that Gondor will come. And quickly.)

Anon · 20 March 2025 · Chapter 60: The Greatest Good News

Every couple of months I check in with this site for nostalgia's sake. I've been reading here since I was a child, and I'm so pleased to still see activity here even though I'm most definitely beyond young age now. And everytime I see this story pop up and one or several new chapters to read. It never fails to delight me! You've captured the spirit of Tolkien so well in your writing style. And I love the idea of Boromir returning home to his family, and I'm very curious to see what changes will come now that Denethor is almost certainly going to survive the siege of Minas Tirith. Thank you so much for writing and continuing to share this story!

bobbygniu · 19 March 2025 · Chapter 60: The Greatest Good News

So excited this story is continuing. Can’t wait for the next chapter.

Lindelea · 11 March 2025 · Chapter 4: A Hard Parting

"Easier, perhaps," growled Boromir. "But since when have I taken the easy way?" Well isn't that just like Boromir all over! Along with his gallows humor. Reminds me of one of my characters whose mother told him he'd someday be using his last breath to tell a joke. At last, wisdom comes to Boromir, and he's able to be fully honest with himself and others. I'm glad when he decides he must consciously let the Ring and its false promises go. "The sooner we get to that heavy work, the better," said Aragorn. I agree! The longer I read, the louder my brain yammers in the background: But what about Merry and Pippin!!!? (Yay, Boromir! ...and someone may be on their way from Gondor, even now...)

Lindelea · 4 March 2025 · Chapter 3: All for the Aid of Boromir

Aragorn's approach to a sucking wound using Middle-earth technology is fascinating. I like how Denethor and Farramir arrive separately at the same conclusion. And Denethor has a word of approval for Faramir! That seems surprising. Thank you for providing the translation in the notes!

PSW · 24 February 2025 · Chapter 60: The Greatest Good News

I’m so excited for I see this update! I need to go back and reread the whole thing to catch up again… :-D

Lindelea · 24 February 2025 · Chapter 2: Hands of a Healer

Boromir's battle reflects both the book and film, skillfully woven into a coherent narrative. Well done! This must have been a shattering moment for him: So... I am not indestructible after all, he thought sadly. The voice of experience: "A broken blade is an honorable thing, for to break in good service is to finish well. Yet if we can find the broken shards, there is hope your sword can be reforged. You shall wield it again." I like the way Aragorn holds out hope here: but there may yet be a chance for you to set things right with Frodo. You have done much already to redeem yourself! ...and here is where this story diverges from the original. I'm fascinated. The theme of brokenness, begun with his sword, is extended to Boromir's wounded body. Also, if you need to take part of a tree without damaging the tree too much, who but a Wood-elf should you ask? (This chapter also stirs a dim memory of Pipkinsweetgrass's wonderful Beekeeper story, another AU where Boromir survives his wounds. It's been too long since I read that one, too.)

Lindelea · 22 February 2025 · Chapter 1: Surrounded

I see I reviewed this chapter sometime ago. However, I'm glad to see you've added to the story. I'm starting from the beginning again. The battle scenes are vividly written and easy to follow. The pacing is effective, pulling the reader ever onward (until, of course, one fetches up against the abrupt edge of the cliffhanger ending). The short break between battle scenes, featuring Denethor and Faramir, was interesting and feels like a gap-filler of sorts (I remember Faramir telling Frodo and Sam, I think it was, about hearing his brother's horn blowing, and here you show him hearing the horn). Gandalf described Denethor and Faramir in quite similar terms, as I recall. This is, as I probably said in my earlier review, a gripping beginning!

shirebound · 22 February 2025 · Chapter 60: The Greatest Good News

If a small Halfling with no armor and little training can run without hesitation towards a battle to bring me news that will renew my hope, the least I can do is honor his willingness Indeed so. What a wonderful chapter. And your wonderful story is back, hooray!

Anonymous · 26 June 2023 · Chapter 2: Hands of a Healer

Love the story so far and love the fact that we can have an AU situation if Boromir had lived . Can’t wait to read more

anonymouse (I forgot my account name…) · 30 May 2023 · Chapter 59: Hope is a Choice

This was a WONDERFUL way to pass an afternoon, lemme tell you… I first found this fic two to four years ago, and even though it’s been a long time since I last visited this site, it lingered in the back of my mind. I decided to find it again after rereading the trilogy, and I’m glad I did. This is a wonderful take on the premise, and it feels like something right out of the books themselves. I’m looking forward to whatever is coming next! :)

Telemmaitë Ingolmo · 11 September 2022 · Chapter 59: Hope is a Choice

Superbly written thus far! I have been on the edge if my seat for the duration of this story, and will doubtless remain there until the conclusion of this masterpiece.

Telemmaitë Ingolmo · 11 September 2022 · Chapter 1: Surrounded

I find it exceedingly rare to stumble upon stories that carry the same tone as the original texts of Tolkien, but this first chapter is captivating in all the same ways. You craft the story beautifully and form in me a genuine desire to read on not only to see the conclusion, but for my own pure enjoyment.

PSW · 21 August 2022 · Chapter 59: Hope is a Choice

What an utterly fantastic story. I have very much enjoyed it, and will look forward to future updates. Thanks so much for this wonderful tale!

Galathil · 14 August 2022 · Chapter 59: Hope is a Choice

Hi Linaewen so glad you are adding more chapters. Can't wait for all the different meetings with everyone. Galathil.

bobbygniu · 21 July 2022 · Chapter 59: Hope is a Choice

So happy you are continuing the story. I can't wait for Aragorn/Boromir to meet in Gondor under the kings banner!

Larner · 21 July 2022 · Chapter 59: Hope is a Choice

Ah, but Hope indeed approaches the White City, and from more direction! Ho wonderful to see you return!

shirebound · 18 July 2022 · Chapter 59: Hope is a Choice

Tell him not to worry, that everything will be okay, Gandalf and I have it well in hand! Dear Pippin! I absolutely love Dûrlin's self-awareness, honesty, and courage. We all need someone like him in our lives.

Jane · 15 July 2021 · Chapter 58: Horns from the North

I really love this fic! You stayed wonderfully true to the characters and I lobe reading about Boromir survive! Great job, would be really happy if you get to continue it at some point! So curious/scared about your take on the brothers reuniting!

demeter d · 8 March 2021 · Chapter 58: Horns from the North

I am happy to see that you continue this story! As I have said before, I love your Durlin! If Tolkien's Denethor had him in his corner, perhaps things would have turned out much differently. And I agree with the other reviewer. I do believe Gandalf draws hope and good energy from his "Fool of a Took". I have long believed that Gandalf very much loves his Hobbits.

Agape4rivendell · 1 October 2020 · Chapter 45: Harsh Words

First, I have a soft spot for Imrahil. It is always a delight to see him in any tale. Loved his questioning Denethor and the respect the two have of each other. And Gandalf farewelling Faramir was perfect. It felt good to know Gandalf sent him off with words of encouragement. And finally, Boromir is on Gondor land. Phew! Wasn’t sure he’d make it. Thank you!