Reviews (23)

Lindelea · 4 May 2026 · Chapter 6: 'You are not alone!'

Waiting is always hard. Waiting with someone you can trust seems to help, at least a little. I loved Éowyn's reunion with Waerith! It felt very real to me. "bands of worry" like something tightening around one's heart – such an evocative word picture! "This was her life now..." Never was such a reward more deserved. How difficult it must be, to be a seer, knowing what will come to pass but being unable to speak about it until afterwards! "Tell me of the man with blue eyes filled with love." How curious she must have been! How happy she is to hear the reality behind her foretelling! (I wonder if it will occur to Éowyn later that Holdlith also foresaw her suffering but could not speak of it. How the older woman must have suffered in having such knowledge and having to keep it to herself!) (I love to see Éomer sounding cheerful.) Éomer's reaction to "My King" is completely believable. I am glad that Éowyn knows him so well, including when to goad and when (and how) to reassure. Lovely!

Lindelea · 4 May 2026 · Chapter 6: 'You are not alone!'

Oh lovely to see a new chapter of this! I will hope to return tomorrow to read. (and review, of course. I can't seem to help myself.)

Fimbrethel · 2 May 2026 · Chapter 6: 'You are not alone!'

Oh, Éomer. He needs a wife to love him :) *hint*hint*

shirebound · 2 May 2026 · Chapter 6: 'You are not alone!'

Faramir. This was her life now because of her actions. She smiled and within those moments she forgave herself for not being the perfect chatelaine and for not ever wanting to be. That's a wonderful and healing realization. The stronger Éowyn becomes, the more she can help heal others.

Lindelea · 31 March 2026 · Chapter 5: 'Always, My dear girl!'

MM! As always, Holdlith displays wisdom, sense and understanding. She reminds me of that verse from Ecclesiastes, to everything there is a season, and a time for every purpose under heaven. She had come to like the lady with her brisk ways... I also joined the Saelith fan club at some point. Lovely example of character growth. Her thoughtfulness, in thinking to thank Thilda later, is just one of many illustrations pointing to her new and growing understanding. I absolutely adore her reunion with her husband. Perfectly done. And I'm so glad that Haere appreciates the new-and-tested-and-improved Saelith. I can easily imagine them sharing his saddle as they ride on. Gamhelm's greeting to Éowyn is pure gold. And Holdlith's vision of Éomer in the future is a nice touch. Would Gamhelm recognize the name "Faramir"? Maybe not, though I should think he might have met Boromir at one or more times in the past. By the way, Gamhelm's logic seems sound to me. I'm glad he was able to help Éowyn view her "desertion" in a different light. (((hugs))) Lin p.s. The standalone chapter you posted that corresponds to this one was also well-done. I left you a review there, as well.

shirebound · 20 March 2026 · Chapter 5: 'Always, My dear girl!'

Éomer’s first impulse was to go to his sister, but Holdlith stayed him gently with a hand on his arm. “Nay, My King,” she whispered gently. “Let her have this time. She needs a father’s arms and Gamhelm can provide that office.” How lovely! This is a wonderful homecoming for all of them. Thank you so much for your reviews of "Quarantined", which I greatly appreciate. That story has always been very precious to me. ♥

Fimbrethil · 19 March 2026 · Chapter 5: 'Always, My dear girl!'

He is wonderful and kind and brave.” Gamhelm clasped her hands which had been gesticulating wildly, “I hope to meet this paragon of male virtue to make sure that he is good enough for you.” “You will and he is! Éomer has already and he already approves!” “If your brother approves then this Faramir must be special indeed.” Nice! All these Reunions are wonderful, and remind me of how many others there must have been. And I am pretty sure those descriptive adjectives about Faramir I have written for Lothíriel to say about Éomer, or Éowyn to say to her about Éomer.

Fimbrethil · 19 March 2026 · Chapter 4: “All else can wait!”

"She looked at Háláf who was to her immediate right". I also just noticed that both Éomer and Háláf are on her right? Unless they moved a bit during the ride. Or "on Éomer's left hand" means slightly behind? As good as the first time, possibly better!

Fimbrethil · 19 March 2026 · Chapter 4: “All else can wait!”

Oh yes, I also love the cooking byplay and the resulting chase and life is good. Also when Holdith asked Héohelm "what do your young eyes see?"

Fimbrethil · 19 March 2026 · Chapter 4: “All else can wait!”

Wow this is great! Not that Théoden and Grimbold and others died, of course, but you know what I mean. I am glad Éomer and Éowyn have reason to be happy. However I did notice that a few sentences seemed to be missing words.

Lindelea · 1 March 2026 · Chapter 4: “All else can wait!”

MM! How nice to see a new chapter of this today! ...her balcony... I like that. Well, she did desert them, I guess. And yet how terrible the outcome might have been, had she not followed her heart! (And I'm not talking about her not meeting Faramir, though that would have been tragic, but the fate of Middle-earth!) Ah, but Faramir is right there. I'm so glad. And the nuances are so beautifully written. "Éowyn's boys". For some reason, my heart just melted. And I adored the little byplay over food and cooking. I would agree that a talking eagle would certainly be a unique and novel experience. But Holdlith rises to the occasion. Her "Bloody bird" is golden. All this time they've been waiting... and hoping... and dreading... My heart goes out to them. (And did Saelith's husband survive? I don't remember. I hope he did. Both of them deserve happiness, especially now. But then, so many who were deserving of happiness did not see their hopes fulfilled. Sigh. I hate even the thought of war.) The horn of welcome! Wonderful! The scene where Éomer knelt and the people shouted their acclaim brought tears to my eyes. Bright was his light. Great is his memory. A goodly summary of a life well-lived, except for the part that Saruman and Wormtongue stole from him. The light talk at the end of the chapter sets just the right tone. Well done! (((hugs))) Lin

shirebound · 1 March 2026 · Chapter 4: “All else can wait!”

People were still stunned by the news of Théoden King’s death, but a rising tide of acclamation came rolling forth and Lord Erkenbrand placed a hand on Éomer’s head and said in a voice choked with emotion, “Rise, my king!” Éomer looked up. Erkenbrand saw tears in his eyes, together with determination and humility in the young man’s earnest blue eyes. He reached out a hand to the older man, “Will you help me?” Erkenbrand’s eyes widened, and his eyes felt wetter than before, “Aye, that I will… My King.” I just love that! Many years ago (20, wow!), I wrote "A Rohan Tapestry" that began with Éomer's acceptance from his people as their new king, and that moment was such a joy to imagine. This is such a happy chapter, especially with Éowyn and Faramir reminded of their strong love and bond. It will help Éowyn to remember that had she not "abandoned" her people, she and Faramir would never have met.

Fimbrethil · 22 February 2026 · Chapter 3: The Banner Raised in Promise

I know Aragorn has the armor in the book, but it is interesting to ponder where he got it from. In both the book and the film he is a Ranger who sailed up the Anduin, then a week later he is leading the host to the Black Gate, then five weeks later is his coronation as king of Gondor...where he is wearing the symbols (tree and stars) of Elendil, which only the guards have been wearing for the past 1000 years.

Fimbrethel · 10 February 2026 · Chapter 3: The Banner Raised in Promise

I am glad Faramir still has old friends! Also Eirik...interesting to see other feelings besides exuberance. By which I mean good to see he is capable of other emotions. This part was nice: “You are right. Today is a wonderful day.” Faramir began assertively, placing a hand on the boy’s shoulder, “But you cry because you have a heart and you know what it has cost to bring this day foward.” he continued gently, holding his squire’s eye. “I have great respect for a man who sheds tears in remembrance. This means you honor the sacrifices made.” Oh! Éowyn's boys are here! nice! And they approve of Faramir and Éowyn, good. I like the entrance is book verse (i.e. Éowyn with Faramir and Éomer with Aragorn) especially since you have Éomer and Éowyn together before. Her other riders! And her friendship with Elfhelm, I had forgotten the details of that. ooh, a sword arch! cool. Did you say where Aragorn got that armor? Today is certainly Faramir's day to be proud! Oh, yes, Faramir getting the crown...and Beregond is there too. That would be emotional. Glad they have a friend with them. But Faramir is back to only going on because of his duty, I see. "Faramir nodded, receiving his friend’s acquiescence, for he knew that is what it was, not acceptance." good. Also happy to see that apparently the destruction of the House of the Stewards didn't affect Ecthelion's effigy (or anyone else's) too badly. Yes, I didn't think Faramir knew about Frodo and Gandalf being involved. And the banner is Arwen's, nice.

Lindelea · 9 February 2026 · Chapter 3: The Banner Raised in Promise

MM! Of course Faramir would feel duty-bound to watch the Stewards' flag raised for the last time. That seems entirely appropriate. An awful lot of people have wondered whether Denethor would have recognised Aragorn as the legitimate King. I haven't read any AUs to that effect, but it's an interesting situation to contemplate. I'd like to give the Man the benefit of the doubt, somehow, even though I can imagine him being hard to convince – not because he coveted power but because of the responsibility that weighed so heavily on him that he would not be able to lightly give over the burden of command. Good move, Faramir, showing your courage and quality once more. Seize the joy of the day, especially this day of all days, marking the return of the King! (I also smiled at the thought of Eirik. His dedication to his lord and fierce determination that Faramir will look his absolute best on this day is touching and heartwarming. The part where Faramir honors the remembrance mingled with the boy's joy is very well done.) At Harthedir's statement that he felt hope once again, I found myself drawing a deep, cleansing breath. The future beckons instead of threatening. What a gift! And Faramir's interaction with his guards fits well with the way Tolkien described his Men's love for and devotion to their Captain. I love seeing Faramir and Éowyn, along with the festive City and celebrating citizens, through your eyes! (Elfhelm's greeting was completely believable and made me laugh. And I am fervently glad that her boys all survived.) The sight of the remaining Dúnedain is both inspiring and shattering. "Undimmed white" for Gandalf; well said. The day before: Ah, yes, at this point Beregond has not yet been judged for his actions. "Of old, death was the penalty." Sigh. He did not know if it ever would be the time. Is this because he's thinking the time he has left is short? Somehow, I can see them as old men, talking over old times, and Beregond finally saying what he has left unsaid (if the opportunity never arose for him to say it before that time, that is). Acquiescence at this point in time, just so, but not acceptance. And thank you again for including more of Beregond in the story. After all, since he could not guard the Citadel and had been assigned instead to guard Faramir, I can easily imagine him being Faramir's shadow, for all practical purposes. I can also imagine that Gandalf made his suggestion partly out of pity and partly out of respect, knowing that Beregond had traded his life for his Captain's and, thus, would consider it the highest honor to attend Faramir until his time for judgement and (seemingly) inevitable execution came. (In the original text, Gandalf says: But you, Beregond, should return to the Citadel and tell the chief of the Guard there what has befallen. It will be his duty, I fear, to withdraw you from the Guard; but say to him that, if I may give him counsel, you should be sent to the Houses of Healing, to be the guard and servant of your captain, and to be at his side when he awakes – if that shall ever be again. For by you he was saved from the fire.) Your description of the Silent Street helps me see their surroundings quite clearly, thanks. Those small but significant moments between Aragorn and Faramir... *happy sigh* (Chef's kiss.) And the twinkle in Gandalf's eye! Marvelous! I got the shivers as the new banner replaced the old. It's not just the damp cold today, but the powerful scene. Well done. (((hugs))) Lin

shirebound · 5 February 2026 · Chapter 3: The Banner Raised in Promise

“But you cry because you have a heart and you know what it has cost to bring this day foward.” he continued gently, holding his squire’s eye. “I have great respect for a man who sheds tears in remembrance. This means you honor the sacrifices made.” At the use of the word “man” Eirik’s eyes widened and he stood up straight and threw his shoulders back. What perfect and inspiring words for this lad, and for all newly-made "men" that this war has wrought. And what a glorious chapter! I was so disappointed that Faramir welcoming Aragorn to the City wasn't in the movie, as it's one of my favorite scenes in the Trilogy. Faramir continues to "show his quality" and show his City that the true King has returned. LOL, and you know I adore every glimpse of the hobbits. :)

Fimbrethil. · 23 January 2026 · Chapter 2: Healing begins

Oh, I forgot to say I hope the Gondorians don’t hear that an Elf can enter the King’s mind! They will surely take that the wrong way…save Faramir and family of course, who know the people involved. Also, does Éowyn’s circlet in the films (which I suppose she wears at both the funeral and coronation) have golden roses and whatnot? I forget, but don’t want to check.

Fimbrethil · 23 January 2026 · Chapter 2: Healing begins

Yes! Yes! Yes! Hooray! “Yes, My King.” Faramir nodded. “Thank you…” He saw in Aragorn’s eyes kindness and compassion. Two emotions he was unused to in one who commanded him.” Because I guess Imrahil hasn’t commanded him in a while? Or Boromir, for that matter? Well, times are changing, Faramir, times are changing. Also happy to see Aragorn giving him space to cry. Faramir sure needs it. “Women and children who had been sent away for their safety came back to their homes bedecked in flowers and ran into the waiting arms of their husbands, or those not as fortunate into the compassionate arms of family and friends who would bear the loss with them.” The children aren’t running to their husbands, I hope. “From the far-off Anfalas and the coastal holdings of Andrast, the westernmost point of Gondor, to harpers from Dol Amroth renowned through the land for their skill to clear voiced singers from the Lebennin, all who heard and could in haste come to the White City were indeed pitching up tents on the Pelannor as many hostelries and inns had been damaged in the battle as many of these establishments were on the first and second tiers.” This sentence is a little long and confusing, I think, especially having two “as many” phrases. I take it to mean “From the west of Gondor to the south of Gondor all who heard and could come were pitching [why is there an up?] tents on the Pelennor [which is actually an e btw] *because* many of the inns, being on the first and second tiers, had been damaged.” I suppose that leaves out the wonderful word ‘establishments’ though. “Glad to have your approval as it was my idea.” “Only your idea?” Éowyn looked up. Faramir exclaimed, “It was! Gandalf always said I have a very poetic soul!” He preened slightly. “Ah yes, the elderly wizard with the beard and whiskers! Good source for poetic knowledge.” Faramir was quiet for a bit. Then he said, tentatively, “You’re teasing me, aren’t you?” Éowyn sat up and looked into blue eyes that held a slight look of doubt. Gently she said, “Of course I am teasing you.” Faramir relaxed visibly and tried to continue as if nothing had bothered him.” heehee! And Faramir is certainly correct about her being a princess already, and may have even seen the future, being who he is. Ah, I see he even mentions her Rohan princess status, and later that Éomer knows. Waerith…I have a feeling, partly of remembrance, that she does come into the story again. Awww, I am glad that Éomer and Éowyn get to talk alone before the coronation! And oh so glad Éomer accepts Faramir! “He looked magnificent. She took his arm. “I see Wulf managed to sit you down and threaten your hair with a comb for once!” She teased to bring some normalcy to this moment of heightened emotion. “Is this the way you talk to your king?” Éomer quipped. His voice dropped lower to speak in confidence, “The first comb did not survive.” Éowyn laughed merrily and again Éomer’s heart warmed to the sound. This day life was good.” heehee! I wonder what happened to that comb. Did Éomer throw it, break it, or did it get twisted in his hair or something? I was definitely not expecting Boromir to show up here, but delighted he did. This day for them life is good. Even for the people who don’t think so. Erithain! When I saw a Faramir and Éowyn rewrite I was not expecting him! But I should have known, considering hiw much you and I and others have grown to like him. And with the rest of his family dead or not here yet, he should have some relation with him. I just remembered Erithain might be here for Halbarad as well. Alas. Interesting that you have him in the King’s House already. I usually imagine him not to have entered Minas Tirith again until after he is crowned. “All three nodded to him hand on heart. And in a mercurial shift Elladan proclaimed, “It is time to dress you for your coronation. You shall be grander than grand,” Aragorn gave a chagrined smile, “All right, make me grand…” Elladan held a twinkle in his eye, “You deserve nothing less, muindoreg nin,” he whispered. They shared a look and Aragorn smiled, starting to accept the role he had always been destined to fulfill.” heehee. Brotherlet? Really? That is very amusing.

Lindelea · 21 January 2026 · Chapter 2: Healing begins

MM! ...guarded in honor of a memory. A memory that had become reality. This description says so much in so few words! Aragorn's response to Faramir's emotion is beautifully spoken. No one was left alone. Such a comforting thought. And I love the images you paint of the City bedecked with flowers and pavilions and banners and all the accoutrements of rejoicing and celebration to prepare herself for her King. (That's right, the announcement that Éowyn and Faramir have found each other is made when they reach Edoras as the Shire-folk are on their way homewards once more, if I'm remembering correctly.) I love the little conversation between the two, the hint of playfulness that will continue to bloom and grow along with their love. The scene between brother and sister is very moving, right on up to and including Éowyn's sisterly teasing and Éomer's rejoinder. I can just imagine Aragorn sitting as you describe him, remembering. And his foster brothers being there for him and with him. It's lovely to think that Elladan can see beyond the veil and bring news of his parents' joy to Aragorn. And I cannot tell you how happy I am to see Erithain in the here and now. I'm so glad he survived to reach this point and be there for his nephew as well as see the promise that Rangers had treasured down through the centuries, finally fulfilled. I am enjoying your revisions immensely. (((hugs))) Lin

shirebound · 19 January 2026 · Chapter 2: Healing begins

What a marvelous chapter, so full of emotion, joy, and gentle comfort. And how beautifully you show us how Éowyn came by her lovely gown and circlet!

Lindelea · 11 January 2026 · Chapter 1: A New World

I, too am fascinated how this re-editing will turn out. I am torn between posting as I go, which is my normal way and posting after the edits are done. I think the second way is good for this sort of process but I am impatient and want to know what people are thinking. What do you think? Hmmm. I've done it both ways. Posting as you go: In the old days, I published my stories on FF.net as I was writing them (i.e. publishing each chapter as it was finished). Then, as I wrote each subsequent chapter, I took reviewers' comments into consideration because they often gave me new insights into the characters or made me aware of something I'd overlooked or hadn't considered. (That said, after I learned my lesson with Runaway, I tended to write the entire first draft to the end before starting to post the draft chapters on ffnet to avoid getting stuck in the middle for whatever reason and unable to finish the story.) Nowadays, I finish writing the draft version to the end, and then I polish each chapter in turn and then post it (sometimes after running it past my current beta reader if I want to check something like continuity or characterization). Without the blessing of regular feedback that lets me know what's working (or not), as in the old days, I'm flying blind, more or less, and simply hoping that readers find the stories interesting and the characters believable. Also, because I tend to read one or two chapters at a time rather than a whole story at a gulp, I post my stories in chunks in the same way. Posting after editing: In the past, after a story was posted in full on ffnet (as described above), I'd give it to my beta readers, and then I posted the edited chapters on SoA. For some of my shorter stories, instead of posting while in progress, I've waited to post them until after beta-reading was complete. I still tend to post one or two chapters at a time. Partly habit, partly time constraints. I've started cross-posting to An Archive of Our Own, but that's a whole 'nother animal. I think the way that site works best is to post an entire finished work all at once. I'm not quite sure about it yet, but that seems to me to be the way to go with that site. I'm still kind of feeling my way, in part because so many of my stories have so many chapters. It's my own fault, of course. (And even here in this comment, I can feel myself starting to ramble...)

Lindelea · 10 January 2026 · Chapter 1: A New World

MM! What a lovely treat to begin the weekend! I'm quite looking forward to seeing this project develop. The beginning is perfect! Especially She still kept up residence in the Houses of Healing, not because she needed to but because it now felt like home. – it marvellously conveys the change in Éowyn's life and heart and mindset. The first paragraph is infused with peace and serenity and newness and hope and determination. Her sudden encounter with Aragorn presents a jarring contrast. But I had perfect confidence that he would go and find her as quickly as possible and continue (complete?) her healing... and, as it turns out, Faramir's healing as well. It is interesting to see the different approaches Aragorn employs with Éowyn and Faramir, skilfully tailored to the personality and needs of each, and satisfyingly effective. (((hugs))) Lin

shirebound · 9 January 2026 · Chapter 1: A New World

What a beautiful and joyous chapter. How lovely it must be to be able to 'feel' hope in the air! I especially like these phrases: "now it was time to live for those who would not live to see the new age; who had sacrificed so that it could become a reality." "I was lost, drowning in duty and regret and I saw in you what I did not have. But be happy for me. I am no longer lost and a gentle heart has won me.”