I am crying, sobbing. Beautiful!

So much about this was so beautiful, I don't even know where to start. I think your idea of Pippin, Merry, and Faramir being the children of Bo's heart was absolutely beautiful. I loved how you articulated the thought that Boromir was not meant to have a wife or children, because he could never love anyone as he loved those three. I have always felt that way myself but could never put it into words, so thank you for that.

And the statues of Merry and Pip beside the one of Boromir, in the shadow of his blade, was meaningful and fitting. And then the flowers that grew with the symbols of them on the petals really touched me. But the thing that got me the most was how another patch of them grew where Boromir died. I just started crying when I read that. Poor, noble Boromir who made a mistake but redeemed himself in the end. I'm glad the people of Gondor gave him such a beautiful and honorable tribute. This is going on my favorites.

I am awed by this story.

My neice's fiance was lost last year--in fact August 8th is the anniversary of the date that he was taken from us by this century's variation of orcs in a land far away from his home. He too was a dutiful son and we miss him dreadfully.

When I realized what this story was about, I wasn't sure I would like it because of our extended family's loss... instead, I feel at peace, having read it, and have an even deeper appreciation for Ryan and his utter belief in doing his duty.

This retired Navy Chief Petty Officer thanks you for this gift of rememberance. May we all remember that the true meaning of duty is love.

Oh my gosh...that was just beautiful. It was so touching. I was crying and sniffling at the end...

Hello there!

This is my first time actually reviewing and not just reading your fics (bad, bad me, I know). Though they're not what I usually prefer, I still like them (how could I not when Boromir and Pippin feature heavily in them?).

This one is, I think, my favourite of all of your stories, even though the 'Bee Charmer' and the others were pretty good too. Can you believe that for a very long time I just sat there wondering if I should read these stories? I'm glad I finally decided to.

They opened up a differant view of the characters for me. I guess the reason I didn't immediately take a shine for them was the more spiritual element in them, but as I reread them (and got a bit older), they grew on me. Back when I first read them, I wasn't really looking for such an interpertation (and I quite possibly didn't understand them). Now I'll read almost anything with Boromir and/or Merry and Pippin. But I like to read these stories when I'm in a contemplative mood, or when I just want something calmer.

Okay, getting to the actual review of this story...
The beginning was quite good, with Bergil remembering Boromir and the unveiling of the statue. I always love to be reminded that the heroes of the War of the Ring were not forgotten and that the lessons learned then were still remembered. Plus, I had always wondered if Elessar put up a statue for Boromir... when I read your story, I liked to imagine that, yes, he did indeed.

I also loved the idea of everyone having a little reunion. Eowyn hugging Pippin was a lovely touch. And the chair with the Simbelmyne, that too. Mustn't forget that.

The visit from Boromir was just a sea of emotions. I was glad that Pippin, Merry and Faramir all had a chance to say goodbye. Although, I must admit, the 'child of my heart' bit, while possible (and quite probable) just was a bit of a stretch for me. I've always imagined it to be more brotherly. But that is just my opinion, and looking at it more objectively, it makes that otherworldly visit just more special.

But the part with the speech was what got me debating if I liked this or not. In my opinion it was way too repetative. And yes, I do realize that you had a reason for the repetativeness. To my thinking, short and simple would have sounded more natural, letting their emotions and expressions say more. Several of the lines were memorable and just right, but when they sprang up more times, I almost thought, when was it going to end? But I got over it :)

The Simbelmyne was another very nice touch. I could just imagine them growing about the statue and at Parth Galen. Little flowers of remembrance, rare and beautiful, just like their relationship with Boromir.

The flowers were what inspired a manip for this fic. I decided to do one after I already made some for Evendim (I think your C2 led me to her). Then I started reviewing some more, so I thought 'why not make some for you?'. I only do them for special stories, because they give me the most inspiration. Send me a mail if you want the 'In the Shadow of his Blade' manip.

Keep up the good work,
Marta

p.s. any spelling/grammer/punctuation mistakes are because English is not my first language. Or it's because of my bad typing skills :)

Just beautiful! How lovely that Boromir, his deeds, and what he stood for, are remembered as he would have wanted them to be remembered. I love the opening and closing scene with Bergil and his grandson - such a nostalgic feel to it, and I love the way that such stories are keeping the memory of Boromir and all the Fellowship alive from generation to generation. Thank you also for these lovely, wise words, and for giving them to Pippin: "Forget not your greatest duty, to love one another." Wonderful.

Lovely! Beautiful great! (running our of adjectives!)

It's good. Very touching. Nothing like a story that makes you go, "aw." I haven't been around lately because my teachers have all seemed to have decided I need more homework. I plan on reading more though. ^_^ I will gladly look at anything you want, whenever you want, just ask.

Oh my goodness... I was crying by the end. It's so touching. I like how the Fellowship gave a memorial to him, and also the Evermind flowers. It's very good.

First off, thank you much for leaving me such a thoughtful review- and also for telling me about this excellent story!

This is very good, and I love how you defend Boromir... Like you put so eloquently, evil seeks to corrupt what is already good. I guess it can leave evil to its own devices...

Anyways, the references to the Bible and God really made this all the more meaningful for me. Excellent use of allusion!

The theme of a father-son relationship was done very well, it really reflected that in all aspects and made the story tie in together very neatly.

Keep writing!

closes eyes for a moment, that was truly beautiful... often those living in peace forget those who purchased their safety with their service and even lives. I have 4 brothers who served, all served and have come home, and I make it a point to thank them every chance I get... thank you

That was beautiful. Excellently written. I will give you a better, longer review when I have time, but I do not at the moment.

Beautiful, beautiful, story Pipkin! I love how you so effortlessly weave in spiritual aspects into your tales--Bee Charmer is another one. Your characters have always been expertly written, and the stories capture me from the first sentence. A wonderful tale, and I'm eagerly waiting for your next story!

Pippinfan/Teriadoc
p.s. You mentioned a ghost writer? Please let His Ghostliness know (Beornomir) that he did a good job, too! ;-)

You are, m'dear, most welcome.

This is a proud and noble story. It deeply touched me. I have a good and dutiful citizen-soldier son who is currently doing his duty in Iraq. I have good and dutiful daughter who is being a good mother to two boys who are not her own blood. They are both loving and caring young adults.

It truly is what we do and give in love that matters. Thank you for what you have given in love to me personally, and to many via your stories.