The Return of the King: Being the Third Part of the Lord of the Rings (The Lord of the Rings, 3)

I have loved Tolkien's Lord of the Rings trilogy since the first time I read it in 6th grade. I say that so that up front you have an understanding that this review is written by a Tolkien fan. I have read just about all of his books, and enjoyed them all. The purchase of this book was an impulse buy in that I wanted all 3 books in the trilogy to be of the same edition so that the style of the artwork is all the same. I know, that sounds a little odd, but I have that human compunction that things in a series should look like they belong to that series. Previously, each of the LOTR books I owned were from different editions, and it always bugged me. Anyway... The cover of this book is taken from an illustration by J.R.R. Tolkien probably one of the many drawings he made while developing the Middle Earth concept. The image is printed in gold ink on the cover. The image is a little cryptic, and it makes one feel like they found an ancient manuscript from Middle Earth. I think this is much better than a dramatic scene of an epic battle which would only remind one that they are looking into this world and yet are not a part of it. The book itself contains the last two books (5 and 6) of the Lord of the Rings saga as well as the Appendices to the whole Lord of the Rings trilogy. The book starts with a small synopsis so that you are reminded of what has happened up to this point, and then starts with the arrival of Gandalf and Pippen at Minas Tirith. Tolkien does a great job of painting a picture of the tension in Minas Tirith. Everyone in the city knows this is where Sauron's next strike will be and that the fate of mankind hinges on the outcome of the coming battle. Next we are taken to Rohan where King Théoden is rounding up the Rohirrim in an attempt to bring aid to Gondor. They will sorely need the bravery of King Théoden's calvary in the battle to come. Then there is the battle of Pelennor Fields itself and the aftermath. One of the nice things about the book versus the Peter Jackson movie is that you can see the love developing between Eowin and Faramir instead of only a momentary glance like we received in the movie. And, let's not forget Frodo and Sam. Book 6 brings to conclusion what the other 900 or so pages of the trilogy has led up to. Here we see the effects of the ring on the relationship of Frodo and Sam, and how Frodo sees his own reflection in Gollum. There is a palpable sense of how heavy the burden of bearing the Ring has become and you can sense Frodo is nearly at his wits end. And what makes it all worse is that no one can trust Gollum who is leading them closer to Mount Doom but is being coy and truly devious. Throughout the Lord of the Ring trilogy up to this point, my favorite character was Gandalf. Who wouldn't like someone that powerful and wise. But as I read the books and each time I re-read the books, I find I like Sam more and more. And in The Return of the King, Sam truly shines as his loyalty and his love for Frodo never falter even as the difficulties and the challenges mount. The appendices are also great for delving further into the background of the world of the Lord of the Rings. We get a look at the lines of kingship not only for the history of the kings of Numenor, but also a history of the Stewards of Gondor. There is a tale of Aragorn and Arwen. There is a look at the history of the Second Age (the age prior to the Third Age, the age where Lord of the Rings takes place), and finally a Pronunciation of Words and Names in the Common Speech. Truly, Tolkien spent a lot of time imagining this world and the beings who dwell there in. This was no mere dashing off a story on a Sunday afternoon, this took years and years of effort on Tolkien's part, and you get a glimpse of how much effort he went to in the Appendices. Anyway, I can't say enough about all 3 Lord of the Rings books. I highly recommend these books, and I hope this review helps someone decide if this book is right for them.

J.R.R. Tolkien's "The Return of the King" is perfect conclusion to the trilogy; additionally it is a profound exploration of Christian themes like redemption, sacrifice, and the victory of good over evil. Reading this book, you cannot detach the biblical parables and teachings, if you do, you will completely miss the weight of this beautiful story.

The journey towards redemption is a core element of the narrative, illustrated through characters who embody forgiveness and change. Aragorn's ascent to the throne is not just a tale of a king reclaiming his crown but reflects the Christian belief in fulfilling one's God-given destiny despite past failures or doubts. Similarly, characters like Theoden and Boromir, who overcome personal failings, remind us of the power of grace and the possibility of redemption through faith and courage.

The battle between the forces of good and evil in Tolkien's world can be seen as a reflection of the Christian battle between light and darkness. However, the ultimate triumph of good in "The Return of the King" resonates deeply with the Christian faith in the ultimate victory of God's kingdom. The perseverance of Frodo and Sam in their quest, despite the overwhelming shadow of Sauron, mirrors the Christian journey of faith through trials and tribulations.

Suffering and sacrifice are portrayed not as pointless hardships but as necessary paths to glory, a theme deeply rooted in Christian theology. Frodo's sacrifices, in particular, echo the concept of bearing one's cross. His willingness to suffer for the greater good, to carry a burden that was not his by choice, mirrors the sacrificial love at the heart of Christianity. The message is clear: through suffering and sacrifice, redemption and salvation are found.

In "The Return of the King," Tolkien weaves a narrative that uplifts the spirit and speaks to the heart of Christian values. The victory of good over evil, the importance of faith and forgiveness, and the power of sacrifice for the greater good are themes that not only provide depth to the story but also offer hope and inspiration. This book, with its rich Christian allegory, is more than an epic tale; it's a reminder of the enduring power of faith and the promise of redemption for all.

This story doesn't just deserve praise for its adventure and fantasy; it's a beacon of light, showcasing the strength of Christian principles in the face of darkness. "The Return of the King" captures the essence of the Christian journey — the belief that through faith, sacrifice, and perseverance, there is always hope for redemption and renewal.