Yahoo Forum Archive

Happy New Year to all!

Title: Droplets · Author: Dawn Felagund · Times: Multi-Age:
Fixed-Length Ficlet · ID: 566
Reviewer: Rhapsody · 2007-12-29 19:37:49 Score: 10
[this has spoilers]

[Droplets] written by Dawn is just one of her many master pieces in
which she so often manages to crawl under the character’s skin to
portray their world and emotions. Elrond’s name is associated with
water and this theme is woven into every double drabble within this
series in its many forms. It starts with Elrond as a little child and
here Dawn sticks marvellously to the child perceptions on what is
going on, from there you see Elrond growing in front of your eyes.
Throughout the years you can see how the events, losses and weariness
of Elrond nearly weighs him down and you wonder how he can hang on,
especially when he ponders the using of his ring and how it mocks him
so. I am aware that this sounds like a short story, yet every drabble
will give every Elrond fangirl something to go back to and enjoy:
whether it is for a wedding, or some angst featuring Elros or what to
say about his homecoming in Valinor. I find it hard to say which
drabble within this series is my favourite, especially since all is so
incredibly tied to the other. I just can’t help to think how the rains
of Arda helped Elrond shoulder all the responsibilities that came on
his path and his homesickness to ME (despite being with his wife
again), deeply moved me. What a magnificent series Dawn!

Title: The Essence of Fire · Author: Rhapsody · Genres: Drama: General
Drabble · ID: 278
Reviewer: Oshun · 2007-12-29 19:39:22 Score: 7
The last line in this drabble is fascinating. The earlier language
building up to it, although beautifully written did not in and of
itself break any new ground for me, but the last line sparked my
curiosity and set my imagination moving. I spend far too much time
thinking about the sons of Feanor and trying to understand, who they
are as individuals (in what ways did the differ from one another) and
what motivated them. (I compare them to historical figures did ill
deeds or exercised poor judgment in the service of what they believed
was the right, instead seeing them as dupes or villains. So simple
teeth-gnashing sorrow, anger, or regret does not work for me.)
Curufin, however, has always been the least accessible to me. He is
said to be like Fëanor, but we have more canon clues into the
contradictions in Fëanor’s character. The last line me some beginning
of insight into him view with your use of the conception of closure
and a path leading to the future.

Title: All in a Day's Work · Author: Gwynnyd · Genres: Adventure:
Fixed-Length Ficlet · ID: 421
Reviewer: Elena Tiriel · 2007-12-29 19:43:39 Score: 5
(Possible spoilers within:)

This is one of those drabble series that shows the best of that
particular form. Each drabble is good, but the whole is even better
than the sum of its parts.

After a Corsair slave ship attacks a village, the Prince of Dol Amroth
uses a heavily-laden merchant vessel as irresistible bait for a trap.

Each character's voice and actions are just right for his role (for
example, the merchant's agent bewails the careless offloading of
merchandise from his ship). Each step is full of little details that
make it convincing, and the ambush succeeds.

In other words, Imrahil saves the day, which is as it should be in any
swashbuckler worth its salt!

Title: The spaces between two silences · Author: illyria-pffyffin ·
Genres: Drama: With Aragorn · ID: 677
Reviewer: obsidianj · 2007-12-29 19:54:28 Score: 5
This piece spans the time from the betrothal, to the wedding feast and
then the end in a powerful, poetic language, although they are only
short scenes. Arwen and Aragorn come alive as people I can relate to.
Not the distant, iconic hero and his wife the Queen, but a living
people. I loved Aragorn's tale about the Haradric feast. It makes him
human. Arwen's delight at the charm the woman threw her during their
wedding celebration connects her to her new chosen people and again
makes her come alive to me. The wedding feast is painted in vivid
pictures and I could see the colorful dancers in my mind. The end is
heartbreaking and still hopeful.

Title: Sarn Gebir · Author: agape4gondor · Genres: Adventure:
Fixed-Length Ficlet · ID: 398
Reviewer: Elena Tiriel · 2007-12-29 19:55:10 Score: 5
(Possible spoilers within:)

This is a chilling vignette of one small part of the journey of the
Fellowship, and also an interesting character sketch of Boromir, at
the point where the Fellowship's boats almost founder at Sarn Gebir.
Boromir seems to have a very low opinion of Aragorn's leadership,
especially after they blunder into the shoals and the ambush at the
rapids. It takes enormous strength to get them away from the rocks
against Anduin's current, and Boromir wishes he had more solid Men of
Gondor to help. That is telling, as is the last line, hinting that he
is being unduly influenced by an external force.

Title: The Taming of the Badger · Author: Pentangle · Genres: Drama:
With Aragorn · ID: 234
Reviewer: obsidianj · 2007-12-29 19:57:31 Score: 5
Aragorn as a young man has to take command of a ranger outpost earlier
than expected. Most of the rangers welcome the son of their lost
chieftain with open arms, but there is one in their midst who resents
the new lord. Kenuric, an original character, is the chief healer of
the camp and he doesn't hide his dislike for his young chieftain. It
takes some doing from Aragorn and the help of some of the other
rangers until Aragorn and Kenuric come to some understanding. I love
Kenuric as an original character. He comes alive in this tale and his
motivations for his rejection of his new lord are heartbreaking.

Title: Lift the Wings · Author: Imbecamiel · Genres: Romance: Pre-Ring
War · ID: 376
Reviewer: obsidianj · 2007-12-29 19:59:33 Score: 5
This is the first story I read which describes the actual parting
scene between Elrond and Celebrian. The sorrow is palpable, and I like
the nearly understated grief of Elrond. For Celebrian's sake he keeps
it together as good as he can. I especially like Celebrian in this
piece. She is frail and tired of Middle-earth, but she is still able
to discuss the plans for the near future of her family with Elrond and
give him some cryptic prophetic words as parting gift.

This story is very well written. The only thing that marred my
enjoyment was the, to my mind, unnecessary killing off of Gilraen
together with Arathorn. Even with Gilraen around, Elrond could still
be the one to comfort Estel in his nightmares.

Title: Riders to the Sea · Author: claudia6032000 · Genres: Alternate
Universe: The Shire or Buckland · ID: 158
Reviewer: obsidianj · 2007-12-29 20:02:03 Score: 4
I love this alternate universe. Frodo can meet Strider any day for my
taste. I like the way you describe Frodo's wanderings through the
Shire. It is a beautiful landscape. Only when he meets Strider, the
reader gets a glimpse that there is a dangerous world out there, and
that maybe even the Shire is not safe. I loved it that Frodo bumped
into one of Strider's weapons at every turn. But my favorite part was
when Strider tells Frodo of the outside world and Frodo slips into
dreams. That part has a magical quality to it.

Title: The Third Eagle · Author: Imhiriel · Times: Late Third Age:
3018-3022 TA: General Drabble · ID: 630
Reviewer: Elena Tiriel · 2007-12-29 20:20:13 Score: 4
(Possible spoilers within:)

This is a poignant vignette; Meneldor goes with Gwaihir and Landroval
to pick up Frodo and Sam on the slopes of Mount Doom after the
Destruction of the One Ring, but only two eagles were really needed.
Meneldor is young and proud, and hurt that he couldn't do anything but
accompany the other two eagles.

We get a glimpse into the mind of an eagle, and he feels both pride at
being selected and then empathy for the two beleaguered Hobbits... all
in all, a very honorable and sympathetic character!

Title: City of Trees · Author: Gwynnyd · Races: Elves: With Mirkwood
Elves · ID: 641
Reviewer: Elena Tiriel · 2007-12-29 20:45:35 Score: 5
(Possible spoilers within:)

Oh, I really enjoy this story! Celeborn is such a moody Sindarin Elf
here, giving Thranduil plenty of opportunity to tease him. Celeborn
misses Galadriel so much he can rattle off exactly how many days they
have been separated... and then claim it doesn't matter to him!

The back-and-forth between these two left me grinning widely... like
["If she has razed all the trees and paved the land in marble, I do
not wish to hear it."] Oh, ye of little faith, Celeborn!

But my favorite part is the lengths Galadriel will go to build a city,
but one that Celeborn will feel at home in. He may not realize it at
this point, but she loves him just as fiercely as he loves her.

Well done!

Title: Rock and Hawk · Author: Adaneth · Races: Cross-Cultural · ID: 221
Reviewer: Jael · 2007-12-29 20:56:53 Score: 7
I would never in a million years have believed that I could be so
enchanted by a story that features all original characters, all the
time, and nary an elf in sight, but here I am, proved wrong. Rock and
Hawk (indeed, all the stories of the Dunhebaid Cyle) is simply splendid!

This story is what I would call high quality historical fiction set in
the world of JRR Tolkien. However, it is a novel of people and their
often strange ways. A strange, solitary Dunadan woman living on the
shores north of Lindon, is forced by circumstance into an odd
friendship with a Dwarf and into becoming a leader of her people.
Adaneth has a wonderful way with words -- each line of dialogue and
exposition packs incredible meaning. And the descriptions of the land
and the life these people led is utterly superb.

I find myself wanting to learn more and more about Saelon and Veylin
-- and the folks who surround them. Since Adaneth is on her third
sequel in this wonderful cycle, I will get my chance. Jael says, check
this one out!

Title: Marking Fours · Author: Raksha the Demon · Times: Multi-Age:
Fixed-Length Ficlet · ID: 1
Reviewer: Elena Tiriel · 2007-12-29 21:01:16 Score: 4
(Possible spoilers within:)

A poignant and bittersweet tale of Faramir's slow recovery from grief
over Denethor's death, so close after Boromir's.

There is shock at the fact of Denethor's death, and then the manner of
his death, and then the intent to kill Faramir, too. But Faramir
builds a new life with a wife and son, and there is finally grief not
just for Faramir's own loss, but for the the loss of the person that
Denethor could have been.

It is both warm and sad at the same time. Well done!

Title: Maitimo and Findekáno · Author: Oshun · Genres: Romance: Second
Age or Earlier · ID: 57
Reviewer: Jael · 2007-12-29 21:11:02 Score: 6
This story, the beginning of Oshun's Maitimo and Findekano cycle, has
to be my favorite of all of them. From the outset, the detail is rich
-- Finwe's court at Tirion, a snapshot of Feanor and Nerdanel arriving
at a gathering, two young would-be lovers among the trees.

As ever, Oshun's strength in writing is the warm-spirited depiction of
family life, even in the face of a relationship that will have its
problems in greater Elven society. Oshun makes me want to be a part of
this family; to meet these people.

At the story's sweet climax, I can't help but weep for the young
lovers, knowing what the future holds in store for them.

I regret I lack the eloquence to do this story justice. All I can say
is, read this story. I cannot recommend it enough.

Title: It's No Mystery, Really · Author: grey_wonderer · Races:
Hobbits: Merry and Pippin · ID: 36
Reviewer: Rhapsody · 2007-12-29 21:14:41 Score: 5
Ah such joys for those who care for the ill. Pippin is ill and in this
piece, GW captures Merry's care and almost infinite patience so
wonderfully. This is a cute little story where even feeling so ill,
Pippin realises what the problem is although it at first is hidden as
the plot in Merry’s book (hence the title of the story). I loved the
banter between them, it felt like such a realistic quarrel between
brothers. GW explores the friendship and dynamics between those two
quite wonderfully, marking their special friendship even during bad times.

Title: A Collection of Sindarin Tanka · Author: juno_magic · Genres:
Poetry · ID: 224
Reviewer: Marta · 2007-12-29 21:17:00 Score: 5
I marvel at anyone who can write poems in a foreign language,
especially those Tolkien invented for Middle-earth. And while I do not
read Sindarin, the meter seems to flow and the translations Juno
offers are quite poetic. They do a marvellous job of capturing the
natural world of Middle-earth, and with the chosen illustrations
really transport the reader. And I slipped into the world of these
short poems effortlessly, which is a real accomplishment for poetry in
my opinion -- many poems, including classics of great beauty, I have
to invest a lot of work into in order to thoroughly get. I highly
recommend these tankas to anyone who enjoys poetry.

Title: Not Fade Away · Author: Jael · Genres: Drama: Elves in Later
Ages · ID: 127
Reviewer: Elena Tiriel · 2007-12-29 21:20:25 Score: 10
(Possible spoilers within:)

This is a fascinating story set in modern-day Chicago of a woman who
is at her lowest point after a divorce from her venal lawyer of a
husband, whom she had supported through law school with dead-end jobs
until he graduated and dumped her.

She has artistic talent, though, and on a whim applies for a job as an
illustrator with a Dale Toy Company... a job she never expects to get
without an art degree.

But to her surprise, she gets the job and is befriended by a wide
variety of very odd hippy-ish sort of people whom she discovers to be
Elves... namely, Thranduil, his wife, Legolas, and a wide variety of
others, including Haldir and his brothers from <i>The Lord of the
Rings</i>, and Galion from <i>The Hobbit</i>.

Her adventures are many, varied, and always a surprise... and, in the
end, she finds a happy home.

I found the characters really interesting, and the situation both
believable and compelling. There are luscious details -- the woman
turns out to be one of many descendants of Aragorn and Arwen, and
there are some funny hints that some really creative people throughout
history (Frank Lloyd Wright, for example) are really "one of them".

I find many Tolkien fanfics set in modern day to be either silly or
uninteresting, but this one truly makes us care about these characters
and how they will continue to thrive in the future. I like this story
so much that I've re-read it several times over the last few months,
and highly recommend it.

Title: Frodo's Thoughts - Boromir · Author: trikywun · Genres: Drama:
General Drabble · ID: 674
Reviewer: Nancy Brooke · 2007-12-29 21:27:11 Score: 2
How typically poignant of Frodo to blame himself for bearing the means
of Boromir's temptation!

Title: All that is gold... · Author: Perelleth · Genres: Humor:
Children · ID: 42
Reviewer: Linda hoyland · 2007-12-29 21:28:17 Score: 3
A delightful story about a meeting that I'm sure many Tolkien fans
liked to believe happened,that between Bilbo and little Estel. I like
the way the writer foreshadows future events in this charming tale.

Title: The Love of Lore · Author: Oshun · Races: Men: Gondor · ID: 271
Reviewer: Marta · 2007-12-29 21:30:58 Score: 3
These are really nice ficlets, capturing Faramir's character in rather
original moments. I particularly liked the last line of the second one
- that ["perhaps not for his father's son"] bit cracked me up, and at
the same time created a nice image of Faramir and Aragorn as friends
in the Fourth Age.

Title: Three Arrows · Author: HikoMokushi · Genres: Drama: With Merry
· ID: 717
Reviewer: Nancy Brooke · 2007-12-29 21:32:17 Score: 1
["Sometimes I wake up late at night because the blare from the Horn of
Gondor is ringing in my ears"] almost says it all!

Title: The haunting of Minas Tirith · Author: Fawsley · Genres:
Alternate Universe: Gondor or Rohan · ID: 651
Reviewer: Nancy Brooke · 2007-12-29 21:35:54 Score: 1
Very amusing!

Title: A Truth Universally Acknowledged · Author: annmarwalk · Genres:
Humor: Gondor or Rohan · ID: 556
Reviewer: Nancy Brooke · 2007-12-29 21:40:02 Score: 3
Very amusing, particularly for its brevity. The author knows when not
to belabour the joke. But seriously, folks, this is well cribbed, and
originally arranged. A nutty bit of confection.

Title: Inroads · Author: Raksha the Demon · Races: Men: Other
Fixed-Length Ficlet · ID: 45
Reviewer: Rhapsody · 2007-12-29 21:47:09 Score: 5
[Spoilers, I think]

Oh this is beautifully done, even though Éowyn is used to court
etiquette and alike, still this nearly feels like a different culture
to her. Raksha portrays Éowyn as the intruder quite well, this all
with the shield maiden’s own observations of the ladies of Gondor
court. She wants to belong and yet it feels as if she is placed above
them: I love this eye for character detail and it shows through in
this ficlet. Still Éowyn does what she thinks must be done, and the
conflict that was on Eowyn's path is gracefully over won. I think
Raksha handles these turning points quite well and makes good use of
natural language to convey the thoughts and political intrigue of the
courts.

Title: Point, Counterpoint · Author: Marta · Races: Villains: Drabble
· ID: 573
Reviewer: Rhapsody · 2007-12-29 21:56:06 Score: 4
[spoiler alert]

Hmmm this is an intriguing drabble in which Melkor seeks for the flame
imperishable, but once he can't find it, he ruins it for the others.
Well not in his mind of course, to him it is justified to share his
anguish instead of going back to [the One], because that is what
family is for. This is a creative take on the Ainulindalë and what
happened that caused such discord. One can only imagine how it did
sound at the forced [counterpoint]. Nicely drabbled.

Title: Droplets · Author: Dawn Felagund · Times: Multi-Age:
Fixed-Length Ficlet · ID: 566
Reviewer: Elena Tiriel · 2007-12-29 21:58:06 Score: 6
(Possible spoilers within:)

This is a superb series of nine double-drabbles about Elrond, spanning
from when Maglor and Maedhros find him and his brother to after his
reunion with Celebrian in the Blessed Land. Each chapter is
beautifully wrought, with strongly evocative language.

True to the character of Elrond, there is an underlying melancholy
about the series, as one important person after another leaves him,
including Elros, his own twin brother, ageing before his very eyes.
Perhaps the most despairing vignette is after Arwen declares her
choice, when he feels that the emptiness of Rivendell and the very
song of its fountains mock him, and he even considers abandoning
Vilya. But, in the end, his father leads him to Aman, where he
reestablishes a life with his beloved wife.

Very beautifully done!

Title: Night of Love · Author: Linda hoyland · Genres: Romance: Gondor
· ID: 617
Reviewer: Rhapsody · 2007-12-29 22:06:22 Score: 3
[Spoilers ahoy]

Those two will have a hard time adjusting in this new place and from
the way Linda addressed both concerns, Arwen the most. Luckily enough
comes Galadriel to the rescue and they can get past that moment both
had wondered for so long how it would be. Very sweetly written,
although I hope that they will get adjusted to this stone city.

Title: Glimpse of Glory · Author: Linda hoyland · Times: Late Third
Age: 3018-3022 TA: General Drabble · ID: 575
Reviewer: Rhapsody · 2007-12-29 22:10:58 Score: 3
It isn't easy to capture the thoughts of Galadriel in just 100 words,
and this drabble has that book feel over it. I found this a lovely
interpretation of the challenge, just the combination of a [gasping
Galadriel] combined with the offering of the ring by Frodo gave me a
nice visual of the scene. Nice work Linda!

Title: The Perfect Girl · Author: nikara · Genres: Non-Fiction · ID: 232
Reviewer: dkpalaska · 2007-12-29 22:20:14 Score: 5
Well-written and comprehensive look at the dreaded Mary Sue. It was
one of the first terms I learned after discovering fanfiction, and I
was surprised at the virulence surrounding her existence. It didn't
take me long to realize that as a fantasy/SF reader I'd always had my
own Mary Sues - I simply hadn't had a term for them before.

The point that many Mary Sues are the product of immature writers is
well-taken. It is also true that "Mary Sues are in the eye of the
beholder". I've seen well-loved OFCs, generally thought wholly
believable, be labeled "unrealistic" by other readers. We all bring
our biases to the table and should strive to be aware of that in our
judgments; and most of all: Be Kind.

Title: No Escape · Author: Aranel Took · Times: Mid Third Age: 2851 -
3017 TA: Drabble · ID: 324
Reviewer: dkpalaska · 2007-12-29 22:20:48 Score: 4
Chilling and powerful, this drabble does a superb job of capturing the
demise of the Dwarves' colonization of Moria. Their combined
desperation and bravery is evident, and the tension inexorably builds
until we get the shock at the end: they will kill themselves, children
and all, rather than allow anyone to be taken alive.

Excellent descriptions and characterization of the female Dwarf, and
of the sounds they hear in the distance signaling the approaching end.

Title: The End of Dark Days · Author: annmarwalk/EdorasLass CoAuthors
· Genres: Drama: Minas Tirith · ID: 56
Reviewer: dkpalaska · 2007-12-29 22:21:56 Score: 9
A very moving look at the aftermath of the war from the ground level.
Nanny has a unique perspective with her tight ties to the Steward's
family, but we see her interact with her own family as well, and these
are in fact among my favorite scenes. (And how wonderful it was to see
her and Durvain together - I love the story behind how they met and
their newly-fragile relationship in ["Under My Wing"].)

Edoraslass does not spare her protagonist from the war's effects, and
her shock and dismay at her first sight of both Tirith and her damaged
family are very effectively written. The same goes for how annmarwalk
utilizes her practical Mag's thoughts and descriptions of the horrible
events she witnessed: it is all the more chilling for the immediacy
they held for her character. Their combined effort is well-blended and
an excellent addition to their personal MT universe.

However, there is *no way* this can be "Complete"! I want to see Nanny
and Mag figure out the King is Thorongil-who-Nanny-didn't-like. I want
to see Nanny visit Faramir, and ambush Eowyn, and meet Pippin and
Merry, and most particularly: bump into Prince Imrahil. Please?

Title: Mighty among both Elves and Men · Author: Tanaqui · Times:
Multi-Age: Fixed-Length Ficlet · ID: 606
Reviewer: dkpalaska · 2007-12-29 22:23:13 Score: 7
Each of these drabbles is self-contained and succinct, and yet
features a wealth of detail. Tanaqui is adept at spinning the lyrical
phrase, the simple but breath-taking description, the masterful
connection that I had previously missed; and these repeatedly deliver.
It is a bonus for her readers that she still has a long way to go on
this personal tour of the lore-master's life. (Hint, hint!)

One of my favorite themes may be Elrond's caution about his Noldorin
heritage. I can see it sing to him in ["Laying the foundations"], and
the stab of anxiety over it in ["Bloodline"]. His meeting with a
certain colorful figure of M-e might be the most delightful for me,
although I also loved his earnest proposal to Celebrian with its
mention of a ring that would not weigh on him. However, my favorite of
the bunch (so far) is probably ["Echoes"]: there are so many layers
and emotions and links to his past, and the imagery and allusions are
all incredibly tight and poignant.

Title: Faint Heart Never Won Fair Lady · Author: Marta · Genres:
Romance: Gondor · ID: 604
Reviewer: dkpalaska · 2007-12-29 22:24:01 Score: 4
I love the interaction between Faramir and Hurin in this, and the way
it is Hurin's idea to have Faramir give Eowyn the cloak. It is
extremely practical, even with the romantic underpinnings, and
certainly something that would appeal to a woman of Eowyn's strength
of character. It's good that perceptive Hurin shows up, in fact:
Faramir could use advice from someone who cares about him, but who is
also at the same time somewhat removed. Hurin aptly suggests a
stealthy approach to the former Ranger, as opposed to an outright pursuit.

Title: The Dancer · Author: annmarwalk · Genres: Drama: Minas Tirith ·
ID: 150
Reviewer: dkpalaska · 2007-12-29 22:24:51 Score: 7
Augh! This is devastatingly sad. The narrator's voice is extremely
well done. I was drawn right into her narrow world, her hopeful and
then hopeless feelings for Denethor... her brave - so brave -
acceptance of Vinyarion's invitation (and I love that he is gentle
with her distress). She would have indeed made a worthy wife of the
Steward.

The descriptions of Denethor were wonderful. I adore the way he is
brought to life as a graceful, virile, handsome and charming man; it
gives his later despair and descent into madness an even more horrible
cast. The writing is excellent, too: even though we know the end to
his story, I was as impatient as the lady when he was slowly and so
tantalizingly building up to asking for her correspondence.

Denethor's love of Finduilas takes on a complex bittersweetness
because of my total sympathy for Irilde, and the end of her own
story... That was terrible. I wish she could have had at least one son
left to bring her joy, and I do hope that her marriage was happy in
its way.

Title: The Accidental King: Five Reasons Why Finarfin Deserves an
Appreciation Month · Author: Dawn Felagund · Genres: Non-Fiction · ID: 5
Reviewer: dkpalaska · 2007-12-29 22:26:06 Score: 10
Dawn Felagund has written a highly-organized, intelligently-explored
essay that is also extremely entertaining. I love the description of
Finarfin as ["the accidental king"], as it highlights one of his
greatest accomplishments touched on further in the text.

Dawn is an excellent writer, and she puts her talent to good use here.
The tone is conversational and personal, with appropriate quotes
smoothly worked into the narrative itself. The scholarly effort is
obvious, but the result is enjoyable and easy to read. I also liked
the non-Tolkien quotes used at the beginning of each section - they
set up the following points very well.

Each argument is made clearly and reasonably, and the author notes
personal interpretations and extrapolations, although none are out of
line. The conclusions drawn from the sources make perfect sense to me,
and in truth I remembered most of the Silm quotes from my many
readings of the book - but I had never quite put them together so
succinctly. I am especially thinking of the specific time at which
Finarfin left Feanor's host to return to Valinor, and the conditions
under which he took up the kingship.

I had neither negative or positive opinions about Finarfin before
reading this, but am now convinced: He deserves *at least* his own
month, and a great deal of respect.

Title: The Anglo-Saxons and the Rohírrim · Author: willow_41z ·
Genres: Non-Fiction · ID: 585
Reviewer: dkpalaska · 2007-12-29 22:26:39 Score: 5
Very interesting and well-composed review of one of the common
possible sources of Rohirric culture. The discussion is intelligent
and easy to follow, and the conclusion is completely reasonable.

I appreciate the author's personal opinion that Tolkien envisioned the
Rohirrim as what he wished the Anglo-Saxons could have been. He
borrowed what he liked of their culture (particularly from a
philological standpoint) and went on to compile the remainder in the
same light as the rest of the cultures: in the manner of a grand epic,
in which the best and most noble is highlighted.

Title: Tolkien's Usage of "Thou" and "Thee" · Author: DrummerWench ·
Genres: Non-Fiction · ID: 443
Reviewer: dkpalaska · 2007-12-29 22:27:39 Score: 9
Like the author, I grew up believing "thou" and "thee" were formal
variations. It was a bit of a shock to realize that the opposite is true.

This is a subject I could have easily become confused over, but the
author has generated an extremely clearly written essay that truly
enlightened me. As someone with a rather intuitive approach to grammar
in general, I immediately appreciated the initial section that
outlined the correct terminology.

Even better, DrummerWench's examples from Tolkien and subsequent
explanations have thoroughly deepened my appreciation and
understanding of those scenes. Despite many previous readings, I would
have never caught on by myself - Tolkien's note in the appendices
notwithstanding.

The culling and presentation of book quotes is unbelievably thorough,
and are expounded on through the author's discussion in a very
readable and well-developed way. The writing is flowing and
entertaining, and successfully keeps the work from becoming at all
dull. This is an excellent contribution to Tolkien fanfic, and an
important resource for both writers and readers.

Title: In Body and Mind · Author: Nessime · Races: Cross-Cultural:
Drabble · ID: 759
Reviewer: dkpalaska · 2007-12-29 22:29:13 Score: 7
What a lovely, evocative drabble... There are many details that help
spin the background out with a minimal use of words: the Halflings'
presence gives us a placement in time, the Hall of Fire, Aragorn and
Arwen's story. Wonderful writing and construction, also, bringing me
right into the scene. The mysterious, unknown Elf is very compelling;
I hope that her tale does get told in full one day, especially as she
seems to feel a connection to Men that at least somewhat parallels her
neighbor's.

I love the descriptions drawn from her memory as the minstrel's song
pulls her thoughts back in time. Given the powerful and
never-diminishing force of Elven memory, it is no wonder that she
opens her eyes to what she thinks is a waking dream. Excellent,
excellent use of the relevant quotes to connect the dots between
little-known Elendur and Estel. It reminds me that the Northern line
was ever unbroken, and bred true. Well done!

Title: Celeborn's Trees · Author: Isabeau of Greenlea · Races: Elves:
Fixed-Length Ficlet · ID: 514
Reviewer: dkpalaska · 2007-12-29 22:32:14 Score: 5
A lovely and inspired response to the Tolerance Challenge. There
likely was a great deal of superiority complex flourishing among the
Noldor when they rejoined their long-sundered kin. I have wondered how
Galadriel's "intermarriage" with Celeborn was viewed among her
Noldorin kin; and it would figure that her relatives would manage to
offer insult, whether intended or not...

I love the characters of Galadriel and Celeborn here, and their
exchange is marvelous. Celeborn might get ticked off over callous
remarks about his people, but I think he is well-grounded enough to
shrug them off personally - and he knows who mighty Galadriel turns to
for her own comfort. Nicely done!

Title: The Eagle's Gift · Author: Raksha the Demon · Genres: Drama:
Minas Tirith · ID: 591
Reviewer: dkpalaska · 2007-12-29 22:36:03 Score: 6
Very humorous but also telling exchange between two intense rivals.
(The author's reference to them as ["two alpha males"] is decidedly
spot on and had me laughing before ever starting the story.)
Denethor's irritation under the circumstances is perfectly
understandable, and his private thoughts about Thorongil made for much
amused snickering on my part.

The set-up is nicely constructed, and the characterizations are
enjoyable. I particularly love Denethor's constantly tender thoughts
and concern over his waiting bride. I was glad that he came out ahead
in this little meeting, for he surely deserved it this time. One tiny
characterization that jumped out at me was his reflection about
Thorongil's "imperfectly spoken" Quenya - the obvious error of it (in
connection to a student of Elrond's) made me chuckle, and it spoke
worlds about Denethor's Gondorian pride and superiority complex.

Title: Marking Fours · Author: Raksha the Demon · Times: Multi-Age:
Fixed-Length Ficlet · ID: 1
Reviewer: dkpalaska · 2007-12-29 22:36:38 Score: 9
A deft handling of Faramir's struggle to come to terms with his
father's legacy, post-pyre. I love the way the author has structured
this drabble sequence; her vision of Faramir's grieving process feels
very real. The repetitive "four" not only helps place the events in
the timeline (and they all blend wonderfully into canon), but aids in
the smooth transitions through jumps in time and attitude.

There's also something about the specific moments that Raksha has
chosen that feels very right, although I'm finding it impossible to
adequately frame it in words. Suffice to say, each drabble seems to
ring out like a clear bell, one crystal note that encapsulates the
individual moments perfectly and also contributes to a harmonious whole.

The writing certainly carries the weight of this subject well. Every
word is carefully chosen, phrases beautifully sculpted, and Faramir's
excellent characterization is carried throughout it all in wonderful,
touching details. I find it perfect that his own son, his own foray
into fatherhood, finally allows Faramir to connect to Denethor and
properly grieve.

Title: Who is this Gil-galad, of Whom You Speak? · Author: Erunyauve ·
Genres: Non-Fiction · ID: 250
Reviewer: dkpalaska · 2007-12-29 22:38:17 Score: 9
A very eloquently reasoned and concise collection and discussion of
what little (and I had not realized *how* little) information exists
on Gil-Galad. Relevant quotes are noted, and the author does a good
job of extrapolating and expanding on the final High King's character
from the sparse evidence. The conclusions are reasonable and fit well
with Tolkien's overall vision of Middle-earth I also like that
Gil-Galad's limitations are laid out plainly; rather than diminishing
his character, they serve to make him three-dimensional.

My favorite facet of the arguments may be the delineation of Gil-Galad
as an active king. He paid attention to portents and feelings of
unease, he laid out plans and made allies - all when, truly, he did
not have to, with the eventual destiny of the Firstborn to fade and
pass the baton to Men. The author's vision of him is especially suited
as a "bridge" between the Elves of the First and Third Ages, and this
smooth continuity is perhaps what convinces me most of the accuracy of
the interpretations of the quotes. I wish the author had included what
little we know of his childhood, as additional foundation for the
adult he became.

Title: Blooded · Author: Raksha the Demon · Genres: Drama: Youth · ID: 3
Reviewer: juliaaurelia · 2007-12-29 22:45:45 Score: 10
This is a very fine story, detailing Faramir of Gondor's first true
battle when he was but a young man and known only as the younger son
of the Steward Denethor. As his battle companions sit by telling tales
of the fight, Faramir reflects on the horrors of the battle and how
different it had been compared to what his older brother Boromir had
told him it would be like. This story illustrates how different
battles were until modern times, as in the old days, you had to meet
your enemy close up in order to vanquish him, to fight within arms
length of someone who was trying desperately to kill you, just as you
were trying desperately to kill him. Faramir's horror is real, but he
knows it is his duty to serve Gondor as the Shadow of Mordor comes
ever closer. The ending of this tale is particularly good as Faramir
wishes for the return of the King, never suspecting that he will live
to see it, and will see the Shadow vanquished and Gondor returned
again to glory with himself as Steward. The grammar and spelling are
unimpeachable, and the language is very Tolkienesque, with no jarring
modern phrases to take the reader out of the story. A very
well-crafted piece of fan fiction. The author shows a good
understanding of the character of Faramir as well as a good knowldege
of the tactics of warfare in Tolkien's world.

Title: Steward and Thain · Author: agape4gondor · Races:
Cross-Cultural: The Fellowship · ID: 87
Reviewer: obsidianj · 2007-12-29 22:51:48 Score: 3
This is an endearing story of Boromir's and Pippin's friendship.
During the quest they discover they have a lot in common. I like the
way they get to know each other by telling tales of home and past
exploits. Although it was mostly Pippin doing the talking. But Boromir
is always there with his comments. A very enjoyable read.

Title: Sarn Gebir · Author: agape4gondor · Genres: Adventure:
Fixed-Length Ficlet · ID: 398
Reviewer: obsidianj · 2007-12-29 22:53:52 Score: 4
This ficlet recalls the desperate minutes on the Anduin when the
Fellowship unexpectedly came across the rapids at Sarn Gebir from
Boromir's point of view. I like the characterization of Boromir. He is
a man of action. He doesn't care how they could be already that far.
They hit the rapids and he wants to get out of there immediately. But
Aragorn is their leader and so he waits in frustration.

Title: Reconcilation · Author: Dwimordene · Genres: Drama · ID: 86
Reviewer: Elena Tiriel · 2007-12-29 22:56:06 Score: 8
(Possible spoilers within:)

A fascinating, intricate story of two trainees in the Swan Knights of
Dol Amroth who return to training after having been punished for an
attack on a Haradric colleague by the name of Andrahar.

This is a sort of coming-of-age story for the young men, who face
overwhelming obstacles in rejoining the insular and tight-knit Swan
Knight community. They must prove themselves worthy of respect and
finish their training, despite being the targets of anger and informal
retaliation among their peers, which is not acknowledged or helped by
their commanders until much later.

There are a number of adventures along the way, including hitting the
depths of despair, and rallying to protect a defenseless village
against overwhelming odds from a major Corsair attack.

This story keeps me transfixed each time I read it; the plot is
intricate and the author makes the interactions between characters
rich and real-life and messy, not cut-and-dried, so the situations
seem as complex and ambiguous as they usually do in reality.


Title: Letter to Frodo · Author: AmandaK · Genres: Alternate Universe:
Gondor or Rohan · ID: 540
Reviewer: obsidianj · 2007-12-29 22:57:05 Score: 4
Boromir has survived the War of Rings in this AU and regrets that he
never could ask Frodo for forgiveness. Instead he writes a letter to
Frodo. It is endearing to see him struggle with this letter. I know
well the feeling of agonizing over the 'right' address to a letter. I
liked Faramir's idea of sending the letter in a 'spiritual' way, since
there is no post office in Valinor.

Title: Mentor · Author: Nessime · Times: Second Age: Drabble · ID: 653
Reviewer: Marta · 2007-12-29 22:57:48 Score: 2
Poor Aule. I could see the dread he'd feel over Numenor, and it was
affectively captured here. You made him sound suitably Valar-ish, but
still gave a real connection to Numenor.

Title: Lily of the Valley · Author: Baranduin · Times: Late Third Age:
3018-3022 TA · ID: 682
Reviewer: obsidianj · 2007-12-29 22:59:09 Score: 3
Oh, Frodo and Aragorn could both win prices for stubbornness in this
story. Although Aragorn has the advantage of being bigger than Frodo
as he pointed out. I like the warm friendship with strong hints of
more at the end between those two. It gave me a warm and cozy feeling.

Title: The Green Hill · Author: Baranduin · Races: Cross-Cultural: The
Fellowship · ID: 562
Reviewer: obsidianj · 2007-12-29 23:00:31 Score: 3
This is such a beautiful, sweet little ficlet. Aragorn and Frodo's
friendship comes through loud and clear. I loved the imagery of the
cloud threatening to darken Aragorn's mood, after he relived his most
dearest evening on Cerin Amroth. And then Frodo's assurance. It is the
perfect ending to this little gem.

Title: Wings · Author: ErinRua · Genres: Romance: With Rohirrim · ID: 9
Reviewer: Elena Tiriel · 2007-12-29 23:07:09 Score: 4
(Possible spoilers within:)

A delightful vignette of a King of Rohan learning to love the sea of
his betrothed; Eomer becomes almost drunken and exultant with the
thought of the love of his Lothiriel, and her bemused father Imrahil
witnesses it all.

Good thing that he approves of the marriage.... and is not overmuch
concerned with the possibility of madness in his grandchildren.

itle: Reconcilation · Author: Dwimordene · Genres: Drama · ID: 86
Reviewer: Larner · 2007-12-29 23:07:21 Score: 4
Once again Dwimordene has given us a fantastically detailed look at
life within Gondor, now looking at two young Men returning to their
training to become Swan Knights after a period of demotion to the foot
after taking part in an attack on a Haradrim esquire.

Characters are superbly drawn, and the training based on that of
squires in England and much of Europe during the Middle Ages. One
feels as if one were indeed within Dol Amroth.

Title: Who The Sword Devours · Author: Nancy Brooke · Races: Men · ID: 364
Reviewer: Rhapsody · 2007-12-29 23:09:57 Score: 10
[plenty of spoilers here]

I am not such a fan of Boromir in the books or movies and when asked
why I could answer quite easily. I know that Nancy worked hard and
long on this story, asked a sundry of questions that made me very
curious about it and voila, finally she finished it to post it. [Who
The Sword Devours] might ruffle some feathers of proud Boromir
defenders, but I found Nancy’s take on him confirming all what I don’t
like about this character, yet she did something marvellous with this
character that gave me more insight in what circumstances he lived and
what formed him. This story feels complete and even though I do know
that Nancy loves Boromir dearly, she does not shy away from portraying
his lesser sides with skill. Boromir holds a great passion for his
city and for women, is used to get what he wants, and will use his
power to get there if there are any obstacles in the way. Still, I can
understand, because after all after so many years and the so-called
cabin fever of being contained in this city, I can see why he claims
such reprieve. The Battle of Osgiliath is immensely well described, as
expected it is full of action, but in order to translate all plans and
movements to paper and bring it to your reader, Nancy conveyed this
extremely well.

[So we persevered, row by row. We persevered as the dark deepened and
the stars faded above us. We persevered until that hour of dark when
all souls feel hollow, men shudder and women wake listening; that
desolate hour which neither Dawn nor Night seems ever to own, but
hangs between unclaimed. It changed hands that night in Osgiliath. We
heard the deal struck, though to neither the departing Night nor the
coming Dawn, but to Death. It came in a sudden absence of wind, a
deepening of dark, a deafness of sound ...] This scene alone gave me
the shivers and the ‘meeting’ with the Witch King made it appear in
the story that all time froze: what a moment!

Still not all make it until the end of the story and at the banks of
the Anduin, Boromir realises their own folly:
[Then again I tasted the ash of Mordor on my tongue and knew the
veracity of the Nazgûl’s vision; my proud ignorance the final
arrogance: we were all far beyond saving.]. This combined with his
stay at Tharbad, far away from his beloved city and Minas Tirith, it
seems that Boromir has come to his senses, still though we know he
brings his passion for his city and people to Rivendell. Everything in
this story links so well together: the blindness and arrogance,
understanding of what awaits them and that they just merely bought
time. The brief bits with Denethor and Faramir (although a bit
longer), reveals their difficult family bonds and yet love and care
for another.


Title: Despair · Author: Silivren Tinu · Genres: Drama: The Fellowship
· ID: 171
Reviewer: Larner · 2007-12-29 23:13:26 Score: 3
Legolas awakes in a camp along the Anduin to hear Aragorn and Boromir
arguing as to the advisability of seeking to use the Ring against the
Enemy. In setting out to warn Boromir to turn aside from the conceit
the Ring could be used for good, Legolas finds himself under attack.

Good expression of the tension of this movi-verse gapfiller.

Title: Yule · Author: rhyselle · Races: Hobbits: Merry and Pippin ·
ID: 764
Reviewer: Larner · 2007-12-29 23:14:01 Score: 3
Shortly after meeting Boromir, the warrior taught the Hobbits a custom
celebrated at the turning of the year in Gondor; now Merry and Pippin
repeat it, first themselves alone, but in time with others from Brandy
Hall, remembering those they've always known and loved, both remaining
in Middle Earth and elsewhere.



Title: Elf, Interrupted: Book One: Glorfindel Redux · Author: Fiondil
· Genres: Drama: Elves in Later Ages · ID: 77
Reviewer: Elena Tiriel · 2007-12-29 23:14:37 Score: 4
(Possible spoilers within:)

An interesting story about Glorfindel in the Halls of Mandos, and
especially after he leaves to be re-embodied in the Blessed Realm. All
the major Elven Kings of Aman are featured, as well as Finrod and
Glorfindel and many OCs. Oh, and did I mention the Valar? Each and
every single one of them....

For that matter, did I mention the Valar's opulent wardrobes, which
are almost characters unto themselves? LOL!

I enjoyed reading the adventures of a rather adventurous Glorfindel
and his many friends. Well done!

Title: Here We Go Round The Mulberry Bush · Author: Isabeau of
Greenlea · Genres: Romance: Other Fixed-Length Ficlet · ID: 512
Reviewer: dkpalaska · 2007-12-29 23:23:49 Score: 4
Ha! Very funny and entertaining look at one Hobbit hero's (exceedingly
personal and private) welcome back to the Shire. I love the bit about
Diamond's temper, and of course one of her greatest attractions would
be her cooking skills; and also how a ["knight of Gondor took his
chastisement like a proper hero"] - Pippin learned a lot while he was
gone. The characterization of Pippin feels true to the books, and
Diamond's is simply wonderful. I like how their previous encounter
behind a mulberry bush is repeated, with much different results.

Title: Stranger in a strange land · Author: Tanaqui · Races: Men:
General Drabble · ID: 695
Reviewer: dkpalaska · 2007-12-29 23:25:38 Score: 6
Such wonderful descriptions of the surroundings, the blistering heat,
and the unique desert events and people. I can really feel for
suffering Aragorn; there's nothing quite like suffering through
never-ending ceremonies when you already feel bad. And I think his
longing for the plain fare of the Prancing Pony ties in perfectly with
another theme the author has been expanding on: Aragorn's dislike of
fancy clothes. All those years on the road have spoiled him for the
kingship! Certainly his original journey as vagabond and this one as
visiting ruler are being similarly viewed, despite the change in
circumstances.

My favorite phrase remains: ["...added grace notes to a headache
gifted by the remorseless sun."] It is a perfect description of the
nasty throbbing that noise (especially unfamiliar and/or unappreciated
noise) will bring to an already-aching head. I still wince in sympathy
for the poor man.

Title: Great and Terrible · Author: Tanaqui · Races: Men: General
Drabble · ID: 721
Reviewer: dkpalaska · 2007-12-29 23:26:07 Score: 4
Brrr... A shiver-worthy exploration of the seductive power of the Ring
- not just in luring others to claim it, but how it slowly twists even
good intentions into evil. This is heightened by the revelation at the
end that Aragorn *still* thinks he is doing the right thing, despite
the conflicting evidence all around him. It makes me wonder: where is
Arwen in all this, and what is her perspective?

Very effective imagery, and excellent use of the pertinent RotK quote
in choosing the title.

Title: They also serve who only stand and wait · Author: Tanaqui ·
Races: Men: Gondor Drabble · ID: 724
Reviewer: dkpalaska · 2007-12-29 23:26:42 Score: 7
Tanaqui deals so well with ordinary people in her drabbles, and here
we get a look into what really is a vital (if monotonously boring)
part of Gondor's defenses. What may be hardest, in my mind, is that
these soldiers are likely posted to the beacons for fairly long
periods of time, and thus are rather separated from their fellow
soldiers and family. And yet, they know that they have an important
job to do, such that their pride can remain intact.

The descriptions really draw me into the scene, particularly with the
individual soldiers and their respective disabilities. There is just
enough given for each one that I can envision a far more detailed
background, and they become very real for me. (For example, is the
soldier from Osgiliath one of the survivors of the Nazgul attack? And
if so, they are soon going to prove their worth indeed...) The litany
of specific duties they must constantly attend to is also very
informative, without overwhelming the power of the drabble.

Title: A Life Between II · Author: Elen Kortirion · Genres: Romance:
Drabble · ID: 445
Reviewer: Marta · 2007-12-30 00:01:18 Score: 2
This drabble has an awful lot of sensual details which the author uses
to good affect to create an intense mental image of how things might
have happened. B/T fans should enjoy this.

Title: Anchor · Author: Songspinner · Genres: Drama: Elves in Later
Ages · ID: 772
Reviewer: Rhapsody · 2007-12-30 00:01:50 Score: 5
[spoilers]

Legolas and his sea longing, this combined with him restoring Ithilien
after the Ring War, it must have been difficult for him to hear those
seagulls crying. What Songspinner does here is portraying how much
this effected the elf as he struggles with his promises and duties,
feeling obviously torn between finding his own healing and what he
wishes for others. He tries to hang on with those he knows so well and
suddenly I can see why he did so. This a well-crafted story that
simply approaches Legolas from a fresh perspective! This is
beautifully written Songspinner!

Title: The Tolkienian War on Science · Author: Doc Bushwell · Genres:
Non-Fiction · ID: 444
Reviewer: Ignoble Bard · 2007-12-30 00:12:34 Score: 10
I love the way this article is written, with the passion of a
scientist and the enthusiasm of a fan. The touches of humor [Sauron.
He's not quite as horrible as his big boss, Dick Cheney, er, I mean,
Morgoth] are fun and very much to the point, and the concept that
Tolkien was anti-science is compelling and thought provokng.

Of course the article raises an important question. Was Tolkien
anti-science? This question could include many authors through the
years, not just the writings of one fantasy author who conceived his
world of Elves and Vala more than fifty years ago. The question, IMO,
goes to the heart of how science and technology is viewed by the
people who benefit from the advances produced by these arts without
always fully understanding their methods and processes.

As Arthur C. Clarke said, ["Any sufficiently advanced technology is
indistinguishable from magic."] I think Tolkien understood this, on
some level at least, when he wrote about Feanor and the Silmarils.
Keeping in mind that Tolkien's intent was ostensibly to create a
mythology as deeply rooted in the collective unconscious as that of
the Norse and Greeks, it seems to me that, while following the themes
of these myths, and adding elements of biblical stories as well
(consciously or not) he chose to exploit the love/hate relationship
with which men have always viewed technology. Fire, while useful and
necessary, is also destructive, weapons created to hunt can also be
used in war, etc.

How Tolkien felt about all this personally remains a matter for
debate. However, Tolkien wrote that being possessive of the knowledge
and craft used to create the Silmarils was a "sin" worthy of
punishment. If only the Valar had been as high minded and pure of
intent as they expected the Elves to be, Feanor might have fared much
better. But then we would have a different story altogether.

An excellent article that brought me new insights into the
Silmarilliion (which I still have not finished).

Title: City of Trees · Author: Gwynnyd · Races: Elves: With Mirkwood
Elves · ID: 641
Reviewer: White Wolf · 2007-12-30 00:16:44 Score: 2
Now that is what I call a peace offering! It clearly shows the deep
love that existed between Galadriel and Celeborn. Loved the
conversation with Thranduil.

Title: The man in the woods · Author: Dot · Races: Men: Eriador or
Rivendell · ID: 13
Reviewer: Linda hoyland · 2007-12-30 00:26:55 Score: 3
This is a very moving story with a vividly depicted and delightful
young heroine. This story is quite unusual in that it shows the
hardships of Ranger life through the eyes of a child. I'm glad the
young heroine saw Aragorn's caring side. A vivid look at what life
must have been like.



Title: The Steward's New Clothes · Author: GypsieRose · Genres: Humor:
Gondor or Rohan · ID: 511
Reviewer: Linda hoyland · 2007-12-30 00:32:40 Score: 3
A hilarious tale of Denethor's battle of wits with his tailor.We learn
the Steward likes black very much ,adores Boromir and has a rather
saucy surprise for his wife. A rare treat to read such a funny story
about a character one rarely associates with humour.

Title: A Game of Chess · Author: Marta · Genres: Drama: Gondor Drabble
· ID: 605
Reviewer: Linda hoyland · 2007-12-30 00:37:37 Score: 3
A well written and thought provoking drabble in which two masters of
stragey meet, Aragorn and Denethor. Aragorn knows he must play the
fool and not show his hand too clearly. The writer conveys the
mistrust and distance between these two brilliantly.

Title: The Three Hunters · Author: Dreamflower · Genres: Adventure ·
ID: 333
Reviewer: Marigold · 2007-12-30 00:38:47 Score: 10
(Spoiler Alert)

This story is a particular favourite of mine, because although it is
from the pov's of Aragorn, Legolas and Gimli it is very much about
Merry and Pippin and to a lesser extent Sam. Through the use of
flashbacks and the thoughts of the three hoping to rescue Merry and
Pippin from the orcs Dreamflower paints a wonderful picture of the
character and mettle of the hobbits.

Aragorn's part is my favourite and I was really pleased to see the
expansion of this particular part of the book. It goes into far more
detail about just how much the hobbits endured as Glorfindel and
Aragorn led them all at such a furious and unforgiving pace to keep
ahead of the Nazgul. The details such as the hobbits being too weary
even to eat really emphasised their determination and valour and the
description of what transpired at the Ford inspired me when I first
read this story to write a bit of something of my own upon a certain
part aspect of the aftermath. I am still hoping that Dreamflower will
expand upon that part of the scene herself as I would really like to
hear more about it in her own words.

I also liked the parts from Legolas and Gimli's pov's and thought that
she captured their characters very nicely indeed.

It was lovely to see just how much all three of these members of the
Fellowship cared for Merry and Pippin and esteemed them as comrades.

Title: Seen in the Halls of Dwarrowdelf · Author: Aruthir · Races:
Dwarves · ID: 73
Reviewer: White Wolf · 2007-12-30 00:38:54 Score: 3
This gave me chills. As the story progressed, I kept saying, 'Don't do
it!'. But of course, I knew they would, and I knew what they would
find. The imagery and deep feelings of joy, of fear, of greed and of
death came through with startling clarity. This is the best story on
this subject I've read so far.

Title: It Gives a Lovely Light · Author: Oshun · Genres: Drama: Second
Age or Earlier · ID: 338
Reviewer: Doc Bushwell · 2007-12-30 00:39:35 Score: 6
Like jewels strung on a golden chained necklace (crafted by a Noldorin
smith, no doubt), oshun's vignettes sparkle. They serve as accessible
introductions to her 'verse and worthy examples of fine Silm fic
writing. The series is multifaceted: poignant, funny, bittersweet and
heart-wrenching. Even in short drabbles and ficlets, oshun's
distinctive skill with dialog and setting is present. Similarly, the
family and social dynamics are captured. To achieve this with an
economy of words is impressive.

Among the ficlets is oshun's first plunge into Silmarillion based fan
fic (An Old Familiar Song). Immensely sad and full of regret yet
infused with love, this captures the spirit of oshun's Fëanárions and
their kin in this gem of a series as well as in her other works.

Title: Sent Unto Men · Author: Alassiel · Times: Fourth Age and Beyond
· ID: 346
Reviewer: Linda hoyland · 2007-12-30 00:49:08 Score: 3
A beautiful and unique little story, very appropriate for this time of
year. I love the idea that the Star of Earendil was the Star in the
East that led the Wise Men to Bethlehem ! Very convincingly and nicely
told.

Title: Mistaken Identities · Author: Greywing · Races: Elves · ID: 201
Reviewer: Ignoble Bard · 2007-12-30 00:51:52 Score: 4
I don't know how I managed to miss this one, but I'm glad I found it.
The Elves being mistaken for Greek gods is just too good a concept.
And you have exectuted it beautifully. It really gave me a good laugh
to think of Haldir sprinting through the woods with the hunters all
mooning over him (no pun intended). You have such a great way with
stories like this. What an imagination!

Title: The Tragedye of Leaflet, Prince of Mirkwood · Author: Jael ·
Genres: Humor: Parody · ID: 243
Reviewer: Rhapsody · 2007-12-30 00:52:33 Score: 5
Oh no you just did not…. Oh my goodness, upon seeing the images first,
I braced myself for an upcoming play called Hamlet done in the
Mirkwood way. Giggles started to surface:

[FIRST ELF: Bury her, dolt! In truth, I tell thee, thou art not the
sharpest arrow in yon quiver! (falls to digging)

SECOND ELF: I know thou art, but, prithee, what am I?]

And then the [Tra-la-lally] kicks in… but oh my, Aragorn as Horatio &
Legolas as Hamlet errr Leaflet.

[(ARAGORN receiveth ye dirtye look)] Yeah you lost me there to a long
fit of giggles, so cue in a second attempt to finish this terrific
tale. Not that it helped much because soon I find myself as a
spectator giving comments as well (hands off Galion!!!) This is just
brilliantly done, now if my jaws wouldn’t hurt so much from laughing…


Title: Where There's Life, There's Hope (and in need of vittles) ·
Author: annmarwalk · Genres: Drama: Gondor Drabble · ID: 463
Reviewer: Linda hoyland · 2007-12-30 00:57:12 Score: 3
A delightful drabble with gives new insight into what helped Aragorn
cope during his long night of healing- the smell of freshly baking
bread !I can well believe that such an everyday and homely scent could
indeed inspire the soon to be King.

Title: O, Cruel Fate · Author: Greywing · Genres: Alternate Universe:
Incomplete · ID: 58
Reviewer: Ignoble Bard · 2007-12-30 01:02:49 Score: 4
This is the crown jewel of Greywing's oveure and one that never fails
to raise a laugh. Ellie navigating her way through an unfamiliar land
in an unfamilar body is funny and touching. It's a treat to see all
the usual fanfiction suspects in attendance as well, especially a well
utilized Cirdan. Neldor is a great OC creation also, always up to
something and knowing more than he lets on. Anyone who likes humor and
satire would be hard pressed to find a more entertaining and humorous
read.

Title: Passages · Author: Isabeau of Greenlea · Genres: Drama:
Incomplete · ID: 60
Reviewer: obsidianj · 2007-12-30 01:04:38 Score: 8
[spoilers]

This is the story of Brandmir, illegitimate son of Boromir, an OC in
Isabeau's stories. When Brand turns fourteen, he discovers the
relationship between his father and his foster-father Andrahar,
another of Isabeau's OCs. Brand is greatly disturbed by this
discovery, but before he can resolve this dilemma, he gets kidnapped
by slave-traders and an angst-filled action-adventure follows. Brand
survives the ordeal and handles himself well during this crisis.

The characters are richly drawn, original and canon characters alike,
and we meet all our favorite characters of Isabeau's stories. I love
the interaction between Brand and Andrahar, although it is sometimes
painful to read. I can understand them both so well.

Another of my favorite parts is Brand's dream of his father Boromir.
Since it has so little of what Brand imagined Boromir to be, it has an
authenticity that tells Brand more than anything that this was a true
vision. The final confirmation comes from the reaction of Andrahar
when he hears of this.

Agreed. This is fun for most of us, but a lot work for others! Thanks
to them and to those who reviewed my fic. Next year, I think I'll
participate in the Review Junkie part of the contest, too, even if I
didnt get all the stories reviewed that I wanted to. I was so hurt to
see that reply that said I couldnt review any more. :(

nautika

--- In MEFAwards@yahoogroups.com, "Stephanie Brucker"
<stephanie.brucker@...> wrote:

>
> Thanks to everyone who reviewed my story "Thirteenth Birthday." And,
> especially, thanks to Marta and the MEFAs gang for a wonderful
> competition. I managed to just make my reviewing goal, even though I'd
> been without a functioning at-home computer for over 3 weeks. My local
> Internet Cafe was my friend, I can tell you.
>
> The MEFA junkie challenge setting idea was a terrific incentive for
> getting people to read and review stories. Hooray for the MEFAs team
> for inventing this challenge. Let's do it again next year.
>
> - Steff
>

nau_tika wrote:

>
>
> Agreed. This is fun for most of us, but a lot work for others! Thanks
> to them and to those who reviewed my fic. Next year, I think I'll
> participate in the Review Junkie part of the contest, too, even if I
> didnt get all the stories reviewed that I wanted to. I was so hurt to
> see that reply that said I couldnt review any more. :(
>
> nautika
>

*g* It was a fun ride, wasn't it? Even as a volunteer --and they do put
in a lot of work behind the scenes-- I still was able to enjoy the
awards as a participant, too.

The Review Junkie status isn't for everyone. Some people might find it
too competitive for their tastes. And I have no problem with people not
using the Review Junkie feature if it doesn't help them. But a lot of
people find it motivating, and if you think it would help you, by all
means give it a try next year.

Marta

Title: Dissonance · Author: EdorasLass · Races: Cross-Cultural: Gondor
· ID: 450
Reviewer: Raksha the Demon · 2007-12-30 01:08:21 Score: 4
A very compelling vignette in which a woman healer finds an unusual
patient in the Houses of Healing after the Battle of the Pelennor.
This is a fine story of suppositions being challenged, and war
reducing barriers as well as building them. The nobility of the OMC is
nicely conveyed here, easily and naturally, as she fights her own very
understandable prejudices in the face of something beyond her
experience that nonetheless brings out her humanity. And the plight of
the patient is rendered in touching, credible detail.

Title: A Thankless Task · Author: EdorasLass · Genres: Drama: Youth ·
ID: 49
Reviewer: Raksha the Demon · 2007-12-30 01:11:26 Score: 4

This story is as well-written as I have come to expect from its
talented author; especially in showing young boys who are not perfect
- Faramir being something of a know-it-all and Boromir showing his
arrogance. And we see evidence, from a distance, of Denethor's
favoritism of his firstborn. EdorasLass is one of the best writers of
children in Tolkien fandom, and she puts her skill to good use here.

Title: Shadowfax, Lord of all Horses · Author: grey_wonderer · Races:
Cross-Cultural: With Pippin · ID: 597
Reviewer: Cathleen · 2007-12-30 01:12:16 Score: 3
As always is true of any story by GreyWonderer, this is another very
humorous look at Pippin, this time involving Shadowfax! Poor Pip, the
lord of all horses knows what's best for the lad even if Pippin
himself doesn't!

Title: A Noble Thing · Author: Lily Baggins · Genres: Drama: Ithilien
· ID: 596
Reviewer: Cathleen · 2007-12-30 01:18:20 Score: 4
I can only imagine how much a kindness such as a hot bath must have
meant to Frodo and Sam after all they had been through. And to be
cared for by the man who holds them captive, and then later sets them
free. Then, to wake after everything that's happened in the Houses of
Healing to find him there with them. Fate is a funny thing. Faramir is
a very special man and LilyBaggins captures him wonderfully in this
all too short story!

Title: Green Magic · Author: Gandalfs apprentice · Genres: Crossover ·
ID: 312
Reviewer: Ignoble Bard · 2007-12-30 01:29:51 Score: 3
It's nice to see a story with that much overlooked, rarely written
about Tom Bombadil. He's as spry and mysterious as ever, and as
helpful in the end. This story captures his essence beautifully and
the characters of the mother and sons are charming and well realized.
The twist at the end is chilling as well. A great little vignette for
a dark and stormy night.

Title: She Watches · Author: Larner · Races: Hobbits: Gapfiller · ID: 640
Reviewer: Cathleen · 2007-12-30 01:31:18 Score: 2
I love the way Larner portrays Sam in this little vignette. Just such
a lovely and emotional tale.

Title: I Bid You Stand · Author: storyfish · Genres: Adventure · ID: 225
Reviewer: Marigold · 2007-12-30 01:33:31 Score: 10
(Spoiler Alert)

This is a superb story, my favourite by this author. The setup to the
battle is described so wonderfully; Merry's determination, Pippin's
desire to protect his cousin and his realisation of the futility of
the attempt, the love between all of the characters, especially
between Merry and Pippin and Gandalf and Pippin (though Pippin doesn't
quite believe that affection is the wizard's true motivation),
Aragorn's insight, showing the reader just how much he has come to
know and care for these two hobbits, in part as evidenced by my
favourite lines from this section: [Pippin returned the gaze, then
looked away quickly. Something in Aragorn’s look--the pride, the
concern--for a moment, Pippin could have been in the Shire, glancing
into his father’s eyes.] and his foreboding about Merry and the
remaining Nazgul...all of this sets up the next part of the story
perfectly.

The expansion of the filmverse battle before the Black Gates is
excellent. It was thrilling seeing Merry and Pippin's initial charge
through the eyes of others [the Men of the West felt a strange
stirring in their hearts to see the charge lead by the two small
figures, hardly bigger than children. Only a few knew their fates
rested in the hands of two hobbits just like these. But it gave them
courage nonetheless to see how desperately these halflings’ hearts
were thrown into this last stand, how bravely they ran to their dooms]
and Gandalf's reaction was excellent - he must have felt so much guilt
over what all of the hobbits went through on the Quest and how it
changed them even though he knew that it was necessary.

The descriptions of the battle are very exciting and fast-paced and I
loved that Pippin got his troll and that Merry was there this time to
save him. And then the arrival of the Nazgul was chilling - Merry
echoing Frodo's creepily delivered line from the film; [“They’re
here,”]. Pippin's attempt to defend Merry from the stalking Nazgul was
superb and so was their realisation that they were going to die
together [Merry turned to look into Pippin’s face. His Took cousin
smiled sadly. Merry held his gaze, and for a moment, he saw in
Pippin’s face the same small hobbit that followed him everywhere in
the Shire, but full grown now, and wise.]

Then just when we think that all will be well we are hit with the
knowledge that such isn't the case and we are thrown back into battle.
Merry and Pippin's desperate struggle to reach the healers is
heart-wrenching and I love the image when Gimli reaches them [Not just
one pair of hobbit feet to guide him to his fallen comrades, but two,
side-by-side on the field.] - I could see that image so clearly.

Their awakening is lovely and Pippin's chatter is cheerful and a
wonderful payoff for all of the preceding angst. The setup to the
scene in which they run to greet Frodo is one that I will remember now
each time that I see the film.

A most satisfying and entertaining story!


Title: In Passing · Author: Lily · Races: Hobbits: Post-Grey Havens ·
ID: 613
Reviewer: Cathleen · 2007-12-30 01:37:02 Score: 3
The best story of this nature that I have read to date. Lily truly has
a way of capturing the sheer essence of the character and touches the
emotional center of the reader. When a story can reduce the reader to
tears, the writer knows she has achieved perfection.

Title: A Long Road, There and Back · Author: Dana · Races: Hobbits:
Gapfiller · ID: 27
Reviewer: Cathleen · 2007-12-30 01:40:20 Score: 2
A very lovely, emotional exploration of a difficult period of time.
Dana has a special perception of each character and it shines through
in every sentence!

Title: The Scars of Stone And Sky · Author: Lady Elina · Times: Late
Third Age: 3018-3022 TA: Gondor · ID: 719
Reviewer: Ignoble Bard · 2007-12-30 01:40:33 Score: 5
I've been meaning to review this story since I first read it because
it is, thematically and characterwise, the best Aragorn/Legolas story
I've ever read. One feels Aragorn's burden and the attraction between
he and Legolas makes perfect sense here. And it's not only a good
slash story but just a really good, all around, well written story
with a deep emotional core. I love this story and think it deserves
every accolade that can be heaped upon it. Anyone who thinks there is
no new ground to cover on the Aragorn and Legolas relationship front
needs to read this one.

Title: Shadowfax, Lord of all Horses · Author: grey_wonderer · Races:
Cross-Cultural: With Pippin · ID: 597
Reviewer: Marta · 2007-12-30 01:43:25 Score: 2
This was clever and cute! I chuckled out loud at the image of Pippin
being carried by the seat of his pants, and as always the author's
comedic timing was spot-on. Very enjoyable.

Title: Elements: Dreams of the Dead, Visions of the Living · Author:
pipkinsweetgrass · Genres: Alternate Universe: The Shire or Buckland ·
ID: 202
Reviewer: Cathleen · 2007-12-30 01:46:11 Score: 4
This story is one of my absolute favorites by this wonderfully
perceptive author. Pipkin has just an incredible way with words and
with drawing out the deeper meaning within any story she is telling. I
particularly loved the faerie element and felt that it was so very
well done. It was extremely easy to visualize Pippin's actions
throughout this wonderful tale! More!

Title: The Fire of Their Hearts Was Young · Author: Oshun · Times:
First Age and Prior: House of Fingolfin · ID: 672
Reviewer: Ignoble Bard · 2007-12-30 02:12:04 Score: 5
As in love as I am with Maitimo and Findekano, Oshun managed to draw
me into to Finrod's sphere with this story about he and Findekano
finding a moment of comfort in each other's arms on the Helcaraxe.
Although Findekano's bond with Maitimo can never be broken, there is
room for comradeship and consolation from the delightfully mischievous
Finrod. Oshun writes all her characters with such personality, it's
impossible for the reader not find themselves thinking about them with
a smile days later. I look forward to each new chapter in the lives of
her engaging Elves.

Title: The Unbearable Smugness of Being Feanor · Author: Ignoble Bard
· Genres: Humor · ID: 164
Reviewer: Oshun · 2007-12-30 02:17:43 Score: 9
When I first read this story, I literally squealed aloud. I don't know
even how to begin to describe just how silly and how right this story
really is. It is wonderful story written in a smart and highly
ridiculously way. This reader is one who adores Fëanor and think he
got the rawest deal in all of Tolkien's mythology, but even with those
high standards, I must admit that the author captures a certain voice
and quality of his with absolute perfection. No thees or thous or
profundities are needed. The author has complained to me before that
he has trouble writing dialogue. Well, clearly he does not. He is
obviously must have been talking about having trouble finding just
that perfect voice. Fëanor and Morgoth herein are quite believable. I
have already told him that I do appreciate and entertain a happy sense
of true smugness myself over the fact that Fëanor is far, far more
eloquent and has the far superior vocabulary. (But then we all knew
that he was a whole lot smarter than Melkor I hope, which just goes to
prove that everything Fëanor thought about his relationship to Valar
can be substantiated in this exchange.)



Title: The Odd Couple · Author: Gandalfs apprentice · Genres: Romance:
Other Fixed-Length Ficlet · ID: 270
Reviewer: Doc Bushwell · 2007-12-30 02:35:08 Score: 6
For me, [The Odd Couple] is similar to a favorite comedy on a DVD that
I pull out to watch when I need a good laugh. Every time I've read
this, I snicker, chortle and guffaw (depending on the chapter).

Gandalf's apprentice's take on the Legolas-Gimli - or more accurately,
Legolas/Gimli - relationship is hilarious. It's a witty send-up of the
prickly canonical relationship of famous Elf and Dwarf as well as the
more turgid styles of slash.

Each ficlet starts with the set-up and *zing* - there's the line that
gets the laughs. In the best comedic tradition since Jack Lemon and
Walter Matthau originated the roles, Gimli and Legolas take it a step
further in this cross-cultural romantic comedy: [The Odd Couple] meets
"Guess Who's Coming to Mirkwood, er, Dinner." I'm hoping that
gandalf's apprentice retains creative control when she sells the film
rights.

Title: None may live now as they have lived · Author: Tanaqui · Times:
Late Third Age: 3018-3022 TA: Other Fixed-Length Ficlet · ID: 687
Reviewer: White Wolf · 2007-12-30 02:36:31 Score: 2
It's stories like this that show just how right Arwen was for Aragorn.
He's distracted with last minute details, and she's offering him
encouragement and undying faith in him.

Title: Shadows of a Nameless Fear · Author: Budgielover · Genres:
Adventure: Minas Tirith · ID: 766
Reviewer: Marigold · 2007-12-30 02:51:35 Score: 10
[Spoiler Alert]

This is just about my favourite story by Budgielover! Even for an
author so well-known for her cliffhangers she outdoes herself in this
one, each chapter leaving you breathless for the next.

My favourite thing about this story is how it gives Pippin a chance to
absolutely shine! His bravery in this as he attempts to protect Frodo
is just superb. He risks everything for his cousin only to go on to
face torture and certain death as his most feared nightmare comes to
pass and he is once again taken captive by orcs. He is not written as
unbelievably heroic; he is afraid certainly, but the way that he takes
action despite his fear is is written in a very hobbity way.

Merry too has his moments of glory and the relationship between these
two cousins and Frodo and Sam and the rest are marvellously described
through dialogue. actions and emotions. The love and devotion of each
character for the others is unmistakable and clear to see.

I was really pleased to see some of my favourite Budgie OC's appear in
this story - Peter, Marly, Rich and Brion have made it to Minas Tirith
and at last are truly rewarded for their actions as described in a
previous story by this author.

The story abounds with hurt/comfort, another forte of the author and
the healing techniques were obviously very carefully researched.

The lighthearted bits with Pippin and Arwen and Merry and Eowyn are
the perfect relief to all of the angst that has gone before and the
story has a very satisfying conclusion.

Now, I'd really love to see the scene where Frodo finds out in great
detail exactly what Pippin did and faced to save him! Hint hint!



Title: The Essence of Fire · Author: Rhapsody · Genres: Drama: General
Drabble · ID: 278
Reviewer: Doc Bushwell · 2007-12-30 02:55:29 Score: 5
This is a powerful piece in an economy of words. Rhapsody strikes a
rhythm with her prose as Curufin's litany invokes the creative and
destructive force of fire and how it burns into the events of his life.

I find Tolkien's technologists to be fascinating characters. JRRT
frequently paints them as morally compromised. Curufin was certainly
portrayed canonically in this manner. So I find Rhapsody's drabble to
be tremendously refreshing since she portrays Curufin as a morally
complex and multidimensional individual: skilled craftsman, passionate
lover, and fiercely loyal son rather than just the guy who fomented
unrest in Nargothrond and tried to off Beren.

Title: An Apple for Your Thoughts? · Author: Demus · Races:
Cross-Cultural: The Fellowship · ID: 716
Reviewer: pipkinsweetgrass · 2007-12-30 02:56:09 Score: 10
This story was well worth the read for several reasons. One usually
doesn't find many Frodo and Boromir fiction that isn't full of angst,
or without painting Frodo as the eternal victim or Boromir as outright
evil. This is such a refreshing story and wonderfully
Fellowship-driven. I do have some constructive criticism, but the
flaws do not stop me from enjoying the story. I would gently point out
that terms such as *upside the back of his head* are jarring and
breaks the verisimilitude of the story. I am not too sure it is even
grammatically correct. Also, while Merry and Pippin's antics are
amusing at times I found some of the scenario a bit of a strain. I
would respectfully point out that nowhere in book or movie canon do
the cousins behave like very young children. I would underline this
constructive criticism by pointing out all the wonderful things about
this fiction. And truly, the good outweighs these very minor flaws
with ease. For instance, I found Boromir to be very canon compliant,
and enjoyed his conversation with Frodo completely. I liked the
cultural exchange between these two and particularly loved Boromir's
reaction to Frodo pointing out that Merry and Pippin would someday be
the heads of their respective clans. I would end this review with the
sincere wish that more Frodo and Boromir fiction be written in this vein.

Title: Not an Ordinary Day · Author: nau_tika · Genres: Drama: The
Fellowship · ID: 737
Reviewer: pipkinsweetgrass · 2007-12-30 02:58:19 Score: 7
This story may be sad, even poignant---yet still somehow it managed to
remain somehow humorous. This one makes a few points without taking
itself too seriously. I think it's the humor which made the whole
thing hold together for me. Actually, that's some trick. Regardless of
the fact that I kind of saw the ending--no pun intended--the story
lost nothing in the way of the charm of the tale. I particularly liked
the point of view, that of Legolas. This particular point of view
calls for a writing voice which is slightly off plumb when compared to
the stream of consciousness of a man, a hobbit or a dwarf. I also
liked the author's characterization of Pippin. The dialog is sound and
pretty much canon compliant. Of course Boromir's kindness touched my
heart and underscored the characterization of my favorite Gondorian.
The embarrassing nature of the wound is, of course, what drives this
story. Even so, the fact that I guessed the location of the wound, I
still felt satisfied at the conclusion.

Title: Three Arrows · Author: HikoMokushi · Genres: Drama: With Merry
· ID: 717
Reviewer: pipkinsweetgrass · 2007-12-30 02:59:25 Score: 7
This is an amazing little jewel of a story, so good if so short, told
from Merry's point of view. This story was well worth the read for me.
In all honesty I'm very biased when it comes to Boromir, Merry and
Pippin. They are, for me, a compelling trio and really do bounce off
each other. This, for me, has everything in the world to do with
Boromir learning to have dealings with a people which he had thought
were merely mythical creatures, something from a child's bedtime
story. I do have issues with some of the more modern turns of phrase,
sentence structure, punctuation and voice, but the emotional content
more than makes up for it. I also found the story refreshing since it
is told from the point of view of Merry. Stories of this sort usually
are told from the point of view of Pippin, so I did really like that
Merry took up the tale this time. All in all, even with the minor
issues written about above, I found this story to be touching and
enjoyable.

Title: Dangerous Place · Author: Ushmushmeifa · Genres: Drama: Minas
Tirith · ID: 590
Reviewer: pipkinsweetgrass · 2007-12-30 03:13:16 Score: 10
There are stories which delight. There are stories which make the
blood pound in the ears with excitement. And then there are stories
like this one. A Dangerous Place it is called, and this story takes
the reader to that most perilous of terrain: the human heart. This is
a story that will break your heart. I found the emotional content so
honest, so true, that this story has simply refused to leave my stream
of consciousness for very long, much like Pearl Took's Alone, Yourself
and Nameless. I can almost feel the thin and too-light body of the
little girl asd if I carried her as Boromir did. I could almost smell
the battleground, the wrecked hovels wherein many bodies lay unknown
and unmourned. The author has written Boromir's stream of
consciousness so well and with so little artifice that the tale
transcends. This story is filled with tragic beauty without coming off
as heavy-handed or commonplace. It is difficult to write a story like
this without the tale suffering from cliché or all but oozing with
angst. But this author has turned out the tale quite beautifully with
one foot grounded firmly in reality: war truly is hell. And I
particularly loved the brief encounter between the brothers Húrin.
This is a story which could take place here and now. It is also a good
gapfiller, and could well explain much of Boromir's actions. Like the
best of gapfillers, it could have been part of the source work very
easily. This tale is carved into the very lumber of my soul.

Title: No Pain, No Gain · Author: annmarwalk · Genres: Humor: Other
Fixed-Length Ficlet · ID: 435
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2007-12-30 03:40:31 Score: 3
Oh, I had to grin at this! I loved them both, and the author rose
beautifully to the challenge of two very different stories using the
exact same dialogue. I have to admit though, I liked the first one
best--hobbits, you know!

Title: Stopping by Woods · Author: Branwyn · Genres: Drama: Vignette ·
ID: 19
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2007-12-30 03:40:50 Score: 2
We seldom see an aged Faramir. It's so touching that he thinks of his
long-gone brother's journey as one he himself will be taking.

Title: Keeper of the Jewels · Author: Cuthalion · Genres: Adventure:
Minas Tirith · ID: 64
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2007-12-30 03:41:08 Score: 7
This is a story of intrigue, danger and adventure.

[spoilers]

A case of mistaken identity puts Sam's life in danger while the
Fellowship still lingers in Minas Tirith after the War. It seems not
everyone was pleased at the return of the King, and someone wants
leverage and revenge on the new ruler of Gondor.

There are many reasons to like this story. It's a page turner (or
would be if it were a book) holding the interest with a strong plot
and solid characterizations. It also has a wonderful and beautifully
drawn three dimensional OFC. It has a despicable, but three
dimensional villain.

And it has brave, determined and strong hobbits--all of them, Frodo,
Merry and Pippin get a chance to shine in the rescue attempts, and Sam
is very, very brave in his captivity! Add to this a noble and
compassionate Aragorn and Faramir, and we have a slam-dunk!

For anyone who likes cliff-hangers and hobbits-in-danger, I can't
reccommend this enough!

Title: A Dragon in Buckland · Author: Pearl Took · Genres: Mystery ·
ID: 206
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2007-12-30 03:41:24 Score: 3
Young Pippin has a secret, and Merry is out to find out what it is!
And what a wonderful secret it is. I love this exploration of Pippin
developing his compassion for others in such a creative way.

Title: If You Should Die Before I Wake · Author: PipMer · Genres:
Drama: With Merry · ID: 277
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2007-12-30 03:41:41 Score: 3
A very sweet and touching Cormallen fic! I think most of all, I love
the title--it captures the angst and uncertainty of those horrible
days so perfectly!

PipMer has a handle on the emotions of Merry and Pippin, and this
story really showcases her understanding of the deep love between the
cousins. It remains one of my favorites of hers.


Title: Not Fade Away · Author: Jael · Genres: Drama: Elves in Later
Ages · ID: 127
Reviewer: Doc Bushwell · 2007-12-30 03:41:48 Score: 10
In contrast to what seems to be a prevailing sentiment among fan fic
readers, I relish creative AU takes on Tolkien. Furthermore, I often
find myself gravitating to stories set in a contemporary milieu since
these offer a platform for commentary on the modern world as viewed
through a Tolkienian prism. Jael's [Not Fade Away] is among the best
of the best in achieving this.

Jael's writing style is immensely appealing - lively, evocative, great
dialog. The pace of the story is superb. When I started reading this,
it rapidly morphed into the electronic equivalent of a novel I could
not put down. Jael crafted Mariposa as a character I genuinely cared
about - which is saying something given my cynicism. I enjoyed
deciphering the clues that Jael offered as to the identity of the
canonical Elves. The overarching plot - an interwoven romance, comedy
and drama - kept me engrossed. With regard to "the bad guys," in the
context of our modern world, it was all too believable. The original
characters - from minor bit parts (Sid and Morrie - and Morrie's wife,
Tovah - very poignant) to larger roles (Mariposa - obviously, Felice)
- are richly drawn.

[Not Fade Away] is also deliciously subversive in the greater context
of Tolkienian fan fic. Jael takes a wildly AU setting and demonstrates
how well informed she is by canon but that she is not enslaved by it.
This allows her to instill true creativity in her work. It's not just
another tired old chestnut of a...well, I'd better stop now lest I
offend others. I'll simply say [Not Fade Away] is a vividly refreshing
and creative story. I mean, how many authors comment on the nature
Aman via a highly germane quote from Mark Twain?

As an aside, Jael's portrayals of Thranduil, Galion and Legolas
throughout the Ages (including way back when) are excellent, and I'm a
fan of her 'verse/canon. I'm hoping to see some of her more recent
offerings nominated for the 2008 awards, in particular "King Stag."
(Check out HASA!)

Title: Taters and Thyme · Author: Cuthalion · Genres: Romance · ID: 499
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2007-12-30 03:41:57 Score: 3
Another appearance by Cuthallion's OFC Lily, the midwife--she would,
of course have been a frequent visitor to Bag End! Sam's a bit nervous
this time around, so she sends him off to the kitchen to cook! And a
recipe fic!! My joy is complete! I adore recipe fics!

Title: The Oarsman · Author: Tanaqui · Times: Late Third Age:
3018-3022 TA: Other Fixed-Length Ficlet · ID: 357
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2007-12-30 03:42:13 Score: 2
A powerful pair of drabbles--how would the slaves at the oars feel on
being freed from their piratical masters? This seems very right.

Title: Could Will Have Its Way · Author: Nancy Brooke · Races: Men:
Gondor Drabble · ID: 286
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2007-12-30 03:42:30 Score: 1
Oh my! I had never thought of Denethor looking to see *that*! Wow.

Title: To Represent the Elves · Author: Nieriel Raina · Genres: Humor
· ID: 810
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2007-12-30 03:42:55 Score: 3
There is something *very* appealing about interactions between Legolas
and Pippin during the Quest, and this one is delightful. I love
Pippin's stunned reaction when he figures out Legolas' age, LOL!

Title: Warriors' Scars · Author: Marta · Times: Early Third Age:
1-2850 TA · ID: 648
Reviewer: White Wolf · 2007-12-30 03:49:49 Score: 2
Revenge, in the end, usually does more harm than good to those seeking
it. Glorfindel, wise elf that he is, understands that. Good piece.

Title: No Harm Will Come of It · Author: Marigold · Times: Mid Third
Age: 2851 - 3017 TA: Other Fixed-Length Ficlet · ID: 456
Reviewer: Marta · 2007-12-30 04:09:25 Score: 5
[mild spoilers]
This is some really nice character work, Marigold. I loved the growth
of Hamfast through the various drabbles, from a bit skeptical to
cautiously interested to treasuring this connection with his son, all
the way through to pride at being able to read a letter on his own.
And you still captured a lot of his gruffness, keeping it from getting
sappy. And what's more, each drabble was a nice gapfiller into the
Gaffer's life, each seemed believable, and each functioned well on the
technical aspects that make drabbles so much fun and so challenging to
write. A job well done - you entertained me with this one.

Title: The Unbearable Smugness of Being Feanor · Author: Ignoble Bard
· Genres: Humor · ID: 164
Reviewer: Doc Bushwell · 2007-12-30 04:13:12 Score: 8
The [Unbearable Smugness of Being Fëanor] (USoBF) belongs to the
Comedy Central of creation myths. Ignoble Bard could make a killing if
he booked the duo of Fëanor and Melkor at the Gotham Comedy Club. Just
keep them apart so that a universe-forming singularity doesn't pop
into existence in Manhattan.

Fëanor's pretentious superior loquaciousness is perfect. Melkor's
retorts and his sense of comedic timing are priceless. "I can swim."
*snort!* Not that I have been around the block all that much in
Tolkien fan fic, but more often than not, when I've read attempts of
humor applied to the larger-than-life-of-mythic-proportions dark and
scary characters of Tolkien's legendarium, they've come across as
dumbed down buffoons. Not so here. Ignoble Bard writes these towering
figures intelligently (thank you, thank you, thank you). Fëanor and
Melkor are both sharp as nails.

The last line of this piece - Eru Iluvatar contemplating the paragons
of humanity that we are - invariably sends me into paroxysms. The
USoBF is a hilarious addition to Ignoble Bard's JRRT-flavored comedic
compendium.

Title: A Boy and His Lob · Author: Ignoble Bard · Genres: Humor · ID: 162
Reviewer: Oshun · 2007-12-30 04:23:10 Score: 9
All of IgnobleBard's stories are great and his use of language in his
serious ones, is measured and elegant, but there is something about
his comedies that really seems to cause him to let loose and soar.
This one is no exception. Legolas is charming, snarky, adolescent and
devious. Haldir has--whoops, I cannot specific, for that would blow
the greatest line in the story. I will leave it as this. He is rather
attractve and appreciated by Legolas. The pet spider is a horror
(speaking as a mom; it really set my teeth on edge and scared the
daylights out of me). It is just so big. But what is not to love about
a spider that can write and spell and execute his work in tengwar. The
doilies are wonderfully hilarious and I know of what I speak, I grew
up in a working-class Irish family and in my childhood doilies graced
every available surface. (As I recall they dominated the decor of our
house, but did not make ["it pop."])

Anyway, this is a very funny story and one of the better take-offs on
a children's book that I have read in this fandom. I have a requested
a sequel, but I doubt I'll get my wish. Stories like this one tend to
be one of a kind.

Title: Fire and Ice · Author: NeumeIndil · Times: Late Third Age:
3018-3022 TA · ID: 318
Reviewer: Inkling · 2007-12-30 04:55:10 Score: 8
One of my favorite things about the MEFAs is that it leads me to
corners of the fandom I wouldn't otherwise discover...for example, the
Dragon's Hoard, a tavern/brothel in Edoras populated by a rich cast of
OCs, several minor canon characters and cameo appearances by some
major ones as well. Set in the tension-filled period of Grima's
ascendancy to power, "Fire and Ice" combines romance, human drama and
court intrigue in an engrossing and well-crafted tale.

What makes "Fire and Ice" memorable are the utterly believable, fully
realized characterizations and complex, nuanced relationships, in
particular the compassionate and strong-willed Morwen, who struggles
to accept the possibility of happiness with Gamling, and the
well-drawn friendship between Gamling and Háma.

There are many fine smaller details, such as the incessant tapping of
a trapped bumblebee that underscores a scene's mood, and a wonderfully
vivid pursuit of a wind-blown letter that [started up again like a
frightened grouse as she approached].

While part of a larger series, this story also works well on its own.
An impressive and ambitious saga!


Title: The Tolkienian War on Science · Author: Doc Bushwell · Genres:
Non-Fiction · ID: 444
Reviewer: Dawn Felagund · 2007-12-30 04:55:49 Score: 10
Doc Bushwell made her first appearance this past year as a Tolkien
writer--writing both fiction and non-fiction--and "The Tolkienian War
on Science" is a wonderful example of why she has quickly become one
of my favorite authors. With an impressive knowledge of canon and a
lively style that keeps me reading--and laughing--till the last word,
"Tolkienian" is both hard-hitting and engaging and is well deserving
of the nomination it has received here.

But what truly sets Doc Bushwell's writing apart from many other
canon-savvy writers with a gift for their craft is the knack she has
for taking the same facts that the rest of us study and use and
turning them on their heads to generate conclusions and a version of
Middle-earth quite unlike any I have ever seen. While "Tolkienian" is
non-fiction, it serves as a basis, almost a mission statement, for her
work that follows. She jumps with both feet into one of the most
popular debates among those who study and write about the First Age:
were the Valar justified in their treatment of Feanor? Did they have
the right to demand access to the Silmarils, or did Feanor have the
right to refuse? Who is truly morally and ethically just in his
demands of the other?

Looking at Feanor--and the Noldor as a whole--as a
scientist/technologist used and abused by the society in which he
lived, Doc Bushwell makes a strong argument in his favor. Drawing
modern comparisons to the treatment of scientists and technologists by
the "morality"-obsessed and fundamentalism-fueled politics in the
modern U.S., she connects these attitudes with the treatment of Feanor
and the Noldor in _The Silmarillion_ and, furthermore, Tolkien's own
attitudes towards practitioners of science and technology. She asks
readers--many of whom may never have questioned the superiority of
Tolkien's idyllic, pastoral vision devoid of "technology"--whether
this is truly the proper path to take. Is this the world that we want?
She adroitly gives voice to the arguments one can easily imagine
Feanor making and shows a side of the debate oft-neglected both by
Tolkien's "histories" and the writers who study them.

"Tolkienian" is guaranteed to be controversial, and many readers, I
know, have walked away without being fully convinced. But regardless
of the conclusions one comes to embrace, it certainly deserves credit
for taking on a difficult question (and an unpopular view) in a
skillful, well-informed, and very entertaining manner. And to all who
find themselves nodding furiously as they read, Doc Bushwell's
fiction--based largely on the same ideas--comes with heartiest
recommendation.

Title: Drawing Straight With Crooked Lines · Author: Fiondil · Genres:
Drama · ID: 76
Reviewer: Radbooks · 2007-12-30 04:57:21 Score: 6
This was the first story of Fiondil's that I read and it got my hooked
on his stories. I especially enjoy the way he writes the Valar. This
particular story I enjoyed because it really rang true for me... that
Boromir's actions at Amon Hen had been necessary. If he hadn't
attacked Frodo, then the consequences would have been horrible for the
Fellowship. The interaction between Namo and Boromir here was moving
as the Vala helps him see what could have happened - Namo doesn't
excuse what he did - but he helps Boromie see that sometimes our
actions have results that we don't always see and sometimes those work
out far better than we could ever have imagined. This story was very,
very well written and something I often go back and read.

Title: The Stranger · Author: mistycracraft · Races: Men: Eriador or
Rivendell · ID: 89
Reviewer: Radbooks · 2007-12-30 05:03:33 Score: 5
This is one of my favorite stories that Misty has written. I love the
original character, Edric, and the very real fear that he feels toward
a scruffy Ranger. It is such a natural reaction that most of the
people of Middle-earth feel towards the Rangers and Misty caught the
young man's internal struggles very well. And then Aragorn was kind to
him and smiled a little and all of Edric's prejudices were challenged
and he looked at the Ranger in a new light. It just seemed so real to
me - how a simple thing can change your perceptions. The story is very
well done.

Title: The Return · Author: mistycracraft · Races: Men: Eriador or
Rivendell · ID: 90
Reviewer: Radbooks · 2007-12-30 05:06:52 Score: 4
This is the sequel to 'The Stranger' and I enjoyed it as well. Edric
is now a middle aged man and the man he knew as Strider has returned
as king, though he is unaware of who he is and they spend a pleasant
evening together just talking about their lives. I enjoy stories that
give Aragorn a chance to just be a man and not 'the king'. The story
is well written, as are all of Misty's stories.

Title: Conversion · Author: Pentangle · Genres: Drama: With Aragorn ·
ID: 169
Reviewer: Radbooks · 2007-12-30 05:19:54 Score: 6
Original characters are often difficult to write, but Pentangle does a
very good job here. You can feel the anguish and the pain that Talion
is going through at the end of the War of the Ring when his son has
been killed by his own men - the men of Gondor. His village is in
ruins and so many men are missing and now the king is coming. The
bitterness pours out of Talion and onto Aragorn and Talion knows he'll
be killed or imprisoned but he doesn't care. But, Aragorn is the king
of the books and can take someone speaking back to him and helps the
man in his pain. In fact, calls on him to help stabilize the village.

It is so very done. I have not read all of Pentangle's stories - not
yet!, but those that I have I've thoroughly enjoyed. She's a skilled
writer who knows how to tell a story. Thanks for sharing this!

Title: The Company of Heroes · Author: annmarwalk · Races: Hobbits:
Children · ID: 393
Reviewer: White Wolf · 2007-12-30 05:24:51 Score: 2
Interesting observations by Sam about why he never talked about
Boromir to his family. It was nice to see him come to an understanding
about it.

Title: The Third Eagle · Author: Imhiriel · Times: Late Third Age:
3018-3022 TA: General Drabble · ID: 630
Reviewer: Marta · 2007-12-30 05:31:27 Score: 5
[spoilers]
This is a really thought-provoking drabble. I had always assumed that
both Gandalf and a hobbit would be too much weight for an eagle, so
the third eagle was intended to carry Gandalf, but after I read this
drabble, I looked it up and realized that I was wrong. I've read this
drabble several times, and each time I was left pondering: did Gandalf
really think Gollum had survived, or was it just to keep up
appearances (so others wouldn't think he had thought Gollum would
die), or what exactly? Whatever the answer, it's a thoroughly original
question, and I love the way this drabble poses it.

Title: Vocabulary Lessons · Author: Larner · Times: Late Third Age:
3018-3022 TA: Gondor · ID: 521
Reviewer: Radbooks · 2007-12-30 05:32:53 Score: 4
A short one shot [though a subsequent, longer story has since been
written] about a young lord who needs to learn that things are not
always as they appear and that he has much to learn about honor and
service and his treatment of other people.

I really enjoy the way Larner writes and this was a story that really
stuck out for me because it applies in so many situations in 'real
life'. So many people are overlooked because of what they look like or
how they dress, etc., and yet sometimes they deserve the most honor.
That was captured beautifully here.

Thanks for sharing this, Larner!

Title: Thyme is a great healer · Author: Tanaqui · Times: Fourth Age
and Beyond: Drabble · ID: 723
Reviewer: Marta · 2007-12-30 05:34:31 Score: 3
Great drabble - I particularly liked the parallel of traditions
between Gondor and the Shire, different befitting each of the
different cultures, but yet not completely dissimilar. And this was a
nice moment of connection between Faramir and Sam. Peace suits both of
them, and I was glad that they were sympathetic to each others' situation.

Title: Reconcilation · Author: Dwimordene · Genres: Drama · ID: 86
Reviewer: Radbooks · 2007-12-30 05:53:16 Score: 7
[SPOILERS]

This is an amazing story to me. I do not know how Dwim. is able to
take Isabeau's characters and make them her own like she does, but she
does it very, very well here. I, too had wondered how Andrahar and
Peloren had become friends and I was so glad that someone wrote that
story for us.

The backdrop of a military school setting and young men trying to find
their way is, in and of itself, a fascinating story, and then adding a
racial issue with all of the undertones with Pel and Elethil and what
they'd done made it a complex story and it was done wonderfully well.
It couldn't have been easy. There was a lot of tension in the story...
not too much, just the perfect amount. I was sure that Elethil was
going to kill himself, the story seemed to be leading up to that and I
was so relieved when he didn't.

I liked the other original characters in the story, especially Aldan,
though the other characters were well written - I just didn't like
them. But, I don't think I was supposed to.

A very enjoyable story and I thank you for writing it for us!

Title: A Boy and His Lob · Author: Ignoble Bard · Genres: Humor · ID: 162
Reviewer: Gandalfs apprentice · 2007-12-30 06:03:56 Score: 3
I started choking, I was laughing so hard. Somehow this piece is even
funnier than the first time I read it. The ultimate statement on
doilies and interior decorating! I will never be able to read about
Legolas in Haldir's flet without seeing that doily in my mind's eye.

Woo hoo!

Title: A Mother's Wish · Author: Rhapsody · Genres: Drama: General
Drabble · ID: 429
Reviewer: Linda hoyland · 2007-12-30 06:07:38 Score: 3
I loved this idea of a connection between Maglor and his mother that
bridges the Sundering Seas. Poor Nerdanel, I feel for her the most in
the tragic sago of the simarils.As in real life, the women suffer
while the men fight.

Title: Perturbation of Fate · Author: Rhapsody · Genres: Drama:
General Drabble · ID: 428
Reviewer: Linda hoyland · 2007-12-30 06:11:25 Score: 2
A sad and haunting drabble about how Maglor feels he cannot heed the
call of the sea but remain forever bound to his terrible oath.

Title: The End of Dark Days · Author: annmarwalk/EdorasLass CoAuthors
· Genres: Drama: Minas Tirith · ID: 56
Reviewer: Linda hoyland · 2007-12-30 06:17:07 Score: 3
This vivid and moving story deals with what Tolkien chose not to tell
us,but many readers wonder about,how did Faramir deal with the fact
his father tried to kill him? I especially liked the description of
Faramir's healing and Denethor's madness

Title: No Pain, No Gain · Author: annmarwalk · Genres: Humor: Other
Fixed-Length Ficlet · ID: 435
Reviewer: Linda hoyland · 2007-12-30 06:21:43 Score: 3
I loved these amusing drabbles in a challenge to use the same dialogue
in both. Trust a male to make as much fuss over a tattoo as a woman
over childbirth! Arwen's stoism does her great credit.

Title: Green · Author: annmarwalk · Times: Late Third Age: 3018-3022
TA: Gondor Drabble · ID: 461
Reviewer: Linda hoyland · 2007-12-30 06:37:18 Score: 3
A stunningly beautiful drabble about very favourite moment in LOTR
when Aragorn heals Faramir.I love the way the writer descibes the
different sensations Faramir experiences as stumbles through his dark
dreams then he hears Aragorn's voice and smells the aethelas. Faramir
has indeed found hope after a very long wait

Title: Where There's Life, There's Hope (and in need of vittles) ·
Author: annmarwalk · Genres: Drama: Gondor Drabble · ID: 463
Reviewer: Marta · 2007-12-30 06:42:21 Score: 4
Oh, this is simply lovely. It's exactly the sort of detail that would
never have made it in to "Lord of the Rings," but I can see it so
easily taking place. I hope Aragorn was encouraged by the smell of
baking bread -- I know how encouraging that smell can be when I'm
having a bad day. It's so nice to think of Mag's contribution to the
war effort, as it shows just how easily the small things can make a
big difference. *grins* Nicely told, Ann, I thoroughly enjoyed this
touching drabble.

Title: Passages · Author: Isabeau of Greenlea · Genres: Drama:
Incomplete · ID: 60
Reviewer: Elena Tiriel · 2007-12-30 06:56:12 Score: 10
(Possible spoilers within:)

An fascinating story about Brandmir, the lowly and illegitimate son of
Boromir and a former prostitute. After he is discovered by Andrahar,
the Haradric friend of Imrahil of Dol Amroth, he is given a home and
adopted as heir by Andrahar. He is educated and, much to his surprise,
at fourteen he becomes a newly-minted lord of Gondor, with lands of
his own.

He learns a secret about Andrahar that strains their relationship, but
is inconveniently kidnapped by Corsair slavers off the docks of Dol
Amroth; however, he ingeniously manages to stave off danger for
himself and his child charges on board the slaver ship long enough to
be rescued.

After the rescue, he must decide how to reconcile with his beloved
guardian, and being just a lad, he does not know how to do that.
Misunderstandings abound, but I am hopeful that they can be resolved
before Andrahar, Imrahil, and Aragorn depart for Rhovanion for a year
to fight Easterlings.

This story has an intricate, fascinating plot, complete with realistic
stresses between the characters... and the characters themselves, both
canon and OC, are well-drawn and realistic. I look forward with great
anticipation to each new chapter of this story. It is an absolute joy
to read!

Title: With No Pity · Author: Elen Kortirion · Races: Villains:
Drabble · ID: 391
Reviewer: White Wolf · 2007-12-30 07:18:55 Score: 2
This is the perfect example of being led to believe one thing is true
when it turns out to be something completely different. I guess it
just depends on your POV. Loved the twist.

Title: The Tenant from Staddle · Author: Larner · Races:
Cross-Cultural: Incomplete · ID: 408
Reviewer: Radbooks · 2007-12-30 07:25:09 Score: 5
[SPOILERS]

I've really enjoyed this work-in-progress that is mostly original
characters. Larner does a wonderful job with detailing a family of
hobbits who were displaced during the war and are now looking to start
a new life away from Bree. But then they find out that their new home
is owned by Frodo and they have to deal with lawyers and such and it's
a bit overwhelming for such simple hobbits. I like the lawyer that
comes from Minas Tirith with his dog to learn about contracts and then
of course there is the hobbit lawyer, Bartolo, who doesn't like Frodo
but does a good job for him nonetheless.

It's a very well written, very well told story and I highly recommend
it. Thanks for sharing it!

Title: The Harper · Author: juno_magic · Times: Fourth Age and Beyond:
Gondor or Rohan · ID: 10
Reviewer: Elena Tiriel · 2007-12-30 07:37:53 Score: 8
(Possible spoilers within:)

This is a story of a simple village lad who befriends an ancient blind
minstrel one day, and a whole new world is opened for him.

The author's style is spare, suiting the austere character of the
narrator, who starts out as a poor boy in a subsistence village in the
White Mountains. But the boy's persistent questions break through the
reticence of the embittered minstrel. The boy begs him to teach him
music, and the Elf finally complies. We get a glimpse of the ancientry
of the Elf through his songs, which he finds repugnant, but the boy
finds fascinating.

I hadn't really been aware of this before, but now that I re-read the
story, it is almost like the narrator - the boy grown up into a
minstrel himself - is speaking in a manner best suited to story-telling.

I was captured by this unfolding story from beginning to end, and was
pleased that my guess about the identify of the Elf was confirmed.
That the author includes a picture of a blind minstrel, and the poem
that inspired the story is a pleasant bonus at the end. Very well done!

Title: Salt · Author: Dawn Felagund · Times: First Age and Prior · ID: 743
Reviewer: dkpalaska · 2007-12-30 07:43:41 Score: 8
Dawn has a knack for developing the odd, surprising, decidedly unusual
twists in her personal Feanorian storyverse. Yet her own logic and
vision run consistently throughout, tying it all together so that I
never disengage from the story - even when my eyebrows are raised as
high as they can go. Her incredibly engaging prose also helps with
this, artfully dropping beautiful and startling phrases and imagery at
every turn.

What strikes me most in this story about Caranthir is how his talent
for osanwe-kenta is used as a wholly reasonable explanation for his
strangeness. I felt tremendous sympathy for what should on all
accounts be an unsympathetic character, especially because there seems
to be noone available to mentor him through his struggles, and he
seems incapable of broaching the subject with his family. His
uniqueness results in almost total aloneness.

Caranthir's unhappy connection with the sea, and how the sea speaks
and responds to him, is an incredibly powerful theme; and the final
scene, where he forgoes the Silmaril for a final communion with his
brother - breathtaking.

Title: Dissonance · Author: EdorasLass · Races: Cross-Cultural: Gondor
· ID: 450
Reviewer: dkpalaska · 2007-12-30 07:44:40 Score: 7
["Dissonance"] does a very good job of capturing the antipathy between
enemies, and the shift in perspective that can happen when we are
brought face-to-face with our foe's humanity - most effectively in the
face of helplessness. The title perfectly captures what the story goes
on to elaborate: the lack of harmony between these strains in the
Great Music, artificially imposed by Sauron and Man's own failings.

Excellent characterizations, with the point of the story brought home
quietly but clearly. With the dangerous nature of the Southron mostly
neutralized, the female aide is allowed the time to actually look at
him and observe the similarities between him and any wounded man. She
doesn't come away with true understanding of why he was there to fight
Gondor, or of his unique culture (I loved his sung eulogy!), but she
does seem to get a glimpse of the deeper truth: ["There is only one
man in all the world and his name is All Men" (Carl Sandburg)].

Thank you for this timely and well-written reminder, Edoraslass!

Title: Life Lessons · Author: Marta · Races: Men: Gondor · ID: 582
Reviewer: dkpalaska · 2007-12-30 07:45:27 Score: 5
A lovely exchange between two of the most powerful women in Gondor. I
love the peek we get into Elven culture, particularly the waybread
with the women's dominion over its preparation. I also like that
Galadriel, powerful and mighty, took the time among her overwhelming
sea-longing to take the place of departed Celebrian in preparing Arwen
for the birth of her first child.

It seems appropriate that Arwen, having chosen the Doom of Men, should
take all she learned in her long life - including lembas lore - and
share it judiciously with her new people.

Title: The Last Temptation · Author: Maeve Riannon · Genres: Drama:
Second Age or Earlier · ID: 264
Reviewer: dkpalaska · 2007-12-30 07:45:57 Score: 5
Painful and sad and a very, very creative way of looking at this
episode. Melian's actions are indeed strange, the way they are glossed
over in the Silm. I liked the author's thoughts on this, and
especially the vivid description of Melian's connection to the land,
and of her first embodiment for Thingol's sake.

Her temptation was presented realistically, with the loss of these two
little descendants the "last straw." The vision of what she would
become - a mirror of Morgoth - was painted so clearly that it was a
bit of a shock to find that it was actually a vision, and that in the
end she let Eru's plan unfold untrammelled.

Title: Respite · Author: Lindelea · Races: Men: Gondor Drabble · ID: 303
Reviewer: dkpalaska · 2007-12-30 07:46:33 Score: 6
["Respite"] does a very good job of scene-setting, and of describing
the hustle that is part of a Ranger's life. Excellent
characterization, too: Faramir as a leader of men and as the scholar,
sneaking in a few moments of escape from the war's burdens. At least,
this is Faramir in my mind, since those facets of his personality are
firmly embedded in my concept of the man, although the author leaves
it ambiguous enough that it could be any Ranger commander.

The drabble is well-structured, for bookending the brief respite with
the times of action gives the reader the same feeling of "not enough",
of the brevity of these times of enjoyment - and yet they are what
help maintain a fighter's sanity. Very good use of language to
maximize the impact in the given word count.

Title: Belonging · Author: Bodkin · Genres: Romance: Second Age or
Earlier · ID: 422
Reviewer: dkpalaska · 2007-12-30 07:49:10 Score: 10
Beautifully sensual and loving... The reader gets a very clear and
tantalizing picture of the Lord and Lady of Imladris and their
(relatively) newly-forged and still-developing bond. (Twenty years and
still newlyweds - Elves!) Bodkin's usual excellent writing leaves me
grinning and inwardly cheering at their joyful marital bliss, and
sniffling at the end when a moment of foreshadowing briefly darkens
their glowing future. But these two do not know of it, and I rejoiced
in what must have been many, many times of great happiness before the
painful separation.

Marvelous characterizations. Elrond is wonderfully portrayed; it's
very nice to see him in all his ogle-worthy near-naked physical being
instead of the intellectual scholar. Celebrian is the real delight,
however. I love her more risque attitude; it seems to fit her partial
Sindarin heritage, which I think of as being rather down-to-earth
compared to Elrond's more formal Feanorian upbringing. She is a
forthright and intelligent woman, and an excellent match for the
mighty loremaster and warrior.

I love her thoughts about their marriage and union being a
["dedication"] to each other. And this thought of Elrond is absolutely
beautiful: ["Her love had healed something in him that he had not even
realised needed mending and she was now the steel that held him
together."]

Title: Duty and Devotion · Author: Marta · Times: Late Third Age:
3018-3022 TA: Other Fixed-Length Ficlet · ID: 411
Reviewer: dkpalaska · 2007-12-30 07:50:56 Score: 7
I think this is a profoundly realistic look at Beregond's thoughts
right before he springs into action. I can well believe that it took
some consideration for him to leave his honored post, and Marta does a
masterful job of laying out the reasons for his hesitation. While
everyone would like to think that we'd leap unresistingly into being
heroes, it's likely that many of even the bravest and most determined
souls have a quick spell of "Why me?"

Beregond's restless fidgeting and dulled senses are described
exceedingly well, and clearly reveal the torments of his heart. I like
that the Nazgul, normally a harbinger of overwhelming fear, here
serves as the catalyst for bringing what is important to the forefront
of Beregond's mind. I don't see his final decision so much as, "We're
all going to die - what the heck"; but: "We're all going to die - I
will do so pursuing the most good I can in the time remaining."

Perceptive, eloquent and very interesting gap-filler!

Title: Of the Silmarils · Author: Isil Elensar · Races: Elves:
Fixed-Length Ficlet · ID: 111
Reviewer: Raksha the Demon · 2007-12-30 07:51:02 Score: 4
Skillfully written set of three drabbles focussing on Feanor's
creation of those famous First Age gewgaws.

I like how the emotion that seems to rule Feanor in the making and
keeping of the Silmarils, is the pride that eventually undid him. Not
that anyone who crafted something like those three baubles shouldn't
be proud of the achievement, but Feanor goes a bit over the top, and
we all know where that will lead.


Title: None may live now as they have lived · Author: Tanaqui · Times:
Late Third Age: 3018-3022 TA: Other Fixed-Length Ficlet · ID: 687
Reviewer: dkpalaska · 2007-12-30 07:52:03 Score: 7
*sniffle* Just beautiful... Even the most centered and dedicated
individuals must have their moments of doubt and anxiety, and Aragorn
is now facing the "do or die" test, following on years and years of
wandering and often desperate battle. In the face of encroaching
darkness and his all-too-possible failure, he thinks of his people and
final responsibilities.

Leave it to wise and faithful Arwen to point out what should be
obvious: that the Dunedain of the Angle already know their roles if
Sauron overruns the known world. As they would have done if Isildur's
line died out at any point in history, they will stand and fight for
Good to the last person.

The language relays very well the state of mind of the protagonists:
Aragorn's shuffling restlessness vs. Arwen's determined calm. I love
how she refers to her "Estel", and means both her beloved *and* the
hope based on things not seen. Her steadfast faith will help carry
Aragorn through to his destiny.

Title: Gone Fishin' · Author: Aranel Took · Times: Late Third Age:
3018-3022 TA: Other Fixed-Length Ficlet · ID: 322
Reviewer: dkpalaska · 2007-12-30 07:52:25 Score: 3
I can completely see Aragorn needing to get away periodically -
perhaps not so much from Arwen, but definitely from the paperwork and
endless council meetings. You don't spend years in relative freedom on
the road and not miss certain aspects of it. I like how it we are led
along briefly without knowing who is actually featured in the drabble.

Title: Glimpses from Cormallen · Author: Marigold · Times: Late Third
Age: 3018-3022 TA: Other Fixed-Length Ficlet · ID: 614
Reviewer: dkpalaska · 2007-12-30 07:53:08 Score: 3
Oh, very nice! I think the relationship between Merry and Pippin is
vividly and sweetly conveyed, although the "guest appearances" of
Aragorn and Gandalf are also handled well. Pippin's determined
cheerfulness is so in-character, as is Merry's gentle guardianship. I
love: ["Merry resisted the urge to complete the gesture with a loud
sloppy smooch to Pippin’s forehead... But only for a moment."], and
Gandalf's bedtime story.

Title: Last Light · Author: Ignoble Bard · Genres: Drama · ID: 194
Reviewer: dkpalaska · 2007-12-30 07:53:53 Score: 5
Very chilling, despairing and insightful story. The PoV is superbly
carried out, with appropriate perceptions and metaphors.

The tree's remembrances of happier times serve to throw light on just
how bad things have become, and the slow onslaught of change. It is
particularly poignant how the beginnings of evil were noted, but
ignored; now there is no turning it, at least from what the tree knows.

The images are dismally but clearly rendered, giving us a
disheartening view of the tree's nearing demise. Excellent title, as
it captures the encroaching darkness of Saruman's reign from Orthanc,
and the fading life of the tree.

Title: Tales of Thanksgiving · Author: Dawn Felagund · Times: First
Age and Prior · ID: 184
Reviewer: dkpalaska · 2007-12-30 07:55:38 Score: 6
My goodness, each one of these is gem in its own right, and deserves
fulsome praise. They range through many characters and times, with an
equally varied mix of emotions and events. Every single PoV is
absolutely well told: clear, distinct, illuminating and often surprising.

Dawn Felagund has a lovely and personal style of writing that makes
you feel like the stories are being told by a dear friend, that you
can actually reach out and touch the remarkable individuals being
explored in these ficlets. I loved nearly all of them, although I
think ["The Wanderer"] is probably my favorite; of a collection that
captures its characters wonderfully well, this one really nails my
impression of Finrod; and I adore the way he meets his "stranger"
relatives at the end, complete with the very serious little boy greeting.

Title: Hossis · Author: Fawsley · Genres: Drama: Youth · ID: 520
Reviewer: Raksha the Demon · 2007-12-30 07:58:43 Score: 3

A marvelous, though bittersweet, treat for the reader, this vignette
starts out sweetly, with an excited toddler announcing the arrival of
the "hossis" that heralds his father's return, and ends with one of
the saddest moments in the LOTR backstory. The small boy and his young
mother are written well, as are the Elves.

Title: The Oarsman · Author: Tanaqui · Times: Late Third Age:
3018-3022 TA: Other Fixed-Length Ficlet · ID: 357
Reviewer: dkpalaska · 2007-12-30 07:59:05 Score: 8
Tanaqui takes the reader right into the experiences of these
lowest-of-the-low: captured slaves rowing the Corsair ships meant to
invade Gondor. The brutalities of their lives are detailed with a
wicked clarity and attention to detail, so that in the first drabble
we can understand why the slaves do not panic or rebel when the
Corsairs are overtaken by a soul-chilling Army of the Dead: their
souls are already numbed beyond all feeling - they only know how to
endure.

Setting up this first scenario so tellingly also gives us the reason
for the slaves' reaction in the second drabble. Aragorn could very
well have whipped them as cruelly as their former masters - or even
forced them in less evil ways - to row the ships up the Anduin, all in
the name of the greater good and with promises of freedom afterwards.
But he shows his true noble nature when he orders them freed now, and
fed, clothed and warmed, and then *asks* for their aid. Who wouldn't
row to the ends of the earth for him? Wonderful prose and a believable
gap-filler for a seldom-visited moment in the books.

Title: A Boy and His Lob · Author: Ignoble Bard · Genres: Humor · ID: 162
Reviewer: dkpalaska · 2007-12-30 07:59:43 Score: 5
Oh, my - my sides are still aching. I remember rolling on the floor
when I first read this a while back, and I think it has only improved
with "aging". The whole premise is so improbable and tongue-in-cheek,
and IgnobleBard's lovely writing carries you through with just the
right balance between ridiculous and delightful.

The comedic timing and pacing is perfect, turning out one quirky
lunacy after another. I love the oddball characterizations; while they
are decidedly NOT behaving like Tolkien's Elves, they are still
Elvish, with many hilarious plays on fanon situations and attitudes.

Title: Outmatched · Author: Tiana Luthien · Genres: Drama: Vignette ·
ID: 132
Reviewer: dkpalaska · 2007-12-30 08:02:16 Score: 8
["Outmatched"] gives some truly wonderful interaction between these
two warriors, and Eomer is the only one to speak: all of four words.
Yet Tiana Luthien's descriptive writing carries volumes and paints an
exceedingly clear picture in my mind. This is true of the physical
sparring, which is vividly and eloquently portrayed, using both
language and pacing to convey the quick movement and intensity. And it
is also true of the underlying emotion, brought out perfectly by the
tone of Eomer's actions and words at the end of the match. Only then
do we see that this has been a test of sorts, one not only appropriate
for a warrior of Faramir's prowess, but for the suitor of a
shieldmaiden as well.

I love the locked gaze - Faramir knows just what is going on, and no
way is he backing down before his would-be brother-in-law. The fact
that he disarms Eomer speaks worlds to his skills, too: Faramir may
not have fought in the Battle of the Pelennor Fields, but he has
decidedly bested one of only three men to emerge from that battle
unharmed.

Go, Steward of Gondor!

Title: The Land of Gift · Author: Maeve Riannon · Times: First Age and
Prior: House of Fingolfin · ID: 108
Reviewer: dkpalaska · 2007-12-30 08:03:28 Score: 4
A very, very, *very* different look at the creation of Numenor. Idril
and Tuor both pierce my heart in this story, for they are bitter and
angry - far from the romantic ideal that I've always cherished. And
yet, the author's point is well-taken: Why should Tuor have been the
one to break the Ban of the Valar *and* cross from mortal to
Elven-kind? I love the bit at the end, where their spirits still have
a connection to the land of their descendants.

Title: The Promise in her Eyes · Author: EdorasLass · Genres: Humor:
Gondor or Rohan · ID: 100
Reviewer: dkpalaska · 2007-12-30 08:05:17 Score: 6
A very sweet, extremely entertaining snapshot of young Eowyn through
the eyes of a ["grubby, rootless, traveling musician"]. The tone and
voice of the story are really wonderful, perfectly colloquial, and the
honest, "Hey, I didn't know!" protest of the would-be lover is
delightfully guileless. (Although, we of course know not to trust him
completely...)

All the lovely story-telling aside, my favorite part of this piece is
seeing a beautiful, young, carefree and flirtatious Eowyn, before her
uncle slipped under the Worm's control and Rohan fell under heavy
shadow. One can imagine how Faramir might have seen into her heart and
unearthed some of this much later on.

That we also get to imagine glowering, magnificent, protective Eomer
is a total bonus. *g*

Title: Love Story · Author: Gandalfs apprentice · Genres: Humor: Other
Fixed-Length Ficlet · ID: 273
Reviewer: dkpalaska · 2007-12-30 08:06:47 Score: 7
*splutter*

This was a real treat to discover, chock full of cute images and
delightful humor. Just the idea of a Hobbity rendition of the Tale of
Tinuviel is enough to start me giggling, but Gandalf's Apprentice has
once again tucked so many gentle and subtle tidbits into place that it
takes more than one reading to really appreciate it all.

The word choices are what jump out at me most of all: Beren's
face-splitting grin and chubby arms, Luthien's scampering dance and
bellowing. It paints an astonishingly clear scene of the children's
practice run, in all its charmingly altered glory. And somehow the
actions described throughout leave me in no doubt about the
characterizations, even to worldly Bilbo having the role of theater
critic.

The title is ideal: as down to earth as the Hobbits, but encapsulating
their play's plotline just fine. (It also calls to mind the American
film of the same name, which leaves me with a whole 'nother set of
thoughts on parallels...)

Title: Firelight · Author: Songspinner · Genres: Drama: Ithilien · ID: 817
Reviewer: Inkling · 2007-12-30 08:09:57 Score: 4
These evocative vignettes illuminate the close bonds of friendship and
support among the members of Fellowship as they recover at Cormallen.
Songspinner skillfully employs a unifying theme of fire in its full
range of symbolism: as a source of comfort and warmth, of summons and
inspiration, and of terror and death. Especially nice is the image of
Gimli at his forge, and Aragorn seen in a rare moment of
vulnerability. Very nicely done!

Title: To This My Love Hath Come At Last · Author: Roh_wyn · Genres:
Romance: Incomplete · ID: 699
Reviewer: Illwynd · 2007-12-30 08:30:39 Score: 10
I'm not usually one to go for Boromance stories, but this one is a
pleasure to read. The OCs are realistically drawn, the canon
characters are portrayed well and with wonderful insight, and the
relationships between the characters are particularly well-done. I
very much enjoyed the interaction between Boromir and Faramir, as it
showed the warmth, humor, and depth that I believe existed between
them, while avoiding downplaying the differences between them. It has
also been interesting watching the relationship between Boromir and
Miriel evolve. Roh_wyn makes the growing affection between them
believable by making their doubts and uncertainties clear, and keeping
most of their interaction light, while still letting the reader
glimpse what’s going on beneath the surface. I also enjoyed the
interaction between Boromir and his Dol Amroth kin.

The story is also rich with details, bringing to life a nicely
canon-compatible vision of life in Gondor. The intrigue at the
councils, the description of the market that Boromir and Miriel visit
together, and dozens of other little details make the story feel very
real. Well worth the read, and I can’t wait to see what Roh_wyn does
with the story from here!

Title: Vocabulary Lessons · Author: Larner · Times: Late Third Age:
3018-3022 TA: Gondor · ID: 521
Reviewer: Elena Tiriel · 2007-12-30 08:38:35 Score: 7
(Possible spoilers within:)

This is the story of the comeuppance of a young minor lord from
Lossarnach, who comes to the Citadel to present his father's
credentials to King Elessar. His father had not come to the aid of
either Pelargir or Minas Tirith during the Siege of Gondor, and was
now belatedly claiming loyalty to the King.

Unfortunately, this young popinjay thinks himself above all the people
left in the Citadel to deal with him, so the seneschal passes him on
to the Lords Iorhael and Perhael, who are not impressed. There are
consequences for the young lord's conceit, but also hope at the very
end that he might learn some humility.

I enjoyed this story, which might possibly be called a comedy of
manners. It was delicious for us, as readers, to know who the idiot
young lord was dealing with, though he did not. Let us just say that
he left a rather negative impression on those who actually matter.

I laughed a lot while reading this story. Well done!

Title: The Wind's Tale · Author: Cara Loup · Races: Hobbits: Gapfiller
· ID: 457
Reviewer: agape4gondor · 2007-12-30 08:41:38 Score: 7
I have so enjoyed the plethora of tales that I never would have read
if not for these MEFA Awards. This tale is one that I know I would not
have found... but it is a treasure.

I do not usually like tales that ae full of descriptive paragraphs.
But there is something haunting in the way this writer writes that
kept me up way too late at night so that I could finish it - sometimes
a tale as good as this needs to be read in one fell swoop!

My favorite part was the time in Cirith Ungol. That passage in
Tolkien's tale has always held me in its sway because of Sam's 'song'
- and the writer does not fail expectations for this time in Frodo and
Sam's journey. Especially, I shuddered at the thought of Sam going
through those bodies, searching for clothing that would fit the two of
them as they continued on in the Quest. It was a horrifying thought -
one that had not occurred to me. I still shudder as I think of it.
Dearest Sam.

A very different tale - one beautifully written that I am glad that I
found.

Title: Yours to command · Author: Lialathuveril · Genres: Romance:
With Rohirrim · ID: 129
Reviewer: Elena Tiriel · 2007-12-30 08:47:24 Score: 5
(Possible spoilers within:)

This is a funny and touching romance between two people who would not
seem to be suited to each other -- the King of Rohan, and the wild,
undisciplined, headstrong -- and blind -- Lothiriel, daughter of
Prince Imrahil of Dol Amroth.

As can be imagined, there are strong obstacles to the romance,
including the disapproval of his men and her father, who tends to be
overly protective... and don't forget the plotting by romantic rivals
and numerous misunderstandings. However, there are serious and
unexpected plot twists and turns that, in the end, prove the doubters
wrong.

I enjoyed reading this romance. Well done!

Title: Gifts · Author: Acacea · Genres: Humor: Other Fixed-Length
Ficlet · ID: 500
Reviewer: Illwynd · 2007-12-30 08:48:15 Score: 4
I don’t think I will ever not love this sweet and funny little story.
It’s certainly a situation that anyone who has spent much time around
small children can relate to, but what I really adore about this is
the way Denethor is drawn in a sympathetic light as he frantically
tries to keep his cherished possessions out of his young son’s mouth.
I also liked Boromir's cameo--I can just picture him revealing that
information from the lofty heights of older-brotherhood. And, of
course, that last line is just hilarious.

Title: The Wink of an Eye · Author: Linda hoyland · Times: Mid Third
Age: 2851 - 3017 TA: Drabble · ID: 664
Reviewer: Elena Tiriel · 2007-12-30 09:03:07 Score: 3
(Possible spoilers within:)

This drabble caught me completely by surprise, and I laughed out loud.
Wicked, wicked, wicked Sauron....

What a great, unexpected sense of humor! Well done.

Title: One Who Sticks Closer than a Brother · Author: Lindelea ·
Genres: Drama: Incomplete · ID: 417
Reviewer: Elena Tiriel · 2007-12-30 09:11:00 Score: 4
(Possible spoilers within:)

Lindelea writes Hobbits who are three-dimensional, adult characters,
and her Ferdibrand Took is one of my favorites. This story flashes
back and forth, bringing him through multiple dangers, many of which
caused by the Ruffians during their Occupation of the Shire. It is
both fascinating and scary at times, and I look forward to updates.
Well done!

Title: Could Will Have Its Way · Author: Nancy Brooke · Races: Men:
Gondor Drabble · ID: 286
Reviewer: Elena Tiriel · 2007-12-30 09:28:52 Score: 3
(Possible spoilers within:)

This is a chilling look at why Denethor might have looked into the
palantir, which led to him being misled by Sauron. We do know that he
became more grim after his wife died, so this is a plausible
scenario... and certainly a scary one! His descent into madness seems
almost inevitable under this scenario.

Well done!

Title: Heart of Lamedon · Author: Nancy Brooke · Races: Men: Gondor
Drabble · ID: 288
Reviewer: Elena Tiriel · 2007-12-30 09:43:13 Score: 6
(Possible spoilers within:)

This is a beautifully evocative character sketch of an obscure
character who played a small but courageous role in the War of the
Ring. We know little of Lord Angbor of Lamedon, except that he
followed the Army of the Dead at Aragorn's bidding, when all others
fled in fear at their approach.

He is struggling here with what seems to be effrontery by this ragged
man, who nonetheless commands his attention. And after living so long
without thinking about the legends rooted at the sources of the
Morthond, he has found his courage to answer the Aragorn's summons.

I like the introspective nature of this drabble, and how the
repetition at the beginning so quickly draws us in and sets up the
dilemma of Angbor... but I especially like how this character's honor
wins out over his doubts.

This is compact, insightful writing at its best. Well done!

Title: Irreverence · Author: Aratlithiel · Genres: Humor · ID: 619
Reviewer: Inkling · 2007-12-30 10:05:18 Score: 5
Aratlithiel is one of the best Frodo-angst writers I know, but she's
no slouch at humor either, as she proves in this quirky piece.

Frodo and Pippin bicker like the close kin they are, knowing exactly
how to push each other's buttons. It's great fun to see the mighty
Heroes of the Quest letting their hair down--or pulling it out,
rather--and getting all snarky and immature. Hobbits make light of
serious matters, as we know, yet there's a kind of shock (and guilty
pleasure) in hearing them ridicule the other's darkest moments.

It's hard to single out a favorite line, the insults are all so
delicious, but I'm pretty fond of this one: ["Get your timelines
straight at least."]

Irreverence indeed!


Title: In Body and Mind · Author: Nessime · Races: Cross-Cultural:
Drabble · ID: 759
Reviewer: Elena Tiriel · 2007-12-30 10:06:56 Score: 9
(Possible spoilers within:)

Ah, this is great, Nessime! I had very recently created a biography
for Elendur in the HASA Research Library, and had compiled those very
quotes for it.... and thought that it would be great if someone wrote
about the resemblances between Elendil and Elendur, and between
Elendur and Aragorn. I'm glad you had the same idea, probably long
before I did! LOL!

I especially like the point of view here, of a female Elf who might
have loved Elendur, if she had ever chosen to love a mortal. And her
shock of recognition when she opens her eyes shows just how strong the
resemblance to Aragorn is.

This is beautifully written, Nessime. I especially like how you
incorporate all the little obscure corners of canon seamlessly, like
the lay being sung in the Common Tongue to please Bilbo and make the
other Hobbits feel more comfortable.

And the author's notes! We likessss bitses of canon, oh yesss we
doesss! There are very few authors who will incorporate quotations
that are nearly six times as long as the drabble itself! *smiles in
complete innocence* I like!

Extremely well done, Nessime! Thank you for sharing this with us!

Title: Mentor · Author: Nessime · Times: Second Age: Drabble · ID: 653
Reviewer: Elena Tiriel · 2007-12-30 10:20:18 Score: 5
(Possible spoilers within:)

This is a touching observation of the Men of Numenor, who were given
Numenor when they were great, but fell into Darkness under the
influence of Sauron. The narrator is another Maia, who was assigned
the task of mentoring them... possibly Uinen, since they were great
sea-farers; but that is merely a guess on the part of this one reader.

It is sad that the Numenoreans choose to abandon the Maia mentor's
teachings for that of Sauron, and it is clear that there will be
memorable repercussions for that choice; I found myself empathizing
with the narrator.

Title: Perturbation of Fate · Author: Rhapsody · Genres: Drama:
General Drabble · ID: 428
Reviewer: Elena Tiriel · 2007-12-30 11:21:32 Score: 3
(Possible spoilers within:)

This is a touching drabble about why Maglor might have stayed along
the seashore after casting the Silmaril there, despite being called
back to the Blessed Realm. It is a plausible idea, told with graceful,
evocative language. Well done!

Title: Stone from Above · Author: Thundera Tiger · Races: Men · ID: 284
Reviewer: Elena Tiriel · 2007-12-30 12:10:23 Score: 6
(Possible spoilers within:)

We know little of the fate of Hama the Doorward, except that his body
was hewed by Orcs outside the gates of the Hornburg during the chaos
of the Battle of the Hornburg.

The author takes what little we know and spins it into a tale of
Hama's death - and such a death it is, worthy of every honor! The
story covers but a few minutes at the end of his life, but they are
slow, harrowing, and agony-stricken minutes. Hama knows he will die,
but in true Rohirric fashion, he fights off his impending death to
make one last contribution to the defense of one, in his judgement,
most worthy of that defense. He sacrifices his life to protect a king.

The story is very tense and well-written, a fitting tribute to a hero.

Title: The Weregild · Author: tyellas · Races: Dwarves · ID: 522
Reviewer: Elena Tiriel · 2007-12-30 12:35:45 Score: 5
(Possible spoilers within:)

A tale of how Sauron as Annatar, Lord of Gifts, might have bestowed
one of the Seven Dwarven Rings of Power, and so ensnared the
dwarf-lords, and awakened the gold-lust in them.

At each step, Sauron seems smooth -- unctuous, actually -- and the
dwarf-king and his counsellor wary... but the king unwittingly
succumbs to the call of the ring.

As I read, I kept wanting to tell the dwarves, "No! Don't take it!"
but, for some reason, they did not listen. ;-) They seem wise at
first, but they cannot resist the lure of this fair-seeming ring.

An enjoyable read... well done!

Title: The Steward's New Clothes · Author: GypsieRose · Genres: Humor:
Gondor or Rohan · ID: 511
Reviewer: Illwynd · 2007-12-30 13:01:21 Score: 5
This little story is delightful for so many reasons, and it has to be
one of the best Denethor-related humor pieces I've ever seen. From the
bit of Seuss-inspired verse at the start, through the Steward's
unlikely method of concentration, the hilarious exchange between
Denethor and the tailor that is the focal point of the story, and the
numerous clever references hidden throughout, it's hard not to grin
all the way through. Sprinkled here and there are the lines that make
the piece unforgettable, each one an expertly dealt kick of humor.
Just recalling them can get me giggling anew. Definitely good funny!

Title: The Young Knights · Author: Soledad · Races: Men: Gondor · ID: 98
Reviewer: Elena Tiriel · 2007-12-30 13:15:47 Score: 8
(Possible spoilers within:)

This is a fascinating and intricate story about young Lord Herumor of
Halabor, who has finished his training as a Knight of Dol Amroth, and
is about to be knighted in his uncle's town in Lossarnach.

The customs of the people in this story seemed to be modeled after
medieval Europe, with fiefdoms and fortresses and even large
tournaments, not to mention intrigues in the arenas of power and
romance. One of the things I especially like is the respect for the
imagined customs of the Old People, the original inhabitants of
Gondor, which I believe Tolkien called the Men of the White Mountains.
For example, Tolkien mentioned that those from Lossarnach favor
battle-axes for combat, and Soledad provides the plausible explanation
that they were favored by the Old People.

I think that this story shines in the way the people in it, whether
canon or original, are portrayed as realistically human, with good
qualities and faults and shining moments and bad. The story captured
my imagination, and made me curious about what would happen next to
these interesting people. Well done!

Title: Domestic Crisis · Author: SurgicalSteel · Races: Men: Eriador
or Rivendell · ID: 729
Reviewer: Cuthalion · 2007-12-30 13:17:36 Score: 10
To say that I love Surgicalsteel's Serindë would be the understatement
of the year. She is the heroine that is always able to make me
happy... thin and not too attractive, skilled and clever, secretly
romantic (but not overly so and certainly never soppy) and equipped
with a razor-sharp wit and tongue plus the colorful vocabulary of a
sailor (Serindë's "personal" curses "Damnitall" and "F...-a-Duck" are
legendary in the part of the fandom where her story is loved and
cherished).

In this tale her husband's brother Thalguron (originally an OMC,
created by shirebound) tries to satisfy the standards of his very
critical sister-in-law. The young man has a terrible reputation for
his wastage of women and normally doesn't really think with his brain
but with other parts of his body. In this delightful little tale he
has to take care of his little niece who dies to be a ranger when
she's grown up - and surprisingly enough, everything works out pretty
well. The niece is happy, Thalguron is surprised and Serindë actually
thankful for his considerate care of the little girl... a fact that
turns the poor philanderer's world upside down.

If you don't know the whole saga of "The King's Surgeon", it may be a
first, delightful glimpse, able to make your mouth water for more. If
you have been following her marvelous monster tale for years - like me
- be sure that you didn't miss this. It is simply wonderful.

Title: Fire and Ice · Author: NeumeIndil · Times: Late Third Age:
3018-3022 TA · ID: 318
Reviewer: Cuthalion · 2007-12-30 13:28:27 Score: 7
One of the reasons why I love NeumeIndil's Gamling/Morwen-tales so
much is the immense reality of this love story, set on the windy
planes of Rohan and close to the court of Meduseld. Her Gamling is a
warm-hearted, strong man, simple but not stupid, surprisingly wise and
an amazing lover. *fans self* (Which brings me to the fact that the
erotic scenes are real and lovely, too, and sizzling hot to boot. I
know many fanfiction authors with ambitions for "juicier" fiction who
should better take some lessons here...).

"Fire and Ice" explores the span of time when Gríma slowly increases
his influence over King Théoden. The war already casts a dark
foreshadow, and the unusual romance between a Rohan Warrior and an
(only seemingly) cynical whore from Gondor shines even brighter
against the growing darkness. I would wholeheartedly recommend to read
the whole series about the building and unfolding of their love on
"Open Scrolls".

Title: Three Cups of Kindness · Author: Elen Kortirion · Times:
Multi-Age: Fixed-Length Ficlet · ID: 448
Reviewer: Elena Tiriel · 2007-12-30 13:44:35 Score: 3
(Possible spoilers within:)

This drabble trio is poignant and bittersweet. Each vignette centers
on a bitter event in Aragorn's life, but in which a friend offers him
a drink to help stave off distress.

The language is beautifully evocative, and taken together, they convey
so much more than each alone. Very nicely done!

Title: The princess from the sea : a Gondorian fairy-tale · Author:
Fawsley · Genres: Alternate Universe · ID: 652
Reviewer: Illwynd · 2007-12-30 13:48:24 Score: 4
Call me a sap, but this fanciful little tale is enough to make me
smile, nod, and sigh wistfully. Although not exactly the sort of story
where one would expect to find Denethor and Finduilas, it works
well--it is deftly crafted and echoes with meaning laid out in
familiar patterns. Though the form is simple, the writing is perfected
fitted to it to make up a very unique, very sweet, and unexpectedly
satisfying story.

Title: Stay With Me · Author: pippinfan88 · Races: Hobbits:
Hurt/Comfort · ID: 518
Reviewer: Cathleen · 2007-12-30 13:56:01 Score: 3
This is such a beautiful story relfecting the love and caring between
Pippin and his favorite auntie! I love the way Esmeralda is there for
him, and that she got him to talk about some of the happier memories
of that long journey. Pippinfan has an awesome way with words and I
enjoy all her stories so much, and this one in particular!

Title: A Special Kind of Lore · Author: Astara · Genres: Romance:
Drabble · ID: 748
Reviewer: Illwynd · 2007-12-30 14:08:14 Score: 4
Even in such a short piece, Astara paints a wonderful, lighthearted
picture of Denethor and Finduilas' characters, through Finduilas' sly
playfulness and Denethor's reaction to her reading material, as well
as his final sigh. The references to the book's origins and its
current condition only make this little glimpse more amusing. A clever
drabble that won't disappoint!

Title: A...Like An Antagonistic Arwen · Author: Linda Hoyland/Raksha
the Demon CoAuthors · Genres: Humor: Other Fixed-Length Ficlet · ID: 758
Reviewer: Gandalfs apprentice · 2007-12-30 14:50:55 Score: 1
It would take one hundred rampaging orcs to say it better.

Title: No Pain, No Gain · Author: annmarwalk · Genres: Humor: Other
Fixed-Length Ficlet · ID: 435
Reviewer: Gandalfs apprentice · 2007-12-30 14:52:44 Score: 1
Clever and funny. Is Merry's tatoo of a baby prince?

Title: Don't Be Deceived · Author: Imhiriel · Genres: Humor: Other
Fixed-Length Ficlet · ID: 351
Reviewer: Gandalfs apprentice · 2007-12-30 14:54:57 Score: 2
Ha ha! Yes, all Tolkien's Man heroes bear a certain resemblance. Turin
is described just the same.

Title: Letter to Frodo · Author: AmandaK · Genres: Alternate Universe:
Gondor or Rohan · ID: 540
Reviewer: Nancy Brooke · 2007-12-30 14:57:11 Score: 3
What emerges from this story for me is not so the forgiveness Boromir
seeks from Frodo, as the compassion that Boromir receives from his
younger brother. Faramir seems to have extensive experience in this
area and the reader cannot help but wonder where he got it.

Title: A Mother's Touch · Author: Raksha the Demon · Genres: Humor:
Other Fixed-Length Ficlet · ID: 44
Reviewer: Gandalfs apprentice · 2007-12-30 15:00:09 Score: 1
Ah yes, no one's a monster in his fond mother's eyes.

Title: Mettarë · Author: Galadriel · Races: Men · ID: 34
Reviewer: Nancy Brooke · 2007-12-30 15:01:23 Score: 2
This is what will make Aragorn a good king: his ability to understand,
sympathise, and redirect gently but firmly.

Title: A Million Little Stars To Light Their Way · Author: Cathleen ·
Genres: Drama: The Shire · ID: 387
Reviewer: Nancy Brooke · 2007-12-30 15:14:10 Score: 3
This story flows most gently from present narrative to memory, showing
how present memory can be on such momentous occasions. I am glad their
reflections brought Merry and Pippin some release and understanding.

Title: A Game of Chess · Author: Marta · Genres: Drama: Gondor Drabble
· ID: 605
Reviewer: Oshun · 2007-12-30 15:14:40 Score: 3
This is one is hilarious: a bad Thorongil drabble. What a treat. It
doesn't matter with he wins or loses. (At first my imagination took
off and I presumed he would win.) He is going to do well enough to
leave Denethor scratching his head and annoyed.

Title: Summer Daze · Author: Marta · Genres: Romance: Pre-Ring War ·
ID: 471
Reviewer: Oshun · 2007-12-30 15:30:39 Score: 8
The writer gives a charming and believable young Faramir in this short
story. A sexual coming-of-age story that is neither silly nor
sentimental nor distastefully explicit, but just exactly right. I
think the idea that Faramir is not just needy and frustrated about his
situation, but pro-active about taking control and finding the right
resolution for himself. The atmoshere that the writer creates around
the weather is of course is a great metaphor for the condition of the
young man the writer is describing here, without overstraining the
conceit. It was written in response to challenge and meets it (and
then some--like finding a prize in a cracker jack box). It is a lovely
story and worthy of its main character. (If I could change anything at
all about it, I would either skip the author's note or put it in a
separate chapter. Anyone who really needed the note, probably wasn't
going to let loose and enjoy the story anyway. On the other hand, as
writers we do have a compulsion to share why we conceive various
scenarios in the way that we do.)

Title: The Land of Gift · Author: Maeve Riannon · Times: First Age and
Prior: House of Fingolfin · ID: 108
Reviewer: Gandalfs apprentice · 2007-12-30 15:32:54 Score: 10
This is what fanfiction should be: Maeve delves deep into the truths
of Tolkien's story--truths he wanted to deny himself, waffling back
and forth over the ghastly Valar. But for those who want to see, the
Valar are as capricious and cruel as all gods, changing the rules to
suit them, making up unconvincing tales and self-justifying excuses
for their godlike ineffectiveness. Maeve gives us something better
instead: two brave people, a Man and an Elf-woman, who decide to make
a difference.

I really, really like it that the creation of Numenor was spurred by
their leap, and imagine this story as the one the Numenoreans told
their children of their beginnings. Here it truly is the land of gift
indeed, and it's a bitter-sweet gift--basking in the winds of
paradise, and never there, by decree--for that ultimate of all
ultimate bad reasons--your own good.

I can imagine that Tolkien himself might have gotten rather indignant
about this particular story, as it gets to the heart of the flaw in
his legendarium. On the other hand, even he admitted some
contradictions: thus we have the doubting Vala Ulmo, surely the best
of the bunch. That Numenor rose from the sea floor is no mere accident!

This is a story that sticks with you.

Title: Future Imperfect · Author: Tanaqui · Times: Mid Third Age: 2851
- 3017 TA · ID: 749
Reviewer: agape4gondor · 2007-12-30 15:41:09 Score: 4
I'm a little surprised that (SPOILER) Faramir would be drawn into
eavesdropping so easily. I would have thought his honor might have
kept him from it.

However, I'm very glad he did. It is an interesting moment between two
strong men. And who could doubt that Denethor would, in the end, not
win this debate.

I particularly liked that the author's Denethor is not abhorrent.

Title: The Return · Author: mistycracraft · Races: Men: Eriador or
Rivendell · ID: 90
Reviewer: nau_tika · 2007-12-30 15:43:25 Score: 3
I cant believe I missed this story earlier. I love your original
character and would like to see more of him. Felt sorry for the poor
man when the Queen surprised him, but I imagine she has that effect on
alot of people. Great fiction!

Title: The Long Winter · Author: Baranduin · Races: Hobbits · ID: 159
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2007-12-30 15:45:52 Score: 4
I love the wonderful way this story mingles RL mythology with
Middle-earth legend and history, to come up with what might have
become the Shire Fairy-tale version of the Long Winter. I especially
liked the way Gandalf was used in this--very much his mysterious,
cryptic self. And the personification of Spring rather reminded me of
Goldberry. Framing it around young Elanor was a lovely stroke as well!

Title: The Days of the King · Author: Randomrattle · Genres: Drama:
With Aragorn · ID: 399
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2007-12-30 15:46:08 Score: 2
A long and fascinating take on post-war Gondor. The take on the
relationship of Legolas to Aragorn and Arwen is rather unique, but I
think what I really like in this story is Gimli.

Title: Fell Wisdom · Author: Marta · Times: Late Third Age: 3018-3022
TA: General Drabble · ID: 323
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2007-12-30 15:46:24 Score: 2
Yes, I can imagine Theoden having these doubts. In the book, once he
is in Helm's Deep, he misses having an adviser. It must have been very
hard for him.

Title: Senses · Author: mistycracraft · Genres: Drama: With Aragorn ·
ID: 367
Reviewer: nau_tika · 2007-12-30 15:46:25 Score: 3
This is one of those stories that it hurts me to read, but I cant seem
to quit because I just have to know what happens. So lets have no more
torturing me or the Ranger for awhile, alright?

Title: February Bride · Author: Cuthalion · Genres: Romance · ID: 678
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2007-12-30 15:46:44 Score: 2
A beautiful sensuous and tender wedding night for Pippin and
Diamond--with a weight of hinted-at backstory behind it that gives it
depth.

Title: The Stranger · Author: mistycracraft · Races: Men: Eriador or
Rivendell · ID: 89
Reviewer: nau_tika · 2007-12-30 15:46:51 Score: 4
This story struck be as being different when I originally read it. I
like how the OC's view of the sword changes as he considers Aragorn.
It's also nice to see a fic where the mother gets credit for teaching
someone manners and the father supporting the decision. I saw that
mentioned more than once about Legolas when he escorted Gandalf into
Theoden's Hall, and I think this has the same tone.



Title: Dangerous Place · Author: Ushmushmeifa · Genres: Drama: Minas
Tirith · ID: 590
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2007-12-30 15:46:59 Score: 2
Beautiful, sad and touching--and all too possible. Boromir was a
natural champion and guardian. He would have sought any hope that
would help him in his task.

Title: The Blessing · Author: Golden/Pearl Took CoAuthors · Genres:
Alternate Universe: Incomplete · ID: 235
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2007-12-30 15:47:35 Score: 4
This is an AU story that asks some startling questions: what if Pippin
had suffered a debilitating injury when he was wounded at the Black
Gate? What if his disability came with a stigma attached? How would he
cope? And how would those who loved him cope? The authors team up to
find some very plausible answers to those difficult questions. I hope
they soon continue--for even as they answer some questions, they raise
others--just like in real life.

Title: The Dryad · Author: Imhiriel · Times: Late Third Age: 3018-3022
TA: General Drabble · ID: 71
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2007-12-30 15:48:05 Score: 4
It has often struck me how marvellous it was that Ithilien managed to
be a haven of loveliness right on the very doorstep of Mordor. I like
the way Imhiriel picked up on that single word of JRRT's ["dryad"] and
brought it in. And it occurred to me on reading, that perhaps the
Entwives might have been dryads. At any rate, it was so clear that
Faramir was *meant* to protect that lonely land.

Title: Aragorn's Moment · Author: docmon · Races: Men: Eriador or
Rivendell · ID: 509
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2007-12-30 15:48:27 Score: 3
These are indeed, just the sorts of thoughts that *could* and *should*
have been going through Aragorn's mind. Yes, I can just see him taking
that metaphorical deep breath, and giving the future over to whatever
might come--still, he would do what was right. Beautiful!

Title: Waste Not, Want Not · Author: Tanaqui · Races: Villains:
Drabble · ID: 722
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2007-12-30 15:48:43 Score: 2
*Ugh!* But I mean that in a good way--it has to be the visceral
reaction the author was hoping for in this drabble from the Orcs' POV!
*shudder*

Title: Not an Ordinary Day · Author: nau_tika · Genres: Drama: The
Fellowship · ID: 737
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2007-12-30 15:48:59 Score: 3
This was a very cute story. I like the fact that Pippin's mistake did
not come from deliberate mischievousness, but was a genuine accident.
And I appreciated the friendship shown by all.

Title: Never Lack · Author: Ruby Nye · Times: Late Third Age:
3018-3022 TA: General Drabble · ID: 453
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2007-12-30 15:49:39 Score: 4
Ruby Nye has an ability in her drabble to say as much with what she
does *not* say as with what she does--a talent that is very useful
when the word count is only one hundred. And she has a great affinity
for stories set during the Troubles in the Shire.

We might be moved to pity for the nameless POV character, if we were
only given the first paragraph to go by. It's the second one, though,
that turns us around, and like a good drabble, the last line that
packs the punch. Beautifully and shiveringly constructed.

Title: Conversion · Author: Pentangle · Genres: Drama: With Aragorn ·
ID: 169
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2007-12-30 15:50:01 Score: 3
A very telling story, I like the way the author framed it with the
stories of rumor and legend, and the way the King and Faramir
responded to being challenged was right in character for both of them.

I also liked the limits that Elessar put on his promises--by not
promising more than he can deliver, he insures that he can keep them.

Title: The Young Knights · Author: Soledad · Races: Men: Gondor · ID: 98
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2007-12-30 15:50:21 Score: 4
This was another of Soledad's meticulously researched stories, and we
get a look at a much younger Faramir, and a young Boromir, who has
just been knighted. The tourney is very accurately described, and
there is plenty of intrigue to go around.

I especially like seeing the beginnings of the personalities we will
see later for the Steward's sons. I enjoyed this tale very much!

Title: The End of Dark Days · Author: annmarwalk/EdorasLass CoAuthors
· Genres: Drama: Minas Tirith · ID: 56
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2007-12-30 15:50:36 Score: 3
This collaboration featuring two very well-depicted OFCs is a delight.
We get to see what the ending of the Ring War meant to Nanny and to
Mag the Cook, with whom we have shared so many previous doings. I
really like this.

Title: Not Fade Away · Author: Jael · Genres: Drama: Elves in Later
Ages · ID: 127
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2007-12-30 15:51:19 Score: 4
I read this a few months ago, after learning about it during an online
discussion of modern-day AUs. It's not a genre I normally care for,
but I found this one to be well-written and fascinating. The OFC was
not a Mary Sue, but a well-rounded character. And I found the way in
which the Elves had adapted to and integrated into, the modern world
both plausible and intriguing. It held my attention so much that I
read it straight through in only a couple of days--something that is
rare for a non-hobbit story to do to me!

Title: Moira · Author: illyria-pffyffin · Races: Hobbits · ID: 676
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2007-12-30 15:51:56 Score: 3
So, so lyrical and thoughtful, as we see Manwe's first glimpse of the
little people who would become known as hobbits. He is the first to be
privy to this "stealth weapon" of Iluvatar, and the first to see their
true worth. Very beautiful and insightful!

Title: My Dear Bandobras · Author: Le Rouret · Times: Fourth Age and
Beyond · ID: 818
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2007-12-30 15:52:13 Score: 4
Even though this story starts out in a humourous vein, it soon becomes
apparent that there is something seriously awry for Legolas, as he
(and others) correspond with his beloved young esquire Bandobras, who
has now returned to the Shire. In spite of the angst in this story, it
is still delightful to see the love and concern that all of his people
and friends have for Legolas. And the letter format is very deftly
handled. I really like this a lot. But then, I'm very fond of the
Green Knight universe.

Title: Where There's Life, There's Hope (and in need of vittles) ·
Author: annmarwalk · Genres: Drama: Gondor Drabble · ID: 463
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2007-12-30 15:52:40 Score: 3
I love annmarwalk's OFC Mag the Cook, and even though she does not
even actually appear in this evocative drabble, her presence is keenly
felt! A beautiful take on the quotation in the title!

Title: Feasting on Poison · Author: Gryffinjack · Races: Hobbits:
Post-Ring War · ID: 534
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2007-12-30 15:52:55 Score: 2
A very amusing take on the "anachronism" of tomatoes in Middle-earth.
I loved Sam's stubbornness in this! And found the revelations of the
others highly amusing!

Title: The Lady’s Offer · Author: pippinfan88 · Genres: Drama: The
Fellowship · ID: 805
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2007-12-30 15:53:15 Score: 3
In the book, Pippin manages to avoid any questions as to what the Lady
offered him in Lothlorien by questioning the others. Yet it's not an
unlikely thought that Pippinfan has found the answer: the one thing
above all others at that point in time that might have tempted him.
That he remained true anyway is once more a tribute to his loyalty and
devotion to Frodo.

Title: Vocabulary Lessons · Author: Larner · Times: Late Third Age:
3018-3022 TA: Gondor · ID: 521
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2007-12-30 15:54:01 Score: 5
Larner has a special talent and expertise in creating OCs whose
purpose is to shed light on the canon characters, and yet remain
memorable in their own right.

In this story, we meet a certain young lord of Gondor who finds that
he does not easily impress those at the court of the King Returned.
The lesson dealt him is sharp and hard, and has the desired effect.

Part of the appeal of this, of course, is in recognizing the mistakes
he's making as he meets certain people. We readers can snicker behind
our hands at his indignation, and anticipate the revelations to come.

A very fun read, yet it also carries with it a serious lesson.

Title: Kindness Rewarded · Author: White Wolf · Races: Elves:
Fixed-Length Ficlet · ID: 494
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2007-12-30 15:54:30 Score: 1
A very cute and delightful encounter that could very well have taken
place. Adorable.

Title: Like Falling Asleep Again · Author: lbilover · Races: Hobbits:
Merry and Pippin · ID: 299
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2007-12-30 15:54:51 Score: 2
Beautiful, it's a real tear-jerker! I love the detail in this, and
most especially the description at the end. It would indeed have been
a joy to them to go together.

Title: Blades of the Downfallen West · Author: Tanaqui · Genres:
Drama: Other Fixed-Length Ficlet · ID: 441
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2007-12-30 15:55:41 Score: 3
[spoilers] Two absolutely beautiful drabbles about two of the hobbits'
swords that came from the barrow-downs. The Witch-king has vastly
different reactions in the first one than in the second. And they were
very well crafted. I absolutely *loved* this line from the second one:
["His heart sparked too, with slow-kindled hobbit courage. Love
conquers fear, as day drives night before it."] A better description
of Merry on the Pelennor can only be found in the original.


Title: Mistaken · Author: Fawsley · Genres: Humor: Drabble · ID: 490
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2007-12-30 15:56:21 Score: 2
Wouldn't that have been wonderful? Well, for Frodo, at least, though
it would have done all of us out of an epic story!

Title: Heirloom · Author: Pearl Took · Races: Hobbits · ID: 778
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2007-12-30 15:56:48 Score: 3
The thimble of the story was the assigned element for a challenge: one
which I think Pearl rose to meet very well. It passes along, mostly
mother to daughter-in-law through many generations of Tooks. I really
liked the way Pearl used Lalia, showing how she could not truly
appreciate the real meaning of the heirloom. Very nicely done!

Title: Ten Thousand Years · Author: Marta · Times: Late Third Age:
3018-3022 TA · ID: 565
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2007-12-30 15:57:06 Score: 3
It had never before occurred to me how Arwen might view Boromir's
presence in Rivendell, nor his inclusion on the Quest. Yet anyone as
astute and intelligent as she might wonder if he would pose a threat
to her beloved. A very thought-provoking vignette!

Title: Domestic Crisis · Author: SurgicalSteel · Races: Men: Eriador
or Rivendell · ID: 729
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2007-12-30 15:57:52 Score: 4
This little snippet from SurgicalSteel's Serinde universe is so much
fun--especially to those of us familiar with her OC, Halbarad's rake
of a brother, Thalguron! His relationship with his sister-in-law has
always been a prickly one, but underneath it all they are fond of one
another. I also love seeing Serinde's and Halbarad's children at this
age, when their personalities are just beginning to peek out. A very
fun read, and I think would even be interesting to someone who did
*not* know the backstory!

Title: Elladan and Elrohir's Not So Excellent Adventure · Author:
Fiondil · Races: Elves · ID: 97
Reviewer: Rhapsody · 2007-12-30 15:58:10 Score: 10
[There will be spoilers!]

To read [Elladan and Elrohir's Not So Excellent Adventure] one must be
prepared to go on a rollercoaster ride of emotions themselves. It is
an all-round story featuring two bouncy young elves who are convinced
that they can make a journey to their grandparents. Have we not all
felt like we could do those things our adults considered us to be to
young of? So much depends on succeeding that you often forget the
hazards on your path.

This story somehow reminded me of Bilbo's crossing over the High Pass
(well except for that avalanche, Goblins, cute cubs and angry
mothers), where he too felt miserable and sore like the twins. Fiondil
breaks the angst with light-hearted moments:
[Elrohir looked up to see Elladan caught in the branches of a nearby
tree, hanging nearly upside down, his braids all awry.

"’Dan, what are you doing up there?" Elrohir asked stupidly.

Elladan gave his brother a jaundiced look. "Birds-nesting. And you?"]

This just marks the twins in Fiondil's verse so well: there is
hurt/comfort (although if I was Elrohir, I would file a complaint
against him being put through so much misery, just as much as Thandir
will ask for a [hazard pay]. As I read the author's notes of the first
chapter, I thought that they should be more adult, but in their
thoughts and actions they are portrayed as bouncy teenagers. This is
such a delight to read, especially since Fiondil handles the voices of
all characters so well: from these teens to adults with ages of
experience. Besides the characterisations of the two twins and other
elves, much more is explored so well here. A special nod towards the
description of the Dwarven realm is well deserved, especially given
the past of this race. The two scouts that have for most of the story
their own adventure and as OC’s are well pictured. The band of dwarves
come across naturally, the sentiments of the past makes it able to
forge a reliable bond between the two races. I love the description of
the Dwarven realm, his lord, and its inhabitants: it is simply
marvellous. There are some gloomy trees as well, a small touch of a
Valar, and still things cannot proceed uneventful. Just as you think
it cannot become any worse, the tension that is so palpable snaps one
Elladan finally gives in once he sees his grandfather.

This story had me laughing, perching on the edge of my seat, pushing
back tears, feeling proud and yes, also in tears that came when
Elladan broke down in the end. It is a wide range of emotions to evoke
from a reader and Fiondil did it with a refined skill. There is so
much more to this story that I am not mentioning in this review, I am
leaving that for other readers to discover it for themselves.


Title: Snare · Author: Ruby Nye · Times: Late Third Age: 3018-3022 TA
· ID: 539
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2007-12-30 16:01:06 Score: 4
This is a vignette that tells more by implication than most other
stories dealing with a similar theme tell by being graphic. What
Pervinca is doing and what is going to happen seem all too obvious to
the reader--and yet we are told none of it directly. This is a story
that is disturbing and dark--yet still holds open that spark of hope
and courage in the heart of every hobbit.

Title: The Undiscovered Country · Author: Wimsey · Genres: Drama:
Elves in Later Ages · ID: 715
Reviewer: nau_tika · 2007-12-30 16:01:09 Score: 4
This story was so wonderfully done. It was almost too sad, yet it was
different from any other presentation I'd seen on Arwen during this
time and remains my favorite ending on the topic. I especially liked
seeing Celeborn included. The descriptions of the city and it's people
were excllent. I thought when I first read it as an anonymous
challenge fic that I recognized the author and I was right!

Title: The Return · Author: mistycracraft · Races: Men: Eriador or
Rivendell · ID: 90
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2007-12-30 16:01:41 Score: 4
This is a follow-up to the author's also nominated story, "The Stranger".

How lovely that Edric was able to meet Strider once more, to enjoy his
friendship for a while, before he had to find out that it was his King.

I am so glad for the way all turned out, and that Edric can now know
that he has a true friend in the King! I am equally pleased that the
King can now know of the impact he had on one young life, when he was
still only a wandering Ranger.


Title: Temptation · Author: Linda hoyland · Times: Mid Third Age: 2851
- 3017 TA: Other Fixed-Length Ficlet · ID: 419
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2007-12-30 16:02:18 Score: 4
[spoilers]

What I liked about this was that it was the girl's resemblance,
however superficial, to Arwen that drew his attention, and his own
compassion and protectivenss that led him to accompany her--but it was
his own iron will and determination that led to his overcoming the
temptation and rejecting her. A good reminder that Aragorn was human,
after all, and had the same resources any human does to choose the
right path.

Title: How Pippin Looked After Merry · Author: PipMer · Races:
Hobbits: Incomplete · ID: 822
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2007-12-30 16:05:20 Score: 3
Poor Pippin! I think the "Houses of Healing" chapter in RotK is one of
the most profoundly moving, as we see Pippin worried and fearful for
the life of his cousin. PipMer explores this time in great detail,
using the chance to dig into Pippin's thoughts at the time. She shows
a good understanding of the emotions.

Title: By Sorrow Unawares · Author: Pearl Took · Races: Hobbits:
Gapfiller · ID: 254
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2007-12-30 16:05:35 Score: 4
This story has several layers to it. It seems at the beginning to be a
simple tale of Pippin trying to keep himself awake while on watch in
Hollin--but it suddenly turns into something else...or does it? There
is a sort of surreal quality to it that leaves the reader unsettled.

I love Pippin's conversation with the badger. It was very inspiring to me.
Thank you, Pearl!

Title: Of Difficulties and Delicate Situations · Author: Garnet Took ·
Races: Hobbits: Post-Grey Havens · ID: 255
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2007-12-30 16:06:06 Score: 3
Garnet Took has an interesting idea of why Faramir is the only child
of Pippin and Diamond listed on the Took Family Tree. What if Pippin's
injuries during the war made it difficult for him to father children?
Her speculations and answers are very plausible.

Title: Mighty among both Elves and Men · Author: Tanaqui · Times:
Multi-Age: Fixed-Length Ficlet · ID: 606
Reviewer: Elena Tiriel · 2007-12-30 16:06:14 Score: 9
(Possible spoilers within:)

Tanaqui's skill with drabbles is unparalleled, and this series so
brilliantly displays how a drabble series can be so much more than the
sum of its drabble parts.

We see many aspects of Elrond here; his life, both canon and imagined
over many millennia. From choosing to remain Elf-kind, to the War of
the Last Alliance, to meeting Celebrian, so telling Gandalf and Thorin
about the lineage of their swords from the troll's hoard... one of
which belongs to Turgon, the King of Gondolin and Elrond's ancestor...
So many aspects of his rich and varied life are examined in this series.

I like the fact that the character's actions and voices are so telling
and so beautifully illustrate their character. Elrond is clearly a
lore-master; he is fascinated by plants and architecture and
exploration, whereas Elros is a wanderer. (But the biggest surprise is
that Tom Bombadil's unique voice comes across perfectly -- an
extraordinary feat!)

This is a thoughtful exploration of a many-layered character, that
fans of Elrond will enjoy immensely.

An extraordinary series. Very well done!


Title: Gifts of the People · Author: Ribby · Times: Late Third Age:
3018-3022 TA: Gondor Drabble · ID: 472
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2007-12-30 16:06:30 Score: 2
It's very nice when fics by different writers overlap--this one seems
to be a part of stories by two other authors, and yet still it can
stand on its own. Very clever!

Title: Fun with Farm'n · Author: Súlriel · Races: Villains: Drabble ·
ID: 269
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2007-12-30 16:09:16 Score: 1
Brrr...*shudder* It's hard to capture the villain's POV well. This
most certainly does.

Title: Duty and Devotion · Author: Marta · Times: Late Third Age:
3018-3022 TA: Other Fixed-Length Ficlet · ID: 411
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2007-12-30 16:09:36 Score: 2
A very sharp and well-chosen 100 words, it explains far better than
many wordier fics what lay behind Beregond taking the incredible risk
he took to save Faramir. Well done!

Title: Dragonfire · Author: White Wolf · Genres: Adventure · ID: 482
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2007-12-30 16:09:55 Score: 1
A very intriguing premise.

Title: In the Hours of Joy · Author: Spindle Berry · Genres: Drama:
With Merry · ID: 289
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2007-12-30 16:10:21 Score: 4
This Cormallen fic, from Gimli's POV is absolutely riveting. We watch
with him, as he (and Legolas) share the watch over Merry watching
Pippin. The love and friendship that has been forged between the
hobbits, and the Elf and Dwarf who accompanied them proves to be a
strong and beautiful thing. I especially like Merry weeping his relief
on Gimli's sturdy shoulder, and the exchange between Elf and Dwarf at
the end!

Title: Green Magic · Author: Gandalfs apprentice · Genres: Crossover ·
ID: 312
Reviewer: Oshun · 2007-12-30 16:10:35 Score: 9
[spoilers]

This is a Middle-earth/modern day crossover situated in the gorgeous
Muir Wood of Northern California. It was almost as much fun to read
the reviews of this story as it was to read the story itself. Others
apparently have been reading this one as a scary, frightening story.
They apparently have never had a kid addicted to a Game Boy. I read it
as out-and-out wish-fulfillment fantasy. A harried mother takes her
children to the woods and strange things happen. A very bad boy gets
just exactly what is coming to him. Many honest mothers' fantasy and
dream come true: to have their demon spawn dealt with by a force
outside of themselves. (If they won't admit it then I think they are
either kidding me or themselves.) I am not a big fan of either genre
used in this one (either horror or modern day Arda), but the author
brings her considerable writing skills and imagination to bear and
gives a carefully-thought out rendition of her choice of subject
matter in this one. The canon, of course, is there as well.

My beautiful children never had acne, but otherwise this cite from the
story is right on point:

["But the loutish teenager in the passenger seat sat silent, scowling
at his Game Boy, his fingers working the buttons as feverishly as his
jaw chewed the gum in his mouth. His acne glistened."] I squeal with
absolute glee every time I read it.



Title: More Than Just Years · Author: Llinos · Genres: Adventure:
Minas Tirith · ID: 362
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2007-12-30 16:11:12 Score: 5
This is a very sweet story in two parts. The first, showing a typical
harvest time in the Shire, in a wonderfully poetic style, is about a
very wee Pippin.

The second part is about Pippin's climb to the beacon, in movie-verse.
And the connection between them is unexpected.

I just love Gandalf in this--his quiet observation of the young
hobbits, as he enjoys watching them, and his kindly interference to
help wee Pippin over his fright! I also liked his surprise that Pippin
still believed in his gift. But it just shows the faith Pippin had in him.


Title: Glimpse of Glory · Author: Linda hoyland · Times: Late Third
Age: 3018-3022 TA: General Drabble · ID: 575
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2007-12-30 16:11:34 Score: 2
I like this glimpse into the mind of Galadriel at her moment of
temptation--very deftly drawn!

Title: Three Arrows · Author: HikoMokushi · Genres: Drama: With Merry
· ID: 717
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2007-12-30 16:12:10 Score: 3
The most moving and evocative scene for me in the movie version of
FotR is Boromir's fierce defense of Merry and Pippin. This author
evokes that scene perfectly from Merry's POV. Beautiful and sad.

Title: Hazardous Going · Author: Auntiemeesh · Races: Hobbits:
Hurt/Comfort · ID: 788
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2007-12-30 16:12:45 Score: 3
A classic hurt/comfort for post-Quest Pippin and Merry--Pippin is
injured as they travel across the Shire, and Merry must care for him
in the absence of a healer. Very tender and sweet, and with an
interesting idea of why Merry might have written his book on herb-lore.

Title: The Promise in her Eyes · Author: EdorasLass · Genres: Humor:
Gondor or Rohan · ID: 100
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2007-12-30 16:13:07 Score: 3
Oh my! It's lovely to see a fic about a young and untroubled Eowyn,
who is trying out her flirting skills. I do feel for the young
minstrel though--I do hope he's learned from now on to keep an eye
open for protective brothers!

Title: Despair · Author: Silivren Tinu · Genres: Drama: The Fellowship
· ID: 171
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2007-12-30 16:13:35 Score: 3
*Would* Legolas have ever spoken of the Ring's call to Boromir? We are
never told that he did--yet I find myself thinking that *if* he did,
it would have been in those terms--for Gondor and Mirkwood did indeed
have much in common.

Title: Adrift · Author: fantasyfan · Times: Late Third Age: 3018-3022
TA: Gondor · ID: 313
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2007-12-30 16:14:09 Score: 4
This is a Cormallen fic with a difference: we are in the mind of the
sleeping Frodo, as he tries to make his senses work. We can hear and
smell, and watch his unfocussed memories. We hear the beating of his
heart, and the sound of his breathing. I found the latter to be
especially evocative as I had asthma as a small child, and I can still
vividly remember being fascinated with the sound of my own breathing
when I had an attack--this is a perfect description of that feeling!

Very beautifully written!

Title: Letting Go · Author: Rowan · Genres: Drama: The Shire · ID: 310
Reviewer: Rhapsody · 2007-12-30 16:14:30 Score: 6
Consider this vignette as a painting: the author first describes the
back scene with quick brush strokes and you find yourself in the
Shire. Then it is time for the details, the characters are entering
the picture, and with delicateness, Rowan gives them body, setting
them apart from the other. This is how this vignette comes across, it
is elegant, yet at some places the flow stops, but Roan picks it up
gently (after all even painters should take a step back). I simply
love the characterisations of both hobbits here, especially Bilbo
feels so... him: energetic, always wanting to be on the move,
rediscovering [to truly be alive.]. Frodo on the other hand sets
himself apart by being so mature considering his age, gentleness and
it is him who lets Bilbo go. This beautiful gapfiller feels at its
place, it feels right that both would discuss this outside in the wild
instead over breakfast. Simply wonderful Rowan!

Title: Tillecking Night in Bree · Author: Elen Kortirion · Races: Men:
General Drabble · ID: 455
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2007-12-30 16:14:40 Score: 2
I loved the full version of this story, and of the origin of the
mysterious phrase "tillecking"--and this drabble captures the essence
of it.

Title: Peregrin · Author: Pearl Took · Races: Hobbits: Gapfiller · ID: 316
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2007-12-30 16:15:05 Score: 4
[spoiler] There are a few movie-verse moments that I could almost wish
were canon. Pippin's climb to light the beacons in RotK is one of
those. I love this treatment of the episode by Pearl, in which his
arduous climb is watched over by a concerned peregrine falcon.

Her treatment of the subject is almost poetic in tone. This is a very
insightful little story, and I could envision it taking place just
this way.

Title: Lord Námo's Yule Gift · Author: Fiondil · Genres: Humor · ID: 335
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2007-12-30 16:15:25 Score: 3
This? Was just an adorable romp! I can easily see Merry and Pippin
deciding to wait in Mandos' Halls for their friends to arrive--and of
course they would try to cheer up Lord Namo in the meanwhile!

Title: Irreverence · Author: Aratlithiel · Genres: Humor · ID: 619
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2007-12-30 16:16:12 Score: 4
Every now and then, it is fun to read a characterization that goes
just a bit against the usual fanon grain. We are so used to seeing
"saint" Frodo, and the younger hobbits who worship him and treat him
like fragile porcelain, that it's nice to see Frodo and Pippin
actually acting like a couple of cousins. And snarky hobbits are
canon--well, not quite so snarky as *this*, but still it's a very fun
read, and in spite of the snark, there is insight and love underneath.

Title: The Burning of the Year · Author: Raksha the Demon · Times:
Late Third Age: 3018-3022 TA: Gondor · ID: 2
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2007-12-30 16:18:52 Score: 5
I thought that I had read and reviewed this story, only to find I had
another story altogether in mind! I'm so glad I made that mistake,
because if I had not, and it had not been brought to my attention, I
would have missed a brilliant fic!

In this multi-layered story, Raksha calls upon RL mythology and
practices to create a unique custom for the Gondorian New Year. It
enables her to pull off a feat of some amazing foreshadowing, as well
as explaining some rather inexplicable moments in canon.

And beyond all this is a stunning characterization of Faramir. His
nobility and sorrow are both well-showcased in this.

Poor Denethor. We see the beginning of the end, here.

Title: Way Out West · Author: Pearl Took · Genres: Adventure: Pre-Ring
War · ID: 769
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2007-12-30 16:19:35 Score: 3
What if Merry and Pippin had once had their own Adventure, long ago,
before the Quest. This story explores the possibility beautifully, and
with a very clever ending manages to make it remain, well, if not
quite probable, at the very least, *possible*, in canon. A very good
job, Pearl!

Title: Sweet Memories · Author: PipMer · Races: Hobbits · ID: 272
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2007-12-30 16:20:08 Score: 3
This begins merely as a young Frodo, reminiscing about his dead
parents, remembering and mourning. It would have been lovely as just
that--but PipMer carries it a step further, by extending the memories
to the Quest, in which Boromir and Frodo are able to find something in
common through their mutual losses. Very insightful.

Title: Droplets · Author: Perelleth · Genres: Adventure: Incomplete ·
ID: 166
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2007-12-30 16:20:44 Score: 3
A very compelling anthology of ficlets, mostly to do with Elves. I
really enjoyed the set of tales concerning the Ring of Barahir, and
was quite struck by the story of the encounter between Eowyn and Elfhelm.

A nice way to spend some time--and each tale gives food for thought,
as well as entertainment.

Title: Tales of the Innkeeper · Author: Allee · Genres: Drama:
Incomplete · ID: 237
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2007-12-30 16:22:30 Score: 4
This is a delightful series of vignettes from the POV of the author's
OMC--a Gondorian innkeeper, who due to bad weather, finds the High
King Elessar himself wintering at his humble inn. His observations on
the King's character are astute and lively. And while he tells us much
about this wonderful king, we also get to know the innkeeper as well.

I really like the voice the author has given her narrator--he really
has quite a personality.

Title: Lords of Gondor, Sons of the Shire · Author: Gandalfs
apprentice · Races: Men: Other Fixed-Length Ficlet · ID: 379
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2007-12-30 16:23:07 Score: 5
These were cute! I loved these encounters between hobbits and the
sturdy sons of Denethor. Boromir's encounter with Sam was
enlightening--I loved Sam's stout defense of "old Strider", and
Boromir's realization of the sense of it.

Pippin and Faramir in the second one, well, that was purely
delightful! I love fics which play up what must have been a very close
friendship, as it resulted in Pippin naming his son after the young
Steward!

*grin* And the picture brought to mind by the last line was wonderful!

I hope the author writes some more of these!

Title: Mercy · Author: conniemarie · Races: Hobbits: Post-Ring War ·
ID: 730
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2007-12-30 16:23:39 Score: 3
I read this AU story a good while back, and it remains indelibly
etched in my mind. It is very angsty, and yet, considering the
circumstances as they are shown here, it is not at all over-the-top.
Beautiful, but so very, very sad.

Title: The Rose in the Courtyard · Author: claudia6032000 · Races:
Cross-Cultural: The Fellowship · ID: 560
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2007-12-30 16:23:58 Score: 2
A very nice portrait of Frodo's forgiving nature--and I love the
metaphor of the rose and the sun that Claudia uses.

Title: Twice blessed is help unlooked for · Author: Tanaqui · Times:
Late Third Age: 3018-3022 TA: Gondor Drabble · ID: 631
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2007-12-30 16:24:24 Score: 1
What a delightful concept, that Imrahil might have recognized his old
comrade-in-arms!

Title: Looking Awfully Hard · Author: Gryffinjack · Races: Hobbits:
Merry and Pippin · ID: 779
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2007-12-30 16:24:43 Score: 3
Gryffinjack shows us a conversation that must have taken place at some
point. What a contrast between Merry's experience with Theoden, and
Pippin's with Denethor! But the last part is purely Pippin!

Title: Diversion · Author: Mar'isu · Times: Late Third Age: 3018-3022
TA: General Drabble · ID: 708
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2007-12-30 16:25:07 Score: 3
There has often been debate about the story-external reasons that
Glorfindel did not accompany the Nine Walkers when they set out--but
here is a perfectly logical story-*INTERNAL* explanation. He had his
own task to do--very well concieved!

Title: Seeking to Please · Author: Gwynnyd · Genres: Romance: Pre-Ring
War · ID: 193
Reviewer: Radbooks · 2007-12-30 16:26:20 Score: 4
I enjoyed this because of the humor and because of how Gywnnyd
portrayed Aragorn. It's the first time Arwen has seen him since he'd
declared his love for her and she is very skeptical and he is very
mature and smooth and with a quick wit, etc. And through it all is a
silent, hidden observer. It's just very well done and a most enjoyable
read. Thanks so much for sharing this tale with us!

Title: Blackest Fate · Author: Branwyn · Times: Mid Third Age: 2851 -
3017 TA: Drabble · ID: 476
Reviewer: Elena Tiriel · 2007-12-30 16:29:09 Score: 3
(Possible spoilers within:)

This is a heartbreaking vignette of a pair of slaves from Rohan who
reach out to comfort each other and help bear the burden of their
captivity. We empathize with them so much, even -- especially --
through the surprise at the end, when we learn more about who they
are. Well done!

Title: Fell Memories · Author: Gwynnyd · Genres: Drama: Other
Fixed-Length Ficlet · ID: 191
Reviewer: Radbooks · 2007-12-30 16:33:29 Score: 4
I am not a fan of drabbles, but Fell Memories made me see how they can
be used in a series like this in a very powerful way. It is not a
story for the faint at heart, but it is a very realistic portrayal of
things that would happen if anyone fell into the hands of orcs - if
they didn't kill you immediately. While I don't say it was an
'enjoyable' read because of the subject matter, it is a story that is
a 'must' read because it is so very well written. Thanks for sharing it.

Title: Iron to Iron · Author: mrkinch · Times: Second Age: Drabble ·
ID: 662
Reviewer: Elena Tiriel · 2007-12-30 16:35:58 Score: 3
(Possible spoilers within:)

A truly interesting and unusual take on how the light of the Two Trees
might react to being imprisoned in the Silmarilli, then in Formenos,
then in Angband....

A compelling possibility. Well done!

Title: Friendship of Their Kind · Author: Dwimordene · Times: Early
Third Age: 1-2850 TA · ID: 425
Reviewer: Radbooks · 2007-12-30 16:49:52 Score: 5
Young Rangers and dragons, what could make for a better story? I
enjoyed reading a mostly original character story and really Aragost
at the end is almost an OC since no one writes him! But it's rare to
find a story like this and Dwim always does a nice job with her
original characters. Going into a dragon lair is unimaginable and yet
they do it anyway. Having to do it because the young men had stumbled
into something they shouldn't have is a 'punishment' that will ensure
they won't do it in the future. I like the older Ranger and the
steadying influence he brings and the lesson he teaches. Nicely done!

Title: The Days of the King · Author: Randomrattle · Genres: Drama:
With Aragorn · ID: 399
Reviewer: Radbooks · 2007-12-30 16:57:03 Score: 5
This is a novel length tale set at the beginning of the fourth age as
Aragorn begins his rule in Minas Tirith. I like the characters and how
they interact with each other, though there is a little mysticism
about the elves which is different, but that's all right... it's fun
reading someone else's take on things.

There is nice tension - with the water problems and the cave in, etc.,
and then periods where life is just moving on as it should. In short,
it's just like real life in that sense!

I am only about two thirds done with the story and hope to finish it
soon, but I can really recommend it as it is very well written.

Title: A Moment Lost · Author: Fawsley · Races: Men: Gondor Drabble ·
ID: 491
Reviewer: Elena Tiriel · 2007-12-30 16:57:57 Score: 2
(Possible spoilers within:)

An unusual take on when Aragorn implicitly became king.

Of course! The Army of the Dead recognized him!

Even better than having healing hands....

Title: The Taming of the Badger · Author: Pentangle · Genres: Drama:
With Aragorn · ID: 234
Reviewer: Radbooks · 2007-12-30 17:06:00 Score: 5
Another wonderful story by Pentangle, this one set when Aragorn
returns to the Dunedain and finds that at least one of the men do not
accept him. One, a healer, has never accepted Arathorn's death and
wants nothing to do with Aragorn and treats him rudely and with
disdain to the dismay of the other men.

The original characters are well written and believable and the story,
which I believe sets up another of Pentangle's stories, is very
enjoyable. I very much like the way she writes Aragorn as well as
Elladan and Elrohir who also make an appearance in this story.

Thanks for sharing this!

Title: No Escape · Author: Aranel Took · Times: Mid Third Age: 2851 -
3017 TA: Drabble · ID: 324
Reviewer: Elena Tiriel · 2007-12-30 17:06:26 Score: 3
(Possible spoilers within:)

This is a chilling drabble about the last stand of the Dwarves who had
recolonized Khazad-dum under Balin's command in the Chamber of
Mazarbul. Whereas we might have thought that the dwarven remains all
belonged to warriors, this vignette shows that that might not be so.
It is heart-breaking.

Title: Too Many Adverbs · Author: Branwyn · Genres: Humor: Drabble ·
ID: 660
Reviewer: Elena Tiriel · 2007-12-30 17:15:40 Score: 3
(Possible spoilers within:)

Okay, I reluctantly admit it -- I burst out laughing hysterically when
I read this initially.... and then wildly giggled afterward.

Most especially well done!

Title: Despair · Author: Silivren Tinu · Genres: Drama: The Fellowship
· ID: 171
Reviewer: Radbooks · 2007-12-30 17:18:20 Score: 5
This is a short gap-filler based on the movie that takes place as the
Fellowship sails down the Anduin. Legolas talks to Boromir after the
man has his bitter confrontation with Aragorn. Legolas speaks to
Boromir about the Ring and the effects and the darkness in Mirkwood, etc.

It is so unusual to have a wonderful story featuring Boromir and
Legolas as the main characters - though Aragorn is also there. The two
did have much in common with the way their lands were so tainted by
evil and how they had to fight against the darkness for so long.

Silivren Tinu did an excellent job portraying the characters and the
tension between them and especially the conflict inside Boromir. It's
a well written story. Thanks for sharing!

Title: The Promise in her Eyes · Author: EdorasLass · Genres: Humor:
Gondor or Rohan · ID: 100
Reviewer: Marta · 2007-12-30 17:18:25 Score: 4
[minor spoilers]
This is an enchanting story of a young Eowyn fooling around with a
stranger passing through Edoras. I like the fact that we see this
first kiss of a female when there are so many stories about romantic
firsts for male characters, and even though it is Eowyn's first kiss
she is very much in charge of it. I also liked the slow way Eowyn's
identity is revealed; the details EdorasLass uses to tell this story
establish a teenage Eowyn who I can easily see growing into the
shieldmaiden. Highly enjoyable all around.

Title: Green · Author: annmarwalk · Times: Late Third Age: 3018-3022
TA: Gondor Drabble · ID: 461
Reviewer: Elena Tiriel · 2007-12-30 17:36:53 Score: 4
(Possible spoilers within:)

This is a beautifully-written vignette describing when Faramir is
called back to renewed life by Aragorn in the Houses of Healing. The
scents that he notices as he awakens are compelling... first the dead
reek of smoke from the funeral pyre when his father tried to murder
him, then the living fragrance of the athelas. The last line is an
especially compelling climax. Well done!

Title: Answers and Questions · Author: Peredhil lover · Genres: Drama:
Youth · ID: 189
Reviewer: Radbooks · 2007-12-30 17:38:25 Score: 6
[Spoilers]

Peredhil Lover chose her pen name well. She writes Elladan and Elrohir
so very well and she makes them unique individuals which many authors
do not. Here Aragorn is a young man on his first patrol and when a
stern Elladan points out all of his mistakes, Elrohir tries to comfort
him. While Elrohir gives Aragorn some of the answers he wants and
needs to hear, by the end of their conversation he realizes he has
even more questions.

A very well written story from a talented author. Aragorn is
convincingly portrayed as a confused young man who needs reassurance
and Elrohir is, in turns, a light hearted and caring older brother and
then a wise and ancient elf who has seen much in his many years.
Things that Aragorn cannot possibly understand.

I really enjoyed this story and highly recommend it. Thanks for
sharing it!

Title: Flame Rekindled · Author: Istarnie · Races: Elves: Incomplete ·
ID: 370
Reviewer: Rhapsody · 2007-12-30 17:41:11 Score: 7
Istarnie has a magnificent way to write Fëanor and Nerdanel. In his
story Fëanor is the central character and I love the way how she
scrawls under his skin and brings out his character: my goodness it
truly sparkles of this screen. The Vala Mandos/Námo feels very
authentic, questioning but not relenting. Together with Fëanor, I do
not get the impression that he really understands him and it feels so
true that Fëanor feels well restricted even there. His anger and pride
just bursts of the screen as you read it. Istarnie’s own OC’s are
mingled into the story, placing this wip firmly in her own created
!verse as she also weaves in canonical events regarding the Noldor in
Beleriand ánd memories from the past. Istarnie shows Nerdanel’s gentle
love and wisdom for him, but also the events that took place while
Melkor spread lies amongst the Noldor. I find this idea very original
and intriguing, it’s a pity that Istarnie hasn’t come around to post
new chapters yet. Especially with such a cliff hanger!

Title: She Watches · Author: Larner · Races: Hobbits: Gapfiller · ID: 640
Reviewer: Rhapsody · 2007-12-30 17:50:42 Score: 4
This is such a intense ficlet. I found it very touching and moving:
her love for Sam shines through in every word and brings tears to my
eyes. I enjoyed reading how Rosie recapped all that happened to Sam
while he was away, and at the end it shows her immense strength to
help him find his place in his Shire again. She might watch, but at
the same time she also knows how to act. Beautifully done Larner, very
powerful!

Title: Miss Dora Baggins' Book of Manners · Author: Dreamflower ·
Races: Hobbits: Incomplete · ID: 239
Reviewer: Rhapsody · 2007-12-30 17:56:14 Score: 4
I really loved reading how Dora wrote her book, it almost as an essay
feel with all the details about proper Shire etiquette, but underneath
the long lists on how to go about things, you can really see how the
Shirelings interacted amongst each other. I can really see how this
project can be of use for those who write stories featuring hobbits,
especially given the thought and energy Dreamflower has put in this.

Title: Elf, Interrupted: Book One: Glorfindel Redux · Author: Fiondil
· Genres: Drama: Elves in Later Ages · ID: 77
Reviewer: Radbooks · 2007-12-30 17:58:17 Score: 10
An incredible story that has so many twists and turns that it is hard
to know where to start with my review.

The characters. The characters are all so well drawn and so believable
and I don't just mean the canon characters but all of the original
ones as well. I was drawn to the story because of Glorfindel, who is
my favorite elven character, but Finrod has moved up my list now and
I'd read next to nothing about him before this story. The way the
Valar are portrayed seems quite convincing to me, I've read other
stories with them and I shudder because they seem too otherwordly for
beings that created Arda and walked and interact with elves on a
regular basis.

The story. I really like the idea that there is tension between those
that rebelled and left Aman and those that stayed behind and
especially those that died and have been reborn. There should be some
animosity because they are after all people and that always exists
between groups of people when one group thinks it's superior. I like
the fact that people are changing and growing throughout the story,
and not just the reborn, but also people like Ingwion who was pretty
arrogant and Alassiel who was the same way.

There is so much going on in the story and yet it wasn't hard for me
to keep things straight with the separate storylines. I look forward
to the continuation of this story because there is still so much
unfinished business.

Thanks so much for sharing this wonderful story with us, Fiondil! It
is a wonderfully written and well crafted story.

Title: Stone of the King · Author: Rowan · Races: Hobbits: Drabble ·
ID: 309
Reviewer: Elena Tiriel · 2007-12-30 17:58:18 Score: 2
(Possible spoilers within:)

An interesting concept! I had never before thought of how Frodo would
think of the statue of Isildur in the Argonath.

Title: More Than Just Years · Author: Llinos · Genres: Adventure:
Minas Tirith · ID: 362
Reviewer: Marigold · 2007-12-30 18:03:04 Score: 10
[Spoiler Alert]

Llinos has written another simply gorgeous story here! I love the way
that she has set up the story by starting out in the peaceful Shire
countryside during Pippin and Merry's childhood and shows us Pippin
and Gandalf's first meeting, This makes the contrast with the darker
setting in Minas Tirith during the seige even more effective than if
she had made the meeting in the Shire a flashback within that part of
the story. It also gives the reader an excellent sense of the long
period of time that Gandalf has been fond of Pippin and adds greater
impact to what he is asking Pippin to do in the second half.

I love the image of Gandalf at the start of the story, lounging around
the Shire in a comfortable and rather proprietary way, just enjoying
being there among the hobbits. The descriptions of the scene - the
weather, the fields, the hobbits finishing their work - as Gandalf
looks about him is just stunning. The descriptions of the peaceful
scene after a hard day's work are so evocative that I could just feel
the late afternoon sun, smell the new mown fragrance and the smell of
pipeweed. I could hear the shouts of the children as they played and
imagine the quiet conversations of the elders as they took a bit of
rest. No wonder Gandalf likes spending time in this lovely and gentle
land!

The little hobbits and their games are so innocent and full of fun! As
she does quite often Llinos has included incidents from her own
childhood growing up in the real-life Shire of the 50's and this adds
realism to their play. I love the way that this author writes little
Merry and Pippin, able to expertly adapt their personalities as we
know them as adults to what they would have been like as children, and
she has done her usual excellent job here. Merry is already watchful
and protective of tiny Pippin and Pippin is striving to keep up with
the big lads and lasses despite being little more than a faunt.
Pippin's reluctance to climb up on the hay waggon is described
particularly well and I loved that Gandalf took such an interest in
helping the little one to overcome his fear with a bit of impressive
magick, not to mention a boost of confidence that will help him
throughout his growing years. Pippin's baby speech is wonderfully
endearing and sweet!

Pippin lighting the beacons is just about my favourite scene from that
instalment of the films and I love the way that it is described here.
The fact that Pippin has confidence that he can accomplish the task
just because Gandalf said that he could was wonderful! And after all,
he has his magick charm to keep him brave. His musings over all of the
times he has depended upon the charm to be brave during the Quest were
all really good, especially when jumping in front of Frodo on
Weathertop - the charm won't save his life and he knows this, it will
just help him to be brave enough to offer it, which Pippin was too
modest to understand.

I was really upset when he lost it, not because of any magickal
qualities that it may have possessed but because it was dear to Pippin
because it was a gift from Gandalf. I really loved Gandalf's pride in
him when he made it back down to the ground and the talk that they had
was lovely! The way that Gandalf helped Pippin to understand that
everything brave that he had done was down to his own courage was just
perfect and Pippin's sudden realisation of just how Gandalf perceives
him, the reasons why he treats him as he does, was so heartwarming. I
loved the gentleness of Gandalf's teasing.

I thought Gandalf was very grandfatherly throughout the tale; for me
this is my very favourite aspect of his relationship with Pippin.
Pippin's character was very innocent and very hobbity.

I loved the lesson that Pippin learned in this story - that it is our
deeds and accomplishments that cause us to mature and not just however
many years we manage to accumulate. Knowing that he is an adult in
Gandalf's eyes, someone that he respects enormously, must have given
Pippin great satisfaction and self-confidence to face the grim days ahead.

A most excellent and exciting story with wonderful characterisations!


Title: Osgiliath · Author: Dwimordene · Times: Late Third Age:
3018-3022 TA: Gondor Drabble · ID: 626
Reviewer: Elena Tiriel · 2007-12-30 18:13:17 Score: 4
(Possible spoilers within:)

This is truly chilling! The readers really get a taste of the stark
terror that must have pervaded the hearts of the soldiers when the
Witch-king made his appearance at the Bridge. What is especially
compelling is the shock at understanding that will not prevail against
such enemies.

The last line is absolutely heart-rending. Very well done!

Title: Calm after the Storm · Author: Imhiriel · Genres: Adventure:
Fixed-Length Ficlet · ID: 350
Reviewer: Radbooks · 2007-12-30 18:13:52 Score: 4
Anything with Imrahil in it is a good story so I had to read it just
for that, a nude Imrahil is over the top. Seriously, it is a very
enjoyable double drabble that I remember reading when you first posted
it. I imagine swimming in the cool waters after a battle would not
only cool you off physically but also emotionally. I liked the images
of Imrahil just thrusting all of his stuff at his esquire because he
just couldn't get the heavy stuff off of himself fast enough. The
burdens he wore were heavy ones.

Nicely done!

Title: Shells · Author: pipkinsweetgrass · Races: Cross-Cultural: With
Pippin · ID: 506
Reviewer: Pearl Took · 2007-12-30 18:18:01 Score: 3
A charming, warm tale of Boromir and Faramir as young lads told to
entertain and comfort an ill Pippin. I loved getting to know about
softshelled crabs and I love the analogy of the crabs at that time in
their lives to the two young lords at a difficult time in their lives.

I love this story! Thank you dear Pipkin Sweetgrass!

Title: Shadows of the Past · Author: Marta · Genres: Drama: General
Drabble · ID: 331
Reviewer: Elena Tiriel · 2007-12-30 18:19:15 Score: 3
(Possible spoilers within:)

Oh, my! What more terrifying way to haunt Smeagol than to have a ring
of SUNflowers around Deagol's grave! That would certainly play on my
guilt if I had murdered someone!

This is creepy! Well done!

Title: Second Mum · Author: Larner · Genres: Drama: The Shire · ID: 82
Reviewer: Rhapsody · 2007-12-30 18:20:54 Score: 6
[spoilers regarding the basic plot]

Larner has done something quite wonderfully with a minor character in
Tolkien’s works. Esme fully earns the centre stage here from Frodo’s
birth to her own death. It shows how love for a child just is, no
matter if the child is adopted or not. This story simply moves your
heart, lures out those tears that just well… Larner dove into key
moments of Frodo’s life and reflected how this influenced Esme, it are
short stories in itself, or vignettes, and in this way she portrayed
this with an enormous intensity. Indirectly (or not, depending on your
viewpoint) it reads as a tribute to all parents who one way or another
feel connected to their child during highs and lows, and learn how to
let go as much as they can. This is a very beautiful story Larner,
thank you for sharing this gem.

Title: The Beginning of a Wonderful Friendship · Author: Imhiriel ·
Races: Cross-Cultural · ID: 629
Reviewer: Radbooks · 2007-12-30 18:23:02 Score: 3
A delightful tale of the first meeting of Celeborn and Galadriel. I
like that Finrod is so focused on his music that he is blissfully
unaware of how he has insulted Celeborn and the other 'dark elves' and
that Luthien just wants to dance.

Nicely done!

Title: Stranger in a strange land · Author: Tanaqui · Races: Men:
General Drabble · ID: 695
Reviewer: Marta · 2007-12-30 18:24:20 Score: 4
[spoilers]
This is a really nice drabble no Aragorn lover will want to miss.
Tanaqui does a very good job of getting across the intensity of the
heat with her usual beautiful turns of phrases to capture the misery
of a really hot day. I'm sure even Minas Tirith would feel warm to a
Northerner like Aragorn, so Harad must have been much worse. This
drabble does a really nice job of creating a scene with lots of
physical details - it immerses the reader completely.

Title: With No Pity · Author: Elen Kortirion · Races: Villains:
Drabble · ID: 391
Reviewer: Elena Tiriel · 2007-12-30 18:28:40 Score: 2
(Possible spoilers within:)

Oh, I like the unexpected twist! Yes, these attackers are fearsome indeed!

Title: Under the Eyes of the Evenstar · Author: Raksha the Demon ·
Genres: Drama: Other Fixed-Length Ficlet · ID: 680
Reviewer: Radbooks · 2007-12-30 18:34:02 Score: 5
I had not considered what Arwen (and her father and brothers for that
matter) would have thought of Boromir as he spent time in their house.
This story is a good beginning from Arwen's point of view and it
seemed a fairly realistic one. For someone whose future happiness
depends on Aragorn taking the throne she needs to have Boromir step
aside or at least support Aragorn. But, her innate courtesy comes to
the fore and she is able to treat him as he deserves and the foresight
she has probably only relieves her a little. One is left with the
question of whether or not she shared that with Aragorn.

Nicely done.

Title: Rauros, golden Rauros-falls · Author: Imhiriel · Genres: Humor:
Drabble · ID: 624
Reviewer: Marta · 2007-12-30 18:34:59 Score: 3
*giggle-snorts*

Oh, this is so funny! You had me giggling - a very original concept,
and it does a very good job of describing the scene to grab the
reader's attention. I enjoyed this highly, and anyone who likes to
laugh from time to time at fandom's inventions like the Boromir-lives
subgenre should find this a funny read.

Title: Some Dark Place · Author: Raksha the Demon · Genres: Adventure:
Fixed-Length Ficlet · ID: 226
Reviewer: Radbooks · 2007-12-30 18:41:40 Score: 4
This captures Aragorn's terror very, very well. It also describes his
encounter with the Riders quite clearly in the flashbacks. It's nice
to see Aragorn as a real man with very real reactions in such a
situation. He's young here and reacts as a young man would. When he's
older - with Frodo and the other hobbits - he's able to master his
fear and do what needs to be done to try and protect them, but for
now, he is too young for such things.

Well done!

Title: A Suitable Tribute · Author: EdorasLass · Genres: Drama · ID: 474
Reviewer: Nancy Brooke · 2007-12-30 18:43:19 Score: 1
So beautiful and strange! this is truly a unique idea, EL, sweetly told.

Title: Sweet Memories · Author: PipMer · Races: Hobbits · ID: 272
Reviewer: Pearl Took · 2007-12-30 18:44:39 Score: 3
This story is a real surprise on many levels. First, it doesn't have
Frodo being overly maudlin while sitting on the bank of the Brandywine
and remembering his parents. Then, we have a wonderful moment between
Frodo and Boromir, which are rare in most stories.

Beautifully done, PipMer!

Title: Dissonance · Author: EdorasLass · Races: Cross-Cultural: Gondor
· ID: 450
Reviewer: Nancy Brooke · 2007-12-30 18:48:30 Score: 3
This is lesson taught so gently. I like that your OFC is too motivated
by compassion to heed her fear, anger or distaste. Your tales are told
so evenly, but still pack an emotional wallop.

Title: Twice blessed is help unlooked for · Author: Tanaqui · Times:
Late Third Age: 3018-3022 TA: Gondor Drabble · ID: 631
Reviewer: Elena Tiriel · 2007-12-30 18:49:10 Score: 5
(Possible spoilers within:)

Tanaqui has a skillful way with words, and this drabble certainly
proves it for all to see. We are dropped directly into heavy combat
action, in which Imrahil's [arms were heavy from dealing death]... so
we know the enemies have been fighting on the Pelennor for a very long
time.

And when the Prince of Dol Amroth sees who is captaining the
reinforcements, his shock is so great, he thinks he must be either
dreaming or dead! And he also cannot believe that Thorongil is not a
doddering old man yet.

I love his reaction of [weary joy] -- it is evocative and realistic.
Beautifully done!

Title: Comes Now The Plaintiff, Frodo Baggins · Author: EdorasLass ·
Genres: Humor: Parody · ID: 17
Reviewer: Anoriath · 2007-12-30 18:50:17 Score: 10
Oh. My. God. I'm not sure I can stop laughing long enough to collect
my thoughts and write something with any reasonable degree of
coherence. *deep breath* Oh my.

How to distill what is so funny about this piece? A truly daunting task.

I think, perhaps, one of the factors for me is Edoraslass' use of a
delightful tension between the thoroughly modern language of legal
action and the heightened pitch of epic fantasy. The lawyerly
narrative voice looks at it all with a wry eye and takes the grand and
moral point of view of the epic fantasy author down a peg or two, or
perhaps three.

And then there is the truly aggrieved tone that speaks to the divide
between the medieval world of Men and the Edwardian land of the
Halflings. Oh dear, that plaintiff Baggins was threatened with nude
feet and the denial of a second breakfast. How dare they!

And not to forget the believability supported by endless details
(e.g., attached exhibits and references to related and counter suits)
that only a high degree of familiarity with legal jargon engenders.

All in all, the above combine to bring about a very effective, wry,
dry, tongue firmly ensconced in cheek sense of humor to the piece that
I thoroughly enjoyed.

Particularly *snork*worthy moments, for me, include:

[(see:Bilbo Baggins vs. Gandalf the Grey et.al vs. Surviving Members
of Thorin Oakenshield and Company, LLC).]

[Instead sending only an all-but-incoherent letter at The Prancing Pony ]

[an individual of questionable mental health called “Tom Bombadil”]

[Defendant Faramir took to speaking in a disjointed, rambling manner,
quoting lengthy passages from poems, while continuing to interrogate
Plaintiff Baggins in an unlawful manner.]

[even though the borders of said area were not clearly marked]

*g*

Title: Triolet: The Weaver's Song · Author: annmarwalk · Genres:
Poetry · ID: 553
Reviewer: Elen Kortirion · 2007-12-30 18:50:37 Score: 4
I am always in awe of those able to master the discipline of formal
verse - something beyond my ken. Here Ann achieves not only,
seemingly, effortless mastery, but also a mystic 'rightness' within
the world of Middle-earth. This is the Weaver's Song that if it was
not chanted as Boromir's cloak was made... well then it should have been!

I've loved and admired it since I first read it - it conjures so much
within its brief structure, a subtle eloquence that leaves the reader
satisfied, yet wanting to no more - lovely.

Title: Perturbation of Fate · Author: Rhapsody · Genres: Drama:
General Drabble · ID: 428
Reviewer: Radbooks · 2007-12-30 18:52:36 Score: 3
A well done drabble about why Maglor stayed in Middle-earth and
wandered the shore when he could have gone back to Aman. I could hear
the call of the sea as I read the drabble because you painted a very
vivid picture here. It somehow fits Maglor and makes sense that this
is why he stayed behind. Nicely done!

Title: The Promise in her Eyes · Author: EdorasLass · Genres: Humor:
Gondor or Rohan · ID: 100
Reviewer: Nancy Brooke · 2007-12-30 18:52:47 Score: 2
This is delightful. Again, your measured unfolding of the story is
what makes it. You keep your pace, and give us tidbit by tidbit, which
strings the reader along happily.

Title: Charms of Wisdom and Grace · Author: annmarwalk · Genres:
Drama: Ithilien · ID: 460
Reviewer: Elen Kortirion · 2007-12-30 18:57:22 Score: 5
This is a lovely continuation of the thoughts originally created in
the Weaver's Song triolet - a delicate companion piece that adds
facets to the characters of both Eowtn and Faramir, allowing the
reader a small glimpse of their well-earned domestic happiness in the
newly dawned Fourth Age of Middle-earth. Complete in itself, it also
provides a nod to an untold backstory of brotherly affection between
Boromir and Faramir, and of Faramir's appreciation for skills other
than with weaponry aquired when he was obviously still a young man.

Title: No Harm Will Come of It · Author: Marigold · Times: Mid Third
Age: 2851 - 3017 TA: Other Fixed-Length Ficlet · ID: 456
Reviewer: Pearl Took · 2007-12-30 19:00:15 Score: 3
This series of drabbles reads like a story and is a wonderful tale.
Marigold takes a very different look at Hamfast Gamgee and I found it
charming as without anyone know about it, the Gaffer learns to read.

Thank you Marigold!

Title: Falling Into Shadow · Author: Marigold · Races: Cross-Cultural:
Incomplete · ID: 205
Reviewer: Pearl Took · 2007-12-30 19:07:37 Score: 3
A wonderful look at something that might have happened to Merry after
the hobbits, Strider and Glorfindel have got Frodo safely to
Rivendell. It is particularly interesting to have Glorfindel take
further care of the hobbits.

Well done Marigold!

Title: Beneath a Gibbous Moon · Author: Bodkin · Races: Cross-Cultural
· ID: 4
Reviewer: Rhapsody · 2007-12-30 19:08:09 Score: 8
These stories are beautifully interconnected with each other, from
generation upon generation the line of Elros meets one of the line of
Mirkwood, where the other witnessed utter loss, the other embraces the
future with optimism. The execution is flawless and the characters are
written intensely, giving them all a distinctive voice in this piece.
This all combined at the backdrop of ME’s history. What I really liked
in this piece is how Bodkin weaves in several themes in the vignette
that either serves as foreshadowing or conflict in the other
vignettes. For example Bodkin approaches the question why Oropher had
sought to create a second Doriath and continued Thingol’s policy of
almost isolation from the outside world.

[Doriath would remain as long as those who loved it held it in their
hearts �" and he would not forget. Neither forget nor forgive.] This
line uttered by Oropher comes across bitter, but it also reflects
Thranduil’s attitude towards his own neighbours in Mirkwood, the
change comes with Legolas.

Then of course there is Elros [I think you should go,’ Elros told him.
‘This is not the place for you.’ He looked out across the darkening
water. ‘And the sea does not sing in your blood. Not yet.’] Moreover,
in a way, Bodkin there foreshadows of what becomes of Legolas, who
features in the third vignette. This is very thoughtfully written.

Title: Four Voices - Autumn, 3018 · Author: annmarwalk · Genres:
Romance: Other Fixed-Length Ficlet · ID: 756
Reviewer: Elen Kortirion · 2007-12-30 19:08:44 Score: 5
Besides the creative use of almost stream of consciousness/single
thoughts, what comes across so very strongly with these half drabbles
is the pure sincerity of each character's musings. They seem both real
and believable... though 'real and believable' may seem an odd thing
to say about fictional characters fictional thoughts. However - in the
realm of fanon that regards Boromir/Theodred as OTP - these are just
what might be recorded as passing through their minds - concern, love,
tenderness, appreciation, admiration.

Between the four very brief 'voices', Ann has deftly created a
dialogue that speaks volumes. Well done!

Title: Shadow and Thought · Author: Linda hoyland · Genres: Drama:
With Aragorn · ID: 122
Reviewer: Radbooks · 2007-12-30 19:10:11 Score: 4
An intriguing story set in the fourth age featuring Aragorn, Faramir,
Arwen and Eowyn. Eowyn feels betrayed when she overhears an innocent
comment that Aragorn makes and her resentment sets up the rest of this
angst-ridden story. She simmering anger towards her king is put to the
test when she has to tend to his life-threatening injuries after he is
wounded by a band of wicked men. It's during that time she learns the
truth of the matter, though there are many twists and turns to get to
that point!

I enjoyed the story, thanks for sharing!

Title: Of Dragons and Manicures · Author: Llinos · Genres: Humor · ID: 714
Reviewer: Pearl Took · 2007-12-30 19:12:50 Score: 2
A charming story within a story. Brave Frodo and Sam know just how to
best a female dragon and help themselves to some of her hoard. Very,
very clever!

Well Done Llinos!

Title: Breath of Spring · Author: Ribby · Races: Men: Gondor Drabble ·
ID: 763
Reviewer: EdorasLass · 2007-12-30 19:13:34 Score: 3
I like how even though it seems that Faramir thinks there may be no
light at the end of this tunnel, he doesn't give up, but [simply sat
where he was and waited], as if somewhere deep inside, he's still
holding onto the hope that things will somehow, someway, be well.



Title: Boys Will Be Boys · Author: annmarwalk · Genres: Humor:
Children · ID: 555
Reviewer: Elen Kortirion · 2007-12-30 19:17:21 Score: 4
Boys do what boys do... even ones destined to be heroes. This is a
charmingly reasoned snippet of Boromir's life, one that catches boyish
thoughts in a fashion that will make many of us nod sagely... yes,
we've all seen pride coming before a, in this case literal, fall...
and the aftermath thereof. We know he gets better, we know he learns
to cope and becomes a much admired Capatin-General... but observing
part of the learning process is a quiet delight.

Title: A Hidden Hope · Author: dancingkatz · Genres: Romance:
Incomplete · ID: 465
Reviewer: Lialathuveril · 2007-12-30 19:18:36 Score: 7
I have to admit I never before lost much thought on Théodred as he
doesn't really play any role in the books and my own favourite is
Éomer, but in this story I’ve come to like him.

What I really enjoyed about the chapters so far is the framing story
involving Éowyn looking after her dying cousin and how it’s
interspersed with what happened the year before. It is also a very
good device to keep up the tension.

The other things I really enjoy are the little sayings and traditions
(like the braid) that give it a very Rohirric feeling and the author’s
obvious knowledge of horses. Also well done are the relationships
between all the principal characters (Théodred, Edlyn, Théoden, Éomer,
Éowyn) being developed. Some of it was heartbreaking, like the accord
between Théodred and his father being shattered, some was heart-warming.

I'm a bit worried that the author hasn't updated for some months. But
I hope that real life will ease up on her and she will get round to
finishing this very nice tale!


Title: Truly Tested · Author: Súlriel · Times: Mid Third Age: 2851 -
3017 TA: Drabble · ID: 257
Reviewer: Elena Tiriel · 2007-12-30 19:19:09 Score: 5
(Possible spoilers within:)

Ah, that makes all the difference, when the abstract becomes concrete!
I'm sure that large straw- or sand-filled bags don't grunt quite so
satisfyingly, nor do their bones crunch, nor do they spray blood. Nor
do they scream.

And every warrior must eventually realize that killing isn't all valor
and renown and Elven lays sung in a fire-filled hall; it's really just
plain hard, dirty, and especially dangerous work.

And it's that understanding that turns the boy-soldier into a tested
warrior.

By the way, the, er, sound-effects were especially effective.... Well
done!

Title: Three Cups of Kindness · Author: Elen Kortirion · Times:
Multi-Age: Fixed-Length Ficlet · ID: 448
Reviewer: Marta · 2007-12-30 19:19:53 Score: 5
This drabble series does a really good job at getting across the
differences in the way that Aragorn grew over the years. The
similarities work well to call the reader's attention to the
differences in Aragorn's character as he matured. I think my favorite
drabble was the first one; the author really gets across the physical
sensation of shock.

The only criticism I had was that it took me a second to see where one
drabble began and the other ended. It would have been easier to see
the distinction if (for example) you had a row of asterisks between
the drabbles.

But that's a minor criticism. This was a lovely drabble, making good
use of the different ways that bitter taste could be used, and I loved it.

Title: Green · Author: annmarwalk · Times: Late Third Age: 3018-3022
TA: Gondor Drabble · ID: 461
Reviewer: Anoriath · 2007-12-30 19:25:59 Score: 7
Ann has a mastery of the drabble that I often envy. Her narrative is
consistently understated but the emotion it evokes is thunderous, all
the same; a thin skin of whispered words that barely contain the power
of the burgeoning storm beneath it.

So it is with Green. In this short piece she calls upon elemental
magic, capturing both Faramir's terror and the barely glimpse power of
Aragorn's charisma and physical strength.

Like the structure of a well-written good haiku, this last words of
this drabble hint at a reversal. Usually, in Tolkien's work, the smell
of athelas evokes memories of a time and place of peace and safety,
but for Faramir, Ann notes that he smells something unfamiliar and yet
recognizable. With this simple reversal, she highlights the
possibility that Faramir never really knew anything of peace and
safety before this, and the idea opens up a whole new understanding of
the Prince of Ithilien's life.

Title: Bransle Royal · Author: Ribby · Times: Late Third Age:
3018-3022 TA: Gondor · ID: 473
Reviewer: EdorasLass · 2007-12-30 19:27:11 Score: 4
This is a wonderful continuation of [Gifts of the People] and [A
Suitable Tribute]. Merrin's husband is so understanding, both of the
cutting of Merrin's hair, and of her crush on the new King; Merrin
herself is sweetly flustered but pleased, and Aragorn is charmingly
thoughtful and full of gratitude, knowing full well what kind of
sacrifice the braid of hair was for Merrin to make.

Would I be wrong to suspect that Aragorn went to that village on
purpose? It seems like the kind of thing he'd do if he could manage to
get away, and get away with it.

Title: Freddy and the Thain's Rabbit · Author: grey_wonderer · Races:
Hobbits · ID: 251
Reviewer: Nancy Brooke · 2007-12-30 19:30:24 Score: 2
This is a lovely story, reminiscent of so many classic tales of toys
that endure as long as there is someone about to love them. Charming!

Title: Journey's End · Author: Altariel · Genres: Drama: Ithilien ·
ID: 442
Reviewer: Radbooks · 2007-12-30 19:31:05 Score: 4
Oh, what a lovely little story. I love seeing Aragorn and Faramir
being able to sneak away and enjoy some peaceful times out with their
people and just having a 'road trip'. I'm sure it was very difficult
for both of them to be stuck in Minas Tirith all the time after their
long years as Rangers. I loved your original character, Eilen, the
hostess of the inn; you made her very real in such a short story. I
wonder if she ever did figure out who she had sleeping in her barn,
but she probably didn't.

Thanks so much for sharing this!


Title: Gifts of the People · Author: Ribby · Times: Late Third Age:
3018-3022 TA: Gondor Drabble · ID: 472
Reviewer: EdorasLass · 2007-12-30 19:33:56 Score: 7

Crops had been scarce as farmers recovered from the damage done to
their lands and their farms. When the time of tithing to the king came
around, many were nervous--if they gave what was expected, there would
be none left for their families.

I do so love this drabble - how aware Aragorn is that his people are
going through a very rough patch in terms of crops, how he doesn't
want to make life any harder for them by demanding tithe of
foodstuffs, and the compromise he comes up with, sending [ out a
messenger saying that the tithe could be paid however his people would
pay it--skills, talents, anything they felt worthy]. This allows all
the new King's subjects to be able to pay allegience to him without
additional hardship, and it seems a very, very Aragorn thing to do -
actually, it seems oddly more Strider to me than Aragorn, if that
makes any kind of sense.

And of course I love the things the people send to him, for you know
many of them worried for days about what would be proper. And I feel
certain that any doubts some may have had about actually having a King
again were laid to rest, once this proclamation went out.


Title: Diversion · Author: Mar'isu · Times: Late Third Age: 3018-3022
TA: General Drabble · ID: 708
Reviewer: Marta · 2007-12-30 19:34:08 Score: 3
Interesting! It makes sense that Glorfindel had to do something since
he didn't go with the Fellowship, and this does a good job of positing
gone possible course of action. Thoroughly believable, and
thought-provoking to boot.

Title: Family Jewels · Author: Raksha the Demon · Genres: Drama: Other
Fixed-Length Ficlet · ID: 464
Reviewer: Nancy Brooke · 2007-12-30 19:34:23 Score: 2
The best tales are those that inform our everyday lives! Both that
that Faramir reads and that we may read here are good examples.

Title: The Tides of the World · Author: Raksha the Demon · Times: Late
Third Age: 3018-3022 TA: Gondor · ID: 101
Reviewer: Rhapsody · 2007-12-30 19:36:54 Score: 5
[Spoilers, I deem]

Aragorn has done all he could and on RotK is a mention of this moment,
but I like it that Raksha explored this. Feeling worn down, his body
demands its rest, but once all is said and done, thoughts will come in
tides crashing down on him. What follows are so many impressions and
Raksha builds up to the moment where weariness is over come by
Aragorn's powerful spirit. I love the small tribute Aragorn is paying
to those who sacrificed their lives, Halbarad and Boromir
specifically. This ficlet has a great build up and works fantastically
as a gapfiller.

Title: Risen From Flame · Author: Ribby · Races: Men: Gondor Drabble ·
ID: 761
Reviewer: EdorasLass · 2007-12-30 19:39:39 Score: 5
Faramir really has more reasons to be broody and weighted down with
massive amounts of angst than almost anyone in Middle Earth (except
perhaps Frodo), yet I don't think that he'd give into that urge
completely, and this drabble is a lovely depiction of and tribute to
his strength.
I love the image of Faramir as phoenix, his old life lying in ashes
behind him, looking forward to the new age and all the possibilities
it holds, particularly when I'm sure there were many moments in the
past when Faramir despaired of being able to live anything resembling
a normal life.





Title: The Lesson · Author: Branwyn · Genres: Drama: Gondor Drabble ·
ID: 29
Reviewer: Radbooks · 2007-12-30 19:42:12 Score: 5
Very well done, Branwyn. It's a very moving drabble that makes you
think about how men at that time were trained for war. My mind was,
unfortunately, drawn to watching my nephews playing a video game where
they actually shoot down people in a simulated war situation. At least
Faramir could use his skill to hunt and to kill wolves to protect the
flocks and herds. Sorry, a bit off track there!

Anyway, your story was wonderful and each line clearly showed the
progression that boys and men went through to get to the place where
they had to use the skill that they'd been learning through the years.

Thanks for sharing!

Title: Blades of the Downfallen West · Author: Tanaqui · Genres:
Drama: Other Fixed-Length Ficlet · ID: 441
Reviewer: Marta · 2007-12-30 19:48:05 Score: 3
This drabble pair has a nice dichotomy, from the pride and haughtiness
of the Witch-king to Merry's simple steadiness. It seemed very
Tolkienesque to me, a nice bookverse gapfiller, and I loved the
development of the history of the blades into a significant point. I
think it was, and the blades' ancestry is often overlooked. Nice work,
Tanaqui.

Title: Keeper of the Jewels · Author: Cuthalion · Genres: Adventure:
Minas Tirith · ID: 64
Reviewer: Radbooks · 2007-12-30 19:48:22 Score: 4
A very exciting and enjoyable tale set in the Fourth Age. I thoroughly
enjoyed the original character because she was very believable and
well written. Hers was a sad life and her efforts to please her father
rang true to me. The hobbits, as well as Aragorn and Faramir were also
very well done and I enjoyed their interactions with each other.

The plot had some very nice twists and cliff-hangers that kept me
guessing right to the end of the story.

Thanks for sharing this very original tale!

Title: Rohan's Future · Author: Madeleine · Genres: Humor: Gondor or
Rohan · ID: 79
Reviewer: nau_tika · 2007-12-30 20:01:59 Score: 3
I'd put off reading this until Unexpected was complete, but finally
read it so I could review. I found Amrothos much more sympathetic in
this fiction when he met his matches! I thought the catapult was a
wonderful idea! Really enjoyed it.

Title: Unexpected · Author: Madeleine · Genres: Romance: Incomplete ·
ID: 559
Reviewer: nau_tika · 2007-12-30 20:02:20 Score: 7
This author writes a delightful Eomer and Lothiriel series from the
time they meet through their wedding and beyond. It contains both
interesting and simply funny moments. It even makes me wish for a
separate series of stories on each of her brothers! There are some
wonderful moments where you laugh with Aragorn as he watches the
conversations (debates) and there are the more serious moments. I love
her interaction with the merchants and children of Rohan. I do not
like Éofor. I have especially enjoyed watching Amrothos come into his
own in this story and show a more responsible side. However, this fic
also makes me want to scream and shake both Lothiriel *and* Madeleine!
Poor Eomer! I am sure Rohan in Madeleine's stories will never be the
same, not will Eomer. I'm anxiously looking forward to the moment when
Lothiriel sees the greater picture from Eomer's point of view. Please,
Madeleine, let him win at least one argument, even though I have never
seen a man enjoy losing more!

Title: Cultural Exchanges In Gondor · Author: Llinos/Marigold
CoAuthors · Times: Late Third Age: 3018-3022 TA: Other Fixed-Length
Ficlet · ID: 94
Reviewer: Rhapsody · 2007-12-30 20:03:35 Score: 5
[A few spoilers]

All these drabbles are masterfully done as both authors showed us what
the Halflings were doing in Gondor after the Ring War. Who would have
thought that Merry would thing belly dancers to be appropriate! My
favourite drabble in the series is when Gandalf shows them the sea,
especially since the Istari mentally braces himself for a long
explanation, but leave it up to Merry& Pippin to find it out for
themselves. And: [Pippin nodded towards Meriadoc, who was grinning
broadly, "we have some considerable experience in the operation of
pyrotechnics and would gladly offer our expertise."] I could so see
them standing there, offering their services! What a fantastic drabble
series and how much fun the two of you must have had when coming up
with these ideas!

Title: Fourth Age, Year 13 · Author: Dwimordene · Times: Fourth Age
and Beyond: Gondor or Rohan · ID: 628
Reviewer: Radbooks · 2007-12-30 20:04:56 Score: 3
A wonderful look at Aragorn as a father. It was a nice way to write
this story and seeing all of his thoughts as he watched his daughter
growing up. I can't wait to see how he reacts to the young men that
are going to start circling around her very, very soon. :)

Nicely done!

Title: Web of Treason · Author: Linda hoyland · Times: Fourth Age and
Beyond: Gondor or Rohan · ID: 124
Reviewer: nau_tika · 2007-12-30 20:07:18 Score: 3
This writer's handling of the friendship between Faramir and Aragorn
is excellent and she's about the only author who has both and Arwen
and an Eowyn I enjoy. This was a painful story emotionally, both for
the characters and the readers!

Title: Foreign Ways · Author: annmarwalk · Genres: Humor: Gondor or
Rohan · ID: 54
Reviewer: Marta · 2007-12-30 20:07:22 Score: 4
Just Lovely! I could so see Mag feigning ignorance to bond in a way
with Eowyn. I do think she would like to explore new recipes, and
Eowyn's experience with Rohirric cooking would seem like an adventure
to her. The described memory, too, was highly entertaining - I could
see it happening all too easily. Nice writing all around, Ann - it
earned a good chuckle from me.

Title: Leaf Subsides to Leaf · Author: Ignoble Bard · Genres: Drama:
Elves in Later Ages · ID: 105
Reviewer: Oshun · 2007-12-30 20:08:32 Score: 6
I really like this story. I like the characterization so much: you
made me believe and care about both Legolas and Thranduil. The issues
between the father and son are clear and yet their affection and
respect for one another are clearer still. It is a thoughtul,
psychologically genuine piece and so moving and beautifully written. I
absolutely share your opinion that Thranduil would not leave. I know
we have very little explicit canon evidence to back up that opinion
one way or the other, but the bulk of the story of the world of
Thranduil, his history and the history of the Sindar would support
that, in my opinion. I notice that you wrote the story for Jael and I
am sure she must have appreciated it greatly, because it neatly
dovetails her characterization of the two elves, while being very much
your own piece.



Title: In the Bloody Cottage · Author: Soubrettina · Races: Men:
Eriador or Rivendell · ID: 581
Reviewer: EdorasLass · 2007-12-30 20:10:38 Score: 10
How you've managed to make this story slightly cold and infused with
warmth, I just don't know, but it suits perfectly, both the process of
childbirth and the rather difficult life Gilraen (and all the women of
the Dúnadan) has to lead. I particularly like the depiction of Dúnadan
women as raised to be strong, sturdy, and hardy as the men, and,
although the idea that a girl-child is a mistake is deeply annoying
from a modern viewpoint, it is in fact demonstrably true in the past
of many cultures, and I do agree that the Dúnadan would surely look on
a daughter as not entirely useful.

The glimpses of the courtship between Arathorn and Gilraen are nicely
done - I like the hints of humour between the two, the implication
that the match was not entirely approved of by all observers, and I
also get the impression that their marriage was rather unexpected as
well. But there is clearly love and attachment between the two, no
matter how surprising their union might have been.

Having never been through childbirth, I can't tell you how accurate
Gilraen's worries, fears, and pains are, but they *feel* accurate. It
tires me out a bit just to read of how weary Gilraen is after she's
actually given birth, and I feel for her, going through such a process
in a lonely, chilly cabin in the woods, watched over by strange Elven
eyes, being uncertain, at this point, whether or not both she and her
child will actually survive.

Title: In Shadow Realm · Author: Legolass · Genres: Adventure · ID: 266
Reviewer: nau_tika · 2007-12-30 20:11:02 Score: 3
This was a very enjoyable fiction. The writer has proven herself
before, but her depiction of Legolas' loyalty continues to be
excellent. I had problems putting this story down long enough to
submit reviews on it.

Title: No Harm Will Come of It · Author: Marigold · Times: Mid Third
Age: 2851 - 3017 TA: Other Fixed-Length Ficlet · ID: 456
Reviewer: Llinos · 2007-12-30 20:11:34 Score: 10
[spoilers]

A wonderfully thought out set of drabbles! At first glance this would
appear to be about Sam and his journey of discovery into the wonderful
world of the written word, but in fact it is actually about the
Gaffer's own discovery of reading, something that no other author has
ever explored to the best of my knowledge. You might think that the
Gaffer learning to read seems out of character but after reading these
lovely drabbles it will all make perfect sense and seem the most
natural thing in the world.

At first he appears slightly dubious, but the Gaffer certainly has no
doubts about his son's ability to learn to read and only paused at
Bilbo's offer to keep poor Sam in suspense, which is actually very
sweet and indicative of a close relationship with his son. He is more
worried about how others might view such an upper class skill and the
repercussions that Sam might have to face. Despite those misgivings
though, he has no intention of his Sam missing out on this opportunity
to better himself.

Nevertheless all qualms are quickly assuaged by pride in his children,
especially when Sam passes the skill on to his young sister Marigold.
Sam's lessons with Marigold are actually the impetus that starts the
Gaffer on his own quest for knowledge, though he starts off simply. He
has no intentions yet to take it so far as he winds up doing by the
end of the series.

The Gaffer's voice is beautifully reflected all the way through this
set, not only his speech patterns, as it is written from his point of
view, but also his attitude which is one of the most original that I
have seen in fanfiction about this subject. The acceptance of reading
into his family has not diminished his misgivings about such things as
travel or reading about fanciful adventures. Marigold deals
sympathetically with these issues whilst skilfully taking the Gaffer
all through the Troubles, filling a nice gap along the way as to why
there is no mention of the author's namesake when the Travellers
return to scour the Shire.

The clincher has to be the last two drabbles �" the conclusion was
hinted at vaguely before but Marigold delivers it in a neat and
touching way that leaves the reader feeling very satisfied and maybe a
little teary-eyed. Not to mention wondering what the Gaffer will do
with his newfound skill in the future. I have the idea that Sam may
not be the only Gamgee borrowing books from the Baggins library!


Title: Circumstantial Heroes · Author: Gwynnyd · Genres: Drama: Minas
Tirith · ID: 684
Reviewer: Radbooks · 2007-12-30 20:13:05 Score: 8
A very well written look at the first days of Aragorn's kingship and
the concerns Pippin has about the servants who helped Denethor kill
himself. It was something I had not considered before and Pippin has a
very valid point about making sure that Aragorn is safe from these
servants who perhaps would be willing to harm this new king. I am
impressed with Pippin's maturity here (in spite of the drinking!) and
his understanding of the situation and his offer to sacrifice himself
along with Beregrond since he convinced the guard to leave his post.

The two servants we meet are such a contrast. The one makes you
shudder. I can't imagine why he would even think to treat Pippin the
way he did knowing that he was a friend of the king. And then his
attitude toward Aragorn just floored me. The head servant is properly
respectful and knows how to serve and will do quite well in the new
household.

It's a very well told tale and I really enjoyed it. Both Aragorn and
Pippin are well written and seem true to the way Tolkien portrayed
them and the original characters are also well drawn.

Nicely done and thanks for sharing!

Title: Glimpses from Cormallen · Author: Marigold · Times: Late Third
Age: 3018-3022 TA: Other Fixed-Length Ficlet · ID: 614
Reviewer: Llinos · 2007-12-30 20:15:40 Score: 10
A set of drabbles is a good vehicle for this subject, for although
Tolkien neglected to give us much information about Pippin's recovery
from Troll-slaying, the fan writers have given us a wealth of stories.
That is why I think Marigold's choice of just showing us glimpses of
her take on it through drabbles is well done as there is only so much
more to be said and most readers know the situation backwards.

Nevertheless, this is a neat view and although we naturally see Merry
doing much of the caring, is not overly sentimentalised or
angst-ridden. Gandalf and Aragorn make welcome appearances and Pippin
is good-natured and chirpy and not dragged down by his injuries,
although Marigold skilfully gives us a clue that he is making lighter
of things than might be expected. I particularly liked Pippin's use of
private profanity, indicating that he is being stoic to his companions
and healers, but is actually in far more discomfort than he is letting on.

We also learn a little of Merry's development, not just his
knighthood, as is usually portrayed, but added talents which most
writers neglect but are hinted at strongly by Tolkien.

A well done set by a talented drabble writer, understated in a way
that allows room for the readers own take on the recovery process, but
with enough caring and healing to warrant another read �" if not several!


Title: In the Waiting · Author: Altariel · Races: Men: Gondor · ID: 392
Reviewer: Marta · 2007-12-30 20:17:18 Score: 2
Nice gapfiller - I could really see this being Faramir, both the
introspection and the twinge of need of approval. And the first person
gave it a nice sense of immediacy. Well done.

Title: A Time to Reap · Author: Linda hoyland · Genres: Adventure:
Incomplete · ID: 415
Reviewer: nau_tika · 2007-12-30 20:17:33 Score: 3
I am enjoying this fic even more than the one that came before it. The
changes in the friendship between Faramir and Aragorn were welcome and
well done. I'm really looking forward to the continuation of this story.

Title: Shadow and Thought · Author: Linda hoyland · Genres: Drama:
With Aragorn · ID: 122
Reviewer: nau_tika · 2007-12-30 20:23:05 Score: 2
This was the first story of this author's that I ever read and it put
me on a wonderful road with Faramir's and Aragorn's friendship.

Title: Passages · Author: Isabeau of Greenlea · Genres: Drama:
Incomplete · ID: 60
Reviewer: Radbooks · 2007-12-30 20:26:06 Score: 10
[Spoilers]

A wonderful tale by one of my favorite authors. While the story has
many original characters, I've grown to enjoy them almost as much as
many canon characters. This story has a lot of angst in it as young
Brand discovers some things about his foster father and his real
father that, frankly, he would rather not have known. He's captured by
pirates and 'meets' his father in a vision, but that meeting is not
quite what he had hoped for, though it does help him deal with the
pirates. While all of this is going on, he becomes a lord and while
that is not dwelt on in the story, it still must have been slightly
unnerving for the young man.

I enjoy Brand's relationship with Hethlin (if only because I enjoy her
so much and these tiny glimpses are better than nothing!), and I
especially liked it when Brand and Imrahil were eating in the kitchen
late at night and Brand worked it out so Hethlin and Imrahil were left
sitting alone at the table. It was nicely done on his part.

I'm hoping that Brand and Andrahar's relationship will be mended soon
because I hate to see them at odds with each other. The two of them
need each other. Though, I'm afraid that when it does the story will
be ending so that's not good either!

Thanks so much for sharing this with us!

Title: Taking Leave · Author: Soubrettina · Times: Fourth Age and
Beyond: Gondor or Rohan · ID: 326
Reviewer: EdorasLass · 2007-12-30 20:30:19 Score: 10
Yes, I'm [not big on the death of..] stories, either, but this one
definitely stays in my memory.

You certainly don't pull any punches; Eowyn's wildly swinging moods
and declining health - both mental and physical- are never overdone,
while showing exactly how low the diease has brought her, and it's
achingly painful to see the Eowyn of the Ring War all but helpless,
sometimes lost in memories or utterly confused as to what's happening
around here. The bits of humour work well, but while they work, they
also reinforce the fact that there's nothing any of them can do for
Eowyn but ease her on her way, which makes it all the more heartrending.

I love how Aragorn gets annoyed with Faramir for trying to hide his
grief, and I do love how he seems to almost immediately assume that
Faramir just doesn't see Eowyn's decline, that he's still seeing her
as that vibrant , strong young woman who slew the Witch-King. And when
Aragorn realizes that no, Faramir sees, sees very well indeed, this
turns into one of the few fics that makes me utterly weepy.

It does seem so very, *very* Eowyn that she would try to hide her
sickness as long as she could; her anger and worry for what Faramir
will do once she's gone, the utter helplessness and frustration of all
those around her are perfectly drawn, and the image of her friends
gathering, all aging themselves, is really just completely beautiful.

Title: Bonfires of Trust, Flashfloods of Pain · Author: Klose ·
Genres: Drama: Second Age or Earlier · ID: 413
Reviewer: Rhapsody · 2007-12-30 20:34:02 Score: 6
Oi, what a story and I did not recognise it immediately since I read
the same story with a different title. Klose picks out a short moment
from the Silmarillion and gives the parting of Fingolfin and Ainarë so
much more depth. After reading this, I am not sure why Ainarë chose
her friend above that of her children, especially since she proudly
claims [they who are the very flesh of my womb.]. I ponder if this
regret will haunt her later on and it seems that Fingolfin has more
forgiveness in his heart than his wife. Come to think of it, that is
what makes him so valiant. This is a great character piece featuring
Fingolfin, especially now that he is father away from the Valar, it
seems that he now can comprehend what has escaped him for so long.
This bit specifically stands out:
["Melkor has done more than commit an evil murder," I say, after a
short time of silence. "The nightmare that has been the past few
years, it has all been a result of his machinations. Would that I had
known better, and turned down his counsel."]

This is a graceful story with a fabulous title that frames a moment
that deserved to be expanded upon.


Title: Falling Into Shadow · Author: Marigold · Races: Cross-Cultural:
Incomplete · ID: 205
Reviewer: Llinos · 2007-12-30 20:35:46 Score: 10
[Spoilers]

Not many people seem to have realised or understood that poor Merry
has already encountered the Black Breath three times by Rivendell, so
this story was an eye-opener and makes the reader realise with a jolt
just what a devastating effect this could well have had on the hobbit.

Marigold starts her tale quite mysteriously, as it is not immediately
obvious where Merry and Pippin are. At first it would seem that they
may be in the Houses of Healing, but as the story unfolds we find that
the Travellers have only reached Rivendell and that, whilst most of
the attention is focussed on Frodo, Merry too is suffering ill-effects
from his exposure to evil though neither of them realise at this point
what is wrong with him.

Marigold is very knowledgeable when it comes to canon and incredibly
astute at picking up these seemingly small details and then turning
them into a dramatic situation. We fear for Merry even more here as we
know that Frodo, quite rightly, is demanding most of the attention at
the moment. Merry's selfless insistence that no one be distracted when
Frodo has need of them is marvellously in character. I liked how
Marigold has Pippin resolve the problem of the shortage of healers by
seeking out Glorfindel, which is perfectly logical, as at that stage
he would be the one elf with whom the hobbits would have been familiar.

This, hopefully proves a good choice, as not only does Glorfindel
understand the problem, but enlists Pippin as the main succour for his
ailing cousin. Perhaps Pippin would have found this solution on his
own, for lack of other aid, but the elf Lord gives him the confidence
he needs to help Merry. Pippin too is wonderfully in character, fierce
and protective of his cousin yet unsure of his abilities. I also liked
the way that Glorfindel was portrayed, to my knowledge the first time
Marigold has attempted to write his character, though you would never
guess it.

This story is awaiting a conclusion and, whilst in no real doubt about
the outcome, I am eager to see how Marigold, via Pippin, brings this
about. I will also, from now on, think about the cumulative effects of
the Black Breath on Merry when I am rereading that chapter of the
book, something that will make one of my favourite sections even more
dramatic.


Title: The Exile · Author: Raksha the Demon · Races: Men: Other
Fixed-Length Ficlet · ID: 537
Reviewer: Elena Tiriel · 2007-12-30 20:45:05 Score: 4
(Possible spoilers within:)

This is an Alternate Universe story describing "what if?": what it
would have been like for Beregond if Elessar had exiled him from Minas
Tirith. His pain at being separated from the home of his birth is
palpable, and his mournful situation breaks the heart.

This story makes me truly glad that the canon Elessar in fact promotes
rather than punishes Beregond, as shown by the quoted passage, because
-- as this story so aptly demonstrates -- exiling him would have been
a very serious miscarriage of justice.


Title: Keepsake · Author: Marigold · Races: Hobbits: Vignette · ID: 256
Reviewer: Llinos · 2007-12-30 20:47:30 Score: 10
[Spoilers]

How could I not love this story? It was written for my birthday and is
complementary to a tale of my own, "More Than Just Years".

Marigold had always felt sad that I ended my own story with Pippin
losing his special Magnick ear of wheat that Gandalf had gifted to
him! And I had to agree with her, but the story demanded it. So it was
a lovely conclusion that she writes here and does not diminish the
original in any way as it takes place at the very end of the Gandalf
and Pippin relationship, at least in Middle-earth. So what better way
of resolving the situation than to write her own ending and it is a
lovely one.

I know that Marigold does not readily write negative stories but it is
hard to pull many positive thoughts from the sad departure of Frodo,
Bilbo and Gandalf. Nevertheless she achieves this with glimmers of
hope for a final reunion beyond the grey rain curtain and that is all
to the good, especially as those thoughts come early in the story.
Pippin's understanding and acceptance of the inevitable are indicative
of the maturity he has gained during his adventures and show just how
much wisdom he has gained to temper and balance his youthful and more
ebullient traits.

She handles Gandalf's leave taking of Pippin with emotion and a new
sense that the elderly wizard now acknowledges Peregrin Took as a
responsible adult. For all that he berated and teased him in early
days, he is now happy to hand over the reins of the Shire to a worthy
hobbit who will become in his own words the greatest Thain in hobbit
history.

But, more than that, in the simple gesture of replacing Pippin's lost
talisman, not with one exactly the same, but a similar, albeit more
cunningly designed token, one more suited to a responsible adult in
its richness, the author cements the lasting bond of friendship that
we all know must have existed but that Tolkien left for us to spell
out for ourselves and to each other.

In addition to the emotional aspects of the story the setting is also
vividly described and the characterisations are just lovely.

This is a story that I highly recommend.


Title: Measures of Time · Author: Raksha the Demon · Genres: Romance:
Gondor · ID: 50
Reviewer: Rhapsody · 2007-12-30 21:02:26 Score: 5
[spoiler alert]

Oh this is such an elegant piece, it just flows on the steps or music
of the dance. Éowyn just feels so Éowyn: strong as a lily, but she is
aging, although that of course will not mean that her spirit will
fade. Her musings surely tells us this! And ah, Faramir, he is such a
gentleman and their love is just as strong as the day they met in the
Houses of Healing. This piece tells us of a happy married life, Éowyn
sounds so content, and will try to get the best out of it as long as
she can. Raksha’s writing is very vivid and leaves the story with a
beautiful portrait of Faramir and Éowyn dancing.

Title: Many Guises and Many Names · Author: Gandalfs apprentice ·
Times: Mid Third Age: 2851 - 3017 TA: Other Fixed-Length Ficlet · ID: 380
Reviewer: Anoriath · 2007-12-30 21:02:37 Score: 10
We Dúnedain-fanciers are a small but rather passionate lot. *g* We so
rarely get to peek inside Aragorn's head. He emotes freely on so few
occasions and so often appears grim and self-sufficient, that it is
easy to take him for granted. (Ah, certainly this is the
warrior-monk-hidden king drawn from the usual fantasy stable of
characters.) Depth of appreciation for Aragorn, I think, often grows
slowly over time, and only once the reader has developed a sufficient
comfort with perceiving the man between the lines, the personality
that drives his grim ardor. Because it is hard-won, I think the
appreciation of Aragorn is all the more precious.

The man Aragorn, in all his quiet passion, is hard to capture, but
Gandalf's Apprentice has done so here, and with so few but well-chosen
words.

One of my favorites of this small collection is Aragorn and Gandalf's
meeting in the Prancing Pony. Gandalf functions well as a mirror in
which Aragorn's resolve, humility, master of men, confidence, and
boundless well of hope. He is a good choice. Who else would be able to
needle Aragorn and hope to come out of the process unscathed.

Another favorite of mine is Aragorn as Thorongil, listening to yet
another rendition of the Lay of Luthien. I had not thought of this
particular emotional reaction, so I had to laugh with delight when
Gandalf's Apprentice portrays Aragorn as unamused. [Why must every
young singer take on the test of this song? he asked himself irritably.]

Title: Oliphaunts and String · Author: agape4gondor · Genres: Drama:
Other Fixed-Length Ficlet · ID: 658
Reviewer: White Wolf · 2007-12-30 21:06:02 Score: 2
This is a very chilling prelude to what we know is coming for this
tragic character. Good imagery and dialogue.

Title: Duty and Devotion · Author: Marta · Times: Late Third Age:
3018-3022 TA: Other Fixed-Length Ficlet · ID: 411
Reviewer: Rhapsody · 2007-12-30 21:11:49 Score: 5
[spoilers ahoy]

This is an interesting exploration of Beregond's motives, I can see
why he felt pushed aside by charming Pippin, who compared to others
rose quickly in ranks just because he spent some days with Boromir.
Beregond anger feels justified and something needs to well, snap him
out of it. What better way than a Nazgul approaching, making Beregond
think he wasted his time and finally realised what he ought to do:
defending his city and honour. Although I don't think that was the
Nazgul's intent though ;) Still this worked very well for this
character. Another thing that crossed my mind was that even though
this was a double drabble, it had the feel much more was conveyed to
the reader. Well done!

Title: A Little Knowledge Can Be A Dangerous Thing · Author: Tanaqui ·
Races: Men: Other Fixed-Length Ficlet · ID: 352
Reviewer: Elena Tiriel · 2007-12-30 21:15:39 Score: 7
(Possible spoilers within:)

This is a delightful series exploring what it would be like if Arwen's
dowry included copies of many volumes from Elrond's library. Faramir
the scholar practically bursts with glee when he first hears of the
wondrous gift, and he sets about helping Arwen to decide to which
Gondorian towns the books should be bestowed. Aragorn secretly orders
that Emyn Arnen is to receive a copy of every one, causing the Steward
Faramir distress because of the cost. Here is where the humor sets in:
the author starts a running gag where Elessar says that he can afford
to avoid wearing uncomfortable court clothes to afford more books for
the realm, and that theme is continued in several of the drabbles. In
the end, Elessar contentedly spends a rainy afternoon in Emyn Arnen
with Faramir, perusing the new books.

Any drabble-lover, or any book-lover or
fancy-uncomfortable-clothes-hater for that matter, would love this
series! Well done!

Title: Respite · Author: Lindelea · Races: Men: Gondor Drabble · ID: 303
Reviewer: White Wolf · 2007-12-30 21:18:47 Score: 2
This is a thoughtful piece showing how precious a moment for yourself
is, when duties are never far away.

Title: Brothers at Heart · Author: Radbooks · Times: Mid Third Age:
2851 - 3017 TA · ID: 330
Reviewer: Linda hoyland · 2007-12-30 21:20:58 Score: 5
A very enjoyable and well told story concerning Aragorn's return to
his own people and his gradual learning to become a great and caring
leader. Another major theme is Aragorn's forming of a close friendship
with Halbarad and becoming as a brother to him. I like Halbarad and
only wish there were more stories written about him.
I especially enjoyed Aragorn's growth as a leader and the sometimes
harrowing decisions he has to make,especially concerning a young OC. I
can easily believe this was how Tolkien intended Aragorn's training to
be for the great King he will become. This is a favourite story of
mine and I highly reccomend it.

Title: Well-Lettered (The Director's Cut) · Author: Ribby · Races:
Men: Other Fixed-Length Ficlet · ID: 762
Reviewer: Elena Tiriel · 2007-12-30 21:23:45 Score: 5
(Possible spoilers within:)

I enjoyed reading this double-drabble tremendously. It shows how
Steward Faramir and King Elessar have so much in common, both being
scholarly when they can afford the time to be so, and both loving
Elven poetry in particular. I especially enjoyed the hints that, now
that the War of the Ring was finally over, both of these men would at
least sometimes have some leisure time to pursue their more scholarly
interests. And also, it is especially hopeful that these two have
learned to share their love of books. Very nicely done!

Title: Dawning Hope: A Day Out · Author: Radbooks · Times: Mid Third
Age: 2851 - 3017 TA · ID: 659
Reviewer: Linda hoyland · 2007-12-30 21:25:54 Score: 4
I admit I usually find stories about Theodred boring or distasteful,
but this one truly caught my attention as it brings Theoden's heir to
life as a warm hearted and likeable young man who does his best to
help his orphaned couisins when they come to live with his Uncle.

The children are beautifully characterised,especially young Eowyn and
her gnawing grief for her mother.

This is a heartwarming family story and also an adventure when
Theodred's plans to give his young couisins a day out go awry.

Title: Don't Be Deceived · Author: Imhiriel · Genres: Humor: Other
Fixed-Length Ficlet · ID: 351
Reviewer: Elena Tiriel · 2007-12-30 21:29:55 Score: 3
(Possible spoilers within:)

This is a funny case of authorial misdirection; the character drinking
in the inn is very familiar, so we think we know who he is and what is
about to happen.

But he isn't. And it doesn't. And we are surprised.

Very funny!

Title: On the Banks of the Brandywine (Berilac's Song) · Author:
Dreamflower · Genres: Poetry: With Hobbits · ID: 712
Reviewer: Linda hoyland · 2007-12-30 21:30:30 Score: 2
A charming Hobbit love song in the style of an old English folk song.
What Hobbit lass could resist if this were sung to her by her love?

Title: The Great Hobbiton Race 1435 · Author: Llinos · Races: Hobbits:
Incomplete · ID: 83
Reviewer: Marigold · 2007-12-30 21:33:37 Score: 10
Once more Llinos has outdone herself with a story that has me rolling
about laughing out loud with each and every chapter! The centrepiece
of this story is the grandly named [Great Steam Vapour Spindle
Activated Vegetation Dissection and Lubrication Apparatus �" by
Appointment to Thain Peregrin I, and under Chartered Licence from
Meriadoc Brandybuck, Master of Buckland, dedicated to the Hobbits of
Bywater and Hobbiton in the Year 1435.] Leave it to Merry to make sure
that he has the licensing rights! For all of its fancy title it is in
fact simply a steam driven contraption meant to cut grass, a fact
which only comes to light after some very funny musings by the
townsfolk as to its possible purpose. Though Merry and Pippin are
bursting with pride over the device the other more provincial hobbits
aren't quite sure, such a thing being quite out of their reckoning and
Sam's take on it is in wonderful character, cutting to the heart of
the matter in typically few words. I loved his reaction when Merry and
Pippin announced that they would provide a practical demonstration:
[Sam sighed, grinned and waited for the worst.] He has come to know
these two quite well over the years and has no delusions that anything
to do with this extravagant and unnecessary piece of machinery would
go just exactly right with Merry and Pippin in charge of it. And he is
quite right about that!

The reactions of the various hobbits when the thing is fired up are
very funny as is the image of Pippin proudly ensconced as the driver
and Merry spouting techno-babble to an unconvinced Sam. It made me
think of the sudden appearances of new inventions in the Victorian and
Industrial Ages when the common folks probably had much the same
thoughts about these devices as the hobbits do towards this fancy
lawnmower!

The contest (which will soon become The Wager) which is finally
decided upon gives the reader a glorious feeling of "Uh oh!" and we
aren't disappointed at the ensuing mayhem! All of the near disasters
as Merry and Pippin race their magnificent machine against the sedate
pace of Sam and Frodo-lad using more traditional methods are
uproarious, without being over the top. This is something that I
really admire about Llinos' humour; she is able to write incredibly
hilarious situations without making them seem unbelievable.

The various predicaments and impediments to the proper operation of
the machine have me laughing out loud every time I reread this story
(which is often!). The various tussles with gears, hedges and
townspeople, Pippin's unintentional acrobatics, the descriptions of
the driverless contraption tearing across the party field, Frodo-lad's
narrow escape over the hedge and oh dear, the wasps!…just terrific,
all of it! It is slapstick of the very best kind, the kind that just
builds and builds and yet remains believable within the context of the
story.

Of course Merry and Pippin couldn't get through this challenge without
tempers flaring (theirs and the spectators, lol!) and one of my
favourite bits comes when they are trying to figure out why their
machine has ceased working:

Pippin: ["Can you identify the problem?"
"Apart from you?" Merry frowned. "No!"]

Simple lines, yes, but at that precise point in the story they hit the
reader right in the funnybone!

As she often does Llinos has written a lovely song that is included in
the story which Pippin sings to the crowd and as always it is
wonderfully hobbity. I must say that I love the way that this author
drops verses into her stories, mainly because it is so reminiscent of
Professor Tolkien himself! It is also truly the mark of a talented
writer and sets her apart from the amateur as most of the professional
writers that we read are able to do this almost as if it were a
required attribute of any accomplished author.

Sam and Merry are getting quite competitive and hot under the collar
in the last posted chapter and I love Pippin as the peacemaker here.
He is very sweet-natured despite his own competitiveness.

The characterisations in this story are quite simply marvellous and so
is the dialogue. The original characters and canon characters both
major and minor are spot-on and everyone interacts in a well
choreographed way that doesn't have the reader wondering what is going
on in the other corner of the field. In fact the action is so fast
paced the reader barely has time to recover from one episode before
another hilarious calamity ensues.

The next chapter looks to be another terrific one and I simply can't
wait! I have in fact been given several hints of where the story will
go and think it will be a total surprise for every one.

I highly recommend that all avid hobbit fans, indeed all Lord of the
Rings fans, watch for the update and make sure you are sitting safely
and comfortably before you begin to read �" it will be another roller
coaster ride!

Title: Where Once My Enemy Stood · Author: Nieriel Raina · Races:
Elves: Fixed-Length Ficlet · ID: 109
Reviewer: Elena Tiriel · 2007-12-30 21:34:00 Score: 3
(Possible spoilers within:)

This is an interesting vignette of how Thranduil refuses to accept
Gimli as his son's friend, and the consequences of his rejection; but
the story ends on a hopeful note.

Title: A Boy and His Lob · Author: Ignoble Bard · Genres: Humor · ID: 162
Reviewer: Rhapsody · 2007-12-30 21:37:30 Score: 5
[spoilers here]

Now first of all, movie Haldir does have a nice ass! Secondly, Legolas
as a adolescent was such a treat, especially with his pouting about
previous pet, no matter if they killed others. And when I read [the
tiny, shoulder-high spider], I wondered if Legolas had been asleep
during geometry classes, because... [shoulder-high] to become the size
of a [war horse]! How big is his room! But alas, the drama prince does
not get what he wants and emotionally he wants to get rid of his
[doilies], but leave it up to his father to turn this in an lucrative
deal.

This piece is a brilliant satire (just be careful what you utter
during a moment of relief), lovely written and yes, I do want to know
how grateful Haldir is up in that talan!


Title: Beginnings · Author: Gwynnyd · Genres: Romance: Other
Fixed-Length Ficlet · ID: 503
Reviewer: Elena Tiriel · 2007-12-30 21:38:11 Score: 3
(Possible spoilers within:)

This is a vignette of Eowyn in the Houses of Healing, in pain from her
Wraithbane wound, but not able to stomach the healing potions of the
Gondorians. In typical shieldmaidenly fashion, she takes her healing
in her own hands.... and shares the better-tasting medicine with Faramir.

Short but sweet, and well done!


Title: Good Rest Ye Merry · Author: Llinos · Genres: Poetry · ID: 798
Reviewer: Marigold · 2007-12-30 21:38:55 Score: 10
I love Llinos' song parodies to bits! This particular one I know
started because she was humming the original carol and the first line
started coming out "God Rest You Merry and Pippin", instead of "God
Rest you Merry Gentlemen". The rest is just sheer genius.

I loved the idea that Merry and Pippin were in fact hitching a lift
off the Uruk-hai rather than being captured and that they should not
worry about Gandalf �" as he'll be back!

The exhortation to Frodo to take it easy and the very gently implied
naughtiness about taking a stroll with Sam, fit in perfectly with the
tone of the humour as does the suggestion that this is more important
than ditching the Ring.

Aragorn does not escape a bit of Mickey taking and I love the idea
that his application to be King is in the mail.

Legolas too gets a little poke although nothing too unkind and any
other implications are purely in the mind of the reader!

Boromir and his departure are dealt with in like funny fashion,
although he is completely redeemed before the close.

The scan and rhythm is perfect and I was amused at the way the writer
extends the monosyllable in the beginning of several of the verses (I
am learning all about poetry, lol) to fit the tune. This is done to
good humorous effect and very reminiscent of the way children sing
carols, putting so much emphasis on these discrepancies.


Title: The Archives Incident · Author: Dreamflower · Genres:
Adventure: Minas Tirith · ID: 38
Reviewer: Linda hoyland · 2007-12-30 21:39:49 Score: 4
This is a delightful story in which poor Frodo's trials are not over
after the destruction of the Ring. The poor Hobbit is interested in
the City archives and goes there with Pippin only to get locked in
with rats for company !

The poor Hobbits get hungrier and hungrier as they await
rescue.Luckily, SAm, Merry, Aragorn,Gandalf and Faramir are all eager
to find them.

I especially enjoyed the glimpse of Aragorn relaxing and the King's
concern for his friends when he knows they are missing.


Title: The Witch-king's Cloak · Author: Radbooks · Genres: Humor:
Parody · ID: 106
Reviewer: Linda hoyland · 2007-12-30 21:42:01 Score: 3
Did you ever wonder how the Witch King reacted to having his cloak
ruined by Aragorn? This delightfully amusing ficlet will tell you the
answer. Watch out Aragorn as the Chief Nazgul likes you nat at all !

Title: Hiraeth · Author: Llinos · Genres: Poetry · ID: 803
Reviewer: Marigold · 2007-12-30 21:43:16 Score: 10
This is a total departure for Llinos as she is predominantly a hobbit
writer within the fandom, though she writes all sorts of themes in her
poetry in real life. Nevertheless she obviously has a good
understanding of elves and this poem is quietly contemplative and
fills the reader with a sweet sadness and understanding of the dilemma
of longing to satisfy an urge that comes from deep within, while not
yet being ready to give up what is known and loved.

The language is so very descriptive and it is easy to imagine the deep
green woodland that the elf inhabits and why he is so reluctant to
abandon that place. At the same time the lure of the sea is immediate
and compelling also.

I very much liked the use of the moon and its drag upon the tides to
describe how the elf feels drawn to take ship and one is left with the
feeling that the elf will yet linger in spite of the call. For how can
he abandon his precious trees?

It is not clear from the poem who the elf is, but I suppose it could
apply to any of the elves who could not quite make the break and I get
the strong feeling that this particular elf is so reluctant to leave
that he has been left behind which is terribly sad.

A lovely poem with excellent rhyming and rhythm, not too long and yet
still conveying much. I especially liked the way it is broken into two
parts, the first dealing with the woodland, with a mere hint of the
problem and the second with the deep yearning that will not cease.


Title: A Game of Chess · Author: Marta · Genres: Drama: Gondor Drabble
· ID: 605
Reviewer: Dot · 2007-12-30 21:46:01 Score: 3
I really liked this! You do a great job of showing how aware Aragorn
is of how Denethor’s mind works �" and how his own strategy here is to
sit back and let Denethor’s pride do its work. I love the slightly
sarcastic tone and that feeling almost of smugness in Aragorn. Very
cleverly done.

Title: First Flight · Author: Isabeau of Greenlea · Times: Mid Third
Age: 2851 - 3017 TA: Other Fixed-Length Ficlet · ID: 513
Reviewer: Elena Tiriel · 2007-12-30 21:46:16 Score: 4
(Possible spoilers within:)

This is a lovely vignette of an eagle family -- not just any family,
but that of the Lord of the Eagles. They have brought Radagast to
their nest to witness a momentous occasion: the first flight of their
two eaglets, one of whose wing Radagast had healed some weeks before.

This is poignant and loving, and we are thrilled to see the outcome.
Very well done!


Title: Sometime Ever After · Author: Dwimordene · Times: Fourth Age
and Beyond · ID: 363
Reviewer: Anoriath · 2007-12-30 21:50:29 Score: 9
Oh, Halbarad. How are we not given more of this man in Lord of the
Rings? Seldom does Aragorn's grimness fall from him with such
suddenness that his joy at seeing Halbarad upon the plains of Rohan is
akin to nothing more than the burst of morning rays upon a sleepless
night. Halbarad is an excellent foil to Aragorn. There is a rare
intimacy in their relationship that allows Halbarad to mirror
Aragorn's depths in a way not even the closeness of the Nine Walkers
can rival.

So, despite the incongruity of circumstances, or perhaps because of
it, Halbarad is an excellent choice of foil in Sometime Ever After.
The past and future pass before Aragorn's inner eye, the choices and
path of his life illuminated through his relationship with Halbarad.
There his kin is, the warmth, companionability, telegraphic speech of
long worn parallel grooves of thought, ever the mirror that reflects
Aragorn's drive, passion and yearning.

Oh my. This piece, among others that you've written Dwim, really make
me long for more of Aragorn and Halbarad, just as Aragorn clearly
yearns for his kin and grieves the whole his loss left behind.

Title: Stone from Above · Author: Thundera Tiger · Races: Men · ID: 284
Reviewer: docmon · 2007-12-30 21:51:00 Score: 4
This story is a terrific gapfiller that gives one possible scenario
for Hama's end. The vivid descriptions of what Hama went through in
the process of dying give the story more than a touch of realism. The
reader will feel Hama's body failing along with him. The story is also
quite a tribute to any soldier who fights to the end and demonstrates
the power of hope in the face of all obstacles. But more than
anything, the story shows Hama's loyalty to his station and mission
and who he was.

Title: Bathing Boromir · Author: Marta · Genres: Humor: Drabble · ID: 645
Reviewer: Dot · 2007-12-30 21:52:24 Score: 3
Very enjoyable! I love how you draw Ioreth �" I certainly wouldn’t want
to be taking her on, even if it was for a chance to glimpse Boromir at
bath-time! It made me laugh, and I was impressed too by how you gave
us an idea of life in the houses of healing what seems like
effortlessly. Very well done.

Title: In the Dark · Author: White Wolf · Genres: Mystery · ID: 484
Reviewer: docmon · 2007-12-30 21:52:44 Score: 5
This is a wonderfully creepy short story that draws you in but doesn't
let you go! It begins very naturally, even casually, with few hints as
to what is to come. The realization of the extent of the problem comes
over the main character and the reader slowly and the reader's
desperation builds with his. The ride continues into panic until it
descends literally into madness. The ending is so perfectly creepy,
knowing that this will go on, you want the story to go as well. How
chilling to know the end will be the same, no matter how the road to
madness may differ.

Title: Osgiliath · Author: Dwimordene · Times: Late Third Age:
3018-3022 TA: Gondor Drabble · ID: 626
Reviewer: docmon · 2007-12-30 21:54:14 Score: 5
An incredibly powerful and moving drabble. I am amazed that one
hundred words can say so much. The writer has really captured the
sense of Boromir's character, who can do nothing other than stand
before the Shadow, in the face of death. I know he would fight
fiercely, with all he had, believing that it would be enough. But he
had to learn the harsh lesson of the Darkness, described so succinctly
with the heart-breaking phrase: ["valor cannot win this war."]
Beautifully crafted, with wonderful rhythm, the drabble ends as simply
as it began. And leaves your heart aching for Boromir and all that he
has lost, and all that he will lose.

Title: Bounty · Author: Marta · Genres: Romance: Drabble · ID: 572
Reviewer: Dot · 2007-12-30 21:58:08 Score: 3
This is gorgeous. It’s a beautiful glimpse of Eowyn’s past and seems
to promise so much for the future as gentle, loving hands caress the
scars that make her who she is. The language is stunning and there’s
so much that can be read into this short piece that it takes my breath
away. Wonderful.

Title: The Green Hill · Author: Baranduin · Races: Cross-Cultural: The
Fellowship · ID: 562
Reviewer: Firya · 2007-12-30 21:59:22 Score: 9
While I always believe there should be some tender moments between
Frodo and Aragorn, this seems to be the perfect setting. There were
many similarities among these two, and an additional hesitance to
fulfill their destiny in the movie version. It might be a bit
hilarious for Aragorn to act so lovesick suddenly, but it’s very
amusing. ‘He folded his arms across his chest and cocked his head at
Aragorn’, what a typical gesture when we had the first glimpse of the
impish hobbit with Gandolf in the beginning of FotR, which reminding
us of the primal carefree side of him.
The scene that Aragorn held Frodo closely is moving, and I just can’t
help loving Frodo’s reaction of Aragorn’s confession and his
reassurance at the end. This ficlet catches the same sensitivity of
them and shows their mutual understanding. Usually Aragorn was the
one, who gave hope to others, but here he had enough trust in Frodo to
expose his uncertainty about the future and maybe his greatest fear to
him, and here the hobbit was the anchor. ‘“Yes,” Frodo said. “I see
it.”’ might not be a kind of foresight, but the reassurance both of
them need the most.

Title: No Harm Will Come of It · Author: Marigold · Times: Mid Third
Age: 2851 - 3017 TA: Other Fixed-Length Ficlet · ID: 456
Reviewer: pippinfan88 · 2007-12-30 22:00:11 Score: 10
This author possesses an amazing ability to give her readers a brief
but lovely glimpse into her wonderful world of hobbits. Her hobbits
are always in character, the "look" and feel of the atmosphere is
fantastic. This is another author who can make me feel fully immersed
into the story, as if I am standing right beside her characters
watching them interact.

This is yet another excellent story with many glimpses of watching
Hamfast soften his heart to his Sam learning his letters. Then we
observe Sam growing into them, teaching his little sister, and then
even Hamfast gets into the spirit of tackling the "riddles" of words.
And we see how knowing their letters affects their lives as time
passes on.

But I want more! In my humble opinion, each of these glimses has a
story attached to it that I believe the author may expound upon when
she gets the time to do so. I should love to read about what exactly
transpired for Hamfast to allow his youngest lass to ride off to Great
Smials. Or the bit about Sam receiving a Yule gift from young Mr.
Frodo, and addressing it to his "friend". I can imagine more to this
story, too, but I'd rather read it from this spendid author! Loved
this wonderful collection of tales from beginning to end!

Title: Aragorn's Moment · Author: docmon · Races: Men: Eriador or
Rivendell · ID: 509
Reviewer: Firya · 2007-12-30 22:08:53 Score: 3
This is a quite believable gap-filler. Though this is more
book-version, but it also resonates well with the revealing of Anduril
scene in RotK. I like this sentence [For the moment, he knew only that
he would not walk this way again.] For me, it sounds definitely like
what a warrior would think before charge.

Title: Respite · Author: Lindelea · Races: Men: Gondor Drabble · ID: 303
Reviewer: Inkling · 2007-12-30 22:10:02 Score: 3
This poignant drabble made me think at once of another young
soldier-scholar: Tolkien said that of all his characters he identified
most with Faramir. I can well imagine the budding author in the
trenches at the Battle of the Somme, finding refuge, like Faramir, in
writing or reading amid the horrors of the front line.

Title: Kindness Rewarded · Author: White Wolf · Races: Elves:
Fixed-Length Ficlet · ID: 494
Reviewer: Elena Tiriel · 2007-12-30 22:10:50 Score: 2
(Possible spoilers within:)

LOL! This casts a new light on that old saying that what goes around
comes around.... Well done!


Title: Duty and Devotion · Author: Marta · Times: Late Third Age:
3018-3022 TA: Other Fixed-Length Ficlet · ID: 411
Reviewer: Elena Tiriel · 2007-12-30 22:18:39 Score: 3
(Possible spoilers within:)

Yes, indeed... why stand on ceremony when the world is literally
falling apart around you? A poignant look at a very difficult decision
by a very honorable man.

Well done!

Title: Osgiliath · Author: Dwimordene · Times: Late Third Age:
3018-3022 TA: Gondor Drabble · ID: 626
Reviewer: Dot · 2007-12-30 22:20:44 Score: 3
This is very powerful. For such a short piece the emotions are
heartwrenching �" the rage, the fear, the overwhelming sense of
futility, and that realisation that Shadow can’t always be banished
with daylight. This is so well written; I’m in awe.

Title: The Long Winter · Author: Baranduin · Races: Hobbits · ID: 159
Reviewer: Inkling · 2007-12-30 22:26:24 Score: 7
This is an enchanting and beautifully written story, with a framing
narrative that captures the style and spirit of Tolkien’s epilogues. I
like Sam's guess that Holman may have heard the story from that master
storyteller Tom Bombadil, although I could as easily imagine it as a
tale that grew up among the hobbits themselves.

Most intriguing to me was the close parallel drawn between the tale
and the Quest of the Ring, and between the respective protagonists.
Could it be that Sam is grafting something of his own experiences onto
his recollection of the folk tale? Such is the way of stories passed
down orally: they change subtly with each telling, according to the
times, tastes, and memory of the teller and the audience.

While directly inspired by "Saving Spring," a Scandinavian legend,
"The Long Winter" contains echoes of so many other tales as well--"The
Last Unicorn," "Spirited Away," "The Lion, The Witch, and the
Wardrobe." The great themes of fairy tales are universal...


Title: The Tides of the World · Author: Raksha the Demon · Times: Late
Third Age: 3018-3022 TA: Gondor · ID: 101
Reviewer: Firya · 2007-12-30 22:26:38 Score: 2
Like this sentence [Each healing has taken a little more of his
strength and had given him back a little more hope]. It’s original and
more encouraging than the concept that healing process is just drain
the healer.

Title: The Eagle's Gift · Author: Raksha the Demon · Genres: Drama:
Minas Tirith · ID: 591
Reviewer: Rhapsody · 2007-12-30 22:28:20 Score: 6
[Two alpha males] indeed! You can almost imagine how those two stags
would fight the other. I found that this story shed a different light
on how those two might have interacted. Denethor feels proud to have
mastered Thorongil in this matter, whereas Thorongil at his turn shows
that Denethor's father entrusted such an important task to him above
his son. Two very complex characters with both their own problems and
you can surely feel that Denethor's room was the last place his
opponent would be, even if it would be to safeguard the line of
stewards. The tension between the characters is immensely palpable and
the story flows along smoothly, this is yet another great story where
Raksha knows how to handle conflict and tension to the utmost limit of
control.

Title: A Mother's Touch · Author: Raksha the Demon · Genres: Humor:
Other Fixed-Length Ficlet · ID: 44
Reviewer: Elena Tiriel · 2007-12-30 22:28:59 Score: 4
(Possible spoilers within:)

Oh, I so like this! Smaug as a young whippersnapper! And his mother
chiding him for getting dirty!

I imagine that dragons never have to put up with their mothers
spitting on their fingers to rub the dirt off their grubby offspring,
unlike children of other species that will remain nameless for their
own protection....

Very funny, Raksha!

Title: Fell Memories · Author: Gwynnyd · Genres: Drama: Other
Fixed-Length Ficlet · ID: 191
Reviewer: Anoriath · 2007-12-30 22:30:47 Score: 6
For all that it is so dark, Fell Memories is one of my favorite of
Gwynnyd's writings. Aragorn's comment about the Nazgul and their
nature, and his discomfiture at the memories of them could easily be
passed over, but for the later revelation of Aragorn's nature as the
hardiest of Men of the current Age. Trying to capture that kind of
terror is a challenge, one that I think that Gwynnyd met admirably.

Gwynnyd portrays Aragorn's physical and mental strength in the
tenacity with which he endures his tortures and humiliations. So, it's
with a wrench that I experience his moments of despair, that [love and
eminence] elude him. It's that contrast, the wearing down of a man
whose force of will allows his survival under extreme circumstances
that, I think, effectively captures the terror of the Nazgul.

Title: End Times · Author: annmarwalk · Genres: Drama: Gondor Drabble
· ID: 702
Reviewer: Dot · 2007-12-30 22:31:19 Score: 3
This is very well done. You’ve really captured the sense of urgency,
of unstoppable events unfolding, of chaos, bewilderment and
desperation. That last line made me smile, even as it sent a chill
down my spine. Really, great job.

Title: A Truth Universally Acknowledged · Author: annmarwalk · Genres:
Humor: Gondor or Rohan · ID: 556
Reviewer: Inkling · 2007-12-30 22:34:06 Score: 3
A charming blend of Tolkien and Austen, with a touch of G. B. Shaw
thrown in...Boromir in this reminds me not only of Darcy, but of a
cantankerous Henry Higgins as well. The bantering among the cousins is
great fun!

Title: Day and Night · Author: Peredhil lover · Genres: Drama: Youth ·
ID: 190
Reviewer: Radbooks · 2007-12-30 22:35:35 Score: 8
A thoroughly enjoyable story. As I mentioned in a review of one of her
other stories, Peredhil Lover does an excellent job with all of her
characters and this story is no exception. This was the first story of
hers that I'd read that had Glorfindel in it, and as he is my favorite
elven character I was glad to see him portrayed so very well. He is
both a stern, strong elven warrior and a laughing, kind elven friend
to those in his care, which is how the books portray him.

Elladan is still having a hard time showing his love for Estel; he so
wants to protect himself from being hurt that he tries to keep the
young man at a distance and almost refuses to see the good qualities
Estel has. But over the course of this story, Elladan comes to see the
truth worth of this man who will be king someday and perhaps it will
lead to a new openness in their relationship - I hope so!

There is a nice amount of tension in the story; both between the
characters and then with just the action in the story itself - with
the trolls, etc.

It is a very good story and one I can recommend without reservation.
Thanks for sharing this with us.

Title: Where There's Life, There's Hope (and in need of vittles) ·
Author: annmarwalk · Genres: Drama: Gondor Drabble · ID: 463
Reviewer: Dot · 2007-12-30 22:37:19 Score: 3
Oh wow! I love this! My heart went out to Aragorn as he suffers along
with those he tries to heal �" and then comes this wonderful sign of
life and normality. What a comfort that warm, familiar scent must have
been. This is wonderful.

Title: The Right Choice · Author: Linda hoyland · Races:
Cross-Cultural: Drabble · ID: 437
Reviewer: Radbooks · 2007-12-30 22:41:24 Score: 2
A touching drabble that tears at your heart when you consider what
Arwen gave up to stay in Middle-earth. Very nicely done!

Title: From Evil to Sorrow · Author: Elfique · Genres: Drama: Second
Age or Earlier · ID: 781
Reviewer: Rhapsody · 2007-12-30 22:42:43 Score: 4
[spoilers]

Elfique writes a chilling account of the sack of Eregion and the cost
of lives that came with it. This use could use some touches of a
proof-reader to filter out some grammar mistakes for example,
nonetheless, you feel swept away by the action and emotions of this
piece: it simply draws you into the story. Then the waiting starts
before despair claims another life and it leaves me to wonder what
will become of this orphan, now bereft of his parents. This piece is
short, but it makes up for its intensity. It is nice to know that
there is a sequel. :)

Title: The Yuletide Festival Feast Song · Author: Llinos · Genres:
Poetry: With Hobbits · ID: 802
Reviewer: Marigold · 2007-12-30 22:45:06 Score: 9
Llinos always manages to come up with different things and this is no
exception. Also, not that I am complaining, I have to wonder why she
makes things so difficult for herself? A list of festive food in rhyme
would be nice enough, but to do it in alphabetical order and manage to
find a food for every letter must have been a tall order. I hadn't
even heard of some of the foods that she had managed to come up with!

But she is an author that really likes to challenge herself and to do
things outside the norm, never one to take the easy way. I am
constantly impressed with her drive to improve her writing and to go
above and beyond what most authors would attempt, myself definitely
included!

The result is quite amusing, though I found it a bit hard to read at
first, but it is certainly worth persevering and by the second reading
I found myself getting into the rhythm of it.

A jolly fun-packed romp through a hobbit menu is a pleasant diversion
and I can easily visualise Merry and Pippin standing on a table with a
great long scroll of a list, singing out their extensive menu to
cheers and jeers from an appreciative audience. I won't even bother to
say that it makes me sooo hungry every time that I read it!


Title: A Useful Skill · Author: EdorasLass · Genres: Humor: Children ·
ID: 46
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2007-12-30 22:47:23 Score: 2
I love all the reactions in this. They are all so true to
character--Faramir, Denethor, and Nanny!

Title: Inroads · Author: Raksha the Demon · Races: Men: Other
Fixed-Length Ficlet · ID: 45
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2007-12-30 22:47:52 Score: 4
I love this. We see the Gondorian pride in pure blood which has marred
its history rearing its ugly head in the haughtiness of these ladies
Eowyn must face. And yet, there is another pride at work here, pride
in the way evil was resisted and overcome. I found myself proud of
Eowyn's keeping her composure when faced with disapproval--but I was
even more proud of the young OFC who sought to break down the
barriers. Beautifully done, and I found myself wanting to know more of
that child.

Title: Death of Hope · Author: Linda hoyland · Genres: Romance:
Drabble · ID: 618
Reviewer: Radbooks · 2007-12-30 22:47:53 Score: 2
A sad, yet moving look at Aragorn's death from Arwen's point of view.
It's very well done and packs a lot into a drabble. I think it
captures Arwen's thoughts very well.

Title: Romancing the Smut · Author: Llinos · Genres: Poetry: With
Hobbits · ID: 797
Reviewer: Marigold · 2007-12-30 22:47:58 Score: 10
Llinos actually wrote this to settle an argument and show me how easy
it is to get laughs by just being smutty. I think the result was
really funny though so I suppose it proved her point.

Nevertheless, I persuaded her to let this poem go forward for the
MEFA's as I thought it a worthy piece. I liked the fact that Merry was
the one trying to be serious and pen a romantic love poem to Eowyn and
that it was Pippin who was being irreverent and interjecting with
smutty lines.

The great humour is the way Pippin likes to supply the last line and
is obviously constantly jogging Merry's train of thought and that this
apparently ends up in the poem. One has to hope that it never actually
got sent to Eowyn! Although I would really like to read THAT scene!

I think what I also liked about it was that although it was just a
spoof piece to prove a point, it is still very much in character and
even though our hobbits are grown ups at this point, I can see shades
of their past together with Merry trying to do things right and Pippin
constantly throwing a spanner in the works with impish behaviour and
general naughtiness!

It also rhymes and scans surprisingly well, as I know it was knocked
out in a very short time and that Llinos never even intended to post
it anywhere. It was only my insistence that made her do it!


Title: Making the best of a bad situation · Author: Hai Took · Races:
Hobbits: Gapfiller · ID: 535
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2007-12-30 22:48:06 Score: 3
Poor Pippin--the journey from Weathertop to Rivendell must have been a
nightmare to Frodo's loved ones, but Pippin, worried that his own fear
and grief will be a hindrance, tries to hide his feelings.
Fortunately, Merry is perceptive...

Title: Mighty among both Elves and Men · Author: Tanaqui · Times:
Multi-Age: Fixed-Length Ficlet · ID: 606
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2007-12-30 22:48:20 Score: 2
This drabble set, a series of snapshots from the life of Elrond,
showing his interaction with the famous of three ages, is very well
concieved and executed.

Title: An Expansion of the Family Influence · Author: Auntiemeesh ·
Times: Early Third Age: 1-2850 TA · ID: 819
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2007-12-30 22:48:38 Score: 3
We are given one brief and tantalizing sentence about the founding of
Buckland and Brandy Hall, and the Oldbucks becoming the Brandybucks.
Auntieemesh comes up with an intriguing explanation of just how and
why Buckland was colonized.

Title: Fissures · Author: Thundera Tiger · Races: Dwarves · ID: 804
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2007-12-30 22:48:59 Score: 3
This is a interesting glimpse into how the other Dwarves might view
Gimli's friendship with Legolas, and the very subtle signs they would
see that show them how that friendship has affected the Dwarf. Very
well concieved and executed, and I really like the Dwarf OC who is
making the observations.

Title: The Inner Light · Author: Rhapsody · Genres: Drama: Elves in
Later Ages · ID: 236
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2007-12-30 22:49:13 Score: 3
What a very interesting idea of who and what Erestor was, and also of
what happened to Maglor! I have only the barest notions of The
Silmarillion--enough to follow what Rhapsody began to imply with the
first beginnings of this beautifully written story. Very lyrical and
emotional!

Title: Love Story · Author: Gandalfs apprentice · Genres: Humor: Other
Fixed-Length Ficlet · ID: 273
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2007-12-30 22:49:36 Score: 2
*chuckle* I love the way the children dramatize the stories Bilbo has
told them! And Bilbo's response was priceless.

Title: Adolescence · Author: Larner · Races: Cross-Cultural: Gondor ·
ID: 143
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2007-12-30 22:49:49 Score: 3
I love the friendship shown here between Sam's daughter and Aragorn
and Arwen's daughter--and the sort of "adventure" they get up to seems
just right for their age. A very fun story.

Title: The Bearing of Burdens · Author: Larner · Races:
Cross-Cultural: Gondor · ID: 792
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2007-12-30 22:50:04 Score: 2
A very thought-provoking conversation between Sam and Faramir, in
which we see the respect the two have for one another. Very insightful
observations on Sam's part.

Title: Death of Hope · Author: Linda hoyland · Genres: Romance:
Drabble · ID: 618
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2007-12-30 22:50:29 Score: 1
Arwen's grief at losing her husband is beautifully explored here!

Title: Measures of Time · Author: Raksha the Demon · Genres: Romance:
Gondor · ID: 50
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2007-12-30 22:50:53 Score: 3
Eowyn accepts the passing of time with both rue and grace. It is so
good to see Faramir/Eowyn at this stage of their lives, where the
differences between the Rohirric blood of the Princess and the
Numenorean blood of the Prince have cause him to show his age much
less than she. But it is beautiful to know that he, at least, can see
no difference at all.

Title: He Came To Meet Me · Author: sophinisba solis · Genres: Romance
· ID: 33
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2007-12-30 22:51:07 Score: 3
A number of writers have shown Diamond of Long Cleeve and Pippin
having a certain foreknowledge of their meeting and falling in love,
but I don't believe I have ever seen it done with such subtlety. The
language is at the same time dreamy and evocative, and earthy and
sharp. This is just beautiful, really!

Title: Harvest Bonfire · Author: Cuthalion · Genres: Romance · ID: 667
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2007-12-30 22:51:22 Score: 3
Cuthalion's OFC Lily Proudfoot has been in many of her stories--in
this one, she proves to be the prop and stay of an exhausted Rose. I
love the take charge way she helps out the young parents, enabling
them to some time alone.

And the Rose/Sam moments are both sensual and beautiful!

Title: Watching and Waiting · Author: Llinos · Genres: Poetry: With
Hobbits · ID: 796
Reviewer: Marigold · 2007-12-30 22:51:38 Score: 10
This is a wonderful set of what is basically two poems, one echoing
the other, the first one spoken by Pippin to Merry in the Houses of
Healing after he falls under the spell of the Black Breath and then
Merry to Pippin as he waits desperately for him to recover from his
troll squashing accident.

Neither hobbit is sure that the other will return to him and each
sends out a desperate plea for the others survival. They make every
promise that they can think of to try and bring their cousin back from
the brink of death, so much so, that it also paints a poignant picture
of their childhood together.

Llinos has a fantastic understanding of how to keep it simple,
especially in her poetry, and in doing so packs far more of a punch
than other writers that are more verbose. Deep emotions, such as those
that Merry and Pippin are each undergoing as they watch and wait and
hope against hope for the other to recover, are beautifully expressed
with an enormous depth of feeling. At the same time, the words are
uncomplicated and straightforward, in such a quiet understated way
that hobbits might really speak them, so that the impact of the
emotion is even greater.

I especially liked the way the verses mirror each other and made me
wonder if it was a verse that they had played with in their childhood,
particularly because of the use of childish words. My favourite idea
though is that perhaps Merry had subconsciously heard Pippin's version
while he was lying under the Black Breath in the Houses of Healing and
later sang his own version of the poem to help Pippin recover at
Cormallen.

The closing lines in particular are heart-rending and, even though we
know the outcome, bring a tear to the eye, every time that I read these.


Title: A Suitable Tribute · Author: EdorasLass · Genres: Drama · ID: 474
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2007-12-30 22:51:41 Score: 3
Such a simple and heartfelt tribute to the King who had saved them
from darkness. I love the way her beloved was so supportive of her
decision, and I am very sure that the King was impressed with her
sacrifice.

Title: None may live now as they have lived · Author: Tanaqui · Times:
Late Third Age: 3018-3022 TA: Other Fixed-Length Ficlet · ID: 687
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2007-12-30 22:51:55 Score: 2
This conversation between Arwen and Aragorn was so perfect I could
hear and see it playing out in my head! The author especially had
Arwen's voice just right! Beautiful!

Title: A...Like An Antagonistic Arwen · Author: Linda Hoyland/Raksha
the Demon CoAuthors · Genres: Humor: Other Fixed-Length Ficlet · ID: 758
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2007-12-30 22:52:09 Score: 3
This prompt from Back to Middle-earth Month's alphabet challenge was a
hard one, but the authors came up with exactly the sort of thing that
would have raised Undomiel's ire: a slur to her beloved.

Title: Rain on the Downs · Author: Breon Briarwood · Races: Hobbits ·
ID: 794
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2007-12-30 22:52:30 Score: 2
At first I thought this was AU, but was soon surprised by the twist at
the end! Very neatly done!

Title: Thyme is a great healer · Author: Tanaqui · Times: Fourth Age
and Beyond: Drabble · ID: 723
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2007-12-30 22:52:49 Score: 2
Yes, time or "thyme" may heal old griefs, but they will never be
forgotten. I really like this moment between Sam and Faramir--I think
in many ways they had a lot in common.

Title: Adolescence · Author: Larner · Races: Cross-Cultural: Gondor ·
ID: 143
Reviewer: Radbooks · 2007-12-30 22:53:00 Score: 5
This is a very fun short story that any parent, or aunt or anyone that
deals with young people can relate to. Aragorn's and Sam's daughters
are tired of the rules that surround them and find a way to escape
them for an afternoon. Aragorn and Sam track them down and, I think,
have fun doing so. It's nice to play 'Ranger' for a time.

I really enjoy stories set in the Fourth Age and Larner's original
characters are all very well-drawn as are the settings in Minas
Tirith. The adventure itself seems highly plausible and it was fun
following the girls around the market.

Thanks for sharing!

Title: Of Dragons and Manicures · Author: Llinos · Genres: Humor · ID: 714
Reviewer: Marigold · 2007-12-30 22:53:35 Score: 10
[Spoilers]

This author excels in coming up with plots that are out of the
ordinary and I am so envious of that talent! I am also envious of her
apparently effortless ability to write stories that are so
side-splittingly hilarious! Apparently Frodo and his faithful
companion Samwise had many adventures before the Quest and this is one
of them; and a very funny and entertaining one it is!

This out of the ordinary tale is a most excellent and funny
story-within-a-story! I love the way that this adventure begins, with
the witty list of Frodo Baggins's many and varied skills, including
[how to distinguish a decent red wine from cheap, fancy-labelled
plonk]! Definitely a skill that a worthy and well bred young
gentlehobbit simply must have. The nod to film-Frodo's nail biting was
very funny, especially as Merry comments on it later in the tale.

There are nods to film and book Sam too, in particular when he
comments ["I don't know as how I'd have managed to carry all those
things with me," Sam gave a puzzled smile. "And all the right things
just as they were needed!"]

I loved all of the nods to The Hobbit and Bilbo's various titles
therein, adapted to Frodo and Samwise and all of them just spot on and
hilarious. Spangla is a perfect lady in her concerns over her weight
and appearance and how she measures up to her rivals and Frodo knows
how to tweak every one of her feared shortcomings so as to bring her
to tears, all part of his nefarious and clever plot to steal her
treasure. The way that Frodo and Sam immobilise the poor dragon had me
in stitches! She never had a ghost of a chance against this pair.

All of the dialogue between Frodo, Sam and the hapless dragon was
filled with wit and delivered with perfect timing. The situation was
just so fantastic that the children hearing it must have been beside
themselves �" as I was myself! I loved the way that Marigold especially
was so caught up in the tale that she was worried over her brother's
foothair.

The characterisations at the end of the story of Bilbo and all of the
younger cousins and Sam and Marigold were just perfect. I loved the
image of Bilbo gathering all of these youngsters around him, weaving
such marvellous tales for their enjoyment and I thank the author for
transcribing it for us. I am hoping that next she will present us with
one starring Merry and Pippin!

Title: ...To the Edge of Night: Seven Tells of a Moment · Author: Elen
Kortirion · Races: Men: Other Fixed-Length Ficlet · ID: 439
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2007-12-30 22:53:46 Score: 3
Even though it is not in canon, this is one incredibly powerful and
moving moment in movie-verse, and the author, in a very effective
series of drabbles, makes us relive it in all its beautiful and
inexorable sorrow.

Title: Some Dark Place · Author: Raksha the Demon · Genres: Adventure:
Fixed-Length Ficlet · ID: 226
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2007-12-30 22:54:22 Score: 3
It seems very clear from the hints in the text that Aragorn had some
experience of the Black Riders before he and the hobbits encountered
them on Weathertop. This is a very plausible, atmospheric and
thrilling first encounter.

Title: For the Dwarves, Gimli · Author: annmarwalk · Races: Dwarves ·
ID: 155
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2007-12-30 22:54:43 Score: 3
Trust a mother to cut to the chase: honor and duty do not mean much to
her compared to having her son safe. Not much is ever written of
Gimli's family--this is the first time I've seen a story of their
reaction to Gimli's joining the Company.

Title: Thoughts About The Old Forest · Author: pippinfan88 · Races:
Hobbits: Gapfiller · ID: 141
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2007-12-30 22:54:57 Score: 3
Once they had all separated after supper, what did the five hobbits at
Crickhollow think of the morning's journey? Pippinfan's speculations
seem all to possible. It's unlikely any of the five got much rest that
night.

Title: The Ground Portends · Author: Thevina Finduilas · Races:
Dwarves · ID: 638
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2007-12-30 22:55:32 Score: 4
It's seldom that we get fic in Gimli's POV, yet this one is just
wonderful. It evokes his Dwarvishness, and his growing change from
*just* a Dwarf into something more. I like his growing friendship with
Eomer, and I love that even after Gandalf's reassurances, he is still
worried about Merry and Pippin. And I love the slightly alien tone of
his conversation with Legolas--it's quite clear these are two
different kinds of people, and that they are also different from Men.
Very evocative gap-filler!

Title: A Kingly Discussion · Author: GamgeeFest · Races: Hobbits:
Post-Grey Havens · ID: 780
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2007-12-30 22:55:54 Score: 4
I love GamgeeFest's Gaffer--she really has him nailed! His reactions
to the King's letter, and those of the listening hobbits are both
touching and hilarious. I love his stout defense of Bilbo and Frodo,
and his explanations as to the why of things were very funny. I loved
the sly reference to Turin, LOL!

And I also loved the many definitions of "cracked"! It reminded me of
Gandalf telling Bilbo of the many definitions of "good morning"!

Title: Tea and Crumpets · Author: Llinos · Genres: Humor: The Shire or
Buckland · ID: 799
Reviewer: Marigold · 2007-12-30 22:55:55 Score: 10
This is wickedly funny! I do worry that folks might be put off by the
implied slash but that is just a short bit at the very end and the
majority of the story is quite simply hilarious Merry and Pippin
humour! So those of you that aren't slash fans should read it anyway,
and don't fear, there is nothing graphic even if you go on to read to
the end and I urge you to do so. If you don't read you are missing
some brilliant interaction between these two!

Both of the hobbits are in wonderful form here and the witty dialogue
flies far and fast as Pippin tries to explain to Merry why there are
simply no crumpets left for their tea.

The descriptions of Pippin's misadventures with the majority of the
lovely fresh crumpets that he bought that morning are very funny
indeed! There are aggressive squirrels involved, mishaps with flames
and beer and an inadvertent absence of the required tea when one
crumpet did in fact turn out unscathed.

Merry listens to all of Pippin's explanations with a growing
fascination that is very funny to see! I love that even after years of
exposure to Pippin's mishaps that he is still caught up in the
explanations and finds them a source of amusement rather than becoming
exasperated. This story is a wonderful exchange between my two
favourite hobbits!


Title: Anchor · Author: Songspinner · Genres: Drama: Elves in Later
Ages · ID: 772
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2007-12-30 22:56:10 Score: 6
This is a lovely story. I'm very fond of stories exploring Legolas'
ties to the other members of the Fellowship, and his reasons for
staying on in Middle-earth and fighting off the sea-longing. In this
one, he is comforting Aragorn's young son, and in the process,
recieves some comfort of his own.

I like the semblance of depth here, of moments untold--for example the
hint that Merry also had suffered particularly hard from perhaps an
anniversary illness of his own at some time in the past--one that took
the King to his side. And I love the implications of the name of one
of Faramir and Eowyn's children--Borogrin. Seems as though he was
named after both Boromir and Pippin.

It's such a tribute to Legolas' strength of will, and of the depth of
his love for his mortal friends, that he is able to stay for them.
Very lovely and nicely told!

Title: Between Crown and Mantle · Author: Marastar · Times: Late Third
Age: 3018-3022 TA · ID: 701
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2007-12-30 22:56:27 Score: 2
A very thought-provoking conversation between Eowyn and Gandalf after
the War has ended. I really appreciate the use of little-known canon
facts to make a point.

Title: One Who Sticks Closer than a Brother · Author: Lindelea ·
Genres: Drama: Incomplete · ID: 417
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2007-12-30 22:56:49 Score: 6
Lindelea's Shire is a rich tapestry of custom and history, and is
filled with some very memorable OCs. While she has the reputation of
writing a lot of Pippin h/c and angst, she has recently turned her pen
towards a couple of her OCs: Pippin's cousins, Ferdibrand and Tolibold.

This story, an immediate sequel to her story "A Matter of
Appearances", puts both hobbits through the wringer. Lin is a mistress
of cliff-hangers, and we are kept holding our breath in a
roller-coaster of emotion. And before it's over, Pippin, Merry and the
High King himself will all have their part to play!

I truly loved the way she managed all the disparate threads of plot
and narrative, without ever letting us lose sight of the important
emotions. A very good and exciting read!

Title: Sent Unto Men · Author: Alassiel · Times: Fourth Age and Beyond
· ID: 346
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2007-12-30 22:57:15 Score: 2
A perfect story for the Season, Earendil is given a new course to
follow, and a very special mission! I really do love this idea--it
makes the most sense of anything.

Title: Stay With Me · Author: pippinfan88 · Races: Hobbits:
Hurt/Comfort · ID: 518
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2007-12-30 22:57:30 Score: 3
I've always thought myself that Esmeralda Brandybuck would have a
special place in her heart for her nephew Pippin, and apparently
Pippinfan thinks so as well--a very sweet story of Pippin's aunt,
helping him deal with some of his post-Quest memories.

Title: On the Banks of the Brandywine (Berilac's Song) · Author:
Dreamflower · Genres: Poetry: With Hobbits · ID: 712
Reviewer: Raksha the Demon · 2007-12-30 22:57:43 Score: 3
Flowers, true love and family, and a nice smial, all on the banks of
the Brandywine - staples of hobbit life praised in this rousing and
very hobbity song. Very well done, Dreamflower!

Title: Romance · Author: Greywing · Genres: Humor: Other Fixed-Length
Ficlet · ID: 375
Reviewer: nau_tika · 2007-12-30 23:00:50 Score: 2
This is a wonderful drabble. The last two lines are really the
highlight of the piece. I loved it.

Title: Some Dark Place · Author: Raksha the Demon · Genres: Adventure:
Fixed-Length Ficlet · ID: 226
Reviewer: Dot · 2007-12-30 23:02:12 Score: 4
Wow. This is amazing. I love how you write Aragorn as someone so human
and as vulnerable to evil as anyone else �" yet we still see his
strength and determination shine through. The horror and terror are
tangible enough to be unsettling and disturbing to the reader, but the
unspoken friendship between the two men anchors it. It’s a perfect
gapfiller and is incredibly powerful and well-written.

Title: Last Light · Author: Ignoble Bard · Genres: Drama · ID: 194
Reviewer: Inkling · 2007-12-30 23:02:53 Score: 4
Gorgeously written and heartwrenchingly painful, "Last Light" is a
tragic reminder that the salvation of Middle-earth came too late for
many. One hopes desperately that [the group of quick ones] upon whom
the crows have been spying will liberate Isengard before the death of
this lone survivor, but the despairing final lines don't suggest a
happy outcome.

The Caspar David Friedrich painting wonderfully enhances the mood of
the tale.


Title: Marking Fours · Author: Raksha the Demon · Times: Multi-Age:
Fixed-Length Ficlet · ID: 1
Reviewer: Radbooks · 2007-12-30 23:03:17 Score: 4
I had to re-read this before reviewing it again because it is so
moving. I just love the way the four drabbles fit so neatly together
in a perfect square, but mostly I love the four glimpses of Faramir's
life. It was such a difficult time for him and yet there is hope bound
up in each little section. You write Faramir so well in everything
you've written and this story is no exception.

Very well done and thanks so much for sharing this with us!

Title: Two Yuletide Carols of the Shire · Author: Dreamflower ·
Genres: Poetry: With Hobbits · ID: 736
Reviewer: Raksha the Demon · 2007-12-30 23:03:44 Score: 2
Here are two hobbit Yuletide carols; very well-written and, even
better, reading as if they were actually written by halflings. A fine
seasonal treat!

Title: Keepsake · Author: Marigold · Races: Hobbits: Vignette · ID: 256
Reviewer: Inkling · 2007-12-30 23:05:24 Score: 2
There was a special bond between Pippin and Gandalf, in both book and
film, and Marigold does a lovely job here of imagining their farewells
at the Grey Havens.



Title: Helping Hands · Author: Llinos · Races: Hobbits: Drabble · ID: 615
Reviewer: Marigold · 2007-12-30 23:06:22 Score: 10
[Spoilers]

These four drabbles are wonderful vignettes of minute incidents in the
hobbits recovery from the trials and injuries they all suffered during
the Quest and after. The love and concern that shines through each one
is delightful and heartwarming from Merry giving Pippin a hand up when
he knows that his cousin has been less than straight with Aragorn as
to his health being up to the ceremony in which he becomes a Knight,
to Pippin spotting Merry's discomfort with his injured sword arm. And
the way that he does it is just wonderful, so attuned to his cousin
that he can spot Merry trying to hide the problems he is having simply
turning the pages of a book, hoping to spare Pippin any worry over him.

In each case the hobbit receiving the help has not asked for
assistance, showing the resilient and stoic nature of their race, but
every time their problem is identified and resolved by those that love
them.

I loved the way Sam berates himself for not spotting sooner that Frodo
is having difficulty with his cutlery and just silently takes over �"
that is just so perfectly Sam. But especially lovely was the scene in
Sam's smial on the anniversary of Frodo's departure. The noisy arrival
of Merry and Pippin contrasts beautifully with Sam's silent greeting
and with not a spoken word said about what the problem is, although
they all three know it well. Merry slamming down the bottle of
emergency Rohirric whiskey brought a lump to my throat. How often must
they have had to comfort themselves after they came home from the
Quest, especially after Frodo sailed.

These are just beautiful and convey so very much in just a few
perfectly chosen words!



Title: The Tides of the World · Author: Raksha the Demon · Times: Late
Third Age: 3018-3022 TA: Gondor · ID: 101
Reviewer: Radbooks · 2007-12-30 23:08:53 Score: 4
This is wonderful... truly moving and I highly recommend it for any
Aragorn fans (like me!). I could just feel Aragorn's utter weariness
after the battle on the Pelennor and a night spent in the Houses of
Healing and yet there was also a sense of hope as the sun rose. He
grieved and yet he was not so overcome that he gave into despair
because he could see that a new day was dawning. Very nicely done.

Title: Beginnings · Author: Gwynnyd · Genres: Romance: Other
Fixed-Length Ficlet · ID: 503
Reviewer: nau_tika · 2007-12-30 23:09:01 Score: 3
It's hard for me to warm up to Eowyn in most fics, but I really like
this one, especially since I sympathize with her weighing which is
worse the pain or the cure. The reference to medicine of Rohan being
different seems perfect to me, too.

Title: Justice · Author: Imhiriel · Genres: Drama: Gondor Drabble ·
ID: 633
Reviewer: Dot · 2007-12-30 23:09:05 Score: 3
I really like this. Justice, indeed. I thought the man flinching at
the harsh sound of metal was a very moving touch and I love how
steadfast Aragorn seems and how genuine too, especially in his closing
wish. You’ve really given substance to the gesture of giving the land
to the slaves. Very well done.

Title: Elements: Dreams of the Dead, Visions of the Living · Author:
pipkinsweetgrass · Genres: Alternate Universe: The Shire or Buckland ·
ID: 202
Reviewer: pippinfan88 · 2007-12-30 23:09:46 Score: 10
Once again I am in awe of this author's writing talents. I suppose I
should say...

*Spoiler Alert*'

here, as I will have difficulty conveying my deepest admiration for
this wonderful story without giving away a few tidbits of the tale. As
I was saying, now that I've read this story two times, I am in
complete awe of Pipkin's unfathomable imagination.

Like many other authors, Pipkinsweetgrass takes the statement the
Professor said about a Took taking a faerie wife in explanation of
their inherently wandering and adventurous ways, and tranforms it into
a fantastc story of epic porportion. And with this author, that is not
a bad thing! Pipkin puts a fresh and different spin on the "faerie
blood" in that she gives the faeries a name, a history, and a place in
Middle-earth, not to mention an indirect relationship with Pippin, and
in some respects, Merry. I liked that bit; some authors who write
about Pippin's foresight sometimes forget about Merry being half Took.

In this tale of tales, this author takes Pippin on a strange and
wondrous adventure through learning about the Sidh and also in
rediscovering his love for Boromir and what that relationship meant to
him. It's a very spiritual journey for Pippin, whose detailed carvings
are full of haunted memories of his days with the Fellowship. I highly
recommend this story and this author, whose works have never
disappointed me.

Title: Tom Cotton · Author: Dreamflower · Races: Hobbits: Post-Grey
Havens · ID: 774
Reviewer: Raksha the Demon · 2007-12-30 23:11:09 Score: 6
[Spoilers]


This is a vivid and unusual gapfiller from a hobbit we usually don't
hear much from in fanfiction - Rosie Cotton's brother Tom. As he
considers his brother-in-law and friend Sam, Tom's thoughts provide a
fascinating look at hobbit nature and the nature of friendship itself.
Tom is beautifully characterised as a steadfast and generous soul,
limited by standard Cotton (and hobbit) provincialism, but also
someone with the imagination to think beyond the borders of what he
has known before. And I though I felt sorry for him, in that Sam has
left his best friend Tom behind; I wasn't too sorry; because a hobbit
of Tom's caliber would be able to make new friends while cherishing
the old.

Excellently and credibly written.

Title: The Heir of the Hill · Author: Lothithil · Times: Mid Third
Age: 2851 - 3017 TA · ID: 675
Reviewer: Inkling · 2007-12-30 23:13:27 Score: 3
Lothithil has added some creative twists and unusual creatures to this
rambling tale of young Frodo's life with Bilbo. I especially liked
Frodo's first hazy, sleep-fogged view of the Elves as he travels from
Buckland to his new home.

An impressive effort, containing easily enough material for several
stories.


Title: The Eagle's Gift · Author: Raksha the Demon · Genres: Drama:
Minas Tirith · ID: 591
Reviewer: Radbooks · 2007-12-30 23:14:27 Score: 6
This is a most enjoyable story by someone who writes Aragorn very
well. I haven't seen her write Denethor often, but she did a masterful
job of him here on his wedding night as he waits for his bride to show up.

I loved the nervousness of Denethor as he waited and then when
Thorongil showed up with the fertility charms... wow! How and why
Ecthelion could do that to his son is beyond me! But the verbal
sparring between the two men was very well done, you captured the
tension perfectly. This is one of my favorite lines:

[Finally Thorongil lifted his chin, a slight but prideful motion.
Anger left his face, and his eyes shone with that fey light Denethor
had seen once or twice before. The Steward had noticed his favorite’s
occasional revelation of sudden, hidden power too, and called it "the
air of Númenor." Captain Thorongil looked more like a challenged king
than a landless warrior.]

I'm sure that Aragorn had a hard time 'cloaking' himself at all times,
his true nature had to come out at times and this describes it very well.

A most enjoyable read and highly recommended. Thanks so much for
sharing this!

Title: To Light the Way · Author: Dot · Races: Elves: With Mirkwood
Elves · ID: 12
Reviewer: Raksha the Demon · 2007-12-30 23:18:46 Score: 3
Intriguing story about the Peredhil twins' visit to Mirkwood and
Thranduil's halls. I really liked the comparisons of Elves and men,
and the wood-elves' lively spirits during times that some would call
very bleak. Thranduil is well-written.

Title: Brothers at Heart · Author: Radbooks · Times: Mid Third Age:
2851 - 3017 TA · ID: 330
Reviewer: nau_tika · 2007-12-30 23:22:20 Score: 3
I was fairly new to Halbarad when I read this fiction. It was a good
expansion on him. I really liked all of these characters. I wish I'd
done more reviewing earlier because I could say alot more about this
story if I had time.

Title: Stopping by Woods · Author: Branwyn · Genres: Drama: Vignette ·
ID: 19
Reviewer: Anoriath · 2007-12-30 23:26:23 Score: 10
Lady Branwyn has a talent for capturing seemingly simple moments,
deceptive in that for all the quietness of the narrative voice, what
is revealed beneath surface is the deepest of emotions: longing, love,
and a tenacity of will and hope born of the connections we have with
others.

What goes unsaid is often more important that what is said in Lady B's
writing, the silence framing the deeper meaning of the pieces she
writes. So it is true of this piece as well.

The sensory details are carefully presented so that a scene of peace
is what is most noticeable. But this contrasts with the echoes of
loss, presenting the reader with an unanswered question: how does one
survive the long weary journey of bereavement? It was both fate and
choice joined that lead to this moment, just as both Faramir and his
brother visited this very crossroads, one gone and the other left
behind to continue on. There are of echoes of pain glimpsed in the
corners of this piece, but Lady B does not allow us to wallow in
despair. Instead we are shown the path by which we might overcome such
a loss, in that Faramir chooses to take a longer view, see himself in
the perspective of time. He visits the road that Boromir once
traveled. He celebrates the present and joys it has to offer, and he
anticipates and accepts his eventual death, knowing that it will allow
him to rejoin those he has lost. And so, honor but do not dwell on the
past. Honor and open yourself fully to what the present has to offer
you. Do not take it for granted, for it is but transient and quickly gone.

Title: Dawning Hope · Author: Radbooks · Genres: Drama: Youth · ID: 498
Reviewer: Raksha the Demon · 2007-12-30 23:27:15 Score: 4
A vivid portrait of the early days of the orphaned Eomer and Eowyn in
Meduseld. I really like the interaction of the kids with their cousin
Theodred, and his kindness toward them; the writer shows, rather than
tells, what a good father he would have made if he had survived the
Ring War. Good characterisation of the children as well; they are
written very credibly and naturally during a period of their lives
that changes from sad to hopeful.

Title: Are You Going to Leave Me? · Author: Llinos · Genres: Drama:
With Merry · ID: 142
Reviewer: Marigold · 2007-12-30 23:28:45 Score: 10
I think that this is a most excellent gapfiller from the film! It's
exciting, angsty and full of hobbity interaction with a good bit of
Fellowship thrown into the bargain. I absolutely hated that Merry was
found on the battlefield and then suddenly there he was on the back of
Eomer's horse riding to the Black Gate!

Pippin's spotting Merry's foot on the battlefield was wonderful - I
hadn't even noticed that detail myself until Llinos pointed it out to
me and I loved that she put it in the story. I loved Pippin's care of
Merry, his cleverness and desperation as he tried to get help and the
scenes in the Houses of Healing were just stunning. Pippin's
desperation to see Merry cared for and his impatience was wonderfully
in character.

The scene in the council was superb! The way that Merry asserted
himself in the council and defended his right to go to the Black Gate
for love of Frodo was so in character and I loved the way that the
others were worried over his going. That it was Eomer that came to his
rescue (in allowing him to put himself in deadly danger!) was
excellent and really solidified for me the affection between the two
of them in the future.

As always, the dialogue was spot on, the interactions between the
characters was perfect and the descriptions just right without
overpowering the action. I'd love it if Llinos just had time to write
more nowadays!





Title: Despair · Author: Silivren Tinu · Genres: Drama: The Fellowship
· ID: 171
Reviewer: nau_tika · 2007-12-30 23:29:48 Score: 3
Good story. I think I read it when you first posted it and I still
hold it as one of the stories that taught me something. I never
considered what Legolas and Boromir had in common until I read it. I
find your final paragraph very chilling. Nicely done!

Title: Blooded · Author: Raksha the Demon · Genres: Drama: Youth · ID: 3
Reviewer: Rhapsody · 2007-12-30 23:29:53 Score: 6
This is a beautiful coming of age piece where Faramir, claims his
rightful place above the others. Many of the new men are brash and try
to overrule their own fears and shaking with brash words, but not
Faramir. I can see in this piece the man who he will become many years
later when he stumbles upon Frodo and Sam. The language of this piece
just fits this character, there is wisdom in his words and a lesson
that he learnt. Still it makes me sad that he could not become what he
wanted, but Raksha writes the basis of the captain he will be. You can
simply sense the emotional growth in this short story. Raksha handles
the internal conflict and emotions quite well, it never feels too
jumbled, and it just flows as her character’s thoughts come to a
conclusion.

Title: Erestor and Estel: Hidden · Author: Pentangle · Genres: Drama:
Youth · ID: 167
Reviewer: Firya · 2007-12-30 23:31:20 Score: 5
I just love this whole series and the deep friendship and love between
Pentangle’s Erestor and Estel. Their banter here was quite amusing and
this ficlet showed us how Erestor cared Estel despite his reluctance
to admission, and a glimpse of the friendship between Erestor and
Glorfindel as a bonus. I can’t help grinning when Erestor pictured ‘a
starving orphan’ vividly in his head, and I must say that Elrond’s
counsellor might had great potential of a painter as well as an
adviser. And what a perceptive boy Estel was! All of these make this
series great piece to reread during the New Year vacation.

Title: Farewell · Author: Vilwarin · Genres: Drama: With Aragorn · ID: 706
Reviewer: nau_tika · 2007-12-30 23:32:06 Score: 1
An aptly named fiction, with a very nice ending.

Title: Good Rest Ye Merry · Author: Llinos · Genres: Poetry · ID: 798
Reviewer: trikywun · 2007-12-30 23:34:46 Score: 10
I'm glad I left this to review until Christmas time, as it is very
seasonal as well as being highly amusing.

I suppose Merry's name is a natural to make into a spoof at Christmas
and this is the starting point for this filk of the famous carol God
Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen. But all of the fellowship characters get a
mention, although sadly not each in their own verse.

But each verse tells a part of the story or at least refers to
something about the character with which everyone is familiar and they
are all dealt with very kindly, merely poking fun at actual events
from the story.

This is a very inventive piece of work and fit well with the original
tune. I was actually singing it out loud before I finished and then
had to go back to the beginning to sing it all through again. Other
people in my house were not as amused as I was, since I don't sing
that well or often and, of course you need to be a Lord of the Rings
fan to get the jokes!

That said, if you are a Rings fan this is definitely one not to miss.
It is very witty and, as is often the case, only poor old Gimli does
not get too much attention, just popping his head up in Legolas's verse.

Everyone else is parodied to good advantage and while it is a joke
song, quite a lot of attention is given to real events from the story.


Title: Missing · Author: conniemarie · Races: Hobbits: Vignette · ID: 731
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2007-12-30 23:35:29 Score: 4
This is filled with beautiful characterizations. Even though the
events as described are movie-verse, the characters are solidly
book-verse, with all the depth and subtlety that implies. I especially
love the description of Pippin as being so intuitive and wise, in
spite of his reputation for foolishness--that's how I've always
thought of him myself.

And I love that we see that all are not only "missing" but "missed". A
wonderful double use of the title.

Title: Still Round the Corner · Author: lbilover · Races: Hobbits:
Post-Grey Havens · ID: 515
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2007-12-30 23:35:47 Score: 3
This is such a lovely leave-taking between father and son; I love
young Frodo's realization that it's necessary that his father go, but
his concern is still filled with love, and quite understandable. And
Sam is perfect in this, determined, as always, and wise.

itle: Hiraeth · Author: Llinos · Genres: Poetry · ID: 803
Reviewer: trikywun · 2007-12-30 23:35:59 Score: 10
I had to look up Hiraeth as I suspected it was Sindarin or something,
but it turns out it is a Welsh word, meaning "longing". This works
very well for the problem faced by an elf who knows he must eventually
leave but just can't bear to drag himself away from the trees and woods.

The poem has a quite sad feel about it and uses very evocative words
to describe the beautiful woodlands and makes you understand why this
elf wouldn't want to go.

Yet you can also understand why the call of the sea is so important to
him and, although he is not so much resisting it as trying to repress
it, it is also understandable how urgent and unremitting the call is
to him.

The rhyme scheme is quite complicated as it is:- a, b, a, c, b, a, b,
a, c, with 'c' having a trochaic foot. This tends to set the poem
apart as elvish as opposed to hobbit, as their poetry is usually more
simplistic and in that way makes it very true to Tolkien's style as he
always managed to keep his poetry completely in the voice of whosoever
was supposed to be writing it. The language too is far more elvish
than any hobbit would use and even if it had not been subtitled as
being about an elf, it would be easy too guess who the speaker was.

I have read others of Llinos's poems and this one is quite different
from the rest that I've seen, but it seems to be totally in character
with elvish culture, from the style to the subject matter.


Title: The Stranger · Author: mistycracraft · Races: Men: Eriador or
Rivendell · ID: 89
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2007-12-30 23:36:05 Score: 3
I am quite sure that is just exactly the first impression Strider must
have given many people. At least Edric was able to learn that maybe
first impressions are not always the best! Good job! Very insightful
and well-written.


Title: Multicultural Interactions · Author: annmarwalk · Races:
Cross-Cultural: Gondor · ID: 18
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2007-12-30 23:36:31 Score: 3
A very sweet encounter between two characters who appear in canon, and
yet about whose personality we know little. Annmarwalk makes it seem
quite likely that these two would find friendship. And even though she
indicates the story's complete, I'd love to see more of these two
together.

Title: Thengling Mighty · Author: Linda hoyland · Times: Late Third
Age: 3018-3022 TA: General Drabble · ID: 420
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2007-12-30 23:36:48 Score: 3
What I love about this is the distinctly Rohirric flavor of the prose,
using alliteration to evoke the poetic traditions of that people. A
wonderful description of that moment of freedom!

Title: Beginnings · Author: Gwynnyd · Genres: Romance: Other
Fixed-Length Ficlet · ID: 503
Reviewer: Raksha the Demon · 2007-12-30 23:36:49 Score: 2
Smoothly written vignette of the ailing Eowyn finding, and giving
comfort. Good use of herb-lore!

Title: The Green Hill · Author: Baranduin · Races: Cross-Cultural: The
Fellowship · ID: 562
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2007-12-30 23:37:02 Score: 3
I love this moment of friendship shown between Aragorn and Frodo--the
language is very evocative of the setting, and the respect and love of
the two friends for one another is beautifully depicted.

Title: Before the Gate · Author: Jay of Lasgalen · Races: Elves:
Fixed-Length Ficlet · ID: 704
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2007-12-30 23:37:16 Score: 2
Yes, this is very like the sort of conversation that Elladan and
Elrohir could have had at that pivotal moment. Together. Always.

Title: In Passing · Author: Lily · Races: Hobbits: Post-Grey Havens ·
ID: 613
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2007-12-30 23:37:38 Score: 4
[spoiler]
I've read more than one story dealing with Pippin's death, and this is
among the most touching. Lily puts much of her own emotion into this
story, and her passion shows. I love the gentleness and tenderness
with which the subject is dealt, and especially that it is *Frodo* who
greets Pippin on the other side.

And the ending, with Elessar seeing that his dear friend is gone was
incredibly touching.

This story is a tear-jerker in a *good* way!


Title: Forcing a Path · Author: Linaewen · Genres: Drama: The
Fellowship · ID: 400
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2007-12-30 23:37:53 Score: 4
This is just what a gap-filler ought to be: a more detailed look at a
small episode in canon, keeping all the characters perfectly *in*
character, and giving us a deeper POV than we are treated to in the book.

I love the way Boromir comes up with the plan, and the dogged way he
and Aragorn follow through, as the author shows us *how* that path was
forged.

And Legolas was just as annoying in this as he was in canon!

Title: Cool Sunlight and Green Grass · Author: SlightlyTookish ·
Races: Hobbits: Post-Ring War · ID: 211
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2007-12-30 23:38:11 Score: 3
At the Black Gate, Pippin's last coherent thought before he was felled
by the troll was a wish to once more have ["cool sunlight and green
grass"]. And then his thoughts fled. But against all expectations, he
survived, and now we get to see his first chance to experience what he
never thought to have again. A very touching ficlet, and as hopeful as
Pippin himself.

Title: Enter the Fourth Age, Hastily · Author: Dwimordene · Times:
Fourth Age and Beyond: Drabble · ID: 140
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2007-12-30 23:38:25 Score: 2
How very Entish! I love the use of the dashes to evoke the language of
the Ents. All of that, to convey one word--both clever and well done!

Title: The Steward's New Clothes · Author: GypsieRose · Genres: Humor:
Gondor or Rohan · ID: 511
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2007-12-30 23:38:39 Score: 2
*snerk!* This is wicked! That clever tailor! I wonder how many of
those garments he actually made himself! I had to giggle at the
weskits, but the ending was deliciously naughty!

Title: Drawing Straight With Crooked Lines · Author: Fiondil · Genres:
Drama · ID: 76
Reviewer: nau_tika · 2007-12-30 23:38:50 Score: 3
Any story where Boromir isnt the bad guy is a good story, but this one
was especially pleasent to read. I imagine his attitude is a bit
unusual. I really liked the atmosphere and wish I had time for a
longer review. I am such a procrastinator!

Title: Bransle Royal · Author: Ribby · Times: Late Third Age:
3018-3022 TA: Gondor · ID: 473
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2007-12-30 23:38:54 Score: 3
This little story of the King dancing incognito with one of his
subjects is adorable--not the least because of the use of an actual
country dance, which lends itself to an easy visualization of the scene!

Title: In Fangorn Forest · Author: Garnet Took · Races: Hobbits: Merry
and Pippin · ID: 260
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2007-12-30 23:39:15 Score: 3
We're told in canon that Merry and Pippin had conversation as they
walked in Fangorn after escaping the Uruk-hai, but not what that
conversation was. This is a very plausible idea of what they might
have talked of at one point.

Title: With No Pity · Author: Elen Kortirion · Races: Villains:
Drabble · ID: 391
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2007-12-30 23:39:28 Score: 2
Oh, this packs a punch! The description is vivid, and the POV entirely
unexpected--very clever and well-executed!

Title: The Yuletide Festival Feast Song · Author: Llinos · Genres:
Poetry: With Hobbits · ID: 802
Reviewer: trikywun · 2007-12-30 23:39:28 Score: 8
Another festive feast from Llinos! This one is all about food �" or
more specifically hobbit food!

As we all know, not only do hobbits love their food, they also love
order and for things to be set out clearly and correctly. Llinos has
done this to great advantage with this song, as it carefully lists
everything a hobbit might eat and also does it in alphabetical order!

It is also very funny. It is hard to imagine a list of food being
amusing and the humour comes mainly from the fact that sometimes the
writer is obviously searching quite hard for something to fit the bill
of fare that also has the right letter!

Nevertheless, she, or rather, Merry and Pippin manage it, very often
with hilarious, albeit slightly unlikely, results!

She carries it off in a frolicky and fun-filled manner and actually
some of the items quite made my mouth water, although some did not
sound quite so appetising. I'm sure the hobbits would eat it all
though, they seem to have a special affinity with food, what with six
meals a day when they can get them. This feast would surely provide
six and then some!


Title: Firelight · Author: Songspinner · Genres: Drama: Ithilien · ID: 817
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2007-12-30 23:39:49 Score: 3
A very nice little set of Cormallen vignettes, centered very
effectively around the theme of "fire" and focussing on the deep
friendships of the Fellowship. A nice blend of book-verse with a few
of the more inspired movie-verse elements tied in.

Title: Living Tales · Author: pippinfan88 · Races: Hobbits: Post-Grey
Havens · ID: 806
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2007-12-30 23:40:05 Score: 3
Such a very possible conversation--Pippinfan has captured the essence
of what JRRT often spoke of, how the heroes found themselves *inside*
a story. I could easily imagine it taking place in Rivendell before
the Quest; and the little epilogue at the end was delightful, bringing
it full circle.

Title: The Wink of an Eye · Author: Linda hoyland · Times: Mid Third
Age: 2851 - 3017 TA: Drabble · ID: 664
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2007-12-30 23:40:28 Score: 2
LOL! Oh dear! Poor Denethor! If Sauron had a sense of humor, then I am
afraid this is probably just the sort of humor he would go in for--and
of course, it suited his purposes as well!

Title: The Weregild · Author: tyellas · Races: Dwarves · ID: 522
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2007-12-30 23:40:43 Score: 2
This is a very clever take on the gifting of at least one of the
Dwaven Rings--I loved the sublety of it.

Title: Erestor and Estel: Hidden · Author: Pentangle · Genres: Drama:
Youth · ID: 167
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2007-12-30 23:40:57 Score: 3
A very sweet and gentle story about unlikely friendship, and the
perceptiveness of an intelligent child. I love the way young Estel has
seen through the gruff exterior, to see that actions often speak
louder than facial expressions.

Title: A Rohan Tapestry · Author: shirebound · Races: Hobbits:
Hurt/Comfort · ID: 96
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2007-12-30 23:41:13 Score: 7
Shirebound usually specializes in gentle hurt-comfort centered around
Frodo. But in this story, although Frodo does come in for a certain
share of well-deserved comfort, he also gives it, as do others, to Merry.

I've often thought how difficult the funeral of Theoden must have been
for Merry--we are told in canon of his bitter weeping at Theoden's
grave, and of how he had borne a serious demeanor as the old king's
esquire through all the long miles to Edoras. It's clear he really did
love the old Man like a father, in spite of their short acquaintance.
Shirebound explores the ways in which he is taken care of by his
loving kin and friends during this difficult period.

His grief leads him to a recurrence of the Black Breath, and Aragorn
and all the Fellowship rally around him. And along the way, we see
much of Rohan and its people. It's very easy to see why the ties
remained so strong between the Shire, and the Kingdoms of the South.

Very well done, with Shirebound's usual tender care!

Title: Yours to command · Author: Lialathuveril · Genres: Romance:
With Rohirrim · ID: 129
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2007-12-30 23:42:40 Score: 2
This is one of the more unusual of Eomer/Lothiriel romances, with a
very unique Lothiriel, it is as much adventure as it is romance, with
a number of exciting twists and turns.

Title: The Love of Lore · Author: Oshun · Races: Men: Gondor · ID: 271
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2007-12-30 23:42:55 Score: 2
Yes, indeed, this is the lad who loved tales and books more than the
sword. How lovely to learn that years later, his own child takes after
him!

Title: Cophetua · Author: Jael · Genres: Romance · ID: 242
Reviewer: Súlriel · 2007-12-30 23:43:04 Score: 3

I found this to be a beautiful, hauntingly tragic, but also incredibly
fulfilling romance. I love the themes of second chances, seizing the
moment and to hel* with conventions. Jael's Thranduil, as always, is
wonderfully done with all the layers and nuances I've come to expect
from this series.

Title: Boys Will Be Boys · Author: annmarwalk · Genres: Humor:
Children · ID: 555
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2007-12-30 23:43:10 Score: 3
This is so much fun--a young Boromir, willful and proud, just as he
will be when he grows up. But he's still a boy, and Mag the Cook (who
happens to be a perfectly *lovely* OC) still knows the way to a
youngster's heart!

Title: Concerning the Curious Healing Properties of Soup · Author:
pipkinsweetgrass · Races: Cross-Cultural: The Fellowship · ID: 571
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2007-12-30 23:43:34 Score: 3
Chicken soup--the universal remedy; even if it's not *quite* chicken,
even if it's not quite mother's recipe! This lovely Fellowship fic has
eight of its members rallying round to provide the sovreign cure to
Pippin, who has developed a cold. Very fun, and like all of Pipkin's
stories, insightful and filled with love as well.

Title: Shells · Author: pipkinsweetgrass · Races: Cross-Cultural: With
Pippin · ID: 506
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2007-12-30 23:43:48 Score: 3
This sweet story was originally part of a group story, in which
various persons told tales to a laid-up Pippin. In this one Ioreth
coaxes the young knight into trying a new food by telling him a story
of Boromir and Faramir's childhood. I love the voice Ioreth is given here!

Title: The Inner Light · Author: Rhapsody · Genres: Drama: Elves in
Later Ages · ID: 236
Reviewer: Radbooks · 2007-12-30 23:43:53 Score: 5
A very moving story that really tugged at my heart. I really enjoyed
the character, Erestor and I've never read a back-story like this for
him before so it made it interesting, though bittersweet. It was hard
to see him stay behind as all of the rest of the inhabitants of
Imladris left Middle-earth while he stayed behind in what might have
been a fruitless search for Maglor.

I was pleased that there was reconciliation in Aman between the
various elves and that Erestor was finally reunited with his wife and
children. After all of that time, he richly deserved it!

Thanks for sharing the story with us.

Title: Last Light · Author: Ignoble Bard · Genres: Drama · ID: 194
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2007-12-30 23:44:03 Score: 3
A sad story from the unique POV of one of Saruman's victims--a
nameless tree at the edges of Fangorn, watching the encroaching
darkness in sorrow and pain. Beautiful and evocative language, in
spite of the horrible theme of destruction.

Title: Watching and Waiting · Author: Llinos · Genres: Poetry: With
Hobbits · ID: 796
Reviewer: trikywun · 2007-12-30 23:44:35 Score: 10
I loved this awesome set of complimenting poems and I don't know that
I have ever seen anything done in quite this way, with each poem so
similar and yet so different, each one perfectly adapted to the
speaker and so obviously belonging together. This is a perfect way to
highlight the extreme closeness between the two characters of Merry
and Pippin, who it is difficult to imagine singly and not as a pair.
I'd like to see her do something similar for Frodo and Sam.

The rhyme scheme is simple and lacking in complexity, which works
well, as a more elaborate pattern would have been distracting from the
impact of the desperation that first Pippin and then Merry are feeling
as they wait, trying not to despair. The content of the verses really
emphasised the shared childhood and the love between the two of them,
not to mention the devastation that each would feel were he to lose
the other. It would be totally unthinkable for these two to be apart!

These poems are so filled with emotion and longing, despite the simple
language that the author has quite rightly chosen. Using elaborate
words and concepts would not be suitable for these two, who are simple
hobbits speaking from their hearts.

Simple but powerful, a very fitting style for the subject matter.

Excellent work!


Title: Triumphal Entry · Author: Garnet Took · Times: Late Third Age:
3018-3022 TA: Gondor · ID: 244
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2007-12-30 23:44:36 Score: 3
Garnet Took made good use of the quotation which was her prompt for
this challenge story. I loved the Pippin's eye view of the celebrating
citizens of Minas Tirith--he's very observant in realizing how long
it's been since any of them had reason to rejoice! And it is quite
solidly book-verse, as well. Nicely done!

Title: The Tenant from Staddle · Author: Larner · Races:
Cross-Cultural: Incomplete · ID: 408
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2007-12-30 23:44:59 Score: 4
Larner has created a rich social background for her version of the
Shire. One of the things she has often alluded to is that when the
King ennobled Frodo and Sam at Cormallen, he granted them land for
their maintenance. What happens if Frodo suddenly finds himself with a
completely unexpected tenant on one of those properties?

This story is loaded with some of Larner's most fascinating and
three-dimensional OCs, and I am very much looking forward to the story
continuing!

Title: Thoughts in the Night · Author: Pearl Took · Races: Hobbits:
Hurt/Comfort · ID: 479
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2007-12-30 23:45:21 Score: 3
While Merry was recovering from his bout of the Black Breath in the
Houses of Healing, a solicitous Pippin watches out for him. But who
will watch out for Pippin, who's also been traumatized by the siege.
Pearl introduces a sympathetic OC, who helps Pippin through the night.

Title: Of Dragons and Manicures · Author: Llinos · Genres: Humor · ID: 714
Reviewer: trikywun · 2007-12-30 23:45:41 Score: 10
This story was great fun! At first I thought that it was a sort of
parody and loved it at the end when I realised just what was going on!
What a wonderful surprise!

The premise of this wsa very clever and I adored all of Frodo and
Sam's many titles which were a wonderful take-off on Bilbo's own
titles �" and coming to the end of the story I understood their purpose
and loved them even more, as it was as if Bilbo was going out of his
way to make Frodo and Sam a part of a continuation of his own
adventure which they must have clamoured to hear about quite often. I
like the idea that Bilbo might get a little tired of repeating his own
adventure and so decided to put the children into a sequel of sorts!

All of the bits with Spangla were terrific and Frodo really does know
his way around when it comes to manipulating dragons. I think that it
must be his Baggins blood. I couldn't help seeing Frodo as played by
Elijah Wood manicuring her nails!

Bilbo has a wonderful imagination (and it goes without saying that so
does this author) and I love his portrayal here as the kindly old
uncle keeping the young ones amused and at the same time expanding
their sheltered hobbit-horizons! It's no wonder that they all grew up
to be adventurous after hearing stories like these at Bilbo's knees!


Title: Darkness on a Bright Morning · Author: Hai Took · Races:
Hobbits: Hurt/Comfort · ID: 807
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2007-12-30 23:46:02 Score: 3
Poor Merry! He has done something he thinks is unforgiveable, only to
find himself forgiven. Hai does a wonderful job here in depicting the
relationship between Merry and Pippin. I love stories in which Pippin
is the comforter rather than the comforted. This is one of Hai's best
stories.

Title: No Harm Will Come of It · Author: Marigold · Times: Mid Third
Age: 2851 - 3017 TA: Other Fixed-Length Ficlet · ID: 456
Reviewer: Rhapsody · 2007-12-30 23:46:14 Score: 4
[tiny spoilers]

I really loved this drabble series as from each piece we could see the
progress in how Sam learnt to read, to pass it on to his sister and
quietly & perhaps unknowingly to Sam himself, his father as well. I
simply loved this bit:

[Burning the furniture weren’t allowed �" Ham had puzzled out that
notice himself. Better to freeze than end up in the Lockholes. Sam’s
books would burn, but they were his only company now, a comfort even
in the cold.

And they were all Ham had left of his lad.]

This just carries so much sadness and longing in Hamfast words and
Marigold so poignantly tells us how much his son means to him. This is
a beautifully and quiet piece about the Gamgee family, starring
Hamfast. Beautifully done Marigold!


Title: To This My Love Hath Come At Last · Author: Roh_wyn · Genres:
Romance: Incomplete · ID: 699
Reviewer: Marta · 2007-12-30 23:47:47 Score: 6
There's an awful lot to love about this story, but I think what first
got me was the pacing. I very rarely read read longer stories
precisely because I have a short attention span, but the chapters in
this story are just long enough to have some meat on them without
taking an undue amount of effort to plow through. There's a lot of
invention but the story still feels as canonical as any Boromir
romance could. The political details in the first chapter, for
instance: as far as I know they aren't derived from the books, but
they seemed consistent with the political situation in the Ring War,
and had the dynamics down for real-life meetings of this sort. It's a
convincing read, and I'm looking forward to see how it develops.
Nicely done.

Title: Falling Into Shadow · Author: Marigold · Races: Cross-Cultural:
Incomplete · ID: 205
Reviewer: trikywun · 2007-12-30 23:48:54 Score: 7
This was so good! A lovely storey and I am so disappointed that there
isn't more of it and I hope that it will be continyed soon!

I hadn't given much thought to Merry and the Black breath other that
what happened to him in the Pelennor but the author is exactly right,
even just at the Ford (I had to go back and count) he had been exposed
to it three times so by the time he faced the Witch-king he must have
been really susceptible. I know it's rather bloodthirsty of me but I
find that appealing because it lends even more to Merry's heroism when
he tried to help Eowyn.

I liked the way that he managed to get somewhere private before he
collapsed, somehow keeping himself going so that no one would be
distracted from Frodo. Pippin's worry over him is written really well!

I liked Glorfindel in this story and the way that he interacted with
the hobbits and his hints that he knows a hobbit himself! I also liked
his thought that Merry having anything to do with his own prophecy was
ridiculous!

I'm hoping for an update very soon!


Title: Death of Hope · Author: Linda hoyland · Genres: Romance:
Drabble · ID: 618
Reviewer: Dot · 2007-12-30 23:49:35 Score: 3
I love the honesty of this �" that the one leaving seems to face it
with more strength and trust than the one left behind. This is a very
insightful glimpse of both characters and that last line is
particularly moving.

Title: Honor Unabated · Author: Linaewen · Races: Men: Gondor · ID: 570
Reviewer: Marta · 2007-12-30 23:50:39 Score: 3
This is a hard moment to write, but Linaewen tells it well. I
particularly like the characterization of Denethor, who comes across
as nicely nuanced. Good work, from one Denethor-lover to another; you
really captured him.

Title: The Witch-king's Cloak · Author: Radbooks · Genres: Humor:
Parody · ID: 106
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2007-12-30 23:51:06 Score: 2
This just made me giggle. Sometimes we need a bit of silliness, and
it's fun to see those fearful Bad Guys skewered!

Title: Green · Author: annmarwalk · Times: Late Third Age: 3018-3022
TA: Gondor Drabble · ID: 461
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2007-12-30 23:51:20 Score: 2
A perfectly executed drabble: the last line filled with double
meaning, as we learn the meaning of the scent of athelas to Faramir.

Title: Counsel · Author: Alassiel · Races: Cross-Cultural: Gondor ·
ID: 292
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2007-12-30 23:51:34 Score: 3
A very interesting conversation, and made plausible by the use of
JRRT's own devices--I found the advice given very straightforward and
true, and only wish that RL leaders could have such good advice!

Title: No Harm Will Come of It · Author: Marigold · Times: Mid Third
Age: 2851 - 3017 TA: Other Fixed-Length Ficlet · ID: 456
Reviewer: trikywun · 2007-12-30 23:52:09 Score: 10
[spoilers]

I like writing drabbles myself and I know how very hard it is to write
even a halfway decent one. This are just superb, and I hope someday
that I can begin to write such good ones. The author somehow manages
in each drabble to get all of the emotion and information that we
would need to have in a full chapter of a longish story.

This is a very nicely done set of drabbles that starts out with the
gaffer making a momentous decision when he decides to let his Sam
learn his letters. But in the end it proves to be not so bad.

He even allows Sam to teach his little sister Marigold to read and
write as well and the whole family enjoys hearing Sam reading tales to
them about all sorts of fanciful things that they didn't know about
before.

As the drabbles progress the writer takes us right through the time
span of the Quest but we see things that are going on in the Shire and
how he can make out some of the words posted in the orders by the evil
men.

He has to send Marigold away to Tookland, even though he didn't want
his children to go travelling, but he knows she will be safer there.

In the end the poor gaffer is left with no wood to burn on his fire,
but rather than burn Sam's books, which would at least keep him warm
he starts trying to learn to read them himself, using his slight
knowledge of letters learned from his children and his memory of the
stories Sam used to read.

I really liked the part at the end when he gets a letter from the king
and, although Frodo offers to read it to him, decides he can manage to
read it himself.



Title: Circumstantial Heroes · Author: Gwynnyd · Genres: Drama: Minas
Tirith · ID: 684
Reviewer: Raksha the Demon · 2007-12-30 23:53:21 Score: 5
[spoilers]



An outstanding story from an excellent writer - here, the newly
crowned Aragorn grapples with kingly responsibility and the
intricacies of power over other people's fates. Contrasts are made
between two servants - one who showed his devotion to Denethor by
following the orders that would have killed Faramir as well as
Denethor himself; and another who truly looks out for those in his
care even beyond the scope of orders. Add to the mix, a drunken Pippin
and the question of Beregond's punishment; and Aragorn has a full
plate; and the readers have a feast.

Title: Magical Mystical Cave · Author: Lily · Races: Hobbits: Children
· ID: 213
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2007-12-30 23:54:37 Score: 1
I love stories of young Frodo and little Merry! They have quite an
adventure in this one!

Title: Glimpse of Glory · Author: Linda hoyland · Times: Late Third
Age: 3018-3022 TA: General Drabble · ID: 575
Reviewer: Dot · 2007-12-30 23:55:06 Score: 3
This is incredibly well done. I love how Galadriel starts by thinking
of her realm and ever-flourishing beauty but as soon as she focuses on
her own power and pride she realises how easily evil creeps in. The
way you write the thought process is very clever and that last line
made me smile.

Title: Summer Daze · Author: Marta · Genres: Romance: Pre-Ring War ·
ID: 471
Reviewer: Súlriel · 2007-12-30 23:55:27 Score: 2
I enjoyed reading this sequel, I had missed it when you originally
wrote and posted it. Well done, and, I felt, well portrayed for the
nobility of almost any city.

The last ones!

Title: Green No Longer · Author: Allee · Genres: Drama: Vignette · ID: 666
Reviewer: Firya · 2007-12-30 23:56:22 Score: 6
Through all the bleak visions of the aftermath of the great battle of
Helm’s Deep, I like the complicated and many facets of Aragorn’s
characters here. Allee showed us a compassionate healer, as well as an
experienced warrior, and a wise leader in Aragorn. And I find the
interaction between the three hunters very delicate yet quite
believable. The Dwarf was realistic nonetheless, but also very
perceptive. These three could understand each other and share their
thoughts even without any words, and it showed the great similarity
between three races despite their differences. Though I mourn the loss
of innocence during the war, I can see hope rising from this very
scene. In a word, this is a moving and poignant ficlette, another
great piece of Allee.

Title: Alone, Yourself and Nameless · Author: Pearl Took · Races:
Cross-Cultural: With Pippin · ID: 434
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2007-12-30 23:57:36 Score: 3
Pippin had quite a dream in the house of Tom Bombadil--in this, we
find out the details. It's very nice to see him in an introspective
mood, answering the question, Who are you, really, alone, yourself and
nameless?

Title: Romancing the Smut · Author: Llinos · Genres: Poetry: With
Hobbits · ID: 797
Reviewer: trikywun · 2007-12-30 23:58:00 Score: 9
I thought this was very funny! Poor Merry just can't get any peace and
quiet to write his romantic poetry, not with his cheeky cousin
constantly interjecting the last line and making it something that his
gentlemanly cousin would never say to a lady in a million years.

Not only is the poem funny, but so is the scenario and both Pippin and
Merry seem very true to character in this as most fan writers depict
Pippin as the hobbit most likely to put his foot in it. As did Tolkien
himself!

I like that this writer has depicted them as adults. So many writers
treat them like small children but here, not only are they being very
grown up, they are being very rude grownups!

A saucy look at hobbits without actually being smutty despite the
title of the poem. I laughed at Pippin's cheekiness and at Merry's
seriousness, which was actually just as funny as Pippin being so rude!

I wonder what Pippin did when Merry was writing poetry for Estella and
did Merry retaliate when Pippin fell for Diamond? Also did Eowin even
know that Merry had such a crush on her? These and lots of other
questions could be answered in further poetry hint, hint!


Title: Measures of Time · Author: Raksha the Demon · Genres: Romance:
Gondor · ID: 50
Reviewer: Súlriel · 2007-12-30 23:58:05 Score: 3
I enjoyed this portrayal of both Eowyn and Faramir. I"m sure it must
have been hard for her to age differently than he did. I especially
liked your delicate balance of jealousy and truth. Well done.

Title: An Interview with a Woodelf · Author: dreamingfifi · Races:
Elves: Incomplete · ID: 227
Reviewer: Raksha the Demon · 2007-12-30 23:58:25 Score: 2
An ambitious and interesting story, one I hope the writer will finish;
and look forward to reading all the way through.

Title: A...Like An Antagonistic Arwen · Author: Linda Hoyland/Raksha
the Demon CoAuthors · Genres: Humor: Other Fixed-Length Ficlet · ID: 758
Reviewer: Dot · 2007-12-30 23:58:42 Score: 2
This is great! Arrogance and anger face-to-face. I love this rare
glimpse of a steely Arwen.

Title: Tea and Crumpets · Author: Llinos · Genres: Humor: The Shire or
Buckland · ID: 799
Reviewer: trikywun · 2007-12-30 23:59:32 Score: 3
A piece of nauhtiness that is more funny than actually rude! I did
laugh a lot at Pippin's silliness, especially with his excuses
watching the squirrels. and drinking beer with his crumperts.

Hey guys,

The results for the 2007 Middle-earth Fanfiction Awards are displayed
below. But first, a few notes on scoring.

Each story is assigned a score based on the number of reviews it
receives and how long they are. A review is worth up to ten points; we
add up the score for each review, and that is the story's score. We
then rank the stories in each subcategory by the number of points it
received. (Ties are broken by the number of reviews each story got,
and then by the total number of characters.)

First, second, and third place are exactly what you would expect. They
represent the three highest-scoring entries in each subcategory.

Honorable mentions take a bit more explaining. We calculated the
average number of points by adding up the scores for all the stories
and dividing by the number of entries. That worked out to just over 31
points. So every entry with 31 points or more that didn't also get a
first, second or third place. We recognize that some subcategories are
more competitive than others, and that a story might have placed in a
less competitive subcategory even if it didn't get first, second, or
third place in the subcategory it competed in. Honorable mentions are
our way of recognizing these stories. Honorable mentions are also
given out when we break a tie and the higher-scoring story gets third
place. Otherwise, we'd have two stories scoring very close to each
other, one getting recognized and the other not.

In either case, honorable mentions are used to identify stories that
did well, but that didn't quite place. Enjoy them.

It seems cliched to say that most of the competing stories deserve to
be recognized, but it's true. This year we had a lot of people writing
an awful lot of reviews for some very nice stories. The competition
was stiff, and there are some excellent pieces that could have easily
won in previous years, but didn't get quite enough points to earn even
an honorable mention. So if you're looking for a Tolkien fanfic story
to read over the next few months, I hope you'll consider all of the
nominated stories, not just those that won an award.

I also want to give credit to the people who worked hard to run these
awards the last few months. Everyone is busy reading and reviewing, so
a lot of times these volunteers' contribution is overlooked; I know
that if I was not working with them, in many cases I wouldn't know
what was being done.

Aranel Took and Tanaqui provided technical support for the website.
Inkling discussed policy issues with me as they came up and helped in
making decisions over the last few months. She also helped on lots of
special projects whenever I needed help. Annmarwalk posted the reviews
from the MEFA2007 website to this Yahoo group and LJ every day (often
more than once a day). Elliska set up memberships for people at the
voting website when they joined the Yahoo group. AmandaK, Baranduin,
and nautika customized banners for the authors listed below. Nautika
and Nessime created those same banners, and Rhapsody and Nautika made
some banners and buttons for nominated stories and reviewers.

And the list goes on. I am positive I'm forgetting someone --I always
do-- so do check out the full list of MEFA volunteers at
www.mefawards.net/MEFA2007/index.php?page=FAQvolunteers. And if you
know any of these people, please do thank them. These awards are much
too big for any one person to manage.

Now, without further adieu, here are the results for the 2007 MEFAs.



======= MAIN CATEGORY: ADVENTURE =======

*** Sub-Category: General ***
1. "The Three Hunters" by Dreamflower
2. "In Shadow Realm" by Legolass
3. "The Green Knight and the Heir of Meduseld" by Le Rouret
Honorable Mention
--- "I Bid You Stand" by storyfish

*** Sub-Category: Fixed-Length Ficlet ***
1. "Fell and Fair" by Elena Tiriel
2. "Some Dark Place" by Raksha the Demon
3. "All in a Day's Work" by Gwynnyd
Honorable Mentions
--- "Calm After the Storm" by Imhiriel
--- "Sarn Gebir" by agape4gondor

*** Sub-Category: Incomplete ***
1. "Stirrings of Shadow" by Fiondil
2. "Emissary of the Mark" by Soledad
3. "A Time to Reap" by Linda Hoyland

*** Sub-Category: Minas Tirith ***
1. "Keeper of the Jewels" by Cuthalion
2. "More Than Just Years" by Llinos
3. "The Archives Incident" by Dreamflower

*** Sub-Category: Pre-Ring War ***
1. "Exploring the Wild" by EdorasLass
2. "Lighting Fires" by Gwynnyd
3. "Journeys in High Places" by Illwynd



======= MAIN CATEGORY: ALTERNATE UNIVERSE =======

*** Sub-Category: General ***
1. "Resurrection" by Dwimordene
2. "The Blue Book of Bilbo Baggins, or, Tales of the Forbidden
Silmarillion" by Gandalfs Apprentice and Greywing
3. "Pick Your Battles" by Aliana
Honorable Mentions
--- "Five Things That Never Happened to Theodred and Boromir" by
EdorasLass
--- "Prince of Winter" by jastaelf
--- "When Day is Done" by Dana

*** Sub-Category: Gondor or Rohan ***
1. "The Turn of the Tide" by Altariel
2. "Subdivisions" by Aliana
3. "Fruition" by EdorasLass
Honorable Mention
--- "And Not to Yield" by Lady Marshy
--- "Letter to Frodo" by AmandaK
--- "Soap" by Aliana
--- "The Captain and the King" by plasticChevy
--- "Those Darned Socks!" by AmandaK

*** Sub-Category: Incomplete ***
1. "O, Cruel Fate" by Greywing
2. "The Blessing" by Golden and Pearl Took
3. "Lords of Gondor" by Linaewen
Honorable Mention
--- "In Aragorn's Safekeeping: Life in the King's House" by Radbooks
--- "No Man's Child" by Anoriath

*** Sub-Category: The Shire or Buckland ***
1. "Elements: Dreams of the Dead, Visions of the Living" by
pipkinsweetgrass
2. "Go Out in Joy" by Larner
3. "Turned Earth" by Dana



======= MAIN CATEGORY: CROSSOVER =======

*** Sub-Category: General ***
1. "Green Magic" by Gandalfs Apprentice
2. "Wind of Change" by Imhiriel
3. "On Starless Waters, Far Astray" by Empy



======= MAIN CATEGORY: DRAMA =======

*** Sub-Category: General ***
1. "Reconciliation" by Dwimordene
2. "Field of Dreams" by agape4gondor
3. "Drawing Straight With Crooked Lines" by Fiondil
Honorable Mention
--- "A Suitable Tribute" by EdorasLass
--- "Last Light" by Ignoble Bard
--- "Safe in My Arms" by Fiondil

*** Sub-Category: Elves in Later Ages ***
1. "Not Fade Away" by Jael
2. "Elf, Interrupted: Book One: Glorfindel Redux" by Fiondil
3. "The Inner Light" by Rhapsody
Honorable Mention
--- "Leaf Subsides to Leaf" by Ignoble Bard
--- "The Undiscovered Country" by Wimsey

*** Sub-Category: General Drabble ***
1. "The Waves' Song" by Branwyn
2. "Perturbation of Fate" by Rhapsody
3. "Shadows of the Past" by Marta

*** Sub-Category: Gondor Drabble ***
1. "The Lesson" by Branwyn
2. "Where There's Life, There's Hope (and in need of vittles)" by
annmarwalk
3. "A Game of Chess" by Marta
Honorable Mention
--- "End Times" by annmarwalk
--- "Geometry" by Branwyn
--- "Justice" by Imhiriel
--- "Swan Song" by Imhiriel

*** Sub-Category: Incomplete ***
1. "Passages" by Isabeau of Greenlea
2. "Tales of the Innkeeper" by Allee
3. "The Sword of Elendil" by Gandalfs Apprentice
Honorable Mention
--- "Brotherhood" by Bodkin

*** Sub-Category: Ithilien ***
1. "Journey's End" by Altariel
2. "The Far Corner of the Garden" by annmarwalk
3. "Graceful and Green" by Alawa
Honorable Mentions
--- "Charms of Wisdom and Grace" by annmarwalk
--- "Firelight" by Songspinner

*** Sub-Category: Minas Tirith ***
1. "Circumstantial Heroes" by Gwynnyd
2. "The Dancer" by annmarwalk
3. "The End of Dark Days" by annmarwalk and EdorasLass
Honorable Mention
--- "The Eagle's Gift" by Raksha the Demon

*** Sub-Category: Other Fixed-Length Ficlet ***
1. "Of Numenor That Was" by Marta
2. "Fell Memories" by Gwynnyd
3. "Under the Eyes of the Evenstar" by Raksha the Demon
Honorable Mentions
--- "Family Jewels" by Raksha the Demon
--- "Oliphaunts and String" by agape4gondor
--- "Sea King; Seeking" by Tanaqui

*** Sub-Category: Second Age or Earlier ***
1. "The Rose in the Fisted Glove" by Jael
2. "The Last Temptation" by Maeve Riannon
3. "Bonfires of Trust, Flashfloods of Pain" by Klose

*** Sub-Category: The Fellowship ***
1. "Despair" by Silivren Tinu
2. "Divided" by Pen52
3. "Requesting Mercy" by Larner
Honorable Mention
--- "Dear" by Febobe (Frodo Baggins of Bag End)
--- "Forcing a Path" by Linaewen
--- "Not an Ordinary Day" by nau_tika

*** Sub-Category: The Shire ***
1. "Letting Go" by Rowan
2. "In Silence Remembered" by fantasyfan
3. "When the King Comes Back (the Great Smials)" by Dreamflower
Honorable Mention
--- "The Dwarf Dagger" by Dreamflower

*** Sub-Category: Vignette ***
1. "Stopping by Woods" by Branwyn
2. "Outmatched" by Tiana Luthien
3. "Emmaus" by Dwimordene

*** Sub-Category: With Aragorn ***
1. "Conversion" by Pentangle
2. "The spaces between two silences" by illyria-pffyffin
3. "Waiting By the Water" by Linaewen
Honorable Mention
--- "Shadow and Thought" by Linda Hoyland
--- "The Days of the King" by Randomrattle

*** Sub-Category: With Merry ***
1. "Are You Going to Leave Me?" by Llinos
2. "Left Behind" by Elanor
3. "In the Hours of Joy" by Spindle Berry

*** Sub-Category: Youth ***
1. "Blooded" by Raksha the Demon
2. "Drawn With Love" by MerryK
3. "A Thankless Task" by EdorasLass
Honorable Mentions
--- "Answers and Questions" by Peredhil Lover
--- "Day and Night" by Peredhil Lover



======= Main Category: Humor =======

*** Sub-Category: General ***
1. "A Boy and His Lob" by Ignoble Bard
2. "Lord Namo's Yule Gift" by Fiondil
3. "Of Dragons and Manicures" by Llinos
Honorable Mentions
--- "Irreverence" by Aratlithiel
--- "The Arachnid's Appeal" by TrekQueen
--- "The Unbearable Smugness of Being Feanor" by Ignoble Bard
--- "To Represent the Elves" by Nieriel Raina

*** Sub-Category: Children ***
1. "A Useful Skill" by EdorasLass
2. "Sea Food" by annmarwalk
3. "Knave of Hearts" by grey_wonderer
Honorable Mention
--- "All that is gold...." by Perelleth

*** Sub-Category: Drabble ***
1. "Clothes Make the Man" by Gandalfs Apprentice
2. "An Unexpected Party" by Branwyn
3. "A Queen Among Farmers' Wives" by Imhiriel
Honorable Mention
--- "Rauros, Golden Rauros-Falls" by Imhiriel
--- "Too Many Adverbs" by Branwyn

*** Sub-Category: Gondor or Rohan ***
1. "Gentlemen's Night Out" by Oshun
2. "A Truth Universally Acknowledged" by annmarwalk
3. "The Promise in Her Eyes" by EdorasLass
Honorable Mentions
--- "Foreign Ways" by annmarwalk
--- "Mardil Goes A-Courting" by Le Rouret
--- "Rohan's Future" by Madeleine

*** Sub-Category: Other Fixed Length Ficlet ***
1. "A Mother's Touch" by Raksha the Demon
2. "Don't Be Deceived" by Imhiriel
3. "Better Days Ahead" by Raksha the Demon
Honorable Mentions
--- "Gifts" by Acacea
--- "Love Story" by Gandalfs Apprentice

*** Sub-Category: Parody ***
1. "Comes Now the Plaintiff, Frodo Baggins" by EdorasLass
2. "The Tragedye of Leaflet, Prince of Mirkwood" by Jael
3. "The Witch-king's Cloak" by Radbooks
Honorable Mention
--- "A Texas Gay Boy in King Thranduil's Court" by Ignoble Bard

*** Sub-Category: The Shire or Buckland ***
1. "More Than Meets the Eye" by Dadgad
2. "Decorum" by Larner
3. "A Passing Troll" by Dreamflower



======= MAIN CATEGORY: MYSTERY =======

*** Sub-Category: General ***
1. "The Case of the Purloined Mushrooms" by Inkling
2. "The Stone of Erebor" by Primsong
3. "The City and Star Island Line" by lipstick
Honorable Mention
--- "A Dragon in Buckland" by Pearl Took



======= MAIN CATEGORY: NON-FICTION =======

*** Sub-Category: General ***
1. "The Accidental King: Five Reasons Why Finarfin Deserves an
Appreciation Month" by Dawn Felagund
2. "The Tolkienian War on Science" by Doc Bushwell
3. "Who Is This Gil-galad, of Whom You Speak?" by Erunyauve
Honorable Mention
--- "The Anglo-Saxons and the Rohirrim" by willow_41z
--- "The Perfect Girl" by nikara



======= Main Category: Poetry =======

*** Sub-Category: General ***
1. "Good Rest Ye Merry" by Llinos
2. "Hiraeth" by Llinos
3. "A Collection of Sindarin Tanka" by juno_magic

*** Sub-Category: With Hobbits ***
1. "Watching and Waiting" by Llinos
2. "Romancing the Smut" by Llinos
3. "Hope Unquenched" by White Gull



====== Main Category: Romance =======

*** Sub-Category: General ***
1. "Cophetua" by Jael
2. "Come Back to Me" by Marta
3. "He Came to Meet Me" by sophinisba solis

*** Sub-Category: Drabble ***
1. "And Thought How Blessed He Was" by Imhiriel
2. "Bliss and Beauty" by Imhiriel
3. "A Life Between II" by Elen Kortirion

*** Sub-Category: Gondor ***
1. "Measures of Time" by Raksha the Demon
2. "A Game of Chess" by Altariel
3. "The Spear of the Lily" by The Bookbinder's Daughter
Honorable Mention
--- "Waters of Life" by Linda Hoyland

*** Sub-Category: Incomplete ***
1. "Unexpected" by Madeleine
2. "To This My Love Hath Come At Last" by Roh_wyn
3. "A Hidden Hope" by dancingkatz

*** Sub-Category: Other Fixed-Length Ficlet ***
1. "The Smile That Wins" by Marta
2. "Here We Go Round the Mulberry Bush" by Isabeau of Greenlea
3. "Beginnings" by Gwynnyd
Honorable Mentions
--- "Four Voices - Autumn, 3018" by annmarwalk

*** Sub-Category: Pre-Ring War ***
1. "Summer Daze" by Marta
2. "Seeking to Please" by Gwynnyd
3. "Duty Bound" by Bodkin

*** Sub-Category: Second Age or Earlier ***
1. "Youngest Son" by Bodkin
2. "Maitimo and Findekano" by Oshun
3. "Belonging" by Bodkin

*** Sub-Category: With Rohirrim ***
1. "Wings" by ErinRua
2. "Yours to Command" by Lialathuveril
3. "Winds of Change" by Lady Bluejay
Honorable Mention
--- "Black Eyes" by Lialathuveril



======= MAIN CATEGORY: CROSS-CULTURAL =======

*** Sub-Category: General ***
1. "Beneath a Gibbous Moon" by Bodkin
2. "Strange Stars" by Jael
3. "Rock and Hawk" by Adaneth
Honorable Mentions
--- "A New Reckoning" by Dreamflower
--- "Fair Folk and Foul" by Adaneth
--- "Property Rights" by Salsify
--- "Tamer's Tale" by juno_magic
--- "The Beginning of a Beautiful Friendship" by Imhiriel
--- "The Most Beautiful" by Meril

*** Sub-Category: Drabble ***
1. "The Horses of Eorl" by Branwyn
2. "Pest Control" by Tanaqui
3. "Maiden Voyage" by Fawsley

*** Sub-Category: Gondor ***
1. "Multicultural Interactions" by annmarwalk
2. "Time" by Bodkin
3. "Dissonance" by EdorasLass
Honorable Mention
--- "Sunshine and Roses" by shirelinghpc

*** Sub-Category: Incomplete ***
1. "Falling Into Shadow" by Marigold
2. "The Tenant From Staddle" by Larner
3. "Divine Intervention" by Meril

*** Sub-Category: The Fellowship ***
1. "The Green Hill" by Baranduin
2. "Concerning the Curious Healing Properties of Soup" by pipkinsweetgrass
3. "An Apple for Your Thoughts?" by Demus

*** Sub-Category: With Pippin ***
1. "Lost in Translation" by sophinisba solis
2. "If I Keep You Beside Me" by sophinisba solis
3. "Healing Lessons" by Pearl Took
Honorable Mentions
--- "Pippin's Little Experiment" by Budgielover
--- "Shadowfax, Lord of All Horses" by grey_wonderer
--- "Woven in Friendship" by SlightlyTookish



====== MAIN CATEGORY: DWARVES =======

*** Sub-Category: General ***
1. "Fissures" by Thundera Tiger
2. "The Gates" by Isabeau of Greenlea
3. "For the Dwarves, Gimli" by annmarwalk
Honorable Mention
--- "Seen in the Halls of Dwarrowdelf" by Aruthir
--- "The Ground Portends" by Thevina Finduilas
--- "The Weregild" by tyellas



======= Main Category: Elves =======

*** Sub-Category: General ***
1. "Mistaken Identities" by Greywing
2. "Elladan and Elrohir's Not So Excellent Adventure" by Fiondil
3. "The White Tower" by Anna Wing

*** Sub-Category: Fixed-Length Ficlet ***
1. "Where Once My Enemy Stood" by Nieriel Raina
2. "Before the Gate" by Jay of Lasgalen
3. "Celeborn's Trees" by Isabeau of Greenlea

*** Sub-Category: Incomplete ***
1. "Flame Rekindled" by Istarnie
2. "A New Day" by Oshun
3. "Nerdanel's Story" by Istarnie

*** Sub-Category: With Mirkwood Elves ***
1. "To Light the Way" by Dot
2. "City of Trees" by Gwynnyd
3. "All Lies and Jest" by Jael



======= MAIN CATEGORY: HOBBITS =======

*** Sub-Category: General ***
1. "Freddy and the Thain's Rabbit" by grey_wonderer
2. "Moira" by illyria-pffyffin
3. "Three Turnings of the Year" by Ruby Nye

*** Sub-Category: Children ***
1. "The Company of Heroes" by annmarwalk
2. "Bilbo's Gifts" by Llinos and Marigold
3. "Signs" by permilea
Honorable Mention
--- "Observations" by grey_wonderer

*** Sub-Category: Drabble ***
1. "Helping Hands" by Llinos
2. "Stone of the King" by Rowan
3. "Beauty" by Marta
Honorable Mention
--- "The Lining of the World" by Ruby Nye

*** Sub-Category: Gapfiller ***
1. "She Watches" by Larner
2. "By Sorrow Unawares" by Pearl Took
3. "A Long Road, There and Back" by Dana
Honorable Mention
--- "In This These Days of Glory: From Autumn to Spring" by Dana

*** Sub-Category: Hurt/Comfort ***
1. "A Rohan Tapestry" by Shirebound
2. "Stay With Me" by pippinfan88
3. "For Eyes to See That Can" by SlightlyTookish

*** Sub-Category: Incomplete ***
1. "The Great Hobbiton Race 1435" by Llinos
2. "Miss Dora Baggins' Book of Manners" by Dreamflower
3. "If You Could See What I Hear" by Cathleen

*** Sub-Category: Merry and Pippin ***
1. "It's No Mystery, Really" by grey_wonderer
2. "Through the Eyes of Another" by grey_wonderer
3. "Looking Awfully Hard" by Gryffinjack

*** Sub-Category: Post-Grey Havens ***
1. "A Kingly Discussion" by GamgeeFest
2. "Tom Cotton" by Dreamflower
3. "Still Round the Corner" by lbilover

*** Sub-Category: Post-Ring War ***
1. "Letting Go" by SlightlyTookish
2. "Cool Sunlight and Green Grass" by SlightlyTookish
3. "Setting the Captives Free" by pippinfan88
Honorable Mention
--- "Returning the Favor" by cpsings4him

*** Sub-Category: Pre-Quest ***
1. "Golfing Fever" by lbilover
2. "Merry's Wedding" by Larner
3. "In the Bleak, Cold Winter" by GamgeeFest

*** Sub-Category: Vignette ***
1. "Keepsake" by Marigold
2. "A Mother's Work" by Dreamflower
3. "Thirst" by sophinisba solis



======= MAIN CATEGORY: MEN =======

*** Sub-Category: General ***
1. "Mettare" by Galadriel
2. "Sorgbyrthen" by Aranel Took
3. "Stone From Above" by Thundera Tiger
Honorable Mentions
--- "A Song of Silence" by Nessime
--- "A Very Rain of Sparrows" by Dwimordene
--- "Burden of Guilt" by Linda Hoyland
--- "Charcoal, Stone and Cloud" by shadow975
--- "The Slave of the Ring" by Linda Hoyland
--- "Who the Sword Devours" by Nancy Brooke

*** Sub-Category: Eriador or Rivendell ***
1. "The man in the woods" by Dot
2. "Aragorn's Moment" by docmon
3. "In the Bloody Cottage" by Soubrettina
Honorable Mention
--- "A Ranger's Love Song" by Michelle
--- "Drink Down the Sun" by Michelle

*** Sub-Category: General Drabble ***
1. "Conjuror" by Branwyn
2. "Stranger in a Strange Land" by Tanaqui
3. "A Life Between - No Secrets" by Elen Kortirion
Honorable Mention
--- "Transformation" by Imhiriel

*** Sub-Category: Gondor ***
1. "The Young Knights" by Soledad
2. "13th Birthday" by stefaniab
3. "Free and Gay" by Marta
Honorable Mention
--- "A Wish for Yestare" by rhyselle
--- "In the Waiting" by Altariel
--- "The Love of Lore" by Oshun

*** Sub-Category: Gondor Drabble ***
1. "Respite" by Lindelea
2. "Could Will Have Its Way" by Nancy Brooke
3. "Heart of Lamedon" by Nancy Brooke
Honorable Mention
--- "A Moment Lost" by Fawsley

*** Sub-Category: Other Fixed-Length Ficlet ***
1. "A Pirate's Life for Me!" by Raksha the Demon
2. "A Little Knowledge Can Be a Dangerous Thing" by Tanaqui
3. "Inroads" by Raksha the Demon
Honorable Mentions
--- ".... To the Edge of Night: Seven Tells of a Moment" by Elen Kortirion
--- "The Exile" by Raksha the Demon
--- "Well-Lettered (The Director's Cut)" by Ribby



======= MAIN CATEGORY: VILLAINS =======

*** Sub-Category: Drabble ***
1. "Fun With Farm'n" by Sulriel
2. "With No Pity" by Elen Kortirion
3. "Fell Beasts" by Tanaqui



======= MAIN CATEGORY: EARLY THIRD AGE (1-2850 T.A. / pre-1250 S.R.)
=======

*** Sub-Category: General ***
1. "Friendship of Their Kind" by Dwimordene
2. "Descent" by Dwimordene
3. "Promises to Keep" by Jay of Lasgalen



======= MAIN CATEGORY: FIRST AGE AND PRIOR =======

*** Sub-Category: General ***
1. "Unstrung" by Tehta
2. "Salt" by Dawn Felagund
3. "Tales of Thanksgiving" by Dawn Felagund

*** Sub-Category: House of Fingolfin ***
1. "The Land of Gift" by Maeve Riannon
2. "Still Waters" by Ellie
3. "From the Sea" by Ford of Bruinen



======= MAIN CATEGORY: FOURTH AGE AND BEYOND =======

*** Sub-Category: General ***
1. "Sometime Ever After" by Dwimordene
2. "Crossing Towards Sunrise" by Imhiriel
3. "Remembering Anew" by Pearl Took
Honorable Mention
--- "My Dear Bandobras" by Le Rouret

*** Sub-Category: Drabble ***
1. "Enter the Fourth Age, Hastily" by Dwimordene
2. "Celebration" by Tanaqui
3. "Reunion" by Fawsley
Honorable Mention
--- "Thyme is a great healer" by Tanaqui

*** Sub-Category: Gondor or Rohan ***
1. "South" by Aliana
2. "The Harper" by juno_magic
3. "Taking Leave" by Soubrettina
Honorable Mention
--- "Comforting Silence" by Radbooks
--- "Fourth Year, Age 13" by Dwimordene
--- "Getting Away From It All" by Bodkin
--- "Web of Treason" by Linda Hoyland



======= Main Category: Late Third Age (3018-3022 T.A. / 1418-1422
S.R.) =======

*** Sub-Category: General ***
1. "Ten Thousand Years" by Marta
2. "Fire and Ice" by NeumeIndil
3. "Between Crown and Mantle" by Marastar
Honorable Mention
--- "Snare" by Ruby Nye

*** Sub-Category: General Drabble ***
1. "The Dryad" by Imhiriel
2. "The Third Eagle" by Imhiriel
3. "Diversion" by Mar'isu

*** Sub-Category: Gondor ***
1. "The Burning of the Year" by Raksha the Demon
2. "Vocabulary Lessons" by Larner
3. "The Tides of the World" by Raksha the Demon
Honorable Mentions
--- "Adrift" by fantasyfan
--- "Bransle Royal" by Ribby

*** Sub-Category: Gondor Drabble ***
1. "Green" by annmarwalk
2. "Osgiliath" by Dwimordene
3. "Twice Blessed is Help Unlooked For" by Tanaqui
Honorable Mentions
--- "Mastering Men" by Imhiriel
--- "Weary Beyond Joy or Sorrow?" by Imhiriel

*** Sub-Category: Other Fixed-Length Ficlet ***
1. "Duty and Devotion" by Marta
2. "Glimpses from Cormallen" by Marigold
3. "The Oarsman" by Tanaqui
Honorable Mentions
--- "Cultural Exchanges in Gondor" by Llinos and Marigold
--- "None may live now as they have lived" by Tanaqui



======= MAIN CATEGORY: MID THIRD AGE (2851-3017 T.A. / 1251-1417 S.R.)
=======

*** Sub-Category: General ***
1. "Brothers at Heart" by Radbooks
2. "Escape" by Bodkin
3. "Bitter Springs" by Dwimordene
Honorable Mention
--- "Dawning Hope: A Day Out" by Radbooks
--- "Foray" by Raksha the Demon
--- "Future Imperfect" by Tanaqui
--- "Making Acquaintance" by Bodkin

*** Sub-Category: Drabble ***
1. "Blackest Fate" by Branwyn
2. "No Escape" by Aranel Took
3. "Behind Every Great Man...." by annmarwalk
Honorable Mentions
--- "And We Will Travel North" by bewize
--- "Spring After Winter" by annmarwalk
--- "The Wink of an Eye" by Linda Hoyland

*** Sub-Category: Other Fixed-Length Ficlet ***
1. "No Harm Will Come of It" by Marigold
2. "First Flight" by Isabeau of Greenlea
3. "Temptation" by Linda Hoyland
Honorable Mentions
--- "Building the Future" by Tanaqui
--- "Many Guises and Many Names" by Gandalfs Apprentice



======= MAIN CATEGORY: MULTI-AGE =======

*** Sub-Category: Fixed-Length Ficlet ***
1. "Marking Fours" by Raksha the Demon
2. "Droplets" by Dawn Felagund
3. "Mighty among both Elves and Men" by Tanaqui
Honorable Mention
--- "Three Cups of Kindness" by Elen Kortirion



======= MAIN CATEGORY: SECOND AGE =======

*** Sub-Category: Drabble ***
1. "Coda" by Imhiriel
2. "Iron to Iron" by mrkinch
3. "Mentor" by Nessime
Honorable Mention
--- "For All Things a Cost" by Sulriel




PS - If you'd like to read reviews written for these stories, find
links to where they're posted online, or anything like that, check out
our website, www.mefawards.net/MEFA2007/. If you need help using the
website, just ask.