Yahoo Forum Archive

Title: Once Upon a Memory · Author: pippinfan88 · Races: Hobbits:
Friendship · ID: 665
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2006-09-04 02:43:57
This is a very sweet little story: Merry and Pippin, in Minas Tirith
remember an occasion in the Shire when they went on a walking trip with
Bilbo and Frodo. Pippin is hurt, and needs the services of a local
healer, who assumes that the three cousins are brothers. The whole tale
really shows the love and caring between them.
-----------------------------------
Title: The Falcon's Watch · Author: pippinfan88 · Genres: Drama:
Featuring Pippin or Merry · ID: 227
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2006-09-04 02:49:49
This is a very angsty story, narrated by Pippin's son, as he and Merry's
son travel to Gondor to honor their father's final resting place. In it,
Faramir struggles to understand why his father had to leave him, and
leave the Shire to end his days. Through the journey, the sons are
shadowed by the presence of a wild falcon--that may or may not be more
than it seems. This story is very thoughtful and insightful--I had
wanted to be the one to nominate it, but I found that someone else beat
me to it.
-----------------------------------
Title: Healed · Author: Shirebound · Genres: Alternate Universe:
Post-Grey Havens · ID: 117
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2006-09-04 02:53:45
Such a sweet and interesting AU: in it all five hobbits are allowed to
sail West for healing--but there is a catch. Upon reaching Tol Eressea
they revert to their infancy, and must grow up all over again, as
innocents. The concept sounds silly on the surface, but it is
delightfully and gently executed, and has a lot more depth to it than
first appears.
-----------------------------------
Title: Shelter · Author: Shirebound · Times: The Great Years:
Post-Sauron's Fall · ID: 217
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2006-09-04 02:57:19
Another Cormallen fic--of which there can never be too many. In this
one, the weather in Ithilien turns rainy, and the three injured hobbits
must be moved into one of the shelters in use for the wounded Men. The
author uses the opportunity to shower the three of them in gentle
comfort and respect, given by the other members of the Fellowship, and
also by the injured Men. The love and caring here are palpable. I was
very moved by the respectfulness of all the injured Men.
-----------------------------------
Title: The Three Towers · Author: Shirebound · Times: The Great Years:
Post-Sauron's Fall · ID: 113
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2006-09-04 03:01:36
In trying to throw off the nightmares of Cirith Ungol, which are
accompanied by his failure to remember what actually occured there,
Frodo determines to return to the place, and set his mind to rest. All
the rest of the Fellowship as well as a good many guards and Men of the
City accompany him in this new Quest. I love Frodo in this--he is not
weak except for physically--he is strong and determined to overcome his
past. I also love the way the others do their part to help him--and this
time Merry and Pippin are not forced to separate from him. There is a
very memorable OC, as well, whom I quite got to like, and hope that the
author will show again one day.
-----------------------------------
Title: Psychodiagnostic Evaluation - Subject: The Lady of Rohan ·
Author: Anoriath · Genres: Humor: Parody · ID: 753
Reviewer: Oshun · 2006-09-04 05:32:59
This is one delightfully, outrageously funny piece. The tone is just
right and the canon references are rock solid. Oh, dear! I laughed.
Shame on me. Or perhaps I should say "Shame on you!" Poor Eowyn. But she
does make one want to shake her until her teeth rattle at times, doesn't
she? She is too easy though. I thought you would have to work a whole
lot harder to get me laugh in the Faramir section. But, no. You had me
from the moment when the interviewer asks him how Eowyn appeared to him
when he first encountered her and he answers: [Lovely.] One more great
line I must include: at the end of the interview when the examiner is
finishing up, but before he shuts off tape recorder, you have him mutter
[How do these people *find* each other?]

Great little fic. You have great range. I am reading a new story of
yours now that is heartbreakingly serious.
-----------------------------------
Title: You Watch To Dissociate · Author: Ghettoelleth · Genres: Drama:
General Fixed-Length Ficlet · ID: 195
Reviewer: Rhapsody · 2006-09-04 08:42:58
Wow, this is incredibly sensual and creepy at the same time. It makes
you wonder how long Daeron spied on Luthien, including all the moments
she was with Beren. I love the way how Ghettoelleth captures Beren
victory in possessiveness of Luthien in words and at the same time, she
brilliantly portrays Daerons creepy fascination which he harbours for
the daughter of Thingol. I knew there was something off about Daeron,
but to see Beren deal with this in clear body language and actions& yum!
I wonder if Daeron fell out of a tree or ran into one when he saw this.

[Uhm, just to see if I could, really.]

I am just amazed how you capture an important canon event in 100 words,
because indeed, Daeron will stop singing in Thingols court. Every word
to describe this often-overlooked triangle is well chosen with spot on
characterisation. It feels balanced and it reads incredibly fluently as
if you are reading a short story. There is no question to second-guess
if you succeeded! You simply did! This drabble is simply a masterpiece:
haunting and so tantalizing at the same time. Most recommendable.
-----------------------------------
Title: Grey Havens · Author: Space Weavil · Races: Elves · ID: 708
Reviewer: Rhapsody · 2006-09-04 11:26:13
What an amazing and compelling story. After I finished reading this,
some matters about which I pondered upon for a long time were addressed
in this story. The beginning is very intriguing: what could possibly
happened between Gil-Galad and Cirdan to cause this disruption in a
friendship. Besides the heartbreaking end and sacrifices both bring,
this story also tells a good tale on how the Grey Havens came into
being, the issues between the remaining elven houses after the
destruction of Beleriand is well told, but it doesnt dominate the tale.

Your two main characters seem so different from each other and are
fleshed out extremely well: the relatively young Gil-Galad trying to get
used to his new responsibilities and new life and the more experienced
Cirdan who finally dares to think about a family with the unfortunate
Elinel caught in between. And oh, I feel sorry for her, she wants to
follow her heart, but due to political consequences, she has to wait for
Gil-Galad to finish his duties as King before he deems to sail west to
Valinor.

The ending is very haunting, on the eve on the War of the Last Alliance,
both friends meet again and the reader knows all to well that Gil-Galad
will not sail into the West which gives a bittersweet meaning to the
sacrifice he will make soon on behalf of all. I cannot help to think
that he will be reborn soon though& so who knows. Space, what a great
story: I simply love it!
-----------------------------------
Title: What Better Companion? · Author: Space Weavil · Races: Elves ·
ID: 175
Reviewer: Rhapsody · 2006-09-04 11:42:41
Oh my, what a great short story! I always am amazed about Space Weavils
stunning narrative, but the description of Glorfindel and his movements
is simply amazing. His patterns of thoughts seemed very reasonable for
an elf newly reborn and being acquainted with his body.

I did read [Once in a Fair Green Country...] last year for the MEFAs,
so Gandalfs inquisitiveness does not come as a surprise to me, the
sudden switch to the more serious tone when Glorfindel asks him of his
intentions feels very Gandalflike when he for example talks to the
Hobbits. The dialogue between Glorfindel and Gandalf is splendid and to
me it feels as if Glorfindel will be a great tutor for Gandalf in the
journey to come. Glorfindels own questions about his newly found fate
and acceptance comes very natural in the story, nothing feels forced
which makes this story a very pleasant read.
-----------------------------------
Title: And all in evil ended be · Author: Werecat · Genres: Humor:
Fixed-Length Ficlet · ID: 122
Reviewer: Isabeau of Greenlea · 2006-09-04 12:17:23
Ha! Much that was unclear is now explained! An interesting premise...and
not an unreasonable one. Does this mean Morgoth is also responsible for
rats, pigeons and Twinkies?
-----------------------------------
Title: Thus We Part · Author: Tinni · Times: First Age and Prior · ID: 251
Reviewer: Rhapsody · 2006-09-04 12:35:34
What a heart-breaking story. Tinni writes a torn Celebrimbor who, in his
mind, pleads his father to redeem himself and forsake the oath. What in
particular is well written are the consequences of the oath for the son
of a kinslayer who followed his atar into exile. I haven't read that
much story that dealt with this turning point in Celebrimbor's life.

There is pain, pride, good will, and hope in Celebrimbors words in a
seeming prayer to the all father, but also an eerie sense of
foreshadowing, knowing that even he will not escape the doom of Mandos.
In beautiful prose, the author lets the reader feel what this character
has to go through: forsaking his father after following him so far into
exile and leaving behind so much. You can feel how confused he is by his
father's actions and you show us as a reader that even Curufin felt
bound to an Oath he simply could not renounce.

[You are holding me like you used to and I feel the grief flow out of
you. Grief but not repentance, o father why not repentance? ]

This particular part gave me the shivers:
[I do not want to die for my creations, for if I die I can create no
more. Please, Iluvatar, do not let me share the fate of my grandfather.
Please.]

It is hard to imagine that the next generation of the Noldor elves will
suffer at the hands of the next generation of Evil. This is a stunning
testimony of love and a strong will which makes it very moving. All in
all, this is a well-structured story in which you can only hope that Eru
will have mercy on Celebrimbor and make just one exception, but we do
know this will not be the case.
-----------------------------------
Title: Nan Elmoth · Author: Robinka · Genres: Romance: Poetry · ID: 249
Reviewer: Rhapsody · 2006-09-04 13:57:51
Nan Elmoth is a incredible sensual poem. I am simply in awe how the poet
can capture so much passion and love in the form of a sonnet. But this
poem is much more: it breathes the start of something anew, the love
between two people, a new identity and the dawn of a new Kingdom once
finally awoken. I often imagined how Melian and Elwë would break their
spell and they do it in a manner I expected coming from Tolkien, but in
this particular sonnet it is envisioned by Robinka. It feels like such a
private moment and yet not, as if both do not want to hide anything from
the world, as if they want to declare their love to the rest of their
kind  who are somewhere waiting for their Lord to pop up.

After years of being frozen in a spell, Robinka starts the poem with a
great line which clearly gives you a sense of time and location. And in
their eagerness to move, they erupt in what feels like a dance of
lovers, the rhythm is simply perfect, it flows and reads so smoothly and
yet I cannot escape the deeper meaning of a bond so lovingly formed in
this piece. You can feel Melians first steps in discovering physical
love for Thingol and in return, Thingols yearning for a mate so fair.
Robinkas writing is graceful, evocative: simply an excellent example of
showing instead of telling in poetry. This is a tale of legend: a
glimpse of it captured in this beautiful work. I am simply awestruck by
your talent in poetry Binks!
-----------------------------------
Title: The Importance of Being a Hobbit · Author: Lamiel · Races:
Hobbits: War of the Ring · ID: 961
Reviewer: Dwimordene · 2006-09-04 16:06:16
Lamiel showed me last year that she is an excellent ensemble writer, and
here she does it again, though in a shorter space. The journey south
from Rivendell in its early days was a time of adjustment, as the
members of the Fellowship had to become acquainted with each other in
close quarters and come to rely on each other as they had not in
Rivendell. Such periods are inevitably awkward, and we can see the
strain clearly through Merry's perspective. The hobbit-Big Folk division
in his mind is overly broad, but it nevertheless shows up clearly his
sense of being helpless and in some sense worthless compared to the
other, more experienced members of the Fellowship, who have been at war
for longer than they'd care to think about.

Merry desperately wants to help share that burden, and the ordinariness
of himself and the other hobbits (minus Frodo, who, as Ringbearer, is
therefore in some way extraordinary), their lesser ability to survive a
long journey in an armed company, rankles deeply. At the same time, the
Elf-Dwarf rivalry is in full swing, Boromir, Gandalf, and Aragorn are
all doing their best to maintain damage control and tempers are getting
perhaps just a bit frayed.

When it comes to a head in another minor incident of hobbit-incited
chaos, Merry finally has a much-needed conversation with Legolas, who
fortunately (despite being young) is old enough and wise enough to be
able to explain the value of the 'ordinary' to Merry in terms Merry can
understand and accept without feeling as if he's being humored or
patronized, however unintentionally. That need for uniqueness of spirit,
to be what and who one uniquely is, is what Legolas brings out as
important, and while that doesn't prevent growth and a broadening of
ability and interest, it does take away the grinding need to conform to
some common standard that by nature cannot accommodate all that is
worthwhile.

Thanks for another lovely Fellowship gap-filler, Lamiel!
-----------------------------------
Title: Not In Vain · Author: Pipwise Brandygin · Races: Hobbits: War of
the Ring · ID: 675
Reviewer: Dwimordene · 2006-09-04 16:06:34
Pippin's natural inquisitiveness and grief for Boromir finally lead him
to the hard questions. Fortunately, Gandalf is the object of these
questions that are, in some sense, without answer, and if anyone can
suggest a way of understanding the unfathomable workings of fate or
providence, it is Gandalf.

This gap-filler works very well to fill in some of the things we miss
during the actual narrative--discussion of Boromir after his death, for
example, and the younger hobbits' coming to terms with it. Gandalf
sounds properly wizardly and wise here, and as usual proves more
insightful when it comes to the secrets others are keeping than one
would expect. But he's also uniquely suited to determining when it will
help to tell those secrets, and here he does tackle the hard fact of
Boromir's betrayal and death and redemption in an effort to bring Pippin
some relief, as the quick flow of events and palantir exposure bring
with them see-sawing emotion.

Pipwise Brandygin gets that right, but without overdoing it: the story's
tone and style throughout avoid going into the sentimental; Pippin's
grief and confusion are tempered with enough reflection and willingness
to listen to move us through this episode with the feeling that this is
plausible, that this is what really might have happened.
-----------------------------------
Title: First Night · Author: Pearl Took · Races: Hobbits: War of the
Ring · ID: 400
Reviewer: Dwimordene · 2006-09-04 16:06:47
This is a very well-executed gapfiller, and shows us a Pippin believably
in low spirits, frightened, feeling utterly out of his depth. Nothing is
made to his measure--not the streets, not the stairs, not the wash basin
or the window or the baths, and certainly not the loneliness. Spending
that first night in a new place is always somewhat traumatic and
difficult, but under these circumstances, bereft of lifelong friends and
more recently familiar companions, in a city dark and under siege, it's
a real trial.

The scent of lavendar in the sheets that reminds him of home is very
poignant and potent--scent can be such a trigger to memory, and this is
shown very well. I liked the blending of dream and waking life, the
unreal cries of Pippin's family shouting that [He's back!] and his
waking to discover that indeed, Gandalf is back, thankfully.
-----------------------------------
Title: Until After · Author: Dana · Races: Hobbits: War of the Ring ·
ID: 897
Reviewer: Dwimordene · 2006-09-04 16:07:01
A lovely prelude to [Years After and a Sea Between]. I really like the
way Dana manages the perspective--at once distant, so that we are
onlookers, and yet so close to Pippin and his only apparently
straightforward reflection on the quest and the deepening relationship
between him and Merry. It allows for a tone of familiarity that strikes
exactly the right note for me for these two--Merry being at once
confidant less mature and (perhaps?) less intimidating in a way than
Frodo, yet able (and likely!) to say exactly what Frodo would tell him
at certain moments.

Their 'courtship', moving in fits and starts so that the moments of
actual exploration and growth *with* each other move astonishingly
quickly, in a rushed manner befitting the circumstances of the stages of
the quest, but also incredibly dragged out and interrupted by those same
circumstances. Things are rather disjointed--talking comes after loving,
and Pippin is deserted (though it's he who is taken away, in fact).
Emotion is chaotic, yet the narrative style restrains it, orders it, and
somehow cuts it down to size--hobbit size, which, if that means the
hobbits are, as Pippin realizes, in over their heads far sooner than
their larger companions, seems also to mean that they come to grips with
that fact more quickly.

Well done, Dana! Enjoyed every moment of it!
-----------------------------------
Title: Breeze · Author: illyria-pffyffin · Races: Hobbits: War of the
Ring · ID: 974
Reviewer: Dwimordene · 2006-09-04 16:07:13
An unusual viewpoint, and I like the memories of the utmost west that
the wind carries in it, though the miles it has traveled disguise them.
The references to Glorfindel and Turin, too, were well done. I can
imagine the wind scattering the ashes around Frodo and Sam in an effort
to help, and to recall the music of the west to soothe them.
-----------------------------------
Title: The Decoy Hobbit · Author: storyfish · Races: Hobbits: War of the
Ring · ID: 257
Reviewer: Dwimordene · 2006-09-04 16:07:27
An interesting take on the light-heartedness of hobbits. I can't quite
believe even Pippin would manage this much cavalier cheer in the face of
death, but the style is nevertheless amusing and entertaining, and I
liked his being tired of everyone calling his name instead of telling
him useful things. Sweet, yet unsentimental.
-----------------------------------
Title: Fugitive · Author: Gandalfs apprentice · Genres: Drama · ID: 366
Reviewer: Imhiriel · 2006-09-04 17:47:48
Engaging story, with good characterisations and well-handled emotions. I
like the original idea that Ivorwen was still alive for such a long time.
-----------------------------------
Title: The Recall · Author: Isabeau of Greenlea · Times: Fourth Age and
Beyond: Gondor · ID: 738
Reviewer: Imhiriel · 2006-09-04 17:48:26
You show very well how overmuch punishment, restrictions, and demands
for reparation of the loser in a war may breed resentment and new wars.
And how leniency and reconciliation can prevent them and further
prosperity and peace for both sides.

I'm glad to see that Imrahil, despite the harsh grief about Andrahar's
death, has lost none of his wisdom, cunning and the willingness to apply
both where it is needed (and that his "piratey streak" is still there).

I very much like the fact that he made his move because of his general
sense of justice rather than personal acquaintance.
-----------------------------------
Title: Sword Play · Author: Lindelea · Times: Fourth Age and Beyond: The
Shire · ID: 782
Reviewer: Imhiriel · 2006-09-04 17:48:52
Love how those two try to out-do each other in different ways, and how
Farry's various tactics to best Goldi keep backfiring. Good
characterisations, fitting for their age and respective background.

-----------------------------------
Title: An Exaltation of Larks · Author: Ibilover · Times: The Great
Years · ID: 178
Reviewer: Imhiriel · 2006-09-04 17:49:23
Well-written and entertaining gapfiller. The language is formal but not
stilted. The emotions and relationships in the early stages of the
Fellowship getting to know each other are explored and presented
believably. Interesting terms of venery, both genuine and made-up *g*.
-----------------------------------
Title: The White Tree · Author: Linda Hoyland · Races: Men: Featuring
Aragorn · ID: 94
Reviewer: Imhiriel · 2006-09-04 17:49:54
The characterisations are too sentimental to be believable to me, but I
like the developing strong relationship between Aragorn and Faramir. The
story shows well the strong symbolic meaning the White Tree has for
Gondor, and for Faramir with his foresight and faith/hope in particular.
-----------------------------------
Title: Chance Encounter · Author: Dreamflower · Times: The Great Years:
Post-Sauron's Fall · ID: 187
Reviewer: Imhiriel · 2006-09-04 17:51:02
Very good characterisations, layered, canonical. The relationships are
handled excellently. Good pacing, the plots and subplots have just the
right amount of build-up and resolution. The descriptions of Minas
Tirith are wonderfully detailed and bring the city and its inhabitants
truly to life, in all its broad range from good to bad, from rich to poor.
I love the inclusion of the song ["When the King enjoys his own again"]
- it's remarkable how well it fits into Middle-earth.
-----------------------------------
Title: Stolen · Author: Meril · Genres: Alternate Universe · ID: 46
Reviewer: Imhiriel · 2006-09-04 17:51:22
Brrr, chilling. You created disturbing images with well-chosen words of
horror, destruction and desecration.
-----------------------------------

Title: Merry's Magnificent Yule · Author: Marigold · Genres: Humor: The
Shire · ID: 211
Reviewer: Imhiriel · 2006-09-04 17:51:59
Entertaining and engaging. I like the wry humour of the narrative voice
and how helpful and cheerful Pippin stays despite it all. It must have
been odd that in this case _he_ is the one who has to look after his
older cousin. The close relationship between the cousins comes through
very clearly.
Merry's drunkenness and poor Pippin's attempts to handle him are
depicted very vividly, amusing and sweet both.
You clearly haven't left out many embarrassing possibilities *g* (but at
least Dinodas didn't recognize them)!
A good thing Merry won't remember much of the night, and let's hope
Estella will write soon...
-----------------------------------
Title: Nothing but Dreams · Author: Unsung Heroine · Genres: Drama:
First Age Elves · ID: 659
Reviewer: Imhiriel · 2006-09-04 17:53:05
Vivid description of the current bleak surroundings, so in contrast to
Caranthir's wistful memories of Thargelion, creating an atmosphere that
feels appropriate for haunting ghosts. The emotions are handled excellently.
I like the ambiguous language, mimicking Caranthir's fever dreams and
his unsettled state of mind, where Haleth appears so very real, and that
he wavers between longing for her and fearing her nearness.
-----------------------------------
Title: The Remains of Power · Author: Pearl Took · Times: The Great
Years: Vignette · ID: 228
Reviewer: Imhiriel · 2006-09-04 17:53:37
Very good exploration of Saruman's thoughts as he is held captive at
Orthanc. His arrogance, his diminished power, his shameful anger, his
desire for revenge, his fear of Sauron, are very clearly sketched. How
humiliating that he is now inferior even to the formerly despised Nazgûl.
It's amusing to see that in his reduced state, even his petty attempt to
menace some ducks is vain - in both senses of the word.
-----------------------------------
Title: Avoidance · Author: stefaniab · Genres: Romance: Incomplete · ID: 674
Reviewer: Make It Stop · 2006-09-04 19:41:34
A wonderful tale! "Avoidance" is vivid and touching, with a narrative
pace that moves along quickly. It's the story of Faramir and Eowyn's
relationship, told in flashback as they prepare for an evening with the
King: their meeting, their growing attraction to one another, the
jealousies and setbacks, the redemptive possibilities of love. Angst is
nicely balanced with whimsy. I particularly admire Stefania's sensory
details, backed up with meticulous research and footnotes: the layout of
the gardens, the hamams (Roman-style baths), the nervous horses and
seismic activity that precede the eruption of Mt. Doom, and Faramir's
preference for "cavay", an aromatic black beverage from Far Harad. A lot
of thought and craftsmanship has gone into this story.

I also like the way Stefania uses the inspiration of movieverse to fill
in gaps in the story, and bring out the humanity of the lovers. How
liberating, and refreshing, to have the story told by characters who
perspire, get dirty, banter, tease, lust, feel jealousy, and so forth.
Highly recommended!
-----------------------------------
Title: The Letter · Author: Gryffinjack · Races: Hobbits: Post-Sauron's
Fall · ID: 955
Reviewer: pippinfan88 · 2006-09-04 20:58:11
This is yet another story from Gryffinjack that I loved at the first
read. She puts her own spin on things in that she actually has Pippin
write a letter home to his parents while he is yet in Minas Tirith. And
this, in turn, creates another host of very valid questions that
Eglantine and Paladin raise after they read the letter to discover their
son is really alive. The author turns the table of thought in that
Paladin and Eglantine are worried about whether or not the Shire is a
safe place for the lads to return to. The part of Pippin recounting his
entire adventure into a rather long and breath-taking recital is both
humorous and sobering. I think the author has shown her creative
imagination in considering the possiblity of the hobbits sending letters
home to precede their arrival in the Shire, which is a very brilliant
idea! The author's style of writing is magnificent, smooth, and reads
just like a book. A wonderful story.
-----------------------------------
Title: The Short Cut · Author: Garnet Took · Races: Hobbits: Friendship
· ID: 827
Reviewer: pippinfan88 · 2006-09-04 21:15:38
This is a wonderful story in that Merry thinks he's 'all that and a bag
of chips, too' with regard to reading maps and finding his way through
short cuts. Rather than listen to the very one who would most likely be
familiar with his father's favourite places to hide--or fish, Merry
takes it upon himself to navigate through the unfamiliar territory
without any assistance until he finally gives in. Hence, Pippin gets the
upper hand in the deal, and poor Merry's balloon is deflated just a bit.
In the end, the pair still has fun and gets home safely. A very lovely
story!
-----------------------------------
Title: Seeker of Shadow · Author: Raksha the Demon · Genres: Romance:
Fixed-length ficlet · ID: 63
Reviewer: Imhiriel · 2006-09-04 22:59:09
The poetry fit's Eöl well, its arhythmic cadences mirroring his
unsettling thoughts. I like the ambiguity of the tale: different time
frames, Eöl speaking to different persons, that it is unclear in how far
he used some compulsion or if indeed she came ["of her own will"].
-----------------------------------
Title: Relief · Author: Acacea · Genres: Drama: Pre-Fellowship · ID: 518
Reviewer: Branwyn · 2006-09-04 23:40:06
Faramir leads the relief party, but the surprise hero of the piece is
Denethor! This is how Denethor's downfall probably began--when he could
not resist using the palantir for military reconnaissance. Sauron would
have shown him just enough information to gain a current and temporary
advantage. This ficlet raises the question of how much Faramir and
Boromir guessed about Denethor's use of the palantir. Tolkien says that,
as the heir, Boromir would have been told of its existence. How many of
these coincidences before he began to guess the truth?

Boromir's wry way with words (["He kept his head, quite literally..."])
is very much in character. (I always loved his sardonic remarks in the
book "Fellowship.") It is gratifying to see Denethor as an effective
ruler and loving father for a change.

A very enjoyable read!
-----------------------------------
Title: A Meara for Me! · Author: Súlriel · Genres: Non-Fiction · ID: 893
Reviewer: Gandalfs apprentice · 2006-09-05 03:34:34
This is an absolute joy to read and one of the most useful pieces of
Middle-earth nonfiction that I have come across. Writers like me, who
lack any real knowledge of horses, are truly challenged when it comes to
writing about the creatures. In fact, as you well know, there is a very
important horse character in one of my stories, and he has to be written
well to be believeable and worthy of love. It's been a real struggle,
and I'm eternally grateful for the help you gave me.

I will definitely choose one of your horses to "be" him. Don't know
which one yet--there are so many to choose from! But between the
pictures and the careful descriptions of the horses' characters and best
uses, you have provided the tools I need to write despite my ignorance.

There is rather an absence of stallions, however. Another thing I would
like to know about (dare I ask?) is how gelding would change the
behavior of a horse. Do you know about the use of geldings as war horses?

I was glad you included the comical one who likes to pick people's
pockets. A horse with so much personality is crying out for a story.

For those who are not interested in portraying horses in their stories:
don't miss this piece anyway! It is extremely interesting, the horses
are astonishingly gorgeous, and you will probably want to create a story
just to use one of them in it!

Thanks, Sulriel!
-----------------------------------
Title: Home Again · Author: Súlriel · Times: Early Third Age:
Fixed-Length Ficlet · ID: 863
Reviewer: Gandalfs apprentice · 2006-09-05 03:38:32
I discovered cats and The Lord of the Rings at about the same time in my
life, and it's a delight to be able to appreciate them together. A
perfect portrait of a feline, and a beautifully wrought drabble--every
word just what it should be. The evocation of smell is, of course,
perfectly catlike. Some day we've got to rescue cats from Tolkien's
obvious dislike. Why, did you know he called Siamese cats "creatures of
Mordor"? Ha!
-----------------------------------
Title: The Prince and the Pea · Author: Karri · Genres: Humor: Children
· ID: 158
Reviewer: Gandalfs apprentice · 2006-09-05 03:39:39
This enjoyable story takes off on the Princess and the Pea. It's fun
seeing the great Elf lords getting the better of little Estel, but I
suspect he figured it out pretty quick. I did wonder what happened to
the badly wounded Elf at the beginning.
-----------------------------------
Title: Gondor Needs No King · Author: Ribby · Times: The Great Years:
Gondor Fixed-Length Ficlets · ID: 207
Reviewer: Gandalfs apprentice · 2006-09-05 03:40:09
A remarkable drabble that sets up an entirely AU tale in 100 words. The
best chosen words are "wolfish and predatory." Your backstory is
suggested also--and the reader has to expect Boromir to soon do away
with his father, as well, with that Ring winking on his finger. Well done!
-----------------------------------
Title: The Consequences of Curiosity · Author: A L Milton · Genres:
Humor: Gondor · ID: 153
Reviewer: Gandalfs apprentice · 2006-09-05 03:41:02
A delightful take on "my hands are ungentle." I got a big chuckle out of
it. My favorite scenario is The Lady Corsair and the Captured Emissary.

And frankly it's nice to see some of the kink being attributed to het
relationships! Why should slash have all the fun? Both Eowyn (off stage)
and Faramir are totally in character here.

Just one complaint: I really don't think Aragorn was as slow on the
uptake as all that.
-----------------------------------
Title: Trivial Matters · Author: Thundera Tiger · Genres: Humor: Gondor
· ID: 839
Reviewer: Gandalfs apprentice · 2006-09-05 03:41:53
I got the biggest kick here out of Legolas, the super-sensitive Elf (so
typical of those moody, whiny creatures--sorry, but so often that's how
they are presented in fanfic!). Obviously Faramir is getting a wicked
chuckle out of besting everyone, including the rather self-satisfied
King. I appreciated Gimli's role in the commission of the crime in question.

The story is of course completely without any point or any redeeming
meaning or social value, and that's the reason it is so funny, along
with the astute turns of phrase.
-----------------------------------
Title: Finding the Right Words · Author: Nienor Niniel · Races: Men:
Post-Sauron's Fall · ID: 785
Reviewer: Gandalfs apprentice · 2006-09-05 03:42:17
This thoughtful portrait of Faramir's night before the coronation is a
delight to read. It's a good touch that he sits in the Steward's chair
for the first time and "sees" the rulers of Gondor--for he is one,
although he serves the King. I always thought Aragorn would be very good
at delegating responsibility and would want a strong council, headed by
the Good Steward Faramir.

I'm not sure you are right about Denethor accepting Faramir's withdrawal
as Ruling Steward. I could argue it both ways, and I have, in one story
or another. He is a complex character who surely would have experienced
real conflict on the matter. I can't see him scorning the house of
Elendil, but I can see him scorning Aragorn and doubting his claim.
There is a lot of room for story-writing in that one!

We see the characters in a very similar light, so it's no wonder we like
each other's stories! I'd like to read more of yours.
-----------------------------------
Title: An Exaltation of Larks · Author: Ibilover · Times: The Great
Years · ID: 178
Reviewer: Gandalfs apprentice · 2006-09-05 03:43:02
I love books, words and "The Lord of the Rings," and this tale gives me
the opportunity to enjoy all three. So beautifully in character, too,
for all the members of the Fellowship. I particularly appreciate the
making of a story out of wordplay, leading up to the Hobbitpile. A
beautiful, unusual piece.

Just one complaint: the "aught" etc. in Aragorn's and Boromir's speech
sounds stilted.
-----------------------------------
Title: Fear and Loathing in Middle Earth · Author: vladazhael · Genres:
Humor: Fixed-Length Ficlet · ID: 407
Reviewer: Gandalfs apprentice · 2006-09-05 03:43:24
Hilarious! It's a challenge, telling Tolkien's tale of heroic romance
mixed with Hobbit plainness in the style of the gonzo journalist. But
you did it.
-----------------------------------
Title: Mirrors of Numenor · Author: Dostoevsky's Mouse · Races: Men:
Incomplete · ID: 242
Reviewer: Gandalfs apprentice · 2006-09-05 03:43:52
I only have one complaint about this story: it isn't finished! This tale
has everything that I look for in the best fanfic: Aragorn, flashing
swords, Aragorn, interesting interpersonal dialog, Aragorn, fine writing.

I love Thorongil stories, but so many are disappointing. Yours provides
a fine portrait of both Denethor and Aragorn and establishes an
intriguing respect and wariness between them. I could see them becoming
fast friends--or enemies. I am very eager to see where you will take the
tale. There are already several threads to be followed and resolved:
Denethor's discovery of Thorongil's identity--or not; how much will he
find out about the healing powers (which should already be raising big
questions--they are hardly common, I should think); more to be revealed
about Thorongil's time in Rohan.

The battle scene was very well done. Graphic, full of action, but not
going on too long. Your knowledge of ships is thorough enough to be
convincing.

One thing jarred me, though. With the story being told from Denethor's
point of view, it is odd that Aragorn is called by his real name, and
not by Thorongil. After all, the reader knows who he is, if Denethor
does not.

I am glad also that you show a reasonable tension between Ecthelion and
Denethor without making either one a villain. There is too much "taking
sides" in fanfic.
-----------------------------------
Title: History Lessons: The Third Age · Author: Nilmandra · Times:
Multi-Age: Incomplete · ID: 167
Reviewer: Gandalfs apprentice · 2006-09-05 03:44:35
This epic tale chronicles Elrond's very long life, thus many, many other
characters are also represented. The author does a good job fleshing out
the emotional reality behind some very complex events. A good story
about Elves. I really like your take on Elladan and Elrohir and their
role in the Fourth Age.
-----------------------------------
Title: Wizardry · Author: Dwimordene · Times: Late Third Age:
Fixed-Length Ficlet · ID: 179
Reviewer: Gandalfs apprentice · 2006-09-05 03:44:57
Of course, I can't possibly be objective about this piece, since it was
so graciously written for my birthday. But why be objective? It's simply
splendid! A word-perfect portrait of both men (for Gandalf is in man's
form, after all, and feels the same aches and pains) at a particularly
excruciating moment in their toils. And breaking into laughter is so
characteristic of them both, as is shown by the two lovely quotations
that the author has included as footnotes. Reading between the lines,
one might think that Gollum knew they were on his trail by this point.
It's not clear from the way Tolkien tells the story whether in fact he
was locked up in Sauron's dungeons all those years they searched to no
avail. Thanks again, Dwim!
-----------------------------------
Title: On the Way Home · Author: Citrine · Races: Hobbits: Post-Grey
Havens · ID: 649
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2006-09-05 03:45:16
The sorrow of those left behind after Frodo sailed from the Grey Havens
has often been explored, and I never tire of reading it. This gentle
story in which Merry and Sam commiserate together, and comfort one
another is just a beautiful example. As usual, Pippin finds the right
thing to say to lighten the mood--yet at the same time, their sorrow
remains--but somewhat consoled by the knowledge of their own friendships
with one another. Beautiful job, but this author always does angst
beautifully without ever going over the top.
-----------------------------------
Title: Tales of Life · Author: Ainu Laire · Times: Multi-Age: Incomplete
· ID: 235
Reviewer: Gandalfs apprentice · 2006-09-05 03:45:18
This collection of small tales is charming and full of life indeed! They
touch on many scenes from Aragorn's life, and range in point of view
from his own to that of others. There are moments from the great story
(heroic deeds) and highly personal vignettes. Most of them are solidly
founded in canon; the others have no contradiction with canon. While
each one is worthy in its own right, taken together they paint a
portrait of more depth.

The author is young; I expect even better things from her as her writing
matures. Keep at it!
-----------------------------------
Title: Strange Fortunes · Author: Tehta · Times: First Age and Prior:
Incomplete · ID: 81
Reviewer: Gandalfs apprentice · 2006-09-05 03:46:27
This comedy of manners is a seamless melding of Middle-earth and wry,
observant humor. You squeeze laughter out of places one would never
expect to find it, like in the description of Maeglin enjoying being
thought inscrutable--and the description, entirely drawn from Tolkien,
of the absurdly bejeweled armor. Probably there are jokes that went over
my head, as I am far from a First Age Elf chick. Have trouble telling
those Elves apart, in fact. Which is only a testament to how
entertaining your story is, because I read it all. I was a little
dubious before I started, but because I love your "Stories Spawned by
Sauron" so much, I was determined to jump in.

I think my favorite scene of all, however, is Salgant under the table
with the chicken. Loved his terrible poetry, too.

One criticism--I thought some of the talking went on too long. Shorter
would be zippier.

I hope Tuor will be in this story.before the end. And please--finish it!
-----------------------------------
Title: For a cause, a friend, a loved one · Author: Werecat · Genres:
Humor · ID: 120
Reviewer: Gandalfs apprentice · 2006-09-05 03:46:51
Such a delightful piece, which only Werecat could produce! Each of the
animals is deftly drawn in a few strokes, and so well named! The cat is
perfection in her independence and her fierce motherhood. The mice are
very wise to flee, given what I've seen my cats do to mice (and birds,
for that matter). So we've got war in the human world and war in the
animal world!
-----------------------------------
Title: Quo Vadis? · Author: Tehta · Times: First Age and Prior · ID: 86
Reviewer: Gandalfs apprentice · 2006-09-05 03:52:06
I like this portrait of the artist as an unloved Elf even better than
your other, no doubt because there is a dragon in it, and so well
captured, too. And I even felt sorry for Salgant. I love your use of
canon, although, since I have never read the book of Lost Tales, you
could have made twenty errors and I would never know. This is how I like
to use canon myself in many of my stories (I like to write about
Aragorn)--that is, reinterpreting Tolkien mythology as if it really were
a mythology and not to be worshipped like a dead thing.

I hope Morgoth lets Salgant compose some real stuff--he might find the
atmosphere a little more liberating than Gondolin (stuffy old Elves).
Brilliant story.
-----------------------------------

Hey guys,

If someone nominated one of your pieces for the 2006 MEFAs you should
have received an email telling you about these awards. The text of
this email is generated automatically by our website, by taking a
form letter and customizing it with information specific to your
story. If you have ever used the mail merge feature in a word
processor like Microsoft Word, the process is really very similar.

All of which means that we need to start off with a good email. The
email we send authors needs to explain a little the awards, tell them
what we need them to do (and by when) for their story to compete, and
not get caught in their spam filter. We had some problems this year,
especially with the last of those concerns. And it's important to me
that we not make the same mistakes twice.

To that end, we are discussing how to change this form over at the
[mefa-discussions] Yahoo group. I have posted one example of an email
generated by the site this last year (for one of my own
stories, "Make It One for Paladin") at

http://groups.yahoo.com/group/mefa-discussion/message/201

If you are not already a member and would like to be involved on
discussing how these awards are run or just would like to join in on
this conversation, you can join this group. If you don't have a Yahoo
ID send me an email at mefasupport(at)gmail(dot)com and I will add
you as an email-only member.

If you don't want to join but still have advice about how the email
could be changed you can also email me at that same address. I don't
have the time to discuss these suggestions with everyone
individually, but I will pass on your suggestions to the group and
we'll take them into consideration.

Marta

Title: Gandalf's No Good, Rotten, Really Bad Day · Author: Gandalfs
apprentice · Genres: Humor: Parody · ID: 146
Reviewer: Oshun · 2006-09-05 12:33:43
This story is hysterical and consummately well-written. It is certainly
AU, but uses hard-core canon knowledge in the most effective way
imaginable to make its points. There are layers and layers to the humor,
not only does the author dig out the weaknesses in the logic of the
original, but it takes well-aimed pokes at movie verse as well. There
were many points in this where I was laughing until my sides hurtI
cannot tell you why Arwens snuffling at the thought of poor dead
Aragorn is so funny, but it is. Manwë gets the last lineas, of course,
he shouldand it is a winner! This is no lightly tossed off piece of
slapstick or simple comedic relief at the end of a long day of writers
block, but an erudite, witty, and carefully crafted work and oh so
funny. It compiles a long list of errors, mistakes of judgment,
negligence, and just plain stupidities committed by the
oh-so-well-meaning Gandalf, who this reader thinks of as so wise and
nearly infallible, until all of Middle Earth is crumbling under the
collective weight of them. Poor Gandalf himself is then left trying to
explain to a less than pleased Manwë what he might have been thinking! I
have a secret file on my computer of lines of fanfic that I wish I had
written and a good number of them come from this piece. Just goes to
show you that even the greatest writer can always profit from a good
editor. (Sorry JRRT, if it doesn't feel fair that first she steals your
work and then nit-picks it to death!)
-----------------------------------
Title: He walks among the greenèd bowers · Author: Dwimordene · Genres:
Drama: Poetry · ID: 669
Reviewer: Rhapsody · 2006-09-05 15:36:11
This poem is amazing in its simplicity and depth. While I read this I
can see Eomer walking between the burial mounds of Rohan while the
simbelmyne guide him on his way while dancing on the wind. Dwim, you
give Eomer's grief so much depth in this piece. It clearly shows that it
will take a while before his pain of those he lost will lessen, but he
also knows that he has a clear purpose and a his heritage to defend as
the sole survivor of his line:

['Tis for him to see them sung:
The price to pay, to be that one,
To bear the cost of living won.]

This ballad - rightly named- itself flows gracefully and makes you want
to read it again. The choice of words is not overdone, but it portrays
the mood of the character perfectly.
-----------------------------------
Title: Better Than Frodo Baggins · Author: Inkling · Genres: Drama:
Pre-Fellowship · ID: 809
Reviewer: Imhiriel · 2006-09-05 17:32:22
Gives believable insight into Lotho's feelings about Frodo, his envy of
his easygoing manners and shame at his own reluctant admiration. How his
upbringing in a household of resentment, greed and anger could have
influenced his attitude. His desire to ["show them all"] one day that he
is better than Frodo give a very convincing explanation for his later
doings.
-----------------------------------
Title: A Healer's Tale · Author: Lindelea · Races: Hobbits · ID: 861
Reviewer: Imhiriel · 2006-09-05 17:33:11
Fits neatly into your universe, with excellent characterisations of all
of the large cast, finely-tuned relationships, and nicely-detailed
descriptions that make the settings and people truly come to life,
including some fitting "hobbity" traditions. The dialogues flow
smoothly, each character's voice is distinct.

Your picture of the Shire society is consistent, plausible and
well-structured, and you show it through your characters, instead of
having to resort to too much background information - show, not tell,
indeed.

I did sometimes wonder if the two plot threads didn't distract from each
other, particularly as they constantly alternate, but I was so caught up
in both that it mostly merely increased the suspense.
-----------------------------------
Title: Beleg and Túrin · Author: Raihon · Genres: Romance · ID: 755
Reviewer: Imhiriel · 2006-09-05 17:33:51
Shows how Beleg got tragically, hopelessly tangled in Túrin's doom,
drawn like a moth to a flame. Túrin's characterisation, true to form, is
prideful, self-centred, obstinate, short-tempered. I find the ending too
abrupt.
-----------------------------------
Title: Lightly Sings the Wind · Author: Ellie · Genres: Drama: Elves in
Later Ages · ID: 799
Reviewer: Imhiriel · 2006-09-05 17:34:49
Finarfin's and Eärwen's grief at the loss of their sons brings the story
of fighting, exile and wars to a very personal level, evocative and
affecting (although I do have reservations about how very melodramatic
and self-indulgent she is for so long before she finally looks further
than her own feelings).
-----------------------------------
Title: Trust · Author: Dwimordene · Genres: Drama · ID: 216
Reviewer: Imhiriel · 2006-09-05 17:36:23
Excellent characterisations; emotions and relationships are depicted
vividly and believably, the strength of mind, honesty and courage of
both protagonists are clearly drawn. An interesting and well-handled
plot, with clever allusions to other stories of the "Unabeauverse".

The issue at stake - trust and surrendering control - is tastefully
handled, avoiding clichés and truly exploring what it means to the
characters with their respective backgrounds and problems. It's not only
about their personal relationship, but it actually encompasses other
matters as well: politics, military, the relationships with Denethor,
Imrahil and Faramir.

I like the fact that it starts more as a diversionary tactic, but then
segues into a true exploration of where the relationship stands and
where it could/should go from there. And that not all issues are
resolved, that still Boromir holds back things, but is more or less
reconciled to it.

Framing the story with the PoV of the general populace was an
interesting touch.
-----------------------------------
Title: The Gardener's Wife · Author: Vistula the Dunadan · Races:
Hobbits · ID: 720
Reviewer: Imhiriel · 2006-09-05 17:37:01
Intriguing premise. I can't quite believe it, especially that no gossip
would have come to Sam's ears, but the characterisations and emotions
ring true, especially the Gaffer's.
-----------------------------------
Title: The Salt-Rose · Author: Lady Aranel · Genres: Romance: Incomplete
· ID: 283
Reviewer: Gandalfs apprentice · 2006-09-05 19:09:17
This is a beautifully sensual and erotic piece. I very much appreciate
stories that avoid hard-core sex but evoke all the senses in an erotic
way. I could see these dancers before my eyes and hear the beat of the
music. Probably their first time performing in Minas Tirith? A very good
move on the part of King Elessar. No doubt he is the only one who has
seen them before. I like to imagine the Fourth Age as one of great
flowering of culture and science in Middle-earth, and that the King's
Peace meant that Gondor would benefit from the cultures of other
lands--just as the Romans did in their day. Without Sauron, the best
part of culture can flourish! (I'm not sure the professor was so
optimistic, but I am!)

But above all, this must be a stunning experience for Legolas the Wood
Elf. Are you planning to continue the tale? Does he find out more about
the Haradrim? How?

A question: is it appropriate for the audience to applaud? I don't know
when that became a custom.
-----------------------------------
Title: Bilbo's Nursery Rhyme for Merry and Pippin · Author: Llinos ·
Races: Hobbits: Poetry · ID: 882
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2006-09-05 22:09:34
This is just adorable--it actually has the real sound of the sort of
nursery song that children love to play along to! I could easily see
Bilbo bouncing baby Pippin on his knee, with Merry at his side, as they
proclaimed this little rhyme! I especially liked he device of the
emphasized words, for little Pippin to shout out along with the rest. A
really cute poem, and done very well technically also--it scans
perfectly--not a bit of straining to it!
-----------------------------------
Title: A Whisper From Across the Sea · Author: Gryffinjack · Races:
Hobbits: Post-Grey Havens · ID: 223
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2006-09-05 22:59:31
I feel rather sheepish reviewing a story in which I had a hand as beta,
but truly, I did not need to do a lot to this one. This is a very
unusual story, one filled with description--almost poetic. There is no
dialogue, though there is a plot of sorts: Frodo, across the Sundering
Seas, senses that all is not well with those he loves, and he sends a
message of love and hope, borne upon a breeze to the Shire, where his
cousins are grappling with a difficult time. This story is absolutely
filled with faith and hope and the sure knowledge that time and distance
are no barrier to love.
-----------------------------------
Title: SpiderWebs · Author: Lindelea · Races: Hobbits: Children · ID: 783
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2006-09-05 23:07:53
I just love this little childhood story. Although Merry and Pippin play
a part--especially Pippin, who serves as a catalyst and a foil--the
story is not about them, but about little cousin Celandine. She is very
tired of being left out of the lads' games by her older brothers and
cousins, and so when she gets the chance, she takes her revenge in a
very apt and original way. I love the dignified way she accepts her
punishment when her misdeed is discovered. This is a delightfully funny
and touching little story!
-----------------------------------
Title: The One · Author: Linda Hoyland/Raksha the Demon CoAuthors ·
Races: Men: Featuring Aragorn · ID: 852
Reviewer: Branwyn · 2006-09-06 01:48:28
Both authors are to be commended for this exceptional story. It is
beautifully written and develops an interesting idea--that just as
Aragorn was destined to be king, Faramir was destined to be his Steward.

The writing is smooth, well-paced, and poetic, reminiscent of Tolkien's
own style. The language is carefully chosen to be archaic (as is proper
for one of Tolkien's Gondorians) without being obtrusive or heavy.

It is plausible that Aragorn would have had prophetic dreams; his mother
Gilraen and his grandmother Ivorwen both had the gift of foresight. In
this story, Aragorn dreams of the face of the stranger who will one day
be his Steward. When Aragorn does finally meet Faramir, his recognition
that this is the stranger from the dreams is yet another way in which
Faramir confirms Aragorn's right to the kingship (the theme of Faramir's
confirmation of the rightful king is also explored in Raksha's story
"The Falcon and the Star").

Aragorn's introspection is perfectly in character. We know that he is
well-schooled in patience, but one has to feel for him as he suffers
disappointment after disappointment over the years.

Thanks to Raksha and Linda for sharing this tale, and I look forward to
reading further works from their combined pens!

-----------------------------------
Title: The Letter · Author: Gryffinjack · Races: Hobbits: Post-Sauron's
Fall · ID: 955
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2006-09-06 01:56:06
It always seemed to me very plausible that once the War of the Ring was
ended, the hobbits would have written letters to their families, to let
them know that they were alive, and would come home when they could. It
was likely that due to the Troubles in the Shire, with the Post being
stopped, that the letters probably would not be delivered--yet there is
nothing to say for certain that perhaps one did make it through. The
author postulates such a letter arriving at the Great Smials from
Pippin. The reactions of Paladin and Eglantine to the news is very sad
and yet heartwarming. How greatful they are to know their son is alive,
and yet how frightened to know the situation he'll be returning to. Very
well thought out.
-----------------------------------
Title: All Is Well · Author: Gryffinjack · Times: Late Third Age: The
Shire · ID: 969
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2006-09-06 01:59:40
This is the author's first LotR fanfic, and I really enjoyed it
immensely--and not just because it was written for me! The author very
sweetly portrayed the visit of a young Pippin to Bag End, and the
consequences of a dream--a dream that he later finds coming true, many
years after. I thought the concept very clever, and it was also very
well executed. It's a really sweet story!
-----------------------------------
Title: Necessity and Desire · Author: Gwynnyd · Times: The Great Years ·
ID: 173
Reviewer: Gandalfs apprentice · 2006-09-06 15:32:03
This story is the very epitome of a gap filler, weaving together plot
elements straight from Tolkien and explaining how it all MUST have
happened. Well written, and carefully thought through, crafting a whole
tale out of bits and pieces from the master.

I enjoyed Boromir's first sight of Elves. I can certainly identify with
him here! Surely he must have wondered if they even existed at all.

I particularly liked the interplay between Elladan and Elrohir and their
foster brother, and your portrait of Arwen. The relationship between
them all is warm and easy. I loved the flashback to the scene in the
past: the description of the intimacy between her and Aragorn was very
well done--she is clearly very much in love with her Man, and a whole,
vital person in her own right.

The interchange about politics adds elements to the story that again
must have been there but Frodo wouldn't have known about it, so it
didn't make it into the Red Book.
-----------------------------------
Title: Nothing but Dreams · Author: Unsung Heroine · Genres: Drama:
First Age Elves · ID: 659
Reviewer: Dawn Felagund · 2006-09-06 17:00:31
What a beautiful story! The comparison that you draw between Caranthir's
relationship with Haleth and later with Ulfang is intriguing; something
of which I'd never thought before. In fact, I hadn't really given much
thought to what must have gone through Caranthir's mind after the
betrayal of Ulfang at all, but you really brought this to life here. The
scene between Caranthir and his brother, where he asks why he was warned
about Haleth and not Ulfang, is breathtakingly moving!

I do have a question: Which brother is caring for Caranthir? Is there a
reason why you withhold his name? (Personally, I was picturing Maglor,
given the references to Maedhros' capture and my own personal idea of
Maglor as his primary caretaker at this time.) But I had a bit of
trouble fully immersing myself into these scenes because I wasn't sure
which brother to picture!)

Your version of Haleth's ghost is stunning, especially the description
at the end of a person with warm arms and no shadows; the contrast
between these aspects gives the ghost an otherworldly feel that
transcends the ordinary idea of a "ghost" as a cold, vaporous being.

I wonder if Caranthir felt that his realm in Thargelion would be his
home forever because he was born in Aman, in a deathless land? When you
write this line, it really got me thinking (and kicking aside plotbunnies).

I am captivated by the mood in this piece, which is handled so well and
so consistently that I continue to have this melancholy/creepy vibe,
even a quarter-hour after reading the story.

You've done a lovely job with this, Atanwende!
~Dawn
-----------------------------------
Title: Conversational, of Cousins · Author: Vana Tuivana · Genres:
Drama: Poetry · ID: 642
Reviewer: Dawn Felagund · 2006-09-06 17:01:37
I remember one of the first things I wondered after reading The
Silmarillion was whether Fingon managed to take Maedhros's hand or
whether it was left on the mountain. Or maybe tumbled down into the
abyss? I even asked my husband what he thought. "You're morbid," he told
me. At least I know I'm not alone in this. ;)

This is a fascinating poem, Vana. With few words and in poetic form, you
bring to life one of the most discussed and written-about friendships in
a fresh and touching way, expressing the depth of history that they
share and, hence, the difficulty of the task that Fingon was called to do.

(And I *loved* the line about Ambarrussa!)

I am not much on poetry because it usually goes over my head, honestly,
but I really enjoyed this one and recommend it highly. Lovely job!
-----------------------------------
Title: Written in the Starlight · Author: Rhapsody/Robinka CoAuthors ·
Times: First Age and Prior: Incomplete · ID: 402
Reviewer: Dawn Felagund · 2006-09-06 17:02:11
I printed chapter one of this story to read on my lunch break. I read
chapter two (and wrote this review) while I am supposed to be
researching warrants. Oops.... ;)

I wanted to tell you both how much I am enjoying this story. It has been
on my reading list for a long time, and when I made my MEFA wish list,
it was one of the first that I brought to work to read. I am going to
mention some of the things that I like best and apologize for
incoherence (because I really need to get back to researching those
warrants).

-The dialogue of this piece really impresses me. It feels genuine for a
Silmfic without being overly pompous or feeling like a cheap imitation
of Tolkien's style. I have written enough stories to know how hard this
is to do. The conversations between Gwindor and Beleg flow naturally;
the interactions between the Feanorions feel appropriately tense and
also made me laugh in places. The conversation between Melian and
Thingol shows their love for each other and also an overlying
strangeness from her, appropriate for a Maia.

-In Chapter One, the use of the weather as a backdrop for the scene is
superb. The lightning flashes, the thunder and rain all underscore the
tension and action in the scene. As I was reading it, the descriptions
let me see the scene as though I was watching a movie. When Turin awoke
and grabbed Beleg's arm, it was such a simple motion but was made to
have an impact by the use of light and sound; again, I felt like I could
see the scene in a movie. As I think back on it now, I can still picture
it...wonderful!

-In Chapter Two, I love the interactions of the Feanorions. Each brother
is given a personality all his own, all in short time. (Hey, it took me
a novel to do that with just four of them! I am impressed!) Their
interactions feel realistic and are at once tension-filled and sometimes
subtley comic.

-The detail about battle strategies and geography in this chapter is
great, lending it an authenticity without being overwhelming to a reader
who hasn't memorized The Silmarillion and Foster's Atlas of Middle-earth.

-And I have to say: Maglor! What a wonderful Maglor! I am so tired
(Rhapsy knows this) of reading pansy!Maglor in stories, as though he who
ruled the Noldor in Maedhros' absence, held what might have been the
most dangerous realm in Beleriand, and killed Uldor really spends every
other moment gazing into space and composing laments to his
oath-burdened and broken heart. Your Maglor has an edginess and power
yet does not stray from what we know of him from canon. I *love* the
part where he rebukes his brothers for thinking him "only" a singer. I
love the subtle (and not-so-sublte) ways that he governs, persuades, and
supports his brothers...and gets his way!

This was (believe it or not) my first story focused around Beleg and
Turin that I've read. I can't wait to read more of it. If I didn't have
off from work tomorrow, I might finish it today, but as it is, I really
need to finish those warrants.... ;)

My congratulations to both of you for a captivating and well-written
story. I foresee many pleasant lunch breaks to come!
-----------------------------------
Title: Elves Do Skate · Author: Caporal · Genres: Humor · ID: 135
Reviewer: Dawn Felagund · 2006-09-06 17:03:01
Hi, Caporal,
What a delightful little piece! I wasn't sure what to expect from such a
title but haven't read Silmarillion humor in a while and so went for it.
(Never mind that I'm a sucker for the Feanorions!) You handle the
dialogue between the twins exceptionally well; it reads like a real
conversation between brothers: close and comfortable without being
overly sentimental and very funny without being farsical.

This was my favorite bit:

["We must," says Amrod gravely, "be thinking of different Carnistirs."

"Same one. You know. Brother of ours, about so high..." Amras raises a
hand a few inches above his own head "...no sense of humour, blushes a
lot. You must know him."

"Not," says Amrod, incredulous, "our brother Carnistir? Not
black-like-my-soul Morifinwë?"]

Truly a welcome diversion!
-----------------------------------
Title: Lightly Sings the Wind · Author: Ellie · Genres: Drama: Elves in
Later Ages · ID: 799
Reviewer: Dawn Felagund · 2006-09-06 17:03:26
Hi, Ellie,
I've read this before but of course I have to commit to MEFA
officialness how beautiful of a story that you have here. What struck me
at my first reading and continues to impress me now is that you do not
shy away from what Earwen is honestly feeling: her grief, yes, but also
her resentment toward her people and her husband. At times, she seems
selfish--almost shamefully so--but it feels *real.* I can imagine these
emotions surfacing in a mother who has lost not one but all of her
children, in one way or another. So few authors are willing to tackle
what went on in Aman after the Noldor left and the certain grief that
those left behind must have felt, and you do a commendable job of
bringing this oft-neglected angle to life.

And of course, as a fellow Finarfinatic, I love your Arafinwe. He is at
once gentle and also strong, as I firmly believe he must have been. And
he's really hott too, for the record. ;) In other words, he's completely
in-character and very well written.
-----------------------------------
Title: Teatime in Rivendell · Author: Gandalfs apprentice · Races:
Cross-Cultural: Fixed-Length Ficlet · ID: 373
Reviewer: Imhiriel · 2006-09-06 19:00:15
He-he! Nice bit of turnaround. Good timing and dialogue. The little
scene is depicted very vividly.
-----------------------------------
Title: A Hallowed Place of Both Peoples · Author: Imhiriel · Times:
Early Third Age: Fixed-Length Ficlet · ID: 944
Reviewer: Gandalfs apprentice · 2006-09-06 19:06:48
An interesting take on the beginning of Rohan. Surely the Rohirrim faced
just such suspicions. It was to Cirion's credit that he moved forward
anyway. A stunning setting for this drabble.
-----------------------------------
Title: On the Fair Hill · Author: Imhiriel · Times: Late Third Age:
Fixed-Length Ficlet · ID: 946
Reviewer: Gandalfs apprentice · 2006-09-06 19:09:19
I am a sucker for Aragorn and Arwen romance, but this is better than
most, because of the focus on the beauty of the scene. The kiss gains
more meaning thereby.
-----------------------------------
Title: Too Few Words · Author: annmarwalk · Races: Dwarves · ID: 311
Reviewer: Imhiriel · 2006-09-06 19:11:12
Lovely descriptions, of both setting and characters. Flowing language:
The story is told like a saga, which fits Dwarvish culture, I think. I
like this dignified, restrained Dwarf-woman, somehow she reminded of a
Geisha, because she seems so conscious of all her expressions, words and
movements (and because of the tea).
-----------------------------------

I jumped back into reviewing this morning after catching up with
some RL stuff and had a wierd thing happen.

I reviewed two of GA's stories, finalized the reviews then refreshed
the main screen - and they were gone.

logged in as myself, I show that she has 14 stories nominated and
that I've reviewed four of them (NOT including the two I reviewed
this morning). It did say 16 this morning and the two disappeared
off my list after I reviewed them. BUT the four I reviewed in the
past are still there. - I know that the finalized reviews are
posted to the public once a week, but shouldn't I still be able to
see the ones I've put in?

when I log in as admin, I see that she has 17 stories nominated,
including the two I reviewed this morning, but my reviews aren't
being displayed, either in the finalized count or the draft or
hidden and I don't see any kind of 'pending' display for the reviews
that become available once a week.

have I broken something or am I simply very confused. ? :(

Title: The Importance of Being a Hobbit · Author: Lamiel · Races:
Hobbits: War of the Ring · ID: 961
Reviewer: Imhiriel · 2006-09-06 19:18:56
A very good depiction of the Fellowship at the start of their journey,
when they are still getting to know each other and the Hobbits learn
about the ways of hard travelling.

Each member is true to canon and fully-rounded. Flowing, natural
dialogue, well-handled emotions, good attention to details of
description and gestures.

Merry's ambiguous thoughts about the Ranger-watch on the Shire and his
feeling of inadequacy on the Quest are believable and well-sketched, as
is Legolas' response.

Loved Legolas and Gimli sniping at each other and Merry's mental tally
of Elf-Dwarf insults.
-----------------------------------
Title: The Healer and the Warrior · Author: Madeleine · Genres: Romance:
Lothíriel & Éomer · ID: 140
Reviewer: Imhiriel · 2006-09-06 19:20:53
A very good feeling for atmosphere and setting, with descriptions of
sights, sounds, smells, that make the story come to life. Good use of
humour. The timing of events of the WotR is a little off, so the
believability of the premise is sometimes stretched, but the plot is
gripping and entertaining regardless.

Lothíriel's characterisation is particularly wonderful: intricate,
believable, three-dimensional. The mixture between experience and
innocence is well-balanced and delightful.
But Éomer, too, is characterised well: young, fierce, courageous,
temperamental (and sexy *g*).
The rapport between them is clear to see, the air is sizzling with their
attraction for one another, in their banter, their serious conversations
and the erotic tension between them.

I like the detailed description of the Houses of Healing; the way you
write them they sound both practical and truly restful and conducive to
healing.
-----------------------------------
Title: Peace Comes Dropping Slow · Author: Songspinner · Races: Hobbits:
Post-Grey Havens · ID: 224
Reviewer: Imhiriel · 2006-09-06 19:38:10
Tender, intimate, moving. A long life full of love captured in just a
short scene. I like the gentle, quiet pace of the story.
-----------------------------------
Title: Of All the Pretty Little Horses · Author: Oshun · Genres: Humor:
Gondor · ID: 736
Reviewer: Imhiriel · 2006-09-06 19:38:29
Hilarious misunderstanding. Even funnier because it is Faramir who talks
of the horse, not Éomer. I like the easy rapport between them.
-----------------------------------
Title: Of Stone and Fire · Author: Werecat · Genres: Drama: General
Fixed-Length Ficlet · ID: 124
Reviewer: Imhiriel · 2006-09-06 19:39:22
Well-chosen words to describe and convey the contrast between Fëanor and
Gimli in their link to Galadriel. Fënor's fiery indignation, contrasted
against Gimli's stolidity, seems hilarious.
-----------------------------------
Title: The Summons · Author: Gandalfs apprentice · Times: The Great
Years: The Fellowship · ID: 254
Reviewer: Imhiriel · 2006-09-06 19:39:49
Shows clearly and convincingly the shifting relationship between Aragorn
and Boromir, with all its ups and downs, and how following the
["Summons"] to Minas Tirith really is not that clear-cut and simple.
-----------------------------------
Title: Counting the Days · Author: Lady Bluejay · Genres: Romance:
Lothíriel & Éomer · ID: 281
Reviewer: Imhiriel · 2006-09-06 19:41:04
Entertaining, despite the predictability of the outcome. The camp and
the surroundings are depicted well, as is the easy friendship between
Éomer and Éothain. Some jarring modernisms.
-----------------------------------
Title: Fire · Author: Aramel · Genres: Drama: Fixed-Length Ficlet Series
· ID: 172
Reviewer: Imhiriel · 2006-09-06 19:41:31
The last drabble is a believable, if AU-tale of the creation of the
Three Elven Rings. Celebrimbor contemplating a Ring of Earth is a
fascinating idea, and his reason for choosing a Ring of Fire in the end
- fond memories of his grandfather Fëanor - is a moving conclusion.
-----------------------------------
Title: Tinúviel, Tinúviel · Author: Cuthalion · Genres: Romance: Rohan ·
ID: 103
Reviewer: Gandalfs apprentice · 2006-09-06 21:11:29
Normally, I hate movieverse. If I want PJ's AU, I'll watch his films
(which I love for what they are). In fanfic I look for bookverse.

This story is an exception. It is excellent...in fact, a blend of
movieverse and bookverse, because it does not indulge in the irritating
stupidity of an Aragorn who doesn't want to be king. Here, you show what
Tolkien only hinted at: how his love for Arwen and hope for the future
kept him going through even the toughest times. And you evoke the tale
of Luthien in the process, which PJ just left out altogether (grr). Your
language is beautiful.
-----------------------------------
Title: Here You Cannot Leave Me · Author: Alassante · Genres: Drama:
Poetry · ID: 356
Reviewer: Rhapsody · 2006-09-06 22:40:43
This is a heart rendering and beautiful poem about Arwen's grief over
Aragorn's death. Even while I re-read it now, I have goose bumps
crawling over my back and my arms. What I really love about this work is
that it is not too much in words: it might appear small at a first
glance, until you read it.

This work is short and poignant: I simply love the cadence of this poem;
every word carries so much grief and pain as if all hope is lost for her
and even her children cannot compensate for that. It is almost like
Arwen cannot speak no more because the grief chokes her, and every word
is carefully chosen and used at the right moment as a testimony to their
love and life. It feels as if you are there to see it happen and with
this Alassante really shows the scene in question to you. When I reach
the end of Alassantes work I am left with a haunting image of Arwens
demise. But Arwen leaves so much more behind than that, bound to the
mortal fate I can imagine that shortly after this she would leave to die
on the hills of Cerin Amroth. In every word you can taste the bitterness
Elrond predicted.

Besides all of this: knowing and watching your loved one die is so had
to catch in words and this author succeeded in that. Alassante: I would
love to see more poetry coming from you; this work simply speaks volumes
about your talent.
-----------------------------------
Title: The Shield-maid's Dance of Death · Author: Marta · Times: The
Great Years: Poetry · ID: 694
Reviewer: Rhapsody · 2006-09-06 22:53:42
When I read this poem at first, I had no idea what I had to do with the
references to a different poem, which Marta used as an inspiration. I
loved her own lines in this so-called 'filk', so I wondered... why is
she using it? But then it sank in. And the verse kept on repeating in my
head, so I read it again and suddenly it clicked. This poem simply
stands out to me because it has such a perfect fit. The visual of Eowyn
dancing and challenging the Witchking, clinging on to the thirst of
revenge and praying to die an honourable death. The simple mention of
'we' made me go like: go get him Dernhelm! There are so many details of
that moment cleverly woven into this work. It feels full of action, but
it is also very angsty, and yet it gives you hope. I love this portrayal
of one of my favourite moments of the books and it splendidly captured
in this poem!
-----------------------------------
Title: The Oathbreakers · Author: Branwyn · Races: Men: Aragorn
Fixed-Length Ficlets · ID: 42
Reviewer: Gandalfs apprentice · 2006-09-06 23:07:57
Very moving and spooky at the same time. My only quibble is that I don't
consider Boromir one of the faithless dead. He died redeemed, didn't he?
Or is he there as good will? Who knows with ghosts....Aragorn would feel
it this way, in any case.
-----------------------------------
Title: The Groomsman · Author: Elen Kortirion · Races: Dwarves:
Fixed-Length Ficlet · ID: 44
Reviewer: Gandalfs apprentice · 2006-09-06 23:10:32
I was completely mistaken as to the ceremony involved until the end, and
the twist from comedy to sorrow. Very well done!
-----------------------------------
Title: Preparing The Way · Author: Lady Aranel · Genres: Drama: Elves in
Later Ages · ID: 284
Reviewer: Gandalfs apprentice · 2006-09-06 23:17:33
Beautifully done. I am so glad you wrote this scene about a horse and
not about Aragorn, etc. That has been overdone. Having had to put down a
number of beloved pets, I can identify altogether with Legolas here. It
is a good touch to have Aragorn bring an elixir--the right move--and the
friendship and love between all the characters in the story are simply
and convincingly portrayed.

I don't think dealing with death is any easier for us mortals!
-----------------------------------
Title: Lothlorien · Author: laiquendi · Genres: Drama: Poetry · ID: 925
Reviewer: Branwyn · 2006-09-07 00:32:01
The elves seem the most attuned to nature of Tolkien's races, so the
changing seasons provide a fitting metaphor for the history of the elves
of Lothlorien. The language is smooth and elegant, and the narrative is
easy to follow even though most of the characters are not named. (I had
not known that Celeborn left Lothlorien for Rivendell, after Galadriel's
departure). Arwen slips in at the end of the poem, the last elven
resident of the Golden Wood. It seems that both she and the fading woods
have been left forsaken.

A very effective piece of poetry!
-----------------------------------
Title: Drabbles for Lord of the Rings · Author: Llinos · Races: Hobbits:
Fixed-Length Ficlet series · ID: 758
Reviewer: Imhiriel · 2006-09-07 01:30:45
Good summaries of the respective chapters. The best, IMO, were
["Concerning Hobbits"] and ["The Uruk-hai"]: both had a gripping,
compelling rhythm and good pacing.
-----------------------------------
Title: The Oathbreakers · Author: Branwyn · Races: Men: Aragorn
Fixed-Length Ficlets · ID: 42
Reviewer: Imhiriel · 2006-09-07 01:31:09
Very original premise, rather AU, but fascinating. Lyrical style. Strong
emotions captured in so few words.
-----------------------------------
Title: In The Pits Of Utumno · Author: Jay of Lasgalen · Races: Elves ·
ID: 164
Reviewer: Imhiriel · 2006-09-07 01:31:27
Good handling of suspense - it took a few moments before I grasped the
sudden wrench in perspective. The atmosphere of the first part was
especially well-handled.
-----------------------------------
Title: I Will Lift Up Mine Eyes · Author: juno_magic · Races: Men · ID: 698
Reviewer: Imhiriel · 2006-09-07 01:32:25
A highly original look on Gondor's beacons and their guardians. The
thought-provoking topic, underpinned with well-chosen biblical verses,
fits neatly into Tolkien's framework.

Good balance between outward description and introspection. Evocative
prose; the repetition of certain key phrases give the narrative a
compelling rhythm.

It shows believably how and where the contrast between the Númenórean
Exiles and the original inhabitants of Middle-earth might have
manifested itself.
-----------------------------------
Title: Inheritance · Author: Acacea · Races: Men: Steward's Sons
Fixed-Length Ficlets · ID: 524
Reviewer: Imhiriel · 2006-09-07 01:36:07
Spot-on characterisation, concise and perceptive. The circumstances of
this dialogue between Gandalf and Faramir - the latter's desire to be
told how his father died and the former's reluctance - heighten the
meaning and impact of this comparison between Denethor and his son. The
drabble is very well-structured and compelling towards its incisive climax.
-----------------------------------
Title: Farewell Lullaby · Author: Armariel · Races: Hobbits: Poetry ·
ID: 719
Reviewer: Branwyn · 2006-09-07 02:25:13
Frodo bids farewell to baby Elanor in this sweet lullaby. He recounts
the joys that fatherhood will bring to Sam and is reassured that Sam
will be happy once he is gone. The writer employs the fanciful
vocabulary of fairy stories, sketching the marvels of a child's
imagination--["rainbow hammocks and moonbeam tents"]--but the poem has a
very melancholy undertone since Frodo will miss seeing Elanor grow and
will never have children of his own. He is also reminded of the
wholeness and innocence which were taken from him by the Quest.
["..of stainless snowfalls
ghostless dreams..."]
I enjoyed this poem; it is sweet and gentle but also sad in the context
of Frodo's leavetaking.
-----------------------------------
Title: Shin to Toe to Thigh to Mind · Author: Talasi · Genres: Romance ·
ID: 369
Reviewer: MarzBar · 2006-09-07 06:14:39
I found this last night because I read a review and was intrigued. After
finally reading it straight through (I kept stopping to read and re-read
the poetry) I was left breathless. The quotes following reminded me so
vividly of my love who is so far away from me in Australia, I had to
quote them to him in a letter and jump up and mail the letter to him
this morning:

{Kisses my shoulder
Cradles his body
Behind mine
Shin to toe to thigh to mind
. . . . . . . . . . . .

Kisses my shoulder
Cradles his body
Behind mine

My protector, my guardian, my soul & Haldir

Shin to toe to thigh to mind
Shin to toe to thigh to mind to mine}

He protected me so well in ways I didn't understand until we were
separated by space and time. He often said, in his prosaic Aussie
fashion, "there's nothing better than bum in lap." You say it so much
better. I have been sending others to the story, just for the sheer
beauty of the poetry and the expression of unconditional love.

Thank you for sharing your talent with us.
-----------------------------------
Title: The Fading of a Star · Author: Minuialeth · Genres: Drama:
General Fixed-Length Ficlet · ID: 219
Reviewer: Rhapsody · 2006-09-07 18:07:00
[Let it be said, at the end of time, that thy brief love withstood
eternity.] I think this line from this drabble is the most poignant one.
Erestor grieves for the loss of Arwen, who has chosen, just like Luthien
choose for the fate of men. But this line and the whole drabble says so
much more: Erestor describes the true love between Arwen and Aragon. It
is a bond for life and that will remain so strong, even beyond the rim
of Arda. Erestor knows he will live forever, but without having her near
or to look upon. As a reader you can sense that it is not easy for
Erestor that this is it is the only form of alleviation he can give at
the moment they part.

Anyway, I am rambling. What makes this drabble very heartbreaking is
that the doubt about the fate of her line is uncertain, even though he
must have seen many children from Aragorns line being raised at
Rivendell, he also had to watch them perish to a world unknown to him.

[Thus spoke Erestor, hiding the tears as he tried to imagine Arwen's
children with human voices, human hearts, human fate...]

How hard must it be to think that her children will face the same
hardships of those who lived before. The fact that he will loose someone
this close to death, shines through in every word of this beautiful
drabble. Even though this is such a short fragment of their long
kinship, which spanned many yens, this is the most significant one.
Beautifully written Minuialeth, I am always amazed how much you can tell
in just 100 words.
-----------------------------------
Title: All Those Who Wander · Author: daw the minstrel · Races: Elves:
Featuring Mirkwood Elves · ID: 209
Reviewer: Imhiriel · 2006-09-07 18:40:07
Well-drawn, nuanced relationships; the interaction between the family
members in particular is fantastic. The characters and their emotions
feel very real. You show realistically and very moving how the death of
wife and mother affected Thranduil's family.
Good use of the respective PoVs. The way of life in Mirwood is depicted
vividly and plausibly, creating a fully-rounded society. I like how the
plot and plot threads gradualy reveal themselves.
-----------------------------------
Title: Somewhere to Belong · Author: Lily · Races: Hobbits: Pre-Quest ·
ID: 942
Reviewer: Imhiriel · 2006-09-07 18:40:42
Moving story, both Frodo's recollections of the death of his parents,
and his interaction with Pippin. The surroundings are described clearly
and evocatively.
-----------------------------------

Sulriel,

Three of her stories are on your 'skip' list. They are:

Alas, for the dying of the trees

Work Detail

Jewel.

Two of these have reviews attached, and I assume are the ones you reviewed this morning.

I wonder if you didn't choose a status (draft/hidden/final) and somehow it chose the wrong one for you, and set it to 'skip'.

For now, you (all of you) should look at your 'skip list' by going to the story filter and filtering for stories you have reviewed and choosing 'skip' to see if there are any on that list that you have reviewed. Even though it says 'enter new review', if you click on it, your review is there. Nothing has been lost, it's just that the wrong status has been assigned.

I'll try to look at the code tonight and see if I can tell what's up, and fix it.

I'll also skim the database for stories that have review text, but have status = skip. Those are probably not supposed to be so, like yours.

Finally, for those of you who are liaisons or categorizers, I'll see what I can do to clean up the action list on the right hand side of the story browse page. There's way too much stuff there, and some of it is just worded poorly, or shouldn't be there because it doesn't make sense. I'll check for regular users as well.

Later,
Anthony

----- Original Message ----
From: sulriel <Sulriel@htcomp.net>

I jumped back into reviewing this morning after catching up with
some RL stuff and had a wierd thing happen.

I reviewed two of GA's stories, finalized the reviews then refreshed
the main screen - and they were gone.

<snip>

have I broken something or am I simply very confused. ? :(






[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]

sulriel wrote:

> I jumped back into reviewing this morning after catching up with
> some RL stuff and had a wierd thing happen.
>
> I reviewed two of GA's stories, finalized the reviews then refreshed
> the main screen - and they were gone.

Well, are you certain you clicked in the second screen: save validated
review instead of preview? I know that sometimes in a hurry you can
forget that. Because the order you are describing here is that the
system takes you to the main menu after you saved your validated review
instead of refreshing it yourself.

> logged in as myself, I show that she has 14 stories nominated and
> that I've reviewed four of them (NOT including the two I reviewed
> this morning). It did say 16 this morning and the two disappeared
> off my list after I reviewed them. BUT the four I reviewed in the
> past are still there. - I know that the finalized reviews are
> posted to the public once a week, but shouldn't I still be able to
> see the ones I've put in?

The finalised reviews are posted daily now ;) But yes. Try out some
filters. Maybe you saved them as hidden or drafts. That might explain
that they are no longer on the wish list.

> when I log in as admin, I see that she has 17 stories nominated,
> including the two I reviewed this morning, but my reviews aren't
> being displayed, either in the finalized count or the draft or
> hidden and I don't see any kind of 'pending' display for the reviews
> that become available once a week.

There is no pending diplay, when you click on reviews now and you go to
the last page, you can see your finalised reviews immediately.

>
> have I broken something or am I simply very confused. ? :(

Well, maybe you forgot to press save validated review... That's my only
guess for now. If not Anthony can have a look at it.

Good luck

Rhapsody

--- In MEFAwards@yahoogroups.com, Anthony Holder <aaholder@...>
wrote:

>
> Sulriel,
>
> Three of her stories are on your 'skip' list. They are:
>
> Alas, for the dying of the trees
>
> Work Detail
>
> Jewel.
>
> Two of these have reviews attached, and I assume are the ones you

reviewed this morning.

>

ok- then I did just confuse myself.

I initially put all the stories on either a skip or wish list, but
then have moved some off the wish list if I wanted to skip them but
maybe come back to them later, and so I started adding the ones I
finalized the reviews on to the skip list so they wouldn't show back
up in the main list. and it looks like I was away for too long and
crossed my wires ...


...note to myself: no reviewing before the second cup of coffee
each morning.

- sorry for the confusion

Oh. That makes sense.

You did the review, saved it, then before you refreshed, you hit the
'wish' link (which would have disappeared if you refreshed first). I'm
using the 'status' field to hold wish/skip/draft/hidden/final, so you
changed the status from 3 (final) or 2 (hidden) to -1 (wish).

I have edited the 'wish' and 'skip' page, so it won't change a
'draft/hidden/final'. It puts up a note saying to close the window and
refresh the page with the skip or wish link. That should stop this from
happening again.

Sulriel, I just looked through the database to see if there were any
others that had Skip or Wish, and had something in the review text. All
of these are yours. You should go check the reviews for these 4
stories.

+----------+---------+
| personid | storyid |
+----------+---------+
| 7 | 174 |
| 7 | 707 |
| 7 | 788 |
| 7 | 790 |
+----------+---------+

Later,
Anthony

Title: Merrys Present · Author: Mariole · Times: Late Third Age: The
Shire · ID: 639
Reviewer: Imhiriel · 2006-09-07 18:41:06
The descriptions of the setting, of the sights and sounds, are very
evocative. Frodo explained things well for Merry, deepening his
understanding and empathy.
-----------------------------------
Title: A Taste of Diplomacy · Author: Thevina Finduilas · Races:
Cross-Cultural · ID: 939
Reviewer: Imhiriel · 2006-09-07 18:41:25
I think that's the first story I've seen about a young Denethor. You
have captured that awkward stage of youth well, while his thoughts
reveal that he is both observant and intelligent. The settings are
sketched with a few clear descriptions, and the cross-cultural scenes
are interesting.
-----------------------------------
Title: In The Pits Of Utumno · Author: Jay of Lasgalen · Races: Elves ·
ID: 164
Reviewer: Angmar · 2006-09-07 23:02:18
Elatan the elf has decided on a bold plan to rescue his friend, Elendur,
from Utumno, Melkor's first stronghold. Going cautiously along the sides
of the main hall, he makes his way to the lower levels of the prison,
where finally he is successful in finding Elendur lying on a pile of
filthy rags. His companion obviously has been tortured and mistreated.
Tossing his cloak over his wretched friend's shoulders, he leads him up
the flights of stairs to the main hall, where they find that none other
than Melkor himself is holding court. Before them, one guard patrols a
tunnel that leads upward to safety. When Elatan turns around, he finds
someone blocking the passage - Melkor!
In a surprise ending, we learn that "Elatan" and "Elendur" are really
the elf twins, Elrohir and Elladan, who are playing a game about
escaping Utumno after their father had told them about it. A good story
with a surprise ending.
-----------------------------------
Title: Requiem · Author: Rhapsody · Times: First Age and Prior:
Incomplete · ID: 218
Reviewer: Angmar · 2006-09-07 23:37:36
Knowledge has come to Celegorm that his wolf hound, Haun, has just died.
He thinks of their past together and how they have been master and hound
since Orome gave the hound to him back in Valinor long before. Though
the dog left him three times, he returned to Celegorm twice. Though the
creature had great love and loyalty for his master, he still had more
for the beautiful Luthien, who his master also loved.
Haun in the halls of Mandos reflects on his years of service to his
master, and how, even though he left him when the animal was dying, he
wished only to feel the hand of his old friend and owner upon his death.
Haun does not stay long in the halls and is liberated to go back to
Orome, but the dog is not satisfied without Celegorm.
Still his theme in the Song is not over and his destiny may lie in
reassuming his place as the leader of the pack of Valinor's hounds.
The Silmarillion is a book that many people stay away from because they
think it is a hard read, but the author did a very good job on a
difficult topic.
-----------------------------------
Title: A Rabbits Tale · Author: grey_wonderer · Times: Fourth Age and
Beyond: The Shire · ID: 982
Reviewer: Inkling · 2006-09-08 08:29:19
I love this story and its narrator. Errol is a wonderfully wise,
self-possessed stuffed rabbit, making the most of his limited
perspective from the wardrobe, stoically accepting his [luck or fate or
whatever it is that drags us all around by the ears].

My favorite passage: [once I was certain that Pippin was sleeping I
allowed my mind to drift to my own thoughts and concerns. Yes, stuffed
rabbits do have concerns but I'll not explain those now.]

The moment of crisis, when Errol calls Pippin out of his nightmares, is
profoundly sad on several levels, for it is the voice that children can
hear but adults outgrow, and because it can now evoke the evil memory of
another voice in Pippin's head.

The ending is perfect...heart-warming without ever becoming sappy or
sentimental. A truly delightful tale!


-----------------------------------
Title: Demand and You Shall Receive · Author: grey_wonderer · Genres:
Humor: Children · ID: 159
Reviewer: Inkling · 2006-09-08 08:32:58
This story is hilarious! At first, we are as charmed by Pippin's little
bells as Frodo is. But gradually we come to realize that they serve much
the same function as belling a cat: to give potential prey fair warning
of Pippins approach. (OK, maybe it's really so his aunt can find him
easily, but the first explanation seems more apt...this child is a
darling little terror who takes no prisoners.) Merry, as the
eye-rolling, know-it-all eleven-year-old, and Frodo, as the increasingly
flustered, hopelessly outmatched narrator, are wonderfully drawn as
well...I love the interactions between these three cousins in GW's stories.


-----------------------------------
Title: Oaths Foresworn · Author: Rhapsody · Times: First Age and Prior ·
ID: 315
Reviewer: digdigil · 2006-09-08 12:31:47
This vignette is a slice of life, and not a pretty one. If anyone would
like to know what it was like to experience, say, one hour as one of
Fëanors sons in their tragic, tormented lives after the kinslaying,
look no further than this story.

From the opening paragraph, this vignette hits the reader strongly in
the gut with its stark realism and emotional cacophony, and does not
pull its punches. When it opens, it is at the time right after Fëanors
twin sons, Amrod and Amras, have been slain. Actually, Amrod is not yet
dead, but with his last dying breaths, he speaks to his two oldest
brothers, Maglor and Maedhros, and extracts promises from them both that
they will look after his wife and children.

Amrod is an interesting, complicated character and a true Fëanorion: he
is proud of holding true to his fathers oath, but laments doing so
because he does not like the ruin he perceives he and his brothers have
wreaked upon the world.

Maedhros and Maglor, interesting characters themselves, clearly feel
bereft and almost helpless, floundering as they are upon the sea of
their own grief and self-realization, making their last empty promises
to their dying brother.

What wonderful characterizations and heart-tugging emotional description
there is in this terrific story of foolhardiness and regret.


-----------------------------------
Title: Shattered Twilight · Author: Rhapsody · Genres: Drama: First Age
Elves · ID: 247
Reviewer: digdigil · 2006-09-08 12:34:59
This is a very emotional ficlet that tears at the readers heartstrings.
In the first sentence the author uses the word haunt and that word
certainly describes Maeglins state of mind. He describes Idril, his
futile love and whom he calls his muse in terms that only a man
half-crazed with love would use.

There is dramatic use of surprise at the end of the first paragraph when
Maeglin tells us his father poisoned his mother. Then his hopelessness
is described by his words how I wished and How I craved, as if he
realizes he cannot have those things now.

Regret is in his futile questions as he grapples with his fate. Then, at
the end, he accepts it, just like they tell you that people do
eventually, when they know they are going to die. And Maeglin is
resigned to this, knowing that he has ruined his own life, yet he still
pines for Idril.

I love the way the author has shown the progression of Maeglins
thoughts and how she has described his emotional state. This was very
well done. One of my favorites by this author.

-----------------------------------
Title: Letters in the sand · Author: Rhapsody · Races: Elves: Feanorians
· ID: 176
Reviewer: digdigil · 2006-09-08 12:36:58
I love the existentialist nature of this fic. It is a tale told in five
parts, where Maglor is examining his feelings about, first, being his
fathers pawn, to his rage against the Valar, his rage upon realizing
his lovers betrayal and at his flesh being burned. Finally, he reflects
upon his now empty life and considers his fate.

This story is very thoughtful and insightful, albeit short. It mentions
Maglors feelings about all the above things without delving deeply into
his emotions. His mind must have been in turmoil when he was reflecting
on all of the tragedies that had touched his life.

This story was very thought-provoking, and personally, I would love to
see it expanded. It may be subjective, but I love to read theories about
Maglors fate.

-----------------------------------
Title: Lay of Lord and Lady · Author: Vana Tuivana · Genres: Drama:
Poetry · ID: 629
Reviewer: digdigil · 2006-09-08 12:46:24
This clever poem relates the tale of Aredhel, White Lady of the Noldor
and her husband, the Dark Elf Eöl. Most of the stanzas carry a reference
to either lightness or darkness. This theme runs as a thread through the
poem.

The contrast between light and dark is used very well to illustrate the
differences between Eöl and Aredhel, a lady who was attracted to a man
who was her opposite.

This poem reads like a ballad. It is full of angsty sentiment suited to
that type of poem. This particular story of Tolkiens lends itself
particularly well to this type of vehicle.

-----------------------------------
Title: Strange Fortunes · Author: Tehta · Times: First Age and Prior:
Incomplete · ID: 81
Reviewer: digdigil · 2006-09-08 12:48:17
This is a beautifully-written story with multiple characters and an
intricate plot. The interactions between the characters are very
cleverly described and are probably the most entertaining thing about
this story. Each character is unique and exquisitely drawn. The author
makes it very clear which characters the reader is supposed to either
like or view with sympathy: Glorfindel, Idril, Egalmoth; and who the
reader should dislike intensely: Salgant and possibly Maeglin; but she
has made the characters of Ecthelion and Maeglin (again) so sympathetic
that while the reader knows that Ecthelion is supposed to be good and
Maeglin bad, somehow the lines that separate their characters
goodness or badness are made a little fuzzy, and both of these
characters are shown to be flawed but not at all unattractive.

The intriguing nature of the characterizations and the characters
relationships with each other help to create a most intriguing story
that is impossible to put down. The intricate plot fits in well with
Tolkiens story of the fall of Gondolin, filling in very many of the
gaps that Tolkien left.

The author cleverly infuses this story with original poetry and great
wit and humor. And although the humor is wickedly clever and almost
subversive, the story still remains within the spirit of Tolkiens
writing, which was not without its own humor, although confined more to
Lord of the Rings than The Silmarillion. How clever of the author to
replace the funny hobbits of LoTR with some amusing denizens of Gondolin.

Gondolin still remains a beautiful, majestic place within the story by
the authors descriptions, and Turgon is still a ruler of great dignity
and far-reaching vision, despite the antics of some of his citizens.

I think that this delightful story is one of the best I have ever read
in the fan fiction universe.
-----------------------------------
Title: The Gift of Time · Author: Rhapsody · Genres: Drama:
Pre-Fellowship · ID: 812
Reviewer: digdigil · 2006-09-08 14:28:40
This is a good story with an intriguing, myseterious first paragraph. It
makes the reader wonder who Daddy is. There is vivid imagery in the
second paragraph, which makes us want to know more about the victim. The
author cleverly establishes sympathy for the son who lost his father by
the descriptions of him: He is too young and has a cold hand.

When I found out that the narrator is Aragorns father, I was fascinated
to read something about him. He is not written about a great deal among
the fan fiction I have read so far, so I found story quite refreshing
and immediately wanted to know more about Arathorn.

Arathorn ensures the boys loyalty before he leaves him to return to his
beloved wife and son. This is a nice touchit shows us something of
Arathorns characterthat he would show one of his subjects such
sympathy and compassion, thus ensuring their fealty to him. I thought
this was well done by the writer. There is also good contrast shown
between the two families: Arathorns is intact where the young boys is not.

The last paragraph tells us more about Arathorns characterthat he is
wise and far-seeing in his attempt to not only be compassionate with the
boy but also to ensure that his followers will support him when time and
war necessitates this.

This is a well-written, emotional short story, with strong
characterizations and vivid descriptions. I would recommend it as good
reading for anyone who likes stories about the Dunedain.
-----------------------------------
Title: In The Pits Of Utumno · Author: Jay of Lasgalen · Races: Elves ·
ID: 164
Reviewer: Isabeau of Greenlea · 2006-09-08 22:22:47
OK, you got me cold there. For a while, I was believing this was a Silm
fic, and I laughed out loud when I realized what was actually happening.
Glorfindel does indeed have a great deal to answer for, and no doubt
eventually "Melkor" will catch up with him.

Gotta love them twins, but it's a miracle Elrond wasn't totally grey by
the time of his Council.
-----------------------------------
Title: The Silent Street · Author: Sophinisba Solis · Races: Hobbits:
Merry & Pippin · ID: 65
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2006-09-09 02:44:53
This story is an amazing bit of atmospheric writing. Merry, still
recovering from his bout with the Witch-king in the Houses of Healing
wishes to come to grips with his clouded memories of the aftermath.
None of his physical surroundings strike a chord in him, as Pippin takes
him back to where he found him. But his description of what he
saw/felt/heard, wreathed in the blackness of his despair, does strike a
chord in his cousin. The desciption of their journey into the Rath
Dinen, and Merry's recognition of the place he's never been sent chills
down my spine.

The story *is* slash--so I have to confess I did skip some of it near
the end--but it by no means diminishes the power of the prose, nor the
despair that the cousins endured near the end of the Quest.

A beautiful piece of writing.
-----------------------------------
Title: The Healer and the Warrior · Author: Madeleine · Genres: Romance:
Lothíriel & Éomer · ID: 140
Reviewer: julia · 2006-09-09 14:41:51
A great beginning story to one of my favorite E/L series ever. I think
the fact that we, the readers, figure out that Lothiriel's nameless
patient is Eomer long before she does adds a certain sense of fun to a
story that is humorous in some parts and quite serious in others. And
the hug is in the last chapter is great, presages a very sexy kiss in
the next installment.
-----------------------------------
Title: To Become A Queen · Author: Madeleine · Genres: Romance:
Lothíriel & Éomer · ID: 157
Reviewer: julia · 2006-09-09 14:49:47
Yay, finally the wedding between our favorite couple and at least the
beginning of what promises to be very enjoyable wedding night for both
of them. The wedding feast is also very well done, with the antics of
Lothiriel's brothers, Gimli's most inappropriate toasts, and lots of
other fun. I also like your characterization of Aragorn, he and Eomer's
conversations are funny and well-written.
-----------------------------------
Title: Legend · Author: Raksha the Demon · Times: Fourth Age and Beyond:
Gondor · ID: 933
Reviewer: Imhiriel · 2006-09-10 01:31:41
Shows in descriptive, well-chosen details the difference between reality
and ["Legend"]. The subtly formal language feels very appropriate for
her as the view-point-character.
Éowyn's memories, especially of what she actually felt, are evocative. I
like it that, although she sees her youthful errors, she would do it
again if need be, because in the end, and despite what else might have
motivated her, it was worth it.
This made me smile: ["They say he is like me; I know not. He is very
young and impudent."] and wonder if she said it half in jest.
-----------------------------------
Title: Strength of a River · Author: Acacea · Races: Men: Gondor · ID: 513
Reviewer: Imhiriel · 2006-09-10 01:32:52
Wonderful evocation of the beauty and peril of Ithilien and those who
guard it with dedication and love, especially, of course, Faramir.
His unusual wish to be a river so he can see the sea ring very true to
Faramir and his Númenórean heritage.
The words about the Anduin and the ["strength of a river"] are poignant
and moving.
-----------------------------------
Title: A Meara for Me! · Author: Súlriel · Genres: Non-Fiction · ID: 893
Reviewer: Oshun · 2006-09-10 03:48:48
This is a well written piece of work, which serves an excellent resource
for writers. For those of us who are not experts on horses, but who have
multiple horses in our stories it is invaluable. I have looked at it
many times for the pleasure of looking at these horses. It provides
inspiration and understanding of the horses that writers necessarily
will include in almost any Tolkien fanfic. Recently, I found exactly the
horse I needed for my current work-in-progress. True I picked a stallion
and turned it into a mare, but she would have been a far less
interesting, and certainly less beautiful, without Sulriel's guide.
-----------------------------------
Title: Home Again · Author: Súlriel · Times: Early Third Age:
Fixed-Length Ficlet · ID: 863
Reviewer: Oshun · 2006-09-10 03:58:29
This is a deftly written, elegant, humorous drabble about, of all
things, a love affair between a common tom cat and one of Queen
Beruthiel's cats. I nearly missed this ficlet--saw and passed it by a
couple of times! Did I really want to read a drabble about a cat? What a
pleasant surprise--don't miss it.
-----------------------------------
Title: Theme and Variations · Author: Gandalfs apprentice · Genres:
Humor: Gondor · ID: 784
Reviewer: Oshun · 2006-09-10 05:05:56
To say that this story approaches how Jane Austen might have written
Tolkien is in no way a misnomer and the combination works on every
level. Gossip, match-making, misunderstanding, and unsolicited opinions
abound. The tale telling and speculation about both Thorongil and
Aragorn (first, as individuals and, after a shocking-to-some revelation,
as one and same) are priceless and hilarious. One of the things that
makes this story different is that it is simultaneously wildly funny and
thought-provoking.

This is a comedy of manners with a solid core of serious observations.
The opening line draws me right in: [Faramir was looking forward to an
unexpectedly happy future.] (Very Jane Austen.) Gandalfs_apprentice has
a wide range, but her true obsession is writing about Aragorn. In this
case, she does extremely well at giving us Aragorn through Faramirs
eyes. I love that idea and it is executed perfectly here. The story is
carefully crafted, a pleasure to read, and is able to deal in an
appropriately (in relation to the genre of the story) light tone with
difficult and painful subjectsDenethor, for example. There is no joking
about him. But while staying completely within the context and tone the
author has chosen, Faramir is able to somewhat integrate his
understanding of this still raw subject.

Canon characters are accurately and sensitively portrayed while some
memorable original characters are introduced: the dreadful aunt that
everybody loves to hate stands out. Meanwhile the quiet, sensitive,
intelligent aunt (harder to do in a comedic piece) is fully drawn as
well. Aragorn and Faramir are both wonderfully and convincingly done.
Put this one on your short list of absolute must-reads this year.

-----------------------------------
Title: An Empty Saddle to Fill · Author: Anoriath · Races: Men: Vignette
· ID: 752
Reviewer: Perelleth · 2006-09-10 14:19:18
This vignette gains its full weight with the quotes from UT at the
beginning. Theodred's death is a sad, yet most understated effects of
Saruman's machinations. His bookverse death is far more impressive (of
course) than movieverse. He knew he had been ambushed and he asked to be
left there to die on the field, wishing to protect the Ford with his
death.He must have felt that all was in vain and that all he had fighted
for and was due to potect would be lost to darkness.

Life in the Riddermark few years prior to the return of the King to
Gondor must have been quite desperate, and surely Theodred must have
been a stalwart support for his two younger cousins, even if he felt the
hopelessness of it all.

It is heartrending to feel his impotence, despite his anger, even as a
grown-up, battle hardened warrior, and the King's heir, before the
subtle machinations of the worm, (Saruman's) but yet he's determined to
protect his fair cousin even beyond death... A sad, moving tale of one
who did not live to see better days. Nice job!

-----------------------------------
Title: Good Neighbors · Author: daw the minstrel · Genres: Adventure ·
ID: 818
Reviewer: Perelleth · 2006-09-10 14:33:45
I think tis was one of the first fanfics I ever read, and I was so
lucky! Daw's Mirkwood Universe is firmly canon based. She draws the time
line and much inspiration from the tale of the years, and so there are
always pieces of canon floating along the tale to ground it even deeply
in Tolkien's universe.

In this tale there are a lot of canon details: a visit from Mithranidir,
a reference to Celebrían's incident, a visit form the grief-stricken
twins...and of course, the enchanting of the Enchanted River and
Thranduil's wary attitude towards men.

But it was the magic that finally captured me, apart form the well
written characters and interactions, the children fostering a lost human
child, the wild middle-brother learning that grief may cause grief to
others...but above them, Thranduil King of the forest emerges in all his
strength.

When he casts his spell on the river he is just drawing form his natural
connection with the forest, and from all elves' deep atunement to the
substance of Arda. It reminded me of that quote from the elves in
Lórien, when the hobbits ask if the cloaks they are given are magical
and they answer "& the magic of the rocks, the trees the waters, the
things that we love.. I think that is more or less what Thranduil does
here, and it comes out with a eerie beauty, a very powerful image.

All parts of the sotry come perfectly and neatly tied up together in the
end, and there are no "winners" at all, only different shades of grey,
much as in life.
-----------------------------------
Title: A Matter of Honor · Author: meckinock · Races: Cross-Cultural:
Incomplete · ID: 208
Reviewer: Perelleth · 2006-09-10 15:17:54
Mostly told from Halbarad's wry, dry, and very human point of view this
tale is a true adventure. It begins with the heroes on a tight
situation, with Halbarad riding a wounded and tired Aragorn to
Rivendell, in the company of a troublesome hobbit and Gandalf. A tense
episode of hero-almost-drowned in the river ensues, and they are all
dragged into Rivendell's safety in a state that allows Elrond to
practice at pleasure his healing skills.

The unearthing of some old letters from Arathorn casts a cold shower on
Aragorn's hopes, as he suspects that his father might have had another
-illegitimate- heir. He starts off to search for that lost heir, and
stubborn Halbarad follows. Some adventures and difficult situations
worth of "the adventures of the three musketeers beyond the age of
retirement, them being just two," follow, and right now we are biting
our nails wondering how our heros will come out from the frying pan.

But under Halbarad's dry sense of humour and saracstic approach, and his
distrustful regard of the elves, lies a profound tale of relationships
based on deep respect, among people of different races who are burdened
with great responsiblities and who know they are all playing in the same
side and for a prize larger than any of their own lives. With some other
clueless ones threw in for good effect as well.

The conversations in Rivendell are deep and moving, between Aagorn and
Elrond, Elrond and Halbarad, Gandalf and Elrond, while Elladan makes a
lovely fool of himself and Elrohir nails down perfectly the profound
differences between Elves and Men in a wine-soaked conversation with
Halbarad.

And after all that elven environment, you go and manage to make us feel
at home when we reach the Angle, the cold, weathered, uncomfortable,
harsh Angle with Halbarad. That's masterful, ranger.
-----------------------------------
Title: Awaiting The Thaw · Author: Bodkin · Genres: Romance · ID: 953
Reviewer: Perelleth · 2006-09-10 15:26:23
A nice backstory for Elladan's wife, perfectly condensed. Even if one is
not familiar with the adventures of Elrond's twin sons in Valinor, this
piece is a perfect stand alone. The anguish of those dark days in
Middle-earth in perfectly depicted in the first chapter, with the twins
frozen in their relentless grief. One can never doubt that these elves
must have been truly blissful in Valinor. The difference comes out
clearly in the second chapter, as the hunt begins in all seriousness,
Elrohir and Legolas try to trap her, they all behave like elflings and
the elleth shows an inmpressive retraint.
-----------------------------------

Title: The White Tree · Author: Linda Hoyland · Races: Men: Featuring
Aragorn · ID: 94
Reviewer: Timmy2222 · 2006-09-10 15:26:59
This is such a refreshing and nice story and the words which sum it up
are compassion and friendship. The relationship between Aragorn and his
Steward tends to be neglected as Tolkien wrote about it only shortly. So
this gives the reader a view into both hearts and minds: Aragorn seeks
Faramir's friendship and the Steward is too afraid to let it happen, but
envies the Hobbits for their easy-going with the King.
And there's more to this story: the fine humor that gives the character
a heart and that warm and fuzzy feeling, i.e. that Aragorn quitted
smoking pipeweed for Arwen. Now if that isn't love I don't know what
would be! LOL
Like the other stories by Linda, this is a heart-warming episode about a
king and his way of dealing with the small problems of day-to-day life.
-----------------------------------
Title: First Impressions · Author: Bodkin · Races: Men: Featuring
Aragorn · ID: 806
Reviewer: Perelleth · 2006-09-10 15:35:12
I'm always speechless before your descriptions, Bodkin. Halbarad's home
seems so real *and* cold, damp and "unhomely house," compared to
Imladris thropugh the house of the newly minted and wet- behind- the-
ear chieftain!

Poor Estel, he seems ot be suffering the like first day at boarding
school or at summer camp effect, missing home and Dad and brothers and
Glorfindel, while being shadowed by Halbadrad, nonetheless!

Amusing, despite all, the contrast between the disoriented newcomer and
the well at ease, mildly sarcasty and and clearly focused on "other"
matters Ranger and kin.

It seems an appropriate beginning for a long friendship.
-----------------------------------
Title: Shadow of Himself · Author: EdorasLass · Genres: Alternate
Universe: Post-Grey Havens · ID: 853
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2006-09-10 18:05:37
An interesting and fascinating idea, and well-handled. The emotions and
reactions of Legolas and Gimli ring so very true. I like the way the
author leaves Boromir's survival a mystery--was he truly dead? Or has he
simply been given a new life? Very well thought out.
-----------------------------------
Title: Paradox of the Fourth Age · Author: Alassante · Genres: Alternate
Universe: Incomplete · ID: 106
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2006-09-10 18:10:29
In this AU, Aragorn did not take the Paths of the Dead, and so all of
Middle-earth was lost to Sauron. In an effort to put things right, the
Valar send Laureanna, daughter of Glorfindel off to rewrite history into
its proper shape. Although there are some places where the story borders
on a Mary Sue, it never quite falls into that trap completely, and she
is an engaging character in an intriguing situation.
-----------------------------------
Title: Today · Author: annmarwalk · Genres: Romance: Rohan · ID: 199
Reviewer: Branwyn · 2006-09-10 19:08:12
I am not a fan of slash and tend to avoid it like the plague. With the
exception of annmarwalk's stories. Her Boromir and Theodred are so
well-written and likeable and the details of their relationship are so
entertaining that I can put aside my fundamental disbelief in
gay!Boromir. Neither man is forced into the stereotypical role of the
self-abasing, simpering, feminine partner. Their relationship is based
on respect and friendship (along with a healthy dose of lust).

In this ficlet, Theodred believes that he and Boromir must enjoy the
present moment because their lives will soon be ended in battle. I think
that is a common attitude among soldiers who have lived in danger for a
long time, and it gives this story an ominous feel since we know that
these two are doomed.

One reviewer asked if the writer was implying that Theodred had
foresight; otherwise, why would he assume that he and Boromir were going
to die young? Tolkien makes it clear that Gondor and her allies are
losing; there is a manpower shortage, and their forces are being pushed
back. Boromir admits as much at the Council of Elrond. In the ficlet,
Boromir and his hosts discuss [reports of new terrors from East or
South]; the tidings are getting darker. The situation is deteriorating,
and unless help arrives from unexpected quarters, they are doomed to die
in the defense of their lands.

Wonderful details add realism and bring the characters to life--the
[lumpy horsehair mattress] in Theodred's chamber, Boromir's
"unsoldierly" love of creature comforts like a hot bath, Boromir's hair
being washed by Theodred, the spiced hazelnuts that the old nurse brings
especially for Boromir.

Another lovingly-crafted ficlet from the pen of annmarwalk!


-----------------------------------
Title: Metamorphosis · Author: wenont · Genres: Alternate Universe:
Incomplete · ID: 672
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2006-09-10 20:06:00
A cyborg in Rivendell. Interesting premise, but I don't see where the
story is going. I like the Elves' reactions.
-----------------------------------
Title: Come When You Are Ready · Author: EdorasLass · Genres: Alternate
Universe · ID: 795
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2006-09-10 20:08:33
A very chilling AU premise: what if Denethor survived setting himself on
fire for a time? What would he go through in his pain and fever? And how
would Faramir react. Very well done.
-----------------------------------
Title: Passing Regrets · Author: Ariel · Races: Hobbits: Pre-Quest · ID: 657
Reviewer: White Gull · 2006-09-10 20:27:53
This was a sweet and wonderful look into Bilbo & Frodo's meeting. I
found myself loving Bilbo as I did when I first read "The Hobbit," and
that, dear Ariel, is praise indeed.
-----------------------------------
Title: Counterpoint, Interfolio - Scherzo · Author: Daffodil Bolger ·
Races: Hobbits: Pre-Quest · ID: 617
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2006-09-10 20:43:05
Little Pippin, the voyeur! This is truly adorable! I love Pippin in
this--he is a clever and intelligent child, filled with curiousity and
speculations, and we follow his thoughts down all sorts of interesting
side paths as he invents lovely words like ["chilly-warm", "whoosh-drag"
and "slip-drop"]. His thoughts are perfectly in character, and he is a
sharp observer, but his observations are colored by his childish
ignorance, and he does not necessarily understand all he sees. He does
understand the important thing--he knows love and happiness when he sees
it. In spite of the slashy implications, I liked this very much, and am
very glad little Pippin allowed me to enjoy this moment of warmth with him.
-----------------------------------
Title: Music Lessons · Author: Acacea · Races: Men: Gondor · ID: 55
Reviewer: EdorasLass · 2006-09-10 21:27:35
This is a peaceful snapshot of a very young Faramir and Gandalf. I love
how patient Gandalf is with Faramir, and how willing he is to teach him
something as simple as bird calls. And Faramir is perfectly charming, in
his eagerness to learn, in his shy worry that he might be imposing on
Gandalf, and in his hesitancy to disturb Boromir with such an
unimportant matter. It must be new for him, to not be able to run to
Boromir with any question on his mind.
A lovely dynamic between these two characters - I do wish that Gandalf
and Faramir had gotten more scenes together in the books, to explore
their friendship a little more in depth.


-----------------------------------
Title: The Steward and the Wizard · Author: Acacea · Genres: Drama:
Gondor Fixed-Length Ficlet · ID: 522
Reviewer: EdorasLass · 2006-09-10 21:44:03
I find this to be a quietly telling moment. Faramir is so wholehearted
in his excitement to see Gandalf, yet a single look from his father
stops him in his tracks. It's rather poignant to see how uncertain and
reserved Faramir becomes when confronted with his father's displeasure,
even at this young age.
And even though you don't state it explicitly, Denethor's envy at
knowing that Faramir is in some ways more comfortable with Gandalf comes
through quite clearly. When written so well, as this is, it's easier to
understand why Denethor was not overly fond of the Grey Wanderer.
-----------------------------------
Title: Inheritance · Author: Acacea · Races: Men: Steward's Sons
Fixed-Length Ficlets · ID: 524
Reviewer: EdorasLass · 2006-09-10 21:57:47
I've always wondered who had the unenviable task of explaining to
Faramir how his father died, and I think Gandalf would have been the
best person to do so. While he does sound bitter, I also hear
frustration in Faramir's voice, along with the deep need to know what
happened, and it's likely a lot of other people would have been cowed by
Faramir's resemblance to Denethor. In a situation like this, where he's
bound and determined to get the information he wants, that resemblance
is increased, but you show very well that, while Faramir may display
aspects of his father's personality, he is his own person in his own right.

-----------------------------------
Title: Was It For This? · Author: aervir · Genres: Drama: General
Fixed-Length Ficlet · ID: 204
Reviewer: EdorasLass · 2006-09-10 22:07:35
This is just painful in its expression of bleakness. It's beautifully
stark, and echoes a question asked throughout history - why have
children and raise them proudly to be strong, honourable men if they
will be cut down so effortlessly and quite possibly for no good reason?
As you well know, I have quite the soft spot for these two, and it just
makes me ache at thinking of Gondor's and Rohan's finest warriors, laid
hastily to rest without the rites and full mourning that they should
both be entitled to. Not that such things would bring them back, of
course - which is the entire point. Ceremony means very little when
one's heart is full to bursting with loss and sorrow. Perfectly gorgeous.
-----------------------------------
Title: Dance on the Way Down · Author: Aliana · Races: Men:
Post-Sauron's Fall · ID: 734
Reviewer: EdorasLass · 2006-09-10 22:32:23
This is peaceful, nostalgic, and melancholic all at once, and it's a
lovely mixture. I'm assuming that Eirien is not much older than the
Narrator was when she was first in the House, and the girl's
lightheartedness and openess is quite the contrast to the Narrator's
quieter and more reserved demeanor when she was younger. But of course
that's the point, isn't it? Eirien's generation hasn't experienced life
with the Shadow of Mordor hanging over their heads; they've not known
anything but peace.

The Narrator's rememberances of those days just after the War are
beautifully done, expressing very clearly how difficult those days were
for anyone who lived through them, and those memories are affecting
without being melodramatic - this is what happened, and this is how we
dealt with it. And now we've had twenty years to come to terms with the
aftermath, we're all mostly well adjusted, even if old wounds do
sometimes cause a twinge of pain when we poke at them.

I love her reflections on her husband - there's a strong, solid love
there that doesn't need to be embellished upon to be expressed and it's
very comforting for a reader of "Fallen". Her interaction with Iorlas is
lovely as well, and I like how they share so much about days gone by in
so few words.

And it's a relief to see that the Narrator as an older woman, with a
loving husband and family of her own.
-----------------------------------
Title: Nan Elmoth · Author: Robinka · Genres: Romance: Poetry · ID: 249
Reviewer: Raksha the Demon · 2006-09-10 22:32:43
A lovely concept - the wedding night of an elf-lord and a Maia told in
the form of a sonnet - delivered gracefully. Good allusion to
[sensation], which Thingol and Melian must have been eager to experience
after all those years of standing still...
-----------------------------------
Title: Paper · Author: Dawn Felagund · Races: Elves: Feanorians · ID: 492
Reviewer: Oshun · 2006-09-10 22:34:25
I love those Feanorians--but you are writing in an area where the bar
has been set high. So please do not think I praise this story out of
personal preference, but on its independent merits. I like so many
elements of this story: family interactions, the brothers' carrying-ons
with girls, Curufinwë's sense of estrangement and rich fantasy life, and
Fëanaro as a good father. I love the characterizations. I have to admit,
I would rather spend time in a stationery store than almost anywhere else!
-----------------------------------
Title: Home Again · Author: Súlriel · Times: Early Third Age:
Fixed-Length Ficlet · ID: 863
Reviewer: Raksha the Demon · 2006-09-10 22:40:12
Excellent drabble about one of the better-known cats of Middle-earth,
obviously at the peak of her power and prestige, happily leading a
double life - by night a wild thing catting about with a raffish lover,
by day a pampered feline princess. Very good expression of the allure
and independance of cats.
-----------------------------------
Title: Rest and Recreation · Author: Raksha the Demon · Races:
Cross-Cultural · ID: 700
Reviewer: Oshun · 2006-09-10 22:47:57
I loved this story. Great combination of humor with serious themes and
such wonderful characterization of Boromir. Poor Boromir--pretty elf
indeed!--as soon as one reads that we know the poor guy is in over his
head. But I had to love him for showing his mettle and taking his lesson
so well. Great portrait of Glorfindel. The little bits on Faramir were
subtly well done; and that was such a satisfyingly sly mention of
Aragorn. Appreciated the footnote, as well. All in all a satisfying and
carefully crafted piece.
-----------------------------------
Title: Pride Before The Fall · Author: AmandaK · Genres: Alternate
Universe · ID: 742
Reviewer: EdorasLass · 2006-09-10 22:49:14
Oh, all kinds of evil. Boromir is perfectly terrifying here, striking
down Frodo and running for Minas Tirith, spurred on the Ring. The scene
where he snarls at the bobcat and steals its meal is particularly
disturbing: he really does come across as utterly wild and savage.

The creeping madness, his disregard for his horse, the way he treats the
guards at the City gates - all of these things build up the tension
quite effectively. When he kills the young Guard, that's where it
becomes crystal-clear that we've well and truly lost the Boromir we know
so well. And I love, LOVE that Denethor not only refuses the Ring, but
tries to explain to Boromir why it's nothing but evil and dangerous. Of
course it doesn't work, and though I would have thought it impossible,
Boromir becomes even more frightening at this point! I don't think I saw
that ending coming at all, frankly.

The epilogue is chilling. I really like that the Ring was taken from
Boromir, and that now he is crushed by the memories of all the
unspeakable things he did while under its control. A wonderfully vicious AU.
-----------------------------------
Title: One Summer's Day · Author: Bodkin · Races: Men · ID: 765
Reviewer: EdorasLass · 2006-09-10 22:55:21
This is a lovely portrait of Eomer and Eowyn in their new home at
Edoras. Eomer's worry and frustration with Eowyn is touching, and
Eowyn's sullen temper is very realistic for a child who's been through
what she has. I like how Theodred feels the need to help, and that he's
the one who comes up with the idea of training Eowyn as a Shieldmaiden.
A nice dynamic between the cousins; it's easy to see how they would
become so close in later years.
-----------------------------------
Title: The Tide · Author: Branwyn · Genres: Drama: Gondor Fixed-Length
Ficlet · ID: 77
Reviewer: EdorasLass · 2006-09-10 23:03:39
[Your son has returned, lord, after great deeds.]
For all his self-control, I just can't hear Imrahil saying this in
anything resembling a polite tone. I'm certain that his accusation is
clear, and well it should be.
I imagine him struggling to say just that and nothing else, for fear
that he might loose his temper completely and loose his anger on
Denethor. And I think that Denethor would know Imrahil well enough to
know that he was furious. A very, very tense moment - very well done.
-----------------------------------
Title: The Oathbreakers · Author: Branwyn · Races: Men: Aragorn
Fixed-Length Ficlets · ID: 42
Reviewer: EdorasLass · 2006-09-10 23:25:18
This is definitely an angle I'd never seen before. I hate to think of
Boromir considering himself an oathbreaker, but in all honesty, it does
feel right that he would. Fortunately, he doesn't have to remain in
limbo for years upon years.
Aragorn's reaction is perfect, right down to being afraid he will curse
the dead if he speaks the words he wants to.
Unusual and very effective.

-----------------------------------
Title: Of Herbs and Stewed Rabbit · Author: Altariel · Genres: Drama:
Gondor Fixed-Length Ficlet · ID: 91
Reviewer: Raksha the Demon · 2006-09-11 01:35:05
Excellent crossover between two epics not normally linked in fandom!

Alas, poor Rosemary, her demise at Gollum's hands is well-told from the
point of view of her quicker and more lucky comrade.

I liked the narrator's mention of the elders' knowledge that Ithilien
was once a garden; a theme also found in the wider story of TTT and
ROTK. Hopefully the rabbits will have more places to [silflay], free at
least of danger from [embleer] critters.

Well done!
-----------------------------------
Title: Seeker of Shadow · Author: Raksha the Demon · Genres: Romance:
Fixed-length ficlet · ID: 63
Reviewer: Branwyn · 2006-09-11 02:30:51
In this lyrical yet ominous piece, Eol tries to read the heart of his
wife-to-be Aredhel, fancying that he sees within her a secret yearning
for passion and darkness that cannot be fulfilled by the bland courtiers
of Gondolin. Eol's sardonic use of the language of romantic ballads ([O
White lady so fair] is very effective; his desire seems mingled with
scorn for this cossetted, bored lady with her idealized notions of love.
Though in the Silmarillion, she marries him willingly, there are hints
of entrapment and coercion in this poem--Eol says he can tame her heart
and that having entered his realm, she must remain (sounds a bit like
Dracula, doesn't he?). Certainly subsequent events, when Aredhel leaves
him, indicate a less than happy union between this pair of opposites. In
this ficlet, Eol's diction is shaped by his craft of metalsmithing, and
he uses the imagery of fire and steel when he speaks of attraction
between the sexes. The last stanza, written in the form of a ballad, is
darkly gorgeous.

[Come now, my fair bird, my rare bird.
A white owl thou art, and darkness thy true heart..."]

This piece is beautifully written, in a style which manages to be both
graceful and disturbing, as Eol justifies his treatment of Aredhel. One
suspects that the [seeker of shadow] found more than she bargained for.
-----------------------------------
Title: Man of the North · Author: Marta · Races: Men: Aragorn
Fixed-Length Ficlets · ID: 684
Reviewer: Raksha the Demon · 2006-09-11 18:32:52
Fascinating look inside Thengel's head as he considers a certain ragged
Northern stranger. I loved the comparison between Thorongil and the
younger Thengel when the Eorling was self-exiled to Gondor.
-----------------------------------

Title: Hidden on the Mountain · Author: Imhiriel · Times: The Great
Years: Gondor Fixed-Length Ficlets · ID: 945
Reviewer: dkpalaska · 2006-09-11 18:46:27
I love that this story is told from the point of view of the White Tree
seedling. It's such an unusual perspective. I had never before thought
of the trees' sentience and ability to remain dormant until the proper
time arose, although retrospectively (and upon further reading) I think
it is a valid interpretation. There really is so little written about
the seedlings and much is from the time of Isildur - and certainly that
seedling did plenty of travelling and growing only at the proper time.

Although it's drawing a bit on conjecture, it made sense to me that
Gandalf hides away the seedling, in hope for the future of Middle-earth.
He struggled against the darkness for so long, having to deal with a
mortal form and its limitations, always working quietly and
unobstrusively to bring about Sauron's downfall. I find it unsurprising
that he had the foresight of impending doom (to the King's line) and
hope of the King's eventual return, and thus preserved the White Tree
against both - although of course that is a personal interpretation.

I like the connections drawn between Gandalf and Aragorn, using
repetitive structure to link the two time periods via their voices and
hands. I can read so much into this, without feeling that the work
crowded or rushed - which to me is the mark of an excellent drabble!
-----------------------------------
Title: Beware the Sea · Author: Marta · Races: Elves: Other Fixed-Length
Ficlet · ID: 404
Reviewer: Raksha the Demon · 2006-09-11 19:07:57
A beautiful sextet of drabbles about the effects of sea-longing from the
viewpoints of those effected. One expects Legolas to be in the group,
and his drabble is superb, but the lives of others are also captured in
the ficlets - Elrond, Sam, Maglor, Aldarion, and an unnamed Elf of
Alqualonde. Each drabble takes a different tack, depending on the lives,
character and circumstance of its narrator.

The drabbles dealing with Maglor, Aldarion, Legolas and Elrond stand
out, but all are poignant and evocative, and make the reader wonder what
effect the sea had on Tolkien himself.
-----------------------------------
Title: The White City: Guardians of Gondor · Author: fael_bain · Genres:
Drama · ID: 745
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2006-09-11 22:05:52
I found the idea of Elrohir playing this sort of role at the court of
Elessar implausible.
-----------------------------------
Title: Oasis · Author: Radbooks · Times: Late Third Age · ID: 259
Reviewer: Raksha the Demon · 2006-09-11 22:07:13
Gritty, evocative vignette of a difficult time during Aragorn's southern
journeys. It is a shame that Tolkien did so little to fill in the gaps
in Aragorn's career, but that just makes more fodder for fanfic writers,
and this is a fascinating glimpse into those days, when Aragorn was
neither an Elf-lord's fosterling nor a Steward's favorite, nor the
Chieftain of the Dunedain, but a lonely wanderer through hostile lands.
-----------------------------------
Title: The Arrow · Author: Silivren Tinu · Genres: Drama: Elves in Later
Ages · ID: 958
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2006-09-11 22:19:20
A very interesting little story of how Legolas might feel if he thought
he had accidentally killed another Elf with his arrow. The author made
the scenario seem realistic, and Aragorn's faith in Legolas was well-placed.
-----------------------------------
Title: Fairy Tales of Middle-Earth · Author: DrummerWench · Genres:
Drama · ID: 261
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2006-09-11 22:21:58
These are excellent stories, each one capturing the real feel of a
genuine fairy-tale. It's not hard to place the real-world stories
inspiring them, but the author puts a distinctly Middle-earth twist to
each little tale. My favorite one so far is ["The Wooden Boy"].
-----------------------------------
Title: A Message and a Bottle · Author: Larner · Genres: Drama:
Featuring Pippin or Merry · ID: 89
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2006-09-11 22:29:58
The idea that somehow, someway, Frodo's loved ones might find a way to
communicate with him over the sea, and he communicate with them in
return, is very appealing to most of us. The author makes a charming
case for a message written by his friends and tossed into the Brandywine
in a wine bottle making its way to Tol Erresea and back. Pippin is just
wonderful in this story. A very happy story, in its own way.
-----------------------------------
Title: The Acceptable Sacrifice · Author: Larner · Genres: Drama:
Featuring Frodo or Sam · ID: 775
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2006-09-11 23:05:17
This story of Frodo, from his waking at Cormallen to his taking ship at
the Grey Havens, and how he finally made the decision to sail. The story
is insightful into the stress and trauma Frodo suffered, and the reasons
he felt unable to remain. It is quite clear that he suffers PTSD, as
well as some physical ailments due to the Quest.

There are a good many references to other stories by this author, but
not enough to mar the enjoyment of this by someone unfamiliar. She has
some lovely and particularly strong OCs, who can stand toe to toe with
canon characters.

I especially love the way her Frodo, while suffering and physically
weak, remains strong when it comes to those he loves and cares about
the most. When necessary he will put his own grief aside to deal with
the troubles of those dearest to him.

A very good read.
-----------------------------------
Title: We Don't Say Goodbye · Author: iorhael · Genres: Drama: Featuring
Frodo or Sam · ID: 968
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2006-09-11 23:13:51
Sam's reunion with Frodo on the Blessed Isle is not quite what he
expects. The author's idea of how his healing took place is rather unique.
-----------------------------------
Title: In Sequent Toil · Author: IgnobleBard · Genres: Adventure · ID: 941
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2006-09-12 22:40:27
I found the premise of this story rather implausible, especially the
idea of Elven assasins. It was rather interesting, however.
-----------------------------------
Title: Lesser Ring · Author: Larner · Genres: Adventure · ID: 184
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2006-09-12 22:47:08
I absolutely love this story. In it Larner creates a consistent and
plausible society for Harad, one based on ancient Egypt, which I find
very appropriate, as JRRT himself said he used Egyptian elements in
creating Numenor. Aragorn's two visits--one made years before, and then
another made after he became King--are both filled with adventure and
intrigue, as he meets Haradrim both noble and villainous.

I have to say, my favorite part is during the second visit, when he
returns as the King of Gondor to a land which has been freed of Sauron's
domination. Yet Sauron's legacy of evil lives on, and he must deal with
the aftermath. I especially like Pippin's actions in this part of the
story--he remains very much a hobbit, and yet very much a "King's man"
as well. He's a very dashing small hero!

And, as with all of Larner's stories, whether they take place pre- or
post- Grey Havens, it is all about Frodo in the end. It's a wonderful
and well-executed piece of imagination!
-----------------------------------
Title: Good Neighbors · Author: daw the minstrel · Genres: Adventure ·
ID: 818
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2006-09-12 22:49:43
This author is one of three Elf writers whose work I mightily enjoy, and
her conception of Legolas has very greatly colored my own. In this
story, the Elves of Mirkwood must learn how to deal with the Men of
Laketown. Young Legolas is caught in the middle of a bit of intrigue. A
very insightful and enjoyable read.
-----------------------------------
Title: The Lost · Author: Altariel · Times: Fourth Age and Beyond:
Gondor · ID: 181
Reviewer: obsidianj · 2006-09-13 00:19:03
A great squel to Noble Jewel. At first I was angry at Faramir for not
accepting Brand at once. His seemingly cold reaction left me bewildered.
But then I thought about the time frame of the story. This plays before
Faramir is married. So his grief at the loss of Boromir is still fresh.
Then, Brand is in the care of Andrahar, and Faramir's relationship with
Andrahar is strained because of Boromir. But I think the biggest thing
is, he feels cornered. Imrahil and Andrahar have decided that Brand is
Boromir's son, and Faramir has no say in it. Not that he would disagree
once he sees the boy. But he probably feels pushed around and not taken
seriously. Poor Brand is on the receiving end of Faramir's emotions, and
he reacts understandably cold and threatened. Luckily for both, they
come to a better understanding in the course of the tale and at the end
Faramir is reconciled with Brand's existance and a new friendship starts.
-----------------------------------
Title: The Dancing Master · Author: Flick · Races: Men: Vignette · ID: 323
Reviewer: obsidianj · 2006-09-13 00:19:39
This is a beautiful little story. A tender moment between Faramir and
Eowyn on their wedding day. I love the idea that Boromir taught both of
them to dance. Very clever idea of him to explain to Eowyn that dancing
would help in practicing for swordplay ;-).
-----------------------------------
Title: That Which Remains Us · Author: Dwimordene · Genres: Drama:
Remembering · ID: 749
Reviewer: obsidianj · 2006-09-13 00:20:29
In this reflective, pensive piece Faramir learns a new side of his
father he didn't expect when going through his father's effects. I love
the language in this story and although poetry usually doesn't speak to
me, the bits and pieces of Denethor's efforts are heartbreaking. They
tell so much and at the same time so little about the man Denethor was,
aside from the public face.
-----------------------------------
Title: The Healer and the Warrior · Author: Madeleine · Genres: Romance:
Lothíriel & Éomer · ID: 140
Reviewer: obsidianj · 2006-09-13 00:21:22
This is the story of the first encounter between an anonymous healer and
an equally anonymous warrior who give their real names in the last
exchange of the story. Throughout the story the reader gets enough clues
to figure out for herself who the protagonists are. The warrior wants
some healing supplies for his wound, and the healer insists on treating
the wound immediately herself. The story draws its charm out of the
clash of unexpected wills between the two main characters. They both
have their preconceived notions of what they want and are surprised that
they meet, to their mind, irrational resistance. The sparks fly and at
the end, when they part, they are secretly relieved that they will never
meet again, or not?

The characters are well developed and it is fun for the reader to
examine all their remarks with their identities in mind, which the
characters dont realize themselves until the end, where it is just a
confirmation for the reader. The well-written dialogue is priceless and
characteristic for each protagonist.
-----------------------------------
Title: Rest and Recreation · Author: Raksha the Demon · Races:
Cross-Cultural · ID: 700
Reviewer: obsidianj · 2006-09-13 00:22:20
Boromir is ordered to rest and save his strength before the quest in
beautiful Imladris. He is bored out of his mind and quite insulted by
the perceived opinion of the elves of him being a clumsy child compared
to them. So, one day he is challenging a pretty elf not knowing who it
is to a bout of swordpractice. Being soundly defeated again and again,
he nevertheless never gives up and earns the respect of said warrior. I
like it that both elves and man have to adjust their prejudices. Boromir
learns never to underestimate pretty elves and his opponent learns new
respect for the endurance and stubborn pride of the man.
-----------------------------------
Title: For a cause, a friend, a loved one · Author: Werecat · Genres:
Humor · ID: 120
Reviewer: Branwyn · 2006-09-13 01:34:08
No one writes the animals of MiddleEarth as sensitively and beautifully
as Werecat. In this small tale of Rohan, each of the creatures speaks
and acts in character--the sensible owl, the timid mice, the aloof cat,
the noble horse. The horse recognizes that he isn't the only warrior in
the barn--he and the cat will both fight to defend their homes from
evil. He doesn't believe for a minute that she is going to flee, despite
her scornful words.
The quote from "Babylon 5" took me by surprise in a Tolkien fanfic, but
it worked well. This is an amusing and original ficlet; thanks for
sharing it.
-----------------------------------
Title: Bilbo's Nursery Rhyme for Merry and Pippin · Author: Llinos ·
Races: Hobbits: Poetry · ID: 882
Reviewer: Branwyn · 2006-09-13 02:02:12
Bilbo liked to write verse so Llinos has him write a nonsense poem for
his young relations. I liked the device of bolding the words that Pippin
would shout along, and I can imagine the two little hobbits bouncing up
in down in time to the rhythm and laughing at the silliness of the fish
with the piecrust hat. A funny and sweet verse!
-----------------------------------
Title: Red River · Author: Altariel · Times: Fourth Age and Beyond:
Gondor · ID: 82
Reviewer: dkpalaska · 2006-09-13 06:21:41
This is such a marvelous story, full of many layers that end up leaving
me hungry for more details even as it answers some about current
politics in the Fourth Age. I would dearly love to see the initial
meeting between Raksandhar and Faramir; it seems to echo the start of
another friendship in the author's "Possessions."

I had found out from the author that Faramir's summer house is placed
near Henneth Annun, and it is this pool and waterfall that is seen at
the start of the story. Although not specified within the writing
itself, this extra tidbit deepened my appreciation of how much progress
has taken place between once-warring nations: the secret Ranger hideout
is now publicly displayed, and a Haradrim lord - his kinsmen once
ambushed and killed under the leadership of the then-Captain, now Prince
- is standing in peace with the returned King of Gondor.

From there, of course, we find out that the situation is not as rosy as
it initially seems. In fine entrenched political fashion, Gondor is
oppressing the conquered people in Harad to the point of potentially
creating civil war. I was a bit frustrated with Aragorn's apparent
unwillingness to more strongly confront his council to achieve the
desired tax reliefs. After so long, it feels like Gondor's bitterness is
only feeding on itself, making it a mockery of the glorious nation it
styles itself and the vision of healing that Aragorn proclaimed.

Faramir's subtlety and (dare I say it?) manipulative skill are on fine
display here. And of course I loved the ever-present presence of chess
in Altariel's writing. I thought Raksandhar was a brilliantly
fleshed-out and sympathetic OC. I especially loved his father's tale
from the POV of the enemy and his own reference - even after all these
years - to ["God the Giver of Gifts"]. Even though Raksandhar is on "the
other side" I was very sad that Faramir and Aragorn could not find a way
to help this very conscientious young man. (Thank goodness that Isabeau
came to his rescue!)
-----------------------------------
Title: Half a Sticky Mile · Author: SlightlyTookish · Genres: Adventure
· ID: 940
Reviewer: Garnet Took · 2006-09-13 18:54:40
This is a nice gap-filler for the time that Merry and Pippin spent in
Isenguard that they didn't tell the others about in the book.

The description of the huorns leaving was nicely creepy, and the
encounter with the orcish men was frightening. I loved the way the
hobbits used the skills they knew they were good at to slow them down.
Pippin with the swords was a great touch.

Truly an exciting and fun read.
-----------------------------------
Title: By The Light of Earendil's Star · Author: Branwyn · Genres:
Adventure · ID: 83
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2006-09-13 21:00:46
Now, it *has* to be really something to get me to like Denethor, whom I
have loathed for thirty-nine years! Again, I have to thank the MEFAs for
finding this tale for me--very high quality consistent writing,
suspenseful, a delightful OC in Eldahil--and I didn't even mind the lack
of hobbits! It was rather graphic in the violence, but nothing that did
not seem called for by the plot. An excellent read!
-----------------------------------
Title: Dust On My Saddle · Author: Rous · Races: Elves: Other
Fixed-Length Ficlet · ID: 630
Reviewer: LydiaB · 2006-09-13 21:11:44
I remember this drabble from when I entered my first ever drabble
challenge. I read it and thought, how am I ever going to manage to write
one as good as that? In fact, I don't think I even reviewed it at the
time because I could think of nothing intelligent to say. Well, I don't
know if this review is doing it justice, but I'm trying. The idea of
combining Tolkien with a Western was inspired to begin with, but not an
easy thing to pull off. However, your vocabulary choices were superb and
evoked the genre perfectly. Every line made me smile, and when I
realized who it referred to I smiled even more. I'm so glad that I got
to read it again.
-----------------------------------
Title: Fire and Flowering · Author: Raksha the Demon · Genres: Romance:
Incomplete · ID: 58
Reviewer: Linda Hoyland · 2006-09-13 23:48:26
I am not a fan of erotic fiction at all,nor of Faramir and Eowyn
romances.Eowyn's sudden switch of affections never quite convinces me.
However,these ficlets are so tastefully written, it is impossible not to
like them.
I especially enjoyed Faramir's determination to wait until Eowyn was
ready to respond to his advances.What a perfect gentleman ! The reader
shares his surprise and delight when his fiance responds with such
eagerness to his kisses.

Eowyn's expressed desire to make a garden is given new meaning when the
young husband and wife find other ways of spending their time than
gardening !

These ficlets represent an inner journey to Faramir as fire can now be
associated with conceiving a beloved child rather than this rather
trying to take his life. The writer explores the different meanings of
fire well.

Eowyn's fear that Faramir no longer finds her attractive is touching
when they resume their martial intimacies after the birth of their first
child. However, her extra curves only make her more beautiful in his eyes.

I think my favourite of these ficlets is the last one, where Faramir and
Eowyn steal a kiss under the holly to the bewilderment of their children
who are very relieved that the yule custom is somthing only adults observe !
-----------------------------------
Title: Seeker of Shadow · Author: Raksha the Demon · Genres: Romance:
Fixed-length ficlet · ID: 63
Reviewer: Linda Hoyland · 2006-09-13 23:55:01
A touching glimpse of a mysterious chapter of the FIrst Age Aredhel
rides out and meets the man who will set in motion her own doom and that
of her people. What powerful force drew the maiden from the safety of
her home? Did she lover her husband or was the marriage a forced union?
Eel thinks he can give Aredhel what she seeks. How tragic that it will
destroy her in the end.
-----------------------------------

Title: Great Heart · Author: Raksha the Demon · Times: First Age and
Prior: Fixed-Length Ficlet · ID: 64
Reviewer: Linda Hoyland · 2006-09-14 00:05:26
This charming ficlet was an influence of my decesion to finally read the
book it is based on ! I am not a dog person,preferring cats, but who
could not love Huan,the mighty hound of Valinor with his touching
devotion to Luthien?

This story is a unique glimpse into Huan's early life as the smallest of
his litter. Maybe his own fight to survive amongst his larger siblings
is what draws him towards Luthien who is in need of protection?

I feel I can almost see Huan and his littermates in this vividly written
fictet.

I like the idea that Orome should tell him that a great destiny lies ahead.

Huan reminds me here of Gellert, a famous hound in British history.

Huan's killing of the snake foretells his later part in defeating the
forces of evil.
Very well written and highly recommended to all animal lovers as well as
Tolkien devotees.
-----------------------------------
Title: Rest and Recreation · Author: Raksha the Demon · Races:
Cross-Cultural · ID: 700
Reviewer: Linda Hoyland · 2006-09-14 00:14:27
I often wondered just how well Boromir would have fitted in at
Rivendell.He must have felt like a fish out of water,for unlike his
brother he had no love of Elven lore.To his credit, he tries very hard
to fit in but fears to be driven mad at the languid air of the place

As a soldier, he must have jumped at the chance to spar with an Elf . He
severely underestimates the slender,golden haired warrior though.

The author springs a nice surprise on the reader ,when the warrior turns
out not to be Legolas but Glorfindel.

Boromir is in for a shock as the seemingly fragile Elf bests him easily
and only after a day of hard fighting just he manage to match Glorfindel.

BOromir rests happy that night and has found a new friend as well as a
newfound respect for the Eldar.
-----------------------------------
Title: The Recall · Author: Isabeau of Greenlea · Times: Fourth Age and
Beyond: Gondor · ID: 738
Reviewer: dkpalaska · 2006-09-14 00:20:52
I love this story, and not just because Isabeau has made Imrahil my
current favorite among all the individuals of Middle-earth. It is a
well-written and satisfying follow-up to Altariels [Red River], and
as usual includes myriad references to other stories and characters in
the particular universe that the two authors share. These references add
depth and continuity for their long-time readers, and the
interconnectedness is one of my personal favorite things about their
writings, but it can make the story difficult to follow for new readers
who lack the background.

Learning the situation surrounding Andrahars death and the reasons for
Gondor going to war in Harad only underscore the councils obstinacy.
Already Gondorians are dying because of policies that they are refusing
to change, and yet they cling to what has become, with time, a
vindictive and oppressive tariff structure. Instead of loudly
proclaiming their fallen from the Ring War they would do better to visit
the families of more recent veterans. And why werent more of those
council members fighting in Harad themselves? So the revelation of the
entire situation only accentuates the unfairness, the pettiness of many
of Gondors nobility.

Enter Imrahil, both diplomat and warrior. To his credit, the death of
his oath-brother - someone he had spent the majority of his life with -
has not hardened his heart to Harads plight. Instead he comes back into
the council ready to do whatever it takes to bring justice about for
Andrahars former people. The manner in which he does it had me laughing
and cheering, and I especially enjoyed Aragorn and Faramirs reaction 
I could well believe that, for a moment, they actually regretted asking
Imrahil to come to Minas Tirith&

It was a bittersweet ending, between the sadness of Imrahil
acknowledging his mortality (although he has another nine years to go at
this point), and the resurfacing of his pirate nature and lessening of
his grief. I like to think that he was comforted to meet Raksandhar at
the very end. It speaks to how hard Andrahars death hit him that he has
not only been grieving for two years now, but that it took something
outside of his family and home in Dol Amroth to finally begin bringing
him out of it. I also loved the glimpse of Brand in his prime, and of
Arwen needing reassurance as to the Gift of Men. A wonderful story!
-----------------------------------
Title: The Lost · Author: Altariel · Times: Fourth Age and Beyond:
Gondor · ID: 181
Reviewer: dkpalaska · 2006-09-14 00:23:56
On the surface, this story is about Faramir learning of and connecting
with his dead brother's bastard son. Interwoven with this are many
allusions and foreshadowings to the over-arcing universe that Altariel
and Isabeau jointly write in. As such, the many layers will only be
appreciated when the other stories containing these characters are read
in conjunction with this one. However, much of this story stands on its
own as a character study of Faramir and his still-evolving understanding
of his relationship with his father. Altariel always writes a wonderful
Faramir and this is no exception. He is - as-ever - fascinating, complex
and angsty, and he maintains his overriding sense honor and loyalty
despite receiving a great shock.

My first thought in reading the story premise is that Faramir would be
overjoyed to have this reminder of his brother, yet as the story unfolds
Altariel made me feel that it was inevitable for Faramir to respond to
Brand as he does. Although at first I was frustrated by Faramir's
reaction, I came to understand that although they felt they were doing
things for the best, the folk of Dol Amroth were also indulging in their
own motives, and indeed in a sense "stealing" Brand from Faramir, as he
mentions over the chess game with Amrothos. Faramirs initially
possessive response to Brand is not right, but is a believable legacy
from his father.

Some parts that I particularly loved: The focus on Faramirs hands and
ring in the second meeting with Brand in the library, connecting with
mannerisms that Altariel established in previous tales and that look
forward to some events in her [A Game of Chess]. The reflections of
Faramir about how he is and ever will be Denethors son, and that he
still grieves for him despite their difficult relationship and
Denethors horrible ending, and how Faramir is coming to terms with
this. (This is another foreshadowing to AGoC, and makes me think of
Faramirs fiery confrontation with Imrahil in that story and the
subsequent change to their relationship.) The powerful and comforting
vision that allows Faramir to accept Brand as true family, realizing how
Boromir would have reacted to discovering his son. I also loved and
appreciated that Eowyn was part of the story, albeit in the background,
and the glimpse of we get of her generous heart in her letter to Faramir
at the end.
-----------------------------------
Title: Assume, Confuse, Consume, Amuse · Author: pipkinsweetgrass ·
Genres: Alternate Universe · ID: 648
Reviewer: Garnet Took · 2006-09-14 02:00:14
I don't normally like these kinds of stories, but this one is truly a
jewel. I could read it over many times--in fact I have.

The short stories contained in the longer one are just wonderful, and
the enteraction between the characters of her imagination, Pipkin and
Beornomir are so much fun.

I think my favorite story was the one about how Faramir got his name.

The last scene of the piece was so funny I laughed out loud. That really
was a nightmare. Mary Sue Legomances, oh my.
-----------------------------------
Title: Sacrafice · Author: laiquendi · Races: Elves: Poetry · ID: 924
Reviewer: Branwyn · 2006-09-14 02:09:46
Laiquendi describes one of the more intense scenes of "The Two Towers"
movie--the elves and men fighting side by side at Helm's Deep in the
rain. Good job with the rhyme scheme, and the image of the [starless,
rain filled sky] is striking. Nicely done!
-----------------------------------
Title: The Roots of the Ivy · Author: Aranel Took · Genres: Alternate
Universe: Post-Grey Havens · ID: 118
Reviewer: Garnet Took · 2006-09-14 02:21:07
This is a very interesting story. I had wondered if there were any
stories that dealt with the possibility that Merry and Eowyn could have
had a one time encounter that led to a child, then I found this story.

There are a lot of interesting twists and turns in the plot, and the
author does manage to deal with issues of such things as the diffirent
rates of maturation between hobbits and men.

At first I found the Pippin/Ivy relationship a little hard to get used
to, but once I got into the story, I kind of enjoyed it. I do hate
Diamond in this story. She's evil.

All in all, a very good story.
-----------------------------------
Title: Healed · Author: Shirebound · Genres: Alternate Universe:
Post-Grey Havens · ID: 117
Reviewer: Garnet Took · 2006-09-14 02:26:03
This is a very sweet story. I liked it that all the hobbits got to sail
West. The brand new start for them is wonderful, and their futures are
interesting. Truly and "Ah" enspiring story.
-----------------------------------
Title: Years After and a Sea Between · Author: Dana · Genres: Alternate
Universe: Post-Grey Havens · ID: 39
Reviewer: Garnet Took · 2006-09-14 02:32:02
The idea of Merry and Pippin sailing a ship to try to travel West is
fascinating. The truly intriguing thing about this was the unanswered
question, "did they make it?"
-----------------------------------
Title: Dragons and Sailboats · Author: Acacea · Genres: Drama:
Remembering · ID: 74
Reviewer: Linda Hoyland · 2006-09-14 10:04:46
A touching little story which I enjoyed.
-----------------------------------
Title: Fair-weather Friends · Author: pippinfan88 · Genres: Drama:
Featuring Pippin or Merry · ID: 126
Reviewer: Garnet Took · 2006-09-14 18:20:32
This is a short but sweet story. It is a clear illistration of the deep
commitment that Merry, Sam, and Pippin's wives had to have for their
battle-scarred husbands.
-----------------------------------
Title: Treasures And Momentos · Author: Marigold · Genres: Drama:
Featuring Pippin or Merry · ID: 220
Reviewer: Garnet Took · 2006-09-14 18:37:29
This is one of those lovely bittersweet stories. The thought that they
died so close together is comforting in its own way. Neither one could
have been happy without the other.

The gifts they left were so purfect for each recipient. I especially
like the gift left for Aragorn.

This is one of those stories that could use a hanky warning, especially
for those of us who cry at the drop of a hat.
-----------------------------------
Title: A Humble Gift · Author: GamgeeFest · Genres: Drama: Featuring
Pippin or Merry · ID: 722
Reviewer: Garnet Took · 2006-09-14 19:13:04
This is a wonderful story that clearly shows the love and understanding
between Faramir and Pippin. They both give so much to each other and
gain so much from their friendship.
-----------------------------------
Title: Both Beholden · Author: Dwimordene · Genres: Drama:
Pre-Fellowship · ID: 180
Reviewer: Raksha the Demon · 2006-09-14 19:46:45
Interesting gapfiller of a relationship we all might have liked to have
seen - Boromir and Halbarad, drawn together in a Dunedain scouting
mission from Imladris before the Fellowship set out together.

Boromir and Halbarad are cautious and veiled, circumspect in word, and
quietly testing each other, both seeking to learn the other's opinion of
Aragorn, Boromir on behalf of the southern realm that he knows Aragorn
will claim, and Halbarad to see at whose side Boromir will stand when
that claim is made - Denethor's or Aragorn's.

The parallels between Boromir and Halbarad are fascinating; both in
positions to inherit the guardianship, if not the rule, of Aragorn's
patrimony.

When the silence between the two cautious men breaks, fascinating truths
and hopes and a curious faith come to light.

Dwimordene, as ever, is a master at writing dialogue of a politically
sensitive nature. This story is well worth reading!
-----------------------------------
Title: The Falcon's Watch · Author: pippinfan88 · Genres: Drama:
Featuring Pippin or Merry · ID: 227
Reviewer: Garnet Took · 2006-09-14 20:24:05
This story is a hard one for me to take. I love it, but it still bothers
me on some levels. I'm sad that Faramir was never able to truly
understand his father while he yet lived. I hate it that Pippin never
got the chance to reconcile with his son. I am glad that Faramir was
finally able to put his bitterness behind him. I find it hard to picture
any child of Peregrin Took being bitter for long.

Kalimas is a really nice counterpoint to Faramir. He's so like his
dad--a planner and a clear-thinking hobbit.

The Falcon is fantesic. I knew it had to be connected directly to
Pippin. How many falcons with noticable limp would be following a group
of grieving hobbits? Difinitely a message from the departed.

This really is a good story. It looks at things differently than most,
and that's a good thing.
-----------------------------------
Title: Servant of the Tower · Author: Branwyn · Genres: Drama: Gondor
Fixed-Length Ficlet · ID: 95
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2006-09-14 23:15:04
I've often wondered how those servants must have felt, ordered to help
Denethor commit suicide and murder. This rings true--he dare not
disobey, but perhaps wine will help him forget.
-----------------------------------
Title: A Darkened Heart · Author: Beethoven's 7th · Genres: Drama:
General Fixed-Length Ficlet · ID: 774
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2006-09-14 23:16:49
Yes, pride was definitely the chink in Boromir's armor. And a moment
well chosen for it to manifest.
-----------------------------------
Title: Love Me Now, Forever · Author: iorhael · Genres: Drama: Featuring
Frodo or Sam · ID: 419
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2006-09-14 23:19:44
It's very interesting to think of the POV of Bag End itself, how it must
have felt, abandoned by its master. Blend of movie and book-verse, I
found myself briefly confused, but it was very touchingly written.
-----------------------------------
Title: Of Herbs and Stewed Rabbit · Author: Altariel · Genres: Drama:
Gondor Fixed-Length Ficlet · ID: 91
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2006-09-14 23:23:52
A *most* unexpected, yet logical, crossover! Poor rabbits, to fall to
Gollum's strong fingers. But at least they provided Frodo and Sam with
nourishment.
-----------------------------------
Title: Tom Bombadil and the Four Travellers · Author: Dreamflower ·
Times: The Great Years: Poetry · ID: 887
Reviewer: Raksha the Demon · 2006-09-14 23:30:35
A delightfully rollicking ballad, written very much in the style of
Tolkien's own Bombadil songs. I don't know how the writer came up with
it, but I'll happily have a go at whatever she's been drinking, or
reading, for inspiration.
-----------------------------------
Title: House of Reeds · Author: The Bookbinder's Daughter · Races: Elves
· ID: 660
Reviewer: Marta · 2006-09-15 00:23:06
It seems fitting somehow that these two would get to know each other in
this way. They are too great and strong to do what love demanded at the
expense of fate, and in the end they had tasks that needed doing that
weren't compatible together. But what a love! You sold me, at least.
-----------------------------------
Title: Call yourself Thorongil · Author: Nilmandra · Times: Late Third
Age · ID: 731
Reviewer: Marta · 2006-09-15 00:32:46
You're Gandalf here is simply so delightfully Gandalfy. It reminds me in
a vague way of how he treats with Bilbo at the beginning of "The
Hobbit". I also liked your explanation of the name Thorongil, and the
use of the elessar legend. It's a really neatly-woven story; I enjoyed it.
-----------------------------------
Title: Rising Hope · Author: Tanaqui · Races: Men: Other Fixed-Length
Ficlets · ID: 873
Reviewer: Marta · 2006-09-15 00:44:07
This drabble is a must-read for anyone who likes stories about Numenor.
it plays on the idea that as thhe faithful became more and more
persecuted politically the names of Amandil's family became more
cautious. I had never thought of it, but it works here. I can just see
the broad smile on Amandil's face as he realizes how clever he has been
with a name that will not raise suspicions unduly but is still true to
his heritage. And the symbolism toward the end was fantastic. Really, a
very nice metaphor for the times these characters were living in.
-----------------------------------
Title: A Hallowed Place of Both Peoples · Author: Imhiriel · Times:
Early Third Age: Fixed-Length Ficlet · ID: 944
Reviewer: Marta · 2006-09-15 00:52:27
I had actually forgotten that this wonderful drabble was written for my
birthday. Which makes it all the more touching for me personally but I
think it really speaks to anyone who likes to think about the deeper
issues of Middle-earth.

Just what would have the Rohirrim thought about Gondor's removing of
Elendil's grave. I think from the Gondorian perspective it makes sense
to have this treasured monument at the heart of the land they personally
protected, but from someone else's it really could have seemed
insulting! And I think Imhiriel has really nailed the way that
Gondorians did think about this [uncultured] race, so even if their
motives were good in this particular case Eorl had good reason to feel
the way he did.

Add to that the simply spectacular physical details like ["merely some
lonely alfirin stirred in a fitful breeze"] and it creates quite a word
picture in such a short space. I could really see this scene playing out
so easily! Maybe the Gondorians are falling away a bit from their
appointed role as guardians of the lore of the West -- in which case
being people of the twilight is no insult, but means they are the
beginning of a new age for men.
-----------------------------------
Title: Fair Trade · Author: Tanaqui · Races: Men: Steward's Sons
Fixed-Length Ficlets · ID: 900
Reviewer: Marta · 2006-09-15 01:04:17
I remember the discussions on solar ovens, food transport lines, and the
associated canon ponderables that would be involved with equipping the
Ithilien rangers. It is so nice to read someone who takes a practical
view and a realist approach to Gondor. But those world-building details
are not even the true point of this drabble. Tanaqui has given us a
Faramir who values the respect of those around him and their devotion to
Gondor more than his own material comfort, and that character shines
through marvellously here. Nice glimpse of daily life.
-----------------------------------

Title: Drabbles for Lord of the Rings · Author: Llinos · Races: Hobbits:
Fixed-Length Ficlet series · ID: 758
Reviewer: Marta · 2006-09-15 01:12:39
Nice job of capturing these chapters in verse. Verse or drabbling would
be hard enough, but doing them together is really commendable.
-----------------------------------
Title: A New Year · Author: Bodkin · Times: Fourth Age and Beyond · ID: 704
Reviewer: Marta · 2006-09-15 01:19:41
This is a very nice look at how the elves who had moved to Valinor
before the War of the Ring (or had never left) might have viewed the
straggler's trials in Middle-earth. It reminds me in a way of how
society at large reacts to any localized tragedy: the affected are being
melodramatic. Or it's their own fault. Or whatever. This story was very
true to life in those regards.

I was also tickled to see the return of Miriwen! I have not read all of
Bodkin's stories but recently read "Awaiting the Thaw" and loved her
there; here, their relationship is on a bit more equal terms, and both
her and Elrohir shine. And Olorin becoming more Gandalf-y! Really some
well-told characterizations throughout this piece.
-----------------------------------
Title: Ring Thoughts · Author: Nesta · Times: The Great Years · ID: 190
Reviewer: Marta · 2006-09-15 01:29:25
This was really well done. It didn't cover all of Lord of the rings by a
long shot, but the scenes that Nesta did address were woven together
deftly and presented a nice psychological portrait of how the Ring might
want. I particularly liked the sense of disdain, like when the Ring kept
saying ["Woollyfoot"] to refer to Frodo.
-----------------------------------
Title: Frodo's Exciting Day Out · Author: Llinos · Genres: Humor: Parody
· ID: 829
Reviewer: Marta · 2006-09-15 01:36:11
Cute. This reminded me in a way of those "Lord of the Rings in ten
minutes" websites that you sometimes see links to, it's funny in a
minimalist sort of way and got to the heart of some episodes in a single
reference. Very cleverly done.
-----------------------------------
Title: Sleeping Arrangements · Author: Lady Galadriel · Genres: Drama:
Featuring Frodo or Sam · ID: 312
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2006-09-15 01:41:15
A sweet story of the mutual protectiveness between Frodo and Sam,
contrasting a childhood experience with one on the Quest.
-----------------------------------
Title: Merry Yules · Author: Marigold · Races: Hobbits: Fixed-Length
Ficlet series · ID: 114
Reviewer: Marta · 2006-09-15 01:43:14
I like the way that each of these double drabbles feels just right: not
to short, not too long. You'd never know there was a specific word
limitation. There's joy, sadness, but most of all normal life, and a
delightful hobbity spirit that I have come to expect from this author.
-----------------------------------
Title: Divinity · Author: illyria-pffyffin · Races: Hobbits · ID: 824
Reviewer: Marta · 2006-09-15 01:49:15
What a neat little piece! I love the way that you gave all of those LOTR
events a deeper dimmension, my bringing in events from earlier ages.
Very Tolkienesque.
-----------------------------------
Title: Sword Play · Author: Lindelea · Times: Fourth Age and Beyond: The
Shire · ID: 782
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2006-09-15 04:01:15
This is a really cute encounter between young Faramir Took and
Goldilocks Gamgee when both are at that stage of loathing the opposite
sex. Nevertheless, Goldi coaxes Faramir into giving her a "sword
lesson"--with unexpected results. I love Sam in this!
-----------------------------------
Title: When Winter Fell · Author: Lindelea · Races: Hobbits: Incomplete
· ID: 111
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2006-09-15 04:05:49
This author has just about perfected the technique of telling the "dual
story"--two stories separated in time, but united by a similar theme. In
this story, we have the Fell Winter coming on--as witnessed by young
Bilbo in his journal, while he also reads the journal entries of a young
Fortinbras Took about the Long Winter. A sub-plot concerns the place in
the family of Bilbo's eccentric Isengar Took, who left the Shire to go
to sea and was not quite his old self when he returned. An intriguing
story, and the author perfectly catches that self-absorption of even the
best of young adolescents.
-----------------------------------
Title: Just Desserts · Author: Lindelea · Times: Fourth Age and Beyond ·
ID: 161
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2006-09-15 04:11:20
Lindelea's Jack is a favorite of mine. She's created a very believable
OC in him--an intinerent entertainer, he traversed the Shire frequently
in his youth. But he made the mistake of entering once more--and with
ulterior motives--after the King's Edict was in place. In spite of the
fact that he saved the life of Pippin's wife and son, he lives in terror
of his transgression being discovered. And it is.

We see in his case how an overly strict interpretation of the law can
result in a miscarriage of justice--one which will take all the efforts
of Pippin, Merry, Sam and the King himself to make right. It's very
suspenseful, and filled with the author's trademark cliffies. An
excellent and thought-provoking read!
-----------------------------------
Title: In a Pig's Eye · Author: Lindelea · Genres: Humor · ID: 747
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2006-09-15 04:13:48
Hilarious! Pippin, somewhat hysterical and light-headed in his relief at
Frodo's recovery in Rivendell, makes the amazing--to him--discovery that
Elves keep pigs. I love Merry in this--his long-suffering patience is
wearing very thin...This is really funny!
-----------------------------------
Title: To See Justice Done · Author: Lindelea · Times: The Great Years:
Post-Sauron's Fall · ID: 306
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2006-09-15 04:21:11
This story is set in and around the time of Beregond's hearing for his
actions the night of the siege. It fits in very well with other stories
on the same events which the author has written--but this one is in
Sam's POV. And it is Sam, with his questions and his hobbit-sense-who
helps Aragorn to find his way through the tangled maze of legalities,
and find both mercy and true justice for the Guardsman. Very insightul,
this is a favorite theme of this author, and she handles it expertly!
-----------------------------------
Title: Distant Lands · Author: Acacea · Genres: Romance: Fixed-length
ficlet · ID: 76
Reviewer: Linda Hoyland · 2006-09-15 04:36:28
A delightful and unusual fictet,in that for once Aragorn is trying to
please his new steward rather than the other way round. What better way
than to entertain FAramir than by telling him of Edoras? Very well written.
-----------------------------------
Title: Oaths Foresworn · Author: Rhapsody · Times: First Age and Prior ·
ID: 315
Reviewer: LydiaB · 2006-09-15 17:37:07
This is a truly moving and tragic scene you have written. I was totally
caught up in Maglor's emotions and pain as he watches his brother die
and swears a second, heartrending oath.
The line [We held true, did we not Kano? But was it all worth it?']
makes me teary eyed every time I read it. Beautifully done!
-----------------------------------
Title: The Unexpected Guest · Author: pippinfan88 · Genres: Humor: The
Shire · ID: 635
Reviewer: Garnet Took · 2006-09-15 18:50:54
This is an absolutely hilarious story of one strange event leading to
another. Poor Pippin, soaked and miserable, almost getting to spend a
pleasant afternoon in husbandly persuits, and then ending of hiding in a
closet wearing nothing but his curls and a grimace.

The funniest moment was when his sister hands him a saucer to cover his
assets with, when what he want is something a great deal larger. The
question is, did he need something more or did his ego believe that he
did? Either way, the image of Pippin standing there holding a small
plate and wishing the females a pleasant tea is very funny. The older
ladies reactions are priceless.
-----------------------------------
Title: A Meara for Me! · Author: Súlriel · Genres: Non-Fiction · ID: 893
Reviewer: LydiaB · 2006-09-15 19:17:53
What a useful resource! Particulary the descriptions of what kind of
tasks each horse could be used for and the elvish names. (I struggle a
little with my elvish!) I actually been struggling to come up with a
realistic description of a work horse, perhaps used for the plow and in
forestry in the Northern Kingdom, and this page has given me a number of
useful pointers, so, thank you!
-----------------------------------
Title: My Eyes! My Eyes! · Author: Alassante · Genres: Humor:
Fixed-Length Ficlet · ID: 358
Reviewer: LydiaB · 2006-09-15 19:29:55
What! Is she mad? There'll come a day when she'll learn not to complain
about such things. This little scene had me laughing out loud. I do feel
rather sorry for Aragorn, but as I'm a pervy elf fancier, you're quite
safe from me.
-----------------------------------
Title: Hearth and Home · Author: Molly Littlefoot · Races: Hobbits · ID: 730
Reviewer: annmarwalk · 2006-09-15 22:52:35
I enjoyed this story on several different levels. First off, the details
of country life: spinning and weaving, tending pigs, putting up the
garden bounty before winter, even the borrowing of kinfolk to help out
during the summer were colorfully and lovingly described.

The concept of trade between the Shire and Bree, and beyond is something
that I dont remember reading (or even thinking) too much about, but I
like the way youve illustrated it here, with the Shirefolk producing
well-crafted and highly regarded goods for export. These details
contribute so much to making Tolkiens world even more viable and realistic.

I particularly liked the friendship between the hobbit family and the
Ranger, and Mollys effort to make Vista feel welcome, even to buying
man-size dishes and setting them on the mantelpiece, always ready for
his return to a comforting home away from home.

Of course, the main point of the story is the poignant waiting and
wondering for Mollys husband to return. We know only that the dark days
have begun, both for the Shire and the world outside, and share her
apprehension which she must conceal for the sake of her children. This
aspect of the story was very well drawn, and speaks to events that are
happening even in the Fourth Age. Very well done.
-----------------------------------
Title: Fugitive · Author: Gandalfs apprentice · Genres: Drama · ID: 366
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2006-09-16 01:58:44
The young princess of Gondor runs away--but she cannot hide from her
father, who was after all the chief of the Rangers. There is a very
touching father-daughter talk about grief and responsibility. A very
touching little vignette.
-----------------------------------
Title: Lonely Night · Author: NeumeIndil · Genres: Drama: Remembering ·
ID: 295
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2006-09-16 02:06:01
A very angsty look at two prostitutes in a brothel in Rohan? I think
Rohan. Well-written and realistic, yet it could have been anywhere.
-----------------------------------
Title: Heirlooms · Author: annmarwalk · Genres: Drama: Remembering · ID: 72
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2006-09-16 02:10:16
I love the idea that through their mutual kinship to Morwen Steelsheen,
both Faramir and Eowyn found themselves gifted with identical
toys--which had belonged to Boromir and to Theodred, and which end up in
the cradles of their son and their nephew. It's the sort of parallelism
that seems appropriate to M-e, and I think JRRT would approve.
-----------------------------------
Title: If Only · Author: Holdur · Genres: Drama: Featuring Pippin or
Merry · ID: 826
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2006-09-16 02:12:46
Years after, Pippin still remembers and grieves for Boromir. In this
lovely little vignette he has a dream/vision, of Boromir coming to speak
to him and to comfort him. The story has a lovely and appropriate
dreamlike quality to the prose, and the ambiguous ending is beautiful.
-----------------------------------
Title: Breath of Winter · Author: Cuthalion · Genres: Drama: Featuring
Pippin or Merry · ID: 101
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2006-09-16 02:28:04
I love this "story within a story", told from Merry's POV. During the
long night, after Frodo has been stabbed at Weathertop, Merry remembers
another time long ago, when Frodo saved his two young cousins from
freezing to death when they were lost in the snow. This gives him the
idea of how to warm his increasing chill older cousin. The story is very
touching, and you can really feel the strong bond of love. I also like
very much the song/poem of winter, sung to help keep spirits up, in both
the past and present. Very nice story!
-----------------------------------
Title: In Darkness Burried Deep · Author: GamgeeFest · Genres: Drama:
Pre-Fellowship · ID: 954
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2006-09-16 02:32:48
This is a long and involved tale of how Frodo came to be lost in the Old
Forest once, during the time when he was still living in Buckland after
his parents' death. We see him as young and vulnerable, and desperate to
prove himself--not necessarily to the older lads who challenge him into
dangerous stunts--but to himself, for he doubts his own strength and
courage. A side-plot, very nearly as intriguing as Frodo's own story,
involves a feud of sorts between two of those older lads, a couple of
well-drawn OCs, who end up feeling responsible for what happened to
Frodo. A very absorbing and suspenseful story.
-----------------------------------
Title: Sweet Woodbine · Author: Bodkin · Times: Fourth Age and Beyond ·
ID: 864
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2006-09-16 06:24:35
This is a good tale of what Legolas got up to in the Aman in the years
between the loss of his best friend, Gimli, and the arrival of his
father Thranduil. He grieved of course, and then he looked to find
something useful to do--oh, and he fell in love.

While none of this authors tales of Valinor would be complete without
complicated politics, this is mostly Legolas love story. He meets and
falls in love with a wonderful girl, but in true star-crossed lover
style, their families are at odds. She is of the Noldor, and her
parents-most especially her hide-bound father-think an Elf from across
the Sea cannot possibly be good enough for his daughter.

The tale of how they resist one another as long as they can, and how
Legolas finally breaks down enough of the barriers to gain at least
grudging acceptance from her father is epic. And Thranduils
long-awaited arrival brings with it a most unexpected development.
Wonderful story, like all of Bodkins!

-----------------------------------

Title: Discretion · Author: Bodkin · Genres: Humor · ID: 286
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2006-09-16 06:29:06
This is utterly hilarious! The idea of a joke, spanning nearly the
entire Third Age and well into the Fourth, and involving ultimately
almost every major character in the books, finally coming to rest is
more than merely amusing! It is side-splittingly funny! And it is just
the sort of joke Elves *would* find humorous!
-----------------------------------
Title: A Woodland Prince · Author: Bodkin · Genres: Drama: Fixed-Length
Ficlet Series · ID: 303
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2006-09-16 06:33:48
A remarkable idea: a series of drabbles, exploring from differing POVs
the subject of Legolas. I was very taken by all of them, but most
especially by those of the hobbits--who were in their own ways very
shrewd judges of character, even of Elves. And Gimli's POV was very
funny and touching. Very well constructed as well! Not a word wasted,
and each drabble capturing the person it came from.
-----------------------------------
Title: First Impressions · Author: Bodkin · Races: Men: Featuring
Aragorn · ID: 806
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2006-09-16 06:36:29
Aragorn is very young and green in this story, and suffering a bit of
culture shock on coming among his parents' people after living his life
in Rivendell. Halbarad is wise and comforting in this, but soon helps
his young charge to an appreciation of his own people.
-----------------------------------
Title: One Summer's Day · Author: Bodkin · Races: Men · ID: 765
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2006-09-16 06:39:36
The first time I read this I was very surprised to note the name of the
author! I am so used to her as being primarily an Elf-writer that it was
a revelation to me how well she could write of Rohan! I was very
impressed by the deep family feeling between Theodred and his young
cousins, and by young Eomer's worries and fears for his little sister. A
lovely tale, and a good exploration of the aftermath of grief.
-----------------------------------
Title: Awaiting The Thaw · Author: Bodkin · Genres: Romance · ID: 953
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2006-09-16 07:06:53
This is a beautiful examination of what things were like for Elladan and
Elrohir right after their mother left, as they threw themselves
recklessly into fighting Orcs--seen through the eyes of the young healer
who found herself falling for Elladan. And it shows just how fated that
was, as eight hundred years later, she sees him once more. Very nice!
-----------------------------------
Title: Fair, Strong and Cold · Author: Ellethill · Genres: Romance:
Gondor · ID: 751
Reviewer: Nienor Niniel · 2006-09-16 07:37:58
This is a very interesting AU premise, and well executed. Often fics in
which the characters are forced to marry for political reasons don't
manage to set the situation up believably, but here the reasoning behind
it is actually believable, without the people who arrange the marriage
coming over as heartless, OOC manipulators, as in the more naive pieces
of the genre.

The softening up of the two characters for each other takes a long time,
but this makes the story even more realistic as we don't see a cliché
conflict-angst-and-solution build-up.

The language of this story flows very well. It is not trying to copy
Tolkien's lnaguage, yet it conveys a certain "ancientness". Many of the
scenes are gripping; my personal favourite being the one in which
Faramir teaches Éowyn some of his ranger skills.

All in all, I enjoyed reading this.
-----------------------------------
Title: Work Detail · Author: Gandalfs apprentice · Genres: Romance:
Fixed-length ficlet · ID: 789
Reviewer: Nienor Niniel · 2006-09-16 07:47:59
Clever, clever! This drabble manages to convey some erotic undertones
without getting in the least explicit.

I like how Arwen behaves in here. It's not a trait of her we see in the
books, but we learn very little about how Elves are in their bedrooms.
Why shouldn't they behave like that?
-----------------------------------
Title: Teatime in Rivendell · Author: Gandalfs apprentice · Races:
Cross-Cultural: Fixed-Length Ficlet · ID: 373
Reviewer: Nienor Niniel · 2006-09-16 07:59:07
How else would a Hobbit revenge himself than through food? Very funny,
and with Bilbo at his fiercest.
-----------------------------------
Title: The Hobbit and the Man: "All That Is Gold Does Not Glitter" ·
Author: Gandalfs apprentice · Races: Cross-Cultural · ID: 351
Reviewer: Nienor Niniel · 2006-09-16 07:59:21
I have always wondered about Bilbo's and Aragorn's first meeting, and it
is good to see something written about this. The premise that Aragorn
needs information about Gollum is quite probable, as is the fact that
Gandalf steered things a little. Aragorn's way of making Bilbo feel at
ease through pipe-weed is a really good idea.

I really like the closing phrase: it ties the scene in with canon and
transports more than is expressed in words about Bilbo's opinion on Aragorn.
-----------------------------------
Title: Tharbad Crossing · Author: Gandalfs apprentice · Races: Men:
Steward's Sons Fixed-Length Ficlets · ID: 253
Reviewer: Nienor Niniel · 2006-09-16 07:59:29
We usually forget that Boromir had to make a voyage as long as the rest
of the Fellowship (although he could go through Rohan) all on his own.
This drabble describes the hardness very well, and also that even with
his doubts, he still feels his resposibility for Gondor, which is a
major trait of character for him.
-----------------------------------
Title: Come When You Are Ready · Author: EdorasLass · Genres: Alternate
Universe · ID: 795
Reviewer: Nienor Niniel · 2006-09-16 08:00:01
A very creepy AU story: Denethor wandering through the halls of the
Citadel, following the voices of the Dead, without knowing what has
happened, hanging between the realm of the living and the dead. We also
see things from the side of the living, especially Faramir, who are
unable to help in any way.

This is a truly chilling story which still contains a positive note in
the relationship between Faramir and his father.

Nevertheless, it is somehow good that this is an AU, as Tolkien's
version is, I think, more gentle to the protagonists.

Very gripping story!
-----------------------------------
Title: Suspicion · Author: Gandalfs apprentice · Genres: Humor:
Fixed-Length Ficlet · ID: 791
Reviewer: Nienor Niniel · 2006-09-16 08:05:28
This really expresses Sam's dislike of Strider and its reasons
believably, as well as his resolve to protect Frodo, no matter how many
weapons that strange Man might carry.

To think that Sam himself will get to wear quite a lot of metal later...
-----------------------------------
Title: King's Man · Author: Gandalfs apprentice · Times: The Great
Years: Vignette · ID: 197
Reviewer: Nienor Niniel · 2006-09-16 08:18:18
This made me sniffle a little. I really like Halbarad, and it is great
when fic writers expand on the little that Tolkien gave us about him,
but the fact that we know he dies is just so sad.

This short scene shows so many things: the relationship between Aragorn
and Halbarad, the loyalty of the Dunédain towards Aragorn, and also the
resolve that Aragorn develops after his look into the Palantír.

Very well-written!
-----------------------------------
Title: On the Fair Hill · Author: Imhiriel · Times: Late Third Age:
Fixed-Length Ficlet · ID: 946
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2006-09-16 15:07:30
A beautiful, lyrical and poetical setting of the scene on Cerin Amroth
when Arwen and Aragorn plighted their troth. I can just imagine how
perfect it was--the scene was absolutely clear in my mind, as the author
had so expertly sketched it.
-----------------------------------
Title: For the love of the Lord of the White Tree · Author: Tanaqui ·
Times: The Great Years: General Fixed-Length Ficlets · ID: 870
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2006-09-16 15:12:03
What a poignant set of thoughts from Legolas' POV. I have long admired
the sheer strength of character shown by Legolas in putting aside his
longings for the sea in order to remain by the sides of his remaining
mortal friends, and most especially his devotion, love and loyalty for
the King returned. Other Elves might fade, if faced with such grievous
choices--yet he refused to, and remained to give his friendship freely
to those he *knew* he would one day lose.
-----------------------------------
Title: Roots and Branches · Author: Raksha the Demon · Races: Men: Other
Fixed-Length Ficlets · ID: 611
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2006-09-16 15:16:57
Yes, it would be Sam who would recognize that parallel. He knows plants
and trees and roots, none better. And he knew Faramir's quality as
well--at Henneth Annun he told him so. He's seen nothing to change his
mind, nor have the other hobbits. They may feel sorry for him in losing
two of his family members, but they feel no pity for someone who has
been dishonored--for the dishonor never touched Faramir. And good for
Sam in explaining it in such a way.
-----------------------------------
Title: Earth, Water, Fire and Air · Author: Fileg · Genres: Drama:
Fixed-Length Ficlet Series · ID: 469
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2006-09-16 15:25:24
Very powerful and thought-provoking set of drabbles. I was especially
struck by Aragorn's. He came to his kingship on the sacrifices of others
as well as his own, and I think that his acknowledgement of that is what
made him great. Beautiful job.
-----------------------------------
Title: Sixteen Singing Eagles · Author: Isabeau of Greenlea · Races:
Cross-Cultural: Fixed-Length Ficlet · ID: 678
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2006-09-16 15:29:04
Oh this was funny! Poor Eagles! But perhaps they feel a bit better about
things now! LOL!
-----------------------------------
Title: Drift · Author: Ribby · Times: The Great Years: Gondor
Fixed-Length Ficlets · ID: 203
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2006-09-16 15:31:44
How lovely, that even the fishes paid an homage to Boromir! I liked the
way they interpreted their sense of smell. Lovely image!
-----------------------------------
Title: Pity · Author: Elana · Times: The Great Years: General
Fixed-Length Ficlets · ID: 152
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2006-09-16 15:35:19
Oh how It knows him by now, knows that pleading for mercy is Its only
chance, knows that if, by his merciful nature he can be persuaded to let
down his guard for even an instant, It can pounce--yes, I've sometimes
thought that might easily be It's last temptation. Very well done!
-----------------------------------
Title: Summoned · Author: Agape4Gondor · Races: Men: Steward's Sons
Fixed-Length Ficlets · ID: 840
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2006-09-16 15:39:26
This captures very well the ambivalence Faramir must have felt in the
immediate aftermath of the War, still smarting and grieving from the
loss of his brother and father, and yet hopeful in his newfound love for
Eowyn and his newfound allegiance to the King, and his renewed love for
his Ithilien.
-----------------------------------
Title: Rejection · Author: Tanaqui · Races: Men: Aragorn Fixed-Length
Ficlets · ID: 903
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2006-09-16 15:42:22
Oh dear! Yes, I can see that happening to him, in the long course of his
years, as he journeyed to learn what he needed to learn--not only as a
warrior, but also as an "ordinary person". But we know he's nothing if
not patient. Well done.
-----------------------------------
Title: Unfolded · Author: Tanaqui · Races: Men: Fixed-Length Ficlets
With Children · ID: 906
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2006-09-16 15:46:08
Bergil is such an intelligent and observant child--and he clearly loves
and is devoted to, Faramir. I can see him, slowing briefly to observe
the Man he admires so, and to marvel in the difference that being loved
and being free can make.
-----------------------------------
Title: Call To Arms · Author: Space Weavil · Genres: Humor: Fixed-Length
Ficlet · ID: 857
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2006-09-16 15:48:36
This made me giggle. Now *I'm* wondering how Khamul could have some sort
of infection! Bad Guys just can never catch a break, can they?
-----------------------------------
Title: Merry Yules · Author: Marigold · Races: Hobbits: Fixed-Length
Ficlet series · ID: 114
Reviewer: Rhapsody · 2006-09-16 20:08:35
Wow. What a beautiful series of stories within a story which is written
so strongly and so powerful. From the first line to the last, I am
captivated. In every double drabble we get insight in Yule for Merry and
Pippin. Sometimes it's fuzzy and leaves you with a warm feeling, another
is just utterly angsty. It feels that for every reader there is
something here: humour, romance, angst, fluffiness, a touch of the
Fellowship and the Quest..... One of the highlights is when Merry woke
up next to Pippin... naked. The conversation that followed was simply
priceless.

[Im hurt. I thought we shared something special last night.

Pippin!

Lawks Merry, your face! Stop fretting, nothing of that sort happened.

Thank Elbereth!]

Oh my goodness! Priceless! I had to laugh so hard because I could so
picture Merry's face. I love the interaction between those two in this
work. Another one is how Merry insists that baby Pippin sleeps with him
and that he falls asleep with the dream that his parents are dancing. So
lovely and so innocent: very hobbity.

The determination to go with Frodo on the quest is magnificently
written, even without naming the hobbit in question, Marigold writes it
in such a way that you simply know.

Ow and the end:
[Pippin looked at him fondly. Brandybucks. So emotional.]

Very Pippin! I admire the skill on how Marigold wrote this ficlet
series. Each piece can stand on his own, but once you read it all, you
get a good overview of both Hobbits personal growth, their special
friendship and strong bond they share. A great read Marigold!
-----------------------------------

Title: Call To Arms · Author: Space Weavil · Genres: Humor: Fixed-Length
Ficlet · ID: 857
Reviewer: Rhapsody · 2006-09-16 20:16:11
Oh my goodness Space! I should have known that a drabble featuring
Khâmul should have come with a beverage alert. What is so like about
this drabble is that I can see the Witchking gathering his men, giving
instructions, scanning over the crowd and then slowly a very poetic pep
talk ends in the annoyed line:

[What dyou mean he has a note from his mum?]

What a great way to write to such a challenge Space! Simply excellent!
-----------------------------------
Title: Until Light Returns · Author: elliska · Races: Elves:
Fixed-Length Ficlet Featuring Legolas or Thranduil · ID: 707
Reviewer: Rhapsody · 2006-09-16 20:24:55
This is such an excellent drabble. There is so much in this 100 word
piece than meets the eye. It is full of hope and full of history. The
manner in which Elliska compares Anar's light over Greenwood the Great
with the light of the two trees is simply stunning. The Moriquendi do
not need the bliss of Valinor to know that there is so much to love and
to fight for. Why sail if you have such a leader to guide and rule over
you. You don't need to have seen the pride of the Valar or hunt after
the Silmaril to find something that is worth fighting for: nature and
the land itself, the love for Arda is more than enough. This drabble
gives me a great perspective on Thandruil and his people, one I don't
see that often. This is such a great drabble Elliska, thanks for sharing!
-----------------------------------
Title: Just a Little Shove · Author: Inglor · Genres: Humor:
Fixed-Length Ficlet · ID: 798
Reviewer: Rhapsody · 2006-09-16 21:21:30
I love this drabble. It is just so realistic from Glorfindel to pop that
question because, let's be honest, didn't we all think the same that
such a solution would have saved Middle Earth from so much harm? Isildur
was already sooo close and it would have been so tempting just to tip
him over. I just love this dialogue which feels as if it happens over a
good glass of wine, Glorfindel's almost flawless logic and Elrond's
musing answers, always political. It makes you wonder if the professor
might have once considered the same in a draft. Splendid drabble Inglor!
-----------------------------------
Title: My Eyes! My Eyes! · Author: Alassante · Genres: Humor:
Fixed-Length Ficlet · ID: 358
Reviewer: Rhapsody · 2006-09-16 21:30:47
Hehehe, no need for hiding from the [PMF=Pervy Men Fanciers] Alassante.
What a gorgeous visual of Glorfindel here. Yum! What a treat for the
reader, so incredibly sensual and evocative. Arwen's reaction is just so
fantastic: her eyes are so fixed on the elf, watching every move he
makes and then... so well timed. That one glance that changed her fate
and that of Aragorn *grins*

[If all ellyn are that big, I will wait and find a Man.]

Teehee!! Too bad we won't get Glorfindel's response to that. I would
have loved to hear his answer and how he would have acted upon it (I am
at least very curious what he would have done). *grin* Also, I hope
Aragorn doesn't find out, that won't do any wonders to his sexual self
esteeme, although, we all know the saying about size doesn't matter, but
who's gonna explain that to her? Delightfuflly naughty and written with
humour: simply wonderful.
-----------------------------------
Title: Teatime in Rivendell · Author: Gandalfs apprentice · Races:
Cross-Cultural: Fixed-Length Ficlet · ID: 373
Reviewer: Rhapsody · 2006-09-16 21:41:29
This is very Bilbo! Very sharp, witty, polity and utterly hobbity. He
never forgets, but neither will pass on of a plate of such delightful
treats.

[And he snatched Legolas's plate of honey cakes. "How does that feel?"]

I can't help to think: go get them Bilbo! That was indeed rude (but also
a very necessary action for the Mirkwood elves, I know). I can picture
how good Bilbo must have felt after that! A great drabble, quite in
character!
-----------------------------------
Title: Elfstone · Author: Gandalfs apprentice · Races: Elves: Other
Fixed-Length Ficlet · ID: 252
Reviewer: Rhapsody · 2006-09-16 21:47:38
This is a very nice drabble which shows the utter quality of the
Feanorian craftmanship. The author in question gives me a good feeling
that at the beginning all jewels made by this house were of first origin
good. A great drabble!
-----------------------------------
Title: Paper · Author: Dawn Felagund · Races: Elves: Feanorians · ID: 492
Reviewer: Rhapsody · 2006-09-16 22:12:55
Paper is another favourite story of mine. In elegant prose, Dawn gives
us a peak in Curufins life this time and also insight in his character
and the decisions he made to find his place in this family. This line
simply stands out and carries so much weight:

[Writing of it later, in the secret haven of the library: Let it be
known, I have claimed my destiny as the favored son of Fëanaro.]

This is so powerful and the scene before that, no, even better, this
whole story explains why Curufin felt driven to claim this destiny.
Everone in this family has a role and the inner strife amongst the
brothers is well explored. Maedhros who flinches, brash Celegorm,
Caranthir following his example... I also love the way, in this context,
how this connects your other works [the Gift and Another Mans Cage].

But what I like about this story is that in the end it leaves you
wondering if even Curufin is writing this. It feels a story within a
story; he either relates how he met his first love, or maybe his wife,
in a story. Or this meeting of love is a fantasy or& But how could he
possibly have run out of paper!!! I love when I come across a work like
this. As a reader you can decide for yourself what the author means with
it. Actually, there is a line in this beautiful short story, which says
it all:

[And so the paper is itself a loremaster, he thinks, like me. Each story
containing a story within and without, spiraling toward infinity in both
directions.]

Very though provoking and evocative, Tirion, Fëanors household, his
sons feel so real to you as a reader in this piece. A great read and a
gem of a story!
-----------------------------------
Title: My Eyes! My Eyes! · Author: Alassante · Genres: Humor:
Fixed-Length Ficlet · ID: 358
Reviewer: couchbroccoli · 2006-09-17 00:46:24
That is an absolute riot! Even knowing it was short you managed to suck
me in like a steamy romance novel only to pull the rug out from under
me. Nice. I guess once you've gone Noldo you never go back.lol
-----------------------------------
Title: Here You Cannot Leave Me · Author: Alassante · Genres: Drama:
Poetry · ID: 356
Reviewer: couchbroccoli · 2006-09-17 02:22:24
This poem captures the anguish and despair of one who has sacrificed Her
very life for the one she loved only to be left behind as he died first.
Only at the end of Elessar's life did Arwen comprehend the weight of her
father Elrond's foretelling. The author beautifully illustrates the
utter sorrow and the loss of the will to live by one who should never
have known the hand of death. Arwen's pain is tangible as the poem
progresses toward it's sorrowful conclusion. I was deeply moved by this.
-----------------------------------
Title: Tharbad Crossing · Author: Gandalfs apprentice · Races: Men:
Steward's Sons Fixed-Length Ficlets · ID: 253
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2006-09-17 02:56:47
A closer look at a very dramatic moment only hinted at briefly in canon.
At this point, Boromir could have given up, yet he heroically continued
on--and by this drabble, inspired by his love for his brother. Beautiful!
-----------------------------------
Title: A Hallowed Place of Both Peoples · Author: Imhiriel · Times:
Early Third Age: Fixed-Length Ficlet · ID: 944
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2006-09-17 03:00:07
A wonderful look at Eorl's point of view. Well aware that the people of
Gondor do not truly respect his people, still he knows that the Rohirrim
have their own source of pride and self-worth, and he will see their
oaths kept for his part, even when not trusted. A very pivotal moment.
-----------------------------------
Title: Was It For This? · Author: aervir · Genres: Drama: General
Fixed-Length Ficlet · ID: 204
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2006-09-17 03:09:13
Excellent parallels drawn between the deaths of Boromir and
Theodred--very thought provoking!
-----------------------------------
Title: Counting the Days · Author: Lady Bluejay · Genres: Romance:
Lothíriel & Éomer · ID: 281
Reviewer: Raksha the Demon · 2006-09-17 07:16:13
Delightful short story where Eomer, after agreeing to wed Lothiriel
sight unseen, speculates on his decision, and eventually tries to sneak
a look at her by spying on the company escorting her to Rohan - and
swiftly regrets his action.

Excellent dialogue. Eomer's rapport with Firefoot, and his handling of
the stallion, are particularly notable.
-----------------------------------
Title: Object Lessons · Author: Marta · Times: Late Third Age:
Fixed-Length Ficlet · ID: 668
Reviewer: Raksha the Demon · 2006-09-17 07:21:13
Interesting double-drabble about Faramir and Boromir as teenagers.
Boromir pays for his brashness, and Faramir teaches him a lesson, but
the story also aptly illustrates Faramir's love for his brother.

Perhaps Denethor promoted Boromir to Captain-General on the assumption
that the duty of leading Gondor's forces against Sauron might be less
dangerous than Boromir's games with his friends.
-----------------------------------
Title: Heirs of the Oath · Author: Elana · Races: Men: Other
Fixed-Length Ficlets · ID: 151
Reviewer: Raksha the Demon · 2006-09-17 07:32:44
I especially like the way Theodred is written here, brief as his
appearance is, intelligent as well as confident. Good parallels between
Theodred/Boromir and Eorl/Cirion, and skillful conveyance of the
poignancy in the doomed heirs never having been able to stand in their
ancestor's places.
-----------------------------------
Title: Both Beholden · Author: Dwimordene · Genres: Drama:
Pre-Fellowship · ID: 180
Reviewer: Rhapsody · 2006-09-17 08:33:10
This is a story I struggled more than I expected too, so I felt relieved
when I read the author notes to see that even the author felt the same.
This is a very insightful piece into Boromir's character and to be he
feels exactly as he is in book!verse. And I simply love Dwimordene's
Halbarad: sharp and keen, this characterisation is a treat and kept me
on reading. A nice read.
-----------------------------------
Title: Arwen's Heart · Author: Bodkin · Genres: Romance · ID: 139
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2006-09-17 14:45:49
This is an absolutely beautiful story. Arwen's strength and loyalty, of
which we are offered only brief glimpses in canon, are here fleshed out
completely believably. Yes, I can see in this Arwen a devotion and a
love that could accept a destiny beyond her comprehension, and endure a
forty-year betrothal, decades spent in a strang place among strange
people, and finally, an acceptance of a fate beyond her ken.

And the end--it made perfect sense, for to be beyond the bounds of Arda
*is* to be beyond all time, where time is irrelevant, and to wait means
nothing at all.

A brilliant job!
-----------------------------------
Title: In a Pig's Eye · Author: Lindelea · Genres: Humor · ID: 747
Reviewer: Bodkin · 2006-09-17 16:31:06
I can see why Pippin is so excited. Even if wallowing in a pig sty isn't
exactly my idea of fun! Everything else emphasises the difference
between hobbits and elves - but they both have pigs. But I do think
Pippin's reaction suggests he might have found and eaten some magic
mushrooms as well as the more normal sort! (But then, euphoria will do
that to you, too.)

I can see why Elrond doubted that he, at least, was up to the
seriousness of the task - even as he involuntarily responded in exactly
the way that made young Pippin such a support to his cousin.
-----------------------------------
Title: Hair · Author: Gandalfs apprentice · Races: Cross-Cultural:
Fixed-Length Ficlet · ID: 321
Reviewer: Bodkin · 2006-09-17 16:33:23
I feel for Legolas. To an elf, the inappropriateness of those hairy body
parts must have been almost stomach-turning! He'll never be the same again!
-----------------------------------
Title: Birthday Kisses · Author: Raksha the Demon · Times: Late Third
Age · ID: 59
Reviewer: Bodkin · 2006-09-17 16:39:06
So touching. I liked seeing a Denethor as a father who was unable to
show his love for this son like his mother rather than one who didn't
feel affection for him. And the puppy was a thoughtful gift - and one
that would have helped Faramir deal with his loneliness. And Mousie is a
great name for the pup's mother! I hope Faramir comes up with just as
good a name for this one.
-----------------------------------
Title: Pippin's Hands · Author: Pearl Took · Times: Fourth Age and
Beyond: The Shire · ID: 130
Reviewer: Bodkin · 2006-09-17 16:43:10
He had done a lot - been a lot of places and seen things others had not,
but under it all he was a hobbit who loved the Shire and probably valued
it more highly than those who had no idea how close it had all come to
being lost. And with a way of expressing how he felt. I'm sure his
audience felt a difference, even if they had no idea what had caused it.
-----------------------------------
Title: A Precious Gift · Author: Isil Elensar · Genres: Drama: First Age
Elves · ID: 250
Reviewer: Bodkin · 2006-09-17 16:50:42
I'm not surprised Finwe is a little anxious - after all, his experience
of childbirth is not good! I'm sure he will be waiting on tenterhooks to
see if Indis wakes up again.
-----------------------------------
Title: Suspicion · Author: Gandalfs apprentice · Genres: Humor:
Fixed-Length Ficlet · ID: 791
Reviewer: Bodkin · 2006-09-17 16:56:25
Well - that Strider would be very out of place in the Shire. I'm not
surprised that Sam was suspicious. And even a man with that lot of metal
will come off the worse with a cooking pot to the cranium.
-----------------------------------
Title: Legend · Author: Raksha the Demon · Times: Fourth Age and Beyond:
Gondor · ID: 933
Reviewer: Bodkin · 2006-09-17 17:01:13
The difference between romance and reality - the recognition of what is
important, the reason for what they did as opposed to the legend. It
must have been hard in some ways to bring up children to a safe world
and know it hung on a thread - something they will never comprehend. But
Eowyn has the right of it.

I liked her here - a clear-sighted shieldmaiden grown old, who still
knows what matters.
-----------------------------------
Title: Father and Daughter · Author: Imhiriel · Times: First Age and
Prior · ID: 943
Reviewer: Bodkin · 2006-09-17 17:15:02
I feel for Finarfin here - having to return home without any of his
children. His task is worse, in a way, than Elrond's arrival when he had
to tell Celebrian of Arwen's choice and the twins' delay, for there is
no knowing if Galadriel will ever be forgiven or whether her four
brothers will ever return. Her father knows, though, that he has left
her with a husband who loves her and will support her through all her
trials ... but he still has to face Earwen's grief.

I loved this. They are three elves I really like - and I feel they are
behaving very much in character - and I like the point of view. It is
very moving to see through Finarfin's eyes here.
-----------------------------------

Title: Merry's Magnificent Yule · Author: Marigold · Genres: Humor: The
Shire · ID: 211
Reviewer: Bodkin · 2006-09-17 17:28:11
Poor Pippin! The things you do to support your - er - intoxicated
friends through a bad evening apart from their beloveds. Even to being
mistaken for said Stelly. It's a good job Merry is unlikely to remember
this in the morning - although Pippin is likely to make him pay for the
embarrassment for a long time! This night must have seemed very, very
long. Even for a younger cousin doing his best to return the care Merry
had always lavished on him!
-----------------------------------
Title: Concerning Hobbit's Feet · Author: grey_wonderer · Genres: Humor:
The Shire · ID: 828
Reviewer: Bodkin · 2006-09-17 17:38:57
That Sancho! I can just see Pippin getting worked up about this. It is
such a very - er - male obsession. And with a highly entertaining
conclusion!

You do humour so brilliantly.
-----------------------------------
Title: Fëanorian Fates Drabble Series · Author: Alassante · Times: First
Age and Prior: Incomplete · ID: 214
Reviewer: couchbroccoli · 2006-09-17 18:35:20
I have never been very sympathetic to the Feanorians, deeming them to be
evil and the cause of their own, and the rest of the Noldorin exiles
misery. I have always preferred the houses of Finarfin and Fingolfin,
but these drabbles capture the complex emotions and motivations of these
doomed characters beautifully.

Erus Lament is a poem illustrating the sorrow, pain, anger, and
eventual forgiveness of the creator following the events of the
Kinslaying at Flight of the Noldor. This touching work is rendered in
rhyming couplets which progress through the range of emotions felt by
Iluvatar in brilliant fashion.


Chapter two finds Feanor struggling with the voices of his compulsion as
they force him down the path to tragedy. I find this view into Feanors
motivations to be insightful. His desire made him a slave to his
creations as his lust grew into an uncontrollable obsession. Even as he
lost all that was dear to him he was drawn deeper under their spell and
was consumed by the fires of lust.

In chapter three Celegorm seeks to redeem himself for the atrocities
committed by himself and his brothers, by committing even worse
atrocities. I enjoyed the circular logic employed by the author very
much. Nobody views himself or herself as evil, always finding some way
to justify themself. This is shown to perfection with this view inside
Celegorms head, as well as the fact that the curse against the Brethren
causes their prize to slip further from their grasp the closer they come
to regaining it.

Curufins cruel fate further illustrates this point as surrounded by his
slain brothers; Curufin attempts to reach the Silmaril as he sees the
Spirit fade from Caranthirs eyes. He is helpless to do anything other
than watch as he is rebuked and the jewel is wrested from his grasp
forever as it is claimed as wergild by Elwing.

The concluding chapter shows the heart-rending anguish and loss of a
mother who was sundered from her children and yet feels the pain of
their near simultaneous passing. Her sorrow compounded by the fact that
her children should have been eternal, but are now lost forever.

The powerful and rare glimpse into the thoughts of these complex
characters with the sorrow and anguish of their doomed lives has made me
change my view of Feanor and his sons.

-----------------------------------
Title: The Fords of Isen · Author: Branwyn · Genres: Adventure · ID: 41
Reviewer: EdorasLass · 2006-09-17 20:12:00
I love this! The grandfather's voice is perfect, as are the
grandmother's interjections, and the little boy listening with rapt
attention.

The story itself flows so well - I can imagine it being told round
campfires years from now with all sorts of embellishments having been
added. And the dynamic between Boromir and Theodred is wonderful - they
sound like two old friends who haven't let death bother them (much) or
get in the way of their friendship. The oyster shells and this :[I
should not complain to you of all people, but this river dampness
settles in my bones] are particularly nice touches.

-----------------------------------
Title: The Road Not Taken · Author: Branwyn · Races: Men: Vignette · ID: 104
Reviewer: Imhiriel · 2006-09-17 20:21:15
Wonderfully evocative scene, full of beautiful imagery and descriptions.
The inclusion of the swan, with all its symbolic allusions and
forebodings, gives this short scene rich layers of meaning.
-----------------------------------
Title: Drift · Author: Ribby · Times: The Great Years: Gondor
Fixed-Length Ficlets · ID: 203
Reviewer: Imhiriel · 2006-09-17 20:21:44
A beautiful, lyrical perspective of Boromir's passage down the Anduin.
The quiet, melancholy tone fits well with the stillness of the
underwater world.
-----------------------------------
Title: A Length of Haradric Silk · Author: annmarwalk · Times: The Great
Years: Gondor · ID: 69
Reviewer: Imhiriel · 2006-09-17 20:22:41
Wonderfully descriptive. The different shades of the silk evoking
memories of the Shire are a subtle yet poignant way to show Sam's
homesickness. His denial of the merchant's suggestion, only to bring in
the name of Mrs. Cotton instead, is amusing and touching considering
future events.
-----------------------------------
Title: Master of Shadows · Author: Space Weavil · Genres: Drama · ID: 245
Reviewer: Imhiriel · 2006-09-17 20:23:43
Good use of the motif of the Seven Deadly Sins: fitting comparisons and
imagery for each of them. Evocative language and descriptions,
well-handled emotions. Shows plausibly how the the process of being
turned into a Nazgûl might have worked.
-----------------------------------
Title: Reaping · Author: Dreamflower · Races: Hobbits: Post-Sauron's
Fall · ID: 169
Reviewer: EdorasLass · 2006-09-17 20:30:44
Ok, first - WOW. Just...WOW. I've never seen anything quite like this
before, and it's wonderful! Wonderful in a brutal, frightening way, of
course.

I LOVE the idea of following the fate of Ted Sandyman, after our four
wanderers returned and kicked all the rubbish to the curb. This is such
a stark depiction of what might have happened to him - indeed, a
portrait of what might happen to any person who decided to align with
the enemy rather than fight. The shunning of Sandyman by the other
hobbits, his smirking arrogance that everything will be fine once he's
found Men, the desperation of his flight from Hobbiton - all come across
very realistic. His over-inflated sense of self-importance is very in
character to me, and this: [Sharkeys orders was to let some of you
*think* you was in charge] was just chilling in its glee. The torture,
while horrifying, seemed very logical, if that makes sense.

I like very much that Sandyman didn't repent or feel regret for his
actions, and that he couldn't understand why Frodo would feel pity for
him. Truly excellent characterization of one of Tolkien's minor villians.
-----------------------------------
Title: The Groomsman · Author: Elen Kortirion · Races: Dwarves:
Fixed-Length Ficlet · ID: 44
Reviewer: EdorasLass · 2006-09-17 20:50:35
Somehow I feel certain that the Dwarves had very elaborate burial
rituals, and it is a wonderful sign of Gimli's respect for Boromir that
he takes over the preparations. This is a lovely image of Gimli, making
certain that Boromir gets treated with the proper dignity, seeing that
every detail is right, so that the Man of Gondor will embark on his last
journey looking his best. And the equating of Boromir with a bridesgroom
is simply heartbreaking. Lovely.
-----------------------------------
Title: Old Man Willow · Author: Jay of Lasgalen · Races: Elves:
Fixed-Length Ficlet Featuring Legolas or Thranduil · ID: 859
Reviewer: EdorasLass · 2006-09-17 20:59:27
I'm sneakingly fond of Old Man Willow, and I like this view of him, for
of course in canon, we only see him roused to anger. I very much like
Legolas purposely setting about "talking" Old Man Willow, as it were,
with the intent of soothing his loneliness in song. It's likely been
centuries since the tree had such contact - no wonder he's angry when
disturbed. Gently poignant and lovely - also, I think it's put ideas in
my head.
-----------------------------------
Title: Hearth and Home · Author: Molly Littlefoot · Races: Hobbits · ID: 730
Reviewer: EdorasLass · 2006-09-17 21:26:45
This is a very sweet and homey story -- I always forget about the Shire
and how most Hobbits probably continued on with their normal lives until
Sharkey came along. There are a lot of great details about day-to-day
Hobbity life and the idea that a family besides the Bagginses might have
had "odd" friends is lovely. I like Molly's thoughtfulness in asking her
husband to bring Man-sized dishes for Ranger Vis to use, and the way she
comes to look at Vis as one of her own. She's a lovely, warm and open
hobbit, and I would greatly enjoy spending time in her kitchen.

I'm sure that Vis is very grateful to have a place to go where he can
go, be coddled and scolded and fed well and treated like family. Leading
the often hard life of a Ranger, these little comforts must feel like a
world of riches and give him many lovely memories to keep his spirits up
on cold nights in the wild.

I like Molly's wifely worries, and her very realistic reactions to
hearing about the incidents at the Prancing Pony, and overhearing only
vague things about the impending War. I think hearing only rumours and
third-hand information might be scarier than actually being there -
rumours would only feed uncertainty and you would have no way to
actually prepare properly for whatever bad times might be coming.

And now you've made me very hungry for ginger biscuits.
-----------------------------------
Title: Of All the Pretty Little Horses · Author: Oshun · Genres: Humor:
Gondor · ID: 736
Reviewer: EdorasLass · 2006-09-17 21:31:35
Ha! What else would a man of Rohan be looking at with such intensity but
a horse? And when Faramir says [I have no doubt that fully grown she
could take on any but the stoutest of warriors], I can just imagine what
unbelievably confused thoughts Eomer must have been having! Thank
goodness Faramir realized what Eomer was actually asking - who knows
what other misunderstandings might have occurred!
-----------------------------------
Title: Roots and Branches · Author: Raksha the Demon · Races: Men: Other
Fixed-Length Ficlets · ID: 611
Reviewer: EdorasLass · 2006-09-17 21:39:35
This has a nice feeling of relief to it - all of Faramir's worries are
very realistic, and have clearly been preying on his mind for some time.
I love Sam's metaphor - so Hobbity and more specifically, so very Sam.
It's got a lovely symbolism and connection with the newly-planted White
Tree, which is likely something which Faramir has his own personal
connection to, and the way Sam's words steady him is wonderful. I can
easily imagine Faramir remembering this overheard conversation, if he
has self-doubts in the future.
-----------------------------------
Title: Birthday Kisses · Author: Raksha the Demon · Times: Late Third
Age · ID: 59
Reviewer: EdorasLass · 2006-09-17 22:08:49
I very much like seeing this from Imrahil's POV - he's not objective, by
any means, but it's interesting to see his view of Steward and sons,
combined with his own memories of his sister. Faramir and the puppy are
terribly cute in their equal excitement at meeting, and it's very
touching that Denethor sent Finduilas' dog away, yet went to the effort
to have Imrahil bring one of Mousie's pups for Faramir's birthday. It's
also poignant that the pup is basically a surrogate recipient of
Faramir's affections for his father, since Denethor can't easily show
affection for his youngest.
-----------------------------------
Title: Gaiety in Gondor · Author: Raksha the Demon · Genres: Humor:
Fixed-Length Ficlet · ID: 563
Reviewer: EdorasLass · 2006-09-17 22:16:58
This makes me giggle like a crazy girl. Faramir's interpretation of
Aragorn's request, and Aragorn's intial confusion are wonderful. I like
Aragorn fretting at the consequences if Pongohil starts flirting with
Eomer - that could be tragic indeed! The whole dynamic between Faramir
and Aragorn is very nicely done - they seem like they're very
comfortable with each other at this point.

And this: [Make him stop! Gimli will kill him! Faramir, go dance with
the man, or something! ] made me laugh so hard I snorted. Sacrifice
Faramir to the flirty cousin!

And of course the ending:[I meant that they understood the spirit of
revelry, Faramir.] also another snort-laugh and gentle poke at the very
common fic portrayal of Legolas and Gimli.



-----------------------------------
Title: Legend · Author: Raksha the Demon · Times: Fourth Age and Beyond:
Gondor · ID: 933
Reviewer: EdorasLass · 2006-09-17 22:26:04
This is a lovely, thoughful view of Eowyn in her later years, reflecting
on the actions that made her legendary. She seems to be standing a bit
outside of her memories, even while recalling the fear and terror she
experienced on the battlefield, and that strikes me as very realistic. I
like that she admits to herself that now she has trouble lifting weapons
(and I also like the implication that she's kept up with her
Shieldmaiden training for all these years) as she catalogues the
limitations which age has brought.
This: [They say he is like me; I know not. He is very young and
impudent.] made me laugh out loud. Oh, certainly Eowyn was never young
and impudent!
And I love the ending. It's so very Eowyn - fierce and ready to do what
she must to defend those she loves.

-----------------------------------
Title: Such a Little Thing · Author: Ribby · Genres: Alternate Universe
· ID: 206
Reviewer: EdorasLass · 2006-09-17 22:34:24
This is just.....awesome. In a really really bad way. Which is good.
Holy crap, Boromir killing Aragorn, stealing horses, giving himself
wholly to the Ring and its will - boy, when you do evil, you don't mess
around, do you?

[Faramir died in the flames, screaming his brother's name]
This scene always freaked me out SO badly in the book, and now you've
just upped the freak-out factor. I don't even want to dwell it for too
long, because it's making my spine creep. Honestly, just this one line
would be horrifying enough to do that.

[Alas for Boromir the Fair-they will look for him from the White Tower,
but he will not return.]
I love this line. It's such an vicious knife-twist, contrasting canon
with this perfectly terrifying AU vision in a way that's just like a
punch to the gut.

-----------------------------------
Title: Gondor Needs No King · Author: Ribby · Times: The Great Years:
Gondor Fixed-Length Ficlets · ID: 207
Reviewer: EdorasLass · 2006-09-17 22:41:09
And here is the sequel! I love Denethor's rather smug and cruel view of
what's happened. Honestly, he doesn't sound too broken up about poor
Faramir's fate - his mind is wholly focused on the "victory" he's
achieved, and Boromir's role in the taking of the Ring. Actually, his
pride in Boromir is rather creepy, and I'm not quite sure why. But it
is, very much so.
And the succinct portrayal of Boromir is equally creepy: [Boromir
glanced up, his smile wolfish and predatory]. Talk about cause a shudder
It's a bleakly chilling continuation, and I enjoy re-reading both of
these pieces. Well, perhaps "enjoy" isn't the right word -- but you know
what I mean.
-----------------------------------
Title: Drift · Author: Ribby · Times: The Great Years: Gondor
Fixed-Length Ficlets · ID: 203
Reviewer: EdorasLass · 2006-09-17 22:47:34
This is such a lovely, unusual POV. The image of the fishes living their
fishy lives having become used to boats that they're taken for granted
until something different comes along is nicely done. And when something
different does come along, of course they want it far away from their
home. I really like the idea that Boromir's boat holds the scent of his
travelling companions' tears and grief , as well as the darkness that
was the cause of his death.
And oh, the fishes delivering the boat to the shore, for a Man to find.
That's just heartbreaking.
Very nicely understated in its melancholy and sorrow.
-----------------------------------
Title: Of Herbs and Stewed Rabbit · Author: Altariel · Genres: Drama:
Gondor Fixed-Length Ficlet · ID: 91
Reviewer: dkpalaska · 2006-09-17 23:02:57
It is difficult to believe now, but the first time I read this drabble I
did not even "get" the brilliant and unusual crossover. I took it as
simply yet another unique and well-imagined perspective from this
particular author. (It had been an embarrassingly long time since I had
devoured Watership Down, although I loved the book deeply when I had
read it. Nothing else Richard Adams wrote ever quite measured up for me.
And I have never again looked at rabbits in quite the same way...) I was
doubly flabbergasted when I finally clued in on a later re-reading.

Altariel is masterful at the art of making every single word count in
any length story, but it is especially evident in her drabbles. The
history and current state of Ithilien, Gollum's hunt, the battle with
the Haradrim, and Sauron's influence are all portrayed - from the point
of view of one of the humblest dwellers in the land. Before I clued in
to the crossover, I thought it was a very believable perspective from a
"canon character" that I had never considered before. Once I realized
the connection to WD, however, I couldn't believe how many elements from
the book were oh-so-smoothly worked in. It is beautifully wrought and
believably portrayed - one of my favorite true drabbles! And now I will
never look at that chapter in [The Two Towers] in the same way again,
either - there will always be this furry little narrator in the
background...
-----------------------------------
Title: The Long Road Home · Author: AmandaK · Genres: Alternate Universe
· ID: 743
Reviewer: EdorasLass · 2006-09-17 23:04:08
Your supporting characters are very real, and Boromir's relationship
with each seems completely natural. I'm so glad you didn't make Nineth
his redemption - I find it mildly to extremely irritating when
redemption comes through a romantic relationship. Yet it's very true to
Boromir's personality that he made sure she and her son were taken care
of. It's also a logical progression that he'd fall into defending the
lands from stray Orcs - of course he would. That's what he was taught to
do his entire life. And yay, now he's a folk hero!

And poor Faramir, having to keep his brother's well-being a secret! What
stress that secret must have given him! But it makes sense, whether or
not Aragorn agrees.

I particularly like that Boromir is full of regrets and guilt, yet not
crippled by those things. He's haunted by the past, but doesn't dwell on
it so much that you want to smack him for being self-indulgent. He just
takes each of his doubts as they come, deals with them, and doesn't fall
into self-loathing for any amount of time. Very nicely done!
-----------------------------------
Title: But the Scent Still Lingers · Author: Imhiriel · Times: The Great
Years: Gondor Fixed-Length Ficlets · ID: 947
Reviewer: dkpalaska · 2006-09-17 23:15:35
This is a wonderfully done contrast between youth and old age via
Ioreth's recollections - and there is not a single mention of her
garrulousness! She feels more complete and whole to me in this small
drabble than she does in Tolkien's canon, where I've always looked on
her as somewhat ridiculously and unfairly portrayed.

I thought the shifts between the girl versus the matron was particularly
well done using just a few very well-chosen images: the changes in her
hands, feet and hair. Those descriptions gave me a very clear picture of
"then" and "now" in the drabble. Having Thorongil/Aragorn as the link
between the two times was excellent and unexpected, although I found the
premise for her past connection to him to be very believable. Her memory
of the roses twined in her hair also drew a nice link to her comments in
the Houses of Healing when she sees Aragorn again after so many years.
Naturally, his Dunedain heritage would mean that he aged much more
slowly than less pure-blooded mortals, and he would be instantly
recognizable to her.

I really enjoyed the idea that Ioreth had known Aragorn as Thorongil.
This would be a very special memory for her, something to be treasured
in her heart; enough that I doubt she would share it, lest doing so
somehow diminishes it.
-----------------------------------
Title: Lossarnach Yule · Author: Isabeau of Greenlea · Races: Men:
Gondor · ID: 677
Reviewer: dkpalaska · 2006-09-17 23:29:54
This story focuses almost entirely on OCs - some established by the
author in other stories, but most of them completely new to this writing
- along with a couple of very minor Tolkien characters. All of it takes
place either on a small family farm or in a nearby town in Lossarnach,
and Isabeau uses the setting to great advantage. Many details of daily
life and circumstances for the working and merchant classes are tucked
into the flow of events, and they add richness, depth and believability
to the people in the story. I was particularly interested in the brief
exploration of the cheese-maker and the weaver, as middle-class women
who apparently hold positions of some respect within the community.

I loved the focus on Lorend and his family. He is mostly a minor OC in
other tales, but the additions to his back story and the development of
his character were very enjoyable. I would love to read "The Further
Tales of Lorend and Silivren" some day. Will the irrepressible flirt
finally be tamed?

Although I dearly love the stories Isabeau has written from the POV of
her OFC Hethlin, I am always happy to indulge in an opportunity to see
Heth from someone elses perspective. I laughed aloud at the thought of
her dealing with Silivrens flirting, and Mablung and Lorends quiet
enjoyment of her whole predicament. We got subtle hints at the end about
some of her stories to come, and I was very happy to read that her deeds
on the Pelennor were spread beyond just Minas Tirith.

Perhaps my favorite part, and one that added a tremendous amount to the
story, was the weaving of the old religious beliefs into the plot. The
tradition of the Lord, the Hunter and the Trickster and the sacrifices
made to them seemed quite believable to me. And in fine
Yuletide/Christmastime story style, [Lossarnach Yule] has an uplifting
and timeless ending, with a reminder for us that  should it take
decades, generations or an Age: [all darkness passes, and the light
does return.]

All this said, though, the one regret I had at the end of the story is
that we will eventually see the death of Arcag the Unsung Horse Hero!
Between the boar, the Mumaks and handling the wraiths in [Captain, My
Captain] (at least as well as Faramirs fancy Dol Amroth-bred mare),
Im very sorry that he had to go. I know that hes not as pretty or as
well-trained as Fortune, but: Arcag, you were one of a kind.

Fortunately&
-----------------------------------
Title: Mellyn · Author: Pentangle · Genres: Drama · ID: 322
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2006-09-18 18:37:18
Rather cute little story of the first meeting of Legolas and little Estel.
-----------------------------------

Title: A Lasting Peace · Author: SueB · Genres: Drama · ID: 711
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2006-09-18 18:42:44
This was a very absorbing adventure. When a tentative peace overture
from Harad is threatened, all sorts of suspenseful things take place. I
was impressed very much with the characterizations--Aragorn, Legolas,
Gimli and Imrahil were are very much true to their canon characters. But
the real star was Faramir, who got a chance in this to truly display all
the noble qualities that he has in the books. Eowyn as well is
wonderfully done, and the love between the two is strong, but not sappy.
There are several finely drawn OCs as well, both good and bad guys. I
was very impressed with Henvain, who in many ways reminded me of Sam. A
little overly descriptive at times, but an excellent read!
-----------------------------------
Title: Bad Step · Author: Mariole · Races: Hobbits: Incomplete · ID: 786
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2006-09-19 01:09:55
This is a highly suspenseful and intricate classic hurt-comfort. And it
is that rarity: a SAM h/c! It's set pre-Quest--Sam manages to injure
himself and get himself trapped in a hole, where he remains for a few
days because Frodo's away, his family *think* he went with Frodo, and no
one knows he's missing. I love the angst and suspense in this, and Frodo
is marvelous as Sam's rescuer (I do so love seeing Frodo get to be the
hero/caretaker) and we get some wonderful characterizations of all the
various Gamgees, as well as many of the Hobbiton neighbors. I do so hope
that it will be continued very soon. It's a wonderful read!
-----------------------------------
Title: Elemental Spirits · Author: Marigold · Races: Hobbits:
Fixed-Length Ficlet series · ID: 693
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2006-09-19 01:13:44
In this four drabble set, the author compares each of the four hobbits
to one of the four elements: Frodo is air, Sam is earth, Merry is fire,
and Pippin is water. I must say that she absolutely nails each hobbit
with her reasons for the choices she made. Very insightful and
thought-provoking, an excellent look at our four special lads!
-----------------------------------
Title: A Bath-time Song · Author: SlightlyTookish · Races: Hobbits:
Children · ID: 133
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2006-09-19 01:23:02
An adorable little bit of Bilbo and Pippin, as Bilbo gives wee Pippin a
bath, and teaches him a rather famous bath song! Very cute!
-----------------------------------
Title: Sisters · Author: grey_wonderer · Races: Hobbits: Children · ID: 182
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2006-09-19 01:30:31
A young Pippin muses over the disadvantages of having three older
sisters. He feels himself very outnumbered and put upon most of the
time, and GW shows this in a very humorous fashion. But by the end of
the story, he also finds some advantages in having sisters to fuss over him.

And we are treated to a lovely character sketch of each sister, and a
touching snapshot of life in Pippin's childhood home.
-----------------------------------
Title: The Bond Between Us · Author: Lily · Races: Hobbits · ID: 963
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2006-09-19 01:35:49
This is a series of beautifully sketched vignettes examining the
relationship between Frodo and Pippin. In it we see just how much Pippin
adores and respects his beloved older cousin, and how that love has
impacted his own life. The author shows Pippin's own gradual maturing
and coming to terms with his life--and with Frodo's eventual leaving.
Very touching.
-----------------------------------
Title: The Hobbit and the Man: "All That Is Gold Does Not Glitter" ·
Author: Gandalfs apprentice · Races: Cross-Cultural · ID: 351
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2006-09-19 17:01:15
A very plausible first meeting between Bilbo and the Dunadan. I can
easily see Gandalf setting it up, so that Aragorn would have the chance
to question him about Gollum. And the Longbottom Leaf was an excellent
touch!
-----------------------------------
Title: Night Rain · Author: permilea · Races: Cross-Cultural · ID: 792
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2006-09-19 17:04:59
Oh yes! How the first touch of rain after the weeks of deprivation in
the deserts of Mordor must have appealed to Frodo. Just lovely--I love
Aragorn's concern, and his understanding.
-----------------------------------
Title: Fear and Loathing in Middle Earth · Author: vladazhael · Genres:
Humor: Fixed-Length Ficlet · ID: 407
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2006-09-19 17:10:12
I have a feeling that I would "get" this better if I were more familiar
with the other style and author involved. I did like the bit about third
breakfast, and the crebain described as bats, LOL!
-----------------------------------
Title: Gandalf's No Good, Rotten, Really Bad Day · Author: Gandalfs
apprentice · Genres: Humor: Parody · ID: 146
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2006-09-19 17:13:59
AU, and I suppose it could be called a dark one, if I weren't laughing
so much. Poor Gandalf--but really, he did show poor planning there!
-----------------------------------
Title: The Consequences of Curiosity · Author: A L Milton · Genres:
Humor: Gondor · ID: 153
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2006-09-19 17:15:24
Poor Aragorn! Talk about TMI! But he DID ask! LOL!
-----------------------------------
Title: Cacophony · Author: Gwynnyd · Genres: Humor: Parody · ID: 929
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2006-09-19 17:16:59
What Eru could have been in for, using music as his means of creation!
This is hilarious!
-----------------------------------
Title: Trivial Matters · Author: Thundera Tiger · Genres: Humor: Gondor
· ID: 839
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2006-09-19 17:19:02
Oh dear! Faramir has a wicked sense of humor, and Aragorn eggs him on.
Poor Legolas, driven to distraction by all those petty human irritating
habits! Very funny!
-----------------------------------
Title: Arwen's Heart · Author: Bodkin · Genres: Romance · ID: 139
Reviewer: stefaniab · 2006-09-19 20:12:10
"Arwen's Heart"is a nicely written story that moves at a graceful pace,
like the elves who populate it. Bodkin characterizes Arwen as a strong
willed elleth, who knows her own mind and makes her own decisions,
despite pressures from her rather powerful family. I was amused at the
sequences where her family and Glorfindel perceive Arwen as a delicate
flower who must be protected. They seemed oblivious to her strength.

This tale was my first venture into long, elf-centered fiction. I
enjoyed hanging out with Elrond, Celeborn, and Glorfindel, but had
difficulty differentiating between Elladan and Elrohir. Bodwin's Aragorn
is well-drawn and thoroughly believable.

The ending of this tale requires tissues, though it is hardly maudlin or
overdone, which is proof of the power of Bodkin's story.
-----------------------------------
Title: Bored · Author: Make It Stop · Genres: Humor: Gondor · ID: 779
Reviewer: stefaniab · 2006-09-20 01:13:40
Do the MEFAs have a laugh-o-meter for judging comedy pieces? Then
"Bored" would be get my highest rating. What a bizarre, off-the-wall
sense of humor Make-it-Stop has, which she conveys wonderfully in this
piece.

In "Bored," Faramir and Denethor's dinner discussion becomes a situation
comedy that occurs only in the mind of the two participants. It's a
perfect father-son show down, with each person thinking about what he
would like to do to the other person...except that both participants
know what is being thought. For example:

"Faramir visualized chopping down the White Tree, turning it into an
ugly, uncomfortable futon, and selling it to Orcs at a yard sale."

And Denethor's response:

"Denethor visualized a Fell Beast getting tangled in his sons hair"

Add to the mix an ennui-ridden guardsman with possibly confused sexual
identity named Weblog (now where could Make-it-Stop have found such a
name?). The result: a great comic diversion from the more serious
business of reviewing stories for the MEFAs.

"Bored" was inspired by Movieverse and by a phrase from Tolkien in the
LOTR appendices. I found it fun to imagine David Wenham and John Noble
as their movie characters, sitting down to dinner and having this spat.
But those who prefer book verse need only imagine their favorite visions
of Faramir and Denethor to enjoy "Bored" immensely.
-----------------------------------
Title: A Golden Light in the Time of Darkness · Author: wenont · Genres:
Alternate Universe · ID: 911
Reviewer: kwannom · 2006-09-20 03:05:35
This story is very unique, because it combines mystery, adventure and
romance in a very interesting and unusual way. The author's knowledge on
war subjects, like the use of weaponry and battle strategies is
fantastic and it makes the story even more real. The reader is
introduced to war ranks, the complex military code that governs the
lives of the officers and soldiers around family, friends and society,
among other traits that anyone interested in war subjects would love.
The use of flashbacks is very well done and gives a feeling that you
have around three stories instead of only one. Another good point in
this fic is the new race the author created for her original character.
It is fascinating and is completely connected with the way Tolkien has
created the races presented in TLOTR. This fic deserves a nomination
especially now that the revisions made turned the story into something
even more complex and entertaining. Now it also deals with taboos, a
particular one that some may find immoral, yet, it adds to the
characters' background stories and make them more believable. In truth,
the most interesting thing about this story is exactly that: this taboo
that is broken and that makes the reader see that the world is not only
about black and white; there are many other beautiful colors in it.
-----------------------------------
Title: Untrodden Path · Author: Timmy2222 · Races: Men: Featuring
Aragorn · ID: 308
Reviewer: Gandalfs apprentice · 2006-09-20 05:24:23
This tale begins with Aragorn (very much in disguise) being saved by a
small village of fisher folk from a nasty death by water in the Dead
Marshes. It's a very creative, not very AU tale of the hunt for Gollum,
where the gritty hunter and tracker side of Aragorn intersects with a
wonderful OC, a young man who grows and learns under the tutelage of the
legendary Thorongil.

Then the tale moves to Moria, where a troop of wonderfully grumpy
Dwarves complete the cast of characters.

I think my favorite single moment was the loss of Narsil down the abyss,
to be retrieved, of course, by the young man, who thereby earns his
place in history.

Timmy2222 is leaving the fandom now, and it is our loss, but I wish her
the very best of luck in "real world" writing!
-----------------------------------
Title: In The Pits Of Utumno · Author: Jay of Lasgalen · Races: Elves ·
ID: 164
Reviewer: Gandalfs apprentice · 2006-09-20 05:27:04
I adore this clever tale of--never mind, I won't spoil it for anyone
else. There is the most wonderful O. Henry type flip at the end that
transforms the tale. If you think you've seen it before--heroic Elven
warrior battles evil Morgoth minions--you haven't seen it this way. The
identity of the villain at the end is priceless.
-----------------------------------
Title: Tharbad Crossing · Author: Gandalfs apprentice · Races: Men:
Steward's Sons Fixed-Length Ficlets · ID: 253
Reviewer: Raksha the Demon · 2006-09-21 05:46:31
What a wonderful drabble, taking Boromir from the extremity of misery to
the height of hope, and covering action and contemplation in the
requisite hundred words.

Boromir's weeping for the loss, and the suffering, of his horse, is a
good touch.

But I really adore how Boromir is inspired to continue his quest by the
memory of Faramir's hope. Faramir seems to bring out the best in most
people, and its great to see his inspiration affect his brother despite
the distance that separates them.
-----------------------------------
Title: Maturity · Author: Tanaqui · Races: Men: Fixed-Length Ficlets
With Children · ID: 899
Reviewer: Raksha the Demon · 2006-09-21 05:52:54
Very cute! I can just see young Faramir blowing a raspberry to embarrass
his big brother while Boromir is making out with a girl...and then the
tables are neatly turned later, after Faramir has discovered the
pleasures of making out with a girl...
-----------------------------------
Title: A Battle Of A Different Kind · Author: Katzilla · Genres: Drama:
Pre-Fellowship · ID: 279
Reviewer: Raksha the Demon · 2006-09-21 06:09:24
An excellent vignette wherein Eomer has to teach Eowyn a very hard
lesson. It's also very refreshing to see a writer who understands the
practical reasons why Eowyn, despite her talent and spirit for battle,
would have been more hindrance than help if she had ridden to the
Morannon with the Rohirrim, especially if her fellow Riders knew her
true identity. The writer makes the excellent point, through Eomer, that
training does not alone qualify one as a warrior, especially since
sparring partners and trainers would have been more gentle with the
King's niece than they would have with her brother.

And yet, there is something inexpressibly sad at seeing Eowyn's pride
ground into the dust - sad for the reader as well as for Eomer. It's an
excellent setup to Eowyn's eventual breakout in ROTK, as well as a
vignette that stands well on its own.
-----------------------------------
Title: Curious Mind, Noble Heart · Author: Nilmandra · Genres: Adventure
· ID: 270
Reviewer: Perelleth · 2006-09-21 11:50:45
This is a very intelligent piece. I always assumed that the pop guns had
been invented by dwarves and were toys, but giving it a background in
Imladris makes for a frightening, and also elightening experience and a
wonderful family moment. Everyone is in character. Elrond as wise and
all-knowing father to all his children, Glorfindel commanding, the twins
light and easy..except that their lightness and easiness are blurred by
Elrohir's fit of moodiness, which serves as second, deeper layer for the
tale. I admire how you manage to weave so many things in this short
tale: obedience and a lesson learnt, guilt, and the heaviness for long
lived elves of seeing Men die, be it of age or of wounds generation
after generation. A nice glimpse into Estel´s life in Imladris and the
education he received, and also another link into the family chain of
love and loyalty, as the child gives away the star pin and Elrohir plans
to give it back when he reaches his majority. Your Imladris is a
pleasure, Nilmandra, truly a place of healing, learning and reflection.
It is wonderful to play along in there.
-----------------------------------
Title: Make It One For Paladin · Author: Marta · Races: Hobbits:
Post-Sauron's Fall · ID: 48
Reviewer: Rhapsody · 2006-09-21 12:34:49
This is a very haunting story, which features a minor character in
Tolkiens world. But Marta lifted him out of this and gave this minor
character a strong voice about a topic to which the four should listen
and pay attention too. Yet, I cannot shake off the feeling that this
will not happen, because those will have their own nightmares to deal
with. The story relates with the aftermath of a war in Robins tormented
mind where he relates the not so heroic part of the occupation of the
Shire. From Martas great writing you feel for him, you get to see a
glimpse his tortured mind, those who died, and not the very least: the
loved ones who were left behind. It is easy only to wanting to celebrate
freedom and shove aside the pain and darkness of before, but just as
Frodo cannot find healing in his precious Shire, I think it will take a
long time before the sun will shine for Robin again. As a reader I can
only hope that Robin finds healing again (since there will be no hither
shores to sail to) and the quoted lines from Tolkiens world gives this
piece the extra depth (although the piece itself can stand quite on its
own).

I like the structure of his story and how the author worked the rhyme
into it. The line ['Make it one for the Paladin'] stuck around in my
mind for days, while the story left a deep impression on me: a
marvellous work.
-----------------------------------
Title: Boats To Build · Author: Nancy Brooke · Times: Late Third Age ·
ID: 300
Reviewer: Rhapsody · 2006-09-21 12:48:11
Simply wow! Okay, this is not so very eloquent, but this is a very
impressive and emotional story. First, I love the narrative in this
story. When I read this, the author took me to the beach, made me feel
as I was walking in the sand, the gulls crying, and the waves gently
lapping. But besides this, secondly, I do admire the characterisations
in this piece. Boromir, used to his daily life in Minas Tirith comes
across a young arrogant and cocky boy who thinks he knows everything (in
that respect he is incredibly well written as a teen), but is basically
just mimicking everything he saw and witnessed in his life. Yet as a
reader, you feel for him, while his grandfather observes him and relates
to his grandson how his own father had to pick up the responsibilities
before his own time was there. Boromir clings on to the memory of his
grandfather the way he sees his own father, but yet he cannot comprehend
that a leader will never earn the respect of all, if he is willing to
lower themselves to that level too. The question of the sword is
incredibly well used as an example. This is how Adrahil breaks through
the thinking pattern of his grandson and makes him view the other sides
of life too.

And as a third, I love the sketch of the Dol Amroth seamen culture you
sketched for us here Nancy. This piece really felt free of the setting
of Minas Tirith and took us as a reader to the Dol Amroth way of life
and culture. This is such a treat to read, thanks so much for writing this!
-----------------------------------
Title: The Oathbreakers · Author: Branwyn · Races: Men: Aragorn
Fixed-Length Ficlets · ID: 42
Reviewer: Rhapsody · 2006-09-21 13:09:51
What a haunting drabble! Aragorn just in time realises not to speak of
another curse over the dead. This drabble says so much in well chosen
words. It simply gives me the chills!
-----------------------------------

Hullo!

I have a question about these daily review updates - maybe it has been answered before and I have missed it.

The header says "Reviews for 13 October" and yet these are reviews from several days in mid-September. And I have seen most, if not all, of these reviews showing up on the daily review updates repeatedly, which, if someone isn't reading closely, but just scanning the review header, gives the false impression that the same stories are being reviewed over and over. It also gives the impression that only certain people are reviewing, which is also not the case.

I am just curious for the reason for this. I know that the Admins are doing a lot of work, and it seems to me that repeating the reviews that you have already notified us about is an extra task for you.

Hugs,

Lesley (Marigold)

Marigold's Red Book
http://marigold.tolkienshire.com

Marigold's Recommendations Page
http://www.geocities.com/marigoldsrecommendations/

Marigold's Live Journal
http://www.livejournal.com/users/marigoldg/

Tales of The Red Book
http://www.livejournal.com/users/talesofredbook/






There, peeping among the cloud-wrack above a dark tor high up in the mountains, Sam saw a white star twinkle for a while. The beauty of it smote his heart, as he looked up out of the forsaken land, and hope returned to him. For like a shaft, clear and cold, the thought pierced him that in the end the Shadow was only a small and passing thing: there was light and high beauty forever beyond its reach.

Sam, in Mordor, RoTK



Visit our website: http://www.mefawards.net/MEFA2006/
Yahoo! Groups Links





[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]

MarigoldCotton@aol.com wrote:

> Hullo!
>
> I have a question about these daily review updates - maybe it has been answered before and I have missed it.
>
> The header says "Reviews for 13 October" and yet these are reviews from several days in mid-September.

What you see now is in fact the check ballot which we normally posted at
the end of the award season. Last year there were so many that it felt
like a flood and overwhelmed people. People on daily digest only saw the
half of it ect ect. So after this was adressed in Post Mortem, we
started to post the finalised reviews earlier (as requested). Marta
started in July with that and currently we are with posting check
ballots the reviews that were written on the 21st of September. I think
we will be soon caught up.

> And I have seen most, if not all, of these reviews showing up on the daily review updates repeatedly, which, if someone isn't reading closely, but just scanning the review header, gives the false impression that the same stories are being reviewed over and over. It also gives the impression that only certain people are reviewing, which is also not the case.

Unless a review has been modified by an Admin, for instance removing the
reviewers name at the bottom, reviews will *not* be reposted. A review
for a story will only be posted once, simply because when I have posted
the daily overview, I mark them as read and they will not pop up for me
again. If a story get a lot of votes, the check ballot should reflect
that because we have a neutral stance regarding this. The system sorts
the reviews for me on date. Not on category or which story gets the most
votes ect ect.

So I can assure you that:

a) reviews are posted once
b) the overviews that are daily posted reflects the people who were
reviewing at *that* moment (at this moment we are at 21st of September).
Later on you will see that on a certain date, there will be two days
with only reviews of you ;) This is the way how the system gives me the
reviews.
c) Since this is the check ballot and it mirrors the votes, yes it is
logical that it should mirror stories which gets the most votes... we
post all reviews to the group and will not leave out any of them.

> I am just curious for the reason for this. I know that the Admins are doing a lot of work, and it seems to me that repeating the reviews that you have already notified us about is an extra task for you.

I can assure you I am not repeating reviews. Just posting the check
ballot, but only earlier than we did previous years. I hope this answers
your questions.

Rhapsody

Title: Make It One For Paladin · Author: Marta · Races: Hobbits:
Post-Sauron's Fall · ID: 48
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2006-09-21 13:50:51
Such sad reflections by Robin Smallburrow, as he tries to explain to
himself his actions during the troubles. I like the way he feels himself
to be isolated among others, and the way the "song" is woven through the
story.
-----------------------------------
Title: Stones · Author: Marigold · Races: Hobbits: Friendship · ID: 571
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2006-09-21 13:59:55
This story is just adorable. I love Merry's utter frustration with
Pippin's snail's pace, and his bumfuzzlement when, just as he brings up
the subject, Pippin finds what he's looking for. The ["luck of the
Tooks"] indeed! Pippin's actions and reasonings are so perfectly
logical, in a Pippish sort of way.

As one who likes to collect memories and souvenirs, I most certainly
understand Pippin's efforts, and I love the ending!
-----------------------------------
Title: House and Home · Author: SlightlyTookish · Races: Hobbits:
Friendship · ID: 637
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2006-09-21 14:05:48
This little tale has a delightful premise: in order to loosen Frodo's
tongue, and in the hopes that he will let something slip about his
leaving the Shire, Merry and Pippin take him house-hunting in Buckland.
Clever Merry has chosen all the most run-down fixer uppers he can find,
in the hopes that the frustrated Frodo will drop his guard. Of course,
he's saved the best for last. Very cute story!
-----------------------------------
Title: Hearth and Home · Author: Molly Littlefoot · Races: Hobbits · ID: 730
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2006-09-21 14:11:10
It's the year that the Travellers left, and this OFC is musing over how
things have begun to change in the Shire, and not all for the better.
Her thoughts are very hobbity and domestic beneath her concerns.
-----------------------------------
Title: Boats To Build · Author: Nancy Brooke · Times: Late Third Age ·
ID: 300
Reviewer: Imhiriel · 2006-09-21 17:29:08
Beautiful, lush descriptions; flowing, lyrical prose. The activity and
at the same time peace of a seashore is evocatively described.
Boromir's inner turmoil is captured very well; I like how it's mirrowed
by outside details (["The fine, tight weave of his court clothes trapped
the sun and defied the wind. The white sand burned his eyes, so used to
cool stone."]).
Adrahil's decision clearly give him peace and calm and contentment, and
I think he gives valid reasons for his decisions, and explains them so
his grandson can also understand them.
-----------------------------------
Title: Seam of Stone · Author: hossgal · Times: The Great Years · ID: 129
Reviewer: Imhiriel · 2006-09-21 17:30:08
The story itself is told very well. Vivid descriptions, beautiful
imagery, meditative, lyrical language. I could really see the sun on the
buildings and smell the dust and leaf mold. The prose truly evokes
Edoras in a time of taking breath between great turmoils. They mirror
Gimli's thoughts and present occupation: full of hidden meanings and
secrets, shadows and duplicity.
However, I have to say I find the relationship between A/L (and
especially how Aragorn is portrayed in it) rather unbelievable, even for
a (slash-) AU.
-----------------------------------
Title: Imrahil's Daughter · Author: Madeleine · Genres: Romance:
Lothíriel & Éomer · ID: 183
Reviewer: Imhiriel · 2006-09-21 17:31:16
An enjoyable read, despite some canonical and grammatical errors. The
dialogues are particularly engaging, the witty repartee between Éomer
and other characters, especially of course between him and Lothíriel.
The portrayal of your two main protagonists and their so obvious
attraction towards one another is still as wonderful as in ["The Healer
and the Warrior"].
The problems Éomer reports of Rohan sound very plausible in all their
details.
-----------------------------------
Title: The Lost · Author: Altariel · Times: Fourth Age and Beyond:
Gondor · ID: 181
Reviewer: Imhiriel · 2006-09-21 17:31:59
Faramir's conflicted state of mind in regard to Brandmir comes through
very clearly and believably: his reluctance, perhaps even fear, of
connecting with Brand, of being reminded of Boromir, and thus him taking
refuge in formalities and the focus more on the political aspects of it
until he is able to see the boy for himself and not only for what he stands.
I particularly liked the conversation with Amrothos, Faramir's vision of
the boat on its further path towards the West and following from that,
embracing Brand for the first time.
-----------------------------------
Title: Arwen's Heart · Author: Bodkin · Genres: Romance · ID: 139
Reviewer: Imhiriel · 2006-09-21 17:33:06
Wonderfully realised relationships, complex and realistic. The emotions
ring true, are poignant and very affecting (especially the talk Faramir
had with Arwen in ch. 13 - and the scenes of the deaths of Aragorn and
Arwen had me in tears). Clear, evocative descriptions, lovely imagery.
I like the gradual development of the story, with its focus not merely
on Aragorn and Arwen, but also on the events of the world around them.
The characterisations are excellent, particularly Arwen: she is strong
of mind, intelligent, and loving. It's clear why Aragorn loves her, and
that she is more than just an award for him.
-----------------------------------
Title: The Secret of Dog Lake · Author: Karenator · Races: Elves · ID: 819
Reviewer: Gandalfs apprentice · 2006-09-21 17:48:57
What a grim tale for children! I guess Haldir is the type who takes
tykes to scary movies? Somehow I thought he was nicer than that....

The tale itself is terrific and very sad. Good work.
-----------------------------------
Title: Dear Diary · Author: Lily · Races: Hobbits: Pre-Quest · ID: 264
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2006-09-21 18:09:47
A very sweet and sentimental look at Primula Baggins, her hopes and
fears as she was pregnant with Frodo, and through his first year of
life. The last chapter, by Frodo himself is very bittersweet. Very touching.
-----------------------------------
Title: On the Anduin · Author: Gentle Hobbit · Races: Hobbits:
Hurt/Comfort · ID: 619
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2006-09-21 18:17:27
What if the orc arrow shot at Frodo on the River had found its target,
instead of bouncing off a mithril shirt? We get to see all the
Fellowship rally round the injured Frodo. Pippin's diistress is
especially angsty, as Frodo's surgery is so painful.
-----------------------------------
Title: In the Mind's Eye · Author: Garnet Took · Races: Hobbits:
Incomplete · ID: 144
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2006-09-21 18:20:15
A number of stories make mention of the Tookish fairy wife, and the
special insight she seems to have given her heirs--particularly Pippin.
But in this story it is the main theme, and we watch Pippin grow up with
a gift he does not seem to understand, nor even want. I hope it will be
updated soon.
-----------------------------------
Title: Tending · Author: Elemmire · Races: Hobbits: Post-Grey Havens ·
ID: 769
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2006-09-21 18:23:25
A very touching vignette: Merry is able to perform a special service for
his beloved cousin after he left--taking care of the graves of Frodo's
parents.
-----------------------------------
Title: By Any Other Name · Author: GamgeeFest · Races: Hobbits:
Post-Grey Havens · ID: 960
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2006-09-21 18:27:51
For years Sam called his oldest son "Fro" or "Frodo-lad", but never
"Frodo". Why? When his son confronts him on this, he has an unexpected
answer. This is a wonderful story, exploring something that I had never
thought about before.
-----------------------------------
Title: The Circle · Author: Karenator · Races: Men · ID: 778
Reviewer: Gandalfs apprentice · 2006-09-21 22:16:59
What a lovely story! You've seamlessly woven a tale of many parts into a
whole: Hurin's first Orc hunt, Halbarad the father, the sameness and
differences of Elves and Men, and hope for the future. The image of
Arwen as the bridge between the old and the new is very powerful.

Your writing is clear and descriptive, not overly wrought, and well-crafted.

Halbarad is, of course, one of my favorite characters and I recognize
meckinock's incarnation of him here: the hard-headed, practical guy who
turns a skeptical eye on too many soft pleasures. It was lovely seeing
him assessing his son's growth.The glimpse of Aragorn and his earned
authority through Halbarad's eyes is also spot on., and Elrohir is
captured in a few deft strokes.
-----------------------------------
Title: Under the Ympe Tree · Author: Bill The Pony · Races: Hobbits:
Post-Sauron's Fall · ID: 914
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2006-09-21 23:05:53
This story has the Gaffer's voice down perfectly! And his point-of-view
is so rustic and yet practical, and yet fanciful all at the same time.
I'm wondering what *this* Gaffer thought when they came back. And I love
the characterization of Widow Rumble, even though she doesn't say one word.
-----------------------------------
Title: A Letter Unwritten · Author: Bill The Pony · Races: Hobbits: War
of the Ring · ID: 855
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2006-09-21 23:08:57
I would only know this for slash from the rating--it could just as well
be Sam musing on his deep friendship. But his words are perfect, and he
sums Frodo's character up perfectly. Very moving.
-----------------------------------
Title: A Yule Visit · Author: SlightlyTookish · Races: Hobbits:
Friendship · ID: 981
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2006-09-21 23:18:03
Such a sad and sweet little vignette, of Frodo spending what would be
his last Yule with his cousins. Pippin and Merry notice that all is not
right, but there is comfort here for them all. A very sweet and cozy fic.
-----------------------------------
Title: The Gift · Author: Dot · Races: Elves: Featuring Mirkwood Elves ·
ID: 160
Reviewer: Marta · 2006-09-21 23:33:03
This is a neat little interlude. I particularly liked the way you used
the song, it reminded me of how the Valar sang the original Two Trees to
life. Thranduil would have had some definite opinions on his son moving
to Ithilien, and it was nice to see those toyed out.
-----------------------------------
Title: Breeze · Author: illyria-pffyffin · Races: Hobbits: War of the
Ring · ID: 974
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2006-09-22 02:17:37
This lyrical piece is written from the POV of a breeze, a bit of wind
from the West which has circled Arda for millenia, and seen many ages of
the world. But its purpose here is simply to bring a brief instant of
comfort to the beleaguered Ringbearer. Beautiful and moving.
-----------------------------------
Title: The Short Cut · Author: Garnet Took · Races: Hobbits: Friendship
· ID: 827
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2006-09-22 02:21:59
A cute little pre-Quest story, in which Pippin gets a chance to prove
Merry wrong for once. I really like Pippin's thoughts in this one,
especially about telling Merry he's wrong.
-----------------------------------
Title: Legacy · Author: Nancy Brooke · Races: Hobbits: General
Fixed-Length Ficlet · ID: 299
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2006-09-22 02:24:09
Pippin and Merry take a few moments to remember one who gave his life
for them. A bittersweet vignette.
-----------------------------------
Title: Perspectives · Author: illyria-pffyffin · Races: Hobbits:
Post-Grey Havens · ID: 991
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2006-09-22 02:31:17
On Tol Eressea, Frodo has experiences with three mighty figures of old:
Finrod, Celebrimbor and Earendil. The first one is very interesting, and
the second one humorous. But I loved the third one, and could hope that
just such a thing could happen for Frodo.
-----------------------------------
Title: Hobbit Lessons · Author: Citrine · Races: Hobbits: Friendship ·
ID: 729
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2006-09-22 02:50:23
This was among the earliest of fics I ever read, and so I am very
grateful to the MEFAs for giving me the chance to read it again--it's
just wonderful, how Boromir is portrayed here--his pride, yet his
nobility and his honesty with himself. And I love Pippin and Sam in this
as well. This is just a beautiful story, and one that takes well to
re-reading!
-----------------------------------

Refresh my memory, please, so I know when to go on a final
review-orgy, if possible.

Dwim

Hey guys,

I have updated a few links over the last week and try to make
announcements here when I do that. Those stories are: Tuxedo's "The
Last Hunter" and Ghetto Elleth's "House of Finwe", "You Watch to
Dissociate", and "In This Silence I Am Sinking". I have a sneaking
suspicion that there's one or two other links I've changed because
someone requested, but I can't remember what stories those would have
been. If you requested a link feel free to ask and I'll double-check
that it's changed.

Also, Meckinock's WIP piece "A Matter of Honor" is now completed.
Congratulations! So I have moved it from the "Incomplete" subcategory
to the "General" subcategory of the "Cross-Cultural" main category.

Moving "A Matter of Honor" into Cross-Cultural: General meant that
sub-category had fourteen pieces in it. Technically we allow subcats
that have anything between 5 and 15 pieces, but when disucssing it
with the other admins 14 seemed just a tad large, so we split it into
sub-categories. There were quite a few cross-cultural stories that
seemed to be about hobbits, so I set up a new "With Hobbits"
subcategory. This new subcategory should be visible if you look at the
site now. I hope this last-minute change won't cause too much of an
inconvenience.

Oh, and one last thing: someone asked when voting ends. The last day
of voting is November 20. That means you have until 11:59 on November
20, as the time is displayed by the site at the bottom of each page.
For reference right now the site time is 2006-10-15 02:55:43 GMT.

Marta

> -----Original Message-----
> From: MEFAwards@yahoogroups.com
> [mailto:MEFAwards@yahoogroups.com] On Behalf Of dwimmer_laik
> Sent: 14 October 2006 22:00
> To: MEFAwards@yahoogroups.com
> Subject: [MEFAwards] How long 'til voting closes?
>
> Refresh my memory, please, so I know when to go on a final
> review-orgy, if possible.
>
> Dwim
>

Hi Dwim,

November 20. I said this at the end of the other announcement I just made,
but I'll repeat it here: voting ends at 11:59 PM on November 20. So you
still have about a month.

Good reminder, btw!

Marta

Hi Marta- Sorry to sound like an idiot, but I'm new to
the group. Can we only vote for members stories or for
anyone? If so how would we vote for an outside story?
Would they need to be invited first? I have read alot
of non-member stories that I adore but haven't found
them on the member list and am unsure as to if I can
vote for them or not. Thanks Trina
(lovethosehobbits)

--- aure_enteluva <melayton@gmail.com> wrote:

> Hey guys,
>
> I have updated a few links over the last week and
> try to make
> announcements here when I do that. Those stories
> are: Tuxedo's "The
> Last Hunter" and Ghetto Elleth's "House of Finwe",
> "You Watch to
> Dissociate", and "In This Silence I Am Sinking". I
> have a sneaking
> suspicion that there's one or two other links I've
> changed because
> someone requested, but I can't remember what stories
> those would have
> been. If you requested a link feel free to ask and
> I'll double-check
> that it's changed.
>
> Also, Meckinock's WIP piece "A Matter of Honor" is
> now completed.
> Congratulations! So I have moved it from the
> "Incomplete" subcategory
> to the "General" subcategory of the "Cross-Cultural"
> main category.
>
> Moving "A Matter of Honor" into Cross-Cultural:
> General meant that
> sub-category had fourteen pieces in it. Technically
> we allow subcats
> that have anything between 5 and 15 pieces, but when
> disucssing it
> with the other admins 14 seemed just a tad large, so
> we split it into
> sub-categories. There were quite a few
> cross-cultural stories that
> seemed to be about hobbits, so I set up a new "With
> Hobbits"
> subcategory. This new subcategory should be visible
> if you look at the
> site now. I hope this last-minute change won't cause
> too much of an
> inconvenience.
>
> Oh, and one last thing: someone asked when voting
> ends. The last day
> of voting is November 20. That means you have until
> 11:59 on November
> 20, as the time is displayed by the site at the
> bottom of each page.
> For reference right now the site time is 2006-10-15
> 02:55:43 GMT.
>
> Marta
>
>
>

__________________________________________________
Do You Yahoo!?
Tired of spam? Yahoo! Mail has the best spam protection around
http://mail.yahoo.com

--- In MEFAwards@yahoogroups.com, Trina Strong <h2ocolor2001@...> wrote:

>
> Hi Marta- Sorry to sound like an idiot, but I'm new to
> the group. Can we only vote for members stories or for
> anyone? If so how would we vote for an outside story?
> Would they need to be invited first? I have read alot
> of non-member stories that I adore but haven't found
> them on the member list and am unsure as to if I can
> vote for them or not. Thanks Trina
> (lovethosehobbits)

Whether as a guest or under your own registered name, if you log into
the MEFA voting site (http://www.mefawards.net/MEFA2006/), and click
"Browse stories", you will see the list of all stories that were
nominated by members for this year's MEFA awards. Any story on that
list is eligible to be voted upon, whether the author is a member of
the yahoo group here or not.

For any story not in the voting database that you think should be,
keep a list and when the 2007 nomination season comes around, nominate
your list of up to twenty stories.

Dwim

> November 20. I said this at the end of the other announcement I just

made,

> but I'll repeat it here: voting ends at 11:59 PM on November 20. So you
> still have about a month.
>

Ok, November 20th 11:59 GMT. Got it.

Thanks!

Dwim

Ok, thanks for the info. trina
--- dwimmer_laik <dwimmer_laik@yahoo.com> wrote:

> --- In MEFAwards@yahoogroups.com, Trina Strong
> <h2ocolor2001@...> wrote:
> >
> > Hi Marta- Sorry to sound like an idiot, but I'm
> new to
> > the group. Can we only vote for members stories or
> for
> > anyone? If so how would we vote for an outside
> story?
> > Would they need to be invited first? I have read
> alot
> > of non-member stories that I adore but haven't
> found
> > them on the member list and am unsure as to if I
> can
> > vote for them or not. Thanks Trina
> > (lovethosehobbits)
>
> Whether as a guest or under your own registered
> name, if you log into
> the MEFA voting site
> (http://www.mefawards.net/MEFA2006/), and click
> "Browse stories", you will see the list of all
> stories that were
> nominated by members for this year's MEFA awards.
> Any story on that
> list is eligible to be voted upon, whether the
> author is a member of
> the yahoo group here or not.
>
> For any story not in the voting database that you
> think should be,
> keep a list and when the 2007 nomination season
> comes around, nominate
> your list of up to twenty stories.
>
> Dwim
>
>
>

__________________________________________________
Do You Yahoo!?
Tired of spam? Yahoo! Mail has the best spam
protection around
http://mail.yahoo.com

__________________________________________________
Do You Yahoo!?
Tired of spam? Yahoo! Mail has the best spam protection around
http://mail.yahoo.com

> -----Original Message-----
> From: MEFAwards@yahoogroups.com
> [mailto:MEFAwards@yahoogroups.com] On Behalf Of Trina Strong
> Sent: 15 October 2006 10:45
> To: MEFAwards@yahoogroups.com
> Subject: Re: [MEFAwards] Changed Links, Voting Deadline
>
> Hi Marta- Sorry to sound like an idiot, but I'm new to the
> group. Can we only vote for members stories or for anyone? If
> so how would we vote for an outside story?
> Would they need to be invited first? I have read alot of
> non-member stories that I adore but haven't found them on the
> member list and am unsure as to if I can vote for them or
> not. Thanks Trina
> (lovethosehobbits)
>

Hi Trina,

Since the MEFAs are a contest, you can only vote on those stories that were
nominated. Nominations happened back in the spring. Each member of this
group could nominate up to twenty pieces, either by themselves or someone
else. The author did not themselves have to be a member of this Yahoo group,
but the person doing the nominating did.

Now any one with voting privileges (that's any member of this group as well
as any author who was nominated back in the spring) can vote over at our
voting website, http://www.mefawards.net/MEFA2006/ . Here's how it works.

First go over to http://www.mefawards.net/MEFA2006/ . Log in (I'm resending
your name and password privately in case you don't have it anymore). Once
logged in click on the "Browse Nominated Stories" link.

From here you can see all the stories that were nominated. They come in all
shapes and sizes -- essays, drabbles, poems, WIPs, completed stories of all
lengths. Exactly what the story is, is given in the story information under
each title. Find one you think is interesting.

If you haven't already read it, click on the title. This will open up the
story in a new window. When you're done reading close the window. (Most of
the time you can do this by typing w while holding down the apple key on a
Mac, or by hitting F4 while holding down the ALT key on a PC.)

Okay, so now you've read the story and should be looking at the same page
you saw when you clciked on the "Browse Nominated Stories" link. Look over
in the right column. You should see two links: one says enter a review and
another says enter an author review. Click the "Enter New Review" link.

This will open up a new window. Give your vote a status: draft is not
counted unless you change it to something else; hidden is not shown to other
people until the end of voting on 11/20 but you can still edit it until that
point; final is visible right now and but you can't edit it after you submit
it.

Then scroll down. Type in what you want your review to say. This should be a
comment about the story. The longer the review the more points it gets, up
to a maximum of ten. Make sure you surround any quotes in [square brackets],
as those don't count. And click the "Preview Review" button when you've
typed all you want to.

The page will reload. You will see what your review looks like, and how many
points it will give the author. Assuming you remembered to put a closing
bracket ] at the end of any quote you should also see a "Save Validated
Review" button. When you're ready to cast your vote click that.

The page should reload, and you'll see the page you saw when you first
logged in, but at the top of the page should be a green-and-yellow bar
telling you your review has been saved. You can close that window and you'll
be back at the list of stories you can vote for.

That's a bit complicated, I know, but it's a lot easier to do it than
explain it. Anyway, to answer your basic question: you can only vote for
stories that have been nominated. Some of those authors are members of this
group, and some aren't. Does that make sense?

If you're confused you can email me privately. I'll be glad to help you as
much as you need.

Marta

> -----Original Message-----
> From: MEFAwards@yahoogroups.com
> [mailto:MEFAwards@yahoogroups.com] On Behalf Of dwimmer_laik
> Sent: 15 October 2006 12:38
> To: MEFAwards@yahoogroups.com
> Subject: [MEFAwards] Re: How long 'til voting closes?
>
>
> > November 20. I said this at the end of the other announcement I just
> made,
> > but I'll repeat it here: voting ends at 11:59 PM on November 20. So
> > you still have about a month.
> >
>
> Ok, November 20th 11:59 GMT. Got it.
>
> Thanks!
>

Yep, exactly. Glad to be of service. ;-)

Marta

Title: Somewhere to Belong · Author: Lily · Races: Hobbits: Pre-Quest ·
ID: 942
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2006-09-22 02:54:56
A lovely and sad story--Frodo is baby-sitting little Pippin, who is
sick. While comforting his little cousin, Pippin learns for the first
time of Frodo's parents. Their exchange and Frodo's private thoughts are
just lovely, and very much in character.
-----------------------------------
Title: Dance on the Way Down · Author: Aliana · Races: Men:
Post-Sauron's Fall · ID: 734
Reviewer: dkpalaska · 2006-09-22 06:05:12
This story flows beautifully, and the writing is precise and clean,
conveying exactly what the author wants while remaining understated. The
thread of the old song, as we follow its growth and change, connects the
"before" and the "after": the oppression of facing Mordor with no real
hope for relief, which becomes the innocence of young people who know
nothing but peace and expect nothing else for their own future.

Aliana does a wonderful job of contrasting the children of the two
times. The older characters' wartime memories are a mix of vague and
sharp, not all of them shared and many suppressed, carrying both
internal and external wounds gotten much too young. The younger
characters are truly still children, at an age when the older folk were
forced into early and grim maturity, and this "extended childhood" is
acknowledged as the way things ought to be. The narrator accurately
reflects that events are measured by whether they occurred before the
War or after the War, ["(f)or the space between was so wide&"]

Of all the wonderful inclusions in this story, my favorite has to be the
portrayal of the narrator's marriage. In only a few short exchanges and
reminiscences, Aliana conveys pages of information about them. I
especially loved the reflection, ["But still, she thinks. Still, it will
take a lifetime and more to learn this man."]

Aliana's story is actually the centerpiece of a trio, with the beginning
and end pieces written by Aeneid. There are events and characters
referenced that were developed in other stories by both authors, but
none of them are necessary to appreciate and enjoy ["Dance on the Way
Down"] by itself - it is superbly self-contained. However, this story
gains even more depth and poignancy by having some familiarity with
them. This is particularly true for the memories of the unnamed narrator
from Aliana's ["Fallen"].
-----------------------------------
Title: The Pippin · Author: GamgeeFest · Races: Hobbits: Poetry · ID: 937
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2006-09-22 09:31:46
A humorous parody on Edgar Allen Poe's "The Raven", featuring a ravenous
young Pippin. Very funny, and the poet keeps the rhyme and meter just right!
-----------------------------------
Title: What Goes Around · Author: GamgeeFest · Genres: Humor: Children ·
ID: 188
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2006-09-22 09:42:49
This is a hilarious little tale, that never fails to set me off in
giggles. It's a story-in-a-story, in which Merry and Pippin find
themselves in the unenviable position of disciplining their offspring,
which results in Pippin telling Merry a story of one of his--shall we
say, less than stellar--moments. His string of disasters, and the
outcome is side-splitting. As is the realization of just how devious
parents can be.
-----------------------------------
Title: The Story of a Garden, by Frodo Baggins · Author: GamgeeFest ·
Genres: Drama: Pre-Fellowship · ID: 713
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2006-09-22 09:45:08
Such a sweet tale young Frodo writes for wee Sam, little knowing just
how true it all will prove to be one day. Very touching and poignant.
-----------------------------------
Title: Not In Vain · Author: Pipwise Brandygin · Races: Hobbits: War of
the Ring · ID: 675
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2006-09-22 09:54:39
Such a wise conversation between Gandalf and Pippin, as they are on
their ride to Minas Tirith. It seems a very natural and realistic
conversation, one that would have to happen at some point--inevitable. I
always like stories in which the affection between Gandalf and Pippin is
examined. Very well done.
-----------------------------------
Title: Lothlorien · Author: laiquendi · Genres: Drama: Poetry · ID: 925
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2006-09-22 09:57:38
Very evocative.
-----------------------------------
Title: Sacrafice · Author: laiquendi · Races: Elves: Poetry · ID: 924
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2006-09-22 10:00:03
Well-done look at the movie-verse death of Haldir at Helm's Deep. Good
use of rhyme and meter.
-----------------------------------
Title: Instinct · Author: SlightlyTookish · Races: Hobbits: Hurt/Comfort
· ID: 965
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2006-09-22 18:13:40
I like this story for a number of reasons. For one thing it makes use of
an underutilized plot device--we know there were predators in the Shire,
and young hobbits would have been vulnerable to them. And for another
thing we see *both* the cousins protecting one another at the same time.
In addition, there is the bit of foreshadowing, of when Pippin finds
Merry in Mina Tirith. This tale is a very well-crafted piece.
-----------------------------------
Title: Sam's Voice · Author: illyria-pffyffin · Races: Hobbits:
Post-Sauron's Fall · ID: 964
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2006-09-22 18:16:53
Frodo reflects on what Sam's voice means to him. More than anything, it
is a protection from the darkness within him, that he brought back from
the Quest. Very lyrical and poetic.
-----------------------------------
Title: Relics · Author: Nickey · Races: Hobbits: Post-Grey Havens · ID: 620
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2006-09-22 18:24:08
This author does dark and creepy angst so very beautifully. Sam, trying
to still his memories of September, and what that meant to him, busies
himself with work, only to uncover the remains of something best left
uncovered. Or not. Being Sam, he does the right thing.
-----------------------------------
Title: On The Road Home · Author: Ruby Nye · Races: Hobbits: Post-Grey
Havens · ID: 889
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2006-09-22 18:34:32
This is a *whole* lot slashier than what I usually read, and I kept
trying to skip parts, but my eyes were caught by the angst, and the
desperation of their grief. They care about one another, and the way
they assuaged that grief was almost secondary to the love behind it. A
beautiful piece of writing.
-----------------------------------
Title: Incubus · Author: Werecat · Times: Fourth Age and Beyond:
Incomplete · ID: 127
Reviewer: Gandalfs apprentice · 2006-09-22 20:41:10
Okay, Werecat, I've just read this story again and it's making me
impatient. It's been months since you started it, building up a great
storyline full of suspense, establishing a wonderful cast of characters,
including some of my favorites--and nothing since. Generally I don't
like crossovers, but this one is so appropriate, and the creature
involved so Middle-earth (the nameless things in the deep), that there's
no jarring at all.

So finish it, already!
-----------------------------------
Title: The Fading of a Star · Author: Minuialeth · Genres: Drama:
General Fixed-Length Ficlet · ID: 219
Reviewer: Raksha the Demon · 2006-09-23 02:00:43
Sad and beautiful drabble, with a beautiful and particularly apt title.
Arwen's becoming a mortal must have been a wrench to many of her friends
and kindred, as this ficlet demonstrates in a gentle, but terribly
effective way. The last line is particularly brilliant.


-----------------------------------
Title: The Steward and the Wizard · Author: Acacea · Genres: Drama:
Gondor Fixed-Length Ficlet · ID: 522
Reviewer: Elen Kortirion · 2006-09-23 20:00:11
An interesting look at Denethor and his need to be the focus of his sons
lives. It lays the very plausible foundation of another possible cause
of enmity between himself and Gandalf with great subtlety and economy
-----------------------------------
Title: The Parting Gift · Author: Imhiriel · Times: First Age and Prior:
Fixed-Length Ficlet · ID: 948
Reviewer: Elen Kortirion · 2006-09-23 20:01:23
That is a beautiful thought that in all the ages that had passed, Elrond
still held and valued that parting gift. It gives a wonderful sense of
continuity - and the bittersweet thought that Elvish ties with the past
are, for them, a constant reality.
-----------------------------------
Title: My Eyes! My Eyes! · Author: Alassante · Genres: Humor:
Fixed-Length Ficlet · ID: 358
Reviewer: Elen Kortirion · 2006-09-23 20:02:02
Well done, that made me laugh out loud. And I like the idea that the
ethereal Lady Arwen has as much of an urge to squeeze a choice pair of
buttocks as the rest of us have! *g*
-----------------------------------
Title: Dark Appetites · Author: Elena Tiriel · Races: Villains:
Fixed-Length Ficlet · ID: 833
Reviewer: Elen Kortirion · 2006-09-23 20:02:29
Very chilling. It took me until almost the end to realise this was no
defeated orc but Shelob who skulked in the darkness. You have caught the
malice and bitter brooding beautifully.
-----------------------------------
Title: That Immortal Sea · Author: Marta · Races: Men: Steward's Sons
Fixed-Length Ficlets · ID: 265
Reviewer: Elen Kortirion · 2006-09-23 20:04:56
Great crossover, this was something that really made me smile alot - now
I'm not sure if I see Johnny Depp in a long blond wig, or Legolas
whacked out on illicit substances - magic mushrooms anyone? *g*
-----------------------------------
Title: With Bow and Blade · Author: Lady Aranel · Races: Elves:
Fixed-Length Ficlet Featuring Legolas or Thranduil · ID: 282
Reviewer: Elen Kortirion · 2006-09-23 20:05:39
I very much like this view of their intimate connection, something above
merely human intuition. And the staccato tempo of the language invokes
the focus of battle very well; when everything is reduced to the actions
that kill your enemy and keep you alive. The double view works
beautifully to realise both the story and to convey the closeness of
their relationship
-----------------------------------
Title: Of Herbs and Stewed Rabbit · Author: Altariel · Genres: Drama:
Gondor Fixed-Length Ficlet · ID: 91
Reviewer: Elen Kortirion · 2006-09-23 20:06:51
Nice crossover. It's very interesting to read little views that come
from other 'universes' so to speak, and yet they provide another
dimension to Middle-earth
-----------------------------------
Title: Midwinter in Mordor · Author: Tanaqui · Races: Villains:
Fixed-Length Ficlet · ID: 872
Reviewer: Elen Kortirion · 2006-09-23 20:07:37
Very dark indeed! Yet it caters very well to the fact that every race,
real or fictional, seems to evolve a winter festival of feasting - I'm
just glad ours centres around cakes and turkey!
-----------------------------------
Title: Making the Legends of Our Times · Author: Gwynnyd · Times: Fourth
Age and Beyond: Fixed-Length Ficlet · ID: 860
Reviewer: Elen Kortirion · 2006-09-23 20:08:37
That last line really made me smile - so artless, so typically
childlike, but such a terrific look at events turning to disconnected
legends. I'd love to see the little lasses face when someone tells her
who her grandmother is - she'll be so proud!
-----------------------------------
Title: Work Detail · Author: Gandalfs apprentice · Genres: Romance:
Fixed-length ficlet · ID: 789
Reviewer: Elen Kortirion · 2006-09-23 20:10:00
That is a very charming vision you have going there... a very happy and
cosy look at the intimacy between those two - to say 'young' lovers is
hardly correct, so let's just say newly-weds. *g*
-----------------------------------
Title: The Beginning of a Beautiful Friendship · Author: Elana · Times:
Early Third Age: Fixed-Length Ficlet · ID: 150
Reviewer: Elen Kortirion · 2006-09-23 20:10:50
How delicious! And of course, there has to be a first time for their
meeting - I love that it was over pipe-weed, and the promise of
fireworks to come.
-----------------------------------

Title: Tharbad Crossing · Author: Gandalfs apprentice · Races: Men:
Steward's Sons Fixed-Length Ficlets · ID: 253
Reviewer: Elen Kortirion · 2006-09-23 20:12:03
This so very skillfully conveys Boromir's determination and
singlemindedness - he is Gondor and whatever happens, Gondor will see it
done.
But you still just wanna give him a hug!
-----------------------------------
Title: Suspicion · Author: Gandalfs apprentice · Genres: Humor:
Fixed-Length Ficlet · ID: 791
Reviewer: Elen Kortirion · 2006-09-23 20:14:42
Dear Sam, so loyal and so unworldy when they start out on that great and
terrible journey. You have caught him very well here in a lovely little
character sketch.
-----------------------------------
Title: Following Orders · Author: EdorasLass · Times: The Great Years:
Gondor Fixed-Length Ficlets · ID: 54
Reviewer: Elen Kortirion · 2006-09-23 20:15:20
This is all so very true and something so seldom reflected on - the
'only following orders' defence may not have been something that Tolkien
himself was familiar with, after all in his day orders really were not
to be questioned - but that was then. We are entitled to critique
Faramir from our perspective and the reaction you show is real and human
and valid - this man was not and could not have been a milk and water
saint. Yes, he would forgive but that doesn't prevent him from being
bitter, if only in private.
-----------------------------------
Title: Claws · Author: Elena Tiriel · Races: Villains: Fixed-Length
Ficlet · ID: 835
Reviewer: Elen Kortirion · 2006-09-23 20:16:23
Very nicely realised look at what it means to be a dragon. I don't know
if you need to add the notes - the fine detail of the singed claw
disinte0grating beneath him really brought home the concept of dragonish
obsession nicely.
-----------------------------------
Title: Show his quality · Author: Tanaqui · Races: Men: Steward's Sons
Fixed-Length Ficlets · ID: 875
Reviewer: Elen Kortirion · 2006-09-23 20:30:48
What a lovely evocation of Faramir's wisdom and understanding, the
epitome of 'good people skills' as they say today, and eloquent proof of
why his men loved and followed him
-----------------------------------
Title: Inheritance · Author: Acacea · Races: Men: Steward's Sons
Fixed-Length Ficlets · ID: 524
Reviewer: Elen Kortirion · 2006-09-23 20:33:43
Very nice and such an economic character sketch that is still so telling
of what makes Faramir his father's son but his own man.
-----------------------------------
Title: History Becomes Legend · Author: annmarwalk · Races: Men:
Steward's Sons Fixed-Length Ficlets · ID: 737
Reviewer: Elen Kortirion · 2006-09-23 20:39:50
One can see the logic and the very 'rightness' of this idea, that in a
culture based on the Anglo-Saxons, that the emphasis would be on the
aural tradition of heroes being commemorated in stories and songs. And
to hear his brother's name coupled with the valour of the Rohirrim, I am
sure, would have delighted Faramir.
-----------------------------------
Title: A bit of garden · Author: Tanaqui · Races: Hobbits: General
Fixed-Length Ficlet · ID: 901
Reviewer: Elen Kortirion · 2006-09-23 20:46:01
Wonderfully true! If you are a gardener, you can not resist doing the
odd bit of dead-heading when you see something that needs it, and I love
the notion that Elrond too has a gardener's heart.
-----------------------------------
Title: Truly Exposed · Author: Marta · Races: Elves: Other Fixed-Length
Ficlet · ID: 689
Reviewer: Elen Kortirion · 2006-09-23 20:55:21
So much depth and sensuality in this, it simply oozes romance and
simmering passions, without being the least little bit explicit or
vulgar. One is made aware of their love and and physical attraction to
each other, which makes a novel change from the intimations of cold
cerebralarity that is usually evoked when their relationship is written
about.
-----------------------------------
Title: The Household Accounts · Author: Branwyn · Genres: Drama: Gondor
Fixed-Length Ficlet · ID: 50
Reviewer: Elen Kortirion · 2006-09-23 21:01:50
I love that something so simple as checking the nature of her household
can bring forward such memories for Eowyn. The lines about her not
caring to use the cloth woven for a deadman are particularly telling.
Overall the concept is starightforward but in its simplicity it is
amazingly original - I have certainly never seen an evocation done on
this subject and in this way before.
-----------------------------------
Title: It's the Thought · Author: annmarwalk · Races: Men: Fixed-Length
Ficlets With Children · ID: 71
Reviewer: Elen Kortirion · 2006-09-23 21:05:26
This is such a charming and understanding characterization of Theodred.
He realises he has to do something to encourage the young orphans that
this is a new home that will love and welcome them - even if he doea
have to be prompted by his nurse's advice - and it is a lovely little
piece of foreshadowing that Eowyn is envious of her brother's sword!
-----------------------------------
Title: Thus Are Legends Born · Author: annmarwalk · Races: Men:
Fixed-Length Ficlets With Children · ID: 732
Reviewer: Elen Kortirion · 2006-09-23 21:12:45
I very much like the observational quality here; this has such a ring of
truth about it that when a child with a good and prolific imagination
finds something they only half understand, they will make their
explanation fit the facts as they see them. It is a charming insight
into Faramir's character that he knows the tales of old so in his mind
this strange creature could be a small part of them - and even if it is
not, the chance to create a story that might become lore is innate
within him.
-----------------------------------
Title: The Fading of a Star · Author: Minuialeth · Genres: Drama:
General Fixed-Length Ficlet · ID: 219
Reviewer: Elen Kortirion · 2006-09-23 21:19:29
A very delicate and poetic imagining of what may have been said to Arwen
before her departure. One forgets that there would be many others
besides her father and brothers who would be regretfull of her leaving
them - in her case leaving forever.
-----------------------------------
Title: First Night · Author: Pearl Took · Races: Hobbits: War of the
Ring · ID: 400
Reviewer: pippinfan88 · 2006-09-23 21:21:18
Pippin spends his first night in Minas Tirith, and oh, I felt his
lonesome little heart aching for a familiar face. How he wanted his
Merry! He missed him terribly, and could barely think about their
separation. And his thoughts for Frodo and Sam were so sad. I found
myself thinking about Pippin's stay in Rivendell, when he wondered how
anyone could be so depressed in such a wonderful place. Now he is
feeling the opposite in Minas Tirith, and it is so sad to watch the
little guy be depressed about his circumstances and surroundings. Cold
stone does not do well for a young hobbit who loves his family, green
grass, and lavender.

Pearl Took is magnificent in depicting her character's melancholy, his
heartache and misery. I was immediately immersed in her world of
Peregrin Took. That is her gift; to get inside the mind of her
characters. And she does it very well! All in all, a very beautiful and
touching story!
-----------------------------------
Title: Gaiety in Gondor · Author: Raksha the Demon · Genres: Humor:
Fixed-Length Ficlet · ID: 563
Reviewer: Elen Kortirion · 2006-09-23 21:25:00
Wonderfully mischevious - it certainly brought a smile to my face!
-----------------------------------
Title: That Which Cannot Be Put Into Words · Author: Pearl Took · Times:
The Great Years: Vignette · ID: 230
Reviewer: pippinfan88 · 2006-09-23 21:30:05
A very, very beautiful story of Pippin in Lothlorien, walking the
pathways alone...but we soon learn that he is not alone. Someone is
watching over him. It is sweet faerie that married a Took so long ago
that the good Professor vaguely touches on in his prologue. Music is the
universal language--even here in Middle-earth. It goes beyond all
boundaries of language, including Elvish and Westron. Even Galadriel
makes a small appearance in this lovely tale, but the author's original
character, Cullassisul, and her little Tookling--child of my child,
which is Pippin, steals the scene hands down. Here, the author is
telling a delightful story in which the characters really are reluctant
to speak to one another, however, finally do so through song, yet Pearl
unwittingly is the channel through which we can see and read the wonder
of their hearts. Again, this is a very beautiful story.
-----------------------------------
Title: Just a Little Shove · Author: Inglor · Genres: Humor:
Fixed-Length Ficlet · ID: 798
Reviewer: Elen Kortirion · 2006-09-23 21:32:26
This makes me grin, particularly the last line - there is a wonderful
and pragmatic logic there! While I have read other considerations,
mainly from Elrond's point of view, and his angst at not being able to
act at 'that' moment, this is the first time I have seen this reasoning
- it's so very true, not too honourable maybe... but true! *g*
-----------------------------------
Title: The Will · Author: LydiaB · Times: Fourth Age and Beyond:
Fixed-Length Ficlet · ID: 770
Reviewer: Elen Kortirion · 2006-09-23 21:42:51
I like Fourth Age stories that equate Middle-earth with our world, and I
love the intimations that this gives of 'what if it were all true?' In
such a limited space you sew the seeds of so much speculation, this is a
simple and expressive delight.
-----------------------------------
Title: Seeing Stars · Author: Budgielover · Races: Hobbits: Children ·
ID: 399
Reviewer: pippinfan88 · 2006-09-23 21:44:10
A wonderfully sweet story about how Pippin can wrap two beaudacious
lasses around his finger at the Green Dragon at the tender age of
eleven. Merry is green with envy, being nineteen years old, and Frodo
really wants nothing to do with the tavern--trying to keep a safe
distance from any lass at the moment. he even entertains the idea of
running to Buckland, but Merry explains why that is a bad idea. As we
know, hobbits do love their food, so eventually, Frodo's appetite--and
Merry's conniving--wins out--with very comical results! In the end,
everyone is happy, though--and with a flavourful recipe to boot! Wjere
else can a reader find fluff, comic relief, and a delicious recipe all
in one smack? I absolutely enjoyed this story. The author, as usual,
paints a lovely portrait of the relaionships between the main
characters, and makes the reader feel quite at home while "sitting" at
the Green Dragon watching everything unfold. I thought it was an utter
delight to read, from beginning to end.
-----------------------------------
Title: Drift · Author: Ribby · Times: The Great Years: Gondor
Fixed-Length Ficlets · ID: 203
Reviewer: Elen Kortirion · 2006-09-23 21:47:54
I liked this very much for its sheer originality - so many viewpoints
have been written about this moment, but this is the one and only one I
have ever read that cmes from this particular perspective!
-----------------------------------
Title: Midwinter Rites · Author: Tanaqui · Races: Men: Aragorn
Fixed-Length Ficlets · ID: 868
Reviewer: Elen Kortirion · 2006-09-23 21:56:50
I like the passage of time recorded in his memories, and the thought
that although his circumstances changed so much over the long years, he
was still able to experience joy in the midwinter rites that are common
to all.
-----------------------------------
Title: The Beauty of Memory · Author: pipkinsweetgrass · Races:
Cross-Cultural · ID: 652
Reviewer: pippinfan88 · 2006-09-23 22:02:17
A beautiful story surrounding the aftermath of the Battle of the Black
Gate. It tells of how Faramir is coping with the sad news of his
brother's death, now that he has the luxury to think on such things, or
to properly grieve. The new King summons his youngest Soldier to help
his new Steward in coping with his sorrows, to remember his brother, the
mighty soldier, Boromir. Faramir sees his brother again in the bearing
and the manner of this young halfling. He sees his brother smiling
again, the mirth he so enjoyed when times allowed it. Faramir once again
saw the courage, the loyalty Boromir unknowingly bequeathed to the
hobbits he so dearly loved and gave his life to protect. Indeed--the
beauty of memory, and a very lovely story!
-----------------------------------
Title: Gondor Needs No King · Author: Ribby · Times: The Great Years:
Gondor Fixed-Length Ficlets · ID: 207
Reviewer: Elen Kortirion · 2006-09-23 22:02:45
Oh this is so wonderfully creepy and filled with delicious what might
have beens! One can visualize it all so clearly when you imagine the
actor's faces from the movie seeded into this situation.
-----------------------------------
Title: Safe and Sound · Author: Anso the Hobbit · Races: Hobbits:
Hurt/Comfort · ID: 664
Reviewer: pippinfan88 · 2006-09-23 22:06:29
This is a beautiful story where Gimli, Legolas, and Eowyn share their
thoughts on the young hobbit in their company, who is asleep, safe and
sound. Much of it surrounds a very homesick Merry, his nightmares, and
the author even touches upon that the Dwarf is missing home just a
little bit. I rather liked that--I can't say that I've read a story that
depicted Gimli as missing his kin. A very delightful tale and I
absolutely enjoyed reading it!
-----------------------------------
Title: Alas, for the dying of the trees · Author: Gandalfs apprentice ·
Races: Cross-Cultural: Fixed-Length Ficlet · ID: 788
Reviewer: Elen Kortirion · 2006-09-23 22:13:22
This made me giggle - it is such a lovely and well observed reflection
of growing old and also such an 'in character' response to the trials
and tribulations associated with this process; laid out here with
splendid economy - I can see it all!
-----------------------------------

Oops, I sent this accidentally to the wrong list - sorry!

Posted by: "aure_enteluva" melayton@gmail.com aure_enteluva

>Also, Meckinock's WIP piece "A Matter of Honor" is now completed.
> Congratulations! So I have moved it from the "Incomplete" subcategory
> to the "General" subcategory of the "Cross-Cultural" main category.

Nilmandra's "History Lessons: The Third Age" is now complete also. I know that
it had been accidentally in a "complete" category when it was still a WiP - so
now you will have to move it back again *g*.

>Oh, and one last thing: someone asked when voting ends. The last day
> of voting is November 20. That means you have until 11:59 on November
> 20, as the time is displayed by the site at the bottom of each page.
> For reference right now the site time is 2006-10-15 02:55:43 GMT.

This is good to know - thanks for the reminder.

Imhiriel

Hi Imhiriel,

> Oops, I sent this accidentally to the wrong list - sorry!
>

I bet they were surprised!

> >Also, Meckinock's WIP piece "A Matter of Honor" is now completed.
> > Congratulations! So I have moved it from the "Incomplete"
> subcategory
> >to the "General" subcategory of the "Cross-Cultural" main category.
>
> Nilmandra's "History Lessons: The Third Age" is now complete
> also. I know that it had been accidentally in a "complete"
> category when it was still a WiP - so now you will have to
> move it back again *g*.
>

*snicker* Yes, that one has moved around a fair amount. The good thing is we
know there's a sub-category with completed stories where it will fit,
because it was already in one at one point.

I've emailed her because I need word from her before I move it. But thanks
for the heads-up: I wouldn't have known to ask her if you hadn't said
anything. When she gets back to me I'll move the story to a subcat with
completed story.

Marta

Title: Elfwine · Author: annmarwalk · Genres: Humor: Fixed-Length Ficlet
· ID: 70
Reviewer: Elen Kortirion · 2006-09-23 22:21:01
You catch the man's exhuberence and love of life so beautifully here.
This is no time for protocol - he treats the event as he does every
other part of his life - as something to be grasped with both hands and
experienced to the full!
-----------------------------------
Title: Treasures And Momentos · Author: Marigold · Genres: Drama:
Featuring Pippin or Merry · ID: 220
Reviewer: pippinfan88 · 2006-09-23 22:27:55
This is one lovely story that tugs at my heartstrings every time I read
it. This is my favourite story that portrays the death of Merry and
Pippin, and the deeply felt absence of the beloved pair. Perfectly
written, and perfectly told from beginning to end, I felt a sense of
great loss as I read it; of missing my most beloved hobbits. And also in
true hobbit fashion, there is a good measure of good and simple humour
included with the items Merry and Pippin bequeaths to those whom they
cherished from the remaining Fellowship. People live and they die; that
is life. If a reader finds it difficult to get past Pippin and Merry's
death, which the author does not depict in detail, then it is sad to be
missing out on a most excellent story. In one of the author's Merry
Yules installments, Merry bestows Pippin with a very special gift that
makes its way into this tale, and I thought it was touchinig--as
magnificent as her Merry and Pippin are--and as is the author herself. A
beautiful story, indeed!
-----------------------------------
Title: Childhood Dreams · Author: Acacea · Genres: Drama: Gondor
Fixed-Length Ficlet · ID: 523
Reviewer: Elen Kortirion · 2006-09-23 22:31:36
I like this very much because it intimates so much about the unspoken
relationship between the brothers, and because the scene is so adroitly
visualized. You see very little, but it shows you so much.- of their
character and what they see in each other and within themselves.
-----------------------------------
Title: Strike While the Iron is Hot · Author: grey_wonderer · Genres:
Humor: The Shire · ID: 234
Reviewer: pippinfan88 · 2006-09-23 22:36:37
Full of pranks and endless fun and laughter for the reader--and of
course, Merry the instigator, who began it all. With far too much idle
time on their hands for any young hobbit, Merry and Pippin are the prank
contenders and Fredegar Bolger is the pickle in the sandwich, so to
speak. Fredegar Bolger goes to great lengths to spy on and stay out of
the way of his friends, stealthily acting as a double agent
independently to both Pippin and Merry, however, he ends up with his own
reward regardless. Poor Freddie is left scratching his head wondering
how he got the bitter end of the stick, but he soon learns a valuable
lesson in dealing with the likes of Merry and Pippin. Like always, the
author is magnificent in telling her story, writing it out, and infusing
comic relief that will send any reader into a fit of laughter. I
completely enjoyed this story, and laughed my backside off.
-----------------------------------
Title: A Little Thing · Author: Acacea · Times: Early Third Age:
Fixed-Length Ficlet · ID: 75
Reviewer: Elen Kortirion · 2006-09-23 22:41:35
This is deliciously spooky, and very original. You create with admirable
economy a whole self-contained microcosm that these events unfold in. I
particularly liked the reference to the un-aging fern, that is a very
deft touch within the drabble.
-----------------------------------
Title: In the Houses of Healing · Author: Elen Kortirion · Races: Men ·
ID: 877
Reviewer: Raksha the Demon · 2006-09-24 01:15:21
Intriguing Houses of Healing AU, the only one I've seen where Eowyn
apparently doesn't exist. The narrator is a woman of Numenorean descent
who was nurse and guardian to Denethor's sons, and who also has ties to
Aragorn's past. She and another OFC, an Elf who seems to be Faramir's
"Significant Other", frantically try to heal a badly injured (worse even
than in the book ROTK) Faramir when the new Steward is finally brought
to the Houses.

There are glimpses here of a rich history in this AU. I would like to
see more of Faramir's relationship with the mysterious Elf-Ranger.

Well-detailed description of the ladies' attempts to save unconscious,
injured and somewhat burned Faramir.

-----------------------------------
Title: Hearth and Home · Author: Molly Littlefoot · Races: Hobbits · ID: 730
Reviewer: Marta · 2006-09-24 04:34:32
This is a neat little story, so full of the little details that make up
day-to-day life. One thing that jumped out to me were the names. Samish,
Vistula, even Beau -- they're not the normal hobbity names that seem so
modern, but seem very other without being *un*hobbity. The ending as
well seemed very Tolkieny. This is a good read for anyone who likes
original characters and gapfillers that give an "everyman" insight into
the Ring War events.
-----------------------------------
Title: Gandalf's No Good, Rotten, Really Bad Day · Author: Gandalfs
apprentice · Genres: Humor: Parody · ID: 146
Reviewer: Rhapsody · 2006-09-24 08:11:03
Oh my goodness. This is a very strongly written short story; the opening
paragraph alone makes you really continue to read. What on earth could
Gandalf possibly have done to have Manwë act this scorned. From
[cringing wizard, the coldly wrathful elf-lord, and his bereft daughter]
to several theories what might have gone wrong with one note, the author
weaves a strongly written parody with a good build up. Just the thought
of Elrond (although technically he isn't an elf-lord) standing there
with Arwen wanting justice to be done is at the same time touching and
hilarious. And the tone is set for the story, point for point Manwë
cracks every weakness in Gandalf's story, but the last two lines about
Saruman in power makes you wonder if Middle Earth is better off now. It
is at least good enough for Manwë. Very entertaining.
-----------------------------------
Title: Drift · Author: Ribby · Times: The Great Years: Gondor
Fixed-Length Ficlets · ID: 203
Reviewer: Raksha the Demon · 2006-09-24 09:26:42
Unusual and elegant drabble, one of the most original treatments of the
journey of Boromir's funeral boat. Smoothly and excellently written,
with a nice tie-in to THE TWO TOWERS.
-----------------------------------
Title: The Will · Author: LydiaB · Times: Fourth Age and Beyond:
Fixed-Length Ficlet · ID: 770
Reviewer: Raksha the Demon · 2006-09-24 09:30:50
Great little drabble about what seems to be the ultimate fate of the Red
Book of Westmarch. Original, nicely written; a fascinating twist of fate
concerning a certain young man about to go to war.
-----------------------------------
Title: The Path · Author: AngieT · Races: Hobbits: Hurt/Comfort · ID: 638
Reviewer: Raksha the Demon · 2006-09-24 09:38:26
Oh, this is a good one! Merry stumbles upon a hobbit-hole, and a party,
with a beautiful young hobbit girl celebrating a birthday, but something
is definitely odd...

The writer builds up the sense of strangeness very lightly, with just a
few hints, and then hits the reader with unexpected horror. And the end
wraps up the mystery in an unsentimental but romantic and sad fashion.

Quite well written, especially the hobbit personalities.
-----------------------------------
Title: A Change In The Weather · Author: Marigold · Races: Hobbits:
Fixed-Length Ficlet series · ID: 692
Reviewer: Rhapsody · 2006-09-24 15:22:51
Four seasons in one story, four hobbits starring in their own drabble
and yet they feel so complete together. The seasons assigned to them
feel natural and well chosen; it fits them all and gives you a feeling
of contentment, especially the one assigned to Sam with his happy
feeling to see things grow after he planted them. But just as hobbity as
they all start out, the spotlight changes cleverly and shows us the dire
consequences of their journey that changed their lives so drastically.
Memories that will always remain with them as their favourite season is
there again. Especially Pippins association with rain and feeling
utterly alone touches me deeply. How lonely must he have felt to be
separated from the hobbits when Gandalf took him to the White City? This
is a beautiful ficlet series, which left a deep impression on me: what a
gem Marigold!
-----------------------------------
Title: Lonely Night · Author: NeumeIndil · Genres: Drama: Remembering ·
ID: 295
Reviewer: Rhapsody · 2006-09-24 15:43:25
When I saw the warning adult subject matter I could not suspect what
would follow next. The choice Scarlet faces and Morwen is remembered by
evoked memories in which I hope not everyone will ever have to face. In
this story it seems to clear that drinking the tea in order to safeguard
your own future or that of a child is the best solution possible, when
you approach it rationally that is. But what is the most heart wrenching
layer of this story are the emotional consequences in a profession this
hard. Scarlet who might have a good future ahead of her, with our
without her love (who might be able to provide for them elsewhere):
Morwen who looks back on a harsh life with three children only as a
memory, a what if and seemingly a life lost. And with this you look at
the heart of the story, life in a brothel is hard for all and as you
grow older, it is extra baggage you have to carry all alone. Morwens
regret and pain is so poignant. Besides the subject of this short story,
I admire the characterisation of two original characters: the story
stands strongly on its own without any mention of a canon character
which is most often a hard thing to do within fan fiction. This is a gem
of a short story, with layer after layer you discover  even after
re-reading it several times  with a good use of style and smoothly
written prose. Simply stunning Neume!
-----------------------------------
Title: How the Eorlings Ride · Author: NeumeIndil · Genres: Humor · ID: 213
Reviewer: Rhapsody · 2006-09-24 16:34:09
Go Merry! Go Merry! What a fantastic story! At first I thought, oh poor
Merry, but this finely written gapfiller shows us what Merry did the
first night Gandalf left with Pippin. Delightful and macho dialogue of
the Rohirrim, a poor lonely Merry looming over his pint, but soon all
the tables will be turned in the benefit of this Halfling. And how! With
rich narrative, the writer paints a great portrait what is going on in
the brothel/tavern. What more do you need when you read this:

[They passed Éomer and a stunned-looking blonde on the way and Merry
nodded politely, then strutted through Morwens door like a barnyard
cock and shut it with a thump.]

Excellent, I can, without any effort, picture how Merry looked like. And
this story is full of wonderful writing like this. One thing I do know
for sure is: do not trust Eothain to know the way when he had a pint
maybe too many. You never know where you might end up.

Gamling knows his (wo)men and shows a very practical skill: simply
observing what is going on. And I admit, I had to chuckle when I read:
[Wait, Morwen, you paid him?] Just this sentence alone! The
realisation what just happened comes at a perfect time, for both the
reader and the characters in the story. I bet the looks on our faces
matched.

This is a great short story: effective, good use of style techniques
that makes it a very charming and enjoyable read. On top of that great
characterisations which felt Tolkienlike to me. An incredibly well
balanced story Neumeindil, I thoroughly loved reading this one!
-----------------------------------
Title: Fire and Flowering · Author: Raksha the Demon · Genres: Romance:
Incomplete · ID: 58
Reviewer: Marta · 2006-09-25 01:36:28
Some of these ficlets are very hot -- there's really no other way to put
it. We range from tentative soon-to-be-weds to young lovers to seasoned
parents, and each of these slices of life are very erotic in their own
way. And doing that with any kind of a constraint on the word count is
very difficult.

But there's so much more than that in these pieces. These are charming
character studies of both Faramir and Eowyn, and we get glimpses of what
they fear and hope for. The way they grow closer together and more
comfortable in their new roles is in its way a microcosm for the Fourth Age.
-----------------------------------
Title: The Groomsman · Author: Elen Kortirion · Races: Dwarves:
Fixed-Length Ficlet · ID: 44
Reviewer: Marta · 2006-09-25 01:40:41
Aww, this was certainly sad, and unexpected. I thought it was Aragorn
getting ready for his coronation or something. It's really nice to see
Gimli preparing Boromir this way, and the comparison to a bridegroom
just about broke my heart. So much lost potential there.
-----------------------------------
Title: In The Pits Of Utumno · Author: Jay of Lasgalen · Races: Elves ·
ID: 164
Reviewer: Marta · 2006-09-25 02:34:08
How cute! I suppose I should have seen that something was coming, but I
was blindsided. Nice job making the staging work for both scenes.
-----------------------------------
Title: Pride Goeth... · Author: Marigold · Races: Cross-Cultural: With
Hobbits · ID: 936
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2006-09-25 03:32:52
I love the way the author depicts Boromir in this. He's already become
fond of the hobbits, but he doesn't even begin to understand them. His
affection and protectiveness is tinged with condescension, and his pride
is clearly in the forefront. And yet, when he's confronted with his own
failure here, he is honest and fair enough to admit his shortcomings.
And he begins to realize that he's underestimated the hobbits. A good
"getting acquainted" Fellowship fic.

-----------------------------------
Title: Of Flustering and Blustering · Author: Rhapsody · Races:
Cross-Cultural: With Hobbits · ID: 811
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2006-09-25 12:42:01
This is a sweet little fluffy tale of a visit to Bilbo from Gandalf and
two Dwarves a few years after the Adventure--or is it? There are a few
sinister undertones, that hint of trouble to come, and a bit of angst as
well.
-----------------------------------
Title: A Spring Day At Cormallen · Author: Marigold · Races:
Cross-Cultural: With Hobbits · ID: 746
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2006-09-25 12:45:43
I love this little vignette for any number of reasons: it's from
Aragorn's POV, it's filled with love and hope, and most of all, it's
Pippin with a kite--something that just seems *right*!
-----------------------------------
Title: Horse Thief · Author: Gandalfs apprentice · Races: Cross-Cultural
· ID: 365
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2006-09-25 12:50:23
Young Estel takes off after a quarrel with one of his foster
brothers--and on a steed that is not his. A rather cute little interlude.
-----------------------------------
Title: A Memorial in Four Parts · Author: Illwynd · Races:
Cross-Cultural · ID: 702
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2006-09-25 12:55:53
Absolutely beautiful. Each little vignette is perfectly appropriate to
the person who is remembering. Very poignant and insightful.
-----------------------------------
Title: Unmeant Bitterness · Author: Aramel · Times: The Great Years:
Gondor · ID: 171
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2006-09-25 17:13:48
This is remarkable. It really is, to see such a perfectly canonical
recounting of events, from a wholly different perspective than
conventional interpretation conveys. It is in JRRT's own style, and most
of the dialogue in his own words. Yet, by showing us the interior
monologue of Denethor, the auther places a new emphasis on words, one I
had never before considered. While it won't make me give up my own
interpretation, it certainly gave food for thought. I am extremely
impressed with this, and hope to perhaps see more of this author's work,
as she is unfamiliar to me.
-----------------------------------
Title: Evenstar · Author: Mar'isu · Times: The Great Years · ID: 856
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2006-09-25 17:19:27
A beautiful summation of Arwen's thoughts at that feast before the
council. I thought it very poetical and lovely, though I did not really
agree with the characterization of Elrond's attitude towards Aragorn. I
liked the use of the Elven phrase at the end of the peice.
-----------------------------------
Title: Athelas · Author: Waltraute · Times: The Great Years: Gondor ·
ID: 243
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2006-09-25 17:26:40
I really am very fond of Bergil. This little story featuring his
harrowing search through the devestated City to find the athelas needed
for Faramir is wonderfully atmospheric, and the old man, the OC whom
Bergil remembers, who might have the kingsfoil is well-drawn. Poor
child, such a horrific experience! Very well done.
-----------------------------------

Title: All Save One · Author: LadyDeb1970 · Times: The Great Years:
Gondor · ID: 691
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2006-09-25 17:32:08

Don't we all wish Boromir could have been reunited with his companions?
Even for just a short while? A lovely little vignette that makes it
possible, for Boromir to reassure those he had travelled with that all
was well.
-----------------------------------
Title: The Worst of All Evils · Author: Marta · Times: The Great Years:
Vignette · ID: 697
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2006-09-25 17:42:41
Yes, I too have thought that Eowyn must have had an "understanding" with
the men of the eored--that they knew, but refused to acknowledge her
identity, as they knew, but preferred to deny, Merry's presence. And I
can see how Elfhelm would definitely have trepidations about Eomer's
reaction to that. A scene that very easily could have happened, and
handled very deftly.
-----------------------------------
Title: Seam of Stone · Author: hossgal · Times: The Great Years · ID: 129
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2006-09-25 17:54:54
Very atmospheric prose. It took me a while to realize what Gimli was
doing and why.
-----------------------------------
Title: Beleg and Túrin · Author: Raihon · Genres: Romance · ID: 755
Reviewer: Rhapsody · 2006-09-25 18:25:09
I can't help to feel that the ending should be more expanded upon to
find a better balance in the story. I think I checked a couple of times
if that was really it. I like the characterisation of Turin in this
piece: his character develops as the story progresses.
-----------------------------------
Title: The Roots of the Ivy · Author: Aranel Took · Genres: Alternate
Universe: Post-Grey Havens · ID: 118
Reviewer: obsidianj · 2006-09-26 00:16:40
This is a rather wild AU. If the reader can get past the premise, they
will be drawn into a rich story. Ivy the girl between the worlds--for
the hobbits too tall for men to small-- has to overcome lots of very
believable obstacles until she can find happiness. I especially like the
description of her teenage/tween years, where she doesn't fit in
anywhere because of her mixed heritage. Poor Merry has to deal with a
daughter who is only 13, but shows all signs of being a tween. I like it
that Ivy shows characteristics of both her parents, although that makes
it even harder on the parent who is supervising her at the moment.
Intertwined with Ivy's story is the story of Merry and Pippin and how
they grow up and into their roles as Master of Buckland and Thain.
Pippin's story is heartbreaking, but in the end everything turns out for
the best.
-----------------------------------
Title: By The Light of Earendil's Star · Author: Branwyn · Genres:
Adventure · ID: 83
Reviewer: obsidianj · 2006-09-26 00:17:32
This is a great, gripping tale of adventure in the woods of Ithilien.
After Boromir learns that Faramir is captured by orcs, he immediately
mounts a rescue mission without asking for permission first. I love
Boromir's impulsive decision to come to Faramir's rescue, but he is not
so reckless that he doesn't come up with a plan that has some hope of
success, although his second in command is a big help. I think the
characterization of the brothers is spot on. The original characters
Captain Haldan, cousin Eldahil, Ranger Hirluin all have their distinct
voices and fit seemlessly into the story. Even the orcs are well
characterized. Denethor's desperate search for his sons and how he
already relys on the Palantir is chilling to read, especially that he,
this early, already doesn't get the whole truth. That should have been a
warning to him.

Thanks for a great read.
-----------------------------------
Title: Inheritances · Author: Marta · Genres: Drama: The Steward's
Family · ID: 651
Reviewer: obsidianj · 2006-09-26 00:18:15
These are interesting musings of Thorongil while he waits to greet young
Boromir, the heir to the Steward. I think it is a bit far fetched to
come to conclusions about the character of a child at that young age
from the way it grips a toy, but I have seen this often enough in adults
when watching a child. I like the comparison of Finduilas' sacrifice to
Gilraen's sacrifice, although Thorongil has no idea what fate holds in
store for Finduilas.
-----------------------------------
Title: In the Houses of Healing · Author: Elen Kortirion · Races: Men ·
ID: 877
Reviewer: obsidianj · 2006-09-26 00:18:48
An interesting AU tale. I like the glimpses into the life of traders and
their relationship with the rangers. The narrator seems to have a very
interesting past. This story is a part of a series. Since I haven't read
any of the other stories, I felt a bit confused in the beginning. I had
a bit trouble to figure out which female was speaking. It became clearer
in the later chapters.
-----------------------------------
Title: First Impressions · Author: Bodkin · Races: Men: Featuring
Aragorn · ID: 806
Reviewer: obsidianj · 2006-09-26 00:19:21
Estel's first impression of his new 'home' is not the best and Bodkin
does her best to describe the surroundings as unappealing as possible
especially compared to Rivendell. I like Halbarad's outlook at the same
surroundings. I think he points Aragorn to something very important.
Home is not so much where you are, but the people around you.
-----------------------------------
Title: Brothers at Heart · Author: Radbooks · Races: Men: Incomplete ·
ID: 451
Reviewer: obsidianj · 2006-09-26 00:20:45
In this version of the scenario Aragorn meets the Dunedain for the first
time, he is accepted as the new leader without any open opposition. It
is his birthright, and they won't deny it. Aragorn acknowledges that he
has much to learn, and his elders are willing to support and teach him
all that he needs to know.

Aside from a very well characterized Aragorn, the story has a huge,
lively cast of original characters from children to grandparents, which
all come to life. I like it that the Dunedain accept Aragorn, but there
are still some around who resent the old decision to send Aragorn and
Gilraen away, not least of all his grandmother. The crusty, old lady has
her own way of showing that this new grandson might have turned out well
even if he was raised by elves.

Another thing I like is that Aragorn's obstacles on the way to be the
leader we come to know in the books, stem partly from his youth and
inexperience but also from his ignorance of the ways of the Dunedain.
You can't have someone grow up in a different culture and then expect
him to seemlessly blend in.

I'm eagerly waiting to see where this will go in the end.
-----------------------------------
Title: Psychodiagnostic Evaluation - Subject: The Lady of Rohan ·
Author: Anoriath · Genres: Humor: Parody · ID: 753
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2006-09-26 02:45:55
Oh, that was funny! I loved the jargon--it was absolutely perfect!
Yeah--that's the reaction you'd get, nowadays!
-----------------------------------
Title: Of Squirrels and Stolen Pies · Author: grey_wonderer · Genres:
Humor: Children · ID: 305
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2006-09-26 03:02:12
When it comes to Pippish, no one can do it quite so well as GW! Pippin
is superb, as he innocently manages to confuse the heck out of everyone
except Merry--who also knows just when to intervene. And he knows the
value of a cherry pie, as well!
-----------------------------------
Title: Revenge is a dish best served cold · Author: Lialathuveril ·
Genres: Humor · ID: 297
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2006-09-26 03:05:02
Ah, yes! The humor in seeing someone having to eat something totally
disgusting! Very funny!
-----------------------------------
Title: You Never Know · Author: MysteriousWays · Genres: Humor: The
Shire · ID: 701
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2006-09-26 03:13:14
Poor Frodo! It's just one of those days--or is it? Why is everybody but
him "nekkid"? Hilarious!
-----------------------------------
Title: Bedtime Story · Author: Gandalfs apprentice · Genres: Humor:
Children · ID: 355
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2006-09-26 03:18:38
A little child's imagination can be a dangerous thing! As Aragorn
realizes, when his son begins playacting his bedtime stories!
-----------------------------------
Title: The Prince and the Pea · Author: Karri · Genres: Humor: Children
· ID: 158
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2006-09-26 03:26:08
Dear little Estel stars in a Middle-earth version of the Princess and
the Pea--only it's a prince and it's Legolas, and it's Glorfindel who
instigates the whole thing. Poor kid--I wonder when or if he finally
figured out the joke was on him!
-----------------------------------
Title: 17 Cunning Corsairs · Author: stefaniab · Genres: Humor:
Fixed-Length Ficlet · ID: 244
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2006-09-26 03:28:47
I got a chuckle out of this one--little Lothiriel fancies a pirate's
life, does she? Very cute!
-----------------------------------
Title: A Precious Gift · Author: Isil Elensar · Genres: Drama: First Age
Elves · ID: 250
Reviewer: Rhapsody · 2006-09-26 10:48:24
Ill try not to sound to prejudiced or gushy since Isil wrote this for
me. But oh, I can relate to Indis, being so tired after hours of labour.
The private moment between Indis and Fingolfin is perfectly written, the
sense of familiarity, but just checking if all was in order with a
child, which has been such a part of you for a long time. As a mom, you
know the child is all right, but still you want to make sure. Ah and
Finwe, granted a new life with another spouse because he longed for more
children, which the author touches upon gently, is well handled and
gives you a bitter sweet, but also a fuzzy feeling of happiness. The
story feels as a peek around the corner, feeling a witness to an
important milestone which will be one of the seeds to the changes to
come. A short work written with love and gifted to someone else, which
gives the title most certainly a double meaning.
-----------------------------------
Title: Blood Brothers · Author: Elana · Races: Villains: Fixed-Length
Ficlet · ID: 149
Reviewer: Rhapsody · 2006-09-26 11:08:10
I was drawn to this ficlet by the summary and wow, what an unusual
insight in a 'villians' mind. Elena portrays the final moments of a
Haradrim soldier who thinks he fights for what is right, together with
his mumak who has been with him all his life. This drabble simply shows
that in a war there are no winners, only victims. Very strongly drabbled!
-----------------------------------
Title: Fire · Author: Aramel · Genres: Drama: Fixed-Length Ficlet Series
· ID: 172
Reviewer: Rhapsody · 2006-09-26 12:12:24
Aramel portrays the several meanings of fire and how this element
fuelled the Fëanorians and their followers in this incredibly well
written series. From the desire of Celegorm, the driving force of
Maedhros, goal, the wrath, and injustice done to the exiles taken fruit
from Melkor's seeds of burning lies, the spirit of fire embodied by
Fëanor and oh so stunning, to the creation of Narya. They all are
connected, but are also small gems. A part that was particularly evoking
was this:

[The wild swan has flown off with his heart, so he will comfort himself
with a lesser bird-- and if this glimmering shade of a maiden is a poor
substitute for her fire, still he can dream.]

Simply amazing, this gives us a great insight in Celegorms character
and his motives.
-----------------------------------
Title: Legacy · Author: Nancy Brooke · Races: Hobbits: General
Fixed-Length Ficlet · ID: 299
Reviewer: Rhapsody · 2006-09-26 12:31:08
I simply love the timing and the parallels drawn here between the two
hobbits and Boromir. What is so particularly moving in this work and
what I immediately remembered was Boromirs sacrifice for them at Parth
Galen, securing the future of two future hobbit rulers, by giving up his
own. The way you write Pippin here, a title he inherited (just as
Boromir should have), the peace of the Shire, which only could have, be
guaranteed by the Fellowship.

Boromirs last stand seemed just a pebble cast in the river, and it
seems as if this alternates the course just a little bit: but many years
later those two (and the readers too) remember and honour for his brave
deed and the ultimate sacrifice of Gondors son. This drabble has
beautiful bookverse characterisations and a well timed drabble: it all
fits so incredible nice within the word limit. This is such an evoking
piece Nancy; it simply gives me the goose bumps. Now where are the
tissues? *snif*
-----------------------------------
Title: A Darkened Heart · Author: Beethoven's 7th · Genres: Drama:
General Fixed-Length Ficlet · ID: 774
Reviewer: Rhapsody · 2006-09-26 12:36:00
Oh my goodness, while reading this drabble I can picture Boromir looking
up to the Argonauts. You did a marvellous job at catching that moment,
reminding me how easy it is for the Ring to evoke darkness in one's
heart. What I particularly like about this piece is that you feel the
shift of thoughts in the words, from hope and faith in the King to
darkness that Aragorn will fail and Gondor can take care of her own.
Excellently drabbled: two thumbs up!
-----------------------------------
Title: Summoned · Author: Agape4Gondor · Races: Men: Steward's Sons
Fixed-Length Ficlets · ID: 840
Reviewer: Rhapsody · 2006-09-26 12:54:14
Amazing! I marvel at the manner how the author portrays the love of the
Steward's Sons for the lands of Gondor. Each their own love and they
would give anything to defend it. What is so beautifully written is how
Faramir needs the healing of Ithilien, being scorched as it is after
such a long occupation and the parallel of Denethor's demands on him
(and not making use of his full potential) and his almost death in fire,
stands out in this part:

[I was summoned by my King once before - from the darkness of the Black
Breath and another's breath. He held me in his arms and waited for death
to take us both. But I was ripped from those arms that would take me
through fire into another world  a world free from the horrors that he
thought awaited us. Even now, when darkness falls, I wonder why I was
spared.]

The parallel of Aragorn saving Faramir from death and Denethor wanting
to take him into death is grimly explored here. It feels as if Faramir
is still caught between these two and that he admits that he has
troubles dealing with entering a new age, despite what good it might bring.

The relief of Faramir that Ithilien will be his is very tangible, as a
medicine he needs. Just as the lands need to grow back to what once was,
so does Faramir need the time to heal itself, but that takes time.

When I read the last line, I can only hope that the love and the healing
qualities of the lands will heal his wounds, so that he and his future
bride can enjoy thier new lives soon. This short story has many layers
in well-written prose. Every time I re-read it, there is something new
that appeals to me. A great piece of work!
-----------------------------------
Title: A Bad Day Gone Good · Author: MysteriousWays · Genres: Humor: The
Shire · ID: 229
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2006-09-26 17:33:52
This story has a lot going for it: I love that Nibs is the main
character--he seldom gets much "screen time" in fics. I got a kick out
of the explanations for the Cotton lads' nicknames. And I felt for poor
Nibs with his day going so badly. His encounter with the Dwarf was fun.
A cute story!
-----------------------------------
Title: Merry's Magnificent Yule · Author: Marigold · Genres: Humor: The
Shire · ID: 211
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2006-09-26 17:39:20
Poor Pippin, having to take care of a dreadfully drunk Merry, who's
missing Estella at Yuletime. It's just one thing after another, and
Pippin handles each situation with patient aplomb. Very sweet and funny!
-----------------------------------

Title: Healing the Healer · Author: SlightlyTookish · Times: The Great
Years: The Fellowship · ID: 935
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2006-09-26 17:54:54
This is so cute. I love turnabout stories, where the hobbits take care
of the Big Folk--and this one, where they practically smother Aragorn in
hobbity TLC is just darling. Poor Aragorn, being killed with kindness! LOL!
-----------------------------------
Title: Don't Panic! · Author: Boz4PM · Times: The Great Years · ID: 908
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2006-09-26 18:00:25
For once, the "modern girl falls into Middle-earth" type story is dealt
with realistically. I *loved* this story--Penny is so clueless at first,
and then when she begins to realize when and where she actually is, she
literally goes into hysterics. She's just an ordinary modern person. She
has no special skills, no special abilities. She doesn't even speak the
language--after all, Westron is *not* English. Simply coping with day to
day living in M-e is traumatic for her. There is, of course, a lot of
the "fish out of water" humor, but there is also a good deal of
realistic angst. I highly reccommend this as an excellent read!
-----------------------------------
Title: Whispers of the Dragon · Author: Shirebound · Times: The Great
Years: The Fellowship · ID: 916
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2006-09-26 18:11:45
This is an interesting take on how the Ring tried to ensnare the
Company, and most especially, how it concentrated on Boromir, during the
journey on the Anduin. It is not until the very end that it strays into
AU territory, and then back out, leaving the rest of canon intact. I
liked the comparison of the Ring's temptations to Smaug's wily words
with Bilbo.
-----------------------------------
Title: Memorabilia and Other Useful Things · Author: Illwynd · Times:
The Great Years: The Fellowship · ID: 714
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2006-09-26 18:17:26
It very much seems like the kind of thing Pippin would do--to save
little bits of this and that as souvenirs. Very cute!
-----------------------------------
Title: I Yessë En Mentë · Author: Rous · Genres: Drama: Poetry · ID: 739
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2006-09-26 21:36:26
A very long and evocative poem, describing the chaos and horror of
battle. Wonderfully descriptive.
-----------------------------------
Title: An Elf · Author: laiquendi · Races: Elves: Poetry · ID: 725
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2006-09-26 21:44:08
A very nice series of verses, describing the various roles held by
Legolas. Each is well-done alone, but together they evoke a good picture
of the Elf.
-----------------------------------
Title: Unspeakable · Author: White Gull · Genres: Romance: Poetry · ID: 822
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2006-09-26 21:47:39
If if had not been for the pairing indicated in the story details, I
would never have thought this to be Frodo and Rose. It's an interesting
concept, and beautifully expressed.
-----------------------------------
Title: The Silent Street · Author: Sophinisba Solis · Races: Hobbits:
Merry & Pippin · ID: 65
Reviewer: Nancy Brooke · 2006-09-27 00:12:48
I always admire stories that deal with the Hobbits "post-traumatic
stress." This one was both highly respectful and imaginative.
-----------------------------------
Title: Merry Yules · Author: Marigold · Races: Hobbits: Fixed-Length
Ficlet series · ID: 114
Reviewer: Nancy Brooke · 2006-09-27 00:16:55
These are very sweet, but a bit repetitive all together.
-----------------------------------
Title: King's Man · Author: Gandalfs apprentice · Times: The Great
Years: Vignette · ID: 197
Reviewer: Nancy Brooke · 2006-09-27 00:21:41
This is a wonderful character study, that character being the friendship
between Aragorn and Halbarad. I found it particulalry effective and
moving that you paint Halbarad as Aragorn's first supporter, first to
hail him and urge the others to do so by example, and his first Dunedan
teacher, then partner. Wonderful.
-----------------------------------
Title: The Standard-Bearer · Author: Thevina Finduilas · Races: Men:
Vignette · ID: 716
Reviewer: Nancy Brooke · 2006-09-27 00:25:56
Very interesting that you've taken the less popular path of having
Aragorn the teacher and Halbarad the follower, here. That perspective,
and Halbarad's unwavering faith in Aragorn give this relationship a
freshness, here.
-----------------------------------
Title: Finding the Right Words · Author: Nienor Niniel · Races: Men:
Post-Sauron's Fall · ID: 785
Reviewer: Nancy Brooke · 2006-09-27 00:31:48
This is most tender and insighful. Only Faramir would need the approval
of all that had gone before him, including most sweetly his mother and
brother, before performin his duty. I found it most endearing.
-----------------------------------
Title: The White Tree · Author: Linda Hoyland · Races: Men: Featuring
Aragorn · ID: 94
Reviewer: Nancy Brooke · 2006-09-27 00:39:07
Very clever: to use the uprooting and new planting of the white tree as
a device to explore Faramir's understandable discomfort with the new king.
-----------------------------------
Title: A Humble Gift · Author: GamgeeFest · Genres: Drama: Featuring
Pippin or Merry · ID: 722
Reviewer: Raksha the Demon · 2006-09-27 01:04:02
Touching and effective. I always enjoy Pippin-Faramir interaction and
this tale does not disappoint.

And Faramir's gift is beautifully described and quite appropriate - very
Tolkienish in the idea and its execution.
-----------------------------------
Title: The Dancing Master · Author: Flick · Races: Men: Vignette · ID: 323
Reviewer: Raksha the Demon · 2006-09-27 03:36:22
Lovely vignette. The image of Boromir as seen through Eowyn's memory, as
a golden prince patiently showing the young and awkward tomboy Eowyn how
to dance, [one soldier to another], is quite charming. And Boromir was
right of course about dancing being a useful skill for warriors, as an
aid to flexibility and coordination. Most importantly, Boromir took time
to help a lonely, prickly little girl come out of her shell, much as he
helped his own younger brother.
-----------------------------------
Title: Was It For This? · Author: Alawa · Genres: Drama: Remembering ·
ID: 88
Reviewer: Raksha the Demon · 2006-09-27 03:45:19
Sad, and sensitively written. I loved the bit about Aragorn remembering
only the scent of pipeweed and soap from Arathorn. We know that Elrond
was a good and kindly foster-father to Aragorn, but it was a terribly
cruel fate that robbed Arathorn of a chance to see his little son grow
up and Aragorn of at least more detailed memories.

Good story!
-----------------------------------
Title: On the Fair Hill · Author: Imhiriel · Times: Late Third Age:
Fixed-Length Ficlet · ID: 946
Reviewer: dkpalaska · 2006-09-27 06:36:06
I love how beautifully descriptive this piece is. I feel as though I am
right there in the Golden Wood, and see each part of the scene vividly
in my mind. As if I could reach out and have one of the mallorn leaves
fall into my hand, or tilt my head back and watch the leaves shifting on
the swaying branches, or stoop down to run my fingers over the flowers
in the grass. The drabble is lush and full and completely unhurried,
even though there is a lot of detail contained in the piece. The final
line is perfect, concisely tying all of it to one specific place and
time within Lorien. The momentousness of the event is enhanced by having
such a carefully prepared setting for it to take place in.

I have always disliked the ambivalent way that Tolkien ended the story
of Aragorn and Arwen in the appendices, but I love the beginning and
middle portions - the powerful love that they shared, Arwen giving up
all her family and Elven immortality to share a mortal life and
(hopefully) the Secondborn's version of immortality afterwards. I
personally prefer to think that Arwen ended her life with the same hope
that infused the beginning of their bond, a hope for both themselves and
Middle-earth that deserves the beauty of Cerin Amroth as Imhiriel so
marvelously describes it. This is how I will imagine their
troth-plighting whenever I read about it in the future.
-----------------------------------
Title: The Parting Gift · Author: Imhiriel · Times: First Age and Prior:
Fixed-Length Ficlet · ID: 948
Reviewer: dkpalaska · 2006-09-27 06:47:36
I'm always amazed that such a seemingly innocuous detail, plucked from
the books, is given particular poignancy and feeling in such a short
format. I had never before paid attention to the fact that Elrond
carried a harp with him to the Grey Havens, and yet that obscure fact
became a centerpiece of this drabble and received a believable and
touching explanation.

I have long loved the part of the Silmarillion where somehow, despite
all that happened, Elrond and Elros came to love Maglor. I always felt
that his rescuing Earendil and Elwing's children, and the twins'
apparent forgiveness for his part in what happened to their parents, was
a sign of partial redemption for Maglor - seemingly the most reluctant
of all the Kinslayers. I love that in this drabble Maglor found an
appropriate gift that could remain with Elrond and "sing" for him even
when Maglor could not, and provide a reminder of love and affection
shared through all the long years that Elrond would remain in Middle-earth.

I also liked the gentle tribute to any artist's completion of a long and
beloved effort: ["Both satisfied and melancholy at being done..."] In my
humble experience this is so often true. (Along with relief, oh yes -
that, too!) I have to wonder, though: What about Elros' gift?
-----------------------------------
Title: Sixteen Singing Eagles · Author: Isabeau of Greenlea · Races:
Cross-Cultural: Fixed-Length Ficlet · ID: 678
Reviewer: dkpalaska · 2006-09-27 07:27:42
Isabeaus Hethlin is one of the best OFCs Ive read. She is a very
capable and talented individual, but her characterization is
well-rounded. Isabeau keeps Hethlin human by writing her as lacking in
some areas, and singing is one ability that Heth just doesn't have. From
miscellaneous descriptions scattered throughout Isabeau's writings, I
picture her as being completely tone-deaf, or very nearly so. Certainly
her speaking voice is noted as being very pleasant.

I love that this particular failing becomes another connection between
her and her eagle friends. It was rather entertaining to see that even
young eagles can be extremely rude, despite their strong racial emphasis
on manners and polite behavior  Thelagos must be the eagle equivalent
of a human teenager. And I was tickled by the reference to the song
[Gondor Shall Abide]. Even in a short piece like this drabble there are
allusions to other events and sources within Altariel and Isabeaus
shared universe.

The setting of the eagle-moot was just as I would expect, and the
exchanges between Hethlin and the eagles (and her observances about
them) were excellent. This was a very funny and enjoyable interlude, but
naturally it only whets my appetite for Hethlins further adventures,
since this indicates there is at least one northern venture in her future!
-----------------------------------
Title: The Return of the Shadow · Author: juno_magic · Genres: Alternate
Universe: Incomplete · ID: 330
Reviewer: Aranel Took · 2006-09-27 14:11:09
An interesting story of what happens when our world crosses over with
Middle-Earth. But it's not your stereotypical "girl falls into
Middle-Earth" story--things are not so simple in Return of the Shadow.
The characters have complex backstories and their characterizations are
fleshed out--they feel like real people. Mina, the heroine, is capable
and intelligent, but she also has the flaws and insecurities of a real
person. Elentar can be stubborn and a pain in the behind.

Elentar has already had a long and interesting life in our world by the
time Mina meets him. These moments, along with his childhood in
Middle-Earth, occur in flashback chapters (with a guest appearance by a
famous person, which I found very fun to read). These chapters gradually
fill in Elentar's story and how he came to be a homeless elf on the
streets of Berlin. And when Mina and Elentar make a discovery about
Tolkien himself, the story really takes off and now I wait
not-so-paitiently to find out what happens next.
-----------------------------------
Title: I Will Lift Up Mine Eyes · Author: juno_magic · Races: Men · ID: 698
Reviewer: Aranel Took · 2006-09-27 14:34:38
This story is a look at a hidden corner of Middle-Earth, the story of an
average person. This gives a unique perspective of the world, removed
from the focus of the cultures we are so familiar with. It's a different
perspective on Eru than what we are familiar with. As the man makes his
journey to the top of the mountain, to relieve his comrade at the
beacon, his unique worldview unfolds. This is the story's greatest
asset--that it's a totally fresh look at Middle-Earth.
-----------------------------------
Title: About Legends or Whisperings of a Ghost · Author: juno_magic ·
Races: Men · ID: 699
Reviewer: Aranel Took · 2006-09-27 15:21:43
Legend has it that Beruthiel was a dark queen who set her cats to spy on
the people of Gondor. But what if that wasn't true?

We know that history is written by the victors and that is the premise
that Juno uses here. What if Beruthiel was a victim of a dream that
turned into a nightmare? What if the "spying" cats were only trying to
help an innocent girl trapped in the clutches of a madman? What if it
were the king who had tortured the brave cats? The story is dark and
sad, and sometimes disturbing, but that is often the case for people in
real life, and Juno gives Beruthiel life beyond the hints of her legend.
-----------------------------------
Title: Drift · Author: Ribby · Times: The Great Years: Gondor
Fixed-Length Ficlets · ID: 203
Reviewer: Nancy Brooke · 2006-09-27 16:12:37
I love the idea that even silent things - the river and its denizens -
could be touched by Boromir's fate.
-----------------------------------
Title: Just a Little Shove · Author: Inglor · Genres: Humor:
Fixed-Length Ficlet · ID: 798
Reviewer: Nancy Brooke · 2006-09-27 16:14:15
This is a great little idea. The author starts with so small a wrinkle
in the story, and explores every fold and consequence without ever
seeming to be confined by the form. Great job, Inglor.
-----------------------------------
Title: The Standard-Bearer · Author: Thevina Finduilas · Races: Men:
Vignette · ID: 716
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2006-09-27 16:31:13
This is a very moving interior monologue by Halbarad, who is coming to
realize that he may not survive the battle, and that his chieftain, who
has always been his dear friend, will soon become King. Very evocative
and insightful!
-----------------------------------

Hi all,

This week there were a lot of reviews written the past week (great job
you all!!), so today 50 reviews in two batches.

Title: The Shield-maid's Dance of Death · Author: Marta · Times: The
Great Years: Poetry · ID: 694
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2006-09-27 16:35:24
This poem is excellent! I love the skill of the rhyme and meter--perfect
scansion, and the description of Eowyn's state of mind utterly perfect
as well. I also appreciated the Author's Note, and plan to seek out her
model!
-----------------------------------
Title: The Spy · Author: daw the minstrel · Races: Elves · ID: 268
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2006-09-27 17:21:11
I really enjoyed this story. Beliond is one of the author's oft-used
OCs, but one doesn't have to be familiar with the backstory to
appreciate this. It's a bit of a romp, really, as he acts as an
instigator to stop a palace coup in a city of men. I love his
impersonation of a minstrel, and the serving women's appreciation of his
bottom, LOL! A very fun story!
-----------------------------------
Title: King's Man · Author: Gandalfs apprentice · Times: The Great
Years: Vignette · ID: 197
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2006-09-27 17:25:09
The night before the battle, Aragorn and Halbarad spend an evening in
remembrance of times past; Aragorn's words about still needing Halbarad
were especially poignant, as we know the fate that will await him.
Bittersweet and full of feeling.
-----------------------------------
Title: A Creature Of Fire · Author: daw the minstrel · Races: Elves:
Featuring Mirkwood Elves · ID: 956
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2006-09-27 17:27:58
An enthralling story, as we see the onslaught of Smaug upon Erebor from
the POV of the Mirkwood Elves. The suspense and danger of the story are
ratcheted up by Legolas' budding romance with an Elven lass who dwells
in the danger zone. Exciting and angsty by turns, it brings to life an
event that gets only short mention in canon.
-----------------------------------
Title: The Prince and the Pea · Author: Karri · Genres: Humor: Children
· ID: 158
Reviewer: Branwyn · 2006-09-27 17:33:35
I enjoyed this glimpse of the lighter side of the elves. Their sense of
humor and love of merriment were clearly evident in "The Hobbit" and to
a lesser degree in the LOTR. I loved the hints that this was a joke of
long-standing and that this was not the first time that Legolas had been
put to the test. He plays along with the good grace that one would
expect of a prince. It was too funny that the mattresses had been
"borrowed" from a certain pair of elves. His elders seem to treat Estel
like any younger member of the household--right down to teasing him
mercilessly--which is evidence that he has been accepted into the
extended family of his elven hosts.

A well-written and very funny fic! Thanks for sharing it with us.
-----------------------------------
Title: What Better Companion? · Author: Space Weavil · Races: Elves ·
ID: 175
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2006-09-27 17:37:29
Oh my! I am impressed. This is the Olorin who would become beloved
Gandalf--his openness, curiousity, love and wisdom are already manifest.
And, yes, who better for him to learn the ways of the embodied than
Glorindel? Wonderful!
-----------------------------------
Title: The Road Not Taken · Author: Branwyn · Races: Men: Vignette · ID: 104
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2006-09-27 17:46:01
A nice little vignette, of Boromir being set on his way out of Rohan,
when he journeyed North. I enjoyed the discussion of the swan, and his
answer to it with his own horn! Very nicely done.
-----------------------------------
Title: Iridescence · Author: Larner · Times: The Great Years: Vignette ·
ID: 121
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2006-09-27 17:48:44
This is a delightful look at something that could easily have happened
when the hobbits were in the White City! I can see Pippin's curiousity
and eagerness being aroused by such strange birds--and yes, he would
have hurried to share his discovery with his friends! The idea that they
had never seen peacocks before, and their fascination with all that
beauty was delightful.

-----------------------------------
Title: Here You Cannot Leave Me · Author: Alassante · Genres: Drama:
Poetry · ID: 356
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2006-09-27 17:50:53
A very nice poem on the death of Aragorn. Very nicely done--reminds me
of a medieval ballad.
-----------------------------------
Title: Shadows of a Nameless Fear · Author: Budgielover · Genres: Drama:
Incomplete · ID: 640
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2006-09-27 17:55:46
This is a WIP for which I eagerly await each update! It is very exciting
and suspenseful, every chapter ends in a nail-biting cliffie!

I especially love the characterizations of the hobbits in this. They are
not helpless little beings who need rescuing--they are heroes in their
own right, and will rescue one another if they can. Which is not to say
that the rest of the Fellowship doesn't shine as well, or that rescue
has to be effected. I love Frodo's stubbornness, Pippin's bravery, Sam's
determination, and Merry's courage! I can't wait for more!
-----------------------------------
Title: In the Service of the King · Author: grey_wonderer · Times: The
Great Years: Post-Sauron's Fall · ID: 138
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2006-09-27 18:01:25
This is one of GW's rare "serious" stories, which is not to say it is
devoid of humor (I think she's incapable of leaving it out), but it's
not one of her side-splitters, either. Pippin seems somewhat distracted
from his duties in Minas Tirith after the War is over--or is he? Somehow
the things he is doing have more importance than first appears on the
surface. It's beautifully handled, from his cousin's concerns to the
final solution. One of her best stories, I'd say.
-----------------------------------
Title: Holding the Line · Author: Marta · Times: The Great Years: Gondor
Fixed-Length Ficlets · ID: 581
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2006-09-27 18:04:47
An interesting look at movie-verse Legolas' thoughts during the battle
of Pelennor, when he was about to attack the oliphaunt.
-----------------------------------
Title: Antiphon to Light · Author: Thevina Finduilas · Races: Dwarves ·
ID: 155
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2006-09-27 18:12:33
Three lovely vignettes dealing with Gimli's reaction to Galadriel. All
of them are thoughtful and insightful, but I must confess I like his
conversation with Pippin best. And I love the Dwarvish name that Gimli
made for her.
-----------------------------------
Title: Elfwine · Author: annmarwalk · Genres: Humor: Fixed-Length Ficlet
· ID: 70
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2006-09-27 18:14:36
This made me grin. Such a perfectly accurate and realistic reaction to
the welcome news. I could just see it in my mind!
-----------------------------------
Title: Banished · Author: shirelinghpc · Times: Fourth Age and Beyond:
Gondor · ID: 993
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2006-09-27 18:19:17
This was a very cute little bit of silliness, and made me giggle
unashamedly. I could easily imagine Pippin coming up with exactly a
scheme like that! What a funny scenario!
-----------------------------------
Title: Dust On My Saddle · Author: Rous · Races: Elves: Other
Fixed-Length Ficlet · ID: 630
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2006-09-27 18:20:38
This little snippet actually made me wish for more!
-----------------------------------
Title: Call yourself Thorongil · Author: Nilmandra · Times: Late Third
Age · ID: 731
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2006-09-27 18:23:02
An interesting take on the meeting between Gandalf and Aragorn, and on
Aragorn's decision to ride south into Rohan and Gondor as Thorongil. A
good beginning to a long and firm friendship, and very plausible as
well, as most of this author's stories are.
-----------------------------------
Title: Of Falcons and Mûmakil · Author: Lialathuveril · Genres: Romance:
Lothíriel & Éomer · ID: 97
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2006-09-27 18:27:21
A few months ago, there was a sudden spate of Eomer/Lothiriel romances
at my favorite archive. This was the first of them I read, and remains
my favorite. I love the very feisty Lothiriel, as well as her friendship
with Eowyn. And the way she gets off on the wrong track with Eomer, and
the way she defends herself when necessary. A very good read, with
romance, angst and humor in equal measure.
-----------------------------------
Title: Inheritance · Author: Primsong · Times: Late Third Age: The Shire
· ID: 310
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2006-09-27 18:29:12
A very chilling and frightening AU indeed, and one that I scarcely like
to contemplate. Yet if the right care had not been taken, it *could*
have happened--and then what? All M-e covered in darkness. Excellent bit
of speculation.
-----------------------------------
Title: Tom Bombadil and the Four Travellers · Author: Dreamflower ·
Times: The Great Years: Poetry · ID: 887
Reviewer: Branwyn · 2006-09-28 00:54:48
Dreamflower seamlessly interweaves quotes from Tom's verses and dialogue
in "The Fellowship" with her own poetry written in his idiosyncratic
style. (She does differentiate the quotes from Tolkien by setting them
in italics.) Tom's meeting with Farmer Maggot is a nice touch (if memory
serves, Tolkien insinuates in the book that these two are acquainted),
and I like how Old Man Willow resentfully refers to the hobbits as [the
legged ones]. The scholarly "notes" are very well done, right down to
the citation of a fictitious reference.

This is a charming piece about a character who is rarely seen in fanfic.

-----------------------------------
Title: Reaping · Author: Dreamflower · Races: Hobbits: Post-Sauron's
Fall · ID: 169
Reviewer: Raksha the Demon · 2006-09-28 03:24:08
I thought I had already reviewed this story, but evidently I hadn't...

Anyway, this is a hobbit tragedy, a story as old as time, the fate of
the collaborator, who, betraying his own people to puff himself up,
eventually reaps what he has sown. Only here, the hobbit Ted Sandyman
reaps a terrible harvest for his seeds of petty evil.

Ted is characterised wonderfully here. He doesn't think that he is evil,
unlike Melkor or Sauron, he never made a clear choice, he just went the
easiest way and indulged his own meanness; and paid off some old scores,
never realizing that he had taken the path to darkness just as certainly
as if he had followed a road with a neon sign flashing 'EVIL'.

Frodo, Merry and Sam are also well-written, even through the tainted
glass of Ted's memory.

This is not easy or comfortable reading. But it is worthwhile, an
excellent look at the taint that Saruman and Grima and Lotho brought to
the Shire.

-----------------------------------
Title: Inheritance · Author: Primsong · Times: Late Third Age: The Shire
· ID: 310
Reviewer: Raksha the Demon · 2006-09-28 03:31:48
Brrrrrr - a sly might-have-been AU which shows a horrible twist in the
destiny of the One Ring that is almost funny, but could have happened,
and is logically and convincingly written here.

Excellent characterisation of all the hobbits, and the preoccupation
with convention that is one of the Shire's less attractive qualities.


-----------------------------------
Title: The Letter · Author: Gryffinjack · Races: Hobbits: Post-Sauron's
Fall · ID: 955
Reviewer: Bodkin · 2006-09-28 05:25:33
Yes, it would be rather an impossible letter to write. Too little
information wouldn't seem worth writing - and too much and they would
all (ruffians willing) come charging down to Minas Tirith to check that
the four of them had survived. I'm not surprised writing that letter
took a lot of thought.

Love Pippin's single-breathed summary.

And the way his parents responded to the letter - and their realisation
that he knew nothing about what was happening in the Shire. And that he
was on the way home.


-----------------------------------
Title: Forlorn Hope · Author: Nancy Brooke · Races: Men: Steward's Sons
Fixed-Length Ficlets · ID: 301
Reviewer: Linda Hoyland · 2006-09-28 06:19:21
A poetic and moving fictlet. I especially liked the last line as though
little does Faramir know it,but "Hope" will restore the tree together
with his life. I liked the clever title given the history of the phase.
-----------------------------------
Title: The Letter · Author: Gryffinjack · Races: Hobbits: Post-Sauron's
Fall · ID: 955
Reviewer: Raksha the Demon · 2006-09-28 07:51:56
Outside of the MEFAs, I don't read too many hobbit fanfiction stories,
but I'm going to reread this one. It's excellent - funny and a bit sad,
and very hobbity all around.

Loved Pippin's summaries of the perils he and the other hobbits have
endured, all the things that he wouldn't really want to tell in a letter
to his parents for fear of scaring them out of their wits. And the
saddest thing is that he believes, as he finally writes the letter, that
the Shire is the same beautiful, untouched, peaceful place he left it.
It's ironic that the letter reaches a Shire shadowed and brutalized -
but it gives Pippin's parents hope.

And Pippin's line about not having to say [Until the King returns]
anymore is funny in a very exasperated, frustrated way that nonetheless
carries the reality of change better than his other words about the
Ranger-king.

-----------------------------------

and batch two

Title: At Last · Author: SlightlyTookish · Races: Hobbits: General
Fixed-Length Ficlet · ID: 238
Reviewer: Nancy Brooke · 2006-09-28 13:35:16
This is very nicely understated. I like how Merry and Pippin seem to
move in tandem, taking turns finding their hope, as though dancing
though many leagues apart.
-----------------------------------
Title: Summoned · Author: Agape4Gondor · Races: Men: Steward's Sons
Fixed-Length Ficlets · ID: 840
Reviewer: Nancy Brooke · 2006-09-28 13:38:55
This is a very interesting meditation and covers so much ground - not
only Ithilien and Minas Tirith, but the past, future, love and loss as
well. No wonder you needed 400 words - nothing else would have done it
justice.
-----------------------------------
Title: The Price of Power · Author: Rabidsamfan · Times: The Great
Years: General Fixed-Length Ficlets · ID: 989
Reviewer: Nancy Brooke · 2006-09-28 13:40:13
An interesting thought. So often Saruman is identified with the
mechanized and Gandalf with the natural. "But trees are not an army" ...
Oh how wrong he was!
-----------------------------------
Title: Suspicion · Author: Gandalfs apprentice · Genres: Humor:
Fixed-Length Ficlet · ID: 791
Reviewer: Nancy Brooke · 2006-09-28 13:42:10
I guess we're not in the Shire, anymore ... very interesting that Sam
would seat part of his suspicion on Strider's being so very armed. I
thought you captured all three characters very fully, all the more for
being so brief.
-----------------------------------
Title: Following Orders · Author: EdorasLass · Times: The Great Years:
Gondor Fixed-Length Ficlets · ID: 54
Reviewer: Nancy Brooke · 2006-09-28 13:43:37
Such an oft-used an infamous excuse! Bravo for finding it here in Middle
Earth and reminding us all of where we have heard it at home. A truly
new image of Faramir.
-----------------------------------
Title: A bit of garden · Author: Tanaqui · Races: Hobbits: General
Fixed-Length Ficlet · ID: 901
Reviewer: Nancy Brooke · 2006-09-28 13:45:12
Very nice and, as a compulsive weeder in my own garden and others, I
think you for enobling the trait. This is a sweet little vignette. You
found wonderful ground over which to explore interaction between Sam and
Elrond.
-----------------------------------
Title: Inheritance · Author: Acacea · Races: Men: Steward's Sons
Fixed-Length Ficlets · ID: 524
Reviewer: Nancy Brooke · 2006-09-28 13:48:34
Very interesting. I liked your portrayal of Gandalf's removal, how he
can be detachedly considering Faramir at the same time that he is
engaged in conversation with him. I've no doubt Gandalf always did have
his mind simultaneously the micro and macro visions, as it were.
-----------------------------------
Title: Red River · Author: Altariel · Times: Fourth Age and Beyond:
Gondor · ID: 82
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2006-09-28 17:23:52
There are a number of stories dealing with the possible ramifications to
the South and East of Sauron's defeat. This brief tale is one of the
better ones. No appeal would be better to Aragorn, Elessar, than this
one--to facilitate freedom. And Faramir would know this without any
doubt. Very well done, by both the characters, and the author!
-----------------------------------
Title: The Lost · Author: Altariel · Times: Fourth Age and Beyond:
Gondor · ID: 181
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2006-09-28 17:56:24
This story seems very entangled in other stories, yet I feel that while
it would be enhanced by holding all the other pieces, it does not suffer
for their lack. Faramir in this comes across as very much himself--not
perfect by any means, but struggling always to do what is the right and
good thing, and helped by the knowledge of Eowyn's love. And it is such
a gift to find that Boromir did leave something of himself behind.
Beautifully done.
-----------------------------------
Title: Lord of Werewolves · Author: Raksha the Demon · Genres: Humor:
Parody · ID: 255
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2006-09-28 18:15:40
*Snicker*! This is just wrong--in a good way! It''s so funny to imagine
the dread Morgoth coming across as something like a magical Mafia don,
and Sauron described as ["like a sissy Noldo"] spoiling the werewolves'
training. I also liked seeing the vampire Thurengwithal described as ["a
leggy moll"], LOL! And the idea that Morgoth had to worry about
housebreaking a werewolf! *shakes head*giggles* I'm sure if the Valar
could have seen all this, they would not have bothered with the War of
Wrath, they simply would have ridiculed Morgoth to death.
-----------------------------------
Title: Weaver · Author: Vana Tuivana · Genres: Drama: Poetry · ID: 627
Reviewer: Nancy Brooke · 2006-09-28 20:28:47
This is wonderful. I wondered at the persistently sad tone until the
end, and then everything made sense. Good job. The simplicity of the
form carried me along nicely, enhancing by contrast rather than
undercutting the seriousness of the content.
-----------------------------------
Title: Beneath the Hollow Hill · Author: Haleth · Races: Elves:
Feanorians · ID: 314
Reviewer: Isabeau of Greenlea · 2006-09-28 23:49:14
Maglor is one of those people you can take almost anywhere, since his
story is so open-ended, and I always enjoy the stories about the myriad
places in space and time people take this particular son of Feanor.

This one was even more pleasing, since I enjoy Celtic folklore and
legends. Nuada's resemblance to Maglor's brother Maedhros was eerie and
heartbreaking. For a moment, I almost hoped Maglor would succumb to the
temptation to eat or drink, that he would find a home at last among the
Tuatha de Danaan. But upon reflection, it is better and more hopeful
that he did not, lest he be forever denied a reunion with his kin.

His offer to Nuada to accompany him on his travels seemed a hopeful
note, indicating that he might be tiring of his solitary existence,
coming back to himself enough to desire companionship once more.
-----------------------------------
Title: Beneath the Hollow Hill · Author: Haleth · Races: Elves:
Feanorians · ID: 314
Reviewer: Rhapsody · 2006-09-29 12:54:16
This is a stunning story where Haleth weaves in the legend of the Irish
people and their folklore regarding their own elves (and the dangers! It
is known to eat their food or one will be lost forever in their realm)
and former rulers.

As Nuada says, ["My people's time above is over," he said, regret
clouding his strange yet familiar features. "I would fade like the
morning dew."] Is a daunting parallel to the fate of the firstborn in
Tolkiens world, since they were doom to fade also. Other parallels
between Maedhros (loosing a hand, renouncing the title of high king) are
beautifully woven into and the feeling that Maglor will walk upon, if
not in heart with the memory of his lost brother or by the gift of the
harp. What I especially like about this work is that it has the feel of
a story that is told around a fire deep in the night, the flow and
pacing is excellent in this piece. This is a very special story!
-----------------------------------
Title: The Beginning of a Beautiful Friendship · Author: Elana · Times:
Early Third Age: Fixed-Length Ficlet · ID: 150
Reviewer: Rhapsody · 2006-09-29 12:58:12
What a nice observation of Gandalf how he perceives the Hobbits for the
first time! It would surely explain his love for smoking pipe-weed and
who would be suited perfectly for this? Yes the Hobbits. I love the last
line, it mirrors Gandalfs curiosity and has a bit of foreboding of what
is to come!
-----------------------------------
Title: Horse Thief · Author: Gandalfs apprentice · Races: Cross-Cultural
· ID: 365
Reviewer: Rhapsody · 2006-09-29 13:13:37
Awwww, I love how this story unfolds itself. For a moment, I was
wondering again who might have stolen Asfaloth (yes I know, summary and
such), but I could not help myself to think it was Arwen. What really
works so wonderfully is in this story is Estel's reasoning and why he
left Rivendell to prove himself. For boys of that age, all they want is
to be with the grown ups and a simple promise can be a very good
motivation to master something. Elladan did underestimate that and has
to tell Gilraen what happened. Now.. that would be very interesting too.
A nice short story which gives the reader the warm fuzzies. Very enjoyable!
-----------------------------------
Title: The Gift of Gold · Author: pippinfan88 · Genres: Drama:
Remembering · ID: 267
Reviewer: Rhapsody · 2006-09-29 13:45:40
I remember reading this story before and after the first paragraph tears
welled up in my eyes, again. This is such a beautifully constructed
piece, a story within a story and twice it resembles the theme of this
subcategory. Hamfast grief over loosing his wife so suddenly and the
childrens difficulty dealing with it ([Evry night fore she goes t
bed, she opens Bells side o the wardrobe&says she can smell her
ma.]).. simply wow! I think you captured the hardship so incredibly
well in the widower and the little kids. For a moment I thought: why
would he give away the clothes, shouldnt Marigold be suited to wear
them later on. But just as that thought pops up, Pippinfan explains it.
And this is how the story flows, the reader wonders about things and so
naturally, the story tells itself to you. What is more special about
this moving tale is the sense of passing traditions in every
generations, from mother to daughter with a gift of great significance.
What is rewarding as well is that even a generation later, the Cottons
sees the fruit of an evening of labour presented to them in a very
touching manner. This in a way and indirectly portrays the closeness of
the Hobbit families and is so beautifully touched upon here. Short and
simple: but it gives you a content feeling when you read the last words.
A very moving story, thanks for writing it Pippinfan!
-----------------------------------
Title: Inspirare · Author: Ariel · Races: Hobbits: Friendship · ID: 622
Reviewer: Rhapsody · 2006-09-29 14:04:29
What a tenderly written short story. And ai, full of things I
recognised, for some reason pregnant women seem to be able to pick up on
a lot of things and once Rosie realised Frodo is ill, all falls on it's
place. It leaves me wondering a bit about Sam, who most likely in his
optimism has not noticed that Frodo is ill after carrying the ring for
so long. What really caught my attention in this piece was this line:
[Sam had once described what Elves were like; both old and young at the
same time, gay and sad, but with a deep wisdom.]

and then this one:
["They will look lovely on her. My mother would have been most pleased,
I think."] This made me wonder.. how does he know it is a girl? But then
at the end I read the line quoted from Tolkien's works, which made me
wonder. And I re-read the story again, just as Rosie starts to perceive
him as an elf. This is such a rich story with lovely descriptions and
down to earth dialogue. This story was a treasure to discover.
-----------------------------------
Title: It's the Thought · Author: annmarwalk · Races: Men: Fixed-Length
Ficlets With Children · ID: 71
Reviewer: Rhapsody · 2006-09-29 14:10:29
A cute drabble and I just love the description of Éowyn's watching Éomer
playing with the sword. It feels as if at that very moment she decides
to become just as him and avenge her parents. Théodred characerisationis
beautifully done here, the thought that he would take care of him is a
most satisfying one!
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Title: The Groomsman · Author: Elen Kortirion · Races: Dwarves:
Fixed-Length Ficlet · ID: 44
Reviewer: Rhapsody · 2006-09-29 14:15:01
I find this drabble, for some reason, incredibly fitting for Gimli. The
practical Dwarf who wants to make sure that Boromir will look good on
his final journey. I love the way in which the author touches upon the
grief of Legolas and Aragorn who mourn for their fallen comrade after
going through so much. Finely drabbled and incredibly enjoyable!
-----------------------------------
Title: Promise · Author: Vana Tuivana · Genres: Romance: Poetry · ID: 643
Reviewer: Rhapsody · 2006-09-29 14:25:46
This poem.. or drabble stands out for various reasons. First Vana, I
find it amazing that you can write a poem of exactly 100 words. The next
thing, at a first glance is the construction of the piece and you simply
know this will be special and outstanding.

In this poem, Vana tells the tale of the relationship of Fëanor and
Nerdanel& but as the summary says& it is just the betrothal. Very
poignant is that Nerdanel in this work will realise that loving this elf
will bring her pain and sorrow, but for her the love they will share,
the passion he invokes in her make her sway and say yes. I can imagine
that even though the parted bitterly, Nerdanel will not regret this at
all. The promise of youth, the way she sees him and the blissfulness but
the looming dark times that awaits them: great foreshadowing. All if
this is portrayed in this piece in an excellent & unusual way. Great
work Vana! Very original.
-----------------------------------
Title: Lightly Sings the Wind · Author: Ellie · Genres: Drama: Elves in
Later Ages · ID: 799
Reviewer: Marta · 2006-09-29 14:29:24
This is a very intense look at what this character must have felt. Such
desperate pain!
-----------------------------------
Title: Heralded By Storms · Author: SilverMoonLady · Genres: Romance:
Incomplete · ID: 128
Reviewer: Dreamflower · 2006-09-29 17:44:13
This is beautiful. I don't believe I've ever read any long story about
the courtship of Saradoc and Esmeralda. I really look forward to seeing
more of their story--this author really has a knack for hobbit romance!
Saradoc indeed, is charming and dashing and handsome and gallant. And
Esmeralda is brave and determined and devoted and loyal. It is so easy
to see how these two personalities could have brought forth Meriadoc the
Magnificent, and have had a hand in the character of Frodo Baggins. I
hope there is more soon.
-----------------------------------
Title: Years After and a Sea Between · Author: Dana · Genres: Alternate
Universe: Post-Grey Havens · ID: 39
Reviewer: Marta · 2006-09-29 23:00:04
This story has a powerful minimalist feel to it. Pippin is grown and
weary but in a sense desperate for comfort. Anyone familiar with grief
will recognize themselves in this very realistic portrayal. It told just
enough to get the story apart while leaving enough unsaid to hint at the
confusion and off-kilter feeling I'm sure Pippin and Merry would have at
the end of their lives.
-----------------------------------
Title: Theme and Variations · Author: Gandalfs apprentice · Genres:
Humor: Gondor · ID: 784
Reviewer: Marta · 2006-09-29 23:04:03
This story is so clever. The two sisters of Denethor are both drawn
convincingly, and Thorongil's legacy is true from start to finish. I
personally share Faramir's terror to what this errant wife could do to
his family's legacy (which is none too certain after Denethor's manner
of death and Faramir's abdication, I'm sure) but Imrahil's quiet
amusement was hilarious as well. I'm sure things would have gone
something like this, and the time period just after the coronation is
captured with wit and humor here. This is a must-read for Gondor fans,
and anyone in need of a few chuckles.
-----------------------------------
Title: Aglarond · Author: annmarwalk · Races: Dwarves: Fixed-Length
Ficlet · ID: 68
Reviewer: Elen Kortirion · 2006-09-29 23:20:04
There's a study eloquence here that is very characteristic of the
Dwarves and shows very believably how they would view poetry - as idealy
being a product of their hands as much as their hearts and minds.
-----------------------------------