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Title: Stone from Above � Author: Thundera Tiger � Races: Men � ID: 284
Reviewer: dkpalaska � 2007-11-30 21:15:03
A gripping read from Hama's PoV. His loyalty, bravery and desperation
all come through beautifully, even as the reader is grieving over his end.

This is an enjoyable gap-filler for yet another of those odd side
comments that pepper Tolkien's work. Even better, it is a well-earned
tribute to a character that gets short shrift in the book, especially
after (as the author notes) making at least one rather critical
decision that definitively affected the outcome of Rohan's future!

Title: The End of a Lonely Road � Author: White Gull � Races: Hobbits
� ID: 542
Reviewer: fantasyfan � 2007-11-30 21:37:41
White Gull has done what we all secretly long to do - given Frodo a
happier ending than Tolkien did. In this story, Violet in her
suffering both before and during the time of troubles becomes the kind
of strong and compassionate companion that is so suited to our heroic
but tragic Ringbearer. White Gull does not dimish the noble sacrifice
of Frodo - he is still wounded beyond healing in this world, and still
ready to leave home, security and love behind to complete his
redemptive sacrifice, but in this story he recieves a more immediate
reward than a vague promise of potential healing the the West. In
honor of her own selfless act that saved Rose Cotton, and in
recognition of the destruciton of her own health and ability to thrive
in the Shire, Violet is allowed to travel West with Frodo, rewarding
them both with the promise of the healing that comes from love, no
matter what either of them may eventually find on reaching Tol Eressea.

I enjoyed this very dramatic and gripping tale. White Gull writes with
a lot of emotion and makes you really feel for her characters, canon
or author-created.


Title: Hope Unquenched � Author: White Gull � Genres: Poetry: With
Hobbits � ID: 410
Reviewer: fantasyfan � 2007-11-30 21:48:25
In this short poem, Sam faces the loss of what has been his signature
characteristic through all the adventures and troubles of his life -
he almost loses his hope. Old and alone, careworn and almost
dispairing, he stands under the mallorn. But he wouldn't have been Sam
if hope had died for long. His much-beloved and missed master is
tangibly present in the wind, the leaves, and the memories, and Sam is
able to raise his head to new hope that he might find across the sea.

White Gull really shines as an author in her poetry. Every word is
carefully chosen, every nuance and rhyme and meter contributes to the
emotion of the whole. I especially liked the contrasting images of the
slow movement of the old hobbit and the wind-driven movement of the
tree. The emotion in this piece is heartfelt and poignant. And though
Frodo is never mentioned explicitly, he's never far from recall by
either Sam or reader. A beautiful poem.

Title: Elrond's Song � Author: White Gull � Genres: Poetry � ID: 409
Reviewer: fantasyfan � 2007-11-30 22:04:51
Elves take a long view of things, and Elrond perhaps has a better
grasp of the big picture of the long fight against Sauron than most.
He has been one of the architects of the long plan, and was there for
some of the key defeats in what must have seemed a long and fruitless
war. Mostly though, Elves wait. Sometimes they just endure through the
battles and councils, through the times when it is not yet time to
act, or the way of action is not clear.

All that is present in the first few stanzas of White Gull's poem.
Elrond has never stopped fighting and scheming for Sauron's downfall,
but at times even he did not know how those plans were to be
fulfilled. That is, until he met Frodo. You can feel his appreciation
of how Frodo did what the great among men and elves never could - he
endured the evil and fought, not with armies but with only his will,
giving hope he could not keep for himself for the sake of all of Arda,
and restoring the hope that you sense Elrond has almost lost.

I don't often contemplate what it might have meant to the Elves to
leave the world they were so bound to. So much is given up when they
leave the world to Men after ages of Elven guardianship, but Elrond
does it with a sense of relief that, thanks to Frodo: with gratitutde
and anticipation of the end of days, when they will all meet again.

As usual with White Gull's poetry, each word is perfectly chosen for
nuance and rhythm, and the repeating structure of each stanza makes it
feel like a song. I always look forward to reading her poetry.



Title: Aragorn's Moment � Author: docmon � Races: Men: Eriador or
Rivendell � ID: 509
Reviewer: Linda hoyland � 2007-12-01 01:07:51
[spoilers]

This outstanding ficlet offers a revealing glimpse into Aragorn's
state of mind as he sets out upon the quest ,which will either make or
destroy him. What a dreadful burden for one man to carry with not only
his future but that of the whole world at stake ! This,however is what
Aragorn has been born for and he will conquer his own fears and give
his all.

Title: Of Difficulties and Delicate Situations � Author: Garnet Took �
Races: Hobbits: Post-Grey Havens � ID: 255
Reviewer: Linda hoyland � 2007-12-01 01:22:38
[spoilers]

We like to imagine Pippin as making a full recovery from his injuries,
but what if they effected his future life in a most crucial area, that
of having children?

This difficult subject is dealt with tactfully and tasefully when
Pippin and and his wife are helped by Aragorn to receive their heart's
desire.

Title: The Dryad � Author: Imhiriel � Times: Late Third Age: 3018-3022
TA: General Drabble � ID: 71
Reviewer: Linda hoyland � 2007-12-01 01:27:24
[spoilers]

I loved the idea of Ithilien with Dryads who protected the
Rangers,unknown to them.I loved the Dryad's perceptive first glimpse
of Faramir and her insight into his worth.

Title: Comes Now The Plaintiff, Frodo Baggins � Author: EdorasLass �
Genres: Humor: Parody � ID: 17
Reviewer: stefaniab � 2007-12-01 01:39:30
What a comment on our litiguous society this story is. "Comes Now the
Plaintiff, Frodo Baggins," is a legal brief that answers the question,
"What if Frodo were to sue for damages the very heroes that persuaded
him to go on the quest to destroy the Ring of power?

The prime defendent cited in the brief is the nefarious Aragorn son of
Arathorn, aka Strider aka Thorongil aka Elessar aka Estel aka Frankie
"the Hammer" of Pelargrir (who?) and many more aliases. The second
defendent is the murderous Maia Gandalf Greyhame aka Gandalf the White
aka Mithrandir aka Olorin, and not to mention Stoned Old Guy in the
Hat and Magneto. The last is the criminal kidnapper Faramir, Son of
Denethor, House of Hurin, aka The Spare. This band of miscreants,
according to the brief, conned poor Frodo, sent him on a fools errand,
and kidnapped him, among other crimes. Surely Frodo Baggins must be
awarded a vast sum of money for the pain and suffering these three
have inflicted on him!

Edoraslass taps on her experience typing legal briefs for these
riotous parody on lawyers and Lord of the Rings. Her brief and
legalesse are the real thing and very worth reading. I was bellowing
with laughter.

Title: Winds of Change � Author: Lady Bluejay � Genres: Romance: With
Rohirrim � ID: 228
Reviewer: obsidianj � 2007-12-01 02:13:12
[Spoilers]
This is an absolutely delightful Eomer/Lothiriel romance entirely from
Eomer's point of view. He is reluctant to marry for political reasons,
but discovers that as a king it is not so easy to meet a suitable wife
who is not lined up by his advisors for his perusal. When he meets
Lothiriel, he doesn't know who she is and when he figures it out, she
is another one of those suitable women. But by then his encounters
with her leave him in no doubt that he would like to marry her. Now he
needs to figure out her real feelings toward him.

I love the way all the new responsibilities and deference for his new
station keep getting in the way of any meaningful conversation. Woven
into this tale is the court etiquette of the Gondorian nobles, which
Eomer learns to use to his advantage, although he and Aragorn both
don't like it. Eomer's valet is priceless. I loved the exchange
between them when Eomer goes back to Edoras.

Title: Comforting Silence � Author: Radbooks � Times: Fourth Age and
Beyond: Gondor or Rohan � ID: 157
Reviewer: obsidianj � 2007-12-01 02:13:58
This is a beautiful little scene of Aragorn comforting Faramir after
the death of Eowyn. It depicts the strong friendship between the two
men. Aragorn and Faramir both come to life with a few words. I could
feel Faramir's deep grief and Aragorn's strong, silent support.
Aragorn pulling out his pipe made me smile.

Title: One Frodo Too Many � Author: Baranduin � Genres: Humor: Parody
� ID: 683
Reviewer: grey_wonderer � 2007-12-01 02:16:50
That was splendid! Iloved every single word of this one and I felt
sorry for poor, old Book Frodo having to sort it all out without
losing his mind or his temper. An excellent parody and the author
handled all of those different Frodo's very well.

Title: Reconcilation � Author: Dwimordene � Genres: Drama � ID: 86
Reviewer: obsidianj � 2007-12-01 02:17:24
[Spoilers]
I love this story. It is based on two situations in stories by
Isabeau. In one Peloren helps to beat Andrahar to a pulp and in
another story they are both friends. This story explores how the
change might have come about. But I don't think you need to read any
of these stories to understand this story.

All the characters in this story are well-drawn, complex characters
and come to life. Andrahar as a newly minted Swan Knight comes back to
Dol Amroth, and Peloren and Elethil, Peloren's friend, are back as
esquires after a year away with the infantry as punishment for the
beating incident. Everything should be okay now even if they are not
exactly friends, but they should be able to tolerate each other.

But the atmosphere, unspoken rules and a sometimes misunderstood Code
of Conduct that made the beating incident possible have not changed.
All this conspires that some esquires resent Peloren and Elethil for
what they did, others think it was a good thing what they did, but
they made the mistake of getting caught. Peloren and Elethil are the
target of bullying and since they are under oath not to be impolite or
start any trouble, they can't do anything about it, and in typical
fashion of young people they don't know when the pranks cross the line
and they need to get help. On top of that they can't avoid Andrahar
since he is one of their instructors.

Andrahar is also a victim, since there are still a lot of people even
among the leadership who think a Haradrim among the Swan Knights is a
stain on their honor. The tension racks up from chapter to chapter
until something has to give.

When Elethil finally cracks under the pressure, Peloren and Andrahar
are thrown together to try to find him. A surprise raid of Corsairs
manages to let them set aside their differences and respect each
other. It is still a long way to real friendship, but the groundwork
is done.

I highly recommend this story.

Title: Safe In My Arms � Author: Fiondil � Genres: Drama � ID: 470
Reviewer: obsidianj � 2007-12-01 02:18:43
[spoilers]
In this story Faramir, after his death, goes to Mandos' halls and
finds his brother and father again. I like the role reversal playing
out between the brothers. At first it seems they play the same roles
as in life, Boromir the older brother, protective of Faramir, and
Faramir trying to gain acceptance for being the way he is. But
gradually during the healing of past hurts new roles emerge and I love
the reconciliation scene with Denethor.

Title: Mushrooms � Author: claudia6032000 � Genres: Drama: The
Fellowship � ID: 561
Reviewer: obsidianj � 2007-12-01 02:19:22
Wicked, wicked mushrooms. Poor Frodo, being tricked by a mushroom is
no fun. I like the description of Boromir and Aragorn caring for
Frodo. At least for once Pippn followed orders and was spared.

Title: A Mother's Touch � Author: Raksha the Demon � Genres: Humor:
Other Fixed-Length Ficlet � ID: 44
Reviewer: grey_wonderer � 2007-12-01 02:20:32
This is the first Dragon fiction that I have read and I adore little
Smaug and his proud, caring mum. This was lovely and I like the fact
that as Dragons they can be covered in the blood of their enemies but
not coated with dirt like dwarves! Very well done!

Title: A Need To Know � Author: Pearl Took � Races: Hobbits: Post-Ring
War � ID: 776
Reviewer: grey_wonderer � 2007-12-01 02:26:12
Now that was excellent! I loved the way Tom Cotton showed his concern
over his daughter's future and managed to get an honest response
without even the very clever Samwise Gamgee catching on to his plan.
This was so like a father protecting his daughter! I adored it.

Title: Hiraeth � Author: Llinos � Genres: Poetry � ID: 803
Reviewer: grey_wonderer � 2007-12-01 02:31:04
This is such a wonderful love poem. These lines tell all really,
Yet I loiter by Mirrormede's side,
While Il�vatar calls from the ocean swell,
I linger still, seeking � yearning!

The love of the sea and it's call is strong but even when faced with
that the choice is to stay by the one you love, Mirrormede. The fact
that this sea-longing can be put off show the full meaning of the
desire. This is a beautifully written poem like all of this author's
poems and the emotion in this one is very clear and almost pulls at
you as you realize that the narrator of the poem is being pulled
between the need for the sea and for true love.

Title: Remembering Anew � Author: Pearl Took � Times: Fourth Age and
Beyond � ID: 88
Reviewer: grey_wonderer � 2007-12-01 02:33:27
This story contains some very engaging original characters and those
characters manage to hold the reader's attention. The plot is very
entertaining and so as not to spoil it for any who have not read this
one, I won't say more about details involving the main idea of this
one. I will say that Merry, Pippin, Frodo and Sam all appear in this
story in a very imaginative way. There is suspense, there is humor and
there is one moment involving The Red Book that really takes your
breath away. This author is always one of my favorites and I really
enjoyed reading this one.

Title: Letting Go � Author: SlightlyTookish � Races: Hobbits:
Post-Ring War � ID: 230
Reviewer: grey_wonderer � 2007-12-01 02:41:14
I always enjoy everything that this author writes but this is one of
my favorites. I adore the way she describes Paladin's struggle to
understand what has happened to his son during his time away and his
efforts to find a way in which he can help. I like the scene where
Paladin over-hears Merry comforting Pippin after a dark dream and
Paladin leaves before Pippin sees him knowing that Merry can help his
son more than he can at that moment. That must have been very
difficult and it is written very well. A lovely story.

Title: Rohan's Future � Author: Madeleine � Genres: Humor: Gondor or
Rohan � ID: 79
Reviewer: Linda hoyland � 2007-12-01 02:46:21
[spoilers]

A delightfully amusing tale in which readers are pleased to see that
Lothiriel and Eomer's passion for each other in the author's earlier
stories has proved very fruitful and provided a quiver of heirs for Rohan.

Unfortunately the children are rather a handful,willing to listen only
to their parents, but are nevertheless loved by the people of Rohan.

When Eomer and Lothiriel go away,the boys are left in charge of their
hapless uncle, who rather unwisely decideds to keep them busy building
a catapult !

The underlying theme of this well written story is that adults and
children need to have mutual respect for and learn from each other.

Title: Are You Going to Leave Me? � Author: Llinos � Genres: Drama:
With Merry � ID: 142
Reviewer: grey_wonderer � 2007-12-01 02:51:26
One of my favorite authors writing about the close relationship
between my two favorite hobbits! Naturally, I love this story. This
manages to show the deep bond, closer than cousins, between Pippin
Took and Merry Brandybuck. I like the fact that this begins with
Merry's confusion and the darkness that he must fight after his part
in the death of the Witch King. I like the idea of Pippin as the
strong one giving support to his older cousin when Merry needs it
most. The author also conveys some of Pippin's guilt at having looked
into the palantir and then being taken away to Minas Tirith leaving
Merry to go on without him. You can see how Pippin feels responsible
in a way for Merry's current state. The healing in this is very well
written and we see how difficult it is for Merry to fight off the
shadow and how Pippin stays at his side throughout it all. In the end,
Pippin is still trying to protect Merry by not actually giving him the
full details of the battle that Pippin must ride off to fight. As
hobbits will both Merry and Pippin make light of it but you know what
both are really feeling. Excellent read!

Title: Unexpected � Author: Madeleine � Genres: Romance: Incomplete �
ID: 559
Reviewer: Linda hoyland � 2007-12-01 02:52:57
[spoilers]

As Eomer and Lothiriel begin to adjust to life in Rohan, they quickly
learn that here are two strong wills.

I especially loved the humour in this tale. After all, Lothiriel is
the lady who asked the King of the Reunited Kingdom to hold parcels
for her.

Lothiriel has her own ideas when a tutor is needed to teach her
Rohirric,those ideas and her husband's turn out to be at loggerheads.

The battles continue in the bedroom,where Lothiriel is an amazingly
confident and eager young wife.

There is never a dull moment in this delightful story by this very
gifted author. I would love to know what happens next

Title: The Three Hunters � Author: Dreamflower � Genres: Adventure �
ID: 333
Reviewer: grey_wonderer � 2007-12-01 02:57:48
I love Aragorn's POV . I don't recall having read anything about his
search for Merry and Pippin before this. I liked seeing Glorfindel in
the story as he should be. I also thought his impatience was
interesting since the Hobbits were not yet his friends and his main
concern would be Frodo and his safety rather than keeping the three
together.
Legolas doesn't often make his way into my own stories as I am a bit
nervous about writing Elves but this author does a lovely job with
him. I enjoyed his thoughts in this.
I enjoyed the way Gimli talked about his own father and Bilbo while
recounting his feelings. After all, he had family that had dealt with
Hobbits before. I
enjoyed his POV very much.
Lovely story all around!

Title: When the King Comes Back (the Great Smials) � Author:
Dreamflower � Genres: Drama: The Shire � ID: 262
Reviewer: grey_wonderer � 2007-12-01 03:03:01
This is a wonderful story from beginning to end by an author who
obviously loves hobbits! Great story.

Title: More Than Just Years � Author: Llinos � Genres: Adventure:
Minas Tirith � ID: 362
Reviewer: grey_wonderer � 2007-12-01 03:13:18
This is filled with magic, not just Gandalf's sort of magic but the
magic that lives inside Pippin Took because he believes in it. I love
the way Gandalf looks after the hobbits as small children in this
story and the connection to that past and Pippin's lighting the
beacons in Minas Tirith. It's a story about over-coming fear and doing
something important but mostly this is about believing in magic!

Title: Mettare Duties � Author: Marta � Genres: Romance: Other
Fixed-Length Ficlet � ID: 647
Reviewer: Linda hoyland � 2007-12-01 03:16:16
A delightful glimpse of Faramir and Eowyn's life together in Ithilien
and the bond between them.

Title: Way Out West � Author: Pearl Took � Genres: Adventure: Pre-Ring
War � ID: 769
Reviewer: grey_wonderer � 2007-12-01 03:16:46
Full of surprises which I will not divulge here, this is a wonderful
story! I don't want to give anything away to those that have not read
it. Let's just say that Merry and Pippin have an adventure that later
turns out to be more than they were led to believe. The author does a
nice job of putting a surprise into this one.

Title: Sweet Memories � Author: PipMer � Races: Hobbits � ID: 272
Reviewer: grey_wonderer � 2007-12-01 03:21:41
This is full of very vivid images. The author paints the scene with
her words and lets us see the bank of the Brandywine where Frodo
Baggins is sitting lost in his memories of his parents. This is
bitter-sweet as you realize just how very much Frodo lost on the day
that his parents died. His memories of a childhood filled with love
are touched with the sadness that he had his parents with him for far
too short a time. The author's writing style makes the memories and
the present blend well and the last portion of the tale gives us a
small look at Frodo through Boromir's eyes. Very enjoyable!

Title: Surprises � Author: Tanaqui � Races: Hobbits: Drabble � ID: 690
Reviewer: grey_wonderer � 2007-12-01 03:24:32
Lovely drabble! I like the image of the tree blooming at just that
very time. I also like getting a surprise in a very short fiction.
This was very entertaining all around.

Title: Could Will Have Its Way � Author: Nancy Brooke � Races: Men:
Gondor Drabble � ID: 286
Reviewer: grey_wonderer � 2007-12-01 03:27:30
Indeed, how could anyone fail to at least look? I thought this was an
interesting glimpse into Denethor's reasoning and an entertaining drabble.

Title: Watching and Waiting � Author: Llinos � Genres: Poetry: With
Hobbits � ID: 796
Reviewer: grey_wonderer � 2007-12-01 03:31:12
I love this author's poems because they never fail to make me feel the
hopes of the characters. I think that is what good poetry does in
part. This is a two-fold poem with part from Pippin's point of view
and part from Merry's point of veiw. That style also makes the poem
more entertaining. The two halves compliment one another and fit
together perfectly. The poems remind me of Merry and Pippin's own long
friendship in that both halves are stronger together. A lovely poem
from a very talented author!

Title: A New Reckoning � Author: Dreamflower � Races: Cross-Cultural �
ID: 308
Reviewer: grey_wonderer � 2007-12-01 03:34:01
A long, lovely, story that I remember looking forward to each new
chapter of when it was first posted on Stories of Arda. This has some
excellent original characters in it and it lets the Hobbits of the
Shire interact with men and elves and dwarves while at home in the
Shire. Very entertaining all the way through!

Title: The Lady's Offer � Author: pippinfan88 � Genres: Drama: The
Fellowship � ID: 805
Reviewer: grey_wonderer � 2007-12-01 03:37:42
How would any of us react if offered something that meant so much to
us? Something that would remove guilt from us and would return a
friend to us? Something that would, perhaps help those around us if it
were so? I like the look at the choice offered here to Pippin by the
Lady as she looks into his mind and sees his heart. This author always
makes me think and she never fails to entertain me with her words and
her hobbits. I do love the way she writes Pippin! Excellent story!

Title: Circumstantial Heroes � Author: Gwynnyd � Genres: Drama: Minas
Tirith � ID: 684
Reviewer: Larner � 2007-12-01 03:38:51
Denethor had perfect servants--quick to anticipate what might be
needed, responding to orders quickly.

Hithdol, having seen the one they said was the King Returned working
amongst the wounded in the aftermath of the siege, set himself to
become one of Aragorn's personal servers, having decided this was the
kind of Man he wished to serve.

Now, which type do you think Aragorn would prefer to keep about him?

A most thought-provoking story worked around the considerations of
what needs to be done with Beregond of the Guard, and very, very well
worth the read.

Title: If You Should Die Before I Wake � Author: PipMer � Genres:
Drama: With Merry � ID: 277
Reviewer: grey_wonderer � 2007-12-01 03:45:04
This may have been the first story that I had read by this very
talented author. I do know that it is one of my favorites among her
stories. I like the way she writes Merry Brandybuck in this one. I
think it is difficult to imagine just how much Merry went through
while waiting to hear the outcome of the battle and then while waiting
for Frodo, Sam and Pippin to heal. His stress and his concern must
have been dreadful and almost more than he could tolerate. The author
gives us a look at this part of the tale focusing on Merry rather than
on the wounded hobbits around him. While Gandalf and Aragron try to
help Merry through this time of watching and waiting you can feel
Merry's pain as he sees his friends suffering and struggling to live.
This is very well done and I enjoyed every word of it! The author
should write more so we can all have more to enjoy.

Title: The Harper � Author: juno_magic � Times: Fourth Age and Beyond:
Gondor or Rohan � ID: 10
Reviewer: Marta � 2007-12-01 03:49:43
This is a charming story populated mostly by original characters but
yet still feels distinctly like Middle-earth. The narrator character
has a voice believable as that of a child from an isolated town, and
through her we get a rich glimpse at the world she inhabits, and at
the sole canon character. To say more about said sole canon character
would be to give too much away, and the surprise factor as this story
unfolds is part of what is so fun, so I will just say: if you like
original characters, give this one a try. I wasn't disappointed.

Title: Glimpses from Cormallen � Author: Marigold � Times: Late Third
Age: 3018-3022 TA: Other Fixed-Length Ficlet � ID: 614
Reviewer: grey_wonderer � 2007-12-01 03:50:55
((((("Thank you Merry. Meriadoc Brandybuck, Knight, Warrior,
Healer!"))))) That line from Pippin is one of my favorites from this
lovely set of drabbles about Pippin's healing in Cormallen. This
author spends too much time encouraging other writers and helping with
other author's work when she should be writing more of her own lovely
fiction. I love the way she writes Pippin as he heals and shows that
he is ever cheerful in the face of his injuries. She also has a lovely
bit in this set that shows how very much Gandalf cares for the injured
Pippin. I love every word of this and have read it time and again.

Title: Longing � Author: Larner � Times: Fourth Age and Beyond � ID: 468
Reviewer: grey_wonderer � 2007-12-01 03:52:46
Like all of this author's stories, you can see the research and the
thought that has gone into every single word of this as you read it.
She writes very well and every word rings true! I could hear this one
as I read it.

Title: Marbles � Author: grey_wonderer � Genres: Humor: Children � ID: 197
Reviewer: Aranel Took � 2007-12-01 03:57:48
This is such an adorable story! Poor Frodo, babysitting baby Pippin --
who is already an expert troublemaker -- and at wit's end over where
Merry's marbles ended up! And Merry's reactions are just priceless,
how he calls Pippin the ["evil, wicked baby"] and ['"He likes me
because he knows that I don't like him," Merry said. "He does it to
annoy me."'], but underneath he really does love Pippin. The boys are
so funny here, with Frodo's desperation, Sam's attempts at being
helpful, Merry's frustration -- ["Turn him upside down and shake him
until my marbles fall out of him, Sam," Merry instructed."] -- and
Pippin's utter cuteness. Luckily the Gaffer shows up with some advice
and a way to keep little Pippin under control.

Title: Through Shadows � Author: Marta � Times: Late Third Age:
3018-3022 TA: General Drabble � ID: 620
Reviewer: Aranel Took � 2007-12-01 04:07:34
I like the trust that Gimli shows here, because ["Frodo was no Elf,
nor even a Man"] and how he is so happy when Frodo is able to see the
crown. It says a lot about hobbits that even dwarves will trust to
show them their most valued treasures. A very nice moment between
Gimli and Frodo.

Title: There and Back � Author: Lindelea � Times: Late Third Age:
3018-3022 TA: Gondor � ID: 801
Reviewer: grey_wonderer � 2007-12-01 04:07:54
I really love this one! I like the way this weaves the lines from the
films into the story as Pippin heals. I love the way this author
writes and this is a wonderful tale. One of my favorite characters in
this is not a hobbit but Gimli the dwarf. I like this look at him as
he searches for Pippin and never quite gives up hope of finding the
hobbit on the field of battle, calling out his name after others are
certain that Pippin Took must be dead. Brilliant!

Title: Tea for Two � Author: pippinfan88 � Races: Hobbits: Children �
ID: 304
Reviewer: grey_wonderer � 2007-12-01 04:10:00
That is darling! I've seen and written my share of stories in which
Pervinca takes her frustration out on her new little brother, Pippin
because she is jealous but this is the first one that I have read that
shows exactly how difficult it must have been for Pervinca to adjust
to the new baby. I love Frodo to the rescue and the gentle way that he
makes her feel important. It was so much more effective than if
Paladin had reached her first. Simply wonderful all the way through!
You have to love a story that has Frodo come to the rescue!

Title: Respite � Author: Lindelea � Races: Men: Gondor Drabble � ID: 303
Reviewer: grey_wonderer � 2007-12-01 04:11:46
Lovely drabble and a nice look at Faramir and his desire to be more
than a soldier of Gondor.

Title: Cool Sunlight and Green Grass � Author: SlightlyTookish �
Races: Hobbits: Post-Ring War � ID: 211
Reviewer: grey_wonderer � 2007-12-01 04:14:51
A wonderful look at the joy that Hobbits take in the nature, sunlight,
green grass and being outdoors. I like Pippin's reaction to his first
walk outside after his long time in bed. Very well done!

Title: By Sorrow Unawares � Author: Pearl Took � Races: Hobbits:
Gapfiller � ID: 254
Reviewer: grey_wonderer � 2007-12-01 04:17:07
A very moving look at what Pippin must have felt after the company
lost Gandalf in the Mines of Moria. This author always writes from the
heart.

Title: An Unexpected Party � Author: Branwyn � Genres: Humor: Drabble
� ID: 16
Reviewer: Aranel Took � 2007-12-01 04:20:26
Very funny! Great job at working all of the dwarves and their
particular quirks into the drabble. I love Thorin's reaction at the
end and that it was Gandalf who sent the group for the interview.

Title: Helping Hands � Author: Llinos � Races: Hobbits: Drabble � ID: 615
Reviewer: grey_wonderer � 2007-12-01 04:22:54
Small moments and small acts of kindness that help friends and cousins
along in times of pain or grief. This is very well done. I especially
liked the look at Sam wanting to help Frodo and leaning over and
cutting up his food for him when he realizes how much of an effort
this is for Frodo. Sam does so in the way you might expect him to, he
is put out with himself for not thinking of it sooner! This is a very
lovely set of drabbles.

Title: Falling Into Shadow � Author: Marigold � Races: Cross-Cultural:
Incomplete � ID: 205
Reviewer: grey_wonderer � 2007-12-01 04:28:40
Three times�and the effects of the Black Breath are cumulative after
all. ***this is about Merry's struggle with the Black Breath but it is
also about his bond with his cousin, Pippin and Pippin's desire to
help him. I love this line, ("Is that all? There is nothing I would
not do for Merry." Peregrin looked as if he wished that there were a
handy dragon to slay on this kinsman's behalf.)
I love that line! So like Pippin to want to do whatever he can for
Merry. I like the way the author show Pippin's fears that he will be
unable to help while showing how determined he is to help. Loved it! i
do love the way this author writes hobbits!

Title: Point of View � Author: Tanaqui � Times: Fourth Age and Beyond:
Drabble � ID: 750
Reviewer: Aranel Took � 2007-12-01 04:37:59
An interesing look at how the Thain's Book could have come to be. It
makes sense that Aragorn would want the hobbits' point of view of
events, but Sam is too humble to realize the importance of the book.
At least Pippin realizes the importance of the hobbits and their
views! :-)

Title: The Company of Heroes � Author: annmarwalk � Races: Hobbits:
Children � ID: 393
Reviewer: Aranel Took � 2007-12-01 04:52:36
A moving story of Sam coming to terms with Boromir's part in
everything that happened through the innocent conversation of his
children. It makes sense that Sam would compare Boromir to Gollum in
order to reconcile himself to the idea that, like Gollum, Boromir's
actions while under the influence of the ring may have been necessary
to the success of the quest.

There were two parts to the December 1 Reviews; the second part was
accidentally marked as December 2, Part 1. I apologize for any
inconvenience.

Title: And We Will Travel North � Author: bewize � Times: Mid Third
Age: 2851 - 3017 TA: Drabble � ID: 39
Reviewer: Marta � 2007-12-01 05:48:36
[spoilers]

This is a fantastic idea, and one I hadn't thought of before: that
Elrohir and Elladan didn't just ride with the Northern Dunedain, but
that they actually *became* one of those people, at least for a
stretch of years. It's not that stretch of the imagination given that
they are only half-Elven, but the fact that it was love for Estel that
made them make this jump was truly touching, and a good way to add
substance to their part in LOTR.

Title: Lords of Gondor � Author: Linaewen � Genres: Alternate
Universe: Incomplete � ID: 154
Reviewer: Linda hoyland � 2007-12-01 06:01:57
An well written AU with some interesting Aragorn and Bororim
interaction and the chance for Aragorn to show his healing skills.

Title: In the Bloody Cottage � Author: Soubrettina � Races: Men:
Eriador or Rivendell � ID: 581
Reviewer: Imhiriel � 2007-12-01 11:20:41
Creative, effective style. The disjointed phrases and descriptions fit
very well with Gilren's weak, dazed condition, and mimick a close,
very intimate look into her thoughts.

Succinct, evocative descriptions of the environment. The love between
Gilraen and Arathorn is conveyed in crisp images and dialogues. I also
loved the description of Elrond.

The image of ["the daughters of the D�nedain"] as [" accidents of
matches bred to make mighty men"], and the passage following which
describes the consciousness of heritage and lineages, as well as the
price that comes from being D�nedain is a poignant and
thought-provoking, unusual angle.

Title: The Oarsman � Author: Tanaqui � Times: Late Third Age:
3018-3022 TA: Other Fixed-Length Ficlet � ID: 357
Reviewer: Imhiriel � 2007-12-01 11:21:30
The two very vivid drabbles form two bookends of a rarely-visited
episode during the WotR: Aragorn freeing the slaves on the oars of the
captured corsair ships.

Highly evocative descriptions: the sharp, bone-freezing cold, the
feeling of fear and despair, of bleakness and grueling work, is almost
viscerally conveyed in the first drabble. All the more relieving is it
to witness how in the second the chains are struck and food and warm
clothing are provided.

The emotions are conveyed very vividly - the numbness of the prisoners
because they can't afford to think or feel of anything beyond their
immediate tasks, much less afford to hope. This numbness that even
hinders much of an overt reaction to the Army of the Dead. And again,
in contrast, in the second drabble the readers can really feel the
gratefulness, almost worship, towards Aragorn, ending with a very
moving and lyrical last line.

Title: Well-Lettered (The Director's Cut) � Author: Ribby � Races:
Men: Other Fixed-Length Ficlet � ID: 762
Reviewer: Imhiriel � 2007-12-01 11:22:07
This captures very well Faramir's scholarly side. The readers can
really sense his love for the things he will find in the library,
material books themselves as well as the immaterial knowledge to be
found therein, how it is almost a compelling urge, a *need* for him,
just like other day-to-day necessities of life.

It also neatly emphasises that Aragorn, too, has his scholarly side,
as evidenced by his imparting past and present historical knowledge at
the drop of a hat during the trilogy.

What a wonderful place and occupation for King and Steward to begin
forming a basis for so much more than an amicable working
relationship, to really find in each other kindred spirits who not
only have Gondor's welfare at heart, but also share personal interests.

Title: A Pirate's Life for Me! � Author: Raksha the Demon � Races:
Men: Other Fixed-Length Ficlet � ID: 438
Reviewer: Imhiriel � 2007-12-01 11:23:04
The story is written in a very entertaining, expansive style, like a
play � la Gilbert & Sullivan? *g* - or like a tale told to children
right before their bed time.

It is amusing to think (but very plausible, I imagine) that
Thorongil's exploits would quickly become the stuff of legends
children would want to hear and re-enact, especially considering the
mystery surrounding him.

The interaction between the adults and the children was sweet, and I
liked Faramir as the linking factor to show important relationships in
two different stages of his life.

Title: Fun with Farm'n � Author: S�lriel � Races: Villains: Drabble �
ID: 269
Reviewer: Imhiriel � 2007-12-01 11:23:46
Ouch! This is a wonderfully twisted drabble. At the same time the
readers are shocked by the gruesomeness revealed at the end, with even
more to follow after that, they will be able to laugh at the dark,
dark humour the double entendre of the dialogue provides. I don't
think this familiar saying has ever been meant in quite that way before...

The ambiguity of the employed language is also very effective in the
rest of the drabble, and it was a new discovery to re-read it with the
knowledge of the correct interpretation in mind.

The characterisation of the Orcs was well-done; the corrupted, vulgar
language, the insults which seem to come par for the course. I
particularly liked the glee of Ugbuz at his own pun and his suggestion
to his "comrade".

Title: Green � Author: annmarwalk � Times: Late Third Age: 3018-3022
TA: Gondor Drabble � ID: 461
Reviewer: Imhiriel � 2007-12-01 11:24:18
Very effective use of the sense of smell. The scene the drabble
depicts is evoked very clearly and tangibly even without describing
what might be visible.

The first half, which shows Faramir re-living his last
(semi-)conscious memories of the pryre, strenghtens in its stark
contrast the impact of the wholesomeness of the pure and untainted
athelas.

Beautiful description of athelas, a real "bouquet" of scents and smells.

Lovely last line, which captures, I think, Faramir's spirit and faith
very well: recognising what kingsfoil represents - which "the hands of
the king" make effective - without prior knowledge or proof.

Title: Waste Not, Want Not � Author: Tanaqui � Races: Villains:
Drabble � ID: 722
Reviewer: Imhiriel � 2007-12-01 11:25:05
A fascinating if gruesome gapfiller.

I particularly liked the detail of the ["dead hands clawing the
grass"]. Coupled with the lazy indifference and callous treatment of
the Orc dragging the body, this was a very poignant reminder that he
is handling a once living, breathing soldier of Gondor.

The businesslike processing of the body seen here vividly brings home
the fact that this is just one example of many, many more that end up
in this way.

The punch line was perfectly timed, the way the last few words came so
completely without warning, in the unobtrusive, calm tone of a
descriptive passage. I really had to do a double take to really take
in the meaning.

Title: Aftershocks � Author: Gwynnyd � Times: Second Age: Drabble �
ID: 504
Reviewer: Imhiriel � 2007-12-01 11:25:54
An unusual perspective on the Downfall of N�menor - looking at what
the great wave that drowned the Star Isle did on the *other* side of
the Great Sea, on the shores of Middle-earth.

The details of the destruction of the harbour town is conveyed in
vivid, effective details which really drive home the enormous
consequences of the cataclysm that swallowed N�menor.

The anxiety of the Lord of Cobas because he cares for his people is
palpable; and I love how you have even alluded to the potential
political repercussion he must fear should he not be able to collect
the tribute of power-hungry and greedy late N�menor.

The shortness of ["The sea stayed empty for months."] conveys well the
uncertainty of their situation when no news was forthcoming, no
explanation for the destructive tidal wave.

Excellent, resonating ending, and Elendil seems a fully-fleshed
character despite his brief appearance. I like his choice of address
towards the Lord of Cobas.

Title: From the Sea � Author: Ford of Bruinen � Times: First Age and
Prior: House of Fingolfin � ID: 113
Reviewer: Imhiriel � 2007-12-01 11:26:21
Lush descriptions, fitting perfectly to the picture of Gondolin as a
rich, opulent, sophisticated city that Tuor sees.

All the more poignant was the single allusion that perhaps beneath all
the glory there might be just as much despair as he knows from his own
upbringing in rough environments, and Idril's explanation seems very
plausible.

Tuor's being instantly smitten by Idril is conveyed very vividly.

Title: Building the Future � Author: Tanaqui � Times: Mid Third Age:
2851 - 3017 TA: Other Fixed-Length Ficlet � ID: 644
Reviewer: Imhiriel � 2007-12-01 11:27:33
This series paints in a few skilful strokes a picture of Dale's
recovery and Bard's struggles as he assumes the unaccustomed role of
King. In his discomfort of formality and his longing memories of past
days when he was only a simple bowman, he reminds me of Aragorn (or
how he is often depicted going from Ranger to King), and I find this
interpretation very believable.

Bard is lucky that he doesn't have to agree to a marriage of state,
but finds the woman of his heart who is willing to help him in his duties.

Title: Answers and Questions � Author: Peredhil lover � Genres: Drama:
Youth � ID: 189
Reviewer: Bodkin � 2007-12-01 14:55:13
Tough - on the twins and Estel. But Elrohir does a pretty good job of
explaining why Elladan attempts to hold himself aloof - and why he
expects Estel to learn to be the very best he can possibly be. But I
suspect Elladan will have a bit of difficulty reconciling himself to
his sister's way of dealing with their dilemma.

Title: Fell Memories � Author: Gwynnyd � Genres: Drama: Other
Fixed-Length Ficlet � ID: 191
Reviewer: Bodkin � 2007-12-01 15:01:28
This is a grippingly horrifying tale. Poor Aragorn - he certainly
learns the hard way just how ... unforgiving orcish captors can be.
(It's not surprising he later takes Gimli and Legolas off in pursuit
of the hobbits.) Good thing he got away. And ended up where he did.


Title: Rekindling � Author: Tanaqui � Races: Men: General Drabble �
ID: 688
Reviewer: Bodkin � 2007-12-01 15:04:00
This is the Uncle Theoden loved and respected by Eowyn and Eomer. And
no wonder.

Title: Gifts � Author: Acacea � Genres: Humor: Other Fixed-Length
Ficlet � ID: 500
Reviewer: Bodkin � 2007-12-01 15:08:50
Well - Denethor never did care much for Mithrandir! I can just see
Faramir chewing contemplatively on the end of a pipe. Now all he needs
is some soapy water and he could invent bubble-blowing. I like a more
humane Denethor - and I suspect he would have made Faramir a
reasonably good parent ... under other circumstances.

Title: Go Out in Joy � Author: Larner � Genres: Alternate Universe:
The Shire or Buckland � ID: 145
Reviewer: Bodkin � 2007-12-01 15:14:14
Frodo can't fade into obscurity in this version of events, can he?
Between the number of those who came to honour him and the stories
they tell, word will spread from Hobbiton to fill the Shire. Even if
some find it difficult to credit, they will have heard it.

It might change people's perception of Sam, too. They now know that he
is a Lord of the Free Peoples - whatever that might mean - and is
honoured by the King as well as the Men, Elves and Dwarves who have
come among them. They can see that he is honoured over Merry and
Pippin - and that they are honoured themselves.

I wonder if Frodo would have liked that... Maybe. He didn't think Sam
took enough honour to himself. But he would probably have preferred
that the Shire remained ignorant of what had occurred Out There.

And a most happy reunion to finish the tale.

Title: Mettare � Author: rhyselle � Races: Cross-Cultural: The
Fellowship � ID: 732
Reviewer: Bodkin � 2007-12-01 15:16:57
Poor Boromir - longing for home and family and feeling rather a fish
out of water. Teaching this custom to Pippin and Merry must have
helped ... and increased his affection for these two. I like to think
of the candle floating down the Bruinen in its parchment boat.

Title: Resurrection � Author: Dwimordene � Genres: Alternate Universe
� ID: 265
Reviewer: Bodkin � 2007-12-01 15:24:57
How delightful to have Halbarad edge back from the borders of death -
to stand by a different grey-cloaked figure, and see, at last, the
dreams of the Dunedain become reality.

Title: Burden of Guilt � Author: Linda hoyland � Races: Men � ID: 123
Reviewer: Bodkin � 2007-12-01 15:30:42
Such a complex story - of people learning who they are and how to deal
with each other. With, of course, plenty of difficulties and
distractions along the way!! The light-hearted beginning was -
obviously - a deception ... there was no way that our heroes would get
away with it. But, oh my - poor Faramir. He does seem to have VICTIM
tattooed on his forehead. And accept that that is his place in life!
And the end is a mere breather - before the next storms hit.

Title: Behind Every Great Man... � Author: annmarwalk � Times: Mid
Third Age: 2851 - 3017 TA: Drabble � ID: 52
Reviewer: Bodkin � 2007-12-01 15:32:51
Goodness - Denethor is in serious need of Mormegil - to play Bunter to
his Lord Peter. You can't help but wonder how much of what is achieved
in the world is a direct result of the hired help!

Title: Standards � Author: Marta � Times: Late Third Age: 3018-3022
TA: General Drabble � ID: 541
Reviewer: Bodkin � 2007-12-01 15:34:44
His Queen, huh? Well, at least he knew how he wanted events to turn
out. As he was handed his carefully-crafted death warrant.

Title: True Silver � Author: Marta � Genres: Romance: Drabble � ID: 612
Reviewer: Bodkin � 2007-12-01 15:38:19
Binding her hair with his - that is a delightful vision. And, even if
she still liked the odd jewel (and why shouldn't she) a positively
professional flirtation technique!

Title: Merry's Grandmother � Author: grey_wonderer � Races: Hobbits:
Pre-Quest � ID: 137
Reviewer: Bodkin � 2007-12-01 15:41:24
I love the story of Merry, his Grandmother and the crystal. She sounds
a tough - and very interesting - grandmother. Yet another very
entertaining story from you!



Title: Remembering Anew � Author: Pearl Took � Times: Fourth Age and
Beyond � ID: 88
Reviewer: Bodkin � 2007-12-01 15:48:19
I'm glad old Pompous regained his marbles. And found himself with
enough time to restore honour to the name of Brandybuck! And the
Merciful is a much better way to be remembered. (Alliterative, too!)

And young Mac married a Caskbury! You could say his ancestors were
turning in their graves - except they don't bother to stay in them in
the first place ... and, of course, that they are broad-minded and
open-hearted enough not to judge on what is now distant ancestry!

A nice fresh start - with green-eyed Tooks around to keep an eye on
things. I love the subtle appearance of she-whose-name-I-cannot-spell
to rescue Rollo and Mungo. While organising the celebrations seems a
suitable penance - and acknowledgement of the truth.

The delivery of the bells seems a fitting finish ... and it would be
nice if the babies both had bright green eyes.

This is a most entertaining story - and it's definitely a relief (or
something) to know that the four Travellers are perfectly capable of
keeping an eye on their descendants - and others - and intervening
even long after they have - for want of a better word - gone to
pastures new.

Title: Celeborn's Trees � Author: Isabeau of Greenlea � Races: Elves:
Fixed-Length Ficlet � ID: 514
Reviewer: Bodkin � 2007-12-01 15:53:42
And then he took her Noldor relatives out into the woods and left them
where the bears could eat them.

Celeborn strikes me as an elf who is very aware of his own value - and
Galadriel chose him and he and all the easily-spared kin know it, too.
A lovely piece.

Title: Reunion � Author: Larner � Genres: Drama � ID: 727
Reviewer: Bodkin � 2007-12-01 16:00:19
Poor Sam. At least, I suppose, he had just enough time to realise that
Rose was failing. It would have been a dreadful shock to him if she
hadn't put the idea in his head. I don't think his children and
grandchildren were too excited at the idea of his swanning off to the
Havens, though. Elanor understood the most, but they didn't really
want to let him go - and that would have been a shame. They all needed
the interlude, I think. Although Frodo and Sam were sadly missed by
all those they left behind, whether in the Shire, in Gondor, or in Tol
Eressea.



Title: Knave of Hearts � Author: grey_wonderer � Genres: Humor:
Children � ID: 252
Reviewer: Bodkin � 2007-12-01 16:04:43
Merry always had a cynical understanding of his little cousin's
tricksiness. Even if he denied being shrewd! But Saradoc's got
Pippin's number - even if he does let him slip away.

The torment, though, of putting Frodo, Merry and Pippin in a room with
jam tarts and then telling them not to eat any! I'm not surprised at
all that it ended in general mayhem and stickiness.

I love Pippin's bells. Just such a sweet picture. I think they might
be my favourite addition to your tales. Well, the bells and Erroll.
The bells, Erroll and the sheep. So hard to choose!


Title: Merry's Wedding � Author: Larner � Races: Hobbits: Pre-Quest �
ID: 84
Reviewer: Bodkin � 2007-12-01 16:09:46
This is a delightful story - I love the way that the family conspired
to make Merry's first wedding to Estella as memorable as his second.
And, in retrospect, this version of events would possibly have been
even more treasured by those who loved Frodo, who didn't manage to
make it to Merry's rather more official wedding. Maybe Merry was able
to view the second wedding as more along the lines of renewing his vows!


Title: Healing Lessons � Author: Pearl Took � Races: Cross-Cultural:
With Pippin � ID: 296
Reviewer: Bodkin � 2007-12-01 16:13:16
This is a beautiful story, Pearl! I love Gimli stories - and the idea
of his shifty secretiveness about bringing help to poor Pippin is
delightful. What is more, I do like young healer Parsow. It is a
pleasure to find someone who is broad-minded enough to try out
techniques that must seem rather strange and alien to him.

Three cheers for the dwarves - and I thoroughly approve of Pippin's
perception that dwarves have both wisdom and intelligence.


Title: Three Things About Pippin � Author: grey_wonderer � Genres:
Humor: Children � ID: 133
Reviewer: Bodkin � 2007-12-01 16:18:07
Cunning work from Mr. Frodo Baggins there. Which the author recognised
and appreciated - and recorded for posterity.

Still, for all his good qualities, living with Pippin must have been
an endurance test for his older sisters. An experience that probably
made them more than adequate opponents for any available Ruffians, though!

Title: Observations � Author: grey_wonderer � Races: Hobbits: Children
� ID: 204
Reviewer: Bodkin � 2007-12-01 16:21:21
How delightfully literal of Merry! And yet - living your life as if
your most devoted admirer is watching you must have been hard at times
... but what better way of ensuring that you never compromise your
standards! Saradoc is a great hobbit - with a fantastic son. Esmeralda
must have been so proud of the pair of them. What a lovely story.


Title: Charms of Wisdom and Grace � Author: annmarwalk � Genres:
Drama: Ithilien � ID: 460
Reviewer: Bodkin � 2007-12-01 16:24:43
What a lovely Faramir! Not one who needs show - he would rather gift
his sone with something made with love than with all the crafted steel
and cut gems he doubtless stores in his vaults. A man who knows what
matters.

Title: The Land of Gift � Author: Maeve Riannon � Times: First Age and
Prior: House of Fingolfin � ID: 108
Reviewer: Marta � 2007-12-01 16:50:11
[spoilers]

What first captured my fancy about this story was the truly unique
spin it gives on canonical characters and events. Tuor and Idril are
two of my favorite First Age characters, and Numenor likewise holds a
special place in my heart, but I would have never thought to connect
the two. Yet the author does so convincingly here, in a moody piece
that leaves the reader thinking and also affected emotionally on some
level that is hard to identify. For a piece as short as it is, it
packs a lot of punch - just what I love. Nice work, Maeve.

Title: Cool Sunlight and Green Grass � Author: SlightlyTookish �
Races: Hobbits: Post-Ring War � ID: 211
Reviewer: Pearl Took � 2007-12-02 00:56:47
I love when much is said in few words and that is the case with this
story. It deals with hurt and wonder and joy. It deals with the
essence of being alive when you thought all was lost.

It makes me smile!

A wonderful story, SlightlyTookish!

Title: Beneath a Gibbous Moon � Author: Bodkin � Races: Cross-Cultural
� ID: 4
Reviewer: Linda hoyland � 2007-12-02 01:01:15
A beautifully atmospheric story which crossed the ages of friendship
between Men and Elves.

I loved the imagery of the moon and stars and the way Man and Elf
support and encourage each other.

Very well written.

Title: Fell Beasts � Author: Tanaqui � Races: Villains: Drabble � ID: 403
Reviewer: stefaniab � 2007-12-02 02:09:49
The drabble Fell Beasts vividly describes the creatures who haunted
Frodo and terrorized Minas Tirith during its siege. Tanaqui succinctly
characterizes these demons and fills a gap in regard to their origin.

Title: Duty Bound � Author: Bodkin � Genres: Romance: Pre-Ring War �
ID: 212
Reviewer: Pearl Took � 2007-12-02 02:14:41
This is an elegant story of something that might well have been. The
Fellowship are getting to know one another and Pippin asks Boromir if
he is married. From there issues a marvelous, tender and sad tale. It
could have happened just this way.

Bodkin weaves a stunning story well worth any readers time.

Title: Magical Mystical Cave � Author: Lily � Races: Hobbits: Children
� ID: 213
Reviewer: Pearl Took � 2007-12-02 02:15:27
The wonder. The danger! A grand adventure for Frodo and Merry
skillfully told by Lily. There are clues sprinkled through the
narrative, but the real story is saved for later, much to the readers
delight. An exciting and fun story that I heartily recomend!

Most Excellently Well Done, Lily!

Title: Dragon Lore � Author: Tanaqui � Races: Villains: Drabble � ID: 404
Reviewer: stefaniab � 2007-12-02 02:16:03
Like its companion piece, "Dragon Lore" efficiently fills a gap on the
origin of Morgoth's evil creatures, in this case dragons. With lovely
language, Tanaqui's drabble describes how Morgoth tried to corrupt
eagles into serving him. Few took his bait; however, a spiteful few did.

Title: Glimpse of Glory � Author: Linda hoyland � Times: Late Third
Age: 3018-3022 TA: General Drabble � ID: 575
Reviewer: Bodkin � 2007-12-02 06:59:23
Good thing she saw through the temptation! Victory in humility. A
central theme? Maybe.

Title: A Queen Among Farmers' Wives � Author: Imhiriel � Genres:
Humor: Drabble � ID: 635
Reviewer: Bodkin � 2007-12-02 07:05:34
Well now! That is simply a perfectly justifiable reaction to having
your husband come home a) drunk and b) burbling Tom Bombadillo-style
nonsense. Blunt instrument applied to cranium - and perhaps the
outcome will be no more bad versifying!

Title: In the Bleak, Cold Winter � Author: GamgeeFest � Races:
Hobbits: Pre-Quest � ID: 493
Reviewer: Bodkin � 2007-12-02 07:12:30
It was good to see Merry's relationship with Sam begin its recovery.
It will - eventually - be rather important that they trust each other,
I think. And Merry and Willow's relationship will probably do the
rather self-assured young gentlehobbit some good. Especially as it
won't be too easy for them to get together! (And courting her will
probably make Merry much more understanding of strong lasses and be a
benefit to Estella in the future!)

Everything has settled down - for a while, anyway. Sam's determination
to keep his place is perhaps a bit of a pose - the difference between
Sam and Furzy when it comes to dealing with gentlehobbits is
noticeable! Sam is closer to friendship with them - and closer to
becoming the kind of hobbit who could manage outside the Shire. Not to
mention the kind of hobbit who would become Mayor. (Blame it all on Mr
Bilbo!)


Title: Don't Be Deceived � Author: Imhiriel � Genres: Humor: Other
Fixed-Length Ficlet � ID: 351
Reviewer: Bodkin � 2007-12-02 07:15:55
Oh, very clever! I like bouncy young Estel picking up tips on how to
sit in the corner of an inn and brood dangerously. Not to mention the
lesson in people not always being what he might assume at first
glance. I never thought of him as basing his ranger-persona on King
Bard - but why not! Their lives certainly have parallels.

Title: Poking The Badger � Author: grey_wonderer � Genres: Humor: The
Shire or Buckland � ID: 209
Reviewer: Bodkin � 2007-12-02 07:17:22
I love the title! And Pippin's mental image of dressing a badger in
Merry's weskit. Not to mention Merry's indignation that Pippin is
sitting quietly and not ... badgering him into revealing all his
frustrations. The wrestling story is great, too. But Pippin's genuine
understanding of the whole problem is probably the thing that calms
Merry down. Even if his enjoyment of his new size is going to irritate
his cousin. Another really great episode.


Title: Fell and Fair � Author: Elena Tiriel � Genres: Adventure:
Fixed-Length Ficlet � ID: 526
Reviewer: Bodkin � 2007-12-02 07:28:24
This is a beautiful example of how you can tell a coherent story very
powerfully in a series of short pieces - it is elegantly written and
extremely effective. I love both the overall story, tracing the
history of the sons of Elrond across the years from Celebrian's
departure until their own decision to go, and seeing them from the
point of view of so many diffferent characters. Excellent.

Title: Knowing � Author: rhyselle � Genres: Drama: Elves in Later Ages
� ID: 765
Reviewer: Raksha the Demon � 2007-12-02 07:42:35
A rather nifty twist on the relationship of Glorfindel and the sons of
Elrond; rooted in the mysteries of the Halls of Mandos and the tragic
fate of two other twin descendants of Luthien and Beren. I love the
ending!

Title: Transformation � Author: Imhiriel � Races: Men: General Drabble
� ID: 185
Reviewer: dkpalaska � 2007-12-02 08:13:25
Such a wonderful, delightful drabble that goes far beyond the lovely
subject matter perched in the rigging...

What I think this drabble captures so completely for me is the sense
of giddiness that would follow the overthrow of Sauron. It's hard for
me to comprehend the horror and oppression of those times, sitting
safely in my home, but the people of Gondor had lived with it for
generations upon generations. Such a burden, a pressure that weighed
on their lives; and then, when the final end of all they knew seemed
upon them - sudden relief!

Even beyond that: the King Returned! And such a King! To say that
there was joy in the streets would be a vast understatement. Not that
there wasn't a tremendous amount of work and rebuilding to be done,
but now it could be accomplished with their sights set on an actual
future.

That's rather a long way of saying that this image of regal Imrahil,
lordly manner and garb temporarily tossed aside, works so well for me
because of all the underlying emotion that it conjures. Added to that,
Imhiriel makes her usual beautiful and creative use of canon (King's
practical gifting of the Corsair ships) and showers us with gorgeous
descriptions. I love the use of present tense, as it draws me right
into the scene - definitely an enviable place to be. *g*

Title: The Treasure Hunt � Author: Jay of Lasgalen � Races: Elves �
ID: 320
Reviewer: Fiondil � 2007-12-02 09:56:09
Elladan and Elrohir are anxiously awaiting the return of their parents
from Lothl�rien and driving Erestor to distraction. In a thoughtless
moment the elf realizes he may have made a mistake and calls on
Glorfindel to the rescue. Any story with Glorfindel in it is worth
reading. I like how the intrepid Balrog Slayer convinces the twins to
play a game of treasure hunt, leaving gnomic verses as clues, several
taken from "The Hobbit" but the rest taken from other sources, yet all
authentic. I had to laugh at the idea of Glorfindel hastily writing
out the verses and coming up with a plan that would lure to twins to
["their heart's desire"]. Erestor's put-upon demeanor was also nicely
portrayed. As much as he might grumble and act the stern
administrator, you sense that beneath that gruff exterior, he holds a
soft spot for the twins in his heart. Nicely done, Jay.

Hey guys,

I've posted a new message at the mefa-discussion Yahoo group, talking
about how we'll get banners ready for the winning authors. Please
comment over there if this is a topic that interests you.

Marta

Title: Winds of Change � Author: Lady Bluejay � Genres: Romance: With
Rohirrim � ID: 228
Reviewer: rhyselle � 2007-12-02 20:11:53
This is the best of the 'Eomer and Lothiriel meet' fics I've ever
read. It is unabashedly romantic without being mushy, and, best of
all, is entirely from Eomer's point of view. He deals with a multitude
of emotional issues in a short span of time--eight days--including
coming to terms with unexpectedly becoming king, mourning the death of
his uncle and the Riders who fell on the Pelennor, and his instant
attraction to the dark haired Princess of Dol Amroth. The wording of
the tale lets the reader fall into sympathy with Eomer as he prepares
to return to Edoras to face the challenges waiting there, and, in
particular his deep desire to have a wife choose him for himself, and
not because he has been elevated to the Royal position he now holds.

The interpretation of Lothiriel suits my perceptions of Gondorian
nobility, but she has the added touch of someone who is slightly
unconventional for her rank--not wanting to be shoved into a political
match; like Eomer, she seeks to be chosen for herself and not for her
rank.

Uniquely, in contrast to many romance fics, Eomer's interactions are
with many supporting characters and not just with the lady who wins
his heart. From the future head of Eomer's Royal Guard who chooses a
hot-headed horse when he has to replace a mount lost in battle, to
Lothiriel's brothers who are quite amusing each in their own way, to
the 'new' Eowyn whom Eomer barely recognizes as she recreates herself
by taking on some Gondorian trappings and makes it plain that it is
Faramir she wants and Faramir she will have, Lady Bluejay has created
a believable and enjoyable work that I feel makes up a wonderful
'missing moment' in canon.

I hope that she will re-visit Eomer and Lothiriel in the future,
showing us some of their lives in the Riddermark, as their love
develops and grows. I highly recommend this story!

Title: Temptation � Author: Linda hoyland � Times: Mid Third Age: 2851
- 3017 TA: Other Fixed-Length Ficlet � ID: 419
Reviewer: obsidianj � 2007-12-02 21:06:24
[spoilers]
The temptation in this ficlet is a tavern wench thrown at Thorongil by
her master. He might like to receive some pleasure, but not like this.
He wants to have Arwen. I like the picture of the dingy tavern in
Umbar you paint with just a few words. It came to life in my head as a
place I would try to avoid at all cost.

Title: Keeper of the Jewels � Author: Cuthalion � Genres: Adventure:
Minas Tirith � ID: 64
Reviewer: obsidianj � 2007-12-02 21:07:03
Not everybody could be happy that Gondor has a king again. This story
explores a plot to destroy the king by using the king's friends, the
hobbits. As is typical for men, they underestimate hobbits in general
and here the Ringbearer especially. The characters come to life in
this tale. I especially like the OC Artanis, the way she grows
throughout the story. Her interaction with Frodo is great.

Title: Calm after the Storm � Author: Imhiriel � Genres: Adventure:
Fixed-Length Ficlet � ID: 350
Reviewer: obsidianj � 2007-12-02 21:08:06
This glimpse into the aftermath of a fight with the corsairs paints a
vivid picture of glaring sun and hot oppressive heat. I envy Imrahil
his chance of diving into the sea.

Title: Bitter Springs � Author: Dwimordene � Times: Mid Third Age:
2851 - 3017 TA � ID: 634
Reviewer: obsidianj � 2007-12-02 21:11:31
That was a bitter spring. It was telling for the situation that
Theodred and Boromir had to sneak out and speak in vague terms about
their needs and the political situation they are in. I liked the
interaction between these two friends. They know each other well
enough to read between the lines of what is said.

I never really thought about Theodred's position in all this. He made
such a short appearance in the books, basically just dying. He is in
this tale in no better a position than his cousins, watching Theoden
fall under the spell of Grima, but after reading this I got the
feeling it was even harder for him. It was his father, after all, that
he watched decline and was unable to prevent it, not his uncle.

Title: A Little Nudge Out the Door � Author: Jocelyn � Genres:
Adventure: Pre-Ring War � ID: 823
Reviewer: obsidianj � 2007-12-02 21:13:07
This is a story of Legolas growing up and coming into his own. I like
the way the rocky relationship between Thranduil and Legolas is shown.
A father who, because of earlier losses, is overprotective of his
youngest and tries to keep him home as long as possible aided by the
darkening times, and a son who for a long time does his fathers
bidding unquestioningly until the inevitable happens. Legolas wants to
see the world and rebells against his fathers wishes. Gandalf, as
usual, is there in the right time at the right place, or not. That
depends on your point of view. Because of his sheltered upbringing
Legolas faces some unique challenges when he goes out into the world.
I love the way all the races, elves, dwarves, men, are depicted as
individuals with their own unique characteristics. Not all dwarves are
greedy, not all men are bandits, not all elves are angels. But it
takes some getting to know them to see past the prejudices.

Title: Charcoal, Stone and Cloud � Author: shadow975 � Races: Men �
ID: 610
Reviewer: obsidianj � 2007-12-02 21:14:39
[spoilers]
I love this little story. The interaction between Boromir and Aragorn
seems so natural. They haven't solved all issues, but they came a long
way from the Council of Elrond to this place. Aragorn shows his trust
in Boromir by telling him of his previous visit to Gondor, and Boromir
can by now accept Aragorn's claim without being hostile or outright
contemptuous toward the other man. Over the course of this quest they
got to know and respect each other. I love the little personal touches
of Boromir collecting pebbles and the cloud gazing game Boromir
learned from Faramir and that Aragorn also enjoys.

Title: Taking Leave � Author: Soubrettina � Times: Fourth Age and
Beyond: Gondor or Rohan � ID: 326
Reviewer: obsidianj � 2007-12-02 21:15:36
[spoilers]
This is a sobering, but in the end still uplifting story. Eowyn takes
her leave from all her friends before she dies. But in not as active a
form as it sounds here. She is dying slowly and is in the end very
weak. Her family and friends gather around her in her last days. I
haven't seen anyone dying in this way, but it seemed to me a very
realistic way of 'fading.' At one point she is just gone in her
sleep.I like the way the grief and reactions of Faramir, Aragorn and
Arwen are depicted.

Title: Of Difficulties and Delicate Situations � Author: Garnet Took �
Races: Hobbits: Post-Grey Havens � ID: 255
Reviewer: obsidianj � 2007-12-02 21:16:47
[spoilers]
In this amusing tale or not so amusing if you were Pippin and Diamond
Took, they visit Aragorn in Gondor and while they are there, ask him
and Arwen for help regarding their future offspring, which doesn't
want to show up. I like the way Pippin goes about asking Aragorn for
help and the way Aragorn handles this delicate situation.

Title: All that is gold... � Author: Perelleth � Genres: Humor:
Children � ID: 42
Reviewer: obsidianj � 2007-12-02 21:17:55
[spoilers]
This is a charming tale around the famous line of the poem Bilbo wrote
for Aragorn. Bilbo and Estel have a clandestine meeting in the middle
of the night on the stairs of the Last Homely House. They both are
supposed to be in bed and they shouldn't meet at all, but they do. The
ensuing conversation between them teaches Estel an important lesson
and lays the foundation for the friendship between the two of them. I
like the description of the boy Estel and the way Bilbo handles the
encounter. It sounds very natural for a curious 11-year-old coming
across one of the guests he is not supposed to meet. And Bilbo is just
Bilbo ;-).

Title: Letting Go � Author: SlightlyTookish � Races: Hobbits:
Post-Ring War � ID: 230
Reviewer: obsidianj � 2007-12-02 21:19:09
There is a big hole in Tolkien about the repercussions of Pippin and
Merry coming back after the quest and being reunited with their
families. This story looks through the eyes of Pippin's father at his
suddenly grown up son after the quest. He last remembered the
mischievous tween and now here is a mature young hobbit who literally
grew out of all his clothes and his life. Paladin and his wife have a
hard time understanding their son, which is understandable. The
experiences of the travelers are far outside any hobbit horizon and
imagination. I like the way the confusion and helplessness of the
parents is depicted. Only after Paladin eavesdrops on one of Pippin's
nightmares does he get an inkling of what his son is going through. I
love the father/son conversation at the end, where they don't say
much, but come to a silent understanding and Paladin lets his son go.

Title: Graceful and Green � Author: Alawa � Genres: Drama: Ithilien �
ID: 62
Reviewer: Marta � 2007-12-02 21:50:48
[spoilers]

This is a truly marvellous story of redemption and moving on. The
early scenes about Sam learning to let go of his protective concern
for Frodo's well being were touching, and Mablung was well-drawn as a
common "man-of-arms" who had to step into a role of leadership that he
never expected. I imagine there were lots of men like this in Gondor
after the Ring-War, as so many Gondorian lords died in the many
battles and new heroes were singled out for their bravery in that
conflict. This was a situation I hadn't seen examined before, and
Alawa does it nicely. I also liked Frodo's perceptiveness (and Sam's!)
that these men needed the gift of the Lady's phial as much as Frodo
and Sam did. That was a great interpretation of how light is used in
Tolkien's Middle-earth.

But the part of this story that really captured my heart was how you
handled Sam. Too many authors make him a yokel or a simpleton, and
while you give him a touch of the rural and poorer dialect we see in
Tolkien, as a character he comes across as someone very capable, not
just of serving the landed gentry but of thinking for himself. My
interpretation of Sam is more in keeping with how you present him
here, and so I was just tickled to see how perceptive he was, and how
eloquent he was in explaining his thoughts - and also, by how Mablung
and the other Gondorians treated him with respect and heard him out. A
really nice job, Alawa.

Title: Charms of Wisdom and Grace � Author: annmarwalk � Genres:
Drama: Ithilien � ID: 460
Reviewer: Marta � 2007-12-02 22:29:09
Very evocative scene, Ann. I don't know the first thing about this
craft, but I loved the image of Faramir learning it first in secret as
a boy, then revealing this hidden talent to his wife and using it to
give comfort to his son. A very cozy family scene; I recommend it to
all Faramir lovers.

Title: The Harper � Author: juno_magic � Times: Fourth Age and Beyond:
Gondor or Rohan � ID: 10
Reviewer: Aranel Took � 2007-12-03 00:46:41
It's been a while since I first read this story, and since then I've
come to know the narrator much better (in fact, I adore Tally to bits)
in Juno's other stories and it was nice to revisit this important
event in his childhood.

It is easy to tell this is a bard's tale by the lyrical voice of the
narrator, the repetition of phrases and the details that come together
to build a picture of his world. And through him we come to know the
Harper, who carries sadness and bitterness and doesn't even enjoy the
beautiful songs he sings. He is horribly scarred and ugly, but the
narrator sees past his ugliness and knows--even as a child--that the
Harper is special. The narrator is a persistent child, and not only in
his questions, and when he decides he wants the Harper to teach him
the craft, the Harper gives in.

The story weaves a bit of mystery throughout, as to the identity of
the Harper. The ending probably has more impact for a reader who is
much more familiar than me with ['The Silmarillion'], but I enjoyed
very much how the reveal was made, the narrator asking a
youngster--questioning the narrator much as the narrator had once did
at the Harper's knees--who the identity of the Harper is, leading the
reader to ponder the question for themselves.

Title: Gifts � Author: Acacea � Genres: Humor: Other Fixed-Length
Ficlet � ID: 500
Reviewer: Elen Kortirion � 2007-12-03 01:41:46
A delightful view of the haressed father beginning to find out 'what
all the fuss is about' when it comes to looking after small children!
And a very nice touch is Denethor's almost gleeful, to paraphrase the
story - you can have that, it came from Mithrandir - that made me chuckle.

Title: Shadows of the Past � Author: Marta � Genres: Drama: General
Drabble � ID: 331
Reviewer: Elen Kortirion � 2007-12-03 01:47:26
A very intriging notion that Smeagol did have a conscience once and
did make at least some statement of regret for his actions

Title: Turned Earth � Author: Dana � Genres: Alternate Universe: The
Shire or Buckland � ID: 26
Reviewer: Aranel Took � 2007-12-03 01:47:49
[*Contains Spoilers*]

Zombies usually come across as silly and cliched to me, but this story
actually makes them creepy and scary, with a good explanation as to
how we end up with hobbit zombies. The tone of the story is excellent
for a horror piece, especially the beginning with Rose's gradual
realization that something is horribly wrong.

Rose is so brave, especially considering her losses, and Sam cracks me
up in his solid calmness: ["Bag End's good and solid. The door will
hold. It'll likely need a fresh coat of paint come the morrow, but the
door will hold."] That's such a Sam thing, to think of needing to give
the door a fresh coat of paint as it's being clawed by the undead! ;-)

You had me very worried about Pippin--I'm so glad the athelas worked!

I really liked the reason for the appearance of the zombies, that
Saruman's death had poisoned the Shire, which then ties into Frodo
leaving to take the 'sickness' away.

Title: And Not To Yield � Author: Lady Marshy � Genres: Alternate
Universe: Gondor or Rohan � ID: 117
Reviewer: Aranel Took � 2007-12-03 02:54:50
[*Contains Spoilers*]

Wow! Very nicely done! Very emotional and intense (*sobs for �omer and
Faramir*) and I adore how both �omer and Faramir were so brave and
true up until the very end. I like how you had the Haradric guard be
sympathetic. And the ending -- I never imagined it would be Legolas! I
was pretty sure it was Aragorn (or perhaps a Boromir who had
survived), until the color of the banners was revealed and then it
clicked. Aragorn's 'blankness' at the end just adds more creepiness to
Legolas having the ring.

Title: The Captain and the King � Author: plasticChevy � Genres:
Alternate Universe: Gondor or Rohan � ID: 738
Reviewer: nau_tika � 2007-12-03 03:42:40
This is an excellent AU Aragorn and Boromir friendship story, but it
includes most of the other characters, some unseen in the movie. It
displays some interesting moments between Gandalf and Boromir. Eomer
speaking of how far the men of Rohan would have gone to save Boromir
speaks well of the relationship between them. The Merry and Boromir
friendship is outstanding, and Merry's defense of Boromir with the
knife is wonderful. The description of Boromir on the field of battle
is very good indeed, especially the way Aragorn garners support for
him from Eomer, Gimli and the others. Aragorn and Boromir come through
trials and torture that takes their friendship to a level near that of
brothers, and Faramir's part in this is almost painful. The council
near the end of the story displays him in a way the movie never did.
[You forget to whom you speak.] I really enjoyed getting to see
Halbarad, Imrahil and some other characters that were new to me when I
first read this fiction.

Title: The Steward's Tale � Author: plasticChevy � Genres: Alternate
Universe: Incomplete � ID: 739
Reviewer: nau_tika � 2007-12-03 03:48:05
I espescially loved the first chapter of this fiction and I think my
next favorite is the one where Legolas and Boromir go hunting. There
are alot of good Boromir and Legolas friendship moments in here. There
are also some very honest Faramir Boromir moments and I'm looking
forward to the author finishing this story to see how that plays out.

Title: The Third Eagle � Author: Imhiriel � Times: Late Third Age:
3018-3022 TA: General Drabble � ID: 630
Reviewer: Dreamflower � 2007-12-03 04:25:23
This is a striking drabble from the POV of one of the Eagles. I've
often thought that Gandalf taking three Eagles to Mt. Doom was a sign
of his compassion and hope--that, perhaps, just perhaps--there would
be a third person to rescue. I am glad to see someone else agrees with
that!

Title: Transformation � Author: Imhiriel � Races: Men: General Drabble
� ID: 185
Reviewer: Dreamflower � 2007-12-03 04:26:11
This is delightful! One can immediately sense the Prince's joy in the
circumstances that have allowed him this royal gift! The image that
Imhiriel paints at the beginning is of a gallant swashbuckler, with
the delighted grin of a small boy at Christmas!

Title: Justice � Author: Imhiriel � Genres: Drama: Gondor Drabble �
ID: 633
Reviewer: Dreamflower � 2007-12-03 04:26:35
This is the kind of thing a drabble does so very well--taking a tiny
and underappreciated bit of canon, and expanding it just enough so
that it shines like a small gem. An excellent look at what must have
been both a blessing and a problem at the beginning of his
reign--freeing the slaves of Mordor.

Title: Go Out in Joy � Author: Larner � Genres: Alternate Universe:
The Shire or Buckland � ID: 145
Reviewer: Dreamflower � 2007-12-03 04:27:19
[spoiler]
What if Frodo had chosen to reject the chance to sail, and chose
instead to die in the Shire, surrounded by his nearest and dearest
friends? Larner explores this in intimate detail, and we are shown
Frodo's last days, as he meets his end with dignity amidst much love.

We see the pained grief of those who care the most for Frodo, but more
than that, Larner uses this AU to show how Frodo fit into the wider
context of the Shire: he was beloved by more people than he knew. And
she gives him the opportunity to be honored in a way that he never
achieves in the book.

Some of the scenes have a mystical and luminous air to them, and the
ending is particularly sweet and ironic.

Title: Through Shadows � Author: Marta � Times: Late Third Age:
3018-3022 TA: General Drabble � ID: 620
Reviewer: Dreamflower � 2007-12-03 04:27:40
A lovely drabble about a lovely scene. I've always thought there was
some significance to Gimli's sharing the wonder of Kheled-zeram with
Frodo. Well done.

Title: Escape � Author: Bodkin � Times: Mid Third Age: 2851 - 3017 TA
� ID: 24
Reviewer: Dreamflower � 2007-12-03 04:28:23
A fairly simple story: an unnamed injured Dunadan falls in with a
patrol of Elves in Mirkwood, as he takes a mysterious message from
Mithrandir to Rhadagast. Yet it is not really all that simple--there
are all sorts of lovely cross-currents and hints for the astute reader
to make guesses scattered delightfully through the narrative, like
Easter Eggs.

We never actually learn who the Ranger is, nor the Elves for that
matter. But we get to see them interacting, and it is a study in
cross-cultural relations. The Ranger is able to appreciate *these*
Elves in a way he has not appreciated Elves he has known before. And
the leader of the Elven party learns to have a bit more respect for Men.

Very skillfully written, and very enjoyable to read!

Title: Falling Into Shadow � Author: Marigold � Races: Cross-Cultural:
Incomplete � ID: 205
Reviewer: Dreamflower � 2007-12-03 04:28:49
[spoiler]
Merry was exposed to the Black Breath three times before he ever
reached Rivendell with the others: Bree, Weathertop, and at the Ford.
In this story, Marigold deals with the consequences of that exposure--
as Pippin frantically seeks help for his cousin.

I really like this take on the idea that the Black Breath is
cumulative, and that Merry has taken on more than he knew in his
encounters with the Nazgul.

Marigold has indicated that there is still more to come in this story,
and I certainly hope there is--I would like to see more of it very much!

Title: First Flight � Author: Isabeau of Greenlea � Times: Mid Third
Age: 2851 - 3017 TA: Other Fixed-Length Ficlet � ID: 513
Reviewer: Dreamflower � 2007-12-03 04:29:19
A very nice vignette, invigorating, amusing and insightful! There
really are not enough Eagle stories out there!

Title: "Dumpling" � Author: grey_wonderer � Genres: Humor: The Shire
or Buckland � ID: 777
Reviewer: Dreamflower � 2007-12-03 04:30:06
Dumpling the sheep is in a fair way to becoming as famous as Errol the
rabbit. This is her first story, in which she gets the better of a
rather rattled young Brandybuck.

While Merry's insults to the sheep are hilarious, the best dialogue
comes from the exchanges with Merry's cousin Pearl, as a worried young
Pippin has several interjections.

Poor Merry. When it comes to farm animals, he just can't win.

Title: Lost in Translation � Author: sophinisba solis � Races:
Cross-Cultural: With Pippin � ID: 31
Reviewer: Dreamflower � 2007-12-03 04:30:36
This is such an insightful story, and deals with what would have been
a major problem for Merry and Pippin those first few days in
Rivendell, as Frodo hovered between life and death, and those whom
they knew--Gandalf, Strider, Sam--were all pre-occupied with Frodo
himself. Who would be willing to answer their anxious questions?
Imagine having a loved on in critical condition in a foreign hospital,
where almost no one spoke your language? Sophi captures the
frightening anxiety beautifully in a very tight POV, focussed on Pippin.

And when Frodo is better, he is able to help Pippin deal with all
those feelings of being small and inconsequential among big and
strange folks who could not be bothered to give him an answer. The
love and admiration Pippin has for Frodo is so clear, as is Frodo's
own love for his youngest cousin.

The prose is beautiful, the characterizations are spot on.

And the ending is gorgeous!

Title: The Oarsman � Author: Tanaqui � Times: Late Third Age:
3018-3022 TA: Other Fixed-Length Ficlet � ID: 357
Reviewer: Linda hoyland � 2007-12-03 05:36:27
[spoilers]

These highly atmospheric drabbles vividly convey the plight of the
Corsair's captavies and their joy when released by Aragorn. I love the
contrast between the living dead and the Army of the Dead.
Aragorn knows how to win the deserved love of his people.

Title: Safe In My Arms � Author: Fiondil � Genres: Drama � ID: 470
Reviewer: Linda hoyland � 2007-12-03 05:47:22
[spoilers]

A touching story concerning Faramir's reunion with his brother and
father in the afterlife.. Only the wronged younger son can free his
father and even then self realisation only slowly comes to Denethor.

I loved it that Faramir greeted a Valar with the same words as he
greeted Aragorn.

This story poignantly remined me that Faramir was the only one of his
family to die aged and honoured.

Title: Drawing Straight With Crooked Lines � Author: Fiondil � Genres:
Drama � ID: 76
Reviewer: Linda hoyland � 2007-12-03 05:50:35
I enjoyed this well written and touching story very much.You clearly
show how everything happened as it was meant to and Higher Powers were
at work, which is a key factor in Tolkien's universe..


Title: Debbie Does The Two Towers � Author: GypsieRose � Genres:
Alternate Universe � ID: 747
Reviewer: stefaniab � 2007-12-03 06:19:54
What a pleasure it was to revisit the world of Debbie, the Mary Sue to
end all Mary Sues, who tumbles into Middle Earth again, after her
adventures in "Debbie Does the Fellowship." This second installment of
the parody trilogy was completed during the initial rush of fan
adulation and resultant fanfic that accompanied the release of the
LOTR films.

Our wonderful heroine is based on the inimitable star of the notorious
1970s porno flick, "Debbie Does Dallas," who can't say no to the
Dallas Cowboys. As the perfect self insertion, Gypsy Rose's Debbie is
gorgeous and willing, and, in obligatory Mary Sue fashion, has the
preternatural ability to kick butt. She firmly believes in sexual
healing, and the authors regale us with tons of innuendo in this
regard. However, Debbie's exploits are not described with words, only
with winks, letting us instead imagine what Debbie might be doing with
Aragorn, Pippin, Legolas, Gandalf, Elrond, Arwen (!)...the list is
endless.

Though the parody follows the Two Towers film for the most part,
characters that are book-only, like Glorfindel and Elrond's sons pop
up to be skewered by the authors' wit. Other victims include
Victoria's Secret, laptop computers, LOTR and other fan fiction
cliches, and bad poets. My favorite moment was Treebeard's ode in
honor of Debbie, a perfect satire on the awful poem "Trees" that many
in the English-speaking world had to learn in school.

I love good comedy and particularly enjoy parodies of my favorite
books, films, songs, and so on. Debbie Does the Two Towers is a
shining example of the parody form. I laughed consistantly through all
18 chapters.

Title: Crossing � Author: Tanaqui � Races: Men: Gondor Drabble � ID: 693
Reviewer: Imhiriel � 2007-12-03 08:33:29
Very atmopheric writing. The mood of the scene is captured with a
great depth of detail, focussing on the small things, the things that
are there and gone in the blink of an eye: the ferryman's eyes
catching the light for a moment, the dark ripples flowing by, the
occasional splash.

The scenery is captured equally well; I particularly admired how you
brought out the different "textures" that form this natural environment.

I thought the beginning, the ["dark ripples"], this slightly eerie
feel of the journey, very appropriate for this for Faramir unknown
land held mostly by the Enemy - like a journey into the "heart of
darkness".

Title: Free and Gay � Author: Marta � Races: Men: Gondor � ID: 81
Reviewer: Imhiriel � 2007-12-03 08:34:00
Vivid setting, and good characterisation.

The feast the soldiers are celebrating in the field is painted with
clear, lively language, especially the dancing.

The interaction between the brothers was very natural, conveying the
deep bond between them, and I very much liked the dialogue.

Boromir's reason about why he eschews all the maidens trying to
capture a prize is stated in a delightfully subtle way, that yet
leaves room for more than one interpretation.

Title: Promises to Keep � Author: Jay of Lasgalen � Times: Early Third
Age: 1-2850 TA � ID: 321
Reviewer: Imhiriel � 2007-12-03 08:34:22
Very atmospheric description of the still, mist-enshrouded forest.

Thranduil's thoughts and feelings are captured well, and they paint a
clear picture of Oropher and the bond between father and son.

I like how initally the reader are lead to believe the ghostly
apparition might be one of the malignant Houseless Spirits - all the
more then to feel relieved and moved when it turns out be quite
another, much more benign and comforting manifestation.

Title: Standards � Author: Marta � Times: Late Third Age: 3018-3022
TA: General Drabble � ID: 541
Reviewer: Imhiriel � 2007-12-03 08:36:07
The formal style of the dialogue fits well with the slightly hightened
tone of the narrative of the drabble, just as if it could be joined
neatly to the corresponding passage in the books.

And although it *is* so formal, the emotions and the poignancy of this
moment is conveyed very tangibly.

Halbarad's pride and steadfast faith in the success of their
endeavour, and his complete surety that Arwen will become his queen is
beautiful to behold, regardless of whether he already knew at that
time that he would not live to see it (or even *because* of it).

I also very much liked the unspoken but very noticeable trust between
Arwen and her beloved's kinsman.

Title: Charcoal, Stone and Cloud � Author: shadow975 � Races: Men �
ID: 610
Reviewer: Imhiriel � 2007-12-03 08:36:42
Lovely descriptions, and fine characterisations. The interaction
between Aragorn and Boromir is close and intimate, yet still with a
touch of awkwardness that feels very right at this point in time, and
considering their personalities (and Aragorn's secrets).

I like how Aragorn's memories are interwoven into the narrative even
before he reveals himself to Boromir - it gives the story the
opportunity to show some episodes of Boromir as a little child without
the "interruption" of some present reaction.

The memories themselves are told in a very warm, beautifully nostalgic
tone.

The conversation about Faramir reveals Boromir's deep love for his
brother, and also Aragorn's interest in the House of H�rin, not only
out of political considerations, but also for themselves. This was a
most insightful passage: ["My brother has as strong a will as
Denethor, for all he may bend as a willow before the wind. Still, it
leaves him standing upright when it passes, strong as ever. I fear
sometimes my father may break before the storm that comes."]

Title: Droplets � Author: Dawn Felagund � Times: Multi-Age:
Fixed-Length Ficlet � ID: 566
Reviewer: Imhiriel � 2007-12-03 08:37:43
Beautiful, resonating imagery and a rich, lyrical style.

The overall theme of ["Droplets"], of water in all its many
manifestations - literally and symbolically - is interwoven poignantly
into the narrative. The symbolism never feels forced, it is just as
much a part of the "normal" description of the scenery or how the
protagonists "act" with it, as meaningful on a deeper level of
interpretation.

There is often the sense that Elrond is semi-aware of what the water
might symbolise in their specific situation, be it complementing his
own current mood, or providing a contrast to it that might even hurt
in its bitter irony. This tension is even carried beyond the final
snippet, when it shows the reunion of Elrond with Celebr�an - which,
one migh suppose, is cause for joy - and closes with her ["displayed
against the grieving sky"].

The characterisations are excellent, the emotions are movingly and
poignantly conveyed (I appreciate that you show Elrond as not always
calm and perfect).

I love the way the double-drabbles enable the readers to look into
Elrond mind and heart at many different stations of his long life,
often crucial turning points in his fate or those close to him.

Title: Dawning Hope: A Day Out � Author: Radbooks � Times: Mid Third
Age: 2851 - 3017 TA � ID: 659
Reviewer: Imhiriel � 2007-12-03 08:38:10
Very visual writing - I could clearly picture the environments and the
way people moved or gestured.

Lovingly rendered characterisations (even those of the horses *g*); I
especially liked how you captured the children in general, and in
particular the way you have realised �owyn. Her fears and her bravery,
her wariness and her determination were conveyed very evocatively and
movingly.

And you gave me just one more reason for regretting Th�odred's
untimely death - what a wonderful father he would have been!

Points of criticism would be the some unclear attributions; and the
use of PoV, which jumps around a lot, sometimes even within a paragraph.

Title: There and Back � Author: Lindelea � Times: Late Third Age:
3018-3022 TA: Gondor � ID: 801
Reviewer: Imhiriel � 2007-12-03 08:38:33
Clear prose; the vivid descriptions in the first part, and later the
dreamlike narrative from Pippin's PoVpaint a nuanced picture of the story.

This is a carefully crafted gapfiller for the days after the battle at
the Morannon and in Cormallen, with a judicious pinch of movie-verse
lines mixed in.

The characterisations are well-done; I particularly liked the portrait
of Gimli.

It was suspenseful how Pippin's recollections of happy incidences
interwoven into the narrative suddenly changed to nightmares of much
less pleasant memories, which distorted even his awareness of what's
happening around him.

Title: Taking Leave � Author: Soubrettina � Times: Fourth Age and
Beyond: Gondor or Rohan � ID: 326
Reviewer: Imhiriel � 2007-12-03 08:39:17
Well-written and moving. Vivid dialogue, and the sense of the
immediacy and intimacy of words and thoughts carries over even into
the narrative.

It was heartbreaking to witness �owyn's slow fading, her determination
to face the end with courage and grace, to accept the inevitability,
but not bend or break, even when she sometimes tries to ignore it or
frets over temporary failings.

The relationship portrayed between Aragorn and �owyn was particularly
touching; I loved the bond of deep friendship between them that yet
acknowledges the more formal bond of liege-lord and liege - recalling
their conversation after her betrothal in ["Many Partings", RotK].

Faramir's grief, though only seen indirectly through Aragorn's eyes,
was captured in very haunting images.

It was a sensitive exploration of aging and death, especially under
the aspect of the various life expectancies of the different races and
cultures of Middle-earth.

It's a pity that a number of spelling errors mar this otherwise very
poignant reading experience.

Title: Longing � Author: Larner � Times: Fourth Age and Beyond � ID: 468
Reviewer: Imhiriel � 2007-12-03 08:40:15
This is a very moving story, which weaves the information to be found
in the HoMe series about Tolkien's extended thoughts about lembas and
sea-longing smoothly into the narrative.

It's a very creative but plausible approach to the question why Pippin
& Merry would want to spend their last years so far away from their
beloved home and families.

Pippin's restlessness is conveyed very well, and his frustration that
he can't really explain it to his own son because Faramir just
couldn't possibly understand. I also liked how you inferred his
interest in history and lore described in the Prologue.

Title: The Bearing of Burdens � Author: Larner � Races:
Cross-Cultural: Gondor � ID: 792
Reviewer: Isabeau of Greenlea � 2007-12-03 11:49:32
An enjoyable exploration of Frodo's quest as explained by the
unquenchable Master Samwise. When Faramir finds him alone reading
after Aragorn's coronation, he asks him a question and finds himself
answered more fully than he had anticipated. Good Samwise voice here.

Title: The Spear of the Lily � Author: The Bookbinder's Daughter �
Genres: Romance: Gondor � ID: 11
Reviewer: Isabeau of Greenlea � 2007-12-03 11:52:13
Lyrical and lovely. Faramir, musing upon his wife at dawn. Really, he
is just the sort to be writing poetry about her years after their
marriage. I always saw him as a total romantic.

Title: On Starless Waters Far Astray � Author: Empy � Genres:
Crossover � ID: 557
Reviewer: Isabeau of Greenlea � 2007-12-03 11:56:49
This one took me by surprise. I read and write a fair bit of slash,
and I read and write a fair bit of Imrahil, but I had never expected
to encounter this particular pairing! The mechanism as to how this is
brought about is never fully described, and that's probably best. The
encounter between the two men is full of frustration of all
sorts-unlike many fictions, the language barrier is not disregarded or
done away with, so the two men never truly communicate save on the
physical level. It's an odd sort of piece, which is to be expected
given the premise, but it works on some level. Imrahil is the
commander of men that Tolkien shows him to be, and Norrington still
keeps his pride, despite his current circumstances in his own canon.

Title: Shadow and Thought � Author: Linda hoyland � Genres: Drama:
With Aragorn � ID: 122
Reviewer: Bodkin � 2007-12-03 18:36:56
In a way, it's really not surprising that Eowyn should feel out of
place. I'm sure she had plenty of patronising Gondorian ladies rubbing
in that she might be a king's niece and a king's sister, but she was
from an inferior race so it didn't really count. And Faramir, poor
dear, can be a bit gormless when it comes to relationships! I love
Elbeth. She's such a strong-willed little madam, even here.

It's a shame Arwen stayed behind - I expect she's pretty lonely there
in the White City. She and Eowyn are natural allies really, once Eowyn
gets over feeling like a gawky girl in her presence.

And matters seem to be turning out well ... for the moment!

Title: Lord N�mo's Yule Gift � Author: Fiondil � Genres: Humor � ID: 335
Reviewer: Bodkin � 2007-12-03 18:38:42
I like the idea of Merry and Pippin causing havoc in Namo's Halls on
their way to wherever the spirits of mortals dwell! And the idea of
Boromir and Eomer waiting for Elessar so that they might all move on
together. Poor Namo must feel like someone trying to run a boarding
school full of remarkably bouncy kids!

A fun story. And very seasonal. So Merry and Pippin want to take Namo
under their wing and ensure he isn't lonely at Yule, do they? It seems
very much in character!


Title: Emissary of the Mark � Author: Soledad � Genres: Adventure:
Incomplete � ID: 356
Reviewer: Bodkin � 2007-12-03 18:45:14
You are so good at all this world-building! Halabor has become a
complete, rounded environment to me - and now this! You have developed
a whole Rhunish society and mores - and it is so interesting. I do
like Elfhelm - he is a very attractive personality. And I think Grima
has definitely suckered him into agreeing to do something that
Wormtongue thinks will be the end of the Marshal.

I wonder if Strider can offer more information than that he left with
Aelfgifu - he might have had the chance to learn considerably more
since those days! And he is another one who has to get out of this -
like the elf. (I do like not having to worry about the survival of my
heroes, so I'm keeping my fingers crossed that nothing too dreadful
happens to them along the way.)

I love the horses - definite characters of their own. And poor Elfhelm
is quite indignant that they fall for the charms of the elf. It must
have been pretty staggering to be the first of the Rohirrim in who
knows how long to meet an elf and have it proved to him that they do
exist! I wonder what preconceptions he will have to lose next!

I do hope you continue with this story - it is a great read.


Title: Adolescence � Author: Larner � Races: Cross-Cultural: Gondor �
ID: 143
Reviewer: Bodkin � 2007-12-03 18:46:32
Adolescence is never easy - and I can see that being observed all the
time you are outside your own rooms would be very tough on the royal
kids. Aragorn and Sam dealt with it quite well - and maybe Melian and
Elanor realised that the supervision is more for their protection than
to keep them hemmed in.

Halgil may be feeling quite faint now - but actually, he can really
congratulate himself on the way he was doing his job. The girls were
suspicious characters in their own naive way - and he picked up on
that and was investigating as best he could.

I suspect Melian and Elanor were quite glad to see Aragorn and Sam at
that moment - just as they would probably have been rather huffy and
quite indignant had they been found before Halgil took them in charge.

Title: Taken � Author: iorhael � Genres: Alternate Universe:
Incomplete � ID: 791
Reviewer: Larner � 2007-12-04 05:27:51
Iorhael's premise--that during the time within the Prancing Pony Frodo
wore the Ring that part of his soul was taken by Sauron, given
corporeal form and tortured, that torture being felt by the Frodo who
traveled with the rest of the Fellowship, is certainly a unique and
fascinating one. To see the lengths taken by the Fellowship to try to
retrieve that soul while Sauron and Saruman's minions are trying to
capture the rest of Frodo and the Ring or to blackmail them into
handing it over is fascinating.

Compelling.

Title: Responsibility � Author: Tanaqui � Races: Men: Gondor Drabble �
ID: 720
Reviewer: Larner � 2007-12-04 05:30:51
In my own writing I have Aragorn insisting several times he should
execute a prisoner, as in the end the responsibility IS his. That
Faramir would feel the same way is simply right.

Very thought-provoking.

Title: Divided � Author: Pen52 � Genres: Drama: The Fellowship � ID: 223
Reviewer: Larner � 2007-12-04 05:41:33
Too likely that this is indeed how those such as Aragorn and Boromir
feel regarding their need to fight and slay other Men. Very
thought-provoking.

Pippin had to ask.

Title: Free and Gay � Author: Marta � Races: Men: Gondor � ID: 81
Reviewer: Larner � 2007-12-04 05:47:52
Avoiding the predatory maidens of Minas Tirith has special allure for
Boromir, who knows no temptation for womankind. No, a soldier's Yule
for him.

Rather sad, really. Well told vignette.

Title: Lord N�mo's Yule Gift � Author: Fiondil � Genres: Humor � ID: 335
Reviewer: Marta � 2007-12-04 05:54:22
This was a great read, mixing drama creative canon exploration, and
laugh-out-loud humor. Fellowship-members-in-Mandos is not something
that has never been done before, yet you make it feel original. Nice
work, Fiondil.

Title: The Harper � Author: juno_magic � Times: Fourth Age and Beyond:
Gondor or Rohan � ID: 10
Reviewer: Larner � 2007-12-04 06:07:22
My first introduction to the image of the blind harper was in Rosemary
Sutcliff's "Warrior Scarlet," which to this day remains one of my
favorite books. And this look at perhaps Maglor coming to the high
village to entertain for the winter, the reluctance with which he was
greeted, the glory with how he was allowed to leave with a cloak fit
for kings and the following of a boy intent on becoming a harper
himself, is marvelous.

Thank you.

Title: No Pain, No Gain � Author: annmarwalk � Genres: Humor: Other
Fixed-Length Ficlet � ID: 435
Reviewer: Raksha the Demon � 2007-12-04 06:14:52
A clever answer to a challenge to use parallel, and at times similar,
dialogue in different situations. I like the way the two pieces deal
with such totally different circumstances and characters.

Excellent last line, too.

Title: Romance � Author: Greywing � Genres: Humor: Other Fixed-Length
Ficlet � ID: 375
Reviewer: Raksha the Demon � 2007-12-04 06:16:56
The shortest, and one of the most original and humorous, depictions of
the romance of Eomer and Lothiriel that I have ever read. Well done,
Greywing!



Title: 13th Birthday � Author: stefaniab � Races: Men: Gondor � ID: 138
Reviewer: Larner � 2007-12-04 06:19:25
In a land where so many die protecting their own at a young age,
maturity is judged to come early. So Boromir seeks to introduce his
younger brother to a man's life at thirteen. An interesting look at
the dynamics of the relationships between the brothers and their father.

Title: Belonging � Author: Bodkin � Genres: Romance: Second Age or
Earlier � ID: 422
Reviewer: Larner � 2007-12-04 06:39:13
An afternoon of pleasurable togetherness along the Bruinen in company
with his wife convinces Elrond he is one of the most blessed of Elves,
although even though he's seen nothing to foretell the future he still
desires assurance his Celebrian will not leave him.

Gently erotic without being graphic; sensitively and beautifully told,
this is one of Bodkin's most pleasing tales of life amongst the Elves
of Arda.

A dozen elflings they'd contemplate?

Title: Requiem � Author: Rhapsody � Races: Cross-Cultural � ID: 280
Reviewer: Larner � 2007-12-04 06:44:09
As short as this is, the emotional impact is great. Huan is dead, and
Celegorm must live on, grieving for the one who, in keeping with the
nature of his kind, had loved unconditionally.

Perfect interspersement of traditional modern funeral rites with the
grief expressed here.

Title: Don't Be Deceived � Author: Imhiriel � Genres: Humor: Other
Fixed-Length Ficlet � ID: 351
Reviewer: Larner � 2007-12-04 06:47:35
Ah, it's been a time since I first read this. The man in the corner of
the inn, the rough, worn appearance, the nod of recognition for the
two who'd briefly entered the common room. And a young man has just
seen the model of how he himself will appear in years to come.

Marvelous play on expectations!

Title: Poking The Badger � Author: grey_wonderer � Genres: Humor: The
Shire or Buckland � ID: 209
Reviewer: Larner � 2007-12-04 07:05:19
When Merry comes home from the Hall to Crickhollow once more in a
temper, Pippin finds himself comparing the situation to trying to put
a waistcoat on a Badger. But when at last Merry lets it be known
what's bothering him, between the two of them they manage to defuse
the frustration and figure out ways to allow Merry to once more feel
competitively part of Shire life once more.

Thoughtful and filled with Pippin's wondrous logic.

Title: An Alphabet for Middle-earth � Author: Dreamflower � Races:
Cross-Cultural � ID: 231
Reviewer: Inkling � 2007-12-04 07:35:18
[spoilers]

Dreamflower's response to a difficult alphabet challenge has produced
this highly creative and entertaining anthology, covering an
impressive variety of forms, styles and subjects. The prompts are
often taken in unexpected directions, as in ["D: Like a Very Dirty
Dragon"], which had me picturing Smaug in a tub (even before reading
Raksha's humorous take on the same prompt). Instead, Dreamflower
presents a sad and yet hopeful picture of the vandalized Green Dragon
Inn after the Battle of Bywater. Likewise, I assumed that ["T: Like a
Turgid Turgon"] would concern the Elven king of Gondolin, not a
steward of Gondor whose statue in the Citadel is being contemplated by
four curious hobbits.

I was especially taken with ["W: Like a Wet Warg"]. The idea of a Warg
desiring the Ring is one I haven't encountered before in fanfiction.
Dreamflower does an excellent job of imagining lupine visions of
power: [He would have become the mightiest of Wargs, and the pack
could go ravening over the lands of Men and Orcs alike devouring all,
mighty in power as long-ago Warg-kind had been when their chief had
been the One Who Sits in Darkness in the South. Blood and bone would
be theirs; none would escape their maws.]

Another gem is ["X: Like Excruciating Exertions on the Way to That
Crucial X on the Mouldering Map"]. I don't know of another fanfic
writer who can capture the style and spirit of "The Hobbit" as well as
Dreamflower, and she proves it once again in this piece, an ingenious
response to the prompt and a very nice bit of "Hobbit" gapfiller from
Bombur's POV.

All 26 ficlets are delightful and well worth the read!




Title: More than Meets the Eye � Author: Dadgad � Genres: Humor: The
Shire or Buckland � ID: 128
Reviewer: Inkling � 2007-12-04 07:53:10
This is a wonderful story, full of sly humor, skillful pacing, rustic
hobbit heroism and canonical Middle-earth history. It uses a brief
anecdote in "Concerning Hobbits" as the springboard for a hilarious
first-hand account of the Battle of Greenfields, all the funnier for
being told from the perspective of a sheepish Elladan and Elrohir to
their incredulous father and a clueless Erestor. Only Glorfindel
smiles knowingly, remembering the halfling archers at the Battle of
Fornost.

Now we know how Bandobras "Bullroarer" Took got his nickname, and the
origin of golfers' hideous clothing. I loved his demurring that he
should have made his 18 kills in fewer strokes!

I was smiling through most of the story, but finally hit a paragraph
that made me burst out laughing, the one beginning: ['You mean
Glorfindel in checked trousers and a pink waistcoat,']

I highly recommend this story to hobbit and elf fanciers alike!



Title: A New Reckoning � Author: Dreamflower � Races: Cross-Cultural �
ID: 308
Reviewer: Bodkin � 2007-12-04 08:16:23
I thoroughly enjoyed this story. Not to mention that it introduces
some of the most unpleasant hobbits to darken the borders of the
Shire! Hyacinth - who later (potentially) gave a troll a terminal
stomach condition - Took, mother of three badly-raised jewels of
daughters and the amiable(?) pair of brothers, Cado and Clovis Banks,
who would, in the absence of a certain Meriadoc Brandybuck, have been
enough to put Pippin off cousins for life.

I enjoyed seeing the hobbits' gradual realisation of just how much the
four adventurous travellers were respected and honoured in the outside
world. Especially Paladin's. He needed more than most to understand
the difference between his light-hearted and slightly wild pre-quest
son and the adult-in-tween's-clothing who returned, haunted by his
experiences.

I was sorry to see the story end - it's all very well when they go
home or off to visit, but it's like Frodo knowing he will never see
Legolas again - sad. Bergil will be grown up, Merry married -
everything changes. All the 'you can't pass over the same river twice'
stuff.

Still - they're still on the road to Edoras - and learning a thing or
two along the way!

Title: A Useful Skill � Author: EdorasLass � Genres: Humor: Children �
ID: 46
Reviewer: Bodkin � 2007-12-04 08:22:43
Very good training - and just what a future soldier needs to know.
Nanny is really pretty good at Denethor-management ... shame she
wasn't around for the Palantir-years. Although I suppose she wouldn't
have stood a chance once his marbles started to go.

I love Nanny with her duckling and her rabbit. They are adorable.

Title: The Stone of Erebor � Author: Primsong � Genres: Mystery � ID: 401
Reviewer: Bodkin � 2007-12-04 08:26:21
It was a pleasure to read a story that starred both Bilbo and dwarves!
Dwarven society seems to have definite peculiarities - and I'm glad
that Bilbo managed to negotiate his way round them. It seemed for a
bit that he would make an excellent scapegoat.

I'm glad Dim escaped without any repercussions. And I expect Bilbo was
rather glad that matters settled down - and that the return of the
necklace to the Mountain wasn't followed by any unnecessary stir!
(Clever bit of thinking on his feet there.) The remaining adventurers
were able to settle down at last and behave as hobbits and dwarves should!

Hi Marta and MEFA gang -

Before I wrote my last review, I decided to look at other reviews
about the story to make sure I didn't repeat what others said. In the
"Browse Stories" results, this particular story was listed as having

>2 reviews. But when I hit that greater than 2 mark, only one review

popped up.

So I decided to look at the reviews of my story "13th Birthday" by
clicking on its ID. My browser displayed a single page of the most
recent reviews but at least four older reviews weren't listed. I
received the same results by going to "Read Reviews", choosing my
name, and then hitting select.

So what's the deal? My earlier reviews were on pages that I marked as
read. Is that why I can no longer see them, or is there something
wrong with the database lookup? As far as the MEFAs are concerned, I'm
not particularly in it to win it, but I would like credit for all my
reviews, as I'm sure everyone else would, too. I'd be reassured that
my problem is purely pilot error and I just did the wrong thing to
view my reviews.

- STeff

Hi Steff,

Yes, if you marked them as read, they will be hidden. There is a link above the filter box
that says "Show Marked Reviews". Try clicking on that.

I have eight reviews show up for you on the Reviews page for "13th Birthday". Is that
correct?

Aranel

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

>
> Hi Marta and MEFA gang -
>
> Before I wrote my last review, I decided to look at other reviews
> about the story to make sure I didn't repeat what others said. In the
> "Browse Stories" results, this particular story was listed as having
> >2 reviews. But when I hit that greater than 2 mark, only one review
> popped up.
>
> So I decided to look at the reviews of my story "13th Birthday" by
> clicking on its ID. My browser displayed a single page of the most
> recent reviews but at least four older reviews weren't listed. I
> received the same results by going to "Read Reviews", choosing my
> name, and then hitting select.
>
> So what's the deal? My earlier reviews were on pages that I marked as
> read. Is that why I can no longer see them, or is there something
> wrong with the database lookup? As far as the MEFAs are concerned, I'm
> not particularly in it to win it, but I would like credit for all my
> reviews, as I'm sure everyone else would, too. I'd be reassured that
> my problem is purely pilot error and I just did the wrong thing to
> view my reviews.
>
> - STeff
>

Hi Steff

Stephanie Brucker wrote:

> So what's the deal? My earlier reviews were on pages that I marked as
> read. Is that why I can no longer see them

Yes, that's right. You'll no longer see reviews that were on pages
you've marked as read on the default view.

You can still see all the reviews if you click on the "Show Marked
Reviews" link just above the filter with the drop down choices. The ones
you've marked as read will show up in pink.

HTH

Tanaqui

Hi Steff,

My guess is that people have entered either draft or hidden reviews.
Remember, when you enter a review you give it a status (draft, hidden,
or final). Only final reviews are visible. (Hidden will be visible at
the end of the awards; draft are never shown.)

So, what I think is going on is, someone entered draft or hidden
reviews, which the website registes as a review entered. But it's not
displayed because it's not a final review.

If you'll tell me what story you're looking at, and I'll look into it
for you.

Hope that helps!

Marta

Stephanie Brucker wrote:

>
>
> Hi Marta and MEFA gang -
>
> Before I wrote my last review, I decided to look at other reviews
> about the story to make sure I didn't repeat what others said. In the
> "Browse Stories" results, this particular story was listed as having
> >2 reviews. But when I hit that greater than 2 mark, only one review
> popped up.
>
> So I decided to look at the reviews of my story "13th Birthday" by
> clicking on its ID. My browser displayed a single page of the most
> recent reviews but at least four older reviews weren't listed. I
> received the same results by going to "Read Reviews", choosing my
> name, and then hitting select.
>
> So what's the deal? My earlier reviews were on pages that I marked as
> read. Is that why I can no longer see them, or is there something
> wrong with the database lookup? As far as the MEFAs are concerned, I'm
> not particularly in it to win it, but I would like credit for all my
> reviews, as I'm sure everyone else would, too. I'd be reassured that
> my problem is purely pilot error and I just did the wrong thing to
> view my reviews.
>
> - STeff
>

Title: Crossing towards Sunrise � Author: Imhiriel � Times: Fourth Age
and Beyond � ID: 14
Reviewer: Isabeau of Greenlea � 2007-12-04 11:52:02
When you think about it, Elrond must have truly been exhausted by his
labors in Middle-earth. And going West would have been a bitter-sweet
journey indeed, as he was leaving all his children behind with no
assurance that Celebrian would not blame him for it. Imhiriel depicts
this dilemma very poignantly, describing the very last part of the
journey through Gandalf. The arrival in the Undying Lands is very well
done, and though Bilbo is not one of my favorite characters, he makes
an appearance here to good effect.

Title: The Perfect Girl � Author: nikara � Genres: Non-Fiction � ID: 232
Reviewer: stefaniab � 2007-12-04 18:20:16
Nikara's essay "The Perfect Girl" presents a well researched and developed
survey of the Mary Sue character in Tolkien fan fiction. In Nikara's
opinion, the Mary Sue genre is a viable one, undeserving of the bile
the genre receives from the Tolkien fan fiction community. Nikara
blames the Mary Sue genre's bad press on the lack of writing
experience of the young women who typically author in the genre.

I found most interesting Nikara's test case, wherein she writes a
prologue starring a character who embodies all the stereotypical
characteristics that typify Mary Sues. Nikara presents the reviews and
hit statistics on the prologue to illustrate her points.

I recommend "The Perfect Girl", especially for those who are
interested in the development and nuturing of fan fiction as a viable
literary form for Internet publication.

Title: Are You Going to Leave Me? � Author: Llinos � Genres: Drama:
With Merry � ID: 142
Reviewer: Aranel Took � 2007-12-04 19:52:32
[*Contains Spoilers*]

This is a great gapfiller! Merry's confusion at the beginning is so
heartbreaking, as is Pippin's worry and �owyn's despair that Merry
could be lost. And of course it would be talk of food to bring Merry
out of his darkness! I love Merry's argument for why he should be
allowed to go to the Black Gate -- he is so brave and loyal -- and I
love that �omer gave in and made him a knight of Rohan, thus enabling
him to go to the last battle.

Title: South � Author: Aliana � Times: Fourth Age and Beyond: Gondor
or Rohan � ID: 8
Reviewer: Aranel Took � 2007-12-04 20:22:10
A very touching look at the friendship between Merry and �owyn. I like
how his dream of horses led him to visit her, and that they can sit
together in silence (a mark of true friendship). I love the connection
he has with the remaining members of the Fellowship and others (such
as �omer), that he needs them because they understand everything he's
been through. I love this paragraph best of all: ['He once thought
that leaving the Shire, seeing all the wilds and wonders and terrors
of Middle-earth would make his world larger, and it has. But in some
ways his world is also smaller, now, shrunk down to the roomful of
people with whom he can sit in silence and not feel the need to
explain.'] Wonderful story!

Title: Some Dark Place � Author: Raksha the Demon � Genres: Adventure:
Fixed-Length Ficlet � ID: 226
Reviewer: Marta � 2007-12-04 20:26:10
Very evocative writing! I could completely see this happening. And the
taste of foresight at the very end added a nice bit of depth to this
piece.

Title: A Pirate's Life for Me! � Author: Raksha the Demon � Races:
Men: Other Fixed-Length Ficlet � ID: 438
Reviewer: Linda hoyland � 2007-12-05 03:52:00
[spoilers]

These delightful ficlets take a light hearted look at pirates.We know
that with the corsairs of Umbar, Gondor lived with the threat of
pirates for a very long time until there two final (we hope ) defeats
at Aragorn's hand.

I loved seing young Faramir playing at being Captain Thorongil with
his Uncle Imrahil and Imrahil's musings over the identity of the
mysterious Captain. Nice to think that Faramir admired his King long
before they ever met ! young Faramir shows his budding wisdom and
scolary leanings in wishing to learn the pirate's language lest he
encounter them.Is it fanciful to suggest that even at such a young age
he has the foresight to know the pirates will trouble Gondor again?

The Gilbert and Sullivan references are insppired as who can think of
pirates without them?

It is sad that Uncle Imrahil is playing at pirates with Faramir rather
than Denethor.

The second ficlet shows that the next generation has cast of the
shadow of the old,as Faramir now Steward is happily playing at pirates
with both his son and his daughter and showing himself a loving father
who can have fun and at the same time ensure that Elboron is nice to
his sister.

I cannot say I'm a great fan of pirates in general and the current
craze has passed me by, but these ficlets are a most enjoyable read
and capture the essence of childhood.

Title: Pick Your Battles � Author: Aliana � Genres: Alternate Universe
� ID: 550
Reviewer: Marta � 2007-12-05 03:53:33
I'm really enjoying this series of post-modern vignettes! The touch of
the functionally illiterate orderly was truly inspired, especially the
way she defended it. But there's the dark undercurrent that
characterizes all of these, and the sort of plodding-along spirit that
seems characteristic of Gondor, even if it takes a very different form
than what I might expect in a more traditional work. Good job, Aliana!

Title: A Kingly Discussion � Author: GamgeeFest � Races: Hobbits:
Post-Grey Havens � ID: 780
Reviewer: Bodkin � 2007-12-05 07:50:47
Of course, that Elis-bloke is only the King. A letter from him is not
quite like getting one from the Thain - but certainly worth taking
down the pub ... just so that everyone there can see just how much
this person thinks of his son.

I can just see the Gaffer preening himself - and trying to look
modest, while attempting not to burst with pride.


Title: For all the Gold in Harad � Author: Elendiari22 � Genres:
Drama: Incomplete � ID: 584
Reviewer: Bodkin � 2007-12-05 07:55:40
What? Education can be interesting? Elessar and Arwen should
definitely encourage the acquaintance! Their son will benefit
enormously - lessons in manners, other cultures, the value of books.
Good for Lady Seraphine!

The relationship between Eldarion and the princess from Harad is an
intriguing one - although she is in exile, there is an equality
between them that he would never get with another tutor. And it is
fascinating discovering more about her life, too.

Title: First Flight � Author: Isabeau of Greenlea � Times: Mid Third
Age: 2851 - 3017 TA: Other Fixed-Length Ficlet � ID: 513
Reviewer: Bodkin � 2007-12-05 07:59:22
I love this - the excitement of the eaglets as they welcome Radagast
as if he was their favourite uncle is delightful. And I can't imagine
an occasion more worth celebrating - if you are an eagle - than your
offsprings' first flight. Gwaihir is a credit to his parents, too. The
thinking eagle's chick.

Title: Journey's End � Author: Altariel � Genres: Drama: Ithilien �
ID: 442
Reviewer: Bodkin � 2007-12-05 08:10:21
Delightful. The character of Eilen is well realised - she's a
sharp-eyed and practical woman, caring and intelligent - and with a
good understanding of what is really important. I like her family
background - and I love the way she sees that the visitors condemned
to the barn are actually quite pleased by the decision. The Rangers,
of course - well, they would be pleased. They've been let off leashes
that must choke them both at times, even if they are given to acts of
nobility and self-sacrifice. I hope they do get the chance to return
to the inn.

Title: Yours to command � Author: Lialathuveril � Genres: Romance:
With Rohirrim � ID: 129
Reviewer: Bodkin � 2007-12-05 08:20:37
The Princess of Dol Amroth must be high on the list of maidens
suitable to become the bride of a king - all things being equal. Yet
even Faramir accepts that she is totally out of the question! I pity
Eomer as he visits the White City - the victim of a particularly
unforgiving hunt.

Fortunately, Lothiriel manages to save him from the wiles of Lady
Wilwarin and her ilk. Just about! I love how protective Eomer became
of the princess - and, if she doesn't meet his list of bridal
perfection, he sensible no longer cares, just as long as she loves
him. Quite right!

Now the evil prince - deserved all he got! While Arwen's response to
the Butterfly was ... masterly.And Eomer and Lothiriel deserved their
happy ending. A very enjoyable story.

Thanks to Aranel and others -

My home computer is in the process of being replaced so I only now have
the opportunity to respond. Thanks for your help. What confused me is I
did not mark my earlier reviews specifically as "read." I marked the
whole page that they appeared on as read. In my haste yesterday before
taking down my old computer, I probably missed the "Show Marked Reviews"
box. Pilot error, sez I, red faced with embarassment. Thanks for your help.

- Steff

araneltook wrote:

> Hi Steff,
>
> Yes, if you marked them as read, they will be hidden. There is a link above the filter box
> that says "Show Marked Reviews". Try clicking on that.
>
> I have eight reviews show up for you on the Reviews page for "13th Birthday". Is that
> correct?
>
> Aranel
>
> --- In MEFAwards@yahoogroups.com, "Stephanie Brucker" <stephanie.brucker@...>
> wrote:
>> Hi Marta and MEFA gang -
>>
>> Before I wrote my last review, I decided to look at other reviews
>> about the story to make sure I didn't repeat what others said. In the
>> "Browse Stories" results, this particular story was listed as having
>>> 2 reviews. But when I hit that greater than 2 mark, only one review
>> popped up.
>>
>> So I decided to look at the reviews of my story "13th Birthday" by
>> clicking on its ID. My browser displayed a single page of the most
>> recent reviews but at least four older reviews weren't listed. I
>> received the same results by going to "Read Reviews", choosing my
>> name, and then hitting select.
>>
>> So what's the deal? My earlier reviews were on pages that I marked as
>> read. Is that why I can no longer see them, or is there something
>> wrong with the database lookup? As far as the MEFAs are concerned, I'm
>> not particularly in it to win it, but I would like credit for all my
>> reviews, as I'm sure everyone else would, too. I'd be reassured that
>> my problem is purely pilot error and I just did the wrong thing to
>> view my reviews.
>>
>> - STeff
>>
>
>
>
>
>
> Visit our website: http://www.mefawards.net/MEFA2007/
> Yahoo! Groups Links
>
>
>

Title: Wind of Change � Author: Imhiriel � Genres: Crossover � ID: 669
Reviewer: Marta � 2007-12-05 15:13:18
Fascinating perspective on a modern Earth historical event. I never
would have thought to bring Maglor into this moment in history, but
you made it feel so natural, especially the way you connected it with
one of my favorite aspects of his past, his love for Elros and Elrond.
Very well done.

Title: Bitter � Author: vladazhael � Genres: Drama: General Drabble �
ID: 173
Reviewer: Marta � 2007-12-05 21:04:04
Mmm, it is amazing what we can forgive our parents - save perhaps
dying before we feel like they should, and "leaving us." Your drabble
does a very good job of capturing this idea, and through it capturing
the spirit and character of the Sons of Feanor. Most thought-provoking!

Title: First Flight � Author: Isabeau of Greenlea � Times: Mid Third
Age: 2851 - 3017 TA: Other Fixed-Length Ficlet � ID: 513
Reviewer: Inkling � 2007-12-05 23:36:40
I've always had a soft spot for the Eagles, and so while reading MEFA
reviews this one caught my eye. Isabeau has crafted a charming
portrait of an Eagle family, each member with his or her own distinct
personality. Especially well done is the contrast between the two
brothers (reminding me, in fact, of my own twin sons): impetuous
Landroval, hurling himself out of the nest with no clear sense of how
to fly; and the more thoughtful Gwaihir, holding back and perhaps
learning from his brother's clumsy attempt, then executing a perfect
take-off.

A nice glimpse of the [scruffy wizard] as well!


Title: Peregrin � Author: Pearl Took � Races: Hobbits: Gapfiller � ID: 316
Reviewer: stefaniab � 2007-12-06 01:02:52
"Peregrin" explores the stream of conscious thoughts of Peregrin Took
as he climbs a cliff to light the beacons of Minas Tirith. In
parallel, Pearl Took offers the thoughts of a peregrin falcon soaring
over the orc armies assembled for the siege. This nicely imagined
movieverse story so beautifully expresses how Pippin might have felt
as he struggled to prove his worth in an endeavor life in the Shire
has left him ill prepared for. From the falcon's point of view, Pippin
is a struggling fledgling trying to find his "nest." The falcon
presents Pippin with a twig from what it thinks is the fledgling's
nest--the beacon site only a short climb beyond the hobbit's resting
place. In a touching finale, the bird gives Pippin unspoken
encouragement and inspiration.

Title: The Wizard's Coin � Author: grey_wonderer � Races: Hobbits:
Pre-Quest � ID: 480
Reviewer: Dreamflower � 2007-12-06 02:59:21
This is one of GW's earlier stories, and I am so grateful to the MEFAs
for giving me an excuse to revisit it. I truly enjoy seeing the germ
of Merry's and Pippin's personalities here, that later developed into
the characterizations of her later stories. Pippin's adorable,
speaking his "Pippish" and getting himself into the kind of trouble
that only Pippin can. And Merry is caught on the cusp between wonder
and practicality, at that age where a child is not quite ready to give
up believing in magic. Of course I love Frodo in this as well--he's
his wise and common-sensical and loving self!

I really loved the ambiguous ending as well!

Wonderful fun! I so much enjoyed reading it once more!

Title: Cultural Exchanges In Gondor � Author: Llinos/Marigold
CoAuthors � Times: Late Third Age: 3018-3022 TA: Other Fixed-Length
Ficlet � ID: 94
Reviewer: Dreamflower � 2007-12-06 02:59:52
These were all quite funny--it's always lovely to see the hobbits
encountering something new in the Wide World, but I have to say my
favorites were Sam's planned joke on his sister, and Pippin in the
last one--oh my!

Title: A Pirate's Life for Me! � Author: Raksha the Demon � Races:
Men: Other Fixed-Length Ficlet � ID: 438
Reviewer: Dreamflower � 2007-12-06 03:02:18
I love this set of ficlets. Imrahil was an excellent and fond uncle,
and served as a wonderful role model for his little nephew--who in his
turn had a chance to deal with his own little pirates!

And there *is* something appealing about the idea of pirates, if not
the reality, that makes children want to play at it.

Title: Rauros, golden Rauros-falls � Author: Imhiriel � Genres: Humor:
Drabble � ID: 624
Reviewer: Dreamflower � 2007-12-06 03:04:12
This drabble needs a beverage warning. Let us just say that it is
unlike any other "Boromir!lives" AU I have ever seen, and having read
it now more than once, the ending *still* startles a laugh out of me!

Title: Hope Unquenched � Author: White Gull � Genres: Poetry: With
Hobbits � ID: 410
Reviewer: Mechtild � 2007-12-06 03:44:19
I could not tell what or whom this poem was about until I got to the
end, prompting re-readings to double-check. "White Gull's Nest", the
title at the top of the page (rather than "Hope Unquenched") read,
making me think the poem was going to have something to do with
seagulls, or the Sea. When I read of the "halls" in stanza two, it
made me think it might take place in Minas Tirith. Seagulls could
easily wing their way up the Anduin following ships. There was a
special tree. Perhaps it was the White Tree and the mournful
protagonist was the King?

Then I got to the unnamed subject of the poem turning to gaze "Into
the west", and saying, "I'm coming, sir", and assumed that, of course,
the grizzled hair belonged to Sam, and tree was the Mallorn he'd
planted from the seed in Galadriel's box, and he was mourning the
death of Rosie. Re-reading I saw you'd practically hung a sign out
right in the first stanza�"In heart that hope, unquenched". Yep, Sam.
Hope Unquenchable!

Having figured things out, this poem was a little too sentimental for
my tastes, but I liked reading it aloud. Like a lot of your poetry,
White Gull, it is very musical. The crafting of words in the next to
the last line, I thought, is very fine. I just love sound and sense of
it. You began with "Arrested, turned his wond'ring gaze/ Into the
west, past end of days", then got to, "For great heart felt
near-quenched hope stir". I love the words you chose there, all
one-syllable, making a series of strong sounds, like audible strokes,
emphatic and somehow `packed', so that one is compelled to slow down
reading them, making the last line that much more effective.

I do think you should add the poem's title (Hope Unquenched) to the
top, though, rather than "White Gull's Nest", which doesn't seem to
have anything to do with it. I am wondering if that is a mistake?


Title: Elrond's Song � Author: White Gull � Genres: Poetry � ID: 409
Reviewer: Mechtild � 2007-12-06 03:44:43
This poem has a lilting but solemn cadence to it, with a pulsing,
regular rhythm that carries the reader forward, almost like being
borne along on a horse. For this reason, and because it seems to tell
the namesake's tale in sum, it seems right to call it a song. I was
moved by the song's depiction, with epic-like brevity, of the deeds of
the Ring-bearer and Elrond's respect for them, and Elrond's love for
their doer.

The second-to-the-last stanza moved me especially. It was all the more
poignant to think of Elrond hoping for Frodo's healing, inviting him
to walk with him and calling him his child, when he knew that once he
was over-Sea his own daughter would be sundered from him forever. That
Elrond was glad that Frodo might be healed before he passed from
Elrond's world�as if Frodo might carry that healing as a gift and sign
to wherever it was that his daughter's doom would be, having chosen a
mortal life--was very moving.

One note on the meter: the pulse of the poem's rhythm is so regular
("Da-di-Da-di-Da-di-Da"�), when that rhythm was departed from ("You
gave me the peace to sail"), I was brought up short. After six stanzas
of the same meter the line felt as though it had a few beats missing,
so that I re-read it a few times to see if I had scanned it
improperly. Was that intentional, to underscore the "peace to sail"
line? If not, that line might be reworked so that it matched the meter
of the rest of the poem.


Title: In the Bleak, Cold Winter � Author: GamgeeFest � Races:
Hobbits: Pre-Quest � ID: 493
Reviewer: Larner � 2007-12-06 06:30:11
Sam's slipped in the garden of Bag End and will be bedridden for some
days while a cast hardens and he heals enough to walk with crutches.
Being cared for by Frodo and Merry Brandybuck, however, isn't as easy
as they'd thought it would be, for Sam's not used to the constant care
gentlehobbits are accustomed to giving those stuck in bed, and Merry
has a past indiscretion to live down.

A sweet look at life in the Shire and developing relationships.

Title: First Among Equals � Author: Tanaqui � Genres: Adventure:
Fixed-Length Ficlet � ID: 564
Reviewer: Larner � 2007-12-06 06:34:39
Two drabbles about Faramir's first battle among the Rangers of
Ithilien. It's not easy killing men for the first time, even if
necessary; but now he has joined the ranks of the defenders of Gondor.

All too realistic look at the life of a young soldier.

Title: Ever in your Arms � Author: White Gull � Races: Cross-Cultural
� ID: 668
Reviewer: Mechtild � 2007-12-06 07:01:08
I thought this title sounded familiar, and, starting to read I found
that I actually had read it a while back, but only the first chapter.
I thought it was complete--and maybe it was at the time--telling the
tale of a last chance for love for Frodo, with an unusual woman,
ending in the conception of a child. It appears, however, that you
went on to write additional vignettes, depicting significant moments
in the intervening (and prequel) years between chapters one and eight.
The middle chapters don't always move from one to another with ease,
and the multiplicity of authorial styles detracts, but they do serve
to flesh out the back-story for the interested reader.

For me, the jewels in this tale are the inset poems. I hope you have
posted them as stand-alones. The poems for Ch. 4, "Ebb and flow of
childhood dreams" is a very fine piece of love poetry, which could be
appreciated without any reference to the story's characters. Likewise,
"Look to me, my love, my lady" is a courtly ballad that woos its
hearer whether one knows it's supposed to be about Beren and L�thien
or not. The poem that opens and closes the piece, appearing in the
first and last chapters, is also extremely good, lyrical, emotionally
resonant and lovely to recite aloud (or sing, should it be set to good
music).

[Not part of the scored review:

Note #1: Your chapter 2, with the intro by Aratlithiel (whose
depiction of these two characters was not very like yours, but I
suppose that's the result of the challenge's intro.), seemed awfully
familiar. I feel as though I have read a close version of this a while
back, but one in which the admirer turned out to be someone else�Merry
or perhaps young-lad Bilbo�I can't remember. I'm wondering if someone
ran off with your chapter! Or was that part of the challenge�to write
a scene with the same opening and premise, but portraying different
characters, that weren't to be revealed until the end?

Note #2: As a convenience to readers, it would be helpful if you put
your chapter numbers and titles at the tops of your entries. Unless
one uses the links on the "Chapter Headings" page, there is nothing to
tell the reader where she is. I came to your story through the
nomination link, which took me directly to what turned out to be
chapter one. Since it came to an end where the story as I knew it
originally ended, I almost didn't go on, only clicking the "Next"
button out of curiosity. The "Next" button sent me to the next
unnamed, unnumbered chapter, and so on. When it came time to review, I
had no way of knowing which chapters my comments came from. I found
the chapter list page, which thankfully had the numbers and titles,
and just kept clicking them open until I found the sequences I was
looking for.]


Title: The End of a Lonely Road � Author: White Gull � Races: Hobbits
� ID: 542
Reviewer: Mechtild � 2007-12-06 08:39:31
[This review contains spoilers.]

I couldn't read past Ch. 3, White Gull, but you mis-introduced this
when you called it a `"might have been" gap-filler'. A gap-filler in
what story? Tolkien wrote of a Shire in which it was scandalous for a
Hobbit even to cheat in a game (cf. Frodo's outrage at Gollum's
behaviour with Bilbo under the Misty Mountains�"Hobbits don't
cheat!"), and in which no Hobbit had intentionally killed another in
memory. Could such a Shire have tolerated much less produced a person
like Rory Pickthorn, who beat his wife and child black and blue (with
bruises folk could see), ran a whore-house out of his ale shop�with
his own daughter as a child-prostitute�and Hobbiton folk *patronized*
it? Surely not.





Title: Friendship of Their Kind � Author: Dwimordene � Times: Early
Third Age: 1-2850 TA � ID: 425
Reviewer: Inkling � 2007-12-06 10:06:44
[spoilers]

There have certainly been some interesting--and wildly
different--responses to the alphabet challenge prompt "D: Like a Very
Dirty Dragon"! Dwimordene's impressive take on it has produced this
brief, intense foray into a dragon's nest by a small group of Rangers.

All babies--even monstrous ones--elicit a certain "Aww" response based
on their helpless, innocent state. But Dwim avoids the pitfall of easy
pathos in this scene. These hatchlings are neither cute nor pathetic,
but merely [scaly little forms]. Yet, like Televor, I couldn't help
but wince as they are dispatched, despite knowing full well that their
deaths are necessary and justified.

This cold-blooded killing provides the central action of the piece,
but that's incidental to its real purpose: to serve as the springboard
for Halandur's unexpected, moving eulogy to fallen foes that forms the
heart of the story. Enemies, even helpless ones such as these, may
deserve no mercy, but they are owed respect--acknowledgement that this
was no fair fight--and even gratitude ["for going ahead"]. This
sentiment is indeed what sets the Rangers apart from those they
oppose--and what elevates this story to something more than simply a
well-written, gripping tale of suspense. It marvelously amplifies the
passage in LOTR that Dwim quotes in her author's notes and that gives
this story its title.

Title: This Present Darkness � Author: Lamiel � Genres: Drama:
Incomplete � ID: 808
Reviewer: crowdaughter � 2007-12-07 01:06:20
I cannot believe that this story has not already been reviewed, for it
is excellent!

This is a powerful AU that is still very much set in possible canon,
and it touches on very, very intense themes. The Aragorn in this story
seems at first sight very different from the Aragorn we know from book
canon, and who is said by the appendices to have been a great and wise
king; in this story, Aragorn has been king only for a few years, and
already he is a controlling, suspicious, increasingly unscrupulous
king, who becomes more and more paranoid, suspects treason and spies
everywhere and does not hesitate to use even the love and trust of his
friends and loved ones (as well as his subjects) against them to reach
his goals. At the same time, he seems to be driven by dark impulses he
barely acknowledges to himself.

And yet, the more disquieting it is to see how very fitting and
possible this very change in Aragorn is indeed, the way it is brought
about in the story, and how much those personality streaks are indeed
grounded in the very personality we know and love from Aragorn in
canon. Indeed, it is Aragorn's wish to protect the ones he loves, to
protect his people, that opens him up for the darkness that threatens
his very soul.

In this Aragorn, Lamiel manages to capture the essence of that quote
of Legolas from Return of the King (The Last Debate): ["In that hour I
looked on Aragorn and thought how great and terrible a Lord he might
have become in the strength of his will, had he taken the Ring to
himself."]; and she pulls her readers directly into the desperate
struggle of Aagorn's friends for his soul.

And while the story unravels, as much as we fear for the soul of
Aragorn, we fear even more for those friends and loved ones - chiefly
among them Arwen and Legolas, Faramir and Eowy, and Gimli, who are
unwilling to give up on Aragorn, and yet are in danger of being hurt
by the more-and-more paranoid king.

On the other hand, there is friendship - Legolas, fighting with all he
is and has for the recovery and rescue of Aragorn's soul, and, at the
same time, never becoming less than the capable, diplomatic, and very
strong elven prince he is. Aragorn's friendship to Legolas, which
manages to keep him tethered on the side of the light for a time.
Until that very friendship turns against Legolas...

Lamiel's powerful craft of story telling draws the readers in and does
not let them up, and the whole scenario she has created here is so
well working, so very believable, that one starts to fear very much
for her characters from the start. I found myself breathless while
following the story, helplessly fearing for the characters, and
sitting on the edge of my seat most of the time. All characters are
carefully crafted, close to canon, recognizable, and come alive in
every single line of the story. This is an alternative universe at its
best, and I have followed it breathlessly so far. This is one of the
best alternative universe stories in LOTR fandom I ever read, and it
is one of my absolute favorites.

Title: A Queen Among Farmers' Wives � Author: Imhiriel � Genres:
Humor: Drabble � ID: 635
Reviewer: Larner � 2007-12-07 01:52:47
Perhaps Farmer Maggot ought not to have indulged in that last drink
with Bombadil--he'd been warned, after all. But there's no question he
loves his wife.

A fun read!

Title: Farewell � Author: Vilwarin � Genres: Drama: With Aragorn � ID: 706
Reviewer: Larner � 2007-12-07 01:59:03
Of the losses known on the field of the Pelennor, for Aragorn the
worst must have been the loss of his kinsman and friend, Halbarad.
This last exchange between the two of them is marvelous.

Title: "Dumpling" � Author: grey_wonderer � Genres: Humor: The Shire
or Buckland � ID: 777
Reviewer: Larner � 2007-12-07 02:08:48
Well, obviously Merry isn't anywhere as intelligent as Dumpling the
Sheep. His first day of a month's long visit isn't shaping up too well.

A wonderful introduction to Grey Wonderer's sheep! Caution, laughter
ahead.

Title: Way Out West � Author: Pearl Took � Genres: Adventure: Pre-Ring
War � ID: 769
Reviewer: Larner � 2007-12-07 02:19:01
Two were headed westward, out of the Shire, intent on seeing the Sea
and perhaps Mithlond itself. Only Mithlond is a secret place, and well
protected. So, when they are found sleeping in sight of the Haven they
are....

A wonderful look at Merry and Pippin's first trip westward, the one
they only remembered years later.

Title: Coda � Author: Imhiriel � Times: Second Age: Drabble � ID: 627
Reviewer: Larner � 2007-12-07 02:22:39
What great treasures given to Elros by those who remained in Middle
Earth were lost when Numenor sank.

A moment of grief and thought, extraordinarily well told.

Title: A Truth Universally Acknowledged � Author: annmarwalk � Genres:
Humor: Gondor or Rohan � ID: 556
Reviewer: Larner � 2007-12-07 02:28:26
What kind of wife does the Steward's heir wish for himself, he who has
a taste for tall, blue-eyed blondes? It is a taste shared by his
cousin, they learn. Not in that ballroom will Boromir find his future
mate, though....

Rather sad, knowing the fate the Captain-General faces, and the
predilictions seen in his nature.

Title: Sweet Memories � Author: PipMer � Races: Hobbits � ID: 272
Reviewer: Larner � 2007-12-07 02:47:25
Frodo's memories, known on the third anniversary of his parents'
death, then shared years later with another who'd lost a parent while
yet a child. And the shared memories help the other accept the Hobbits
as true people in their own right.

Interesting means of meeting a challenge.

Title: No Harm Will Come of It � Author: Marigold � Times: Mid Third
Age: 2851 - 3017 TA: Other Fixed-Length Ficlet � ID: 456
Reviewer: Inkling � 2007-12-07 05:15:12
[spoilers]

This is a delightful series, imagining the Gaffer's changing attitude
toward books from the time he first agrees to let Sam learn his
letters until the Four Travellers have returned. Especially moving are
the drabbles that take place during "The Troubles," when he can puzzle
out enough of the notice to know something ominous is afoot, and later
when reading comes to be both an escape from his plight and a reminder
of his son.

Marigold does a wonderful job of capturing Hamfast's
personality--down-to-earth, a mite suspicious, but above all
practical--and has his voice down pat. I love the understated,
self-deprecating way he lets Frodo and all present know that he, too,
has now learned his letters: ["Thankee kindly Mister Frodo, but might
be I can puzzle it out, with a bit 'o help."]

A most enjoyable read!


Title: Weary Beyond Joy Or Sorrow? � Author: Imhiriel � Times: Late
Third Age: 3018-3022 TA: Gondor Drabble � ID: 671
Reviewer: Linda hoyland � 2007-12-07 07:37:27
[spoilers]
This was deeply moving. The language beautifully conveys Aragorn's
sorrow and weariness. Tolkien does not tell us specifically that
Aragorn grieved for Halbarad,but I am certain he did.

I love Gandalf here too.Aragorn tries to be strong but is wise enough
to know when to accept comfort.

Title: Ever in your Arms � Author: White Gull � Races: Cross-Cultural
� ID: 668
Reviewer: Mechtild � 2007-12-07 12:56:54
[Contains spoilers]

I thought this title sounded familiar.... Starting to read this tale,
I found that I actually had read it a while back, but it consisted
then of only the first chapter, telling of a last chance for love for
Frodo before he sailed, with an unusual woman, ending in the
conception of a child (of which Frodo knew nothing). It appears that
you have gone on to write additional chapters, depicting significant
moments in the intervening (and prequel) years, thus fleshing out the
backstory. The chapters between the original story and the new ending
(2-8) don't always move from one to another with ease, and the
multiplicity of authorial styles detracts a little, but they do
provide enlightening vignettes.

I very much like that you introduced (through your OFC) a strand of
the book's portrayal of what always seemed to me a little crush Frodo
had on Tom Bombadil's wife, the River-daughter. He always seemed
notably starry-eyed in her presense. In pairing him with your OFC, who
bears connections to Goldberry and her "spirit", you allow the reader
to experience a sense of that might-have-been relationship, even if
obliquely.

But, for me, the jewels in this tale are the inset poems. I hope you
have posted them as stand-alones. The poems for Ch. 4, "Ebb and flow
of childhood dreams" is a very fine piece of love poetry, which could
be appreciated without any reference to the story's characters.
Likewise, "Look to me, my love, my lady" is a courtly ballad that woos
its hearers whether othey know it is supposed to be about Beren and
L�thien or not. The poem that opens and closes the piece, appearing in
Chs. 1 and 9, "Round me joyful flowers gleam", is also extremely good:
lyrical, emotionally resonant and a pleasure to recite (or sing, if it
were set to good music).



Title: Stranger in a strange land � Author: Tanaqui � Races: Men:
General Drabble � ID: 695
Reviewer: Imhiriel � 2007-12-07 21:01:25
This drabble is very evocative; it skilfully and flowingly appeals to
all the senses. It uses vocabulary and structure very purposefully to
highlight just the most effective and indicative details of the scene.

The heat and dust of the desert is caputured very vividly, as well as
the glare of the still sun unrelieved by the slighted breeze.

I think this conveys very well Aragorn's mood and his emotions as he
is "forced" to sit through an endless pageant because of diplomatic
necessity, made worse by a headache.

I like the "double flashback" structure of the drabble. First, Aragorn
thinks back on his memories as an anonymous wanderer during his past
journeys to Harad. It is left open which of the two scenarios he
actually prefers, but in any case, neither one can compete in his mind
with the life that Strider experienced in the cool environment of
Arnor and the simple but hearty fare of Butterbur's kitchen.

Title: And We Will Travel North � Author: bewize � Times: Mid Third
Age: 2851 - 3017 TA: Drabble � ID: 39
Reviewer: Imhiriel � 2007-12-07 21:01:40
The twins' commitment to Estel to be his ["brothers of the heart and
brothers at arms"] is conveyed very movingly.

I like that this drabble lets them explore the other part of their
heritage; that it is not Estel who is trying to become one of the
Elves among whom he grew up, but that the two (Half-)Elves try to
follow the ways of Men for a time.

Title: Remembering Anew � Author: Pearl Took � Times: Fourth Age and
Beyond � ID: 88
Reviewer: Imhiriel � 2007-12-07 21:01:54
Good characterisations of both canon and original characters, and
well-written drama and suspense.

The thought-provoking themes of how history may be distorted all out
of proportion by time and neglect, and of fighting against ideology,
censorship, and oppression of free thinking is developed very
poignantly (and sometimes painfully).

The picture you draw of Hobbit society as parochial, prejudiced, and
condemning and persecuting even with violence and a farce of a trial
everything that even *dares* to challenge established opinions was a
real shock, because it showed how some negative traits already known
from the trilogy could increase all out of proportion and be taken to
a *very* ugly extreme.

Title: Snare � Author: Ruby Nye � Times: Late Third Age: 3018-3022 TA
� ID: 539
Reviewer: Imhiriel � 2007-12-07 21:02:10
Chillingly evocative descriptions. Very good use of PoV; I was
shuddering and my skin was crawling right alongside Pervinca.

A remarkable portrait of the strength and determination of a Hobbit
during the Troubles; and that she is Pippin's sister is the icing on
the cake - in her own way, she is just as courageous as he is.

She shows extraordinary fortitude and bravery to purposefully expose
herself to the sickening attentions of the Ruffians to see through
some plan - and I dearly hope that plan contains the timely rescue of
herself! The purposefuly vage details of the plan and the open ending
certainly enables a wide range of speculation of what exactly will happen.

Title: Night Terrors � Author: Tanaqui � Times: Mid Third Age: 2851 -
3017 TA: Drabble � ID: 752
Reviewer: Imhiriel � 2007-12-07 21:02:26
I was smiling all through this drabble - little Estel was really
adorable, but not in an overblown way. It was so funny - and so
typical of all children, for him, a bath a day was quite sufficient.
Never mind where - wet is wet, isn't it? - and nevermind what
adventures he might have afterwards where he might acquire new mud and
dirt.

But even more did I enjoy this brief glimpse of Gilraen as the brisk,
no-nonsense mother, who lets her child run free, without letting him
run wild.

The line about ["the Last King and the Snowmen"] was a brilliant touch
of hinting at the history and heritage of this little boy.

Title: Brotherhood � Author: Bodkin � Genres: Drama: Incomplete � ID: 733
Reviewer: Imhiriel � 2007-12-07 21:02:50
This is a moving, by turns tender, amusing or thought-provoking look
at how Gilraen and Estel acclimatise into Rivendell, to slowly become
part of the family. The different registers of mood are balanced very
well.

The main focus are the characters, and all of them, their interaction
among each other, as well as the growing relationship, are captured
marvellously, in a nuanced and believable way. I especially liked the
characterisations of Gilraen and Elrond, and their developing bond.

The differences between Men and Elves are brought out in precise,
insightful comparison, and often described in very vivid and
resonating imagery.

The problems of Estel as the only child of Men in Imladris, and of
having to raise him in secrecy both towards others and towards himself
while simultanenously preparing him for his future role as the leader
of his people are expressed very incisively, and I appreciate it that
you forego facile answers or solution.

Although the story focusses mostly on the characters, the environments
become nevertheless real through succinct, evocative descriptions,
highlighting just the right details to paint a complete picture of the
scenery.

Title: Tales of the Innkeeper � Author: Allee � Genres: Drama:
Incomplete � ID: 237
Reviewer: Imhiriel � 2007-12-07 21:03:03
Vivid narrative voice; addressing the readers directly as if they were
part of the audience fit in the story's context.

I liked this look at Aragorn from someone *not* close to him.

Title: Elf Interrupted � Author: Fiondil � Races: Elves: Incomplete �
ID: 77
Reviewer: Imhiriel � 2007-12-07 21:03:52
This is a sprawling, richly detailed epic, which holds the interest of
its readers despite its length.

There is suspense, drama, adventure, humour and philosophical
explorations aplenty; plot(s) and themes fit together well to form a
well-structured unit.

The characterisations are consistently good, and the great host of
canon and original characters is well-handled; each one distinctive,
not only regarding the culture they belong to, but also as individuals
(although I'm looking forward to the promised character list *g*).

But even though Glorfindel and Finrod might be the principal
characters, the most impressive portrayals, IMO, are those of the Valar.

Your Valar are wonderful, sympathetic characters (first and foremost
N�mo), going from majestic and awe-inspiring to caring, fun-loving, or
even humbly serving. I also like the way you portray their community,
how they confer, assist, and tease each other.

Occasionally, the tendency of the Elves to bolt precipitously when
upset or startled seems a little overdone, but mostly fits well into
the context.

Title: Daybreak � Author: Raksha the Demon � Times: Late Third Age:
3018-3022 TA: Gondor Drabble � ID: 705
Reviewer: Imhiriel � 2007-12-07 21:04:47
I liked how the immensely eventful and world-changing preceding day
gets summarised in two short sections - yet the reader get a full
picture, not only of what is known to have happened from canon, but
also the revelry afterwards - and it must have truly been a revely, to
give Faramir such a hangover *g*!

But my favourite image is that of Faramir looking ["for the first time
upon a dawn free of Shadow"], and his palpable joy at this discovery.

Title: Bitter Springs � Author: Dwimordene � Times: Mid Third Age:
2851 - 3017 TA � ID: 634
Reviewer: Imhiriel � 2007-12-07 21:05:35
I like how the setting of the scene is used to lead into the theme of
the story.

The dire situation Th�odred lays out is clearly conveyed, despite (or
because) his matter-of-fact tone, the underlying implications are
subtly hinted at.

The emotions are captured well, the frustration at seeing clearly and
not being able to do something against it, at being actively balked.
At having to scurry in secret to protect the land, to use deceit to
wrest some small crumbs of advantage past spying eyes.

The most haunting part is, perhaps, that even though Th�odred suspects
Gr�ma's motives, and feels there is something rotten in the state of
Rohan (to quote The Bard *g*), he still can't quite put two and two
together, and is further hampered by loyalty to his King and father. I
wonder if he realised the truth, and the extent of Gr�ma's and
Saruman's plot before he fell.

I loved the brief mention of H�ma's loyalty.

Title: Circumstantial Heroes � Author: Gwynnyd � Genres: Drama: Minas
Tirith � ID: 684
Reviewer: stefaniab � 2007-12-08 00:55:06
"Circumstantial Heroes' is a multi-layered tale that examines the
different aspects of heroism, as illustrated in a fateful
incident--the skirmish that arose around the pyre of Denethor. The
story's framework is a conversation between Aragorn, the newly
coronated King Elessar, and Pippin, who quickly has a bit too much
miruvar.

The heroism of the parties involved is examined: Beregond, who
disobeys Denethor in an effort to save Faramir's life, the OC
Brithnir, a Tower Guardsman who obeys all orders without questioning,
the former majordomo Hithdol, and Pippin himself. The result is a
thoughtful piece about the nature and politics of heroism in Middle
Earth and in any age.

Title: All in a Day's Work � Author: Gwynnyd � Genres: Adventure:
Fixed-Length Ficlet � ID: 421
Reviewer: stefaniab � 2007-12-08 01:05:52
Ah hah, a brief tale that fulfills my love of nautical adventure.
Gwyndd's ficlet group tells of a Corsair attack on Dol Amroth, from
the point of view of the various Gondorians involved. Events unfold
from the perspective of a simple farmer, a marine, the ship's captain,
down to Prince Imrahil, himself. The result is an exciting set that
keeps the action flowing.

Hi all,

Just letting you know that "Elf Interrupted: Book One: Glorfindel
Redux" is now COMPLETE. There will be a Book Two, so don't freak out!

Thanks.

Fiondil

Title: A Truth Universally Acknowledged � Author: annmarwalk � Genres:
Humor: Gondor or Rohan � ID: 556
Reviewer: Isabeau of Greenlea � 2007-12-08 13:38:01
Heh heh! Matchmaking Lothiriel makes an appearance here, as she tried
to persuade her cousin Boromir to do his dynastic duty. Unfortunately,
she finds that there's no spark of romance in the Captain-General-one
woman would do as well as another as far as he's concerned, only he
doesn't have time to court any of them! Faramir is a highly
entertained observer here, but he's not the current object of
Lothiriel's matchmaking urges! A cute, short piece which does indeed
make a nod to Austen. I loved that both Boromir and Lothiriel admitted
a taste for tall, blue-eyed blondes!

Title: Coda � Author: Imhiriel � Times: Second Age: Drabble � ID: 627
Reviewer: Isabeau of Greenlea � 2007-12-08 13:42:17
In a short hundred words, Imhiriel manages to convey the utter, tragic
waste that was the downfall of Numenor by describing only one of the
many irreplaceable works of art that were destroyed. And the irony is
that the wisdom conveyed by this particular work was obviously ignored.

Title: Blooded � Author: Raksha the Demon � Genres: Drama: Youth � ID: 3
Reviewer: Isabeau of Greenlea � 2007-12-08 13:47:55
A beautiful short story describing Faramir's reaction after his first
battle. His other young companions one and all seem to be unmoved by
the larger implications of what they've done-they boast of their
newl-found prowess and of further kills to come. But Faramir, poet and
musician, takes no enjoyment in the killing, reflecting upon how he
wishes he could remain in Minas Tirith with his lute, and
acknowledging that his position makes that impossible. A life of
killing stretches before him, and he regards that future with little
enthusiasm. Young Faramir is very well drawn here.

Title: Dawning Hope: A Day Out � Author: Radbooks � Times: Mid Third
Age: 2851 - 3017 TA � ID: 659
Reviewer: obsidianj � 2007-12-08 20:04:28
[spoilers]
Shortly after Eomer and Eowyn moved to Edoras, their cousin Theodred
spends an afternoon out riding with them. What starts out as harmless
fun and a getting to know experience between the cousins turns dark
when Eomer gets wounded. I like the way these three are characterized
here. Eomer and Eowyn as young children let already see glimpses of
what they will become, although they are fairly subdued because of the
upheaval in their lives. Theodred gets experience in watching his
young cousins, although he gets more than he bargained for.

Title: Stirrings of Shadow � Author: Fiondil � Genres: Adventure:
Incomplete � ID: 233
Reviewer: obsidianj � 2007-12-08 21:06:01
This story tells of Aragorn's years in service to Thengel. In this
tale he travels with a cousin and it seems common for Rangers of the
North to take up service in Rohan. Aragorn's youth, his lack of
fluency in the Rohirric language, and his superior skill in sword
fighting gets him into trouble with some of the more close minded
Rohirrim. It takes him a while to earn the respect of the other
riders, although Thengel likes and supports him and Aragorn can show
his loyalty and support for the king when there is a rebellion in Rohan.
Where Aragorn goes, elves are bound to show up, if just to check that
he does not get into trouble. I like the strangeness of the elves in
this tale contrasted with the down to earth and "normal" behavior of
the humans. The elves in this tale are not like very wise, old humans.
Their behavior is kind of unpredictable for the Rohirrim, which
explains the respect and fear they have for them. The tale has a
richly drawn cast of original characters. I especially like Widfara a
young Rohirric rider and one of the closest friends Aragorn makes
among the Rohirrim.

Title: Gentlemen's Night Out � Author: Oshun � Genres: Humor: Gondor
or Rohan � ID: 181
Reviewer: obsidianj � 2007-12-08 21:06:59
This is a funny letter. I think Erchirion is brave to sent a letter
like that to his son. I loved the prank the Mirkwood elves played on
their newly growing up friends. But leave it to Legolas to not just
let it rest with that one article, but go on searching until he found
more on the subject. That should teach his comrades.

Title: Future Imperfect � Author: Tanaqui � Times: Mid Third Age: 2851
- 3017 TA � ID: 749
Reviewer: obsidianj � 2007-12-08 21:08:45
[spoilers]
That was an interesting conversation Faramir listened to unseen. It is
kind of chilling to listen to father and grandfather thinking of where
to post their children and grandchildren. I think Denethor has the
right of it, though, when he thinks into the future. When Faramir is
supposed to lead Gondor's armies when Boromir becomes Steward, he
needs experience in leading ground troops and not ships. The only flaw
in Denethor's thinking I think is that it leaves out any preference of
Faramir himself. Would he be better as a ship captain or as an army
captain? Adrahil thinks he might make a good ship captain, but his
motivation that that might be a safer position is also flawed. I like
the way you portrayed both Denethor and Adrahil in this piece. This is
the Denethor before he despaired, a hard but noble man and cunning
leader of Gondor.

Title: It Is Custom � Author: Mar'isu � Races: Cross-Cultural: The
Fellowship � ID: 820
Reviewer: obsidianj � 2007-12-08 21:56:39
The cultural differences between the races once more come to the fore
in this short story. It must be strange for Boromir to hear that the
hobbits don't know battle and therefore can't understand Boromir's way
of seeking solace after one. I like the way the customs differ
according to the background of the different members of the Fellowship.

Title: Diversion � Author: Mar'isu � Times: Late Third Age: 3018-3022
TA: General Drabble � ID: 708
Reviewer: obsidianj � 2007-12-08 22:17:34
Oh, so that's what Glorfindel is doing to help the Fellowship. That is
a clever ploy. Alas, I'm not sure how long the enemy will take to find
out that the ring is not where he would expect it.

Title: Droplets � Author: Dawn Felagund � Times: Multi-Age:
Fixed-Length Ficlet � ID: 566
Reviewer: obsidianj � 2007-12-08 22:18:51
This series of ficlets highlights the tragic of Elrond's life.
Everyone deserts him, whether by choice or not. At least in the end he
finds Celebrian again. I always knew that Elrond had lots of losses
through the ages, but this ficlet series brings the pertinent stations
of his life in sharp relief. I especially liked the good-bye to
Celebrian. That was very touching.

Title: Blessed by Il�vatar � Author: White Wolf � Genres: Drama: Elves
in Later Ages � ID: 485
Reviewer: Larner � 2007-12-09 01:27:09
Death and loss, birth and renewal--the themes of this story as we see
the circumstances surrounding the birth of Legolas and how he came to
learn of the older brother who was killed by the Enemy's creatures
before he was born.

Title: Mistaken Identities � Author: Greywing � Races: Elves � ID: 201
Reviewer: Larner � 2007-12-09 01:40:10
So, now we know--the Greek gods were those of the Eldar who stayed
behind. And the one identified as Artemis was glorious; and the one as
Aphrodite!

I am still giggling at this wonderful explanation as to how it all
came to be.

Title: Multicultural Interactions � Author: annmarwalk � Races:
Cross-Cultural: Gondor � ID: 18
Reviewer: Larner � 2007-12-09 01:52:29
The first encounter between Elboron son of Faramir and Elanor Gardner
was a bit--rough? But they found themselves remembering tales told by
fathers of the other's father, and are now set for a marvelous
friendship, I believe.

Title: The Stranger � Author: mistycracraft � Races: Men: Eriador or
Rivendell � ID: 89
Reviewer: Larner � 2007-12-09 02:05:56
Ah--so this story was nominated, too? Excellent! I've already done one
of the sequel--now to the original tale.

Was he an assassin? Surely one who lived by the sword, the
dark-featured Man with the watchful gaze and travel-stained cloak in
the corner. But when he smiles----

Edric's first meeting with Strider the Ranger, and his realization
that this is not as forbidding an individual as he'd thought.

Excellent evocation of atmosphere.

Title: An Alphabet for Middle-earth � Author: Dreamflower � Races:
Cross-Cultural � ID: 231
Reviewer: Larner � 2007-12-09 02:10:59
Dreamflower's response to last year's HASA Advent calendar challenge
was so marvelous! A wonderful collection of shorts on each letter of
the alphabet.

Title: No Harm Will Come of It � Author: Marigold � Times: Mid Third
Age: 2851 - 3017 TA: Other Fixed-Length Ficlet � ID: 456
Reviewer: Dreamflower � 2007-12-09 02:48:56
This is a really elegant series of drabbles, telling an unexpected story.

[spoilers] We all know that the Gaffer was illiterate. Or was he? In
these lovely drabbles, Marigold explores the idea that perhaps Hamfast
knew a bit more than he let on, listening in to young Samwise's
lessons. I loved the gradual build-up to the ending, as with each
segment, the Gaffer goes a bit further.

Beautiful!

Title: Rohan's Future � Author: Madeleine � Genres: Humor: Gondor or
Rohan � ID: 79
Reviewer: Dreamflower � 2007-12-09 02:49:12
This story had me laughing myself sick! Poor Amrothos, having to
babysit the royal princes of Rohan--offspring of his sister and Eomer,
and filled with all the more intractable qualities of each parent.

It was clear from the start that the smug Amrothos has finally met his
match in this group of unruly lads, who are by turns, mischievous,
curious, "helpful" and impulsive! It's a wonder he survived to give
them back to their parents!

Amazing! And it's going to be very interesting one day to see these
boys all grown up and in charge of the country. Will they ever be able
to live down the ignominy of nearly burning down the Royal Stables?

Title: The Waves' Song � Author: Branwyn � Genres: Drama: General
Drabble � ID: 6
Reviewer: Dreamflower � 2007-12-09 02:49:30
Very melancholy, as suits the subject; vivid imagery, it blends the
two loves of the Elves--trees, and the sea.

Title: Bathing Boromir � Author: Marta � Genres: Humor: Drabble � ID: 645
Reviewer: Dreamflower � 2007-12-09 02:49:50
*Chuckle* A good answer to the "B" prompt of the challenge, it was a
very cute scenario! I love Ioreth standing guard againse hordes of
eager apprentices!

Title: Poking The Badger � Author: grey_wonderer � Genres: Humor: The
Shire or Buckland � ID: 209
Reviewer: Dreamflower � 2007-12-09 02:50:22
*grin* I do love the interaction between GW's Merry and Pippin,
especially the little post-Quest stories set at Crickhollow. In this
one it's Merry who is being a bit unreasonably touchy over some
aspects of their return home, and Pippin who manages, in his own
unique way, to help his cousin put a bit of perspective on things.

One of the things I love about GW's Pippin is that he is so much
sharper than anyone realizes, because he tends to look at things in a
very different way.

An adorable story.

Title: Bilbo's Gifts � Author: Llinos/Marigold CoAuthors � Races:
Hobbits: Children � ID: 207
Reviewer: Dreamflower � 2007-12-09 02:50:43
These were adorable ficlets! In each of them Bilbo showed his
generosity and perspicacity--but I have to say that my favorite was
the one about Merry, who even as a faunt is already showing his
ingenuity, precociousness and determination.

Title: Crossing towards Sunrise � Author: Imhiriel � Times: Fourth Age
and Beyond � ID: 14
Reviewer: Dreamflower � 2007-12-09 02:51:09
It's so very seldom that we get really *good* fic from Gandalf's POV.
JRRT was very cagey about it, and it seems most fic writers shy away
from it. But this story shows his compassion so clearly, as we see his
observations of Elrond on that voyage to the West. His love and
friendship shine through, though Elrond is not capable of taking much
notice of it.

I also enjoy Bilbo in this. He's another who is very observant, and he
too tries in his own inimitable and hobbity way, to show his love for
this Elven-lord who gave him refuge for so many years.

And the final reunion of Elrond with his beloved was so touching.

Title: Stricken From the Book � Author: Larner � Genres: Drama: The
Shire � ID: 348
Reviewer: Linda hoyland � 2007-12-09 03:55:07
Poor Frodo to have so much to deal with when he felt so ill and then
to strike himself from the book !The writer portrays his suffering
well and draws the reader into the poor Hobbit's plight..



Title: Heart of Lamedon � Author: Nancy Brooke � Races: Men: Gondor
Drabble � ID: 288
Reviewer: Linda hoyland � 2007-12-09 04:04:14
An interesting glimpse of the Lord of Lamedon, the only lord of Gondor
brave enough to follow Aragorn and the ghostly army.It seems the noble
lord has long awaited this moment.

Title: Forcing a Path � Author: Linaewen � Genres: Drama: The
Fellowship � ID: 400
Reviewer: Linda hoyland � 2007-12-09 04:20:27
I think this would be an excellent story to read in a heatwave as the
snow is so well described !This truly made me feel what it must have
been like for Aragorn and Boromir on the mountain. Two truly brave men!

Title: A Truth Universally Acknowledged � Author: annmarwalk � Genres:
Humor: Gondor or Rohan � ID: 556
Reviewer: Isabeau of Greenlea � 2007-12-08 13:38:01
Heh heh! Matchmaking Lothiriel makes an appearance here, as she tried
to persuade her cousin Boromir to do his dynastic duty. Unfortunately,
she finds that there's no spark of romance in the Captain-General-one
woman would do as well as another as far as he's concerned, only he
doesn't have time to court any of them! Faramir is a highly
entertained observer here, but he's not the current object of
Lothiriel's matchmaking urges! A cute, short piece which does indeed
make a nod to Austen. I loved that both Boromir and Lothiriel admitted
a taste for tall, blue-eyed blondes!

Title: Coda � Author: Imhiriel � Times: Second Age: Drabble � ID: 627
Reviewer: Isabeau of Greenlea � 2007-12-08 13:42:17
In a short hundred words, Imhiriel manages to convey the utter, tragic
waste that was the downfall of Numenor by describing only one of the
many irreplaceable works of art that were destroyed. And the irony is
that the wisdom conveyed by this particular work was obviously ignored.

Title: Blooded � Author: Raksha the Demon � Genres: Drama: Youth � ID: 3
Reviewer: Isabeau of Greenlea � 2007-12-08 13:47:55
A beautiful short story describing Faramir's reaction after his first
battle. His other young companions one and all seem to be unmoved by
the larger implications of what they've done-they boast of their
newl-found prowess and of further kills to come. But Faramir, poet and
musician, takes no enjoyment in the killing, reflecting upon how he
wishes he could remain in Minas Tirith with his lute, and
acknowledging that his position makes that impossible. A life of
killing stretches before him, and he regards that future with little
enthusiasm. Young Faramir is very well drawn here.

Title: Dawning Hope: A Day Out � Author: Radbooks � Times: Mid Third
Age: 2851 - 3017 TA � ID: 659
Reviewer: obsidianj � 2007-12-08 20:04:28
[spoilers]
Shortly after Eomer and Eowyn moved to Edoras, their cousin Theodred
spends an afternoon out riding with them. What starts out as harmless
fun and a getting to know experience between the cousins turns dark
when Eomer gets wounded. I like the way these three are characterized
here. Eomer and Eowyn as young children let already see glimpses of
what they will become, although they are fairly subdued because of the
upheaval in their lives. Theodred gets experience in watching his
young cousins, although he gets more than he bargained for.

Title: Stirrings of Shadow � Author: Fiondil � Genres: Adventure:
Incomplete � ID: 233
Reviewer: obsidianj � 2007-12-08 21:06:01
This story tells of Aragorn's years in service to Thengel. In this
tale he travels with a cousin and it seems common for Rangers of the
North to take up service in Rohan. Aragorn's youth, his lack of
fluency in the Rohirric language, and his superior skill in sword
fighting gets him into trouble with some of the more close minded
Rohirrim. It takes him a while to earn the respect of the other
riders, although Thengel likes and supports him and Aragorn can show
his loyalty and support for the king when there is a rebellion in Rohan.
Where Aragorn goes, elves are bound to show up, if just to check that
he does not get into trouble. I like the strangeness of the elves in
this tale contrasted with the down to earth and "normal" behavior of
the humans. The elves in this tale are not like very wise, old humans.
Their behavior is kind of unpredictable for the Rohirrim, which
explains the respect and fear they have for them. The tale has a
richly drawn cast of original characters. I especially like Widfara a
young Rohirric rider and one of the closest friends Aragorn makes
among the Rohirrim.

Title: Gentlemen's Night Out � Author: Oshun � Genres: Humor: Gondor
or Rohan � ID: 181
Reviewer: obsidianj � 2007-12-08 21:06:59
This is a funny letter. I think Erchirion is brave to sent a letter
like that to his son. I loved the prank the Mirkwood elves played on
their newly growing up friends. But leave it to Legolas to not just
let it rest with that one article, but go on searching until he found
more on the subject. That should teach his comrades.

Title: Future Imperfect � Author: Tanaqui � Times: Mid Third Age: 2851
- 3017 TA � ID: 749
Reviewer: obsidianj � 2007-12-08 21:08:45
[spoilers]
That was an interesting conversation Faramir listened to unseen. It is
kind of chilling to listen to father and grandfather thinking of where
to post their children and grandchildren. I think Denethor has the
right of it, though, when he thinks into the future. When Faramir is
supposed to lead Gondor's armies when Boromir becomes Steward, he
needs experience in leading ground troops and not ships. The only flaw
in Denethor's thinking I think is that it leaves out any preference of
Faramir himself. Would he be better as a ship captain or as an army
captain? Adrahil thinks he might make a good ship captain, but his
motivation that that might be a safer position is also flawed. I like
the way you portrayed both Denethor and Adrahil in this piece. This is
the Denethor before he despaired, a hard but noble man and cunning
leader of Gondor.

Title: It Is Custom � Author: Mar'isu � Races: Cross-Cultural: The
Fellowship � ID: 820
Reviewer: obsidianj � 2007-12-08 21:56:39
The cultural differences between the races once more come to the fore
in this short story. It must be strange for Boromir to hear that the
hobbits don't know battle and therefore can't understand Boromir's way
of seeking solace after one. I like the way the customs differ
according to the background of the different members of the Fellowship.

Title: Diversion � Author: Mar'isu � Times: Late Third Age: 3018-3022
TA: General Drabble � ID: 708
Reviewer: obsidianj � 2007-12-08 22:17:34
Oh, so that's what Glorfindel is doing to help the Fellowship. That is
a clever ploy. Alas, I'm not sure how long the enemy will take to find
out that the ring is not where he would expect it.

Title: Droplets � Author: Dawn Felagund � Times: Multi-Age:
Fixed-Length Ficlet � ID: 566
Reviewer: obsidianj � 2007-12-08 22:18:51
This series of ficlets highlights the tragic of Elrond's life.
Everyone deserts him, whether by choice or not. At least in the end he
finds Celebrian again. I always knew that Elrond had lots of losses
through the ages, but this ficlet series brings the pertinent stations
of his life in sharp relief. I especially liked the good-bye to
Celebrian. That was very touching.

Title: Blessed by Il�vatar � Author: White Wolf � Genres: Drama: Elves
in Later Ages � ID: 485
Reviewer: Larner � 2007-12-09 01:27:09
Death and loss, birth and renewal--the themes of this story as we see
the circumstances surrounding the birth of Legolas and how he came to
learn of the older brother who was killed by the Enemy's creatures
before he was born.

Title: Mistaken Identities � Author: Greywing � Races: Elves � ID: 201
Reviewer: Larner � 2007-12-09 01:40:10
So, now we know--the Greek gods were those of the Eldar who stayed
behind. And the one identified as Artemis was glorious; and the one as
Aphrodite!

I am still giggling at this wonderful explanation as to how it all
came to be.

Title: Multicultural Interactions � Author: annmarwalk � Races:
Cross-Cultural: Gondor � ID: 18
Reviewer: Larner � 2007-12-09 01:52:29
The first encounter between Elboron son of Faramir and Elanor Gardner
was a bit--rough? But they found themselves remembering tales told by
fathers of the other's father, and are now set for a marvelous
friendship, I believe.

Title: The Stranger � Author: mistycracraft � Races: Men: Eriador or
Rivendell � ID: 89
Reviewer: Larner � 2007-12-09 02:05:56
Ah--so this story was nominated, too? Excellent! I've already done one
of the sequel--now to the original tale.

Was he an assassin? Surely one who lived by the sword, the
dark-featured Man with the watchful gaze and travel-stained cloak in
the corner. But when he smiles----

Edric's first meeting with Strider the Ranger, and his realization
that this is not as forbidding an individual as he'd thought.

Excellent evocation of atmosphere.

Title: An Alphabet for Middle-earth � Author: Dreamflower � Races:
Cross-Cultural � ID: 231
Reviewer: Larner � 2007-12-09 02:10:59
Dreamflower's response to last year's HASA Advent calendar challenge
was so marvelous! A wonderful collection of shorts on each letter of
the alphabet.

Title: No Harm Will Come of It � Author: Marigold � Times: Mid Third
Age: 2851 - 3017 TA: Other Fixed-Length Ficlet � ID: 456
Reviewer: Dreamflower � 2007-12-09 02:48:56
This is a really elegant series of drabbles, telling an unexpected story.

[spoilers] We all know that the Gaffer was illiterate. Or was he? In
these lovely drabbles, Marigold explores the idea that perhaps Hamfast
knew a bit more than he let on, listening in to young Samwise's
lessons. I loved the gradual build-up to the ending, as with each
segment, the Gaffer goes a bit further.

Beautiful!

Title: Rohan's Future � Author: Madeleine � Genres: Humor: Gondor or
Rohan � ID: 79
Reviewer: Dreamflower � 2007-12-09 02:49:12
This story had me laughing myself sick! Poor Amrothos, having to
babysit the royal princes of Rohan--offspring of his sister and Eomer,
and filled with all the more intractable qualities of each parent.

It was clear from the start that the smug Amrothos has finally met his
match in this group of unruly lads, who are by turns, mischievous,
curious, "helpful" and impulsive! It's a wonder he survived to give
them back to their parents!

Amazing! And it's going to be very interesting one day to see these
boys all grown up and in charge of the country. Will they ever be able
to live down the ignominy of nearly burning down the Royal Stables?

Title: The Waves' Song � Author: Branwyn � Genres: Drama: General
Drabble � ID: 6
Reviewer: Dreamflower � 2007-12-09 02:49:30
Very melancholy, as suits the subject; vivid imagery, it blends the
two loves of the Elves--trees, and the sea.

Title: Bathing Boromir � Author: Marta � Genres: Humor: Drabble � ID: 645
Reviewer: Dreamflower � 2007-12-09 02:49:50
*Chuckle* A good answer to the "B" prompt of the challenge, it was a
very cute scenario! I love Ioreth standing guard againse hordes of
eager apprentices!

Title: Poking The Badger � Author: grey_wonderer � Genres: Humor: The
Shire or Buckland � ID: 209
Reviewer: Dreamflower � 2007-12-09 02:50:22
*grin* I do love the interaction between GW's Merry and Pippin,
especially the little post-Quest stories set at Crickhollow. In this
one it's Merry who is being a bit unreasonably touchy over some
aspects of their return home, and Pippin who manages, in his own
unique way, to help his cousin put a bit of perspective on things.

One of the things I love about GW's Pippin is that he is so much
sharper than anyone realizes, because he tends to look at things in a
very different way.

An adorable story.

Title: Bilbo's Gifts � Author: Llinos/Marigold CoAuthors � Races:
Hobbits: Children � ID: 207
Reviewer: Dreamflower � 2007-12-09 02:50:43
These were adorable ficlets! In each of them Bilbo showed his
generosity and perspicacity--but I have to say that my favorite was
the one about Merry, who even as a faunt is already showing his
ingenuity, precociousness and determination.

Title: Crossing towards Sunrise � Author: Imhiriel � Times: Fourth Age
and Beyond � ID: 14
Reviewer: Dreamflower � 2007-12-09 02:51:09
It's so very seldom that we get really *good* fic from Gandalf's POV.
JRRT was very cagey about it, and it seems most fic writers shy away
from it. But this story shows his compassion so clearly, as we see his
observations of Elrond on that voyage to the West. His love and
friendship shine through, though Elrond is not capable of taking much
notice of it.

I also enjoy Bilbo in this. He's another who is very observant, and he
too tries in his own inimitable and hobbity way, to show his love for
this Elven-lord who gave him refuge for so many years.

And the final reunion of Elrond with his beloved was so touching.

Title: Stricken From the Book � Author: Larner � Genres: Drama: The
Shire � ID: 348
Reviewer: Linda hoyland � 2007-12-09 03:55:07
Poor Frodo to have so much to deal with when he felt so ill and then
to strike himself from the book !The writer portrays his suffering
well and draws the reader into the poor Hobbit's plight..



Title: Heart of Lamedon � Author: Nancy Brooke � Races: Men: Gondor
Drabble � ID: 288
Reviewer: Linda hoyland � 2007-12-09 04:04:14
An interesting glimpse of the Lord of Lamedon, the only lord of Gondor
brave enough to follow Aragorn and the ghostly army.It seems the noble
lord has long awaited this moment.

Title: Forcing a Path � Author: Linaewen � Genres: Drama: The
Fellowship � ID: 400
Reviewer: Linda hoyland � 2007-12-09 04:20:27
I think this would be an excellent story to read in a heatwave as the
snow is so well described !This truly made me feel what it must have
been like for Aragorn and Boromir on the mountain. Two truly brave men!

Title: 13th Birthday � Author: stefaniab � Races: Men: Gondor � ID: 138
Reviewer: NeumeIndil � 2007-12-09 06:43:22
I like your Denethor; distant perhaps, but still human, not the cold
hearted madman seen in the movies. He's much more like a real father.
Nicely done.

Title: Reunion � Author: Fawsley � Times: Fourth Age and Beyond:
Drabble � ID: 489
Reviewer: White Wolf � 2007-12-09 08:06:30
Despite Falborn's age, it's nice to see he still remembers Thorongil.
I imagine Aragorn will be happy to see the old soldier, as well.

Title: Fell Beasts � Author: Tanaqui � Races: Villains: Drabble � ID: 403
Reviewer: White Wolf � 2007-12-09 08:15:57
The power of darkness just oozes throughout this deliciously dark
drabble. It easily gives one the shivers.

Title: And Happily Ever After (A Romantic Interlude) � Author: Unsung
Heroine � Genres: Romance: Second Age or Earlier � ID: 643
Reviewer: Rhapsody � 2007-12-09 10:33:01
[this review might contain spoilers]

I read this story a couple of weeks ago and I felt most inclined to
read it again. What a marvellous concept! There are a few things that
make this story a treat to read:

The characters are well-rounded and despite that in Tolkien's books
not much is said about the characters and their motivations, the
author gives us that in these short, but richly written fragments
which at its turn provides us a well rounded short work. Caranthir is
torn between what is decent and what not, Haleth brings out that
daredevil in him, giving the elf at his turn the role of the loving
caretaker which we don't see often in fanfic.

This brings me to the following: the scenes are painted in words,
providing the details for an environment that leaves it up for a
reader how to the interpreted it. Every scene feels like an interlude
with crisp and engaging dialogue, narrative that moves the story
gently along. The scene at the end is I think my favourite of all: it
is so immensely powerful written.

This short work is full of undertones of each character's motivation
shine through brilliantly: the wanting vs needing, duty vs free will,
curiosity vs knowing, it all passes and no matter how often you read
it again, it still leaves you wondering and musing about that which is
not said directly. Implicitness well used Unsung Heroine, this is a
most sensual and romantic story, making you wish that this might have
been is canonical indeed!

Hi Fiondil,

Thanks for letting me know. I've changed the title and its status so it
now displays as finished.

I want to discuss with the other volunteers where the best place to move
it is, and I'll reply here again when we've decided where to place it.

Marta

elhanan_austin wrote:

>
>
> Hi all,
>
> Just letting you know that "Elf Interrupted: Book One: Glorfindel
> Redux" is now COMPLETE. There will be a Book Two, so don't freak out!
>
> Thanks.
>
> Fiondil
>

Title: Cophetua � Author: Jael � Genres: Romance � ID: 242
Reviewer: crowdaughter � 2007-12-09 15:14:46
This is a wonderful, many-layered and thoughtful variation of a
Thranduil/OFC pairing, and on top of that, it even manages to remain
compatible with canon and the LACE, in the end!

Jael manages to craft a setting for her OFC Sigrid that let the
character and the dire circumstances of the woodmen where she grows up
instantly come alive, and also gives all the necessary clues we will
need and understand only far later in the story. Sigrid's encounter
with the Elvenking is written both compelling and believable (and on
top pretty funny, regarding Sigrid's thoughts about the sense for
practicability of rich men there). The problems caused for her by this
relationship are not omitted.

Besides the lovely pairing and erotica elements, the story gives us a
compelling view at Thranduil and at life in Eryn Lasgalen during the
last years while his son stays in Middle Earth - and after Legolas
leaves for Aman, with intense emotional depth. And finally, the
astonishing conclusion of the tale. Marvelously done!

As always, Jael's characters come alive with a vengeance, stay with
the reader long afterwards, and come across totally believable. I do
not normally read much het erotica, and even less canon/OFC, but this
tale invites to read it several times over, and never gets old in
doing so. What a great tale!

Title: Last Light � Author: Ignoble Bard � Genres: Drama � ID: 194
Reviewer: crowdaughter � 2007-12-09 15:22:10
A beautiful tale, with effective and poetic use of language which is
very fitting to the POV of the narrator of the tale. I love the way
the observed creatures are called is emphasizing the unique
perspective of the narrator and draws us in. Great idea, lovely executed!

Title: My Dear Bandobras � Author: Le Rouret � Times: Fourth Age and
Beyond � ID: 818
Reviewer: crowdaughter � 2007-12-09 15:33:06
This is one of the most amazing and most compelling variations of
"Legolas paired with an OFC" and the old topic of an "enforced/
political marriage" that I have ever seen. The way the letter format
is used here is astonishing, as the whole tale perfectly enfolds in
the correspondence between some of the characters, and still, in the
different POV's of the corresponding characters, we get a very clear
view what is going on, and all characters of the tale manage to come
alive enough to care about them.

Le Rouret's power of storytelling is palpable not the least in the
fact that she manages to have us sympathetic even with the poor bride,
in the end, despite the increasing wish to strangle her at times...

A very enjoyable read and a very intelligent take on the "Legomance"
topic, with a twist. One of my favorite reads!

Title: Rage � Author: Deandra � Genres: Drama: Minas Tirith � ID: 353
Reviewer: obsidianj � 2007-12-09 16:27:46
[spoilers]
In this Lothiriel/Eomer romance Lothiriel stays in Rohan after
Theoden's funeral to get to know Rohan's king better and to see
whether an alliance between the two is possible. Eomer is greatly
troubled by his experiences of the war and the desperate situation of
his people. He is not in the mood for the Gondorian princess and at
first all Lothiriel's efforts are in vain. I like the characterization
of Eomer. I found it very believable that the war leaves invisible
scars behind. I loved Lothiriel's comparison of the past and the
future with the picture of their path in the snow.

Title: The Sword of Elendil � Author: Gandalfs apprentice � Genres:
Drama: Incomplete � ID: 69
Reviewer: obsidianj � 2007-12-09 16:30:04
[spoilers]
I follow this story through it's development for some time. With every
re-write the story gets richer and more colorful. I love the
characterization of Aragorn as a youthful man who has still a lot to
learn, but he shows already glimpses of what he will become. I like
the way his relationship to Arwen is portrayed. The tale of Aragorn
and Arwen in the appendices is so stylized that it is hard to see real
emotion there. In this story the emotional underpinnings are much
stronger. Arwen's cool disregard and sometimes anger with Aragorn's
youthful infatuation as she sees it, broke not only Aragorn's heart,
but mine as well.

Aragorn's development into the chieftain of the Dunedain is embedded
into the richly painted culture of the Angle and the people living
there with their struggle to survive, their struggle with their
heritage and duty. When Aragorn shows up unexpectedly, some of the
people had lost hope and are ready to turn away from their heritage
and their fight against the darkness to try to save what is left of
their people. They are not happy to have a new untried chieftain
nobody has seen until now.

The characters of Aragorn's family are well-drawn and fleshed out. I
especially like Aragorn's great-grandmother Saelind, who ties several
generations of chieftains together for Aragorn.

The tale is not finished and I'm eagerly awaiting the next chapters


Title: Outmatched � Author: Tiana Luthien � Genres: Drama: Vignette �
ID: 132
Reviewer: obsidianj � 2007-12-09 16:33:18
Eomer spars with Faramir to the entertainment of the onlookers. On the
surface it seems this is all the sparring match is about, to show the
Rohirrim Faramir's worth in battle, but on a second level this shows
Eomer's mindset on how to test Faramir's worth as a husband to Eowyn.
And Faramir beautifully rises to the occasion.

Title: Of Echoes of Bruinen � Author: Berzerker Prime � Races: Elves �
ID: 345
Reviewer: obsidianj � 2007-12-09 16:39:49
A very nice retelling of the scene in the first movie where Arwen lets
the waters of the Bruinen rise to bury the Ring-wraiths. In this
ficlet, it is not Arwen who is the cause of the river rising, which
makes a lot more sense.

Title: The Tenant from Staddle � Author: Larner � Races:
Cross-Cultural: Incomplete � ID: 408
Reviewer: crowdaughter � 2007-12-09 16:55:42
This is a great and very thought-provoking tale. What we learn from
canon of the Scorching of the Shire is slim, and we have few hints of
the impact that time has on the Hobbit's society. To see the Hobbits
now dealing with the aftermath of that time, as well as with the way
law was abused and bent during the rule of "Sharkey", gives a
compelling view into the ruptures caused by that power abuse. Also, we
get a wonderful, deep view into the way the Hobbits think and how
their justice system works, here.

This tale is very enriching to what clues we already have about
Hobbits from canon; also, it gives detailed, believable characters and
makes a very enjoyable and interesting read. Simply brilliant! I do
not normally like Hobbit centered LOTR fanfic, but this fic had the
power to make me a proselyte. :)

Kudos to Larner to craft such an enriching reading experience!

Title: In Aragorn's Safekeeping: Life in the King's House � Author:
Radbooks � Genres: Alternate Universe: Incomplete � ID: 416
Reviewer: obsidianj � 2007-12-09 17:03:41
[spoilers]
Thomas and Rebecca, the two teenagers who ended up in Middle-earth
after a traffic accident, now stay in Middle-earth and have to build
up a new life. As adopted children of the King of Gondor they have the
advantage that they won't have to worry about their next meal and a
roof over their head, but still Aragorn won't let them sit on their
hands. So, there is schooling in the skills and history of
Middel-earth and the wedding between them to plan.

But it is not only an adjustment for the two young people. The
northern Rangers who stay with King Elessar also have adjustments to
life in the south to make. During the winter holidays the differences
in customs especially come to the front. I love the way how Thomas and
Rebecca try to introduce Christmas to Minas Tirith and the
difficulties they have to explain the Christmas tree and glass
decorations to Aragorn and Arwen.

The characters of Thomas and Rebecca come to life and also Aragorn and
Arwen, and a host of more original characters.



Title: A Texas Gay Boy in King Thranduil's Court � Author: Ignoble
Bard � Genres: Humor: Parody � ID: 182
Reviewer: Doc Bushwell � 2007-12-09 18:06:04
(Comic Book Guy voice) Best. Self. Insertion. Ever.(/Comic Book Guy
voice)*

Sometimes comedy in Middle-earth works. Sometimes it doesn't. This is
one of the former and how! IgnobleBard's parody aims wickedly at many
aspects of Tolkienism like preternaturally sharp elven arrows. The
author's humor is relentless so I'm hard pressed to single out any one
scene or line as "the best" but the Snickers scene had me hooting out
loud as did, umm, the scene surrounding the [no sticky mess to clean
up] line. Really, I smiled, chortled and guffawed while reading this.

IgnobleBard's style is crisp and fast-paced. Description and dialogue
are nicely balanced with great turns of phrase. The overall premise -
modern guy drops into Middle-earth - is not only a great send-up of a
common theme in Tolkien fan fic, but also a nice tribute to Sam
Clemens as Mike wields observational wit throughout the story.

*For those sheltered from American pop culture, this is a reference to
The Simpsons.

Title: O, Cruel Fate � Author: Greywing � Genres: Alternate Universe:
Incomplete � ID: 58
Reviewer: Doc Bushwell � 2007-12-09 18:32:17
[O Cruel Fate] was one of the earlier works of Tolkien fan fiction
that I read - I am a stumbling neophyte in this milieu. One of my
favorite exercises some months and a few enjoyable re-reads later is
to try to cast this hilarious story for a cinematic production. I
still hone in on the 1970s era Monty Python crew. Greywing's romp is,
to my mind, written in the best Pythonesque tradition.

She starts with the thoroughly incongruous - and hootworthy -
incarnation of nerdly botany student, Ellie (as a former undergrad
botany major, I can relate) into one of the more exalted characters
(at least in fan ficcery) of Tolkien's legendarium. Through Ellie as
Glorfindel, Greywing cheerfully eviscerates characters, concepts and
canon.

And Neldor. What can I say? I'm predisposed to the mad scientist
types, but Neldor takes the cake and analyzes for its composition, no
doubt. He is simply fabulous in his machinations, his inquisitiveness
which knows no bounds (especially as pertains to Ellie-Glorfindel),
and his unending envy of Elrond. Neldor is a superlative example of a
great OC.

Greywing's style is lively, and her writing moves the reader right
along in the narrative. Clever asides are inserted adroitly with
little or no interruption in the pace. The leaping from Middle-earth
the the halls o' the gods (Valinor) is handled well and is easy to follow.

Here's hoping that Greywing keeps adding to this hilarious WIP. In the
meantime, I will fantasize about a scenario in which the late Graham
Chapman is cast as Ellie-Glorfindel, Eric Idle (hair dyed dark, of
course) as Neldor, and John Cleese as Elrond - or maybe Gil-galad.


Title: The Young Knights � Author: Soledad � Races: Men: Gondor � ID: 98
Reviewer: phyloxena � 2007-12-09 18:38:40
A lovely story. Most of the characters are original: bright, brave and
sympathetic each in own way (and even lord Forlong's poisonous wife
and witchy mother are great reading). Tolkien's, or Numenorian,
obsession with blood lines and genetically inherited nobility is
something I cannot accept very well -- that is, I do as long as I
reread LotR, re-enchanted every time, but it is not my favorite idea
-- so I particularly like the way people of lesser blood and lower
social status are acting with honor and fortitude fitting their
situations.
The world described in "The young knights" is different from what we
know from LotR -- the city there wondering of the nine never takes us,
the castle different from Minas Tirith. It is different visually, at
least for me: Tolkien's descriptions revoke grey and green watercolor,
while this tale is like an illumination with lots of gold and scarlet
(well, people dress better for tournaments than for commando
operations). Old folks way, peasants' beliefs, Haradric tales and
street singers (and illegitimate children) are absolutely original.
All this adds new depth to the culture of Gondor. And more hope to the
Forth Age, I must add, if Gondor is to come to its former glory with
not much of the Dunedain breeding stock.

Book characters are either those who got barely mentioned by name in
Lord of the Rings (or appendixes and even drafts) or much younger than
in the book and in completely different position, making the question
of being "in character" irrelevant. The only exception is Denethor,
who didn't change much in twenty years beside despairing. Young
Faramir is very young, credible and a little sketchy -- seems like
Soledad intentionally put in this tale everything specific to him: a
bookworm, a dreamer, an archer; he displeases his father and he falls
for a shield-maiden. I don't recall any appearance of his
characteristic pity and compassion, but this is a joyous tale (and he
is the only one who became happier than before by the time of grim
epilogue). Boromir is great -- strong, honorable, burdened and well
loved. I particularly liked his silent line about being happier for
the lack of Dunedain blood. I was glad to see him with loyal friends
-- and also that he wasn't given any romantic episode in this story.
Romances don't work very well here, and Boromir is tragic enough
"married to his sword".
Unlike majority fanfiction stories (including some of my favorite
ones), this one is balanced and independent. It is enchanting itself,
because of the composition, language, setting and everything else that
is Soleded's talent or expertise, not because it is about my favorite
character or fills some gap I am anxious to see filled.

Title: The Oarsman � Author: Tanaqui � Times: Late Third Age:
3018-3022 TA: Other Fixed-Length Ficlet � ID: 357
Reviewer: phyloxena � 2007-12-09 18:44:38
Very much said in very little words. This goes for most of Tanaqui's
drabbles and drabble sequences. "The Oarsman" is especially tactile.
Which is hard to write and interesting to read, and makes sense
because ITB the whole episode is in the dark.

Title: Blades of the Downfallen West � Author: Tanaqui � Genres:
Drama: Other Fixed-Length Ficlet � ID: 441
Reviewer: phyloxena � 2007-12-09 18:51:24
I liked the first drabble better because of the historical references
-- or, better say, broad context for a seconds-long episode.

Title: Journey's End � Author: Altariel � Genres: Drama: Ithilien �
ID: 442
Reviewer: phyloxena � 2007-12-09 19:01:00
Beautifully written, from the point of view if an inn-keeper with a
sad memory . The writing evokes the imagery of peaceful Ithilien and
gives very convincing picture of the years before the peace was
achieved in very few words. For some reason, midnight surgery
impressed me most of all -- probably because of all splinters removal
and bandage applying performed with a LED pocket light.
Of course, these two Rangers are always a treat. I am glad Aragon can
heal the heart; that the King and the Prince can go rangering, and
they are friends, apparently.

Title: First Among Equals � Author: Tanaqui � Genres: Adventure:
Fixed-Length Ficlet � ID: 564
Reviewer: phyloxena � 2007-12-09 19:02:40
I like this sequence's realistic, physical details: blotting hands in
"Blooded" and hunger in "Embattled", and the lack of sentimentality.
The line about his father didn't feel quite right to me.

Title: Mighty among both Elves and Men � Author: Tanaqui � Times:
Multi-Age: Fixed-Length Ficlet � ID: 606
Reviewer: phyloxena � 2007-12-09 19:16:55
The sequence explores Elrond in his various roles in his long life. My
favorite pieces are "Foundations", because it feels like Elrond plans
something like Notre Dame de Chartres; "Unexpected", because there is
too little of Tom Bombadil around and we could do with more of him;
"Bloodline", because I am fascinated with obsessed, crafty, proud
Noldor; and "Echoes", because of the ambiguous, two-fold "imperfectly
greeted him" line. It seems to refer both to the mutated language and
diluted family resemblance.

Title: Circumstantial Heroes � Author: Gwynnyd � Genres: Drama: Minas
Tirith � ID: 684
Reviewer: phyloxena � 2007-12-09 19:18:14
A great story on every level. True to The Book, the setting -- long
chilly corridor, austere and uncomfortable study, the view of Pelennor
at down -- are very visual in not so many words. Dialogs (and Aragorn
running inner monologue) are great.
The anxious, suspicious (with good reason) Pippin is very endearing,
both servants are credible and palpable in their contrast (but, as a
minor reality check, would Brethnir be <i>so</i> uncooperative in
finding better sleeping arrangement for Pippin? What makes him so sure
that rugged upstart won't behead him on the spot?). It is somehow very
comforting to know that domestic, non-violent Hithdol previously
served Boromir. And, as we currently re-reading ROTK with kids and
just got to the HOH part, I am happy that somebody made sure Aragorn
had soup. Speaking of Aragorn -- ITB he shifts roles, fits into any
situation, and appears kingly and legendary in mud-caked boots and
all, if needed. In "Circumstantial heroes" he is just as composed
barefoot with a drunk hobbit and unsympathetic servants.

Title: Lighting Fires � Author: Gwynnyd � Genres: Adventure: Pre-Ring
War � ID: 95
Reviewer: phyloxena � 2007-12-09 19:34:51
I didn't realize until now this story wasn't yet awarded! Gwynnid's
Aragorn stories all form continuous timeline, and since this one
belongs to his chilhood, it felt an old story. "Lighting fires" is
very satisfactory, to say the least, on several levels. It is well
written as a whole. It is rich with LotR-consistent descriptions -
while Tolkien magically uses words like "splendid', leaving the rest
to the reader's imagination, and it doesn't fall flat, details are
always gratifying. Gwynnid's details are also realistic both for our
physical world and for my intuition of Middle Earth reality. As a
parent, I can identify with Elrond's and Erlohir's pedagogic problems.
I was very angry with Estel loosing interest in geometry and very
sorry for him when he dwelled on his mistakes. I applauded Erlohir who
stoically thought the urge to comfort the boy. I felt some
"elvisheness" was missing -- Erlohis is stronger and more skilled than
Estel, but he would've been if h was just a grownup. On the other
hand, he is half-elven and probably tries to interact with Estel on
human level.

Title: Beginnings � Author: Gwynnyd � Genres: Romance: Other
Fixed-Length Ficlet � ID: 503
Reviewer: phyloxena � 2007-12-09 19:42:31
Made me consider trying willow bark next time I need aspirin. Very
sweet (tale, not concoction). I like friendly, compassionate Eowyn.
Often she is described as withdrawn, passive and uninterested in the
beginning of her relationship with Faramir. It is probably true to the
book, but I also believe that on some level she could appreciate and
return friendship and sympathy from the beginning.

Title: Fell Memories � Author: Gwynnyd � Genres: Drama: Other
Fixed-Length Ficlet � ID: 191
Reviewer: phyloxena � 2007-12-09 19:52:18
This story is more explicit than Tolkien would ever write, but still
stays on this side of graphic; Aragorn is incredibly strong and
strong-willed, but no more than he is incredible in LotR, on this side
of natural or unnatural endurance. His self-hypnotic method of
protecting his wits, dignity and identity is priceless. I loved "..he
pays attention to grammar and accent. It is a long poem".

Title: Journeys to Harad � Author: Gwynnyd � Races: Men: Other
Fixed-Length Ficlet � ID: 502
Reviewer: phyloxena � 2007-12-09 19:55:18
It is good to be king, indeed. Very funny.

Title: Still Round the Corner � Author: lbilover � Races: Hobbits:
Post-Grey Havens � ID: 515
Reviewer: Larner � 2007-12-09 20:24:37
A confusion of Frodos as one waits to bid farewell to one he loves,
even though he first tries vainly to talk him out of going. How
difficult this must have been.

I, too, have played with how this departure went, as have others
greater than I. This one is masterfully done.

Title: Worship � Author: Marta � Genres: Drama: General Drabble � ID: 586
Reviewer: Larner � 2007-12-09 20:27:44
The Easterling lord who held Tuor did his best to insult his captive
and his folks' traditions and beliefs, seeking to break him. We see
Tuor has learned to hold his tongue, but that his heart remains strong.

Well, well depicted, and love the contrast between Tuor and the
Easterling.

Title: Tea and Crumpets � Author: Llinos � Genres: Humor: The Shire or
Buckland � ID: 799
Reviewer: Larner � 2007-12-09 20:34:43
I don't usually review slash, but this was humorously done. Poor Pippin.

Title: Moira � Author: illyria-pffyffin � Races: Hobbits � ID: 676
Reviewer: Larner � 2007-12-09 20:44:00
I don't usually frequent LiveJournal or MySpace or other such sites,
so I've read little enough of Illyria's work. This, however, is
superb--one of the best stories I've read this year--lyrical, hopeful,
one of delight and promise, even as Eru tells Manwe as they look on
the industrious nature of the first Hobbits.

Yes, hopeful, steadfast, strong in their very weakness.

A wonderful, wonderful story.

Thank you for this one. Now we know how it was done!

Title: A Game of Chess � Author: Marta � Genres: Drama: Gondor Drabble
� ID: 605
Reviewer: Larner � 2007-12-09 20:46:11
Alas, it appears that Denethor son of Ecthelion is already
underestimating his father's new favorite. Well, Aragorn has no
intention of disabusing him--not, perhaps, until the game is actually
set in motion?

Nice!

Title: Feasting on Poison � Author: Gryffinjack � Races: Hobbits:
Post-Ring War � ID: 534
Reviewer: Larner � 2007-12-09 21:02:05
Tolkien did have some anacrhonisms introduced within Middle Earth,
including the potato; but what about the tomato, so central to so many
British meals? Here we learn of the introduction of this plant, and
the common folks' distrust of the fruit as it's a member of the
nightshade family and contained acid. Interesting tale well told, with
a song by Pippin and laughter by all.

Title: Where There's Life, There's Hope (and in need of vittles) �
Author: annmarwalk � Genres: Drama: Gondor Drabble � ID: 463
Reviewer: Larner � 2007-12-09 21:04:10
Aragorn finds healing in the scent of new bread baked by Mags the
cook. How very wonderful! A most appropriate welcome back to Minas
Tirith for the one once known as Thorongil, who undoubtedly spent some
hours in her kitchen, enjoying her simple and heartening company.

Title: In the Waiting � Author: Altariel � Races: Men: Gondor � ID: 392
Reviewer: Larner � 2007-12-09 21:09:15
No allure could the Ring waken in Faramir; but he senses that the
Enemy shall still use his dismissal of It and release of Its bearer as
a means of trying him.

Wonderful thoughts of Faramir's on the Ring's effects on his family
and people, and particularly on the continuing degredation of
relationship with his father.

Excellent presentation of mood.

Title: Promises to Keep � Author: Jay of Lasgalen � Times: Early Third
Age: 1-2850 TA � ID: 321
Reviewer: Larner � 2007-12-09 21:15:06
Sometimes those within the Halls of Mandos are allowed moments of
communion with those they loved; and such a moment does Oropher know
with his son, foretelling the birth of a son who would be greater yet.

I had some difficulties at first sorting out the time when this was
set, but appreciated it the more when that understanding came.

Title: The Land of Gift � Author: Maeve Riannon � Times: First Age and
Prior: House of Fingolfin � ID: 108
Reviewer: Larner � 2007-12-09 23:03:58
That Atalante rose at the offering made to the Sea by Idril and Tuor
is such a wonderful thought, as is the ghostly dancing of those two
upon its shores, seen at times by those who came to dwell there.

Fascinating.

Title: Of the Silmarils � Author: Isil Elensar � Races: Elves:
Fixed-Length Ficlet � ID: 111
Reviewer: Larner � 2007-12-09 23:06:48
Feanor met his vision, then, unfortunately, fell from it.

Ah, for the forging of the Silmarils!

Title: Gentlemen's Night Out � Author: Oshun � Genres: Humor: Gondor
or Rohan � ID: 181
Reviewer: crowdaughter � 2007-12-09 23:22:54
What a fine, funny tale this is, and what a lovely nip in the bud of
the value of that dreadful essay, the Laws and Customs Of The Eldar! I
loved the part about the 'initiation ritual' among the elves for their
poor freshly come-of-age peers, here. I also loved your description of
a wanton Legolas. And his mention of the comforts he found on the
Quest were just too funny - and very revealing... ;)

This is a sweet little tale that I really, really liked! Thank you for
writing and sharing!

Title: A Texas Gay Boy in King Thranduil's Court � Author: Ignoble
Bard � Genres: Humor: Parody � ID: 182
Reviewer: Larner � 2007-12-09 23:29:34
Hokay! So, that's how it happened, then?

Gay Elves and mpreg! And a baseball-wielding Hobbit in a Texas park.

Good for giggles.

Title: A Hobbit's Tale � Author: Pearl Took � Genres: Poetry: With
Hobbits � ID: 253
Reviewer: Larner � 2007-12-09 23:33:15
This poem is not overly sentimental, but charming as we see Bilbo
telling his tale to the younger fry, and four of them sparked by it,
all remaining ignorant of the nature of what he'd brought home--for
now, at least.

Well crafted rhymes and excellent choice of theme.

Title: No Escape � Author: Aranel Took � Times: Mid Third Age: 2851 -
3017 TA: Drabble � ID: 324
Reviewer: Larner � 2007-12-09 23:35:37
If not all those who went to Khazad-dum with Balin were not males,
what became of the women and children? A fascinating and
all-too-plausible look at what fate might have come upon them.

Title: Waiting By the Water � Author: Linaewen � Genres: Drama: With
Aragorn � ID: 395
Reviewer: Larner � 2007-12-09 23:40:14
Aragorn wasn't certain why he waited to go aboard the ship at
Pelargir, until one more passed by and he knew at last the reason.

Poignant.

Title: Alone and Forsaken � Author: Linaewen � Genres: Drama: Vignette
� ID: 466
Reviewer: Larner � 2007-12-09 23:44:54
Ah--how too easily Boromir could come to this despair, a despair that
perhaps might have led to the betrayal of Frodo he perpetrated.

Well communicated.

Title: The Exile � Author: Raksha the Demon � Races: Men: Other
Fixed-Length Ficlet � ID: 537
Reviewer: Larner � 2007-12-09 23:49:16
Beregond doesn't regret the choice he made when he left his post to
protect Lord Faramir from his father's madness--and yet he does,
remembering the city of his birth and life with all the intensity of
one in the throes of homesickness.

We see the pride and regrets and memories of the Captain of the White
Company as he peers through the Gates for the small glimpse he is now
allowed of the City he so loved. Well done.

Title: Hay and Clover � Author: Cuthalion � Genres: Romance: Pre-Ring
War � ID: 679
Reviewer: Larner � 2007-12-10 00:02:56
Cuthalion and White Gull have been the best I've seen for giving our
Frodo the loving completeness we would wish for them. The generosity
of Clover is to be commended.

Title: Here We Go Round The Mulberry Bush � Author: Isabeau of
Greenlea � Genres: Romance: Other Fixed-Length Ficlet � ID: 512
Reviewer: Larner � 2007-12-10 00:06:07
Ah--but our Pippin has now been claimed--and behind the mulberry bush
at that! A fun read and response to the Pink Pippin challenge.

Title: Maiden Voyage � Author: Fawsley � Races: Cross-Cultural:
Drabble � ID: 654
Reviewer: Larner � 2007-12-10 00:07:35
How wonderful, this brief description of the departure of our beloved
Legolas and Gimli!

Title: Darkness Visible � Author: Tanaqui � Times: Late Third Age:
3018-3022 TA: Gondor Drabble � ID: 725
Reviewer: Larner � 2007-12-10 00:09:54
Beregond's thoughts as he watches the ash-clouds from Mordor steal
away the day are well described. No, no welcome summer storm this
darkness!

Communicates the mood excellently.

Title: Watching and Waiting � Author: Llinos � Genres: Poetry: With
Hobbits � ID: 796
Reviewer: Larner � 2007-12-10 00:12:12
Ah, the closest of cousins--Meriadoc and Peregrin, as each waits for
the other to waken from injuries close to death. Poignant.

Title: The Tenant from Staddle � Author: Larner � Races:
Cross-Cultural: Incomplete � ID: 408
Reviewer: annmarwalk � 2007-12-10 01:15:10
I first met Larner back in my HASA days through her very first story,
"For Eyes to See As Can". What I loved about that story, and continue
to enjoy about Larner's writing, is the depth of her world-building:
trade and economics; social structures; art and craft; rich details of
everyday life in the post-war Shire with vivid, realistic characters
and events.

The story consists almost entirely of original characters, each of
them unique and engagingly written. Hobbits and hobbitesses, lads and
lasses; elves, rangers, and a charmingly nerdy young lawyer from the
White City. The story proceeds at a relaxed pace, but cunningly hidden
within each chapter is some surprising gem of wit or humor, or an
"Ahh!" moment. Two memorable examples are the sly explanation for
Movieverse!Strider's unchanging scruffy beard through six months of
travel in the wilds, and a fleeting mention of the anguish of young
male 'Tweens during the Troubles, both terrified and enraged at what
they saw happening around them, but as yet too young to take action.

A major theme of the tale is the isolation in which the folk of the
Shire lived, considering themselves important only to themselves, and
not worthy of the interest and concern of Men. The Troubles changed
all that, of course, but they are still quite surprised to discover
the significant involvement Frodo, Sam, Merry, and Pippin had in
Outside events. In a way it's a coming-of-age tale for the Shire and
its inhabitants as they learn how the will be expected to take their
place in the new world order. Very thoughtfully and enjoyably written!

Title: The Tenant from Staddle � Author: Larner � Races:
Cross-Cultural: Incomplete � ID: 408
Reviewer: Raksha the Demon � 2007-12-10 04:19:42
A complex and multi-faceted story that examines the legal and cultural
consequences of the title and properties gifted to Frodo by Aragorn in
Eriador. Larner has a knack for creating plausible scenarios involving
the laws of various races; and it's put to good use here. There's a
sense that the sheltered little worlds of the Shire and Bree are
opening up to both past and future in a process that is fascinating to
watch...

Title: Justice � Author: Imhiriel � Genres: Drama: Gondor Drabble �
ID: 633
Reviewer: Raksha the Demon � 2007-12-10 05:16:58
A sober reminder of the sufferings of Sauron's human slaves; and the
King's justice given to them after the Ring War. Imhiriel's
appropriately named drabble illuminates Tolkien's predilection for the
mingling of justice and mercy and kindness.

Title: The End of a Lonely Road � Author: White Gull � Races: Hobbits
� ID: 542
Reviewer: trikywun � 2007-12-10 13:27:37
This was a fascinating AU and I liked Violet very much, she is a
refreshing change from most OFC's that almost invariably come off as
Mary Sues. This author has the skill to keep such a character original
and interesting.

Title: Rain on the Downs � Author: Breon Briarwood � Races: Hobbits �
ID: 794
Reviewer: trikywun � 2007-12-10 13:29:53
I especially enjoyed the flashback here. Frodo is my favourite
character and I always like to see more of his background. Good use of
the elements of the story challenge.

Title: Heirloom � Author: Pearl Took � Races: Hobbits � ID: 778
Reviewer: trikywun � 2007-12-10 13:34:41
I really liked this story. The way that Pearl was able to impart
everyone's distinct personalities in such a brief section was great
and the thimble was such a good idea and very original. It seemed a
very hobbitlike item to me and really made the story work much better
than say a goblet or item of jewellrey being passed down. Every part
was separate and yet tied in perfectly to the story in a well done
progression.

Title: Hazardous Going � Author: Auntiemeesh � Races: Hobbits:
Hurt/Comfort � ID: 788
Reviewer: trikywun � 2007-12-10 13:37:52
I like stories that tell us how the Travellers make use of skills
learned during the Quest after they have returned home and this one is
excellent. A good story!

Title: Stay With Me � Author: pippinfan88 � Races: Hobbits:
Hurt/Comfort � ID: 518
Reviewer: trikywun � 2007-12-10 13:40:34
I have always felt that Pippin would have a strong bond with Esmeralda
and this story is a really good example of this bond. I love how
understanding she is here and it is easy to see that she is Merry's
mother - he has obviously inherited a good deal of his caring nature
from her. Very good story!

Title: Pippin's Little Experiment � Author: Budgielover � Races:
Cross-Cultural: With Pippin � ID: 291
Reviewer: trikywun � 2007-12-10 13:42:58
This seems exactly what Pippin would do. Merry's exasperation and then
fear were written very well and I thought that the characterisations
were good. This story was fun to read.

Title: Living Tales � Author: pippinfan88 � Races: Hobbits: Post-Grey
Havens � ID: 806
Reviewer: trikywun � 2007-12-10 13:49:12
I thought that the descriptions in this story were excellent! They
made me feel as if I were there sitting with the hobbits, I could see
the mountains and feel the breeze. I love the idea behind this story
about them being in a tale themselves - we are all of us living our
own tale (not so exciting as the hobbits' tale though!) but we usually
don't think about it in those terms. It was cool to see the hobbits
suddenly confronted with the knowledge that they were caught up in an
epic tale.

I liked all of the characterisations too and enjoyed the dialogue. A
really enjoyable story!

Title: Setting the Captives Free � Author: pippinfan88 � Races:
Hobbits: Post-Ring War � ID: 245
Reviewer: trikywun � 2007-12-10 13:51:52
I liked seeing a more in depth view of what happened after the Battle
of Bywater. The sense of imperativeness was well done.

Title: Mercy � Author: conniemarie � Races: Hobbits: Post-Ring War �
ID: 730
Reviewer: trikywun � 2007-12-10 13:56:38
There are some nice descriptives in this story and there is a nice
wistfulness about it. I know it is AU but found the canon error of
intimating that Merry, Pippin and Sam all live close together very
jarring. Nice story save for that though.

Title: Merry's Grandmother � Author: grey_wonderer � Races: Hobbits:
Pre-Quest � ID: 137
Reviewer: trikywun � 2007-12-10 13:58:30
I hadn't ever thought of Merry's Took grandparents before! This was a
really nice story. I am glad that they have started to get to know
each other.

Title: Golfing Fever � Author: lbilover � Races: Hobbits: Pre-Quest �
ID: 75
Reviewer: trikywun � 2007-12-10 14:00:31
This was a funny story. I liked the way that the very specific golfing
terms were inserted so naturally. The dialogue and Frodo's thoughts
were all very good. I hadn't ever considered what outfits the hobbits
would wear to play golf and found this very amusing.

Title: Through the Generations � Author: Elemmire � Races: Hobbits:
Vignette � ID: 821
Reviewer: trikywun � 2007-12-10 14:02:48
This was a very sweet story! I loved the natural progression.
Oftentimes this sort of fic just doesn't seem to work but Elemmire
really pulls it off and I enjoyed every word! Excellent story, thank you!

Title: Lords of Gondor � Author: Linaewen � Genres: Alternate
Universe: Incomplete � ID: 154
Reviewer: agape4gondor � 2007-12-10 14:43:29
Ah! To have Boromir alive! And so vibrant and full of life - changed
and not changed.

I love the beginning chapter with the 'saving' of Boromir. I liked the
idea that lembas might have healing properties - besides the hands of
the king... something that always bothered me about that scene as
Tollers wrote it - that Aragorn had the hands of the king in Minas
Tirith, but not on the trail? Didn't seem quite plausible.... but we
all know why he did it. Drat. The medical description of how Aragorn
might have saved Boromir is quite good. Very descriptive but really
sounds plausible.

As for Legalas being chosen to stay behind - I think it worked very
well. I loved the scenes between Boromir and Legolas. Well written.
Delightful.

The journey is very long and very hard on Boromir - but each time he
met another group of men (first Knights of Gondor and then Riders of
Rohan) the meeting was so well written and joy-filled that I just had
to sob now and again.

The descriptions of the venues were beautiful. I especially loved the
group coming down the stairs of Rauros.

Lovely tale. Cannot wait for more.

Title: For the Dwarves, Gimli � Author: annmarwalk � Races: Dwarves �
ID: 155
Reviewer: agape4gondor � 2007-12-10 15:15:21
Oh my goodness! I found all three of these absolutely delightful.

The first with Gimli's mom and the socks was precious.

The second with Boromir and the socks was *sobs* sad, yet fun.

The third with Gimli's mom and the inevitable - what have you done
with my son theme was hilarious.... if one did not know why the others
looked away.

Great fun and yet poignant too.

Title: Postponing the Inevitable � Author: EdorasLass � Genres:
Romance: With Rohirrim � ID: 755
Reviewer: agape4gondor � 2007-12-10 15:32:07
Phew! Who would think that the musing of a father about his son and
his son's friend would be quite so hot! I like the phases he went
through before coming to his decision. His tolerance at what some
other father would go through the roof with. I liked the fact that,
when his first hope did not materialize (the breaking of the
relationship), that he was still able to look with calm at the situation.

Very, very nice moment. Lovely tale. *sobs*

Title: Green � Author: annmarwalk � Times: Late Third Age: 3018-3022
TA: Gondor Drabble � ID: 461
Reviewer: Mechtild � 2007-12-10 16:04:20
Here fine use is made of the sense of smell here, which you made more
evocative by bringing in the imagery of colour. There's the *green*
scent, of course, but the things named�fir, willow, new-cut grass,
yarrow, apple blossom�all conjure up colour as well as scent, the
colours and scents of growing things in spring, redolent of new
life�and hope.

Title: Concealment � Author: Marta � Genres: Romance: With Rohirrim �
ID: 649
Reviewer: agape4gondor � 2007-12-10 16:04:56
Glorious tale about two glorious men! Very well written. It would be
nice if these two were able to share moments of sorrow and gladness.
The scene in the garden was almost as much fun as the scene in the
brothel. Er.... inn. The relationship of these two was well told and
quite nice. I would hope there are more such adventures for these two.

Title: Four Voices - Autumn, 3018 � Author: annmarwalk � Genres:
Romance: Other Fixed-Length Ficlet � ID: 756
Reviewer: Mechtild � 2007-12-10 16:05:47
�omer's speech is so sad, so poignant, so eloquent. I hadn't expected
the tears to well up, but they did at, "They look back together,
smiling, then disappear into mist." It is almost a one-sentence
epitaph for your whole tale of the love of Boromir and Th�oden, which,
in your story made of many stories, seems to triumph over death and
enter the world of legend.

Title: Triolet: The Weaver's Song � Author: annmarwalk � Genres:
Poetry � ID: 553
Reviewer: Mechtild � 2007-12-10 16:08:53
This poem has a fiercely passionate voice--but who is *this* weaver
who promises to make Boromir's clothes with such love they will
protect him from harm and keep him warm, all through the power of
her/his blood and tears? The mystery of the speaker's identity adds to
the poem's appeal.

I am very grateful you provided a note explaining the form. A
triolet's schema is complex; I marvel at your prowess in putting the
puzzle together in such a powerful way.


Title: A Truth Universally Acknowledged � Author: annmarwalk � Genres:
Humor: Gondor or Rohan � ID: 556
Reviewer: Mechtild � 2007-12-10 16:14:07
Especially because I have read your Boromir/Th�odred stories, I had to
smile at this picture of Boromir being made to speak his views on his
possible/probable/eventual marriage. The payoff, of course, is the
ending, in which both he and Loth�riel confess their preference for
tall, blue-eyed blondes. It is enjoyable to be able to wink with you
over the shoulders of your characters, sharing in the fun.

Title: The Far Corner of the Garden � Author: annmarwalk � Genres:
Drama: Ithilien � ID: 554
Reviewer: Mechtild � 2007-12-10 16:15:36
[Contains spoilers]

Your opening, in which your couple has just consummated an act of
love, is done with such ease you establish at once that they are not
newlyweds. Your narrator's voice continues from there, flowing
naturally from one thought to another. Your keen eye and ear for how
people are in real life serves your fiction well. I appreciated this
look into �owyn's practical way of thinking as she planned her garden,
deciding what to grow in its various sections, according to use, even
remembering to make sure it was properly looked after (shooing the deer).

The title hinted that the space left for the anemones and simbelmyn�,
with a bench from which to admire them, was to be a remembrance
garden. Faramir's opening line made me think it would be for all the
fallen. But �owyn's decision to plant almond trees because they were a
favourite of Th�odred made me think the garden was for remembering
those more intimately known. Your �owyn has a sensibility that goes
beyond what is merely practical. And why not? She is the �owyn of the
book.


Title: Sea Food � Author: annmarwalk � Genres: Humor: Children � ID: 53
Reviewer: Mechtild � 2007-12-10 16:16:19
[Contains spoilers]

The subject of this tale makes it easy to relate to. Young Boromir
balks at eating the living creatures he has seen and touched and holds
squirming in a sack, but is happy to eat fish that is cooked, served
on a plate. I don't like the idea of eating venison, which comes from
animals I see walking around, strolling at dusk unconcernedly down the
neighbourhood street, or raiding the gardens at night. Cattle do not
live near here. By the time I see them they are unrecognizable, in
packages, or on a plate, smelling delicious.

P.S. Lovely descriptive work in the opening!


Title: Multicultural Interactions � Author: annmarwalk � Races:
Cross-Cultural: Gondor � ID: 18
Reviewer: Mechtild � 2007-12-10 16:16:43
What a charming tale! And what a pleasure to read this little
vignette, with the way it imagines what the son of Faramir and �owyn
might be like, at least at this age, a character for whom there is no
description in the canon text�who is not even named, if I recall. With
virtually nothing to work with, you make this character very
plausible�and likable.

Your Elboron seems to have the fire and drive of his mother, but the
reflective, probing intelligence of his father (not to mention an
excellent vocabulary). I loved the little touch in which, dashing
across the courtyard of the Tree, he is distracted by the sight of the
moonlight dappling the stone. He crashes into Elanor not because he is
distracted by the beauty of the scene, but by words and their usage.
"I was distracted a moment," he explains, "thinking about the oddness
of the word `dappled' in terms of moonlight on stone, rather than
sunlight on green leaves." That is so perfect for the son of Faramir.

Get that boy a degree in linguistics! (I always thought Faramir and
J.R.R.T. had more in common than the dream of the wave.)

P.S. I love how you do so much with deceptively simple narrative
ingredients. Brava!




Title: Behind Every Great Man... � Author: annmarwalk � Times: Mid
Third Age: 2851 - 3017 TA: Drabble � ID: 52
Reviewer: Mechtild � 2007-12-10 16:17:01
Where is *my* Mormegil? As Pippin said, "I'm getting one!"

Fortunate is the steward who has such a man in his service!

Title: For the Dwarves, Gimli � Author: annmarwalk � Races: Dwarves �
ID: 155
Reviewer: Mechtild � 2007-12-10 16:18:37
[May contain spoilers]

I loved your humorous peek into the home life of young Gimli.
(Incidentally, I thought Gimli's salt pork line in RotK was one of
John Rhys-Davies' best-delivered comic lines in the three films.) Even
more I loved the way you let us look into the mix of intense feelings
caused by Gimli's commission to go on the Quest, once the news was
brought to his mother. The juxtaposition of the words first spoken ("A
great honour!") and the pause that followed as they resonated for her
("no one would meet her eyes"), prepared well for the intensity of her
response as the implications of that "honour" sank in.

As always, Ann, you are able to express a great deal in little space.

Title: Charms of Wisdom and Grace � Author: annmarwalk � Genres:
Drama: Ithilien � ID: 460
Reviewer: Mechtild � 2007-12-10 16:19:16
[Contains spoilers]

Ah, the mystery of your poem, "The Weaver's Song" is made a little
clearer. I still don't know who wove a cloak for Boromir (unless it
was Faramir!!), but I love the notion that the things one makes, if
made with love, carry a beneficial power. This seems to be the notion
in this vignette, as well as in your triolet. "His father's love,
interwoven with the colors and scents of home;charms of wisdom and
grace," is the charm here, and Faramir, surprisingly a weaver, is the
one who casts it, this time for his son.


Title: Where There's Life, There's Hope (and in need of vittles) �
Author: annmarwalk � Genres: Drama: Gondor Drabble � ID: 463
Reviewer: Mechtild � 2007-12-10 16:19:30
Gosh, this is good, Ann. It's only brief, but you do so much with it.
"The staff of life", wheat was called, the typical component of bread
in the Western world. You have made that oft-heard saying come alive
in your story so that it conjures up not just life of the body, but
life of the spirit, and life of the will. Thus nourished and
sustained, the King of Gondor will go on.

Title: End Times � Author: annmarwalk � Genres: Drama: Gondor Drabble
� ID: 702
Reviewer: Mechtild � 2007-12-10 16:19:47
[Contains spoilers]

What a great introduction to "The End of Dark Days". It goes so well
with that fic, I wish you had cross-posted it there, perhaps in
italics, up at the top of that story. Every LotR reader knows what is
going on in this passage, but they still would wonder (if there were
no title to let them know) whose voice is speaking. Your full story
("The End of Dark Days") would let them know, as well as�more
importantly�establishing just what Mag had seen that had made her so
emotional when she finally gave way, speaking to Nanny of what had
been going on in the City.



Title: Spring after Winter � Author: annmarwalk � Times: Mid Third
Age: 2851 - 3017 TA: Drabble � ID: 462
Reviewer: Mechtild � 2007-12-10 16:20:02
Your opening sentence is a beauty, Ann. The words drop into my mind in
a series of sense-images, in slow succession, as one word moves to the
next, as if your story's rain were slowing, easing, until it stills,
lingering over the image of Sam on the rock, then picking up again as
he wakes in Ithilien to the sound of the pattering drops above him,
quickening and intensifying as Gandalf's laughter breaks forth like
spring rain coursing through a dry river-bed.

Title: The Company of Heroes � Author: annmarwalk � Races: Hobbits:
Children � ID: 393
Reviewer: Mechtild � 2007-12-10 16:20:40
[May contain spoilers]

There, now you've gone and made me cry. Simply, with un-mushy
tenderness, you showed Sam, his children, and the readers coming to a
deep insight into Boromir's role in the Great Tale, and the bringing
of the Quest to fulfilment.

Stylistically, I admired the way you let the phrase, "it worked out
fair" sound three times, each time striking a different note,
emotionally and in terms of sense. The way the three phrases were
used, even the word "fair" was heard in a richer, more complex way. I
heard "fair" in the sense of *just* (i.e. Boromir paid his dues,
righting his unworthy actions with noble ones), and I heard "fair" in
the sense of *high* or *worthy* or even *beautiful*. For Boromir's
part in the Quest did have its own beauty and value. Even his fault,
grave as it was, in the end seemed like a dark but strong, necessary
thread woven into the larger narrative tapestry, without which would
have come apart�or never been woven at all.

As for your portrayal of the children, I was especially tickled by the
image of little Ruby waving a *stuffed oliphaunt* by the leg, and the
way you had here verbalize Boromir's name, "Bo'mir! Bo'mir the Tall!"

This was very well-conceived and crafted, Ann. Thank you.


Title: No Pain, No Gain � Author: annmarwalk � Genres: Humor: Other
Fixed-Length Ficlet � ID: 435
Reviewer: Mechtild � 2007-12-10 16:21:30
That was most amusing, Ann, the joke being in comparing the pain of
getting a tattoo with that of giving birth. Personally, I think I'd
much rather get the tattoo�and I don't even like tattoos! *g*

Title: The End of Dark Days � Author: annmarwalk/EdorasLass CoAuthors
� Genres: Drama: Minas Tirith � ID: 56
Reviewer: Mechtild � 2007-12-10 16:21:42
[Contains spoilers]

What a *great* story your two have written! It pulled me in then
dragged me to each subsequent chapter without stopping. The pacing,
the establishing of time and place, the characterizations�everything
was what I could wish and more.

I knew that "Mag" is an ongoing character of yours, and I have read
one or two tales in which she is featured�enough to know that she is a
cook in the Steward's house who is very fond of the Steward's sons
(and they of her)�but this could be a stand-alone story. I need never
have heard of Mag to become completely engrossed in the story.

All of your original characters, not just Mag, were convincing. They
were also endearing. "Nanny"'s brother Pilim�r was only present for
part of a chapter, but he won my heart immediately. I even cried over
Mag's tale of the death of Donal the cobbler's nephew, who died before
the tale began, simply because of the excellence of the story-telling.
Apart from their own tales, your original characters provide excellent
eyes through which to show the events of the canon story in a
different light, offering new insights and even more reasons to care
for already beloved characters. Your depiction of the cost of war,
even honourable war, is very moving in this story. I was brought to
tears in the paragraphs in which Minas Tirith and the Gondorian
survivors pick up the pieces of their lives.

You have the gift of bringing Tolkien's "gaps" to life in way that is
faithful to the source, while offering insights culled from your own
lives and experiences (I suspect). Interpersonal insight is everywhere
evident, along with a sad wisdom, leavened throughout with your
signature warm, engaging sense of humour.


Title: The Dancer � Author: annmarwalk � Genres: Drama: Minas Tirith �
ID: 150
Reviewer: Mechtild � 2007-12-10 16:21:53
[Contains spoilers]

What a story. I do obeisance before your story-telling craft. This
character is so beautifully done, her voice so clearly captured in
your tale, and the tale she tells rings so true, how can I not love it?

The scene in which Denethor earnestly takes her hand�the reader's
breath stopped along with the heroine's in that moment�even though the
reader knows, as does the older narrator, that whatever he is going to
ask it will not be for her hand in marriage�is perfectly played. And
the moment when she sees Denethor and Finduilas together at the
Mettar� ball, I imagined I could feel the heart-twist she did, yet
with a complicated ambivalence. For you have made me believe that she
really does love this man. As much as the sight of Denethor's and
Finduilas' obviously enamoured state is like a knife-wound, she seems
not able to permit herself to feel rancour towards either, for what
would be the point? The point is that he be happy in love, not that he
be hers, in the end. That is the sort of woman she is.

Her own end�not throwing herself from the citadel but carrying on,
making do with a marriage based on duty with its lesser degree of
companionship, still being of service where she might�is one that
perhaps only a grown-up can admire, but it only increased by respect
and regard for your heroine.

The final vignette, years later at another ball, in which you reveal
how in spite of having gone on to live a different life her love for
Denethor has endured undimmed, is the perfect finishing touch to a
story full of sharp truths about real life, the painful way of wisdom,
and, yes, love.


Title: Foreign Ways � Author: annmarwalk � Genres: Humor: Gondor or
Rohan � ID: 54
Reviewer: Mechtild � 2007-12-10 16:22:32
I love stories that portray �owyn sympathetically, and as the
character I know from LotR. This is one of them and I thank you for
that. Another thing I liked was how it piqued my interest in things I
don't know about. This *kumiss*�is it a real drink? That is, a drink
found in non-Middle-earth? Mag's tantalizing depiction of this drink
and its making has persuaded me to look it up.

I raise my glass to the coming together of Rohan and Gondor�in the
marriage bed and in the kitchen.


Title: Boys Will Be Boys � Author: annmarwalk � Genres: Humor:
Children � ID: 555
Reviewer: Mechtild � 2007-12-10 16:22:59
It is heart-warming to see Boromir portrayed as a child any reader
could recognize, meeting adversity and trying hard to cope, with some
sense of his dignity in tact. This is a lesson few are permitted to
stop learning. And, throughout life, few cease to appreciate the
consoling and revivifying effect of good things to eat, prepared and
served with love. Hurray for Mag the cook, a healer in her own right.


Title: Healing Lessons � Author: Pearl Took � Races: Cross-Cultural:
With Pippin � ID: 296
Reviewer: agape4gondor � 2007-12-10 16:26:22
A very nice moment for Pip. It is good to see that Dwarves have some
healing tools. I do like the OC, Parsow. And I really like Gimli's
'guarding' Estel. Very nice all the way around.

Title: Woven in Friendship � Author: SlightlyTookish � Races:
Cross-Cultural: With Pippin � ID: 290
Reviewer: agape4gondor � 2007-12-10 16:35:21
This is an absolutely delightful and fun tale. One small moment in
Edoras brought such fond memories. The thoughts of Minas Tirith, the
horn of Boromir, the tapestries, Eowyn, Pip's concern for Merry - all
delightful - but the best was the twist at the end. A very plausible
twist. I very much enjoyed this.

Title: Shadowfax, Lord of all Horses � Author: grey_wonderer � Races:
Cross-Cultural: With Pippin � ID: 597
Reviewer: agape4gondor � 2007-12-10 17:00:22
Very nice tale. I love the name of the tavern, but was quite caught up
in the story of why it was so named! Nice job.

Title: Sea Food � Author: annmarwalk � Genres: Humor: Children � ID: 53
Reviewer: agape4gondor � 2007-12-10 17:05:54
Very nice tale. It is gratifying to think that Imrahil would take time
out of a busy court life and military life to take the boys on such an
adventure. I loved the conclusion. Still laughing at poor Imrahil who
would have enjoyed such a fresh and delicious breakfast!

Title: All Lies and Jest � Author: Jael � Races: Elves: With Mirkwood
Elves � ID: 104
Reviewer: crowdaughter � 2007-12-11 00:08:55
This is a short, thoughtful story about the LACE and what they might
mean - or not mean - to those elves who are *not* of the Noldoring
variety. I always had my doubts that the "Laws And Customs of the
Eldar" would apply to all Elves without distinction, especially to
those who stayed behind in Middle Earth and did not made the journey
to Aman.

This story touches on that problem in a very intelligent way, and also
gives a few good reasons why the Sindar should have even known of the
laws of the Valar, and also why they should have bothered to heed
them. At the same time, the tale gives a few insightful comments on
the hard and uneasy decisions that may come along with kingship, and
how Thranduil would have dealt with it. Among the most compelling
elements of the story, to me, is the fact that the Thranduil in this
story is not so sure of himself - and yet faces up to the decisions
and choices he has to make, even when the outcome is most bitter.

All in all, a great read, and a very good story!

Title: Fissures � Author: Thundera Tiger � Races: Dwarves � ID: 804
Reviewer: crowdaughter � 2007-12-11 00:26:47
This is a wonderful and very intelligent comment on the impact the
friendship with Legolas and the close association with an Elf may have
on Gimli. One of the greatest strengths of Thundera Tiger in her
examinations of this friendship in her stories is the close eye she
gives to the culture clash between the elven and Dwarven views of
these two, and the way they influence each other, at times even more
than they, themselves, notice. here, we see Gimli being more prone to
elven influence than his own Dwarven friends and comrades like - and
the great part is that he, himself, seems to be the last who notices.

On the other hand, we wonder while reading if the concern of Gimli's
friends is valid - or if it is simple narrow-mindedness. The power of
this story is that it leaves that question open. Both views have value
and justice to them, and we, the readers, are left in doubt who we
should root for. Thundera manages to show the depth of Legolas' and
Gimli's friendhip by these subtle influences, even when the two
friends are not appearing together in the story, and it is part of her
great skill as a writer that she manages to both show the depth of
commitment between the Elf and Dwarf and does not leaves out the cost
this association may have for both of them.

Thindera Tiger's stories were among my first love in this fandom. This
story reminds me again why that is so, although it is short. :)

Title: Who is this Gil-galad, of Whom You Speak? � Author: Erunyauve �
Genres: Non-Fiction � ID: 250
Reviewer: crowdaughter � 2007-12-11 00:44:59
A very interesting essay, on a king we have far too little about
normally. Thank you for writing and sharing!

Title: Bransle Royal � Author: Ribby � Times: Late Third Age:
3018-3022 TA: Gondor � ID: 473
Reviewer: obsidianj � 2007-12-11 01:57:02
This charming little ficlet leaves me yearning for more. There are
hints to an incident in the past between the main characters. With a
few words the characters come to life, Aragorn as King incognito in
his ranger garb and Merrin an OC during a merry dance.

Title: Answers and Questions � Author: Peredhil lover � Genres: Drama:
Youth � ID: 189
Reviewer: obsidianj � 2007-12-11 01:59:37
In the aftermath of his first battle, Estel gets criticized by Elladan
while Elrohir tries to help him see Elladan more clearly. I love the
characterization of the twins in this story. They are usually
characterized as "the twins", pretty much indistinguishable. In this
story they both are distinct individuals and you would never mistake
one for the other from their behavior. I like the idea that both the
twins attitude stem from the same motivation, to guide and protect Estel.

Title: Lords of Gondor � Author: Linaewen � Genres: Alternate
Universe: Incomplete � ID: 154
Reviewer: obsidianj � 2007-12-11 02:02:24
This story is an AU insofar as Boromir survives Amon Hen, but to me
the even greater lure is that this story is also a gapfiller for the
time from Amon Hen forward to whatever endpoint the author has in
mind. Through clever plotting Boromir's survival doesn't change the
story drastically so far, since he still has a lot of healing to do.

I love the fleshing out of the canon parts in Minas Tirith, the
description of the relationship between Denethor and Faramir, which is
not as strained as a lot of stories show. The scene with Denethor and
Faramir grieving in Boromir's room is one of my favorites. This gives
the story a lot of emotional depth which is sometimes missing from the
original.

From all the OCs, I especially like Durlin, Boromir's attendant who,
in the absence of his master, takes care of Denethor and Faramir. We
see some of the actions of Denethor and Faramir through his eyes,
which give a new perspective to known canon facts.

Title: I Bid You Stand � Author: storyfish � Genres: Adventure � ID: 225
Reviewer: obsidianj � 2007-12-11 02:21:56
This movieverse gapfiller fleshes out how Merry managed to be at the
battle of the Morannon and some of the consequences he has to face for
fighting the witchking. I love the way the friendship of Merry and
Pippin is portrayed in this story. Each one looking out for the other.

Title: Senses � Author: mistycracraft � Genres: Drama: With Aragorn �
ID: 367
Reviewer: obsidianj � 2007-12-11 02:23:40
[spoilers]
Aragorn is recovering slowly after a bad head injury which leaves him
deaf and blind for a time without knowing whether he will fully heal.
The way the author describes Aragorn's limited world through smell and
touch is very realistic.The limitations of his senses enhance his
remaining senses to unknown heights. He is cared for by Elrond and his
foster brothers, which take on distinct personalities in the way they
care for Aragorn. I love the writing-on-palm way of communication
which is slow but effective for simple conversation. Another thing I
really like is the description of the emotional toll his injuries take
on Aragorn, how he sinks into the silence surrounding him and stops
making any effort at communication. What a relief when the first signs
of healing, as annoying as they are, are heard ;-).

Title: The haunting of Minas Tirith � Author: Fawsley � Genres:
Alternate Universe: Gondor or Rohan � ID: 651
Reviewer: obsidianj � 2007-12-11 02:27:02
That is really a haunting night. I love the way Faramir and Aragorn
talk themselves into a haunted mood and then, when the door opens,
they are ready to believe in ghosts, only to have everything
hilariously turned upside down. I'm still chuckling.

Title: A Truth Universally Acknowledged � Author: annmarwalk � Genres:
Humor: Gondor or Rohan � ID: 556
Reviewer: phyloxena � 2007-12-11 07:22:10
Nice and hilarious, and with a good pace. So, half of a crowded
ballroom is fit to fulfill Boromir's high demands?

Title: The Unbearable Smugness of Being Feanor � Author: Ignoble Bard
� Genres: Humor � ID: 164
Reviewer: phyloxena � 2007-12-11 07:31:22
Great dialogue (and nothing else) and an unexpected outcome.

Hullo all--

In case any of you were wondering, I *am* in the area hit by the ice
storms. My power went down Sunday night. We are fine--we have gas for
heating, cooking, and hot water. But no internet--I am taking the chance to
post from an internet cafe. We have been told it *could* be up to a week
without electricity. (Of course, it could also be shorter, as I am hoping!)

Anyway, I hope to be back soon!

(((hugs))))
Dreamflower
(AKA Barbara)


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

I have friends in Missouri, Kansas and Nebraska. I hope the Internet is the
only thing they lost too. I'm waiting to hear from one of them. So glad
you came through in good shape. This is a scary situation.

I look forward to seeing you on the board again.

TariElfLady

In a message dated 12/11/2007 4:19:29 P.M. Eastern Standard Time,
aelfwina@gmail.com writes:




Hullo all--

In case any of you were wondering, I *am* in the area hit by the ice
storms. My power went down Sunday night. We are fine--we have gas for
heating, cooking, and hot water. But no internet--I am taking the chance to
post from an internet cafe. We have been told it *could* be up to a week
without electricity. (Of course, it could also be shorter, as I am hoping!)

Anyway, I hope to be back soon!

(((hugs))))
Dreamflower
(AKA Barbara)

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









**************************************See AOL's top rated recipes
(http://food.aol.com/top-rated-recipes?NCID=aoltop00030000000004)


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

Hey guys,

Fiondil finished his story "Elf Interrupted: Book One: Glorfindel." It
was in Elves: Incomplete but is now in Drama: Elves in Later Ages.

Marta

Title: Spring after Winter � Author: annmarwalk � Times: Mid Third
Age: 2851 - 3017 TA: Drabble � ID: 462
Reviewer: Bodkin � 2007-12-11 07:41:40
The enchantment of a growing rain - and Sam himself is earth, really,
to go with air, fire and water. A wonderful wakening.

Title: Faint Heart Never Won Fair Lady � Author: Marta � Genres:
Romance: Gondor � ID: 604
Reviewer: Bodkin � 2007-12-11 07:49:44
Clever Hurin! It's good to picture all those gallant warriors turning
into chickens whenever there were suitable spouse-material around. And
I can just see Boromir throwing nuts at courting couples - emotionally
stunted, that man!! A perpetual teenager in the romance stakes. But
Faramir has the courage to dance around Eowyn ... and, if he only
thought about it, she would be unlikely to train just outside his
window if she wasn't planning to offer him the opportunity to - er -
move their acquaintance forward.

Title: Making Acquaintance � Author: Bodkin � Times: Mid Third Age:
2851 - 3017 TA � ID: 216
Reviewer: Linda hoyland � 2007-12-11 07:52:24
[spoilers]

A delightful story in which Merry and Pippin meet Gandalf for the
sirst time. The two young Hobbits are gathering nuts and afraid when a
tall stranger appears, though as ever, Merry tries to be responsible.
I especially enjoyed Gandalf's meeting with Pippin.

Title: Escape � Author: Bodkin � Times: Mid Third Age: 2851 - 3017 TA
� ID: 24
Reviewer: Linda hoyland � 2007-12-11 07:58:41
I enjoyed this look at what it is like for the unknown people fighting
againts Sauron,beautifully written as is all this writer's work.A
wounded young Ranger on the run from Orcs is helped by an Elf. The
fact the characters are not named adds to the delightful aura of this
story.

Title: Point of View � Author: Tanaqui � Times: Fourth Age and Beyond:
Drabble � ID: 750
Reviewer: Larner � 2007-12-11 08:23:08
Yes, there might have been those within Gondor capable of making Bilbo
and Frodo's tales into great epics, but who better to tell this story
of triumph by average folks than the "Little People" themselves?

Well, well told and the point well driven home.

Title: Through the Generations � Author: Elemmire � Races: Hobbits:
Vignette � ID: 821
Reviewer: Larner � 2007-12-11 08:25:32
Oh, I hope Eric Carle would be impressed with this adaptation of his
"The Very Hungry Caterpillar" with a definite Shire bent, as we see
the caterpillar moving first throughout the Shire, and finally coming
into it's own in the White Tree before Strider's Citadel. One wonders
how the tale will be added to within Tol Eressea as Frodo and Sam tell
it to those Elflings they meet?

Very sweet.

Title: Blades of the Downfallen West � Author: Tanaqui � Genres:
Drama: Other Fixed-Length Ficlet � ID: 441
Reviewer: Larner � 2007-12-11 08:33:02
Oh, how marvelous! Angmar saw the dagger from the Barrowdowns in
Frodo's hands and disdained it, speaking an incantation intended to
destroy it. But in the end it was one of its mates that helped see him
brought down, and the songs and spells spoken, sung, and inscribed
over the four blades were brought to fruition.

Two paired drabbles to rejoice in.

Title: Winds of Change � Author: Lady Bluejay � Genres: Romance: With
Rohirrim � ID: 228
Reviewer: Larner � 2007-12-11 08:39:37
Ah, our Eomer has to face so many changes as Eowyn prepares for a
marriage to Faramir and the subsequent move to Gondor. But that's not
the only change coming.

A wonderful look at how the young King of Rohan comes to terms with
his growing love for Lothiriel of Dol Amroth, filled with humor and
honesty.

Title: Comforting Silence � Author: Radbooks � Times: Fourth Age and
Beyond: Gondor or Rohan � ID: 157
Reviewer: Larner � 2007-12-11 08:43:33
Aragorn shows he need not fill the silence in order to express his own
grief and compassion in the wake of Eowyn's death, and Faramir knows
comfort.

Gently and delicately told, and filled with gentle promise for easing
of the spirit. Radbooks loves our Aragorn and Faramir.

Title: Romance � Author: Greywing � Genres: Humor: Other Fixed-Length
Ficlet � ID: 375
Reviewer: phyloxena � 2007-12-11 08:43:53
Short romance is best romance.

Title: Graceful and Green � Author: Alawa � Genres: Drama: Ithilien �
ID: 62
Reviewer: Larner � 2007-12-11 08:47:01
A most thoughtful depiction of the memorial the Rangers of Ithilien
share for those they've lost, including Frodo and Sam in their number.

Title: Three Things About Pippin � Author: grey_wonderer � Genres:
Humor: Children � ID: 133
Reviewer: Larner � 2007-12-11 08:49:12
Pippin's their little brother and a right pest, always into things and
so full of mischief, intentional or not; but as their mother forces
them to each list three things they like about Pippin, Pearl,
Pimpernel, and Pervinca find that they DO love him in spite--and
because--of himself.

Very sweet and filled with the vagaries of loved children everywhere.

Title: Observations � Author: grey_wonderer � Races: Hobbits: Children
� ID: 204
Reviewer: Larner � 2007-12-11 08:52:23
Ah, the literal minds of children, as Meriadoc Brandybuck sets himself
to observe his father, seeking to know the real Saradoc.

A marvelous tale of love and respect by those who are still too young
to fully express it, perhaps.

Title: A Dragon in Buckland � Author: Pearl Took � Genres: Mystery �
ID: 206
Reviewer: Larner � 2007-12-11 08:55:07
Not all dragons are fearsome creatures, willing to kill and eat folk
and steal all their treasures. Nay, one appears in Buckland during a
visit by Pippin who appears intent on making certain all who do good
jobs realize their efforts are appreciated.

Marvelous look at how anonymous praise can strengthen the desire to do
well. Our beloved Hobbits at their best!

Title: If You Should Die Before I Wake � Author: PipMer � Genres:
Drama: With Merry � ID: 277
Reviewer: Larner � 2007-12-11 08:56:29
Another Cormallen story, and an excellent one at that, as Merry finds
he must fight his own demons in order to appreciate Pippin's own
struggle to heal and waken from healing sleep.

Title: Temptation � Author: Linda hoyland � Times: Mid Third Age: 2851
- 3017 TA: Other Fixed-Length Ficlet � ID: 419
Reviewer: Larner � 2007-12-11 09:21:27
Ah, to find oneself being pressed to accept the services of a
prostitute, and a fair one at that, when one knows there can be but
one love in his life! Not a fair thing to do to the traveler from the
north, perhaps, but understandable.

I feel for the poor girl.

Title: Mistaken � Author: Fawsley � Genres: Humor: Drabble � ID: 490
Reviewer: Larner � 2007-12-11 09:29:12
Ah, giggles as one looks at what MIGHT HAVE BEEN had Gandalf been
mistaken. Yes, a cup of tea is called for here.

Excellently written humorous piece.

Title: If You Could See What I Hear � Author: Cathleen � Races:
Hobbits: Incomplete � ID: 488
Reviewer: Larner � 2007-12-11 09:32:24
There are other beings hidden here and there within Middle Earth, one
finds. When one finds itself charmed by little Pippin Took, who's
taken a walk with his knitted pink pig, it's a remarkable danger. Poor
Tulip--can she manage to spark Pippin into going home?

A charming look at Pippin's childhood and how the Hollow Hills could
have held danger for unwitting Hobbits.

Title: Sent Unto Men � Author: Alassiel � Times: Fourth Age and Beyond
� ID: 346
Reviewer: Larner � 2007-12-11 09:34:39
Oh, I'm SO glad this was nominated! My favorite Tolkien's
Arda/Christmas story ever! Earendil's current mission is to appear
over a particular town....

Very powerful and filled with hope and the light we expect Earendil to
herald.

Title: The Third Eagle � Author: Imhiriel � Times: Late Third Age:
3018-3022 TA: General Drabble � ID: 630
Reviewer: Larner � 2007-12-11 09:57:58
Ah, the grief of having come so far into the devastation of Orodruin
to find that there were only two who needed rescuing. A marvelous
adaptation of that movie moment. I'm always glad that apparently
Smeagol was also intended to be rescued as well.

Well done, Imhiriel.

Title: Requesting Mercy � Author: Larner � Genres: Drama: The
Fellowship � ID: 681
Reviewer: Isabeau of Greenlea � 2007-12-11 11:33:54
A very powerful short story which takes place after Weathertop, as
Strider tries to get Frodo to Rivendell. Frodo, finding out the fate
that awaits him if the Morgul-shard reaches its destination, asks Sam
for a promise that shakes him to his soul. Told from the viewpoints of
Sam and Aragorn, both characters are well done. Merry and Pippin are
peripheral here-Frodo already knows who the rock he leans on is.

Title: The Weregild � Author: tyellas � Races: Dwarves � ID: 522
Reviewer: geek_chick � 2007-12-11 15:05:19
[Contains Spoilers]

This was an excellent story! The choice of subject matter, of how
Sauron bestowed one of the Rings of Power to a Dwarven king, was very
interesting and not something I've seen before.

You do an excellent job of capturing the culture and personality of
the Dwarves in this story: their distrust for other races (the
hand-gesture conversation was an excellent example), their love of
treasure, and their honor in not accepting the spoils of war. Bolin
and Nili's examination of the first two chests was interesting and the
explanation that the Elves of Eregion would have crafted some items in
a Dwarven style is feasible.

I like how Sauron created this Ring of Power to perfectly mimic the
Dwarves' own style � even a Dwarven king did not realize it had been
created by Sauron. This seems like a very feasible way for Sauron to
get the suspicious Dwarves to accept his gift. It also shows Sauron's
mastery of his craft � as a Maia it's reasonable that he could be so
talented.

Finally, the last paragraph, where Bolin "steals" a bar of gold that
he had previously rejected, perfectly illustrates the ring's subtle
influence. Overall, an excellent story that showcases both the
Dwarves' culture and Sauron's manipulative nature!


Title: The Bearing of Burdens � Author: Larner � Races:
Cross-Cultural: Gondor � ID: 792
Reviewer: White Gull � 2007-12-11 18:29:53
Relief indeed to rest, truly rest, and lay aside the burden for a
time. That's why I love Faramir so much, and missed him so badly in
the films.

WG

Title: A Pirate's Life for Me! � Author: Raksha the Demon � Races:
Men: Other Fixed-Length Ficlet � ID: 438
Reviewer: stefaniab � 2007-12-12 02:04:07
Raksha's gentle tale paints a deightful picture of two generations of
Gondorian children playing at pirates. Perhaps her point is to show
how for children, real and fictional, playing at bad guys helps them
to learn about and cope with the actual horror such characters could
rain upon their unsuspecting lives? Perhaps her aim is to give us a
little background on the deadly Corsairs of Umbar who pillaged
Gondor's shores? But ultimately, "A Pirate's Life for Me" is a lively
vignette of children playing with adults and the myths and games that
get handed down in the long life of a culture.

Title: Some Dark Place � Author: Raksha the Demon � Genres: Adventure:
Fixed-Length Ficlet � ID: 226
Reviewer: stefaniab � 2007-12-12 02:16:55
Raksha continues to show enormous skill in placing lots of drama into
few words, as evidenced in "Some Dark Place." This is a short, action
oriented tale of young Aragorn's first encounter with the Nazgul on
Weathertop, foreshadowing his battle during Frodo's famous Nazgul
encounter decades later. I'm glad to see that Raksha is continuing her
examination into Aragorn's point-of-view. I was also glad that she
showed the youthful Dunadan Chieftain in a moment of doubt and fear.

Title: Sarn Gebir · Author: agape4gondor · Genres: Adventure:
Fixed-Length Ficlet · ID: 398
Reviewer: Raksha the Demon · 2007-12-12 02:45:29
A fine action vignette with a sobering and bracing ending. We can see
the strength and determination that made Boromir so beloved in Gondor;
and his familiarity with boats comes through well here.

Title: Multicultural Interactions · Author: annmarwalk · Races:
Cross-Cultural: Gondor · ID: 18
Reviewer: Mechtild · 2007-12-12 05:50:18
What a charming tale! And what a pleasure to read this little
vignette, with the way it imagines what the son of Faramir and Éowyn
might be like, at least at this age, a character for whom there is no
description in the canon text�"who is not even named, if I recall. With
virtually nothing to work with, you make this character very
plausible�"and likable.

Your Elboron seems to have the fire and drive of his mother, but the
reflective, probing intelligence of his father (not to mention an
excellent vocabulary). I loved the little touch in which, dashing
across the courtyard of the Tree, he is distracted by the sight of the
moonlight dappling the stone. He crashes into Elanor not because he is
distracted by the beauty of the scene, but by words and their usage.
[“I was distracted a moment,”] he explains, [“thinking about the
oddness of the word ‘dappled’ in terms of moonlight on stone, rather
than sunlight on green leaves.”] That is so perfect for the son of
Faramir.

Get that boy a degree in linguistics! (I always thought Faramir and
J.R.R.T. had more in common than the dream of the wave.)

P.S. I love how you do so much with deceptively simple narrative
ingredients. Brava!




Title: Behind Every Great Man... · Author: annmarwalk · Times: Mid
Third Age: 2851 - 3017 TA: Drabble · ID: 52
Reviewer: Mechtild · 2007-12-12 05:50:51
Where is *my* Mormegil? As Pippin said, [“I’m getting one!”]

Fortunate is the steward who has such a man in his service!

Title: For the Dwarves, Gimli · Author: annmarwalk · Races: Dwarves ·
ID: 155
Reviewer: Mechtild · 2007-12-12 05:53:10
[May contain spoilers]

I loved your humorous peek into the home life of young Gimli.
(Incidentally, I thought Gimli’s salt pork line in RotK was one of
John Rhys-Davies’ best-delivered comic lines in the three films.) Even
more I loved the way you let us look into the mix of intense feelings
caused by Gimli’s commission to go on the Quest, once the news was
brought to his mother. The juxtaposition of the words first spoken
([“A great honour!”]) and the pause that followed as they resonated
for her ([“no one would meet her eyes”]), prepared well for the
intensity of her response as the implications of that “honour” sank in.

As always, Ann, you are able to express a great deal in little space.


Title: Charms of Wisdom and Grace · Author: annmarwalk · Genres:
Drama: Ithilien · ID: 460
Reviewer: Mechtild · 2007-12-12 05:54:36
[Contains spoilers]

Ah, the mystery of your poem, [“The Weaver’s Song”] is made a little
clearer. I still don’t know who wove a cloak for Boromir (unless it
was Faramir!!), but I love the notion that the things one makes, if
made with love, carry a beneficial power. This seems to be the notion
in this vignette, as well as in your triolet. [“His father’s love,
interwoven with the colors and scents of home; charms of wisdom and
grace,”] is the charm here, and Faramir, surprisingly a weaver, is the
one who casts it, this time for his son.


Title: Where There's Life, There's Hope (and in need of vittles) ·
Author: annmarwalk · Genres: Drama: Gondor Drabble · ID: 463
Reviewer: Mechtild · 2007-12-12 05:55:39
Gosh, this is good, Ann. It's only brief, but you do so much with it.
["The staff of life"], wheat was called, the typical component of
bread in the Western world. You have made that oft-heard saying come
alive in your story so that it conjures up not just life of the body,
but life of the spirit, and life of the will. Thus nourished and
sustained, the King of Gondor will go on.

Title: End Times · Author: annmarwalk · Genres: Drama: Gondor Drabble
· ID: 702
Reviewer: Mechtild · 2007-12-12 05:57:42
[Contains spoilers]

What a great introduction to [“The End of Dark Days”]. It goes so well
with that fic, I wish you had cross-posted it there, perhaps in
italics, up at the top of that story. Every LotR reader knows what is
going on in this passage, but they still would wonder (if there were
no title to let them know) whose voice is speaking. Your full story
(["The End of Dark Days"]) would let them know, as well as�"more
importantly�"establishing just what Mag had seen that had made her so
emotional when she finally gave way, speaking to Nanny of what had
been going on in the City.



Title: The End of Dark Days · Author: annmarwalk/EdorasLass CoAuthors
· Genres: Drama: Minas Tirith · ID: 56
Reviewer: Mechtild · 2007-12-12 06:00:24
[Contains spoilers]

What a *great* story your two have written! It pulled me in then
dragged me to each subsequent chapter without stopping. The pacing,
the establishing of time and place, the characterizations�"everything
was what I could wish and more.

I knew that Mag is an ongoing character of yours, and I have read one
or two tales in which she is featured�"enough to know that she is a
cook in the Steward’s house who is very fond of the Steward’s sons
(and they of her)�"but this could be a stand-alone story. I need never
have heard of Mag to become completely engrossed in the story.

All of your original characters, not just Mag, were convincing. They
were also endearing. Nanny’s brother Pilimór was only present for part
of a chapter, but he won my heart immediately. I even cried over Mag’s
tale of the death of Donal the cobbler’s nephew, who died before the
tale began, simply because of the excellence of the story-telling.
Apart from their own tales, your original characters provide excellent
eyes through which to show the events of the canon story in a
different light, offering new insights and even more reasons to care
for already beloved characters. Your depiction of the cost of war,
even honourable war, is very moving in this story. I was brought to
tears in the paragraphs in which Minas Tirith and the Gondorian
survivors pick up the pieces of their lives.

You have the gift of bringing Tolkien’s [“gaps”] to life in way that
is faithful to the source, while offering insights culled from your
own lives and experiences (I suspect). Interpersonal insight is
everywhere evident, along with a sad wisdom, leavened throughout with
your signature warm, engaging sense of humour.


Title: The Company of Heroes · Author: annmarwalk · Races: Hobbits:
Children · ID: 393
Reviewer: Mechtild · 2007-12-12 06:04:51
[May contain spoilers]

There, now you’ve gone and made me cry. Simply, with un-mushy
tenderness, you showed Sam, his children, and the readers coming to a
deep insight into Boromir’s role in the Great Tale, and the bringing
of the Quest to fulfilment.

Stylistically, I admired the way you let the phrase, [“it worked out
fair”] sound three times, each time striking a different note,
emotionally and in terms of sense. The way the three phrases were
used, even the word [“fair”] was heard in a richer, more complex way.
I heard ["fair"] in the sense of *just* (i.e. Boromir paid his dues,
righting his unworthy actions with noble ones), and I heard ["fair"]
in the sense of *high* or *worthy* or even *beautiful*. For Boromir’s
part in the Quest did have its own beauty and value. Even his fault,
grave as it was, in the end seemed like a dark but strong, necessary
thread woven into the larger narrative tapestry, without which would
have come apart�"or never been woven at all.

As for your portrayal of the children, I was especially tickled by the
image of little Ruby waving a *stuffed oliphaunt* by the leg, and the
way you had here verbalize Boromir’s name, [“Bo’mir! Bo’mir the Tall!”]

This was very well-conceived and crafted, Ann. Thank you.

Title: Mettare Duties · Author: Marta · Genres: Romance: Other
Fixed-Length Ficlet · ID: 647
Reviewer: Isabeau of Greenlea · 2007-12-12 16:09:08
A sweet look at Faramir and his Eowyn years after their marriage. The
shieldmaiden still lurks not far beneath the surface, and she still
does not suffer fools gladly. Faramir's dance with Beregond's
granddaughter in the accompanying shorter drabble gives a glimpse of a
new generation of women growing up impowered by Eowyn's heroics.

Title: A Thankless Task · Author: EdorasLass · Genres: Drama: Youth ·
ID: 49
Reviewer: Isabeau of Greenlea · 2007-12-12 16:15:23
As a costumer for several years at a university, I had my share of
run-ins with students who didn't know how to sew and couldn't see the
need for learning, so I enjoyed this piece. Boromir and Faramir's
nanny has the unenviable task of teaching her two charges basic sewing
so that they can repair their clothing in the field. Faramir takes the
lessons well-Boromir is another matter. Family politics come into play
when Boromir has to plead his case to his father himself in order to
be excused. Faramir is more assertive in this piece than in some,
needling his older brother a little smugly, and I liked that. It is a
much more equitible relationship than is often portrayed between the
two brothers.

Title: Despair · Author: Silivren Tinu · Genres: Drama: The Fellowship
· ID: 171
Reviewer: Marta · 2007-12-12 18:09:31
Nice job capturing a moment between the Fellowship. All the characters
portrayed were captured affectively, but especially Legolas's
"otherness." You did a good job writing about the torment Boromir
would have gone through, too - I particularly liked that.

Title: Dragons! · Author: Aranel Took · Races: Hobbits: Drabble · ID: 327
Reviewer: White Wolf · 2007-12-12 19:29:11
What an adorable little story. It made me smile when I visualized the
scene. I love dragons, so I'd also want to hear a story about them.

Title: Before the Gate · Author: Jay of Lasgalen · Races: Elves:
Fixed-Length Ficlet · ID: 704
Reviewer: White Wolf · 2007-12-12 19:43:38
This story is exactly the way Elladan and Elrohir would have faced the
battle, side-by-side and determined to meet their fate together. Well
done.

Title: Geometry · Author: Branwyn · Genres: Drama: Gondor Drabble · ID: 80
Reviewer: White Wolf · 2007-12-12 20:02:28
I really like the way you had Faramir think of his family in geometric
terms. It was a sad situation that was unfortunately accurate. Very
original.

Title: Pest Control · Author: Tanaqui · Races: Cross-Cultural: Drabble
· ID: 697
Reviewer: White Wolf · 2007-12-12 20:40:28
We don't see much about the Entwives. I like the the way you expressed
fertilizing the corn and the orc odor. Very original

Title: A Moment Lost · Author: Fawsley · Races: Men: Gondor Drabble ·
ID: 491
Reviewer: White Wolf · 2007-12-12 20:55:14
The first sentence was the perfect way to open this wonderful little
glimpse into the idea that Aragorn didn't know just when it was he had
truly become a king.

Title: Gone Fishin' · Author: Aranel Took · Times: Late Third Age:
3018-3022 TA: Other Fixed-Length Ficlet · ID: 322
Reviewer: White Wolf · 2007-12-12 21:08:48
I often wondered if Aragorn ever found the time to sneak off and enjoy
himself in some form of indulgence so he could escape the pressures of
being the king. I'm glad he did so in your little story. I love this.

Title: The Green Hill · Author: Baranduin · Races: Cross-Cultural: The
Fellowship · ID: 562
Reviewer: Inkling · 2007-12-12 21:24:08
The magical, fleeting moment Frodo and Aragorn share at the foot of
Cerin Amroth is one of my favorite passages in FOTR, not only for its
mysterious blurring of past and present, but also as one of the most
intimate glimpses Tolkien provided of the bond between these two
companions. In this lovely little piece Baranduin has imagined a
sequel to that scene--and further developed their friendship--as the
two revisit the heart of Lothlorien.

It seems very fitting, and believable, that Aragorn can't recall what
he and Arwen said to each other when they pledged their troth: ["It
was the dearest night of my life, but by all the Valar, I do not
remember!"] So often we remember the feelings, more than the details,
of moments of exquisite happiness.

The ending, as the shadow passes over and yet [there was something
fluttering in his heart], is sublime.



Title: Helping Hands · Author: Llinos · Races: Hobbits: Drabble · ID: 615
Reviewer: Inkling · 2007-12-12 21:28:30
These brief glimpses of the hobbits' post-Quest problems are handled
with great subtlety and sensitivity, as we see them helping to ease
each other's hurts, both psychic and physical. I especially liked the
second drabble, with Sam's belated awareness of Frodo's need of
assistance, and his tact in doing it silently; and the third, as Merry
slams down the bottle of Rohirric 'emergency' whiskey. Nice work!



Title: In Silence Remembered · Author: fantasyfan · Genres: Drama: The
Shire · ID: 598
Reviewer: Marta · 2007-12-12 21:49:55
It's really hard to find good fanfic that balances Tolkien's claims
about the relative innocence of hobbits against their durability and
martial ability. This story does a good job of that by taking the
point of one of the normal Bywater hobbits and looking back at the
battle that forced the Ruffians out of the Shire. It's sad and
disturbing in the sense that the hobbit is *so* normal he could have
been any one of us -- but the author brings out hobbity good sense,
bravery, and their lasting spirit quite well. Good work, fantasyfan --
I really enjoyed reading this.

Title: No Escape · Author: Aranel Took · Times: Mid Third Age: 2851 -
3017 TA: Drabble · ID: 324
Reviewer: Inkling · 2007-12-12 22:07:14
[spoilers]

A heart-breaking look at the fate of Balin's colony from an unusual
perspective. The matter-of-fact treatment of female dwarves' physical
appearance was very nicely done, giving a new twist to our accustomed
notion of graybeards. And the use of the refrain [There was no escape]
was most effective, bringing to mind Ori's haunting words in FOTR:
["We cannot get out."]

Well done!


Title: The Rose in the Fisted Glove · Author: Jael · Genres: Drama:
Second Age or Earlier · ID: 240
Reviewer: crowdaughter · 2007-12-12 23:09:02
[May contain spoilers]

There is so much in this story that makes it worth reading: The slash
element, tastefully executed, that comes over so naturally and
believably since it is more a kind of warrior's comfort, that there is
no need to take some extra effort at suspension of disbelief; as I
normally do when I read LOTR slash; the easy comradeship between
Thranduil and his esquire here, that then necessarily changes on
Galion's side after the tragic outcome of the second chapter to that
of a subject toward his king; and, not the least, the great view we
are given at Noldorin (rather sinister) politics, and at the uneasy
relationship between Gil-galad and his uppity leading claim, and
Oropher; seen only from the sidelines, here, but still quite clearly.

Add to this a few jabs at Elendil's host and the customs of men from
the view of the Grey-elven protagonists, and the clever and well
working mood change - as well as the change of POV - between the first
and the much more grim second chapter, and this short story gives an
excellent view at the events around that infamous charge at the start
of the Last Alliance. An excellent story, perfectly written, and a
very satisfying read, with a very distinct Grey-elven perspective on
those events. One of my favorites. :)

Title: A Ranger's Love (Song to Arda) · Author: Michelle · Races: Men:
Eriador or Rivendell · ID: 112
Reviewer: crowdaughter · 2007-12-12 23:15:08
A wonderful, very effective view at the way Aragorn would feel about
the land he is wandering during his ranger years. I love the poetic
language, and the great images. Lovely and makes one wanting for more! :)

Title: Tamer's Tale · Author: juno_magic · Races: Cross-Cultural · ID: 41
Reviewer: crowdaughter · 2007-12-12 23:27:40
What an intriguing and unusual tale, and what a clever way to deal
with that specific problem about the binding to the Hroa of those of
the Ainur who chose to get... involved with trhe creatures of Arda and
the incarnates. I never imagined that such a pairing could work, but
you pull it off very believably and very convincingly. I also like the
way that this story and its solution is fitted by you to canon, and
how the impact and repercussions of the events given here later
explain the outcome of the events in Moria. Very, very well done! I
really like it! Brava!

Title: Room with a View · Author: Beth · Races: Elves · ID: 459
Reviewer: Raksha the Demon · 2007-12-13 07:49:12
Unusual and interesting story about the (relatively) early life of
Elrond. It's the courtship scenes of Elrond and Celebrian, the
transition of his interest in her from that of cousin to
lover/husband; that I liked best, but the entire tale is well-written.

Title: Rohan's Future · Author: Madeleine · Genres: Humor: Gondor or
Rohan · ID: 79
Reviewer: Raksha the Demon · 2007-12-13 08:23:33
A delightful romp through early Fourth Age Edoras with Amrothos
baby-sitting his nephews and niece while Rohan's King and Queen are
away. Wackiness ensues when the high-spirited and resourceful little
Eorlings do their best to drive their poor uncle crazy.

Excellent use of language in this well-written story.

Title: The Last Leaf to Fall · Author: Robinka · Genres: Romance:
Second Age or Earlier · ID: 546
Reviewer: Rhapsody · 2007-12-13 08:36:48
[this review contains spoilers!]

This story has a special place in my heart and is written with great
symbolism and themes true to Tolkien’s works. It tells the tale of a
common woman, daughter of an innkeeper that once found her true love,
but it comes at a great cost and inevitable doom for her. So far, that
sounds like true romance story. What makes this story so poignant is
the elements Robinka wove into this tale. From the start, you know
that the lady in question remained single, yet she is so wistful and
waits for a signal. That hook at the start alone makes you want to sit
up and read. In its essence, Robinka uses elements from Tolkien’s
letters regarding elf and man unions (letter 153 to be precise) and
takes that to give us a beautiful take on how Beleg found love, which
remained true to him until the end. Never feels it too forced, even
the erotic bits: it just fits. Beleg is written enigmatically, yet
protective, and responsible, Robinka’s Merilin as the curious and
exploring edain, still so new in life, yet wanting to know. Two worlds
meet and it blends in so well! Their parting still gets to me, we know
Beleg will die and no wife is mentioned and with this awareness you
deeply wish for an AU ending (Beleg Lives!), however this detail is
treated with so much love and reality. The end comes lovely and with
wisdom, Merilin chose her ending and accepted death, feeling grateful
to all what has been given to her. It is written so briefly and so
powerful, the final words make this character study so complete: she
accepted all gifts of the allfather with passion. A great workRobinka!

Hey gang,

Several reminders related to the approaching end of the 2007 MEFAs.

*******

GENERAL END-OF-AWARD NOTICES

Voting ends at 11:59:59 PM on December 30. Obviously you need to enter
any reviews you plan to enter by the end of voting. Every year there
is some confusion on this point � but barring site technical problems,
we won't let people enter reviews after the end of voting. (If you do
have technical problems, please email techsupport@mefawards.net BEFORE
THE END OF VOTING.)

Also, don't forget to make sure you've given all of your reviews the
status you want to give them. You won't be able to edit your reviews
after voting ends, so make sure the status is correct.

To change a review's draft you will need to edit the vote. See
www.mefawards.net/MEFA2007/index.php?page=FAQvoting#vot_7

*******

REMEMBER: December has 31 days. December 30 is the day *before* New
Year's Eve.

REMEMBER: All MEFA times are GMT. To find out the current site time,
go to any page at www.mefawards.net/MEFA2007/, or reload a page if
you're already there. Look in the lower left corner for "Page served at."

REMEMBER: hidden reviews will be displayed to all site visitors at the
end of voting. Change a hidden review to draft if you don't want it to
be shown.

REMEMBER: draft reviews won't be counted. Change a draft review to
hidden if you want it to be counted.

*******

PASSWORD AND ACCOUNT ISSUES

If you do not yet have an account at the voting site and want one,
please join the MEFAwards Yahoo group at
groups.yahoo.com/group/MEFAward/. You will be sent a password to log
in to our voting website within a day or two, but these things are set
up by hand. So it's crucial that you do NOT wait until the last second
to request an account if you'd like to vote. You will not be able to
enter late votes just because we weren't able to set you up an account
in time. I suggest requesting an account by December 26 at the latest
if you plan on voting.

If you forgot your password, or otherwise are having difficulties
accessing the site, please email mefasupport@gmail.com. Do this sooner
rather than later. I will answer as quickly as I can, but as I am a
volunteer it sometimes takes me a day or two to respond to questions.

******

REMEMBER: If you need help, then ASK. We want to help you. :-) But ask
sooner rather than later if you know you have a problem.

*******

BANNERS

Banners are different this year than they were last year. Last year
people created banners and buttons to meet certain themes, so that all
the users who won first place in drama (for instance) used the same
banner.

This year, we have created a pool of banners and buttons. Authors may
choose one for each story that wins a place or honorable mention, and
it will be customized to show subcategory and place won. This will be
done by MEFA volunteers.

If you are artistically inclined, you are welcome to create a banner
or button that the winning authors may choose from. Look at the
already-created banners at

www.mefawards.net/fanart/categories.php?cat_id=798

Do you see a category, race, time period, etc. that you think authors
might like a banner or button of? If so, feel free to create one.
Email all completed banners to banners@mefawards.net. Please leave
space for subcategories and award information to be added. By
submitting a graphic, you give us permission to edit your banner to
add in the category and award information, and you give the author
permission to display it wherever they post their story.

If you would like to help customize banners, please email
mefasupport@gmail.com. We can always use more volunteers.

******

REMEMBER: If you want to submit a banner, email banners@mefawards.net

REMEMBER: If you'd like to help customize banners for award winners,
email mefasupport@gmail.com

*******

VACATIONS

I will be visiting family for Christmas Dec. 23-27. I'll have my
laptop with me but am not sure about internet, and in any event I'll
be spending significantly less time glued to my keyboard than is usual
for me. I'll try to still do awards stuff as needed, but my response
time will probably be slower.

I mention this in advance so, if you do have any problems or concerns,
we can handle it before I go. Please, if you need help with something,
let's try to fix the problem sooner rather than later. I'd hate for
you not to get to participate in the awards like you want to because I
couldn't reply quickly enough.

*******

REMEMBER: I will have less computer time December 23-27. So it may
take me longer to reply.

*******

QUOTES

It seems that some people are still a little confused about how to
handle quotes in their reviews. If you would like to quote a passage,
you need to include square brackets around it: [ before the beginning
of your quote and ] at the end of it.

You need to do this for quotes from the story being reviewed, quotes
from the movies or Tolkien's books, or quotes from any other sources.

You do *not* need to put square brackets around things inside quotes
marks, that aren't actually quotes. For instance if you use square
quotes to suggest you're using a term loosely, or if you give the
title of a short story or chapter, you'd put quotes-marks around those
things but you aren't quoting passages from someone else. So, you
don't *need* to put square brackets around them. (Some people prefer
to do this if the title is long, but this is their personal choice.)

If you are having a hard time with this � please don't feel bad! It
really is quite confusing, and I'm happy to work with you to get the
problem sorted out.

If you see a review with quotes improperly marked, please email
mefasupport@gmail.com Include the story ID, title and author,
reviewer, and what needs correcting.

*******

REMEMBER: When using a quote in your review, do it like this:

["In a hole in the ground, there lived a hobbit."]

REMEMBER: If you see a review that needs to have quotes fixed, email
mefasupport@gmail.com

*******

POST MORTEM

Beginning after the results are announced, we will be having a
post-mortem at the mefa-discussion group. All are invited to join
there and participate. I will be posting to this group when a new
topic is posted, and again at the end of the post-mortem I'll post our
decisions about things that will change to this group. But the actual
discussion should happen at mefa-discussion. Join at
groups.yahoo.com/group/mefa-discussion/

Don't start discussing until I give the go-ahead, but do start
thinking about what you'd like to discuss.

*******

I think that's it! Happy end-of-the-awards to everyone. I will most
likely post here once more, a few days before the end of voting, but
otherwise I'll stay out of your hair and let you spend your MEFA time
actually voting.

Marta

Question: not related directly to voting per se, but to WIPs and the end of voting. I am trying to finish a WIP before the 30th. Doesn't look hopeful now, but just in case, when is it too late to change a WIP to a finished work?


-----Original Message-----
From: aure_enteluva <melayton@gmail.com>
To: mefawards@yahoogroups.com
Sent: Thu, 13 Dec 2007 4:13 pm
Subject: [MEFAwards] Various Topics Related to End of Awards






Hey gang,

Several reminders related to the approaching end of the 2007 MEFAs.

*******

GENERAL END-OF-AWARD NOTICES

Voting ends at 11:59:59 PM on December 30. Obviously you need to enter
any reviews you plan to enter by the end of voting. Every year there
is some confusion on this point  but barring site technical problems,
we won't let people enter reviews after the end of voting. (If you do
have technical problems, please email techsupport@mefawards.net BEFORE
THE END OF VOTING.)

Also, don't forget to make sure you've given all of your reviews the
status you want to give them. You won't be able to edit your reviews
after voting ends, so make sure the status is correct.

To change a review's draft you will need to edit the vote. See
www.mefawards.net/MEFA2007/index.php?page=FAQvoting#vot_7

*******

REMEMBER: December has 31 days. December 30 is the day *before* New
Year's Eve.

REMEMBER: All MEFA times are GMT. To find out the current site time,
go to any page at www.mefawards.net/MEFA2007/, or reload a page if
you're already there. Look in the lower left corner for "Page served at."

REMEMBER: hidden reviews will be displayed to all site visitors at the
end of voting. Change a hidden review to draft if you don't want it to
be shown.

REMEMBER: draft reviews won't be counted. Change a draft review to
hidden if you want it to be counted.

*******

PASSWORD AND ACCOUNT ISSUES

If you do not yet have an account at the voting site and want one,
please join the MEFAwards Yahoo group at
groups.yahoo.com/group/MEFAward/. You will be sent a password to log
in to our voting website within a day or two, but these things are set
up by hand. So it's crucial that you do NOT wait until the last second
to request an account if you'd like to vote. You will not be able to
enter late votes just because we weren't able to set you up an account
in time. I suggest requesting an account by December 26 at the latest
if you plan on voting.

If you forgot your password, or otherwise are having difficulties
accessing the site, please email mefasupport@gmail.com. Do this sooner
rather than later. I will answer as quickly as I can, but as I am a
volunteer it sometimes takes me a day or two to respond to questions.

******

REMEMBER: If you need help, then ASK. We want to help you. :-) But ask
sooner rather than later if you know you have a problem.

*******

BANNERS

Banners are different this year than they were last year. Last year
people created banners and buttons to meet certain themes, so that all
the users who won first place in drama (for instance) used the same
banner.

This year, we have created a pool of banners and buttons. Authors may
choose one for each story that wins a place or honorable mention, and
it will be customized to show subcategory and place won. This will be
done by MEFA volunteers.

If you are artistically inclined, you are welcome to create a banner
or button that the winning authors may choose from. Look at the
already-created banners at

www.mefawards.net/fanart/categories.php?cat_id=798

Do you see a category, race, time period, etc. that you think authors
might like a banner or button of? If so, feel free to create one.
Email all completed banners to banners@mefawards.net. Please leave
space for subcategories and award information to be added. By
submitting a graphic, you give us permission to edit your banner to
add in the category and award information, and you give the author
permission to display it wherever they post their story.

If you would like to help customize banners, please email
mefasupport@gmail.com. We can always use more volunteers.

******

REMEMBER: If you want to submit a banner, email banners@mefawards.net

REMEMBER: If you'd like to help customize banners for award winners,
email mefasupport@gmail.com

*******

VACATIONS

I will be visiting family for Christmas Dec. 23-27. I'll have my
laptop with me but am not sure about internet, and in any event I'll
be spending significantly less time glued to my keyboard than is usual
for me. I'll try to still do awards stuff as needed, but my response
time will probably be slower.

I mention this in advance so, if you do have any problems or concerns,
we can handle it before I go. Please, if you need help with something,
let's try to fix the problem sooner rather than later. I'd hate for
you not to get to participate in the awards like you want to because I
couldn't reply quickly enough.

*******

REMEMBER: I will have less computer time December 23-27. So it may
take me longer to reply.

*******

QUOTES

It seems that some people are still a little confused about how to
handle quotes in their reviews. If you would like to quote a passage,
you need to include square brackets around it: [ before the beginning
of your quote and ] at the end of it.

You need to do this for quotes from the story being reviewed, quotes
from the movies or Tolkien's books, or quotes from any other sources.

You do *not* need to put square brackets around things inside quotes
marks, that aren't actually quotes. For instance if you use square
quotes to suggest you're using a term loosely, or if you give the
title of a short story or chapter, you'd put quotes-marks around those
things but you aren't quoting passages from someone else. So, you
don't *need* to put square brackets around them. (Some people prefer
to do this if the title is long, but this is their personal choice.)

If you are having a hard time with this  please don't feel bad! It
really is quite confusing, and I'm happy to work with you to get the
problem sorted out.

If you see a review with quotes improperly marked, please email
mefasupport@gmail.com Include the story ID, title and author,
reviewer, and what needs correcting.

*******

REMEMBER: When using a quote in your review, do it like this:

["In a hole in the ground, there lived a hobbit."]

REMEMBER: If you see a review that needs to have quotes fixed, email
mefasupport@gmail.com

*******

POST MORTEM

Beginning after the results are announced, we will be having a
post-mortem at the mefa-discussion group. All are invited to join
there and participate. I will be posting to this group when a new
topic is posted, and again at the end of the post-mortem I'll post our
decisions about things that will change to this group. But the actual
discussion should happen at mefa-discussion. Join at
groups.yahoo.com/group/mefa-discussion/

Don't start discussing until I give the go-ahead, but do start
thinking about what you'd like to discuss.

*******

I think that's it! Happy end-of-the-awards to everyone. I will most
likely post here once more, a few days before the end of voting, but
otherwise I'll stay out of your hair and let you spend your MEFA time
actually voting.

Marta





________________________________________________________________________
More new features than ever. Check out the new AOL Mail ! - http://webmail.aol.com


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

Hi Oshun,

Officially you can change it up until the end of voting (so December
30), though it's probably best to get it changed as early as possible.

HTH!

Marta

heartofoshun@aol.com wrote:

>
>
> Question: not related directly to voting per se, but to WIPs and the end
> of voting. I am trying to finish a WIP before the 30th. Doesn't look
> hopeful now, but just in case, when is it too late to change a WIP to a
> finished work?
>

Officially you can change it up until the end of voting (so December
30), though it's probably best to get it changed as early as possible.
Well, it's not finished yet. And then it has to be Betaed, but just wanted to know, just in case everything falls into place with absolute perfection....


-----Original Message-----
From: melayton@gmail.com <melayton@gmail.com>
To: MEFAwards@yahoogroups.com
Sent: Fri, 14 Dec 2007 6:12 am
Subject: Re: [MEFAwards] Various Topics Related to End of Awards






Hi Oshun,

Officially you can change it up until the end of voting (so December
30), though it's probably best to get it changed as early as possible.

HTH!

Marta

heartofoshun@aol.com wrote:

>
>
> Question: not related directly to voting per se, but to WIPs and the end
> of voting. I am trying to finish a WIP before the 30th. Doesn't look
> hopeful now, but just in case, when is it too late to change a WIP to a
> finished work?
>

________________________________________________________________________
More new features than ever. Check out the new AOL Mail ! - http://webmail.aol.com


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

Hi Oshun,

> >Officially you can change it up until the end of voting (so December
> >30), though it's probably best to get it changed as early as possible.

> Well, it's not finished yet. And then it has to be Betaed, but just
> wanted to know, just in case everything falls into place with absolute
> perfection....
>

Understood. It's good to ask these questions.

If you don't finish it in time, it will always be eligible to compete as
a finished story in future years. Whenever you do finish it, it can be
nominated again. So it's not like it will never be able to run as a
finished story.

Congrats on getting so close to being done, btw.

Marta

Marta,

The title is not correct. It should be *Elf, Interrupted: Book One:
Glorfindel Redux.*

If you could make the correction, I would appreciate it. Thanks.

Fiondil

On Dec 12, 2007 5:47 PM, melayton@gmail.com <melayton@gmail.com> wrote:

> Hey guys,
>
> Fiondil finished his story "Elf Interrupted: Book One: Glorfindel." It
> was in Elves: Incomplete but is now in Drama: Elves in Later Ages.
>
> Marta
>
>



--
Auta i l�m�! Ut�lie'n aur�! � Battle Cry of the Noldor at the Dagor
Nirnaeth Arnediad

Aur� entuluva! � Battle Cry of H�rin at the Dagor Nirnath Arnediad

Ut�lie'n Estel � Hope hath come


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

Arthur Boccaccio wrote:

> Marta,
>
> The title is not correct. It should be *Elf, Interrupted: Book One:
> Glorfindel Redux.*
>
> If you could make the correction, I would appreciate it. Thanks.
>
> Fiondil
>

Hi Fiondil,

I believe I've made the correction correctly this time. Please let me
know if it's still not correct.

Thanks,

Marta

Thanks, Marta. It looks good. Talk to you later.

Fiondil

On Dec 14, 2007 10:54 PM, melayton@gmail.com <melayton@gmail.com> wrote:

> Arthur Boccaccio wrote:
> > Marta,
> >
> > The title is not correct. It should be *Elf, Interrupted: Book One:
> > Glorfindel Redux.*
> >
> > If you could make the correction, I would appreciate it. Thanks.
> >
> > Fiondil
> >
>
> Hi Fiondil,
>
> I believe I've made the correction correctly this time. Please let me
> know if it's still not correct.
>
> Thanks,
>
> Marta
>
>
>



--
Auta i l�m�! Ut�lie'n aur�! � Battle Cry of the Noldor at the Dagor
Nirnaeth Arnediad

Aur� entuluva! � Battle Cry of H�rin at the Dagor Nirnath Arnediad

Ut�lie'n Estel � Hope hath come


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

Title: A Song of Silence · Author: Nessime · Races: Men · ID: 156
Reviewer: Larner · 2007-12-13 10:31:21
Her mother-in-law had lost her hearing as a child as the result of a
high fever from a epidemic that cost her her parents as well. But the
Rohirric lady had yet found a way of singing in spite of being mute.

A marvelous tale of creativity and the need to preserve the past.

Title: A Queen Among Farmers' Wives · Author: Imhiriel · Genres:
Humor: Drabble · ID: 635
Reviewer: Isabeau of Greenlea · 2007-12-13 11:18:00
Goodness, but hobbits are resilient! One moment Farmer Maggot is laid
out on the floor by his irate wife's rolling pin, the next he's
feeling frisky. A cute look at what might happen when Maggot comes
back from visiting Tom Bombadil in less than sober condition.

Title: Crossing towards Sunrise · Author: Imhiriel · Times: Fourth Age
and Beyond · ID: 14
Reviewer: Larner · 2007-12-13 11:28:14
What do the Ringbearers, and particularly Elrond, anticipate as the
ship approaches the quays of Tol Eressea? Elrond, after all, has known
more than his share of sorrow and loss. What will it take to aid this
healer to know healing himself?

Marvelous look at Gandalf's thoughts on his companions.

Title: Between Crown and Mantle · Author: Marastar · Times: Late Third
Age: 3018-3022 TA · ID: 701
Reviewer: Larner · 2007-12-13 11:34:03
Having written my own version of the last battle of Ondoher and his
sons against the forces of the Wainriders and other enemies encouraged
by the Necromancer, this was a fascinating look at that period through
the eyes of Eowyn and Gandalf, inspired by an ancient tapestry. Love
the image of the aging tapestry melting away due to time and moths.

Very thought-provoking, and excellent imagery.

Title: Anchor · Author: Songspinner · Genres: Drama: Elves in Later
Ages · ID: 772
Reviewer: Larner · 2007-12-13 11:45:23
Legolas finds the anchors he needs to remain within Middle Earth while
it is needful. Poignant.

Title: Tom Cotton · Author: Dreamflower · Races: Hobbits: Post-Grey
Havens · ID: 774
Reviewer: Larner · 2007-12-13 11:51:54
What the four Travelers went through together has changed them and
their relationships with those they knew before. Now Sam's first son
is born, and young Tom Cotton refrains--for the moment, at least--to
join them, for the fourth they would prefer to sit there....

Sad and thoughtful, but filled with the steady hope of the Shire.

Title: Descent · Author: Dwimordene · Times: Early Third Age: 1-2850
TA · ID: 632
Reviewer: Larner · 2007-12-13 12:06:39
Valacar is dying, and already Eldecar and Castamir are in contention,
with those who dwell in Pelargir caught in the midst of the tug-of-war
for rule.

A thoughtful look at how this situation affects the lives of two from
disparate homelands, come to dwell midway between their worlds.

Title: Mushrooms · Author: claudia6032000 · Genres: Drama: The
Fellowship · ID: 561
Reviewer: Larner · 2007-12-13 12:28:08
Frodo learns a painful lesson as he mistakes mushrooms he finds within
Hollin for a common variety enjoyed at home; he's only grateful that
for once Pippin listened to threats uttered and leaves them alone.

Poor Frodo!

Title: Keeper of the Jewels · Author: Cuthalion · Genres: Adventure:
Minas Tirith · ID: 64
Reviewer: Larner · 2007-12-13 12:32:59
Ah, such a marvelous tale! The keeper of the Citadel's jewels has
turned the duty over to his daughter; but it is his wish to restore
the rule of the Steward. In the meantime his daughter finds herself
being used to facilitate her father's twisted plan, leading to an
attempt to kidnap the Ringbearer so as to use him to coerce Aragorn
into a vulnerable position. However, they don't manage to get the
right Hobbit!

A page turner if there ever was one!

Title: The man in the woods · Author: Dot · Races: Men: Eriador or
Rivendell · ID: 13
Reviewer: Larner · 2007-12-13 12:35:47
A child finds a stranger in the woods of Eriador; and it is up to her
and her brother to deal with the situation. A horrible way to learn
the truth that rangering isn't about adventure and fame and glory, but
about dealing with enemies and all too often dealing in death.

Well told.

Title: For the Dwarves, Gimli · Author: annmarwalk · Races: Dwarves ·
ID: 155
Reviewer: Larner · 2007-12-13 12:38:20
Ah, humorous and poignant at the same time, we see Gimli's mother
fretting over the possible fate of her son on this quest of theirs!
This one is well, well worth the read as we look into the homelife of
Gimli son of Gloin.

A superb tale.

Title: Some Dark Place · Author: Raksha the Demon · Genres: Adventure:
Fixed-Length Ficlet · ID: 226
Reviewer: Larner · 2007-12-13 12:44:53
Now we know how it was that Aragorn came to the wisdom concerning the
wraiths he speaks to the Hobbits. A marvelous gapfiller based on the
quote from the book--excellent use of tension.

Title: Holding onto Hope · Author: Alassante · Times: First Age and
Prior · ID: 368
Reviewer: Larner · 2007-12-13 17:29:02
Ah, the deathly pride of the sons of Feanor; at least Celebrimbor was
able to breach it.


Title: ...To the Edge of Night: Seven Tells of a Moment · Author: Elen
Kortirion · Races: Men: Other Fixed-Length Ficlet · ID: 439
Reviewer: Larner · 2007-12-13 17:35:26
The feelings of seven who experienced Denethor sending his younger son
to retake Osgiliath in that movie moment. Each of the seven drabbles
is a gem in its own right.

Title: Starlit Memories · Author: Ellie · Genres: Romance: Second Age
or Earlier · ID: 510
Reviewer: Larner · 2007-12-13 17:40:52
Glorfindel has reason to rejoice, as he looks at rejoining his wife
and family after countless yeni of separation. Looking at the
starlight one can feel his joy.

Title: In the Bloody Cottage · Author: Soubrettina · Races: Men:
Eriador or Rivendell · ID: 581
Reviewer: Larner · 2007-12-13 17:53:08
Ah, it's been a time since I first read this one, as we see the birth
of Aragorn, necessarily by caesarian section, through Gilraen's eyes.
Poor but proud are the Dunedain, complete with goats and chickens.

Title: The princess from the sea : a Gondorian fairy-tale · Author:
Fawsley · Genres: Alternate Universe · ID: 652
Reviewer: Larner · 2007-12-13 18:00:25
Indeed a fairy tale as we see Finduilas coming from the small castle
by the sea that she shared with her brother to seek a marriage with
the Steward. Told in traditional threes, this is very sweetly done.

Title: Thyme is a great healer · Author: Tanaqui · Times: Fourth Age
and Beyond: Drabble · ID: 723
Reviewer: Larner · 2007-12-13 18:03:57
The presence and scent of herbs remind both Faramir and Sam, visiting
at last from the Shire, of those they've lost. It is said that the
sense of smell is closest to the old brain and can evoke the most
basic and intense of memories; certainly both these two find it so.

Perfect.

Title: Rain on the Downs · Author: Breon Briarwood · Races: Hobbits ·
ID: 794
Reviewer: Larner · 2007-12-13 18:10:38
A wonderful tale of childhood adventures, unfortunately one that
didn't happen as did the real one so many years later. But burned
fingers can teach a lesson.

Title: Night Terrors · Author: Tanaqui · Times: Mid Third Age: 2851 -
3017 TA: Drabble · ID: 752
Reviewer: Larner · 2007-12-13 18:15:39
Ah, if only all night terrors could be reduced to a mother intent on
seeing her child clean and being put to bed when the child would
gladly stay up but a time longer.

A sweet tale.

Title: Frodo's Thoughts - Boromir · Author: trikywun · Genres: Drama:
General Drabble · ID: 674
Reviewer: Llinos · 2007-12-13 18:19:03
This drabble brings up some interesting thoughts that I hadn't really
considered before in so much depth and does a good job of highlighting
Frodo's intelligence and compassion. Yes, we know that Frodo was
certainly concerned for his companions in regards to physical danger
but the depth of consideration he gives here to Boromir's possible
emotional and moral damage is well thought out.

It is clear that Frodo understands what is going on with Boromir, both
because he is intelligent and well-read and so understands the wider
political implications that Boromir must feel constrained to obey
despite his new oath and also, because of his compassion, the more
personal dilemma that the man of Gondor must wrestle with. Not to
mention his intimate knowledge of the strain that Boromir is under -
as Frodo himself must constantly struggle against the hold of the Ring
there is no one that could understand quite so well what is going on
in Boromir's mind.

Frodo's empathy is excellent in this and very true to his character. A
fine drabble!

Title: Charcoal, Stone and Cloud · Author: shadow975 · Races: Men ·
ID: 610
Reviewer: Larner · 2007-12-13 18:36:40
Did Aragorn reveal his past as Thorongil to Boromir during the journey
southwards? If so, I certainly hope it WAS like this!

Yea, Boromir has met the King to be Returned, and has at last
recognized an old friend.

Title: Shadows of the Past · Author: Marta · Genres: Drama: General
Drabble · ID: 331
Reviewer: Llinos · 2007-12-13 18:38:51
(Spoiler Alert)

I liked the style of this drabble and thought that it was well-done
and very effective written as it was in the first person. There is a
simple innocence and beauty in the descriptions of the gravesite,
beneath the willows and surrounded by sunflowers, that is perfect for
the River Folk.

It is also chilling though, as I felt myself wondering what Smeagol's
state of mind was like as he prepared the grave in tribute to his
friend; did he even truly realise, other than in a hidden part of his
already twisted mind, that he himself had killed Deagol? And how sad
that a place of beauty had to be used for such a purpose, meaning that
even the simple pleasure of the memory of the place is tainted. A
wonderful example of how the Ring corrupts everything.

Contrasting the golden ring of sunflowers with the evil and
unwholesome Ring was a nice touch. Well done Marta!

Title: Snare · Author: Ruby Nye · Times: Late Third Age: 3018-3022 TA
· ID: 539
Reviewer: Larner · 2007-12-13 18:41:24
How does one capture a ruffian for the purposes of the Thain? Pervinca
Took shows how it is done, as awful a job as it proves.

An excellent look at the courage and steadfastness of the best of
Hobbitry.

Title: The spaces between two silences · Author: illyria-pffyffin ·
Genres: Drama: With Aragorn · ID: 677
Reviewer: Marta · 2007-12-13 18:43:40
You portrayed Aragorn's and Arwen's love really well, especially how
Aragorn's experiences in Harad changed him and subsequently the way
she viewed him. I wouldn't have thought of it, but the way you wrote
it makes perfect sense. Good job!

Title: Frodo's Thoughts - Sam · Author: trikywun · Genres: Drama:
General Drabble · ID: 786
Reviewer: Llinos · 2007-12-13 18:52:59
(Spoiler Alert)

This drabble is a beautiful example of love in its purest form -
nonsexual, although slash fans could read that into it - but to me it
is more about devotion and kinship and unquestioning loyalty. The
clever way that it could also be read as slash should that be the
reader's preference seems to me to be skilfully done.

The author has really summed up Sam's character here, and indirectly
Frodo's too, for Sam wouldn't evidence this heroic devotion towards
Frodo without good reason. Nice grasp of the characters.

Title: The Waves' Song · Author: Branwyn · Genres: Drama: General
Drabble · ID: 6
Reviewer: Llinos · 2007-12-13 19:05:33
This is a beautiful drabble for all its sadness, and it is very sad
indeed. And yet there is a sense of quiet strength flowing through it
as well. I loved the seafaring terms as Arwen faces her end; the sea
theme is exactly right, a stunning way to throw into sharp focus the
reality that Arwen will never cross the sea as her kindred did but
will make a far different voyage herself.

The language and descriptions are haunting and paint a scene that is
almost startlingly vivid. This is an excellent drabble!

Title: Frodo's Thoughts - Aragorn · Author: trikywun · Genres: Drama:
General Drabble · ID: 785
Reviewer: Llinos · 2007-12-13 19:18:23
This author seems to have a real knack for getting inside Frodo's head
and reading his thoughts. I thought that her Boromir drabble on the
same theme was impressive and feel the same about this one. I hope
that she continues the series with the rest of the Fellowship,
especially the hobbits.

Again, as with the Boromir drabble, Frodo succinctly gets right to the
heart of the matter in his consideration of what the implications of
his bearing the Ring has on another member of the Fellowship, this
time Aragorn.

What I particularly found interesting about this one is Frodo's clear
desire to be considered a friend by Aragorn, something that didn't
appear to concern him in his thoughts about Boromir in the previous
drabble. I found this to be wonderfully subtle. I also thought that it
was very hobbitlike, counting friendship to be the most important
aspect of his relationship with someone that he clearly respects and
considers, for his part, to be a friend.

I am looking forward to reading more by this new author.


Title: Oliphaunts and String · Author: agape4gondor · Genres: Drama:
Other Fixed-Length Ficlet · ID: 658
Reviewer: Inkling · 2007-12-13 21:02:02
The whimsical title of this ficlet gives no hint to the sad,
disturbing story that unfolds. That Smeagol calls the captive frog an
oliphant hearkens back to happier days listening to the folk tales of
his grandmother...days that, like his sweet voice, are now gone
forever. Well done!

Title: Making Acquaintance · Author: Bodkin · Times: Mid Third Age:
2851 - 3017 TA · ID: 216
Reviewer: Pearl Took · 2007-12-13 21:03:37
A absolutely marvelous possibility of the first meeting of Meriadoc
Brandybuck and Peregrin Took with Gandalf the Grey. How kind of the
old wizard to show up in time to rescue an errant little Took! Perfect
from beginning to end!

Title: Another Doom · Author: mrkinch · Races: Men: Gondor Drabble ·
ID: 663
Reviewer: Imhiriel · 2007-12-14 00:44:55
Insightful look into Boromir's mind and heart, and a very plausible
reason for why he "took away" the journey to Imladris from Faramir who
had dreamed the riddle-dream more often than Boromir.

There is tangible despair in Boromir, a feeling of being driven,
despite being certain that struggle against the Shadow will be futile
and doomed at the last. But also the doubt, or at least, anxious
question whether Faramir might understand Boromir's reasoning, might
understand that only hard action without much time for thought lets
him go on without hope.

I loved the ambiguity of the final line, the double-meaning of
["unlooked-for hope"]. It is perhaps not even certain whether Boromir
welcomes this new hope, which shakes the certainty he has drawn from
the expectation that the end is near.

Title: Escape · Author: Bodkin · Times: Mid Third Age: 2851 - 3017 TA
· ID: 24
Reviewer: Imhiriel · 2007-12-14 00:45:24
Effective storytelling, where the smallest and most innocuous details,
like a small caterpillar or an itching calf, increase tension and
peril. Switching between the PoV of the Ranger and that of the Elf is
also an effective technique.

Good characterisation despite the anonymity of the protagonists
(although I have a good guess just who at least the Ranger is). I like
the wry, resigned tone of the Ranger's thoughts despite the danger he
is in.

Believable rendition of Radagast and his home.

Title: Watching and Waiting · Author: Llinos · Genres: Poetry: With
Hobbits · ID: 796
Reviewer: Imhiriel · 2007-12-14 00:46:05
Technically clean, and the "narrative" never seems pressed into form
artificially.

The voices of the characters are captured well in the poetic form. I
like how the two halves echo each other and are indicative of the deep
bond between the two cousins and the roles they play for each other,
and how their separation is effecting and disturbing them.

Enjoyable and moving interweaving of memories of the past with hopes
for the future.

Title: Stone from Above · Author: Thundera Tiger · Races: Men · ID: 284
Reviewer: Imhiriel · 2007-12-14 00:46:55
Viscerally gripping descriptions of the battle of Helm's Deep, leading
the readers to the eye-level, so to speak, of the simple soldiers, and
to the level where the fighting becomes more and more difficult the
longer it takes, where both victory and loss present new obstacles for
both sides.

Háma's thoughts and sensations are conveyed clearly, especially his
determination to serve to the very end, ruthless against himself and
the great pain his fatal wound must be causing him.

The process and order of the battle smoothly builds on what is known
from canon. The tension builds smoothly, aided by the back-and-forth
between Háma's doings and the battle going on below, towards the -
literal - impact of the climax.

Title: Darkness Visible · Author: Tanaqui · Times: Late Third Age:
3018-3022 TA: Gondor Drabble · ID: 725
Reviewer: Imhiriel · 2007-12-14 00:49:02
Very powerful, evocative imagery. The appearance and force of the
recalled approaching storm is captured in marvellous details. I liked
the balance between the force of the storm and the expectation of its
benign and welcomed results.

The marvellous second paragraph builds on these pictures, yet the
readers can immediately sense that despite some surface similarities,
*this* approaching darkness if of a completely different quality, a
malicious, insidious, poisonous quality. The imagery of darkness as
grasping, stealing the warmth, torturing the earth gives it a very
real, sinister, downright creepy presence, as if it was an embodiment
of Sauron himself.

My favourite detail is, I believe, that of the air tasting ["of the
iron anger of earth tortured beyond endurance"]; it brings together a
great variety of sensory information to form a very poignant image.

Title: Comforting Silence · Author: Radbooks · Times: Fourth Age and
Beyond: Gondor or Rohan · ID: 157
Reviewer: Imhiriel · 2007-12-14 00:49:52
Excellent characterisation and insightful look into the relationship
between Faramir and Aragorn.

The PoV of Faramir is very sensitively written, which is, under the
circumstances, not an easy feat to accomplish. His grief and sorrow is
palpable, and all this colours his thoughts. But nevertheless his
perception is as incisive and clear as ever, he is able to detach
himself - to some degree - from his emotions and put everything that
is happening in perspective, and fully appreciate Aragorn's silent
companionship.

I think Aragorn did exactly the right thing, even when he must be
grieving for Éowyn's loss himself. Being there, open for anything
Faramir might do or say or need from him, but without putting any
pressure on him to be communicative or coherent. His everyday gestures
are able to relax Faramir as no deliberate effort at comfort might
have done.

Title: Hiraeth · Author: Llinos · Genres: Poetry · ID: 803
Reviewer: Imhiriel · 2007-12-14 00:50:47
A very atmospheric poem that has a marvellously "elvish" feel about it.

The style, rhyme scheme and language perfectly complement each other
and the subject matter.

The language is especially lovely: lush and resonant, capturing the
look and feel of the nature described very poignantly.

The relentness of the sea-longing is conveyed very well, especially
when set against the calmness of the setting; and I liked how you have
combined it with and compared it to the moon's influence on the tides.

I especially loved how you have captured that particular kind of
stillness and peacefulness the narrator feels in his home/in nature,
as if being in a comforting embrace.

Title: Future Imperfect · Author: Tanaqui · Times: Mid Third Age: 2851
- 3017 TA · ID: 749
Reviewer: Imhiriel · 2007-12-14 00:51:24
Good characterisations of all three protagonists - no easy feat
considering that the readers never "see" Denethor and Adrahil
directly, and can only infer from what and how they speak, and how
Faramir interprets what he hears and observes.

It's ironic how the tendency of grandparents to indulge their
grandchildren can express itself here only by Adrahil attempting to
get a posting for Faramir that is a *little* less dangerous - knowing
full well there is no *real* safety wherever Faramir would go.

I very much like the Faramir's description of Ithilien as a
["mysterious land"] ["shrouded in secrecy"]. It reminded me of your
drabble ["Crossing"], and captures, I think, not only the land, but
also the Rangers guarding and defending it, as you show also here in
this story.

Title: Passages · Author: Isabeau of Greenlea · Genres: Drama:
Incomplete · ID: 60
Reviewer: Imhiriel · 2007-12-14 00:52:41
An engaging story that combines elements of exciting adventure, moving
character interaction, thought-provoking themes and sparkling humour.

Excellent characterisations, regardless of whether original or canon
characters, or whether long-established or new ones. There are
credible character arcs throughout, and the characters and
relationships change and adapt with new developments

I especially like Brandmir's courage, (relative) sangfroid,
resourcefulness, and caring for the other children during their
kidnapping.

It's sad to see Brand and Andrahar drifting apart after Brand's
discovery of the truth of Andra's and Boromir's relationship, but a
realistic stage in the experiences of young adults who find that their
elders also have clay feet. This subject matter is examined very
sensitively, always interwoven well into the plot and grounded in the
specific characteristics of the people involved.

The dreams or visions Brand has from his father were very moving,
despite - or perhaps because - being such an unsentimental "reunion"
between father and son.

Title: Descent · Author: Dwimordene · Times: Early Third Age: 1-2850
TA · ID: 632
Reviewer: Imhiriel · 2007-12-14 00:53:23
The backdrop for this story comes alive in all its bustling, colourful
activity; it appeals to all the senses in sound, scent and sight and
forms a true three-dimensional picture.

I very much enjoyed the multi-cultural aspect of this story, how
Pelargir is seen as a melting pot of many different influences.

Both this story and ["A Very Rain of Sparrows"] are concerned with the
Kin-Strife, and both show this important era in Gondor's history, the
political implications, the upheaval in the lives and society of the
citizens, from the low level of children belonging to the common populace.

This makes for narrative infused with tension, but subtly, filtered
through the limited comprehension and perception of the protagonists
at the same time as their everyday life and little personal concerns
are of more immediate interest to them, without perhaps realising just
how much the greater events impinges on those.

Title: Passages · Author: Isabeau of Greenlea · Genres: Drama:
Incomplete · ID: 60
Reviewer: Marta · 2007-12-14 01:35:53
[spoilers]

I happen to know that the author of this fun story is a member of the
SCA, and as soon as I read even the prologue it was obvious to me that
she knows her historical protocol. The details of Brand's ennoblement
were convincingly told, and all of the social/political details seemed
very convincing for a portrayal of a vaguely medieval society. Not
that her Gondor is my Gondor on every point, but it had a
"historicality" to it that I found most convincing. So the author gets
kudos from me on that point.

But where this story really takes off is its handling of OCs. We have
the bastard son of Boromir, the homosexual captain of the Swan Knights
and lover of Boromir, the woman who was captured by orcs and served
among the Rangers... any one of which might be a bit off-putting in a
less-skilled writer's hand, but Isabeau has a real knack for pulling
them off. They feel authentic to Gondor and natural within their
world, with just enough interaction with canon to make the story feel
Ardaish. I was impressed.

And, Isa: I really can't wait to read more. Please do post a new
chapter soon!

Title: Drawn With Love · Author: MerryK · Genres: Drama: Youth · ID: 569
Reviewer: Marta · 2007-12-14 01:40:26
This is a really charming portrayal of Boromir. The idea of him as
artist was novel, but surprisingly believable. It's a fine addition to
the Brothers 'Mir subgenre, but you have succeeded in making Boromir
both strong and with faults of his own. That's not easy to do, and
really adds to the depth of his character. I highly enjoyed this read.

Title: Alone, Yourself and Nameless · Author: Pearl Took · Races:
Cross-Cultural: With Pippin · ID: 434
Reviewer: pipkinsweetgrass · 2007-12-14 02:22:28
Who am I? What am I? Why am I here? These questions are as old as
human consciousness, and in this amazing story, Pearl has chosen a
wonderful character to ask them: that's right, it's the Unquenchable
Peregrin Took. This story explores the sense of self, delving into the
consciousness in a manner as thoughtful as it is emotional. Stories
like this one can ask us questions we may or may not wish to dwell
upon. The question of self, is, of course, that most difficult of
definitions, and it does not always express itself as such. While the
reader may think back on a tale like this, for all of that, this is a
story meant to take with you, for it reminds us who is truly deciding
the greater part of our destinies. Also, through the use of subtext,
we find ourselves drawn to the tale bearing further questions, some
answerable, some unanswerable. One such example is the question of the
collective conscious. So with all this depth, one might think this
would be a long story. Indeed, not. The author has addressed our
innermost being via her Pippin. Through him, she has found a
short-cut. Not to mushrooms, but to a deeper understanding of the
state of self, and of everything that cascades from this innermost
heart of our hearts. .

Title: A Queen Among Farmers' Wives · Author: Imhiriel · Genres:
Humor: Drabble · ID: 635
Reviewer: Marta · 2007-12-14 02:30:04
Oh, this was delightful! Farmer Maggot is formidable but
good-tempered, and if I was Frodo I'd be more scared of her than the
dogs. This did a really good job of capturing the hobbity joie de vive.

Title: The Steward's New Clothes · Author: GypsieRose · Genres: Humor:
Gondor or Rohan · ID: 511
Reviewer: Marta · 2007-12-14 03:30:04
Funny! Though I must admit I pity the poor tailor. The mental image of
him trying to convince Denethor to go with something more colorful was
priceless.

Title: Don't Be Deceived · Author: Imhiriel · Genres: Humor: Other
Fixed-Length Ficlet · ID: 351
Reviewer: Marta · 2007-12-14 03:43:38
[spoilers]

Oh, interesting turn-about. I can easily see this happening, though I
never imagined this scenario until I read your story -- just my
favorite type of ficlet. And it was nice that Estel was the one being
suspicious of the grungy king. Talk about irony!

Title: Sorgbyrðen · Author: Aranel Took · Races: Men · ID: 275
Reviewer: Larner · 2007-12-14 04:52:39
She watched her father ride out, expecting their patrol to be
reasonably short and with the promise of a swift return--only when at
last the eored came back her father was dead, followed soon by her
mother. Now we see how and why Eowyn became a shieldmaiden.

The determination to not be found helpless is fully understandable
after reading this well written story.

Title: Fruition · Author: EdorasLass · Genres: Alternate Universe:
Gondor or Rohan · ID: 7
Reviewer: phyloxena · 2007-12-14 07:23:35
Ouch. Trust sweet and gentle Nanny with a bedtime story. We never
actually met Finduilas or Adrahil ITB, and Thorongil and Denethor
don't do anything surprising in the circumstances, but wicked, cruel
Imrahil is very AU. I guess if he was blindly used by his father and
sister, the story would still work and be even more disturbing.

Title: The Witch-king's Cloak · Author: Radbooks · Genres: Humor:
Parody · ID: 106
Reviewer: Inkling · 2007-12-14 08:21:44
A wickedly humorous answer to the movie-verse question, where did the
Ringwraiths get new cloaks after Aragorn torched them at Weathertop?
The image of the Witch-king as fashion victim, trying in vain to swirl
his too-short, off-black spare cloak around himself in proper menacing
style is one that gave me quite a chuckle!

Title: The Wink of an Eye · Author: Linda hoyland · Times: Mid Third
Age: 2851 - 3017 TA: Drabble · ID: 664
Reviewer: Inkling · 2007-12-14 08:25:58
So the Dark Lord has a playful side, does he? This seems to be a bonus
entry in the There and Back alphabet challenge, and a fine one it is!
I wonder what else Sauron got up to with that palantir...prank calls
to Saruman, perhaps?

Great fun!

Oh Good! I can never get enough of Elves. I hope to start reading this
story soon.

TariElfLady

In a message dated 12/9/2007 3:04:12 A.M. Eastern Standard Time,
namondil@gmail.com writes:




Hi all,

Just letting you know that "Elf Interrupted: Book One: Glorfindel
Redux" is now COMPLETE. There will be a Book Two, so don't freak out!

Thanks.

Fiondil









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