Yahoo Forum Archive

Marta,

As a 'mere' author and reviewer I'd like to echo your thanks to all the volunteers who have made the 2008 MEFA possible, and add you to the list of people who deserve our warm gratitude.

Thank you all for another great year!!


Nath

--- On Mon, 1/12/08, aure_enteluva <marta.fandom@gmail.com> wrote:

> From: aure_enteluva <marta.fandom@gmail.com>
> Subject: [MEFAwards] 2008 MEFAs - Voting Closed
> To: MEFAwards@yahoogroups.com
> Date: Monday, 1 December, 2008, 5:25 AM
> Hey guys,
>
> As you may have noticed, voting for the 2008 MEFAs ended a
> few hours
> ago. The results were really quite astounding this year.
> Nearly 5,400
> reviews for 660 stories! I am always blown away by so many
> people,
> plugging away for so much of the year, often giving
> comments to
> authors they don't know outside the awards. Makes my
> heart go
> pitter-patter with fannish glee. :-)
>
> I have a few "tying notes," to borrow the name of
> a drabble from this
> year's competition. Topics that probably deserve a word
> or two.
>
> RESULTS
>
> The authors who placed or received an honorable mention
> have been
> informed of their results by private email to the address
> registered
> at our website. You may want to check your spam mail box;
> the emails
> should have come from mefasupportATgmailDOTcom.
>
> Full results will be posted here by mid-week. I'll also
> send out an
> announcement through the promoters to inform people at
> various groups.
>
> REVIEWS
>
> Annmarwalk will continue posting reviews here until
> Wednesday, to
> space out the many reviews submitted near the end of the
> awards. Do
> read them if you're interested, because it's always
> fun to see what
> other people thought of a story.
>
> You can also view all of the available banners at our
> website,
> www.mefawards.net/MEFA2008/. Just log in and click
> "Reviews" at the
> top of the site.
>
> BANNERS
>
> We would like to give winning authors a banner of their
> choice. You
> can find the banner selections at three places.
>
> 1. http://mefawards.net/fanart/categories.php?cat_id=799
> 2. http://s47.photobucket.com/albums/f163/Elena_Tiriel/
> All banners at these two sites are available to you.
> 3. http://mefawards.net/fanart/categories.php?cat_id=801
> This is the banners for nominated authors. The following
> banners can
> be converted into banners for winning authors: 19; 72-86,
> 88-96, 104-111.
>
> Once you find a banner you'd like to use, please email
> mefa.banners@gmail.com with which one you prefer and it
> will be
> customized with the place and category that you won. The
> finished
> product will then be emailed to you.
>
> SUGGESTIONS FOR 2009
>
> Every year at the end of the awards we have held what's
> known as a
> post-mortem, where participants can make suggestions and
> debate
> subbestions made by other people. We're going to handle
> that a tad
> differently this year, since the awards have grown larger
> and also
> because of some non-fannish commitments of mine (and other
> key
> volunteers). We will be accepting your suggestions, though,
> have no fear.
>
> Once we finish up the 2008 awards and get the results
> announced, I'll
> discuss this in more detail. In the mean time, you can
> start thinking
> about if there are any areas of the awards that you think
> could be
> improved.
>
> THANKS
>
> Finally, I want to thank everyone who has participated so
> fully in
> these awards. Authors, thank you for sharing your work with
> us.
> Reviewers, I really appreciate your investment of times.
> Volunteers
> deserve a special gratitude; many deserve quite more than
> that, but
> unfortunately my gratitude is all I have to give.
>
> In particular, thank you to:
>
> --- Tanaqui and Aranel, for managing the technical end of
> our website.
> --- Elliska, for approving and processing new members.
> --- Radbooks and Inkling, for their invaluable advice and
> help on
> special projects as they came up
>
> --- Annmarwalk for posting the reviews at the MEFAwards
> Yahoo group
> and mefas LJ - EVERY DAY;
> --- Elea24 and PipMer, for forwarding on author responses
> to their
> reviewers
>
> --- Fiondil and Beruthiel's Cat, who managed the banner
> team, including
> ------- The banner creators: Baranduin; Cactuskim; Elea24;
> Elena
> Tiriel; Marta; nau_tika; and viv
> ------- The banner customizers: Cactuskim, Elea24, Elena
> Tiriel;
> mistry89; nancylea; Nath; Nieriel Raina; and viv
>
> These are just the people who have volunteered extensively
> since
> categorization. For a full list of all the volunteers,
> please see
> http://mefawards.net/MEFA2008/index.php?page=FAQvolunteers
>
> *Thank you.*
>
> Marta
> (MEFA Admin.)

I'm grateful to all who took part, also--authors, nominators, reviewers,
volunteers--this has been a work of love! Thanks to all.
Bonnie L. Sherrell
Teacher at Large

"Then do not be too eager to deal out death in judgement. For even the very wise cannot see all ends." LOTR

"Don't go where I can't follow."

Hi everyone,

Now that we've caught our collective breaths after MEFA reviewing and
learned the results (that was fast! thank you!), I'd like to announce that I
made some unofficial banners this year that were too late to submit to the
MEFA site.

Actually, I made a LOT of unofficial MEFA banners. ;-)

I checked with Marta, and there was no objection to offering these banners
to you directly, outside the standard MEFA process.

You can find them at <photobucket.com/elenatiriel>, then click on
MEFA_2008_Banners under "Albums" on the left. If you are interested in
specific settings, characters, events, or text ("Nominee", "Commended
Reviewer", "Review Junkie", or "Winner" - which I am willing to customize
for you) you can click on the appropriate "Tag" at the left.

Hint: If you'd like to quickly see one example of each design/size
combination, I recommend clicking on the "Winner" tag, since the "Winner"
versions of the official banners that I did submit to the MEFA site can only
be found there, so it's the only complete set (158 of them!).

You are welcome to download and use any of these banners that you like. If
you would like one of the Winner banners customized for your story, I ask
that you email me directly at this address, rather than going through the
standard MEFA banner address, so that the other MEFA banner customizers are
not bothered. (But, if you do accidentally send it to the MEFA address,
don't worry -- I am also a MEFA banner customizer, so will try to intercept
it there.)

If you would like one of these photobucket banners customized, please send
an email to elenatiriel [at] gmail [dot] com, with the banner title (click
on the banner to get the full title), the size you prefer ("square" [LJ
icon], "rectangle", or "all sizes"), and the MEFA id number and name of the
story you'd like it customized for, so I can be sure to get the correct
place and category names, and your author name if it's not clear from your
email address. For example:


Narsil Reforged, all sizes, story #208, Renewal, by Elena Tiriel
Corsair Ships, square, story #465, Last Stroke
Houses of Healing, rectangle, story #209, Men of the Twilight


I will do my best to send them back as quickly as I can, within two days if
at all possible. If you have a special request, such as customizing a banner
for a prior year, or sending the banners to a different email address, let
me know and I'll do what I can to accommodate it.

Following is a list of the unofficial MEFA banners you can find at my
photobucket site... enjoy!

- Barbara

*Title* * *
*Description* *3 Elven Rings* - Narya, Nenya, and Vilya *3 Rings for Elves
* - Galadriel, Cirdan, and Gil-galad receive the three Elven rings of power
*7 Rings for Dwarves* - Seven Dwarf-lords receive rings of power *9 Rings
for Men* - Nine Kings of Men, later to become the Nazgul, receive rings of
power *Alqualonde* - The Kinslaying at Alqualonde, from artwork by Ted
Nasmith *Andunie* - The harbor of Andunie with Elven ships arriving from
Aman, from artwork by Ted Nasmith *Aragorn & the Dead* - Aragorn summoning
the denizens in the Paths of the Dead *Arwen* - Arwen closeup *Aule*
- Portrait
of Aule, from artwork by Ted Nasmith *Balrog* - The Balrog of Moria *Bilbo
Finds the One Ring* - Bilbo stumbles upon the One Ring under the Misty
Mountains *Book of Mazarbul* - Gandalf reading from the Book of Mazarbul in
Moria *Boromir in Death* - Boromir's body, floating in an Elven-boat on the
Anduin *Captain Faramir* - Faramir defending Osgiliath *Celeborn* - Celeborn
in Lorien *Corsair Ships* - Ships of the Corsairs of Umbar, sailing up the
Anduin *Cuivienen* - Elves on the shores of Cuivienen, from artwork by Ted
Nasmith *Denethor* - Denethor II, Steward of Gondor *Earendil's Ship* - The
ship of Earendil the Mariner, from artwork by Ted Nasmith *Elf of Mirkwood* -
An anonymous Elf from Mirkwood *Elrond at the Last Alliance* - Elrond with
Elven troops at the Last Alliance *Elves Going West* - Elves journeying
towards the Grey Havens, to leave Middle-earth *Eowyn* - Eowyn closeup *Fall
of Gondolin* - Elves escaping from the fall of Gondolin, from artwork by Ted
Nasmith *Faramir* - Faramir at Henneth-Annun *Fell Beast* - The Witch-king
leaving Minas Morgul in style *Fellowship Climbing* - The Fellowship,
climbing in the Misty Mountains *Fellowship Leaving* - The fellowship
departing from Rivendell *Finrod* - Finrod Felagund's first meeting with
the Men of Beor, from artwork by Ted Nasmith *Forge at Rivendell* - Elven
smiths reforging Narsil in Rivendell *Frodo & the One Ring* - Frodo with
the Ring Verse reflected on his face, and the One Ring in the
background *Frodo
at Parth Galen* - Frodo about to leave Parth Galen at the Breaking of the
Fellowship *Galadriel & the Mirror* - Galadriel in Lorien, readying her
Mirror for use *Gil-galad* - Gil-galad and Elrond with Elven troops at the
Last Alliance *Gimli* - Gimli closeup *Gollum & the One Ring* - Gollum
celebrating with the One Ring in the Sammath Naur *Gollum
Underground* - Gollum
under the Misty Mountains *Helcaraxe* - Fingolfin leading his people across
the Helcaraxë, from artwork by Ted Nasmith *Herald of Gil-galad* - Elrond
commanding Elven troops at the Last Alliance *Houses of Healing* - Eowyn
and Faramir in the Houses of Healing *Huan and Carcharoth* - Huan attacking
Carcharoth after the wolf mortally wounded Beren, from artwork by Ted
Nasmith *Hurin and Morgoth* - Hurin being punished by Morgoth in
Thangorodrim, from artwork by Ted Nasmith *Isildur* - Isildur holding the
One Ring in the Sammath Naur *Legolas* - Legolas in Rivendell *Losgar* - The
ships of the Exiles burning at Losgar, from artwork by Ted Nasmith *Luthien
& Beren Disguised* - Luthien and Beren disguised as Thuringwethil and
Carcharoth, from artwork by Ted Nasmith *Maedhros' Rescue* - Maedhros being
rescued by Fingon from Thangorodrim, from artwork by Ted Nasmith *Maglor &
the Silmaril* - Maglor casting the Silmaril into the Sea, from artwork by
Ted Nasmith *Manwe's Eagles* - Manwe's Eagles flying over Numenor, from
artwork by Ted Nasmith *Mumak* - A mumak in the Battle of the
Pelennor *Mumakil
Charge* - Haradrim charging on their mumakil in the Battle of the Pelennor
*Narsil Reforged* - Anduril, after being reforged from Narsil by Elven
smiths *One Ring* - The One Ring on Sauron's finger *Orc of Moria* - An
Orc from Moria *Ranger Faramir* - Faramir in Ithilien *Red Eye* - The eye
of Sauron *Rohir* - A Rohir at the Battle of the Pelennor *Sack of
Nargothrond* - The sack of Nargothrond, with Glaurung, Turin, and Finduilas,
from artwork by Ted Nasmith *Sam* - Sam with Bill the Pony *Saruman*
- Saruman
in Isengard, with Gwaihir approaching *Sauron* - Sauron at the Last
Alliance on the slopes of Mount Doom *Sauron Forging the One Ring* - Sauron
forging the One Ring in the Sammath Naur, from artwork by Ted Nasmith *Scroll
of Isildur* - Gandalf reading the Scroll of Isildur in Minas Tirith *Shelob
& Frodo* - Shelob stalking Frodo in Cirith Ungol *Ships of the Faithful* - The
ships of Elendil and the Faithful leaving Numenor at its downfall, from
artwork by Ted Nasmith *Strider* - Strider looking thoughtful, Rivendell in
the background *Taniquetil* - Taniquetil at the First Rising of the Sun,
from artwork by Ted Nasmith *Tar-Miriel* - Tar-Miriel being overtaken by
the wave at the Downfall of Numenor, from artwork by Ted Nasmith *Teleri
Swanships* - Teleri ships being drawn to Aman by swans, from artwork by Ted
Nasmith *Theoden* - Theoden at the Battle of the Pelennor
*Thorondor* - Thorondor
and his Eagles carrying Beren and Luthien to safety, from artwork by Ted
Nasmith *Troll of Mordor* - A troll at the Battle of the Morannon *Trolls
in Minas Tirith* - Trolls entering the gate of Minas Tirith *Tuor* - Tuor
by the Sea bowing to Ulmo, from artwork by Ted Nasmith *Ulmo* - Ulmo
appearing out of the Sea, from artwork by Ted Nasmith *Witch-king on the
Pelennor* - The Witch-king at the Battle of the Pelennor *Witch-king
Revealed* - The Witch-king as he appears to Frodo on Amon Sul while wearing
the One Ring


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

I echo Nath's and Bonnie's thanks to all the people who made the MEFAs
possible, both volunteers and participants... and add my surprise, pleasure,
and gratitude that the results are already available! That was awesome!

Best regards,
- Barbara

On Sun, Nov 30, 2008 at 11:31 PM, nath kuijpers <nath_kuijpers@yahoo.com>wrote:

> Marta,
>
> As a 'mere' author and reviewer I'd like to echo your thanks to all the
> volunteers who have made the 2008 MEFA possible, and add you to the list of
> people who deserve our warm gratitude.
>
> Thank you all for another great year!!
>
> Nath
>
> --- On Mon, 1/12/08, aure_enteluva <marta.fandom@gmail.com<marta.fandom%40gmail.com>>
> wrote:
>
> > From: aure_enteluva <marta.fandom@gmail.com <marta.fandom%40gmail.com>>
> > Subject: [MEFAwards] 2008 MEFAs - Voting Closed
> > To: MEFAwards@yahoogroups.com <MEFAwards%40yahoogroups.com>
> > Date: Monday, 1 December, 2008, 5:25 AM
>
> > Hey guys,
> >
> > As you may have noticed, voting for the 2008 MEFAs ended a
> > few hours
> > ago. The results were really quite astounding this year.
> > Nearly 5,400
> > reviews for 660 stories! I am always blown away by so many
> > people,
> > plugging away for so much of the year, often giving
> > comments to
> > authors they don't know outside the awards. Makes my
> > heart go
> > pitter-patter with fannish glee. :-)
> >
> > I have a few "tying notes," to borrow the name of
> > a drabble from this
> > year's competition. Topics that probably deserve a word
> > or two.
> >
> > RESULTS
> >
> > The authors who placed or received an honorable mention
> > have been
> > informed of their results by private email to the address
> > registered
> > at our website. You may want to check your spam mail box;
> > the emails
> > should have come from mefasupportATgmailDOTcom.
> >
> > Full results will be posted here by mid-week. I'll also
> > send out an
> > announcement through the promoters to inform people at
> > various groups.
> >
> > REVIEWS
> >
> > Annmarwalk will continue posting reviews here until
> > Wednesday, to
> > space out the many reviews submitted near the end of the
> > awards. Do
> > read them if you're interested, because it's always
> > fun to see what
> > other people thought of a story.
> >
> > You can also view all of the available banners at our
> > website,
> > www.mefawards.net/MEFA2008/. Just log in and click
> > "Reviews" at the
> > top of the site.
> >
> > BANNERS
> >
> > We would like to give winning authors a banner of their
> > choice. You
> > can find the banner selections at three places.
> >
> > 1. http://mefawards.net/fanart/categories.php?cat_id=799
> > 2. http://s47.photobucket.com/albums/f163/Elena_Tiriel/
> > All banners at these two sites are available to you.
> > 3. http://mefawards.net/fanart/categories.php?cat_id=801
> > This is the banners for nominated authors. The following
> > banners can
> > be converted into banners for winning authors: 19; 72-86,
> > 88-96, 104-111.
> >
> > Once you find a banner you'd like to use, please email
> > mefa.banners@gmail.com <mefa.banners%40gmail.com> with which one you
> prefer and it
> > will be
> > customized with the place and category that you won. The
> > finished
> > product will then be emailed to you.
> >
> > SUGGESTIONS FOR 2009
> >
> > Every year at the end of the awards we have held what's
> > known as a
> > post-mortem, where participants can make suggestions and
> > debate
> > subbestions made by other people. We're going to handle
> > that a tad
> > differently this year, since the awards have grown larger
> > and also
> > because of some non-fannish commitments of mine (and other
> > key
> > volunteers). We will be accepting your suggestions, though,
> > have no fear.
> >
> > Once we finish up the 2008 awards and get the results
> > announced, I'll
> > discuss this in more detail. In the mean time, you can
> > start thinking
> > about if there are any areas of the awards that you think
> > could be
> > improved.
> >
> > THANKS
> >
> > Finally, I want to thank everyone who has participated so
> > fully in
> > these awards. Authors, thank you for sharing your work with
> > us.
> > Reviewers, I really appreciate your investment of times.
> > Volunteers
> > deserve a special gratitude; many deserve quite more than
> > that, but
> > unfortunately my gratitude is all I have to give.
> >
> > In particular, thank you to:
> >
> > --- Tanaqui and Aranel, for managing the technical end of
> > our website.
> > --- Elliska, for approving and processing new members.
> > --- Radbooks and Inkling, for their invaluable advice and
> > help on
> > special projects as they came up
> >
> > --- Annmarwalk for posting the reviews at the MEFAwards
> > Yahoo group
> > and mefas LJ - EVERY DAY;
> > --- Elea24 and PipMer, for forwarding on author responses
> > to their
> > reviewers
> >
> > --- Fiondil and Beruthiel's Cat, who managed the banner
> > team, including
> > ------- The banner creators: Baranduin; Cactuskim; Elea24;
> > Elena
> > Tiriel; Marta; nau_tika; and viv
> > ------- The banner customizers: Cactuskim, Elea24, Elena
> > Tiriel;
> > mistry89; nancylea; Nath; Nieriel Raina; and viv
> >
> > These are just the people who have volunteered extensively
> > since
> > categorization. For a full list of all the volunteers,
> > please see
> > http://mefawards.net/MEFA2008/index.php?page=FAQvolunteers
> >
> > *Thank you.*
> >
> > Marta
> > (MEFA Admin.)
>
>
>


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

Title: Murder The Dawn · Author: crowdaughter · Genres: Alternate
Universe: Incomplete · ID: 383
Reviewer: Ignoble Bard · 2008-11-30 18:11:36 Score: 5
As heartrending as is [Mael-Gul] Crowdaughter's other dark AU, this
story is, perhaps, even more emotional. Legolas is the victim of a
spell, one of almost unimaginable cruelty and must fight the evil the
only way left to him. Crowdaughter creates a dark vision that, though
AU, feels authentic and utterly believeable. It's a shame she is
unable to update more often as her stories are always riveting,
keeping us all on pins and needles as we anticipate and wonder how the
events will eventually play out. I look forward to the completion of
her two epic WIP's.

Title: Moon of the Sea · Author: pandemonium_213 · Times: Second and
Early Third Age · ID: 213
Reviewer: Oshun · 2008-11-30 18:13:44 Score: 8
Eeks! I am so running out of time. I unfortunately am totally unable
to give this story the review that it deserves. You will get the
curtailed version simply because it would be conscienable for me to
let it pass without saying anything. I like the setting and
circumstances. It is very atomspheric and has a nearly Arcadian
feeling for me. While her youth in some ways is written as almost
idyllic, there are the undercurrents of the darkness of end-game
Numenor that appropriately chill the reader. I also like the
risk-taking of the writer in relationship to issues of sexuality and
mores. I must admit I get a much better sense of the woman in the
author's current WIP novel where she figures as one of the prominent
characters.

I really like the interaction between her and her future husband and
afer they have gotten together. I would highly recommend the story and
do feel ashamed of myself for not writing a better and more coherent
review here. Forntuately, others have done better, so interested
readers are also encouraged to read the other reviews on this story
posted here.

Title: The Shadow · Author: Linda Hoyland · Genres: Drama: Ring War
Drabbles · ID: 25
Reviewer: Elena Tiriel · 2008-11-30 18:15:41 Score: 2
Spoilers!
Would Frodo have had the strength to throw the Ring into the Cracks of
Doom? Apparently not, so Gollum did him a service, yet his fate was so
different.

A haunting thought!

Title: No Regrets · Author: Linda Hoyland · Times: Fourth Age and
Beyond: Fixed-Length Ficlets · ID: 490
Reviewer: Elena Tiriel · 2008-11-30 18:19:44 Score: 3
Spoilers!
I actually think Faramir got the better end of the deal... he did not
end up being Ruling Steward, but he got power and responsibility --
just not ultimate responsibility for an entire kingdom.

Title: Alqualondë · Author: Moreth · Genres: Drama: General
Fixed-Length Ficlets · ID: 220
Reviewer: Rhapsody · 2008-11-30 18:26:08 Score: 6
Spoilers!
[Alqualondë] is Moreth's début in our fandom and wow! As gruesome as
it might sound, it is a fabulous take on the first kinslaying and it
is hard to tell which character of a race dies and which ones will
live long enough to kill. And in the chaos portrayed, does it matter?
In fact it doesn't, Moreth captures the first experiences of death,
the killing and fighting in a double blow by writing from two
different perspectives. It reads so intimate, as if you are being
invited to catch such a glimpse of reasoning of both. Moreth portray
the grim realities of our lives where people die and people fight for
a cause they deem necessary, but what gives me the chills the most is
in how it is made sound so easy once we set aside our humanity.
Fabulous work Moreth!

Title: By Ship or Grave · Author: Larner · Genres: Poetry: Hobbits ·
ID: 618
Reviewer: Elena Tiriel · 2008-11-30 18:27:59 Score: 1
What a lovely, lyrical poem! So much packed into relatively few words.
Well done!

Title: Nerdanel's Sons · Author: Istarnie · Races: Elves: Incomplete ·
ID: 659
Reviewer: Rhapsody · 2008-11-30 18:38:02 Score: 10
Spoilers!
In a nutshell, this novel is written from Nerdanel's perspective after
many ages has past; she takes her time to record these memories of her
sons. At first she wants to capture their early years, the births and
conception, but oh so slowly Istarnie delves deeper into the conflicts
and lies that caused such a rift between the Noldor. This I find so
cleverly done, especially during the last chapter (for now!) where
Celegorm does what he must: reminding those thugs of what true honour
is about (okay, I am a bit prejudiced when it comes down to that elf).
But as I (re-)read along, I was yet reminded about how close my views
on that family compared to the author, be it a bit differently here
and there. Istarnie's knowledge of Nerdanel is so broad and I love her
author notes just as much as these wonderful chapters where she
balances the internal voice, narrative with archaic dialogue with so
much grace. I find this novel movingly written with all the feelings
and worries that mother's do have and the parting with every son is
just special. I can slowly understand how Nerdanel feels torn asunder
even more after every parting with one of her sons. This is a
brilliantly written novel in a unique voice and style, and I look
forward to the day Istarnie can work on it again.

Title: The Tower Hills · Author: DrummerWench · Genres: Drama: Final
Partings · ID: 608
Reviewer: Gandalfs apprentice · 2008-11-30 18:38:32 Score: 8
This lovely little gapfiller has a unique charm, and rings so true to
Tolkien that it could simply be added to its place in the chapter "The
Grey Havens." But it is not, however, imitative. DrummerWench's voice
carries through in each word: a gentle, flowing rhythm that enchants
like the sea itself.

I especially love the poem at the beginning, so full of the regret and
sea-longing of the Elves of Middle-earth. Too often in fanfic this is
given a whiny tone, but DrummerWench avoids that altogether, and
captures the otherworldly beauty of Tolkien songs like, for example,
the Lay of Nimrodel. It is quite an achievement.

Then we've got Sam. DrummerWench writes Sam better than any, capturing
his "man in the street" quality without turning him into a buffoon.
There is a bittersweet melancholy to the interchanges between him and
Frodo, knowing, as we do, that Frodo is soon to depart.

I always had trouble believing the Tale of the Years in the
appendices, that Sam really did follow Frodo over sea after Rosie's
death. This tale makes it much more real to me.

Title: Messengers from the West · Author: Jay of Lasgalen · Genres:
Drama: Gondor Fixed-Length Ficlets · ID: 98
Reviewer: Elena Tiriel · 2008-11-30 18:42:32 Score: 2
Spoilers!
What a lovely surprise for Thorongil on his birthday!

Well, *I'd* certainly welcome a visit from those two.... ;-)

Well done!

Title: A Large Bold Hand · Author: Jay of Lasgalen · Races:
Cross-Cultural: Fixed-Length Ficlets · ID: 10
Reviewer: Elena Tiriel · 2008-11-30 18:43:17 Score: 1
Spoilers!
I like this speculation about how Ori learned to write in Elvish....

Title: Miquan Melave · Author: Marta · Genres: Romance · ID: 319
Reviewer: Gandalfs apprentice · 2008-11-30 18:45:58 Score: 3
This story, with its combination of realistic, well-told love between
two men, and enchanting fairy tale of Mithrellas, is a triumph. The
added memories of Finduilas deepen the impact of Boromir's thoughts
altogether.

Title: Discretion · Author: Dawn Felagund · Times: First Age and
Prior: House of Finwe · ID: 254
Reviewer: Rhapsody · 2008-11-30 18:46:27 Score: 10
Spoilers!
Oh [Discretion] makes me want to read Dawn's AMC again, but for now
this short work has to suffice. That Caranthir disliked Finarfin's
children a lot is well-known, but this short work explores one of the
reasons how this might have only fuelled that hatred. Unwillingly
Caranthir is the witness of a short rendezvous between Maedhros and
Finrod, and I just feel for him as he sits there, really not wanting
to be there at that moment. Caranthir has a great self-knowledge and
even though Maedhros confides to him in what he does diplomatically,
you can also see the anguish of both brothers wanting to be loved by
the other and yet they just don't seem to reach out. When the word
discretion is uttered both speak about different things, and Maedhros
plays it thusly that Caranthir will not speak of it. Yet what remains
and what makes Caranthir loathe Finrod so much is the seemingly
emptiness behind their actions and motivations, this dark elf is more
an elf of action, direct in his approach. But oh for the love of his
father and house he keeps his silence with great effort, even towards
his uncle who probably now has his own views of what is going on. What
a tangled mess and a great character sketch of Caranthir in this
gapfiller. Well done Dawn!

Title: For What I Wait · Author: Dawn Felagund · Genres: Alternate
Universe: Angst/Tragedy · ID: 125
Reviewer: Elleth · 2008-11-30 18:52:54 Score: 7
Spoilers!
Even after reading [For What I Wait] numerous times, I am still
uncertain about this story. Beyond the plot and symbolism that are
decipered easily enough, and fit as snugly in all of Dawn's stories -
not just as baubles but as vital contributions to a whole - there is a
lingering sense of -- something behind the words.
This is, to be certain, very emotive writing with a bitter edge as
Feanor considers his quest, his children, his life, and in this AU
scenario experiences the death of his last remaining son. Dawn
Felagund without a doubt is one of the finest Silmfic authors, and
this is no exception to her great work. That 'something behind the
words' seems deliberately mysterious, as does the placement of the
story in time: Deliberately hinted at, but never fully explained. It
does much for the atmosphere here, and coupled with the chilling cold,
not only regarding the surroundings described in the story but also
with plot-events, this becomes an outstanding piece of work and is a
very deserved nomination indeed.

Title: Here's To The King! · Author: Jael · Genres: Humor: Elven Lands
· ID: 204
Reviewer: Elena Tiriel · 2008-11-30 18:55:56 Score: 2
*Snerk*

I'd review this, but I've been up all night, and can't stop laughing
myself silly......

Title: Wind and Fire · Author: elfscribe · Times: First Age and Prior
· ID: 539
Reviewer: Ignoble Bard · 2008-11-30 19:04:34 Score: 6
I thoroughly enjoyed this depiction of Manwe and Feanor, a pairing I
never would have thought could work, but which Elfscribe has brought
off so perfectly here. I like her description of Feanor [A restless
brilliance married to great passion] and she does an excellent job of
showing us both. One imagines such restlessness would be also a part
of the make up of a Lord of Winds and, indeed, it seems that Manwe,
once awakened to the possibilities, finds in Feanor a match of his own
restlessness and passions. Feanor's creation of the Silmarils in
response to his desire for Manwe and thereby his desire to create
jewels of great beauty as a tribute to the Vala he so idolized is
deftly done. As is their conversation about the how and why of
Silmaril's creation. In a story so rich in detail and character, the
beautifully written erotica is the icing on the cake.

Title: Elflings · Author: Jael · Races: Elves: Family · ID: 348
Reviewer: Elena Tiriel · 2008-11-30 19:04:55 Score: 1
*rolling on the floor, laughing out loud*

Title: Homecoming · Author: Isabeau of Greenlea · Genres: Alternate
Universe: Other Fixed-Length Ficlets · ID: 706
Reviewer: Elena Tiriel · 2008-11-30 19:14:31 Score: 4
Spoilers!
Reading this vignette always leaves tears in my eyes. Happy tears! The
way you write it, I can feel at the gut level just how shocked, and
then relieved, Boromir is to realize that he can pursue his
relationshiop with Andrahar now.

And how wonderful for Andrahar! Have I mentioned once or twice just
how much I love your Andrahar?

Beautiful AU to your universe.... Well done!

Title: The Edge of the Knife · Author: Dwimordene · Genres: Alternate
Universe: Other Fixed-Length Ficlets · ID: 274
Reviewer: Elleth · 2008-11-30 19:14:56 Score: 6
Spoilers!
There are few stories about Numenor, and fewer who show such intricate
twists on the source material. These eight drabbles about Isildur's
different fates do much to define the narrow path that eventually
brought him to his end in the Gladden Fields while at the same time
show what might have been if he had strayed, just a little, in either
direction. The threads of mortality and Sauron's power run through
this like leitmotifs, and even though each has a different end they
all seem entirely plausible.
Personally, I very much enjoyed [Hin Húrin], not merely for the
Silmarillion references, but also for the ingenious idea that one of
the great stories of the First Age may repeat, if in lessened and
modified form, like the other one (of Beren and Luthien) was repeated
in Arwen and Aragorn.

Title: Journeys of Vása · Author: Dawn Felagund · Races: Elves:
Incomplete · ID: 140
Reviewer: Rhapsody · 2008-11-30 19:16:35 Score: 10
Spoilers!
This is an elegant set of vignettes of which I find it very hard to
choose my favourite. I love that it's written from so many different
perspectives and handles such different themes with the sun being
central. I love Tilion's vignette: his pain and self-loathing is so
well pictured even though Arien herself sought this out, his guilt is
so immensely palpable. I so feel for him as he sits there all
powerless. I have grown quite fond of Dawn's stories featuring this
Maiar. But then there is also Mahtan, one of the most underappreciated
characters in the Silm imho, who reflects and gives us insight in the
vessel which will carry Arien once she will become the Sun. I find
that vignette most enchanting because it gives you such a marvellous
visual as all the Aulendili work on this. Just the thought that those
who stayed behind would craft such a fine thing is most definitely
heartening, especially since the rebellion tore apart so many houses,
Mahtan surely understands that pain all to well. Then there is
Fingolfin who quite economically relates the crossing of that grinding
ice leaving the young scribe in awe regarding the practically it as
been approached and is told to him. But can you really blame
Fingolfin, even though he is not the High King yet, you can just see
he is born to lead (sorry Fëanor). I personally would recommend this
story since it feels like a journey through [the Silmarillion] where
Dawn shows us sides of the story or aspect one would not think about
that soon with Vása being a constant. Wonderfully done Dawn, I hope
you will continue with it soon!

Title: Consolation · Author: Isabeau of Greenlea · Races: Men:
Steward's Family · ID: 341
Reviewer: Elena Tiriel · 2008-11-30 19:21:18 Score: 4
Spoilers!
I love how Boromir takes care of his injured brother in the only way
he knows how: sending for the Ithilien Rangers to keep him company.
Because, of course, Faramir being Faramir, he would otherwise just
brood at all the men he lost... and refuse to take poppy to reduce the
pain of his injury, so it would be available for the other injured men.

A nice way to solve the problem of why those particular Rangers were
with Faramir on the Pelennor. And a nice glimpse of Boromir, too.

Well done!

Title: Trinity · Author: pandemonium_213 · Times: Modern Times · ID: 51
Reviewer: crowdaughter · 2008-11-30 19:25:32 Score: 3
Spoilers!
This is a haunting piece - Oppenheimer meeting Feanor and Sauron to
reflect about the impact of their creations. An very interesting idea,
and a very unique view at the inventions of both, and what they
brought about. And embedded in all of it the question what, if
anything, science owes to morale. A very intriguing piece. Thank you
for writing and sharing!

Title: Moon of the Sea · Author: pandemonium_213 · Times: Second and
Early Third Age · ID: 213
Reviewer: Rhapsody · 2008-11-30 19:28:02 Score: 10
I really have no idea where to start to describe this wonderful
collection of drabbles/ficlets, aye even vignettes regarding Elendil's
wife. Sure, she might have the feel of an original character, but she
did exist. Pandemonium created such a rich background of her: ranging
from a young girl raised by a holy tradition, but perhaps even more
secret (and yet not) than those of the Faithful. More ancient at the
very least and to me it fits quite snugly in the professor's
mythology. Ah yes, maybe I am a heretic at heart. That is just not
only it; the writer does such a fabulous job at portraying their
intimate relationship and deep love! Sensual, warming and oh so
believable, tangible as you read it and it feels so close to the
cycles of nature which this character just emanates. He completes her,
making her whole in a way. The writer touches upon canon especially
that of Erendis is so well done in this series. Canon characters come
and go, some are being born into the story, and others star just so
shortly, but leave a huge impression on her and the reader.

And that is honestly what it does to you as a reader, Pandemonium's
language is rich, detailed and subtle as she plays in Tolkien's
sandbox while she weaves such a stunning portrait of Elendil's wife
whom I've grown to love so much.


Title: Broken Star · Author: pandemonium_213 · Races: Villains:
Fixed-Length Ficlets · ID: 54
Reviewer: crowdaughter · 2008-11-30 19:31:19 Score: 3
Spoilers!
Chilling! A terrifying gapfiller, with a intense glimpse at
Celebrimbor's last moments. And from a very unique perspective as
well. I like the warring feelings in the narrator. Very well done!

Title: Parth Galen · Author: Isabeau of Greenlea · Genres: Alternate
Universe: Steward's Family · ID: 705
Reviewer: Elena Tiriel · 2008-11-30 19:31:22 Score: 4
Spoilers!
This is the kind of hopeful Alternate Universe that I enjoy reading
once in a while. What I like best about this one is how Boromir
remembers things that Imrahil and Andrahar said in other stories, and
takes them to heart at the critical moment. It is telling that the one
thing that he absolutely refuses to do, is anything that would make
Andrahar ashamed of him. That is the kind of love that makes you better.

Well done!

Title: Dragons In The Trollshaws · Author: Bodkin · Genres: Adventure
· ID: 170
Reviewer: Keiliss · 2008-11-30 19:32:44 Score: 10
Spoilers!
Right, where to start? This was an immensely satisfying story on
several levels. I loved the interaction between the twins, so many
little throw away comments that were exactly right for siblings, and
their personal honestly with one another. Really loved the thought of
them hearing the story of the little dragon who grew up to be (no
doubt) the Best Friend of some young elf – put me in mind of telling
bedtime stories to my own young ones back when they were very young.

The difficulties of coming to term with their mother's departure and
how being at home made things harder was handled really well and
resonated for me. When Elrohir declared enough was enough I felt like
cheering. Pain, sorrow, guilt at what happened to their mother was
expected and acceptable, but this never gets maudlin, these two are
intelligent, well-raised and really feel like the sons of Elrond,
grandsons of the lord and lady of the Golden Wood, not the brattish
misfits too many writers resort to portraying. Then of course there
was the friendship between Elrond and Glorfindel, which is something I
always love reading about. And on top of it all, there were dragons!!

The dragon fight was one of the best things I've read in a while,
really well done, and the whole atmosphere was compelling and alive –
I felt like I could see and hear them. Felt the quiet into which the
smaller dragon crept after the fight was over, shared the twins'
revulsion as it started to feed…. Loved the hunt, was fascinated by
the idea of using `dragon spare parts' to forge appropriate weapons,
that was a really brilliant touch. The entire action thread of the
story in fact had me enthralled and really believing right from the
start. And [`I think that should do,' he said with satisfaction.] fits
perfectly into my personal picture of Glorfindel. Loved Elrond telling
him off, and giggled to discover what had happened to his hair. I also
really enjoyed his relationship with the twins.

Really great story!

Title: Battle upon the Quays · Author: Imhiriel · Races: Men: General
Drabbles · ID: 376
Reviewer: Elena Tiriel · 2008-11-30 19:35:24 Score: 2
Spoilers!
Oh, how shocked the captain must have been to be beaten in his own
home territory!

Well done!

Title: O Kheled-zâram fair and wonderful! · Author: Imhiriel · Races:
Dwarves: Drabbles · ID: 354
Reviewer: Elena Tiriel · 2008-11-30 19:36:59 Score: 1
How romantic!

Title: Eagle of the Star · Author: alex_quine · Genres: Drama:
Featuring Aragorn · ID: 152
Reviewer: foxrafer (csevans8) · 2008-11-30 19:37:05 Score: 7
Spoilers!
This is such an incredibly beautiful piece. The tone and language are
perfect. The opening scene gives a great introduction to Thorongil and
Aragorn's role during this time in his life. I particularly love and
appreciate this depiction of Denethor. It is a welcome change to the
many characterizations where he is practically demonized. This
Denethor not only is a sympathetic and likable character, he is also
portrayed with great depth and care.

I really enjoy how after reading this it puts Denethor and Aragorn's
future relationship into a very interesting light, if we assume that
Denethor knows they are the same person. I'm not sure whether I think
Ecthelion knows who Thorongil is or not, but I kind of like that at
least for me it's a bit ambiguous. At the end I decided he doesn't,
but there's something in how he watches them leave that makes we wonder.

A very powerful and thought-provoking story.

Title: Farewell · Author: agape4gondor · Genres: Drama: Final Partings
· ID: 127
Reviewer: Linaewen · 2008-11-30 19:38:12 Score: 10
I truly cannot describe how deeply this story touches me. I am amazed
at the insight the author Agape4gondor brings to the relationship
between the brothers Boromir and Faramir. Many tales have been written
about the parting between them, as Boromir sets out upon the quest
that was the end result of the dream Faramir and he shared. But this
particular tale of that parting ranks among the best of them! It is
poignant as a farewell between brothers should be, but it is also
stirring to the heart as Boromir speaks strongly of his intentions and
his purpose. I am very much impressed with Boromir here, for he is set
in his heart and his mind for the journey, and yet he can also still
look ahead to what his brother will be facing with Boromir gone. Even
as Boromir gives his brother counsel on how to face that which lies
ahead, he also prevents him from speaking those words that will lessen
his resolve in going, and also undermine Faramir's own confidence in
himself.

I love so much their last night together, and Boromir's tender parting
from Faramir. It is sad in a way, because one feels that Boromir
already has a sense of what is to come, and yet it is ultimately
loving and comforting – everything a farewell should be among kin who
know not when they will see one another again.

I weep every time I read this tale, because it is that beautiful!

Title: Forsaken · Author: Imhiriel · Races: Elves: Drabbles · ID: 369
Reviewer: Elena Tiriel · 2008-11-30 19:39:37 Score: 1
How heart-breaking!

Title: Maglor's Harp · Author: Ford of Bruinen · Genres: Horror · ID: 660
Reviewer: Rhapsody · 2008-11-30 19:40:01 Score: 10
Spoilers!
The horror genre is quite a complex one, and a writer does not only
have to resort to events or objects beyond the character's control to
create such an effect. Uli writes a Maglor that in his own reasoning
commits a horrible crime in our eyes, but to him it seems like the
most normal thing to do at that moment. The musician needs an
instrument so for that he just pushes the boundaries as to how far he
can go a bit further every time taking the reader with him. The author
captures the madness and deepest horror of the human mind so immensely
well, a part of this genre I don't see often explored in this fandom.
Personally I like the build up in this story, the tension is so
palpable here that you in a way want to avert your eyes and yet you
simply cannot. The suspension and subtlety is so well done with not
too many details, the suggestion merely is enough to make your skin
crawl. To me it is so well written that over the years his mind also
forgot other things, not only the songs he once sang, the instruments
he played, but also his morality, respect and his own human limits.
One can only imagine how his public will react to his performance,
especially since they might be overwrought (or not) of the girl
missing and there he just sits to entertain. Masterfully written Uli!

Title: Moved to Pity · Author: Imhiriel · Genres: Drama: General
Drabbles · ID: 366
Reviewer: Elleth · 2008-11-30 19:43:12 Score: 4
Spoilers!
Simple but beautiful, this drabble deals with the aftermath of
Luthien's choice and aptly depicts what Tolkien had in mind when he
said that the Fate of Men would in time become a cause for envy even
among the Firstborn and the Valar. Whether or not they understand it,
they cannot help being affected by it (especially in the
far-from-ordinary case of Luthien), even though in the end all serves
the will of the One. That and much more is wonderfully conveyed in
these hundred words.

Title: Silenced · Author: Illwynd · Genres: Horror · ID: 31
Reviewer: Elena Tiriel · 2008-11-30 19:47:35 Score: 1
Spoilers!
Oh, my! This is indeed creepy!

Well done!

Title: Flame of Life · Author: Imhiriel · Times: Multi-Age:
Fixed-Length Ficlets · ID: 114
Reviewer: Elleth · 2008-11-30 19:47:46 Score: 3
Poetic, touching and insightful, this double-drable records the
thoughts of the Flame Imperishable. It is a real asset to
Tolkien-fanfiction as a whole; while still completely immersed in
Tolkien's world, this is almost meta-fanfiction in a way, touching as
it does on all creation.

Title: The Sky Is Over · Author: Robinka · Races: Elves: Drabbles · ID: 83
Reviewer: Elleth · 2008-11-30 19:59:05 Score: 4
Spoilers!
Sad, poignant and brimming with symbolism from the first to last line,
this drabble sheds light on one of the sorrows of the Noldor in Exile:
Those left behind, and what consequences may arise from it. Finrod is
a good exemplary choice knowing that he had no wife and considered
himself free to participate in Beren's quest for the Silmaril, but
that does not make their prior separation any less painful, as is
easily shown here. Magnificent writing and a strong voice make me want
to read more by this author.

Title: Aftermaths and Consequences · Author: Gwynnyd · Times: Fourth
Age and Beyond · ID: 268
Reviewer: Elena Tiriel · 2008-11-30 20:01:50 Score: 2
Spoilers!
Not very romantic, but at least practical.... and much better than
starving.

Nicely done!

Title: Night Terrors · Author: Gwynnyd · Genres: Drama: Gondor
Fixed-Length Ficlets · ID: 433
Reviewer: Elena Tiriel · 2008-11-30 20:07:13 Score: 2
Spoilers!
It's so hard to stop being responsible for the whole world, especially
when you see how vulnerable is your first child.

Faramir at his fatherly best.

Well done!

Title: Kementari · Author: Marta · Times: First Age and Prior · ID: 99
Reviewer: Dwimordene · 2008-11-30 20:08:55 Score: 5
Spoilers!
Kementari's perspective is not often used. Marta takes it up to good
effect here, revealing the bitterness of loss that plays naturally
into resentment over the way in which Yavanna' creations seemed doomed
to be forgotten or taken for granted. The Aftercomers will more easily
overlook her as well, than they will overlook other Valar.

If your greatest creations must be destroyed, one would wish at least
that everyone would remember them, or take all the more care of your
lesser creations, but that is not how the world goes.

Well done, Marta!

Title: Letters From Faramir · Author: agape4gondor · Genres: Drama:
Featuring Boromir or Faramir · ID: 425
Reviewer: Linaewen · 2008-11-30 20:14:18 Score: 10
Spoilers!
These letters from Faramir, written to his brother, Boromir, while he
is away on his journey, are simply precious! What an extraordinary
look into Faramir's heart they give us. The letters also provide the
reader with much insight into what is going on in Gondor and
especially in Minas Tirith, as well, as war prepares, and as the
people wait for Boromir's return – hopefully with an army at his back!

I love how the series of missives begins with a letter from Boromir.
The reader learns much about Boromir's heart, as well, and even senses
some of his misgivings as to what is to come. This letter sets off a
series of replies from his loving brother, Faramir – replies that may
never reach Boromir, but still they are important and vital for
Faramir to write.

I always feel that being able to express his love and concern and his
sorrow at Boromir's absence in this way must have been very helpful to
Faramir, even therapeutic. Even though his brother Boromir is not
present with him, he is still able to tell him the things that are on
his heart and on his mind. Perhaps Faramir is able to express himself
even more clearly than he might have been able to if Boromir had
actually still been present with him! There is just something about
writing a letter to a dear loved one that allows one to open the heart
to him and to pour out one's soul in an uninhibited manner.

I really appreciate the way these letters follow the chronology of the
tale, so that we know what is happening in Gondor, as well as within
Faramir's heart and mind. This gives a sense of reality and urgency to
the series of letters.

I have always loved this tale, and for me, these letters from Faramir
are an indispensable part of my routine of reading Tolkien's history!

Title: Too Many Rangers · Author: Larner · Races: Hobbits · ID: 116
Reviewer: Elleth · 2008-11-30 20:14:57 Score: 4
Hilarious and clever conclusions drawn from the many stages it took
Tolkien to bring his magnum opus to its final form. The confusing
encounters in Bree had me laugh out loud more than once (to the point
that Laurelin the cat became so thoroughly annoyed she left the room),
and whatever that says about my laughter, it also says a lot about the
quality of this great piece of writing.

Title: In Passing · Author: Altariel · Races: Men · ID: 104
Reviewer: dkpalaska · 2008-11-30 20:15:42 Score: 10
Spoilers!
I think one reason (among many, many others) that I enjoy Altariel's
Faramir stories so much is that the author's writing is as subtle and
understated, and yet as deep, as the Steward and Prince himself. They
compliment each other perfectly, and this is a sublime example.

It is a rare thing we're shown, adult Faramir losing – Beren is as
surprised as the rest of us! (["The Queen," he explained, "has the
advantage of experience."] *snort!*) How he draws Beren into enjoying
his company highlights that his keen observational and interpersonal
skills have not suffered from the passage of time any more than his
dry humor has.

The many historical allusions that accompany the naming of the pieces
are wonderful, just wonderful. Even here, Faramir tucks in quiet
lessons that may resonate later – and do, as we see from Beren's
drawing. Such a beautiful reference to Faramir's White Lady, whom he
will see soon; not too bad a trade, for not living to see the Tower of
the Moon restored. (And that image – through Beren's drawing – was
indeed glorious.)

The interactions between Faramir and his great-grandson are a treasure
for the reader as much as for Faramir, and I love the thought that the
next owner of the chess set has been chosen. Quiet, thoughtful, sad
and hopeful all at once, this is a lovely addition to any
Faramir-lover's fanfic favorites.

Title: Reparation · Author: Isabeau of Greenlea · Races: Men · ID: 296
Reviewer: dkpalaska · 2008-11-30 20:16:23 Score: 10
It is always a pleasure to sink back into Isabeau's small corner of
Tolkien fanfic, and that is doubly true when her incredibly real and
finely-crafted OCs are front and center in the story. I admit,
["Reparation"] smoothed out some definite rough spots for me from
["Dol Amroth Yule"], where Andrahar often seemed out of sync with what
I had come to expect from him; there were several dramatic failings
from a character I frankly admire for his unbending sense of honor.

As always, part of the joy in reading this is simply due to gaining
another outside view of Hethlin. (And what a view it is! Hah!) But the
rather disparaging recounting of the new esquire's personal traits is
followed quickly by a reminder that Andrahar has not lost his sense of
duty: that he places such a high bar on his expectations for himself
as Hethlin's trainer is heartbreaking, given the caprices of
battle-luck that he has no control over.

Brand's involvement in Andrahar's realization of what he needed to do
to right those wrongs is just... inspired. The interaction between
these two as Andra reaches his internal moment of truth is uplifting
and feels completely, totally right, particularly given Boromir's
relationship to both of them. As always, the connections to other
stories are subtly and seamlessly part of the narrative, adding a
delicious richness to the whole.

Title: Portrait of a Queen · Author: Aruthir · Races: Men · ID: 338
Reviewer: dkpalaska · 2008-11-30 20:17:45 Score: 8
The story of Aldarion and Erendis has enough bad blood and angst from
both sides to make a prize-winning soap opera. The product of this
unhappy marriage is Ancalime, who goes on from the poor example of her
parents to garner a very unhappy marriage for herself. And three
generations later, her great-granddaughter begins "seeing" her...

This is a fascinating and well-conceived look into the first two
Ruling Queens. The writing is engaging and brief; the story is amply
told by what we are given, but the layered hints that Aruthir slips in
had me scrambling for my copy of UT in order to fully appreciate them.
I thought the author was exceedingly inspired to see the potential
connections between these two individuals, but the similarities in
thoughts and attitudes are striking and believable.

Having it told in short snippets highlights the important aspects and
delivers an immense emotional punch, as well as leaving plenty of
questions about the intersections of fate and free will. Was this a
meeting of kindred spirits? What would Telperien have become without
the visits? Excellent!

Title: Old Man Willow · Author: Nath · Races: Other Beings · ID: 314
Reviewer: Linaewen · 2008-11-30 20:20:58 Score: 4
This is one of the most chilling tales I have ever read! Once read,
one cannot stop thinking about the possibilities! Even so, I must
admit I have read this story more than once, because I think it is
simply excellent.

The frightening thing about this story is that it is so very
plausible! The possibility that is suggested at the end is definitely
a logical conclusion, but it is so very chilling to contemplate. After
reading this story, I can never view Old Man Willow in the same way again!

Title: Flickers · Author: Meril · Times: Multi-Age: Fixed-Length
Ficlets · ID: 390
Reviewer: Dwimordene · 2008-11-30 20:27:25 Score: 5
Spoilers!
Meril writes with precision and poetry, as always. These drabbles and
half drabbles manage to reflect, in bits and pieces like an
appropriately broken mirror, the history of Feänor and Nerdanel, and
members of their family. [Gathering I] and [Gathering II] were of
interest to me insofar as they are parallel in length and form - the
shortest lines delineate the moment of their greatest distance from
each other, and as the drabbles in between spin out in lengthier
chunks, it's as if they're trying to bridge that gap and fill it.

I especially loved the way [Distinction] and [Strength to Save]
followed on each other and finish in [Reality], suggesting both a
certain triumph of fellowship, and also the irreducible ambiguity of
Feänor and Nerdanel.

Title: The Waker · Author: Nancy Brooke · Races: Villains:
Fixed-Length Ficlets · ID: 287
Reviewer: Alassante · 2008-11-30 20:27:31 Score: 4
There is a reason why Nancy is known as the drabble queen on Open
Scrolls. She can pack more story and imagery into so few words than
most people can in a full chapter. This story was no different. I
loved the way she gave a voice to a creature who had no language.
Nancy also managed to give it characterization as well. Very original;
I would not have even thought twice about this character. This is a
simply delightful drabble.

Title: Renewal · Author: Elena Tiriel · Times: Late Third Age: General
Fixed-Length Ficlets · ID: 208
Reviewer: Linda Hoyland · 2008-11-30 20:27:34 Score: 2
Spoilers!
I loved this account of the renewing of Narsil and turning the sword
into Anduril. Phoenix like,the great sword arises again from flame and
ash.

Title: The Wrong Path · Author: Erviniae · Genres: Drama: Incomplete ·
ID: 538
Reviewer: Keiliss · 2008-11-30 20:29:12 Score: 4
Spoilers!
I have dipped into this story on livejournal, although I don't think
I've left much feedback - my bad, yes. I thought it was
well-conceived, and the intolerance of Turgon's Gondolin definitely
resonates for me. I suspect this story isn't typical MEFA fare, but
that's a shame because I've found it a plot-solid and at times thought
provoking read with characters whose fates and happiness I grew to
care very much about..

Title: Unwilling · Author: Elena Tiriel · Races: Elves: Drabbles · ID: 64
Reviewer: Linda Hoyland · 2008-11-30 20:31:00 Score: 2
Spoilers!
I loved this poignant account of the fading of the Elves from
M-E,especially the tear drop on the ancient tree.

Title: Tree of Knowledge · Author: Nancy Brooke · Times: Late Third
Age: Gondor Drabbles · ID: 172
Reviewer: Dwimordene · 2008-11-30 20:31:54 Score: 5
Spoilers!
Nancy bills this as [critically bookverse], which is an interesting
description. It's a lovely drabble, brilliantly worded to draw out the
danger into which Boromir rides, and which Denethor foresees. Why not
tell his son?

I get the sense that the drabble draws out Denethor's pride: this
almost sounds like a test that Denethor has been quietly training his
sons to withstand, terrified that the day might come when they'll fail it.

Precisely what failure would mean is not entirely clear: if Boromir
falls... to death? To love? To corruption? Any or all are possible.

Denethor gets a drabble as ambivalent and ambiguous as he deserves, in
my opinion. Well done!

Title: The Waker · Author: Nancy Brooke · Races: Villains:
Fixed-Length Ficlets · ID: 287
Reviewer: Dwimordene · 2008-11-30 20:34:46 Score: 4
Spoilers!
Fantastic evocation of a world without words - a non-world, in a way.
The taking back of words that goes on in the drabble works well to
accomplish the impossible description of a purely wordless 'subject',
without name or names. And what a terrific ending - the lure of desire
that becomes a wanting for a name, so that what awakens can be called
by name, can be a 'who' - can be loved, in a sense.

Great job, Nancy!

Title: Dawn Twilight · Author: viv · Times: Modern Times · ID: 182
Reviewer: Alassante · 2008-11-30 20:37:18 Score: 10
Spoilers!
I am not normally a modern day fiction loving person and in fact
probably would not have even started reading this except for the
writer being Viv. Knowing how much I like her writing style, I gave
this one a chance a few years ago and once I read it I was hooked. Viv
has included aspects of both Lord of the Rings and the Silmarillion in
this story. She continued to surprise me with the way she snuck canon
in, with such ease. I can honestly say this is one of the stories I
would recommend most and I was so sad when it came to an end!

Her characterizations of well known characters were quite different,
showing that over time the characters have grown and changed over the
ages. Legolas seems less innocent and trusting, you could sense he was
tired of living on Earth and wished to sail. Her original character,
Moira, was three dimensional and likable without the touch of being
Mary Sue. Like alot of Viv's writing, she had witty dialog throughout
the story. I loved the dwarves and cried when one died. I almost fell
out in the floor in the last two chapters when Viv started wrapping
things up because it was totally unexpected who these guys were! I
spent the whole story trying to guess who Greg was and didn't come
close. And then the final chapter blew me away.

Title: One Summer Day · Author: annmarwalk · Genres: Humor: Gondor ·
ID: 535
Reviewer: Keiliss · 2008-11-30 20:39:45 Score: 3
Lovely summery feeling to all four of these ficlets, and I loved
Boromir's musings on the creation of the garden in which he was now
working, and the air of disbelief this evidence of careful thought
provoked. Specially loved the atmosphere of the last one, though it
left me a little sad.

Title: No Regrets · Author: Linda Hoyland · Times: Fourth Age and
Beyond: Fixed-Length Ficlets · ID: 490
Reviewer: Alassante · 2008-11-30 20:40:39 Score: 3
Linda's style of writing impresses me. She portrays Faramir and
Aragorn in very classic style in this piece and I really like the
thought of Faramir being happy with Eowyn and having no regrets. It
goes to show that he was nothing like his father.

Title: This crown of stars · Author: Fawsley · Races: Men: General
Drabbles · ID: 586
Reviewer: Elena Tiriel · 2008-11-30 20:41:53 Score: 3
Spoilers!
Ah, Aragorn's thoughts on this cold, lonely, starry night (one of many
he's spent in the wild) probably can't help but be a bit melancholy.
Nice repetition of the powerful line about the corona of stars.

Well done!

Title: Some Seasons · Author: sophinisba solis · Races: Hobbits:
Post-Ring War · ID: 199
Reviewer: Dwimordene · 2008-11-30 20:42:08 Score: 3
Sweet, poignant and humane. Sophinisba solis finds a unique way of
bringing loss of appetite in as a bond between two characters. It's a
homey ficlet, but which brings a part of the wide and dangerous world
of the Quest back into Bag End's kitchen, in a way that respects both
places and spaces.

Very well done!

Title: Home is where the heart is · Author: Linda Hoyland · Genres:
Romance: Drabbles · ID: 505
Reviewer: Alassante · 2008-11-30 20:44:06 Score: 3
I love to read about Arwen and Aragorn when they finally are able to
be together. The imagery in the beginning of this drabble was
wonderful. I could almost see the dancers and flowers. Linda took a
simple moment and wrote about it beautifully.

Title: Heavens' Embroidered Cloths · Author: Tanaqui · Genres: Drama:
Gondor Fixed-Length Ficlets · ID: 292
Reviewer: Linda Hoyland · 2008-11-30 20:47:02 Score: 3
Spoilers!
A delightful series of drabbles in which Eowyn shows herself more
thoughtful than many writers imagine her in reviving old Mettare
traditions that Faramir's mother kept. i also enjoyed the stories
behind the constellations.We need some of our own as well as the Greek
ones we grow up with.A lovely seasonal read.

Title: House of Ransom · Author: Robinka · Races: Elves: Drabbles ·
ID: 657
Reviewer: Linda Hoyland · 2008-11-30 20:49:45 Score: 2
Spoilers!
A moving drabble in which Beleg sets out to rescue his friend.The
story of Beleg and Turin is both heart-rending and uplifting.We could
all do with a friend like Beleg!

Title: Healing · Author: Bodkin · Races: Elves · ID: 419
Reviewer: agape4gondor · 2008-11-30 20:51:35 Score: 4
Spoilers!
This is a gloriously sad look at the reunion between Galadriel and
Celeborn. I had not thought too much of the time that Celeborn spent
without his spouse in Arda - not till I started writing a little thing
myself - but this is truly well-written and well thought out.

Not only do we see Celeborn - but we see Thranduil, Glorfindel and the
Twins.... nothing more spectacular than these Elves - and nothing
sadder than the leave-taking of these glorious creatures.

Well written.

Title: Care to Ride My Hot-Rod Fell Beast? · Author: viv · Genres:
Humor: Other Fixed-Length Ficlets · ID: 180
Reviewer: Raksha the Demon · 2008-11-30 20:59:13 Score: 3
Spoilers!
Caution - do not read this while eating or drinking - hilarity could
cause choking or keyboard damage!

Seriously, the Witch-King as a hard-boiled macho guy looking for some
action from tough babes? Well, it works here.

Highly recommended as a quick humor fix to just about anything.

Title: Lingering Shadow · Author: Shireling · Genres: Drama: Featuring
Boromir or Faramir · ID: 412
Reviewer: Linda Hoyland · 2008-11-30 20:59:31 Score: 3
Spoilers!
This was a very exciting story.I liked Faramir's compassion and
Aragorn's wisdom.I felt very sorry for Anborn left a broken man after
the war,though I could not condone his revenge and am glad he died
peacefully. I loved the way Faramir's friends all supported him

Title: Merry on the Pelennor Fields · Author: Primsong · Genres:
Poetry: Drama · ID: 720
Reviewer: agape4gondor · 2008-11-30 20:59:51 Score: 4
Spoilers!
I think this is one of the author's best ever. Merry definitely
suffered on the Pelennor - and not just from the touch of the Nazgul....

That he should have to look upon those he loves as they suffer their
ending....

As for Theoden King - I was always amazed by the fact that Merry took
such a strong liking, nay - love - to the King of the Mark. It is
beautifully rendered here.... his love.

Very nicely written!

Title: Forsaken · Author: Imhiriel · Races: Elves: Drabbles · ID: 369
Reviewer: Linda Hoyland · 2008-11-30 21:02:45 Score: 2
Spoilers!
This drabble vividly conveys the sorrows of Finrod's life from the
peace of the Halls of Mandos

Title: A Great Cause for Concern · Author: Alassante · Races:
Cross-Cultural: Post-Ring War · ID: 682
Reviewer: Keiliss · 2008-11-30 21:04:06 Score: 4
Spoilers!
Aw, I really liked this. Aulë has always been a bit of a favourite of
mine, and I can well imagine he would want a chance to get to know
more about the doings of his children over the sea. I loved the fact
that Galadriel came forward to speak for Gimli, which is exactly what
I would have expected of her. Poor Legolas though -I had to smile at
his reaction to being seen as the troublemaker.

Title: Midnight · Author: EdorasLass · Genres: Romance · ID: 18
Reviewer: agape4gondor · 2008-11-30 21:07:26 Score: 3
Spoilers!
There is something intrinsically gorgeous and spine-tingling about
Boromir and Theodred as partners. This glorious moment captures the
love beautifully. It always makes me a little sad - when the telling
is this perfect - that I have not felt such love. Grateful that these
two had some time together before the end.

Nicely written..... *heavy sigh*

Title: Bombur's Diet · Author: Primsong · Races: Dwarves · ID: 677
Reviewer: agape4gondor · 2008-11-30 21:10:48 Score: 4
Spoilers!
What a delightful tale. One of the greatest gifts given to Primsong is
the ability to write 'voices' so well. The Dwarves are truly Dwarves:
there is no doubt. Bilbo is truly Bilbo.

What they put poor old Bombur through would cause anyone to shiver,
but, in the end, friendship wins out and Bombur is saved.

A delightful telling of another moment in the life of Bilbo.
Congratulations to Primsong for another worthy 'chapter' of this
magnificent Hobbit's life!

Title: Nightfall · Author: Jael · Times: Second and Early Third Age ·
ID: 87
Reviewer: Dwimordene · 2008-11-30 21:16:12 Score: 10
Spoilers!
I'm not much into the politics of Elves or elven immortality and all
its fabled pains and joys, but Jael does a beautiful job of painting
the heartbreak and the agony of war. In that, she excavates the human
and humane that struggles to hold forth when every circumstance seems
against it, and she does it with a certain black humor, irony, and
grace that comes and goes as needed, to highlight the horror and the
hard-won distance from it that Thranduil and Galion manage to maintain.

These are characters who, with one exception (sort of), are given so
little time by Tolkien that they are essentially forms awaiting
content, and Jael makes Mirkwood's king and his valet all her own,
injects powerful, believable, poignant personality into them and
brings to life a whole world around them. One doesn't need the
background of other stories to grasp the essential points. It may seem
a minor point, but I'm especially impressed with her use of Sindarin.
So often, using elven language in a story can backfire, as it breaks
in like a foreign, forced element. Jael avoids that, manages to make
the occasional interjected Sindarin word seem perfectly natural, and
yet readers recognize that these are not quite the same as the words
we are accustomed to - they're just different enough to suggest a
cultural distance that is played out in the vicious, brutal politics
as seen through Thranduil's eyes. And yet the words draw the reader
into a world, rather than reminding us that this is fiction and that
we're outside the story looking into an artifact.

Highly recommended to any lover of Middle-earth - thank you, Jael, for
a beautiful story.

Title: Elrond's Farewell · Author: Armariel · Genres: Poetry · ID: 269
Reviewer: Elleth · 2008-11-30 21:21:28 Score: 4
My grasp of poetry is not that great, but I enjoyed this very much.
The imagery is consistent and fitting (e.g. equalling Arwen with stars
and the allusions to planets and the unierse is very much remindful of
her name 'Undomiel - Evenstar), and Elronds sorrow at the
inevitability of their separation and her daughter's ultimate fate
becomes palbable. Well done.

Title: The King's Surgeon · Author: SurgicalSteel · Genres: Longer
Works · ID: 90
Reviewer: agape4gondor · 2008-11-30 21:22:47 Score: 5
As one begins to read this tale, one rejoices in the strength of the
main character. From the beginnings of a pain-filled life, to service
to Gondor, service to Bree, and then full circle back to Gondor... It
is a lovely story indeed.

The main character fights all kinds of foes, least of not loss of
friends and family, but also a few encounters with the Steward of
Gondor, stupidity and apathy. Her family grows and becomes a part of
this tale - but in the end, it is the surgeon who makes this tale so
wondrous.

Well written story and a great character who becomes a friend in a
very short time!

Title: The Making of Werewolves · Author: Ignoble Bard · Races:
Villains · ID: 42
Reviewer: Rhapsody · 2008-11-30 21:22:49 Score: 5
Spoilers!
This just reads as a tale on might tell children around a campfire. As
short as it might be, it has an epic feel to me with a fierce pacing
that leaves just nothing to your imagination. The answer on how Sauron
went about creating them can be found here, true to his master with
brutal force and cunning insight. At one sight one might perceive
those werewolves as cutesy puppies, but a moment later they might just
bite your heads off. This story feels like a gapfiller of his own
kind, taken from the works of the professor himself. Wonderfully done!

Title: Silenced · Author: Illwynd · Genres: Horror · ID: 31
Reviewer: Dwimordene · 2008-11-30 21:23:30 Score: 6
Spoilers!
A well-wrought AU should leave you thinking about the chances that
Tolkien wrote into the story, whether consciously or not, and out of
which a different story can spring.

Illwynd's short ficlet does just that. I liked the fact that at first,
I wasn't sure where I was in time - the marvelous opening line,
describing the presence of the Ring in Boromir's thought could put us
anywhere. It could put us any time and place between the Council of
Elrond and Parth Galen. When it becomes apparent finally that this is
more than mere temptation, but possession, the story shifts and opens
onto a vision of Minas Tirith subdued to Boromir badly deluded.

The last few lines let the horror come in, as we are reminded that
delusion is only a stage that leads to extinction.

Well done!

Title: Eight Weeks · Author: Dwimordene · Genres: Humor: Other
Fixed-Length Ficlets · ID: 273
Reviewer: Elena Tiriel · 2008-11-30 21:27:05 Score: 2
Spoilers!
LOL! Boromir didn't know it, but he didn't have a chance with those
two colluding against him!

Well done!

Title: Orc Dreams · Author: Tanaqui · Races: Villains: Fixed-Length
Ficlets · ID: 448
Reviewer: Dwimordene · 2008-11-30 21:28:38 Score: 3
Spoilers!
Great use of the stars of Middle-earth! I love seeing the other side
of the Sickle (well, from a safely unorcish distance, of course) and
of the Swordsman, whose orcish name, [Old Red-Eye], seems just right.



Title: Nine Companions · Author: Aranel Took · Genres: Humor: Drabbles
· ID: 259
Reviewer: Dwimordene · 2008-11-30 21:35:30 Score: 3
Spoilers!
Oh my! The King of Gondor, former Ranger extraordinare, gets a rather
fitting hand. Don't tell me - the man with too many names ended up
winning by running a double bluff or something?

Short and sweet!

Title: And Then There Was Cake, or Begetting Day Horrors · Author:
Klose · Races: Elves: Family · ID: 540
Reviewer: Rhapsody · 2008-11-30 21:35:52 Score: 4
Oh my goodness, poor Maedhros and to be born in such a family. I can
see him explaining to an outsider why he would seek out utter
loneliness after experiencing this year after year, being piled on out
of affection by his brothers. I loved the humorous descriptions of his
family members and who would have thought that the often portrayed as
being taciturn Turgon would do such a thing. This is a wonderfully
written ficlet, good for a dozen volleys of laughter.

Title: The Consuming Darkness · Author: Isil Elensar · Genres: Drama ·
ID: 467
Reviewer: Antane · 2008-11-30 21:35:57 Score: 2
Spoilers!
A tragic tale of loss that could fit any age, any mother, any one who
had to part with those beloved. Powerfully written esp. the parting
itself. Thank God for the Faithful!



Title: Call of the Wild · Author: annmarwalk · Genres: Romance:
Drabbles · ID: 94
Reviewer: Dwimordene · 2008-11-30 21:38:22 Score: 3
Spoilers!
Thengel is a character who deserves more fic than he gets, and it's
nice to see him through the eyes of the woman who will be his wife.
Morwen knows what she wants and apparently isn't afraid to plan on
getting him!

Title: Destiny · Author: Cinzia · Races: Men · ID: 592
Reviewer: agape4gondor · 2008-11-30 21:38:27 Score: 3
Spoilers!
I've never read this author before, but most must definitely find more
of these works.

What a glorious moment - and I love the foreshadowing - I really hope
there is a sequel written to this somewhere.

The clandestine moment and the peaking.... my goodness.

Very well written - I can't wait to find more!

Title: The Stolen Child · Author: SurgicalSteel · Races: Men · ID: 197
Reviewer: Cuthalion · 2008-11-30 21:40:10 Score: 9
Spoilers!
The author - skilled and very "at home" in both Tolkien's universe and
her own - tackles one of the most sensitive and difficult issues a
married couple would have to deal with - the untimely loss of an
unborn child. I have seen tales like these - in original and in
fanfiction - where this idea goes terribly wrong, and where the result
is unbearably cheesy. sentimental and - what is worse - unbelievable.

But in this case the whole thing rings heartbreakingly true - no
dramatic scenes, no endless wailing or silly dialogues where every
word is too much to describe such a terrible grief. Surgicalsteel uses
the skill of her writing with great care and caution here... and what
we get so see, is the silent sorrow of two people who dearly love each
other and must now learn to bear the sudden void in their life. They
also have to learn how to grieve together... and this has nothing to
do with fiction, it is the simple truth. This is one of the reasons
why hundreds of readers love those two so much. This is what a true
marriage should be, and Halbarad and Serinde have become the role
model for many, many people... even (sometimes) for me. *smiles*

Title: Concerning Walls · Author: Larner · Races: Cross-Cultural:
Frodo and Faramir · ID: 112
Reviewer: Antane · 2008-11-30 21:41:16 Score: 4
Spoilers!
Frodo is sadly right that his efforts and terrible sacrifices would
not be understood or appreciated by those in his beloved Shire, but
still they were by many who knew the truth and it is right for him to
think it was all worth it if those he loves are kept innocent because
of what he did. But the poor dear, to think he was worthless now, not
wanting to 'inflict' himself on someone. I would hug him if I thought
he would accept it.

Title: A Moment Away · Author: Elen Kortirion · Races: Men: General
Drabbles · ID: 474
Reviewer: Dwimordene · 2008-11-30 21:41:35 Score: 3
Spoilers!
I've never seen this possibility explored - how fortunate for Eowyn,
that she has such a strong grandmother there to catch her and stop the
fall that nearly killed Faramir. Morwen's otherworldly, yet utterly
homey, final line rounds out the drabble perfectly.

Title: Journey's End · Author: Ignoble Bard · Times: Fourth Age and
Beyond: Fixed-Length Ficlets · ID: 234
Reviewer: Dwimordene · 2008-11-30 21:43:22 Score: 3
Spoilers!
I like the otherworldly perspective - I can see Arwen below in my
mind's eye, and I love the way Aragorn's memory soaks the distance
between them until she can join him and they can cut the tie to
Middle-earth together.

Title: Risk Assessment · Author: pandemonium_213 · Races: Elves · ID: 665
Reviewer: Rhapsody · 2008-11-30 21:43:36 Score: 5
This fabulous cast of original characters is so well written as
Pandemonium explores the making of Lembas which can be approached from
both the mystic and scientific angle. I cannot help to feel a bit
sorry for Midhel since she already feels a bit of an outsider, to be
drawn in a discussion so 'technically'. But ah well, once the
scientist are on a roll.... she takes it all very graciously, knowing
that soon she will be initiated and serve amongst those who carry on a
long lasting tradition (of which I hope the author will one day
write!). I love the dialogue and the explorations in this piece which
brings out the tensions amongst the several groups living in Eregion
as well.

Title: FAULT: The Doctor Is In · Author: Fiondil · Genres: Humor:
Valar & Maiar · ID: 545
Reviewer: Keiliss · 2008-11-30 21:44:52 Score: 6
Spoilers!
The warmth of morning – read

Okay, I was giggling almost from the beginning, and I started laughing
out loud at ["Go ahead. Make our millennium."] and haven't stopped
yet. This is an absolute gem! Typical sibling interchange, felt a bit
sorry for Maedhros really, not his fault he doesn't have a right hand
any more, and oh, the poor twins. Not nice to be accused of destroying
the physical side of your parents' marriage. Not nice to even be
reminded that there WAS a physical side to your parents' marriage. I
suspect the dear doctor knows he's onto a good thing here. Why would
he want to move along to wherever it is he's meant to be going? And
the new subject for analysis that he's just chanced upon could keep
him busy for centuries.

And, having watched all sorts of strange attempts to clarify who's who
to readers who may not be familiar with the Quenya forms of first age
names, I had to laugh some more at the use of both.


Title: Expert Treasure Hunter · Author: Tanaqui · Races: Villains:
Fixed-Length Ficlets · ID: 447
Reviewer: Dwimordene · 2008-11-30 21:47:24 Score: 4
Spoilers!
Great insight into a dragon's mind and taste - literally! Smaug the
treasure-gourmand works out just beautifully. He knows his valuable
goods, and savors each one with a well-attuned sensibility.

This Smaug I could see turning up his nose over more 'rustic' fare -
leaving it be not out of any mercy or satiation, but because not every
hoard is up to his exacting standards of taste.

Title: Shadow King · Author: Claudia · Genres: Alternate Universe:
Angst/Tragedy · ID: 227
Reviewer: Elleth · 2008-11-30 21:48:24 Score: 10
Spoilers!
Chilling to the bone, Claudia retells the crowning of the King of
Gondor as it might have been, had things gone otherwise during the
quest. She skillfully narrates the story from the viewpoint of Frodo,
and while it might have been easy to neglect a buildup of atmosphere
and suspense in telling the story from a character's PoV, she does so
masterfully. The prospect here, of Aragorn claiming the One Ring, is
as black as the sky above Minas Tirith, and the images she draws up
are more terrifying than the journey of Frodo and Sam through Mordor:
Aragorn fallen from grace, but retaining enough of his power and
nobility to heal willingly, promise and bring peace (a version of it),
and establish himself as King - and punish cruelly for any diverging
thought or attempt to regain the Ring. At all times the reader can
trace the Aragorn they know and love from the books or the movies, and
in the story finds all of his admirable qualities, but shaken and
twisted by Sauron's Ring.

The Hobbit's voice also rings (please pardon the pun) true, and shows
a hint of that apparently unconquerable optimism that in the source
material drove him to complete the quest: If they all must fall, then
at least Rivendell will fall last and Bilbo may be spared - for a while.

It is easy to believe, like it has been said in the story, that this
is really the end of the world- the only hope, perhaps, the return of
Gandalf. I would very much like to see a continuiation of this, that
could perhaps turn it to a good end still. But even so, I recommend
this story highly if you like darkfic. Well done.

Title: Loss · Author: SurgicalSteel · Genres: Drama: Hurt/Comfort ·
ID: 196
Reviewer: Cuthalion · 2008-11-30 21:51:53 Score: 7
Spoilers!
It is both strange and fascinating to read the same tale in both
timelines; for Surgicalsteel (who stays scrupulously true to canon in
the oríginal version of "The KIng's Surgeon") wrote another one where
(as she told her greedy readers) "almost everyone should get a happy
ending".

But even if she skillfully steers around some canon deaths, she
doesn't avoid all of them... and so Serinde's and Halbarad's third
child is born too early in the "Happy Timeline", too. The grief is as
great as it is in "The Stolen Child",but at least Serinde doesn't have
to cope with two dire losses at the same time. I generally don't like
"Happy AU's" (not even my own), but this one is the great ecxeption.
Readers with a heart for strong and believable OFC's (and who are able
to value exact medical descriptions instead of the usual foggy
pseudo-treatment you get to see in many fanfics) should by all means
try BOTH time lines.

Title: Wedding Nerves · Author: Jay of Lasgalen · Times: Late Third
Age: Gondor · ID: 48
Reviewer: agape4gondor · 2008-11-30 21:54:57 Score: 4
Spoilers!
It is so funny when one reads of the three brothers of Imladris! Even
when they are taken out of their 'home,' they still carry the
remembrance of the Last Homely House with them.

As I read this, I had to shake my head for a moment and remember that
Aragorn was in Minas Tirith - the smell, the feel, the sensations -
all belonged to Imladris.

Great piece of writing of the brothers come to help.... and of the
love between them!

Title: Footsteps in Time · Author: Keiliss · Races: Elves · ID: 76
Reviewer: Rhapsody · 2008-11-30 22:07:14 Score: 10
Spoilers!
[Footsteps in Time] is that kind of gapfiller you always knew it was
written by someone regarding the time Galadriel spent in Beleriand
after her last canonical mention of her stay in Doriath. I love
Keiliss take on this all, knowing the small puzzles and clues Tolkien
left himself, she did a masterful job in writing such a fabulous
background story regarding Galadriel and Celeborn. I can see and
understand how their love could last so long through all and why they
would only turn their minds of begetting a child somewhere in the
Second Age, especially given the turbulence of the First Age and how
much this takes out of Galadriel herself. It feels to me that Melian
awoke a latent skill in Galadriel and that it will take a long time
before she learns to master it in full, followed with intense assaults
on her mind as she lives through the deaths of those close to her,
Finrod specifically. I love how the story ends with her meeting the
young Gil-galad with so much love and yes hope for what is to come.
What a wonderful story, heartbreaking and it just reads so smoothly as
I turned one page after another, wanting to know where their journey
would take them. A special notion should be given to Keiliss narrative
skills and how she portrays scenes and situations with such a magical
touch, filled with grace.

Title: With Many "Fond" Acknowledgments · Author: Thundera Tiger ·
Genres: Humor · ID: 472
Reviewer: Dwimordene · 2008-11-30 22:07:19 Score: 8
Spoilers!
Poor Sam! Thundera Tiger has taken great pains to show us in the past
that words matter - niggling little details of wording can cause huge
logical crises and bring stalwart companions nearly to blows. I am
sure that Tolkien, with his love for languages and the ways in which
they allow reality to appear in different ways, would approve of this
attention to verbal detail.

However, while Tolkien was apparently haunted by some creative force
that wouldn't let him *not* change Sindarin a million times, I dare
say he was never had it quite so bad as Sam. One proofreader can be a
blessing and a taskmaster; two can break most ordinary people if
they're really detailed. Up to eight proofreaders, each of whom is
heavily and personally invested in the final product and often times
personally invested in minimizing, countering, or eliminating the
redactions of other proofreaders, would be enough to drive someone
straight to Valinor just to escape them. One wonders, in light of this
story, if in fact that's not the real tale that neither Sam nor Frodo
decided to record.

Thanks for the laugh, Thundera!

Title: Wild Swan · Author: Tanaqui · Genres: Drama: Gondor
Fixed-Length Ficlets · ID: 328
Reviewer: Radbooks · 2008-11-30 22:09:48 Score: 3
Spoilers!
A very nice drabble [part of a series] about one of my favorite
Gondorians, Imrahil. I can just feel the horror he feels for Denethor
as they discuss the upcoming wedding of Denethor and Findulas. You've
really captured Imrahil the way that I see him.

Nicely done!

Title: Second Best · Author: Tanaqui · Races: Men: Gondor Drabbles ·
ID: 384
Reviewer: agape4gondor · 2008-11-30 22:10:25 Score: 4
Spoilers!
This was a real surprise, and yet, not quite so surprising.

Needless to say, the author seems to be speaking of Faramir, youngest
and least-respected son of Denethor - and yet, the ending is very
different from what is expected.

As a writer of Denethor, I have felt seriously that these two men are
closer in 'likeness' than is suspected. That Denethor would be treated
the same way by Ecthelion as he treated Faramir is not too surprising.
Do we not learn from our elders?

Very nice telling and in so few words!

Title: Duty, Honour, Country · Author: Rhapsody · Races: Elves: Other
Fixed-Length Ficlets · ID: 81
Reviewer: Raksha the Demon · 2008-11-30 22:11:58 Score: 5
Spoilers!
The stirring words of General MacArthur have inspired this excellent
Maglor drabble tryptych. Rhapsody brings out how the inspiration of
duty has trapped Maglor between a moral rock-and-hard-place, yet
provided him with a certain comfort, as does the adherence to the
concept of honor. Maglor walked a very fine line, morally, in the
Silmarillion; and this piece brings out the lines he has crossed
unwillingly and the lines he still strives to maintain.

Fascinating translation of a 20th century warrior's creed into the
mind of a conflicted son of Feanor!

Title: Sing All Ye People! · Author: Raksha the Demon · Times: Late
Third Age: Gondor · ID: 249
Reviewer: Rhapsody · 2008-11-30 22:13:31 Score: 4
What a brilliantly written short story based on a brief scene in
[Return of the King]. Raksha writes this scene solely from Faramir's
perspective with all its emotions and despair being washed away by the
eagle's song. Where Tolkien just merely tells, Raksha fills the
reader's senses and mind with a perfect showcase of showing what is
happening around Faramir, a feat she is so immensely good at. A new
age is dawning, you can just sense it through her words!

Title: A Fair Trial · Author: Maeve Riannon · Genres: Humor: Valar &
Maiar · ID: 403
Reviewer: Keiliss · 2008-11-30 22:16:15 Score: 7
Spoilers!
Oh lordie, where do I start? I did sometimes rather wonder why Sauron
decided not to take his chances on the compassion of the Valar at the
end of the First Age, and equally I wondered whatever had become of
Melian - and here we have the answers. The scary thing is, it makes so
much sense! The Valar weren't annoyed at them because of their
so-called dubious actions over on this side of the ocean, it was all
about what it is always all about - money. Tax havens, unpaid checks.
Oh yes, all is now clear. And I'll bet anything that Curumo wasn't the
only available defense counsel, but rather that he was the cheapest.
What? Just saying.

I thought Sauron's extremely logical explanation for Finrod's quite
understandable demise made perfect sense, and that really he should
have just asked to defend himself. Failing which, leaving with a hot
chick - um, nightingale - seemed a sensible decision. Wonder how that
worked out?

Title: Fatherhood · Author: annmarwalk · Genres: Humor: Drabbles · ID: 547
Reviewer: Radbooks · 2008-11-30 22:18:19 Score: 2
Spoilers!
What a wonderful drabble with such a pleasant surprise ending to it!
Imrahil is a favorite and I can just imagine him thinking such things
about his only daughter. Very nicely done.

Title: Flickers · Author: Meril · Times: Multi-Age: Fixed-Length
Ficlets · ID: 390
Reviewer: Elleth · 2008-11-30 22:19:44 Score: 9
Spoilers!
Like [Five Things that Never Happened to Nerdanel], [Flickers] has
been one of my favourite stories featuring Feanor and Nerdanel, and
one of the most influential to my view of this particular pairing.
Meril has collected a series of short fictions that sharply outline
the relationship of Feanor and Nerdanel from the beginning to the end,
showing them in different stages of their development, and even
manages to establish a sense of consecutive development that extends
beyond the temporal and emotional levels: Sometimes single recurring
words or phrases serve as trigger to recall an earlier drabble and
string them together so as to make the reader notice more
similarities. This is especially powerfully done in [Gatherers] and
[Gatherers II].
And still, this effect doesn't lessen the impact of each drabble on
its own. They all brim with gorgeous writing, sharp characterization
and deep insight into the nature of Feanor's and Nerdanel's
relationship, and never fail to evoke a range of emotions in the
reader. I sometimes wish the author had written more, if not for the
disruption of the lovely end point of a Hobbit in Tirion hearing the
stories we have just been told, and so returning to the beginng.

Title: Eight Weeks · Author: Dwimordene · Genres: Humor: Other
Fixed-Length Ficlets · ID: 273
Reviewer: Rhapsody · 2008-11-30 22:24:52 Score: 5
Spoilers!
I will admit that I always seek out Dwim's Halbarad stories when I
can, but this drabble series sounded so intriguing that I had to read
it. And what a treat it was! I could not help to chuckle at the first
drabble, but as I proceeded onwards to the remaining seven, it just
got worse... containing my laughter and keeping it down as best as I
could. How can you manage to keep a reader so entertained with such a
fabulous plotbunny... which is just.. Boromir's beard? Well she can!
This bit was the icing on the cake for me:

["Granted, but brother," Faramir persisted, "if we accept the Dwarves'
account of the meaning of the beard, I worry that even should we see
you wed, we'd see no heirs forthcoming!"

Boromir glowered. Finally: "Look, Cirdan has a beard..."]

I am not certain if that was the best argument he could brought on the
table at that moment. Wonderfully written Dwim, needless to say how
much I loved it ;)


Title: The Houseless · Author: Jael · Genres: Horror · ID: 178
Reviewer: Dwimordene · 2008-11-30 22:26:09 Score: 5
Spoilers!
Sad and sweet. At least this particular ghost, though a kind of
traveling hitchhiker, did not end up being the sort to invade and destroy.

I love the atmosphere of the story. Jael seamlessly works in Halloween
customs - we recognize them, but we don't find them jarringly out of
place. The uneasy forest and Legolas's concerned horse build tension,
and make us wonder just what is going to transpire. At the same time,
Jael holds the line against having Legolas be uneasy in the presence
of ghosts - as we saw on the Paths of the Dead, they don't trouble him.

Title: Battle upon the Quays · Author: Imhiriel · Races: Men: General
Drabbles · ID: 376
Reviewer: Elena Tiriel · 2008-11-30 19:35:24 Score: 2
Spoilers!
Oh, how shocked the captain must have been to be beaten in his own
home territory!

Well done!

Title: O Kheled-zâram fair and wonderful! · Author: Imhiriel · Races:
Dwarves: Drabbles · ID: 354
Reviewer: Elena Tiriel · 2008-11-30 19:36:59 Score: 1
How romantic!

Title: Eagle of the Star · Author: alex_quine · Genres: Drama:
Featuring Aragorn · ID: 152
Reviewer: foxrafer (csevans8) · 2008-11-30 19:37:05 Score: 7
Spoilers!
This is such an incredibly beautiful piece. The tone and language are
perfect. The opening scene gives a great introduction to Thorongil and
Aragorn's role during this time in his life. I particularly love and
appreciate this depiction of Denethor. It is a welcome change to the
many characterizations where he is practically demonized. This
Denethor not only is a sympathetic and likable character, he is also
portrayed with great depth and care.

I really enjoy how after reading this it puts Denethor and Aragorn's
future relationship into a very interesting light, if we assume that
Denethor knows they are the same person. I'm not sure whether I think
Ecthelion knows who Thorongil is or not, but I kind of like that at
least for me it's a bit ambiguous. At the end I decided he doesn't,
but there's something in how he watches them leave that makes we wonder.

A very powerful and thought-provoking story.

Title: Farewell · Author: agape4gondor · Genres: Drama: Final Partings
· ID: 127
Reviewer: Linaewen · 2008-11-30 19:38:12 Score: 10
I truly cannot describe how deeply this story touches me. I am amazed
at the insight the author Agape4gondor brings to the relationship
between the brothers Boromir and Faramir. Many tales have been written
about the parting between them, as Boromir sets out upon the quest
that was the end result of the dream Faramir and he shared. But this
particular tale of that parting ranks among the best of them! It is
poignant as a farewell between brothers should be, but it is also
stirring to the heart as Boromir speaks strongly of his intentions and
his purpose. I am very much impressed with Boromir here, for he is set
in his heart and his mind for the journey, and yet he can also still
look ahead to what his brother will be facing with Boromir gone. Even
as Boromir gives his brother counsel on how to face that which lies
ahead, he also prevents him from speaking those words that will lessen
his resolve in going, and also undermine Faramir's own confidence in
himself.

I love so much their last night together, and Boromir's tender parting
from Faramir. It is sad in a way, because one feels that Boromir
already has a sense of what is to come, and yet it is ultimately
loving and comforting – everything a farewell should be among kin who
know not when they will see one another again.

I weep every time I read this tale, because it is that beautiful!

Title: Forsaken · Author: Imhiriel · Races: Elves: Drabbles · ID: 369
Reviewer: Elena Tiriel · 2008-11-30 19:39:37 Score: 1
How heart-breaking!

Title: Maglor's Harp · Author: Ford of Bruinen · Genres: Horror · ID: 660
Reviewer: Rhapsody · 2008-11-30 19:40:01 Score: 10
Spoilers!
The horror genre is quite a complex one, and a writer does not only
have to resort to events or objects beyond the character's control to
create such an effect. Uli writes a Maglor that in his own reasoning
commits a horrible crime in our eyes, but to him it seems like the
most normal thing to do at that moment. The musician needs an
instrument so for that he just pushes the boundaries as to how far he
can go a bit further every time taking the reader with him. The author
captures the madness and deepest horror of the human mind so immensely
well, a part of this genre I don't see often explored in this fandom.
Personally I like the build up in this story, the tension is so
palpable here that you in a way want to avert your eyes and yet you
simply cannot. The suspension and subtlety is so well done with not
too many details, the suggestion merely is enough to make your skin
crawl. To me it is so well written that over the years his mind also
forgot other things, not only the songs he once sang, the instruments
he played, but also his morality, respect and his own human limits.
One can only imagine how his public will react to his performance,
especially since they might be overwrought (or not) of the girl
missing and there he just sits to entertain. Masterfully written Uli!

Title: Moved to Pity · Author: Imhiriel · Genres: Drama: General
Drabbles · ID: 366
Reviewer: Elleth · 2008-11-30 19:43:12 Score: 4
Spoilers!
Simple but beautiful, this drabble deals with the aftermath of
Luthien's choice and aptly depicts what Tolkien had in mind when he
said that the Fate of Men would in time become a cause for envy even
among the Firstborn and the Valar. Whether or not they understand it,
they cannot help being affected by it (especially in the
far-from-ordinary case of Luthien), even though in the end all serves
the will of the One. That and much more is wonderfully conveyed in
these hundred words.

Title: Silenced · Author: Illwynd · Genres: Horror · ID: 31
Reviewer: Elena Tiriel · 2008-11-30 19:47:35 Score: 1
Spoilers!
Oh, my! This is indeed creepy!

Well done!

Title: Flame of Life · Author: Imhiriel · Times: Multi-Age:
Fixed-Length Ficlets · ID: 114
Reviewer: Elleth · 2008-11-30 19:47:46 Score: 3
Poetic, touching and insightful, this double-drable records the
thoughts of the Flame Imperishable. It is a real asset to
Tolkien-fanfiction as a whole; while still completely immersed in
Tolkien's world, this is almost meta-fanfiction in a way, touching as
it does on all creation.

Title: The Sky Is Over · Author: Robinka · Races: Elves: Drabbles · ID: 83
Reviewer: Elleth · 2008-11-30 19:59:05 Score: 4
Spoilers!
Sad, poignant and brimming with symbolism from the first to last line,
this drabble sheds light on one of the sorrows of the Noldor in Exile:
Those left behind, and what consequences may arise from it. Finrod is
a good exemplary choice knowing that he had no wife and considered
himself free to participate in Beren's quest for the Silmaril, but
that does not make their prior separation any less painful, as is
easily shown here. Magnificent writing and a strong voice make me want
to read more by this author.

Title: Aftermaths and Consequences · Author: Gwynnyd · Times: Fourth
Age and Beyond · ID: 268
Reviewer: Elena Tiriel · 2008-11-30 20:01:50 Score: 2
Spoilers!
Not very romantic, but at least practical.... and much better than
starving.

Nicely done!

Title: Night Terrors · Author: Gwynnyd · Genres: Drama: Gondor
Fixed-Length Ficlets · ID: 433
Reviewer: Elena Tiriel · 2008-11-30 20:07:13 Score: 2
Spoilers!
It's so hard to stop being responsible for the whole world, especially
when you see how vulnerable is your first child.

Faramir at his fatherly best.

Well done!

Title: Kementari · Author: Marta · Times: First Age and Prior · ID: 99
Reviewer: Dwimordene · 2008-11-30 20:08:55 Score: 5
Spoilers!
Kementari's perspective is not often used. Marta takes it up to good
effect here, revealing the bitterness of loss that plays naturally
into resentment over the way in which Yavanna' creations seemed doomed
to be forgotten or taken for granted. The Aftercomers will more easily
overlook her as well, than they will overlook other Valar.

If your greatest creations must be destroyed, one would wish at least
that everyone would remember them, or take all the more care of your
lesser creations, but that is not how the world goes.

Well done, Marta!

Title: Letters From Faramir · Author: agape4gondor · Genres: Drama:
Featuring Boromir or Faramir · ID: 425
Reviewer: Linaewen · 2008-11-30 20:14:18 Score: 10
Spoilers!
These letters from Faramir, written to his brother, Boromir, while he
is away on his journey, are simply precious! What an extraordinary
look into Faramir's heart they give us. The letters also provide the
reader with much insight into what is going on in Gondor and
especially in Minas Tirith, as well, as war prepares, and as the
people wait for Boromir's return – hopefully with an army at his back!

I love how the series of missives begins with a letter from Boromir.
The reader learns much about Boromir's heart, as well, and even senses
some of his misgivings as to what is to come. This letter sets off a
series of replies from his loving brother, Faramir – replies that may
never reach Boromir, but still they are important and vital for
Faramir to write.

I always feel that being able to express his love and concern and his
sorrow at Boromir's absence in this way must have been very helpful to
Faramir, even therapeutic. Even though his brother Boromir is not
present with him, he is still able to tell him the things that are on
his heart and on his mind. Perhaps Faramir is able to express himself
even more clearly than he might have been able to if Boromir had
actually still been present with him! There is just something about
writing a letter to a dear loved one that allows one to open the heart
to him and to pour out one's soul in an uninhibited manner.

I really appreciate the way these letters follow the chronology of the
tale, so that we know what is happening in Gondor, as well as within
Faramir's heart and mind. This gives a sense of reality and urgency to
the series of letters.

I have always loved this tale, and for me, these letters from Faramir
are an indispensable part of my routine of reading Tolkien's history!

Title: Too Many Rangers · Author: Larner · Races: Hobbits · ID: 116
Reviewer: Elleth · 2008-11-30 20:14:57 Score: 4
Hilarious and clever conclusions drawn from the many stages it took
Tolkien to bring his magnum opus to its final form. The confusing
encounters in Bree had me laugh out loud more than once (to the point
that Laurelin the cat became so thoroughly annoyed she left the room),
and whatever that says about my laughter, it also says a lot about the
quality of this great piece of writing.

Title: In Passing · Author: Altariel · Races: Men · ID: 104
Reviewer: dkpalaska · 2008-11-30 20:15:42 Score: 10
Spoilers!
I think one reason (among many, many others) that I enjoy Altariel's
Faramir stories so much is that the author's writing is as subtle and
understated, and yet as deep, as the Steward and Prince himself. They
compliment each other perfectly, and this is a sublime example.

It is a rare thing we're shown, adult Faramir losing – Beren is as
surprised as the rest of us! (["The Queen," he explained, "has the
advantage of experience."] *snort!*) How he draws Beren into enjoying
his company highlights that his keen observational and interpersonal
skills have not suffered from the passage of time any more than his
dry humor has.

The many historical allusions that accompany the naming of the pieces
are wonderful, just wonderful. Even here, Faramir tucks in quiet
lessons that may resonate later – and do, as we see from Beren's
drawing. Such a beautiful reference to Faramir's White Lady, whom he
will see soon; not too bad a trade, for not living to see the Tower of
the Moon restored. (And that image – through Beren's drawing – was
indeed glorious.)

The interactions between Faramir and his great-grandson are a treasure
for the reader as much as for Faramir, and I love the thought that the
next owner of the chess set has been chosen. Quiet, thoughtful, sad
and hopeful all at once, this is a lovely addition to any
Faramir-lover's fanfic favorites.

Title: Reparation · Author: Isabeau of Greenlea · Races: Men · ID: 296
Reviewer: dkpalaska · 2008-11-30 20:16:23 Score: 10
It is always a pleasure to sink back into Isabeau's small corner of
Tolkien fanfic, and that is doubly true when her incredibly real and
finely-crafted OCs are front and center in the story. I admit,
["Reparation"] smoothed out some definite rough spots for me from
["Dol Amroth Yule"], where Andrahar often seemed out of sync with what
I had come to expect from him; there were several dramatic failings
from a character I frankly admire for his unbending sense of honor.

As always, part of the joy in reading this is simply due to gaining
another outside view of Hethlin. (And what a view it is! Hah!) But the
rather disparaging recounting of the new esquire's personal traits is
followed quickly by a reminder that Andrahar has not lost his sense of
duty: that he places such a high bar on his expectations for himself
as Hethlin's trainer is heartbreaking, given the caprices of
battle-luck that he has no control over.

Brand's involvement in Andrahar's realization of what he needed to do
to right those wrongs is just... inspired. The interaction between
these two as Andra reaches his internal moment of truth is uplifting
and feels completely, totally right, particularly given Boromir's
relationship to both of them. As always, the connections to other
stories are subtly and seamlessly part of the narrative, adding a
delicious richness to the whole.

Title: Portrait of a Queen · Author: Aruthir · Races: Men · ID: 338
Reviewer: dkpalaska · 2008-11-30 20:17:45 Score: 8
The story of Aldarion and Erendis has enough bad blood and angst from
both sides to make a prize-winning soap opera. The product of this
unhappy marriage is Ancalime, who goes on from the poor example of her
parents to garner a very unhappy marriage for herself. And three
generations later, her great-granddaughter begins "seeing" her...

This is a fascinating and well-conceived look into the first two
Ruling Queens. The writing is engaging and brief; the story is amply
told by what we are given, but the layered hints that Aruthir slips in
had me scrambling for my copy of UT in order to fully appreciate them.
I thought the author was exceedingly inspired to see the potential
connections between these two individuals, but the similarities in
thoughts and attitudes are striking and believable.

Having it told in short snippets highlights the important aspects and
delivers an immense emotional punch, as well as leaving plenty of
questions about the intersections of fate and free will. Was this a
meeting of kindred spirits? What would Telperien have become without
the visits? Excellent!

Title: Old Man Willow · Author: Nath · Races: Other Beings · ID: 314
Reviewer: Linaewen · 2008-11-30 20:20:58 Score: 4
This is one of the most chilling tales I have ever read! Once read,
one cannot stop thinking about the possibilities! Even so, I must
admit I have read this story more than once, because I think it is
simply excellent.

The frightening thing about this story is that it is so very
plausible! The possibility that is suggested at the end is definitely
a logical conclusion, but it is so very chilling to contemplate. After
reading this story, I can never view Old Man Willow in the same way again!

Title: Flickers · Author: Meril · Times: Multi-Age: Fixed-Length
Ficlets · ID: 390
Reviewer: Dwimordene · 2008-11-30 20:27:25 Score: 5
Spoilers!
Meril writes with precision and poetry, as always. These drabbles and
half drabbles manage to reflect, in bits and pieces like an
appropriately broken mirror, the history of Feänor and Nerdanel, and
members of their family. [Gathering I] and [Gathering II] were of
interest to me insofar as they are parallel in length and form - the
shortest lines delineate the moment of their greatest distance from
each other, and as the drabbles in between spin out in lengthier
chunks, it's as if they're trying to bridge that gap and fill it.

I especially loved the way [Distinction] and [Strength to Save]
followed on each other and finish in [Reality], suggesting both a
certain triumph of fellowship, and also the irreducible ambiguity of
Feänor and Nerdanel.

Title: The Waker · Author: Nancy Brooke · Races: Villains:
Fixed-Length Ficlets · ID: 287
Reviewer: Alassante · 2008-11-30 20:27:31 Score: 4
There is a reason why Nancy is known as the drabble queen on Open
Scrolls. She can pack more story and imagery into so few words than
most people can in a full chapter. This story was no different. I
loved the way she gave a voice to a creature who had no language.
Nancy also managed to give it characterization as well. Very original;
I would not have even thought twice about this character. This is a
simply delightful drabble.

Title: Renewal · Author: Elena Tiriel · Times: Late Third Age: General
Fixed-Length Ficlets · ID: 208
Reviewer: Linda Hoyland · 2008-11-30 20:27:34 Score: 2
Spoilers!
I loved this account of the renewing of Narsil and turning the sword
into Anduril. Phoenix like,the great sword arises again from flame and
ash.

Title: The Wrong Path · Author: Erviniae · Genres: Drama: Incomplete ·
ID: 538
Reviewer: Keiliss · 2008-11-30 20:29:12 Score: 4
Spoilers!
I have dipped into this story on livejournal, although I don't think
I've left much feedback - my bad, yes. I thought it was
well-conceived, and the intolerance of Turgon's Gondolin definitely
resonates for me. I suspect this story isn't typical MEFA fare, but
that's a shame because I've found it a plot-solid and at times thought
provoking read with characters whose fates and happiness I grew to
care very much about..

Title: Unwilling · Author: Elena Tiriel · Races: Elves: Drabbles · ID: 64
Reviewer: Linda Hoyland · 2008-11-30 20:31:00 Score: 2
Spoilers!
I loved this poignant account of the fading of the Elves from
M-E,especially the tear drop on the ancient tree.

Title: Tree of Knowledge · Author: Nancy Brooke · Times: Late Third
Age: Gondor Drabbles · ID: 172
Reviewer: Dwimordene · 2008-11-30 20:31:54 Score: 5
Spoilers!
Nancy bills this as [critically bookverse], which is an interesting
description. It's a lovely drabble, brilliantly worded to draw out the
danger into which Boromir rides, and which Denethor foresees. Why not
tell his son?

I get the sense that the drabble draws out Denethor's pride: this
almost sounds like a test that Denethor has been quietly training his
sons to withstand, terrified that the day might come when they'll fail it.

Precisely what failure would mean is not entirely clear: if Boromir
falls... to death? To love? To corruption? Any or all are possible.

Denethor gets a drabble as ambivalent and ambiguous as he deserves, in
my opinion. Well done!

So would I! The awards continue to get better and better every year! Thanks
SO much to everyone who worked so very hard, especially in the last couple
of weeks!
Dreamflower

On Mon, Dec 1, 2008 at 1:31 AM, nath kuijpers <nath_kuijpers@yahoo.com>wrote:

> Marta,
>
> As a 'mere' author and reviewer I'd like to echo your thanks to all the
> volunteers who have made the 2008 MEFA possible, and add you to the list of
> people who deserve our warm gratitude.
>
> Thank you all for another great year!!
>
> Nath
>
> --- On Mon, 1/12/08, aure_enteluva <marta.fandom@gmail.com<marta.fandom%40gmail.com>>
> wrote:
>
> > From: aure_enteluva <marta.fandom@gmail.com <marta.fandom%40gmail.com>>
> > Subject: [MEFAwards] 2008 MEFAs - Voting Closed
> > To: MEFAwards@yahoogroups.com <MEFAwards%40yahoogroups.com>
> > Date: Monday, 1 December, 2008, 5:25 AM
>
> > Hey guys,
> >
> > As you may have noticed, voting for the 2008 MEFAs ended a
> > few hours
> > ago. The results were really quite astounding this year.
> > Nearly 5,400
> > reviews for 660 stories! I am always blown away by so many
> > people,
> > plugging away for so much of the year, often giving
> > comments to
> > authors they don't know outside the awards. Makes my
> > heart go
> > pitter-patter with fannish glee. :-)
> >
> > I have a few "tying notes," to borrow the name of
> > a drabble from this
> > year's competition. Topics that probably deserve a word
> > or two.
> >
> > RESULTS
> >
> > The authors who placed or received an honorable mention
> > have been
> > informed of their results by private email to the address
> > registered
> > at our website. You may want to check your spam mail box;
> > the emails
> > should have come from mefasupportATgmailDOTcom.
> >
> > Full results will be posted here by mid-week. I'll also
> > send out an
> > announcement through the promoters to inform people at
> > various groups.
> >
> > REVIEWS
> >
> > Annmarwalk will continue posting reviews here until
> > Wednesday, to
> > space out the many reviews submitted near the end of the
> > awards. Do
> > read them if you're interested, because it's always
> > fun to see what
> > other people thought of a story.
> >
> > You can also view all of the available banners at our
> > website,
> > www.mefawards.net/MEFA2008/. Just log in and click
> > "Reviews" at the
> > top of the site.
> >
> > BANNERS
> >
> > We would like to give winning authors a banner of their
> > choice. You
> > can find the banner selections at three places.
> >
> > 1. http://mefawards.net/fanart/categories.php?cat_id=799
> > 2. http://s47.photobucket.com/albums/f163/Elena_Tiriel/
> > All banners at these two sites are available to you.
> > 3. http://mefawards.net/fanart/categories.php?cat_id=801
> > This is the banners for nominated authors. The following
> > banners can
> > be converted into banners for winning authors: 19; 72-86,
> > 88-96, 104-111.
> >
> > Once you find a banner you'd like to use, please email
> > mefa.banners@gmail.com <mefa.banners%40gmail.com> with which one you
> prefer and it
> > will be
> > customized with the place and category that you won. The
> > finished
> > product will then be emailed to you.
> >
> > SUGGESTIONS FOR 2009
> >
> > Every year at the end of the awards we have held what's
> > known as a
> > post-mortem, where participants can make suggestions and
> > debate
> > subbestions made by other people. We're going to handle
> > that a tad
> > differently this year, since the awards have grown larger
> > and also
> > because of some non-fannish commitments of mine (and other
> > key
> > volunteers). We will be accepting your suggestions, though,
> > have no fear.
> >
> > Once we finish up the 2008 awards and get the results
> > announced, I'll
> > discuss this in more detail. In the mean time, you can
> > start thinking
> > about if there are any areas of the awards that you think
> > could be
> > improved.
> >
> > THANKS
> >
> > Finally, I want to thank everyone who has participated so
> > fully in
> > these awards. Authors, thank you for sharing your work with
> > us.
> > Reviewers, I really appreciate your investment of times.
> > Volunteers
> > deserve a special gratitude; many deserve quite more than
> > that, but
> > unfortunately my gratitude is all I have to give.
> >
> > In particular, thank you to:
> >
> > --- Tanaqui and Aranel, for managing the technical end of
> > our website.
> > --- Elliska, for approving and processing new members.
> > --- Radbooks and Inkling, for their invaluable advice and
> > help on
> > special projects as they came up
> >
> > --- Annmarwalk for posting the reviews at the MEFAwards
> > Yahoo group
> > and mefas LJ - EVERY DAY;
> > --- Elea24 and PipMer, for forwarding on author responses
> > to their
> > reviewers
> >
> > --- Fiondil and Beruthiel's Cat, who managed the banner
> > team, including
> > ------- The banner creators: Baranduin; Cactuskim; Elea24;
> > Elena
> > Tiriel; Marta; nau_tika; and viv
> > ------- The banner customizers: Cactuskim, Elea24, Elena
> > Tiriel;
> > mistry89; nancylea; Nath; Nieriel Raina; and viv
> >
> > These are just the people who have volunteered extensively
> > since
> > categorization. For a full list of all the volunteers,
> > please see
> > http://mefawards.net/MEFA2008/index.php?page=FAQvolunteers
> >
> > *Thank you.*
> >
> > Marta
> > (MEFA Admin.)
>
>
>


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

Thank you to all the hard-working volunteers, to those who wrote reviews, and to the authors who shared their vision, and congratulations to all as well, for another successfully completed effort.

Kudos,
Lin


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

I went to the MEFA site this morning.

As has happened in the past, I didn't get to *half* of the stories I wanted to. I loved the "wish list" feature, by the way, which made it easier to duck in and out and add a story to my "meaning to" list. I'm sure I reviewed more than I would have, without that feature.

However, I do have a small suggestion--if I'm not misreading the site. This morning it is showing randomly selected reviews. Nice! However, I wanted to read a story that was reviewed, but I'm not sure how to find the story. It is identified by title, nominator, and reviewer (a clickable link, that leads to an "access denied" screen), but I don't see an indication of the author's name or where to find the story. Is there some "simple" click that is evading me? Or is a little tweak needed to let people find the story featured in the "random review"?

Thanks,
Lin


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

Thanks so much to all of the volunteers and voters. Ya'll rock my
socks!

--- In MEFAwards@yahoogroups.com, "aure_enteluva" <marta.fandom@...>
wrote:

>
> Hey guys,
>
> As you may have noticed, voting for the 2008 MEFAs ended a few hours
> ago. The results were really quite astounding this year. Nearly

5,400

> reviews for 660 stories! I am always blown away by so many people,
> plugging away for so much of the year, often giving comments to
> authors they don't know outside the awards. Makes my heart go
> pitter-patter with fannish glee. :-)
>
> I have a few "tying notes," to borrow the name of a drabble from

this

> year's competition. Topics that probably deserve a word or two.
>
> RESULTS
>
> The authors who placed or received an honorable mention have been
> informed of their results by private email to the address registered
> at our website. You may want to check your spam mail box; the emails
> should have come from mefasupportATgmailDOTcom.
>
> Full results will be posted here by mid-week. I'll also send out an
> announcement through the promoters to inform people at various

groups.

>
> REVIEWS
>
> Annmarwalk will continue posting reviews here until Wednesday, to
> space out the many reviews submitted near the end of the awards. Do
> read them if you're interested, because it's always fun to see what
> other people thought of a story.
>
> You can also view all of the available banners at our website,
> www.mefawards.net/MEFA2008/. Just log in and click "Reviews" at the
> top of the site.
>
> BANNERS
>
> We would like to give winning authors a banner of their choice. You
> can find the banner selections at three places.
>
> 1. http://mefawards.net/fanart/categories.php?cat_id=799
> 2. http://s47.photobucket.com/albums/f163/Elena_Tiriel/
> All banners at these two sites are available to you.
> 3. http://mefawards.net/fanart/categories.php?cat_id=801
> This is the banners for nominated authors. The following banners can
> be converted into banners for winning authors: 19; 72-86, 88-96,

104-111.

>
> Once you find a banner you'd like to use, please email
> mefa.banners@... with which one you prefer and it will be
> customized with the place and category that you won. The finished
> product will then be emailed to you.
>
> SUGGESTIONS FOR 2009
>
> Every year at the end of the awards we have held what's known as a
> post-mortem, where participants can make suggestions and debate
> subbestions made by other people. We're going to handle that a tad
> differently this year, since the awards have grown larger and also
> because of some non-fannish commitments of mine (and other key
> volunteers). We will be accepting your suggestions, though, have no

fear.

>
> Once we finish up the 2008 awards and get the results announced,

I'll

> discuss this in more detail. In the mean time, you can start

thinking

> about if there are any areas of the awards that you think could be
> improved.
>
> THANKS
>
> Finally, I want to thank everyone who has participated so fully in
> these awards. Authors, thank you for sharing your work with us.
> Reviewers, I really appreciate your investment of times. Volunteers
> deserve a special gratitude; many deserve quite more than that, but
> unfortunately my gratitude is all I have to give.
>
> In particular, thank you to:
>
> --- Tanaqui and Aranel, for managing the technical end of our

website.

> --- Elliska, for approving and processing new members.
> --- Radbooks and Inkling, for their invaluable advice and help on
> special projects as they came up
>
> --- Annmarwalk for posting the reviews at the MEFAwards Yahoo group
> and mefas LJ - EVERY DAY;
> --- Elea24 and PipMer, for forwarding on author responses to their
> reviewers
>
> --- Fiondil and Beruthiel's Cat, who managed the banner team,

including

> ------- The banner creators: Baranduin; Cactuskim; Elea24; Elena
> Tiriel; Marta; nau_tika; and viv
> ------- The banner customizers: Cactuskim, Elea24, Elena Tiriel;
> mistry89; nancylea; Nath; Nieriel Raina; and viv
>
> These are just the people who have volunteered extensively since
> categorization. For a full list of all the volunteers, please see
> http://mefawards.net/MEFA2008/index.php?page=FAQvolunteers
>
> *Thank you.*
>
> Marta
> (MEFA Admin.)
>

Yes! Huge props to all the admin and volunteers. You guys are awesome. This
thing is big, unwieldy and complicated. I'm especially grateful since I am
one of those known nuisances who makes mistakes and wants them corrected and
needs everything explained personally three times. Thank you so much.
**************Life should be easier. So should your homepage. Try the NEW
AOL.com.
(http://www.aol.com/?optin=new-dp&icid=aolcom40vanity&ncid=emlcntaolcom00000002)


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

It was fun! I didn't get to everything I wanted to read but I am already
looking forward to next year and have some stories/poems already in mind to
nominate! I will have to pace myself better next year so I can finish
everything! Hantanyel everyone!

Namarie, God bless, Antane :)

On Mon, 01 Dec 2008 02:07:02 -0000, "annmarwalk" <ann@marwalk.com> wrote:
> The remaining 590 reviews (!) will be posted by Wednesday evening. I
> plan to post twice a day, morning and evening, with four parts to each
> post. Thank you for your enthusiastic reviewage!
--
Visit my blog! http://theroadthroughmiddle-earth.blogspot.com

You've been incredible!! These must be by far the best organized
fanfiction awards on the net, and I can't believe how much effort
everyone puts in (staff, reviewers, etc.). It makes me feel really
bad that this year has been such a frantic one and I did not get
around to reading anything at all. :-(

Well, but there will always be next year! :-)

Once again: you are the greatest, everyone!!

Cheers,
Katzilla

Many, many thanks to those who reviewed my stories - and just as many apologies that I was such a poor reviewer this year.  I really don't know where the time went - I just don't seem to have had a moment.
 
Bodkin




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

Hi Lin,

This is a good suggestion. I'll discuss it with the other volunteers to
see if there's anything that can be done to make it easier to find the
story. I don't know what's possible, so I can't make any promises there
- but I will make sure we at least see what's possible.

In the mean time, the simplest way to find more about the story is the
story ID number, which is in the grey box in the top-left corner. For
instance, right now the random review is from Larner for #302, A Time to
Hope. If you click the "Browse All Nominated Stories" link just above
the review and then do a search for "302#", it will bring up all the
information on "A Time to Hope." Including the author's name (PipMer),
and the title is a link to where the story is posted at an archive.

Thanks,

Marta

BLJean@aol.com wrote:

>
>
> I went to the MEFA site this morning.
>
> As has happened in the past, I didn't get to *half* of the stories I
> wanted to. I loved the "wish list" feature, by the way, which made it
> easier to duck in and out and add a story to my "meaning to" list. I'm
> sure I reviewed more than I would have, without that feature.
>
> However, I do have a small suggestion--if I'm not misreading the site.
> This morning it is showing randomly selected reviews. Nice! However, I
> wanted to read a story that was reviewed, but I'm not sure how to find
> the story. It is identified by title, nominator, and reviewer (a
> clickable link, that leads to an "access denied" screen), but I don't
> see an indication of the author's name or where to find the story. Is
> there some "simple" click that is evading me? Or is a little tweak
> needed to let people find the story featured in the "random review"?
>
> Thanks,
> Lin
>

Hey guys,

Thank you (to everyone!) for your kind words. I am replying to
Katzilla's email but have everyone's posts in mind. I'm glad that you
find these awards well run and a positive experience; I find them
something that's worth working hard for, and I am far from the only one
to put in the leg work. I am sure they appreciate your gratitude as well.

As for those of you who may feel regret that you didn't review very
much, don't feel bad about that; but do feel free to do more in future
years. These awards typically have a "learning curve," where people hear
about the awards one year and then get increasingly involved in
subsequent years, so you are not the only person who has ever wanted to
do more than you got to. And then there are the old hands who for
whatever reason just didn't have the time in 2008, but may have more in
2009. That's fine, too.

Whatever your level of involvement, if you want to do things better,
you'll get a second chance in just a few months. In the meantime, why
not carry on the MEFA spirit of reviewing and go review a few stories at
your favorite archive? You may even find things you'd like to nominate
for 2009.

*hugs to all*

Marta

katberlin13 wrote:

>
>
>
> You've been incredible!! These must be by far the best organized
> fanfiction awards on the net, and I can't believe how much effort
> everyone puts in (staff, reviewers, etc.). It makes me feel really
> bad that this year has been such a frantic one and I did not get
> around to reading anything at all. :-(
>
> Well, but there will always be next year! :-)
>
> Once again: you are the greatest, everyone!!
>
> Cheers,
> Katzilla
>

Title: The Last Messenger: A Tale of Numenor · Author: Fiondil ·
Times: Second and Early Third Age · ID: 8
Reviewer: Radbooks · 2008-11-30 22:28:10 Score: 5
Spoilers!
A very interesting tale about an era and place that is not written
about often - Numenor. I truly enjoyed the characters; while they were
mostly original characters, Fiondil does a wonderful job of making
them appear as if they were Tolkien's - they integrate almost
seamlessly into Tolkien's world.

The story itself was dark, it takes place in the very end days of
Numenor and Fiondil was able to capture that very well in the sense of
foreboding that filled the pages of the story. It always makes me sad
to think of what happened on that beautiful island that the Valar had
set aside for Elros and his people and here some of that is shown
quite clearly.

A very well written story - as usual - and highly recommended.

Title: Five Things that Never Happened to Serinde of Dol Amroth ·
Author: SurgicalSteel · Genres: Alternate Universe: Angst/Tragedy ·
ID: 222
Reviewer: Cuthalion · 2008-11-30 22:28:46 Score: 10
Spoilers!
I encountered the "Five things that never happened to..."-concept
years ago, and I was immediately fascinated. It gives the author the
chance to visualize even his/ her worst phantasies, and if the author
is as skilled as Surgicalsteel, the result is absolutely thrilling.

What if Serinde's stepfather actually laid hands on her (as he tries
in both her timelines, the original and the "happy" one)? The outcome
might have been as grim as it is in # 1 of her "Five things"-tales...
and the readers finishes it with a great sigh of relief, because this
never took place. And what if she had met her ultimate fate on a
battlefield (as it might very well have happened?). What if Halbarad
and Serinde had never married - and if she had come in the way of five
of the Nine when they rode through Bree the night Frodo Baggins
accidentally put on the ring? And if the untimely birth of her third
child had taken not only one life but two?

As a reader, I am utterly thankful that she ends the dark row of "What
if's" with a completely believable happier note...and I can leave
those five AU's with a satisfied smile. No wonder that Surgicalsteel
is one of the (very few) authors who will always keep me a devoted
reader of Tolkien fanfiction. *bows to her*

Title: Answering the Call · Author: docmon · Genres: Drama · ID: 340
Reviewer: Antane · 2008-11-30 22:29:12 Score: 7
Spoilers!
A very interesting and at times heartaching series of tales, each
chapter dealing with what may have happened had each of the Fellowship
claimed the Ring for their own. Gandalf's is the most chilling.
Legolas perhaps the most heartbreaking, though that may be tied with
Frodo's because the new hobbit Lord of the Rings wannabe doesn't seem
to realize his terrible peril in claiming the Ring, though Sam does
and it breaks the loyal gardener's heart. Boromir's is well done -
that one realizes his folly only at the very end, as he truly did, and
he pays the price but perhaps was saved by it. Sam is not overcome,
but he takes the Ring out of love and pity and so is not corrupted by
it, but none of the tales end well, except the last. Gimli's is the
only chapter that has any hope left at the end and perhaps that is
because he did not lust after the Ring himself, but was given it to
Frodo in a desperate hope that the Quest not fail. It would be
wonderful if the tales that could be continued for all could be.

Title: Cuts Gone Wrong · Author: Dwimordene · Times: Mid Third Age:
Eriador · ID: 156
Reviewer: agape4gondor · 2008-11-30 22:31:59 Score: 3
Spoilers!
Not often does one read anything but Aragorn in Imladris and the
fostering of the boy into manhood.

I very much liked this look into Aragorn, the novice Ranger, and the
wisdom he learned from Men.

Thanks for sharing this look into the 'making' of a King.

Title: Restoration · Author: Branwyn (Lady Branwyn) · Races: Men:
Minas Tirith · ID: 19
Reviewer: Raksha the Demon · 2008-11-30 22:34:27 Score: 3
Spoilers!
The notion of Aragorn finding spiritual refreshment by checking his
recovering patients is lovely, and it seems very typical of Aragorn's
character. This is a wonderful, quiet moment of renewal, a calm
between storms. I love Aragorn's mention that for him and Faramir both
it is a time when marvels might come to pass.

Title: Dead Steward's Gift · Author: stefaniab · Genres: Mystery · ID: 572
Reviewer: agape4gondor · 2008-11-30 22:37:56 Score: 1
A delightful tale.

Title: Maglor's Harp · Author: Ford of Bruinen · Genres: Horror · ID: 660
Reviewer: Dwimordene · 2008-11-30 22:38:18 Score: 8
Spoilers!
Maglor stark raving mad would not be someone to encounter in a dark
alley. Absolutely innocent in his current mindlessness, and absolutely
horrific and without pity - Ford of Bruinen captures this beautifully.
She never goes for gratuitous gore - everything is very understated,
very matter-of-fact, which heightens the uncanny and disturbing heart
of the story more effectively than any detailed description of violence.

Madness, too, is well depicted. Maglor's thoughts never stray beyond
his end, never consider, reflect - he is out of the world as much as
he is out of himself. He has no ties and no bounds, save that one that
probably hasn't let him go - and that's what makes him dangerous.

As I write, I'm listening to Loreena McKennitt's [The Bonny Swans],
which strikes me as cut from the same mental cloth, as it were. The
bone harp, beautiful to hear, but a horror in fact, and one wonders:
if by some miracle, Maglor *does* sing himself back to sanity, what
will become of him and his harp?

Deliciously shivery and terrible, and I mean that in the best possible
way.

Title: The Dark One · Author: NeumeIndil · Genres: Drama · ID: 411
Reviewer: Cuthalion · 2008-11-30 22:41:25 Score: 6
Spoilers!
My goodness. What shall I say? What a tale... grim beauty and
horrendous pain (those poor people in the barn, that tormented, young
woman with the piglet), Théodred (whom I love here), Boromir (whom I'd
like to kick where it really hurts) and Morwen, dancing... DANCING.
The way you've written that from Gamling's POV is sheer beauty,
passionate and vivid, and I can see her move, and see the flames, and
smell the smoke, and sense the danger. But do you know what was worst?
Théoden, caressing her hands, barely understanding what was going on
around him, a shadow of lost greatness. Heaven help us, Gandalf can't
come soon enough. You made me cry with pity, and with shame for him,
and with sheer, furious rage against the worm.

Incredibly good... and after checking out what I missed on OSA, I
think I have to catch up with quite a few tales about one of the best
OFC's I've ever encountered in fanfiction.


Title: Silenced · Author: Illwynd · Genres: Horror · ID: 31
Reviewer: agape4gondor · 2008-11-30 22:41:50 Score: 3
Spoilers!
Very interesting take on the 'changes' that occur - not to Minas
Tirith - but to her Steward... or perhaps her King.....

Yikes - shades of Nosferatu. Very well written and quite scary.

Title: The Last Words · Author: Rhapsody · Genres: Drama: Featuring
the Noldor · ID: 409
Reviewer: Elleth · 2008-11-30 22:45:40 Score: 10
Spoilers!
Rhapsody, you have outdone yourself again - this final meeting of
Nerdanel and her inanimate nemesis is masterfully written from the
outset, and does not disappoint throughout. I loved the juxtaposition
of Nerdanel and her twin sons (most alike to her, as you mentioned in
the story) going to meet the three jewels of Feanor, it had an epic
quality and worked brilliantly to foreshadow the conflict to come,
even though Nerdanel had to face that one alone.

All the rage and grief that you express wonderfully here, it made me
wonder about Nerdanel's sanity a little - but I suppose it is taxing
to live with a man who is so demanding and appears to be giving back
so little (at least that is what it appears like here). The line
["Please, I beg of you! No matter the outcome! Do not destroy him!" ],
however, shows more clearly than any of Nerdanel's denials, that she
does still love her husband after all, and made me hope that the
reverse was true as well, like Mahtan said.

Rhapsody definitely doesn't disappoint with this story: She is
well-known for in-depth emotive writing and beautiful stories, but I
think this is one of her masterpieces, because it draws the reader in
completely and makes Nerdanel's complicated emotional state familiar
in a way, and easy to understand so that the audience cannot help but
sympathize with her. For all its bitterness, one of my favourite
stories. Thank you for sharing this.

Title: The Ritual Disturbed · Author: Larner · Genres: Horror · ID: 68
Reviewer: Dwimordene · 2008-11-30 22:48:04 Score: 4
Spoilers!
Very few stories tackle the barrow-wights, but Larner attempts it and
more besides! There is more to the wights and to one Tom Bombadil than
anyone knows, and Larner takes advantage of that to draw the whole
history of the long war between Morgoth and the Valar down into one
narrow tomb.

Well done! I especially loved this line for its wonderful description
of the relationship of Arda and the beyond: [These did not so much
pass the boundaries that held the evil spirits as they simply went
otherwise, somewhat at right angles from all visible bounds].

Title: NIGHT and FOREST: A Glimpse of Beauty · Author: Fiondil ·
Times: First Age and Prior · ID: 554
Reviewer: agape4gondor · 2008-11-30 22:50:05 Score: 3
Spoilers!
A delightful tale of the first meeting of Beren and Luthien.

Wow - I was really surprised - it seemed this Elf's only fate would be
death....

I really have to laugh - for death eventually came - it seems not
once, but twice.

A very good retelling of the life before Beren met Luthien - and I'd
love to read more.

Title: The Blessing of the Waters · Author: Raksha the Demon · Genres:
Romance: Other Fixed-Length Ficlets · ID: 61
Reviewer: agape4gondor · 2008-11-30 22:55:31 Score: 5
Spoilers!
Last review for the year! And a very good tale to end this wondrous
year of stories with.

I have not paid much attention to Celeborn - until of late - when he
entered my thoughts and demanded some time away from the Men of Gondor.

I loved this tale - one of love between two whose lives and lineage
span the lifetime of Arda and perhaps before (not really to 'up' on
the First Age)....

I loved the theme of the water that flowed through it... and the
moment that was savored. I found it very uplifting to think that
Celeborn could be thankful at such a moment.

Nicely written.

Title: Leaving Home · Author: annmarwalk · Races: Men: Steward's
Family · ID: 39
Reviewer: obsidianj · 2008-11-30 22:59:38 Score: 3
This was not what I expected from the summary, but nevertheless very
enjoyable read. 'Distinguished visitors'. Ha, no wonder Elboron is
confused. These two won't fit anything he knows about adults and
important people. I loved the ending which revealed the reason that
Eowyn gave Elboron leave for his big adventure.

Title: Hammer · Author: Aranel Took · Races: Dwarves: Drabbles · ID: 468
Reviewer: agape4gondor · 2008-11-30 22:59:53 Score: 1
Spoilers!
Absolutely hysterical. A 'new' pick-up line!

Title: MAGIC: The Password · Author: Fiondil · Genres: Humor: Elven
Lands · ID: 451
Reviewer: Dwimordene · 2008-11-30 23:01:29 Score: 9
Spoilers!
Every so often, someone manages to fit modern technology into
Middle-earth in surreally hysterical fashion, and one is left wishing
one did not have a roommate trying to write a term paper five steps
away, because then it would be possible to laugh appropriately instead
of simply biting one's tongue.

The language of the messages is one part polite formalism, one
absolutely mundane question that just screams "Here we go again..."
and "Bite your tongue or I'll step on it if you mention the fact that
we're going through this *again*". It works perfectly. The nostalgic
reflections on magic keys and ignoring the sage advice of certain
wizards, as well as Thranduil's list of things he can remember
(apparently even in Middle-earth, remembering your anniversary is a
feat) just build the sense of anticipation until you're ready to
burst. Radagast's opening response and Thranduil's much aggrieved
response are classic.

Throughout it, his Queen maintains that serene calmness that allows
her to play the deadpan foil to her husband's frustrated outbursts.
The toilet line was particularly priceless.

Highly recommended!

Title: Call of the Wild · Author: annmarwalk · Genres: Romance:
Drabbles · ID: 94
Reviewer: Elen Kortirion · 2008-11-30 23:03:48 Score: 3
Spoilers!
Here is such a wonderfully charged moment of first meeting. The reader
is propelled into that room as a witness to that initial eye to eye
contact that crackles with sexual attraction. I love the phrases used
[He is a man made for leather, not silk] and also [...glory calls us
in the echo of a faraway battle-horn.] This last sentance is such a
perfect evocation or Morwen Steelsheen's character. I loved it.


Title: My Sword Weeps · Author: agape4gondor · Genres: Drama:
Featuring Boromir or Faramir · ID: 316
Reviewer: Linaewen · 2008-11-30 23:07:09 Score: 10
This is such an amazing tale, it really does make me weep – not simply
because it has its moments of sorrow, but also because it is so
beautifully and gloriously epic! That kind of tale makes me cry every
time. What is amazing about this story in particular, is that it is so
familiar in many ways, and yet also very much new and unexpected. The
characters are ones the reader knows well, and through this tale the
reader gets to know these familiar characters even better and more
fully and deeply. But the reader soon discovers that these inhabitants
of Middle-earth are dealing with different situations, different
conflicts, different sorrows than the ones a reader of Tolkien has
grown accustomed to. That is what makes this story so appealing and
fresh; it is most definitely a brand new tale involving our favorite
people, coping with new adventures and new friendships, even while
dealing with the same enemies.

There are new, original characters in this tale, as well, and they are
marvelous! Each one is very true to the spirit and style of Tolkien
himself, and it always surprises me to not find them within the pages
of Tolkien's works.

I love the ending of this story especially. The previous tale in this
series ended with a shocking death and an intolerable loss – but the
poignant and touching way this sequel ends consoles me in that loss.
It is beautifully written and fittingly brings me to weeping, because
it is so lovely!

The entire story is one of adventure and suspense, of loss and of
salvation, and it is definitely a tale to be read more than once and
savored.


Title: Fatherhood · Author: annmarwalk · Genres: Humor: Drabbles · ID: 547
Reviewer: Elen Kortirion · 2008-11-30 23:09:47 Score: 5
Spoilers!
This is perhaps a unique moment, in fact I am sure I have never read
this scene before in fandom. The Prince of Dol Amroth rings very true
in his characterization, a loving father concerned for his daughter's
future - but also a statesman, prepared to consider what will be the
best thing for his country. Here in a wonderful feat of pragmatism,
both possible outcomes are considered and a very possible solution found.

It is a beautifully realised drabble that while being original and
complete in itself, also encourages the reader to think about the
possible machinations that did go on in Middle-earth when the subject
of marriage arose.

Title: Seven Sisters · Author: Pearl Took · Races: Other Beings · ID: 388
Reviewer: agape4gondor · 2008-11-30 23:11:53 Score: 2
Spoilers!
Wow - macabre tale of a wish answered. Not one would truly wish for -
just one wished in the midst of anger. Thankfully, the wish, though
seemed to be fulfilled, was not.

Well written.

Title: Star's End · Author: Keiliss · Races: Elves: House of Elrond ·
ID: 283
Reviewer: red lasbelin · 2008-11-30 23:13:19 Score: 10
This is an absolutely incredible story that flows from start to finish
in a natural, powerful (but not overwhelming, or unsubtle), haunting
way. I've never totally connected with either character, Arwen or
Maglor, but in this, it doesn't matter. The storytelling is so well
done and the characters are vivid, complete as a painting, you will
connect with them.

Maglor is who he is, not making excuses or being defensive, and he
brings a wisdom and surprising comfort to Arwen's journey. Arwen is
beautiful and graceful, the incarnation of Luthien it is said, and
with this version I believed. Still there's an aching sorrow,
underneath her grace, something underlined for me very strongly when
she talks about no longer hearing the voice of the trees.

The description of Lorien is stunning, fading into the forest,
returning to a natural state as it was before the Elves came. It's an
unsaid illusion to Arwen's own end, a mortal one - dust to dust. A
frightening one, entirely unknown, in many respects unnatural for her
race.

Two very unlikely traveling companions and a journey, an end of a
journey for one. Never forced or too melodramatic, Keiliss is a
storyteller first, and a writer second. They never are just words.

Title: Journey's End · Author: Ignoble Bard · Times: Fourth Age and
Beyond: Fixed-Length Ficlets · ID: 234
Reviewer: obsidianj · 2008-11-30 23:13:46 Score: 3
Spoilers!
This drabble describes the moment of reunion in just a few words, but
there is a wealth of emotion in it. This is the culmination of all
Aragorn and Arwen worked for. Finally, they are together without any
care in the world.

Title: Duty, Honour, Country · Author: Rhapsody · Races: Elves: Other
Fixed-Length Ficlets · ID: 81
Reviewer: Keiliss · 2008-11-30 23:14:13 Score: 10
Spoilers!
I liked the quote above the story.

This was a very thoughtful introspective on what it must have been
like to know what things look like from the outside to people who find
it all too easy to get lost in the detail of high drama, of oaths and
rebellion and blood on swords. Too easy to overlook things like
natural decency and a desire to always do the right and honourable
thing, to risk all for those who look to one for aid and protection.

I have always assumed that Feanor's sons followed their father from
love and from a sense of family bonds, of standing together, and
respect for their parent. I think we bring what we know to what we
read, and I live in Africa and am exposed to traditions that insist
that even adult children should never dispute a father's decisions but
instead support him in whatever he chooses to do, not blindly but out
of love and respect, so – [honour and duty] make sense to me.

The final piece though, I really loved. No Maglor dolefully wandering
the shores of a world that knows him not, endlessly lamenting his
mistakes, but one who has made what he can of what life has offered
him and still watches and guards against any return of darkness. I
liked this concept very much, and want to go away and think more about it.


Title: Dead Steward's Gift · Author: stefaniab · Genres: Mystery · ID: 572
Reviewer: Inkling · 2008-11-30 23:14:55 Score: 5
Spoilers!
A ripping good tale of suspense and mystery--or, depending on whom you
listen to, an adventure populated by mice, rats, and a first-rate
whisker cleaner. Faramir makes a fine Holmes, with his black cat Cirri
as a tension-breaking Watson. And casting Denethor as a neat freak not
only ties up the plot's loose ends but seems oddly in character for
the stern Steward. Moody, atmospheric details set the stage
beautifully for this almost-ghost story, and the visions of the
Palantir are well worth the wait: exhilarating and magical. Well done,
Steff!



Title: Dorwinion Wine · Author: Lindelea · Races: Cross-Cultural · ID: 663
Reviewer: Linda Hoyland · 2008-11-30 23:15:28 Score: 2
Spoilers!
It was delightful to see Bilbo through the eyes of an Elven
minstrel.It seems that even Elves get rather the worst for wear
sometimes!A charming story.

Title: Five Hair Care Tips for Rohirrim · Author: EdorasLass · Genres:
Humor · ID: 71
Reviewer: elfscribe · 2008-11-30 23:16:59 Score: 3
I enjoyed this humorous little piece. After seeing TTT again recently,
I'm struck anew by how badly the Rohirrim need this essay. It should
be printed up and airdropped over Rohan. Loved the snarky tone. [This
may seem obvious, but judging by the state of certain Riders' hair,
apparently it's not.] [Rohirric braids are manly, useful things, which
are useful in manly ways.]

I never knew before how Theodred got so many babes. Conditioner is it?
Oh and yes *that.* LOL.

Title: Rekindling · Author: Dawn Felagund · Times: Fourth Age and
Beyond · ID: 255
Reviewer: Elleth · 2008-11-30 23:17:29 Score: 10
Spoilers!
I requested the end of the world and the meeting of Feanor and
Nerdanel set among it - and while the story certainly did not turn out
the way I had imagined it might, it could not have been done
differently or more perfectly. There is so much I want to say to this,
and all that comes out is 'wow' - in part, definitely vanity: 'Look,
people, this absolutely brilliant story was written at MY request, and
look how utterly gorgeous Dawn did it!' - and my other half? Close to
bursting into tears like I did the first time reading it, and bawling
like a baby. But enough of that.

It's close to the end of the world, and Nerdanel is planting trees as
she is whisked away for a final meeting with her husband, who has
unexpectedly been returned to life. There is a battle, the sun and the
moon collide, and eventually the survivors assemble for the breaking
of the Silmarils, for Arda Remade - and for Nerdanel's ultimate loss:
The Silmarils are broken, and he is slain, apparently beyond return.
And why? He does it for Nerdanel. And that is the whole secret - from
the mundane action of Nerdanel planting trees, to the great, and back
to the mundane among it: It is the end of the world, the Dagor
Dagorath has been fought, and all Feanor and Nerdanel know that moment
are each other, and Feanor makes himself the ultimate sacrifice to
save his wife from any greater grief - and is successful.
The mixture is perfect, action and development and juxtapositions and
symbolism, and an end that shows rather than tells how Arda is healed:
Despite the ultimate loss, Nerdanel is not made to suffer in
bitterness, terrible though her loss has been. And that is the end of
it, and I am dissolving into tears yet again. (Reading stories for
reviewing is making me cry quite a lot today, but if anything that is
a nod to the respective authors; I am not usually that weepy.)

Dawn, I cannot thank you enough for this story, and wish I could say
more to give [Rekindling] a higher score than 10, but as that is not
possible, I'll stop now - just let me repeat again how absolutely
blown away I was by this piece of writing and how much I love the
story. Thank you.

Title: The Waker · Author: Nancy Brooke · Races: Villains:
Fixed-Length Ficlets · ID: 287
Reviewer: Linda Hoyland · 2008-11-30 23:19:30 Score: 3
Spoilers!
This unusual drabble was very thought provoking and chilling.I liked
the idea the The watcher might be a sentient creature and even felt a
little sympathy for it,a mark of good writing.

Title: Too Many Rangers · Author: Larner · Races: Hobbits · ID: 116
Reviewer: Linaewen · 2008-11-30 23:20:20 Score: 3
This story was so much fun to read! I loved how cleverly the different
rangers were woven into the tale, making it very plausible while also
being quite humorous. Too many rangers, indeed!

A most excellent tale, one that made me laugh out loud a number of
times. I shall be reading this one more than once, and recommending it
to others, as well.

Title: Bitter Sweet · Author: annmarwalk · Genres: Alternate Universe:
Steward's Family · ID: 536
Reviewer: Elen Kortirion · 2008-11-30 23:22:02 Score: 5
Spoilers!
Ah yes, bitter-sweet indeed. The possible non-canon but fannishly
desirable relationship between two heroes that Professor Tolkien
decided to dispense with - having done their service to the main tale
- has long been a source of stories that the author and several others
have mulled over. To the point where a plethora of undeed! Boromir and
undead!Theodred stories are extant in the particular corner of fandom
that I know the author occupies with grace, talent, and a writerly eye
for a good tale as yet untold. This is a lovely, gentle tale of
honourable men and what might have happened had neither been killed
within days of each other in canon - personnaly - I far prefer this
version of events!

Title: Where Shadows Lay No More · Author: Cathleen · Times: Fourth
Age and Beyond · ID: 358
Reviewer: agape4gondor · 2008-11-30 23:22:08 Score: 4
Spoilers!
Hooray! Hooray! What a blessing for the Fellowship and for Boromir.

I saw loved this moment - Boromir seeing the fulfillment of his wish
for his beloved land, knowing that his friends live and remember him
and have done what he could not do - save his people.

I certainly hope that those who have passed before us can 'see' us and
rejoice in our lives.

This was a beautiful look into what might be.

Title: Answering the Call · Author: docmon · Genres: Drama · ID: 340
Reviewer: Inkling · 2008-11-30 23:22:18 Score: 3
A fascinating and disturbing series of what-ifs...with Gandalf's
somehow all the more so for being presented entirely through uneasy
conversations. In one of Tolkien's letters he described Gandalf in
possession of the Ring as ultimately making good seem more loathsome
than evil...and this vignette picks up on that idea, I think. Nicely done!


Title: Labour Pains · Author: Aratlithiel · Genres: Humor: Shire · ID: 483
Reviewer: Dwimordene · 2008-11-30 23:23:36 Score: 6
Spoilers!
One imagines that this is a story that only someone who has given
birth or been in Frodo's position could possibly write.

Aratlithiel hits all the hightlights of hormonal swings, mood swings,
anxiety, and the merciless ironies of bad timing as she depicts Frodo
Baggins, Ringbearer and savior of the world thereby, the hobbit who
has been stabbed by Nazgûl and bitten by Gollum, thoroughly and
utterly cowed and beaten by the travails of Rosie's pregnancy. Sam,
too, in fact, which is how Frodo ended up in his position of hapless
and clueless male support. I particularly loved this exchange:

["Gardening emergency."

Sam nodded and swung his cloak about his shoulders. "Aye, sir."

"You've made that up," Frodo told him. "There is no such thing as a
gardening emergency."

Sam stopped in the act of reaching down for his pack, peered at Frodo
with wide, innocent eyes. "O'course there is, sir, else I'd not have
said it."

Frodo's eyes narrowed further and he crossed his arms over his chest.
"Pansies running amok and threatening the neighbours, are they?"]

Personally, I would love to see pansies run amok and hold up the
neighbors - if trees can do it in Tolkien's world, why not flowers?
But it's just the start of the entertainingly undignified travails of
Frodo Ringbearer. The last lines - priceless.

Title: Merry on the Pelennor Fields · Author: Primsong · Genres:
Poetry: Drama · ID: 720
Reviewer: Linda Hoyland · 2008-11-30 23:24:21 Score: 3
Spoilers!
A beautiful and heart-rending lament for the fallen Theoden and
Snowmane.It was nice to see the horse remembered as well as Merry's
touching description of Eowyn.Another treasure that I have discovered
through these awards!

Title: Midwinter Thoughts · Author: Rhapsody · Races: Elves: Noldor
Fixed-Length Ficlets · ID: 570
Reviewer: Keiliss · 2008-11-30 23:24:41 Score: 5
Spoilers!
I've bookmarked this to read a few more times because I just love the
slightly tired, introspective, melancholy air to it. He feels very
real, sitting there thinking his thoughts and realising he will never
manage to write them down and get the words to say what he wants them
to. I got a good picture of life in that stronghold as winter closed
in, of people drawing together as is the way of things, finding warmth
in one another. It feels sad and yet the ending has an almost hopeful
feeling - if he gets to speak to her first, if someone else hasn't
already asked her to dance, if he can just stop worrying about how to
do it and say those words so simply and honestly...




Title: Reflections in the Smoke · Author: Raksha the Demon · Times:
Late Third Age: General Fixed-Length Ficlets · ID: 294
Reviewer: Cuthalion · 2008-11-30 23:26:20 Score: 4
Spoilers!
Good gracious, what a gem! One often forgets that Gandalf is a Maia
himself, and that a weight of countless years lifts him high above
those he has cared for all that endless time. But this tales lets the
reader come to the realization that Narya is more than just a red
stone glowing on an old wizard's finger - he is Olórin, too, he is
made of different stuff than even Aragorn who can lead the line of his
blood back to Númenor. That was - as Samwise Gamgee would have said -
a true eye-opener. *smiles*

Title: Utúlie'n Aurë · Author: Nieriel Raina · Genres: Drama: General
Fixed-Length Ficlets · ID: 163
Reviewer: Linaewen · 2008-11-30 23:27:25 Score: 5
Spoilers!
This story was beautiful! I could hardly finish reading it for the
tears in my eyes. One tends to forget in the glory of the moment of
the destruction of the Ring of Power that there were other times when
victory was snatched away -- and Glorfindel would certainly remember
such times. I love the idea that he knew immediately, it makes so much
sense to me.

I also love having Erestor in this tale, as Glorfindel's friend who
joins him in reminiscing and rejoicing. I have always had a soft spot
in my heart for Erestor, thought I don't know why! It is nice to see
him here, and it made me smile to think of him as a toddler, too!

Thank you for this lovely tale.

Title: Keep Him Secret, Keep Him Safe · Author: shirebound · Races:
Hobbits: Incomplete · ID: 643
Reviewer: Linda Hoyland · 2008-11-30 23:29:06 Score: 4
Spoilers!
This is a lovely heart warming story concerning a theme I wish more
writers would explore,how Aragorn was effected by all his great
deeds,which indeed was the subject of my own very first story,albeit
more gruesomely.In this story,we see Aragorn collapse with exhaustion
at Cormallen and be nursed back to health by the twins and the
Hobbits. I Eagerly awaited every chapter of this and enjoyed Frodo and
Aragorn's friendship and seeing Aragorn receive the care he so
deserves after lavishing it on others.

Title: Full Brothers in Blood · Author: Oshun · Genres: Humor · ID: 212
Reviewer: pandemonium_213 · 2008-11-30 23:29:15 Score: 6
Spoilers!
In [Full Brothers in Blood], Oshun takes the reader back to Tirion
where young Turukáno (Turgon) diligently works on a composition and
hears his older brother, Findekáno (Fingon) arrive with his boisterous
cousin, Tyelkormo (Celegorm). From there the reader is led into the
home of Nolofinwë and Anairë, thanks to Oshun's characterizations and
knack for setting and dialogue. She draws the distinctive
personalities of the two brothers, elder and younger, very well in
this short story. The details are great -- the whole issue of eating
seafood, which Turgon abhors (oh, the irony of this boy who will
become ruler of Vinyamar) and Celegorm's braying laugh or shriek like
a monkey, a sly and funny nod to Tyelkormo's predisposition to
speaking to the beasts. The descriptions are so vivid that I felt as
if I were sitting at the table for the dinner on a wam evening.

A fine story that illustrates family dynamics!

Title: A Cat in King Elessar's Court · Author: agape4gondor · Races:
Cross-Cultural: Friendship · ID: 66
Reviewer: Inkling · 2008-11-30 23:29:32 Score: 5
A marvelous tale, starting with the terrific OC feline narrator. I
love Alqua's fierce loyalty, not just to Denethor but to Gondor. So
often it's dogs that are portrayed as loyal, while cats are written as
somewhat selfish and out for themselves. And I love how informed he
is, even to the strategies of the enemy in keeping help away from the
city. A cat to be reckoned with...

Agape's Denethor is also wonderful, and to my mind completely
canonical. Tolkien's Denethor was such a complex, fascinating, and
intelligent character...not the boorish jerk of the film.

A highly original, well written gap-filler from a most unusual
perspective.


Title: Best Three Falls, No Gouging · Author: Brigantine · Genres:
Humor: Gondor · ID: 587
Reviewer: Dwimordene · 2008-11-30 23:29:46 Score: 3
Spoilers!
What happened to the "no gouging" part of the title?

Not to say that Faramir isn't worth fighting for, but one would think
that Eomer at least would take care to ensure that he'd be able to
make good on the reward if he won. As it is...

Amusing!

Title: Sharing Good News · Author: Imhiriel · Genres: Humor: Drabbles
· ID: 216
Reviewer: Linda Hoyland · 2008-11-30 23:31:20 Score: 3
Spoilers!
A truly delightful friendship drabble concerning Bilbo and Aragorn. I
can just imagine the Ranger wanting to tell Bilbo the good news that
Arwen loves him! The depiction of the weather is especially vivid.

Title: Footsteps in Time · Author: Keiliss · Races: Elves · ID: 76
Reviewer: red lasbelin · 2008-11-30 23:32:24 Score: 10
This was a really fascinating read, something that defied conventional
Galadriel/Celeborn stories and also genre constraints....Romance and
drama all with a very liberal dose of adventure.

I liked how she worked her way through their history. She brings an
attention to canon that is never militaristic in nature or uncreative,
rather she weaves her own stories around the existing threads with a
respect and love.

Galadriel here is the star of the story - she's stubborn, strong,
feminine in the truest sense of the word, and she is one of the best
female characters written that I've read in fanfiction. Don't even
like her all the time, but she is definitely herself.

Though from what you see of Celeborn, he is a match for his wife, but
not in a way that clashes with her, instead I see more of how they
compliment each other with their differences. The scene where they
meet for the first time and he wants to touch her hair has always
stuck with me, quietly geniune.

Two other things that deserve mention is her Melian, a true definition
of a scene stealer - fey and wild, vivid and striking, otherworldly -
and the introduction of Galadriel's nephew, future king Ereinion
Gil-galad.

All in all, a stunning story.



Title: One Last Wish · Author: Dawn Felagund · Times: First Age and
Prior: House of Finwe · ID: 323
Reviewer: Elleth · 2008-11-30 23:32:56 Score: 10
Spoilers!
Poignant and bitter and heartbreaking, [One Last Wish] presents to the
reader a possible version of how the eventual estrangement of Feanor
and Nerdanel came to pass. The author, Dawn Felagund, is a well-known
'Feanorian' and a great writer, a coming together these two traits
create an exquisitely sorrowful tale that shows deep insight into
canon material and the craft of writing both. Like leitmotifs to
emphasize the significance of certain passages (though no word here is
superfluous or out of place): the sound of the forge door, the broken
latch that cannot keep it closed, the leaves rushing in, the idea of
going back in time to undo what has been done all guide the reader
through the story.

In her final chance for reconciliation, Nerdanel chooses selfishness
(if you can justify to call it that) over sacrificing herself to her
husband's cause; she refuses to create another child with him that he
hopes may fix their relationship, and is left. A year later, the
period it takes from conception to birth for the Eldar, Nerdanel is
back in the forge and left alone, and wishing for a second chance -
but that is not all there is to the story. In glimpses and flickers
and fragments, Dawn shows episodes from the marriage of Feanor and
Nerdanel, and furthers understanding of how it could come this far.
She establishes a profound sense of sympathy for Nerdanel and makes
her final decision all the more understandable, but no less
heartbreaking, and weaves everything together into a tightly-spun
whole that is a delight to read and re-read. I keep coming back to the
story and discover something new, and Dawn's evocative, picturesque
style certainly does nothing to distract the reader, but rather adds
another layer to the whole. I wish I could write like this.

Title: The Clear Ringing Of Silver Trumpets · Author: Lithilien
Quicksilver · Genres: Drama: Featuring Boromir or Faramir · ID: 278
Reviewer: Linaewen · 2008-11-30 23:33:32 Score: 3
I have always loved this tale by Lithilien Quicksilver. It is very
much the story of Boromir's struggle as seen in the film, and yet Lith
retells it so very beautifully. We see into Boromir's mind and heart,
and are able to go away knowing he died well with his hope intact, and
that takes all the sorrow at the loss of Boromir away and makes me smile.

Title: Care to Ride My Hot-Rod Fell Beast? · Author: viv · Genres:
Humor: Other Fixed-Length Ficlets · ID: 180
Reviewer: Dwimordene · 2008-11-30 23:33:37 Score: 2
It is indeed a harsh, harsh world when your innuendos lead to death
and disintegration. Maybe Angmar should have tried the titular line
instead...?

Title: Tonight We Are Alive · Author: Eyborg · Races: Dwarves · ID: 504
Reviewer: Linda Hoyland · 2008-11-30 23:34:30 Score: 3
Spoilers!
An interesting and rare glimpse of a Dwarf's home life,something
rarely seen in fanfiction. Kili is my favourite of all the Dwarfs in
the Hobbit. It is poignant to read this well told story,knowing that
Killi will die.


Title: Sing All Ye People! · Author: Raksha the Demon · Times: Late
Third Age: Gondor · ID: 249
Reviewer: Cuthalion · 2008-11-30 23:34:41 Score: 4
Spoilers!
Yet another brilliantly beautiful tale I discover by this author, now
that the voting season is nearly over. That scene with Faramir and
Éowyn has always been one of my favorite bookverse moments, and the
author makes me see the eagles, makes me hear the voices that ring in
Faramir's heart, and - what is most important - makes me feel his
disbelieving joy. Simply great. Wow.

Title: One Summer Day · Author: annmarwalk · Genres: Humor: Gondor ·
ID: 535
Reviewer: Elen Kortirion · 2008-11-30 23:35:08 Score: 6
Spoilers!
These four ficlets provide a wonderful evocation of summer's past,
idyllic days of hot sun, wonderful food, and honest toil out in a
garden - all lovingly described in spare detail that hits just the
right note everytime. Boromir the Gardener might be unexpected, but
why not? It adds a richness to his character and when so well written
as here, it is utterly believable. Faramir, loving brother and
assistant pot-boy, what a very suitable adjunct to his personality, as
is the 'fact' that the Prince of Dol Amroth is an excellent cook and
loves a good cook-out on the beach. And finally the author's original
character Mag the Cook, doyen of many stories, a wonderful invention
now as well-rounded as any canon character with her own backstory and
views on the lives of the denizens of both the citadel of Minis Tirith
and the citizens of the Circles

Title: Pippin-Frog For A Day · Author: Neilia · Genres: Alternate
Universe: Incomplete · ID: 115
Reviewer: Antane · 2008-11-30 23:35:17 Score: 3
Spoilers!
How terrible for Pip-frog! But better for all of us to know ahead of
time that he's going to be all right. Love Gandalf's 'answer' to
Merry's question about turning him back into a hobbit early. Pippin
must really be sorry if he's going to give Merry all his afters for a
week or two. *hugs* *hugs Pip-frog*

Title: Unwilling · Author: Elena Tiriel · Races: Elves: Drabbles · ID: 64
Reviewer: pandemonium_213 · 2008-11-30 23:36:14 Score: 3
I'm impressed with those who have mastery of the short form, and Elen
Tiriel is among the best. This is a succinct, searing indictment from
an Avor to Man's lack of stewardship of the earth, tying the ancient
world of those who remained in Middle-earth to our contemporary times
with a sad subtle coda.



Title: Blood and Iron · Author: Ribby · Races: Elves: Drabbles · ID: 122
Reviewer: Elleth · 2008-11-30 23:37:57 Score: 3
Spoilers!
Striking, in every sense of the words. The language is poetical and
beautiful, and the author established a rhythm in this that reads more
like poetry than a drabble: I can hear the hammerfalls as Elrond
reforges the blade, throughout the story, and I can almost see the
blood on the sword. And the hope, of course. Very evocative writing,
and beautifully done.

Title: Pippin's Secret · Author: shirebound · Races: Hobbits:
Friendship · ID: 599
Reviewer: Linaewen · 2008-11-30 23:38:55 Score: 3
This was such a sweet story about Pippin! I can well imagine him
having such a secret, and being so faithful at keeping it as well.
He's a very special hobbit, and I'm glad to see that Gandalf realizes
that, as well.

Title: An Elf-lord Revealed · Author: Tanaqui · Times: Multi-Age:
Fixed-Length Ficlets · ID: 406
Reviewer: Linda Hoyland · 2008-11-30 23:39:13 Score: 4
Spoilers!
I'm not a big fan of Elves,but these drablles brought Glorfindel alive
to me as never before.I especially liked his bewilderment on finding
himself reborn and his encounter with Faramir.I often wonder what it
would be like to meet people out of legend.Faramir knows the answer to
that! it was also fascinating to read about Glorfindel and Gandalf
comparing Balrogs!

Title: Of Cake and Crumbs and Distant Dreams · Author: Lindelea ·
Races: Hobbits: Hurt/Comfort · ID: 688
Reviewer: Inkling · 2008-11-30 23:39:30 Score: 2
Spoilers!
I love this charming and poignant post-Quest vignette in which Frodo,
for once, is the comforter, telling his cousin a lovely hobbity fairy
tale. Very nice, Lin!

Title: Frodos Dremes · Author: Gentle Hobbit · Genres: Drama:
Featuring Frodo or Sam · ID: 235
Reviewer: Antane · 2008-11-30 23:41:12 Score: 3
A very interesting set of dreams - or in some cases, nightmares, and
in some cases, only things that could happen in dreams. Frodo
certainly did have some interesting ones and this is a good
exploration of them.

Title: Possessing the greatest powers · Author: Tanaqui · Times:
Multi-Age: Fixed-Length Ficlets · ID: 387
Reviewer: pandemonium_213 · 2008-11-30 23:41:13 Score: 4
Spoilers!
As a writer who takes a keen interest in Rings and Ringmakers, I loved
this series of ficlets from Tanaqui which describes in beautiful prose
the aspects of each of the Three Elven Rings, weaving in their
characteristics according to Air, Fire and Water, and the reactions of
their bearers when the One was destroyed. The final words in the
ficlet about Narya, the Ring of Fire, look forward to a new hope. Very
nice, Tanaqui!

Title: To See A World · Author: Nightwing · Genres: Adventure:
Incomplete · ID: 330
Reviewer: agape4gondor · 2008-11-30 23:41:46 Score: 6
Spoilers!
I'm hoping that, once the author sees the response of the readers,
this story will finally be completed. I have been a loyal follower for
a long time and sit and wait, impatiently, for the completion.

A powerful tale of a wounded Elf in the midst of a terrible struggle -
within himself - and within the world about him. And his friend and
companion, Aragorn, suffers both in body and in spirit during the
trials these two must face.

Is there hope for healing for Legolas? Can the perpetrator of his
mother's murder be brought to justice? Will the people these two meet
be saved along with their village?

A trying time for all - characters and readers alike - this is a
nail-biting, stomach-wrenching tale that clearly needs some
resolution.....

Hint Hint Hint

Great writing - great characters - great landscapes - Glad I found
this before voting ends!!!!

Title: Unwilling · Author: Elena Tiriel · Races: Elves: Drabbles · ID: 64
Reviewer: Elleth · 2008-11-30 23:42:28 Score: 4
Spoilers!
One of the Avari mourns the loss of his Middle-earth to Men, and the
abominations committed on nature. A very contemporary and alarming
drabble for all its fantasy background: It could easily have happened
this way. The vanishing Avari and the falling dewdrop gain such
significance here, seeing how the Eldar are bound to waters of all
kinds and both go unnoticed. I liked this very much, and will
certainly make sure to watch a little better in the future - who knows
what we might otherwise miss.

Title: Home · Author: Aranel Took · Races: Dwarves: Drabbles · ID: 533
Reviewer: pandemonium_213 · 2008-11-30 23:44:54 Score: 4
Aranel has such a great sense of humor and it surely shows in the
punchline of this neat little fic from Gimli's viewpoint as he
considers his new home in the Glittering Caves. For such a short
piece, Aranel's word choices are so evocative. I formed a picture
right away of the new community.

Aranel has set her talents to the DC 'verse, which is immensely
entertaining, but I hope she continues to visit Middle-earth, too.

Title: Gone Amiss · Author: Raksha the Demon · Genres: Drama: Ring War
Drabbles · ID: 44
Reviewer: Linaewen · 2008-11-30 23:45:06 Score: 4
Spoilers!
This is beautiful! Aragorn's final moments with Boromir surely must
have been exactly like this; I can well imagine Aragorn responding in
this way, with sorrow at the loss, with regret over what could have
been, and with dismay as to how he was going to break the news. We
know that he rises to the task when the time comes, but at this
moment, he truly is at a loss, and dismayed at how things have gone
amiss, in spite of his best efforts.

Title: Confidence · Author: annmarwalk · Races: Men: Minas Tirith · ID: 38
Reviewer: Elen Kortirion · 2008-11-30 23:47:20 Score: 7
Spoilers!
The author has a rich and wonderful talent for creating very real,
well-rounded and believable original characters. She looks for the
seemingly small tasks that might often be considered to be perhaps
mundane in Middle-earth's world of grand quests and heroes, but out of
these rough, earthy nuggets she creates polished jewels of prose about
living, breathing people of the most familiar three-dimensional kind,
people we feel we could get to know.

The reader can relate to them because we can easily imagine what a
cook, or a barber or a young man nervous about their first important
job for the big boss might feel. The fact that her original characters
fit perfectly seamlessly into Tolkien's world of is a triumph of his
art in making the world so rich, and her talent in that she knows the
world well enough to play there, and to convincingly take the reader
with her.

Well done, I am so very, very fond of these 'extra' folk of Minas Tirith.

Title: Second Best · Author: Tanaqui · Races: Men: Gondor Drabbles ·
ID: 384
Reviewer: Raksha the Demon · 2008-11-30 23:47:36 Score: 3
Spoilers!
Here's a trompe-l'oeil of a drabble; leading the reader down one path
to finish on a parallel track, but the connection is inevitable.
Tanaqui's perceptions are wonderful and credible and bittersweet.

Title: A Smile · Author: Aria · Races: Elves: House of Finwe · ID: 321
Reviewer: Elleth · 2008-11-30 23:48:04 Score: 5
A very deep, fascinating story about Curufin's smile, coming to a
conclusion that I would never have considered, but that makes perfect
sense. Beautiful writing, a strong grasp on the source material, and a
very believable Curufin who is not simply painted as one of the great
villains of the Eldar in Beleriand, but (also) a father. The balance
is delicate, but all the more effective for the risk of slipping.
Stirring, thought-provoking and multi-layered: I will definitely come
back to re-read this and perhaps understand this story a little
better. Thank you for sharing this, Aria, and good luck. You deserve
to win something with this story.

Title: The Dancing Lesson · Author: Lindelea · Races: Hobbits:
Friendship · ID: 664
Reviewer: Antane · 2008-11-30 23:48:43 Score: 3
Spoilers!
That was fun! I am much more inclined to agree with Frodo - I'd much
rather stay at home and read and write! But in Frodo's case, that
would leave the lasses terribly disappointed so Bilbo's fun way of
teaching his heart's son how to dance. Worked also! Love also Frodo
pointing out why the duster was dusty.

Title: Feelings of Superiority · Author: Gwynnyd · Times: Multi-Age:
Fixed-Length Ficlets · ID: 362
Reviewer: agape4gondor · 2008-11-30 23:49:53 Score: 3
Spoilers!
These are definitely chilling moments! I'm glad I found this, but also
disheartened. It would seem we have not learned, though ages have
passed since these happened.

*shivers* well written pieces of - hmmm - filth - one wonders. For is
not such condescension filth???

Again - well written and off-putting.

Title: Parth Galen · Author: Isabeau of Greenlea · Genres: Alternate
Universe: Steward's Family · ID: 705
Reviewer: Raksha the Demon · 2008-11-30 23:49:57 Score: 4
Spoilers!
This time, Boromir's internal struggle with the Ring at Parth Galen
has a different ending. Boromir's finding the strength to resist it,
through a love that he did not (according to all indications in canon)
have in LOTR, works here.

I particularly enjoyed the characterisations of Frodo and Sam; Isabeau
writes them very well. And the ending is brilliant; Boromir may still
die here, but he will die with his soul clean and no taint of
treachery to his name.

Title: A Meeting in the Tower Hills · Author: Imhiriel · Races:
Cross-Cultural: Fixed-Length Ficlets · ID: 374
Reviewer: pandemonium_213 · 2008-11-30 23:50:09 Score: 4
The Men who remained in Eriador after the "chosen" Edain left for
Númenor have long interested me, so I enjoyed Imhiriel's drabble of
the meeting of the Sea-lords with their brethren and the tentative
cultural exchange. In a succinct drabble, I was reminded of Tolkien's
story, Tar-Elmar, in the Peoples of Middle-earth. The favorite
amusement of the evening was pretty amusing, too. Nice writing!

Title: Brotherhood · Author: Violin Ghost · Races: Men: Steward's
Family · ID: 261
Reviewer: Linaewen · 2008-11-30 23:51:09 Score: 4
This is an excellent story! I love how the song that Faramir keeps
recalling ties in to his memories of Boromir and how it also brings
him unexpectedly into a new relationship with another brother. The
memories of Boromir are sweet and give new insight into his character;
Faramir's character, too, is seen more clearly through how he deals
with his memories.

I just wish I could hear Boromir and Faramir singing this song!

Title: The Captain's Mare · Author: The Lauderdale · Races: Villains ·
ID: 575
Reviewer: Dwimordene · 2008-11-30 23:51:20 Score: 9
Spoilers!
The Lauderdale's orcs are something special. It's a little strange to
write that, but it's the case. Somebody once said that what was so
wonderful about Freud was that you could read his case studies, and
despite the disturbing stories and lives of his patients, they came
off as real people - not simply crazy, but people, even admirable people.

Similarly, The Lauderdale takes us through an orc's mind without
apology, twitch, or attempt to soften or guard his speech. One gets a
good sense of him, and his little joys, his pettiness, his
brutalities, and the confused and sad little love that he had in him.
It doesn't end in any redeeming fashion; there's nothing sublime about
this, but there's a sadness to it that mixes in with the disgust and
the horror. I love the story of the orcs and wargs and their ruined
partnership. I love even more the way that The Lauderdale takes this
particular orc's terribly sincere attempt to be something more than an
uruk to his lady, and then uses it and the disappointment of love to
strangle the little bit of gentleness he had in him. It reads very
believably.

Great job, The Lauderdale!

Title: Circle of Silver · Author: Keiliss · Races: Elves: House of
Finwe · ID: 717
Reviewer: red lasbelin · 2008-11-30 23:52:26 Score: 5
Very well done, an interesting and heartwarming look at a young elf,
Gil-galad, who has had to grow up very quickly to fill a position of
authority that would be daunting for even a seasoned elf. After
reading this story, you get the sense that fill them he will, in a way
no one else had before, and, as the story proves, no one else ever will.

The way he looked after Erestor, making sure he was taken care of
before going on was a glimpse into exactly what kind of person he is.
Good, strong, noble, kind and someone who genuinely cares about
everyone, even down to a young boy.

Title: Burdens · Author: Meril · Genres: Drama: General Fixed-Length
Ficlets · ID: 219
Reviewer: Raksha the Demon · 2008-11-30 23:53:12 Score: 3
Spoilers!
A lovely set of ficlets about the crossing the Helcaraxe.

Each ficlet is a snapshot of an Elf we may never see again, each
ficlet an ephemeral portrait in courage. We know a little more about
the Elves after reading the series, enough to see them as individuals,
enough to see their fragility as well as their strength.

A fine piece of writing by Meril.

Title: Old Friends · Author: Marta · Times: Fourth Age and Beyond:
Fixed-Length Ficlets · ID: 651
Reviewer: Elleth · 2008-11-30 23:53:21 Score: 3
Lovely and very in-character for Gandalf. After him having experienced
Middle-earth, I can easily believe in this boredom and rejoycing
happening. The descriptions are superb.

Title: The Ritual Disturbed · Author: Larner · Genres: Horror · ID: 68
Reviewer: Inkling · 2008-11-30 23:53:26 Score: 3
Spoilers!
An unexpected and fascinating character study of two beings from Aman:
one fallen, the other a powerful, if rogue, Maia. I especially
appreciated seeing Bombadil treated with the respect he deserves but
so seldom receives in fan fiction. The ["mixture of joy and nonsense
that was in truth sense beyond understanding"] is a wonderful way to
describe him. Well done!

Title: Gifts · Author: Gloria Mundi · Races: Villains: Fixed-Length
Ficlets · ID: 594
Reviewer: Dwimordene · 2008-11-30 23:54:58 Score: 1
One part creepy, another part pathetic and sad - just as
Smeagol/Gollum is!

Title: Light of the Westering Sun · Author: Dawn Felagund · Races:
Cross-Cultural: Fixed-Length Ficlets · ID: 126
Reviewer: Keiliss · 2008-11-30 23:55:10 Score: 10
Spoilers!
I left several stories till the end, assuming that as I had read them
before it would be a simple matter to skim over them and review them
adequately, which was of course one of many errors I've made in my
reviewing patterns.

I am particularly sorry this has meant that I will give this piece far
less than its due. Here we have snippets from Haleth's life, little
snapshots of moments, thoughts, experiences, that chart who she is and
where her heart lies, and the wisdom that love and her own innate
common sense have taught her. She knew a love that could never really
have its time, but which still at least in part defines her. Strange
how a line can catch your attention and tell you all you need to know
- she is thinking of him and remembers him [eating with his right hand
or his left, depending on his mood] and later recalls the way he moves
in sleep, in dreams, and it takes love's eye to note and be able to
bring back those tiny details about someone. And I understood the
significance of her awareness that they felt the same sun shine on
them both - I have experienced that before, it has its own
bitter-sweet joy.

The final part, part Vl, really spoke to me. I thought standing alone
it would still tell me an immense amount about Haleth. She looked back
yes. And the old woman did not try and stop her. And that in itself is
a great lesson in wisdom - we all have to make our own mistakes,
experience our own joy. Which tied it back to the beginning, and to
her refusal to stand in judgment of another young heart.

Very, very beautiful reading. I wish I had done this early so that my
review could do it justice.

Title: Sun · Author: Claudia · Races: Cross-Cultural: Frodo and
Faramir · ID: 223
Reviewer: Antane · 2008-11-30 23:55:15 Score: 4
Spoilers!
I love Frodo and Faramir reunion stories and this one is sweet, for
these two are kindred spirits, Faramir being a hobbit in a man's skin.
And I love his words about seeing the sun. Frodo sees ruin and the
present, but Faramir sees beyond that, into the future, as I think he
always did, looking forward to the return of the king that has now
come. In some ways, he could be named Hope Unquenchable too. I love him.

Title: What Goes Up · Author: Dana · Times: Late Third Age: Gondor
Drabbles · ID: 683
Reviewer: Elleth · 2008-11-30 23:55:54 Score: 3
Spoilers!
I was unsure what to expect from this when reading the title, but it
didn't fail to delight. Very fittingly hobbitish in voice, you sketch
a 'cute' picture of Pippin lighting the first of the beacons of Gondor
(I think) - it made me smile, thank you.

Title: Courage · Author: annmarwalk · Genres: Humor: Gondor · ID: 41
Reviewer: Elen Kortirion · 2008-11-30 23:55:55 Score: 4
Spoilers!
Anybody who has encountered an oyster for the first time will
recognise this reaction with a wry smile - how can anybody want to eat
THAT? But just as anybody who has eaten fresh oysters will tell you
thay are the very essence of the sea. They taste how the ocean smells
and once eaten are never forgotten - like numerous other 'first times'
they leave a deep impression! Which is something the author has
captured with wit and humour while remaining very close to the canon
characterizations of all concerned.

Title: In the Van · Author: Branwyn (Lady Branwyn) · Genres: Humor ·
ID: 72
Reviewer: Linaewen · 2008-11-30 23:56:31 Score: 4
Spoilers!
Oh, this is a glorious tale! I can hardly type this review for
laughing! This was such fun, partly because it so very much like a
typical car trip with children, and partly because it is our favorite
characters who are the ones bickering and fighting. I'm particularly
fond of Boromir's insistence that he is highly trained in
orienteering, hehe!

Thanks so much for this fun look at what it might have been like to
travel with these guys!

Title: Riding the Waves · Author: Claudia · Times: Fourth Age and
Beyond · ID: 211
Reviewer: Antane · 2008-11-30 23:56:53 Score: 2
Oh, how nice to see him filled with joy and laughing! Healed at last!
Especially wonderful that he would be so filled on the 6th too! Thank
you for this!

Title: Maglor's Harp · Author: Ford of Bruinen · Genres: Horror · ID: 660
Reviewer: pandemonium_213 · 2008-11-30 23:56:56 Score: 5
This is a marvelously macabre story! This was an first attempt at a
horror story on Ford of Bruinen's part, and she surely pulled it off.
I'm something a horror aficionado (reading it anyway; I'm not
necessarily adept at writing it), and she did a masterful job in
creating a dark, gruesome tale and a truly mad Maglor. Her use of
details, e.g., dead crabs and mussels as his audience - eeesh - and
Maglor's obseesive search for better and increasingly gruesome
materials for the instrument, builds the tension very well and quite
horrifically, illustrating the depths of Maglor's insanity. A dark yet
oddly refreshing and *different* look at Maglor wandering along the
seashore!

Title: If You Could See What I Hear · Author: Cathleen · Times: Mid
Third Age: Eriador · ID: 614
Reviewer: Meghann · 2008-11-30 23:57:18 Score: 10
Spoilers!
I think this highly entertaining story is one of Cathleen's best! It
is a tale filled with faeries set in a mystical realm which wee Pippin
finds when he becomes lost in the woods near his family's farm at
Whitwell. He's travelling with his new friend, a knitted piglet named
Tulip, who shows up for the very first time in this story. Tulip was
made by Pip's hmoter and she always sounds just like Pippin's mother
for some odd reason and does her best to keep the lad out of trouble.
Early on in their adventure she falls in the stream and this sets Pip
on the run to find her! Naturally, they have now gone too far to find
their way out, and yet Pippin doesn't seemed worried because he's far
too involved investigating his new surroundings rather than be
concerned or afraid. Even spending the night in a tree doesn't phase
him, but Tulip is another story. She keeps on being the voice that
guides him and he usually listens to her. Yet, there are those times
he doesn't and they usually lead him into greater mischief. Pippin and
Tulip find themselves in the land of the faeries, a really fascinating
place to be. Unconcerned about how long he's been there, Pippin is
fascinated by everyone he meets.

Back at the Took farm his family is searching for him, and becoming
more afraid as the hours stretch on. Pippin's da sends for the
shirriff and then finally searches in the woods, along with others,
and he, too, is drawn into a magical world where he learns a lot about
his family's past and is shown the mystery of the Took faerie who
supposedly married one of his ancestors. Paladin is amazed to find out
the legend is the truth, but he never finds out the name of the hobbit
who married the faerie. Cathleen used so many of the old Celtic myths
about faeries in this story that it gives it an authentic feel and a
glimpse into what is called the Otherworld. Pippin and Paladin each
come away with feelings of awe, and yet it seems Pippin doesn't
remember a thing by the next day, much to his father's relief! And
Paladin doesn't tell his wife everything he saw, either, but instead
keeps it to himself. The story has a little bit of a surprise ending
which takes place many years in the future.

Cathleen's delightful descriptions of the Took family interactions
always bring her stories to life for me. I can almost hear the voices
of Paladin, Eglantine, and Pippin and his sisters as I read her words.
And she deftly intertwines this down-to-earth family with more
fanciful elements to create an intriguing story. I was sad at the
ending of each chapter and waited impatiently for the next installment
to find out more of what was happening. Cathleen frequently surprised
me but all the surprised were very pleasant ones.

I hope other people like it as much as I did!

Title: Love at First Sight · Author: Gwynnyd · Races: Elves: Other
Fixed-Length Ficlets · ID: 432
Reviewer: Raksha the Demon · 2008-11-30 23:57:20 Score: 3
A brilliant short story that pierces the heart with its foreshadowing,
which is delicately and subtly done, of the eventual undoing of this
new-made family. And the last bit is just so perfect, and sad in light
of what will happen one day.

Title: Of Cake and Crumbs and Distant Dreams · Author: Lindelea ·
Races: Hobbits: Hurt/Comfort · ID: 688
Reviewer: agape4gondor · 2008-11-30 23:57:31 Score: 3
Spoilers!
I simply loved this little tale. I have a wee grandbaby and love to
sit with her upon my lap and weave little stories for her.

What a wondrous thing to have a cousin like Frodo. I'm very glad he
was able to give a bit of comfort to the youngest of their Fellowship.

Title: Gone Amiss · Author: Raksha the Demon · Genres: Drama: Ring War
Drabbles · ID: 44
Reviewer: Elleth · 2008-11-30 23:58:13 Score: 2
Spoilers!
Survivor's guilt, loss and fear at its finest, great writing, and a
touching show of emotion at Boromir's death. I liked this - as much as
you can like a deathfic like this.

Title: Of Cake and Crumbs and Distant Dreams · Author: Lindelea ·
Races: Hobbits: Hurt/Comfort · ID: 688
Reviewer: Antane · 2008-11-30 23:59:24 Score: 3
Spoilers!
A sweet, loving tale of Frodo and Pippin after the Quest, behaving as
they've always done, even with all the changes, they can still be the
same loving cousins as before. I love the comfort given here by Frodo.
The ending is cute too.

Title: An Ordinary Woman · Author: Dawn Felagund · Times: First Age
and Prior: House of Finwe · ID: 32
Reviewer: Alquawende · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 5
This is an amazing and unique story about Luthien. Anyone who likes
Luthien's story will love this. Even those who don't should read this.
The story takes a much more realistic stance on Luthien's famed beauty
that is constantly repeated in The Silmarillion. The characters are
fleshed out and believable. After reading this, it has definitely
changed my view on the character of Luthien because before I always
thought of her as the perfect woman, known to us as the dreaded Mary
Sue. I don't like to read fanfics on her, but this one has become a
favorite of mine.

Title: When Trouble Came · Author: Lily · Races: Hobbits · ID: 109
Reviewer: SlightlyTookish · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 4
This is a fascinating look at the Brandybucks during the time that the
Travellers were away, beginning with the ruffians' invasion of
Buckland. The story starts off very powerfully and with vivid
descriptions of the characters' plights. I especially like her
depiction of Merimac's relationships with his wife and children. I'm
very much looking forward to seeing how this story will conclude!

Title: The Great Hobbiton Race of 1435 · Author: Llinos · · ID: 65
Reviewer: grey_wonderer · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 9
This is a story by one of my favorite authors. Every word of this,
including the chapter titles which are so spot on and so very amusing,
is pure entertainment! Of all of the stories that I have read this
year, this was the most hobbity. The story is filled with humor and
action and adventure and the details that the author includes make it
impossible not to see the story in your mind as it unfolds. The
dialogue is absolutely priceless! There isn't a false moment in this
and with each new chapter you find yourself hurrying on to the next
one because each chapter brings yet another cliff hanger! The author
has cleverly connected the events so that the suspense and the humor
build as you read. Merry and Pippin and Sam are at the center of
events but many of the Shire's other residents get in on the doings.
The story surprises and delights at every turn. Merry and Pippin are
hysterically amusing and Sam Gamgee is very determined and very
patient in spite of events that would send some running for cover. I
laughed out loud as I read this. This is humor at its best and in the
hands of this particular author Tolkien's hobbits always stay in
character.

Title: A New Light · Author: Marigold · · ID: 67
Reviewer: grey_wonderer · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 3
This is a beautifully written poem which the author admits, is her
first attempt at writing a poem. I think she should do this more
often. I have always enjoyed her stories and I am now a fan of her poetry.

Title: Theater of Confusion · Author: Nancy Brooke · Genres: Humor ·
ID: 177
Reviewer: Ainaechoiriel · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 3
Nicely done twist on the end of this one. The descriptions of the
first paragraph pull you into Boromir's confusion and the last
sentence offers perfect satisfaction in knowing why.

Title: In Passing · Author: Altariel · Races: Men · ID: 104
Reviewer: Ainaechoiriel · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 3
I felt the age of Faramir in reading this, but also his wisdom. I felt
the youth of the boy and also his respect. I liked the use of the
chess pieces, how they felt familiar to us Earthlings but also
different to fit the world Tolkien created. I liked how Faramir
thought of the future without sadness and the past without regret.
Well done, Altariel!

Title: Wizards' Pupils · Author: Altariel · Races: Men: Minas Tirith ·
ID: 108
Reviewer: Ainaechoiriel · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 4
Spoilers!
Brilliance and wisdom. In a fanfic. Some just don't think it's
possible but there it is, as I have always known it could be. Altariel
here has a story within a story, a nice twist to show that at the end.
But better still is the wisdom passed from father (who had to learn
wisdom apart from his father) to his son (who has such a good and wise
father to learn from). Ah, if we in our politics could disagree
honestly and without hatred and ugliness, to be able to hear other
views to understand why we don't hold them.

Title: In Dark Places · Author: peredhil lover · · ID: 324
Reviewer: Calenlass Greenleaf · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 2
Though there's only a prologue, the story holds much promise. Peredhil
Lover's work has always impressed me.

Title: Eagle of the Star · Author: Neoinean · Genres: Adventure:
Incomplete · ID: 327
Reviewer: Calenlass Greenleaf · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 2
One of the best stories about Aragorn's time as Thorongil. Be warned
that it's a WIP. The language, the plot, the dialogue, the
descriptions--everything was beautiful.

Title: The Mariner's Son · Author: cairistiona · Genres: Adventure ·
ID: 329
Reviewer: Amarok · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 10
Spoilers!
That is really a great story, with action, tension and heroism – and
humour. And it is all written in such a beautiful language.

Oh, how Aragorn almost despairs, but then decides to fight until the
end. Or the water surrounding him, but still he is thirsty and can not
drink the sea water. Each time I thought it could not get worse it did
- that was done great. And of course I loved the angsty scenes while
Aragorn almost drowned. While he hung on that small ledge, I hung on
tightly to the arms of my chair to not jump around in tension and
unseat the laptop :-).

I also loved the element of memory loss. I would have wanted to see
more of that, but I can always hope that you'll commit a story to it
in future, can't I? ;-)

And your playing around with his many names was enjoyable, as always.
And the Mariner's and Aragorn's talk about his age made me laugh as well.

Really great was the ending. Our hero Aragorn choose to not fight for
his ring, instead he used his knowledge of the human soul and mind
(even a slightly sick mind) - and he succeeded, and got his ring and
sword back. I think as future king he'll need that kind of knowledge,
and I'd love to learn how he developed it. Has Elrond taught him? Or
has he learned this during his ranger years? Or while out alone in the
wild, observing the animals? You see, you need to write much more :-).

So, I can only repeat: I loved this story. Well done!




Title: Shelter From the Storm · Author: SlightlyTookish · Races:
Cross-Cultural: Friendship · ID: 315
Reviewer: Lily · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 3
A very charming story that shows well Boromir's other side - not
possessed by the Ring. Slightlytookish portraits Boromir as very
concerned about the hobbits' well being while the hobbits, in turn,
admire him for his strength and his knowledge as a warrior.

Title: Of First Impressions and Old Friends · Author: Dreamflower ·
Races: Cross-Cultural: Frodo and Faramir · ID: 146
Reviewer: Violin Ghost · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 3
That was a fresh, lovely tale of Faramir's and Gandalf's first
meeting. It was perfect, Gandalf repeating his own words once
addressed to Bilbo! It was a nice reflection on Frodo's part about
Faramir, and Faramir's quiet resistence of temptation, as well.

Title: Moon Over Water · Author: Avon · Genres: Drama: Final Partings
· ID: 518
Reviewer: Elen Kortirion · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 5
This story is utterly enchanting - there is no other word to describe
it. The tradition of a special event that can only take place on one
night in the year, the wonderfully described ethereal procession, and
the way Faramir's view point changes as he matures is beautifully
rendered.

And the last mystical image of Boromir, taken to the West by a
queen... is both fabulous as an image from Middle-earth, and as an
extrapolation of Tolkien's drawing on the old legends that constructed
his legendarium... and wonderfully Arthurian in its own right. The
tale is lyrical, mystical and flows with all the fluid grace of that
moonlit river.

Thank you to all the hard working volunteers and especially to Martha.
I couldn't do as many reviews as last year, but my wish list was longer. Go figure! I know that I missed some excellent stories and some of my favorite stories didn't get a review because they were buried somewhere in my wish list. The moment I realized I will never get my wish list done, I randomly chose stories out of it. This way I got at least something done. The quality of the stories I read was outstanding. Thank you to all the authors and nominators finding these gems.

Chris

> -----Original Message-----
> From: MEFAwards@yahoogroups.com [mailto:MEFAwards@yahoogroups.com]On
> Behalf Of frodoandsam
> Sent: Monday, December 01, 2008 1:26 PM
> To: MEFAwards@yahoogroups.com
> Subject: Re: [MEFAwards] Upcoming review postings
>
>
> It was fun! I didn't get to everything I wanted to read but I am already
> looking forward to next year and have some stories/poems already
> in mind to
> nominate! I will have to pace myself better next year so I can finish
> everything! Hantanyel everyone!
>
> Namarie, God bless, Antane :)
>
>
> On Mon, 01 Dec 2008 02:07:02 -0000, "annmarwalk" <ann@marwalk.com> wrote:
> > The remaining 590 reviews (!) will be posted by Wednesday evening. I
> > plan to post twice a day, morning and evening, with four parts to each
> > post. Thank you for your enthusiastic reviewage!
> --
> Visit my blog! http://theroadthroughmiddle-earth.blogspot.com
>

Hi Sulriel,

We're still tying up loose ends but hope to make an announcement by the
middle of the week - probably on Wednesday after Annmarwalk finishes
posting reviews.

Thanks,

Marta

Súlriel of Menegroth wrote:

>
>
> another amazing year. !!
>
> when will the final results be posted?
>
> Sulriel
>

Title: Not One of Us · Author: StarLight9 · Races: Cross-Cultural:
Elves and Men · ID: 542
Reviewer: Sivan Shemesh · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 3
Spoilers!
Wonderful moral to Eldarion, and I'm glad that the king told him the
story, or rather his story.

Your story is a masterpiece, and i love the way it was written, thank
you for writing it.

Title: Bad Idea · Author: StarLight9 · Genres: Humor: Elven Lands ·
ID: 610
Reviewer: Sivan Shemesh · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 3
Spoilers!
I love the way you created your story, and i love how you hold
Thranduil and Gloin away from their sons, so they could act.

Gimli and Gloin certainly made the elf figuring that it was a bad
idea, and what a masterpiece you brought abd capture well.



Title: Relief · Author: Tanaqui · Races: Men: General Drabbles · ID: 446
Reviewer: Jules14 · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 3
I'd call this drabble short, but very sexy. The idea of Boromir
bathing naked is quite appealing to begin with, but I also liked how
you made your description sensual without any graphic sexual content.

Title: An Afternoon Incognito · Author: Alexajohnson · · ID: 598
Reviewer: NeumeIndil · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 2
A very nice idea. I liked your capitalization of "The Pile", which
added an even more ominous air to it.

Title: In This Far Land · Author: Encaitariel · Races: Elves:
Incomplete · ID: 191
Reviewer: Alquawende · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 4
Spoilers!
This is a very original filler story about the origins of Gildor, who
said in FotR that he was of the House of Finrod.

I like the theory that the author has created to explain why Gildor
says he is of the House of Finrod and why he is called himself
Inglorion, in the book. The interactions he, Gildor, has with the
Laiquendi is very exciting to read. Gildor is very curious about them.

Another thing I really liked about this story was that it had examples
to show how devoted Gildor would become to his foster-father.

Title: A Darkness Lies behind Us · Author: Bodkin · Races: Elves:
Incomplete · ID: 190
Reviewer: Alquawende · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 6
This story goes into the lives of certain Reborn, those who had died
and later were released from Mandos. A subplot could be the
relationships that Finrod has with others, like his parents and Amarie.

The way Bodkin has portrayed the relationship between Finrod and his
father is perfect. Finarfin is very kind and understanding towards his
son. The interactions between Finrod and Amarie is very well done.
They both realize that they both need time to think about how their
relationship is going to be and the feelings of the other after an age
of seperation.

Something else I really enjoyed about this fic was that it made the
royal families of Tirion and Alqualonde more vulnerable and realistic.
They suffered pain too. Just like the common people.

This story, to me, is a must read for any fan of the House of Finarfin.

Title: The Work of Small Hands · Author: Dawn Felagund · Genres:
Longer Works · ID: 352
Reviewer: Alquawende · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 5
This story makes Earwen, and elven women who stayed behind, just
shine. She has to solve numerous problems, since the men are gone and
her sisters-in-law are consumed in their own problems. What I really
like is that Earwen is very persistent and feels that she has to help
the remnants of the Noldor, though their kin had committed the
Kinslaying at Alqualonde, the home of her own kin.

The author has created a believable character, though she happens to
be pretty and smart, from one of the numerous Elven Princesses created
by Tolkien. It's quite difficult to not create a Mary Sue, but Dawn
Felagund has done it beautifully with Earwen.





Title: NIGHT and FOREST: A Glimpse of Beauty · Author: Fiondil ·
Times: First Age and Prior · ID: 554
Reviewer: Alquawende · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 4
Fiondil has done an amazing job in going into depth with Beren's time
in Dungortheb, the land where the powers of Sauron and Melian met. The
descriptions and examples of what he, Beren, might have experienced
makes his arrival into Doriath seem like a miracle and the best thing
that has happened to him in a long time. It also shows the reader how
much it probably meant to Beren when he met, saw, and fell in love
with Luthien, whom he called Tinuviel, and when he later found out
that she, the fairest of Elven maids, loved him back.

Title: Full Brothers in Blood · Author: Oshun · Genres: Humor · ID: 212
Reviewer: Alquawende · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 5
This story was very enjoyable and funny to read. It shows the
differences between Findekano and Turukano as children and why their
relationship was how it was later in Beleriand. Turukano is such a joy
to read in here. He is the younger brother who both idolizes and
envies his elder brother, Findekano. The bantering between the Family
of Nolofinwe, Finwe and Indis, and Nelyafinwe and Tyelkormo is very
humorous and witty. Oshun, here, has done an amazing job in creating
different personalities for numerous characters in about 4,000 words.

Title: Seeking the Sun · Author: Linda Hoyland · Races: Men · ID: 488
Reviewer: Amarok · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 10
Spoilers!
This is a very touching story. For once I like it that a common woman,
with the special problems a woman in her position most likely had to
face, is portrayed. I truly feel for her. Oh, and I love first person POV.

Another topic that touched me is the theme of Aragorn as king. This
story connects to the duty a king has to his people. Not only to
people in general, or to the loved ones, but also on an individual
basis with strangers. Of course king and queen can not look after
everyone personally, but if the people do not come and speak about
their troubles, they have no way of knowing of it all. I like how that
theme was inverwoven in this story.

The underlying prejudges (against a Northener as king and an elf as
queen, and their interracial marriage) also add tension to this story
in a nice way (for the reader, that is :-) ).

As for the characters: of course I love Aragorn - or rather king
Elessar - here. His personality, stern as a king must be, but also
caring, comes over nicely. He cares for Niniel, but he also keeps the
appropriate distance.

Arwen also is presented in a nice and believable way here. I love that
she can sense the unborn child, and so is able to give Niniel back her
hope.

Niniel seems like a character worth exploring further. How will her
future look like, alone with a child? Will she get a job as
seamstress? Will she meet Aragorn and Arwen again? There is room for
sequels… :-).


Title: Legolas' Seat · Author: erobey · Genres: Humor: Elven Lands ·
ID: 671
Reviewer: Sivan Shemesh · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 3
Spoilers!
I always love this story, very funny, and moved, love the way that you
wrote the hobbits, and yet my loving pairing. Though i pity Legolas,
*Glorfindel, stay away from Legolas... take Elrohir with you, he done
nothing*

Great writing like always.

*Hugs*

Title: The Myth of the One Ring's Power · Author: Dreamflower ·
Genres: Non-Fiction · ID: 532
Reviewer: Lily · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 6
This is a fascinating essay on how much power the One Ring really had.
Her essay offers a deeper insight into Tolkien's various mentions of
the Ring and for a time it has the reader doubt whether It actually
had some power at all or if the professor, although he mentioned it
many times, might actually have forgotten to show the Ring's
influence. But Dreamflower then carefully guides the reader through
the various times when the Ring shows its power though not usually in
an obvious way and with different approaches based on the character It
tries to tempt.

Her essay answers all the questions concerning the Ring I have ever
wondered about in a plausible way, and the Ring's subliminal influence
on those around it - which Dreamflower marvellously describes - to me
makes it even more evil.

Title: Not Yet · Author: erobey · Genres: Romance: Elven Lands · ID: 712
Reviewer: Sivan Shemesh · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 3
Spoilers!
Another fav of mine, and yet there is another appearance of
Glorfindel, which i love the way you write Glorfindel and Legolas.
Great story that i enjoyed to read and to re-read it.

Keep up the great work that you are doing with your fic, and all the
other fics that you occupy with.

Title: Like Roses over a Fence · Author: Ellie · Times: First Age and
Prior: House of Finwe · ID: 110
Reviewer: Alquawende · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 7
This story delves into the thoughts of the wives of Finwe, Feanaro and
Nolofinwe after the Kinslaying and the Rebellion.

Indis is a very insightful character in here. She is such a sad
character however to read in this story. Ellie has done an amazing job
in showing Indis's sorrow over all that has befallen Finwe's House.

I really like how Nerdanel is portrayed. She is too often portrayed as
a fierce woman by writers. No, in this story, Nerdanel makes you think
she is a very gentle, but sad woman. Some of her comments and
statements in the story show that she is aptly named "the wise."

The character of Anaire was a joy to see since not many writers
include her in their stories. Overall, this was a very nice story. It
made me realize that the wives of Finwe's House didn't have to always
dislike each other in fandom, just because they are often written that
way and because Nolofinwe and Feanaro didn't get along in the books.

Title: Not Speak or Whisper · Author: PeppyPower · · ID: 326
Reviewer: nau_tika · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 3
This story is beautiful. I wasn't absolutely sure who the characters
were until the last and I think that was a nice touch. I'm not
normally a fan of Bilbo stories, but I really like him in this! Great job!

Title: The Valor of the Beardless · Author: Rubynye · · ID: 638
Reviewer: annmarwalk · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 6
I don't use the word "sweet" very often, but you've put it to such
good use in this drabble that I have no hesitation whatsoever to take
advantage of it as well. The opening imagery is marvelous: you've shot
us right into the middle of the scene, standing right over Eomer's
shoulder as he surreptitiously gazes at his fellow guest. You say that
you aren't good at Rohirrim, but the young king you portray here *is*
a new kind of Rohir, one who's seen the stuff of legend spring forth
from the grass, and ancient prophecies come true. All his past
expectations have been turned topsy-turvey, so it is fitting that one
of his first revelations is to recognize [the valor of the beardless],
and accept that nothing is going to be the same as it was. A very
meaty drabble for all its sweetness, simplicity and charm!

Title: Portrait of a Queen · Author: Aruthir · Races: Men · ID: 338
Reviewer: Jules14 · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 4
An excellent oneshot. You have perfectly captured the frustration,
determination, and rage of a strong women trying to gain recognition
in a patriarchal culture. However, I don't clearly understand why the
portrait of Ancalime was hidden and why her name was stricken from the
records; after all, by this time, women could take the scepter of
Numenor. Also, was the background information on Tar-Telperien and the
portrait gotten from one of Tolkien's books? If so, which one, as I'd
like to read it.

Title: An Ordinary Woman · Author: Dawn Felagund · Times: First Age
and Prior: House of Finwe · ID: 32
Reviewer: Jules14 · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 4
I liked that you didn't revise the story after you realized how old
Luthien must have been. Even knowing that she was born in the Years of
the Trees, I always felt, after reading "Of Beren and Luthien", that
she was relatively young for an elf. Perhaps it was because of her
sheltered life and because of her apparent impetuousness. In any case,
you portrayed Luthien with a wisdom and friendliness in this story
that I've never read about before, and I enjoyed it.

Title: Pippin-Frog For A Day · Author: Neilia · Genres: Alternate
Universe: Incomplete · ID: 115
Reviewer: grey_wonderer · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 3
This is such a funny and inventive story! I love Merry in this and his
reactions to everything are just so well done. The humor that ensues
from the strange situation is so much fun and the author really gets
the characters down. I can't wait for more of this one.

Title: Of Cake and Crumbs and Distant Dreams · Author: Lindelea ·
Races: Hobbits: Hurt/Comfort · ID: 688
Reviewer: grey_wonderer · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 6
Spoilers!
I adore Frodo in this tale. The author has captured Frodo's caring
nature and his concern for his younger cousin very well. I also like
the fact that although this story is post quest Frodo is not yet too
ill or too sad to be the stronger older cousin. The story is a gentle
healing one and the style is very hobbity. This author always writes a
very entertaining tale and her characterizations of the canon
characters are quite lovely. Frodo's use a a familiar activity as a
way to ease Pippin's mind and help him to relax works very well. This
is also very hobbity in that Frodo's remedy for what is ailing Pippin
involves food and story-telling both of which are very much a part of
a hobbit's life. Frodo manages to give Pippin a little bit of the
Shire in Gondor and at the same time you get the feeling that Frodo
benefits nearly as much as Pippin does. A wonderful story by a very
talented writer.

Title: Eucatastrophe: The Return · Author: Dreamflower · Genres:
Alternate Universe · ID: 617
Reviewer: grey_wonderer · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 5
Spoilers!
Let me just say that I love this story. This is an excellent AU and it
allows the reader to enjoy a post Quest timeline that has Frodo well
and healthy and living in the Shire among his family and friends. I
really enjoyed this tale and all of the little details that the author
put into it. She does hobbits very well. This tale has adventure,
romance, and humor all rolled into one so whatever your pleasure if
you enjoy a good AU then you are sure to find something in this that
you like. The inclusion of a healthy Frodo for events in the Shire
gives this what-if a very lovely feel.

Title: The Quest for the Hairless Cat · Author: GamgeeFest · Races:
Hobbits: Childhood · ID: 524
Reviewer: grey_wonderer · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 10
I am a very big fan of humor in Lord of the Rings fiction and in my
opinion there are very few authors writing that can give their readers
the kind of laughs that Gamgeefest can. Her hobbits do the most
entertaining things! I think of this author as a master of writing Sam
Gamgee but in this tale it is her take on Pippin and Merry that have
the reader laughing. There are also some excellent moments involving
Saradoc Brandybuck in this one and he is one of my favorite
characters. This story moves from the hobbits childhood to a rather
interesting discover in Minas Tirith after the quest. One element ties
everything together nicely. This story is inventive, humorous, and
very in character for all of the hobbits involved. This author never
fails to make me laugh with her wonderful stories and this particular
tale has become one of my favorites. I have read it several times and
enjoyed it every time. I think that is a very strong indication of a
good fiction. If you can read it again, even knowing the outcome and
still be entertained then the author has done a great job. This is
such a story for me and I think that others will find this to be true
also. Give this one a read because if you like hobbits and humor then
this story is a must!

Title: Return of the King · Author: Imhiriel · Races: Men: General
Drabbles · ID: 355
Reviewer: Alquawende · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 5
There are not many stories written about the period in Gondor known as
the kin-strife. I've always been curious about that time and had never
found any stories about it or anything for that matter, so when I saw
this drabble, I just had to read it, even if it was too short. ;) I
love how Imhiriel illustrates the feelings of Eldacar, Gondor's King,
whose throne was taken by his kinsman Castamir and Castamir's allies.
The idea that he, Eldacar, felt betrayed by his people, is a very
plausible one and is a good reason, for him not to return to his
kindom, but it is good that he did. Very nice story about the period
of the Kin-strife Imhiriel!

Title: The Shadow · Author: Linda Hoyland · Genres: Drama: Ring War
Drabbles · ID: 25
Reviewer: Elen Kortirion · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 2
The final lines give a chilling sense of real fear to Frodo's
ruminations. His sensation of lose, and the knowledge that only he
really knows how that feels is well conveyed.

Title: A Great Evil Unmade · Author: Linaewen · Genres: Alternate
Universe: Steward's Family · ID: 267
Reviewer: Jules14 · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 4
Spoilers!
Very interesting. I can see how Boromir, next to Sam, would be the
perfect one to take up the Ring if Frodo failed, as he knows what it's
like. Boromir is also my favorite character, so I always enjoy reading
stories in which he survives. Yet I would have liked to read about him
dropping the Ring into Mount Doom and what happened to him after. I
don't know if you plan to write a second part or not, but I liked the
first part.

Title: Sharing Good News · Author: Imhiriel · Genres: Humor: Drabbles
· ID: 216
Reviewer: Elen Kortirion · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 2
Very pleasent - it puts a silly smile on my face for no other reason
than an imagining of Aragorn's face with a smile he so seldom has the
opportunities for showing.

Title: The Flute · Author: Golden · Races: Hobbits: Post-Ring War ·
ID: 150
Reviewer: grey_wonderer · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 4
I really enjoyed this. I first listened to the author read it herself
which was very entertaining and then I read it again later. This is a
lovely story filled with hope and friendship and music and I do
believe that it is my favorite of all of this author's stories. The
music, if you get the chance to hear the audio version of this story
that the author had posted, really gives the story something extra.
This was something very unique and original. I won't spoil this by
revealing anything more but if you haven't read this one you really
should!

Title: The North Delving Incident · Author: Dana · Genres: Drama · ID: 26
Reviewer: grey_wonderer · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 6
I always enjoy this author's writing and this story stands out as a
favorite of mine. This story is very exciting and she managed to keep
me on the edge of my seat as I read it. With each new development and
each new twist of the plot the author brings more suspense. The
characters are so well written and so very in character from the
beginning to the end of this story. The original characters are
delightful. They are so well written that you feel as if they must be
canon. I dearly love the little bits of humor that turn up
unexpectedly within this tale. You will also enjoy the dialogue. I
thought that every word out of Pippin's mouth in this story was
perfectly Pippin and fit the mood and the scene. I won't include any
spoilers except to say that this is an excellent story by a very
talented writer.

Title: For the Want of ... · Author: Larner · Times: Late Third Age:
Gondor · ID: 681
Reviewer: grey_wonderer · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 6
I read this wonderful story just before the end of the nomination
season and was very glad to still have a nomination left because the
moment I finished this I wanted to see it win something. I love this
author's writing and she always puts so many details into her stories.
Her descriptions of places and events help the reader to see the story
unfold while enjoying it. I loved every word of this story. The
conversations in this are very entertaining and reveal much about the
characters involved in the story. I don't like posting spoilers and so
I won't give away details from the story itself but I will say that
the subject that the author deals with here is very emotional but she
does this without allowing the emotions to over run the story. This is
a lovely tale and well worth reading.

Title: Birthday Double Drabble · Author: PipMer · Times: Multi-Age:
Fixed-Length Ficlets · ID: 526
Reviewer: grey_wonderer · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 5
I think that drabbles are very difficult to write and so I am always
amazed when someone is able to say so very much in so few words. I
enjoyed this double drabble very much. The author manages to describe
the scene perfectly and tells a complete story. The hobbits are well
written and very much in character. The author writes Merry Brandybuck
and Pippin Took very well and does a lovely job of making us see the
close friendship between the two of them and because friendship is
such an important part of Lord of The Rings that's a very important
thing to get right! I loved this one.

Title: Dark Dreams · Author: SlightlyTookish · Races: Hobbits:
Hurt/Comfort · ID: 550
Reviewer: grey_wonderer · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 6
I am always very happy to see a new post by this author. She hasn't
had much time for her writing lately and so finding this story by her
was a very nice surprise. I have read this one several times and I
think that is one of the best ways to know how very good a story is.
If people come back to it and read and enjoy it over and over then the
author has done something memorable. Merry and Pippin are lovely in
this tale which has a bit of angst, a bit of drama, and a lot of
friendship. There is also some very hobbity humor and conversation as
the author allows her hobbits to be hobbits. The writing is so
entertaining and you can feel the tension at certain points in the
story as you read this one. There isn't a single false moment in this
and anyone that enjoys hobbit stories or Merry and Pippin stories will
love this one. I only wish that Slighttookish had more time to write
so that we might enjoy more of her stories!

Title: The Five Rules of Cooking · Author: GamgeeFest · Races:
Hobbits: Childhood · ID: 523
Reviewer: grey_wonderer · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 10
This story is so adorable! I love this authors understanding of small
children and her way with humor. I particularly enjoyed the way she
wrote Merry Brandybuck in this one. All of the details in this are set
forth with ease and the story unfolds in such a natural way that it is
easy to enjoy the events as the humor of the hobbit's situation builds
throughout the tale. The story is entertaining and filled with
cousinly friendship and love. Frodo, Merry, and Pippin are all in
character and the dialogue between the three cousins is priceless! If
there aren't young children in this author's life then I am stunned
because she writes as if she is writing from experience. The story
also contains an excellent original character that Gamgeefest manages
to bring to life with details so that the character, Tulip Crocker,
fits right into the story and becomes a part of the Shire community.
There are very few authors writing now that are able to do wee hobbits
better than this author can. Anyone who has read her lovely stories
about Samwise Gamgee and his family can tell you that this is a writer
that can give you a heartwarming tale or a humorous tale or set you on
an adventure with one or more of your favorite hobbits. If you enjoy
pre Quest fiction involving the hobbits then this is a story that you
shouldn't miss. I won't post spoilers here because this one has a very
lovely comic set up that builds throughout the tale and everyone
should enjoy it as they read!

Title: Pulling the Wool · Author: Elen Kortirion · Races: Men: General
Fixed-Length Ficlets · ID: 95
Reviewer: Makamu · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 5
The three drabbles presented here do something very remarkable; they
characterize Boromir as somebody who is willing to form various
relationships with members of the Fellowship as long as he can trust them.

Trust can take on different forms-there is the 'seeing' trust he feels
around Merry and Pippin and the blind trust he feels around Aragorn,
which Aragorn honours after Boromir's departure.

This difference in difficulty to trust is also reflected in the
stylistic difference between the first and the other two drabbles,
while one is light in tone, the others are more sombre.

All in all, the story offers a very interesting glimpse into Boromir's
psyche and the way the Fellowship interacts.

Title: On Canon and Fanfic · Author: Marta · Genres: Non-Fiction · ID: 123
Reviewer: Dawn Felagund · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 10
One of the first flamewars I observed after joining fandom inspired a
list mod to make the claim that there are some subjects in fandom that
cannot be discussed rationally. In my years since, AU stories--what
they are and, perhaps more importantly, what they are worth as
fanfic--have proven themselves worthy of inclusion on that list. Even
as some authors flaunt the AU badge they proudly stick to their
stories, others grumble about why one would even bother to write a
story that ignores canon. AU gets used as a way out of having to read
the books and gets stuck on stories by authors who are simply wearied
of having their more imaginative interpretations attacked. It's become
a complex and controversial label.

Marta's essay "On Canon and Fanfic" explores the complexity of this
genre and the fandom reactions to it. [Is "AU" a pejorative label?]
she asks and goes about breaking down the different uses of canon in
Tolkien fanfic to define what is an AU and what is merely a wild or
imaginative interpretation.

But perhaps what attracted me, as an author who has unfortunately used
the AU label to defend my interpretations against canatics in the
past, the most to this essay and to Marta's meta in general is her
clear thinking and sharp logic where canon is concerned, all delivered
with a touch of humor. She writes,

[Also, even if a story is uncanonical, this doesn't mean it's a sin
against Tolkien. The man is dead, he doesn't feel any more pain. And
even if he would blush, fanfic is the production of the fanfic
author's mind and imagination, not that of the original canon's author.]

Regardless of one's preferences for reading or writing AU stories, the
points Marta makes in her essay are a good reminder to all of us, most
of whom have, at one time or another, fanatically embraced our
favorite canon fact, that Tolkien's canon is a complex and subtle
entity, and fanfic is our exploration of that.

Title: Tales of the Eldandili · Author: Alassiel · Genres: Drama:
Incomplete · ID: 502
Reviewer: Jules14 · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 2
Wonderful story, with excellent writing style and characters. I love
modern-day Middle-earth and Valinor fics, and yours is one of the best
I've read. I'll continue to read it.

Title: They Also Serve · Author: Marta · Times: Late Third Age · ID: 365
Reviewer: Jules14 · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 5
I agree with the review on your livejournal page that called your fic
"sweet and homely," but I also like that you gave Arwen an interesting
personality, more interesting than that given her in the books, or
even the films. I never thought of her liking to cook, but it seems
fitting, considering her tranquil personality, very different from,
say, Luthien or Eowyn. I also liked her grief about her mother; so few
fanfics examine how Arwen must have felt after Celebrian went west,
though plenty examine the feelings and reactions of her twin brothers.
It's stories like yours that make Arwen an interesting and likable
character.

Title: Moon of the Sea · Author: pandemonium_213 · Times: Second and
Early Third Age · ID: 213
Reviewer: Alquawende · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 5
This is a very nice interpretation about Elendil's wife, the
ancestress of Aragorn. I'm glad that the author, Pandemonium, has
written about her because she is such an important person, I think, to
Middle Earth and the history of the kingdoms of Arnor and Gondor. If
it was not for her, there would be no Isildur to cut the One ring from
Sauron's hand and, no king of Gondor, no king of Arnor... The story
begins before her marriage to Elendil and gives you little scenes into
her life that each tell you a little bit about her. I love the idea
that she felt such a strong connection to the Moon and it was a she,
not a he.

Title: Arvedui v. Pelendur · Author: Roh Wyn · Genres: Non-Fiction ·
ID: 277
Reviewer: Alquawende · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 4
This was a very enjoyable essay. It definitely cleared up some
confusions, of mine, on why Arvedui's claim to Gondor's throne was
rejected, yet Aragorn's claim was accepted centuries later. I had to
read this essay since Arvedui, I always thought, was very interesting
and I always wanted to know more about him, since he is one of the few
Third Age people I will read about.

Title: Fulfilling Oaths · Author: Nieriel Raina · Times: Multi-Age ·
ID: 332
Reviewer: Alquawende · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 5
I am a Finrod fan, so I just had to read this. There are many stories
that try to explain how the famous Ring of Barahir was eventually,
after two full ages of the world, brought back to its original and
famous owner. This story is very unique, I think, because it not only
told the important events the Ring of Barahir went through, and
because the person who later brings the Ring of Barahir back to Finrod
and Valinor, was a definite suprise to me. I never would have thought
it was this person. NiRi is a very creative writer and this is a
perfect example. She wrote a story, with a plot that others have
already used, but she added a suprise, but enjoyable, twist to the end.

Title: The Six-Fingered Glove Mystery · Author: shirebound · Genres:
Mystery · ID: 522
Reviewer: grey_wonderer · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 7
I adore this story and I enjoyed it from the very first word to the
very last. I only wish that it were longer. The author has a special
way with hobbits and her young Frodo is particularly captivating. The
story is a mystery of sort but I will not spoil your enjoyment of it
by giving things away in this review. I will just say that while this
is a mystery in need of a solution, there is also humor involved. The
characters featured in the story are Bilbo Baggins, Frodo Baggins and
Samwise Gamgee. A very special original character that has become a
favorite of the readers of this author's stories also puts in an
appearance. This is entertaining and the hobbits are very much in
character. The story is per Quest and in this Frodo is the young,
inquisitive, intelligent hobbit that I love to see. One can imagine
this Frodo growing into the hobbit on whom all of the fate of
Middle-earth rested. Sam has some excellent lines of dialogue in this
one and one remark had me laughing out loud. A great read by a very
talented author!

Title: Regarding Ents · Author: PipMer · Races: Hobbits: Post-Ring War
· ID: 525
Reviewer: grey_wonderer · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 5
I enjoyed this story very much. The dialogue is very entertaining and
all four hobbits are involved in this one which is another thing that
I enjoy. Sam is very humorous in this without actually meaning to be
and his opinion of the things that he is hearing seems very
understandable. This story expresses a kind of wonder that only
Tolkien's hobbits seem to be able to give us with regard to a certain
event during the Quest. I don't like including spoilers and so I won't
go into details but this is a very well-written little fiction and one
of this author's lighter offerings. She does excellent angst but in
this story she shows that she is also very good with humor.

Title: What Goes Up · Author: Dana · Times: Late Third Age: Gondor
Drabbles · ID: 683
Reviewer: grey_wonderer · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 4
I loved this! It reads exactly like it could be the thoughts of
Peregrin Took. It is straight forward, amusing, honest, and very
hobbity! It is very hard to review a drabble without giving things
away since drabbles are, by nature so short. I will just say that I
found this one humorous, very entertaining, very in character, and
thoroughly entertaining. Now, do read it for yourself. You don't want
to miss out!

Title: Horse Sense · Author: Branwyn (Lady Branwyn) · Genres: Humor:
Elven Lands · ID: 22
Reviewer: grey_wonderer · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 4
This was delightful. I enjoyed this look at the Fellowship through the
eyes of one who traveled with them for a time, Bill the pony. I liked
his reaction to Gimli and his concerns over the type of treatment that
he might expect to receive from the members of the Fellowship that he
had not yet become aquianted with. The title of this one is well
chosen because Bill makes so very valid points. This is lots of fun
and very inventive.

Title: Promises Broken and Kept · Author: periantari · Genres: Drama:
Featuring Frodo or Sam · ID: 144
Reviewer: grey_wonderer · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 4
This author has written a very enjoyable story about a time in
Meriadoc Brandybuck's childhood when he felt less than secure. The
story takes place prior to the Quest and focuses on Merry as well as
Frodo. This is a very excellent cousin fiction filled with friendship,
family and love. The author gives us angst but she also fills the
story with a sense of family and hope. This is an author who knows and
loves Tolkien's characters especially the hobbits. This is a very
entertaining read!

Title: The Blessing · Author: Mews1945 · Genres: Drama: Featuring
Frodo or Sam · ID: 228
Reviewer: grey_wonderer · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 4
Spoilers!
The author has given us a very interesting view of Frodo and Samwise
from someone who knows them only by the words of others. This is a
lovely fiction filled with emotion and hope in the midst of injury and
the aftermath of battle. The author paints a picture using words and
makes us see the work of a female healer as well as the reactions of
the wounded to the Ringbearer and his loyal companion, Samwise Gamgee.
This is lovely.

Title: A Cat in King Elessar's Court · Author: agape4gondor · Races:
Cross-Cultural: Friendship · ID: 66
Reviewer: Linda Hoyland · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 3
Spoilers!
This is a highly unusual and enjoyable story. I'm not a fan of
Denethor, but I could imagine him having a clever cat,who is the
narrator here.
To me,the high point of the story was when the cat swears allegiance
to Aragorn and realises his worth.
This is no ordinary cat, but a descedent of one of Queen Beruiel's
felines which has the ability to talk!

Title: Out, Damn'd Spot! Out, I Say! · Author: Alassante · Races:
Elves: Noldor Fixed-Length Ficlets · ID: 260
Reviewer: Dawn Felagund · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 4
"Out, Damn'd Spot! Out, I Say!" is a touching interaction between
Celebrimbor and Maedhros where the first is shaken and hurt by his
deeds at Alqualonde. While this is a common plot event in Silmfic,
Alassante's version shows not only the trauma that many of the
Feanorians would have experienced from their deeds but also their
lingering humanity, in spite of what they had done. There is still
capacity to love and empathize, and that makes the dark road onto
which they have just stepped all the more tragic.

Title: Broken Star · Author: pandemonium_213 · Races: Villains:
Fixed-Length Ficlets · ID: 54
Reviewer: viv · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 4
This is excellent. You write the dark lord very, very well. I could
see his self-righteousness and confidence, but also his regret
(subsumed, of course, by his ambitions). Even suppressed, that regret
makes him a sympathetic character, someone I want to read more about.
That is more than Tolkien ever gave him. Thank you for making Sauron
something other than merely black in a world of black and white.

Title: The Kindly Airs · Author: Dwimordene · Times: Late Third Age:
General Fixed-Length Ficlets · ID: 480
Reviewer: viv · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 4
Oooh. I really like the poetic language and in-line alliteration
you've got going on here. Her joy is palpable. Very beautiful writing.

... Oh, golly, I didn't realize who the writer was until I went to
enter this review on the form. It all makes sense now. Of course this
would be excellently crafted, coming from the pen of Dwimordene. You
certainly keep producing a very high level of writing. I'd ask how you
do it, but I hear magicians never give up their secrets.

Title: Possessing the greatest powers · Author: Tanaqui · Times:
Multi-Age: Fixed-Length Ficlets · ID: 387
Reviewer: viv · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 3
I enjoyed the symmetry and the metaphorical language in each disparate
drabble.You certainly painted the specialness of each of these
characters, and their sorrow and elation at finding themselves
suddenly less powerful.

Title: The Visitor · Author: Rowan · Genres: Drama · ID: 174
Reviewer: viv · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 3
I can see this happening to those characters, Elanor and Frodo. Of
*course* Sam would have drummed respect and mystery into his kiddos.
And of course, at least with one of all those offspring, it would have
stuck. It's encouraging to a fan to think that Frodo got the closure
he needed, finally.

Title: An Ordinary Woman · Author: Dawn Felagund · Times: First Age
and Prior: House of Finwe · ID: 32
Reviewer: viv · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 3
How refreshing this vignette is. I love Finrod's voice: he gets right
to the point of things, doesn't he (balrog butt-whuppins aside)? You
know, you've actually portrayed Luthien in a more compelling fashion
than Tolkien ever did, giving her a deep wisdom rather than mere
flashy looks. Very insightful.

Title: Seeing Stars · Author: Raksha the Demon · Times: Fourth Age and
Beyond · ID: 360
Reviewer: viv · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 5
What a lovely moment; I'm so glad you wrote this piece. It speaks to
Faramir's character somewhat more than the typical Faramir stories. I
suppose that all characters benefit from letting their guards down
once in a while, but Faramir is very complex, and each layer seems
guarded again. Which is why getting him absolutely 'faced works so
well! Having him realize that Aragorn was the strong shoulder both for
a dying Boromir and a staggered Faramir was a nice moment, but even
nicer was Faramir's elation at knowing that his son would grow up with
the King and the Tree. This is the life Faramir deserves. Thanks for
giving it to him.

Title: The War of Wrath · Author: Tanaqui · Races: Elves: Drabbles ·
ID: 120
Reviewer: viv · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 3
Woohoo for iambic tetrameter! The rhythm is almost like hoofbeats,
which is perfect for a piece about war and victory. And the subject
matter -- er, that would be war and victory -- is in turn perfect for
the Vanyarin prince. I'm also jazzed that somebody wrote about the
Vanyar; they tend to get overlooked, unless somebody is discussing
hair color.

Title: Now the Green Blade Riseth · Author: annmarwalk · Genres:
Drama: Ring War Drabbles · ID: 37
Reviewer: viv · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 3
This story has such a nice pace and voice. It's almost like I fell
into step beside the Gaffer on a stroll down a cart path in the shire,
and this was something he was going on about. It was reflective and
crochety, but genial also. Peaceful, like.

Title: In The Darkness Of My Dreaming · Author: Cuthalion · Genres:
Alternate Universe: Angst/Tragedy · ID: 284
Reviewer: viv · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 4
What a fascinating what-if! It's almost like watching It's a Wonderful
Life, but with hobbits. Of course, the characters are charming, and
the tone pleasingly poignant, the details earthy and hobbity. I
enjoyed Rosie especially, as well as that underlying sense of female
comaraderie that pervades this piece (and never once wallops a reader
over the head). What a deft hand you have at writing.

Title: No Regrets · Author: Linda Hoyland · Times: Fourth Age and
Beyond: Fixed-Length Ficlets · ID: 490
Reviewer: viv · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 4
What more indeed? It's perfectly fitting that Faramir would spend his
long years as a princeling in a garden, rather than ruling or judging
or warring. He has a mind for poetry and flowers, I think. Tolkien
couldn't have placed him any better, there at the end. Now, if
*Boromir* had been the surving son after the King claimed his throne,
I bet there would have been some regretting going on!

Title: The Shadow · Author: Linda Hoyland · Genres: Drama: Ring War
Drabbles · ID: 25
Reviewer: viv · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 4
*shudder* There's a sense of the horrible about this drabble, that
even in victory and even after all these years, Frodo cannot separate
himself from Gollum. The implication that part of his reason for going
West is to achieve that separation also gives me the chills. I mean,
we all know that Frodo suffered in private, with no one to talk to who
could really understand, but this peek into his brain is so honest and
stark ... no wonder LoTR wasn't first-person from Frodo's POV!
Excellent character piece.

Title: The Sky Is Over · Author: Robinka · Races: Elves: Drabbles · ID: 83
Reviewer: viv · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 4
What a strange quote. Wasn't Galadriel supposed to have a gift of
foresight? But here it is her brother who just knows, and knows the
saddest things. I like that he tries to hold memories with his hands:
Finrod is such a physical creature, very in tune with the physical
world. Also I like that he finds his sister a source of revelation.
Their close relationship is one of the few things that felt strong in
that first crazy exile.

Title: My Legacy · Author: spookystoy · Genres: Drama: General
Drabbles · ID: 407
Reviewer: viv · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 1
So very sweet! I feel the same about my children. They are my greatest
work in this life.

Title: Night Terrors · Author: Gwynnyd · Genres: Drama: Gondor
Fixed-Length Ficlets · ID: 433
Reviewer: viv · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 3
I think all new parents go through that nightly terror that their babe
won't make it till morning. I know I did. And I remember by babies
dreaming of eating, too, their little lips pursing and unpursing. What
a sweet, sweet moment you've captured here.

Title: Upon the Pebbled Shore · Author: aranelgoldenflower · Genres:
Drama: Final Partings · ID: 171
Reviewer: viv · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 3
I like how you framed the Moment, wrapping the angsty middle with a
poetic beginning and ending, symmetrical and lyrical and very very
sad. But how appropriate when you're writing about twins: bookends and
mirrors of each other. Poor Peredhil to have to make such a choice,
and even more so for twins. You've captured the moment nicely.

Title: Refuge · Author: Raksha the Demon · Races: Elves: Noldor
Fixed-Length Ficlets · ID: 423
Reviewer: viv · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 3
What a poignant ficlet. You've drawn Maglor so well, so sensitively.
Of *course* he would sing to them. Of *course* he would save them.
This is about as close as I've come to thinking of a Feanorian as a
hero. Good job!

Title: Two Prisoners · Author: Lord Branwyn · Genres: Alternate
Universe · ID: 724
Reviewer: viv · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 3
Is there more of this? What a fascinating speculation! I loved that
last couple sentences, about their boots not sinking into the mud.
Totally elves! And which side are they on, hmm? And is the point of
view character the Professor himself? I hope you'll write more of
this; it's very compelling.

Title: Hammer · Author: Aranel Took · Races: Dwarves: Drabbles · ID: 468
Reviewer: viv · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 3
Oh, what fun! You know, the way you've depicted Gloin's hottie, she's
still adorable even with the beard. Thank you for that. I love reading
about dwarves, even when they express the dopiest pick-up lines in the
book.

Title: The Wedding Gift · Author: annmarwalk · Genres: Romance: Other
Fixed-Length Ficlets · ID: 40
Reviewer: viv · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 3
So very sweet! I like the notion that dwarves made only useful things,
never frivolous bits. But, in the end, this isn't frivolous at all:
it's a gift, and very romantic. Where did you get the name Nandi? It
sounds very dwarf-like (well, at least as far as they are called by
non-dwarves). I dig it. Hooray: Gloin/OFC! This dwarf fan just had a
woohoo moment.

Title: Leather · Author: Marta · Genres: Romance: Other Fixed-Length
Ficlets · ID: 297
Reviewer: viv · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 3
That drabble about Finduilas is gut-wrenching and very telling: I can
trace how the character Boromir could have been shaped by such a
moment. He didn't go in for poetry much, after that, did he? Poor
little lad.

Title: MAGIC: The Password · Author: Fiondil · Genres: Humor: Elven
Lands · ID: 451
Reviewer: viv · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 3
Poor, long-suffering Mrs Thranduil! I liked her quite a lot, actually.
I can see how someone as fiery (and absentminded, apparently) as
Thranduil needs a calming influence such as his lady. And avian
messengers offending Thranduil's inner Luddite? Brilliant!

Title: Loving a Book Lover · Author: Avon · Genres: Romance: Drabbles
· ID: 721
Reviewer: viv · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 1
Hee. I have a pretty good idea what Eowyn was up to. Nice innuendo there!

Title: Star of Hope · Author: Linda Hoyland · Times: Mid Third Age:
Eriador · ID: 34
Reviewer: viv · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 6
I love the authorial choice to "do" Gilraen in first-person, and even
better is how well it worked. She is deferent but so full of hope
herself, it's no wonder she ultimately became Estel's mother. Her
relationship with Arathorn, which could have seemed awkward
considering the difference in their ages and his status among their
people, seemed protective and warm instead. The bookend of the scene
with Elrond also worked very well. After generations of watching after
his brother's offspring, Elrond would of course know the human
traditions, but he might not realize the intimate details, that
sometimes humans *do* know when their children were conceived.
Excellent exchange between Gilraen and the Lord of Rivendell. I hope
you'll consider writing more about Gilraen and Aragorn's childhood.
You have a talent for setting that scene.

Title: Rebirth · Author: Aranel Took · Genres: Poetry: Late Third Age
· ID: 471
Reviewer: viv · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 3
An ent might call this hasty; I call it pithy. Regardless, it evokes
exactly what it ought: the joy in new growth and the metaphor of
plants extruding into the rebirth of ages, kingdoms, hopes, and life
in general.

Title: PROPHECY: Changing the Future · Author: Fiondil · Genres: Humor
· ID: 11
Reviewer: viv · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 3
I chuckled at Mandos's well-deserved pride in his prophecy-crafting
abilites. But the real kicker here was the meta-ness of the ficlet,
expressed clearly in the notes following the story. You aren't just
making a joke: you're making a joke *about the source material*. Clever!

Title: A Little Misunderstanding · Author: Radbooks · Races:
Cross-Cultural: Elves and Men · ID: 275
Reviewer: viv · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 3
What lovely characterizations. The Sons of Elrond here were very like
they were in Tolkien's book. In enjoyed getting to spend a little time
with them, characterized that way (instead of the OOC pranksters that
are so common in fanfiction). I could very easily believe that Elladan
retained guilt at Arathorn's death.

Title: Promises Broken and Kept · Author: periantari · Genres: Drama:
Featuring Frodo or Sam · ID: 144
Reviewer: viv · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 2
... and it did. :) Nice explanation of the relationship between Merry
and Frodo. It lived in subtext and between the lines in Tolkien's
work, but it comes to life here. Thank you.

Title: Summer's Lease · Author: Raksha the Demon · Genres: Romance:
Gondor · ID: 650
Reviewer: viv · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 3
Love the wicked hint of voyeurism here, as she watches them. Plus,
what a thing to see! Rowr. But the real gem of this piece is Eowyn
studying the wet, mucles chests of these two hotties and thinking with
admiration... about the draw weight of Faramir's bow. How very Eowynish!

Title: Choices · Author: brindlemom2 · Times: First Age and Prior ·
ID: 184
Reviewer: viv · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 3
The angsty part of me loves this moment in the Tolkien mythology, the
moment when the twins part for ever, and Elrond determines that he
will always watch over his brother's children. I think your short
descriptions of both brothers were right on. Thanks for this peek. It
was bittersweet.

Title: As Was Dwarven Tradition · Author: Nieriel Raina · Races:
Dwarves · ID: 553
Reviewer: viv · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 4
Spoilers!
Dude, I'd love to show up for one of these traditional dwarvish
two-hundredth birthday soirees! They sound like a lot of fun (mostly
of the imbibing variety). But I can definitely see how Gimli's
thorough enjoyment of the evening would be dampened by the absence of
his friend. Awwwww. And there's Gimli getting all teary eyed at the
end! *happy sniffle* Thank you for this ficlet; I enjoyed it very
much, and not even *just* because it featured dwarves and was all
about dwarven traditions. ;)

Title: A Great Cause for Concern · Author: Alassante · Races:
Cross-Cultural: Post-Ring War · ID: 682
Reviewer: Ainaechoiriel · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 3
Spoilers!
A very nice story, funny in parts but beautifully written in others,
as when Galadriel speaks of Legolas' and Gimli's friendship. And the
last paragraph. I liked also that Aule wished to speak with Gimli for
awhile to catch up with his children.

Title: Dance of the Deer and Mûmak · Author: Nieriel Raina · Races:
Cross-Cultural: Post-Ring War · ID: 559
Reviewer: Ainaechoiriel · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 2
Cute story. I liked the descriptions of the dance and each other's
point-of-view of the other dancing. Nice work.

Title: Twentynine White Horses · Author: Jael · Races: Elves: Mirkwood
Elves · ID: 557
Reviewer: Ainaechoiriel · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 3
An endearing story about losing teeth. Well, for Elves anyway. It
almost hurts to think of beautiful Legolas with a gap. Ah, but at
least he's not a Mortal! Good fun and a lovely story.

Title: --and it was done · Author: Neoinean · Genres: Adventure · ID: 527
Reviewer: Ainaechoiriel · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 4
Wow, the writing was … different in style but I liked it. The sentence
fragments and choppiness in places gave the sense of urgency, pulled
me in to how Aragorn felt. I loved the little bits of wandering
Aragorn's mind went to and how he reasoned what he had to do. Very
good story all the way around. And though I do love a good torture
story as much as the next, I do like that this time, the rescue went
off without a hitch.

Title: MAGIC: The Password · Author: Fiondil · Genres: Humor: Elven
Lands · ID: 451
Reviewer: Ainaechoiriel · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 2
Since it's humor, I forgive that inane password. It was funny. And the
way the queen serenely replied… Cute.

Title: Bad Idea · Author: StarLight9 · Genres: Humor: Elven Lands ·
ID: 610
Reviewer: Ainaechoiriel · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 2
Spoilers!
I wasn't sure I liked the idea that it was Legolas' very bad idea but
in the end, it did make me smile. Good show.

Title: And so our friendship began... · Author: Amarok · Races:
Cross-Cultural: Elves and Men · ID: 281
Reviewer: Ainaechoiriel · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 3
Interesting use of first person, not an easy thing to carry off,
especially with an Elf, but I began to feel comfortable with it as the
story went on. I like this dangerous side of Legolas. He's too often
painted as just beautiful. So good use of that and a worthy effort to
explain his and Aragorn's friendship.

Title: Hold To Hope · Author: Nieriel Raina · Times: Late Third Age ·
ID: 709
Reviewer: Ainaechoiriel · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 3
Spoilers!
A believable story for Thranduil receiving the news that Legolas did
not return from Imladris. Touching scene of Thranduil holding
Legolas's first bow, and good mention that there would be forthcoming war.

Title: A Perfect Impression · Author: weepingnaiad · Times: Second and
Early Third Age · ID: 494
Reviewer: Ainaechoiriel · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 1
A nice beginning to little Legolas' life.


Title: Hidden Watcher · Author: kitt_otter · Genres: Drama · ID: 702
Reviewer: Ainaechoiriel · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 3
I'd read this one before elsewhere. It was just as good the second
time. Very good last line. I liked that Legolas could sense him, his
patience and stealth. And that Aragorn suspected.

Title: The Houseless · Author: Jael · Genres: Horror · ID: 178
Reviewer: Ainaechoiriel · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 2
Very nice retelling of a familiar tale. I at first had some fear of
what the houseless one was going to do, but then suspected it might
end like that familiar tale. Very nicely done.

Title: Shadows · Author: Bodkin · Races: Elves: Family · ID: 698
Reviewer: Ainaechoiriel · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 2
The single-quotes distracted but otherwise, a finely written story. It
was interesting getting his mother's spirit's perspective.

Title: Parting Gifts · Author: Fiondil · Races: Cross-Cultural:
Post-Ring War · ID: 452
Reviewer: Ainaechoiriel · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 3
Spoilers!
Oh, good thing I was on lunch break, because tears were streaming down
my cheeks by the end of this. It's a time I've thought about but never
so fully, when Legolas would lose his last Mortal friend. Gimli's
passing was beautifully done. Good job.

Title: Fulfilling Oaths · Author: Nieriel Raina · Times: Multi-Age ·
ID: 332
Reviewer: Ainaechoiriel · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 2
Spoilers!
Beautiful story, tying together such a long thread from the sad final
days of Finrod to the passing of Aragorn and Legolas' journey. Lovely,
nearly brought a tear to my eye.

Title: Whatever Harm Encroached · Author: Nieriel Raina · Times:
Second and Early Third Age · ID: 708
Reviewer: Ainaechoiriel · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 3
Spoilers!
I love a good Thranduil. So many want to paint him differently but
this is the Thranduil I know. Holding off the shadow and anything else
that would seek to harm his people. Even the weather.

Title: Seaworthy · Author: Thundera Tiger · Races: Elves: Mirkwood
Elves · ID: 349
Reviewer: Ainaechoiriel · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 3
Spoilers!
I read this one quite some time ago and found it interesting. An
intriguing look at Imrahil and how Legolas learned to build a ship and
sail it. Though not until his friendships on Middle-Earth had passed.

Title: In Search of Stillness · Author: Bodkin · Races: Elves:
Mirkwood Elves · ID: 704
Reviewer: Ainaechoiriel · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 3
Spoilers!
Beautiful. Just beautiful. The banter was perfect (apart from the
single-quotes) and the friendship felt just right between these two. I
loved the concern Gimli had for Legolas and his tricking Legolas to
take a trip home out of that concern. It was beautiful.

Title: Here's To The King! · Author: Jael · Genres: Humor: Elven Lands
· ID: 204
Reviewer: Ainaechoiriel · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 3
Spoilers!
Oh that was far more funny than I thought it was going to be.
Especially the end, the baths, the wolf's pup…. Too funny! Poor
Naruthir. Will they never tell him the truth? I loved Legolas'
reactions, from the so tired he didn't want to bother to the desire to
kill his prisoner in secret. Or in jest. Loved it.

Title: The Misty Month · Author: Le Rouret · Races: Cross-Cultural:
Post-Ring War · ID: 454
Reviewer: Ainaechoiriel · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 3
Spoilers!
Being uncomfortable with childbirth myself, I found part of this story
uncomfortable, but not because it wasn't well written. Just because of
myself. It was a very well-written story and a very different look at
Legolas. I liked it though. And his getting to name the girl.

Title: Wormtongue · Author: Mariole · Races: Villains · ID: 240
Reviewer: viv · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 5
Wow. That's some intense stuff, right there. It was impossible to feel
sorry for either Lotho or Grima, and yet ... I did. And I felt dirty
for it. That was what you were going for, wasn't it? Tricksy! I really
want to go on about this story, because it was so approrpiately bleak
and horrible. Typically, I try to keep reviews pithy and to the point,
but, because of the nature of MEFA, I find myself repeating (please
excuse me). But it all boils down to this: this story, for all its
darkness and despite the fact that it's emotionally difficult to read,
is an excellent piece of writing.

Title: Healing the Long Cleeve · Author: TopazTook · Genres: Longer
Works · ID: 133
Reviewer: grey_wonderer · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 10
This is a wonderful, well-written, romantic story that involves the
marriage of Peregrin Took to Diamond of Long Cleeve. The author has
put a great deal of detail into the story and the chapters are a nice
length so that the reader has time to become involved in the story.
Each chapter has a clever title that makes reference to aspects of
diamonds in one way or another. The story takes what I found to be a
rather different look at Pippin's marriage and much of the story is
told from Diamond's point of view with her thoughts and feelings
revealed to the reader. This was one of the first stories that I read
by this author and I was very entertained by her writing style. The
characters are very fleshed out very well, even the ones that are only
mentioned in passing by Tolkien. The story is twenty-seven chapters in
length and has author's notes at the end which I always enjoy because
it gives you some background on the story or the reasons for the
story. I have read many romance stories that feature Pippin and
Diamond but this one stands out for me. Diamond is young and not at
all experience and Pippin is very patient and very understanding with
her. It is a lovely look at the way in which the two of them begin to
build a relationship and it is also interesting to see the responses
of their friends and family. I won't say more about the story itself
because I don't want to spoil it in any way. Lets just say that if you
enjoy romance or if you like stories about Pippin then this is one you
do not want to miss!

Title: Pip-napped! · Author: Dreamflower/Lindelea CoAuthors · Genres:
Adventure · ID: 669
Reviewer: grey_wonderer · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 4
I simply love this story. This one contains a great deal of action and
a great deal of suspense, two entertaining elements that I believe
make for a very engaging fiction. This is a very entertaining story by
two very talented writers and in my opinion this one is a must read!
The two authors collaborate beautifully on this story and it reads as
if only one person wrote it because it all fits together so very well.
I have read this one more than once and enjoyed it every time.

Title: Answering the Call · Author: docmon · Genres: Drama · ID: 340
Reviewer: Ainaechoiriel · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 2
Interesting takes on each of the Fellowship taking the ring. And most
of them ended terribly. Interestingly, Gimli's actually ended with at
least some hope.

Title: Old Friends · Author: Marta · Times: Fourth Age and Beyond:
Fixed-Length Ficlets · ID: 651
Reviewer: Ainaechoiriel · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 1
Spoilers!
Good drabble of Gandalf's feelings just as Legolas and Gimli arrive.

Title: The Librarian · Author: Jay of Lasgalen · Races: Elves: Family
· ID: 700
Reviewer: Ainaechoiriel · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 2
Cute story. Every once in a while I need a cute Legolas elfling story
to balance out the heavy stuff and this one did the trick nicely.

Title: Seas of Fate · Author: Thundera Tiger · Races: Cross-Cultural:
Elves and Men · ID: 487
Reviewer: Ainaechoiriel · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 3
Spoilers!
I think I liked this tale of Imrahil, Legolas, and the sea better than
any other I'd read. Imrahil reaches to Legolas with understanding and
Legolas hears no reproach but wise counsel. Very nicely done.

Title: Upon the Pebbled Shore · Author: aranelgoldenflower · Genres:
Drama: Final Partings · ID: 171
Reviewer: Ainaechoiriel · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 1
Spoilers!
Sad to think the twins should part, but intriguing as it ties to their
father and his twin.

Title: With Many "Fond" Acknowledgments · Author: Thundera Tiger ·
Genres: Humor · ID: 472
Reviewer: Ainaechoiriel · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 3
Spoilers!
Oh, funny indeed! Yes, it can be hard to write about your friends
(without changing the names to fool them) without them wanting to
change what you write! So funny to see the three Hunters bickering
with Sam over it, and then Faramir, too. Lots of fun!

Title: With Hope and Without Hope · Author: docmon · Genres:
Adventure: Incomplete · ID: 466
Reviewer: Ainaechoiriel · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 3
Spoilers!
This story has me on the edge of my seat. The despair is real and hard
to take but the author throws the reader a bone now and then, the
cheer of a hobbit, the escape of two. I hope this one gets updated and
finished ASAP! I keep hoping for a Ent to show up. Or Gandalf. I still
hope for a happy ending despite all the non-happy middle.

Title: The Prisoner of Dol Guldur · Author: Soledad · Genres: Drama:
Final Partings · ID: 102
Reviewer: Ainaechoiriel · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 3
Spoilers!
This was a beautiful, hard story to read. It was deeply sad and yet
hopeful as well. I loved the history Soledad brought out in it, the
very old Faithful, the notes from the text to remind us, the Ents
coming north. There was no quick fix for the poor Prisoner and it
would have been wrong if there was. Trauma doesn't just shake off.
Well done.

Title: Switch · Author: Tena · Genres: Humor: Valar & Maiar · ID: 562
Reviewer: Sivan Shemesh · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 4
I love the way you wrote in this particular story, made me laugh all
the way.

Sometimes though i wonder if anyone of them just wish to stay in that
state and remain in other shoes (imagine how funny that will be plus
to play that with the twins...)

Great story, and i'm glad that they were together in the end...

Tena, write more humor such this one, as i love to read all your fics.

Title: A Sleep Over · Author: Phyncke · Times: First Age and Prior:
House of Finwe · ID: 160
Reviewer: Jules14 · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 4
Very funny! This story is a perfect portrayal of two little girls
playing together: Galadriel's bossiness, the way Galadriel loves to
scare people, and Aredhel getting upset and running to tattle to her
father. It reminded me that even the most powerful people in "The
Silmarillion" were little children at one point, with all the positive
and negative personality traits of little children. I admit, though,
it is hard to connect this portrait of Aredhel with the brave,
impetuous elf-woman she'd eventually become! Excellent job.

Title: Orc Dreams · Author: Tanaqui · Races: Villains: Fixed-Length
Ficlets · ID: 448
Reviewer: viv · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 2
Well, it stands to reason that orcs would have dreams. I'd just never
imagined one before. What a fascinating peek into the mind of an orc!

Title: The Waker · Author: Nancy Brooke · Races: Villains:
Fixed-Length Ficlets · ID: 287
Reviewer: viv · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 3
Words like "plunk" and "flick" and "slish" evoke the setting, the
mood, both dark and sad. And that last line confirms that the sad note
was intentional. It wanted a name! You know, this could be the lament
of any number of Tolkien villains. Misunderstood, all.

Title: Moon Over Water · Author: Avon · Genres: Drama: Final Partings
· ID: 518
Reviewer: pipkinsweetgrass · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 4
Tis is an absolutely beautifully crafted story written with as much
love of the craft as of the source material and characters. Moreover,
is is written with respect, a thing rare and delightful to find in fan
fiction, and I cannot praise this work or the author enough for it. It
is almost mythopoetical form, use of language and imagery and is an
altogether good read.

Title: Shelter From the Storm · Author: SlightlyTookish · Races:
Cross-Cultural: Friendship · ID: 315
Reviewer: pipkinsweetgrass · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 4
Okay, okay, everybody knows it, I'm a sucker for just this kind of
story with exactly these three characters, but I'm not about to let
that stop me, mainly because this is a fine example of just such a
story! Boromir is the only member of the Fellowship with no knowledge
of Hobbits, so he is the perfect character to bounce hobbity writing
off of. Among other things. Ahem.

Title: The Stranger · Author: Nieriel Raina · Genres: Drama: Featuring
the Noldor · ID: 560
Reviewer: viv · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 6
There's a lot to like in this ficlet, so I'll just tick off the ooohs
without trying to be orderly (or even coherent). First, I much liked
the notion of elves wearing "britches." That word just set the scene
so well, really lulled me into the point-of-view character's mind.
Because, after all, this isn't *entirely* modern-day, is it? *grin* I
grinned when Jack initiated one of those comparing-scars games with
the, er mystery man on the beach (will restrain myself from giving
vital details, because I really don't want to have to check this
review as containing spoilers). The last couple of paragraphs were
also very touching, a promise of a happy ending where Tolkien didn't
give us much to hope for. Thank you for that. And the footnote about
Jack: hee!

Title: Nerdanel's Sons · Author: Istarnie · Races: Elves: Incomplete ·
ID: 659
Reviewer: Dawn Felagund · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 6
I was once told that stories set in Aman before the Darkening must be
boring because nothing much was going on. Istarnie's distinctively
lyrical fiction disproves that. With an impressive knowledge of canon
minutia and an undeniable skill at weaving it into a tale uniquely her
own, Istarnie begins to breathe life into the enigmatic and
controversial Feanorians in her start to this novel, often breaking
fanon in surprising and delightful ways.

Even better, the story is told from the point of view of Nerdanel, a
character much-written and rarely captured in a way that feels truly
genuine to me. Istarnie's Nerdanel is well done: wise and strong, a
fitting wife for the fiery Feanaro, both a craftsperson and a mother.

For fans of the House of Feanor, this novel is definitely one to watch.

Title: Ed'ledhron · Author: Elanor Silmarien · Races: Hobbits · ID: 392
Reviewer: Jules14 · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 2
A very pretty story about Frodo learning to trust Iluvatar. The idea
of Elrond comforting Frodo was lovely as well.

Title: Don't Explain · Author: gwidhiel · Races: Elves: Incomplete ·
ID: 289
Reviewer: NeumeIndil · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 6
Spoilers!
I'll be the first to admit a decided weakness in my knowledge of the
Silmarillion. I've read it, once, and it stuck in the way of history
books or classics for my college literature classes: the major
happenings are fresh enough in my mind, but the details are gone. I
don't quite remember who half of these characters are, and their
Quenya names are mostly unfamiliar to me, but that difficulty was
untangled by the second or third chapter. This piece seems driven by
detail in combination with a strong undercurrent of curiosity,
striking me as very innately elvin. I love that Feanaro's first word
was actually "light"; it says much of what his character must have
been like then as well as what wonderful and terrible things he would
do later.

Title: Child of Hope · Author: Galadriel · Races: Men: Steward's
Family · ID: 97
Reviewer: Avon · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 2
A sweet story with a slight surprise at the end. I couldn't honestly
understand why what was happening was happening - but the descriptions
were great.

Title: Renewal · Author: Elena Tiriel · Times: Late Third Age: General
Fixed-Length Ficlets · ID: 208
Reviewer: viv · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 1
There's a rhythm to this piece when you read it out loud, almost like
poetry. Nifty!

Title: Pirates Ye Be Warned · Author: Imhiriel · Races: Men: Gondor
Drabbles · ID: 353
Reviewer: viv · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 3
The blood spatter, I suppose, should be enough to remind us that the
pirate wasn't a jolly smexy sort like Capt Jack. But still, Imrahil
felt really *stuffy*. I wanted to pull the pole outta his ... well,
suffice to say I had some sympathy for the pirate who, after all,
offered to share his swill! hee.

Title: Last Stroke · Author: Elena Tiriel · Genres: Alternate
Universe: Drabbles · ID: 465
Reviewer: viv · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 2
Wow, that was a lot of old-timey nautical verbiage (and old-style
semicolon usage) right there! You were channeling the professor,
weren't you? hee

Title: Taking Roots · Author: Imhiriel · Genres: Romance: Drabbles ·
ID: 367
Reviewer: viv · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 2
This is a fresh take on Galadriel and Celeborn: her being timid and
uncertain, and him being reassuring and confident. Interesting and
well-realized!

Title: Old Friends · Author: Marta · Times: Fourth Age and Beyond:
Fixed-Length Ficlets · ID: 651
Reviewer: viv · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 4
This has to be one of the best drabbles I've read in this contest (and
I've read a few). It has the crucial twist at the end, though it's a
gentle twist, and it boasts the excruciating attention to detail in
word choices that make drabbles – good drabbles – an art form. For
instance, I loved how his [bushy] brows [furled]: I knew right away
who the point-of-view character was when I read that line. And the
metaphor "[The exiles pounded against Valinor's shores as persistently
as the waves]" summed up his mental state and thousands of years of
Valinorean history in one pithy, perfect sentence. Excellent drabble!

Title: Sharing Good News · Author: Imhiriel · Genres: Humor: Drabbles
· ID: 216
Reviewer: viv · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 5
I almost skipped this one after reading that sort of bumpy first line
(was it intended as a metaphor? but something so dark and serious
wouldn't really sit with this story, or would it?), but I'm so glad I
stuck with it and read the whole thing. The characterizations of both
Bilbo and young!Aragorn were charming, and I can totally believe,
given the hints at their friendship that we saw during the Council of
Elrond, that Aragorn would have wanted Bilbo to know this nugget of
information. Lovely work (though I would go back and give that opening
line a second glance)!

Title: Incarnation · Author: Gandalfs apprentice · Genres: Humor:
Drabbles · ID: 242
Reviewer: viv · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 5
Poor Gandalf! It must have been a bit of a transition for someone with
floaty only partially substatial "raiment" to get used to having a
mortal body, with all the accompanying frailties. You've captured
excellently the level of sacrifice he endured for the sake of his
mission. (I wonder if Tolkien thought of God incarnating as Christ
when he did a similar thing with Gandalf? When I read this drabble, I
had a fleeting thought of Christ as a character who might have endured
similar incarnation pitfalls.) At any rate, all theological supposings
aside, this was a charming drabble and a provocative look at Gandalf
(who, at least in my opinion, isn't written nearly enough in fic).
Good work!

Title: Fatherhood · Author: annmarwalk · Genres: Humor: Drabbles · ID: 547
Reviewer: viv · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 4
As an aunt of a six-year-old, I had a moment of pause when I read that
she was pouring honey... and then I let out a breath of relief when I
realized that you had *not* written "head." hee. Altough, at six, I
suppose children are very mature, at least compared to preschoolers
and toddlers and such. At any rate, I think Imrahil is quite right:
she's ready for a pony (though not quite for marriage!). I loved this
peek into Imrahil's daddy-brain.

Title: Terra Incognita · Author: Branwyn (Lady Branwyn) · Genres:
Humor: Drabbles · ID: 723
Reviewer: viv · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 7
This is exceptional, and not just as a drabble but also as a story
teaser. Have you ever thought of expanding it? The subject matter is
fascinating, at least to me, and you have such a deft hand at setting
the scene. The smell of [woolen socks] indeed! Plus, the dialogue bits
were sparkling, working at least as well as the descriptions at
setting the scene. I assume that the peculiar officer here is Tolkien
himself, yes? He is characterized every well, very much in a
show-not-tell fashion. And the twist at the end, the "funny" part...
actually *was* funny. Lots of things that are classified as humour
just aren't that amusing -- that is, they don't make *me* chuckle,
which could always be a casualty of my poor sense of humour, actually
-- but this humor piece is very amusing. Not cackle-out-loud
laugh-inducing, but wringing a good solid chuckle from me nonetheless.
Thank you! This drabble is such an excellent example of good, solid
writing. It makes me want to read more of your work. Very enjoyable
and intriguing!

Title: Horse Sense · Author: Branwyn (Lady Branwyn) · Genres: Humor:
Elven Lands · ID: 22
Reviewer: viv · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 3
A fair and gentle portrayal of Gimli (and indeed all dwarves, vis a
vis their care of animals). How nice it is to imagine that Bill the
Pony and Gimli were able to hit it off. (Also, since I'm not a horse
person, I can only imagine that all those horsey terms were used
properly. Regardless, they impressed me! hee.)

Title: I Ain't Got Nobody · Author: Ignoble Bard · Genres: Humor:
Valar & Maiar · ID: 568
Reviewer: viv · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 6
I love this. Love it like a loving things that loves... things. Well,
you get the idea. I laughed. Out loud. Several times. Oh, the
wonderfulness! I dig that Glorfindel's new body is tight in the
crotch, that he can't seem to stay embodied longer than a flea lives,
and that Namo is becoming increasingly irked by it all. Also, I dig
the fact that fear (with the umlaut over the e, of course) can
shrug... who knew? And that Valar floss their teeth (again with the
who knowing). Plus, somebody has to award points to a story that uses
the word [boffo] in context (oh look: just did). And the straw. The
straw!
Oh-my-god-am-about-to-bust-my-guts-but-in-the-best-possible-way. *deep
breathing* Yes. Love it. All of it. And to think that this sprung from
the same brain as the impossible smugness of being (Feanor). You'se
brilliant! Please to write more of this goodness, yes?

Title: Call of the Wild · Author: annmarwalk · Genres: Romance:
Drabbles · ID: 94
Reviewer: viv · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 4
This is the crummy part of MEFA (and it's a small one): A story like
this screams for a one-word review. But if I left it a one-word
review, you might get to thinking that it isn't a lovely drabble, and
it is. It really is. The descriptions are nice, the interior
italicized thoughts are effective the characters are well-drawn. But
all of that, really can be summed up with one word. And so, having
dithered enough that you know this review is far from an insult, here
it is: ROWR.

Title: A Great Cause for Concern · Author: Alassante · Races:
Cross-Cultural: Post-Ring War · ID: 682
Reviewer: Amarok · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 4
Spoilers!
That is a very nice little story about how Legolas and Gimli arrive in
the Undying Lands. I enjoyed especially Galadriel's interference. And
of course I loved the reason why Aule allowed Gimli to stay in the
end: because of friendship and loyalty.

That Legolas now is viewed as someone causing trouble I find rather
amusing. He indeed is in good company with Gandalf. I loved the end.


Title: Parting Gifts · Author: Fiondil · Races: Cross-Cultural:
Post-Ring War · ID: 452
Reviewer: Amarok · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 6
Spoilers!
Oh, that is a very touching story. I love Gimli's calm acceptance, and
how he even on his death bed tries to aid Legolas, who just needs a
push into the right direction. Sure, the elf knows what to do, but
sometimes it needs a friend to give one a shove to finally do what you
already know is the right thing to do... but I certainly also can
understand Legolas' anger at the univited interference ;-).

This was wonderfully written, I loved the atmosphere. And I loved
Galadriel's appearance, and her reaction to Gimli's gift (as well as
the gift itself..., no wonder he was nervous about it ;-) ). And the
Valar were great also. I really loved the end. That was one of the
best Gimli-interpretations I have read so far, and the contrast of
humour and being sent close to tears was remarkable.

Title: The Blessing · Author: Mews1945 · Genres: Drama: Featuring
Frodo or Sam · ID: 228
Reviewer: Amarok · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 3
Spoilers!
It is nice to read a story from the point of view of an 'unimportant'
character - how he sees the famous ones, Aragorn, Legolas, Samwise and
of course Frodo, but also how he sees the daily heorism of healers and
carers, and the ones who bear their wounds and losses bravely.

Title: All That Remained · Author: Allee · Genres: Drama: Featuring
the Noldor · ID: 155
Reviewer: Amarok · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 8
Spoilers!

Interesting story. And I do not think that either Gilraen or Elladan
behaved unrealistic, even if I had not read the comments at the
beginning. But perhaps that comes from having had a mother who one day
came to her little girl to say 'farewell'. My father caught her before
she went through with her plan, but I know enough to understand what
this story is about.

Anyway, what I really like is that Elladan and Elrohir are not
'identical' here. Happy-ending-lover that I am I am glad they find
their old trust and connection back in the end (or at least it seemed
to me that way), but to see them struggle and cope differently for a
change is good.

The only thing I missed is Elrond in the end (meaning in the last
scene). He still seems on the outside, but he has lost as well, and as
Elrohir commented, has hidden behind a facade. He has his way of
coping, yes, but will it be changed by Estel's and Gilraen's time
there? Or by Elladan's final acceptance of what happened?

That Estel has a minor role here - merely as catalyst - is realistic I
think, and I like it. He is very young still. His time will come later.


Title: Untold Tales of the Mark: The Banishment of Éomer · Author:
Katzilla · Genres: Alternate Universe · ID: 206
Reviewer: Amarok · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 9
Spoilers!
Besides being a very gripping story, this long tale explaines nicely
some of the holes the movie left me with. The way they are described,
I could virtually see Eomer, Eowyn, Grima and the others before my
eyes while I read this.

And the story is also great. Thoughts and insights, as well as action
and fights, betrayal, hope lost and regained..., and even a bit of
humour now and then - everything such a tale needs is in it - and I
have only read the first third of it as of yet.

I especially like Firefoot. What a horse! Intelligent but with an
attitude. Half-Meara indeed :-).

And I very much love the different people you invented, for example
the pair, Thea and Forlorn, who aided Eomer despite the danger to
them. Or the handmaiden who aids Eowyn. Not to forget all the noble
Rohirrim who are loyal to Eomer despite him being banned. They all
have a personality of their own, some more likable and some less, and
I like that a lot.

Ok, now I am off to continue to read...

PS: after having finished the whole epic tale (all but the too dark
parts) I still think it is a great story. AU, yes, but in a good way,
the major events could still continue just where this story ends.

Title: I Stand No Longer Alone · Author: Larner · Races: Men: Minas
Tirith · ID: 62
Reviewer: Amarok · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 3
That was very interesting. It took me a while to realize who does the
thinking/talking in this story. Great idea, and done in quite a nice
way. I liked the interaction, the almost dialogue between them. Surely
'it' and it's Man will rule well :-).

Title: Hope comes for Estel · Author: stefaniab · Genres: Drama:
Featuring Aragorn · ID: 622
Reviewer: Amarok · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 6
Spoilers!
This story focuses for once on what happens to Arnor after Argorn's
coronation, instead of Gondor. I liked that a lot, and even more I
liked how it was done. In Aragorn's musings a much bigger story is
visible, for example in the simple mentioning that he talked about
building a new Annuminas with Arwen. The comparisons of Gondor and
Arnor are also interesting, and how they might react to the less
popular changes a king has to make.

Oh, and how the first 'real' encounter between Aragorn and Faramir is
set up is very much to my liking! Hope and fear, caution at first, and
then real understanding. I love the 'mind-reading' Faramir.

When time allows, I certainly want to visit 'Steffverse' more in
depth, this short tale has made me curious :-).

Title: Eagle of the Star · Author: Neoinean · Genres: Adventure:
Incomplete · ID: 327
Reviewer: Amarok · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 7
Spoilers!
This story already hugely impressed me when I read it on Teitho. I
especially was impressed by the comparisons of healing actions (I
liked the medical details!) with killing actions. Like love and hate,
saving someone and destroying him can lie very closely together, and
in my eyes this whole story centeres around this conflict.

Aragorn seems hard and harsh here - and he is, he has to be - but his
human caring side is also shown very clearly, and I like this
contrast. The hands of a healer, the hands of a killer. He is aware of
that conflict, and he deals with it accrodingly.

Also of course the action is nicely done. It is a mission to save a
friend, against bad odds and at high risk. Legolas' and Aragorn's
interaction when he finally reaches him are amusing to read, despite
the dangerous situation. Of course I also like that it ends well, with
both of them still alive, and I don't miss the background plot that
would explain some 'why's'.

Title: The Vase that was Broken · Author: Linda Hoyland · Genres:
Humor: Gondor · ID: 417
Reviewer: Amarok · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 4
Spoilers!
This is once more a wounderful short story Aragorn and Faramir, a
scene from the early fourth age in Minas Tirith. As usual, one of the
friends comes to the aid of the other, even if it is not a
life-threatening situation for a change.

I like the humour in this, the quib at the 'unobservant' nature of
men, and that Arwen was smat enough to hide the precious vase with a
child in the household. Nicely done, like all your drabbles and stories.

Title: Fidelis · Author: Pentangle · Genres: Drama: Hurt/Comfort · ID: 612
Reviewer: Amarok · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 10
Spoilers!
I have read and reviewed this story before..., and still I find it
hard to put into words what it does to me, how it touches me. A heavy
theme, or rather several heavy themes, masterly done in my eyes.

While reading this the second time, I found myself liking Lenwe not
quite as much as the first time. He is too manipulating for my
(personal) taste, but I think he was very well characterised from a
reader/writer standpoint.

It is very sad that both elves have to die, but I think it was the
right way to write it. All sides of the argument in such a case were
given. Nienor made his wish very clear. My personal believes are that
everyone should be allowed to decide for themselves if they want to
live or not.

Even more than by the death-theme, I was touched by the
friendship-problems of Aragorn and Legloas. One who needs to speak of
his troubles, and the other who needs to distance himself, to shut
them out of his thoughts. How familiar that sounds... I am glad
Aragorn came to Legolas 'rescue' in the end - even though I am like
Legolas and need to speak of my troubles I also know that to open up
when the time is not right is hard or near impossibe.

Luckily the sarcastic Kenuric (good call of Chris to ask you to give
him more background, and of course you did so wonderfully in the
'Badger'-story) provides a bit of humour now and then - and gives good
advice.

Title: Dark Dreams · Author: SlightlyTookish · Races: Hobbits:
Hurt/Comfort · ID: 550
Reviewer: Lily · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 3
This is another very gentle piece that focuses on the friendship of
Merry and Pippin. Slightlytookish shows incredible insight into the
bonds that connect the cousins and the dreadful memories they share -
probably with noone but each other. A lovely story that touches the
heart of the reader.

Title: Incarnation · Author: Gandalfs apprentice · Genres: Humor:
Drabbles · ID: 242
Reviewer: Lindelea · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 2
LOL, nicely done!

You capture the rhythm of language very well, sounding as if it might
have come out of the original somehow. (Perhaps excised by an editor?) *g*

Title: The Portrait · Author: agape4gondor · Races: Men: Pre-Ring War
Fixed-Length Ficlets · ID: 288
Reviewer: Avon · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 1
I liked the descriptive touches - it seemed very real.

Title: Refuge · Author: Raksha the Demon · Races: Elves: Noldor
Fixed-Length Ficlets · ID: 423
Reviewer: Avon · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 4
I really liked this. It makes it very real and captures the fear and
just not-knowing they must have gone through. Elrond and Elros are
well-written because they do seem like real kids, and that does tend
to be unusual in fan fiction. I also like this because it deals with a
little corner of the Tolkien universe that fascinates me - the Elrond,
Elros and Maglor relationship. I particularly liked the link to how
all this helped create the Elrond we know - the keeper of the last refuge.

Title: Blood and Iron · Author: Ribby · Races: Elves: Drabbles · ID: 122
Reviewer: Avon · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 2
That's very nice! Quite amazing what you can catch in just one hundred
words.It is a real killer of a last line. I also liked that repetition
of sounds in the second paragraph.

Title: The Dooming of Small Hands · Author: Thundera Tiger · Times:
Late Third Age · ID: 639
Reviewer: Avon · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 3
That's sad but sweet. It was a terrible choice that was forced upon
Gandalf, and this story truly captures that. It's not just Frodo who
will be forever changed by the journey, but also those who sought to
protect him and could not. A great gap-filler!

Title: Possessing the greatest powers · Author: Tanaqui · Times:
Multi-Age: Fixed-Length Ficlets · ID: 387
Reviewer: Avon · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 1
A clever drabble series. I enjoyed the imagery.

Title: Now the Green Blade Riseth · Author: annmarwalk · Genres:
Drama: Ring War Drabbles · ID: 37
Reviewer: Avon · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 2
Such a sweet, peaceful story. I hate to think of the burning of the
Shire, but this truly shows the hope that peace will come and stay.
Very nicely done, as always.

Title: Courage · Author: annmarwalk · Genres: Humor: Gondor · ID: 41
Reviewer: Avon · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 4
Spoilers!
That's lovely - very sweet. I love that what seems to be a fun story
about Gimli trying something different - oysters, for goodnes sake! -
has a final bitter-sweet twist at the end. Life, by then, will never
be just simple and sweet without a hidden, half-forgotten sting for
Legolas. And that of course means that the sting will always be there,
even if more deeply buried and less understood, for the one who loves
him best.

Title: Bibliophile · Author: Imhiriel · Genres: Romance: Drabbles ·
ID: 370
Reviewer: Avon · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 1
That's very cute - and I like Findulais NOT being seen as a tragedy queen.

Title: Choosing · Author: docmon · Genres: Drama · ID: 473
Reviewer: Avon · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 4
An excellent idea for a series of short fics. All of them were good. I
liked the links back to The Hobbit in the Dwarven one. Thranduil's
pain at his necessary and right decision stood out in the Elven one. I
didn't enjoy the Man one as much, but that's because I hate to see
that in Denethor. All three were very well-written with lovely word
choices as well as good characterisation.

Title: The Kindly Airs · Author: Dwimordene · Times: Late Third Age:
General Fixed-Length Ficlets · ID: 480
Reviewer: Avon · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 1
Such a different idea, and so poetically written. Just lovely.

Title: Diamonds For Forever I, II & III · Author: Elen Kortirion ·
Genres: Romance: Other Fixed-Length Ficlets · ID: 515
Reviewer: Avon · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 3
It's just beautiful writing and imagery. I would be hard put to choose
a favourite line or sentence but perhaps [delicately wreathing bare
branches rimed with diamonds... winter gems for Ecthelion's pale
northern bride] I also particularly enjoyed the description of
Ecthelion's snowy walks in the first drabble. It's a clever idea to
have Arwen create a new heirloom to reflect the new world of hope that
they and their children will now live in.

Title: The King's Colors · Author: Dwimordene · Genres: Alternate
Universe: Steward's Family · ID: 482
Reviewer: Avon · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 4
Beautifully written! The idea is just such an unusual twist and so
well done. I could quote examples of language I loved forever but
here's a simple line that stirred me:
[Duty slipped through his fingers like water]
I loved this line too:
[And all of them standing beneath that splendid-dreadful banner.]

Poor Boromir - so much pain and to see his whole world turned upside
down and his pain and duty brought to naught.

I loved the storyline, but again let me say it was the way you used
words - elegant in its true meaning, beautiful, heart-rending and
incisive.

Title: Comfort · Author: Bodkin · Races: Elves: House of Elrond · ID: 161
Reviewer: Avon · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 3
Lovely images of the twins comforting each other. I enjoyed the
different angle taken on this story - so much less about Arathorn's
death and so much more about the twin's feelings of guilt and sorrow.
So hard for them to be to be so powerful and so helpless. The story
also contains some beautiful word pictures.

Title: Before You Go · Author: Nancy Brooke · Races: Men: Minas Tirith
· ID: 506
Reviewer: Avon · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 4
Gosh, I'm pleased that the MEFAs caused me to find that. You've
written a brilliant Denethor - clever, stubborn, torn by what fate
offers him, loving this eldest son of his even as he sees the
differences between them and unable despite all his power to alter
what must be. Denethor is an incredibly complex character and it is
very nice to see him written as so. I also like the glimpses of
Boromir we get through his actions and through his father's eyes.

Title: Pippin's Secret · Author: shirebound · Races: Hobbits:
Friendship · ID: 599
Reviewer: Avon · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 3
What a clever idea! It's just a simple twist to the accepted canon,
but I haven't seen it done before. I thought Pippin's dialogue was
good - you managed 'young, but not too young' very well.

Title: Concerning Walls · Author: Larner · Races: Cross-Cultural:
Frodo and Faramir · ID: 112
Reviewer: Avon · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 4
Spoilers!
I absolutely loved all the detail you managed to build into this story
- of Hobbits and Hobbit history and of Faramir's life too. That
stonecrop and stars - tiny glimpses of beauty from their life before -
would cheer them is such right idea. I'm with Frodo - if only the
HObbiys would never have to know the true darkness the world is
capable of; that's why the firing of the Shire upsets me so much.
A very nicely written story.

Title: Shall We Dance? · Author: Isabeau of Greenlea · Races: Men:
Steward's Family · ID: 93
Reviewer: Avon · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 5
This is as lovely as all your stories. I love your stories of the
cousins, and long ago lost my heart to your Imrahil. The content of
the story is wonderful, but let me pause a moment on the wrapping -
the words. Such elegant, beatiful word pictures! I love, love, love
all the descriptive touches - I think you'll understand the compliment
when I say that your ball may even have outshone a Georgette Heyer
one. The story itself combines lots of lovely reflective touches of
the past and of canon, yours and Tolkien's with a story deceptive in
its simpleness. An excellent job, all round.

Title: Hope comes for Estel · Author: stefaniab · Genres: Drama:
Featuring Aragorn · ID: 622
Reviewer: Avon · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 2
A very interesting concept for a gap-filler; certainly it seems likely
some such conversation must have occurred.

Title: Steward's Trumpets · Author: Branwyn (Lady Branwyn) · Times:
Late Third Age: Gondor Drabbles · ID: 400
Reviewer: Avon · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 2
Spoilers!
That's very sweet - such a nice way to show renewal. I loved the
description of the flowers - it was a great word picture.

Title: Restoration · Author: Branwyn (Lady Branwyn) · Races: Men:
Minas Tirith · ID: 19
Reviewer: Avon · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 3
That's one of the nicest House of Healing ficlets I've read. It was a
great combination of little details - Elrond's knowledge, the tired
and dirty soldier, the tan on Faramir's wrist still - with hints of a
new future to come. Well done.

Title: Drawing the Eye · Author: Linda Hoyland · Times: Late Third Age
· ID: 569
Reviewer: Avon · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 1
I particularly enjoyed the descriptive aspects of this story.

Title: Mournful Fords · Author: Imhiriel · Genres: Drama: Ring War
Drabbles · ID: 368
Reviewer: Avon · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 2
An interesting idea - it is indeed a pity that Tolkien gave us no
reaction from Theoden. It must have been hard to live with the
knowledge that he had let his son as well as his land down.

Title: Tree of Knowledge · Author: Nancy Brooke · Times: Late Third
Age: Gondor Drabbles · ID: 172
Reviewer: Avon · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 4
Spoilers!
Oh that's so beautiful! The words, the imagery, the idea... and it's
got a killer last line. I could read pages of writing this beautiful.
It really is poetical. This is another treasure I'm glad to have
unearthed through the MEFAs. For Denthor to know that... I really
liked also the linking of Denethor and Elrond through their 'sons'.
You've done a wonderful job with it, Nancy.

Title: Fidelis · Author: Pentangle · Genres: Drama: Hurt/Comfort · ID: 612
Reviewer: Ainaechoiriel · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 4
Spoilers!
I wasn't sure what to think of this one first. The prequel was well
written, with wonderous descriptions. The second was so much heavier
and yet still very well crafted. Legolas and Aragorn felt very much in
character and Kenuric had become familiar. Lenwe was intriguing and
Lenwe, well, perhaps too beautiful, but a deep character as well. The
struggle between life and death, suicide and loss of will to live was
well played out.

Title: Oathbreakers · Author: Thundera Tiger · Times: Late Third Age ·
ID: 470
Reviewer: Ainaechoiriel · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 3
Interesting perspective here, allowing for the Mannish side of Elladan
on the eve of the Paths of the Dead. I enjoyed his discussion with
Elrohir, both brought up good points and worries.

Title: A Cat in King Elessar's Court · Author: agape4gondor · Races:
Cross-Cultural: Friendship · ID: 66
Reviewer: Ainaechoiriel · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 3
Spoilers!
Being a cat person, I loved having this cat's point of view. I did
think the ending harsh, as I wanted to see his little heirs before the
end, to make sure the line went unbroken. Still it was a good story
and I felt it stuck to canon quite closely.


Title: The Weight of Power · Author: Nefhiriel · Times: Mid Third Age
· ID: 325
Reviewer: Calenlass Greenleaf · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 3
I've known only a few young fanfic authors who are able to write so
masterfully as Nefhiriel. The portrayal of Aragorn is deft, and all
original characters--both good and evil--are well-rounded. The story
is long, but worth the read.

Title: Kin-Strife · Author: Isabeau of Greenlea · Genres: Drama:
Incomplete · ID: 92
Reviewer: obsidianj · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 6
This story tells the beginning of the friendship between Imrahil of
Dol Amroth and Andrahar of Harad, an OC. Pretty much the whole story
is populated be original characters or characters which are more or
less just names in Tolkien's work with some exceptions like Denethor
and Thorongil. All the characters in this story are well fleshed out
and especially Andrahar develops a life of his own in this and
subsequent stories in this universe.

The contrast between Imrahil, the reckless(and a bit spoiled) Heir to
Dol Amroth, and Andrahar, a street rat in Umbar, although with a noble
background, couldn't be greater. But these two complement each other.
Where Imrahil is too rash, Andrahar may be a bit too cautious.

The story has everything I could wish for, culture clash, a mysterious
stranger, and courtship. I hope it will be finished soon.

Title: Gone Amiss · Author: Raksha the Demon · Genres: Drama: Ring War
Drabbles · ID: 44
Reviewer: phyloxena · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 2
Amazingly poetic piece. The image of the water - tide of life,
receding, Aragorn's anguish, mounting, all leading to Boromir's soon
departure.

Title: To Give Hope · Author: peredhil lover · Races: Cross-Cultural:
Elves and Men · ID: 456
Reviewer: obsidianj · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 5
Gilraen arrives at Imladris numb with grief and has to face grave
decisions. I like the way her grief is portrayed and the interweaving
of her last day with Arathorn and with the decision she has to make.
Arathorn is still guiding her, although he is no longer there.

The other thing I like especially about this story is the way the
twins are characterized. They are not just 'the twins' interchangeable
from the outside and from within. Each of them has their own distinct
personality. They may look identical from the outside, but they are
two very different people. Once Gilraen really gets to know them she
should have no trouble telling them apart.

Title: The Revenge of Curufin's Horse · Author: Moreth · Genres: Humor
· ID: 139
Reviewer: nancylea · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 1
Spoilers!
is that what they meant when they coined "straight from the horse's
mouth"?

Title: The Rescue of Celebrian · Author: NeumeIndil · Genres: Drama:
Incomplete · ID: 382
Reviewer: obsidianj · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 3
Spoilers!
This story is intensely emotional. From Celebrian's trauma and madness
to the reactions of her family. Throwing in some orcs with
personality, recognized by Celebrian sent a chill down my spine. I
especially like the characterization of the twins as two different
personalities.

Title: I Ain't Got Nobody · Author: Ignoble Bard · Genres: Humor:
Valar & Maiar · ID: 568
Reviewer: obsidianj · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 2
Spoilers!
LOL! Glorfindel is really accident prone. All the different kind of
ways dying are amusing. The best was the suffocation under the tapestry...

Title: Wedding Nerves · Author: Jay of Lasgalen · Times: Late Third
Age: Gondor · ID: 48
Reviewer: Thundera Tiger · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 4
There are a lot of stories detailing the trials Aragorn had to endure
when he went from Ranger to King, and I never tire of them. This one
is especially good as it plays the narrative on a more subtle note and
lets the dialog handle the story. There is definitely a sense of
what's happening, but mainly it's just the characters interacting,
which makes it all the more endearing.

Title: Sing All Ye People! · Author: Raksha the Demon · Times: Late
Third Age: Gondor · ID: 249
Reviewer: Thundera Tiger · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 6
Spoilers!
If anyone was to pull such subtle nuances from the voice of the Eagle,
it would definitely be Faramir. I found the progression of voices, and
particular the order in which they appear, to be very telling. It's as
though the things for which the departed strived hardest are the
things their voices pertain to. Denethor's long struggle against
Mordor makes him the first herald. Boromir's long watch and his
journey with Aragorn earns him the second verse. Gandalf looks out for
all the children of the West and hopes for a better future both for
the morrow and for years to come, giving him the third verse. The last
verse hearkens back to the promises between Eldar, Edain, and Valar,
which could easily make it Manwe's verse, though Faramir can't be sure
on that point. Simple yet profound as well as very natural given that
its Faramir doing the musing.

Title: Comes the moment to decide · Author: Linda Hoyland · Times:
Late Third Age: Gondor · ID: 418
Reviewer: Thundera Tiger · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 4
Spoilers!
Great insights into the desperate acts that preceded the fall of
Sauron. I was especially intrigued by Denethor receiving a vision of
Faramir emulating Ecthelion in his regard for Aragorn. It does much to
explain some of his decision to burn both himself and his son. But for
me, the best part of the story was the final chapter in which Faramir
names Aragorn as King before the council. Powerful and moving!

Title: For the Want of ... · Author: Larner · Times: Late Third Age:
Gondor · ID: 681
Reviewer: Thundera Tiger · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 5
Spoilers!
It's always nice when someone explores Pippin's mindset during the
War, and it's even nicer when that someone decides to give Pippin a
mature and understanding outlook. This is one such story. Pippin's
reasoning about being the last hobbit able to distract attention from
Frodo and Sam was something that had never occurred to me, and it
makes all the sense in the world. There's not much that Faramir can
say in response to that, especially not when Pippin throws in the
lynch-pin argument, too. I enjoyed seeing both the traditional and the
altered version of the horseshoe nail poems. It definitely seemed to
clinch the debate.

Title: The Lost Restored · Author: Larner · Times: Late Third Age:
Gondor · ID: 59
Reviewer: Thundera Tiger · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 6
Spoilers!
Once the Ring is destroyed, the books seem to forget about Gollum, and
I have to admit that I did, too. He served his purpose and that seemed
to be the end of it. That might be one of the reasons this story hit
me so hard. The first punch was when Gwaihir and Gandalf paused at
Mount Doom to search for a third individual, and it took me a second
to realize who that third could be. I never imagined that they would
hunt for Gollum, but the more I thought about it, the more I
understood that they couldn't do otherwise. And the constant
references to Gollum afterward felt natural and needed. It was as if
the story was truly complete for the first time, because for all his
deception, Smeagol was integral to the Ring's tale, and the story just
wouldn't be finished without his redemption. Because he, too, was a
Ring-bearer, and I must thank Larner for reminding me of this.
Brilliant story!

Title: To Sleep, Perchance to Dream · Author: Ariel/Auntie
Meesh/Budgielover/Cathleen/Dreamflower/Gryffinjack/kellyfrankenfield/Lindelea/Pearl
Took/Rosie Took/SlightlyTookish CoAuthors · Times: Late Third Age:
Gondor · ID: 496
Reviewer: Thundera Tiger · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 4
Spoilers!
With so many authors, it can be difficult to write a single story and
have it work, but these authors seem to have pulled it off. There are
definitely different styles and different takes on the characters, but
the story as a whole does flow and the plot is easy to understand and
compelling. And as I love just about anything with an ensemble cast, I
enjoyed the inclusion of many major characters who each got to
contribute something during the unfolding of the mystery. Very fun.

Title: Giving Gifts · Author: Marta · Genres: Humor: Other
Fixed-Length Ficlets · ID: 426
Reviewer: obsidianj · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 3
LOL! The nightmare of all parents. I love it that Faramir really liked
his gift. Although it seems that, as his mother's son, Imrahil's gift
was painful in more than just one way on the sensitive ears of
Denethor. How long will this subtle war last?

Title: On Amon Sûl · Author: Dreamflower · Genres: Drama: Featuring
Frodo or Sam · ID: 299
Reviewer: obsidianj · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 4
Spoilers!
This is a great gapfiller, for the stabbing at Amon Sul. I love the
way you formatted it to underline Frodo's distance from the real
world. The change between fading into the wraithworld and coming back
to his friends is done with with great skill. And on top of everything
the evil voice of the ring tries to subdue Frodo, although with not
much success at this point.

Title: Fine Art for Future Generations · Author: stefaniab · Genres:
Humor: Gondor · ID: 561
Reviewer: obsidianj · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 3
Spoilers!
Questionable art is always good for a laugh. I like the depiction of
the two young boys here. They don't question the picture, but take it
at face value. Arwen's reminiscence about how the picture came about
is funny. I like Gimli the gnome.

Title: Shall We Dance? · Author: Isabeau of Greenlea · Races: Men:
Steward's Family · ID: 93
Reviewer: obsidianj · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 4
So, Denethor has a softer side under his stern exterior. But still he
can't do anything without calculating or cataloging the effect his
actions have on others. I love it how Boromir and Faramir conspire to
get their father to dance with Lothiriel, but that it is ultimately
Lothiriel herself that convinces the Steward, consciously or
unconsciously to comply with her wishes. This is just a short piece,
but all the main characters are deftly drawn and come to life.

Title: One Summer Day · Author: annmarwalk · Genres: Humor: Gondor ·
ID: 535
Reviewer: pipkinsweetgrass · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 7
This is an amazing story which bears reading more than once. Living
near the sea, I can tell you that the writer has the mindset down
perfectly! No matter how well off you are or how poor, you just can't
beak that vital connection to the sea or to the precious land around
it. Yes, we have gardens, here, too! The brothers were so perfect
here, and I was overjoyed to see them all happy for a change instead
of only the grief-riddled ones, which are needed...but happy is great
too. Ans the fact that others loved them was shown! That is good use
of point of view! We see that both brothers are beloved by family and
friend and by their people as well. Both brothers were beloved Sons of
Gondor, here we see the foreshadowing of that. The interconnectedness
of the story was seamless, characterization flawless, why I could
almost taste the crab! And I bet I know what spices Imrahil said use!
This story really grabbed me with it's faithfulness to canon and it's
groundedness in reality...a fine balance, and a good story!

Title: Forsaken · Author: Imhiriel · Races: Elves: Drabbles · ID: 369
Reviewer: Alquawende · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 4
I loved the emotion coming out of the 100 words. Imhiriel has made
every word count in this drabble. I've always been curious what Finrod
thought when his nephew/brother (depends) did not come to his side and
aid him against the Sons of Feanor, but instead did nothing. This
drabble shows perfectly, Finrod's emotion and thoughts about all the
sorrows he has lived through. Overall, I really enjoyed this drabble.

Title: Faithful · Author: Dwimordene · Times: Second and Early Third
Age · ID: 105
Reviewer: Alquawende · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 5
Spoilers!
It is a rarity to even come upon a story that takes place in the time
of Gondor's Kin-strife, so when I saw this story, I knew I had to
read. I have had this upsession about this period for quite awhile and
this fic has only made me want more, sadly, because there are too few.
Anyway, back to the short fic, I like that the author brings out the
political effects the Kin-strife has on the various lords of Gondor.
It makes the story more realistic when the author narrated,
beautifully, the situation, but did not give away too much. The ending
suprised me, and I liked it very much, even if it had bad effects for
others... A lovely fic, Dwimordene!

Title: A Cat in King Elessar's Court · Author: agape4gondor · Races:
Cross-Cultural: Friendship · ID: 66
Reviewer: obsidianj · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 4
This is a lovely cat story. I was a bit surprised by the title, since
most of the story (page wise) plays during Denethor's time. But in the
end it made sense.

I love the characterization of the cat. As a new cat owner myself, I
could recognize behavior I would observe in my own cats. I could feel
pity for Denethor for the first time. He is not someone I really like,
but the cat showed the good sides of Denethor and grew in me an
understanding of his plight.

Title: In Passing · Author: Altariel · Races: Men · ID: 104
Reviewer: Aervir · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 10
Spoilers!
Altariel has always been one of my favourite authors in Tolkien fandom
because she captures one of my favourite characters so wonderfully;
this ficlet -- which I somehow failed to notice until now -- is no
exception.

Faramir's characterization is as subtle as it is precise in this brief
story. Within the space of a few paragraphs, he is presented as a
ruler, prince and strategic mind; as a scholar attracted by the lure
of words and gifted with verbal dexterity himself; as a supreme reader
and judge of other people; and, above all, as a 'family man'
connecting lineage and posterity.

The latter theme is of outstanding importance in 'The Lord of the
Rings', and it is picked up in this piece of writing in a very hopeful
manner. The title is a deft pun on the seeming effortlessness of this
casual history lesson for young Beren; on Faramir's advanced age that
has brought him close to death, and the essential distinction between
'passing on' and 'passing away'.

What is passed on here are the most life-affirming aspects of
Tolkien's idiosyncratic brand of conservatism-with-a-small-c, where
restoration, regeneration and renewal meet each other in the image of
the garden of Ithilien -- not the land of old any longer, but won back
for all the children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren to come.

Wonderful!

Title: They Also Serve · Author: Marta · Times: Late Third Age · ID: 365
Reviewer: Aervir · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 9
Spoilers!
This story touches on a certain 'behind the scenes' element of the
Fellowship's Quest that Tolkien himself did not include -- much to his
later regret -- so I am very glad to see it picked up in fanfiction:
the 'homefront' in Rivendell.

There is a certain cruelty in being forced to wait for news from your
loved ones in a dangerous situation, and a certain quiet heroism in
the perseverance of those who stay behind, and it is lovely to see
this acknowledged. Of course, this sort of requires the symbolic
kitchen setting -- the comforts of the hearth, and the domestic work
we never actually read about in 'The Lord of the Rings', although the
importance of the great ladies as bread-givers, in the original sense
of the Old English word, is stressed throughout Tolkien's legendarium.

Here it is Arwen, however, who has to be given emotional nourishment
in a world where mothers are so frequently dead or otherwise absent.
The imagery that Marta chooses to describe her confidante, [as strong
and unchanging as the bones of the earth,] is the perfect description
for courage and bravery in seeming unlikely places -- something
Tolkien himself might have highly approved of.

Title: Call of the Wild · Author: annmarwalk · Genres: Romance:
Drabbles · ID: 94
Reviewer: Aervir · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 6
Spoilers!
Somehow, I 'managed' to miss this drabble when it was posted on
tolkien_weekly, so I am very glad that I have the chance to redress my
lack of attention now.

In the very constricted format of a true drabble, this ficlet succeeds
in fleshing out a character who is one of the many names in the
Appendices, being consistent with the little canon knowledge that we
have of Morwen (that she married Thengel, that she earned the name
Steelsheen) and yet transcending these facts.

Her physical attraction to Thengel as well as her longing to see
herself reflected in his wildness and match it with hers are perfectly
highlighted; especially the imagery of [glory calling them in the echo
of a far-away battle horn] appeals to me: It seems very fitting for a
future queen of Rohan and it's also very much in line with the
conflation of admiration of martial prowess and desire that sometimes
occurs in Tolkien's writings.

Bravo!

Title: Lost and Found · Author: Branwyn (Lady Branwyn) · Times: Mid
Third Age · ID: 23
Reviewer: Aervir · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 10
The friendship between Gandalf and Faramir, which has endured since
the latter's childhood, the everyday life in Minas Tirith before the
War of the Ring and the Steward's family relations are themes only
hinted at in canon, much to the delight of fanfic authors and readers,
and Branwyn's treatment of the subject certainly does not disappoint.

Her characterization of the protagonists as well as her foreshadowing
of more important things to come are pitch-perfect. Gandal's kind and
avuncular attitude towards the innocent that have no idea of his true
powers is evoked in the friendliness, patience and seriousness with
which he treats Faramir here, and yet the author doesn't us forget
that he is more than a nice old man. His true age is brought to mind
["It has been far too long since I spent any time around children"],
his ability to see beyond the surface ["( he) could feel the warmth
and the tremulous spirit, as quick as the flutter of wings, that were
bound in his flesh"], and his budding worries with regard to Bilbo's
ring ["Though there are some things that were better never found"].

And wee!Faramir is definitely a joy to read about: He is an
intelligent, precocious and amiable child, but I especially like that
Branwyn nevertheless depicts him as a _child_ -- eager to please,
prattling, impatient, fond of a little gossip, and a bit of a dreamer.
Nonetheless, we can also see the character he is to become in LOTR:
scholarly, but also clever in a quick-witted, pragmatic way; fond of
lore as well as of the beasts in nature (whom he slays neither
needlessly nor gladly, as he says), deeply bound to his father and by
no means unlike him.

As a Faramir fangirl, I am also very happy about the fact that he's
now bound up in the Quest already; he indirectly helps Gandalf to
uncover the truth about what Bilbo found by a find of his own; in the
future, the Ring itself will find him -- and this ficlet might as well
give us a small clue why he won't claim it: He is interested in
learning and in helping others, not in possessing.

A wonderful read!

Title: Estel I Was Called · Author: Marta · Genres: Drama: Featuring
Aragorn · ID: 351
Reviewer: obsidianj · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 3
Spoilers!
It had to be difficult for Aragorn to go back to his folk after being
denied his heritage for so long. Luckily, he has his cousin Halbarad
to teach him the ropes of his new existence. And how fitting that he
again has to choose a new name. I liked the details about the pelts on
Aragorn's parents' bed.

Title: And Whisper You to This Earth · Author: Lady Elina · Genres:
Romance · ID: 151
Reviewer: Beruthiel's Cat · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 8
Spoilers!
Rather than my own lack of eloquence, this story speaks for itself.
Rarely do I find stories

that move me as this one has, making it an even more precious finding
among usual fare. This

tale of an elf and a mortal speaks to all of us, of the terrible
weight of time. For some, as

Erestor, time and sorrow are a crushing weight, for Halbarad, an equal
sorrow in the fleeting

rush to the unknown. One will live to lose so much without hope of
regaining, the other will be

lost to the dust of time. Each wants to be remembered, each searches
for meaning and hope.

Both will be forgotten, except within the memory of the earth itself.
So symbolic, the

crumbling wisdom of the library, the Whisper Stone embedded within the
earth. The

bittersweet fragility of their coming together gives each a
transcendence of fate, a memory,

and courage to go forward to whatever end. Incredibly lyrical,
intensely visual, a must-read

for anyone who wants to gain insight into a subject I wish was within
my ability to review

well. A tale deserving to be on anyone's list of best-of-the-best.

Title: Thawing Lily · Author: Soubrettina · Genres: Humor: Gondor · ID: 30
Reviewer: obsidianj · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 1
A very unusual 'courtship'. But I can see it as a possibility.

Title: Loss · Author: SurgicalSteel · Genres: Drama: Hurt/Comfort ·
ID: 196
Reviewer: Beruthiel's Cat · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 7
Spoilers!
In every one of this author's tales is woven her personal experience
as a surgeon, as well as a love of medical history and Tolkien. Taken
together, they paint a very realistic picture of survival in primitive
conditions. A tale that pulls out all the stops, 'Loss' is a tribute
to the harsh realities we do not often think of in regard of any of
Tolkien's characters. This window into an epic tale built around the
family of Halbarad, is skillfully blended with the author's original
character of his wife, Serindë. The circumstances portrayed here are
doubly tragic, and chillingly real. the author skillfully avoids any
of the traps in which her character could be labeled as the dreaded
Mary Sue, instead giving us a view into the canon characters that
could not be achieved elsewise. Skillfully written, utterly
captivating, not to be missed. Deserving of any reader's list of all
time favorites, Surgical Steel's tales becomes like an old friend,
someone you'll want to spend time with over and again.

Title: The Stolen Child · Author: SurgicalSteel · Races: Men · ID: 197
Reviewer: Beruthiel's Cat · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 6
Spoilers!
'The Stolen Child' makes me glad that both it and 'Loss' were
nominated together, as it would

be impossible to separate them without losing some of their incredible
impact. 'Loss' deals

with tragedy, Stolen Child with the aftermath, grief and the
beginnings of acceptance. So real

are the characters' feelings, so terrible their circumstances. The
pain of their loss will never

truly heal, but Halbarad and Serindë have a relationship that isstrong
enough to keep them

from breaking. For two people so dedicated to the preservation of
life, the author's

no-holds-barred approach to this story and its predecessor intensifies
their personal tragedy

almost beyond endurance. A sensitive, wrenching subject handled with
style and grace,

Surgical Steel proves exactly why her stories are worthy of the
nominations they receive.

Title: MAGIC: The Password · Author: Fiondil · Genres: Humor: Elven
Lands · ID: 451
Reviewer: Beruthiel's Cat · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 4
Spoilers!
451 Magic-The Password

This little jewel strikes a little too close to home for me. If you
write something down, it

doesn't do a bit of good to not put it somewhere you can find it
again! A thoroughly delightful

jaunt, Fiondil proves that even elves can have their moments. That it
happens to Thranduil is

even better. At least we know now where that password came from, lost
again to fall into the

most unlikely hands.

Title: PROPHECY: Changing the Future · Author: Fiondil · Genres: Humor
· ID: 11
Reviewer: Beruthiel's Cat · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 4
Spoilers!
11-Prophecy-Changing the Future

Humor abounds, even among the Valar as Námo attempts to derail some
rather creative

writing by a pair of mortal wags bent upon polishing their image as a
species. One can only

imagine the resulting brouhaha if and when all the different versions
come together under one

roof. As is the hallmark of this author, the best is saved for last,
when the One running the

show will remind them of who is really in charge. Not to be missed,
one of the best of

Fiondil's Tapestry series.

Thank you, Marta! I didn't realize I could search by story number.

Regards,
Lin

While writing my reviews, I found it useful to remove my own fics and certain
stories I determined I was not going to review from the list I saw, so I marked
"skip" on them. Now I can't see my own stories at all, and would like to check
out a few stories that it looks I might have hastily marked to skip that I'd now
like to examine. How can I "unskip" those stories? Thanks for any help in
this,

Bonnie L. Sherrell
Teacher at Large

"Then do not be too eager to deal out death in judgement. For even the very wise cannot see all ends." LOTR

"Don't go where I can't follow."

Title: FAULT: The Doctor Is In · Author: Fiondil · Genres: Humor:
Valar & Maiar · ID: 545
Reviewer: Beruthiel's Cat · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 5
Spoilers!
545-Fault-The Doctor is In

As an avid follower of this author's tales, it has been a joy to watch
his witty forays into

Tolkien's characters. A left-handed turn into "what if" in which the
Feanoreans truly get what

is coming to them, and in spades.If there was ever a crowd to put the
'fun' in dysfunctional,

therefore inspiring the Lord of Mandos to make the punishment fit the
crime, this is it. Oh, to

be a fly on the wall during one of these sessions, but again, the best
is saved for last as the

tables are turned on the instigator of this little free-for-all.
Sometimes, good ideas can come

back to bite you. Totally hilarious, and my personal favorite of the
humor pieces included in

Fiondil's Tapestry series.

Title: One Equal Temper of Heroic Hearts · Author: Gwynnyd · Genres:
Romance: Gondor · ID: 334
Reviewer: viv · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 3
Oh, this I like. As someone who isn't getting any younger, I have
wondered similar things. And true, their, uh, energetic ending to this
story smacks of the Aragorn and Arwen of my imagination, they could
have answered their questions differently and it wouldn't have been
any less romantic. What a light touch you have on difficult subjects,
Gwynnyd.

Title: Aftermaths and Consequences · Author: Gwynnyd · Times: Fourth
Age and Beyond · ID: 268
Reviewer: viv · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 3
Are these characters from some of your other works? I like them.
They're no-nonsense and practical, but more than that, they're
believable. I like the descriptions of his stride and posture, and her
uncomplaining acceptance that she is not beautiful. I'd like to read
more about these two and find out whether his ambitions at court bear
fruit.

Title: The Craft of the Elven Smith · Author: Larner · Times:
Multi-Age · ID: 1
Reviewer: viv · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 3
I love this notion that Nerdanel's gifts to the world were more than
her hot-headed sons. She had so much skill and talent on her own that
she *ought* to have been so used to craft things of importance. Plus,
it's good to think of her busy over there in Valinor, not mourning
constantly from age to age. This seems to fit her character.

Title: The Ring That Sauron Forged · Author: Larner · Genres: Poetry:
Hobbits · ID: 645
Reviewer: viv · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 2
Well, that about sums up the whole story, doesn't it? And with a lilt
and meter, too! Very entertaining and well done!

Title: Free To Live · Author: Nieriel Raina · Races: Elves: Mirkwood
Elves · ID: 701
Reviewer: viv · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 4
What I really like about this is how hard it is for Thranduil to let
his resentments go. Oh, he does, eventually, of course, but he has to
keep reminding himself to do so. He has to keep repeating the word
"peace" just so he doesn't lose sight of what has been accomplished...
even though it wasn't accomplished by *him* exclusively. I can almost
hear his answer to that: "darn it."

Title: A Dream Come True · Author: Lady Bluejay · Genres: Romance:
Gondor · ID: 162
Reviewer: viv · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 3
Spoilers!
Well, that's a twist on the old "Eomer and Lothiriel meet for the
first time" story! Hee. The attraction between them was very
believable, and I liked that Lothiriel has spirit despite her staid
and prim appearance. She's right: she is a good queen. But Eomer is
right, too: she's a heap sexier than a painted whore.

Title: Somewhere I Have Never Traveled · Author: Fiondil · Times:
Fourth Age and Beyond · ID: 578
Reviewer: Beruthiel's Cat · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 6
Spoilers!
Like everyone else who has become such a fan of Tolkien fiction, I
enjoy revisiting favorite

tales; and this one is no exception. I believe we all have
preconceived notions of what this

moment for her (and ourselves) would be like. To find differently than
one expected would be

rather disappointing, but to find the reality better than the
supposition would be a relief as well

as a joyful experience. Námo as Fiondil writes him is always special;
he is so straightforward

and "real", wearing many faces as is befitting the Lord of Mandos.
Such a wide range of

emotions expressed within this story, all skillfully handled...solid
characterization to which we

as readers have become spoiled. The Lord of Mandos having his own
needs acknowledged

by hobbits is a special touch that sends this tale into the realm of
best told and long

remembered.

Title: Tales of the Eldandili · Author: Alassiel · Genres: Drama:
Incomplete · ID: 502
Reviewer: Beruthiel's Cat · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 5
An interesting and delightful premise, further exploring an idea not
often considered or by

fiction authors. Alassiel brings style and grace to this tale, an a
very welcome sense of

plausability. In imagining such a "what if" scenario, I think we'd all
like to find ourselves in her

characters' shoes. These people are well thought out, entirely
believeable in their reactions to

the situation in which they find themselves.With such an excellent
beginning to this story, I

foresee it being enjoyable and full of surprises all throughout; and
entirely worthy of its

nomination.

Title: Shadows · Author: Bodkin · Races: Elves: Family · ID: 698
Reviewer: Beruthiel's Cat · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 4
As is to be expected with Bodkin's tales, there is always incredible
depth and ventures into

areas of Tolkien's works not usually visited by other authors. Such is
true in this one,

delightfully refreshing and completely original in its treatment of
such familiar canon. Bodkin is

exceptional in her insights, skillfully weaving a story that is
guaranteed to make the reader sit

up and pay attention. Worthy of being included among any reader's list
of all-time favorites.

Title: A Sea Visit · Author: Elen Kortirion · Genres: Humor: Drabbles
· ID: 96
Reviewer: cairistiona · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 2
Very funny drabble ... mood and setting is shown very well with
limited words, and the surprise "neighbor" is a nice little funny
twist at the end.

Title: The Skills That Keep You Alive · Author: Gwynnyd · Times: Mid
Third Age · ID: 434
Reviewer: cairistiona · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 5
Spoilers!
Interesting story ... young Estel is well-drawn and his antsy
frustration at having to do beadwork is very much how I'd see a young
boy acting. I like how Glorfindel is portrayed as well: wise and with
an underlying deadliness that seems barely constrained ... he strikes
me as never being one to have ever lost control. I like the idea of
his juggling all those things to show Estel the importance of hand-eye
coordination. The ending was really unique, I have to say. I never
really pictured Aragorn ever doing a juggling act on a stage--but it
makes me wonder if it's a cover for some other mission down in Harad
or something. Interesting, at any rate!

Title: Dark Dreams · Author: Avon · Races: Men: Steward's Family · ID: 282
Reviewer: cairistiona · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 5
Spoilers!
This is a lovely tale ... Imrahil is so gentle with his young nephews,
and even at a young age, the two boys' dispositions are evident:
Boromir the warrior, Faramir the dreamer (who would become a
dreamer/warrior). I haven't read many fics about these three, so
finding this one was a joy. The horrors of the drowning of Numenor are
hard to imagine and uncomfortable (at best) to think about--Faramir's
vivid description was chilling, especially the bit about the mother
killing her baby. Such things surely would have happened. I also liked
Imrahil's outrage at Denethor--no love lost there. All in all, very
well done story.

Title: Whatever Harm Encroached · Author: Nieriel Raina · Times:
Second and Early Third Age · ID: 708
Reviewer: cairistiona · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 3
Such telling detail in this story ... it almost seemed like I should
look up and see snowflakes falling. Thranduil's skills are fascinating
to "see", and I like the warm touch at the end as Legolas comes in and
takes care of his ada. Nice story!

Title: The Fire of Hope · Author: Raksha the Demon · Races: Men:
Pre-Ring War Fixed-Length Ficlets · ID: 625
Reviewer: cairistiona · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 3
Nice glimpse of the lonely life of a Ranger ... and a good glimpse of
the fire within Aragorn as he contemplates his future and his present
and of course, Arwen. I can well picture him sitting in the darkness,
his eyes alight as he makes those vows. Very nice story.

Title: NIGHT and FOREST: A Glimpse of Beauty · Author: Fiondil ·
Times: First Age and Prior · ID: 554
Reviewer: cairistiona · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 3
Spoilers!
Wonderful glimpse of Beren's struggles through Ered Gorgoroth and the
horrors he dealt with there. The tale of Beren is a fascinating one
and it's nice to find a fic that expands on it and fills in the
details as well as this one does. It was wrenching to read, but that
last line made for a nice sigh of relief at the end.

Title: In absentia · Author: Robinka · Races: Elves: House of Finwe ·
ID: 84
Reviewer: cairistiona · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 3
Very compelling short ficlet ... Maedhros' recovery from his torment
could not have been an easy one, and this story reflects Fingon's
frustration but also his patience and care for his cousin. Nicely done.

Title: Seeking the Sun · Author: Linda Hoyland · Races: Men · ID: 488
Reviewer: cairistiona · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 2
Very poignant, and beautifully illustrates the way King Elesser must
have surely one over all of Gondor, if not all en masse, than
sometimes one by one.

Title: A Little Misunderstanding · Author: Radbooks · Races:
Cross-Cultural: Elves and Men · ID: 275
Reviewer: cairistiona · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 3
Spoilers!
Sweet story that nonetheless also includes some darker moments.
Elladan's grief and guilt over his seeming failure to protect Arathorn
rings true, as does Halbarad's fears that the peredhil are there to
take him away. Nice resolving of the issue with Halbarad at the end,
although you still have the idea that Elladan still will have his own
demons to battle.

Title: This crown of stars · Author: Fawsley · Races: Men: General
Drabbles · ID: 586
Reviewer: cairistiona · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 2
Spoilers!
Nice glimpse of Strider during one of his low moments, when his
destiny seems far out of reach. Very poignant, and the idea of the
stars above being his only crown is beautiful.

Title: In the Hands of the King · Author: fantasyfan · Times: Late
Third Age: Gondor · ID: 231
Reviewer: cairistiona · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 2
Spoilers!
Very sweet ficlet and nice imaginative touch, using the shroud that
kept Aragorn's standard clean for a covering for Frodo.

Title: Celebrity · Author: Bodkin · Races: Men: Minas Tirith · ID: 635
Reviewer: cairistiona · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 5
Spoilers!
Excellent ficlet ... it has a wistful quality as the Strider that
still lives within King Elesser longs to be free. There is a stubborn
quality about Elesser that strikes me as very appropriate--King he may
be, but he would dearly love to be king on his own terms and dispense
with so much of the trappings of court. And yet there is also the
pragmatic--as king, he would have to protect himself and his family.
And with that comes that wistful resignation. Overall, a very good and
detailed glimpse into King Elesser's mindset and circumstances as he
encounters an old acquaintance.

Title: No Man's Land · Author: Branwyn (Lady Branwyn) · Genres:
Alternate Universe: Drabbles · ID: 726
Reviewer: Beruthiel's Cat · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 4
I had lost track of this drabble awhile back due to not remembering
the title. I was very glad when it showed up here, as I have wanted to
recommend it repeatedly to those who haven't read it. I'm not usually
one who either reads or writes drabbles, but this one had me
completely captivated with the sheer chilling possibility it
presented. A resounding well done for this little jewel!

Title: The Heart of a Knight · Author: Imhiriel · Genres: Drama:
Incomplete · ID: 335
Reviewer: obsidianj · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 4
This is a thoughtful in-depth gapfiller about Beregond. What does he
feel going from expecting the death-penalty to being appointed Captain
of the White Company? Who is this man? In this story Imhiriel sheds
some light on these questions. I like her characterization of Beregond
and the turmoil he is going through feels very real.

I hope to see another chapter soon.

Title: BRIDGE: Pá Valaraucar ar Námier · Author: Fiondil · Races:
Other Beings · ID: 415
Reviewer: Beruthiel's Cat · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 6
Spoilers!
For someone who worked for Lord Námo on several occasions in times
past Olorin seems

to have conveniently forgotten the rules when his own turn comes to
face the music, as it

were. As so many of us have speculated what that particular trip
outside space and time

involved, Fiondil has given us an answer with his signature twist.
[What part of "you're dead"

do you not understand?] sums the situation up nicely, reminding the
newly departed Maia that

even he must play by the rules. A serious situation laced with just
the right touch of humor, the

Lord of Mandos reminds his charge that the definition of failure is
indeed in the eye of the

beholder. With such a well -deserved lecture firmly in mind, no wonder
our favorite wizard's

reappearance is punctuated by a deeper wisdom and ability than what
came before

Title: The King's Surgeon · Author: SurgicalSteel · Genres: Longer
Works · ID: 90
Reviewer: Beruthiel's Cat · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 7
Spoilers!
An epic tale told from the POV of an original charater that manages to
avoid every pitfall

common to the mary Sue label. Extremely believeable, told with a style
and grace that draws

the reader in willingly. In Tolkien's world, Serindë would have fit in
with nary a ripple. Very

human, at a decided disadvantage in her beginnings, Serindë works hard
for everything she

achieves, and manages to give a refreshing new slant to canon
characters. Everyday lives, the

good, the bad, the terribly traumatic, as well as major canon events
are all explored within

this amazing story. As with all the truly great fanfiction writers,
this author manages to add

both depth and color top a familiar landscape. I absolutely enjoy
being surprised by a new

take on an old favorite, and Serindë does just that without drawing
attention to herself,

seamlessly woven into Tolkien's remarkable tapestry. This is one of
those tales that will stay

with you, simply because it is just so incredibly well told.

Title: National Treasure · Author: Baranduin · Times: Modern Times ·
ID: 201
Reviewer: Beruthiel's Cat · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 4
Spoilers!
I love to think the idea presented in this tale could actually happen,
and what a wonderful

thing it would be if it did. On the other hand, there is the sense of
needing to keep such a find

secret and safe, not having it intruded upon. Such a sacred place
would be sad beyond

measure were it relegated to the level of tourist destination. Lovely
tale, leaves the reader

wondering what happened next, but content with the idea of never
actually knowing. Drawn

in and completely captivated by this story? You bet. Gladly.

Title: The Ghost in the Garden · Author: Dawn Felagund · Races: Elves
· ID: 272
Reviewer: Beruthiel's Cat · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 5
Spoilers!
This tale moved me in so many ways. As an exploration of canon, it
portrays the fundamental differences faced by Galadriel and Celeborn,
while painting a rich and tragic portrait of the reality of their
surrounding circumstances. A startling and disturbing window into the
concept referred to as the long defeat, a reminder that immortality is
not necessarily the blessing we would like to believe. No happy
endings are implied; yet hope remains, even though it will be terribly
long in being fulfilled. Brings home the wish that time is not a
concept the fallen have to endure. Excellent story, exceedingly well told.

Title: For What I Wait · Author: Dawn Felagund · Genres: Alternate
Universe: Angst/Tragedy · ID: 125
Reviewer: Beruthiel's Cat · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 4
Spoilers!
Chillingly tragic, one wonders if this is what it will take to bring
Feanor to final repentance, or instead plunge him completely into
madness. Surely he has given up all hope for himself, though he still
clings with desperstion to the possibility the children he so wronged
will be forgiven.Couldn't pass this one by without comment, although
leaving a worthy review for such an emotional piece is totally beyond
my ability. Be assured, I will be thinking about the tale told here
for a long time to come.

Title: Bitter Sweet · Author: annmarwalk · Genres: Alternate Universe:
Steward's Family · ID: 536
Reviewer: obsidianj · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 2
The last sentence sums it all up. They are finally where they belong.
I like the symmetry of the piece.

Title: Fit for a King · Author: Imhiriel · Times: Fourth Age and
Beyond: Fixed-Length Ficlets · ID: 217
Reviewer: Avon · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 1
A nice little friendship story with a cute twist.

Title: Unwilling · Author: Elena Tiriel · Races: Elves: Drabbles · ID: 64
Reviewer: Avon · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 2
Such an unusual point of view - and I really loved the first line. For
one hundred words it managed to convey a remarkable amount of anger
and mourning.

Title: Look Not With Longing · Author: Dwimordene · Times: Fourth Age
and Beyond · ID: 479
Reviewer: Avon · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 4
Oh my gosh, that's just wonderful! Reading stories like that makes me
wonder why I ever stoped reading LOTR fan fiction. It catches all that
is best about Lord of the Rings stories - the mysticism, the glory,
the ever underlying sadness, the sheer beauty of words and phrases and
the pictures that they make. Tolkien, who served in a war of blood and
darkness and who, like so many, probably found the world beyond that
war a strange place, would have found great truths in this story.
Beautifullu, beautifully written.

Title: Engineering · Author: SurgicalSteel · Races: Men: Minas Tirith
· ID: 696
Reviewer: Beruthiel's Cat · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 5
Spoilers!
Anyone who has ever read any of the [King's Surgeon] timelines will
enjoy this portrait of a

very young Serindë first finding the love of her life (other than her
husband, of course). The

person she will become sparkles through a child's eyes as she comes to
terms with her injury,

and one can't help but fel as if her potential could have been wasted
had she ended up in less

caring hands. talagon's motives may not be entirely altruistic in the
beginning, but by the end

of this special interaction, the seeds are sown for enduring
friendship. Definitely not to be

missed.

Title: The Littlest Warrior · Author: RavensWing14337 · Races: Elves:
Incomplete · ID: 552
Reviewer: Beruthiel's Cat · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 5
Spoilers!
So many writers have tackled the possibilites presented in Aragorn as
a child, but this story

stands in a class all its own. A fresh perspective with an unusual
plot, little Estel is woven

within the story with smoothness and skill. Plot twists abound, all
making for a highly

enjoyable adventure starring not only Aragorn, but many of out
favorite characters as well.

Highly entertaining, visually rich, and totally captivating as the
inhabitants and visitors to

Imladris are in a race against time with an unseen enemy. I thoroughly
enjoyed the interactions

between such well-presented characters, but my favorite scene of all
involved a very unlikely

definition of music: [Taking his father's hand Estel skipped merrily
down the hallway singing

as he went; leading the way on a mission of comfort, blissfully
oblivious to the music in the

corridor. The sound of leather rubbing against leather, stretched to
its limit by the muscle

underneath. The gentle chink of metal stays as they pull, taut across
broad chests and

shoulders. The unmistakable sound of a metal scabbard as it rubbed
against the soft fabric of

someone's favorite suede leggings. The whisper- like sound hair makes,
as its ever-so-gently

disturbed by the motion of the body moving forward through the air.
The sound of confident

footsteps and the clip-clop sound of boots on flagstone floors. The
child skipped merrily on,

singing to the music made by eight of the fiercest warriors in all of
Arda.] It just doesn't get

any better than this.



Title: Parting Gifts · Author: Fiondil · Races: Cross-Cultural:
Post-Ring War · ID: 452
Reviewer: Beruthiel's Cat · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 7
Spoilers!
Fiondils writing becomes addictive. One chapter of any story is all it
usually takes to pull the reader in, and this one is a shining example
of that ability. Legolas and Gimli are totally in character, and the
depth of their friendship through the years is never more apparent as
it comes to a close. Not a word is wasted as Gimli conveys his concern
for the friend he will leave behind, covered as is his usual wont in
his endearing gruffness.
He understands the sorrow his friend will face, having seen Legolas
endure so many partings, and does his best to ease that pain in
whatever way he can, another tribute to his own shining character,
even though Gimli doesn't see himself as being any more special than
anyone else. He is honestly surprised and touched by others' regard,
the shyness of his initial reaction to Galadriel is still very much
present.
A thoroughly satisfying tale, not only in its lovely treatment of an
inevitable ending, but also in its promise of new beginnings.

Title: Full Brothers in Blood · Author: Oshun · Genres: Humor · ID: 212
Reviewer: viv · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 1
Your elves sweat. Hooray!

Title: The Work of Small Hands · Author: Dawn Felagund · Genres:
Longer Works · ID: 352
Reviewer: viv · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 3
[When self-preservation becomes chief in our thoughts, decency, it
seems, is the first bit of extra weight sacrificed to the churning,
black fear on which we precariously drift.] -- You know, it is the
mark of a piece of true literature that quotes can be taken out that
are not only perfect for the scene from which they come but are also
telling of the Human Experience overall. This is one such quote,
something you'd see in Bartlett's.

Title: Unwilling · Author: Elena Tiriel · Races: Elves: Drabbles · ID: 64
Reviewer: viv · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 1
That last line is a doozy.

Title: In Passing · Author: Altariel · Races: Men · ID: 104
Reviewer: phyloxena · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 2
Spoilers!
The most touching and glorious story, peaceful and heroic, and sad,
too. Faramir tells his great-grandson something of chess and something
of history.

Title: A Fitting Occupation · Author: Radbooks · Races: Men: Pre-Ring
War Fixed-Length Ficlets · ID: 601
Reviewer: Rhapsody · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 5
This is a very cute short story where by means of drabbles Radbooks
portrays a scene between father and son.The drabbles together work so
immensely well - including the alternating viewpoints of both (as
stand alone they would need a bit more). I think that worked the best
for me, especially when the author wrote from the boy's perspective
and I think she does a marvellous job portraying them so convincingly.
Overall, I find this a great character centric piece, leaving me to
wonder how well the boy will do amongst the dwarves. I most certainly
would love to read that!

Title: Last Stroke · Author: Elena Tiriel · Genres: Alternate
Universe: Drabbles · ID: 465
Reviewer: Súlriel · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 2
What an interesting perspective. I can't remember reading this scene
with Círdan before. Well done, emotional and visual as I always find
your work to be.

Title: Utúlie'n Aurë · Author: Nieriel Raina · Genres: Drama: General
Fixed-Length Ficlets · ID: 163
Reviewer: Súlriel · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 2
This is very emotional and moving. I find the phrase echoes across the
ages to be perfectly fitting and very well used in this short shot.

Title: A Great Cause for Concern · Author: Alassante · Races:
Cross-Cultural: Post-Ring War · ID: 682
Reviewer: Súlriel · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 3
What a delight to find this listed here. This is one that's a delight
to read and reread. It's not only fun, but insightful as well. I
especially enjoyed the debate and the back and forth discussions and
reasonings.

Title: Tarnished Ivory · Author: Yavie Feels Pretty · Genres:
Adventure: Incomplete · ID: 464
Reviewer: pipkinsweetgrass · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 5
I usually wait until a work in progress is done to read it, but I'm
glad I did not with this particular story. This writer has gifted fan
fiction with a breath of fresh air in--of all things--the canon of the
actual author of the source material! Yes, it is true! Actual book
canon Legolas and Boromir! Well, as near as it's possible for fan
fiction. And it doesn't stop with Boromir and Legolas, the characters
of Gimli, Merry and Pippin appear to be in good hand. The proposed
plot line has all appearances of being quite acceptable and digestible
and the descriptives are sound and spare and beautifully written. I
have high hopes for this story.

Title: The Right to Bear Arms · Author: Pearl Took · Genres: Humor:
Elven Lands · ID: 653
Reviewer: pipkinsweetgrass · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 5
This is a story full of surprises. As usua, Pearl Took ddelivers a
fine story, which I truly liked for quite a few reasons, some of which
I'll cover in this review. I like that Pippin earned Boromir's respect
as well as his affection. The descriptive of the contest was very
realistic...I felt I could have been standing there watching in
person. I loved Pippin's spunk, which is mirrored sub-textually in
Boromir's taking a liking to Pippin. This is very in character for
Boromir, and also forershadows Pippin's later acts of courage in the
source material. Very well done story starring my two favorite characters!

Title: Chasing Blackie · Author: Pearl Took · Times: Mid Third Age:
Eriador · ID: 655
Reviewer: pipkinsweetgrass · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 5
What a charming little story this is, and what a charming little Took
wee Pippin is! I don't think I've seen too many Pippins who can steal
my heart as quickly and easily as this one did. And his poor mother!
She has the patience of a Middle Earth saint! I loved the imagination
shown in this story. Pippin's innocence shines through, and he is very
much an ordinary child like the ones we raise ourselves. I think that
is what touched me the most about this story, the verisimilitude of
those precious few years of youth. It is an eternal truth which truly
shines forth in this story.

Title: Comfort and Joy · Author: Pearl Took · Times: Mid Third Age:
Eriador · ID: 656
Reviewer: pipkinsweetgrass · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 3
This a sweet, wonderful and very hobbitty story! I loved the
characterizations in this as well as the story arc and the gentle
humor found throughout the tale. Pearl always writes a good Pippin as
well as a fine Merry and Frodo, and this story certainly does not
disappoint.

Title: Celebrity · Author: Bodkin · Races: Men: Minas Tirith · ID: 635
Reviewer: elliska · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 5
I love the first person in this story. First person is so hard to
write well, especially with such 'larger than life' characters like
Aragorn, but you really do a great job of it with this story.
Aragorn's voice is perfect, as is the depiction of how it must have
been for him to be making the transition between who he was and who he
has become. I like that Aragorn wants to get to know this old
acquaintance again, but he is still cautious enough to send him
through his secretary. It is a really cool way to underscore what
Aragorn's life has become. Great glimpse into his new life.

Title: Dragons In The Trollshaws · Author: Bodkin · Genres: Adventure
· ID: 170
Reviewer: elliska · 2008-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 4
Wow! Somehow I never read this before. It is awesome. I absolutely
love Elladan and Elrohir in this story. The banter between them is
perfectly done and hilarious. So are the childhood references like
Smudge and the leap off the stable roof. I also love your take on
dragons in this story. And of course the action in this is incredible,
as is them working out how to handle the situation. Very tense. I
absolutely loved this story, Bodkin! I'm so glad the MEFAs led me to
finally see it.