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Title: Dance of
<http://www.henneth-annun.net/stories/chapter.cfm?STID=3312> Terrible Grace
. Author: Adina
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=19
8> ATL . Races/Places: Cross-Cultural: Vignette . ID: 57
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=40&form_story_filter=57>
Reviewer: Thundera
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=86

> Tiger . 2005-08-04 14:41:31 Score: 6

I love almost anything involving Legolas and Gimli, so of course I loved
this little vignette. But what I really liked about it was how quickly it
characterized Legolas in the beginning and how well it defended what could
be a slightly unorthodox characterization, at least according to fandom
opinions. It makes sense to my mind, especially given the fact that Legolas
and Gimli made a contest of their kills at Helm's Deep, so I appreciated it.
And using that characterization to form a bridge between elf and dwarf was
very nice. It fit the scene, and I can easily see Legolas prizing someone
who enjoyed the thrill of battle.

Title: Handmaiden of
<http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterlistview.asp?SID=3520> Lorien . Author:
Marnie
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=24
5> . Races/Places: Cross-Cultural . ID: 316
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=40&form_story_filter=316>
Reviewer: Thundera
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=86

> Tiger . 2005-08-04 14:45:56 Score: 6

Marnie strikes again with her customary brilliance. What I love best about
her stories is how true they stay to the characters, and by that I mean more
than just the personalities. She keeps the story true to WHAT the characters
are, and in this case, that means it's true to a Maia. The result is some
amazing imagery and perhaps the most insightful reasononing I've ever seen
for why Melian left Doriath after Thingol's death. It all makes so much
sense now, especially with the quick history lesson at the begining and what
Melian knew before she bound herself to both flesh and Thingol. Great story,
and thanks go out to Marnie for taking us into the mind of a Maia in a way
that would produce both awe and understanding.

Title: Breaking the Rules
<http://www.geocities.com/sotto-voce/news0830.html> (Harry Potter Exhibition
Game) . Author: Bubbles
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=14
9> . Races/Places: Cross-Cultural: Humor . ID: 276
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=40&form_story_filter=276>
Reviewer: Thundera
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=86

> Tiger . 2005-08-04 14:52:34 Score: 4

This is one of those stories that really shouldn't work, yet somehow, it
does. Hilariously so. I loved all the descriptions of the fights, and I
laughed very hard when Boromir and Sirius explained that they didn't fight
because they were dead. But I think I laughed hardest at the thought of
Frodo avoiding the snitch because of past trauma with small, golden objects.
That was brilliant. Great story, fast pace, and I want to see a rematch.

Title: Out of Stone <http://www.gardenofithilien.net/outofstone.html> .
Author: LadyAranel
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=15
1> . Races/Places: Cross-Cultural: Post-War of the Ring . ID: 315
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=40&form_story_filter=315>
Reviewer: Thundera
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=86

> Tiger . 2005-08-04 16:21:16 Score: 7

Wow. The friendship between Legolas and Gimli is one of my favorite subjects
so I read a lot of it, but rarely have I found it so powerfully portrayed.
Using Gloin as the point of view was an inspired stroke because it enabled
us to see just how unusual this friendship was. And also how much good it
did both elves and dwarves. And thank you for giving Gimli his due. His
words to his father struck me hard when he declared that if Legolas was not
welcome, neither was he. That was a beautiful line and it said so much about
the bond and the loyalty between the two, then in its early stages. I also
like the idea that the elves were just as unrelenting as the dwarves in
their first impressions, and I like even more the idea that many on both
sides of the divide were able to overcome their prejudices. And if Gloin can
do it, I suspect that Thranduil will be able to do it, too.

Title: Keeping the
<http://www.henneth-annun.net/stories/chapter.cfm?STID=3038> Watch . Author:
ErinRua
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=26
7> . Races/Places: Cross-Cultural: Pre-War of the Ring . ID: 333
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=40&form_story_filter=333>
Reviewer: Thundera
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=86

> Tiger . 2005-08-04 16:23:48 Score: 6

Great little story. I love the way the Bounders sat back and watched for a
while before making any decisions. Hobbits can afford to take a little more
time, I suspect. And I like Falco's ability to guess at things he can't see,
such as what might have become of the enemy this man met. It's a good thing
that both hobbits realize what this man is, or they might have been faced
with a very awkward confrontation. As for the man himself, I wondered if he
would notice them, and if so, whether or not he would let on that he knew.
I'm glad he did, because it further cemented in their minds that he was a
friend, and now I want a follow-up story in which these two find another
Ranger. Maybe one they'll share lunch with.

Title: Deep Waters
<http://www.henneth-annun.net/stories/chapter.cfm?STID=763> . Author: Finch
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=27
4> . Races/Places: Cross-Cultural: Vignette . ID: 344
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=40&form_story_filter=344>
Reviewer: Thundera
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=86

> Tiger . 2005-08-04 16:26:48 Score: 6

Interesting. I liked Balan's analogy of weeds growing about the root of
trees, and I loved Finrod's insistence that they were not weeds but flowers.
That the analogy could be carried forward into very fitting representations
of elven death was an added bonus. The elves certainly have a skill for
words. But I also enjoyed the discussion of things "below the waist," as
observed by a child. And I like how the differences in culture seemed to
push Balan and Finrod further apart before they were drawn back together. I
imagine that the friendship between elves and men had many fits and starts
in the beginning.

Title: All In a <http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterlistview.asp?SID=1380>
Hand . Author: Gaslight
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=28
1> . Races/Places: Cross-Cultural: Post-War of the Ring . ID: 389
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=40&form_story_filter=389>
Reviewer: Thundera
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=86

> Tiger . 2005-08-04 16:27:30 Score: 3

I loved the focus on the hands in this story. Legolas is contemplating some
rather weighty ideas about time and aging, and yet it is all boiled down
into Eowyn's hands. The big matters are sometimes best described by the
little things, and this story does that very well. I also loved Eowyn's
wisdom as she informs Legolas that he has also aged.

Title: The
<http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterview.asp?sid=1887&cid=12367> Hour of
Our Meeting . Author: Forodwaith
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=50

> . Races/Places: Cross-Cultural: Pre-War of the Ring . ID: 378

<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=40&form_story_filter=378>
Reviewer: Thundera
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=86

> Tiger . 2005-08-04 16:28:16 Score: 4

So that's how Bilbo met Gildor. I love the moment of uncertainty when Bilbo
thinks he's scared the elves off only to discover Gildor standing right
behind him. I can see Gildor pulling something like that. And I like the
fact that both Bilbo and Frodo use an elven greeting to form a connection
with the elves. The two meetings are very similar in that regard, which then
draws all kinds of parallels between Bilbo and Frodo.

Title: Mushroom <http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterlistview.asp?SID=3515>
Lore . Author: Werecat
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=83

> . Races/Places: Cross-Cultural: Humor . ID: 365

<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=40&form_story_filter=365>
Reviewer: Thundera
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=86

> Tiger . 2005-08-04 16:29:27 Score: 3

Very cute story. Although I can't stand mushrooms myself, I enjoyed hearing
about the different ways others prepare them. I was almost hoping that
Boromir would continue his comment about where meat might come from in an
Orcish mushroom dinner, but Gandalf's right. Not while they're eating. He's
a wise wizard.

Title: Grasping at
<http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterlistview.asp?SID=3272> Moonbeams
Glistening . Author: Werecat
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=83

> . Races/Places: Cross-Cultural: Post-War of the Ring . ID: 363

<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=40&form_story_filter=363>
Reviewer: Thundera
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=86

> Tiger . 2005-08-04 16:30:11 Score: 4

Poor Nanwen. She's reaching high if she's set her sights on Legolas. I love
how Legolas is described in this story, too. He's so very different from
men, and the imagery he inspires in others is fascinating. But I love how
Nanwen comes to realize just what a far-fetched dream she has and how she
finds something far more attainable in an old soldier she's cared for. Good
conclusion that satisfies.

Title: Binding <http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterlistview.asp?SID=2708>
. Author: Forodwaith
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=50

> . Races/Places: Cross-Cultural . ID: 353

<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=40&form_story_filter=353>
Reviewer: Thundera
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=86

> Tiger . 2005-08-04 16:30:53 Score: 3

There's a wonderful sense of both dignity and grace in this piece, which is
something that I think must be found in any piece that features Aragorn and
Arwen. And it's simple, too, which is also good. Simple, but with some
profound underpinnings. And to my mind, that's the best way to showcase a
relationship.

Title: Dancing in the
<http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterlistview.asp?SID=3025> Darkness .
Author: Marnie
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=24
5> . Races/Places: Cross-Cultural: Pre-War of the Ring . ID: 476
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=40&form_story_filter=476>
Reviewer: Thundera
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=86

> Tiger . 2005-08-04 16:32:55 Score: 6

This story amazes me with its attention to detail. There's detail in the
dress, the hair, the dance, the song, the philosophy, and even what could be
taken as off-hand remarks or introspection. Celeborn's fear that he might be
lacking in the co-conspirator department is certainly put to rest by the end
of this story as he thoroughly educates his grandchildren on the traditions
of the Silvan elves. And what an education it is! I love how the two
cultures contrast so starkly at first. But by the end, they were coming
together to make something more, and even Celeborn seemed to realize that he
may have gone a little too far in his disapproval. Very intriguing story,
all around, and thank you for giving ALL elven cultures their due.

Title: Childhood
<http://www.henneth-annun.net/challenge/chapter_view.cfm?NGID=102&STID=2359&
SPOrdinal=23> Ends . Author: Marnie
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=24
5> . Races/Places: Cross-Cultural: Post-War of the Ring . ID: 474
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=40&form_story_filter=474>
Reviewer: Thundera
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=86

> Tiger . 2005-08-04 16:33:50 Score: 4

Bold move for Eldarion. I think it's the right choice, in the end, but it's
definitely saddening. The elves really have come to an end in Middle-earth.
I doubt that Celeborn would see himself as king, but Eldarion is right.
Gondor will have to change and grow, and though Celeborn is probably better
prepared to handle that than most other elves, it's still a kingdom of men.
Great concept, and as usual, wonderful story telling. Marnie does it again.

Title: The Life of a
<http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterlistview.asp?SID=2760> Bard . Author:
Dreamflower
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=11
5> . Races/Places: Cross-Cultural: Pre-War of the Ring . ID: 464
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=40&form_story_filter=464>
Reviewer: Thundera
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=86

> Tiger . 2005-08-04 16:35:39 Score: 6

Pippin might be the star of this little story, but I found myself more
interested in Frodo, and, in particular, Frodo's position in the Shire. He's
apparently trusted enough by the Thain to be able to take responsibility for
Pippin with naught much more than a letter. Granted that Paladin shows up
later, but even then, it's obvious that he respects Frodo. And Frodo
respects him in return, but he's not afraid to turn a rather condescending
look on him. (I love that Bilbo's "look" is even more effective when Frodo
uses it.) But back to Pippin, I liked his relationship with Menelcar, and I
liked the growh Pippin experiences because of that relationship. It leads
nicely into what he does on the Quest.

Title: Beyond the
<http://www.henneth-annun.net/stories/chapter.cfm?STID=4809> Borders .
Author: Marta
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=16

> . Races/Places: Cross-Cultural: Vignette . ID: 578

<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=40&form_story_filter=578>
Reviewer: Thundera
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=86

> Tiger . 2005-08-04 16:38:04 Score: 6

I really like this story's title and how well it relates to the overall
theme. Elrond's time on Middle-earth is nearly finished, and he's marveling
at how swiftly things move. He marvels even more when Halbeleg brings him
news from beyond his own borders, and I love the descriptions of everything
that's happening. I like best the idea that Halbarad's line is taking a
somewhat formal approach to the idea of stewards in the North, and I agree
with Elrond. Let it never be said that they are indolent. Good interlude
before Elrond sets sail, and nice examination of all the changes that are
taking place as the elves fade.

Title: Uncover
<http://www.henneth-annun.net/challenge/chapter_view.cfm?NGID=102&STID=2359&
SPOrdinal=16> the Past, Discover the Future . Author: Starlight
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=19
5> . Races/Places: Cross-Cultural: Vignette . ID: 524
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=40&form_story_filter=524>
Reviewer: Thundera
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=86

> Tiger . 2005-08-04 16:39:39 Score: 5

This is a brilliant little vignette about one of my favorite moments in
LotR: the formation of friendship between elf and dwarf. It's a very quiet
moment, too, which I think is appropriate, and I love how it's linked to the
discovery of two worlds. Gimli, with the book found in the Chamber of
Mazarbul, presents an interesting challenge for Legolas, who has now seen
something of the world of dwarves. And curious in turn, Gimli takes him up
on his offer to see something of the world of elves. It's made to feel very
natural in this story, and it's a step I can see both of them taking. Nice
work.

Title: A Matter of
<http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterlistview.asp?SID=383> Time . Author:
Shirebound
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=31
5> . Races/Places: Cross-Cultural . ID: 514
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=40&form_story_filter=514>
Reviewer: Thundera
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=86

> Tiger . 2005-08-04 16:40:50 Score: 3

I think my favorite thing about this story is the way Elrond acknowledges
Merry's search for information. And the way he uses that search as
justification for answering his questions about Pippin. That says quite a
lot about Merry, but also quite a lot about Elrond, who's been keeping tabs
on the way that everyone is preparing.

Title: Dropping
<http://www.tolkienfanfiction.com/Story_Read_Head.php?STid=223> Eaves .
Author: Paranoidangel
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=31
2> . Races/Places: Cross-Cultural: Pre-War of the Ring . ID: 505
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=40&form_story_filter=505>
Reviewer: Thundera
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=86

> Tiger . 2005-08-04 16:42:19 Score: 4

So Sam meets Gandalf. I can easily see Gandalf scaring him initially, but I
can also see Sam overcoming his fear in favor of curiosity. That seems to
happen more often than not during the course of his journeys. Good early
characterization. I also liked the way he applied Bilbo's tales to every day
life, such as spiders in the garden or plans to visit the elves. He's a
gardener at heart, but there's more to Sam than just that and this story
shows that well.

Title: Stars and
<http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterlistview.asp?SID=2607> Sniffles .
Author: SlightlyTookish
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=20
5> . Races/Places: Cross-Cultural: Pre-War of the Ring . ID: 817
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=40&form_story_filter=817>
Reviewer: Thundera
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=86

> Tiger . 2005-08-04 16:46:40 Score: 4

Gandalf was brilliant in this story. He was that impossible-to-nail-down,
badgering wizard who sends Bilbo off on an adventure while remembering to
bring some pocket handkerchiefs. I loved his conversation with Pippin, and I
love the idea that Pippin actually WANTS to be turned into a toad. That
strikes me as not unlike Pippin. Great moment between the two.

Title: The Wisdom of
<http://www.henneth-annun.net/stories/chapter.cfm?STID=160> Friendship .
Author: Finch
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=27
4> . Races/Places: Cross-Cultural: Vignette . ID: 734
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=40&form_story_filter=734>
Reviewer: Thundera
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=86

> Tiger . 2005-08-04 16:49:24 Score: 4

Great story about that first meeting between Finrod and Balan. I like how
the perspective went back and forth between the two and how they both
learned so many things from the other. Balan seems to me to be very wise
indeed, despite his giving of that name to Finrod. I liked how he came to
terms with the idea of immortality and decided it was a good thing because
it meant he wasn't taking up Finrod's time. Certainly an ingenious way to
look at it.

Title: Toy Story
<http://www.henneth-annun.net/stories/chapter.cfm?STID=3912> . Author:
Gwynnyd
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=18
6> . Races/Places: Cross-Cultural: Vignette . ID: 411
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=40&form_story_filter=411>
Reviewer: Thundera
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=86

> Tiger . 2005-08-04 16:51:36 Score: 7

There was a single line in this story that really stood out to me: "A
brother by any name is always welcome." And that's essentially what happens.
Estel, now Aragorn, is welcomed by Elrohir, who has been holding on to the
toy soldier of Arathorn for many years. The conversation between the two is
brilliant, and there are so many levels to Aragorn. He's a young man in a
time of transition, and it shows. He goes from somber to laughing to tears
to uncertainty almost as quickly as an elf might, and it's clear that he's
dealing with a lot of unexpected issues. But he seems to be dealing well, as
laughter wins out in the end. I also love Elrohir's treatment of Aragorn's
questions. He makes the conversation light enough to avoid bogging them both
down, but he gives it the seriousness it deserves, too. Great little
interlude in the change from Estel to Aragorn.

Title: Leaves
<http://www.henneth-annun.net/challenge/chapter.cfm?STID=419&NGID=1> and
Stones . Author: Starlight
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=19
5> . Races/Places: Cross-Cultural: Vignette . ID: 522
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=40&form_story_filter=522>
Reviewer: Thundera
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=86

> Tiger . 2005-08-04 16:52:29 Score: 7

This vignette was a fantastic blend of humor, wonder, and friendship. The
first part, particularly the fact that Legolas brought gold into Aglarond in
case he needed to be let out should he stray in, was hilarious. I loved the
idea that Gimli was a bit off in his reckoning but refused to tell Legolas,
instead saying that they weren't lost. They just hadn't been "enlightened."
Very dwarven thing to say. But when they finally found the chamber Gimli had
been looking for, the humor faded into beauty. The descriptions were
amazing, but even more telling were the reactions of elf and dwarf. And then
when Legolas found something to catch his attention, something that both he
and the dwarf could relate to, it brought a wonderful sense of completeness
to the story. Good writing, and good use of many moods and tones.

Title: The Mark of a... <http://www.scribeoz.com/fanfic/story.php?no=1315>
Warrior? . Author: Ariel
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=16
2> . Races/Places: Cross-Cultural: Humor . ID: 133
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=40&form_story_filter=133>
Reviewer: Thundera
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=86

> Tiger . 2005-08-04 16:53:58 Score: 7

*snort* Oh, this was priceless. Absolutely priceless. I was laughing so hard
the first time I read it that I had to stop a few times in order to breathe.
I think part of what makes this so funny is the way it dances around what is
happening. As readers, we all know what's going on, but the narrative never
comes right out and says it. And the characters do the same thing. No one
ever says anything about what's happening, but they all know it. I loved
watching them get up with various degrees of awareness, and I loved watching
that awareness grow as things begin to click. I gave a loud guffaw at the
reproving remark of "Pippin" and I laughed loudest of all at the very end
when Gandalf looks up and mutters "hobbits." But my favorite part was
probably the fact that the hobbits won, and they won without even trying
because it took them longest to realize there was a contest of sorts
happening. Oh dear. Pardon me while I wander off and guffaw some more.

Title: Ho, Ho! My
<http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterlistview.asp?SID=2824> Lads . Author:
Dreamflower/Marigold
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=46
1> CoAuthors . Races/Places: Cross-Cultural: Pre-War of the Ring . ID: 1170
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=40&form_story_filter=1170>
Reviewer: Thundera
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=86

> Tiger . 2005-08-04 16:56:38 Score: 6

This was such a fun little story. Pippin's enthusiasm was brilliant, and I
loved the way he greeted the dwarves. Good thing they were patient. I think
my favorite part, though, was the fact that Frodo noticed there were little
eavesdroppers. He's a sharp one, and his subtle efforts at discovering them
were brilliant, even though he couldn't quite spot them the first time
around. It's a good thing that both Merry and Pippin became a lot better at
covering things up later on when they formed their conspiracy. And thank you
for providing a reason for the presence of Merry and Pippin up at Bag End.
That made the story fit so well into Tolkien's world.

Title: In <http://www.henneth-annun.net/stories/chapter.cfm?STID=3011>
Absentia . Author: Zimraphel
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=33
9> . Races/Places: Cross-Cultural . ID: 1010
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=40&form_story_filter=1010>
Reviewer: Thundera
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=86

> Tiger . 2005-08-04 16:57:26 Score: 5

Fascinating characterization of Valandil. I hadn't ever quite imagined him
this way, but the story was very persuasive and I quickly became a believer.
Kudos to Elrond for reining him in from time to time and for always being
ready with wise advice. It was sorely needed. I really liked the moment when
Valandil broke down, wishing for just something of his father. The emotions
were conveyed very well, and Elrond's response to it was perfect. Great bit
of foreshadowing, too, when Elrond tells him that Narsil will be kept for
some future hope.



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