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99 Final Reviews Yesterday! It's good to see the numbers coming back
up.

Title: Devil of Kindness · Author: Nancy Brooke · Books/Time: Gap-
Filler: Drabble · ID: 685
Reviewer: Marta · 2005-08-31 21:49:18 Score: 3
It's interesting that you claim that Gandalf's true study was
shadows, not light. Because in several places the books say that his
area of study was fire, but when you look at his deeds shadows make
sense, too. I especially like how you animated the different lands of
Middle-earth.

Title: Halbarad · Author: Fileg · Books/Time: Gap-Filler: Grey
Company · ID: 341
Reviewer: Marta · 2005-08-31 21:49:40 Score: 8
Halbarad has his say at a very important crossroads in his life. Of
course, given it's Halbarad he says less than 500 words -- but what a
500 words they are! Fileg certainly packs a lot into this piece:
Halbarad's and all of the Grey Company's fealty to Aragorn, realised
in Halbarad's statement that there is no way Aragorn will travel the
Paths of the Dead alone; his status as Aragorn's "brother" among men,
realised by his place riding beside Aragorn and Elrohir (Aragorn's
Elven foster-brother), and the fey quality that surrounds it all. The
connection Fileg creates between Halbarad and the Dead underscores
(to me at least) the state of Arnor as a kingless kingdom being in
many ways dead, and the kinship between the Gondorians and dunedain
of the North that many among both groups might prefer to ignore. But
it's there nonetheless. However, I think the thing about this that
really touched me was the way Halbarad never descends into maudlin
but keeps his very pragmatic outlook. Statements like "I was one of
them, just a little warmer... though not much, and not for long"
accomplish this beautifully. Very, very well done, Fileg.

Title: Midnight at Bag End · Author: jodancingtree · Races/Places:
Hobbits: Post-Ring War · ID: 749
Reviewer: Marta · 2005-08-31 21:49:57 Score: 3
This piece was a very nice examination of Frodo's reasons for leaving
the Shire, and his reasons for leaving. The inner torment is there,
but it doesn't overshadow all, which I thought was a nice change. I
also liked the relationship between Frodo and Rosie hinted at here;
it reminded me of pleasant frolics through Jodancingtree's longer
pieces.

Title: Rosie's Year · Author: Ruby Nye · Genres: Drama (includes
Angst): The Shire · ID: 795
Reviewer: Vistula the Dunadan · 2005-08-31 22:36:48 Score: 8
This story is absolutely wonderful! I love how Ruby has taken what is
written in canon about the Scouring of the Shire and has woven the
tale of Rosie's Year around it. I love the intensity of emotions that
she portrays in those who were left behind, and shows how they suffer
to hold the home front.

Rose is often a "forgotten" character in fan fiction (particularly
slash fiction) unless being used as a negative foil between Sam and
Frodo. I love seeing her in this very strong role. No frail and
fainting flower here!!

I've always loved the relationship that Ruby shows in her fics
between Frodo, Sam and Rosie, and this tale is no different. Her
triangle of love, passion and devotion between these three very
strong characters is palpable and believable. I have never been one
to enjoy fics where there is tension between Frodo and Rosie, much
preferring a loving relationship between the two hobbits at the
center of Sam's world. Ruby has never disappointed!

This is an excellent piece. Kudos and well done!!

Title: Duty · Author: Dwimordene · Races/Places: Gondor: Drabble ·
ID: 240
Reviewer: Vistula the Dunadan · 2005-08-31 22:53:52 Score: 3
This is such a powerful drabble, giving a firm view into what Boromir
may have been thinking at this particular point in the journey.
Thinking only of the salvation of Gondor, like any warrior he chooses
the path he sees best. I'm so glad that Dwim shows us that he is
indeed regretful of the choice he will soon make.

Well done! And all in only 100 words.

Title: Changes · Author: Dwimordene · Races/Places: Hobbits: Post-
Ring War Drabble · ID: 231
Reviewer: Vistula the Dunadan · 2005-08-31 22:59:32 Score: 4
This is sweet, sweet, sweet!!

I love the happy images mixed with just a hint of melancholy. But the
pleasant definitely outweighs the sad. The images of Sam as "blushing
mayor" and little Pippin in love are heart warming and definitely
show that although the Shire is fraught with change, not all those
changes are bad.

It's great seeing things from Merry's point of view too. This is not
a perspective that is seen often enough. Well done!

Title: The Colors of Passing · Author: Larner · Genres: Drama
(includes Angst): Gapfiller · ID: 789
Reviewer: Vistula the Dunadan · 2005-08-31 23:12:17 Score: 5
I really enjoyed this Larner, as I enjoy all of your pieces. It
clutched at my heart, making me want to weep with grief over Frodo's
hopelessness, and then for joy with his eventual steps toward healing.

I am *always* caught up in your imagery and in the emotions you are
able to portray. Your use of color and the intensity you create
through it is remarkable. You are a master weaver, tying each part of
this vignette together first with vivid images of Frodo's torment in
the "red" section, then his despair in the "white" section, and
finally his acceptance and healing in the "blue."

Most excellently done!

Title: For Eyes to See as Can · Author: Larner · Books/Time: The Lord
of The Rings: The Shire · ID: 176
Reviewer: Vistula the Dunadan · 2005-08-31 23:24:04 Score: 6
This piece, as well as the companion piece "Filled With Light as With
Water," is an example of Gap filler at it's best! Larner brings her
characters, particularly Sam, to life with her excellent use of voice
and characterization that keeps you in the story at all times.

I love seeing tales told from Sam's point of view and this one is no
exception! She brings him to life with an emotion and intensity that
I haven't often seen in fan fiction. Even with a fresh and
different "view" of Frodo's final journey, I feel that Larner stays
true to Canon. The premise is believable and enjoyable in a
bittersweet way.

Very well done!! This story and its companion piece are
definitely "keepers" in my personal fan fiction collection.

Title: No Rival · Author: Tanaqui · Books/Time: Gap-Filler: Drabble ·
ID: 544
Reviewer: Vistula the Dunadan · 2005-08-31 23:34:11 Score: 3
Excellent double drabble! It's great to see both these very strong
women through one another's eyes. I suspect they both *would* have
been quite anxious over meeting each other, and you've portrayed that
apprehension and their ultimate acceptance with grace and style. It
is easy to imagine them becoming friends.

Title: Chasing and Burg'ling · Author: Marta · Races/Places: Hobbits:
Post-Ring War Drabble · ID: 580
Reviewer: Vistula the Dunadan · 2005-08-31 23:51:53 Score: 2
This drabble is a wonderful chuckle! I love the Gaffer and you've
brought his voice and spirit to life. "Burgling dragons" *snerk* How
can you not love that image? And the Gaffer's obsession with
his 'taters is priceless.

A fun read! Well done.

Title: Aragorn: The Owner's Guide and Maintenance Manual · Author:
Theresa Green · Genres: Humor: Aragorn · ID: 1154
Reviewer: Raksha the Demon · 2005-08-31 23:55:20 Score: 3
Bwha-ha-haaaaaa! This is one of the best of Theresa Green's
delightful LOTR Owner's Guide And Maintenance Manuals. She's caught
Movie-Aragorn very well; and yes, several repeated shampoos of a
chloroformed model would probably be necessary.

Title: And the Halfling Forth Shall Stand · Author: Shirebound ·
Races/Places: Hobbits: War of the Ring · ID: 511
Reviewer: Vistula the Dunadan · 2005-08-31 23:57:36 Score: 3
This is quite an interesting take on the statement "And the Halfling
Forth Shall Stand." Who *would* have taken the ring if Frodo had
died? I like how Frodo reasons through the possible choices and
justifies why one or the other of his companions would make a
successful ringbearer. Great insight into each of his three friends.

Title: A Gift · Author: Forodwaith · Races/Places: Hobbits: Drabble ·
ID: 370
Reviewer: Vistula the Dunadan · 2005-09-01 00:00:34 Score: 3
This is an extremely adorible view of Pippin as a child. I can feel
his joy and excitement at receiving such a special mathom. Being a
younger child of the family, and a tomboy, I can sympathize with
Pippin in getting "less than satisfactory" gifts while growing up -
since I often got girly things when I'd have preferred a sword.

Well done!

Title: Spoons · Author: LKK · Races/Places: Hobbits: Drabble · ID: 644
Reviewer: Vistula the Dunadan · 2005-09-01 00:01:22 Score: 4
Oh goodness! Don't you just love a person who seizes what she is due -
even if it belongs to someone else. Ah, poor Lobelia - to be so
motivated by greed and an overdeveloped sense of being wronged as to
throw away the love of family. I'd laugh, if she didn't remind me of
a particular member of my OWN family. But Lobelia did change in the
end, and that gives hope to us all doesn't it?

I love the image of her malformed umbrella!

Title: Elements of the Resistance · Author: Marta · Races/Places:
Hobbits: Drabble · ID: 939
Reviewer: Vistula the Dunadan · 2005-09-01 00:07:23 Score: 4
This is a chillingly wonderful series of drabbles centered around an
often forgotten hobbit character in LotR. I feel a great deal of
sympathy, respect and admiration for Fatty as he is portrayed here
through the use of five elements. Earth and Fire both made me cringe.
I could feel his pain, his desperation, his despair.

Hard - emotionally - to read in places, but well worth it! I'm amazed
at how much Marta has managed to say in such a small number of words.

Title: The Council of Elrond in the Style of Hiawatha · Author:
Theresa Green · Genres: Crossovers: Poetry · ID: 559
Reviewer: Raksha the Demon · 2005-09-01 00:17:53 Score: 3
(with apologies to Longfellow and Nokomis)

Snork! Who the heck is Hiawatha? And who cares?! This is a hilarious
treatment of the wonderful Council of Elrond; presumably the one in
the book. Very, very funny. Loved the bit about Elrond's unhappy
contemplation of his very scruffy future son-in-law.

Title: Duet · Author: Aratlithiel · Books/Time: Post-Ring War: Gap-
Filler · ID: 886
Reviewer: Cuthalion · 2005-09-01 07:27:22 Score: 5
This is probably one of the tales that influenced me most concerning
my view on Merry and Pippin. Where Tolkien writes them (mostly) as
relatively carefree, happy characters, Aratlithiel gives them depth
and bone-deep feelings, and their bitter, angry sorrow at the loss of
Frodo Baggins is palpable enough to hurt. She also manages to portray
them as very different persons - different in their very unique way
to handle their grief and their unanswered questions. Masterly
thought out and written, and absolutely worth every single re-read.

Title: A Pint of Trouble · Author: Mariposa · Books/Time: The Lord of
The Rings: The Shire · ID: 890
Reviewer: Cuthalion · 2005-09-01 07:37:52 Score: 7
I discovered Mariposa and her tales about one year ago, and I was
immediately thrilled by her security of style and her art of
storytelling. This is an easy, humorous, warmhearted piece about the
adventures of a (more or less) grown up Frodo, a rather mischievous
Merry and a cute and rather "exhausting" Pip (no wonder for a toddler
at that age...). They plan to visit a pub (without any permission, of
course), and Little Pip learns words he never knew before - and
repeats them in the worst of moments...

""Pint!" he shouts gleefully, eager to show off his new word. "Pint,
pint, pint pint pint! Mama Papa Puh Pim Bicca Mee Fro pint!" Frodo
spills his mug of punch all over the table just as Paladin drops a
saucer onto the floor."

Oy vey. *giggles* I can only highly recommend this wonderfully
hilarious tale to everyone who enjoys well-written childhood-tales of
our famous hobbit heroes. Go and read!


Title: The Ringbearer and the Rose · Author: Rabidsamfan ·
Books/Time: The Lord of The Rings: Post-Ring War · ID: 891
Reviewer: Cuthalion · 2005-09-01 07:48:24 Score: 8
The first thing I read from this author were her wonderful drabbles.
But this tale will always have a very special place in my heart.

Sam is not only the sturdy hero, but a suffering person with
astonishing, painful depth, and the roles are (for once) different,
for it is Frodo who takes the role to comfort his servant and friend
and to give him strength. An additional "plus" is the way rabidsamfan
handles Rosie: a clever, strong, loving woman with a big heart and
natural wisdom, willingly playing a part in the plans of Master
Baggins to help her beloved gardener. And never - never ever! - have
I seen such an awesome, lyrical, overwhelmingly beautiful description
of how the Lady Galadriel's gift starts to work its blessing on the
Shire:

"And then a strange movement caught his eye. Dandelion leaves
creeping out over the grass. Frodo stared past Rosie's shoulder,
frozen with the realization that he was watching a flower push its
way out of the ground. "Rose?" he said, "look."

"No, you look," she said, her voice hoarse with awe."

Utterly, utterly glorious. If you have missed this yet, you should
run and read.




Title: Coming Home · Author: SilverMoonLady · Books/Time: Post-Ring
War: Romance · ID: 1071
Reviewer: Cuthalion · 2005-09-01 07:53:47 Score: 4
I remember how surprised (and impressed!) I was when I heard that
this was one of the author's first pieces of fanfiction. It is an
astonishingly detailed tale of Merry's and Pippin's adventures in the
Shire after the Ring War, and also a painful, highly convincing
summary of what happened to their home during the hard times when
they were gone. Included is a heartwarming, gently erotic love-
story... a delight to read!

Title: A Chief's Day · Author: Ruby Nye · Books/Time: The Lord of The
Rings: The Shire · ID: 892
Reviewer: Cuthalion · 2005-09-01 07:58:39 Score: 4
This was one of the very first tales by Ruby Nye I translated into
german and put on my site - a merciless gaze at a weak character that
brought suffering and despair over the Shire simply by being greedy,
weak and thoughtless. The story is one of the (very few) portraits of
Lotho Sackville I can accept and support, and it is frightening and
very well done at the same time. Brace yourself and read!

Title: Mind to Mind · Author: Shirebound · Genres: Alternate
Universe: Post-LOTR · ID: 894
Reviewer: Cuthalion · 2005-09-01 08:05:29 Score: 6
The concept of this tale by a well-known and well-loved author of
fanfiction is absolutely thrilling (and even more or less supported
by the Professor himself). What if the ring gave Frodo the
possibilities to share the dreams of those who also wore the rings of
power Sauron helped to forge?

The basic idea is only the beginning of a wonderfully crafted tale,
with corageous hobbits, a friendly, strong Celeborn (thank you thank
you thank you!), two very remarkable portraits of Arwen's twin
brothers, an evil villain (rather unusual for those who know
shirebound's gentle talel, but absolutely convincing and pitch-dark)
and chapter after chapter of a thrilling story you can't stop reading
as soon as you have started to read. Absolutely BRAVO!

Title: Light out of Darkness · Author: Shirebound · Books/Time: Post-
Ring War: Gap-Filler · ID: 895
Reviewer: Cuthalion · 2005-09-01 08:08:56 Score: 3
Shirebounds tale are like a good cask of wine... getting better and
better with age (both of author and tales). This delightful
collection of scenes takes the basic theme of "light" and spins a
handful of shining scenes with Frodo and the various members of the
Fellowship around it. Utterly wonderful!

Title: Cradling · Author: Nickey · Races/Places: Hobbits: Merry &
Pippin · ID: 1100
Reviewer: Marta · 2005-09-01 13:31:53 Score: 3
This is an interesting story and did a good job of characterising
both Merry and Pippin dindividually, and giving a look at their
relationship. The comma splices could have been used more effectively
to capture the tense state of things if they had been used more
sparingly. Nevertheless, it was a good read.

Title: Welcoming the Lady · Author: Marta · Genres: Romance: Vignette
· ID: 967
Reviewer: Tanaqui · 2005-09-01 13:33:36 Score: 4
Marta paints a charming picture in this ficlet about Éowyn settling
into her new life in Ithilien. We feel Éowyn's wonder at the beauties
of her new homeland, but also Faramir's delight in sharing them with
her – and perhaps also his wonder and pleasure that she is there at
all! Marta also gives us a moment in which Éowyn ponders her fate and
realises she has no regrets. Delightful.

Title: To Water the Dust · Author: Eruanna · Books/Time: Gap-Filler:
Hobbits · ID: 77
Reviewer: Marta · 2005-09-01 13:58:19 Score: 8
I think what I like most about this very short piece is that I had to
sit and think just who the narrator was. Of course, there doesn't
always have to be one, but for me I enjoy a story more if I can place
one (personal quirk, no slight intended on authors who write in the
omniscient.) At first I thought it might be the spirit of the Land of
Mordor itself, perhaps recalling Legolas's statement that the rocks
of Hollin "cry out" to him if one is to take that statement
literally, but then the author refers to different physical things in
Mordor in the third person. I finally settled that it would probably
be the PTB -- Ulmo or perhaps Yavanna or even Eru Iluvatar. In either
case, it was a very interesting revelation when I started to think
that Mordor was still part of Middle-earth, even if it was corrupted.
I can imagine Yavanna just waiting for Sauron to be vanquished so she
can come in and help heal its physical wounds so that it will become
a green land once again. That's my somewhat idyllic vision, anyway.
Really, this was a very enjoyable piece. You captured well the fact
that there were very few coincidences on the Quest.

Title: Love and Healing · Author: pippinfan88 · Books/Time: The Lord
of The Rings: Hobbits · ID: 1035
Reviewer: Bodkin · 2005-09-01 14:05:37 Score: 4
This is such an amusing tale - I can just see a little girl falling
for the hobbits. I think Pippin is a touch irritated that Merry is
the centre of her attention, even though he doesn't want her to turn
her eyes on him. She's much better off with Bergil. On the other
hand, the honey-nut pastries are clearly better off in Merry's care!
(Although Sam does need to eat enough to learn how to make them.)

Title: Tongues of Gondor · Author: Marta · Genres: Non-Fiction: Men ·
ID: 963
Reviewer: Tanaqui · 2005-09-01 14:06:54 Score: 6
Marta has gathered together some useful quotes on the languages that
might be spoken in Gondor or by Gondorians from the canon sources
(those published during Tolkien's lifetime and with his full
approval), and made some interesting observations and deductions. I
don't always agree entirely with her conclusions, particulary in the
sections on Adunaic and the language of Rohan, and I would very much
like to see this article extended to take in some of the materials on
languages in essays in the History of Middle-earth series and
from "Letters". However, I think this essay provides an excellent
practical starting point for anyone writing fanfic set in Gondor.

Title: Under the Lonely Mountain Cold · Author: Marta · Races/Places:
Villains: Poetry · ID: 965
Reviewer: Thundera Tiger · 2005-09-01 14:12:34 Score: 4
Leave it to the dwarves to turn the death of their murderer and
exiler into a drinking song. It makes sense, though. Tolkien tells us
that dwarves have long memories, but they wouldn't want to poison
their reclaimed home with thoughts of their long exile and the dragon
that caused it. So instead, they make it a source of merriment and
turn Smaug's death into a drinking song. Sounds good to me.

Title: Sauron · Author: Joan Milligan · Races/Places: Villains:
Poetry · ID: 442
Reviewer: Thundera Tiger · 2005-09-01 14:13:11 Score: 6
I've decided that Joan Milligan has an absolute gift for closing
lines, because as with the poem "Melkor," the final lines in this
were the best part. It's chilling to listen to Sauron brush off the
possibility of his own demise in light of what he's accomplished. For
him, death is an acceptable trade-off for the destruction of Numenor,
and that's a bit frightening. I also really liked the lines about
evil or freedom of heart. There's an interesting connection between
the two that is hinted at throughout the poem but never openly
discussed. It's probably more effective that way, too. Fantastic
ideas, and great look at Sauron on the day of Numenor's destruction.

Title: Melkor · Author: Joan Milligan · Races/Places: Villains:
Poetry · ID: 440
Reviewer: Thundera Tiger · 2005-09-01 14:13:33 Score: 3
When I read the end of this poem, I couldn't help but be reminded of
Milton and various other religious writers who had a philosophical
slant to their work. The idea of needing darkness for light and light
for darkness is a fascinating one for me, and Melkor's right.
Iluvatar never names him as evil but rather as part of the greater
song. Fascinating insight.

Title: Prince of Pride · Author: Marta · Races/Places: Villains:
Poetry · ID: 577
Reviewer: Thundera Tiger · 2005-09-01 14:14:12 Score: 3
I really like this poem. It's very simple on the surface, but it
encompasses so much of the early Silmarillion and hints at so much
more. The allusions come fast and furious, and I can easily see
Manwe, with his far-sight, using them to convince Varda that her
place is with him.

Title: Death Doth Come · Author: Marta · Races/Places: Villains:
Poetry · ID: 936
Reviewer: Thundera Tiger · 2005-09-01 14:14:55 Score: 6
For what it's worth, I think it's a brilliant rework of the original.
The second stanza (ie: the altered original) feels a bit more sing-
song to me, and I like that. More like it could be chanted or half-
sung, and that makes the scene in the Barrow easier to imagine. I was
intrigued by the relacement of water for stars and stone for gold. It
gave it more of a graveyard feel, which was good. And as for the
first stanza, I loved the last line: "And on this day it calls for
you." It fit so nicely and felt so natural there, but it was also
chilling, especially with phrases like "darkness, deaf and blind"
preceding it. Well written. I think it could pass for canon.

Title: Alas, Poor Ufthak! · Author: Elena Tiriel · Races/Places:
Villains: Drabble · ID: 200
Reviewer: Thundera Tiger · 2005-09-01 14:22:15 Score: 3
Alas indeed! Funny thing, though; the orcs don't seem too upset about
losing one of their number. Perhaps "alas" isn't quite the right word
to use. But in all seriousness, I liked how callous the orcs were
toward Ufthak. It became a big joke to them, and that feels very in
character with orcs. Nicely done.

Title: Roast Mutton · Author: Marta · Races/Places: Villains: Drabble
· ID: 1362
Reviewer: Thundera Tiger · 2005-09-01 14:22:37 Score: 3
Brilliant synopsis of Bilbo's encounter with a bunch of trolls.
Certainly much shorter than the original, yet it still managed to
convey the humor, the miserable conditions, and confusion that
Tolkien wrote about. To see that contained within a drabble is fairly
remarkable. Good job.

Title: Triumph Incarnate · Author: Elena Tiriel · Races/Places:
Villains: Drabble · ID: 198
Reviewer: Thundera Tiger · 2005-09-01 14:24:05 Score: 4
I'll freely admit upfront that Sauron's gloating gave me chills. He's
far too clever for his own good, in my opinion, and his gloating here
was just...creepy. This drabble really did make him feel like triumph
incarnate, and that spooked me. The utter disaster of losing Numenor
became that much more significant for me thanks to seeing just how
happy Sauron was about it. Very well done drabble!

Title: The Men of the South · Author: Dwimordene · Races/Places:
Villains: Drabble · ID: 233
Reviewer: Thundera Tiger · 2005-09-01 14:24:41 Score: 4
I'm very thankful to wonderful authors like Dwimordene who decided to
write about the view from the other side of the war. This drabble
hints that circumstances were desperate all around as a father gives
up his son as a means of payment. Definitely a sobering thought, and
it makes one pause while reading about the glorious victory on the
Pelennor Fields. Someone really ought to write a song for the dead of
the defeated. Right now, we only have a song for the dead of the
victorious.

Title: Orc's Best Friend · Author: Forodwaith · Races/Places:
Villains: Drabble · ID: 384
Reviewer: Thundera Tiger · 2005-09-01 14:27:13 Score: 5
I like this drabble! Dissension in the ranks seems to be a wide-
spread problem among the forces of evil, and I love the fact that
it's so wide-spread as to include the Wargs. I also liked the
contrast between the Wargs and Orcs as far as the stars were
concerned, and how the Wargs even watched for certain constellations.
I must admit to feeling a bit of sympathy to the Warg that was
kicked, and I hope her cubs DO feed on Orc-flesh one of these days.
Of course, the Orcs would probably return the favor, and the cycle
would continue. One of the big Bosses might want to look into this in
the future.

Title: October Quickenings · Author: Budgielover · Races/Places:
Hobbits: Post-Ring War · ID: 676
Reviewer: Bodkin · 2005-09-01 14:30:47 Score: 3
Courage. Just about sums up Frodo. The courage to face the unfaceable
and endure as long as he must. But Sam now - his courage is
different. He has the strength that will start again and rebuild a
world torn down. The two of them together - lovely. This is a
delightful story.

Title: The Long March · Author: Tanaqui · Races/Places: Villains:
Drabble · ID: 542
Reviewer: Thundera Tiger · 2005-09-01 14:31:38 Score: 5
What lies and threats indeed. I wonder what kind of PR campaign
Sauron had running in Harad and Khand. Saruman obviously had
effective propoganda among the Dunlendings, and I can only imagine
what Sauron, once the sly Annatar, had in place on his end. This
particular man seems to be convinced of Gondor's evils, and it's
definitely a sorrowing thought. How many on both sides were decieved?
And how far did the deception stretch? And was there perhaps a grain
of truth to it in some instances? That's when the thoughts start to
get dangerous.

Title: Nine Riders · Author: Rabidsamfan · Races/Places: Villains:
Drabble · ID: 791
Reviewer: Thundera Tiger · 2005-09-01 14:32:55 Score: 7
This was a VERY interesting drabble. For as dark as some of the
Nazgul were, there others of a decidedly humorous mindset. Nazgul #3,
for example, with his "I'm flying" made me laugh. I almost expected
him to next say, "I can see my house!" #1's ponderings on
Glorfindel's grammar made me smile, too. But there were some I found
to be most intriguing. #5, for example, seemed to have philosophical
leanings, and #8 was apparently obsessed with horses. Strange Nazgul,
both of them. #4 and #2 I found to be the most disturbing, though. #4
seemed to be fixated on the destruction of the elves, and his idea of
teaching them something in return gave me shivers. But #2 (whom I am
going to assume is Khamul because Khamul has always fascinated me)
was probably the most dangerous because he remembered victories, he
remembered defeats, and he learned from them. That's never a good
thing, especially if you're one of the good guys. Great drabble, and
great personalities!

Title: Return to Rivendell · Author: Shirebound · Races/Places:
Hobbits: Post-Ring War · ID: 1115
Reviewer: Bodkin · 2005-09-01 14:38:28 Score: 3
My very favourite part is when Pippin's suggestion leads to the four
hobbits flying with the Great Eagles. Such a beautiful moment.
Although Bilbo's gold run runs it close. I love the feeling of
hopefulness here - it leaves the story at a good moment, with a
promise for the future.

Title: The Cornfield · Author: Tanaqui · Races/Places: Villains · ID:
530
Reviewer: Thundera Tiger · 2005-09-01 14:43:23 Score: 3
It all makes so much sense now! I wasn't particularly jolted by this
scene in the movies, but the more I think about it, the more out-of-
place it feels. Thank you for clueing the rest of us in as to why
there was corn in the Shire. Should have known it would be the work
of the Sackville-Bagginses.

Title: Giving Gifts · Author: Dwimordene · Races/Places: Villains ·
ID: 241
Reviewer: Thundera Tiger · 2005-09-01 14:44:03 Score: 4
I love stories that look at the other side of the war, and I really
like the honor shown among the Haradrim. It feels so solid and so
real, and it's offset nicely with little things, like soap to force
tears or the everyday task of braiding another's hair. The Haradrim
feel like a complete culture here, with beliefs, failings, fears, and
conviction. They're definitely a formidable people, and I wouldn't
want to run into this boy when he grows up and decides to offer his
own gifts.

Title: Servant of Elbereth · Author: Beethoven's 7th · Races/Places:
Villains · ID: 796
Reviewer: Thundera Tiger · 2005-09-01 14:44:40 Score: 4
Fascinating. Tolkien has tales of elves who seemed to tread on the
darker side of life as well as elves who ended up Houseless because
of it. But we never get to hear if this holds true for any orcs, and
I like this orc's curiosity about something that's always drawn him.
It's not a complete change of heart, necessarily, but it's a glimmer
of light that he has to follow, and he changes along the way.
Interesting idea.

Title: The Sand Circle · Author: A L Milton · Races/Places: Villains
· ID: 49
Reviewer: Thundera Tiger · 2005-09-01 14:45:28 Score: 5
The characters in this were so sharp and vivid. Kuon, especially,
impressed me. With no speaking role, she somehow managed to keep
stealing the spotlight, as was probably her right. I loved her pride
and her haughtiness. The other two characters also make a very strong
presence, and the tale that Anguo shared drew me in and kept me
there. I loved this glimpse into one of the southern cultures, and I
love their theory on the oliphaunts and how they came to be among
them. Brilliant story telling.

Title: Red Fire, Black Blood · Author: just_sphinx · Races/Places:
Villains · ID: 1121
Reviewer: Thundera Tiger · 2005-09-01 14:45:57 Score: 4
Morgoth definitely has some fascinating thoughts about Maedhros, but
strangely enough, I found his initial thoughts about the Valar and
the Eldar to be even more interesting than the rest of the story. I
like his charge of passiveness, and I especially like Morgoth's claim
that he created nothing that did not already exist. That says a lot
about the elves and the orcs, and it's something I wish was further
explored. Good insights, even so.

Title: Gift of Rule · Author: Lyllyn · Races/Places: Villains: Nazgul
· ID: 470
Reviewer: Thundera Tiger · 2005-09-01 14:46:29 Score: 3
I really enjoy Second Age stories of Sauron because I love to see him
as Annatar. It's like temptation personified, and if done correctly
(as it is here) it's very powerful. This story shows us just how the
road to hell was paved, and it's almost painful to watch. Poor man.
Well done.

Title: Once · Author: Meril · Races/Places: Villains: Nazgul · ID: 485
Reviewer: Thundera Tiger · 2005-09-01 14:46:58 Score: 4
There's a powerful sense of...I hesitate to use the word nostalgia,
but I don't know that I'm going to find anything closer. Lost
history, maybe, but that doesn't really fit, either. In any case, I
like the feeling of something gone that will never come again.
Something that's lost to the past and feels almost as though it
happened to another man in another life. It's very sobering, and we
can almost feel the Witch-king's fall as he raises his sword. Great
mood work.

Title: Sweet Meat · Author: Ijemanja · Races/Places: Villains · ID:
1073
Reviewer: Thundera Tiger · 2005-09-01 14:49:06 Score: 6
Waiting villains scare me. The bad guys who are willing to bide their
time and have enough patience to let the heroes become complacent
are, in my opinion, the most dangerous villains of all. And that can
be seen here with Shelob. I love the way her hunger is painted and
how she's almost desperate for something nourishing. But even then,
she doesn't go out of her way to hunt. She goes as far as she needs
to and then she relents. It's a slow building of both strength and
tension, and it doesn't bode well for the men who might now be
wandering her pass. The combination of patience and a growing hunter
(which reminds me of Ungoliant) could be deadly, and I loved the
foreboding last lines. Good writing.

Title: This Too Shall Pass · Author: Isabeau of Greenlea ·
Races/Places: Villains: Nazgul · ID: 742
Reviewer: Thundera Tiger · 2005-09-01 14:49:46 Score: 5
*snort* You gotta love dark humor, and this story is filled with it.
Yes, the Dark Lord now has his Ring and all of Middle-earth is about
to go to the dogs, but getting the Ring this way...it's hilarious.
That scene was a major tripping point for me when I went to go see
The Two Towers, and this is the best parody take-off from it that
I've read yet. Poor fell beast. I suspect this was a bit more
traumatic than, say, passing a kidney stone. At least kidney stones
don't contain a measure of Sauron's former power. Brilliantly done!

Title: Wish upon a star · Author: Werecat · Races/Places: Villains:
Orcs · ID: 194
Reviewer: Thundera Tiger · 2005-09-01 14:50:43 Score: 3
*snort* If wishes were fishes, I suppose that Gollum would be very
happy and that many Orcs would have many Mary Sues. I liked the humor
in this, and I liked the fact that an Orc got his wish granted. You
don't see that very often, and it was a nice play on the
typical "girl in Middle-earth" story.

Title: Full Circle · Author: Werecat · Races/Places: Villains: Orcs ·
ID: 348
Reviewer: Thundera Tiger · 2005-09-01 14:52:10 Score: 3
I like the idea of an orc going out with honor and glory. It's a
strange idea, but it fits this story very well. And I like the idea
that Radagast was the one who discovered the full story behind this
orc. He's an ambiguous character, but his sympathetic nature makes
him a prime candidate for this task. Good choice on the part of
Werecat and good writing.

Title: One Dark Day in Lugbúrz · Author: Starlight · Races/Places:
Villains: Orcs · ID: 521
Reviewer: Thundera Tiger · 2005-09-01 14:52:50 Score: 5
Fascinating character insight into Grishnakh. I'd always wondered how
he came to know so much about the Precious. Giving him a role as one
of Gollum's captors was a stroke of brilliance on Starlight's part,
and of course, I'm ecstatic any time the Mouth of Sauron makes an
appearance in a fic. The interrogation session was very well written.
It's a wonder that the bad guys got anything done, actually; there's
so much mistrust among all of them. Skilled writing and very good
perspective work to fill in the blanks about Grishnakh.

Title: Enmities · Author: AmandaK · Races/Places: Villains: Orcs ·
ID: 561
Reviewer: Thundera Tiger · 2005-09-01 14:53:26 Score: 5
Great alternatve viewpoint! The perspective of a mother on a war is
always a fascinating one, but to incorporate this into the
perspective of an orc with pups was inspired. She's very much an orc,
but she's also very much a mother, and the two different roles mesh
nicely together, which is definitely a tribute to the author. I can't
imagine just how difficult this piece must have been to pull off. I
loved her feelings of regret towards her children, and I liked the
appearance of a man toward the end and the confusion that followed.
Tight perspective, good introspection, and very well written.

Title: Strange Bedfellows · Author: Dwimordene · Races/Places:
Villains: Orcs · ID: 250
Reviewer: Thundera Tiger · 2005-09-01 14:56:55 Score: 6
Rarely do orcs get this much characterization. I loved the way that
Grishnakh's ambitious nature in canon was expanded here in his
conversation with Ugluk, who in turn became something that reminded
me of a soldier out of the Light Brigade: he knew his place was not
to question why but rather to do and die. Their conversation was
surprisingly sophisticated for orcs, but it definitely worked and was
a brilliant way to expand upon the dispute between the orcs as to
which direction they should go. And kudos to Ugluk for recognizing
the value of cannon fodder. He's not entirely unimaginative, as
Grishnakh might suppose, and he's willing to allow for maggots if it
will keep his own skin around longer. Good vignette.

Title: For Love of Creation · Author: Andreth · Races/Places:
Villains · ID: 92
Reviewer: Thundera Tiger · 2005-09-01 15:04:56 Score: 7
Fascinating journey through Sauron's thoughts, and I really like the
idea that above all else, he loved to create. It's a drive that most
of the human race shares, and I enjoyed seeing it teased into
something bigger here. The comparison with Feanor and Morgoth was
also good, particularly the reluctance with which Sauron committed
his power to the Ring. I was very intrigued with the idea that Sauron
still considers accepting a pardon from the Valar. He's a complex
villain, and I can see him thinking about things like that from time
to time. I also loved the way he thought about Aule and the
difference between the way Aule and Morgoth handed out praise. Even
more than that, I loved the fact that Sauron understood why the
praise was empty when it came from Morgoth. In fact, the depth of
Sauron's understanding of his actions and the perspective he gives
them fascinated me throughout. Definitely some intriguing insight.
Thank you!

Title: Bitter as Willow · Author: Nickey · Races/Places: Villains ·
ID: 801
Reviewer: Thundera Tiger · 2005-09-01 15:06:29 Score: 7
Creepy! This is a villain who has the patience and the power to wait
until his foes have forgotten that they wronged him. And I think
that's perhaps the most dangerous villain, because over time, he
becomes just another tree by the wayside. And at that moment, he can
exact whatever vengeance he deems appropriate. I love his focus on
Merry as a Brandybuck, and also on Frodo, whose mother was a
Brandybuck. There's intelligence here that recognizes enemies and is
willing to lull them into a sense of security before the strike. I
think what chills me most is his patience, though. I like the idea
that all the wrongs in Ages past are just a turning of a season away
from Old Man Willow. The last lines are particularly unsettling as he
warns that he can still wait. Brilliant perspective work.

Title: Birthday Present · Author: Lindelea · Races/Places: Hobbits:
Pre-War of the Ring · ID: 462
Reviewer: Bodkin · 2005-09-01 15:10:56 Score: 4
This is just such a lovely story - with so many threads twisting
together. Poor Sam and his father's resistance to literacy, leading
into the 'Well Incident', Bilbo's gift to Rorimac, the presence of
those trying to loot from Bag End, Frodo's grief and his love of
Merry - and finally Bilbo's recognition of the scholar, adventurer
and artist inside Merry. And all from Merry's own mouth - which makes
it doubly touching. Delightful.

Title: Cursed Queen of Angmar · Author: khazar_khum · Races/Places:
Villains: Nazgul · ID: 450
Reviewer: Thundera Tiger · 2005-09-01 15:16:11 Score: 8
This is, without a doubt, the most imaginative, innovative, and
creative thing I've ever seen done with the Witch-king of Angmar. The
entire history of the Nazgul was all but reinvented, and a good
portion of the history of Sauron, Numenor, and the Kingdom of Arnor
was completely restructured, too. But the amazing thing was that it
was restructured in a way that still fit in canon bounds. It's
nothing short of brilliant. I have to admit that the reinterpretation
of history was my favorite part, but I loved the main story, too.
Ariashal was one of the most vibrant and real OCs that I've ever come
across. And while not exactly an OC, Herumor was essentially created
from scratch and was a fantastic character in his own right. I
quickly became a big fan of Adzuphel, too. To tell the truth, the
entire cast won me over, and by the end, I was in complete agreement
with the Witch-king that the elves were haughty, arrogant fools. It
was a very unusual experience for me, and I wish there were more
stories out there like this one. Brilliant writing!

Title: Shadowsong · Author: Ellisande · Races/Places: Villains:
Nazgul · ID: 714
Reviewer: Thundera Tiger · 2005-09-01 15:17:56 Score: 7
This was good. Very, very good. It's difficult to portray a character
like the Lord of the Nazgul because he's so different from us. A
wraith would not have the same perspective, senses, or thoughts that
a man or a woman would have. And yet, through some brilliant imagery
and fantastic metaphor, this story grants us a glimpse of what goes
on inside the mind of a Ring-wraith. It's a very chilling look, and I
think part of what makes it so chilling is that the Witch-king has a
sense of what he's lost and accepts it as a fair exchange. I really
like the fact that this story started off with the Nazgul thinking
that he might have once loved the sunrise. It had an almost wistful
sound to it, but by the time the story concluded, that wistfulness
had vanished and there was nothing but power and night. Great
characterization, and excellent work on handling the thoughts of a
Nazgul. That was no easy task.

Title: The Last Stand · Author: Soledad · Races/Places: Villains:
Orcs · ID: 76
Reviewer: Thundera Tiger · 2005-09-01 15:24:31 Score: 7
The brilliant thing about this fic is that it is so very thoroughly
Orcish. The perspective is tightly written, and the reader sees the
world through...well, dark tinted glasses, I guess. It's hard to
describe, actually, but by the time you're through with the fic,
you're so heavily immersed in the world of the Orcs yourself that you
almost understand them. Which is a frightening, in my opinion. I
loved how this story blended canon with the author's own imagination,
making the world of the Orcs larger and more detailed than it's ever
been. And I loved all the different personalities that the Orcs had.
This isn't just a single-minded, blood-thirsty group of savages who
operate under a hive mind. This is a complex body of warriors,
jostling for position and making life and death choices under adverse
conditions. It's a fascinating journey, and I like to think that a
part of Ugluk somehow survived the Rohirrim's attack. Very good story.

Title: Marigold · Author: Marigold · Races/Places: Hobbits: Drabble ·
ID: 784
Reviewer: Marta · 2005-09-01 17:40:00 Score: 2
These are beautiful. Very ordinary, every-day moments from the live
of a hobbit-lass who is no more than a name in canon -- yet she takes
on a personality all her own. Very much a hobbit, and very much a
Gamgee.

Title: Abrecan · Author: Rhapsody · Races/Places: Rohan: Original
Characters · ID: 433
Reviewer: Isil Elensar · 2005-09-01 17:54:13 Score: 4
I remember when you were writing this story, and all the fun you had
with it. It is light-hearted, very fun to read, and just goes to show
that our dear Lord Aragorn isn't as infallible as he's sometimes made
out to be. I especially like the banter between Thengel, Morwen, and
Eofara as they watch the hapless Thorongil try to master Abrecan.

It was a pleasure to read this little story, and I would definitely
love to see more stories of Rohan coming from you!

Title: One of The Lads · Author: Dreamflower · Races/Places: Cross-
Cultural: Vignette · ID: 980
Reviewer: Leaward · 2005-09-01 17:58:55 Score: 2
This an interesting vignette into Aragorn's assessment of the
hobbits. Nicely written, interest observations by Aragorn to each of
the hobbits' character that still keeps them in-character. Well done,
Dreamflower.

Title: The Black Ribbon · Author: Rhapsody · Races/Places: Hobbits ·
ID: 767
Reviewer: Isil Elensar · 2005-09-01 18:00:42 Score: 3
A hobbity story filled with plenty of family interaction. We get to
see just how the Brandybucks would handle the overflow of the
Brandywine River, and we get all sorts of antics from inside Brandy
Hall. And through the seriousness of the situation, you've kept it
light and rather enjoyable. I know how much you like to write hobbits
(now, *grin*), so keep at it!

Title: A Chance Conversation · Author: Songspinner · Races/Places:
Cross-Cultural: Vignette · ID: 804
Reviewer: Leaward · 2005-09-01 18:05:38 Score: 5
I love finding these stories -- for me a hidden gem since I don't
normally read hobbit stories. A Chance Conversation is a truly lovely
vignette. A conversation between Merry and Landroval and Songspinner
has wonderfully shown the Eagle and kept him in character which must
have been extremely difficult to do. I like how Landroval explains
the traits of a falcon and Merry equates it to "Peregrine."

Wonderfully written, engaging in tone and story. I'm so happy to have
found it. Thanks, Songspinner!

Title: Dance of Terrible Grace · Author: Adina ATL · Races/Places:
Cross-Cultural: Vignette · ID: 57
Reviewer: Leaward · 2005-09-01 18:28:45 Score: 4
This was a really interesting read -- a totally different perspective
on Legolas than anything I've seen before. I like that he has a 'dark
side' like this -- after what he and his people have endured in
Mirkwood, it is in character but so different from those 'tra
lalalala-lalley' type elves that are normally shown. And it also
explains why the shift towards friendship with Gimli -- a shared
enemy often binds two disparate, desperate peoples. Well told, Adina
ATL.

Title: Grasping at Moonbeams Glistening · Author: Werecat ·
Races/Places: Cross-Cultural: Post-War of the Ring · ID: 363
Reviewer: Leaward · 2005-09-01 18:49:27 Score: 6
Werecat's strong writing has made Grasping at Moonbeams Glistening
come alive. You feel Nanwen's exhaustion, her hunger, her despair in
what must have an incredibly difficult place to be -- the Houses of
Healing during the war on the Pelennor fields. To admit your
exhaustion, to lie down, when all around you is pain and suffering
must have been extremely difficult to do and Werecat has given us an
idea of what healers, even today's healers, give for their patients.
And then Nanwen spots a bright patch in the middle, an unusual sight
for Gondor -- an elf. I love how Werecat has woven the title from
Luthien's Lay into her story and it all winds together in a
wonderfully told tale. Well done, Werecat!

Title: Out of Stone · Author: LadyAranel · Races/Places: Cross-
Cultural: Post-War of the Ring · ID: 315
Reviewer: Leaward · 2005-09-01 18:58:19 Score: 4
Ah, what a lovely story of Gloin's acceptance of his son's friendship
with an elf -- and the son of 'that' elf too! Such hidden symbols --
the closed hand/open hand on the chest in greeting are such wonderful
detail that grabbed me. I like that Gloin had to work his way to
accepting Legolas, that it wasn't an automatic acceptance -- old
enmities are hard to forget. Beautifully written, Lady Aranel. I
thoroughly enjoyed reading this. Thank you!

Title: The Mark of a... Warrior? · Author: Ariel · Races/Places:
Cross-Cultural: Humor · ID: 133
Reviewer: Leaward · 2005-09-01 19:07:43 Score: 4
Oh, this one had me laughing out loud, quite literally. It is a story
I can fully appreciate being the only female in a houseful of men.
Yes, Ariel, I think this probably would have happened at some point
on their journey. And I love how the hobbit has the last, um, laugh.
And that the elf has the wisdom, and humour to appreciate it. And the
icing on the cake? Mithrandir's reaction. Hobbits, indeed! A lovely
entry for the Humour section. Very very well done!

Title: Of Elves and Dwarves and Late Night Philosophy · Author:
Thundera Tiger · Races/Places: Cross-Cultural: Humor · ID: 199
Reviewer: Leaward · 2005-09-01 19:17:40 Score: 6
Oh my. Hilarity mixed with deep philosophical discussion! I love how
Aragorn can sense Gimli's about to speak, and how Legolas baits
him. "What makes you think the first warg was a he?" Indeed! I love
that type of logic and I often wished I could argue like that! The
banter between them and how Aragorn keeps track of who is winning
each point is priceless. And the inevitable drawing in of Aragorn.
Yet his arguments are so reasonable -- what else could we expect from
Elessar King. And everytime I think it is getting into this deep
conversation then ... three ... two .. one ... out comes another gem.
Well done, Thundera Tiger.

Title: Breaking the Rules (Harry Potter Exhibition Game) · Author:
Bubbles · Races/Places: Cross-Cultural: Humor · ID: 276
Reviewer: Leaward · 2005-09-01 19:21:14 Score: 4
I confess. I'm a Canuck! Raised with Hockey -- Gretzky, Howe,
Lindros, Hull. So the idea of putting the Lord of the Rings
characters on skates and in a rink was an absolute 'must see.' And
Bubbles has done it with exquisite irreverence. Another excellent
entry in the Humour category -- and the pictures of the characters
were absolutely sublime! You do not even have to be a Lord of the
Rings fan to see the humour in this. Game on!

Title: Captain of Gondor · Author: Sandy K · Races/Places: Cross-
Cultural: Humor · ID: 809
Reviewer: Leaward · 2005-09-01 19:29:13 Score: 5
This is a lovely tale of Boromir becoming acquainted with the hobbits
in Rivendell but I am not sure it belongs in the humour section but
perhaps in the cross-cultural general. Sandy K has kept Boromir as a
lordly man, something too many people are willing to forget -- as the
Steward's son he would have a regal quality that has been reduced by
too many. And the hobbits are all equally in character. I especially
like the scene where Pippin is reciting his genealogy and Boromir
leans back in rather stunned amazement. It's a very well-told story
and I'm pleased to have found it.

Title: Chicken or the Egg? · Author: Gershwhen · Races/Places: Cross-
Cultural: Humor · ID: 1220
Reviewer: Leaward · 2005-09-01 19:33:56 Score: 4
Definitely from the frying pan into the fire is where he's landed!
Legolas having to explain exactly what 'begetting' is to Pippin is
priceless and had me laughing out loud -- my husband checked to make
sure I was all right! It's not overplayed, just subtly implied and it
works the better for it. This is a lovely glimpse into what would
have definitely been an uncomfortable conversation for Pippin, poor
thing. Very well told, Gershwhen.

Title: Artist's Appreciation · Author: sulriel · Genres: Romance:
Incomplete · ID: 146
Reviewer: Leaward · 2005-09-01 20:48:58 Score: 6
A young female elf distracted and entranced by a certain silver
haired Elven lord. Hmm, has all the markings of a Mary Sue yet this
story is avoiding the usual trappings. Lhende is an interesting elf
in that she actually hits her head -- is clumsy. How unusual, and
interesting. The description of the 'dance' Celeborn does as he
practices reminds me very much of the kata's I used to do in karate --
very rhythmic and dancelike -- until you speed them up and unleash
the ferocity. Just the right amount of description to get us
interested, good strong verbs. Interesting characters. So tell me ...
what comes next? and when?

Considering this started as a challenge from Marnie, you simply MUST
finish this story. Do not leave us hanging, Sulriel. And a little
steamy sex wouldn't hurt ;)

Title: One Day in Ithilien · Author: jen_loves_elves · Books/Time:
Post-Ring War · ID: 744
Reviewer: Marta · 2005-09-01 20:55:43 Score: 1
This is a cute interlude about daily life in Ithilien. Poor Faramir,
indeed!

Title: Spoons · Author: LKK · Races/Places: Hobbits: Drabble · ID: 644
Reviewer: Marta · 2005-09-01 21:05:13 Score: 3
Methinks there's shades of Gollum here! "That candle stick should
have been mine... it OUGHT to be mine, it is mine" and so on. Very
perceptive, and a nice way to make more of Lobelia than a common
thief (which is what I thought when I first read "A Long-Expected
Party"). This was a really enjoyable drabble.

Title: Seedlings · Author: Beethoven's 7th · Genres: Humor: Hobbits ·
ID: 905
Reviewer: Leaward · 2005-09-01 21:11:07 Score: 3
Lovely patient Sam. Having to watch his master digging up his prized
daffodils -- chunked up piece going flying, indeed. I'm afraid I am
more of a Frodo type gardener than Sam -- who is welcome to plant
daffodils, or snapdragons, in my garden anyday. Nicely told, good
active language, and a nice 'hobbity' style to it. Well done,
Beethoven's 7th.

Title: The Arial Object · Author: Beethoven's 7th · Races/Places:
Hobbits: Children · ID: 972
Reviewer: Leaward · 2005-09-01 21:13:38 Score: 3
A very good description of movement, Beethoven's 7th, something I
often struggle with. I could not, for the life of me, figure out what
it was until the last paragraph and then it was one of those smack-
yourself-in-the-forehead moments. The 'Aha! So that's what it was'
statements followed. Nicely done.

Title: Bedazzled · Author: Beethoven's 7th · Races/Places: Hobbits:
Drabble · ID: 976
Reviewer: Leaward · 2005-09-01 21:15:17 Score: 2
This is a lovely drabble filled with poetry-like prose. Very nicely
done both in describing the children and the fireworks. Well done,
Beethoven's 7th.

Title: Another Name · Author: Elana · Races/Places: Men: Drabble ·
ID: 296
Reviewer: Leaward · 2005-09-01 21:23:09 Score: 2
Strider in Bree ... and his view of things. I like this, it keeps
that mysterious air that he and the other Rangers had set up.
Longshanks for long leagues. But that's neither east nor west as
folks say. ;) A lovely drabble, thanks, Elana.

Title: A Father's Choice · Author: Elana · Races/Places: Gondor:
Drabble · ID: 298
Reviewer: Leaward · 2005-09-01 21:24:58 Score: 3
Bergil's desire to stay in Minas Tirith -- that is something I had
not really pondered much. I wonder if he asked or he was told. And
from the father's point of view how hard it must have been to let/see
him stay, thinking they faced their doom. Nicely done!

Title: The Sundering Seas · Author: Elana · Races/Places: Elves:
Drabble · ID: 303
Reviewer: Leaward · 2005-09-01 22:22:01 Score: 2
Absolutely delightful. A lovely look at Elrond knowing he has to let
Celebrian go. At least there is hope, he will get to see her again.

Title: Ambush in Ithilien · Author: Elena Tiriel · Genres: Drama
(includes Angst): Gondor Drabble · ID: 204
Reviewer: Leaward · 2005-09-01 22:26:55 Score: 3
Under all the weight of the LOTR we forget that battles had been
fought for generations on those lands.It was interesting to realize
that this took place hundreds of years before. Oh, and I found the
author's note as interesting as the drabble! I love research like
that!

Title: Silver and Gold · Author: Elena Tiriel · Genres: Romance:
Drabble · ID: 196
Reviewer: Leaward · 2005-09-01 22:30:14 Score: 3
Akk, *clutches heart* Lovely, Elena! Both for Galadriel's description
of what Celeborn was to everyone else compared to how he could be
with her, and Celeborn's description of seeing Galadriel as glacial
magnificence of Taniquetil where he saw the fires of Orodruin. What a
magnificence insight. Beautifully done.

Title: Earth and Sky · Author: Elena Tiriel · Races/Places: Cross-
Cultural: Drabble · ID: 201
Reviewer: Leaward · 2005-09-01 22:33:17 Score: 3
Here's one of those gems that I mentioned before. I love that you can
take a single line and write a scene around it. Wonderfully done --
and it shows the change between Legolas and Gimli and how the
acceptance of a former enemy became a friend. Lovely, Elena Tiriel!

Title: Kingly Gifts · Author: Dreamflower · Books/Time: Post-Ring
War: Friendship · ID: 831
Reviewer: Leaward · 2005-09-01 22:40:18 Score: 2
I really like this story of how Merry and Pippin are rewarded by
Eomer and Aragorn. It fills in those gaps left by the Professor. A
thoroughly enjoyable and well-told tale. Thanks, Dreamflower,
for 'painting on spot left bare.'

Title: The Stubborness of Tooks · Author: Dreamflower · Genres:
Humor: Hobbits · ID: 918
Reviewer: Leaward · 2005-09-01 22:48:57 Score: 3
Pink rabbits, eh? Hmm, that sounds an awful lot like pink elephants
although in the Thain's defence he was ill, not drunk. It must be
hard to go against someone who is used to power but I think that we
know where the power in that family is despite what he thinks. Lovely
story, Dreamflower.

Title: In Which Frodo Makes Tea · Author: MysteriousWays ·
Books/Time: The Lord of The Rings: The Shire · ID: 821
Reviewer: Leaward · 2005-09-01 22:58:49 Score: 5
What a wonderfully introspective look from Frodo's point of view. The
last time I pump the water, the last time I make the tea. From the
number of times I have moved, I know I have had similar thoughts but
I wonder just how deeply Frodo thought them. While he knew he
wouldn't be returning to Bag End, did he wonder at that stage if he
would ever return to the Shire itself? Did he realize just how long
his journey would be? A lovely look into this moment, Mysterious
Ways. Well told, and an enjoyable read.

Title: The Shadow of an Image · Author: Finch · Genres: Crossovers ·
ID: 732
Reviewer: Dwimordene · 2005-09-01 23:42:24 Score: 5
Great way of drawing all these personalities together, through the
Atlantis myth that is so central to Tolkien's mythology. Although I
am much more the Platonist than the Aristotelian, I nevertheless
loved the way Maglor characterizes the two, Plato the transcendent
desirer, Aristotle the curious lover of the world. Put so, it makes
sense that Maglor would be attracted and find a kindred soul in
Aristotle, perhaps in a sense a true inheritor. Wonderful use of
elven song and connection back to Orpheus, too, and all around, just
an interesting, unusual piece of fiction.

Title: The Council of Elrond in the Style of Hiawatha · Author:
Theresa Green · Genres: Crossovers: Poetry · ID: 559
Reviewer: Dwimordene · 2005-09-01 23:43:24 Score: 3
Oi, I'm not much with poetry, and I only know Hiawatha from the old
Disney cartoon. This was... in some sense indescribable, but told
with Theresa Green's usual eye for the sublimely ridiculous. Glóin's
comments were priceless. More a pastiche or parody than a crossover,
though.

Title: The One and True Dark Lord · Author: Werecat · Genres:
Crossovers · ID: 358
Reviewer: Dwimordene · 2005-09-01 23:44:01 Score: 3
An interesting meeting of dark minds, although really, Voldemort is
way out of his league, which I suppose is part of the amusement of
this story. It's very nearly unsporting to get them in a cage match:
hands down, Morgoth would win. I'd not want to be Voldemort the next
time he encountered Melkor.

Title: Dusk-singer · Author: illyria-pffyffin · Books/Time: Gap-
Filler · ID: 702
Reviewer: Cuthalion · 2005-09-02 05:24:35 Score: 6
Every time I read one of her amazing tales, I'm again stunned and
awed by the skill of a non-native speaker to use a foreign language.
This author is an enormously gifted storyteller, and "Dusk-Singer" is
no exception. Frodo's feelings as he stumbles along the way to
Rivendell after being attacked by the Nazgûl, his spirit wandering
off into the spooky darkness of another world, is masterfully told,
full of pain, deep love for the character and understanding. And the
end, when Glorfindel's appearance seems to promise salvation, is
wondrously beautiful and moves to tears. This is fanfiction as it
should be - exploring the untold and keeping deepest respect for the
original source. Brava!

Title: Memory of Ents · Author: Rabidsamfan · Books/Time: Post-Ring
War: Friendship · ID: 800
Reviewer: Cuthalion · 2005-09-02 05:34:06 Score: 4
This little story is an interesting view on the restoration of the
Shire. Pippin, Merry and Sam are collecting saplings to replace all
the lost trees, and the two cousins tell Sam about their meeting with
the Ents.Sensitively told, with gentle humor and more than a hint of
more serious feelings underneath the surface, "Memory of Ents" is a
beautiful, excellent gap-filler, worth every new read.

Title: The Errand Lad · Author: Rabidsamfan · Books/Time: The Lord of
The Rings: Incomplete · ID: 884
Reviewer: Cuthalion · 2005-09-02 05:38:57 Score: 4
This is one of the rare handful of tales I'm eagerly waiting for to
be finished. Bergil, son of Beregond, is on duty to serve the King's
guests, the hobbits. His very "boyish" view of things, mixed with a
surprising, simple wisdom, are perfectly caught and beautifully told,
and the encounters with the hobbits are a pure delight to read,
especially his rapidly growing friendship with Sam. One of
rabidsamfan's best longer pieces, and may it be finished - SOON!

Title: In Bree · Author: Rabidsamfan · Books/Time: Gap-Filler:
Drabble · ID: 1345
Reviewer: Cuthalion · 2005-09-02 05:40:51 Score: 2
Ah - simply beautiful! Frodo's deep sense of responsibilty is
enormously touching, and his love for his cousins is very palpable.
Wonderful little piece from the "Mistress of Drabbles"!

Title: Packing for Crickhollow · Author: Rabidsamfan · Genres: Drama
(includes Angst): Drabble · ID: 1344
Reviewer: Cuthalion · 2005-09-02 05:45:31 Score: 3
Asa person with a fierce love for books I can totally understand
Frodo's feelings here. It must have been incredibly bitter to leave
his "treasures" behind, and the insecurity and dawning fear of the
master of Bag End are masterfully caught and presented.

Title: Nine Riders · Author: Rabidsamfan · Races/Places: Villains:
Drabble · ID: 791
Reviewer: Cuthalion · 2005-09-02 05:55:03 Score: 6
The ability of the author to give each of the Ring Wraith in "his"
own drabble a strong personality is absolutely stunning. F.E. we have
a king who originally only sought for healing, we have a dedicated
elf-killer, a fell-beast-pilot (no, really!), a scholar, a sailor and
a horse-tamer, and the last drabble gives us a surprising (and rather
hilarious) insight in the thoughts of the Witch King facing Éowyn in
his last fight:

"But as she stands before me, holding her sword as high as if the
terror of my presence does not touch her, I must consider. Was there
an adjective in that prophecy or not? Was it the noun that mattered?
Capital M, or small?"

Ahhh... 'twas the spelling that led to his doom! *snickers*. But they
are all wonderful, another proof of the author's well-known skills.



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