Yahoo Forum Archive

Title: Chains · Author: ldhenson · Genres: Movie-verse: Vignette · ID: 994
Reviewer: Marta · 2005-09-09 01:21:45
This is a great story, using the device of the chain for Frodo's ring and
using it to give a penetrating look into Boromir's mind. His fears and hopes
seemed very "on" for him.
-----------------------------------
Title: Childhood Ends · Author: Marnie · Races/Places: Cross-Cultural:
Post-War of the Ring · ID: 474
Reviewer: Marta · 2005-09-09 01:22:32
Marnie is best known of course for writing Elves, but here she shows that
she is also perfectly up to the challenge of writing the other half of the
mortality problem. What would Gondor's place as the "elf-friends" have
medant in a time where the Elves are dying in a sense? She looks at this and
at the same time points out something I had never considered: nothing says
that Isildur's heirs stopped being raised in Rivendell. People who like
relations between elves and mortals, and who like 9interesting extrapolation
on bits and bobs of canon, will enjoy this.
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Title: Children of Aulë, Children of Men · Author: Gwynnyd · Races/Places:
Cross-Cultural: Drabble · ID: 1301
Reviewer: Marta · 2005-09-09 01:23:36
Good job capturing a potential first meeting between dwarves and
Numenoreans. You showed how the excitement of youth can overcome bias quite
well.

-----------------------------------
Title: Civitas Mundi · Author: Dwimordene · Genres: Drama (includes Angst):
Drabble · ID: 56
Reviewer: Marta · 2005-09-09 01:24:45
I think what I really like about this set of drabbles is how they breathe
new life into old relationships. They seem to be ones that canon gives us a
lot of background for how the two should have related, and that fanfic
writers (at least myself) love to speculate about. but Dwim has twisted
those relationships not completely beyond relationship, but just the right
amount to make me look at them anew. Add to this the rich details... I'm
amazed it's only 500 words, quite frankly. Very well done, Dwim.


-----------------------------------
Title: Comes the Dawn · Author: Ithilwen · Books/Time: The Silmarillion:
Feanor and Sons · ID: 418
Reviewer: Marta · 2005-09-09 01:25:10
Fascinating speculation on the conditions under which Maedhros might have
finally been released from Mandos -- and how he would reconcile himself wiht
his brother.


-----------------------------------
Title: Cool Waters · Author: DragonLady7 · Races/Places: Elves: First Age ·
ID: 692
Reviewer: Marta · 2005-09-09 01:25:54
This piece does a first-rate job at looking at twhat might have been
Glorfindel's thoughts during the siege of Gondolin. The confusion and the
terror of it all (and the odd bit of hope that surged up from time to time)
was especially well done.


-----------------------------------
Title: Cruel Caradhras · Author: Tanaqui · Races/Places: Cross-Cultural:
Drabble · ID: 1365
Reviewer: Marta · 2005-09-09 01:26:27
First things first - thank you for giving Legolas his moment of insecurity.
Sort of like post-Strider!Aragorn, Legolas is often portrayed as seeming to
know everything's going to come out alright. But here he seems to not be so
sure the Fellowship will survive. Which brings me to the second thing I
really liked. I'm sure that the Sindarin/Sylvan culture of Mirkwood and even
the flavor of the trees themselves is a different sort of beauty than what
he might have found in Valinor, but I really think it is the fierce flame he
sees in mortals that he likes so much. (It's eventually Aragorn's death that
sets him free to sail West, after all.) And nice job on showing the type fo
cold that did affect him -- that was an effective parallel. All in all a
very nice drabble.


-----------------------------------
Title: Seasong · Author: Azalais · Books/Time: Post-Ring War: General
Drabble · ID: 149
Reviewer: Thundera Tiger · 2005-09-09 01:56:48
Ah, Gimli, you old rascal. But I love the deeper understanding behind the
dwarf's prodding. He realizes that he will not always be around and that
Legolas is going to need someone once he's gone. Someone that won't leave
him the way everyone else has. Kudos for an insightful dwarf, and kudos to
Legolas, also, for taking the hint and going with it.
-----------------------------------
Title: For Everything There Is A Season · Author: Isabeau of Greenlea ·
Books/Time: Post-Ring War: General Drabble · ID: 31
Reviewer: Thundera Tiger · 2005-09-09 01:57:36
Speaking as one myself, I don't think there's anything quite as powerful as
a sister who decides that her brothers are in need of suitable matches. It
seems as though the brothers sense this, too. I love the appeal to their
father and the looks of horror.
-----------------------------------
Title: Blossoms · Author: ErinRua · Books/Time: Post-Ring War: General
Drabble · ID: 287
Reviewer: Thundera Tiger · 2005-09-09 01:58:07
I love the sense of renewal that I get from this drabble. It feels as though
things are building, and the idea of Aragorn's line continuing fits
perfectly with Legolas's effort in the gardens. It's definitely a season of
change, and it all flows together very well in this drabble. Great writing.
-----------------------------------
Title: Aragorn Himself Waits for a Sign · Author: Gwynnyd · Books/Time:
Post-Ring War: General Drabble · ID: 392
Reviewer: Thundera Tiger · 2005-09-09 01:58:46
Nice gapfiller. I like the sense of waiting that we get, and I think it very
appropriate that even thought the palantir is just a tool, Aragorn still
can't receive good tidings from something that was once used for great evil.
At least, not the tidings that he's looking for. But the fact that all is
well in Gondor should tell him something...
-----------------------------------
Title: Lesson Learned: Spring Flood, 1433 · Author: Dreamflower ·
Books/Time: Post-Ring War: General Drabble · ID: 1112
Reviewer: Thundera Tiger · 2005-09-09 01:59:51
Merry proves himself to be a very wise hobbit indeed. I like the way he's
progressed over the years, from learning the need for a plan to learning
that plans won't always work to learning that there are things for which you
can't plan at all. I think one of the biggest steps you can take on the road
to wisdom is to realize just how very little you actually know, and if
anyone were to figure that out, it would be Merry.
-----------------------------------
Title: A Long Awaited Party · Author: Gwynnyd · Books/Time: Post-Ring War:
General Drabble · ID: 1298
Reviewer: Thundera Tiger · 2005-09-09 02:00:20
I really love the idea that the hobbits would more or less repeat Bilbo's
111 birthday in honor of Aragorn's 111 birthday. With any luck, nobody will
be disappearing this time around. Though with these hobbits, I suppose
anything is possible.
-----------------------------------
Title: Remembrance · Author: Ainaechoiriel · Books/Time: Post-Ring War:
Gondor Drabble · ID: 108
Reviewer: Thundera Tiger · 2005-09-09 02:02:41
I've often thought about Legolas remembering after everyone else is gone.
The last death (Gimli's) would be particularly hard on him. I liked the
phrase that remembrance is his destiny. It's an interesting phrase and seems
to imply that he will live more in the past than in the present or the
future. Definitely a sobering thought. Good emotional work.
-----------------------------------
Title: Afterthoughts · Author: Dwimordene · Books/Time: Post-Ring War:
Gondor Drabble · ID: 230
Reviewer: Thundera Tiger · 2005-09-09 02:03:04
Oops. Well, better late than never, I suppose. But a "thank you" is in order
for the characterization of Faramir, who almost never fails to see the
bigger picture. And in that, I guess that Boromir WAS fortunate. He died
honorably, and his last words were heard. That says something, even if
Elrond was in possession of his charm at the time.
-----------------------------------
Title: Foreign Customs · Author: Elvenesse · Books/Time: Post-Ring War:
Gondor Drabble · ID: 329
Reviewer: Thundera Tiger · 2005-09-09 02:04:11
I like the idea that birth is something that Arwen and Aragorn are going to
do together. At least, as together as it can be done given the fact that
Arwen will probably do most of the work. But their decision is almost
certainly a foreign concept to the midwives, and I hand out kudos to Aragorn
for defying them. Go Ranger.
-----------------------------------
Title: A New Age · Author: Tanaqui · Books/Time: Post-Ring War: Gondor
Drabble · ID: 1387
Reviewer: Thundera Tiger · 2005-09-09 02:05:00
Time must seem liked such a strange thing to Eldarion. He's inherited a fair
amount of elven blood, but even man's world moves slowly for him because his
parents are so long-lived. Elboron's appointment seems to throw some of it
into perspective, and I like Eldarion's quiet realization that things are
moving forward and that he will be part of that movement. Very light
introspection, but very fitting.
-----------------------------------
Title: Dandelion Clocks · Author: Alawa · Books/Time: Post-Ring War: Gondor
Drabble · ID: 17
Reviewer: Thundera Tiger · 2005-09-09 02:05:29
Beautiful and moving. I love the imagery of the dandelion clocks and the
flowers. It almost read like a poem in places. But the final paragraph, as
Arwen watches the stem return to the ground through a veil, was particularly
moving. It's like she's seeing the closing moments of a cycle that will
repeat itself eventually. I just hope she can understand that. Good drabble.
-----------------------------------
Title: As Though to Breathe Were Life · Author: mir_noldoris · Books/Time:
Post-Ring War: Gondor Drabble · ID: 257
Reviewer: Thundera Tiger · 2005-09-09 02:05:52
I think drabbles lend themselves to the world of thoughts. Their length
demands that things be shorter than usual, and thoughts tend to go this way.
This particular drabble is a brilliant example of that, and I like the
almost rambling nature of Aragorn's musings. There is a semblence of order,
as one might expect from this particular king, but there is also a somewhat
wandering air. I really liked that.
-----------------------------------
Title: Fireside Reflections · Author: Gwynnyd · Books/Time: Post-Ring War:
Gondor Drabble · ID: 400
Reviewer: Thundera Tiger · 2005-09-09 02:06:24
I'm often fascinated by the characters of Faramir and Eomer and how very
different they are. This is a great little piece that examines some of those
differences. Eomer sees war and the glory and the company of other soldiers,
while Faramir sees the greenery that war protects and the prosperity that
comes with peace. Very different perspectives, and both are very fixed in
their views, as this drabble shows. Great job.
-----------------------------------
Title: A Refuge for the Weary · Author: Tanaqui · Books/Time: Post-Ring War:
Gondor Drabble · ID: 547
Reviewer: Thundera Tiger · 2005-09-09 02:06:49
I hadn't really thought of how Elros might provide a connection between
Faramir and Elrond. Well, aside from the ties to Numenorean blood. But the
shared grief of losing a brother in a distant land and then hearing about it
later is a fascinating tie between the two, and I suspect that Elrond will
provide a much needed refuge for Faramir's weary heart. I would dearly love
to hear the discussion that might result from this query, but perhaps it's
best left to the imagination.
-----------------------------------
Title: Returning from a Wedding · Author: Tanaqui · Books/Time: Post-Ring
War: Gondor Drabble · ID: 1379
Reviewer: Thundera Tiger · 2005-09-09 02:07:12
The empty chairs left behind are among the hardest things to deal with when
a family member leaves home, and I like the way Imrahil focuses on that in
this drabble. I also like the fact that it is a child who restores the mood,
and Imrahil's solution is both touching and practical. Great writing about
family, and great mood work in such a short piece.
-----------------------------------
Title: Good Stone · Author: ErinRua · Books/Time: Post-Ring War: Gondor
Drabble · ID: 721
Reviewer: Thundera Tiger · 2005-09-09 02:07:32
I love the light-hearted feel of this drabble. It's in a time of peace and
prosperity, and that's definitely reflected in the writing, particularly in
the banter between Legolas and Gimli. I also like the idea of the two
cooperating to augment both the stone and the gardens. It's good to see them
working together, because I think that's what makes Minas Tirith (and
Gondor) great.
-----------------------------------
Title: Mother and Son · Author: Tanaqui · Books/Time: Post-Ring War: General
Drabble · ID: 1381
Reviewer: Thundera Tiger · 2005-09-09 02:08:59
Reunions are always difficult to paint, and the brevity of a drabble makes
it even more difficult. But I think Tanaqui did a great job with this one by
focusing on Elrond and his role while leaving unstated most of the reunion
itself. The simple line from Elrond about not misremembering the years is
enough and points our imaginations in the right direction. Well written.
-----------------------------------
Title: Tales of Old Wives · Author: Lindelea · Books/Time: Post-Ring War:
General Drabble · ID: 927
Reviewer: Thundera Tiger · 2005-09-09 02:09:29
These drabbles are so delicately written. I love the little clues that let
us know which hobbit each drabble is talking about. And I like the hint that
all three of them still remember darkness and that all three of them are
changed because of it. They're still hobbits and they have recovered, but
they haven't forgotten, even after all these years. Great imagery and great
desscriptive work. Very touching.
-----------------------------------
Title: The Greater Gift · Author: Tanaqui · Books/Time: Post-Ring War:
General Drabble · ID: 540
Reviewer: Thundera Tiger · 2005-09-09 02:10:01
So often in Tolkien's work are good deeds rewarded with betrayal, and
because of this, it's very refreshing to see Galadriel finding a reward in
her refusal of the Ring. After overcoming the ambition that led her to
Middle-earth in the first place, I think it's appropriate that something
good come of it. And even more appropriate that she share it with the hobbit
who tempted her.
-----------------------------------
Title: Replacements · Author: Meril · Books/Time: Post-Ring War: General
Drabble · ID: 486
Reviewer: Thundera Tiger · 2005-09-09 02:10:21
I love first meetings, and I really like this meeting between Arwen and
Lothiriel. The depth of understanding that Lothiriel has and her skills in
observation are remarkable, and I suspect she'll be a welcome friend to
Arwen. It's interesting that Lothiriel would admire what Arwen has forsaken
considering that she'll have to do some forsaking of her own in the near
future, too.
-----------------------------------
Title: In Memoriam · Author: Marta · Books/Time: Post-Ring War: Ithilien
Drabble · ID: 949
Reviewer: Thundera Tiger · 2005-09-09 02:11:49
Boromir is in desperate need of good press, so my hat goes off to Marta for
this beautiful tribute. Gondor, and Minas Tirith in particular, were such a
large part of Boromir's makeup. It's very fitting to tie their success to
his. Both teetered on the brink, but neither truly fell, and in the end,
both were redeemed. Great memorial drabble.
-----------------------------------
Title: New Home · Author: Tanaqui · Books/Time: Post-Ring War: Ithilien
Drabble · ID: 20
Reviewer: Thundera Tiger · 2005-09-09 02:12:22
What I like most about this drabble is that nothing earth-shattering or
dramatic happens, but the meaning is deep and profound. Sometimes it's the
little things that illustrate the big things, and the idea that Bergil can
now go off to look at a bird's nest instead of running errands for healers
who are trying to save dying soldiers is evidence of enormous change. But
it's handled simply and quietly here, and I think that's the way it should
be.
-----------------------------------
Title: Reunion · Author: Vistula the Dunadan · Books/Time: Post-Ring War:
Ithilien Drabble · ID: 634
Reviewer: Thundera Tiger · 2005-09-09 02:12:42
How very like a hobbit to dance around even diplomatic references to an
unpleasant past. They're so good about moving on and taking the next step,
and kudos to Faramir for being able to follow Sam's lead and do the same.
-----------------------------------
Title: Garden · Author: Cheryl · Books/Time: Post-Ring War: Ithilien Drabble
· ID: 220
Reviewer: Thundera Tiger · 2005-09-09 02:13:17
There's something very quiet, almost reverent, about this drabble, and I
like that feel. Legolas's devotion to his work is nice to see, and here
again, I like the very quiet way his connection to plants is handled. It's
not overplayed at all but rather done very simply, and Faramir's simple
thanks speaks volumes.
-----------------------------------
Title: The Return · Author: Elana · Books/Time: Post-Ring War: Ithilien
Drabble · ID: 295
Reviewer: Thundera Tiger · 2005-09-09 02:13:38
I like the quick moment of flashback for Faramir. The darkness and
uncertainty of the times he remembers serves as a good contrast for the joy
he feels in sharing this place with Eowyn.
-----------------------------------
Title: Ithilien, Part II · Author: Forodwaith · Books/Time: Post-Ring War:
Ithilien Drabble · ID: 380
Reviewer: Thundera Tiger · 2005-09-09 02:14:33
I like the idea of Arwen being the one to broach the idea of elves in
Ithilien to Faramir. I think the assumption is that Aragorn was the one to
grant them that right, but this feels a bit more natural. Arwen would
probably appreciate having some of her kin nearby during her struggle to
adjust to a radically different life. I liked Arwen's references to Hollin,
too. They carried an elven feeling of timelessness.
-----------------------------------
Title: Garden Secrets · Author: Gwynnyd · Books/Time: Post-Ring War:
Ithilien Drabble · ID: 573
Reviewer: Thundera Tiger · 2005-09-09 02:15:02
I knew Eowyn had too much spunk in her to leave it entirely behind. I really
like the things this drabble implies, such as the fact that Faramir still
goes stalking around Ithilien and the fact that Eowyn still keeps her sword
skills honed. It says quite a bit about them both and how deeply entrenched
they became in their habits during the War of the Ring.
-----------------------------------
Title: Seeing · Author: Tanaqui · Books/Time: Post-Ring War: Gondor Drabble
· ID: 1356
Reviewer: Thundera Tiger · 2005-09-09 02:17:46
Sometimes, the present is the best place to be. I loved this drabble, and I
loved the wisdom that Imrahil displays. It's not a crime to dream the little
dreams. I often feel that they're more important than the big dreams, and if
Imrahil is content, I count that as a life well lived. I like the way he
compares his own visions to that of his family, which he considers both a
curse and a blessing. Good play with both extremes and contrasts. I really
enjoyed it.
-----------------------------------
Title: Links · Author: Forodwaith · Books/Time: Post-Ring War: General
Drabble · ID: 23
Reviewer: Thundera Tiger · 2005-09-09 02:36:06
Very touching little drabble. There's a great feeling of resolution and
closure to it. I love the idea that Frodo was wise enough to forgive Boromir
and also to recognize that he and Boromir were both overcome by the same
thing. After all, who would know better than Frodo what Boromir had gone
through? And I get the sense that even though Frodo is relinquishing the
chain, he's still feeling bound by it. The bittersweetness is a nice touch
and very much in keeping with the general feel of Tolkien's world. Nothing
is every truly without price. Good insight.
-----------------------------------
Title: Just A Bit Of Chop · Author: Isabeau of Greenlea · Books/Time:
Post-Ring War: General Drabble · ID: 30
Reviewer: Thundera Tiger · 2005-09-09 02:44:02
Absolutely brilliant! And hilarious, too. I sensed where this was going
before it got there, but when Eomer lost his lunch over the side of the
boat, it still had me in stitches. And I loved how casual Imrahil's sons
were about the whole thing. Poor Eomer. He's definitely in over his head
here, and that might become a literal problem if he's not careful. I sense
that Elphir, Erchirion, and Amrothos would not be above cooling off their
future in-law. Who knew Lothiriel had such protective brothers? Excellent
drabble, and wonderful comedic timing.
-----------------------------------
Title: Shield and Standard · Author: Dwimordene · Books/Time: Post-Ring War:
Gondor Drabble · ID: 695
Reviewer: Thundera Tiger · 2005-09-09 02:47:53
I wonder if Aragorn underestimated these two women. Eowyn, in particular,
underwent a fairly dramatic change by the time Arwen showed up. Still, it
makes for some brilliant imagery in this drabble. I love the idea of turning
one into Shield and the other into Standard. I hope I'm right in assuming
that Eowyn is the former and Arwen the latter. The characteristics seem to
match up best that way. I like the fact that both take the intiative in
speaking. I can see that in them, and it makes me laugh. They're very
different, but they also share a lot of similarities.
-----------------------------------
Title: The Voice of Experience · Author: Ijemanja · Books/Time: Post-Ring
War: Ithilien Drabble · ID: 415
Reviewer: Thundera Tiger · 2005-09-09 02:54:56
I was very impressed by this drabble. First of all, I love the way Faramir
was characterized, which is remarkable as he doesn't even appear in the
drabble. But leaving this decision up to Eowyn speaks volumes of his wisdom.
And as for Eowyn herself, this is definitely the voice of experience
talking. She's grown and she's gained some intersting insight. I don't think
I've ever seen a drabble or story in which she forbids her daughter to learn
the sword. I don't know that it's entirely wise, but I keep going back to
Eowyn's fear of confinement, which outweighed her fear of death. And though
the sword might save her daughter (Ithilien is on the eastern border, after
all) I wonder if Eowyn sees this as a better fate than growing up having the
skills to wage war but always being held back. Fascinating take on the
situation.
-----------------------------------
Title: Farewell · Author: Elana · Books/Time: Post-Ring War: Vignette · ID:
302
Reviewer: Thundera Tiger · 2005-09-09 03:06:02
Given his heritage, I always felt there was probably more keeping Legolas in
Middle-earth than just his mortal friends. This is a good exploration of
that, and I love the moment of choice, when he hears both the trees and the
Sea. Leave it to Gimli to provide the final impetus for departare. Great
imagery, and the emotions were drawn out well.
-----------------------------------
Title: Kingly Gifts · Author: Dreamflower · Books/Time: Post-Ring War:
Friendship · ID: 831
Reviewer: Thundera Tiger · 2005-09-09 03:06:36
I hadn't given much thought to how Pippin and Merry were knighted. Or to
what preparation was arranged for the song sung later. But this story takes
care of my shortcomings nicely, including not only the activities in
Ithilien but also those back in Minas Tirith. I love the level of detail
that was achieved and how these "kingly gifts" ended up involving everyone
and everything.
-----------------------------------
Title: Dawn · Author: Acacea · Books/Time: Post-Ring War: Gondor · ID: 251
Reviewer: Thundera Tiger · 2005-09-09 03:08:54
This is definitely one of the better ways to handle a Faramir introspection
piece. I love the way his retreat across the Pelennor is contrasted to the
battle he’s currently fighting and how Eowyn can make such a difference. Her
presence highlights just how dark his world became during the War of the
Ring, and his frame of mind has changed so much it’s almost as though he’s a
different person. The despair in his heart the first time around was
painful, and I love the section on his guilt and how his mind insisted there
must be sins because there was no other explanation for his father’s
actions. Wonderful story that completely and utterly avoids the trap of
turning into a Faramir pity wallow. The contrasts and the hope at the end
make all the difference.
-----------------------------------
Title: Legacy · Author: Acacea · Books/Time: Post-Ring War: Gondor · ID: 282
Reviewer: Thundera Tiger · 2005-09-09 03:10:26
Out of all the characters in LotR, Faramir seems to wander down memory lane
most often. And he always seems to visit the same memories. Or the same
types of memories. But thankfully, this story is different. It’s still
Faramir and it’s on the subject of Boromir, Denethor, and the blue cloak --
which is familiar ground -- yet this story has an original feel to it.
Perhaps it’s Boromir’s association with the blue cloak and the inclusion of
Imrahil. Perhaps it’s the way this cloak is given new meaning and depth
through the course of the tale. Perhaps it’s a combination of several
elements, but however it was done, this story feels fresh and new. I love
the characterization of Faramir, and I love the idea that Boromir saved the
cloak and kept it a secret from even his brother, only asking for help when
there was no other option. Very well written story, and thank you for
breathing life into a tale that is sometimes over-told.
-----------------------------------
Title: The Road to Edoras · Author: Dreamflower · Books/Time: Post-Ring War:
Incomplete · ID: 872
Reviewer: Thundera Tiger · 2005-09-09 03:12:02
This story boasts a very thorough and a very complete job on
characterization. You can see the shifts and changes in personalities and
also in the way that those personalities interact. The dynamic between
hobbits, men, elf, and dwarf is not set but rather something that adapts to
the needs of their environment and also to the fact that they're getting to
know each other better. And that's the mark of a good characterizer, which
is essential in this story as so much of it is driven by the characters.
Great OCs who are able to stand as equals with the canon characters.
-----------------------------------
Title: Stealth and Grace · Author: Anastasia · Books/Time: Post-Ring War:
Gondor · ID: 802
Reviewer: Thundera Tiger · 2005-09-09 03:13:25
Elven trickery, indeed! I'd also call it that, no matter what Legolas
claims. Merry's certainly right, but kudos to him for giving in and helping
anyway. I can see dancing as being something that would interesting a hobbit
like Pippin, and I can see him wanting to do it both for himself and to gain
the respect of others. Fun story that made me smile a lot!
-----------------------------------
Title: Neither Have I Wings To Fly · Author: Dreamflower · Books/Time:
Post-Ring War: Friendship · ID: 985
Reviewer: Thundera Tiger · 2005-09-09 03:14:31
This was a brilliant use of a symbol that is very bittersweet in Tolkien's
world. The Sea can be hope and home, but it can also be heartache and
yearning. It looks as though Merry gets to experience the latter. Great
tie-in with canon, and I like the addition of Frodo's unease with the
Brandywine. That was a great concept and I wonder why it hasn't been used
more often in fanfiction. It feels so natural and fits so nicely into canon,
but rarely have I seen the pain of his parents' death affect Frodo's
feelings about the river. Beautiful writing. Very tender and very
bittersweet, which is how most endings in Tolkien are.
-----------------------------------
Title: A Mist of Tears and Weariness · Author: Dreamflower · Books/Time:
Post-Ring War: Friendship · ID: 981
Reviewer: Thundera Tiger · 2005-09-09 03:15:12
I really like the sense of helplessness found in both Aragorn and Merry.
They've done all they can, but they wish to do more. And it's really only in
Gandalf that this helplessness disappears. As always, the old wizard comes
when most needed, and this time he comes bringing hope. He can't promise all
will be well, but he can lend strength to hope, and for Merry, that seems to
be enough. Very touching moment, and very well written.
-----------------------------------
Title: Lost and Found · Author: Bodkin · Books/Time: Post-Ring War · ID:
1253
Reviewer: Thundera Tiger · 2005-09-09 03:15:54
Brilliant story about just how much Pippin changed. And who would know
better than his own mother? I like the idea of her wishing she had kept him
safe and sheltered in the Shire and also of how his change had shocked her
at first. But I really liked how Eglantine was able to adapt to her son's
needs and see what things might be best for him. There was some nice
characterization for Frodo, too, and I enjoyed the fact that he had a
"Tookish" look to him. I also enjoyed the fact that Merry kept Eglantine
posted on what was happening with Pippin. Once a conspirator, always a
conspirator. Nice characterization all around, and very nice extrapolation
of an older, wiser Pippin from his mother's perspective.
-----------------------------------
Title: Departing · Author: Celandine Brandybuck · Books/Time: Post-Ring War:
Final Partings · ID: 183
Reviewer: Thundera Tiger · 2005-09-09 03:16:28
I really liked this portrayal of the days following Aragorn's death. The
grief was clearly there, but it had a very mature feel to it. A feeling of
acceptance. I like the way that the various moments were portrayed more or
less as snapshots, though they seemed to cover more time than that in each
of the segments. Arwen's passing was probably my favorite part. I love the
idea that the elves were still there but that they left Arwen alone in her
grief. Even Elladan and Elrohir. And it makes sense that most of them would
sail with Legolas and Gimli.
-----------------------------------
Title: Touche · Author: DragonLady7 · Books/Time: Post-Ring War: Vignette ·
ID: 229
Reviewer: Thundera Tiger · 2005-09-09 03:17:03
Fun! This story had a brisk, tight feel to it, which works well with its
subject. I can see Faramir and Eomer talking each other into the idea of
fencing in order to sort their differences. Good pacing, and thank you for
keeping it evenly matched.
-----------------------------------
Title: I Will Know Suffering · Author: Andy Longwood · Books/Time: Post-Ring
War: Aman · ID: 704
Reviewer: Thundera Tiger · 2005-09-09 03:17:28
I like the ideas presented here that great love must be accompanied by great
sorrow. And I love the way that the narrator changes over the course of the
story, at first acting very naive towards any who come from the Hither Lands
but eventually becoming curious and more sympathetic. Good character
progression.
-----------------------------------
Title: In Plain Sight · Author: Aratlithiel · Books/Time: Post-Ring War:
Gap-Filler · ID: 885
Reviewer: Thundera Tiger · 2005-09-09 03:17:56
Ah, the problems of cross-cultural communication. On all levels. From hobbit
to man, from man to wizard, from wizard to hobbit, the list goes on. This
was a hilarious story, and by the end, I was feeling sorry for almost all
the participants, though I think Aragorn got my final sympathy vote when he
was struggling very hard to stay on his feet despite the fact that someone
could "knock him over with a feather." Of course, the sight involved would
have done similar things to anyone, but that's another matter. Brilliant
story telling and wonderful sense of humor!
-----------------------------------
Title: Borne to Me By the Sea · Author: AngelQueen · Books/Time: Post-Ring
War: Aman · ID: 1258
Reviewer: Thundera Tiger · 2005-09-09 03:18:33
This story seems to convey two very conflicting messages: patience and
restlessness. The patience comes from the fact that Galadriel goes to watch
for Celeborn day after day after day, but she seems to be growing restless,
too. It's an interesting combination, and I think it's a very valid
characterization of Galadriel. I also like the fact that only her brothers,
Celebrian, and Elrond seem to understand what she's doing. It highlights the
differences between the elves who have struggled in Middle-earth and those
who have not.
-----------------------------------
Title: Knitting · Author: AngieT · Books/Time: Post-Ring War: Friendship ·
ID: 1225
Reviewer: Thundera Tiger · 2005-09-09 03:18:54
I think I was just as startled as Merry when he came across Frodo knitting,
and the story behind this was even more startling. But it also felt very
natural, and kudos to their aunt for coming up with a way to keep Frodo
indoors and out of trouble. Highly ingenius, and it certainly worked. Beyond
that, it was absolutely hilarious. I couldn't stop laughing for a while.
Great story!
-----------------------------------
Title: Renewal · Author: Bodkin · Books/Time: Post-Ring War: Gap-Filler ·
ID: 883
Reviewer: Thundera Tiger · 2005-09-09 03:19:32
I liked the insightfulness of this story. Arda has clearly changed both
Celeborn and Thranduil, and I doubt they will be content to go over the Sea
and sing songs about days of yore. But if anything, Arda has taught them to
adapt, so in the end, I suspect they will find a way to compromise.

The bits of humor thrown into this story were also appreciated. I loved the
thought that Celebrian had taught Elrohir and Elladan how to know when
Celeborn and Galadriel were fighting. Very amusing.
-----------------------------------
Title: A City of Scarlet Flowers · Author: annmarwalk · Books/Time:
Post-Ring War: Gondor · ID: 390
Reviewer: Thundera Tiger · 2005-09-09 03:19:57
Most cultures find a way for everyone, rich and poor, to honor the fallen,
and I love the way Minas Tirith goes about this. Legolas said they needed
more flowers, and I like the thought that the soldiers who died managed to
not only preserve their country but also inspire the people to bring plants
back into the city.
-----------------------------------
Title: Pipes After Supper · Author: Ariel · Books/Time: Post-Ring War: Aman
· ID: 134
Reviewer: Thundera Tiger · 2005-09-09 03:20:59
I love the way the dialogue meanders in this story. It's very much what I
would expect from Sam and Frodo relaxing after a big dinner. And I love the
way they've both more or less resumed their old roles. It's feels familiar
and comforting. In fact, the entire story feels familiar and comforting,
which is part of its charm. Great peak into Sam and Frodo after all is said
and done.
-----------------------------------
Title: Remembrance · Author: Ancalime8301 · Books/Time: Post-Ring War:
Gap-Filler · ID: 90
Reviewer: Thundera Tiger · 2005-09-09 03:22:18
There's something very haunting about this tale. It might be that part of it
resonates so clearly with me. I've often been driven to writing when life
becomes too much to handle, but the desperation described in Frodo takes
this obsession to new heights. I can only imagine what he must have been
going through to push him so hard and so fast. It's made worse by the idea
of "well-meaning" help. That's sometimes the hardest thing of all. You know
the other person is trying, but they really can't do anything. Yet you're
almost obligated to accept their offerings because even the hope of help
might be better than no help, except that it's not and then you feel even
worse. Very vivdly told, and very effective in accessing things to which
readers can relate.
-----------------------------------
Title: Maps and Legends · Author: Anso the Hobbit · Books/Time: Post-Ring
War: Shire · ID: 1191
Reviewer: Thundera Tiger · 2005-09-09 03:22:41
Frodo and Bilbo are right. Merry is probably the one most able to appreciate
that map. After all, it was Merry who spent much of his time looking at maps
in Rivendell, it was Merry who organized the conspiracy, and it was Merry
who had the courage to disobey Theoden and ride with the Rohirrim. The
Magnificent, indeed. He would appreciate a dwarven map and the tale of
adventure that accompanies it.
-----------------------------------
Title: While There's Breath · Author: Lindelea · Books/Time: Post-Ring War:
Shire · ID: 1277
Reviewer: Thundera Tiger · 2005-09-09 03:25:29
Lindelea usually weaves her story into larger events, making an epic within
an epic, but this story was a departure from that norm, proving that
Lindelea can do both the novels and the stand-alones. It was a powerful
story, containing all the emotion Lindelea usually creates but given in a
shorter space, which made it more intense. I loved Pippin's persistence. He
showed so much of that in the books, and it continued here. And even when he
was tiring and others were arriving, he kept at it, stubborn and loyal as a
Took should be. Great story. Tightly written and very intense.
-----------------------------------
Title: Alterations · Author: Eledhwen · Books/Time: Post-Ring War: Gondor ·
ID: 260
Reviewer: Thundera Tiger · 2005-09-09 03:26:06
The final chapters of RotK sometimes feel more like a beginning than an end,
and this story was a great exploration of that. Certainly it’s an end for
some, and the parts with Elrond, Galadriel, and Gandalf reflected that.
Frodo, too, to an extent. Their time is over. But for the rest, they’re just
getting started, and I enjoyed watching them make their plans and anticipate
what the coming years would bring. The adjustments each is making show how
much they’ve all changed. And also how much they’ve stayed the same. Great
viewpoints, and it was refreshing to see each Fellowship member get the
attention they deserve.
-----------------------------------
Title: Butterbur and the King · Author: Eledhwen · Books/Time: Post-Ring
War: Vignette · ID: 261
Reviewer: Thundera Tiger · 2005-09-09 03:27:20
Two things really stood out to me in this story, though there are a host of
amazing things I could comment on. But first and foremost, the narrative:
Butterbur's voice was perfect. It had that rambling, bumpkin feel to it, but
when it came to his inn and manning his staff, he was all business. It's an
odd sort of combination, and it was pulled off very effectively here.
Brilliant mirror to canon.

The second thing I loved about this story was the humor. It's a wry humor
for the most part that seems to lurk in the background and then pop up for a
moment before fading away again. The question of Arnor's location and
Butterbur's return to this question in the end were good examples, and it
added a quirky, simple feel to the whole thing. Very skillfully crafted.
-----------------------------------
Title: Farewell · Author: Forodwaith · Books/Time: Post-Ring War: Final
Partings · ID: 362
Reviewer: Thundera Tiger · 2005-09-09 03:27:43
Radagast intrigues me, and there's no mention of him leaving Middle-earth,
which intrigues me even more. Because of that, I loved this conversation
between Gandalf and Radagast. It's short and soon over, but it explains so
much. These are the last of the Istari that came over, and now they're
parting, too. Radagast using Gandalf's own words against him was an inspired
touch, and I think his decision is the right one, even if he is laboring
forever.
-----------------------------------
Title: Sunstar · Author: illyria-pffyffin · Books/Time: Post-Ring War: Final
Partings · ID: 705
Reviewer: Thundera Tiger · 2005-09-09 03:28:06
So that's how Sam got across the Sea. I liked the idea that it wasn't an
instant decision for him. It was something he had to think about for a
while. And I loved his appreciation for all the little things in life,
especially for things that Rosie would say in the morning. But what really
got to me was the idea that Frodo viewed such things a priceless because he
didn't have them. That was powerful. Frodo himself, even if it wasn't really
Frodo, was great in this story, and I love the way he made certain that Sam
knew the decision was always his. Great story.
-----------------------------------
Title: Light On the Way · Author: Larner · Books/Time: Post-Ring War:
Romance · ID: 794
Reviewer: Thundera Tiger · 2005-09-09 03:29:36
This story boasts some interesting contrasts in style. There's a very
timeless feel to much of it, particularly the parts where Aragorn reunites
with friends already gone, but in other parts (primarily the parts with
Eldarion) it becomes much more familiar and moves at a faster pace. Which I
find appropriate, given the subject matter. It was a time of many changes
and transitions, and the narrative reflects that.
-----------------------------------
Title: Namarie, Elessar · Author: Joanna · Books/Time: Post-Ring War: Final
Partings · ID: 746
Reviewer: Thundera Tiger · 2005-09-09 03:31:16
I really enjoyed this look into Arwen at the time of Aragorn's death. And I
loved how her thoughts turned to Gilraen, who had gone on to raise a child
even after Arathorn's death. That's an interesting comparison to make, and I
wonder if Arwen could have done the same. I'd like to think so, because she
impressed me with her strength throughout this story. Another character that
impressed me was Eldarion. He was a very strong figure in the few scenes he
had, and I loved his understanding and his acceptance of his mother's
leaving. There's quite a bit of wisdom in that man, and I saw in him echoes
of both parents.
-----------------------------------
Title: Greenery · Author: Forodwaith · Books/Time: Post-Ring War: Gondor ·
ID: 14
Reviewer: Thundera Tiger · 2005-09-09 03:32:32
Brilliant portrayal of both an OC and of Arwen, too. Based on this, I
suspect that she would make a very strange queen. But at the same time, a
very good one. I especially liked the way Helin tried to describe her smile.
The word "wild" was excellent, especially since it was accompanied by
something so homelike as good smells from the kitchen. It seemed to
encompass the idea that elves are more or less walking contradictions, but
it also gave that idea substance and imagery. I also like the small comments
about culture, particularly the notion about the healers and the nobility
pretending that the other didn't exist. That brought a smile to my face.
-----------------------------------
Title: What Thou Lovest Well · Author: LadyAranel · Books/Time: Post-Ring
War: Incomplete · ID: 458
Reviewer: Thundera Tiger · 2005-09-09 03:32:56
In just two short chapters, Lady Aranel manages to convey a very deep, very
vibrant level of friendship between Faramir and Legolas as well as Eowyn and
Legolas. If the story is going to build itself upon that foundation, then
it's on very good footing. I'm anxious to read more.
-----------------------------------
Title: Orc Sign · Author: Kit5 (aka Pippinswolf) · Books/Time: Post-Ring
War: Friendship · ID: 833
Reviewer: Thundera Tiger · 2005-09-09 03:33:37
I love the way that the Brandybucks and the Tooks were handled in this
story. They were much more militaristic than the average hobbit, but even
they had some trouble understanding all of what Merry and Pippin endured on
the Quest. This was nothing if not a learning experience for all of them,
and I think that many now understand a great deal more than they wanted to.
Good character growth for everyone, and thank you for giving everyone the
attention they deserve.
-----------------------------------
Title: In Thranduil's Halls · Author: Gwynnyd · Books/Time: Post-Ring War:
Vignette · ID: 1304
Reviewer: Thundera Tiger · 2005-09-09 03:35:32
So often it's the tangible things that turn our minds to strange paths. Such
as Legolas finding the shape of his hands in the rock ledge and then using
that to examine his sea-longing. Great use of metaphors, and I love the
reasoning behind his decision to tarry.
-----------------------------------
Title: Who Will Care? · Author: faramir_boromir · Books/Time: Post-Ring War:
Gondor · ID: 612
Reviewer: Thundera Tiger · 2005-09-09 03:36:44
Brilliant little vignette! Faramir has clearly mantled the responsibilities
of a Steward, and he has a very interesting perspective on the whole thing.
Of course, given his words in Ithilien (and those words were a great way to
start this story off) I should have expected nothing less. In both peace and
war, the realm must be cared for. Legolas has already noted its neglect in
the garden areas, but thankfully, Faramir is well equipped to do something
about its library. And once he sorts out why he's doing this, I think he
begins to enjoy it. I love his reasons for beginning the task, and I love
the titles he comes across and his method of organization. All very Faramir,
and I would like to visit this library once he's finished. It would make for
a fantastic experience.
-----------------------------------
Title: Concerning Ladders · Author: grey_wonderer · Books/Time: Post-Ring
War: Friendship · ID: 926
Reviewer: Thundera Tiger · 2005-09-09 03:37:56
The thing that impressed me most about this story was the dialogue. It's
brilliant. The first conversation between Merry and Pippin was especially
good, complete with Merry's exasperation and Pippin's hopeful expectation of
help. The give and take between the two rang clearly as a conversation
between old friends who know one another all too well . I also like the fact
that it was Pippin who ended up on the roof. Of all the hobbits, he seemed
the least bothered by heights during the Quest, so I wasn't too surprised to
find him up on the roof. I wondered what he was doing and suspected Merry
had missed something important, but at least it was all set right in the
end.
-----------------------------------
Title: Telling the Bees · Author: Fileg · Books/Time: Post-Ring War: Shire ·
ID: 343
Reviewer: Thundera Tiger · 2005-09-09 03:38:27
I hadn't heard of that superstition before, but I'm grateful that Fileg
chose to work it into a story. I think it fits very nicely into the world of
Middle-earth, with its giant eagles, sentient horses, and curious foxes. And
I can't imagine a person better equipped to talk to the bees than Samwise
Gamgee. I really like the idea that telling them might have given him
strength to go forward and tell Rosie, who might have already known, in any
case. This story also has the feel of a much wiser Sam than the one who set
out on the Quest. The narrative voice seems to hover between rustic gardener
and future mayor, and I find that very appropriate. Nicely done.
-----------------------------------
Title: Hardiness · Author: Forodwaith · Books/Time: Post-Ring War: Shire ·
ID: 372
Reviewer: Thundera Tiger · 2005-09-09 03:39:26
There was plenty of potential here for a dark, dreary story, but thankfully,
Forodwaith didn't let it come to that. In fact, this was a brilliant story
of hope, and I loved the bits of humor that were tossed in, particularly the
last concerning the lobelia. That made me laugh. And I was grinning as wide
as Sam was when the part about the roses came up. Very nice tone throughout
the story. And nice perspective voice, too. This was Sam in his element,
which was something we never saw during the Quest, and he immediately
settled down and got to work. I was surprised at how very practical he was
about everything. Granted that he was always a practical hobbit, but it came
through even more so here in his own garden. Good characterization.
-----------------------------------
Title: Valour Without Renown · Author: Forodwaith · Books/Time: Post-Ring
War: Incomplete · ID: 737
Reviewer: Thundera Tiger · 2005-09-09 03:40:20
I think what I like best about this story is the fact that it takes its
time. The plot unfolds slowly, adding connections here and tying in with
canon there. It's never too slow. The pace is excellent. But with each new
chapter, another layer is added, such as the identity of Elfled's father or
other details that make previous chapters more enriching. Very nice
narrative construction, and clearly well outlined.
-----------------------------------
Title: In The Shadow of His Blade · Author: pipkinsweetgrass · Books/Time:
Post-Ring War: Gondor · ID: 803
Reviewer: Thundera Tiger · 2005-09-09 03:43:24
Only a hobbit would greet Boromir like that. Interesting account of a
memorial that surely existed somewhere in Tolkien's universe. I like the
fact that it was framed as one of Bergil's memories. That was a good way to
tie it all together.
-----------------------------------
Title: The Long Defeat · Author: Perelleth · Books/Time: Post-Ring War: Aman
· ID: 1213
Reviewer: Thundera Tiger · 2005-09-09 03:44:04
There was so much power put into this story. Celeborn's grief was all but
tangible, and his thoughts were heart-breaking as he considered the road
that Galadriel took and the road that he took. I have to agree. His defeat
was far more devastating than hers, and his road was the longer one. But the
end satisfied me, and I like the idea that his efforts are not without
fruit. Great story, and great closure for Celeborn.
-----------------------------------
Title: Requiem for Boromir · Author: maranya14 · Books/Time: Post-Ring War ·
ID: 6
Reviewer: Thundera Tiger · 2005-09-09 03:44:59
This was a beautiful requiem. Very moving, and very appropriate. I found a
great deal of closure, and it always seemed to come from the right people.
For example, I found it particularly appropriate that Faramir would finish
the wind song that Aragorn and Legolas started. As Captain of the Rangers in
Ithilien, he was probably well acquainted with that wind. I like the phrase
"darkling wind," and I like how this wind sees Boromir far away in the west,
which concludes the song on a message of hope. And I think it very
appropriate that Imrahil and Gandalf, the two who held Minas Tirith together
after Denethor's fall, would counsel Faramir in his grief over his brother.
A beautiful wrap-up all around, and wonderful handling of a delicate
subject.
-----------------------------------
Title: As the Magnet Finds Iron · Author: Nessime · Books/Time: Post-Ring
War · ID: 491
Reviewer: Thundera Tiger · 2005-09-09 03:45:21
There are so many characters in Tolkien's work that it's sometimes easy to
forget about the smaller people who never found names in canon. This story
does a wonderful job of bringing those people to life and showing how they
cope with the losses they experienced. Sometimes the best tales are the
small and simple stories about moving on. I'm grateful to this story for
reminding me of that.
-----------------------------------
Title: At Last · Author: Mariposa · Books/Time: Post-Ring War: Shire · ID:
808
Reviewer: Thundera Tiger · 2005-09-09 03:45:53
Great intensity! The emotions in these two drabbles were powerful and
heartfelt, and I think they were made even more so by the fact that it took
time to release them. The happened after the initial shock and only when the
reality began to set in, and that makes them feel more profound. More real.
And I loved the different way in which Merry and Pippin went home, one with
tears and one with laughter. It's essentially the same thing in this case,
but the different ways of expressing it say so much about these two hobbits.
Nicely done!
-----------------------------------
Title: As Good As You · Author: pearltook1 · Books/Time: Post-Ring War:
Shire · ID: 854
Reviewer: Thundera Tiger · 2005-09-09 03:47:08
First of all, I have to commend Pearltook for not turning this into an angst
fest. There was opportunity for that, but the story never turned that way.
Instead, it stayed focused upon life, death, and how to deal with both.
While not exactly a hopeful, upbeat story, it was certainly not a sad,
depressing wallow. It found balance and it stuck to that balance, which is
perhaps the best way to do a story of passing like this one. Well done.
-----------------------------------
Title: Offerings · Author: Lyllyn · Books/Time: Post-Ring War · ID: 27
Reviewer: Thundera Tiger · 2005-09-09 03:47:40
This little story packed quite a bit of punch. I enjoyed the idea that the
burden of battle was bittersweet. She carries the stain of what happened and
what she's endured, but she feels as though she might be escaping. But what
I liked best was that when she woke, she discovered she hadn't really
escaped after all. Her spirit was still damaged. Very deft touch on a
difficult topic, because Eowyn's decision to ride is a problematic one. I
like that she sees her healing as something that might atone for her
disobedience.
-----------------------------------
Title: That Which Remains · Author: mir_noldoris · Books/Time: Post-Ring
War: Final Partings · ID: 1025
Reviewer: Thundera Tiger · 2005-09-09 03:48:31
I love the way that this story shows the price of victory. Everyone has lost
something, and for some, it is something they will never be able to have
again. I think my favorite parts were those focusing on Elladan and Elrohir,
and how they seemed to be caught in the middle without ever really belonging
there. That struck a very somber tone. But I also loved the moment between
Celeborn and Gimli, when the dwarf offers to return the strands of hair.
Celeborn had some fantastic introspection, and I love the idea that if he
had loved less he would have dared more. Great thought coming from Celeborn,
and brilliant writing all around.
-----------------------------------
Title: The Horn-Cry of Buckland · Author: Lulleny · Books/Time: Post-Ring
War: Shire · ID: 467
Reviewer: Thundera Tiger · 2005-09-09 03:48:56
There was a very bittersweet feel to this story. Certainly it was cheerful
enough in places, and it began and ended on a happy note. But in the middle,
underlying all the preparations and the ride, was a sense that not
everything was as the characters wished it to be. And that came out well
toward the end. The Travelers might have gone home, but home had changed and
so had they. Very insightful look at Pippin and Merry many years after the
Quest.
-----------------------------------
Title: Bearer of Bad Tidings · Author: LOTR_lover · Books/Time: Post-Ring
War: Aman · ID: 12
Reviewer: Thundera Tiger · 2005-09-09 03:49:17
I would not have wanted to be in Elrond's shoes for this meeting with
Celebrian. But I appreciated what Galadriel had to say on this being a
beginning as well as an end. Good advice, and I'm glad to see that Elrond is
wise enough to take it.
-----------------------------------
Title: Truth and Consequences · Author: Mariposa · Books/Time: Post-Ring
War: Shire · ID: 837
Reviewer: Thundera Tiger · 2005-09-09 03:50:29
Here's an aspect to the story that I'd always wondered about but never had
the courage to tackle myself. I'm glad Mariposa did. How DID Sam, Merry, and
Pippin react to their fame? And I think Mariposa gives a fascinating answer.
They're a bit uneasy at the thought, but more than that, they have problems
getting through the tales themselves. And I think that says a lot about them
and also about how the Shire has helped them move so far away from those
experiences that they have problems reliving them. Interesting perspective.
-----------------------------------
Title: All Hallows' Day · Author: Marnie · Books/Time: Post-Ring War · ID:
317
Reviewer: Thundera Tiger · 2005-09-09 03:51:15
Definitely more upbeat than your usual ghost story. And let me say thank you
to Marnie for looking after all the elves who didn't cross the Sea on that
first trip. She's managed to find another one and bring him home. Celeborn's
involvement is both expected and appropriate, and I love the fact that this
story is told from the perspective of a sailor who was certain that he was
going to die. His descriptions of things for which he has no words were
brilliant. They made it seem more spectacular than it would have been if it
had been told from a different perspective. This tale started out dark, but
it definitely ended on a good note. Elmo has his golden eyes back, and I
absolutely loved the tidbit about St. Elmo's fire heralding the end of the
storm. Very appropriate for this particular story.
-----------------------------------
Title: Dreme · Author: Singe · Books/Time: Post-Ring War: Aman · ID: 858
Reviewer: Thundera Tiger · 2005-09-09 03:54:01
Fascinating trip through the land of Frodo's dreams. I love the way things
seemed to shift, and how nothing was ever really quite there. It changed.
And Frodo couldn't quite identify with any of it until he found Celebrian.
It felt so much like a dream that I had to keep reminding myself that Frodo
actually did go to the Undying Lands. And I loved the bits of humor that
cropped up, such as Bilbo redecorating to keep out the Sackville-Bagginses,
or Elrond emphasizing that Celebrian was HIS wife. There was almost a
whimsical feel to the whole thing until the end, in which it all seemed to
come together. Nicely done.
-----------------------------------
Title: All I Ever Wanted · Author: pippinfan88 · Books/Time: Post-Ring War:
Friendship · ID: 844
Reviewer: Thundera Tiger · 2005-09-09 03:54:18
And a new twist in hobbit courtship is born. I always thought there was
something fishy about just how many of them are married... But seriously,
this was a fun little story, and I enjoyed the fact that both Merry and
Estella seemed to be testing each other. Despite being drunk.
-----------------------------------
Title: Coming Home · Author: SilverMoonLady · Books/Time: Post-Ring War:
Romance · ID: 1071
Reviewer: Thundera Tiger · 2005-09-09 03:55:13
The thing I appreciate most about SilverMoonLady's writing is the fact that
while she keeps the hobbits light and cheerful on the surface, she also
gives them the depths that they showed in LotR. And in the case of this
story, those depths are dark. For all of them. This story is filled with
layers upon layers, and the idea that there are still ill-intentioned
hobbits roaming around is brilliant. I don't think I've ever seen them
portrayed this prominent or this dark before, but it certainly explains how
things could have become so bad while the Travelers were away. Great story
with wonderful complexity and fully realized characters from each of the
hobbits.
-----------------------------------
Title: Memory of Ents · Author: Rabidsamfan · Books/Time: Post-Ring War:
Friendship · ID: 800
Reviewer: Thundera Tiger · 2005-09-09 03:55:39
The last line of this story is what really pulls it all together. You can
see it coming, but when it hits, it's so quiet and so simple that it becomes
very powerful. I also liked the quick notes of characterization, such as
Pippin's eventual boredom and the fact that Merry and Sam indulge this
primarily because it's been so long since they've seen that side of him.
That was a great statement on how much they've all changed and how they're
trying to find themselves again after their adventure.
-----------------------------------
Title: Light out of Darkness · Author: Shirebound · Books/Time: Post-Ring
War: Gap-Filler · ID: 895
Reviewer: Thundera Tiger · 2005-09-09 03:56:19
The remarkable thing about this story was that it plunged straight into very
weighty issues and stayed there, even when it turned to lighter matters.
There's a sense that no matter what Frodo is doing, something bigger is
going on. I think this was best realized by the very last line, where
Gandalf considers hobbits and light but casually comments on the imminent
theft of Frodo's fork. Aside from weighty matters, though, this was also a
journey of hope. The difference is obvious. Frodo begins the story crying
out for Sam but toward the end is able to feel the peace in Galadriel's
song. Very nice character development, and good interaction from all who
come into contact with Frodo.
-----------------------------------
Title: Sing Me Home · Author: Shirebound · Books/Time: Post-Ring War: Aman ·
ID: 516
Reviewer: Thundera Tiger · 2005-09-09 03:56:49
There are quite a few stories that focus on Frodo's healing once he gets to
Tol Eressea, but so few focus on the journey itself. And the journey, I
suspect, was half the battle. I like the idea that it was a fight to get
Frodo to leave Middle-earth behind. It's a great concept, and the use of
Arwen's gift was brilliant. Characterizations were good all around, and when
Sam popped in for the end, there was a good sense of closure. Well done.
-----------------------------------
Title: Guarding the Shire · Author: Shirebound · Books/Time: Post-Ring War:
Gap-Filler · ID: 513
Reviewer: Thundera Tiger · 2005-09-09 03:57:39
So Gandalf explains a part of the mystery to Aragorn and Merry. I like the
idea that he didn't know himself why the Shire was so important. It feels a
lot like his decision to trust Frodo to carry the Ring to Rivendell, and
then to Mount Doom after that. And I also like the idea that Merry would be
concerned with what is going on back in the Shire. Based on what he did in
canon, he would be the one to pick up on something like that, especially
after Aragorn confessed unease to finding pipe-weed at Isengard. It also
feels appropriate that he would confront this worry away from the other
hobbits, so as not to burden them. Nice characterizations all around.
-----------------------------------
Title: Blood Ties · Author: Pipspebble · Books/Time: Post-Ring War:
Friendship · ID: 834
Reviewer: Thundera Tiger · 2005-09-09 03:58:05
We see a bit of Sam's reaction to Frodo's departure and also a hint of how
he moves beyond it, but we see very little from Merry and Pippin aside from
song as they ride away. This story completes the tale nicely, telling why
they were singing and how that song eventually became tears after enough
prodding and time had passed. Very tenderly done and written with a light
touch that was very appropriate for the hobbits.
-----------------------------------
Title: The Masters of Buckland Have Always Been Romantic · Author: Saoirse ·
Books/Time: Post-Ring War: Shire · ID: 624
Reviewer: Thundera Tiger · 2005-09-09 03:58:23
Ah, the romantic Masters of Buckland. You know, I can see this about Merry.
And about the Brandybucks in general. A collection of hobbits who manage to
live on the wrong side of the river and right next to the Old Forest without
losing their minds probably spend a good amount of time on diversions, and
what better diversion is there than romance? Fun story!
-----------------------------------
Title: Tall Tales · Author: Pipwise Brandygin · Books/Time: Post-Ring War:
Shire · ID: 1153
Reviewer: Thundera Tiger · 2005-09-09 03:58:51
I love the way this story laid down links to the past. It mentioned Pippin's
own childhood, his parents, his experiences on the Quest, and it finally
ended with a fantastic imitation of Treebeard that made me laugh. But the
way it anchored itself to previous events made it feel very entwined with
Tolkien's canon, as though it was something from the appendices that's been
overlooked until now.
-----------------------------------
Title: The Last Time · Author: SoundOfHorns · Books/Time: Post-Ring War:
Final Partings · ID: 1118
Reviewer: Thundera Tiger · 2005-09-09 04:00:39
Merry's grief was clear and biting in this piece. I don't think I've ever
seen a story that made him quite this sorrowful, but the build up to the
sorrow made it believable. I love the way that he and Aragorn are having
more or less the same conversation, but they seem to be talking about
entirely different things. And I love Aragorn's grief after Merry goes, too,
and his fear of a death without hobbits. Very touching.
-----------------------------------
Title: Dolor Meus · Author: Werecat · Books/Time: Post-Ring War · ID: 897
Reviewer: Thundera Tiger · 2005-09-09 04:01:27
I'm not a fan of the Feanorians, but Maglor has always intrigued me a bit.
Radagast, on the other hand, is someone that I wish appeared in fanfiction
more often. I find it strangely appropriate that he would be the one to
fetch Maglor home. He worked with things that could be renewed, and that's
something that Maglor is being offered here. Good mix of modern era and
Tolkien, too. I like the idea that Maglor's first songs were wild and
heathen-sounding. I imagine that laments for the First Age and everything
he's endured wouldn't go over well, even though the language could not be
understood.
-----------------------------------
Title: The King's Summons · Author: Tanaqui · Books/Time: Post-Ring War:
Gondor · ID: 1392
Reviewer: Thundera Tiger · 2005-09-09 04:01:47
This story made me smile. I enjoyed the line about Beregond always being a
city guard, but more than that, I enjoyed the roundabout way he used to tell
Legolas the good news. It made it much more fun for both of them, and I
think it was also a good way of getting back at Legolas for his annoyance.
Nice counterpoint.
-----------------------------------
Title: War Stories · Author: Tanaqui · Books/Time: Post-Ring War: Gondor ·
ID: 1367
Reviewer: Thundera Tiger · 2005-09-09 04:02:39
I get the sense that Aragorn's words are meant for more than just Eldarion.
Faramir's hesitation seems to indicate that he needs to hear words like
this. And Aragorn is right. It takes courage to keep a city safe, and
Faramir has courage enough of that kind to spare.
-----------------------------------
Title: By All The Signs · Author: Tialys · Books/Time: Post-Ring War · ID:
757
Reviewer: Thundera Tiger · 2005-09-09 04:03:03
This is a fun little story. I liked the mix of modern and ancient, and I
liked the description of Reggie's big boots. He would probably be more
comfortable without them. And I am very much taken with the idea that not
all the history is lost, though the race of men seems to have forgotten
quite a bit. But trust hobbits to keep records of everything and everyone
they might be related to. Good, swift pace, and nice conclusion.
-----------------------------------
Title: The Other Day · Author: Space Weavil · Books/Time: Post-Ring War ·
ID: 159<br/><br/>(Message over 64 KB, truncated)