Yahoo Forum Archive

Title: A
<http://www.henneth-annun.net/challenge/chapter.cfm?STID=1535&NGID=72>
Sonnet to the White Lady . Author: Ijemanja
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=28
5> . Genres: Romance: Poetry . ID: 414
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_perpage=500&lowbandwidth=1&navbar_page=12&form_story_filter=414>
Reviewer: Thundera
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=86

> Tiger . 2005-10-03 00:00:00 Score: 4

It sounds as though Faramir is a man lost in love. He's certainly a poet,
and I love the very Renaissance feel of this poem. It's very appropriate, I
think, for Faramir who would probably have studied things like this. The
imagery is striking, and I love the way he pays homage to both her beauty
and her heart, taking into account what years will do to her outward
appearance. Very full and encompassing love sonnet.
-----------------------------------
Title: Anglachel
<http://www.henneth-annun.net/stories/chapter.cfm?STID=1459> . Author:
Fileg
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=10
6> . Genres: Romance: Poetry . ID: 339
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_perpage=500&lowbandwidth=1&navbar_page=12&form_story_filter=339>
Reviewer: Thundera
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=86

> Tiger . 2005-10-03 00:00:00 Score: 6

An unconventional pairing insofar as a love poem is concerned, but it
definitely works. The imagery is brilliant, and I love all the references to
darkness. It's definitely not a happy love poem, and given the circumstances
in which these two were brought together, that's very fitting. And it's very
fitting that they would use these circumstances to fuel their...I hesitate
to call it "love," but perhaps "drive" would work in this case. And great
use of the terzanelle, which I've decided is a ridiculously difficult form.
But it feels effortless here, and the repeated lines flow naturally into the
surrounding lines as though there was nowhere else they could have been
placed. Beautiful poem!
-----------------------------------
Title: A Spring of
<http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterlistview.asp?SID=3738> Joy . Author:
daw
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=17
6> the minstrel . Genres: Drama (includes Angst): Mirkwood . ID: 1320
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_perpage=500&lowbandwidth=1&navbar_page=12&form_story_filter=1320>
Reviewer: elliska
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=14
3> . 2005-10-03 00:00:00 Score: 10
What an ironic title this story has. I have read very few pieces of fiction,
regular published books or fanfiction, that made me cry like this one did. I
love the canon events in this and the research that went into them--the
'creature' in the wood, Dol Guldur, Mithrandir's appearance (always a sign
of trouble to come, I guess).

As usual the relationships between the characters are incredible in
this--Legolas's easy friendship with Annael and his trust in his scouting
and Sinnarn begging his father for the chance to do something by going to
Dol Guldur--even better (if you take my meaning) since the outcome is so
tragic.

Thank heavens for the comedy that we see--Legolas and Beliond in
Laketown--there isn't a line in that whole part that isn't perfect and
clever. I love it. The people's reactions to elves and Beliond's to the way
they smell--too funny.

And I love seeing what a leader Legolas is in this story. He truly is
Fellowhip Legolas here.

But of course in the end it is incredibly tragic. The loss of Sinnarn--a
character that you made us really love--was just heartrending. I agree that
is is very realistic and true to Tolkien--people made sacrifices and died
iin his world and it makes sense that someone in Thranduil's family would
too. But you portrayed it so powerfully! I cried my eyes out the first time
I read it and again now when I just skimmed it to review. Very well written
daw!
-----------------------------------
Title: Visions of
<http://www.henneth-annun.net/stories/chapter.cfm?STID=74> Despair . Author:
Aralanthiriel
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=35
5> . Books/Time: The Lord of The Rings: Gondor . ID: 663
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_perpage=500&lowbandwidth=1&navbar_page=12&form_story_filter=663>
Reviewer: Thundera
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=86

> Tiger . 2005-10-03 00:00:00 Score: 7

Denethor makes a fascinating subject for introspection, and he's portrayed
very well here. The suspicions, the logic, the methods...they all have a
basis of some sort, and though his assumptions are wrong about a few things,
you can tell that Denethor hasn't done anything on a whim. His grief over
Boromir was shown well, and I love the inner conflict he feels whenever he
has to deal with Faramir. I don't think I've ever read a characterization
quite like this, and though I typically like Denethor, rarely have I found
him to be such a sympathetic character. It really did come crashing down
around him in the end. Great introspection, and the pacing was very good,
too. I like the style of moving from moment to moment, focusing on the
turning points rather than the cluttering details.
-----------------------------------
Title: The
<http://www.henneth-annun.net/challenge/chapter.cfm?STID=1581&NGID=42>
Wizard and His Pupil . Author: Acacea
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=19
6> . Books/Time: The Lord of The Rings: Gondor . ID: 53
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_perpage=500&lowbandwidth=1&navbar_page=12&form_story_filter=53>
Reviewer: Thundera
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=86

> Tiger . 2005-10-03 00:00:00 Score: 5

There's a very quiet feeling about this story. Like the lull in the air once
the storm has passed, and given what everyone's faced, I think that very
fitting. Faramir seems to be in a nostalgic mood, but even while
reminiscing, he's sharp. Very sharp. But it's tempered by this feeling of
quiet and also by an understanding that Denethor lost somewhere. I very much
enjoyed this little conversation, and it's saddening to think it will
probably be the last one that he and Gandalf have. I like the way they leave
it, though, by affirming their friendship and letting the past lie. Great
vignette.
-----------------------------------
Title: Because
<http://www.livejournal.com/users/talechallenge02/5302.html#cutid1> You're
With Me . Author: Lady
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=47
2> of Ithilien . Races/Places: Hobbits: Children . ID: 1236
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_perpage=500&lowbandwidth=1&navbar_page=12&form_story_filter=1236>
Reviewer: Thundera
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=86

> Tiger . 2005-10-03 00:00:00 Score: 2

Surprisingly touching moment at the end of this story. Simple and yet very
profound. I love the way Pippin trusts Merry and also the way that Merry
seems so surprised by such complete trust. Very heartwarming.
-----------------------------------
Title: A <http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterview.asp?sid=2364&cid=9766>
Soldier's Tale . Author: grey_wonderer
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=62

> . Races/Places: Hobbits: Children . ID: 1134

<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_perpage=500&lowbandwidth=1&navbar_page=12&form_story_filter=1134>
Reviewer: Thundera
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=86

> Tiger . 2005-10-03 00:00:00 Score: 4

This was such a fun story! I don't think I've ever seen an LotR fanfic from
the perspective of a toy soldier. Especially not a hobbit's toy soldier. I
love the way his mind works, and I love the labels he's given to everybody.
Pippin as the Intruder made me laugh. I knew immediately who it was when
soldiers began disappearing out of the ranks. Great alternate viewpoint, and
the switches from the hobbits to the soldier were done very well.
-----------------------------------
Title: Through <http://www.henneth-annun.net/stories/chapter.cfm?STID=4538>
Shadows Falling . Author: Karri
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=10
7> . Genres: Drama (includes Angst): Elves . ID: 990
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_perpage=500&lowbandwidth=1&navbar_page=12&form_story_filter=990>
Reviewer: Thundera
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=86

> Tiger . 2005-10-03 00:00:00 Score: 5

Wonderful closure to the tale of Elured and Elurin. I'd always wondered
about those two, and this little story satisfies just about everything. The
slow realization of what happened set an almost drowsy feel to the story,
not unlike a dream, and then the appearance of Melian at the end was either
the dream's completion or waking from it. In any case, it felt very much
like something out of the Silmarillion, fantastical but also emotional and
heart-felt. Not a single word was wasted, and the brevity of the story only
added to the almost mystical feeling it created by the end.
-----------------------------------
Title: High <http://www.henneth-annun.net/stories/chapter.cfm?STID=1804>
Places . Author: Kielle
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=19
7> . Genres: Drama (includes Angst): Elves . ID: 1086
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_perpage=500&lowbandwidth=1&navbar_page=12&form_story_filter=1086>
Reviewer: Thundera
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=86

> Tiger . 2005-10-03 00:00:00 Score: 6

Perhaps one of the most difficult things to do as a writer is to build to a
climax and then cut off just before the climax is reached, leaving the
reader to do the rest. If it's not done just right, it feels incomplete and
lost. Thankfully, it was done perfectly in this story. We didn't need to
read the climax because the build, the increasing tension, and the
background playing out made a perfect atmosphere, even if Earendil remained
unaware of it. And his final words to Elwing seemed to throw us right back
into it, especially the hints of his horror as she recounts jumping into the
sea. Very intricate work with emotions and very tight perspective in the
first segment. Impressive stuff.
-----------------------------------
Title: Final <http://www.henneth-annun.net/stories/chapter.cfm?STID=3920>
Choice . Author: Meril
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=29
3> . Genres: Drama (includes Angst): Elves . ID: 1098
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_perpage=500&lowbandwidth=1&navbar_page=12&form_story_filter=1098>
Reviewer: Thundera
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=86

> Tiger . 2005-10-03 00:00:00 Score: 6

I've never been particularly fond of the Feanorians, even though I love a
good drama and angst fest. But this story made them...intriguing. Well,
Maglor and Maedhros, at least. Nimloth herself was also brilliant and
exactly what I would expect from the wife of Dior, but what really
interested me was the reaction of the two eldest Feanorians. They were
definitely their father's sons, but there was something else going on, too.
They can't be pitied or forgiven, as Nimloth points out, but there was still
something almost worthy of pity. I could see the mindset that would lead to
the guardianship of Elrond and Elros forming, and that was a fascinating
step. Good drama all around and great tale about the fall of Menegroth.
-----------------------------------
Title: Sacrifice
<http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterview.asp?sid=1464&cid=6068> Under
Shadow . Author: daw
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=17
6> the minstrel . Genres: Drama (includes Angst): Mirkwood . ID: 1319
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_perpage=500&lowbandwidth=1&navbar_page=12&form_story_filter=1319>
Reviewer: elliska
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=14
3> . 2005-10-03 00:00:00 Score: 8
This is another wondereful story. One of the things that strikes me in this
one are all the little details--receiving gloves (adar always knows what
they need), the difficulties caused by the harsh winter including food
shortages and Legolas not being to fond of porridge but being hungrry enough
to eat it. And of course Beliond graduates from nana to 'valet' -- I bet no
one said that to his face.

But Legolas and Eilian in the same patrol and in the south--poor Eilian.
That must have just about killed him all by itself. I really enjoyed the
flashbacks to Eilian last year as a novice (I think it was--his early
adulthood, anyway). That stunt was insane and I loved Legolas's somewhat
shocked reaction to the story. And, as I always do, I enjoyed the flashback
to Eilian's interaction with Lorellin a well--she deserves a full story.

And of course we have the main plot--look what you did to Eilian when
Legolas was so freshly there! I liked seeing how well Legolas handled this
situation--it showed how ready he was for that patrol. Great story daw!
-----------------------------------
Title: Love's Labours
<http://henneth-annun.net/stories/chapter.cfm?STID=300> . Author: Alawa
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=10
3> . Genres: Drama (includes Angst) . ID: 71
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_perpage=500&lowbandwidth=1&navbar_page=12&form_story_filter=71>
Reviewer: Thundera
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=86

> Tiger . 2005-10-03 00:00:00 Score: 4

I very much enjoyed this, and I loved the dual perspectives from Gilraen and
Arathorn. I loved how they both felt an almost immediate urge to spoil
Aragorn but also understood the concerns of Morwen about why they should
not. Those two are very alike, and it makes me wish that Arathorn had been
around longer. He sounds as though he would have made a very good role model
for Aragorn, particularly the part about hope. Nice foreshadowing in that.
-----------------------------------
Title: Close your
<http://www.henneth-annun.net/stories/chapter.cfm?STID=4276> Eyes . Author:
Werecat
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=83

> . Books/Time: The Lord of The Rings: Poetry . ID: 95

<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_perpage=500&lowbandwidth=1&navbar_page=12&form_story_filter=95>
Reviewer: Thundera
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=86

> Tiger . 2005-10-03 00:00:00 Score: 4

I liked this lullaby! Of course, I like just about anything having to do
with dwarves. There's so little written about them. But back to this
poem/song, it sounds almost like what any mother might sing, but then there
are the references to gems, gold, dragons, and Mahal that make it firmly
dwarven. It bridges cultures with maternal instincts, but it's still
something belonging to Mahal's children. Great stuff.
-----------------------------------
Title: Craft-masters'
<http://henneth-annun.net/stories/chapter.cfm?STID=3805> Song . Author:
Werecat
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=83

> . Books/Time: The Lord of The Rings: Poetry . ID: 129

<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_perpage=500&lowbandwidth=1&navbar_page=12&form_story_filter=129>
Reviewer: Thundera
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=86

> Tiger . 2005-10-03 00:00:00 Score: 4

I wish I had a tune to this song. Of course, knowing the dwarves, it might
be better chanted than sung. In any case, I can easily see them
chanting/singing away to this as they hammer in the mines or purge the ore
in the forges. I like that the dwarves feel their tools are singing as they
work, and given their craftsmanship, I suspect that this is very much the
case. The poem has some beautiful imagery, and I wish I could be there to
watch this all unfold.
-----------------------------------
Title: A Tale of
<http://www.henneth-annun.net/stories/chapter.cfm?STID=2798> Years . Author:
Ellisande
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=26
1> . Books/Time: The Lord of The Rings: Poetry . ID: 269
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_perpage=500&lowbandwidth=1&navbar_page=12&form_story_filter=269>
Reviewer: Thundera
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=86

> Tiger . 2005-10-03 00:00:00 Score: 6

Fascinating, moving, and brilliantly written! These things are murder to
compose, especially a series of them like this. I honestly don't know how it
was done and I'm more than a little envious of such amazing talent. My
favorite triolet is probably the first one about Ecthelion. The lines about
doing his father's will in anything but still being perceived as naught were
powerful, and the fact that this was followed up by Thorongil's piece made
it even more powerful. The last two were my other favorites. I like how
Denethor claims Elessar is denying the past while trying to claim the
future, and I like how the final triolet speaks of Denethor's decision to
burn as a deliberate choice. A mad choice, but a choice nonetheless.
Fascinating stuff and great imagery.
-----------------------------------
Title: A
<http://www.frodosharem.org/cgi-bin/stories/display.cgi?id=304&sort=date&sto
ryview=toc&chapter=1&cat=7> Mother's Dream . Author: White
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=71

> Gull . Books/Time: The Lord of The Rings: Poetry . ID: 1209

<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_perpage=500&lowbandwidth=1&navbar_page=12&form_story_filter=1209>
Reviewer: Thundera
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=86

> Tiger . 2005-10-03 00:00:00 Score: 7

Beautiful! And very emotional, too. The ending of this poem, in particular,
had me sniffling, and that's tough to do. The poem had a very fluid feel to
it, moving from line to line smoothly and evenly. This made the imagery even
more powerful, and there was some great imagery in here. I liked the idea of
darkness falling without a setting sun, but even more than that, I liked the
line about love that "gives and gives and long outlives all reason for its
birth." This idea of love starting with Primula, embedding itself in Frodo,
and then finding itself in Sam as he helps Frodo complete the Quest is
beautiful, and the poem expresses it very well. The last lines were simple
elegance, and I love the joy and pride Primula expresses for Frodo's
experiences and his accomplishments. Very moving.
-----------------------------------
Title: Prince <http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterlistview.asp?SID=2155>
Valium? . Author: Marnie
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=24
5> . Genres: Non-Fiction: Elves . ID: 189
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_perpage=500&lowbandwidth=1&navbar_page=12&form_story_filter=189>
Reviewer: Thundera
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=86

> Tiger . 2005-10-03 00:00:00 Score: 7

I've always liked Celeborn. Even the first time I read the books (YEARS
ago), there was something about him that really hit home with me. But Marnie
made me love him, and it's in essays like these that she shows how. She puts
into words all the vague notions of why Celeborn is such an incredible elf,
and she does it by picking apart one single passage. It's incredible. With
very deliberate, very careful examination, Marnie breathes life into a
somewhat ambiguous character and brings him to the fore on a level equal to
any of the over-praised Noldor. And as with all her writings, she keeps in
mind the larger events, such as how Lothlorien's front door opens on Dol
Guldur and its backdoor opens on a Balrog. With this in mind, Celeborn has
every reason to hurry the initial conversation along, and everything seems
to fall into place. Brilliant literary study on Marnie's part, and I thank
her for it.
-----------------------------------
Title: Circle of Hands <http://www.scribeoz.com/fanfic/story.php?no=1493> .
Author: Ghettoelleth
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=23
7> . Genres: Romance: Incomplete . ID: 165
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_perpage=500&lowbandwidth=1&navbar_page=12&form_story_filter=165>
Reviewer: elliska
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=14
3> . 2005-10-03 00:00:00 Score: 10
This is a great story, Ghetto! I love the canon--especially the first three
chapters with the creation of Arda and the characterization of Osse and his
creation--that you have woven into it and the AU aspects of it. Those first
chapters really pique the reader's curiosity for what is to come. Indeed the
pacing through the entire story is excellent.

Throughout the story, I am enjoying Glorfindel and Haldir's characterization
and especially the characterization of your OFC. But one of the characters
that I am most enjoying is Cirdan--there are so few Cirdan stories and I
really like his role and personality in this. I especially like the views of
these characters through dialogue. The character conversations are witty and
sharp throughout.

And as far as characters go, of course it doesn't hurt my feelings any that
you throw in the occassional mention of some of my all time favorite
characters like Thranduil. :-)

Finally, I love the romance--it is not a completely easy one and I prefer
that because I think it i more realistic--especially between character like
these with such weighty responsibilities. I enjoyed the steamy scenes you
have written for this so far and I am looking forward to even steamier ones,
knowing your writing skills. :-)

You've got a great mystery going on here and I am anxious to see how it
develops. I know the VV is taking your time right now but please continue
this soon!
-----------------------------------
Title: Together
<http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterview.asp?sid=2158&cid=8916> In One
Breath . Author: Pipspebble
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=39
4> . Races/Places: Hobbits: War of the Ring . ID: 816
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_perpage=500&lowbandwidth=1&navbar_page=12&form_story_filter=816>
Reviewer: Thundera
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=86

> Tiger . 2005-10-03 00:00:00 Score: 4

As much as I love drama and angst, sometimes I love even more the
resolution, especially when it's pulled off as well as it was in this story.
The renewal of hope for Pippin was heartwarming, and the use of both Merry's
love and anger over his own helplessness made for a winning combination. I
liked the dual emotions working together, and I liked Pippin's determination
in seeing it through to the end. Great job.
-----------------------------------
Title: The Sea Sings a Lullaby <http://www.fanfiction.net/s/621289/1/> .
Author: Camilla
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=21
3> Sandman . Genres: Drama (includes Angst): Fourth Age . ID: 87
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_perpage=500&lowbandwidth=1&navbar_page=12&form_story_filter=87>
Reviewer: Thundera
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=86

> Tiger . 2005-10-03 00:00:00 Score: 7

The best endings are the ones that satisfy. That doesn't necessarily mean
they're happy endings. It means they draw everything together into a
conclusion that ties up all the loose ends and gives readers a sense of
closure. I get that from this story. It's not a particularly cheerful tale,
but it brings everything to a quiet, soothing close. Like a lullaby. I love
the contrasts in the writing, such as when Legolas sees white and black and
when he feels burning cold. The contrasts are very much what he himself is,
and also what he and Gimli have together become. I don't see one going
anywhere without the other, and the contrasts all bleed together when
Legolas reunites himself with the dwarf. Brilliant writing, particularly
since it's almost a stream-of-consciousness style and yet I never once lost
the thread of the narrative. Very satisfying as far as conclusions go. I can
see Legolas and Gimli ending this way.
-----------------------------------
Title: Ashes and the Flame
<http://www.scribeoz.com/fanfic/story.php?no=1243> . Author: Ariel
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=16
2> . Genres: Drama (includes Angst): Fourth Age . ID: 677
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_perpage=500&lowbandwidth=1&navbar_page=12&form_story_filter=677>
Reviewer: Thundera
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=86

> Tiger . 2005-10-03 00:00:00 Score: 5

Something I love about Aragorn from the books is how very aware he is of
actions and consequences. That's definitely present in this story. I'm not
sure I agree with the idea of Frodo leaving behind an heir, but Aragorn's
concern over the matter and his realization of his own future and Frodo's
seeming lack thereof definitely made this a worthwhile story to me. Very
nice, tender moment in which Aragorn tracks out his thoughts. I can easily
imagine him doing this when something weighs too heavily upon him.
-----------------------------------
Title: Five Things That Never Happened to
<http://www.fanfiction.net/s/2103245/1/> Faramir & Eowyn . Author: Altariel
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=18
1> . Books/Time: The Lord of The Rings: Drabble . ID: 39
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_perpage=500&lowbandwidth=1&navbar_page=12&form_story_filter=39>
Reviewer: Thundera
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=86

> Tiger . 2005-10-03 00:00:00 Score: 7

As a rule, Altariel is brilliant, and that brilliance lends itself to
absolutely fascinating drabbles. The AU scene is an interesting one, but
what makes it so interesting is watching character traits emerge that were
present in canon but are now being put to other purposes. In five short
drabbles, Altariel is able to do the same things that the epic AUs do, which
is nothing short of amazing. You can see Faramir's character and his refusal
to give up. To fight to the end no matter what and to spare a brief moment
to reflect on that. In Eowyn comes her stubbornness and her pride, but we
also see her ability to love and to give. I love the different avenues that
this drabbles explore. I think my favorite one was the drabble in which they
shared a last kiss before turning to face the darkness together, but I was
also fond of Faramir dying as the last of the stewards. Both of those strike
me as very likely scenarios had things gone differently. Excellent job!
-----------------------------------
Title: Leavetaking
<http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterview.asp?sid=1887&cid=8127> . Author:
Forodwaith
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=50

> . Genres: Drama (includes Angst): Drabble . ID: 16

<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_perpage=500&lowbandwidth=1&navbar_page=12&form_story_filter=16>
Reviewer: Thundera
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=86

> Tiger . 2005-10-03 00:00:00 Score: 5

I really liked this drabble. It had some very pointed words though I'm not
sure they were intended to be pointed, and kudos to Gilraen for getting out
before the situation could turn awkward. Her words about one of them losing
a child were brilliant. Of course, in the end, Gilraen essentially lost
Aragorn to his duties as a Ranger while Elrond still lost Arwen, but at the
same time, the circumstances could have turned out much differently than
they did. Good drabble about both parents.
-----------------------------------
Title: The <http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterview.asp?sid=2524&cid=9921>
Room of Tears . Author: Elendiari22
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=37
3> . Books/Time: The Lord of The Rings: Gondor . ID: 759
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_perpage=500&lowbandwidth=1&navbar_page=12&form_story_filter=759>
Reviewer: Lindelea
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=27

> . 2005-10-03 00:00:00 Score: 1

What a haunting story this was! It stayed with me a long time. Very
realistically written.
-----------------------------------
Title: Packing for Crickhollow <http://www.fanfiction.net/s/1777346/6/> .
Author: Rabidsamfan
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=38
0> . Genres: Drama (includes Angst): Drabble . ID: 1344
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_perpage=500&lowbandwidth=1&navbar_page=12&form_story_filter=1344>
Reviewer: Thundera
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=86

> Tiger . 2005-10-03 00:00:00 Score: 6

For some reason, this drabble really hit me hard. Perhaps it's the fact that
I'm a hopeless packrat and books are among my greatest weaknesses. Thinking
about the various fates of the books, I can't help but feel sorry for Frodo.
It's a lose-lose situation either way he goes. His solution in the end is
inspired, and clearly drawn from Bilbo's example. I think it was probably
the best thing to do, but it was also probably the hardest thing to do. The
line about his books finding a permanent home in Bag End grabbed my
attention, because that's what happens in my own home. Still, if I had
someone moving in that was remotely like the Sackville-Bagginses, I'd
probably pack the books up, too. Difficult decision and wonderful concept to
begin with!
-----------------------------------
Title: May Endure
<http://www.henneth-annun.net/stories/chapter.cfm?STID=3171> . Author:
Celandine
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=24
3> Brandybuck . Genres: Drama (includes Angst): Gondor . ID: 680
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_perpage=500&lowbandwidth=1&navbar_page=12&form_story_filter=680>
Reviewer: Thundera
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=86

> Tiger . 2005-10-03 00:00:00 Score: 7

I love the way Celandine Brandybuck paints Denethor and his family. The
characters aren't just words on paper. They come alive, complete with all
their failings and all their strengths. There's something vital about them,
and it makes the hidden moments that much more significant. I love the way
Denethor is characterized. He's almost two different characters, but they
mesh so well together in this complex steward that you believe he can be
everything that Celandine makes him out to be. So many little things are
revealed as Boromir watches Denethor with Faramir. I love the sharp glance
when he finds a book that Finduilas used to have, and I especially liked the
passage that Faramir remembers hearing. But most of all, I love how they
simply let the line hang without discussing it. It leaves the reader free to
imagine without forcing the characters to nail down something that is
elusive and delicate. Great job and great vignette!
-----------------------------------
Title: Letters <http://www.livejournal.com/users/b_briarwood/7768.html> .
Author: Breon
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=47
7> Briarwood . Genres: Romance: Vignette . ID: 1245
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_perpage=500&lowbandwidth=1&navbar_page=12&form_story_filter=1245>
Reviewer: Thundera
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=86

> Tiger . 2005-10-03 00:00:00 Score: 5

It wasn't until I was near the end of this letter that I realized who the
author was and to whom he was writing. The first paragraph made me
suspicious, but it was the idea of the writer never even being able to love
another that clinched it. And of course, this meant I had to reread it all
over again, because the meaning had changed so much with that realization.
Very powerful, and I love the almost desperate way Frodo writes about how he
will both miss and not miss the Ring. The final lines, complete with "my
precious" were chilling, and I hope that Frodo does find healing in the
West. Great job.
-----------------------------------


Final Story Reviews for the 2005 MEFAwards: 6027!


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