Yahoo Forum Archive

Title: To Follow an Elf · Author: etharei · Races: Cross-Cultural:
Incomplete · ID: 816
Reviewer: Dwimordene · 2006-08-14 15:12:25
Interesting mix of journalistic asides and narrative. Gimli's sense of
humor comes through, as does the lively relationship between Legolas and
his dwarven friend. It seems 'little' Legolas has gone and grown up
whilst on the Quest, and also been wounded, along with all his
companions, in ways that those outside the Fellowship cannot truly
understand. Add to this the swelling of internal divisions into power
politics now that the Enemy is defeated, and a sojourn at home becomes
more a trial than anyone would've anticipated. It's nice to see the
Thranduil of [The Hobbit] for once, and Nasseryn and Edendor are lovely
siblings. Gimli's sense of being at once outside the family drama, and
yet somehow at the heart of it, elevated by his unusually close
friendship with this newly 'adult' Legolas, seems believable.
-----------------------------------
Title: Peace Comes Dropping Slow · Author: Songspinner · Races: Hobbits:
Post-Grey Havens · ID: 224
Reviewer: Pearl Took · 2006-08-14 15:20:44
This is a short but incredibly stunning story of love and tenderness in
the old age that comes to many of us. Despite white hair, despite
infirmity Pippin still loves his ailing Diamond and tenderly cares for
her. Written for a challenge that required at least one naked hobbit,
the story begins with Pippin gently bathing Diamond. The reader barely
notices or thinks about her being naked, the attention is on their love
for one another and the gentleness with which Pippin tends to his wife.
It isn't until a bit into the story that the reader is made aware of the
fact this is an old couple and that Diamond has had a stroke,
necessitating her husband's needing to bathe her.

I love that he lingers over rinsing her white hair, commenting that her
hair is still beautiful. He is still seeing her with the eyes of a lover.

And the ending is touching as Diamond is concerned with Pippin's
welfare, not just wrapped up in her own condition.

All of this is handled deftly by Songspinner. The story is concise yet
doesn't feel cut short. Her word pictures are perfectly painted. This is
a warm, gentle and evocative piece of writting.

This is a truely remarkable tale.
-----------------------------------
Title: The Gift · Author: Dot · Races: Elves: Featuring Mirkwood Elves ·
ID: 160
Reviewer: Perelleth · 2006-08-14 15:51:40
Post Quest Legolas is not such a common subject in fanfiction, but his
time in Ithilien is a very interesting period, offering chances for many
interactions. In this case we get to see a loving Thranduil taking a
holiday off his realm to visit his son's experiment in Ithilien. It is
wonderful to see the fluid, caring relationship between father and son.
Thranduil the forest healer is a pleasure, in all his power and his
wisdom, and the image of the grass growing beneath his palm is
comforting beyond words.

I like the use of flashback to picture Legolas' taking his leave from
his father, in what must have been a painful moment for both of them.
Yet the gentleness between them adn their shared delight in the task
that Legolas undertook in Ithilien gives us hope that, after all,
Thranduil would have udnerstood - and accepted - his son's choice
gladly, and to the point of going down there to give a hand. It is a
moving story of what must have been a deeply felt moment between father
and son. The trees imagery is very well and consistently worked and the
characters are truly in character.

-----------------------------------
Title: An Exaltation of Larks · Author: Ibilover · Times: The Great
Years · ID: 178
Reviewer: Perelleth · 2006-08-14 15:53:30
Wonderful! Amusing! and so well documented! I'm sure you had great fun
writing this! The book sounds like one of those compendia which remind
us that there are other worlds where there is a particular, specifical
word for each minute difference or each occurrence in nature or at work!
Such richness!

It is such a rare moment between Aragorn and Boromir, and the amusement
provided by the contemplation of the hobbits is quite understandable.
Everyone is so in character, the two Men interacting, the Dwarf grunting
his opinion, but I I loved best Gandalf's intrusion. Of course he would
know! That was lovely!

The tip about the book is also very well wrought. I can very well
believe that Gandalf would have indeed done so, and it must have brought
Boromir a brief moment of comfort to share a meomory with the wizard.
And then both men laughng helplessly like children! It was priceless!


-----------------------------------
Title: History Lessons: The Third Age · Author: Nilmandra · Times:
Multi-Age: Incomplete · ID: 167
Reviewer: Perelleth · 2006-08-14 15:56:50
This is the last in the History Lessons series, a wonderfully clever
device used to refill the gaps of history of Middle earth as taught by
its main actors.

This third installment focuses on the well known events of the War of
the Ring. Using the timelime of the three books, the story tells us what
the books did not show: how this dreadful times were lived in Rivendell,
where so much was at stake, and where there would be loss no matter how
the Quest turned out.

It is a sheer delight to see how Nilmandra brought together the timeline
and the characters to bring us to the backstage, to explore
machinations, conversations, thoughts and feelings as these important
events took place. The glimpses back into earlier stages of the Third
Age, mainly Celebrian's ordeal are exquisitely managed, never overdone,
with the precise amount of suffering, pain, anguish, denial, grieving
and healing.

To me, this is fanfiction at its best, in the sense that it follows the
main story, that of the Quest, from a completely different pov, from a
place of contemplation and reflection and resistance, and this is so
diffcult to do while at the same time keeping the reader's interest!

But, of course, we all want to read what Elrond has to tell about those
times!

We are looking forward to -as well as dreading- the last chapters, for
that will mean the end of this wonderful series. The blend of creation
and canon is perfect, and you have managed to develop the archetypical
Elrond, at least to me.
-----------------------------------
Title: Interrupted Journeys: Journeys of Discovery · Author: elliska ·
Genres: Drama: Incomplete · ID: 163
Reviewer: Perelleth · 2006-08-14 16:00:18
Interrupted Journeys is a wonderful series in a wide arch of time that
covers the life of Thranduil King of Greenwod the Great, in an
impressive mix of politics, war, canon events and relationships with an
interesting approach to the Wood elves daily life.

This installment offers a view into this realm through the eys of a very
young Legolas and a bunch of other elflings his age: his cousins,
closest friends and children their age. The problems, discussions,
misunderestandings, the evil still stirring within the forest are
experienced here through the eyes of these children.It is a very
amusing, telling and interesting experience not only to see Legolas deal
with his mistakes (and his whirlwind of cousin's ) but also to learn how
they see the adults and the forest. The scene when the children watch
the adults ( King, King's brother and King's counselor) exit the throne
room in anger after a nasty interview with a dwarf is a wonderful
moment, the first time when Legolas and his cousin see their parents as
what they are, adults with power and responsiblity, and ready to act in
defence of their people. The moment is perfectly built, masterfully done
from the children's pov, There are also frightening adventures with a
boar, unfair murmuring against the king and a general sense of doom that
must have been felt around Thranduil's stronghold for great part of the
Third Age. .
-----------------------------------
Title: The Prince and the Pea · Author: Karri · Genres: Humor: Children
· ID: 158
Reviewer: Perelleth · 2006-08-14 16:01:31
A delightful, hilarious variation of the Princess and the pea folk tale,
set in Rivendell Third Age, with the heir of Isildur starring as very
gullible audience and the Lord of Lorien acting the Princess.

These are bright, merry elves at their highest. It is so easy to guess
these creatures devoted to lightness and humour at the sligthest chance!
And the poor youngster would be a nice target for their machinations.
IMladris comes out as a lively place. These elves have known each other
for so long that they can inmediately play along anything they can come
up with with the utmost seriousness and without any sense of shame!

A light, agile, charming vignette with a choral flow of characters all
in their most inspired moods. It depicts one of the many merry moments
Aragorn must have enjoyed in Rivendell as a child. The trick of using
the folk tale is more than appropriate here. I remember that I laughed
out loud when I read this piece, and it did the trick on a second reading.

-----------------------------------
Title: Elves Do Skate · Author: Caporal · Genres: Humor · ID: 135
Reviewer: Vana Tuivana · 2006-08-14 18:27:55
"Elves Do Skate" is one of my favorites of the too-rare genre of
Silmarillion fluff-fic. The characterizations are sweet and generous.
The descriptions are just dry enough to be witty without being ironic,
particularly this one:

[You know. Brother of ours, about so high..." Amras raises a hand a few
inches above his own head "...no sense of humour, blushes a lot. You
must know him."

"Not," says Amrod, incredulous, "our brother Carnistir? Not
black-like-my-soul Morifinwë?"

"The very same."]

It's almost plotless -- everything is given by suggestion, dialogue and
inference, but it does feel like a complete story in some odd way. And
of course, it's truly funny while still being sweet and fluffy, which
counts for a lot in my book.

I particularly love the last three lines because of that double-take you
have to do at the end... ["Not only up," he says.] It still makes me
laugh out loud, and this must be at least my fifth time reading it.
Wonderful writing!
-----------------------------------
Title: House of Reeds · Author: The Bookbinder's Daughter · Races: Elves
· ID: 660
Reviewer: Vana Tuivana · 2006-08-14 19:36:15
This is an unexpected, bittersweet romance between two unlikely
characters. I suggested this pairing thinking it would be difficult to
pull off, but you'd never guess it from the way this story makes it seem
so easy and natural.

The portrayal of Glorfindel after his return to Middle-earth, in
particular, is so terribly real. As I return to this nearly two years
after reading the story for the first time, I'm struck again by the
unique way he views the world, as a character who has died but is still
alive. It's one of the best-written aspects of this story, and one that
I didn't appreciate as I should have until I'd read it several times
during that two-year period.

The romance is believable and sweet without being trite, and the
characterization of both characters is fresh and interesting while still
remaining close to canon. I adore this story still. Thank you, Narmir,
for writing it so beautifully and sensitively.
-----------------------------------
Title: Young Master Merry · Author: Pearl Took · Races: Hobbits: Poetry
· ID: 666
Reviewer: Vana Tuivana · 2006-08-14 19:43:31
This is a great concept and a sweet little poem. The ending,
particularly, is great. Some of the lines' rhythms felt a little out of
synch, but overall it's a nice hobbitish ditty.
-----------------------------------
Title: Naneth - Farewell · Author: Aearwen · Races: Elves: Poetry · ID: 212
Reviewer: Marta · 2006-08-14 21:19:18
This poem did a good job of capturing the intensity of grief while being
remarkably removed. But it didn't feel very tied to the story of Maeglan
and Aredhel in particular, and I would have liked some imagery or
something that made it feel more specific in that regard.
-----------------------------------
Title: The Falcon and the Star · Author: Raksha the Demon · Times: The
Great Years: Gondor · ID: 57
Reviewer: Gandalfs apprentice · 2006-08-14 21:45:02
It's hard to find words to describe how special this story is. It takes
place almost entirely in Aragorn's mind, yet it is overflowing with
drama and emotion. In the process of the healing, you form a bond
between the two men that is already strong.

Tolkien tells us almost nothing about how Elven healing worked, so it is
left to us fanfic writers to extrapolate. It could easily be silly or
unconvincing, but Raksha's tale makes it compelling and believable. The
description of the hellish place of the Black Breath (a corner of
Sauron's mind--I really like that) and Faramir's bravery in resisting it
is moving and dramatic.

The references to Denethor are so numerous and well-done that his
personality comes alive as well--in his relationship with both Aragorn
and Faramir. I liked as well the mention of Ecthelion.

The healer's invocation is poetic and intense. I especially liked the
line about wishing he had come in time to heal Denethor. This is typical
of Aragorn's generosity.

It's wonderful that it is this moment that finally convinces Aragorn
that he is indeed the lord of Gondor. This is very in character--I
always thought that he believed he had to earn his crown, that he did
not see it as something he was born to, except in the strict sense of
hereditary right.
-----------------------------------
Title: Mathom · Author: Perelleth · Genres: Humor · ID: 192
Reviewer: Marta · 2006-08-15 00:45:55
This one had me chuckling from start to finish. All of our favourite
Rivendell elves and sundry - many of them no more than names in the
canon material - pop into a vivid three-dimensional world. And what a
world! Erestor is stressed, Glorfindel is peeved, Gilraen is the perfect
frazzled mother, the Twins are just trying to figure out what the heck
they did wrong, and Elrond is more than a little worried about his
precious wine -- which of course the dwarves don't want at all, it's all
Erestor's way of exacting quiet revenge on his lord for throwing one
more wrench in the already complicated Midsummer plans.

And then in chapter two, when we find out the *real* source of all the
hullabaloo in keeping a certain someone and Thorin's company apart, I
felt as foolish as Erestor thought Elrohir was -- but also had to bow to
the author's wonderful job at keeping things ambiguous without them
seeming that way. Clearly, Erestor is not the only one skilled at
keeping a lot of balls in the air. The fact that it was all set during
_The Hobbit_, probably the least-written of Tolkien's books and my
personal favourite for fanfic source material, made me appreciate this
piece all the more. This piece is a godsend to those in need of a bit of
a highbrow laugh.
-----------------------------------
Title: Last Rites · Author: Isabeau of Greenlea · Genres: Drama · ID: 80
Reviewer: Marta · 2006-08-15 00:52:34
There is a lot to recommend this piece, but the truly original aspect
that jumps out at me is the same thing I noticed immediately when it was
first parted. Andrahar (a long-standing OC of this author, a haradren
warrior who comes to befriend Imrahil and live in Dol Amroth) has a
much-different belief in the afterlife than our canon characters and so
does not believe he will see his lover after his death. The separation
is more final and more crushing because of this, and so Imrahil annd the
rest of the characters have no easy answers to offer. It is a fitting
tribute to Gondor's fallen warrior as well as a moving glimpse into the
hearts of the other characters in the piece, both original and canon.
-----------------------------------
Title: The Decoy Hobbit · Author: storyfish · Races: Hobbits: War of the
Ring · ID: 257
Reviewer: Bodkin · 2006-08-15 07:12:34
This is a delightful story. I love seeing Pippin as the young voice of
wisdom - looking on himself as a trained and experienced decoy hobbit,
with little difference between the little Pippin in the Shire with jam
on his face and the Pippin of the quest, distracting attention from his
cousin and giving him the chance to get through.

But the very beginning - Pippin as the decoy in an orc-slaying machine -
there is the difference. This is a desperate business under the
light-hearted banter.

And it took a hobbit to bring him back. Once Merry was with him and he
knew Frodo and Sam were safe, of course he wasn't going to fly away!
After all, you never know when they might next need a decoy hobbit!
-----------------------------------
Title: Cousin Calla · Author: Dreamflower · Races: Hobbits: Pre-Quest ·
ID: 767
Reviewer: Bodkin · 2006-08-15 07:22:59
I feel for poor Merry here. The first losses can be very traumatic -
even if those who die are old and infirm and willing to go. It can be
the first indication that your world is not inviolate. I'm glad Rory and
Menegilda waited long enough to say goodbye to their grandson.

Frodo was good for him - and Cousin Calla was an interesting inhabitant
of Brandy Hall. Remarkably talented. The glimpses into another world
were interesting - and her gift of sketches suggested that she, too,
knew her path was ending.
-----------------------------------
Title: Curious Mind, Noble Heart · Author: Nilmandra · Genres: Adventure
· ID: 270
Reviewer: Bodkin · 2006-08-15 07:26:15
What a gorgeous story. I love thinking about the relationship between
the twins and Estel. I can see how he thought of them as grown up
brothers (with a youthful streak), but from their point of view it must
have been - well - different. However much they came to love him, he was
round (and young) for such a short period of years - and they had been
there before, in a way, with his fathers and his fathers' fathers.

But a child this endearing (if trouble) - how could they resist him?

And he never means to get into trouble! He just wants to know - and to
be as good as his brothers. And, after all, they are elves. They should
hear him coming.

Estel's terror when he shot Elrohir was very well done - and his
courage. And the secret dread that Elrond might invoke some dreadful
orcish punishment. Although I think he will find the one he has drawn to
be rather more of a penalty than it seems in the first flush of guilt.

And Glorfindel is great, too. The difference between him and the twins
is still so clear - he is so much older and wiser and more experienced -
and they are still more light-hearted, despite their couple of millennia
and their experience of grief and battle. And it's good to see Gilraen
taking some part in her son's upbringing (and to see that he is as
nervous of angering his mother as he is of upsetting Elrond). Who is
such a good adar. And, contrary to youthful belief, thoroughly
experienced in disciplining the recalcitrant young!

I hope the pop-gun quietly finds its way into the depths of some lumber
room. Middle-earth is dangerous enough with swords and arrows and spears
without needing the addition of firearms!
-----------------------------------
Title: Healing the Healer · Author: SlightlyTookish · Times: The Great
Years: The Fellowship · ID: 935
Reviewer: Bodkin · 2006-08-15 07:40:23
Having Aragorn fretted over and cosseted by the hobbits is a definitely
amusing thought! Especially Merry's herbal paste. Somehow, seeing
Strider tormented with the best and most caring intentions is
delightful. However, you can certainly see that wishing to offer him
that level of care is an indication that he has become a friend - almost
an honorary hobbit.

Boromir's aid was most welcome. And, of course, he can expect the
results to return to him - with great pleasure, I would think! Gimli
must be hoping that dwarves are resistant to colds.

Pippin's fascination with his bald feet - the hot cloths - I'm not
surprised Aragorn just gave into the pressure. And Sam's soup must have
made up for a lot!

Charming tale. And Gandalf's word are - naturally - very wise.
-----------------------------------
Title: Celebrian, Sell i Nos Galadhad · Author: Redheredh · Genres:
Drama: Incomplete · ID: 318
Reviewer: Bodkin · 2006-08-15 07:59:21
There are so many things I enjoy about this story. For one thing you
have set up such a delightfully complex society full of the most
delightfully complex characters, all buzzing around and trying to
out-think and outmanoeuvre all the others. Then, Celebrian is gorgeous -
and, as the true child of both her parents, as clever as a barrel load
of monkeys and as charming as it is possible to be without being
sick-making! Not to mention mischievous. Celeborn is the essence of
power and intelligence - together with sharing his daughter's
characteristics in fair measure and so skilled in nudging people into
just exactly the positions he wants them to fill that half the time they
don't even notice! And Hrassa - well, he is perhaps one of the few who
could resist being coaxed into doing what he doesn't want to do. An elf
of principle who has the advantage of knowing Celeborn through and
through. Of course, he might end up doing Celeborn's will anyway,
because of the strength of his loyalties - but I have a feeling that it
will be Celeborn's daughter who will be able to play Hrassa like a fish
on a line. Even if he doesn't let her know that he is water in her
hands. (Could describe him better than putty, because he might just be
able to slip between her fingers!)

Then there are the other characters - Celebrimbor is charming ... don't
tell him, but he has some puppy-like qualities: for all his cleverness
he desires love and approval! And I am growing partial to all the
others, too and would love to know more about their pasts - and,
hopefully, their futures. Assuming they manage to escape the traps that
will be set them.

I thoroughly enjoy this story and am always delighted to see updates.
And one day Galadriel might even make it on-stage and we'll get to see
how she responds to Hrassa's return! I suspect she might confound them
all. And I can't wait to see Celebrian's tea-party. Wonderful.
-----------------------------------
Title: New beginnings · Author: Perelleth · Genres: Humor · ID: 815
Reviewer: Bodkin · 2006-08-15 08:17:21
This is such a gorgeous tale of frustration and decisions - and hurt and
incomprehension - with a fantastic cast of characters! And you can't
help but end up feeling sorry for everyone as they all rush round at
cross-purposes trying to understand what's going on as they jockey for
position. Well, except for Oropher. It's quite difficult to feel sorry
for Oropher here - he does need to be pinned down by Mrs Oropher and
threatened into a little good behaviour. I feel for Finarfin - Galadriel
is professional at being difficult - and Celeborn, who must be picking
up a great deal of flak between in-laws and wife. And caught between
cultures - Noldor on one side and Silvan on the other, with the Sindar
in the middle throwing up their hands. And then there are Elros and
Elrond - who is suffering from being abandoned by just about everyone he
has ever loved - but the person for whom I feel sorriest is Ereinion.
Poor kid. Scarcely older (in elven terms) than Elrond, he is struggling
to be king in the face of a host of ancient, wily, self-confident elves
all playing their own games. I hope - I hope so much that the Second Age
was very very good to him and that everything - apart from romance, I
suppose - went his way. Until the end, anyway.

Then there's the gull. She is a delight all on her own. Ingil's most
devoted admirer. Finarfin's desperate attempt to manage Olvarin and
Ingil - you had me feeling sorry for him, too. (But then - I LOVED the
return of Finrod. Finarfin deserved it - and so did Finrod. Not to
mention Earwen.

And it all worked out - sort of - in the end. Elros grew into kingship.
And Mariner-ing. And Elrond was coaxed into a role of his own, so that
he wouldn't miss his brother as much as he might have done - I was glad
to see he looked on Ereinion as family. And then there was great-uncle
Celeborn. Also known as Lord of Harlindon. Ereinion's sense of humour is
delightful. I was glad to see him settling into his role. (Probably
greatly helped by the absence of Oropher.)

This is a lovely story - I enjoyed all the twists and turns and I am so
pleased that Ereinion was left balancing carefully at the top of the
pyramid.
-----------------------------------
Title: Imrahil's Daughter · Author: Madeleine · Genres: Romance:
Lothíriel & Éomer · ID: 183
Reviewer: Bodkin · 2006-08-15 08:31:50
This takes your story arc on beautifully. I'm glad to see that Eomer
can't get the healer out of his head. The past months have been
frantically busy - and she's still niggling at him.

I like the way he interacts with others - Faramir, Elfhelm and Amrothos
are very different and he reacts differently with each: teasing Faramir
(poor man - he's not quite sure what to make of it), friends with
Elfhelm - yet in authority - able to be himself more than with any
other, and irritated by Amrothos.

The problems of Rohan are going to be very much on Eomer's mind, too.
Wars don't just end and go away - I'm glad to see the aftermath
considered. Even the aftermath of blond children being born in Minas Tirith.

Then - as soon as he sees Lothiriel. Wow. The chemistry! Something
happens as soon as these two set eyes on each other that is quite magic.
They both lose all common sense - and awareness of what is happening
around them. And matters don't - well - improve. Lothiriel can
wrong-foot Eomer with a glance. If she only knew what she was doing to
the poor man it would be cruel.

I'm not at all disconcerted to find that Imrahil knows! Not, perhaps,
exactly what is going on - (although I wouldn't be surprised) - but he
has seen the way they looked at each other and he is carefully not
asking questions! He probably started thinking of Eomer as son-in-law
material right after the Black Gate.

I love Eomer's diffidence when asking for aid - he is really quite taken
aback by Elessar, Faramir and Imrahil's instant agreement to provide as
much support as Rohan needs.

And, in spite of not needing a wife, Eomer goes straight off to carry
out the bidding of the Princess of Dol Amroth. And, if he's lucky, see
her - just, of course, so that he can express his displeasure. And the kiss!

Elfhelm, too, is a wonderful character. His story of his own courting is
informative - and he is right! Eomer can only have Lothiriel as his
wife. I wonder how long it will take him to come round to the idea.

Your Lothiriel has become the definitive Lothiriel as far as I'm
concerned. And your Eomer. Wonderful characterisation - not just
attractive, but multi-layered and rounded. Delightful part of a great
collection of stories. I just love them all.

-----------------------------------
Title: Master of Shadows · Author: Space Weavil · Genres: Drama · ID: 245
Reviewer: Marta · 2006-08-15 15:03:04
this series of ficlets used the seven deadly sins effectively, but even
without that theme the moments were powerful. Combined, they create a
convincing version of the Witch king's backstory in relatively few words.
-----------------------------------
Title: On Frozen shores · Author: ann_arien · Times: First Age and
Prior: Incomplete · ID: 490
Reviewer: Dawn Felagund · 2006-08-15 16:15:14
Alina, this is a lovely AU. What I like best about it is that the
emotion is handled very believably--I almost want to say sparingly. It
is not choked with sap and angst as one might expect from this sort of
AU (and given that I know the relationship that you develop between
Feanaro and Nolofinwe in some of your other work. >:^D ) It is
believable, an enticing first chapter that hints at much more to come. I
do hope that when RL settles down a bit for you, then you will continue it.

My favorite bit of this piece is when Nolofinwe notices the spots of
light on the horizon and suspects that he is betrayed; what a lovely
image. Also notable is his reaction to Turukano's panic; this is so
in-character for Nolofinwe, imho, and very much like one would expect a
father to behave.
-----------------------------------
Title: Birnam Wood · Author: Inkling · Times: Fourth Age and Beyond ·
ID: 917
Reviewer: Imhiriel · 2006-08-15 17:27:50
Evocative descriptions; good feeling for the atmosphere of the forest
(it truly feels like Tolkien's wild forests); elegant, fitting style.

I liked the mystery of the witch, and of Treebeard and the fact that the
boy didn't know about Ents and Huorns (but we the readers did). All the
more respect to his bravery and quick thinking when it counted!

A wonderful story, respectful and reminiscent in spirit and execution to
both of its sources. The use of "original" Westron is a clever touch to
give a feeling of the passing of time from the time of LotR to the 11th
century.
-----------------------------------
Title: Kissing is Different · Author: Lady Bluejay · Genres: Romance:
Lothíriel & Éomer · ID: 280
Reviewer: Imhiriel · 2006-08-15 17:28:40
I enjoyed this light-hearted story (despite a few technical glitches),
especially Éomer's thoughts about his trials and tribulations as the new
King and how his thoughts, ahem, stray when contemplating Lothíriel.
Loved the twist at the end.
-----------------------------------

Title: Lightly Sings the Wind · Author: Ellie · Genres: Drama: Elves in
Later Ages · ID: 799
Reviewer: Bodkin · 2006-08-16 07:21:50
This must have been such a hard time for Earwen. In some ways, I think
she might have understood Artanis's decision to stay with Celeborn
rather better than Finarfin did - after all, she left Alqualonde for
him. (Although, of course, she could visit when she wanted.) But the
knowledge of her sons' deaths - and how they died - must have been
dreadful for this elf of Aman, to whom death was a horrific rarity.

Finarfin's experience must have changed him, too. Years of experiencing
war and sending elves to their death must have helped him come to terms
with his sons' fate - but it seems unlikely that messages would have
gone back and forth between Aman and Ennor. This return would have been
the first that most heard of the fate of their kin.

Having another child is probably a good move. I think, maybe, they
rushed into it a bit, but it's not one of those decisions you can make
rationally - and, if they had taken time to think, they probably
wouldn't have done it.

And their sons will return - and so will Galadriel, in time. (It would
be interesting to see how she responded to a much younger sibling!)

I enjoyed this - and feel for both Earwen and Finarfin. And her parents,
too. (Her mother is very wise.) And everyone else, really. The Blessed
Realm must have been an entirely different place in the aftermath of the
War of Wrath.
-----------------------------------
Title: Pennies for a Sunny Day · Author: Cathleen · Times: Late Third
Age: The Shire · ID: 728
Reviewer: Bodkin · 2006-08-16 07:27:55
Pippin's sisters - and parents - could clearly do with a rest from their
youngest family member. Frogs, indeed!

Merry and Frodo regarding his visit with some trepidation doesn't
surprise me in the least! Pippin is a very wearing young hobbit! But
they manage to deal with him very well - and I'm sure they'll soon
decide they wouldn't want to be without him!

-----------------------------------
Title: A Message and a Bottle · Author: Larner · Genres: Drama:
Featuring Pippin or Merry · ID: 89
Reviewer: Bodkin · 2006-08-16 07:35:03
This is a delightful birthday custom that demonstrates real affection
between the two taking part. That the wine was good after all those
years - well, that is remarkable, but no more remarkable than hobbits.

I like the glimpse of the Valar at the end - and hope they realise that
the traffic in toy boats and bottles is likely to increase!

It is such a Pippinish thing to do - and a delight to see. I liked the
way everything is wound in with your other stories too. And I'm guessing
that Gandalf told Frodo that he wasn't to reveal anything about the
West, so that he confined himself to pictures rather than writing. A
sweet link between hobbits.

-----------------------------------
Title: Treasures And Momentos · Author: Marigold · Genres: Drama:
Featuring Pippin or Merry · ID: 220
Reviewer: Bodkin · 2006-08-16 07:37:39
I'm glad Merry and Pippin stayed together. And Merry would be obstinate
enough to remain as long as Pippin did - and then immediately follow
him. Pippin would have the courage to go first too.

Poor Aragorn. Even knowing he was likely to outlive them, this must have
been another step on his own way to leading Arwen to a non-elven fate
for which he probably always felt guilty. And Legolas was reminded again
that he was going to be the last one left standing.

Love the gifts and messages - and the brushes.

-----------------------------------
Title: Old Man Willow · Author: Jay of Lasgalen · Races: Elves:
Fixed-Length Ficlet Featuring Legolas or Thranduil · ID: 859
Reviewer: Bodkin · 2006-08-16 07:41:15
Very elfy! I love Legolas's cool handling of the power of enchantments -
and his kindness. You have me feeling sorry for Old Man Willow. To be
alone and elfless (or, I suppose, Entless) for so long must have twisted
him. Legolas's touch seems like lancing a boil to let out the evil.

-----------------------------------
Title: Kissing is Different · Author: Lady Bluejay · Genres: Romance:
Lothíriel & Éomer · ID: 280
Reviewer: Bodkin · 2006-08-16 07:43:43
Very clever, Lothiriel. How to make an impression!

Although I'm not sure she needed to be devious! As soon as he glimpsed
her loosely laced blouse and her concern for Helm made her inadvertently
show him more, he was panting to become better acquainted!

-----------------------------------
Title: In the Service of the King · Author: grey_wonderer · Times: The
Great Years: Post-Sauron's Fall · ID: 138
Reviewer: Bodkin · 2006-08-16 07:45:28
Pippin the wanderer proves to be the one whose ease of manner and
ability to get on with allcomers can encourage the people of the White
City to open their minds to the king.

Pippin and the boys scrubbing the fountain is actually a clever
high-profile way of showing everyone that the king tempers justice with
mercy and understanding - and the story about Boromir is just a massive
plus. Although I imagine that a hung-over seventeen-year-old accepted
his punishment rather more grumpily and with rather less grace.

And then there's the singing! Pippish, indeed! And Legolas's pained
expression when he congratulates himself on the graciousness of his
response to mangled Elvish. And Haldir teaching the songs in order to
penalise Legolas for the dwarf's presence. And Gimli's indignation and
the hint of revenge in his eyes. This is just one delightful incident
piled on another until the whole concoction is so rich!

The formal appointment with the King - at the same time and place as the
informal meeting with Strider - will certainly result in some allocated
play areas for children. Which is probably a good thing - as long as
they are chosen for something other than being out of the way and not
wanted by anyone else.

Splendid story. So pleased to read it.

-----------------------------------
Title: Benison · Author: annmarwalk · Genres: Drama: Remembering · ID: 67
Reviewer: Bodkin · 2006-08-16 07:52:54
I found this such a beautiful tale. And I love the title - which is, I
think, exactly the right choice of word!

The sewing basket and its treasures give such a touching point of
connection between Eowyn and Finduilas and provide an understanding that
they could have had in no other way. The drawings - and poetry - are a
real window on the past, whereas the sketch of baby Faramir is perfect.
I wonder if Eowyn will show it to him - it will do him good, I think, to
realise how much he was loved. The feminine input into life in the
Steward's family has been restored after a long and sad interlude - and
Finduilas is happier, wherever she is, because of it. It is like a
handing on of the torch! (Or needle.)
-----------------------------------
Title: A Merry Old Inn · Author: Dreamflower · Times: Late Third Age ·
ID: 881
Reviewer: Bodkin · 2006-08-16 07:56:41
How lovely to see a Bilbo and the Dwarves story!

I bet Bilbo wishes he hadn't been quite so keen to knock back those
large tankards of ale! But the visit must have been very interesting to
him. Bree, with its easy-going mixture of races, must seem very odd to
someone who had never left the Shire before. I like the fact that it is
quite egalitarian - no one race seems to subordinate another. I think it
will do its part in opening the Baggins's mind.

-----------------------------------
Title: Chance Encounter · Author: Dreamflower · Times: The Great Years:
Post-Sauron's Fall · ID: 187
Reviewer: Bodkin · 2006-08-16 08:13:56
I love Chance Encounter and feel that Menelcar is a great addition - and
very understanding bard he is, too. And experience of hobbits has just
become a great career enhancement!

Pippin and the others haven't really grasped the significance of those
guards around them - or their exalted position in the city - and how it
is partly to keep away undesirables. I am, however, very glad that
Pippin heard and met Menelcar. The bard himself is much more aware of
the analysis is those grey eyes of the young Steward - he knows he is
being checked out for suitability. But he is suitable - and talented -
and deserves the break he gets here.

What else do I love about this story? The Eowyn interlude is delightful.
The point about Eomer's youth - I like seeing the hobbits as the mature,
responsible support for those who, although taller, are so young. The
nasty trio of confidence tricksters who equate small with stupid. And
the fact that they were taken in by the youngest hobbit of all. (I'm
glad that Pippin put his foot down about the death penalty.)

I do hope Menelcar continues to appear in your stories! He has an
interesting perspective on both kings and hobbits - and his experience
of wandering must give him a bond with the Ranger who has been confined
in the city.

-----------------------------------
Title: The River · Author: Indigo Bunting · Races: Cross-Cultural:
Incomplete · ID: 51
Reviewer: Bodkin · 2006-08-16 08:19:55
This is a splendid and most exciting story - I am thoroughly enjoying
the arrival of each new chapter. The relationship Sam and Legolas
developed in the face of their captors is great - as is their strength
of mind and body and their commitment to helping each other. When they
went into the river for the second time - well, I'm just glad they all
have to be there for the coronation, that's all. (Except for poor
Boromir, who has another appointment with death.)

Merry is a hero - living by the Brandywine turned out to be a Very Good
Thing - and the fellowship is building into a team, each member of which
is vital to the survival and comfort of the others. Good thing, too,
that the hobbits are wise enough to share their worries - and their
experience with the siren call of that dratted ring. If only Boromir had
been able to do the same then maybe, just maybe...

Good story.


-----------------------------------
Title: Dawn of a New Age: First Age · Author: elliska · Times: First Age
and Prior: Incomplete · ID: 406
Reviewer: Bodkin · 2006-08-16 08:28:10
So Manarindë - what a charmer - doesn't appreciate the arrival of the
moon, then? Glad to see that a certain elleth with the characteristics
of a swan with sable plumage was just as good-natured and lovable in the
First Age, even at the point when the Noldor have only just arrived in
Middle-earth.

And just imagine being able to look up at the moon and say 'I know him'.
And, come to that, to be able, without any apparent effort, to raise and
maintain a barrier that keeps the baddies at bay. Melian packs some
serious power - although I'm not entirely sure that she has much of a
real understanding of elves. Except the general gorgeousness of Elu, of
course.

The battle was remarkable. Did you have battle plans, to see where
everyone was and what they were doing as you planned it out? I'm glad to
see that Oropher's impetuous side is already firmly in place - and his
competitiveness with Amglaur. In fact you could say that 'impetuous'
seems to be a bit of a family trait - one to which Denethor was not immune.

I love this - it's great to see the back story to lots of the
Interrupted Journeys characters and to get to meet those whose presence,
by the Third Age, is sadly missed. I am keeping my fingers crossed that
the story will continue soon!

-----------------------------------
Title: To Become A Queen · Author: Madeleine · Genres: Romance:
Lothíriel & Éomer · ID: 157
Reviewer: obsidianj · 2006-08-16 17:27:59
Lothíriel is on her way to Rohan to wed Éomer King accompanied by her
whole family. Meeting Éomer again after being apart for 9 months, sets
some of her insecurities to rest. She is still drawn to him and he seems
still drawn to her. She desperately wants to talk to Éomer in private,
asking him all the questions burning on her mind about the why of her
betrothal. Éomer has his own doubts about Lothíriels motives, but the
princes of Dol Amroth are in top form safeguarding their sister until
the wedding. Especially Amrothos gets marks for always showing up at the
right place at the right time or the wrong place at the wrong time
depending on the pov. Even as her favorite brother, his beloved sister
comes to wish him harm -- slightly.

Again the author excels in writing humorous dialogue between the main
protagonists. I love the discussion during the wedding night about the
differences between the mating rituals of turtles, sorry, giant
tortoises and human lovemaking. Éomer has to do one mental somersault
after the other to keep up with his wifes reasoning.

The part where Eomer admits to himself why he is marrying Lothiriel is
very touching.

Another of my favorite scenes is Éomer's rather unorthodox method to
convince Éothain to agree to Lothíriel performing surgery on him by
knocking him out. When Lothiriel questions this action, Aragorn and her
father assure her that they agree with Eomer and that this act was
completely reasonable.

The characters in this story come to life and are well developed.
Madeleines Lothiriel is a mixture of innocence, intelligence and
pragmatism which will come handy once she has to be Queen along her
husband as King.

-----------------------------------
Title: The Groomsman · Author: Elen Kortirion · Races: Dwarves:
Fixed-Length Ficlet · ID: 44
Reviewer: obsidianj · 2006-08-16 17:28:19
Who would have thought. Gimli doesn't loose his head and knows what to
do. I like it that he does Boromir the honor of readying him for his
last voyage.
-----------------------------------
Title: Ignorance Is Bliss · Author: Eggo Waffles · Genres: Humor: Parody
· ID: 754
Reviewer: obsidianj · 2006-08-16 17:28:57
This piece is hilarious. Poor Faramir and Boromir. Having to read
through all the drivel. I loved the criterion for finding the true
scroll [It has lots of words. Lots. And theyre all spelled
correctly.] I'm still giggling. I never realized that most of the
Faramir/Boromir stories can be so neatly filed into these categories ;-).
-----------------------------------
Title: Hewing Naught But Wood · Author: Thundera Tiger · Genres: Humor:
Parody · ID: 825
Reviewer: obsidianj · 2006-08-16 17:29:26
LOL! This piece is very funny. Poor Eomer has to listen to the debate
about semantics in the middle of a battle. But I have to say I have seen
discussions like this on mailing lists. And this one at least had an
amicable ending without erupting into a war on its own.
-----------------------------------
Title: A Matter of Honor · Author: meckinock · Races: Cross-Cultural:
Incomplete · ID: 208
Reviewer: obsidianj · 2006-08-16 17:30:30
This is a great story. You paint such a vivid picture of the landscape
and the people. The characters come to life and I love the relationship
you develop between Halbarad and Aragorn. I especially like the
characterization of Gandalf in the early parts of the story. In this
story he seems more of a person than just the wizard spouting off sage
advice. I hope he shows up again.

There are intesting bits of the life of the Dunedain sprinkled between
the main plot of the story. Your Dunlendings seem to be varied in their
customs, too, and not just simply the bad guys.

I think the balance between narration and dialogue is just right.
Necessary exposition is embedded between the action so that it doesn't
get boring or feels force fed. I love the humor in this story. For me it
is just the right mixture. It lightens the mood, so that it doesn't get
too serious, but it doesn't get into silly slapstick.


-----------------------------------
Title: A Battle Of A Different Kind · Author: Katzilla · Genres: Drama:
Pre-Fellowship · ID: 279
Reviewer: obsidianj · 2006-08-16 17:31:06
This is an interesting little scene. I never thought of Eowyn and Eomer
fighting a duel. But it rings true. I could see them doing that. Eowyn
fighting for her right to go with the men, and Eomer desperately trying
to convince her otherwise. I can see both of their points of view, and I
can't think they can come to a solution which suits both of them. Eowyn
wants to 'do' something, not just fight battles with words. She is
between a rock and a hard place and there is no way out of it.
-----------------------------------
Title: Ring Thoughts · Author: Nesta · Times: The Great Years · ID: 190
Reviewer: Imhiriel · 2006-08-16 18:15:59
The Ring has a believably sly, smug voice (the modernisms didn't jar
overmuch). His running commentary on the Fellowship (and those they
encounter) are darkly humorous and highly entertaining, as is the way he
works on his potential victims and insinuatingly talks to them.
Loved the unusual perspective of the Ring on Faramir - nope, no chance
there *g*!
-----------------------------------
Title: Gondor Needs No King · Author: Ribby · Times: The Great Years:
Gondor Fixed-Length Ficlets · ID: 207
Reviewer: Imhiriel · 2006-08-16 18:16:55
The beginning and ending line suggest further horror beyond the
spotlight of the drabble. The detached, cynical narrative voice, laden
with double-meanings, adds to the chilly, uncanny atmosphere.

-----------------------------------
Title: Another Man's Cage · Author: Dawn Felagund · Genres: Drama · ID: 136
Reviewer: Imhiriel · 2006-08-16 18:17:45
Evocative, rich and well-told (although I have a few quibbles, e.g.
regarding modernisms); intense and moving. Very strong characterisations
- each of the characters is distinct, three-dimensional and vividly
realised. Lovingly detailed descriptions of the various settings that
bring them vividly to life in the readers' imagination.

You show convincingly how the Fëanorians are more than just this
collective, how each one has his own individual strengths, faults,
obsessions, fears and dreams. How hard and awkward it can be with the
constant pressure of living up to the example of Fëanor and the
competition among the brothers.

You skilfully show where the faultlines are starting to appear within
the immediate family as well as in relation to others (the half-family,
the Valar) that will be so fateful later on.

The little hints of foreshadowing are a clever touch that add to the
slightly uneasy, tense atmosphere.
-----------------------------------
Title: Recalled To Life - Alqualonde · Author: AWing · Races: Elves:
Feanorians · ID: 787
Reviewer: Imhiriel · 2006-08-16 18:25:18
The story is told in a quiet tone that seems fitting to the subject.

Beautifully detailed description of Alqualondë that brings the city
vividly to life, and the flashes of the past in their contrasting images
add poignancy.

All the different, conflicting emotions felt by all of the characters
concerned are sketched and given due weight, without getting sentimental.

I particularly appreciate the fact that forgiveness comes not
immediately, not easily, and when it does, it is because of the highly
symbolic Silmaril up in the Heaven for all to see - here once again
"Gil-Estel" - and through a song in whose creation both kindreds had
their part.
-----------------------------------
Title: Wishing On The Stars · Author: Marigold · Times: The Great Years:
General Fixed-Length Ficlets · ID: 116
Reviewer: Bodkin · 2006-08-16 18:26:49
This is such a delightful story - I love the link between Eglantine and
the stars - and her unwitting recognition of the link between them and
Pippin's wellbeing. And then there is the return of the Shining Hero to
the Smials. What a moment of joy for her. Not to mention a relief!
-----------------------------------
Title: Antiphon to Light · Author: Thevina Finduilas · Races: Dwarves ·
ID: 155
Reviewer: Imhiriel · 2006-08-16 18:30:52
Elegant style, very good descriptions of the beautiful but slightly
uncanny Golden Wood.

Gimli's character and voice are captured very well: he is gruff,
passionate, suspicious, honest. The story brings alive the moment of and
reason for his impassioned admiration of Galadriel.

I also very much liked how you showed how he, a dwarf, can and does see
and acknowledge beauty.

This encapsulates his thoughts very well, I find: ["Gimli was convinced
more than ever that the whole land here was enchanted; what astonished
him was that he cared not a whit."]

-----------------------------------
Title: A Tisket, A Tasket · Author: grey_wonderer · Times: Late Third
Age: The Shire · ID: 570
Reviewer: Bodkin · 2006-08-16 18:38:08
This is such a delightful story.

I must confess Errol has taken on a tremendous personality (are you sure
he's not a canon character?) Stories in which he features do tend to be
extremely entertaining. And this is such a sweet story. The only thing
that surprises me is that Errol only produced one baby. I could have
sworn he would have ended up with three. Which would have given Bilbo's
words on the potential of rabbit reproduction even more force!

Mind you the tales about Frodo and the baths and Merry and the squirrels
are delightful, too. Shame there's no-one old enough to know just what
Bilbo was like at the same age.

Very enjoyable!

-----------------------------------