Yahoo Forum Archive

Title: In Frodo's Hands · Author: Mews1945 · Races: Hobbits: Pre-Quest ·
ID: 62
Reviewer: Lindelea · 2006-11-30 18:49:11 Score: 2
This is such a lovely getting-acquainted story! Frodo is just as I'd
imagine him, and it is no wonder that Pippin grew to love him and wished
to follow him into the unknown.
-----------------------------------
Title: The Golden Mask · Author: kwannom · Races: Men: Incomplete · ID: 670
Reviewer: Trekqueen · 2006-11-30 18:49:28 Score: 4
This is a great mixture of movie and film -verse while keeping the
characters interesting with a great blend of emotion and interaction. I
love that you are telling the story of Haleth since very few people
write Second Age let alone about the tribes of Men. Time and patience is
put into this story and is prevalent with the tedious task of writing it
just right with the pace and plot. The fact English is not your first
language is amazing with your grasp of the language and ability to tell
the story fully and beautifully.
-----------------------------------
Title: A Healer's Tale · Author: Lindelea · Races: Hobbits · ID: 861
Reviewer: Elena Tiriel · 2006-11-30 18:52:15 Score: 6
I had never been all that interested in stories about Hobbits and the
Shire, until I discovered those written by Lindelea... and I think that
A Healer's Tale is my favorite so far (and I've read all of them).

This story has two timelines, the past and the present, that are
skilfully interwoven in alternate chapters. It is about an original
female hobbit, a healer called Woodruff (or Sweetie), who comes to work
as an apprentice healer for the Took clan on the same day that Pippin is
born, and later becomes the chief healer for the Tooks.

Lindelea makes each of her characters seem real and unique, and her
storylines are always interesting. In this tale, almost all of Sweetie's
life is followed, from an abusive mistress taking advantage of an orphan
to a rich and fulfilling life as a well-respected and well-loved healer.
I've read the story two or three times, and enjoyed it each time.

-----------------------------------
Title: Finding the Right Words · Author: Nienor Niniel · Races: Men:
Post-Sauron's Fall · ID: 785
Reviewer: Lindelea · 2006-11-30 18:52:15 Score: 3
Wonderfully drawn picture and good characterisation of Faramir, sounding
just as I've imagined him. I like that he makes his peace with his
father, and the vision of the kings and stewards is a perfect device for
this gap-filler.
-----------------------------------
Title: Young Master Merry · Author: Pearl Took · Races: Hobbits: Poetry
· ID: 666
Reviewer: Lindelea · 2006-11-30 18:53:50 Score: 2
This was delightful, subtly horrifying (I have a horror of spiders) and
provoked a chuckle in the ending. Nicely done!
-----------------------------------
Title: A Spring Day At Cormallen · Author: Marigold · Races:
Cross-Cultural: With Hobbits · ID: 746
Reviewer: Llinos · 2006-11-30 18:54:48 Score: 10
Marigold's stories are generally upbeat and positive and give a warm
glow and this is no exception.

Told, in an original stance for this writer, from Aragorn's point of
view, we see the four cousins together indulging in a pastime that
children of all ages from eight to eighty have enjoyed for centuries.

I like the way she does not reveal until close to the end exactly what
the hobbits are up to, although she very gradually drops more and more
hints, cleverly interwoven in Aragorn's observations of what they are doing.

Aragorn's care and concern for the hobbits is evident in this story as
is the loving attention lavished on Pippin by the other three.

I particularly liked the stark beginning, ["He should not be alive."] as
this focuses the attention abruptly and draws the reader in, as it is
not immediately evident who should not be alive.

I also liked very much the slow revelation of why Aragorn would have
thought that of Pippin, a subject woefully neglected by the Professor
himself! This scenario is actually borrowed from Baylor's "Fate and the
King's High Falcon", but even if you have not read that story (where
have you been!) this still stands nicely on its own.

Overall, the vignette is satisfyingly happy with much of warmth and joy
as one might expect from this extremely competent hobbit writer!

-----------------------------------
Title: First Night · Author: Pearl Took · Races: Hobbits: War of the
Ring · ID: 400
Reviewer: Lindelea · 2006-11-30 18:56:54 Score: 3
So very skillfully done, like all this author's efforts that I have
read, evoking memory and emotion by touching on all the senses. The
sense of smell is masterfully used in weaving dream with memory and
reality, and there is a balance to the story, delicately wrought, only
fully realised by the reader in the concluding line. MEWD, Pearl.
-----------------------------------
Title: Gandalf returned · Author: Rabidsamfan · Genres: Drama: General
Fixed-Length Ficlet · ID: 990
Reviewer: Lindelea · 2006-11-30 18:59:26 Score: 1
This author writes poetic prose, packing so very much meaning into an
economy of words.
-----------------------------------
Title: Shattered Twilight · Author: Rhapsody · Genres: Drama: First Age
Elves · ID: 247
Reviewer: Trekqueen · 2006-11-30 19:03:10 Score: 5
As you know, I absolutely love this ficlet and the strength of emotions
from Maeglin. First it starts off with the innocence of youth and
childhood dreams from the stories of Aredhel told her son but also set
the stage of an unhealthy love that develops as the story continues just
as time passes. The reminiscing of his wants truly shows the selfishness
Maeglin had for his actions that led to his death as well as to those of
the others who perished in the Fall of Gondolin. All he wants is his
Idril and nothing else comforts him in death but his obsession. Bravo!
-----------------------------------
Title: Sweet Woodbine · Author: Bodkin · Times: Fourth Age and Beyond ·
ID: 864
Reviewer: Elena Tiriel · 2006-11-30 19:11:02 Score: 5
Bodkin writes of familiar Elves from Middle-earth after they have sailed
to the Undying Lands and established themselves there. Her characters
are complex, and their interactions are always interesting.

This story follows the journey of Legolas from drifting newcomer to lord
of his people, and also traces the very slow growth of his relationship
with Elerinna, the elleth whom he -- eventually -- weds. I am not a huge
lover of romances, but this story has much to do with politics and
diplomacy, so it is not merely a romance -- though it does have a most
satisfying ending.

I have re-read this story several times, whenever I needed something to
cheer me up, and I have enjoyed it every single time. Nice work, Bodkin!
-----------------------------------
Title: ...and I will follow you, my Captain · Author: Robinka · Times:
The Great Years · ID: 248
Reviewer: Trekqueen · 2006-11-30 19:12:35 Score: 4
Telling and beautiful. The words and imagery tell of the horrible event
surrounding him.... his emotions are amazing but how he still holds on
to life. I absolutely love the telling of this fate... he may have
seemed dead to Aragorn but the fear of being alone in that terrible
place while the battle still raged gives me shivers... especially since
the Elves knew how the orcs may treat the dead of their enemies. At
least he did not suffer but was peaceful at the end of the piece. Wonderful!
-----------------------------------
Title: A Change In The Weather · Author: Marigold · Races: Hobbits:
Fixed-Length Ficlet series · ID: 692
Reviewer: Llinos · 2006-11-30 19:20:24 Score: 10
Another delightful set of drabbles from Marigold, this quartet allies
each of the hobbits to a season.

Each starts on a positive note, showing how all of the four favoured one
particular season and what they liked about them, but then becomes
darker as their earlier happy lives are swallowed up by the Quest.

Marigold explains, very plausibly, why Frodo enjoyed Autumn. The
different voices of the wind would either lure him to go adventuring
across the Shire or stay in front of the fire with a book. But, in a
sudden twist, the wind is now his enemy. Nevertheless, there is an
upbeat ending as we see him striding relentlessly forward on his
perilous Quest.

The heat of Summer is for Sam and this is, of course, an excellent
choice as he sees his labours burst into flower and dabbles his toes in
The Water. The stark contrast brings us to the end of all things and now
the heat is no friend as he waits for the volcano to do its worst.

Merry loves the Winter and delights in the sudden and non-threatening
snowfalls in the Shire. Just like children enjoy an unexpected covering
of snow and the prospect of games and frolic, we now see the adult side
of Meriadoc when faced with the grim reality of snow on Caradhras.

So for Pippin it must be the Spring. Ah Marigold would save this most
delightful season for the youngest, and most appropriate it is too.
Although, surprisingly, it is the Spring showers which please him the
most. But not just that, she goes on to encompass the rain of all four
seasons in Pippin. However, on the Quest the rain becomes his enemy for
when there is no escape from the deluge, there is no pleasure left in
its arrival.

A well put together set, with plenty of stark contrasts which validate
the poetry like quality of this well written quartet. Well done!

-----------------------------------
Title: Eternal · Author: Trekqueen · Genres: Romance: Incomplete · ID: 706
Reviewer: Talasi · 2006-11-30 19:53:13 Score: 6
I have been following this story for a long time and it is truly an
incredible peice of work!! It is wonderful to read a great Sil fic. Your
grasp of the language and the history is clearly evident. You really did
your homework!!! I know I have fallen off the map for a while, but I
will definitely continue reading!! Your attention to detail keeps
pulling me back into Tolkien's world.

I love reading a fic by someone who really grasps the whole history of
the Sil, not just bits here and there. I am reading the Sil now, and I
find myself often noting where you were spot on and how beautifully you
tie events and people together.

Of course, the romantic drama gets me too. I'm a sucker for Glorfindel!
Please keep writing. This expression is good for the mind (and for me).

[Talasi]
-----------------------------------
Title: Merry Yules · Author: Marigold · Races: Hobbits: Fixed-Length
Ficlet series · ID: 114
Reviewer: Llinos · 2006-11-30 20:08:06 Score: 10
Double drabbles from Marigold here and a veritable feast, with 14 First
Yules to enjoy!

She shrewdly places them in chronological order, although we do not see
each one, which happily leaves her room to revisit later. We do however
learn that, in this universe, Pippin has danced with Merry on every
First Yule except his first.

Each one is filled with delights and joyful memories, from S.R. 1391,
when Merry is 9 and Pippin 1 (Marigold is a stickler for canon where
dates and distances are concerned) through to post-Quest S.R. 1419, when
Merry is 37 and Pippin is 29.

Again Marigold seizes upon a chance real life event and weaves it into
her own. The second drabble was inspired by an old tape recording I
found of my daughter, not yet verbal, lalala-ing along to me singing a
nursery rhyme. I think Marigold's ability to do this adds considerably
to the plausibility of her writing.

There are some darker sides to this series, although they are mostly
quite subtlety delivered. Without even mentioning who they are talking
about, Merry notices the changes that have come over his older cousin
and, knowing that Frodo is harbouring some deep anxiety, fears for him.
In addition there is the First Yule that is passed while they are on The
Quest, although this ends on a positive note as Pippin draws a cold and
melancholy Merry into their traditional annual dance.

There are many lovely moments in these drabbles, far too many to mention
here. Just to say, that Merry and Pippin are wonderfully drawn, as we
observe their passage from innocent childhood, to exuberant teens and
tweens and finally worldly-wise adults, who have survived more than any
ordinary hobbit could imagine.

-----------------------------------
Title: By The Light of Earendil's Star · Author: Branwyn · Genres:
Adventure · ID: 83
Reviewer: Anoriath · 2006-11-30 20:13:39 Score: 10
I think it is hard enough to create a fully developed character, but, in
fanfic, one of the most difficult challenges of writing is creating an
other-character who can stand up to the strength of Tolkiens
characters. Not only do we have three volumes of work in which Tolkiens
characters live and breathe, but our readers have years of experience
reflecting on and living with them. Quite the challenge, then, to put
your own characters side by side and interacting with them.

So, when a fanfic author is able to create lively characters that stand
up well against Tolkiens characters, it makes for a particularly
enjoyable experience. Of all the things I liked about this piece, I
think you were particularly successful in developing Haldan and Eldahil
into characters that were full-rounded and believable within their
context. Not only that, but they were truly unique. Haldan was in danger
of being a stock-character. Yes, yes, an old campaigner assigned to the
young and hot-blooded Boromir, but, despite the danger, you never let
him falter and become merely a mirror by which to reflect Boromirs
actions. And then Eldahil! *snork* Oh, my. Now there is a wonderfully
unique other-male-character in fanfic. A fop, of all things! Not
something Ive really seen before in fanfic and played delightfully
well, in that you, again, did not allow him to become a stereotype of
his most relevant characteristics.
-----------------------------------
Title: The Fords of Isen · Author: Branwyn · Genres: Adventure · ID: 41
Reviewer: Anoriath · 2006-11-30 20:15:08 Score: 10
One of the many things that I particularly enjoy about Tolkiens work is
his use of parallels. He draws people and events into alignment through
subtle uses of images and word choice and its through the comparison
and contrast of these parallel things that much of his deeper themes
come to light. Quite often, characters who are strongly parallel are
never portrayed as coming into contact with one another, and yet, there
is this strong undercurrent of a relationship between them. Theodred and
Boromir are just such a pair. Sons of the rulers of their respective
lands, warriors, fiercely loyal to their kin and lands, and dead within
days of each other, their relationship is fertile ground.

I love the ease of the relationship you have portrayed, here. They are
mens men, masters of their craft and share each others enthusiasms.
The joy with which they attack the orcs gives the sense that they have
been released from their most immediate earthly concerns but the fierce
fire of their loyalty and determination to oppose the Enemy still drives
them. And so the opportunity to fulfill that purpose brings them joy.

I also especially like how youve embedded the story within a story,
giving it the ring of myth and forcing the reader to draw conclusions
about the two men based only upon a third partys observations.
-----------------------------------
Title: Concerning Hobbit's Feet · Author: grey_wonderer · Genres: Humor:
The Shire · ID: 828
Reviewer: Llinos · 2006-11-30 20:32:00 Score: 3
I loved the characterisations here, and the way that the humour of the
story builds to the perfect ending! It is somewhat naughty, but then
what else would you expect from naughty little hobbits?
-----------------------------------
Title: Demand and You Shall Receive · Author: grey_wonderer · Genres:
Humor: Children · ID: 159
Reviewer: Llinos · 2006-11-30 20:32:38 Score: 3
Pippin is every inch the mischievous Took here. Merry's wisdom when it
comes to his baby cousin is just delightful, and I really enjoyed
Frodo's slow realisation that Merry knows what he is talking about. The
more serious ending was a perfect touch.
-----------------------------------
Title: In a Tent Somewhere Near Whitwell or The Truth About Merry ·
Author: grey_wonderer · Genres: Humor: The Shire · ID: 472
Reviewer: Llinos · 2006-11-30 20:33:25 Score: 3
The number of euphemisms in this story is just staggering, and everyone
of them delivered spot-on perfect! I loved the way that all three
cousins were portrayed here. Even in such a comedy of errors they still
maintained their proper voices, not easy with this highly original plot
line.
-----------------------------------
Title: Inside Out · Author: grey_wonderer · Genres: Humor: The Shire ·
ID: 636
Reviewer: Llinos · 2006-11-30 20:33:51 Score: 2
The situations that GW thinks up to put her hobbits in are always a
delight. I really enjoyed this!
-----------------------------------
Title: The Falcon and the Star · Author: Raksha the Demon · Times: The
Great Years: Gondor · ID: 57
Reviewer: stefaniab · 2006-11-30 20:57:39 Score: 10
What a treat to review "The Falcon and the Star" as one of my last
stories for the MEFA competition. Raksha is one of the most successful
writers in Tolkien's style that I have encountered in my short
experience in our fanfiction community. I particularly enjoy her use of
the first person perspective here. The beauty of the language she
employs is really affective in creating Faramir's fever dream, stream of
conscious reflection in the Prologue.

But "The Falcon and the Star' is really Aragorn's show. In the remaining
chapters, Raksha's Aragorn is confident and strong, very much the
Dunadan of the book. He has been fighting for his kingship for decades
but does not want to present himself as king to the people of Minas
Tirith unless he triumphs at the Black Gate. How can you not admire such
a character?

Raksha has Aragorn enter the landscape of Faramir's Black Breath-induced
delirium and pull the faltering Steward out of the dream that would
ultimately kill him. The dreamscape that Raksha weaves with her
evocative language is the highlight of the story.

Though Raksha likes to call herself an avowed Faramirist, I applaud her
characterization of Aragorn in "The Falcon and the Star." I did get a
kick out of the mention of Faramir's ability to wield the strongest bow
in Gondor. I suspect that Raksha won't mind that I pictured the bows
created by the prop builders for Faramir and his men in the LOTR films.

Many folks have already lauded "The Falcon and the Star." I am happy to
add my review to that list.
-----------------------------------
Title: Both Beholden · Author: Dwimordene · Genres: Drama:
Pre-Fellowship · ID: 180
Reviewer: Anoriath · 2006-11-30 21:00:19 Score: 10
I don't think I would have ever thought to throw Halbard and Boromir
together, and yet doing so is wonderfully fruitful. Ah, the subtleties
of their thrust and parry!

Halbarad is such an enigma in LOTR. Here we have been given Aragorn, in
face grim and manner most often stern, and yet we know him for a man of
depth of attachment and warmth of feeling when it is deserved. And yet,
ony for Halbarad does Aragorn lose all restraint and run across the
field of Rohan and grab the man up in a fierce embrace! Who is this
Halbarad?

It is always interesting to see what different authors bring to their
perception of the people and relationships in LOTR. I've seen Halbarads
with feet of clay, Halbarads who are Aragorn's strong-man, and Halbarads
who are loyal to the end. But this Halbarad. Ah! This is a man of deep
intelligence and wide scope of thought. So interesting that Boromir
underestimates his cunning, as does, I think, the reader.

It is not often that we are given a Halbarad who could be as comfortable
in the role of statesman as he is wandering the Wilds of Eriador. Very
clever of you to take advantage of that, so that Boromir's reveal is
experienced at the same time by the reader. I had to pause after reading
Boromir's flash of insight to let the implications sink in. A delightful
experience to have understanding expanded in that manner. It's like
opening a familiar door, thinking you fully knew the room that lay
beyond, only to find a whole new world of possibilities behind it.
That's a lovely gift to your readers.
-----------------------------------
Title: Castle · Author: Timmy2222 · Races: Men: Post-Sauron's Fall · ID: 256
Reviewer: stefaniab · 2006-11-30 21:01:00 Score: 6
Castle is an intriguing story with a damp, Gothic feel to it. True to
its reputation, it has angst galore. The Castle itself has a dank,
brooding feeling, evoking, for me, the medieval castles of mythical
Eastern European countries.

Timmy is not a native speaker of English, which sometimes shows through
with odd choices of words and grammar structure. Though I would
recommend a going through of Castle by a friendly English-speaking
editor, the sometimes strange word choices add to the eeriness of the
tale. The occasionally somewhat off-balance sentence structures seem to
enhance the confused, lack of comprehension of the story's main
character, the ten year urchin Vlohiri. A trully thorough English edit
might make the story less gripping and evocative.
-----------------------------------
Title: Autumn Hunter · Author: Rhapsody · Genres: Romance: Fixed-length
ficlet · ID: 353
Reviewer: Alassante · 2006-11-30 21:12:34 Score: 10
Part of the reason I love this fic is purely selfish. It was written by
my request. But that is only *part* of the reason I love it. Celegorm,
otherwise known as the hasty riser, being the main character of any
fiction is also a good reason to enjoy it. Hello? Hes naked in it and
getting a bath  w00t!  more reason to love it. Feanors third son is
often overlooked as anything but a hot head which certainly does fit but
hotheads are that way because of the passion inside them which can be
quite a good thing under the right circumstances. This drabble shows his
sexy side  he is Celegorm the Fair, after all. He deserves to be
written steamy and sexy. And oh my, Rhapsody certainly does write him
well. You can tell her love, and lust, for this Feanorian in the rich
details of his description.

["leaving me in silent awe of his naked glory "
"his muscles ripple smoothly under his skin"
"finely muscular back, trained by years of archery"]

He is so manly and oozes sex appeal with every movement of his body. I
can almost see it from her description. And you can feel the tension
between the female and him, the sense of possession in her heart and mind.

The un-indentified female could easily be the reader and you cannot help
but fantasize that it is you. Very erotic in such a few words...she has
outdone herself. Well done and feel free to bathe Celegorm with words as
often as you desire. I'll absorb every word.
-----------------------------------
Title: Strike While the Iron is Hot · Author: grey_wonderer · Genres:
Humor: The Shire · ID: 234
Reviewer: Llinos · 2006-11-30 21:34:40 Score: 2
Oh the plotting and subterfuge! Very ingenious story and nicely in
character, I liked that Saradoc finally put his foot down! Good ending!
-----------------------------------
Title: Of Squirrels and Stolen Pies · Author: grey_wonderer · Genres:
Humor: Children · ID: 305
Reviewer: Llinos · 2006-11-30 21:35:19 Score: 3
Pippin really does have the luck of the Tooks! His dialogue was very
funny and appropriately confusing. I enjoyed Merry in this gem of a
story very much as well. That Pippin was allowed to keep the pie for
himself, at least until Merry gets hold of it, was the perfect ending.
-----------------------------------
Title: Paper · Author: Dawn Felagund · Races: Elves: Feanorians · ID: 492
Reviewer: Gandalfs apprentice · 2006-11-30 21:45:28 Score: 4
I first opened this story when it was in for review at HASA, and was
rather dubious about whether I would like it: First Age Elves is usually
not my thing. But Dawn quite won me over with her intense POV, deeply
emotional with more than a tinge of everyday life. Remarkable to write
convincingly of Valinor in such terms. I have not read any other of her
stories, but am looking forward to the day I have the time to do so!
-----------------------------------
Title: The Roots of the Ivy · Author: Aranel Took · Genres: Alternate
Universe: Post-Grey Havens · ID: 118
Reviewer: Llinos · 2006-11-30 22:01:30 Score: 8
In spite of the eponymous OC, there are plenty of canon characters here
to enjoy, chiefly Merry and, of course, Pippin.

The title is cleverly based on Merry's choice of name for his and
Éowyn's illegitimate daughter, believably conceived in their comforting
of each other on the night before battle. He claims that, Ivy flourishes
wherever it puts down roots, an old Shire saying apparently. They both
hoped it would prove true for their daughter as well.

Merry agrees to raise Ivy, as she would have stuck out like a sore thumb
in Gondor or Ithilien and does so, with Pippin's help.

There is very much joy to be found in Ivy's early days and the hobbits
take her to their hearts from the beginning, for Ivy is certainly not
without her charms. Visiting her Mother's people also has plenty of
happy moments as friendships are formed.

It is mostly in matters of the heart that Ivy would seem to be a
problem, but an amicable solution is eventually reached. You will need
to read up to almost 100 chapters to find it though, but it is well
worth the effort.
-----------------------------------
Title: Eternal · Author: Trekqueen · Genres: Romance: Incomplete · ID: 706
Reviewer: kwannom · 2006-11-30 22:14:08 Score: 10
One thing that captured my interest while reading this story was the
period when it is set and what this encompass: Valinor, the banishment
of Fëanor, the first contact between Elves and Middle Earth, the
foundation of the first Elven cities until the creation of the most
fantastic city of them all: Gondolin.

The characters are very well written and the details regarding the Elven
customs are amazing. Another thing that is decisive for capturing the
reader's interest in this story is the point where the POV changes from
the Original Female Character to Glorfindel. This changing sets this
magnificent work apart from ordinary stories about the Elleth who falls
in love with the Elf and they live happily ever after. Not here. We can
see war through Glorfindel's eyes, his views of his duties and of the
world that surrounds him.

Reading about characters that do not appear very often in fanfiction is
also a plus. It is not every time we can read about Turgon, Idril and
Aredhel, for example. Everything is written in a way that it makes the
reader feel as if all this characters were alive, so complex are their
personalities and actions.

We all know how this story is going to end, but the unique way of
retelling the events that will lead to the final chapter are worthy all
of the sorrow the end will bring. Brava!
-----------------------------------
Title: To The King! · Author: Ithil-Valon · Times: Multi-Age: Incomplete
· ID: 848
Reviewer: Linda Hoyland · 2006-11-30 22:18:47 Score: 3
An enjoyable and exciting tale of Eomer's early days as king of Rohan.As
a book fan, I would have enjoyed it better were it canon and bookverse,
but I found it a good read.I thought the OCs,especially the children
were very well portrayed.
-----------------------------------
Title: The Still Point · Author: stultiloquentia · Times: The Great
Years: Gondor · ID: 87
Reviewer: Linda Hoyland · 2006-11-30 22:48:40 Score: 2
A tender,moving and tastefully written account of Aragorn and Arwen's
wedding night, which masterfully conveys the depth of their mutual love.
-----------------------------------
Title: House of Finwë · Author: Ghettoelleth · Times: First Age and
Prior: Incomplete · ID: 100
Reviewer: Oshun · 2006-11-30 23:46:03 Score: 10
Wow, Ghettoelleth this is truly an amazing piece of work. I would be
thrilled to death if this was the only fanrfic I ever wrote in my life.
You ahave really crawled inside of the skin of each and everyone of
these incredibly complex and amazing characters. I feel terrible that I
am unable to write you the review that you deserve on this. It has been
on my review list since early on and I have not written the review,
primarily because I didn't think I could easily express how deeply it
affected me. Now I am minutes away from the deadline and it is still
unwritten! It is an amazing tour de force.

To start, the one which affected me most deeply that Feanor one.

[I, Curufinwë, am High King, firstborn son of Finwë, and mightiest
amongst the Noldor. Broken but not humbled, my fire yet burns bright,
consuming me as I lie dying upon the tainted land. Leave no trace of me
to lie sullied 'neath this earth, poisoned by the essence of my enemy.
Let the fire of my loathing consume this hollow shell once I am
departed. Let the winds bear my ashes to the heavens to dwell amongst
the stars of Kemenatári. Recall me not with false words of kindness, but
instead, remember with integrity, Fëanor, architect of your greatest
renown.]

Truly worthy of the character, who to me will always be Tolkien's most
amazing creation. One writer compared him to Prometheus. (Sorry I am
rambling!)

I am awed by the talent and perception when I read these and I have read
each several time. Maglor's is magnificent. He is so much bigger than
the fanon version of a wistful musician and you have captured that here.
I may not agree 100% with your description of Maedhros. I might have put
a slightly different slant on him, but you sell you point of view so
convincingly. I do believe there must, however, have been an element of
jubilation. On a very real level, he finally did succeed in fulfilling
that dreadful oath and I do believe that Fëanor's spirit would be most
strongly reflected in his oldest (and probably favorite son). The
drabble of Caranthir is hauntingly painful and beautiful.

Finwë is profoundly moving and adding in the voice of Miriel does fit
strongly with a personal view I have held of him. The thing about
Tolkien, particularly in the Silmarillion is while he gives many, many
clues to characterization, there is a certain minimalism that allows
each writer to draw their own conclusions and follow their own logic. I
find your logic compelling in this particular segment.

The entire series contains such magnificence and passion, tragedy and
yet, at least for me, never pity for these characters. They hold onto to
the quality of mythic, bigger life, seething each with powerful emotion
and strength even in their final moments. It really pulls me in thoughts
of how the stories of these flawed and wonderful characters is the
foundation, the bedrock upon which every the whole mythology of Tolkien
is based. If one doesn't read and think about these characters, one
basically misses the point of it all. Sorry to babble on and on and say
so little. It is very difficult to concrete at this point for me. Never
should have waited so long to think about how I would express how I was
affected by these pieces. Can't wait to read more of what you have
written--I just so recently discovered your work.

-----------------------------------
Title: A Spring Day At Cormallen · Author: Marigold · Races:
Cross-Cultural: With Hobbits · ID: 746
Reviewer: Linda Hoyland · 2006-11-30 23:50:27 Score: 3
I like the image of Pippin flying a kite as he recovers,while Aragorn
looks on and reflects on his amazing recovery. A touching little
story,reflecting on Aragorn's love and respect for his small friend.
-----------------------------------
Title: Shattered Twilight · Author: Rhapsody · Genres: Drama: First Age
Elves · ID: 247
Reviewer: Alassante · 2006-11-30 23:50:31 Score: 7
Maeglin is such a complex character. On one hand he betrayed the elves
of Gondolin and caused countless deaths but on the other hand, he had
such a horribly life with his father, Eol. Then seeing his mother
murdered before him, falling in love with his cousin only to lose her to
a man, a lowly second born in his mind. Less tragic circumstances have
driven men to go insane and have a moment of bad judgement. Okay, really
bad judgement. And in reality, many of the elves in Middle Earth
suffered much worse so that doesnt justify his actions. This story
shows how obsessed he was with Idril, to the point of madness, much like
his father was driven to madness by a woman. You almost feel sorry for
him because he did a lot to win her affections and Morgoth wisely used
that weakness against him. Rhapsody has captured the true essense of his
demise, not his hatred for Tuor or the people of Gondolin as much as his
obsessive love for Idril.

[All these memories are engraved in my mind and even now, my beautiful
Idril, you are the only thing I can think of while the wind cannot bear
my weight and the cold air encompasses my body. Death will be imminent
soon, my life is laid in ruin, and yet all I want is you.]

He doesnt even see at the point of his death the error of his ways  he
just sees her.

-----------------------------------
Title: Oasis · Author: Radbooks · Times: Late Third Age · ID: 259
Reviewer: Linda Hoyland · 2006-11-30 23:55:18 Score: 2
A glimpse into Aragorn's Thorongil years.I like the idea he might have
visited Harad and been in some tight corners.One can almost feel the
heat and his thirst here.
-----------------------------------
Title: A Woodland Prince · Author: Bodkin · Genres: Drama: Fixed-Length
Ficlet Series · ID: 303
Reviewer: elliska · 2006-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 8
This is perhaps my favorite series of drabbles ever. I love these to
bits. I thought the way you framed them, with Legolas's mother's point
of view was absolutely brilliant. And I loved the aspects of Legolas
that you caught with these. It's hard to say which one I like the
best--I like Galion's view of lost little Legolas and the elleth's view
of him. I thought including the orc's view of him was a really clever
idea. But I really loved the one you did for Elrond. I'm amazed at how
much of Elrond's decision you packed into 100 words. Amongst the
Fellowship, it was Pippin's view that struck me most. I so see Legolas
in the Fellowship as Pippin did there. And I liked what some of these
showed not only about Legolas, but about the POV characters as well.
More than anything else that I've ever read, this series of drabbles
perfectly captures who canon!Legolas is. An absolutely wonderful series
that should be required reading for anyone who wants to write Legolas
stories.
-----------------------------------
Title: The Follower · Author: Ivanneth · · ID: 493
Reviewer: Aramel · 2006-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 7
The Follower is one of the best Silmarillion fics I've read in a while,
though it sadly hasn't been updated for a time. It depicts the House of
Feanor from Fingon's point of view, making for a very refreshing change
from Evil!Feanorians.

["At least in the house of Finwë and Indis, and Nolofinwë their son, we
know how to count, and grasp the difference between third and fifth," I
said, my face stiff with anger. I had pondered on Maitimo's father-name
for many days, had meant to ask questions, though never with the intent
of slighting him or stirring up a quarrel.]

...

["Are your brothers angry with me for what I said?" I asked after a while.

"Are you joking? They thought it hilarious. Makalaurë only wishes he'd
thought of it himself; he can't wait to poke fun at Father for his 'lack
of counting skills'."]

It is a characteristic of this story to be flippantly humourous while
being strangely moving at the same time, and several phrases in especial
caught my imagination. To see the friendship between Maedhros and Fingon
grow and bloom is quite wonderful.

["I trust, sir," he said at last, "my uncle will then be pleased to hear
that I've no intent of granting his son the favor of choice lodgings.
You see," he added, with a sudden grin, "there are none. My father's
rooms alone make a few allowances to finery; my brothers and I appear to
have neither taste nor time for it. That said, the house isn't entirely
wanting in luxury - the pages' bedchamber comes to mind, I must have a
talk with them - though I imagine a son of Nolofinwë would bear up to
temptation. If the pages' chamber were not, alas, full to bursting. Now,
as to Findekáno causing trouble. faith, with my brothers being peerless
in that field, he had better try hard, else I'll never notice. But I'll
write - yes, I'll write."]

Old-fashioned speech that isn't forced, wry humour, delicious
characterizations, all in less than 200 words. Besides this, there are
charming descriptions of Feanor's house, nostalgic thoughts from Fingon,
and poetic descriptions of Valinor. How could I not like it? There is
only one thing lacking, and that is completion. And yes, that was a hint. :)
-----------------------------------
Title: Inspirare · Author: Ariel · Races: Hobbits: Friendship · ID: 622
Reviewer: Lily · 2006-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 7
I have seldom seen Rosie so well characterised as in this story. She is
caring, gentle, loving and has the well known common-sense of the
hobbits. Also she has a keen eye for her surroundings and the way smell
is worked into her perceptions is amazing.
Frodo is still superior to her and yet she reminds me more of a friend
than just someone who happens to live in the same hole.

The way Frodos loss and his sacrifices are brought into the story of a
gift which is far more than that, is unique. The death of Frodos
parents was discussed in many ways but I never considered Rosie
pondering it and I marvel every time at the description of a hidden
pain, even deeper than his malady.

A marvellous piece of fanfiction with Tolkiens hobbits characterised in
a way that would surely please the master.
-----------------------------------
Title: Gandalf's No Good, Rotten, Really Bad Day · Author: Gandalfs
apprentice · Genres: Humor: Parody · ID: 146
Reviewer: Lialathuveril · 2006-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 6
I found this an extremely funny and hilarious story, even though I am
not usually very keen on Alternate Universe stories. I can just about
picture the conversation between Gandalf and Manwe regarding his really
very indiscreet letter he left with Barliman in Bree. And I loved the
bit about Aragorn hitting his head and being so careless as to wander
round with a broken sword.

For the first time I was struck by how thin Tolkien's plot really is -
it doesn't make much sense for Gandalf to hurry off to Isengard straight
away when he could really just quickly have warned Frodo first. Of
course this in a way results in the whole ensuing hunt with the black
riders, which livenes things up enormously.
-----------------------------------
Title: The Stars Will Light Your Way · Author: SlightlyTookish · Races:
Hobbits: Hurt/Comfort · ID: 705
Reviewer: Lily · 2006-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 7
This story contains everything a good story needs: angst, humour, and
emotion. The idea is quite unique and, I think in some ways even a bit
philosophical. Gandalf has chosen two very special stars to be a guide
and a help for Pippin after he was injured at the Black Gate and lost in
darkness.
Or perhaps, the stars were Pippins all along and their purpose was made
clear to the hobbits only through the wizard? They help him find his way
back to the land of the living and even give strength to a still
weakened Merry.

The characters are very thoughtfully written. Each is full of love, care
and worry for the other. Especially Gandalf was well characterised. So
very gentle to his hobbits and always willing to explain as much as he
wants to tell.

A wonderful, moving story that is worth even a second or third reading.
-----------------------------------
Title: Cousin Calla · Author: Dreamflower · Races: Hobbits: Pre-Quest ·
ID: 767
Reviewer: Lily · 2006-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 7
This is a story full of sentiment, friendship and the coping with loss.
The deaths of Rory and Gilda cause old memories to awake again in Frodo
and yet he manages to keep up a mask. He is some kind of rock to cling
to for Merry during these terrible days even though his own grief is
ever present. Pippin is the only one who senses this and it is upon him
to look after both his older cousins and though this costs him quite a
lot of energy he is there for them both.
This is real friendship, and as always the characterizations of Merry,
Frodo and Pippin are perfect, as well as that of the other folks like
Paladin or Saradoc.

Then there is Calla, of course. At first I did not know what to make of
her but as I read on this poor old woman somehow became dear to me. And
her drawings and the fact that Frodo recognises them in a way are an
amazing tool to add to the constant tinge of melancholy and foreboding
throughout the story.
-----------------------------------
Title: Endurance Beyond Hope · Author: Frayach Ni Cuill · · ID: 854
Reviewer: Rabidsamfan · 2006-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 5
This is a powerful story of the long-term effects of Frodo's departure
across the sea on those who remain in the Shire some fourteen years
later. Fine, careful details in both the present and the past weave a
strong basis to the story, and we discover the depth of Sam's unhealed
wounds at the same time as Merry does.

Pippin shines in this story, as do all the "minor" characters, from Sam
and Rosie's brood of children to the servants at Brandy Hall. But it is
largely Merry and Sam who can and must come to terms with what has been
lost.

Get out your kleenex before you begin. You'll need it.
-----------------------------------
Title: The Bond Between Us · Author: Lily · Races: Hobbits · ID: 963
Reviewer: elentari3018 · 2006-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 6
The relationship between Pippin and Frodo is written so well in this
story. This four-part story explores how Pippin and Frodo's relationship
is a constant sense of loyalty and devotion. Few fics have done what
LIly has done--set it in a descriptive atmosphere that is so wonderful
to read ---with such realistic portrayal of the characters that make me
very happy that there are still canonical authors out there who are
willing to make their characters ring true in how i imagine them as well.
There are not many Frodo and Pippin cousin fics that focus upon their
love for each other and indeed, this was a real treat to come across to
for Lily has managed to write well enough to induce tears from me and i
truly think that this is one of my favorites from her talented heart.
-----------------------------------
Title: Good Neighbors · Author: daw the minstrel · Genres: Adventure ·
ID: 818
Reviewer: nau_tika · 2006-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 5
I have several favorite parts to this story. The one I like best is
Thranduil when he tries to remember if his other sons had ever been so
protective of their friends. I like that the king took time to go with
his son instead of sending Legolas with Itilden. Another interesting
point is how Eilien views Elladan and Elrohir...who are actually far too
much like him at this point for his liking. It shows growth in
Thranduil's middle son that we are all relieved to see. The way the
twins respond to him when he is protective of the boy at the end is also
another excellent growth point, but this is between Eilien and the twins.
Promising his steward will visit to reinforce the king's interest in the
boy is a nice touch, too!
-----------------------------------
Title: Thranduil's begetting day · Author: daw the minstrel · Genres:
Humor · ID: 287
Reviewer: nau_tika · 2006-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 7
Where to begin? The last chapter is hysterical. It's wonderful that
Legolas is able to put the art of opening locks without a key that
Beliond taught him to such good use for Beliond. I was not surprised
that Beliond was the last to succumb to the fumes, but I was surprised
he was negligent enough to break the rillium open. Poor Legolas. I
appreciate how inspired he was in trying to get the elleth to lose
interest in him, but he might have parted with her as friends if he'd
been honest. Now she simply wants to avoid him forever and one of the
king's son has a less than shiny reputation. Legolas was always so aware
of his duty as Thranduil's son to portray himself well. Amazing what
fear of romance can do to even elven royalty! I liked that some of the
less often seen characters were involved in this fairly short tale. I
see Alfiens headache and Thranduil's grandson being able to do no wrong
as totally true to life. I still want to know what that mystery gift
from Dale was!
-----------------------------------
Title: A Creature Of Fire · Author: daw the minstrel · Races: Elves:
Featuring Mirkwood Elves · ID: 956
Reviewer: nau_tika · 2006-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 10
This story is one of the hardest of daw's for me to read, but it is
extremely well written. It's wonderful that Legolas and his almost-lost
love find each other again and the way Beliond protects their privacy is
very touching. Of course, Beliond plays a very special role in this fic
and we see him in a slightly gentler yet authorativie in ways we have
not see before. The interaction between he and Sinnarn's keeper, though
brief, was also insightful. Sinnarn's sharing with Eilien that this was
something that should be taken seriously and the moment he calls Legolas
uncle show his maturity. Something we have sometimes despaired of seeing
and I mean that in a good way. The trip to Dale, Beliond not liking to
tell Legolas that he doesnt know something when Legolas asks, the way
they interact with the people of Dale and with each other are all
wonderul. The time when Beliond is unable to reach Legolas is almost
funny in an awful way. It does give some balance to the horror of
finding Tuilinn dead. Legolas having Eilien's support came as a relief.
The time in Tuilinn's village when her parent's tell him he made her
last days joyful ones, the actual ceremony where he is included with the
family and places the ring on her body are all new views of elfdom and
well done. Meeting Thranduil and how they relate to each other. I still
crave the scene with Eilien arriving home with the news. I have played
it in my mind several times and maybe daw did us a favor by not telling
us, but still I yearn for that fill in the blanks scene. I also
appreciate the moments between Legolas and his former rival, Galelas and
the growing maturity there. I am sure Eilien welcomes it. I also noted
that Thranduils daughters in law both had set roles and had Tuilinn
married Legolas the fact she was going to be a healer would have given
her a place of her own in the palace. I am still undecided if I wish
he'd wed or not, but this was a sad and marvelous story. I try not to
re-read it too often because it depresses me. That's a good writer!
-----------------------------------
Title: All Those Who Wander · Author: daw the minstrel · Races: Elves:
Featuring Mirkwood Elves · ID: 209
Reviewer: nau_tika · 2006-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 6
I'm not quite sure what to say about this story. The young Legolas
stories by daw are my favorite. This one shows special moments between
Legolas and Eilien, especially at meal time. It shows Eilien trying to
balance duties when he checks on Legolas before standing guard.
Something else I noted was Thranduil assuming that Ithilden could not
have been the last to see Legolas. I dont think it's that Eilien would
lose him, I think it's that Ithildien wouldnt, so Thranduil had to look
to the middle son. That part disappoints me as far as the king goes.
Leaving the blanket behind was a nice touch. That and the incident with
spilling his plate are both things that wouldnt have happened if Nimloth
had been able to go with them...or if Legolas' mother had lived.
-----------------------------------
Title: The Long Road Home · Author: AmandaK · Genres: Alternate Universe
· ID: 743
Reviewer: nau_tika · 2006-12-01 00:00:24 Score: 10
This story was the first I'd read by the author and I was extremely
impressed. The part that stays with me especially was the dog and I can
still picture her in my mind, though I originally read the story some
weeks ago. I like how she made him laugh and how she seemed to be almost
a person - which is totally true to life for some dogs. And of course,
when she rescued him, ["A pale red-golden blur streaked through the air,
snarling, striking the orc and tearing it off of Boromir. "]
Something I think was resolved, though I dont remember heavy focus being
placed on it was ["an empty hole of longing Boromir feared would never
fill again"] when the ring was destroyed was ultimately filled.
I liked how the author connected what Boromir had done to Frodo with how
he had once treated Faramir as a small child and the promise he'd made
then It was so frustrating watching him delay his trip home year after
year, knowing that he was the only one who would not want him there.
Knowing all the times that Faramir wanted him home, for his wedding and
other important events in his life. It was presented so well, I wanted
to shake the elder son of Denethor! I also hated the position he place
Faramir in by asking him to keep the secret. Faramir could never have
felt fully comfortablel with Aragorn or the others and he could never be
sure what differences it might have made had he broken faith with
Boromir and revealed he still lived.
I loved the variety of people that Boromir met. The original characters
were all very well done. I had never considered a scribe for those who
could not read or write nor have I ever seen one mentioned in fanfiction
before.
Poor Faramir! Finally receiving word from his brother and then having it
tell him practically nothing! And then when the woman finally arrives
with the letter and shares her story of her time with Boromir, Aragorn
interrupts and embarrasses them! How nice of Eowyn and Faramir to keep a
discrete eye out for her welfare!
It was good to see Boromir adopt Hallas and teach him to use a sword. I
liked that Boromir thought of getting an animal for him to ride, too!
I particularly enjoyed the men of Rohan teaching Hallas the song. I wish
I could hear the tune and learn it. Boromir's reaction to it was well done.
It was heart wrenching to be reminded that Aragorn let the boat slip and
blamed himself for Boromir's loss and then later to hear something
similar from Gimli brings home the fact that secrets can have
devastating effects - Denethor's death perhaps included.
Watching Hallas mature was interesting. Hard to believe he would battle
a troll. I cried when Híril died. "...he was not yet ready to say
farewell to the animal. She had been his first companion on his journey,
a friend who gave affection with no expectations in return." I could
still cry with very little prompting! If she had to go, I am glad it was
saving Hallis and not Boromir. He would have really struggled with that
guilt.
I wish that Boromir and Frodo could have met and discussed the pull of
the ring. They could have understood it like no others, except Bilbo, I
suppose. Poor Sam, thinking first of Frodo: ["Mr. Frodo would have been
so pleased to know. And now I can never tell him." ] It is a sad thought!
The ending with the trumpets is perfect. I'm still hoping for Hallas
training at the Citadel and to see what happens after that!
The one negative thing I have to say is that I feel the summary here
gives too much away to those who havent read it before.
-----------------------------------
Title: Come When You Are Ready · Author: EdorasLass · Genres: Alternate
Universe · ID: 795
Reviewer: nau_tika · 2006-12-01 00:00:00 Score: 2
I had to think about this fic before I decided who the character was.
Very compelling and well done. Especially liked how the part relating to
Faramir was handled.