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Msg# 9293
MEFA Reviews for Tuesday, July 22, 2008 (Part Two) Posted by Ann July 22, 2008 - 20:59:48 Topic ID# 9293Title: Gently Held · Author: viv · Genres: Romance: Other Fixed-Length
Ficlets · ID: 6
Reviewer: Robinka · 2008-07-07 06:48:50
Arwen's intimate confession composed as a beautiful, touching and warm
ficlet. It is a very personal story that makes me feel as if I were
listening to Arwen herself, as if I were her friend. It also has a
delicate, romantic touch to it which I love. Exquisite writing style,
splendidly expressed emotions. Brava!
Title: Rekindling · Author: Dawn Felagund · Times: Fourth Age and
Beyond · ID: 255
Reviewer: whitewave · 2008-07-07 06:54:32
The fate of Feanor after his death and after the main events of the
Silmarillion have come to pass is always very interesting, intriguing,
even. The passage where it says that Feanor will still make an
appearance in the Final battle was heartening, after all someone as
illustrious and blessed by Illuvatar by so prodigous a talent deserves
more than being just part of the "prologue". To his credit, even if he
could be rash and too emotional at times, he was able to resist
Melkor--the very same fallen Valar who was able to convince the other
Valar to release him into the company of the very creatures he used to
torture and mutilate. This story is a good read in that it reinforces
that particular opinion of mine that even if Arda and those who
inhabit it are marred, there is always hope for everyone.
Title: The Scribe and the Heir · Author: Dawn Felagund · Genres:
Drama: Featuring the Noldor · ID: 256
Reviewer: whitewave · 2008-07-07 07:06:24
This story gives a very good view of the House of Finwe before the
Oath and does an excellent job of setting up the stage for that event.
It also provides interesting insight into two of the leading and
influential characters in that house--Feanor and Fingolfin. It makes
me wonder how different events could have turned out if their
relationship with each other had not been so negative--it offers a lot
of promise that Melkor would not have had the chance to prevail (but
then, the events of the book would have been greatly altered). I've
always been of the opinion that the root cause of their feud is
something that either of them would have had control anyway, except on
how they choose to act towards its effects. Their barely disguised
hate towards each other eventually finds its way to their children,
especially their eldest son--Maitimo and Findekano, and this makes it
so real and close-to-home, at least for me: how selfish one could be
when one is hurt that one often disregards how much we hurt those
around us. And I'm going down from my soap box now and finish the review.
The fact that Maitimo and Findekano were able to still maintain a
close friendship speaks volumes.
Title: The Work of Small Hands · Author: Dawn Felagund · Genres:
Longer Works · ID: 352
Reviewer: whitewave · 2008-07-07 07:35:37
Very engrossing work on the House of Finarfin, another interesting
family but too often forgotten or overshadowed by the Feanor and
Fingolfin feud. And after all, Finarfin ruled the longest of all the
Noldorin kings and to think he was not even close to being an heir at
the start of the Silmarillion. The pivotal role played by Earwen here
is also commendable I also appreciate that the story is from her
point-of-view and how great her contribution was. It also gives a
logical and plausible glimpse of what happened to the Noldor who
remained and how and what the other kindred could have done or felt
towards them. I was a bit frustrated, as usual, with how the Valar
handled this again, but then that's just me. My favorite scene here
was the scene of the four queens of the Noldor who find reasons not to
rule, in sharp contrast to Feanor and Fingolfin. The most touching
scene here is the final rites for the fallen in Alqualonde. One could
only imagine how it must have felt--the ultimate paradigm shift indeed.
Title: Waterloo · Author: Lady Bluejay · Genres: Romance: Gondor · ID: 158
Reviewer: whitewave · 2008-07-07 07:44:16
Liked the last part of the chapter there! Lothy is so lucky! I am
positively hooked on Eomer and Lothy. I also liked the scene with
Erchirion and his red-haired lady.
Putting aside my strong fangirl tendencies, I liked the way you wrote
of the very tense and highly-charged scene of the occupants while
Gondor was being besieged. The scene when the Rohirrim sounded their
battle horns gave me goosebumps (the nice kind).
I just love the way you write romances, in fact I love all of the
Eomer and Lothy stories you have written thus far. They have this
romantic movie feel that turns me into a fangirl and a sensible plot
that appeals to my more sensible tendencies.
Title: Early Winter at Himring Hill · Author: Oshun · Genres: Romance:
Elven Lands · ID: 79
Reviewer: Larner · 2008-07-07 13:36:32
The descriptions of the scene surrounding Fingon's visit are vivid,
and Fingon's own feelings are well written.
Title: Heavens' Embroidered Cloths · Author: Tanaqui · Genres: Drama:
Gondor Fixed-Length Ficlets · ID: 292
Reviewer: Larner · 2008-07-07 13:49:18
What a wonderful set of drabbles describing the decorations of
constellations and the stories told of each as was customary in
Faramir's childhood home. And seeing the relationships between Faramir
and his parents, brother, and nurse as shown here is heartwarming. The
renewal of the use of the constellation banners by his beloved wife
must have been such a surprise and obviously sparked wonderful memories.
How wonderful to see wholly Middle Earth celebrations and decorations!
Indeed one of the best series of drabbles I've ever read. Thank you.
Title: The Skills That Keep You Alive · Author: Gwynnyd · Times: Mid
Third Age · ID: 434
Reviewer: Larner · 2008-07-07 13:59:58
Ah--it's been a time since I read this one. Young Estel learned from
Glorfindel that whatever one learns to do well adds to the warrior's
ability to survive, including the possibility of having to juggle
items. And in time the wanderer from the north finds himself
supporting himself and possibly hiding his true mission by juggling ih
Harad.
The contrast between Aragorn's childhood in Rivendell and his
preparations to entertain in Harad is well done, and descriptions are
sufficiently detailed to give a sense of place and mood.
Title: And all was made ready · Author: Dreamflower · Races:
Cross-Cultural: Friendship · ID: 427
Reviewer: Larner · 2008-07-07 14:37:48
The coronation of Aragorn was so sparsely described in LOTR, it begs
to be expanded upon. This description of the morning, from the waking
of the four Hobbits to the coronation itself, is detailed and
delightful--and filled with the emotions of the four of them as we
look at various moments from the point of view of each of them. There
are memories of the past, thoughts on the future, and observations on
the moment for each. We see typical Hobbit lightness of heart and very
real considerations and concerns as each looks not only on the doings
of the day but considers what the others must be feeling.
A wonderful, poignantly told narrative.
Title: Home is where the heart is · Author: Linda hoyland · Genres:
Romance: Drabbles · ID: 505
Reviewer: Larner · 2008-07-07 14:43:11
Spoilers!
LindaHoyland has proven to be a master at drabbles, able to capture
the moment well and with excellent images and well-written emotion,
and so she has here in her description of Arwen's uncertainty as she
considers the city she shall now dwell within, and the warmth of the
moment when her new husband draws her into the dance. A crystaline
moment as marvelous as any snowglobe--complete and shining--a moment
to hold joyfully in one's hand as one considers and delights in it.
Title: Rose, Rose, Rose · Author: White Gull · Genres: Romance · ID: 619
Reviewer: Larner · 2008-07-07 14:54:44
A rather vivid encounter between Rosie and Frodo, her imagination
stoked by the thought of him as she knows those of other lasses have
been stirred by him as well.
Sensual and delicate--and Sam thinks she's experiencing nightmares?
Ah, but are dreams of Frodo Baggins ever nightmares?
Title: A Day in Time · Author: Pearl Took · Times: Multi-Age · ID: 230
Reviewer: PipMer · 2008-07-07 17:26:40
What a lovely story! A lesson learned, about the value of family and
friends, and how one should appreciate them while they are still around.
Well done, Pearl!
Title: Seven Sisters · Author: Pearl Took · Races: Other Beings · ID: 388
Reviewer: PipMer · 2008-07-07 17:39:56
Spoilers!
Oh, my! What can I say? This one took my breath away.
I like how the mythology of one of our constellations was woven into
this story. Well done!
Title: Meant to Be · Author: Pearl Took · Races: Other Beings · ID: 137
Reviewer: PipMer · 2008-07-07 18:11:57
This is a very heartwarming story, about the origins of Pippin's
stuffed pig Tulip. I can feel the love that went into his making, a
mother's love for her lad. Another delightful story by Pearl!
Title: Pippin-Frog For A Day · Author: Neilia · Genres: Alternate
Universe: Incomplete · ID: 115
Reviewer: PipMer · 2008-07-07 18:41:21
Oh, more please, and soon! This story is delightul, funny, and
suspenseful. I must say, Pippin got what he deserved, being the cheeky
young fellow that he is!
Well done.
Title: Maglor's Harp · Author: Ford of Bruinen · Genres: Horror · ID: 660
Reviewer: Oshun · 2008-07-07 20:20:54
Spoilers!
I would highly recommend this story. First, the disclaimers: I do not
like horror as a genre in general, nor do I believe in from canon or
my own extrapolations of it that Fëanor's sons were mad. Yes, they
were driven, compelled, unhappy, committed to something that they
might have many times wish they could have undone, but unable to go
back and start over again, only able to go forward. The least mad
among them for me, probably would have been Maglor, after Maedhros
despite Thangorodrim and Morgoth's torture. They just did too many
things that required compassion and hard work to be barking,
slobbering mad. No denying that they did terrible things which they
believed were necessary to fulfill their duty and had to be done
because of oaths sworn. That does not make a person, in and of itself,
crazy.
Having got that off my chest, I must say that I would absolutely
recommend this story to others who might feel the same way that I did.
It is beautifully written. The writer has constructed a perfect little
jewel of a story. It is just so horribly dark and yet never graphic,
although quite explicit. You really made me suspend my sense of
disbelief and be willing to go along for the experience. What a
compelling, macabre and creepily gorgeous story. It is just so
chilling. The not-so-subtle sexual overtones, just were the final
telling detail. It certainly is an antidote for too much fluffy,
goody-goody Maglor! Congratulations on a job well done.
Title: Trinity · Author: pandemonium_213 · Times: Modern Times · ID: 51
Reviewer: Oshun · 2008-07-07 20:28:04
If my memory serves me right, this was one of the first, if not the
first story, I had read by this author. Been fascinated by Oppenheimer
myself. My mother-in-law lives in Santa Fe, New Mexico, where there is
a whole folk history of Los Alamos and those who lived and worked
there. Anyway, even after I found it I was a bit shy of jumping right
in . . . (I didn't know her as a writer as well then as I do now and
was terrified I would find some version or another of the narrow moral
absolutes which the subject matter can provoke.) Of course, it did not
happen at all and her take on the heroes/villains of the piece was
wonderfully complex and, therefore, in actuality, both humble and
tolerant of others and ultimately humane, quite the antithesis of the
arrogance that one might fear when reading someone who takes this
point of view.
I guess I have not said yet that I love her writing writing style. She
is able to draw one right into the period as well with tiny details,
like Oppie's cigarette and his chain smoking. I had some favorite
lines that I cannot resist repeating (hope they serve as a teaser to
entice others to read this story, since they are very expensive in
terms of reducing the number of point this review will garner): 1)
["Oh for God's sake, Robert. That's just superstitious nonsense. You
know as well as do."] 2) ["...his enunciation carrying a refinement
that suggested the Upper West Side but with a touch of a yiddishe
grandparent somewhere in there"] (I know that accent! She made me feel
clever somehow.) And I howled with glee at: 3) ["It's just your eyes.
You both must have unusual refractive proteins in your irises. That
threw me off."]
I could not resist laughing at myself here, of course: I am such a
sucker on how the light of Aman did not dim in the eyes of the exiled
Noldor. I just fall so easily for that kind of hyperbolic description
when thinking about the Noldor and all that they accomplished. For me
they will always be bigger than life and only normal in their capacity
for the abnormally large emotional intensity of the truly passionate
(which describes most geniuses, whether their field is that of the
arts, scholarship, or the sciences). Anyway, back to the megawatt
eyes, I was utterly delighted to hear Oppie's theory confirmed. To the
writer: Thank you for a great read. Thank you so much such a wonderful
introduction into your take on what I have heard you playfully call
your scientification of Tolkien's legendarium. And if anyone should,
after reading this, assume that the heresy here in anyway undermines
the respect for the source, I would strongly argue that they are dead
wrong, the writers love for Tolkien literally shines in her work.
Title: Expert Treasure Hunter · Author: Tanaqui · Races: Villains:
Fixed-Length Ficlets · ID: 447
Reviewer: kitt_otter · 2008-07-07 22:14:46
Oh, I do love Smaug. You portray him wonderfully here - every word is
a revelation of his character. I could feel, taste and smell what he
did. And so this is how he finds and sorts his treasure: by scent! I
suppose he would have to as he grew ever bigger (fatter). : )
Title: A Fitting Occupation · Author: Radbooks · Races: Men: Pre-Ring
War Fixed-Length Ficlets · ID: 601
Reviewer: kitt_otter · 2008-07-07 22:22:52
Spoilers!
Wow, anything with Bard is done too little - and the plus with his son
was wonderful to me! This was skillfully written; each was a drabble
then? It ran smoothly. I like that you fit in the toymaking because
that is utterly Dale-ish! Could it even be that Baird made some of the
toys Bilbo ordered? That was a hanging ending, though, but surely Dain
accepted the proposal, for Bard is quite a persuasive fellow.
Title: Spiced Wine On A Snowy Day · Author: Nieriel Raina · Races:
Elves: Other Fixed-Length Ficlets · ID: 558
Reviewer: Larner · 2008-07-07 22:34:52
Glorfindel might not appreciate the spiced wine Erestor is enjoying,
but he, too, finds beauty in the scene before them. And there is Hope
there as well....
The mood is well conveyed, and the scene is delicately described.
Title: The Last Summer · Author: Golden · Races: Hobbits · ID: 143
Reviewer: Larner · 2008-07-07 23:52:09
Spoilers!
Pippin is snuggling with his Banks grandfather, and draws him to join
the midsummer festivities. A good memory to take with one....
Very poignant and gentle as Grandfather Banks finds joy in spite of
knowing he is nearing his end.
Title: A Midsummer Day's Dream · Author: Raksha the Demon · Genres:
Drama: Gondor Fixed-Length Ficlets · ID: 422
Reviewer: Larner · 2008-07-08 00:03:06
Sitting in the gardens of Emyn Arnen, Faramir rejoices in the company
of those he loves. both those physically with him and those he's not
seen for a long time. A joy-filled reminder that there is more to life
than living in the present, and the loves we treasure are eternal.
Truly filled with a triumphant gentleness consistent with the nature
of our favorite Steward.
Title: Pippin and the Incredible Shrinking Piglet · Author: Cathleen ·
Genres: Humor: Shire · ID: 241
Reviewer: PipMer · 2008-07-08 01:34:03
Spoilers!
This was so sweet! Poor Pippin, wondering if his beloved piglet will
disappear, lol!
I especially liked the end, where Tulip promises Pippin she'll be with
him even on the Quest; nice foreshadowing.
Title: Frogdom · Author: Neilia · Genres: Humor: Elven Lands · ID: 192
Reviewer: PipMer · 2008-07-08 01:42:02
Well, it's about time that wizard made good on one of his threats. And
nobody deserves it like Pippin-lad!
This made me laugh; well done.
Title: The Last Summer · Author: Golden · Races: Hobbits · ID: 143
Reviewer: PipMer · 2008-07-08 01:54:54
Such a bittersweet story. Sad, and beautifully done. It evokes many
emotions as one reads. Well done
Ficlets · ID: 6
Reviewer: Robinka · 2008-07-07 06:48:50
Arwen's intimate confession composed as a beautiful, touching and warm
ficlet. It is a very personal story that makes me feel as if I were
listening to Arwen herself, as if I were her friend. It also has a
delicate, romantic touch to it which I love. Exquisite writing style,
splendidly expressed emotions. Brava!
Title: Rekindling · Author: Dawn Felagund · Times: Fourth Age and
Beyond · ID: 255
Reviewer: whitewave · 2008-07-07 06:54:32
The fate of Feanor after his death and after the main events of the
Silmarillion have come to pass is always very interesting, intriguing,
even. The passage where it says that Feanor will still make an
appearance in the Final battle was heartening, after all someone as
illustrious and blessed by Illuvatar by so prodigous a talent deserves
more than being just part of the "prologue". To his credit, even if he
could be rash and too emotional at times, he was able to resist
Melkor--the very same fallen Valar who was able to convince the other
Valar to release him into the company of the very creatures he used to
torture and mutilate. This story is a good read in that it reinforces
that particular opinion of mine that even if Arda and those who
inhabit it are marred, there is always hope for everyone.
Title: The Scribe and the Heir · Author: Dawn Felagund · Genres:
Drama: Featuring the Noldor · ID: 256
Reviewer: whitewave · 2008-07-07 07:06:24
This story gives a very good view of the House of Finwe before the
Oath and does an excellent job of setting up the stage for that event.
It also provides interesting insight into two of the leading and
influential characters in that house--Feanor and Fingolfin. It makes
me wonder how different events could have turned out if their
relationship with each other had not been so negative--it offers a lot
of promise that Melkor would not have had the chance to prevail (but
then, the events of the book would have been greatly altered). I've
always been of the opinion that the root cause of their feud is
something that either of them would have had control anyway, except on
how they choose to act towards its effects. Their barely disguised
hate towards each other eventually finds its way to their children,
especially their eldest son--Maitimo and Findekano, and this makes it
so real and close-to-home, at least for me: how selfish one could be
when one is hurt that one often disregards how much we hurt those
around us. And I'm going down from my soap box now and finish the review.
The fact that Maitimo and Findekano were able to still maintain a
close friendship speaks volumes.
Title: The Work of Small Hands · Author: Dawn Felagund · Genres:
Longer Works · ID: 352
Reviewer: whitewave · 2008-07-07 07:35:37
Very engrossing work on the House of Finarfin, another interesting
family but too often forgotten or overshadowed by the Feanor and
Fingolfin feud. And after all, Finarfin ruled the longest of all the
Noldorin kings and to think he was not even close to being an heir at
the start of the Silmarillion. The pivotal role played by Earwen here
is also commendable I also appreciate that the story is from her
point-of-view and how great her contribution was. It also gives a
logical and plausible glimpse of what happened to the Noldor who
remained and how and what the other kindred could have done or felt
towards them. I was a bit frustrated, as usual, with how the Valar
handled this again, but then that's just me. My favorite scene here
was the scene of the four queens of the Noldor who find reasons not to
rule, in sharp contrast to Feanor and Fingolfin. The most touching
scene here is the final rites for the fallen in Alqualonde. One could
only imagine how it must have felt--the ultimate paradigm shift indeed.
Title: Waterloo · Author: Lady Bluejay · Genres: Romance: Gondor · ID: 158
Reviewer: whitewave · 2008-07-07 07:44:16
Liked the last part of the chapter there! Lothy is so lucky! I am
positively hooked on Eomer and Lothy. I also liked the scene with
Erchirion and his red-haired lady.
Putting aside my strong fangirl tendencies, I liked the way you wrote
of the very tense and highly-charged scene of the occupants while
Gondor was being besieged. The scene when the Rohirrim sounded their
battle horns gave me goosebumps (the nice kind).
I just love the way you write romances, in fact I love all of the
Eomer and Lothy stories you have written thus far. They have this
romantic movie feel that turns me into a fangirl and a sensible plot
that appeals to my more sensible tendencies.
Title: Early Winter at Himring Hill · Author: Oshun · Genres: Romance:
Elven Lands · ID: 79
Reviewer: Larner · 2008-07-07 13:36:32
The descriptions of the scene surrounding Fingon's visit are vivid,
and Fingon's own feelings are well written.
Title: Heavens' Embroidered Cloths · Author: Tanaqui · Genres: Drama:
Gondor Fixed-Length Ficlets · ID: 292
Reviewer: Larner · 2008-07-07 13:49:18
What a wonderful set of drabbles describing the decorations of
constellations and the stories told of each as was customary in
Faramir's childhood home. And seeing the relationships between Faramir
and his parents, brother, and nurse as shown here is heartwarming. The
renewal of the use of the constellation banners by his beloved wife
must have been such a surprise and obviously sparked wonderful memories.
How wonderful to see wholly Middle Earth celebrations and decorations!
Indeed one of the best series of drabbles I've ever read. Thank you.
Title: The Skills That Keep You Alive · Author: Gwynnyd · Times: Mid
Third Age · ID: 434
Reviewer: Larner · 2008-07-07 13:59:58
Ah--it's been a time since I read this one. Young Estel learned from
Glorfindel that whatever one learns to do well adds to the warrior's
ability to survive, including the possibility of having to juggle
items. And in time the wanderer from the north finds himself
supporting himself and possibly hiding his true mission by juggling ih
Harad.
The contrast between Aragorn's childhood in Rivendell and his
preparations to entertain in Harad is well done, and descriptions are
sufficiently detailed to give a sense of place and mood.
Title: And all was made ready · Author: Dreamflower · Races:
Cross-Cultural: Friendship · ID: 427
Reviewer: Larner · 2008-07-07 14:37:48
The coronation of Aragorn was so sparsely described in LOTR, it begs
to be expanded upon. This description of the morning, from the waking
of the four Hobbits to the coronation itself, is detailed and
delightful--and filled with the emotions of the four of them as we
look at various moments from the point of view of each of them. There
are memories of the past, thoughts on the future, and observations on
the moment for each. We see typical Hobbit lightness of heart and very
real considerations and concerns as each looks not only on the doings
of the day but considers what the others must be feeling.
A wonderful, poignantly told narrative.
Title: Home is where the heart is · Author: Linda hoyland · Genres:
Romance: Drabbles · ID: 505
Reviewer: Larner · 2008-07-07 14:43:11
Spoilers!
LindaHoyland has proven to be a master at drabbles, able to capture
the moment well and with excellent images and well-written emotion,
and so she has here in her description of Arwen's uncertainty as she
considers the city she shall now dwell within, and the warmth of the
moment when her new husband draws her into the dance. A crystaline
moment as marvelous as any snowglobe--complete and shining--a moment
to hold joyfully in one's hand as one considers and delights in it.
Title: Rose, Rose, Rose · Author: White Gull · Genres: Romance · ID: 619
Reviewer: Larner · 2008-07-07 14:54:44
A rather vivid encounter between Rosie and Frodo, her imagination
stoked by the thought of him as she knows those of other lasses have
been stirred by him as well.
Sensual and delicate--and Sam thinks she's experiencing nightmares?
Ah, but are dreams of Frodo Baggins ever nightmares?
Title: A Day in Time · Author: Pearl Took · Times: Multi-Age · ID: 230
Reviewer: PipMer · 2008-07-07 17:26:40
What a lovely story! A lesson learned, about the value of family and
friends, and how one should appreciate them while they are still around.
Well done, Pearl!
Title: Seven Sisters · Author: Pearl Took · Races: Other Beings · ID: 388
Reviewer: PipMer · 2008-07-07 17:39:56
Spoilers!
Oh, my! What can I say? This one took my breath away.
I like how the mythology of one of our constellations was woven into
this story. Well done!
Title: Meant to Be · Author: Pearl Took · Races: Other Beings · ID: 137
Reviewer: PipMer · 2008-07-07 18:11:57
This is a very heartwarming story, about the origins of Pippin's
stuffed pig Tulip. I can feel the love that went into his making, a
mother's love for her lad. Another delightful story by Pearl!
Title: Pippin-Frog For A Day · Author: Neilia · Genres: Alternate
Universe: Incomplete · ID: 115
Reviewer: PipMer · 2008-07-07 18:41:21
Oh, more please, and soon! This story is delightul, funny, and
suspenseful. I must say, Pippin got what he deserved, being the cheeky
young fellow that he is!
Well done.
Title: Maglor's Harp · Author: Ford of Bruinen · Genres: Horror · ID: 660
Reviewer: Oshun · 2008-07-07 20:20:54
Spoilers!
I would highly recommend this story. First, the disclaimers: I do not
like horror as a genre in general, nor do I believe in from canon or
my own extrapolations of it that Fëanor's sons were mad. Yes, they
were driven, compelled, unhappy, committed to something that they
might have many times wish they could have undone, but unable to go
back and start over again, only able to go forward. The least mad
among them for me, probably would have been Maglor, after Maedhros
despite Thangorodrim and Morgoth's torture. They just did too many
things that required compassion and hard work to be barking,
slobbering mad. No denying that they did terrible things which they
believed were necessary to fulfill their duty and had to be done
because of oaths sworn. That does not make a person, in and of itself,
crazy.
Having got that off my chest, I must say that I would absolutely
recommend this story to others who might feel the same way that I did.
It is beautifully written. The writer has constructed a perfect little
jewel of a story. It is just so horribly dark and yet never graphic,
although quite explicit. You really made me suspend my sense of
disbelief and be willing to go along for the experience. What a
compelling, macabre and creepily gorgeous story. It is just so
chilling. The not-so-subtle sexual overtones, just were the final
telling detail. It certainly is an antidote for too much fluffy,
goody-goody Maglor! Congratulations on a job well done.
Title: Trinity · Author: pandemonium_213 · Times: Modern Times · ID: 51
Reviewer: Oshun · 2008-07-07 20:28:04
If my memory serves me right, this was one of the first, if not the
first story, I had read by this author. Been fascinated by Oppenheimer
myself. My mother-in-law lives in Santa Fe, New Mexico, where there is
a whole folk history of Los Alamos and those who lived and worked
there. Anyway, even after I found it I was a bit shy of jumping right
in . . . (I didn't know her as a writer as well then as I do now and
was terrified I would find some version or another of the narrow moral
absolutes which the subject matter can provoke.) Of course, it did not
happen at all and her take on the heroes/villains of the piece was
wonderfully complex and, therefore, in actuality, both humble and
tolerant of others and ultimately humane, quite the antithesis of the
arrogance that one might fear when reading someone who takes this
point of view.
I guess I have not said yet that I love her writing writing style. She
is able to draw one right into the period as well with tiny details,
like Oppie's cigarette and his chain smoking. I had some favorite
lines that I cannot resist repeating (hope they serve as a teaser to
entice others to read this story, since they are very expensive in
terms of reducing the number of point this review will garner): 1)
["Oh for God's sake, Robert. That's just superstitious nonsense. You
know as well as do."] 2) ["...his enunciation carrying a refinement
that suggested the Upper West Side but with a touch of a yiddishe
grandparent somewhere in there"] (I know that accent! She made me feel
clever somehow.) And I howled with glee at: 3) ["It's just your eyes.
You both must have unusual refractive proteins in your irises. That
threw me off."]
I could not resist laughing at myself here, of course: I am such a
sucker on how the light of Aman did not dim in the eyes of the exiled
Noldor. I just fall so easily for that kind of hyperbolic description
when thinking about the Noldor and all that they accomplished. For me
they will always be bigger than life and only normal in their capacity
for the abnormally large emotional intensity of the truly passionate
(which describes most geniuses, whether their field is that of the
arts, scholarship, or the sciences). Anyway, back to the megawatt
eyes, I was utterly delighted to hear Oppie's theory confirmed. To the
writer: Thank you for a great read. Thank you so much such a wonderful
introduction into your take on what I have heard you playfully call
your scientification of Tolkien's legendarium. And if anyone should,
after reading this, assume that the heresy here in anyway undermines
the respect for the source, I would strongly argue that they are dead
wrong, the writers love for Tolkien literally shines in her work.
Title: Expert Treasure Hunter · Author: Tanaqui · Races: Villains:
Fixed-Length Ficlets · ID: 447
Reviewer: kitt_otter · 2008-07-07 22:14:46
Oh, I do love Smaug. You portray him wonderfully here - every word is
a revelation of his character. I could feel, taste and smell what he
did. And so this is how he finds and sorts his treasure: by scent! I
suppose he would have to as he grew ever bigger (fatter). : )
Title: A Fitting Occupation · Author: Radbooks · Races: Men: Pre-Ring
War Fixed-Length Ficlets · ID: 601
Reviewer: kitt_otter · 2008-07-07 22:22:52
Spoilers!
Wow, anything with Bard is done too little - and the plus with his son
was wonderful to me! This was skillfully written; each was a drabble
then? It ran smoothly. I like that you fit in the toymaking because
that is utterly Dale-ish! Could it even be that Baird made some of the
toys Bilbo ordered? That was a hanging ending, though, but surely Dain
accepted the proposal, for Bard is quite a persuasive fellow.
Title: Spiced Wine On A Snowy Day · Author: Nieriel Raina · Races:
Elves: Other Fixed-Length Ficlets · ID: 558
Reviewer: Larner · 2008-07-07 22:34:52
Glorfindel might not appreciate the spiced wine Erestor is enjoying,
but he, too, finds beauty in the scene before them. And there is Hope
there as well....
The mood is well conveyed, and the scene is delicately described.
Title: The Last Summer · Author: Golden · Races: Hobbits · ID: 143
Reviewer: Larner · 2008-07-07 23:52:09
Spoilers!
Pippin is snuggling with his Banks grandfather, and draws him to join
the midsummer festivities. A good memory to take with one....
Very poignant and gentle as Grandfather Banks finds joy in spite of
knowing he is nearing his end.
Title: A Midsummer Day's Dream · Author: Raksha the Demon · Genres:
Drama: Gondor Fixed-Length Ficlets · ID: 422
Reviewer: Larner · 2008-07-08 00:03:06
Sitting in the gardens of Emyn Arnen, Faramir rejoices in the company
of those he loves. both those physically with him and those he's not
seen for a long time. A joy-filled reminder that there is more to life
than living in the present, and the loves we treasure are eternal.
Truly filled with a triumphant gentleness consistent with the nature
of our favorite Steward.
Title: Pippin and the Incredible Shrinking Piglet · Author: Cathleen ·
Genres: Humor: Shire · ID: 241
Reviewer: PipMer · 2008-07-08 01:34:03
Spoilers!
This was so sweet! Poor Pippin, wondering if his beloved piglet will
disappear, lol!
I especially liked the end, where Tulip promises Pippin she'll be with
him even on the Quest; nice foreshadowing.
Title: Frogdom · Author: Neilia · Genres: Humor: Elven Lands · ID: 192
Reviewer: PipMer · 2008-07-08 01:42:02
Well, it's about time that wizard made good on one of his threats. And
nobody deserves it like Pippin-lad!
This made me laugh; well done.
Title: The Last Summer · Author: Golden · Races: Hobbits · ID: 143
Reviewer: PipMer · 2008-07-08 01:54:54
Such a bittersweet story. Sad, and beautifully done. It evokes many
emotions as one reads. Well done
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