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Msg# 9344

MEFA Reviews for Sunday, August 3, 2008 (Part One) Posted by Ann August 03, 2008 - 20:48:01 Topic ID# 9344
Title: Look Not With Longing · Author: Dwimordene · Times: Fourth Age
and Beyond · ID: 479
Reviewer: Imhiriel · 2008-07-25 15:56:06
I thought this short story captured well the nostalgia one can feel
even when they refer back to a time that was darker and more perilous
than the present. A feeling of being adrift in a time growing ever
more remote from one's own experiences, experiences that may well
leave a more indelible touch on one's soul than those in more peaceful
times, being more dangerous and therefore likely more intense. This
quote perfectly encapsulates this sentiment: ["Things had a weight to
them then that he misses now - the world swept clean of gods and
demons is an open, airy space, yet dimmer - thinned."]

It is particularly poignant that it is Faramir pondering these
feelings, who had yearned for a more peaceful time when he could cease
having to fight that was not to his natural inclination. But it feels
entirely in-character for him to be so self-aware and reflective.

There is so much a sense of what is left unsaid, or only hinted at,
that gives a wonderful richness and denseness to the story.

The contrast between the melancholic tone and subject matter, and the
imagery of light, of shining woven throughout the story is an
intriguing and very appealing touch.

Title: Took Broth · Author: Pearl Took · Genres: Humor: Shire · ID: 543
Reviewer: Larner · 2008-07-25 16:40:55
Spoilers!
Oh, how we often are so reluctant to tasting new dishes, and how
wonderful when we give into pressure and find they are delightful!

Love this one so, and Sam's reluctance to get caught up in this
foolishness and his resultant pleasure is so well done! I'm such a
sucker for a Sam story, almost as much as is RabidSamFan, I think! And
to see him being coaxed along by Merry and Pippin is delightful!

Wonderful, warm humor.

Title: If You Could See What I Hear · Author: Cathleen · Times: Mid
Third Age: Eriador · ID: 614
Reviewer: Larner · 2008-07-25 16:46:10
Spoilers!
I so love this tale of young Pippin wandering abroad, accompanied at
first only by his knitted pink piglet Tulip, and the inevitable
frantic search by his parents, relatives, and neighbors. I love the
thought of both Pippin receiving instruction at the hands of his
hosts, and Paladin's more cranky acceptance of instruction as he
searches impatiently for his son, and how this helps prepare both for
the crises surrounding his next great wandering abroad when as a tween
Pippin will accompany his cousins and Sam away from their safe haven
for a far more serious situation.

Imagery is wonderful, and the foreshadowing of what will come is
delicately done.

Title: With Many "Fond" Acknowledgments · Author: Thundera Tiger ·
Genres: Humor · ID: 472
Reviewer: Larner · 2008-07-25 16:49:01
A wonderfully charming spoof of how writers can find themselves
feeling pressured to acknowledge all who submitted information
allowing the author to put it together into a book. Poor Sam--so many
egos to stroke!

So funny!

Title: Forfeit · Author: Branwyn (Lady Branwyn) · Times: Late Third
Age: Gondor Drabbles · ID: 401
Reviewer: Larner · 2008-07-25 16:55:38
Spoilers!
Ah, our worthy Beregond and his decision to stay and face the
consequences of his actions. His courage and honor--and love for his
son--are so well expressed, and with such remarkable economy.

The images of him declaring his decision, then seeing his uniform
prepared for dress inspection, then standing over his sleeping son
will stay with me forever, I think. Beautiful, Lady Branwyn.

Title: Nine Companions · Author: Aranel Took · Genres: Humor: Drabbles
· ID: 259
Reviewer: Larner · 2008-07-25 16:59:20
Now, that I NEVER saw coming! And of course Aragorn would have that
particular hand! This one is indeed a keeper! Thanks for the
laugh--had expected a touching moment, but not this particular KIND of
touching! Hehehehe!

Title: Undivided · Author: Raksha the Demon · Races: Elves: Other
Fixed-Length Ficlets · ID: 46
Reviewer: Larner · 2008-07-25 17:10:20
Spoilers!
Their mother wounded to near the death of her spirit, Elrohir and
Elladan make their decision as to what they will do now, and offer one
another comfort as twins. It is an almost Hobbity image, the two of
them temporarily retreating to their childhood room to sleep, their
arms about one another; but out of that innocent seeming is born the
steel of their determination to avenge their mother's violation on the
persons of every orc they come across.

The emotions conveyed here--confusion, self-doubt, near-accusation,
concern, pain, aching love for the one hurt and the rest of the
family, indecision, determination--all are done so well! So many
emotions packed into such a short fic.

Title: The Mariner's Son · Author: cairistiona · Genres: Adventure ·
ID: 329
Reviewer: Larner · 2008-07-25 17:12:40
A remarkable tale with remarkable characters, from the unnamed
"mariner's son" to the one imprisoned by him. The story is haunting,
and it sparks our sympathies for all involved.

Highly recommended.

Title: The Edge of the Knife · Author: Dwimordene · Genres: Alternate
Universe: Other Fixed-Length Ficlets · ID: 274
Reviewer: Raksha the Demon · 2008-07-25 17:16:06
Spoilers!
Fanfiction pieces about Numenor, and even the Second Age, are not as
numerous as those of the Ages before and after them, at least it seems
that way to me. Elendil the Tall and his mighty sons get comparatively
short shrift.

But here, an outstanding writer gives us a series of eight drabbles
painting pictures of alternate branchings of Tolkien's tree, all
involving Elendil and/or his sons.

What would have happened if Isildur had died while saving the fruit of
the tree? And what if Elendil and his sons had combined their forces
with Tar-Miriel to stop Ar-Pharazon before he caused Numenor's
destruction? And if Isildur and Anarion had been corrupted by
Annatar's evil?

Dwimordene brings these fascinating possibilities, and more, to vivid
life. The series is a great read for drabble aficionados as well as
people who appreciate quality fanfiction.

Title: Playing with Fire · Author: Linda hoyland · Races: Men: Minas
Tirith · ID: 21
Reviewer: Virtuella · 2008-07-25 21:32:00
This is yet another excellent vignette, Linda. I always enjoy your
elegant style of writing, and your take on the characters is just so
realistic. It is a fine line for parents to decide, what they let
their children learn from experience, and what they need to protect
them from absolutely. The last sentence in this story expresses this
dilemma perfectly.

Title: As Was Dwarven Tradition · Author: Nieriel Raina · Races:
Dwarves · ID: 553
Reviewer: Imhiriel · 2008-07-25 21:48:20
Spoilers!
I could really feel Gimli's disappointment amidst the cheerful
celebration for this so important birthday. What joy at the arrival of
the surprise visitors!

I liked the titles the celebrants list to toast Gimli, they remind us
of his many accomplishments.

Title: The Bridge · Author: Armariel · Genres: Poetry: Drama · ID: 429
Reviewer: Imhiriel · 2008-07-25 21:51:18
Spoilers!
Oh, lovely. Gorgeous imagery and sensitivity.

I think this poem captures Sam character very well, his being
down-to-earth at the same time he can exhibit a profound sense of awe
at the beauty and the wonders of the world.

His feelings are conveyed very well. You could sense his longing for
Frodo, his anticipation for his eventual reunion with him, his joy at
knowing and "seeing" Frodo is well and happy, and at being able to
talk with him about the most everyday things in both their lives, even
if only in dream. I think despite this, he accepts Frodo's admonition
to not hurry their reunion, to cherish and take delight in his life in
Middle-earth as long as it may last.

I find it very touching how he can describe the sublime sights in his
dream in such awe-filled tones (and with wonderful imagery, like ["the
air a spicy tent"], interspersed with very oddly - at first glance -
comparing the lingering touch of Frodo in his dream with something
so... hm, so mundane... like a hat, which nevertheless makes complete
sense.

Title: Trading Pledges · Author: Adaneth · Races: Dwarves · ID: 339
Reviewer: Imhiriel · 2008-07-25 21:52:22
Spoilers!
This story is a prequel of Adaneth's Dūnhebaid Cycle. We meet familiar
characters in their younger days, and characters who have died
before/when the main series begins.

I very much enjoyed this slice of Auš's life, seen through her eyes
and not always fully explained, but giving depth and layers to her
story, together with the clear descriptions of the bustle of preparing
for war, and her work as a seamstress. A wonderfully complex piece of
"culture-building", plausible and vivid, told with obvious care for prose.

I like the obviously deep bond between brother and sister. The mother
was also a very interesting character.

And some things really seem to be universal: a man courting his his
best friend's sister always seeming to be somewhat awkward; the wish
for love and marriage, for a deep bond before setting out to war, so
as to have something hopeful and joyful to sustain the warriors in
grim times.

And, of course, the most important aspect: it was very, very romantic!
I'm glad Adaneth gave us this chance to see both halves of this couple
in happier times, alive and in love.

Title: On Amon Sūl · Author: Dreamflower · Genres: Drama: Featuring
Frodo or Sam · ID: 299
Reviewer: Dwimordene · 2008-07-25 22:24:15
A nicely composed gap filler. Taking Frodo's perspective enables the
Ring and its threat to come through very clearly and in a very
personal form. Getting little snips of the discussions among the
hobbits and Strider, discussions which had to have happened even if
not given, gave a glimpse into the workings of this small and oddly
composed group in an emergency.

As always, Dreamflower's language recalls Tolkien's, helping to slot
her narrative into the main story seamlessly.

Title: In The Midst Of Summer · Author: Cuthalion · Genres: Drama:
Final Partings · ID: 270
Reviewer: Dwimordene · 2008-07-25 22:24:31
Spoilers!
Sweet and gentle look at Sam's relationship with his wife and family
after Rosie passes away. The opening sets the mood, and I like the
descriptions of the garden and their memories. Sam's sense of the
invasion of meaninglessnes under the guise of new meanings - now the
flowers remind him that Rose isn't here, that their bed has no
purpose, that children must adapt to loss - would be enough, in many
ways, to make us understand Sam's decision.

But the intervention of fear in his son that Sam interprets as the
need for him to act or do something to get everyone settled - to get
himself settled in the path he'll take - is makes for a more positive
look at his imminent departure. Not just a passive falling away, but
an active letting go for others.


Title: Estel I Was Called · Author: Marta · Genres: Drama: Featuring
Aragorn · ID: 351
Reviewer: Dwimordene · 2008-07-25 22:24:40
Spoilers!
The problems associated with getting Aragorn back to the Angle after a
long time away and ignorant of his roots are manifold. Marta takes up
a few of them, particularly the need for continued secrecy, and pits
it against Aragorn's longing for memory, which is also a longing for self.

[For all the pride he took in knowing he came from such a high
lineage, his inheritance as his father's son seemed pitifully poor. He
longed for memories. A kiss on the brow, a steadying hand on his arm,
anything! But all that remained for him was cold metal. A silver star.
A ring he could not even wear openly without declaring his heritage. A
broken sword. And a name.]

Everything Aragorn possesses from his father, including his own name,
is in limbo - unusable, and so in a way, utterly intangible and
nothing he could stand on to feel his way into his new life.

Halbarad's pragmatism seems right in this instance, and ends up by
giving Aragorn what he'd wanted from Arathorn: a base, a relationship
he can build on and will, despite his rather reduced expectations at
the close of this story. But reduced or not, they are a beginning and
that's what the story seems to have been after: a place to start out
from. Nicely done, Marta!

Title: Moved to Pity · Author: Imhiriel · Genres: Drama: General
Drabbles · ID: 366
Reviewer: Dwimordene · 2008-07-25 22:24:47
Spoilers!
Imhiriel displays her talent for squeezing significance out of very
few words. The Beren-Luthien story is epic and hard to capture for
just that reason. Yet Imhiriel fixes on its significance in later
times and is able to use that an anchor for this encounter between
Mandos and Vaire.

I love the spareness of the dialogue, and Vaire's simple ["I know"] to
her husband - she is perhaps the only one in Valinor who could
credibly say that to the Vala who more than the others is attuned to
fate and so not easily surprised or moved. Through this intimate
scene, the wonder of a surprised Mandos is emphasized to the reader,
who can appreciate it the more.

Well done, Imhiriel!

Title: Utślie'n Aurė · Author: Nieriel Raina · Genres: Drama: General
Fixed-Length Ficlets · ID: 163
Reviewer: Dwimordene · 2008-07-25 22:24:56
Spoilers!
It's fitting to see how the passing of Sauron affected Glorfindel, who
has fought so hard and to such lengths to rid M-e of Morgoth's taint.
I liked the opening description of the effect the news had on him:
[The relief pushed the apprehension, fear and doubt from him like a
river shoves the last icy remainders of winter downstream, and in its
wake, left him almost boneless.]

After so long a labor, the end of it probably would leave one feeling
drained.

Title: The Apprentice · Author: pandemonium_213 · Races: Villains · ID: 52
Reviewer: SurgicalSteel · 2008-07-25 23:45:18
This is an intriguing look at how life might have been among the
smiths of Eregion, living and working with 'Aulendil.' The main
character, Samaril, is engaging. I really enjoyed watching his
transition from apprentice to master. I have a sister who's a PhD
chemist and I felt like I could have dropped her into this group and
she'd have fit right in with the insane hours worked in the laboratory
and the odd trains of conversation while not at work. The betrayal at
the end feels particularly appalling and shocking, even though you
know it's coming. A really good read!

Title: Pippin's Secret · Author: shirebound · Races: Hobbits:
Friendship · ID: 599
Reviewer: SurgicalSteel · 2008-07-25 23:51:02
Spoilers!
I really liked the notion that Pippin learned Bilbo's secret at a very
young age - and that the fact he kept it is what convinced Gandalf
that Pippin was trustworthy. A fun read!

Title: In Search of Stillness · Author: Bodkin · Races: Elves:
Mirkwood Elves · ID: 704
Reviewer: Larner · 2008-07-26 01:46:57
Spoilers!
Ah, yes, one of Bodkin's best--but then, all her works are remarkable.
What to do with a stubborn Elf who refuses to answer the call that
haunts him? Take him home, and after a few days of antagonism shared
with his father, a few weeks of peace, then returning arguments, look
for him to need to wander once more, back to his new lands and his
close friends from within the Fellowship--until the next time the Sea
Longing is in danger of taking him.

One can hear the two of them bicker as they wander into the renewed
woods around Dol Guldur; smell the rising scents of early spring; feel
the cool rain, taste the stew, see the rising steam and mist about
them, know the joy of the coming of Thranduil to find them. A story
for the senses!

Title: Pippin (Paladin) Had a Little Lamb · Author: Cathleen · Genres:
Humor · ID: 629
Reviewer: Larner · 2008-07-26 01:50:53
Spoilers!
Once upon a time little Paladin Took had a knitted lamb friend to
rival the friendship little Peregrin knows with his knitted piglet
Tulip. So now the story is told of the loss of Sammy Lambie, and
Eglantine, busy with knitting a new toy, finds herself wondering which
will appreciate it more, her son or the child that lingers within her
husband.

The love Eglantine has for her husband and son is marvelous, and one
can feel her amusement and exasperation at the two of these menfolk in
her family.

Very sweet story.

Title: The Blessing of the Waters · Author: Raksha the Demon · Genres:
Romance: Other Fixed-Length Ficlets · ID: 61
Reviewer: Larner · 2008-07-26 01:53:41
Ah, such a sensual story! Theirs is a love to indeed bless the waters
of any land; there within Imladris they make the valley a blessed
place indeed.

It is such a lovely tale, and one that makes me wish I could find that
land lying just below the mountains. I keep looking for it somewhere
near the feet of Mount Rainier....

Title: Rivendell International Airport · Author: Primsong · Genres:
Humor: Elven Lands · ID: 345
Reviewer: Larner · 2008-07-26 01:56:18
Ah, but THIS is such a delight. Only Legolas seems to appreciate how
to work the system, managing at the last to reclaim all that has been
confiscated by security. A marvelous laugh and a delight to read--and
so reflecting the frustrations we find when we must deal with such
officialdom! Excellent, Primsong!

Title: The Edge of the Knife · Author: Dwimordene · Genres: Alternate
Universe: Other Fixed-Length Ficlets · ID: 274
Reviewer: Larner · 2008-07-26 02:25:43
Isildur's fate might have been so very different, and his life, like
the fate of the world as dictated by the actions of the Fellowship
does indeed stand [on the edge of a knife]. Here is a marvelous series
of Might-Have-Beens had various things changed along the course of his
life, from his childhood to the taking of (or failure to take) the
Ring from Sauron. Well, well done series of drabbles taking one
through all emotions.