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Msg# 9425
MEFA Reviews for Monday, September 8, 2008 (Part One) Posted by annmarwalk September 08, 2008 - 20:47:18 Topic ID# 9425Title: DISGUISE: Emissaries · Author: Fiondil · Genres: Humor: Valar &
Maiar · ID: 56
Reviewer: Imhiriel · 2008-09-08 02:24:14
Considering the doubts and objections from some of the emissaries
straight from the beginning, it's a wonder the Valar put their trust
into *all* of them nonetheless!
I was greatly amused by Olórin's irreverence, and his teasing of
Curumo. And the part about the various possibilities of appearance put
very funny "what-if-ideas" into my head.
The story is good at managing the ensemble of Valar and Maiar, giving
each of them some unique and/or recognisable trait.
Title: Fennas Haradren · Author: Linaewen · Genres: Adventure · ID: 280
Reviewer: Raksha the Demon · 2008-09-08 03:30:57
Spoilers!
A fine story that carries the mystery of a haunted house and the
urgency of a battle, along with the presence of a monster, not to
mention Boromir and assorted men of Gondor. The air of shadow over the
old land of Gondor is conveyed through the nearness of Mordor and Mt.
Doom, the silence of the company at the outpost, and then the terrible
revelations in Part II. Nicely done.
Title: Giving Gifts · Author: Marta · Genres: Humor: Other
Fixed-Length Ficlets · ID: 426
Reviewer: Raksha the Demon · 2008-09-08 05:21:17
Spoilers!
A cleverly crafted quadrabble concerning Denethor's subtly snarky
response to Imrahil's gift to Faramir. The ironic one-upmanship
between the two fathers is very amusing.
Title: Baker's Dozen · Author: Tanaqui · Genres: Drama: General
Fixed-Length Ficlets · ID: 372
Reviewer: Marta · 2008-09-08 06:26:06
Spoilers!
Ah, but these were a fun set of drabbles to read. On the surface, they
do a very good job of capturing the variety of occupations that would
have filled Middle-earth and through several different races, giving a
nice cross-section of daily life, especially in Fourth Age Gondor. And
as I've come to expect from Tanaqui's drabbles, each one is well
thought-out and shows a depth beyond their 100 words.
Beyond that, several of them shine on their own. I loved the fact that
Faramir was wise enough to send out spies to make sure his policies
were carried out fairly. (That's an element that alone is enough to
commend the series to Gondor-lovers... Gondor is very well
administered throughout.) Then there's the Orc's callous treatment of
the Nurnen slaves. However, I think the one that most shines is the
last one. That line....
[Trouble, like always, called in the shape of a dame. And a mighty
fine shape too. ]
Still has me giggling! This series was a delightful smorgasboard of
moments, and I heartily enjoyed it.
Title: Wave-Singer · Author: Branwyn (Lady Branwyn) · Genres:
Alternate Universe: Drabbles · ID: 33
Reviewer: Larner · 2008-09-08 06:45:47
Spoilers!
Well, he took ship, but did not end up on Tol Eressea.
A momentary glimpse of Tolkien's most tragic of heroes, singing [as if
he'd lost everything] in a land he'd perhaps never thought to see,
apparently haunting an eastern rather than a western shore now.
A beautiful blending of Tolkien and Amerindian legends. A worthy tale.
Title: In Passing · Author: Altariel · Races: Men · ID: 104
Reviewer: Larner · 2008-09-08 07:11:34
Spoilers!
It's been a long and fulfilling life, and here, so close to the end of
it, there is another treasure to rejoice over, one whose attention is
caught in images. To tell his life's story--briefly--in terms of the
pieces on his beloved chessboard--it is something he can share on a
rainy morning; and the child returns the gift in his pictures.
A perfect telling of the quiet at the end of a well played game.
Imagery is perfect for the subject!
Title: Answering the Call · Author: docmon · Genres: Drama · ID: 340
Reviewer: crowdaughter · 2008-09-08 10:31:38
Awesome collection of AU's. The two I found most chilling and
compelling were the two concerning Gandalf (what a great vision! And
how sneaky the change of thinking comes about) and the one concerning
Legolas. Very well done!
Title: A Moment in the Morning in Bree · Author: Budgielover · Races:
Cross-Cultural · ID: 731
Reviewer: crowdaughter · 2008-09-08 10:46:01
Spoilers!
I do not normally read many Hobbit-centered stories, but this one was
a delightful read, and very humorous, indeed. The way the questions
unnerved Aragorn was delightful, and I especially loved the reaction
of the Hobbits to his remark of not drawing attention to himself under
civilized people. Very funny, and very well done. Thank you for
writing and sharing!
Title: Here's To The King! · Author: Jael · Genres: Humor: Elven Lands
· ID: 204
Reviewer: crowdaughter · 2008-09-08 10:59:32
Spoilers!
This is a delightful story, and shows great humor - and a wonderful
lack of respect to our normally so well-revered Elves. The picture of
a worn-out, tired Legolas, forced to deal with silly insubordination -
as it first seems - is very well drawn, as is Legolas' changing
reaction to the disrespectful song. Which full lyrics, after they are
explained, are great fun in themselves.
I have to say, the revelation of the identity of the prisoner came as
no great surprise to me - I began laughing pretty soon through the
entire story. Still, it was handled in a wonderful way. And the
outcome of the tale - Naruthir's ongoing disquiet towards Legolas',
regarding the disappearance of the prisoner, as well as Legolas'
reaction whenever he heard that song in further times - had me
grinning all over. As had the gift to his father. Here's to the king,
indeed!
I love the explanation of the origins of the song, though; it keeps
the whole story from getting too fluffy, and gtransforms the whole,
funny tale in a well-balanced dish. Very well done! :)
Title: The Roses of Imloth Melui · Author: Aervir · Genres: Drama:
Gondor Fixed-Length Ficlets · ID: 435
Reviewer: crowdaughter · 2008-09-08 11:07:04
A beautiful view at Ioreth, and very delicately written. I love the
imagery of the roses, and how they follow her through all her life.
Very well done.
Title: A Cat in King Elessar's Court · Author: agape4gondor · Races:
Cross-Cultural: Friendship · ID: 66
Reviewer: crowdaughter · 2008-09-08 11:16:27
Spoilers!
What an unique kind of story, and what an unique perspective. I have
always loved stories from the perspective of cats set in Middle Earth,
ever since I first read the great pieces of Werecat about Beruthiel
and her cats; so I really, really liked this one.
And what a great idea to see the last days of Denethor as well as
Aragorn's beginning rein through the cat's eyes. Lovely story, and
wonderfully executed. Thank you for writing and sharing!
Title: Out of the Blue · Author: Jael · Races: Elves · ID: 205
Reviewer: Isabeau of Greenlea · 2008-09-08 17:34:31
Spoilers!
I loved Not Fade Away, to which this story is sequel. The social
worker protagonist is a sympathetic and believable character, who is
able to trust her heart when she makes a home visit to some very rich
and unusual "cultists". It was absolutely delightful to see Thranduil
in a bathrobe and jammy bottoms watching Bob the Builder videos with
his grandson, and to revisit other loved characters from the first
story. My only objection is that this work is too short. It seems a
bit truncated, because I am greedy and want to know if Jane ever
really got anything going with Haldir.
Title: Star of Hope · Author: Linda Hoyland · Times: Mid Third Age:
Eriador · ID: 34
Reviewer: nancylea · 2008-09-08 19:44:52
goes to show there's something for spontaneous-ness.
Title: Now the Green Blade Riseth · Author: annmarwalk · Genres:
Drama: Ring War Drabbles · ID: 37
Reviewer: nancylea · 2008-09-08 19:49:14
and think of oll the wonderful parties that little mubbins going to bless.
Title: Confidence · Author: annmarwalk · Races: Men: Minas Tirith · ID: 38
Reviewer: nancylea · 2008-09-08 19:52:57
we each make our own choice and some parents even let us learn to live
with them. wise parent.
Title: Courage · Author: annmarwalk · Genres: Humor: Gondor · ID: 41
Reviewer: nancylea · 2008-09-08 19:58:25
i shall never be that courageous!!!!!!!!!
Title: Scholarship · Author: Raksha the Demon · Races: Men: Steward's
Family · ID: 43
Reviewer: nancylea · 2008-09-08 20:03:06
Spoilers!
i know that reading to your children helps them learn faster
throughout their lives but this may be a step above and beyond the
call of duty.
Title: Before the Black Gate · Author: Raksha the Demon · Times: Late
Third Age · ID: 45
Reviewer: nancylea · 2008-09-08 20:05:08
you give pippin an excellent game plan for the day.
Title: Undivided · Author: Raksha the Demon · Races: Elves: Other
Fixed-Length Ficlets · ID: 46
Reviewer: nancylea · 2008-09-08 20:08:27
once a split egg twin always a split egg twin? best in tight, close
contact.
Title: Wind of Change · Author: Raksha the Demon · Genres: Drama:
General Fixed-Length Ficlets · ID: 47
Reviewer: nancylea · 2008-09-08 20:11:50
so much hope so small a vessel. (aside: could this be one mare reason
she was drawn towards aragorn--such destinies so early in life?)
Title: Wedding Nerves · Author: Jay of Lasgalen · Times: Late Third
Age: Gondor · ID: 48
Reviewer: nancylea · 2008-09-08 20:14:37
little brothers are made for picking on and some times for loving out
of a pickle.
Title: Philosophia to Philomythus and Misomythus · Author:
pandemonium_213 · Genres: Poetry · ID: 50
Reviewer: nancylea · 2008-09-08 20:18:48
or is this advanced studies: gimli/legolas 421 in the college course
schedule?
Title: Trinity · Author: pandemonium_213 · Times: Modern Times · ID: 51
Reviewer: nancylea · 2008-09-08 20:31:55
wow, deep, and so many levels of me have such different feelings about
all the little insights; disgust, fear, terror and strangely NO
HAPPINESS. wow,deep!
Title: For What I Wait · Author: Dawn Felagund · Genres: Alternate
Universe: Angst/Tragedy · ID: 125
Reviewer: Rhapsody · 2008-09-08 20:47:14
Spoilers!
This story hits the reader into the gut and will pierce your heart. To
some who read this, it might hit very close to home. It is so hard to
really let go of someone you love or find understanding as to why
someone would chose for such an end (but who is waiting fro what, the
release or having a son returned?). Mix that with the love of a parent
who tries to find out or mayhap does not want to see the truth until
it is too late. When reading Fëanor's narrative, Dawn carefully
portrays how hard it is to find acceptance when you loose someone
close, even if you know deep down inside you cannot hold them in this
life forever. It just felt that he just hung on to that last shred of
hope, the deeply rooted pain, and fear of loosing someone, ultimately
the pain softens a bit, but the profound missing is there. Feänor just
goes about it, knows where he fails, but he is so far from accepting
the naked truth which I think is the most difficult one to face. Well
the end as he stands there, I think it slowly gets there for him. This
realisation is buried deep inside of Feänor, but when reading it once
more I think it might take a long time when he finally is able to, I
am glad Maglor found his peace, very glad indeed.
The underlying themes of this piece is yet again the folly and
destruction of the oath and there is also the bit of giving life and
letting it go, I think it is something many can identify with. This is
a marvellous piece of writing and a daring AU, simply outstanding
prose that stands out in its intimacy and simplicity.
Title: DISGUISE: Emissaries · Author: Fiondil · Genres: Humor: Valar &
Maiar · ID: 56
Reviewer: nancylea · 2008-09-08 20:54:34
it's always so heartbreaking to see such a good friendship dissolve.
Maiar · ID: 56
Reviewer: Imhiriel · 2008-09-08 02:24:14
Considering the doubts and objections from some of the emissaries
straight from the beginning, it's a wonder the Valar put their trust
into *all* of them nonetheless!
I was greatly amused by Olórin's irreverence, and his teasing of
Curumo. And the part about the various possibilities of appearance put
very funny "what-if-ideas" into my head.
The story is good at managing the ensemble of Valar and Maiar, giving
each of them some unique and/or recognisable trait.
Title: Fennas Haradren · Author: Linaewen · Genres: Adventure · ID: 280
Reviewer: Raksha the Demon · 2008-09-08 03:30:57
Spoilers!
A fine story that carries the mystery of a haunted house and the
urgency of a battle, along with the presence of a monster, not to
mention Boromir and assorted men of Gondor. The air of shadow over the
old land of Gondor is conveyed through the nearness of Mordor and Mt.
Doom, the silence of the company at the outpost, and then the terrible
revelations in Part II. Nicely done.
Title: Giving Gifts · Author: Marta · Genres: Humor: Other
Fixed-Length Ficlets · ID: 426
Reviewer: Raksha the Demon · 2008-09-08 05:21:17
Spoilers!
A cleverly crafted quadrabble concerning Denethor's subtly snarky
response to Imrahil's gift to Faramir. The ironic one-upmanship
between the two fathers is very amusing.
Title: Baker's Dozen · Author: Tanaqui · Genres: Drama: General
Fixed-Length Ficlets · ID: 372
Reviewer: Marta · 2008-09-08 06:26:06
Spoilers!
Ah, but these were a fun set of drabbles to read. On the surface, they
do a very good job of capturing the variety of occupations that would
have filled Middle-earth and through several different races, giving a
nice cross-section of daily life, especially in Fourth Age Gondor. And
as I've come to expect from Tanaqui's drabbles, each one is well
thought-out and shows a depth beyond their 100 words.
Beyond that, several of them shine on their own. I loved the fact that
Faramir was wise enough to send out spies to make sure his policies
were carried out fairly. (That's an element that alone is enough to
commend the series to Gondor-lovers... Gondor is very well
administered throughout.) Then there's the Orc's callous treatment of
the Nurnen slaves. However, I think the one that most shines is the
last one. That line....
[Trouble, like always, called in the shape of a dame. And a mighty
fine shape too. ]
Still has me giggling! This series was a delightful smorgasboard of
moments, and I heartily enjoyed it.
Title: Wave-Singer · Author: Branwyn (Lady Branwyn) · Genres:
Alternate Universe: Drabbles · ID: 33
Reviewer: Larner · 2008-09-08 06:45:47
Spoilers!
Well, he took ship, but did not end up on Tol Eressea.
A momentary glimpse of Tolkien's most tragic of heroes, singing [as if
he'd lost everything] in a land he'd perhaps never thought to see,
apparently haunting an eastern rather than a western shore now.
A beautiful blending of Tolkien and Amerindian legends. A worthy tale.
Title: In Passing · Author: Altariel · Races: Men · ID: 104
Reviewer: Larner · 2008-09-08 07:11:34
Spoilers!
It's been a long and fulfilling life, and here, so close to the end of
it, there is another treasure to rejoice over, one whose attention is
caught in images. To tell his life's story--briefly--in terms of the
pieces on his beloved chessboard--it is something he can share on a
rainy morning; and the child returns the gift in his pictures.
A perfect telling of the quiet at the end of a well played game.
Imagery is perfect for the subject!
Title: Answering the Call · Author: docmon · Genres: Drama · ID: 340
Reviewer: crowdaughter · 2008-09-08 10:31:38
Awesome collection of AU's. The two I found most chilling and
compelling were the two concerning Gandalf (what a great vision! And
how sneaky the change of thinking comes about) and the one concerning
Legolas. Very well done!
Title: A Moment in the Morning in Bree · Author: Budgielover · Races:
Cross-Cultural · ID: 731
Reviewer: crowdaughter · 2008-09-08 10:46:01
Spoilers!
I do not normally read many Hobbit-centered stories, but this one was
a delightful read, and very humorous, indeed. The way the questions
unnerved Aragorn was delightful, and I especially loved the reaction
of the Hobbits to his remark of not drawing attention to himself under
civilized people. Very funny, and very well done. Thank you for
writing and sharing!
Title: Here's To The King! · Author: Jael · Genres: Humor: Elven Lands
· ID: 204
Reviewer: crowdaughter · 2008-09-08 10:59:32
Spoilers!
This is a delightful story, and shows great humor - and a wonderful
lack of respect to our normally so well-revered Elves. The picture of
a worn-out, tired Legolas, forced to deal with silly insubordination -
as it first seems - is very well drawn, as is Legolas' changing
reaction to the disrespectful song. Which full lyrics, after they are
explained, are great fun in themselves.
I have to say, the revelation of the identity of the prisoner came as
no great surprise to me - I began laughing pretty soon through the
entire story. Still, it was handled in a wonderful way. And the
outcome of the tale - Naruthir's ongoing disquiet towards Legolas',
regarding the disappearance of the prisoner, as well as Legolas'
reaction whenever he heard that song in further times - had me
grinning all over. As had the gift to his father. Here's to the king,
indeed!
I love the explanation of the origins of the song, though; it keeps
the whole story from getting too fluffy, and gtransforms the whole,
funny tale in a well-balanced dish. Very well done! :)
Title: The Roses of Imloth Melui · Author: Aervir · Genres: Drama:
Gondor Fixed-Length Ficlets · ID: 435
Reviewer: crowdaughter · 2008-09-08 11:07:04
A beautiful view at Ioreth, and very delicately written. I love the
imagery of the roses, and how they follow her through all her life.
Very well done.
Title: A Cat in King Elessar's Court · Author: agape4gondor · Races:
Cross-Cultural: Friendship · ID: 66
Reviewer: crowdaughter · 2008-09-08 11:16:27
Spoilers!
What an unique kind of story, and what an unique perspective. I have
always loved stories from the perspective of cats set in Middle Earth,
ever since I first read the great pieces of Werecat about Beruthiel
and her cats; so I really, really liked this one.
And what a great idea to see the last days of Denethor as well as
Aragorn's beginning rein through the cat's eyes. Lovely story, and
wonderfully executed. Thank you for writing and sharing!
Title: Out of the Blue · Author: Jael · Races: Elves · ID: 205
Reviewer: Isabeau of Greenlea · 2008-09-08 17:34:31
Spoilers!
I loved Not Fade Away, to which this story is sequel. The social
worker protagonist is a sympathetic and believable character, who is
able to trust her heart when she makes a home visit to some very rich
and unusual "cultists". It was absolutely delightful to see Thranduil
in a bathrobe and jammy bottoms watching Bob the Builder videos with
his grandson, and to revisit other loved characters from the first
story. My only objection is that this work is too short. It seems a
bit truncated, because I am greedy and want to know if Jane ever
really got anything going with Haldir.
Title: Star of Hope · Author: Linda Hoyland · Times: Mid Third Age:
Eriador · ID: 34
Reviewer: nancylea · 2008-09-08 19:44:52
goes to show there's something for spontaneous-ness.
Title: Now the Green Blade Riseth · Author: annmarwalk · Genres:
Drama: Ring War Drabbles · ID: 37
Reviewer: nancylea · 2008-09-08 19:49:14
and think of oll the wonderful parties that little mubbins going to bless.
Title: Confidence · Author: annmarwalk · Races: Men: Minas Tirith · ID: 38
Reviewer: nancylea · 2008-09-08 19:52:57
we each make our own choice and some parents even let us learn to live
with them. wise parent.
Title: Courage · Author: annmarwalk · Genres: Humor: Gondor · ID: 41
Reviewer: nancylea · 2008-09-08 19:58:25
i shall never be that courageous!!!!!!!!!
Title: Scholarship · Author: Raksha the Demon · Races: Men: Steward's
Family · ID: 43
Reviewer: nancylea · 2008-09-08 20:03:06
Spoilers!
i know that reading to your children helps them learn faster
throughout their lives but this may be a step above and beyond the
call of duty.
Title: Before the Black Gate · Author: Raksha the Demon · Times: Late
Third Age · ID: 45
Reviewer: nancylea · 2008-09-08 20:05:08
you give pippin an excellent game plan for the day.
Title: Undivided · Author: Raksha the Demon · Races: Elves: Other
Fixed-Length Ficlets · ID: 46
Reviewer: nancylea · 2008-09-08 20:08:27
once a split egg twin always a split egg twin? best in tight, close
contact.
Title: Wind of Change · Author: Raksha the Demon · Genres: Drama:
General Fixed-Length Ficlets · ID: 47
Reviewer: nancylea · 2008-09-08 20:11:50
so much hope so small a vessel. (aside: could this be one mare reason
she was drawn towards aragorn--such destinies so early in life?)
Title: Wedding Nerves · Author: Jay of Lasgalen · Times: Late Third
Age: Gondor · ID: 48
Reviewer: nancylea · 2008-09-08 20:14:37
little brothers are made for picking on and some times for loving out
of a pickle.
Title: Philosophia to Philomythus and Misomythus · Author:
pandemonium_213 · Genres: Poetry · ID: 50
Reviewer: nancylea · 2008-09-08 20:18:48
or is this advanced studies: gimli/legolas 421 in the college course
schedule?
Title: Trinity · Author: pandemonium_213 · Times: Modern Times · ID: 51
Reviewer: nancylea · 2008-09-08 20:31:55
wow, deep, and so many levels of me have such different feelings about
all the little insights; disgust, fear, terror and strangely NO
HAPPINESS. wow,deep!
Title: For What I Wait · Author: Dawn Felagund · Genres: Alternate
Universe: Angst/Tragedy · ID: 125
Reviewer: Rhapsody · 2008-09-08 20:47:14
Spoilers!
This story hits the reader into the gut and will pierce your heart. To
some who read this, it might hit very close to home. It is so hard to
really let go of someone you love or find understanding as to why
someone would chose for such an end (but who is waiting fro what, the
release or having a son returned?). Mix that with the love of a parent
who tries to find out or mayhap does not want to see the truth until
it is too late. When reading Fëanor's narrative, Dawn carefully
portrays how hard it is to find acceptance when you loose someone
close, even if you know deep down inside you cannot hold them in this
life forever. It just felt that he just hung on to that last shred of
hope, the deeply rooted pain, and fear of loosing someone, ultimately
the pain softens a bit, but the profound missing is there. Feänor just
goes about it, knows where he fails, but he is so far from accepting
the naked truth which I think is the most difficult one to face. Well
the end as he stands there, I think it slowly gets there for him. This
realisation is buried deep inside of Feänor, but when reading it once
more I think it might take a long time when he finally is able to, I
am glad Maglor found his peace, very glad indeed.
The underlying themes of this piece is yet again the folly and
destruction of the oath and there is also the bit of giving life and
letting it go, I think it is something many can identify with. This is
a marvellous piece of writing and a daring AU, simply outstanding
prose that stands out in its intimacy and simplicity.
Title: DISGUISE: Emissaries · Author: Fiondil · Genres: Humor: Valar &
Maiar · ID: 56
Reviewer: nancylea · 2008-09-08 20:54:34
it's always so heartbreaking to see such a good friendship dissolve.
If you have any questions about the archive, or would like to report a technical problem, please contact Aranel (former MEFA Tech Support and current Keeper of the Archive) at araneltook@mefawards.org or at the MEFA Archive group..