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Msg# 9563
MEFA Reviews for Sunday, November 23, 2008 (Part Two) Posted by annmarwalk November 23, 2008 - 18:28:09 Topic ID# 9563Title: Put Aside Your Doubt · Author: sophinisba solis · Races:
Cross-Cultural: Frodo and Faramir · ID: 187
Reviewer: Antane · 2008-11-23 21:32:03
Elrond had said there may find friends unlooked for and indeed they
did. I think Faramir is a hobbit in a man's skin since he is so gentle
and loving as they are, he has a scholar's heart, not a warrior's and
this is why he and Frodo are kindred spirits and can find comfort with
each other. No wonder Frodo slept so well!
Title: If I Had One Wish · Author: Ellie · Times: First Age and Prior:
House of Finwe · ID: 658
Reviewer: Dawn Felagund · 2008-11-23 21:40:09
Spoilers!
As I read Ellie's story, I wondered if it was set after the Fourth
Age, perhaps in Arda Healed. I even checked the MEFA summary ... nope,
First Age. I know Ellie well enough to know that she knows her canon
as well as any Silmarillion author. So I shut off the part of my brain
that seeks to match fanfic to Tolkien and decided to go with it and
see what Ellie did with the story.
I'm glad that I did. The warmth and loveliness of the majority of this
story is fully realized, and I was happily immersed in the fantasy of
it and eager to see how Ellie would make it work. Most of all, though,
I enjoyed the visions that she presented of the Finwions for once in
happy accord. We don't get many happy Silmarillion stories.
The ending had its intended effect. The contrast between the two
sections was immediate, and I finally put the pieces together to
understand what this story was about. The brevity of that final
section is effective, almost like a punch in the gut after the gentle
and whimsical first part of the story. My heart ached for Indis.
Great story, Ellie!
Title: Weathertop · Author: Primsong · Genres: Poetry: Late Third Age
· ID: 597
Reviewer: Antane · 2008-11-23 21:42:13
A well done series of poems, mostly from Frodo's POV, of Weathertop
and its immediate aftermath. His struggle against the terrible mental
assault of five Nazgul is there and his knowledge that more and more
he is in danger of becoming a wraith. There is also a little of Sam's
worry which makes reference to one of the parts in the Red Book that I
like during this time - that Frodo liked the night better because he
wasn't bothered so much by the mist coming between him and his world.
I liked these.
Title: Forsaken · Author: Imhiriel · Races: Elves: Drabbles · ID: 369
Reviewer: Dawn Felagund · 2008-11-23 21:46:18
Spoilers!
Imhiriel is a master of the short form, and I think this piece
demonstrates that. It not only recounts (in 100 words!) the tragic
moments of Finrod's life but, in the midst of this, even
characterizes. Eight words depict Finarfin beautifully: ["Seeing my
father's sorrowful eyes, devoid of reproach"] ... the forgiveness and
wisdom that sets him apart from his brothers.
But that last line--and the key idea of the drabble--is heartbreaking.
I hadn't given much thought to this, but that it signifies Finrod's
greatest failure--the inability to keep and convince the one closest
to him--is sad and compelling. Lovely work, Imhiriel!
Title: A Warm Sun Shining · Author: shirebound · Races: Hobbits:
Post-Ring War · ID: 727
Reviewer: Antane · 2008-11-23 21:49:59
Spoilers!
Lovely ending - Frodo and Sam wrapped up in each other and that kiss
to both of them from Aragorn. I remember that scene in the movie when
he approaches Frodo's room so shyly and hesitantly, like he's
wondering if it's proper that he be there when everyone is there, but
then that lovely smile of smiles and look of love they give each
other. I think Sam would be concerned about his 'place' when others
could see, but they both know his place is right where Frodo - and God
- placed him, right beside his treasure. Indeed that is how Frodo
found comfort on the Quest, in the only safe place there was, in Sam's
arms. Nice touch that Frodo is attuned to Sam's feelings like Sam is
to Frodo's.
Title: Burden · Author: Ancalime8301 · Genres: Drama: Featuring Frodo
or Sam · ID: 734
Reviewer: Claudia · 2008-11-23 21:55:28
I'm so happy to see an mpreg here and am amused by previous reviews.
This is the famous fic that got you thrown off a certain archive, I
think. :) Anyway, I loved how drawn out and angsty and full of
hurt/comfort this fic is, and of course I'll never get tired of Ranger
and hobbit interaction!
Title: Some Confusion in Accounts · Author: viv · Genres: Humor: Other
Fixed-Length Ficlets · ID: 276
Reviewer: Dawn Felagund · 2008-11-23 21:57:32
Spoilers!
Some stories are said to need "beverage warnings." At the conclusion
of Viv's "Some Confusion in Accounts," I made a sound that would be
rather embarrassing to describe (so I won't); suffice to say that, had
I had that infamous beverage in hand, Pengolodh Lord of Gondolin (my
laptop) would now be wearing it.
But this double-drabble has more than a punch at the end. Viv has a
knack for poking fun at the the high-mindedness of Tolkien's
characters and at the Tolkien fan culture itself, and this piece is a
demonstration of that. Phrases like ["arctic eyebrow"] and the easy,
valley-girl voice of the narrator make this story one
snort-inducing-effective piece of humor.
Title: Trouble at Bag End · Author: Angiet · Races: Hobbits: Childhood
· ID: 728
Reviewer: Claudia · 2008-11-23 21:58:12
I think if it is possible to die of a sugar overload on a fic, this
would be the fic! Delightful fluff of the highest order!
Title: Labour of Love · Author: Aprilkat · Races: Cross-Cultural:
Frodo and Faramir · ID: 733
Reviewer: Claudia · 2008-11-23 22:03:13
oooh, I love that you wrote mpreg and I love how spunky Frodo is in
this one! Frodo and Faramir forever! :)
Title: Regarding Ents · Author: PipMer · Races: Hobbits: Post-Ring War
· ID: 525
Reviewer: Antane · 2008-11-23 22:03:24
I've wondered myself how I would describe Ents to someone who doesn't
know. Talking, intelligent trees seems to be the only thing I can come
up with but I know that sounds just too strange and not really true
either. I like this attempt of Merry and Pippin's to explain it all.
Title: National Treasure · Author: Baranduin · Times: Modern Times ·
ID: 201
Reviewer: Claudia · 2008-11-23 22:06:18
Isn't this the story I once called "cute" :) Naw, I was glad to see
this here. It's not cute, it's delightful!
Title: A Matter of Ill Reputation · Author: Lily · Races: Hobbits:
Childhood · ID: 210
Reviewer: PipMer · 2008-11-23 22:28:31
Spoilers!
*snort* Oh my, this was delightful and hilarious! Young Maseric surely
got his comeuppence, didn't he? And well-deserved, too, I must say.
Merimac played the situation perfectly, so as not to seem to have
helped Frodo in his revenge.
Well done.
Title: Good King Elessar · Author: Dreamflower · Races:
Cross-Cultural: Friendship · ID: 2
Reviewer: Claudia · 2008-11-23 22:28:45
This is a delightful interaction between hobbits and men in teh
future. I love these gaps being filled in about what it must have been
like in the north kingdom! :)
Title: Leaving Home · Author: annmarwalk · Races: Men: Steward's
Family · ID: 39
Reviewer: Linda Hoyland · 2008-11-23 22:32:05
This story was sheer delight.Little Elboron was so real I felt he was
in the room!I also loved your Faramir and Eowyn.It is not often one
reads a story told from a child's point of view and this worked
beautifully.A perfect gem!
Title: Put Aside Your Doubt · Author: sophinisba solis · Races:
Cross-Cultural: Frodo and Faramir · ID: 187
Reviewer: Claudia · 2008-11-23 22:33:44
yay, I love this fic so much. I love that scene between Frodo and
Faramir and how tense it was and yet how Faramir turns out to be such
high quality. *happy sigh* And I can see the slash there if I want to,
even though it isn't there. Or I could just be less obnoxious and see
the deep friendship that is meant to be there! :)
Title: The Edge of the Knife · Author: Dwimordene · Genres: Alternate
Universe: Other Fixed-Length Ficlets · ID: 274
Reviewer: Linda Hoyland · 2008-11-23 22:53:19
Spoilers!
I have always had a soft spot for Isildur and wish more writers took
notice of his heroic deeds rather than his one moment of weakness.In
the society of that time,wergilt was an accepted concept and the Ring
did not turn Isildur into a mad tyrant.
These beautifully written drabbles explore the key moments that
Tolkien tells us about in Isildur's life and capture the character
brilliantly.
Title: Pip-napped! · Author: Dreamflower/Lindelea CoAuthors · Genres:
Adventure · ID: 669
Reviewer: Linda Hoyland · 2008-11-23 23:27:50
Spoilers!
Another delightful MEFA discovery! I loved this delightful story in
which Pippin is kidnapped but shows his usual Hobbit resourcefulness.
I especially enjoyed Merry and Pippin's obvious deep bond with Aragorn
and the keen insights into relationships between the sexes.
Title: I Give You a Rainbow · Author: Golden · Races: Hobbits:
Friendship · ID: 571
Reviewer: Linda Hoyland · 2008-11-23 23:35:15
Spoilers!
A delightful warm hearted story in which Pippin attempts to explain
colours to a blind girl.The feel of the colours was spot on and
created a truly multi sensory experience.As a child I used to refer to
grass as "echoing green" in colour. I think most children have the
ability to hear or smell colours,which alas is often lost in later life.
Title: Seaworthy · Author: Thundera Tiger · Races: Elves: Mirkwood
Elves · ID: 349
Reviewer: Dwimordene · 2008-11-24 00:14:29
Spoilers!
A worthy sequel to [Sea of Fate]! Thundera started out as a fan of
Gimli and Legolas, and though that has not changed, her depiction of
the two has gained in depth and complexity. This is a terrific
psychological portrait that turns not on any external action, but on
the internal claiming of Legolas's heart: this is, in a sense, a
reprise of the warning contained in the tale of Aldarion and Erendis,
but with an immortal perspective. Patience will allow Legolas to serve
two masters in turns, rather than be forced to try to juggle them all
at the same time.
Imrahil shows himself to be wise as Tolkien suggested in his brief
portrayal of him, and a good teacher. His use of Amroth is both
natural and inspired, touching on one of those flashpoints in mortal
history, where Elves and Men cross and mark each other's memories.
I do wonder, though, given that Legolas is finally moved to bring
Gimli with him, it seems doubtful that Legolas will ever be wholly at
peace and in one piece. Something in him will always serve another
master. It would be very interesting to see Legolas's thoughts when he
finally prepares to leave Middle-earth with Gimli: does he think of
Imrahil? What does he think of the lesson Imrahil imparted? *flings
nuzgul* Perhaps one day we'll find out...
Cross-Cultural: Frodo and Faramir · ID: 187
Reviewer: Antane · 2008-11-23 21:32:03
Elrond had said there may find friends unlooked for and indeed they
did. I think Faramir is a hobbit in a man's skin since he is so gentle
and loving as they are, he has a scholar's heart, not a warrior's and
this is why he and Frodo are kindred spirits and can find comfort with
each other. No wonder Frodo slept so well!
Title: If I Had One Wish · Author: Ellie · Times: First Age and Prior:
House of Finwe · ID: 658
Reviewer: Dawn Felagund · 2008-11-23 21:40:09
Spoilers!
As I read Ellie's story, I wondered if it was set after the Fourth
Age, perhaps in Arda Healed. I even checked the MEFA summary ... nope,
First Age. I know Ellie well enough to know that she knows her canon
as well as any Silmarillion author. So I shut off the part of my brain
that seeks to match fanfic to Tolkien and decided to go with it and
see what Ellie did with the story.
I'm glad that I did. The warmth and loveliness of the majority of this
story is fully realized, and I was happily immersed in the fantasy of
it and eager to see how Ellie would make it work. Most of all, though,
I enjoyed the visions that she presented of the Finwions for once in
happy accord. We don't get many happy Silmarillion stories.
The ending had its intended effect. The contrast between the two
sections was immediate, and I finally put the pieces together to
understand what this story was about. The brevity of that final
section is effective, almost like a punch in the gut after the gentle
and whimsical first part of the story. My heart ached for Indis.
Great story, Ellie!
Title: Weathertop · Author: Primsong · Genres: Poetry: Late Third Age
· ID: 597
Reviewer: Antane · 2008-11-23 21:42:13
A well done series of poems, mostly from Frodo's POV, of Weathertop
and its immediate aftermath. His struggle against the terrible mental
assault of five Nazgul is there and his knowledge that more and more
he is in danger of becoming a wraith. There is also a little of Sam's
worry which makes reference to one of the parts in the Red Book that I
like during this time - that Frodo liked the night better because he
wasn't bothered so much by the mist coming between him and his world.
I liked these.
Title: Forsaken · Author: Imhiriel · Races: Elves: Drabbles · ID: 369
Reviewer: Dawn Felagund · 2008-11-23 21:46:18
Spoilers!
Imhiriel is a master of the short form, and I think this piece
demonstrates that. It not only recounts (in 100 words!) the tragic
moments of Finrod's life but, in the midst of this, even
characterizes. Eight words depict Finarfin beautifully: ["Seeing my
father's sorrowful eyes, devoid of reproach"] ... the forgiveness and
wisdom that sets him apart from his brothers.
But that last line--and the key idea of the drabble--is heartbreaking.
I hadn't given much thought to this, but that it signifies Finrod's
greatest failure--the inability to keep and convince the one closest
to him--is sad and compelling. Lovely work, Imhiriel!
Title: A Warm Sun Shining · Author: shirebound · Races: Hobbits:
Post-Ring War · ID: 727
Reviewer: Antane · 2008-11-23 21:49:59
Spoilers!
Lovely ending - Frodo and Sam wrapped up in each other and that kiss
to both of them from Aragorn. I remember that scene in the movie when
he approaches Frodo's room so shyly and hesitantly, like he's
wondering if it's proper that he be there when everyone is there, but
then that lovely smile of smiles and look of love they give each
other. I think Sam would be concerned about his 'place' when others
could see, but they both know his place is right where Frodo - and God
- placed him, right beside his treasure. Indeed that is how Frodo
found comfort on the Quest, in the only safe place there was, in Sam's
arms. Nice touch that Frodo is attuned to Sam's feelings like Sam is
to Frodo's.
Title: Burden · Author: Ancalime8301 · Genres: Drama: Featuring Frodo
or Sam · ID: 734
Reviewer: Claudia · 2008-11-23 21:55:28
I'm so happy to see an mpreg here and am amused by previous reviews.
This is the famous fic that got you thrown off a certain archive, I
think. :) Anyway, I loved how drawn out and angsty and full of
hurt/comfort this fic is, and of course I'll never get tired of Ranger
and hobbit interaction!
Title: Some Confusion in Accounts · Author: viv · Genres: Humor: Other
Fixed-Length Ficlets · ID: 276
Reviewer: Dawn Felagund · 2008-11-23 21:57:32
Spoilers!
Some stories are said to need "beverage warnings." At the conclusion
of Viv's "Some Confusion in Accounts," I made a sound that would be
rather embarrassing to describe (so I won't); suffice to say that, had
I had that infamous beverage in hand, Pengolodh Lord of Gondolin (my
laptop) would now be wearing it.
But this double-drabble has more than a punch at the end. Viv has a
knack for poking fun at the the high-mindedness of Tolkien's
characters and at the Tolkien fan culture itself, and this piece is a
demonstration of that. Phrases like ["arctic eyebrow"] and the easy,
valley-girl voice of the narrator make this story one
snort-inducing-effective piece of humor.
Title: Trouble at Bag End · Author: Angiet · Races: Hobbits: Childhood
· ID: 728
Reviewer: Claudia · 2008-11-23 21:58:12
I think if it is possible to die of a sugar overload on a fic, this
would be the fic! Delightful fluff of the highest order!
Title: Labour of Love · Author: Aprilkat · Races: Cross-Cultural:
Frodo and Faramir · ID: 733
Reviewer: Claudia · 2008-11-23 22:03:13
oooh, I love that you wrote mpreg and I love how spunky Frodo is in
this one! Frodo and Faramir forever! :)
Title: Regarding Ents · Author: PipMer · Races: Hobbits: Post-Ring War
· ID: 525
Reviewer: Antane · 2008-11-23 22:03:24
I've wondered myself how I would describe Ents to someone who doesn't
know. Talking, intelligent trees seems to be the only thing I can come
up with but I know that sounds just too strange and not really true
either. I like this attempt of Merry and Pippin's to explain it all.
Title: National Treasure · Author: Baranduin · Times: Modern Times ·
ID: 201
Reviewer: Claudia · 2008-11-23 22:06:18
Isn't this the story I once called "cute" :) Naw, I was glad to see
this here. It's not cute, it's delightful!
Title: A Matter of Ill Reputation · Author: Lily · Races: Hobbits:
Childhood · ID: 210
Reviewer: PipMer · 2008-11-23 22:28:31
Spoilers!
*snort* Oh my, this was delightful and hilarious! Young Maseric surely
got his comeuppence, didn't he? And well-deserved, too, I must say.
Merimac played the situation perfectly, so as not to seem to have
helped Frodo in his revenge.
Well done.
Title: Good King Elessar · Author: Dreamflower · Races:
Cross-Cultural: Friendship · ID: 2
Reviewer: Claudia · 2008-11-23 22:28:45
This is a delightful interaction between hobbits and men in teh
future. I love these gaps being filled in about what it must have been
like in the north kingdom! :)
Title: Leaving Home · Author: annmarwalk · Races: Men: Steward's
Family · ID: 39
Reviewer: Linda Hoyland · 2008-11-23 22:32:05
This story was sheer delight.Little Elboron was so real I felt he was
in the room!I also loved your Faramir and Eowyn.It is not often one
reads a story told from a child's point of view and this worked
beautifully.A perfect gem!
Title: Put Aside Your Doubt · Author: sophinisba solis · Races:
Cross-Cultural: Frodo and Faramir · ID: 187
Reviewer: Claudia · 2008-11-23 22:33:44
yay, I love this fic so much. I love that scene between Frodo and
Faramir and how tense it was and yet how Faramir turns out to be such
high quality. *happy sigh* And I can see the slash there if I want to,
even though it isn't there. Or I could just be less obnoxious and see
the deep friendship that is meant to be there! :)
Title: The Edge of the Knife · Author: Dwimordene · Genres: Alternate
Universe: Other Fixed-Length Ficlets · ID: 274
Reviewer: Linda Hoyland · 2008-11-23 22:53:19
Spoilers!
I have always had a soft spot for Isildur and wish more writers took
notice of his heroic deeds rather than his one moment of weakness.In
the society of that time,wergilt was an accepted concept and the Ring
did not turn Isildur into a mad tyrant.
These beautifully written drabbles explore the key moments that
Tolkien tells us about in Isildur's life and capture the character
brilliantly.
Title: Pip-napped! · Author: Dreamflower/Lindelea CoAuthors · Genres:
Adventure · ID: 669
Reviewer: Linda Hoyland · 2008-11-23 23:27:50
Spoilers!
Another delightful MEFA discovery! I loved this delightful story in
which Pippin is kidnapped but shows his usual Hobbit resourcefulness.
I especially enjoyed Merry and Pippin's obvious deep bond with Aragorn
and the keen insights into relationships between the sexes.
Title: I Give You a Rainbow · Author: Golden · Races: Hobbits:
Friendship · ID: 571
Reviewer: Linda Hoyland · 2008-11-23 23:35:15
Spoilers!
A delightful warm hearted story in which Pippin attempts to explain
colours to a blind girl.The feel of the colours was spot on and
created a truly multi sensory experience.As a child I used to refer to
grass as "echoing green" in colour. I think most children have the
ability to hear or smell colours,which alas is often lost in later life.
Title: Seaworthy · Author: Thundera Tiger · Races: Elves: Mirkwood
Elves · ID: 349
Reviewer: Dwimordene · 2008-11-24 00:14:29
Spoilers!
A worthy sequel to [Sea of Fate]! Thundera started out as a fan of
Gimli and Legolas, and though that has not changed, her depiction of
the two has gained in depth and complexity. This is a terrific
psychological portrait that turns not on any external action, but on
the internal claiming of Legolas's heart: this is, in a sense, a
reprise of the warning contained in the tale of Aldarion and Erendis,
but with an immortal perspective. Patience will allow Legolas to serve
two masters in turns, rather than be forced to try to juggle them all
at the same time.
Imrahil shows himself to be wise as Tolkien suggested in his brief
portrayal of him, and a good teacher. His use of Amroth is both
natural and inspired, touching on one of those flashpoints in mortal
history, where Elves and Men cross and mark each other's memories.
I do wonder, though, given that Legolas is finally moved to bring
Gimli with him, it seems doubtful that Legolas will ever be wholly at
peace and in one piece. Something in him will always serve another
master. It would be very interesting to see Legolas's thoughts when he
finally prepares to leave Middle-earth with Gimli: does he think of
Imrahil? What does he think of the lesson Imrahil imparted? *flings
nuzgul* Perhaps one day we'll find out...
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..