Yahoo Forum Archive

This is an archive of the MEFA Yahoo Group, which was shut down by Yahoo in 2019. The archive can be sorted by month and by topic ID. You can use your browser to search by keyword within the month or topic you have open.

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2004---18210426558925263362316285
20051895610753834744697276194358565136
200623166277611713912756676615979
200720257-297299143318583103
2008561335424014127477516090106
2009283-39194101722722153624
201067-14103138129321316330
20111-172625906132758
201230---812276-----
2013------------
2014---------1-2
2015------------
2016------------
2017------------
2018------------
2019---------1--

Msg# 5016

Thanks, Jes Posted by Anthony Holder August 01, 2005 - 0:35:22 Topic ID# 5016
It's nice to hear that those of you who are new to the group notice.
I'm glad to help. I can't believe how much time I've put into this,
though. I need to stop listening when my wife (Elana) says, "Hey Honey,
do you think you could do something for this group I'm part of?"

Seriously, I enjoy doing it, though sometimes it gets pretty close to
burn out. I was there not long after we kicked this off in April/May,
but I've had a nice rest now.

By the way, I just peeked into the database, and there are, at present:

1247 stories
1063 stories with tentative or final reviews
1102 stories with reviews

3041 total reviews:
315 draft reviews
1781 tentative reviews
945 final reviews

Author Reviews:

295 distinct authors
18 authors with tentative or final reviews
19 authors with reviews

2 draft reviews
1 tentative reviews
57 final reviews

Before voting season starts, I need to finish up the pages that will
let you READ all those reviews. What is currently there won't do at
all. I've already made a lot of progress, and I think you'll all like
it. If it works right, you'll be able to mark the reviews you've
already read, and will not have to sort through them all to find new
ones, but will be able to go back and look at old ones when you want
to.

Before you ask, no you can't read them yet (Not even you, Elana!). When
Voting Season starts, there will magically appear a 'Read Reviews' link
(or several, at appropriate places), and all the final reviews will
become readable. If you want people to be able to read those 1781
tentative reviews at that time, you'll have to go make them final (but
once you do, after Voting Season starts, you won't be able to edit them
any more).

As new final reviews are added, they'll come up at the end of the list.
At midnight after Voting Season is over, all the tentative reviews will
be added to the end of the list (in something sort of related to the
order they were written, but I can't guarantee anything there because
I'm kludging that part on).

In two weeks' time, you should be able to get your eyeballs on those
first 1000 or so final reviews.

Happy Reading,
Anthony

Msg# 5017

Re: Thanks, Jes Posted by ghettoelleth@aol.com August 01, 2005 - 0:52:23 Topic ID# 5016
*Deer in headlights look*
On my best day I can power up and get online without getting a migraine.
You rock Anthony.
Elana, you're a lucky girl. So many women I know in the fanfic world have
husbands who aren't even aware of what they're doing and yours is even
pitching a helping hand. As my husband always tells me when we discuss the lack of
spousal participation, "Every husband should no the joy of playing crash test
dummy for the make-out scenes."

Cheers to you both,
Jes

In a message dated 7/31/2005 10:35:39 P.M. Pacific Standard Time,
aaholder@swbell.net writes:

It's nice to hear that those of you who are new to the group notice.
I'm glad to help. I can't believe how much time I've put into this,
though. I need to stop listening when my wife (Elana) says, "Hey Honey,
do you think you could do something for this group I'm part of?"

Seriously, I enjoy doing it, though sometimes it gets pretty close to
burn out. I was there not long after we kicked this off in April/May,
but I've had a nice rest now.

By the way, I just peeked into the database, and there are, at present:

1247 stories
1063 stories with tentative or final reviews
1102 stories with reviews

3041 total reviews:
315 draft reviews
1781 tentative reviews
945 final reviews

Author Reviews:

295 distinct authors
18 authors with tentative or final reviews
19 authors with reviews

2 draft reviews
1 tentative reviews
57 final reviews

Before voting season starts, I need to finish up the pages that will
let you READ all those reviews. What is currently there won't do at
all. I've already made a lot of progress, and I think you'll all like
it. If it works right, you'll be able to mark the reviews you've
already read, and will not have to sort through them all to find new
ones, but will be able to go back and look at old ones when you want
to.

Before you ask, no you can't read them yet (Not even you, Elana!). When
Voting Season starts, there will magically appear a 'Read Reviews' link
(or several, at appropriate places), and all the final reviews will
become readable. If you want people to be able to read those 1781
tentative reviews at that time, you'll have to go make them final (but
once you do, after Voting Season starts, you won't be able to edit them
any more).

As new final reviews are added, they'll come up at the end of the list.
At midnight after Voting Season is over, all the tentative reviews will
be added to the end of the list (in something sort of related to the
order they were written, but I can't guarantee anything there because
I'm kludging that part on).

In two weeks' time, you should be able to get your eyeballs on those
first 1000 or so final reviews.

Happy Reading,
Anthony





[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]

Msg# 5018

Re: Thanks, Jes Posted by angelabrooks August 01, 2005 - 1:52:57 Topic ID# 5016
--- In MEFAwards@yahoogroups.com, ghettoelleth@a... wrote:

> Elana, you're a lucky girl.

I sure am. :)

>So many women I know in the fanfic world have
> husbands who aren't even aware of what they're doing and yours is even
> pitching a helping hand.

He'll even read my stories if I pester him enough.

As my husband always tells me when we discuss the lack of
> spousal participation, "Every husband should no the joy of playing
crash test
> dummy for the make-out scenes."

Well, yes, he's done some of that too. Not that I always tell him
that's what's going on. ;)

Elana

Msg# 5019

Re: Thanks, Jes Posted by ejackamack@aol.com August 01, 2005 - 5:07:43 Topic ID# 5016
In a message dated 8/1/2005 2:53:09 A.M. Eastern Standard Time,
angelabrooks@yahoo.com writes:

As my husband always tells me when we discuss the lack of
> spousal participation, "Every husband should no the joy of playing
crash test
> dummy for the make-out scenes."

Well, yes, he's done some of that too. Not that I always tell him
that's what's going on. ;)



My husband has very kindly volunteered his services for research in that
department.

Isabeau


[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]

Msg# 5020

Fanfic in the news: Posted by aelfwina@cableone.net August 01, 2005 - 8:01:09 Topic ID# 5020
Fanfic's in the news. Check this out:

http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/magazine/3188813.stm

Dreamflower
(Barbara)

[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]

Msg# 5021

Re: unreviewed stories Posted by BLJean@aol.com August 01, 2005 - 18:47:23 Topic ID# 5021
In a message dated 8/1/2005 4:20:48 PM Pacific Daylight Time,
MEFAwards@yahoogroups.com writes:
By the way, I just peeked into the database, and there are, at present:

1247 stories
1063 stories with tentative or final reviews
1102 stories with reviews
Here's a question for you, dumb perhaps, and I've no idea how easy or
difficult to implement.

When voting season opens, is there a way to filter stories that as yet have
no reviews? I'd love to concentrate my efforts on those--wouldn't it be great
if all the entries got at least one review? Or am I being stupid?

It is just that with so very many stories in the database, no way I'm going
to get to all twelve hundred something. I'm reviewing first the stories I
nominated (seems as if I ought to!) and then the stories that I'm interested in and
then hitting what I have time for, dabbling in "new life and new
civilizations" (or whatever that Star Trek quote was).

In haste (what else is new?),
Lin
making a mental note to go back and check those tentative reviews, to see if
they're ready to turn into final reviews.


[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]

Msg# 5022

Dumb question Posted by BLJean@aol.com August 01, 2005 - 18:48:46 Topic ID# 5022
When does voting season start, again?

I know there was someplace to look up dates, but I'm really rushed off my
feet this week.

I'm thinking it's all over September 30, isn't that right?

Aargh.

Just point me to where the timeline is posted and I'll try to stop asking
stupid questions.

Thanks,
Lin


[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]

Msg# 5023

Re: unreviewed stories Posted by ghettoelleth@aol.com August 01, 2005 - 18:59:47 Topic ID# 5021
In a message dated 8/1/2005 4:47:32 P.M. Pacific Standard Time,
BLJean@aol.com writes:

When voting season opens, is there a way to filter stories that as yet have
no reviews? I'd love to concentrate my efforts on those--wouldn't it be
great
if all the entries got at least one review? Or am I being stupid?



Oh man, now I feel terrible about the reviews i'm sitting on. Havent even
entered them. How sad, poor lil fics. But I'm nervous. I don't want to make
a mistake and blow up the world or something.

jes


[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]

Msg# 5024

Unreviewed stories Posted by Anthony Holder August 02, 2005 - 18:34:34 Topic ID# 5024
Lin,

Anything is possible, but not everything *will* be done.

As far as this goes, I don't know what information you all want. I
COULD give running updates of current number of reviews, and even
current points for stories, but I'm not sure how that would affect
things. Would people be more likely to write reviews for the stories
they like if they can see that they're behind?

I can see ways that having running totals could make things better.
It's kind of like the pennant race in baseball, where you check the
scores every day and see whether your team won or lost, and root for
your team. It might make it more exciting, or people might just ignore
it.

If I were going to do that, it might be good to count the points for
tentative reviews, even though the reviews aren't visible yet, so you
could see what's in the pipeline and not get surprised.

There hasn't been any indication of what the group (or Ainae, for that
matter) wants. Last year, anybody that wanted COULD have counted up the
votes during voting season, and had an idea of how well the stories
they liked were doing, but it was a lot of work, and I'm sure nobody
bothered. Last year, all of the information was in the open. This year,
some of it is hidden, but it doesn't have to be, especially for final
reviews.

I hesitate to mention this, because like I said yesterday, I still have
quite a bit of work to do on things that are necessary, before I could
even think about adding sums and filters/sorting.

I'll sit back and listen, and if you all decide you want to have
running totals, I'll see what I can do. If you want them, I probably
won't get them done until a week or two after voting starts, though.
Also, if you want them, I'll need to have a very clear idea of what to
show, and what to hide.

Later,
Anthony

Msg# 5025

Re: unreviewed stories Posted by rhapsody\_the\_bard August 03, 2005 - 3:55:04 Topic ID# 5021
--- In MEFAwards@yahoogroups.com, ghettoelleth@a... wrote:
>
> In a message dated 8/1/2005 4:47:32 P.M. Pacific Standard Time,
> BLJean@a... writes:
>
>> When voting season opens, is there a way to filter stories that as
>> yet have no reviews? I'd love to concentrate my efforts on
>> those--wouldn't it be great if all the entries got at least one
>> review? Or am I being stupid?
>
> Oh man, now I feel terrible about the reviews i'm sitting on. Havent
> even entered them. How sad, poor lil fics. But I'm nervous. I
> don't want to make a mistake and blow up the world or something.

If you have any doubts about entering them in a system, just let me
know and I will help out. You really have to do weird things with the
system before you blow up the world ;)

As for reviewing: I am so behind on it, so I will just try and do my
best. :c)

Rhapsody

Msg# 5026

Re: Dumb question Posted by Ainaechoiriel August 03, 2005 - 8:55:17 Topic ID# 5022
Voting Season is August 16th through September 30th

Followed by FanArt Season....which means we need banners! I'll make a
separate post.

--Ainaechoiriel
MEFA Admin and Founder

"This evil cannot be concealed by the power of the Elves," Elrond said, "for
it is Windows-compatible, and freeware at that." --H.F.

http://gabrielle.sytes.net/mefa The Middle-Earth Fanfiction Awards

Blog: http://www.ainaechoiriel.blogspot.com



> -----Original Message-----
> From: MEFAwards@yahoogroups.com
> [mailto:MEFAwards@yahoogroups.com] On Behalf Of BLJean@aol.com
> Sent: Monday, August 01, 2005 6:49 PM
> To: MEFAwards@yahoogroups.com
> Subject: [MEFAwards] Dumb question
>
> When does voting season start, again?
>
> I know there was someplace to look up dates, but I'm really
> rushed off my feet this week.
>
> I'm thinking it's all over September 30, isn't that right?
>
> Aargh.
>
> Just point me to where the timeline is posted and I'll try to
> stop asking stupid questions.
>
> Thanks,
> Lin
>
>
> [Non-text portions of this message have been removed]
>
>
>
> ------------------------ Yahoo! Groups Sponsor
> --------------------~--> <font face=arial size=-1><a
> href="http://us.ard.yahoo.com/SIG=12hl2f9av/M=362335.6886444.7
839734.2575449/D=groups/S=1705213040:TM/Y=YAHOO/EXP=1122947327/A=2894362/R=0
/SIG=> 138c78jl6/*http://www.networkforgood.org/topics/arts_culture/?
> source=YAHOO&cmpgn=GRP&RTP=http://groups.yahoo.com/">What
> would our lives be like without music, dance, and
> theater?Donate or volunteer in the arts today at Network for
> Good</a>.</font>
> --------------------------------------------------------------
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Msg# 5027

Re: Unreviewed stories Posted by Ainaechoiriel August 03, 2005 - 9:21:44 Topic ID# 5024
I don't mind a list of stories with 0-2 reviews only. Anything else, keep it
blind. I'd like a daily post of reviews though. People can count them
themselves if they want to keep a running total. I did that once during the
ASC Awards. I won, btw. Ah, those were the good ol' days, when I actually
wrote....

Anyway, I don't want to see a running list of total points per stories. Nor
a list of how many reviews each story has. Just a list of stories with 2 or
fewer reviews if we can manage something like that. If not, just a list of
stories with no reviews. Some intrepid reviewers out there may pick them up
and see if they can review them. Note, no one needs to write any reviews if
they can't think of something good to say about a story.

--Ainaechoiriel
MEFA Admin and Founder

"This evil cannot be concealed by the power of the Elves," Elrond said, "for
it is Windows-compatible, and freeware at that." --H.F.

http://gabrielle.sytes.net/mefa The Middle-Earth Fanfiction Awards

Blog: http://www.ainaechoiriel.blogspot.com



> -----Original Message-----
> From: MEFAwards@yahoogroups.com
> [mailto:MEFAwards@yahoogroups.com] On Behalf Of Anthony Holder
> Sent: Tuesday, August 02, 2005 6:35 PM
> To: MEFAwards@yahoogroups.com
> Subject: [MEFAwards] Unreviewed stories
>
> Lin,
>
> Anything is possible, but not everything *will* be done.
>
> As far as this goes, I don't know what information you all
> want. I COULD give running updates of current number of
> reviews, and even current points for stories, but I'm not
> sure how that would affect things. Would people be more
> likely to write reviews for the stories they like if they can
> see that they're behind?
>
> I can see ways that having running totals could make things better.
> It's kind of like the pennant race in baseball, where you
> check the scores every day and see whether your team won or
> lost, and root for your team. It might make it more exciting,
> or people might just ignore it.
>
> If I were going to do that, it might be good to count the
> points for tentative reviews, even though the reviews aren't
> visible yet, so you could see what's in the pipeline and not
> get surprised.
>
> There hasn't been any indication of what the group (or Ainae, for that
> matter) wants. Last year, anybody that wanted COULD have
> counted up the votes during voting season, and had an idea of
> how well the stories they liked were doing, but it was a lot
> of work, and I'm sure nobody bothered. Last year, all of the
> information was in the open. This year, some of it is hidden,
> but it doesn't have to be, especially for final reviews.
>
> I hesitate to mention this, because like I said yesterday, I
> still have quite a bit of work to do on things that are
> necessary, before I could even think about adding sums and
> filters/sorting.
>
> I'll sit back and listen, and if you all decide you want to
> have running totals, I'll see what I can do. If you want
> them, I probably won't get them done until a week or two
> after voting starts, though.
> Also, if you want them, I'll need to have a very clear idea
> of what to show, and what to hide.
>
> Later,
> Anthony
>
>
>
> ------------------------ Yahoo! Groups Sponsor
> --------------------~--> <font face=arial size=-1><a
> href="http://us.ard.yahoo.com/SIG=12hkdr6vp/M=362335.6886444.7
839734.2575449/D=groups/S=1705213040:TM/Y=YAHOO/EXP=1123032875/A=2894362/R=0
/SIG=> 138c78jl6/*http://www.networkforgood.org/topics/arts_culture/?
> source=YAHOO&cmpgn=GRP&RTP=http://groups.yahoo.com/">What
> would our lives be like without music, dance, and
> theater?Donate or volunteer in the arts today at Network for
> Good</a>.</font>
> --------------------------------------------------------------
> ------~->
>
>
> Yahoo! Groups Links
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>

Msg# 5028

Banners! We need banners! Posted by Ainaechoiriel August 03, 2005 - 9:31:00 Topic ID# 5028
Okay, I think our standard size rule is going out the door next year. I
think it's stymied some creativity. I know it has made it harder for me to
make banners. To date, I've only made 10 and all for one award at that.
Thundera Tiger, on the other hand, has found time for hundreds of reviews
and dozens of banners. I think she's secretly getting at least 3 more hours
in a day than the rest of us.

Anyway, we need banners! And quick. On October 1st, we'll start voting on
them. So we need something to vote on!

These categories don't have ANY banners yet:
Hobbits
Humor
Romance (I've got some in mind for this one)
Non-Fiction
The Hobbit
Lord of the Rings
Post-Ring War

These awards in other categories don't have ANY banners yet:
Rohan: The Helm's Deep Awards (I've got somethign for this one, too)

This is the break down for the categories that at least have some banners
(1st, 2nd, 3rd):
Men: 1,1,1
Elves: 1,3,2
Dwarves: 3,3,2
Villains: 1,1,1
Cross-Cultural: 4,3,2
Gondor: 2,1,2
Rohan: 1,0,1
Adventure: 3,2,1
Horror: 1,1,10
Mystery: 1,1,1
Crossovers: 1,1,2
Alternate Universe: 1,1,2
Movie-verse: 2,2,1
The Silmarillion: 1,1,
Gap-Filler: 3,1,1

And so far I think we have only 2 submitters. Maybe 3. So please, put on
your creativity hats and make some banners!

You can see the current banners at:
http://gabrielle.sytes.net/mefa/awardbanners.html

If you make any, put them in the appropriate folders in the Photos section
of the YahooSite AND e-mail them to me. If you don't e-mail them, I may not
know they are out there. And if I have to get them from the Yahoo site,
their size will probably be distorted and I'll have to edit them, making
them look even more distorted (that happened last year). So e-mail them.
.jpg's please.

See the rules for making banners:
http://home.earthlink.net/~ainae/mefa/ArtContest.html

Thanks!

--Ainaechoiriel
MEFA Admin and Founder

"This evil cannot be concealed by the power of the Elves," Elrond said, "for
it is Windows-compatible, and freeware at that." --H.F.

<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/mefa> http://gabrielle.sytes.net/mefa The
Middle-Earth Fanfiction Awards

Blog: <http://www.ainaechoiriel.blogspot.com/>
http://www.ainaechoiriel.blogspot.com




[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]

Msg# 5029

Re: Banners! We need banners! Posted by Marta Layton August 03, 2005 - 12:18:54 Topic ID# 5028
On 3 Aug 2005, at 10:27, Ainaechoiriel wrote:

> Okay, I think our standard size rule is going out the door next year. 
> I
> think it's stymied some creativity. I know it has made it harder for
> me to
> make banners. To date, I've only made 10 and all for one award at
> that.
> Thundera Tiger, on the other hand, has found time for hundreds of
> reviews
> and dozens of banners.  I think she's secretly getting at least 3
> more hours
> in a day than the rest of us.
>
> Anyway, we need banners! And quick.  On October 1st, we'll start
> voting on
> them.  So we need something to vote on!
>

Hi Ainae,

Can you or anyone else recommend a good program to make banners on
Apple machines? I would love to help out but haven't had a chance to
explore what software is out there. There's probably a basic piece of
software installed, but I haven't figured out how to do it.

If someone can point me toward something like this, I have several
awards I want to do banners for.

Marta
*****
Si hoc legere scis nimium eruditionis habes


[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]

Msg# 5030

Re: Banners! We need banners! Posted by Ainaechoiriel August 03, 2005 - 14:30:53 Topic ID# 5028
Forgot Drama. We don't have any banners for it yet either.

--Ainaechoiriel
MEFA Admin and Founder

"This evil cannot be concealed by the power of the Elves," Elrond said, "for
it is Windows-compatible, and freeware at that." --H.F.

http://gabrielle.sytes.net/mefa The Middle-Earth Fanfiction Awards

Blog: http://www.ainaechoiriel.blogspot.com



> -----Original Message-----
> From: MEFAwards@yahoogroups.com
> [mailto:MEFAwards@yahoogroups.com] On Behalf Of Ainaechoiriel
> Sent: Wednesday, August 03, 2005 9:28 AM
> To: MEFAwards@yahoogroups.com
> Subject: [MEFAwards] Banners! We need banners!
>
> Okay, I think our standard size rule is going out the door
> next year. I think it's stymied some creativity. I know it
> has made it harder for me to make banners. To date, I've only
> made 10 and all for one award at that.
> Thundera Tiger, on the other hand, has found time for
> hundreds of reviews and dozens of banners. I think she's
> secretly getting at least 3 more hours in a day than the rest of us.
>
> Anyway, we need banners! And quick. On October 1st, we'll
> start voting on them. So we need something to vote on!
>
> These categories don't have ANY banners yet:
> Hobbits
> Humor
> Romance (I've got some in mind for this one) Non-Fiction The
> Hobbit Lord of the Rings Post-Ring War
>
> These awards in other categories don't have ANY banners yet:
> Rohan: The Helm's Deep Awards (I've got somethign for this one, too)
>
> This is the break down for the categories that at least have
> some banners (1st, 2nd, 3rd):
> Men: 1,1,1
> Elves: 1,3,2
> Dwarves: 3,3,2
> Villains: 1,1,1
> Cross-Cultural: 4,3,2
> Gondor: 2,1,2
> Rohan: 1,0,1
> Adventure: 3,2,1
> Horror: 1,1,10
> Mystery: 1,1,1
> Crossovers: 1,1,2
> Alternate Universe: 1,1,2
> Movie-verse: 2,2,1
> The Silmarillion: 1,1,
> Gap-Filler: 3,1,1
>
> And so far I think we have only 2 submitters. Maybe 3. So
> please, put on your creativity hats and make some banners!
>
> You can see the current banners at:
> http://gabrielle.sytes.net/mefa/awardbanners.html
>
> If you make any, put them in the appropriate folders in the
> Photos section of the YahooSite AND e-mail them to me. If you
> don't e-mail them, I may not know they are out there. And if
> I have to get them from the Yahoo site, their size will
> probably be distorted and I'll have to edit them, making them
> look even more distorted (that happened last year). So e-mail them.
> .jpg's please.
>
> See the rules for making banners:
> http://home.earthlink.net/~ainae/mefa/ArtContest.html
>
> Thanks!
>
> --Ainaechoiriel
> MEFA Admin and Founder
>
> "This evil cannot be concealed by the power of the Elves,"
> Elrond said, "for it is Windows-compatible, and freeware at
> that." --H.F.
>
> <http://gabrielle.sytes.net/mefa>
> http://gabrielle.sytes.net/mefa The Middle-Earth Fanfiction Awards
>
> Blog: <http://www.ainaechoiriel.blogspot.com/>
> http://www.ainaechoiriel.blogspot.com
>
>
>
>
> [Non-text portions of this message have been removed]
>
>
>
> ------------------------ Yahoo! Groups Sponsor
> --------------------~--> <font face=arial size=-1><a
> href="http://us.ard.yahoo.com/SIG=12ha31tet/M=362335.6886444.7
839734.2575449/D=groups/S=1705213040:TM/Y=YAHOO/EXP=1123086660/A=2894362/R=0
/SIG=> 138c78jl6/*http://www.networkforgood.org/topics/arts_culture/?
> source=YAHOO&cmpgn=GRP&RTP=http://groups.yahoo.com/">What
> would our lives be like without music, dance, and
> theater?Donate or volunteer in the arts today at Network for
> Good</a>.</font>
> --------------------------------------------------------------
> ------~->
>
>
> Yahoo! Groups Links
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>

Msg# 5031

Re: Digest Number 443 Posted by BLJean@aol.com August 03, 2005 - 15:21:33 Topic ID# 5031
In a message dated 8/3/2005 12:07:39 PM Pacific Daylight Time,
MEFAwards@yahoogroups.com writes:
Anyway, I don't want to see a running list of total points per stories. Nor
a list of how many reviews each story has. Just a list of stories with 2 or
fewer reviews if we can manage something like that. If not, just a list of
stories with no reviews. Some intrepid reviewers out there may pick them up
and see if they can review them. Note, no one needs to write any reviews if
they can't think of something good to say about a story.
Yes, this is what I was thinking as well. I don't want to see a running list
of total points; that would drive me up the wall! But if I've reviewed the
stories that interest me most, and I'm looking for more to read, I'd be more
inclined to read those with no reviews, just in the interest of including them, or
not having the authors feel left out, or something of the sort.

I looked at the 2004 site recently and ran across an author who had no
reviews at all, even though that author had more than one story nominated. How sad!

And no, I cannot bring myself to write a review if I can't think of something
good to say! (Echoes of my mom: "If you can't think of anything good to say,
don't say anything at all...")

Thanks,
Lin


[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]

Msg# 5032

Re: Digest Number 443 Posted by C Dodd August 03, 2005 - 16:47:04 Topic ID# 5031
I'd actually prefer just a list of the stories with no reviews at all,
because I'm exactly the sort of person who would read those first...

On 8/3/05, BLJean@aol.com <BLJean@aol.com> wrote:
> In a message dated 8/3/2005 12:07:39 PM Pacific Daylight Time,
> MEFAwards@yahoogroups.com writes:
> Anyway, I don't want to see a running list of total points per stories. Nor
> a list of how many reviews each story has. Just a list of stories with 2 or
> fewer reviews if we can manage something like that. If not, just a list of
> stories with no reviews. Some intrepid reviewers out there may pick them up
> and see if they can review them. Note, no one needs to write any reviews if
> they can't think of something good to say about a story.
> Yes, this is what I was thinking as well. I don't want to see a running list
> of total points; that would drive me up the wall! But if I've reviewed the
> stories that interest me most, and I'm looking for more to read, I'd be more
> inclined to read those with no reviews, just in the interest of including
> them, or
> not having the authors feel left out, or something of the sort.
>
> I looked at the 2004 site recently and ran across an author who had no
> reviews at all, even though that author had more than one story nominated.
> How sad!
>
> And no, I cannot bring myself to write a review if I can't think of
> something
> good to say! (Echoes of my mom: "If you can't think of anything good to say,
> don't say anything at all...")
>
> Thanks,
> Lin
>
>
> [Non-text portions of this message have been removed]
>
>
> ________________________________
> YAHOO! GROUPS LINKS
>
> Visit your group "MEFAwards" on the web.
>
> To unsubscribe from this group, send an email to:
> MEFAwards-unsubscribe@yahoogroups.com
>
> Your use of Yahoo! Groups is subject to the Yahoo! Terms of Service.
> To unsubscribe from this group, send an email to:
> MEFAwards-unsubscribe@yahoogroups.com
>
> Your use of Yahoo! Groups is subject to the Yahoo! Terms of Service.
> Your use of Yahoo! Groups is subject to the Yahoo! Terms of Service.
> ________________________________
>

Msg# 5033

Image editing software for MacOS X Posted by Anthony Holder August 03, 2005 - 19:15:09 Topic ID# 5033
Marta,

Elana has used GraphicConverter in the past. It works pretty well. It
is shareware from LemkeSoft.

I got her a copy of PhotoShop Elements, which she hasn't used much, but
she says it is pretty good. It is about $100.

There's also GIMP, an open source image editor which has a lot of
capabilities, but might be hard to install. I haven't tried it lately,
though, and they might have improved the install process.

We had an older Adobe product (PhotoDeluxe) which came with a scanner.
Elana used that last year, and it worked pretty well.

Later,
Anthony

Msg# 5034

Re: Image editing software for MacOS X Posted by Elena Tiriel August 03, 2005 - 19:33:54 Topic ID# 5033
I have installed GIMP on a Windows PC recently, and it wasn't hard.
My friend (a GIMP geek) thinks that the installation has become
easier overall, but he doesn't use a Mac either.

According to the website at www.gimp.org/macintosh/ the Mac version
runs on OS/X and requires Apple's X11.app (I'm not a Mac person, so
I'm not familiar with the details).

GIMP is a very full-featured graphics package, which is Open Source --
it's free for non-commercial use, which was its major attraction for
me.

Hope this helps!

- Barbara

On 8/3/05, Anthony Holder <aaholder@swbell.net> wrote:
> Marta,
>
> There's also GIMP, an open source image editor which has a lot of
> capabilities, but might be hard to install. I haven't tried it lately,
> though, and they might have improved the install process.
>
> Later,
> Anthony

Msg# 5035

a reviewer's question Posted by chathollinn August 03, 2005 - 20:19:08 Topic ID# 5035
First, many thanks for all the efforts to make this MEFA 2005 so
successful. - I was wondering how to read reviews that have been
finalized. Please excuse such a dumb question. Regards - Chathol-linn

Msg# 5036

Re: a reviewer's question Posted by Marta Layton August 03, 2005 - 21:07:50 Topic ID# 5035
Hi Chathol-linn,

On 3 Aug 2005, at 21:19, chathollinn wrote:

> First, many thanks for all the efforts to make this MEFA 2005 so
> successful.  - I was wondering how to read reviews that have been
> finalized. Please excuse such a dumb question. Regards - Chathol-linn
>

Finalised reviews still aren't visible. They will be visible from the
beginning of voting season (August 15, I think?)

Tentative reviews will be made visible at the end of voting season, and
draft reviews will never be visible.

I'm sure Anthony or Ainae will post more detailed instructions when the
time comes, but my understanding is there will be a link to see the
reviews beside each story listing, under the "Browse Stories" option.
But that will only appear when the time comes.

Marta
*****
Si hoc legere scis nimium eruditionis habes


[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]

Msg# 5037

Re: Image editing software for MacOS X Posted by Marta Layton August 03, 2005 - 21:10:28 Topic ID# 5033
Hi Barbara and Anthony,

Thanks for the recommendations. I will try to install it and play
around with it this weekend.

Marta

On 3 Aug 2005, at 20:33, Elena Tiriel wrote:

> I have installed GIMP on a Windows PC recently, and it wasn't hard.
> My friend (a GIMP geek)  thinks that the installation has become
> easier overall, but he doesn't use a Mac either.
>
> According to the website at www.gimp.org/macintosh/ the Mac version
> runs on OS/X and requires Apple's X11.app (I'm not a Mac person, so
> I'm not familiar with the details).
>
> GIMP is a very full-featured graphics package, which is Open Source --
> it's free for non-commercial use, which was its major attraction for
> me.
>
> Hope this helps!
>
> - Barbara
>
> On 8/3/05, Anthony Holder <aaholder@swbell.net> wrote:
> > Marta,
> >
> > There's also GIMP, an open source image editor which has a lot of
> > capabilities, but might be hard to install. I haven't tried it
> lately,
> > though, and they might have improved the install process.
> >
> > Later,
> > Anthony
>

<snip>
*****
Si hoc legere scis nimium eruditionis habes


[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]

Msg# 5038

Review Counts Posted by Anthony Holder August 03, 2005 - 23:05:27 Topic ID# 5038
As of right now, I don't have any way of filtering or sorting by number
of reviews, because of how/when the number of reviews is looked up, but
I have done the following:

When voting season starts, the 'storiesBrowse' page review column
(which currently says 'N/A') will have a review count showing 0, 1, 2,
>2. You'll be able to click on that review count to read all the
reviews of that story.

When voting season is over, you'll be able to see all the totals,
including incomplete, which are not counted during voting season. I
probably won't show the scores until Counting Season is over, because
we'll want to check the counting procedure and hand-check some counts
to ensure that the system worked as I designed it, before announcing
the scores and the results.

You can always click on the link for just the reviews of a particular
story and count the reviews, if you want. You won't be able to see the
scores until after voting season is over, though.

I've got all of this working now on my development computer, but
haven't sent it to Ainae yet, and you won't be able to use it until
Voting Season starts, in any case.

Now I just have to figure how to do the same for the Author Reviews.
Mostly it'll be copy/paste, which should help.

Anthony

Msg# 5039

Calendar in files section Posted by Marta August 04, 2005 - 22:08:41 Topic ID# 5039
Hey guys,

I noticed a lot of people have asked when certain seasons start this year. Therefore, I've
added a file for easy reference.

1. Go to http://groups.yahoo.com/group/MEFAwards/
2. Click the "files" link on the left side of the page.
3. Click the "2005 Schedule" link.

The basic dates are available as part of the rules at http://home.earthlink.net/~ainae/
mefa/rules.html , and are entered into the calendar at the Yahoo group. But this may be a
simpler-to-use format.

I've also added some notes explaining what you can do during each season. For your
convenience I'll include it at the bottom of this post.

I hope this helps clear up some confusion. Just to be clear, we're in reading season. And
voting season just around the corner! Where does the time go? ;-)

Marta

~*~*~
A. Nomination Season: April 1st through May 15th
(Nominate new pieces to compete in this year's awards. No new nominations accepted
after May 15. Members may cast votes for nominations as they are submitted, but
remember, if the nomination is not finalised it may not actually run in the awards.)

B. Check Ballot Season: May 16th through May 31st
(An administrative season during which staff categorise all nominations into categories
and subcategories. All stories in the voting website are finalised nominations and will run
in this year's MEFAs.)

C. Reading Season: June 1st through August 15th
(Ten weeks for reading all these lovely stories. Members may enter both story and author
votes, but no votes are visible to other members.)

D. Voting Season: August 16th through September 30th
(Finish entering your votes. Final reviews are visible to other members during this season
and cannot be changed after August 16. You may change tentative votes until the end of
the voting season, at the end of which they will be displayed and counted. Draft reviews
must be changed to final or tentative status by the end of this season to count. Also, make
sure to hae all your submissions for the banner contest to Ainae by the end of this
season.)

E. FanArt Season: October 1st through October 15th
(Vote through the Yahoo site to determine which banner will be used for each award.)

F. Awards Results: Announced by October 15th
(Watch the Yahoo group for final results of who won the categories.)

Msg# 5040

Re: Digest Number 445 Posted by BLJean@aol.com August 05, 2005 - 18:48:23 Topic ID# 5040
In a message dated 8/5/2005 2:16:57 PM Pacific Daylight Time,
MEFAwards@yahoogroups.com writes:
noticed a lot of people have asked when certain seasons start this year.
Bless you, Marta. I love easy reference. It makes me feel so much less stupid.

Thanks,
Lin


[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]

Msg# 5041

Re: Digest Number 445 Posted by Marta Layton August 05, 2005 - 19:45:22 Topic ID# 5040
On 5 Aug 2005, at 19:48, BLJean@aol.com wrote:

> In a message dated 8/5/2005 2:16:57 PM Pacific Daylight Time,
> MEFAwards@yahoogroups.com writes:
> noticed a lot of people have asked when certain seasons start this
> year.
> Bless you, Marta. I love easy reference. It makes me feel so much
> less stupid.
>

The honest truth is I'm always looking for those dates myself. I know
it's at Ainae's website, but I can never remember exactly where it is.
So I thought if I put it in the files section it would be easier to
find -- and that other people might appreciate being able to find it,
too. ;-)

I'm glad it can help. It really wasn't hard to do.

Marta
*****
Si hoc legere scis nimium eruditionis habes


[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]

Msg# 5042

Reading Season Closing Soon, 8/10/2005, 12:00 am Posted by MEFAwards@yahoogroups.com August 09, 2005 - 23:41:58 Topic ID# 5042
Reminder Reminder from the Calendar of MEFAwards
Reading Season Closing Soon

Wednesday August 10, 2005
All Day
This event does not repeat.

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Copyright ©  2005  Yahoo! Inc. All Rights Reserved.
Privacy Policy - Terms of Service

Msg# 5043

Server problem? Posted by dwimmer\_laik August 10, 2005 - 9:41:21 Topic ID# 5043
I was just booted off the MEFA server with the following error
messages. Reloading does nothing. Going to the main page gets the same
set of error messages.

Dwim


Warning:
ct_load_class(/Library/WebServer/Documents/MEFA2005/lib/CTSession.ctcls):
failed to open stream: No such file or directory in c:\Program
Files\Apache Group\Apache\mefa\MEFA2005\etc\conftool.inc on line 41

Warning: ct_load_class(): Failed opening
'/Library/WebServer/Documents/MEFA2005/lib/CTSession.ctcls' for
inclusion (include_path='.;c:\Program Files\Apache
Group\Apache\mefa\MEFA2005\etc') in c:\Program Files\Apache
Group\Apache\mefa\MEFA2005\etc\conftool.inc on line 41

Warning:
ct_load_class(/Library/WebServer/Documents/MEFA2005/lib/CTForm.ctcls):
failed to open stream: No such file or directory in c:\Program
Files\Apache Group\Apache\mefa\MEFA2005\etc\conftool.inc on line 41

Warning: ct_load_class(): Failed opening
'/Library/WebServer/Documents/MEFA2005/lib/CTForm.ctcls' for inclusion
(include_path='.;c:\Program Files\Apache
Group\Apache\mefa\MEFA2005\etc') in c:\Program Files\Apache
Group\Apache\mefa\MEFA2005\etc\conftool.inc on line 41

Warning:
ct_load_class(/Library/WebServer/Documents/MEFA2005/lib/CTPerson.ctcls):
failed to open stream: No such file or directory in c:\Program
Files\Apache Group\Apache\mefa\MEFA2005\etc\conftool.inc on line 41

Warning: ct_load_class(): Failed opening
'/Library/WebServer/Documents/MEFA2005/lib/CTPerson.ctcls' for
inclusion (include_path='.;c:\Program Files\Apache
Group\Apache\mefa\MEFA2005\etc') in c:\Program Files\Apache
Group\Apache\mefa\MEFA2005\etc\conftool.inc on line 41

Warning:
ct_load_lib(/Library/WebServer/Documents/MEFA2005/lib/phases.lib):
failed to open stream: No such file or directory in c:\Program
Files\Apache Group\Apache\mefa\MEFA2005\etc\conftool.inc on line 33

Warning: ct_load_lib(): Failed opening
'/Library/WebServer/Documents/MEFA2005/lib/phases.lib' for inclusion
(include_path='.;c:\Program Files\Apache
Group\Apache\mefa\MEFA2005\etc') in c:\Program Files\Apache
Group\Apache\mefa\MEFA2005\etc\conftool.inc on line 33

Warning:
ct_load_lib(/Library/WebServer/Documents/MEFA2005/lib/person.lib):
failed to open stream: No such file or directory in c:\Program
Files\Apache Group\Apache\mefa\MEFA2005\etc\conftool.inc on line 33

Warning: ct_load_lib(): Failed opening
'/Library/WebServer/Documents/MEFA2005/lib/person.lib' for inclusion
(include_path='.;c:\Program Files\Apache
Group\Apache\mefa\MEFA2005\etc') in c:\Program Files\Apache
Group\Apache\mefa\MEFA2005\etc\conftool.inc on line 33

Warning:
ct_load_class(/Library/WebServer/Documents/MEFA2005/lib/CTStory.ctcls):
failed to open stream: No such file or directory in c:\Program
Files\Apache Group\Apache\mefa\MEFA2005\etc\conftool.inc on line 41

Warning: ct_load_class(): Failed opening
'/Library/WebServer/Documents/MEFA2005/lib/CTStory.ctcls' for
inclusion (include_path='.;c:\Program Files\Apache
Group\Apache\mefa\MEFA2005\etc') in c:\Program Files\Apache
Group\Apache\mefa\MEFA2005\etc\conftool.inc on line 41

Warning:
ct_load_class(/Library/WebServer/Documents/MEFA2005/lib/CTReview.ctcls):
failed to open stream: No such file or directory in c:\Program
Files\Apache Group\Apache\mefa\MEFA2005\etc\conftool.inc on line 41

Warning: ct_load_class(): Failed opening
'/Library/WebServer/Documents/MEFA2005/lib/CTReview.ctcls' for
inclusion (include_path='.;c:\Program Files\Apache
Group\Apache\mefa\MEFA2005\etc') in c:\Program Files\Apache
Group\Apache\mefa\MEFA2005\etc\conftool.inc on line 41

Warning:
ct_load_class(/Library/WebServer/Documents/MEFA2005/lib/CTAuthorReview.ctcls):
failed to open stream: No such file or directory in c:\Program
Files\Apache Group\Apache\mefa\MEFA2005\etc\conftool.inc on line 41

Warning: ct_load_class(): Failed opening
'/Library/WebServer/Documents/MEFA2005/lib/CTAuthorReview.ctcls' for
inclusion (include_path='.;c:\Program Files\Apache
Group\Apache\mefa\MEFA2005\etc') in c:\Program Files\Apache
Group\Apache\mefa\MEFA2005\etc\conftool.inc on line 41

Fatal error: Cannot instantiate non-existent class: ctsession in
c:\program files\apache group\apache\mefa\mefa2005\htdocs\index.php on
line 47

Msg# 5044

MEFA2005 software updated Posted by Anthony Holder August 10, 2005 - 22:27:01 Topic ID# 5044
Hey all,

I've sent Ainae the most recent update to the MEFA2005 site. She
installed it this morning, and it overwrote an important configuration
file. We had a backup, but during the time between when she installed
it and we fixed it, the site was unavailable, as Dwim noticed.

FYI, error messages like that are very helpful, but you should probably
send them directly to me, possibly with a cc: to the group.

You won't see too many changes with the update. Most were reading
season things that you've never seen before (because they didn't
exist).

If you nominated more than 10 stories, or had more than 10 of your
stories nominated, the list of stories on the 'overview' page will now
come in pages. The two lists will always be on the same page, and have
the same number per page, because the paging code isn't supposed to
have two lists per webpage.

There may be a few others. I've been collecting various things I've
noticed and people have mentioned while working on the review reading
pages.

Once reading season starts, be sure to let me know asap if there's
anything that doesn't seem to be working right.

Anthony

Msg# 5045

Re: MEFA2005 software updated Posted by dwimmer\_laik August 11, 2005 - 0:08:11 Topic ID# 5044
Thanks, Anthony. I figured it must not have been too serious, since I
could get back in later that day, but for a second there, I was
convinced my browser hated me.

Anyhow, in other site-type news, HASA is down for scheduled server
maintenance tonight. Should be back up tomorrow, but it puts a cramp
in my reading efforts, it does, preciousss!

Dwim

Msg# 5046

Re: Server problem? Posted by Ainaechoiriel August 12, 2005 - 1:46:51 Topic ID# 5043
There was a problem but we think it's fixed now.

--Ainaechoiriel
MEFA Admin and Founder

"This evil cannot be concealed by the power of the Elves," Elrond said, "for
it is Windows-compatible, and freeware at that." --H.F.

http://gabrielle.sytes.net/mefa The Middle-Earth Fanfiction Awards

Blog: http://www.ainaechoiriel.blogspot.com



> -----Original Message-----
> From: MEFAwards@yahoogroups.com
> [mailto:MEFAwards@yahoogroups.com] On Behalf Of dwimmer_laik
> Sent: Wednesday, August 10, 2005 9:41 AM
> To: MEFAwards@yahoogroups.com
> Subject: [MEFAwards] Server problem?
>
> I was just booted off the MEFA server with the following
> error messages. Reloading does nothing. Going to the main
> page gets the same set of error messages.
>
> Dwim
>
>
> Warning:
> ct_load_class(/Library/WebServer/Documents/MEFA2005/lib/CTSess
> ion.ctcls):
> failed to open stream: No such file or directory in
> c:\Program Files\Apache
> Group\Apache\mefa\MEFA2005\etc\conftool.inc on line 41
>
> Warning: ct_load_class(): Failed opening
> '/Library/WebServer/Documents/MEFA2005/lib/CTSession.ctcls'
> for inclusion (include_path='.;c:\Program Files\Apache
> Group\Apache\mefa\MEFA2005\etc') in c:\Program Files\Apache
> Group\Apache\mefa\MEFA2005\etc\conftool.inc on line 41
>
> Warning:
> ct_load_class(/Library/WebServer/Documents/MEFA2005/lib/CTForm.ctcls):
> failed to open stream: No such file or directory in
> c:\Program Files\Apache
> Group\Apache\mefa\MEFA2005\etc\conftool.inc on line 41
>
> Warning: ct_load_class(): Failed opening
> '/Library/WebServer/Documents/MEFA2005/lib/CTForm.ctcls' for
> inclusion (include_path='.;c:\Program Files\Apache
> Group\Apache\mefa\MEFA2005\etc') in c:\Program Files\Apache
> Group\Apache\mefa\MEFA2005\etc\conftool.inc on line 41
>
> Warning:
> ct_load_class(/Library/WebServer/Documents/MEFA2005/lib/CTPers
> on.ctcls):
> failed to open stream: No such file or directory in
> c:\Program Files\Apache
> Group\Apache\mefa\MEFA2005\etc\conftool.inc on line 41
>
> Warning: ct_load_class(): Failed opening
> '/Library/WebServer/Documents/MEFA2005/lib/CTPerson.ctcls'
> for inclusion (include_path='.;c:\Program Files\Apache
> Group\Apache\mefa\MEFA2005\etc') in c:\Program Files\Apache
> Group\Apache\mefa\MEFA2005\etc\conftool.inc on line 41
>
> Warning:
> ct_load_lib(/Library/WebServer/Documents/MEFA2005/lib/phases.lib):
> failed to open stream: No such file or directory in
> c:\Program Files\Apache
> Group\Apache\mefa\MEFA2005\etc\conftool.inc on line 33
>
> Warning: ct_load_lib(): Failed opening
> '/Library/WebServer/Documents/MEFA2005/lib/phases.lib' for
> inclusion (include_path='.;c:\Program Files\Apache
> Group\Apache\mefa\MEFA2005\etc') in c:\Program Files\Apache
> Group\Apache\mefa\MEFA2005\etc\conftool.inc on line 33
>
> Warning:
> ct_load_lib(/Library/WebServer/Documents/MEFA2005/lib/person.lib):
> failed to open stream: No such file or directory in
> c:\Program Files\Apache
> Group\Apache\mefa\MEFA2005\etc\conftool.inc on line 33
>
> Warning: ct_load_lib(): Failed opening
> '/Library/WebServer/Documents/MEFA2005/lib/person.lib' for
> inclusion (include_path='.;c:\Program Files\Apache
> Group\Apache\mefa\MEFA2005\etc') in c:\Program Files\Apache
> Group\Apache\mefa\MEFA2005\etc\conftool.inc on line 33
>
> Warning:
> ct_load_class(/Library/WebServer/Documents/MEFA2005/lib/CTStor
> y.ctcls):
> failed to open stream: No such file or directory in
> c:\Program Files\Apache
> Group\Apache\mefa\MEFA2005\etc\conftool.inc on line 41
>
> Warning: ct_load_class(): Failed opening
> '/Library/WebServer/Documents/MEFA2005/lib/CTStory.ctcls' for
> inclusion (include_path='.;c:\Program Files\Apache
> Group\Apache\mefa\MEFA2005\etc') in c:\Program Files\Apache
> Group\Apache\mefa\MEFA2005\etc\conftool.inc on line 41
>
> Warning:
> ct_load_class(/Library/WebServer/Documents/MEFA2005/lib/CTRevi
> ew.ctcls):
> failed to open stream: No such file or directory in
> c:\Program Files\Apache
> Group\Apache\mefa\MEFA2005\etc\conftool.inc on line 41
>
> Warning: ct_load_class(): Failed opening
> '/Library/WebServer/Documents/MEFA2005/lib/CTReview.ctcls'
> for inclusion (include_path='.;c:\Program Files\Apache
> Group\Apache\mefa\MEFA2005\etc') in c:\Program Files\Apache
> Group\Apache\mefa\MEFA2005\etc\conftool.inc on line 41
>
> Warning:
> ct_load_class(/Library/WebServer/Documents/MEFA2005/lib/CTAuth
> orReview.ctcls):
> failed to open stream: No such file or directory in
> c:\Program Files\Apache
> Group\Apache\mefa\MEFA2005\etc\conftool.inc on line 41
>
> Warning: ct_load_class(): Failed opening
> '/Library/WebServer/Documents/MEFA2005/lib/CTAuthorReview.ctcl
> s' for inclusion (include_path='.;c:\Program Files\Apache
> Group\Apache\mefa\MEFA2005\etc') in c:\Program Files\Apache
> Group\Apache\mefa\MEFA2005\etc\conftool.inc on line 41
>
> Fatal error: Cannot instantiate non-existent class: ctsession
> in c:\program files\apache
> group\apache\mefa\mefa2005\htdocs\index.php on line 47
>
>
>
>
>
> ------------------------ Yahoo! Groups Sponsor
> --------------------~--> <font face=arial size=-1><a
> href="http://us.ard.yahoo.com/SIG=12hr21bvm/M=362335.6886444.7
839734.2575449/D=groups/S=1705213040:TM/Y=YAHOO/EXP=>
1123692082/A=2894362/R=0/SIG=138c78jl6/*http://www.networkforg
ood.org/topics/arts_culture/?>
source=YAHOO&cmpgn=GRP&RTP=http://groups.yahoo.com/">What
> would our lives be like without music, dance, and
> theater?Donate or volunteer in the arts today at Network for
> Good</a>.</font>
> --------------------------------------------------------------
> ------~->
>
>
> Yahoo! Groups Links
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>

Msg# 5047

Re: Calendar in files section Posted by rhapsody\_the\_bard August 13, 2005 - 3:38:20 Topic ID# 5039
--- In MEFAwards@yahoogroups.com, "Marta" <melayton@g...> wrote:
<snip>

> C. Reading Season: June 1st through August 15th
> (Ten weeks for reading all these lovely stories. Members may enter
> both story and author votes, but no votes are visible to other
> members.)
>
> D. Voting Season: August 16th through September 30th
> (Finish entering your votes. Final reviews are visible to other
> members during this season and cannot be changed after August 16.
> You may change tentative votes until the end of the voting season,
> at the end of which they will be displayed and counted. Draft
> reviews must be changed to final or tentative status by the end of
> this season to count. Also, make sure to hae all your submissions
> for the banner contest to Ainae by the end of this season.)

OK, I am confused now (and a bit late with catching up). Until what
date can you write your reviews. The way I read it now, until the end
at the end of reading season. Maybe it is the word votes, in which you
actually mean reviews..

With voting you mean actually: write a review, that is your vote... or
not? I've seen the words and links tentative reviews on the site, but
not the option tentative votes...

Just forgive my muddled brain, but if I can still write my reviews
until the end of September, then I can take it a bit more easy.

Rhapsody

Msg# 5048

Re: Calendar in files section Posted by Marta Layton August 13, 2005 - 11:34:52 Topic ID# 5039
Hi Rhapsody,

On 13 Aug 2005, at 04:38, rhapsody_the_bard wrote:

> --- In MEFAwards@yahoogroups.com, "Marta" <melayton@g...> wrote:
> <snip>
>
> > C. Reading Season: June 1st through August 15th
> > (Ten weeks for reading all these lovely stories. Members may enter
> > both story and author votes, but no votes are visible to other
> > members.)
> >
> > D. Voting Season: August 16th through September 30th
> > (Finish entering your votes. Final reviews are visible to other
> > members during this season and cannot be changed after August 16.
> > You may change tentative votes until the end of the voting season,
> > at the end of which they will be displayed and counted. Draft
> > reviews must be changed to final or tentative status by the end of
> > this season to count. Also, make sure to hae all your submissions
> > for the banner contest to Ainae by the end of this season.)
>
> OK, I am confused now (and a bit late with catching up). Until what
> date can you write your reviews. The way I read it now, until the end
> at the end of reading season. Maybe it is the word votes, in which you
> actually mean reviews..
>
> With voting you mean actually: write a review, that is your vote... or
> not? I've seen the words and links tentative reviews on the site, but
> not the option tentative votes...
>

At the end of reading season, any reviews you have already entered with
the status "final" are set in stone. You can't change those at this
point, and they become visible to everyone.

But you can still change reviews that are tentative or draft, and you
can still enter new reviews. You can even give them the status final
(but if you do that they become set in stone immediately, and you can't
change them later).

And don't forget if you want your draft reviews to be counted, you have
to change them to tentative or final status by the end of voting
season.

I hope that's clearer. How can I make it clearer in the file?

Marta
*****
Si hoc legere scis nimium eruditionis habes


[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]

Msg# 5049

Site time outs? Posted by dwimmer\_laik August 13, 2005 - 22:40:06 Topic ID# 5049
I've been getting site time outs since this afternoon. Is anyone else
having trouble accessing the MEFA site?

Dwim

Msg# 5050

Re: Site time outs? Posted by Ainaechoiriel August 14, 2005 - 0:10:46 Topic ID# 5049
Unfortunately, I haven't been using it enough to know. Let me just take
this opportunity to give an apology to all the authors who are members of
this group. Last year, I gave over 300 reviews. Today, I'm sitting at
something like 30. None of them Author reviews. I have over 500 stories
I'd like to read but may or may not get to this year. Especially the longer
ones. And I love long stories. Sigh. It's just that I'm a much busier
person this year. Taking care of a house by myself, having a boyfriend,
getting in trouble at work (Yes, it finally happened. Gotta do less and
less obvious personal stuff at work. Which, ironically, might get me
reading more.)

So, sorry to all the authors of all the stories I won't get to this year.
And thanks to all the veteran members who have been unconsciously taking up
my slack, and all the new members who will help ensure that most, of not
all, of the nominated stories get read.

--Ainaechoiriel
MEFA Admin and Founder

"This evil cannot be concealed by the power of the Elves," Elrond said, "for
it is Windows-compatible, and freeware at that." --H.F.

http://gabrielle.sytes.net/mefa The Middle-Earth Fanfiction Awards

Blog: http://www.ainaechoiriel.blogspot.com



> -----Original Message-----
> From: MEFAwards@yahoogroups.com
> [mailto:MEFAwards@yahoogroups.com] On Behalf Of dwimmer_laik
> Sent: Saturday, August 13, 2005 10:40 PM
> To: MEFAwards@yahoogroups.com
> Subject: [MEFAwards] Site time outs?
>
> I've been getting site time outs since this afternoon. Is
> anyone else having trouble accessing the MEFA site?
>
> Dwim
>
>
>
>
> ------------------------ Yahoo! Groups Sponsor
> --------------------~--> <font face=arial size=-1><a
> href="http://us.ard.yahoo.com/SIG=12h01dofv/M=362335.6886444.7
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/SIG=> 138c78jl6/*http://www.networkforgood.org/topics/arts_culture/?
> source=YAHOO&cmpgn=GRP&RTP=http://groups.yahoo.com/">What
> would our lives be like without music, dance, and
> theater?Donate or volunteer in the arts today at Network for
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> --------------------------------------------------------------
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Msg# 5051

Re: Site time outs? Posted by chathollinn@comcast.net August 14, 2005 - 6:39:21 Topic ID# 5049
Hi, Ainaechoiriel. No need to 'pologize. If it wasn't for your efforts MEFA wouldn't be there anyway. Regards - Chathol-linn

-------------- Original message --------------
Unfortunately, I haven't been using it enough to know. Let me just take
this opportunity to give an apology to all the authors who are members of
this group. Last year, I gave over 300 reviews. Today, I'm sitting at
something like 30. None of them Author reviews. I have over 500 stories
I'd like to read but may or may not get to this year. Especially the longer
ones. And I love long stories. Sigh. It's just that I'm a much busier
person this year. Taking care of a house by myself, having a boyfriend,
getting in trouble at work (Yes, it finally happened. Gotta do less and
less obvious personal stuff at work. Which, ironically, might get me
reading more.)

So, sorry to all the authors of all the stories I won't get to this year.
And thanks to all the veteran members who have been unconsciously taking up
my slack, and all the new members who will help ensure that most, of not
all, of the nominated stories get read.

--Ainaechoiriel
MEFA Admin and Founder

"This evil cannot be concealed by the power of the Elves," Elrond said, "for
it is Windows-compatible, and freeware at that." --H.F.

http://gabrielle.sytes.net/mefa The Middle-Earth Fanfiction Awards

Blog: http://www.ainaechoiriel.blogspot.com



> -----Original Message-----
> From: MEFAwards@yahoogroups.com
> [mailto:MEFAwards@yahoogroups.com] On Behalf Of dwimmer_laik
> Sent: Saturday, August 13, 2005 10:40 PM
> To: MEFAwards@yahoogroups.com
> Subject: [MEFAwards] Site time outs?
>
> I've been getting site time outs since this afternoon. Is
> anyone else having trouble accessing the MEFA site?
>
> Dwim
>
>
>
>
> ------------------------ Yahoo! Groups Sponsor
> --------------------~--> <font face=arial size=-1><a
> href="http://us.ard.yahoo.com/SIG=12h01dofv/M=362335.6886444.7
839734.2575449/D=groups/S=1705213040:TM/Y=YAHOO/EXP=1123998007/A=2894362/R=0
/SIG=> 138c78jl6/*http://www.networkforgood.org/topics/arts_culture/?
> source=YAHOO&cmpgn=GRP&RTP=http://groups.yahoo.com/">What
> would our lives be like without music, dance, and
> theater?Donate or volunteer in the arts today at Network for
> Good</a>.</font>
> --------------------------------------------------------------
> ------~->
>
>
> Yahoo! Groups Links
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>




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Msg# 5052

MEFA 2005 Site timeouts Posted by Anthony Holder August 15, 2005 - 0:09:40 Topic ID# 5052
Dwim,

I just tested, and noticed a 'maximum execution time' error on the
browse stories page.

I just raised the time limit for all the pages to 180 sec, which should
take care of it, unless the database size increases dramatically.

I'll send the update off to Ainae, and we'll see if it helps.

Anthony

Msg# 5053

two or fewer reviews filter Posted by BLJean@aol.com August 15, 2005 - 7:34:13 Topic ID# 5053
I clicked on the "author" heading to try to alphabetize them by author, but
it doesn't work in this case--perhaps because, as the instructions say, all
other filters are disabled?

I'm very glad for this feature. I've already spotted several summaries that I
missed in the tumbling wealth of treasure.

Is there any significance to the stories that show up bright pink? (as
opposed to all the "blue" stories?)

Thanks,
Lin


[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]

Msg# 5054

Suggestion for next year's database Posted by BLJean@aol.com August 15, 2005 - 7:39:38 Topic ID# 5054
It would be really nice if, on entering a review and hitting the "submit"
button, the database would remember where I was when I clicked on the "review
story" link in the first place, and took me back there, so I don't have to go
through the filtering process over again.

But really, I am amazed at the power and versatility and user-friendliness of
this database.

Kudos,
Lin


[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]

Msg# 5055

<2 reviews, and re-filtering after reviews Posted by Anthony Holder August 15, 2005 - 14:59:30 Topic ID# 5055
Lin,

You are right that the sorting doesn't work with <2 reviews. Sorry, but
the way it is done, it is just too much work to make all that happen.

The bright pink listings are stories that were nominated but for some
reason were not completed (duplicates, etc.). That's another one of the
warnings, or should be. If it is not, let me know and I'll fix it.

Don't review those stories!

When you click to review a story, it SHOULD open a new window for the
review. That way, you can close the window and all your old filters are
still there.

If it doesn't work right, let me know. I'll see if I can figure it out.

In the meantime, you can right-click (ctrl-click for Mac users) and
choose "open link in new window" to get this functionality.

Hope that helps.

Anthony

Msg# 5056

Re: MEFA 2005 Site timeouts Posted by rhapsody\_the\_bard August 15, 2005 - 16:24:13 Topic ID# 5052
--- In MEFAwards@yahoogroups.com, Anthony Holder <aaholder@s...> wrote:
> Dwim,
>
> I just tested, and noticed a 'maximum execution time' error on the
> browse stories page.
>
> I just raised the time limit for all the pages to 180 sec, which
> should take care of it, unless the database size increases
> dramatically.

I don't know if this happened, but I keep on getting timeouts or that
he can't find the server at all for a couple of days. I was reviewing,
saved the one I was typing, then I wanted to browse for another story
and ever since it got the time out messages. The story I was reviewing
was one of the stories I nominated myself. In IE explorer I can't
approach the site at all.

I have no clue why, only that it happens in both IE explorer and
Firefox (in case this matters). I don't know what happened, but it's
weird.

Rhapsody

Msg# 5057

Re: MEFA 2005 Site timeouts Posted by aelfwina@cableone.net August 15, 2005 - 16:28:33 Topic ID# 5052
I've been getting "site not available" for a while now.
Dreamflower
(Barbara)
----- Original Message -----
From: rhapsody_the_bard
To: MEFAwards@yahoogroups.com
Sent: Monday, August 15, 2005 4:24 PM
Subject: [MEFAwards] Re: MEFA 2005 Site timeouts


--- In MEFAwards@yahoogroups.com, Anthony Holder <aaholder@s...> wrote:
> Dwim,
>
> I just tested, and noticed a 'maximum execution time' error on the
> browse stories page.
>
> I just raised the time limit for all the pages to 180 sec, which
> should take care of it, unless the database size increases
> dramatically.

I don't know if this happened, but I keep on getting timeouts or that
he can't find the server at all for a couple of days. I was reviewing,
saved the one I was typing, then I wanted to browse for another story
and ever since it got the time out messages. The story I was reviewing
was one of the stories I nominated myself. In IE explorer I can't
approach the site at all.

I have no clue why, only that it happens in both IE explorer and
Firefox (in case this matters). I don't know what happened, but it's
weird.

Rhapsody





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Msg# 5058

Reading Season Ends/Voting Season Begins!, 8/16/2005, 12:00 am Posted by MEFAwards@yahoogroups.com August 15, 2005 - 23:25:12 Topic ID# 5058
Reminder Reminder from the Calendar of MEFAwards
Reading Season Ends/Voting Season Begins!

Tuesday August 16, 2005
All Day
This event does not repeat.
The next reminder for this event will be sent in 19 minutes.

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Msg# 5059

Reading Season Ends/Voting Season Begins!, 8/16/2005, 12:00 am Posted by MEFAwards@yahoogroups.com August 15, 2005 - 23:41:57 Topic ID# 5058
Reminder Reminder from the Calendar of MEFAwards
Reading Season Ends/Voting Season Begins!

Tuesday August 16, 2005
All Day
This event does not repeat.

ADVERTISEMENT


Copyright ©  2005  Yahoo! Inc. All Rights Reserved.
Privacy Policy - Terms of Service

Msg# 5060

Author Reviews Posted by Leaward August 16, 2005 - 10:47:27 Topic ID# 5060
I notice that some people have entered author reviews that appear
under a single story, while others have entered them for each of the
author's stories. What should be happening? And what will they be
used for? is there an 'author's' award?

Lea

Msg# 5061

Re: Author Reviews Posted by Ainaechoiriel August 16, 2005 - 11:59:03 Topic ID# 5060
Yes, there are Author Awards but not for each story. Say you wrote three
short stories all in the Elf General category. You'd only be elligible once
for the Elf General Author Award.

--Ainaechoiriel
MEFA Admin and Founder

"This evil cannot be concealed by the power of the Elves," Elrond said, "for
it is Windows-compatible, and freeware at that." --H.F.

http://gabrielle.sytes.net/mefa The Middle-Earth Fanfiction Awards

Blog: http://www.ainaechoiriel.blogspot.com



> -----Original Message-----
> From: MEFAwards@yahoogroups.com
> [mailto:MEFAwards@yahoogroups.com] On Behalf Of Leaward
> Sent: Tuesday, August 16, 2005 10:47 AM
> To: MEFAwards@yahoogroups.com
> Subject: [MEFAwards] Author Reviews
>
> I notice that some people have entered author reviews that
> appear under a single story, while others have entered them
> for each of the author's stories. What should be happening?
> And what will they be used for? is there an 'author's' award?
>
> Lea
>
>
>
>
> ------------------------ Yahoo! Groups Sponsor
> --------------------~--> <font face=arial size=-1><a
> href="http://us.ard.yahoo.com/SIG=12hq6l7ee/M=362335.6886444.7
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/SIG=> 138c78jl6/*http://www.networkforgood.org/topics/arts_culture/?
> source=YAHOO&cmpgn=GRP&RTP=http://groups.yahoo.com/">What
> would our lives be like without music, dance, and
> theater?Donate or volunteer in the arts today at Network for
> Good</a>.</font>
> --------------------------------------------------------------
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Msg# 5062

Re: Author Reviews Posted by Leaward August 16, 2005 - 12:43:50 Topic ID# 5060
So is it per main category, or for each sub category ?

So if an author has a story in "BT The Hobbit" and another in "BT The
Hobbit/Vignette ... you could leave two author reviews? One in the
main category and one in the subcategory? Or would you only need one
in BT The Hobbit?

Just trying to figure out how many I need to write ...

Lea

--- In MEFAwards@yahoogroups.com, "Ainaechoiriel" <mefaadmin@e...> wrote:
> Yes, there are Author Awards but not for each story. Say you wrote
three
> short stories all in the Elf General category. You'd only be
elligible once
> for the Elf General Author Award.
>
>
>
>
>
> > -----Original Message-----

> >
> > I notice that some people have entered author reviews that
> > appear under a single story, while others have entered them
> > for each of the author's stories. What should be happening?
> > And what will they be used for? is there an 'author's' award?
> >
> > Lea
> >

Msg# 5063

Re: Author Reviews Posted by C Dodd August 16, 2005 - 14:04:14 Topic ID# 5060
Is this why some authors have duplicate entries in the author reviews?

On 8/16/05, Leaward <leaward_l@yahoo.com> wrote:
>
> So is it per main category, or for each sub category ?
>
> So if an author has a story in "BT The Hobbit" and another in "BT The
> Hobbit/Vignette ... you could leave two author reviews? One in the
> main category and one in the subcategory? Or would you only need one
> in BT The Hobbit?
>
> Just trying to figure out how many I need to write ...
>
> Lea
>
> --- In MEFAwards@yahoogroups.com, "Ainaechoiriel" <mefaadmin@e...> wrote:
> > Yes, there are Author Awards but not for each story. Say you wrote
> three
> > short stories all in the Elf General category. You'd only be
> elligible once
> > for the Elf General Author Award.
> >
> >
> >
> >
> >
> > > -----Original Message-----
>
> > >
> > > I notice that some people have entered author reviews that
> > > appear under a single story, while others have entered them
> > > for each of the author's stories. What should be happening?
> > > And what will they be used for? is there an 'author's' award?
> > >
> > > Lea
> > >
>
>
>
>
>
> SPONSORED LINKS
> Book writing software<http://groups.yahoo.com/gads?t=ms&k=Book+writing+software&w1=Book+writing+software&w2=Business+writing+book&w3=Writing+book&w4=Writing+child+book&w5=Writing+a+book&w6=Creative+writing+book&c=6&s=143&.sig=tMxkKCcxnMDgYJkRIVYqag> Business
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Msg# 5064

error posting to yahoo group Posted by sulriel August 16, 2005 - 14:33:24 Topic ID# 5064
We're Sorry...
There was a problem with your request.

The page you've requested returned this error:

[p_errorhandler.c:32] Where are you coming from?

If you continue to receive this error for more than 48 hours, please
contact our Customer Care team. We apologize for this inconvenience.

Msg# 5065

Re: Author Reviews Posted by sulriel August 16, 2005 - 14:35:06 Topic ID# 5060
--- In MEFAwards@yahoogroups.com, C Dodd <rabidsamfan@v...> wrote:
> Is this why some authors have duplicate entries in the author
reviews?

I think that the author awards are only for the main cates, not the
subs.

and that you can paste the same author review in different cates as
long as it's appropriate. (IOW, if you write specifically about how
well the author writes hobbits, you wouldn't want to paste it in that
author's men's entry without modifying it)

Msg# 5066

Re: Author Reviews Posted by Ainaechoiriel August 16, 2005 - 16:24:06 Topic ID# 5060
Yes for the most part. You can copy author reviews. We made that
concession during Post Mortem last year. As for sub cats there are some, but
not as many. They are for formats only. So there is Author General, Author
Poetry, author Drabble, etc. So if you wrote an Elf Drabble, an Elf Poem
and 3 Elf Short Stories, you'd be in the running for three awards:

Elf Author (for the short stories)
Elf Author Drabble (I think you can figure that one out)
Elf Author Poetry (and that one, too.)

--Ainaechoiriel
MEFA Admin and Founder

"This evil cannot be concealed by the power of the Elves," Elrond said, "for
it is Windows-compatible, and freeware at that." --H.F.

http://gabrielle.sytes.net/mefa The Middle-Earth Fanfiction Awards

Blog: http://www.ainaechoiriel.blogspot.com



> -----Original Message-----
> From: MEFAwards@yahoogroups.com
> [mailto:MEFAwards@yahoogroups.com] On Behalf Of sulriel
> Sent: Tuesday, August 16, 2005 2:35 PM
> To: MEFAwards@yahoogroups.com
> Subject: [MEFAwards] Re: Author Reviews
>
> --- In MEFAwards@yahoogroups.com, C Dodd <rabidsamfan@v...> wrote:
> > Is this why some authors have duplicate entries in the author
> reviews?
>
> I think that the author awards are only for the main cates, not the
> subs.
>
> and that you can paste the same author review in different cates as
> long as it's appropriate. (IOW, if you write specifically about how
> well the author writes hobbits, you wouldn't want to paste it in that
> author's men's entry without modifying it)
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
> ------------------------ Yahoo! Groups Sponsor
> --------------------~-->
> <font face=arial size=-1><a
> href="http://us.ard.yahoo.com/SIG=12hri2ml6/M=362335.6886444.7
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/SIG=> 138c78jl6/*http://www.networkforgood.org/topics/arts_culture/?
> source=YAHOO&cmpgn=GRP&RTP=http://groups.yahoo.com/">What
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> theater?Donate or volunteer in the arts today at Network for
> Good</a>.</font>
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Msg# 5067

Re: Author Reviews Posted by ghettoelleth@aol.com August 16, 2005 - 16:52:51 Topic ID# 5060
In a message dated 8/16/2005 2:24:30 P.M. Pacific Standard Time,
mefaadmin@earthlink.net writes:

Yes for the most part. You can copy author reviews. We made that
concession during Post Mortem last year. As for sub cats there are some, but
not as many. They are for formats only. So there is Author General, Author
Poetry, author Drabble, etc. So if you wrote an Elf Drabble, an Elf Poem
and 3 Elf Short Stories, you'd be in the running for three awards:



Instead of writing a lot of small words, can we just write one big one, like
we used to do when we were little with the cookie dough or pancake batter
after the novelty wore off? I'm so t-i-r-e-d girls, I don't know how you do
it. I'm running out of adjectives quicker than when I'm writing, as well.

Chocolate covered Energy Elves and a can of Red Dwarf to give you wings!
Jesxxx


[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]

Msg# 5068

Re: Author Reviews Posted by dwimmer\_laik August 16, 2005 - 17:26:12 Topic ID# 5060
--- In MEFAwards@yahoogroups.com, "Ainaechoiriel" <mefaadmin@e...> wrote:
> Yes, there are Author Awards but not for each story. Say you wrote
three
> short stories all in the Elf General category. You'd only be
elligible once
> for the Elf General Author Award.

So if I wrote an author review and entered it under each story
(modifying it a little each time), how would that be scored? I'd been
thinking if I ever managed to do author reviews, I'd pick write a
giant one according to category, and paste it into a randomly selected
fic by the appropriate author in the appropriate category.

But it seems as if I could paste that author review in multiple times
within a category and up the character count significantly, or use a
minimally different one each time within a category and end up with
the same result.

Is there a filter for this or will volunteers have to read all these
author reviews and recognize which author reviews by a single reviewer
are the same within a category, which ones by a single reviewer are
problematically similar within categories, and which ones are ok
because they cross categories?

I hope I'm making sense, here.

Dwim

Msg# 5069

Can't enter reviews Posted by aelfwina@cableone.net August 16, 2005 - 18:03:08 Topic ID# 5069
Okay, I've been at it off and on all day. I will do a batch of reviews, or go to finalize a tentative review--everything will go fine for a few minutes, and then I get "page not available" when I hit "save review". It doesn't happen every time--but it's happening more and more. It's very frustrating. Am I doing something wrong?

Dreamflower
(Barbara)

[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]

Msg# 5070

Re: Can't enter reviews Posted by aelfwina@cableone.net August 16, 2005 - 18:04:59 Topic ID# 5069
And *now* I'm getting that when I try to log back onto the site! Grrr...
B.
----- Original Message -----
From: aelfwina@cableone.net
To: MEFAwards@yahoogroups.com
Sent: Tuesday, August 16, 2005 6:03 PM
Subject: [MEFAwards] Can't enter reviews


Okay, I've been at it off and on all day. I will do a batch of reviews, or go to finalize a tentative review--everything will go fine for a few minutes, and then I get "page not available" when I hit "save review". It doesn't happen every time--but it's happening more and more. It's very frustrating. Am I doing something wrong?

Dreamflower
(Barbara)

[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]



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Msg# 5071

Re: Author Reviews Posted by Ainaechoiriel August 16, 2005 - 18:08:22 Topic ID# 5060
That is apparently an unexpected problem with the MEFA2005 site. I'll see
if Anthony can fix it. May take some work. Could I have you guys hold off
on Author Reviews (write them somewhere else for the meantime) while we try
to hammer this out? That way perhaps we can merge the ones that are out
there where we need merging, set them as Draft and then you can rework them
to tentative or final.

--Ainaechoiriel
MEFA Admin and Founder

"This evil cannot be concealed by the power of the Elves," Elrond said, "for
it is Windows-compatible, and freeware at that." --H.F.

http://gabrielle.sytes.net/mefa The Middle-Earth Fanfiction Awards

Blog: http://www.ainaechoiriel.blogspot.com



> -----Original Message-----
> From: MEFAwards@yahoogroups.com
> [mailto:MEFAwards@yahoogroups.com] On Behalf Of dwimmer_laik
> Sent: Tuesday, August 16, 2005 5:26 PM
> To: MEFAwards@yahoogroups.com
> Subject: [MEFAwards] Re: Author Reviews
>
> --- In MEFAwards@yahoogroups.com, "Ainaechoiriel"
> <mefaadmin@e...> wrote:
> > Yes, there are Author Awards but not for each story. Say you wrote
> three
> > short stories all in the Elf General category. You'd only be
> elligible once
> > for the Elf General Author Award.
>
> So if I wrote an author review and entered it under each
> story (modifying it a little each time), how would that be
> scored? I'd been thinking if I ever managed to do author
> reviews, I'd pick write a giant one according to category,
> and paste it into a randomly selected fic by the appropriate
> author in the appropriate category.
>
> But it seems as if I could paste that author review in
> multiple times within a category and up the character count
> significantly, or use a minimally different one each time
> within a category and end up with the same result.
>
> Is there a filter for this or will volunteers have to read
> all these author reviews and recognize which author reviews
> by a single reviewer are the same within a category, which
> ones by a single reviewer are problematically similar within
> categories, and which ones are ok because they cross categories?
>
> I hope I'm making sense, here.
>
> Dwim
>
>
>
>
> ------------------------ Yahoo! Groups Sponsor
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Msg# 5072

Re: Can't enter reviews Posted by Ainaechoiriel August 16, 2005 - 21:07:01 Topic ID# 5069
I've been having some internet outages here at the house (which is where the
MEFA2005 server lives). Not sure what's going on there. So, be sure to
type up your reviews somewhere else if the site is down. We do have a month
and a half for voting so there's still time.

--Ainaechoiriel
MEFA Admin and Founder

"This evil cannot be concealed by the power of the Elves," Elrond said, "for
it is Windows-compatible, and freeware at that." --H.F.

http://gabrielle.sytes.net/mefa The Middle-Earth Fanfiction Awards

Blog: http://www.ainaechoiriel.blogspot.com



> -----Original Message-----
> From: MEFAwards@yahoogroups.com
> [mailto:MEFAwards@yahoogroups.com] On Behalf Of aelfwina@cableone.net
> Sent: Tuesday, August 16, 2005 6:05 PM
> To: MEFAwards@yahoogroups.com
> Subject: Re: [MEFAwards] Can't enter reviews
>
> And *now* I'm getting that when I try to log back onto the
> site! Grrr...
> B.
> ----- Original Message -----
> From: aelfwina@cableone.net
> To: MEFAwards@yahoogroups.com
> Sent: Tuesday, August 16, 2005 6:03 PM
> Subject: [MEFAwards] Can't enter reviews
>
>
> Okay, I've been at it off and on all day. I will do a
> batch of reviews, or go to finalize a tentative
> review--everything will go fine for a few minutes, and then I
> get "page not available" when I hit "save review". It
> doesn't happen every time--but it's happening more and more.
> It's very frustrating. Am I doing something wrong?
>
> Dreamflower
> (Barbara)
>
> [Non-text portions of this message have been removed]
>
>
>
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>
> a.. Visit your group "MEFAwards" on the web.
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Msg# 5073

Anthony, re reviewing and opening windows Posted by BLJean@aol.com August 16, 2005 - 22:05:22 Topic ID# 5073
At the moment, when I click to *read* a story, it opens in a new window. I
read, close the window, and MEFA is still there where I left it.

When I click to *review* a story the review screen appears (in the same
window, not opening a new window), I type in my review, select what type of review
it is, and hit "submit" or whatever you call it, and get dumped back to the
first screen I saw when I signed in, originally. It is not a new window. I have
to re-set the filters and page through the screens of stories to get back to
where I was (if I remember where I was, *g*). I am on a PC, by the way, if that
helps any.

Sulriel told me about the right-click bypass and I will try that the next
time I am reviewing, probably early tomorrow if I don't oversleep (!).

Thank you so much for all you have done. The database is a wonder to use.

Lin

In a message dated 8/16/2005 1:30:23 PM Pacific Daylight Time,
MEFAwards@yahoogroups.com writes:
When you click to review a story, it SHOULD open a new window for the
review. That way, you can close the window and all your old filters are
still there.

If it doesn't work right, let me know. I'll see if I can figure it out.


[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]

Msg# 5074

Anthony, something odd? Posted by BLJean@aol.com August 16, 2005 - 22:24:18 Topic ID# 5074
Was looking at reviews, and clicked on a story to read it, to check on
something, and it opened in the same window, evidently. The strange part is that I
couldn't "back" to get back to MEFA. It was like it got stuck on the first page
of the fic and wouldn't go "back" beyond that.

Had to close the window and go to my "history" to get back to where I'd been
(yes, have learned how to do that recently). (And going back via my "history"
wouldn't even work until I closed the window with the fic in it, altogether.)

Just thought I'd mention it in case it was an anomaly.

Thanks,
Lin


[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]

Msg# 5075

Duplicate Author Reviews Posted by Anthony Holder August 16, 2005 - 23:30:52 Topic ID# 5075
Duplicate Author Reviews:

People have been noticing duplicate author reviews. Here's what's up.

Each story has a link to an author review.

For all stories that are part of the same main category (e.g., BT: The
Hobbit), but are not one of the required subcategories (i.e., drabble,
poem, incomplete), that link points to the same review. On the author
review reading page, you'll see that listed as BT: The Hobbit: General.

Drabble author reviews would come out as BT: The Hobbit: Drabble.

That said, the policy statement is that you can, if you choose, use the
same text for multiple author reviews, rather than writing a new author
review for each category/required subcategory. Thus, some folks have
decided to copy/paste their author review into multiple places.

There is not a 'use this text for all author reviews of this author'
option.

AFAIK, last year Author Reviews had to be more or less independent
(with maybe a bit of duplication being allowed, but not wholesale
duplication).

So Anthony the programmer says:
Author Reviews work exactly as I was told to make them work.

Anthony the person who hasn't, but could, use the site to read/vote on
stories/authors says:
I don't really like the way Author Reviews are set up, but that's the
way people wanted it, and it's really too late now to change it for
this year.

Anthony

Msg# 5076

Links in new windows or reusing windows Posted by Anthony Holder August 17, 2005 - 0:27:27 Topic ID# 5076
Hey all,

Lin has been asking questions about whether the MEFA2005 site should
open new windows or re-use existing windows.

On my system it opens reviews and author reviews in a new window. I use
the target="_blank" code, which works great. (BTW, I noticed a few
instances that used the wrong code for this, and have sent a fix to
Ainae, but they are not for reviews in any case.) It may be that your
browser has overridden this HTML behavior.

If you use Internet Explorer, you may have to right-click and choose
'open in a new window.' I think ctrl-clicking *may* automatically open
in a new window, but I can't remember, because I hardly ever use IE any
more. Ctrl-N will clone the current window. You can do that, then click
on the one you want if it's not opening a new window.

For those of you who use a tabbed browser (Safari or Mozilla/Firefox),
you may prefer to use tabs.

Personally, I like tabbed browsers. With Firefox, if you ctrl-click a
link, it automatically opens in a new tab, saving a menu choice. On my
Mac, holding down command will override the target="_blank" code, and
create a new tab instead.

Safari lets you choose new window/tab in front/back, by holding
command, option and/or shift when you click, tells you exactly what it
is going to do in the status bar before you click, and lets you
override the _blank code.

Experiment a little and find out what you like.

Also, remember that the site has a 2-hour limit on a session, so you
can only take so long writing that review.

You can, however, use the back button, or at least I can in Safari and
Firefox on MacOS X.

Try this: Open a review for editing, set it to draft, and write the
first bit. Then save, and hit back. It'll bring you back to the review,
and you can continue editing, hitting save and back as you go, until
you're done. When you're done, you can hit save, and then back twice to
get to your filters. (Or close the window/tab if it opened a new one.)
Eventually, this might fail due to the 2-hr session limit, but at least
you'll have saved your intermediate copy.

I have used this many times while I've been developing with no ill
effects. The only bad thing would be if you had two windows open
editing the same review, or otherwise are editing something that has
changed in the database, and doing reviews this way won't be a problem.

As far as Lin's most recent issue with the back button not working, it
is possible that the code fix I just sent to Ainae could fix that, but
I'm not really sure what's causing it, so I don't know.

Later,
Anthony

Msg# 5077

Re: Duplicate Author Reviews Posted by Ainaechoiriel August 17, 2005 - 0:53:17 Topic ID# 5075
We can discuss Author Reviews and how they are done in the post mortem as we
did last year, when we decided to keep them but allowing people to copy
them. They are definitely harder to write than story reviews. I guess the
only thing we're missing in Author Awards is viability. Less than 3 authors
per subcategory means inviable. Sorry, if I didn't explain that before. I
had thought about allowing Ficlet where viable and stated by the author.
Which is only a few places. We can IM about it tomorrow if it should be
changed. Right now I'm 48 minutes late getting to bed (thus no posted
reviews tonight, sorry folks) and I've been told I MUST be to work on time,
which means I need to get to sleep.

--Ainaechoiriel
MEFA Admin and Founder

"This evil cannot be concealed by the power of the Elves," Elrond said, "for
it is Windows-compatible, and freeware at that." --H.F.

http://gabrielle.sytes.net/mefa The Middle-Earth Fanfiction Awards

Blog: http://www.ainaechoiriel.blogspot.com



> -----Original Message-----
> From: MEFAwards@yahoogroups.com
> [mailto:MEFAwards@yahoogroups.com] On Behalf Of Anthony Holder
> Sent: Tuesday, August 16, 2005 11:31 PM
> To: MEFAwards@yahoogroups.com
> Subject: [MEFAwards] Duplicate Author Reviews
>
> Duplicate Author Reviews:
>
> People have been noticing duplicate author reviews. Here's what's up.
>
> Each story has a link to an author review.
>
> For all stories that are part of the same main category
> (e.g., BT: The Hobbit), but are not one of the required
> subcategories (i.e., drabble, poem, incomplete), that link
> points to the same review. On the author review reading page,
> you'll see that listed as BT: The Hobbit: General.
>
> Drabble author reviews would come out as BT: The Hobbit: Drabble.
>
> That said, the policy statement is that you can, if you
> choose, use the same text for multiple author reviews, rather
> than writing a new author review for each category/required
> subcategory. Thus, some folks have decided to copy/paste
> their author review into multiple places.
>
> There is not a 'use this text for all author reviews of this author'
> option.
>
> AFAIK, last year Author Reviews had to be more or less
> independent (with maybe a bit of duplication being allowed,
> but not wholesale duplication).
>
> So Anthony the programmer says:
> Author Reviews work exactly as I was told to make them work.
>
> Anthony the person who hasn't, but could, use the site to
> read/vote on stories/authors says:
> I don't really like the way Author Reviews are set up, but
> that's the way people wanted it, and it's really too late now
> to change it for this year.
>
> Anthony
>
>
>
> ------------------------ Yahoo! Groups Sponsor
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/SIG=> 138c78jl6/*http://www.networkforgood.org/topics/arts_culture/?
> source=YAHOO&cmpgn=GRP&RTP=http://groups.yahoo.com/">What
> would our lives be like without music, dance, and
> theater?Donate or volunteer in the arts today at Network for
> Good</a>.</font>
> --------------------------------------------------------------
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>
>
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>
>
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>

Msg# 5078

author reviews? Posted by sulriel August 17, 2005 - 9:04:07 Topic ID# 5078
I'm not sure if we're supposed to report problems or wait on fixes
already in progress.

most of mine seem to be working fine.

I understand that some have been filtered out because of being
duplicates, but there are two that seem to have an error.

that is my author review for Minuialeth, story id#978.
I have saved a review there for her, but the menu still says 'enter
new...' - but when I click on it, I get a message " You are not
authorized to view detailed information on the stories you selected."

also on Leawards story in the romance category. #181

the others seem to be fine, except one I saved for Marnie appears to
be blank - ?? can that be fixed? $245

Thanks, Sulriel.

Msg# 5079

Site down? Posted by aelfwina@cableone.net August 17, 2005 - 13:44:04 Topic ID# 4452
Is the MEFA site *down* or is it just me again? I keep getting "Page not available."

Dreamflower
(Barbara)

[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]

Msg# 5080

Re: Site down? Posted by elliska67 August 17, 2005 - 14:35:14 Topic ID# 4452
I was on a roll doing reviews and then I started getting that too
about an hours ago. I just checked back now and I am still getting it
so it must be down for a power/internet outage. Oh well, my eyes were
crossing anyway. I will go back to reviewing again later.


--- In MEFAwards@yahoogroups.com, <aelfwina@c...> wrote:
> Is the MEFA site *down* or is it just me again? I keep
getting "Page not available."
>
> Dreamflower
> (Barbara)
>
> [Non-text portions of this message have been removed]

Msg# 5081

Daw's story is complete.... Posted by Elena Tiriel August 17, 2005 - 21:59:03 Topic ID# 5081
HI everyone,

I just noticed that Daw the Minstrel's story, "A Spring of Joy" (#
1320) is still in the Incomplete:Novella group. It is complete (and
probably has been since shortly after I nominated it.... sorry that I
didn't notice before!)

- Barbara

Msg# 5082

Re: author reviews? Posted by Ainaechoiriel August 17, 2005 - 22:12:07 Topic ID# 5078
That's really strange. E-mail Anthony directly if he doesn't respond soon.

--Ainaechoiriel
MEFA Admin and Founder

"This evil cannot be concealed by the power of the Elves," Elrond said, "for
it is Windows-compatible, and freeware at that." --H.F.

http://gabrielle.sytes.net/mefa The Middle-Earth Fanfiction Awards

Blog: http://www.ainaechoiriel.blogspot.com



> -----Original Message-----
> From: MEFAwards@yahoogroups.com
> [mailto:MEFAwards@yahoogroups.com] On Behalf Of sulriel
> Sent: Wednesday, August 17, 2005 9:04 AM
> To: MEFAwards@yahoogroups.com
> Subject: [MEFAwards] author reviews?
>
>
> I'm not sure if we're supposed to report problems or wait on
> fixes already in progress.
>
> most of mine seem to be working fine.
>
> I understand that some have been filtered out because of
> being duplicates, but there are two that seem to have an error.
>
> that is my author review for Minuialeth, story id#978.
> I have saved a review there for her, but the menu still says
> 'enter new...' - but when I click on it, I get a message "
> You are not authorized to view detailed information on the
> stories you selected."
>
> also on Leawards story in the romance category. #181
>
> the others seem to be fine, except one I saved for Marnie
> appears to be blank - ?? can that be fixed? $245
>
> Thanks, Sulriel.
>
>
>
>
> ------------------------ Yahoo! Groups Sponsor
> --------------------~--> <font face=arial size=-1><a
> href="http://us.ard.yahoo.com/SIG=12h35bn9s/M=362335.6886444.7
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/SIG=> 138c78jl6/*http://www.networkforgood.org/topics/arts_culture/?
> source=YAHOO&cmpgn=GRP&RTP=http://groups.yahoo.com/">What
> would our lives be like without music, dance, and
> theater?Donate or volunteer in the arts today at Network for
> Good</a>.</font>
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Msg# 5083

Re: Site down? Posted by Ainaechoiriel August 17, 2005 - 22:13:07 Topic ID# 4452
It's not either of you. It's Time Warner or Earthlink. My internet
connection keeps going out and then coming back. The server is just a
computer in my house. So if my connection is down, so is MEFA2005.

--Ainaechoiriel
MEFA Admin and Founder

"This evil cannot be concealed by the power of the Elves," Elrond said, "for
it is Windows-compatible, and freeware at that." --H.F.

http://gabrielle.sytes.net/mefa The Middle-Earth Fanfiction Awards

Blog: http://www.ainaechoiriel.blogspot.com



> -----Original Message-----
> From: MEFAwards@yahoogroups.com
> [mailto:MEFAwards@yahoogroups.com] On Behalf Of elliska67
> Sent: Wednesday, August 17, 2005 2:35 PM
> To: MEFAwards@yahoogroups.com
> Subject: [MEFAwards] Re: Site down?
>
> I was on a roll doing reviews and then I started getting that
> too about an hours ago. I just checked back now and I am
> still getting it so it must be down for a power/internet
> outage. Oh well, my eyes were crossing anyway. I will go back
> to reviewing again later.
>
>
> --- In MEFAwards@yahoogroups.com, <aelfwina@c...> wrote:
> > Is the MEFA site *down* or is it just me again? I keep
> getting "Page not available."
> >
> > Dreamflower
> > (Barbara)
> >
> > [Non-text portions of this message have been removed]
>
>
>
>
> ------------------------ Yahoo! Groups Sponsor
> --------------------~--> <font face=arial size=-1><a
> href="http://us.ard.yahoo.com/SIG=12hb4mau0/M=362335.6886444.7
839734.2575449/D=groups/S=1705213040:TM/Y=YAHOO/EXP=1124314515/A=2894362/R=0
/SIG=> 138c78jl6/*http://www.networkforgood.org/topics/arts_culture/?
> source=YAHOO&cmpgn=GRP&RTP=http://groups.yahoo.com/">What
> would our lives be like without music, dance, and
> theater?Donate or volunteer in the arts today at Network for
> Good</a>.</font>
> --------------------------------------------------------------
> ------~->
>
>
> Yahoo! Groups Links
>
>
>
>
>
>
>

Msg# 5084

Re: Daw's story is complete.... Posted by Ainaechoiriel August 17, 2005 - 22:20:08 Topic ID# 5081
Okay, thanks. I've moved it to Drama: Mirkwood

--Ainaechoiriel
MEFA Admin and Founder

"This evil cannot be concealed by the power of the Elves," Elrond said, "for
it is Windows-compatible, and freeware at that." --H.F.

http://gabrielle.sytes.net/mefa The Middle-Earth Fanfiction Awards

Blog: http://www.ainaechoiriel.blogspot.com



> -----Original Message-----
> From: MEFAwards@yahoogroups.com
> [mailto:MEFAwards@yahoogroups.com] On Behalf Of Elena Tiriel
> Sent: Wednesday, August 17, 2005 9:59 PM
> To: MEFA Awards
> Subject: [MEFAwards] Daw's story is complete....
>
> HI everyone,
>
> I just noticed that Daw the Minstrel's story, "A Spring of Joy" (#
> 1320) is still in the Incomplete:Novella group. It is
> complete (and probably has been since shortly after I
> nominated it.... sorry that I didn't notice before!)
>
> - Barbara
>
>
> ------------------------ Yahoo! Groups Sponsor
> --------------------~--> <font face=arial size=-1><a
> href="http://us.ard.yahoo.com/SIG=12h750m0v/M=362335.6886444.7
839734.2575449/D=groups/S=1705213040:TM/Y=YAHOO/EXP=1124341143/A=2894362/R=0
/SIG=> 138c78jl6/*http://www.networkforgood.org/topics/arts_culture/?
> source=YAHOO&cmpgn=GRP&RTP=http://groups.yahoo.com/">What
> would our lives be like without music, dance, and
> theater?Donate or volunteer in the arts today at Network for
> Good</a>.</font>
> --------------------------------------------------------------
> ------~->
>
>
> Yahoo! Groups Links
>
>
>
>
>
>
>

Msg# 5085

Reviews Final as of 8/17/2005 part 1 Posted by Ainaechoiriel August 17, 2005 - 22:39:28 Topic ID# 5085
Title: Weapons Against The Enemy <http://www.nancybrooke.com/weapons.htm> .
Author: Nancy
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=10
5> Brooke . Books/Time: The Lord of The Rings: Rivendell . ID: 631
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&form_story_filter=631>
Reviewer: sulriel
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=7>
. 2005-04-11 11:59:27 Score: 4
What a wonderful and delightful surprise to find this gem in this long list
of stories. Your writing is engaging and active, your descriptions balanced,
the humor just a pinch over subtle. I love your description of Glorfindel's
laugh, if thunder could be made of sunshine, and i especially was touched by
what he said about Asfaloth being a mighty warrior in his own right.
Overall, an enjoyable and touching view of an evening in the Hall of Fire.

Title: The Highwayman
<http://www.burpingtroll.com/Tales/The%20Highwayman.doc> . Author: ErinRua
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=26
7> . Genres: Humor . ID: 330
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&form_story_filter=330>
Reviewer: sulriel
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=7>
. 2005-04-11 22:12:38 Score: 3
A brillant and refreshing bit of original work set not-quite firmly in
Tolkien's Middle-earth. This is a most excellent example of the best of what
fanfiction can be, fun and entertaining. I somehow stumbled on this gem
early in my fanfic reading and it has remained one of my favorites as time
passes.

Title: All
<http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterview.asp?sid=2929&cid=11235> Hallows'
Day . Author: Marnie
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=24
5> . Books/Time: Post-Ring War . ID: 317
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&form_story_filter=317>
Reviewer: sulriel
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=7>
. 2005-04-11 22:13:05 Score: 3
Chilling and heart breaking and beautiful all in one chapter. Wonderfully in
character. This is an amazing glimpse through the ages, from the depths of
time to current day. This is what JRR Tolkien intended when he set out to
map the mythologies, that we should be able to tie them in to our modern
legends.

Title: Handmaiden of
<http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterlistview.asp?SID=3520> Lorien . Author:
Marnie
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=24
5> . Races/Places: Cross-Cultural . ID: 316
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&form_story_filter=316>
Reviewer: sulriel
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=7>
. 2005-04-11 22:13:58 Score: 2
As always, your talent for characterization and your strengths in being able
to see the 'other side' of an issue come through clearly in this unique
work.

Title: Winter
<http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterview.asp?sid=2807&cid=10858> Encounters
. Author: jastaelf
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=38
> . Races/Places: Elves: Mirkwood . ID: 294
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&form_story_filter=294>
Reviewer: sulriel
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=7>
. 2005-04-11 22:14:28 Score: 2
What a beautiful meeting between two old crusties. . You have a wonderful,
balanced attention to detail, and a special way of looking at the stark
truth with a hint of humor underneath.

Title: The Scruff
<http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterlistview.asp?SID=364> Factor . Author:
jastaelf
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=38
> . Genres: Humor: Aragorn . ID: 293
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&form_story_filter=293>
Reviewer: sulriel
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=7>
. 2005-04-11 22:18:58 Score: 3
This is one of my all-time favorites, that I re-read often, I've passed this
link to many of my friends. Your characterizations of the Dunedain and
Princelings, both Elf and Peredhil are priceless, your descriptions are
exquisite and delicious. I was glad to see this one finished, at long last.

Title: A <http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterview.asp?sid=3581&cid=13572>
Long Tradition of Ancient Lore . Author: Elena
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=24
7> Tiriel . Races/Places: Gondor: Pre-Quest Drabbles . ID: 206
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&form_story_filter=206>
Reviewer: sulriel
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=7>
. 2005-04-11 22:19:40 Score: 2
I don't read a much Faramir and even less Denethor, but this captured
perfectly my own sons. No desire for dry history, but throw in a hero and a
dragon, or a viking or an indian and suddenly it is fun.

Title: Ambush
<http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterview.asp?sid=3581&cid=13573> in
Ithilien . Author: Elena
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=24
7> Tiriel . Genres: Drama (includes Angst): Gondor Drabble . ID: 204
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&form_story_filter=204>
Reviewer: sulriel
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=7>
. 2005-04-11 22:20:47 Score: 2
So heartbreaking, this brief glimpse into history. How terribly tragic. I'm
struck again by the depth of what JRR Tolkien gave us, that something so
rich could come from the tidbits of his histories.

Title: There
<http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterview.asp?sid=3581&cid=13575> and Back
Again . Author: Elena
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=24
7> Tiriel . Races/Places: Cross-Cultural: Drabble . ID: 202
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&form_story_filter=202>
Reviewer: sulriel
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=7>
. 2005-04-11 22:23:55 Score: 2
"A hint of longing" ... isn't that what we all feel for those long-ago days.
Are we so far removed from Middle-earth? I think not. This Wizard and Dwarf,
and Hobbit, are too close to our own hearts not to be real.

Title: Earth
<http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterview.asp?sid=3581&cid=13576> and Sky .
Author: Elena
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=24
7> Tiriel . Races/Places: Cross-Cultural: Drabble . ID: 201
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&form_story_filter=201>
Reviewer: sulriel
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=7>
. 2005-04-11 22:26:53 Score: 2
The beginings of a truely ever-lasting friendship, tested by fire and
standing through the ages. We should all be so blessed.

Title: Alas,
<http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterview.asp?sid=3581&cid=13574> Poor
Ufthak! . Author: Elena
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=24
7> Tiriel . Races/Places: Villains: Drabble . ID: 200
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&form_story_filter=200>
Reviewer: sulriel
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=7>
. 2005-04-11 22:27:25 Score: 2
Oh! This is so wonderfully, delightfully nasty and Orchish. Isn't it
frightening to think that they were once Elves, that there may be something
of an Orchish nature lurking in the best of us?

Title: Triumph
<http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterview.asp?sid=3581&cid=13578> Incarnate
. Author: Elena
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=24
7> Tiriel . Races/Places: Villains: Drabble . ID: 198
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&form_story_filter=198>
Reviewer: sulriel
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=7>
. 2005-04-11 22:28:31 Score: 2
How wonderfully evil. You slipped too easily into Sauron's mind for this
one. very, very scary. (did I mention "very scary?") remind me to
run-away-fast if I ever see you sneer.!

Title: Silver
<http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterview.asp?sid=3581&cid=13577> and Gold .
Author: Elena
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=24
7> Tiriel . Genres: Romance: Drabble . ID: 196
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&form_story_filter=196>
Reviewer: sulriel
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=7>
. 2005-04-11 22:29:01 Score: 2
A beautiful double drabble about one of Middle-earth's most beloved couples.
Will they or won't they? This gives a satisfactory 'final answer' to that
seemingly eternal question.

Title: A <http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterview.asp?sid=3581&cid=13579>
Long, Unexpected Drabble . Author: Elena
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=24
7> Tiriel . Genres: Humor: Metafic . ID: 193
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&form_story_filter=193>
Reviewer: sulriel
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=7>
. 2005-04-11 22:30:51 Score: 5
This drabble is just so much fun, I find myself giggling and rereading it
each time I see it. It is so typical of the obsessive drabbler, I think we
can all see ourselves in the place of the author, trying to figure out the
very special words that will put the specific meaning in the correct word
count. What's canon, what's acceptable, what is not. ... what we can force
in anyway(!). Now I must go off to research chocolate cake, but I'm sure
that Hobbits wouldn't be without something so divine.

Title: Bearer of Bad
<http://www.henneth-annun.net/stories/chapter.cfm?STID=356> Tidings .
Author: LOTR_lover
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=18
4> . Books/Time: Post-Ring War: Aman . ID: 12
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&form_story_filter=12>
Reviewer: Marta
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=16
> . 2005-04-12 08:49:52 Score: 10
I have read a lot of pieces about the Ring-bearers' ship as it approaches
Valinor. Stories about every possible combination between the hobbits,
wizard, and various elves on-board. The kind of interaction you usually find
in these stories touches me particularly because of some things in my
off-line life, but I also love interactions between characters of different
races and cultures, which this setting seems to encourage.

And in stories like this (ones dealing with Elrond, at least), Glorfindel or
some other elf of Rivendell usually helps Elrond deal with the burden of
what he is about to face when he finally reaches Elvenhome. This story does
something that I've seen less of: Elrond receives wisdom from Galadriel. I
know that I often forget that Elrond wasn't the only one bringing Celebrian
bad news. Galadriel was her mother, after all, and Galadriel would have also
been there at Arwen's wedding.

The really innovative thing about this jewel, though, is that the author
doesn't try to address the question of "How the heck am I [Elrond] going to
tell Celebrian about this?" It just recognizes that the problem exists.
Galadriel puts it well: "Arwen has made her choice. Now you have a choice of
your own." In the end, grief is so fundamentally emotional rather than
logical, it's extremely difficult to put it into words without cheapening
the experience. I'm relieved the author didn't try, as I'm not sure anyone
could do it well. I'm not convinced that it *can* be done well.

The other thing I loved so much about this story is that it doesn't descend
into angst. We all know that Elrond and Celebrian have a long road before
them, and a painful road at that, but for the moment at least the author
lets them exist in the moment, and be happy.

Title: Gathering the
<http://www.henneth-annun.net/stories/chapter.cfm?STID=3082> Pieces .
Author: Tehta
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=18
5> . Races/Places: Elves: First Age . ID: 13
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&form_story_filter=13>
Reviewer: Marta
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=16
> . 2005-04-12 10:34:57 Score: 6
The author of this story says in her summary that this is a
Maedhros-sans-hand story that is "darker than most", but when I began
reading this, I think I expected it to be a little more personal. Personal
can be dark, and most post-Thangorodrim stories seem to dwell on the
personal aspect of things.

The way Maedhros kept thinking about how he was going to consolidate support
seemed very believable for him. I also liked how he used even his own
struggles (re-learning how to use the sword, but left-handed) to torment
others (Fingon) as very telling about what his personality might have been
like. This was a nice little gap-filler about a section of history that in
Tolkien's version had failed to really grab my interest.

Title: Greenery <http://www.henneth-annun.net/stories/chapter.cfm?STID=1945>
. Author: Forodwaith
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=50
> . Books/Time: Post-Ring War: Gondor . ID: 14
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&form_story_filter=14>
Reviewer: Marta
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=16
> . 2005-04-12 11:33:39 Score: 5
I'm a sucker for original characters, especially "common" ones, that is
non-nobility. When I write a story it's more for the interesting situation I
get to explore rather than because I find a particular situation appealing,
rather than that I'm interested in a certain character. And this was a good
story with an OC! Helin was funny and down-to-earth, and I found myself
meeting Arwen through her eyes. Like all of Forodwaith's stories it was well
told. I do love these little snapshots into other people's lives.

Title: Thread of
<http://www.henneth-annun.net/stories/chapter.cfm?STID=1272> Fate . Author:
Forodwaith
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=50
> . Genres: Romance: Rivendell . ID: 15
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&form_story_filter=15>
Reviewer: Marta
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=16
> . 2005-04-12 13:52:37 Score: 9
I've read several pieces that deal with Arwen's weaving the standard, and
this is one of the best on that theme I've come across. I couldn't help
comparing it to Dwimordene's "Standards" as I read it, and both of these
pieces are good in their own right. But whereas "Standards" seemed to focus
more on Arwen's musings, the driving force behind "Thread of Fate" is
Arwen's actions. The cutting of diamond, the infusing of the hair, all of
that has some sort of symbolic or emotional significance, but it's still an
action. This made for a very different read. (Not better or worse, just
different, but I liked it nonetheless.)

I did have one quibble about the fact that Elrond completely did not discuss
Arwen's choice with her. I can see her discussing it *at one point* when the
choice was first made, and then going silent. But not totally refusing to
discuss it. He'd need to understand why Arwen was choosing mortality, to
explain it to Celebrian at the very least. (poor, poor Celebrian, just
having this sprung on her when Elrond reaches Valinor! But that's a
different topic...)

Anyway, I loved this story. Especially the revelation by Arwen that she may
not finish in time. That seems like a very mortal thought for an Elf. Nice
segue.

Title: Leavetaking
<http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterview.asp?sid=1887&cid=8127> . Author:
Forodwaith
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=50
> . Genres: Drama (includes Angst): Drabble . ID: 16
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&form_story_filter=16>
Reviewer: Marta
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=16
> . 2005-04-12 14:04:21 Score: 3
Interesting look at the final parting of GIlraen and Elrond. Of course it
had to happen, but I had never really thought out what form it would take. I
especially like the insight that either Elrond or Gilraen would lose their
child - Elrond would lose Arwen forever to the doom of men, or Gilraen would
lose Aragorn to death if he did not succeed.

Title: Cunning Gold <http://www.fanfiction.net/s/1361107/2/> . Author:
Lyllyn
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=18
8> . Books/Time: The Silmarillion: Gondolin . ID: 28
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&form_story_filter=28>
Reviewer: Marta
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=16
> . 2005-04-12 14:32:38 Score: 2
Oh, interesting! I'd never read the Silm quote that this vignette is based
on, but the one presented here certainly makes as much sense as anything I
could dream up.

Title: About <http://www.fanfiction.net/s/1596277/1/> Men . Author: Lyllyn
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=18
8> . Books/Time: The Lord of The Rings: The Shire . ID: 29
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&form_story_filter=29>
Reviewer: Marta
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=16
> . 2005-04-12 14:48:44 Score: 2
Interesting view of Men, here, and effective way of showing how that view
might have evolved in light of new experiences. It makes me wonder how rocky
a marriage Merry and Estella had there at the start.

Title: Alqualonde <http://www.henneth-annun.net/stories/chapter.cfm?STID=56>
. Author: Joan
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=19
0> Milligan . Books/Time: The Silmarillion: Feanor and Sons . ID: 36
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&form_story_filter=36>
Reviewer: Marta
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=16
> . 2005-04-13 10:57:33 Score: 10
Wow. After I finished reading this story, that was the one word that kept
racing through my mind: wow. This is the story that first introduced me to
Silmarillion-based fanfiction, and as far as I'm concerned it has to be one
of the best stories in the fandom. Maybe that's because of when I read it...
I think I had just found HASA, coming from FF.net, and I was browsing
through the archive alphabetically by title. However I found it I was
completely and totally blown away.

When I was rereading it for these awards, I was really impressed by the
first line of the story: "The thing he knew would haunt him all his days was
the smell of it all." This reminded me of Sergeant Jones, a teacher I had in
high school for a course on American warfare in the twentieth century. He
was a Vietnam veteran himself, the son of a man killed at D-day, and "Saving
Private Ryan" was just coming out that year. One of his comments that stayed
with me was that the *only* way that movie could have been more realistic
was if you could somehow have smelled the scenes.

Now, maybe I have an overactive imagination, but I came away from this tiny
little piece with the same image. I could see the crumbling walls, the
ships, the swans, the crawling ivy... and I coud *smell* it, too. It almost
made me physically sick.

Besides that, you've done a truly masterful job in picking your narrator.
The choice of Maglor is perfect. The theme of peace not making good
narrative (a nice reference to "The Hobbit", at least for me) made me wonder
how other soldier-bards handled the violence. Did Elrond perhaps find it
easier to deal with carnage, knowing that he would be able to immortalize it
in song? Maybe "immortalize" is the wrong word, because such songs aren't
really written for sharing, but I'm sure you'll know what I mean.

Rereading this thing makes me want to write a companion piece to it, about
Maedhros' reaction to hearing Maglor call the Kinslaying "magnificent".
Magnificent! I can certainly see why Maglor would see it that way, but I'd
love to really delve into how Maedhros might react to such a statement.

Title: Last Hero <http://www.henneth-annun.net/stories/chapter.cfm?STID=193>
. Author: Joan
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=19
0> Milligan . Races/Places: Rohan . ID: 37
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&form_story_filter=37>
Reviewer: Marta
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=16
> . 2005-04-13 12:39:38 Score: 3
Reading this story and "Alqualonde", I have to wonder whether the author has
been involved in some kind of battle. She describes it with such depth, and
really nails the confusion I imagine would pervade such a situation. This
story was very well done, and really evoked an Eomer I wish would rear his
head more often in fanfic.

Title: No <http://www.gardenofithilien.net/nochoice.html> Other Choice .
Author: LadyAranel
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=15
1> . Races/Places: Cross-Cultural: Drabble . ID: 456
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&form_story_filter=456>
Reviewer: sulriel
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=7>
. 2005-04-13 16:32:11 Score: 2
No other choice indeed, but for these two old enemies to get along, little
knowing how close their sons will become. Great job with the balance of
tension and subtle humor.

Title: Ties That Bind <http://www.gardenofithilien.net/tiesthatbind.html> .
Author: LadyAranel
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=15
1> . Books/Time: Gap-Filler: Drabble . ID: 457
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&form_story_filter=457>
Reviewer: sulriel
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=7>
. 2005-04-13 16:34:54 Score: 2
you put a lot of emotion in so few words. we wonder for a moment if Legolas
is in danger of his grief. he is hurt, as Aragorn asks, -in his heart, where
an Elf is so fragile, but he continues on.

--Ainaechoiriel
MEFA Admin and Founder

"This evil cannot be concealed by the power of the Elves," Elrond said, "for
it is Windows-compatible, and freeware at that." --H.F.

<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/mefa> http://gabrielle.sytes.net/mefa The
Middle-Earth Fanfiction Awards

Blog: <http://www.ainaechoiriel.blogspot.com/>
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Msg# 5086

Reviews Final as of 8/17/2005 part 2 Posted by Ainaechoiriel August 17, 2005 - 22:42:07 Topic ID# 5086
Title: Out of Stone <http://www.gardenofithilien.net/outofstone.html> .
Author: LadyAranel
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=15
1> . Races/Places: Cross-Cultural: Post-War of the Ring . ID: 315
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=1&form_story_filter=315>
Reviewer: sulriel
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=7>
. 2005-04-13 17:11:46 Score: 3
I think I've said it before, but I'll happily say it again, I just love the
'mussed' Legolas. You have ane extraordinary setup here in showing the
balanced blending of stone and growth, how each complimente and enhances the
other, and how wonderful to see that crusty old Gloin can see it as well.

Title: Childhood
<http://www.henneth-annun.net/challenge/chapter_view.cfm?NGID=102&STID=2359&
SPOrdinal=23> Ends . Author: Marnie
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=24
5> . Races/Places: Cross-Cultural: Post-War of the Ring . ID: 474
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=1&form_story_filter=474>
Reviewer: sulriel
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=7>
. 2005-04-13 17:19:59 Score: 4
How wonderful to find something from you that I haven't read, how
heartbreaking to consider the end of an Age, the the Heirs should no longer
be tutored in Rivendell. How agonizing to feel Eldarion's pain at such a
decision, to feel the weight of the ages and the responsibility of not only
the Kingdom of Gondor, but of Mankind. What a shame to come to realize what
must be done.

Title: Dancing in the
<http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterlistview.asp?SID=3025> Darkness .
Author: Marnie
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=24
5> . Races/Places: Cross-Cultural: Pre-War of the Ring . ID: 476
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=1&form_story_filter=476>
Reviewer: sulriel
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=7>
. 2005-04-13 17:24:38 Score: 3
One of the few Elfing-twin stories that I've really enjoyed. I especially
love Celeborn's steady blending and mending of cultures, standing strong and
getting what he wants in his own quiet, bull-headed way. ...shame about the
nakkid dancing, -sigh-

Title: The 10th <http://www.fanfiction.net/s/935655/1/> Walker. . Author:
jillian
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=9>
baade . Books/Time: The Lord of The Rings: Post-Ring War . ID: 499
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=1&form_story_filter=499>
Reviewer: sulriel
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=7>
. 2005-04-13 17:31:11 Score: 2
How wonderful! Go Bill! He must be the most underated member of the
Fellowship. I enjoyed seeing this about him, us horse-people have to stick
together!!

Title: A Gardener's
<http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterlistview.asp?SID=1980> Tale . Author:
Elentari
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=34
6> Greenwood . Races/Places: Hobbits: Fourth Age . ID: 642
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=1&form_story_filter=642>
Reviewer: sulriel
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=7>
. 2005-04-13 21:01:21 Score: 4
What a delightful tale. Your characterization of Sam is wonderful, and I
love how warm and homey, and *Hobbity* your style is, and you maintain it
well through-out. Sam's vision is well done, with smooth transitions. I
especially love his meeting with Celeeborn, you use just the right amount of
compassion and nobility in his speech and actions. It's bittersweet to see
him hand off the Book to Elanor, and sail to spend his last days with Frodo.

Title: Beleg's Doom: or,
<http://www.libraryofmoria.com/turinbeleg/belegsdoom.txt> Most Definitely
Not The Lay Of Turin . Author: Tehta
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=18
5> . Genres: Humor: Metafic . ID: 42
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=1&form_story_filter=42>
Reviewer: Marta
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=16
> . 2005-04-14 14:47:30 Score: 3
"I suppose it is really true, then, what they say about male Men." This
simple statement, and Beleg's subsequent quest to find out what exactly they
*do* say about male men, cracked me up. Nice tying together of arcane canon,
most of which I was completely unaware of until reading this story.

Title: Legacy
<http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterview.asp?sid=1865&cid=9468> . Author:
Elana
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=51
> . Races/Places: Dwarves . ID: 300
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=1&form_story_filter=300>
Reviewer: sulriel
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=7>
. 2005-04-14 22:30:49 Score: 3
Elana, I enjoyed this unique viewpoint of such an underused character. What
an interesting perceptive. You handled the introspection well, coming from
the solidity of a Dwarf to add the feminine touch of home and family. Keep
up the good work!

Title: Enmities
<http://www.henneth-annun.net/challenge/chapter.cfm?STID=4139&NGID=175> .
Author: AmandaK
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=20
9> . Races/Places: Villains: Orcs . ID: 561
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=1&form_story_filter=561>
Reviewer: sulriel
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=7>
. 2005-04-14 22:45:42 Score: 3
Ah, the joys of seemingly eternal re-writing, it seems like it is never
done, but isn't it fun to see the story change and grow, deepen and develop
into more than you thought it could be. You must have know i couldn't resist
a good Orc story, and isn't it great to see how the work pays off!

Title: Touche <http://www.henneth-annun.net/stories/chapter.cfm?STID=3561>
. Author: DragonLady7
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=25
9> . Books/Time: Post-Ring War: Vignette . ID: 229
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=1&form_story_filter=229>
Reviewer: Raksha
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=17
8> the Demon . 2005-04-14 23:06:17 Score: 2
A lively depiction of a fencing match I'd love to see. The fencing seems
very well described. I enjoyed Aragorn's entrance at the end...

Title: Words <http://www.henneth-annun.net/stories/chapter.cfm?STID=2066>
Unsaid . Author: Acacea
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=19
6> . Genres: Drama (includes Angst): Gapfiller . ID: 55
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=1&form_story_filter=55>
Reviewer: Raksha
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=17
8> the Demon . 2005-04-14 23:19:56 Score: 4
Denethor must have felt great remorse and bitterness during the hours he
spent with his wounded, unconscious son; and this vignette brings out the
bereaved father's anguish. The sense of Denethor's being past the end of his
endurance, of having lost too much, and the horrible realization of the pain
he caused Faramir by sending him out without a farewell, is well-written
here.

Title: Patrimony
<http://www.dwimordenespage.org/index.php?go=7&id=19&chapter=1> . Author:
Dwimordene
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=8>
. Races/Places: Gondor: Pre-Quest Drabbles . ID: 247
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=1&form_story_filter=247>
Reviewer: Raksha
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=17
8> the Demon . 2005-04-14 23:37:05 Score: 2
Excellent drabble! It's rare we see young Faramir as a strong-minded little
boy enjoying his father's undivided attention. Nicely done.

Title: Remembrance
<http://www.henneth-annun.net/stories/chapter.cfm?STID=2566> . Author:
Ancalime8301
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=21
4> . Books/Time: Post-Ring War: Gap-Filler . ID: 90
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=1&form_story_filter=90>
Reviewer: Marta
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=16
> . 2005-04-15 08:28:55 Score: 4
I really like this piece. Any presentation of Frodo's sickness is of course
largely fanon or extrapolation, just because Tolkien gives us such few
details, but your version seemed very reasonable. I especially liked the
idea of Frodo's using the book as a way to hold the demons as bay. That it
wasn't just his duty but it was a tool to help him deal with whatever
psychological issues he had. Very perceptive, I think, and very realistic if
my own experience is any indicator.

Title: The End of
<http://www.henneth-annun.net/stories/chapter.cfm?STID=2592> Days . Author:
Bejai
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=23
6> . Books/Time: Post-Ring War: Aman . ID: 158
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=1&form_story_filter=158>
Reviewer: Marta
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=16
> . 2005-04-15 12:58:41 Score: 3
This story is a beautiful, almost poetic, account of the last day. I really
enjoyed how the author weaved Tolkien's references (and inferences from
Tolkien's references) to create a convincing account about what life might
have been like in Aman, long after the last of the Elves took the Straight
Road from Middle-earth.

Title: Beauty <http://www.henneth-annun.net/stories/chapter.cfm?STID=3788>
Mark . Author: Ruby
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=26
2> Nye . Races/Places: Hobbits: Fourth Age . ID: 508
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=1&form_story_filter=508>
Reviewer: Ariel
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=16
2> . 2005-04-15 16:50:02 Score: 5
I read this quite a while ago and never reviewed (bad me!) so I might as
well do it here where it can count for more than just some nice feelings. I
don't know how much I can say about this fic except that it struck me as
very hobbity and proper. The emotions of the two characters in love are very
clearly presented and quite believable, as are all the characters
themselves. Another aspect I thought was quite nice was the fact that it had
a similar feel to Tolkien's own writing though it was definitely its own
style; a happy storytime feel. I think Tolkien would have liked this one a
lot.

Title: Moving Mountains <http://www.scribeoz.com/fanfic/story.php?no=1185>
. Author: SilverMoonLady
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=34
3> . Races/Places: Hobbits . ID: 627
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=1&form_story_filter=627>
Reviewer: Ariel
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=16
2> . 2005-04-15 16:50:25 Score: 10

I beta'ed this, but because SML leaves so little to be done to her fics, I
don't think you could, by rights, consider me biased - unless it is simply
that I am biased towards good fic.

I absolutely ADORE seeing real issues addressed in fanfic. There are things
that you simply know they would have had to deal with and when I find an
author who has the maturity and experience to have dealt with some of them
(or who can fake it well enough to fool me) I am ecstatic! This piece is
heartbreaking, believable and brilliant. The author knows enough of her
stuff to not say anything incorrect (and considering the incredible amount
of misinformation out there about nursing issues, many authors write
incorrect things about it in their fanfics) and is able to bring a
sensitivity and understanding to a subject that few people want to talk
about.

Besides the realism, SilverMoonLady's gentle touch with a fic conveys a deep
respect and empathy for this subject. She is never overbearing with it, but
simply presents facts and conveys the terrible heartbreak those who have to
watch this from the outside and can do nothing. PPD is heartbreaking even
today, with modern medicines and treatments available. SML's presentation is
a very perceptive look at how hobbits might have handled such an issue.

Lovely, heartbreaking and thought provoking. My favorite type of fic!


Title: A Gift at
<http://www.henneth-annun.net/stories/chapter.cfm?STID=682> Year's Turning .
Author: Celandine
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=24
3> Brandybuck . Races/Places: Gondor: Denethor and Finduilas . ID: 186
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=1&form_story_filter=186>
Reviewer: Raksha
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=17
8> the Demon . 2005-04-16 04:30:20 Score: 2
A charming story that really makes the reader feel at home in the White
Tower. I loved the details; and the foreshadowing of Finduilas' eventual
death is well done, a subtle shadow on the joy surrounding Faramir's
birth...

Title: Love
<http://www.henneth-annun.net/stories/chapter_view.cfm?STID=4819&SPOrdinal=1
> Me and Despair . Author: EdorasLass
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=29
9> . Genres: Alternate Universe: Elves . ID: 645
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=1&form_story_filter=645>
Reviewer: Raksha
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=17
8> the Demon . 2005-04-16 04:35:33 Score: 2
A chilling look at the road I'm very glad that Galadriel didn't take.
Excellent depiction of the glamor she's put on most of our heroes, and the
torment and death she's unleashed upon the world.

Title: Sand-castles
<http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterview.asp?sid=3484&cid=13220> when the
tide is flowing . Author: Tanaqui
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=40
> . Races/Places: Gondor: Pre-Quest Drabbles . ID: 549
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=1&form_story_filter=549>
Reviewer: Raksha
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=17
8> the Demon . 2005-04-16 04:41:34 Score: 1
Excellent drabble, illuminating and foreshadowing the different destinies of
Gondor's favorite sons.

Title: A <http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterview.asp?sid=3484&cid=13216>
Warrior's Skills . Author: Tanaqui
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=40
> . Races/Places: Gondor: Pre-Quest Drabbles . ID: 551
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=1&form_story_filter=551>
Reviewer: Raksha
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=17
8> the Demon . 2005-04-16 04:43:06 Score: 2
One of my favorite Faramir drabbles! I love the way you highlight his skills
as leader and singer, and all in a hundred words!

Title: Natural
<http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterview.asp?sid=3140&cid=12145> History .
Author: annmarwalk
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=17
7> . Genres: Drama (includes Angst): Fourth Age . ID: 112
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=1&form_story_filter=112>
Reviewer: Raksha
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=17
8> the Demon . 2005-04-16 04:48:57 Score: 3
A charming glimpse of a stage in Faramir's life we rarely see - grandfather
to a new generation bred in the peace of the King's reign. Faramir obviously
enjoys his role as grandfather and teacher to young Barahir...Their
relationship is well-written here.

Title: Breaking the Rules
<http://www.geocities.com/sotto-voce/news0830.html> (Harry Potter Exhibition
Game) . Author: Bubbles
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=14
9> . Races/Places: Cross-Cultural: Humor . ID: 276
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=1&form_story_filter=276>
Reviewer: Raksha
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=17
8> the Demon . 2005-04-16 05:07:26 Score: 3
Hilarious! More fun than a barrel of balrogs! I hope Legolas gave Strider
and Snape a tutorial on proper hair care - they both could use it! I can
just see a Gandalf/Dumbledore smackdown, too! And the poor Dead Guys Boromir
and Sirius sitting out the game.

Title: Legacy <http://www.henneth-annun.net/stories/chapter.cfm?STID=1746>
. Author: Acacea
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=19
6> . Books/Time: Post-Ring War: Gondor . ID: 282
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=1&form_story_filter=282>
Reviewer: Marta
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=16
> . 2005-04-16 08:48:04 Score: 7
I have often wondered how it was that Faramir came to have Finduilas's
cloak. I can see Denethor putting it into storage (if he didn't destroy it),
but in that case I don't think Faramir would naturally think to retrieve it,
especailly so soon after Denethor's death. If it was sent to Dol Amroth
Faramir wouldn't have any easy access to it, and if Boromir had kept it he
wouldn't have had any good reason to give it to Faramir before seeking
Rivendell; after all, it wasn't like he thought he would die.

This story provides a very neat explanation for how Faramir, who had only
the haziest of memories concerning Finduilas, came by the cloak. It's also a
beautiful tale about instilling memories of the past in his son, and about
the value of legacy. And besides, it has a realistic portrayal of Denethor
without making him into a monster -- something I appreciate very much! All
in all a good tale.

Title: Restoration
<http://www.henneth-annun.net/stories/chapter.cfm?STID=2989> . Author:
Acacea
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=19
6> . Books/Time: Post-Ring War: Gap-Filler . ID: 288
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=1&form_story_filter=288>
Reviewer: Marta
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=16
> . 2005-04-17 07:12:08 Score: 7
This is a really nice amalgamation of Faramir's comments about wishing to
see the White Tree in bloom again (to Frodo at Henneth Annun), and Aragorn's
and Gandalf's actually finding the White Tree again on the slopes of
Mindolluin. I particularly liked Faramir's remembrances of Boromir -- not
too angsty, which is a very nice change to see these days, when so many
authors portray Faramir as having nothing but the unhappiest memories for
his brother. I think he'd have those, too, but other memories besides. And
it was a nice touch to introduce how Faramir would help Aragorn with
politics -- that is another thing that I often find missing, or else at the
forefront; most people have a hard time keeping it in the background without
banishing it completely. I know I do. Anyway, this was a very nice read.



[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]

Msg# 5087

Reviews Final as of 8/17/2005 part 3 Posted by Ainaechoiriel August 17, 2005 - 22:43:12 Topic ID# 5087
Title: Turning the
<http://www.henneth-annun.net/stories/chapter.cfm?STID=968> Page . Author:
ErinRua
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=26
7> . Books/Time: Post-Ring War: Gondor . ID: 337
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=2&form_story_filter=337>
Reviewer: Marta
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=16
> . 2005-04-17 07:15:05 Score: 4
This is certainly Eomer, but a more mellowed Eomer. I still see traces of
the hot-headed youth who dominates his character at times in "The Lord of
the Rings", the one who cried "death!" at Pelennor -- but I also see an old
man, remarkably at peace in a world that is no longer governed by the sword
as much as the one he was born into was. It's a testament to a new age, and
is beautifully told.

Title: Telling the
<http://www.henneth-annun.net/stories/chapter.cfm?STID=2068> Bees . Author:
Fileg
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=10
6> . Books/Time: Post-Ring War: Shire . ID: 343
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=2&form_story_filter=343>
Reviewer: Marta
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=16
> . 2005-04-17 08:20:08 Score: 4
I was not familiar with this custom before reading this story. If it is a
true one (and given the author, I am tempted to assume it is), then it is
beautifully connected to canonical events and to the Shire culture. And I
for one really like the idea of hobbit traditions forming the basis for
Celtic beliefs, at least in part, since Hobbits would have inhabited the
area before the Celts. It is a very nice touch.

Title: Passages <http://www.henneth-annun.net/stories/chapter.cfm?STID=3759>
. Author: Flick
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=37
> . Books/Time: Post-Ring War: Vignette . ID: 352
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=2&form_story_filter=352>
Reviewer: Marta
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=16
> . 2005-04-17 08:26:00 Score: 6
This story has a lovely mythic quality about it, right up until the end. I
wish the author could have maintained that through the final conversation
between Legolas and Gimli -- maybe not reporting the whole thing, keeping a
little more distance. Regardless, it's a nice piece, and has many good
insights into the waning days of The Fellowship. I can't decide whether the
love between Aragorn and Legolas is supposed to be erotic, courtly, or
simply just a very close friendship. Whatever it is, it's beautiful, all the
more so because it does not dominate. There are not enough non-romance
pieces about Legolas, and this was a wonderful glimpse.

Title: Faint
<http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterview.asp?sid=1887&cid=13513> Hope .
Author: Forodwaith
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=50
> . Books/Time: Post-Ring War: Vignette . ID: 357
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=2&form_story_filter=357>
Reviewer: Marta
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=16
> . 2005-04-17 09:15:10 Score: 2
Ah, the return of Parmandil, at least in passing. I love stories like this
that ties the hints canon gives us of the Fouth Age into something more
conclusive.

Title: The Horn-Cry
<http://www.henneth-annun.net/stories/chapter.cfm?STID=1816> of Buckland .
Author: Lulleny
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=30
2> . Books/Time: Post-Ring War: Shire . ID: 467
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=2&form_story_filter=467>
Reviewer: Marta
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=16
> . 2005-04-17 15:28:21 Score: 10
This piece has a quality that I see too rarely, yet is important: the
ability to angst without distorting the character of whoever is doing the
angsty. Because Merry does his share of angsting here, but he's still Merry
somehow. This is particularly important -- and particularly difficult with
hobbits. I was truly impressed by the hints of night-time horror that Pippin
would also have endured. It was beautifully done, and all the more
impressive because it was through the eyes of the naive and more youthful
(at least at the time of the Quest) hobbit, instead of the mature organiser
of the Conspiracy.

I was a little confused as to the timeline. I mean, obviously it takes place
thee years after the birth of Faramir's and Eowyn's first child, and while
that date isn't nailed down I always envisioned it taking place fairly soon
after they were married -- certainly within five years or so. So I think
this story would probably take place within a decade after the Quest, yet I
have a hard time seeing both Merry and Pippin as Master of Buckland and
Thain of Tookland respectively, that soon after the war. There's no
indication that their fathers died prematurely, if I recall correctly. While
it wasn't uncanonical, it was a bit confusing toward the beginning, as I
thought the "Master of Buckland" was Saradoc, not Merry.

I also was a little sceptical about Pippin's naming the horse Shadow, as it
seems like that word would have more connection with the Shadow of the East
than with Shadowfax, Gandalf's horse. And was Shadow supposed to be a horse
or a pony? I wasn't sure. Anyway, these minor details notwithstanding, I
thought it was a well-told version of a possible post-Scouring event.

Title: Guarding the
<http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterlistview.asp?SID=88> Shire . Author:
Shirebound
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=31
5> . Books/Time: Post-Ring War: Gap-Filler . ID: 513
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=2&form_story_filter=513>
Reviewer: Marta
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=16
> . 2005-04-18 21:19:54 Score: 3
This is an interesting answer to the question of why the Rangers would have
been guarding the Shire. I did question whether hardened warriors would be
so opening in discussing their feelings (the Rangers, not so much Merry),
but generally the piece was interesting and well-executed.

Title: Bare Feet and
<http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterlistview.asp?SID=2945> Beer . Author:
Gwynnyd
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=18
6> . Books/Time: Post-Ring War: Gondor . ID: 571
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=2&form_story_filter=571>
Reviewer: Marta
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=16
> . 2005-04-19 09:37:08 Score: 9
"Aragorn? Elessar? Estel? Strider? Surely there is one of my names that you
could bear to speak."

This quote seems to capture the heart not only of this story, but also of
what Faramir's and Aragorn's relationship after the War of the Ring would
have been like, at least in my imagination. I tend to write and imagine a
kindler, gentler Denethor than a lot of people, but even I accept that he
was a formidable man. Not that Aragorn wasn't, but I think he would have
been a very different man to serve than Aragorn is.

It was also nice to see how Gwynnyd thought Aragorn being Thorongil would
affect politics in the Fourth Age. Of course the Corsairs would remember the
man who destroyed their fleet a mere generation before! And Faramir would
appreciate the need to be sensitive to situations like that, of course.
Spot-on characterizations.

I think my favourite thing about this piece, though, was the little hints
that Aragorn was interested in Faramir's personal life. Little comments like
"I don't expect to see the candles burning in here once Eowyn is back" when
he's discussing with Faramir how late the steward is working. A few more
commas and a few less apostrophes would help this story, but really, it's a
very enjoyable read.

Title: Faithful
<http://www.henneth-annun.net/challenge/chapter.cfm?STID=3126&NGID=129> Star
. Author: Tiana
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=33
4> Luthien . Books/Time: Post-Ring War: Gondor . ID: 593
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=2&form_story_filter=593>
Reviewer: Marta
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=16
> . 2005-04-19 16:14:07 Score: 1
This is a nice bit of fluff. I particularly liked the interactions between
Faramir and Legolas.

Title: Of Herbs and
<http://www.henneth-annun.net/stories/chapter.cfm?STID=4653> Stewed Rabbit .
Author: Alawa
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=10
3> . Genres: Drama (includes Angst): Gapfiller . ID: 9
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=2&form_story_filter=9>
Reviewer: Larner
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=24
2> . 2005-04-20 00:37:11 Score: 4
This is a lovely gapfiller for Aragorn's young adult period. I found it to
be gentle, and a good indication of how Aragorn was raised both by Elrond
and by his mother, to always care for and follow the holy days of his
people; and how he reminded his people of this need even in the wilds during
his first stint as a Ranger of Arnor.

Excellently written, gently realized.

I heartily recommend it.

Title: Bed
<http://www.henneth-annun.net/stories/chapter_view.cfm?STID=4511&SPOrdinal=1
> of Roses . Author: Vistula
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=19
3> the Dunadan . Books/Time: The Lord of The Rings: Hobbits . ID: 793
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=2&form_story_filter=793>
Reviewer: Larner
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=24
2> . 2005-04-20 00:44:08 Score: 3
I love this look at Frodo's thoughts toward Sam as he lies on the slopes of
the mountain, knowing tomorrow is most likely the last for both of them, and
his wishes that Sam were safe with the one he loves instead of lying here
facing destruction. A very deep, loving, caring, angst-filled piece, and
well worth the reading.

Title: Olorin
<http://www.tolkienfanfiction.com/Story_Read_Chapter.php?CHid=1127> I was in
my Youth In the West that is Forgotten . Author: Azalais
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=18
7> . Books/Time: The Lord of The Rings: Drabble . ID: 25
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=2&form_story_filter=25>
Reviewer: Larner
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=24
2> . 2005-04-20 00:48:54 Score: 2
An interesting drabble--the Istari remembering the days of being a Maia. It
would be interesting to see this expanded upon, and hope that one day this
might be done.

Title: By All
<http://www.livejournal.com/users/talechallenge06/5053.html#cutid1> The
Signs . Author: Tialys
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=23
0> . Books/Time: Post-Ring War . ID: 757
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=2&form_story_filter=757>
Reviewer: Marta
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=16
> . 2005-04-20 22:33:58 Score: 3
This story has a lot of potential, and deals with a topic of great interest
to me: modern people finding relics from the Third Age, and trying to
interpret it. I was unclear how the stone survived so long, and how Reggie
knew so much about Middle-earth, and think more details would help the
story. But it's a pleasant read, nonetheless.

Title: March Frost <http://www.scribeoz.com/fanfic/story.php?no=1574> .
Author: SilverMoonLady
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=34
3> . Books/Time: Post-Ring War . ID: 769
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=2&form_story_filter=769>
Reviewer: Marta
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=16
> . 2005-04-20 23:01:16 Score: 3
This is a wonderful story; it could very easily fit into "horror", as it
contains many horrific images. It makes sense that Frodo wouldn't be the
only one to suffer "anniversay illnesses", and Merry's role in anchoring him
and helping to fight off the demons is touching as well.

Title: Love
<http://www.henneth-annun.net/stories/chapter_view.cfm?STID=4819&SPOrdinal=1
> Me and Despair . Author: EdorasLass
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=29
9> . Genres: Alternate Universe: Elves . ID: 645
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=2&form_story_filter=645>
Reviewer: riverotter7
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=40
3> . 2005-04-21 17:37:10 Score: 7
When I first read this, I think it was in beta on HASA. It was creepily good
then but as the story progressed (and when I read it for review) it became
even more eerie. By the time I was done with it, I had chills, and the wind
rattling at the windows certainly didn't help. Needless to say I bookmarked
this story for future reading and have read and reread it multiple times
since. The story is good in that it's not very graphic. That's not
neccessary to get the point across. Just the menace to each of the
Fellowship and to the Races of Middle Earth is obvious without a lot of
blood spattering across the pages, graphic torture, gnashing and wailing et
al. I'm not much of a suspense or horror reader. I have too graphic of an
imagination for that; but this story moves that imagination without the need
for too many words. It's short duration leaves the essential cold chill and
the nasty taste of "what could have been..." Marvelous.
Molly Littlefoot

Title: Some Nameless
<http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterlistview.asp?SID=197> Place . Author:
Budgielover
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=24
1> . Genres: Adventure: Long Form . ID: 875
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=2&form_story_filter=875>
Reviewer: Ariel
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=16
2> . 2005-04-22 14:47:53 Score: 3
I must confess that this is a delightfully fun adventure story. It has it
all, hurt / comfort, drama, adventure and even a little comedy. I often
think of this piece as the most typical example of Budgie's work - it has a
serial quality that just makes reading it fun and easy. Don't forget your
popcorn while you read, but this one is a delightful tale.

Title: Duet <http://www.lightindarkplaces.net/DuetIndex.html> . Author:
Aratlithiel
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=23
1> . Books/Time: Post-Ring War: Gap-Filler . ID: 886
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=2&form_story_filter=886>
Reviewer: Ariel
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=16
2> . 2005-04-22 14:52:56 Score: 4
Probably one of her best stories but often underrated, this heartbreaking
look at the ways that both Merry and Pippin dealt with Frodo's leaving will
cut your heart in two. I love the way these two tales intertwine one another
and fill in the spaces left in the other's interpretation. It is a skillful
technique and a lovely story that I can heartily recommend to anyone.

Title: All I
<http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterview.asp?sid=3270&cid=12468> Ever
Wanted . Author: pippinfan88
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=33
1> . Books/Time: Post-Ring War: Friendship . ID: 844
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=2&form_story_filter=844>
Reviewer: Ariel
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=16
2> . 2005-04-22 17:12:37 Score: 3
I have been going through the lists, trying to find stories I have already
read and can review quickly. This is one that was far too short, because it
is delightful and deserves a longer treatment! I would hope I could
encourage the author to expand on this quaint little snippet. It really
deserves much more exploration!

Title: Dreme <http://www.geocities.com/singeaddams/Dreme.html> . Author:
Singe
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=40
1> . Books/Time: Post-Ring War: Aman . ID: 858
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=2&form_story_filter=858>
Reviewer: Ariel
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=16
2> . 2005-04-22 17:16:16 Score: 4
I read this ages ago and think it is delightful. I adore the very 'hobbity'
tone it has and the wonderful innocence the author gives back to Frodo. He
is very definitely himself as he used to be, before the dark times, and
because of that the story has a hidden poignancy that you don't realize has
crept up on you till you reach the end. Smart, hobbity, quaint and charming,
you will end the story with a tear in your eye and not immediately
understand why. A darling story.

Title: It Takes A
<http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterlistview.asp?SID=2893> Took . Author:
Dreamflower
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=11
5> . Races/Places: Hobbits: Pippin . ID: 823
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=2&form_story_filter=823>
Reviewer: Ariel
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=16
2> . 2005-04-22 19:42:45 Score: 2
A lovely little romance, cleverly told. A sweet read. I would recommend this
story to anyone who likes a light, sweet romance. The author handles it very
well. Probably one of my more favored Pippin/Diamond stories.

Title: A Diamond In
<http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterlistview.asp?SID=2941> The Storm .
Author: SilverMoonLady
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=34
3> . Genres: Romance . ID: 780
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=2&form_story_filter=780>
Reviewer: Ariel
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=16
2> . 2005-04-22 19:55:51 Score: 10
I positively ADORE this author's work. She is one of the very few whose sexy
stories are good enough to titillate me. She also unerringly provides a
deliciously savory story in the bargain. A Diamond in the Storm is probably
the best Pippin/Diamond story I have ever read for characterization. The two
are presented believably and the Diamond she creates is a character that
anyone could admire and think good enough for Pippin. Her Pippin is also
exceptional - a grown hobbit who you can believe has lived through the wars,
has come of age as a hero of the Shire and has grown into a the remarkable
hobbit I always knew was in him. If I was to pick a strength of this story
it would be the characterizations, because very few of them are undeveloped,
but the storyline is also quite well thought out. I think it could use a few
more twists and turns and a bit more exploration of the villian's motive but
it keeps your interest and is much more plausible than the average fanfic
story.

Another strength is pacing. So many authors belabor points and go into
endless detail about motivation and periferals that finding an author like
Silvermoonlady who, if anything, goes the other direction!, is quite
refreshing indeed. She handles emotion very well and the sex is... well, if
there is anyone who writes sex better (besides me *wink*) I don't know who
it could possibly be.

Title: To the Sea <http://www.scribeoz.com/fanfic/story.php?no=1479> .
Author: SilverMoonLady
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=34
3> . Genres: Adventure . ID: 770
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=2&form_story_filter=770>
Reviewer: Ariel
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=16
2> . 2005-04-22 20:05:28 Score: 9
I hadn't even seen that this author, one of my all time favourites, had
written this until I found it on some archive. I was delighted to find a new
one of hers and settled myself down with it with gusto. It hadn't gotten
many reviews, probably because it featured none of the fellowship, but it
captivated me at once with the absolutely lyrical quality of the prose, the
spare style and the way it wove a very believable character with only a very
few words.

It is very nearly an original work because the author has created a shipping
industry that Tolkien hardly touched on in any of his works and a
heartbroken and devastated hobbit that was only referred to in a single line
in the master's work. All of the effort she put into this should be roundly
applauded because she DOES succeed, brilliantly, in creating a character
that you can definitely see existing. I know stories with either original or
nearly original characters aren't the ones that everyone seems to want to
read, but when they are written this WELL, they really ought to be
applauded. Thank you, SML, for giving your readers this tantalizing glimpse
into another corner of Tolkien's universe. Bravo!


Title: I Will Know <http://www.lotrfanfiction.com/viewstory.php?sid=4577>
Suffering . Author: Andy
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=36
4> Longwood . Books/Time: Post-Ring War: Aman . ID: 704
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=2&form_story_filter=704>
Reviewer: Ariel
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=16
2> . 2005-04-22 20:12:59 Score: 7
I was totally knocked off my feet by this fic. I am not usually a big one
for crossed species because, well, it just doesn't seem that it would work
to me, but this piece is just brilliant. It is a perfectly believable
snapshot of what Frodo might be like in Valinor from the point of view of
someone who falls, unexpectedly in love with him. The author also does
something I wholeheartedly approve of by not identifying the name (or
gender) of the love interest, thereby allowing both those of us who prefer
het and the people who like slash to enjoy the story. So many fics are
written seeming to suggest that females would not be good enough for these
characters that it is, sadly, a refreshing change to find a story that
allows readers who are proud of and enjoy their own femininity to enjoy a
tale. This fic (and style of writing) doesn't deny either and so welcomes
both - a tack I can wholeheartedly support.

Title: March Frost <http://www.scribeoz.com/fanfic/story.php?no=1574> .
Author: SilverMoonLady
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=34
3> . Books/Time: Post-Ring War . ID: 769
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=2&form_story_filter=769>
Reviewer: Ariel
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=16
2> . 2005-04-22 20:18:18 Score: 7
A lovely little het piece that is so FULL of mood and angst and written so
compellingly that you simply feel you are there in the story. You become
Estella fighting for Merry's life against the darkness. I swear that while
reading this, I could almost see it happening in my mind's eye.

This author writes from the heart and does something VERY few fanfic writers
do - she writes what she knows... I don't mean that she writes actual
accounts of things that happened, but she writes of emotions and situations
between people with a depth and believability that let you know she has
dealt with this, or something very much like it, in her life before. She
brings such an incredible realism to the story that you can't help being
drawn in. Even though it is make believe, there is just enough of a grain of
truth in it, as in Tolkien's own works, that you buy it as if these events
actually happened. A brilliant piece I highly recommend.


Title: Flame of
<http://www.tolkienfanfiction.com/Story_Read_Chapter.php?CHid=24> the West .
Author: Altariel
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=18
1> . Races/Places: Gondor: Vignette . ID: 1
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=2&form_story_filter=1>
Reviewer: Nancy
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=10
5> Brooke . 2005-04-24 09:32:52 Score: 3
It is easy to picture oneself in this story, the feeling, sounds and smells
of place are extremely well communicated. The pace is steady, characters'
feelings gently and subtly rendered; almost too subtle - while I could see
and hear Aragorn's pain, Faramir's steadfastness, I couldn't feel them as
intensly as I wanted.


[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]

Msg# 5088

Reviews Final as of 8/17/2005 part 4 Posted by Ainaechoiriel August 17, 2005 - 23:08:09 Topic ID# 5088
Title: The
<http://www.tolkienfanfiction.com/Story_Read_Chapter.php?CHid=196> Flowers
of the Forest . Author: Altariel
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=18
1> . Books/Time: The Lord of The Rings: Gondor . ID: 2
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=3&form_story_filter=2>
Reviewer: Nancy
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=10
5> Brooke . 2005-04-24 09:42:12 Score: 3
I liked this - pointed descriptions and strong voice made immersion was
immediate. Other aspects were, unfortunately, more vague: I wasn't sure if
the narrator with his war-like imagery was Faramir or Eomer, and what
'battle' exactly they were preparing for. The piece seemed both melancholy
and hopeful but wasn't sure which was foremost.

Title: 'Peering
<http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterview.asp?sid=808&cid=7811> in the water
as the dark eve fell, I caught him, Gollum.' . Author: Avon
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=15
> . Books/Time: The Lord of The Rings: Drabble . ID: 19
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=3&form_story_filter=19>
Reviewer: Nancy
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=10
5> Brooke . 2005-04-24 09:49:14 Score: 3
Excellent. Even the brevity of the form communicates how little power of
abstract thought Aragorn has left in this journey; he's become just Gollum's
capture with limited articulated feelings. You really capture the whole
experience - every sense and impression.

Title: New
<http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterview.asp?sid=3484&cid=13198> Home .
Author: Tanaqui
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=40
> . Books/Time: Post-Ring War: Ithilien Drabble . ID: 20
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=3&form_story_filter=20>
Reviewer: Nancy
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=10
5> Brooke . 2005-04-24 09:52:09 Score: 2
Excellent job. With so few words you still captured and communicated
Beregond's doubt, hope, guilt, and relief, and so much of Bergil's simple
self-centered boyhood thoughts - what am I going to do here? What's in it
for me?

Title: Links
<http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterview.asp?sid=1887&cid=8126> . Author:
Forodwaith
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=50
> . Books/Time: Post-Ring War: General Drabble . ID: 23
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=3&form_story_filter=23>
Reviewer: Nancy
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=10
5> Brooke . 2005-04-24 09:55:34 Score: 3
Great. The whole drabble meanders up to that very forceful and poignant end.
I particularly liked "Pendulum," though - hypnotizing. You've made a lot out
of a powerfully simple idea and, personnaly, it's nice to see Frodo
acknowledging Boromir.

Title: Five Things <http://www.fanfiction.net/s/2103245/1/> That Never
Happened to Faramir & Eowyn . Author: Altariel
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=18
1> . Books/Time: The Lord of The Rings: Drabble . ID: 39
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=3&form_story_filter=39>
Reviewer: EdorasLass
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=29
9> . 2005-04-24 13:30:23 Score: 2
Oh, I *love* these.
These are gorgeous snapshots - all heartbreaking to one extent or another,
number three particularly - and they tend to linger in my head, making me
glad (at very odd moments) that none of these things *did* happen.
Perfect.

Title: Kindred
<http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterview.asp?sid=3140&cid=12146> Spirits .
Author: annmarwalk
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=17
7> . Books/Time: The Lord of The Rings: Drabble . ID: 106
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=3&form_story_filter=106>
Reviewer: EdorasLass
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=29
9> . 2005-04-24 13:38:41 Score: 3
I found this particularly touching - Gandalf musing on what it would be like
to have a child- because he would, wouldn't he?
And I love the notion that Gandalf considers Faramir to be the son he will
never have. Makes me wonder if Faramir has any idea...

Title: The <http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterview.asp?sid=1887&cid=8772>
White City . Author: Forodwaith
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=50
> . Genres: Drama (includes Angst): Gondor Drabble . ID: 21
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=3&form_story_filter=21>
Reviewer: Nancy
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=10
5> Brooke . 2005-04-25 10:23:04 Score: 2
Very nice; your language flows easily and clearly. It's nice to have a
tender background story and this little glimpse into a more complicated
Beregond.

Title: The Heirs of <http://www.freewebs.com/aure/heirsofisildurthe.htm>
Isildur . Author: Marta
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=16
> . Genres: Humor: Drabble . ID: 24
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=3&form_story_filter=24>
Reviewer: Nancy
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=10
5> Brooke . 2005-04-25 10:26:03 Score: 2
Very cute and well imagined. I particularly like that you didn't take the
easy way out and use Aragorn, and to see Elrond as someone tired of
responsibility - a unique perspective.

Title: Olorin
<http://www.tolkienfanfiction.com/Story_Read_Chapter.php?CHid=1127> I was in
my Youth In the West that is Forgotten . Author: Azalais
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=18
7> . Books/Time: The Lord of The Rings: Drabble . ID: 25
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=3&form_story_filter=25>
Reviewer: Nancy
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=10
5> Brooke . 2005-04-25 10:28:14 Score: 2
Very nicely envisioned - both the unique perspective and the details. I
found the words a little crammed, however, even for a drabble.

Title: The
<http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterview.asp?sid=3594&cid=13632> Protocol
of Princes . Author: maranya14
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=12
0> . Genres: Humor: Drabble . ID: 26
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=3&form_story_filter=26>
Reviewer: Nancy
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=10
5> Brooke . 2005-04-25 10:36:49 Score: 2
Great! Eomer's self-seriousness and self-mocking are priceless! as is
Faramir's lighthearted playfullness. Your language is perfect and reads
effortlessly. Well done.

Title: The Terror of
<http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterlistview.asp?SID=3089> Buckland .
Author: Inkling
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=28
3> . Races/Places: Hobbits: Pre-War of the Ring . ID: 687
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=3&form_story_filter=687>
Reviewer: Ariel
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=16
2> . 2005-04-25 21:25:57 Score: 6
How do I praise this lovely piece? First off, I guess I could say, it's
real. Inkling presents a Shire that has as much depth, magic, goodness and
reality as the Professor's own. You really feel like she is describing a
real place that you could visit or live in. Her characters have depth and
you can tell she worked on the presentation of each and every one. They
almost walk off the page. The story line is both entertaining and compelling
and I challenge you to be able to put it down once you have started. All in
all, this is one of those stories that really brings the Shire to life in a
way that makes me want to live there. Thank you, Inkling!

Title: Flame of
<http://www.tolkienfanfiction.com/Story_Read_Chapter.php?CHid=24> the West .
Author: Altariel
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=18
1> . Races/Places: Gondor: Vignette . ID: 1
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=3&form_story_filter=1>
Reviewer: Marta
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=16
> . 2005-04-26 20:19:25 Score: 4
This story had a nice feel to it. I can imagine Faramir and Aragorn having
just this kind of conversation, and it was nice to see them at least begin
politically. I had some quibbles, and in a way the pledging seemed redundant
(it didn't accpmplish anything more than Faramir accepting Aragorn's
kingship when he first woke up in the books, as Aragorn is not crowned king
yet), but the character interaction was nice nonetheless.

Title: Just
<http://homepage.ntlworld.com/matthew.adams1/personal/isabeau_drabbles.htm#c
hop> A Bit Of Chop . Author: Isabeau
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=18
2> of Greenlea . Books/Time: Post-Ring War: General Drabble . ID: 30
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=3&form_story_filter=30>
Reviewer: Nancy
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=10
5> Brooke . 2005-04-29 16:17:45 Score: 3
Very humorous, and wonderfully folkloric - the soldier, the scholar, the
sailor - and a very appropriate torture! I can just imagine the various
'pissing contests' been going on between Eomer and Imrahil's boys
culminating in this one - getting Eomer really on their 'turf'. My only
complaint? Too brief!

Title: For
<http://homepage.ntlworld.com/matthew.adams1/personal/isabeau_drabbles.htm#s
eason> Everything There Is A Season . Author: Isabeau
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=18
2> of Greenlea . Books/Time: Post-Ring War: General Drabble . ID: 31
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=3&form_story_filter=31>
Reviewer: Nancy
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=10
5> Brooke . 2005-04-29 16:20:01 Score: 2
"Safely wed and heired" that clever and fresh turn of phrase alone is praise
worthy. A lovely little glimpse into the private lives of this family.

Title: Gathering the
<http://www.henneth-annun.net/stories/chapter.cfm?STID=3082> Pieces .
Author: Tehta
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=18
5> . Races/Places: Elves: First Age . ID: 13
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=3&form_story_filter=13>
Reviewer: daw
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=17
6> the minstrel . 2005-04-29 19:25:51 Score: 3
I found this reading of Maedhros to be compelling. He's so single minded.
And I like the view of everyone else that we get through his eyes. He's
appalling but we can also see why he's the way he is, for the author lets us
see that more than his body was broken by the way he was treated. The author
manages to convey a great deal of feeling with relatively few words.

Title: Sapphire
<http://www.henneth-annun.net/stories/chapter.cfm?STID=2953> Aurae . Author:
Bejai
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=23
6> . Races/Places: Elves: Imladris . ID: 164
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=3&form_story_filter=164>
Reviewer: daw
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=17
6> the minstrel . 2005-04-29 19:26:08 Score: 7
This story was beautiful and terrifying. For me, it had the same feel as a
Greek tragedy. The people of Athens knew the stories before they went to the
theater. They knew what was going to happen to Oedipus but they watched it
unfold in pity and fear. That's what I feel for poor Celebrian. And how
awful for Elrond to think that it was his stewardship of Vilya that exposed
Celebrian to the forces of evil.

The agony of everyone involved is described so well through the detail and
the dialogue. You make us feel it for ourselves. I am particularly struck by
how Celebrian comes across as a strong person, despite what's been done to
her. And her love for Elrond comes through so clearly too.

Elrond's temptation was deeply realized. How awful to have fought this
battle so many times, to think you've won, and to see if come again.

Title: Stability
<http://www.ofelvesandmen.com/Stories/K/KharessaBloodrose/Stability.htm> .
Author: kharessa_bloodroses
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=77
> . Races/Places: Elves: Lothlorien . ID: 617
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=3&form_story_filter=617>
Reviewer: daw
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=17
6> the minstrel . 2005-04-29 19:26:55 Score: 2
There are real characters and feelings here, evoked through dialogue and
events and thoughts. And there's a complete sense of story. This is a real
writer.

Title: How Legolas
<http://www.henneth-annun.net/stories/chapter.cfm?STID=394> Proved His
Bowmanship . Author: Chathol-linn
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=23
> . Genres: Adventure . ID: 8
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=3&form_story_filter=8>
Reviewer: daw
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=17
6> the minstrel . 2005-04-29 19:28:01 Score: 3
This story is told in a manner that makes it feel like a legend, and that
seems right to me. The character of Legolas is nicely shown through his
serious devotion to his craft and his fearless behavior. The other
characters are richly realized also.

Title: Elven Song <http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterlistview.asp?SID=571>
. Author: Jocelyn
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=20
3> . Genres: Drama (includes Angst): Elves . ID: 66
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=3&form_story_filter=66>
Reviewer: daw
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=17
6> the minstrel . 2005-04-29 19:28:22 Score: 10
This was a tense and moving story.

One scene I liked was the one of the council. It seems to me that everything
in that scene swirls around Thranduil. Remove him, and you have a group of
grieving, angry people, who nonetheless have good will toward one another
and can be reasoned with. But Thranduil is off the deep end. He never did
like some of the people here to start with. And Legolas's thoughts about him
are sadly accepting: this is just the way the king is and his son loves him
anyway.

Then later, after they capture Disaran, all of these people--who we
basically see as decent--feel grief and their reactions vary so. Some of
them, like the hobbits, comfort one another. Other want to hurt one another.
And in the extreme case of the crowd, threaten to descend into madness. But
even the guards who beat on Disaran share a bit of that particular feeling.

The ending ties up all the threads wonderfully. Legolas learns what happened
to each of his friends and how much he is loved. And they confront their
actions and try to come to terms with them. Even Disaran gets what's coming
to him.

But my favorite part was when Gimli lectures Legolas about what to do about
the sea longing. I have to tell you there were actually tears in my eyes
when Legolas realized that Gimli, the elf friend, will be allowed to go with
him so that the wishes his heart and his blood are both answered.

And the ending was lovely. I particularly liked Legolas's vision of Frodo as
young and innocent. Frodo's loss of the ability to live in peace in the
Shire again has always struck me as so tragic. He and Legolas have that in
common -- the loss of contentment in what formerly gave them deep joy.

Title: Captain of the
<http://www.henneth-annun.net/stories/chapter.cfm?STID=3665> Guard . Author:
Arandil
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=22
9> . Genres: Drama (includes Angst): Mirkwood . ID: 119
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=3&form_story_filter=119>
Reviewer: daw
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=17
6> the minstrel . 2005-04-29 19:28:42 Score: 1
Nice characterization of Legolas. I liked his relationship with Thranduil
and Galion too.

Title: The Bow <http://www.scribeoz.com/fanfic/story.php?no=1276> . Author:
Space
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=23
5> Weavil . Genres: Drama (includes Angst): Mirkwood . ID: 161
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=3&form_story_filter=161>
Reviewer: daw
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=17
6> the minstrel . 2005-04-29 19:28:58 Score: 3
Wonderful moment at the story's center where you change time frames. Nicely
and subtely done. You catch both the shift from Thranduil the son to
Thranduil the king and the shift from Greenwood to Mirkwood. And then we see
Thrnaduil the father and very satisfying it is too!

Title: Take the Little Ones
<http://www.scribeoz.com/fanfic/story.php?no=1429> . Author: Space
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=23
5> Weavil . Genres: Drama (includes Angst): Elves . ID: 163
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=3&form_story_filter=163>
Reviewer: daw
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=17
6> the minstrel . 2005-04-29 19:29:13 Score: 5
First, let me just say I was so deeply relieved that Erestor's children
survived that I can hardly tell you about it. I had to stop myself from
scrolling down to see. You built that tension very well.

Second, do you know Shelley's poem "Ozymandias"? It's about a statue that's
all broken and half buried in the sand and inscribed with the king's name
and a warning about how eternally powerful and wonderful he was. This
reminded me of that. And yet, I wonder if Erestor isn't also teaching a bit
of timidity. It's hard to balance all that, I think.

Title: Departing
<http://www.henneth-annun.net/stories/chapter.cfm?STID=2606> . Author:
Celandine
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=24
3> Brandybuck . Books/Time: Post-Ring War: Final Partings . ID: 183
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=3&form_story_filter=183>
Reviewer: daw
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=17
6> the minstrel . 2005-04-29 19:29:30 Score: 1
Nice portrayal of a turning point in the history of ME and the elves.

Title: The Confused
<http://henneth-annun.net/stories/chapter.cfm?STID=4619> Elf . Author: Kenaz
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=24
4> . Genres: Humor: Metafic . ID: 187
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=3&form_story_filter=187>
Reviewer: daw
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=17
6> the minstrel . 2005-04-29 19:29:51 Score: 1
This was funny and my sympathies are entirely with Haldir!

Title: Serious <http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterlistview.asp?SID=1633>
Trouble . Author: Karenator
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=10
> . Genres: Humor: Children . ID: 216
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=3&form_story_filter=216>
Reviewer: daw
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=17
6> the minstrel . 2005-04-29 19:30:06 Score: 10
You do a wonderful job with the first person POV. You give us Daeron's
personality by showing us his thought and words, and he certainly is a
handful!

The families are also nicely done. We can see the older brothers and
Daeron's naneth emerging nicely. Thranduil is his intimidating self. Daeron
and Legolas have courage if they cross him regularly.

Your use of first person helps to build suspense too. You really let us
experience what it felt like to be these kids, to see that something in
going on and not know what it is.

Legolas was very bad to put that spider on his poor cousin who had trusted
him and confided in him! I was originally thinking "boys!" but then the
whole family got in on the act. It's actually nice to see some hilarity in
the royal family. And why is it that Daeron is so afraid of spiders but can
pick up beetles?

And the Dwarves in the woods were great. They were so dwarven, scratching
their chins with their axes and so on, but boy did they give good advice.
Too bad the men didn't take it, but it might have been too late for them
anyway.

I liked the way that after the rescue Daeron and Legolas see their brothers
and Thranduil in a new light: as dangerous warriors. And the talk about what
it means to kill as a warrior was properly sobering. No careless glory here.

I cheered when I saw that this story was continuing. Daeron is certainly
learning some hard lessons, and I don't mean how to do laundry. I've
wondered about that bond to a parent too. Perhaps Daeron feels it but
doesn't know it because he's never been without it. Maybe it's like feeling
your heart beat. A spouse is different because the couple forms that bond,
and the same thing with the bond of the parent to the child. The parent
feels the difference when it starts. But the child has always had it.

Daeron's fear was touching, and he does seem to have made peace with his
brother, at least for a while. I like the way you show us the reactions of
the adults even when Daeron can't quite make them out.


[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]

Msg# 5089

Reviews Final as of 8/17/2005 part 5 Posted by Ainaechoiriel August 17, 2005 - 23:08:57 Topic ID# 5089
Title: The Scruff
<http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterlistview.asp?SID=364> Factor . Author:
jastaelf
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=38
> . Genres: Humor: Aragorn . ID: 293
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=6&form_story_filter=293>
Reviewer: daw
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=17
6> the minstrel . 2005-04-29 19:30:18 Score: 2
This was highly entertaining. The way the twins outthink themselves is
hilarious. All of the characters are well done and the humor is carried out
through the whole thing. Excellent.

Title: Dancing in the
<http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterlistview.asp?SID=3025> Darkness .
Author: Marnie
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=24
5> . Races/Places: Cross-Cultural: Pre-War of the Ring . ID: 476
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=6&form_story_filter=476>
Reviewer: daw
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=17
6> the minstrel . 2005-04-29 19:30:38 Score: 5
This was beautiful and primitive and very elfy. I love seeing Celeborn tell
his grandchildren these tales. They help me too, to see how these farflung
events might have felt to those who lived through them and long after.

There's lots of little phrasing here that takes these actions out of the
ordinary: the twins walking "as if they didn't own their own bodies,"
Celeborn "feeling" the stars move. There's a bodily knowledge here that's
different from Elrond's lore.

The parallel between the twins and Celeborn's tatoo was nicely drawn.


Title: Seeds of Old
<http://www.henneth-annun.net/stories/chapter.cfm?STID=4440> Trees . Author:
Marnie
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=24
5> . Books/Time: Post-Ring War: Aman . ID: 478
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=6&form_story_filter=478>
Reviewer: daw
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=17
6> the minstrel . 2005-04-29 19:30:51 Score: 2
Lovely story. I'm so glad that Galadriel let her anger go. I liked the
seeds. I see where the title comes from and the suggestion of things beyond
trees.


Title: With Friends
<http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterlistview.asp?SID=1094> Like These .
Author: Jay
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=13
4> of Lasgalen . Genres: Drama (includes Angst): Elves . ID: 621
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=6&form_story_filter=621>
Reviewer: daw
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=17
6> the minstrel . 2005-04-29 19:31:08 Score: 10
I liked both halves of this story. In Greenwood, I liked the scene with
Legolas and the wolf cubs, although the parents never seem to have found
out. And the twins didn't believe him about the spiders apparently. You
could see all the plot threads building so that everything was going to come
crashing down on Legolas at once. And he is a very believable kid, a nice
mix of trouble and uncertainty.

Interesting twin stuff. I liked the phantom pain that Elrohir was
experiencing and Elrond's complete lack of scruples in blackmailing him into
chewing the leaves. Sometimes you have to deal with kids on their own level.

Taniquel kisses Elrohir and his brother wonders how he does it! That's
great. I hope Elrohir continues to have such charm with maidens. And his
desire to be an individual was understandable. It must be tough, although
comforting, to always have someone else there.

In the scenes in Rivendell, Legolas really shows a finely developed
conscience. Thranduil should be proud of him, even if he does have to learn
not to be so hard on himself. I like your good Ada Thranduil.

Now the troll stuff was scary. I was struck by how nicely you advanced this
chapter with dialogue and actions. It came alive. It was shown, not told.
Really, really nicely done.

Loved the picture of the two fathers both worried enough that they can't
sleep. Elladan must be petrified by now. Legolas and Elrohir were very lucky
not to be really hurt or even killed.

These three did themselves proud by taking their medicine like "men" so to
speak. And then Elrohir apparently chose just the right confidante. Good for
Glorfindel. He's right. The message got across and that's what matters
anyway.



Title: Along Came A
<http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterlistview.asp?SID=2808> Spider . Author:
Jay
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=13
4> of Lasgalen . Genres: Drama (includes Angst): Mirkwood . ID: 622
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=6&form_story_filter=622>
Reviewer: daw
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=17
6> the minstrel . 2005-04-29 19:31:25 Score: 6
I liked the sudden arrival of Legolas -- straight from patrol but having to
report to his father. It gave a sense of life going on elsewhere that was
strange in the midst of Elrohir's suffering.

You have realistic details here that make the story more gripping -- the
fresh buising, for instance, or the cracked lips. And then later, as Elrohir
is healing, there's such a sense of realism, as if I'm seeing a real pair of
brothers move out of the infirmary and try to pick their normal lives up
again. You're patient enough to give us enough but not too much so that we
grow tired of it.

I always like to hear about the eagles. Those kind of talking, cooperating
animals are so other-worldly and magical.



Title: Namarie, <http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterlistview.asp?SID=78>
Elessar . Author: Joanna
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=29
5> . Books/Time: Post-Ring War: Final Partings . ID: 746
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=6&form_story_filter=746>
Reviewer: daw
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=17
6> the minstrel . 2005-04-29 19:31:53 Score: 1
Well written and moving depiction of a significant moment.

Title: Renewal <http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterlistview.asp?SID=3162>
. Author: Bodkin
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=41
1> . Books/Time: Post-Ring War: Gap-Filler . ID: 883
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=6&form_story_filter=883>
Reviewer: daw
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=17
6> the minstrel . 2005-04-29 19:32:06 Score: 2
I truly love the way your Celeborn thinks about Galadriel, Bodkin. "The
sweet greeness of her." What a lovely phrase. And I like the way they are
all dreaming of the ones who have gone before them.


Title: Dragons or
<http://www.henneth-annun.net/stories/chapter.cfm?STID=1963> Ribbons .
Author: Joanna
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=29
5> . Genres: Humor: Children . ID: 443
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=6&form_story_filter=443>
Reviewer: daw
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=17
6> the minstrel . 2005-04-29 19:32:35 Score: 1
This was hilarious! What a good "uncle" Legolas is.

Title: Alchemy
<http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterview.asp?sid=3016&cid=12767> . Author:
Branwyn
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=24
0> . Books/Time: The Silmarillion: Poetry . ID: 168
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=6&form_story_filter=168>
Reviewer: Raksha
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=17
8> the Demon . 2005-04-30 23:38:38 Score: 2
I normally don't much care for poetry, either RL or Tolkien-based. But this
is an exceptional piece - the fire of creation, the artistic process, all
captured beautifully in this poem about the master-craftsman of the Noldor.

Title: Flame of
<http://www.tolkienfanfiction.com/Story_Read_Chapter.php?CHid=24> the West .
Author: Altariel
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=18
1> . Races/Places: Gondor: Vignette . ID: 1
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=6&form_story_filter=1>
Reviewer: Raksha
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=17
8> the Demon . 2005-05-01 00:00:10 Score: 2
One of my favorite fanfic stories with Aragorn and Faramir: understated yet
heavy with emotion, and ending in hope. A pleasure to read and re-read.

Title: Requiem for
<http://www.henneth-annun.net/stories/chapter.cfm?STID=3859> Boromir .
Author: maranya14
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=12
0> . Books/Time: Post-Ring War . ID: 6
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=6&form_story_filter=6>
Reviewer: Raksha
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=17
8> the Demon . 2005-05-01 00:10:07 Score: 3
A Tolkienesque scene that we never got to see in ROTK; very well told. I
particularly admired the verses sung by Faramir for Boromir; they sounded
almost as if JRRT had written them himself, and were a great reminder of
Faramir's interest in music and lore....

Title: Adraefan <http://www.henneth-annun.net/stories/chapter.cfm?STID=4097>
. Author: Aeneid
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=20
1> . Genres: Alternate Universe . ID: 448
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=6&form_story_filter=448>
Reviewer: Raksha
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=17
8> the Demon . 2005-05-01 00:13:28 Score: 5
A sprawling epic tapestry that takes a quasi-Homeric look at the Boromir
Lives! genre of AU fanfiction. And it works; thanks to the whoosh-bang
pacing, alternating with pathos and quiet moments, and the author's
considerable flair for conveying both pain and humor. The basic humanity of
Boromir, the hobbits, Faramir, even the exiled Elves, is never forgotten.
And the scenes in Barad-dur, and the flashbacks to Boromir's torment there,
are terrifyingly vivid, yet not gratuitious...

Title: The Mark of a... <http://www.scribeoz.com/fanfic/story.php?no=1315>
Warrior? . Author: Ariel
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=16
2> . Races/Places: Cross-Cultural: Humor . ID: 133
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=6&form_story_filter=133>
Reviewer: Werecat
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=83
> . 2005-05-01 03:03:08 Score: 3
One of the funniest pieces I've read in FFnet - or anywhere, for that
matter. OK, so it may be what some people might call as "potty humor", but
it was damn funny anyway. As I see it, it's only logical that males of all
species would act this way - I know my brothers do. I only hoped that
Gandalf would participate too... Oh, well, you can't have everything.

Title: A <http://www.west-of-the-moon.net/servlet/ReadGenStory?storyID=288>
Chief's Day . Author: Ruby
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=26
2> Nye . Books/Time: The Lord of The Rings: The Shire . ID: 892
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=6&form_story_filter=892>
Reviewer: Marigold
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=98
> . 2005-05-01 13:09:49 Score: 4
There is such a heartwrenching sense of hopelessness here, but Lotho doesn't
realise it quite yet, or doesn't let himself. He stubbornly plods on
insisting to himself that he has things well in hand, that things are going
according to his plan, when in reality all is far beyond his control and he
is miserable, and I think has tipped over into actual insanity. Very nice
characterisation of Lotho here, pimples and all. I almost felt sorry for the
poor fellow.

Title: The
<http://www.henneth-annun.net/challenge/chapter.cfm?STID=1581&NGID=42>
Wizard and His Pupil . Author: Acacea
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=19
6> . Books/Time: The Lord of The Rings: Gondor . ID: 53
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=6&form_story_filter=53>
Reviewer: Raksha
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=17
8> the Demon . 2005-05-01 20:52:45 Score: 3
A lovely, understated story. I can't imagine this magical, bittersweet
moment being described any better. Gandalf and Faramir are very much in
character, and the reader can feel the mutual fondness and respect they have
for one another...

Title: Raven and
<http://www.tolkienfanfiction.com/Story_Read_Head.php?STid=141> Gold .
Author: Acacea
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=19
6> . Books/Time: The Lord of The Rings: Drabble . ID: 52
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=6&form_story_filter=52>
Reviewer: Raksha
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=17
8> the Demon . 2005-05-01 20:56:41 Score: 1
A short but sweet snapshot of one of my favorite moments in ROTK. Well done!

Title: No Peace for
<http://www.henneth-annun.net/stories/chapter.cfm?STID=4226> the Living .
Author: faramir_boromir
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=34
0> . Books/Time: Post-Ring War: Gondor . ID: 613
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=6&form_story_filter=613>
Reviewer: Raksha
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=17
8> the Demon . 2005-05-01 21:00:58 Score: 3
A great short story that beautifully blends Faramir's sorrow and loneliness
with his determination to prepare for Aragorn's rule. Faramir's errand to
the place of his father's death to find the crown for the Returned King is
skillfully written.

Title: Debbie Does the
<http://www.geocities.com/GypsieRose3000/DDTTTIndex.html> Two Towers .
Author: Gypsie
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=41
2> Rose . Genres: Humor . ID: 896
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=6&form_story_filter=896>
Reviewer: Raksha
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=17
8> the Demon . 2005-05-01 21:05:56 Score: 1
Great parody! Will there be any male left in M-e who has not enjoyed
Debbie's favors by the time she, and you, are done?

Title: Hand in Hand <http://www.fanfiction.net/s/2057941/1/> . Author:
illyria-pffyffin
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=36
3> . Books/Time: Gap-Filler: Hobbits . ID: 888
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=6&form_story_filter=888>
Reviewer: Cuthalion
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=40
7> . 2005-05-02 03:57:49 Score: 7
This is one of the most beautiful and heartbreaking stories about a young
Frodo, his uncle/ cousin Bilbo and their reaction when Frodo's parents die.
Bilbo mets his latter heir on the funeral of Drogo and Primula Baggins and
watches the boy's grief:

"Something small and cold slid into my half-raised hand, and I froze.
Without looking down I could sense that it was someone's hand. Frodo's hand.
His clammy fingers gripped and tugged weakly at mine panic fear and went
limp trust relief when my hand closed protectively around them safe you are
safe I am here."

This precious little vignette is wonderfully written and sensitively told,
and it lasts in the mind of reader for days - a proof for the art of the
author to unravel feelings and explain situation with an astonishing depth.
And again a proof how wonderful someone can be able to use a language
without being a native.

Title: Prayer
<http://www.west-of-the-moon.net/servlet/ReadGenStory?storyID=184> .
Author: illyria-pffyffin
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=36
3> . Books/Time: Gap-Filler: Hobbits . ID: 887
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=6&form_story_filter=887>
Reviewer: Cuthalion
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=40
7> . 2005-05-02 04:06:03 Score: 10
This was the very first tale I read by this author ( when I strolled through
the new entries of WOTM). And I ended up with a handkerchief, dabbing my
overflowing eyes and frantically typing an email to ask a totally strange
person if she would give me the permission to translate this little, tender
marvel into german.

It is told from Merry's POV; he sits beside the bed of his cousin Frodo who
has just been saved by the eagles. But it seems as if his heroic deed should
lead to a bitter end - Frodo doesn't wake up and gets weaker every day. His
friends seem to give up, and Merry seeks help where he never seeked it
before. But as time goes on, he doubts if he does his deeply beloved cousin
a real favor:

"Should I have done it differently? Should I say something other than my
own selfish pleas? Should put my lifetime happiness, my entire soul, my own
life as an offering? Should I, perhaps, start praying for myself, begging
for strength to find life when you are gone, asking for the courage to
accept your death with resignation and be glad over your release? I don't
know. I don't know. My world now is your face, thin and ravaged, before
me, and the words of my prayer, now frantic and mechanical."

Written with great love and understanding, and with an end that breaks the
reader's heart with a mixture of joy and sorrow. Utterly, utterly beautiful
(like weverything this enormously gifted author creates).

Title: Five Things <http://www.fanfiction.net/s/2103245/1/> That Never
Happened to Faramir & Eowyn . Author: Altariel
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=18
1> . Books/Time: The Lord of The Rings: Drabble . ID: 39
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=6&form_story_filter=39>
Reviewer: Nancy
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=10
5> Brooke . 2005-05-02 16:04:30 Score: 2
Interesting ... a very provocative perspective. I loved the curt but
descriptive style except for the opening line of several - too much like
reporting.

Title: Bittersweet
<http://www.tolkienfanfiction.com/Story_Read_Chapter.php?CHid=1043&PHPSESSID
=466178cd3479a0f686f348cef575786a> . Author: Vistula
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=19
3> the Dunadan . Genres: Drama (includes Angst): Drabble . ID: 43
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=6&form_story_filter=43>
Reviewer: Nancy
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=10
5> Brooke . 2005-05-02 16:06:47 Score: 1
Uneasy about this one; it is lovely but doesn't ultimately amount to much -
doesn't say anything new.

Title: Dark
<http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterview.asp?sid=1887&cid=9911> Memory .
Author: Forodwaith
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=50
> . Books/Time: The Lord of The Rings: Drabble . ID: 46
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=6&form_story_filter=46>
Reviewer: Nancy
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=10
5> Brooke . 2005-05-02 16:09:36 Score: 3
Nice; a deceptively simple scene in which a great deal is told about
friendship and the two men involved. This is an excellent example of a
drabble since it accomplishes so much within the framework of the form. Also
loved your characterizations.

Title: There
<http://www.tolkienfanfiction.com/Story_Read_Chapter.php?CHid=1129> And Back
Again . Author: Azalais
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=18
7> . Books/Time: The Hobbit: Drabble . ID: 51
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=6&form_story_filter=51>
Reviewer: Nancy
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=10
5> Brooke . 2005-05-02 16:16:07 Score: 2
Ho Ho! Nicely done. Your style is so easy it doesn't ever feel like a
drabble, per se. Bilbo's character is, in my opinion, spot on and very
amusing. Well done.

Title: Raven and
<http://www.tolkienfanfiction.com/Story_Read_Head.php?STid=141> Gold .
Author: Acacea
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=19
6> . Books/Time: The Lord of The Rings: Drabble . ID: 52
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=6&form_story_filter=52>
Reviewer: Nancy
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=10
5> Brooke . 2005-05-02 16:17:49 Score: 1
Very sweet. Very simple yet your characterizations are clearly drawn even so
briefly. Well Done.


[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]

Msg# 5090

Reviews Final as of 8/17/2005 part 6 Posted by Ainaechoiriel August 17, 2005 - 23:09:36 Topic ID# 5090
Title: The
<http://www.sweetdreamssanctuary.net/sanctuary/viewstory.php?sid=7> World
Within · Author: Minuialeth
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=42
7> · Genres: Drama (includes Angst): Incomplete · ID: 978
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=7&form_story_filter=978>
Reviewer: sulriel
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=7>
· 2005-05-02 21:06:15 Score: 6
This unique tale has a hypnotic rhythm that strongly reflects the author's
brilliant capturing of the simple point of view of her not-so-simple human
protagonist. Minuialeth's deceptively complex style delves deeply to bare
the soul with simple questions and simple observations that create deep and
complex thoughts rather than simple answers..

"Behold as the butcher pats the darkest amongst the herd and whispers
endearments of beauty as the trembling sheep stares into its reflection in
the pool of blood.”

both exquisite and terrifying. ... the dark truth, the agony of unrequited
love, the pain of bowing to those known to be better than yourself. The
denial of our utmost yearnings, the eventual fall - we can only hope.




Title: Campdóm and
<http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterlistview.asp?SID=2931> Lufian · Author:
Drake/Eokat
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=44
0> CoAuthors · Genres: Romance: Rohan · ID: 1039
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=7&form_story_filter=1039>
Reviewer: sulriel
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=7>
· 2005-05-04 09:07:00 Score: 2
I enjoyed both the style and content of this co-written story. It was
cleverly woven by each author from the different points of view to create a
full and flavorful whole. Well done.

Title: Home Indeed
<http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterlistview.asp?SID=3379> · Author: Eokat
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=43
7> · Genres: Romance: Rohan · ID: 1045
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=7&form_story_filter=1045>
Reviewer: sulriel
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=7>
· 2005-05-04 09:13:02 Score: 2
This is my favorite kind of story, that enriches the world around what we
already know. I very much enjoyed seeing the home-life of Father Eomer, and
how he enjoys his wife and family.

Title: Novice <http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterlistview.asp?SID=2677>
Rider · Author: Eokat
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=43
7> · Genres: Romance: Rohan · ID: 1048
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=7&form_story_filter=1048>
Reviewer: sulriel
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=7>
· 2005-05-04 09:16:31 Score: 2
Wonderful!! It is so very nice to find another horse-focused story, they are
much too under-used in this fandom that is so rich in the Rohirric culture.
Very nice portrayal. Thank you for writing!!

Title: Servant of
<http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterlistview.asp?SID=2574> Elbereth ·
Author: Beethoven's
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=28
9> 7th · Races/Places: Villains · ID: 796
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=7&form_story_filter=796>
Reviewer: sulriel
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=7>
· 2005-05-04 09:26:40 Score: 2
What a lovely little villain, and yes, it does help to explain some things
that seemed to otherwise be glossed over. Keep up the good work.

Title: May the Valar
<http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterlistview.asp?SID=1> Protect Them ·
Author: Nilmandra
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=44
4> · Books/Time: The Lord of The Rings: Elves · ID: 1055
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=7&form_story_filter=1055>
Reviewer: daw
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=17
6> the minstrel · 2005-05-04 20:35:33 Score: 10
This is an absolutely wonderful story of an ordinary Elf-woman doing
extraordinary things because she loves and is brave. It has a gripping plot,
realistic characters, and some fabulous moments along the way.I cannot tell
you how moving I found the Solstice ceremony, for instance. It joined the
mourning and hope of individuals and a whole community. Very nicely done.

I also liked the scenes between Thranduil and Lathron. Thranduil comes
through as a caring parent fumbling his way toward a child who is not easy
for him to understand, but who still finds a place in his heart. And I
really liked how the elves deliberately made themselves as menacing as
possible while questioning the leader of the caravan, particularly the
detail of Sadron and Laerion being so close behind that he could feel their
body heat.

And I love the images of baby Legolas playing and laughing. For him, the
world is very small. It's the people around him and that means the world is
a good place.

And right to the end, I feel for Tathiel. After caring for them so long, the
children must feel like her own, particlarly Legolas, given that she nursed
him. But Rawien is so tender with her that I'm sure she'll find joy too.

Thank you for this wonderful story, Nilmandra. It is exciting and moving. It
picks up major themes and still shows the daily events that are important to
those who live through them. Your battle scenes and family scenes are
equally effective.

Title: History <http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterlistview.asp?SID=6>
Lessons · Author: Nilmandra
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=44
4> · Books/Time: The Silmarillion · ID: 1056
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=7&form_story_filter=1056>
Reviewer: daw
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=17
6> the minstrel · 2005-05-04 20:58:19 Score: 10
One of the most original parts of this story is the double time frame. That
is just a brilliant idea. And it makes sense, given the deathlessness of
elves. Nothing like getting history from the horse's mouth. The Third Age
twins are very engaging but throughout this story, it's the First Age events
that I find most gripping. The story shows the depth of your research and
real care in structuring it for us.

The character who stands out is of course Elrond. His adult understanding of
his parents' choice was poignant. No child could be expected to understand
and forgive an adult who abandoned him, but the adult the child becomes
can.The contrast between Elrond's childhood and the one he gives his sons is
poignant. You give us sweaty Glorfindel, mischievous twins, harrassed
Erestor, and elf sex before you even get to the sons of Feanor.

And Maedhros is scary. I like your explanation for why Madros finally
decided to act and return the twins to their own people - it's possible that
Maedhros would have harmed them now that they were of no more use to him. He
would have regretted it afterwards, but he might have done it anyway.

Elrond continued to move me even as he grew toward adulthood. He is so
earnest and so hard on himself. In him, you can really see the lore master
of Imladris who shelters those who need it, especially the heirs of Isildur,
his brother's descendents. It's like he gives to everyone else the stability
and shelter that he missed as a small child and may never have thought he
deserved later.One of the many things I like about this story is that Elrond
now has Celebrian to comfort him for his sense of loss over Elros. It makes
me very sad that he will lose her too, but at least he will find her again.

One of the touching aspects of this is how different Elrond and Elros are
and yet how loyal they are to one another. Neither one seems to feel he has
to say that the other's way is less worthy.

I would never even attempt to write about something as sweeping and mythic
in stature as this battle. And I actually teared up at the sound of the call
of the Valar and the idea that Elros and Elrond heard both calls. The
glimpse of the Feanorians was strangely moving. What a tragedy that all was.

The choice was so painful and Elrond just did not have a clue about what was
coming. I also really liked seeing Gil-galad, Celeborn, and Elrond decide
that they had things they wanted to do yet in Middle-earth. The whole scene
was epic - mountains crashing, floods drowning the land, and the powers that
be trying to decide how to work out the practicalities of dealing with what
they had wrought.

In general, you brought so much of The Silmarillion alive for me in a way I
don't think I could have done for myself. And you have given Elrond a depth
that is so enriching. It colors my view of him now. What a tragic and yet
deeply good person he is. This is just an amazing achievement.


Title: History <http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterlistview.asp?SID=1007>
Lessons: The Second Age · Author: Nilmandra
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=44
4> · Books/Time: The Silmarillion: Second Age · ID: 1057
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=7&form_story_filter=1057>
Reviewer: daw
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=17
6> the minstrel · 2005-05-05 10:59:42 Score: 10
There are a lot of canon things in this story that are worked out in quite
believable ways. I really liked the section about Glorfindel. The tapestries
were a great device for recapping the story and for letting us see that time
has passed while he's been in the Halls of Mandos. His awakening was also
very interesting. IHis joy in just existing in a body is wonderful.

Cirdan is amusing. He has no time for silliness but is so utterly
trustworthy. And despite his gruffness, he loves Gil-Galad, Elrond, and
Elros. I liked the idea that Glorfindel's innocence made him transparent to
the trustworthy.

Annatar is so seductive and creepy. Even his good looks will prejudice
people in his favor. He's so oily and slick and just strange! The scene
where he is working on the rings is wonderful. Celebrimbor makes me want to
slap him even though I know bad things are going to happen to him.

The moment when Galadriel approaches Elrond about using the rings was an
intriguing one. I can see her doing it. And I can see Celeborn being
worried. In general, the stuff about the rings is well done. When we read
LOTR, the rings of power are just given facts and we know about them, but
when you put yourself in the place of the people just learning about them,
you have to wonder how they ever figured them out. No one knew about them,
after all. They were a new threat. And usually with new threats, you only
know how bad they are after it's too late to do you any good. The
description of their making and the meanings of the stones was wonderful.

I thought this was a compelling and terrible picture of war, told through
the young eyes of Erestor. I liked watching Gil-galad confer with his
advisors and decide, with great difficulty, to send Elrond. I am just
riveted by this picture of the Second Age which has never before seemed very
compelling to me.

I loved the finding of the valley of Imladris -- I thought that was
exciting! It was like seeing history at work. We know what Imladris meant
for millennia after this, so to see it being found was just thrilling. Go
Erestor!

I also liked the inclusion of the children -- their presence showed
something about how horrible the war was without you having to belabor the
point. Also I liked the way Glorfindel took them on and cared for them, and
then they turned up as adults in the camp.

I love the way you've brought the seige of Imladris to life and also the
problems of dealing with this mixed population of elves and men. They'd each
have things to find out about the other.

This was truly wonderful, Nilmandra. You've made it all come alive and
anchored it to the quiet, strong figure of Elrond, who struggles along doing
what's right. I

Title: Swan
<http://www.henneth-annun.net/challenge/chapter.cfm?STID=4204&NGID=286>
Flight · Author: AmandaK
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=20
9> · Genres: Drama (includes Angst): Gondor · ID: 84
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=7&form_story_filter=84>
Reviewer: Raksha
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=17
8> the Demon · 2005-05-07 03:03:08 Score: 2
Boys will be boys, even the well-instructed sons of Denethor. Nice
characterisation of the young brothers; showing Boromir's reckless,
impulsive nature and Faramir's more cautious temperament. And Denethor is
also well-written.

Title: Just
<http://homepage.ntlworld.com/matthew.adams1/personal/isabeau_drabbles.htm#c
hop> A Bit Of Chop · Author: Isabeau
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=18
2> of Greenlea · Books/Time: Post-Ring War: General Drabble · ID: 30
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=7&form_story_filter=30>
Reviewer: Raksha
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=17
8> the Demon · 2005-05-07 03:09:07 Score: 1
I loved this piece - short and sweet and very funny. Poor, poor Eomer!

Title: Noble <http://www.tolkienfanfiction.com/Story_Read_Head.php?STid=6>
Jewel · Author: Isabeau
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=18
2> of Greenlea · Races/Places: Gondor: Original Characters · ID: 741
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=7&form_story_filter=741>
Reviewer: Raksha
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=17
8> the Demon · 2005-05-07 03:13:30 Score: 3
I'm usually pre-disposed to indifference towards original characters; and
normally would avoid a story whose characters are all-original, not to
mention a story where a connection to a canon-character is made with an
OC...But NOBLE JEWEL is just so compelling and well-written that it took me
along for a wonderful ride. Sigh. Very enjoyable!

Title: The Heirs of <http://www.freewebs.com/aure/heirsofisildurthe.htm>
Isildur · Author: Marta
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=16
> · Genres: Humor: Drabble · ID: 24
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=7&form_story_filter=24>
Reviewer: Raksha
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=17
8> the Demon · 2005-05-07 03:17:53 Score: 2
Very cute and funny, without making Elrond too commonplace a character. But
even a wise Elf (or half-Elf) can be fuzzy if awakened too quickly or
early...

Title: Realizations
<http://home.earthlink.net/%7Eamebrindrastories/id8.html> · Author:
amebrindra
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=13
8> · Genres: Drama (includes Angst): Gapfiller · ID: 771
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=7&form_story_filter=771>
Reviewer: Legorfilinde
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=54
> · 2005-05-07 16:57:42 Score: 6
The first time I read Realizations I was absolutely blow away. I could not
believe what an indepth insight Amebrindra had into the young and innocent
lives of Elladan and Elrohir. This was such an emotionally heartrending
account of their first real seperation and their dire need for one another.
She had me in tears as I read through their ordeal and then she filled me
with joy as they were reunited. Amebrindra made these characters come to
life with a vibrancy that is uncanny. They became very real for me; as real
as if I knew them personally and felt each sorrow and joy with them. This is
an excellent piece of creative writing and the others stories in this arc
are even more incredible. --Legorfilinde

Title: Ode to <http://www.fanfiction.net/s/1928297/1/> Legolas · Author:
Ainaechoiriel
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=2>
· Genres: Humor: Poetry · ID: 5
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=7&form_story_filter=5>
Reviewer: Marta
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=16
> · 2005-05-08 19:23:38 Score: 2
Interesting filk. It might be better if the third line of the second stanza
was a syllable longer, but other than that it was really enjoyable.

Title: Dawn <http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterlistview.asp?SID=643> ·
Author: Acacea
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=19
6> · Books/Time: Post-Ring War: Gondor · ID: 251
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=7&form_story_filter=251>
Reviewer: Marta
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=16
> · 2005-05-09 18:44:06 Score: 10
"In his own mind, he was there to acquit himself of sins he himself was not
sure of. But sins there must be, his weary mind had told him. Sins committed
long before unknowingly, sins committed recently, knowingly, and worst of
all the sin of dreaming a dream that brought nothing but sorrow in its
wake."

This has to be one of the best lines I've read in the stories nominated this
year (to date, at least). It is entirely true: when something goes wrong, it
is human nature to look for something that *we* did wrong, because then if
we change that thing we do, bad stuff will stop happening to us. Of course
it just does not work that way, but it is the most natural thing in the
world to think that way.

Personally, I belong to the school of thought that Denethor really loved
Faramir. He did not do such a good job of showing it to him at least in the
course of the books. With everything else that was going on (the death of
Boromir, Denethor's mental decline due to his use of the palantír, et
cetera), not to say anything about the stress of being the two most powerful
men in a country on the horizon of a war, where that country's very survival
is at stakes.

Anyway, it is so sad that Faramir needed Éowyn to make him want to return
from war. Understandable, though. At the end, even if Denethor loved him, I
do not think that Faramir necessarily realized it. They were both screwed up
by that point. You did a fine job of getting all of this across, in so few
words and in an entertaining fashion.

Title: On the <http://www.henneth-annun.net/stories/chapter.cfm?STID=1836>
Flood · Author: Acacea
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=19
6> · Races/Places: Gondor: Original Characters · ID: 284
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=7&form_story_filter=284>
Reviewer: Marta
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=16
> · 2005-05-09 20:20:42 Score: 5
This story had a nice feel to it, sort of like Alawa's "A Jewel in the
Crown". Your original character narrator was just so fully developed. He had
a back story that seemed to extend beyond the limits of the screen, somehow.
Sort of how the props department for the LOTR movies put so much much effort
into things that might never be seen on screen, but gave the set a feel of
realism.

Your OC character was delightful. The riddle about the frogs (one my uncle
also told me) was a very nice touch, and I loved the infusion of politics
and strategy. All in all, a very enjoyable read.

Title: Raven and
<http://www.tolkienfanfiction.com/Story_Read_Head.php?STid=141> Gold ·
Author: Acacea
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=19
6> · Books/Time: The Lord of The Rings: Drabble · ID: 52
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=7&form_story_filter=52>
Reviewer: Marta
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=16
> · 2005-05-09 20:52:33 Score: 4
"He spoke to her of a garden they would build across the river."

There's something magical about this last line. I can't really pinpoint what
it is, exactly, but it just seems such a beautiful and fitting conclusion to
this drabble.

I am not a natural romantic ;-) but I can feel Faramir's love for her. That
may be why I like this line so much: because it's such a practical thing,
and yet effused with emotion all the way through. Well done!

Title: The Riders
<http://www.henneth-annun.net/stories/chapter.cfm?STID=2236> from Erech ·
Author: Acacea
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=19
6> · Books/Time: Gap-Filler: Grey Company · ID: 325
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=7&form_story_filter=325>
Reviewer: Marta
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=16
> · 2005-05-09 21:28:43 Score: 4
I really love gapfillers -- the more obscure, the better. It's the reason I
first came to fan fiction, because I want to explore these scenes that
Tolkien never seemed to find the time to write. This isn't a scene that I
particularly ever wanted to write myself, but I loved how you told it.
Angbor -- who was never more than a name to me before I read this -- became
three-dimensional. You told this moment skillfully, and his fear was
palpable. Thank you for an enjoyable read.

Title: Words <http://www.henneth-annun.net/stories/chapter.cfm?STID=2066>
Unsaid · Author: Acacea
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=19
6> · Genres: Drama (includes Angst): Gapfiller · ID: 55
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=7&form_story_filter=55>
Reviewer: Marta
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=16
> · 2005-05-09 23:11:55 Score: 7
It is rare that a piece, especially one this short, moves me to tears -- but
this one did.

You have captured all the poignancy of the relationship between Denethor and
Faramir, and in less than one thousand words. And you have also shed some
light on their family history. Finduilas offering advice to Boromir and
Faramir. Denethor failing to express his love and commitment to Finduilas
like he might like. Denethor regretting sending Faramir out unthanked, and
at the same time he vows not to fail Faramir again.

The greatest thing about this vignette, though, is that it makes sense of
the insensible, at least as much as anything could: Denethor's suicide. And
it makes sense, not by appealing to Denethor's pride, but to his love for
Faramir. (Which I think really did exist, even if it was not as strong or at
least as obvious as his love for Boromir.) You have done a fine job of
getting into what is certainly a very cryptic mind.

Title: Dance of
<http://www.henneth-annun.net/stories/chapter.cfm?STID=3312> Terrible Grace
· Author: Adina
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=19
8> ATL · Races/Places: Cross-Cultural: Vignette · ID: 57
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=7&form_story_filter=57>
Reviewer: Marta
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=16
> · 2005-05-09 23:22:17 Score: 2
I really like your story. Too often Legolas is reduced to a bit of a pansy,
but here we see him in all the fury of his Wood-elf glory. Shades of
Celeborn, even. Well done.

Title: Mariner's
<http://www.henneth-annun.net/stories/chapter.cfm?STID=3199> Son · Author:
Adina
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=19
8> ATL · Books/Time: The Lord of The Rings: Rivendell · ID: 326
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=7&form_story_filter=326>
Reviewer: Marta
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=16
> · 2005-05-09 23:46:29 Score: 6
Another enjoyable scene. it's nice to see a new perspective on the great
events of the First Age. Hobbits really do shed new light on such things!
But I think my favourite thing about this vignette is the treatment of
Elrond. So often we get men-are-weak!Elrond, all gloom and doom like he is
portrayed in the recent movies. But here you give him humanity (or elfanity,
I suppose -- you know what I mean, you make him more approachable). He is a
character who generations of young heirs of Isildur (to say nothing of his
own children) would find approachable.

Thank you for this illuminating moment. I never thought how Bilbo might feel
about Aragorn's comment, but this is a nice peak into an area of
Middle-earth lore that I had not considered before.

Title: Opening <http://www.henneth-annun.net/stories/chapter.cfm?STID=2650>
Doors · Author: Adina
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=19
8> ATL · Races/Places: Cross-Cultural · ID: 359
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=7&form_story_filter=359>
Reviewer: Marta
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=16
> · 2005-05-10 01:14:58 Score: 10
There are many things about this story that I could comment on (and a story
like this certainly deserves the points), but I think my favourite part is
probably the fact that Narvi is female. Finally another author who takes
Gimli's words seriously that dwarf-women were often mistaken for dwarf-men.
Not that dwarves of either gender get nearly enough treatment in fan
fiction, but when they are, it is too often assumed that all dwarves we meet
are male. For all we know any of Bilbo's companions could have been female
(Now, there is a challenge! Though I think Tolkien probably meant them to be
male.), and certainly 1/3 of the original character dwarves we create should
be female.

But you have taken the superb challenge of writing femslash between a dwarf
and a Noldor. I'm not sure you could create a more challenging pairing than
we're given here. The Noldor, because there's all of 'Laws and Customs of
the Eldar' that you have to take into account when justifying the slash (and
in this case Galadriel is married, which makes everything even more
complicated, in light of Finwe and Miriel). And the dwarf, because they are
widely considered asexual. How many Gimli romances would there be if not for
Gimli/Legolas slash? Not many, I don't think.

And yet, somehow you pull this off in this piece. I'm really not sure how
you manage it, but we likes it. The erotica works. At times it feels a bit
extraneous to the plot, but that depends on how you view the plot. If it is
just about the construction of the Doors of Moria... well, that is the
obvious plot, but it is also a tad simplistic. If, on the other hand, it is
about Narvi's embracing of a culture besides her own, the romance is very
central. It is interesting to read a story that operates on two levels like
this one does. I cannot wait to read the sequel -- which I will do as soon
as I can find the time.

Title: Walls and
<http://www.henneth-annun.net/stories/chapter.cfm?STID=4166> Gates · Author:
Adina
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=19
8> ATL · Genres: Romance · ID: 1041
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=7&form_story_filter=1041>
Reviewer: Marta
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=16
> · 2005-05-10 02:27:50 Score: 9
This piece was very nice. In some ways it was better than the prequel --
there were more details than Elven culture (and Dwarvish culture for tht
matter), which I really liked. And I loved the cast of characters,
especially Cadie. She was delightful and I would love to see more of her.

But the emotional impact of Narvi's falling out with Galadriel seemed cut
short. I felt like I needed more to get her (Narvi) from her very realistic
anger at being manipulated (so she thought) by Galadriel, to her willingness
to stay in Ost-in-Edhil. It seems like she just caves, and it seemed
out-of-character for a Dwarf, especially a Dwarf of the character that you
created throughout this pair of stories.

I also wanted more. Maybe there should be another piece in the series (if
there isn't already -- if there is, please let me know where I can find it!)
I would love to see the relationship between Celebrimbor and Celeborn
explored in more depth. And Celebrimbor's relationship to the Moriquendi,
there seemed to be a lot of material you could develop through that. Would
Noldor or Moriquendi be more willing to reside permanently in Narvi's
fortress, and how would that affect the other's impression of them? And
Galadriel and Narvi... they need to rebuild that relationship.

Just a thought. *evil grin*


[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]

Msg# 5091

Reviews Final as of 8/17/2005 part 7 Posted by Ainaechoiriel August 17, 2005 - 23:10:13 Topic ID# 5091
Title: Fear <http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterlistview.asp?SID=421> ·
Author: Ariel
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=16
2> · Races/Places: Hobbits: Pre-War of the Ring · ID: 688
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=8&form_story_filter=688>
Reviewer: Inkling
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=28
3> · 2005-05-10 02:37:27 Score: 10
This is an ambitious, complex, and deeply absorbing story, weaving together
two major story lines and several subplots. It’s all here: a large cast of
memorable characters, heart-felt emotions, serious themes, a wealth of
background material…the things that bring a story to life!

The characterizations—both canon and original—are all first-rate. Albarus
Clearwater is the villain you love to hate, one of the few evil doctors I
have encountered in fiction. The thoughtfully portrayed Drogo is the father
you wish every child could have; I kept longing for him to return and set
everything, and everyone, to rights. Just one of the qualities of the story
that made it seem Dickensian to me…

In between are many characters painted in nuanced shades of grey. The
disagreeable Dody is gradually revealed as a deeply troubled youth who wins
our sympathy, while his stepmother, Marietta, turns out not to be the witch
Dody sees her as—though neither is she an angel. Ariel has a talent for
revealing a character’s many facets…for example, managing to make Menegilda
likeable to the reader, even though she and Drogo loathe each other.

Frodo’s strength of character is revealed in so many little ways: his
perception that Dody’s neglect presents an opportunity, his determination to
“fix” his problems with his mother, and above all his refusal to wallow in
self-pity,

The description of Brandy Hall is marvelous; I could picture it perfectly.
And Ariel captured very well the nuances of the hobbits’ social class
system…healers are not working class, but neither are they gentry.
“Primula…retained a distance that Daisy found strangely reassuring.”

I mentioned serious themes, and there are several: alienation, parental
fear, and child abuse. Ariel does a masterful job of capturing the
destructive dynamic between abuser and victim. Especially horrifying was the
idea that Dody was trying to goad his father into beating him to death. And
what a chillingly believable portrait of an abuser—from the eagerness in his
voice beforehand to his creepy repentance afterwards.

While there are many dark moments, the story ends on a lovely note of hope
and redemption, in which everyone truly gets what they deserve and we are
able, for that moment at least, to suspend our knowledge of the sorrow and
loss that lie in Frodo’s future.


Title: The
<http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterview.asp?sid=3086&cid=11963> Colors of
Passing · Author: Larner
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=24
2> · Genres: Drama (includes Angst): Gapfiller · ID: 789
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=8&form_story_filter=789>
Reviewer: Inkling
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=28
3> · 2005-05-10 02:39:27 Score: 7
What an emotional rollercoaster this little story is: by turns horrifying,
hopeful, and sad—that Aragorn’s light could bring Frodo back, but not
protect him from the pockets of darkness that lingered still—and yet, in the
end, still hopeful.

The brief, devastating glimpse of Frodo at the Sammath Naur is one of the
most powerful accounts of this famous scene that I have ever read, as this
incredible passage exemplifies: “The agony of his body is now seen as
exquisite pleasure; the agony of his soul as desire fulfilled. His friend is
now his enemy; the Enemy is merely a rival.”

The color symbolism is well done, but not overdone. As in all of Larner’s
stories, there is a nice and thoughtful attention to detail here. We know
that the scent of athelas is different for each person, but how does it
smell to Frodo? Larner tells us, and she has got it exactly right.


Title: Dreme <http://www.geocities.com/singeaddams/Dreme.html> · Author:
Singe
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=40
1> · Books/Time: Post-Ring War: Aman · ID: 858
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=8&form_story_filter=858>
Reviewer: Inkling
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=28
3> · 2005-05-10 02:44:46 Score: 9
Within the first few lines of “Dreme” is a passage that gives you a pretty
good idea of what you’re in for: “Gandalf, a hard traveler who usually
looked like something a bear had caught in its fur…”

The quirky, irreverent humor of this story is just one of its many
charms—and moods. Like hobbits themselves, the off-hand, tongue-in-cheek
style of “Dreme” can be disarmingly deceptive…which makes the angst, when it
comes, all the more powerful by catching you unawares.

“This place was out of a fairy story,” thought Frodo, and so, too, seems
Singe’s prose at times. At one point it actually adopts that form outright,
as a tale Frodo is telling to himself in what is, perhaps, the story’s most
moving passage: “There once was a hero…” The significance of the counting is
devastating when it finally hits you.

For behind all the jabs at the “ridiculous clothes” and Frodo’s
hilarious—and yet touching—flirtation with Celebrian (“I seem to have lost a
finger in your hair” ) lurk some very serious themes of loss, survival, and
the power of memory, and a lovely final note of hope and renewal. This is
one of the most delightfully original Valinor fics I have yet to read…one
that leaves me, on every reading, all choked up but grinning like a fool.


Title: Foreshadowing
<http://www.henneth-annun.net/stories/chapter.cfm?STID=1588> · Author:
Zimraphel
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=33
9> · Books/Time: The Silmarillion: Second Age · ID: 610
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=8&form_story_filter=610>
Reviewer: Marta
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=16
> · 2005-05-10 12:51:19 Score: 4
This is a hauntil tale. I was reminded of Galadriel's statement regarding
the mirror: "things that are, and things that were, and some things that
have not yet come to pass". This seems to fit Palantir's foresight that we
see in this piece. I loved seeing Miriel's fighting spirit, too -- too
often, I tend to view her as the passive victim. At least here she is
resisting Pharazôn, who even she sees is a negative influence.

Title: Making <http://www.henneth-annun.net/stories/chapter.cfm?STID=1786>
Verses · Author: Zimraphel
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=33
9> · Books/Time: Gap-Filler · ID: 611
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=8&form_story_filter=611>
Reviewer: Marta
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=16
> · 2005-05-11 03:44:37 Score: 4
Obviously Zimraphel couldn't have had Adina ATL's "The Mariner's Son" in
mind when she wrote this piece (at least I don't think she did, as the two
pieces are by different authors). But they do fit together into a nice pair.
Here we get the Elves' side of the story, their biting humour and mocking of
Bilbo. I especially loved the fact that Lindir *did* guess what was
Aragorn's addition -- how funny!

Title: What Cannot be
<http://www.henneth-annun.net/stories/chapter.cfm?STID=2579> Undone ·
Author: Zimraphel
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=33
9> · Races/Places: Elves: Imladris · ID: 1013
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=8&form_story_filter=1013>
Reviewer: Marta
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=16
> · 2005-05-11 14:07:40 Score: 2
Nice story -- it gives good insight into how the changes in Elrohir and
Elladan might have impacted the other residents of Rivendell.

Title: Good Enough
<http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterlistview.asp?SID=3453> · Author:
Karenator
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=10
> · Races/Places: Elves: Mirkwood · ID: 217
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=8&form_story_filter=217>
Reviewer: daw
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=17
6> the minstrel · 2005-05-11 16:27:45 Score: 10
The most impressive part of this story is the changing first person point of
view. I think first person is hard to do at all, much less to catch the
voices a several characters and this story does that well.

The characters are worth catching too. We see serious Legolas and
not-so-serious Daeron, who is a complete hoot. And we see the older
brothers, who come across as devoted to the realm and to one another

I also liked the clever and often humorous use of language. So for instance
we get Daeron's suggestion that they claim "wood elf defense." That's
hilarious. And these two lines cracked me up:

Daeron sighed heavily. “You are so funny, Legolas,” he said dryly. “I can
hardly contain my laughter. You should ask your adar to assign you to court
jester.”


“I have,” I said. “He does not think I am very humorous.” As best as I could
with limbs as sturdy as straw, I punched my pillow up to raise my head.
“What else did this clean Elf say?”

And then I was completely enthralled by Daeron's report of his encounter
with the clean elf. Wow! What a wonderfully useful smart mouth. Daeron is
perceptive and cynical. What a great combination. It's interesting to
speculate if he has sight like the queen does.

I liked other small details too. I was struck by the finality of the wrist
band Aldamir wears. The fact that it marks him forever seems symbolic of the
way a warrior's experience must mark and change him forever. And I pictured
what it would be like for someone to find a body with this particular
bracelet: Aldamir Thranduilion. There's something touchingly simple about
that.



Title: Last Hope
<http://www.henneth-annun.net/stories/chapter.cfm?STID=2296> · Author:
AfterEver
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=20
2> · Races/Places: Cross-Cultural · ID: 64
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=8&form_story_filter=64>
Reviewer: daw
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=17
6> the minstrel · 2005-05-11 16:28:06 Score: 2
Poor Gilraen. I know she is starting a different part of her life and that
it too can be interesting and rewarding, but she has lost her husband, her
hope of a new baby, and the continuity she could create by telling her son
about his father.


Title: You <http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterview.asp?sid=1993&cid=8580>
Ask Too Much · Author: LKK
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=34
7> · Books/Time: The Lord of The Rings: Drabble · ID: 643
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=8&form_story_filter=643>
Reviewer: daw
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=17
6> the minstrel · 2005-05-11 16:28:36 Score: 1
Sometimes a drabble is just 100 words. Period. But this one is poetic in its
brevity and compression.

Title: Moriquendi:
<http://www.henneth-annun.net/stories/chapter.cfm?STID=4752> The Gendered
Other in Tolkien Fanfiction · Author: adn_heming
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=20
0> · Genres: Non-Fiction: Elves · ID: 58
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=8&form_story_filter=58>
Reviewer: Marta
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=16
> · 2005-05-11 22:43:29 Score: 3
I might argue with the author about whether a certain characteristic is
necessarily "feminine", but that's my feminism getting the better of me, I
think. But moving beyond that, this is a really fabulous essay. I do not
uread enough elf-centric fan fiction to know how prevalent this phenomenon
is, but you have provided a nice explanation of it.

Title: The Sacred
<http://www.henneth-annun.net/stories/chapter.cfm?STID=4252> Warp of
Tolkien's Tapestry · Author: Wordweaver
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=33
8> · Genres: Non-Fiction · ID: 609
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=8&form_story_filter=609>
Reviewer: Marta
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=16
> · 2005-05-11 23:47:57 Score: 3
This was a nice essay -- the insights overall were nice, and the first half
or so was technically good as well. the second half (when the author been
exploring different Christ-figures) seemed to undercut the overall
structure. That said, it was a very nice read.

Title: 110 <http://www.henneth-annun.net/stories/chapter.cfm?STID=4427> ·
Author: Aeneid
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=20
1> · Races/Places: Men · ID: 59
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=8&form_story_filter=59>
Reviewer: Marta
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=16
> · 2005-05-12 00:36:46 Score: 2
This is a nice glimpse into Boromir's search for Imladris. I especially like
the blend of free verse and prose -- very effective way to capture Boromir's
growing desperation!

Title: Sight <http://www.henneth-annun.net/stories/chapter.cfm?STID=4380> ·
Author: Aeneid
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=20
1> · Races/Places: Gondor: Original Characters · ID: 374
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=8&form_story_filter=374>
Reviewer: Marta
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=16
> · 2005-05-12 02:27:34 Score: 10
I have never read Plastic Chevy's story "The Captain and the King". It's a
personal thing; I cannot read 'Boromir lives!' stories, no matter how
masterfully written; it's the same reason why I can't bring myself to read
Adraefan, though from the reviews I have read it's a very good story, too.

Getting back to "Sight", I mention all of this because your piece worked
fine for me withoout ANY knowledge of Plastic Chevy's piece (except for the
fact that Boromir survives Amon Hen, which I gleaned from her summary). You
give just enough background information that the narrative functions on its
own, though I am sure I would have enjoyed it on a higher level if I was
familiar with the larger piece.

And you seem to have a real feel for how to make erotica "work". It was so
nice to see Boromir in a heterosexual relationship. Not that I am
necessarily against slash (I enjoy Boromir slash as much as the next girl
*evil grin*), but I do like the idea of him being able to settle down and
create a family. And I think, if Boromir did choose a wife, it would be
someone like Gil, who was very "real" if you know what I mean.

Which brings me to the other thing about this piece that makes it work so
good. Boromir is very strongly in character. Gil is the kind of woman who I
can see Boromir being attracted to, and every aspect of this piece is
uniquely Boromir. If the leading man was Faramir or Aragorn or Pippin or
whomever, it would all proceed so differently. Combined with a knack for
exposition without overwhelming the narrative, beautiful sensory detail, and
leaving just enough to the imagination (not over-explaining), this is
probably one of the best (canonical character)/OFC romance pieces that I
have ever read. Bravo! (And can I respectfully request more stories about
Boromir and Gil? Or even more romance pieces from you? You are so good at
this!)

Title: The Laughing
<http://www.henneth-annun.net/stories/chapter.cfm?STID=4456> Oliphaunt ·
Author: Aeneid
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=20
1> · Races/Places: Gondor: Original Characters · ID: 998
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=8&form_story_filter=998>
Reviewer: Marta
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=16
> · 2005-05-12 10:16:02 Score: 3
A nice piece -- both the drama and the humour were biting. And the OCs were
very original. I liked seeing what led up to Faramir's revealing his dream
to Boromir, and loved the way you used Gondorian history to develop the folk
lore of the laughing oliphaunts at Poros.

Title: At Losgar
<http://www.henneth-annun.net/stories/chapter.cfm?STID=3732> · Author: Wild
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=33
7> Iris · Races/Places: Elves: Poetry · ID: 604
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=8&form_story_filter=604>
Reviewer: Marta
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=16
> · 2005-05-12 10:28:01 Score: 3
This poem is almost too beautiful and poignant for its gruesome subject
matter. The image of the Teleri ships being nothing but candles was
particularly haunting, especially when you consider that the Kinslaying only
contributed to the metaphorical darkness.

Title: Sercemaitë
<http://www.henneth-annun.net/stories/chapter.cfm?STID=548> · Author:
Aerlinnel
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=28
0> · Races/Places: Elves: First Age · ID: 382
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=8&form_story_filter=382>
Reviewer: Marta
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=16
> · 2005-05-12 12:25:02 Score: 3
I have never been in battle, but I imagine the confusion this story's
narrator exhibits is fairly characteristic; this story also did a
commendable job of getting across his naivete and his anger. I also liked
how you weaved in conflicts between the Noldor and more "primitive" Elves
such as the story's narrator.

Title: The <http://www.henneth-annun.net/stories/chapter.cfm?STID=319>
Twilight · Author: Aerlinnel
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=28
0> · Races/Places: Elves: Imladris · ID: 399
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=8&form_story_filter=399>
Reviewer: Marta
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=16
> · 2005-05-12 13:39:50 Score: 4
This is an engaging story. More pieces should explore how Arwen's choice
effects her brothers. (I have seen other stories that deal with Elrond's
reaction, but this is the first one I have ever seen that touch on her
brothers at all). I particularly liked how you brought in the meaning of
Elladan and Elrohir's names, and how those might reflect their characters.

Title: Promises to
<http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterlistview.asp?SID=2919> Keep · Author:
Leaward
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=22
2> · Races/Places: Men: Eriador · ID: 169
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=8&form_story_filter=169>
Reviewer: quirky_orthodox
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=27
3> · 2005-05-12 17:45:20 Score: 8
Before I happened to fall into this fic, I was very suspicious of Original
Characters. Like many readers, I had seen one too many Mary-Sues paired off
with Legolas, Frodo or Aragorn to really have the motivation to read any
story even featuring an OC, let alone a story featuring only OCs.

Then I read this and had my perceptions turned upside down. Here were
characters with depth, realism and a humanity to them that was so refreshing
it spurred me to keep reading. The Author has had evidently taken the
trouble to exhaustively research and note down the backgrounds of her
characters. I was hooked both by the plot, which was clear and concise, and
by the wonderful little asides which hinted at so much more than what was
simply presented on the page.

The story was inside canon, but in a way I had never seen before, existing
just on the edges yet interacting with the tale of the Quest in a way I
found very pleasing. I have been formally converted to reading OCs because
of this story and its subsequent sequels. I honestly think that this is a
fanfic which could spawn its own fanfiction and that is certainly worthy of
praise.


Title: Dolor Meus
<http://www.henneth-annun.net/stories/chapter.cfm?STID=5032> · Author:
Werecat
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=83
> · Books/Time: Post-Ring War · ID: 897
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=8&form_story_filter=897>
Reviewer: riverotter7
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=40
3> · 2005-05-12 18:39:17 Score: 9
When I first read the synopsis for this story it seemed rather banal. That
was, of course, before I read the story itself. This is one of those stories
that I would call "perfect". In my opinion, to subtract or add too many more
words would seriously detract from it's effectivness. Although short, the
use of emotion definatly moves the reader on multiple levels from the
ordinary to the sublime. This peice certainly does not need to be of 'epic
proportions' to be effective. Werecat has carried her charecters from their
orginal place in Middle Earth to the 14th century (give or take) of our own
world. Over on HASA, the author worried that this story might offend readers
due to religious content, but I heartily disagree that she should have
worried so. Most religons have both compassion and forgiveness as a basis
for their particular salvations. In the story, the author was able to convey
that forgiveness, and she gave compassion to a lost and lonely son. This
story made me weep in both pain for the singer and in joy for his return. I
thank the author for this wonderful story and am very pleased to nominate it
for an award.
Thank you.
Molly Littlefoot

Title: The Last Elf
<http://www.henneth-annun.net/stories/chapter.cfm?STID=1465> Standing ·
Author: Suzene
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=32
0> Campos · Genres: Humor: Elves · ID: 1124
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=8&form_story_filter=1124>
Reviewer: riverotter7
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=40
3> · 2005-05-12 19:31:57 Score: 6
Bless it, I laughed myself off of my chair and rolled around on the rug for
awhile after reading this thing. This is one of those peices that I had to
print off and put in my very own personal hard copy file so I could re-read
it when I really needed a pick-me-up. These two noble elves of rather famous
lineage being petty and snarky with each other was marvelous! I do think
Tranduil did have a point when he mentioned his father and half of the army
vs Elrond's humiliation, though. Heh heh heh. The twins with drum sets,
groupies and a tour schedual; Arwen and the Sindarian kama sutra; Legolas
sent off with a dwarf. I did wonder just *how* it was that the river in
Mirkwood got that unusual repuation. Now I know. Hilarious!
Molly Littlefoot

Title: Circle
<http://www.frodosharem.org/cgi-bin/stories/display.cgi?id=330&sort=date&sto
ryview=toc&chapter=1&cat=7> of Light · Author: White
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=71
> Gull · Books/Time: The Lord of The Rings: Poetry · ID: 1208
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=8&form_story_filter=1208>
Reviewer: Marta
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=16
> · 2005-05-13 00:11:33 Score: 3
I really like this. It's a touching scene about the legacy of the Red Book.
I was a little confused, though, by how the Red Book had passed so
thoroughly into myth before Legolas leaves Middle-earth in FA 120. It might
work better, for example, if you changed the picture to Bilbo and the elf to
Elrohir or Elladan. But other than that, it's a nice little story.

Title: Remembrance <http://www.fanfiction.net/s/1928301/1/> · Author:
Ainaechoiriel
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=2>
· Books/Time: Post-Ring War: Gondor Drabble · ID: 108
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=8&form_story_filter=108>
Reviewer: Marta
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=16
> · 2005-05-13 02:37:05 Score: 6
Often a drabble (or even a longber piece) will focus on the death of one of
the mortal members of the Fellowship; it's nice to see ones like this that
focus on the cumulative affect of ALL those deaths.

This is probably just a stylistic issue, but I find long paragraphs
intimidating. I would prefer that the author had utilised paragraph breaks,
perhaps before "Gandalf and I alone" and "Merry and Pippin will follow" (and
maybe even make "Grief is my burden; remembrance, my destiny" its own
paragraph). I almost think this would work better as a trio of drabbles,
focusing on the departure/death of: Frodo, Sam, and Gandalf; Merry and
Pippin; Aragorn, Legolas, and Gimli.

Hmm, maybe I'll have to do that series myself. See, the sign of a good
drabble: it makes me want to write my own. :-D

Title: Ailurophobia
<http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterlistview.asp?SID=1662> · Author:
Werecat
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=83
> · Genres: Humor: Animals · ID: 115
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=8&form_story_filter=115>
Reviewer: Marta
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=16
> · 2005-05-13 14:23:54 Score: 6
This is a very funny story, and survives re-reading. I have probably read it
a dozen times and each time I end up laughing out loud by "We are hungry,
they said. Feed us, they demanded. Our young are starving, they growled." So
true! Any cat lover knows the shift from plaintive request to demand to
outright viciousness. I can *so* believe that cats would behave like this,
if they figured into Tolkien's mythology. And you've provided a plausible
explanation for his disappearance from canon, besides something like
"Tolkien grew tired of him".

It also plays in niceley with Beruthiel's cats being considered unnatural
and evil by the Gondorians. This story does make me feel for poor Huan,
though. Great big mutt, with all those cats carousing around Angband.



Title: Death,
<http://www.henneth-annun.net/stories/chapter_view.cfm?STID=3840&SPOrdinal=1
> I Call Thee · Author: Werecat
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=83
> · Races/Places: Cross-Cultural · ID: 292
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=8&form_story_filter=292>
Reviewer: Marta
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=16
> · 2005-05-13 17:14:46 Score: 4
This piece does a very effective job of showing all the different viewpoints
in so few words. I especially like how the different viewpoints were so
similar. Though I am not sure that Gondorians would think of themselves as
loyal to the shards of Narsil, given that that is a relic of the North, and
Boromir says at the Council of Elrond that the tale of Narsil surviving was
never told in the South. All in all, though, this was a good piece.

Title: Touche <http://www.henneth-annun.net/stories/chapter.cfm?STID=3561>
· Author: DragonLady7
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=25
9> · Books/Time: Post-Ring War: Vignette · ID: 229
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=8&form_story_filter=229>
Reviewer: Marta
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=16
> · 2005-05-13 18:29:47 Score: 5
Oh, now *this* is hilarious. Eomer's and Faramir's fencing match was vivid
in my mind (perhaps because I've seen my share), and Lothiriel's and Eowyn's
actions likewise made a lot of sense to me.

I was a little confused, though, about where Aragorn came from. For some
place I envisioned this taken place in Ithilien, and while that's not far
from Minas Tirith, there's really no indication of Aragorn being around.
Maybe this last part would work better if it was someone from Ithilien who
popped up there? Maybe Beregond?


[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]

Msg# 5092

Reviews Final as of 8/17/2005 part 8 Posted by Ainaechoiriel August 17, 2005 - 23:11:16 Topic ID# 5092
Title: Beast of <http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterlistview.asp?SID=2325>
Burden . Author: Werecat
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=83
> . Genres: Drama (includes Angst) . ID: 118
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=9&form_story_filter=118>
Reviewer: Marta
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=16
> . 2005-05-13 18:30:33 Score: 6
Your piece reminded me very strongly of a comment made by Aragorn in
Dunharrow to Eowyn, in "The Return of the King": "Then there will be need of
valour without renown, for none shall remember the deeds that are done in
the last defence of your homes. Yet the deeds will not be less valiant
because they are unpraised." You have made your OCs believable and
well-rounded, and that is truly remarkablwe in a horse. Yes, he is a hero;
he probably saved the town, and he showed that he could fight to the very
end. You wrote this without it ever seeing dull or slow, and the horse's POV
seemed distinctly non-human, but still very intelligent. I really enjoyed
this.

Title: In <http://www.henneth-annun.net/stories/chapter.cfm?STID=3011>
Absentia . Author: Zimraphel
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=33
9> . Races/Places: Cross-Cultural . ID: 1010
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=9&form_story_filter=1010>
Reviewer: Marta
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=16
> . 2005-05-13 18:34:27 Score: 8
This is a very well-told story where the author has taken the tantalizing
fragments Tolkien gives us (largely in secondary sources like "Unfinished
Tales"), and has woven this into a full picture. Nay, not just a picture --
a tapestry, woven with bright colours and yet dulled by the passing years,
its edges perhaps a little frayed but its glory still in tact. Elrond and
Valandil are understated as lords on less-than-friendly terms might be (and
you never forget that they are lords, no matter how personal their
interactions), but this does not undercut the emotional impact of Valandil's
continued searching for Isildur's remains. There is a bitterness to
Valandil's wish to take Narsil's shards to Annuminas; it reminds me of the
slight bitterness I always imagine in Denethor's answer that "in Gondor, ten
thousand years would not suffice (to make a steward a king)." It is the only
politic answer, but you can just feel that it is not what the speaker really
wishes. At least I can.

Regardless, this is a touching story, and all the more beautiful for its
obscurity.

Title: Can
<http://www.frodosharem.org/cgi-bin/stories/display.cgi?id=270&sort=date&sto
ryview=toc&chapter=1&cat=7> You Hear Me? . Author: White
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=71
> Gull . Genres: Drama (includes Angst): Poetry . ID: 1211
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=9&form_story_filter=1211>
Reviewer: Marta
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=16
> . 2005-05-13 18:36:07 Score: 2
The rhythm could flow more smoothly in this poem; I had difficulty finding
the metre. Nevertheless, the concept is original and the content was
presented in an engaging manner.

Title: Dolor Meus
<http://www.henneth-annun.net/stories/chapter.cfm?STID=5032> . Author:
Werecat
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=83
> . Books/Time: Post-Ring War . ID: 897
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=9&form_story_filter=897>
Reviewer: Marta
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=16
> . 2005-05-13 23:45:38 Score: 4
I love stories that blend modern times (or "real life" history) with
Middle-earth. It makes Tolkien's world seem so much more real. I
particularly liked the idea of Radagast as Saint Francis of Assissi because
Assissi was so connected to nature. And of course Radagast would have to be
told to sail back to Valinor. He seemed to love Middle-earth a bit *too*
much if you know what I mean. (By the way, I am a Christian -- although a
fairly liberal one -- and I was not offended.)

Title: Eyes like the
<http://henneth-annun.net/stories/chapter.cfm?stid=4609> Moon . Author:
Werecat
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=83
> . Races/Places: Men: Poetry . ID: 125
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=9&form_story_filter=125>
Reviewer: Marta
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=16
> . 2005-05-14 01:07:06 Score: 3
This is a beautiful poem, only made more poignant by the textual notes at
the end. I do not know much about Arabic poetry, but this seemed to flow
well to me. (But I was a bit confused, because the summary suggested a love
poem, while this poem was almost a meditation on a lover who had spurned the
writer.)

Title: Full <http://www.henneth-annun.net/stories/chapter.cfm?STID=4115>
Circle . Author: Werecat
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=83
> . Races/Places: Villains: Orcs . ID: 348
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=9&form_story_filter=348>
Reviewer: Marta
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=16
> . 2005-05-14 01:24:57 Score: 2
Interesting account of the final fate of the race of Orcs. i find it out of
keeping with Tolkien's cahracterisation fo orcs to have them so literary,
especially for a warrior, but as a little AU it is very interesting.

Title: By the Light of
<http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterlistview.asp?SID=2444> Earendil's Star
. Author: Branwyn
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=24
0> . Genres: Drama (includes Angst): Incomplete . ID: 173
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=9&form_story_filter=173>
Reviewer: Raksha
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=17
8> the Demon . 2005-05-14 22:49:44 Score: 8
20-year-old Faramir's in terrible danger in Ithilien; and Boromir sets out
to save him. This sort of story has been done before, but rarely, if ever,
this well. A thinking woman's (or man's) action story - and more. How the
writer manages to color it with beautiful, evocative description and
excellent characterisations in her spare, elegant narrative, never wasting a
word, is beyond me - but if she bottled the ability, I'd buy it!

The fight scenes are unusually well done, but she never loses the human mind
behind the sword. Even the orcs have personality. And after the danger is
done, the story is still extremely compelling, with clever but unobtrusive
touches of humor.

There are a few original characters, who are written so well that one comes
to care very much about them, but the heart of the story is the relationship
between Faramir and Boromir and Denethor. The latter is depicted more as a
loving father than as a monster or crazy man; but the writer deftly reveals
the seeds of the family's future tragedy.

An outstanding story!



Title: The Men Who Would Be
<http://www.suite101.com/article.cfm/tolkien/92091> Steward . Author:
Michael
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=45
5> Martinez . Races/Places: Gondor: Historical . ID: 1137
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=9&form_story_filter=1137>
Reviewer: Raksha
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=17
8> the Demon . 2005-05-14 23:21:39 Score: 4
One of my favorite of Michael Martinez' many fine essays on Tolkien's works.
This one examines the heritage and succession of the Stewards of Gondor. The
work is complex, but the issues examined very clearly, with an interesting
comparison with medieval 'stewards' in France and Scotland/England in our
world. Also, points for recognizing Boromir's good points as well as his
shortcomings.

Title: Grasping at
<http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterlistview.asp?SID=3272> Moonbeams
Glistening . Author: Werecat
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=83
> . Races/Places: Cross-Cultural: Post-War of the Ring . ID: 363
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=9&form_story_filter=363>
Reviewer: Marta
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=16
> . 2005-05-15 12:28:19 Score: 10
I'd never thought I'd say this, but I really enjoyed this Legomance. :-) Not
that I have anything in particular against that genre, because there are
some well-done Legolas romances, even Legolas/OFC romances. But the Elf does
little for me, so what really impressed me about this story is that it made
*me* desire Legolas. The funny thing, though, is I don't think this is
because of any novel insight into Legolas' personality or any stunning prose
used to describe his physical beauty. Instead, it's Nanwen. I identified so
much with her, her physical pain and exhaustion and hopes and fears, that I
became completely immersed in her viewpoint. You did a really fabulous job
with developing her, and getting across that sense of "other" in ways that
don't seem out-of-place for someone of her station. And I loved her
interactions with Gimli especially, and with the other canonical characters.
Though I wasn't too sure about Gandalf telling the apothecary to order
westmansweed from Bree. Tolkien says (quoting Merry's text on pipeweed),
that "(it) came northward from the lower Anduin, whither it was, I suspect,
originally brought over Sea by the Men of Westerness. It grows abundantly in
Gondor, and there is richer and larger than in the North." (LOTR Prologue)
So I think the apothecary might be likely to stockpile it if Gandalf
suggested he did, but he wouldn't need to send to Bree; he'd just have to
send people to collect it from the countryside around Minas Tirith. Just a
thought. But that's really just one nitpick in an otherwise great story.

Title: In Defense
<http://www.henneth-annun.net/stories/chapter.cfm?STID=4026> . Author:
Werecat
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=83
> . Genres: Non-Fiction: Men . ID: 94
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=9&form_story_filter=94>
Reviewer: Marta
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=16
> . 2005-05-15 13:27:33 Score: 8
Queen Beruthiel is such a minor character in canon; just a passing reference
in "The Fellowship of the Rings", and a note in "Unfinished Tales", if I
recall correctly. But she has certainly gotten her share of attention in fan
fiction (perhaps because it gives us cat lovers a chance to write about our
beloved pets?), and it is nice to see someone set the record straight. This
essay had a nice down-to-earth quality; it was fun to read, well
thought-out, and informative. You used historical sources to good effect,
too, using them to prove your point without letting them overwhelm the
essay's flavor. I enjoyed this essay and will recommend it to anyone I know
who is looking for information on Beruthiel. (And for your information, I
have "Beruthiel's cats!" be a swear-phrase in Gondor, and "The Queen's Cats"
the name of a tavern in the lower circles of Minas Tirith. That's my own
invention, but I think you're right that other people besides Aragorn would
remember her.)

Title: In Umbar, at
<http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterlistview.asp?SID=2307> the docks .
Author: Werecat
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=83
> . Genres: Mystery . ID: 117
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=9&form_story_filter=117>
Reviewer: Marta
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=16
> . 2005-05-15 13:32:20 Score: 2
A very interesting story -- it tells just enough without telling too much,
and extrapolates wonderfully from what little canon we have to provide a
full picture of Beruthiel after her exile from Goondor. Well done!

Title: Mushroom <http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterlistview.asp?SID=3515>
Lore . Author: Werecat
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=83
> . Races/Places: Cross-Cultural: Humor . ID: 365
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=9&form_story_filter=365>
Reviewer: Marta
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=16
> . 2005-05-15 15:44:55 Score: 7
I had forgotten, until I reached the notes at the bottom of this story, that
I was the one who suggested using the Sindarin for "death-hats" for the name
of the poisonous mushroom. It was an extra treat to see my name attached to
it, not that I needed such a treat at the end of this story. I love
cross-cultural pieces, those that compare different peoples, but this was
one area that even I hadn't thought to compare: mushroom-lore! Who would
have guessed? And Aragorn's attempt to cover up the fact that he had in fact
travelled to Harad was delightful, as was Gandalf's moment of panic when the
hobbits (I think?) ask what kind of meat the orcs ate. But I think I liked
most Sam's indignations that mushrooms are *not* roasted, they are to be
steamed -- and then his and Pippin's liking the roasted mushrooms. My only
suggestion would be to involve Merry more. He seems strangely absent,
especially given the topic.

Title: Narn
<http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterview.asp?sid=2962&cid=11361> Niben .
Author: Werecat
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=83
> . Genres: Adventure . ID: 140
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=9&form_story_filter=140>
Reviewer: Marta
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=16
> . 2005-05-15 16:28:19 Score: 4
This is another delightful story, Werecat. I really like it; sometimes I
think you shouldn't be allowed to write stories with anything other than
animlas in leading roles, because you do them so well, but then I'm reminded
of "Mushroom Lore"... (By the way, Niben does work for a pet's name, doesn't
it? I used it as a name for a stray cat in one of my stories, and liked it
as well.)

Title: My Girl <http://www.scribeoz.com/fanfic/story.php?no=1411> . Author:
Havetoist
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=32
3> . Books/Time: The Silmarillion: Poetry . ID: 1067
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=9&form_story_filter=1067>
Reviewer: Ingole
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=44
1> . 2005-05-15 23:32:08 Score: 3
This piece is bit of a departure for the creator of "Feud of Shadow and
Light" and "Phoenix's Griffin," but, like the other two works, it is quite
simply a stunner. The language has an epic cadence, akin to a tale being
sung by a minstrel rather than a words-only piece...final note sung chin-up
for victory, eyes down for sorrow.

Heartbreaking. Beautiful.

Title: The Feud of Shadow and
<http://www.scribeoz.com/fanfic/story.php?no=866> Light . Author: Havetoist
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=32
3> . Genres: Alternate Universe: Pre-LOTR . ID: 1290
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=9&form_story_filter=1290>
Reviewer: Ingole
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=44
1> . 2005-05-16 00:04:35 Score: 3
Superb! The writing has a Tolkienesque texture, and the culture that the
author has created breathes it's own very lively breath. "Feud" stands alone
as a mini-epic or, as a prequel, provides an irresistible invitation to
follow the continuing tale of these stunning, wiley, near-savage Rohme.
Catnip. Can't resist it.

Title: Real Men Wear
<http://www.henneth-annun.net/stories/chapter.cfm?STID=375> Jewelry .
Author: Mouse
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=30
6> . Genres: Humor . ID: 488
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=9&form_story_filter=488>
Reviewer: Alassante
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=32
2> . 2005-05-16 09:50:27 Score: 10
This is one of the funniest yet most educated Middle Earth stories I have
read. It is very original and innovative. I think Mouse has done a wonderful
job of portraying her characters in the proper fashion which is very
impressive since she had so many characters both from Lord of the Rings and
the Silm.

Not only was the story in the proper form and characterization for each
different character, her style of writing is amazing. I am so impressed with
her fluid style and great flowing rhythm. She completely blows me away with
her excellent dialog as well as her many details.

To have so many characters in this great story and to not go into detail
about their history and story from either the Silm or Lord of the Rings and
yet you still know a lot about them by her writing is impressive. Not many
writers can do that yet she has done a fabulous job in doing so.

This story has not been posted on the site that I usually visit and where I
heard about it from the forum boards. This great story is so popular, people
are recommending it on the forum boards of other sites. Everyone loves it
and raves about. Its companion piece is just as funny. I had nominated both
for a MEFA yet this one is the only one showing so I must research this
right away ! I think Mouse and her story deserve all of the awards that can
be given. It is probably one of the best humorous stories I have read on any
site. As I have said before, it is recommended every where.

If any story deserves a MEFA, this is one completely.

Title: New
<http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterview.asp?sid=3484&cid=13198> Home .
Author: Tanaqui
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=40
> . Books/Time: Post-Ring War: Ithilien Drabble . ID: 20
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=9&form_story_filter=20>
Reviewer: Raksha
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=17
8> the Demon . 2005-05-16 15:57:30 Score: 2
Excellent drabble; showing in just a few words the gradual effect of peace,
as Beregond rejoices in his son's rediscovered childhood.

Title: Kindred
<http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterview.asp?sid=3140&cid=12146> Spirits .
Author: annmarwalk
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=17
7> . Books/Time: The Lord of The Rings: Drabble . ID: 106
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=9&form_story_filter=106>
Reviewer: Raksha
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=17
8> the Demon . 2005-05-16 16:04:56 Score: 2
Awwww. A great extrapolation on the depth of Gandalf's fondness for Faramir.
A lot of credible feeling in just a few words.

Title: Spring
<http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterview.asp?sid=2982&cid=11477> Planting .
Author: Branwyn
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=24
0> . Genres: Drama (includes Angst): Gondor . ID: 170
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=9&form_story_filter=170>
Reviewer: Raksha
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=17
8> the Demon . 2005-05-16 16:31:54 Score: 2
A wonderful ficlet where Denethor first feels the sharp pang of parental
terror for his younger son, along with the foreshadowing of later events,
when Faramir's wounding by an arrow will be the catalyst for Denethor's
madness and death.

Title: Servant of
<http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterlistview.asp?SID=2574> Elbereth .
Author: Beethoven's
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=28
9> 7th . Races/Places: Villains . ID: 796
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=9&form_story_filter=796>
Reviewer: Chathol-linn
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=23
> . 2005-05-16 18:52:09 Score: 3
An interesting and unconventional look at an Orc. Even the name is
unconventional. I wonder why - did he get to name himself, perhapds
distinguish himself in orther ways than just actions? This story holds the
promise of some good adventures and character development, if the writer
wanted to show how the character go to be the way he's protrayed here.

Title: After <http://www.henneth-annun.net/stories/chapter.cfm?STID=471>
Amputations . Author: Ithilwen
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=28
6> . Races/Places: Elves: Poetry . ID: 1075
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=9&form_story_filter=1075>
Reviewer: Chathol-linn
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=23
> . 2005-05-16 19:29:22 Score: 4
This was probably the first Tolkien fandom poem that I read, and I found it
a powerful and moving lament. Then and now I equated the loss of Maedhros's
hand with the fading of the Elves. The way that Ithilwen captured Maedhros's
sense of loss and regret mirrored and enlarged my own feelings about
Tolkien's immortal Fair Folk. This poem does what good poetry is supposed to
do, and I recommend it highly.

Title: The Old <http://www.fanfiction.net/s/1819850/1/> Dwarf and the Sea .
Author: Isabeau
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=18
2> of Greenlea . Books/Time: Post-Ring War: Incomplete . ID: 3
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=9&form_story_filter=3>
Reviewer: jillian
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=9>
baade . 2005-05-17 07:04:31 Score: 6
Another wonderful example of Isabeau's brilliant characterisations. How can
you not love her Gimli? And Legolas, so elvishly assuming he didn't need
ship building lessons, while Gimli practically planned 'for the just in
case' with his pump.

Other highlights would have to include Leggy being picked on by the Noldor
for his excessive number of children, and his simple one word answer,
'Feanor'. Plus Gimli's eccentric mate being killed in the experiment
explosion and poor fellow, not even Mandos wanted him! I guess elves can be
geeks and nerds too. Lovely story, deserving of a win, which I hope it has.

Title: Sea <http://www.henneth-annun.net/stories/chapter.cfm?STID=4818>
Longing . Author: EdorasLass
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=29
9> . Genres: Drama (includes Angst): Gondor . ID: 699
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=9&form_story_filter=699>
Reviewer: Raksha
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=17
8> the Demon . 2005-05-17 23:40:23 Score: 2
One of the better explanations for Finduilas' decline and eventual
death...and a charming, atypical but quite credible characterization of
Boromir and Faramir as young children.


[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]

Msg# 5093

Reviews Final as of 8/17/2005 part 9 Posted by Ainaechoiriel August 17, 2005 - 23:12:08 Topic ID# 5093
Title: While the Ring
<http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterlistview.asp?SID=449> Went South... ·
Author: Thundera
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=86
> Tiger · Books/Time: Gap-Filler · ID: 33
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=10&form_story_filter=33>
Reviewer: jillian
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=9>
baade · 2005-05-18 07:28:47 Score: 2
A classic story with classic writing. That is, a very very good gapfiller
written by a talented writer. Favourite bit has to be Gimli's pack of rocks!

Title: Old Wives'
<http://www.henneth-annun.net/stories/chapter.cfm?STID=4419> Tales · Author:
Werecat
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=83
> · Races/Places: Gondor: Original Characters · ID: 350
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=10&form_story_filter=350>
Reviewer: Marta
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=16
> · 2005-05-19 02:51:53 Score: 3
This is a tantalizing tale; I can very easily see these superstitions
arising in Rohan (where cats don't seem to be favored as much as dogs, at
least in the movies, and where superstitions seem to be given more credence.
Your Eowyn was very well rounded and after the read I wanted to know more
about Luthwen. It was spooky without being overwhelmingly horrific.

Title: The One and
<http://www.henneth-annun.net/stories/chapter.cfm?STID=4294> True Dark Lord
· Author: Werecat
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=83
> · Genres: Crossovers · ID: 358
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=10&form_story_filter=358>
Reviewer: Marta
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=16
> · 2005-05-19 12:31:16 Score: 3
I never would have believed Silmarillion/Harry Potter crossover would work.
Of course I never thought of either Voldemort or Melkor as at all snarky.
Well done -- this very clever piece managed to overcome my preliminary
scepticism, and I really enjoyed it.

Title: Two Drabbles: Tar-Miriel and the
<http://www.fanfiction.net/s/1928291/1/> Waves · Author: Ainaechoiriel
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=2>
· Books/Time: The Silmarillion: Drabble · ID: 107
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=10&form_story_filter=107>
Reviewer: sulriel
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=7>
· 2005-05-20 07:55:27 Score: 2
I appreciate the clever use of repeitition of word and thought in this
drabble set, the meter gives it a unique, almost poetic rythym. very nice.

Title: Remembrance <http://www.fanfiction.net/s/1928301/1/> · Author:
Ainaechoiriel
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=2>
· Books/Time: Post-Ring War: Gondor Drabble · ID: 108
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=10&form_story_filter=108>
Reviewer: sulriel
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=7>
· 2005-05-20 07:57:42 Score: 2
This is well done, excellent use of the one hundred words of a drabble. your
word choices are pointed and specific and pack a lot of meaning in each
thought. well done!!

Title: The Death of <http://www.finitechess.com/cyberspace/me/morteme.htm>
Middle-Earth · Author: BarrowWight
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=21
8> · Books/Time: Post-Ring War: Incomplete · ID: 98
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=10&form_story_filter=98>
Reviewer: sulriel
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=7>
· 2005-05-20 08:07:39 Score: 8
This is an wonderfully ambitious work, delightfully rich in JRR Tolkien's
world but at the same time, stretching canon near to breaking without
forceing that 'snap!'. The half-Noldorin Orc, Morsul, and the other original
characters, both Orc and Elf, are deep and well-thought-out. The Canon
characters delightfully subtly darkened. Barrowwight's world shadows and
parallel's Tolkien's to a frightening degree. This is the story that was not
told in the comfortable Hall of Fire or the sitting rooms of Gondor in the
years after; these are the things we may not, probably do not, want to know.
This is the other side of the ending with horrific accuracy and detail,
delving deeper, perhapes, than many of us may want to go into Orc, and
Elvish, culture. and as BarrowWight proclaims, no attempts have been made to
keep this warm and fuzzy like that 'other', more popular writing, the
Redbook. So, while I highly recommend this work, I will also say, "Reader
Beware!" because it shake loose your preconceptions of happy endings and
life in the Fourth Age.

Title: Tides of
<http://www.henneth-annun.net/stories/chapter.cfm?STID=3957> Time · Author:
Werecat
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=83
> · Genres: Alternate Universe: Post-LOTR · ID: 368
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=10&form_story_filter=368>
Reviewer: Marta
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=16
> · 2005-05-21 05:01:19 Score: 5
This is an interesting tale, and I like it for its mythic qualities. I
suppose it makes sense that Anduril would survive past Aragorrn; after all,
it had survived since Isildur's time and before that since when Telchar
first forged it. I do wish you could have told it without bringing Gandalf
back from Valinor. It would have been nice to have it canon-compliant, for
example, to have Celeborn or one of the twins or some other immortal who
didn't sail over the seas be the one to move it.

Title: When All
<http://www.henneth-annun.net/stories/chapter.cfm?STID=4279> Lights Pass ·
Author: Werecat
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=83
> · Genres: Alternate Universe: Pre-LOTR · ID: 349
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=10&form_story_filter=349>
Reviewer: Marta
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=16
> · 2005-05-21 11:04:52 Score: 9
Oh, this was a delightfully spooky story. I loved it. (And here I was
thinking that there were few corners of Middle-earth left for Werecat to
explore? Foolish me, indeed.) I particularly liked your descriptions of
Gandalf and especially Radagast. They seemed very real and earthy and
consistent with what we know about the Grey and the Brown ones, but you
didn't hit us over the head with who exactly they were. Personally, I'm not
convinced that Earnil could have cured Hithwen's son (sorry, I am forgetting
his name). It seems that the line of the true "king" passed from Anarion's
line when Ondoher died heirless, and the Gondorians chose someone with so
little of Anarion's blood when the northern kings had a much more direct
descendant. Just my two cents. And I think that, if he could heal Black
Breath, surely there would be other soldier's in Pelargir who needed
healing. It's not like the king at this point spent all his time in Minas
Tirith. I can see him travelling to Pelargir on a tour, and the woman
bringing her son to meet with him, almost like the story of the lame man who
Jesus healed after his disciples lowered him through the roof. Anyway, I
digress. This is a nice story, well thought out, and I really enjoyed it.

Title: Wish upon a <http://www.fanfiction.net/s/2088089/1/> star · Author:
Werecat
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=83
> · Races/Places: Villains: Orcs · ID: 194
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=10&form_story_filter=194>
Reviewer: Marta
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=16
> · 2005-05-21 11:42:46 Score: 3
You had me chuckling out loud at "Sometimes wishes do come true" at the very
end. Oh, well done! This is a hilarious parody, turning the typical
Mary-Sue-falls-into-Mordor parody on its head by its sharp characterization
of the Orc. Thanks for the read.

Title: By <http://www.scribeoz.com/fanfic/story.php?no=526> Light Beguiled
· Author: AfterEver
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=20
2> · Books/Time: The Silmarillion: First Age · ID: 445
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=10&form_story_filter=445>
Reviewer: Marta
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=16
> · 2005-05-24 00:25:52 Score: 7
I have to admit that, by the time I reached the end of the "Quenta
Silmarillion" I was skimming the text. Elves never were my forte, and I just
wasn't that interested in it. So I was sceptical to start this piece, but
after the first few screens I was certainly hooked. Your descriptions are
vivid, and your treatment of young Elrond and Elros was touching, not to
mention cute. We all know what happens to the havens at Sirion, so in many
ways reading this piece was like watching the movie "Titanic". I mean, we
all knew the ship was going to sink, but there were still some surprises
along the way. I especially loved the tension between Earendil and Elwing,
because it cut both ways; Earendil was uncomfortable with the silmaril, and
Elwing hated Earendil's need to journey the seas. Overall, it was a very
enjoyable tale that held my interest until the end -- which is saying
something, given I usually prefer shorter pieces like vignettes and
drabbles.

Title: Forgetting
<http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterview.asp?sid=880&cid=3364> War ·
Author: Karenator
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=10
> · Books/Time: The Lord of The Rings: Elves · ID: 1322
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=10&form_story_filter=1322>
Reviewer: sulriel
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=7>
· 2005-05-25 17:18:24 Score: 3
a bittersweet and poignant view of Legolas and the longing he feels. ...what
torment to have lived with that for so many years, what a blessing to have
the lifespan to have the years with his friends before he answers that call.
very well done, and enjoyable and thoughtful read.

Title: Price of Delay <http://www.scribeoz.com/fanfic/story.php?no=1675> ·
Author: viv
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=32
4> · Genres: Drama (includes Angst): Drabble · ID: 782
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=10&form_story_filter=782>
Reviewer: sulriel
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=7>
· 2005-05-25 22:26:27 Score: 2
Hi Viv, I'm glad to see this drabble here. I love Thingol, he's much to
underdone in this fandom, and this is one of my favorites.

Title: By All
<http://www.livejournal.com/users/talechallenge06/5053.html#cutid1> The
Signs · Author: Tialys
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=23
0> · Books/Time: Post-Ring War · ID: 757
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=10&form_story_filter=757>
Reviewer: sulriel
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=7>
· 2005-05-25 22:40:49 Score: 1
This is an engaging little tale, ...what fun to think of such a find!!! ,
wouldn't it be wonderful!

Title: Fëanor
<http://www.henneth-annun.net/challenge/chapter_view.cfm?NGID=51&STID=1238&S
POrdinal=1> Challenged · Author: stultiloquentia
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=15
4> · Genres: Romance: Poetry · ID: 45
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=10&form_story_filter=45>
Reviewer: sulriel
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=7>
· 2005-05-25 22:45:57 Score: 2
I don't often read poetry, but I epecially enjoy Feanor and couldn't resist
this one. You captured the mood and nuances beautifully, as well as the
characterization of the Noldor.

Title: Banners
<http://www.henneth-annun.net/challenge/chapter_view.cfm?NGID=97&STID=2223&S
POrdinal=5> in the Wind · Author: Starlight
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=19
5> · Books/Time: The Silmarillion: Second Age · ID: 519
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=10&form_story_filter=519>
Reviewer: sulriel
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=7>
· 2005-05-25 22:52:03 Score: 1
A well-done portayal of a proud but difficult time. You captured it well.

Title: One
<http://www.henneth-annun.net/challenge/chapter_view.cfm?STID=2359&SPOrdinal
=10&NGID=102> Dark Day in Lugbúrz · Author: Starlight
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=19
5> · Races/Places: Villains: Orcs · ID: 521
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=10&form_story_filter=521>
Reviewer: sulriel
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=7>
· 2005-05-25 22:55:51 Score: 1
we love Orcsies, my Precious, yes we do.

Title: Trust to Hope <http://www.scribeoz.com/fanfic/story.php?no=558> ·
Author: Novedhelion
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=49
4> · Genres: Romance · ID: 1294
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=10&form_story_filter=1294>
Reviewer: Aragorns
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=63
> Gal · 2005-05-26 14:50:06 Score: 9
I truly adored this story! I think that this story brought Eomer to life in
such an endearing way. He comes across as so serious in the movies. Plus
there is not near enough of him in the movies, so this story brings Eomer to
life so cleverly, and so "real". He becomes a man that you can't help but
love. This story shows that he is a great leader, a good guy and a very
lovable man! And Ani... she's wonderful! She's spunky and smart and won't
let people walk over her, including Eomer! Which I really like as a trait in
women. I applaude Eomer & Ani strongly, and if this were a 4th Lord of the
Rings movie, I would go see it without question.

The story is told in such a true way that I could totally picture all the
scenery as they traveled back & forth across Middle Earth. Even the
sub-characters were interesting. The author made me like or dislike them and
care about what happened to them. Cam & Amrothos could be another story on
their own! I really wish they were come to think of it!

And Fenwick... I hated that guy big time and wanted him gone right off the
bat. And thats good writing if an author makes you hate a character that
much!

So I would recommend this story to everyone who loves Lord of the Rings, or
just a good story, it gives us much more of Eomer who deserves every word
written about him.

Sincerely,
Aragornsgal2003


Title: Cursed Queen
<http://www.henneth-annun.net/stories/chapter.cfm?STID=1376> of Angmar ·
Author: khazar_khum
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=13
> · Races/Places: Villains: Nazgul · ID: 450
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=10&form_story_filter=450>
Reviewer: Raksha
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=17
8> the Demon · 2005-05-26 17:58:37 Score: 3
That Khazar-Khum has the chutzpah to write a romantic epic about the being
who inspires terror and revulsion in LOTR deserves much credit. That the
writer carries it off with style, actually making the reader empathize with
the heroine, and turns the Witch-King into a romantic hero, deserves even
more credit. Very daring and original story!

Title: Trust to Hope <http://www.scribeoz.com/fanfic/story.php?no=558> ·
Author: Novedhelion
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=49
4> · Genres: Romance · ID: 1294
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=10&form_story_filter=1294>
Reviewer: jbear83
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=51
3> · 2005-05-27 03:26:50 Score: 10
Ahh! Thank You!

That was an absolutely fabulous story. I was hooked from the start. Both the
story and the wonderfully excellent way it was written really appealed to
me.

I have only seen this good writing in maybe 3 or 4 other un-published
authors. Ever thought of writing a book?

This story has kept me up many a night reading ’til 3-4 in the morning, just
because I could not turn away from the screen, wanting to know more about
what would happen. And it has made me become violent against my books, when
they got punched in frustration and anger over Fenwick's actions, (I’ve
learned my lesson from having had to buy a new keyboard after it was hit
into oblivion in frustration before, pocket books are softer.)

The absolutely excellent writing has me floored, I could never write this
good. I just sit here and hope that you get the wonderful idea to write a
novel or something and have it published, because I would definitely buy it.
I have at the moment maybe 12 books lying in a pile, waiting to be read, but
I let them wait until I’ve finished this story because it held me in such a
strong grip reading it. I could really see everything in front of me as I
read, and it’s the way you describe things that really put the reader there
in the story.

I am not a very emotional person, but this story has brought out so many in
me, mirth, sadness, anger, frustration, happiness, relief. In the end just
after Fenwick's fall, I felt this huge need to cry out of relief (could have
been that I was listening to Gregorian's version of the Sound Of Silence, or
the late hour, it’s 2 am as I write this), but probably a combination of all
three. Not many stories do that to me.

You and your beta work very well together, and I hope that the two of you
will continue with that, too give us readers these wonderful and
well-written stories.

I will now continue on reading the sequel, my pile of books will just have
to wait.

I hope you get time and inspiration to continue writing that one so that I
will not have to wonder or go crazy from waiting.

Cheers, and thank you once again,

Jenny

Title: The <http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterview.asp?sid=808&cid=7657>
Prince of Golden Flowers · Author: Avon
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=15
> · Genres: Drama (includes Angst): Drabble · ID: 18
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=10&form_story_filter=18>
Reviewer: Dwimordene
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=8>
· 2005-05-27 22:59:31 Score: 4
There is something wonderfully simple about this drabble: a narrative
quality that at once is suitably solemn for Glorfindel and yet perfectly
suited a to a child's understanding. One senses the rise of legend, here, in
this tale, told to a nameless child who participates, as it were, in the
history of Gondolin through the simple act of linking flowers and memory
together.

Title: 'Peering
<http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterview.asp?sid=808&cid=7811> in the water
as the dark eve fell, I caught him, Gollum.' · Author: Avon
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=15
> · Books/Time: The Lord of The Rings: Drabble · ID: 19
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=10&form_story_filter=19>
Reviewer: Dwimordene
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=8>
· 2005-05-27 23:09:30 Score: 6
Avon makes great use of a line from the books as her title, allowing the
rest of the drabble to stand as an elaboration of it. Gollum's schizophrenic
nature infects his captor, who finds himself caught in a dizzying
relationship with his prisoner. Who is really driving whom? Aragorn ought to
be the dominant end of this relationship, yet he isn't, seeing himself as
both captor and prisoner. There's no point of balance between them, and
Aragorn finds himself unable to escape Gollum, who invades every sense, and
unlocks a rather indeterminate fear. It's clearly connected to the Ring, but
at the same time, what precisely is it about the Ring, as it manifests in
Gollum, that Aragorn fears? It's unclear, and I think it's the more
effective for that openness. Well done!

Title: New
<http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterview.asp?sid=3484&cid=13198> Home ·
Author: Tanaqui
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=40
> · Books/Time: Post-Ring War: Ithilien Drabble · ID: 20
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=10&form_story_filter=20>
Reviewer: Dwimordene
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=8>
· 2005-05-27 23:16:13 Score: 6
This is a lovely, sunny drabble about Beregond and Bergil, as they rebuild
their lives in Ithilien. We don't get any chances to see these two interact
with each other, and so have to infer quite a lot. But this seems to me very
plausible. Beregond's anxiety over whether his son, who has endured the
horrors of war and responsibilities beyond his years, will be happy in their
new home, is very touching. He doesn't want for Bergil to have to continue
to soldier on, as it were, but hopes that he'll have a chance to be a boy
for awhile. Bergil is delightfully portrayed, and in the end, Beregond's
hopes are realized, as Bergil is quickly distracted from the chaos of
displacement by the promise of finding a new bird's nest.

Title: The <http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterview.asp?sid=1887&cid=8772>
White City · Author: Forodwaith
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=50
> · Genres: Drama (includes Angst): Gondor Drabble · ID: 21
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=10&form_story_filter=21>
Reviewer: Dwimordene
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=8>
· 2005-05-27 23:22:13 Score: 4
For those of us who've wondered what would persuade a father to let his son
stay during what seems likely to be the last stand of Minas Tirith, this
drabble suggests an answer. We see here the absent mother playing a vital
role in that decision: she is the ground of Bergil's love for Minas Tirith
and also the ground of one aspect of the father-son relationship that spawns
a rather unexpected consequence. There's irony aplenty here, as the dead
rule the living, who may soon join them.

Title: In <http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterview.asp?sid=3477&cid=13136>
the Hands of the King · Author: Gwynnyd
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=18
6> · Genres: Drama (includes Angst): Gondor Drabble · ID: 22
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=10&form_story_filter=22>
Reviewer: Dwimordene
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=8>
· 2005-05-27 23:28:29 Score: 5
Another good missing moment in the relationship of Beregond and Bergil: how
did Bergil receive the news that his father had committed treason during the
Siege of Minas Tirith? One imagines it would be quite the blow for a boy who
seems to have a healthy boyish case of hero worship for his father, not to
mention quite terrifying once the possibility sank in that Beregond might
even be killed for his actions. We see the limits of justice here, and the
drabble appropriately ends with the hope that mercy will prevail.


[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]

Msg# 5094

Reviews Final as of 8/17/2005 part 10 Posted by Ainaechoiriel August 17, 2005 - 23:12:23 Topic ID# 5094
Title: While the Ring
<http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterlistview.asp?SID=449> Went South... ·
Author: Thundera
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=86
> Tiger · Books/Time: Gap-Filler · ID: 33
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=11&form_story_filter=33>
Reviewer: Dwimordene
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=8>
· 2005-05-27 23:32:17 Score: 10
This was the very first fanfic that I read that was absolutely compelling
both in the quality of writing but also in scope. It took gap-filling to new
heights and responded to a lack I'd been feeling, fanfictionally: here was a
story whose author was ambitious enough to take the characters and develop
them over time, rather than stay with a one-shot vignette. This is not to
say that shorter fics aren't also compelling, but most of what I had read at
that point were short fics or less than compelling novellas. Thundera Tiger
took a two week gap that would be critical for the development of the
internal relationships among the Fellowship and filled it in the style to
which we've become accustomed, which is to say very well indeed. Despite the
episodic nature of the story, it holds together in the end as a coherent
whole, and every character in the Fellowship is given his time under the
microscope. This story made the best use I'd seen anyone make of Legolas at
that point; it was practically the *only* use I'd seen made of Gimli that
really tried to get down into the foundations of his perspective as a Dwarf
who has "issues" with Elves, to put it mildly. Thunder made something of the
rivalry of Elves and Dwarves, and if I do think it might've gone over the
top a bit, nevertheless, it was a rousing good tale and I wouldn't have
missed any of it. I think this story really established Thundera as a good
ensemble writer, to borrow from TV terminology. She's an author who thrives
when she's got a fully populated world to play in, where minor characters
can shine alongside the major ones, and the major characters are still given
in depth treatment, and that shows in the depiction of the Fellowship. She
also displays her talent in writing more than just good action (although the
warg hunt was great), more than good drama (although the politicking and
personality clashes within the Fellowship are intense), but also great humor
(I keep coming back to the end of chapter four as particularly amusing). If
you're looking for some good action-adventure to read on a rainy day, clear
a few hours and read "While the Ring Went South".

Title: The
<http://www.tolkienfanfiction.com/Story_Read_Chapter.php?CHid=196> Flowers
of the Forest · Author: Altariel
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=18
1> · Books/Time: The Lord of The Rings: Gondor · ID: 2
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=11&form_story_filter=2>
Reviewer: Dwimordene
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=8>
· 2005-05-27 23:39:08 Score: 9
Given the jingoistic atmosphere in certain parts of the world, this fic is
timely. The war to end all wars must inevitably disappoint its followers, as
it is an unrealizable concept. Taking a poem from World War I and using it
to frame the central point, we once again find Faramir being put to good use
in this reflection on the nature of war and its ideology that calls for one
last sacrifice every time. The juxtaposition of the quiet and peace of the
farmlands that have been created, and the memory of the forest of Ithilien
that had so long been the site of war serve as a powerful reminder of the
responsibility of those who send others to war: to uphold the values of
peace and to tend it at home. At the same time, the paradox is clear: Gondor
had fought its great war—its last war in order that there be a future at
all. And yet that future breeds a need or a want for more wars; and so
there's always a need to believe that ideals are upheld, that the next war
is truly necessary, otherwise, the flowers of the forest—simbelmyne, for
memory of those who died for the hope of a peaceful future—would be
unbearable, as would the thought of all the sons who will die this time for
the sins of their parents.

Title: The King's
<http://www.henneth-annun.net/stories/chapter.cfm?STID=3917> Justice ·
Author: maranya14
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=12
0> · Genres: Drama (includes Angst): War of the Ring · ID: 4
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=11&form_story_filter=4>
Reviewer: Dwimordene
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=8>
· 2005-05-27 23:41:21 Score: 8
Those who like their Tolkien fanfic to have that slightly formal flavor
reminiscent of Tolkien's work will probably enjoy the style in which this
fic is written. But beyond that, as a gapfiller centered around the question
of what justice demands when a (soon to be) prince's life is saved through
the commission of a capital crime twice, maybe thrice, over, this is a good
reflection on the complex considerations that go into assessments of worth.
How does one measure what a life is worth, as against other lives,
especially in the chaos of war and a steward gone mad? Is there room for
personal consideration, and if so, where? Such questions, I think, animate
this fic, from Faramir's concern to understand what has been done not just
in his name, but for the sake of his life, to Beregond's willingness to
accept whatever judgment comes down to him (good Platonist that he is, which
is guaranteed to make me swoon), to Aragorn's contrasting of the need for
law with the need to recognize the personal dimension that should give law
its life and meaning. Nicely done!

Title: Requiem for
<http://www.henneth-annun.net/stories/chapter.cfm?STID=3859> Boromir ·
Author: maranya14
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=12
0> · Books/Time: Post-Ring War · ID: 6
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=11&form_story_filter=6>
Reviewer: Dwimordene
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=8>
· 2005-05-27 23:42:14 Score: 9
This is an excellent rounding out of the tale of the Fellowship, and a
particularly fitting end for Boromir's story. Maya_ar situates the hobbits'
description of Boromir's last battle, and Aragorn, Legolas and Gimli's
recounting of their funerary efforts with the lost (or seemingly lost)
legends of Middle-earth: Goldberry and Tom Bombadil, the Ents of Fangorn,
the *mearas* that alone of all horses understand their masters' speech, and
even Meduseld gets its mythic association with the legendary halls that the
hobbits remember in the stories handed down in the Shire. This puts Boromir
in an interesting position: he, too, by the situating of his story, is a
legend, someone now gone into the past. And yet since all these legends have
been shown to have their life still, Boromir, too, it is hinted at
throughout, has not wholly gone from his loved ones. By Faramir's completion
of the funerary songs (he gives the East Wind its voice), by his giving his
brother in addition a wholly new verse, we see Boromir's story transfigured
for those who loved him. The monument that Legolas and Gimli create for him
in the story's 'postscript' ending puts him firmly on the side of the vital
legends, the ones that remain with a people and continue to give meaning to
other lives far beyond the deaths of the original figures.

Title: How Legolas
<http://www.henneth-annun.net/stories/chapter.cfm?STID=394> Proved His
Bowmanship · Author: Chathol-linn
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=23
> · Genres: Adventure · ID: 8
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=11&form_story_filter=8>
Reviewer: Dwimordene
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=8>
· 2005-05-27 23:45:11 Score: 3
I remember reading this on a Tolkien fic e-mail list way back when there
were maybe twenty pages of LOTR fanfiction at FFN. The tone is very
well-suited to the tale and reminiscent of "The Hobbit" to me. We see the
makings of Middle-earth's most infamous archer (sorry, Beleg!), his
formation, drive, and dedication that pay off handsomely in the end.

Title: A Light Beyond
<http://www.henneth-annun.net/stories/chapter.cfm?STID=1520> the Darkness ·
Author: Alawa
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=10
3> · Genres: Romance: Poetry · ID: 10
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=11&form_story_filter=10>
Reviewer: Dwimordene
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=8>
· 2005-05-27 23:48:13 Score: 7
These two poems seem very apt to the characters they speak of. Gilraen's
villanelle has that certain suggestive mischief to it, appropriate to a
young woman in love, that says the words fall short even as they illuminate
much about her relationship with her husband. The repeated lines are
indispensable both in form and also in moving the content forward, which I
find admirable. Arathorn's sonnet, coming from a very different,
worldly-wise perspective, opens up even as he does in loving Gilraen—we can
see in the progression the ressurection of wonder and delight, and the need
and desire to speak of these things that has been too long suppressed.
Fortunately, speech isn't everything, and the poem in a sense deconstructs
itself—it's only a poem, and the important thing lies elsewhere, in the
feeling that animates it.

Title: Watching
<http://www.henneth-annun.net/stories/chapter.cfm?STID=1677> Thoughts ·
Author: Alawa
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=10
3> · Genres: Romance: Poetry · ID: 11
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=11&form_story_filter=11>
Reviewer: Dwimordene
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=8>
· 2005-05-27 23:50:33 Score: 7
Another set of poems that admirably suit the characters whose poems they
are. This time, it's Aragorn who has the villanelle, and as hope and
determination tilt against despair and resignation, the spareness of the
form becomes the vehicle for the expression of the stripped-down dignity of
a Ranger. No flights of fancy, nor need of embellishment, here, and once
again, the repeating lines both fit the form and advance the poem's content.
Arwen's poem, by contrast, is filled with long sentences and thoughts that
trail through several lines. She has the time to let a fuller and more
detailed working out of her feelings and hopes emerge, and the poem reflects
this. But at the end of each stanza, she returns to the choice she's made
that puts a stop, as it were, to those meandering reflections, or rather,
completes them with a brevity appropriate to the mortal timeframe she's
about to step into.

Title: Bearer of Bad
<http://www.henneth-annun.net/stories/chapter.cfm?STID=356> Tidings ·
Author: LOTR_lover
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=18
4> · Books/Time: Post-Ring War: Aman · ID: 12
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=11&form_story_filter=12>
Reviewer: Dwimordene
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=8>
· 2005-05-27 23:51:41 Score: 6
This is a wonderful little one-shot ficlet of Elrond's arrival at Tol
Eressëa, and I think one of the first fics that I read that really brought
him to life for me, in all his turmoil and joy. One has a sense of how long
Elrond has labored, and yet at the same time, he is in a very mortal
position—caught between the certain grief of his parting with Celebrian and
the news he must bear to her of Arwen's choice and the uncertainty of hope
and a chance to be healed himself. He is very human in his worries and
irritation and fears, and yet at the very end, the reversal is perfectly
executed as the fic hits its high point in the last line, as Elrond spies a
familiar figure at the docks: "It was Celebrían, and she was laughing, and
she was beautiful. And this was the first day of his new life." Well done!

Title: Greenery <http://www.henneth-annun.net/stories/chapter.cfm?STID=1945>
· Author: Forodwaith
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=50
> · Books/Time: Post-Ring War: Gondor · ID: 14
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=11&form_story_filter=14>
Reviewer: Dwimordene
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=8>
· 2005-05-27 23:55:10 Score: 8
Forodwaith is on record as a champion of Arwen who craves fanfics in which
we see the character acting apart from her significant male relations.
"Greenery" clearly answers to that desire. Here, we see Arwen through the
eyes of an original character apprentice healer, and get a sense of the
Queen of Gondor's interest in and talent for the healing arts. But
primarily, we see Arwen in this fic as a consummately skilled teacher, whose
easy way with others serves as a counterpoint to her age and the remoteness
of Elves. The wisdom of the Elves, however, is starkly evident as Arwen goes
about encouraging and enlightening the young apprentice in some of the ways
of her chosen profession. Speaking of Elves, I must simply note the spots of
dirt on Arwen's dress and the smear of mud on her cheek: dirt does not
discriminate among Races, thankyouverymuchforodwaith. In all, a delightful
vignette, even if Ioreth, alas, comes in for just as much, if not more,
irritation from the Queen as from the King.

Title: Thread of
<http://www.henneth-annun.net/stories/chapter.cfm?STID=1272> Fate · Author:
Forodwaith
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=50
> · Genres: Romance: Rivendell · ID: 15
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=11&form_story_filter=15>
Reviewer: Dwimordene
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=8>
· 2005-05-27 23:56:11 Score: 7
Yet another stellar effort by Forodwaith to give Arwen some justice. Whereas
"Greenery" focuses on Arwen in her role as teacher, herbalist, and healer,
here we see Arwen as artisan. The story of Arwen's weaving of the standard
for Aragorn is reduced to a few lines in the Appendix, and a mention on the
sly in "Return of the King"; as a symbol of Arwen's hope and her choice, it
is an obvious and fruitful place to write Arwen, and Forodwaith does it very
well. Here, we can see the effort and anxiety, the ninety-nine percent of
perspiration that gives birth to any work of art or science. It's a labor of
love, but not one free of its own turmoil, since Arwen is not just weaving a
banner, but is literally weaving her own path in life, unbinding herself
from one family and people in the very knitting of fabric that will bind her
to another people, all of them symbolically bound together under one banner
against the darkness. Well done!

Title: Boromir's
<http://www.henneth-annun.net/stories/chapter.cfm?STID=1405> Gift · Author:
SueB
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=39
2> · Genres: Movie-verse · ID: 813
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=11&form_story_filter=813>
Reviewer: Dwimordene
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=8>
· 2005-05-28 00:03:12 Score: 10
Boromir fans will not want to miss this story, and I hope many have already
enjoyed it as much as I have. Peter Jackon's Boromir is certainly a more
sympathetic character than the bookverse one, or at least, less ambiguous,
less divided between testimonies and appendices that need to be somehow
connected up with each other. Nevertheless, he's a complex individual who,
in the end, is torn apart by his very strength. SueB takes movie!Boromir and
reintegrates him beyond what even Boromir's last scene accomplishes in the
film. Here we have a reconciliation not simply of self with self and Boromir
with his companions in the Fellowship, but with, of all people, Galadriel.
As in the book, she is the revealer of truth, which is not always welcome,
but here she puts truth in the service of Boromir's peace of mind and
healing, right there at the end when it matters most. And it's not
unfitting: who else but the Penitent Queen would know how desperately the
Penitent Warrior desires to know the peace of redemption, of knowing one has
passed the trial by ordeal and that all has not been in vain? And who better
to grant him that mercy? Movieverse fics don't usually "do it" for me, but
this one portrays these two characters in ways that illuminate their
essential core that was translated from books to films. SueB thereby opens
up both incarnations of these characters with a laudable efficiency. Well,
well done!

Title: Leavetaking
<http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterview.asp?sid=1887&cid=8127> · Author:
Forodwaith
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=50
> · Genres: Drama (includes Angst): Drabble · ID: 16
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=11&form_story_filter=16>
Reviewer: Dwimordene
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=8>
· 2005-05-28 00:24:39 Score: 4
A succinct statement of the strained situation that Gilraen and Elrond
endure: each one a parent, each seeing in the safe return of the other's
child the death of his or her own. The very thing that should draw them
together—their parenthood—is what ultimately drives them apart. It's a
poignant evocation of one of those fateful scenarios that are no one's
fault, but which cannot but be heartbreaking.

Title: Links
<http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterview.asp?sid=1887&cid=8126> · Author:
Forodwaith
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=50
> · Books/Time: Post-Ring War: General Drabble · ID: 23
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=11&form_story_filter=23>
Reviewer: Dwimordene
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=8>
· 2005-05-28 00:54:09 Score: 7
This cuts right to the heart of Frodo's and Boromir's relationship: they
shared the same burden, the Ring's temptation, and in fact both fell to it
as others did not. That gives them a measure of retrospective commonality
often overlooked due to their otherwise great differences. In a way, it
turns out that it was Boromir who knew Frodo best (though he couldn't have
realized it at the time) for knowing what it was to be absolutely violated
in his very will—to be absolutely alienated from himself, such that the will
of another was made his own. To quote a favorite philosopher, the horror of
human existence is that "One can do anything with a man", even the
impossible. It's one of those logical contradictions that can only be lived
and endured. It is wholly fitting, then, that Frodo should return to honor
Boromir's memory, to share a token of their mutual suffering, and to wish
him peace.

Title: Interment
<http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterview.asp?sid=1887&cid=13257> · Author:
Forodwaith
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=50
> · Races/Places: Gondor: Pre-Quest Drabbles · ID: 379
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=11&form_story_filter=379>
Reviewer: EdorasLass
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=29
9> · 2005-05-28 16:51:48 Score: 2
I love that although Denethor thinks it's foolish, he has Finduilas buried
in the place she most wished to be. I also like the glimpse of him facing
his own mortality, and wondering how it will affect his sons.

Title: Sand-castles
<http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterview.asp?sid=3484&cid=13220> when the
tide is flowing · Author: Tanaqui
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=40
> · Races/Places: Gondor: Pre-Quest Drabbles · ID: 549
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=11&form_story_filter=549>
Reviewer: EdorasLass
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=29
9> · 2005-05-28 17:04:04 Score: 2
I love the differences in the sand castles reflecting the differences in
Boromir and Faramir's personalities. A bit of creepy foreshadowing as well.
Very nicely symbolic.

Title: Herbs
<http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterview.asp?sid=3016&cid=13624> of Healing
· Author: Branwyn
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=24
0> · Races/Places: Gondor: Drabble · ID: 656
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=11&form_story_filter=656>
Reviewer: EdorasLass
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=29
9> · 2005-05-28 17:10:56 Score: 2
This is a lovely look at Faramir from a different POV. I like the very
realistic notion that sometimes, drugs are not the answer to healing.

Title: Echo <http://www.scribeoz.com/fanfic/story.php?no=1002> · Author:
Nancy
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=10
5> Brooke · Races/Places: Gondor: Drabble · ID: 684
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=11&form_story_filter=684>
Reviewer: EdorasLass
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=29
9> · 2005-05-28 17:13:44 Score: 1
Oh my, you just hurt my heart.*wibble*
I hope Pip took something little no-one would miss.

Title: Call on the Wind <http://www.freewebs.com/aure/callonthewind.htm> ·
Author: Marta
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=16
> · Races/Places: Rohan: Drabble · ID: 935
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=11&form_story_filter=935>
Reviewer: EdorasLass
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=29
9> · 2005-05-28 17:18:43 Score: 2
I haven't seen anything before that reflects on anyone in Rohan hearing
Boromir's horn! Very nice, and rather bittersweet also, in that Eomer takes
the sound as a sign of hope. *sniff*

Title: Mantle of
<http://www.henneth-annun.net/stories/chapter.cfm?STID=4914> Stars · Author:
marastar
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=42
9> · Genres: Romance: Vignette · ID: 987
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=11&form_story_filter=987>
Reviewer: EdorasLass
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=29
9> · 2005-05-28 17:32:44 Score: 4
I love that Faramir knows that Eowyn's coldness is a protection, rather than
truth, and his opinion that her darkness only enhances her internal beauty.
I always thought it was rather daring of him to give her Finduilas' cloak
before he knew how she felt toward him, and I very much like the often
overly-intellectual Faramir realizing that reason is not going to help him
in this situation - he's going to have to trust to his heart.

Title: Translation
<http://www.henneth-annun.net/stories/chapter.cfm?STID=4915> · Author:
marastar
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=42
9> · Races/Places: Rohan: Romance · ID: 988
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=11&form_story_filter=988>
Reviewer: EdorasLass
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=29
9> · 2005-05-28 17:38:51 Score: 4
I love the parallel between the scars on Eowyn's arm, and the lettering in
the book. Describing runes as "violent" is, IMO, very accurate, and would
probably appear doubly so to someone familiar with the smoother flow of
Elvish writing.
And how very Faramir to compare the woman he loves to a language. *sigh* For
a book-girl, very very romantic.
And you show the depth of his feelings for her very well, without being
maudlin or sticky-sweet, which is so hard to pull off.

Title: The King's
<http://www.henneth-annun.net/stories/chapter.cfm?STID=3917> Justice ·
Author: maranya14
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=12
0> · Genres: Drama (includes Angst): War of the Ring · ID: 4
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=11&form_story_filter=4>
Reviewer: queeniejosephine
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=52
7> · 2005-06-01 17:03:17 Score: 4
This is a beautiful and well written story,which gave me a great deal of
pleasure to read.I loved the way in which it filled in gaps that Tolkien
left and gave an insight into Faramir's relationship with Aragorn and how
King and Steward are growing in their mutual love and respect towards each
other. I liked the way in which Aragorn privately tells Faramir he wishes
him to remain Steward and gives him the chance to refuse.

Title: Here
<http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterview.asp?sid=3349&cid=12757> sits, in
secret, blest Theology · Author: annmarwalk
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=17
7> · Races/Places: Gondor · ID: 388
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=11&form_story_filter=388>
Reviewer: Raksha
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=17
8> the Demon · 2005-06-01 18:32:46 Score: 3
A lovely treatment of a subject we don't see drabbled, or treated, often in
LOTR fanfiction - fishing, and some fascinating implications of philosophy
which do fit in with what we know of Faramir's character and Ranger
lifestyle. Subtle and elegant and credible.

Title: Alterations
<http://www.henneth-annun.net/stories/chapter.cfm?STID=613> · Author:
Eledhwen
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=26
0> · Books/Time: Post-Ring War: Gondor · ID: 260
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=11&form_story_filter=260>
Reviewer: Raksha
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=17
8> the Demon · 2005-06-01 18:52:41 Score: 5
A wonderful look at the White City, and other realms by implication, making
the transition from war to peace, from the Third Age to the Fourth. Aragorn
is changing from war-leader to King, and taking contentment while
shouldering new burdens. (wonderful chapter with him talking to Faramir
about Boromir and Finduilas) Some beautiful moments here; such as the
bearers of the Three Rings sitting near the new White Tree, talking of what
they will leave behind when they return to Valinor.

Title: Mourning
<http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterview.asp?sid=3140&cid=12155> Cloak ·
Author: annmarwalk
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=17
7> · Genres: Drama (includes Angst): Gondor · ID: 394
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=11&form_story_filter=394>
Reviewer: Raksha
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=17
8> the Demon · 2005-06-01 19:10:53 Score: 3
Outstanding short piece evoking the joy that Finduilas brought into
Denethor's life with the use of color; and his absolute misery at her loss,
expressed by his rejection of the colors she favored in favor of simple
black. His life darkened in every way; and that's what the piece expresses.
Very nice work from an accomplished drabbler!

Title: The <http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterview.asp?sid=2524&cid=9921>
Room of Tears · Author: Elendiari22
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=37
3> · Books/Time: The Lord of The Rings: Gondor · ID: 759
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=11&form_story_filter=759>
Reviewer: Nancy
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=10
5> Brooke · 2005-06-01 19:59:54 Score: 1
This was a nicely written story, though overly sentimental and borrowed too
heavily from "Possession."


[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]

Msg# 5095

Reviews Final as of 8/17/2005 part 11 Posted by Ainaechoiriel August 17, 2005 - 23:12:49 Topic ID# 5095
Title: Grey and Pale
<http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterlistview.asp?SID=1252> Gold · Author:
Kielle
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=19
7> · Genres: Drama (includes Angst) · ID: 54
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=12&form_story_filter=54>
Reviewer: Nancy
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=10
5> Brooke · 2005-06-01 20:43:30 Score: 4
I thought this was a wonderful story. You did a remarkable job capturing
both the textures of daily life beyond Edoras, on the front, as it were, and
your characters through simple actions and dialog that read clear and true.
It is rare to find a story in with four main characters are each so well
drawn. I'm not familiar with most of your work, but I'm going to seek it
out, now.

Title: 110 <http://www.henneth-annun.net/stories/chapter.cfm?STID=4427> ·
Author: Aeneid
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=20
1> · Races/Places: Men · ID: 59
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=12&form_story_filter=59>
Reviewer: Nancy
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=10
5> Brooke · 2005-06-01 20:53:17 Score: 2
I think this 'experiment' certainly worked, and worked well well,
successfully communicated experience in thought and memory. Well done.

Title: Shire: <http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterlistview.asp?SID=1052>
Beginnings · Author: Lindelea
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=27
> · Genres: Adventure: Long Form · ID: 703
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=12&form_story_filter=703>
Reviewer: Inkling
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=28
3> · 2005-06-03 02:19:44 Score: 10
This wonderful, original story is difficult to categorize: part adventure
saga, part well-researched ME history, part folk/fairy tale, by turns
whimsical and grim. It’s full of the wonder and magic of storytelling that
deals with origins…which is why Lindelea’s allusion to Kipling’s “Just So”
stories in the prologue (the narrator addresses his listener as “Ah, best
beloved”) is so appropriate.

The origins, in this case, are the very early (though not the earliest) days
of the Fallohides, and the events leading to their migration westward. I
love these hobbits! Sharkey’s ruffians would have had a hard time pushing
THEM around! Brave, smart, selfless, generous, resourceful, pragmatic,
adaptable. No self-pity, resentment, vengefulness. Lin said she has received
complaints that the hobbits in this story are “unhobbity.” Now, granted,
these are Fallohides, and Fallohides in their pure, undiluted form at that,
so a pretty special breed. But to me, they are the very essence of
hobbit-kind…all the best qualities of hobbits, with the surface trappings of
Shire civilization stripped away. They do the right thing instinctively,
without thought of what’s in it for them, as when they help “Grandalf” or
the Elves. They have a nobility of spirit and a quiet dignity that are both
inspiring and humbling. You can see how centuries of easy living could turn
them into the fussy, complacent hobbits of the late Third Age, but you can
also detect in the modern hobbits the traces of these forebears: Tolkien's
"seed of courage hidden...in the heart of the fattest and most timid
hobbit.”

One of the high points of the story is when Glorfindel and Blackthorn visit
the king of Rhudaur. This powerful and disturbing chapter brings to mind the
atrocities of the Holocaust…another time when men refused to see the
humanity in other men though it was right before their eyes. Glorfindel’s
unveiling of his power was breathtaking…straight out of one of the great
fairy tales. The murk that is briefly dispelled and then regathers raised,
for me, the same question about the nature of evil that runs throughout
LOTR: whether it resides in the hearts of men, or comes from without…or
both.

Every now and then—not often—I come across a story that I think Tolkien
would have enjoyed. This is one of them.


Title: The Heirs of <http://www.freewebs.com/aure/heirsofisildurthe.htm>
Isildur · Author: Marta
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=16
> · Genres: Humor: Drabble · ID: 24
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=12&form_story_filter=24>
Reviewer: Dwimordene
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=8>
· 2005-06-03 22:25:50 Score: 4
This drabble captures a rather Elven moment of humor when it comes to
interactions with races of lesser longevity. There's just so much to keep
track of after a few millennia that it's only to be expected that once in
awhile, one might put the wrong name to the wrong face by about fifty years
or so. It gave a bit more flesh to Lindir's one line in FOTR, that to sheep,
other sheep no doubt looked different, or else to shepherds.

Title: Olorin
<http://www.tolkienfanfiction.com/Story_Read_Chapter.php?CHid=1127> I was in
my Youth In the West that is Forgotten · Author: Azalais
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=18
7> · Books/Time: The Lord of The Rings: Drabble · ID: 25
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=12&form_story_filter=25>
Reviewer: Dwimordene
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=8>
· 2005-06-03 22:26:39 Score: 4
There are so few Gandalf stories that get inside his head, but in one
hundred words, Azalais gives us a glimpse into the existence of a being
whose embodiment is a real alienation, for whom forgetting is not natural,
nor the aches and pains that even an immortal body inevitably comes with.
The juxtaposition of that brief glimmer of remembrance, and the immense
power that Gandalf's body is housing, with the indignities of age and
Pippin's evaluation of him is very nicely done.

Title: The
<http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterview.asp?sid=3594&cid=13632> Protocol
of Princes · Author: maranya14
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=12
0> · Genres: Humor: Drabble · ID: 26
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=12&form_story_filter=26>
Reviewer: Dwimordene
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=8>
· 2005-06-03 22:27:27 Score: 4
A humorous interlude between Faramir and Éomer is a bit of a rarity so far
as I can tell in fandom. This one is exquisite. There's a lovely, lazy
mischievousness about it that reeks of Rohan, but also suits Faramir, who
shows himself to have a definite wicked streak. There's a verbal agility in
this little exchange that's delightful on both sides—Fourth Age exuberance
and confidence shines through.

Title: Cunning <http://www.fanfiction.net/s/1361107/2/> Gold · Author:
Lyllyn
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=18
8> · Books/Time: The Silmarillion: Gondolin · ID: 28
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=12&form_story_filter=28>
Reviewer: Dwimordene
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=8>
· 2005-06-03 22:55:13 Score: 10
As with some other stories, I'm going to resort to some older comments I'd
made, since I still think they're accurate to my view of the story and were
fairly well thought out when they were written. This was a wonderfully
unique take on Glorfindel as a commander, and as a veteran. The
ridiculousness of his attire, coupled with his foreboding that there will be
no victory, that the little he can give—laughter and his life—will be taken
from him by the time the smoke clears, is a terribly clear-sighted
commentary on war. It also brings to mind a particularly apt passage in
Kierkegaard's 'Fear and Trembling' that describes the Knight of Infinite
Resignation:

" I am able by my own strength to renounce everything, and then to find
peace and repose in pain. I can stand everything—even though that horrible
demon, more dreadful than death, the king of terrors, even though madness
were to hold up before my eyes the motley of the fool, and I understand by
its look that it was I who must put it on, I still am able to save my soul,
if only it is more to me than my earthly happiness... Then [I] will calmly
put on the motley garb. He whose soul has not this romantic enthusiasm has
sold his soul, whether he got a kingdom for it or only a paltry piece of
silver."

Glorfindel puts on the garb of the fool for the sake of others. By his own
strength he can do this, and he must do this, and it is war that has brought
him to the point of playing the fool. This also reminds me, on a slightly
more sinister note, of Polonius's famous line: "Though this be madness, yet
there is method in it!" There's a certain personal darkness to Glorfindel
here, a grim understanding, that's at odds with his clothing—a sort of fury,
I think, that comes across that this is *it*, that's all he can do, and they
are still doomed. What redeems him is that 'romantic enthusiasm' that will
play the game out to the very end, and so he saves himself in a sense from
descending into real madness, where for no good reason, he will simply fight
and die in isolation—the meanest of all deaths. By his fingernails, he hangs
on to his relations with others, and in so doing is able to inject meaning
into what otherwise might be a very meaningless fight given the overwhelming
forces we know he will face. Sorry there's so little new material here,
Lyllyn, but it was a lovely story nonetheless.


Title: About Men <http://www.fanfiction.net/s/1596277/1/> · Author: Lyllyn
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=18
8> · Books/Time: The Lord of The Rings: The Shire · ID: 29
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=12&form_story_filter=29>
Reviewer: Dwimordene
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=8>
· 2005-06-03 23:12:49 Score: 10
This fic captures a certain hobbity sensibility, so that you feel as if you
are hearing a hobbit describe the Occupation. Robin Smallburrow was the only
sheriff we ever got to see who had a voice, and it comes through
magnificently here. Lyllyn covers the important bases in this vignette: the
slow changing of the environment; the difficulty of seeing, at first, that
something is wrong; the inevitable regrets that hindsight brings; and most
importantly to my mind, the ambiguity and complicity that occupation
inevitably bring that make vices of virtues, but which can't easily be
condemned. Robin's point of view, as one of the more obvious collaborators
with the ruffians' regime, is not tainted by the kind of realism that is
really merely cynicism in disguise; nor does he fear to offer his judgments
about what he saw and participated in.

In his very complicity, he's afforded insight and distance enough,
paradoxically, to really testify to the generosity and compassion that I
think Tolkien meant to be the sort of 'spiritual character' of his hobbits.
Robin recognizes that the most basic impulses, to care for one's children,
lead, in unjust circumstances, to individuals consciously doing what they
know, in their heart of hearts, will damage others. But although he does not
condemn those who took that route, neither is there a trace of self-serving
justification in his evaluation—it is this that gives his voice its gravity,
despite the lightness of word and tone that is wholly appropriate to hobbits
and which recalls Tolkien's description of Merry and Pippin as they walked
lost in Fangorn: to hear their voices, you would never guess they'd been in
terrible danger, endured a form of torture, and were even at that moment
facing an uncertain future. Given the current state of global affairs, this
fic is one that I find meaningful as a reminder that complicity and
suffering can breed something greater than themselves, and that it's
important to find it, because otherwise, there is no hope for real healing
rather than a false peace.


Title: Beyond This
<http://www.henneth-annun.net/stories/chapter.cfm?STID=43> World · Author:
Thundera
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=86
> Tiger · Books/Time: Post-Ring War: Final Partings · ID: 32
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=12&form_story_filter=32>
Reviewer: Dwimordene
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=8>
· 2005-06-03 23:39:42 Score: 10
I remember when I first read it, I had the hankies nearby and needed them,
which is pretty rare for me and hence it stands in my memory as *THE* Fic
That Made Me Cry. I think the thing that struck me most about this story is
that it deals straightforwardly with the debilitations of old age. We all
find it immensely satisfying to put our favorite characters through the
wringer to let their virtues and endurance shine through, but such
situations are artificial on more than one level. It isn't normal to be in a
situation where one might have to kill someone else to survive or to save
others; it isn't normal to expect to be in such situations. But unless one
is an Elf, old age and the slow impairment of the body and, to an extent,
the mind, are as normal as they are inevitable, but they can be very hard to
write about.

The virtue of this fic is that it doesn't flinch from this. There's no
heroism here—Gimli isn't enduring what he's enduring for the sake of some
greater good. It's simply his time, and he and Legolas have to deal with the
fact of his mortality. Thundera has given us a very wrenching tale of
letting go that doesn't end in a sort of dignified repose (Aragorn) or a
life cut short; Gimli is very simply dying, and his body is shutting down in
a variety of ways that alter the scope of one of Middle-earth's more
infamous friendships. That's hard to write, but done well, as it is here, it
is extremely satisfying.

But beyond that, Thundera uses Gimli's dying and death to put a choice
before Legolas. This isn't just a story about death and dying, it's about
family, and ties and loyalties that are stronger than blood. Legolas in the
end casts his lot beyond the world of the Elves, and in so doing, loses that
most elemental of elven traits: being rooted in self and Arda. He literally
becomes something other than he is in order to pursue his friendship with
Gimli to its uttermost end. Now *there's* a good story!


Title: For
<http://homepage.ntlworld.com/matthew.adams1/personal/isabeau_drabbles.htm#s
eason> Everything There Is A Season · Author: Isabeau
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=18
2> of Greenlea · Books/Time: Post-Ring War: General Drabble · ID: 31
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=12&form_story_filter=31>
Reviewer: Dwimordene
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=8>
· 2005-06-03 23:40:28 Score: 5
And another story of the Cygnets of Dol Amroth, which is best read, I think,
with "Just A Bit Of Chop" and could accurately be titled "Lothiriel gets her
own back". War time being over, other virtues than martial prowess and
courage in battle become more prominent. Lothiriel, having been consigned to
them by virtue of her sex, shows herself the more practiced in them than her
brothers. Being a soldier isn't nearly as hard as opening oneself
sufficiently to make a good marriage, or so the reaction of her brothers
says. A humorous little interlude, yet with its own edge to it.

Title: Just
<http://homepage.ntlworld.com/matthew.adams1/personal/isabeau_drabbles.htm#c
hop> A Bit Of Chop · Author: Isabeau
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=18
2> of Greenlea · Books/Time: Post-Ring War: General Drabble · ID: 30
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=12&form_story_filter=30>
Reviewer: Dwimordene
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=8>
· 2005-06-03 23:41:13 Score: 6
No matter how many times I read this, I laugh. I can't help it. The timing
among the conspirators is dead on, and once it comes out what's really going
on, you can't help but feel for poor Éomer even as you applaud his equally
well-timed trip to the railing. Amrothos, the third brother, also gets
points for his exquisite logic, which fails to move Éomer at all, unless
it's to seasickness. One gets the sense from these hundred words that Éomer
will have *earned* the right to pay court to Lothiriel, which is ironic.
Peacetime having its own measures of worth, being instrumental in the
salvation of not one, but two, besieged cities and little trip to the Black
Gate were apparently inadequate to prove his worth on that score. Well done,
Isabeau!

Title: Gathering the
<http://www.henneth-annun.net/stories/chapter.cfm?STID=3082> Pieces ·
Author: Tehta
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=18
5> · Races/Places: Elves: First Age · ID: 13
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=12&form_story_filter=13>
Reviewer: Dwimordene
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=8>
· 2005-06-03 23:47:11 Score: 10
Another instance in which I will borrow heavily from comments left in
another forum, and apologize profusely for the lack of originality. If I
were forced to pick the most compelling fanfic characterization of Maedhros,
it'd be a toss up between this Maedhros and Eärmirë's. Both nicely capture
the refraction that is Maedhros—when Elves break, look out, because it gets
frightening very quickly thereafter.

Tehta gives us an interesting portrait of Maedhros "in recovery". I use the
scare quotes because he is clearly suffering from what we'd call PTSD and
keeping healing, which would require a terrifying vulnerability, at arm's
length. However, being Maedhros, he's found a way to compensate for the fact
that mirror- and navel-gazing are endeavors fraught with peril, as is
allowing anyone else to see him clearly in his brokenness: all his energy
gets sublimated into a chessmaster persona, for whom life is a game only
because the possibility that it might be real is too devastating even to
consider. He becomes isolated, and his intense interactions with others are
in fact a disguise that cover over the fact that he's using those closest to
him in order not to have to deal with any real relationship.

This is not to say he might not have been manipulative before his capture
and torment, but the manner in which he calls his younger self foolish, that
he is glad to have lost parts of his soul and can't talk about that loss to
Maglor, who is closest to him—this all suggests that this chessmaster
persona is at the least an extreme modification of his earlier personality.
He's changed, whether others know it or not. At the same time, this fic
maintains the necessary balance between angstiness and a sort of devastated
calm: it shows the bleakness of Maedhros' life without allowing him to pity
himself in any obvious way. That's essential, I think, and it gives the
story something very unique, especially combined with the manner in which
Tehta writes it: third-person, short sentences that imitate the distance
that Maedhros feels from others and even from himself perhaps. As one who
enjoys it when the form fits the content, that trait just makes the whole
fic for me. He's in a sense not permitting feeling; he may, perhaps, have
lost the habit of necessity, in order to stay sane.

Survivorship is an unenviable position to be in, and it can permit of great
triumphs of recovery; it can also descend to appalling depths whence there
is no possibility of return. This story follows the latter path with
Maedhros; having seen even the beginning, the end of his story should come
as no surprise.

Title: Mary Mordor
<http://www.henneth-annun.net/stories/chapter.cfm?STID=411> Sue · Author:
Meg
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=18
3> Thornton · Genres: Alternate Universe · ID: 7
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=12&form_story_filter=7>
Reviewer: Dwimordene
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=8>
· 2005-06-03 23:50:17 Score: 10
One of the dangers of Mary Sue parodies is that they become just as annoying
and clichéd as the phenomenon they are trying to counter. Meg's story,
however, goes to the depths that other such stories dare not go: right to
the heart of the specific kinds of banality, frivolity, callousness, casual
brutality, and vulgarity that together form the underbelly of modernity.

And she does it in the first person, which puts the reader uncomfortably
close to the action—you can't help but identify, and yet you're repulsed and
horrified at the same time. It's an excellent demonstration of the
difference between the kind of violence and cruelty Tolkien portrays and the
kind that informs our own conceptions of violence: it's a frightening thing
when we learn that even Sauron is, in a sense, more innocent than we
ordinary, vanilla-flavored citizens are simply because we lack Sauron's
original greatness, to say nothing of the necessity under which he operates,
and are more free to indulge in imaginary violence, which, by definition, is
unrestrained because unreal.

At the same time, there's something rather dreadfully heroic about Mary
Mordor Sue: she's the lab rat who fights back and the unfettered violence of
her imagination gives her the gutter smarts to survive and achieve her end,
through stepping on anyone and everyone as if without remorse to achieve it.
Even madness can be a tool, giving this OFC a rather unexpected connection
to a certain Danish prince, although as with Hamlet, it's a brutal
methodology that consumes friend and foe and self alike. This is a very
unique and pointed fic, and not for the faint of heart for all that it's a
very short fic—just one scene in prison with Mary and her prisoner, whose
identity and status become horribly clear as the fic progresses. Give it a
try—after this, I think I feel safe in saying, "Take a bow, Mary, there's no
more to be said."

Title: Of Herbs and
<http://www.henneth-annun.net/stories/chapter.cfm?STID=4653> Stewed Rabbit ·
Author: Alawa
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=10
3> · Genres: Drama (includes Angst): Gapfiller · ID: 9
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=12&form_story_filter=9>
Reviewer: Dwimordene
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=8>
· 2005-06-03 23:51:56 Score: 10
With apologies to Alawa, I'm going to repeat much of what I've already said
about this story in a different forum. We begin this story with a
conversation between a Captain and a young Ranger one wet, soggy Yuletide's
eve, and this after a rather disastrous day in the field that has resulted
in some casualties. One automatically suspects that Aragorn might be the
captain.

But in the end, the situation is reversed in a move that serves to highlight
the real dynamic that drives this story: can one really act from hope or
keep hope alive at all if one always bows to necessity/expediency? What is
the meaning of tradition if it is not given practical expression? This is
the heart of the story—it's the battle of idealism versus realism, hope
versus necessity. It's about making meaning where you need it, because to go
without for the sake of sheer expediency is unbearable. As with Altariel's
"Flame of the West", this story forces us to recognize the importance of
practicing ritual, of making the absurd symbol embody an ideal and hope
worth dying for.

Aragorn, Hope embodied and so quintessentially idealist, is able to show
that the mindset of realism is only correct to the extent that custom and
all the things that make a people who they are and that motivate them to act
in a specifically human manner, are actually dead already. In which case,
the means have outlived their end—survival usurps the place of a way of life
that honors more than the simple fact of being not yet dead. Because he
holds to the original purpose of Rangering—the protection of humanly
necessary ties to other persons, past and present, and the need to redeem
the dead for the sake of present and future generations—Aragorn is able to
breathe life back into that purpose by reminding his captain that sacrifice
in itself is meaningless. Why continue to be a Ranger and suffer so much if
one is not willing to make a moral issue of honoring in practice the ties
they are trying to preserve? At some point, one has to decide what one is
living for and what one is, thereby, willing to die for.

That's the alchemy that transforms foolish risks into meaningful ones that
cannot be easily brushed aside, because Aragorn isn't holding out for a
blind adherence to tradition, either, which would deserve to lose to the
necessity of a given moment. Insofar as the meaning of those traditions is
honored as living in the Rangers who take a moment to light a candle, at
peril of their lives, they're upsetting the whole order of war and dominion
that Sauron et al would reduce them to. This is the very logic that I think
the whole of LOTR is based upon. Beautiful writing, wonderful insight,
without a wasted word. Bravo!

Title: Flame of
<http://www.tolkienfanfiction.com/Story_Read_Chapter.php?CHid=24> the West ·
Author: Altariel
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=18
1> · Races/Places: Gondor: Vignette · ID: 1
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=12&form_story_filter=1>
Reviewer: Dwimordene
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=8>
· 2005-06-04 00:13:40 Score: 10
This would be Altariel doing what she does best: creating tightly paced,
thematically rich drama centering on Faramir. Here we find only the second
conscious meeting of Faramir and Aragorn, in the Houses of Healing, just
before Aragorn leaves for the Black Gate. But it's more than that—this story
is a reflection on loyalty and honor, and the need, I think, for ritual, for
giving a voice and a form to what might "go without saying" otherwise, but
which would be the poorer for being merely understood.

It takes a certain talent to write ritual meaningfully for an audience that
can be assumed to be thoroughly cynical when it comes to the ceremonies of
power, but the key is that we can see here that this oath-taking of steward
to king is personal between Faramir and Aragorn. It's something that Faramir
needs to do, not simply for his peace of mind but as an act of thanksgiving
and out of love, I think, and it is equally something that Aragorn needs to
do for Faramir as the man who would be—and who for this one man already
is—king.

That Altariel ties that interaction back into the profoundly positive
experience of Faramir's oath-taking with his father just makes it better by
affirming that relationship between Denethor and Faramir as important and
vital, no matter what else might have happened between the two of them. The
two oath-takings therefore shed light on each other by contextualizing each
other, and it's impossible to say whether one redeems the other or whether
that earlier pledge is what furnishes the meaning of the later one, by
setting the later in a relationship of continuity. Beautifully written as
always and something every Faramir (and Aragorn) fan can enjoy.

Title: Dandelion
<http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterview.asp?sid=1694&cid=7027> Clocks ·
Author: Alawa
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=10
3> · Books/Time: Post-Ring War: Gondor Drabble · ID: 17
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=12&form_story_filter=17>
Reviewer: Dwimordene
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=8>
· 2005-06-04 00:16:07 Score: 10
I had to actually think a lot about this drabble. There's so much to find in
it and I quite enjoyed the hunt. Prima facie, it is a story of mourning—that
last line is fairly suggestive that the occasion for recollection is a
funeral, most likely Éowyn's (although I like the idea that it could also be
Aragorn's). But to stop at that would be to cheat oneself of one hundred
quite marvelous words that do far more than tell us a funerary tale. It's
all about time, which we might expect in a drabble where an Elven character
and a mortal are portrayed together.

We begin in the past, with the recollection of an endless moment. Thus we
start, essentially, in two very elvish modes of temporality: the past and
present, with their connotations of the static, the inert, the
by-default-restful. The seemingly timeless present tense of Elvish existence
is captured as a present oriented towards preserving the past. This
backwards-glancing aspect of the present is evoked both by the fact that
this is a memory and by Éowyn's telling of the collected folklore of her
people—their past, endlessly re-presented for its own sake.

Yet even here, in this first, most elven, paragraph, there are hints of the
intrusion of a different, distinctly un-elven temporality: there are
children present; love, romantically associated with the eternal, is tested
in the transformation of flowers to puff-balls; and the hours are told, yet
we know this is a telling that cannot honor the past but depends rather on
the incessant advance towards the future. This futural dimension is most
evident in the middle paragraph, in Arwen's recollection of the dandelion
seeds that "reached beyond the rim waiting for the wind to carry [them]
away". The seeds reach beyond themselves—beyond the source of their
generation and their 'ground'—towards something other that will catch them
and transport them away to another place, destiny unknown, even as time
pulls one up by the roots and drags one beyond oneself into the openness of
the indefinite future.

All of this, however, takes place in Arwen's memory, and Alawa imparts an
immense sense of distance from that past, which is evoked by a hollow
dandelion stem falling to the earth—presumably onto a grave site given the
veil Arwen wears. But at the same time, that veil has symbolic work to do:
it is not there simply for decorative purposes. Rather, it stands in for the
ambiguity of the present and suggests the meaning of this scene: by virtue
of its position in the drabble as well as its being a physical barrier, it
separates Arwen from what has passed even as it separates her from the
inspiration to memory (the hollow stem).

Of a sudden, at the last possible moment, Arwen comes unmoored. Is it the
stem that falls away, or is it Arwen who is losing what has connected her to
Middle-earth? One might as easily say that it's her own ground that's
falling away, that she assumes the seed's eye view, and that she stands now
on the cusp of that journey towards what is unknown, towards really leaving
her elvishness—rootedness in the past and the eternal present—behind for a
genuinely mortal futurity. Death and birth, appropriately enough in light of
the connotations of floral symbolism, find their connection in Arwen in that
moment; nevertheless, there is a beyond of that closed cycle, which haunts
the drabble, and suggests the Gift of Men that transcends the bounds of the
finite. So in closing: read this drabble; take it for all it is worth. Thank
you, Alawa, for perhaps the most suggestive one hundred words I've read in
quite some time.


Title: To Labor and
<http://www.henneth-annun.net/stories/chapter.cfm?STID=4557> To Wait ·
Author: Aliana
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=20
8> · Races/Places: Gondor: Houses of Healing · ID: 79
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=12&form_story_filter=79>
Reviewer: Nancy
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=10
5> Brooke · 2005-06-04 15:42:48 Score: 3
This is an excellent story, the more so for taking the same moment and
giving it five separate voices, five different hopes and fears. I
particularly liked how the City itself was often characterized - with its
smells, quiet and the walls holding their breath.

Title: Swan
<http://www.henneth-annun.net/challenge/chapter.cfm?STID=4204&NGID=286>
Flight · Author: AmandaK
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=20
9> · Genres: Drama (includes Angst): Gondor · ID: 84
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=12&form_story_filter=84>
Reviewer: Nancy
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=10
5> Brooke · 2005-06-04 16:06:45 Score: 2
The beginning of this story was an immediate hook, and the characterizations
were good. I found it sort of unfinished, though.

Title: Close your
<http://www.henneth-annun.net/stories/chapter.cfm?STID=4276> Eyes · Author:
Werecat
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=83
> · Books/Time: The Lord of The Rings: Poetry · ID: 95
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=12&form_story_filter=95>
Reviewer: Nancy
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=10
5> Brooke · 2005-06-04 16:19:40 Score: 1
Very sweet, and very appropriately Dwarven, I thought. The last line is
particularly poignant and appealing.

Title: Requiem for
<http://www.henneth-annun.net/stories/chapter.cfm?STID=3859> Boromir ·
Author: maranya14
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=12
0> · Books/Time: Post-Ring War · ID: 6
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=12&form_story_filter=6>
Reviewer: Nancy
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=10
5> Brooke · 2005-06-05 13:05:07 Score: 3
Thank you. This is a true requiem in that it brings the departed and those
who loved him together again. Your verses, too, bring the lament back
clearly into my mind. I think you did a good and appropriately strategic
thing in not including the whole lament here, but completing it.

Title: Dance of
<http://www.henneth-annun.net/stories/chapter.cfm?STID=3312> Terrible Grace
· Author: Adina
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=19
8> ATL · Races/Places: Cross-Cultural: Vignette · ID: 57
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=12&form_story_filter=57>
Reviewer: Nancy
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=10
5> Brooke · 2005-06-05 13:06:26 Score: 1
A great, flash of an idea unfortunately, I thought, weighed down with too
much unnecessary description.

Title: Fairer Than
<http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterlistview.asp?SID=3587> Most · Author:
SlightlyTookish
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=20
5> · Races/Places: Hobbits: War of the Ring · ID: 69
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=12&form_story_filter=69>
Reviewer: Nancy
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=10
5> Brooke · 2005-06-05 13:18:36 Score: 3
This story has a lot of joys: good characterizations, a plausible and
in-keeping with Canon plot, and fun. I particularly liked Sam and Aragorn
coming together; a more unlikely pair in that quintet is hard to imagine but
for the skill and good sense of this author.

Title: On
<http://www.henneth-annun.net/challenge/chapter.cfm?STID=317&NGID=2> His
Stewardship · Author: Alawa
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=10
3> · Races/Places: Gondor: Poetry · ID: 73
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=12&form_story_filter=73>
Reviewer: Nancy
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=10
5> Brooke · 2005-06-05 13:24:01 Score: 2
Two remarkable poems each catching clearly the Steward's voice. Who but
Denethor could be so vain and proud about serving in another's place? And
sees his city as the only love he can truly have.


[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]

Msg# 5096

Reviews Final as of 8/17/2005 part 12 Posted by Ainaechoiriel August 17, 2005 - 23:13:15 Topic ID# 5096
Title: Travellers'
<http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterlistview.asp?SID=2523> Tales · Author:
Alawa
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=10
3> · Books/Time: The Hobbit · ID: 75
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=13&form_story_filter=75>
Reviewer: Nancy
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=10
5> Brooke · 2005-06-05 13:28:31 Score: 2
Great story. The way the narrative rambles through all Bilbo's so thoughts
naturally and plausibly is remarkable - not a rough transition anywhere.
This story hits all the right notes in a wonderful little song.

Title: The Machine That Changed the
<http://www.fanfiction.net/s/1948948/1/> World · Author: Altariel
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=18
1> · Genres: Drama (includes Angst): Fourth Age · ID: 80
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=13&form_story_filter=80>
Reviewer: Nancy
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=10
5> Brooke · 2005-06-05 13:30:51 Score: 2
This was a good story - good characterizations, well told. The "what" of the
machine was obvious, however; cliched. I wish there had been more debate;
that was interesting and original.

Title: Cold <http://www.henneth-annun.net/stories/chapter.cfm?STID=3414>
Memories · Author: AmandaK
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=20
9> · Races/Places: Gondor: Vignette · ID: 82
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=13&form_story_filter=82>
Reviewer: Nancy
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=10
5> Brooke · 2005-06-05 13:31:08 Score: 1
Very sweet, tried and true characterizations.

Title: Beyond
<http://www.henneth-annun.net/challenge/chapter.cfm?STID=3977&NGID=197>
Imagination · Author: annmarwalk
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=17
7> · Races/Places: Gondor: Drabble · ID: 103
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=13&form_story_filter=103>
Reviewer: Nancy
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=10
5> Brooke · 2005-06-05 13:33:11 Score: 2
Very nice. I particularly like the knowing Finduilas and Denethor in an
arena where he has no power or control - he is most endearing that way.

Title: Alqualonde <http://www.henneth-annun.net/stories/chapter.cfm?STID=56>
· Author: Joan
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=19
0> Milligan · Books/Time: The Silmarillion: Feanor and Sons · ID: 36
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=13&form_story_filter=36>
Reviewer: Dwimordene
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=8>
· 2005-06-05 18:07:41 Score: 7
Joan Milligan poses the question: Would there have been a story if
Alqualonde had not been destroyed? It's a disturbing question, one that
could easily be interpreted as expressing a causal relation: No story, no
interest, without destruction, therefore, destruction causes stories, causes
interest. Maglor certainly finds that Tirion's mettle was uncovered only
when put to the absolute test. The whole meaning of the city is, for him,
uncovered only in its breaking. We might say this is a story about the
monstrousness of the great stories; their very greatness derives from their
destructiveness. Certainly, it's no accident that Maglor, Maedhros, and
Fëanor all find something worthwhile in the ruins. If ever there were a
peculiarly elvish 'sin', making ethics subordinate to aesthetics might well
be it. Well done for bringing that forward, Joan. This is one of the first
round of Tolkien fics I read, and it has remained with me ever since.

Title: Last Hero <http://www.henneth-annun.net/stories/chapter.cfm?STID=193>
· Author: Joan
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=19
0> Milligan · Races/Places: Rohan · ID: 37
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=13&form_story_filter=37>
Reviewer: Dwimordene
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=8>
· 2005-06-05 18:08:14 Score: 9
Another story about the rather frightful relationship between death and art,
in this case presented through the eyes of Éomer and his memories of Éowyn.
Joan does a good job of giving Éomer the experience he needs of battle,
while at the same time making the battle of Pelennor a turning point for
him. The old songs make war a game, and promise a happy ending by denying
its reality. Éowyn serves here as the voice that disturbs conscience, with
her childhood questions: do Orcs feel pain? Do Easterlings? Will you come
home? She's at once a participant in the games, but also the one who
overturns the board. Éomer finally realizes this when he thinks she's died
on Pelennor, and suddenly, the falsity of the songs, their sly reliance for
their splendor on the omission of death and blood and pain and the sheer
contingency of battle, are brought home to him in a way that even previous
battle experience could not manage. At this point, Éomer is operating under
sheer necessity, and suffering the absolute brutality of that condition.
It's a great reversal, one that isn't quite recuperated back to the level of
songs when he sees Aragorn's standard and has his happy ending for just a
few minutes. But a few minutes only, it's implied, before the reality that
the songs rest upon claims its due again.

Title: Ghost <http://www.henneth-annun.net/stories/chapter.cfm?STID=3234>
Fires · Author: mir_noldoris
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=14
4> · Books/Time: The Silmarillion: Feanor and Sons · ID: 34
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=13&form_story_filter=34>
Reviewer: Dwimordene
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=8>
· 2005-06-05 21:22:57 Score: 10
Reading this fic, I'm reminded of an Eliot quote that seems to be popular on
professorial doors:

" So here I am, ... having had twenty years—
Twenty years largely wasted...
Trying to use words"

For all the play with words in this fic, it is remarkably silent—a sort of
silence of the tomb. It's appropriate, since this is a fic about the death
of not one, but two people. Though he's survived the Nirnaeth, Maedhros is
an image, a damaged sort of spectre or spectator who returns to a Hithlum
that's become a wasteland. And Fingon as speaker (or rather writer) is
actively deconstructing his letter from beyond the grave—nuancing it, taking
it back, denying it matters, denying the power of words even as he writes
them. There's something cheap about words, as he says.

But Fingon still knows better than to think he can do without saying them,
and so he struggles with them, trying to catch (without killing) something
essential for Maedhros in a final gift that probably still has too much
ambiguity to it for Fingon's taste. Nevertheless, Fingon, in his last
letter, and beyond his death, has somehow managed to cast his lot in with
the living and with life, despite it all. His letter, playful (in a serious
way), self-conscious (in a sophisticated way), almost indecent in its
intimacy, turning back on itself as communication, is nevertheless a
portrait of the relationship he and Maedhros had, and in relating it,
there's a certain liveliness to it that honors the life of that
relationship, and continues it beyond death.

Or it would, if Fingon's letter were received by the person he'd actually
addressed it to. Unfortunately, however, the elf that Fingon knew and loved
is dead in a more final and horrific manner than Fingon himself, who has
lost in the end only his body. Thus Maedhros serves as a bitter counterpoint
to Fingon's ultimate desire for and trust or faith in the vitality of the
relationship they've created.

"Look at this [letter] sometimes," Fingon writes. "Hopefully you will find a
little of the writer in between his lines. At this last, I want you to
remember that everything that you will recognise is a thing of your making.
Everything you know and love, is because of you, and what you have been to
me."

But the letter miscarries, for the Maedhros who should have received it
precisely does not recognize himself in the writer. "Allow a warrior his
moment of sentimentality, and let me say it – I have never known anyone so
wonderfully alive, as you. Everything you do and touch and so much as look
at, seems to overflow with the simple power of your will. That is worth
saving, Maitimo, no matter what happens to the rest. Keep that safe. Keep
that burning," Fingon writes, but there's nothing of that life to be kept
alive in Maedhros any longer, and so the relationship is aborted for lack of
a listener. Finding even the renewal of life in burned out Hithlum to be a
desecration of the dead, Maedhros shows he failed to absorb the lesson of
Men that Fingon had learned: that life does go on. And so ultimately what
Maedhros lets burn is not life in its glory, but the very letter by which
Fingon holds out a lifeline.

Another beautifully, horribly compelling vision of Maedhros and his descent
by Eärmírë, anyone with any love for the Silm will want to read this.


Title: Gloria Mundi <http://www.fanfiction.net/s/2149186/1/> · Author:
Altariel
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=18
1> · Genres: Drama (includes Angst): Drabble · ID: 38
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=13&form_story_filter=38>
Reviewer: Dwimordene
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=8>
· 2005-06-05 21:43:55 Score: 10
If there's a theme running through these drabbles, it's "visionary" or
"imagination", and their power to transcend the limits of a bounded
existence. Whether it's the whisper that an aging, blind Malbeth, stripped
of pride and place, faithfully repeats even to the hopelessly deaf, or
Nienna who places faith in the power of pity to move even fate, the subjects
of the tales all stretch towards something they can sometimes scarcely
envision, barely articulate, and which comes to them in often flawed form.

The glory of the world comes in holding on to what is not yet in it, it
seems, but which might be and which involves the visionary or even the
ordinary in something far beyond themselves. It's a kind of absurdity in its
way, but the sort of absurdity that deserves to be taken seriously as a
relaxation of necessity, an escape from the bounds and limits of the past,
from the sense of having always come too late or being too powerless in the
present moment to do any good. Tolkien might have called the sentiment or
orientation running through these drabbles "estel", and opposed it to
"amdir". Thus not only does Altariel once again takes full advantage of the
one hundred words allotted her, but she gives us a lovely quintet of
drabbles, one admirably suited to themes I think Tolkien would recognize as
his own. Well done! I'm very pleased to have provoked this sort of fictional
reaction.


Title: Offerings <http://www.fanfiction.net/s/1361107/1/> · Author: Lyllyn
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=18
8> · Books/Time: Post-Ring War · ID: 27
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=13&form_story_filter=27>
Reviewer: Dwimordene
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=8>
· 2005-06-05 22:38:57 Score: 10
"Offerings" gives us an introspective Éowyn that makes efficient use of the
few hundred words it permits itself. Éowyn's conversion from despairing,
wounded warrior to a healer willing to put down her shield at last is a
source of some controversy in terms of whether or not it comes too quickly,
whether thematic interests overtook character development to the point of
damaging the latter. And then there is the small matter of whether we should
see Éowyn as a heroine or as a deserter. Lyllyn takes these elements and
shows Éowyn's cyclical struggle to make them all cohere. Where other authors
tend to put the accent on what she accomplished for others in terms of
judging her, Lyllyn gives us a different rubric that makes the most of the
split between the external standard by which Éowyn is normally evaluated and
the internal standard that usually is used to excuse her:

" And that is what she remembers best at this time. That in the end,
whatever difference it made to others, it made little to her when she woke -
still broken. Great deeds did not redeem the damaged soul."

Judging Éowyn from a third person perspective inevitably tends to highlight
either her internal motivations as selfish, or else her external deeds as
outweighing any faults Éowyn may have committed, or it too easily renders
Éowyn a clinical case of depression, pure and simple and in that sense,
neither right nor wrong. By allowing Éowyn to give us her own internal
rubric—to admit that she rode in part because she was damaged, even
crippled, and saw her ride as a last, desperate attempt to recover herself
by doing what her people reserve to healthy persons—the external measure of
deeds gets integrated differently. They have to be judged against the
internal expectations of the relationship that Éowyn entered into with them,
and then we see the real ambiguity of her actions and choice brought out.

On the one hand, the external deeds are shown to be totally inadequate
measures of her endeavor, not because Éowyn is in some objective sense
morally at fault, but because they did not meet her expectations. On the
other, because of that failure, that inadequacy itself forces her to
question whether her expectations, her fixing on Dernhelm as the solution to
her need to heal herself, were fundamentally flawed, so that it's a
question, firstly, of whether she understood the end that a warrior serves,
and then secondly, whether she respected that end *or* the end she had given
herself, namely to mend the broken soul she was and so make herself
serviceable.

That puts her beyond the limits of the heroine/deserter question—in a sense,
it's the wrong question, that ends in a too simple answer. And if we can
infer from this fic that Éowyn remains still in the shadow of the
heroine/deserter debate, in practice, she has moved beyond that and decided
that she was wrong to ride insofar as she misunderstood (and so unwittingly
offended) a warrior's calling; but by the same token, she's realized that
healing, real self-transformation, is not achievable by picking up a sword.
That's the meaning of her atonement, I think: she demonstrates in dedicating
herself to others as a healer that she respects now the separation between
that calling to mend brokenness in self and others from the calling of a
warrior, which is wholly different. It doesn't mean she doesn't still have
doubts or feel conflicted over the ambiguity of her actions as they are
conceived in the terms of the heroine/deserter debate, but she recognizes
that the best apology she can make is success in her new life as healer.


Title: Five Things That Never Happened to
<http://www.fanfiction.net/s/2103245/1/> Faramir & Eowyn · Author: Altariel
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=18
1> · Books/Time: The Lord of The Rings: Drabble · ID: 39
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=13&form_story_filter=39>
Reviewer: Dwimordene
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=8>
· 2005-06-06 00:05:03 Score: 8
Well, these five hundred words have permanently cured me of any desire to
write an AU to Faramir and Éowyn's romance, which is perhaps unfortunate
since I'm kind of committed by a prior fic... The basic possibilities are
all gracefully covered: that Éowyn didn't ride as Dernhelm, that Faramir
went to Imladris instead of Boromir, that Éowyn married Aragorn, and two
scenarios in which the war is lost but in one way or another, the
relationship between them is won. There are a few other options, but they
strike me as less interesting. Powerful in their brevity, these five
drabbles cut right to the heart of the matter every time, and feel
remarkably complete considering how short they are. Hope and despair each
have their moments, but more times than not, true to Tolkienish form, hope
prevails, even in the darkest of circumstances. I think the last one moved
me most: what do you do when you live to regret the victory of your enemy,
and the utter destruction of the society you knew? Toil, age, and most
importantly love, because that in the end is what keeps hope alive. An
absolutely gorgeous little set—bravo, Altariel!

Title: Fathers' Day Card from
<http://www.berryarts.com/lizallinos/denethor.html> Faramir · Author: Llinos
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=25
> · Genres: Humor: Poetry · ID: 788
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=13&form_story_filter=788>
Reviewer: Raksha
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=17
8> the Demon · 2005-06-07 03:55:07 Score: 2
Very funny; and well-rhymed! It's always amusing to see humorous takes on
the usually angst-filled relationship of Denethor and Faramir.

Title: Strange
<http://www.henneth-annun.net/challenge/chapter.cfm?STID=3510&NGID=140>
Meeting · Author: JeannieMac
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=29
1> · Races/Places: Gondor: Houses of Healing · ID: 743
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=13&form_story_filter=743>
Reviewer: Raksha
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=17
8> the Demon · 2005-06-07 04:09:11 Score: 4
A short and powerful retelling of Aragorn's finding Faramir in the "dark
vale" of the Shadow. I envision Faramir to be more resistant to despair at
the time that Aragorn finds him, but this story makes sense and holds the
reader's attention as it is. I particularly liked Faramir's recognition of
Aragorn's wry, self-deprecating humor as well as the kingly authority.

Title: Fever <http://www.henneth-annun.net/stories/chapter.cfm?STID=4431>
Dreams · Author: Gwynnyd
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=18
6> · Races/Places: Gondor: Houses of Healing · ID: 397
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=13&form_story_filter=397>
Reviewer: Raksha
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=17
8> the Demon · 2005-06-07 04:18:23 Score: 4
One of my favorite Faramir-in-the-Houses-of-Healing stories; a lovely take
on Faramir's memories of being healed by Aragorn, and how he perceives them,
a nifty intermingling of past and future. Excellent characterisation of
Faramir and Pippin. I like Faramir's bleak courage when he thinks that the
City is still under attack and prepares to go out to battle even though
injured...

Title: Below the
<http://www.henneth-annun.net/stories/chapter.cfm?STID=2996> Balcony ·
Author: Ninamazing
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=30
9> · Races/Places: Gondor: Houses of Healing · ID: 496
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=13&form_story_filter=496>
Reviewer: Raksha
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=17
8> the Demon · 2005-06-07 04:26:16 Score: 2
What a great idea - three scenes showing original characters who see Faramir
and Eowyn's embrace on the walls! Well-written. The best section was that of
that of the elderly gardener trying to will his plants back into life...

Title: Prelude <http://www.fanfiction.net/s/513858/1/> · Author: Mercat
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=22
5> · Races/Places: Cross-Cultural: Vignette · ID: 109
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=13&form_story_filter=109>
Reviewer: Nancy
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=10
5> Brooke · 2005-06-07 15:49:59 Score: 3
A very enjoyable story. I particularly liked Legolas's aloofness and simple,
clear view of things - very characteristic to my mind. The detail of Frodo's
not caring about their route rang true and was a great metaphor for his
condition at the time.

Title: Light
<http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterview.asp?sid=3535&cid=13431> and Leaf
and Color · Author: annmarwalk
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=17
7> · Genres: Romance: Drabble · ID: 110
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=13&form_story_filter=110>
Reviewer: Nancy
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=10
5> Brooke · 2005-06-07 15:52:33 Score: 3
Very good. I began to wonder at Denethor's seeming sentimentality but, when
I completed the drabble and knew it as a whole saw more his giving her the
news and describing the city he loves before getting straight and to the
point. Very insightful characterization.

Title: Marriage
<http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterview.asp?sid=3140&cid=12153> Counseling
· Author: annmarwalk
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=17
7> · Races/Places: Gondor: Pre-Quest Drabbles · ID: 111
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=13&form_story_filter=111>
Reviewer: Nancy
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=10
5> Brooke · 2005-06-07 15:54:05 Score: 2
Very nice, simple, clear; this captures a moment nicely. I love it when a
drabble sounds natural and unforced as this does.

Title: Beast of <http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterlistview.asp?SID=2325>
Burden · Author: Werecat
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=83
> · Genres: Drama (includes Angst) · ID: 118
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=13&form_story_filter=118>
Reviewer: jillian
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=9>
baade · 2005-06-07 21:48:04 Score: 1
I love this, the story of the old plough horse who is a hero. It shows the
horrors and courage of war so clearly.

Title: Home Cooking
<http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterlistview.asp?SID=1468> Hobbit-Stlye ·
Author: Budgielover
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=24
1> · Races/Places: Hobbits: War of the Ring · ID: 175
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=13&form_story_filter=175>
Reviewer: jillian
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=9>
baade · 2005-06-07 22:16:58 Score: 1
Great!! I loved the attack of vicious soap bubbles especially.

Title: The Soul of a Sinda <http://www.freewebs.com/aure/soulofasinda.htm>
· Author: Marta
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=16
> · Races/Places: Elves: Post-Ring War · ID: 959
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=13&form_story_filter=959>
Reviewer: elfqueen2003
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=17
1> · 2005-06-07 23:14:56 Score: 1
very short, but very touching

Title: The Rooster Man
<http://www.henneth-annun.net/stories/chapter.cfm?STID=338> of Gondor ·
Author: Chelsea
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=27
2> Nolan · Books/Time: The Lord of The Rings: Gondor · ID: 321
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=13&form_story_filter=321>
Reviewer: Dwimordene
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=8>
· 2005-06-08 22:06:03 Score: 10
I remember seeing this pop up as a recommendation in my e-mail, and I
thought at first that it was some sort of joke. But it turned out to be a
story filling a gap I'd never noticed existed, and forever more, the cock
that crowed and signaled the beginning of the end of the siege of Minas
Tirith will be associated with this fic.

Among its many virtues is the fact that here is a tale of the mad in
Middle-earth. You know there must have been people who suffered from various
forms of mostly harmless psychoses (as opposed to Black Breath induced
ailments), but we don't see them in Tolkien's writing. The Rooster Man,
who's really rather cast adrift in this fic and left to scratch among the
deserted streets when everyone else evacuates is a rather forlorn, pitiable
character for a time.

But just because he's mad doesn't mean he's totally without comprehension,
and he ends up finding a unique place in Minas Tirith's embattled forces. I
remember reading somewhere that in some of the most extreme situations
(concentration camps, alas), those who normally would've been considered mad
and unable to cope with society suddenly found themselves in a sense in
their element, able to function as no one else could. It's at once horrible
and wonderful—right on that edge where you don't know quite what to say. As
a mascot who keeps hope alive with a bravery that's childlike in its total
disregard for self-preservation, the Rooster Man becomes emblematic of the
elemental truth of Gandalf's words: even at the worst of times, the Rooster
Man flourishes, and so he falls within Gandalf's realms as one of those who
will bear fruit and flower, as it were, thwarting the Enemy's ultimate
triumph.

In all, a great story. Bravo, Chelsea, for such a memorable character.


Title: Bittersweet
<http://www.tolkienfanfiction.com/Story_Read_Chapter.php?CHid=1043&PHPSESSID
=466178cd3479a0f686f348cef575786a> · Author: Vistula
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=19
3> the Dunadan · Genres: Drama (includes Angst): Drabble · ID: 43
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=13&form_story_filter=43>
Reviewer: Dwimordene
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=8>
· 2005-06-08 22:16:32 Score: 7
To me, this drabble gives a nice sense of what's gone into the man that
Aragorn is, despite its brevity. It's structured in a nice triad. One begins
in the more remote past, in Imladris, with the memory of his first home and
a more innocent time; then one moves to the woman who broke him out of that
time in a way that the brute fact of being Chieftain did not, and who set
the tone for the years of isolation as years of testing, not simply
enduring—Vistula gives us a nice sense of the juxtaposition of youth and
experience that Arwen's companionship brings out in him, and the passion
that underlies Aragorn's somewhat remote, stern personality. It still might
be simply nicely nostalgic, but for the ending, when Aragorn awakes to just
another cold day's work in Eriador, and the present, the person that he is,
as the last line signals. A very nicely done sketch of my favorite Rings
character, in just one hundred words.

Title: Fëanor
<http://www.henneth-annun.net/challenge/chapter_view.cfm?NGID=51&STID=1238&S
POrdinal=1> Challenged · Author: stultiloquentia
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=15
4> · Genres: Romance: Poetry · ID: 45
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=13&form_story_filter=45>
Reviewer: Dwimordene
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=8>
· 2005-06-08 22:34:58 Score: 8
I don't analyze poetic form with any skill, so I'll spare everyone the
effort, but the rhythm here is just delightful. As is the content. Fëanor
and Galadriel are a match for each other in terms of pride, and this as much
as anything fuels this rather pointed courtship. The poem is called the
"challenge of Fëanor", and he certainly takes up Galadriel's mocking words
as a challenge to his skill: can he win her heart, despite her scorn? Love
and possession go hand in hand with Fëanor, as Stultiloquentia suggests by
the very form of the poem: his stanzas bracket hers, enclosing Galadriel's
reply as if anticipating a successful capture of the lady's affections. It's
all a bit malevolent. Which is not to say Galadriel goes meekly—although I'm
assured that the meter is consistent throughout, to the eye, Galadriel's
stanza has shorter lines. They visibly narrow the poem, and so seem more
pointed, more emphatic echoing her rather sharp rejection of Fëanor. Even
those intimidated by poetry will, I think, find something to enjoy here.

Title: Dark
<http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterview.asp?sid=1887&cid=9911> Memory ·
Author: Forodwaith
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=50
> · Books/Time: The Lord of The Rings: Drabble · ID: 46
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=13&form_story_filter=46>
Reviewer: Dwimordene
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=8>
· 2005-06-08 22:45:38 Score: 5
I can always be tempted by fics featuring Aragorn and Halbarad, and
Forodwaith gives a tantalizing snapshot of the two of them trying to make
their way through Moria. The wherefores and hows are not given, just the
dread and danger of the journey, and a sense of friendship that runs at
least as deep as the mines, which can find comfort in a bare touch to remind
each other that they aren't alone. I would love to see the rest of the
story, but as an evocation of atmosphere and the comfort of companionship,
the drabble suffices. For now...

Title: A Bitter
<http://www.henneth-annun.net/stories/chapter.cfm?STID=3500> Gift · Author:
Avon
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=15
> · Races/Places: Cross-Cultural · ID: 47
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=13&form_story_filter=47>
Reviewer: Dwimordene
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=8>
· 2005-06-08 22:47:24 Score: 8
With apologies to Avon, I'm going to resort to an old review I wrote and
expand it a bit. I've seen a couple of different fics that examine how
Elrond would've explained mortality to a young Aragorn. It's certainly an
interesting topic, and the Aragorn addict in me finds the idea fascinating,
that one would have to learn about dying secondhand, because no one around
you naturally ages or dies. "Bitter Gift" does justice to the characters,
both in terms of species but also in terms of age: Aragorn is believably a
child here, but not a caricature of one--I could see the adult Aragorn we're
familiar with from LOTR growing out of this boy. Elrond is believably
immortal, though one who has had to deal with death in a way most Elves do
not. Avon is very effective in using Elrond's own past to create a realistic
ambivalence in him towards death as a gift, one that is matched by Aragorn's
ambivalence in accepting out of duty, but wishing the Gift had not been
given. Well done!


[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]

Msg# 5097

Reviews Final as of 8/17/2005 part 13 Posted by Ainaechoiriel August 17, 2005 - 23:14:30 Topic ID# 5097
Title: The
<http://www.henneth-annun.net/challenge/chapter_view.cfm?NGID=90&STID=2061&S
POrdinal=6> Swan Feather · Author: Starlight
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=19
5> · Genres: Romance: Vignette · ID: 50
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=14&form_story_filter=50>
Reviewer: Dwimordene
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=8>
· 2005-06-09 23:43:55 Score: 7
This is a very unique depiction of Denethor and Finduilas, quite angst-free,
and with a lovely sense of play to it. We usually see the serious side of
Denethor and Finduilas, but not in this little vignette. Despite the fact it
takes place mostly at night, in the dark, there's a delightful sunniness to
this depiction of the two that is rarely found in fandom. I think what I
love best about it is that we see the private side of their lives that's
totally unattached to government—which means it's not family talk either.
No, instead, we see Finduilas like nearly any other bride, excited by what
seems a good start to her new life, but also bound by the superstitious
traditions of her past. What we don't expect is that Denethor's own
superstitious precautions for a good marriage would thwart hers. The
resolution is both touching and humorous—looks like things are off to a good
start at least!

Title: There
<http://www.tolkienfanfiction.com/Story_Read_Chapter.php?CHid=1129> And Back
Again · Author: Azalais
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=18
7> · Books/Time: The Hobbit: Drabble · ID: 51
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=14&form_story_filter=51>
Reviewer: Dwimordene
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=8>
· 2005-06-09 23:44:55 Score: 4
One can never get enough of Bilbo disrupting the expectations of his
neighbors. His arrival back from the quest of Erebor just in time to save
his parlor chairs (but not his silver) is vintage Bilbo, imbued with the
confidence and cheek that survivors of tender mercies of live dragons tend
to have. And a lovely glimpse of Hamfast here, that suggests that family
loyalty we will later see between the Gamgees and the Bagginses.

Title: Grey and Pale
<http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterlistview.asp?SID=1252> Gold · Author:
Kielle
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=19
7> · Genres: Drama (includes Angst) · ID: 54
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=14&form_story_filter=54>
Reviewer: Dwimordene
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=8>
· 2005-06-09 23:47:03 Score: 10
Sorry to repeat an old review. This is a very good exploration of loss of
growing up in Middle-earth. Death happens, it's present, oftentimes
overwhelmingly so, and children learn to deal with it early, in spite of the
efforts of adults to shelter them. "Children weren't supposed to know...."
But Éomer knows what the lack of a body means, and he's waking to the fact
of the title and responsibilities he's inherited. Everything is still rather
black-and-white for him, though: he isn't thinking in the long run, but in
terms of what's present, just as a child would. I kept thinking of Bergil in
LoTR, running herbs back and forth to the healers, and breaking down and
crying over Faramir because it's all just overwhelming. Éomer's fear over
the prospect of leaving the Eastfold and his hostility towards Théodred are
very reminiscent of that scene, or at least it is to me.

Likewise, Éowyn isn't supposed to know that her mother is dying, but she
does. Of all the adults and near-adults who're pulled into this family
tragedy, she's the one who knows what needs, at base, to be done. Shades of
the future, as she shows Théoden with a child's forthrightness how to accept
the unacceptable. It seems she began her training in that early.

Finally, I liked picture of Théodred in this, as well--I can see why Éomer
is so fond of him, and why his loss would be devastating later.


Title: In the <http://www.henneth-annun.net/stories/chapter.cfm?STID=2759>
Wild · Author: Forodwaith
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=50
> · Genres: Horror · ID: 304
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=14&form_story_filter=304>
Reviewer: Dwimordene
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=8>
· 2005-06-09 23:48:01 Score: 7
Ah, yes, the ever popular question: so what sort of knowledge, exactly, did
Aragorn have when he warned the hobbits in Bree about the Nazgûl? What was
behind his apparent recollection of them? Forodwaith provides us with a
plausible answer in this story, sending a young Aragorn, still quite green
and finding his feet as a Ranger, on what ought to be an easy escort mission
home with a wounded older companion. As might be guessed, that's not at all
how things go, as first wargs, and then the Nazgûl themselves ambush them on
the edge of Mirkwood forest.

The writing is nicely atmospheric and brings out the fear and horror of the
situation well—the Nazgûl standing silently by as Aragorn prepares what he
imagines must be his final defense are eerie and enigmatic, which I very
much like. The wargs, too, are quite suitably vicious and cruel, and I still
shudder over Mallor's fate. A very nice gap-filler, one that Aragorn fans
will surely enjoy.


Title: Cover
<http://www.henneth-annun.net/challenge/chapter_view.cfm?NGID=203&STID=3752&
SPOrdinal=1> Him with Violets · Author: Regina
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=10
4> · Genres: Drama (includes Angst): War of the Ring · ID: 347
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=14&form_story_filter=347>
Reviewer: Dwimordene
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=8>
· 2005-06-10 00:40:10 Score: 6
I seem to be making a tradition of nominating Regina fics that deal with
death and burial customs. As a gap-filler, this gives us Ioreth in a
sympathetic light, which I'm always in favor of finding—no easy task when
she ends up on the wrong side of Aragorn's and Gandalf's opinions. We're
reminded with this vignette of the minor characters--the ones who don't have
a royal or at least noble pedigree lurking somewhere in the background, and
who suffer and die namelessly but necessarily in this war. You see the
'small' struggles that go on, and the need to reclaim, in a way, the
memories and lives of even strangers in order to honor them.

Title: He Who
<http://www.tolkienfanfiction.com/Story_Read_Chapter.php?CHid=248> Laughs ·
Author: Altariel
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=18
1> · Books/Time: The Silmarillion: First Age · ID: 398
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=14&form_story_filter=398>
Reviewer: Dwimordene
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=8>
· 2005-06-10 01:17:27 Score: 8
This is one of those pearls that one occasionally finds, where a lengthy
story gets boiled down to its essence and then distilled in a few lines of
gorgeous prose. The brevity of this fic only heightens its impact—there
really isn't a wasted word in this story, that opens, appropriately, with
the act that closes it: laughter. Túrin's entire arc is present here, in
this short meditation on the movements of fate, and speaking as one who
personally cannot tolerate another reading of the "Narn i hin Húrin", I can
certainly sympathize with *this* Túrin's reflections on his life, and the
way everything seems to tend inevitably towards the undoing of his efforts,
the thwarting of every good intention as action turns back against the
actor. And surely the gift of Men has never been put to such fearful use
before, as the epiphany that moves Túrin to laugh again at the end of his
life, and then choose death. Well written, and the ending, with the vengeful
celestial swordsman, just waiting for Armageddon day to avenge the wrongs of
fate, is a wonderful image.

Title: The Unexpected
<http://www.henneth-annun.net/stories/chapter.cfm?STID=3151> Homecoming ·
Author: JMac
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=38
3> · Books/Time: The Hobbit · ID: 792
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=14&form_story_filter=792>
Reviewer: Dwimordene
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=8>
· 2005-06-10 01:40:40 Score: 7
The joy of coming-home fics is the opportunity they afford to show how a
character has changed, and how once-familiar surroundings no longer fit as
they once did. Of course, the Shire is in quite the uproar when Bilbo
returns home after Erebor, a wizard in tow, to the terror of all those
who've gotten bargain prices on Bag End furnishings. Jmac uses the inherent
ridiculousness of the situation very well, as Bilbo goes on a quest to
retrieve his favorite chair from the Sackville-Baggins—although humorous, it
shows his mettle, now well tempered by dragon fire and numerous other
hardships.

Beyond that, Gandalf is put to good use as a foil, and comes off very well,
which I quite enjoyed, Gandalf being a difficult character to capture. This
gapfiller really does round out "The Hobbit" nicely in both tone and
content; I quite enjoyed it.


Title: Reconciliation
<http://www.henneth-annun.net/stories/chapter.cfm?STID=3745> · Author:
Nrink
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=19
4> · Books/Time: Post-Ring War · ID: 44
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=14&form_story_filter=44>
Reviewer: Dwimordene
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=8>
· 2005-06-10 09:34:34 Score: 8
Ah, family matters! I think what I like best about this is the sense of
moral pilgrimage that maps onto the physical journey Faramir undertakes to
reunite his mother and father, and so to restore, in a way, family ties that
had been broken. It's appropriate, too, that this begins with a vision—one
that no brother will take from him this time, as it comes to him alone. In a
sense, this dream and the other complement each other, and as Faramir's
first dream helped set the world on the path to liberation, so this one sets
him on his own private path to freedom. Because that urn full of Denethor's
ashes feels awfully like an albatross, which is brought out clearly in his
memories. In setting it down at last with Finduilas in Dol Amroth, Faramir
is able, to borrow a line from the movieverse, to stop carrying the weight
of the dead on his shoulders. His father's final command from beyond the
grave undoes the last command he gave Faramir in life, such that in
fulfilling it, Faramir finds peace at last, rather than torment, in being
the dutiful son.

Title: Natural
<http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterview.asp?sid=3140&cid=12145> History ·
Author: annmarwalk
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=17
7> · Genres: Drama (includes Angst): Fourth Age · ID: 112
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=14&form_story_filter=112>
Reviewer: Nancy
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=10
5> Brooke · 2005-06-10 14:20:17 Score: 2
Very nice; I enjoyed seeing Faramir become a content old man in love with
the land around him. This is what peace should feel like.

Title: In Umbar, at
<http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterlistview.asp?SID=2307> the docks ·
Author: Werecat
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=83
> · Genres: Mystery · ID: 117
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=14&form_story_filter=117>
Reviewer: Nancy
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=10
5> Brooke · 2005-06-10 14:34:31 Score: 2
Excellent, atmospheric story. It stands well on its own. Well paced with the
repititions providing nice structure that both show progress and harken back
to the start.

Title: Foolish <http://www.fanfiction.net/s/1930540/1/> Hobbit · Author:
Tialys
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=23
0> · Books/Time: Gap-Filler: Hobbits · ID: 120
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=14&form_story_filter=120>
Reviewer: Nancy
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=10
5> Brooke · 2005-06-10 14:40:09 Score: 2
Great job. The characterizations were particularly strong and refreshing
here; this is the Gandalf of the Hobbit - myterious, obtuse, humorous; and a
lively, impassioned Frodo. Lovely to see.

Title: Eyes like the
<http://henneth-annun.net/stories/chapter.cfm?stid=4609> Moon · Author:
Werecat
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=83
> · Races/Places: Men: Poetry · ID: 125
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=14&form_story_filter=125>
Reviewer: Nancy
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=10
5> Brooke · 2005-06-10 14:43:00 Score: 2
Very nice; I found the repeated line in the poem tiresome after a bit but
the short portrait of Faramir was gripping and moving. I wonder he didn't
think more on the soldier himself, though.

Title: Something Wicked
<http://henneth-annun.net/stories/chapter.cfm?STID=4323> This Way Comes ·
Author: Werecat
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=83
> · Genres: Horror · ID: 130
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=14&form_story_filter=130>
Reviewer: Nancy
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=10
5> Brooke · 2005-06-10 14:55:43 Score: 2
Very eerie, very interesting. The Captain is a well-drawn character, It's
provocative to see Aragorn and that battle from the other side, and the foe
in some ways as victims.

Title: The Mark of a... <http://www.scribeoz.com/fanfic/story.php?no=1315>
Warrior? · Author: Ariel
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=16
2> · Races/Places: Cross-Cultural: Humor · ID: 133
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=14&form_story_filter=133>
Reviewer: Nancy
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=10
5> Brooke · 2005-06-10 14:59:35 Score: 2
So funny ... and explores nicely what must have been an ordinary and oft
repeated moment in the trip in a very amusing - but oh so typically male -
way!

Title: Leavetakings
<http://www.tolkienfanfiction.com/Story_Read_Chapter.php?CHid=1124> ·
Author: Azalais
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=18
7> · Genres: Drama (includes Angst): Drabble · ID: 138
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=14&form_story_filter=138>
Reviewer: Nancy
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=10
5> Brooke · 2005-06-10 15:02:04 Score: 2
Very nice, simple and straight forward yet quite evocative. It's an
interesting thought that one's death can bring a friend peace.

Title: Mary Mordor
<http://www.henneth-annun.net/stories/chapter.cfm?STID=411> Sue · Author:
Meg
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=18
3> Thornton · Genres: Alternate Universe · ID: 7
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=14&form_story_filter=7>
Reviewer: simon22cat
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=45
0> · 2005-06-11 10:54:36 Score: 1
Very good. Kept my attention to the very end.

Title: The Old Dwarf and the Sea <http://www.fanfiction.net/s/1819850/1/> ·
Author: Isabeau
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=18
2> of Greenlea · Books/Time: Post-Ring War: Incomplete · ID: 3
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=14&form_story_filter=3>
Reviewer: Dwimordene
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=8>
· 2005-06-11 12:11:37 Score: 10
Although many of Isabeau of Greenlea's stories incorporate great humorous
episodes, I've never seen her do an out and out comedy until I read this
story. And what a story it is!

Reviewing humor is difficult, but I think it is safe to say that Isabeau
pulls no punches. She exploits the stereotypical differences between Gimli
and Legolas as an Elf and a Dwarf without quite crossing over into boring
clichés. And I must give props for the fact that Gimli gets all the good
lines. Indeed, Gimli is the hero of this story, and I commend her for giving
him his due without reducing this to slapstick; PJ, sit up and take notes!
And Gimli fans, gather round, because you won't want to miss this.

As might be expected with a Dwarf at the comic helm, geeky references and
engineering jokes abound. Isabeau is utterly merciless here: I never thought
I would see references to Star Trek, Murphy's Law, or Gilligan's Island
serving as punchlines for a Tolkien fic and actually *working*. There is
something indescribably wrong, and yet at the same time, so very, *very*
right about the notion of Gimli presiding over the (dangerous,
mishap-ridden) creation of motorized power in Valinor, with geek Elves named
after the Wright Brothers for sidekicks. Truly, the Undying Lands will never
be the same again! Yet the humor never occurs at the expense of
characterization—this is intelligent comedy, thoroughly enjoyable, and far
truer, I think, to book!Gimli than his movie incarnation ever was.

Although a WIP, I recommend it without hesitation—readers should be sorry to
miss it. In any case, I hope whatever mood Isabeau was in when she wrote
this strikes again soon!


Title: Beleg's Doom: or,
<http://www.libraryofmoria.com/turinbeleg/belegsdoom.txt> Most Definitely
Not The Lay Of Turin · Author: Tehta
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=18
5> · Genres: Humor: Metafic · ID: 42
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=14&form_story_filter=42>
Reviewer: Dwimordene
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=8>
· 2005-06-11 12:16:17 Score: 7
The author's note says that she took an "over-enthusiastic" interpretation
of "Laws and Customs of the Eldar" and so set poor Beleg on his path of
doom. The utter cluelessness of Elves with regard to their own biology backs
up an account of the bumbling romance in the works between Beleg and Túrin,
the latter of whom is clueless in a more typically masculine way. If ever
they were left alone together, with no interruptions, one gets the feeling
they'd need all night to figure out what they were supposed to do with each
other.

Replete with the enthusiastic application of sword-metaphores, and Beleg's
careful noting of them, and quoted lines you can scarcely believe weren't
begging to be taken subtextually, Tehta skewers the cliché about the
clueless, virginal slash male in an absolutely merciless fashion. Despite
wincing, I couldn't help but laugh.


Title: Not Without
<http://www.henneth-annun.net/stories/chapter.cfm?STID=3879> Hope · Author:
Gwynnyd
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=18
6> · Books/Time: Gap-Filler: Drama · ID: 48
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=14&form_story_filter=48>
Reviewer: Dwimordene
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=8>
· 2005-06-11 12:20:06 Score: 10
This is, without a doubt, the best fictional exposition on this topic that I
have ever seen. Gwynnyd starts with one of those irritating problems of
logic that plague the Appendix, and gives a great explanation of it that
makes sense not just of how Gilraen and Aragorn could be kept in Rivendell
without rousing the suspicions of the Dark Lord that perhaps he'd not quite
managed to stamp out the line of Isildur, but also of Gilraen's apparent
isolation from her people upon her return. It's a gutsy move on Gilraen's
part, and it really shows her commitment, both to the Dúnedain and also to
her son—she can't go to the borders to fight for him, but she is willing to
lay her reputation on the block for him without hesitation, which takes a
psychological toughness as well as calculation.

Beyond the logistical problem that Gwynnyd very neatly solves, the reader is
made to share Gilraen's grief over Arathorn's death, her stifling sense of
helplessness and anger before the designs of Arathorn's second in command,
who is just as devoted to the line of Isildur, but lacks the imagination
that Gilraen has. One can feel for both characters, despite their opposition
and the severe power discrepancy between them. Gwynnyd captures the
emotional rawness in a very satisfying manner, and even though Gilraen is,
in a way, very much defined by her child, it isn't a cheap
identification—you feel for Gilraen, for her limited agency, but you have to
cheer for her for her willingness to claim what little space she has to
maneuver in as an unarmed woman among men. "Not Without Hope" is aptly named
on more than one level, and I highly recommend it to any Aragorn fan or
Dúnedain fanciers—you won't want to miss this one. Thanks for a fic
well-written, Gwynnyd.


Title: A Step
<http://www.livejournal.com/users/talechallenge14/5258.html#cutid1> in The
Dark · Author: SilverMoonLady
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=34
3> · Books/Time: Gap-Filler: Drabble · ID: 1221
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=14&form_story_filter=1221>
Reviewer: Lindelea
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=27
> · 2005-06-11 20:39:52 Score: 3
Reading this a second time, I still suffer a chill. What a frightening
image! I don't know if the drop you don't see is better than the drop you
see... sometimes imagination is worse than the reality! I'm certainly glad
Legolas put out his hand, just at that moment!

Title: Sight <http://www.henneth-annun.net/stories/chapter.cfm?STID=4380> ·
Author: Aeneid
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=20
1> · Races/Places: Gondor: Original Characters · ID: 374
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=14&form_story_filter=374>
Reviewer: EdorasLass
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=29
9> · 2005-06-12 13:43:39 Score: 4
Mmmmm, I just love this. Unofficial or not, it fits very well with
Plasticchevy's story. Gil's quiet nature is captured *very* nicely, and
Boromir' s moroseness with his blindness manifests in a wholly believably
fashion. There is also a lovely way with detail - the window with the faulty
latch, the description of smells and tastes, etc. -- and the actual physical
act is evocative and rather poignant.

Title: Olorin I Was,
<http://www.henneth-annun.net/stories/chapter.cfm?STID=2844> Olorin I Am ·
Author: Arquen
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=23
3> · Books/Time: Gap-Filler · ID: 137
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=14&form_story_filter=137>
Reviewer: sulriel
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=7>
· 2005-06-12 17:27:46 Score: 2
Arquen. I have always enjoyed this unique gapfiller of such an important
time in Gandalf's life (or death, as the case may be) - we are told so
little about what happened. Thanks for writing.

Title: Something
<http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterview.asp?sid=3065&cid=13460> to Do
before the End · Author: Lindelea
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=27
> · Books/Time: Gap-Filler · ID: 753
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=14&form_story_filter=753>
Reviewer: sulriel
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=7>
· 2005-06-13 21:45:11 Score: 2
What a wonderful presentation, warming to have such help and such closure. -
it brought a tear to my eye. Thanks for writing.!!

Title: Cheery Letters
<http://www.henneth-annun.net/stories/chapter.cfm?STID=1951> From Bree ·
Author: Lulleny
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=30
2> · Books/Time: Gap-Filler: Drama · ID: 1094
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=14&form_story_filter=1094>
Reviewer: sulriel
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=7>
· 2005-06-13 21:50:32 Score: 2
An enjoyable gap-filler, and what an interesting little bit of time to fill,
great idea - and well done. I enjoyed your writing, very engaging and
active. Good job!

Title: Remembrance
<http://www.henneth-annun.net/stories/chapter.cfm?STID=2566> · Author:
Ancalime8301
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=21
4> · Books/Time: Post-Ring War: Gap-Filler · ID: 90
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=14&form_story_filter=90>
Reviewer: Dwimordene
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=8>
· 2005-06-13 23:25:48 Score: 2
Interesting take on how Frodo might've dealt with his illnesses after the
War, when he and Sam and Rose were sharing Bag End.


[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]

Msg# 5098

Reviews Final as of 8/17/2005 part 14 Posted by Ainaechoiriel August 17, 2005 - 23:14:34 Topic ID# 5098
Title: Remembrance <http://www.fanfiction.net/s/1928301/1/> · Author:
Ainaechoiriel
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=2>
· Books/Time: Post-Ring War: Gondor Drabble · ID: 108
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=15&form_story_filter=108>
Reviewer: Dwimordene
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=8>
· 2005-06-13 23:29:15 Score: 2
I think the last line sums up Legolas' relation to his mortal friends
nicely: "Grief is my burden; remembrance, my destiny". It goes well with
"Immortal" and feels suitably elvish to me. Nice!

Title: Seasong
<http://www.tolkienfanfiction.com/Story_Read_Chapter.php?CHid=1125> ·
Author: Azalais
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=18
7> · Books/Time: Post-Ring War: General Drabble · ID: 149
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=15&form_story_filter=149>
Reviewer: Dwimordene
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=8>
· 2005-06-13 23:29:46 Score: 2
Legolas in love—and in only one hundred believable words! I liked Gimli's
observation, that Legolas will need companionship that will outlast his
mortal friends, some of whom he has already lost.

Title: The End of
<http://www.henneth-annun.net/stories/chapter.cfm?STID=2592> Days · Author:
Bejai
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=23
6> · Books/Time: Post-Ring War: Aman · ID: 158
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=15&form_story_filter=158>
Reviewer: Dwimordene
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=8>
· 2005-06-13 23:30:32 Score: 6
Very poignant depiction of Galadriel, patiently waiting for one who will not
come, and of the ultimate uncertainty of the Elves: bound to Arda, whether
or not the last battle is won, they stand a very good chance of dying with
that world so far as they know. At the same time, they still have a duty to
choose to uphold what is good when that time comes, and hope beyond all
reason that after Armageddon, there is not simply nothingness in store for
them, that perhaps they will reunite with mortal friends and family and even
Elves whose bodies have faded utterly and who never came to Valinor. A
lovely tale of hope in the midst of loss and losing. Well done.

Title: The Other Day <http://www.scribeoz.com/fanfic/story.php?no=1373> ·
Author: Space
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=23
5> Weavil · Books/Time: Post-Ring War · ID: 159
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=15&form_story_filter=159>
Reviewer: Dwimordene
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=8>
· 2005-06-13 23:33:39 Score: 8
Usually we see Elves hanging about in historical time, meeting Dante or
maybe even Tolkien himself, commenting on the sheer waste of the Trojan war,
etc. The Ents have a similarly long view of matters, but it's nonetheless an
extremely differently-paced, differently-oriented view: although Elves think
on an incredibly long time-scale, as the title of this story indicates, from
the time of the Ring War to Greenpeace activism, it's all really just "the
other day" to the Ents, and even day and night aren't really remarked as
discrete intervales. The hastiness of human beings gets put into a very
treeish perspective that Tolkien doubtless would have appreciated and
recognized, as the two ents attempt to have a quiet chat with each other
about the world and are perpetually interrupted by the results of human
hastiness: wars, automobiles, bombs, tree-huggers, and part-time ecologists,
all of them with one common trait: they're so busy moving quickly, they
never learn to pay attention. It's a sad and ironic end for the Ents, but
one that isn't out of pace with the world of Men.

Title: A <http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterview.asp?sid=2199&cid=9011>
Merry Meeting at Bree · Author: maranya14
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=12
0> · Books/Time: Post-Ring War · ID: 211
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=15&form_story_filter=211>
Reviewer: Dwimordene
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=8>
· 2005-06-13 23:35:00 Score: 8
As usual, Maya imbues the rather formal tone of her writing with a very
pristine sort of color—there's a brightness to the way she writes, and it
seems she is building a nice little repertoire of stories focusing on
reunions that make use of a good-sized ensemble of characters. It was lovely
to see Nob carry much of the story for once, at least as an observer and (in
fine Shire tradition, it seems) a certain amount of eavesdropping. One
always suspected, from the glimpse of the Butterbur-Nob relationship that
Nob couldn't be nearly as slow as Butterbur made him out to be. The story
ends as Maya's stories seem to do often, by sliding into the canonical text,
as it were, but with Maya's own twist on them. I particularly appreciated
Rose's view on Arwen's and Elanor's most memorable attribute (their
beauty)—it adds that needed earthbound touch, so to speak, to keep our
legendary figures from floating straight away into hyperbole. A lovely,
cheerful story about nothing in particular, save friendship—and what, after
all, could be better than that? Well done, Maya!

Title: Garden
<http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterview.asp?sid=2998&cid=11573> · Author:
Cheryl
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=25
2> · Books/Time: Post-Ring War: Ithilien Drabble · ID: 220
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=15&form_story_filter=220>
Reviewer: Dwimordene
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=8>
· 2005-06-13 23:35:42 Score: 2
It's nice to see something made of the fact that Faramir and Legolas are
neighbors in the new age, and of Legolas' observation that gardens are badly
needed in Gondor.

Title: Touche <http://www.henneth-annun.net/stories/chapter.cfm?STID=3561>
· Author: DragonLady7
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=25
9> · Books/Time: Post-Ring War: Vignette · ID: 229
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=15&form_story_filter=229>
Reviewer: Dwimordene
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=8>
· 2005-06-13 23:36:18 Score: 3
One wonders what the matter was that led up to this little fencing match.
Given that the two are clearly playing, it could've been just about
anything. An amusing vignette—I think Éowyn's assessment of her brother's
ruthlessness right at the beginning was among the best lines and rather set
the tone for things.

Title: Dawn <http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterlistview.asp?SID=643> ·
Author: Acacea
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=19
6> · Books/Time: Post-Ring War: Gondor · ID: 251
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=15&form_story_filter=251>
Reviewer: Dwimordene
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=8>
· 2005-06-14 01:12:44 Score: 3
A brief, in-fic analysis of Faramir's state of mind when he accepted his
father's last command, and the difference it makes to know he has someone to
return to who clearly and unambiguously loves him. It's a thin line between
Pelennor fields and any other battle, it seems, and one that Éowyn maintains
for him.

Title: As
<http://www.henneth-annun.net/challenge/chapter.cfm?STID=2370&NGID=114>
Though to Breathe Were Life · Author: mir_noldoris
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=14
4> · Books/Time: Post-Ring War: Gondor Drabble · ID: 257
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=15&form_story_filter=257>
Reviewer: Dwimordene
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=8>
· 2005-06-14 01:13:30 Score: 4
This is a tough space to write in, I think. Giving back the Gift in so late
an age involves so many more people than just Aragorn. But I like the idea
that it's not world-weariness, but a certain necessary restlessness of
spirit, that desires to know the world—and death is that last threshold, the
final lesson, and one that need not be fearful if properly approached.

Title: Butterbur
<http://www.henneth-annun.net/challenge/chapter.cfm?STID=2899&NGID=118> and
the King · Author: Eledhwen
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=26
0> · Books/Time: Post-Ring War: Vignette · ID: 261
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=15&form_story_filter=261>
Reviewer: Dwimordene
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=8>
· 2005-06-14 01:14:10 Score: 5
Another lovely story about Aragorn's return to Bree as King of the newly
resurrected Arnor. Eledhwen caught Butterbur's voice well, I thought—a bit
rambly, but fundamentally cheerful, and not without a certain eye for the
irony of having, on past occasions, put Strider the Ranger up in the stables
rather than an actual room. That Butterbur doesn't even know where Arnor is
just makes the story better—why should he? And I found the unnamed Ranger
who ended up as Aragorn's and Arwen's dinner companion a most delightful
'prop'. An enjoyable sketch.

Title: Blossoms
<http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterview.asp?sid=3523&cid=13397> · Author:
ErinRua
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=26
7> · Books/Time: Post-Ring War: General Drabble · ID: 287
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=15&form_story_filter=287>
Reviewer: Dwimordene
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=8>
· 2005-06-14 01:14:58 Score: 2
The Aragorn fan in me can always be lured to respond to something like this.
Keen are the eyes of the Elves indeed, and Aragorn's surprise is classic. A
sweet moment, nicely turned out in just one hundred words. Bravo, Erin!

Title: Farewell
<http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterview.asp?sid=1865&cid=10268> · Author:
Elana
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=51
> · Books/Time: Post-Ring War: Vignette · ID: 302
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=15&form_story_filter=302>
Reviewer: Dwimordene
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=8>
· 2005-06-14 01:15:39 Score: 2
I liked the notion that Legolas, on the very verge of sailing, is still
caught between trees and sea. Gimli's understanding, his utter sympathy and
patience, are beautifully portrayed in this short space of words.

Title: All
<http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterview.asp?sid=2929&cid=11235> Hallows'
Day · Author: Marnie
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=24
5> · Books/Time: Post-Ring War · ID: 317
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=15&form_story_filter=317>
Reviewer: Dwimordene
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=8>
· 2005-06-14 01:16:13 Score: 8
A well-crafted modern day ghost story that brings Tolkien's Elves into
historical time just long enough to make a rather Biblical exit from it, and
leave behind an extremely grateful marine. Once again, Marnie gives the sea
its due—it is no tame puddle of water in her hands; one can believe Osse is
rumbling about out there, as deadly in his strength as ever. Very aptly does
John have recourse to the kind of raw power and beauty of Biblical
archangels, who are terrifying in their splendor and whose first words to
mortals is necessarily "Be not afraid". If that goes for a couple of
houseless (or nearly houseless) Elves, it goes doubly so for the ocean.
Celeborn in this fic hasn't much of a voice, but his tireless search for his
grandfather is very touching, and although he does, it seems, save John from
a watery grave, I think it's right that he is not overly interested in him.
His attention is given to other things, and a mere mortal is barely going to
register in the face of the fulfillment of his long search for Elmo and a
passage to Valinor. A wonderfully uplifting ghost story, Marnie! I quite
enjoyed it.

Title: Turning the
<http://www.henneth-annun.net/stories/chapter.cfm?STID=968> Page · Author:
ErinRua
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=26
7> · Books/Time: Post-Ring War: Gondor · ID: 337
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=15&form_story_filter=337>
Reviewer: Dwimordene
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=8>
· 2005-06-14 01:16:55 Score: 9
"Turning the Page" goes in with "The Last Grey Ship", both of which are
about facing the inevitable with grace. This time, we have not Aragorn's,
but Éomer's last days, and a very intimate glimpse of Éomer's state of mind,
which is as one might expect it: content with the life he has lived, with
still that particular Rohirric sparkle, ready for what awaits even though
still quite grounded in the worldly. Éomer's no ascetic at the end of his
life—he's spent too much time absorbing the shocks of life in all their
varieties to be hollowed out and drifting at the end. The obvious love and
intimate friendship his last letter demonstrates towards Aragorn is
revealing of a long, well-kept relationship, and there are some lovely,
humorous touches. I particularly laughed at the line: "My son tells me the
men once said that the honor of riding with their king was only matched by
the saddle-sores thus incurred, but of late I prefer a more sedate chair."
That sounds about right for Éomer!

ErinRua is another of those writers who puts the slightly formal style of
Tolkien to good use, and still manages to get a surprising liveliness out of
the language, which her readers will doubtless appreciate.


Title: Telling the
<http://www.henneth-annun.net/stories/chapter.cfm?STID=2068> Bees · Author:
Fileg
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=10
6> · Books/Time: Post-Ring War: Shire · ID: 343
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=15&form_story_filter=343>
Reviewer: Dwimordene
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=8>
· 2005-06-14 01:17:28 Score: 4
I love the quiet feel of this story—a bit subdued in tone, but reading it, I
had a very vivid, colorful image of Bag End and the bees in their fields,
and one can practically hear them buzzing about. Sam's speech seems to
capture his voice well, and contrasts somewhat with his narrated point of
view, but the effect isn't jarring to me and allows for a richer narrative
texture. It ends hopefully, as is, I think, right. A very satisfying ficlet,
fileg.

Title: Passages <http://www.henneth-annun.net/stories/chapter.cfm?STID=3759>
· Author: Flick
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=37
> · Books/Time: Post-Ring War: Vignette · ID: 352
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=15&form_story_filter=352>
Reviewer: Dwimordene
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=8>
· 2005-06-14 01:18:05 Score: 5
For so short a story, this is wonderfully evocative, as Legolas watches his
companions succumb to death or departure, one by one (or occasionally three
at a time). One gets that sense of events rounding off, of Tolkien's world
closing to us, even as Legolas finds himself less and less rooted in
Middle-earth as his mortal friends die and pass on to whatever fate awaits
them. Gimli brings a lovely symmetry to it all: he and Legolas will be the
last, and they, like Boromir who went first, will pass by the river and on
to the sea, in pursuit of the only treasure worth having: friendship.

Title: Faint
<http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterview.asp?sid=1887&cid=13513> Hope ·
Author: Forodwaith
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=50
> · Books/Time: Post-Ring War: Vignette · ID: 357
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=15&form_story_filter=357>
Reviewer: Dwimordene
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=8>
· 2005-06-14 01:19:08 Score: 4
Another well-written drabble from Forodwaith. She neatly finds the symmetry
between her and Sam, both of them condemned to find no rest or comfort in
Middle-earth so long as the ones they love leave it ahead of them. Arwen's
prescient vision, that in spite of her hope to see Frodo and Sam happy in
the Shire, she will not see the two of them together again, seems also to
foreshadow her separation from Sam, since Sam will take ship to Valinor,
whereas she will remain in Middle-earth.

Title: Farewell
<http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterview.asp?sid=1887&cid=9416> · Author:
Forodwaith
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=50
> · Books/Time: Post-Ring War: Final Partings · ID: 362
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=15&form_story_filter=362>
Reviewer: Dwimordene
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=8>
· 2005-06-14 01:19:40 Score: 4
A very rare fanfic interaction between Middle-earth's remaining wizards.
Forodwaith deftly has Radagast turn Gandalf's own words against him to
justify remaining in Middle-earth: his charge are the plants and animals of
the world, and so long as something lives that can bear fruit, he has not
failed, he simply continues in the task appointed him. A touching moment
that makes one wish for more about the relationship among the istari.

Title: Ithilien,
<http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterview.asp?sid=1887&cid=11967> Part II ·
Author: Forodwaith
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=50
> · Books/Time: Post-Ring War: Ithilien Drabble · ID: 380
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=15&form_story_filter=380>
Reviewer: Dwimordene
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=8>
· 2005-06-14 01:20:12 Score: 2
A nice moment between the Steward and the Queen that leads to Faramir
gaining some new and immortal neighbors in Ithilien. One gets a sense that
Ithilien will be a sort of second Hollin—a way of allowing lost Eregion to
bloom again by proxy.

Title: Father
<http://www.tolkienfanfiction.com/Story_Read_Chapter.php?CHid=1126> to Son ·
Author: Azalais
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=18
7> · Books/Time: The Hobbit: Drabble · ID: 139
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=15&form_story_filter=139>
Reviewer: Nancy
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=10
5> Brooke · 2005-06-14 15:50:51 Score: 2
This is a fine drabble overshadowed by the unlikelihood created by Tolkien
and clearly illustrated here that Thror could have possibly hidden anything
on him in Dol Goldur. It's a stickler.

Title: Hands
<http://www.tolkienfanfiction.com/Story_Read_Chapter.php?CHid=1134> of a
Healer · Author: Azalais
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=18
7> · Books/Time: The Lord of The Rings: Drabble · ID: 142
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=15&form_story_filter=142>
Reviewer: Nancy
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=10
5> Brooke · 2005-06-14 15:55:06 Score: 3
I found this an excellent drabble for so many reasons - the rarely seen
pairing of Arwen and Bilbo, Arwen's quiet strength, the unspoken closeness
between Arwen and Elrond ... despite so few words you've created a rich
story of dramatic action and deep characterizations.

Title: Sulnur <http://www.theoriginalseries.com/sulnur.htm> · Author:
sulriel
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=7>
· Races/Places: Rohan: Original Characters · ID: 145
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=15&form_story_filter=145>
Reviewer: Nancy
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=10
5> Brooke · 2005-06-14 15:59:18 Score: 2
This is a wonderful characterization, hinting at a more human love but
remaining specifically true to Sulnur's nature. Excellent.

Title: Civitas <http://www.henneth-annun.net/stories/chapter.cfm?STID=4522>
Mundi · Author: Dwimordene
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=8>
· Genres: Drama (includes Angst): Drabble · ID: 56
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=15&form_story_filter=56>
Reviewer: Chathol-linn
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=23
> · 2005-06-14 20:42:26 Score: 5
It was this collection of short shorts that changed my mind about drabbles,
at least when a very good writer puts five of them together with a common
theme. Dwim writes elegantly, sparely, and conveys such an emotional punch
with each piece. My hands-down favorite was Blood Ties because of the way it
captured the tension between danger and courage. I loved the glimpse into
life in late Numenor - please pardon the lack of diacritical marks in that
word - and I thought using "the Templers" was a great touch.

Title: Hardiness <http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterlistview.asp?SID=1325>
· Author: Forodwaith
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=50
> · Books/Time: Post-Ring War: Shire · ID: 372
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=15&form_story_filter=372>
Reviewer: Dwimordene
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=8>
· 2005-06-15 22:39:39 Score: 3
A lovely, hobbity vignette, and what a nice use of the flowers to bring out
the fundamental truth of LOTR: goodness survives, and is hard to root out. I
liked the humor at the end, that it should be the lobelia that survive
Saruman and his minions.


[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]

Msg# 5099

Reviews Final as of 8/17/2005 part 15 Posted by Ainaechoiriel August 17, 2005 - 23:16:38 Topic ID# 5099
Title: A <http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterview.asp?sid=3348&cid=12756>
City of Scarlet Flowers · Author: annmarwalk
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=17
7> · Books/Time: Post-Ring War: Gondor · ID: 390
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=16&form_story_filter=390>
Reviewer: Dwimordene
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=8>
· 2005-06-15 22:40:19 Score: 2
A way of remembering the dead without being melancholy or needing recourse
to the sorts of monuments only the rich can afford—a healing gesture indeed,
and a lovely ficlet.

Title: Aragorn
<http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterview.asp?sid=3477&cid=13122> Himself
Waits for a Sign · Author: Gwynnyd
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=18
6> · Books/Time: Post-Ring War: General Drabble · ID: 392
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=16&form_story_filter=392>
Reviewer: Dwimordene
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=8>
· 2005-06-15 22:40:51 Score: 1
It's nice to see that palantir put to a good use! But even good use doesn't
always bring the news you want.

Title: Fireside
<http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterview.asp?sid=3477&cid=13133>
Reflections · Author: Gwynnyd
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=18
6> · Books/Time: Post-Ring War: Gondor Drabble · ID: 400
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=16&form_story_filter=400>
Reviewer: Dwimordene
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=8>
· 2005-06-15 22:41:22 Score: 3
I really liked this drabble for the implicit use it makes of Faramir's
claim, that he doesn't love warfare for its own sake. Neither, it appears,
does he love it for the bonds it forms among comrades, and that, to me,
speaks very highly of him while remaining true to the character Tolkien
created.

Title: The
<http://www.henneth-annun.net/challenge/chapter_view.cfm?NGID=114&STID=2370&
SPOrdinal=20> Voice of Experience · Author: Ijemanja
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=28
5> · Books/Time: Post-Ring War: Ithilien Drabble · ID: 415
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=16&form_story_filter=415>
Reviewer: Dwimordene
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=8>
· 2005-06-15 22:41:54 Score: 2
If ever there were a reason why Éowyn might refuse to let her daughter
become a shieldmaiden, this seems the right one—bitterness over being
trained to do something and then denied the right to do it.

Title: Insomnia <http://www.henneth-annun.net/stories/chapter.cfm?STID=3019>
· Author: AfterEver
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=20
2> · Books/Time: The Silmarillion: Second Age · ID: 62
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=16&form_story_filter=62>
Reviewer: Marta
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=16
> · 2005-06-15 23:46:04 Score: 3
This vignette has a spooky quality to it. Spooky might be the wrong word.
Eery, I guess. Anyway, it's moving. Very, very moving; I was immersed in the
world of the Last Alliance completely, and I felt the despair. This probably
isn't the alternative universe I would have written but it was very
interesting nonetheless.

Title: Last Hope
<http://www.henneth-annun.net/stories/chapter.cfm?STID=2296> · Author:
AfterEver
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=20
2> · Races/Places: Cross-Cultural · ID: 64
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=16&form_story_filter=64>
Reviewer: Marta
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=16
> · 2005-06-15 23:46:04 Score: 9
I really enjoyed this story. It is a topic that has always particularly
interested me, perhaps because I am particularly interested in cultural and
especially cross-cultural details. So Gilraen's adjustment to life in
Rivendell is a particularly fun read for me. And you have mastered something
that I wish more authors could: creating believable original characters,
without them overwhelming the story. They're definitely there and their
personalities have depth, but they read more like minor characters than
major ones. They are tantalizing.

I think my favourite scene, though, has to be young Estel sitting on
Elrond's throne (for lack of a better term) when he and Gilraen first arrive
in Imladris. That is so unbelievably cute! I can just imagining Estel's
smile. And later, near the end, when he asks Elrond if he needs cuddling...
*awwww*. I can see this pair developing a very close relationship all the
year, which would have of course made Aragorn's love for Arwen (which would
steal Aragorn's only daughter from him) all the more painful.

By the way- is their any basis for the alienating of the Angle from
Rivendell in the time of Aravor's son that you refer to throughout this
story? I am very interested, as I have never heard of it before.

Title: The
<http://www.tolkienfanfiction.com/Story_Read_Chapter.php?CHid=196> Flowers
of the Forest · Author: Altariel
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=18
1> · Books/Time: The Lord of The Rings: Gondor · ID: 2
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=16&form_story_filter=2>
Reviewer: Marta
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=16
> · 2005-06-15 23:46:04 Score: 2
This is a beautiful vignette, with a penetrating theme. I especially liked
the line "Culumalda, simbelmynë – flowers of Ithilien, flowers of Rohan",
and the use of Faramir's statement at Henneth Annun at the very end.

Title: Mistress <http://www.henneth-annun.net/stories/chapter.cfm?STID=635>
Gilraen · Author: AfterEver
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=20
2> · Races/Places: Cross-Cultural · ID: 65
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=16&form_story_filter=65>
Reviewer: Marta
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=16
> · 2005-06-15 23:46:04 Score: 4
Nicely told. I particularly liked Gilraen's disdain when she learned of
Elves' diminished sexual drives, and that Elrond really *didn't* desire her
as a mistress. Which of course we all knew anyway, but it was nice seeing
Gilraen discover it, and with it just how different life among the Elves
could be. I do love AfterEver's Gilraen! Probably better than any other I
have ever read, though maybe Gwynnyd's is a tie.

Title: A Light Beyond
<http://www.henneth-annun.net/stories/chapter.cfm?STID=1520> the Darkness ·
Author: Alawa
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=10
3> · Genres: Romance: Poetry · ID: 10
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=16&form_story_filter=10>
Reviewer: Marta
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=16
> · 2005-06-15 23:46:04 Score: 10
I think what I most enjoyed about these poems was the understatement of the
erotic, especially in Arathorn's sonnet. The imagery there seemed almost
courtly, ponly it was a little forward for such a model. So much romance and
especially erotica in the Lord of the Rings fandom lacks that subtle, almost
ambiguous, quality that makes it feel so much more historical. This is one
of the reasons why I love reading your work so much. Especially with the
lead couples of the Angle (Gilraen and Arathorn, Arwen and Aragorn) you have
a real knack for capturing the tension between duty and pleasure. I can see
the spirit of Aragorn's comment to Bilbo (I think) in the Hall of Fire that
often has he had to put pleasure aside.

But the poem that really took my breath away was Gilraen's villanelle. The
form is what first did it for me. I have tried to write villanelles, but it
is the one form that I have never really been able to capture, so I bow in
homage to those who have mastered it. And here Alawa clearly has. I loved in
particular the way you worked in how different citizens of the Angle
(besides Gilraen and Arathorn, obviously!) might think that the age
difference between Gilraen and Arathorn was too great. Interplaying this
with the erotica that makes it OBVIOUS that Gilraen and Arathorn don't feel
the same way was pure genius.

How could they be improved? There were a few places where, to make it scan,
I had to delete a syllable of a word. Pow'r as opposed to power, that sort
of thing. It would have been easier on a first reading to have these
scanned-over syllables marked (like I did above with pow'r/power). But this
is really a minor criticism in otherwise brilliant love poems. The softer
side of my heart is still demanding more.

Title: Watching
<http://www.henneth-annun.net/stories/chapter.cfm?STID=1677> Thoughts ·
Author: Alawa
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=10
3> · Genres: Romance: Poetry · ID: 11
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=16&form_story_filter=11>
Reviewer: Marta
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=16
> · 2005-06-15 23:46:04 Score: 3
Another set of poems that is nice to read. I like how you captured Aragorn's
and Arwen's love in a period that few seem to touch on, because there isn't
much (canonically) to touch on. But these waiting years are in many ways the
most interesting. Well done.

Title: Dandelion
<http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterview.asp?sid=1694&cid=7027> Clocks ·
Author: Alawa
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=10
3> · Books/Time: Post-Ring War: Gondor Drabble · ID: 17
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=16&form_story_filter=17>
Reviewer: Marta
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=16
> · 2005-06-15 23:46:04 Score: 4
I was not aware of the folklore idea of dandelions being used to "tell time"
until Tanaqui wrote a writers' circle piece several months ago where she
also used the concept. Maybe it's a British, or at least non-American,
concept? It's an interesting one, and I think you used it to good effect
here. Your use of imagery was also strong, and you did a good job of
creating a plausible post-War of the Ring moment in so few words; none were
wasted.

Title: Idle Leaves
<http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterlistview.asp?SID=3344> · Author: Alawa
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=10
3> · Races/Places: Men: Poetry · ID: 68
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=16&form_story_filter=68>
Reviewer: Marta
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=16
> · 2005-06-15 23:46:04 Score: 3
I never imagined one of Tolkien's more heroic types writing freeverse; for
some reason it seems more fitting coming from the pen of Halbarad than
Aragorn. However, you did a fantastic job of working in so many of the hints
we get from canon. This was a very enjoyable read.

Title: Love's Labours
<http://henneth-annun.net/stories/chapter.cfm?STID=300> · Author: Alawa
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=10
3> · Genres: Drama (includes Angst) · ID: 71
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=16&form_story_filter=71>
Reviewer: Marta
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=16
> · 2005-06-15 23:46:04 Score: 2
These vignettes were well-conceived and masterfully executed. I particularly
liked Arathorn's remembrances of his courting of Gilraene, and the impact of
the weight of being Isildur's heirs.

Title: One Day <http://www.henneth-annun.net/stories/chapter.cfm?STID=2019>
· Author: Alawa
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=10
3> · Books/Time: The Lord of The Rings: Poetry · ID: 72
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=16&form_story_filter=72>
Reviewer: Marta
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=16
> · 2005-06-15 23:46:04 Score: 1
This is an interesting poem -- and on a topic I never would have thought to
do myself.

Title: On
<http://www.henneth-annun.net/challenge/chapter.cfm?STID=317&NGID=2> His
Stewardship · Author: Alawa
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=10
3> · Races/Places: Gondor: Poetry · ID: 73
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=16&form_story_filter=73>
Reviewer: Marta
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=16
> · 2005-06-15 23:46:04 Score: 1
This poem is spooky. Beautiful, vivid, but also spooky. I think the irony
makes it even better; thanks for the good read.

Title: On
<http://www.henneth-annun.net/challenge/chapter.cfm?STID=317&NGID=2> the
Death of His Wife · Author: Alawa
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=10
3> · Races/Places: Gondor: Poetry · ID: 74
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=16&form_story_filter=74>
Reviewer: Marta
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=16
> · 2005-06-15 23:46:04 Score: 2
The first time I read this I wondered what was meant by the first line,
"Now, she is passed and I am yours alone;". Now I think I know, but I don't
want to spoil it for other people. Anyway, this is another nice sonnet. A
very worthwhile read.

Title: Travellers'
<http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterlistview.asp?SID=2523> Tales · Author:
Alawa
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=10
3> · Books/Time: The Hobbit · ID: 75
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=16&form_story_filter=75>
Reviewer: Marta
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=16
> · 2005-06-15 23:46:04 Score: 6
When I think of Bilbo, I definitely imagine him in "The Hobbit", which for
me is a pretty light image. The pernacious hobbit who "good morning"ed
Gandalf the Grey, or who worried about whether Thorin and his dwarves would
eat all of his seed cake, leaving none for himself. I'm sure Bilbo had his
grumpier moments, but somehow, that's not the image I am left with. However,
the Bilbo in this short piece was a bit irritated and more than a little
gloomy. If I had to describe him in a phrase, it would be "cabin fever". You
captured this side of his personality very niceless, and you made me
believe. All in all a capturing read, if not exactly a fun one.

Title: Gríma's
<http://www.henneth-annun.net/challenge/chapter.cfm?STID=1287&NGID=51>
Giftgiving · Author: Alawa
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=10
3> · Races/Places: Men: Poetry · ID: 502
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=16&form_story_filter=502>
Reviewer: Marta
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=16
> · 2005-06-15 23:46:04 Score: 2
I never imagined Grima writing any kind of poetry, let alone haikus. Yet
somehow this didn't seem out-of-character for Wormtongue. Good job.

Title: A Lullaby for
<http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterlistview.asp?SID=1154> the Longest
Night · Author: Alawa
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=10
3> · Races/Places: Men: Poetry · ID: 503
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=16&form_story_filter=503>
Reviewer: Marta
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=16
> · 2005-06-15 23:46:04 Score: 1
This is a nice poem, combining both interesting new year customs and a
strong sense of custom.

Title: The
<http://www.ofelvesandmen.com/Stories/A/Alex/LOTR/I_P/P/PathsOfTheDead.htm>
Paths of the Dead · Author: alex_cat_45
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=57
> · Books/Time: Gap-Filler: Grey Company · ID: 999
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=16&form_story_filter=999>
Reviewer: Marta
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=16
> · 2005-06-15 23:46:04 Score: 4
I generally imagine things from alternate perspectives, but this is one that
even I never imagined. And you made it very real, very three-dimensional. It
was spooky, which fit the narrator, but it was also touching, especially
there towards the end.

I was confused toward the end, though. In bookverse the Dead don't actually
sail up the Anduin. At least, I don't think it is. If it _is_ movieverse, it
works fine as such, but I would have preferred to have been warned upfront.

Title: A Proper
<http://www.henneth-annun.net/stories/chapter.cfm?STID=3896> Course of
Action · Author: Aliana
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=20
8> · Genres: Humor · ID: 78
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=16&form_story_filter=78>
Reviewer: Marta
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=16
> · 2005-06-15 23:46:04 Score: 7
"And if anyone had mastered the “grim foreboding” expression, it was surely
Aragorn, Gimli thought" As soon as I read this line (maybe even before!) I
knew I was going to enjoy this piece, and I wasn't disappointed. Legolas and
Gimli were a perfect comic pair, and Gimli's raw comedy worked especially
well. Minor characters like Halbarad and the Sons of Elrond also worked very
well. And the image of Eowyn seducing Denethor, who is not only *so* not her
type but also half a century older... well, let's just say I started
chuckling early and didn't stop throughout. Of course we know what happens
canonically (which just makes gimli's last line all the more perfect), but
that doesn't mean this conversation didn't happen. I had never thought about
it before, but I'm sure it probably did at some point. Nice use of the humor
inherent in book-canon, which is so rarely done effectively.

Title: Object
<http://henneth-annun.net/stories/chapter_view.cfm?STID=4015&SPOrdinal=1>
Lessons · Author: Aliana
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=20
8> · Books/Time: Post-Ring War: Gap-Filler · ID: 586
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=16&form_story_filter=586>
Reviewer: Marta
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=16
> · 2005-06-15 23:46:04 Score: 10
In her story "A Proper Course of Action" I admired Aliana's Eowyn for her
spunk. She was perfect as a comic figure, and I really enjoyed her in that
role. But in the end comedy is not my favourite genre, and this story shows
that Aliana is more than capable of writing Eowyn in a more serious role. I
loved how Eowyn still had a hint of Dernhelm in her. I think there always
will be (and here I'm sure I reveal myself as more of an essentialist than
an existentialist) because I don't think those personality traits that
Tolkien labelled as Dernhelm were unique to that situation, and I don't
think they would disappear after she is "tamed" in the Houses of Healing
sequence with Faramir.

But even more than that I think you really, REALLY nailed Frodo's character.
The comparison with Merry was just too perfect, and exactly how I see those
two. The ring of course played a role, but I think some of that is inherent
in their characters. Merry is not only much younger than Frodo but he is
also a Brandybuck, which I think would make him more adventurous and less
serious. He could be responsible when he needed to but would prefer to let
others take the lead in that area.

Anyway, you captured all of this very well in a short space. The omniscient
style to the very beginning and end was not quite to my liking, but I
suppose that is probably my personal preference, and not any fault of the
author's.

Title: To Labor and
<http://www.henneth-annun.net/stories/chapter.cfm?STID=4557> To Wait ·
Author: Aliana
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=20
8> · Races/Places: Gondor: Houses of Healing · ID: 79
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=16&form_story_filter=79>
Reviewer: Marta
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=16
> · 2005-06-15 23:46:04 Score: 6
I love pieces centring around original characters because they provide such
a novel glimpse into Middle-earth. There's only so much you can do with
canon characters, and OCs often provide a more blue-collar perspective. This
piece offered many characters that seemed very suited to their positions,
and you captured them all so nicely. The story of the herbist especially
touched me, because you did such a fantastic job of capturing what it would
be like to be deprived of your sight, but they were all very good. Reading
this story is what led me to "Fallen", and I never regretted taking the time
to read either of these pieces.

Title: Fallen <http://tolkienfanfiction.com/Story_Read_Head.php?STid=287> ·
Author: Aliana
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=20
8> · Books/Time: The Lord of The Rings: Incomplete · ID: 212
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=16&form_story_filter=212>
Reviewer: Marta
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=16
> · 2005-06-15 23:46:04 Score: 8
It amazes me when an author can create a world that is almost entirely
original, but yet feels very well integrated with canon. Aliana does that
here. We see glimpses of the Houses of Healing in _The Return of the King_,
of course, but our exposure is more or less limited to Ioreth and the
herb-master. Canon characters skirt along the edges of this story, but the
focus stays firmly on our cast of original characters -- Valacar, Elloth,
Beren, Laeron, and the others

There were some minor things that caused me confusion. For example, the Army
of the Dead seems to have reached Minas Tirith (making this story
movie!verse), but Elrohir and Elladan heal the Gondorians (which would
situate the tale in book!verse). However, there is enough redeeming
qualities to make me forget this discrepancy. I think my favourite
characteristic was how the author developed a sort of version of feminism,
about the place of women in a less domestic environment like the Houses of
Healing. I look forward to seeing where this story goes.


Title: Gloria Mundi <http://www.fanfiction.net/s/2149186/1/> · Author:
Altariel
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=18
1> · Genres: Drama (includes Angst): Drabble · ID: 38
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=16&form_story_filter=38>
Reviewer: Marta
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=16
> · 2005-06-15 23:46:04 Score: 2
Each of these drabbles is very interesting. They are on different themes,
but somehow feel connected; they complement each other. I particularly liked
the one about Malbeth, and the talk about blind vs. dumb.


[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]

Msg# 5100

Re: Daw's story is complete.... Posted by Elena Tiriel August 17, 2005 - 23:20:36 Topic ID# 5081
Thanks, Ainae!

- Barbara

On 8/17/05, Ainaechoiriel <mefaadmin@earthlink.net> wrote:
> Okay, thanks. I've moved it to Drama: Mirkwood
>
> --Ainaechoiriel
> MEFA Admin and Founder
>
> "This evil cannot be concealed by the power of the Elves," Elrond said, "for
> it is Windows-compatible, and freeware at that." --H.F.
>
> http://gabrielle.sytes.net/mefa The Middle-Earth Fanfiction Awards
>
> Blog: http://www.ainaechoiriel.blogspot.com
>
>
>
> > -----Original Message-----
> > From: MEFAwards@yahoogroups.com
> > [mailto:MEFAwards@yahoogroups.com] On Behalf Of Elena Tiriel
> > Sent: Wednesday, August 17, 2005 9:59 PM
> > To: MEFA Awards
> > Subject: [MEFAwards] Daw's story is complete....
> >
> > HI everyone,
> >
> > I just noticed that Daw the Minstrel's story, "A Spring of Joy" (#
> > 1320) is still in the Incomplete:Novella group. It is
> > complete (and probably has been since shortly after I
> > nominated it.... sorry that I didn't notice before!)
> >
> > - Barbara
> >
> >
> > ------------------------ Yahoo! Groups Sponsor
> > --------------------~--> <font face=arial size=-1><a
> > href="http://us.ard.yahoo.com/SIG=12h750m0v/M=362335.6886444.7
> 839734.2575449/D=groups/S=1705213040:TM/Y=YAHOO/EXP=1124341143/A=2894362/R=0
> /SIG=> 138c78jl6/*http://www.networkforgood.org/topics/arts_culture/?
> > source=YAHOO&cmpgn=GRP&RTP=http://groups.yahoo.com/">What
> > would our lives be like without music, dance, and
> > theater?Donate or volunteer in the arts today at Network for
> > Good</a>.</font>
> > --------------------------------------------------------------
> > ------~->
> >
> >
> > Yahoo! Groups Links
> >
> >
> >
> >
> >
> >
> >
>
>
>
>
>
>
> Yahoo! Groups Links
>
>
>
>
>
>
>

Msg# 5101

Reviews Final as of 8/17/2005 part 16 Posted by Ainaechoiriel August 17, 2005 - 23:20:37 Topic ID# 5101
Title: The Machine That Changed the
<http://www.fanfiction.net/s/1948948/1/> World · Author: Altariel
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=18
1> · Genres: Drama (includes Angst): Fourth Age · ID: 80
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=17&form_story_filter=80>
Reviewer: Marta
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=16
> · 2005-06-15 23:46:04 Score: 5
This certainly is an imaginative tale. My reading of Tolkien's Gondor is
that he sees it as being more or less antiquity/early mediaeval, so I'm not
sure he envisioned them developing this kind of technology. (It is my
understanding that the printing press did not arise in Europe until a fair
bit later, though the technology was certainly developed in other parts of
the world.) I can see the Elves or perhaps the hobbits (if they had more
widespread literacy) developing the technology more easily. Regardless, it's
a fascinating concept, and Elphir's fear of the results were well handled.

Title: Moss and
<http://www.tolkienfanfiction.com/Story_Read_Head.php?STid=116> Stone ·
Author: Altariel
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=18
1> · Books/Time: Post-Ring War: Final Partings · ID: 560
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=17&form_story_filter=560>
Reviewer: Marta
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=16
> · 2005-06-15 23:46:04 Score: 2
Another interesting nook of canon that I had never thought that much about.
It was interesting to read, none the less, and I think you really nailed
Bombadil's character.

Title: Enmities
<http://www.henneth-annun.net/challenge/chapter.cfm?STID=4139&NGID=175> ·
Author: AmandaK
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=20
9> · Races/Places: Villains: Orcs · ID: 561
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=17&form_story_filter=561>
Reviewer: Marta
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=16
> · 2005-06-15 23:46:04 Score: 7
I have to admit, this confused me a little at first. Having Drukh (I think I
got that name right -- the protagonist) refer to her children as pups made
me think at first it was some animal, probably a warg. However, later in the
piece you made it clear this was an Orc of Mordor. I am not sure how I would
make the beginning clearer, but if you are interested in editing that might
be something to consider.

Beyond that, it was a very nice read, if reading about the denizens of
Mordor can ever be considered "nice". A lot of this felt like the
conversation overheard by Sam in (I think) "The Choices of Master Samwise",
between the two orcs. You know, the one where they discuss their desires for
the future. This piece offered insight into a culture we really don't see
much of in canon, and made them understandable without being much less
orcsy.


Title: Swan
<http://www.henneth-annun.net/challenge/chapter.cfm?STID=4204&NGID=286>
Flight · Author: AmandaK
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=20
9> · Genres: Drama (includes Angst): Gondor · ID: 84
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=17&form_story_filter=84>
Reviewer: Marta
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=16
> · 2005-06-15 23:46:04 Score: 5
Ah, this one brings back memories for me! I remember a stone sculpture of an
owl that a cousin put in an old tree beside her house, where real owls
lived. Of course the wind knocked it down and it fell to a nook in the
roof... and yes, we were just as foolish in our efforts to get it back. Of
course Boromir would act that way, especially for Faramir's toys. Well done.
I also liked how you gave Imrahil's perspective of the council scene at the
beginning -- it avoided the easy way to get across Denethor's panic, and was
doubly effective for tht. Well done on all of it. :-)

Title: Cold <http://www.henneth-annun.net/stories/chapter.cfm?STID=3414>
Memories · Author: AmandaK
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=20
9> · Races/Places: Gondor: Vignette · ID: 82
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=17&form_story_filter=82>
Reviewer: Marta
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=16
> · 2005-06-15 23:46:04 Score: 2
This is a cute moment, but unlike many young-Boromir-and-Faramir stories,
you can see hints of the men these two children will become. And it was very
refreshing to see post-Finduilas Denethor as something other than an abusive
father.


Title: The Captain's
<http://www.henneth-annun.net/stories/chapter.cfm?STID=3210> Last Charge ·
Author: AmandaK
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=20
9> · Books/Time: Gap-Filler: War of the Ring · ID: 81
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=17&form_story_filter=81>
Reviewer: Marta
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=16
> · 2005-06-15 23:46:04 Score: 5
This is a touching rendition of a touching moment. You took a moment that
felt movieverse, yet managed to instill some of Faramir's sense of duty and
his moral fortitude. As Isabeau had Heth say in "Captain, My Captain", more
should be said of the battle for the causeway forts. She was right; they are
so poignant and emotion-filled and dramatic, yet I guess because Faramir is
the only real canon character that appears, there's nowhere near enough
written about the attempt to hold (or recapture) them. Thank you for this
moment.

Title: Jerusalem
<http://www.henneth-annun.net/stories/chapter.cfm?STID=1748> · Author:
Amarie
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=21
1> · Genres: Crossovers · ID: 658
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=17&form_story_filter=658>
Reviewer: Marta
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=16
> · 2005-06-15 23:46:04 Score: 8
I love stories that connect Middle-earth with our modern times (or at least
those times recorded in actual "history"), and this is one of the best such
stories I have read. It seems that having Elves or other immortals
experience historical figures is one of the most natural ways to do this.

There were a few historical inaccuracies that bothered me slightly. For
example, the fact that the Hebrews call themselves Jews. I think this is a
later term? But perhaps I am wrong, and am being slightly bothered for
nothing. Also, I was unclear why an Elf should think of the kings of NUMENOR
as being majestic? Depending on who exactly the author envisions this elf to
be, surely an elven kingdom like Gondolin or Doriath would be more
appropriate?

That's another thing I liked so much about this story. You never really
specify exactly who the elf in question is. I know from what other people
have said that some assumed it was (I think) Maglor. Or Maedhros? I always
get those two confused. For some reason I thought it was Celeborn, but as
the exact identity is open-ended, it gives the reader even more scope to
imagine things.

Title: His Last
<http://www.henneth-annun.net/stories/chapter.cfm?STID=1713> Words · Author:
Amarie
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=21
1> · Books/Time: The Lord of The Rings · ID: 85
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=17&form_story_filter=85>
Reviewer: Marta
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=16
> · 2005-06-15 23:46:04 Score: 4
This piece is frightening in its depth, and I don't think I have ever read a
piece that even tried to capture Boromir's madness. Let alone succeeded.
This piece does both, and with an awe-inspiring brevity. It almost felt as
if the author was channeling Boromir. And because I am shameless, I'll ask
here if the author ever considered writing a sequel, in which Faramir
receives one or both of these letters. *evil grin*

Title: The Horn-Cry
<http://www.henneth-annun.net/stories/chapter.cfm?STID=1816> of Buckland ·
Author: Lulleny
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=30
2> · Books/Time: Post-Ring War: Shire · ID: 467
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=17&form_story_filter=467>
Reviewer: Dwimordene
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=8>
· 2005-06-16 00:50:17 Score: 8
This is a very well-crafted little tale that shows the long-lingering
effects of the war on even the most cheerful of hobbits. It is a quite
striking characteristic of hobbits that they seem to keep matters
light—Merry's line in "Houses of Healing", that hobbits tend to make light
of things, and so are robbed of speech when more serious matters need to be
discussed comes very much to mind when reading this fic, as does Tolkien's
narrative voice, drawing attention to the apparent good cheer of Merry and
Pippin when they were wandering lost by the river in Fangorn. But that
lightness doesn't mean there isn't darkness, or that hobbits are always
robbed of words in the face of griefs. The pain of memory, and of the real
contrast between the peace they have now and the price they have paid for it
is made starkly apparent. Sometimes the contrast becomes too much to bear,
but Merry and Pippin have grown up and grown wise in their journeys as well,
and learned that they can be grateful for that very difference. They don't
need the grief to enjoy what's good, but neither do they permit grief to
overwhelm the good. Well done, Lulleny!

Title: As the
<http://www.tolkienfanfiction.com/Story_Read_Head.php?STid=309> Magnet Finds
Iron · Author: Nessime
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=17
> · Books/Time: Post-Ring War · ID: 491
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=17&form_story_filter=491>
Reviewer: Dwimordene
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=8>
· 2005-06-16 00:51:12 Score: 7
A very poignant, but ultimately uplifting story. The survivors of Helm's
Deep, and the poor, burned-out lands around it, are given their due for
toughness, courage, and compassion. Those who are familiar with Nessime's
"If Ever Two Were One" will doubtless get more from it than those who are
not, but even for those who are not, it's a lovely glimpse into the lives of
Westfolders, who overcame the losses suffered during Saruman's invasion only
to sacrifice sons and husbands to Pelennor and the last battle before the
Black Gates. But even amid misfortune, they find in their ties to each other
reason enough to celebrate, and not to mind overmuch the scars of war, on
either bodies or land. It's all a matter of perspective, and an apocalyptic
war tends to focus one nicely on what matters most: family and friends.

Title: Guarding the
<http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterlistview.asp?SID=88> Shire · Author:
Shirebound
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=31
5> · Books/Time: Post-Ring War: Gap-Filler · ID: 513
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=17&form_story_filter=513>
Reviewer: Dwimordene
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=8>
· 2005-06-16 00:51:49 Score: 4
A nice little exploration of the Rangers' long watch on the Shire that
unpacks a bit more Gandalf's motivations. I'm always in favor of giving the
Rangers of Eriador their due for the long labors they undertook, and
Shirebound brings out nicely the sense of isolation they felt from those
they were guarding. Not that they begrudged in any overt manner their work,
but just hearing a hobbit recognize what they had done all those years made
a very real difference for them.

Title: The
<http://www.henneth-annun.net/challenge/chapter_view.cfm?NGID=185&STID=3473&
SPOrdinal=1> Greater Gift · Author: Tanaqui
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=40
> · Books/Time: Post-Ring War: General Drabble · ID: 540
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=17&form_story_filter=540>
Reviewer: Dwimordene
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=8>
· 2005-06-16 00:52:42 Score: 3
Very nicely written drabble—I love those last lines in particular, how they
join together a choice of gifts that could not have been offered
independently of each other. Thus temptation becomes also the opportunity
for transcendence and healing. A dangerous offer, but ultimately a means to
a greater end. Good job bringing that out, Tanaqui!

Title: A <http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterview.asp?sid=3484&cid=13193>
Refuge for the Weary · Author: Tanaqui
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=40
> · Books/Time: Post-Ring War: Gondor Drabble · ID: 547
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=17&form_story_filter=547>
Reviewer: Dwimordene
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=8>
· 2005-06-16 00:53:25 Score: 1
Here, Tanaqui neatly puts Faramir and Elrond on a level where lost brothers
are concerned. Well done.

Title: Moss and
<http://www.tolkienfanfiction.com/Story_Read_Head.php?STid=116> Stone ·
Author: Altariel
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=18
1> · Books/Time: Post-Ring War: Final Partings · ID: 560
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=17&form_story_filter=560>
Reviewer: Dwimordene
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=8>
· 2005-06-16 00:54:25 Score: 5
I'm not normally a fan of Tom Bombadil, if only because I can't bear the
poetry, but as a tying up of loose ends, this is a nice little vignette. I
did love the foxes, and Tom's general disinterest in the world beyond his
borders takes on a different cast as he allies himself with the longer
cycles of the living world. And one gets the sense that Gandalf, too, needs
looking after, and that Bombadil provides that, in his own, inimitable
way—giving Gandalf permission, even orders, to go home at last.

Title: Bare Feet and
<http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterlistview.asp?SID=2945> Beer · Author:
Gwynnyd
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=18
6> · Books/Time: Post-Ring War: Gondor · ID: 571
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=17&form_story_filter=571>
Reviewer: Dwimordene
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=8>
· 2005-06-16 00:56:04 Score: 5
I enjoyed this look at the beginning of a friendship between Faramir and
Aragorn, as opposed to of Steward and King. I had rather wondered what
Faramir knew or thought of Aragorn's prior service in Gondor, that he would
be quite so concerned about the state of his king's knowledge; the later
revelation made sense of that, and allowed a certain clearing of the air
between them, and a reassessement of what their relationship is going to be
like on levels both personal and political.

Title: Garden
<http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterview.asp?sid=3477&cid=13134> Secrets ·
Author: Gwynnyd
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=18
6> · Books/Time: Post-Ring War: Ithilien Drabble · ID: 573
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=17&form_story_filter=573>
Reviewer: Dwimordene
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=8>
· 2005-06-16 00:56:40 Score: 3
You can take the girl out of the army, but you can't take the army out of
the girl. Not if you want your petunias to flourish, apparently. I always
suspected Éowyn couldn't give up her swordwork that easily, and here we see
a rather deadly art in the service of life, if in a very different manner
than usual. Nicely done!

Title: Object
<http://henneth-annun.net/stories/chapter_view.cfm?STID=4015&SPOrdinal=1>
Lessons · Author: Aliana
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=20
8> · Books/Time: Post-Ring War: Gap-Filler · ID: 586
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=17&form_story_filter=586>
Reviewer: Dwimordene
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=8>
· 2005-06-16 00:57:25 Score: 8
Ah, very well done! We usually see the fading of Middle-earth from an elvish
perspective; but here we see it played out in this short conversation
between Frodo and Éowyn. I particularly appreciate Aliana's bringing out the
fact that with the worst of evils, the grandest of goods is also lost, and
that for Éowyn, this means that that thread of Dernhelm within her will grow
ever more unsatisfying. For the great deeds of the next Age will one and all
have a certain pettiness to them—they will come in the service of politics,
of ordinary, if messy and tragic, failures among Men, not from the absolute
opposition of all that is good against the very incarnation of evil. Thus
the Ring itself serves as the passing point between two worlds: on the one
hand, it was the product of a higher power in all its perversion, that bent
such power into an innocuous seeming Ring; on the other hand, the very
unassuming, mundane form it took heralds the sort of mundane, banal evils
that Éowyn will face in the new Age. An object lesson, indeed.

Title: Faithful
<http://www.henneth-annun.net/challenge/chapter.cfm?STID=3126&NGID=129> Star
· Author: Tiana
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=33
4> Luthien · Books/Time: Post-Ring War: Gondor · ID: 593
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=17&form_story_filter=593>
Reviewer: Dwimordene
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=8>
· 2005-06-16 00:58:43 Score: 4
I really enjoyed watching Faramir and Éomer wait for Elboron's birth. I
don't know whether it's that they truly are written well and with a very
sympathetic, yet humorous eye, or whether it's the basic vengeance instinct
at work here: women labor, let the men at least suffer a little!, but in any
event, the story definitely got a smile out of me, not least because of the
priceless Ioreth-Éomer interaction.

Title: Who Will
<http://www.henneth-annun.net/stories/chapter.cfm?STID=4049> Care? · Author:
faramir_boromir
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=34
0> · Books/Time: Post-Ring War: Gondor · ID: 612
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=17&form_story_filter=612>
Reviewer: Dwimordene
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=8>
· 2005-06-16 00:59:23 Score: 4
A nice little vignette, this, and one that illustrates that often muted
irrepressibility of Faramir, or perhaps his resilience. Despite the
circumstances, he can still find a reason to persevere, and to go on with
the tasks of living, including cleaning up after the dead. And while pride
might come first in the list of reasons to clean house in the face of
apocalypse, it's duty that ends it, and that brings a smile.

Title: The Masters of Buckland
<http://www.scribeoz.com/fanfic/story.php?no=1591> Have Always Been Romantic
· Author: Saoirse
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=26
8> · Books/Time: Post-Ring War: Shire · ID: 624
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=17&form_story_filter=624>
Reviewer: Dwimordene
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=8>
· 2005-06-16 01:00:20 Score: 2
A sweet little vignette, with just that touch of chaos that comes of
breaking in one's new home. How nice to find generations' worth of blessings
on the project and Merry and Estella's life to come.

Title: I Will Know <http://www.lotrfanfiction.com/viewstory.php?sid=4577>
Suffering · Author: Andy
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=36
4> Longwood · Books/Time: Post-Ring War: Aman · ID: 704
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=17&form_story_filter=704>
Reviewer: Dwimordene
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=8>
· 2005-06-16 01:01:01 Score: 2
Interesting to see the differences among the Elves in Valinor, and how
mortality brings out the burden that sheer innocence can be.

Title: Sunstar
<http://www.west-of-the-moon.net/servlet/ReadGenStory?storyID=138> ·
Author: illyria-pffyffin
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=36
3> · Books/Time: Post-Ring War: Final Partings · ID: 705
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=17&form_story_filter=705>
Reviewer: Dwimordene
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=8>
· 2005-06-16 01:01:40 Score: 2
I think what really made this story for me was the epilogue. That shift in
view rounds the story out, and makes us realize that Sam is really gone,
leaving a gap in the lives of his loved ones. That makes that last flower
the more precious.

Title: Good
<http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterview.asp?sid=3523&cid=13397> Stone ·
Author: ErinRua
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=26
7> · Books/Time: Post-Ring War: Gondor Drabble · ID: 721
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=17&form_story_filter=721>
Reviewer: Dwimordene
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=8>
· 2005-06-17 18:26:07 Score: 2
Sweet resolution to Legolas' and Gimli's plans. Their effort to make garden
and statuary compliment each other ties it up nicely.

Title: One Day in
<http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterlistview.asp?SID=1262> Ithilien ·
Author: jen_loves_elves
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=52
> · Books/Time: Post-Ring War · ID: 744
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=17&form_story_filter=744>
Reviewer: Dwimordene
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=8>
· 2005-06-17 22:08:49 Score: 2
Quite amusing—I've seen that conversation before, but it hardly ever ended
so well... A humorous short that made me laugh.

Title: By All
<http://www.livejournal.com/users/talechallenge06/5053.html#cutid1> The
Signs · Author: Tialys
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=23
0> · Books/Time: Post-Ring War · ID: 757
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=17&form_story_filter=757>
Reviewer: Dwimordene
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=8>
· 2005-06-17 22:10:12 Score: 1
An interesting little interlude. I particularly liked the last paragraph,
for the use it made of the rhyme Frodo sang.


[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]

Msg# 5102

Reviews Final as of 8/17/2005 part 17 Posted by Ainaechoiriel August 17, 2005 - 23:20:59 Topic ID# 5102
Title: March Frost <http://www.scribeoz.com/fanfic/story.php?no=1574> ·
Author: SilverMoonLady
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=34
3> · Books/Time: Post-Ring War · ID: 769
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=18&form_story_filter=769>
Reviewer: Dwimordene
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=8>
· 2005-06-17 22:11:38 Score: 2
Nice vignette that gives a wife's eye view of the scars the war has left
even on the most cheerful of hobbits. March frost, indeed.

Title: Light On
<http://www.tolkienfanfiction.com/Story_Read_Head.php?STid=270> the Way ·
Author: Larner
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=24
2> · Books/Time: Post-Ring War: Romance · ID: 794
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=18&form_story_filter=794>
Reviewer: Dwimordene
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=8>
· 2005-06-17 22:14:13 Score: 9
This was a very satisfying story for me, as it takes that very difficult,
painful parting in the Appendices and really does something with it that
makes sense of how quickly Arwen faded. At the same time, it's ultimately a
very hopeful look at death and loss. The Gift of Ilúvatar shows up clearly
as a gift, here, as the author intended. This is not to say that the grief,
and particularly Arwen's, is underwritten, but the view from the Uttermost
West, and from the perspective of the dying and the dead, keeps the sadness
firmly within the bounds of a far greater joy, and the dignity of the
characters of course does much to enhance that sense. Even the fading of
Middle-earth, which we see in the death of the niphredil and elanor flowers,
and in the decay of Lothlórien, is kept within that perspective. The light
is, in a sense, going out, but having seen the individual spirits of the
world make their way home to a greater glory, one gets the sense that even
the loss of the world itself will be a transition to something else. That
seems very much in keeping with Ilúvatar's words to Melkor in the
Silmarillion. Aragorn and Arwen fans should quite enjoy this, and it was
nice to see Eldarion carry a significant part of the story. In fact, this is
actually a nicely written ensemble piece, it's just a different ensemble
than usual!

Title: Memory
<http://www.livejournal.com/users/talechallenge03/8879.html#cutid1> of Ents
· Author: Rabidsamfan
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=38
0> · Books/Time: Post-Ring War: Friendship · ID: 800
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=18&form_story_filter=800>
Reviewer: Dwimordene
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=8>
· 2005-06-17 22:14:49 Score: 5
Rabidsamfan does an excellent job catching the hobbits' voices here, and
this visit to the Old Forest, intended to help with the restoration of the
Shire, is very well sketched. The banter and the memories all flow nicely,
with Sam providing a contrast to Merry and Pippin: as usualy, Sam is more
grounded, less comfortable with the foreign and tends to fasten on its eerie
aspects, holding onto them when others might let them go. And that
counterpoint of his pays off in the end, as an unseen denizen of the Old
Forest watches the hobbits leave. Nicely done!

Title: Stealth
<http://www.livejournal.com/users/talechallenge06/10128.html#cutid1> and
Grace · Author: Anastasia
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=38
5> · Books/Time: Post-Ring War: Gondor · ID: 802
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=18&form_story_filter=802>
Reviewer: Dwimordene
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=8>
· 2005-06-17 22:16:01 Score: 1
Boy do I ever recognize this dance scenario! A cute story; it made me laugh.

Title: At Last <http://www.livejournal.com/users/maripo5a/35483.html#cutid1>
· Author: Mariposa
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=27
0> · Books/Time: Post-Ring War: Shire · ID: 808
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=18&form_story_filter=808>
Reviewer: Dwimordene
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=8>
· 2005-06-17 22:16:44 Score: 2
Nice parallelism between the two drabbles, each hobbit released to the tears
or laughter that had been lurking by a father's welcome home.

Title: Nightly <http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterlistview.asp?SID=3382>
Noises · Author: Pipwise
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=38
7> Brandygin · Books/Time: Post-Ring War: Friendship · ID: 827
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=18&form_story_filter=827>
Reviewer: Dwimordene
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=8>
· 2005-06-17 22:17:30 Score: 3
Lovely to see the Old Forest and Old Man Willow get their due, and be fitted
into the general pattern of adjustment that the hobbits have to go through.
Crickhollow will never be quite the same, and even old, resurgent memories
are changed by the perspective of hindsight. The writing style was very
crisp, which I enjoyed.

Title: Kingly <http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterlistview.asp?SID=2310>
Gifts · Author: Dreamflower
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=11
5> · Books/Time: Post-Ring War: Friendship · ID: 831
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=18&form_story_filter=831>
Reviewer: Dwimordene
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=8>
· 2005-06-17 22:18:16 Score: 3
A nice gapfiller, even if I have a particular qualm with Aragorn's
characterization. But it's just in one place, and it was fun to see how
everything spun out around the hobbits as they rested and recovered. I
particularly liked Legolas' gifts in the end—something personal and more in
the line of memory than any physical object.

Title: Truth and
<http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterlistview.asp?SID=2794> Consequences ·
Author: Mariposa
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=27
0> · Books/Time: Post-Ring War: Shire · ID: 837
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=18&form_story_filter=837>
Reviewer: Dwimordene
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=8>
· 2005-06-17 22:19:50 Score: 10
I quite enjoyed this story. There's always something very odd in hearing
others talk about you, and to find the most difficult, trying, and at least
in some parts joyful, times and deeds, to say nothing of intimate
friendships, of your life written down by people who had never known you,
and then to read those accounts, would be very difficult. And safely
ensconced in the restored Shire, well away from court life and the Mordor
front, Merry, Pippin, and Sam would have little reason to expect such
treatment. Even when the account is favorable, it never quite rings true,
whether it speaks of good or evil deeds. And when the historian is a poor
historian, then further problems arise, which Faramir Took nicely sums up as
follows:

"And also some of these books are just so ugly--written by people who
seemingly could have achieved greater deeds with ease, and have all the time
under the stars to poke holes in the Fellowship."

In truth, the basic circumstances of the Fellowship historians are likely
the same, whether they write beautiful or ugly books. No doubt that is part
of the sense of violation or intrusion—they weren't there, and whether for
good or ill, they do play in a sense with someone else's life in the writing
of it. Pippin and Merry, I thought, handled the whole matter very well—they
have indeed grown wise, and yet they haven't lost their sense of mischief,
either, it seems. A well told tale!


Title: As Good As
<http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterlistview.asp?SID=2688> You · Author:
pearltook1
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=72
> · Books/Time: Post-Ring War: Shire · ID: 854
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=18&form_story_filter=854>
Reviewer: Dwimordene
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=8>
· 2005-06-17 22:21:06 Score: 5
I really liked the Paladin this story presented—wise but down to earth, and
even if he's gotten rather blind in the eyes, he sees himself quite clearly.
His account of his doings during the Occupation was a neat bit of analysis,
as well, allowing for a different view of the Tooks' refusal to bow to the
ruffians. Paladin may not be one to make many friends, but within familiar
bounds, he certainly seems able at bringing his son around to reason without
shaming Pippin; perhaps he was a better Thain than he knew in that regard. A
sweet story about growing up and assuming responsibility.

Title: Renewal <http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterlistview.asp?SID=3162>
· Author: Bodkin
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=41
1> · Books/Time: Post-Ring War: Gap-Filler · ID: 883
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=18&form_story_filter=883>
Reviewer: Dwimordene
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=8>
· 2005-06-17 22:22:17 Score: 7
An enjoyable look at the decision of Celeborn, and a few other well-known
Elves, to take ship to Valinor. Despite the sense of loss, renewal is, as
the title proclaims, the overriding theme, and it makes for some fine,
humorous moments. Even Elrond has a joke, in absentia, and one must
appreciate a story that puts him at the heart of a classic double-blind
scheme that was doubtless enacted only so that it could later be discovered.
Celeborn's motivations for remaining in Arda, and also his reasons for
leaving it, are nicely explored, and Thranduil, too, acquires depth in what
is clearly an old friendship between him and Celeborn. Elrohir, though
younger, is also well-written, and it's nice to see him in a jesting, if not
overtly mischievous, mood, even as he, too, turns westward.

Title: Light out of
<http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterlistview.asp?SID=2266> Darkness ·
Author: Shirebound
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=31
5> · Books/Time: Post-Ring War: Gap-Filler · ID: 895
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=18&form_story_filter=895>
Reviewer: Dwimordene
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=8>
· 2005-06-19 15:09:17 Score: 8
What a lovely series of vignettes, all braided together! Each character's
voice is well done in a brief space, and there is always that uplift at the
end—movement towards the titular light, as it were. Which appears in many
forms—candles, fires, gemstones, sunlight, starlight, inner light,
sword-light, that marvelous scene with the phial in the water ("Pippin",
indeed, does not lack for imagination!), but most of all, friendship as the
one abiding light that draws everyone together. Although I am an absolutely
slobbering Aragorn groupie, I found myself most affected by the chapter with
Gimli and Frodo. Gimli gets so few good stories that each one deserves
remark. Your Gimli-voice is beautiful, and to see him and Frodo have some
substantive, yet not heavy, conversation was a treat. This is the Dwarf I
always wanted to see, and thank you for showing him. For anyone who finds
themselves wanting more than was ever told about the journey home from
Ithilien, this would be an excellent fic to read.

Title: Dolor Meus
<http://www.henneth-annun.net/stories/chapter.cfm?STID=5032> · Author:
Werecat
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=83
> · Books/Time: Post-Ring War · ID: 897
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=18&form_story_filter=897>
Reviewer: Dwimordene
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=8>
· 2005-06-19 15:10:01 Score: 9
Now this is an unusual meeting, and what a setting! Werecat is to be
commended for a seamless integration of not just one, but two, of
Middle-earth's denizens into a later, much changed time. Her Radagast is
spectacular—a master of hues and shapes he is called, and I remember the
line in which it is said that he is presented as a person of far lesser
power than Gandalf or Saruman. Perhaps so, but here we see the wizard
within. Perhaps it just needed the right Age for us to see that elemental
wisdom of his shining forth, as he brings a message of redemption to Maglor.
I don't know if it was Werecat's intention, but this reads to me as a sort
of inverse annunciation, and it's a delicious thought, that angels might
take an interest in bearing such messages to the desperate.

Beyond that, the Francis of Assisi connection was very fitting, I thought,
and added another layer of depth to the story. I would recommend this story
to anyone who has any interest at all in post-Fourth Age fics, or in the
wizards in general, and of course, Maglor fans will certainly find this an
interesting end to Maglor's tale in Middle-earth. Bravo, Werecat—another
imaginative story from the sideviews of Middle-earth that opens the story up
in unexpected ways.


Title: Adagio <http://www.livejournal.com/users/scribendi/5442.html#cutid1>
· Author: simbelmyne
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=41
5> · Books/Time: Post-Ring War: Vignette · ID: 902
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=18&form_story_filter=902>
Reviewer: Dwimordene
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=8>
· 2005-06-19 15:10:44 Score: 2
A sweet, short fic tracing Lothiriel's journey, as she finds her place among
the Rohirrim through learning to love their songs (oh yes, and their king!).

Title: Concerning
<http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterview.asp?sid=2364&cid=11940> Ladders ·
Author: grey_wonderer
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=62
> · Books/Time: Post-Ring War: Friendship · ID: 926
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=18&form_story_filter=926>
Reviewer: Dwimordene
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=8>
· 2005-06-19 15:11:13 Score: 2
An enjoyable story, with its humorous moments (particularly the first third
or so, which had me laughing), that looks at the balance of trust between
Merry and Pippin.

Title: Tales
<http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterview.asp?sid=371&cid=9202> of Old Wives
· Author: Lindelea
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=27
> · Books/Time: Post-Ring War: General Drabble · ID: 927
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=18&form_story_filter=927>
Reviewer: Dwimordene
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=8>
· 2005-06-19 15:11:59 Score: 2
A nice set of drabbles, from the points of view of wakeful wives. I liked
Diamond's last two lines, and the note about Merry's herblore in the second
drabble.

Title: Always <http://www.livejournal.com/users/maripo5a/25137.html#cutid1>
Dancing · Author: Mariposa
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=27
0> · Books/Time: Post-Ring War: Friendship · ID: 928
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=18&form_story_filter=928>
Reviewer: Dwimordene
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=8>
· 2005-06-19 15:12:30 Score: 4
I very much enjoyed this, watching the hobbits pass on something that they
had learned during their journey. "Good teachers make for easy teaching" is
a great line, turning this fic into more than a memory of Hollin and
Boromir, but a tribute to him. It's also a tribute to his students who show
themselves to have been truly good students, having picked up not just the
swordcraft, but the art of teaching from him as well. Bravo!

Title: Homeward bound <http://www.freewebs.com/aure/homewardbound.htm> ·
Author: Marta
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=16
> · Books/Time: Post-Ring War: Gap-Filler · ID: 945
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=18&form_story_filter=945>
Reviewer: Dwimordene
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=8>
· 2005-06-19 15:13:15 Score: 5
Ah, another fic in which Nob gets a bit of attention and shows himself to be
a wiser head than his employer gives him credit for. I particularly liked
the opening paragraph, in which Nob notes the constant presence of scraggly
companions for the four hobbits of the Fellowship, whether of the rangerly
or wizardly variety. And his leaving Sam and Bill alone to their reunion
also leaves them to find their own way to bed, echoing Bill's journey back
from the Mines, but in a much more lighthearted manner.

Title: In Memoriam <http://www.freewebs.com/aure/inmemoriam.htm> · Author:
Marta
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=16
> · Books/Time: Post-Ring War: Ithilien Drabble · ID: 949
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=18&form_story_filter=949>
Reviewer: Dwimordene
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=8>
· 2005-06-19 15:13:41 Score: 4
An interesting point is brought out here: the question of at what point do
you mark the turning point of a victory? It's in one way a futile question,
since as soon as you identify one point, you realize it depended upon
another that perhaps deserves to be pointed to equally. But as a question,
it opens horizons, as it does for Bergil, who finds his horizon changed by
the simple act of moving the moment of Gondor's victory from Minas Tirith to
Parth Galen.

Title: Fear no <http://www.fanfiction.net/s/2071845/1/> more · Author:
Cuthalion
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=40
7> · Books/Time: Post-Ring War: Gap-Filler · ID: 970
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=18&form_story_filter=970>
Reviewer: Dwimordene
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=8>
· 2005-06-19 15:14:10 Score: 5
An interesting way of giving news of Frodo's departure to Gondor. Contrasted
with Faramir's dreams, enumerated in the opening, this single one that has
nothing to do with death or warning, seems to function as a sort of bookend
to his dreamlife: a sign that he, too, need fear no more the prescient
dreams, that Frodo's departure in a sense signals a transition to a less
fearful time, when Sauron's mark on Middle-earth can truly begin to fade.
Couple of grammatical things, but overall, nicely done.

Title: StarFire <http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterlistview.asp?SID=1718>
· Author: Lindelea
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=27
> · Books/Time: Post-Ring War: Friendship · ID: 983
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=18&form_story_filter=983>
Reviewer: Dwimordene
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=8>
· 2005-06-19 15:14:48 Score: 10
Lindelea gives us quite a yarn, in the style to which her readers are
accustomed: with nicely rounded characters, whether original or canonical,
humor and darkness by turns and degrees, and a Shire that has gravity behind
it to keep everything anchored. Although the story is named after a horse,
it goes quite far beyond the horse to put together a picture of living in
the Great Smials, amongst "the Talk", as Pippin Took goes that last distance
towards maturing into the hobbit his people need, and whose mettle was
initially tested and tried by the Quest. In the opening (quite humorous)
chapter, we learn of the Rohirric tradition, that the king must tame the
lead stallion of the herd if he is to truly be king, and there is a sense in
which Pippin does just that. Starfire is the catalyst that makes it possible
for Pippin to tame any number of "wild horses" he has inherited: his poor
cousin Ferdibrand, his own temper and remaining careless ways, the Thainship
and its rather bitter legacy, and the challenge of peacetime troubles that
are not nearly so simple to solve in many ways as those that come with war.
There's no army to lead, and such troubles as poverty cannot be solved at
swordpoint.

This story keeps things lively, with enough twists and turns to keep one on
one's toes, and although you can foresee some things, that doesn't take away
from the story's unfolding. I am certain that anyone with curiosity about
the Shire will have found this story already, but if they haven't, it is
well worth the time. For those looking to find some good original characters
or an interesting look at Pippin post-Ring War, this is a story they'll want
to pick up some afternoon and enjoy. The only thing detracting from my
enjoyment is the ending, which feels just a touch incomplete to me. But even
so, one might say it does indeed fit its title and open onto a new day for
the Tooks. Bravo, Lindelea!


Title: That Which
<http://www.henneth-annun.net/stories/chapter.cfm?STID=3255> Remains ·
Author: mir_noldoris
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=14
4> · Books/Time: Post-Ring War: Final Partings · ID: 1025
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=18&form_story_filter=1025>
Reviewer: Dwimordene
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=8>
· 2005-06-19 15:34:11 Score: 6
A bittersweet set of scenes, in which one can feel the absence of loved ones
even when they are not mentioned. They cover the field of emotional
reaction: with Arwen and Aragorn, there's a "firm and desperate" hope for
the future beyond the loss of the Elf who was a father to both of them; with
Gimli and Celeborn, there is the bitterness of loss and the effort of
consolation; with the twins, confusion and bewilderment; and with Sam and
Rose, a sense of release in a way, almost as one feels when the dead or the
departed are understood to have left their pain behind. Grief gets blunted
by that sense of relief on behalf of Frodo, who is gone. The scenes are
spare and diverse, but Eärmírë holds them all together nicely.

Title: Watery <http://www.henneth-annun.net/stories/chapter.cfm?STID=1673>
Grave · Author: Ijemanja
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=28
5> · Books/Time: Post-Ring War: Vignette · ID: 1074
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=18&form_story_filter=1074>
Reviewer: Dwimordene
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=8>
· 2005-06-19 15:34:49 Score: 7
A clever way of allowing these two women, Goldberry and Arwen, to meet, and
at just the right moment. Ijemanja puts a fine point on Arwen's fear and
exhaustion. The bitterness she feels that she cannot see her family, the
bitterness that she feels about dying, and her fear of dying: all these are
brought out and given their full weight but not regret—that is a key
distinction and the fic is the richer for it. This is a story of an Elf
learning how to die as a mortal, a task most mortals don't accomplish with
much in the way of grace. Goldberry's help in this matter, showing Arwen how
faint is the hold on life, and how little worth clinging it is, even as she
gives Arwen the comfort of another being and someone to hold her through the
worst of her fears and loneliness, is well portrayed, and suits a water
spirit very well. Good job, Ijemanja!

Title: The
<http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterview.asp?sid=3484&cid=13214> King's
Summons · Author: Tanaqui
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=40
> · Books/Time: Post-Ring War: Gondor · ID: 1392
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=18&form_story_filter=1392>
Reviewer: Dwimordene
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=8>
· 2005-06-19 23:54:08 Score: 2
A sweet snapshot. Legolas' reaction to the news made me laugh, and I liked
seeing Beregond and the hints of the shape of his relationship with Legolas.

Title: A New
<http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterview.asp?sid=3484&cid=13190> Age ·
Author: Tanaqui
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=40
> · Books/Time: Post-Ring War: Gondor Drabble · ID: 1387
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=18&form_story_filter=1387>
Reviewer: Dwimordene
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=8>
· 2005-06-19 23:54:39 Score: 2
I like the idea that Faramir, too, might be able to give back the Gift. The
sense of change, but also of resolution and relief, also come through nicely
with Eldarion's.

Title: Mother
<http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterview.asp?sid=3484&cid=13197> and Son ·
Author: Tanaqui
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=40
> · Books/Time: Post-Ring War: General Drabble · ID: 1381
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=18&form_story_filter=1381>
Reviewer: Dwimordene
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=8>
· 2005-06-19 23:55:10 Score: 2
It seems one never outgrows the need to make one's mother proud, even if one
is an immortal Elf-lord. At least Elwing's response suggests Elrond's new
life will be joyous.


[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]

Msg# 5103

Reviews Final as of 8/17/2005 part 18 Posted by Ainaechoiriel August 17, 2005 - 23:21:48 Topic ID# 5103
Title: Seeing
<http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterview.asp?sid=3484&cid=13199> · Author:
Tanaqui
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=40
> · Books/Time: Post-Ring War: Gondor Drabble · ID: 1356
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=19&form_story_filter=1356>
Reviewer: Dwimordene
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=8>
· 2005-06-19 23:56:17 Score: 1
Imrahil comes off with an almost hobbity contentment with the present! He's
got clear sight indeed.

Title: In <http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterview.asp?sid=3477&cid=13143>
Thranduil's Halls · Author: Gwynnyd
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=18
6> · Books/Time: Post-Ring War: Vignette · ID: 1304
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=19&form_story_filter=1304>
Reviewer: Dwimordene
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=8>
· 2005-06-19 23:56:53 Score: 1
Lovely last line. The ficlet evokes Legolas' disorientation "at home" in a
brief space.

Title: Borne to Me <http://www.fanfiction.net/s/1674505/1/> By the Sea ·
Author: AngelQueen
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=48
3> · Books/Time: Post-Ring War: Aman · ID: 1258
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=19&form_story_filter=1258>
Reviewer: Dwimordene
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=8>
· 2005-06-19 23:57:58 Score: 1
I like the uncertainty in which this fic ends, as it gives the reader a
sense of Galadriel's position throughout.

Title: Knitting
<http://www.livejournal.com/users/talechal12/10357.html#cutid1> · Author:
AngieT
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=45
8> · Books/Time: Post-Ring War: Friendship · ID: 1225
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=19&form_story_filter=1225>
Reviewer: Dwimordene
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=8>
· 2005-06-19 23:59:44 Score: 2
An amusing short. Frodo the tween-aged yet unintentional terror of Buckland
got a smile from me, as did the old Auntie's response to it. It's nice to
see Frodo helping others instead of being helped by others during his stay
in Gondor.

Title: The
<http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterview.asp?sid=3540&cid=13461> Long
Defeat · Author: Perelleth
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=46
5> · Books/Time: Post-Ring War: Aman · ID: 1213
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=19&form_story_filter=1213>
Reviewer: Dwimordene
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=8>
· 2005-06-20 00:00:20 Score: 1
Interesting that a tree should set Celeborn on the Straight Path.

Title: Land of Light
<http://www.henneth-annun.net/stories/chapter.cfm?STID=42> and Shadows ·
Author: Thundera
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=86
> Tiger · Books/Time: Post-Ring War: Incomplete · ID: 1202
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=19&form_story_filter=1202>
Reviewer: Dwimordene
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=8>
· 2005-06-20 00:01:27 Score: 10
I think this was the second Thundera fic I had ever read, and when it came
up on FF.net, and I saw that Harad was going to be the major playing field,
I was very excited by the prospect of a story that would try to dig into the
problems that land would present for Gondor. The larger setting of the story
is the attempt by one particular tribe of Haradrim to gain mastery over the
rest, which means Gondor, a source of trade and power for the opposition,
must somehow be shaken loose. What better way than to first disgrace, and
then eliminate, the heads of state of Gondor and Rohan, then, thus showing
the other tribes the folly of alliance with the West? With that as the
background, obviously things go awry from nearly the moment Aragorn and
Éomer, with Legolas and Gimli in tow, set foot in Harad. The latter two
become pawns in the game, a position they had already accepted in an effort
to help their friends out, which complicates matters for everyone.

Thundera uses several characters as her eyes and ears, so we spend time in
Aragorn's head, in Éomer's, Legolas', Gimli's, Imrahil's, and several of the
OC Haradrim. One gets a strong sense that Thundera is paying a bit of a
tribute to "Dune" with this fic; while there's plenty of action, there are
also long introspection or discussion pieces. Some of these could use some
tightening, but by and large, the reader gets sucked in regardless. Fans of
Legolas and Gimli will be pleased to know those two are at the heart of the
story. Otherwise, I can but say "Save Dashnir!" and hope the fic will be
continued soon.


Title: Lost
<http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterview.asp?sid=1828&cid=7613> and Found ·
Author: Bodkin
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=41
1> · Books/Time: Post-Ring War · ID: 1253
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=19&form_story_filter=1253>
Reviewer: Dwimordene
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=8>
· 2005-06-20 00:03:10 Score: 3
Bittersweet reflections, as Eglantine shows her hobbit toughness or just
parental toughness in resting content with the fact that Pippin has grown
well, despite the injuries and grief. Good to see the adjustment of a hobbit
who stayed behind to one of the Travellers, rather than the reverse.

Title: Maps
<http://www.livejournal.com/users/talechallenge13/5559.html#cutid1> and
Legends · Author: Anso
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=38
6> the Hobbit · Books/Time: Post-Ring War: Shire · ID: 1191
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=19&form_story_filter=1191>
Reviewer: Dwimordene
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=8>
· 2005-06-20 00:05:47 Score: 1
Nicely evocative gifts for the new Master of Buckland.

Title: Leavetakings
<http://www.tolkienfanfiction.com/Story_Read_Chapter.php?CHid=1124> ·
Author: Azalais
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=18
7> · Genres: Drama (includes Angst): Drabble · ID: 138
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=19&form_story_filter=138>
Reviewer: Dwimordene
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=8>
· 2005-06-20 23:18:38 Score: 2
Humor and hurt, love and loyalty—Azalais gives a nice snapshot of the final
parting of Elessar and Legolas. Good use of that line out of "The Ring Goes
South".

Title: Captain of the
<http://www.henneth-annun.net/stories/chapter.cfm?STID=3665> Guard · Author:
Arandil
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=22
9> · Genres: Drama (includes Angst): Mirkwood · ID: 119
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=19&form_story_filter=119>
Reviewer: Dwimordene
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=8>
· 2005-06-20 23:19:22 Score: 2
I suppose Legolas could have been the captain on the watch during both those
"incidents". Not quite sure I've grasped the father-son dynamic at work
here. Tone more like "The Hobbit" than I'd expected.

Title: Beast of <http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterlistview.asp?SID=2325>
Burden · Author: Werecat
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=83
> · Genres: Drama (includes Angst) · ID: 118
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=19&form_story_filter=118>
Reviewer: Dwimordene
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=8>
· 2005-06-20 23:19:52 Score: 5
This story reminds me of nothing so much as The Three Trees meets the Ugly
Duckling, save that the unlikely subject of this story is a draught horse of
Rohan, Summerstraw, who has to make choice about what he will be rather than
having it imposed upon him. This story certainly fits, in its way, with the
(somewhat underwritten of necessity) theme 'valour without renown'.
Summerstraw doesn't go to the great battles, but fights his own for the sake
of his human family while all the warhorses are away in Gondor.

Title: Nine Lives
<http://www.henneth-annun.net/stories/chapter.cfm?STID=3209> · Author:
Werecat
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=83
> · Genres: Drama (includes Angst) · ID: 97
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=19&form_story_filter=97>
Reviewer: Dwimordene
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=8>
· 2005-06-20 23:21:48 Score: 5
An excellent reversal of the usual tale of Berúthiel and her cats—one might
expect it would be Werecat who would find the means to do it without making
it feel contrived. The cats come off quite well, particularly Isilme in his
later, somewhat spooky days as the eyes and ears for the Queen, and some of
Tolkien's notes are put to good, creative use. Berúthiel does indeed come
off as a sympathetic character, although I think the cats retain their
properly enigmatic air, as of creatures that simply do not share human
concerns.Well done, Werecat!

Title: The Sea <http://www.fanfiction.net/s/621289/1/> Sings a Lullaby ·
Author: Camilla
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=21
3> Sandman · Genres: Drama (includes Angst): Fourth Age · ID: 87
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=19&form_story_filter=87>
Reviewer: Dwimordene
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=8>
· 2005-06-20 23:24:37 Score: 3
Well, this is certainly one end to the tale of Elf and Dwarf I had not
expected, but then again, the authors of the last pages of the Red Book
never set foot in Valinor. Osse is the most dangerous of the Valar and Maiar
who repudiated the darkness, and one can well imagine his power to destroy
as well as his power to seduce.

Title: Swan
<http://www.henneth-annun.net/challenge/chapter.cfm?STID=4204&NGID=286>
Flight · Author: AmandaK
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=20
9> · Genres: Drama (includes Angst): Gondor · ID: 84
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=19&form_story_filter=84>
Reviewer: Dwimordene
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=8>
· 2005-06-20 23:25:19 Score: 3
An interesting little vignette. This could be a scene from any childhood—who
didn't set something unintended in motion while playing?—but Amanda inserts
just that hint of things to come in the way Denethor construes what
happened. Nicely done!

Title: The Machine <http://www.fanfiction.net/s/1948948/1/> That Changed
the World · Author: Altariel
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=18
1> · Genres: Drama (includes Angst): Fourth Age · ID: 80
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=19&form_story_filter=80>
Reviewer: Dwimordene
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=8>
· 2005-06-20 23:26:28 Score: 4
Very clever! I suppose we shall have to wring the tale of industrialized
Númenor out of Altariel one vignette at a time. Good use of a couple of
minor characters here; one gets a sense of the relationships and
personalities established amongst this little group, though the story is
very brief. The argument over the introduction of this new technology is
well done, as is the conclusion—the Age of Men will have its own marvels,
with their own dangers.

Title: Love's Labours
<http://henneth-annun.net/stories/chapter.cfm?STID=300> · Author: Alawa
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=10
3> · Genres: Drama (includes Angst) · ID: 71
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=19&form_story_filter=71>
Reviewer: Dwimordene
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=8>
· 2005-06-20 23:27:46 Score: 4
A set of quiet stories, as Gilraen and Arathorn get to acquainted with their
son, and their new titles of "mother" and "father". Wonder and joy come up
against labor and hardship, as the two contemplate what lies ahead for their
child, and their own marriage, defined by long separations. But overall,
warmth prevails over toil and reaffirms them in their love, that keeps them
able to do their duty with grace.

Title: Words <http://www.henneth-annun.net/stories/chapter.cfm?STID=2066>
Unsaid · Author: Acacea
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=19
6> · Genres: Drama (includes Angst): Gapfiller · ID: 55
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=19&form_story_filter=55>
Reviewer: Dwimordene
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=8>
· 2005-06-20 23:29:42 Score: 1
Reads smoothly, if too quietly rationally to me for Denethor. Tries to
straddle the line of Appendix and ROTK Denethor.

Title: While the Ring
<http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterlistview.asp?SID=449> Went South... ·
Author: Thundera
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=86
> Tiger · Books/Time: Gap-Filler · ID: 33
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=19&form_story_filter=33>
Reviewer: Marta
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=16
> · 2005-06-21 01:14:28 Score: 10
I know that Thundera Tiger has commented somewhere else (perhaps in her
author's note) that this was her first story written in the Lord of the
Rings fandom. If so, she is in good company with the likes of ErinRua's
"Last Grey Ship". And I do not hesitate -- in the slightest! -- to name this
story in the same breath with Erin's. This is a gapfiller, while the other
is set long after the Ring's destruction; this is novella length while
Erin's is multi-part but significantly shorter. But the two pieces have two
main things in common: both are built on tantalising hints left by Tolkien
(the former in the chapter of Fellowship of the Ring by the same name, the
latter in the Appendices), and both make me blush when I think of my own
early attempts.

Where to start on a piece like "While the Ring Went South"? Others might
easily comment on the many pranks Gimli and Legolas play on each other. I'm
sure poor Gimli must have been scared nearly witless by the arrow nailing
his beard to a tree, and Legolas tasted the aftertaste of the pipeweed Gimli
left in his water for hours. But they made me laugh to no end. Aragorn's
unrelenting patience in dealing with them and everyone else is beyond
admirable, and the hobbits are well-drawn. But I think what really struck me
was the characterisation of Boromir. Here is not a simple brute, or a
jingoistic general; I see a complex man, clearly a son of Denethor but oh so
different from his younger brother, proud but not prideful.

If this piece has a fault it would be that there was not enough build up to
the warg. After the fact (especially after the first was killed) I felt the
terror that many had for these beasts, but by then it was in many ways too
late. Until that point I wondered why the Fellowship was so scared of the
wargs. A little more "show don't tell" in the lead-up to the hunts would
make this piece as perfect as any fanfic can be.

Title: Olorin I Was,
<http://www.henneth-annun.net/stories/chapter.cfm?STID=2844> Olorin I Am ·
Author: Arquen
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=23
3> · Books/Time: Gap-Filler · ID: 137
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=19&form_story_filter=137>
Reviewer: Marta
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=16
> · 2005-06-21 01:19:15 Score: 6
I love this vignette; it is probably one of my favourite. The scene you
chose to fill is particularly enigmatic, and this vignette fills it nicely.
I particularly like the mythic quality the author infused in this piece; it
does not cross the line by revealing too much. But the plot itself is so
well conceived, and the characterisations of minor characters only hinted at
in the body of Lord of the Rings only enriches it. (The author clearly knows
her Silmarillion, and while the piece is more or less comprehensible if one
only knows Lord of the Rings, it is incredibly enriched by knowledge of the
backstory that plays into the story.) Really, it's too hard to pick one
aspect that I like best!

Title: Forgotten
<http://www.henneth-annun.net/stories/chapter.cfm?STID=2009> Casualty ·
Author: Thundera
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=86
> Tiger · Books/Time: Gap-Filler · ID: 591
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=19&form_story_filter=591>
Reviewer: Marta
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=16
> · 2005-06-21 01:21:11 Score: 3
So that's what happened to that fox! I always wondered, and this piece is
gruesome, yes, but also very compelling. Poor guy. This piece could have
very easily fit into horror, but it is much more connected with canon than
many stories you see. Well done.

Title: Going
<http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterview.asp?sid=3477&cid=13135> to Rohan ·
Author: Gwynnyd
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=18
6> · Books/Time: Gap-Filler: Drabble · ID: 401
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=19&form_story_filter=401>
Reviewer: Marta
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=16
> · 2005-06-21 01:41:53 Score: 4
I think my favourite thing about this drabble is the character that you
infuse into Roheryn's character. Of *course* a horse from Rivendell would
have a more complex personality than you often imagine in a non-sentient
character, and his practicality just screams "Strider" to me. Your Roheryn
is a good match for his master. The physical descriptions are also nice;
it's obvious that you have spent time around our four-legged friends.

Title: Second
<http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterview.asp?sid=3477&cid=13140> Watch ·
Author: Gwynnyd
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=18
6> · Books/Time: Gap-Filler: Drabble · ID: 410
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=19&form_story_filter=410>
Reviewer: Marta
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=16
> · 2005-06-21 01:43:29 Score: 2
This is a rare interaction between Boromir and Pippin. You don't see the two
interact much, but this felt real. I enjoyed it.

Title: At the
<http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterview.asp?sid=371&cid=2706> Witch King's
Feet · Author: Lindelea
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=27
> · Books/Time: Gap-Filler: Drabble · ID: 459
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=19&form_story_filter=459>
Reviewer: Marta
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=16
> · 2005-06-21 01:47:50 Score: 4
This is a beautiful moment. You take us from Merry's thoughts that Eowyn
should not die unaided, and bring us full circle to the simple regret that
he may have broken Theoden's commands. I understand that regret. And I
particularly liked how you use words that in less capable hands might seem
nonsense (such as "burn-freeze"), but here they seem to flow quite
naturally.

Title: Not Without
<http://www.henneth-annun.net/stories/chapter.cfm?STID=3879> Hope · Author:
Gwynnyd
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=18
6> · Books/Time: Gap-Filler: Drama · ID: 48
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=19&form_story_filter=48>
Reviewer: Marta
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=16
> · 2005-06-21 19:06:43 Score: 10
This is quite possibly the most stunning piece of its length that I have
ever seen. I realise that I was one of the beta readers for it, so perhaps I
am a tad biased, but I don't think that's the whole story. Gwynnyd has taken
two facts that most of us probably never thought twice about -- that both
Aragorn and Gilraen lived in Rivendell, and that Aragorn's identity was
successfully hidden -- and exposed the problem and this and fixed it.

Every one of her characters, both real and original, affected me strongly.
Gilraen is of course the key player, but even young Aragorn is darling.
Arathorn is definitely developed, and you can see why Gwynnyd's Gilraen
would love them. Halbeleg (an original character whose name I also used; in
Gwynnyd's stories this is Halbarad's father so no connection to my grandson
of Halbarad) is a man of action, hardened by necessity but not out of touch
with his feelings, and his caring and concern (and growing frustration!)
with his kinswoman. Both of their reactions are so understandable, and
Gilraen's reaction is extremely understandable.

And the Twins, the Twins... I cannot pinpoint why they are so damned sexy in
this piece. They are not behaving at all romantically, and I don't think you
even describe them physically. But this was probably the piece that made me
fall in love with them, and on more than just a physical level. There is
something so romantic and sweet in the way they relate to Areg. And
Gilraen's surprise when Elrond herself calls on her... well, you can
probably tell that I loved the whole thing from start to finish. As I said
in another review, your Gilraen and Forodwaith's are my favourite in the
fandom, and it speaks highly of this story that the other elements give
Gilraen a run for her money.

Title: Fellowship
<http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterview.asp?sid=3477&cid=13132> · Author:
Gwynnyd
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=18
6> · Books/Time: Gap-Filler: Drama · ID: 396
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=19&form_story_filter=396>
Reviewer: Marta
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=16
> · 2005-06-21 19:09:10 Score: 3
I liked this one, too. It was interesting that Aragorn asked Legolas to join
the Fellowship, not one of the many Elf-lords in Rivendell, or even Gandalf.
But it makes sense that Legolas might refuse an appeal to honour from
Elrond, but not an appeal to friendship from Aragorn. And the interaction
throughout was very nice.


[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]

Msg# 5104

Reviews Final as of 8/17/2005 part 19 Posted by Ainaechoiriel August 17, 2005 - 23:22:24 Topic ID# 5104
Title: Currents <http://www.henneth-annun.net/stories/chapter.cfm?STID=3666>
· Author: Thundera
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=86
> Tiger · Books/Time: Gap-Filler: Drama · ID: 1008
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=20&form_story_filter=1008>
Reviewer: Marta
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=16
> · 2005-06-21 19:13:20 Score: 3
This is a skillfully told gapfiller that connects the dots between
Lothlórien and Parth Galen. And it was very well-told, touchign on many
memories and painting a full picture without actually doing flashbacks,
which is how I think a person's (or hobbit's) memory would actually work.

Title: Cheery Letters
<http://www.henneth-annun.net/stories/chapter.cfm?STID=1951> From Bree ·
Author: Lulleny
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=30
2> · Books/Time: Gap-Filler: Drama · ID: 1094
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=20&form_story_filter=1094>
Reviewer: Marta
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=16
> · 2005-06-21 19:19:29 Score: 3
This is a very enjoyable read about a possible incident while Aragorn and
the hobbits were in Bree. There should be more stories about this stage of
the story, in my opinion. The interaction between Strider and the hobbits,
especially Merry, was interesting, and Merry's letter was cleverly
constructed.

Title: Envinyatar
<http://www.henneth-annun.net/challenge/chapter_view.cfm?NGID=177&STID=3367&
SPOrdinal=7> · Author: Starlight
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=19
5> · Books/Time: Gap-Filler: Grey Company · ID: 520
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=20&form_story_filter=520>
Reviewer: Marta
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=16
> · 2005-06-21 19:39:18 Score: 9
I remember when Starlight first posted this beautiful story back on
[Henneth_Annun] for the "Ides of March" onlist challenge in (I think) 2004.
That challenge turned out some very nice pieces, but I think "Envinyatar" is
my favourite piece of all those. Words fail me when I think back to how
profoundly it moved me. Perhaps it is because I am Christian and deeply
spiritual, but this piece affected me so strongly! It is the embodiment of
the messianic hope that we see in so many religions but especially
Christianity, yet it does not feel at all out of place for Middle-earth.

What makes this piece even more remarkable is that it uses almost all
original characters. More than a year later (I'm writing this review without
taking the time to re-read... too many stories!) I forget the names but I
remember the characters. They were rangers, and soldiers, but also Dunedain.
Their king was returning, Aragorn would become Elessar, and they all
realised the importance of that fact. Anyone who is at all spiritual and
values such things as hope and destiny, and especially those who like
Aragorn and the Northern Dúnedain, should not miss this story. It's too
short not to give it a chance, I highly recommend it.

Title: Reunion at <http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterlistview.asp?SID=91>
Isengard · Author: Shirebound
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=31
5> · Books/Time: Gap-Filler: Hobbits · ID: 515
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=20&form_story_filter=515>
Reviewer: Marta
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=16
> · 2005-06-21 19:46:41 Score: 2
I really liked this piece, especially the first chapter; the author's
extrapolations are logical and interesting. Of course I always enjoy her
"reunion" pieces.

Title: A <http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterview.asp?sid=2199&cid=9011>
Merry Meeting at Bree · Author: maranya14
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=12
0> · Books/Time: Post-Ring War · ID: 211
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=20&form_story_filter=211>
Reviewer: Marta
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=16
> · 2005-06-21 20:25:10 Score: 3
There are several things you could say about this piece, but I think my
absolute favourite is the characterisations of Nob and Bergil. The author
has just breathed so much life into these characters that we only see
briefly in canon. This was an engaging piece all the way through, very funny
without being over the top.

Title: All
<http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterview.asp?sid=2929&cid=11235> Hallows'
Day · Author: Marnie
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=24
5> · Books/Time: Post-Ring War · ID: 317
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=20&form_story_filter=317>
Reviewer: Marta
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=16
> · 2005-06-21 20:46:50 Score: 3
Now this is certainly different! I have read many of Marnie's stories but I
don't think I've ever read anything quite this spooky. But it's good, very
good, and it's only proof that there aren't many things Marnie can't write.
Provided it involves Celeborn, of course. ;-) The modern humans were well
done, as was Elmo's sense of desperation.

Title: Fading <http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterlistview.asp?SID=2926>
Leaves · Author: Forodwaith
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=50
> · Books/Time: Post-Ring War · ID: 356
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=20&form_story_filter=356>
Reviewer: Marta
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=16
> · 2005-06-21 20:49:57 Score: 4
This was a delightful story of the start of the Fourth Age, not from the
usual perspective of Gondor or the hobbits or whomever, but from an elf. An
OC from Rivendell, no less. It was a very novel idea, and well done. I
particularly liked how you captured the passing of time with a particularly
elvish fair toward the end, when your main character wonders if there are
any ships left, and decides she doesn't care.

Title: Sing Me Home
<http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterlistview.asp?SID=85> · Author:
Shirebound
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=31
5> · Books/Time: Post-Ring War: Aman · ID: 516
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=20&form_story_filter=516>
Reviewer: Marta
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=16
> · 2005-06-21 21:16:56 Score: 5
This is probably one of my favourite of Shirebound's stories, at least of
the ones I've read to date. Not only does it contain many nice moments but
it answers, or at least poses a possible answer to, a question that I have
wondered for quite some time. How did Arwen know that Frodo would be allowed
to sail West? It's a very nice answer, too. And the scene in Rivendell where
Frodo rides the Eagles? Perfect! This was a very nice read, walking that
fine line between flippancy and angst so heavy it's depressing.

Title: Farewell
<http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterview.asp?sid=1887&cid=9416> · Author:
Forodwaith
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=50
> · Books/Time: Post-Ring War: Final Partings · ID: 362
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=20&form_story_filter=362>
Reviewer: Marta
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=16
> · 2005-06-21 22:10:11 Score: 3
What an imaginative drabble! I would never have thought of anything like
this. And yet it seems fitting somehow. Radagast the wanderer would be no
more ready to leave Middle-earth than Celeborn was, and I think Tolkien
would have approved of your version.

Title: That Which
<http://www.henneth-annun.net/stories/chapter.cfm?STID=3255> Remains ·
Author: mir_noldoris
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=14
4> · Books/Time: Post-Ring War: Final Partings · ID: 1025
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=20&form_story_filter=1025>
Reviewer: Marta
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=16
> · 2005-06-21 22:16:20 Score: 3
This story reminds me in a way of Flick's "Passages": there is such beauty
in its brevity. You have touched on so many spheres of Middle-earth, how
they were all affected by the departure of the Ring-bearers, and it's
amazing the threads that you picked up on and tied together.

Title: Afterthoughts
<http://www.dwimordenespage.org/index.php?go=7&id=19&chapter=10> · Author:
Dwimordene
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=8>
· Books/Time: Post-Ring War: Gondor Drabble · ID: 230
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=20&form_story_filter=230>
Reviewer: Marta
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=16
> · 2005-06-22 00:16:34 Score: 2
This isn't a character pair you see interacting very nice, and they were
both well characterised here. I especially like that Faramir had wisdom of
his own, even when around a wise being like Elrond.

Title: As
<http://www.henneth-annun.net/challenge/chapter.cfm?STID=2370&NGID=114>
Though to Breathe Were Life · Author: mir_noldoris
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=14
4> · Books/Time: Post-Ring War: Gondor Drabble · ID: 257
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=20&form_story_filter=257>
Reviewer: Marta
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=16
> · 2005-06-22 00:23:33 Score: 2
I would not have thought that anyone could take Aragorn's choice to give
back the Gift to 100 words, but you have done exactly that, and done it
artfully. Well done.

Title: Fireside
<http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterview.asp?sid=3477&cid=13133>
Reflections · Author: Gwynnyd
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=18
6> · Books/Time: Post-Ring War: Gondor Drabble · ID: 400
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=20&form_story_filter=400>
Reviewer: Marta
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=16
> · 2005-06-22 00:31:14 Score: 5
Faramir's statement that he loves the sword not the brightness nor the arrow
for its swiftness is probably one of my favourite lines in Lord of the
Rings, and here you have it realised. Faramir might miss those evenings
round a campfire telling stories, but I am sure he is happy to replace it
with hours by a hearth surrounded by his wife, children, and friends, his
old rangers serving him in a position more befitting peacetime. Yes, he
would prefer that lifestyle. Thank you for this lovely vision.

Title: Shield
<http://www.dwimordenespage.org/index.php?go=7&id=19&chapter=2> and Standard
· Author: Dwimordene
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=8>
· Books/Time: Post-Ring War: Gondor Drabble · ID: 695
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=20&form_story_filter=695>
Reviewer: Marta
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=16
> · 2005-06-22 00:35:01 Score: 4
Oh, this was such great fun! Of course Aragorn is a wise man, he would see
the meeting of the woman who loved him, and the woman he loved, as a threat.
It could have gone much worse for him. But it's very nice to see that you
envisioned a happy ending for them too. I'm sure Arwen and Eowyn will have
the Gondorian court eating out of their hand before long. Who could
withstand an alliance between those two?

Title: Good
<http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterview.asp?sid=3523&cid=13397> Stone ·
Author: ErinRua
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=26
7> · Books/Time: Post-Ring War: Gondor Drabble · ID: 721
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=20&form_story_filter=721>
Reviewer: Marta
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=16
> · 2005-06-22 00:36:40 Score: 2
This moment of friendship between Legolas and gimli is very touching, but
what really amazes me is the imagery. I can see the picture, and it is a
nice one.

Title: A New
<http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterview.asp?sid=3484&cid=13190> Age ·
Author: Tanaqui
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=40
> · Books/Time: Post-Ring War: Gondor Drabble · ID: 1387
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=20&form_story_filter=1387>
Reviewer: Marta
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=16
> · 2005-06-22 00:42:26 Score: 4
This is another of those moments that I never would have thought to explore
myself, but I am glad you did. And you did it very nicely. The language here
is smooht, the point of view is strong, but I think my favourite part is the
last line. Apparently it is not just Aragorn who knows that a wise king
should rely on and trust his steward, and I'm glad to see that condition
continuing into the next generation.

Title: Cursed Queen
<http://www.henneth-annun.net/stories/chapter.cfm?STID=1376> of Angmar ·
Author: khazar_khum
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=13
> · Races/Places: Villains: Nazgul · ID: 450
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=20&form_story_filter=450>
Reviewer: Marta
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=16
> · 2005-06-22 23:44:36 Score: 6
This is the story that made us all fall in love with the Witch King of
Angmar. Anyone who can take a man thousands of years old, under the dominion
of Sauron no less, and make us all not only sympathise but find him loveable
-- and all without turning him soft -- deserves props. The fact that
khazar_khum did all of this in the North, where so little is know, at a time
far before the War of the Ring and all of the characters so much of the
fandom loves to write about only makes this story more spectacular. It is
well-conceived and well-executed throughout. Anyone who is at all interested
in Men, the villains, the North, or just a good read all around, you won't
want to miss this one.

Title: The
<http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterview.asp?sid=3484&cid=13221> Long March
· Author: Tanaqui
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=40
> · Races/Places: Villains: Drabble · ID: 542
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=20&form_story_filter=542>
Reviewer: Marta
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=16
> · 2005-06-22 23:56:48 Score: 7
You know, the thing that I really noticed on reading this (both the first
time through at HASA, and on re-reading it just now) is that it could almost
be describing the Gondorians. I'm sure that the men recruited to join the
Ithilien Rangers were reminded of similar stories. Maybe not of the
Haradrim, but certainly of the Orcs. (It may have been too long since the
Haradrim ventured this far North for them to be fresh in peoples' memories.)
Whether the speaker is Haradric or Numenorean, he sees himself and his
comrades in very clear details. The banners flowing, the gear -- it is all
so sharp. Exactly as I like a drabble to work. If it wasn't for the
reference to war-beasts at the end I don't think I would have picked up the
man was a haradri, and that made it all the better; it made me think about
how similar the two sides were. Very, very well done.

Title: Triumph
<http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterview.asp?sid=3581&cid=13578> Incarnate
· Author: Elena
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=24
7> Tiriel · Races/Places: Villains: Drabble · ID: 198
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=20&form_story_filter=198>
Reviewer: Marta
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=16
> · 2005-06-23 00:06:58 Score: 4
I think this is one moment that I have never seen anyone -- anyone at all --
try to touch. Until now, of course, and especially in a drabble. But you
gave us a haunting glance of Sauron in the Temple of Melkor on Númenor. It
left me wanting to know more of what Sauron was thinking, but I guess that's
the point. You used imagery to particularly good effect, and crammed a lot
in such a tight space.

Title: For <http://www.quillsandink.com/fiction/viewstory.php?sid=112&i=1>
Love of Creation · Author: Andreth
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=21
6> · Races/Places: Villains · ID: 92
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=20&form_story_filter=92>
Reviewer: Marta
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=16
> · 2005-06-23 00:19:38 Score: 6
In "A Veiled Light" the author of this story showed that she has a
remarkable talent for making the obscure (at least to those of us who enjoy
primarily the late Third Age like myself) much more accessible. Here she
proves that she can do it for evil as well as for good. I felt like I was in
Sauron's mind. I understood his thoughts, his desires, his regrets, his
fears. This was so powerful! And the weird (and scary) thing is that I it
didn't really feel "evil". Ambiguous, yes, but no more obviously corrupted
than Denethor, for example. It just felt natural. I suppose that is how evil
would have to feel to evil, but it really made the whole mindset more
understandable for me.

Title: The Sand
<http://www.henneth-annun.net/stories/chapter.cfm?STID=1210> Circle ·
Author: A
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=91
> L Milton · Races/Places: Villains · ID: 49
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=20&form_story_filter=49>
Reviewer: Marta
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=16
> · 2005-06-23 00:24:09 Score: 1
An interesting look at Haradri culture.

Title: Out of <http://www.henneth-annun.net/stories/chapter.cfm?STID=2209>
Doubt · Author: Nessime
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=17
> · Genres: Drama (includes Angst): War of the Ring · ID: 494
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=20&form_story_filter=494>
Reviewer: Dwimordene
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=8>
· 2005-06-23 18:11:04 Score: 4
This short little piece slots nicely between the lines of Tolkien's text, as
Éomer takes his men on what really should have been their last ride. The
bitter irony—that he had invoked death's name and so, in a sense, made
himself in his rage and despair its very instrument, creating a
self-fulfilling prophecy by getting his Riders into an untenable
situation—is well handled, as is the sudden turn towards hope as the ships
arrive at Harlond.

Title: The Last <http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterlistview.asp?SID=1673>
Hour · Author: Citrine
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=30
0> · Genres: Drama (includes Angst): Gapfiller · ID: 465
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=20&form_story_filter=465>
Reviewer: Dwimordene
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=8>
· 2005-06-23 18:12:28 Score: 6
Another excellent short fic that peeks into the relationship of Merry and
Pippin, as they wait for the muster. That hobbity sense of
humor-in-tight-places is at work here, as is hobbit frankness when push
comes to shove. I think the best line in that regard, comes as Merry
sniffles on Pippin's shoulder, and as Pippin attempts to get him to stop,
ostensibly for fear of his armor rusting and trapping him within it, the
immortal lines are uttered:

""Or we could set you up as a statue."

"Just what the city needs," Pippin laughed, too, though his face was wet. "A
monument to a rusted hobbit!" "

That hit just the right note, as they part ways for what might have been the
last time. Well done, Citrine!


Title: Women's <http://www.henneth-annun.net/stories/chapter.cfm?STID=3040>
Work · Author: JediShampoo
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=29
2> · Genres: Drama (includes Angst): Fourth Age · ID: 430
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=20&form_story_filter=430>
Reviewer: Dwimordene
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=8>
· 2005-06-23 18:13:00 Score: 3
I rather liked the OC in this story, Elleth. She provided a fun counterpoint
to Éowyn. One does wonder what sorts of arrangements would have been made to
care for the orphans after the war, and it fits with Éowyn's dedication to
healing people of the war's hurts to want to help in that regard, and to
include the unwanted children of whores in her care.

Title: Mourning
<http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterview.asp?sid=3140&cid=12155> Cloak ·
Author: annmarwalk
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=17
7> · Genres: Drama (includes Angst): Gondor · ID: 394
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=20&form_story_filter=394>
Reviewer: Dwimordene
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=8>
· 2005-06-23 18:14:34 Score: 3
There's something refreshing about writing from irritation! I like this
portrait of Denethor, and the turning point in his life. You're right, a
Steward, as a public figure, wears the clothes that fit his office, but his
personal life seeps through in pigmentation.


[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]

Msg# 5105

Reviews Final as of 8/17/2005 part 20 Posted by Ainaechoiriel August 17, 2005 - 23:23:09 Topic ID# 5105
Title: The
<http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterview.asp?sid=3523&cid=13397> Garden of
Samwise · Author: ErinRua
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=26
7> · Genres: Drama (includes Angst): Drabble · ID: 332
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=21&form_story_filter=332>
Reviewer: Dwimordene
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=8>
· 2005-06-23 18:15:16 Score: 2
Sam's voice is nicely captured here, although I wonder at the effect sought
in the last two lines. They seem to oppose each other in interesting ways
that perhaps might want a fuller exploration.

Title: Seven Scattered
<http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterlistview.asp?SID=3545> Scrolls ·
Author: Raksha
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=17
8> the Demon · Genres: Drama (includes Angst): Gondor · ID: 323
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=21&form_story_filter=323>
Reviewer: Dwimordene
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=8>
· 2005-06-23 18:15:47 Score: 2
The two I find most intriguing of this series are the third and fourth
scenes. It's always interesting to see how the Ring might tempt people, and
I thought Gandalf's point of view in the fourth gives a sense of how Faramir
has grown.

Title: When
<http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterview.asp?sid=3577&cid=13548> One Door
Closes... · Author: GamgeeFest
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=26
9> · Genres: Drama (includes Angst): The Shire · ID: 308
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=21&form_story_filter=308>
Reviewer: Dwimordene
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=8>
· 2005-06-23 18:16:23 Score: 1
I liked the depiction of the Bagginses waking up "on the other side", in a
watery world no longer terrifying.

Title: Gathering
<http://www.henneth-annun.net/stories/chapter_view.cfm?STID=4201&SPOrdinal=1
> the Pieces · Author: Ellisande
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=26
1> · Genres: Drama (includes Angst): Gondor · ID: 291
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=21&form_story_filter=291>
Reviewer: Dwimordene
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=8>
· 2005-06-23 18:16:55 Score: 5
An interesting set of interludes. There's an interesting mirroring motif
going on throughout: how Denethor seems to others' eyes, how he seems to
Finduilas, how their son's eyes reflect his father's, how Denethor sees
Finduilas and the image of Finduilas that he reflects back to her in his
fear. For all its spareness, there is a sense of completion, and the last
interlude returns to the first. In both, Finduilas misperceives—the first
time through trusting others, and the last time, by mistrusting them. Fans
of Denethor and Finduilas should find this intriguing.

Title: Upon a Field of
<http://www.livejournal.com/users/the_danamark/20403.html> Gold · Author:
Dana
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=26
4> · Genres: Drama (includes Angst): Gondor Drabble · ID: 277
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=21&form_story_filter=277>
Reviewer: Dwimordene
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=8>
· 2005-06-23 18:19:06 Score: 6
This reminds me rather of "Life Watch", which covers much the same period of
time. Dana does a good job of breaking things up, of giving each drabble its
separate moment, then linking it up into the whole series. Merry's voice is,
throughout, well written. The exhausting work of being the one who sits by
the bedsides and keeps the sick company is given its full weight. Drabble
eleven stands out in that respect in my mind. Pippin's conversion from a
soft tween to a warrior is well and sparely depicted in drabble fourteen.
One gets a sense of the wearing away of time as one follows the drabbles
towards the series' end. A well put-together set of drabbles.

Title: Destiny
<http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterview.asp?sid=2998&cid=11569> · Author:
Cheryl
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=25
2> · Genres: Drama (includes Angst): Drabble · ID: 208
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=21&form_story_filter=208>
Reviewer: Dwimordene
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=8>
· 2005-06-23 18:21:42 Score: 1
Succinct. I particularly liked the turn of phrase about Imladris: "All the
same, yet everything changed in a mere hour."

Title: Ambush
<http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterview.asp?sid=3581&cid=13573> in
Ithilien · Author: Elena
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=24
7> Tiriel · Genres: Drama (includes Angst): Gondor Drabble · ID: 204
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=21&form_story_filter=204>
Reviewer: Dwimordene
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=8>
· 2005-06-23 18:22:23 Score: 1
Nice juxtaposition of the two Faramirs. It might be nice to see a longer
exploration of their similarities.

Title: Spring
<http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterview.asp?sid=2982&cid=11477> Planting ·
Author: Branwyn
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=24
0> · Genres: Drama (includes Angst): Gondor · ID: 170
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=21&form_story_filter=170>
Reviewer: Dwimordene
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=8>
· 2005-06-23 18:22:55 Score: 1
A nice reminder that the leavings of war are a hazard for generations to
come.

Title: Tales
<http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterview.asp?sid=371&cid=9202> of Old Wives
· Author: Lindelea
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=27
> · Books/Time: Post-Ring War: General Drabble · ID: 927
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=21&form_story_filter=927>
Reviewer: sulriel
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=7>
· 2005-06-24 21:45:25 Score: 2
What a delightful perspective - and very well done. It's always interesting
to see someone through someone else's eyes, and you've taken the reader on a
lovely little journey.

Title: Turning the
<http://www.henneth-annun.net/stories/chapter.cfm?STID=968> Page · Author:
ErinRua
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=26
7> · Books/Time: Post-Ring War: Gondor · ID: 337
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=21&form_story_filter=337>
Reviewer: sulriel
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=7>
· 2005-06-24 21:50:19 Score: 3
ErinRua, this is absolutely beautiful and heartwrenching. It gave me
goosebumps. You captured the majesty of the Age and the peace of a content
king very well. It breaks my heart to think of Eomer aged and dying, but you
gave him great dignity. Well done!

Title: Strawberry
<http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterlistview.asp?SID=3512> Fields · Author:
MysteriousWays
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=38
2> · Books/Time: Post-Ring War: Romance · ID: 870
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=21&form_story_filter=870>
Reviewer: sulriel
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=7>
· 2005-06-24 21:58:43 Score: 2
It's wonderful to read such a fun and tender love story, I enjoyed reading
about their fun and games. And how wonderful that Linwe would be there for
him during his flashbacks.

Title: The
<http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterview.asp?sid=3086&cid=11963> Colors of
Passing · Author: Larner
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=24
2> · Genres: Drama (includes Angst): Gapfiller · ID: 789
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=21&form_story_filter=789>
Reviewer: Dwimordene
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=8>
· 2005-06-25 21:10:15 Score: 2
This reads rather like a meditation on moods, all guided by colors. It won't
be everyone's cup of tea, but it's a nicely crafted exploration of Frodo's
psyche, from despair, to doubtful exhaustion, to healing—red, white and
blue.

Title: Paths for the Dead <http://gila.fakingsanity.net/lotr/pathsdead.html>
· Author: James
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=37
2> Walkswithwind · Genres: Drama (includes Angst): Fourth Age · ID: 758
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=21&form_story_filter=758>
Reviewer: Dwimordene
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=8>
· 2005-06-25 21:11:26 Score: 1
This was interesting, although I confess I rather liked the waystation part
best—it had that surreal comic sense to it.

Title: Winter <http://www.henneth-annun.net/stories/chapter.cfm?STID=2202>
Solstice · Author: Fileg
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=10
6> · Genres: Drama (includes Angst): Gapfiller · ID: 727
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=21&form_story_filter=727>
Reviewer: Dwimordene
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=8>
· 2005-06-25 21:11:55 Score: 4
Fileg gives us a short, but articulate portrait of the Fellowship as a
group, as seen through Elrond's eyes. She nicely captures that sense of
their fidelity to and fellowship in common vocation, embodied differently in
each of them, given their different lives. This line was particularly well
turned: "Sometimes a man was strongest stripped back to his fëa and his
face." This fic, too, is stripped down to the essentials, and it works well
in its spareness.

Title: The Slopes of
<http://www.henneth-annun.net/stories/chapter.cfm?STID=3921> Amon Gwareth ·
Author: Ellisande
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=26
1> · Genres: Drama (includes Angst): Poetry · ID: 715
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=21&form_story_filter=715>
Reviewer: Dwimordene
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=8>
· 2005-06-25 21:12:25 Score: 1
Evocative; the last haiku gives me a more humble(d) Maeglin than I'm used to
reading.

Title: On Hither
<http://www.henneth-annun.net/stories/chapter.cfm?STID=3913> Shores ·
Author: Ellisande
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=26
1> · Genres: Drama (includes Angst): Gondor · ID: 713
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=21&form_story_filter=713>
Reviewer: Dwimordene
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=8>
· 2005-06-25 21:13:02 Score: 2
An interesting meeting between mother and son, and it seems somehow
appropriate that Finduilas should linger for her husband beyond whatever
fate is reserved for Men, even as she faded in life.

Title: Racing with the Devil <http://www.lightindarkplaces.net/Racing.html>
· Author: Aratlithiel
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=23
1> · Genres: Drama (includes Angst): The Shire · ID: 707
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=21&form_story_filter=707>
Reviewer: Dwimordene
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=8>
· 2005-06-25 21:13:29 Score: 2
Loved this line: "What Was’ and ‘What Could Be’ are only bastard children of
Despair and Hope". It nicely captures that need to sink into the present, a
clinging to the moment against what has already been lost, and the loss that
lies still ahead.

Title: Sea <http://www.henneth-annun.net/stories/chapter.cfm?STID=4818>
Longing · Author: EdorasLass
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=29
9> · Genres: Drama (includes Angst): Gondor · ID: 699
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=21&form_story_filter=699>
Reviewer: Dwimordene
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=8>
· 2005-06-25 21:13:57 Score: 4
A very intimate portrait of Finduilas' affliction, if at one remove. The
governess' voice is well drawn, I think, able to range over all that is
needed to complete this portrait of Finduilas' suffering. Boromir and
Faramir are briefly if nicely drawn, in one of their brotherly quarrels, but
also in their calmer and more inquisitive moments. Those who struggle with
Tolkien's maddeningly enigmatic account of Finduilas' demise will surely
enjoy this.

Title: May Endure
<http://www.henneth-annun.net/stories/chapter.cfm?STID=3171> · Author:
Celandine
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=24
3> Brandybuck · Genres: Drama (includes Angst): Gondor · ID: 680
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=21&form_story_filter=680>
Reviewer: Dwimordene
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=8>
· 2005-06-25 21:15:19 Score: 4
Much foreshadowing of later events, between Denethor's private repentance
and the chilling line that Faramir remembers from "The Silmarillion".
Boromir's quick contextualizing of it seemed too neat and sudden for me, but
I thought she delivered nicely on Denethor's character: he keeps a stern
front, only to let it fall away when he thinks others aren't looking (most
especially the one he's being stern with at other times).

Title: Ashes and the Flame
<http://www.scribeoz.com/fanfic/story.php?no=1243> · Author: Ariel
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=16
2> · Genres: Drama (includes Angst): Fourth Age · ID: 677
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=21&form_story_filter=677>
Reviewer: Dwimordene
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=8>
· 2005-06-25 21:16:20 Score: 6
Very interesting take on what children mean. I am reminded of another story,
"Fell Fire", that also looked at how different peoples understand the
significance of children. That they are the form of immortality for mortals
is a constant, but the viewpoint here is inverted—it is not simply that
children continue me, but the world is given what is its due from each
couple that bears children. There's an injustice, it seems, in not having
children, in denying others a glimpse of someone who has passed on before
them, and who would otherwise be unknown to them, and had not Frodo had a
child, one might imagine Aragorn getting possessed by the ghost of
Shakespeare and writing instead: "Pity the world or else this glutton be,/To
eat the world's due, by the grave and thee".

Title: Deific <http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterlistview.asp?SID=1564>
Flame · Author: Bejai
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=23
6> · Genres: Drama (includes Angst): Incomplete · ID: 672
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=21&form_story_filter=672>
Reviewer: Dwimordene
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=8>
· 2005-06-25 21:16:54 Score: 8
I think the truly impressive part about this story is just how much time the
author is covering, without creating a story that is completely disjointed.
Over two milennia of the Second Age have already been covered, and there's
still more to come before the Third Age. Using Celeborn and Galadriel as the
central characters undoubtedly helps, as the story feels episodic on an
Elvish time scale. Nevertheless, this story may be less approachable for
those without a fairly firm grasp on the material from "Unfinished Tales",
and having the Tale of Years at hand as a guide is helpful.

Celeborn is given the most prominence in the story, or at least, he seems to
be the character whose personality feels most complete, although other
characters are used as points of view, including the little-known Amroth,
Sauron, and a future Ringwraith. The classic problem of evil haunts this
story, and appropriately so, although it never gets brought to the forefront
for long. One wonders what Celeborn's rejection of theodicy will ultimately
amount to, in terms of the journey his character undergoes. I look forward
to the completion of the tale.


Title: Taur <http://www.nancybrooke.com/tauringem.htm> Ingem · Author:
Nancy
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=10
5> Brooke · Genres: Drama (includes Angst): Drabble · ID: 629
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=21&form_story_filter=629>
Reviewer: Dwimordene
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=8>
· 2005-06-25 21:17:21 Score: 1
This is rather an empty spot in FOTR. Nice connection of Théoden's state
with Denethor's accelerated aging.

Title: Gríma Goldentongue <http://www.scribeoz.com/fanfic/story.php?no=1551>
· Author: Lackwit
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=34
2> · Genres: Drama (includes Angst) · ID: 625
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=21&form_story_filter=625>
Reviewer: Dwimordene
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=8>
· 2005-06-25 21:17:48 Score: 7
Grima is such a tricky character to write, coming as late as we do to his
story and with only Gandalf's assurance that once upon a time, Gríma was not
a worm but a man who served his king as well as he knew how. This fic
follows a few others I have seen, in making Gríma not much of a warrior, and
it gives him a logical connection to Saruman, as well as showing the chink
in his armor that will allow him to be twisted. This story is right at the
turning point, where desire and a certain kind of ascetic barrenness combine
and blossom into ambition and anger. Appropriately, it is also at, one might
say, his moment of greatest triumph—recognized by his king and the woman he
would have love him. For one moment, he can see a better future for himself
and he in letting himself dream, he overreaches himself and makes the fatal
error of seeing Éowyn as something to be won, as a rightful ornament to his
life. With that, love's undone, though he believes he chases it still. Well
done!

Title: Just in <http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterlistview.asp?SID=3082>
Case · Author: Marnie
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=24
5> · Books/Time: Gap-Filler · ID: 477
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=21&form_story_filter=477>
Reviewer: LOTR_lover
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=18
4> · 2005-06-26 09:09:00 Score: 5
You get into Celeborn's head better than anyone else I know. Your Celeborn
is the definitive Celeborn, as far as I'm concerned. Of course he was
tempted by the ring, just as much as Galadriel was. I love the way you show
it insinuating itself, even until Celeborn thinks: "Annatar was right." Was
that a cold shower or what!? I was almost as shocked as he was just as I
read that sentence. And then snapping at the young elf guard, and then
apologizing so well that the young one felt comfortable enough to crack the
joke about an arrow in his kneecap. Wonderful story.

Title: Mae
<http://www.tolkienfanfiction.com/Story_Read_Chapter.php?CHid=1123&PHPSESSID
=81bbdff5479eba252b785634d85ebade> Govannen · Author: Azalais
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=18
7> · Books/Time: Gap-Filler: Drabble · ID: 148
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=21&form_story_filter=148>
Reviewer: LOTR_lover
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=18
4> · 2005-06-26 09:22:31 Score: 3
A lovely drabble, showing the wonderful Glorfindel in all his glory. Alas
that we don't know much about him except for his death in the Silmarillion
and Unfinished Tales, and his rescue of Frodo in LotR. (Yes, I am a staunch
believer in one reborn Glorfindel). This poignant drabble does a great job
of showing Aragorn's relief at seeing help arrive, too.


[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]

Msg# 5106

Reviews Final as of 8/17/2005 part 21 Posted by Ainaechoiriel August 17, 2005 - 23:24:09 Topic ID# 5106
Title: The <http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterview.asp?sid=1865&cid=7778>
Return · Author: Elana
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=51
> · Books/Time: Post-Ring War: Ithilien Drabble · ID: 295
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=22&form_story_filter=295>
Reviewer: sulriel
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=7>
· 2005-06-26 17:44:46 Score: 2
A lovely thought that Faramir could take Eowyn to that place without a
blindfold. I'm sure it was the location of many a restless night. I'm sure
their night was more pleasant.

Title: Triptych
<http://www.livejournal.com/users/scribendi/6882.html#cutid1> · Author:
simbelmyne
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=41
5> · Races/Places: Rohan: Romance · ID: 901
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=22&form_story_filter=901>
Reviewer: Marta
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=16
> · 2005-06-26 22:29:35 Score: 9
There's something about this triple-drabble. It almost reminds me, in the
vaguest of ways, of the monastic prayers said at specific points during the
day and night. It just has that naturalness, a very un-rushed quality. It's
beautiful.

Also, hurrah for some Boromir/Théodred! I have always wanted to write a
story using the two of those as a drabble pair. I have never written a slash
story, but if there's any pairing that I can see working canonically this
would be it. Not just compatible with canon, but actually encouraged by two
facts: the quote about Boromir being a man after the sort of Earnur, and the
fact that Théodred was so late in taking a wife (especially given the
shorter lifespan of the Rohirrim).

My only qualm is the two seem to be entirely too comfortable with each
other, given the fact that Éomer says that Boromir did not often travel to
Rohan, always being busy with the wars on the eastern borders. On the other
hand Boromir was given a horse, which a long-standing relationship with
Théodred might have encouraged. This story is certainly not impossible, just
not completely how I imagine the two of their's relationship. Regardless,
it's fine writing and accomplishes an astounding amount for such a short
space.

Title: Morwen and
<http://www.henneth-annun.net/stories/chapter.cfm?STID=1806> Eredh · Author:
Chris
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=25
7> · Races/Places: Rohan: Romance · ID: 1059
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=22&form_story_filter=1059>
Reviewer: Marta
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=16
> · 2005-06-26 22:32:06 Score: 3
This is a delicious tale: an ordinary man and woman on an ordinary day, yet
the story keeps from being mundane. The love between them is palpable, but
so are the demands that vie to keep them apart (at least until sunset) --
which of course is true of real life. It was nice to see that captured.

Title: Gathering of
<http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterlistview.asp?SID=3083> the Grey Company
· Author: Leaward
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=22
2> · Books/Time: Gap-Filler: Grey Company · ID: 171
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=22&form_story_filter=171>
Reviewer: Bodkin
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=41
1> · 2005-06-27 04:06:05 Score: 3
I am working my way back through Tarkil's story - and I found this
particularly touching. There were so few of the northern Rangers to ride to
Aragorn's aid - and of those at Rivendell, none but his foster brothers. It
is good to see Halbarad leading his men on what must have seemed a last
hope.

Title: All
<http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterview.asp?sid=2929&cid=11235> Hallows'
Day · Author: Marnie
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=24
5> · Books/Time: Post-Ring War · ID: 317
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=22&form_story_filter=317>
Reviewer: Bodkin
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=41
1> · 2005-06-27 04:14:39 Score: 3
Absolutely brilliant. The description of Celeborn - shining and outlined by
the rain, calling the fire to him - is shiveringly impressive, and the
contrast between the prosaic and the mystical is so well done. And, either
side, the words of Elmo - beginning and ending with his eyes. I find this a
most powerful piece of writing.

Title: Dolor Meus
<http://www.henneth-annun.net/stories/chapter.cfm?STID=5032> · Author:
Werecat
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=83
> · Books/Time: Post-Ring War · ID: 897
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=22&form_story_filter=897>
Reviewer: Bodkin
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=41
1> · 2005-06-27 04:19:24 Score: 3
I love this story. I am developing a strong sympathy for Maglor and think
that this shows so well his tormented personality, and offers him the
redemption he seeks. Radagast, with his overtones of Saint Francis, is the
perfect emissary to send Maglor home.

Title: The
<http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterview.asp?sid=3540&cid=13461> Long
Defeat · Author: Perelleth
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=46
5> · Books/Time: Post-Ring War: Aman · ID: 1213
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=22&form_story_filter=1213>
Reviewer: Bodkin
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=41
1> · 2005-06-27 04:32:22 Score: 4
'He was lost in a world of grey'. This is such an evocative description of
Celeborn's despair as the world for which he has fought is wrenched from
him. I love the way he is immediately aware of the health of the forest
around him as he awakes - and that it is his continual struggle that has
brought about the beauty around him. And I always like to see him reunited
with Galadriel!

Title: Seeds of Old
<http://www.henneth-annun.net/stories/chapter.cfm?STID=4440> Trees · Author:
Marnie
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=24
5> · Books/Time: Post-Ring War: Aman · ID: 478
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=22&form_story_filter=478>
Reviewer: Bodkin
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=41
1> · 2005-06-27 04:33:22 Score: 5
Such a good story. So interesting - from Celeborn's arrival, through his
reunion with Elu Thingol and Melian, his meeting with Amroth and Nimrodel
and their new son, his grandsons, the eagle and his eventual painful reunion
with Galadriel, the story is such an emotional journey. I am glad they
overcame their initial difficulties and that Galadriel was able to admit -
to herself at least - that she needed Celeborn. I found the idea of the
Straight Path fascinating - as was the idea of the elves moving on and
continuing to explore. Well written, inventive and satisfying.

Title: Bare Feet and
<http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterlistview.asp?SID=2945> Beer · Author:
Gwynnyd
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=18
6> · Books/Time: Post-Ring War: Gondor · ID: 571
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=22&form_story_filter=571>
Reviewer: Bodkin
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=41
1> · 2005-06-27 04:48:07 Score: 3
This is a lovely Faramir and Aragorn friendship story and they must both
have needed friends rather badly at this point - and between them they have
the skills required to stitch up the whole of Gondor's power structure. It
is amusing and touching and heart-warming and I enjoyed every word.

Title: Valour Without
<http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterlistview.asp?SID=1864> Renown · Author:
Forodwaith
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=50
> · Books/Time: Post-Ring War: Incomplete · ID: 737
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=22&form_story_filter=737>
Reviewer: Bodkin
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=41
1> · 2005-06-27 04:57:36 Score: 3
This is a very interesting story from the point of view of one who is not
central to the main story. Elfled is a fascinating character and the story
develops a good view of Rohan and the complexities of life there. I can't
wait to find out more about Elfled's ultimate fate.

Title: The Road to
<http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterlistview.asp?SID=3578> Edoras · Author:
Dreamflower
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=11
5> · Books/Time: Post-Ring War: Incomplete · ID: 872
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=22&form_story_filter=872>
Reviewer: Bodkin
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=41
1> · 2005-06-27 04:59:28 Score: 2
An interesting follow up story - the characters are interesting and the
story well-developed. I look forward to finding out more about their fate as
they move towards Edoras.

Title: All For Her
<http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterlistview.asp?SID=1492> · Author:
SoundOfHorns
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=41
4> · Books/Time: Post-Ring War: Incomplete · ID: 899
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=22&form_story_filter=899>
Reviewer: Bodkin
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=41
1> · 2005-06-27 05:01:22 Score: 3
This is a long story with very long chapters - and it has grown on me as it
progresses. I find the inclusion of 'Rohirric' is an interesting aspect -
and am glad that, at long last, Eomer and Faramir have overcome their early
difficulties. I look forward to more.

Title: Trust to Hope, Book
<http://www.scribeoz.com/fanfic/story.php?no=1105> Two · Author: Novedhelion
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=49
4> · Books/Time: Post-Ring War: Incomplete · ID: 1295
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=22&form_story_filter=1295>
Reviewer: Bodkin
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=41
1> · 2005-06-27 05:04:04 Score: 1
Enjoyable continuation of the saga. More please.

Title: Truth and
<http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterlistview.asp?SID=2794> Consequences ·
Author: Mariposa
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=27
0> · Books/Time: Post-Ring War: Shire · ID: 837
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=22&form_story_filter=837>
Reviewer: Bodkin
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=41
1> · 2005-06-27 05:15:18 Score: 3
I just love the whole concept of this - not to mention the humour and style.
It is just so very hobbity. Of course the men of Gondor would write tomes of
history and children's stories and poems about the war and the halflings -
and of course those who are the subject of the tales would have a job taking
them too seriously. Just as well really. Good story.

Title: While
<http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterview.asp?sid=3266&cid=12450> There's
Breath · Author: Lindelea
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=27
> · Books/Time: Post-Ring War: Shire · ID: 1277
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=22&form_story_filter=1277>
Reviewer: Bodkin
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=41
1> · 2005-06-27 05:20:39 Score: 3
I like this. Pippin and Ferdi definitely needed something like this to
overcome the - shall we say - hiccups in their early relationship as Thain
and escort. And that dwarf breathing proves very useful. I am very fond of
this whole cycle of stories in Lindelea world - and not just because Ferdi
is my favourite hobbit.

Title: Tangled Web
<http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterlistview.asp?SID=2055> · Author: daw
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=17
6> the minstrel · Books/Time: The Hobbit · ID: 151
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=22&form_story_filter=151>
Reviewer: Bodkin
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=41
1> · 2005-06-27 05:26:42 Score: 4
Brilliant. Well written. Well researched. Fits in perfectly with the events
of the Hobbit and provides the Wood Elves viewpoint of the events. In
addition to liking the characterisations of the elves, I also rather took to
Bilbo - and Bard. And I have to say yet again - poor, poor Sinnarn. The
ending was full of promise - and the whole story combined humour, adventure
and grief effectively.

Title: A Short <http://www.henneth-annun.net/stories/chapter.cfm?STID=4400>
Rest · Author: Jay
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=13
4> of Lasgalen · Books/Time: The Hobbit · ID: 428
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=22&form_story_filter=428>
Reviewer: Bodkin
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=41
1> · 2005-06-27 05:33:42 Score: 2
This is a fun story - I can see Estel finding Bilbo absolutely fascinating.
And it is good to see Elladan and Elrohir on form with their little foster
brother. And so dwarf women do have beards?

Title: The Tide of
<http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterlistview.asp?SID=890> Times · Author:
daw
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=17
6> the minstrel · Books/Time: The Hobbit · ID: 681
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=22&form_story_filter=681>
Reviewer: Bodkin
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=41
1> · 2005-06-27 05:37:10 Score: 2
Excellent. Again. I like Legolas on the verge of adulthood - so determined
to be grown up. His words at Annael's father's funeral are very touching.
Another good part of the saga.

Title: High
<http://www.henneth-annun.net/challenge/chapter.cfm?STID=4473&NGID=203>
Flight · Author: Jay
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=13
4> of Lasgalen · Books/Time: The Hobbit: Vignette · ID: 419
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=reviewsBrowse&show_all=n
o&navbar_page=0&markpage=22&form_story_filter=419>
Reviewer: Bodkin
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=41
1> · 2005-06-27 05:43:35 Score: 2
I like seeing the eagles discuss battle and their participation in great
events. This is an excellent and impressive point of view. And touching.

Title: Intertwined <http://www.fanfiction.net/s/2290190/1/> · Author: Karri
<http://gabrielle.sytes.net/MEFA2005/index.php?page=authorDetails&form_id=10
7> · Books/Time: The Lord of The Rings · ID: 105
<