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The Great Escape  by jenolas 59 Review(s)
LKKReviewed Chapter: 9 on 6/30/2004
I finally got a chance to read the last 3 chapters, jenolas. I'm glad I waited until I had real time to devote myself to them. They deserved it. I like the ease with which you present each chapter. There's a feeling of confidence in them. Nothing's rushed or belabored. Very typical of your writing as a whole. I thoroughly enjoyed this story which has a very light elven merry-making feel without falling into the silly nature so many seem to think elves should possess.

Good job! :)

Author Reply: "Elven-merrymaking" (with an adult approach to fun rather than childishness) is exactly the mood I was trying to convey and I can't tell you how good it is to hear that it was recognised as such. Thanks!

Also thanks for your comments on my writing. I often find that as I start a story, it takes on a life of it's own, and I just let the characters do as they will, at whatever pace they want. It is great fun, especially when playing/working with elves.

jenolas

* Elvenstar *Reviewed Chapter: 9 on 6/26/2004
please tell me this is not the end of this story. i can hardly wait the outcome. i did not see "the end" at the bottom of the last page. it isn't finished...right? thanks,
* Elvenstar *

Author Reply: Unfortunately this is the final chapter, but I am glad you liked the story enough to want more.

Reviewed Chapter: 9 on 6/22/2004
I think that you really are a gifted writer, the way you put my mind into almost being in the story, makes me smile. Especially the part of mischiefs the two brothers had done and backfired.

Keep it up and hope to read more from you.

Bedivere

Author Reply: Thanks, it is a lovely compliment to hear you almost felt as if you were part of the story as you read it.

DotReviewed Chapter: 9 on 6/17/2004
Ah, jenolas. A perfect ending.

I loved the opening paragraph - what a wonderful depiction of Minas Tirith preparing for the day's activities. And oh the excitement at the thought of seeing the elves! What a picture it must have made, the three stately elves riding through the streets. I don't know how many times your descriptions have made me wish that I was artistic enough to draw the scene but sadly I'm not... But then, I doubt even the best artist could compete with your amazing gift for creating startlingly vivid images. "When heads were bowed with respect as the elder Elves passed, they politely acknowledged in kind, the smiles in their bright eyes speaking to all of their warm and gentle hearts." Lovely!

It made me smile that the three could hear the whispers of the crowd, and it offered an excuse too for Erestor and Celeborn to torment Glorfindel a little more! Ai, that smile of Glorfindel's must have ruined the chances of the men of Minas Tirith to win the ladies' hearts!

I had a bit of a giggle at the total contrast in the reception they get at the palace. Elrond does seem slightly put-out by the fact that all the Elves disappeared and I'd say Glorfindel is right that Elrond may be wishing he'd joined in the fun. But then, his concern for Erestor is so genuine and deeply touching that I'm inclined to believe he was just worried about how he was faring.

"Indeed he was, but how am I to accomplish all that still needs to be done if you insist on depriving me of assistants?” Well, I guess I can't really blame Arwen for feeling this way, I suppose. Actually, I'd probably be a little paranoid if I were her! Luckily, she's much more good-natured than I am and forgives easily;-)

“I would be only too pleased to assist with your wedding, even in a small way." Poor Erestor. The break obviously did him some good but of course his feelings of being left-out would flood back again once he returned. I'm glad Arwen realises how he feels. It didn't dawn on me that she'd feel the same longing for things to be done as they would have been in Imladris. But it seems that she's hit upon the perfect task for him! What an incredible idea, to write a personal account of the wedding. It's clearly something that Erestor would love to do for her and not only will she and Aragorn cherish it, and indeed their descendents, but it just goes to show how much they love and respect Erestor to ask him to be responsible for something so intimate. You've brought this story full circle and it's so great to see Erestor happy and fulfilled again. Methinks you're fond of that elf!

I had to laugh at the antics of Elladan and Elrohir as they rode through the city. Who knows, perhaps they'll even replace a certain golden-haired elf lord in the affections of the maidens!

So Lindir isn't betrothed yet... But all the Elves will be *so* disappointed not to have another wedding to go to!!

Beautiful closing image. No doubt Legolas will be mortified, but it's so fitting. I loved this story, jenolas and as always I eagerly look forward to more from you:-)


Author Reply: Me? Fond of the gorgeous ebony-haired, dark-haired scholar with a dry wit and a heart of gold? Whatever gave you that idea, Dot?

I think that the maidens might see Elladan and Elrohir as slightly more'attainable' since their sister has chosen a mortal love. They probably have a better chance with these two than with the Elves, I agree.

Thanks again for your insightful and witty reviews. I really enjoy them and appreciate that you take the time to write them.

lwarrenReviewed Chapter: 9 on 6/17/2004
*sniffle* What a lovely ending! Ai, a tribute to Legolas (he's certainly my hero, or couldn't you tell?) Well, a noble entrance for the three elder elves, befitting their position, and a rowdy entrance for the younger elves, why am I not surprised! The scene between Arwen and Erestor was so sweet and sad; she certainly knew how to heal his hurt feelings and make sure he knows his place in her heart. Just a satisfying, somewhat bittersweet ending to a great story! I thoroughly enjoyed catching up on the last chapters!

linda

Author Reply: I am pleased you liked the ending and really appreciate your comments and feedback.

lwarrenReviewed Chapter: 9 on 6/17/2004
Well, after much hand-clasping (and kissing *snort,choke,gasp*), back-slapping, and elven male bonding (a beautiful sight :D), the contest has been called a draw! Had to laugh at the elders once again getting the best of the younglings; they didn't know what had happened...and Haldir and Legolas were priceless in their unbelief! :-) So, Arwen is not mad, Lindir is smitten, and another wedding looms in the future of our intrepid elven warriors! Can they stand the strain? Doubtful! LOL Neat story...I hate to see it end!

linda

Author Reply: Well, they have to return to the city some time...although I imagine they are temtped to simply remain where they are..in tranquil safety :)

lwarrenReviewed Chapter: 8 on 6/17/2004
What a lovely description of the evening in your beginning paragraph! No wonder the elves wanted some time away from the city. After all the playing and fun of the afternoon, the fact of their short time remaining on ME is really never far from their minds, it seems. Especially the three elder elves here. I always thought of the elves leaving kind of like Sam does ..."It makes me sad..." (Actually, tears are not unknown when I read about it!) I never thought about when Erestor sailed, but it makes sense he would go with Elrond and Glorfindel (who definitely needs a leash, and a keeper! LOL) This was a sad little interlude, very effective and affecting, as you wrote it in the midst of all the merrymaking. I loved Celeborn's enthusiasm about helping Legolas with Ithilien...he is certainly a forester at heart! And I loved the way the trees were excited about the Firstborn returning to them...elves and trees...*sigh*...I never get tired of reading about the way they speak to and care for each other. Now, Mithrandir to the rescue (of all stained fingers)...It seems the party is really gearing up, now that the wizard has joined them ! :D Well done!

linda

Author Reply: Yes, I feel the Elves are looking to their future with some sadness for the world they will be leaving behind.

Mithrandir, never one to miss a good party!

lwarrenReviewed Chapter: 7 on 6/17/2004
Allllllriiiiight! Frolicking elves and water and splashing and dunking Haldir - and fresh fish by a campfire surrounded by said elves!!!! *deeeeeep sigh* (of course I won't mention the absence of swimming apparel :D) *hyperventilates at the thought* Great chapter, jenolas, am really enjoying the fun!

linda

Author Reply: Some things are best left to your (ahem...overactive) imagination. Glad you are joining in the fun.

lwarrenReviewed Chapter: 6 on 6/17/2004
Can I join G and E's reading club, do you think? *g* They have such a nice relationship - as you said, more like brothers. Now those twins, you'd think that over the centuries they would learn not to mess with the "big dogs", but I guess not! :D Isn't it amazing how the threat of their daernaneth's displeasure sobered those two up? Bad Erestor! LOL

linda

Author Reply: Bad Erestor can read to me any time he likes!

I guess the younger ones can simply not resist the challenge!

BodkinReviewed Chapter: 9 on 6/16/2004
Bet Legolas hated being the subject of a song.

Love your description of the effect the elves have on the citizens of Minas Tirith - and their response, from cool dignity to the twins playing to the audience.

And the slightly miffed but forgiving Elrond and Arwen.

Author Reply: I am sure Legolas was suitably embarrassed at least on the outside, but maybe inwardly pleased and proud.

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