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Branwyn's Bric-à-Brac  by Branwyn 4 Review(s)
LarnerReviewed Chapter: 29 on 11/13/2007
Ah--a wonderful look at one of the details from LOTR, that black horses had consistently been stolen from the Rohirrim by the folk of Mordor to serve Sauron's needs. How did I miss this one?

Author Reply: I always wondered about the fate of those horses. The poor things would have hated it in Mordor (not that anyone would like it there). Thanks so much for reviewing!

annmarwalkReviewed Chapter: 29 on 8/26/2007
A sneak preview of your upcoming MEFA review, because I love this drabble with the fierce power of a thousand burning suns.

When I first began to write, I was taught this definition of a drabble: “A complete story, told in exactly 100 words, with a twist or kick at the end.” By that standard (or just about any other imaginable), "Blackest Fate" is as perfect a drabble as can be.

We are immediately pulled into the story of the two prisoners and their torment. But who are they? Who are their captors? The words black-haired men are troubling: surely neither elves nor dark-haired men of Numenorean descent would treat their captives so. Would they?

The mood changes fleetingly in the second paragraph, as the prisoners seek consolation in shared memories of happier times. If there is anywhere a lovelier phrase than resting where clear water washed the flat stones, I don’t think I’ve encountered it. Galloping through the grass as it bowed before the wind finally gives us a hint as to the identity of the prisoners and the dark forces who have captured them.

Reaching through the bars, each gently searched for the other’s face…

There's achingly lovely imagery here, as the mysterious prisoners exchange compassion and encouragement, until the black muzzles brushed together. Then pow! as the identity of the prisoners is finally revealed. I had to stop, catch my breath, then read it all again.

Dead to their Riders and kindred, at least they two could share this evil doom. Honorable, courageous, and loyal, Branwyn’s Rohirric steeds are just as heroic and unforgettable as their Riders. An amazing piece of writing. *stands and applauds the wondrous Branwyn*


Linda HoylandReviewed Chapter: 29 on 4/28/2007
The poor horses !Very sad and beautiful.

Raksha The DemonReviewed Chapter: 29 on 4/27/2007
Waaaahhhh! The poor horsies!

So sad, but beautifully written.

Gonna go and hug my own little furry quadruped, even though she's canine, not equine.

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