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Lúthien's Gift  by Fiondil 13 Review(s)
InglorReviewed Chapter: 4 on 2/3/2006
I don't think I have read a better, more well thought through, well spun connection to the present than this one. In the hands of a lesser writer this would have been an interesting read, but you brought it to life and took me there, made it believable. I was only sorry it ended so soon

Some of your points are very subtle and some are like thunderclaps. Your writing is elegant in the strict definition of the word, concise and efficient.

I was/am/are moved.

One word comes to mind: Profound


This story is why I keep reading fanfic.

Inglor

Author Reply: Glad you enjoyed the story. In some ways it was not an easy story to write, as I didn't want it to be too sappy the way some "religious" stories can be and of course writing about the Valar can be tricky. On the other hand, some parts sort of wrote themselves and Manwë himself insisted on having a say about things. Very difficult to argue with a Vala, especially THIS Vala!

"I was only sorry it ended so soon."

But then, the story never really ends, does it?

lwarrenReviewed Chapter: 4 on 2/3/2006
This was such a wonderful connection of scriptural events to Tolkien's world! I am amazed at the way you tied all together. And Melian danced again! I can hardly blame her - the message she carried to Miriam would be cause for rejoicing! I must say I enjoyed the author notes at the end as well - and the names for Melian's escort were perfect! Also, I, too, agree that Eru would not be so insensitive to think a male appropriate to deliver this message to a young girl like Miriam. You have done such a good job of blending scripture, history, and Tolkien - I didn't find anything in this offensive in the least. Again, your use of language (in this case, Hebrew) was inspired. And to Melian, the resemblance in form and voice of Miriam to Luthien must have been the final verification of the will of Iluvatar in every aspect of Luthien's life. I liked Melian's realization that nothing in life ever happens by chance - she couldn't see the 'big picture' until now. How wonderful Iluvatar would speak directly to her! A wonderful (can I possibly use that word again?) story, Fiondil. I am only sorry it is over. Thank you for sharing it with us.

linda

Author Reply: Well I'm glad the ending was all you hoped it to be. Alassiel loved the story but then she's prejudiced *grin*. I enjoyed writing it. It's the most fun I've had in some time.

"I liked Melian's realization that nothing in life ever happens by chance - she couldn't see the 'big picture' until now."

It just goes to show that even the Maiar and Valar, as created beings, cannot always "see" things the way they are and have to learn through experience just like the rest of Eru's Children.

NilmandraReviewed Chapter: 4 on 2/3/2006
I am glad you posted this without waiting for me (sorry, my inbox is full and this afternoon is my first day away from work in weeks).

I love your rendition of Melian returning to Aman and her welcome by the Valar and Maiar.. and her life there, and being chosen to be the angel bearing the news to Mary. For all that Mary withstood, surely she did have an angel watching over her.

Very nice tying of events of scripture to Tolkien's world.

Author Reply: I'm just glad I was able to figure out how to post a story on my own! The learning curve on modern technology gets a little steeper every year it seems.

I'm glad you enjoyed the story.

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