Reviews (114)

Marnie · 12 October 2003 · Chapter 21: The War

Yay! I loved this chapter! Of course...it had Celeborn in, and that alone was a great draw for me :) But I really enjoyed seeing Finarfin meet his family - he had quite a presence about him, didn't he ;) And I was really touched by Elrond's coming of age ceremony - I liked the way they dumped him in the river, but also the fact that both halfs of his heritage were involved. And it's so obvious already how the two brothers are drawing apart, just from the accident of who they're working with and where they feel most at home. It no longer seems like a jarring choice so much as an inevitability - amazingly well done! But I do wish I knew what Finarfin had said ;D

Fadesintothewest · 12 October 2003 · Chapter 21: The War

So we meet Finarfin and I loved Celeborn's greeting, yes you King of the Noldor, that was great! I was touched by Elrond's coming of age ceremony and Celeborn and Gil-Galad's thoughtfulness, but was equally saddened by the fact that Elros did not have the same, nor want the same ceremony. It was as if his coming of age was when he became leader to the men.

Fadesintothewest · 12 October 2003 · Chapter 20: Preparing for War

Elrond fangirl #2 here! You know when I imagine Elros and Elrond, they invariably look different, and your story has awlays captured this. Oh no the War of Wrath cometh... Three cheers for the Green Elves, and for Elrond and his negotiating capacities. But Elros and Elrond's choices are soon coming to them, and I think I will cry.

LKK · 11 October 2003 · Chapter 21: The War

Most informative, Nilmandra, and highly entertaining! I made it through The Silmarillion once but have never attempted it again. But your story has made me want to tackle it again. (Now, I just have to track down my copy.) How much of the initiation ceremony is canon and how much is your wonderful invention? I liked the parallel initiation rites for Elros and Elrond. Even though Elros' rite of passage was not formal and a result of necessity, it was obvious you intended it to parallel Elrond's. Great chapter, Nilmandra. I repeat what I said in an earlier review: I'm learning so much! LKK

Bejai · 11 October 2003 · Chapter 21: The War

Another beautiful and brilliant installment. This fills in a time that Tolkien just didn't tell us much about. My favorite bits: Young Elrond hearing the stories of Glorfindel before he returned. Finarfin's meeting with the elves of Middle Earth. Just the other day I was wondering what kind of reunion that would have been, especially between Finarfin and Celeborn. It makes me wonder if Finarfin saw his daughter before he returned to Aman. This line to them was interesting: "Together we shall defeat Morgoth and you shall know what it is to live in peace.” Yeah, for a while. I love how you are slowly drawing Elros and Elrond differently, and setting up the rationale for their different choices. And the stories that Elrond would not tell his boys! Someday he'll probably tell them, but not now. Dragons and Balrogs should be exciting to little elflings. Interesting about Elrond wondering about his fate before his decision: the halls of Mandos or the mysterious fate of men? I'm sure that those who loved him worried about the same thing while he was hurt. Looking forward to the next installment of this wonderful epic

daw the minstrel · 11 October 2003 · Chapter 21: The War

This chapter showed some important moments for both Elros and Elrond. I thought Elros's battle scene was nicely rendered here. You put us in the middle of it. And I loved the coming of age ceremony for Elrond. You balanced the humorous and serious aspects of it perfectly. I think I love Gil-Galad.

khazar-khum · 8 October 2003 · Chapter 3: The Silmarillion for Elflings Part II

You could easily call these 2 chapters Silmarillion for Dummies--even I was able to follow that story! ;-D As for the twins--they're kids. Babies all play, all have things to learn, and all try the patience of their elders at some point. What I'm saying is, they act like kids, and that is perfectly normal.

TolkienFan · 2 October 2003 · Chapter 20: Preparing for War

Hi Nilmandra, I just figured out how to submit reviews. Please pardon me for not telling you this before, but I really look forward to each installment of History Lessons. In the past, I haven't really paid a lot of attention to the pre-Third Age history of Middle Earth, but this story is one of a small handful which have piqued my interest in earlier eras. And, your characters just feel so right and natural to me. Their interactions have the tang of real life, almost as if they were part of my family. Thank you for sharing your wonderful writing talents with the world!

daw the minstrel · 1 October 2003 · Chapter 20: Preparing for War

This kind of epic event must be very difficult to write about. The arrival of the Valar was thrilling, and it was inspiring to see Gil-Galad as a leader who could draw men and Elves to him. What a charismatic figure he must have been. But my favorite part of this chapter is still the scene in the tent, when Elrond is so tired and Gil-Galad seeks his opinion without giving any indication of what's going on. Elrond handled himself well, especially for one so young. Gil-Galad is really working him hard!

Levade · 1 October 2003 · Chapter 20: Preparing for War

This was a tough chapter to write I bet. No, it doesn't show in the story, but it shows in the care you took in making certain the details were as correct as possible. And it is a detailed chapter. I have to tell you, it gave me a thrill when I got to the part where Cirdan hollers for them, and they run out to see the Host of the Valar marching forth! What I wouldn't give to have PJ show that in a movie!! Ah well, my poor imagination will have to do until *someone* gets brave enough to tackle the Silmarillion, but that was truly a visual moment in the story. Elros is endearing -- rather like a puppy. *g* He's all go, go, go and wriggle. Elrond tries so hard, and is also endearing, but I keep reminding myself neither of them is perfect. They're young, they made mistakes. They were fortunate, blessed, to have Gil-galad and Cirdan there to guide them. I can't wait to see if they meet up with their former ...mmm..what shall we call them? Oh, and how Maglor must have quailed to see the Valar come forth, both fearing and loving them. This is one of your strongest chapters, storywise, I think. You have great characters, as always, but I can see the care you took in mapping out the different things going on, and making sure they were included correctly. Of course, I look forward to more! Despite the fact that my beloved Glorfindel was *whispers* quite gone by then. ;) Perhaps he was readying a return? Sneaking out whilst Namo was occupied? Uh-huh,...that would be your style, Glorfindel.... Chomping at the bit to get back in the game. Ciao! Levade

Anonymous · 1 October 2003 · Chapter 19: Making Plans

Oh, btw, I think you have a few Sillmarils in chapter 4.

Anonymous · 1 October 2003 · Chapter 19: Making Plans

First of all, this is a Great Story. I first discovered it rather late yesterday evening, and I was still reading at 1:30am... I came back to finish it earlier this afternoon, but I had other things to do before I could review properly. So.. The quality of your writing is absolutely superb, and the characters are gorgeous, they're so vivid. I can almost see them in front of me as I read. Doesn't hurt that you have almost all my favorite elves here either. The style and the language that you use is enjoyable and immediately understandable, unlike several passages of the Silmarillion I can think of... ;) The occasional word of Elvish dropped in really adds to the prose, although I am glad you stopped putting the translations in at the , that interrupted the flow a bit. (It reminded me I was reading a story - I tend to forget when I'm absorbed.) If you want the translations with the words, might I suggest you put them inside the speech marks with what the character is saying? (eg. "Come here, ion-nín, my son," Elrond beckoned to them.) Just a thought. Both the present and the past of your tale are equally enjoyable, and the transitions are very well designed and fit together nicely. Humour and sadness are both written exceptionally, never seeming forced or unlikely. I think the best of your writing is in showing us what the characters are feeling, from Elrohir's impatience and temptation in the last chapter, to Elrond's heartbreak at the end of ch5. Beautifully done! And that scene in the library! I was sitting here giggling away to myself. Thankyou for letting me in to watch the lives of two such adorable pairs of elflings. More, more!

Mirkwoodmaiden · 21 September 2003 · Chapter 3: The Silmarillion for Elflings Part II

Nilmandra! I do so love this story. Little Elladan and Elrohir are priceless, and when you read the story you really feel the love that Elrond bears for his two young sons and his passionate desire to provide for them all the love and security that he lacked as a young Elfling. I laughed out loud at Elladan's grasp of the family tree! Well, it's pretty much true too! Your grasp of the Silmarillon is helping to sort in some order the things I remember from my first and (to date) only reading of the Sil. Thanks, MM

Fadesintothewest · 19 September 2003 · Chapter 19: Making Plans

Like waiting in anticipation for the gifts Santa Clause leaves on x-mas morning! That is what Elrohir's anticipation reminded me of. The more I read about Glorfindel, the more I want to know about him. That darn Elf just snakes his way in and doesnt want to leave! It is interesting to see an older Elrond reflecting on his past, or exchanging verbal spats with Glorfindel, in contrast with the younger Elrond. I enjoy reading the younger Elrond, his eagerness, his curiousity, his relationship with Elros. It makes his pain in the "present" of the story more poignant. You really do feel his pain, his anger when Galadriel mentions that like Elrond was simply and Elf, Elros was simply a man. Ai how tragic! Er you brought some interesting images to mind- in comparing the differences in bodily hair of an elf, a man, and the half-elven... very interesting.

Mirkwoodmaiden · 16 September 2003 · Chapter 2: The Silmarillion for Elflings

"He was jealous. Even though Morgoth, then called Melkor, was one of the most powerful of the Valar, he was jealous of the other Valar and that which they created. He turned to destroying the good things they made instead of adding his own good things to Arda." Elladan looked at Elrohir and felt his face flush. He leaned across Glorfindel's knees and beckoned his twin to draw near. "I am sorry I scribbled on your drawing," he whispered. Elrohir patted his hand. "And I am sorry I ruined your carving," he whispered back. I really loved this exchange. LOL!!! Sorry, just had to share that! MM

LKK · 15 September 2003 · Chapter 19: Making Plans

I love that Elrohir talks to his cast and to his sword. Every child knows that just because an object is inanimate doesn't mean that it isn't alive. And with as much love as went into painting the cast and with as much love as Elrohir feels for his sword, they both must surely be alive. I hope Albast survives his infection. I would hate for the twins to learn the meaning of grief at such a young age. Finally, thank you very much for your history lessions. I'm learning so much!

Bejai · 15 September 2003 · Chapter 19: Making Plans

Nilmandra This story is always so delightful! It was a treat to turn on my computer this morning and get a new chapter of one of my very favorites. Loved Elrohir's discovery of the singing. It's such an intensly elvish custom, but it seemed appropriate that the elflings wouldn't be involved or aware of it yet. Elvish singing is joy mixed with sadness, and though it certainly speaks to Elrohir, he doesn't know enough yet to feel the sadness. Although it looks like he is about to. I have this terrible feeling that you're setting them up for their first bewildering taste of mortality and the first time they realize that their father can fail. Oh, the angst! The twin's gentleness and compassion for Albast really quite beautiful. The connections you've crafted between the characters is my favorite part of this story -- how they laugh together, how they support one another. I just can't say enough good things about this story, and eagerly await the next chapter.

daw the minstrel · 15 September 2003 · Chapter 19: Making Plans

I like the small changes you made. And as I've told you, I really like the First Age story here. I find it compelling and exciting. I also like the adorable elflings and appreciate the contrast that their upbringing forms to their father's. You can only imagine how gratifying it is to Elrond to give his children what he did not have. And I like the strength he draws from Celebrian.

Levade · 15 September 2003 · Chapter 19: Making Plans

I was so happy to see this notification come up because I had thought you weren't writing any more on this. Thought I might have to go and start suggesting/hinting/begging for a new story! ;-) The twins, as ever, are adorable. I love the part where Elrohir grabs his twin to race off and show his grandparents. Never broke anything, but I remember well my friend's near delirious joy at getting their casts off! Alabast. You know it's odd how we get attached to non-canon characters, and dread seeing what fate the author has in store for them. I fear this poor Ranger might not live, and I've grown really fond of him! It's touching to see how everyone interacts with him as well, and how very gentle they are with him. Younger Elrond is so cute! He's just an inquisitive thing, and the whole section with his listening to Cirdan whilst part of his attention was fixated on that beard was funny. Cirdan, of course, I love. ;-) Grumpity old barnacle. Poor Glorfindel, bound by his own sworn oath not to touch a hair on Celebrian's head, and having it driven home by her husband... Naughty Celebrian! I think the Golden One simply needs to think around the problem and implicate someone else. *g* Of course he truly would never allow her to be harmed, but oh...the visions that come to mind if he could team up with Galadriel.... ;-D Levade

Dolly · 15 September 2003 · Chapter 19: Making Plans

I love this series. The Elflings are wonderful, so inquisitive but eager to learn and so funny. I like the way Elrond and Celebrian are portrayed as a happy couple ( so many other stories have them in an arranged marriage and I don't see them like that, I think it was a love match) and the way their little family extends to Glorfindel and the other Elves in Imladris. I also like Gil-Galad and Elros/Elrond as young ones. More of this very soon please. I am always on the lookout for updates.

khazar-khum · 15 September 2003 · Chapter 1: A Boring History Lesson

Just started reading this...I can't imagine a better instructor than Glorfindel(or, as one person misspelled it, Glorfondle). Ohh, wait, mind out of the gutter... Anyway, I just wanted to say that I like the premise, and will have more comments the further I get. khazar

mpfan · 15 September 2003 · Chapter 19: Making Plans

I've wanted to leave a review for awhile but never did. I absolutely love this story. I never really could get into the Silmarillion, and your history makes it all so fascinating. I feel like I'm the one having the history lesson! I have only one complaint though...I loved how Glorfindel and Erestor had a practical joke rivalry going on. It would be so wonderful to see some more of that. Or perhaps I can entice you with a plot bunny for a future story based on those two? You have a real gift with humor. Please update soon!

Mirkwoodmaiden · 15 September 2003 · Chapter 1: A Boring History Lesson

Nilmandra! I've only read the first chapter, but I love this! I'm going to make time to read a chapter at a time, but this sounds really enjoyable. I love reading about the Elves of Rivendell about as much as I like writing about the Elves of Rivendell. Your portrayal of Elladan and Elrohir as elflings is delightful. Their boredom is palpable in the schoolroom as is their joy at seeing Glorfindel. In my own stories I find the twins almost write themselves they are so fun! I've never given a lot of thought to Elrond's young life but your story has really peaked my interest. Thanks for sharing! And thanks for giving us this wonderful site to play in. I really like it!

Fadesintothewest · 25 August 2003 · Chapter 18: Of Elves and Men: Part II

Wow, this chapter, from both the previous and this second part was simply amazing! I love how you have painted the relationship between Elros and Elrond. It very much follows what occurs in canon, that is to say all that you have written fits seemlessly into Tolkien's tales. I was touched by Albasts awe in Elrond's rendition of his king, his love for men. It is too bad that the modern media monster has done so much to render traditions of old as mere relics of the past. How much better is it to hear personal histories, indeed nation's histories from the mouths of those who lived them. Elrond is of course a master of this!

daw the minstrel · 24 August 2003 · Chapter 18: Of Elves and Men: Part II

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. Gil-Galad is very charismatic in this as he must have been to have to many different peoples follow him. Elrond surprised him, however, and I bet he is surprised by very little. Poor Elrond! He is so embarrassed by fainting and vomiting and no one else thinks a thing of it.