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| History Lessons: The Second Age by Nilmandra | 398 Review(s) |
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| Antigone_Q | Reviewed Chapter: Prologue on 11/16/2003 |
| I was so happy to see you'd started the new story! Nice beginning! I see it's going to cover some of Arwen's childhood - that should be interesting; you don't see many stories set during that period (at least I haven't). I want to see your take on what Arwen was like at age twelve: she was so independent later in life that I always picture her as kind of a handful as a small child. I liked your take on giving birth Elf-style. I'm too unmotivated to get out HoME vol.X, but I'm guessing you made up the part about the father being able to share in contractions, although I remember that he does traditionally strengthen both mother and child with his fea. But sharing in the contractions would fit well both with Elrond being a healer and the intimacy that you have given Elrond and Celebrian (another part of your stories that I like very much!). The whole childbearing process as you wrote it sounded like it would bond the family and community deeply. I've noticed you write Elvish families as if they are very open with each other. I like that take on Elvish society. I got a kick out of Galadriel silently communicating with her granddaughter as she carries her. Very much in character. And Celeborn comparing Arwen right away with Luthien was nicely done. I see all the men in Imladris are doting on Arwen already. Hm….Do I see a pattern developing? I can't wait to see the founding of Imladris. From your first "History Lessons" I bet I already have an inkling of how and why it might have happened, and I'm anxious to see if I've predicted anything correctly. Author Reply: Hi Antigone Q! You are right - I did extrapolate a bit on what strengthen and support means. I liked the idea of husbands being able to support their wives by helping in childbirth :D I am learning how little detail Tolkien gave us of the Second Age.....but the founding of Imladris at least I have a date and reason for. I hope you like it. | |
| The Karenator | Reviewed Chapter: Prologue on 11/16/2003 |
| Nilmandra, What a wonderful start. I just loved the birthing scene. All births should be in such loving circumstances and I would have LOVED for my husband to take a few contractions for himself. I kept trying to picture my sons being present for the birth of a younger sibling and all I could hear was them shouting, "Let me out!" and "Oh gross!" Your way was so much sweeter. The scene where the baby was presented to all of Imladris was very special. There was such joy and Erestor and Glorfindel were wonderful. That Arwen is sure one lucky little lady. Such wonderful males in her life. And the grandparents. Celeborn was just superb. He was so protective, so in awe and so loving. Galadriel, who sometimes comes across as cold, was such a good mother in this. Her love for her family was quite evident. Okay, I'm blabbering. I could just sum it all up into one word: WONDERFUL! BTW, the twins looked especially nice in their blue and silver tunics...sigh... Karen Author Reply: The twins did look rather stunning, didn't they? Thanks for your nice words - I have taken some liberties with LACE where we learn the father supports the mother. I think taking contractions is good support! | |
| meckinock | Reviewed Chapter: Prologue on 11/16/2003 |
| Oh, how wonderful! Grandpa Celeborn is just adorable, and I can't wait to see how little Arwen manages to torture her brothers. Galadriel's prescience is heart-breaking, though... Can't wait for more! Author Reply: I think Arwen had her grandparents wrapped around her little finger from the first moment. :D Glad you liked Celeborn - we'll see more of Celebrian's side of the family in this tale. | |
| shirebound | Reviewed Chapter: Prologue on 11/16/2003 |
| Oh my, what a magical way to start your new tale! What joy! What details! "Elladan nuzzled her next, and the bright blue eyes looked intently at the dark haired twins facing her, their heads touching. “And I am Elladan, and do not worry that you are having double vision. We are twins." I look forward to learning of the Second Age as enjoyably as you taught us the First, Nilmandra! Author Reply: Thanks, Shirebound. I love details. I hope people like Arwen! | |
| Jay of Lasgalen | Reviewed Chapter: Prologue on 11/16/2003 |
| Nilmandra, what a lovely surprise! I wasn't expecting a new story from you. This was delightful - a birth to start a new story. I was so glad the twins were there to assist, and to greet their new sister, it made it a true family celebration. The next chapter of 'Two By Two' (only half written) deals with the birth of the twins, but it will be hard to follow your story! Jay Author Reply: Thanks Jay! I am glad you liked it. The twins will be on a bit of an adventure this tale - and it will be fun to show them with their sister. I am looking forward to more of 'Friends' and 'Two by Two'. | |
| Karri | Reviewed Chapter: Prologue on 11/16/2003 |
| That was a lovely bit of family bonding. Well written and well researched, as always. The foreshadow was nicely done, as well. Author Reply: My deepest hope in this story is that people will like Arwen. And I hope to do well with the Second Age - I will be using bits from HoME which is the only real detail available, and some of it is contradictory...well, you know. :P | |
| daw the minstrel | Reviewed Chapter: Prologue on 11/16/2003 |
| I can't wait for the lessons to begin. I learned so much from the last story and I know I will from this one too. In the meantime, this little girl is in a fair way to being spoiled before she is 12 hours old! Heaven help them. Author Reply: As I began working on second age details I became concerned I had lied in the title. So much of the Second Age is only told in the Tale of Years - a date and one line of text. But, if people like little Arwen and remember a few detials, it will be good. Thank you, beta. | |
| Elena Tiriel | Reviewed Chapter: Prologue on 11/16/2003 |
| Oh, gracious heaven! History Lessons redux! One of my favorite stories! Yippee! I'll try to restrain my enthusiasm enough to actually read it, now. - Barbara (formerly TolkienFan) Author Reply: You made me laugh - I hope you still liked it after you read it! :D | |