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The River  by Indigo Bunting 14 Review(s)
DreamflowerReviewed Chapter: 4 on 10/23/2005
This is such a nice bit of almost quiet relaxation, compared to the last chapter. Certainly, the danger and apprehension are still there, but the two of them are out of the River now, and have a bit of time to pursue a burgeoning friendship.

I love the idea that Elves can use either hand. Very clever.

And Legolas' anger at himself when he realized he had hurt Sam's feelings was very well done.

I am very curious about these Men. I am guessing that the two will cross paths with them at some point...

Author Reply: Legolas is a relatively undeveloped character in Tolkien’s works. He’s always in the background, and that means that there’s quite a bit for we fanfiction writers to play with. In my mind, at least, he sees himself as a shield for the hobbits, who are not fighters. Now he’s upset because he feels he’s let Sam down. In a way, I think Sam’s admiration might be somewhat hard to live up to.

shireboundReviewed Chapter: 4 on 10/23/2005
And Frodo will need that loyalty ere the end, I deem, thought Legolas, looking down at Sam. A little gardener you may be, Samwise, but look what a garden you now tend!

"Mr. Frodo could be in danger!” He leapt to his feet, still clutching the blankets about himself. There was a light in his face that Legolas had never seen there before.


What a marvelous interchange between these two! Both learned much about the other, and Legolas, it seems has learned a great deal about what lurks within the heart and strength of one particular hobbit.

Author Reply: You’ve picked out two sets of lines that I like very much, myself. I think it’s Legolas who really has the most to gain from his newfound friendship. Sam already thinks the world of Elves; it’s the Elf who has to learn not to underestimate the hobbit.

BodkinReviewed Chapter: 4 on 10/23/2005
I do like the relationship that is growing between Sam and Legolas - they make an excellent team. And they will look after each other as well as they possibly can - but those men do not seem a good sign. And smelly, too. And they're on the wrong side of the river - and in no condition to attempt a crossing.

I hope they meet up with the rest soon - but suspect there could be some obstacles in their way.

Author Reply: Oh, I’m glad you like Sam and Legolas together. I think they bounce off each other very well. I enjoyed working on how they learned a few things about each other. Both of them ought to be curious – Sam because he’s always been interested in the Elves, and Legolas because he knows so little about hobbits. And what would this story be without obstacles? :-)

harrowcatReviewed Chapter: 4 on 10/23/2005
I heartily agree with that last comment but hear ominous music hearing about the men. I love the developing respect between Sam and Legolas. And what an interesting thought about elves not suffering 'handedness'. I once taught a five year old who wrote and drew with a pencil or crayon in each hand and used each as he saw fit. His mum was very worried but I found it fascinating. He eventually decided to be a left-handed, manic depressive studying politics and my God-Son! I love him dearly but he is no elf (to quote Sean Bean!)

Author Reply: Cue the menacing music: dun dun dun! I thought it would make sense for Elves to be ambidextrous, as it fits right in with their heightened senses and abilities. I was imagining hand dominance to be a mortal ‘flaw’. Interesting story about your godson – though I wonder why his mother was worried by his ambidextrous tendencies. Then again, such a thing is not very common!

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