Reviews of Of Elves and Men

Miss Cara Holms · 18 January 2018 · Chapter 8: Final Partings

I cannot fathom the raw emotion you have captured in this story. The words, the unadulterated love between Aegnor and Andreth. I love the Finarfin sons racing eachother. Baby Andreth siezing Aegnors hair capturing his heart instantly. And that cherished memory of mesmerised curiousity in each others eyes when first they noticed each other. Your expressions of love and affection are so poetic and beautiful you lose me every time I read this story. Try as I and all others might. I will never read or write this story the way you have. It is exactly how the tale of Aegnor and Andreth would be told and how I would like to know it.

Artelemnar Fëanestar · 7 April 2017 · Chapter 1: The Passing of Bëor

That was beautiful. I have no other words for it. I can't imagine what losing Bëor would've felt like to Finrod. There are many characters in the Silmarillion that I love, but Finrod will always have a special place in my heart. Thank you for writing this :)

artanisnerwen · 19 April 2015 · Chapter 8: Final Partings

I really enjoyed reading this fic. It is so sad shipping a pairing who only appear in HoME, and have such a disapointing end, because there are so few fics (and even less in canon) and they are just so sad, dying stubbornly alone. It was so nice reading a fic about them which I both liked the writting of and where they get the ending they should. I have no idea if you will get this, given how long ago it was you last put something on here, but thanks for writting this, and I would totally love it if you wrote any more of them together.

Alquawende · 6 October 2007 · Chapter 8: Final Partings

Ellie had advised me to read this, and I did. I love it. YOu have clearly shown your knowledge of the Athrabeth. I am also glad that someone has added to the archives about the House of Finarfin. I always went with the thought that Andreth died and Aegnor remained in Mandos tell Dagor Dagorath which is also canon, but I prefer your version. There is a happy ending, but it also is sad when Andreth dies. Few people have written of Aegnor and Andreth and I do say that you have done them justice. I enjoyed reading about Bregor's transformation. It was very detailed. In the first few chapters I never thought about Aegnor meeting Andreth when she was a child and becoming her protector. It certainly gives more reason for their relationship to be even more tragic than it already is. Fans always say that Luthien and Beren's relationship was the first all the time, but they forget Aegnor and Andreth. Another plus for them is that this is the only one where the male elf falls in love with the mortal maid. Thanks again for writing such a wonderful story!

Author's reply

This tale has haunted me for years, but until my elusive muse, Daeron, consented to reveal some interesting details, I had no idea how to share my yearning to explore the heartbreaking tale of Aegnor and Andreth. Since elves are not drawn to the fëa rather than the hröa and even then are in no hurry, his acquaintance with Andreth, babe, child, youth and young woman merely indicates, for him, a natural progression. Then too, elves and men worked in close alliance during those perilous times with a strong likelihood of frequent visits. Like most tales of extraordinary relationships, there is hardly ever a “happily-ever-after” ending. Like Beren and Luthien, this remarkable pair experienced a period of great and unique blessings after enduring seemingly endless grief, but were fated alike to a “high doom”. We cannot expect to attempt to alter our Eru-given natures without dire consequences. Most people side with Andreth and feel that Aegnor should have acquiesced simply to meet her wants, regardless of the eternal agony he would have suffered when she died. Alassiel asked me for the details of Beren's transformation, so I must thank her for the thought. Thank you for the wonderful review, Alquawende. It is a joy to know that the effort was not in vain.

Nariel · 26 June 2007 · Chapter 2: So It Begins

It's nice to see Finrod so happy now compared to the previous chapter. Well, if he wanted children couldn't he just marry some elven maid in Middle Earth? There are no rules against that if the feelings are the same. I'm just saying this not to be mean, but the sentence you wrote about Finrod and Amarie just sounded as though Finrod liked her for breeding purposes only... Can you answer that please? Sorry, but that just popped out at me. I like how Aegnor is to be the protector of Andreth. Since I have already read the story my whole review will be here though. What I have enjoyed about your story for one thing is that it is about Aegnor and Andreth. There are not many stories about them on the net so it is also nice to find authors who are familiar with the HOME series. To be honest this is actually one of my favorite Tolkien pairings. Yeeeeesssss!!!!! Is it not sad that their love was never fulfilled? I liked them also because this one is the only one with a male elf in love with a mortal maid. To think if they had wed and Aegnor was not afraid of the future... A lot would have been different. Maybe Beren might have been given the immortal life that Tuor was given(for being the second elf/man marriage -at least that's my opinion). Hey, I would like to see more stories involving the House of Finarfin if you can because I really like how you have writtten them. Please!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Namarie...

Author's reply

“Well, if he wanted children couldn't he just marry some elven maid in Middle Earth? There are no rules against that if the feelings are the same. I'm just saying this not to be mean, but the sentence you wrote about Finrod and Amarie just sounded as though Finrod liked her for breeding purposes only...” First of all, elves are not simply pretty humans. Their whole concept of love, marriage and child-rearing are far removed from our perceptions of these events. Ilúvatar created them differently. When elves marry it is not simply to have someone with whom to share marital relations and children. It is more of the fëa (spirit) than the hróa (body) and they are not fickle, changeable beings. An elf would be appalled to be informed that they might even consider bonding with a life mate only for breeding purposes. That is a human misconception of elven relationships. You seem to have only read the first and second chapters, Nariel; there are a total of eight (8). You might find the rest of the tale interesting, as it depicts many instances of the vast differences between Elves and Men. Thank you for the review, and happy reading.

Nariel · 26 June 2007 · Chapter 1: The Passing of Bëor

I do enjoy how well you have described Finrod's emotions at Beor's death. It is so moving and tragic... Poor Finrod... He has found the sorrow of mortals, but just kept trying to convince himself his friend was going to live. Namarie...

Author's reply

Thank you for your review, Nariel, This chapter focused on the unfathomable topic, for elves, of death caused by the aging process among speaking peoples. We cannot think easily of the passing of our loved ones though we are all too familiar with our own mortality. It would have been even more difficult for the immortal elves to conceive of so abbreviated a lifespan.

ellie · 27 April 2007 · Chapter 8: Final Partings

This was so exquisitely beautiful. It will be difficult to read any one else's take on this tale for you have just completed it in the most wonderful way possible. Loved the guests getting wet, too cute! I'd say more but it's hard to type when one is crying. Utterly beautiful and so very well done!

Author's reply

One of the resaons I wrote this tale is that I had read other versions and found them unsatisfying at best. You never can tell what will occur when Valar and Maiar are included among the guests. Ossë's arrival caught me quite surprise, too. Here I thought it would be such a solemn event. :) It was also very difficult to write when crying. Tears tend to blur one's view of the computer screen, and they are not the best cleaning agent for the keyboard. I thank you, Ellie, for taking the time not only to read, but to review. It means a lot to know you have done a credible job with an unusual situation. A am well satisfied that now the tale of Aegnor and Andreth has been told with compassion and a deeper understanding from the dual perspectives.

Elflingimp · 27 April 2007 · Chapter 8: Final Partings

Not until the ending of Arda is a line I think that gives hope that at least they will be reunited,I want to tell you that was the lovelyest story I have read in a long time(yes I cried at the end) I wonder what it will be like if they ever are reunited but that is another story is'nt it?

Author's reply

Yes, that would be another story! Aegnor and Andreth are shining examples of enduring, selfless love. Though both struggled, in differetn ways, with the frustration of singleness, neither would forgo the commitment to one another. We have much to learn from such steadfast faithfulness. It gives hope that they will again be joined together. I am glad you enjoyed the story, Elflingimp. It is what encourages authors to write in the first place.

ellie · 26 April 2007 · Chapter 7: Life Anew

Exquisite! I love the differences between elf and mortal which you bring out so beautifully. The bewilderment of Aegnor is most amusing to behold. The descriptions of the impact of the pregnancy and birthing on him was fascinating. This is such a great story and it gets deeper and better with each chapter. Well done!

Author's reply

One cannot truly appreciate the differences between the two races unless you can watch them interact. This was a fascinating time for me as well, as I pictured them in various situations. Mostly I was a surprised and amused as any reader, often not knowing where the trail led, but eagerly following them through the exploration of their distinctive cultural and physical peculiarities.

Larner · 25 April 2007 · Chapter 6: Time Renewed

I rejoice you have shown us that they were not denied that love forever, but were granted this grace. Not many mortals have touched Tol Eressea, but it has hosted a few who needed that grace.

Author's reply

This particular Elf and Woman were singled out by Tolkien to show the distance between the races. There was an added warning that such that would enter into marriage would have difficulties unknown to those who trod not that path. It seemed fitting that having remained true beyond death, they be given a blessing of unique to them alone. Thank you for the review, Larner and I hope you enjoy the rest of the tale.

ellie · 25 April 2007 · Chapter 6: Time Renewed

Beautiful! What a wonderful second chance and joining for them. Sigh...I'm so glad I found this story. You are wonderfully resolving this tragic love into something so joyous. Can't wait for more!

Author's reply

Credit must be given where due. Many people were quick to condemn Aegnor for not acquiesing to the wishes of Andreth. But then we mortals think of the immediate satisfaction and care not the others may suffer endless for our temporary pleasure. I saw it quite differently. So what came of my musing was a special gift; a compassionate Eru-given opportunity to dwell in a peace they would never have known in Beleriand. I am delighted, Ellie, that you are enjoying this tale which has taken the better part of 2 years to complete.

ellie · 25 April 2007 · Chapter 5: A Bitter Ending

YAY! They are together at last, though in a most uncommon way. even if little can become of this, at least they had those few moments and the potential promise of something more later. I'm glad she gave in to him. I thought it interesting that Sauron himself came out to kill Aegnor. Aegnor was a deadly foe of Morgoth.

Author's reply

Even though staying true to the essence of Tolkien's story we must allow for certain literary license. For me it seemed that such a rare and enduing love should merit a special 'ending'. Aegnor indeed was fierce in his wrath against the one he thought was responsible for the bridgeless gulf between Elf and Man. It made sense to send out a Power to defeat this warrior.

Ellie · 22 April 2007 · Chapter 4: Sundering

How amazingly bitter and sad. That was a hard lesson for Aegnor and really a hard lesson for them all with his cold withdrawal. I wish they had come together. It would have been brief and hard, but at least it would have been. I still prefer the romantic idea that in the end of time, they were rejoined.

Author's reply

To elves it was likely an incomprehensible idea that humans had such a brief span of existence. After all, there were skirmishes with the great Enemy and forays from his dark lair on a regular basis, and war is hard on the health and welfare of both sides. Death was therefore a not uncommon end for Elves and Men. As with many a hopeful couple, events may occur that keep them apart. While the romantic is wonderful, to be sure, Tolkien did not write many happy endings and I wish to be true to his visions of his world. (HoME 10 - Morgoth’s Ring - pages 323-326) But, my dear Ellie, please remember that there are four (4) additional chapters.

Coriel Conquistadora · 20 April 2007 · Chapter 3: Days Of Youth

Is that all? Or is there more? Please say there will be more. :)

Author's reply

It is so nice to hear from you, Coriel. It sounds like you are enjoying my “master-work.” You can thank Alassiel for her continued encouragement (prodding, urging?) to complete it. Yes, there are a total of eight (8) chapters, the plan being to post one each Monday until they are done.

ellie · 16 April 2007 · Chapter 3: Days Of Youth

What a delightful tale of Andreth and Aegnor. I loved the defenders and the doll and the clever race. How wonderful!

Author's reply

It is always nice to hear from you, Ellie, and thank you for the review. Elves have such a love for young ones that it would be natural for them to participate in their fun. If you are familiar with the tale of Aegnor and Andreth you know that not all their days were filled with lighthearted merriment.

Elflingimp · 16 April 2007 · Chapter 3: Days Of Youth

This story has went staight to my heart,I loved the race between them and her means for winning them,it seems the elf has much to learn about the wiles of a female human!

Author's reply

It is good to know that you enjoyed the story thus far, Elflingimp. The race was a surprise for me as well, but the human female has a lot to learn about elves, too. Thank you for your review; it is the great encouragement for a writer.

lwarren · 12 April 2007 · Chapter 2: So It Begins

I do love your stories of these first encounters between men and elves - especially Finrod. His desire to attend the birth of his friend's first child is tangible here (and I like his steward and how he manuevers to make the trip finally possible). The arrival of the elves and the race for the gates was breathtaking - but what really gathered my attention was this first meeting between Aegnor and Andreth. What a sweet baby girl - and he surely captured by her small hand and sweet face in more ways than one! Lovely story, Eruanneth! I can't wait for more! Linda

Author's reply

Thank you for the review, Linda. I am delighted that you are enjoying this story. It has certainly been a long time in the writing. Ever since first reading of Aegnor and Andreth, I felt that they must have known each other early in her life. As Angrod and Aegnor led the elvish warriors in the area, visits between the two peoples would have been likely. Andreth, being daughter to the first Lord of Dorthonion, would undoubtedly have been in the presence of elves often, but her special friendship with Aegnor developed over time. My hope is to post a chapter each Monday. Fear not, the tale is already completed.

Coriel Conquistadora · 14 June 2006 · Chapter 1: The Passing of Bëor

One can't help but wonder how the issues of mortality and immortality between Men and Elves, each taking their own condition for granted. Well done. :)

Author's reply

It was that very thought that fanned this idea into flame, though being mortal we likely see more clearly from that perspective. But for beings with no concept of speaking creatures living abbreviated lives, it must have been profoundly disturbing. Thank you for the review, Coriel.

Ellie · 14 September 2005 · Chapter 1: The Passing of Bëor

I enjoyed this, Well written and well done.

Author's reply

It was not easy to write; this the first of many losses of the mortal friends of the Eldar, not by wound or grief, but the unknown death of old age. Thank you for your review, Ellie.

lwarren · 8 September 2005 · Chapter 1: The Passing of Bëor

How very lovely and how very sad! I loved the meeting of elf and man in your other story...this just shows how far the friendship has progressed and how deeply attached to each other these two were. The dawning realization in the mind of the immortal elf-lord that his cherished friend was leaving him in such a permanent way (which he could barely comprehend) was wrenching. I am so glad that Finrod had Edrahil to watch over him afterwards. This is so well-written - and I dearly love the way you write their conversation. It flows like a river of poetry. Beautiful story - I hope there will be more! linda

Author's reply

Ah, it pleases me greatly that you find this event believable and heartwarming. That is, after all, how friendship and loyalty should be among honorable people, be they Elves or Men. According to Tolkien, Finrod had infinite care for these Other Children of Iluvatar, in much the same way, I think as the Valar had for Elves; some mysteries of the mind of the One revealed in his creations, as well as his own intense curiosity, and later, his affection and respect. Thank you, lwarren, for the heartening words of praise. There is more planned.

Nerdanel · 8 September 2005 · Chapter 1: The Passing of Bëor

This is absolutely lovely, Eruanneth! It really made me feel the sorrow, and the kinship, between Bëor and Finrod. I liked how you also portrayed Edrahil (our favourite Steward!) in this story, because I've always liked him. I am very excited to read more, and I hopes it's coming soon (since I've waited so long already:). Blessings, Nerdanel

Author's reply

Partings are by their nature largely sorrowful; unexpected partings much more so as I have come to know personally. Yet it also bespeaks great love given on both parts. That the Elven King with the widest and most diverse realm in all Beleriand should have such depth of feeling for one of other kindred, and that the ‘other’ pledge his life and all his days to the service of a ‘foreign’ lord, is remarkable. Happily I too enjoy ‘our favourite steward’ and his limitless devotion to his chosen Lord. Thank you, Nerdanel, for the encouraging review and as always, please have patience with me.:)

TithenFeredir · 8 September 2005 · Chapter 1: The Passing of Bëor

This is beautiful; the words flow gracefully. The sentiment between all three characters is so gently respectful and loving. I loved this sentence: "Bright as starlight a single tear trailed slowly down his flawless cheek." It is very simple and touching, and it reads like poetry. I look forward to reading the chapters to come. ~TF

Author's reply

Though perhaps not a poet, I do love the weaving together of words in flavorful array. When that thought transferred from fingers to computer screen into words, I was likewise pleased (and surprised). Thank you, TithenFeredir, for your review of this poignant moment in history. The flowering of a relationship is but its youth; seldom we can look with wonder upon its ending.

Alassiel · 8 September 2005 · Chapter 1: The Passing of Bëor

Eruanneth Luin, This is lovely. I have often wondered how Bëor's death would have been perceived by his Elven friends. I think you have caught it exactly—their puzzlement, their grief. After all, both Men and Elves are beings who possess language and skill of hand, not beasts, so how could Elves know that those who were so much like them, at least in fëa, would be so different from them in nature? Thank you for this. I look forward to the rest of your tale. Alassiel

Author's reply

As ever I appreciate the comments of those who read these, my small contributions to a (hopefully) better understanding of some of the vast differences, as well as the similarities, between the Elves and Men. Thank you, Alassiel, for your encouragement to continue. Bear in mind that this event took place only six years before the birth of a daughter unto Boromir, Lord of Ladros, and news did not travel swiftly in those days.

Reviews (23)