Reviews

This is my third read-through, and I’m finally starting to be able to follow all the big story threads. This is obviously a bit of a dense read, but it’s still fabulous. It has this epic sweep and this poetic elevated language that makes it feel like a recovered epic work a la Gilgamesh rather than a work of 20th century fantasy fiction. It has a massive cast and covers a vast stretch of time. Some parts won’t stick in your brain, but others like the story of the Two Trees or Beren and Lúthien will definitely resonate. My favourite section will always be the rise and fall of Numenor.

The Andy Serkis audio version is phenomenally done, and actually helps to follow it if you’re a bit overwhelmed by the physical book.

I really love this one, and it adds so much context to the Lord of the Rings. Would highly recommend!

thenerdycowgirl's review against another edition

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adventurous challenging informative tense fast-paced

Plot- or character-driven? A mix
Strong character development? It's complicated
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

5.0

Loved this book! Definitely recommend to read the hobbit, the main trilogy, and then this one. This is very lore heavy so you’ve got to get the love for the world first! I would also recommend reading the supplemental readings in tandem. After i read the Beren and Luthien chapter in this book, i read the Beren and Luthien book, and i think that was very helpful in getting more information and therefore a better grasp on their story. I wish i had the others and i would’ve done the same for their sections.

sdeeim's review against another edition

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informative reflective relaxing slow-paced

Plot- or character-driven? N/A
Strong character development? N/A
Loveable characters? It's complicated
Diverse cast of characters? N/A
Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

3.0

l1neofdur1n's review against another edition

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5.0

Made me cry more than any other piece of literature. Do with that as you will.

bellaw15's review against another edition

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I tried so hard but couldn’t get into this. The writing style just wasn’t for me and I found myself getting lost a lot. It got to the point where I’d either have to start from the beginning or DNF, so decided to DNF. Will maybe try again in the future.

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