A review by _dilliam_william
The Two Towers by J.R.R. Tolkien

adventurous dark mysterious medium-paced

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

4.75

I couldn’t put this book down, I am loving this series so much!

With this book I am seeing the vision a bit more about deciding to print it as its own book. It works much better independently than Fellowship. The ending is still abrupt but I was still satisfied with the book as its own reading experience and as a part of this FANTASTIC STORY.

I really liked the first part. Since the first novel only follows the perspective of Frodo and Sam for the most part it was interesting to get the perspective of characters who are less vulnerable. Just three unkillable dudes doing some tracking through the woods and fighting a big battle (my only note on this is that after seeing all the maps and appendices for like EVERYTHING in Tolkien’s world I just would’ve also liked a diagram of Helm’s Deep cause people are doing flips and shit and I don’t know where the hell anyone is).

And folks, the second half, OH LORD the second half. There is just so much to talk about that I couldn’t do it in just this review. The crazy character exploration of Sméagol was super interesting, like his past and what he’s been up to and his weird relationship to Frodo is just SO INTERESTING. Also, I almost peed myself when Shelob showed up, CREAKING AND BURBLING GOOD GRIEF HELP US ALL.

And finally, my final note, the boys. THOSE SWEET BOYS. Frodo and Sam’s developing relationship, it’s so tender and there’s push and pull (like they’re not perfect, WHICH MAKES THEM GREAT) and it’s just so nice! I liked this book so much and I’m so excited for the final book. I have really loved how this series has kept me company through a big shifting year. CANT WAIT FOR THE KING GO RETURN.