Rutledge writes not an academic but a theological study of Tolkien's timeless saga, and it is rich with insight. Her best work comes when she analyzes some of the thorniest parts of the books, notably the Mt. Doom scene. I left with new appreciation for the series, but especially for the Power that works within me. ( )

This is easily the best book I didn't bother to finish. The author is an expert in both Christian Theology and Tolkien. It comes through on every page. And that's also the reason I couldn't finish this. It's just too much for me. ( )

J. R. R. Tolkien's Lord of the Rings has long been acknowledged as the gold standard for fantasy fiction, and the recent Oscar-winning movie trilogy has brought forth a whole new generation of fans. Many Tolkien enthusiasts, however, are not aware of the profoundly religious dimension of the great Ring saga.

In The Battle for Middle-earth Fleming Rutledge employs a distinctive technique to uncover the theological currents that lie just under the surface of Tolkien's epic tale. Rutledge believes that the best way to understand this powerful "deep narrative" is to examine the story as it unfolds, preserving some of its original dramatic tension. This deep narrative has not previously been sufficiently analyzed or celebrated. Writing as an enthusiastic but careful reader, Rutledge draws on Tolkien's extensive correspondence to show how biblical and liturgical motifs shape the action. At the heart of the plot lies a rare glimpse of what human freedom really means within the Divine Plan of God. The Battle for Middle-earth surely will, as Rutledge hopes, "give pleasure to those who may already have detected the presence of the sub-narrative, and insight to those who may have missed it on first reading."

It is well know the JRR Tolkien and CS Lewis were friends and attended the same church. The Christian World View embedded within LOTR is clearly and eloquently detailed by Rutledge. A Reference for any true-believer who loves the LOTR. ( )

This book is interesting, but has no index. This makes it hard to look anything up or look back at anything. ( )