The Fall of Númenor

Set in the realm after the dawn of the First Age, The Fall of Númenor delves into the creation and eventual doom of the island kingdom of Númenor. Gifted to the Men of Middle-earth by the Valar as a reward for their struggles against the Dark Lord Morgoth, Númenor flourishes into a beacon of wealth, wisdom, and maritime prowess. However, with great power comes inevitable hubris. The Númenóreans, in their quest for glory and immortality, sow the seeds of their own destruction, a tale culminating in the dramatic events leading to the Last Alliance of Elves and Men.

Although J.R.R. Tolkien described the Second Age as a ‘dark age’, and initially only alluded to its rich history in The Lord of the Rings and its appendices, his son Christopher Tolkien unveiled further depths in The Silmarillion and Unfinished Tales of Númenor and Middle-earth. The culmination of these works revealed crucial narratives about Númenor’s ascent and precipitous decline, providing a fuller picture of this critical period.

Editor Brian Sibley has expertly compiled Tolkien’s writings to craft a cohesive and compelling chronicle of the Second Age. Adhering closely to the timeline outlined in the appendices of The Lord of the Rings, this volume not only assures historical consistency but also enriches the reader’s understanding of Middle-earth’s intricate lore. Through Sibley's meticulous curation, readers can now access a narrative that resonates with Tolkien’s vision and thematic depth.

Moreover, this definitive compilation is brought to life by the evocative artistry of Alan Lee, the preeminent illustrator of Tolkien’s works. Lee’s new illustrations in watercolour and pencil seamlessly complement Tolkien’s text, adding visual splendour to the literary masterpiece.

The Fall of Númenor is not merely a collection but a revelation, offering both new readers and long-time Tolkien enthusiasts an immersive journey into a world where dark and light clash in monumental proportions. This is an essential volume for anyone seeking to delve deeper into the mythology of Middle-earth and witness the heroic and tragic origins of an age long gone.