Monday, November 30, 2020

Power Rangers: Sins of the Future (comic) - Paul's REVIEW



Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Goodreads

Title: 
Power Rangers: Sins of the Future
Author: Matthew Erman
Story by: Trey Moore
Artists: Giuseppe Cafaro & Francesco Segala
Release Date: November 3, 2020


Synopsis: Time Force Pink Ranger Jen Scotts and Red Ranger Wes Collins have defeated their greatest enemy, discover their love may threaten all of time - but can they find a way to survive a shocking new threat and find their way back to each other?

A LOVE THAT CROSSES ALL OF TIME & SPACE After defeating the villainous Ransik along with their allies in the time-traveling Time Force, Pink Ranger Jen Scotts and Red Ranger Wes Collins want to try for a real relationship. But without sacrificing their commitments to the Silver Guardians and Time Force, can the two actually make the ultimate long-distance relationship work? But when Jen returns from the future, she and Wes are attacked by a mysterious stranger who has dire news - if these two stay together, they’ll disrupt the timeline and change the destiny of humanity! The shocking identity of their accuser sets them on a collision path with an enemy they never expected. Can Jen and Wes survive the threats to their pasts, presents and futures? Or will their love be the end of all time as they know it? Trey Moore (Mighty Morphin Power Rangers), Matthew Erman (Bonding) and Giuseppe Cafaro (Saban’s Power Rangers: Soul of The Dragon) present an all-new graphic novel set after the events of the hit Power Rangers: Time Force television series featuring two of the most popular Rangers of all time!



------------------------------------------------------------

Review: I'm really enjoying these standalone graphic novels BOOM! is putting out that feature rangers from seasons other than Mighty Morphin'. This story focuses on Time Force, and more specifically Jen Scotts. If you're familiar with the original Power Rangers Time Force tv series, that's all you need to know going into this book. If you've seen Hyperforce then you'll get a LOT of great references, though. If you're only familiar with the original series or only the comic books, you won't be too familiar with the characters but I think you'd still enjoy this story. 

Seeing the characters post-tv series is a lot of fun. Nadira is featured, in a different role than usual. There's a newly introduced ranger. Aplha-55 makes a cameo!

The time travel logic in this book is confusing, but I feel like it tried to bring logic to a tv show that didn't even try to make sense when it came to time travel. I really like Outpost One and I hope it comes back into play in future comics (or more)!

I'm not as familiar with this season so I wanted more and more Hyperforce references. I'm still hoping for some incarnation of Hyperforce Season 2. I liked the characters in this book, but there's way too much exposition. I hope this story has ramifications for the whole multiverse.

There are some really great panels in this book, but overall I didn't enjoy the art style. It's too sketchy and not full of bold and bright colors that I'm used to the ongoing comics doing so well. I give this book a 4.5/5. I want to see more standalone graphic novels from other popular series or featuring popular characters, but this one wasn't my favorite.


--PAUL

Sunday, November 29, 2020

"How to Be Ace: A Memoir of Growing Up Asexual" by Rebecca Burgess - Paul's REVIEW

*I received this book as an eARC from Jessica Kingsley Publishers via NetGalley. I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.*






Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Goodreads

Title: 
How to Be Ace: A Memoir of Growing Up Asexual
Author: Rebecca Burgess
Release Date: October 21, 2020


Synopsis: Growing up, Rebecca assumes sex is just a scary new thing they will 'grow into' as they get older, but when they leave school, start working and do grow up, they start to wonder why they don't want to have sex with other people.

In this brave, hilarious and empowering graphic memoir, we follow Rebecca as they navigate a culture obsessed with sex - from being bullied at school and trying to fit in with friends, to forcing themself into relationships and experiencing anxiety and OCD - before coming to understand and embrace their asexual identity.

Giving unparalleled insight into asexuality and asexual relationships, How To Be Ace shows the importance of learning to be happy and proud of who you are.



------------------------------------------------------------

Review: I LOVE graphic novel memoirs! This book follows Rebecca through their life showcasing the different moments in which they felt different and later realized it was because they hadn't discovered things out about themself yet. The focus is on them being ace, but there's also experiences with OCD and finding connections with other people.

There are so many great moments of storytelling in this book. I especially connected when Rebecca found representation in media through the "Good Omens" fandom. I hope this book can be that representation for ace people. I also hope this is an introduction for some people who aren't as familiar with asexuality.

I give this book a 5/5. These stories show such a great glimpse into someone's unique story. The challenges they faced, the realizations they made, and the connections they made.


--PAUL

Saturday, November 28, 2020

Anatomica: The Exquisite and Unsettling Art of Human Anatomy - Paul's REVIEW

*I received this book as an eARC from Laurence King Publishing via Edelweiss. I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.*



Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Goodreads 

Title: 
Anatomica: The Exquisite and Unsettling Art of Human Anatomy
Author: Joanna Ebenstein
Release Date: September 15, 2020


Synopsis: For centuries, humankind has sought to know itself through an understanding of the body, in sickness and in health, inside and out. This fascination left in its wake a rich body of artworks that demonstrate not only the facts of the human body, but also the ways in which our ideas about the body and its proper representation have changed over time. At times both beautiful and repulsive, illustrated anatomy continues to hold our interest today, and is frequently referenced in popular culture. Anatomica brings together some of the most striking, fascinating and bizarre artworks from the 16th through to the 20th century, exploring human anatomy in one beautiful volume.



------------------------------------------------------------

Review: This collection of anatomical illustrations from the 16th century up to the 20th century is diverse and expansive. There's definitely a certain kind of person that will enjoy this book. So many different styles throughout different time periods are showcased. The history of human dissection. The anatomy of organs. Details of the blood system. I had a lot of fun flipping through this book. This would make an excellent gift for any anatomy fanatic. I could see this on a doctor's coffee table at home or at their office. I give this book a 4/5



--PAUL

Friday, November 27, 2020

Ritu Weds Chandni (picture book) - Paul's REVIEW

*I received this book as an eARC from Yali Books via NetGalley. I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.*


Pre-order* Ritu Weds Chandni | Yali BooksAmazon | Barnes & Noble | Goodreads

Title: 
Ritu Weds Chandni
Author: Ameya Narvankar 
Upcoming Release Date: December 1, 2020


Synopsis: Little Ayesha is all excited for her favorite cousin Ritu's wedding. She can't wait to dance in the baraat ceremony! But not everyone is happy that Ritu is marrying her girlfriend Chandni. Some have even vowed to stop the celebrations. Will Ayesha be able to save her cousin's big day?

This vibrant book sets the story of a same-sex couple struggling to gain acceptance against the colorful backdrop of an Indian wedding.



------------------------------------------------------------

Review: Ritu is the first bride in the family to lead her own baraat, a traditionally groom led activity. Ayesha is so excited to see Ritu and her girlfriend get married. She's been to weddings before and is excited to see another one. Unfortunately, not everyone is excited about this same-sex wedding.

This book does not shy away from there been controversy around same-sex weddings. I liked that it showed conflict in this way. There's a place for idealistic stories, as well, but there is something to be said about showing children the truth. The brides even get attacked by water hoses. But, Ayesha dances anyway.

The artwork is beautiful. There are so many great details. There's also a list of Hindu words used in the book at the end. This would be a great book for children familiar with this culture and those who are not. I give this book a 5/5. A great conversation starter for children and their loving adults.


--PAUL

Thursday, November 26, 2020

Juliet Takes a Breath by Gabby Rivera (graphic novel) - Paul's REVIEW

*I received this book as an eARC from BOOM! Box via NetGalley. I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.*



Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Goodreads

Title: Juliet Takes a Breath

Author: Gabby Rivera
Artists: Celia Moscote
Upcoming Release Date: December 1, 2020


Synopsis: A NEW GRAPHIC NOVEL ADAPTATION OF THE BESTSELLING BOOK! Juliet Milagros Palante is leaving the Bronx and headed to Portland, Oregon. She just came out to her family and isn’t sure if her mom will ever speak to her again. But don’t worry, Juliet has something kinda resembling a plan that’ll help her figure out what it means to be Puerto Rican, lesbian and out. See, she’s going to intern with Harlowe Brisbane - her favorite feminist author, someone whose last work on feminism, self-love and lots of other things will help Juliet find her ever elusive epiphany.  There’s just one problem—Harlowe’s white, not from the Bronx and doesn’t have the answers. Okay, maybe that’s more than one problem but Juliet never said it was a perfect plan... Critically-acclaimed writer Gabby Rivera adapts her bestselling novel alongside artist Celia Moscote in an unforgettable queer coming-of-age story exploring race, identity and what it means to be true to your amazing self. Even when the rest of the world doesn’t understand.



------------------------------------------------------------

Review: First, there's an Animorphs reference so this book brought me in very early. I wasn't familiar with the original novel before reading this graphic novel. I didn't even discover this was an adaptation until after I had read the book, so no need to have any prior knowledge to enjoy this graphic novel.

This is a unique Coming Out story. Juliet is traveling to Portland from NYC to intern with a feminist author. There's a lot of weird white lady shit in this book. People are held accountable. Juliet finds her own queer community.

This book has such beautiful colors. The people are drawn in all sizes and colors, making every body look gorgeous. 

White people need to read this story! As a white cis gay man, I recognize that I need to read more queer stories from different perspectives than my own. This book gives representation to non-white-centered queer communities. I love seeing these kind of graphic novel stories getting hype. I give this book a 5/5.


--PAUL

Wednesday, November 25, 2020

Ash & Thorn Volume One: Recipe for Disaster (graphic novel) - Paul's REVIEW

*I received this book as an eARC from Ahoy Comics via NetGalley. I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.*



Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Goodreads

Title: 
Ash & Thorn Volume One: Recipe for Disaster
Author: Mariah McCourt
Artists: Soo Lee & Jill Thompson
Release Date: October 27, 2020


Synopsis: The apocalypse is nigh! The world needs a Champion, and the only heir to a sacred mystical lineage is...a little old lady? Meet Lottie Thorn, reluctant savior of the world, and her also-elderly trainer Lady Peruvia Ashlington-Voss. They might not look it, but these women are prepared to take on any Big Bad that comes along. But first, perhaps a nice cup of tea?

Collecting issues #1-5 of the hit series by writer Mariah McCourt (True Blood, Stitched) and artist Soo Lee (Mine!, Charlie’s Angels vs. the Bionic Woman), with covers by Jill Thompson (Scary Godmother, Wonder Woman: True Amazon). Plus extra features—including recipes!



------------------------------------------------------------

Review: The chosen one is an old woman! I love that this story plays with so many tropes. The main one, obviously, is the champion to prevent the Apocalypse. But there are some fun twists along the way. 
The story is simple, but fun. Great characters. Easy to follow.

Overall, this is a fun Apocalyptic story. There's also baking recipes at the end of the volume! I give this book 4.5/5.  


--PAUL

Tuesday, November 24, 2020

The Ludocrats (graphic novel) - Paul's REVIEW

*I received this book as an eARC from Image Comics via Edelweiss. I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.*



Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Goodreads

Title: The Ludocrats

Author: Kieron Gillen & Jim Rossignol 
Artists: Jeff Stokely & Tamra Bonvillain
Release Date: November 24, 2020


Synopsis: The Ludocrats! The aristocrats of ludicrous! Defending reality from the encroaching forces of boredom while having a nice time. KIERON GILLEN (DIE, THE WICKED + THE DIVINE) and JIM ROSSIGNOL (Sir, You Are Being Hunted) write! JEFF STOKELY (The Spire) draws! TAMRA BONVILLAIN (Once & Future) colors! CLAYTON COWLES (Every excellent comic) letters! The universe screams in pleasure, writhing, finally satisfied, complete, joyous!

COLLECTS ISSUES #1-5 OF THE LUDOCRATS



------------------------------------------------------------

Review: This comic is out there. The most basic premise is a group of aristocrats who are valued for their ridiculousness, I think. The humor is all over the place, but I think that's the point. I understand what the creators are trying to do with this comic, but it is just not my thing. I couldn't really focus on the story. My interest didn't hold. This is an adult book; there is nudity. I give this graphic novel a 2/5. The art is colorful and lively, but the story is confusing and random (not in a good way). 



--PAUL

Monday, November 23, 2020

The Secret Voice: Volume 1 (graphic novel) - Paul's REVIEW

*I received this book as an eARC from Floating World Comics via Edelweiss. I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.*



Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Goodreads

Title: The Secret Voice: Volume 1

Author: Zack Soto
Release Date: April 2, 2019


Synopsis: Doctor Galapagos, famed warrior-monk and agent of the ineffable Red College, is on a desperate mission to unite the realms of magic and man in a last-ditch effort to stop the seemingly invincible forces of the Smog Emperor. But the good Doctor carries a secret: He is one of the few to have faced the dreaded Grey Creep and survived–but at a terrible cost. An unseen and unknown psychic menace eats away at his very soul and threatens to jeopardize his mission... and the world itself. Can the Red College turn the tide? Can Doctor Galapagos stay true to himself, hold on to his love, and defeat the Smog Emperor all at once? 



------------------------------------------------------------

Review: This book has really interesting artwork. It's sketchy with mostly yellows and maroons. This is a trippy fantasy. Honestly, it didn't really keep my attention. I found myself flipping through the pages, not really sure if I was following the story. I give this book a 2/5. It just didn't connect with me.



--PAUL

Sunday, November 22, 2020

It's Your Funeral (graphic novel) - Paul's REVIEW

*I received this book as an eARC from Iron Circus Comics via edelweiss. I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.*



Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Goodreads

Title: It's Your Funeral

Author: Emily Riesbeck
Artists: Ellen Kramer & Matt Krotzer
Release Date: July 21, 2020


Synopsis: Marnie Winters was going to turn her life around; get out of the house, make friends, no more “Miserable Old Marnie!” Everything was going to plan, but then, of course, she died. Now, Marnie’s a ghost trapped on Earth, and the only one who can help her is the overenthusiastic, alien social worker, Xel, whose job is to help ghosts “close their file” and pass on. Are you ready for a sweetly nostalgic trip through Marnie’s life, correcting mistakes and righting what once went wrong? Well sorry, this isn’t that story! Xel has a much better idea to soothe Marnie’s troubled spirit: an internship in the hopeless bureaucracy of the trans-dimensional Department of Spectral Affairs!

This new do-gooder duo has their work cut out for them in a series of hilarious mishaps and misadventures throughout the space-time continuum (but mostly in and around the office) as Marnie finds pathways through her feelings of worthlessness by helping others.

A paranormal fantasy about healing, learning to love yourself, and being OK with being not OK, It’s Your Funeral is the cosmic office comedy you’ve been dying to read! 



------------------------------------------------------------

Review: The Department of Spectral Affairs. This comic is essentially The Office meets a paranormal afterlife. The first issue is really fun and establishes the world well through the main character who is unfamiliar with the afterlife. The premise of the series is set up well: a ghost as an intern, essentially. Each issue following gives a little more focus on the other residents of the office.

This book is a fun, light-hearted story about people making sure dead spirits pass on to the next dimension. The characters are quirky, both in personality and illustration, and it's a pleasant read. It doesn't go to deep. I give this book a 4/5.


--PAUL

Saturday, November 21, 2020

Pistouvi (graphic novel) - Paul's REVIEW

*I received this book as an eARC from Magnetic Press via Edelweiss. I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.*



Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Goodreads

Title: Pistouvi

Author: Merwan
Artists: Bertrand Gatignol
Release Date: November 10, 2020


Synopsis: Childhood should last forever...

Jeanne is a little girl who lies with a mischievous young fox named Pistouvi. They share a charming little treehouse surrounded by a magical prairie tended by a giant 'tractor-man' and the wind-spirit he loves. Together, Jeanne and Pistouvie spend frolicking days without a care, but soon, the birds arrive and everything changes...

A beautiful, lyrical fable about the inevitable transition from childhood freedom to adult responsibility, replete with laughs, nostalgia and heartache.



------------------------------------------------------------

Review: The artwork in this book is beautiful. Everything is anthropomorphized. The animals, of course, but also even tractors and clouds. The way the story plays out reminds me of a video game, specifically something like Legend of Zelda. The fox even eats everything. Or, at least, wants to eat everything.

This book did not connect with me. It seemed like individual disconnected stories with the same characters. I could not find the larger story. And did not have the interest to try and figure out what exactly was happening. I give this book a 2/5. Great artwork, but I had no idea what was happening in the story.


--PAUL

Friday, November 20, 2020

Avatar: The Last Airbender--The Art of the Animated Series - Paul's REVIEW

*I received this book as an eARC from Dark Horse Books via Edelweiss. I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.*


Avatar: The Last Airbender The Art of the Animated Series (Second Edition)  | Penguin Random House International SalesAmazon | Barnes & Noble | Goodreads

Title: 
Avatar: The Last Airbender--The Art of the Animated Series
Author: Michael Dante DiMartino & Bryan Konietzko
Upcoming Release Date: November 24, 2020


Synopsis: Join series creators Bryan Konietzko and Michael Dante DiMartino for an unpreccendented behind-the-scenes look at hundreds of pieces of concept, design, and production art as they take you on a guided tour through the development of this smash-hit television series in this new edition of the beloved artbook. Learn how Avatar: The Last Airbender took shape, from the very first sketch through the series finale, and beyond! This new edition comes with a brand new forward from long time Avatar the Last Airbender series writer Gene Luen Yang.

Avatar: The Last Airbender has been syndicated to more than 120 countries around the world, inspiring millions of fans and industry professionals alike and garnering numerous industry honors--including wins at the prestigious Annie, Peabody, and Primetime Emmy awards.

Perfect for fans of all ages!



------------------------------------------------------------

Review: This art book follows the journey from conception to conclusion of the animated tv series Avatar: The last Airbender. This book is full of interesting images and facts. There are guides for the different seasons showcasing the architecture, locations, creatures, characters, clothing, culture, technology, and more. I especially enjoyed the details about the original pilot.

I give this book a 4/5. It's a great look into the making of an amazing series that has become a classic. This book would be a great gift for any Avatar fans.


--PAUL

Monday, November 16, 2020

Sylvia and Marsha Start a Revolution! (picture book) - Paul's REVIEW

 *I received this book as an eARC from Jessica Kingsley Publishers via NetGalleyI voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.*


Sylvia and Marsha Start a Revolution!: The Story of the Trans Women of  Color Who Made LGBTQ+ History - Kindle edition by Ellison, Joy, Silver,  Teshika. Children Kindle eBooks @ Amazon.com.Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Goodreads

Title: 
Sylvia and Marsha Start a Revolution!: The Story of the Trans Women of Color Who Made LGBTQ+ History
Author: Joy Ellison
Illustrator: Tesh Silver
Upcoming Release Date: November 19, 2020


Synopsis: "Someday girls like us will be able to wear whatever we want. People will call us by the names we choose. They'll respect that we are women. The cops will leave us alone and no one will go hungry."

Sylvia and Marsha are closer than sisters. They are kind and brave and not afraid to speak their truth, even when it makes other people angry.

This illustrated book introduces children to the story of Sylvia Rivera and Marsha P. Johnson, the two transgender women of colour who helped kickstart the Stonewall Riots and dedicated their lives to fighting for LGBTQ+ equality. It introduces children to issues surrounding gender identity and diversity, accompanied by a reading guide and teaching materials to further the conversation.



------------------------------------------------------------

Review: This picture book showcases two amazing trans women of color! It's the Stonewall Riots in children's book format. Plus a glimpse into these two women's lives. This book addresses homelessness. Police are seen as the antagonist, but in a way that is children appropriate. 

After the story, there's plenty of additional resources. There are details and information so that adults can give some context to children who have additional questions. And so the adults have that information for themselves as well. There are even external resources. And some activities. 

The events shown in this book are made appropriate for children so not all the details are there. 

I give this book a 5/5. I love seeing books like this for children. Especially showcasing trans women of color from history.


--PAUL

Friday, November 13, 2020

Patience & Esther: An Edwardian Romance (graphic novel) - Paul's REVIEW

 *I received this book as an eARC from Iron Circus Comics via Edelweiss. I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.*


Amazon.com: Patience & Esther: An Edwardian Romance (9781945820700 ...Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Goodreads

Title: 
Patience & Esther: An Edwardian Romance
Author: SW Searle
Upcoming Release Date: November 17, 2020 January 26, 2021


Synopsis: Patience is a kindhearted country girl, eking out a living in Edwardian England as tremors of social change rock the world around her. When she starts her employment in formal service on the grounds of an opulent country manor, she has no idea that her own personal revolution is about to begin.

Selfless, dutiful, and just a touch naive, she takes to both her place as a parlor maid and to her new roommate, the bookish and progressive lady’s maid, Esther. In another time, the two women would have kept one another’s company forever in their little attic bedroom, living out their days in the employ of a Lord. But it’s now the dawn of a new age. The expanding empire has brought with it not only plundered wealth, but worldliness and new ideas. Suffragists agitate in the street, idle-rich bohemians challenge sexual mores, and Patience and Esther slowly come to realize the world is wider and full of more adventure and opportunity than they ever imagined . . . so long as they find the will to seize it.

Sensual, sweet, and beautifully illustrated, PATIENCE & ESTHER is a steamy period romance and an inspirational erotic journey across the epic sweep of history, from the end of a gilded age to the start of an uncharted future.



------------------------------------------------------------

Review: I LOVED this book! It's basically Downton Abbey BUT sapphic! This is the first exotic Edwardian sapphic romance graphic novel that I have read. It is explicit erotica, so there is plenty of nudity.

The story starts in 1910. Like I said, it has those Downton Abbey Downstairs vibes while also featuring characters of color and queer characters. Two women find each other and find a way to stay together through many different hardships. They find happiness.

There's also a Coffee Shop AU story at the end! 

This is such a great romance story. I give this book a 5/5. If you like sapphic erotica and period drama, you will enjoy this book.


--PAUL

Friday, November 6, 2020

Avatar: The Last Airbender - The Lost Adventures and Team Avatar Tales (graphic novel) - Paul's REVIEW

*I received this book as an eARC from Dark Horse Comics via Edelweiss. I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.*


The Lost Adventures and Team Avatar Tales (Avatar: The Last Airbender) by  Gene Luen Yang, Faith Erin Hicks, Gurihiru, Sara Goetter |, Hardcover |  Barnes & Noble®Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Goodreads

Title: 
Avatar: The Last Airbender - The Lost Adventures and Team Avatar Tales
Authors: Gene Luen Yang & Faith Erin Hicks
Illustrators: Gurihiru & Sara Goetter
Upcoming Release Date: November 10, 2020


Synopsis: The comics continuation of Nickelodeon's hit series Avatar: The Last Airbender returns with a treasure trove of short stories, collected for the first time in hardcover!

Follow Team Avatar as they journey through the four nations! From Earth King Kuei to the Kyoshi Warriors, and Mai to the Boulder, your favorite Avatar: The Last Airbender friends are back for a wide-ranging exploration of life in their world. And where they go, danger, fun, and hijinks are sure to follow!

This full-color hardcover collects short stories from The Lost Adventures and Team Avatar Tales, and includes the work of fan-favorite creators like Michael Dante DiMartino, Gene Luen Yang, Gurihiru, Faith Erin Hicks, Kiku Hughes, and many more! Add this gorgeous collection to your bookshelf today!



------------------------------------------------------------

Review: This is a big book of many short comic stories. Really short. Most of the stories are comedic. Some have messages. The stories come in all different styles. They feature interesting "off screen" moments from the tv series. The book is compiled in chronological order. 

This book would make a great coffee book or casual read for any Avatar fan. There are so many stories and they're of various quality. I give this book a 4/5


--PAUL

Monday, November 2, 2020

Last Dance (graphic novel) - Paul's REVIEW

 *I received this book as an eARC from Iron Circus Comics via Edelweiss. I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.*


Last Dance: Schroy, Hanna: 9781945820724: Amazon.com: BooksAmazon | Barnes & Noble | Goodreads

Title: Last Dance

Author: Hanna Schroy
Upcoming Release Date: November 3, 2020


Synopsis: “For years I’ve watched ballerinas from this room. I want what you want. I wish to join them.”

Miriam has trained her whole life to fulfill her dreams and it’s finally paid off now that she’s the prima ballerina of the Lulli Dance Company, but she’s been keeping a secret from them. The years of sprains, fractures, and bruises have been taking their toll, and a catastrophic ankle injury now means one terrible thing: she has to give it all up forever. Distraught beyond consolation, Miriam runs from the studio and discovers a secret room she’s never seen before. Inside she finds a pair of gleaming white and gold slippers, and a mysterious voice whispering to her in the dark. If she tries on the slippers, it says, she’ll regain the strength to raise en pointe. It speaks the truth! Soon, Miriam is back, but each achievement on her journey back means more negotiation with the spirit who claims it wants just one harmless thing in return . . . to join the ballerinas and dance, just like her.



------------------------------------------------------------

Review: This graphic novel follows a Dance Company as they experience some paranormal things. Unfortunately, I didn't really connect to this story. It took a while for the story to get started. I wanted more emotions earlier. It took awhile to get to the interesting parts. 

The dialogue is stilted and unnatural. The artwork is blocky and pretty basic when it comes to the color scheme, but it works for the story. 

I give this book a 2/5. It didn't connect with me. If you have experienced the drama of prima ballerinas in a Dance Company, you may enjoy this story more than I did. 


--PAUL