REVIEW: Old Demons (Buffy the Vampire Slayer Season 10, Vol 4)

With supreme Big Bad, Archaeus (connected to many Slayers throughout time), wreaking havoc, Buffy and the Scooby Gang need more reinforcements.  Defeating this foe poses a challenge, especially when the extent of Archaeus' power and his plans, and their connection to the new rules of magic, are revealed.

For the first few issues, Angel is back.  It is a bit awkward, especially since Spike and Buffy are a thing again. Angel broods, he and Spike fight, they all talk it out, Angel gets a Willow peptalk, then he leaves again basically biding his time until he thinks Buffy and Spike will break up again in the future. Not a whole lot of character progression for him here.

What I did find interesting was pushing Buffy and Spike's relationship further in later issues, especially touching upon the fateful bathroom violence and near rape of television's season 6. The conversation was long overdue.

I enjoyed Giles grown up romp when he's free from his child body for a bit.  It is always nice to see Olivia show back up.  And I'm curious to see where the plot is going with the not-Anya spirit and also dreading that Riley is going to show back up (make it stop!).

Final rating: 4 out of 5 stars


#buffy #buffythevampireslayer #graphicnovels #comics #DarkHorseComics #vampires #supernatural #humor

REVIEW: The Complete Alice in Wonderland (Graphic Novel)

*Thanks to Netgalley for an ARC in exchange for a fair review*

The Complete Alice in Wonderland is Lewis Carroll's classic two part tale (Alice in Wonderland and Through the Looking Glass) adapted into a graphic novel by Leah Moore and John Reppion with illustrations by Erica Awano.  Alice's adventures are stunningly retold in beautifully artistic panels.

Altogether this upholds the true essence of the classic some 150 years later.

Imaginative. A little creepy. A little weird. However, unforgettable with its famous characters and sense of whimsy.

Recommended for purchase for a public or school library, grades 3 and up.

Final rating: 5 out of 5 stars

Follow Moore on Twitter: @leahmoore

#AliceInWonderland #ThroughTheLookingGlass #graphicnovel #netgalley #classic #review

REVIEW: You Were Here by Cori McCarthy

*Thank you Netgalley for an ARC in exchange for a review*

Expected publication: March 1, 2016

On the anniversary of her older brother's death, Jaycee Strangelove plans to break into Jake's favorite hideout--The Ridges--a former insane asylum on the campus of Ohio University. This yearly excursion usually includes a sighting by Jake's former best friend, Mik, and quite possible Jaycee's 'something more'. Utterly consumed by grief, Jaycee has turned into a daredevil with no plans for the future. 

However, this night reunites her with not only Mik but also three other classmates--Natalie, Zach and Bishop--each with their own dysfunction. When they find a map left detailing Jake's exploration and the unfinished dares he left behind, Jaycee vows to complete the dares in his honor. What Jaycee doesn't count on is her 'friends' involvement and their insistence that she delve deep and reveal the parts of herself she's buried with her brother. 

I adored this book and it is probably my favorite of 2016 thus far.  You Were Here is thoughtfully constructed from its multiple POV shifts in storytelling to the incorporation of graphic novel elements. I really loved how this hybrid format enhances the plot and character development. These characters are wholly relatable as well.  Jaycee's transformation in light of her grief and the unraveling of her family and friendships make her relatable to multiple readers as do the anxieties shared by Natalie, Mik, Zach and Bishop.  While this novel is in part about coping with grief and loss, a stronger theme is coming of age and taking responsibility for your own actions. 

You Were Here has mass appeal for a wide audience of readers. There's angst and romance and plenty of adventure. One caution is that I'd recommend this for a more mature teen reader based on language and adult situations. Overall, once I got started, I couldn't put it down.  I felt compelled to share these characters' journeys and was satisfied with the ending but hopeful that McCarthy might one day give us a glimpse into that promised road trip!

Final rating: 5 out of 5 stars

Follow the author on Twitter: @corimccarthy

#YOUWEREHERE #corimccarthy #realisticfiction #comingofage #gried #dare #romance #forgiveness #friendship #netgalley #YAlit #teen

REVIEW: Deep Dark Fears

Deep Dark Fears is a humorous and at times, creepy, collection of 100 comics illustrated by Fran Krause and based off of fears submitted by readers and a few of his own.  These fears run the spectrum from the plausible to the wholeheartedly ridiculous.

I thought this was hilarious and all too true of some of my deep and darkest fears.  What I can conclude is that people are weird.  Sadly, I'm weird too since even some of the creepy, silly, realistic, and/or implausible scenarios might have crossed my mind at one point or another.

The fears themselves are interesting and memorable; however, Krause's illustrations vividly bring these fears to life.  I recommend this to graphic novel fans but also readers who enjoy humorous adult nonfiction that is unique and quirky.

Final rating: 4 out of 5 stars

Follow Fran Krause on Twitter: @deepdarkfears




#Fears #GraphicNovel #Humor #DeepDarkFears #nonfiction #bookreview #whatimreading

REVIEW: Adulthood Is a Myth by Sarah Andersen

Adulthood Is a Myth is a fantastically hilarious collection of comics by Sarah Andersen chronicling the all too real ups and downs of "adulting." While I may now be firmly in my 30s, I can relate to so many of these images and had to control my laughter when any particular page hit too close to home. Andersen addresses so many key themes including relationships, work, fashion and much more.

I'd definitely recommend this to fans of Hyperbole and a Half by Allie Brosh or if you've read either Let's Pretend This Never Happened or Furiously Happy: A Funny Book About Horrible Things by Jenny Lawson.

Here are a few of my favorite pages:

This definitely applies to myself and pretty much every other bookworm that I know!

This is me in any season! Who wants an actual social life when you can go home and get in your pjs!?!

I swear this was me last night. Just one more chapter!

Final rating: 4 out of  5 stars

Follow Anderson on Twitter: @SarahCAnderson

#adulting #graphicnovel #humor #life #netgalley

REVIEW: Wytches Vol. 1 by Scott Snyder

Wytches is a dark and pretty horrifyingly creepy graphic novel exploring an alternate mythology of witches.  The Rooks family has moved to Litchfield for a fresh start following an accident which left mother, Lucy, paralyzed and the mysterious disappearance of teen daughter, Sailor's bullying nemisis, Annie. However, evil waits in the woods and has more in store for this family. The story provides a unique look at the origins of witches and touches on interesting themes regarding the darker aspects of the human psyche.

I was expecting this to be dark and scary but maybe not quite this much.  The story is intricate and compelling on its own but the graphic novel format with these truly haunting and altogether grisly images pack a punch that is decidedly more terrifying than just the well crafted, written words of many notable horror novelists (i.e. King, Koontz, Maberry). I needed to sleep with the lights on and have a comforting hug when I put this down.

The teaser to the next volume has me intrigued and I will certainly read on--except in daylight, with a blankie.

Final rating: 4 out of 5 stars


#Wytches #GraphicNovel #Horror #ScottSnyder

REVIEW: Driven by Kelley Armstrong

*Thanks to Netgalley for an ARC in exchange for a review*

Expected publication: January 31, 2016 

Driven is the latest Subterranean Press release of a novella in Armstrong's bestselling Otherworld series.  Technically 13.6 in the chronology, the story finds readers once again with newly minted alpha, Elena Michaels, as well as with fan favorite members of the Stonehaven Pack. Strongly tied to the events of Forsaken (13.5), Malcolm Danvers is once again a pack member; however, he has yet to prove his worth or trustworthiness.  When it becomes clear that an unknown group is targeting, torturing and killing members of the Cain mutt werewolves, Elena recruits Malcolm to join her and others to get to the bottom of these deaths before more violence occurs or their supernatural presence gets noticed by the mundane world.

What I liked...

Everything readers love about this series is back.  The character development remains consistent to what we've grown to expect. I've know Elena and Clay so long now that they feel like family.The tension created by Malcolm's arrival is deliciously tense.  I love that Elena's twins, Kate and Logan, unnerve him.  The story with him continues to build and I can't wait to see what is in store for the next entry.

The overall plot is very good.  The mystery and subsequent action are well thought out and keeps readers engaged. In fact, the story is so good, I wish the book was longer. Something else I really enjoyed was the hinting that readers of this series and the two related YA series (Darkest Powers and Darkness Rising) might finally see these converge into a cohesive story.

What I didn't like...

Part of the charm of this continuation of the Otherworld series is Armstrong's partnership with talented artists who render beautiful illustrations to support the narrative.  Unfortunately, the ARC did not include these pictures by Xaviere Daumarie which was a bit of a let down.  However, if they are as good as those in the previous novellas, then readers are in for an extra treat.

The only other aspect that I didn't like about Driven was that it was just too short! I adore the series and can never get enough.

Final rating: 4 out of 5 stars


#driven #kelleyarmstrong #otherworld #netgalley #werewolves #urbanfantasy #graphicnovel

REVIEW: Jim Butcher's Dresden Files: War Cry

War Cry is an original graphic novel story of Jim Butcher's Dresden Files. Set after Dead Beat and during the height of the White Council's war with the Red Court vampires, newly appointed Warden, Harry Dresden leads his young and inexperienced team of Wardens on their first assignment.

Chaos quickly ensues when the mortals they are sent to protect are ambushed by a small army of the Red Court.   The real questions for Dresden remain: just who are these mortals and what are they protecting that is so important to winning the war? Our favorite wizard just might find that out, if and only if, he can keep everyone alive.

I really enjoyed this volume.  The illustrations certainly enhance Butcher's storytelling. The panels are vivid and action packed, making for an exciting experience.  Dresden is the same determined, wise cracking, brute force wielding wizard we love from the series.  I love that the graphic novels are taking the time to explore more stories and characters in a way we haven't had in the novels.

We also get to learn more about Dresden's team and see them struggle with their experience but fight on with that same kind of determination as their unlikely leader.  Another fan favorite makes a surprise appearance but I won't spoil it for readers who haven't caught up yet. Safe to say this arrival is most welcome and fits nicely within the larger story arc (hint: White Night) and character development.

Overall, I didn't love this volume as much as let's say Ghoul Goblin or Welcome to the Jungle. However, it is certainly on par with Down Town.

Final rating: 4 out of 5 stars





#jimbutcher #dresdenfiles #graphicnovel #magic #vampires #warcry #bookreview

REVIEW: Buffy the Vampire Slayer (graphic novels)

Anyone who knows me also knows I'm a rabid Buffy the Vampire Slayer fan. I was from the beginning and my love for the show and the ever growing Buffyverse won't fade any time soon.  I love what the show stood for: the metaphors, the actors, its trendsetting dialogue and humor as well as Joss Whedon's overall vision.

Lately, I've been working to catch up with the graphic novels. I'll start at the beginning and work my way through:

The Omnibi

Volume 1 - 4 out of 5 stars

This was a good start.  I liked the origin stories, notably Whedon's vision for the 1992 film.  While I adore that bit of nostalgia, I understand his frustration and remain glad that he had the opportunity to develop the character for television and graphic novels the way he originally intended.  I particularly liked the Vegas arc including Pike. I'd long wondered what could have been done with the character and it always bothered me that the plot hole existed. 

Volume 2 - 3 out of 5 stars

This collection was pretty lackluster for me.  I always enjoy the Spike and Dru bits. The rest just didn't resonate with me or hold a lasting impression. 

Volume 3 - 2 out of 5 stars

I adore seasons 2 and 3 but this tie in volume fell far short.  The stories just didn't add much to the main theme of the seasons. 

Volume 4 - 3 out of 5 stars

Definitely better entries to wrap up Season 3. Still just okay.

Volume 5 - 3 out of 5 stars

I really enjoyed the Faith vs. Buffy nightmare arc.  While not a huge fan of the Initiative, this volume was better.

Volume 6 - 2 out of 5 stars

Seriously. This volume was just filler. I didn't care for any of the stories.  Moreover, I hated Riley on the television show and it was even worse in graphic novel form. 

Volume 7 - 4 out of 5 stars

A stronger finish.  I always liked seasons 5 and 6 so this volume was of more interest to me.  There were some good tie in stories with the death of Joyce, Buffy's mother and hit on more of the emotional side of these seasons. Also, we saw the return of Pike!  One downfall was that his appearance remains unresolved since this is the last volume.  

Season 8

What do you do when there is more than one slayer and you've demolished a whole town and defeated the First Evil? I liked where the Dark Horse graphic novel representation of season 8 dared to go.  These stories would have easily worked for television but the sheer complexity was great in graphic novel illustration and dialogue. Some old favorites were back (i.e. Warren and Dracula) and there were plenty of twists concerning the Big Bad, a shocking death and some pretty severe magical consequences.

Season 9 

So, you've eliminated magic from the world. What now? Life is never that simple for Buffy and the Scooby Gang.  Buffy has some serious life interruptions to deal with to a surprising conclusion. Spike is the leader of an alien bug race. Willow is on a very significant quest and my favorite part was the appearance of Illyria!  This was definitely a strong story arc to battle zompires, introduce new 'slayers' and plant of new seed of magic.

Season 10

Vol.1: New Rules - With magic back in the world, the rules have changed.  Get ready for some unlikely alliances, the return of some well loved characters and plenty of twists.  I loved the new world building and can't wait for more issues! This volume marks the return of Dracula which is always fun. I can't wait for more! 4 out of 5 stars

Vol. 2: I Wish - loved this...since the rules of magic have changed, everyone is tempted. Andrew is up to his old tricks again which has the potential to be troublesome and heartbreaking. 4 out of 5 stars

Vol. 3: Love Dares You - I promise no spoilers but a heads up for Spuffy fans. Lots of good character development and good story arc plus visits from Buffyverse favs. 5 out of 5 stars

#review #graphicnovel #buffy #BtVS #whedonesque #spuffy

REVIEW: Jim Butcher's Dresden Files: Down Town

Thanks to Netgalley for the free ARC!

If I can't have a new Dresden novel in 2015, the next best thing is an all new original graphic novel.  Down Town takes places a bit after the events of White Night.  Dresden continues to train Molly as his apprentice, especially in honing her telekinetic skills. Another supernatural creature of evil is using Chicago as a deadly playground and our favorite wizard is on a mission to hunt it down before it kills again.

Dresden's investigation leads him deep beneath Chicago to Undertown--abandoned tunnels full of all manner of otherworldly beasties, including the Big Bad du jour. Nothing is ever easy given the unexpected involvement of one of Dresden's biggest enemies--mobster extraordinaire Gentleman John Marcone--tasked with the city's protection under the Unseelie Accords.

Harry, Molly, Mouse and Marcone agree to a temporary alliance as they seek the unnamed sorcerer.  Overall, the characterization and story are enjoyable but the villain lacked depth.  We never learn any more about him and that was disappointing.  The artwork is fantastic and depicts the action and magical sequences well.

Final rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars


#dresdenfiles #jimbutcher #downtown #graphicnovel #magic #UF #netgalley

REVIEW: Showtime (JEM and the Holograms Graphic Novel)

**I received an ARC from Netgalley in exchange for a review.**

Jem and the Holograms was a large part of my childhood growing up in the late 80's.  I'm excited that its making a resurgence in popularity; however, that travesty that is the upcoming film makes me shutter.  I will happily go watch my boxed set and avoid the coming disaster.

That being said, I'm elated that the series has made its way into a graphic novel format. Writers have taken the basic premise and updated it for a more modern teen audience.  Yes, its still cheesy, it has to be--holograms and music videos are a bit dated; however, the desire to make it big in music and petty rivalry never age. 

The story thus far is that Jerrica & Co have a band and want to make a video to enter a contest against The Misfits but Jerrica has stage fright.  Enter Synergy--the computer holographic system left by Jerrica's dearly departed father.  She can use the technology to appear as someone else while performing.  The band is a huge hit, but The Misfits are jealous and out to sabotage them at every turn. 

What I Liked...

The illustrations in and of themselves are a visual feast.  These echo back to the cartoon and I just loved them.  I want to streak my hair and wear cool make-up (oh, what I do!).  The slight changes in plot help out the premise even though the whole thing is pretty far-fetched.

I also liked the modern update of characterization. Kimber falls for Stormer, which is a departure from the cartoon.  This exploration of sexuality will appeal to teen girls experiencing similar feelings. I applaud the writers for going there. I like that this graphic novel is for girls and stands apart from the saturation of traditional superhero titles.

What I Didn't Like...

Again, the improbability of the situation is at times hard to swallow.  The characters are all a little too stereotypical. Pizzazz and her bullying, drama queen meltdowns, Kimber's unreliability, Jerrica's stage-fright. So, while intentions are good, the characters come across as rather shallow.

Final rating 4 out of 5 stars


#graphicnovel #netgalley #jem #YAlit #LBGTQ #music

REVIEW: Fairest, Vol. 5: The Clamour for Glamour

Disclaimer: I received an ARC from Netgalley in exchange for a review

Expected Publication: August 25, 2015

As the final volume of Fairest, I have to say that as a reader I was immensely disappointed.  Parts of this volume fit within the last issues of Fables; however, the bulk of the story feels irrelevant.  If the idea behind the Fairest series was to highlight the Fables women, then this is sorely lacking.  Part of what made the other volumes so interesting was the strong female characters.  I love reading about Cinderella and her various spy adventures. 

What readers find here instead are several prolonged and unnecessary stories.   Reynard the Fox is the envy of most Fables at the Farm although they despise his condescending attitude. These other Fables want the glamours promised to them by Prince Charming; however, such magic on a massive scale is not possible.  Therefore, five glamours will be made and a lottery held. Of course, nothing ever goes smoothly and chaos ensues.  

The primary story centers around Reynard. Having been given glamour to blend in with the mundy world, Reynard goes off, woos a young human woman and they have a child, Fair, who appears human with a fox tail. Reynard thinks he's saving her from her abusive family but everyone ends up living happily ever after or so we're led to believe. 

Since the majority of the series has been focused hiding the Fables from the human world, this story creates a bit of a problem with no clear solution. Perhaps the point is that separating the two is fruitless? Of this I remain unsure.

Overall, this volume was a bit lackluster; however, it still featured stellar illustrations and a commitment to detail and the series that I truly appreciate as a fan. It is sad to see it all come to an end but it was a pretty good ride.

Final rating: 3 out of 5 stars

#fairest #fables #billwillingham #graphicnovel #review #twistedfairytales #netgalley

REVIEW: The Nameless City by Faith Erin Hicks

Disclaimer: I received an ARC from Netgalley in exchange for a review

Expected Publication: April 5, 2016

The Nameless City is the first volume in a trilogy slated for Spring 2016 publication from acclaimed graphic novelist Faith Erin Hicks and First Second Publishing.  Taking place in a historical China or fictional counterpart, readers learn that the 'Nameless City' in fact has thousands of names and is a geographical and political stronghold. Whenever a new regime takes over, the city is renamed.  

Enter young Kaidu, who has just come to the city to train as a Dao warrior. He soon learns that such training will be difficult as will garnering the affection of his busy and often absent father.  Soon Kai meets Rat, a homeless street urchin. She, like so many others, is not treated as a person because of her lack of social status.  Kai and Rat build a realistic friendship that is in many ways the crux of this story.

Perhaps, more importantly, greater themes of rebellion, freedom, and social inequality are intrinsic notions throughout this work. As the political situation of the Nameless City, appears to unravel, the next parts of the story will see all factions of citizens working together for a common goal.

I enjoyed the art, characters, themes and overall story. I am intrigued to see what Hicks explores for the rest of the trilogy.  Fans of Hicks' previous works (i.e. Friends with Boys) will recognize the common ties of friendship and a desire to fit in despite outside odds.

Final rating: 4 out of 5 stars

#review #netgalley #faitherinhicks #namelesscity #graphicnovel #YAlit

REVIEW: Fables Vol. 22: Farewell

Disclaimer: I received an ARC from Netgalley in exchange for a review

Reading Fables has been a monumental part of my life for the past several years. In fact, these were the first graphic novels I ever read.  As the series comes to a close, there is a bittersweet sense of finality.

This final volume brings readers once again to the ultimate showdown between Snow White and Rose Red. Who will win this battle? Who will choose sides? Who lives? Who dies? Will Bigby remember his family or slaughter them all? All of our questions are answered and then some Likewise, fan favorites such a Boy blue, Lake, Flycatcher, Grimble and more take a final bow with great flourish.

Fans certainly won't be disappointed. This is a fitting end with much of the tell tale elements Fables lovers have come to expect.  There is certainly close attention paid to characters and the finalization of key stories.  While most loose ends are wrapped up nicely, readers get a few glimpses into the future which lead us filling fulfilled but also wanting more.

The illustrations continue to be colorful, detailed and so lush that the seem to jump from the page. I'm sad that this is the end of an era; however, Fables goes out on top.

Final rating: 4 out of 5 stars

#review #netgalley #Fables #BillWillingham #graphicnovel

REVIEW: Trashed by Derf Backderf

Disclaimer: I received an ARC from Netgalley in exchange for a review

Expected Publication: November 3, 2015

Illustrator and graphic novelist extraordinaire Derf Backderf (most notably of My Friend Dahmer fame) shares with readers an intimate, humorous and well informed look into the life and processes of garbage collection.  Trash. We all make and typically take for granted not only the collection process, those who work in this field and more importantly just how much trash individuals discard on a daily basis.

This graphic novel is a sincere yet biting look at this industry based on Backderf's own work experience as a trash collector. Fans of his work will see similarities.  Much attention is paid not only to dialog but also detailed black and white illustrations. There is certainly an edge of dark humor; however, what is most impressive is Backderf's incorporation of research, facts and additional statistics about the history of landfills and their impact on the planet.

As a reader, I came to this topic not entirely devoid of knowledge but I learned so much more and appreciate the author's message. Backderf's work sheds light on the issue in a unique manner and does so in a genre that will appeal to a wide audience. I continue to admire the author's style.  While black and white illustrations are less flashy than some, Backderf's attention to detail and artistic talent bring each illustration into focus.

Overall, I recommend this to fans of Backderf's work, graphic novel readers and those looking to be educated or teach other about trash and its effect on the environment in a uniquely humorous way.

Final rating: 4 out of 5 stars.


#trashed #derfbackderf #review #graphicnovel #netgalley 

REVIEW: Apollo-the Brilliant One (Olympians #8) by George O'Connor

Disclaimer: I received an ARC from Netgalley in exchange for a review

Slated for a January 2016 release, Apollo: the Brilliant One marks the 8th release in O'Connor's graphic novel Olympians series. Within this volume, O'Connor continues to blend thoughtful illustrations with an approachable history for each major Olympian.

What I enjoyed most was that each story is told by at least one of the nine muses.  As in other volumes, the stories include the background of Apollo's birth and other notable stories including the slaying of Python, which illustrates the significance of the Pythian oracle at Delphi. Also included are Apollo's ill-fated infatuations with both Daphne and Hyacinth. 

The last two stories round out Apollo as a multi-faceted and often vengeful deity.  The tragedies of Marsya and Asklepios exhibit for readers that the god of the sun, inspiration, music, and medicine is not without the dark side present within the other Olympians.  Readers learn of Apollo's cruel vengeance against the satyr, Marsya, for daring to best the god is a musical competition. 

Likewise, the story of Apollo's son, Asklepios, his rise, and tragic death at the hands of Zeus, illustrates Apollo's brash reactions (killing Zeus' beloved cyclops') while demonstrating his distress over losing his son.

Perhaps the following quote per the Muses best sums up Apollo and this particular volume: 

"He is the best of what Olympus has to offer, and the worst...The most divine god is the most human."

I highly recommend this novel for upper juvenile, middle school, high school and readers of any age who are interested in Greek mythology and graphic novels.  If you have not read the previous titles, please do so. They are very well done and would be a great purchase for any public, school, or personal library.

Final rating: 5 out of 5

#olympians #apollo #greekmythology #graphic novel #YAlit #netgalley