Your guide to not to Getting Murdered in a quaint English Village by Maureen Johnson is a 2021 Ten Speed Press publication.
A must for mystery lovers-Your guide to not to Getting Murdered in a quaint English Village by Maureen Johnson is a 2021 Ten Speed Press publication.
A must for mystery lovers- especially the British variety! Yes, I do love a quaint English village- and of course, crime fiction readers, do know better than to be fooled by the deceptiveness of the bucolic scenery. That is what made this satirical graphic novel so funny. There’s a lot of dark humor, along with many fabulous illustrations, which made this a very entertaining book! This is a quick, one-sitting type of book, and was a nice change of pace.
Overall, I loved this graphic novel and highly recommend it to mystery lovers, of course, and maybe more for those who aren’t aware of the dangers of visiting a quaint English village….
Creepy Cat Vol 1 by Cotton Valent is a 2021 Seven Seas publication.
This is a fun graphic novel gear to the young adult audience. The dialogue is veryCreepy Cat Vol 1 by Cotton Valent is a 2021 Seven Seas publication.
This is a fun graphic novel gear to the young adult audience. The dialogue is very sparse, but the artwork is vibrant and colorful.
Flora moves into her new home only to discover she is not the only resident. It seems a peculiar cat also resides in the home. The story has a paranormal/ Gothic vibe, but it’s quite gentle and mostly funny. There’s no story here, and that should be made very clear, so mainly one is looking at a series of comic drawings with no rhyme or reason behind them- but the book is still entertaining and worth checking out for the great artwork… for the creepy cat, of course.
Murder Book: A Graphic Memoir of a True Crime Obsession by Hilary Fitzgerald Campbell is a 2021 Andrews McMeel Publishing publication.
With just a fewMurder Book: A Graphic Memoir of a True Crime Obsession by Hilary Fitzgerald Campbell is a 2021 Andrews McMeel Publishing publication.
With just a few exceptions, this book could have been about me!
Well, to be clear- I’d be the mother in this book- and I’ve made my daughter a true crime addict, too. (As you will discover- that’s not a bad thing, at all)
So, I could relate to this book quite a bit. I have watched the movies, read the books, watched all the crime shows and documentaries.
Two things I don’t do, though, are- Nancy Grace- and podcasts- but I have tried to add the podcasts in on occasion.
But alas, this story is not about me…
The story is about a woman, Hilary Fitzgerald Campbell, who is obsessed with True Crime. She thinks she inherited this interest in crime from her mother, but wants to try and figure out the psychology behind why people find true crime so entertaining.
High profile cases like that of the Zodiac and Ted Bundy are profiled and analyzed, for starters, moving on to other cases, like Anne Marie Fahey.
Hilary lists the authors she loves, and crime shows she watches- both fiction and non-fiction and then of course, as her life progresses, she discovers the true crime podcast.
The author attempts to make her obsession sound not all that strange, while admitting there’s some weirdness about enjoying the genre.
Other than one warped religious remark, early on, I thought the book was hilarious, and so true. The author nails the obsessive behaviors of many true crime enthusiast, most of whom are women, and many of us can see ourselves in this book.
The illustrations are in black and white, perhaps more like something you might see in a newspaper or magazine, than the traditional graphic novel.
I enjoyed the criminal cases she chose to examine and got a kick out her defense of the true crime genre and understood her need to explain why she enjoys it and can relate to feeling a certain amount of guilt about that, as well, occasionally wondering what it said about me that I got into what Hilary calls “all that murder s**t”.
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As her investigation deepens her findings will give all us ladies who enjoy true crime a better understanding of what it is about the genre that attracts us, and we can all breathe a great big sigh of relief because I agree wholeheartedly with Hilary’s findings! No need to explain or feel guilty anymore!
Women really have made true crime better!
The Thanksgiving scene at the end was hilarious and brilliant and I loved, loved, loved the way the book ends!
Anyone up for an episode of Law & Order? Dun Dun!...more
Catwoman Volume one: Trail of the Catwoman is a 2012 DC Comics publication. (Originally published in 2008)
Because I named my new kitten, Selina, afteCatwoman Volume one: Trail of the Catwoman is a 2012 DC Comics publication. (Originally published in 2008)
Because I named my new kitten, Selina, after Catwoman, it was only fitting that I catch up on a few Catwoman comics for fun. There are SO many to choose from, I had a hard time deciding where to begin. This one was on Hoopla and it seemed to be well received- so I thought this might be a good place to dive in.
This volume is hefty. Selina’s Big score, plus detective comics 759-762 = Three hundred + pages.
Why I am drawn to the Catwoman character is her complexity. She’s got a painful past, has not always walked on good side of the law, but is a character who wants to be a good person-at least in this volume of stories.
In this collection, Selina has faked her own death. She returns to Gotham City, has a little bit of a makeover, and then begins doing some detective work, hoping to find a serial killer targeting sex -workers.
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The action takes place in the East End where the people need an equalizer of Catwoman’s caliber.
The first part of the novel is part heist, part noir, and sets the stage Selina/Catwoman’s new outlook on life.
I enjoyed the graphics, dialogue and stories included in this collection. I have even more angles of Catwoman to ponder on and found this volume to be entertaining and a nice diversion for me. Now on to Volume 2....more
Excellent beginning for this series! I'm watching the anime version on Hulu- which is fun. The reluctant ghoul is a great premise! Looking forward to Excellent beginning for this series! I'm watching the anime version on Hulu- which is fun. The reluctant ghoul is a great premise! Looking forward to the next installment! ...more
Good Talk: A Memoir in Conversation by Mira Jacobs is a 2019 One World publication.
Thought provoking, humorous, deeply revealing, and heart wrenchingGood Talk: A Memoir in Conversation by Mira Jacobs is a 2019 One World publication.
Thought provoking, humorous, deeply revealing, and heart wrenching
A new- found interest in graphic novels led me to this book originally. When I started reading this book, I had no idea I was about to have my emotions put through the wringer. Despite the raw feelings exposed in this novel, I can’t stress how important I think the book is. All Americans should give this book a try, because so many people are too squeamish to have these tough discussions, and I think this book could help promote understanding and healing.
Mira Jacob’s six year old son begins asking his mother some pointed and blunt questions about skin tone, race, and other situations in his life, prompting Mira to think of the conflicted messages she received while growing up, while allowing a few pent up frustrations to surface, as she ponders the best way to address her son’s questions.
For regular readers of graphic novels, the artwork might come as a bit of a surprise. The graphics consist of real photographs with superimposed artwork added in. The art is not eye popping, with well -drawn facial expressions or vivid colorization. In fact, to be blunt, the author used some of the same artwork in several photographs more than once, and the features are very plain. However, there is a method to the madness, and if one thinks about it, this is a more fitting approach, and is most assuredly done by design.
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I truly appreciated the reality of this memoir. It is frank, raw, messy, and very honest. Often there are no pat answers and each person’s situation is unique. For Mira, she is an Indian with a darker complexion and her husband is Jewish. Her mixed- race son, Z, is quite perceptive, especially in our current political climate, and his questions prompt some uncomfortable conversations. This is a good thing, though. Mira doesn’t always know how to answer Z, something all parents can understand. Yet, when it comes to race and bigotry, explanations can be a bit tricky.
At times Mira can seem a little sharp, as her frustrations spill over causing a little friction in her marriage. But this is part of her journey, which in having these frank conversations with her son, friends, husband, extended family and others on the periphery of her life, she discovers certain truths about herself.
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I had a good, heaving cry while reading this book. It truly made my heart hurt. Dear Mira, I do hope you know that many people, despite not living within the same set of circumstances as yourself, do very keenly feel your pain. As serious as all this sounds, the book is markedly funny at times, and it is even cathartic in some ways. The title of the book is apt- This is indeed a “Good Talk”, one we all should consider taking part in. A must read!...more
Jane Eyre: Manga Classic by Charlotte Bronte and Stacy King is a 2016 UDON Entertainment publication.
If are reading this review on Goodreads, then yoJane Eyre: Manga Classic by Charlotte Bronte and Stacy King is a 2016 UDON Entertainment publication.
If are reading this review on Goodreads, then you can tell from my profile pic/avatar that I’m a huge fan of Jane Eyre. So, with my developing interest in Manga/Comics/Graphic Novels, choosing this book was a no- brainer for me.
Yet, at the same time, I might have been taking a risk, since the story is one my favorites. What if the graphics didn’t live up to my expectations or what if the story was restructured in a way that disappointed me? Well, I need not have worried. Stacy King has been the illustrator for several other Manga Classics and has always done a wonderful job of formatting these beloved stories into the Manga format. This one was no exception.
I’ve read Jane Eyre several times, have seen several movie adaptations, as well, but reading it with these vivid illustrations truly brings the story to life in a way anyone can appreciate and enjoy.
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I won’t rehash the plot, as it is familiar to most everyone. I will say that this book is part of the reason I developed a love for Gothic fiction and is one of the reasons why it holds a special place in my heart.
So, enjoying this story again, in a new format has been a real treat. The artist did an amazing job with the characters’ facial expressions and period clothing, while adhering to the unique Manga art form. Although, I must admit, Jane isn’t really all that plain, in this book- she’s simply adorable!! The book is structured in such a way the reader is truly engaged and the story flows at a nice fresh pace.
Overall, this is another outstanding addition to the Manga Classics library.
A Bride for Glenmore by Sarah Morgan and Haruhi Sakura (Illustrator) is a 2018 Harlequin/ SB Creative publication.
I read the original Harlequin MedicA Bride for Glenmore by Sarah Morgan and Haruhi Sakura (Illustrator) is a 2018 Harlequin/ SB Creative publication.
I read the original Harlequin Medical release of this book not all that long ago. I really like Sarah Morgan and am pleased with the direction her career has taken. It’s so fun to watch an author’s blossom. It is also fun to see one of Sarah’s books released as a Manga.
The story is centered around the small community of Glenmore and the medical dramas they encounter, ranging from minor incidents to serious issues. Dr. Logan MacNeil has decided he needs a little additional help during the summer months.
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Dr. Ethan Walker is hired and Logan’s sister, Kyla, a nurse, helps the new doctor familiarize himself with the clinic. At first Ethan’s big city attitude is annoying, but the more time he spends with Kyla, the closer they become. However, Ethan his harboring an explosive secret, one that could change the way Kyla feels about him. Not only that, their budding romance can’t deepen into anything too serious because Ethan has no plans to stick around Glenmore Island once the summer is over.
This is a wonderful medical romance with a very surprising twist I never saw coming, when I read the original story this Manga is based on.
Now, however, since I already knew what the big secret was, the fun was in seeing the story come to life through the fabulous artwork. The illustrator captured the characters and the scenery quite well.
Rachel Rising Vol. 1- The Shadow of Death by Terry Moore is a 2012 publication.
This series is going to be awesome!
This series in available with 'comRachel Rising Vol. 1- The Shadow of Death by Terry Moore is a 2012 publication.
This series is going to be awesome!
This series in available with 'comiXology' unlimited, so I decided to check out the first volume going in completely blind.
Rachel wakes up in a shallow grave, realizing someone had tried to kill her. Clawing her way out, she goes in search of a killer.
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Part mystery, part supernatural horror, this black and white comic hooked me immediately. I loved dark, macabre atmosphere, the humor, and the depth of the story, which had an almost hypnotic effect on me. [image]
The supernatural investigation kept me reader guessing, wondering about witches and the un-dead. The philosophical discussions about life and death are absorbing adding another layer to the story.
Unlike nearly everyone else who read graphic novels, I have not read any of Terry Moore’s other series. I must say, this is most excited I’ve been about a graphic novel series, since I began taste testing them a few months back.
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This story is very creepy, with the artwork carrying the bulk of the load, magnifying the feeling of unease and suspense beautifully. I’m hooked!
Charlie’s Angels: The Devil You Know- Vol 1 by John Layman is a 2019 Diamond/ Dynamite Entertainment publication.
"Once upon a time, there were three Charlie’s Angels: The Devil You Know- Vol 1 by John Layman is a 2019 Diamond/ Dynamite Entertainment publication.
"Once upon a time, there were three little girls who went to the police academy. And they were each assigned very hazardous duties, but I took them all away ...
An awesome graphic novel set back in the 1970’s featuring the original cast of Charlie’s Angels- Jill, Kelly, and Sabrina.
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This five- volume collection begins with a benign assignment as a nightclub owner and impersonator ask Charlie for help after making an unwise alliance with the mafia. But, just as the Angels close the case, they discover it is far from over.
Before they know it, they are embroiled in an international spying case, which sends them globe-trotting to Germany and Paris to save the President of the United States- Jimmy Carter.
This is a very solid, action packed story, which captures the spirit of the original television show, while proving these ladies were way ahead of their time. The time frame is centered around the cold war nuclear fears, as the KBG is hoping to snare secret nuclear information. Each segment is full of witty dialogue, loads of action and adventure and plenty of cloak and dagger plots.
I absolutely loved the conclusion and can’t wait to read the second volume!
So, we know the writing is great. But, what about the graphics? The artwork is excellent! Although Jimmy Carter wasn’t all that recognizable, in my opinion, everything else was fantastic. Very detailed facial expressions, vibrant colors, and wonderful depictions of seventies fashions and hairstyles!!
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I read this one on my computer using Adobe Digital Editions, which was smooth going for a change, but I’m sure it will translate well on a tablet or phone, as well....more
The Twilight Man by Koren Shadmi is a 2019 Life Drawn publication.
An imaginative biographical novel Rod Serling would approve of!
Well, how cool is tThe Twilight Man by Koren Shadmi is a 2019 Life Drawn publication.
An imaginative biographical novel Rod Serling would approve of!
Well, how cool is this? The second I saw this book I knew I had to read it! Why? Because I love, love, love The Twilight Zone! I was also a fan of ‘Night Gallery’ and loved Serling’s narration of both anthology series.
But, once I started reading the book, I realized I didn’t really know anything at all about Rod Serling. As his story unfolds, I learned about his military service and some daredevil stunts he participated in. But, before he found success, he went through more than his fair share of rejections. He was just too far ahead of his time, unafraid of addressing uncomfortable subject matter.
His journey to success is fascinating. He was indeed a revolutionary, challenging the television establishment- which earned him the moniker of “Angry Young Man”. I think we owe Serling more than we realized!
This is a must for fans of the Twilight Zone and Rod Serling, but anyone who likes entertainment history will find this book very interesting. Rod packed a lot of living in his short life and his legacy is one that has far surpassed his wildest imagination. The deep meanings of some of the Twilight Zone episodes go far beyond mere science fiction and unexplained phenomena.
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While I do believe I have watched every episode at least twice, I sometimes find myself in the mood to watch the series over again. Each time I am struck by the imagination and genius of the show- now I’m struck by imagination and genius behind the show!
Charmed: A Thousand Deaths by Erica Schultz, Maria Sanapo (Illustrator) is a 2017 Dynamite Entertainment publication.
A comic based on Charmed- I coulCharmed: A Thousand Deaths by Erica Schultz, Maria Sanapo (Illustrator) is a 2017 Dynamite Entertainment publication.
A comic based on Charmed- I couldn’t resist. I used to watch this with my daughter after school when it aired on TNT. Even after she moved on to other things, my husband and I couldn’t stop watching it. LOL!
This franchise that has stayed popular long after the original series went off the air. I knew there were books based on the show, but only recently discovered the comics.
This artwork is awesome, very bright and brilliant colors, and looks great on my Kindle. The style and atmosphere of the 90s is captured nicely,reminding me of how much fun this show was.
However, the storyline is very weak. It’s a very quick read, of course, and you will have to catch the next installment to continue the storyline, and because I was a little frustrated with this first installment, I immediately borrowed the next chapter to see if things improved. Although, this first chapter is quite unstable, it looks like the next installment is much improved. I will read a few more to see if it worth continuing with it or not.
Not the best start but giving the series the benefit of the doubt- for now. Plot- 2 stars Graphic Art -4 stars ...more
The Escape Manual for Introverts by Katie Vaz is a 2019 Andrews McMeel Publishing release.
A constructive, comical, and applicable guide for all intrThe Escape Manual for Introverts by Katie Vaz is a 2019 Andrews McMeel Publishing release.
A constructive, comical, and applicable guide for all introverts!
Anyone following my reviews has probably heard me allude to my being an introvert. I’m not just an introvert- but an extreme introvert- I also LIKE being an introvert. Extroverts tend not to understand that, so I’ve read several books on how to bridge the gap or cope in an extroverted world.
This book does a fine job of giving those who find themselves in overwhelming social situations a way out without looking anti-social or rude. Some of these suggestions are a bit outlandish, but most are quite plausible.
My one complaint, though, is that the book is listed as a graphic novel. I’ll have to agree to disagree on that point, since I’d call it a self -help book with graphics included, since it is mostly written in black and white text. The 'graphic novel' description is used fast and loose and I think it's misleading.
Although I was a bit irritated that the graphics weren’t quite as advertised, the artwork is a nice addition, even though it is a bit simplistic.
While some folks might look at the antics suggested in the book as over the top, truth be told, I’ve actually done many of the things the author suggested. The great thing is these suggestions help one plan and execute the escape with grace and aplomb.
Naturally, the book is also funny, and very relatable for the introvert- but It might also help extroverts gain a better understanding of how we think and how the stress of ‘peopling’ makes us feel.
I think these tips will be especially useful at this time of year when the holidays present a slew of social invitations and family gatherings, which are very stressful, and invade one’s quiet alone time.
The book is short, easy to read, and while some of it is a bit exaggerated at times. it is also very entertaining- and most of the tips are quite useful and I will certainly make use of them.
Overall, this is a fun, little book all introverts will find helpful and enjoyable!
Never Go Back by Kinuko Nakayama (Illustrator), Anne Weale is a 2018 Harlequin/ SB Creative publication.
Nine years ago, Olivia, only nineteen, and heNever Go Back by Kinuko Nakayama (Illustrator), Anne Weale is a 2018 Harlequin/ SB Creative publication.
Nine years ago, Olivia, only nineteen, and her grandfather were forced to leave the mansion where she had grown up after the owner passed away.
Now, as an interior designer, she has been commissioned to renovate the mansion, a lucrative project to be sure. But if she accepts the offer, she will also face Ludwig, the man who inherited the mansion, and forced her out, and in her mind, is responsible for her grandfather’s death. However, the job is simply too good to pass up, not just for the money, but for the opportunity for revenge. Ludwig didn’t seem to remember Olivia, or the dramatic scene she displayed nine years ago, or does he? The more time Olivia spends with Ludwig, the harder it is to remember her vendetta against him. Will Olivia exact her revenge or will succumb to Ludwig’s charms instead?
Out of curiosity, I looked up the original version of this book, written by Anne Weale and published by Harlequin back in 1995. The Goodreads reviews for that book are not good. However, this updated version is okay, although a bit too hurried.
It is a little rushed and the chemistry between Olivia and Ludwig, which should have featured some interesting fireworks, fizzles instead of sizzles and the story overall is a bit bland. But I did like the Olivia’s transformation, and the little twist that put things into a new perspective. Ludwig (that name!!), is a real charmer, and despite being suspicious of him, I grew to like him as much as Olivia did.
Naturally, the artwork is the centerpiece of these reprised stories and although I’ve never been disappointed in the graphics from SB Creative Manga Comics, the work here is a grade above what I’ve encountered previously.
Overall, the story is okay- I give it 3 stars, but the artwork is exceptional and gets a 4.5.
Sense & Sensibility – Manga Classics- by Jane Austen and Stacy King- is a 2016 UDON entertainment publication.
Sense & Sensibility is Jane Austen’s fiSense & Sensibility – Manga Classics- by Jane Austen and Stacy King- is a 2016 UDON entertainment publication.
Sense & Sensibility is Jane Austen’s first novel, written anonymously. The tale primarily evolves around two sisters, Marianne and Elinor Dagwood, one of which is dreamy eyed, insisting on holding out for a man with charisma, while Elinor takes a more sensible approach.
Although the sisters meet and fall in love with men matching their personas, both will experience disappointment and heartbreak. Will they ever find true love?
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When I first began familiarizing myself with Manga, I discovered many classic novels have been converted into the Manga format. At first, I was a bit skeptical, however, once I tried a couple of these Manga Classics, I realized what a great idea this was. The authors and artists are highly respectful to the original, while breathing new life into these timeless classics.
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For those who are fans of the classics, this is a great way to revisit them. The artwork is always fantastic, and it is fun to see these characters visualized in such a way. If you have never read these classic stories, the Manga version is a gentle, and entertaining way to introduce oneself with the beloved stories that have endured for so long.
The story itself is a classic romance, full of high drama, twists and angst. Good sense wins out in the end, as does true love.
This delightful story is condensed down a bit in this format, but the author did a terrific job with what couldn’t have been an easy task. Overall, this is a great way to touch base with your favorite classics in less time, while enjoying the amazing visuals that accompany the story.
Brody’s Ghost by Vol.1 By Mark Crilley is a 2010 Dark Horse Originals publication.
This is another gem in the comic/graphic novel realm I stumbled acrBrody’s Ghost by Vol.1 By Mark Crilley is a 2010 Dark Horse Originals publication.
This is another gem in the comic/graphic novel realm I stumbled across, thanks to the Houston public library. (You can enjoy the novel on your Kindle or right from your computer browser without Adobe digital Editions!)
This first volume introduces us to Brody, a heartbroken guy pining over the loss of his girlfriend several months back. He’s pretty much let himself go. He’s out of shape, grew his hair long, and works odd jobs, and plays his guitar for tips.
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But his life takes a very weird turn when he is approached by the teenage ghost, named Talia. Talia has searched for someone who can help her solve a major crime so she can finally get into heaven. Because Brody can see her, she thinks she’s finally found her guy. But- Brody lacks some key psychic abilities prompting Talia to put him in training.
This graphic novel, illustrated in black and white, is going to be a great series, I can tell. The artwork fits the gritty city and the mood of the characters. The characters are drawn with fantastic expressions capturing their emotions perfectly.
I understand why this graphic novel has such high ratings and glowing reviews. I will be continuing on with this series, for sure.
For more Manga, Comics, and Graphic Novel reviews, check out my weekly ‘Manga Monday’ feature at The Book Review- https://www.the-bookreview.com...more
A Fire Story by Brian Fies is a 2019 Harry N. Abrams publication.
This graphic novel depicts Brian Fies’ personal experiences when he lost his home duA Fire Story by Brian Fies is a 2019 Harry N. Abrams publication.
This graphic novel depicts Brian Fies’ personal experiences when he lost his home during the 2017 Northern California wildfires.
His Webcomic and subsequent graphic novel has been a cathartic journey as he chronicles the various emotions he and his family felt, in the process of moving forward after such an incredibly difficult loss. He also adds others personal stories into the novel, adding even more poignancy to the devastation. The sense of community is also prevalent as people rose to the occasion to help their families, friends, and neighbors.
Brian’s sense of displacement, his broken- heartedness, and shock, leaps from the pages as does his temerity and the admission that while the process is slow and hard, and the days ahead were long and arduous, he and his family are determined to move forward and rebuild their lives.
My heart truly broke for Brian and the other families and people who shared their stories. Brian did a terrific job conveying his emotions and the way he and others around him dealt with the pain and what steps they had to take in order to move on with their lives.
From a personal standpoint, I have never experienced such a devastating loss. However, while in high school, two good friends of mine lost their homes to fire. It is so hard to comprehend, unless you experience something like that in an up close and personal way, how truly devastating it is to lose every single thing you own. It’s not just the obvious loss of things and stuff, it’s the sentimental loss, and the feeling of disassociation. Rebuilding, even if you have good insurance, even with the promise of a fresh start, just doesn’t offer all that much comfort when all you want to do is go home.
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This is a very emotional and powerful story which started as a Webcomic, which is also included in this book. Because this is a graphic novel, and the visuals are of utmost importance within this format, I must admit I wasn’t bowled over by the artwork. The style may have been a statement, in part due to the gravity of the subject matter. The artwork is in black and white and maybe a little too simplistic, but again, but it does capture the essence of the situation, which is what counts at the end of the day. The timeline is also a bit choppy, but not hard to follow and is really a minor complaint. There are also real photos included driving home the reality of damage done by the raging fires.
I recommend this book to everyone, even if graphic novels aren't really your thing. Once the impact hits you, you will most likely feel compelled to count your blessings and will feel grateful for having a roof over your head, a toothbrush, a change of clothes, your personal papers, and a hundred other small things we all take for granted every day.
I was also inspired by Brian’s story, his bravery in sharing his raw emotions with us, and despite his depressing circumstances, his fortitude, his sense of humor, and compassion for others who shared in his loss.
Lover’s Touch by Juri Nakao, ( Illustrator), Penny Jordan is a 2017 Harlequin/ SB Creative publication.
Eleanor de Tressail gets saddled with an enormLover’s Touch by Juri Nakao, ( Illustrator), Penny Jordan is a 2017 Harlequin/ SB Creative publication.
Eleanor de Tressail gets saddled with an enormous estate tax after her father and grandfather pass away. While she is trying figure out a way to keep the estate in the family and pay the taxes, her shallow step-sister is pressuring her to sell the property and split the proceeds.
However, the trustee of their finances, Joss, shows up and offers Eleanor a most unusual solution to her dilemma- a marriage of convenience!
Joss and Eleanor have a complicated past. Eleanor loves Joss, but is positive he could never return her feelings.
This short story is based on the Harlequin novel published by the late Penny Jordon back in 1989. The story is slightly rushed, but I thought the Manga version did the original story justice and as always, the illustrations are top notch.
I love the theme in this book, as the good looking, wealthy man appreciates Eleanor for who she is, loving her, whether she has her glam on, or if she is dressed casually, seeing her inner beauty and depth, which is always a nice concept and a lovely message.
Penny was a big favorite of mine way back in the day, so it is so lovely to see some of her books enjoyed once again in such an imaginative and visual format.
Archie, Vol 1- The New Riverdale by Mark Waid, Fiona Staples (Illustrator), Annie Wu (Illustrator), Veronica Fish (Illustrator) is a 2016 Archie ComicArchie, Vol 1- The New Riverdale by Mark Waid, Fiona Staples (Illustrator), Annie Wu (Illustrator), Veronica Fish (Illustrator) is a 2016 Archie Comics publication.
As an old timer, I grew up eagerly awaiting the Sunday paper so I could read the color comic section. Archie was one of my favorites, as were the cartoons which aired on television Saturday or Sunday. I may have even owned a few Archie Comics at one time.
When my kids were growing up, however, the comics and cartoons etc., they were interested in were vastly different. I didn’t keep up with the comic trends and didn’t understand the furor over graphic novels until recently.
Learning about graphic novels, comics and manga has been very interesting, and fun. I have discovered some subscription services – one for Marvel Comics, one for Archie Comics and of course, ComiXology. I’ve stuck with the latter for starters since it has a nice mix of everything, as I am still experimenting.
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I think the Marvel Comics material pretty much speaks for itself and I would expect nothing less than the best in writers, art, and presentation. But I’ve been curious about the Archie comics, wondering what made the imprint so wildly popular.
Well, now I know.
This is an updated version, or reboot, if you will, of the classic Archie comics, but never fear, the changes aren’t THAT radical. This is still benign teenage fare- or at least it is, so far. The love triangle between Archie, Betty and Veronica, the hunger-gut, Jughead, and other favorite characters are here, along with a few new ones. The stories included in the first collection are original and the added elements of diversity and inclusivity are only fitting.
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The graphics and art blew me away! Wow! Amazing, vivid colorization. The novel works better than any graphic novel I’ve tried reading on my Kindle. I can see the dialogue easily, and I loved that the author had respect for the old school Archie comics, maintaining the same atmosphere, but obviously resonating with the modern reader. It still brought back fond memories.
Overall, this collection was great fun and I’m going to make an effort to continue on with the series, although it is most definitely geared towards teens and the YA audience.
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I can’t lie and tell you I didn’t get into the love triangle, or that I didn’t chuckle at the angst and drama or find the story wildly entertaining. So, I’m all in!
Practically Married by Eve Takigawa- Illustrator and Christine Rimmer is a 2017 Harlequin Books and SB Creations publication.
Oh, my goodness! I love Practically Married by Eve Takigawa- Illustrator and Christine Rimmer is a 2017 Harlequin Books and SB Creations publication.
Oh, my goodness! I love Christine Rimmer!!
I've many of her books over the years, so when I saw this Harlequin Manga book based on one of her old novels I had to have it. It took me a few tries to find one of these Harlequin comics that had a great story to go with the awesome artwork, However, part of the problem was that I didn't realize most of these Harlequin Manga Comics are based on stories written ages and ages ago.
I don't know why that is, but if there are newer Harlequin novels being formatted to the Manga format, I've yet to discover one.
So, now that I understand how it works, and know what to expect going in, I'm finding these books can be a whole lot fun, even if the story is occasionally cringe worthy.
This book, does feature a few old fashioned qualities that might cause the modern reader to scoff, just a little, but overall, this is a pretty solid 'friends to lovers' romance.
But, of course, this is a Manga, so the real main feature is the artwork. As always, the artwork is terrific, and really does make the story feel unique and even refreshes a book written way back in 1998.
I do enjoy reading older books once in a while and reading them in this format puts a fresh spin on reading retro-romance novels, making it seem like an all new experience.
This one was especially fun because I'm such a big fan of this author. 😊
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