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Dark Swan Comic #1-4
Dark Swan: Storm Born Volume 1
Eugenie Markham never asked for any of this. Until now, she's been content with her job as a freelance shaman, battling and banishing Otherworldly creatures. When a prophecy suddenly makes her the Otherworld's most popular bachelorette, Eugenie finds herself fighting off unwanted supernatural suitors, as well as the evils that begin emerging from her past...
120 pages, Graphic Novel Trade Hardcover
First published January 1, 2011
5 people are currently reading
1698 people want to read
About the author
Richelle Mead
106 books69.4k followersScorpio Richelle Mead is a New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of urban fantasy books for both adults and teens. Originally from Michigan, Richelle now lives in Seattle, Washington where she works on her three series full-time: Georgina Kincaid, Dark Swan, and Vampire Academy.
A life-long reader, Richelle has always loved mythology and folklore. When she can actually tear herself away from books (either reading or writing them), she enjoys bad reality TV, traveling, trying interesting cocktails, and shopping for dresses. She's a self-professed coffee addict and has a passion for all things wacky and humorous.
A life-long reader, Richelle has always loved mythology and folklore. When she can actually tear herself away from books (either reading or writing them), she enjoys bad reality TV, traveling, trying interesting cocktails, and shopping for dresses. She's a self-professed coffee addict and has a passion for all things wacky and humorous.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 129 reviews
August 20, 2017
Full Review on The Blog
www.carolineandrus.com/blog
I'm a huge Richelle Mead fan, but I don't like graphic novels. Reading this was tough. I could see Richelle in the words, but... like all comics & graphic novels, it was just so lacking in story!
I need more words than graphic novels offer!
The art was decent though. Not too overstimulating for me, which is a problem I have with graphic novels and comics - sensory overload.
www.carolineandrus.com/blog
I'm a huge Richelle Mead fan, but I don't like graphic novels. Reading this was tough. I could see Richelle in the words, but... like all comics & graphic novels, it was just so lacking in story!
I need more words than graphic novels offer!
The art was decent though. Not too overstimulating for me, which is a problem I have with graphic novels and comics - sensory overload.
Read
May 22, 2011The Graphic Novel is still in progress, but the pages I've seen so far are amazing! Richelle Mead is very excited about this project and is very pleased with the artwork as well.
May 16, 2011
First of all a massive thank you to Sea Lion Books who contacted me asking if I would like to review this comic!
I had previously heard about the comics and was a bit upset that most likely they would only be sold in the US, making it harder for me to get a hold off. I love Richelle Mead's writing, and have previously read the first three books in the Dark Swan series, so I was super excited to get a chance to read this comic!
First of all the artwork in this comic is amazing, it's as if all the small details from the books have come to life. As a fan of the book series it is important to me that all these small details are correct and that the comic sticks as close as possible to the original novel, which it has! I especially loved seeing Eugenie's tattoos and the intricate details of her wand, but mostly loved getting to see Kiyo, he is exactly as I had imagined him to be!
I loved how this part of the original book has been condensed down into comic form without leaving out any of the important parts in the story. If the reader had not read the Storm Born novel and picked up the comic, they would still know exactly what is going on!
Even though I know the story and know what is going to happen next, the comic ending has left me dying for more! I cannot wait to read the next instalment of the comic series!
I had previously heard about the comics and was a bit upset that most likely they would only be sold in the US, making it harder for me to get a hold off. I love Richelle Mead's writing, and have previously read the first three books in the Dark Swan series, so I was super excited to get a chance to read this comic!
First of all the artwork in this comic is amazing, it's as if all the small details from the books have come to life. As a fan of the book series it is important to me that all these small details are correct and that the comic sticks as close as possible to the original novel, which it has! I especially loved seeing Eugenie's tattoos and the intricate details of her wand, but mostly loved getting to see Kiyo, he is exactly as I had imagined him to be!
I loved how this part of the original book has been condensed down into comic form without leaving out any of the important parts in the story. If the reader had not read the Storm Born novel and picked up the comic, they would still know exactly what is going on!
Even though I know the story and know what is going to happen next, the comic ending has left me dying for more! I cannot wait to read the next instalment of the comic series!
June 20, 2011
This is the first time I have heard of the Dark Swan series, and I am extremely interested in continuing the series. The artwork in this book is bright, colorful, and engaging.
Eugenie has the power to vanquish the dark and evil beings back to the places they belong. She has learned from the best - her father. Although he is now retired, he is still both a great resource for her as well as a source of strength.
A young girl has been taken by the gentry, now she must decide if the risk to rescue this child is worth it.
There were only a few flaws that I noticed in the text that were a bit confusing, but other than that, it was superb. I have not read the series before, but I think a few of the bigger scenes came out a bit flat. I can tell these are huge, exciting scenes, but one of them seemed to just fall a bit short.
The characters are interesting, hot, mysterious and talented. As a short section of the book, I had to immediately start the 2nd one...It is just as amazing as the first. I am anxiously waiting to finish this graphic adaptation!! (and I must also locate these books.)
Eugenie has the power to vanquish the dark and evil beings back to the places they belong. She has learned from the best - her father. Although he is now retired, he is still both a great resource for her as well as a source of strength.
A young girl has been taken by the gentry, now she must decide if the risk to rescue this child is worth it.
There were only a few flaws that I noticed in the text that were a bit confusing, but other than that, it was superb. I have not read the series before, but I think a few of the bigger scenes came out a bit flat. I can tell these are huge, exciting scenes, but one of them seemed to just fall a bit short.
The characters are interesting, hot, mysterious and talented. As a short section of the book, I had to immediately start the 2nd one...It is just as amazing as the first. I am anxiously waiting to finish this graphic adaptation!! (and I must also locate these books.)
May 28, 2011
The Dark Swan. Storm Born, issue #1, an adult comic.
Written by Richelle Mead and Grant Alter.
Art by Dave Hamann
Disclosure: I’ve received this arc version from the the Sea Lion Books Publishing House with a review request.
This is the first comic issue, out of total of four. First half of the Graphic Novel is scheduled for a release in September 2011, followed by the next four comic issues. Second half of the Graphic Novel will be published after that, with another subsequent set of four comic issues.
Synopsis:
Eugenie Markham never asked for any of this. Until now, she’s been content with her job as a freelance shaman, battling and banishing Otherworldly creatures.
When a prophecy suddenly makes her the Otherworld’s most popular bachelorette, Eugenie finds herself fighting off unwanted supernatural suitors, as well as the evils that begin emerging from her past…
My take on this comic issue:
The protagonist, Eugenie Markham, is a strong, self-assured, modern young woman, whose job is to battle various supernaturals and send them back to “the other world”. The story starts with Eugenie coaxing a nasty, bulky-looking Keres, an ancient death spirit, out of her client’s snicker. Yep, it’s not a genie-in-a-bottle, but the Keres-in-a-Nike-shoe story. After the initial exchange of some powerful blows, the creature becomes to think he’s got a chance with the girl, and makes her an indecent proposal. This only offends Eugenie and sends her into a serious frenzy. Silver bullets in her gun do enough damage to the spirit to let the girl carve the death symbol on his chest and send him to the Lands of Death.
Next, Eugenie meets up with another client, a young man who tries to find his thirteen-year-old sister, Jasmine, abducted by the fairies over a year earlier. After exploring various ways to get the teenager back, the man seems to think Eugenie is the only one who can help. Eugenie feels suspicious and decides to analyze the situation and discuss it with her stepfather, Roland, before she accepts the assignment. Roland doesn’t seem to be very helpful and Eugenie’s temper flares once again.
Eugenie’s roommate, Tim, a super-hot and a super-broke guy, always surrounded by the willing females, tries to convince her to go out and have some fun, for a change. She’s apprehensive, but right after Tim leaves with three ladies in tow, Eugenie decides to check out one of the bars in the area. There she meets (brace yourself, ladies), even better-looking than Tim, Kiyo, and the evening ends sizzling-hot in his apartment. I must warn you, the illustrator did an impressive job with those bed scenes. The only weird part is when Kiyo scratches Eugenie’s back in the moment of passion – what confused me was not the fact he did that, but the level of damage he posed with just his human (well, maybe not – we’ll see in the next issues if that’s so) nails.
Everything goes back to, more or less, normal until a nasty freeze-monster finds his way to Kiyo’s apartment… but for the rest of the story we must wait until the release of the second issue.
A very entertaining and fun comic from the author of Vampire Academy. Enjoy!
Written by Richelle Mead and Grant Alter.
Art by Dave Hamann
Disclosure: I’ve received this arc version from the the Sea Lion Books Publishing House with a review request.
This is the first comic issue, out of total of four. First half of the Graphic Novel is scheduled for a release in September 2011, followed by the next four comic issues. Second half of the Graphic Novel will be published after that, with another subsequent set of four comic issues.
Synopsis:
Eugenie Markham never asked for any of this. Until now, she’s been content with her job as a freelance shaman, battling and banishing Otherworldly creatures.
When a prophecy suddenly makes her the Otherworld’s most popular bachelorette, Eugenie finds herself fighting off unwanted supernatural suitors, as well as the evils that begin emerging from her past…
My take on this comic issue:
The protagonist, Eugenie Markham, is a strong, self-assured, modern young woman, whose job is to battle various supernaturals and send them back to “the other world”. The story starts with Eugenie coaxing a nasty, bulky-looking Keres, an ancient death spirit, out of her client’s snicker. Yep, it’s not a genie-in-a-bottle, but the Keres-in-a-Nike-shoe story. After the initial exchange of some powerful blows, the creature becomes to think he’s got a chance with the girl, and makes her an indecent proposal. This only offends Eugenie and sends her into a serious frenzy. Silver bullets in her gun do enough damage to the spirit to let the girl carve the death symbol on his chest and send him to the Lands of Death.
Next, Eugenie meets up with another client, a young man who tries to find his thirteen-year-old sister, Jasmine, abducted by the fairies over a year earlier. After exploring various ways to get the teenager back, the man seems to think Eugenie is the only one who can help. Eugenie feels suspicious and decides to analyze the situation and discuss it with her stepfather, Roland, before she accepts the assignment. Roland doesn’t seem to be very helpful and Eugenie’s temper flares once again.
Eugenie’s roommate, Tim, a super-hot and a super-broke guy, always surrounded by the willing females, tries to convince her to go out and have some fun, for a change. She’s apprehensive, but right after Tim leaves with three ladies in tow, Eugenie decides to check out one of the bars in the area. There she meets (brace yourself, ladies), even better-looking than Tim, Kiyo, and the evening ends sizzling-hot in his apartment. I must warn you, the illustrator did an impressive job with those bed scenes. The only weird part is when Kiyo scratches Eugenie’s back in the moment of passion – what confused me was not the fact he did that, but the level of damage he posed with just his human (well, maybe not – we’ll see in the next issues if that’s so) nails.
Everything goes back to, more or less, normal until a nasty freeze-monster finds his way to Kiyo’s apartment… but for the rest of the story we must wait until the release of the second issue.
A very entertaining and fun comic from the author of Vampire Academy. Enjoy!
May 21, 2011
Absolutely Fun & Great Graphic Comic Beginning!
I love the graphic concept matching the story; the graphics bright and colorful backgrounds bring the story to life and only enhanced my imaginations visions. Even though this is just the first issue of the four issues for half of the book, it was the perfect teaser to hook me into the story line. I wanted more and can't wait to pick up the next issue. The story line grabbed my attention immediately and the characters were very humorous. I look forward to learning more about each character as the issues come out.
I love the graphic concept matching the story; the graphics bright and colorful backgrounds bring the story to life and only enhanced my imaginations visions. Even though this is just the first issue of the four issues for half of the book, it was the perfect teaser to hook me into the story line. I wanted more and can't wait to pick up the next issue. The story line grabbed my attention immediately and the characters were very humorous. I look forward to learning more about each character as the issues come out.
September 13, 2011
originally posted here : http://fancy-reads.blogspot.com/2011/...
I like/love/adore comics. They can make us, the readers, picture easier our favourite characters, and if we get to talk about Dark Swan main characters - then you hit a good spot.
We can see on the cover the famous shaman "Odile" Dark Swan - Eugenie Markham. I'm not sure who published this comic, who draw and colored it, but i can simply say it's amazing.
The characters from this book series aren't that easy to draw. Eugenie has like a dozen of tattoos, everyone trickier than the other, and an interesting appearance - note the hair in each scene, her face's expression, lights and shades on her hair and eyes with that not-so-normal indigo colour, her clothes and maybe the most important things - her weapons. Then, Kiyo, who's face and mood shifts even quicker than the weather and let's remember that he's the hottie-male from the series. Then Dorian - the gentry king. Then Dorian's Court and servants. The gentry beings - who are as various as the shoes from a shopaholic woman. If you were the artist to draw all of this, i wouldn't even wonder how it would be in you place because this task is not difficult, but more of a killer one.
Still, the ones who bought the copyrights did an awesome job.
The script is cool. If you haven't read the original book serie, it's ok. You will understand what's happening. At least i haven't read the book series before, but the comics convinced me after reading them.
And the drawing is simply perfect. I have no objections to that.
As a matter of fact, i preffer to show you some picture instead of commenting something i consider perfect.
Eugenie Markham
-profile according to Goodreads.com
Age: 26
Hair: long, cinnamon
Eyes: violet
Height: 5' 8”
Profession: Shaman-for-hire
Kiyotaka Marquez
-profile according to Goodreads.com
Hair: black, "not quite to his chin"
Eyes: large, dark
Skin: golden-tanned
Height & Build: "tall and broad-shouldered, nicely muscled"
Heritage: born to Japanese mother and Latino father
Profession: Veterinarian
King Dorian along with a part of his Court :
All i can say about these two numbers of the comic is that i absolutely adore them and that i recommend them to everybody even if you read the series or not. They are awesome and i can hardly wait for the rest.
So, my grade will be just obvious : 10 out of 10!
I like/love/adore comics. They can make us, the readers, picture easier our favourite characters, and if we get to talk about Dark Swan main characters - then you hit a good spot.
We can see on the cover the famous shaman "Odile" Dark Swan - Eugenie Markham. I'm not sure who published this comic, who draw and colored it, but i can simply say it's amazing.
The characters from this book series aren't that easy to draw. Eugenie has like a dozen of tattoos, everyone trickier than the other, and an interesting appearance - note the hair in each scene, her face's expression, lights and shades on her hair and eyes with that not-so-normal indigo colour, her clothes and maybe the most important things - her weapons. Then, Kiyo, who's face and mood shifts even quicker than the weather and let's remember that he's the hottie-male from the series. Then Dorian - the gentry king. Then Dorian's Court and servants. The gentry beings - who are as various as the shoes from a shopaholic woman. If you were the artist to draw all of this, i wouldn't even wonder how it would be in you place because this task is not difficult, but more of a killer one.
Still, the ones who bought the copyrights did an awesome job.
The script is cool. If you haven't read the original book serie, it's ok. You will understand what's happening. At least i haven't read the book series before, but the comics convinced me after reading them.
And the drawing is simply perfect. I have no objections to that.
As a matter of fact, i preffer to show you some picture instead of commenting something i consider perfect.
Eugenie Markham
-profile according to Goodreads.com
Age: 26
Hair: long, cinnamon
Eyes: violet
Height: 5' 8”
Profession: Shaman-for-hire
Kiyotaka Marquez
-profile according to Goodreads.com
Hair: black, "not quite to his chin"
Eyes: large, dark
Skin: golden-tanned
Height & Build: "tall and broad-shouldered, nicely muscled"
Heritage: born to Japanese mother and Latino father
Profession: Veterinarian
King Dorian along with a part of his Court :
All i can say about these two numbers of the comic is that i absolutely adore them and that i recommend them to everybody even if you read the series or not. They are awesome and i can hardly wait for the rest.
So, my grade will be just obvious : 10 out of 10!
May 23, 2011
The ARC was provided by the publishers Sea Lion Books. Thank-you very much for requesting a review.
I have to say I have not read much comic books (in fact I think this is my second one) and after my experience with the first one I read I was worried that I would not enjoy the very little amount of pages I get with one issue. With graphic novels and manga you get at least 100 pages. I was worried that the story would feel rushed or lacking development but I am relieved to say that that never happened here.
Dark Swan starts us off with our protagonist in the middle of exorcising a death spirit from a shoe and although she gets tossed around a bit our heroine gets the job done with the calm and ease of a person who has done this sort of thing for awhile. And right before this job is even done Eugenie has another job offer, something for more dangerous than banishing a dark looming Keres. A job that would require her to cross into the Otherworld physically to rescue a kidnapped girl from faeries or as the tricky folk prefers to be called - Gentry.
I haven’t read the Storm Born novels yet which wasn’t a problem at all because there didn’t feel like there was anything important missing that I needed to know, the pacing was perfect and I enjoyed the casual revelations of Eugenie’s life. She enjoys puzzles in her downtime, she has a roommate who gets himself laid with faux Native American poetry and she isn’t the only shaman in the family.
Eugenie’s also not the cold, calculating person she pretends to be. She may be able to kick ass and say she isn’t going to risk getting herself killed by saving a girl she’s never met but that doesn’t stop her from mulling it over and seriously consider the idea of potentially falling into what looks like a trap.
The art is also something I really enjoyed, facial expression and emotion were portrayed very well and objects (like Eugenie’s tattoos) were detailed enough to show that the original novel was given proper attention without distracting the reader from the story itself.
A great start to the story, if you enjoy your heroines tough but still feminine and your stories with magic and action then pick up Dark Swan on Wednesday when it comes out. We can all then whine over the cliffhanger together.
I have to say I have not read much comic books (in fact I think this is my second one) and after my experience with the first one I read I was worried that I would not enjoy the very little amount of pages I get with one issue. With graphic novels and manga you get at least 100 pages. I was worried that the story would feel rushed or lacking development but I am relieved to say that that never happened here.
Dark Swan starts us off with our protagonist in the middle of exorcising a death spirit from a shoe and although she gets tossed around a bit our heroine gets the job done with the calm and ease of a person who has done this sort of thing for awhile. And right before this job is even done Eugenie has another job offer, something for more dangerous than banishing a dark looming Keres. A job that would require her to cross into the Otherworld physically to rescue a kidnapped girl from faeries or as the tricky folk prefers to be called - Gentry.
I haven’t read the Storm Born novels yet which wasn’t a problem at all because there didn’t feel like there was anything important missing that I needed to know, the pacing was perfect and I enjoyed the casual revelations of Eugenie’s life. She enjoys puzzles in her downtime, she has a roommate who gets himself laid with faux Native American poetry and she isn’t the only shaman in the family.
Eugenie’s also not the cold, calculating person she pretends to be. She may be able to kick ass and say she isn’t going to risk getting herself killed by saving a girl she’s never met but that doesn’t stop her from mulling it over and seriously consider the idea of potentially falling into what looks like a trap.
The art is also something I really enjoyed, facial expression and emotion were portrayed very well and objects (like Eugenie’s tattoos) were detailed enough to show that the original novel was given proper attention without distracting the reader from the story itself.
A great start to the story, if you enjoy your heroines tough but still feminine and your stories with magic and action then pick up Dark Swan on Wednesday when it comes out. We can all then whine over the cliffhanger together.
February 1, 2012
‘Dark Swan’ is the new graphic novel serial from Sea Lion Books, based on the series by urban fantasy author Richelle Mead.
I was lucky enough to get the chance to review Richelle Mead's DARK SWAN only days after reading the print book. I’ll admit, I didn’t expect to enjoy it as much as I did. I’ve always considered graphic novels to be only a step above a comic book ( sorry, hanging my head shamefully). I never realized that they could add so much to a story.
Really,though, I want the whole story, every single paragraph, word, letter and punctuation mark. What reader doesn’t? Seriously, I never would have picked this up on my own. Well, slap me stupid! Boy was I in for a surprise. While I already had a mental picture of most of the characters (what reader doesn’t) in my head. I didn’t find a character at all in the GN that felt out of sync. The colors are bright and distinct while the characters were amazingly active for pictures. I’ve always enjoyed Mead’s vivid action scenes and thought this series would make an excellent movie. Artist Dave Hamann brought these scenes alive with brilliant colors.
I’ve got to admit that I’m not real sure how much I would have enjoyed the GN if I hadn’t just read the book but the storyline was pretty much intact or will be with the addition of the next volume. While I think these graphic novels are a wonderful addition to the series, I just can’t imagine them replacing the books. It would be a bit like seeing all the Harry Potter movies without cracking a book, and yeah, I know that are some people that do just that (shaking my head in disbelief).
While I’m more of a paranormal romance reader than an urban fantasy reader, this series manages to combine the romance with the kick-ass, take no prisoners makeup of the main character. I love the snarky mouth on Eugenie and the way she interacts with Kiyo, a very sexy shapeshifter, and Dorian, the Fairy King. Her three sidekicks also added greatly to the snarky humor in the book. I also greatly enjoyed the fact that I did not pick up on who the bad guy was till it was right in front of me. That alone adds an extra star to my review.
Luckily, I have the rest of the series in my TBR pile so bring it on guys!
I was lucky enough to get the chance to review Richelle Mead's DARK SWAN only days after reading the print book. I’ll admit, I didn’t expect to enjoy it as much as I did. I’ve always considered graphic novels to be only a step above a comic book ( sorry, hanging my head shamefully). I never realized that they could add so much to a story.
Really,though, I want the whole story, every single paragraph, word, letter and punctuation mark. What reader doesn’t? Seriously, I never would have picked this up on my own. Well, slap me stupid! Boy was I in for a surprise. While I already had a mental picture of most of the characters (what reader doesn’t) in my head. I didn’t find a character at all in the GN that felt out of sync. The colors are bright and distinct while the characters were amazingly active for pictures. I’ve always enjoyed Mead’s vivid action scenes and thought this series would make an excellent movie. Artist Dave Hamann brought these scenes alive with brilliant colors.
I’ve got to admit that I’m not real sure how much I would have enjoyed the GN if I hadn’t just read the book but the storyline was pretty much intact or will be with the addition of the next volume. While I think these graphic novels are a wonderful addition to the series, I just can’t imagine them replacing the books. It would be a bit like seeing all the Harry Potter movies without cracking a book, and yeah, I know that are some people that do just that (shaking my head in disbelief).
While I’m more of a paranormal romance reader than an urban fantasy reader, this series manages to combine the romance with the kick-ass, take no prisoners makeup of the main character. I love the snarky mouth on Eugenie and the way she interacts with Kiyo, a very sexy shapeshifter, and Dorian, the Fairy King. Her three sidekicks also added greatly to the snarky humor in the book. I also greatly enjoyed the fact that I did not pick up on who the bad guy was till it was right in front of me. That alone adds an extra star to my review.
Luckily, I have the rest of the series in my TBR pile so bring it on guys!
September 21, 2014
Original Review Date (posted on www.paperbackswap.com): 5/31/2011
For those who don’t know about Eugenie Markham here is a brief summary of the series (more information can be found on www.Richelle Mead.com): Eugenie Markham never asked for any of this. Until now, she's been content with her job as a freelance shaman, battling and banishing Otherworldly creatures. When a prophecy suddenly makes her the Otherworld's most popular bachelorette, Eugenie finds herself fighting off unwanted supernatural suitors, as well as the evils that begin emerging from her past...
SIDE NOTE: I am an avid paranormal romance and urban fantasy fanatic, but one thing is for sure. I WAS partial to Vampires and Werewolves, but I think that I am partial because I know the mythology and the lore of those two species’. BUT ALL THINGS CHANGED WHEN I READ THE DARK SWAN SERIES ABOUT EUGENIE MARKHAM. I didn’t only fall in love with the characters, but I fell in love with the whole world. I fell in love with every aspect that Richelle Mead created in the Storm Born Series! I even researched more books on Fae and Gentry once I finished Iron Crown, even though I felt like I was cheating on Eugenie!!!
Now onto the review for the comic book: No words can express the detail and the imaginary that was brought to life through the comic. Honestly it was just as good as if I was watching a movie. It's always great to read a book and the pages come alive in your mind, but to see the work in a comic and it jump out at you is utter magic. I half expected that the comic book wouldn’t follow the story line of the novel, but it did. AND I loved it! The best thing about it was that I actually had a face to imagine while I finished reading Iron Crown. This is a must! Even if you are not a comic book fan, you should get it. Do what I did, purchase it and hang it up next to your bookshelf! ENJOY the fantasy world with your eyes and not just your mind!!!
For those who don’t know about Eugenie Markham here is a brief summary of the series (more information can be found on www.Richelle Mead.com): Eugenie Markham never asked for any of this. Until now, she's been content with her job as a freelance shaman, battling and banishing Otherworldly creatures. When a prophecy suddenly makes her the Otherworld's most popular bachelorette, Eugenie finds herself fighting off unwanted supernatural suitors, as well as the evils that begin emerging from her past...
SIDE NOTE: I am an avid paranormal romance and urban fantasy fanatic, but one thing is for sure. I WAS partial to Vampires and Werewolves, but I think that I am partial because I know the mythology and the lore of those two species’. BUT ALL THINGS CHANGED WHEN I READ THE DARK SWAN SERIES ABOUT EUGENIE MARKHAM. I didn’t only fall in love with the characters, but I fell in love with the whole world. I fell in love with every aspect that Richelle Mead created in the Storm Born Series! I even researched more books on Fae and Gentry once I finished Iron Crown, even though I felt like I was cheating on Eugenie!!!
Now onto the review for the comic book: No words can express the detail and the imaginary that was brought to life through the comic. Honestly it was just as good as if I was watching a movie. It's always great to read a book and the pages come alive in your mind, but to see the work in a comic and it jump out at you is utter magic. I half expected that the comic book wouldn’t follow the story line of the novel, but it did. AND I loved it! The best thing about it was that I actually had a face to imagine while I finished reading Iron Crown. This is a must! Even if you are not a comic book fan, you should get it. Do what I did, purchase it and hang it up next to your bookshelf! ENJOY the fantasy world with your eyes and not just your mind!!!
January 28, 2012
I read the book and loved it and reading the comic/graphic novel just adds that little bit of extra fun. The Dark Swan first volume really exceeded my expectations; I wasn’t sure if it would do the book justice or be a poor portrayal of a book I loved. It’s great seeing the characters on pages in illustrated form, it’s just brilliant. Each character was captures so perfectly and I loved seeing Eugenie’s attitude leap off the page, seeing her kick-ass in comic form was something I really enjoyed. Seeing Kiyo and Eugenie’s first encounter was great, exactly how I pictured it, though the following steamy loving faces were a little odd to me but that’s just me being nitpicky and thinking with the smutty side of my brain. The Gentry world was so beautifully done however Dorian in my mind was a little more masculine looking in comparison to the comic illustration but he was still done fairly well in this.
If you are a real Dark Swan fan then I think you would love this and even if you haven't read the books it would still be a great read. A prime example of how a book can be done well translated into comic form. Any issues I found were very minor and mostly due to my own imagining of certain things, nothing to do with the comic itself. I need to get my hands on a hard copy because this something I need to have to go with my Dark Swan books and add to my collection. Can’t wait to see how the rest of the volumes turn out, if they end up being anything like this, I will be one happy reader.
*Submitted for review from publisher*
If you are a real Dark Swan fan then I think you would love this and even if you haven't read the books it would still be a great read. A prime example of how a book can be done well translated into comic form. Any issues I found were very minor and mostly due to my own imagining of certain things, nothing to do with the comic itself. I need to get my hands on a hard copy because this something I need to have to go with my Dark Swan books and add to my collection. Can’t wait to see how the rest of the volumes turn out, if they end up being anything like this, I will be one happy reader.
*Submitted for review from publisher*
September 22, 2011
Those of you already fans of Eugenie – aka Odile – probably don’t need my prompting to pick up this graphic novel. Those who haven’t yet met her – well, you should! Eugenie is tough, intelligent, funny and sexy and the art in this book is amazing! When I finished it, I just wanted more – fast-paced and compelling, this is a story for anyone who likes paranormal suspense and action; although I should warn that this book is definitely at least PG-13.
She is a shaman – she spends her days helping out people who are being terrorized by spirits, which she sends back to their own realm. In Storm Born, she is faced with the unwanted affections of otherworldly creatures – she doesn’t know why.
This book introduces us to her character and shows us what a day in her life is like – albeit not an especially typical day. When it opens, she is busily exorcising a shoe. That’s right – a shoe! Later she is contacted by a young man who wants her to cross to the Otherworld and rescue his sister from the Gentry (another word for fairies, or the Sidhe). There’s not much more I can tell you about the story without spoiling it – although I need to point out that this is not a self-contained story, but part of a greater whole.
Definitely pick this up – it’s a great story!
She is a shaman – she spends her days helping out people who are being terrorized by spirits, which she sends back to their own realm. In Storm Born, she is faced with the unwanted affections of otherworldly creatures – she doesn’t know why.
This book introduces us to her character and shows us what a day in her life is like – albeit not an especially typical day. When it opens, she is busily exorcising a shoe. That’s right – a shoe! Later she is contacted by a young man who wants her to cross to the Otherworld and rescue his sister from the Gentry (another word for fairies, or the Sidhe). There’s not much more I can tell you about the story without spoiling it – although I need to point out that this is not a self-contained story, but part of a greater whole.
Definitely pick this up – it’s a great story!
June 16, 2013
I really enjoyed this! A nice blend of fantasy and supernatural. Once again, Richelle Mead gives us an awesome kick-butt female heroine!
Eugenie is very well portrayed. Reasonably confident, but not over the top. Caring and practical. It is very easy to like her. The pace seems well done. Her 'minions' are likeable in their own way too.
Eugenie is given a request that she doesn't really want to take on. Travel to the Otherworld to rescue a man's sister. Such travel is dangerous but she feels for the guy so she takes on the assignment. However, before she goes she has some unique encounters first as demons, fairies and the like start calling her by name. How did she become known to them. So now it is a two-part job. Save the girl and learn why the Otherworld wants her.
This story seems well paced for a graphic novel. A nice blend of action, romance and fantasy. Very solid story. My only complaint is the drawing of the faces seems too harsh in a lot of shots. Just my opinion though. Otherwise the artwork is nicely done. Good blend of coloring and shading.
I made one grave mistake in my reading of this. I read this BEFORE the book. So now I have to backtrack and read the novel. Wish me luck!
Eugenie is very well portrayed. Reasonably confident, but not over the top. Caring and practical. It is very easy to like her. The pace seems well done. Her 'minions' are likeable in their own way too.
Eugenie is given a request that she doesn't really want to take on. Travel to the Otherworld to rescue a man's sister. Such travel is dangerous but she feels for the guy so she takes on the assignment. However, before she goes she has some unique encounters first as demons, fairies and the like start calling her by name. How did she become known to them. So now it is a two-part job. Save the girl and learn why the Otherworld wants her.
This story seems well paced for a graphic novel. A nice blend of action, romance and fantasy. Very solid story. My only complaint is the drawing of the faces seems too harsh in a lot of shots. Just my opinion though. Otherwise the artwork is nicely done. Good blend of coloring and shading.
I made one grave mistake in my reading of this. I read this BEFORE the book. So now I have to backtrack and read the novel. Wish me luck!
September 15, 2011
(Received copy for review by the wonderful Sea Lion Books. Thank you so much!)
Contains some adult-language, violence, and sexual-content. To some that's a "no-no" but to me, that's a "yes-yes" :P
Fun, sexy, thrilling, humorous, and extremely entertaining!
Storm Born, Issue #1 follows Eugenie Markham who's pretty much happy with her job of banishing otherworldly beings back to "the lands of death." However, when she is given a job offer, one that even though is so dangerous, she still can't help but feel the need to do, Eugenie is put in a tough spot of deciding whether or not this job should be done, and exactly how much she would be putting at stake if she accepts.
I loved every inch and every single panel of this issue (Issue #1), from the serious action packed scenes, to the humorous dialogue, and the steamy little bits. I've never heard of this series before—until now,that is, and am glad I was able to review this! The illustrations are simply magnificent, and I cannot wait to move on to the second one! Heck Yes!!
Originally posted at RJ Does Books
Contains some adult-language, violence, and sexual-content. To some that's a "no-no" but to me, that's a "yes-yes" :P
Fun, sexy, thrilling, humorous, and extremely entertaining!
Storm Born, Issue #1 follows Eugenie Markham who's pretty much happy with her job of banishing otherworldly beings back to "the lands of death." However, when she is given a job offer, one that even though is so dangerous, she still can't help but feel the need to do, Eugenie is put in a tough spot of deciding whether or not this job should be done, and exactly how much she would be putting at stake if she accepts.
I loved every inch and every single panel of this issue (Issue #1), from the serious action packed scenes, to the humorous dialogue, and the steamy little bits. I've never heard of this series before—until now,that is, and am glad I was able to review this! The illustrations are simply magnificent, and I cannot wait to move on to the second one! Heck Yes!!
Originally posted at RJ Does Books
September 6, 2011
Previously Published on my blog: Welcome to Larissa's Bookish Life
*NO Spoilers
I am a HUGE Richelle Mead fan and her Dark Swan series is right up there as one of my favorites EVER! When I heard they were becoming comics I was super excited and when the pub contacted me to review them I freaked LOL.
First of all I have to say that this trend of turning Urban Fantasy series into comics or Graphic novels is awesome! Those tend to be very visual stories and make for amazing graphs.
Storm Born is definitely an great example of that and the images are amazingly done and the the story is very well constructed to both include enough backstory and action to make you not want to put it down.
I was super psyched about seeing Genie and Kyo’s first encounter and was NOT disappointed! Urban Fantasy comics with a side of sexy? YES please!
I thoroughly believe that both Dark Swan fans and newcomers will LOVE these and I totally recommend them! I cannot wait for the next volumes!
*NO Spoilers
I am a HUGE Richelle Mead fan and her Dark Swan series is right up there as one of my favorites EVER! When I heard they were becoming comics I was super excited and when the pub contacted me to review them I freaked LOL.
First of all I have to say that this trend of turning Urban Fantasy series into comics or Graphic novels is awesome! Those tend to be very visual stories and make for amazing graphs.
Storm Born is definitely an great example of that and the images are amazingly done and the the story is very well constructed to both include enough backstory and action to make you not want to put it down.
I was super psyched about seeing Genie and Kyo’s first encounter and was NOT disappointed! Urban Fantasy comics with a side of sexy? YES please!
I thoroughly believe that both Dark Swan fans and newcomers will LOVE these and I totally recommend them! I cannot wait for the next volumes!
July 28, 2011
If you're a fan of Richelle Mead (which is a silly statement to make since you ALL have to be a fan of hers) or if you're simply looking for a great graphic novel to read, then be sure to pick up a copy of this first issue since it's a very cool new addition to the graphic novel book department since it'll become one of your favourites!
Full review: http://talesoftheinnerbookfanatic.blo...
Full review: http://talesoftheinnerbookfanatic.blo...
January 4, 2016
The lead Eugenie is pretty badass straight from the beginning there’s a lot of intense action going on til the very end. The writing style,folklore and illustrations are brilliant it immediately caught my attention page after page I learned and was greatly amazed with all the characters.Definitely PG13.
July 12, 2011
Now this my friends was a graphic novel.... yeah. Matched the book, great illustrations, very well broken up. I didn't think it would work as well because there is so much going on in this series, but they did a wonderful job with this one. I know what is going to happen, but I have to read more. I'm almost tempted to pick up the series again!
September 9, 2015
First of all, I've never read the book version of this comic. Nonetheless, it as intriguing so I decided to give it a chance. I was amazed by the awesome illustrations & the story-line was definitely entertaining from the beginning. I only wish it had been longer. But it was still great, especially for those who read the book & does who haven't will be definitely hooked.
July 2, 2015
I love Eugenie!
June 12, 2011
very smexy...great art and true to the book.. a very fun read!
May 21, 2017
2.5 stars rated up for concept
Let me first say that the concept behind this book wasn't actually that great. I'm rating this comic up for it because it isn't very often I come across books like this, that are suggestive and kind of dirty without being sex heavy or smutty. Every male monster wants to screw and knock up the protagonist of this book. It made me curious to see what would happen, as awful as that is. I also liked the art style and the colors.
Otherwise, she was the 'chosen one', the narration style was very weird (taking phrases from the novel I'm assuming, but weird ones that should have been phrased less awkwardly), I have no idea why this is a teen book given the content, character development was shallow, and I saw all of the plot twists coming a mile away. Ever since Twilight came out, I haven't experienced a fantasy book this textbook.
Let me first say that the concept behind this book wasn't actually that great. I'm rating this comic up for it because it isn't very often I come across books like this, that are suggestive and kind of dirty without being sex heavy or smutty. Every male monster wants to screw and knock up the protagonist of this book. It made me curious to see what would happen, as awful as that is. I also liked the art style and the colors.
Otherwise, she was the 'chosen one', the narration style was very weird (taking phrases from the novel I'm assuming, but weird ones that should have been phrased less awkwardly), I have no idea why this is a teen book given the content, character development was shallow, and I saw all of the plot twists coming a mile away. Ever since Twilight came out, I haven't experienced a fantasy book this textbook.
November 15, 2017
Oh my word. I love faerie and magic and all the stuff. By the 3rd book of this series, I hate Eugenie Markham. She is unable to make a decision without either one of her men. She flops back and forth from Kiyo to Dorian and back again because she can't seem to be strong enough to be Queen. Thinking that if I were raped for months, I really wouldn't be looking to flop into bed with some one because he "saved me". I bought the whole frickin' series, so I hope Eugenie finds her strength and maybe teams up with her sister. Not finished with the series yet, because I am struggling with it. I wish you luck.
June 23, 2011
Title: Storm Born (Dark Swan Issues #1 and #2)
Author: Richelle Mead
Genre: Paranormal
Format: paperback
Publisher: Sea Lion Publishing May 2011
ISBN: 978-0982818640
Eugenie Markham is a freelance shaman. She spends her days battling otherworldly creatures that find their way into the homes of regular people like you and me. She stares down the vile and evil eyes of those wanting to do harm to the innocent. Then she goes home and puts together puzzles. And she does it while wearing silk pajamas.
Really though, puzzles make sense. Wouldn’t you like doing something that you knew for certain that you could fit together? When you spend your days like Eugenie, battling otherworldly creatures who can be a bit unpredictable, doing something that is a sure thing seems like a no-brainer.
As if her day job was high stress enough – suddenly these creatures know her name. Her real name – not the name that she uses as her alias. How could they possibly know her name and why all of a sudden are they all propositioning her?
If something like that was propositioning me, I’d kill them too.
Then, a client approaches her with a dangerous job that pulls at her heartstrings. A young girl has been kidnapped by Gentry (AKA fairies and I ain’t talking about Tinker Bell) and taken to the other world. Eugenie knows taking her body into that world could be dangerous – it could be deadly. Torn between what she should do and what she wants to do, she does what any single, hot female would do: she goes out to a bar to blow off steam. (come on admit it, you do it too)
It is at this bar that she meets Kiyo, a regular joe – a veterinarian. Someone she actually likes. Things go well until they don’t. An elemental appeared in the room she was sharing with Kiyo. Things got surprising when the ‘average joe’ kicked it’s a**, and they sent it packing. Turns out Kiyo might not be who he seems…
Before Eugenie could get any answers Kiyo disappeared and left her with a surprisingly large hole in her heart. But Eugenie is a professional and life must go on.
She has a job to do and people to protect. Watch out otherworldly demons…Eugenie’s heart is breaking and that means she’s taking her man troubles out on you.
I am only just becoming aware of how great the market can be for a Graphic Novel. When Sea Lion Books sent over this novel for me to read I was so excited. I mean this is the work of Richelle Mead. I had no idea that she had gotten into the graphic novel scene.
Thank goodness someone told me.
This was a rockin’ start to what I think is going to be an awesome graphic novel series. There was a ton of action to move the story along and lots of creepy otherworldly beings. And I was the only one who noticed the chompers on those things?? I mean yikes! Those teeth looked like razors…
Anyway, I like the premise of these novels. I like the idea of a tough as nails female who doesn’t need a man to scare away the baddies that creep into her life. But…I also like that maybe she might like to have a man to banish some of that loneliness. Oh, yeah and to maybe rock her world.
This is only the second graphic novel that I have read, but once again I was stuck at how the writer has to impart so much information with so few words. It was done well here and the reader really gets a good sense of the characters and their personalities. While I may not be super experienced with graphic novels, I do know that if you can’t get the reader to connect with the main character then you’re just wasting paper. Good thing Sea Lion books knows what they are doing.
The art work was really great too. I don’t know why and am slightly embarrassed to admit that I never really wanted to read a graphic novel before because I thought something in the story might be lost in between all those pictures. But you know…the pictures added to the story - they imparted what the words did not. It was a little light bulb moment for me. I loved the use of color and the way the scenes moved so seamlessly from one to the next. And, let me just add that I personally liked that Eugenie had red hair. It looks hot. I also like her alias name, Odile. The Dark Swan…it seems to fit her.
Another thing I like about the novel? I like that she has parents who care about her. And I like that they know what she does for a living – with her dad retired from the same line of work. Often times in books like these the parents (if the main character even has any) are kept in the dark without lying. Often times the main character has to lie. I like that in this story she can be who she is.
I would recommend this series of graphic novels to anyone who wants a change of pace from their regular reads. They are quick, fun and have pretty pictures :). I would classify these as being more on the adult side than the young adult. If you have a teen that is just dying to read them I would suggest reading them first as a preview…just to be sure it is something that you approve of.
I am looking forward to the next issue, I can’t wait to see what happens when Eugenie travels into the other world to save the young girl, and I can’t wait to see what happens between Eugenie and her man. This series is a must read!
This review is written by Cambria Hebert
Author: Richelle Mead
Genre: Paranormal
Format: paperback
Publisher: Sea Lion Publishing May 2011
ISBN: 978-0982818640
Eugenie Markham is a freelance shaman. She spends her days battling otherworldly creatures that find their way into the homes of regular people like you and me. She stares down the vile and evil eyes of those wanting to do harm to the innocent. Then she goes home and puts together puzzles. And she does it while wearing silk pajamas.
Really though, puzzles make sense. Wouldn’t you like doing something that you knew for certain that you could fit together? When you spend your days like Eugenie, battling otherworldly creatures who can be a bit unpredictable, doing something that is a sure thing seems like a no-brainer.
As if her day job was high stress enough – suddenly these creatures know her name. Her real name – not the name that she uses as her alias. How could they possibly know her name and why all of a sudden are they all propositioning her?
If something like that was propositioning me, I’d kill them too.
Then, a client approaches her with a dangerous job that pulls at her heartstrings. A young girl has been kidnapped by Gentry (AKA fairies and I ain’t talking about Tinker Bell) and taken to the other world. Eugenie knows taking her body into that world could be dangerous – it could be deadly. Torn between what she should do and what she wants to do, she does what any single, hot female would do: she goes out to a bar to blow off steam. (come on admit it, you do it too)
It is at this bar that she meets Kiyo, a regular joe – a veterinarian. Someone she actually likes. Things go well until they don’t. An elemental appeared in the room she was sharing with Kiyo. Things got surprising when the ‘average joe’ kicked it’s a**, and they sent it packing. Turns out Kiyo might not be who he seems…
Before Eugenie could get any answers Kiyo disappeared and left her with a surprisingly large hole in her heart. But Eugenie is a professional and life must go on.
She has a job to do and people to protect. Watch out otherworldly demons…Eugenie’s heart is breaking and that means she’s taking her man troubles out on you.
I am only just becoming aware of how great the market can be for a Graphic Novel. When Sea Lion Books sent over this novel for me to read I was so excited. I mean this is the work of Richelle Mead. I had no idea that she had gotten into the graphic novel scene.
Thank goodness someone told me.
This was a rockin’ start to what I think is going to be an awesome graphic novel series. There was a ton of action to move the story along and lots of creepy otherworldly beings. And I was the only one who noticed the chompers on those things?? I mean yikes! Those teeth looked like razors…
Anyway, I like the premise of these novels. I like the idea of a tough as nails female who doesn’t need a man to scare away the baddies that creep into her life. But…I also like that maybe she might like to have a man to banish some of that loneliness. Oh, yeah and to maybe rock her world.
This is only the second graphic novel that I have read, but once again I was stuck at how the writer has to impart so much information with so few words. It was done well here and the reader really gets a good sense of the characters and their personalities. While I may not be super experienced with graphic novels, I do know that if you can’t get the reader to connect with the main character then you’re just wasting paper. Good thing Sea Lion books knows what they are doing.
The art work was really great too. I don’t know why and am slightly embarrassed to admit that I never really wanted to read a graphic novel before because I thought something in the story might be lost in between all those pictures. But you know…the pictures added to the story - they imparted what the words did not. It was a little light bulb moment for me. I loved the use of color and the way the scenes moved so seamlessly from one to the next. And, let me just add that I personally liked that Eugenie had red hair. It looks hot. I also like her alias name, Odile. The Dark Swan…it seems to fit her.
Another thing I like about the novel? I like that she has parents who care about her. And I like that they know what she does for a living – with her dad retired from the same line of work. Often times in books like these the parents (if the main character even has any) are kept in the dark without lying. Often times the main character has to lie. I like that in this story she can be who she is.
I would recommend this series of graphic novels to anyone who wants a change of pace from their regular reads. They are quick, fun and have pretty pictures :). I would classify these as being more on the adult side than the young adult. If you have a teen that is just dying to read them I would suggest reading them first as a preview…just to be sure it is something that you approve of.
I am looking forward to the next issue, I can’t wait to see what happens when Eugenie travels into the other world to save the young girl, and I can’t wait to see what happens between Eugenie and her man. This series is a must read!
This review is written by Cambria Hebert
November 6, 2017
I usually only read graphic novels for books that I've loved. I am a big Richelle Mead fan. But for some reason I have not read this series.
The illustrations for this graphic novel were vivid and wonderful.
This graphic novel is much sexier than I was expecting.
The story was very strong and it was easy to follow. I really enjoyed this graphic novel!
August 9, 2021
It was fine. I wasn't super invested in the characters, but it was an easy to pick up story. I haven't read the novel it was adapted from but I get the feeling A LOT was cut out. I don't feel compelled to pick up the books so *shrug*.
February 14, 2021
ENJOYED THIS BOOK
June 5, 2021
Fav series of all time
July 26, 2022
I wish there was more!!
June 18, 2011
Eugenie Markham has spent the majority of her young life sending supernatural creatures back to their natural, magical habitat. Eugenie’s work day consists of the usual banishments and exorcisms, carried out with her trusty wand and with the help of protective, magic-infused tattoos. But something strange is happening to Eugenie and the creatures she banishes . . . her name is being bandied about and dangerous fae spirits are making untoward sexual advances. Something is going on with the Sidhe, and Eugenie is somehow in the middle of it all. . .
‘Dark Swan’ is the new graphic novel serial from Sea Lion Books, based on the series by urban fantasy author Richelle Mead.
I am a big fan of Mead’s ‘Dark Swan’ series, having jumped on the Eugenie bandwagon back in 2007. Mead’s ‘Georgina Kincaid’ series brings the sizzling sex appeal, while her highly popular ‘Vampire Academy’ is a fantastic blend of romance and action. ‘Dark Swan’ is the perfect blend and balance of Mead’s two more popular series. It’s set on a grander scale, wandering between the human world and a fae dimension – complete with Sidhe kingdoms. ‘Dark Swan’ is also the most violent of Mead’s books, often delving into dark abandon and gory sensationalism.
I have always thought it’s somewhat unfair that Eugenie is perhaps the least popular (and lesser known) of all Mead’s work. Adults have ‘Georgina Kincaid’, while ‘Vampire Academy’ is beloved world-wide. Eugenie often gets pushed to the backlist (to the point that publication of third novel ‘Iron Crowned’ was delayed a year because Mead had too much publicity work to do for her ‘Georgina’ and ‘VA’ instalments). So I was thrilled to learn that a graphic novel adaptation was in store for Eugenie . . . and now having read Volume 1 and 2, I am beyond delighted to say that the folks at Sea Lion Books have treated Eugenie Markham and ‘Storm Born’ to the fantastical fanfare it justly deserves!
The first two issues are covering quite a lot of back story, with plenty of scene-setting and character introductions. Those unfamiliar with Mead’s ‘Dark Swan’ books may think the beginning is a slow-go, with lots of Eugenie’s interiority and necessary segue’s introducing her family, roommate and clients. But I really have to applaud scriptwriter Grant Alter – he has done a marvellous job at plotting and laying the foundations for an epic series. Loyal readers of the ‘Dark Swan’ books will know that all of this plotting preparation is necessary – now that we are three-books deep into the series, it becomes apparent that Richelle Mead has had an end-game in mind all along, and if you go back and reread ‘Storm Born’ there’s lots of intricate foreshadowing and build-up. Alter has done a brilliant job of leaving breadcrumbs throughout Volume 1 and 2, writing just enough back story to educate, while also trailing plenty of loose-ends to scintillate.
The artwork is phenomenal! I always heap praise upon Richelle Mead for writing action scenes that pop on the page and read like a movie scene. Artist Dave Hamann had a dually hard and easy task of visualizing Mead’s breathtaking scenes – she writes action very fluidly, but with plenty of precise direction. Hamann’s drawings are a lovely representation of Mead’s story and Alter’s script - vividly beautiful and stunningly complex. He does a brilliant job of bringing freakish fae creatures to popping life on the page, while also perfectly visualizing beloved characters. Eugenie is pitch-perfect, at once ab-tastic and stunning (I loved her tattoos!) while her love-interest, Kiyo, is gorgeously hunky. I especially appreciated Hamann’s artwork when it came to the lush, sexy scenes – this is another important component to the ‘Dark Swan’ series, and if Eugenie and Kiyo’s scenes are any indication, fans are in for a treat when Eugenie gets intimate with a certain fae King.
Volume 1 and 2 of Richelle Mead’s ‘Storm Born’ graphic novel is a visual treat and phenomenal urban fantasy. The novel is the perfect introduction for those unfamiliar with Eugenie, while also being a superb adaptation to delight and excite long-time fans of this darkly fantastical series. I can’t wait for Volume 3, since things are sure to get dangerously interesting when Eugenie literally crosses over to the other side. . .
‘Dark Swan’ is the new graphic novel serial from Sea Lion Books, based on the series by urban fantasy author Richelle Mead.
I am a big fan of Mead’s ‘Dark Swan’ series, having jumped on the Eugenie bandwagon back in 2007. Mead’s ‘Georgina Kincaid’ series brings the sizzling sex appeal, while her highly popular ‘Vampire Academy’ is a fantastic blend of romance and action. ‘Dark Swan’ is the perfect blend and balance of Mead’s two more popular series. It’s set on a grander scale, wandering between the human world and a fae dimension – complete with Sidhe kingdoms. ‘Dark Swan’ is also the most violent of Mead’s books, often delving into dark abandon and gory sensationalism.
I have always thought it’s somewhat unfair that Eugenie is perhaps the least popular (and lesser known) of all Mead’s work. Adults have ‘Georgina Kincaid’, while ‘Vampire Academy’ is beloved world-wide. Eugenie often gets pushed to the backlist (to the point that publication of third novel ‘Iron Crowned’ was delayed a year because Mead had too much publicity work to do for her ‘Georgina’ and ‘VA’ instalments). So I was thrilled to learn that a graphic novel adaptation was in store for Eugenie . . . and now having read Volume 1 and 2, I am beyond delighted to say that the folks at Sea Lion Books have treated Eugenie Markham and ‘Storm Born’ to the fantastical fanfare it justly deserves!
The first two issues are covering quite a lot of back story, with plenty of scene-setting and character introductions. Those unfamiliar with Mead’s ‘Dark Swan’ books may think the beginning is a slow-go, with lots of Eugenie’s interiority and necessary segue’s introducing her family, roommate and clients. But I really have to applaud scriptwriter Grant Alter – he has done a marvellous job at plotting and laying the foundations for an epic series. Loyal readers of the ‘Dark Swan’ books will know that all of this plotting preparation is necessary – now that we are three-books deep into the series, it becomes apparent that Richelle Mead has had an end-game in mind all along, and if you go back and reread ‘Storm Born’ there’s lots of intricate foreshadowing and build-up. Alter has done a brilliant job of leaving breadcrumbs throughout Volume 1 and 2, writing just enough back story to educate, while also trailing plenty of loose-ends to scintillate.
The artwork is phenomenal! I always heap praise upon Richelle Mead for writing action scenes that pop on the page and read like a movie scene. Artist Dave Hamann had a dually hard and easy task of visualizing Mead’s breathtaking scenes – she writes action very fluidly, but with plenty of precise direction. Hamann’s drawings are a lovely representation of Mead’s story and Alter’s script - vividly beautiful and stunningly complex. He does a brilliant job of bringing freakish fae creatures to popping life on the page, while also perfectly visualizing beloved characters. Eugenie is pitch-perfect, at once ab-tastic and stunning (I loved her tattoos!) while her love-interest, Kiyo, is gorgeously hunky. I especially appreciated Hamann’s artwork when it came to the lush, sexy scenes – this is another important component to the ‘Dark Swan’ series, and if Eugenie and Kiyo’s scenes are any indication, fans are in for a treat when Eugenie gets intimate with a certain fae King.
Volume 1 and 2 of Richelle Mead’s ‘Storm Born’ graphic novel is a visual treat and phenomenal urban fantasy. The novel is the perfect introduction for those unfamiliar with Eugenie, while also being a superb adaptation to delight and excite long-time fans of this darkly fantastical series. I can’t wait for Volume 3, since things are sure to get dangerously interesting when Eugenie literally crosses over to the other side. . .
Published by: Sea Lion Books
Written by: Richelle Mead & Grant Alter
Art by: Dave Hamann
Colored by: Nelson Cosention De Oliveira
Lettered by: Dave Lanphear
Cover Art: A- Jennyson Rosero; B- Dave Hamann
Displaying 1 - 30 of 129 reviews