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Ravine
Ravine Vol. 2
THE HIT FANTASY EPIC CONTINUES!
The balance of power in the kingdom of Palladia is threatened, as schemers plot to overthrow the rightful king. Amid this turmoil, a sorcerer named Stein Phais and a dragon rider named Lynn de Luctes are Wanderers, blessed with great power and destinies that can shape the fate of nations. How long will it be before they are drawn into the conflict?
The balance of power in the kingdom of Palladia is threatened, as schemers plot to overthrow the rightful king. Amid this turmoil, a sorcerer named Stein Phais and a dragon rider named Lynn de Luctes are Wanderers, blessed with great power and destinies that can shape the fate of nations. How long will it be before they are drawn into the conflict?
151 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 3, 2013
3 people are currently reading
234 people want to read
About the author
Stjepan Šejić
348 books1,540 followersStjepan Šejić is a Croatian comic book writer and artist, known for his work on the series Witchblade, Aphrodite IX, Sunstone, and The Darkness among others.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews
December 14, 2020
WHAT DO YOU MEAN THERE IS NO VOLUME 3?????!!!!! THIS CANNOT BE! THIS WILL NOT DO!
Because I want more of this:
And more of this:
And more of this:
And more of this:
And more of this:
And let's not forget more of this:
And also (maybe) more of this:
And also (perhaps) more of this:
So. My dearest dearest Stjepan Šejić. Far be it from me to slightly threaten you and stuff (it is quite beneath me and I would obviously never ever stoop so low), but you better write the next volume post haste, or else...
(No pressure and stuff.)
· Volume 1: 4 stars
Because I want more of this:
And more of this:
And more of this:
And more of this:
And more of this:
And let's not forget more of this:
And also (maybe) more of this:
And also (perhaps) more of this:
So. My dearest dearest Stjepan Šejić. Far be it from me to slightly threaten you and stuff (it is quite beneath me and I would obviously never ever stoop so low), but you better write the next volume post haste, or else...
(No pressure and stuff.)
· Volume 1: 4 stars
July 2, 2015
Oduševljenje ovom grafičkom novelom apsolutno nije splasnulo.
Plamen koji su autori u prvom delu zapalili, u nastavku se razgoreo u pravi požar, ali naravno u pozitivnom smislu. Kreativnost bukvalno isijava iz ovog tandema - što vizuelna što narativna. I dalje se oduševljavam grafikom - dogodi mi se da se vratim na neku stranicu da je pogledam još jednom, i još jednom...
Sama priča ide korak dalje i lagano stvari dolaze svaka na svoje mesto. Upoznajemo likove i lagano učimo koje od njih da mrzimo a koje da volimo... A neke od njih baš volimo da mrzimo, a neke volimo iako to možda i nisu zaslužili svojim postupcima...
I tako crtež po crtež, strana po strana, dođemo do cliffhangera i onda otkačimo jer .... AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA treći deo još nije gotov... :(
A šta nam to nudi drugi deo? Akciju, ljubav u nagoveštaju, mržnju, izdaju, humor,... i još mnogo toga!!!
Da sumiram:
*** (ponovo tri zvezdice) za grafiku
* (četvrta zvezdica) za odličan tekst koji je ovog puta obogaćen humorom
* (peta zvezdica) za likove među kojima prednjače Lynn, Nebezial i Delphi
Jedva čekam nastavak!!!!
Plamen koji su autori u prvom delu zapalili, u nastavku se razgoreo u pravi požar, ali naravno u pozitivnom smislu. Kreativnost bukvalno isijava iz ovog tandema - što vizuelna što narativna. I dalje se oduševljavam grafikom - dogodi mi se da se vratim na neku stranicu da je pogledam još jednom, i još jednom...
Sama priča ide korak dalje i lagano stvari dolaze svaka na svoje mesto. Upoznajemo likove i lagano učimo koje od njih da mrzimo a koje da volimo... A neke od njih baš volimo da mrzimo, a neke volimo iako to možda i nisu zaslužili svojim postupcima...
I tako crtež po crtež, strana po strana, dođemo do cliffhangera i onda otkačimo jer .... AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA treći deo još nije gotov... :(
A šta nam to nudi drugi deo? Akciju, ljubav u nagoveštaju, mržnju, izdaju, humor,... i još mnogo toga!!!
Da sumiram:
*** (ponovo tri zvezdice) za grafiku
* (četvrta zvezdica) za odličan tekst koji je ovog puta obogaćen humorom
* (peta zvezdica) za likove među kojima prednjače Lynn, Nebezial i Delphi
Jedva čekam nastavak!!!!
April 13, 2016
The epic fantasy Ravine gets bigger in “Volume 2” as Stjepan Sejic delves into the background of one of his primary characters, one whose anti-hero past is both dark and surprisingly light. Not only does Sejic grow the scale in the story “proper” but his appendix entries makes one wish he had the chance to draw them in epic art instead of prose.
Stein and Lynn join together in their journeys out of Palladia into the territory of the city-state of Wade during which Lynn comes to like the Wanderer, though Stein only tells his traveling companion half-truths about his life while avoiding the darker patches of his personal history. Meanwhile Lynn’s true past surprises and/or angers members of her former Dragoon squad who are sent to meet up in Wade. However Stein’s previous actions and his dark past have him being followed by the Captain of the King’s personal guard who along with a former rural guard-turned-travelling companion interact with someone close to Stein, how they are connected is easily guessed and later confirmed in the appendix tales. The end of the volume has Stein and Lynn facing off with a insane dragonrider terrorizing the trading routes in and around Wade and Palladia, the encounter makes the reader want to see more.
Unfortunately for readers who love both Volumes of Ravine with Sejic’s magnificent art and great storytelling, Volume 2 did not sell well and thus Sejic had to put this series on hold after waiting 11 years to publish this story. If you enjoyed Ravine as much as I do then I encourage you to spread the news about how great Ravine is and get a following for it so Sejic can be able to publish more of this story in the future.
Stein and Lynn join together in their journeys out of Palladia into the territory of the city-state of Wade during which Lynn comes to like the Wanderer, though Stein only tells his traveling companion half-truths about his life while avoiding the darker patches of his personal history. Meanwhile Lynn’s true past surprises and/or angers members of her former Dragoon squad who are sent to meet up in Wade. However Stein’s previous actions and his dark past have him being followed by the Captain of the King’s personal guard who along with a former rural guard-turned-travelling companion interact with someone close to Stein, how they are connected is easily guessed and later confirmed in the appendix tales. The end of the volume has Stein and Lynn facing off with a insane dragonrider terrorizing the trading routes in and around Wade and Palladia, the encounter makes the reader want to see more.
Unfortunately for readers who love both Volumes of Ravine with Sejic’s magnificent art and great storytelling, Volume 2 did not sell well and thus Sejic had to put this series on hold after waiting 11 years to publish this story. If you enjoyed Ravine as much as I do then I encourage you to spread the news about how great Ravine is and get a following for it so Sejic can be able to publish more of this story in the future.
July 14, 2019
Recycling my review from Ravine Volume 1.
Ravine is an epic fantasy story, genre-wise. I have discovered I am not an epic fantasy fan. I don't know which kind of fantasy J.R.R. Tolkien, George R.R. Martin, and the classic myths are classed as, but I love them. This not so much.
I get lost (and very bored) when I'm dropped into another time and place with myriad human and humanoid species and magic and flying creatures and kingdoms and betrayal and backstabbing and dealing with a hero refusing the call to adventure and new languages and cities and faces and side stories and incidentals and whole new mythologies.
Ravine has too much happening right from the outset. It's overwhelming, and isn't easy to read when you're trying to remember who everyone is, where in the multiple kingdoms they are, and pretty much learn a horde of new terminology. Tolkien did it well. George did it well. The classics did it well.
Really successful fantasy stories tend to start somewhere the reader is familiar with and slowly approach the threshold into a new world. A fantasy story doesn't have to start in our world but starting slowly gives us a chance to join the new world. The reader shouldn't have to check the appendix every few minutes - the story should offer important info, the appendix should offer extra info.
Ravine is epic. It sets the bar very high. Evident throughout are the thought, care, and love that have been crafted into the world and characters. I seriously highly recommend Ravine for anyone who is into epic fantasy, but if you're not, Ravine probably isn't the best place to start.
The first line in Ravine is:
The story doesn't introduce anyone and doesn't give the reader enough information to be invested in events. We need a protagonist to carry us through and to know the motivations inspiring the events. That is where Ravine falls flat.
The redeeming factor for Ravine is the art. Holy hand-grenades, Batman. The art! *shakes you violently and yells in your face* Ravine is worth checking out for the incredible art alone. Each and every panel could be a stand-alone picture. I was absolutely floored at just how great the art is. Stjepan Šejić is responsible for the amazing Death Vigil, Vol. 1 which you should definitely check out if you haven't already. It's completely different to Ravine but oh so amazing.
My rating: 4 old alliances out of 5 - because the art is just that good.
Ravine is an epic fantasy story, genre-wise. I have discovered I am not an epic fantasy fan. I don't know which kind of fantasy J.R.R. Tolkien, George R.R. Martin, and the classic myths are classed as, but I love them. This not so much.
I get lost (and very bored) when I'm dropped into another time and place with myriad human and humanoid species and magic and flying creatures and kingdoms and betrayal and backstabbing and dealing with a hero refusing the call to adventure and new languages and cities and faces and side stories and incidentals and whole new mythologies.
Ravine has too much happening right from the outset. It's overwhelming, and isn't easy to read when you're trying to remember who everyone is, where in the multiple kingdoms they are, and pretty much learn a horde of new terminology. Tolkien did it well. George did it well. The classics did it well.
Really successful fantasy stories tend to start somewhere the reader is familiar with and slowly approach the threshold into a new world. A fantasy story doesn't have to start in our world but starting slowly gives us a chance to join the new world. The reader shouldn't have to check the appendix every few minutes - the story should offer important info, the appendix should offer extra info.
Ravine is epic. It sets the bar very high. Evident throughout are the thought, care, and love that have been crafted into the world and characters. I seriously highly recommend Ravine for anyone who is into epic fantasy, but if you're not, Ravine probably isn't the best place to start.
The first line in Ravine is:
Warriors of Aphelion we stand far from home, facing an enemy none of us ever wanted to fight. A man who was once our king leads our kinsmen, who fought and bled with us on Ravenona.That's a lot of information. We're thrown into the midst of a battle for something *shrugs*. Someone is angry about a king, whom I don't (yet?) care about because I know nothing of him. What or where is Aphelion? *Checks map inside cover for mention of Ravenona ... Attempt to locate Ravenona failed* A planet? A mountain? A kingdom? Maybe it's not important. Are Ravenona and Aphelion things I need to remember for later? And on it goes.
The story doesn't introduce anyone and doesn't give the reader enough information to be invested in events. We need a protagonist to carry us through and to know the motivations inspiring the events. That is where Ravine falls flat.
The redeeming factor for Ravine is the art. Holy hand-grenades, Batman. The art! *shakes you violently and yells in your face* Ravine is worth checking out for the incredible art alone. Each and every panel could be a stand-alone picture. I was absolutely floored at just how great the art is. Stjepan Šejić is responsible for the amazing Death Vigil, Vol. 1 which you should definitely check out if you haven't already. It's completely different to Ravine but oh so amazing.
My rating: 4 old alliances out of 5 - because the art is just that good.
April 9, 2024
4,5*
Chřtán je klasická výpravná hrdinská fantasy se vším, co k tomu patří. Osud, předurčení, zrada, dávné křivdy, cesta do pekel dlážděná těmi nejlepšími úmysly, hrdinové, kteří nejsou tak úplně těmi, za koho se vydávají… Pokud patříte k fanouškům podobného typu fantasy, tak Chřtán zkuste. Celý příběh má neskutečnou atmosféru, ještě navíc umocněnou úžasnou kresbou a potěší každého milovníka dobrodružství a dobrých příběhů. A taky draků, protože ti jsou tu ohromně důležití, ať už pro příběh jako takový, nebo pro kosmologii Šejićova světa. Což se koneckonců mohou čtenáři dozvědět v celé řadě krásně zpracovaných dodatků na konci obou knih.
Jako já uznávám, že asi nejsem úplně objektivní... Chřtán totiž není kdovíjak objevný, ale tak nějak si nemyslím, že všechno musí být za každou cenu rádoby originální, aby se to dalo označit za dobré. Baví mě Šejićova práce s postavami a také to, jak skvěle využívá tradiční žánrové prvky - je to poctivě odvedená práce, na níž je patrná láska k žánru, a to není zrovna málo. Jsme teprve a začátku, ale věřím, že to bude pořádná jízda.
Chřtán stojí za pozornost, a to i za předpokladu, že nepatříte zrovna k milovníkům komiksů. Pevně věřím, že se brzy dočkáme dalších knih, k čemuž dozajista přispěl i prodej licence na český překlad – který byl i pro samotného autora velice milým překvapením.
Chřtán je klasická výpravná hrdinská fantasy se vším, co k tomu patří. Osud, předurčení, zrada, dávné křivdy, cesta do pekel dlážděná těmi nejlepšími úmysly, hrdinové, kteří nejsou tak úplně těmi, za koho se vydávají… Pokud patříte k fanouškům podobného typu fantasy, tak Chřtán zkuste. Celý příběh má neskutečnou atmosféru, ještě navíc umocněnou úžasnou kresbou a potěší každého milovníka dobrodružství a dobrých příběhů. A taky draků, protože ti jsou tu ohromně důležití, ať už pro příběh jako takový, nebo pro kosmologii Šejićova světa. Což se koneckonců mohou čtenáři dozvědět v celé řadě krásně zpracovaných dodatků na konci obou knih.
Jako já uznávám, že asi nejsem úplně objektivní... Chřtán totiž není kdovíjak objevný, ale tak nějak si nemyslím, že všechno musí být za každou cenu rádoby originální, aby se to dalo označit za dobré. Baví mě Šejićova práce s postavami a také to, jak skvěle využívá tradiční žánrové prvky - je to poctivě odvedená práce, na níž je patrná láska k žánru, a to není zrovna málo. Jsme teprve a začátku, ale věřím, že to bude pořádná jízda.
Chřtán stojí za pozornost, a to i za předpokladu, že nepatříte zrovna k milovníkům komiksů. Pevně věřím, že se brzy dočkáme dalších knih, k čemuž dozajista přispěl i prodej licence na český překlad – který byl i pro samotného autora velice milým překvapením.
October 25, 2016
And so I read ''Ravine'' volume 2.
And it was glorious.
Thought about ending the review there, because I'm so damn tired and fatigued! But thought you deserved a little more.
Mostly because I gave the first volume 4/5 stars, and this one jumped up a bit.
That has one reason.
Everything that I loved with the first volume, is still present. The artstyle is lovly. I really like the characters. The humor is just up my alley.
And, we got to know the world a little better.
If you remember my review of the first volume, I was a bit confused. Most of that let up while reading this album.
Now I'm going to order everything else Sejic has ever drawn, just because I think I'm fangirling all over his art.
And it was glorious.
Thought about ending the review there, because I'm so damn tired and fatigued! But thought you deserved a little more.
Mostly because I gave the first volume 4/5 stars, and this one jumped up a bit.
That has one reason.
Everything that I loved with the first volume, is still present. The artstyle is lovly. I really like the characters. The humor is just up my alley.
And, we got to know the world a little better.
If you remember my review of the first volume, I was a bit confused. Most of that let up while reading this album.
Now I'm going to order everything else Sejic has ever drawn, just because I think I'm fangirling all over his art.
December 17, 2017
EVEN MORE DRAGONS.
So yes, this was great. An epic fantasy with cool, unique and weirdly life-like art and so many fucking dragons. I was ecstatic - if not only it had ended with a huge cliffhanger and then the news that we probably won't be getting any more of this story.
This obviously sucks, as I was really starting to get into this series and the scale of it was growing. The pace and information delivery was still a bit off, but improved so much from the first issue that I just know that this series would have continued getting maturing and getting better and better - but now I guess we'll sadly never know what happens with Lynn, Stein, their grimlas and all those dragons. Boo. Why can't we have nice things?
So yes, this was great. An epic fantasy with cool, unique and weirdly life-like art and so many fucking dragons. I was ecstatic - if not only it had ended with a huge cliffhanger and then the news that we probably won't be getting any more of this story.
This obviously sucks, as I was really starting to get into this series and the scale of it was growing. The pace and information delivery was still a bit off, but improved so much from the first issue that I just know that this series would have continued getting maturing and getting better and better - but now I guess we'll sadly never know what happens with Lynn, Stein, their grimlas and all those dragons. Boo. Why can't we have nice things?
June 30, 2018
This continues the story of Stein and Lynn as they make their way across the lands of Ravine. They travel to a kind of melting pot city where Stein actually is royalty and is known as a hero. Lynn has yet to discover that Stein is actually the Reaper of legends past. The pair end up attacked by wyverns who are destroyed by Lynn's dragon, and they also defeat a dragon master, who can actually command the dragons. The pair discover also that the wyverns are forged, which mean they are magically altered to grow larger and stronger. The politics and heavy hitters moving behind the scenes meet and the actual identity of Lynn is revealed.
Overall this was as good as the first volume. The writing is dense and informative, the art absolutely breathtaking. The dragons and facial features of the human-like characters is simply sublime and Sejic is fast moving to be in the group of my favorite comic artists, like Texiera, Keown, and Coipel. Wonderful storytelling here!
Danny
Overall this was as good as the first volume. The writing is dense and informative, the art absolutely breathtaking. The dragons and facial features of the human-like characters is simply sublime and Sejic is fast moving to be in the group of my favorite comic artists, like Texiera, Keown, and Coipel. Wonderful storytelling here!
Danny
February 15, 2020
I happened across Volumes 1 and 2 at the library.
While I love fantasy, political intrigue is one of my least favorite things - whether it be in books or movies. It always seems like there’s not enough time to tell backstories and get to know characters. There are too many players, and too much going on to understand everything happening in a movie or comic. Is this what non-sci-fi fans feel when they watch science fiction?
I kinda got bored with this second volume. Though the art was cool.
I guess I wasn’t the only one. The story was to be continued, but there doesn’t seem to be a volume 3 on the horizon.
While I love fantasy, political intrigue is one of my least favorite things - whether it be in books or movies. It always seems like there’s not enough time to tell backstories and get to know characters. There are too many players, and too much going on to understand everything happening in a movie or comic. Is this what non-sci-fi fans feel when they watch science fiction?
I kinda got bored with this second volume. Though the art was cool.
I guess I wasn’t the only one. The story was to be continued, but there doesn’t seem to be a volume 3 on the horizon.
May 8, 2019
No samozrejme, že práve ja sa musím zamilovať do komiksu, ktorý pravdepodobne nikdy nebude dokončený!
Tento príbeh je úplne úžasný. Klasická epická fantasy (Dokonca s drakmi!) navyše s krásnym prevedením. Niekoľko zaujímavých línií, ktoré sa navzájom preplietajú. Zložité charaktery všakovakých postáv. Už som spomínala tú výnimočne krásnu grafiku? A najhoršie na tom je, že sa asi nikdy nedozviem, ako to skončí...
Život vážne nie je fér.
Tento príbeh je úplne úžasný. Klasická epická fantasy (Dokonca s drakmi!) navyše s krásnym prevedením. Niekoľko zaujímavých línií, ktoré sa navzájom preplietajú. Zložité charaktery všakovakých postáv. Už som spomínala tú výnimočne krásnu grafiku? A najhoršie na tom je, že sa asi nikdy nedozviem, ako to skončí...
Život vážne nie je fér.
October 7, 2021
Story maybe 2 stars. Art 5 stars. I could look at Šejić's women's faces all day. Eines is a delight. Mary is gorgeous. (Although in the story at the end it said Mary was the one with only one good eye, so that's a bit confusing.)
I still don't really know what is going on, but I hope Lynn is ok. And I need to see more Eines. She reminds me of Isabela from Dragon Age.
Oh and is the fact they're called Eines and Stein a thing?
I still don't really know what is going on, but I hope Lynn is ok. And I need to see more Eines. She reminds me of Isabela from Dragon Age.
Oh and is the fact they're called Eines and Stein a thing?
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 15, 2020
Some of the best Fantasy I have ever seen in a graphic novel.
This world is really amazing. Sejic really has something special here. I really hope one day we can get a part three. The story and world are both so good and I can't get enough!
This world is really amazing. Sejic really has something special here. I really hope one day we can get a part three. The story and world are both so good and I can't get enough!
July 12, 2022
I wish this was going to be continued :( the art was spectacular. Šejić was meant to draw fantasy (and everything else lol). Also the story was super engaging, along with some intense and thought-out world-building. The art was a huge draw, but I would finish the story in any form tbh.
October 23, 2017
The art and the story of these comics is simply phenomenal. I don't even understand how it can be this good. D:
April 10, 2018
The story got better, the characters had better banter, and I really enjoyed this volume.
August 14, 2018
Liked it. Lots of magic and dragons. What's there not to like?!
October 19, 2019
Why isn't there more volumes???? This story is amazing and I surprisingly love the stories in the back. Honestly this whole series is phenomenal and needs more issues/volumes!!
January 2, 2020
Ahhhhhhh! Where is the end!!! 🤬😠
December 11, 2022
3 and a half star
February 10, 2017
I'll never ever ever manage to finish my reading challange if I stay so much time in Hearthstone. And I hate my sister for pestering me with it. I just wanna play casually and she's always absorbed by it. Gah, I need to read a good book.
May include spoilers! Read at your own risk!
Ok so continuing with the story, quite a few things begin to happen.
For one Lynn gets to befriend Stein... and seeing them together I thought they were in their twenties... well at least that's what they look like drawn in the creator's style. Then after I managed to tie loose ends together I managed to figure out their true ages. Lynn is 16 because that's the age when young people choose weapon from the faetree and Stein is over 19 years of age. That means the distruction of Ardunat and the Liberation War happened just a few years ago. The way the characters kept talking about it made these events seem like they happened AGES ago.
Of all the things I would have predicted I would have never guessed that the harsh commander and Stein were former lovers... Stein doesn't seem the type to build a harem for himself, tho admittedly there's quite a number of females swarming around him.
Hah, I knew that at one point there was going to be a moment in which Stein's guiding spirit would get interested in the identity of Lynn's guardian spirit. Lemme anticipate further if you will, Stein and Lynn will become lovers... because their guiding spirtis were once lovers? How romantic *gag*.
Of all the people in the world I wouldnt' have named Eines as Stein's sister, though the similarities are there, not gonna lie. She's a mass murderer, he's a mass murderer.
Speaking of which, I just realised that Stein is a necryte... an abomination of magic according to the in-universe info and he's.... awfully terrfying. I mean it, if it weren't for Azriel, I think Stein would have lost his minds so many times by now.
Lynn becomes a most wanted character because it's finally gotten out the info that she's an heir of a protected family of the dragons... I didn't really catch that, but she's important, so it's not a good thing to have her wander around. Of course, people jokingly say that the only person that she needs to fear is the Reaper of Ardunat and irony, they are already escorting one another.
Now Nebezial's story line I don't really understand to be frank... why is he still alive and what's his purpose, I still dunno.
On the plus side however, in this volume we get a lot of backstory on both Lynn and Stein and knowing more about your main charcters is never a bad thing, though I doubt there was any relevance in knowing that Stein was a virgin when he first slept with Mary >.- One thing's certain, I don't associate the graphic novel Stein with the short story Stein, they don't read like the same person so there's that.
Let's Rate This - 7.7 / 10
Setting and Atmosphere - 7
Plot - 8
Main Characters - 8
Secondary Characters - 7
Antagonists - 7
Writing - 7
Artwork - 10
Enjoyability - 8
My other reviews :D
May include spoilers! Read at your own risk!
Ok so continuing with the story, quite a few things begin to happen.
For one Lynn gets to befriend Stein... and seeing them together I thought they were in their twenties... well at least that's what they look like drawn in the creator's style. Then after I managed to tie loose ends together I managed to figure out their true ages. Lynn is 16 because that's the age when young people choose weapon from the faetree and Stein is over 19 years of age. That means the distruction of Ardunat and the Liberation War happened just a few years ago. The way the characters kept talking about it made these events seem like they happened AGES ago.
Of all the things I would have predicted I would have never guessed that the harsh commander and Stein were former lovers... Stein doesn't seem the type to build a harem for himself, tho admittedly there's quite a number of females swarming around him.
Hah, I knew that at one point there was going to be a moment in which Stein's guiding spirit would get interested in the identity of Lynn's guardian spirit. Lemme anticipate further if you will, Stein and Lynn will become lovers... because their guiding spirtis were once lovers? How romantic *gag*.
Of all the people in the world I wouldnt' have named Eines as Stein's sister, though the similarities are there, not gonna lie. She's a mass murderer, he's a mass murderer.
Speaking of which, I just realised that Stein is a necryte... an abomination of magic according to the in-universe info and he's.... awfully terrfying. I mean it, if it weren't for Azriel, I think Stein would have lost his minds so many times by now.
Lynn becomes a most wanted character because it's finally gotten out the info that she's an heir of a protected family of the dragons... I didn't really catch that, but she's important, so it's not a good thing to have her wander around. Of course, people jokingly say that the only person that she needs to fear is the Reaper of Ardunat and irony, they are already escorting one another.
Now Nebezial's story line I don't really understand to be frank... why is he still alive and what's his purpose, I still dunno.
On the plus side however, in this volume we get a lot of backstory on both Lynn and Stein and knowing more about your main charcters is never a bad thing, though I doubt there was any relevance in knowing that Stein was a virgin when he first slept with Mary >.- One thing's certain, I don't associate the graphic novel Stein with the short story Stein, they don't read like the same person so there's that.
Let's Rate This - 7.7 / 10
Setting and Atmosphere - 7
Plot - 8
Main Characters - 8
Secondary Characters - 7
Antagonists - 7
Writing - 7
Artwork - 10
Enjoyability - 8
My other reviews :D
February 7, 2017
This is the second book in the Ravine graphic novel series and it was very well done. I absolutely love the illustration throughout and am also enjoying the characters a lot.
The evil Nebezial is still trying to control dragons and take over everything. Stein and Lynn de Luctes are mostly ignorant as to these doings and end up on a journey to the town of Wade. Here Stein hopes to fix his runeglass and get some winter gear so that him and Lynn can continue on their journey. Bonus stories about the Duchess of Corredon and about how Stein helped Peter free the city of Wade are included at the end of the novel.
Much of this novel is dedicated to Lynn and Stein traveling together and learning how to trust each other in the trials ahead. We learn a lot about Stein’s past and some of his strangeness and also learn more of Lynn’s background. Meanwhile caravans are being attacked by dragons and the Palladian King sends Antheus and Arthur to try and track down the source of these attacks.
I really enjoy the characters of Lynn and Stein; the dialogue between the two is fun and snarky. I love that they both have complex pasts and histories. The illustration really adds to the story; it is incredibly detailed, has amazing color, and the characters are given wonderful facial expressions. In fact the facial expressions on the characters in here really stand out and add a lot to the story.
My only complaint is that this story jumps around a lot. It would have been nice to have a little bubble letting you know when you were switch places/POVs. Occasionally there is a bubble letting you know you are switching location, but it’s inconsistent. There is an index of character names/pictures in the back; I wish this had been in the front because I was struggling to remember who everyone was and then I got to the back and was like “Ah ha! This would have been really helpful before I read the story!”
Overall this was another incredibly beautiful and entertaining installment in the Ravine series. I love the fantasy setting and the complex character in here. I also really love the unique and beautiful illustration style. I would definitely recommend to those who enjoy fantasy graphic novels. Now I can’t wait for the third one to release!
The evil Nebezial is still trying to control dragons and take over everything. Stein and Lynn de Luctes are mostly ignorant as to these doings and end up on a journey to the town of Wade. Here Stein hopes to fix his runeglass and get some winter gear so that him and Lynn can continue on their journey. Bonus stories about the Duchess of Corredon and about how Stein helped Peter free the city of Wade are included at the end of the novel.
Much of this novel is dedicated to Lynn and Stein traveling together and learning how to trust each other in the trials ahead. We learn a lot about Stein’s past and some of his strangeness and also learn more of Lynn’s background. Meanwhile caravans are being attacked by dragons and the Palladian King sends Antheus and Arthur to try and track down the source of these attacks.
I really enjoy the characters of Lynn and Stein; the dialogue between the two is fun and snarky. I love that they both have complex pasts and histories. The illustration really adds to the story; it is incredibly detailed, has amazing color, and the characters are given wonderful facial expressions. In fact the facial expressions on the characters in here really stand out and add a lot to the story.
My only complaint is that this story jumps around a lot. It would have been nice to have a little bubble letting you know when you were switch places/POVs. Occasionally there is a bubble letting you know you are switching location, but it’s inconsistent. There is an index of character names/pictures in the back; I wish this had been in the front because I was struggling to remember who everyone was and then I got to the back and was like “Ah ha! This would have been really helpful before I read the story!”
Overall this was another incredibly beautiful and entertaining installment in the Ravine series. I love the fantasy setting and the complex character in here. I also really love the unique and beautiful illustration style. I would definitely recommend to those who enjoy fantasy graphic novels. Now I can’t wait for the third one to release!
January 21, 2015
If you read my review for the first volume of this series, you won't be surprised to hear that I was SUPER pleased to find the mini-novella/short story at the end of this book. I still feel that this world is deep and rich and interesting, and lends itself to novel format more than graphic novel format. (The extra star is because of the novella!)
By and large, I enjoyed this volume every bit as much as the first. However there were two things that I found irritating:
First, Arianna's behaviour regarding Lynn's secret. HOLY OVERREACTION, BATMAN! It doesn't make a lot of sense that she'd be THAT angry at Lynn, who we're supposed to believe she cares about a lot, when THE POWERS THAT BE like Lynn's uncle, who sent Lynn there UNDERCOVER in the first place don't even get so much as a sharp word. "Lying little rat"? Wow, bitch, calm your tits. All Lynn did was keep a VERY important secret from everyone, which wasn't even her idea in the first place. After 15 years of training together, Arianna should know that Lynn's not some spoiled duchess.
Second, once again we end the book with Lynn unconscious and being carried off to safety by Hurricos. I'm sensing a pattern here, and I don't like that. (The 'scratch holes' thing was ridiculous too, but I won't get into a rant about the recurring problems with female armour in high fantasy.)
Other than those two flaws, I really enjoyed this book, and am really looking forward to the next one! Stein remains my favourite character--I love the sly tricksters who have secret badass moves up their sleeves.
By and large, I enjoyed this volume every bit as much as the first. However there were two things that I found irritating:
First, Arianna's behaviour regarding Lynn's secret. HOLY OVERREACTION, BATMAN! It doesn't make a lot of sense that she'd be THAT angry at Lynn, who we're supposed to believe she cares about a lot, when THE POWERS THAT BE like Lynn's uncle, who sent Lynn there UNDERCOVER in the first place don't even get so much as a sharp word. "Lying little rat"? Wow, bitch, calm your tits. All Lynn did was keep a VERY important secret from everyone, which wasn't even her idea in the first place. After 15 years of training together, Arianna should know that Lynn's not some spoiled duchess.
Second, once again we end the book with Lynn unconscious and being carried off to safety by Hurricos. I'm sensing a pattern here, and I don't like that. (The 'scratch holes' thing was ridiculous too, but I won't get into a rant about the recurring problems with female armour in high fantasy.)
Other than those two flaws, I really enjoyed this book, and am really looking forward to the next one! Stein remains my favourite character--I love the sly tricksters who have secret badass moves up their sleeves.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 5, 2014
While the first volume suffered from what I call "the newcomer's issues" (long story short: too many terms in too little time, thus no time for character and plot development), this one has managed to present the world more smoothly.
The first battle was presented, like a small glimpse of the two protagonists' power, Stein's especially. This alone would be enough to create excitement for the continuation, but it's not the only thing: Nebezial, the antagonist has proven to be a very intruiging character.
Now, there's one gripe in all of this: the relationship between Stein and Lynn. It's obvious they'll be involved romantically and Stjepan has honestly tried to build trust and friendship between them first. No problems with this, since I'ma firm suppoerter of the "love is friendship on fire" saying. However, this journey was summarised in a few pages with panels showing the time passing and these two interacting. While their interaction definitely isn't barebones, Stein being so devoted to Lynn by the end of the volume while in the beginning she attacked him seems hurried.
I pray that the leads won't end up being the weak links of this story, with the side characters (and the antagonist especially) being both superior and more interesting.
To another Fastansytic volume, mr. Sejic and a prayer for the issed to be fixed.
The first battle was presented, like a small glimpse of the two protagonists' power, Stein's especially. This alone would be enough to create excitement for the continuation, but it's not the only thing: Nebezial, the antagonist has proven to be a very intruiging character.
Now, there's one gripe in all of this: the relationship between Stein and Lynn. It's obvious they'll be involved romantically and Stjepan has honestly tried to build trust and friendship between them first. No problems with this, since I'ma firm suppoerter of the "love is friendship on fire" saying. However, this journey was summarised in a few pages with panels showing the time passing and these two interacting. While their interaction definitely isn't barebones, Stein being so devoted to Lynn by the end of the volume while in the beginning she attacked him seems hurried.
I pray that the leads won't end up being the weak links of this story, with the side characters (and the antagonist especially) being both superior and more interesting.
To another Fastans
May 29, 2015
La segunda entrega de Sejic, pero se siente como si fuera la primera. Ahora por fin tenemos algo de historia y no solo una seguidilla de introducciones a la pasada. Tenemos hilos en movimiento y algo que esperar en el tercer volumen.
El arte sigue siendo lo mejor de Sejic, cada panel presenta una calidad increible para que valga solo por si mismo. (Lo cual también me dice que debe faltar harto tiempo para el volumen 3)
Pero el tomo no es solo una seguidilla de acción. Seguimos conociendo a los personajes, esta vez con bastante más trasfondo . Vemos consecuencias, aunque el cliffhanger final tampoco es suficiente para dejarnos emocionados. Pero el tomo es una gran mejora sobre el volumen 1.
El arte sigue siendo lo mejor de Sejic, cada panel presenta una calidad increible para que valga solo por si mismo. (Lo cual también me dice que debe faltar harto tiempo para el volumen 3)
Pero el tomo no es solo una seguidilla de acción. Seguimos conociendo a los personajes, esta vez con bastante más trasfondo . Vemos consecuencias, aunque el cliffhanger final tampoco es suficiente para dejarnos emocionados. Pero el tomo es una gran mejora sobre el volumen 1.
April 19, 2015
I'm loving Ravine – it's all so beautifully illustrated (painted?), that every panel is a small work of art, whether it's a stunning landscape or a subtle emotion – and the epic background history that's set the story in motion has a richness to match. But what I love the most are the wonderfully observed character interactions and relationships. In volume 2 we also get two big personal secrets revealed to us – though only one of them is shared between the two main protagonists. I always enjoy that anticipation, too, of wondering how Character A will react when she discovers Secret X about Character B. The after-story extras continue to add a lot – though I do wish they could have chosen a larger font for some of the pieces: I think for many people, those snippets will be skipped as just too hard to read – which would be a pity. The big background plot is intriguing, too: I'm still not sure who the biggest bad guy is, and whether everything there is quite as clear cut as it seems. I'm eagerly looking forward to the next volume.
February 5, 2017
I enjoyed the first volume greatly and where it made for a nice opening and setting for the world, the story that picks up in this book feels more directed and focused.
Political drama is brought more the forefront as we see scheming rulers, threatened kingdoms, and those who are fated to change the fate of nations. Whether for good or bad remains to be seen.
More character backstory offers deeper insight into where Stein and Lynn come from and nicely sets up their budding friendship and trust as they journey along.
The artwork really helps bring to life the story being told along with some great women, smart humor and of course some pretty awesome dragons.
Although these volumes are a few years old I do wish it would get more support as well as a third volume. This is a series with a lot of potential.
Political drama is brought more the forefront as we see scheming rulers, threatened kingdoms, and those who are fated to change the fate of nations. Whether for good or bad remains to be seen.
More character backstory offers deeper insight into where Stein and Lynn come from and nicely sets up their budding friendship and trust as they journey along.
The artwork really helps bring to life the story being told along with some great women, smart humor and of course some pretty awesome dragons.
Although these volumes are a few years old I do wish it would get more support as well as a third volume. This is a series with a lot of potential.
January 24, 2015
With drool-worthy art by Sejic and a fascinating world, bursting with lore and plenty of interesting characters by Marz, Ravine is a delicious fantasy comic. Volume two becomes more engaging as the story progresses and new characters are introduced. The start of the book, however, is a bit slow. One downside for me, personally, is trying to keep track of all the characters, histories, geography, and terms in general. I know it's usually part of the territory, and I appreciate the complex world Marz is building, but the sheer amount of it makes my eyes glaze over sometimes. That said, I enjoy reading Ravine and will continue following the series.
May 15, 2016
The adventure continues as the awol dragon-rider, Lynn, and the mysterious wanderer, Stein, journey to the bustling commerce kingdom of Wade. Complex and powerful characters, intricate world-building and, of course, gorgeous artwork, Ravine is swords and sorcery fantasy at its finest. I particularly love the depiction of strong female characters, both heroines and villains, as competent and valued participants in the story; as well as, the diverse cultural mix of the peoples and kingdoms. Clever humor throughout lightens the mood from political intrigue and dark magics. 5 Reaper bombs out of 5.
October 23, 2014
Wonderful continuation to the series. Stjepan Sejic's artwork beautifully complements the story. The entire world seems familiar yet altogether new. Most of the characters are memorable and have distinct personalities. The story gives the reader enough information to start understanding how the world of Ravine works, but keeps enough back to ensure that people will want to continue reading. I'm eagerly awaiting the next installment of the series.
Highly recommended for comic and fantasy fans alike.
Highly recommended for comic and fantasy fans alike.
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December 30, 2014Man, the illustrations are amazing and glorious. Beautiful.
The story is a pretty straightforward fantasy adventure, although the politics, like sometimes happens in these stories, get waaaaay too long without any climax to them. The plot is kind of obvious, too, but the supporting characters like the Ripper, Mary, Eines and Arianna rock my socks.
The story is a pretty straightforward fantasy adventure, although the politics, like sometimes happens in these stories, get waaaaay too long without any climax to them. The plot is kind of obvious, too, but the supporting characters like the Ripper, Mary, Eines and Arianna rock my socks.
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