Isabellae Volume 1

Isabellae #1-3

by Raule, Gabor (Illustrator)

In the midst of feudal Japan, Isabellae Ashiwara, the fiercely independent daughter of a Celtic witch and a samurai master, roams the countryside with her father's ghost at her side, earning her living as a highly-skilled bounty hunter while searching for her long-lost sister, Siuko. Acquiring a misfit crew along the way, Isabellae battles against evil both worldly and supernatural, inching ever closer to discovering the truth of her haunted past and embracing her destiny.

From the brilliant minds of Raule and Gabor, Dark Horse Books is thrilled to present the first volume of Isabellae, collecting the first three French volumes in one compendium and offered in English print-format for the first time.

Collects French volumes 1-3

Genres: Graphic Novels, Comics, Fantasy, Historical Fiction, Graphic Novels Manga, Comic Book, Graphic Novels Comics

152 pages, Hardcover

Published August 20, 2019

About the author

Raule a brièvement suivi des cours de bande dessinée à l’École Joso. En 1993, il lance le fanzine «Tribulaciones» avec le dessinateur M. Chaves. Tous deux remportent le «Prix du meilleur scénario dessiné» du concours de BD d’El Prat del Llobregat. En 1994, le duo crée notamment «Lady Down» pour la revue «De Tebeos» publiée à Almería. En 1995 et 1996, pour les éditions Camaleón, ils collaborent au premier et au dernier numéro de «Ryu», revue manga réunissant divers auteurs hispaniques, et ils produisent «Violencia Sonica», mini-série de 4 épisodes compilés en un tome en 1997. C’est alors que Raule entame une collaboration exclusive avec Roger Ibáñez dans «Otaku», la revue manga des éditions Norma. En 1999, toujours avec Roger au dessin, il travaille pour le magazine «Penthouse Comix» des éditions El Jueves. En 2002 et 2003, ils publient ensemble «Hole’n’Virgin», «Amores muertos» et «Cabos sueltos» aux éditions Amaníaco. Présentée au Salon de la BD de Barcelone, cette dernière réalisation séduit le scénariste J.D. Morvan («Al Togo» - «Reality Show») qui la soumet à Dargaud. De là naît au Festival d’Angoulême 2004, le projet du triptyque «Jazz Maynard». Le premier de ces 3 albums sort en juin 2007.

Reviews

[Sara the Librarian · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a beautiful and bloody adventure and a total feast for the eyes. In feudal era Japan Isabellae is the daughter of a fallen samurai and a mysterious red haired woman from the west. She is on a quest to find her twin sister, missing for seven years. With only the spirit of her father as a companion she's wandered the land battling murderers and bandits for the bounties they bring, always searching.

I love the whole wandering samurai thing and its a nice flip to have it be a capable, kick ass young woman. Isabellae also isn't just a stoic, statue of a warrior, she's full of passion and empathy for the struggles of others and when she picks up a few stray companions on her travels its not long before they're trusted and indispensable friends.

This was a very exciting read that called to mind magical films like "Crouching Tiger Hidden Dragon" and more epic films like "Seven Samurai." I'm definitely on board to find out how it all ends.

[Ksenia (vaenn) · Rating 3 out of 5]

У Ізабелли руде волосся, зелені очі, катана та настирливий привид батька-самурая під боком. Ізабелла шукає сестру, з якою всмерть розварилася після смерті матері-ірландської чаклунки, а натомість знаходить кумедного недоченця, симпатичного бандита, потім ще літнього художника, мавпочку, купу зомбаків, не аж такого симпатичного бандита, вопшем, все завєртє...

Напівомнібус "Ізабелл" містить три історії і якісь вони... не дуже рівнозначні, але по-своєму страшенно послідовні. Перша радує шляхетним безумом сюжетного старту, шалено красивою середньовічною Японією і деякими дрібничками. Іншим - не радує, так всю дорогу і виїжджає на оригінальності задуму та графічному насиллі. Починаючи з другої частини сюжет обростає локаціями, героями, мотивацією цих героїв (а от з характерами в цих героїв все ще велика біда) і отого насилля заради насилля стає менше. І все це добре, і все гарно, але все одно нагадує тривалий прикол, що все не закінчується і не закінчується. Іноді самої ідеї "впихнути невпихуєме" (як визначав політичний класик) замало. Але ідея була хороша, чого вже там.

[Dev · Rating 4 out of 5]

Took me awhile to warm up to this but once I did I really enjoyed it. I think there probably could have been less nudity - or maybe just better drawn nudity? alas, #comicsproblems - but the characters and story were interesting and with a few exceptions I really liked the art. I will definitely be checking out the next volume.

[Dakota Morgan · Rating 3 out of 5]

Isabellae is a wandering bounty hunter in feudal Japan, trying to catch her lost sister, listen to her ghost dad, and maybe solve some kind of crisis in far-away Ireland. She encounters numerous companions who join her on her quest, most mildly interesting, if generally stock characters. The art captures the Japanese setting well and excels in the bloody action scenes.

In the end, though, Isabellae doesn't go beyond merely enjoyable. There are a few too many threads, too much unexplained magic. The first volume feels like a bit of a drop into the deep end, though the other two volumes in this collection are much crisper, narratively. I'd finish the series if the second volume showed up at the library, but I wouldn't seek it out aggressively.

[Bobbie · Rating 4 out of 5]

The art style is incredible. Vivid, striking imagery that draws you in. This graphic novel had everything. Gore, magic, zombies, ghosts, sex. I'm eager to see the conclusion in volume two.

I read an omnibus version. My only compliant is that the book transition wasn't clear. Though, it wasn't much of an issue since I read them all so quickly. But probably because I didn't know when to take a break lol.

[Ken Yuen · Rating 4 out of 5]

Fun pulpy comic. Good art. Good variety of characters and mystical elements.

I'm not sure about Siuko's spelling though, maybe they meant Suiko?

Always enjoy looking at comics from France.

[OmniBen · Rating 4 out of 5]

(Zero spoiler review)
This will very much be a review of two parts (which the divergent scores will reflect), as I cannot recall a time when I have rather enjoyed the first book in a series, only to have my opinion be so completely reversed upon picking up the second, to the point where I have to suspect the author suffered some sort of mild brain injury in between the completion of one and the commencement of the other. The first volume had gorgeous artwork, an interesting, although not wholly original premise, interesting characters setting out on a meaningful journey, reasonably competent dialogue. In short, all the makings of a thoroughly decent comic book. Sadly, what followed in book number two wound back nearly everything positive about the first book, replacing it with mundane dialogue, bloated and boring fight scenes, the complete reversal of any meaningful character development, and more plot contrivances and conveniences than you could swing a samurai sword at. If it wasn't for the artwork still being penciled by the supremely talented Gabor, There would be nothing of substance here to discover. Even if you can tell the lackluster turns of the story affected his enthusiasm for his craft. Upon completion of the first book, I messaged a friend and recommended he read it. The following day, I had to apologise and rescind my recommendation, as it had all gone so pear shaped so quickly, in a way that would have made even the most belligerent of comic book hacks green with envy. If you're the type of person who can stop reading a story halfway through when it goes tits up, or if you are someone who can push through a godawful narrative if the art is rather fetching, then by all mans, start this series. If not, best leave this one alone. 3.75/5 for book one. 2/5 for book two.

OmniBen.

[Katja · Rating 4 out of 5]

The blurb for this sounded at the same time interesting (which is why I picked it up from the library) and a possible mess but fortunately it turned out to be an enjoyable romp. It's fantasy-alternative history thing, there's real historical events and people but there are also supernatural elements and the world looks kinda fantasy-Asian. One thing bothered me though: since they reference real historical people and real places, why not use actual Japanese names but something that kinda sounds like Japanese but actually isn't? Well, the protagonist is called Isabellae too, so I guess they just wanted to be edgy.

But name things aside, the story is entertaining quest: Isabellae wants to find her sister, and she feels guilty for some things that happened in the past and which made the sisters estranged. There's plenty of well drawn action and varied locations and situations the characters find themselves in. The characters aren't very likable though, everyone frowning all the time because they are either grumpy, furious, angry or frustrated. Nobody is ever happy. Which is understandable given the circumstances but for example why does Masshiro think he could charm Isabellae by being shouty and jealous? Sigh...
But, because I like the world, its lore and the story, and some of the characters do show tiny glimpses there's something more to them too, I still enjoyed the book.

And I liked the art: backgrounds are detailed, movement is well drawn and colours are used very nicely.

[Centauri · Rating 4 out of 5]

A fresh spin on feudal Japan and its lords at war.
Defying the expectations of a female in 12th century Japan, as well as bearing the stigma of being half foreigner, the protagonist is well equipped for combat. She also as the bonus of being able to communicate with her dead father; a ghost can come in handy during combat (no spoilers here, promise).
The tale follows the standard genre quip: lone warrior on a quest, escaping a mysterious past. But then the story goes off on its own unique journey after that is cemented as a foundation. She doesn't take anyone's crap and she tries to do what is right at all times. She makes mistakes but learns from them. Part of the tale's strength comes from the diversity and gender of the protagonists; it would not have worked so well if it had been a male, even if of Japanese decent.
The societal dynamics are very much in play and it helps understand the character more. I do think the events of the story feel rushed and would love to read a novelization so we can see more of the trek and Isabellae handling those really hard life lessons.

[Jon · Rating 4 out of 5]

This surprised me, to be honest. I wasn't sure if I would be into it or not, based on how it sort of sounded like a MadLib when described to me. Half-Celt girl raised by her samurai father, hunting her witch sister across 1100s Japan, with ZOMBIES? I will admit to rolling my eyes. And I'm so mad I did. This book was actually super fun, and I feel bad for thinking anything else. It reminded me of three things that I really enjoy on their own, namely Brave, Samurai Jack, and the Dark Times Star Wars comic.
The main thing that I took away from it was the gathering of the team for the final episode (coming in November in TPB form, so I will not so patiently wait). I'm a sucker for a good action team, so the gathering of a warrior (with a sad back story, and who can play a mean musical instrument), a sexy rogue, a failed monk teenager (who was once a zombie?) and a MONKEY has me very excited to see what comes next.

[Jenna · Rating 3 out of 5]

A very odd feeling comic with buckets of blood, violence, and spontaneous nudity (so many conversations kept happening while bathing or dressing, it was like I was rereading Love Hina). I wish the twins didn’t look completely clones of the parents, as technically they should be biracial.

Entertaining but still managed to feel familiar despite having quite a different storyline. Might try the second volume to see what happens.

[Hope · Rating 3 out of 5]

Three stars, it had smooth art. Well coloured, and the action was bloody and visceral, without dwelling in gore.. But it had that comic book feel of jerky leaps of emotions and action, that I always feels leaves something lacking. Definitely a great book for some audiences, but not exactly up my alley. Not a bad story, had some great references to historical moments and figures and mythology. Great opportunity for some extra learning if you research each of these references as they pop up.
Only not voting higher because it wasn't the right book for me.

[Highland G · Rating 4 out of 5]

Well... very impressed so far. A few minor art issues and the occasional unexplained change. Overall a very well told story about a half Japanese half Irish girl who has to discover her destiny and find her sister.
I really enjoy the dense feeling of everything matters and every panel has a reason to exist. Refreshing when compared to watered down American comics that are dragged out to cash in.

[Josh 谢翊杰 · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amazing! Action packed! I've gotten into quite a few graphic novels lately and it's great to find this one was more adult. Getting attached to some characters. The illustrations are incredible! The plot has me hooked. Jumping into volume 2 straight away. I have borrowed these from the library but I might buy them.

[Mee Too · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was the biggest rip of a mashup story plot 😂😂
Its like walking dead, red sonja, some random samurai stuff, some confusing historical facts (possibly)…😂😆

Im like wtf is happening throughout the whole book!! And the writer had the audacity to write a second vol 😂

Hey, i might just read it too. 🤷🏽

2.8🌟

[Relstuart · Rating 3 out of 5]

I saw something out there about this book existing originally in French and commented that I would love to see it in English. Great to see Dark Horse making this happen. I'd love to continue to see Dark Horse do thing like this in the future.

[Paul Taylor · Rating 5 out of 5]

Isabellae feels like an R-rated version of Usagi Yojimbo. I love the setting, the action, and the dialogue. The art is so sharp and exciting, particularly the fighting scenes. I am really excited to see the story unfold and have enjoyed the ride so far. Highly recommend!

[Johanna]

fantasy mashup of samurai and irish witches.

[Nicolas Hall · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love this comic! Beautiful art work, complicated and strong lead character and lots of wonderful world building!

[scarlettraces · Rating 2 out of 5]

(2.5)

[BreAnna (Bre'sBooks) · Rating 2 out of 5]

I wanted to like this, but there was too much mature content for my taste.

[Leslie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Has all your favourite questing fantasy tropes. Really enjoyed this volume. Will definitely be reading the next.

[Adriana · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5/4 stars... Enjoyed the art and story. Definitely enough to look forward to the next volume.

[RG · Rating 3 out of 5]

Combines Celtic and Japanese culture with magical fantasy style story. Cool action scenes but the plot is a little slow. Bit of a slog to get through the larger issues. The art was the highlight

[Stephanie Tournas · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ancient Japan, a ferocious warrior woman, lots of blood, and the search for a twin sister. Gorgeous art.

[amandita · Rating 3 out of 5]

2.5/5 rounded to 3/5

[May · Rating 2 out of 5]

At first glance, the story seems straightforward--a red-haired young woman (Isabellae) travelling the Japanese countryside to look for her sister and her giant captor while battling bandits and other dangers along the way. As she journeys, she picks up a couple of travel companions, a former wannabe-monk and a former bandit, who she spared at a previous deadly encounter. It is unclear why these fellows would want to follow her, except that she is an excellent fighter. Okay, fair enough. Maybe they both want adventure or they have nowhere else to go? Since neither of her companions seems to ask about her former life or offer any of their backstories, they serve as background noise. Therein lies one of the central problems of this story--the lack of an emotional connection between the hero and everyone else.

Every now and then, the author offers occasional glimpses into Isabellae's past, but these scenes leave more questions than answers and offer an even more confusing set of emotional relationships. For instance, Isabellae is portrayed as having a more loving relationship with her father than her mother and her sister, Siuko. There is no explanation as to why the mother would favour Siuko as her confidante over Isabellae or why Isabellae ran away from home to find her father when she knew her mother and sister were not strong enough to protect themselves. So many unanswered questions that are never properly addressed and simply swept under the rug for plot purposes.

This last point becomes even more apparent in the final scene where Isabellae finally catches up to Siuko and the two sisters have a standoff. Siuko was not a helpless maiden but somehow, she became a skilled sorceress and manipulator. Huh? Oh and if Siuko no longer carries hatred for Isabellae, why does she order her protector, the golem-giant, to kill Isabellae? So confusing...

So an interesting premise but the story falls short with its execution. Too many elements jumbled together without a clear explanation as to why the reader should care about the hero or any other character. Disappointing.

[Ryan · Rating 4 out of 5]

Bottom Line Up Front: Great artwork and great story. This graphic novel draws you in and entertains you for the duration of the story.

The Good:
1) The illustrations are magnificent.

2) Tells the story without pointless fillers.

The Bad:
1) Some characters weren't fleshed out as much as I would've liked.

2) The storyline is hurried at times and misses some potential character building.