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Scales & Scoundrels Definitive Ed. #1
Scales & Scoundrels Definitive Edition Book 1: Where Dragons Wander
TKO Studios presents "Scales & Where Dragons Wander" (Book 1 of 2) by Sebastian Girner
This gorgeous, multicultural fantasy adventure follows treasure hunter, Luvander, as she searches for gold and glory. As she dives into an epic journey along with a young prince, his stern bodyguard, and a plucky young dwarf, our heroes will discover a secret that will bring light to a world encroached upon by an ancient darkness.
This is the story of a girl who liked to wander...
It's hard to make an honest living in a land brimming with magic and mystery, and treasure hunter Luvander is tired of being a penniless adventurer. Ever in search of gold and glory, she sets off for a fabled dungeon "the Dragon's Maw", an ancient labyrinth, at the bottom of which slumber endless wealth...or certain doom!
A loner by trade, Luvander is forced to team up with a team of scraggly adventurers, each hoping to find a treasure of their own in the forbidden tomb. There is Prince Aki, of the Scarlet Sands Empire, anxious for first taste of adventure yet blind to the consequences. His royal Shadow and bodyguard, Koro, whose very honor hangs in the balance of her prince's success. And Dorma Iron, a stocky young dwarf whose journey will take her deeper into the darkness than she ever wished to tread.
For these scruffy heroes, what starts out as a road to riches becomes the first step on an epic journey to destiny, for Luvander holds a secret in her heart that will shatter the chains of fate, and bring light to a world encroached upon by an ancient darkness.
Scales & Where Dragons Wander includes all previously collected issues in this Definitive Edition, plus 250+ pages of new material .
The Festival of Life - Book 2 continues the adventure as Luvander sets off to find a way to break the chains of her cursed fate. Undeterred by danger, she travels to the frozen northern wastes of the Spine of Winter, to a reclusive monastery whose monks guard a secret entrance to the Dragon Dream, the shared plane of consciousness of all Urden, living or long passed. What she finds there will set her on a journey beyond where any mortals, and few dragons have tread, to uncover an ancient secret from the darkest corners of history. Continuing the epic journey of the cursed dragon princess and her fellow scoundrels in a world bent on undoing itself.
This gorgeous, multicultural fantasy adventure follows treasure hunter, Luvander, as she searches for gold and glory. As she dives into an epic journey along with a young prince, his stern bodyguard, and a plucky young dwarf, our heroes will discover a secret that will bring light to a world encroached upon by an ancient darkness.
This is the story of a girl who liked to wander...
It's hard to make an honest living in a land brimming with magic and mystery, and treasure hunter Luvander is tired of being a penniless adventurer. Ever in search of gold and glory, she sets off for a fabled dungeon "the Dragon's Maw", an ancient labyrinth, at the bottom of which slumber endless wealth...or certain doom!
A loner by trade, Luvander is forced to team up with a team of scraggly adventurers, each hoping to find a treasure of their own in the forbidden tomb. There is Prince Aki, of the Scarlet Sands Empire, anxious for first taste of adventure yet blind to the consequences. His royal Shadow and bodyguard, Koro, whose very honor hangs in the balance of her prince's success. And Dorma Iron, a stocky young dwarf whose journey will take her deeper into the darkness than she ever wished to tread.
For these scruffy heroes, what starts out as a road to riches becomes the first step on an epic journey to destiny, for Luvander holds a secret in her heart that will shatter the chains of fate, and bring light to a world encroached upon by an ancient darkness.
Scales & Where Dragons Wander includes all previously collected issues in this Definitive Edition, plus 250+ pages of new material .
The Festival of Life - Book 2 continues the adventure as Luvander sets off to find a way to break the chains of her cursed fate. Undeterred by danger, she travels to the frozen northern wastes of the Spine of Winter, to a reclusive monastery whose monks guard a secret entrance to the Dragon Dream, the shared plane of consciousness of all Urden, living or long passed. What she finds there will set her on a journey beyond where any mortals, and few dragons have tread, to uncover an ancient secret from the darkest corners of history. Continuing the epic journey of the cursed dragon princess and her fellow scoundrels in a world bent on undoing itself.
272 pages, Paperback
First published July 6, 2021
14 people are currently reading
2059 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 72 reviews
July 13, 2021
Begins as your standard sword and sorcery book topped with a twist of Studio Ghibli. Luvander is a penniless treasure hunter with a secret. She encounters a party of adventurers headed to an underground treasure and joins their party. Issue 7 ends with Luvander going off on her own for some single issue stories. I liked the adventuring. It had a quirkiness to it I enjoyed. The tone of the book changed with Luvander going off on her own in a new direction but that had it's own charm as well.
The art is sometimes frustrating, others quite good. I would like to see it more defined, especially faces. There are times when the characters look like Muppets. But the action scenes look great. So it's an odd mix.
The art is sometimes frustrating, others quite good. I would like to see it more defined, especially faces. There are times when the characters look like Muppets. But the action scenes look great. So it's an odd mix.
April 22, 2025
*Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for providing me with an eARC in exchange for an honest review*
“A heart so golden is a rare thing indeed.”
What started out as a fun adventure with some interesting characters and explorations lead onto a sprawling discovery of the charming Luvander and her place in the human world.
The plot may have began a little on the generic side, but the moment the side characters left and Luvander takes centre stage the deep exploration of not only her backstory but also her heart and soul would make surely anyone fall in love with her. She was really quite fantastic.
The art was fantastic, it wasn’t normally a style I’d gravitate towards but it worked so so well for this comic. The colours too were splendid and really brought to life the wondrous beauty of dragons, mermaids and humanity.
There was a very noticeable split in the book. Half the plot was setting up characters and forming friendships and the other half was focused solely on Luvander. Oddly enough, it worked very well like that and now I’m interested to see what all the side characters have been up to in Scales & Scoundrels Definitive Edition Book 2: The Festival of Life...
“A heart so golden is a rare thing indeed.”
What started out as a fun adventure with some interesting characters and explorations lead onto a sprawling discovery of the charming Luvander and her place in the human world.
The plot may have began a little on the generic side, but the moment the side characters left and Luvander takes centre stage the deep exploration of not only her backstory but also her heart and soul would make surely anyone fall in love with her. She was really quite fantastic.
The art was fantastic, it wasn’t normally a style I’d gravitate towards but it worked so so well for this comic. The colours too were splendid and really brought to life the wondrous beauty of dragons, mermaids and humanity.
There was a very noticeable split in the book. Half the plot was setting up characters and forming friendships and the other half was focused solely on Luvander. Oddly enough, it worked very well like that and now I’m interested to see what all the side characters have been up to in Scales & Scoundrels Definitive Edition Book 2: The Festival of Life...
August 31, 2021
From the very start Scales & Scoundrels Book 1: Where Dragons Wonder had me hooked. The story revolves around Luvander a treasure hunter who is hiding a secret. Part dungeons & dragons and part Indiana Jones, Luvander takes the reader on a roller coaster ride that won't let up till the end of the book. The cast of characters she runs into are as diverse and secretive as she is. The author adds quite a few laughs in all the right places, which adds greatly to all the action.
Well rounded characters that don't just sit on the page, but seem to leap right up at you with depth and plenty of attitude.
The story is strong, never losing momentum or confusing the ready. Chapter 9 has no dialog and yet it is so easy to see and understand what is happening and how it fits into the story.
The artwork (mind you i'm no artist or critique) is excellent, drawn in what seems to be as a fun style with plenty of bright colors that just (for me at least) added to the overall enjoyment of this graphic novel.
Although it is book 1 and the ending does promise more tales to come, this reads as a stand alone that can be enjoyed from start to finish.
Well rounded characters that don't just sit on the page, but seem to leap right up at you with depth and plenty of attitude.
The story is strong, never losing momentum or confusing the ready. Chapter 9 has no dialog and yet it is so easy to see and understand what is happening and how it fits into the story.
The artwork (mind you i'm no artist or critique) is excellent, drawn in what seems to be as a fun style with plenty of bright colors that just (for me at least) added to the overall enjoyment of this graphic novel.
Although it is book 1 and the ending does promise more tales to come, this reads as a stand alone that can be enjoyed from start to finish.
May 29, 2021
Give It A Chance
At first this seemed fairly generic, and even cartoony. The dialogue was serviceable, but the plot seemed like a standard quest deal, and the drawing was simple and spare. But wait.
Fairly quickly, the characters open up a bit and develop some heft. The quest also takes on some interesting twists and turns, and the tale is enriched by a fair number of engaging cameo characters. Even the drawing gets bigger and more creative as we get deeper into the underworld. Then, about halfway through, we get secrets and hints at a decent backstory for one of the heroes; we meet an excellently demonic monologuing villain and then a mysterious hunter who may or may not be a bad guy. At that point the tale switches into a much higher and more interesting gear before we hit the cliffhanger. This is, after all, only Book One, but it seems that an even better Book Two is right around the corner.
So, this wasn't super compelling at first, but it was an engaging enough hero story that had its heart in the right place. It just kept getting better, and sometimes that's exactly the sort of diversion you want.
(Please note that I received a free advance will-self-destruct-in-x-days Adobe Digital copy of this book without a review requirement, or any influence regarding review content should I choose to post a review. Apart from that I have no connection at all to either the author or the publisher of this book.)
At first this seemed fairly generic, and even cartoony. The dialogue was serviceable, but the plot seemed like a standard quest deal, and the drawing was simple and spare. But wait.
Fairly quickly, the characters open up a bit and develop some heft. The quest also takes on some interesting twists and turns, and the tale is enriched by a fair number of engaging cameo characters. Even the drawing gets bigger and more creative as we get deeper into the underworld. Then, about halfway through, we get secrets and hints at a decent backstory for one of the heroes; we meet an excellently demonic monologuing villain and then a mysterious hunter who may or may not be a bad guy. At that point the tale switches into a much higher and more interesting gear before we hit the cliffhanger. This is, after all, only Book One, but it seems that an even better Book Two is right around the corner.
So, this wasn't super compelling at first, but it was an engaging enough hero story that had its heart in the right place. It just kept getting better, and sometimes that's exactly the sort of diversion you want.
(Please note that I received a free advance will-self-destruct-in-x-days Adobe Digital copy of this book without a review requirement, or any influence regarding review content should I choose to post a review. Apart from that I have no connection at all to either the author or the publisher of this book.)
July 13, 2021
I was committed to Scales & Scoundrels when I found out it used to be published at Image Comics but got cancelled. Here we've gotten another Dungeons & Dragons type of story for an all-ages audiences. It's one that benefits from long-form storytelling in graphic novels, hence why it changed publishers; all-ages graphic novels need to be sold not just in comic stores but general book stores.
At first glance it feels generic with a band of adventurers and the twists and turns along the way. But the intensity and motivations feel compelling for each adventurer and readers get a sense in what each character wants and needs. It can only get better with the second trade that went incomplete from the Image days.
At first glance it feels generic with a band of adventurers and the twists and turns along the way. But the intensity and motivations feel compelling for each adventurer and readers get a sense in what each character wants and needs. It can only get better with the second trade that went incomplete from the Image days.
July 10, 2021
Empieza como la típica partida de un juego de rol de fantasía, con una pelea en una taverna por hacer trampas en el juego. Nuestra protagonista, Luvander, es una aventurera con los bolsillos vacíos que sólo se preocupa por su próxima comida mientras va persiguiendo tesoros y riquezas, un espíritu libre... tras algunos percances debe huir de la ciudad, tras lo que se encuentra con los que serán sus compañeros de aventuras, el joven príncipe Akisbjorne, su guardaespaldas Koro y la exploradora enana Dorma. Juntos partirán hacia una antigua ciudad subterranea en la que esperan encontrar grandes tesoros.
Lo que distingue este cómic de otros similares es su tono ligero y simpático, es una historia para todos los públicos repleta de aventura, humor y fantasía, los personajes no tienen gran profundidad pero están muy bien caracterizados y diseñados y tienen personalidades muy definidas. Este tomo está compuesto por 10 números, de los cuales los 7 primeros forman un arco de larga duración, mientras que los 3 últimos son aventuras individuales de Luvander en solitario, la historia larga está muy bien, pero casi prefiero las historias cortas, no son números de relleno, sino que están pensados para perfilar el trasfondo y personalidad de Luvander, al tiempo que se potencia la construcción del mundo.
El dibujo es sencillo y un poco ingenuo, pero no falta detalle y las expresiones y la acción se representan con maestría. un buen cómic que te atrapa y se lee de una sentada.
Lo que distingue este cómic de otros similares es su tono ligero y simpático, es una historia para todos los públicos repleta de aventura, humor y fantasía, los personajes no tienen gran profundidad pero están muy bien caracterizados y diseñados y tienen personalidades muy definidas. Este tomo está compuesto por 10 números, de los cuales los 7 primeros forman un arco de larga duración, mientras que los 3 últimos son aventuras individuales de Luvander en solitario, la historia larga está muy bien, pero casi prefiero las historias cortas, no son números de relleno, sino que están pensados para perfilar el trasfondo y personalidad de Luvander, al tiempo que se potencia la construcción del mundo.
El dibujo es sencillo y un poco ingenuo, pero no falta detalle y las expresiones y la acción se representan con maestría. un buen cómic que te atrapa y se lee de una sentada.
April 18, 2023
Whoa, hook line & sinker. Engaging and colourful and awesome world building.
July 2, 2021
Series: Vol. 1 (#1-10)
Rating: 3 stars - I liked it
Well this was a fascinating story filled with adventure, magic, and treasure. I really enjoyed all the characters and how they met, especially since they are all very tough women protecting a smart but kind of weak Prince Aki. Luvander was a fascinating character and I really can’t wait to learn more about her in the next volume.
*ARC provided by Netgalley for an honest review.*
You can also find my reviews at Red-Haired Ash Reads.
Rating: 3 stars - I liked it
Well this was a fascinating story filled with adventure, magic, and treasure. I really enjoyed all the characters and how they met, especially since they are all very tough women protecting a smart but kind of weak Prince Aki. Luvander was a fascinating character and I really can’t wait to learn more about her in the next volume.
*ARC provided by Netgalley for an honest review.*
You can also find my reviews at Red-Haired Ash Reads.
May 18, 2021
Thank you to NetGalley, Sebastian Girner, and TKO Studios for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
It took me about the first of six issues to really get into this series, but once it picks up, the characters are interesting and conflicted, and the adventure is classic and fun.
Lu is a scoundrel, causing a lot of problems for people in villages. She doesn't have a coin to her name, but it is hinted early on that she is a dragon, she just hides her identity. When she saves a prince, his guard, and their escort from a group of scoundrels, Lu joins them as they are searching for an ancient dragon treasure that may be no more than a myth. Lu herself wants to go visit her home of origin, the place where dragons once resided.
Many challenges present themselves to the group along the way, including someone who seems to be hunting Lu and will no give up until she is dead.
This is a fun adventure story that starts off with some Dungeons and Dragons vibes, but quickly transforms into a fantastic adventure quest that readers of all ages will enjoy.
It took me about the first of six issues to really get into this series, but once it picks up, the characters are interesting and conflicted, and the adventure is classic and fun.
Lu is a scoundrel, causing a lot of problems for people in villages. She doesn't have a coin to her name, but it is hinted early on that she is a dragon, she just hides her identity. When she saves a prince, his guard, and their escort from a group of scoundrels, Lu joins them as they are searching for an ancient dragon treasure that may be no more than a myth. Lu herself wants to go visit her home of origin, the place where dragons once resided.
Many challenges present themselves to the group along the way, including someone who seems to be hunting Lu and will no give up until she is dead.
This is a fun adventure story that starts off with some Dungeons and Dragons vibes, but quickly transforms into a fantastic adventure quest that readers of all ages will enjoy.
August 2, 2021
*This review is bad in a sample which includes chapters 1 - 6. I received it in exchange for an honest review*
This story was okay. It's not bad, but I didn't feel that it was great.
I felt the strongest thing I disliked is a bit of personal preference, which is how characters that "know all the right answers", even when they don't, but act even a bit superior and everything works out... has to have the "right" personality. I did not feel Lu had it.
I didn't hate her, I just didn't love her and she's the main character.
Yes she's fun, carefree, living by the seat of her pants and everything. Just, something was off.
That said, the rag-tag group of adventure groups our story becomes. Between Prince Aki, his guardian Koro, a dwarf guide Dorma, and our troublemaker Lu, it sounds like a recipe for adventure. Hands down Dorma to be my favourite character, she is fabulous.
I was lucky enough to be approved for both book 1 and 2 and plan on reading book 2 very soon, I'm curious to see how things continue.
**Thank you to TKO Studios and NetGalley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review. **
This story was okay. It's not bad, but I didn't feel that it was great.
I felt the strongest thing I disliked is a bit of personal preference, which is how characters that "know all the right answers", even when they don't, but act even a bit superior and everything works out... has to have the "right" personality. I did not feel Lu had it.
I didn't hate her, I just didn't love her and she's the main character.
Yes she's fun, carefree, living by the seat of her pants and everything. Just, something was off.
That said, the rag-tag group of adventure groups our story becomes. Between Prince Aki, his guardian Koro, a dwarf guide Dorma, and our troublemaker Lu, it sounds like a recipe for adventure. Hands down Dorma to be my favourite character, she is fabulous.
I was lucky enough to be approved for both book 1 and 2 and plan on reading book 2 very soon, I'm curious to see how things continue.
**Thank you to TKO Studios and NetGalley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review. **
May 17, 2021
This was a surprisingly gripping story. I'm never sure with graphic novels how good they'll actually be. Some are too childish, others rely too much on graphic content for shock and awe, but this was perfect.
The premise sets up a large fantastical world with varying creatures and factions. The main characters all have super varied backstories, though none of them are overly unique, but it works really well. The characters mesh really well.
There's an undercurrent of runaway princess/thief plot with a good ole treasure hunt and proving oneself. Totally recommend for people wanting a solid read, and I cannot wait to continue.
The premise sets up a large fantastical world with varying creatures and factions. The main characters all have super varied backstories, though none of them are overly unique, but it works really well. The characters mesh really well.
There's an undercurrent of runaway princess/thief plot with a good ole treasure hunt and proving oneself. Totally recommend for people wanting a solid read, and I cannot wait to continue.
August 5, 2021
What starts out as Dungeons & Dragons-like party of adventures begins to morph into a greater story of dragons and demons, and the one rogue who wanders the world too good for the leagues of evil but too supernatural for the ordinary people. I was surprised how invested I was by the end of the first arc, and when the back half of the book morphed into individual adventures of Lu I was hooked. Galaad's art is great, and shows it's anime and Ghibli influences clearly. Sometimes the lettering and action can be difficult to follow but the characters are dynamic and animated, which really draws me into the fantasy realm ready to adventure.
December 5, 2024
Rating: 4* of five
The Publisher Says: This gorgeous, multicultural fantasy adventure follows treasure hunter, Luvander, as she searches for gold and glory. As she dives into an epic journey along with a young prince, his stern bodyguard, and a plucky young dwarf, our heroes will discover a secret that will bring light to a world encroached upon by an ancient darkness.
This is the story of a girl who liked to wander...
It's hard to make an honest living in a land brimming with magic and mystery, and treasure hunter Luvander is tired of being a penniless adventurer. Ever in search of gold and glory, she sets off for a fabled dungeon "the Dragon's Maw", an ancient labyrinth, at the bottom of which slumber endless wealth...or certain doom!
A loner by trade, Luvander is forced to team up with a team of scraggly adventurers, each hoping to find a treasure of their own in the forbidden tomb. There is Prince Aki, of the Scarlet Sands Empire, anxious for first taste of adventure yet blind to the consequences. His royal Shadow and bodyguard, Koro, whose very honor hangs in the balance of her prince's success. And Dorma Iron, a stocky young dwarf whose journey will take her deeper into the darkness than she ever wished to tread.
For these scruffy heroes, what starts out as a road to riches becomes the first step on an epic journey to destiny, for Luvander holds a secret in her heart that will shatter the chains of fate, and bring light to a world encroached upon by an ancient darkness.
I RECEIVED A DRC FROM THE PUBLISHER VIA EDELWEISS+. THANK YOU.
My Review: Classic, high-fantasy story gender-flipped. It's still heteronormative, but a female who rescues a prince, and has a deep, dark Secret Identity...that's a mild breeze of fresh air in a genre I'm not wild about.
It has all the necessary Dungeons & Dragons elements for your gamer giftee, it's got artwork I sat and looked at even after I was done reading the simple story, and it sends a message I think we need a lot more of: males can be weak, and can need help and protection, without being worthless; females can be powerful protectors with hidden depths and leadership qualities. All of this wrapped in a pretty decently nuanced plot, with actual above-average character building that unfolds as the story progresses, made this a four-star read. It is, you'll note, the first of two books. Start here, and if gifting, definitely give both at the same time.
the dramatis personae
the action begins
drama!
specialness revealed
tension mounts
what's next?
I think this is a fair sampling of the illustration style. It takes you through the register changes in its use of overarching color pallette. It's got enough detail in the character design to make the faces legible to younger (11 and older, not my idea of suitable for the early chapter-book set) readers. It does not stint on action, nor ignore dialogue.
It's a solid series that I'm glad found a new home for ongoing adventures.
August 4, 2021
This is a spoiler free review.
Scales & Scoundrels Book 1: Where Dragons Wander is an awesome book. I really enjoyed reading this novel. It's a combination of the The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings along with Dungeons and Dragons. If you enjoy either genre you will love this awesome book.
Scales & Scoundrels Book 1: Where Dragons Wander features a group of very different characters who go on an epic adventure and journey together to find the Dragon’s Maw. You need to read the book to find out what shiny and sparkly things a dragon has in its maw… Each character in this fantastic book is so unique and has a very distinct personality. Luvander is a treasure hunter who's always ready to find her next big score. She also has a fun and exciting secret we learn more about as the story progresses. Dorma is a dwarf who is afraid of the dark. Could there be a more ironic character trait for a dwarf to have than that?!? Aki is a young prince who is on his sacred journey. Koro is his faithful protector and his loyal shadow. She's awesome and is not someone you want to cross. Koro would fit in perfectly with the Black Panther’s body guards in Wakanda.
This graphic novel is written so well. The story flows and has a great pace the entire length of the book. As we read this entertaining graphic novel we learn so much about each character as they grow and change during the journey. I look forward to reading Scales & Scoundrels Book 2 to see what happens next!
One of the things I really enjoyed about Scales & Scoundrels Book 1: Where Dragons Wander is the similarities this book shares with The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings. The main similarities start with all three books have a group of very different characters who set off on a journey together, there is a cave or a mountain that is full of treasure that was once controlled by dwarves that now has a dragon living it, and many beautiful images that look so much like J.R.R. Tolkien’s books. In particular when our heroes are sitting outside the Dragon’s Maw. The image of them camping outside a giant door reminds me so much of the giant door outside of the Lonely Mountain in The Hobbit and also the giant door outside of the Mines of Moria in The Fellowship of the Ring. There are also many more images that remind me of J.R.R. Tolkien’s work, when you read Scales & Scoundrels Book 1: Where Dragons Wander see if any of the artwork in this book reminds you of any stories you’ve read.
Lastly the artwork in this graphic novel is beautiful. There are times where the colors are really bright and vibrant and other times where there is no color at all like when our heroes are in a cave surrounded by total darkness. I enjoyed the contrasting settings and colors throughout the book.
I highly recommend reading Scales & Scoundrels Book 1: Where Dragons Wander. I found myself not being able to put down the graphic novel. I really liked the character Dorma and how we got to learn more about her family and other dwarves. I also liked Luvander and how we get to see is if she really does only care about treasure.
When you want to escape to a world of fantasy, dragons, dwarves, scoundrels, swords and sorcery please make sure you give this book a try. I’m sure you’ll enjoy it as much as I did.
Stay awesome and keep reading!
Scales & Scoundrels Book 1: Where Dragons Wander
Creative Team:
Written by Sebastian Girner
Art by Galaad
Lettering and Design by Jeff Powell
Scales & Scoundrels Book 1: Where Dragons Wander is an awesome book. I really enjoyed reading this novel. It's a combination of the The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings along with Dungeons and Dragons. If you enjoy either genre you will love this awesome book.
Scales & Scoundrels Book 1: Where Dragons Wander features a group of very different characters who go on an epic adventure and journey together to find the Dragon’s Maw. You need to read the book to find out what shiny and sparkly things a dragon has in its maw… Each character in this fantastic book is so unique and has a very distinct personality. Luvander is a treasure hunter who's always ready to find her next big score. She also has a fun and exciting secret we learn more about as the story progresses. Dorma is a dwarf who is afraid of the dark. Could there be a more ironic character trait for a dwarf to have than that?!? Aki is a young prince who is on his sacred journey. Koro is his faithful protector and his loyal shadow. She's awesome and is not someone you want to cross. Koro would fit in perfectly with the Black Panther’s body guards in Wakanda.
This graphic novel is written so well. The story flows and has a great pace the entire length of the book. As we read this entertaining graphic novel we learn so much about each character as they grow and change during the journey. I look forward to reading Scales & Scoundrels Book 2 to see what happens next!
One of the things I really enjoyed about Scales & Scoundrels Book 1: Where Dragons Wander is the similarities this book shares with The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings. The main similarities start with all three books have a group of very different characters who set off on a journey together, there is a cave or a mountain that is full of treasure that was once controlled by dwarves that now has a dragon living it, and many beautiful images that look so much like J.R.R. Tolkien’s books. In particular when our heroes are sitting outside the Dragon’s Maw. The image of them camping outside a giant door reminds me so much of the giant door outside of the Lonely Mountain in The Hobbit and also the giant door outside of the Mines of Moria in The Fellowship of the Ring. There are also many more images that remind me of J.R.R. Tolkien’s work, when you read Scales & Scoundrels Book 1: Where Dragons Wander see if any of the artwork in this book reminds you of any stories you’ve read.
Lastly the artwork in this graphic novel is beautiful. There are times where the colors are really bright and vibrant and other times where there is no color at all like when our heroes are in a cave surrounded by total darkness. I enjoyed the contrasting settings and colors throughout the book.
I highly recommend reading Scales & Scoundrels Book 1: Where Dragons Wander. I found myself not being able to put down the graphic novel. I really liked the character Dorma and how we got to learn more about her family and other dwarves. I also liked Luvander and how we get to see is if she really does only care about treasure.
When you want to escape to a world of fantasy, dragons, dwarves, scoundrels, swords and sorcery please make sure you give this book a try. I’m sure you’ll enjoy it as much as I did.
Stay awesome and keep reading!
Scales & Scoundrels Book 1: Where Dragons Wander
Creative Team:
Written by Sebastian Girner
Art by Galaad
Lettering and Design by Jeff Powell
July 14, 2021
Scales & Scoundrels Definitive Edition, Book 1 and 2, by Sebastian Girner and Galaad are graphic novels currently schedule for release on July 6 2021. This a a new, revised and expanded definitive edition of the all ages comic.
This multicultural fantasy adventure follows young treasure hunter Luvander in her search for gold and glory. Along with her companions—a prince, his stern bodyguard, and a plucky young dwarf—Lu dives into an epic journey and discovers a secret that will bring light to a world encroached upon by an ancient darkness. Book 1: Where Dragons Wander contains material previously collected in the Image Comics edition of Scales & Scoundrels Vol. 1 & 2, with completely reworked artwork. Lu’s adventure continues in Book 2: The Festival of Life, with more than 250 pages of original content. I only had access to a sneak peek of these volumes, so my review is only on the artwork and story I had access to.
I have never before read Scales & Scoundrels so my review is based on looking at the previews of these two volumes with no nostalgia or prior knowledge of the story. I thought the idea and story was well done with quality artwork I thought the story was easy to follow, with some predictability, and the artwork matched the story well. The story starts fairly slowly, a standard fantasy adventure, but the characters and story to get more depth as the story continues. The art was not my favorite style, but we all have different tastes and I think it was a good match to the story. I think young fantasy fans and players of Dungeons and Dragons- and similar games- will enjoy this the most. I did not wow me, but I do wish that I would have discovered the comics when they were first release as I think I would have enjoyed them more when I was younger and not so many graphic novels of this genre had already pass through my hands.
This multicultural fantasy adventure follows young treasure hunter Luvander in her search for gold and glory. Along with her companions—a prince, his stern bodyguard, and a plucky young dwarf—Lu dives into an epic journey and discovers a secret that will bring light to a world encroached upon by an ancient darkness. Book 1: Where Dragons Wander contains material previously collected in the Image Comics edition of Scales & Scoundrels Vol. 1 & 2, with completely reworked artwork. Lu’s adventure continues in Book 2: The Festival of Life, with more than 250 pages of original content. I only had access to a sneak peek of these volumes, so my review is only on the artwork and story I had access to.
I have never before read Scales & Scoundrels so my review is based on looking at the previews of these two volumes with no nostalgia or prior knowledge of the story. I thought the idea and story was well done with quality artwork I thought the story was easy to follow, with some predictability, and the artwork matched the story well. The story starts fairly slowly, a standard fantasy adventure, but the characters and story to get more depth as the story continues. The art was not my favorite style, but we all have different tastes and I think it was a good match to the story. I think young fantasy fans and players of Dungeons and Dragons- and similar games- will enjoy this the most. I did not wow me, but I do wish that I would have discovered the comics when they were first release as I think I would have enjoyed them more when I was younger and not so many graphic novels of this genre had already pass through my hands.
August 2, 2021
I received a digital copy of this book in exchange for an honest review on Netgalley. Thank you!
An adventurer runs into and joins forces with a group of three other adventurers trying to descend into a deep dungeon that supposedly has amazing treasure at the bottom. Adventure ensues.
The setting and plot is pretty standard DND-like fare; it was a bit more tropey than I expected, seeing as the series started in 2017. There's not much to make it stand out in either category, although I think they both served their purpose of creating an adventure.
For characters, the book focuses on Luvander, a lone adventure who loves games and lacks manners, as well as the three companions she meets, those being the naïve prince Aki, his stoic bodyguard Koro, and the timid dwarf girl Dorma. There's a little backstory and depth to each of them, but not much. Again, they're fine.
In terms of art style, this book goes for a cell-shaded look with simple but appealing character designs. The colors were fine and the backgrounds were good. My only real issue with it is that each character's mouth is too far up. It's only slightly too far up, but I kept noticing it and getting annoyed. Otherwise the art style works.
Despite the title, there are no actual dragons here. One is shown in Luvander's dreams, but that's about it. Luvander does have some dragon-like traits, though, and is hinted at having some history with the dragons.
Overall this whole book was just fine: good but not amazing in anything. I enjoyed it, but I'm not sure why you would read this over one of the more popular DND-inspired books or comics out there.
An adventurer runs into and joins forces with a group of three other adventurers trying to descend into a deep dungeon that supposedly has amazing treasure at the bottom. Adventure ensues.
The setting and plot is pretty standard DND-like fare; it was a bit more tropey than I expected, seeing as the series started in 2017. There's not much to make it stand out in either category, although I think they both served their purpose of creating an adventure.
For characters, the book focuses on Luvander, a lone adventure who loves games and lacks manners, as well as the three companions she meets, those being the naïve prince Aki, his stoic bodyguard Koro, and the timid dwarf girl Dorma. There's a little backstory and depth to each of them, but not much. Again, they're fine.
In terms of art style, this book goes for a cell-shaded look with simple but appealing character designs. The colors were fine and the backgrounds were good. My only real issue with it is that each character's mouth is too far up. It's only slightly too far up, but I kept noticing it and getting annoyed. Otherwise the art style works.
Despite the title, there are no actual dragons here. One is shown in Luvander's dreams, but that's about it. Luvander does have some dragon-like traits, though, and is hinted at having some history with the dragons.
Overall this whole book was just fine: good but not amazing in anything. I enjoyed it, but I'm not sure why you would read this over one of the more popular DND-inspired books or comics out there.
December 13, 2021
Luvander finds herself evading pursuers, and inadvertently joining a Prince, his guard, and guide on a journey into an ancient mountain fortress rumored to hold ancient treasure. Their journey leads in unexpected directions while several forces are out to stop them. After that quest comes to an end, readers travel with Lu on some of her other adventures through a war-torn country, helping a man with a mermaid problem (and vice versa), and exploring her past.
I had previously read the greatly abbreviated version of the first story in this. There are definitely parts that were not there before, and they add complexity to the tale. I also hadn't known till now how that story resolved (So glad this came out!). I really enjoyed the other stories about the war-torn country that revealed history with the elves, and the one that explores Lu's past. They both really add a lot to the world-building and Lu's character. Recommended to fantasy quest adventure fans.
Notes on content: No language issues that I remember. No sexual content. In the mermaid one Lu isn't wearing much under water, but strategic items cover her up sufficiently in every panel. There's a few battles, some of which result in deaths or injuries. A little blood is shown, though most injuries/fatalities are more just implied than shown in the illustrations.
I had previously read the greatly abbreviated version of the first story in this. There are definitely parts that were not there before, and they add complexity to the tale. I also hadn't known till now how that story resolved (So glad this came out!). I really enjoyed the other stories about the war-torn country that revealed history with the elves, and the one that explores Lu's past. They both really add a lot to the world-building and Lu's character. Recommended to fantasy quest adventure fans.
Notes on content: No language issues that I remember. No sexual content. In the mermaid one Lu isn't wearing much under water, but strategic items cover her up sufficiently in every panel. There's a few battles, some of which result in deaths or injuries. A little blood is shown, though most injuries/fatalities are more just implied than shown in the illustrations.
May 25, 2021
The copy I've read is a special peek preview of Scales & Scoundrels Book 1.
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This story follows:
Luvander -- Treasure Hunter, Adventure Seeker, and Life Saver.
Aki -- Prince of The Scarlet Sands, who is on his sacred journey
Koro -- Protector of the prince, who is his loyal shadow
Dorma -- Dwarven guide, who is afraid of the dark
They are all on adventure to find the myth Dalden Laria, "The Hall of Dreaming Treasures". Will the group find this mysterious Dalden Laria? No other adventurers have come back from the journey. Luvander also seems to have some secrets of her own, that may cause problems for the group. What could she be hiding?
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I cannot wait to read more of this series. I am very interested just from this peek preview. I love the characters, the world, and the plot. This was definitely a page turner for me. The artwork is amazing as well!
Thank you to NetGalley and TKO Studios for the ARC
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
This story follows:
Luvander -- Treasure Hunter, Adventure Seeker, and Life Saver.
Aki -- Prince of The Scarlet Sands, who is on his sacred journey
Koro -- Protector of the prince, who is his loyal shadow
Dorma -- Dwarven guide, who is afraid of the dark
They are all on adventure to find the myth Dalden Laria, "The Hall of Dreaming Treasures". Will the group find this mysterious Dalden Laria? No other adventurers have come back from the journey. Luvander also seems to have some secrets of her own, that may cause problems for the group. What could she be hiding?
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
I cannot wait to read more of this series. I am very interested just from this peek preview. I love the characters, the world, and the plot. This was definitely a page turner for me. The artwork is amazing as well!
Thank you to NetGalley and TKO Studios for the ARC
May 25, 2021
This graphic novel contains some of the usual tropes, a group of friends on a quest, a thief, a prince and his protector, and a warrior. Elves, dwarves, goblins, and dragons, all creatures I love! I also like the fact that three of the main characters are women.
Lu, our protagonist is a scoundrel, so it appears. There is more to her and we learn as the story develops that first appearances can be deceptive. When she meets up with the rest of the little group chaos ensues.
The author does a great job with the flow of the story and keeping you interested in what is coming up next. The artwork is ok, I didn't really care for the way the characters were drawn, but the background was beautiful.
I recommend this to readers of all ages, it was a fun break between huge fantasy tomes I usually read.
Thank you to Netgalley and the author, Sebastian Girner, for the opportunity to read and review this graphic novel.
Lu, our protagonist is a scoundrel, so it appears. There is more to her and we learn as the story develops that first appearances can be deceptive. When she meets up with the rest of the little group chaos ensues.
The author does a great job with the flow of the story and keeping you interested in what is coming up next. The artwork is ok, I didn't really care for the way the characters were drawn, but the background was beautiful.
I recommend this to readers of all ages, it was a fun break between huge fantasy tomes I usually read.
Thank you to Netgalley and the author, Sebastian Girner, for the opportunity to read and review this graphic novel.
June 1, 2021
*NetGalley eARC review*
As a Dungeons and Dragons player, I just HAD to read this graphic novel. Like any good campaign, our main character, Luvander, starts in a pub gambling for some gold. There's a play gone awry, a chase, and here starts the group of adventurers running aw- er...galivanting down the road off to find the lost treasure of Dalden Laria. I feel the adventure starts a little rough but when the group is finally in the thick of things, the story moves quickly. I reached the end of the novel too soon.
The book follows each character separately very nicely. We are told backstory, deepest desires, and even more secrets. There are a slew of wonderfully written cameo characters that contribute to the story. The villain reminded me of something along the lines of a 7 Deadly Sins inspired demon. The artwork gets more and more detailed as the story goes on. Overall I enjoyed the adventure very much and cannot wait for the next one!
As a Dungeons and Dragons player, I just HAD to read this graphic novel. Like any good campaign, our main character, Luvander, starts in a pub gambling for some gold. There's a play gone awry, a chase, and here starts the group of adventurers running aw- er...galivanting down the road off to find the lost treasure of Dalden Laria. I feel the adventure starts a little rough but when the group is finally in the thick of things, the story moves quickly. I reached the end of the novel too soon.
The book follows each character separately very nicely. We are told backstory, deepest desires, and even more secrets. There are a slew of wonderfully written cameo characters that contribute to the story. The villain reminded me of something along the lines of a 7 Deadly Sins inspired demon. The artwork gets more and more detailed as the story goes on. Overall I enjoyed the adventure very much and cannot wait for the next one!
July 15, 2021
I originally read the first volume of this book last year, but am reading it again for a kids' book club I'm running this week. I still really enjoyed the first five issues, but now that I'm seeing it in context with the following issues 6 through 10, I have more problems. The fantasy and D&D-related elements still hit very well, and the humor is great. The colors are bright and engaging, and Lu as a character is a lot of fun.
The original volume 1 included the first five issues, though I now know that issue six is the real conclusion to the first story arc. After that, the stories are random and oddly paced. There's very little connection between Lu's wanderings and the people she crosses paths with. She's still a great character, which luckily holds the stories together, but only just. The rest of the original three characters are no where to be seen. It felt a lot like the creators had a good idea for six issues and then started winging it.
The original volume 1 included the first five issues, though I now know that issue six is the real conclusion to the first story arc. After that, the stories are random and oddly paced. There's very little connection between Lu's wanderings and the people she crosses paths with. She's still a great character, which luckily holds the stories together, but only just. The rest of the original three characters are no where to be seen. It felt a lot like the creators had a good idea for six issues and then started winging it.
September 2, 2021
'Scales & Scoundrels Definitive Edition Book 1: Where Dragons Wander' by Sebastian Girner with art by Galaad is a graphic novel about young woman in search of treasure who may not be who she seems to be.
Luvander lives in a town where she is just trying to make a living and find a bit of treasure. She sets off for the fabled 'Dragon's Maw' and finds herself in the company of a future royal and his bodyguard, and a young dwarf looking for her brother. Luvander seems nearly indestructible and that's because she is a dragon.
In the 280 pages here, there are a series of stories, but the first one is the longest.
I really liked the fun, bold main character and the world that I got to see. The character designs are fun and liked the variety of stories.
I received a review copy of this graphic novel from TKO Studios and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you for allowing me to review this graphic novel.
Luvander lives in a town where she is just trying to make a living and find a bit of treasure. She sets off for the fabled 'Dragon's Maw' and finds herself in the company of a future royal and his bodyguard, and a young dwarf looking for her brother. Luvander seems nearly indestructible and that's because she is a dragon.
In the 280 pages here, there are a series of stories, but the first one is the longest.
I really liked the fun, bold main character and the world that I got to see. The character designs are fun and liked the variety of stories.
I received a review copy of this graphic novel from TKO Studios and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you for allowing me to review this graphic novel.
June 14, 2021
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I liked it so much. I liked everything about this story or the artwork, it was what I was looking for as a fantasy graphic novel. There are all the best elements for an imaginative world such as: magic, adventures with fantasic creatures "DRAGON", dwarves, a hidden treasure/secrets/identity, fights,..etc. Our main female character, Luvender, is funny with some mystery and secrects about her story, she is strong and just wants to have a good meal and some gold which will lead her to a number of misadventures.
I was happy for this discovery because I've never heard about this comic book. The artwork is one style that I love and works greatly with the story. I'm looking for the next book and I will be happy to follow the adventures of this crazy odd company.
I liked it so much. I liked everything about this story or the artwork, it was what I was looking for as a fantasy graphic novel. There are all the best elements for an imaginative world such as: magic, adventures with fantasic creatures "DRAGON", dwarves, a hidden treasure/secrets/identity, fights,..etc. Our main female character, Luvender, is funny with some mystery and secrects about her story, she is strong and just wants to have a good meal and some gold which will lead her to a number of misadventures.
I was happy for this discovery because I've never heard about this comic book. The artwork is one style that I love and works greatly with the story. I'm looking for the next book and I will be happy to follow the adventures of this crazy odd company.
June 7, 2021
I received an eARC in return for an honest review of this graphic novel; thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity.
What a delightful and classic fantasy adventure story! If you love D&D and stories of fantasy adventure, illustrated beautifully, then this one is for you.
I had not previously heard of this series previously but it was quite a fun romp. The story has great character and world building, the imagery enhances the story properly and there’s a fantastic element of mystery that really makes you want to continue the journey with these characters.
Recommend if you enjoy diverse fantasy with strong female characters, found family, and a protagonist with lots of issues and secrets.
What a delightful and classic fantasy adventure story! If you love D&D and stories of fantasy adventure, illustrated beautifully, then this one is for you.
I had not previously heard of this series previously but it was quite a fun romp. The story has great character and world building, the imagery enhances the story properly and there’s a fantastic element of mystery that really makes you want to continue the journey with these characters.
Recommend if you enjoy diverse fantasy with strong female characters, found family, and a protagonist with lots of issues and secrets.
June 9, 2021
Thank you Netgalley and TKO Studios for the chance to review this wild adventure ride graphic novel.
Readers are first introduced to Luvander a rambunctious treasure hunter sitting at a table playing cards. Her optimistic manner and nonchalant manner make her an easy character to fall in love with. I love the way the graphic is drawn, bright colors in a fanatical world surrounded by myths and legends of a dragon.
Lu's journey and at times crazy involvement in other's people business, gets her into more than what she originally plans. However I am interested in seeing who and what exactly Lu is; her crazy strength and light hearted personality makes the adventure worthy following. Definitely looking forward to reading more of Lu's story and what she may be running from.
Readers are first introduced to Luvander a rambunctious treasure hunter sitting at a table playing cards. Her optimistic manner and nonchalant manner make her an easy character to fall in love with. I love the way the graphic is drawn, bright colors in a fanatical world surrounded by myths and legends of a dragon.
Lu's journey and at times crazy involvement in other's people business, gets her into more than what she originally plans. However I am interested in seeing who and what exactly Lu is; her crazy strength and light hearted personality makes the adventure worthy following. Definitely looking forward to reading more of Lu's story and what she may be running from.
May 18, 2021
I got this as an ARC from NetGalley and I was pretty excited because I love comics and I love dragons, so the title and genre caught my eye.
Unfortunately, I was disappointed.
I only got about halfway through this before I lost total interest. I didn't find any of the characters particularly interesting and, for me, characters are the most important part of a story. If I'm not interested in the character's journey or I don't like them, then I'm probably not going to be able to get into it.
Also, if a story can't grab me 50% of the way through, then it's never going to grab me.
This book just wasn't for me.
Unfortunately, I was disappointed.
I only got about halfway through this before I lost total interest. I didn't find any of the characters particularly interesting and, for me, characters are the most important part of a story. If I'm not interested in the character's journey or I don't like them, then I'm probably not going to be able to get into it.
Also, if a story can't grab me 50% of the way through, then it's never going to grab me.
This book just wasn't for me.
July 20, 2021
Scales and Scoundrels is an all age comic that follows a young adventurer who is on the hunt for gold and glory. It did take me a bit to get into the story, but I think my students will be instantly hooked. The art is perfect for an all ages comic. It isn't too detailed to distract your younger readers, but there is enough detail your older readers won't be bored. I really enjoyed the story, while it was slow in the beginning I got to the last page of the review copy and was so disappointed there wasn't more. I can't wait to dive in to volume 2.
Creative Team:
Written by Sebastian Girner
Art by Galaad
Lettering and Design by Jeff Powell
Creative Team:
Written by Sebastian Girner
Art by Galaad
Lettering and Design by Jeff Powell
August 13, 2022
In discovering the Definitive Edition of this series, I was looking forward to finally being able to read more of it, since I never could find the third volume or beyond. Sadly, this volume contains only the first two volumes that I had read before, but it is a good review of the story so far, before I can get ahold of the next volume and the continuation of the story.
One thing that is odd: this book feels thicker than the first two books alone, especially as there is little extra material, just a few pages of concept art; perhaps it is a difference in the paper used, or I am just mistaken in my assessment.
One thing that is odd: this book feels thicker than the first two books alone, especially as there is little extra material, just a few pages of concept art; perhaps it is a difference in the paper used, or I am just mistaken in my assessment.
August 1, 2021
When I began reading Scales and Scoundrels I had a hard time getting into it, it felt like other stories revolving around a quirky main protagonist doing wacky things, but thankfully that all changed as Luvanna meets her soon to be traveling partners. They added more to the story and as more details became clear of everyone’s motivation everything came together nicely. What started as a middling adventure truly ended with some heart and I found myself truly wanting to see how it ended. Would the dwarf woman find closure? Would the prince and his guard complete their rite of passage? Would Luvanna’s secrets be shared?
And the few stories after the main tale resolves itself was a satisfying desert after the main course.
And the few stories after the main tale resolves itself was a satisfying desert after the main course.
August 14, 2023
This fantasy graphic novel has a strong focus on characters and character relationships. The protagonist is a free spirit with a heart of gold, so she is easy to root for. The book has 10 chapters. Chapters 1 to 7 cover a single quest, while chapters 8 to 10 are one-shot stories. Both the longer and the shorter stories are good, so there is no filler her. The art, for the most part, is good. It has a cartoony vibe to it. However, there are occasional panels where the art could have been better. Overall, I recommend this graphic novel for fantasy fans.
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