What do you think?
Rate this book
Trese Bloodlines #1
Trese Bloodlines, #1
When the sun sets in the city of Manila and the denizens of the dark prepare to prey on its people, the Trese family take their posts at the dimly-lit corners of the metro.
These are the stories of Alexandra, her brothers, and the many monsters and demons they battle in order to save the whole city or fight for that one soul.
These are the stories of Alexandra, her brothers, and the many monsters and demons they battle in order to save the whole city or fight for that one soul.
167 pages, Paperback
First published December 1, 2020
6 people are currently reading
111 people want to read
About the author
Budjette Tan
55 books384 followersBudjette Tan is the writer of the award-winning comic book TRESE, which he co-created with his partner/illustrator Kajo Baldisimo.
TRESE has been adapted into an anime series by Netflix.
He was a founding member of ALAMAT COMICS in the 1990s.
He's also the writer and co-creator of THE DEMON DUNGEON / DARK COLONY books, which he made with Bow Guerrero and JB Tapia.
He was also the co-editor of the KWENTILLION scifi/fantasy comics magazine (published by Summit), the UNDERPASS horror anthology (Summit), and SOUND: A Comic Anthology (published by Difference Engine).
TRESE has been adapted into an anime series by Netflix.
He was a founding member of ALAMAT COMICS in the 1990s.
He's also the writer and co-creator of THE DEMON DUNGEON / DARK COLONY books, which he made with Bow Guerrero and JB Tapia.
He was also the co-editor of the KWENTILLION scifi/fantasy comics magazine (published by Summit), the UNDERPASS horror anthology (Summit), and SOUND: A Comic Anthology (published by Difference Engine).
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
March 30, 2021
If you're new to the Trese series of graphic novels, I prepared a primer on the main character Alexandra Trese on YouTube. If you enjoyed my Trese content, feel free to subscribe to my channel.
For a fandom starved of new Trese content, two graphic novel collections in less than two years is a torrential downpour after a 5 year hiatus. However, this book is unlike the preceding graphic novels, which were done by the main creative team of Tan and Balidisimo. It's a compilation of short stories featuring Trese characters by guest creators and sandwiched in between two Baldisimo-illustrated tales.
It's a mixed bag, because it's hard to care about non-Trese related characters and universes. However, this is the perfect place to do something like Tapia's Verdugo short story. The oldest Trese sibling is a lot more intense than his little sister Alexandra, and this collection highlights that difference with a blood-soaked romp across the aswang underground. This is easily the best story out of the bunch included in this book.
With a Netflix anime coming soon, there's going to be more Trese material coming and I can't wait to read them all.
For a fandom starved of new Trese content, two graphic novel collections in less than two years is a torrential downpour after a 5 year hiatus. However, this book is unlike the preceding graphic novels, which were done by the main creative team of Tan and Balidisimo. It's a compilation of short stories featuring Trese characters by guest creators and sandwiched in between two Baldisimo-illustrated tales.
It's a mixed bag, because it's hard to care about non-Trese related characters and universes. However, this is the perfect place to do something like Tapia's Verdugo short story. The oldest Trese sibling is a lot more intense than his little sister Alexandra, and this collection highlights that difference with a blood-soaked romp across the aswang underground. This is easily the best story out of the bunch included in this book.
With a Netflix anime coming soon, there's going to be more Trese material coming and I can't wait to read them all.
November 2, 2021
Okay, I'm gonna say it.
Takutan: A Verdugo Mission was in very, very poor taste.
The Fr. Matthias Trese stories slapped though.
Takutan: A Verdugo Mission was in very, very poor taste.
The Fr. Matthias Trese stories slapped though.
June 1, 2021
A good read while waiting for Trese 8. It tells different stories of the Trese siblings. Verdugo, prof rick, fr. Matt and alex. The first part is about the different Visions of Miranda Trese concering her children. My favorite part is Alex x Andara deviation story. Alex's hair is a shocker. But I think it is much fitting for her. Kajo's art is somehow a bit different but improved a lot from the first Trese.
Least of my fav story is That kind of Hunger. Where fr. Matr goes undercover. Idk, it felt dragging especially the last part, the letter part. I didn't grasp most of it lol.
Overall, a must read for a Trese fan and for new in the fandom too.
Least of my fav story is That kind of Hunger. Where fr. Matr goes undercover. Idk, it felt dragging especially the last part, the letter part. I didn't grasp most of it lol.
Overall, a must read for a Trese fan and for new in the fandom too.
January 10, 2021
It's a good thing to find collaborations done by our talented local writers/artists as shown in this collection. I like Budjette's stories the most.
February 18, 2021
Three words: Father Matthias Trese.
He is already my favorite character, and I will volunteer all the way - as someone who shares that kind of life - to write his prequel or pitch an idea.
He is already my favorite character, and I will volunteer all the way - as someone who shares that kind of life - to write his prequel or pitch an idea.
January 13, 2021
The kick-ass side of Philippine mythology!
This is the first 'Trese' comic that I finished. I remember reading a few chapters way back 2014 and I have always admired the series. It is only now that I finally got to immerse myself in the world of Trese and I'd say I enjoyed the ride pretty much.
The comic has 5 parts:
The Vision of Miranda Trese
I kinda like this one because it gave me an introduction to the Trese family. For someone just getting into the story, it is a great start. I also love the artwork on this better than the rest. Albeit it is short, it got me thinking the most with it's ending. It felt like someone died on this...
Takutan: A Verdugo Mission
Carlos Trese is my favorite of all the siblings so far. He's cunning and goes straight to the point. The most badass of them all—all strength! I really like the parallel of the creatures to the prominent personalities in our society as well as the climax where the creators didn't need to show graphics to terrorize the readers! It's ending has the strongest impact for me.
That Kind of Hunger: A Fr. Matthias Trese Case
Graphic-wise, this one is the creepiest. I also like the plot, although it seems kinds abrupt and leans more on telling about the characters or creatures than the mission itself.
Iunctura: A Fr. Trese and Dakila Deviation Story
The graphics on this one stands out because it really looks like a superhero comic (and not too dark like the rest of the book). The storyline is also kinda cool and gives more depth to Fr. Matthias. I liked him here better than the previous story.
Personal Demons: An Alexandra Trese and Detective Andara Deviation Story
Alexandra Trese's only appearance in the comic. I was looking forward to her story throughout and the last chapter did not disappoint. It has a good start and proper backstory which made the villain's presence even more eerie. I didn't grew fond of Andara which is the only downside for me. Having the story revolve around his ancestry, I expected that I'd be affected by his demise. I didn't.
To wrap it all up, it's a good book but I expected something like that one story I read before. You can tell it was THAT iconic considering it's still my point of comparison after all the years that has passed.
This is the first 'Trese' comic that I finished. I remember reading a few chapters way back 2014 and I have always admired the series. It is only now that I finally got to immerse myself in the world of Trese and I'd say I enjoyed the ride pretty much.
The comic has 5 parts:
The Vision of Miranda Trese
I kinda like this one because it gave me an introduction to the Trese family. For someone just getting into the story, it is a great start. I also love the artwork on this better than the rest. Albeit it is short, it got me thinking the most with it's ending. It felt like someone died on this...
Takutan: A Verdugo Mission
Carlos Trese is my favorite of all the siblings so far. He's cunning and goes straight to the point. The most badass of them all—all strength! I really like the parallel of the creatures to the prominent personalities in our society as well as the climax where the creators didn't need to show graphics to terrorize the readers! It's ending has the strongest impact for me.
That Kind of Hunger: A Fr. Matthias Trese Case
Graphic-wise, this one is the creepiest. I also like the plot, although it seems kinds abrupt and leans more on telling about the characters or creatures than the mission itself.
Iunctura: A Fr. Trese and Dakila Deviation Story
The graphics on this one stands out because it really looks like a superhero comic (and not too dark like the rest of the book). The storyline is also kinda cool and gives more depth to Fr. Matthias. I liked him here better than the previous story.
Personal Demons: An Alexandra Trese and Detective Andara Deviation Story
Alexandra Trese's only appearance in the comic. I was looking forward to her story throughout and the last chapter did not disappoint. It has a good start and proper backstory which made the villain's presence even more eerie. I didn't grew fond of Andara which is the only downside for me. Having the story revolve around his ancestry, I expected that I'd be affected by his demise. I didn't.
To wrap it all up, it's a good book but I expected something like that one story I read before. You can tell it was THAT iconic considering it's still my point of comparison after all the years that has passed.
February 6, 2021
The Deviations format is genius. I think the main story of Trese is about to close in less than 10 volumes. This format will open up possibilities to continue the tale. Also, “like Stories from the Diabolical”, I’m liking the word to image proportion lately. Some parts bits of main Trese is hard to digest with so many things happening.
Bloodlines really hypes up your interest to the rest of the Trese family.
Bloodlines really hypes up your interest to the rest of the Trese family.
August 4, 2021
I feel like there's a whole lot I don't understand in reading this, and a whole more to unveil from the other Trese volumes, but I just want to say I love Enrique. He seems so, so perpetually tired. I want to help him. 😩 Help him save his siblings from all their troubles, help him check his students' papers, help him fall asleep soundly (I may or may not be kidding here lol). And, oh, Carlos has my heart as well. He's the first Trese child I read about, aside of course from Alexandra, and I think that might be the prime factor of my partiality to him. He's just so hardcore and badass to the point that no matter how many times I read Takutan: A Verdugo Mission, I always end up rooting for him more. I love how the story showed his and Alexandra's differing stands and outlooks on the aswang. How it built up his character and set him aside from his sister, who, by the way, is also a badass, not just badass enough to par with his kuya (haluh charot lang Alexandra! Fav pa rin kita hehe). He's terrifying and I love him.
For the other two brothers, I have a few thoughts.
Matthias is cute. But. I won't lewd him na huhu 😭. I'm sorry, father, for all the sins. I liked his second story more than the first. I feel like That Kind of Hunger is confusing at best. Didn't grasp the whole plot. The deviation one, on the other hand, is sooo entertaining to read. I get to see a kind of laid back side of Matt. I liked Dakila as well, in all his cape and costume glory.
Annnd here comes Jimmy boy.
He doesn't have a separate story! I was mildly disappointed. He's the one among all his siblings that I so badly want to meet and read about the most. From what I have gathered from lurking around the Trese Facebook groups, he's the makulit one. He might only have one braincell, just like the kambal and Maliksi, apparently. Lol. I just wish there were more panels about him in this book, but alas, Sir Budj mentioned that they're still working on his story. I'm elated for that. I want to see more of him (because I haven't gotten myself a copy of Trese volume 7 wherein he has his own case).
Overall, it's a fun read. Recommended for those who are also new to fandom like me, who wants to learn more about Alexandra and her siblings. Hope to snag and read more Trese comics soon! ✨
For the other two brothers, I have a few thoughts.
Matthias is cute. But. I won't lewd him na huhu 😭. I'm sorry, father, for all the sins. I liked his second story more than the first. I feel like That Kind of Hunger is confusing at best. Didn't grasp the whole plot. The deviation one, on the other hand, is sooo entertaining to read. I get to see a kind of laid back side of Matt. I liked Dakila as well, in all his cape and costume glory.
Annnd here comes Jimmy boy.
He doesn't have a separate story! I was mildly disappointed. He's the one among all his siblings that I so badly want to meet and read about the most. From what I have gathered from lurking around the Trese Facebook groups, he's the makulit one. He might only have one braincell, just like the kambal and Maliksi, apparently. Lol. I just wish there were more panels about him in this book, but alas, Sir Budj mentioned that they're still working on his story. I'm elated for that. I want to see more of him (because I haven't gotten myself a copy of Trese volume 7 wherein he has his own case).
Overall, it's a fun read. Recommended for those who are also new to fandom like me, who wants to learn more about Alexandra and her siblings. Hope to snag and read more Trese comics soon! ✨
March 7, 2021
TRESE BLOODLINES vol . 1. “Inertia is the law of the universe. An object will keep moving in a straight line unless an outside force makes it change its course. To change your destiny, sometimes you need a little help.”
.
Trese comics did it again! In this book, we met the Trese clan especially the brothers of Alexandra Trese. We were introduced to the dark visions of their mother, Miranda Trese, and the missions of the Trese siblings subsequently. We indulged not only in the Philippine mythology but also the mythology of our Asian brethren. On that note, we met new terrifying mythological creatures that kept me awake for quite a while! 🤣
.
Well what can I say except all the superlatives my vocab could muster. This book is a delightful feat for dark fantasy readers. It reeks mayhem and tragedy not only in the world as we know it but also beyond. Each story is a whole new level of exciting adventure! It is rich in mythological research combined historical tidbits. The art is sooooo satisfying. Despite the gore and my terrified self, I can’t stop looking at the pages because the art is that well-done! It is also noteworthy to acknowledge how sir Kajo Baldisimo’s already exceptional art has exponentially achieved new heights after Trese 7 was published!
.
Hands down 👏👏 Hats off 🎩👒 to the team who worked together to bring this to us mere mortals! Thank you so much for being awesome maestros! 😎
.
I adore how this book transcends boundaries of time, space, history, reality and mythology.
.
This is a definitely a GodTier book to kickoff my ACMC readathon! My silent crush on Fr. Matthias just went to outright scream-o mode through the pages. Deym! He just became my favorite Trese bro. I still love Jimmy Trese though. Uggghh!
.
Trese comics did it again! In this book, we met the Trese clan especially the brothers of Alexandra Trese. We were introduced to the dark visions of their mother, Miranda Trese, and the missions of the Trese siblings subsequently. We indulged not only in the Philippine mythology but also the mythology of our Asian brethren. On that note, we met new terrifying mythological creatures that kept me awake for quite a while! 🤣
.
Well what can I say except all the superlatives my vocab could muster. This book is a delightful feat for dark fantasy readers. It reeks mayhem and tragedy not only in the world as we know it but also beyond. Each story is a whole new level of exciting adventure! It is rich in mythological research combined historical tidbits. The art is sooooo satisfying. Despite the gore and my terrified self, I can’t stop looking at the pages because the art is that well-done! It is also noteworthy to acknowledge how sir Kajo Baldisimo’s already exceptional art has exponentially achieved new heights after Trese 7 was published!
.
Hands down 👏👏 Hats off 🎩👒 to the team who worked together to bring this to us mere mortals! Thank you so much for being awesome maestros! 😎
.
I adore how this book transcends boundaries of time, space, history, reality and mythology.
.
This is a definitely a GodTier book to kickoff my ACMC readathon! My silent crush on Fr. Matthias just went to outright scream-o mode through the pages. Deym! He just became my favorite Trese bro. I still love Jimmy Trese though. Uggghh!
May 25, 2023
4 stars!
I loved reading more about the Trese brothers. My favorite are Fr. Mathias stories especially the one with Dakila. That was such a fun adventure. I'm torn about Verdugo tho. On the one hand, yey badassery! On the other hand, I think it's a tad too violent. And the panels didn't even show what the aswang triplets ended up looking! Still, Verdugo is an intriguing character and I would like to see more of him. I hope another volume drops soon with Jimmy and Prof. Rick's stories.
My rating per story:
The Visions of Miranda Trese - 3.5 stars - There's some intriguing plot threads here but there's no complete story so I can't rate it higher. As a booklover tho, I would love to have access to that library.
Takutan: a Verdugo mission - 3.5 stars - As I've said, I love some badassery but maybe tone down the violence a bit. Tho 'Make them fear you' is as good a motto as any I guess.
That Kind of Hunger - 3 stars - Okay I like the story but I have problems with the art. I can't really distinguish one character from another especially with the masks. So oftentimes I had no clue who was talking.
Iuntura - 4.5 stars - Fun! I love the Dakila! He seems like such a chill superhero. I should probably see about getting some Dakila comics. I especially like the idea of angelic tech.
Personal Demons - 4.5 stars - I wish this were longer to be honest. I feel like this could be a whole longer story since there's so much history in such a short piece. Would love an expanded version.
Recommended for Trese fans. Non-Trese fans might need a bit of intro before diving in.
I loved reading more about the Trese brothers. My favorite are Fr. Mathias stories especially the one with Dakila. That was such a fun adventure. I'm torn about Verdugo tho. On the one hand, yey badassery! On the other hand, I think it's a tad too violent. And the panels didn't even show what the aswang triplets ended up looking! Still, Verdugo is an intriguing character and I would like to see more of him. I hope another volume drops soon with Jimmy and Prof. Rick's stories.
My rating per story:
The Visions of Miranda Trese - 3.5 stars - There's some intriguing plot threads here but there's no complete story so I can't rate it higher. As a booklover tho, I would love to have access to that library.
Takutan: a Verdugo mission - 3.5 stars - As I've said, I love some badassery but maybe tone down the violence a bit. Tho 'Make them fear you' is as good a motto as any I guess.
That Kind of Hunger - 3 stars - Okay I like the story but I have problems with the art. I can't really distinguish one character from another especially with the masks. So oftentimes I had no clue who was talking.
Iuntura - 4.5 stars - Fun! I love the Dakila! He seems like such a chill superhero. I should probably see about getting some Dakila comics. I especially like the idea of angelic tech.
Personal Demons - 4.5 stars - I wish this were longer to be honest. I feel like this could be a whole longer story since there's so much history in such a short piece. Would love an expanded version.
Recommended for Trese fans. Non-Trese fans might need a bit of intro before diving in.
March 12, 2023
3.5 stars.
Still an essential read (but shouldn't be an introductory piece for Trese virgins), as it further gives us a glimpse of the vast (and intertwining) world of the Trese siblings. I also appreciate the collabs of different artists - I love the refreshing take/perspectives (even though I find some of the stories a bit tedious or unnecessarily wordy at times).
My favorite is the Verdugo story -- perfect amount of creep, horrific, and bad-assery. Felt a little confused about Trese's behavior though -- I get her intent behind trying to be neutral, to keep the balance between the two worlds (and save his brother from the dark side and all that ish), but some of her words or reactions bordered a little towards brown-nosing for me. IDK, it just felt a bit uncharacteristic of her. Maybe it was the situation they're in, or could be that she was younger then (was she?) and a little more idealistic?
Still an essential read (but shouldn't be an introductory piece for Trese virgins), as it further gives us a glimpse of the vast (and intertwining) world of the Trese siblings. I also appreciate the collabs of different artists - I love the refreshing take/perspectives (even though I find some of the stories a bit tedious or unnecessarily wordy at times).
My favorite is the Verdugo story -- perfect amount of creep, horrific, and bad-assery. Felt a little confused about Trese's behavior though -- I get her intent behind trying to be neutral, to keep the balance between the two worlds (and save his brother from the dark side and all that ish), but some of her words or reactions bordered a little towards brown-nosing for me. IDK, it just felt a bit uncharacteristic of her. Maybe it was the situation they're in, or could be that she was younger then (was she?) and a little more idealistic?
January 25, 2021
TRESE Bloodlines: I'm not the target market? The first Pinoy komiks I've read since like, probably 1995. But I did like one story in particular (Personal Demons: An Alexandra Trese & Detective Andara Deviation Story) and am willing to browse through others in the series, although I *am* one of those who willingly enter new worlds kasi. Unsure about recc'ing this to my homies, but glad I picked it up. Again, I'm just one of those folks.
May 14, 2021
I'm not fond of spin-offs or AU's, but heck I'm obsessed with Trese. Yet I prefer the main storyline of the series rather than this one, I expected more actually, waiting for some sort "twist" and "punch" that I usually found in other of the volumes.
Its good book overall, and maybe I feel something is missing because I just have some sort of crazy and bipolar taste!
Be careful where you tread~
Its good book overall, and maybe I feel something is missing because I just have some sort of crazy and bipolar taste!
Be careful where you tread~
August 28, 2021
This unfortunately was the worst Trese book I have read so far but the thing is it is created by different authors and artists and you can really tell, this is made up of different stories and honestly the only good ones were the first one and the last one everything else in the middle just was boring and it lost the whole philippines mythology aspect to it. If you want to finish all the Trese books give this a shot but do not make this your first Trese read.
December 28, 2021
Though I don't think this is the best place to start reading Trese, it does provide a nice introduction to the Trese family and enough context for new fans like me. The stories fared well in terms of plot, especially those involving Fr. Matthias, but when it comes to art style, I must say Kajo delivered best. Still, I'm glad to see Filipino creators collaborate like this. It was an enjoyable experience overall.
May 8, 2021
I enjoyed the stories in this volume especially the first one about the visions/prophecies, Takuta, and Budjette's stories, as well as the collabs between artists. However, I did find that one Father Matthias story to be to wordy and confusing I had to read it twice. Still, a great addition to the Trese collection and something to temporarily cure my longing for the next installation.
September 2, 2021
More collaborations please. I want to read more journeys of the characters from Trese underworld. I'm proud to our Filipino comic artists to revive this industry to our country.
I hope this comic book inspires younger generation to pursue their talent and dreams to become a well-known artist in the future.
I'll comeback for more bloodlines anthologies.
I hope this comic book inspires younger generation to pursue their talent and dreams to become a well-known artist in the future.
I'll comeback for more bloodlines anthologies.
April 14, 2021
As a big Trese fan, I appreciate getting to see more worldbuilding outside of the main storyline/focus on Alexandra. These "spin-off" stories (if I can call them that) bring a lot of new things to the table that I need to wrap my head around and it's great.
May 18, 2021
Pinakanagustuhan ko ang "The Visions of Miranda Trese" at ang "Personal Demons: and Alexandra Trese and Detective Andara Deviation Story." Si Kajo Baldisimo ang gumuhit sa dalawang kuwento. Ang ganda ng pagkaguhit, lalo na ang sa unang kuwento. Ang elegante.
June 26, 2021
Actual rating: 3.5 stars
Really tried to like this one but I can say it's a mixed bag. Still, a nice compilation and it's fun to see diff creators collab within the Treseverse. Will def pick up the next volume/s if ever and see if those will work for me better.
Really tried to like this one but I can say it's a mixed bag. Still, a nice compilation and it's fun to see diff creators collab within the Treseverse. Will def pick up the next volume/s if ever and see if those will work for me better.
January 4, 2021
One star lacking due to the lack of familiarity with the cross over characters in the Deviation stories. Review to follow.
April 4, 2021
I’m happy with the cross overs. It’s such wonderful work and I’m scrambling to get more.
April 27, 2021
Refreshing to see and read about the adventures of the other Trese spawn.
June 14, 2021
The multiverse!
July 19, 2022
✨2.8 stars✨
March 3, 2021
The Sixth Child of the Sixth Son -- Alexandra Trese.
On this new volume, Trese Bloodlines, the backstories of the Trese's mother Miranda Trese (she's like a prophecy), Carlos, Matthias, and deviation with Dakila and Andara were told. I really really liked Verdugo's story and awesomeness 🤧 He's my favorite Trese kuya as of now. I'm still waiting for Jimmy and Rick's backstory anyway 🤔 I also love how Dakila and Fr. Matthias had a crossover. It's so cute and somewhat funny.
This is still a 5 ⭐ read for me despite having a part where I find it hard to understand the back story of the creature that possessed Asra. 😅
On this new volume, Trese Bloodlines, the backstories of the Trese's mother Miranda Trese (she's like a prophecy), Carlos, Matthias, and deviation with Dakila and Andara were told. I really really liked Verdugo's story and awesomeness 🤧 He's my favorite Trese kuya as of now. I'm still waiting for Jimmy and Rick's backstory anyway 🤔 I also love how Dakila and Fr. Matthias had a crossover. It's so cute and somewhat funny.
This is still a 5 ⭐ read for me despite having a part where I find it hard to understand the back story of the creature that possessed Asra. 😅
March 31, 2021
They have not held back on their monsters this time. I love the horror and the chills I felt while reading this whole collection. Makes me more excited for the animated series!
Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews