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Masques #1
Le Masque sans visage
Al, Siera et Hector n'avaient rien en commun jusqu'à ce que des masques fassent irruption dans leurs vies. Des masques antiques qui leur confèrent des pouvoirs défiant l'imagination. Comment gérer un tel don quand on a quinze ans et d'autres problèmes en tête ? Pourquoi ont-ils été choisis ? Pas le temps de se poser trop de questions, un masque puissant est tombé dans de mauvaises mains. Il va falloir s'allier et le récupérer avant qu'il ne soit trop tard...
88 pages, Hardcover
First published May 26, 2022
1 person is currently reading
65 people want to read
About the author
Kid Toussaint
100 books86 followersKid (Thierry) Toussaint est né il n'y a pas très longtemps, pas très loin (loin de quoi?). Il est Sagittaire ascendant Vierge, ce qui impressionne beaucoup dans les soirées mondaines. Rédacteur, traducteur, astrophysicien, catcheur et scénariste, il s'est promis d'écrire sa biographie quand il sera mort. En attendant, il écrit des bandes dessinées. Parmi celles-ci, on trouve "Magic 7" et "Télémaque" (Dupuis), "Killing Time" (Ankama), "À l'ombre du convoi" et "Holly Ann" (Casterman), "40 éléphants" (Grand Angle/Bamboo) ou encore "Brûlez Moscou" (Le Lombard).
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews
September 11, 2022
I really enjoy the plot but the transition between the scences wasn't so smooth. The artwork is amazing and promising. I will definetly recommend this book to my friends and readers who like comics with superheroes thematology. I hope to read the next volume any time soon.
November 23, 2022
I received a copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
Cute little graphic novel both for a middle-grade/young adult audience. I enjoyed the mythology elements and diversity in here as well as the art style. The plot didn't captivate me much and I would've preferred something a bit less cliché, but in the end of the day this is only volume 1 and I enjoyed it regardless so I would be down to keep following this story in the next volumes.
Cute little graphic novel both for a middle-grade/young adult audience. I enjoyed the mythology elements and diversity in here as well as the art style. The plot didn't captivate me much and I would've preferred something a bit less cliché, but in the end of the day this is only volume 1 and I enjoyed it regardless so I would be down to keep following this story in the next volumes.
September 26, 2022
Masks is a fun graphic novel about the unlikeliest people becoming superheroes. They get their powers from ancient masks derived from a dead god. The masks are drawn to people who are good, but also need them the most.
I enjoyed the way each of these characters had powers that derived from what they needed most at the time, it was really cool to see the way their "dreams" manifested into something that could help people. I also really enjoyed the artwork in this graphic novel.
The pacing of the graphic novel felt a bit off to me, there would be "transitions" in the storyline but I didn't realize they *were* transitions. It also felt like we were getting very little backstory behind the characters and their motivations. I'm still confused about the people that originally owned the masks/the adults in this story.
Overall, it was a fun and colorful first volume to a really cool group of superheroes!
I enjoyed the way each of these characters had powers that derived from what they needed most at the time, it was really cool to see the way their "dreams" manifested into something that could help people. I also really enjoyed the artwork in this graphic novel.
The pacing of the graphic novel felt a bit off to me, there would be "transitions" in the storyline but I didn't realize they *were* transitions. It also felt like we were getting very little backstory behind the characters and their motivations. I'm still confused about the people that originally owned the masks/the adults in this story.
Overall, it was a fun and colorful first volume to a really cool group of superheroes!
October 12, 2022
This was a highly surprising read and I didn't expect to love it as much as I did.
The story follows Al, Sierra and Hector, each from different countries but an unlikely group brought together by masks! These masks have special magical abilities and they choose a individual to give access to those abilities. However, if they fall into the wrong hands well then chaos ensues.
The characters were diverse and so individual and I loved it. I do wish we got to know a bit more about their backgrounds though. I feel like it wasn't enough and I wished for the volume to have explored a bit more about them to add greater depth to their character. But this is only the first installment so I hope we do get that in the next volume.
The story was fast paced, engrossing and easy to read. It was hooking from the beginning, and the art style was so gorgeous.
I look forward to volume 2!
Thanks to Netgalley and Europe Comics for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
The story follows Al, Sierra and Hector, each from different countries but an unlikely group brought together by masks! These masks have special magical abilities and they choose a individual to give access to those abilities. However, if they fall into the wrong hands well then chaos ensues.
The characters were diverse and so individual and I loved it. I do wish we got to know a bit more about their backgrounds though. I feel like it wasn't enough and I wished for the volume to have explored a bit more about them to add greater depth to their character. But this is only the first installment so I hope we do get that in the next volume.
The story was fast paced, engrossing and easy to read. It was hooking from the beginning, and the art style was so gorgeous.
I look forward to volume 2!
Thanks to Netgalley and Europe Comics for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
September 18, 2022
I loved the art style - this was beautiful to look at, even in the slightly gory picture of the original god.
The representation really good too and it was interesting that they touched on FGM, which I feel needs to be spoken about more in literature.
The pacing was fast and I flew through it - part of me felt like I would have been happier with less characters, and more character and world building, as the issues were worth more exploration and some of the scenes were clunky.
I thought that the cards at the end detailing what each mask does was a really nice touch.
I do hope this goes on to be a full series as it was excellent potential.
The representation really good too and it was interesting that they touched on FGM, which I feel needs to be spoken about more in literature.
The pacing was fast and I flew through it - part of me felt like I would have been happier with less characters, and more character and world building, as the issues were worth more exploration and some of the scenes were clunky.
I thought that the cards at the end detailing what each mask does was a really nice touch.
I do hope this goes on to be a full series as it was excellent potential.
September 19, 2022
Representation: Mexican protagonist, Black Latine protagonist, trans white Belgian protagonist, Mexican tertiary characters, French tertiary characters, Indonesian tertiary character.
Content Warning: deadnaming, death, violence, blood.
Review to come...
Content Warning: deadnaming, death, violence, blood.
Review to come...
October 26, 2022
so interesting :0 the concept is so intriguing !!!! The masks are all so pretty and I love Al & Siera !! The story is intriguing and well-paced & I will definitely be looking out for the next volume !! Al’s mask is especially cool :)
September 13, 2022
Thanks NetGalley and the authors for a copy of the eARC in exchange for an honest review!
I really enjoyed it! The idea is truly original and the story is compelling in fact I finished it very quickly.
The protagonists of this very colorful graphic novel come in possession of ancient masks that allow them to obtain powers to defeat evil.
I enjoyed reading at the end of the volume a sort of card in which the powers of each mask are explained!
Being the first volume many things are not explained and this made you want even more to read the next chapter.
I really have fun reading it and I highly recommended!
I really enjoyed it! The idea is truly original and the story is compelling in fact I finished it very quickly.
The protagonists of this very colorful graphic novel come in possession of ancient masks that allow them to obtain powers to defeat evil.
I enjoyed reading at the end of the volume a sort of card in which the powers of each mask are explained!
Being the first volume many things are not explained and this made you want even more to read the next chapter.
I really have fun reading it and I highly recommended!
September 28, 2022
First volume of Masks is one of the most intriguing comic books I have read recently. I wish volume two has been released I like more detail on the background between each characters.
This author connecting three different countries together is a brilliant idea as brings lots of new interesting characters to the plot as new masks are discovered. I look forward to finding out new masks in the next volume from our new group of superheroes.
I highly recommend Masks to any comic book fan.
Thanks to NetGallery and the author for sending me mask in in exchange for a honest review .
This author connecting three different countries together is a brilliant idea as brings lots of new interesting characters to the plot as new masks are discovered. I look forward to finding out new masks in the next volume from our new group of superheroes.
I highly recommend Masks to any comic book fan.
Thanks to NetGallery and the author for sending me mask in in exchange for a honest review .
November 24, 2022
Netgalley allowed me early access in exchange for honest review. All opinions are my own.
I thought Masks was amazing. I would definitely purchase a copy for my kids. The storyline was intriguing and I loved the diversity of characters. It was BIPOC and LGBTQIA+ friendly.
I wanted to read more and hope there is more to come.
I thought Masks was amazing. I would definitely purchase a copy for my kids. The storyline was intriguing and I loved the diversity of characters. It was BIPOC and LGBTQIA+ friendly.
I wanted to read more and hope there is more to come.
November 6, 2022
Masks is a YA Sci-Fi Fantasy graphic novel. The story centres three main characters from three different locations and it switches POVs. Each MC has their own issues and situations that lead them to coming into contact with a mask which has superpowers. I really liked the animation style and colour scheme, beautifully drawn!
I really liked the lore behind the masks! Quite dark and I love the funky little guys that made them. Each mask has their own power and they choose who can use them and who can’t. I’m excited for the next book to see what other masks there are and what powers they have. I loved that the author included character profiles for the masks at the end of the book giving background details and origins etc.
The book has a really diverse cast. We first meet Hector who is Mexican, living in Veracruz. Then we meet Siera who is black, from Burbuto but living in France as a refugee. Lastly, we meet Al who is trans FTM from Belgium. It switches back and forth between the stories and different dates until they all meet eachother. It sounds confusing but it doesn’t read like that!
As with many stories that have the “group of teenagers finding superpowers” trope, this also has a knowledge expert. In this story it’s Al’s father and he helps bring the group together and teaches them about the masks. There is another member of the group of teens but he doesn’t get his own POV and we don’t find out about him until the climax of the book.
This character is called Gunawan and we don’t really get any background info on him but maybe that’ll be in the next instalment of the series. It does annoy me that the only fat character is also the abnoxious I likeable character. The book discusses themes of loss, body image, transphobia, and immigration. It also briefly mentions female genital mutilation (FGM).
Overall, I had fun reading this, I like the plot and the characters, and I’m excited to continue the series. I think the author does a good job of keeping the book fun and adventurous while also discussing sociopolitical issues. I think this series will be very interesting and I’d recommend it to teens and upwards.
If you are a person who enjoys books/film media such as Percy Jackson or Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D, I think you’ll love this series too! Thank you to NetGalley and Europe Comics for allowing me this eARC. I would definitely purchase this for myself and will be looking forward to future releases.
Representation - Black (Siera); Refugee (Siera); Trans FTM (Al); Fat (Gunawan); POC (Hector)
TWs/CWs - Blood; Body dysmorphia; Child Abuse; Child death; Death of a loved one; Domestic Violence; Emotional blackmail; FGM; Gun Violence; Kidnapping; Mind control; Misgendering; Trafficking; Violence
I really liked the lore behind the masks! Quite dark and I love the funky little guys that made them. Each mask has their own power and they choose who can use them and who can’t. I’m excited for the next book to see what other masks there are and what powers they have. I loved that the author included character profiles for the masks at the end of the book giving background details and origins etc.
The book has a really diverse cast. We first meet Hector who is Mexican, living in Veracruz. Then we meet Siera who is black, from Burbuto but living in France as a refugee. Lastly, we meet Al who is trans FTM from Belgium. It switches back and forth between the stories and different dates until they all meet eachother. It sounds confusing but it doesn’t read like that!
As with many stories that have the “group of teenagers finding superpowers” trope, this also has a knowledge expert. In this story it’s Al’s father and he helps bring the group together and teaches them about the masks. There is another member of the group of teens but he doesn’t get his own POV and we don’t find out about him until the climax of the book.
This character is called Gunawan and we don’t really get any background info on him but maybe that’ll be in the next instalment of the series. It does annoy me that the only fat character is also the abnoxious I likeable character. The book discusses themes of loss, body image, transphobia, and immigration. It also briefly mentions female genital mutilation (FGM).
Overall, I had fun reading this, I like the plot and the characters, and I’m excited to continue the series. I think the author does a good job of keeping the book fun and adventurous while also discussing sociopolitical issues. I think this series will be very interesting and I’d recommend it to teens and upwards.
If you are a person who enjoys books/film media such as Percy Jackson or Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D, I think you’ll love this series too! Thank you to NetGalley and Europe Comics for allowing me this eARC. I would definitely purchase this for myself and will be looking forward to future releases.
Representation - Black (Siera); Refugee (Siera); Trans FTM (Al); Fat (Gunawan); POC (Hector)
TWs/CWs - Blood; Body dysmorphia; Child Abuse; Child death; Death of a loved one; Domestic Violence; Emotional blackmail; FGM; Gun Violence; Kidnapping; Mind control; Misgendering; Trafficking; Violence
September 18, 2022
“The mask is the trick”
I received a copy on NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Ive got to say I ended up really enjoying this !! It had a great cast of characters, an interesting and unique magic system, beautiful art style and plenty of diversity.
The representation here really stood out to me here because it doesn’t just mention what makes them diverse then brushes over it, it really goes into it. There’s a trans mc and it touches on the subject of binding and dysphoria and not really feeling as though you fit in. Theres a black mc and it touches on her experience of being a refugee and how that impacts her life and why she fled in the first place. Theres a latine mc and it touches on their culture and makes sure to intertwine that. So much care went in to making sure this representation was authentic and it was really nice to see.
I loved the whole concept of this honestly, ive never really seen something quite like this and it made me really engaged the whole way through. I appreciate that the masks weren’t just a little plot device but actually meant something to each person and that it tied into who they were as a person.
It took me quite a few pages to fully get into this just because the plot doesn’t quite pick up fast enough for me. Not many things are explained however I can chalk that up to being because its the first volume of a series and wont hold it against the book. At times the plot was a little clunky and it could definitely benefit from being a little longer but overall I enjoyed it and I will look into the next volumes as they’re released.
I received a copy on NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Ive got to say I ended up really enjoying this !! It had a great cast of characters, an interesting and unique magic system, beautiful art style and plenty of diversity.
The representation here really stood out to me here because it doesn’t just mention what makes them diverse then brushes over it, it really goes into it. There’s a trans mc and it touches on the subject of binding and dysphoria and not really feeling as though you fit in. Theres a black mc and it touches on her experience of being a refugee and how that impacts her life and why she fled in the first place. Theres a latine mc and it touches on their culture and makes sure to intertwine that. So much care went in to making sure this representation was authentic and it was really nice to see.
I loved the whole concept of this honestly, ive never really seen something quite like this and it made me really engaged the whole way through. I appreciate that the masks weren’t just a little plot device but actually meant something to each person and that it tied into who they were as a person.
It took me quite a few pages to fully get into this just because the plot doesn’t quite pick up fast enough for me. Not many things are explained however I can chalk that up to being because its the first volume of a series and wont hold it against the book. At times the plot was a little clunky and it could definitely benefit from being a little longer but overall I enjoyed it and I will look into the next volumes as they’re released.
October 31, 2022
A beautifully illustrate teen graphic novel in the superhero line with a very diverse cast.
The illustrations are amazing, smooth and bright, full of great colours, energy, details, very pro and personal. Loved the visual style, the masks and the very cute lore. It had a wonderful balance of whimsical and realistic like the best animations.
Plot-wise, it's a little harder to have a real opinion. This is an introduction volume, the genesis of the characters, to tell us where they come from, what kind of world we're stepping into, what kind of action we'll be facing... but only a superficial plot. It's very fast-paced, lots is happening, and a lot of it is rather heavy. This is for the older teens 16 and up because of some of the themes, but because it is so short and it tries to pack so much, it is also very superficial for an adult reader.
Depending where this graphic novel goes it could be amazing, or just meh. There are a few trope short-cuts, but not too many to make it annoying. Let's say for now it's an impressive intro, but it is just that, the meat of the story is to come, and hopefully they go more in-depth.
The illustrations are amazing, smooth and bright, full of great colours, energy, details, very pro and personal. Loved the visual style, the masks and the very cute lore. It had a wonderful balance of whimsical and realistic like the best animations.
Plot-wise, it's a little harder to have a real opinion. This is an introduction volume, the genesis of the characters, to tell us where they come from, what kind of world we're stepping into, what kind of action we'll be facing... but only a superficial plot. It's very fast-paced, lots is happening, and a lot of it is rather heavy. This is for the older teens 16 and up because of some of the themes, but because it is so short and it tries to pack so much, it is also very superficial for an adult reader.
Depending where this graphic novel goes it could be amazing, or just meh. There are a few trope short-cuts, but not too many to make it annoying. Let's say for now it's an impressive intro, but it is just that, the meat of the story is to come, and hopefully they go more in-depth.
November 26, 2022
Des masques qui confèrent des pouvoirs à leur porteur. C'est ce que vont "trouver" Al, Siera et Hector. Tous trois ne se connaissent pas, mais leurs destins vont se trouver liés...
D'un côté, nous avons Hector, un jeune homme qui subsiste grâce à de menus trafics. Un jour, il découvre un masque, l'enfile, et tue accidentellement son meilleur ami. Il tombe alors sous la coupe de trafiquants qui profitent de son pouvoir pour s'arroger le contrôle de la ville.
Au même moment, en Europe, Al enfile un masque pour tenter de sauver une femme agressée dans la rue, et découvre avec surprise que celui-ci lui confère une force fabuleuse.
Quant à Siera, c'est une jeune femme adoptée, qui semble fuir de dangereuses personnes venues de son pays d'origine. Pour s'enfuir, elle met un masque reçu en cadeau... et devient invisible.
Grâce aux mystérieux masques, d'inspirations variées (grecque, africaine, asiatique...), nos jeunes héros vont se rencontrer et lutter ensemble contre une organisation secrète.
***
Des jeunes gens confrontés à des problèmes personnels : identité, famille, violence, délinquance..., et le thème des super-pouvoirs. Voilà une nouvelle bande dessinée qui devrait parler aux adolescents !
On trouve beaucoup d'information dans ce premier tome, mais aussi de nombreuses questions qui émergent : Qui sont les petites créatures que voient les porteurs de masque ? Quelle est cette mystérieuse organisation secrète ?
Un premier tome très dynamique, bourré d'action et de tension. Le dynamisme est renforcé par le découpage des cases, le dessin très vif et les couleurs intenses.
C'est rythmé, péchu, mais aussi très intéressant pour les questions de société abordées. En bref, une bande dessinée que je suivrai de près pour en connaître l'évolution !
D'un côté, nous avons Hector, un jeune homme qui subsiste grâce à de menus trafics. Un jour, il découvre un masque, l'enfile, et tue accidentellement son meilleur ami. Il tombe alors sous la coupe de trafiquants qui profitent de son pouvoir pour s'arroger le contrôle de la ville.
Au même moment, en Europe, Al enfile un masque pour tenter de sauver une femme agressée dans la rue, et découvre avec surprise que celui-ci lui confère une force fabuleuse.
Quant à Siera, c'est une jeune femme adoptée, qui semble fuir de dangereuses personnes venues de son pays d'origine. Pour s'enfuir, elle met un masque reçu en cadeau... et devient invisible.
Grâce aux mystérieux masques, d'inspirations variées (grecque, africaine, asiatique...), nos jeunes héros vont se rencontrer et lutter ensemble contre une organisation secrète.
***
Des jeunes gens confrontés à des problèmes personnels : identité, famille, violence, délinquance..., et le thème des super-pouvoirs. Voilà une nouvelle bande dessinée qui devrait parler aux adolescents !
On trouve beaucoup d'information dans ce premier tome, mais aussi de nombreuses questions qui émergent : Qui sont les petites créatures que voient les porteurs de masque ? Quelle est cette mystérieuse organisation secrète ?
Un premier tome très dynamique, bourré d'action et de tension. Le dynamisme est renforcé par le découpage des cases, le dessin très vif et les couleurs intenses.
C'est rythmé, péchu, mais aussi très intéressant pour les questions de société abordées. En bref, une bande dessinée que je suivrai de près pour en connaître l'évolution !
September 13, 2022
|| Thank you to NetGalley and Europe Comics for providing me this arc in exchange for an honest review ! ||
I actually really liked the idea of this comics! It was well done and well introduced. I actually wasn't expecting to start of with some wrondoings from Hector and how everything turned out to be for the general story, but I guess it has to start somewhere and someone must make a mistake haha I do feel like the characters accepted the masks way too easily and without questionning it, without fearing to go into battle to do something risky?
The idea was super great. I liked the different masks and how they're related to each of them (even tho I have no idea why Gun's here and what his masks really does). I especially liked Al's mask and the little note about the wearer's gender at the end of this comics, it was a nice touch and it felt good.
I actually am really interested to see how it goes in volume 2, as we barely talk about the remaining characters: Al's dad, Gun, and the couple (?), also that home/residence/school ? I don't even know what it is lol.
I actually really liked the idea of this comics! It was well done and well introduced. I actually wasn't expecting to start of with some wrondoings from Hector and how everything turned out to be for the general story, but I guess it has to start somewhere and someone must make a mistake haha I do feel like the characters accepted the masks way too easily and without questionning it, without fearing to go into battle to do something risky?
The idea was super great. I liked the different masks and how they're related to each of them (even tho I have no idea why Gun's here and what his masks really does). I especially liked Al's mask and the little note about the wearer's gender at the end of this comics, it was a nice touch and it felt good.
I actually am really interested to see how it goes in volume 2, as we barely talk about the remaining characters: Al's dad, Gun, and the couple (?), also that home/residence/school ? I don't even know what it is lol.
October 14, 2022
First of all, I want to thank Netgalley and the publishing house for allowing me to discover this comic.
It must be said that the cover attracted me enormously, it made me think of the Mayans and the Incas, with the masks in the hands of both characters.
At the beginning of the book or would be believed in the film "Coco" of Disney, during the festival of the dead. I enjoyed being in this universe from the beginning.
Then we go through the daily life of the young people who make the Yamakasi.
I appreciated the cultural diversity of this book and I smiled when in a board, there was a banner with happy birthday written in my native language which is French, because yes, this book is in English:)
I find the work on the boards very well done, they make us pass many emotions and we are caught by the story, colorization is also for many.
As you can see, I had a great time with this book.
It must be said that the cover attracted me enormously, it made me think of the Mayans and the Incas, with the masks in the hands of both characters.
At the beginning of the book or would be believed in the film "Coco" of Disney, during the festival of the dead. I enjoyed being in this universe from the beginning.
Then we go through the daily life of the young people who make the Yamakasi.
I appreciated the cultural diversity of this book and I smiled when in a board, there was a banner with happy birthday written in my native language which is French, because yes, this book is in English:)
I find the work on the boards very well done, they make us pass many emotions and we are caught by the story, colorization is also for many.
As you can see, I had a great time with this book.
Read
September 23, 2022This was such a fun book to read! Thank you Netgalley for giving me a copy of this.
I really enjoyed the way the story started by introducing the most crucial aspect- showing the power a ‘mask’ holds. It made following the backstories of all the characters, especially Siera and Al, a lot easier. I loved the diversity of their backgrounds and the way important social issues were addressed. Although, the transition between different scenes did get a bit confusing at times. I also found some aspects unnecessarily dark given Hector, Al, and Siera were all supposed to be fifteen years old, The overall pacing did make up for it and kept me hooked throughout. The illustrations are also done beautifully!
In all, it is a quick read and gives a nice introduction to Mexican mythology with a fantasy spin.
I really enjoyed the way the story started by introducing the most crucial aspect- showing the power a ‘mask’ holds. It made following the backstories of all the characters, especially Siera and Al, a lot easier. I loved the diversity of their backgrounds and the way important social issues were addressed. Although, the transition between different scenes did get a bit confusing at times. I also found some aspects unnecessarily dark given Hector, Al, and Siera were all supposed to be fifteen years old, The overall pacing did make up for it and kept me hooked throughout. The illustrations are also done beautifully!
In all, it is a quick read and gives a nice introduction to Mexican mythology with a fantasy spin.
October 26, 2022
I received this book from Netgalley/the publisher in exchange of an honest review.
OK, this turned out to be not what I expected but I still greatly enjoyed it! Given the cover and the blurb I had expected something super duper scary involving masks. Horror. Something gruesome. Instead I got mysterious masks with all sorts of powers, a history behind them, and tons of supernatural action. It took me a bit to shift to that, but then I was just fully enjoying it.
The masks were pretty nifty! OK, I am not sure if I would have wanted Hector’s mask given how terrifying that one is. And not because of looks, but because of what it can do. Most of the book is actually about our characters and a team of adults trying to free Hector and make sure the mask is in the right hands. Because, oh boy oh boy oh boy. You don’t want this mask in the wrong hands. It would destroy the world. It would destroy everything. And why? Well, you have to read it! I wasn’t such a fan of Hector, the beginning really soured him for me, but as the story went on I was a bit more sympathetic to him. Yes, he was a bad boy, but no one deserves this.
I absolutely loved Al. I guess since they want to be male I should use he/him, so here we go. He is struggling with his body. We learn that from early on he has the feeling he was a boy. Though it seems his family is not all up to it. Though also not down-right being against it. I don’t know. Couldn’t really get a grasp on it. Either way, we see him struggle. And that is why I loved his mask. His masked allowed him to be a strong male. A huge hulking form. Apparently it depends on the wearer how strong/big the character is, so given how big and strong we see him it is a clear indication that someone needs to help out Al and get him all the help. Make sure he can transition safely. Without having to wear those horrible painful binders.
We also meet other characters, like Siera. A girl on the run for her family and trying her hardest to find a home. In the beginning of the story things seem to be OK, but quickly escalate and I was just so sad for her. That she had to constantly run. Flee. Just because she didn’t want to do what her family wanted her to do. Which I won’t mention as a spoiler, but holy hell, I would have also ran away. Nope to that. Her mask fits with her perfectly. Just like the others. I really liked Siera and I hope that she is able to find a stable home and make her dreams come true.
I loved seeing the characters meet and see them work together and I am excited for the next book in the series. I am curious what other masks there are and what kind of powers they have. What is up next for these children. What adventures await them.
The illustrations were really good. The art style was nice. It fitted well with the book and the story.
All in all, despite not being what I thought this was going to be I did enjoy it a lot and I would recommend this supernatural action book to all.
Review first posted by https://twirlingbookprincess.com/
OK, this turned out to be not what I expected but I still greatly enjoyed it! Given the cover and the blurb I had expected something super duper scary involving masks. Horror. Something gruesome. Instead I got mysterious masks with all sorts of powers, a history behind them, and tons of supernatural action. It took me a bit to shift to that, but then I was just fully enjoying it.
The masks were pretty nifty! OK, I am not sure if I would have wanted Hector’s mask given how terrifying that one is. And not because of looks, but because of what it can do. Most of the book is actually about our characters and a team of adults trying to free Hector and make sure the mask is in the right hands. Because, oh boy oh boy oh boy. You don’t want this mask in the wrong hands. It would destroy the world. It would destroy everything. And why? Well, you have to read it! I wasn’t such a fan of Hector, the beginning really soured him for me, but as the story went on I was a bit more sympathetic to him. Yes, he was a bad boy, but no one deserves this.
I absolutely loved Al. I guess since they want to be male I should use he/him, so here we go. He is struggling with his body. We learn that from early on he has the feeling he was a boy. Though it seems his family is not all up to it. Though also not down-right being against it. I don’t know. Couldn’t really get a grasp on it. Either way, we see him struggle. And that is why I loved his mask. His masked allowed him to be a strong male. A huge hulking form. Apparently it depends on the wearer how strong/big the character is, so given how big and strong we see him it is a clear indication that someone needs to help out Al and get him all the help. Make sure he can transition safely. Without having to wear those horrible painful binders.
We also meet other characters, like Siera. A girl on the run for her family and trying her hardest to find a home. In the beginning of the story things seem to be OK, but quickly escalate and I was just so sad for her. That she had to constantly run. Flee. Just because she didn’t want to do what her family wanted her to do. Which I won’t mention as a spoiler, but holy hell, I would have also ran away. Nope to that. Her mask fits with her perfectly. Just like the others. I really liked Siera and I hope that she is able to find a stable home and make her dreams come true.
I loved seeing the characters meet and see them work together and I am excited for the next book in the series. I am curious what other masks there are and what kind of powers they have. What is up next for these children. What adventures await them.
The illustrations were really good. The art style was nice. It fitted well with the book and the story.
All in all, despite not being what I thought this was going to be I did enjoy it a lot and I would recommend this supernatural action book to all.
Review first posted by https://twirlingbookprincess.com/
September 10, 2022
If you, like me, picked this up compelled by JJBA curiosity, let me answer your question right away: the similarity ends there. There are no extravagant villains named after heavy metal bands, or fashionable poses to strike midway through a heated battle, and no one is yeeted into space. The masks do give superpowers, but their recipients are a bunch of troubled (if diverse) teenagers, if that's you jam. The art is very dynamic and vibrant, it reads like a cartoon. But as the main arc was essentially character introductions, there wasn't much in the way of establishing plot beyond basic scene-setting. So I don't know if I can say anything about the story except it reads easily.
Thanks to #netgalley for an arc of this graphic novel.
Thanks to #netgalley for an arc of this graphic novel.
September 13, 2022
I received a copy on NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
In this graphic novel, we follow 3 teens as they learn how to use the powers of masks, said to have been made out of a fallen god.
This book had a lot going on for it.
I love the lore and the powers of different masks. How depending on the one you have, you get different powers.
I also love the representation in this one. We have a latine, black and trans mc. I’m so happy that we get to see this kind of representation with young people who have supernatural powers.
I however, in the end, decided to give this book 3⭐️.
I feel that the way the plot moved forward wasn’t very clear and didn’t flow well. It felt clunky.
Once again, thank you NetGalley for this copy.
In this graphic novel, we follow 3 teens as they learn how to use the powers of masks, said to have been made out of a fallen god.
This book had a lot going on for it.
I love the lore and the powers of different masks. How depending on the one you have, you get different powers.
I also love the representation in this one. We have a latine, black and trans mc. I’m so happy that we get to see this kind of representation with young people who have supernatural powers.
I however, in the end, decided to give this book 3⭐️.
I feel that the way the plot moved forward wasn’t very clear and didn’t flow well. It felt clunky.
Once again, thank you NetGalley for this copy.
September 26, 2022
trigger warning
The masks arrive on different waves, but they have one thing in common: They possess magical abilities and chose a person, usually a teenager, whom to trust and give access to said abilities. They should not fall into wrong hands.
Very fast-paced, beautifully illustrated. While this felt very short, I am invested in the plot and the characters now and can't wait for further installments.
I really like that the masks come from different traditions where the masks play a great role, and we have characters from different countries and with different issues.
Recommendations if you like slightly creepy, action-filled fantasy stories.
The arc was provided by the publisher.
The masks arrive on different waves, but they have one thing in common: They possess magical abilities and chose a person, usually a teenager, whom to trust and give access to said abilities. They should not fall into wrong hands.
Very fast-paced, beautifully illustrated. While this felt very short, I am invested in the plot and the characters now and can't wait for further installments.
I really like that the masks come from different traditions where the masks play a great role, and we have characters from different countries and with different issues.
Recommendations if you like slightly creepy, action-filled fantasy stories.
The arc was provided by the publisher.
October 5, 2022
Magical masks that give you superpowers? It is a pretty great premise for a story. There was a lot of representation and diversity in this book that I appreciated and think is important. I enjoyed Siera and Al's as character and their stories., The author and illustrator did a good job building a unique story with a lot of action, that started relatively quickly and continued throughout.
Ultimately I did not connect with this book the way I thought it would. The transitions between the characters plot lines at the beginning were confusing and it made it hard to connect with the book for me. That being said, there are a lot of great things and I think it is wort the read.
Ultimately I did not connect with this book the way I thought it would. The transitions between the characters plot lines at the beginning were confusing and it made it hard to connect with the book for me. That being said, there are a lot of great things and I think it is wort the read.
Read
November 25, 2022Masks is a graphic novel which throws the reader straight into the action. It brings together three unlikely characters, all with different backgrounds who have to work together.
The illustrations are very dynamic and visually stimulating and I liked the stark differences between the main characters. I’d definitely say Al was my favourite.
It’s quite a quick read as it’s short and fast paced and I’m pretty sure will be followed by a second and possibly even third book as this felt like the groundwork to a bigger story.
It’s an intriguing graphic novel and I’d recommend for someone who is looking to mix up their genres!
The illustrations are very dynamic and visually stimulating and I liked the stark differences between the main characters. I’d definitely say Al was my favourite.
It’s quite a quick read as it’s short and fast paced and I’m pretty sure will be followed by a second and possibly even third book as this felt like the groundwork to a bigger story.
It’s an intriguing graphic novel and I’d recommend for someone who is looking to mix up their genres!
September 11, 2022
I received a copy of this graphic novel from NetGalley in exchange for a review.
Masks is a fun story about three kids who are chosen by ancient masks carved from the body of a fallen god. The masks resonate to the kids' personalities.
This is the introductory volume of what will hopefully be an ongoing series. The world-building is interesting and the characters have unique perspectives and backstories. The art is truly delightful.
All-in-all a fun read that I would like to see more of in the future.
Masks is a fun story about three kids who are chosen by ancient masks carved from the body of a fallen god. The masks resonate to the kids' personalities.
This is the introductory volume of what will hopefully be an ongoing series. The world-building is interesting and the characters have unique perspectives and backstories. The art is truly delightful.
All-in-all a fun read that I would like to see more of in the future.
September 14, 2022
This was a great book! Thank you NetGalley for allowing me to read this!
Masks made long ago choose their wearers and these teens are gonna fight crime
This book is like Carmen Sandiego meets Miraculous Ladybug. I love the representation in here and how everything flows together. I want to know everything about this universe because it's such cool concept!
The only thing I could do without is Gun. I feel like we either needed more details or less it feels like an odd amount of knowledge to know about a character.
Masks made long ago choose their wearers and these teens are gonna fight crime
This book is like Carmen Sandiego meets Miraculous Ladybug. I love the representation in here and how everything flows together. I want to know everything about this universe because it's such cool concept!
The only thing I could do without is Gun. I feel like we either needed more details or less it feels like an odd amount of knowledge to know about a character.
October 6, 2022
Thanks to Netgalley for providing this ARC.
I really enjoyed ‘Masks’ it was a great time.
The art style was beautiful with vibrant colours throughout and fitted the story well.
I loved the diversity in the cast of characters and can see several themes and areas of personal growth developing which will make for interesting character arcs throughout the series.
The ‘theory’ behind the masks was interesting and I’m looking forward to it being explored more.
A solid start to what is sure to be an interesting series of graphic novels - 4 stars!
I really enjoyed ‘Masks’ it was a great time.
The art style was beautiful with vibrant colours throughout and fitted the story well.
I loved the diversity in the cast of characters and can see several themes and areas of personal growth developing which will make for interesting character arcs throughout the series.
The ‘theory’ behind the masks was interesting and I’m looking forward to it being explored more.
A solid start to what is sure to be an interesting series of graphic novels - 4 stars!
September 26, 2022
A team of unlikely heroes find magical masks that grant them their greatest dream, or their worst nightmare. It was fun how the masks' powers reflected the characters' wants and desires. I think it could have been a little longer, especially establishing setting, but the characters were strong. Lots of queer rep and characters of color.
Thanks to NetGalley for the arc. All opinions are my own.
Thanks to NetGalley for the arc. All opinions are my own.
October 24, 2022
A lot of this hasn't really been explained yet. There's these masks that give certain teenagers powers. A kid who gets in trouble with a Mexican Cartel is the focus of this story. They are forcing him to use his powers to force people to do his bidding as anyone who hears him must obey. However, he can't take the mask off. It's a decent but somewhat generic story considering how many other books do something very similar.
November 17, 2022
I thought this was a good first volume of a new adventure series about masks that transform the wearers to fight for justice. The masks transform young people into superheroes and they are able to respond to crime and injustice.
The artwork was good with bright attractive colours. It is a good first volume although I wish it had been a bit longer. Copy provided via Netgalley in exchange for an unbiased review.
The artwork was good with bright attractive colours. It is a good first volume although I wish it had been a bit longer. Copy provided via Netgalley in exchange for an unbiased review.
September 10, 2022
I read this through netgalley! Thank you for the opportunity! A really fun read, with some amazing artwork and a really good story. I also really appreciated and liked the diversity in it, going from trans to the different cultures and countries. That was really nice to read as well! Really fun story!
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