Review: SECRETS OF THE STONES, Issue 1 by Sabrina Kidd!

About the Book: A secret worth sharing...

After suddenly awakening, completely alone and with mysterious injuries, Christine has no recollection of who or where she is. She finds herself pursued by dragons, rogue magicians, and an heiress hell-bent on revenge. Through her own instinct and intuition, Christine must try and piece together the story of her life. Who is a friend and who is a foe? Who had she been and who will she become? Sometimes it is only in our most vulnerable moments that we are able to find our true inner strength. [From Amazon.com]

My Review: I love graphic novels, so of course I jumped at the chance to read and review this. And it was definitely a quick and entertaining read. This is only an issue, not a full graphic novel, so it is much shorter than one might expect. And also, for that reason, it's hard to get a full grasp of the story because the more you get into it and the faster you flip through it - the end becomes a pained reminder that you'll have to wait for more.

That said, despite the length, this had a very entertaining and intriguing story. I wanted to know what was going on - it raised questions that had me curious, rather than annoyed like some issues of comics tend to do. And the art is truly beautiful. I love this style, the coloring - I'd gladly keep reading for the art alone, but the story holds its own against it as well.

I also want to throw in how much I appreciate the little shorts at the end. It added a bit of levity and humor right when I was getting a little sad that it was over so soon. Hopefully there will be more to come before long!

Cover Lovin': Very well done, attractive cover.

Recommendation: You'll be eager for the next issue!

Final Rating: THREE POINT FIVE out of FIVE stars (3.5/5)!! A very good start to what seems like it will be an entertaining series, but the length does leave something to be desired.

Get it from AMAZON today! 

Review: MAID-SAMA! (2-in-1 edition), Volume 6

Release Date: November 1st, 2016

Type: Manga, Comic, Series, 2-in-1, shojo, young adult, teen, Just Kiss Already!

About the Book: A 2-in-1 edition of the romantic-comedy series where chaos ensues when the student council president’s secret—that she works at a maid café—is discovered by the school’s #1 hottie!

As if being student council president of a predominantly male high school isn’t hard enough, Misaki Ayuzawa has a major secret—she works at a maid café after school! How is she supposed to keep her image of being ultrasmart, strong and overachieving intact once school heartthrob Takumi Usui discovers her double life?!

Misaki and Takumi go on a double date with Sakura and Kuga to the hot springs! However, Misaki is still shaken up after learning about Takumi’s past. So what kinds of challenges await her when she unearths even more information about his family. [Description from Goodreads.com]

My Review: I am so very happy that they are releasing the rest of Maid-sama! I started reading this series last year, and I was heartbroken to find out that since Tokyopop closed down, there was no plans to release the rest of the series in English. So huge huge thanks to Viz Media for picking them up and putting them out there for those of us that never learned Japanese (I wish!). I think I continue to read manga series because, for the most part, they are absolutely adorable (or at least the young adult ones are - the adult ones, whoa man). Maid-sama! is no exception - the relationship between this very unlikely pair is just so cute, right from the get-go. 

I appreciate that we're finally delving into Usui's past. I was a little confused when he explained his family history in the previous volume, but we're getting more information now, and even meeting some of his family members. This just makes it all the more interesting, since it pushes Misaki and Usui closer together, working as a team to annoy, or fight back, his family. The bit towards the end - featuring their ninja stalker, was laugh-out-loud ridiculous, and was perfectly done. This manga is great at throwing in the little bit of silliness you need to handle how serious it can get.

Cover Lovin': Fits perfectly with the rest of the series! 

Recommendation: This will be awfully confusing without having read the rest of the series, so interested readers definitely need to start with book one.

Final Rating: FOUR out of FIVE stars (4/5). I love this series, and I can't wait for the next volume!

Happy Reading!
~!~ Amanda, Novel Addiction ~!~ 

Disclaimer: I received a free, advanced copy in exchange for a fair and honest review.  

Weekly Reading Update: 07/29 - 08/04/16!

Another week, another update… As always, click the title for more information!

I started my week off by reading The Matchmaker’s Playbook by Rachel Van Dyken. You might have seen my review of book two, The Matchmaker’s Replacement, earlier this week. I couldn’t just read the second book without the first! And I’m glad I did - I actually think I liked the first book more. It was told entirely from Ian’s perspective, which felt new and different. And all the characters had a fantastic sense of snark and humor.

Then I moved on to Cream of the Crop by Alice Clayton. This is my first book by this author, and if this is any indication - I can see why she’s so popular! The book was funny, the characters were awesome (I’d love to be Natalie’s friend!), and I totally dug Natalie’s mental soundtrack. I can’t wait to go back and read the first book, and/or start her Cocktail series! I reviewed this one for Romance Reviews Today, so make sure to check it out - appearing in August 2016.

Then I moved on to a graphic novel binge. I got several in the past few days, and just hoarded them until I had a free evening to go through them all. I started out with Hawkeye volume 6: Hawkeyes by Jeff Lemire. While I do love Jeff Lemire’s work, usually, this one just didn’t feel as good as the first few volumes. The Hawkeye series went from four star read to three stars. But I’ll keep going. Then I moved on to Grayson volume 2: We All Die At Dawn by Tom King. If it wasn’t for the fact that I love Dick Grayson, I would drop this and never look back. I don’t enjoy reading this. And while Dick still has some good moments, they’re not enough to make reading it worthwhile. I’d read the next volume, maybe, if I was bored enough.

After that, I went on to Teen Titans volume 2: Rogue Targets by Will Pfeifer. Another series I wouldn’t mind dropping. Some of these characters are interesting, but we don’t get enough about them to really connect to the Titans. I generally really like DC titles, and I love following all the little Batlings (what I call all the Bat-sidekicks) - but not even Red Robin can make this title worth continuing.

Last, but definitely not least, I read The Motherless Oven by Rob Davis. This one is weird, guys. Very weird. The kind of weird that throws you for a huge loop at the beginning, but as you continue reading, you find yourself just sliding into the world as-is, and going with the flow. This was a recommendation from a friend of mine (he loves the odd ones!), and I’m glad I read it. But that ending… I’m still not over that ending! Grrr.

That’s it for me this week, reading-wise. Friday night, I get to meet Colleen Hoover as part of her It Ends With Us tour. I can’t wait!!!

Happy Reading!

~!~ Amanda, Novel Addiction ~!~

Review: LIMBO by Dan Watters, Caspar Wijngaard

Release Date: June 7th, 2016

Type: Image Comics, Graphic Novel, Stand Alone, Single Volume, Science Fiction, Mythology, Technovoodoo

About the Book: A detective with no memory, no identity, and no manners. A femme fatale seeking escape from a powerful crime lord. A voodoo queen with a penchant for mixtapes and hi-tops. A goat-eating TV... A surreal neon-noir fusing hardboiled pulp with an 80s VHS visual aesthetic, dripping with neon and static. Collecting issues 1 through 6. Writer Dan Watters and artist Caspar Wijngaard are an up-and-coming creative team living and working in the UK. They are currently making their Image Comics debut with the surreal Neon Noir Limbo. [Description from Goodreads.com]

My Review: I'm so glad I took the time between finishing this and trying to review it. I think I needed to let it settle in my brain, to truly wrap my head around everything that happened. But one thought that for sure stuck with me - I still want more. I know this is it, or at least there doesn't seem to be any future issues in the works, but.. I'm not ready for it to end.

Limbo isn't really like anything else I've read. It's very much in the style of my favorite off-the-wall, quirky, beyond belief Image Comics titles. Honestly, if Image Comics publishes it, I will most likely love it. I haven't been let down yet. The techno weirdness reminds me of Saga, if it were set in the not-so-distant past. And the colors have moments that remind me of Five Ghosts. But despite the occasional similarities, Limbo feels wholly original and different.

I liked Clay. I really liked how magic was weaved into technology. A technoshaman? Awesome. A strange tentacled creature with a VHS port? Yes, please. A girl who practices voodoo by playing and dancing to mix tapes? Sign me up. Really, the only thing that kept me from falling 100% in love with this was that the wrap up felt too rushed. This could have benefited from adding one or two more issues, to really make it a cohesive whole. But with the time and space they had, I think the creators did a fantastic job creating a truly unique story.

Cover Lovin': It was enough to make me pick it up out of a line up of comics!

Recommendation: You need to like the odd, unlike-anything type of graphic novels.

Final Rating: FOUR out of FIVE (4/5) stars! Unique, original, and just plain strange. Loved it!

Make sure to get your copy of Limbo my Dan Watters and Caspar Wijngaard today!

Happy Reading!

~!~ Amanda, Novel Addiction ~!~

Disclaimer: I received a free copy from the publisher in exchange for a fair and honest review. 

Weekly Reading Update 5/27 - 6/02/16!

Another week, another update! As always, click the title for more information.

You see my reviews on the blog, but my weekly updates are all about the weird, random, and reviewed-for-other-places reading that I do throughout the week. If you want to see what I read as I read it, as well as my ratings and quickie reviews, be sure to follow me on Goodreads.

Once again, I went graphic novel crazy, so I’ll just list them all quick and move on to the meatier books. It was a mostly Image comics weekend, with a Marvel and DC mixed in for something different. I started with Gotham Academy 2: Calamity by Becky Cloonan, then moved to Miles Morales, Ultimate Spider-man 2: Revelations by Brian Michael Bendis. I then breezed by way through Thief of Thieves 1: “I Quit” by Robert Kirkman, Five Ghosts 2: Lost Coastlines and Five Ghosts 3: Monsters and Men by Frank J. Barbiere. I finished up the comics binge with Morning Glories, Volume 9 by Nick Spencer. Obviously, I had a very busy Friday.

I then moved on to Sticky Fingers by Niki Burnham. I read the Royally Jacked series by her a few months ago, so Goodreads suggested this title to me, and I took the bait. It was an interesting read, a little preachy.. But I think the author dealt with this tough situation really well. It’s not one for the keeper shelf, but I thought it was an entertaining read. Honestly, I would probably look into reading more books by this author.

Next up were a few books for Romance Reviews Today. Rocked by Love by Christine Warren is the fourth book in the Gargoyles series, and it was super fun to read. I really liked the two main characters. I hope the author writes the next book soon so I can get my hands on it! After that I read Wicked Heart by Leisa Rayven - and oh wow. I loved this. I didn’t enjoy Bad Romeo and Broken Juliet as much as the rest of the world (or at least it feels like the rest of the world disagrees with me) - but Wicked Heart more than made up for it!

I’ve been working my way through all of the Tor.com novellas that my library owns, so my next book choice was Binti by Nnedi Okorafor. Guys, seriously.. If you like futuristic science fiction, you need to read this. It was so good! And thankfully, it’s the beginning of a series, so there will be more in the future - I just don’t think I can wait that long. This is probably my second favorite of the ones I’ve read, my first favorite being The Forest of Memory by Mary Robinette Kowal.

Last, but of course not least, I read The Dark Vampire by Kate Baxter, for Romance Reviews Today. I’m super grateful that they keep sending me the next book in the series to read whenever it releases, because this is a fun paranormal romance series.

Happy Reading!

!~ Amanda, Novel Addiction ~!~

Weekly Reading Update 5/13 - 5/19/16

 ( As always, click the link to get more information about each book! )

This was a big graphic novel week for me - mostly because I got back from vacation and had so many holds ready for me to pick up from the library! So I read all the graphic novels first thing, so that I could read them and return them quickly. I went through Guardians Team-Up Volume 1: Guardians Assemble and Guardians of the Galaxy: New Guard Volume 1: Emperor Quill. Both were fun reads, but I'm partial to the "Emperor Quill" book - it has Kitty Pryde in it! I'm a huge Shadowcat fan.

I then moved on to two non-superhero graphic novels. Giant Days: Volume 2 by John Allison, which I absolutely loved. This series is awesome - three girls becoming friends in their first year of college. It's well written, and the illustrations are great! I highly recommend it! Next was Patience by Daniel Clowes - this one was a little trippy. It was definitely an interesting read, but I can't see myself wanting to read it again in the future.

Working in a library, I see a lot of interesting titles go by. And sometimes, they're just so ridiculous that I can't pass up the chance to read them - like the next book, The Detective's 8 lb 10 oz Surprise by Meg Maxwell. It's a Harlequin title, and while I admit to totally binging on them every so often, I usually stick to the Presents line. This book was part of the Special Edition line, which has never been one of my favorites - but this was a pleasant surprise. It was pretty cute! And I even want to read the next book when it releases.

I actually had Wednesday off this week, so I decided to re-read an all-time favorite - Fangirl by Rainbow Rowell! Sometimes you just need a comfort read. I originally read this when I borrowed it from the library. And the second I finished it, I went to Amazon and bought a copy. Last year, Rainbow Rowell was at a local book convention - and alas, I had to work that day. But my friend was able to go, and took my copy of Fangirl! So I have it signed, with a note from Rainbow saying "I'm sorry I missed you!" It makes me smile every time I see it.

I finished the week off with some more comics. Miles Morales: Ultimate Spider-Man 1: Revival by Brian Michael Bendis. Followed that up with Descender, volume 2: Machine Moon by Jeff Lemire - this series is absolutely amazing. But then, it's Jeff Lemire, and he knows what he's doing! Next up was Groot by Jeff Loveness - and yes, that is Groot from Guardians of the Galaxy! Second to last was Jessica Jones: Alias Volume 1 by Brian Michael Bendis. And last, but not least, was Rat Queens, Volume 3: Demons by Kurtis J. Wiebe. Rat Queens is an all-time favorite series. It's a bit like Dungeons and Dragons... but with a lot of four letter words.

It was a very graphic novel week for me, clearly! I read a few actual books as well, I promise - you'll see proof of that next week when my reviews post!

Happy Reading!

~!~ Amanda, Novel Addiction ~!~

Weekly Reading Update! 3/25-3/31/16

This was another week for graphic novels - mostly because I've been so busy that I didn't have much time for anything else.

I finally caught up on Red Hood and the Outlaws, reading both volumes 6 and 7. I was not happy with the ending of 7! Don't do that to me - I love this team, and I refuse to see them turn against each other. I'm not sure if this is the end for the series or not, but I really hope not.. I guess we'll see how it goes.

I also caught up on Aquaman and the Others, reading volume 2. This one was just okay, I prefer Aquaman's single title. It seems this volume comes after some big DC event that I didn't read, so it was more than a little confusing.

Finally, I read Aftershock by Jill Sorenson. Oh wow, was this amazing. I was on edge the entire time, and couldn't put it down - which was rough, considering I am currently dealing with vertigo and reading is not always easy/pleasurable. But this book definitely made it worth it. Check it out if you like Romantic Suspense. I can't wait for the next book to come in at the library!

Happy Reading!

~!~ Amanda, Novel Addiction ~!~

Weekly Reading Update: 3/18 - 3/24/16!

Here we go again - another weekly reading update!

This week, I read a fascinating graphic novel called “Bernie” by Ted Rall. The beginning of the book discusses a brief history of the Democratic party in the 20th and 21st centuries, and then goes on to talk about Bernie Sanders’ policies and how they differ from the modern Leftist beliefs. Along with Bernie’s personal history, it talks about his efforts throughout his life to better his community and the world around him. Great read!

I also read “Gotham Academy Volume 1: Welcome to Gotham Academy” by Becky Cloonan. The only reason I picked this up was because I read an article talking about an upcoming Gotham Academy and Lumberjanes cross over. But now that I’ve read this, I plan to continue with the series. It was a fun read, though I can see it appealing more to those that like DC and Batman, rather than the typical Lumberjanes crowd.

I also read “Love Struck” by Laurelin McGee, to review for Romance Reviews Today. It definitely has a modern day You’ve Got Mail feel to it, since they met on an anonymous forum and know each other only by their usernames - or do they?! This is a cute one. It’s book two in a series, but I hadn’t read book one and still got along fine. Though it makes me want to read the first book, “Miss Match.”

My next goal is to continue to tackle the nonfiction book “The Confidence Game: Why We Fall For It… Every Time” by Maria Konnikova. Anyone that follows my Goodreads page will know my obsession with thieves and con-men - it even has its own shelf! This book talks about just why we fall for cons, and it’s pretty fascinating thus far. But I’ll admit, I’m a slow reader when it comes to nonfiction - it just takes me longer to process actual facts rather than fiction. But it doesn’t mean I enjoy it any less.

Happy Reading
~!~ Amanda, Novel Addiction ~!~

REVIEW: "Faith" issues 1 & 2 by Jody Houser

So I have been hearing so much about Valiant's character Faith. I read a few Valiant titles and really liked them, so I have been eagerly awaiting Faith to come out in graphic novel form. Well, Netgalley put up the first couple issues as a partial galley, so of course I jumped at the chance to get a sneak peek!

Release Date: July 26, 2016

Type: Comics, Graphic Novel, Series, Book 1, Partial Galley, Issues, Nerdtastic

About the Book: VALIANT'S MOST DEMANDED HERO STEPS OUT OF HARBINGER... AND INTO AN ALL-NEW ADVENTURE! Orphaned at a young age, Faith Herbert - a psionically gifted "psiot" discovered by the Harbinger Foundation - has always aspired to greatness. But now this once ordinary teenager is taking control of her destiny and becoming the hard-hitting hero she's always known she can be - complete with a mild-mannered secret identity, unsuspecting colleagues, and a day job as a reporter that routinely throws into her harms way! Well, at least she thought it would... When she's not typing up listicles about cat videos, Faith makes a secret transformation to patrol the night as the City of Angels' own leading superhero - the sky-soaring Zephyr! But flying solo is going to be tougher than she ever thought when Zephyr uncovers a deep-rooted alien conspiracy. Two-bit burglars and car thieves are one thing, but when the world needs a hero to stave off an full-blown extraterrestrial invasion, will Faith find herself in over her head... or ready for her biggest challenge yet? [Description from Netgalley.com]

My Review: I've never judged a comic book on just two issues before, but I can already tell I'm going to enjoy the full volume when it releases. Faith is a fascinating character, and I love her narration. The authors did a great job of making her human alter ego someone I can relate to. Actually, I can relate to her super hero self too - at least the nerdy references. I'm sure there were a few I didn't catch, but usually at least once per page there was some sort of sci-fi or nerd reference. So, being a huge nerd, I was in love.

Faith has apparently featured in another graphic novel series before this, of which I was unaware. She keeps mentioning her former team, so I guess I will have to check that out. It might get confusing for some, I was a little unsure a time or two myself, so forewarned is forearmed!

Cover Lovin': I'm just assuming the cover they have for the partial galley will also be the final cover - and if so, I'm all for it. It would definitely make me grab it off the shelf!

Recommendation: Apparently Faith appeared in another comic series, which I was unaware of, so some of the mentions of the backstory flew right over my head - be forewarned this might happen to you.

Final Rating: It's tough to rate this, since it's only two issues and not a full volume. But judging by these two books - I'm loving this. FOUR out of FIVE stars!

Happy Reading!

~!~ Amanda, Novel Addiction ~!~

Disclaimer: I received a free copy in exchange for a review.

Weekly Reading Update 2/20-2/26/16!

Another Weekly Reading Update! My week started off slow since I had to work all weekend and extra long days during the week, but I still managed to sneak in some reading time.

As we’re still in the midst of the Teen Reading Challenge, I started my weekend with some graphic novels..

The Unbeatable Squirrel Girl, volume 1: Squirrel Power by Ryan North. This was super cute, but I wasn’t wowed like I have been with some other Marvel titles. I’m definitely planning to continue with the second volume, though.

I also read The Adventures of Superhero Girl by Faith Erin Hicks. Goodreads has been recommending this graphic novel to me for years, and I always ignored it. Until I found this list of the best graphic novels written by women - and Superhero Girl was on it. So I broke down and requested it from the library, and now I’m mad at myself for waiting so long! It was great. Definitely check this one out. Girl power!

Another book I had been putting off even though I heard some great things - Ten Tiny Breaths by K.A. Tucker. This is on a list of “Essential New Adult Books” that I found in a book review magazine. I copied down the list of titles, and I’m working my way through them, even though I had already read pretty many on the list. Ten Tiny Breaths was so good. Emotional, gritty… and definitely messed up. But so, so good. I’ve already requested book 2!

I also went on a bit of a Princeless binge.. as in, I read Princeless: The Short Stories, Princeless volume 4, and Princeless: Raven The Pirate Princess. If you like girl power graphic novels, this is definitely a series to pick up. In fact, Raven's book was like Rat Queens, but safer for a younger audience. They're so cute, well written, and everything I could have hoped for when I wanted a good new series to read.

I think that's more than enough for this week.. but don't worry, I have plenty more manga volumes requested from the library, so I will be a reading fool soon enough!

Happy Reading!

~!~ Amanda, Novel Addiction ~!~

Review: The Wicked + The Divine volume 3: Commercial Suicide by Kieron Gillen

Release Date: February 9th, 2016

Type: Graphic novel, Comic books, Image comics, Series, Mythology, Gods and Goddesses everywhere

About the Book: After the detonation of FANDEMONIUM the gods-as-pop-stars of THE WICKED + THE DIVINE try living in the long dark shadow. Team WicDiv are joined by a stellar cast of guest artists to put the spotlight of each of the gods. The multiple Eisner-award nominated series continues in the only way it knows how: darker, weirder, faster. Don't worry. It's going to be okay. [Description from Netgalley.com]

My Review: This series is so addicting, and there's just so many layers to it. I just wish I was able to re-read the previous two volumes before reading this one, so that I can be on top of all the subtleties. I guess I will have to buy them all to refresh myself each time the new one releases.

The plot thickens in this volume, and the gods and goddesses are turning on each other. You can definitely see this volume pushing that story forward, and just who is on the right and wrong side. Or, what we think is the right and wrong side. What I love about this series is that it's so hard to trust anyone because most of them have their own endgame.

It's hard to mention specifics in my review because anything could give away the plots of previous volumes, as well as this one. But trust me, if you like your graphic novels weird and deep, you'll love this series!

Cover Lovin': Fits the rest of the series, so thumbs up there.

Recommendation: You most definitely need to start at the beginning. And it helps to read up the previous volumes to refresh your memory before tackling the new one.

Final Rating: FOUR out of FIVE stars (4/5). Great, deep, magic, weird.. and definitely confusing.

Be sure to get your copy of The Wicked + The Divine today! You won't want to miss this, for sure.

Happy Reading!

~!~ Amanda, Novel Addiction ~!~

Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this in exchange for a fair and honest review.

REVIEW: Adulthood is a Myth: A "Sarah Scribbles" Collection by Sarah Andersen

Release Date: March 8th, 2016

Type: Comic Strips, Humor, Graphic Novel, Millennial Problems, This is my life!

About the Book: Are you a special snowflake? Do you love networking to advance your career? Have you never wasted a fresh new day surfing the internet? Ugh. This book is not for you. Please go away.

Sarah's Scribbles — casually drawn, perfectly on-point comics by young Brooklyn-based artist Sarah Andersen — confront head-on the horrors, anxiety, and awkwardness of modern adult life. From the agony of holding hands with a gorgeous guy to the yawning pit of hell that is the wifi gone down to the eye-watering pain of eating too-hot pizza because one cannot stand to wait for it to cool down, Sarah fearlessly documents it all.

Like the work of fellow Millennial authors Allie Brosh, Grace Helbig, and Gemma Correll, Sarah's total frankness on extremely personal issues such as body image, self-consciousness, introversion, relationships, and bra-washing makes her comics highly relatable and consistently hilarious. [Description from Goodreads.com]

My Review: I'm really mad at myself when it comes to this book. Why, you ask? Because I read it too fast. I loved it, I was laughing out loud more than I care to admit, and because it was so fun, I just kept going. This is, for sure, a one-sitting read. And that makes it that much worse. There needs to be more! I connect with this book on an uncomfortable, awkward, personal level. I would for sure be friends with this author in real life. Assuming we could ever get up the courage to say hello to each other and exchange phone numbers.

Every single page of this hilarious and wonderfully illustrated book is something that I have either felt at some point, or needed to instantly show one of my friends because they would appreciate it. I've seen these comics around before, but if possible, they are even more funny when bound together. This book is for sure going on my wishlist, and I look forward to browsing it time and time again, whenever I need a good chuckle.

Cover Lovin': This cover is 100% perfect. You see the art style, and the minimalist color scheme makes it pop.

Recommendation: This book is for anyone that ever felt like a weirdo introvert. No prior knowledge of the comics is necessary.

Final Rating: FIVE out of FIVE (5/5) stars. My only complaint was that this book wasn't longer. I connected with everything, I laughed out loud multiple times, and I need to purchase this as soon as it's released. A total winner!

Pre-order your copy of "Adulthood is a Myth" by Sarah Andersen today!

Happy Reading!

~!~ Amanda, Novel Addiction ~!~

Disclaimer: I received a free, advanced e-copy of this book in exchange for a honest review. Thanks, Netgalley!

Review: BOB'S BURGERS: MEDIUM RARE by Various

Release Date: November 3rd, 2015

Type: Comic Book, Graphic Novel, TV show tie-in, Humor, Punny Burger Names

About the Book: While Bob and Linda Belcher have their hands full running the family business, their kids Tina, Gene, and Louise have adventures that you won't believe! The producers, writers, and animators of the hit animated show Bob's Burgers proudly present all-original comic book stories, including hilarious installments of "Louise's Unsolved Mysteries & Curious Curiosities," "Tina's Erotic Friend Fiction," and "Gene's Rhymey Rhymes That Could One Day Be Songs." Whether it's Tina's daydreams of cloning back-up dancers or jungle misadventures, Louise's explorations of underground tunnels and time-stopping Wonder Wharf rides, Gene's lyrics that reimagine boring Aunt Gayle visits as epic journeys to fantasy worlds, the Belcher family hijinx are guaranteed to make you laugh! [Description from Netgalley.com]

My Review: So I am a huge Bob's Burgers fan. It's one of my go-to shows if I need to laugh, or just for background noise while I'm working on something. And let me tell you, this graphic novel does not disappoint. You can practically hear the characters' voices as they tell their stories. I could even see them doing these skits in a few of the episodes, if they could find a way to work it all in.

My main issues with this comic, and why it didn't get a gushy perfect rating, were mostly technical details. In Gene's sections (the "Gene's Rhymey Rhymes That Could One Day Be Songs"), the print was so small I had to squint to read it all. And anything involving Linda and Bob was maybe given one page, while Tina, Gene, and Louise's stories went on for multiple pages - sometimes several panels too long.

That said, I still greatly enjoyed this. It's a fast read, and a super fun one. I will definitely be on the lookout for more Bob's Burgers comics in the future!

Cover Lovin': I do like this cover, but I almost wish they had gone with one of the variant covers because there were some seriously hilarious ones.

Recommendation: Some familiarity with the show is recommended before picking up this graphic novel.

Final Rating: FOUR out of FIVE stars (4/5)! Fun just like the show, but some of the little skits were a bit too long.

Get your copy of "Bob's Burgers: Medium Rare" today from Amazon.com!

Happy Reading!

~!~ Amanda, Novel Addiction ~!~

Disclaimer: I received a free e-copy of this in exchange for a fair and honest review. Thanks Netgalley!

A funny for your Friday: "Step Aside, Pops" by Kate Beaton

I read this book some time ago called "Hark! A Vagrant" by Kate Beaton. I probably wouldn't have picked it up, or even known about it, had my library not purchased a copy. But I quickly became obsessed. And then recently I saw there is a second one by that author releasing - "Step Aside, Pops."

Of course I had to request it. And now.. I have a new favorite page..

There's some silly humor in "Step Aside, Pops" and "Hark! A Vagrant." But the humor runs more to the literary and historical set. Very fun to read, especially if you're a book nerd like myself. 

Get your copy today!

Happy Reading! And enjoy your weekend!

~!~ Amanda, Novel Addiction ~!~

Disclaimer: Image is from "Step Aside, Pops" by Kate Beaton - author/illustrator retains all rights to the image.

Review: DRESDEN FILES: DOWN TOWN by Jim Butcher & Mark Powers

Release Date: October 13th, 2015

Type: Series, Magic, Graphic Novel, Comic Book, Wizards, Between the Novels, Urban Fantasy, Science Fiction, Talking Skulls and Such

About the Book: Chicago wizard-for-hire Harry Dresden and his new apprentice, Molly Carpenter, intend to end the havoc caused by a mad sorcerer - one whose ambitions would have the Windy City streets carved out as his own private kingdom. But when the magical upstart enters into an alliance with the notorious mob boss "Gentleman Johnnie" Marcone, will the fast-and-loose Dresden and his young charge survive unscathed? This graphic novel collects the critically acclaimed, six-issue series in one volume, and features a bonus section with Jim Butcher's original story outline, sketchbook artwork from Carlos Gomez, cover gallery with roughs from Stjepan Sejic, and more! [Description from Netgalley.com]

My Review: I like these "between the novels" stories because it lets me get a taste of Dresden's world for a short time. I really enjoy this series, in fact, I consider it a modern day classic in the field of Urban Fantasy. Dresden is a fascinating character, and his friends even more so. All the wacky members of his family (be they blood related or no), add so much to the series, and make it something special - and this graphic novel is no different. In fact, I think Mouse, Molly, and the ever interesting Marcone make this graphic novel more interesting than it would have been if it was just Dresden fighting the bad guy.

There was nothing wrong with this story. I didn't find any major faults. My only comment is that it wasn't so deeply fascinating and magical that I couldn't put it down. It wasn't bad, it just wasn't great. Maybe because this story is so short, it doesn't have the magic of the actual Dresden novels. But this was good enough to hold me over until Dresden gets his next book.

Cover Lovin': Looks good, and fits with the other Dresden Files graphic novels I have seen.

Recommendation: At least some familiarity with Dresden is recommended prior to reading this. Background information is included for those that might not be caught up, but there's a lot of little stuff that will leave the reader confused or unsure if they're not familiar with the series.

Final Rating: THREE POINT FIVE out of FIVE stars (3.5/5).

Check out some of the other Dresden Files Graphic Novels!

Happy Reading!

~!~ Amanda, Novel Addiction ~!~

Disclaimer: I received a free, advanced e-copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review.

Review: "ALEX + ADA Volume 3" by Jonathan Luna and Sarah Vaughn

Release Date: August 25th, 2015

Type: Series, Book 3, Graphic Novel, Comics, Comic Books, Science Fiction, Androids, Robots, Romance, Futuristic, Heartbreaking

About the Book: The last thing in the world Alex wanted was an X5, the latest in realistic androids. But after Ada is dropped into his life, he discovers she is more than just a robot. Alex takes a huge risk to unlock Ada so she can think for herself and explore life as a sentient android. As Alex and Ada spend more time together, they become closer. But as restrictions tighten on artificial intelligence, Ada feels unsure about her place in the world, and Alex questions being with an android. In this final arc, Alex and Ada struggle against the growing hatred for sentient robots and their human allies. Can they survive what's around the corner? 

Collects Alex + Ada #11-15. [Synopsis from Goodreads.com]

My Review: I probably wouldn't have picked up the first book in this series had my fellow librarian not purchased it for out system. So I gave it a chance, and I was blown away. I desperately sought out the next volume, and when the third came up on Netgalley, I jumped at the chance to review it. This series feels so fresh and different.. and heartbreaking. Well, I think it ended perfectly, but I am heartbroken mostly because it is over. I think it would have been different had I read this in single issues over the course of several months. But I was lucky enough to read it all quickly - too quickly.

People of all ages can find some parallel between Alex and Ada's dilemma and that of the real world - minority rights/interracial marriage, even same sex marriage and rights. And it is horrible to think that two adults who love each other might be unable to be together. This volume sees the end of Alex and Ada's story, and considering the political environment at the time, there is no way it's going to end well. And it doesn't. Alex's life is forever changed, and unbelievably hard. I wish I could spoil it for everyone, only because I want someone to talk to about it - but I wouldn't ruin this for you for the world.

It's a great series, guys... you need to check it out for yourself!

Cover Lovin': Fits the rest of the series. Simple, but tastefully done.

Recommendation: You absolutely MUST read the series in order - which is not really a recommendation, but a requirement, trust me. For fans of science fiction/futuristic graphic novels, or those that love social issues.

Final Rating: FIVE out of FIVE stars (5/5)!!! Wow, seriously. This was a series for the ages. And what a great way to end it!

Order the series now!

Happy Reading!

~!~ Amanda, Novel Addiction ~!~

Disclaimer: I received a free, advanced e-copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. 

Review: APOLLO: THE BRILLIANT ONE by George O'Connor

Disclaimer: I received a free, advanced e-copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review.

Release Date: January 26, 2016

Type: Graphic Novel, Comic Books, First Second Books, Mythology, Series, Book 8, Teen/Young Adult, Just Call Me The Brillaint One

About the Book: George O'Connor's popular Olympians graphic novel series continues with Apollo. Told by the Muses, readers will encounter some of the most famous Greek myths featuring the god of music and prophecy.

My Review: Another good Olympians book! I originally picked this series up a few years ago when I needed a nonfiction graphic novel book for my Library Services to Young Adults class - and I have not been disappointed since. George O'Connor clearly knows his mythology, and does an excellent job bringing it to life in this full color book.

Apollo is often linked to the Muses, and O'Connor uses that in this book. Each of Apollo's stories is told by one (or more) of the Muses, further linking them together in the reader's mind. What I like best about these graphic novels is that they are great for visual learners. Mythology is a fun topic for a lot of middle schoolers, and can even be a great gateway into reading. But for those that might struggle with the stories, the Olympians series is a great go-to. I've pimped these books out plenty at my own library to middle grade and young adult readers.

Cover Lovin': Nice one. The image of Apollo fighting the serpent is one of the stories in the book - and definitely makes for a rockin' cover.

Recommendation: For fans of Greek Mythology, this series is a definite go to. I also think this series would be great for a reluctant reader struggling with Greek Mythology.

Final Rating: FOUR out of FIVE stars (4/5). A great read! The illustrations are great, and the story structure presents the myths in a fun way.


                                       Happy Reading!

~!~ Amanda, Novel Addiction~!~

Review: BATMAN AND ROBIN 6: THE HUNT FOR ROBIN by Peter Tomasi

Disclaimer: I received a free, advanced e-copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. 

Release Date: June 30, 2015

Type: Graphic Novel, Comics, Comic Books, Superheroes, Batman and the Batlings, Hard to have Batman and Robin without Robin..

About the Book: After losing his son Damian—a.k.a. Robin—Batman has finally found peace with his death. Damian's grandfather Ra's al Ghul, however, has not. In order to resurrect Robin, he's stolen the body and now Batman will stop at nothing to reclaim him. 

Nearly two years of storylines—including threads from Grant Morrison's BATMAN INCORPORATED and Scott Snyder and Greg Capulo's BATMAN—conclude here in BATMAN AND ROBIN VOL. 6: THE HUNT FOR ROBIN. 

Collects BATMAN AND ROBIN #29-34 and ROBIN RISES OMEGA. [Description from Netgalley.com]

My Review: Despite Robin being no longer with us, he still has a strong presence in this graphic novel series. But then, I guess it is hard to continue a series bearing his namesake without having him there in some way shape or form. My biggest issue with this graphic novel, was that it felt like since they couldn't team Batman up with Robin, they would just team him up with whomever else was handy - Aquaman, Wonder Woman, even Frankenstein. In a way, it makes sense - hard to have a series based on a team up without some sort of team-ing happening. But it just felt rushed and so-so.

What I think this series does well is the tiny bits of humor they manage to sneak into such a dark series. Even in Bruce's moments of lightness and healing, though they be very few and far between, it is still gritty, like a true Batman comic should be. As a fan of Robin in all his (or maybe her?) forms, I was happen to see a small reunion of former title holders, though I will not spoil how or why.

There is a lot this series does well - the tone, the story lines.. but I will be happy to either move on from Damien, or find a way to bring him back to the story. Frankly, I would prefer bringing him back. I loved Damien. Not my favorite of the past and present sidekicks, but he had his own flair, and I loved seeing him and Bruce work together.

Cover Lovin': Very fitting cover. This title may be called Batman and Robin, but Robin is not exactly in the picture any more - as this cover accurately portrays.

Recommendation: For hardcore Bat-fans, and only for those that have kept up with this series. This is not a volume you can just pick up without the backstory.

Final Rating: FOUR out of FIVE stars (4/5). Good, but not as dark and gritty as it used to be. This felt like it was missing something (maybe Robin?!).

Happy Reading!

~!~ Amanda, Novel Addiction ~!~

Review: MANGA CLASSICS: EMMA by Stacy King & Po Tse

Disclaimer: I received a free e-copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. Thanks Netgalley!

Type: Manga Classics, Graphic Novel, Jane Austen, Historical Romance, Not-as-good-as-Johnny-Lee-Miller

Release Date: May 12, 2015

About the Book: Just in time for the 200th Anniversary, Manga Classics: Emma brings Jane Austen's classic tale of youthful folly and romantic exuberance to a modern audience with this beautiful, new manga adaptation. The impulsive match-making of Emma Woodhouse delivers both humor and heartache through the gorgeous artwork of manga-ka Po Tse (Manga Classics: Pride and Prejudice). - Manga Classics editions feature classic stories, faithfully adapted and illustrated in manga style, and available in both hardcover and softcover editions. Proudly presented by UDON Entertainment and Morpheus Publishing. [Description from Goodreads.com]

My Review: I love Jane Austen. I really like reading manga. This should be a match made in heaven, but honestly, it felt more run of the mill, very middle of the road. I think Emma has to be my least favorite of Austen's novels. I find Emma herself to be very childish sometimes, which gets on my nerves. And I got the same impression while reading the Manga Classics: Emma. But if you think about it, that is a good thing. Why? Because that means this manga adaptation of a classic, well beloved novel appropriately portrays the spirit of the original.

There are several graphic novel interpretations of Austen's work out there, the styles ranging from overly cartoony to very life-like. Manga Classics: Emma is very much in the manga style - including chibi figures in moments of high emotion. While this is something I have come to understand and even appreciate in manga, a friend of mine read it and felt that it made the classic novel feel immature. I appreciated the art throughout this graphic novel. The characters were consistent, the outfits fitting and looked appropriate for the time period. I just wished Mr. Knightley would have looked a little less like a cheap villain - it was the strange goatee that did him in, I think.

Overall, this was a good adaptation. It's hard to review a graphic novel version of a classic without it becoming a strange compare and contrast, so I have done my best. Manga Classics: Emma has done well taking a book full of complex characters and intertwining story-lines and making it not only understandable, but a fast and fun read.

Cover Lovin': This is certainly a very sweet looking cover. And I'm stuck thinking it both does and does not convey the story very well.

Recommendation: This is one of those niche books. Austen-ites (Jane-ites?) would eat it up - anything for a new Austen fix. But it probably won't appeal to anyone that doesn't already like manga, considering manga is incredibly stylized.

Final Rating: THREE out of FIVE (3/5). A good adaptation, but not the best of the Manga Classics by far.

Happy Reading!

~!~ Amanda, Novel Addiction ~!~

REVIEW: Batgirl 1: The Batgirl of Burnside by Brenden Fletcher, Cameron Stewart, and Babs Tarr

Disclaimer: I received a free, advanced e-copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. 

Release Date: June 16th, 2015

Type: Graphic Novel, Comics, Comic Books, Superheroes, Girl Power, Motorcycle Assassins?

About the Book: It’s a reinvention of Batgirl from the boots up, focusing on Barbara Gordon’s amazing eidetic memory and how she balances her dual lives—one as a masked hero and the other as a grad student.

The new creative team of Cameron Stewart (BATMAN AND ROBIN, SEAGUY, SEVEN SOLDIERS), Brenden Fletcher and Babs Tarr set Barbara Gordon off in a brand-new direction in BATGIRL VOL. 1! Collects BATGIRL #35-40 and a story from SECRET ORIGINS #10.

Batgirl Vol. 1: The Batgirl of Burnside will also be available in a $24.99 hardcover volume. [Information from Netgalley.com]

My Review: This is one of those volumes that I put down after two issues, and it took me a few days to pick it back up. But I'm glad I did, and not just because I promised a review. While this is a volume one, it is also a continuation of Batgirl's story from previous story arcs, so it shouldn't have felt like it was on unsteady legs, but it did. The very beginning of this volume felt juvenile. I like Batman and all this former sidekicks because the story lines are usually dark and gritty, but Batgirl didn't have that going for it. It wasn't until the latter half of this book that I finally got into it.

The villains of each issue felt like the whole thing was some sort of joke. And when the final review came about, the mastermind behind all the recent crimes, I almost laughed out loud. I won't spoil it for you, but.. Really? That's what they came up with? Like out of some super cheesy straight-to-DVD science fiction movie. And sure, not all of Batman's villains are A-listers, but at least they can feel scary during the action. Not here.

So you may be wondering why I was enjoying this by the end. And for me, what saved this graphic novel, enough for me to give it a three star rating, was the secondary characters and relationships within the novel. Babs/Batgirl's friendships were compelling. And there was multiple examples of diversity throughout the graphic novel, including quite a few kick-butt chicks - something much needed in the comic book world.

Cover Lovin': This is a cute cover, for sure. And it goes along with one of the later story lines in the book.

Recommendation: For fans of the Batlings, or Batgirl specifically. Or Superhero junkies.

Final Rating: THREE out of FIVE (3/5). An interesting start to Batgirl's move to Burnside.

Happy Reading!

~!~ Amanda, Novel Addiction ~!~