Ted Anderson

This has got to be my favorite of the Fiendship is Magic series! The Sirens aren't my favorite villains ever, but they're definitely creepy and effective. What really makes me love this comic is the humor sprinkled throughout and the way Starswirl the Bearded tries to fight the Sirens. I wasn't totally satisfied with the conclusion and how easy it was for him to just resort to the mirror, but other than that I really enjoyed it.

The premise isn’t a bad idea, but the execution is like using Hello Kitty stickers instead of duct tape. I don’t mind silly or ridiculous stories, but I just didn’t get this one. Josie’s been drugged and programmed all throughout her life, and the truth comes out after a fateful trip to Paris. But it’s so matter-of-factly. Her mom just owns up to it. While Josie is happy to be in control of her life again, I thought she didn’t have a strong enough reaction to basically being a show more robot, test dummy.

Also, Josie’s high school friend Zoe is prominently in the story. She doesn’t add much besides a joke or two, but I liked her.

The artwork is very simple and flat-colored. It can feel unfinished, at times, and there are few in-between shots of movement. But I liked the reddish-peach color scheme.

If you just want something fast-paced, action-packed, and nonsensical, then this isn’t a bad option. Just don’t expect to understand anything or connect with the characters on a deep level.

1.5 [rating from enjoyment] show less

SIDE EFFECTS is a graphic novel about Hannah, a college student struggling with anxiety and depression. When she starts seeing a therapist and gets a prescription for medication, she realizes she's having some unusual side effects...like telepathy and electrocution.

There is so much to like here - the message, the story, the characters, the art style. It's a fun read that isn't just good on a surface level. While the plot is fairly expected once you get going, that's not a detriment to the show more story; instead, it proves the importance of growth and getting better. I'd recommend this read to anyone who enjoys a graphic novel with heart.

Thank you to Aftershock Comics and NetGalley for providing a copy for review. show less

This was a fun and quick read. The graphics were pretty cool, very futuristic and colorful, and the story line was very catchy and enjoyable. I love how the gender identity was tied in with the many different faces that Nikki was given. Over all this was a good Graphic-Novel I hope there is a follow up of Nikki's story and his parents.