Love the Way You Love, Side A: Songs of Faith

Merideth says: Tristan is the Morrisey-esque singer of LA Band Like A Dog. Just returning from an impromptu overseas trip, he plays the gig that could send Like a Dog into the stratosphere -- and sees the perfect girl out in the audience. Isobel, the girl, is instantly drawn to Tristan as well, but is already engaged to Marcus. Marcus is a record company exec who wants to sign Tristan's band. The machinations of this unusual love triangle make up the first volume of this series.

While the setup might feel contrived, this unabashedly romantic graphic novel will pull you right in. Rich is a master of GN romance, and he manages to make the instant connection between Isobel and Tristan feel organic and believable. Marcus is a bit of a one show more note character, although you can see Rich attempting to flesh him out. Isobel's best friend Brendan is a kick though, as is Tristan's little brother.

My main criticism with this book has to do with the art work. Ellerby's work is an acquired taste, and I have to say that it doesn’t speak to me. Visually similar to Brian Lee O'Malley with spare lines and few grey tones, but lacking O'Malley's exuberance and expression, I can't help but feel that this would be a stronger book with a different illustrator. The covers gallery, featuring work by the amazing Chynna Clugston, adds weight to that supposition.

Susan says - This is a good graphic novel about love and where and when you find it or it finds you. Tristan has just broken up with his girlfriend when he sees someone through the crowd – first at the airport and then at his band’s concert that night. It seems like fate, only she is involved with another man, a record executive who wants to sign his band. This book has some funny moments and funny characters, but it is mostly about finding yourself and what love means to each person. To the record exec, his fiancée is someone who looks good with him, and he tends to either treat her like a jerk or like a queen. Tristan and his aptly named Isobel have an instant connection that they believe will unite them forever. Aah, young love. This is the first in a series – the combination of the music scene and the romance make me want to keep reading. show less