Review: The Authority (1999-2002): Book One

The Authority (1999-2002): Book One by Warren Ellis
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I regret not coming to this story sooner; it was a title I’d long been aware of, but had never actually read. Ultimately, this graphic novel represents a fantastic marriage of story and art—it is a prime example of exactly what the medium can achieve.

As a fan of Bryan Hitch’s work since his Marvel UK days, I can see that this was the turning point that elevated him from an artist to a true storyteller. While Warren Ellis is a fantastic writer, it’s Hitch who gives this title its massive impact. A special shout-out must also go to the brilliant inks by the late Paul Neary (another deeply familiar name from the Marvel UK era).

Did anyone else spot the Dez Skinn reference? A lovely little nod to those classic roots.

Give this a try—especially if you're a fan of The Ultimates. Now, it's time for me to do a bit of exploration into Stormwatch.

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Review: The Water That Falls on You from Nowhere

The Water That Falls on You from Nowhere by John Chu
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

An interesting short story exploring a gay relationship up against the views of a traditional Chinese family. It has a fascinating sci-fi premise: if you lie, water falls on you. There's no rhyme or reason given for why this happens, and as a big sci-fi reader, I loved that it was left unexplained. The concept drives the plot without ever distracting from the story's real heart: love conquering intolerance.

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Review: The Water That Falls on You from Nowhere

The Water That Falls on You from Nowhere by John Chu
My rating: 4 of 5 stars



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Review: The Subtle Art of Folding Space

The Subtle Art of Folding Space by John Chu
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Let me start by saying that there were some genuinely interesting aspects to this book; I particularly liked the metaphysical nature of the world-building.

While I don't entirely agree with comments claiming the book is hard to follow, I can see where they are coming from. The world-building is solid, but it could have been made a bit more accessible for casual readers.

Additionally, I was left wanting more from the resolution. It felt like there were little to no consequences for the actions taken. As for the sister, there were moments when she felt a bit two-dimensional, and I would have liked to see more exposition regarding her character. The final big confrontation also felt a little short.

All in all, I enjoyed the book. It introduces some genuinely interesting concepts, but it ultimately could have been expanded a bit. I hope this is the start of a series, as I would love to see a further exploration of these characters—in particular, the sister.

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Review: The Subtle Art of Folding Space

The Subtle Art of Folding Space by John Chu
My rating: 3 of 5 stars



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Review: A Darker Magic

A Darker Magic by Glynn Stewart
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Another great book in the Starship's Mage series.

Whilst some I notice have bemoaned the minor appearances of Damion the titular mage I for one have enjoyed once again seeing Roselyn develop as a character. She is once again thrown into the fray at the behest of Mars and *possible spoiler* handles the somewhat inevitable maelstrom with aplomb.

I'm pretty sure we will see her become a hand at some point and can't wait to see how her character progresses in subsequent books.

Yes, it would be nice to see DM more often in the stories but, his elevated position somewhat necessitates the rise of other principle protagonists.

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Review: The Infinity Gauntlet

The Infinity Gauntlet by Jim Starlin
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

What can I say really? this is one of those classic Marvel stories.
To my chagrin it is also one which I have not previously read despite my love for comics and Marvel. In fairness it has actually been on my self for a while and finally decided it was time to read it.

If you have seen the movie story-line, it will come as no surprise that it varies a fair bit. The comic tale is deeper includes a myriad of characters not included in the movies (for legal reasons and those of brevity). I've always liked Adam Warlock as a character and was patiently waiting for his appearance but, I was left a little flat. I understand that the movies could not replicate his key role in the story in the way the comic did but, I felt they could have done more.

One of the key differences is one of Thanos' motives. I've always found it amusing that the true reason for the "snap" was one of love. In his desperation to woo lady Death he effectively kills half the universe. Less of the moral justification present in the movies.

If you want a timeless Marvel tale with a little more depth than the movies and a greater roster of characters then give this a read

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