This graphic novel series is so compelling, as soon as I finished the first book I needed to start book two. The only problem is that book three was not available for after I finished book two. Ah, now the waiting game... The book has an intricately detailed Universe that functions through a monarchy, while being technologically advanced. The cosmoknights are fashioned after medieval knights, in which they fight in the name of their sponsors (like their feudal lords). They also wear tech armor instead of chain mail, with really advanced weapons. But, like any royal system, the only people who can possibly win the hand of the princesses, and gain more power, are the already wealthy. It is a flawed patriarchal society where most are poor and few are rich. Sound familiar? The characters are phenomenal. Pan meets up with a butch female cosmoknight Cass and her skilled pilot wife, Bee. Cass and Bee are not at all what they seem and their story had me so invested. I love them and their relationship, and their growth throughout both books. They speak openly to each other, and generally have each others back, but they still fight and push when boundaries are at stake. Cass has a hard time listening to Bee, but she acknowledges and apologizes for this. Kate is fire! She is so smart ad sneaky and I need to know her back story, which I think we will get in book three. I love her cyborg bits, like her cyber foot heel! The addition of an actual princess in book two finally gave voice to this group of women that are being possessed by both the system and their would be saviors. Plus, Scottie and her weird pet Percy are just stinking adorable and noble. Spoilers Ahead for Book two: Then, in book two, we are introduced to a band of pirates, headed by none other than Pan's bestie, Tara. This brings in another facet to this Universes dichotomy. These pirates have secrets as well, and I am looking forward to seeing just how diabolical or devious their plans are. Are they really on Pan's side, or is there something more to their willingness to help the princess and this team take on the entire monarchical system? It seemed Tara was beholden to another group above her, will they be on board with the decision to take on all those in the royal families? The illustrations are vibrant, and are very reminiscent of space. But, the illustrations also highlight the wealth and abundance of one group and the peasant life of the other group. The flow of art helps to project the class differences throughout the graphic novels. I found the second book to be even more colourful and striking, as the women come in to their own and begin their quest to change all that is wrong with their worlds. Just such a thrilling and poignant look at societies treatment of those they deem inferior. These graphic novels wowed me, one of the best graphic novel series I have read recently. And for nostalgia's sake, it reminded me a bit of both Robotech and Escaflowne (in art style and story for Robotech, and in basic theme for Escaflowne). Both of those were favourites of mine throughout middle and high school. Book OneBook Two
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