WardenRed reviewed The Golden Age, Book 1 by Cyril Pedrosa
None
4 stars
Tomorrow, I shall inherit a kingdom that is hurting.
I'll be honest: most of the stars I've given this graphic novel are for the artwork. It's truly gorgeous: somewhat dreamlike, with distinct medieval vibes, with some expressive and original use of color. The story itself is so-so; it's not that I find it bad in any way, it's just... pretty predictable for me? This first volume, at least, makes it seem pretty straightforward: a kind princess is about to inherit the kingdom and genuinely wants to care for her subjects; a coup by evil nobles with her younger brother as a figurehead sends her into an exile; rescued by a handful of allies, she sets out to travel the troubled lands and learn much about herself and her Kingdom in the process. The structure so far seems to adhere closely to the classic Hero's Journey.
Still, the story isn't without …
Tomorrow, I shall inherit a kingdom that is hurting.
I'll be honest: most of the stars I've given this graphic novel are for the artwork. It's truly gorgeous: somewhat dreamlike, with distinct medieval vibes, with some expressive and original use of color. The story itself is so-so; it's not that I find it bad in any way, it's just... pretty predictable for me? This first volume, at least, makes it seem pretty straightforward: a kind princess is about to inherit the kingdom and genuinely wants to care for her subjects; a coup by evil nobles with her younger brother as a figurehead sends her into an exile; rescued by a handful of allies, she sets out to travel the troubled lands and learn much about herself and her Kingdom in the process. The structure so far seems to adhere closely to the classic Hero's Journey.
Still, the story isn't without its appeal. I like how the medieval society is painted from all angles, showing its specifics through the eyes of nobles and peasants alike. There are hints at bigger mysteries and powers at play: I'm intrigued by the secluded female community with their Golden Age book. The fantasy elements so far are pretty subtle and I'm interested in seeing how that storyline unfolds. And the volume ends on a weird twist that sure makes me want to get my hands on future installments.
Overall, a good story with interesting worldbuilding, and the art alone makes it really worth it.
