CET Writes

Image from goodreads.com This adaptation of the Hero Cycle tells the tale of misunderstood twins Shawn and Sam Stronghand who are enthralled body, mind, and spirit by the darkest of metal. Backmasking the latest Frost Axe album catapults the brothers into an epic quest that ultimately reveals their destiny. This is an interesting read that seems to avoid taking itself too seriously for the first half. Unfortunately, mid-way through the tone shifts - as if Spears became so involved in the telling of the story that he forgot to maintain the tongue-and-cheekiness that made it a far more endearing read. Black Metal b y Rick Spears Secondary Oni Press 464pp. Published 2014 ISBN 978-620101438 $24.99

Image from goodreads.com Zoe is dissatisfied with her station in life when she stumbles upon Thomas Rocher and the literary scandal that just might provide an entrée to the good life she seeks. This is a lighthearted read with a fun twist at the end. Unfortunately, the protagonist's ENTIRE plan for success is solely based on being a human leech. That having been said, if you don't read too much into it, this can be a pleasant way to kill an hour while at the salon having a pedicure. Exquisite Corpse b y Pénélope Bagieu Secondary First Second 124pp. Published 2015 ISBN 978-1626720824 $22.99

Image from penguinrandomhouse.com Whereas June--a military prodigy--is born into an elite family in one of the wealthiest districts, Day--the country's most wanted criminal--is born into the slums. Their paths cross when Day is the prime suspect in the murder of June’s brother. As June desperately tries to avenge his death, she comes to understand that neither Day nor the Republic are as sinister or virtuous as they seem. Legend: The Graphic Novel is a fun read that not only makes a nice companion to the original text but is also capable of standing alone as a work. Moreover, reading graphic adaptations can be employed as a clever means of remaining up-to-date with currently popular literature without the investment required by the fuller works. Legend: The Graphic Novel Adapted by Leigh Dragoon Secondary G.P. Putnam's Sons Books for Young Readers 160pp. Published 2015 ISBN 978-0399171895 $14.99 Dystopian

Image from amazon.com In this second book of the Last Man series, Richard Aldana continues his unconventional winning streak as one half of an even more unconventional pairing - showing himself a likely contender for the Royal Cup. As The Royal Cup is to The Stranger , Empire Strikes Back is to A New Hope. This is the point in the series where the exposition, world building, and character development gel, creating a synergy that energizes the reader and propels the story. In short, things have just gotten good, and it will be interesting to see where this French manga takes us! Although one might be tempted to write this series off as merely Shonen, the blending of action, adventure, fantasy, martial arts, and romance give the series a depth that will appeal to fans of many different genres. Last Man:  The Royal Cup (Book 2) by Balak, Michaël Sanlaville, Bastien Vivès Secondary First Second 208pp. Published 2015 ISBN 978-1626720473 $9.99