Graphic Novel Review – Agatha Heterodyne and the Chapel of Bones (Girl Genius, Book 8) by Phil and Kaja Foglio (5/5 stars)

Reading Level: Adult
Genre: Steampunk/Graphic Novel
Length: 144 pages
Publisher: Studio Foglio
Release Date: August 18, 2009
ISBN-13: 978-1890856472
Stand Alone or Series: 8th book in the Girl Genius series
Source: Gift
Rating: 5/5 stars

This is the eighth TP in the wonderful Girl Genius gaslight fantasy graphic novel series. These books are just so much fun! This was one of the best books in this series so far.

Agatha has finally made it into Heterodyne Castle, now she needs to repair the castle. Except the castle is constantly trying to kill her, as is the pretend Agatha who entered the castle before her. Luckily it ends up Agatha knows a lot of people who have been imprisoned in the castle and some of her friends have decided to join her as well.

I continue to really love this steampunk graphic novel series. It’s full of wonderful adventure, steampunk devices, and some magic. I love the brightly colored illustration and all the action.

There are hilarious scenes with Gilgamesh and his gigantic laser that had me laughing out loud, not to mention what is up with that crazy hat? Really he has some hilarious scenes in this book. Agatha really comes into power as she goes on a mission to convince Castle Heterodyne that yes, she is the last Heterodyne.

Then there is the amazing Castle Heterodyne itself, it’s just so cool! I love the personality it has and how it is fractured throughout the castle. I also really enjoyed some of the spectacular defenses the castle launched, the torchmen are really really nifty.

Overall I am still really loving this series. This is one of the best books in the series yet. These are so funny, which so many neat steampunk elements, a complex story, wonderfully quirky characters, action, magic, and romance. Really it’s just a wonderfully fun read that I highly recommend to graphic novel fans!