Graphic Novel Review – The Broken Halo (Deadendia, Vol 2) by Hamish Steele (4/5 stars)
Reading Level: Young Adult
Genre: Paranormal/Graphic Novel
Length: 244 pages
Publisher: Nobrow
Release Date: November 5, 2019
ISBN-13: 978-1910620625
Stand Alone or Series: 2nd volume in the Deadendia series
Source: ARC from Amazon Vine
Rating: 4/5 stars
“It’s been weeks since Dead End was destroyed and as it reopens as a hotel, resident tour guide turned hotel manager Norma is determined to leave the ghosts of the past where they belong. But with her friendship with Barney up in the air and angels and demons using the hotel as their literal wrestling ring, Norma soon finds that unwanted ghosts can appear at any moment, especially when they’re your own.”
Series Info/Source: 2nd book in the Deadendia graphic novel series. Got a copy from Amazon Vine for review.
Story (4/5): This book continues the quirky and crazy story that started in the first book. Dead End has been reopened as a hotel and features an elevator that travels between the different planes of heaven and hell (with Earth be a neutral in-between plane). Norma is still struggling to keep her ghost in her body and her friendship with Barney is on the rocks. Barney decides to take up demonic wrestling and the next thing Norma knows, the hotel has turned into the location for a literally hellish wrestling ring and Barney is the star.
This book is so off the wall and weird that I love it. I felt like this book wasn’t quite as unique as the first one, but still really enjoyed it. It also wasn’t as humorous as the first book in the series. That being said this was still highly entertaining and well done. I did really like Courtney’s back story and how this tied in with everything else.
Characters (4/5): I really continue to enjoy the crazy characters throughout. Barney is trying to make something of himself (no matter how misguided he is). Norma is struggling to stay attached to her body. We learn a ton about Courtney’s history and how he ended up becoming a demon. Each chapter starts with a character profile showing their ratings for style, bravery, etc. The characters are a big part of what make this a great story.
Setting (4/5): I love the Dead End hotel and the different planes of Heaven and Hell. The whole world is very creative and fun.
Writing/Drawing Style (4/5): I enjoy the illustration style here a lot. It’s very cartoony with bright colors. It’s easy to follow and fun to read. Dialogue sounds natural and the story is well written.
Summary (4/5): Overall, although I didn’t enjoy this book as much as the first in the series…I still liked it a lot. I think part of the novelty of this crazy world and insane characters has worn off for me a bit. However, the illustration and story were still very entertaining and well done. I would recommend to those who enjoy off-the-wall paranormal graphic novels.
