I consider myself lucky to have been able to read Archeologists of Shadows. It’s not very often that when I see the first panel of a book that my mind is blown. And let me assure you that this graphic novel from Septagon Studios did just that. Before I get further into this review I want to say that I am not a fan of steampunk. I don’t really “get it.” When I read the brief description of AoS was a “science-fiction/fantasy/steampunk mash-up”, I was worried. But, all of those elements manage to come together perfectly in the art, and in the story.
AoS takes place in a world where living creatures are slowly transforming into mechanical beings. It’s established early on that the Authorities oversee the transformations and severely punish those that aren’t making the change. But even though the Authorities think they are helping to fulfill the will of the gods, no one is quite sure why everything is changing.
The story follows Baltimo and Alix, two people who are naturally resisting the mechanical change. They leave the only place they have ever known in search of their destiny, but in doing so they become fugitives. The Resistance helps them a long their journey until they meet the Archeologists of Shadows who help them realize their fate.
Lara Fuentes’ writing throws you right into the middle of things without any backstory. It makes for a jarring read early on as there are a lot of things up in the air that you’re wondering about. But, once all of the pieces begin to fall into place, you start to develop a feel for the characters and events. Actually, you share a lot of the confusion with Baltimo and Alix. You both don’t know what’s really going on, and like Baltimo and Alix, you are just along for the ride. If the decision to parallel the reader with the protagonists was intentional, then I applaud it. As this is the first volume, the story leaves you hanging, but it just makes you anxious for the second volume to be released.
Now the main selling point, at least for me, was Patricio Clarey’s artwork. It’s difficult to put into words how amazing the art is, but I’m going to make the attempt. The amount of work that went into the creation of the images in AoS is astounding. You can head over to the Archeologists of Shadows website where you can read all about the different techniques, but I’ll summarize them here. Drawing, sculpture, photography, photo manipulation, and digital painting all work together to create art that feels real.
As I said before, I’m no fan of steampunk, but the character designs are fabulous. Being able to incorporate the different shapes and designs into a being that still looks human is impressive. Even though they are transitioning into a mechanical form, the characters still retain their humanoid appearance, not just in their bodies, but their facial construction too.If you’ve read any review I’ve written, you know facial expressions are a main sticking point with me. Even thought the faces are mechanical, you can still read the expressions as well as with a normal face. If you cannot already tell, I’m a fan of Clarey’s art.
All in all, I was enthralled by Archeologists of Shadows. While it may take a little while for you to feel comfortable with what’s going on, you’ll end this first volume wanting more. I’m curious to learn what the gods’ plan is, and how Baltimo and Alix fit into it. I’m eagerly awaiting more of the magnificent artwork. Honestly, the digital copy of AoS I read was detailed enough that I want a hard copy (where can I get that?). One last thing that I thought was innovative was the paneling. Usually panels in a comic are broken up by straight lines, but in this graphic novel the panels are separated by lead piping. Given the look of the book, it was a great choice. Do yourself a favor and head over to the AoS website I linked to and check out the gallery, you won’t be disappointed.
Art: 11/10
Script: 7.5/10
Parental concern: None.
I know the art rating isn’t possible, but this is my review and the artwork is that good!
Cool beans, I think I might like this.
