Harlan Ellison's Phoenix Without Ashes

I'm torn on this one. I honestly didn't realize that this was based on a series that flopped, until I read a few other reviews. I know that this wasn't specifically my cup of tea, but I'll explain what I did and did not like as best I can.

The illustrations are detailed, and there is a nice use of light vs. dark to depict the overall tone of each page. In terms of setting, I'd relate it most closely to an Amish homestead. I believe John K. Snyder III is the illustrator, if I'm correct. He does a great job of showing the simplicity in which these people live. As the story progresses and things take a turn for the odd, the panels are more and more detailed and lovely. I really enjoyed Phoenix Without Ashes in this respect.

It was the story where things fell short for me. Devon's character wasn't really fleshed out very well at all, and a lot of the story was rushed through so quickly I felt confused. I really didn't get to know Devon at all. Except of course that he was a heretic and in love with a woman he shouldn't want. I know this is a graphic novel and that means there isn't as much room for story, supposedly. Really though, there is. I've read many a graphic novel where the sparse words and beautiful illustrations marry together to form a cohesive and wonderful experience. This one just didn't do that for me.

Final verdict? It was a good read, but not something I'll pursue further into the series. I would still recommend it to those of you who have an interest in Fantasy/Science Fiction graphic novels. It might be more your cup of tea than mine!