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Stoneheart #1 – Image Comics
Creative Team: Emma Kubert
Welcome to an all new edition of Parlay Points, the comic book review blog for the ODPH podcast by way of the Nerd Initiative!
For this entry, we’re checking out a debut fantasy series from Image Comics featuring a writer/artist that has been crushing it on fantastic books like Frank Miller’s Pandora, RADIANT PINK and INKBLOT. Stoneheart #1 by Emma Kubert introduces readers to the wildly imaginative world of Shayde Whisper, a character that is sure to have fans talking. The mystery behind Whisper and the land of Athea is about to unfold, so let’s not delay any longer and check out what’s happening, shall we?
*** POSSIBLE SPOILER WARNING ***
How It Starts
The story opens up with a map of Athea, breaking down the important areas of the land. An excellent way to introduce the new landscape to readers with definitive points of interest to keep in mind.
From here, The Paladins of the North Estron Kingdom are holding court concerning the fate of a figure who has created a polarizing reaction. The banter is confrontational amongst the group known as the Council Of Might. The reactions they have are very different in deciding on the young woman’s punishment.
Some say help her, some say exile her from the kingdom. This ends with a decision from Chieftain Orphidian, who has heard enough. She summons the accused, known as Shayde Whisper, to face the council. Whisper is led in via chains, to face the group. Readers see that there is a voice, talking with her and seems to have an influence over what has transpired. In a fit of rage, Whisper (also known as Paladin Stoneheart) breaks free, but is quickly subdued. With this latest action, the council makes their decision and exile Stoneheart from the kingdom!
New Beginnings
A man walks up and appears to mindwipe her thoughts, resulting in her waking up in a carriage heading towards the Lightspring Canyon of the Etrana Kingdom in Athea. Whisper appears to be facing this new environment with optimism and excitement. It’s a far cry from the dangerous ‘criminal’ the Council thought stood before them. Once arriving in town, Whisper hits the ground running, establishing a new life and career. However, as the story unfolds, readers see that Whisper’s past might not be done with her.
What new dangers now lurk in her new hometown? How far can she run from her past? Who is behind the influencing voice. The final act takes readers along for the ride as Whisper’s new status quo is established. With mystery looming in the shadows and one action that will have big ramifications moving forward.
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Story Review
Kubert is writing and drawing this series, presenting fans with a captivating tale with the lead character’s secret as the driving point. For being a debut issue, Kubert takes the time to introduce all the major players with caption boxes, noting their ages as well. This plays into the council’s decision to exile Whisper out of the Estron Kingdom.
Readers see the differences of the elders versus the younger members factoring in the choice of punishment. Once the story shifts to the Lightspring Canyon, Kubert spends a solid amount of time to forge the beginning friendship between Whisper and the local blacksmith, which makes the events of the final act much more impactful.
The pacing works well to move the story forward without giving away too much. The conclusion ends things with a unique cliffhanger, one that only adds more questions going to the next issue. It’s an excellent way to have readers interest spiking even more from this debut issue.
Artwork Overview
The art reflects the mystical backdrop of this story. Great use of the black and white coloring for the Estron Kingdom moments, while establishing the voices with the turquoise and red color blocks for the voices. Once the story moves locations and goes to full color, Kubert brings to life a vibrant energy reflecting Whisper’s endless positivity. Her reactions to the events that are unfolding create a connection with the readers. The new landscape has a certain charm to it, with it’s various residents fleshing out each scene.
Even with all the world building, there are some excellent action scenes which play into a bigger role heading to the final act. Speaking of that act, things move pretty quickly but Kubert never lets the emotions slide as the events unfold. Readers won’t be disappointed with how things conclude as they’re left with much to ponder in anticipation as this fantasy tale is only beginning to start it’s journey.
Final Point
Is optimism enough to survive on when danger and deception are constantly looming? That is the question Stoneheart #1 poses. Readers are introduced to the enigmatic Shayde Whisper, with a fantastic mix of intriguing storytelling and imaginative art. Emma Kubert sets the stage for a fantasy tale that shows no sign of missing it’s mark. Don’t miss your chance at picking up this engaging comic at the local comic shop this week.
Hit me up on ODPH social media and let me know what you thought of Stoneheart #1. Thanks for checking out Parlay Points on Nerd Initiative. Hit us up and let us know what comics we should be checking out!
Thanks for reading!
