ROSE #3 REVIEW
Summary: Rose begins to embrace her magical abilities.
4
An enjoyable read!
Thorne has been awakened, and with his arrival comes a new age of magic! For the first time in her life, Rose no longer needs to hide her magical abilities, instead it’s time she embraces her powers, becoming the powerful guardian she is destined to be.
This issue begins with a flashback to ten years earlier, where we see the moment when Thorne decides that he must hide away from the world, so that he may not be used as a weapon against those he loves. A difficult decision that he makes with a heavy heart, but with the slim hope that one day he will be reawakened by his future guardian…a.k.a.Rose! Now to the present, where Rose is on the road with Ila, where it soon becomes apparent that she wishes to use Rose’s as a tool against Queen Drucilla, usurping this vile despot. During their conversation, we learn more about Ila, her past and the devastating loss she endured during the war against the Queen and the guardians. Through her story, Rose learns a valuable lesson about life, loss and regrets, opening her mind up to the possibilities of a new and exciting life filled with magic. It’s time for Rose to take a leap of faith, but in order for that to happen, she needs to find her Khat and gain the trust of the distrustful rebels.
Third issue in and we’re already starting to see Rose grow and go through some interesting changes. Not only have her powers fully manifested, activating her new white hair, but she also begins to embrace her magic for the first time in her life. Up until this point, Rose has spent her entire life hiding her magic, fearing the wrath of Queen Drucilla, but after Ila’s words of encouragement, she decides to embrace her destiny and therefore her powers. This is clever character development from Meredith Finch, as the changes Rose goes through feels natural, and in no way forced. Whilst Rose cuts a powerful figure with her powerful magical abilities, it’s her gentle and protective nature that has me intrigued. It appears that her powers are at their strongest when she is trying to protect the people or animals she cares for. This of course being the opposite of Drucilla’s powers that seem to be driven by hate, only cause pain and death. As they say, opposites attract and I look forward to seeing these two face one another in the future.
Artist, Ig Guara, perfectly captures the intense array of emotions Rose is experiencing through her emotive facial expressions and character interactions. This is a distinct magical world, with a variety of interesting places and people, creating a diverse visual narrative that is enjoyable to explore. I also enjoyed seeing more of Thorne in this issue, especially during the action scenes, as there was a wonderful sense of movement and fluidity that flows effortlessly. The colouring by Triona Farrell, is vivid and vibrant, bringing this high-fantasy world to life. During the scenes with magic, there is a lovely sense of light and reflection that is achieved through the colouring, giving everything an exciting and magical energy.
Rose #3 is an exciting and compelling edition that explores some interesting character developments. Rose is going through some changes, finally embracing her magical abilities and her destiny to become a guardian. We are also introduced to the glorious Thorne, a captivating giant black kitty! The art is vibrant and fresh, and captures the enchanting side to this world. I’m looking forward to going on more adventures with Rose, and seeing her meet Thorne for the first time.
I’m giving this issue 4 out of 5 stars!
COMIC DETAILS
CREATIVE TEAM: Meredith Finch, Ig Guara, Triona Farrell, Cardinal Rae and Andy Schmidt
PUBLISHER: Image Comics
PUBLICATION DATE: June 14, 2017
REVIEWER: Dana Folkard
About the Author
Dana Folkard An absolute nerd with a passion for all things sci-fi! Lover of comics, coffee and Geralt of Rivia. Mother of Dragons!
Related Posts
STAN SAKAI’S NEW USAGI YOJIMBO SERIES TEN THOUSAND PLUMS MARKS PERIOD OF GROWTH FOR IMPRINT →
Superstar Comic Book Creator Jamal Campbell Headlines DC’s New Zatanna “All In” Limited Series! →
DARK HORSE BOOKS PRESENTS “THE WRITER” DIRECT MARKET EDITION →
