The Earl & the Fairy Vol. 1by Sheena McNeilReviews may contain information that could be considered 'spoilers'. Readers should proceed at their own risk. Publisher
Credits Grade: 9 Lydia is a fairy doctor, which means she can see and talk to fairies. It's a profession that's falling more out of favor with each passing generation, and fairy doctors themselves are becoming rarer. While on her way to see her father, Lydia is "rescued" / kidnapped by one guy, and immediately "rescued" / kidnapped by another. The one she's with now calls himself Lord Edgar Ibrazel, supposed descendant of the legendary Blue Knight Earl, and he needs her help to find his birthright.The art is wonderfully, classically shojo: delicate lines, lots of soft shading and "light" spots. Even Nico, the fairy cat, has lovely long, wispy fur. The character designs are beautiful to look at. Edgar is the typical guy with simple, thin eyes — you can't tell what he's thinking, or else they come off as sad or cruel (depending on the situation). He also has slightly shaggy hair that falls just right in front of his eyes, and a subtle charm you can't help but fall for. Lydia is very pretty with long wavy hair and bigger eyes that are quite expressive. They look quite good together. Their situation and personalities create the perfect amount of tension, sexual and otherwise. The story is interesting and an unusual twist on using fairies. There's a legend and a quest, potential romance, danger (and dangerous people) and a little bit of magic. Nico really adds something, giving Lydia a voice of reason and seriousness when her kind heart gets the better of her. He's not quite a token animal companion, but he's also not quite a full-fledged character. I love his little accessories, his demeanor and the rare moments when he smiles. He also provides a constant reminder of the fairy aspects of the story. The end of this volume really cinches it for me; I'm now hooked and must know what happens next. Edgar might still be controlling, but he let something slip or happen without meaning to and he extended trust to her with his plea. We've been given a peak at what he's like under this grand visage he's created, and I want myself and Lydia to know more. Written: April 3, 2012
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