The Earl & the Fairy Vol. 2by Sheena McNeilReviews may contain information that could be considered 'spoilers'. Readers should proceed at their own risk. Publisher
Credits Grade: 8 Edgar, Lydia and their companions travel to the Isle of Manan to get the sword they've been looking for. Lydia knows she's just being used by Edgar, but she still wants to help him. Plus, she's safer with him than with Huxley, the other guy who wants to use her. Huxley has brought Lydia's father in to this, and is using him as a hostage! Lydia puts her Fairy Doctor skills to good use securing both her and Edgar's satisfaction, but it is not without losses to their party.Make sure you read volume one before starting this one. There's a page at the beginning to help remind you of what happened in the last volume, but so many things won't make sense if you haven't actually read it. This story has a lot of depth and nuances, and they are so well tied into the overall writing that it is not a difficult read. All four of the main characters are suffering in some way, but they have learned to cope and are even attempting to change things (as frightening or painful as that can be). So, even though Edgar and his two companions are using Lydia and doing some not-so-nice things, both Lydia and the reader have an appreciation for why and even sympathy for them. This volume pays special attention to Lydia and Ermine, the two girls. I like how Ayuko makes even a short-lived character like Ermine important to the story, the other characters and the reader. The main fairies in this volume are brownies and merrows. The brownies are awesome, especially in the one "battle" scene as they attack on rats and bats. The merrows (essentially mermaids) show that fairies can have a sense of duty and honor but can also twist that. Lydia's heart and logic save the day, bringing an acceptable agreement for all. I really enjoyed how this wrapped up, especially since the story kept twisting and turning with plot and angst till the very last minute. The art is beautiful with a whispy quality very fitting of a story about fairies. Normally, I might complain about lack of backgrounds, but Ayuko uses light and shadow as backgrounds very effectively giving the panels emotions and power. The actual backgrounds are nicely detailed, providing a great sense of location. Art pairs with story for a wonderful read. Written: September 2, 2012
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