Castle Waiting: The Lucky Road

I always enjoy this series whenever it comes to my local comic shop. It is an excellent fantasy story that has very memorable characters that are truly likable and you connect with quickly. The issues collected in this volume are just the beginning of what feels like an epic story. You will be right on your way to becoming hooked if you purchase this book since it collects the first eight issues of the series. And it establishes the setting well and leaves you wanting more when you get to the last chapter.... Linda Medley publishes "Castle Waiting" through her own company Olio, and every new issue that sells I'm sure will help her keep publishing.

Go buy "Castle Waiting". Now. Whatever you can get your hands on, however many copies you can find. This is one of those amazing books that you just don't come across often enough. Linda Medley's artwork is charming. Her stories are delightful. I don't think I can recommend this book *enough* to anyone who loves faery tales, graphic novels, comics in general, or just good stories and good art. I keep going back to re-read this one, and it's spent more time lent out to friends than sitting at home on my bookshelf. Her characters are a treat. Her women are real: not glamorous, not perfect, not stereotyped, but portrayed like - *gasp!* - actual humans (a stunner in a graphic novel)! More wonderful than that, she has real male characters at the same time - there's no reverse-stereotyping going on, making for a full, well-rounded cast of characters that's remarkably true to life (no small feat in the fantasy genre). Issues like domestic abuse and loss are addressed, but not in obvious or preachy ways, and VERY positive male characters stand in direct contrast to the off-screen baddies that you never see in "The Lucky Road". Her characters are just marvelous and memorable. I can't stress this enough. The book is sweet without being cloying, and just very, VERY clever. I think it's appropriate for older children as well as wonderful for adults. This one goes on my holiday list for any moms with a sense of wonder, grownups who like fantasy and/or comix, and mature kids who like some substance to their stories. If I could give it more than 5 stars, I would.

At first glance, CW appears to be a warmly illustrated children's comic. After awhile, however, parents and older siblings will realize that the book finds its most appreciate audience in themselves. (Subtle adult jokes sneak in between the all-ages appeal.)With a delightful fairytale veneer (and a pleasantly researched medieval backdrop), quirky and endearing characters, and the promise of many unfolding storylines to come, it's no surprise that Castle Waiting is a rising star in the industry. Linda Medley's narrative wit and lovely artistic style (not to mention Todd Klein's typically excellent lettering) make this entire book a pure delight. Here's hoping the word gets out about this wonderful effort.