The Enlightened Age

Neotopia is another brilliant looking, full-color Manga title from Antarctic Press, simply one of the best publishers, and best kept secrets in comics today. "Neotopia" is a blend of fantasy and sci-fi taking place on a world where technology has largely died out and is mistrusted by the people, and where ancient, mythical creatures like fairies live again. Nalyn is the Grand Duchess of Mathenia...at least that's what most people think. In reality she is a simple girl posing as the true Duchess who abhors physical training, affairs of state, and dealing with commoners. She is also quite cruel and abusive to Nalyn who looks identical to her, but is a bit shorter. Even the King doesn't recognize that the girl he spends so much time with and loves is not really his true daughter. While off on a mission for the realm on one of their floating ships, Nalyn is kidnapped by the shadowy, evil servants of the Supreme Emperors of Krossia. These beings look somewhat like a cross between Nazgul and the evil Skekses from film "The Dark Crystal". They plan of forcing Mathenia into an agreement by blackmailing them with Nalyn's life. Nalyn's allies know that if the Emperors find out that she is not the real Grand Duchess that she will be killed and undertake a daring rescue attempt led by Nalyn's Elven bodyguard Marro; Philos, a dashing adventurer; and Nimn, a tiny fairy with powerful magic. Will their combined talents be enough to free Nalyn before her secret is discovered? And what sinister plot do the Emperors of Krossia have up their sleeve is the kidnapping is foiled. Neotopia is a grand fantasy aided tremendously by the fabulous art of Rod Espinosa. Antarctic's `Americanized' style of Manga is always first rate and Neotopia is one of their most beautiful books yet. The colors are simply dazzling and bring the world alive. The book includes a well-documented map and notes to the world of Neotopia. This book collects issues # 1 - 5 of the original comic series. Fantastic! Reviewed by Tim Janson