Bubbly and headstrong Shayde Whisper has been inexplicably exiled from her magical guild and relocated, left only with vague memories and romanticized hope. But when she hears a sinister voice in her head that awakens a power beyond her comprehension, she’ll traverse her past and present to unravel her prestigious place within the mystical land of Athea! Stonheart #1 is an interesting debut that has an interesting premise but a rather mixed execution.
With a story and art by Emma Kubert, Stoneheart #1 opens with a fantasy setting showing Shayde tossed out from her community. There’s hints of a crime and horror she committed and how powerful she is, the Paladin that used her gift for destruction. Cut to the main story as Shayde heads to a new town to begin her life as an apprentice as a blacksmith.
Kubert’s story and art shines at this moment. There’s something rather cute and Disney-esque about the comic here as Shayde is overwhelmed by the city she’s in and a bit clumsy to not cause chaos around her. To me, it’s the best part of the comic and rather cinematic introducing us to the town and a better idea as to who Shayde is.
But, there’s a choppiness to the story at times that works against it. Teasing Shayde’s past might have worked better instead of making it the opener. The villain at the end also feels a bit sudden without a natural build. Both together could have build a bit of a mystery around Shayde making the narrative a bit more engaging.
Kubert’s art just isn’t for me. It’s completely personal and I have nothing against Kubert as an artist but it’s a style and look that doesn’t hook me at all. The opening’s black/white/gray look has its moments that I fin interesting but when it gets to color, the style loses something I think. I’ll admit this part is completely subjective, my own personal taste. I do like Kubert’s page layouts and there’s a great focus on the emotions and reactions of the character.
Really when it comes down to Stoneheart #1, it’s just not for me. I know there’s an audience for it and I’m not it, and that’s ok. There’s a lot for people to enjoy though and if you’re into fantasy settings and worlds, this is one to check out.
Story: Emma Kubert Art: Emma Kubert
Story: 6.5 Art: 6.85 Overall: 6.75 Recommendation: Pass
Image Comics provided Graphic Policy with a FREE copy for review
Purchase: Zeus Comics – comiXology/Kindle
Source: Graphic Policy
