 Riddler’s Fayre - published by
U-Sharp Comics
Written by Steve Carroll
and drawn Jeff Anderson.
Back in the mists of time, when we were just beginning with SAM119, we heard rumours about a Christian graphic novel, being produced by Steve and Jeff. We were then fortunate enough to meet Steve at the Bristol comic con, and Jeff became a friend via email – even drawing a little strip for us in issue 3 of SAM119.
What I am trying to say is that in some ways
I found the prospect of this review rather daunting – these are two guys who we like and respect a lot, and if I was to slate their comic…
But the good news is that I needn’t have feared. Riddler’s Fayre is actually better than I thought it would be. I kind of expected some sort of swords and sorcery -type thing, with a sub Dan Brown grail plot going on. Wrong!
Actually Riddler’s is a sophisticated book, which owes a lot – to my mind – to some of the European books out there. Its intelligent, well researched, and manages to be a Christian comic book, whilst also portraying good characters who are Jewish or Muslim.
Set in the middle-ages, it is coloured brightly, and is an engaging read, with a mystery plot that is populated with believable characters. There’s action too, and even a bit of potential love interest…
I found it very readable, good enough for an adult, and the language and text style are not going to be a bar to younger readers. I had been concerned that the subject matter might put off young readers, but I think that Jeff Anderson’s art work make the comic so enjoyable to read, that even less interested youngsters will be drawn in.
I suppose my one question would be over the cover, which is a piece of digitally painted art, I found it slightly unusual. I won’t say off putting though – and perhaps that’s its aim – to intrigue. But I must admit that I found it slightly at odds with the interior content.
Far be it from me though to criticise the artwork of Jeff Anderson, one of the most talented artists around, and certainly the nearest thing British Christian comics have to a celebrity.
Inside the comic the art is very good – real classic comic book stuff, a very British look, slightly evocative of Dan Dare, but again it pays homage to the Europeans – which makes me wonder if some canny soul has already had thoughts about the French market.
The publication coincides with the publisher, Highland books, launching a new imprint, U sharp, specifically to publish comics. I don’t yet know what they have up their sleeve for this venture, but I certainly welcome the prospect of more Christian comics coming on the market.
I would recommend Riddler’s Fayre to all comic fans – those who like a good adventure story, (me), those who like a bit of a mystery, or action, as well as those who are keen to intrigue young people with Christian messages.
I should say that there are some fairly blatant Christian things going on here, although when reading I did wonder whether I would find them so blatant if I were not a Christian.
It’s good stuff all round – and I am very pleased to be able to give it a clear thumbs up.
Riddler’s Fayre is on sale in the Undercurrent Comics shop, it is hardback, and retails at £7.99 + post and packing.
For a limited time though you can actually win a copy of Riddler’s Fayre by emailing us the answer to the following easy-peasy question:
In the 1980’s, Jeff Anderson worked for Marvel UK, on which comic book series that featured a group of robotic shape shifters?
Email your answer to: editorial@undercurrentcomics.com
Remember to include your full name and postal address. Winners will be contacted. Closing date for entries: May 15, 2006.
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