Ran out of time on a library loan. I'll definitely be returning to this one when available.

This was a delightful trilogy, and this book one in particular was my favorite installment.

This was the perfect graphic novel!
We're introduced to Hamal, a gardener, that can see and interact with ghosts. The ghosts are playful, especially Blue, who can't help but love Hamal. 
Blue is a lovely character that welcomes other ghosts to join this found family, and wants what he thinks is best for the people he loves. 
This story nailed emotions like loneliness, grief, and hope. The colors were stunning, and character designs phenomenal.
The dialogue, especially banter, between characters provided humor to the story, and felt real.
Character's expressions told so much here. 
I'd love to see more stories set in this world, especially with how Hamal is picking up a new role.
I'd recommend this book to anyone, but undoubtedly Queer garderner friends.

This debut was a trip!
The best way I can think to describe the pacing is explosive. The descriptions are visceral and from the first chapter, a reader feels the sense of urgency that Benji is on borrowed time.
It makes so much sense that a pride center would be one of the surviving groups in an apocalyptic setting. As a former Roman Catholic and autistic trans person, I felt really connected with these characters and saw my friends in them as well (down to folks making beaded pride flag lizards for one another). The cast of characters at the ALC were distinct and I appreciated the inclusion of characters that use neo-pronouns.
It's critical that Benji's escape doesn't happen all at once. I love that he falters in embracing these new sides of himself.
Every detail felt incredibly well thought out, from the quotes in chapter headings, to using ears as proof of murder/a form or currency for trading supplies.
I'm thankful that there are more books now diving into the feeling that is Queer rage. This book is perfect for fans of Out of Salem by Hal Schrieve.

Strong introduction in this fantasy, and I'm excited to learn more about the magic. I just ran out of time on my library loan.

 

I was provided an electronic copy of this book by the author Rita Rubin in exchange for an honest review.

Derek Draco, powerful half-elf orphan, embarks on a quest alongside his friends Jared and Arabelle, to find the amulet of wishes in the hopes of bringing his parents back. During the journey, the group deals with secrets, the trauma of taking lives, and is hunted by Durbash and his loyal bandits.

I adored this fantasy. I enjoyed the descriptions of how guardians can shift into dragons and world-building. It means a lot that there are so many visible Queer characters. The younger characters and older both are developed well, and the chapters from Aurelia’s point of view were a real treat. The character motivations make so much sense here and the stakes are high! Reveals were handled masterfully. The writing is approachable and immersive. During fight scenes, the reader could keep track of what was happening. The theme of parenthood was so emotional and satisfying to read.

I read primarily fantasy, and this one has distinct characters that you can’t help but empathize with. I can’t wait to read more from this world! 

I relate a bunch to Darcy, having studied for actuarial exams, I'm really close with my brother, and I spent way too much time watching soap operas with older relatives while growing up, BUT these harry potter references are killing the vibe.

I love SFF with trans characters, but I think the writing is a little too heady for me right now.

This book wrecked me emotionally and I loved every minute of it.