This is kind of a late to the party review. I am kind of a hoarder when it comes to digital comics and can’t resist a good Humble Bundle. That being said, there are only so many hours in the day, and just recently got to checking out some titles from IDW / Top Shelf. The first one I read was Cosmoknights by Hannah Templer, and I am kicking myself for waiting so long.
The graphic novel is set in a galaxy that, while futuristic, still runs on a feudal system, where armored warriors fight for the right to the hands of princesses. The story is centered on Pan, a young lesbian who is ostracized after she helps her friend escape the night before the match is going to happen to decide who will get to take possession of her royal personage. Years later, she hooks up with a pair of gladiators who are subverting the system by winning in the arena and then letting the princesses decide their fate.
I found everything about the book heartfelt and entertaining. The art is top notch and the characters represent such a truly diverse cast dedicated to fighting injustices that it made my queer heart almost burst. Hannah Temple is a talented creator who has worked on a lot of properties, including Samurai Jack, Tomb Raider, and Jem and the Holograms. But I think she saved the best for this personal project. If you haven’t yet checked this one out, be sure and grab it as soon as you can.
Now, if you will excuse me, I have to run out and grab the second graphic novel because I can’t wait to see the heroines attempt to burn the whole system down.
You can pick up the collected edition at
https://www.topshelfcomix.com/catalog/cosmoknights-book-one/1026
or read the web comic at
Paper Phoenix ink 