By Mézières & Christin
Publisher: Cinebook
ISBN: 9781849182638
Quick note of warning: you’ll need to have read the previous volume to get any proper enjoyment of this one.
Valerian’s been struggling with his half of the mission, back on contemporary Earth, causing him to let down his guard and play into the hands of those involved with the mysterious creature sightings. It takes some cajoling from Laureline and assistance from Mr Albert to get himself back on course, culminating in a confrontation at the Pompidou where yet another creature manifests itself. From here the trail takes Mr Albert and Valerian to snow-covered New York, and to a more private demonstration of the beasts, but it’s here that Laureline, in another time and place entirely, must conclude her investigation to end the carnage.
Splitting the pair up across time and space makes for an interesting tale as it plays out across the pages, and it’s pleasing that we’re not spoon-fed the usual tropes of an indestructible male hero and a defenceless female as it goes. It’s Laureline that must step up and save the day while Valerian battles with his own personal problems. As mentioned in my review of volume 9, there’s a clear sense of why this series is held in such regard as it weaves away from the obvious and challenges our expectations. And that’s not to say that the books that have come before don’t do that, but these last two volumes are bolder in the narrative and execution.
Shan’t say any more. You’ll just have to pick up your own copies and see for yourself. Enjoy.
And if you liked that: Volume 11 out soon
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