Review: Nimona by Noelle Stevenson

Nimona by Noelle Stevenson
Verdict: So much more than I expected, and so sweet and savage that I absolutely loved it!

Recommended:
For a great example of how much story and building can be included in a graphic novel, for a story that grows in scope imperssively, for unexpectedly deep bonds and betrayals

Summary:
Nemeses! Dragons! Science! Symbolism! All these and more await in this brilliantly subversive, sharply irreverent epic from Noelle Stevenson. Nimona is an impulsive young shapeshifter with a knack for villainy. Lord Ballister Blackheart is a villain with a vendetta. As sidekick and supervillain, Nimona and Lord Blackheart are about to wreak some serious havoc. Their mission: prove to the kingdom that Sir Ambrosius Goldenloin and his buddies at the Institution of Law Enforcement and Heroics aren’t the heroes everyone thinks they are. But as small acts of mischief escalate into a vicious battle, Lord Blackheart realizes that Nimona’s powers are as murky and mysterious as her past. And her unpredictable wild side might be more dangerous than he is willing to admit.

Thoughts:
I found this as part of a reading challenge to read a book someone else rated five stars. And you know what? I wholeheartedly agree with that person. A surprise at it developed, I did NOT anticipate what this story would grow into. Laughter? Justice? Vengeance? Tears? It’s brilliant y’all.

I was a little iffy on the art style when I started it, but it did end up growing on me. Around halfway through I started appreciating the little details and style tics, plus one particularly impressive character that actually gave me goosebumps when revealed. (You’ll know who.)

The story itself was much more dynamic than I thought I’d get! I figured it would be a pretty simple job of good v. evil with some quirky characters, but no! Nimona has some issues which is maybe not a surprise given her aggressive joy in death and mayhem. But still… you can’t help but love her and Blackheart. My poor little heart by the end… a tear may have rolled down my cheek. 😦

I totally get why this was someone else’s 5-star read. Now I can be that person for you, too. If it sounds like it might be your kind of thing, give it a shot!!