Monstress, Vol. 1: Awakening by Marjorie M. Liu

"Set in an alternate world of art deco beauty and steampunk horror, Monstress tells the epic story of Maika Halfwolf, a teenage survivor of a cataclysmic war between humans and their hated enemies, the Arcanics. In the face of oppression and terrible danger, Maika is both hunter and hunted, searching for answers about her mysterious past as those who seek to use her remain just one step behind ... and all the while, the monster within begins to awaken ..."--Back cover.

Wow, first experience with Image comics and I loved it - there were so many ways Monstress stood out to me in the graphic novel medium. Firstly, you get dropped into the middle of this rich pseudo-steampunk/ fantasy land, full of power struggles and tensions that feel reminiscent of conflicts like WWII and the Cold War. The worldbuilding was immense but gave you just enough context to carry you through the journey of Maika Halfwolf, with flashbacks and a strong antagonistic group. Secondly, the art was gorgeous, with slanted lines between panels and a remarkable sense of pace and scale that adds to the sense of danger. Thirdly, whilst the characters were the weakest points they are highly fascinating both visually and in their slowly-revealed backstories. Oh, and how refreshing was an all-female cast, writing team and perspective? Am keen to continue this heavy story.

Wow, this took me forever to read. I liked a lot of it (the art, some of the characters, overall atmosphere) but I had some trouble following what was happening. Maybe one day I'll read it again and it'll click.

Maika is a badass heroine, who is fighting her own inner monster to try and find the truth about her past. She doesn't trust anyone, even herself and would do absolutely anything to get her answers and reunite with her only friend Tuya.

There are lots of side characters including humans, witches, monsters, half breeds and cats, but my favorite was definitely Kippa - a cute little arcana child, who is super afraid of Maika and her inner monster but still stays loyal and decides to fight. I just wanted to keep her safe