Wednesday, July 30, 2014

The Classics - The Dreamer: The Kip's Bay Affair Vol. 2

      The first volume of The Dreamer was reviewed on this blog last year - but that's just the beginning of the story!

   It continues in this second volume by writer / artist Lora Innes, as we follow the double life being led by a teenager named Beatrice Whaley. During her waking hours she has a (more or less) typical teenager's existence - going to school, worrying about dates, trying to balance friends, romances and her interest in theatre.

   But it all changes when she sleeps. In her dreams she finds herself experiencing the Revolutionary War, as the British invade New York - and the man she loves is in constant danger.

   So which life is real - or are both somehow real? And if so, is she cheating on her modern-day romance with Ben Cato? Or is her past self the one doing the cheating? Love can be confusing.

   It's a fun, fast-moving story that balances both settings nicely, and keeps the reader guessing all the way. Both time periods "feel" authentic, and the art is a real delight - full and lush, with expressive characters, a sharp balance between realism and humor, and wonderful character designs. 

   The series manages to combine history, drama, humor, soap opera and adventure into a delightful tale - I can't wait to read the next collection!

   Highly recommended!

Grade: A

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