Comics, Puzzles, and Demon Slayers

The art of comics, puzzles that solve a mystery, and a demon slaying teacher are the subjects of the books getting reviewed in this blog. The first book takes a dream come true for the protagonist and turns it into a nightmare. The second book changes the protagonist’s view of reality. The third book takes you through the make-believe world of comics.

Is the Money Worth It?

The Inheritance Games (Book 1) by Jennifer Lynn Barnes (2020) is a YA mystery/thriller. The whole cast of characters has secrets and issues, which leads to many twists, turns, and great page turners. I will be reading book 2, The Hawthorne Legacy.

Tobias Hawthorne was a man who liked creating puzzles. Even upon his death, the billionaire left a giant puzzle for his entire family to solve—why did he leave most of his fortune to teenage stranger Avery Grambs? Tobias’s two daughters and four grandsons need to know why and so does Avery. The family is definitely not happy about his will and are not welcoming to Avery.

For Avery to receive the inheritance, she must live at the estate named Hawthorne House for one year. A mansion with a bowling alley, pool, libraries, movie theater, and many other amenities would seem like a dream for a teen who spent time living in her broken-down car, but it soon turns into a nightmare when someone tries to kill her. In a house full of secret passageways and hidden rooms, Avery’s year-long stay may prove challenging.

Witches, Demons, and a Talking Dog

The Accidental Demon Slayer (Biker Witches Mystery Book 1) is a paranormal romance by Angie Fox (2008). The book has a lot of action, a little sizzle, and ridiculousness that makes it a fun read. The supporting characters are hysterical, and Lizzie’s talking dog Pirate is a great addition.

Lizzie Brown is a preschool teacher with a normal life. Her thirtieth birthday plans unravel quickly after her long-lost grandma shows up at her door, riding a Harley. Grandma is a witch from a coven of biker witches that create magic potions from roadkill and other strange items.

Grandma warns Lizzie that a powerful demon is coming—and this is Lizzie’s problem because she’s a demon slayer. Of course, Lizzie doesn’t want the job, but she has no choice after a demon nabs Grandma and drags her to Hell. Lizzie must learn her job on the fly, although she has the help of a shape-shifting griffin Dimitri who she happens to be lusting after. It’s a lot to learn in a pinch, but where there’s a will, there’s a way—and for Lizzie, it’s probably fermenting in an old pickle jar.

Comic Books in Depth

Understanding the Invisible Art of Comics by Scott McCloud (1993) is a comic book about comics. McCloud is drawn as a cartoon character to narrate the comic book journey.

The book explores the art of comics, demonstrating the many sides of this medium. I never thought about hieroglyphics as the first comics, but it really was—pictures that tell a story. The book compares US comics to those created in other countries, especially Japan.

With eye-opening illustrations and descriptions, it is a great read for anyone interested in creating comics and graphic novels.

If you like the reviews, leave a comment. If you have a book suggestion, leave a comment. If you had a great day…you get the picture.