First off, I’ve never consumed anything about Monte Cristo, and for a long while have thought it was a real man. Or based on a true story. Considering how many adaptations there are, with no fantasy elements, I’m fairly surprised it’s a fictional character. Either way, I didn’t know anything going in, except that it’s a popular piece and has received many positive reviews. That’s it.
However, while reading, I didn’t necessarily feel like I needed to know any background to Monte’s story. It’s a new spin on it anyways, making the protagonist of African descent, a slave and “a man of color, as they nowadays say”. Plus, connecting it to the Haitian revolution, so you know how that part ends.
It was a good spin. Taking revenge on the white men – who hate other men just because of the skin color, thinking that ‘white’ skin is superior – that was very satisfying. An act of justice I support with all I am.
Only the pace was a little quick sometimes; rushing through flashbacks, going back and forth between past events, making it seem as if David was expecting for fans to pick up this graphic novel, not so much for newcomers to read this first.
It’s minor, though, and I did end up understanding the puzzle of memories.
The supernatural aspect, with the demon luring him and giving him powers to do so was … 50/50. On one hand, cool idea and I’ve loved Faria’s design as well as the demonic aspects. However, not so much the ending. No spoilers, but it kinda ruined it for me. Made it seem like the whole demon thing wasn’t necessary – unless the epilogue was rushed, a last-minute idea. Or Monte did imagine Faria, purely his lust for vengeance led him. Could be plausible.
I expected a bit more horror. It leans much more to the paranormal side, with relatively normal amount of gore you’ll find in almost every war- or revolution-related story.
The art style and character design is rough-edged but well done (slightly different from the cover, but better), similar to American superhero comics. Which fits quite well, cause I’d count Monte and Faria as a superhero duo. Although they could’ve done a bit more, but at least they’ve did the world some favor by getting rid of these few white men.
I may check out the other versions or the original book of Monte Cristo, cause I am curious, but I’m sure I won’t like them much. It’ll definitely be difficult to top this. Would the story even work if Monte was white? Sounds kinda boring, to be honest.
| Criteria | Scores | Our Score |
|---|---|---|
| Art | 1-5 | 4.5 |
| Pacing | 1-5 | 3 |
| Characters | 1-5 | 4 |
| Writing Style | 1-5 | 3 |
| Originality | 1-5 | 4 |
Finale Grade
B
Thank you to Andrews McMeel Publishing on Netgalley for an eARC. It’s set to be released on April 15, 2025.
Finished reading: 16th April 2025
~Arden Skye
Check my other content on: Newsletter | Youtube | My books
Written By: Arden Skye
Favorite game/film/book: doesn’t have one, cause there are too many good ones!
About: generalist, who likes a bit of everything, but especially has a love for magic, queerness and melancholy. When they’re not arting, they’re probably dreaming/reading through another world, or spending time in nature with their dog.
Donate: https://ko-fi.com/timefliesaway
