Reviews

Elfquest Archives, Vol. 3 by Wendy Pini, Richard Pini

a_h_haga's review

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5.0

I never much cared for Blue Mountain or the story taking place there. Not that it's not good. It's a very interesting display of both what and who the Wolfriders are, and the different aspects of their lives, as well as love. I grew up reading [b:ElfQuest #12 – What Is the Way?|34958134|ElfQuest #12 – What Is the Way?|Wendy Pini|https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1515021135l/34958134._SX50_.jpg|6811761] again and again every summer, not knowing the rest of the story, for that was the only volume we had at the family cabin, and I loved it! I loved how it portrayed creatures that were bound to wolves - my favorite animal - as if they were human - much like I felt about animals, especially canine - and it questioned death - which I did a lot of at that age - as well as show that one can love more than one person - which I at the time found some validation in that I late see reflects my own sexuality in a lot of ways.
But despite all that, I never liked the Blue Mountain or most of those living there. Which, as it turned out, was very accurate.

The art is good and I like how this book focuses a lot on characters and who's what and such, and what makes you who you are.

alicea's review

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5.0

Right off the bat, I was blown away by Wendy Pini who is an absolutely phenomenal artist. The entire thing is rich with color and a distinctive flair that I came to appreciate as Wendy's signature style. Another reviewer said that this series is born more of the heart than of the mind and I totally agree with them. [A/N: If you're looking for a cerebral sci-fi then you have made a wrong turn and need to look at your directions a little more closely.] Pini has created a true fantasy epic that is about the people just as much (maybe more so) than the journey they undertake.

And then came along Volume 3 where Cutter and his best friend (and possibly lover if you read between the lines) Skywise (my favorite character) are on a quest to find the rest of their Elvin kinfolk and the home of the High Ones (if such a place exists). Their quest leads them to foreign lands where they are met by humans who view them as gods instead of enemies and who speak of others who look as they do with pointy ears (but much taller). When they finally locate those that call themselves the High Ones (and who ride on giant birds) they are not welcomed with open arms but with scorn, distrust, and outright hatred. The group's elder wishes for them to stay but his adviser (and the power behind the throne) has other plans in mind. Winnowill possess the opposite of Leetah's gifts (Leetah is Cutter's mate) which means she has the power to hurt and even to kill so her threats are anything but empty. #dangeraplenty

This series looks in depth at these characters and examines their relationships, philosophies, and general way of life. We learn that appearances are deceiving because these so-called warriors are at their core simply a resilient little family just trying to find their place in the world. Full of romance, bloodshed, redemption, and definitely suspense I was shocked at how quickly Elfquest worked its spell on me. 10/10 and can hardly wait for Volume 4.

On with the Quest!!
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