A review by mariekejee
The Adventure Zone: Petals to the Metal by Clint McElroy, Carey Pietsch

adventurous funny hopeful lighthearted fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Plot
  • Strong character development? It's complicated
  • Loveable characters? It's complicated
  • Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.5

This is probably my least favourite arc of TAZ: Balance, and this book has not changed my opinion on it. I had a good time, of course, reliving memories and getting caught up with the story. As usual, I don't think the loving shit-talking that happens between a family playing D&D translates well when we're asked to consider the three main characters in their story; they come off as rude and flippant at times, which is understandable given the source material but takes some getting used to every time I decide to start up a new graphic novel. 

The graphics are good but confusing at times, especially in combat, and a lot of Taako's magic is being hand waved away (I saw some shit I'm pretty sure is not a thing in D&D). It's fine, but a large part of this arc is cars battling, and that part was difficult to follow, which is a shame. 

In the end, this series is still highly nostalgic for me, and I will keep having a soft spot for it. I'm looking forward to reading the 4th book, and most of all I'm looking forward to "The Eleventh Hour", which is my all time favourite arc of Balance. Off we go!! 
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