Graphic Novel Review: The Last Amazon

The Last Amazon (c) Apotheosis Studios

The Last Amazon is an indie graphic novel from Apotheosis Studios by author Jamison Stone, illustrator David Granjo, and supporting artist Carlos Cardona. Thanks to Kickstarter, friends, and fans, over $21,000 was raised to bring this near future, post-apocalyptic adventure to life. Readers can dive right into the story with realistic, colorful, and detailed graphics. It is a stunning piece of art that tells its story in technology pieces, such as social media posts, chat boxes, and newspaper clippings. You do not have to already be a fan to become one!

The story begins in the not-so-distant future United States, with an online chat between characters Redd and Lex, mixed with imagery of a apocalyptic/dystopian world. Politics, war, mentions of androids, and social media posts tell the story of what has happened in this world to lead to World War III and the state the world is now in. Told through chat messages, social media pages, and newspaper clippings, we learn that the world is in a very sad state. After the war, people are grouping up together to survive, either staying with others to stay safe, or attempting the trip to the last city still around. The first half of the graphic novel you uncover the plot as the character Lex does, learning bits and pieces here and there. In the second half, it felt similar to a movie, where everything goes down and you find how things are tied together.

I thought it was interesting that the social media and politics that were listed in the graphic novel were similar to the times now. You can take it in humor or heed it as a warning to what we may do to our world, as well. I also liked the pop culture references, at least the ones I could say "I understood that reference" to. *cough* Captain America reference *cough* :)

The graphics are very detailed and colorful. Some of the pages have much text to read through, but all of it comes together to explain and setup the plot. There are a few lines that may go over your head if you do not know some basic coding/computer basics, such as the fact that "#ff0000" is the hex color for red - a play on one of the characters names, Redd. There are also references to other languages (besides computer ones), including one referring to a language from the video game Skyrim, but most of these have explanations right after them, so you will not be confused as to the story plot.

I recommend The Last Amazon to those who are into science fiction, politics, and dystopian novels. You will not be disappointed, as much talent went into creating this masterpiece, including help from fandom icons (famous cosplayers modeled the characters). It is interesting to see the transition from their real life photos in Instagram to the characters on the pages. Featured models include:

• Lauren Drain (@laurendrainfit)
• Darth Lexxi (@darthlexii)
• Cheeryl Lawrence (@whoanerdalert)
• Reinessa (@reinessagaming)
• Cynthia Chan (@cynsincosplay)
• Samantha Rubin (@sammyrubin)
• MY (@mj_and_spidey)

The Last Amazon is available in several formats, including digital, hardcover, and special edition hardcover. You can tell much love and work went into creating this graphic novel. I admire the detail and intricacy in the digital copy, and imagine the hard copy to be pretty spectacular. If you are lucky enough to snag a physical copy, the author and artist will both sign your edition! Not to mention that the book itself features an elegant metallic stamp on the front of the book, foil bookplates, and foil book block edging.

Although The Last Amazon was released last November, you can still find a copy on the official website. Keep a lookout for their next graphic novel and video game, Shadow of the Moon, sequel to The Last Amazon!