Moonstruck, Volume 1: Magic to Brew – Graphic Novel Review

I have been searching high and low for graphic novels that fit into my current spooky reading vibes. I wanted something like Sheets by Brenna Thummler, which I adored! So, as I was browsing my library’s digital archives I found this beauty, Moonstruck. I haven’t heard anyone talking about it, so I was unsure what to expect going into it, however, I was definitely pleased with the outcome!

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5/5 Stars

This book follows Julie, Selena, Chet, and Cass as they go up against an evil magician who is stealing magic. This was the adorable fantasy/contemporary of my dreams! It was a mix of both of these genres. The main characters live in a college town, work in a coffee shop, and play online video games, all normal! But, this college town is also full of mystical creatures and magic!

Bear with me while I cry over the beautiful art style! The illustrators put so much thought into each scene, all the way to the many background characters that still had personality, despite having no dialogue. I don’t know what it is about this art style that pulls me in immediately. The colors! They are so pastel and it makes everything more pleasing.

Reading Goodreads reviews, I see a lot of talk about the lack of a fleshed-out plot, but I didn’t see that at all. Maybe it was because I didn’t go into this expecting a complicated storyline. I mean, it was only 130 pages. But, I definitely understand where these people are coming from. Some scenes can seem random and disjointed from the plot. But, I think I was just too in love with the art and cuteness, that I didn’t take notice of anything else.

The characters in this graphic novel were SO diverse! It was so refreshing to read. I loved the relationship between Julie and Selena. It was a new relationship and the authors and illustrators did a fantastic job of portraying this, with awkward silences and nervous glances. Although, I often became annoyed at Selena, as her protectiveness leaned on overprotectiveness in my opinion. Other than that, the characters were great, and I related to Julie a lot.

Overall, this was as cute and refreshing as I was hoping. I have rated each graphic novel I have read 5/5 stars. Maybe I am just a sucker for adorable stories in pastel colors. I mean, Sheets, The Tea Dragon Society, and this? It looks like I have a type!

I have already borrowed the next volume of the Moonstruck series from my library, and I will be reading it promptly. This world is so diverse and beautiful, I am ready for more from these characters.