Review: RAI, History of the Valiant Universe #1
Most comics when they develop a History of… series depend on heavy exposition in letter boxes with editorial content and re-drawn visuals to tell their story, however, Valiant has done something better then telling us what happened, they are actually showing us the history of the Valiant universe in a fun way. Karana opens the story and explains who she is to the reader, then she goes into the great hall where she is shown the book of the geomancer. One of the ancient ones is explaining the importance of said book and as they open its pages their history unfolds before them.
The Creative Team:
Rafer Roberts begins an incredible journey with issue number one. Instead of giving us editorial exposition, he has the protagonist learn from her teacher and the ultimate text book. If you’re new to the Valiant universe this will explain all you need to know about its history, if you’ve been with them through the years then this will be an excellent refresher course for you with a lot of Easter eggs for you to chew on.
Francis Portela captures the Valiant characters in that unique Valiant way. One thing about Valiant is that their art is unique and consistent and fans will not be disappointed. Each character’s personality shines forth. It’s fun to see Valiant’s chief protagonists leap into action in one volume, even if it’s only in flashback form. Here’s to hoping for the ultimate Valiant team up and we get to see something akin to Marvel’s Secret Wars or DC’s Crisis again soon.
In Conclusion:
Here’s a history of series that’s more than just a re-telling of what went on before. The students, Karana and Rai, learn from their master, not just what happened but the consequences of the characters actions. As Rai begins to accept his destiny, he’s careful not to let what he learns corrupt him. He cautiously realizes his purpose and desires to make the right decisions from what has gone on before. And yet, this is only…The Beginning! ***1/2 (8.7 rating)
RAI, History of the Valiant Universe #1
Writer – Rafer Roberts
Art – Francis Portela
Colors – Andrew Dalhouse
Letters – Dave Sharpe
Publisher – Valiant Entertainment
Publication date – June 2017
About the Author
Kevin Given Kevin Given has studied with "Longridge Writers Group" and "Writer's Boot Camp" a speech/communications major from the University of Maine Presque-Isle/Orono sites. He has created the "Karl Vincent Vampire Hunter" franchise which includes 2 novels and 8 comic books. They can be found on amazon, Indyplanet and Kindle. For a limited time you can get digital copies of "Karl Vincent: Vampire hunter" #1 and "Files of Karl Vincent" #1 for free on Indyplanet. Kevin is producing the third novel in the series "Dracula Rising" (working title) and developing "Foul Blood" into comic book form.
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