Review by C.J. Bunce
If you’ve looked for a different take on Beauty and the Beast, something for older readers, and you are a fan of fantasy like Willow, it’s time to check out Suitor Armor. I reviewed the first book in the series here at borg, and the second, Suitor Armor–Volume 2 arrives at comic shops and bookstores, and it’s available at Amazon here today. This fantasy experience collects episodes 18-32 of the Webtoon by the writer-artist who goes by the name Purpah, all as a full-color hardcover storybook from Ten Speed Graphic books. This is fantasy for young adults, coming of age stories that pull from the tropes of fairy tales past. The artwork is reminiscent of Saturday morning animated fantasy, and the story another chapter from the fairy tale kingdom.
With the vibe of Frozen, Ever After, and Ella Enchanted the book features Lady Kirsi, daughter of the king, and her lady in waiting, Lucia, the real star of the story. Lucia is a fairy in a kingdom where they are the enemy. Fortunately almost nobody knows she’s a fairy–she straps her wings back under her corset.
Lady Kirsi is pursuing a marriage to a man she has spoken little with, and in this volume readers see her trying to get to know her betrothed, the young King. But the book is called Suitor Armor, which is a play on the robotic suit of armor who protects Lucia. It is their story that mimics the traditional Beauty and the Beast story.
For science fiction readers, Purpah’s handling of this possible, unrequited, romance will be similar to love stories between mechanical beings and humans, from cyborg tales going back to The Bride of Frankenstein.
When Lucia embarks on studies to become a mage, she must confront the realization that this newly sentient suit of armor has its own prime function: To kill fey.
This edition includes new content not found with the webcomic, a bonus storyline with backstory of a squire in the story.
As with the first volume, it’s an attractive and engaging blend of fantasy, sword and sorcery, fairy tales, and adventure, with artwork that may conjure classic Don Bluth fantasy animation. For young adult fans of fantasy and magic, Suitor Armor–Volume 2 is available today here at Amazon. Volume 1 is available here and the third volume is available for pre-order here. Or order them all from Elite Comics or your local comic shop.
