by Joe Iconic, Reporter
Princeless is back! Again!
Adrienne is back and this time she’s out to save her middle sister Angoisse. But Angoisse is in the heart of an ancient and dangerous swamp and it’s not going to be an easy task.
Join Adrienne, Bedelia, and Sparky for a brand new adventure.
Princeless Be Yourself #1 is the best yet from this all-ages joyride of a series. This chapter of the story of the Princess who does not need rescuing, starts with Adrienne, her dwarf companion Bedelia, and Sparky the dragon venturing into Grimmorium Swamp. With thick undergrowth, goblins who are not to be trusted, and psycho killer squirrels, Grimmorium is Mirkwood meets the Bog of Eternal Stench. It has the feel of a place that could be dropped into any Dungeons & Dragon or Pathfinder Campaign world, which is a hallmark of most of the Princeless series to date.
The second act of Princeless Be Yourself #1 centers on Adrienne’s brother Devin and his relationship with his father. Devin is compelling character, and his attention to detail will help him unravel the mystery of the Black Knight, and hopefully impress his disapproving father. Kira the werewolf is a fun contrast to Devin. The Black Knight’s identity should be pretty obvious to the reader, which makes it a great discussion point for parents who share this book with their children. In other words, Princeless Be Yourself #1 masters the all ages approach once again.
Jeremy Whitley continues to impress with his story-telling, and there is a noticeable shift in art from the preceding Princeless the Pirate Princess series. Emily Martin does a fantastic job of pencils, effectively channeling Elf Quest and Manga influences that fit the tone and themes perfectly with this next chapter. I look forward to seeing more from this brilliant artist.
Princeless Be Yourself #1 remains on the top of my pull-list for the many comics I read with my youngest daughter. This issue is also a great jumping on point. Reading the previous volumes is not necessary for enjoying the heck out of this issue. I highly recommend Princeless for fans of Avatar the Last Airbender, Princess Ugg, Courntey Crumin, all ages Swords & Sorcery, and basically anyone who can identify with strong themes of empowerment and acceptance. Princeless Be Yourself #1 is what Disney should be doing.
Rating: 
ComicsOnline gives Princeless Be Yourself #1 5 Grimmorium Swamp Killer Squirrels out of 5 Grimmorium Swamp Killer Squirrels.
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