Have you ever picked up a book that immediately pulls you into a world both familiar and utterly unique? Alexis Deacon's Geis: A Matter of Life and Death, Geis: A Game Without Rules and Curse of the Chosen: The Will That Shapes the World, a three part graphic novel series (that confusedly changes its name after 2 books) is precisely that kind of experience.
The narrative is an incredibly compelling premise wrapped within a masterful blend of supernatural fantasy, action and ancient folklore; When a great chief matriarch dies without an heir, a grand contest is decreed to determine her successor. Fifty hopefuls, ranging from powerful lords to unassuming commoners, are summoned. However, what begins as a seemingly straightforward challenge quickly twists into something far more sinister in a Running Man style Battle Royale. A 'geis' for those unfamiliar with this concept (like I was) is a Gaelic curse, a taboo that, once broken, leads to dire and often fatal consequences. The competitors find themselves bound by this unbreakable curse, forced into a series of brutal trials where failure means death, and even survival comes at a steep price.
This high-stakes setup keeps the reader on the edge of their seat, as the story seamlessly shifts between intense action sequences and moments of profound suspense and the ink and brush artwork demands your attention.
Deacon brings a distinct and captivating style to this graphic novel. His painted illustrations, often featuring a soft, almost dreamlike pastel palette, imbue every panel with a unique glow. Yet, beneath this gentle aesthetic lies a meticulous ink line that grounds the fantastical elements, depicting environments and characters with both precision and fluidity. Whether it's a sweeping landscape of mountains and castles or an intimate moment conveying raw emotion, Deacon's art is consistently stunning, setting a mood that is at once mysterious, sinister, and utterly riveting. It's a visual feast that truly elevates the storytelling.
Deacon masterfully handles a large ensemble cast, ensuring that each character, even minor ones, feels distinct and contributes to the unfolding drama. While many are introduced, the focus narrows to a handful, allowing for deeper exploration of their motivations and struggles. Characters like the reluctant but clever young girl Io and conflicted Nemas, emerge as central figures, driving the narrative forward.
Beyond the thrilling plot, Geis delves into thought-provoking themes as it explores the nature of power, survival and the choices individuals make when faced with their own inescapable fate. There's a fascinating philosophical undercurrent to the 'geis' itself, a paradox that binds characters to their doom even as they are compelled to act.
Geis is far more than just a fantasy adventure; it's a deeply engrossing experience that resonates long after you've turned the final page. Its unique artistic vision, coupled with a gripping story and compelling characters, makes it a standout in the graphic novel landscape. If you're looking for a graphic novel that is both visually breathtaking and narratively rich, do yourself a favor and pick up Geis and you won't be disappointed.
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