The Tiger’s Tongue #1

Writer: Olivia Stephens

Penciler/Inker: Diansakhu Banton-Perry

Colourist: Bex Glendining

Letterer: Joamette Gil

Cover Artist: Odera Igbokwe

Plot:

Under the militant rule of The Tiger’s People, empowered by their animal familiars, the Claw is on the brink of war. At the precipice of adulthood, twin princesses Kelindi and Aridani hold the future of the Claw in their hands. Kelindi would sue for peace with The River’s People, those who were subjugated “to bring order,” while Aridani has never aspired to rule.

However, upon coming of age, the sisters must face three trials set upon them by their ancestors and the tigers themselves. One of mind, one of spirit and one of body, to determine which of them is worthy enough to wear the crown.

Story:

This story hooked me in from the first sentence in the very first panel, “Once a warrior saved a tiger from death”. That in itself made me want to read on and it’s been a while since any book has had that impact on me. It begins with such a powerful sentence that you are immediately drawn into the story and transported into a state of awe.

The plot within issue one already has me wanting more, as it perfectly builds up the drive into the bigger story that will unfold throughout the series. It has life, death, sibling rivalry and prophecies, which all make for what will no doubt be an incredible plot that will take the reader on a spiritual journey that will thrill you.

Art:

The art in this issue is beautifully designed with vibrant colours that really make it pop from the page. There are elements within the colouring such as the light blues and purples that really give this book it’s feeling of spiritual presence and magic that makes it so intriguing to look at.

The lettering is clear and there is an interesting technique used in this book that makes the atmosphere of the town seem busy, without any actual words being used. I can’t recall many if any, other comics that use this technique of having speech bubbles with scribbles inside to make it seem like there is the sound of dialogue amongst the street without giving the reader a bunch of unimportant text to read that would otherwise feel like a waste of time. I find this to be a brilliant and unique design choice by the letterer of this book and I hope to see more of it as it gives the background and scenery some life without drawing away your attention from the main focus.

Conclusion:

This story will be unlike any other comic you find on the shelves at your local store. This will be one that really catches your attention and I would definitely recommend giving it a read. The premise seems unique, the art is eye-catching every page is worth a turn.

The Tiger’s Tongue #1 is available from July 6, 2022 from Mad Cave Studios!