Discover the origins of Critical Role’s beloved adventuring party from their second campaign in Critical Role: The Mighty Nein Origins–Jester Lavorre, the first in a new series of original graphic novels. Jester Lavorre had an unconventional upbringing, even for one born in cosmopolitan Nicodranas. Daughter of the famed Ruby of the Sea, she had many opportunities for mischief as a small child, of which she took full advantage! Now the mysteries of Jester’s early years are revealed including her first meeting with the Traveler, and the fateful events that set her on a path to eventually join the Mighty Nein.
What started as a casual Dungeons and Dragons game between a group of professional voice actors became a hit streaming show that created a huge and loyal fanbase. Several comic book tie-ins and an animated series have been released covering the first campaign, so it is only fitting that the second campaign is delved into as well. Obviously, the fandom (Critters) will be eager to explore the origins of their favourite characters. But given that the original show’s running time can be a bit intimidating for newcomers, it is also a great jumping on point for newcomers.
Laura Bailey’s character Jester Lavorre has been one of the most popular characters to come out of the series with a huge online following and a large amount of fanart to her name. With an intriguing backstory, she is the perfect character to open this latest Critical Role comic series. Not only are many mysteries of her past solved, but readers also get a chance to see Jester in her element causing mischief and partaking in crazy adventures.
Sam Maggs is a highly versatile writer whose comic work covers a variety of genres and properties including Star Trek, My Little Pony, Invader Zim and Captain Marvel. She has also worked on several hit video games including Ratchet & Clank and Marvel’s Spider-Man for Insomniac, and Dungeons and Dragons: Dark Alliance for Wizards of the Coast. Given these credentials, she is a perfect choice to bring Laura Bailey’s fan-favourite character to the comic format, and proves very quickly that she has a perfect voice and understanding of Jester. On the illustration front, regular series contributor Hunter Severn Bonyun provides delightfully colourful and imaginative artwork that perfectly matches Maggs’ style of storytelling.
Critical Role fans will leap at this opportunity to delve further into the background of their favourite characters, whilst newcomers looking for a jumping on point will find this a welcome read.
Critical Role: The Mighty Nein Origins–Jester Lavorre is out 9 December from Dark Horse (9781506723761, h/b, £14.99)
Or support your local bookstore.
Want regular updates and weekly reviews on the latest in graphic novels and manga? Follow us on Twitter @turnaroundcomix.
