‘Alpha and Omega: Cry Wolf Vol. 1 #1’ review
By Brittney MacDonald, Staff Writer
2/5
In the second attempt at adapting a series by popular urban fantasy novelist Patricia Briggs, we are given Alpha and Omega: Cry Wolf. Despite being a huge fan of Briggs’ novels, I regret to say that this book is no more successful as a graphic novel than its predecessor, Mercy Thompson: Homecoming. The first instalment of this title is incredibly short, and Briggs’ novel style isn’t properly adapted to accommodate a story arc that even the most basic single-issue comic book requires.
It’s difficult to discuss plot with this title, because in truth it lacks one. Despite this being listed as a graphic novel, I suspect that this first volume was actually done as a single-issue, or at least should have been. The problem with adapting a novel for a segmented release like single-issue comic books is that comic books require small story arcs even within their limited issue as well as the overarching plot of the entire series. Each issue must be self-sustaining. Normally if this is a problem with a first issue, it’s because the storyline is missing some sort of conflict resolution since it is meant to entice a reader into reading the rest of the series. For Alpha and Omega, there isn’t even an established conflict. The entire book is just brief character introductions and expositional world building.
The art by Jordan Gunderson is neither good nor bad. For a comic book, it’s fairly run of the mill with strong lines and an even balance between light and dark. To its credit, the issue is full-colour, which improves the impression of it greatly. The cover art by Jenny Frison is amazing.
Despite my love for the Alpha and Omega literary novels, I’d recommend avoiding the graphic novel for the time being.
