Dragon Firefly Island

    (Idiot Genius, 2006)
™ and © Idiot Genius Comics

Dragon Firefly Island is a fantasy comic that pits medieval warriors against demons that walk the Earth. The main character is Akya, a female warrior who wants to avenge her father’s death. Mike West’s world is still unfolding, but there’s a lot to like about it. First, Akya is not a voluptuous stripper with a sword. She looks like a woman who could kick your butt. She has scratches on her face and wears a dour expression. West isn’t exploiting the female form; he’s created a strong female character, albeit a derivative one.

The concept is also strong. West has developed the demons. They have a hierarchy that unfolds in a logical manner. The servants to the demons are monstrous creatures called Spider Spies and their master is Superior. Superior is established as being powerful, but even he has a master who is even more powerful. This stacks the odds in favor of the demons, making Akya’s battle that much more desperate.

West’s art is still a little rough, but some of the designs are good. Once he hits his artistic stride, this could unfold nicely. Fantasy fans should like Dragon Firefly Island.

— Tony DiGerolamo
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