3.0 ( )

Now that I've had time to calm down from my earlier excitement over this graphic novel, I think I'm finally ready to review it. Being totally honest, I'm a sucker for all things vampire related. Wait, no. That's not entirely true. I don't do sparkly vampires. Ever. Everything else is fair game though, and I especially love when something new and different comes along. Which is why I was so excited over The Strain. I had no idea this was a book first, but based off the cover art alone I knew I was going to want to devour this. I was right.

I absolutely adored the art style in this one. It has these perfectly dark and gritty illustrations that do a great job of evoking the madness of this story line. Be warned, this graphic novel has it's fair share of blood and gore. Then again, any good vampire story does so I was expecting it anyway. It's not overly gratuitous bloodshed, honestly. In fact, it helps draw the line between good and evil in the panels. I think some of those illustrations might haunt my nightmares for a bit though.

It was the story itself that really caught my attention though. This is a much different vampire story than I'd been told before. Granted it does share some of the same origin stories, but the twist on this just deliciously, well... twisted. If you're like me, and you haven't read the book yet, I think you'll be pleasantly surprised at what you find between these pages. If you'll permit me a small tangent, my husband isn't a big reader but he loves graphic novels. I know that one I'm reading is really good if he steals it from me. This one? He took it away after I'd only read 10 pages, and didn't give it back until he was done. It has the hubby seal of approval.

So, yes, I loved this! It was just the type of story I was hoping to get lost in, with the type of illustrative work that I just can't get enough of. I'm so thrilled that I had the opportunity to receive a review copy of this, and I can't wait to find out what happens next! That ending. Oh, that ending. I'll be here mourning my lack of the next installment if you need me. ( )

[3.5] ( )

Read for Fun (Library Book)
Overall Rating: 3.75
Story Rating: 3.50
Graphics Rating: 4.00

First Thought when Finished: The Strain by David Lapham was one of my first ever graphic novels. While I admit I wanted just a tad bit more story, the graphics were amazing. It was visually stunning!

Part of my Read It, Rate It, File It, Done Reviews ( )

This is the unusual story which has been told many times of a virus being released into a country and two people struggle to be believed and solve the virus before it spreads. The art work in this graphic novel is good although the art work between chapters is exceptional and really make the book. There are parts of the story that are a little unbelievable none more so than the speed that the main character accepts the explanation for what is going on.

The story flows well and keeps the reader engaged. The action is well depicted graphically and this is a very addictive read. I can't wait for the next one to be released to see where the story progresses. ( )