Customer Reviews

Poison Elves Ventures Volume 2: Amrahlynn (v. 2)

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"Poison Elves: Amrahylnn" is the latest collection of tales chronicalling the adventures and misadventures of one of the greatest comic book characters ever created- Lusiphur Malache. Ironically, Luse does not actually appear in most of these stories. The 'Ventures' series is meant to focus on some of Luse's co-stars and their unique personalities. As longtime fans of the regular Poison Elves series no doubt know, Drew Hayes has had ongoing health issues that sidelined the ongoing storyline. So, what's a poor PE fan to do while awaiting the continuation of the regular series? Enter writer Keith Davidsen and artist Aaron Bordner, the minds behind "Ventures".

This TPB collects four issues of "Ventures", each narrated by Parintachin, the infamously demented imp inhabiting Luse's sanity. A virtual wellspring of knowledge about Luse and those with whom he comes in contact, naturally, 'Par' has got some stories to tell:

"Cassandra"- Does love truly extend beyond death? In this case, yes. Cassandra, the former lover of Luse who laid down her own life to save his, now discovers herself in a position to save him again. But she is forced to choose between saving him and possibly losing his memory forever...

"Lynn"- Enamored with the legend that is Luse, young, beautiful Lynn sets out on the dangerous path to becoming just like him. This leads her to Grig, a former friend of Luse, who agrees to help her become a master thief. However, Grig has his own sinister reasons for grooming Lynn into Lusiphur...

"Purple Marauder"- Possibly the most misunderstood character in the PE series and a ludicrously goofy departure from the typically hardened cast. Watch as the self-proclaimed smiter of women takes on a bondage cult. Maybe he'll actually learn a thing or two about women...

And finally, "Jace". Captured by the diabolical Morlagan while storming her castle and forced to become a pit fighter for the entertainment of her and her goblin horde, it seems Jace has grown complacent with his excuse for an existance. But a visit from the high wizard Tenth convinces Jace that he may hold the key to salvaging the only possible spark of hope for Elves...

Rounding out this compilation are three classic 'shorts' by the man himself, Drew Hayes. Lusiphur vs. an annoying street mime (I love this one), Lusiphur vs. a drunken idiot and finally, a bizarre battle between two imps, enacted vicariously through the minds they inhabit.

While most of the tales compiled herein would work as 'stand alone' stories, "Amrahlynn" is not a good starting point for readers new to Poison Elves. Nothing against the Davidsen/Bordner team, but while their stories/art are not quite on par (no pun intended) with the depth and memorability for which Drew is an underground legend with this series. Still, four stars well earned.