The Periodic Adventures of Señor 105 - Volume 3
by Philip Purser-Hallard, Joe Curreri, and Stewart Sheargold
Ebook collection available now
Paperback/ebook available now
After reviewing the first two installments of this series, I was informed by Cody Schell that Volume 3 is where it really hits its stride—where we get a clear view of everything these "periodic adventures" could have been if allowed to continue beyond these nine installments. Having read this third volume, I'm inclined to agree. Where the first was a solid introduction to the characters and the second dipped its toes into more fantastical themes, this third installment solidifies the tone and worldview: an adventure serial that honors its many inspirations while also growing beyond them to create something entirely new.
Philip Purser-Hallard is always a joy to read, and "Horizon" is no exception. In this novella, 105 and Sheila reunite with Lori Flaherty in a transdimensional adventure that imagines a blended alternate history. The alternate world in which our heroes find themselves is the real treat of this story: a unique blending of ancient cultures that makes more sense than it ought to. It's a vivid adventure packed with exciting battles and threads of a bigger, stranger world.
"The Señor 105 Adventure Book" by Joe Curreri is two stories in one. The first introduces master thief Fantastique, going toe-to-toe with 105, Sheila, and Lori as they all vie for a cursed gemstone. This was my personal favorite of the book, and not just because it has a gentleman thief and a giant robot (two of my favorite things). It also gives Lori even more of a chance to shine, which is well deserved. The second story is told from the point of view of the Iguana, a foe of 105 who seems to cheat death over and over in his pursuit of revenge. The upshot is a brilliant twist on the concept of a Saturday morning cartoon villain. Together, these two stories showcase the series's ability to play with, subvert, and spotlight classic themes in adventure serials.
Last but not least is Stewart Sheargold's "Spectrum." The stakes are raised significantly as 105 and Sheila initially believe they are witnessing the discovery of a 106th element. But the truth is far more dire: an alien entity known as the Faceless Man wants to take over the world, and he plans to use Sheila to do so. This adventure sees the return of Mr. Tea and the arrival of Hilda, a brilliant lady with ties to the Faceless Man. In addition to being a rollicking adventure with end-of-season energy, "Spectrum" also has a magnificent guest cast and plenty of room for them to shine alongside the regulars.
This third volume really is a glorious representation of everything Señor 105 can be. While these periodic adventures may not have gone on as long as intended, perhaps the arrival of these new volumes in print will interest more people in continued stories. Either way, this collection as a whole is a grand one.
TEA PAIRING: A Date with Mr. Darcy
Given the multiple burgeoning romances in this edition, as well as Hilda's own tealeaf-based powers, this blend feels like a perfect fit. It's also my favorite in the Chapters catalogue. Use my code KARA15 for 15% off this and other blends from Chapters!
0 comments:
Post a Comment