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Fables
Fables, Vol. 9: Sons of Empire
Winner of Fourteen Eisner Awards
The best-laid plans.
The free Fables living in the mundane world have struck a decisive blow against the Adversary, destroying one of his most valuable assets at the very heart of his empire - and setting the stage for an all-out war between the worlds in the process. Now, while the ruler of the Homelands licks his wounds and gathers his forces, the denizens of Fabletown have a rare chance to savor the brief peace their victory has brought them. Everyone, however, knows that this is just the calm before the storm - and that even the winds themselves will have to choose sides before it's over.
Collecting: Fables 52-59
The best-laid plans.
The free Fables living in the mundane world have struck a decisive blow against the Adversary, destroying one of his most valuable assets at the very heart of his empire - and setting the stage for an all-out war between the worlds in the process. Now, while the ruler of the Homelands licks his wounds and gathers his forces, the denizens of Fabletown have a rare chance to savor the brief peace their victory has brought them. Everyone, however, knows that this is just the calm before the storm - and that even the winds themselves will have to choose sides before it's over.
Collecting: Fables 52-59
202 pages, Paperback
First published June 6, 2007
81 people are currently reading
3911 people want to read
About the author
Bill Willingham
959 books2,818 followersIn the late 1970s to early 1980s he drew fantasy ink pictures for the Dungeons & Dragons Basic and Expert game rulebooks. He first gained attention for his 1980s comic book series Elementals published by Comico, which he both wrote and drew. However, for reasons unknown, the series had trouble maintaining an original schedule, and Willingham's position in the industry remained spotty for many years. He contributed stories to Green Lantern and started his own independent, black-and-white comics series Coventry which lasted only 3 issues. He also produced the pornographic series Ironwood for Eros Comix.
In the late 1990s Willingham reestablished himself as a prolific writer. He produced the 13-issue Pantheon for Lone Star Press and wrote a pair of short novels about the modern adventures of the hero Beowulf, published by the writer's collective, Clockwork Storybook, of which Willingham was a founding member. In the early 2000s he began writing extensively for DC Comics, including the limited series Proposition Player, a pair of limited series about the Greek witch Thessaly from The Sandman, and most notably the popular series Fables
In the late 1990s Willingham reestablished himself as a prolific writer. He produced the 13-issue Pantheon for Lone Star Press and wrote a pair of short novels about the modern adventures of the hero Beowulf, published by the writer's collective, Clockwork Storybook, of which Willingham was a founding member. In the early 2000s he began writing extensively for DC Comics, including the limited series Proposition Player, a pair of limited series about the Greek witch Thessaly from The Sandman, and most notably the popular series Fables
Ratings & Reviews
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 541 reviews
December 25, 2021
The Adversary comes up with a new plan to invade and revenge themselves for Bigby's attack on the magical forest. They send in the slimy witch hunter, Hansel, as an ambassador and take advantage of his diplomatic immunity to spy on Fabletown.
This one also gives Hansel's backstory and how he and his sister are connected with Frau Totenkinder.
She should have eaten that kid when she had the chance.
There's a breather in the war plans when Aldred draws Father and Son, a story of Bigby, his children, and their grandfather. At Snow's request, Bigby goes on a family trip to visit his father, Mr. North, and attempts to make peace with him for the sake of his children.
The results are...interesting.
Issue 59 is a sweet fanservice with Willingham answering different questions from the readers, each one drawn by a different artist. It isn't strictly necessary to read, but it does show the level of appreciation that he had for the people who were buying his story and I enjoyed every one of his answers.
This was yet another great volume of Fables!
Highly Recommended.
This one also gives Hansel's backstory and how he and his sister are connected with Frau Totenkinder.
She should have eaten that kid when she had the chance.
There's a breather in the war plans when Aldred draws Father and Son, a story of Bigby, his children, and their grandfather. At Snow's request, Bigby goes on a family trip to visit his father, Mr. North, and attempts to make peace with him for the sake of his children.
The results are...interesting.
Issue 59 is a sweet fanservice with Willingham answering different questions from the readers, each one drawn by a different artist. It isn't strictly necessary to read, but it does show the level of appreciation that he had for the people who were buying his story and I enjoyed every one of his answers.
This was yet another great volume of Fables!
Highly Recommended.
February 26, 2021
In which the Adversary brings together a committee to decide what to do with Fabletown; Bigby faces his father; and a there are special pages dedicated to answering reader questions. Bill Willingham and co. shows us more of the Adversary and his people, more of the Snow Queen, more of North's world and more Flycatcher. By now the constructed reality is so tight, you just sit back and enjoy the experience, as the story is unveiled issue by issue. 8 out of 12.
May 7, 2023
Well, after Bigby snuck into the Homelands and delivered quite the volatile message to Gipetto, it was to be expected that his reaction would be ... emotional. He considered that grove holy after all. But how far he's willing to go ... sheesh! The old man really either never was a NICE old man or he's off his meds or something.
But this volume not only tells of the empirical plans for Fabletown and us mundies, it also shows some nice Christmas-related stories and tells of a trip Bigby, Snow and their kids took to see Mr. North. Seriously, Bigby's family history is sad and it's remarkable Bigby turned out a nice guy!
Then there were a few very short interludes that I didn't really see the point of but some where a bit like a joke told in panels and they made me chuckle so that was OK.
Most interesting since it was completely new was Hansel's story. I hope and expect we'll see more of this psycho and I hope that someone like Cinderella, Snow or Red will be the one to take him out as that would be poetic justice.
Interestingly, the art was quite different depending on the issue. Still, none of it was anything special.
What the art had to say was way more important anyway.
Nevertheless, I wanna know who will die and who will survive and what the future holds - especially for certain characters I've grown to love. And let's be real here: I wouldn't mind a nice all-out war if done right!
But this volume not only tells of the empirical plans for Fabletown and us mundies, it also shows some nice Christmas-related stories and tells of a trip Bigby, Snow and their kids took to see Mr. North. Seriously, Bigby's family history is sad and it's remarkable Bigby turned out a nice guy!
Then there were a few very short interludes that I didn't really see the point of but some where a bit like a joke told in panels and they made me chuckle so that was OK.
Most interesting since it was completely new was Hansel's story. I hope and expect we'll see more of this psycho and I hope that someone like Cinderella, Snow or Red will be the one to take him out as that would be poetic justice.
Interestingly, the art was quite different depending on the issue. Still, none of it was anything special.
What the art had to say was way more important anyway.
Nevertheless, I wanna know who will die and who will survive and what the future holds - especially for certain characters I've grown to love. And let's be real here: I wouldn't mind a nice all-out war if done right!
June 9, 2019
I always enjoy these stories. They are getting thicker though, and it takes longer to read them. They are no longer a quick read and Vol. 10 gets even thicker.
WAR IS COMING.
We see both sides making plans to defend against the other side. Ghepetto sent a diplomat to Fabletown who is Hansel and he hates witches. We learn something interesting, almost about Frau Totenkinder. We also go to Bigby's mansion and see Christmas with the cubs and there is a flying carpet. They fly to the land of fables to spend time with grandpa, the north wind. The family tensions are high and they all come out when the cubs are threatened by something in the forest.
Not ever one gets a lot of page time, but the story revolves around Snow and Bigby and then Hansel. A lot happened and it's getting very tense.
I really don't want to see a war. I guess this is where it has all been leading up too, but I am tried of war in stories. I see the cover of Vol. 10 looks like it's coming.
I will keep on reading. I'm not even halfway yet in this series.
WAR IS COMING.
We see both sides making plans to defend against the other side. Ghepetto sent a diplomat to Fabletown who is Hansel and he hates witches. We learn something interesting, almost about Frau Totenkinder. We also go to Bigby's mansion and see Christmas with the cubs and there is a flying carpet. They fly to the land of fables to spend time with grandpa, the north wind. The family tensions are high and they all come out when the cubs are threatened by something in the forest.
Not ever one gets a lot of page time, but the story revolves around Snow and Bigby and then Hansel. A lot happened and it's getting very tense.
I really don't want to see a war. I guess this is where it has all been leading up too, but I am tried of war in stories. I see the cover of Vol. 10 looks like it's coming.
I will keep on reading. I'm not even halfway yet in this series.
November 4, 2017
"Hold the jar upright, Snow. Don't spill my brothers."
As always, Bigby and Snow are adorable, especially with their kids, but there was just something lacking in this volume. I felt like any organization was pretty nonexistent. None of the plots really flowed well with the others, and I still don't get why this volume is called "Sons of Empire". Honestly, I don't even think the separate stories were very strong on their own. The script and the art weren't as good in comparison to previous volumes. The lines weren't as developed or witty, and I personally want more of just Mark Buckingham and Steve Leialoha's styles of art.
On a side note, I'm low-key upset that Bigby and Snow's seventh son (Ghost) didn't make an appearance. He at least gets a stocking above the fireplace but even then, his name isn't on it! Sadness. His whole situation isn't even mentioned in this volume. It's like he doesn't even exist...
Overall, not a very strong volume of Fables.
As always, Bigby and Snow are adorable, especially with their kids, but there was just something lacking in this volume. I felt like any organization was pretty nonexistent. None of the plots really flowed well with the others, and I still don't get why this volume is called "Sons of Empire". Honestly, I don't even think the separate stories were very strong on their own. The script and the art weren't as good in comparison to previous volumes. The lines weren't as developed or witty, and I personally want more of just Mark Buckingham and Steve Leialoha's styles of art.
On a side note, I'm low-key upset that Bigby and Snow's seventh son (Ghost) didn't make an appearance. He at least gets a stocking above the fireplace but even then, his name isn't on it! Sadness. His whole situation isn't even mentioned in this volume. It's like he doesn't even exist...
Overall, not a very strong volume of Fables.
May 22, 2014
THE SERIES
What if fairy tale characters existed in our world? And what if they had ways of not revealing themselves to us per their magic? This popular series focuses on such a concept. It has the usual archetypes and characters taking some liberties but always trying to make things interesting. Note that the focus is typically upon European fairy tales with a smidgen from other regions.
As of 2012 this series has won 14 Eisner Awards, most notably Best Writer, Best Short Story and Best Series.
There was talk of turning this into a TV series but instead ABC decided to go with “Once Upon A Time”. Bad move.
Telltale Games announced the making of a video game in February 2011.
Recommended for mature readers.
BOOK NINE
The first half of this graphic novel focuses upon the many lieutenant villains of the Adversary (the big villain versus the Fables). I really enjoyed appearances by Lumi (The Snow Queen), Hansel, The Nome King, Bright Day, Pinocchio, Geppetto and Muddlecock.
What follows are the plans to bring havoc upon Earth and meanwhile the Fables are using their resources as well as those of the Mundies (the humans) to surprise the Adversary's Empire themselves. There are also several flashbacks of what said people were doing, especially Hansel's time with Gretel and then his breaking away from her in their adult years as he not so surprisingly became a witch hunter.
The other half of the tales varied in quality for me. Most of them were 2-4 pages with short stories especially focusing on the various Christmas events. I'd say Wolf and Snow White taking their children to visit Wolf's father was one of the more interesting shorts though this one was more than the usual four pages.
Artwork varied for me. Some was the usual Fables style and others felt like a notch or two down like it was rushed.
This covers issues 52-59 of the trade paperbacks. Written by Bill Willingham and artwork by Mark Buckingham but other contributions by several artists who would fill a page.
ARTWORK PRESENTATION: B; CHARACTERS/DIALOGUE: B to B plus; STORY/PLOTTING: B minus to B; FABLE FOCUSES: B; WHEN READ: 2010 (reviewed early October 2012 after a reread); OVERALL GRADE: B.
What if fairy tale characters existed in our world? And what if they had ways of not revealing themselves to us per their magic? This popular series focuses on such a concept. It has the usual archetypes and characters taking some liberties but always trying to make things interesting. Note that the focus is typically upon European fairy tales with a smidgen from other regions.
As of 2012 this series has won 14 Eisner Awards, most notably Best Writer, Best Short Story and Best Series.
There was talk of turning this into a TV series but instead ABC decided to go with “Once Upon A Time”. Bad move.
Telltale Games announced the making of a video game in February 2011.
Recommended for mature readers.
BOOK NINE
The first half of this graphic novel focuses upon the many lieutenant villains of the Adversary (the big villain versus the Fables). I really enjoyed appearances by Lumi (The Snow Queen), Hansel, The Nome King, Bright Day, Pinocchio, Geppetto and Muddlecock.
What follows are the plans to bring havoc upon Earth and meanwhile the Fables are using their resources as well as those of the Mundies (the humans) to surprise the Adversary's Empire themselves. There are also several flashbacks of what said people were doing, especially Hansel's time with Gretel and then his breaking away from her in their adult years as he not so surprisingly became a witch hunter.
The other half of the tales varied in quality for me. Most of them were 2-4 pages with short stories especially focusing on the various Christmas events. I'd say Wolf and Snow White taking their children to visit Wolf's father was one of the more interesting shorts though this one was more than the usual four pages.
Artwork varied for me. Some was the usual Fables style and others felt like a notch or two down like it was rushed.
This covers issues 52-59 of the trade paperbacks. Written by Bill Willingham and artwork by Mark Buckingham but other contributions by several artists who would fill a page.
ARTWORK PRESENTATION: B; CHARACTERS/DIALOGUE: B to B plus; STORY/PLOTTING: B minus to B; FABLE FOCUSES: B; WHEN READ: 2010 (reviewed early October 2012 after a reread); OVERALL GRADE: B.
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January 16, 2024Жила-була і переклала.
Перша сюжетна арка завершується в 11 томі (й цьогоріч маємо цю епопею завершити). Вона про війну вільних казкових персонажів у вигнанні проти брутального ворога, котрий окупував їхню казкову батьківщину і влаштував там імперію зла. Шляхом нескладних математичних операцій легко встановити, що ми наближаємося до гранд фіналу цього сюжету, а отже, атмосфера гнітюча: ось батьки намагаються виховати хуліганистих дітей нормальними людьми - в цей час за кадром хтось снує дуже детальні плани, як їх убити. Ось люди закохуються, нервово змінюють свій імідж, щоб сподобатися, нервуються, що новий імідж сподобається об'єкту закоханості менше - в цей час за кадром хтось снує дуже детальні плани, як їх убити. Ось люди намагаються вколотити трошки здорового глузду в голову самодуру-популісту, який переміг на виборах і вже про це жалкує - в цей час за кадром, як ви вже здогадалися, хтось снує дуже детальні плани, як їх убити. Загалом, страшенно #relatablecontent, ми в такому живемо!
Прикольні штуки з цього тому:
* В цьому томі ми познайомимося з Рапунцель, і мені страшно подобаються всі ці геги про спроби пов'язати приколи з казок із потребами життя у прозаїчному світі! От, скажімо, ви замислювалися, як складно приховати від посполитих існування магії, якщо в тебе волосся росте зі швидкістю 10 см за годину?
* Я вперше читала "Казки" сто років тому й дуже мало пам'ятаю, тому аж щелепа відвалилася, коли побачила, кому озвучили спіч про "ти обранець, який рятуватиме світ" (готова на щось посперечатися, що ви теж не вгадаєте, до кого це):
*
"звертайся у свій ТЦК"
* З мінусів - у томі багато різних художників, не всі вони однаково талановиті, від декого очі реально кривавлять.
Але аж не віриться, що ми на фінішній прямій!
Перша сюжетна арка завершується в 11 томі (й цьогоріч маємо цю епопею завершити). Вона про війну вільних казкових персонажів у вигнанні проти брутального ворога, котрий окупував їхню казкову батьківщину і влаштував там імперію зла. Шляхом нескладних математичних операцій легко встановити, що ми наближаємося до гранд фіналу цього сюжету, а отже, атмосфера гнітюча: ось батьки намагаються виховати хуліганистих дітей нормальними людьми - в цей час за кадром хтось снує дуже детальні плани, як їх убити. Ось люди закохуються, нервово змінюють свій імідж, щоб сподобатися, нервуються, що новий імідж сподобається об'єкту закоханості менше - в цей час за кадром хтось снує дуже детальні плани, як їх убити. Ось люди намагаються вколотити трошки здорового глузду в голову самодуру-популісту, який переміг на виборах і вже про це жалкує - в цей час за кадром, як ви вже здогадалися, хтось снує дуже детальні плани, як їх убити. Загалом, страшенно #relatablecontent, ми в такому живемо!
Прикольні штуки з цього тому:
* В цьому томі ми познайомимося з Рапунцель, і мені страшно подобаються всі ці геги про спроби пов'язати приколи з казок із потребами життя у прозаїчному світі! От, скажімо, ви замислювалися, як складно приховати від посполитих існування магії, якщо в тебе волосся росте зі швидкістю 10 см за годину?
* Я вперше читала "Казки" сто років тому й дуже мало пам'ятаю, тому аж щелепа відвалилася, коли побачила, кому озвучили спіч про "ти обранець, який рятуватиме світ" (готова на щось посперечатися, що ви теж не вгадаєте, до кого це):
"Насувається велика війна, і коли вона почнеться, загине багато світів, можливо, включно з цим. Якщо тільки в тебе не вистачить сили і волі на важкі і страшні вчинки, які необхідно здійснити.
Ти зможеш врятувати їх усіх. Чи більшість. Чи хоч когось. Ймовірно".
*
"звертайся у свій ТЦК"
* З мінусів - у томі багато різних художників, не всі вони однаково талановиті, від декого очі реально кривавлять.
Але аж не віриться, що ми на фінішній прямій!
August 8, 2019
In which we learn more about the relationship between Bigby and his dad ; questions are answered. I love the stories involving the wolf cubs!
March 12, 2025
This volume was a disconnect for me, while I usually have an open mind for trying out different approaches mid story to keep the heat going, this volume made me have mixed feelings about it, while the quick short stories were good in filling many gaps in the timeline and adding some color to existing sideline characters, it felt exactly like that, a gap filler.
Yet, it contained developments on the main timeline that were widely dispersed over the many short stories.
Yes, it was clear enough that a war is coming, that Gepetto will not heed to the warnings of Bigby that were very srongly delivered, this volume details a plan for the invasion and total annihlation of the Mundy world, and even takes us on a step by step walkthrough of the battle plan, which in my opinion means probably that it will not happen due to whatever events unfold in the coming volumes, or that it will deviate, or even fail to deploy...
MiM
Yet, it contained developments on the main timeline that were widely dispersed over the many short stories.
Yes, it was clear enough that a war is coming, that Gepetto will not heed to the warnings of Bigby that were very srongly delivered, this volume details a plan for the invasion and total annihlation of the Mundy world, and even takes us on a step by step walkthrough of the battle plan, which in my opinion means probably that it will not happen due to whatever events unfold in the coming volumes, or that it will deviate, or even fail to deploy...
MiM
February 5, 2024
Now that Fables is in the 'Public Domain', I thought it was time I read the entire series (including all spinoffs and specials) from start to finish in sequential tpb reading order. Here we go!
Fables First-to-Finale reading #12
Fables vol 09: Sons of Empire
It starts with a war council and a few haircuts. Hansel returns to Fabletown as envoy of the advsary, and we get his gruesome origin. Final war plans are decided, and then it's Christmas! Next, there's a two-parter with penicils by a fav of mine Mike Allred! Bigby finally confronts his father, and they have a long-winded conversation. Lastly, a unique Q&A issue that answers all of your burning questions and more.
Fables First-to-Finale reading #12
Fables vol 09: Sons of Empire
It starts with a war council and a few haircuts. Hansel returns to Fabletown as envoy of the advsary, and we get his gruesome origin. Final war plans are decided, and then it's Christmas! Next, there's a two-parter with penicils by a fav of mine Mike Allred! Bigby finally confronts his father, and they have a long-winded conversation. Lastly, a unique Q&A issue that answers all of your burning questions and more.
August 3, 2013
I'm going to come right out and say it: Fables is one of the most remarkably consistent graphic novel or comic book series that I have ever read. It has intriguing characters (characters to love, characters to hate, characters that sit idly in the background) - and it should since they were drawn from other stories, fairytales and mythology. There I would love a studio to get their hands on these and turn them into a television series or a movie franchise.
This particular volume's story focuses on the idea of launching a war against the Mundane world (our Earth) from Fableland and the pre-emptive strikes necessary. This of course follows on from what Bigby did in a secret mission in the previous volume. The Adversary and his forces therefore make several plans (which I presume will be followed up on in later novels) in regard to how to attack Fabletown and turn our world into their own personal prison world. Speaking of Bigby Wolf, this volume focuses on Bigby's family and particularly his relationship with his father. It's a fascinating analysis of the nature of relationships in a way and I found the way in which Bigby responds to his father incredibly interesting. The fact that Bigby's father is Mr North has always shown off the unique way in which Fables deals with the source material.
All of this goes to show that taking ideas from other sources is not necessarily a bad thing. Not when you create your own incredibly clever spin on them. And that is what Fables constantly delivers. A unique twist on old fairytales and classic stories that have become part of our shared Western mythos (and a part of the Eastern Mythology also). Fables remains a highly recommended graphic novel series to begin. It has the depth of full classic novels but with the added beauty of picture artwork.
May 21, 2023
A very large number of artists contributed to this volume. It alternates between the main story and variously themed amusing short stories. The artwork in the short stories is hit and miss.
Spoilers from here on… you should not proceed, if you are still reading or plan to read this series at some point.
Gepetto‘s hut and the holy grove have burned down. The emperor is angry. Where is Pinocchio in all this? Ensorceled! Forces gather in the Imperial City. The Snow Queen makes an announcement… Fabletown is in deep trouble. Permanent Winter is upon us!
Aaaaaand…. We get a short story about Hair!? Ok, yes, the Rapunzel story was fun and kinda sad…
Small recommendation for the author: get a beta-reader whose mother tongue is German. Just saying. It‘s weird, m‘kay?
The Four Plagues, um… “This is how the world ends.“ 😬
That is a grim plan of action! The Snow Queen is scary.
The next short story, Porky Pine Pie, has very pretty artwork. Watercolour style, my thing…
And then back to potential warfare and Burning Times and an interesting followup to the fairytale of Hänsel and Gretel. 🍭🍬🍭🍬
And another short story, A Thorn in Their Side, about that Mundy reporter following the Fables in their tracks. Very short, pleasant artwork. I wonder if he will end up at the Farm one of these days?
Over There, Part 4 of Sons of Empire: This feels a bit like the first X-Men movie and Bigby Wolf reminds me more and more of Wolverine. The Adversary is planning an all-out war. We get some war games and adjustments to plans… well done. 🐺🐺🐺🐺🐺
And another short story / interlude… The Road to Paradise. Three visually impaired mice… ok, that one was odd and a bit pointless… 🐁🐁🐁
Followed by a strange Christmas triplet thing with Jack, Wolf Valley and then the farm. I like the developing friendship between Boy Blue and Rose Red. I assume this part came out around Christmas. Merry Christmas, Fables team! The Christmas story with the kids is cute, but I‘m a little disappointed how gender stereotypical they are portrayed. 🤶🎅🎄🎅🤶
Father and Son: Aka Mr. North and Bigby Wolf. And family. The art was not my thing. 🐺🐺🐺
Burning Questions: Snippets of 3 pages each or so, answering questions from fans. Ok… 🤷♀️ 🤷♂️
This volume was a mixed bag, the short stories disrupted the build-up of suspense of the main story.
Collecting: Fables 52-59
Full review with some artwork at my Wordpress blog
Spoilers from here on… you should not proceed, if you are still reading or plan to read this series at some point.
Gepetto‘s hut and the holy grove have burned down. The emperor is angry. Where is Pinocchio in all this? Ensorceled! Forces gather in the Imperial City. The Snow Queen makes an announcement… Fabletown is in deep trouble. Permanent Winter is upon us!
Aaaaaand…. We get a short story about Hair!? Ok, yes, the Rapunzel story was fun and kinda sad…
Small recommendation for the author: get a beta-reader whose mother tongue is German. Just saying. It‘s weird, m‘kay?
The Four Plagues, um… “This is how the world ends.“ 😬
That is a grim plan of action! The Snow Queen is scary.
The next short story, Porky Pine Pie, has very pretty artwork. Watercolour style, my thing…
And then back to potential warfare and Burning Times and an interesting followup to the fairytale of Hänsel and Gretel. 🍭🍬🍭🍬
And another short story, A Thorn in Their Side, about that Mundy reporter following the Fables in their tracks. Very short, pleasant artwork. I wonder if he will end up at the Farm one of these days?
Over There, Part 4 of Sons of Empire: This feels a bit like the first X-Men movie and Bigby Wolf reminds me more and more of Wolverine. The Adversary is planning an all-out war. We get some war games and adjustments to plans… well done. 🐺🐺🐺🐺🐺
And another short story / interlude… The Road to Paradise. Three visually impaired mice… ok, that one was odd and a bit pointless… 🐁🐁🐁
Followed by a strange Christmas triplet thing with Jack, Wolf Valley and then the farm. I like the developing friendship between Boy Blue and Rose Red. I assume this part came out around Christmas. Merry Christmas, Fables team! The Christmas story with the kids is cute, but I‘m a little disappointed how gender stereotypical they are portrayed. 🤶🎅🎄🎅🤶
Father and Son: Aka Mr. North and Bigby Wolf. And family. The art was not my thing. 🐺🐺🐺
Burning Questions: Snippets of 3 pages each or so, answering questions from fans. Ok… 🤷♀️ 🤷♂️
This volume was a mixed bag, the short stories disrupted the build-up of suspense of the main story.
Collecting: Fables 52-59
Full review with some artwork at my Wordpress blog
October 11, 2018
A story of sons and fathers.
World: The art is always great, sure there are some great artists here but mainly Buckingham and his art is amazing. He's responsible for a lot of the love I have for this world, it's full of character and the creativity is wonderful. The world building is pretty great with the continuing story of the war between Fabletown and the Emperor, it's building towards something bigger and setting the stage for it. Then there is the world building where it's about characters and mainly the wolf family, amazing.
Story: The writing is so good, it's effortless in it's storytelling and world building. The story with the war is done well, the picture it paints is horrendous but also you can't turn away cause it's also magical and mesmerizing, the moving pieces in that story is done well. Both sides and their story and the intrigue is great. The Christmas stuff just warms your heart and brings out all the feels after the doom and gloom of the previous couple of issues, Willingham is so good at putting magic and joy back in the series to balance the dire and gloom. The story of Bigby and the family visit his father is great, not only is it a story about character but it also has huge consequences for the war. The complex relationship is done so well and the art is so beautiful showing the personalities and emotions of all involved.
Characters: There are so many characters that are great in this book from Fly to Ghepetto to Charming to Bigby all are so wonderfully written with great chemistry and dialog on the page. I want to focus on the cubs this time around as we get a large dose of them when we have the Christmas and also the trip issues and it's these kids and their slow and sure development that shows great character work. There are six that we see and their dialog and the art that is there to separate them is so well done, we get the cubs words through Ambrose and we see the balance Bigby is instilling in them with the wolf and the human form and it's these little moments that create a beautiful family picture that Willingham will use in the future, from Blossom to Winter, Dar to Conner these characters are just wonderfully done.
I like this arc, it's not as action packed as previous arcs and there is a lot of setting up to do, but I love it cause these issues were about character and that is the best thing about Fables. Oh and the Fly stuff is AWESOME!!!
Onward to the next book!
World: The art is always great, sure there are some great artists here but mainly Buckingham and his art is amazing. He's responsible for a lot of the love I have for this world, it's full of character and the creativity is wonderful. The world building is pretty great with the continuing story of the war between Fabletown and the Emperor, it's building towards something bigger and setting the stage for it. Then there is the world building where it's about characters and mainly the wolf family, amazing.
Story: The writing is so good, it's effortless in it's storytelling and world building. The story with the war is done well, the picture it paints is horrendous but also you can't turn away cause it's also magical and mesmerizing, the moving pieces in that story is done well. Both sides and their story and the intrigue is great. The Christmas stuff just warms your heart and brings out all the feels after the doom and gloom of the previous couple of issues, Willingham is so good at putting magic and joy back in the series to balance the dire and gloom. The story of Bigby and the family visit his father is great, not only is it a story about character but it also has huge consequences for the war. The complex relationship is done so well and the art is so beautiful showing the personalities and emotions of all involved.
Characters: There are so many characters that are great in this book from Fly to Ghepetto to Charming to Bigby all are so wonderfully written with great chemistry and dialog on the page. I want to focus on the cubs this time around as we get a large dose of them when we have the Christmas and also the trip issues and it's these kids and their slow and sure development that shows great character work. There are six that we see and their dialog and the art that is there to separate them is so well done, we get the cubs words through Ambrose and we see the balance Bigby is instilling in them with the wolf and the human form and it's these little moments that create a beautiful family picture that Willingham will use in the future, from Blossom to Winter, Dar to Conner these characters are just wonderfully done.
I like this arc, it's not as action packed as previous arcs and there is a lot of setting up to do, but I love it cause these issues were about character and that is the best thing about Fables. Oh and the Fly stuff is AWESOME!!!
Onward to the next book!
April 12, 2019
After a long break, I have drifted back to Fables to finish it off. I really shouldn't have taken the break. This was very good.
Without being too spoilery, let's just say this volume shows the preparations for the Emperor's invasion of Fabletown and the utter destruction of the Earth. I am, personally, glad that the Emperor also has plans for rescuing Baba Yaga. But the Empire also sends out a Diplomatic Envoy. It turns out Hansel (from "Hansel and Gretel") was scarred by the events of his witch encounter and went on to become a fanatical witch hunter. He now works for the Emperor. It's twisted but an awesome concept.
There is also a rather interesting and slightly amusing Christmas tale, wherein Bigby's children meet Santa. The other main story is Bigby taking his kids, along with wife Snow White, visit his hated father-The North Wind. There is a very cool story there, but I won't spoil it. Suffice to say I really liked the evil versions of the monsters from "Where the Wild Things Are" (which personally I would have liked more if the monsters had eaten the kid) and their true identity was cool. But no spoilers. You ought to read this yourself.
There are some extra things in this volume such as short stories scattered throughout, the ones near the end being 2 page short stories answering reader's questions, but it could be considered filler-I'd rather he spent more time on the upcoming war. That's why only 4 stars. But, I must point out the short story of the Three Blind Mice story as awesome! It was beautifully illustrated, the prose of the mice and the wonderful humor of that story stuck with me. Well done!
So there is a lot going on here. The Empire seems to be stepping up its game. I am glad I decided to finish this volume and will certainly pick up the next in the series. Highly recommended for anyone who loves a good fantasy story or appreciates a quality comic that tells an original tale. In these times that is to be applauded. The artwork does change, depending on the tale, but overall it is quite good.
Without being too spoilery, let's just say this volume shows the preparations for the Emperor's invasion of Fabletown and the utter destruction of the Earth. I am, personally, glad that the Emperor also has plans for rescuing Baba Yaga. But the Empire also sends out a Diplomatic Envoy. It turns out Hansel (from "Hansel and Gretel") was scarred by the events of his witch encounter and went on to become a fanatical witch hunter. He now works for the Emperor. It's twisted but an awesome concept.
There is also a rather interesting and slightly amusing Christmas tale, wherein Bigby's children meet Santa. The other main story is Bigby taking his kids, along with wife Snow White, visit his hated father-The North Wind. There is a very cool story there, but I won't spoil it. Suffice to say I really liked the evil versions of the monsters from "Where the Wild Things Are" (which personally I would have liked more if the monsters had eaten the kid) and their true identity was cool. But no spoilers. You ought to read this yourself.
There are some extra things in this volume such as short stories scattered throughout, the ones near the end being 2 page short stories answering reader's questions, but it could be considered filler-I'd rather he spent more time on the upcoming war. That's why only 4 stars. But, I must point out the short story of the Three Blind Mice story as awesome! It was beautifully illustrated, the prose of the mice and the wonderful humor of that story stuck with me. Well done!
So there is a lot going on here. The Empire seems to be stepping up its game. I am glad I decided to finish this volume and will certainly pick up the next in the series. Highly recommended for anyone who loves a good fantasy story or appreciates a quality comic that tells an original tale. In these times that is to be applauded. The artwork does change, depending on the tale, but overall it is quite good.
July 26, 2015
Sons of Empire focused on Adversary's plan to rule the mundy world and Bigby family celebrating winter. With some unnecessary short stories in between.
January 17, 2014
Sons of Empire was my last Fables installment before I stated a voluntary hiatus from the series. Fact is, I love this series, and I am not eager to get burned out on it, or to be devastated when it's over. So I am going to take a break and investigate other graphic novel series for a little bit. Truth is, I doubt I'll stay away for long. So let's get to the review.
This was an excellent installment to the series. It was great because we get to see Bigby and Snow and their cubs as a settled, happy family, which gave me lots of joy. Also, they go visit Bigby's estranged father, who is also the beloved grandfather of the cubs. Bigby is hesitant to do so, but Snow asked for this as her Christmas gift. Of course, this turns out to be quite an adventure. In a word, this was a fun set of stories. There was danger for the cubs, but nothing they couldn't handle, with the help of their dad. Snow White went into a mommy rage, for good reasons. I don't think the North Wind will make such a mistake again with the cubs. It was interesting to meet some of Bigby's family. Kind of reminded me of trips to visit my family. I think some other people can understand what I mean if you have some interesting family members like I do. The art was lush and gorgeous as always. I enjoy seeing the cubs and how consistent the artwork is in individualizing them from each other. As anyone knows, I am a huge fan of Bigby and Snow, so just having more of them was a gem. This part alone is worth five stars.
The Sons of Empire arc in which we go to the Fablelands and sit in on a meeting with the Adversary and his top lieutenants wasn't quite as meaningful to me, at least emotionally. It was good to see what plans they had and what havoc they intend to reap. Pinnochio is there to be a voice of reason, a person who knows the inner workings of Fabletown. I haven't decided if he's chosen a side yet. He seems conflicted in his loyalties. I am hoping that some of the actions of his beloved father wake him up to the extent of that person's megalomania. I thought the use of the Snow Queen as a trusted leader in the Adversary's army was pretty interesting. The Snow Queen is in my top five favorite fairy tales. Willingham stays true to her character. I wonder if she will encounter Gerda and Kay later in this series??? Hansel's story arc was really disturbing, to say the least. To use a phrase from Hank Hill from Top of the Hill, "That boy's not right." He gave me the big time creepy crawlies. I can't believe he lasted as long as he did in Fabletown.
Yeah, I don't love the concept of who the Adversary is, so that was not a favorite part of this story for me. However, I think it does build tension for the forthcoming volumes. I hope that Fables will have their ducks in the row and be prepared when the Adversary makes his move for invading the world of the Mundanes.
Writing this review makes me want to jump back into the series, but I am going to stand strong. I know it will be all the more exciting when I pick up the next volume.
This was an excellent installment to the series. It was great because we get to see Bigby and Snow and their cubs as a settled, happy family, which gave me lots of joy. Also, they go visit Bigby's estranged father, who is also the beloved grandfather of the cubs. Bigby is hesitant to do so, but Snow asked for this as her Christmas gift. Of course, this turns out to be quite an adventure. In a word, this was a fun set of stories. There was danger for the cubs, but nothing they couldn't handle, with the help of their dad. Snow White went into a mommy rage, for good reasons. I don't think the North Wind will make such a mistake again with the cubs. It was interesting to meet some of Bigby's family. Kind of reminded me of trips to visit my family. I think some other people can understand what I mean if you have some interesting family members like I do. The art was lush and gorgeous as always. I enjoy seeing the cubs and how consistent the artwork is in individualizing them from each other. As anyone knows, I am a huge fan of Bigby and Snow, so just having more of them was a gem. This part alone is worth five stars.
The Sons of Empire arc in which we go to the Fablelands and sit in on a meeting with the Adversary and his top lieutenants wasn't quite as meaningful to me, at least emotionally. It was good to see what plans they had and what havoc they intend to reap. Pinnochio is there to be a voice of reason, a person who knows the inner workings of Fabletown. I haven't decided if he's chosen a side yet. He seems conflicted in his loyalties. I am hoping that some of the actions of his beloved father wake him up to the extent of that person's megalomania. I thought the use of the Snow Queen as a trusted leader in the Adversary's army was pretty interesting. The Snow Queen is in my top five favorite fairy tales. Willingham stays true to her character. I wonder if she will encounter Gerda and Kay later in this series??? Hansel's story arc was really disturbing, to say the least. To use a phrase from Hank Hill from Top of the Hill, "That boy's not right." He gave me the big time creepy crawlies. I can't believe he lasted as long as he did in Fabletown.
Yeah, I don't love the concept of who the Adversary is, so that was not a favorite part of this story for me. However, I think it does build tension for the forthcoming volumes. I hope that Fables will have their ducks in the row and be prepared when the Adversary makes his move for invading the world of the Mundanes.
Writing this review makes me want to jump back into the series, but I am going to stand strong. I know it will be all the more exciting when I pick up the next volume.
June 13, 2018
The things I've been missing in the past few volumes have returned (in 2007, but I'm here now)!
I really loved the Christmas special and the focus on my favourite characters.
The art in issues 57 and 59 made me cringe a little bit. I'm sure Michael Allred is a skilled artist, but I don't know if his style really suits the style of the series. It would have been nice to recognize the characters, but it looks like he made them up all on his own rather than basing them off of what they've been established to look like. I kind of wish those ones had been rendered by Mark Buckingham. Look at me, complaining about something so subjective, in a book published 11 years ago. Eh.
I really loved the Christmas special and the focus on my favourite characters.
The art in issues 57 and 59 made me cringe a little bit. I'm sure Michael Allred is a skilled artist, but I don't know if his style really suits the style of the series. It would have been nice to recognize the characters, but it looks like he made them up all on his own rather than basing them off of what they've been established to look like. I kind of wish those ones had been rendered by Mark Buckingham. Look at me, complaining about something so subjective, in a book published 11 years ago. Eh.
June 1, 2018
Fables keeps up the momentum in this title about planning and murdering.
So as we can see the Adversary is building his army. Creating plans to take fabletown and the whole world. Why not, right? he already took the homelands for the most part, what's another world to him and his people? So we see a lot of planning on their side but also some planning on the side of Fabletown, including even Bigsby growing as a father and also a great assest to his people. This is mostly a set up volume, but a damn good one at that.
Good: The art is still very solid and different than anything else. The build up is interesting from both sides. They keep trying to one up each other and we all know some shit is going to go down soon. Watching Bigsby and Snow White together, taking care of their kids, and meeting Bigsby father in his homeland was super fun.
Bad: Some of the little side stories are more distracting than interesting and they kind of hurt the pacing at points.
Overall, loving the feel of this all out war coming. I dunno who's going to die, but some shit is going to go down. A 4 out of 5.
So as we can see the Adversary is building his army. Creating plans to take fabletown and the whole world. Why not, right? he already took the homelands for the most part, what's another world to him and his people? So we see a lot of planning on their side but also some planning on the side of Fabletown, including even Bigsby growing as a father and also a great assest to his people. This is mostly a set up volume, but a damn good one at that.
Good: The art is still very solid and different than anything else. The build up is interesting from both sides. They keep trying to one up each other and we all know some shit is going to go down soon. Watching Bigsby and Snow White together, taking care of their kids, and meeting Bigsby father in his homeland was super fun.
Bad: Some of the little side stories are more distracting than interesting and they kind of hurt the pacing at points.
Overall, loving the feel of this all out war coming. I dunno who's going to die, but some shit is going to go down. A 4 out of 5.
August 17, 2018
Colin gets a cameo. A creepy cameo.
I miss Colin.
*Sigh!*
I miss Colin.
*Sigh!*
February 24, 2016
This originally appeared at http://www.comicpow.com/2016/02/17/4040/ -> accompanying images available there
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This volume is all over the place. There is a Christmas interlude, we learn of Rapunzel’s plight, and a series of reader questions answered as 1-2 page comics. But the bulk of the volume is about the eye of the storm in the Fabletown and Adversary relations. Each has wreaked devastations upon the other and now Fabletown must see if their Israel Gambit will succeed.
The volume is also about how warfare is also a battle about information. As far as Fabletown knows, Gepetto is OK with peace as he’s sent a diplomatic envoy. The reader, on the other hand, has seen Gepetto’s war council and that he prepares for total war. While Pinocchio is correct that the Fables and the Mundys would be swift with their retribution, the first punch will have already been thrown and the Mundy world would be worse off for it.
Gepetto’s plans for total war are in stark contrast with the way wars have been fought since World War II. For the most part, countries attempt to inflict minimal damage on non-combatants and on infrastructure. This is partly due to most countries now being democratic and having a population weary of total destruction on other humans. Perhaps it is meant to show just how far gone Gepetto is from his origins of assassination for the good of the realm that he is now planning for a complete destruction of a world he knows little about. Yet, while it might make him the bad guy, it truly is the only way for him to succeed against the Mundys. It is all or nothing, especially when it comes to technology vs magic.
Hansel’s story certainly runs parallel to Gepetto’s origins as The Adversary. His cause begins with righteousness – he wants to rid the world of witches like the one who tried to eat he and his sister. However, his inability to forgive (as is required as part of the Fabletown compact) leads to an exile in which he falsely accuses others of being witches. Yes, he is feeding his desire to rid the world of evil witches, but the witches he’s killing are neither real nor evil. Yet, he is so committed to his cause that he kills his own sister when she mentions dabbling in witchcraft.
Well, it’s a short article this time around, perhaps the next volume will delve into more numerous or deeper themes.
I love discussion, feel free to comment wherever you see this post.
---
This volume is all over the place. There is a Christmas interlude, we learn of Rapunzel’s plight, and a series of reader questions answered as 1-2 page comics. But the bulk of the volume is about the eye of the storm in the Fabletown and Adversary relations. Each has wreaked devastations upon the other and now Fabletown must see if their Israel Gambit will succeed.
The volume is also about how warfare is also a battle about information. As far as Fabletown knows, Gepetto is OK with peace as he’s sent a diplomatic envoy. The reader, on the other hand, has seen Gepetto’s war council and that he prepares for total war. While Pinocchio is correct that the Fables and the Mundys would be swift with their retribution, the first punch will have already been thrown and the Mundy world would be worse off for it.
Gepetto’s plans for total war are in stark contrast with the way wars have been fought since World War II. For the most part, countries attempt to inflict minimal damage on non-combatants and on infrastructure. This is partly due to most countries now being democratic and having a population weary of total destruction on other humans. Perhaps it is meant to show just how far gone Gepetto is from his origins of assassination for the good of the realm that he is now planning for a complete destruction of a world he knows little about. Yet, while it might make him the bad guy, it truly is the only way for him to succeed against the Mundys. It is all or nothing, especially when it comes to technology vs magic.
Hansel’s story certainly runs parallel to Gepetto’s origins as The Adversary. His cause begins with righteousness – he wants to rid the world of witches like the one who tried to eat he and his sister. However, his inability to forgive (as is required as part of the Fabletown compact) leads to an exile in which he falsely accuses others of being witches. Yes, he is feeding his desire to rid the world of evil witches, but the witches he’s killing are neither real nor evil. Yet, he is so committed to his cause that he kills his own sister when she mentions dabbling in witchcraft.
Well, it’s a short article this time around, perhaps the next volume will delve into more numerous or deeper themes.
I love discussion, feel free to comment wherever you see this post.
March 20, 2019
Glad to be back in Fables! As with many Volumes this one had a fragment of plot progression and a majority of random side stories.
January 7, 2018
I'm starting to sound like a broken record, but this was another great volume. The adversary and his minions start the planning of a huge attack on our world. We see Bigby Wolf take the children to meet his father, and his brothers as well. We also get a christmas tale and several questions are answered.
June 4, 2025
This series keeps getting better and better. Finally learned more about the “adversary” plans. Can’t wait for the inevitable showdown. I love seeing the wolf cubs growing up and getting to know more about Bigby and his relationship with his father.
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August 26, 2011
Wherein we witness the aftermath of Bigby's assault on the Adversary; are privy to the Adversary's war council; discover the fate of Hansel & Gretel; realize that Santa Claus doesn't always like the presents he delivers; learn that Flycatcher may be the most important Fable in existence (whether he likes it or not); see what kind of father Geppetto really is; understand why Bigby and his father avoid one another; run afoul of some suspiciously familiar Wild Things; witness the cubs' first kill; and are given the answers to many, many questions!
I think one of the really remarkable elements of this series is the way Willingham & co. manage to convey so much emotion, drawing us in and getting us to feel for the characters. From Rose's grief over the loss of Weyland to King Cole's lonely (and unwarranted) fear that he disappointed his people; from Pinnochio, Boy Blue & Flycatcher's warm friendship to Bigby's bitter fury at Snow's prejudices; from Boy Blue's despondence over realizing that the love of his life never knew nor loved him to Santa Claus's sorrowful burden... These moments, often isolated and seemingly inconsequential, are what truly bring the characters and the story to life. Without these moments, the series wouldn't work.
Also, honestly, I am going to destroy the internet if i read one more review that says something to the effect of: "Rather than starting with volume 1, I picked up volume XX of an ongoing series with XXXX volumes in it; the volume I randomly selected didn't make sense to me, therefore it must be a bad book in a bad series!" I mean, do these people also pick up random regular novels, leaf through to a random page in the middle or towards the end, start reading there, and then condemn the books for not making sense? Do they enter the cinema 45 minutes late and then complain the whole time about how nonsensical the film was? DO NONE OF THEM POSSESS A BASIC UNDERSTANDING OF HOW NARRATIVES WORK?!?
I think one of the really remarkable elements of this series is the way Willingham & co. manage to convey so much emotion, drawing us in and getting us to feel for the characters. From Rose's grief over the loss of Weyland to King Cole's lonely (and unwarranted) fear that he disappointed his people; from Pinnochio, Boy Blue & Flycatcher's warm friendship to Bigby's bitter fury at Snow's prejudices; from Boy Blue's despondence over realizing that the love of his life never knew nor loved him to Santa Claus's sorrowful burden... These moments, often isolated and seemingly inconsequential, are what truly bring the characters and the story to life. Without these moments, the series wouldn't work.
Also, honestly, I am going to destroy the internet if i read one more review that says something to the effect of: "Rather than starting with volume 1, I picked up volume XX of an ongoing series with XXXX volumes in it; the volume I randomly selected didn't make sense to me, therefore it must be a bad book in a bad series!" I mean, do these people also pick up random regular novels, leaf through to a random page in the middle or towards the end, start reading there, and then condemn the books for not making sense? Do they enter the cinema 45 minutes late and then complain the whole time about how nonsensical the film was? DO NONE OF THEM POSSESS A BASIC UNDERSTANDING OF HOW NARRATIVES WORK?!?
April 24, 2016
Reading this ninth volume of Bill Willingham's Fables directly following the slightly disappointing first volume of his Jack of Fables: The (Nearly) Great Escape was like being served a gourmet meal after an good but not fully satisfying dinner. It fully removed any doubts I might have had concerning Willingham's current writing abilities and strengthened my feeling of what was indeed the points which did not really work for me in Jack of Fables.
The volume clearly centres around the four part story arc "Sons of Empire" (# 52–55), which is all about the aftermath of events in the previous volume, including the Empire's plans for retalliation and Hansel (now there's an interesting backstory I can tell you) being sent to Fabletown as an ambassador of Empire. There are also four short character pieces from these four issues by various artists: "Hair" (about Rapunzel), "Porky Pine Pie", "A Thorn in Their Side?" (about mundy Kevin Thorne who suspicious of Fabletown) and "The Road to Paradise" (about the three blind mice).
Also included is the fantastic Christmas story about Santa entitled "Jiminy Christmas" (# 56), the two issue story "Father and Son" (# 57–58), which is all about Bigby Wolf and his relation to Mr North (as well as very much about the cubs) and is beautifully illustrated by Michael Allred, and the story "Burning Questions" (# 59) which is not really "one" story at all, but a set of brief vignettes with answers to reader questions regarding plot and character elements. As such, this closing issue is absolutely a very weak point, neither badly executed nor really very well done by any means. Still, the weak closure aside, this volume otherwise lives up to the escalating sense of quality and goodness I have come to more or less expect from Willingham et al when it comes to Fables. Now bring on volume 10.
The volume clearly centres around the four part story arc "Sons of Empire" (# 52–55), which is all about the aftermath of events in the previous volume, including the Empire's plans for retalliation and Hansel (now there's an interesting backstory I can tell you) being sent to Fabletown as an ambassador of Empire. There are also four short character pieces from these four issues by various artists: "Hair" (about Rapunzel), "Porky Pine Pie", "A Thorn in Their Side?" (about mundy Kevin Thorne who suspicious of Fabletown) and "The Road to Paradise" (about the three blind mice).
Also included is the fantastic Christmas story about Santa entitled "Jiminy Christmas" (# 56), the two issue story "Father and Son" (# 57–58), which is all about Bigby Wolf and his relation to Mr North (as well as very much about the cubs) and is beautifully illustrated by Michael Allred, and the story "Burning Questions" (# 59) which is not really "one" story at all, but a set of brief vignettes with answers to reader questions regarding plot and character elements. As such, this closing issue is absolutely a very weak point, neither badly executed nor really very well done by any means. Still, the weak closure aside, this volume otherwise lives up to the escalating sense of quality and goodness I have come to more or less expect from Willingham et al when it comes to Fables. Now bring on volume 10.
October 7, 2011
Just as I was considering giving up on the Fables series, Volume 9: Sons of Empire delivered a more entertaining, though still fractured, narrative. The Adversary and his empire hold a conference discussing their plans for Fabletown; Hansel is made the Adversary's special envoy in Fabletown; there are a few short Christmas stories; Snow & Bigby visit Bigby's father the North Wind; and throughout the volume are a number of short character pieces, including some that were inspired by reader questions.
These shorter pieces were probably my favourites, especially any involving Boy Blue, and give a bit of insight into what Fabletown and its inhabitants are like when not directly involved in the plot against their enemy. There are also a number of different artist's work featured within this volume, some I really liked such as Michael Allred's illustration of the Bigby & Snow vacation, others giving a different interpretation of the familiar characters.
Not quite a strong enough volume to garner four stars, as the narrative is still all over the place, but a vast improvement on the last couple of volumes.
These shorter pieces were probably my favourites, especially any involving Boy Blue, and give a bit of insight into what Fabletown and its inhabitants are like when not directly involved in the plot against their enemy. There are also a number of different artist's work featured within this volume, some I really liked such as Michael Allred's illustration of the Bigby & Snow vacation, others giving a different interpretation of the familiar characters.
Not quite a strong enough volume to garner four stars, as the narrative is still all over the place, but a vast improvement on the last couple of volumes.
November 6, 2007
Graphic Novel. The Empire Strikes Back, Or At Least Holds A Meeting To Discuss Doing So. I just don't know about you, Fables. You've been been getting more and more fragmented as time goes on. I no longer feel like I'm reading a cohesive story with a bigger purpose. In fact, I think my favorite stories in this volume were all less than four pages and had little to do with the main plot. "Hair" is short and bittersweet, and "A Thorn in Their Side?" has some interesting art by Michael Allred and a promising new character, but the rest of the trade is pretty boring. "Father and Son" is almost completely terrible. Here, Allred's art is ugly and poorly drawn, the color's dark and greasy-looking, and Bigby and Snow aren't their usual surly, spunky selves. They just haven't been the same since Snow had her cubs.
Two stars. I hate to say it, but I think Fables has jumped the shark.
Two stars. I hate to say it, but I think Fables has jumped the shark.
February 3, 2019
Still ADDICTIVE!
Fables series is not bad for a light read. I enjoyed Volume #9: Sons of Empire, though not as much as its predecessors.
Don't get me wrong. I am being super-critical because it is such a good series, I have come to expect much from it, ergo the rating. The opening chapters are centered around enemy's war council and goes on to some catch up with Fabletown-in-the-meanwhile. More of Bigby's relationship with his father is revealed. There are some side-stories concerning other Fables at interludes and conclusion of the volume...and a possible romance blooming for some.
I like the way Willingham experiments with the backstories of sundry characters, twisting here, tinkering there...and thoroughly altering some.
Look forward towards finding out where the main story develops.
Fables series is not bad for a light read. I enjoyed Volume #9: Sons of Empire, though not as much as its predecessors.
Don't get me wrong. I am being super-critical because it is such a good series, I have come to expect much from it, ergo the rating. The opening chapters are centered around enemy's war council and goes on to some catch up with Fabletown-in-the-meanwhile. More of Bigby's relationship with his father is revealed. There are some side-stories concerning other Fables at interludes and conclusion of the volume...and a possible romance blooming for some.
I like the way Willingham experiments with the backstories of sundry characters, twisting here, tinkering there...and thoroughly altering some.
Look forward towards finding out where the main story develops.
February 7, 2010
This volume is pretty much filler, a lot of very short stories that mostly aren't germane to the larger story arc.
June 22, 2021
Not bad but there seemed to be a lot of filler content again.
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