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The Order of the Circle
London. The winter of 1952. A mysterious and deadly Smog has enveloped the city leaving it in a panic. Crime is up, hospitals are overrun, businesses are closed and all travel is shut down. It's the perfect cover for Dorothy Schafer to carry out her revenge plan against The Circle– an agency of mages and witches sworn to protect London from crime and disease since the Middle Ages. Under The Circle's rules, Dorothy's husband, John, was unjustly found guilty of murder and the punishment was a Demon was summoned and dragged him straight to Hell. To get vengeance for her husband, Dorothy undertakes a quest to craft a blade for battle against The Circle... and Hell itself.
- GenresGraphic NovelsFantasy
112 pages, Paperback
Published February 18, 2025
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61 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews
January 20, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley and Dead Sky Publishing for providing me with an advance review copy. No magic spells or curses influenced my opinion, I swear!
The Order of the Circle throws readers straight into a post-WW2 London that has been secretly ruled by witches and mages (known as The Circle) since the Middle Ages. Our protagonist is driven by revenge, seeking justice after her husband - who uncovered evidence of The Circle’s corruption - was killed and drawn into Hell.
The comic starts in medias res, which, while not an unusual storytelling choice, might not be everyone’s cup of tea (personally, I prefer a more gradual introduction). The narrative does take time to circle back and provide context, but the pacing may leave some readers wishing for a clearer entry point into this richly imagined world.
And what a world it is - grim, dark, and shrouded in an ominous fog that not only engulfs the streets but also fills hospitals with the sick and dying. The atmosphere is thick with dread, perfectly complementing the mystery and intrigue at the heart of the story. However, while the setting and The Circle itself hint at a deep, fascinating history, the comic only offers occasional glimpses into this grand lore. A bit more worldbuilding would have elevated the story to greater heights.
The sudden ending, paired with a sudden decision by the protagonist, strongly suggests a sequel is on the horizon. However, there's no official confirmation of this in the comic or its promotional materials, so readers should be aware that this is a semi-conclusive story.
Visually, The Order of the Circle is stunning. The artwork echoes the modern styles seen in Italian and French comics, which makes sense given that the colorist and letterer hail from Europe. This artistic choice adds a unique flair to the storytelling, making it a joy to look at even when the story turns bleak.
Ultimately, this comic feels like an intriguing first episode in a much larger narrative, teasing a world brimming with untold stories and secrets. Whether or not we get to explore them further remains to be seen.
The Order of the Circle throws readers straight into a post-WW2 London that has been secretly ruled by witches and mages (known as The Circle) since the Middle Ages. Our protagonist is driven by revenge, seeking justice after her husband - who uncovered evidence of The Circle’s corruption - was killed and drawn into Hell.
The comic starts in medias res, which, while not an unusual storytelling choice, might not be everyone’s cup of tea (personally, I prefer a more gradual introduction). The narrative does take time to circle back and provide context, but the pacing may leave some readers wishing for a clearer entry point into this richly imagined world.
And what a world it is - grim, dark, and shrouded in an ominous fog that not only engulfs the streets but also fills hospitals with the sick and dying. The atmosphere is thick with dread, perfectly complementing the mystery and intrigue at the heart of the story. However, while the setting and The Circle itself hint at a deep, fascinating history, the comic only offers occasional glimpses into this grand lore. A bit more worldbuilding would have elevated the story to greater heights.
The sudden ending, paired with a sudden decision by the protagonist, strongly suggests a sequel is on the horizon. However, there's no official confirmation of this in the comic or its promotional materials, so readers should be aware that this is a semi-conclusive story.
Visually, The Order of the Circle is stunning. The artwork echoes the modern styles seen in Italian and French comics, which makes sense given that the colorist and letterer hail from Europe. This artistic choice adds a unique flair to the storytelling, making it a joy to look at even when the story turns bleak.
Ultimately, this comic feels like an intriguing first episode in a much larger narrative, teasing a world brimming with untold stories and secrets. Whether or not we get to explore them further remains to be seen.
January 2, 2025
First off, many thanks to NetGalley for letting me read this graphic novel as an ARC! I greatly appreciate it!
What better way to get a leg up on my yearly reading goal than with a graphic novel? They're so quick! And this one was a really great choice, because it was excellent! It was exciting and gruesome and thoroughly intriguing, and I'm so hoping with that ending that we'll eventually get a sequel! The art style was gorgeous, too, the romance was tragic, and I really thought the use of animals in magic was fascinating!
Half a star taken off for bad grammar, though. Where are the commas? It was super distracting.
4.5 stars out of five for The Order of the Circle!
What better way to get a leg up on my yearly reading goal than with a graphic novel? They're so quick! And this one was a really great choice, because it was excellent! It was exciting and gruesome and thoroughly intriguing, and I'm so hoping with that ending that we'll eventually get a sequel! The art style was gorgeous, too, the romance was tragic, and I really thought the use of animals in magic was fascinating!
Half a star taken off for bad grammar, though. Where are the commas? It was super distracting.
4.5 stars out of five for The Order of the Circle!
July 1, 2025
"There is no truer justice than that of the purest revenge"
The order of the circle follows Dorothy, a widow who is looking to enact revenge on the order of the circle and the demon that executed her husband after he threatened to expose the extent of their corruption.
I enjoyed the artwork of this graphic novel and I think it fits the tone and the atmosphere of the world well. It was a compelling start to a story and one that I want to see more of.
The world of this comic is rather bleak. It is set in an alternate version of the UK in the 1950's. We never really get much context or world building into the magic system of the world or who the order are. Unfortunately, it is to the stories detriment. I can only hope future volumes explore this more.
Thank you to NetGalley and Dead sky publishing for providing an ARC copy in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own
The order of the circle follows Dorothy, a widow who is looking to enact revenge on the order of the circle and the demon that executed her husband after he threatened to expose the extent of their corruption.
I enjoyed the artwork of this graphic novel and I think it fits the tone and the atmosphere of the world well. It was a compelling start to a story and one that I want to see more of.
The world of this comic is rather bleak. It is set in an alternate version of the UK in the 1950's. We never really get much context or world building into the magic system of the world or who the order are. Unfortunately, it is to the stories detriment. I can only hope future volumes explore this more.
Thank you to NetGalley and Dead sky publishing for providing an ARC copy in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own
February 12, 2025
A big thanks to #NetGalley and deadskypublishing.com for giving me the opportunity to read this e-ARC of #TheOrderoftheCircle!
This was a pleasant read, although the story was a bit grotesque. You are drawn into Dorothy's despair at having lost her husband in such a terrible way and completely understand why she wants revenge. The magical elements are few, but when they do appear, they are an important part of the story. The illustrations in dark, saturated tones also contribute to the feeling of mystery.
Found myself really liking this book and hoping for a sequel ...
This was a pleasant read, although the story was a bit grotesque. You are drawn into Dorothy's despair at having lost her husband in such a terrible way and completely understand why she wants revenge. The magical elements are few, but when they do appear, they are an important part of the story. The illustrations in dark, saturated tones also contribute to the feeling of mystery.
Found myself really liking this book and hoping for a sequel ...
December 23, 2024
Book #552
4 ⭐️
Thank you netgalley for this ARC for this graphic novel the cover really caught my eye and i really enjoyed the artwork and story it was a very cat and mouse novel and also took place back in the day i really enjoyed alot of the characters especially the main character. It follows a smog taking over a town and stuff and showing the repercussions of it and how it was affecting the people and at times the artwork had some dark moments but i loved that from start to finish it all came together at the end and we see corruption and power and magic and witches and lots of other elements! Good graphic novel!
4 ⭐️
Thank you netgalley for this ARC for this graphic novel the cover really caught my eye and i really enjoyed the artwork and story it was a very cat and mouse novel and also took place back in the day i really enjoyed alot of the characters especially the main character. It follows a smog taking over a town and stuff and showing the repercussions of it and how it was affecting the people and at times the artwork had some dark moments but i loved that from start to finish it all came together at the end and we see corruption and power and magic and witches and lots of other elements! Good graphic novel!
February 5, 2025
Netgalley graciously provided me with an advanced copy of this graphic novel.
This is an interesting take on alternative history which incorporates elements of magic and demonology in a London that is both set in the 1950s but still somehow also very Victorian.
The art is beautiful and the story is action-filled. Definitely looking forward to volume 2.
This is an interesting take on alternative history which incorporates elements of magic and demonology in a London that is both set in the 1950s but still somehow also very Victorian.
The art is beautiful and the story is action-filled. Definitely looking forward to volume 2.
February 20, 2025
“The Order of the Circle” is a graphic novel written by Levi Cory, illustrated by Eva de la Cruz and Elisabeth Mkheidze.
It’s about magic and power, anger and revenge, and also love, specifically lost love, for which our main character, Dorothy Schafer, is prepared to do impossible and terrible things.
When we first see Dorothy, her mouth is sealed shut by a magic spell casted by the Circle, a group of witches which has been protecting London since the Middle Ages, because she accused them of falsely charging her husband John with murder for which he was dragged to hell by a demon they summoned. So she decided to avenge her husband and their lost future, by crafting a special blade, said to be able to kill a demon.
But the road of revenge is hard and the price gets higher with every task she completes to craft the blade, but as she pointed out, she “had nothing left in the world”, nothing to lose.
As the story unfolds, it turns out that the Circle are not the benevolent protectors they portrayed themselves to be, and also that John was not as innocent either.
What drew me to this graphic novel was, firstly, the cover, so peculiar and kinda creepy but also beautiful, then I read the synopsis, and I was all in.
The style is very realistic, makes it feel like you’re watching a movie; there is a bit of gore which may not be everyone’s cup of tea but for me it was very well executed.
The story begins in medias res, then information is given to fill the gaps and get the whole picture.
I think this is an engaging first act as quite a few things happen and a few characters get introduced but the focus is on Dorothy, her pain and determination but also her moments of doubt, as even for someone as determined as her, it’s not easy to do things you never thought you would or could do.
I can’t wait for the next volume because if the last few pages are any indication, it’s gonna be a wild ride.
I highly recommend to people who like supernatural stories, horror elements and a good revenge plot.
Thanks to NetGalley and Dead Sky Publishing to allow me to read this graphic novel in exchange of an honest review.
It’s about magic and power, anger and revenge, and also love, specifically lost love, for which our main character, Dorothy Schafer, is prepared to do impossible and terrible things.
When we first see Dorothy, her mouth is sealed shut by a magic spell casted by the Circle, a group of witches which has been protecting London since the Middle Ages, because she accused them of falsely charging her husband John with murder for which he was dragged to hell by a demon they summoned. So she decided to avenge her husband and their lost future, by crafting a special blade, said to be able to kill a demon.
But the road of revenge is hard and the price gets higher with every task she completes to craft the blade, but as she pointed out, she “had nothing left in the world”, nothing to lose.
As the story unfolds, it turns out that the Circle are not the benevolent protectors they portrayed themselves to be, and also that John was not as innocent either.
What drew me to this graphic novel was, firstly, the cover, so peculiar and kinda creepy but also beautiful, then I read the synopsis, and I was all in.
The style is very realistic, makes it feel like you’re watching a movie; there is a bit of gore which may not be everyone’s cup of tea but for me it was very well executed.
The story begins in medias res, then information is given to fill the gaps and get the whole picture.
I think this is an engaging first act as quite a few things happen and a few characters get introduced but the focus is on Dorothy, her pain and determination but also her moments of doubt, as even for someone as determined as her, it’s not easy to do things you never thought you would or could do.
I can’t wait for the next volume because if the last few pages are any indication, it’s gonna be a wild ride.
I highly recommend to people who like supernatural stories, horror elements and a good revenge plot.
Thanks to NetGalley and Dead Sky Publishing to allow me to read this graphic novel in exchange of an honest review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 24, 2025
How far would you go to avenge the ones you love?
I recieved a copy of The Order of the Circle from NetGalley and Dead Sky Publishing in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own.
Unfortunately, I have to rate this book lower than I normally would because my digital ARC copy was missing full spread images - about 6 pages total - at key moments of the narrative which made it slightly hard to follow but mostly just a bit of a let down.
Story-wise, I think that the concept is okay. Gritty for gritty sake, without much real development of our FMC as a person outside of "I love my dead husband so much." Don't get me wrong, I think there's a lot of room for FMCs who go full anger/revenge - I'm a sucker for good for her stories. But this? It left me wanting.
I don't see what help placing the story in 1950s London did for it, considering how little it actually played into the narrative. Alternate timelines are interesting to play with but I don't feel like this added enough to the story. This could have been any fictional place with fully made up people and locations and it wouldn't have changed a thing about the story at all.
On a less harsh note, the art was well done. I might not be seeking out this artist as a favorite but she did a good job with her work.
I recieved a copy of The Order of the Circle from NetGalley and Dead Sky Publishing in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own.
Unfortunately, I have to rate this book lower than I normally would because my digital ARC copy was missing full spread images - about 6 pages total - at key moments of the narrative which made it slightly hard to follow but mostly just a bit of a let down.
Story-wise, I think that the concept is okay. Gritty for gritty sake, without much real development of our FMC as a person outside of "I love my dead husband so much." Don't get me wrong, I think there's a lot of room for FMCs who go full anger/revenge - I'm a sucker for good for her stories. But this? It left me wanting.
I don't see what help placing the story in 1950s London did for it, considering how little it actually played into the narrative. Alternate timelines are interesting to play with but I don't feel like this added enough to the story. This could have been any fictional place with fully made up people and locations and it wouldn't have changed a thing about the story at all.
On a less harsh note, the art was well done. I might not be seeking out this artist as a favorite but she did a good job with her work.
December 28, 2024
4.5 stars - A prologue to a rather bleak world
Many thanks to Netgalley for the e-ARC.
Alternate London has been home to a magical society called the Circle for several centuries. They influence politics, leave the handprint on history and generally have a finger in every pie. Oh, and they like to frame people for murder. Dorothy is seeking revenge for her husband who was dragged to hell after one such false accusation. But does he really deserve her efforts?
As stated above, the world of this comic is rather bleak. We don't find out much in this volume about , but it certainly suggests that the world at large is not a safe and happy place.
While the story mainly focuses on Dorothy's personal quest and beef with the Circle, she no longer has the bandwidth to care about . This task is left for the characters supporting her, as well as the reader who now anxiously awaits the next morsel regarding the fate of England .
This comic contains graphic depictions of violence, but that isn't what makes it an adult read. The absolute hopelessness, grief and despair that the main character radiates despite her determination are what make this story truly dark.
I hope to read more of this series in the future, as there are plenty of mysteries to unravel and the art style is right up my alley.
Many thanks to Netgalley for the e-ARC.
Alternate London has been home to a magical society called the Circle for several centuries. They influence politics, leave the handprint on history and generally have a finger in every pie. Oh, and they like to frame people for murder. Dorothy is seeking revenge for her husband who was dragged to hell after one such false accusation. But does he really deserve her efforts?
As stated above, the world of this comic is rather bleak. We don't find out much in this volume about , but it certainly suggests that the world at large is not a safe and happy place.
While the story mainly focuses on Dorothy's personal quest and beef with the Circle, she no longer has the bandwidth to care about . This task is left for the characters supporting her, as well as the reader who now anxiously awaits the next morsel regarding the fate of England .
This comic contains graphic depictions of violence, but that isn't what makes it an adult read. The absolute hopelessness, grief and despair that the main character radiates despite her determination are what make this story truly dark.
I hope to read more of this series in the future, as there are plenty of mysteries to unravel and the art style is right up my alley.
December 18, 2024
3.5 stars
The Order of the Circle killed Dorothy's husband John when he threatened to expose the extent of their corruption. Dorothy is now looking for revenge on the Circle and the demon that dragged John to Hell.
"There is no truer justice than that of the purest revenge."
I really enjoyed my time with this graphic novel! It has a unique voice, and the art fits it perfectly. Mkheidze has a distinct art style that easily switches between pretty and gritty. She also has a keen eye for interesting, innovative compositions. Combined with De La Cruz' colouring and Mirabella's lettering The Order of the Circle is a feast for the eyes.
This is a cohesive story that feels like the beginning of something bigger. The world is intriguing and begs to be explored further. I am also eager to get to know the characters better in future installments.
"There is a certain feeling one has after their first kill. It is no different from person to person. All of us are built compassion, guilt and empathy. So, in killing someone, you manifest suffering within yourself."
The Order of the Circle is for you if you enjoy an adult story set in a rich fantasy world with layered characters.
TW include, but are not limited to: corpse mutilation, mutilation, death, forced drugging.
Thank you Levi Cory, Elisabeth Mkheidze, Eva De La Cruz, Maria Letizia Mirabella, and Dead Sky Publishing for providing this book for review consideration via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
The Order of the Circle killed Dorothy's husband John when he threatened to expose the extent of their corruption. Dorothy is now looking for revenge on the Circle and the demon that dragged John to Hell.
"There is no truer justice than that of the purest revenge."
I really enjoyed my time with this graphic novel! It has a unique voice, and the art fits it perfectly. Mkheidze has a distinct art style that easily switches between pretty and gritty. She also has a keen eye for interesting, innovative compositions. Combined with De La Cruz' colouring and Mirabella's lettering The Order of the Circle is a feast for the eyes.
This is a cohesive story that feels like the beginning of something bigger. The world is intriguing and begs to be explored further. I am also eager to get to know the characters better in future installments.
"There is a certain feeling one has after their first kill. It is no different from person to person. All of us are built compassion, guilt and empathy. So, in killing someone, you manifest suffering within yourself."
The Order of the Circle is for you if you enjoy an adult story set in a rich fantasy world with layered characters.
TW include, but are not limited to: corpse mutilation, mutilation, death, forced drugging.
Thank you Levi Cory, Elisabeth Mkheidze, Eva De La Cruz, Maria Letizia Mirabella, and Dead Sky Publishing for providing this book for review consideration via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
January 3, 2025
This story was short but pretty good! It's a fast-paced and gory tale of revenge against those who wronged her and her husband. I really appreciated that it was a reversal of the standard "Dead Wife" trope, and instead is a grieving wife avenging her dead husband. This story focuses solely on Dorothy and her plans for revenge. Unfortunately, this means there is very little world-building, which is a pity because I'm honestly fascinated with the small bits I saw of this world. Dorothy was such a realistic character. She's not suddenly a badass ala John Wick in her quest for revenge. She has setbacks, and she mentally struggles to the point of tears with the things she has to do in order to exact her plan. She feels very much like a person who was once an average woman, but now has nothing left to lose, and won't let herself stray from the path of revenge, no matter how bloody it gets. This story does get pretty gory at points, but even the story points out how disgusting it is at times. I enjoyed the art as well! The page flow was excellent, and I was always certain what was happening in a scene. The only downside is that this story is so short, that certain elements get glossed over or just ignored. I really would have loved if this story was slightly longer so certain world-building blocks could have been expanded on slightly. Also, this story ends on a cliffhanger. So is there meant to be a second volume?
Thank you to NetGalley and the publishers for an advanced copy in exchange for my honest review!
Thank you to NetGalley and the publishers for an advanced copy in exchange for my honest review!
January 26, 2025
A 3.5/5 star rating for me.
This book takes us to a smog-engulfed London in the post-WW2 era.
The city is ruled by a magical entity consisting of witches and mages, by which the book is named.
Dorothy is on her quest for revenge - she wants to uncover the corruption and evil behind the Circle, which unfoundedly (or maybe not?) blamed her husband John for murder, and sent an evil demon to drag him to hell.
It was fast-paced, and a bit confusing at the start, but it took very little time until everything fell into place.
The illustrations and colouring were beautiful.
A lot of things remain unsolved and ambiguous at the end.
Now, if it were noted anywhere that this was only Book One of a series, it would probably be given four stars.
However, since it isn't mentioned, I have to take it at a standalone value.
If that's the case, there are a lot of plot holes, and the ending isn't satisfying enough.
Because of that, I truly hope we will get a sequel.
Another thing that drove me insane is that the book was in the protected EPUB format, not PDF, so while reading it on my desktop, I couldn't zoom in, and lost half my eyesight until the end.
That is obviously not the authors' fault. I just have to mention it.
Overall, I fairly enjoyed this book and I would like to read more.
Thanks to NetGalley, the authors, and the publisher for providing me with this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
This book takes us to a smog-engulfed London in the post-WW2 era.
The city is ruled by a magical entity consisting of witches and mages, by which the book is named.
Dorothy is on her quest for revenge - she wants to uncover the corruption and evil behind the Circle, which unfoundedly (or maybe not?) blamed her husband John for murder, and sent an evil demon to drag him to hell.
It was fast-paced, and a bit confusing at the start, but it took very little time until everything fell into place.
The illustrations and colouring were beautiful.
A lot of things remain unsolved and ambiguous at the end.
Now, if it were noted anywhere that this was only Book One of a series, it would probably be given four stars.
However, since it isn't mentioned, I have to take it at a standalone value.
If that's the case, there are a lot of plot holes, and the ending isn't satisfying enough.
Because of that, I truly hope we will get a sequel.
Another thing that drove me insane is that the book was in the protected EPUB format, not PDF, so while reading it on my desktop, I couldn't zoom in, and lost half my eyesight until the end.
That is obviously not the authors' fault. I just have to mention it.
Overall, I fairly enjoyed this book and I would like to read more.
Thanks to NetGalley, the authors, and the publisher for providing me with this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
January 24, 2025
"Revenge is my destiny."
In The Order of the Circle, the bereaved Dorothy commits herself to avenging her husband, who has been banished to Hell - for crimes he did not commit - by an organisation called The Circle. She vows to bring their corruption to light and is willing to give up everything to see that happen.
The art and colouring of this graphic novel is absolutely stunning, with each panel being fully detailed. The story and world are intriguing, with an ending that screams "to be continued".
I loved that there wasn't too much exposition and that the plot moved along at a great pace. You're provided with just enough understanding of this world to get what is happening, but nothing more, so you don't get overloaded with information in these 100 pages.
Overall, this is a must-read for anyone looking for a fast-paced graphic novel with mature themes and a story that keeps you hooked from start to finish. Highly recommended!
---
Thank you to NetGalley and Dead Sky Publishing for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
February 16, 2025
London. The winter of 1952. A mysterious and deadly Smog has enveloped the city leaving it in a panic. Crime is up, hospitals are overrun, businesses are closed and all travel is shut down. To get vengeance for her husband, Dorothy undertakes a quest to craft a blade for battle against The Circle– an agency of mages and witches sworn to protect London from crime and disease since the Middle Ages...and Hell itself.
Some have called this graphic novel grotesque or gory and I will not argue. The difference is I do not say it as a negative. A story, even an alternative history story, that involves demons, magic,and murder should be grotesque.
Using the very real and deadly Lo don Smog of 1952 as a back drop just made the story more believable and scary.
The art also is stunning, bring such realism and detail to the novel. It gave the novel the feeling of a fully realized cinematic experience.
Looking forward to the next issue and Dorothy's trip to hell.
Highly recommended. Published 2/18/2025
Thanks to @Netgalley and Dead Sky Publishing for the opportunity to read this eArc in exchange for my honest and unbiased opinion.
Some have called this graphic novel grotesque or gory and I will not argue. The difference is I do not say it as a negative. A story, even an alternative history story, that involves demons, magic,and murder should be grotesque.
Using the very real and deadly Lo don Smog of 1952 as a back drop just made the story more believable and scary.
The art also is stunning, bring such realism and detail to the novel. It gave the novel the feeling of a fully realized cinematic experience.
Looking forward to the next issue and Dorothy's trip to hell.
Highly recommended. Published 2/18/2025
Thanks to @Netgalley and Dead Sky Publishing for the opportunity to read this eArc in exchange for my honest and unbiased opinion.
January 2, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley for providing me an ARC of this book for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
I really enjoyed this foray into an alternate-world London with sorcery and a secret society infiltrating the government. I am incredibly intrigued by this world and by these characters, and I do hope the series continues! Dorothy is a very compelling main character, and her quest to get revenge on the people who condemned her husband to Hell was an interesting one.
I will admit, despite my enjoyment, the pacing of this graphic novel felt a little too fast, with a bit too much information packed into the 106 pages. Perhaps the pacing of the story will be remedied when more installments are added.
Publication date: February 18, 2025
I really enjoyed this foray into an alternate-world London with sorcery and a secret society infiltrating the government. I am incredibly intrigued by this world and by these characters, and I do hope the series continues! Dorothy is a very compelling main character, and her quest to get revenge on the people who condemned her husband to Hell was an interesting one.
I will admit, despite my enjoyment, the pacing of this graphic novel felt a little too fast, with a bit too much information packed into the 106 pages. Perhaps the pacing of the story will be remedied when more installments are added.
Publication date: February 18, 2025
December 19, 2024
Witchcraft and demons and REVENGE!
The Order of the Circle is the dark and dangerous magic you need in your life! This story focuses on a cursed girl as she attempts to enact her revenge on those that wronged her all while attempting to do the unthinkable. Slay a demon.
The illustrations and story within these pages are so exceptional. They evoke emotions and showcase the vulnerabilities of the characters. They also depict some of the most badass moments you can think of. I was hooked on this story within moments and I know readers are going to sink their teeth into this story and will be clamoring for more!
Check out this latest story by Dead Sky Publishing!
The Order of the Circle is the dark and dangerous magic you need in your life! This story focuses on a cursed girl as she attempts to enact her revenge on those that wronged her all while attempting to do the unthinkable. Slay a demon.
The illustrations and story within these pages are so exceptional. They evoke emotions and showcase the vulnerabilities of the characters. They also depict some of the most badass moments you can think of. I was hooked on this story within moments and I know readers are going to sink their teeth into this story and will be clamoring for more!
Check out this latest story by Dead Sky Publishing!
December 28, 2024
This graphic novel immediately caught my attention with its stunning cover and 1950s-inspired art style, which perfectly matches the story’s tone.
The plot follows a determined protagonist seeking to avenge her husband’s death using her magical abilities and the help of her allies. The fast-paced story is engaging and clearly aimed at adults, with some brutal scenes that could have used a trigger warning.
Overall, it’s an easy-to-follow, suspenseful tale that slowly reveals its deeper layers. Fans of magic, mystery, and action-packed graphic novels will enjoy this thrilling read.
Thanks to NetGalley for the Arc!
The plot follows a determined protagonist seeking to avenge her husband’s death using her magical abilities and the help of her allies. The fast-paced story is engaging and clearly aimed at adults, with some brutal scenes that could have used a trigger warning.
Overall, it’s an easy-to-follow, suspenseful tale that slowly reveals its deeper layers. Fans of magic, mystery, and action-packed graphic novels will enjoy this thrilling read.
Thanks to NetGalley for the Arc!
dnf
December 31, 2024I recieved an ARC of this book via netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
Ultimately, it's not my kind of graphic novel. I thought the fantasy themes would be more than enough to keep me interested, but between those not being quite what I expected and the art style, I decided this was not for me. The text was also very small to read on my phone, which was the only option provided by netgalley to access the title. If I could've read it on my laptop, maybe my headache wouldn't have contributed to me not liking it. I see this is both the author's and the illustrator's first work, so I'd like to see what they do in the future with a bit more of a polish.
Ultimately, it's not my kind of graphic novel. I thought the fantasy themes would be more than enough to keep me interested, but between those not being quite what I expected and the art style, I decided this was not for me. The text was also very small to read on my phone, which was the only option provided by netgalley to access the title. If I could've read it on my laptop, maybe my headache wouldn't have contributed to me not liking it. I see this is both the author's and the illustrator's first work, so I'd like to see what they do in the future with a bit more of a polish.
January 10, 2025
This was great! Atmospheric, gory at times, and had a very interesting world. It ticks a lot of boxes for what I've been interested in lately (historical fiction with paranormal twist and dark, broody environments/plots), so it was a very satisfying read in that way.
The way the panels are laid out in this is extremely well done. There was a couple spreads that made me stop and remember why graphic fiction is so near and dear to my heart.
Some parts lost me a bit in terms of plot since the story is so focused on Dorothy, but I'm excited to see what happens next.
ARC courtesy of NetGalley.
The way the panels are laid out in this is extremely well done. There was a couple spreads that made me stop and remember why graphic fiction is so near and dear to my heart.
Some parts lost me a bit in terms of plot since the story is so focused on Dorothy, but I'm excited to see what happens next.
ARC courtesy of NetGalley.
January 12, 2025
In The Order of The Circle a group of magic users all but take control of post-WW2 London if not for the main character's efforts to get revenge. While the art is very intricate and fits the universe so well, be aware that there are plenty of explicitly gory scenes - this book pulls no punches in telling this story, and it's in no way a cheerful one. It's bleak, grounded, mature and at the same time full of glimmers of hope. You'll be instantly drawn in by the compelling characters, fast-paced story and intriguing magic system.
✨ Disclaimer ✨ I received a free copy of this book and this is my honest review.
✨ Disclaimer ✨ I received a free copy of this book and this is my honest review.
February 10, 2025
What a fascinating comic book! This is a 1952 London, playing off true events of history but adding in elements of magic and the paranormal.
The main character takes her fate into her own hand when her husband is taken from her and the organization that did it made her a mute for speaking out against them. This is her story of revenge.
The art is gorey and graphic at times, but it is an adult comic. Not for kids. I would rate it suitable for 18+ but I’m a lot more strict about content then most. Just know that going into it. I look forward to the next volume. Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC!
The main character takes her fate into her own hand when her husband is taken from her and the organization that did it made her a mute for speaking out against them. This is her story of revenge.
The art is gorey and graphic at times, but it is an adult comic. Not for kids. I would rate it suitable for 18+ but I’m a lot more strict about content then most. Just know that going into it. I look forward to the next volume. Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC!
December 30, 2024
Holy smokes you guys! This is a fantastic graphic novel! I am blown away by how much I enjoyed this one.
How far will you go to bring back a loved one? Are you willing to go to hell for them?
A unique plot and the art is just as amazing. It is about a woman whose husband was snatched up by a demon and sent to hell. She just wants her husband back and will go to great lengths to get him back.
Highly recommend this graphic novel, you'll be hooked and anxious for book two!
#NetGalley #TheOrderoftheCircle
How far will you go to bring back a loved one? Are you willing to go to hell for them?
A unique plot and the art is just as amazing. It is about a woman whose husband was snatched up by a demon and sent to hell. She just wants her husband back and will go to great lengths to get him back.
Highly recommend this graphic novel, you'll be hooked and anxious for book two!
#NetGalley #TheOrderoftheCircle
February 9, 2025
Ok I liked this one - the art was great, the story line was fast paced and gory. You’re dropping into the middle of a plot but that works well here. The magic is good and the characters pull you in.
It’s 3 stars because it is a story line meant to be in England. However, the speech isn’t at all believable. There is the use of Mum is head of Ma’am. Bollocks is spelt wrong in every instance. And the insults don’t ring true. This could have easily been corrected if literally one person from England was consulted.
Thank you NetGalley for this ARC.
It’s 3 stars because it is a story line meant to be in England. However, the speech isn’t at all believable. There is the use of Mum is head of Ma’am. Bollocks is spelt wrong in every instance. And the insults don’t ring true. This could have easily been corrected if literally one person from England was consulted.
Thank you NetGalley for this ARC.
February 11, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley and Dead Sky Publishing for the Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) of The Order of the Circle by Levi Cory.
So this story was a tad darker than I originally anticipated.
The story focuses on pain, revenge and grief as some of the larger underlying themes. As well as that of demons, magical societies, found friends and love. Personally, I would have enjoyed the second half to 1/3 of the book to be a bit longer because I enjoyed it the most.
Overall, the art style is definitely enjoyable!
So this story was a tad darker than I originally anticipated.
The story focuses on pain, revenge and grief as some of the larger underlying themes. As well as that of demons, magical societies, found friends and love. Personally, I would have enjoyed the second half to 1/3 of the book to be a bit longer because I enjoyed it the most.
Overall, the art style is definitely enjoyable!
April 26, 2025
I quite liked this. It's set in London 1952 but a London where magic is real and a society of mages has helped since the middle ages. There's one witch that is looking for revenge though after the society framed her husband for murder and banished him to hell while taking away her voice so she could no longer practice magic. She's looking for a weapon that can kill the demon who dragged her husband to hell. It's cool stuff. The art was really good too, especially since this artist was new to me.
January 8, 2025
2.5 Stars
This is just fine. It had an interesting premise of someone literally willing to descend into the depths of hell to avenge their slain lover but this didn't do it for me. The story jumps around a bit too much and I would have preferred to slow it down just a little bit so that we could get a little more backstory on our characters.
Content: gore, violence
*Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the advanced copy of this book.
This is just fine. It had an interesting premise of someone literally willing to descend into the depths of hell to avenge their slain lover but this didn't do it for me. The story jumps around a bit too much and I would have preferred to slow it down just a little bit so that we could get a little more backstory on our characters.
Content: gore, violence
*Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the advanced copy of this book.
January 15, 2025
A story of witch craft and revenge heavy with exposition dumps, that still managed to feel pretty thin on both plot and world building. The main character was well written, but she was really one note. It all feels like more lead up to a series, instead of a satisfying standalone that COULD become one.
On a more positive note, the art is fantastic.
ARC provided by NetGalley & Dead Sky Publishing
On a more positive note, the art is fantastic.
ARC provided by NetGalley & Dead Sky Publishing
February 3, 2025
The Order of the Circle gave me big The Mummy or Sherlock Holmes vibes at first. I could see those two in the same art style. This is the first installment, but it felt like you were jumping into the middle of an already-formed story. Though I appreciated the quick pace of the graphic novel, it felt like I was only reading half the story. I would love to see Dorothy's husband's story and his version of the story. This is a beautiful entry into a gritty magical mystery.
February 15, 2025
quite an interesting -and a bit gory- story about a woman wanting to get revenge for her husband - Dorothy is truly a strong yet sensitive character, and her reactions make her quite relatable. I especially liked to see her interactions with John - her devotion to him knows no limits and she would do everything to get her husband back. The buildup was good tho I would say that the other characters seem a bit pale compared to Do and John - except the rat. The rat was perfect.
August 11, 2025
This story is one of revenge. Dorothy Schaefer wants revenge for the untimely death of her husband, John. He was murdered by a magical organization called The Circle who seemingly have their fingers in every pie in old London town of 1952. Dorothy has been hobbled magically into being a mute after defaming The Circle about the wrongful death of John Schaefer. She finds an organization that opposes The Circle, one called Silver Claw, to assist her in her plan for vengeance. A demon blade is needed to exact the revenge against the demon, Astaroth, who drug her husband to hell, at the behest of The Circle. A lot of information was shoved into a matter of pages in this first volume but I am eager to see what is on the horizon for Dorothy.
Merged review:
This story is one of revenge. Dorothy Schaefer wants revenge for the untimely death of her husband, John. He was murdered by a magical organization called The Circle who seemingly have their fingers in every pie in old London town of 1952. Dorothy has been hobbled magically into being a mute after defaming The Circle about the wrongful death of John Schaefer. She finds an organization that opposes The Circle, one called Silver Claw, to assist her in her plan for vengeance. A demon blade is needed to exact the revenge against the demon, Astaroth, who drug her husband to hell, at the behest of The Circle. A lot of information was shoved into a matter of pages in this first volume but I am eager to see what is on the horizon for Dorothy.
##ThxNetGalley #LeviCory #TheOrderoftheCircle
Merged review:
This story is one of revenge. Dorothy Schaefer wants revenge for the untimely death of her husband, John. He was murdered by a magical organization called The Circle who seemingly have their fingers in every pie in old London town of 1952. Dorothy has been hobbled magically into being a mute after defaming The Circle about the wrongful death of John Schaefer. She finds an organization that opposes The Circle, one called Silver Claw, to assist her in her plan for vengeance. A demon blade is needed to exact the revenge against the demon, Astaroth, who drug her husband to hell, at the behest of The Circle. A lot of information was shoved into a matter of pages in this first volume but I am eager to see what is on the horizon for Dorothy.
##ThxNetGalley #LeviCory #TheOrderoftheCircle
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