Reviews

Sunburn by Andi Watson

chloebloom's review

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2.0

This is a beautifully illustrated graphic novel that really evokes summery feelings, however the story itself has very little substance. The relationships at the heart of this story are quite unsettling and there is no real resolution to this.
Thank you to the author, publisher and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this advanced copy

ebright1121's review

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#NetGalleyARC This was a fun summer read with BEAUTIFUL illustrations. The color palette was perfect for the setting, Greece, and the illustrations were beautifully done. I wasn't sure what to expect from this story, it left me feeling a little uncomfortable at times and sad. An interesting summer read.

jackelz's review

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“Luck can change but fate is in the stars.”

Rachel is spending her summer with family friends, The Warners, in Greece. The Warners parade her around at parties and let her drink, and introduce her to a cute fella named Benjamin. So it sounds like the making of a really fun and care-free summer vacation. 

I was instantly curious what the motives were for the Warners bringing a 16-year-old they barely knew into their home. I was definitely getting weird vibes from Diane, who was trying really hard to be like a cool aunt. I enjoyed the build up to the big reveal, even though I had my suspicions. 

The art was spectacular; the color palette was perfect. The blues really highlighted the beauty of Greece. 

joisaddler's review

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mysterious fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? No
  • Loveable characters? No
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? No

2.0

mohawkm's review

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4.0

This had a sense of danger throughout that is intentional to the story, even if it isn't a complex one. Still, it is an attractive graphic novel for a sense of a sun drenched summer in the Grecian islands.

helene0707's review

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5.0

Before I start discussing the story, I wanted to highlight just how much I love the art style. The colour palette is gorgeous and perfectly fits the island vibes. The donkeys, the scooters, the goats--I was in Crete in May and this comic brought me straight back. Plus, the artist pays a lot of attention to small details (I noticed that Gucci bag straight away!).

Now, to the story. When I saw the reviews here, I was quite shocked. I think a lot of readers read this comic with the wrong expectations, and I also firmly believe that the intended audience is wrong. It's meant for a Teen+ audience, but I'd say it's more suited for adults. A lot of the subtle dialogue will probably fly over your head if you don't pay attention. Why would a girl get invited to a luxury holiday with friends of the family? There are only a couple of explanations.

Contrary to the other reviewers here, I really enjoyed reading this comic. I opened it with the idea of reading it over a few days, but couldn't put it down once I'd started. There was something special about this story. Maybe it was the undoubted "Britishness" or the Greek charm, or maybe the fact that it's set in the 80s or 90s. But I enjoyed every second of it.

Recommended for more mature audiences and lovers of Greece.

I received a copy via NetGalley. All my opinions are my own.

emilychau's review against another edition

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emotional fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? It's complicated
  • Loveable characters? No
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.25

the_bibliophiles's review

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adventurous emotional hopeful mysterious reflective fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? It's complicated
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

4.0

maysbonsai's review

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2.0

Beautiful art and colour palette, with a really weird plot line. I really enjoyed how this said a lot without saying anything - I left this wanting to think and reflect, which is something I rarely find with a graphic novel. My only note was that the protagonist was very young, and the sexual indications were uncomfortable, but I think that this was part of the point?

ladysreads's review

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3.0

I loved this graphic novel purely for the art/illustrations. I enjoyed the Mediterranean setting however was very confused about the story line and where the plot was going.