A review by fantakureader
Trese Vol. 1: Murder on Balete Drive by Kajo Baldisimo, Budjette Tan

adventurous dark mysterious fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? No
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? No

4.5

**FAN-FREAKING-TASTIC**

Revisited the Trese Comics. Read the 5 volumes during my teenage years. 

I am especially fond of this Filipino comic because it has my favorite concept, colliding myths & folklore with the modern world. Ever since high school, I've been obsessed with Greek and Norse mythology so it's not shocking that I also fell in love with this. 

I will be a bit biased on my review. 

Just an introduction, this volume is in episodic format but the stories hint at a larger & connective universe through dialogue and recurring characters.

1st Story: At the Intersection of Balete and 13th Street
The 2nd favorite of the four stories. Great introduction to the main character, Alexandra Trese and the setting is immediately unique and if you're a Filipino that loves mythology, it's for you. Also has the theme of equivalent exchange or more like karma in the Philippines.

2nd Story: 
Rules of the Race
I kinda like it because the designs of the several creatures are unique but not over the top but the story is a bit bland. Not much I can say as it did not leave much of an impact compared to the others.

3rd Story:
The Tragic Case of Dr. Burgos
Romance and tragedy are my least favorite genres because I have a weak heart. Overall, a bit generic of a story but at least it revolves around new creatures.

4th Story:
Our Secret Constellation
I'm so in love with this because it revolves around a female superhero who is a very popular icon in Philippine movie and tv history. The unique flavor of this one is due to the author focusing on the superhero's younger brother (Filipino readers will now know who I am talking about) and his perspective on his sister's life as a superhero. I feel that the author gave respect to his character much more than some adaptations that have been made. 

Overall, this volume is solid and provided an excellent opening to this new world.