“Writer Tom Taylor has roped us into the story from the beginning, and his illumination of the forces at play in these characters’ lives is not only intriguing; it seems to touch on a universal familial truth. There is an almost scientific way to see that Blood Ties is a successful story: In it, Taylor has taken to illuminating aspects of one this fictional universe’s most mysterious characters. In the end, however, the mystery of the character has been only multiplied. It would be overly dramatic for me to say that Blood Ties is the Citizen Kane of Star Wars comics. However, I can’t deny that I found myself comparing the two works in my head as I read this final issue.” – THE SCI-FI BLOCK

“At times, this comic book had a couple of laugh out loud moments making the story stay away from the typical deadly serious Boba Fett story. But fear not, there are plenty of Boba being a badass moments if that’s what you are looking for in this comic… it tells a story that entertained me and got me interested in characters I previously had little interest in before. It doesn’t hurt to have some witty dialogue and some terrific artwork. I guess you could also say I am a sucker for endings with a twist. It’s tough to come across a good original trilogy comic book story but this one is even better than good. I definitely recommend this comic and series. 4.5 out of 5 Geek Goggles” – COMIC LIST

This is getting quite crazy.  Newsarama’s amazing praise of The Example last week (where they said “this book should be used in writing classes everywhere, and should be the primary example (no pun intended) for aspiring comic writers to reference when trying to learn how to write dramatic and compelling dialogue.”) on top of all the good reviews for Star Wars: Blood Ties #1, including CBR’S 4.5 star review, has been topped.

The Example has received even more praise from various sources and Star Wars: Blood Ties #2 has picked up that extra half-a-star in a 5 star review at CBR, as well as some nice words from IGN and others.

THE EXAMPLE

“Brief Cases, late trains, and small talk add up to what is probably the best comic of the year!“ “Taylor and Wilson collaborate to create one of the most tension filled comics I have ever read.” - THE OUTHOUSE.COM

“as effing good as the accolades suggest.” – BROKEN FRONTIER

STAR WARS: BLOOD TIES #2

“It’s a natural flow of story, reflecting upon how the past has fueled the present. The two tales come crashing together at the end of this issue, setting up an exciting story for the remainder of this series. 5 stars” - CBR

“Taylor seems poised to add some real depth to this enigmatic bounty hunter without sacrificing his cooler qualities. Whether in revisiting Jango’s death from Boba’s point of view or showcasing his bounty hunting methods, Taylor offers a lot for Fett fans to enjoy in this series.” - IGN

“This comic is awesome. Go out and buy it.” - THE SCI-FI BLOC

This book, and the play it’s based on, has been quite the critical success, and Gestalt Publishing pointed out this review it received over at Newsarama. It’s one of the best reviews The Example has ever received and, with that talk of Mamet and Beckett, completely head expanding.

Colin Wilson asked me how much we paid the guy…

The Example
Written by Tom Taylor
Art by Colin Wilson
Published by Gestalt Publishing
Review by Jeff Marsick

“I was considering making this review a single word, but didn’t figure an interjection like ‘wow’ would do it enough service.  Most people would probably not even give this book a second glance, given that it’s black and white, weighs all of eleven pages, and is produced by some company no one’s ever heard of, which is a shame.  The thing of it is, this book should be used in writing classes everywhere, and should be the primary example (no pun intended) for aspiring comic writers to reference when trying to learn how to write dramatic and compelling dialogue.

Two people are on a train platform:  the woman, Sam, has been a resident for a half hour, and Chris, a business type, has logged three-quarters of one.  Their train due in is ten, now fifteen, now twenty-five minutes late.  Small talk typical of disgruntled passengers ensues, and Sam postulates that it’s a sort of game-of-chicken that the trains play where as soon as one would-be rider leaves in disgust, the train will arrive.  It’s a boredom alleviator, railway style.  And sure enough, someone from the platform leaves.  But…

He left his briefcase behind.  Right there.  In the center of the platform, clear as day and in the great wide open.

What follows is not only arguably (and I will if pressed) some of the best dialogue written in comics, but some of the best composition of the sequential medium.  Each page is a block of nine panels, where said briefcase is the central character, sitting in Paul Lynde’s favorite spot, with the dialogue as a framing device.  In this post-9/11 era, anyone who’s done time in our country’s subterranean transport system can understand and appreciate what terror a lone briefcase can instill.  And with the turn of each page, the center square gets subtly bigger, indicative of the stakes-raising with each passing minute.

Now, you may think, “You’re telling me that eleven pages of yakking about a briefcase is great?  Really?  That’s Bendis on any given day.”  Except it’s not.  This isn’t banal back and forth for the sake of filling space, nor is the reader fed fiberless trivia about each character.  We learn what we need from what they say and are quickly drawn to turn the page as Tom Taylor expertly winds up the tension to a climax that will have you wincing as you turn to the final page.

It’s a book that tastes like Mamet, Beckett, or maybe even Frayn.  And it’s funny that I mention these Broadway masters because that’s what I thought as I read this:  “What a fantastic play this would be.”  Turns out I was on to something, since The Example is the comic adaptation of Mr. Taylor’s ten-minute play of the same name, that has won awards and been performed across the globe from Edinburgh to Sydney (I learned this on Mr Taylor’s credit page after reading it).

Gestalt is an Australian company, and if the rest of their line is as compelling as this tiny one-shot, I might become their biggest fan. The Example is fantastic storytelling in a compact form and should be in everyone’s pull file.”

Big thanks to the reviewer.  We will now return your puppy to you, unharmed.

Starting with a four-and-a-half star review and some damn fine words from COMIC BOOK RESOURCES.

“This issue is the near-perfect beginning of the story of an assassin and his son.”  “Taylor’s story summarizes every complexity in literary father-son relationships from Abraham and Isaac to Mufasa and Simba.” “Chris Scalf has poured a lot of work onto these pages, in storytelling, layout, and detail. Jango and young Boba look astonishingly like Temuera Morrison and Daniel Logan, respectively. While there has been much ballyhoo made of photo-tracing in comics, Scalf’s artwork crosses over from photo-tracing to portraiture”  “The story has “Star Wars” moments, such as when the Atzerri Traffic Control asks for proof of identification from Jango Fett. In accordance with the request, Jango gives it to them. There are holographic messages, chase scenes, and action across multiple planets, just as with all of the films. This issue, however, ends with a surprise on the final page that sets the story on its ear.”

“This is, hands down, the best of the “Star Wars” comics from Dark Horse that I have read.” - CBR

A ‘five out of five’ from, UK website, STAR WARS BOOKS.

“It must seem as if every other Star Wars comic story released recently has been written by Tom Taylor and judging by his previous stories (Invasion: Refugees, Luke Skywalker and the Treasure of the Dragonsnakes, Invasion: Rescues, The Will of Darth Vader) this is no bad thing. Just as his previous releases enthralled us with Taylor’s storytelling abilities, this new story promises to do the same.”  “Chris Scalf’s art is, quite frankly, unbelievably awe inspiring and if you have been put off reading a Star Wars comic story because of black pen lines traced around characters’ features or overuse of monotonic colours, then fear not because Scalf’s capture of near photo-realism in his paintwork doesn’t require pen lines while his colour palette is a blend of natural tones and shades. However beautiful the artwork is, the real test of any artist is their ability to capture facial expressions and in this Scalf succeeds wonderfully. Blood Ties #1 is a worthy addition to any fan’s Star Wars comics library and is particularly recommended to fans who have yet to experience Star Wars stories in comic form. “ - SWBOOKS.CO.UK

COMIC BOOK JESUS and COMIC ATTACK also have nice things to say.

A huge thank you to everyone who picked up this book.  Thanks also for all the kind emails, messages and forum postings.

Chris Scalf and I couldn’t be happier… well, until issue #2.

thing. Just as his previous releases enthralled us with Taylor’s storytelling abilities, this new story promises to do the same.

Reviews, Reviews, Reviews

“Blood Ties is off to a great start. This is one of those Expanded Universe stories that feels like it was genuinely written to tell a compelling story, not simply to expand upon or illuminate corners of the Star Wars universe. Aside from establishing a moving and believable relationship between the two main characters, Taylor has crafted a story that seems to be prepared to expand its theme beyond the two in a way that can be equally rewarding. Chris Scalf’s art is not only amazing (as it generally is) but also does just as much as the writing in the way of revealing Jango’s feelings for Boba, and in equally subtle ways. Writer Tom Taylor does a superb job of making Jango’s tough love on Boba never feel like anything other than love (though Jango would probably never admit that himself). If the chemistry between Taylor and Scalf remains this good throughout the series, this could turn out to be one of the better Fett tales of recent time.” - THE SCI-FI BLOCK

“What immediately stood out about this issue was the art. I’d never seen Chris Scalf’s work before. But it’s beautiful, and really suits the Star Wars universe. He seems to do almost everything well. The faces look like the actors from Attack of the Clones and carry emotion perfectly, the action sequences look beautiful, and the story flows well.  It’s clear that Jango and Boba love each other dearly, but the tough-love scenarios young Boba is forced to go through make for a nice, meaty story. I’d forgotten how good Star Wars comics can be when they’re done well.  And this one is certainly done well. ” - PRIMARY IGNITION.COM

“The comic sets up a great ending which will have you crying for more! While the story for the most part remains in the “past”, the mission will obviously have ramifications for Boba later in the issues to come. The Fetts get an assignment from Lord Tyranus to take out a target with sensitive information about the operations at Kamino, and must be removed from the galactic playing field. The mysterious target’s identity is revealed on the last page with a continued bar interrupting all the excitement! (I can’t spoil everything after all.) Head out and get yours or click the link below and order yours! You won’t regret it.” - EU CANTINA

Even IGN liked it.

“Various Expanded Universe stories have attempted to flesh him out and provide him with an actual backstory, and all to varying degrees of success. George Lucas’ own attempts in Episode II left me a bit cold, but Tom Taylor does a better job here of exploring the father/son dynamic between Jango and his cloned child. The first half of this issue focuses on the lessons and training Jango imparts to Boba. Taylor strikes that necessary balance between loving father and gruff, loner mercenary in Jango’s portrayal. As for Boba, Taylor makes it clear that Boba had a talent for dealing death and destruction even at an early age.” - IGN

Star Wars Adventures:  The Will of Darth Vader AND Luke Skywalker and the Treasure of the Dragonsnakes

“…offering two thought provoking, yet action-filled stories. Luke Skywalker and the Treasure of the Dragonsnakes takes place during Luke’s training on Dagobah with Master Yoda. Taylor allows himself to have fun with Yoda as Yoda in turn has fun with Luke in the name of training. (Teachers who can get this volume away from their students will completely sympathize with Yoda’s desire to gently torment his disciple.) When Yoda sends Luke on a journey to rescue treasure from a ferocious beast, Luke at first cannot understand why his monastic mentor would suddenly be making a selfish request. But, as with all of Yoda’s teachings, there is a deeper meaning. Daxiong’s art is vivid and perfect for action scenes, though he seems unable to draw any facial expressions which would allow his characters to show emotion. Luckily Taylor’s writing is strong enough to carry the story through to a full-circle finish that is not preachy or overly pat.

From there, Taylor turns his focus onto Darth Vader, crafting a story which shows off the massive power Vader commands, while also clearly pointing out the flaws in his philosophy of servitude to the Dark Side. Vader uses a captured smuggler named Luca to get to a Rebel base hidden deep within an asteroid field, but Luca is a wisecracking man who does not lightly given into authority. The brilliance in Taylor’s story is that Luca is not a stand-in for Han Solo. He is very much his own person, a theme which is central to the point Taylor aims to make. The ending of the tale is shocking, powerful, and will force readers to think about the nature of free will.” - Graphic Novel Reporter

The Authority #25 – “This is Gonna Suck”

“Don’t let the title of the issue fool you. It does everything BUT suck! But rest assured, Tom Taylor finds a clever way to present the title too. I personally thought it was hilarious how he did it.  But the creative team’s not done with us yet. As the solicits reads ‘The Carrier appears to finally be approaching its ultimate destination’. Taylor not only gives us a cool little twist at the end but also leaves us with a great cliffhanger!” - Wildstorm Addiction

Star Wars Invasion: Rescues #3

“Probably one of the best issues in terms of action and moving the story along.”

“I definitely will say I liked this issue. The action was there and the story didn’t drag out but thrust us to the next level.
Overall the issue was solid and action intense. Taylor and Wilson delivered.” - NJOE.com

Here are your Authority #24 and Star Wars: Invasion — Rescues #2  reviews.  Authority #24 also made the ‘Read Pile’ over at CBR.

Invasion

“What I liked:  Tom Taylor knows how to write a story that keeps you on the edge of your seat and Colin Wilson has made this era of Star Wars his own.  What we only got to read about in the novels is brought to life on the pages.  His characters are easily recognizable and his Yuuzhan Vong are beautifully freakish in looks.  Tom has done in excellent job in handling characters like the Solo twins and keeping them true to how they were in the novels.  Jaina really is a good pilot and Jacen, well Jacen is Jacen

What I didn’t like:  Having to wait until the next issue to find out what happens.” – ACOMICBOOKBLOG.COM

“Star Wars: Invasion/Rescues stays strong with this second issue. At times approaching a meaningful theme, other times providing more visceral pleasures, it never fails to entertain.

Even the relatively slow parts are kept alive by Colin Wilson’s brilliant penciling. The images of the New Republic soldiers in spacesuits being showered with toxic rain are simultaneously classic and modern, drawing, it seems, from the best aspects of sci-fi aesthetics. The design of the Yuuzhan Vong Tsalok is also awesome, approaching the ferociousness of sci-fi creatures like the Predator. Even the purely functional panels offer something to gaze at at least momentarily. The art alone is almost enough to recommend buying the comic. The comic ends with “Freaking Continued!” which may be presumptuous but is a sign that writer Tom Taylor is excited about his story. It shows all the way through.” – The Sci-Fi Block

The Authority – Mondregon Part 2

“The end of the issue was pretty awesome and really unexpected. It closes an arc for one of the characters who we’ve followed for a while now. This run is more than halfway done and with certain storylines wrapped up and others opened, I’m anxious to see what else we’ve got coming before year’s end. 8 out of 10 (On its way to greatness)” - Wildstorm Addiction

“The Authority #24 has a very abrupt ending as John Cumberland has one very inspirational performance.”- CBR

Authority #23 is getting some high praise on internet forums and I’ve also had a number of emails and facebook messages from people singing the praises of the issue.

A couple of good reviews have surfaced already.  And the first one, from Comic Vine, really put a smile on my face.  See an extract below.

“OMG! Ok stand back just a little, I’ve got to get this out of my system.

You didn’t experience what happened in the two minutes between the previous line and this one, but trust me, I needed it. I liked this issue. A lot. I’ve liked what’s been going on with The Authority since they’ve taken off, but this issue was great.”

“That scene with Grifter at the beginning was not only very funny, but also really worked to add an element of continuity by connecting it to the last issue in a fun way. It’s not just random stuff happening on the Carrier. The Grifter/Flint…encounter also shows that a network of relationships (not just sexual) is building and by the end Taylor has used this joke to add a strong element of community. There are natural friendships, but the lives of the people on the ship are going to be crisscrossing more and more.”

“This issue really shows that these characters have character, and I’m glad to see it. And even better is that the character development doesn’t get in the way of telling a story that draws you in and is exciting. I’m so pumped for the next issue.” – Comic Vine.

And from Comic Addiction…

“One thing I appreciate about Taylor’s writing is his insertion of humor.  There’s a great moment at the beginning between Grifter, Flint, The Engineer, and Swift.  Even though he can do good humor, Taylor is also good at giving the story scope.  The Carrier as a ship is massive in its own right.  But there are two times in this issue that we see that out here in space, The Carrier seems real small real quick.  Add that to the fact that Taylor introduces TWO threats for the heroes in this issue and you’ve got a great set-up for conflict.”

“If you like your superheroes with a dash of sci-fi, this book is the place to be right now. Rating: 8 out of 10 (On Its Way to Greatness!)“ – Comic Addiction.

Issue #23 sadly marks the end of Mike S. Miller’s short run as the artist.  Mike captured these guys fantastically and, as well as showing some incredible action and scope, he really helped inject the humour that I was after at this stage of my run.

Issue #24 sees the return of regular series artist, Al Barrionuevo.  I’m a lucky guy to get to work with two incredible artists on this book.  An exclusive preview page of Al’s pencils from The Authority #24  can be seen right here at the official Wildstorm Blog.

The first review is up at Comic Addiction

“As much as I hated to see the previous creative team go, I can tell already that the title is in good hands. 8 out of 10 (On its way to greatness!)” – Comic Addiction

My first Authority interview has also appeared over at the Higher Authority – Tom Taylor: The Theater of Comics

“You know that feeling when you’re endangering your own love-life by juggling knives over your wife for total strangers and a hat-full of coins? No? Well, just like that, writing comics feels a little bit risky but absolutely right.”

“Tom did a great job of capturing the feeling of Luke and Yoda, it felt like the characters I have seen on the screen for the last 30 years, nothing felt forced with their dialogue.”

“There’s danger, excitement, humor, and a good dose of Luke’s determination all brought to the forefront with this story.  I highly recommend this digest if you want to see more of what Luke endured on Dagobah and what helped shape him into the Jedi he became.  Luke Skywalker and the Treasure of the Dragonsnakes is an excellent story and a great way to kick off the thirtieth anniversary of The Empire Strikes Back.” – NJOE.com

Click the image below for the full review.

Another review has surfaced over at Fancore Daily

“Didn’t you always want to see more of that training, and what it takes to become a Jedi Knight? Well, then this comic was written just for you!”

“The writing, by Tom Taylor, manages to flesh out one of the greatest stories ever told on film, while not trampling all over it, and that is a feat unto itself.”

“The plot is only part of what makes this story great. What this book does better than most Star Wars comics, is that it takes you back to that familiar place, and delivers in a way that matches up to what you remember. I’m a pretty hardcore Star Wars fan…And I’m pretty harsh on Dark Horse and the comics they choose to publish sometimes. Heck, I’m hard on the entire Expanded Universe of Star Wars.  But where those comics fail, this is one of the ones that succeeds!” – FANCORE DAILY