Is she a gorgeous, fun-loving social media star with a perfect life or a gross, allergy-ridden mess? Enter a world of snot, blood, and tears in this new ongoing series from New York Times Best Seller Bryan Lee O’Malley and dazzling newcomer Leslie Hung.

This comic book introduces us to a world of fashion, social media, and personal insecurities but falls short in execution. Despite its intriguing premise and vibrant artwork, this comic book struggles to deliver a cohesive and engaging narrative.

The story in this comic book follows Lottie Person, a glamorous fashion blogger who battles severe allergies and insecurities beneath her polished exterior. This duality between her online persona and real-life challenges offers a promising exploration of identity and authenticity in the age of social media. However, the narrative fails to fully capitalize on this potential.

The character development is one of this comic book’s primary weaknesses. Lottie, while visually striking, lacks depth and relatability. Her motivations and internal struggles are not adequately explored, making it difficult for me personally to connect with or empathize with her character. The supporting cast also suffers from minimal development, with friends and acquaintances feeling more like caricatures than fully realized individuals.

The writing style in this comic book introduces a world filled with potential for satire and commentary on modern digital life, but the execution is uneven. The dialogue often feels superficial, lacking the sharpness and wit that could elevate the story. There are moments where the narrative hints at deeper themes, but these are not sufficiently developed to leave a lasting impact.

The artwork in this comic book is a standout feature. The vibrant and stylish illustrations capture the glossy, curated world of fashion blogging, adding visual appeal to the story. The character designs are distinctive and expressive, effectively conveying Lottie’s dual life. However, even strong artwork cannot fully compensate for the shortcomings in plot and character development.

The pacing of this comic book is another area of concern. This comic book introduces several plot threads but fails to weave them together cohesively. This results in a disjointed reading experience, where the stakes and direction of the story remain unclear. Key moments feel rushed, leaving little room for tension or emotional resonance.

Despite its weaknesses, the concept of this comic book holds potential for future growth. With more focused storytelling and deeper character exploration, the series could evolve into a compelling commentary on the pressures of digital life and the quest for authenticity.

I Give This Book 2 / 5