Tosca
by Script by Teresa Radice / Art by Stefano Turconi
Europe Comics
Comics & Graphic Novels , Middle Grade
Tosca and Rinaldo are orphans. Ever since their parents died, they have been living hidden in the forest. Lucilla is the only daughter of the Duc di Castelguelfo, famous for his exploits defending the Republic of Siena. Lucilla’s parents are too busy to pay much attention to their daughter, who still feels lonely despite being surrounded by an army of maids and servants.
But everything changes when she meets Tosca – a mini Robin Hood living a life so different from her own – and their adventures through 14th-century Tuscany begin. In this first volume in the series, they will have to save Lucilla from a fate worse than death: marriage to a man she doesn’t want.
I received an e-arc copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
3.5/4 Stars
The synopsis is just a little misleading. We follow Lucilla more than Tosca, and Lucilla doesn’t really reject her marriage – until something specific happens near the end – though she does willingly leave the castle when the opportunity comes to see the world outside.
The story is cute – a little cliche, but cute. Its also pretty short. I really really loved the art style though. I also really love the characters, and that its completely normal that the brother is the sensitive artist and the sister is the stronger/braver one.
The bulk of the story is very character driven, conversations and flashbacks but its pretty enjoyable, even if the plot is overall pretty basic. This is definitely for lower rather than upper MG.
RiverMoose-Reads 