“Rust” — Vol. 1: Visitor in The Field
Writer/Artist: Royden Lepp
[rating:5/5]
Synopsis
“Life on the Taylor family farm was difficult enough before Jet Jones crashes into the barn, chased by a giant decommissioned war robot! Oldest son Roman Taylor struggles to keep his family’s small farm afloat as the area heals from a devastating world war. While the rest of his family may not trust the mysterious boy with the jetpack, Roman believes the secrets of Jet’s past may be the key to their survival.” (Source)
Review
I’ve been meaning to review Rust for quite some time now. It’s one of Archaia’s many titles that definitely deserves the praise, but I’m having trouble finding a way to word the review that isn’t “OMG SO GREAT BUY IT NOW”. Much like other releases, Rust sets itself apart from other graphic novels and all-ages fare with it’s unique, engaging atmosphere and a plot which manages to be mysterious without overwhelming.
It’s in this atmosphere and plot that Lepp tells the tale of the mysterious Jett Jones and the idealistic Roman Taylor, both who have found themselves working on the Taylor family form through circumstances out of their control. Told largely in flashback, we quickly learn that not all is as it seems, with war-era robots chasing Jett and the title character himself harboring a few (potentially deadly) secrets. Lepp has managed to craft a story that is light enough to appeal to an younger audience, but deep and engaging enough for older readers.
Further aiding the appeal of Rust is the Lepp’s unique and gorgeous art style for the book, suiting the story perfectly and pulling the eye into every page. It’s a visual style which uses it’s simple lines and washed out, sepia coloring to create a mood the likes of which we rarely see in comics, and one that works perfectly here.
Beyond a shadow of a doubt, Rust is an amazing graphic novel and definitely one worth checking out. With 3 more volumes in the works, this is the perfect time to grab a copy and get in on what’s bound to be an exciting and thrilling wave of stories.
