Dolls of Despair by C.G. Salamander – fun and exhilarating graphic novel

Dolls of Despair is a fun and exhilarating graphic novel, set in a magical world filled with captivating characters and vibrant illustrations.

Synopsis

Armed with her mother’s map, Maithili is out to find the truth behind her disappearance. But haunted by ominous visions of a strange boy, Maithili might just lead her friends into the clutches of something sinister.

Will Maithili, Minotaur and their friends find what they’re looking for? Or will they be stuck in the cave of a thousand eyes forever?

Review

Maithili and the Minotaur: Dolls of Despair is the third book in the Outlandish graphic novel series, set in a world where humans, witches, and monsters coexist but remain mistrustful of one another, living in separate regions.

In Dolls of Despair, Maithili embarks on a perilous journey to rescue her mother from the clutches of the evil Voice of All Beings, who has imprisoned her. Along the way, she faces a series of obstacles set by the Voice and its minions, who seek to lure Maithili into darkness.

However, Maithili is not alone. She is joined by a group of loyal companions: the Minotaur, who shares a special bond with her; Nagesh, who calls himself the Lord Commander of Snakes; a Wolfhound, whom only Nagesh can understand; and Anjali, a mysterious character who appears human but whose true nature remains unclear.

Dolls of Despair is a quick but visually stunning read, with each scenario marked by distinct color themes. Four key narrative threads are woven together: Maithili and her companions using a map left by her mother to find the next clue; the minions of the Voice of All Beings growing ever closer to tracking down Maithili; Maithili and the Minotaur on their quest to reunite with their friends; and Maithili’s disturbing nightmares about a boy.

While I haven’t read the earlier books in the series, the backstory revealed just before the climax provided enough context to understand Maithili’s past, her family, and how her journey began. Though Maithili and the Minotaur are central characters, the story shifts focus toward the boy from Maithili’s nightmare and his connection to the minion of the Voice of All Beings. His tragic backstory, uncovered during the climax, explains how he gave in to darkness. This part of the novel is particularly intense and might be too frightening for younger readers.

At its core, Dolls of Despair is a tale of friendship and the battle against evil, highlighting the strong bond between Maithili and her companions. The climax, in which they fight together, is thrilling, and Maithili’s emerging powers—still a mystery even to her—raise intriguing questions that are likely to be explored in future installments.

Overall, Dolls of Despair is a fun and exhilarating graphic novel, set in a magical world filled with captivating characters and vibrant illustrations. I think I would have enjoyed Dolls of Despair even more if I have read previous books in this series.

Book Links

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