Fence Vol. 1 by C. S. Pacat and Johanna the Mad
Published: July 31, 2018 *individual issues already out*
Rating: 4.5/5
Nicholas Cox is determined to prove himself in the world of competitive fencing, and earn his place alongside fencing legends like the dad he never knew, but things get more complicated when he’s up against his golden-boy half-brother, as well as sullen fencing prodigy, Seiji Katayama.
Nicholas, the illegitimate son of a retired fencing champion, is a scrappy fencing wunderkind, and dreams of getting the chance and the training to actually compete. After getting accepted to the prodigious Kings Row private school, Nicholas is thrust into a cut-throat world, and finds himself facing not only his golden-boy half-brother, but the unbeatable, mysterious Seiji Katayama…
Through clashes, rivalries, and romance between teammates, Nicholas and the boys of Kings Row will discover there’s much more to fencing than just foils and lunges. From acclaimed writer C.S. Pacat (The Captive Prince) and fan-favorite artist Johanna the Mad.
This comic has taken the cake as my second favorite sports comic of all time. (Check Please! is the best, and if you enjoy comics or hockey or love, definitely check out this free web series because it’s amazing. You can check it out HERE.)
I really love all the boys, and some of the scenes made me laugh out loud. This series does require a little bit of a suspense of belief because almost if not EVERYONE at the school is gay (but I love it).
I went into this story with little to know knowledge about fencing, and my knowledge of the sport hasn’t really improved. My friend used to be big into the sport, and has told me that the terms/positions/rules are fairly accurate although he took issue with the description of the regional tournament described in the first issue for whatever reason.
The art is absolutely stunning and beautiful. Johanna the Mad also has some amazing fanart, so if you’re interested in seeing some of her work I recommend some of her Yuri!!! On Ice or Harry Potter art.
Overall, definitely a series that I’ll be continuing in the future. I’m excited to see where the story goes, and how the various romances develop!
Emie's Nook 