What do you think?
Rate this book
Buffy the Vampire Slayer: Season 9
Buffy the Vampire Slayer: Season 9, Vol. 3: Guarded
In a bold move to give disenfranchised Slayers a meaningful societal role (with pay), Kennedy recruits Buffy to act as bodyguard for high-profile clientele. But unlike the other recruits, Buffy struggles to abandon her Slaying instincts and looks for demony threats where none lie (much to Kennedy's dismay). So it's only natural that her first job is to protect a tech mogul who just so happens to be running from demon assassins! Collects Buffy Season 9 #11–#15.
136 pages, Paperback
First published August 12, 2012
15 people are currently reading
1006 people want to read
About the author
Andrew Chambliss
51 books22 followersAndrew Chambliss is an American television writer and producer. He is well known for working on series such as Dollhouse, The Vampire Diaries, and Once Upon a Time.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 179 reviews
November 29, 2021
Actual rating 3.6 stars.
I felt like this volume was the quickest and easiest to get through.
Maybe because the Buffy story wasn’t stretched out to all 5 issues.
I like how the first story showed the evolution of technology in the demon world (which I suppose it’s not really a new concept in the Buffyverse).
Not sure how that would actually work, just a bunch of coding that allows you to transmit messages between dimensions.
I guess it’s just part of the mag- oh, wait…
I appreciated Buffy’s choice in the end.
She’s been a Slayer for so long. That is her calling and she doesn’t want to ignore it. But Kennedy was right; things have changed and to see Buffy choose to continue down that path, knowing she must change along with it, is cool.
I’m excited to see what this ‘new’ Buffy will look like.
The second story is about a boy named Billy (no, not that Billy). He has a friend called Katie and a crush named Devon.
I liked the first issue but it was a little unbelievable that a teenager and his self appointed Watcher (also a teen) was able to take on practically an army of zompires.
Sure, they have no cohesive thoughts but they’re still deadly strong and super vicious. Even with the right incentive, it’s a little unbelievable they made it out without a scratch.
The end made it seem like we may see more of these characters and I wouldn’t mind that!
I felt like this volume was the quickest and easiest to get through.
Maybe because the Buffy story wasn’t stretched out to all 5 issues.
I like how the first story showed the evolution of technology in the demon world (which I suppose it’s not really a new concept in the Buffyverse).
Not sure how that would actually work, just a bunch of coding that allows you to transmit messages between dimensions.
I guess it’s just part of the mag- oh, wait…
I appreciated Buffy’s choice in the end.
She’s been a Slayer for so long. That is her calling and she doesn’t want to ignore it. But Kennedy was right; things have changed and to see Buffy choose to continue down that path, knowing she must change along with it, is cool.
I’m excited to see what this ‘new’ Buffy will look like.
The second story is about a boy named Billy (no, not that Billy). He has a friend called Katie and a crush named Devon.
I liked the first issue but it was a little unbelievable that a teenager and his self appointed Watcher (also a teen) was able to take on practically an army of zompires.
Sure, they have no cohesive thoughts but they’re still deadly strong and super vicious. Even with the right incentive, it’s a little unbelievable they made it out without a scratch.
The end made it seem like we may see more of these characters and I wouldn’t mind that!
January 9, 2019
Contains 2 stories, Guarded and Billy the Vampire Slayer. In Guarded, Kennedy has started a personal security firm using Slayers as bodyguards. Buffy joins up and is terrible at it. The story is just OK and George Jeanty's art seems to get worse each time I see it in Buffy. Especially when Karl Moline draws the second story.
Billy the Vampire Slayer is about a gay teenager in a small town who becomes a Zompire Slayer. No, he's not a chosen one, he just doesn't want to see his town overrun. The story is heartwarming and funny with great art.
I have to say I miss the overarching story of Season 8. Buffy seems to be floundering and it's kinda boring.
Billy the Vampire Slayer is about a gay teenager in a small town who becomes a Zompire Slayer. No, he's not a chosen one, he just doesn't want to see his town overrun. The story is heartwarming and funny with great art.
I have to say I miss the overarching story of Season 8. Buffy seems to be floundering and it's kinda boring.
January 9, 2019
Well, every other volume seems to be good right now. This was a fun romp. I am glad that Kennedy came back and she has started up a security firm for Slayers. She and Buffy work a case.
I really enjoyed the 2nd half of the volume. Billy the Vampire Slayer. Billy is a gay teen living in a small town where he is bullied. It turns out that gay Billy is the first ever male Slayer. I thought that was so very cool. He has a lot to learn still. The 2 issues about him were a lot of fun and there is a love interest in Devon who is going to be Billy's Watcher.
There weren't many of our regular characters in this one, only Buffy and Kennedy. Everyone else is off doing something else. The story was reasonable and I had a lot of fun reading this. I hope the next one will be good too. Maybe, this has turned into Star Trek, the original movies where only the even numbered ones were good. In the Buffy world, only the odd numbered volumes are good. I don't know if it really works that way, but, it's a thought at this moment.
I really enjoyed the 2nd half of the volume. Billy the Vampire Slayer. Billy is a gay teen living in a small town where he is bullied. It turns out that gay Billy is the first ever male Slayer. I thought that was so very cool. He has a lot to learn still. The 2 issues about him were a lot of fun and there is a love interest in Devon who is going to be Billy's Watcher.
There weren't many of our regular characters in this one, only Buffy and Kennedy. Everyone else is off doing something else. The story was reasonable and I had a lot of fun reading this. I hope the next one will be good too. Maybe, this has turned into Star Trek, the original movies where only the even numbered ones were good. In the Buffy world, only the odd numbered volumes are good. I don't know if it really works that way, but, it's a thought at this moment.
September 17, 2020
I wish I would have documented it, but when like “the magic” was taken from the world of Buffy the Vampire Slayer I was like “all these girls can get high-paying jobs as body guards now” and behold, that is what Kennedy thought too!
So, with no heed to the other slayers thoughts, Kennedy hires Buffy. Buffy struggles with not taking the lead and taking orders instead. This whole thing is a big eye-opener for Buffy and I just want her to catch a break. She is still going when most people would have given up, and I love her for that. *acts like Buffy is a real life person and looks up to her as a role model*
And there's some demon that's so large that we never see the full of it and just its tentacles. Can we all say ew?
Anyway, the last few issues kind of spins off to some dudes and I wasn’t really into it but Buffy came back in the end and it might play a part in the rest of the series? Who knows with graphic novels.
So, with no heed to the other slayers thoughts, Kennedy hires Buffy. Buffy struggles with not taking the lead and taking orders instead. This whole thing is a big eye-opener for Buffy and I just want her to catch a break. She is still going when most people would have given up, and I love her for that. *acts like Buffy is a real life person and looks up to her as a role model*
And there's some demon that's so large that we never see the full of it and just its tentacles. Can we all say ew?
Anyway, the last few issues kind of spins off to some dudes and I wasn’t really into it but Buffy came back in the end and it might play a part in the rest of the series? Who knows with graphic novels.
November 22, 2015
The Good: I've always liked Kennedy (which is a major sin in the Buffy loving world) and really enjoyed seeing her in the forefront of this volume. Kennedy is making the world work for her, something we always knew she's excel at. Buffy is floundering (as always). So Buffy goes to work for Kennedy. I loved seeing Buffy attempt a normal job that works with her slayer abilities. I loved seeing her struggle with no longer being the Chosen "One" and now being just another slayer in a world chock full of them, and not being the best at dealing with day to day issues.
The Bad: Billy the vampire slayer. Yay for including more gay characters. Boo for making a weird situation out of it. There are men who slay vampires, but they aren't slayers. I appreciate what they're trying to do here, but calling him a slayer, just because he's attracted to dudes is ridiculous. Men don't have the powers bestowed upon a slayer. Billy doesn't have the power either, because sexuality doesn't define gender. Slayers are women. Kennedy is a lesbian and that didn't take away her slayer abilities. It has nothing to do with who you love and you can't just go around calling every person a slayer when they clearly haven't been mystically called.
The Bad: Billy the vampire slayer. Yay for including more gay characters. Boo for making a weird situation out of it. There are men who slay vampires, but they aren't slayers. I appreciate what they're trying to do here, but calling him a slayer, just because he's attracted to dudes is ridiculous. Men don't have the powers bestowed upon a slayer. Billy doesn't have the power either, because sexuality doesn't define gender. Slayers are women. Kennedy is a lesbian and that didn't take away her slayer abilities. It has nothing to do with who you love and you can't just go around calling every person a slayer when they clearly haven't been mystically called.
dnf-or-on-hold
June 10, 2020On hold for a while. Leaving it at:
Guarded (part 2) (El protegido, segunda parte)
Guarded (part 2) (El protegido, segunda parte)
February 24, 2023
Pros: The first half of this volume where Kennedy has started a bodyguard business and Buffy is testing the waters there + a Wolfram and Hart comeback.
Cons: BILLY the Vampire Slayer for 2 whole sections? I mean, I like the idea of introducing a gay male "Slayer" but to have 2 entire comics with 3 frames of Buffy... and SO much cheesy dialogue... ruined it. I almost want to drop this to 2 stars... But I will just trust the process... and... I dunno...
Cons: BILLY the Vampire Slayer for 2 whole sections? I mean, I like the idea of introducing a gay male "Slayer" but to have 2 entire comics with 3 frames of Buffy... and SO much cheesy dialogue... ruined it. I almost want to drop this to 2 stars... But I will just trust the process... and... I dunno...
May 13, 2016
*Book source ~ Library
From Goodreads:
In a bold move to give disenfranchised Slayers a meaningful societal role (with pay), Kennedy recruits Buffy to act as bodyguard for high-profile clientele. But unlike the other recruits, Buffy struggles to abandon her Slaying instincts and looks for demony threats where none lie (much to Kennedy's dismay). So it's only natural that her first job is to protect a tech mogul who just so happens to be running from demon assassins! Collects Buffy Season 9 #11–#15.
This issue has two stories, Guarded and Billy the Vampire Slayer. In Guarded, Kennedy has gotten some the slayers jobs as bodyguards. I’d take a slayer bodyguard. They’re strong and fast, so as long as they know what the hell they’re doing I think that’s a great job for them now that magic is gone. Plus, it pays really well. The problem with Buffy is that she’s been a slayer for so long she can’t just let the instinct go. It’s hard for her to adjust. I was really hoping Eldre Koh would be a great addition to the Scoobies. I’m disappointed. Also, I like that the police are taking the zompires seriously. I like the way that development is heading.
Billy the Vampire Slayer is an interesting addition to Buffy’s world. I look forward to seeing where he and Devon are heading and if they stick around. And are they more people out there like Billy? Inquiring minds want to know.
As always, I love the artwork. Though that guy at the end of Billy’s story? Who the hell is that?! I have no clue. And that’s frustrating.
From Goodreads:
In a bold move to give disenfranchised Slayers a meaningful societal role (with pay), Kennedy recruits Buffy to act as bodyguard for high-profile clientele. But unlike the other recruits, Buffy struggles to abandon her Slaying instincts and looks for demony threats where none lie (much to Kennedy's dismay). So it's only natural that her first job is to protect a tech mogul who just so happens to be running from demon assassins! Collects Buffy Season 9 #11–#15.
This issue has two stories, Guarded and Billy the Vampire Slayer. In Guarded, Kennedy has gotten some the slayers jobs as bodyguards. I’d take a slayer bodyguard. They’re strong and fast, so as long as they know what the hell they’re doing I think that’s a great job for them now that magic is gone. Plus, it pays really well. The problem with Buffy is that she’s been a slayer for so long she can’t just let the instinct go. It’s hard for her to adjust. I was really hoping Eldre Koh would be a great addition to the Scoobies. I’m disappointed. Also, I like that the police are taking the zompires seriously. I like the way that development is heading.
Billy the Vampire Slayer is an interesting addition to Buffy’s world. I look forward to seeing where he and Devon are heading and if they stick around. And are they more people out there like Billy? Inquiring minds want to know.
As always, I love the artwork. Though that guy at the end of Billy’s story? Who the hell is that?! I have no clue. And that’s frustrating.
June 11, 2013
So Buffy tries to find herself, again. At this point, I've read this story so many times, in so many largely similar ways, that it just fails to engage me. That said, I like the idea of Kennedy's army of Slayer bodyguards, and I'm glad that somebody gave thought to what's become of her. Billy the Zompire Slayer's story was far more compelling. Billy is a great new character, and I loved watching him come into his own. And the dynamic between him and his best friend, and him and his Watcher and soon-to-be-boyfriend are sweet and really well done. I hope that they show up more. That said, I don't know if we should be wanting this to go on forever. A good stopping point would be nice.
Oh, and after ripping on the art for nearly every volume of IDW's Angel series, I have to say that it's quite good here. The characters look as they ought, and there are some really nicely done panels. A nice job on an established property.
Oh, and after ripping on the art for nearly every volume of IDW's Angel series, I have to say that it's quite good here. The characters look as they ought, and there are some really nicely done panels. A nice job on an established property.
February 22, 2020
Not awful but not good. The security job intrigued the hell out of me; I think it could have been a fantastic way to provide Buffy a new direction (and a bit more financial stability, for a change), and I actually found myself enjoying Kennedy for the first time ever in this series.
Then, of course, they backtracked to (doubtlessly) go some dumbass, far-inferior route.
I wasn't a fan of the last story with Billy, either. It was way forced, way corny, and way pointless. I just want to have a talk with the fucking writers because, like, why is getting consistent quality from them so agonizingly difficult?
Then, of course, they backtracked to (doubtlessly) go some dumbass, far-inferior route.
I wasn't a fan of the last story with Billy, either. It was way forced, way corny, and way pointless. I just want to have a talk with the fucking writers because, like, why is getting consistent quality from them so agonizingly difficult?
April 1, 2015
As many of you lovely readers know, I do love my graphic novels. I review them all the time, and they are a constant staple in my life. What you may not know, however, is that the very first graphic novel I ever read was Buffy the Vampire Slayer. It was the omnibus Vol. 1 of Buffy—soon after I began the Season 8 BtVS graphic novels and was addicted. I loved the show, and all the gorgeous graphics and banter between characters I knew so well. It didn't take long for me to expand into other graphic novels and ..the rest is history!
So it's been awhile since I have read Buffy…I haven't read much of Season 9 and I know I have Season 10 to catch up to lol. I got this copy like a year ago and just wasn't in the mood for Buffy I feel like this season has been kind of "meh" aside from the magnificent Willow One Shot I read last year. That was superb. And, talking to others I realized I wasn't the only one who was actually more impressed with the Angel + Faith Season vs. Buffy S9.
What I did like in this: The last half. It contained a good taste of "Billy the Vampire Slayer".. The first male slayer who is gay and amazing and his watcher is gay too. He's kick ass and basically isn't officially "called" but was called to action when the zombie vampires came to his town. I really felt like it was refreshing…I just felt like this series needed some new characters. I hope we see more of Billy the Vampire Slayer. That was why I gave this 3 stars…otherwise I would've given it 2, which is crazy! I mean, I never thought I'd give Buffy such a low rating, sorry Buffs. It's just that this was kind of a ehhhh not that great for me.
Kennedy was annoying. And bitchy..imho at least. Buffy was okay, not as much sass and I like her to have. Maybe that's just the way she's going to be now? oh please no, let's hope that's not true. I'm going to continue reading this series, but I don't have the next one and am not exactly running to buy it. To be honest with you, I think my money might be better spent buying Vol. 2 of the Angel + Faith season that I left off on.
If you're reading this series and not yet up to this, just know that it isn't the best. BUT I heard from many reliable sources that it does get better starting in the next volume and for sure in Volume 5 things pick up. I'll let you know if I think that's accurate or not, but it may be awhile. Until then I'm going to read the other (few) random graphic novels I have on my bookshelf.
So it's been awhile since I have read Buffy…I haven't read much of Season 9 and I know I have Season 10 to catch up to lol. I got this copy like a year ago and just wasn't in the mood for Buffy I feel like this season has been kind of "meh" aside from the magnificent Willow One Shot I read last year. That was superb. And, talking to others I realized I wasn't the only one who was actually more impressed with the Angel + Faith Season vs. Buffy S9.
What I did like in this: The last half. It contained a good taste of "Billy the Vampire Slayer".. The first male slayer who is gay and amazing and his watcher is gay too. He's kick ass and basically isn't officially "called" but was called to action when the zombie vampires came to his town. I really felt like it was refreshing…I just felt like this series needed some new characters. I hope we see more of Billy the Vampire Slayer. That was why I gave this 3 stars…otherwise I would've given it 2, which is crazy! I mean, I never thought I'd give Buffy such a low rating, sorry Buffs. It's just that this was kind of a ehhhh not that great for me.
Kennedy was annoying. And bitchy..imho at least. Buffy was okay, not as much sass and I like her to have. Maybe that's just the way she's going to be now? oh please no, let's hope that's not true. I'm going to continue reading this series, but I don't have the next one and am not exactly running to buy it. To be honest with you, I think my money might be better spent buying Vol. 2 of the Angel + Faith season that I left off on.
If you're reading this series and not yet up to this, just know that it isn't the best. BUT I heard from many reliable sources that it does get better starting in the next volume and for sure in Volume 5 things pick up. I'll let you know if I think that's accurate or not, but it may be awhile. Until then I'm going to read the other (few) random graphic novels I have on my bookshelf.
July 5, 2015
After having read season nine volume two of Buffy the Vampire Slayer which is entitled On Your Own I have to be honest, I was worried what direction Joss and the other writers were going to take Buffy. The ending of On Your Own left me hopeful that things would be okay or at least go in an exciting direction. This was the understatement of the year!
Guarded takes Buffy on a whole new kind of adventure that honestly, fits perfect with the age she is supposed to be right now, for those who don't know she's supposed to 26- 27ish. A lot of things that had been brought up and dropped in season nine volume one and season eight were brought back in this one, giving both seasons a nice, clean, wrap up. However, this is not the last volume of season nine, there is still one more which begs the question where does Buffy go from here. I am not sure yet and I do have my own theories/ ideas about how season nine will wrap up in the last volume but I can tell you that I am excited for Buffy and the adventures that are in store for her. It was also announced at comic con that Buffy the Vampire Slayer was picked up for season 10 with means more graphic novels are in store for Buffy and with the way season nine is going right now, honestly, I couldn't be happier :)
Guarded takes Buffy on a whole new kind of adventure that honestly, fits perfect with the age she is supposed to be right now, for those who don't know she's supposed to 26- 27ish. A lot of things that had been brought up and dropped in season nine volume one and season eight were brought back in this one, giving both seasons a nice, clean, wrap up. However, this is not the last volume of season nine, there is still one more which begs the question where does Buffy go from here. I am not sure yet and I do have my own theories/ ideas about how season nine will wrap up in the last volume but I can tell you that I am excited for Buffy and the adventures that are in store for her. It was also announced at comic con that Buffy the Vampire Slayer was picked up for season 10 with means more graphic novels are in store for Buffy and with the way season nine is going right now, honestly, I couldn't be happier :)
September 9, 2013
Still fun, but Buffy's actions were more frustrating in this one.
The last story was sweet but Buffy showing up at the end like she'd been watching or narrating the whole time was kind of goofy.
I like the artwork and the occasional Whedonesque line of dialogue. I'll stick with them, at least for a little while more.
The last story was sweet but Buffy showing up at the end like she'd been watching or narrating the whole time was kind of goofy.
I like the artwork and the occasional Whedonesque line of dialogue. I'll stick with them, at least for a little while more.
June 26, 2013
Weakest of the S8 & S9 Buffys. Little story advancement & no support cast except Kennedy. And the 2nd half is solely about a boy named Billy, that while nicely supportive in an "It Gets Better" campaign sorta way, is kinda bland & only brings in Buffy on the last page, and in a non-connecty way. Feels more like 2 one-offs packaged together than an actual entry in the rest of the season.
March 25, 2016
The Buffy storyline was just okay, but I LOVED Billy the Vampire Slayer.
December 28, 2016
3/5 stars.
Meh this one was okay, I skimmed a bit of it.
Meh this one was okay, I skimmed a bit of it.
May 17, 2013
I came late to the Buffy the Vampire Slayer TV series starting mid-series in syndication, which explains why I am all about Team Spike. I was instantly hooked. Thanks to Netflix I was finally able to watch the entire series in order on DVD, and then almost immediately after I finished they made it available via streaming. Sigh. Lesson learned? Umm, maybe not because I am following the same model to catch up on True Blood.
My point here is that it makes sense that I will jump into the graphic novels series starting with Buffy the Vampire Slayer Season 9 Volume 3. Just as it was with the television series, consider me instantly hooked.
The artwork is simply fantastic, especially the cover images. I am so glad that that Jeanty did not try to create new interpretations of the characters. It would just be weird for the characters to look way different from the television counter-parts. Besides, this way it kind of feels like visiting with old friends.
The script also does a very good job of capturing the tone of the characters and the show in general. I could just hear Sarah Michelle Geller’s voice in my head as I was reading Buffy’s dialog. The storyline had the same great combination of action and humor that I so loved about the TV show.
I loved the plot line of using Slayers as body guards now that evil has mostly been eradicated from our realm. This setting allows for new challenges as Buffy struggles to blend in. This is a key element to Buffy’s character, she IS different. This both gives her strength and causes her to make mistakes. And, the demonic social networking? Hilarious!
My favorite lines:
•“Who’s taking a slaycation.” ~ Buffy
•“We’re in the same boat. The S.S. I-Could-Really-Use-Your-Help.” ~ Buffy
Favorite panels:
•P. 18 I love how the shadows and light play upon the the close-up of Eldre Koh’s face. His eyes seems to burn with intensity.
•P. 34 The close-up on Buffy’s eyes reveals the intensity of her expression
•P. 45 Buffy hanging in mid air as she leaps to attack the Teuth demon brandishing a battle axe. Killer. Figuratively and literally.
•P. 74 The simplicity of the night sky is the perfect backdrop to capture their sillouettes as they watch the building burn. Again, the lighting effects are great. I also like the evidience of their recent battle, especially the bedraggled and blood spattered Buffy.
This volume also had a nice little bonus story to introduce Billy the Vampire Slayer. I loved Billy’s story and I hope this means that we will be seeing more of him in the future. All along BtVS has been about strength and empowerment. He turns his need to defend himself from bullying into something more, becoming a Slayer.
Favorite Lines:
•“Oh, I heard your moxie loud and clear right before you slammed the door.” ~ Devon
•“Okay, I’m actually going to need that.” ~ Billy
•“…you belong.” ~ Buffy
Favorite Panels:
•P. 88 The close-up of Billy’s face captures the bemusement that we’ve all felt as a teen when a crush unexpectedly noticed us.
•P. 89 Chaos reigns supreme in this awesome depiction of the zompire horde taking over Cubemasher video. There is just so much going on in this image.
•P. 124 This is just a big ole bag of awesome. This frame captures a bit of each character’s personality from facial expressions to posture. It is well-balanced and the perspective of the bright moon above the city makes a great visual impact. The very best thing about this cell is the social statement being made in Buffy’s facial expression, as well as her words, “…you belong.”
The good thing about coming late to this party, I have plenty to keep me occupied until the next edition comes out.
*This review was originally published on Silk Screen Views review blog.
My point here is that it makes sense that I will jump into the graphic novels series starting with Buffy the Vampire Slayer Season 9 Volume 3. Just as it was with the television series, consider me instantly hooked.
The artwork is simply fantastic, especially the cover images. I am so glad that that Jeanty did not try to create new interpretations of the characters. It would just be weird for the characters to look way different from the television counter-parts. Besides, this way it kind of feels like visiting with old friends.
The script also does a very good job of capturing the tone of the characters and the show in general. I could just hear Sarah Michelle Geller’s voice in my head as I was reading Buffy’s dialog. The storyline had the same great combination of action and humor that I so loved about the TV show.
I loved the plot line of using Slayers as body guards now that evil has mostly been eradicated from our realm. This setting allows for new challenges as Buffy struggles to blend in. This is a key element to Buffy’s character, she IS different. This both gives her strength and causes her to make mistakes. And, the demonic social networking? Hilarious!
My favorite lines:
•“Who’s taking a slaycation.” ~ Buffy
•“We’re in the same boat. The S.S. I-Could-Really-Use-Your-Help.” ~ Buffy
Favorite panels:
•P. 18 I love how the shadows and light play upon the the close-up of Eldre Koh’s face. His eyes seems to burn with intensity.
•P. 34 The close-up on Buffy’s eyes reveals the intensity of her expression
•P. 45 Buffy hanging in mid air as she leaps to attack the Teuth demon brandishing a battle axe. Killer. Figuratively and literally.
•P. 74 The simplicity of the night sky is the perfect backdrop to capture their sillouettes as they watch the building burn. Again, the lighting effects are great. I also like the evidience of their recent battle, especially the bedraggled and blood spattered Buffy.
This volume also had a nice little bonus story to introduce Billy the Vampire Slayer. I loved Billy’s story and I hope this means that we will be seeing more of him in the future. All along BtVS has been about strength and empowerment. He turns his need to defend himself from bullying into something more, becoming a Slayer.
Favorite Lines:
•“Oh, I heard your moxie loud and clear right before you slammed the door.” ~ Devon
•“Okay, I’m actually going to need that.” ~ Billy
•“…you belong.” ~ Buffy
Favorite Panels:
•P. 88 The close-up of Billy’s face captures the bemusement that we’ve all felt as a teen when a crush unexpectedly noticed us.
•P. 89 Chaos reigns supreme in this awesome depiction of the zompire horde taking over Cubemasher video. There is just so much going on in this image.
•P. 124 This is just a big ole bag of awesome. This frame captures a bit of each character’s personality from facial expressions to posture. It is well-balanced and the perspective of the bright moon above the city makes a great visual impact. The very best thing about this cell is the social statement being made in Buffy’s facial expression, as well as her words, “…you belong.”
The good thing about coming late to this party, I have plenty to keep me occupied until the next edition comes out.
*This review was originally published on Silk Screen Views review blog.
January 26, 2014
A solid follow-up to the last volume, but still lacking some of the oomph. No Xander, Dawn, Willow, or Spike in this one- really, no Scoobies at all! Kennedy doesn't count. But this is the first issue she isn't TOO annoying in...
Koh is becoming a more interesting character as well. I thought there might be some tension between him and Buffy in the relationship/physical area, but boy was I wrong. Though I still have hopes for the future, because I like him. I think he's drawn in a very positive light- lots of focus on his face, his decisions, his indecisions, his agony. And he's still a mystery, which means we haven't seen the end of him yet.
I'm a little sad to see Wolfram and Hart in this- especially because I haven't finished Angel yet and I don't really know W+H's full deal. Not that I'm surprised the senior partners are demons, but all the same. They seemed pretty helpless and insignificant here. The far greater tension was between Koh and Buffy.
It seemed like a very short volume, in all. Perhaps that was to make way for Billy the Vampire Slayer, which I LOVED. By the way, I LOVE how Joss Whedon and Buffy are super pro-gay, it makes me really happy. And for Cute Devon and Billy to both survive the issues? Well that was a feat unto itself! I hope we see more of them. Sky the grandmother was pretty cool too, especially since she worked at the library- but I doubt we'll see her again.
And, ugh, Karl Moline penciled the last Billy issues. BUT since there weren't mostly characters that I already knew, he didn't butcher too much. In fact, it wasn't too bad. Stick with new characters, Karl, and let Georges take the familiar ones.
Koh is becoming a more interesting character as well. I thought there might be some tension between him and Buffy in the relationship/physical area, but boy was I wrong. Though I still have hopes for the future, because I like him. I think he's drawn in a very positive light- lots of focus on his face, his decisions, his indecisions, his agony. And he's still a mystery, which means we haven't seen the end of him yet.
I'm a little sad to see Wolfram and Hart in this- especially because I haven't finished Angel yet and I don't really know W+H's full deal. Not that I'm surprised the senior partners are demons, but all the same. They seemed pretty helpless and insignificant here. The far greater tension was between Koh and Buffy.
It seemed like a very short volume, in all. Perhaps that was to make way for Billy the Vampire Slayer, which I LOVED. By the way, I LOVE how Joss Whedon and Buffy are super pro-gay, it makes me really happy. And for Cute Devon and Billy to both survive the issues? Well that was a feat unto itself! I hope we see more of them. Sky the grandmother was pretty cool too, especially since she worked at the library- but I doubt we'll see her again.
And, ugh, Karl Moline penciled the last Billy issues. BUT since there weren't mostly characters that I already knew, he didn't butcher too much. In fact, it wasn't too bad. Stick with new characters, Karl, and let Georges take the familiar ones.
May 20, 2013
A graphic novel with 2 separate stories that both left me a little flat. The art is rendered fine, and I know this is part of a larger "Season 9" series, but these 2 episodes felt a little too much like filler. Having guest writers Jane Espenson and Drew Greenberg writing one didn't do much for me.
In the first story, Buffy is hired by Kennedy to act as a bodyguard in her post-slayer career. Buffy can't help seeing demons around every corner and this proves problematic, at first. Then a case comes up regarding a high-profile client who invented a sort of Facebook for demons. The second story deals with Billy, who is the first boy slayer chosen. This story was written by the guest writers (both veteran writers of the Buffy TV show), but it falls flat as well. Buffy makes an appearance towards the end of this story. Billy might be an interesting character eventually, but here he is a bullied young man living with his aging hippie grandmother. He fights against the new zompire epidemic.
I suppose completists will need to purchase this, and I realize that they are just collecting individual issues in a larger volume, but I kind of like my graphic novels to have a larger cohesive story arc. While the two stories are somewhat linked by the growing zompire epidemic, there is little reference back and forth. Buffy shows up at the end of Billy's story, but it almost seems random.
In the first story, Buffy is hired by Kennedy to act as a bodyguard in her post-slayer career. Buffy can't help seeing demons around every corner and this proves problematic, at first. Then a case comes up regarding a high-profile client who invented a sort of Facebook for demons. The second story deals with Billy, who is the first boy slayer chosen. This story was written by the guest writers (both veteran writers of the Buffy TV show), but it falls flat as well. Buffy makes an appearance towards the end of this story. Billy might be an interesting character eventually, but here he is a bullied young man living with his aging hippie grandmother. He fights against the new zompire epidemic.
I suppose completists will need to purchase this, and I realize that they are just collecting individual issues in a larger volume, but I kind of like my graphic novels to have a larger cohesive story arc. While the two stories are somewhat linked by the growing zompire epidemic, there is little reference back and forth. Buffy shows up at the end of Billy's story, but it almost seems random.
May 4, 2013
A quieter stretch for the season with two shorter disconnected stories making up these five issues. The first sees Buffy working for Kennedy's firm as a Slayer-for-hire corporate bodyguard, the second introduces Billy the Vampire Slayer, the series finally exploring male gay characters (and doing it pretty well).
We're exactly where we need to be with this comic in the run-up to the final 10 issues of the season. We've had big drama, an ethical dilemma, crazy twists, a classic monster of the week scenario and an unusual, cute, short. Can't wait to see where it all goes next. My only gripe still is that this season just hasn't been as out-and-out funny!
We're exactly where we need to be with this comic in the run-up to the final 10 issues of the season. We've had big drama, an ethical dilemma, crazy twists, a classic monster of the week scenario and an unusual, cute, short. Can't wait to see where it all goes next. My only gripe still is that this season just hasn't been as out-and-out funny!
July 17, 2023
#1 buffy the vampire slayer: freefall ★★★★☆
#2 buffy the vampire slayer: on your own ★★★☆☆
#3 buffy the vampire slayer: guarded ★★☆☆☆
#4 buffy the vampire slayer: welcome to the team ★★★☆☆
#5 buffy the vampire slayer: the core ★★★☆☆
more erasure of multisexuality and some gay antagonism. can’t say i really cared for this one.
#2 buffy the vampire slayer: on your own ★★★☆☆
#3 buffy the vampire slayer: guarded ★★☆☆☆
#4 buffy the vampire slayer: welcome to the team ★★★☆☆
#5 buffy the vampire slayer: the core ★★★☆☆
more erasure of multisexuality and some gay antagonism. can’t say i really cared for this one.
April 17, 2014
I guess it's okay that this is just...okay, right?
The Buffy storyline continues to meander a bit as she adjusts to the world without magic, and adjusts to not having to be The Slayer. That's all well and good, but the answer is to make her a paid bodyguard (which is strange) and then stop the arc rather abruptly to move onto what may or may not be a new character being added? I don't know.
I guess I'm just looking for things to happen, and it feels like the series is just treading water a bit. Hopefully things turn around a little?
The Buffy storyline continues to meander a bit as she adjusts to the world without magic, and adjusts to not having to be The Slayer. That's all well and good, but the answer is to make her a paid bodyguard (which is strange) and then stop the arc rather abruptly to move onto what may or may not be a new character being added? I don't know.
I guess I'm just looking for things to happen, and it feels like the series is just treading water a bit. Hopefully things turn around a little?
January 18, 2015
This is the second time in a few issues that Buffy is handed a cushy cushion to land on, but she decides to decline all offers of personal comfort and recompense because they're all too easy. What's wrong with this woman? Getting all super-powery got you all twisted in your ethics?
For a soap opera, it's still pretty classic.
For a soap opera, it's still pretty classic.
August 9, 2017
The highlight of this collection for me was the introduction of Billy the Vampire Slayer. It is nice to see a gay male character in the slayerverse. It is exciting to see the way that a character without the benefit of superpowers other than his own wits is taking a role in the fight against the zompires.
September 11, 2014
This was another good comic. Slayers as bodyguards sounds pretty good. Then, we also meet Billy who is the first boy Vampire Slayer. Not too bad.
June 25, 2013
Really enjoyed this one.
December 14, 2017
Meh. Don't care about Kennedy, don't care about Wolfram and Hart, don't care about this Billy the Vampire Slayer.
August 9, 2020
Buffy tries to be a body guard and tries to work for Kennedy. We know darn well from the beginning that is not going to work out. Also, I vaguely remember reading a comic in which Faith also tries to work as a body guard?
There is a short piece at the end of the volume about a boy who becomes a slayer and the boy who has a crush on him who becomes his watcher. A sweet story, perhaps too sweet.
There is a short piece at the end of the volume about a boy who becomes a slayer and the boy who has a crush on him who becomes his watcher. A sweet story, perhaps too sweet.
April 20, 2020
Love it
August 7, 2020
I'm giving this one a higher rating than average for these, mostly because I'm really interested in the new Billy storyline.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 179 reviews