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Sunder ― Tome One: Small Beginnings
Great things come from small beginnings!
When a mysterious book appears in the library of a young monk named Zeek, he must embark on a quest to find its rightful owner. Unbeknownst to him, another dark figure has been searching for this very book for a very long time, sending his minions across the known planets and using dark magic to find it at all costs. When this evil figure realizes the manuscript has finally resurfaced, it sets events in motion that will send Zeek on an adventure unlike anything he could have ever imagined–leading Zeek to discover his true identity and destiny.
When a mysterious book appears in the library of a young monk named Zeek, he must embark on a quest to find its rightful owner. Unbeknownst to him, another dark figure has been searching for this very book for a very long time, sending his minions across the known planets and using dark magic to find it at all costs. When this evil figure realizes the manuscript has finally resurfaced, it sets events in motion that will send Zeek on an adventure unlike anything he could have ever imagined–leading Zeek to discover his true identity and destiny.
168 pages, Paperback
Published May 6, 2025
1 person is currently reading
25 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews
April 12, 2025
Mad Cave Studios provided an early galley for review.
What attracted me to this title was the cover; it has a very mid-80's independent vibe to it that made me very nostalgic.
This coming of age tale, with its cast of colorful characters, strikes the right balance of adventure and charm. The artwork is in a rich, animated style (no surprise given Comtois' resume) with colors that perfectly compliment the moods of every scene.
As this first volume ends, the story has just begun. I look forward to reading more of Sunder.
What attracted me to this title was the cover; it has a very mid-80's independent vibe to it that made me very nostalgic.
This coming of age tale, with its cast of colorful characters, strikes the right balance of adventure and charm. The artwork is in a rich, animated style (no surprise given Comtois' resume) with colors that perfectly compliment the moods of every scene.
As this first volume ends, the story has just begun. I look forward to reading more of Sunder.
February 9, 2025
Do you love stories filled with adventure, prophecies, and characters who grow up in isolation only to step into the world and realize they might have taken on more than they can handle? If so, this book is for you!
It’s fascinating to see where this story goes, how the adventure unfolds, and how our main character navigates the challenges thrown their way. I’m excited to see how they grow and adapt to this new world they’ve been thrust into!
It’s fascinating to see where this story goes, how the adventure unfolds, and how our main character navigates the challenges thrown their way. I’m excited to see how they grow and adapt to this new world they’ve been thrust into!
May 8, 2025
This was awesome!
Review posted on social media for MadCave at @adamreadscomics.
Review posted on social media for MadCave at @adamreadscomics.
February 18, 2025
I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review. This in no way impacted my opinions.
‘Sunder, Vol 1’ is an exciting entry into the world of fantasy, offering a gripping plot, compelling characters, and an immersive setting that will appeal to fans of both epic fantasy and tabletop role-playing games. Comtois weaves a rich narrative that feels both grand in scope and deeply personal, making it a must-read for those who enjoy intricate world-building and dynamic storytelling.
Plot: ★★★★★
The story’s plot is a major highlight, filled with adventure, mystery, and high-stakes conflict. The pacing is well-balanced, keeping readers engaged with thrilling moments and deeper character-driven scenes. Whether you're drawn to epic battles, intrigue, or the magic-infused unknown, ‘Sunder, Vol 1’ delivers on all fronts.
Character: ★★★★☆
Comtois introduces a diverse cast of characters, each with their own unique motivations and personalities. While some stand out more than others, the overall character development is strong, and readers will find themselves invested in their journeys. The interplay between these characters adds depth to the narrative, making it more than just a quest-driven adventure.
Setting: ★★★★★
The world is richly detailed, with a lore that feels expansive yet accessible. The environments are vivid, from sprawling cities to untamed wilds, making the setting feel alive. The attention to detail in the world-building enhances the overall immersion, drawing readers deeper into the story.
Illustrations: ★★★★☆
The book features charming illustrations that add to its appeal. They are incredibly detailed, effectively capturing the essence of the characters and settings, and making the world feel even more immersive. The artwork complements the story without overshadowing it, enhancing the overall reading experience.
Engagement: ★★★★☆
While the book is engaging throughout, there are moments where the complexity of the world and its mechanics may require closer attention. However, for those who love fantasy with deep lore, this only adds to the appeal. The story keeps a solid momentum, and once you're hooked, it’s hard to put down.
Readability: ★★★★★
Comtois’ writing is clear and well-structured, making the book easy to follow without sacrificing depth. Whether you're a seasoned fantasy reader or new to the genre, Sunder, Vol 1 remains highly accessible while still offering rich storytelling.
Enjoyment: ★★★★☆
Overall, ‘Sunder, Vol 1’ is a fantastic read that brings a fresh yet familiar energy to the fantasy genre. Fans of classic fantasy sagas and TTRPG-inspired stories will find much to love here. While some elements could have been explored further, the book succeeds in creating an engaging and memorable experience.
‘Sunder, Vol 1’ is a stellar start to what promises to be an epic series. With its strong plot, immersive world, and well-crafted characters, it stands out as a must-read for fantasy lovers. Pierre-Alexandre Comtois has crafted a tale that feels both fresh and nostalgic, making it an excellent addition to any fantasy reader’s collection.
‘Sunder, Vol 1’ is an exciting entry into the world of fantasy, offering a gripping plot, compelling characters, and an immersive setting that will appeal to fans of both epic fantasy and tabletop role-playing games. Comtois weaves a rich narrative that feels both grand in scope and deeply personal, making it a must-read for those who enjoy intricate world-building and dynamic storytelling.
Plot: ★★★★★
The story’s plot is a major highlight, filled with adventure, mystery, and high-stakes conflict. The pacing is well-balanced, keeping readers engaged with thrilling moments and deeper character-driven scenes. Whether you're drawn to epic battles, intrigue, or the magic-infused unknown, ‘Sunder, Vol 1’ delivers on all fronts.
Character: ★★★★☆
Comtois introduces a diverse cast of characters, each with their own unique motivations and personalities. While some stand out more than others, the overall character development is strong, and readers will find themselves invested in their journeys. The interplay between these characters adds depth to the narrative, making it more than just a quest-driven adventure.
Setting: ★★★★★
The world is richly detailed, with a lore that feels expansive yet accessible. The environments are vivid, from sprawling cities to untamed wilds, making the setting feel alive. The attention to detail in the world-building enhances the overall immersion, drawing readers deeper into the story.
Illustrations: ★★★★☆
The book features charming illustrations that add to its appeal. They are incredibly detailed, effectively capturing the essence of the characters and settings, and making the world feel even more immersive. The artwork complements the story without overshadowing it, enhancing the overall reading experience.
Engagement: ★★★★☆
While the book is engaging throughout, there are moments where the complexity of the world and its mechanics may require closer attention. However, for those who love fantasy with deep lore, this only adds to the appeal. The story keeps a solid momentum, and once you're hooked, it’s hard to put down.
Readability: ★★★★★
Comtois’ writing is clear and well-structured, making the book easy to follow without sacrificing depth. Whether you're a seasoned fantasy reader or new to the genre, Sunder, Vol 1 remains highly accessible while still offering rich storytelling.
Enjoyment: ★★★★☆
Overall, ‘Sunder, Vol 1’ is a fantastic read that brings a fresh yet familiar energy to the fantasy genre. Fans of classic fantasy sagas and TTRPG-inspired stories will find much to love here. While some elements could have been explored further, the book succeeds in creating an engaging and memorable experience.
‘Sunder, Vol 1’ is a stellar start to what promises to be an epic series. With its strong plot, immersive world, and well-crafted characters, it stands out as a must-read for fantasy lovers. Pierre-Alexandre Comtois has crafted a tale that feels both fresh and nostalgic, making it an excellent addition to any fantasy reader’s collection.
May 8, 2025
An action-packed DnD adventure that actually has a lot going on, and, when looking back at the volume, has filled its pages quite some. Yet, while reading, feels like drinking your morning tea/coffee on the veranda and checking the newspaper. It is quite slow-paced. I personally don’t mind this at all, there are far too few slow life fantasy stories out there. And even though there is action and a few battle scenes, it’s not the main focus. Love some exploration first.
However, even though it is so slow-paced, which would serve as a perfect opportunity to fill the reader in on the different world, it stays very mysterious throughout the whole volume. Instead of giving some info, more and more plots and worlds and characters and the mysteries around them are thrown in.
On one hand, it shows us how our protagonist must feel like – he’s never been outside his little town after all. On the other hand, he does know at least a little about the world, such as whether there are humans or whether it’s a KFP-like world. Whether it even plays on earth. There’s interstellar travel and aliens after all.
I’m totally interested in continuing, also because Fantasy x Sci-Fi with a medieval setting and non-human characters is a neat combo. But I can see how too much mystery can throw some readers off. And as much as i like to play detective and uncover riddles myself, it wouldn’t have hurt to answer a few questions.
If not for the plot, a lot may want to read this for the art. It has a sketchy line style, but is very detailed. Perfectly fitting the DnD fantasy genre.
The protagonist is very cute and nice. Not your typical lead, even though he’s not a child. And by that I mostly mean he’s neither lusting after every body nor overpowered with a harem-to-come. Instead, he’s a bookish nerd who always wanted to go on an adventure but because he’s been kept closed off the world, he’s a bit naive. Similar to Disney’s Rapunzel, he’s also very helpful, prefers honesty and even though he attracts trouble by a mile, he’s quick at making friends. Which also comes from his good-hearted nature.
Definitely someone I’d like to follow.
~
Thank you to Mad Cave Studios on Netgalley for an eARC. The book is set to be released on May 6, 2025.
-Ayxan Solongo, 06.05.25
My main platforms: StoryGraph | Pending Plays | Instagram | YouTube
However, even though it is so slow-paced, which would serve as a perfect opportunity to fill the reader in on the different world, it stays very mysterious throughout the whole volume. Instead of giving some info, more and more plots and worlds and characters and the mysteries around them are thrown in.
On one hand, it shows us how our protagonist must feel like – he’s never been outside his little town after all. On the other hand, he does know at least a little about the world, such as whether there are humans or whether it’s a KFP-like world. Whether it even plays on earth. There’s interstellar travel and aliens after all.
I’m totally interested in continuing, also because Fantasy x Sci-Fi with a medieval setting and non-human characters is a neat combo. But I can see how too much mystery can throw some readers off. And as much as i like to play detective and uncover riddles myself, it wouldn’t have hurt to answer a few questions.
If not for the plot, a lot may want to read this for the art. It has a sketchy line style, but is very detailed. Perfectly fitting the DnD fantasy genre.
The protagonist is very cute and nice. Not your typical lead, even though he’s not a child. And by that I mostly mean he’s neither lusting after every body nor overpowered with a harem-to-come. Instead, he’s a bookish nerd who always wanted to go on an adventure but because he’s been kept closed off the world, he’s a bit naive. Similar to Disney’s Rapunzel, he’s also very helpful, prefers honesty and even though he attracts trouble by a mile, he’s quick at making friends. Which also comes from his good-hearted nature.
Definitely someone I’d like to follow.
~
Thank you to Mad Cave Studios on Netgalley for an eARC. The book is set to be released on May 6, 2025.
-Ayxan Solongo, 06.05.25
My main platforms: StoryGraph | Pending Plays | Instagram | YouTube
February 10, 2025
"Greatness from small beginnings.”
Little goat librarian, Zeek, always seems to be where he shouldn’t. Zeek yearns for the types of adventures that he reads in his books, but his father keeps him close. Yet Zeek always finds himself in situations where he helps others at the cost of his own peril. As Zeek saunters around the library of the monastery a book flies out at him. This is quite the conundrum because, “since when do books just fly off the…” shelf? He is finally given a chance by his Dad to find this weird book’s owner. Zeek finally has a chance to meet new companions, go new places, try new things, and have his own adventure.
From start to finish, the background, the characters, the artwork, the dialogue, absolutely everything was intriguing. I cannot wait for the next volume! This is worth the read!
#ThxNetGalley #Pierre-AlexanderComtois
Little goat librarian, Zeek, always seems to be where he shouldn’t. Zeek yearns for the types of adventures that he reads in his books, but his father keeps him close. Yet Zeek always finds himself in situations where he helps others at the cost of his own peril. As Zeek saunters around the library of the monastery a book flies out at him. This is quite the conundrum because, “since when do books just fly off the…” shelf? He is finally given a chance by his Dad to find this weird book’s owner. Zeek finally has a chance to meet new companions, go new places, try new things, and have his own adventure.
From start to finish, the background, the characters, the artwork, the dialogue, absolutely everything was intriguing. I cannot wait for the next volume! This is worth the read!
#ThxNetGalley #Pierre-AlexanderComtois
March 31, 2025
a fun story about an unsuspecting librarian in a monestary who gets roped up in something beyond his imagination.
i always like stories about the underdog, and this has a nice buildup for an interesting world. i'm actually intrigued to know more about that magical book and how it connects to the main character.
i always like stories about the underdog, and this has a nice buildup for an interesting world. i'm actually intrigued to know more about that magical book and how it connects to the main character.
March 28, 2025
3.5 stars rounded up!
I enjoyed this arc
The story was a great adventure! I’ll read the second part to find out how the story continues
A solid read with great graphics
I enjoyed this arc
The story was a great adventure! I’ll read the second part to find out how the story continues
A solid read with great graphics
November 25, 2025
Small beginnings is right, as a humble young monk finds himself plunged into an epic quest over the course of this science fantasy adventure!
Zeek has only ever known life at the monastery. For the most part, he enjoys his work of transcribing books, even if he'd much rather be having adventures than copying them down. While kind and generous, he can also default to acting first and thinking things through later.
When he finds a weird book in the library, he's literally stunned when it unexpectedly bonds with him. The Abbot is concerned, mostly because he knows this is probably the sign that he needs to let Zeek out into the wider world finally. Despite his misgivings, he tasks Zeek with finding out more about the book. There's an apothecary in a nearby town who might know someone who knows more. Zeek is nervous but excited to think that he'll finally be able to go forth on the adventure he's always wanted.
At first, things some easy enough, as any conflicts are easily resolved with conversation and a little ingenuity. But when actual criminals enter the picture, Zeek quickly finds himself out of his depth. Luckily, he has allies in his quest... or does he?
This is very much a gathering the party and starting the epic quest kind of story, with a healthy dose of background (mystery included) for the protagonist Zeek. It doesn't break into any new territory with its storytelling, but it's still solidly entertaining. It's a good springboard for the rest of the series, even if I do think it's too soon to decide how good this one volume actually is without the rest of the story it leads into. Also, as a puzzle nerd, I appreciated that the riddle towards the end was challenging enough for the typical speculative fiction fan to not immediately know the answer to.
The art is nicely done, even if I did have to backtrack several times to make sure I was interpreting the action correctly. Mark Englert's colors are lovely throughout, really bringing depth to Pierre-Alexander Comtois' linework. Overall, this is a very promising, if not necessarily outstanding, start to a series that blends fantasy with sci-fi. I look forward to seeing where it goes next.
Sunder, Tome One: Small Beginnings by Pierre-Alexandre Comtois, Mark Englert & Buddy Beaudoin was published May 6 2025 by Mad Cave Studios and is available from all good booksellers, including Bookshop!
This review originally appeared at TheFrumiousConsortium.net.
Zeek has only ever known life at the monastery. For the most part, he enjoys his work of transcribing books, even if he'd much rather be having adventures than copying them down. While kind and generous, he can also default to acting first and thinking things through later.
When he finds a weird book in the library, he's literally stunned when it unexpectedly bonds with him. The Abbot is concerned, mostly because he knows this is probably the sign that he needs to let Zeek out into the wider world finally. Despite his misgivings, he tasks Zeek with finding out more about the book. There's an apothecary in a nearby town who might know someone who knows more. Zeek is nervous but excited to think that he'll finally be able to go forth on the adventure he's always wanted.
At first, things some easy enough, as any conflicts are easily resolved with conversation and a little ingenuity. But when actual criminals enter the picture, Zeek quickly finds himself out of his depth. Luckily, he has allies in his quest... or does he?
This is very much a gathering the party and starting the epic quest kind of story, with a healthy dose of background (mystery included) for the protagonist Zeek. It doesn't break into any new territory with its storytelling, but it's still solidly entertaining. It's a good springboard for the rest of the series, even if I do think it's too soon to decide how good this one volume actually is without the rest of the story it leads into. Also, as a puzzle nerd, I appreciated that the riddle towards the end was challenging enough for the typical speculative fiction fan to not immediately know the answer to.
The art is nicely done, even if I did have to backtrack several times to make sure I was interpreting the action correctly. Mark Englert's colors are lovely throughout, really bringing depth to Pierre-Alexander Comtois' linework. Overall, this is a very promising, if not necessarily outstanding, start to a series that blends fantasy with sci-fi. I look forward to seeing where it goes next.
Sunder, Tome One: Small Beginnings by Pierre-Alexandre Comtois, Mark Englert & Buddy Beaudoin was published May 6 2025 by Mad Cave Studios and is available from all good booksellers, including Bookshop!
This review originally appeared at TheFrumiousConsortium.net.
August 18, 2025
“Greatness from small beginnings.”
Little goat librarian, Zeek, always seems to be where he shouldn’t. Zeek yearns for the types of adventures that he reads in his books, but his father keeps him close. Yet Zeek always finds himself in situations where he helps others at the cost of his own peril. As Zeek saunters around the library of the monastery a book flies out at him. This is quite the conundrum because, “since when do book just fly off the…” shelves? He is finally given a chance by his Dad to find this weird book’s owner. Zeek finally has a chance to meet new companions, go new places, try new things, and have his own adventure.
From start to finish, the background, the characters, the artwork, the dialogue, absolutely everything was intriguing. I cannot wait for the next volume! This is worth the read!
#ThxNetGalley #Pierre-AlexanderComtois #SunderVol1
Little goat librarian, Zeek, always seems to be where he shouldn’t. Zeek yearns for the types of adventures that he reads in his books, but his father keeps him close. Yet Zeek always finds himself in situations where he helps others at the cost of his own peril. As Zeek saunters around the library of the monastery a book flies out at him. This is quite the conundrum because, “since when do book just fly off the…” shelves? He is finally given a chance by his Dad to find this weird book’s owner. Zeek finally has a chance to meet new companions, go new places, try new things, and have his own adventure.
From start to finish, the background, the characters, the artwork, the dialogue, absolutely everything was intriguing. I cannot wait for the next volume! This is worth the read!
#ThxNetGalley #Pierre-AlexanderComtois #SunderVol1
February 2, 2026
I was very impressed with the detailed character art, settings/backgrounds, and the story development – very much a young apprentice sets out to a little bit of the world but it turns into a great adventure to (probably) save it. Looking forward to the next part of Zeek's journey as he continues to seek to deliver the book that found him to its supposed rightful owner.
July 2, 2025
This is a beautifully drawn and well-written quest book in the vein of Lord of the Rings meets Bone! I picked it up at ALA and was immediately struck by it and then I saw the ink-washed pages and was floored! Check out this gorgeous start to a series!
November 6, 2025
One of the best graphic novels I've read this year. I felt like I was watching an epic fantasy TV show while I was reading this. All of the characters stand out in their own unique way, and I cannot wait to read more of this story. I wish I had the next volume now.
May 31, 2025
Very interesting story, full of adventure. Good graphics.
For the rest of my review, visit my Vlog at:
https://youtube.com/shorts/IF7yc6WoLV...
Enjoy!
For the rest of my review, visit my Vlog at:
https://youtube.com/shorts/IF7yc6WoLV...
Enjoy!
July 23, 2025
Beautiful! Can’t wait for the next one!
October 2, 2025
It was cute! I’d happily read a second volume. Solid choice for someone who wants a sci-fi/fantasy graphic novel that isn’t graphic.
November 30, 2025
I’ll admit I’ve never read a graphic novel or comic before this. I think I’m hooked now! This was awesome. Can’t wait to see what happens next!
Want to read
December 13, 2025Note: I received a digital review copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley.
August 21, 2025
This is a vibrant and engaging entry into the fantasy graphic novel genre. The story follows Zeek, a young goat monk whose discovery of a mysterious magical book propels him into an epic quest.
The artwork is a standout feature, with colorful and expressive illustrations that bring the story to life. The animated style and rich color palette perfectly complement the narrative's moods.
Character development is another strength of this volume. Zeek's evolution from a humble librarian to an adventurer is compelling, and his interactions with companions add depth and humor to the story. The dynamics among the characters are well-crafted, making readers invested in their journeys.
The narrative pacing is well-balanced, maintaining engagement through a mix of action, mystery, and character-driven scenes. The plot's unfolding keeps readers intrigued, and the world-building is intricate yet accessible, appealing to fans of epic fantasy and tabletop role-playing games.
The volume concludes with the sense that the adventure is just beginning, so I am extremely excited to see where this story takes us!
The artwork is a standout feature, with colorful and expressive illustrations that bring the story to life. The animated style and rich color palette perfectly complement the narrative's moods.
Character development is another strength of this volume. Zeek's evolution from a humble librarian to an adventurer is compelling, and his interactions with companions add depth and humor to the story. The dynamics among the characters are well-crafted, making readers invested in their journeys.
The narrative pacing is well-balanced, maintaining engagement through a mix of action, mystery, and character-driven scenes. The plot's unfolding keeps readers intrigued, and the world-building is intricate yet accessible, appealing to fans of epic fantasy and tabletop role-playing games.
The volume concludes with the sense that the adventure is just beginning, so I am extremely excited to see where this story takes us!
Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews