Last Reign

Gr 9 Up—In a postapocalyptic America that has reverted to a kind of feudalism, benevolent and brave Lord Darius protects his people from the monstrous mutants of the "wastes"—the dangerous and radioactive lands that the evil Sinclairian Empire controls. When he resists the Empire's demand for human captives and his only son is killed, Darius must journey to the "Land of Kings"—a ruined city rumored to be the home of the land's ancient leaders—to learn the secrets of his powerful suit of armor. But time is running out, and Darius must end his fellow Lords' disputes, teach them the secrets of their own enchanted armor, and lead them against the Empire before it's too late. Somewhat hamstrung by corny dialogue, cardboard characters, and a shopworn plot, Last Reign is definitely enjoyable in a pulpy, macho, "Golden Age of Comics" sort of way. The art is bold, fight scenes are well-rendered and thrilling, and the blend of fantasy and sci-fi gives this somewhat clichéd work a unique twist. Suitable for collections in need of brawny, he-man action.—Dave Inabnitt, Brooklyn Public Library, NY