Letters for Lucardo Vol. 2: Fortunate Beasts

Edward and his lover Lucardo return in the second volume of the graphic novel series Letters for Lucardo. For those of you who haven’t read the first graphic novel, see the quick summary below:

Ed and Lucardo find out they are attracted to each other one day, as Ed is writing letters. Their passion is interrupted, and they hastily break apart. As Ed and Lucardo become lovers, the only thing standing in their way is Lucardo’s father: a man who doesn’t like that his vampire son is dating someone who is beneath him in society. As a wealthy household, Lucardo’s father would rather Lucardo date someone worthy of his station.

Lucardo defends Ed, and continues to defy his father. The first novel ends with Ed leaving to find work as a scribe elsewhere, due to Lucardo’s father’s suggestion that he would be doing right by his lover.

Now, in Fortunate Beasts, Lucardo is furious that his father had Ed leave. He goes to find Ed, and when he does, he talks of marrying him. When Ed agrees, the two are overjoyed. At a formal party, Lucardo officially asks for Ed’s hand. They drink and enjoy themselves until late in the evening. The remainder of the graphic novel is spent in pre-married bliss, taking walks and enjoying each others company.

There’s a major spoiler that I’m avoiding for a reason, one that ends on a massive cliffhanger. So, I’m avoiding talking about a specific plot point.

I love Otava Heikkila’s drawing style. He creates such lush and interactive pages, ones that flow together beautifully. His artistry helps move the narrative along, just as the words helps build the story around the artwork. I love how he draws the sex scenes, which are erotic and tender at the same time. I love how he shows Lucardo and Ed’s relationship developing in the first and the second volume. I enjoy learning about the Night Court, and the vampires that have immortal lives, and how Ed fits into all of this somehow.

If you love vampires, love stories, and adventure, you definitely will love reading Letters for Lucardo. It’s a visual treat, as well as a well-written narrative.

I’m eager to read the next volume, because there was a massive spoiler. I cannot wait for the third volume of Letters for Lucardo.