Getting a webcomic reviewed is more difficult than I would have imagined. I even made a preview website with the entire story, so reviewers could read the whole thing before making a judgement.
When I think about it, though, it makes sense that it’s hard: There are tens of thousands of webcomics out there, and precious few reviewers. I sent requests to a lot of reviewers asking them to consider critiquing “Hereville,” but until today, no dice. (I’m still hoping, though.)
Which brings me to some news: Deniselle of A Blog About Comics has posted a review of “Hereville” — the very first review of the complete “How Mirka Got Her Sword” story that’s ever been published. I’m feeling a bit gushy about that.
And it’s a positive review (phew!), fairly lengthy with some interesting analysis. Deniselle read a preview copy of the whole first story, so she’s read some stuff regular “Hereville” readers haven’t seen yet, but don’t worry, she was careful to avoid spoilers.
Mirka’s fixation with being a dragon-slayer is unexplained, which is interesting. It seems to arise from her personality, not be some fate cast upon her (Lord of the Rings style) nor a burden she has to come to terms with. She wants to be a dragon slayer because it’s who she is. Whether or not she’s meant to slay dragons is interestingly ambiguous.
Please head on over to Deniselle’s blog to read the whole thing. :-)
Congrats! You deserve good press.
Have you tried submitting to Fleen? They don’t go in for full-length reviews as a rule, but are always interested in hearing about anything new, and the fact that you’re now printed should provide a good hook. In addition, their readership is heavily dominated by the webcomics cognoscenti, and it’s a good way of getting the word out.
Thanks for the suggestion — they did mention that I had restarted “Hereville.” I’ll send them a press release in a week or so announcing that the printed “Hereville” comic will premiere at Stumptown.
Honestly, I eventually just spent some money on Project Wonderful ads; if I can’t come by readers honestly, I’ll buy them!
Awesome review, Barry! Congrats :)
Congratulations!
Hey, congrats! I especially like this part: “I’ve been struggling with the fact that, like with What I Drew, I really have nothing negative to say. Is it a critique if I can’t really criticize? On the other hand, the comic is awesome…” and I think your feeling gushy is well deserved ;)