THE TIGER’S TONGUE #3, from Mad Cave Studios on September 21st, 2022, sows the seeds of doubt and division as the tournament between Kelindi and Aridani shows a different side to the sisters when power is at stake.
The Details
- Written by: Olivia Stephens
- Art by: Diansakhu Banton-Perry, Bex Glendining
- Colors by: Bex Glendining
- Letters by: Joamette Gil
- Cover art by: Odera Igbokwe
- Cover price: $3.99
- Release date: September 21, 2022
Is It Good?
THE TIGER’S TONGUE #3 escalates the complexity of a story about rival princesses vying for one throne. In the first issue, submissive Aridani showed no interest or ambition for the throne. Now that she’s received a taste of power from supernatural forces, the choice for Queen is no longer so obvious.
Stephens is turning out a rich, compelling story about the nature of power. The story is rich because conflict heats up in multiple arenas – in the challenge between princesses and the blossoming civil strife between the Tiger’s people and the River’s people. Both conflicts work together to compound the atmosphere of tensions spiraling out of control, and the lack of clear outcomes will keep readers enthralled until the last page.
What’s more interesting about this issue is the turn in personalities between Kalindi and Aridani. Power and public opinions play an increasing role in how the sisters see each other and themselves. As the tournament for the crown progresses, each sister reacts to the competing pressures in unexpected ways. Originally, the outcome of the tournament and the good of that outcome was obvious. Now, it’s unclear who will win and what victory will mean for the country. Again, the story succeeds because the rich, complex narrative keeps you guessing.
The art, however, is serviceable at best. Character designs are sufficient but basic. If it wasn’t for differences in hair colors and styles, several characters would look identical. What little action there is looks flat and lacks energy. That said, the coloring is very good and adds depth where the pencils/inks fall short.
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What’s It About?
[SPOILERS AHEAD – Click here if you just want the score without spoilers]
Find out who won the first round of the tournament in our THE TIGER’S TONGUE #2 review.
We begin with Kalindi secretly meeting her friend, Skal, to discuss what happened in the tournament. Kalindi is just as concerned about the reaction of the crowd to her sister as she is about who wins or loses. Regardless of the outcome, Kalindi believes the people love her sister more. Soon, Kalindi and Skal stumble upon a protest by the River’s People over their oppression by the King and the Tiger’s People. Kalindi witnesses firsthand how harsh that oppression can be.
Later, Aridani displays new confidence after receiving the gift of magic from the spirit of her mother. The gift changed Aridani’s eyes and her temperament. She no longer acts like the submissive sister unconcerned with power, and her father notices the change with concern.
We conclude the issue with the next test, a powerful outcome, and the hint of a lie.
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Final Thoughts
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THE TIGER’S TONGUE #3 is a richly compelling issue, filled with layers of complexity and conflict. The sisters evolve as pressures mount from within and without, and the simmering socio-political strife casts a pall of tension on every scene. The art, however, lacks detail and refinement.
Related Information
Why are tigers under threat?
Tiger meat, organs, and fur are considered highly prized items in several black markets. Some believe tiger organs contain special medicinal properties, while tiger teeth, claws and fur are valued for their aesthetic value.
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