THE TIGER’S TONGUE #5, from Mad Cave Studios on November 23, 2022, ends the epic tale of two princesses chosen by destiny to lead their land into a new future.
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: November 23, 2022
Is It Good?
THE TIGER’S TONGUE #5 ends the series on a high note with big action, deep emotional moments, and a thought-provoking ending. This series sets the standard for myths and legends storytelling, giving readers something different outside typical superhero and supernatural fare.
Olivia Stephens delivers an excellent finale that brings all the conflict between Aridani and Kelindi to the head while throwing in a tragic twist that adds layers of heart and tragedy to the conclusion. (Read through to the next section for more details.) Stephens’ tale of two sisters affected by Fate, Prophecy, and Power works so well because when you strip away all the fantasy elements, the heart of the story is about two sisters struggling to be who they are for themselves and for each other. It’s a human story at its core, and Stephens pulls it off beautifully.
The plot centers around a last-ditch battle between Kelindi and her tentative alliance with the rebels against Aridani in her new role as an oppressive Queen. The plan is thought out well, the scale and scope of the battle feel massive, and the final moments of the battle are heartbreaking. Again, Stephens’s story excels because the human story shines through the flash and bombast.
Banton-Perry and Glendining’s art is serviceable enough in this issue. If there’s a weak spot in this series, it’s been the underdeveloped art style. Perspective shots are a constant sore spot, and the characters often look flat and unfinished in wide shots. Thankfully, Glendening’s coloring frequently elevates panels beyond the amateurish pencils/inks.
Keep scrolling for a closer look at the covers, or Click Here to jump right to the story description with some spoilers.
What’s It About?
[SPOILERS AHEAD – Click here if you just want the score without spoilers]
Check out our THE TIGER’S TONGUE #4 review to find out how Kelindi became an ally of the rebels against Aridani.
We begin with Kelingi making plans with the rebels to draw Aridani’s forces into the woods as a diversion while a second team storms the castle. In a quiet moment before the battle, Kelindi considers the bond with her sister and accepts she must break the bond to save the kingdom.
The battle begins. Kelingdi uses her flames to create chaos among the soldiers while the rebels strike down the stragglers. When Aridani realizes what’s happening, she seeks Klarion’s council because she believes the prophecy of a newer, better world is already complete. Klarion corrects her understanding.
We conclude the issue with a meeting between sisters who begin a newer, better world together.
Keep scrolling for a closer look at preview images of the internal pages, or Click Here to jump right to the score.
Final Thoughts
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THE TIGER’S TONGUE #5 ends the series with big battles and emotional gut punches for a satisfying conclusion. Stephens’s fable about two princesses is better than the sum of its parts because a human story lies at the heart of the magic and spectacle, and you get plenty of heart in this finale.
Related Information
What is stronger male lion or tiger?
Depending on your definition of “strength,” lions are more durable, but tigers strike harder and faster.
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