I have read a few recently both in Manga and graphic novels. I also bought a few collector's comics of late but haven't read them yet. The manga books, my first, were Tokyopops 'Priest' by Min-Woo Hyung which is terrific . I read vol 4 which is like the introduction so it is a bit early to ay how good the story will be. But is is certainly promising the premise and the subplots to date have got my interest and I can't wait for vol 5. I am puzzled though if Vol 4 is the intro what are vols 1-3 about?
I also read 'Fake' vol 1 recently by Sanami Matoh about two cops in New York City. It is also out in Tokypop. Loved the main characters Ryo and Dee they are great fun. There are elements of Yaoi [not too explicit but still for more mature audiences], in this however so it may not be everyone's cup of tea. Watched the DVD too it is based on Vol 2 and its very good - set in England where the guys are on holiday. Can't wait for vol 3.
Another one I read recently is 'Iriacynthe' by J.C. Servais a Dutch illustrator writer. Its Illustrations are really superb. However elements of the story and some of the contents left me a little uneasy. Anybody else read his books?
I am half way through Anne Rice's ;The Body Thief.' I adored the way 'The Vampie Lestat' was transformed into a graphic novel and 'The Body Thief' is brilliant too. really enjoying it
I have Neil Gaiman's 'Sandman: The Dream Huners' lined up to read as my next treat and then Michael Moorcock's 'Eldric of Melnibone.'
I have only started reading manga recently and only started watching anime last year. I have always loved books, my library has taken over my home, but hadn't opened a graphic novel or comic in years. I am thoroughly enjoying them again. Some take me back to my childhood while others with more mature content are enhanced by the atmosphere the illustrations evoke.
tsuzuki