A tale of loss and grief primarily that of a sibling though other famlies and situations come into this story in different ways. James, having lost a sibling, becomes increasingly drawn towards sightings of a black hound and through an elderly neighbour discovers how to see beyond the everyday, and to gradually explore historic sightings and events. This eventually leads to otherworldly paths as may be seen from the cover and description (no spoilers!).

Distinctive artwork and a story that meanders through different ways of telling. Engaging, interesting, though possibly overlong in aspects.

One technical note - I get that this is a copyright thing, but this is supposed to be a secure site. Having a publisher graphic plastered in the centre of every page, in some cases obscuring the entire dialogue, is not helpful.

Canadian author Norm Konyu tells a moving tale of loss, grief and discovery that seemlessly blends together the story of a family navigating the death of a child and sibling along with the stories of various houses and people in the neighbourhood. Part ghost story and part supernatural drama the story uses elements borrowed from the folklore of England , and more specifically the area around East Sussex that Norm Konyu has made his home.
Told in a naive illustration style that will appeal to all ages with a varied colour palette that greatly adds to The atmosphere of the story.

Downlands is an interesting and beautiful story about dealing with loss but also about the rich mythology and folklore of the British Isles. I adored everything about it. The art style gives a sense of whimsy and mysticism which I felt really set the tone for the comic. Our protagonist James is brilliant, I loved how we follow his journey not only through grief but embracing his ‘gift’ for looking to the spirits.

I adored the side stories within this exploring how the ghosts/Specters came to be. Konyu weaves a wonderful story that is full of rich folklore and memorable characters. While I did enjoy it all I have to say the final chapters really stood out, I loved the closure we got and the how it came full circle. I loved seeing James evolve as a person.

As always thank you to Titan Books for the advanced copy to review, my reviews are always honest and freely given.

James, embarks on journeys of mystery after his twin’s death, with the help of The Witch.
Very cool concept with a fresh take on the common tropes and concept.
Great side stories too.
I liked James and the W.
As for the art style, this is very personal - I assumed I would love it judging by the cover.
A little less layered for my tastes, but otherwise, wonderful graphic novel.

Review to come to my blog nearer to the release day (plus also on other places).

I received this book from the publisher/Netgalley in exchange of an honest review.

This year is really a spooky year for me, I am hunting for all the spooky books to read and I was delighted when I found this one. It looked and sounded super spooky and I was in for it. 

In this one we meet a boy named James. At the start of the book he and his twin sister Jen are getting some snacks after school when Jen encounters something, a black hound. Cue to some time later and Jen is dead and James is determined to figure things out. What is the black hound? What is happening in his town? Can he find Jen again? He finds out some details, meets an older lady next door who helps him out at points (and of course, like any older lady warns him for the dangers), and tries to deal with the grief and loss he feels over losing his twin sister. Things get quite spooky as the story progresses. But I love that despite all that James never gives up and keeps on going. He has a mission. 

But the side-stories is where the book really shines. Those were the ones I looked forward to the most. To see what happened in this town over the years. From a family that met a hitchhiking ghost and never got home, to a girl with a broken hoop, to a black hound, to a circle of stones. I wouldn't mind a whole book with just the side stories, just a book full of spooky folklore tales. Guess my next mission is to see if the author did anymore spooky things, who knows by the time this review pops up (writing this mid-April) I have found some great spooky reads~ 

And while I wasn't always a fan of the main story, I did appreciate that everything connected. What we see in the main story also appears in the side stories and vice versa, the side stories are also connected, there are hints everywhere and it is like a big puzzle just clicking together in the most satisfying way. 

I did love the ending, not just the ending to the story as it is with a new person chosen for that job, but also the part in which James is a grown-up. 

And as always, I do love extras at the end. The author/artist explains more about the folklore, the ideas he had, photographs and art, and more. Quite interesting to read! 

The art was really fun, I loved the style, very geometrical very fitting for the story! 

I would definitely recommend this one to everyone looking for a spooky read, this one would be perfect for Halloween!