Quince #13
Publisher: Fanbase Press
Creator: Sebastian Kadlecik
Writer: Kit Steinkellner
Artist: Emma Steinkellner
Review by Anelise Farris
The creative team behind Quince has continued to deliver solid issues, and I’m excited that Quince #13 (a perfect number for October) is clearly playing with horror elements. Just look at the cover: it’s a clear nod to Carrie and the prom.
As the issue starts, prom is going perfectly for Lupe and her love, Devin. However, superhero or not, things were bound to get less-than-perfect eventually. So shortly into the comic Lupe’s arch-nemesis shows up at prom, glowing green and all. Immediately Lupe curses herself for not listening to her Abuela and packing her superhero gear. But that doesn’t stop Lupe from taking on her opponent. She firmly feels that she has a fighting chance because she cares about protecting her friends more than the bad guy wants to take them out.
Unfortunately, there’s just one problem: Quince takes on her opponent sans costume. So, why is this a problem exactly? Well, just think about what kid at prom (or anywhere) isn’t eager to whip out their phone and record an interesting event. She begs those around her to keep her secret identity, well secret, so she doesn’t become a government project. So, will her classmates support her and delete their videos and photographs? Will Lupe manage to sneak out before the cops arrive? Well, you’ll just have to read this issue to find out!
Verdict: Buy it! Simple, effective writing and emotive art continue to make Quince a series I look forward to each month. Quince #13 continues to balance humor with plot progression, and, as Lupe reminds us, high school can be a horrific experience—October or not. Check out ComiXology on the 15th each month for new issues (available in both English and Spanish).