After galloping through the first two volumes of Ms. Marvel, I was eager to dive into the third. Oh, man, Crushed is so good. It’s easily my second-favorite series after Saga (because nothing is going to top Saga anytime soon, let’s be honest). I’ve been really excited by the way G. Willow Wilson unpacks Kamala Khan as both teenaged girl and superhero, and this volume strikes that balance especially well in Volume 3.
Kamala is paid a visit by Loki, who wants to know a secret and spikes the high school punch with a truth potion in an attempt to get it—at the Valentine’s Day dance. So much drama ensues. To add to it, Bruno wants to ask Kamala out, but she’s being dense and not giving him an opportunity to share his feelings. And then, Kamran, a family friend’s son, rolls into town. Kamala, having thought she would hate a friend her parents approve of, suddenly finds herself head over heels. And love can be the most dangerous feeling of all.
This entry in the Ms. Marvel series is fantastic, because it proficiently balances fun, family, and responsibility. Kamala is, as always, torn between her home life, school life, and superhero life, and the art brings her many emotions to life. We see Kamala starting to mature while still remaining a teenager in high school. I think it’s this unique voice that makes her more than just “another” superhero for me. You’ll want to read the first two volumes first, because this entry builds on established storylines and relationships. But trust me, you won’t regret it!
Cross-posted on my blog.
I loved this one too! I have the latest at home waiting for me to start reading.