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John Connell has created a masterpiece. Moreover, he has created something new and exciting in the world of graphic novels. A rich and engrossing story coupled with lush illustrations, Carnal: Pride of the Lions is a well-oiled machine that feeds on readers emotions. It will leave you angry, teary-eyed, with knots in your stomach, and if you can get past all of those emotions and reach the final page, I guarantee it will leave you well satisfied and thirsty for more. What is Carnal exactly? Think of a cross between Planet of the Apes and Thundercats. It’s what you get when intelligent animals rule the world.

In Connell’s world, humans are the bottom of the food chain. Because of their greed, bloodlust, and their constant need for technological advancement (or magic), the world slowly began to unravel. Humans gave birth to animals that now have the ability to walk upright, talk, think as humans, and gain immense power. Animals currently rule the lands with an iron fist, driving humans to the brink of extension, back to a place where they are simple nomads fighting for their chance to survive. We have all heard these stories before, that technology will become our downfall. Yet if we were to think of it as what Connell has described in his graphic novel, I would suspect none of us are ready.

The story takes place in the vast Serengeti of Africa. A land once sacred to all mankind but has fallen into a constant state of unrest because of a growing rivalry between the three evolved dominant species of buffaloes, lions, and hyenas each with their own hidden agenda. After losing the Great War to the lions, hyenas have become cunning, ruthless creatures determined to wreak havoc on the mighty warriors who have sentenced them to a life below ground. And unbeknownst to the animals around them, the balance of power may soon shift in their favor.

Our main character is Oron. He is depicted as a ‘God like” lion, a savior or sorts, with unmatched strength, incredible height, and whose voice “thundered as deep as war drums”. Oron was sent by the tribal leader Long Eyes, along with two of his pride sister hunters, to find food for the pack in the forbidden hyena territory. Days go by without a word from Oron or the lionesses. Even worse, a mysterious old lion travels to the tribe and describes something deeply disturbing that happens to Oron and his pride sisters. Because of this, Long Eyes has to make a dangerous decision that will go on to affect his tribe for generations to come. And without giving too much of the plot away, I must say that the story of Oron will take a sharp turn that readers will never see coming. ( )

I must say this is absolutely amazing. The story a bit longer then I expected. It reminds me of a Native American telling a tale. It has that feel to it. Also I am reminded of Land of the Lost, but not as cheesy. The graphics are wonderful and without even looking at them you can picture it in your minds eye.
Occasionally the tenses get a little confusing. The only real problem I had with the book was wishing that my son was young enough so that I could read it to him and share the pictures. Not that ONLY 10-14 year old male children would be the only ones who would enjoy it. I am a 42 yr old female and I enjoyed it tremendously. The ending is a bit shocking and I found myself thinking "Hey what is up with guy authors!" Geez Did he take lessons from George Martin? LOL
I have told everyone I know about this, and will continue to spread the word until the next one comes along.
Please read the Blurb as I do not like to rewrite the story.
Enjoy ( )