Girl Genius Vol 3: Agatha Heterodyne and the Monster Engine

Girl Genius Vol 3: Agatha Heterodyne and the Monster Engine (2004) Phil & Kaja Foglio

Now that Agatha is settling into Castle Wulfenbach, she is beginning to come to terms with her abilities. Now, she must learn about her heritage, and how her skills and her family’s past will change her life. We also see Agatha slowly starting to fall for Gil, despite her initial apprehensions, primarily because he allows her to do what she really wants: build clanks.

In Volume 3, the story starts to become even more complex. Agatha’s powers are developing, and events around her are taking off, including what is really up with Othar Tryggvassen, her relationship with Gil, the fate of the Hive Engine, and the power of Revenants.

One of the things I particularly like is that it Baron Wulfenbach remains a complex character. Although we learn a great deal about him in this volume, but it is still unclear whether he is good or evil. His motivations remain unclear and his actions are confusing. I really like that. He is definitely an “ends justify the means” kinda guy, and although I soundly disagree with that, I can understand it.

I also like that Agatha was mostly clothed through this volume.

The other thing I like is that there are subtle hints as to things that are going on, many of which I missed reading the comic on-line or because I tend to focus on the words and not the artwork. I’m also very curious as to what is really going on with Agatha, and how she is going to get herself and her new friends out of the situation into which they have gotten themselves.

And now I am eagerly awaiting the arrival of volumes 4, 5 and 6, so I can continue the story. Of course, once I finish six, I’ll have to wait awhile, since that’s the last published volume.

Maybe I’d better read more slowly.

If you’re lucking for a series that’s fun and entertaining, then you should check out Agatha Heterodyne. There is a brief synopsis at the start of each volume, so you can come in anywhere to figure out what’s going on. But of course I always think it’s best to start at the beginning.
Rating: 8/10

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