Jam-packed with elements of fantasy, twisted fates, and an uncanny, but cliché romance set in the city where dreams can come true, Mike Richardson’s expressive writing is balanced smoothly with Paul Chadwick’s attractive drawing style in this eccentric story of the power of magic and destiny.
The illustrations in Best Wishes are drawn in a classic comic book style portraying a retro, old-fashion feel. The lack of color choice with the black and white design was an interesting choice. Readers can appreciate the simplicity of the illustrations without flashy colors and are able to focus on the storyline. The drawings provide personality towards the characters in a way where pictures alone can tell the story alone.
Taking place in New York City the details and specifics of New York City is a strong point in the design style. Landmarks like the Brooklyn Bridge and Times Square are clean-cut and sharp. Although, it provided a depiction of the city that is ripped straight out of every movie scene that takes place in New York. New York has been represented plenty of times and it always turns out the same, the place where skyscrapers and Times Square exist.
It is quick to assume by the title and the front cover that this magical fountain should be the main focal point of the story. Best Wishes brings two complete strangers together and grants their wishes in a usual matter. However, the idea of a magic fountain wasn’t used to its entirety and instead of providing further context to the reader, it falls flat.
The theme of how our fate can accidentally intertwine with another was emphasized through the elements of fantasy. It is humorous and wacky enough where one can chuckle at its uniqueness.
Our main characters, Mary and Cal are easy to grow attached to. They have struggles and faults that readers can feel comfortable diving into their story. It illustrates a humanistic element to their personality and makes readers believe that they are more than just characters.
The romance was slow buildup increasing the chance of a satisfying finale. Sprinkling the tough life of having a high position in the big city gave it a sense of realism and relatability. It is clear the romance between the two leads isn’t the main focal point and isn’t meant to be taken too seriously.
The use of hyperbolism was intertwined with the comedic timing successfully, and gives an essence of a wacky romantic comedy like “The Proposal.†Where the two “romantic†leads are pushed together in a work setting and sparks are meant to fly. Unfortunately, clichés were involved numerous times which will only bother people who hate on “chick flicks.”
The romance was a bit bland and generic. The slow building relationship did give potential to their romance, but the relationship was too slow that it is almost nonexistent. In Best Wishes, the element of magic taking play in a modern day is society is an interesting twist, but the fantasy angle is barely touched upon. However, the flow of the story proved this wasn’t meant to be the love we strive for, but how fate can bring people together.
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