On the surface, this book may seem a lot like Oni's highly acclaimed and successful Scott Pilgrim series of graphic novels, but Rich's script and characters are far more grounded and accessible. Mind you, this comes from a critic whose reactions to the first volume of Bryan Lee O'Malley's Pilgrim, though positive, wasn't nearly as exultant as other industry reviews (and readers' reactions as well, judging from the property's success). In any case, Love the Way You Love is, above all else, about Love at First Sight. Its appeal may depend on one's ability to buy into such a concept... or it may be so well communicated here that it could convert even the most cynical readers.
Tristan Scott is a lover, not a fighter. A recent breakup sends him reeling, and he takes off to gather himself. There's just one problem: he's the lead singer of an up-and-coming Los Angeles band, and their music career has stalled in his absence. But Tristan's back, just in time for an important gig. A record exec is in the crowd, and he's ready to turn his band, Like a Dog, into the next big thing. There's just one problem: Tristan and the exec's girlfriend fall for each other the moment they lay eyes on one another. Tristan is a lover, but he's going to have to fight for this woman.
Ellerby's style is difficult to describe. It has that indy, underground American look to it, but there's a hint of Japanese influence in his work as well. His character designs are simple; some might even describe his style as crude. But the designs are distinctive and effective. One really gets a sense of who the characters are from how they are shaped and dressed, and how they move. The exaggerated tone of the artwork maintains a playfulness throughout the book. Though ultimately this is a somewhat dramatic love story, one never gets the sense from the visuals that one should take things too seriously.
That's in keeping with Rich's script and characterizations. There is some tension that's meant to be taken somewhat seriously, but I'm not referring to the rivalry between Tristan and the pompous record exec. No, it's Tristan's bandmates' reaction to his decisions, sans consultation, that's far more interesting. Rich's script introduces the cast of characters clearly without being overt in its expositional aims.
What makes this such an engaging read is how quickly and effectively Rich gets his audience to believe in the instant connection between Tristan and Isobel. Love at first sight isn't the easiest thing to sell, and certainly not without allowing the reader to get the know the characters well. But long before we get to know these two at all, Rich and his artistic collaborator gets the reader on board. And it's a good feeling to believe in something as intense as that, and that feeling stays with the reader throughout the book. 9/10
