Virtually Yours by Jeremy Holt could be a romance, but in the end it’s better. (that’s saying something, cause I love a good romance) The new graphic novel from ComiXology’s Originals is a interesting look into dating in the digital age. In this story you meet Eva who ends up moonlighting as Andy and Max, who goes by Adam. Together they navigate a ‘not-dating’ app and how that app changes their lives. The growth of the characters over the 112 pages is refreshing, and by the end you are absolutely shouting “bomb ass friends” with them.
Virtually Yours is an app to find a fake partner for people who need to get a parent off their back, and boy does Eva need that. Her mom is clearly of the mind that she should be married by now and when they butt heads enough times, Eva breaks. With her sister’s help she finds the perfect fake boyfriend. And then she meets Max. (it is really hard to gush about this story without giving all of it away).
Along with Max and Eva we get a glimpse into their friendships. Pat and Katie are great additions to the story, along with the other folks in the peripheral. Aside from the friendship and the possible romance, the best part of this story is how timely it is. There are themes about family and how it’s changing, fighting the patriarchy, abusive partners and fame. There really is a little bit of everything and it all flows so well that nothing seems out of place. The friendships are pretty magical and the LGBT representation is good. I always anticipate the cliches, but this story is good at giving you more than that.
I really can’t say enough good things about this GN. And I have to admit I was tickled pink at the easter egg I found right near the beginning. (good luck finding it!)
