Quirky Cat's Fat Stacks

A Heroine in Her Own Right – Domino: Strays

Domino has long been a beloved mutant, a fact that seemed more accurate than ever after her appearance in Deadpool 2. She’s done everything from star in her series to running with several teams.

Now, she’s getting a novel. That’s right, Domino: Strays in no graphic novel. It’s a full-length novel focused on the one and only Domino. This is a tale of her past and present, her powers and their cost. It’s also a story of who she is and wants to be.

It all started with a case, as per usual. Infiltrate a cult and free two siblings before it is too late. Naturally, the job went sideways, and things got infinitely more complicated for Domino and her allies. At least this time around, she has allies.

Writing

Written by Tristan Palmgreen, Domino: Strays is a compelling read from start to finish. It’s a story perfect for longstanding character fans and welcoming a new audience. As such, it covers her backstory, bringing new details to light (to keep things fresh).

The story is told largely in three points of time. Her time as a childhood, her present, and a nebulous point in between tie everything together. It’s wonderfully done, bringing elements of her past into her present and turning it into a powerful story.

Domino is every bit the sassy merc that fans are hoping for. She doesn’t think twice about taking down the person before her, though she’s also gotten more stable over time, thanks to her friends and allies.

On that note, the novel does reference series and moments from Domino’s time in the comic book world. It ties everything together with a neat little bow, reminding us that her world is much larger.

Development

Thanks to the multiple timelines of this novel, Domino: Strays is an incredibly fast-paced read. Essentially, there’s always something going on within these pages. Be it a flashback full of angst and pain or Domino storming the castle (er, fortified building).

One thing that this novel does a wonderful job of; reminding readers that Domino is a human first and a merc second. She makes mistakes, and she learns from them. She acts like she doesn’t feel when the truth is anything but.

Likewise, the development (and experimentation surrounding) her powers is nicely done in this novel. Some parts were subtle, but honestly, that’s perfected and suited to Domino’s ability when you think about it.

The climax of Domino’s story is shockingly – and beautifully – emotional. It was powerful, brutal, and moving, all in one. Like Domino, the events in this novel are infinitely complex, with no right solution or answer.

Conclusion

Domino: Strays is worth the read, whether you’re a new fan or have been a fan for years. Her story is always worth diving into, though perhaps I’m biased, being one of those older fans. Regardless, the story that unfolds here is profound, full of action, sass, and best friends. Really, what more could you possibly ask for?

Also, here is a fun fact! Domino: Strays is the first of what will hopefully be many Marvel Heroines Novels. The next novel in the lineup is Rogue: Untouched, scheduled to release in early 2021. I also intend to review that novel, so be sure to check back.

This review was originally written for Word of the Nerd, but has been ported over to Quirky Cat’s Fat Stacks now that the site has shut down.

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