Virtually Yours

Virtually Yours is the 2022 romance comic by Jeremy Holt. It is most appropriate to review this comic on Valentine's Day. This edition collects all 5 releases of the Comixology Original comic. Written by Jeremy Holt and illustrated by Elizabeth Beals the story grew from the isolation of the COVID-19 pandemic shut-down and the increased prevalence of the digital age. It's a story written with the young generation in mind.

The publisher's summary:

Welcome to Virtually Yours, a virtual dating app that provides all the proof of being in a relationship without actually being in one.

With her career front of mind, Eva Estrella joins Virtually Yours, after a nudge from her sister, to alleviate some family pressure as she continues to look for her dream job in journalism. While Max Kittridge, a former child star in the middle of a divorce, takes a gig at Virtually Yours servicing multiple clients as a fake boyfriend. As they navigate their current circumstances, both Eva and Max find that sometimes what you're looking for is right in front of you.

Virtually Yours is a rom-com for the digital age from writer Jeremy Holt and artist Elizabeth Beals. This exciting new collaboration includes letterer Adam Wollet, book designer Tim Daniel, and editor Kat Vendetti. Together, they present a refreshing take on a beloved genre that will appeal to anyone familiar with love in the time of the internet.

The story is a fun read. It is fast paced with colorful artwork done in traditional comic strip panels. One thing I love about the artwork is the chubby Eva and her thick thighs. Yes, I too have chubby thighs but it is rare to see woman portrayed in true size in the comic world. I also think the portrayal of African American men with modern hair styles is sublime. In addition, purple is one of my favorite colors so the color palette instantly attracted me to the book. 

As I stated above, Virtually Yours is a light-hearted fun read. The digital dating aspect of the plot brings modernity to the romance genre. It was amazing to watch the characters Eva and Max figure out what their feeling were for each other. Eva is an open book. What you see is what you get. She is bubbly to a fault but with a sarcastic point of view. Max, on the other hand, is reserved and quiet. These two opposites attract big time.

I enjoyed reading the comic so much that I wish the story was longer. Perhaps a sequel should be written. It would be fascinating to see how Eva and Max's relationship unfolds. Then maybe a wedding sequel? Jeremy Holt please take note.

5 out of 5 stars.