{Book Review} Agent Gates and the Secret Adventures of Devonton Abbey

Authors: Camaren Subhiyah and Kyle Hilton

Genre: Humor, Graphic Novel
Published: January 1^st 2013
Publisher: Andrews McMeel Publishing
Pages: 128
Source: Purchased Paperback
Available at: Amazon | Barnes and Noble

Goodreads Summary:

The hit series Downton Abbey, upon which this parody graphic novel is based, has been nominated for 16 Emmy Awards in 2012, including an acting nomination for Brendan Coyle, who plays valet John Bates (a.k.a. Agent Gates). Our book will release in January 2013, in time for the premiere of season 3 in the U.S.While the Granville family dutifully entertain their guests at Devonton Abbey, an ace team of Secret Service agents camp out as unsuspecting household staff, protecting the Royal Crown and her citizens from impending world war.

Who is aware of the international intrigue concealed below stairs? Will Agent Gates save Britain from her enemies while ensuring Devonton Abbey’s reputation is upheld? Will Lady Margaret secure a proposal from Martin Crawhill, the heir to the estate? Will Thompson and O’Malley ever get lung cancer?

My Rating of this Book – 3 out of 5 stars

My Review:

I love Downton Abbey! I’m a big, die-hard fan. I also love a good laugh, which is good, because Agent Gates and the Secret adventures of Devonton Abbey is a well done combination of the two.

Now, honestly, not all the humor in this parody was exactly my cup of tea. The things that occur and personalities reflected in the characters upstairs is a bit too slap stick for my taste. And in some cases I think they are a little unfair to the actual characters on the TV series. However, some of the reflections hidden in the humor were actually insightful. Things I never considered about the characters or their role in the family.

The events and humor of downstairs, though, were much more to my liking. It was more quick witted and subtle jokes. I also loved the concept of Mr. Bates’ character being Agent Gates in the parody. It was fun to read, though I’ll admit, the whole world of supernatural secret agents confused me – especially the supernatural part. But it was slowly explained along the way, and I liked how Thompson and O’Malley played their roles as the antagonists of the plot.

All in all, this graphic novel was refreshing, and definitely an intriguing twist to one of my favorite TV series. I’m not really sure if I could recommend it, considering each fan of Downton Abbey would probably have different reactions to the humor, but if there is a sequel, I would definitely be interested in continuing the adventure.