12 Reasons Why I Love Her

Gwen and Evan meet at a sold-out premiere of an indie art film. Their romance starts out disastrously, but both feel a spark of something they're unwilling to let go of. So far the synopsis is no different from dozens of other romantic comedies, but instead of following the formula, Rich and Jones tell the story of the romance in 12 out-of-order snapshots. Some focus on the pivotal moments of their relationship—the first date, the first argument—others on the quiet connections that keep them together. The art's bold lines always draw attention to the emotions, setting the characters sometimes in detailed New York scenery, sometimes against stark black and white backgrounds. Some chapters use softer, full-page drawings to stop time entirely and focus on Gwen as seen through Evan's eyes. The nonlinear structure is diverting, but it imposes a sentimental nostalgia onto a story without enough meat to support it. Before the moments of real drama can be fully explored, the story jumps to a completely different time period. This graphic novel is a sweet little nugget of romance, but there isn't quite enough development for it to be satisfying. (Nov.)