Pondo’s Review: Always Raining Here by Hazel + Bell

Adrian is heartsick, Carter is horny.
This is a story about their misadventures as awkward teenagers as they fumble through unrequited romances.


I’m new to graphic novels and slowly falling in love with them. I’ve been aware of Always Raining Here for a few years now through a friend of mine, I even have the tote bag, but hadn’t gotten around to seeking out the print copies until I made the decision to publish reviews. I’m now the proud owner, and reader, of Volumes 1 & 2.

The title of this series is a wonderful connection to the hometown of the author & illustrator. Anyone from the same area will connect with it immediately – especially with our recent change in weather. I found the art style engaging and the chosen colours added to the tone of the story.

Adrian and Carter are the type of characters a reader can instantly become attached too. Everyone has had an awkward high school experience, and can relate to many of the trials faced by the duo. Unrequited affection, uncomfortable hormones, and academic pressures are all present for the reader to witness through the lense of two gay teen boys. As a straight female, it was fascinating to view the high school experience in this way.

Highly suggest for readers new to and more experienced with comics and graphic novels.

The comics are available to read online here

5/5