[Review] Cry Out Loud by Tara O'Connor

Lofty thematic ambitions. This graphic novel explores the origin of banshees through a lens of desperate love and the struggle to break free from outdated social conventions.

Unfortunately, the execution didn't fully live up to the premise. The art is serviceable—more basic than stunning. And the pacing is often slow. However, my biggest issue was with historical inaccuracy that actively undermined the book's credibility. The story centers on a sapphic couple in the 1950s who are openly affectionate without facing any judgment. While I appreciate the positive representation, presenting this as a historical reality feels far-fetched and, however unintentionally, seems to erase the very real struggles queer people faced during that tumultuous era.

Ultimately, while the premise is interesting and its themes are important, the execution makes it a good, but not great, read.

Note: I received this book as an ARC. It is scheduled to be released September 16, 2025.

3 stars