Rarity takes center stage in the latest issue of the My Little Pony Micro-Series. Do we have another engaging character story? With the creative team of Katie Cook and Andy Price, what do you think?

Here’s the official description from IDW:

Rarity is in need of some well-deserved R & R after working hard on her new fashion line. A sweet spa retreat turns sour when Rarity learns that the establishment is a little too ‘down to earth’! How will this resourceful pony make the best out of this ‘rustic’ situation? Read on to find out!

It could be said that Rarity is the most underrated of the Mane 6. Out of all the Ponies she might be the least popular. I personally think she’s great, she’s a real ‘character’ in every sense of the word. This issue has her in a very uncomfortable setting, well for her anyway. She represents the element of generosity, but can she display that while being treated to mud baths and history on soy? It’s a really fun issue that feels like a full length episode with plenty of cool fan service.

Katie Cook was the writer of the first arc of the Ongoing, so to see her tackle a Micro-Series comic would be a treat. This issue shows us how well she knows the characters, I have yet to see any writer with such a firm grasp on how the characters are. You really hear the voices in your head as you read. The opening segment is a pretty awesome setup, having all of the Ponies together. I was half worried that it would be less Rarity-centric, but those fears are laid to rest when she hops on the cart. She is then placed in ‘Flax & Wheat’s New Age All-Natural Wellness Center,’ a relaxing place recommended by Applejack. Things aren’t what they seem however, the ‘twist’ is unexpected and despite everything Rarity proves she’s the most generous of ponies. The comic does a fine showing that, something Season 3 of the cartoon didn’t show too well. *Dodges thrown tomato.* Before going on to the art, it’s important to mention all the wonderful fan service. The part where Pinkie Pie shouts, “Don’t forget to write!” to Rarity while looking angrily at Rainbow Dash is a reference to ‘Wonderbolts Academy.’ It’ll fly past new readers, but for longtime fans it’s pretty awesome. Then there’s the cameos, such as Lyra, DJ Pon-3, even Trixie is in there. (And look out for the mail-pony herself!) It was also clever to have Photo Finish and Hoity Toity together, this comic is one the fandom is going to get a blast out of.

Now, for the art. Along with Cook from the Ongoing, Andy Price reprises his role. It’s the same style, which is great in itself. The facial expressions are priceless, it successfully captures Rarity’s rolling-eyes-at-the-ridiculousness-of-it-all attitude that no other art would be able to capture. You can always expect something good with MLP covers, this is no different. The main one showcases our favorite unicorn in a stylish dress, a very solid one. Cover B is more artistic, with a more salsa vibe. Both are different and good in their own rights. The RI continues the tradition of having the title character as a filly, it’s cute. As for store exclusives, look no further than Double Nights’ extremely artistic one, it’s really the only standout.

Overall, this is definitely the best Micro-Series issue yet. Rarity might not be the fan favorite Pony, but I can guarantee you’ll have a deeper appreciation for her after reading this comic. The writing is top notch and the art is always a blast to look at. Let’s not forget to mention all the wonderful references and cameos for fans to see.

4.5/5

My name is Daniel (@Destroyer_199), the main guy for comic reviews here at Unleash the Fanboy. I was born in 1995 in the Big Apple, spent my formative years in Staten Island, and currently reside in the awesome state that is New Jersey.