The powerful relaunch of this icon continues here, but is it truly worthy of praise? Read on to find out.

The official description from Dynamite:

Red Sonja is just inches from death, when voices from the past call her away from digging her own grave, to fight possibly the last battle of her life, against the woman who taught her everything she knows about combat! With special variant cover by guest-star Ming Doyle!

The creative team brings yet another sterling entry to this property, as the narrative barrels forth.   The plagues born from her past and a current literal disease ravage the She-Devil with a Sword, and at her weakest she’s forced to confront her fate.  It’s an issue that will leave fans begging for the next release in what has quickly become a memorable volume.

Gail Simone pens the script and the scribe continues to prove her awareness of the main character.  What that means is, the author from the first page to the final syllable understands the innate motivations and given the complexities of this situation justifies her decisions in a way that feels organic.  The side characters continue to play an important role as the terror of Anissa overcomes a town full of innocent bystanders. The key to the arc is that it can be said that Red Sonja owes them nothing, but those who have read her exploits understand how she is when it comes to the debt of former allies.

The art by Walter Geovani is expertly crafted, as the talent offers subtle details to a property that has seen many renditions over the years.  What will draw people in is the subtle nuances of the panel designs that will literally leave you stunned at the hyper realism.  When you stop and stare into the eyes of an illustrated face which carries the unmistakable spark of life, it leaves little room for doubt.  Simply put: there’s a kinetic feel to this side of the journey.

Red Sonja #4 is a comic that impresses from beginning to end.  It easily earns praise as it comes highly recommended.

4.5/5