THE BLOOD QUEEN #1 Review


Is this a #1 that deserves a spot on your pull-list? Read on to find out.

The official description from Dynamite:

A new dark fantasy epic begins here! In a fairy tale land of knights and magic, a royal child’s life hangs in the balance. Summoned to save the princess, a young woman of untold power begins a journey that will uncover secrets, reveal forbidden desires and stoke the fires of war! The reign in blood is about to be born! Inspired by the nightmares of your youth and the notorious Countess Elizabeth Bathory, THE BLOOD QUEEN comes from writer Troy Brownfield!

Blood Queen 1_Variant CoverI’m going to freely admit that with this creative team at its back it didn’t take much time for me to decide that I’d cover this series for UTF. What we get from the opening moments to the closing sequence is a tale that, on the surface, might feel a bit familiar but gives enough of itself to craft its own vision while building a sturdy foundation for a new franchise.

Troy Brownfield pens the script and a seasoned scribe that’s already quite familiar with tales of mysticism is quite at home within the confines of this narrative. He designs a woman with deep secrets and blood magic surrounding her actions. And despite some stiff moments with the dialogue the journey flowed smoothly in ways that made me instantly eager for the rest of the volume. Political intrigue and a striking tone deliver a satisfying cliffhanger that warrants praise. In other words the reign of the Blood Queen is beginning and your attention is assuredly demanded. Don’t you dare deny this royal invitation.

If the text impresses than the art by Fritz Casas amplifies that feeling ten fold. The illustrator perfectly represents the literature by giving detailed representations combined with a distinct vision that knows its own limitations. There was just one panel early on that bothered me but truth be told it was quick and inconsequential as the greatness of the remaining displayed overshadowed it. Add in the dynamic colors crafted by Mark Roberts and Kirsty Swan and we have something special that screams for a purchase.

The Blood Queen #1 is a comic that despite some minor scuffs soars high. The creative team delivers an opening issue that without a doubt carries a lot of interest and deserves to generate tremendous buzz because this one comes highly recommended.

OUR RATING
9.5
  • + This casts a strong introduction for the Blood Queen.
  • Troy Brownfield builds a worthwhile book.
  • + The art by Fritz Casas is simply awesome.
  • - I have to wait 30 days for the next one...

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