Umbral #6 Review

How will the first arc of Umbral come to an end? Read on to find out.

The official description from Image:

“CHASING SHADOWS” THE CONCLUSION TO BOOK ONE! Rascal runs from the Redguard’s clutches—but it will cost her more than she can imagine! Where can she go? Who can she trust? Are you sure? Because nothing seems certain any more. And by the end of this issue, nobody will be above suspicion!

The first arc of Umbral finally comes to an end, and boy does it do so in a magnificent way. Over the course of this first story I have had mixed opinions on Umbral as though overall it’s been fairly positive there have been times when I’ve questioned where the series was heading. Gladly however it ends in a clever and intriguing fashion that gives clarity to this first part whilst also leaving the door open for more.

Antony Johnston has done a fantastic job of brining the first arc to a close with it being both exciting and intriguing. It’s never easy with an ongoing creator owned series to end an arc as you have to produce something that works as a stop gap whilst also making it entertaining that doesn’t ruin the story going forward. Johnston manages to pull this off as with the brilliant dialogue and exhilarating action it manages to be very entertaining. I also loved how it ended on a somewhat sombre not that teases the future of the series big time.

Christopher Mitten has produced astonishing artwork throughout this series and continues to do so here. He’s managed to capture the fantasy/magic aspect of this series perfectly with his rough style giving the appropriate tone and look. His layouts also help give more oomph and with the character expressions it adds to the overall tension and emotion throughout. Jordan Boyd also yet again delivers outstanding colours that give a fitting finish to Mitten’ fabulous art.

Umbral‘s first arc has ended and it’s done so on a high. It’s been a great ride and though we have a couple of months to wait for the next arc to start at least we now have the entire first arc to read whilst waiting. Highly recommended.