Part two of True Blood’s “Here We Go Again” story arc titled “She’s Not There” picks-up after Sam killed the crazy old woman who attempted to put a curse on Merlotte’s last issue and two new characters are back, one from the dead and one into the light.

Official description from IDW:

The sensually sizzling story of the lives and loves of vampires, mind readers, and all manner of creatures, continues!

Mystery is the main course for True Blood twelve and the stakes continue to get higher. The book starts off with the return of Daphne from the dead and trying to convince Sam it’s really her. He’s not even remotely convinced and backs up his doubt behind the barrel of a gun. Daphne is determined and goes to see Sookie who reads her mind and knows, at the very least, this woman believes she is Daphne and maybe Sookie does too. But Sam has proof for his doubt and before he gets rid of this imposter you’ll doubt it as well.

Writer Michael McMillian definitely keeps you guessing with this issue. Along with Daphne, McMillian has Amy reappear to Jason in the daylight and make the most of Amy not bursting into flames with a little afternoon delight. Again, a mystery, but some fun and levity among all the drama. One moment I wish was expounded upon more was the story of Katie, introduced last issue, and her plans for her hostage. It was only a couple of pages and I would have liked to seen more.

Beni Lobel keeps the mood and tone with an overabundance of darks and blacks. The color palette’s muted tones could use a splash more color from time to time but that’s a tough chore in the deep swamps of Bon Temps, Louisiana. McMillian does a very nice job with True Blood and it is an adaptation that continues to grow on me. I start to wonder what I’ve been missing on TV all these years, good books will do that and for that I’m thankful. If you are a fan of the show it would be in your best interest to read this comic as well.

4/5