The covers: Jesse is being lead forward by Kyle and she doesn’t look too pleased about where they are heading. The background they’re running on looks like a forest, but pulling back from the image, one can see that the pair are actually within the head of a predator, it’s teeth evident at Jesse’s feet. Since the premise of the series is animals have awakened to have equal footing with humanity, this is a nice reminder that humans are on the run to keep themselves safe. Good action poses for both characters and nice imagery. There are two different versions of the cover, one with the background in red and another where it’s blue. Rafael de Latorre with Marcelo Maiolo have made both covers look good. Overall grades: Both A
The story: The next morning, after the previous issue’s theological discussion, Bethesda sees a rainbow and is inspired to sing. Two other animals greet her and Pallas and God is again brought up as others rise. Breakfast is eaten and soon they’re back on their way, Sandor saying, “California ain’t gettin’ any closer.” On the road, Zarza walks besides Jesse, stating that he’s heard from Sandor that she would like to learn Spanish. When she learns that fuego means fire, she notices smoke in the distance and realizes that there’s a fire nearby. The group races to the source and is surprised at what they see. Writer Marguerite Bennett has taken this story in a new direction with two new threats. The first group of hostiles quickly exits after their initial appearance, but not before putting one cast member into jeopardy, with Bennett making the danger incredibly real. The reaction from the character on 12 is fantastic. It’s enjoyable to have characters turnabout in surprising ways, and that’s exactly what happens with the individuals on Page 13. Their presence is fantastic and the way in which their ensure their demands are met is frightening. The guides that accompany the heroes are neat and I hope to see more of them in the next issue. What’s revealed on 17 is surprising and I was glad that nothing is truly revealed to the reader, who will have as many questions as the protagonists. I’ve gotten somewhat used to Bennett putting some solid surprises into this series, but was unprepared for the reveal on 21 or the response from one character in the final panel. The next issue is going to have some major reveals! Overall grade: A
The art: In a series whose premise is the world being turned upside down by animals taking over, it is refreshing to have the first page begin this issue: the world will go on, regardless of who is in charge and it can still be absolutely beautiful. The smile on Bethany’s face in the second panel would be the same on anyone else’s face before such a gorgeous sky. The second page has one character assisting another with something that animals didn’t do in the past and it was both a cool and funny visual sequence from artist Rafael de Latorre. The first two panels of Page 3 have a pair of characters having a little moment of visual joy that this book needs to remind the reader happiness is still possible in this brave new world. The bottom of 5 is a great tease for the reader, seeing how the characters react to something that they cannot yet see. 6 and 7 is a double-page splash revealing what is occurring and it’s pretty spectacular. The pain on a character’s face on 9 is answered by an incredible look of strength on another’s before the protagonists launch into action. The form that the new characters take on 13 is awesome; it’s as if the devil has appeared in the sky. The command at the bottom of 15 has an excellent reaction from those being ordered. There’s a very neat pull into a character on 16 that emphasizes the size of the speaker. 17 is a beautiful full-paged splash to show the team’s destination and it’s not the horrific destination that was insinuated. There’s a strong action sequence on 19, broken into three panels, and it’s a smart way to allow off panel speech to be stated while the action is taking place. This book continues to look strong. Overall grade: A
The colors: The story depends on the colors in several instances to communicate to the reader a deeper understanding of the characters or the situation and Rob Schwager does not disappoint. The first page has something that requires several colors and it looks good, but attention should also be drawn to the valley which is resplendent in bronzes and yellows that are enchanting. With a turn of the page these colors have changed to a calming yellow to evoke the dawn of a new day. This pale color also allows the characters to stand out in every panel they appear. When Jesse notices the fire, there’s a red outline placed around her dialogue balloon to emphasize her stress and the blaze. The gold used for the mass of new characters was perfect: it communicates royalty and wealth, which these individuals command. Page 17 shows a new location for the first time and it’s lovely at twilight: the sky, the grasses, the cliffs — all gorgeous. The colors are great. Overall grade: A
The letters: Marshall Dillon is responsible for the scene settings, dialogue, a song, sounds, a frightened bit of dialogue, the new characters’ speech, and a faint font for a new character. The stand out for the book is the latter, which is incredibly small font and in very light lettering. It’s a readable font, but does require some effort. However, it’s completely necessary for it to be so and enhances the dialogue of this character all the more. The scene settings are also something deserving of praise as they look like no other in current comics. Dillion, again, delivers the goods. Overall grade: A
The final line: A swarm of new problems comes the heroes’ way, leading to a reveal that could further complicate their situation. An engaging story, populated with outstanding characters, complimented by perfect visuals. A good entry point to the series and recommended reading. Overall grade: A
To order a digital copy go to http://aftershockcomics.com/on-sale-august-2017/
To see both covers visit my Instagram account: patrickhayesscifipulse
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