In Review: Conan the Barbarian (2023-) #33 – The Red Brotherhood

Synopsis: Conan and Valeria are pirates of the Red Brotherhood, living a life of lawless adventure on the Western Sea, but occult forces from the Commerian’s past have him in their sights once more and they will not rest until the barbarian’s body and soul are torn asunder.

The Story

In a brand-new story arc, Conan has reconnected with Valeria and joined a group of pirates known as the Red Brotherhood. After a successful raid on a military ship, their vessel, the Briney Wren, gets caught in a violent storm that brings with it a supernatural being intent on murdering the crew. Luckily for them, Conan identifies the threat and manages to hold it at bay, at least for the time being.

Meanwhile, after a long night wrestling with the restless seas, Captain Quinn and his crew of pirates make landfall on a mysterious island. But what lurks in the shadows, waiting to pounce, has yet to be fully revealed.

Artwork

Fernando Dagnino and colourist Diego Rodriguez produce some dangerously thrilling art for this opening issue. The panels depicting the storm and the fight between Conan and the supernatural being, which would be all but invisible if not for the drizzling rain, are truly thrilling. I loved the dark blues and shades used for the supernatural figure, suggesting that it can only be seen because of the raindrops bouncing off it.

Also impressive is the image of the ship in the background as Conan, Quinn and Valeria explore the island and discover what lies in wait for them. The final image of a giant rock with bodies and limbs poking out of it is truly ominous and obviously a warning of things to come.

Overall

This is a really strong start to the new story arc. Jim Zub does a great job of establishing Valeria as a woman who is every bit as ready for adventure and action as Conan. I particularly enjoyed the banter between Valeria and her crewmate Morley. The duel between them, which gets interrupted by the storm, is a nice touch that helps showcase her character and adventurous spirit.