Special 9-page preview! Kyoto, 1936. While a shroud of impending unrest hangs over Europe, in Japan the number of Yakuza members is close to outnumbering the Japanese army. In a government experiment, a group of geisha ladies are recruited to inform on the conversations they observe between the murderers and politicians. However, as untrained spies, the geishas’ actions result in one of their members’ brutal and bloody murder. Written by bright newcomer, Annika Eade, with the dazzling artwork of up-and-coming Brit star, Lee Garbett!

Let me start this review by saying that this one is just a preview for the entire comic book. And I read it because I wanted to see if the full comic book was worth the money and time I would spend on it. And I’m gonna give you the answer for that at the end of this review.

This preview offers an intriguing glimpse into a world of mystery and intrigue. At the same time this preview sets the stage for a series that promises a blend of noir and supernatural elements, though it leaves some room for development.

This preview is set in 1930s Japan, the story follows a group of geisha who become entangled in a web of secrets and danger. The creators of this preview create a narrative that is both atmospheric and enticing, drawing readers into a historical setting rich with cultural detail. The premise is captivating, combining elements of suspense with a unique cultural backdrop that adds depth to the story.

The character development in this preview is somewhat limited, as the focus is primarily on establishing the setting and mood. The geisha are portrayed with hints of complexity, suggesting potential for deeper exploration in full version of this preview. However, more insight into their individual personalities and motivations would enhance the emotional impact of the narrative.

The artwork in this preview plays a crucial role in bringing the world of “Dark Mists” to life. The illustrations capture the elegance and grace of the geisha, while also conveying the underlying tension and mystery of the plot. The artwork effectively complements the writing in this preview, helping to establish the preview’s distinctive atmosphere. The use of shadow and light is particularly effective, adding a layer of visual intrigue to the story.

While this preview succeeds in setting up an intriguing premise, it does have some areas that could be improved. The pacing, for instance, is uneven at times. Certain scenes feel rushed, with abrupt transitions that can disrupt the flow of the narrative. A more measured approach to storytelling would allow for a richer exploration of both characters and plot.

The dialogues in this preview, while functional, occasionally lacks the depth and nuance that could elevate the interactions between characters. More layered conversations would not only provide greater insight into the characters’ minds but also enrich the overall narrative.

Despite these shortcomings this preview holds promise. The combination of historical setting, cultural elements, and a touch of the supernatural creates a unique foundation for the series. With further character development and refinement of the narrative structure, the full version of this preview could deliver a more compelling and immersive experience.

So will buy and read the full version of this comic book ? Yes I will. It might take some time for me to actually read the full version of this comic book because I have been way too optimistic when creating my TBR list for this year and I don’t know if I get the time to read the full version of this comic book this year. But I will read the full version of this comic book at some point in time.

I Give This Book 3 / 5