The lands between the coasts are vast, slow to change, and full of hidden magics. Mistakes have been made, and in this NEW ONGOING SERIES, an unwitting adventurer searches for answers to quell a coming storm that knows his name. From author SKOTTIE YOUNG (I HATE FAIRYLAND, Deadpool) and artist JORGE CORONA (NO. 1 WITH A BULLET, Feathers, Big Trouble in Little China: Old Man Jack) comes the tale of Abel, a young boy who must navigate an old land in order to reconcile his family’s history.

This comic book is an intriguing introduction to a fantasy-infused tale. At the same time this comic book sets up a visually compelling world while exploring themes of family and self-discovery, though it occasionally falters in pacing and depth.

The story in this comic book follows Abel, a young boy living in a small town, who struggles with a tumultuous relationship with his father. The creators of this comic book creates a narrative that blends the ordinary with the fantastical, creating a world where storms rage with supernatural fury. The plot hints at deeper mysteries and personal growth, promising an epic journey for Abel.

The writing in this comic book captures the emotional tension between Abel and his father, effectively conveying the boy’s internal conflict and yearning for something beyond his small-town life. The dialogue is natural and reflects the strained dynamics within Abel’s family. However, this comic book sometimes lacks depth, which has left me personally wanting more insight into the characters’ motivations and backgrounds.

The artwork itself in this comic book is the standout feature of this comic book, because it is bringing the world of “Middlewest” to life with a vibrant and expressive style. The illustrations we get in this comic book capture the energy and emotion of the narrative, from the mundane aspects of Abel’s life to the fantastical elements that disrupt it. In a way the artwork in this comic book has the ability to convey motion and mood enhances the storytelling, making each panel visually engaging.

The pacing of this comic book is a mixed bag in this comic book. While this comic book introduces key plot elements and character dynamics effectively, some scenes feel rushed, affecting the overall flow. This inconsistency has left me personally feeling disconnected from the story’s emotional core, despite its intriguing premise.

One of the strengths of this comic book is its exploration of themes such as family conflict, identity, and the search for belonging. The creators of this comic book weaves these themes into the narrative seamlessly, providing depth without overshadowing the fantasy elements. The story in this comic book invites us as readers to consider the complexities of family relationships and the struggle for personal freedom, adding layers of meaning to the unfolding drama.

I Give This Book 3 / 5