From the creators of the acclaimed TREES graphic novels, which are currently being adapted for television, comes something completely different. A professional pathfinder, his only ally a disaffected young murderess, breaks out of a torture cell in pursuit of his worst extraction scenario escaping on foot across a sprawling and secret off-world colony established a hundred years ago and filled with generations of lunatics. WARREN ELLIS & JASON HOWARD ignite a high-speed new action serial.

This comic book offers a fast-paced, action-packed introduction to a world of intrigue and mystery. At the same time this comic book sets the stage for a sci-fi adventure filled with high-octane moments and tantalizing questions about its unique setting.

The story in this comic book kicks off with a bang, following protagonist Mike Blackburn, a scout from Earth, who finds himself imprisoned on a secret off-world colony. The creators of this comic book create a narrative that is both thrilling and mysterious, with Blackburn attempting a daring escape alongside Grace Moody, a defector with insider knowledge. The plot moves swiftly, maintaining a relentless pace that have kept me engaged but sometimes at the expense of deeper character exploration.

The character development in this comic book somewhat limited due to the focus on action and plot progression. Blackburn is portrayed as a resourceful and determined hero, but his backstory and motivations are only hinted at, leaving readers curious but not fully invested. Similarly, Grace is intriguing, but her character lacks depth in this initial outing. Future comic books in this series hold potential for more character-driven storytelling, which could enrich the narrative.

The artwork is a standout feature of this comic book, because it is bringing the dystopian world of “Cemetery Beach” to life with gritty detail and dynamic energy. The illustrations capture the chaos and frenetic pace of the action sequences, making them both intense and visually engaging. The style of the artwork in this comic book suits the gritty, industrial aesthetic of the off-world colony, enhancing the atmosphere of danger and decay.

While this comic book excels in action and world-building, it occasionally sacrifices depth for speed. The relentless pacing leaves little room for exposition or exploration of the intriguing setting. We as readers are thrust into the action with minimal context, which can be both exciting and disorienting. More background on the colony’s origins and purpose would enhance the story’s complexity and reader engagement.

The dialogues in this comic book are sharp and functional, capturing the urgency and tension of the characters’ plight. The writing in this comic book is concise, using conversations to propel the plot forward. However, the dialogue sometimes lacks the depth and nuance that could provide greater insight into the characters and their motivations.

I Give This Book 3 / 5