Review: Shadowman, Volume One: Birth Rites by Justin Jordan (Writer), Patrick Zircher (Ilustrator), Brian Reber (Color) (L)

Synopsis: There's a million dreams in the Big Easy. But now its worst nightmare is about to come true. As the forces of darkness prepare to claim New Orleans as their own, Jack Boniface must embrace the legacy he was born to uphold. As Shadowman, Jack is about to become the only thing that stands between his city and an army of unspeakable monstrosities from beyond the night. But is the mantle of Shadowman a blessing, or a curse? And what is the true cost of his otherworldly power? (from the online description)

Review: A fellow bookstagramer (redstarreviews) recommend Valiant comics to me and I was immediately drawn to Shadowman. The idea of a voodoo gods and heroics together sounded intriguing. I was not disappointed.

There is a mystery surrounding Jack Boniface, a mix of terror and blood, lost amulets, dead parents and the legacy of the Shadowman. Not all gets explained in this story but enough so you aren’t left bereft and unfulfilled.

The art was crisp and clear, and the colors were vibrant, blood so red it seems wet on the page. The subtle swirls of black, grey, and purples made the other world chilling and horrific. The artists and colorists captured New Orleans well – I could almost smell it. The story was fast-paced, tense, and dark. I actually worried for the good guys. All around, an enjoyable graphic novel, with one hell of a central character. I will most defiantly be ready more of this story.  

Bookmarks: 4 of 5

Awards: None

ISBN: 978-1-9393-4600-1

Year Published: 2012

Date Finished: 4-29-2017

Pages: 115