Dark Red #2

Back from an amazing vacation in Taipei and Palau, and back the Random Stack of Unread Comics!

Title: Dark Read
Issue: 2
Date: 2008
Publisher: Dark Red Comics
Writer: Lynn French
Artist: Lynn French
Letterer: Joanna McKenzie
Editor: Joanna McKenzie

Sarah MacAllister's introduction to the supernatural side of the city continues at a rapid pace as it turns out that a woman she's known since her childhood is deeply connected to the city's mystics.

Meanwhile forces are conspiring to release a plague of demons on the city, and the first attacks on the city's protectors have begun.

This issue really ups the complexity of the story, introducing new villains and new supporting characters, and extending the story beyond Sarah's personal experiences. By the end, there is a good established direction to the action, and the plot feels less scattered than at the start of the issue.

The photo-based artwork continues to be a visual treat, and I'm enjoying the worldbuilding.

Rating 7/10

Dark Red #1

From the Random Stack of Unread Comics. I bought this from Indyplanet in 2007. I know this because I found the packing slip in with the comic.

Title: Dark Read
Issue: 1
Date: 2007
Publisher: Dark Red Comics
Writer: Lynn French
Artist: Lynn French
Letterer: Joanna McKenzie
Editor: Joanna McKenzie

A young woman who was permanently blinded by a sudden illness discovers that she can see elements of a hidden world: Demons, angels, and magical beings and objects. After rescuing a man from an attack by demons, she is introduced to a hidden world, in which the peace that has existed between the supernatural beings of her city is suddenly threatened, and she is being drawn into the conflict.

This book uses digitally-painted art over photographs for a pretty effective and unique look.

The first issue does a nice job of introducing the lead character, Sarah MacAllister, as well as several members of the supporting cast, while balancing a good amount of worldbuilding. Sarah is instantly likeable, and the world is intriguing.

This was a good beginning that did its job of getting me hooked. I have the second issue and I'm eager to see where we go from here.

Rating: 8/10