#IReadsYou Review: NITA HAWES' NIGHTMARE BLOG #12

NITA HAWES' NIGHTMARE BLOG #12

IMAGE COMICS

STORY: Rodney Barnes

ART: Szymon Kudranski

COLORS: Luis Nct with mar and Silvestre Galotto

LETTERS: Marshall Dillon

EDITOR: Greg Tumbarello

COVER: Szymon Kudranski

VARIANT COVER ARTIST: Davi Go

28pp, Colors, 3.99 U.S. (February 2023)

Rated “M/ Mature”

Nita Hawes' Nightmare Blog created by Rodney Barnes and Jason Shawn Alexander

“Murder By Another Name” Part VI: “Acceptance”

Nita Hawes' Nightmare Blog is a comic book series created by Rodney Barnes and Jason Shawn Alexander.  Nita Hawes' Nightmare Blog is written by Barnes.  The current artist is Szymon Kudranski.  Colorist Luis Nct and letterer by Marshall Dillon complete the creative team.  The series focuses on a woman who is on a quest to root out evil by helping the people who contact her blog.

In Baltimore, Maryland, which some call “Bodymore, Murderland,” there is a woman named Dawnita “Nita” Hawes.  She is the owner of “Nita Hawes' Nightmare Blog” where citizens can contact Nita when they have a problem of a supernatural or paranormal nature.  Nita has just begun her quest to root the evil out of her city – with the help of her dead brother, Jason.

Nita Hawes' Nightmare Blog #12 (“Acceptance”) opens outside the empty plantation manor that is the base of operations of “Jackie the Ripper,” scourge of Baltimore and Annapolis, Maryland.  Police Detective Harden is ready to pop some caps in Jackie, but her erstwhile partner, Nita Hawes, knows that she must follow Jackie into the bowels of the old mansion.

Jackie the Ripper's reign of vengeance comes to a head as she faces off against Nita Hawes, the one woman who might be able to stop her.  Or is Nita the one human who can help Jackie end her painful immortality?  The winner of this battle will learn that victories don't come without a cost … if she didn't know that already.  Plus, Anasi the Spider-God referees.

THE LOWDOWN:  Nita Hawes' Nightmare Blog is a spin-off of Rodney Barnes and Jason Shawn Alexander's hit vampire comic book, Killadelphia.  The current story arc, “Murder By Another Name,” has come to an end, but not before making several direct connections to recent and ongoing events in Killadelphia.

I find that Barnes has used “Murder By Another Name” emancipate Nita Hawes, in a way.  She seems liberated from the pain and suffering of her pain and suffering – so to speak.  To me, this is how Barnes has evolved the series.  In the beginning, Nita was like a victim helping other victims.  I am assuming that going forward, when someone reaches out via the Nightmare Blog, that person will receive help from a warrior whose weapon is her empathy, which has been forged by trials and tribulations.

Szymon Kudranski's ghostly art is the perfect storytelling vehicle for this series, capturing the ethereal and murky natures of this series' action and drama.  And Kudranki's art allows Luis Nct's signature shadowy and haunting colors to find their most perfect companion.  Not to forget: Marshall Dillon's lettering also gives Barnes' script the sounds from beyond that it deserves.

So it seems that Nita is now headed to Philadelphia for a bit.  So, this can be a break for  you, dear readers; do catch up via the trades.

I READS YOU RECOMMENDS:  Fans of Killadelphia and of DC Comics' original Hellblazer will want Nita Hawes' Nightmare Blog.

A+

You can buy the NITA HAWES' NIGHTMARE BLOG VOL. 2 trade paperback here at AMAZON.

Reviewed by Leroy Douresseaux a.k.a. "I Reads You"

https://twitter.com/TheRodneyBarnes

https://twitter.com/jasonshawnalex

https://twitter.com/luisnct

https://twitter.com/MarshallDillon

https://twitter.com/ImageComics

https://imagecomics.com/

http://rodneybarnes.com/

https://www.instagram.com/imagecomics/

https://www.facebook.com/pages/Image-Comics-Inc/178643148813259

https://www.twitch.tv/imagecomics

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCHmaKLo0FXWIPx-3n6qs3vQ

https://www.linkedin.com/company/image-comics/

The text is copyright © 2023 Leroy Douresseaux. All Rights Reserved. Contact this blog or site for reprint and syndication rights and fees.

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#IReadsYou Review: NITA HAWES' NIGHTMARE BLOG #11

NITA HAWES' NIGHTMARE BLOG #11

IMAGE COMICS

STORY: Rodney Barnes

ART: Szymon Kudranski

COLORS: Luis Nct with mar and Silvestre Galotto

LETTERS: Marshall Dillon

EDITOR: Greg Tumbarello

COVER: Szymon Kudranski

VARIANT COVER ARTIST: Szymon Kudranski; Chris Visions

28pp, Colors, 3.99 U.S. (January 2023)

Rated “M/ Mature”

Nita Hawes' Nightmare Blog created by Rodney Barnes and Jason Shawn Alexander

“Murder By Another Name” Part V: “The Wake-Up Call”

Nita Hawes' Nightmare Blog is a comic book series created by Rodney Barnes and Jason Shawn Alexander.  Nita Hawes' Nightmare Blog is written by Barnes.  The current artist is Szymon Kudranski.  Colorist Luis Nct and letterer by Marshall Dillon complete the creative team.  The series focuses on a woman who is on a quest to root out evil by helping the people who contact her blog.

In Baltimore, Maryland, which some call “Bodymore, Murderland,” there is a woman named Dawnita “Nita” Hawes.  She is the owner of “Nita Hawes' Nightmare Blog” where citizens can contact Nita when they have a problem of a supernatural or paranormal nature.  Nita has just begun her quest to root the evil out of her city – with the help of her dead brother, Jason.

Nita Hawes' Nightmare Blog #11 (“The Wake-Up Call”) opens with Nita freed from the clutches of “Jackie the Ripper.”  Her savior, Anasi the Spider-God, wants Nita to show appreciation because he saved her from a Hell she never imagined.  He believes that Nita can show that by not returning to the clutches of the Ripper...

… But that can't be.  Nita must ignore Anansi's warnings and go looking for a formidable creature with the assistance of  Detective Harden.  As Nita comes one step closer to uncovering Jackie's dark secrets, she becomes her next target, again, as the killer desires to enjoy some more killing before returning to her next big sleep. 

THE LOWDOWN:  Nita Hawes' Nightmare Blog is a spin-off of Rodney Barnes and Jason Shawn Alexander's hit vampire comic book, Killadelphia.  The current story arc, “Murder By Another Name,” is making several direct connections to recent and ongoing events in Killadelphia, while rocking the “Killadelphia-verse” in its own way.

I like Barnes and Kudranski's take on Jack the Ripper.  She is a slave turned monster by the ghosts of those who killed her.  In a sense, because she was killed as chattel property and now “lives” as an murderous entity, she can never truly be a “former slave.”

I think that this story arc, “Murder By Another Name,” especially Chapter 4 (issue #10), is about Nita fully taking control of her mission.  Her “Nightmare Blog” is something she took upon herself, and she must take on that mission and must embrace it in her way regardless of the pleadings of well-meaning gods and baby ghosts.

I think next issue's closing chapter of this story arc will be big.  Keep reading, dear readers.

I READS YOU RECOMMENDS:  Fans of Killadelphia and of the original Hellblazer will want Nita Hawes' Nightmare Blog.

A+

You can buy the NITA HAWES' NIGHTMARE BLOG VOL. 2 trade paperback here at AMAZON.

Reviewed by Leroy Douresseaux a.k.a. "I Reads You"

https://twitter.com/TheRodneyBarnes

https://twitter.com/jasonshawnalex

https://twitter.com/luisnct

https://twitter.com/MarshallDillon

https://twitter.com/ImageComics

https://imagecomics.com/

http://rodneybarnes.com/

https://www.instagram.com/imagecomics/

https://www.facebook.com/pages/Image-Comics-Inc/178643148813259

https://www.twitch.tv/imagecomics

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCHmaKLo0FXWIPx-3n6qs3vQ

https://www.linkedin.com/company/image-comics/

The text is copyright © 2023 Leroy Douresseaux. All Rights Reserved. Contact this blog or site for reprint and syndication rights and fees.

--------------------------

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#IReadsYou Review: MONARCH #2

MONARCH #2

IMAGE COMICS

STORY: Rodney Barnes

ART: Alex Lins

COLORS: Luis Nct with Mar Silvestre Galotto

LETTERS: Marshall Dillon

EDITOR: Greg Tumbarello

COVER: Alex Lins with Luis Nct

VARIANT COVER ARTIST: Chris Visions

28pp, Colors, 3.99 U.S. (March 2023)

Rated “T/ Teen”

“Stranger from Above” Part II: “Home Sweet Home”

Monarch is a new young adult science fiction graphic novel from writer Rodney Barnes.  It is being serialized as a comic book series by Image Comics.  The rest of Monarch's creative team includes artist Alex Lins, colorist Luis Nct; and letterer Marshall Dillon.  The series focuses on Travon, a boy from Compton, CA who leads the resistance to an alien invasion.

Monarch #2 (“Home Sweet Home”) opens in Compton, and like everywhere else, it is under attack by strange beings from another world.  Travon finds himself captured and at the mercy of these strange beings, but what do they want with him?  Why are they attacking Earth?  Will he ever see his beloved Daysha again, or is he as doomed as the rest of the world?

Or will the answers to some of these questions blow Travon's mind?

THE LOWDOWN:  I think that Rodney Barnes has previously stated that the science fiction alien invasion films, Independence Day (1996) and Attack the Block (2011), are influences in the creation of Monarch.  The two films are vastly different, but both remain popular long after their respective theatrical releases.

I would say that Monarch is more like Attack the Block, a film that is full of surprises.  Monarch certainly is a box of surprises, as this second issue reveals.  This chapter, “Home Sweet Home,” is about embracing the mystery, and the best science fiction isn't just about technology and strange scenarios.  It is also about exploration and discovery and a sense of mystery to go with a sense of wonder.

Artist Alex Lins perfectly captures the real qualities of Miss Wilamae's fairy-like tale and the surreal qualities of Travon's haunting new reality.  Lins' graphical storytelling soars with imagination, as it must for a narrative that seems like one determined to break walls.  Luis Nct's color and Marshall Dillon's letters make Monarch feel like an old-fashioned rollicking adventure comic book full of strange beings and stranger things.

Monarch #2 is also heartfelt.  Barnes really takes time to consider the struggles of young minds with difficult matters, unbelievable truths, and harsh realities.  I can't wait to read more, and I want you to read it now, dear readers.

I READS YOU RECOMMENDS:  Fans of YA science fiction and of alien invasions will want to read Monarch.

A+

Reviewed by Leroy Douresseaux a.k.a. "I Reads You"

https://twitter.com/TheRodneyBarnes

https://twitter.com/MarshallDillon

https://twitter.com/ImageComics

https://imagecomics.com/

http://rodneybarnes.com/

https://www.instagram.com/imagecomics/

https://www.facebook.com/pages/Image-Comics-Inc/178643148813259

https://www.twitch.tv/imagecomics

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCHmaKLo0FXWIPx-3n6qs3vQ

https://www.linkedin.com/company/image-comics/

The text is copyright © 2023 Leroy Douresseaux. All Rights Reserved. Contact this blog or site for reprint and syndication rights and fees.

------------------------

#IReadsYou Review: NITA HAWES' NIGHTMARE BLOG #10

NITA HAWES' NIGHTMARE BLOG #10

IMAGE COMICS

STORY: Rodney Barnes

ART: Szymon Kudranski

COLORS: Luis Nct with mar and Silvestre Galotto

LETTERS: Marshall Dillon

EDITOR: Greg Tumbarello

COVER: Szymon Kudranski

VARIANT COVER ARTIST: Richard Clark

28pp, Colors, 3.99 U.S. (November 2022)

Rated “M/ Mature”

Nita Hawes' Nightmare Blog created by Rodney Barnes and Jason Shawn Alexander

“Murder By Another Name” Part IV: “The Autopsy”

Nita Hawes' Nightmare Blog is a comic book series created by Rodney Barnes and Jason Shawn Alexander.  Nita Hawes' Nightmare Blog is written by Barnes.  The current artist is Szymon Kudranski.  Colorist Luis Nct and letterer by Marshall Dillon complete the creative team.  The series focuses on a woman who is on a quest to root out evil by helping the people who contact her blog.

In Baltimore, Maryland, which some call “Bodymore, Murderland,” there is a woman named Dawnita “Nita” Hawes.  She is the owner of “Nita Hawes' Nightmare Blog” where citizens can contact Nita when they have a problem of a supernatural or paranormal nature.  Nita has just begun her quest to root the evil out of her city – with the help of her dead brother, Jason.

Nita Hawes' Nightmare Blog #10 (“The Autopsy”) opens with Nita in the middle of the kind of dream that one never wants to leave.  Well, maybe it feels so good because this is the afterlife!  Nita is now the prisoner of a lost soul that was once murdered in cold blood.  Now, it is back, screaming for vengeance, and the only thing standing in its way is Nita because Nita wanted to be the one standing in the way of darkness.

Meanwhile, her brother, Jason (“chocolatey Casper”), and Anansi the Spider god, the very ones who warned Nita, must go to her rescue.  But neither one is aware how way down deep in Hell this conspiracy goes.

THE LOWDOWN:  Nita Hawes' Nightmare Blog is a spin-off of Rodney Barnes and Jason Shawn Alexander's hit vampire comic book, Killadelphia.  The current story arc, “Murder By Another Name,” is making several direct connections to recent and ongoing events in Killadelphia.

Nita Hawes' Nightmare Blog is, on occasion, hellishly dark, but as dark as it can be, it is also playful.  Writer Rodney Barnes is a long-time television scribe, and TV writers are quite adept at mixing moods and genres.  Even the darkest police procedural has humor that isn't necessarily macabre, and the fizziest sitcoms can be dramatic – poignant and otherwise.  Barnes gives this series the attitude that the bad guys, even the nasty, evil bad guys, are having a blast.  Simply put, this Nightmare Blog is scary and surprisingly funny – more time than one would think.

Szymon Kudranski's lovely art quivers with the ecstasy of evil and shimmers with a darkness from the pit.  Kudranski has mastered horror comics, and may be creating a new graphical storytelling language for horror comic books.  Colorist Luis Nct lights up this tenth issue of Nita Hawes' Nightmare Blog with infernal hues – talk about scary lighting.  Marshall Dillon's lettering perfectly encapsulates the unique darkness and/or evil of each character in this nightmare menagerie.

Nita Hawes' Nightmare Blog is one of Image Comics' best titles.  There is nothing like it, and dear readers, you will love it.

I READS YOU RECOMMENDS:  Fans of Killadelphia and of the original Hellblazer will want Nita Hawes' Nightmare Blog.

A+

Reviewed by Leroy Douresseaux a.k.a. "I Reads You"

https://twitter.com/TheRodneyBarnes

https://twitter.com/jasonshawnalex

https://twitter.com/luisnct

https://twitter.com/MarshallDillon

https://twitter.com/ImageComics

https://imagecomics.com/

http://rodneybarnes.com/

https://www.instagram.com/imagecomics/

https://www.facebook.com/pages/Image-Comics-Inc/178643148813259

https://www.twitch.tv/imagecomics

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCHmaKLo0FXWIPx-3n6qs3vQ

https://www.linkedin.com/company/image-comics/

The text is copyright © 2022 Leroy Douresseaux. All Rights Reserved. Contact this blog or site for reprint and syndication rights and fees.

----------------------------

Amazon wants me to inform you that the affiliate link below is a PAID AD, but I technically only get paid (eventually) if you click on the affiliate link below AND buy something(s).

#IReadsYou Review: MONARCH #1

MONARCH #1

IMAGE COMICS

STORY: Rodney Barnes

ART: Alex Lins

COLORS: Luis Nct

LETTERS: Marshall Dillon

EDITOR: Greg Tumbarello

COVER: Alex Lins

VARIANT COVER ARTIST: Jason Shawn Alexander

32pp, Colors, 3.99 U.S. (February 2023)

Rated “T/ Teen”

“Stranger from Above” Part I: “The Truth Within”

Monarch is a new science fiction-thriller comic book from writer Rodney Barnes.  Published by Image Comics, it is drawn by Alex Lins; colored by Luis Nct; and lettered by Marshall Dillon.  The series focuses on a boy from Compton, CA who leads the resistance to an alien invasion.

Monarch #1 (“The Truth Within”) opens in the city of Compton, CA.  It introduces an African-American teenage boy named Travon.  Growing up in Compton is tough, but it is even tougher when a bitter, young thugs is hunting you every day.

Everyday problems, mundane and otherwise, are about to seem less important.  Alien life has made first contact with Earth and that contact is in the form of a military invasion.  Death, devastation, and mayhem rain down on humanity.  Now, can a single teenage boy rise to the challenge to protect his surrogate family and friends?

THE LOWDOWN:  I think writer Rodney Barnes has previously stated that the science fiction alien invasion films, Independence Day (1996) and Attack the Block (2011), are influences in the creation of Monarch.  The two films are vastly different, but both remain popular long after their respective theatrical releases.

Like Independence Day, Monarch is set in America and teases an intriguing ensemble cast.  In Monarch #1, Barnes offers the internal monologue or thoughts of three of the characters.  Like Attack the Block, Monarch presents a charismatic, young black male hero in Travon, which is an interesting name.

The art and graphical storytelling by Alex Lins conveys the grittiness and rundown quality of the environments in which Travon lives without being slavish to realism.  Lins' art is representational, emotive, and fantastical the way comic book art was before the creep of faux-realism.  Colorist Luis Nct does what he always does, craft mood, atmosphere, and intensity that makes the story pop on the page.  Letterer Marshall Dillon, as usual, creates what seems like a soundtrack to the world (Compton) and the fantastic (the alien invasion) that brings the story to life.

I hope that readers embrace Monarch with the kind of sales that will allow it to run its course.  Monarch is the kind of comic book that keeps me reading new comic books.  It is a great opening chapter of a serial that seems like it is going to thrill me every time.

I READS YOU RECOMMENDS:  Fans of science fiction and of alien invasions will want to read Monarch.

A+

10 out of 10

Reviewed by Leroy Douresseaux a.k.a. "I Reads You"

https://twitter.com/TheRodneyBarnes

https://twitter.com/MarshallDillon

https://twitter.com/ImageComics

https://imagecomics.com/

http://rodneybarnes.com/

https://www.instagram.com/imagecomics/

https://www.facebook.com/pages/Image-Comics-Inc/178643148813259

https://www.twitch.tv/imagecomics

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCHmaKLo0FXWIPx-3n6qs3vQ

https://www.linkedin.com/company/image-comics/

The text is copyright © 2023 Leroy Douresseaux. All Rights Reserved. Contact this blog or site for reprint and syndication rights and fees.

-------------------------

Amazon wants me to inform you that the affiliate link below is a PAID AD, but I technically only get paid (eventually) if you click on the affiliate link below AND buy something(s).

#IReadsYou Review: NITA HAWES' NIGHTMARE BLOG #9

NITA HAWES' NIGHTMARE BLOG #9
IMAGE COMICS

STORY: Rodney Barnes
ART: Szymon Kudranski
COLORS: Luis Nct with mar and Silvestre Galotto
LETTERS: Marshall Dillon
EDITOR: Greg Tumbarello
COVER: Szymon Kudranski
VARIANT COVER ARTIST: Davi Go
28pp, Colors, 3.99 U.S. (October 2022)

Rated “M/ Mature”

Nita Hawes' Nightmare Blog created by Rodney Barnes and Jason Shawn Alexander

“Murder By Another Name” Part III: “A Devil by Another Name”

Nita Hawes' Nightmare Blog is a comic book series created by Rodney Barnes and Jason Shawn Alexander.  Nita Hawes' Nightmare Blog is written by Barnes.  The current artist is Szymon Kudranski.  Colorist Luis Nct and letterer by Marshall Dillon complete the creative team.  The series focuses on a woman who is on a quest to root out evil by helping the people who contact her blog.

In Baltimore, Maryland, which some call “Bodymore, Murderland,” there is a woman named Dawnita “Nita” Hawes.  She is the owner of “Nita Hawes' Nightmare Blog” where citizens can contact Nita when they have a problem of a supernatural or paranormal nature.  Nita has just begun her quest to root the evil out of her city – with the help of her dead brother, Jason.

Nita Hawes' Nightmare Blog #9 (“A Devil by Another Name”) opens with a meeting of the minds between Anasi (the Spider-God) and the self-styled “Master Demon of Hell,” Belial (one of the four demon kings).  It seems that whatever war is going on in Philadelphia (as seen in the super-comic book, Killadelphia), the repercussions are destined for two Maryland burgs, Baltimore (“Bodymore”) and Annapolis (“Naptown”).

A darkness is spreading through Annapolis because the echo of a lost soul murdered in cold blood has come back, screaming for vengeance.  The only thing standing in its way is Nita Hawes because she has chosen to be that thing.  Little brother Jason returns to warn Nita a second time about involving herself in this mystery, but will she listen?  Or is she going to pay the price to stop this evil?  Is she willing?

THE LOWDOWN:  Nita Hawes' Nightmare Blog is a spin-off of Rodney Barnes and Jason Shawn Alexander's hit vampire comic book, Killadelphia.  The current story arc, “Murder By Another Name,” makes direct connections to recent events in Killadelphia.

I think that this is a quiet issue, the hints of Killadelphia blow back aside.  Writer Rodney Barnes offers something new and usually mind-blowing in every issue that he writes.  The surprise this time is the Nita Hawes' evolution – as I see it.  Has she embraced her destiny fully?  By my reading, I don't sense the fear in her about her new profession (so to speak) that I have in previous issues.  She has begun the hero's journey … I think.

As I wrote in a previous review: I am in love with Szymon Kudranski's lovely art, especially how he subtly shifts the atmosphere and lighting for each change of scenery.  This issue he joins colorist Luis Nct to create one of the most unsettling creatures that I have seen in comic books in a long time – the demon king Belial.  This concepts recalls classic creations of Steve Bissette and John Totleben in the 1980s Swamp Thing written by Alan Moore.

I said: Nita Hawes' Nightmare Blog is like if “Kolchak: The Night Stalker” and Hellblazer knocked demonic boots and conceived a black baby girl.  Now, that she is here, please, read Nita Hawes' Nightmare Blog.

I READS YOU RECOMMENDS:  Fans of Killadelphia and of the original Hellblazer will want Nita Hawes' Nightmare Blog.

A+

10 out of 10

Reviewed by Leroy Douresseaux a.k.a. "I Reads You"


https://twitter.com/TheRodneyBarnes
https://twitter.com/jasonshawnalex
https://twitter.com/luisnct
https://twitter.com/MarshallDillon
https://twitter.com/ImageComics
https://imagecomics.com/
http://rodneybarnes.com/
https://www.instagram.com/imagecomics/
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Image-Comics-Inc/178643148813259
https://www.twitch.tv/imagecomics
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCHmaKLo0FXWIPx-3n6qs3vQ
https://www.linkedin.com/company/image-comics/


The text is copyright © 2022 Leroy Douresseaux. All Rights Reserved. Contact this blog or site for reprint and syndication rights and fees.

----------------------

Amazon wants me to inform you that the affiliate link below is a PAID AD, but I technically only get paid (eventually) if you click on the affiliate link below AND buy something(s).

#IReadsYou Review: KILLADELPHIA #24

KILLADELPHIA #24
IMAGE COMICS

STORY: Rodney Barnes
ART: Jason Shawn Alexander with Germán Erramouspe
COLORS: Luis Nct
LETTERS: Marshall Dillon
EDITOR: Greg Tumbarello
COVER: Jason Shawn Alexander
VARIANT COVER ARTISTS: Kelley Jones with Luis Nct; Jeff Lemire
28pp, Colors, 3.99 U.S. (August 2022)

Rated “M/ Mature”

Killadelphia created by Rodney Barnes and Jason Shawn Alexander

“The End of All” Part VI: “Time to Die”

Killadelphia is an apocalyptic vampire and dark fantasy comic book series from writer Rodney Barnes and artist Jason Shawn Alexander.  Published by Image Comics, it centers on a conspiracy in which vampires attempt to rule Philadelphia.  Colorist Luis Nct and letterer Marshall Dillon complete Killadelphia's creative team.

Killadelphia focuses on James “Jim” Sangster, Jr. and his father, revered Philadelphia homicide detective, James Sangster, Sr., a vampire!  Father and son lead a ragtag team comprised of a medical examiner (Jose Padilla), werewolves, a witch, and a rebellious, but special young vampire (Tevin Thompkins a.k.a. “See Saw”) in a bid to save Philly.  Their adversary is a former First Lady, the vampire Abigail Adams.

As Killadelphia #24 (“Time to Die”) opens, the legendary vampire hunger, Toussaint Louverture, leads his forces into Philadelphia. Meanwhile, See Saw remembers the lessons he learned from the fate of his mailman father.  He is ready to fight.  So are the werewolf Zubiya and her pack, and their ally, Tituba the Stregherian.

George Washington, Founding Father and Vampire King, and his forces watch.  The Sangsters and the allies gather.  The war begins.

THE LOWDOWN:  We have reached the final chapter of Killadelphia's fourth story arc, “The End of All.”  It prepares the way for the next arc, but before it departs, it leaves us with bittersweet and just plain bitter moments.

As much as I totally enjoy the vampire and werewolf bloodshed of this wonderful comic book, I also like the contemplative side of Killadelphia.  Writer Rodney Barnes and artist Jason Shawn Alexander consistently offer many side dramas, focusing on particular characters.  These vignettes illuminate themes or fill in details concerning current or coming story lines and subplots.

In Killadelphia #24, Barnes and Alexander reveal another side of Tevin Thompkins a.k.a. “See Saw.”  This is the side that will carry See Saw into war, but the authors are never shy about sharing the bitter harvest that America has been for African-Americans for centuries.  There is no glance into Tevin's story that is free of horror.  It is as if Barnes and Alexander are telling us, “This may be dark fantasy, suckas, but this ain't escapism.”  For a moment, the authors made vampires seem less frightening than the adversaries Tevin's father faced.  This won't be the last time the threat of vampires pales before the real horrors of the United States of America...

Although this is the final chapter of the current story arc, it is a perfect time to enter Killadelphia.  It is always a perfect time to enter Killadelphia.

I READS YOU RECOMMENDS:  Fans of vampire comic books and of exceptional dark fantasy will want Killadelphia.

[This issue contains an afterword by Rodney Barnes.]

A

★★★★ out of 4 stars

Reviewed by Leroy Douresseaux a.k.a. "I Reads You"


https://twitter.com/TheRodneyBarnes
https://twitter.com/jasonshawnalex
https://twitter.com/luisnct
https://twitter.com/MarshallDillon
https://twitter.com/ImageComics
https://imagecomics.com/
http://rodneybarnes.com/
https://www.instagram.com/imagecomics/
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Image-Comics-Inc/178643148813259
https://www.twitch.tv/imagecomics
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCHmaKLo0FXWIPx-3n6qs3vQ
https://www.linkedin.com/company/image-comics/


The text is copyright © 2022 Leroy Douresseaux. All Rights Reserved. Contact this blog or site for reprint and syndication rights and fees.

---------------------

Amazon wants me to inform you that the affiliate link below is a PAID AD, but I technically only get paid (eventually) if you click on the affiliate link below AND buy something(s).

#IReadsYou Review: NITA HAWES' NIGHTMARE BLOG #8

NITA HAWES' NIGHTMARE BLOG #8
IMAGE COMICS

STORY: Rodney Barnes
ART: Szymon Kudranski
COLORS: Luis Nct with mar and Silvestre Galotto
LETTERS: Marshall Dillon
EDITOR: Greg Tumbarello
COVER: Szymon Kudranski
VARIANT COVER ARTISTS: Jason Shawn Alexander with Luis Nct
28pp, Colors, 3.99 U.S. (September 2022)

Rated “M/ Mature”

Nita Hawes' Nightmare Blog created by Rodney Barnes and Jason Shawn Alexander

“Murder By Another Name” Part II: “The Rule to the Exception”

Nita Hawes' Nightmare Blog is a comic book series created by Rodney Barnes and Jason Shawn Alexander.  Nita Hawes' Nightmare Blog is written by Barnes.  The current artist is Szymon Kudranski.  Colorist Luis Nct and letterer by Marshall Dillon complete the creative team.  The series focuses on a woman who is on a quest to root out evil by helping the people who contact her blog.

In Baltimore, Maryland, which some call “Bodymore, Murderland,” there is a woman named Dawnita “Nita” Hawes.  She is the owner of “Nita Hawes' Nightmare Blog” where citizens can contact Nita when they have a problem of a supernatural or paranormal nature.  Nita has just begun her quest to root the evil out of her city – with the help of her dead brother, Jason.

Nita Hawes' Nightmare Blog #8 (“The Rule to the Exception”) opens with a ghost saying that it wants to let go, but that's not true.  Once upon a time, a group of powerful white men sought immortality, and they paid for that journey with the body and blood of invisible humans.  Now, their descendants must pay, and Detective Harden, once a non-believer, believes enough to call on Nita.  Her brother, Jason, insists that sis sit this one out, but sis ain't backing down.

Plus, two men visit Nita.  One is deeply in love and says all the right things.  The other is petty and jealous and way too old to be acting that way.

THE LOWDOWN:  Nita Hawes' Nightmare Blog is a spin-off of Rodney Barnes and Jason Shawn Alexander's hit vampire comic book, Killadelphia.  We are still early in the new story arc, “Murder By Another Name.”

Although I may be wrong, I interpret Nita Hawes' Nightmare Blog as writer Rodney Barnes' most deeply personal work.  The supernatural killer in “Murder By Another Name” comes from Barnes' connections to the history of Black folks in America and how that story is tied in knots to the larger history of violence of the United States.  His stories, particularly here, directly connects that this violence on black people then is a violence on black people now.

On the Nita end of things, Barnes makes Nita feel real and really human because he isn't afraid to depict her pain and loss as coming from deep in her overall hurt; it is not merely character window dressing.  Nita is heroic and vulnerable, and her vulnerability and pain and loss make her determination to continue the mission that much more admirable.

I am in love with Szymon Kudranski's lovely art, especially how he subtly shifts the atmosphere and lighting for each change of scene.  It depends not only on the presence of the supernatural, but also the kind of supernatural present.  Luis Nct's coloring measures the power in those changes.

Nita Hawes' Nightmare Blog is like if “Kolchak: The Night Stalker” and Hellblazer had black baby girl.  [What a scandal that would have been at the DC Comics' offices.]  And what a beautiful comic book baby she is.

I READS YOU RECOMMENDS:  Fans of Killadelphia and of the original Hellblazer will want Nita Hawes' Nightmare Blog.

A+

Reviewed by Leroy Douresseaux a.k.a. "I Reads You"


https://twitter.com/TheRodneyBarnes
https://twitter.com/jasonshawnalex
https://twitter.com/luisnct
https://twitter.com/MarshallDillon
https://twitter.com/ImageComics
https://imagecomics.com/
http://rodneybarnes.com/
https://www.instagram.com/imagecomics/
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Image-Comics-Inc/178643148813259
https://www.twitch.tv/imagecomics
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCHmaKLo0FXWIPx-3n6qs3vQ
https://www.linkedin.com/company/image-comics/


The text is copyright © 2022 Leroy Douresseaux. All Rights Reserved. Contact this blog or site for reprint and syndication rights and fees.

-------------

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#IReadsYou Review: KILLADELPHIA #23

KILLADELPHIA #23
IMAGE COMICS

STORY: Rodney Barnes
ART: Jason Shawn Alexander with Germán Erramouspe and Nicole Palmquist
COLORS: Luis Nct
LETTERS: Marshall Dillon
EDITOR: Greg Tumbarello
COVER: Jason Shawn Alexander
VARIANT COVER ARTIST: Eli Minaya
28pp, Colors, 3.99 U.S. (July 2022)

Rated “M/ Mature”

Killadelphia created by Rodney Barnes and Jason Shawn Alexander

“The End of All” Part V: “Twelve Angry Vampires... Four Werewolves... Oh, And A Witch”

Killadelphia is an apocalyptic vampire and dark fantasy comic book series from writer Rodney Barnes and artist Jason Shawn Alexander.  Published by Image Comics, it centers on a conspiracy in which vampires attempt to rule Philadelphia.  Colorist Luis Nct and letterer Marshall Dillon complete Killadelphia's creative team.

Killadelphia focuses on James “Jim” Sangster, Jr. and his father, revered Philadelphia homicide detective, James Sangster, Sr., a vampire!  Father and son lead a ragtag team comprised of a medical examiner (Jose Padilla), werewolves, a witch, and a rebellious, but special young vampire (Tevin Thompkins a.k.a. “See Saw”) in a bid to save Philly.  Their adversary is a former First Lady, the vampire Abigail Adams.

As Killadelphia #23 (“Twelve Angry Vampires... Four Werewolves... Oh, And A Witch”) opens, Washington, Jefferson, and Adams have a meeting of the minds with the Eterna.  Meanwhile, Abigail Adams prepares to tell her ex how things are now.  On the other side of Philly, the werewolf Zubiya and her pack have to come to an agreement – to help the humans or to return to their old haunts.  Tituba the Stregherian witch moderates.

Toussaint Louverture, the legendary vampire hunter, and his sister, Sanité, meet Anansi, who has a warning.  Their fight against the vampires of Killy won't be what they are expecting.  And Jim Sr. speaks to See Saw.  Now is a time for conversation, but soon, there will be war – with directions from the thrones of Hell.

But George Washington: Commander-in-Chief of the Continental Army, Founding Father, and first president of the United States is now the undead Vampire King.  Can anyone defeat the very leader who won the battle for America the first time?!

THE LOWDOWN:  We have the penultimate chapter of Killadelphia's fourth story arc, “The End of All.”  It is an outta sight arc, and Chapter Five is the quiet before the storm.

Writer Rodney Barnes and artist Jason Shawn Alexander offer a … reposeful issue of the series with Killadelphia #23.  Barnes uses this issue to gather the major players before the readers and to reveal or emphasize their goals and conflicts.  He smartly puts a spotlight on Toussaint Louverture and Sanité, two players with series potential.

Alexander, with colorist Luis Nct, also does a character spotlight.  This issue is like a family photo album of this wonderful ensemble, Alexander finding beauty in brutal violence and ultimate evil.  Alexander's gift is to make each character a star in his own way, stressing his or her importance, even if the readers don't always catch on quickly.

I READS YOU RECOMMENDS:  Fans of vampire comic books and of exceptional dark fantasy will want Killadelphia.

A

Reviewed by Leroy Douresseaux a.k.a. "I Reads You"


https://twitter.com/TheRodneyBarnes
https://twitter.com/jasonshawnalex
https://twitter.com/luisnct
https://twitter.com/MarshallDillon
https://twitter.com/ImageComics
https://imagecomics.com/
http://rodneybarnes.com/
https://www.instagram.com/imagecomics/
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Image-Comics-Inc/178643148813259
https://www.twitch.tv/imagecomics
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCHmaKLo0FXWIPx-3n6qs3vQ
https://www.linkedin.com/company/image-comics/


The text is copyright © 2022 Leroy Douresseaux. All Rights Reserved. Contact this blog or site for reprint and syndication rights and fees.

----------------

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#IReadsYou Review: NITA HAWES' NIGHTMARE BLOG #7

NITA HAWES' NIGHTMARE BLOG #7
IMAGE COMICS

STORY: Rodney Barnes
ART: Szymon Kudranski
COLORS: Luis Nct with mar and Silvestre Galotto
LETTERS: Marshall Dillon
EDITOR: Greg Tumbarello
COVER: Syymon Kudranski
VARIANT COVER ARTISTS: Jason Shawn Alexander with Luis Nct
28pp, Colors, 3.99 U.S. (August 2022)

Rated “M/ Mature”

Nita Hawes' Nightmare Blog created by Rodney Barnes and Jason Shawn Alexander

“Murder By Another Name” Part I: “A Date with the Ripper”

Nita Hawes' Nightmare Blog is a comic book series created by Rodney Barnes and Jason Shawn Alexander.  Nita Hawes' Nightmare Blog is written by Barnes.  The current artist is Szymon Kudranski.  Colorist Luis Nct and letterer by Marshall Dillon complete the creative team.  The series focuses on a woman who is on a quest to root out evil by helping the people who contact her blog.

In Baltimore, Maryland, which some call “Bodymore, Murderland,” there is a woman named Dawnita “Nita” Hawes.  She is the owner of “Nita Hawes' Nightmare Blog” where citizens can contact Nita when they have a problem of a supernatural or paranormal nature.  Nita has just begun her quest to root the evil out of her city – with the help of her dead brother, Jason.

Nita Hawes' Nightmare Blog #7 (“A Date with the Ripper”) opens in Annapolis, Maryland at “McGarvey's Tavern.”  A high-end Congressman is about to meet a most grisly fate … at the hands of a killer that is apparently concerned about the afterlife.

Meanwhile, it has been six months since Nita danced to the blues of Howlin' Henry and bested the demon, Corson.  Nita has moved on from Jimmy Sangster, Jr. and has a hot new man in her life.  Then, her dead brother, Jason, shows up.  Isn't he supposed to finally be resting in peace?!  And now Detective Harden is calling from Annapolis.

THE LOWDOWN:  Nita Hawes' Nightmare Blog is a spin-off of Rodney Barnes and Jason Shawn Alexander's hit vampire comic book, Killadelphia.  Nita's connections to the series played a substantial part in the series' opening story arc, “The Fire Next Time.”

Now, comes the new story arc, “Murder By Another Name.”  Writer Rodney Barnes continues to spin his visceral horror stories that he builds from the horrid history of the United States when it comes to the treatment of the descendants of African slaves.  I like that Barnes'  horror fiction isn't merely violent narratives.  He mixes mysticism, folk culture, and local magic that result in a kind of dark fantasy that really feels otherworldly, in its own kind of Twilight Zone.

Between his work on Nita Hawes' and A Town Called Terror, artist Szymon Kudranski continues to impress me with his graphical storytelling styles.  Clean line work and luscious brushstrokes create a kind of living darkness where he can bring Barnes' conjurations to life in the most vivid way.

Girl!  Where ya' been?  Nita Hawes' Nightmare Blog is back and is great as ever.

I READS YOU RECOMMENDS:  Fans of Killadelphia and of the original Hellblazer will want Nita Hawes' Nightmare Blog.

A+

Reviewed by Leroy Douresseaux a.k.a. "I Reads You"


https://twitter.com/TheRodneyBarnes
https://twitter.com/jasonshawnalex
https://twitter.com/luisnct
https://twitter.com/MarshallDillon
https://twitter.com/ImageComics
https://imagecomics.com/
http://rodneybarnes.com/
https://www.instagram.com/imagecomics/
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Image-Comics-Inc/178643148813259
https://www.twitch.tv/imagecomics
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCHmaKLo0FXWIPx-3n6qs3vQ
https://www.linkedin.com/company/image-comics/


The text is copyright © 2022 Leroy Douresseaux. All Rights Reserved. Contact this blog or site for reprint and syndication rights and fees.

----------------------

Amazon wants me to inform you that the affiliate link below is a PAID AD, but I technically only get paid (eventually) if you click on the affiliate link below AND buy something(s).

#IReadsYou Review: KILLADELPHIA #22

KILLADELPHIA #22
IMAGE COMICS

STORY: Rodney Barnes
ART: Jason Shawn Alexander with Germán Erramouspe and Nicole Palmquist
COLORS: Luis Nct
LETTERS: Marshall Dillon
EDITOR: Greg Tumbarello
COVER: Jason Shawn Alexander
VARIANT COVER ARTIST: Elia Bonetti
28pp, Colors, 3.99 U.S. (May 2022)

Rated “M/ Mature”

Killadelphia and Elysium Gardens created by Rodney Barnes and Jason Shawn Alexander

“The End of All” Part IV: “The Conversation”

Killadelphia is an apocalyptic vampire and dark fantasy comic book series from writer Rodney Barnes and artist Jason Shawn Alexander and is published by Image Comics.  At the center of this series is a police officer caught in a lurid conspiracy in which vampires attempt to rule Philadelphia, “the City of Brotherly Love.”  Colorist Luis Nct and letterer Marshall Dillon complete Killadelphia's creative team.

Killadelphia focuses on James “Jim” Sangster, Jr. and his father, revered Philadelphia homicide detective, James Sangster, Sr., thought to be dead.  He is actually a vampire.  Now father and son lead a ragtag team comprised of a medical examiner (Jose Padilla), a dead president, and a rebellious, but special young vampire (Tevin Thompkins a.k.a. “See Saw”) in a bid to save Philly from an ambitious and murderous former First Lady, Abigail Adams.

As Killadelphia #22 (“The Conversation”) opens, Abigail and her coven are having an unpleasant conversation among themselves.  It gets more unpleasant when (vampire) George Washington, See Saw, and Aelio arrive for a deeper conversation.  It seems that these different factions must come together because the one true vampire king has returned to claim his throne and to lay waste to America.

Meanwhile, Jimmy and Tituba, the Stregherian witch, are still searching for See Saw.  They may have to throw more light on the situation than they expected... and they are also due for some conversation.

THE LOWDOWN:  We have entered the second half of Killadelphia's fourth story arc, “The End of All.”  It is an outta sight arc, and individually, so is Chapter Four, which resides under Jason Shawn Alexander's sexy-back cover.

Writer Rodney Barnes is a writer and executive producer on HBO's event series, “Winning Time: The Rise of the Lakers Dynasty.”  Reading Killadelphia is also a winning time because pretty much every issue introduces something entirely new that is entirely consequential, and totally amazing.  Killadelphia #22 is a basket of dark fantasy delights, featuring characters that could carry their own series, especially Tituba.  Here, what makes the characters rich is not so much their personalities as it is what they want.

Killadelphia #22 may also be the first time that I realized how artist Jason Shawn Alexander and colorist Luis Nct have managed to create such a menagerie of vampires and individual characters.  The characters with speaking roles have a unique look, and the coloring gives each one a visual and graphic personality.  It is a feast for the eyes and for the imagination.

Killadelphia #22 makes me feel like I have rediscovered the series, in a way.  Dear readers, I want you to discover it, also.

I READS YOU RECOMMENDS:  Fans of vampire comic books and of exceptional dark fantasy will want Killadelphia.

A+

Reviewed by Leroy Douressesaux a.k.a. "I Reads You"


https://twitter.com/TheRodneyBarnes
https://twitter.com/jasonshawnalex
https://twitter.com/luisnct
https://twitter.com/MarshallDillon
https://twitter.com/ImageComics
https://imagecomics.com/
http://rodneybarnes.com/
https://www.instagram.com/imagecomics/
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Image-Comics-Inc/178643148813259
https://www.twitch.tv/imagecomics
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCHmaKLo0FXWIPx-3n6qs3vQ
https://www.linkedin.com/company/image-comics/


The text is copyright © 2022 Leroy Douresseaux. All Rights Reserved. Contact this blog or site for reprint and syndication rights and fees.

----------------------

Amazon wants me to inform you that the affiliate link below is a PAID AD, but I technically only get paid (eventually) if you click on the affiliate link below AND buy something(s).

#IReadsYou Review: Nita Hawes' NIGHTMARE Blog #6

NITA HAWES' NIGHTMARE BLOG #6
IMAGE COMICS

STORY: Rodney Barnes
ART: Szymon Kudranski
COLORS: Luis Nct with mar and Silvestre Galotto
LETTERS: Marshall Dillon
EDITOR: Greg Tumbarello
COVER: well-BEE
VARIANT COVER ARTIST: Jason Shawn Alexander
28pp, Colors, 3.99 U.S. (April 2022)

Rated “M/ Mature”

Nita Hawes' Nightmare Blog created by Rodney Barnes and Jason Shawn Alexander

“The Fire Next Time” Part VI: “Revelations”

Nita Hawes' Nightmare Blog is a comic book series created by Rodney Barnes and Jason Shawn Alexander.  Nita Hawes' Nightmare Blog is written by Barnes.  It has been drawn by the artists Jason Shawn Alexander, well-BEE, and Patrick Reynolds, with Szymon Kudranski being the current artist.  Colorist Luis Nct and letterer by Marshall Dillon complete the creative team.  The series focuses on a woman who is on a quest to root out the evil in her city.

In Baltimore, Maryland, which some call “Bodymore, Murderland,” there is a woman named Dawnita “Nita” Hawes.  She is the owner of “Nita Hawes' Nightmare Blog” where citizens can contact Nita when they have a problem of a supernatural or paranormal nature.  Nita has just begun her quest to root the evil out of her city – with the help of her dead brother, Jason.

As Nita Hawes' Nightmare Blog #6 (“Revelations”) opens, Jason chats with Anansi the Spider-God, about his life and about Nita.  Her first case is a hot mess, and Hell is threatening to spill over into the land of the living.  Now, Jason and Anansi must travel to Hell to free Nita from the one of the four demon kings, Corson, who snatched her soul from her body.  Now, he won't let go, but maybe it isn't necessarily Corson's power that is keeping her in Perdition.

Meanwhile, an elderly, wheel-chair bound Steve Carpenter waits in his mansion for a visit from the man he and his late business partner, Harry Boartfield, screwed over.  That would be one “Howlin'” Henry Hawkins, legendary blues singer and currently possessed by Corson.  Can Nita free her ass in time to save Carpenter's old white ass?

THE LOWDOWN:  Nita Hawes' Nightmare Blog is a spin-off of Rodney Barnes and Jason Shawn Alexander's hit vampire comic book, Killadelphia.  Nita's connections to the series play a substantial part in this opening story arc, “The Fire Next Time,” which has now come to an end.

As dark as this series has been, writer Rodney Barnes has found time for humor, and this sixth issue shows that the supernatural are willing to talk shit to one another even with all Hell on the line.  In a strange way, it makes the threat of danger more dangerous or more threatening.  This is another reason why Nita reminds me of John Constantine and his dark fantasy and multitude of moods series, Hellblazer.  However, thus far, Barnes does not make Nita all-powerful, and it seems that he will grow the character before our very eyes.  What is she really and who or what will she be?

Artist Szymon Kudranski offers a mix of graphical storytelling styles – from clean line work and a smooth brushstroke to jarring and pitch-black compositions for the panels in Hell and from Hell.  Kudranski captures the series' signature – hope and damnation – and he conveys the right moods for a story arc that has an ending and also lingering elements and plot lines.

So, wow!  What a ride.  The series takes a quick break, which gives you, dear readers, a chance to read this first case in Nita Hawes' Nightmare Blog

I READS YOU RECOMMENDS:  Fans of Killadelphia and of the original Hellblazer will want Nita Hawes' Nightmare Blog.

A+

Reviewed by Leroy Douresseaux a.k.a. "I Reads You"


https://twitter.com/TheRodneyBarnes
https://twitter.com/jasonshawnalex
https://twitter.com/luisnct
https://twitter.com/MarshallDillon
https://twitter.com/ImageComics
https://imagecomics.com/
http://rodneybarnes.com/
https://www.instagram.com/imagecomics/
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Image-Comics-Inc/178643148813259
https://www.twitch.tv/imagecomics
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCHmaKLo0FXWIPx-3n6qs3vQ
https://www.linkedin.com/company/image-comics/


The text is copyright © 2022 Leroy Douresseaux. All Rights Reserved. Contact this blog or site for reprint and syndication rights and fees.

--------------------

Amazon wants me to inform you that the affiliate link below is a PAID AD, but I technically only get paid (eventually) if you click on the affiliate link below AND buy something(s).

#IReadsYou Review: KILLADELPHIA #21

KILLADELPHIA #21
IMAGE COMICS

STORY: Rodney Barnes
ART: Jason Shawn Alexander with Germán Erramouspe, Sherard Jackson, Nicole Palmquist
COLORS: Luis Nct
LETTERS: Marshall Dillon
EDITOR: Greg Tumbarello
COVER: Jason Shawn Alexander
VARIANT COVER ARTIST: Paul Azaceta
28pp, Colors, 3.99 U.S. (April 2022)

Rated “M/ Mature”

Killadelphia and Elysium Gardens created by Rodney Barnes and Jason Shawn Alexander

“The End of All” Part III: “The Truth”

Killadelphia is an apocalyptic vampire and dark fantasy comic book series from writer Rodney Barnes and artist Jason Shawn Alexander and is published by Image Comics.  At the center of this series is a police officer caught in a lurid conspiracy in which vampires attempt to rule Philadelphia, “the City of Brotherly Love.”  Colorist Luis Nct and letterer Marshall Dillon complete Killadelphia's creative team.

Killadelphia focuses on James “Jim” Sangster, Jr. and his father, revered Philadelphia homicide detective, James Sangster, Sr., thought to be dead.  He is actually a vampire.  Now father and son lead a ragtag team comprised of a medical examiner (Jose Padilla), a dead president, and a rebellious, but special young vampire (Tevin Thompkins a.k.a. “See Saw”) in a bid to save Philly from an ambitious and murderous former First Lady, Abigail Adams.

Killadelphia #21 (“The Truth”) finds Jose and the Zubiya werewolf pack out on a supply run.  The streets of Philadelphia may be mostly empty because of its vampire apocalypse, but those desperate enough for supplies are out in these streets.  In a ransacked pharmacy, Jose meets some of them, and before long, she the peacemaker between two packs – werewolf and predatory humans.

Meanwhile, See Saw is at a crossroads.  The young vampire is tired of dealing with all the lies he's been told.  Now, George Washington has brought someone who can tell the young blood a new story.  Meet Aelio and hare his tale of “the Eterna.”

THE LOWDOWN:  We are in the middle of Killadelphia's fourth story arc, “The End of All.”  It is outta sight, and individually, so is Chapter Three, which resides under Jason Shawn Alexander's Gustav Klimt-inspired cover.

Writer Rodney Barnes is a writer and executive producer on HBO's event series, “Winning Time: The Rise of the Lakers Dynasty.”  In Killadelphia, he plumbs the depths of America's original dynasties, in all their layers of secrets, lies, sins, and hidden truths.  One half of issue #21 offers what feels like a much needed happy ending.  The other half presents one of those wonderful Killadelphia histories – an alternative history of magic, mysticism, and secret things.  The truth, as Barnes gives it to us, is always fun to read, although this is the kind of thing that will eventually get Killadelphia labeled “CRT,”
… or woke … or politically correct...

I am always happy to see series artist and co-creator Jason Shawn Alexander and his team draw werewolves.  I may have stated previously that Killadelphia and its connecting series have some of the best drawn werewolves since the late Bernie Wrightson drew them for Stephen King's Cycle of the Werewolf.

Overall, the graphical storytelling here is quite good.  Here, series of still illustrations come together and flow like moving pictures of shifting moods and settings.  Even within the back story and history, the art gives a sense of change and of time passing.  The heart of Killadelphia is the changing story and the mercurial narrative, and in that, Killadelphia will tell its the truth … or maybe many truths.

Read this issue, dear readers, and discover why other readers are finding their way to Killadelphia – loving it and thirsting for it.

I READS YOU RECOMMENDS:  Fans of vampire comic books and of exceptional dark fantasy will want Killadelphia.

A+

10 out of 10

Reviewed by Leroy Douresseaux a.k.a. "I Reads You"


https://twitter.com/TheRodneyBarnes
https://twitter.com/jasonshawnalex
https://twitter.com/luisnct
https://twitter.com/MarshallDillon
https://twitter.com/ImageComics
https://imagecomics.com/
http://rodneybarnes.com/
https://www.instagram.com/imagecomics/
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Image-Comics-Inc/178643148813259
https://www.twitch.tv/imagecomics
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCHmaKLo0FXWIPx-3n6qs3vQ
https://www.linkedin.com/company/image-comics/


The text is copyright © 2022 Leroy Douresseaux. All Rights Reserved. Contact this blog or site for reprint and syndication rights and fees.

-------------------------

Amazon wants me to inform you that the affiliate link below is a PAID AD, but I technically only get paid (eventually) if you click on the affiliate link below AND buy something(s).

 

#IReadsYou Review: Nita Hawes' NIGHTMARE Blog #5

NITA HAWES' NIGHTMARE BLOG #5
IMAGE COMICS

STORY: Rodney Barnes
ART: Szymon Kudranski
COLORS: Luis Nct with mar and Silvestre Galotto
LETTERS: Marshall Dillon
EDITOR: Greg Tumbarello
COVER: well-BEE
VARIANT COVER ARTISTS: Jason Shawn Alexander
28pp, Colors, 3.99 U.S. (March 2022)

Rated “M/ Mature”

Nita Hawes' Nightmare Blog created by Rodney Barnes and Jason Shawn Alexander

“The Fire Next Time” Part V: “Soul Searching”

Nita Hawes' Nightmare Blog is a comic book series created by Rodney Barnes and Jason Shawn Alexander.  Nita Hawes' Nightmare Blog is written by Barnes.  It has been drawn by the artists Jason Shawn Alexander, well-BEE, and Patrick Reynolds, with Szymon Kudranski being the current artist.  Colorist Luis Nct and letterer by Marshall Dillon complete the creative team.  The series focuses on a woman who is on a quest to root out the evil in her city.

In Baltimore, Maryland, which some call “Bodymore, Murderland,” there is a woman named Dawnita “Nita” Hawes.  She is the owner of “Nita Hawes' Nightmare Blog” where citizens can contact Nita when they have a problem of a supernatural or paranormal nature.  Nita has just begun her quest to root the evil out of her city – with the help of her dead brother, Jason.

As Nita Hawes' Nightmare Blog #5 (“Soul Searching”) opens, an elderly, wheel-chair bound Steve Carpenter attends the graveside funeral of his son, daughter-in-law, and two grandsons.  Once upon a time, Carpenter and his late business partner, Harry Boartfield, owned the recording contract of the legendary blues singer, “Howlin'” Henry Hawkins.  Old Henry gave his body over to one of the four demon kings, Corson, to pay back Carpenter and Boartfield for screwing him over.  Carpenter's kin just happened to be on the worst end of the payback.

Somewhere down below, our new favorite paranormal investigator, Nita Hawes, is philosophizing with a big boss demon.  And if that weren't bad enough, Nita will end up in a still worse place and have to deal with an ex – someone familiar to us.

THE LOWDOWN:  Nita Hawes' Nightmare Blog is a spin-off of Rodney Barnes and Jason Shawn Alexander's hit vampire comic book, Killadelphia.  Nita's connections to the series play a big part in this opening story arc, “The Fire Next Time,” which has reached it penultimate issue.

Writer Rodney Barnes approaches Nita Hawes' Nightmare Blog with the same force of imagination with which he brings to Killadelphia.  However, Nita Hawes is the eye of the storm in her own series in a way that no single character in Killadelphia is.  In that way, Nita has power in a manner that the character John Constantine had in his series, Hellblazer.  Since DC Comics ruined Hellblazer, Barnes' has created the perfect series to take its place.

Artist Szymon Kudranski current run as the series' artist is straight hellfire.  Kudranski brings Barnes' occult infusions to life with madness and magic, and he makes the “Nightmare” in the title stay nightmarish.

I READS YOU RECOMMENDS:  Fans of Killadelphia and of the original Hellblazer will want Nita Hawes' Nightmare Blog.

A+

10 out of 10

Reviewed by Leroy Douresseaux a.k.a. "I Reads You"


https://twitter.com/TheRodneyBarnes
https://twitter.com/jasonshawnalex
https://twitter.com/luisnct
https://twitter.com/MarshallDillon
https://twitter.com/ImageComics
https://imagecomics.com/
http://rodneybarnes.com/
https://www.instagram.com/imagecomics/
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Image-Comics-Inc/178643148813259
https://www.twitch.tv/imagecomics
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCHmaKLo0FXWIPx-3n6qs3vQ
https://www.linkedin.com/company/image-comics/


The text is copyright © 2022 Leroy Douresseaux. All Rights Reserved. Contact this blog or site for reprint and syndication rights and fees.

-----------------------

Amazon wants me to inform you that the affiliate link below is a PAID AD, but I technically only get paid (eventually) if you click on the affiliate link below AND buy something(s).

#IReadsYou Review: KILLADELPHIA #20

KILLADELPHIA #20
IMAGE COMICS

STORY: Rodney Barnes
ART: Jason Shawn Alexander with Germán Erramouspe, Sherard Jackson, Nicole Palmquist
COLORS: Luis Nct
LETTERS: Marshall Dillon
EDITOR: Greg Tumbarello
COVER: Jason Shawn Alexander
VARIANT COVER ARTIST: Erik Larsen
28pp, Colors, 3.99 U.S. (March 2022)

Rated “M/ Mature”

Killadelphia and Elysium Gardens created by Rodney Barnes and Jason Shawn Alexander

“The End of All” Part II: “The Decision”

Killadelphia is an apocalyptic vampire and dark fantasy comic book series from writer Rodney Barnes and artist Jason Shawn Alexander and is published by Image Comics.  At the center of this series is a police officer caught in a lurid conspiracy in which vampires attempt to rule Philadelphia, “the City of Brotherly Love.”  Colorist Luis Nct and letterer Marshall Dillon complete Killadelphia's creative team.

Killadelphia focuses on James “Jim” Sangster, Jr. and his father, revered Philadelphia homicide detective, James Sangster, Sr., thought to be dead.  He is actually a vampire.  Now father and son lead a ragtag team comprised of a medical examiner, a dead president, and a rebellious, but special young vampire (Tevin Thompkins a.k.a. “See Saw”) in a bid to save Philly from an ambitious and murderous former First Lady, Abigail Adams.

As Killadelphia #20 (“The Decision”) opens, the rebellious and very special young vampire, Tevin Thompkins a.k.a. “See Saw,” finds himself at a crossroads … of sorts.  George Washington – yes, that one – wants to have a meeting of the minds with him.  That means the “Father of Our Nation” has a (back) story to tell.  Hope it does not put See Saw to sleep, but he better listen.  This undead president has some illuminating allies.

Abigail Adams and her lot plot against her husband, former President John Adams, and his forces, which are now aligned with the Sangsters and their allies.  Where will the former First Lady go to find an equalizer?

And are Zubiya and her werewolf pack and Tituba, the witch of Stregheria, really allies?  And if so, how far are they willing to go?

THE LOWDOWN:  Killadelphia's fourth story arc, “The End of All,” has just begun, and it is outta sight! already.  It is being described as a turning point in the series, and Killadelphia #20 is indeed filled with a lot of big things and big reveals.

While Rodney Barnes was writing beautiful comic books like Killadelphia and Nita Hawes' Nightmare Blog, he was also co-writing (and acting in) an entire damn event television series for HBO (“Winning Time: The Rise of the Lakers Dynasty”).  One could never tell, though.  Killadelphia feels like the work of someone exercising his insane imagine over the hot stove of this narrative, with a simmering pot on each burner – and focusing on nothing else.

As he has for a couple of years now, artist and co-creator, Jason Shawn Alexander, turns Barnes' brilliant script into the most intense and invigorating dark horror comic book art and graphical storytelling that I have experienced in a long time.  The crazy thing about Alexander's amazing work is that, at least to me, every issue looks different, and, even more so, seems different.  It is as if Killadelphia takes place in a thousand dreaming cities, and Alexander will show us every version of this dream – even if his drawing hand falls off.  He even takes time to give us a George Washington that looks like “New Romantics”/pop era David Bowie.  How about that for an immortal makeover?

So take a trip to Killadelphia.  The good stuff … and other things are waiting for you.

I READS YOU RECOMMENDS:  Fans of vampire comic books and of exceptional dark fantasy will want Killadelphia.

A+

Reviewed by Leroy Douresseaux a.k.a. "I Reads You"


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