Devil’s Due/1First Comics 2016
Written by Ash Maczko
Illustrated by Ashley Witter
If you haven’t experienced this yet then you are really missing out on something spectacular. Ashley’s work on this is utterly gorgeous and the way Ash has been telling this story really grabs your attention and brings you into this world. It’s been ten years since the flash happened that destroyed mankind and enabled the animal population with intelligence. So while we see what is going on now with the Tin Kin clan as they fight for survival we also see snippets of the past and the events that will lead up to that flash. This really one of those rare books that you never expect to find and once you do you’ll never forget.
In rural Illinois Eddie and his mother is where we open this issue. I’m super intrigued by the opening each issue as we see Eddie’s life happen unfold before us. It’s just a bit ya know but it’s the bit that sets the stage for the what’s to come and it almost has the effect of anticipation that’s too much too handle. It really is a great way to get us feeling something as we head into the clans.
So this time around we’re really introduced to a broader range of characters. It’s interesting to see which animals are used as labor animals. The state of that Honey Badger and poor dog really make quite the impact. Then seeing Grin entering what looks like a bizarre was stunning until you see the Emperor and well all bets are off.
I’m amazed at how things are progressing story wise. I mean everything we see and learn this issue is a summation of the first four issues but now we get to see why those events happened. What force was behind it all, it seemed at the time it was just a personal vendetta thing between two clans fighting for resources. Fighting for resources and such doesn’t that sound familiar? In many ways in the past ten years these animals have formed societies that mimic humanity in ways i’m sure many don’t notice including the animals themselves.
Back on track. I think what we see from the Emperor, aside from motives but even then we get greed and hubris, is this need for control and a ruthlessness that kind of fits with his animal nature if you will. What a marvelous introduction, it really blends human and animal traits together so incredibly well. Not to mention the fact that ties up a few questions readers have had and didn’t know to ask about heh.
Now I can’t be sure but I think Ashley’s gotten even better than the last time around. I mean i’ve seen her work in person, real time drawing, and she’s amazing but this what we’re getting here is so much more vivid and vibrant and full of detail and verve than I remember. The personality we can see in the face and there’s even some soul in the eyes and that’s impressive to me. I’m reviewing this from a pdf file and I’m amazed but honestly seeing in print is even more impressive this is the kind of work you have to hold in your hand because it’s just beyond measure.
As we gear up for the Tin Kin’s assault from the Maw and Amoni the characterization remains incredibly strong and the story unfolds in such gorgeous ways. With all the hooplah out there this is the Summer’s big thing!