Here’s the thing, I know nothing about any of the characters featured in this book having never read a single issue of Hack/Slash nor the Eva one-shot, Daughter of the Dragon. Here’s the other thing, to enjoy this book neither do you. Brandon Jerwa does a terrific job of giving you all the information you need to know about Cassie, Vlad, Eva and Michael and he does it in a way that flows well with the story. Better yet, I know want to know more about the characters, their motivations and where they come from, though not knowing any of that doesn’t detract from the story in the slightest. Basically, someone is reanimating the monsters that Hack/Slash have killed and sending them after Eva in order to capture Michael. This basic premise is wrapped up in a fast paced story featuring hacking, slashing, death and a very nice explosion. Once it starts, it keeps you rolling right along and there is a nice revelation towards the end that is still really intriguing without knowing anything about the characters. I suspect fans of Eva will be even more wowed. As with all great writings, I’m left wanting more. Fortunately, that’s only a month away.
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I’m always entertained by Jerwa’s writing, but I think he has really come into his own here. As stated above, the story flows extraordinarily well and the dialogue and actions of the characters give you all the information you need to know without overdoing it on exposition. The dialogue is very sharp and an epithet uttered by Cassie may just become my new favorite phrase. The art by Cezar Razek is really nice and I’m particularly enamored with the way he draws the characters’ reactions to certain situations. Razek worked with Jerwa on last year’s Stargate: Vala Mal Doran mini-series and the writer/artist combo continues to wow with this book. I hope to see them collaborate on something long term soon.
I highly recommend you pick up Hack/Slash/Eva: Monster’s Ball #1 from your local comic shop at your earliest convenience and wait until you have time to sit down and savor it. It will be your favorite read this week!