- Writer: Benjamin Percy
- Artist: Brent Schoonover
- Colorist: Nick Filardi
- Letterer: Sal Cipriano
Thanks to AWA Upshot for the review copy!
I stumbled upon DEVIL’S HIGHWAY #1 as I worked through my backlog of titles to review. Boy am I glad I did. This series, which I can best describe as The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo meets Criminal Minds, is one of the most pleasant surprises I’ve had in reviewing new titles.
The issue starts off with a bang, setting up the mystery that drives he rest of the issue (and likely the 5 part series.) Three days later, the protagonist rolls into town. Sporting a punk hairstyle, she’s got a tough as nails personality and some serious investigation skills. My enjoyment of this book is split 50-50 between her character and the mystery she is exploring. The writing and art mesh perfectly, establishing a dark tone, but with real energy. The coloring is fairly washed out, befitting its winter setting. One interesting thing about this book is how much of the investigatory work is shown without dialogue. Unlike some books that try this technique, the art expertly moves the story forward without any confusion.
While the majority of the issue focuses on Sharon, the end of the book introduces a mysterious new character. Then, the last two pages kick things up a notch, with a grisly crime scene that ups the creepy factor and provides a great cliffhanger for the next issue.
DEVIL’S HIGHWAY is definitely a series for adults based on its subject matter, cursing and blood. It establishes a fascinating mystery and a compelling lead character. While I didn’t get a chance to review it before it’s release, I’m glad I circled back to it.
DEVIL’S HIGHWAY #1 is now available.
Check back soon for my thoughts on the second issue of this series.
Have you read this series? Want to talk to me about it? Feel free to chat with me on Twitter or leave a comment below!
