- Writer: Jeff McComsey
- Artist: Tommy Lee Edwards
- Letterer: John Workman
The first issue of this series gave us glimpses of the monster at its center, while introducing us to Denny and Marnie, who were brought together by the mysterious death of their father. While the second issue showed a lot more of the monster and gave us an idea of what it could do, Marnie and Denny still were the focus. The third issue pushes the monster to the forefront in two ways. First, we are given a clear (and fascinating) backstory for the monster and an explanation about the death that kicked the series off. Second, the crew takes the fight to the monster, which gives us some of the best visuals of the creature yet.
Marnie and Denny largely slide into the background, crowded out by the exposition and monster hunt. The art continues to remind me of Hellboy and B.P.R.D., which is a great fit to the tone of the series. Marnie is given just enough to do to show she’s a tough cookie, and she’s at the center of a standout set piece involving an axe. Marnie’s gang continues to be the wackiest crew I’ve seen – this issue features a member named Elvis.
My only criticism of the issue is that knowing it is issue 3 of 4 robs some of the surprise at the end of the issue, because you just know there is more story to be told. With that said, the last two pages are simply amazing.
There is a decent amount of blood in the issue, and the bright red really stands out against the dark blue color palette. There is also enough cursing to warrant some parental discretion. I recommend starting with issue 1, but absent that I think this issue is the second best place to start because everything is explained at the beginning.
GRENDEL, KENTUCKY #3 will be released on November 18th.
Check back in a few weeks for my thoughts on the last part (set for release on December 23rd) of the four part series.
Have you read the issue? What were your thoughts? Feel free to chat with me on Twitter or leave a comment below!
