- Writers: Brian Herbert and Kevin J. Anderson
- Artist: Francesco Mortarino
- Colorist: Raúl Angulo
- Letterer: Ed Dukeshire
- Main Cover Artist: Christian Ward
- Designer: Madison Goyette
- Assistant Editor: Gwen Waller
- Editor: Dafna Pleban
Thanks to BOOM! Studios for the review copy!
Dune, the classic series of sci-fi novels, has seen a bit of a resurgence thanks to the recent movie adaptation. A welcome byproduct of this is Dune: The Waters of Kanly. Dune has Game of Thrones level depth to its mythology, so there’s plenty of room for more stories. This story follows Gurney Halleck’s (Josh Brolin in the latest movie) work with spice runners as he plots his revenge against the Harkonnens. The story builds on the events in Dune and is written by Brian Herbert (son of original author Frank) and Kevin J. Anderson.
If you are familiar with Dune, either through the movies or books, you’ll be able to slide right into the story. Newcomers may find themselves a little behind, but the opening pages provide enough background to understand the story. The issue also fills in some useful backstory for Gurney. As a warning notes on the front page, part of this background involves a scene involving rape. The art itself doesn’t depict it explicitly (it is discussed and hinted at in a panel), but the book is wise to warn potential readers about it.
The art does an admirable job depicting a desert world. The art feels consistent with a Dune story, with its combination of technology and sword wielding. In one sequence, the art cleverly uses the color of robes to subtly aid the reader in distinguishing bundled up characters. There is a fair amount of violence, but it isn’t terribly bloody. With that said, due the subject matter, I do recommend a little parental discretion.
If you like Dune, you’ll definitely enjoy this story. If you haven’t read any of the books or seen the movie, this is a low cost way to dip your toe into the world of Dune.
Dune: The Waters of Kanly #1 is now available.
Are you going pick up the comic? Have you already? Feel free to leave a comment below or chat with us on Twitter at @TheConCollectve!
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