A War is Building in The Marked #9
A new war is brewing on the horizon in The Marked #9. In recent times, there have been several dramatic changes and revelations all over. Now, it seems that all that was merely the framework for what would come.
The series has been shifting so much as of late. It’s been a fascinating run in a world that can be just as dark as bright. Yet I know that the story itself isn’t done, as so many questions remain unanswered. Many of which were raised in this issue.
Writing
The Marked #9, like the rest of the series, was written by Brian Haberlin. I could say many things about this issue, but one feature stood out the most for me. The sheer amount that was balanced within this single issue.
We have multiple creatures, narratives, worlds, and motives all floating around. There’s the continuation of the main plot itself and the establishment of at least one more subplot (realistically, it’s going to be more than that).
One of the new subplots (which I will be intentionally vague about) is a complex being. It’s dark, twisted, and has more than its fair share of anger. Yet it also fits in thematically, showcasing the darker side of magic. Once again.
All these elements weave together, creating a story that I personally can’t help but keep coming back to. It’s been a refreshing and fascinating series that I hope continues for a while. I’m sure I’m not the only one out there.
Art
Brian Haberlin, the writer for The Marked #9, is also the lead artist. His characters really do come to life through his work. More importantly, the details seem to pop out from the pages themselves. Everything from the intricate tattoos to the vibrant magic.
The expressions felt larger than life in this issue – more so than in the previous eight. Perhaps that is to match the scale of what the main characters are dealing with. Either way, there’s no doubting how specific characters feel about any situation.
Geirrod Van Dyke was in charge of the colors, and it’s here that many of the magical elements really do shine. Sometimes literally. The colors add a sense of whimsy, setting the scene and tone. It all appears effortless when I’m sure that it’s anything but.
Francis Takenaga was the artist responsible for the lettering, which is pure perfection. It’s the final touch required, not just in general but specifically for this issue. Personally, I would love to know a bit more about the languages portrayed within.
Conclusion
The Marked #9 brings a heaping load of suspense, magic, and wonder. Though perhaps not quite in that order. It made for a fascinating read, one all the more intense for the new subplots introduced.
On that note, with everything going on, waiting for the next issue will be difficult. Yet there’s little doubt that it will be worth it.
This review was originally written for Word of the Nerd, but has been ported over to Quirky Cat’s Fat Stacks now that the site has shut down.
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