Author: Kelly Thompson
Artist: Meredith McClaren
Publisher: Image Comics
Released: September 12, 2023
Find it on Goodreads | More Graphic Novels
Summary:
Kiros is the last city in the world – and it has magic to thank for that. However, all the magic in the world won’t prevent crime, so that’s where the Black Cloaks come in. They are the detectives and police of the city, responsible for capturing criminals and keeping the peace.
Enter Essex and Pax, two Black Cloaks. Pax is one of the best detectives around, while Essex has a complicated history with the Kiros royalty. It makes them the oddly perfect pair to tackle the latest crime – the murder of a Kiros prince.
Writing:
So, I’m very behind on the times here, but I’m finally diving into Black Cloak. I should have done this sooner since one of my favorite comic authors (Kelly Thompson) is at the helm. Even aside from that, Black Cloak has a compelling premise – magical cities, royalty, and a police procedural all wrapped into one. What more could a girl ask for?!
In truth, that summary doesn’t do Black Cloak Vol. 1 justice. One volume in, and we’re introduced to a rich and complex world. The politics grow by the chapter, yet I still want to know more. Likewise, I can’t wait to see more of the world.
The characters and revelations were fascinating. I love how personal stories wove into the main narrative; they worked well to make a more character-driven tale. I don’t know where it will lead from here, but I’m eager to find out.
Art:
Black Cloak Vol. 1 has a very unique art style. It took me a moment to get into the swing of things, but I fell in love once I did. In particular, I love the way the magic is portrayed on the pages. It’s vibrant and mystical (obviously) but in a way that suits a slightly grittier world.
The artwork is also perfectly suited to the more graphic elements of this tale – the murders and violence. It lets the brutality show without becoming distractingly too much.
Highlights:
- Fantasy Meets Detective Storytelling
- Corrupted Magical City
- Magical Creatures Galore
Trigger Warnings:
- Graphic Deaths
- Self-Injury & Suicide
- Creature/Animal Deaths & Abuse
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