Written by Mike Mignola, Warwick Johnson-Cadwell
Art by Warwick Johnson-Cadwell
Published by Dark Horse Comics
Falconspeare is a new original graphic novel that features characters/story ideas as well as a cover from Mike Mignola with Warwick Johnson-Cadwell doing the story, art, and colors.
Considering everything Johnson-Cadwell does it is a little odd Mignola gets top billing (I mean, the cover is gorgeous), but if knowing Mignola was involved in some fashion helps this book attract some readers that’s a good thing as it’s quite a fun supernatural read.
James Falconspeare hunted vampires with his friends years ago before they all mostly retired.
He recently disappeared from his teaching gig at a university and now has summoned his friends for mysterious reasons to come see him.
Is he okay? Does he need help to kill a vampire that folks have said haunt the area?
The actual answer is a little complicated and carries some twists I won’t spoil. I will say I saw one big twist at the end coming but a twist about one supposed monster Falconspeare discusses encountering did surprise me some.
The story maybe didn’t utterly shock me, but that is perfectly fine as I enjoyed reading it and Johnson-Cadwell’s art was the big draw for me as it is gorgeous. A little minimalist and cartoony without ever feeling lacking, it has a delightful fluidity in moments of action especially. I also like how it carries a nice hint of caricature when it comes to portraying assorted monsters or emphasizing certain features of the living as well. Johnson-Cadwell is skilled at drawing everything from an imposing castle to bloodthirsty undead and every page is a treat for the eyes.
Falconspeare, is a great OGN by Johnson-Cadwell and Mignola (in the capacity he contributed). I would recommend checking it out if you enjoy a good horror-tinged yarn or simply want to admire some fantastic illustrations accompanied by a solid story. I’d give it…
4 out of 5 stars.
