‘Falconspeare’ GN (review)

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.