If you’re not familiar with the Reaver comic book series by now, where the heck have you been? No seriously?! The first arc involved five criminal strangers who embarked on a suicidal quest to save the world. There was bloodshed, loads of violence, and someone even ate skin.
Now during the aftermath of the war, one of the literal biggest characters of the series, Essen Breaker, better known as The Devil’s Son is trying to escape war and start a new. But he’s about to learn that no matter where he travels death seems to follow. Writer Justin Jordan returns with the second arc to his hit series with Reaver #7: The Grim After. Along for the ride is new series artist Niko Henrichon who puts down some fantastic pencil work.
The Story
The writing throughout captures the same essence that made us fall in love with the first volume of the Reaver series. Weirdly the story of Essen Breaker feels like Game of Thrones meets Bruce Lee films “The Way of the Dragon” and “Fist of Fury.” The comparison they share is one man trying to start over and trouble making that impossible to happen. It’s the perfect combination of good versus evil. The dialogue matched with the characters feels rich and very authentic, each person stands apart from the next. I think the best thing we learn from this issue is that Essen Breaker just wants to help people. You can think of him as The Equalizer. If the Equalizer was a giant man who could crush your skull as easy as squeezing a tomato.
The Art
Niko Henrichon lays down some strong pencil work during this issue and it only helps enhance the story. Essen Breaker’s arc seems to be a tad bit more serious than the previous so Henrichon manages to match that tone flawlessly. It entrances you in the way that it feels more like you’re watching an episode of a television show more so than reading a comic page. His character designs are incredible, facial features are well detailed and I love the heart that he brings to the story.
The Verdict
Reaver #7 is a great start for the second arc of Jordan’s masterpiece. I can’t wait to see what Henrichon has in store for the issues to follow with his amazing illustrations. There’s a great surprise at the end of this issue that will have fans of the series applauding. Make sure to add this comic to your list during your next trip to the comic shop.
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