Nocterra #4

Image Comics

Written by Scott Snyder

Art by Tony S Daniel

Colors by Tomeu Morey

Letters by Andworld Design

The Rundown: Time is running out for Emory and trusting his fate to their new passenger is not an easy option.

Val thinks back to the days after the darkness descended and how she went against her instincts in order to listen to Emory. A prospect that leads to the situation they find themselves in now with Emory hanging onto the remnants of his humanity and Val trying to find a way to help him. That means trusting in Bailey to get them to the sanctuary her grandfather talked about. First things first, they need to stop at an abandoned outpost to charge up.

After a harrowing encounter in the town, Val finds something she can use to help her brother as they prepare to move on. With Blacktop Bill still on their trail and getting closer, the group heads to the sanctuary site only to find themselves surrounded by human shades. As they prepare for what might be their last stand, a last minute reveal might hold the key to saving them all.

The Story: The stakes are brilliantly raised for Val and company in this issue. Snyder does an amazing job of moving the action forward while also giving the reader more insight into Val’s personality via the flashback and narration. Snyder has a tremendous eye for mood, tone and pacing. There is an immediacy to the action, but it never overshadows the world building or character development that make the story engaging. Blacktop Bill continues to be menacing and interesting as a character and I cannot wait for his next confrontation with Val.

The Art: Tony S Daniel has a mastery of detail, character design, creature design and imagery that is making him one of my favorite artists and this issue is no exception. There is a richness to the panels that draws the eye and I love the action throughout.

Nocterra #4

9.5

9.5/10

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