Graphic Novel Review: Outcast- Darkness Surrounds Him (Vol. #1)

Author| Robert Kirkman
Artist| Paul Azaceta
Edition| eARC courtesy of Netgalley
Publisher| Image Comics
Genre| Paranormal/Horror
Rating| 4 Stars
Release Date| January 15th, 2015

I received a copy of Outcast from Image Comics via Netgally in exchange for an honest review.  Thank you!

I know Robert Kirkman is a pretty big name right now (he's the guy behind Walking Dead) but this is the first creation of his I've delved into.  And I like it.  I know that this was being considered as a TV show last year or so, and while I don't know whatever happened with that plan, I think it would work perfectly.  While reading it all I could think was "this would fit perfect on the small screen", so fingers crossed it happens.

Outcast is about Kyle Barnes, who has been surrounded by demonic possessions his whole life.  And, according to the pastor, he seems to have a knack for exorcisms.  So now the two of them are on a quest to discover what he is- the only clue is the title "Outcast".

Pretty decent idea, although it reminds me a little of Hellblazer, to be honest.  I liked the characters, they easily jumped off the page and were well-rounded.  Each of them seems to have a back-story, Kyle's being especially tragic.  The story was quick paced and had me eager to return each time.  It is a comic series, so it leaves you wanting more at the end and wraps up absolutely nothing, so if you're not in for the long haul maybe don't pick this up.

I have very little to say about this book, though.  It was good, but not great.  Interesting, but not unique.  I can't gush about it, but I would never hate on it.  So... I'm at a fork in the road.  I gave it four stars instead of three because of the art.  This I can gush about.  It was gorgeous- simple and detailed at the same time.  Gritty but not over the top for a horror series.  I love it.  I would buy it for the art alone; return to the series for the art alone.  So if you want to be in awe of Azaceta, please pick this one up.