Hellblazer #188 Review

Archive

Reviewer: Mathan Erhardt
Story Title: Bred in the Bone, part 2

Written by: Mike Carey
Penciled and Inked by: Doug Alexander Gregory
Colored by: Lee Loughridge
Lettered by: Clem Robins
Editor: Will Dennis
Publisher: Vertigo/DC Comics

The issue begins with Ghant explaining why he prefers working with bone rather than flesh, in a very disturbing monologue. During his explanation we get to see the Gruinard kids take on a different form. Ghant then sends Gemma on her mission to the island. We get to see her confront her fears and the Gruinard kids. It is due to Paul’s (he’s one of the more level headed kids) intervention that she survives her encounter.

We also get to see some more flashbacks to what Ghant, John and Bentham originally did on the island all those years ago. Gemma puts all the pieces together and decides to ruin the puzzle. Ghant begins to show his true colors, but once Gemma breaks the spell he has much more pressing concerns. Gemma gains some life long friends, and perhaps an enemy too. She also decides not to follow in Uncle John’s footsteps. Speaking on John, he pops up on the last page declaring that the world is about to end.

Carey did a fine job this issue. Personally I found last issue difficult. But this issue answers every question and clears everything up. Yet it also leaves the door open for possible returns. I found this issue to be very satisfying and I can’t wait until the next installment.

I’m in love with Gregory’s art. It really matched the feel of the story and characters. The use of light and shadows is kind of spooky. You are literally left in the dark sometimes. The Gruinard kids transformation is very well rendered. This was a bloody issue, but not too bloody. I also appreciated how the flashbacks were colored it really avoided confusion well.

I’m pretty excited about next issue. This book may not be at the top of my read list, but it rarely disappoints.