Comic Review: Monstress #22

Monstress #22

Image Comics

Writer: Marjorie Liu

Artist: Sana Takeda

Where do I even begin with this one?

Last issue, Marjorie Liu and Sana Takeda introduced us The Doctor – the leader of the Blood Court, and… Maika’s biological father. He is a descendant of the Shaman Empress and has attracted some of the best living war masters to his cause. When all the forces descend into madness and chaos, the Blood Court will be there to seize power and control. Meanwhile, Zinn was trying to work through some of his own issues and problems, realising that he hasn’t spent a thousand years in slumber because he was tired.

In this issue, our attention is divided between two of the biggest characters in the series – Maika and Kippa. While Maika is attending a meeting of the Blood Court Council, Kippa and her captor are trying to escape the dungeon. The dungeon is home to a Dracul – an ancient being of tremendous power. The Dracul informs the duo that he means them no harm, realising that Kippa is something way more than it meets the eye. The Dracul and Kippa talk, with the Dracul shedding some light on the history and nature of the world. 

Marjorie Liu has put so much effort in her world building over the years and this issue is no different. A lot of story seeds planted in the previous arcs are coming to fruition with this one, giving us probably the best arc so far. The conspiracy grows ever larger and there is a sense of impending doom. The Doctor seems to be in the centre of all these events, but it remains to be seen if he’ll manage to come out on top.

As always, Sana Takeda’s art is phenomenal. The manga-like art style fits this eastern Asian-inspired story and world wonderfully. There is a sense of mystery, beauty, and wonder in every single page, with fantastic character and background designs. Each of the war masters has a distinct look and feel, and the Dracul feels terrifyingly beautiful. Like all cosmic horrors should. 

Another great thing about her art is the colouring and lightning. The somewhat flat and washed-out colouring adds greatly to the atmosphere, giving the book that ‘once upon a time’ look and feel. However, vibrant colours and high contrasts aren’t strangers to her, as Takeda uses them when the need to highlight something arises. She’s just a fantastic artist. Period.

There is so much going on in Monstress. I’m having a really hard time finding something to complain about. From the plotting and characters to the flow and art of the book – everything is spot-on. I look forward to seeing how Maika’s story unfolds in this arc. And maybe, finally, learn what’s the deal with the cutest fox ever.