Black Powder #1 (Asylum Press – Harris)

DOUBLE SIZED FIRST ISSUE!–A Bloody Frontier Adventure!–Set during the catastrophic New Madrid earthquake of 1812.  Black Powder is the story of Robert Young, a former captain in the Barbary Wars, and his river journey on America’s first steamboat to rescue the woman he loves from a gang of river pirates led by his cutthroat nemesis and former commander, Samuel Mason. On the way he encounters hostile Indians, swashbuckling battles, and several historical figures, all set against the backdrop of an earthquake that sinks islands, reverses the flow of the Mississippi river and wrenchingly exposes the fractures of a new nation itself.

Dwayne Harris is a one-man creative team here, bringing into being this very dark and gritty historical fiction story.  Last year, Harris drew the fan-favorite series Warhammer: Crown of Destruction for Boom! After looking at Black Powder, I am not surprised that the man has a degree in painting has been classically trained – It’s a beautiful book!

click below for art samples from the official website!

I think as a story, Black Powder will appeal more to history buffs rather than fans of Johnny Depp (even though most of them will enjoy BP also).  While the book has a high level of action and adventure, it is the gritty historical backdrop that sets it apart from other books in the “swashbuckler” genre.  The solid characters  and well-structured plot-devices keep the reader glued to the story and the rich, gritty, and sometimes even gory, details keep the readers glues to the edge of their seats and wanting to turn page after page.

While $7.95 might scare off some buyers, I think the cover price is fair for this fantastic story that reads much more like an epic graphic novel than a monthly.

The Bottom Line: Great story – Beyond Beautiful art – Instant Epic Indie Classic!

Issue Grade: A

This is out in April, watch for it is February Previews!