GVN Talking Comics Review: Mad Cave Studios ‘The Devil That Wears My Face’ By David Pepose And Alex Cormack – “…answers all the questions of what makes a great horror story.”

In 2023

When Mad Cave announced “The Devil That Wears My Face” in 2023, it boasted two notable strengths. Firstly, the acclaimed writing of David Pepose.  David’s previous work ‘Scout’s Honor’ was a 2021 Talking Comics favorite. Second, an intriguing premise paired with the artistic prowess of Bram Stoker Award nominee Alex Cormack. Described as a blend of “The Exorcist” and “Face/Off,” it met those expectations. The trade paperback (TPB) is set for release on July 10th. Thus, offering an opportunity for those who missed out to delve into Pepose and Cormack’s intense and gripping saga. The narrative leaps in with both feet right from the first page, as it follows Father Franco Vieri, Maria, and Santiago Izana on a path of faith, guilt, and courage as they confront the demon known as Legion.

Setting the Hook

In this six-part series, the creative team wasted no time in setting the demonic hook into the reader. Starting with the possession of Santiago and his father’s desperate desire to free him. The results of which was the gruesome deaths of three priests. It was hoped that with Father Vieri’s skill at exorcism, he might succeed where others had failed. Plus, with the Vatican’s monetary issues, Vieri’s triumph might also lead to filled coffers for the church.  Unfortunately, the only thing filled was Vieri’s body as Legion took over the priest and used his newly gained identity to pursue his own evil plans. All the while, the actual priest must convince Maria and other’s that he is in fact Father Vieri while he still looks like the controlled Santiago. Considering the nature of possession, that would be a tall mountain to climb.

Answering all the Questions

Right from the start, The Devil That Wears My Face performs a possession of its own. It takes over the reader and compels them to obtain each chapter to see how Vieri and Maria will defeat Legion and hopefully, rescue Santiago.  All the while taking advantage of the vast artistic skills of Cormack, to bring to visualization, the horrific work of a demon who has finally met a worthy adversary. Add it all up and The Devil That Wears My Face answers all the questions of what makes a great horror story. Be sure to “possess” your own copy on July 10th.

Mad Cave Studios “The Devil That Wears My Face,” TPB by David Pepose, Alex Cormack and Justin Birch hits stands July 10.