With so many different books being released, it is no wonder that some might slip through the cracks. And while we at Geek Vibes Nation do our best to keep up, sometimes it happens. When it does, we try to give you the heads up on books and stories you might enjoy. One such tale is Humanoids Nicnevin and the Bloody Queen by Helen Mullane with art by Dom Reardon and Matthew Dow Smith.
This book tells the tale of a rebellious young lady who falls into the charms of an older man who is not what he seems. And when it is being reported that ritualistic murders are being discovered, around the area, her Mother is concerned. Missy has other things on her mind, and his name is Reggie. However, their desires are not the same. She is seeking love and acceptance, while he is looking for a sacrifice. These diverse goals eventually come to a “head,” so to speak.
Writing
Writer Helen Mullane tells a tale mixing British Folklore and Mysticism along with the recognizable woes of teenage angst. These combine together to make a tale worthy of a horror film from a few years back. Nothing can make a teen more vulnerable than the belief that her Mother does not understand her and wants to keep her tied down. Whether it is true or not is not important. Mullane captures these conflicts between Daughter and Mother beautifully, perhaps unfortunately so. With that frame of mind, it is no wonder she falls under Reggie’s charms.
Artwork
When you are doing a somber, dark tale of ritual deaths and mysticism, the art should reflect that. Artists Reardon and Smith do just that. No bright, day-glo colors for this story. Instead, they keep the tones mainly somber and foreboding with great detail shown in the characters, especially Nissy as she is centerpiece to this creation. Although, the blood is red. That part remains as it should. Sacrifice is a bloody thing. Even if your intentions are mistaken.
Thoughts
As a whole, the book is a compelling take with art and word combining to great effect. The character study of Nissy is reason enough to give it a look. It is filled with a classic horror vibe and comes to a conclusion that is equal parts satisfying, sad, and open enough to continue if the author should decide to pursue it. If you, like us, didn’t notice it on its initial release earlier this year, check it out now. For fans of horror and the supernatural, it is well worth the read.
For our followers in the UK, the book is scheduled for release on August 20th. Let us know what you think, here at Geek Vibes Nation.
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Senior Writer at GeekVibesNation – I am a 50 something child of the 70’s who admits to being a Star Trek/Star Wars/Comic Book junkie who once dove head first over a cliff (Ok, it was a small hill) to try to rescue his Fantastic Four comic from a watery grave. I am married to a lovely woman who is as crazy as I am and the proud parent of a 18 year old boy with autism. My wife and son are my real heroes.
