The year is 2844. Life is filled with uncertainty and war. Avalon, once ruled by Arthur McBride, has since collapsed into disrepair after the fall of his dictatorship. The struggle for control seems focused around one reporter’s quest to decipher the journal of Maia Reveron who happens to be closely related to the former tyrant.

Gabriel Hardman and Corinna Bechko bring their third story arc of Invisible Republic to Image Comics. This comic book is crafted with wonderful style, as each panel flows seamlessly from one to the next. Hardman’s artwork is filled in by colorist Jordan Boyd who distinguishes two timelines by color: present day and 42 years earlier during the civil war following the rule of McBride.

Present day takes a look at Earth, a world too polluted to travel outside without a spacesuit. The colors are somewhat muted as the reporter, Croger Babb, enters the last stop on his “book tour.” His descriptions of the current political state describe a government trying to erase Reveron’s own motivations for doing “what’s best for Avalon.” Boyd’s ability to mix dark colors around Babb’s audience coincide with their questions of Reveron’s character, which truly bring the reader to wonder – can this Reveron be trusted?

42 years earlier is presented with added color; raincoats, vegetation, and wildlife are highlighted with subtle hues that pop from the softer tones throughout the rest of the pages. This flashback represents a small glimpse into the life of Maia Reveron. She lives on a planet lush with life, and despite her forced isolation with a friend, it doesn’t deter her thought that it’s still a wonderful adventure. Her mentality presents a glimpse into the person people might rally behind and hopefully bring peace to a dysfunctional society.

This comic book provides its reader with imagery that is easily distinguishable and language that’s straightforward which makes it quite easy to follow despite the unknown motives within the plot. If this is your first glimpse into the world created by Hardman and Bechko, there’s a good chance you’ll want to pick up the first and second volumes instantly! This urge to go back to the beginning will be increased by the desire to find out what happens next after this issue comes to a startling end, making you question everything you just learned.

Invisible Republic #11 includes bonus materials and is now available in print and digital form.