It is not often that a period piece comic with unknown characters and situations can make an impression, especially when dealing with sword and sorcery themes; however, when it is done right, the result can really be impressive. This is the case with the new Dark Horse series, Helen of Wyndhorn.

Helen of Wyndhorn is by the team behind Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow – writer Tom King (Batman) and illustrator Bilquis Evely (Wonder Woman) – and is published by Dark Horse Comics. The story contained within is told by Lilith Appleton, a governess who took the job of educating 16-year-old orphan Helen Cole in 1935. Helen’s father was a writer who had recently died, and her grandfather hired Miss Appleton to guide her. Helen is introduced to the reader hungover in a jail cell. She proceeds to drink and smoke her way through the rest of the issue, making life as hard as possible for Miss Appleton. As fun as that is, this is a comic book, after all, and Helen discovers something truly supernatural at Wyndhorn House (the estate of her grandfather) which terrifies both her and Miss Appleton.

This comic is an absolute delight. Tom King has always been a great writer, and it’s wonderful to see him approach something that doesn’t have 80 years of source material to draw from. As great as the story is, the art knocks this issue out of the park. The characters – even the ones in the background- are illustrated with so much personality that they almost leap off the page. Bilquis Evely is a phenomenal artist.

Helen of Wyndhorn is a great comic. It is a fun story with lively, interesting characters. Highly recommended for anyone interested in a fun reading experience.

4 out of 4 stars

Creative Team: Tom King (writer) and Bilquis Evely (artist)
Publisher: Dark Horse Comics
Click here to purchase.