Tuesday, December 18, 2012

Conan the Barbarian #11

As a general rule, I have so much affection for Robert E. Howard's Conan the Barbarian that I'm happy to follow his adventures, even when the quality of the stories isn't quite up to snuff.

There's no danger of that with the latest incarnation - writer Brian Wood has been crafting some terrific stories set in the time when Conan became a pirate, teaming up (in every sense of the word) with the "goddess" Belit.

The stories have focused on real-world adventures - and the story "The Death" may be the most grimly real yet.

It finds the pirates facing an enemy that can't be overcome by a sword or cunning, as a mysterious disease threatens the life of the crew.

Conan must find a way to fight the invisible enemy - and finds himself facing a crisis of conscience, too.

The art is by Declan Shalvey, and it continues the style of the series - dark, understated and stark. It's a different but effective interpretation of Conan.

To those who haven't been following this series - you're missing out. With a unique style, strong art and terrific writing, this is a comic you should be buying.

If you're already picking it up - carry on.

Grade: A-

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