Rebels 1

In a rush of great public resistance to an oppressive and excessive government, a homegrown militia movement is formed in rural America. This is not 2015, but 1775. With the war for independence playing out across the colonies, young Seth and Mercy Abbott find their new marriage tested at every turn, as the demands of the frontlines and the home front collide.

Dark Horse has long been a standard of excellence in independent comics, and the first issue of Rebels is no exception.  This book follows young revolutionary Seth Abbot through a series of epic ups and downs during the course of the American war for independence.

The first installment of the series features lush prose that captures a sense of bleak desperation, contrasted by an earnest hope for the future.  Brian Wood, the writer, sets a brilliant dynamic between his narration and the dialogue of his characters.  Where the narration is introspective, the dialogues is plain spoken, and lending the comic a nice balance.

The art is simply beautiful, capturing the tone of the time period.  Andrea Mutti's rendering of the muzzle flashes, is heart stopping, while Jordie Bellaire's colors make each panel pop.  The artist manages to capture the gritty revolutionary lifestyle on a back drop of the majestic New England countryside.

A few minor areas of improvement are that outside of the guns firing, the action seems a little static, lacking the kind of Kirby-esque energy that really brings scenes to life.  Wood also misses a few opportunities to flesh out Seth and other characters before dropping major plot revelations.  All in all though, a fantastic book that is well worth the money.

For more information about Rebels or other great titles from Dark Horse Comics visit Dark Horse Comics.

Geek-o-Rama received a copy of this book for the purpose of this review. All thoughts, comments and opinions belong to the individual reviewer.