ABE SAPIEN #12

Review - Abe Sapien #12

Review by Paul Fiander

Writer:Mike Mignola, Scott Allie
Artist:Max Fiumara
Colorist:Dave Stewart
Cover Artist:Sebastián Fiumara

For an almost silent comic Abe Sapien 12 has an awful lot to say, I know this sounds like a cliché and for that I do not apologise (in this case). This issue finds Abe in Texas searching for answers and instead he finds a whole heap of problems of a rifle and a mistaken identity. Although to be fair Abe does not really like the friendly sort especially when the world is in the grips of a crisis that could spark the end of days.

This issue has three main players and each narrate their story through narration of the past and present. Abe though acts as more of a bit player to an odd couple, holed up in an abandoned shack next to a dry riverbed. It’s an odd to give the least amount of panels to the namesake of the book but in his sparring use Abe seems brilliantly utilised. His part in the story is more a plot device to cause a confrontation and exposure to the story.

I said before the couple are odd and this is because there is only one active member, the other is in the house refusing to leave the room. This is understandable after the pair witnessed the destruction of their homes and lives through supernatural means. The way both characters decide to deal with the changing circumstances tells you a lot about the way people deal with grief. I think it’s fair to say that the impending doom of the world can push people to do desperate things but the way this issue plays out you are never sure of motivations until they are shared with the reader. I enjoy this type of storytelling as it feels like you are living it with the characters involved. Mignola and Scott Allie do a great job in the slow reveal.

The art in this issue is created by Max Fiumara and coloured by Dave Stewart as you can see from the preview images below they do a great job in giving the story a sombre tone. It feels right for the subject matter and drinking the art will help the story to no end.

Abe Sapien is one of Dark Horse’s best series at the moment, the variety of encounters are making each issue fell different and most of all engaging. Although not the perfect jumping on point, this issue will give you a great insight into what to expect from the world of Abe.