Advance Review: Under God One-Shot

In todays world, where there seems to be a huge pressure to buy into a complete truth, it is refreshing to read a book that is looking to challenge two distinct polar opposite ideals. What would you do if your whole world view got turned upside down?

In the Holy United States, Samantha Skylin is about to pledge herself to a mission of mercy to aid the Unbelievers in her very own Almsgiving Day. However, a revolt of sorts takes her from her theocratic existence and into those that she wished to “save”.

Not being a hugely religious person, I found this book a trifle preachy in a pro God manner that I didn’t really appreciate. However, after re-reading the book as part of my research for an interview with with creator Dan Membiela for Outside the Panels (click here to watch), I discovered a layered book that maybe took a West Wing approach to storytelling, where an idea is presented, and then reviews from two perspectives with Samantha being caught in the middle displayed. Membiela’s writing works in both the set-up phase and the more action orientated elements. The religion that does feature in the book is geared towards certain real-life elements, in a respectful manner. Membiela takes the brave step of letting the reader decide, to some extent, who if anyone is in the right.

Membiela also provides the art for the book. Again, at first glance the art may take a you by surprise in it’s simplicity. The idea is that Membila’s art is there to accentuate the story points, along with adding a few little hints and tips along the way. The indie feel of the book works, as does the rawness. I think a polished book may have not worked in the same way, essentially glossing over the problems of this world, and by it’s de facto nature, those of it’s real life inspiration.

The experiences of Sam share influences with Logan’s Run; a world where the lies of Carousel are laid bare, and with the majority of the book used as a staging point of sorts, Membiela cleverly leaves enough in the bank for further issues down the line.

Writing – 5 Stars
Art – 3 Stars

Overall -4 Stars

Written & Art by; Dan Membiela
Published by; Band of Bards

Under God is scheduled for release (APR231243) 28th June 2023

Author Profile

Johnny "The Machine" Hughes

I am a long time comic book fan, being first introduced to Batman in the mid to late 70's. This led to a appreciation of classic artists like Neal Adams and Jim Aparo. Moving through the decades that followed, I have a working knowledge of a huge raft of characters with a fondness for old school characters like JSA and The Shadow

Currently reading a slew of Bat Books, enjoying a mini Marvel revival, and the host of The Definative Crusade and Outside the Panels whilst also appearing on No-Prize Podcast on the Undercover Capes Podcast Network