Review: The Hunger and The Dusk #2

The product of writer G Willow Wilson’s love of sci-fi and fantasy, Hunger and the Dusk issue#1 was met with rave reviews for its epic high fantasy story that aced the hallmarks of the genre while carving out an intriguing lore all its own. And now that I’ve finished both opening instalments; I’m fully converted into the positive critical mindset surrounding this astonishing new Fantasy series from IDW!

Issue#1 saw Orcs and Humankind, once sworn enemies, put aside their differences to ally against a common foe, the Vangol, who attacked from across the seas and threaten to destroy their world. Issue 2 rejoins Human warrior Callum Battlechild, Tara, the Orc healer & Callum’s band of Last Men Standing mercenaries as they band together to hunt the Vangol hoards. Elsewhere, Troth Icemane and Faran Stoneback are dealing with an awkward arranged Orc relationship, which comes with a quest in the hazardous, wolf-infested mountains! G Willow Wilson showcases effortless world-building skills and lives deep within each character’s head, creating a rich, immersive reading experience. The dialogue and character development dance together perfectly as each player begins to form a more solid identity in a developing saga that promises more drama and intrigue down the line.This is a story of love and companionship at its heart, and the romantic elements drive the broader conflict-based narrative. All this combines to create a strong familiarity within only the first two issues.

Chris Wildgoose is one of those artists whos names I’d heard (whispered on the far winds) but had not yet experienced. The Hype is very real. The Hunger and The Dusk is drawn with fine attention to detail and clean lines, that make you feel like you could pick the cloaks off the orc shoulders. But, at the same time the world feels rough and rugged, like a genuine medieval landscape as the action sequences jump across the page with elegant power. Combined,with the Art, the colour work give each character a noble edge, with epic fantasy vibes stretched across the panels filled with rolling hills, snow-covered peaks, and enchanting forests. There’s a natural balance between the battle-hardened warrior energy and the serene fantasy glow that’s so central to the tone of these types of stories.

Hunger and the Dusk continues to be a standout high fantasy epic that commands your attention on all fronts: top-level story development, characterisation, and jaw-dropping artwork.

Writing-5
Art-4
Colors-4

Overall Score 4.5

Writer -G Willow Wilson
Artist – Chris Wildgoose
Colors – Msassyk