The Blackburne Covenant Review

The Blackburne Covenant

Dark Horse Comics
Softcover Trade Paperback
104 pages
$12.95 (2003)
ISBN 9781569718896

Contributors: Fabian Nicieza, Stefano Raffaele, Elena Sanjust, Mike Heisler, and David Nestelle

Reprints: The Blackburne Covenant #1-4 (of 4)

Synopsis: Richard Kaine goes from publishing house drone to international sensation after his first book Wintersong is critically acclaimed.  Now he is pursued not only by fans, but a clandestine organization willing to kill him to learn whether his book is based on truth or fiction. 

Unfortunately, Richard doesn't even know the truth himself and keeps having visions of a plant covered world.  Who are the Blackburne Covenant and what secret did they erase from human history many centuries ago?

Pros: Mildly interesting and eco-friendly concept

Cons: Art is a little rough, story seems rushed

Mike Tells It Straight: I get the feeling Nicieza and Raffaele planned a much grander story than the meager four issues of this mini-series.  They probably had six to eight issues plotted out, but had to cut it down at the last minute.  This story is definitely not The Davinci Code and just wasn't very compelling.  The plant-based theme would have been an excellent Swamp Thing story, but doesn't make it as a solo series.

TO BUY and Recommendations: