Johnny Saturn

Diary of the Black Widow by Bret M. Herholz – Alterna Comics © 2007 – www.alternacomics.com

Reviewed by Benita Story – http://johnnysaturn.com, www.basicallybenita.com

I will start this review off by stating that I am a fan of Edward Gorey’s art. Its dark and somewhat sinister style appeals to the mystery lover in me. This is the first comic book that I have ever seen that has done its best to replicate Gorey’s style, both in art and in story-telling. It reads like something from the 1920’s and could have easily been done as a silent film.

The story begins with the main character, of whom we never learn the name, realizing she has powers over nearly all men and that she sees no reason why she shouldn’t kill them to get what she desires out of life – basically riches and possessions. Her “career” begins at a very early age and continues until she finally meets a man whom she cannot control – the assistant to a detective who is investigating several murders that have taken place at the residence of the main character.

In the end, she is discovered, but the person who reveals what she really is and passes it on to the assistant detective remains a mystery until the very last page. The final outcome is, in itself, a clever twist on the one main stereotype that encompasses the entire genre.

The writinge is light and witty, with a rhythmic pacing that reminds me a bit of Poe. The main character is remorseless in her endeavors, and it is interesting to watch how far she is willing to push the envelope before it bursts. If you enjoy Gorey, Poe and watching a true femme-fatale in action, then you will enjoy this story.