Writer: Jason Henderson

Artist: Greg Scott, Leslie Ann Barkley(c)

Publisher: Image

I have no idea what to make of Sylvia Faust. It seems to be a slice of life comic book that’s blended with a hint of fantasy. It’s not bad, but it’s not exactly what I look for in a comic book, nor does the cover hint at its themes.

Sylvia Faust is a sorceress or magical being who needs to find a job. Her hunt will remind Buffy the Vampire Slayer fans of Buffy’s dire straits in the sixth season, but Sylvia does not need a job for the sake of her livelihood. Rather she needs one to maintain a façade; for what purpose is anybody’s guess.

This brings her into the path of a young filmmaker who is currently trying to sober up or straighten out a cult film star. Meanwhile, what appears to be the impending main conflict lurks in the shadows of H.P. Lovecraft.

This is the second Jason Henderson book I encountered, but this one comes across a little more focused even if its not really to my tastes. The characters are well written, but this issue is mostly talk and lacks action. The best scene is shared between Stephy-a Slimer—inspired familiar—and Sylvia. It’s notable because it actually does something other than present dialogue.

The artwork by Greg Scott looks like a cross between that of Matt Wagner and Guy Davis. This is again not to say that it’s bad, but the inking is far too heavy, and it gives the whole book a thick feel that does not benefit the talky nature of the story. A crisper line was definitely needed. The colors though are beautiful, but some shadows would be nice.

I can’t really recommend Sylvia Faust. The talent is there, but the story’s far too loquacious for anybody who’s interested in a little magical mayhem, and those who look down on super-hero books and would rather be buying soap-opera styled titles will not appreciate the marginal monsters on the threshold.