PopCultHQ Comic Book Review - "Hellchild" #2 from Zenescope (Available 4/20/16)

PopCultHQ received an advance copy of Hellchild #2 from Zenescope Entertainment which arrives in stores this Wednesday, April 20th. The creative team for this new series features Pat Shand writing, interior artist Vincenzo Riccardi (Wonderland & Aliens vs Zombies), and colorist Eleonora.

Here is PopCultHQ’s spoiler-free review of Hellchild #2…

PopCultHQ’s Comic Book Review: Hellchild #2

Prior to reading and reviewing Hellchild #2 (of 5), I had to familiarize myself with the premiere issue which I missed. What I got was a stimulating and gritty story showcasing a dark fantasy filled with vampires, werewolves, and demons, but also heart.

Angelica Blackstone’s internal turmoil with her rebirth now as a vampire is at the forefront, as she struggles with finding answers as to how she became this way. Her fight with returning to her true form and the sense of something evil possessing her is a fascinating conflict to read. The unquenchable hunger looming at all times, compelling her to crave the sweet warmth of blood for sustainability… a feeling of which she has no control over.

Seeing her father Hades live with regret for his daughter and atoning for his past mistakes, the heartbreak from Angelica as her love from long ago haunts her, and the transformation which has made her fierce and powerful, all combine to catapult the storyline and make for an impressive narrative.

Writer Pat Shand delivers a unique, compelling story that hooks you and keeps you intrigued as the story progresses with its otherworldly tale in the dark, underbelly of New York City. The characters contain a lot of exciting depth to them with even more potential for future issues. I enjoyed the unorthodox relationship Hades is attempting to maintain and rebuild with his troubled daughter. Angelica’s emotions are truly what will drive her and this series as she comes to terms with her new appearance.

The artwork from Vincenzo Riccardi is ideal for this genre of comic book and really captures the essence Angelica’s transformation and her new persona. The difficulty she endures in accepting what she has become is felt through Riccardi’s illustrations. The emotions which writer Shand is trying to express are given life by the artwork, as well as the coloring employed by Eleonora Bruni.

Witchcraft, sorcery, Gods, monsters, demons, vampires, and werewolves… this story has it all! Only two issues in and already this title appears to have the qualities of a long-lasting series which would attract a large fanbase. I expect great things to come from the creative team of Hellchild and anxiously look forward to issue three.

PopCultHQ’s Rating: 4 out of 5 Stars

Available Covers for Hellchild #2 (of 5):

Hellchild #2 (of 5) – “BORN IN BLOOD”

The Story So Far… Thousands of years ago, Hades, the God of the Underworld, had a daughter named Angelica. Because of his own foolish schemes, Angelica was tragically killed. But present day Hades is a changed man. In a committed relationship with vampire hunter, Liesel Van Helsing, Hades has taken to fighting evil. However, as a new threat rises up in New York City, Van Helsing and Hades will be forced to face the consequences of his past evils. This is the story of the Hellchild…

Previously in Hellchild… Liesel Van Helsing and Marian journey to the lower levels of a magical nightclub to stop a group of dark sorcerers from resurrecting the wicked Morgana, but in a twist of fate, Marian takes over the spell and resurrects Hades’ daughter, Angelica. However, when she appears before them, it seems that something has gone terribly wrong… Angelica is a vampire!

Be sure to follow the creative team!

Writer Pat Shand: