We’re getting to know the family better in issue 2 of The Family Trade, from Image.
As you may recall from the first issue, this story takes place in a neutral trade zone, on the sea. It involves a ‘family’ who monitor the trade zone, making sure it operates efficiently. Sometimes this ‘monitoring’ includes ‘murdering’, when necessary.
Our main character is Jessa, a young “assassin-in-training”. In issue 2, Jessa tries to escape imminent danger, but she’s not too sure on her feet. She then seeks advice from Ri, young street musician, and who despite being a petty thief, looks like she is becoming a friend to Jessa. The story continues with an undercover assignment for Jessa. One with plenty of danger.
The writing and art is improved in this issue; I felt as if I was getting to know the characters, and starting to care about them.
This book would appeal to teens; there are moments of young angst that really come across. Art-wise, the water-colour and ink technique felt stronger in this issue, with more definite colour and thicker black line. The colour palette is rich in oranges, greens, and blues, making reading this series a real pleasure. Let’s hope Jessa can outwit her foes and stay on her toes for many more issues to come!
Written by Justin Jordan and Nikki Ryan, with art by Morgan Beem.
Image Comics The Family Trade #2, $3.99 for 32 pages of content. Rated Teen.
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