The Empty Man #3 from publisher BOOM Studios, written by Cullen Bunn and illustrated by Jesus Hervas, kicks into higher gears of horror.

There is a virus called The Empty Man. It is spreading worldwide, and turning normal people into crazed animals, capable of self-harm and worse.

In issue 3, we learn more about the Whisper Oracles, a mysterious group of individuals who are intent on abducting Melissa and murdering anyone who stands in their way.

It’s a tale full of suspense, creepiness, and horror. There is an epic suburban battle coming between good and evil, and each side is gearing up for war.

Cullen Bunn strikes the right chords in introducing us to the craziness of the Whisper Oracles; their claims are (maybe) plausible enough, but their methods are certainly mad. It’s delicious, this ‘self-forgiving’ aspect of the struggle; the ambiguous motivation of a bunch of mad murderers.

Artwork by Jesus Hervas and colouring by Niko Guardia are also in tune with the story’s drama: darkness hides many sins, and the artwork serves to allow alternating revelation and concealment; so much more the discovery potential for the reader.

BOOM Studios, The Empty Man #3, $3.99 for 24 pages of content. Assume Teen + or Mature for violence

By Alan Spinney

After a career of graphic design, art direction and copywriting, I still have a passion for words and pictures. I love it when a comic book comes together; the story is tight, and the drawings lead me forward. Art with words... the toughest storytelling technique to get right. Was this comic book worth your money? Let's see!!