Having been summoned from the dead to aid the allies against the Hexencorp of evil witches, Cojacaru The Skinner is unleashed to take them to the grave.
But the battle may prove challenging as Cojacaru and her allies will have to work together if they are to accomplish their mission and survive in the process!
Writing: Mike Mignola and Christopher Golden deliver a fitting conclusion to this 2 issue mini-epic. Despite Cojacaru’s stoic demeanor, there’s subtlety with her dialogue that gives her humanity with some dry wit that leaves readers wanting to see more from her. Thankfully, the writers provide that as Cojacaru, and her allies plan and charge into battle. The Hexencorp continues to be a terrifying presence that begs for more exploration. With that being said, that’s the one problem that I have with this book: I wished that it was 4 issues instead of 2, because it really is an enjoyable ride from beginning to end! There’s much left to be desired that I would have liked to have seen, and possibly would have benefited the book if they had two extra issues to accompany it. That doesn’t take away from this book as the writing alone makes it a fun read throughout.
The art by Peter Bergting and colorwork by Michelle Madsen is stellar. Both of their combined powers really give this book an aesthetic that looks even better when reading the first issue and second issue in consecutive order. This issue in particular, there is a sense of power that Bergting and Madsen are able to reflect on their art. Some of the best moments about Bergting lies in the quiet moments where the characters are interacting with each other. Those moments are beautifully drawn and with Madsen’s colors, delivers the kind of cinematic atmosphere that the writing requires. The art team manages to deliver and execute that well.
The unsung hero here is Clem Robins. I really enjoyed Clem Robins lettering in this issue. There are panels that could have easily been overwhelmed by the dialogue, yet Robins expertly implements word balloons in effective ways that complement the art beautifully. Because of her choices, the lettering subtly becomes a work of art in it of itself making aesthetically pleasing in conjunction to Bergting’s and Madsen’s art.
Despite my desire for this book to have been a 4 issue mini instead of 2, Mignola, Golden, and the rest of the team expertly display why less is more. And it is apparent as this was a great issue with a fitting conclusion that leaves the reader wanting more of Cojacaru and the world that she resides in. Given that Mignola and Golden are crafting a series of tales that may be of a shared universe, it’s safe to say that Cojacaru is one worth revisiting again. If it hasn’t been clear, I really enjoyed this book immensely. The writing is tight, and the art is solid. This is definitely worth picking up for new comic book day.