The finale to one of the creepiest ghost stories is out today. We explore its haunting pages to answer the question: is it good?
Deadman: Dark Mansion of Forbidden Love Book 3 (DC Comics)
So what’s it about? The summary reads:
Will Deadman escape the dark magic of the mansion? Will Berenice accept Nathan’s proposal? Will Sam reveal their true feelings for Berenice? Will the shocking nature of Adelia’s murder be revealed? Answers to all these questions and more—in the stunning finale to this epic gothic romance!
Why does this book matter?
Aside from the intriguing story, the use of Deadman, and the gorgeous painterly art you also have the ability to solve the mystery by reading this book.
Fine, you have my attention. What’s good about it?
The issue begins…
The mood, atmosphere, and general storytelling ability of Sarah Vaughn come together quite nicely with this book (and the first two iterations too). If you’re a Halloween nut it’s a good bet the collected edition of this book should be on your to-buy list. There’s a general sense of dread and mystery that permeates this issue that helps give you the heebie jeebies. You get a sense of where the threat is coming from, but not how it all comes together. Thankfully you learn everything in this issue and the answers don’t disappoint.
The relationship between Berenice and Sam is also developed well here. The previous issues sometimes felt as though they were attempting to make this bond between the characters work without enough time devoted to it, but not so here. By the end of this issue you’ll believe in their union and be rooting for them all the way through. The character work for both is clear and builds well to the finale.
The art by Lan Medina is exceptional as well. The ghost visage has an interesting blue glow that works and her clothes have a flowy nature that suits the type of ghost she is. Medina does a good job with layouts, with panels bleeding into each other in a way to give scenes a dreamlike quality. That keeps the creepy mood high throughout.
It can’t be perfect can it?
I know Berenice’s relationship wasn’t all that great, but I was reading this issue fearing she’d get over him at the drop of a hat and…she kinda does. It’s somewhat silly in some respects, though it makes sense given you have to wrap up the story in a satisfying way. It makes the conclusion somewhat predictable and makes Berenice look a bit cold hearted.
Why do I find the way he hovers creepy?
Is It Good?
This is a fine conclusion to a series that offers strong character work in a haunting and atmospheric package. A haunting murder-mystery with the suspense you should expect from the best horror tales.
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