Penny Dreadful Volume 1 TPB
Written by Krysty Wilson-Cairns & Chris King
Art by Louie De Martinis
Letters by Simon Bowland
Titan Comics
Release Date: March 1, 2017
Cover Price: $14.99 (Digital)

Last year, I reviewed a new comic that was the beginning of a prequel story to the Penny Dreadful Showtime series. I also mentioned that I had yet to see any of the series, but that initial issue piqued my interest. Well, here we are several months later and I have binge-watched the entire TV series. Suffice to say, I loved it and was extremely happy to see Penny Dreadful Volume 1 TPB in my inbox last week.

Compiling the five issues in the comic book miniseries in Trade Paperback format, this newest release redefines what we know about the characters and their pasts. Revolving around the search for Mina, this story takes our heroes to the hinterlands uninvited. Once there, all hell breaks loose. Literally.

As we explore the depths of the evil that plagues our group, we bear witness to several of their tales. I definitely enjoyed the backstories, it gave a certain perspective on the main characters that I did not even realize was lacking in the television program. This should go without saying, but as with the original show, this is not suitable for children at all.

If you were ever a fan of the series, this is a prequel in all ways to the first season. So if you ever thought Vanessa Ives, Sir Malcolm Murray, or Sembene needed more depth, then this is for you. As I said before, this really was the prequel I didn’t know I needed. I’m sure you’ll find it the same!