By Gabe Gonzalez — In terms of comic book storytelling, the dual mystery/horror genre is one that seems to come up rather often, but it never seems to be utilized to its full potential. Written and illustrated by Mirka Andolfo, the new series Mercy features beautiful artwork with strong writing to match. Yet, as the mystery continues…I still haven’t found myself entirely enthralled with the narrative, and I think the book might suffer some of the same issues that other comic book mysteries often do.

The story of Mercy #2 opens with an asylum patient by the name of Rachel being chased by her nurse and doctor. Swirling bluish tones create an environment that gives the reader goosebumps as if they too can feel the temperature within the panels. Then, when Rachel finds a place to seclude herself and keep hidden, she picks a mysterious pinkish flower with a sinister aura that infects her. The colors of this book and the overall artwork allow Mirka Andolfo to keep the narrative entirely her own, as the images within her head match the words in a pitch-perfect synchronization. This well-done fusion of words and illustrations are truly the book’s greatest strength.

Yet, even with that strength, the book seems to be falling into a crisis of pacing as little pieces of threads keep being produced but nothing of significant narrative merit really seems to make itself known. The character of Lady Hellmaine and her arrival seem to be fueled by the mine’s destruction. The ramifications are hinted at and shown as many of the townspeople begin to die by the “Devil of Woodsburgh." While the book showcases a lot of strong work from Andolfo, I don’t think that both issues have delivered as well as they could to keep the audience engaged. To me, the pacing of this story hinders the enjoyment somewhat and would, perhaps, be better to read when it comes out in a trade format so that it could be taken in all at one time.

In the end, though, I think this comic is still great and boasts such a unique feel for a horror story, a feel that isn’t really seen within the same or similar genres. I just feel winded by being granted more narrative threads without any form of capstone, but as the new issues come out hopefully everything will connect into a rewarding story of Lady Hellmaine for the audience.

Overall: The strong visual language and well-crafted art combine perfectly with the dialogue, and the horror narrative Andolfo weaves makes this book unique. Yet, when it comes to the story, the narrative feels like it has plodded for two issues, making this a potential trade wait. 7.0/10

Mirka Andolfo’s Mercy #2
Writer/Artist: Mirka Andolfo
Letterer: Fabio Amelia
Publisher: Image
Price: $3.99
The Woodsburgh Devil strikes again when another innocent victim falls into the clutches of the elusive killer. Meanwhile, Lady Hellaine invites the local bourgeoisie to a social event, attracting the attention of the powerful Lady Swanson. Subterfuge and lies emerge as the second chapter of MIRKA ANDOLFO’s new project divulges a shocking revelation.
Release Date: May 27, 2020
Buy It Online: Click here!

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Gabe Gonzalez