Review by Publisher's Weekly Review
Rowan Black is a New England-based cop who is secretly a witch. Writer Rucka (Gotham Central) brings his characteristically thoughtful take on procedural drama; Australian artist Scott (Earth 2) depicts Rowan's world in subtle ink washes. Rowan turns to a coven friend when she finds that a powerful magic user has found out her true identity and is coming for her, and things get worse from there. There are spells, cloudy magical effects, and a screaming harpy for good measure. The artwork is mostly in black and white, with some color for emphasis on magical items or phenomena. The details of Rowan's story sometimes vanish in confusing Law & Order: SVU-style patter, but overall it's a fresh take on the paranormal procedural. Rowan and her partner grow quite charming by the end of the series, leaving lots of questions at its climax. (May) © Copyright PWxyz, LLC. All rights reserved.
Review by Library Journal Review
Starting with a hostage situation that ends with a person self-immolating via a lighter with a special symbol on it, this story features a detective who also happens to be a witch...and the hostage taker's main target. Combining otherworldly forces and warring factions of witches and witch hunters with a crime thriller, Black Magick is an edge-of-your-seat ride with illustrations that stick; Scott's use of mostly gray with flashes of color such as yellow for a demon's eyes or red for blood is extremely effective. Rucka's writing is top-notch, giving main character Rowan Black an edge yet showing her brilliance in detection as well. The mystery that lingers throughout keeps readers engaged, and the few moments of magic enhance the supernatural angle with a creepier vibe. Verdict A perfect blend of genres, this fun and terrific work compels readers to find the next volume. A solid choice for fans of the fantastical in a real-world setting, such as Susanna Clarke's Jonathan Strange & Mr Norrell, John Sandford's "Prey" books, and Jim Butcher's "Dresden Files" series.-Ryan Claringbole, Wisconsin Dept. of Pub. Instruction, Madison © Copyright 2016. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.
(c) Copyright Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.
