As we continue the origin story of the Fox Mask Killer, we also learn more about Lady Carolina. Charlotte Blackburn is front and center in this issue and we find out more about her and how her relationship with Naomi began. As Naomi is being drug back into the world of assassinations for the very survival of her daughter. Charlotte has a new toy to exact her way and get what she wants, even if it is at the expense of her sisters’ feelings.
Exquisite Corpses: Fox Mask Killer #2 – Written By Che Grayson – Art By Adam Gorham - Colors By Jordie Bellaire – Letters By Becca Carey - Edited By Steve Foxe, Greg Lockard, and Eric Harburn - Published By Tiny Onion/Image Comics
Credit: Tiny Onion/Image Comics
*** POSSIBLE SPOILER WARNING ***
WRITING:
The more we learn about Naomi, the more her character becomes complex. Che Grayson is really making us realize that there is a lot of nuances to the popular killer. Naomi is definitely more than a pretty face and a badass assassin; she’s a caring mother whose motivations are tied to the love for her daughter. For her the ends truly justify the means. At the same time, the way Grayson portrays Charlotte is the exact opposite. She is a sociopath that will stop at nothing to get what she thinks is hers. Only power and money matter to Charlotte, even the love of her sister isn’t a priority in her life. The fact that she is willing to destroy her sisters shot at happiness just because she doesn’t want to share power is very telling. Grayson shows us all of that and makes sure we know that we can’t trust Lady Carolina, but at the same time puts the care of Willa in her hands. This foreshadows that something bad is more than likely to happen in the future.
ARTWORK:
The artwork in this issue continues the trend of amazing artwork in this series and this extended world. Adam Gorham captures the world of Exquisite Corpses, well adding his own flare to it. This issue feels more grounded well still delivering some stunning action and horror inspired art. The action sequences look crisp and exciting; well the gorier scenes stand out and make the reader cringe a bit. But where Gorham truly excels in this issue is the drama and emotional scenes. This builds on how Naomi feels and her motivations, well not having to over explain them. Seeing the feelings and things she is going through will make even the coldest person feel for her and her plight. Jordie Bellaire brings that signature Exquisite Corpses color scheme to the issue, letting the reader know from page one what universe we are in. Speaking of signature styles of the universe, Becca Carey delivers that with the lettering as well. Together this art team keeps this story in universe well still making it feel original to this story.
check out my review of exquisite corpses: FOX MASK KILLER #1
Final Thoughts:
Exquisite Corpses: Fox Mask Killer #2 deepens Naomi’s story by putting her love for her daughter up against Charlotte’s ruthless pursuit of power. Che Grayson builds tension through that contrast, while Adam Gorham’s expressive artwork gives the emotional moments as much impact as the action and horror. Jordie Bellaire’s colors and Becca Carey’s lettering keep the issue firmly rooted in the world of Exquisite Corpses without sacrificing its own identity. With Willa’s care in untrustworthy hands, I’m eager and a little nervous to see what comes next. If you’ve been following the Fox Mask Killer’s origin, this issue deserves a spot on your reading stack. Pick up a copy at your Local Comic Shop, add the series to your Pull List, and let your shop know which covers you want before placing your order.
FINAL GRADE: 9.5/10
Let me know your thoughts on Exquisite Corpses: Fox Mask Killer #2 in the comments below. Thanks for reading!
