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Writer: Patrick Horvath Artist: Patrick Horvath Letterer: Hassan Otsmane-Elhaou Cover Artist: Patrick Horvath Publisher: IDW Publishing
SPOILER: I have never read this series until this review, so you will get by far the epitome of an Official OFF THE CUFF review. But we reviewed it three issues back right HERE!
The Story
There is some sort of Serial Killer on the loose in the small town of Woodboork. The inhabitants are anthropomorphized creatures. Sam Strong, A very normal looking Brown Bear, is the number one subject she is on “The Lamb” hiding.
While Nigel, a late teen mouse with a proclivity for taking photos (eyeing his next target), Sam is an old acquaintance of Nigel’s mother, so apparently, both Nigel and Sam are at odds for some reason, with both of them trying to take each other out.
Nigel tries to frame Sam so he can keep up with his “activities,” and Sam tries to pin Nigel to take the heat off of her. BUT THEY ARE BOTH KILLERS!!!
The Art
WOW! Let’s start off with the book’s very unassuming, lighthearted look when you see it from afar and in the comic shop. You think, “Oh, this will be a great book for the beginner reader in your life.” Upon reading, you say, “OH, IT LOOKS LIKE DEXTER AND ARTHUR TEAMED UP.”
Aside from that, the texture and palette also evoke a sense of comfort and warmth. But looking at murder through the style of lens is not only gory but surprisingly palatable.
Out on a Limb
This was an enjoyable, if not twisted, book, which has now given me a Boondock Saints perspective on the story. Now I have to go back and read 1-5, knowing where it will end up. I really hope this gets done as a Trade Paper Back or, even better a hard-cover that you can disguise on your shelf and catch your friends off guard with.
Beneath the Trees Where Nobody Sees is a 10 out of 10
It’s perfect, a little odd with the stylistic choice, but as a murder story, PERFECT! Patrick Horvath should stay in this world and tell more stories; I would love a mystical murder mystery. Could you imagine a cult of Devil worshiping Goat people? My mind is spinning with possibilities.
Lastly, because this gave me so many throwback 80s Reading Rainbow vibes, I would be remiss if I didn’t quote the great Levar Burton, “But you don’t have to take my word for it!”
Come on back to see my OFF THE CUFF REVIEWS here on Nerd Initiative. Where do you think the story could go? Leave your comments below. Please consider following me personally at OFF THE CUFF TOM Don’t forget to support your LCS.
