Hornsby & Halo #1 Review: Beyond Good and Evil

Hornsby & Halo #1

Review

Rating

8

Good

Writer: Peter J. Tomasi

Artist: Peter Snejbjerg

Publisher: Image Comics

Release Date: November 27, 2024

Page Count: 40

Format: Single-issue

Hornsby & Halo #1 kicks off a delightful new series that blends the cosmic with the daily life of young teenagers. While the premise takes some time to set up, it lays a strong foundation for an intriguing exploration of nature versus nurture through the lens of its charming lead characters.

Hornsby & Halo #1

Review

Writer: Peter J. Tomasi

Artist: Peter Snejbjerg

Publisher: Image Comics

Release Date: November 27, 2024

Page Count: 40

Format: Single-issue

Hornsby & Halo #1 kicks off a delightful new series that blends the cosmic with the daily life of young teenagers. While the premise takes some time to set up, it lays a strong foundation for an intriguing exploration of nature versus nurture through the lens of its charming lead characters.

Rating

8

Good

As 2024 comes to a close, Ghost Machine continues its hot streak this year of standout titles with Hornsby & Halo. Following the successful takeoff of The Rocketfellers, writer Peter J. Tomasi is back with another all-ages tale set within Ghost Machine’s ever-expanding universe. This time, he's joined by artist Peter Snejbjerg to deliver a story that balances good and evil, blending cosmic stakes with a fresh, coming-of-age twist. Curious to see what’s in store for this intriguing story of good and evil? Keep on reading for my full review to find out! 

Overview of Hornsby & Halo #1

Hornsby & Halo opens with a war between Heaven and Hell that leaves both realms in ruins. To broker peace, the two sides agree to a radical experiment: the celestial boy Zach Halo and infernal girl Rose Hornsby are sent to Earth to be raised by adoptive families. However, there's a catch—Zach is placed in a toxic environment that challenges his angelic nature, while Rose is nurtured in a loving home despite her infernal roots. Now teenagers, Zach and Rose are blissfully unaware of their true identities, but their lives take a dramatic turn as their latent powers suddenly awaken.

Image: Image Comics

Review

While the angel-and-devil premise inevitably draws comparisons to books like Good Omens, Hornsby & Halo takes a fresh approach by exploring its story through the lens of adolescence and self-discovery. This debut issue introduces readers to Zach and Rose, focusing on their contrasting lives, and the central theme of nature versus nurture. Writer Peter J. Tomasi shows off his knack for crafting authentic, emotionally grounded characters. Both Zach and Rose feel like relatable kids with their struggles of wanting to do more than what their world lets them. This dynamic sets up rich potential for growth and conflict as the series progresses.

The issue shines brightest in its character-driven moments. Zach and Rose’s mirrored experiences highlight both their differences and their unspoken connection, laying the groundwork for a story that feels as personal as it does cosmic. Tomasi’s writing brings depth to their teenage struggles while teasing the grander implications of their hidden identities.

Image: Image Comics

However, the issue really hits its stride by its tail-end when Zach and Rose’s more supernatural natures begin to surface. The pacing picks up, injecting an energetic twist that hints at the chaos and self-discovery to come. It leaves you with just enough of a tease to want to see how the two kid’s fated paths will eventually intertwine. 

Peter Snejbjerg’s art is also a perfect match for the series’ tone. His clean, expressive lines and rounded character designs strike a great between grounded realism and whimsical fantasy. The parallels between Zach and Rose’s lives are visually stunning, with mirrored layouts that subtly reinforce their connection. Colorist John Kalisz enhances this dynamic with warm, inviting tones for Rose’s world and darker, colder hues for Zach’s, visually emphasizing the stark contrasts in their upbringings.

My one gripe with this comic is that, while the premise is undeniably intriguing, the first third of the issue leans heavily on exposition to establish the story. While the setup is essential, it slows the pacing early on. Once the narrative shifts to Zach and Rose’s teenage lives, however, the comic finds its rhythm, balancing emotional stakes with bursts of energy and humor.

Image: Image Comics

Final Thoughts

Hornsby & Halo #1 is a promising start to another family-friendly gem from Ghost Machine. Tomasi and Snejbjerg weave a story that effortlessly blends cosmic grandeur with the relatable ups and downs of teenage life. While the issue takes its time setting the stage, it successfully introduces the comic’s two endearing protagonists, a fascinating central conflict, and plenty of room for character development.

With its charming blend of heart and the supernatural, Hornsby & Halo has the potential to become a standout in Ghost Machine’s growing library of creator-driven titles. As Zach and Rose grapple with their true natures, readers can expect a thought-provoking exploration of identity, choice, and destiny.

Why You Should Read Hornsby & Halo:

• A unique blend of cosmic conflict and relatable teenage drama
• Expressive, vibrant artwork that enhances both the fantastical and mundane elements
• Thought-provoking exploration of nature versus nurture themes
• A lighthearted yet emotionally resonant story perfect for all ages