The Sacrificers #7
Review
Writer: Rick Remender
Artist: Max Fiumara
Publisher: Image Comics
Release Date: April 3, 2024
Page Count: 32
Format: Single-issue
The Sacrificers starts its second story arc strong with an issue that’s dark, emotionally gripping, and artistically beautiful. It’s a reminder of why it’s one of the best titles ongoing right now from Image Comics.
The Sacrificers #7
ReviewWriter: Rick Remender
Artist: Max Fiumara
Publisher: Image Comics
Release Date: April 3, 2024
Page Count: 32
Format: Single-issue
The Sacrificers starts its second story arc strong with an issue that’s dark, emotionally gripping, and artistically beautiful. It’s a reminder of why it’s one of the best titles ongoing right now from Image Comics.
Rick Remender is one of those comic creators today whose immense body of work speaks volumes. Not only is he a creative workhorse who consistently releases new comics, but each title part of his Giant Generator imprint feels like a trip into imaginative new worlds. His works can range from the grounded and punk rock-infused Deadly Class to neo-dystopian tales like Tokyo Ghost. Then, there’s The Sacrificers, a beautifully dark fantasy series that is shaping up to be one of Remender’s best series to date. With the release of its seventh issue, the series enters its second story arc, continuing the tragic tale of Princess Soluna. For my full thoughts on the new comic, continue reading my review below!
Image: Image Comics
Overview
After the murder of Luna, the goddess of the Moon, the tides throughout Harlos are in total chaos. A humble and devoted village comes face-to-face with a force of nature strong enough to challenge the gods. Meanwhile, Soluna fights for her life after narrowly escaping the clutches of her captor. With her godly power drained, she must scrap through a dangerous wilderness with whatever strength she has left. But little does she know that there are horrors surrounding her that she never would have imagined.
Review
The Sacrificers was one of my favorite series last year because it felt like reading a masterclass in world-building. Each issue carefully explored the different facets of Harlos in brutal detail, from the tragic culture of the peasants to the horrifying traditions that keep the gods in power. With so much about the world and characters already established from that first arc, this latest issue hits the ground running to deliver more of what makes the series an incredible read. If you thought the story couldn’t get any heavier than issue #6, then be prepared for this latest one because it’s another dark and emotional gut punch. Issue #7 brings a unique twist to the series by having the narration read like a whimsical storybook. But while flowery and flowy words express stories about Harlos, they are juxtaposed against some of the most chaotic and horrifying visuals in the series. I was blown away by how much the artwork of Max Fiumara, Dave Stewart, and Rus Wooton elicited palpable feelings of dread and terror as I read through this haunting issue.
Image: Image Comics
Interestingly, this issue does not feature Pigeon at all, keeping the continuation of his story still a mystery. Instead, the story is split into two distinct parts. The first half shows the cataclysmic effects Luna’s death is having on the world, while the second half follows Soluna’s powerless and lonely struggle through the forest. Because the issue focuses on only these two stories, the events that take place feel like they have room to breathe and develop. What unfolds in Soluna’s part of the story may be one of the most compelling developments in the series. The narration in the second half bears a haunting message about how the world will always push people to a breaking point. It sends a painful and foreboding message that this story has only scratched the surface of how dark and brutal it can be. Again, I can’t stress enough how incredible the art is in this issue. You can see from the painful expressions on Soluna’s face to the terrifying beasts she sees on her journey there is a sense of horror that permeates across every panel. The art is a big reason why the series’ more shocking moments feel so emotionally impactful, and it’s why I’m obsessed with always going back into this fascinating world.
Image: Image Comics
Final Thoughts
It’s great to have The Sacrificers back. With its incredible art and storytelling, it’s a series that feels fulfilling and gut-wrenching to follow monthly. Among the series that Rick Remender has going on currently, this series feels like it stands head and shoulders above the rest. If these last two issues are any indication, this comic’s dark story is only getting started. The series is primed to be an incredible roller coaster ride of emotions that will only get heavier and more exciting with each new installment. I’ll even go as far as to say that The Sacrificers is a modern fantasy classic in the making, and it’s only just in its seventh issue.
Why You Should Read The Sacrificers
- The art in this issue is haunting and emotionally impactful.
- This issue sends a message that the story is going to get much darker from here.
- The world of Harlos continues to be one filled with plenty of terrifying surprises.