Crone #3 is published by Dark Horse Comics, written by Dennis Culver, art by Justin Greenwood, colors by Brad Simpson, and letters by Pat Brosseau. Having survived her less-than-stellar return to the battlefield, Bloody Bliss continues to struggle to find her place in this hard world.
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When I first picked up Crone, it captured my attention with its portrayal of Bliss and her internal strife. Now, however, we’re three issues in and the luster is beginning to fade. It feels like the same conversations continue to recur each issue. And while I appreciate that such problems do not have quick fixes nor easy answers, I can’t help but feel like Bliss’s story is beginning to bog itself down. That’s not to say that Crone #3 is bad. Not at all. It just leaves me hoping that the next issue will put a bit of energy back into the pages.
The pacing of the story is further hindered by the need for exposition about the state of the world. Even though this time spent is useful to help both Bliss and the reader fully understand the world’s situation, the feeling of impending doom had already been solidly established in previous issues. I can’t help but think these panels could’ve been better spent.
The one standout part of the story is the continued development of Gasper’s daughter, Corinne. Culver has managed to keep her from becoming a single-note talking point. While the rest of the cast continues to repeat much of what they have already stated, Corinne continues to grow beyond what I already knew about her. Her ability to see her own shortcomings, rise above them, and even use them to confront others gives her a spark I truly appreciate. She functions as a great foil to Bliss’s stubborn and gloomy perspective and serves to remind the readers that wisdom is not just gifted to those with “experience “. Hopefully, Bliss will be able to take to heart the wisdom Corinne brings to the table.
Crone #3’s art continues its strong support of the narrative. Greenwood does a great job with the combat sequences in this issue. They keep the reader right in among the action within every panel. The illustrations continue to be good. This book reminded me once again how much I love how Simpson colors this book. All my praise from my previous reviews continues to be true here. The color palettes wash each panel with the right emotional energy for the story therein.
So while Crone #3 does feel a little long in the tooth for me, I continue to look forward to future issues. The characters are still strong and, with a bit of forward momentum, I think this book could easily find its way back to greatness. With this book ending with a surprising turn of events, it feels poised to do just that. If you enjoyed the first two issues of this story it is certainly worth hanging in there for now.
Crone #3 is available January 1st wherever Comics are sold.
Crone #3
TL;DR
So while Crone #3 does feel a little long in the tooth for me, I continue to look forward to future issues. The characters are still strong and, with a bit of forward momentum, I think this book could easily find its way back to greatness.
