Welcome to an all new edition of Parlay Points, the comic book review blog for the ODPH Podcast!

For this entry, we’re checking out a one-shot from one of the best comic series currently being published. Something Is Killing the Children from Boom! Studios never falters on delivering quality each issue. It’s spin-off, House of Slaughter, has been a great companion book highlighting certain characters from the Order of St. George.

BOOK OF SLAUGHTER #1 by James Tynion IV, Werther Dell’Edera, Miquel Muerto, AndWorld Design (with Letizia Cadonici, Francesco Segala, Chris Shehan, Antonio Fuso and Dylan Todd) is a separate tale highlighting a notable character in the Order while unveiling some secrets along the way. Let’s take a closer look at this very important issue in the SIKTC universe, shall we?

BOOK OF SLAUGHTER #1 - On Sale December 28th, 2022
Creative: James Tynion IV and Werther Dell’Edera, Miquel Muerto and AndWorld Design (with Letizia Cadonici, Francesco Segala, Chris Shehan, Antonio Fuso and Dylan Todd (Cover by Dan Mora)
Credit: Boom Studios

Before we get started, How absolutely AMAZING is this cover by Francis Manapul?!

*** POSSIBLE SPOILER WARNING ***

This issue kicks off with a closer look at Maxine Slaughter. Maxine is in possession of a bloodied Black Mask along with her own White Mask. In the lore of The Order of St. George, the monster hunters are classified by their garb. Black Masks are solo hunters while White Mass roam in a pack. Maxine is confronted by Paris and Tybalt, a pair of White Mask twins who see Maxine is contemplating a major decision.

The story then flashes back to one of the darkest moments in SIKTC lore: The day Aaron Slaughter was killed. Maxine and fellow White masks are standing around his body. Maxine is told to get in a car by the alpha of her pack, Cecilia who presents her with a unique circumstance. With Aaron deceased and Erica Slaughter now separated from the House, there is a huge need for Black Masks.

Readers now see a shift in the tale as Maxine starts investigating Erica Slaughter. The revaltions falling out from this leads to Maxine diving into the lore of the Order of St. George. What does Maxine discover about the Order? Is she ready for what’s unfolding? Get ready for an exclamation point ending that will have the SIKTC fandom talking about after this conclusion.

The story unraveling in this issue proves to be a solid companion to the other series while standing on its’ own. Maxine’s tale kicks off with an interesting challenge that (to my knowledge) hasn’t been brought up before. Switching Masks isn’t as simple as grabbing a new veil. Seeing how impactful this can be add more weight to what readers expect from each group.

The writing fully breaks down everything involved with the order and is a great reference point to characters in these books. The breakdowns do not take anything away from Maxine’s quest for knowledge. The finale lives up to the build. It will make for some interesting stories following the end of this chapter.

The artwork stands on its own as well. At this book’s core, it’s all about Maxine’s choice more that the background of the order. Take nothing away from that presentation. It stood out and presents much clarity behind this mysterious place. What readers will take away more is the emotional toll Maxine is hit with during her decisions.

The impact of Aaron Slaughter affected more than anyone (including) the Order realized. The conversations between Cecilia and Maxine convey those feelings with the panel breakdown of the car ride right after seeing Aaron’s body. The final image leaves no doubt about how things are changing for the Order. Readers should be expecting big repercussions from this issue moving forward.

FINAL POINT: 8.5

Book of Slaughter #1 gives sensational insight to readers about the inner workings of the Order of St. George. However, it is one member’s looming proposition and answer that will be the lasting impression felt by fans, all due to a well-crafted story matched with stunning art. This is a must-have for any fan of SIKTC lore and anyone looking to check this world out.

Hit me up on ODPH socials and let me know what you thought of Book of Slaughter #1. Thanks for reading.

BOOK OF SLAUGHTER #1 (BOOM STUDIOS)

Ken M