The long wait is finally over! It has been since 2021 that fans have visited the world of Saoirse and friends. Readers have been patient as the cliffhanger ending left many in an uncertain state. Their patience has paid off as March 2025, BOOM! Studios announced the fantasy adventure was returning later in the year. Who’s ready for a little magic on NCBD?
The Last Witch: Blood & Betrayal #1 by Conor McCreery, V. V. Glass, Natalia Nesterenko & Taylor Esposito ( Ghost Glyph Studios) enters a new era with a brand new story arc.
We’ve all waited long enough. Let’s break it all down.
The Last Witch: Blood & Betrayal #1 by Conor McCreery, V. V. Glass, Natalia Nesterenko & Taylor Esposito (BOOM! Studios)
*** POSSIBLE SPOILER WARNING ***
McCreery doesn’t delay in setting up the next challenge in waiting. Readers see how Saoirse is going to be deeply challenged. It is a strong move that has larger implications later. In the immediate present, the story showcases a happier point for Saoirse, Brahm & Hugh. Considering what they just went through, the moment is a welcomed change of pace.
The dialogue isn’t scared to address some of the darker moments of last arc. A prime example of this is Brahm missing his eye. Hugh’s off commentary draws the ire of Saoirse It leads into showing the family bond that has been a strength of this series. Even when new characters swing through, that sense never leaves. It actually becomes a catalyst for the close. McCreery mixes in new reveals along with a deep conversation with Nan to appease the curiosity. This boils into a strong ending. Seeing where the group now heads leaves the audience excited for more. What else could readers want?
Glass and Nesterenko delve into the darker side of magic with the opening pages. The art makes a bold decree as events start taking shape. It transitions into a more light-hearted moment. Hugh’s never-ending grin sets the standard for these panels. Even with his bad joke, the scenes never stay too stagnant or weighing the mood down.
This sense moves into the newest character introduction. The half page panel pops as Brahm makes the discovery. It is accompanied by a few action scenes. Readers watch as Saoirse’s growth with powers is crystal clear. Seeing this new character transform is broken down in a great panel sequence. Nan’s conversation with Saoirse is a show stealer. Mixing in flashbacks with the emotional toll, readers won’t help but be wrapped up. This momentum pushes towards the closing page. An ominous panel signifies the dangerous path that Saoirse & co. now walk. Here we go!
OVERALL GRADE: 9
The return to Saoirse’s journey is sure to cast a spell on comic readers. McCreery’s writing covers the varying levels of her complex world. Glass, Nesterenko & Esposito construct the excellent imagery fitting for the mystical landscape. Don’t wait for the trade. Jump on board now & get caught under its’ spell.
Let me know your thoughts on The Last Witch: Blood & Betrayal #1 in the comments below! Thanks for reading!