Advanced Review: Harbinger #1

I have to admit, I never read the original Harbinger series! My favorite Valiant book had always been Shadowman, ask me anything about Jack Dominique Boniface — and you will have my undivided attention. Harbinger however, never had enough characterization for me. It didn’t have enough “meat on its bones” to pique my interest. 

Well, just like the nineties — those days are over! This new Harbinger series is what great comics are made of!

From page one, you cannot help but be captivated by the richness of the world both Joshua Dysart (B.P.R.D., Unknown Soldier) and Khari Evans (Carbon Grey) have created. It is fantastic in nature, yet so realistic that these characters could be living in your own neighborhood. But it is the juxtaposition of characters, Toyo Harada and Peter Stancheck, that is the most captivating factor! Both harbor amazing gifts, but it is their use of them – or lack there of – that set them apart. While Harada is trying to save the world the best he can, Stancheck is just trying to escape the voices in his head! 

Joshua Dysart has created an amazing character that is so hard to like, I actually couldn’t put this book down! The character of Peter Stancheck is a disheartened, pathetic junkie that uses his telepathy to rob pharmacies in order to stop hearing the thoughts of all the people around him. Teamed with his Zyprexa popping best friend, Joe Irons, they travel the East Coast — staying one step ahead of the mysterious Mr. Tull. You want to pass on Peter as not just a hero but as a human being. But there is something about him, a lost innocence, a quest for normalcy, a broken soul — that makes you want to continually read on and engulf all there is to know. It is a thrill ride of discovery, even if you think he’s despicable!

Harbinger is a stunning character piece, infused with mystery, intrigue and top notch art! Comic fans should stand up and take notice — Valiant is churning out some amazing books! First there was X-O Manowar, now Harbinger! They have created a solid foundation for their resurgence — let’s see how high they can build this new vision!