True crime stories are all the rage over the past few years, but those stories that stand out from the crowd are the ones where to add a bit of a different twist. Killer Influences by Eisner Nominated writer Joey Esposito and artist Valeria Burzo takes a different approach to a true crime thriller where influencer and killer work together to further their names.
Killer Influences follows Melvin, a serial killer who is aspiring to be one of the most infamous to ever do it, a true American nightmare. His problem? He’s so efficient and methodical that he doesn’t have a brand. No one has connected his crimes except for Kylie, an aspiring true crime influencer who is flailing at a small-town newspaper.
When she comes across Melvin’s crimes and reaches out to him… she figures out how she’s going to become a star. She will give Melvin the identity he needs to be the iconic serial killer he wants to be, while she follows his exploits on her channel and becomes famous.Kylie and Melvin make a pact that will make their dreams come true and destroy their lives in the process.
With a ton of different true crime stories on television as well as the many books, it can be tough to craft a story that fits into the genre while also feeling unique and original. Esposito finds a spot for his comic series to live in with Killer Influence.
One of my favorite true crime stories to deep dive into is the lore of the Zodiac Killer. Someone who has taken the lives of many victims, but to this day the killer has yet to be identified. A big aspect of my passion for this piece of history is the interaction with the media and how even that connection they were unable to be caught. Killer Influences takes this premise and takes it a step further by having the killer and the media actually interact and devise a plan to further both of their causes. This takes the story in a direction that pulls you in and will take us on a ride.
While this is about Melvin and Kylie and their newfound companionship, it still has the eerie and tension-filled vibe of a thrilling crime story. There are moments that will put you on edge, while also furthering the plot of these two coming together to form this pact. Killer Influences will scratch the itch of those looking for true crime, as well as those looking for a bit of a crime thriller. Not to mention this story falls a slight bit into horror at the same time.
Valeria Burzo brings some intense artwork to the table with this premiere issue, while also capturing the intimate moments where Melvin and Kylie devise their plan. Burzo’s style of illustration works so well with this type of story, which is only amplified by the colors of Iñaki Azpiazu. This artistic team helps build the tension filled scene laid out by Esposito, making for a fantastic premiere issue.
Killer Influences #1 stands out by blending society’s true crime obsession with influencer culture in a way that feels both unsettling and original. Joey Esposito crafts a chilling tale, while Valeria Burzo and Iñaki Azpiazu really bring the story together with excellent illustrations and color. Killer Influences is a gripping true crime story turning fame and fear into a dangerously addictive pact.
Killer Influences #1 hits local comic shops on July 1, 2026 (FOC: May 25) from the IDW Crime imprint at IDW Publishing.
Killer Influences #1 Covers
