Dead Seas, by writer Cavan Scott and artist Nick Brokenshire, is a unique ghost story that goes beyond the usual haunted house trope.
What makes Dead Seas unique is the way it explores the possibility of harvesting ectoplasm from ghosts. The main character, Gus Ortiz, is willing to take the risk of working on the Perdition, a floating prison containing some of the most vicious ghosts on earth. He does this in exchange for a reduced sentence and the chance to be with his daughter again. The story is not just about ghosts and their mysterious powers, but also the lengths people will go to in order to see their loved ones again and beyond.
The artwork by Nick Brokenshire is truly exceptional, with excellent ghost designs and attention to detail. The lettering by Shawn Lee adds to the atmosphere of the comic, with striking sound effects and impactful dialogue. The artwork and lettering complement the writing, making it an enjoyable and immersive reading experience.
Beyond the unique concept around ghosts and ectoplasm, Dead Seas also has an element of mystery and danger. Gus soon discovers that something more sinister is going on aboard the Perdition, and he must navigate treacherous waters (both literally and figuratively) to uncover the truth. It almost feels like Ghostbusters meets Alien, with the added element of a high-stakes prison break.
As the story progresses, everything seems to go wrong. Gus and his fellow prisoners are constantly facing danger and unforeseen obstacles, coming up with creative solutions to stay alive and achieve their goals. There are twists and turns aplenty, with the plot constantly pushing forward and keeping you on the edge of your seat.
Dead Seas‘ creative concept of harvesting ectoplasm from ghosts and the overall mystery and danger make for a thrilling and engaging read. The artwork by Nick Brokenshire and lettering by Shawn Lee add to the overall experience, making it a true gem in the world of comic books.
The Dead Seas collected trade paperback hits bookstores everywhere on October 24, 2023 and local comic shops on October 25 from IDW Publishing.