The Neighbors, written by Jude Ellison S. Doyle and illustrated by Letizia Cadonici has us gripping the pages and looking over our shoulder. This family story explores deeper themes of family dynamics, parenting, and the supernatural.

The Neighbors follows the Gowdie family who move to a mountain town in search of a new beginning. However, their peaceful existence is quickly shattered as they discover a sinister presence lurking beneath the surface. Casey, the teenage daughter, displays strange and unpredictable behavior, while Janet, the mother, becomes increasingly distant. The only one seemingly unaffected is Isobel, the young daughter. As the story unfolds, we are introduced to an array of secondary characters, each with their own secrets and agendas.

One of the standout features of The Neighbors is the art. Letizia Cadonici’s illustration perfectly complements the eerie tone of the story. The brilliant use of shadow creates a sense of foreboding that permeates every page. Coupled with the excellent character designs, The Neighbors is visually stunning and brings to life the creepiness of the story.

Doyle’s writing explores deeper themes of family dynamics, identity, and folklore. While the characters may be in a supernatural setting, their struggles and relationships are relatable, reflecting real-life situations. As the story progresses, we uncover a sinister plot rooted in Irish and English folklore. The climax of the comic is both terrifying and thrilling, with a genuinely unexpected twist. And, the story’s finale underscores implications of the threat that stretches beyond just the Gowdie family.

The Neighbors is a horror gem of a story that fans of the genre will love. It explores family dynamics, horror, and the supernatural, providing a thrilling and chilling read. The art and the writing are an exquisite tandem that takes the reader on an eerie and suspenseful journey. Overall, The Neighbors is a thought-provoking and impactful story that will linger in the mind long after reading it.

The collected edition of The Neighbors, collecting issue #1-5, hits local comic shops on December 27, 2023 and bookstores everywhere on January 4, 2024 from BOOM! Studios.