The Ribbon Queen, written by Garth Ennis (The Boys, Preacher) and illustrated by Jacen Burrows (Moon Knight, Neonomicon) takes you on a thrilling ride through ancient powers, corrupt police departments and the shocking realization that some things may never be stopped.
Detective stories are a staple in comic books, but what sets The Ribbon Queen apart is its supernatural twist. The story follows NYPD Detective Amy Sun as she investigates a corrupt cabal within her own precinct. But as she delves deeper, she discovers that an ancient force of vengeance has awoken and is targeting those responsible for a young woman’s death three years prior. Ennis has masterfully blended the elements of a classic detective story with supernatural horror, creating a story that is both suspenseful and eerie.
The clean and beautiful artwork by Jacen Burrows stands out in The Ribbon Queen. The detail in each panel and character design is stunning and doesn’t take away from the unique story being told. And the use of color tones by Dan Brown throughout the comic book effectively sets the mood for each scene. This level of craftsmanship adds another layer to an already intense storyline.
Ennis has a way of keeping readers invested in the characters he creates. With The Ribbon Queen, he introduces a diverse group of characters, some corrupt and some genuinely good, making it easy to get lost in the twists and turns of the story. His use of suspense and tension keeps you on the edge of your seat, waiting to see what will unfold next in Detective Sun’s investigation.
This isn’t just any story of a supernatural force. Ennis has created something much larger than that. The Ribbon Queen dives deep into the idea of vengeance and how it can affect those who seek it. It forces readers to question what justice really means and whether some things are worth stopping at all.
Ennis and Burrows have created a haunting world filled with corrupt cops and supernatural forces that keep readers invested from beginning to end. The strong writing and beautiful artwork complement each other beautifully, delivering a story that will creep into your mind long after you’ve put it down.
The collected edition of The Ribbon Queen hits local comic shops on May 22, 2024 and at bookstores everywhere June 11 from AWA Studios.