We travel back to 12th century England in William of Newbury, the latest comic book from Powers co-creator Michael Avon Oeming. This dark, yet captivating story was exactly what you’d expect from the Eisner Award-winning creator, who just so happens wrote, illustrated and letter the book all by himself.

In this series we follow the journey of William of Newbury, neurotic anamorphic monk raccoon who is afraid of the earthly world but unwavering when it comes to battling true evil. Set during “The Anarchy,” a tumultuous period in English history, William must navigate treacherous waters as he fights the undead and evil spirits to restore peace. However, his own brother stands in his way, fearing for his soul and determined to stop him at all costs.

What should not come as a surprise to most, Michael Avon Oeming’s storytelling and artwork are nothing short of amazing in this debut issue. Oeming’s signature art style is on full display, while his storytelling ability shines with a unique cast of characters. The world he has created is dark yet charming and he seamlessly makes it work.

In William of Newbury there is a great blend of darkness and whimsy that only a few comic creators out there can nail as well as Oeming. As we follow William on his adventures of thievery, betrayal and supernatural encounters we find ourselves drawn in deeper to the world that Oeming has crafted.

While this type of story is typically not something we gravitate towards when choosing a new comic to read, the name at the top of the book made us take the chance and we are glad for it. If you have never experienced a comic created by Michael Avon Oeming (you’re missing out) you should give William of Newbury a chance and experience the unique world he has created.

William of Newbury is a comic that sets itself apart from others on the shelves in recent months in both outstanding craftsmanship, but also unique story, characters and world building.

William of Newbury #1 hits local comic shops on May 29, 2024 from Dark Horse.