The Dark North by Martin Dunelind, art by Peter Bergting, Henrik Pettersson, Joakim Ericsson, Magnus Olsson, and Lukas Thelin; forward by Clive Barker

Dark Horse, 2017

ISBN:  9781506704678

Available: print, Kindle or comiXology ebook

The Dark North is a prose art book that contains five unique stories written by Martin Dunelind,with illustrations showcasing the work of five Scandinavian illustrators and artists. Each of the stories has a different feel and is set in a different time period. Three of the five stories really stood out from the rest: “E18 West,” “Archon,” and “The Daughters of the End.”

“E18 West” is told in 19 short parts, with the narrator telling of her past, present, and future. A road trip in her trusty Oldsmobile leads her to a wraith who has a vendetta against her family. Bergting’s artwork for this piece is perfect for the tone of the story. A few of the panels are represented as photographs in a scrapbook and sketches. The wraith appears in several stages of the road trip before it is even mentioned. The artist also makes use of light and shadow in truly beautiful ways. One of the most effective pieces is an image of the narrator, armed with her shotgun, standing under a streetlight. She is illuminated in the shadows, with a look of defiance on her face. It’s truly beautiful.

“Archon” is set in the distant future. Saul is searching for his wife and child on a planet full of the Clergy’s brainwashing, corruption, and contempt. When he learns the Clergy has used their “indoctrination protocols” on his daughter, his search becomes more pressing, and the hunt for the Architect begins. The artwork for this story is incredibly detailed and fits the story amazingly well. The vast landscapes, futuristic tech, and muted colors all add to the atmosphere of Dunelind’s story. Joakim Ericcson’s art would fit well into the Warhammer 40K universe.

“Daughters of the End” presents a pantheon of sorts. Henrik Pettersson’s beautiful artwork accompanies the short text provided by Martin Dunelind. While the verses are short, they are as powerful as the artwork. The depictions and representations of Wrath and Hunger are particularly impressive.

“The Rest-Red Rooster”  is the story of a man visiting a childhood haunt with his sister; he discovers why their mother never went back after an accident, what hides within himself, and his destiny.  Both this story and the last, “The Way of All Things,” a dark tale of the tragedies of man, are fantastic, with equally great artwork. However, the first three stories are where the bulk of the greatness of this tome lies.

I do hope Dunelind continues to produce this kind of anthology. It’s beautiful and terrifying, with gripping stories worthy of a gallery showroom. Recommended.

Contains: brief nudity

Reviewed by Lizzy Walker