Penny Dreadful (Vol. 2) #1

   When I was growing up, when your favorite TV show was canceled, that was the end of that story - with the exception of Star Trek, which is (thankfully) unkillable.

   But the death of a show doesn't mean the end of your favorite stories these days - and here's a good example.

   The gothic horror TV series Penny Dreadful may be over, but the story continues in this comic book series from Titan Comics.

    The series ended with a shocking death, but as this issue shows, death doesn't always mean a character is gone forever.

   And the threat of evil hangs over the cast, including a man carrying a terrible curse, and a discovery in Egypt that may open the door to a demonic threat that could destroy civilization.

   That's another great thing about comics - there are no special effect budget limitations.

   It's a powerful story the builds nicely on what came before - and sets up a thrilling new adventure / horror story!

Grade: A-

-------------------

Penny Dreadful #1

   I must admit that I haven't seen the Showtime TV series yet, but the comic book version of Penny Dreadful is a treat for horror fans.

   It incorporates characters and elements from one of the greatest horror stories ever - Bram Stoker's Dracula.

   Loaded with powerful, dark imagery by artist Louis De Martinis, the Victorian era story follows a woman named Vanessa who seeks to save a friend of hers - Mina - who has fallen under the influence of a mysterious figure known only as The Master.

   Vanessa joins forces with Mina's father in a rescue attempt that pits them against monsters - natural and otherwise - and brings some well-known names into the story.

   It's not a story for kids - lots of blood, demons and dismemberment here - but for adult fans of horror, it's a strong start for the series.

   (Now I need to track down the TV version.)

Grade: A-

--------------------