Sweet Heart #1 Review

Sweet Heart #1 was written by Dillon Gilbertson. The artwork is done by Francesco Iaquinta and Marco Pagnotta. The lettering is by Saida Temofonte. Sweet Heart is edited by Nicole D'Andria and published by Action Lab Comics.

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Sweet Heart 1 Review

About Sweet Heart #1

Sweet Heart #1 was written by Dillon Gilbertson. The artwork is done by Francesco Iaquinta and Marco Pagnotta. The lettering is by Saida Temofonte. Sweet Heart is edited by Nicole D’Andria and published by Action Lab Comics.

The world of Sweet Heart is one filled with horrific monsters. These creatures feast on the sugar-filled blood of humans. Once a monster locks on to you, they will not stop until they get what they want. The only protection is a tonic that has temporary repellent-like effects. Where do these monsters come from, and how can humans remain safe from their grasp?  

Sweet Heart 1 Cover

Sweet Heart #1 Review

Ellicott City is filled with horrific creatures. These monsters pick a human to hunt, and do not stop until they get their prey. While they can easily murder humans, there is a medication that works as a repellant. However, this workaround is faulty. Can the citizens of Ellicott City keep themselves safe?

I can’t really explain what I find to be so chilling about this story. I think it may be the combination of the personal attack with the emotionless monster. It is as if every character has their own personal Michael Myers. The monster wants you and you alone, and they will not stop until they get what they want.

I really love the medical aspect of this story. Characters can take medication that will temporarily push the monster away. When dealing with horror, we usually see mechanical or paranormal solutions to problems. Except for say, a zombie virus/cure, there are not many examples of medicine-based solutions to monsters.

RELATED: Dillon Gilbertson Talks Comics Writing

I also like how personal this story is. If you have read my interview with writer Dillon Gilbertson, you would know that the monsters are supposed to represent illnesses and ailments. Aside from that, Sweet Heart is a story about a family. It shows how strength and virtue can be passed down from generation to generation. Sweet Hearts demonstrates the importance of being there for your loved ones.

The artwork in Sweet Heart is great. Iaquinta and Pagnotta really knocked it out of the park on this one. I love the painting/watercolor style of the story. It reminds me of other contemporary artists such as Jeff Lemire and Michael Gaydos. I feel that this art style allows the reader to use their imagination. My favorite art styles are ones that allow full immersion into the story.

As stated previously, it is very rare that a horror comic spooks me this badly. This means I do not really have a choice. I must continue to read Sweet Heart. It is a reminder of how scary ink on a page can truly be. At the same time, it is also a heartwarming story about a family going through struggles. I would recommend this book to fans of both horror and family drama. I can’t wait to see what comes next.

RELATED: Sweet Heart Issue 2 Review

Sweet Heart 1 Preview

Where To Find Sweet Heart

Sweet Heart #1 on Comixology

Where To Find The Creators

Dillon Gilbertson: Website | Twitter | Instagram

Francesco Iaquinta: Twitter | Instagram

Nicole D’Andria: Twitter | Website | Instagram

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