Exquisite Corpses – Fox Mask Killer #2: Beneath the Masks

Naomi receives his first assignment from Charlotte Blackburn, the assassination of a well to do Floridian heir. However, something is off, and once Naomi reaches the Blackburn estate, she starts to learn that she might not be the only one wearing a mask.

After essentially being blackmailed in the opening issue, Naomi learns more about who she has been forced to work for when it comes to the Blackburns. In the original Exquisite Corpses we were introduced to the sisters, and that characterization remains the same here. There is the more meek Cassandra, and her more boastful and manipulative sister Charlotte (AKA Lady Carolina). Together these three create an interesting parallel as they are all hiding with Naomi trying to stay in the shadows to lead a normal life for her daughter, and the Blackburn’s hiding just how much their family has fallen over the years. Beyond that there is also the impending danger of Naomi’s old organization.

Che Grayson doesn’t create the most action-packed script, aside from Naomi’s mission, but there is still plenty to chew on in terms of narrative and character. As I said before there is a theme of hiding and masks throughout this issue between Naomi and the Blackburns (notably Charlotte).

Adam Gorham’s art is very grounded. There isn’t much in the way of expression, but it still more than gets the job done. Jordie Bellaire’s washed out and dull color palette also helps set the story in its more realistic setting despite the fantastical nature.