House of Slaughter #12: When the Past Reveals Itself

House of Slaughter #12 is a solid entry in the latest story arc, as it manages to expand the universe without losing intrigue.

This issue follows Jace as he, and the kids he has saved, venture into the woods to find a boy named Sunny. Meanwhile, a mysterious woman from Jace’s past, Jolie, has taken Sunny under her guidance. It’s a tense issue as readers are not given much insight into which path is good for the boy.

The House of Slaughter has done an excellent job at expanding the mythology of the Something is Killing the Children series. The first arc of House of Slaughter gave insight into Jace’s path to revenge, and this latest arc has shown consequences are still lingering.

To me, the plot of this issue was succinct. While it felt like it was developing into its own story, I appreciate any opportunity to get to know Jace Boucher better. Throughout his story Jace has kept his steady confidence; however, readers now see a man doing his best with the resources and limitations he faces.

Jolie is an interesting new character, and the masks her clan wears seem like an indicator she is also no longer part of the Order of St. George. Additionally, this issue talks about the newest type of monster, the anima type. These new monsters can take the form of an animal, such as a crocodile or dragon, and their presence I  felt at the slightest of fear in a child.

There is a lot of ground work and lore added; however, none feels forced or done without a purpose. This is largely due to writer Tate Brombals style in laying a foundation of what is to come. Brombal’s style has done a great job matching the series’ tone, and I appreciate how Jace is still interesting. In the first story arc with Jace, there was a substantial pay off at the end of issue #5, and I trust Brombal’s ability to deliver a solid addition to Jace’s story.

Handling the art is Antonio Fuso with colors by Miquel Muerto, and their style has remained consistent, unique, and connected to the larger universe. I particularly enjoy how each panel has a cinematic design, and there is an emphasis on background detail. The use of black to add a dark depth is well used and makes moments with monsters terrifying.