RAGE in the Shadows #1: Tough Lesson

Lurking in the shadows, Agent Angelica Garcia studies the situation and surroundings before addressing her daughter’s kidnappers. The mercenaries are being ordered by an unknown puppet master to do everything necessary and ensure nothing happens to the shipment or their bargaining chip. The reader can clearly see that these hired men have the necessary skills to carry out their mission. Except, they are unprepared to deal with their hostage’s mother!

Meanwhile, Agent Angelica Garcia’s husband, Dr. Jaime Garcia, is being held hostage in a lab, which seems to be his place of employment. A woman named, Viviana, forcefully applies the pressure to successfully complete the project at hand. As the creator, Dr. Garcia’s intension was to create a serum to help people and cure any disease. There has been a horrible consequence that could jeopardize the project and that is not an option. Dr. Garcia must perfect the serum or face the threat of losing his wife and daughter. This is just another “Tough Lesson”.

Ralph Henriquez seems to be off to a good start with a unique leading female in this drama genre comic book. It’s clear that seeing depictions of powerful women can help boost girls’ confidence to become a strong adult. It is also clear that we need more positive role models for girls. The solution is obvious: Put more women – of all cultures and backgrounds – in leading roles. No time is better than now. Henriquez seems to understand this and created a role model and much more for his readers.

Emilio Utrera & Milagros Henriquez artwork flows nicely and adds to the storytelling. The details in face speak when there are no words. The colors place emphasis on the given panel of different shades of grays to the blood red color during the fight scenes. This is very important in any drama genre comic book.

Henriquez and his creative team have provided a story that impacts the imagined set of ideas in science and technology. I hope that Dr. Garcia’s character will continue to develop in future issues. Biochemistry and mathematical equations may add a spark to the reader’s scientific curiosity. Exploring the consequences of such science and technology failures provides purpose of science fiction, making it a “literature of ideas” or in this comic book – “Tough Lesson”.

HenryQ Comics made a good decision in taking a chance on Rage in the Shadows. The beginning feels a little weak, but it is only the first issue The cliffhanger at the end is dramatic and suspenseful, like a season finally that make the young reader say; “Oh, come on”!