A review by jbeoin
In the Jaws of St. Camillus by Stevie Barot

dark mysterious fast-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Strong character development? No
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.0

I really liked this comic! I 100% expected it to go one way, and it went on a different path that I very much enjoyed. I really liked the symbolism of the crocodiles and snakes used throughout and how they added tension to the story visually.

I liked the characters and how they interacted with each other throughout-- I think this is actually something I'd love to see explored even more, tbh! I loved the way Stevie Barot set up the antagonism of the first priest against the residents and then brought in the new one in the way he did to set up our expectations-- can you tell I'm trying not to give anything away? lol

I liked how the story played off of common tropes and ideas and brought them together in a satisfying way at the end, and I think Barot did a great job of keeping us guessing as to what was coming next throughout the comic. I think the story could use a little polishing to make it really shine, but I enjoyed it as it is, too.

The art was great, too; I always enjoy black and white art when done well like this-- easy to read and understand what's going on visually while still pleasing to look at. I liked the visual differences between the two main characters, and I especially loved the use of splash pages here and there to really emphasize the character's feelings in the moment. Another good one I recommend checking out!

This was a comic from last year's ShortBox Comics Fair** in October that I've been saving for a treat, and it was just right for a cozy, snowy morning read before starting work.

**If you're wondering, ShortBox Comics Fair WILL be back in the fall this year-- ShortBox the publisher is retiring, but ShortBox Comics Fair (a separate entity run by the same owner of ShortBox the publisher) will continue for the time being. So start saving your money for October's 2024 fair now!!