Somna #3: Darkness in Every Dimension
Reviewed by Seth Adrian Romo
Somna #3 closes out this haunted tale with an ending that is sure to surprise. Over the course of three issues, this series has been a bold entry and has set a high standard for what’s to come from DSTLRY publishing. It’s thrilling, beautifully drawn, and mind-bending.
This story is a period piece following Ingrid, wife to the local bailiff, Roland. Set in the 1600s during the infamous witch hunts, this tale has challenged what expectations were for people at that time and gives readers a tragic protagonist to follow. While the story leans on the spicier content and Ingrid’s personal journey, there is still a nefarious narrative about the unknown and how it manipulates those whose curiosity gets the best of them.
While the first two issues established Ingrid’s intense experiences with the elemental figure and the mystery of a local murder, issue #3 brings revelations and answers with some uncertainty. Ingrid is a likable enough character, however, while she has gained more confidence, it quickly becomes clear how this isn’t exactly a fairytale.
Writers/artists Becky Cloonan and Tula Lotay have put together an incredible story that—like the elemental figure—is incredibly captivating. In addition to the writing, both Cloonan and Lotay have split the issue’s art sharing both of their respective styles. This leads to a solid visual experience as Cloonan’s sharper lines are contrasted by Lotay’s more dreamy style. It’s a perfect blend with both styles flowing incredibly well. Additionally, when seen in its magazine style format, the art takes center stage rightfully demanding the reader’s attention.
While the story was enjoyable enough, there were some areas that could have been improved. The ambiguous ending isn’t quite what one might expect, although there are no indications of this series continuing past three issues. Granted, the ending isn’t a dealbreaker, but some may have hoped for more.
Final Verdict
Cloonan and Lotay are clearly a powerhouse team and compliment each other well. The two creators have put together a comic book full of drama and layers for a story that challenges what is typically on comic stands.
| Criteria | Score |
|---|---|
| Writing | 9.0 |
| Story/Plot | 8.0 |
| Art/Line Work | 9.5 |
| Colors | 9.5 |
| Final Score | 9.0/10 |
Creative Team
writers/artists: BECKY CLOONAN AND TULA LOTAY
colorists: LEE LOUGHRIDGE, DEE CUNNIFFE, TULA LOTAY
letterer: LUCAS GATTONI
publisher: DSTLRY