Tarot: Witch of The Black Rose
Issue #46 Cover A
Creator: Jim Balent
Writer: Jim Balent
Artist: Jim Balent
Colorist: Holly Golightly
Letterist: Holly Golightly
Assistant Colorist: Stephanie Chan
Editor: Neil Morris
BroadSword Comics
Issue #46 of Tarot: Witch of The Black Rose finds Tarot struggling to survive after being left to die at the bottom of a lake bounded by chains. This issue focuses on Tarot’s strong will to escape the fate that has been laid out for her as she lays at the bottom of the lake haunted by what will happen to her Witch Sisters if she can not find a way out of her watery tomb to rescue them. Part three of a four part story arc entitled “The Witch Key” issue #46 is a must read.
I love issues of Tarot where most of the dialog is in the form of inner thoughts of the main character of the issue, Jim Balent showcases a very poetic writing style that really sucks you into the story and world of Tarot. This writing style really separates Tarot from other comic series that are geared towards adults. Another aspect of the writing I really enjoy is the level of empowerment it gives to the female characters of the series that are proud of their bodies and who they are unashamed of anything. Do not get confused by the ample amount of naked busty women this series is not degrading to females in any form or fashion, as they are the pillars of strength throughout the series. This issue tackles many issues faced by females on a daily basis such as being comfortable with their sexuality and their inner and outer beauty and finding the strength to not be afraid to show this comfort publicly without worry about the views of others who do not share the same degree of personal freedom.
The artwork as always is breath taking; Jim Balent’s ability to present the female form in such a beautiful manner is unsurpassed when it comes to comic book artists. The color and shading work done by Holly Golightly further ads to the eye candy created with in the pages of every issue of Tarot: Witch of The Black Rose and creates a very high standard for both adult comics and all ages comics. Repeatedly I find myself scanning through the pages of these comics multiply times after reading them appreciating the level of dedication and raw talent behind each issue.
Once again, I had a blast spending sometime in the world of Tarot: Witch of The Black Rose and find myself unable to stop reading issue after issue this is going to be a review marathon that I enjoy every second of.
