Comic Review: John Carter, Warlord of Mars #8

More comic review action as John Carter and Dejah Thoris face a "Man-Made Monster!"

Still on their quest to save Barsoom, John and Dejah discover massive carnage on a farm near the fabled ancient palace of Ishak. When they meet some of the locals they discover they are being menaced by a predator that is slaying their livestock and causing massive disappearances of the local populace. Dejah vows to fly back to Helium and summon aid the next morning but before that happens her and Carter meet the force behind the attacks, a creature whose motive remains mysterious and frightening.

With this story Ron Marz brings on co-writer Ian Edgington and the two create a cracking opening, from the suspenseful opening of a family being stalked and terrorized by an unseen force to the confrontation between Carter and the "predator" it's a fast paced tale that manages to combine the best of comic book adventure with the pulp sense of ERB himself. I don't want to spoil too much so let's just say I'm eager to see the next chapter.

Handling art duties this time out is Ariel Medel, who does a good job capturing the creatures of Barsoom-from thoats to the new threat-with skill. Medel also delivers some rousing action in the fight near the end, along with nice handling of the characters. Some will be disappointed by the change of artists but if anything I always welcome a new artist if they deliver and Medel does so just give the art a chance.

With a new story arc and threat, we once again are in capable hands so fans of the Warlord of Mars just have fun and enjoy the ride. Until next time faithful readers.