Cullen Bunn, Tyler Crook ‘Harrow County #4’ Review

Written by: Matt Molgaard

The final pages of issue three of Harrow County gave a glimpse of Emmy running into a sizable monster with a menacing look about him. He’s the same monster that once spent “quality time” with the witch that was murdered by the townsfolk 18 years ago. And he knows who Emmy is… and he isn’t too happy with her. Now that he’s once more face to face with Hester Beck (in Emmy’s body, obviously) there’s a moment of aggression between the two before Emmy is able to escape his wrath.

She breaks into a clearing, stumbling upon a road where she’s almost hit by the town’s pharmacist, who’s out driving his truck in the middle of the night. He’s a gentle soul and he offers to take her into town. But, as is expected, he isn’t what he seems. He renders her unconscious (with what appears to be Chloroform) and the next thing she knows she’s waking up in the man’s home. But there is no lynch party awaiting. Rather, as it turns out, this man is one of Hester’s loyal followers He aims to protect her from those who wish her harm. But the Haint that’s been keeping a watchful eye on the young girl isn’t taking any chances, and he pounces on the man, which enables her to break free.

We soon see that Emmy is able to move on, and away from the terrors of Harrow County. In fact, it looks as if her mission is only just beginning. The final pages offer an interesting reveal: Emmy has taken her place as a powerhouse in this world, which is hers, ripe for the picking. But where will we go from here? Will she turn to the dark side, just as Hester did, or will her good will take her down an entirely different path? We’re going to have to wait to get a glimpse of the future.

Once again Cullen Bunn delivers the goods. Cullen’s storytelling is captivating beyond believe. Tyler Crook’s artwork still functions as the fuel that aids Bunn’s vehicle to plow through our minds and hearts. There may be no better duo offering up entertainment in the comic book field today, and that’s a tremendous compliment given the wealth of talent cluttering the business.

If you’re still looking for that perfect graphic novel, the one that steals your attention and burrows in your inner core, you can call off the search. Harrow County (the best book I’ve read since Black Hole) is a gorgeous piece of artwork that is destined to live on long after Cullen Bunn and Tyler Crook have put the pens down. Book four is another stellar display, and you’d be wise to seek it out come August 12^th.

Pre-order it here.

Rating: 5/5