I had the opportunity to get a look at Mad Cave Studios‘ THE OMEGA BOOK #1, which releases Wednesday, August 5th. Seeing its sci-fi component instantly attracted me to review the book. What I got was beyond my expectations. Here’s my spoiler-free review of THE OMEGA BOOK #1.
THE OMEGA BOOK #1
Written by James Patrick
Art by Pauli Junquera
Letters by Pat Brosseau
Covers & Cover Artists:
Pauli Junquera (Cover A)
Christian Ward (Cover B)
The Omega Book has the secrets of the universe in it. All of them. And the priest Brady Parsons has just inherited pages of it from his father. But now, everyone wants what’s that knowledge, they’ll do anything to get it, and if the book falls into the wrong hands it will end the world. No, the universe. To stop that from happening, Brady enters a world of science and mystery he never imagined, he’ll see and do things that nobody has ever seen or done, and he’ll uncover the truth about the amazing things the Omega Book can do, its origins, and even about the father he’s hated his whole life.
Comics Bodega’s Comic Book Review:
THE OMEGA BOOK #1
You had me at “secrets of the universe.” A fascinating synopsis coupled with beautifully illustrated interiors immediately drew my attention to THE OMEGA BOOK #1 and give it a review.
There were a lot of notable moments and scenes that made this such an enjoyable read. The x-ray glasses and what they can show you is something in which I can only dream. The lover of science and the universe in me had my geek factor overloaded and has likely spread across multiple dimensions. I think Jason Bennetts in other dimensions would agree they feel it as well.
THE OMEGA BOOK puts the science in science-fiction. James Patrick’s composition in this first issue is beyond impressive. Incorporating physics and astrobiology not only make this book a science lover’s dream, it injects a hefty dose of fascination into the wonders and mysteries of the universe.
The writer has conceptualized a smart look at science vs. faith. His main character, Father Brady Parsons, struggles with an inheritance from his recently-passed estranged father. As his father put science at the forefront of his life, Father Parsons has made a life putting all of himself into this faith. The inheritance left behind included a pair of x-ray glasses that his father noted would show him the secrets of the universe. But the interesting twist is Father Brady Parsons seeing to validate and confirm his belief in an omnipotent creator. And he’s going to be hunted for what he has and knows. The intensity of Patrick’s storytelling is stimulating and attention-grabbing. This debut issue will pull you in and make you a fan within the first four intro pages.
Just as I pointed out the impressive intro by writer James Patrick, the first four pages of THE OMEGA BOOK #1 grabs you visually and hits hard. The illustrations are stunningly detailed. The monochromatic sepia tones Junquera employs have a lot of impact.
As if that weren’t enough, Pauli’s futuristic artwork is mind-boggling. Whether viewing the twitchy past, seeing anywhere around the world, or trippin’ the light fantastic across the cosmos, the juxtaposition from Junquera’s grounded illustrations to the breathtaking imagery of science and space combine for a harmonious display of the artist’s skill and ability.
Seeing Pat Brosseau’s name attached to this project instills confidence in me that the lettering will be smart and professional. For me, at least. Pat has well-laid out captions throughout. His word balloons neither obstruct nor detract any of Pauli’s illustrations; the accomplished letterer intelligently makes beautiful use of empty space in panels. Brosseau is, and has always been, and asset to any book to which he’s credited. Chalk up THE OMEGA BOOK #1 as another.
The science vs. faith debate has always appealed to me. Science was my favorite subject in school and I still, to this day, read about the latest in advancements of science – most notably astrobiology, physics, medicine, and archaeology (in about that order, too). I also happened to enroll in seminary for a Bachelor’s in Religion. I ultimately turned from further exploring a life of faith when I was told I needed to believe in some things that I knew in my heart were scientifically inaccurate. I couldn’t accept something I knew categorically to be false. Enough about me. Einstein once stated that “science without religion is lame, religion without science is blind.” It’s that examination of truth coming through the pages of this premiere issue that attracts me the most.
This series not only deserves to be on every sci-fi thriller fan’s pull list, it has tremendous potential to be adapted into film. For a mind-blowing, visual masterpiece, look no further than THE OMEGA BOOK #1. Ths is top-tier, sci-fi brilliance. Mad Cave has a remarkable eye for extraordinary talent and projects. THE OMEGA BOOK #1 is proof of that.
Be sure to pick up your copy this Wednesday, August 5th at your local comic shop, favorite online retailer, or direct from Mad Cave themselves!
About Mad Cave Studios:
Driven by madness and committed to quality. Mad Cave Studios provides quality entertainment with a fresh take on an array of genres. From fantasy and action to sci-fi and horror, Mad Cave publishes stories that resonate with unapologetic and authentic audiences.