Primordia #1
Review by Chris Partin

Writer: John R. Fultz
Artist: Roel Wielinga
Colorist: Joel Chua

Its been a little while since I read a book from Archaia Studios.  I've sort of been stock piling a lot of their books, but this particular issue was one that had eluded me for a little while.  Primordia #1 came out back in September, but it wasn't until two weeks ago that I finally found this particular issue.  I know.  I know.  If I would have pre-ordered it I wouldn't have been so late to the game for this issue.  I know.  I've learned my lesson.

So, was this worth the wait?  I think so, but this issue definitely made me wanting a little more than I got out of it. 

First off, let's talk about what this issue is about.  This is a fantasy book, as if the cover art didn't give that away.  We're introduced to a tribe of "woodfolk".  One of their own rescues two human babies from death and convinced her king to allow her to raise the two boys.  As the human children grow each develops distinct attributes.  One would live their life during the day while the other would live at night while his brother would rest during the day.  Both were the yin to the other's yang.  Simply "day" and "night".  That aspect of the story really had me interested in the book. 

There was just something within the story that wasn't clicking with me.  I think it had a little to do with the dialogue more than anything.  I don't mean to say it was bad - its not!  There was just something off that kind of took me out of the story from time to time.  One instance was during the brother who embraced the darkness.  There was just something in his dialogue that seemed a little stiff.  Everything else seemed to work right for me, just his dialogue.

The overall story in this issue is pretty good.  I enjoy good fantasy books that aren't just straight up action adventure.  Sure, there's a healthy amount of that in this issue, but I like it.  Its not overwhelming.  I don't need to read "Lord of the Rings" every time someone puts out a fantasy series.  John R. Fultz has a good book on his hands.  I'm curious to see where he goes with this in the next two issues of this miniseries.

The one thing that grabbed me when I first saw this book in Previews was the amazing cover art.  Roel Wielinga is a really good artist.  I mean really good!  Wielinga has a very classic style.  I hate comparing artists to one another.  Having said that Wielinga's style closely ressembles Joe Kubert's.  Wielinga's style is unique, but if there's not some Joe Kubert influence there I'll be shocked!  Throw Joel Chua's colors on top of Wielinga's linework - brilliant!  This is a top notch art duo.

Primordia #1 is a really good start for this three issues miniseries.  John R. Fultz, Roel Wielinga, and Joel Chua have put a very strong first issue together.  I've got the next two issues on my pull list so I'm sure not to miss them.  If you can find this first issue, grab it and enjoy! 

Rating: 9 out of 10 (Excellent!)