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Writer: David Lapham
Pencils: Edgar Salazar
Inks: Keith Champagne
Color Artist: Dan Jackson
Publisher: Dark Horse Comics
Price: $3.99

With “The Strain” comic having finished up, we take a look into the past of the enigmatic, Mister Quinlan.

Since the beginning of “The Strain,” Mister Quinlan has been a rather mysterious character, assisting Ephram Goodweather and his allies with their fight against the Master. One issue from the comic gave us a brief glimpse into his past, and how he is involved with the Master. David Lapham takes us back to that time, when Caligula still reigned with the Master at his side. Through the use of narration, Lapham crafts a great story around Quinlan: how his mother escaped the master; what makes him different from the rest of the Master’s brood; and why he wants to seek revenge. Even his rise through the ranks to become a gladiator. The writing keeps you invested as the story goes on and I liked that. This issue only has a few pages where characters actually speak, but it doesn’t detract from the quality of it. The pacing was good and gives you enough of Quinlan’s early life.

The team of Edgar Salazar and Keith Champagne, makes the story come to life. The art is amazing and the characters look excellent. Especially the vampires, which still have that distinct emaciated look them. The panels flow like blood, moving from scene to scene. The duo captures the script and action perfectly. Even the emotional scenes of the story are handled well. Dan Jackson’s colors always look superb and brings that much-needed energy to the art.

If you’re a fan of “The Strain” or Mister Quinlan, check this title out. It’s a great introduction to the characters early beginnings. Couple that with the stunning art and colors, you can definitely sink your teeth into it. Also, don’t forget to catch “The Strain” on FX.

5 Masters out of 5