Written by Andrew Cosby and Michael Alan Nelson

Drawn by Ayhan Hayrula

Publisher: BOOM!
Diamond Code (Cover A, B): JUN090767
24pgs, FC, SRP: $3.99

I just received an advanced copy of the new BOOM! book Swordsmith Assassin #1. Typically a new title will sit on my desk for at least a week before I get around to reading it, but the first couple pages of Swordsmith grabbed my attention, so I read it.

The Plot
Toshiro Ono has spent his life making the best swords that have ever been forged and selling them to the highest bidder. But when his family is killed by a blade of his own making… Toshiro will do whatever it takes to make sure none of his swords ever kill again. Andrew Cosby, creator of EUREKA, and Michael Alan Nelson, creator of HEXED, brings feudal Samurai Japan to life like no other comic has done before

The Art
Ayhan Hayrula artwork is really good. I haven’t done much research so I can’t say what he’s filled his portfolio with, but if it is anywhere near as good as Assassin, than he is worth keeping an eye on.

The Writing

I was very impressed with Andrew Cosby and Michael Alan Nelson’s scripting and storyline. This was an easy story to follow. The dialog was believable and the characters were easy to relate to. This story could have been really lame but instead it was compelling and original.

The Verdict
Two thumbs way up. I could use a little more action, but all and all the story was really good. I have a feeling Toshiro’s life is going to get brutal, those swords aren’t just going to be handed to him freely. If the next issue isn’t filled with blood I’ll be surprised.