RICH REVIEWS: Hello Darkness # 20

Title: Hello Darkness # 20
Publisher: BOOM! Studios
Away Message:
Written & Illustrated By: Jorge Corona
Colors by: Galaad
Letters by: Simon Bowland
The Thread:
By: Lauren Knight
Colored by: Rebecca Nalty
Lettered by: Jodie Troutman
I Can’t Take You Anywhere:
By: Robert Hack
Disturbed Ground:
Written by: Chris Roberson
Illustrated by: Shane Oakley
Letters by: Pat Brosseau
Cassie Part Three:
Written by: Sam Humphries
Illustrated by: Eleonora Carlini
Letters by: Jodie Troutman
Main Cover by: Rebeca Puebla
Variant Covers by: Jenny Frison, Dillon Snook, Rebeca Puebla, Miguel Mercado
Price: $ 5.99 US
Rating: 2 out of 5 stars
Website: www.boom-studios.com
Comments: “Away Message”
A man forms a connection with a monster and manages to escape its world—only to discover that the real world is far more nightmarish. There isn’t a lot of depth to the story, but the final message lands clearly and effectively.
“The Thread”
This story focuses on a woman struggling with her self-image and internalized body shaming. While the theme comes across strongly—thanks in large part to the art—the ending feels abrupt and could have used more explanation. That said, there’s an underlying sense of hope that carries through the narrative.
“I Can’t Take You Anywhere”
This entry consists of three single-panel stories, none of which fully connect or make much sense. The artwork is serviceable, but without a clear narrative or visual payoff, it doesn’t leave much of an impression.
“Disturbed Ground”
Gravediggers working to rebury bodies encounter something unexpected beneath the surface. One man rises to defend his world against a dark, ancient force. The story leans into its eerie premise, and the artwork effectively delivers a genuinely creepy atmosphere.
“Cassie Part Three”
Cassie and her baseball team are deep into a wild party scene, but beneath it all lies a connection to something far more sinister—an evil force tied to both the team and Cassie’s grandfather. The story keeps readers guessing, ending on an intriguing note. The art contrasts cute, lively characters with an underlying demonic edge. Cassie stands out as a compelling character—someone you’re drawn to, yet wary of what she might be capable of.

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