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Locke & Key: Welcome to Lovecraft
Locke & Key Welcome To Lovecraft #1 Legacy Edition
Locke & Key tells of Keyhouse, an unlikely New England mansion, with fantastic doors that transform all who dare to walk through them. Home to a hate-filled and relentless creature that will not rest until it forces open the most terrible door of them all...
Unknown Binding
First published January 1, 2008
About the author
Joe Hill
485 books31.3k followersJoe Hill's debut, Heart-Shaped Box, won the Bram Stoker Award for Best First Novel. His second, Horns, was made into a film freakfest starring Daniel Radcliffe. His other novels include NOS4A2, and his #1 New York Times Best-Seller, The Fireman... which was also the winner of a 2016 Goodreads Choice Award for Best Horror Novel.
He writes short stories too. Some of them were gathered together in his prize-winning collection, 20th Century Ghosts.
He won the Eisner Award for Best Writer for his long running comic book series, Locke & Key, co-created with illustrator and art wizard Gabriel Rodriguez.
He lives in New Hampshire with a corgi named McMurtry after a certain beloved writer of cowboy tales. His next book, Strange Weather, a collection of novellas, storms into bookstores in October of 2017.
He writes short stories too. Some of them were gathered together in his prize-winning collection, 20th Century Ghosts.
He won the Eisner Award for Best Writer for his long running comic book series, Locke & Key, co-created with illustrator and art wizard Gabriel Rodriguez.
He lives in New Hampshire with a corgi named McMurtry after a certain beloved writer of cowboy tales. His next book, Strange Weather, a collection of novellas, storms into bookstores in October of 2017.
Ratings & Reviews
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 113 reviews
August 21, 2015
That's why I like reading Comics/Graphic Novel so much!
Great story and art! Highly Recommend this as a must read!
February 19, 2020
Very different from the tv adaptation!!! The art is very graphic so.. not for everyone. I think I like the graphic novels more.
August 15, 2024
Sin comentarios todavía. Son muy poquitinas páginas y aún me queda bastante por leer, sólo para completar la primera parte.
De momento los dibujos y el estilo en general, resultan diferentes que en la serie, aunque la historia hasta ahora sea más o menos la misma. Todo se ve más... siniestro.
De momento los dibujos y el estilo en general, resultan diferentes que en la serie, aunque la historia hasta ahora sea más o menos la misma. Todo se ve más... siniestro.
December 14, 2019
Fantastic. Really off-putting in the best way.
Reading in anticipation of the Netflix series!
Reading in anticipation of the Netflix series!
October 26, 2023
Oh my god what an excellent introduction to a series! I don't exactly like the art style but the storytelling is phenomenal. Can't wait for the next issue!
December 27, 2021
Pretty interesting looks like this will be kind of a creepy house story.
What about the killer kid, who was he talking too and where will he go when he escapes.
That key looked sick love it.
What about the killer kid, who was he talking too and where will he go when he escapes.
That key looked sick love it.
May 10, 2020
Wow! This graphic novel was excellent!
I had seen the TV series pop up while scrolling through Netflix, and ignored it because it's clearly a young adult fantasy show which I have zero interest in. Although I had heard of the graphic novels, I didn't realize until recently that they were written by Joe Hill, so I thought I would give it a shot.
This book is much darker and more violent than I was expecting, which is a good thing. I think it's right on the borderline of being categorized as young adult over adult. Judging by the ending I'm assuming the next book will have more teen angst stuff that normally comes along with YA stuff, and is what turns me off from reading YA in general.
The art is fantastic, and the panels and text flowed really well. I'll continue reading the series.
I had seen the TV series pop up while scrolling through Netflix, and ignored it because it's clearly a young adult fantasy show which I have zero interest in. Although I had heard of the graphic novels, I didn't realize until recently that they were written by Joe Hill, so I thought I would give it a shot.
This book is much darker and more violent than I was expecting, which is a good thing. I think it's right on the borderline of being categorized as young adult over adult. Judging by the ending I'm assuming the next book will have more teen angst stuff that normally comes along with YA stuff, and is what turns me off from reading YA in general.
The art is fantastic, and the panels and text flowed really well. I'll continue reading the series.
October 21, 2014
Psst. Hey, you. Yeah, you. You wanna see something really scary? Here. It’s the first volume of Joe Hill’s horror comic Locke and Key: Welcome to Lovecraft, the trade collection of the first six chapters in this story. The art is done by Gabriel Rodriguez. The volume is beautifully drawn, emotionally authentic and downright scary.
In the opening pages, a deranged student, Sam Lesser, savagely murders high school guidance counselor Rendell Locke. Only the quick thinking of Rendell’s children, Tyler, Kinsey and Bode, and their mother Nina’s ferocity, save them ... Read More: http://www.fantasyliterature.com/revi...
In the opening pages, a deranged student, Sam Lesser, savagely murders high school guidance counselor Rendell Locke. Only the quick thinking of Rendell’s children, Tyler, Kinsey and Bode, and their mother Nina’s ferocity, save them ... Read More: http://www.fantasyliterature.com/revi...
July 1, 2022
So, I try to read the book if it's adapted before watching it. So I wanted to read this comic for a long time but when it was adapted for Netflix I had to read it so doing that now. This was an interesting start and I shall see how it goes ahead.
I have always loved comics, and I hope that I will always love them. Even though I grew up reading local Indian comics like Raj Comics or Diamond Comics or even Manoj Comics, now's the time to catch up on the international and classic comics and Graphic novels. I am on my quest to read as many comics as I can. I Love comics to bits, may comics never leave my side. I loved reading this and love reading more, you should also read what you love and then just Keep on Reading.
I have always loved comics, and I hope that I will always love them. Even though I grew up reading local Indian comics like Raj Comics or Diamond Comics or even Manoj Comics, now's the time to catch up on the international and classic comics and Graphic novels. I am on my quest to read as many comics as I can. I Love comics to bits, may comics never leave my side. I loved reading this and love reading more, you should also read what you love and then just Keep on Reading.
April 14, 2015
Μια από τις σειρές που έχω βάλει από καιρό στο μάτι. Ξεκινάει απίθανα , με εξαιρετικά φλας-μπακ/παραλληλισμούς και χαρακτήρες-ιδέες-πλοκή πολύ καλά. Πω-πω, ζεστάθηκα!
October 10, 2017
A graphic novel full of mystery, tragedy, magic keys, and murder. Frightening and compelling, but quite bloody. Not for those with weak stomachs.
February 9, 2020
Great intro to the family. The story is cool and intriguing. The artwork is great :)
September 1, 2020
It's possible I have read this single issue more than any other that comes to mind. I'm notoriously not much of a re-reader. But something always draws me back to this... leave it to Joe Hill and Stephen King to be able to blend genuinely disturbing concepts with down to earth whimsy and honest to god heart.
I actually read this one in the security office in the spring of 2017. It was a seminal moment for me. I was just finishing up Sandman and needed another series to take its place. This was what found me in my time of need. It doesn't quite have the ponderous nor pretentious aspects of Sandman. (Which are usually what I love about Sandman, but in this case, for this book, its a strength).
This issue in particular has been burned into my memory. I just remember getting up from my seat when it was over and going for a long walk through the arena in the after hours. Long walks are always necessary when you finish something amazing. I did the same after finishing Blue is the Warmest Color.
It's a tight as all hell thrill ride that juxtaposes between true horror and rip your heart out despair. The panels with Tyler sitting by the window in San Francisco has likewise been etched into my mind for all time. I still think about it even now. That's kinda why I wanted to revisit it. I wanted to see if I could replicate those magical feelings I experienced the first time around. Sadly I wasn't able to. But I got just enough juice outta it to confirm it's still the real deal. One of my all time favorite runs, period.
I actually read this one in the security office in the spring of 2017. It was a seminal moment for me. I was just finishing up Sandman and needed another series to take its place. This was what found me in my time of need. It doesn't quite have the ponderous nor pretentious aspects of Sandman. (Which are usually what I love about Sandman, but in this case, for this book, its a strength).
This issue in particular has been burned into my memory. I just remember getting up from my seat when it was over and going for a long walk through the arena in the after hours. Long walks are always necessary when you finish something amazing. I did the same after finishing Blue is the Warmest Color.
It's a tight as all hell thrill ride that juxtaposes between true horror and rip your heart out despair. The panels with Tyler sitting by the window in San Francisco has likewise been etched into my mind for all time. I still think about it even now. That's kinda why I wanted to revisit it. I wanted to see if I could replicate those magical feelings I experienced the first time around. Sadly I wasn't able to. But I got just enough juice outta it to confirm it's still the real deal. One of my all time favorite runs, period.
February 25, 2020
The moment I discovered the "Locke and Key" series on Netflix, I was hooked. So, when I found out that the show was based on a series of comic books, I knew I had to read them. Even more so when I found out that the author (Joe Hill) is the son of horror-master Steven King). Joe Hill, who uses a psuedo-name to distance himself from his famous father) is also the author of "Heart-Shaped Box." If you haven't either the comics or his novels, I highly suggest them.
"Locke and Key" is about three kids who have moved to the New England (like father, like son) of Lovecraft. They move into their father's family home "Key House" after the father died of a deranged former student, Sam Lesser. The youngest of the three siblings, Bode, has discovered that Key House is a hiding place of a number of magic keys. Each key has a different magical ability. For instance, the Anywhere Key can take you anywhere you can imagine. The house is also home to a restless and vengeful spirit. She will do anything to find the keys and ultimately unlock all the doors which can only be opened by these keys.
If you get a chance to watch the show, I highly recommend doing so. And, like I said before, if you enjoy suspense-filled novels or have read anything by Joe Hill (or his well-known father), you definitely want to unlock your imagination by reading these comics. Myself, I already have the next book and cannot wait to crack the cover.
"Locke and Key" is about three kids who have moved to the New England (like father, like son) of Lovecraft. They move into their father's family home "Key House" after the father died of a deranged former student, Sam Lesser. The youngest of the three siblings, Bode, has discovered that Key House is a hiding place of a number of magic keys. Each key has a different magical ability. For instance, the Anywhere Key can take you anywhere you can imagine. The house is also home to a restless and vengeful spirit. She will do anything to find the keys and ultimately unlock all the doors which can only be opened by these keys.
If you get a chance to watch the show, I highly recommend doing so. And, like I said before, if you enjoy suspense-filled novels or have read anything by Joe Hill (or his well-known father), you definitely want to unlock your imagination by reading these comics. Myself, I already have the next book and cannot wait to crack the cover.
September 13, 2017
I thought that Lovecraft would be a town full of the goth versions of hippies. It's not.
I thought that Keyhouse would have an Uncle Fester-like character in the attic who would put light bulbs in his mouth to make them glow. Wrong again.
What Locke and Key does have is a brutal murder that isn't at all what it seems, secrets that are buried deep, and many doors that do many things if you hold the right key. For instance, one could unlock a door and be magically transported into another dimension where people only speak Dothraki and Klingon. Or you could go to the magical land of cupcakes. Or be made into a child, an old person, a boy, a girl, or a bird. Anyway you get the idea. Different doors do different things.
Then there's the evil "echo" trapped in the well and who seems to know a lot about the power of the keys.
In a town called Lovecraft, I'm guessing that being locked in the wine cellar isn't the worst thing that can happen to you.
This first entry has been good with regards to storyline. The art is good but I would prefer a slightly more Gothic approach. I just feel like I am reading Lovecraft but watching a Gorillaz video. Black and white or maybe a less vibrant use of color would match the tone better. That's just my personal feeling. I will read on. . .
I thought that Keyhouse would have an Uncle Fester-like character in the attic who would put light bulbs in his mouth to make them glow. Wrong again.
What Locke and Key does have is a brutal murder that isn't at all what it seems, secrets that are buried deep, and many doors that do many things if you hold the right key. For instance, one could unlock a door and be magically transported into another dimension where people only speak Dothraki and Klingon. Or you could go to the magical land of cupcakes. Or be made into a child, an old person, a boy, a girl, or a bird. Anyway you get the idea. Different doors do different things.
Then there's the evil "echo" trapped in the well and who seems to know a lot about the power of the keys.
In a town called Lovecraft, I'm guessing that being locked in the wine cellar isn't the worst thing that can happen to you.
This first entry has been good with regards to storyline. The art is good but I would prefer a slightly more Gothic approach. I just feel like I am reading Lovecraft but watching a Gorillaz video. Black and white or maybe a less vibrant use of color would match the tone better. That's just my personal feeling. I will read on. . .
January 26, 2020
Whoa.
This graphic novel is a beautifully illustrated and masterfully told combination of my deepest fears and wildest dreams.
The Locke children are wonderful characters. The horrors they suffer are heartbreaking, but each of them finds resilience in their own way. Not only does this make you root for them but really helps you learn who they are. Joe Hill deftly unveils a mystery whose pieces are threaded throughout both the lighthearted and the dreadful moments; one that builds in intrigue so that you can't wait to see what's next.
Gabriel Rodriguez's illustrations have a whimsical quality to them that covey the magical nature of Key House so well, but also makes some of the more gruesome and terrifying panels a little easier to ingest.
This story such a wonderfully unique combination of horror and magic - I can't wait to read the next installation!
This graphic novel is a beautifully illustrated and masterfully told combination of my deepest fears and wildest dreams.
The Locke children are wonderful characters. The horrors they suffer are heartbreaking, but each of them finds resilience in their own way. Not only does this make you root for them but really helps you learn who they are. Joe Hill deftly unveils a mystery whose pieces are threaded throughout both the lighthearted and the dreadful moments; one that builds in intrigue so that you can't wait to see what's next.
Gabriel Rodriguez's illustrations have a whimsical quality to them that covey the magical nature of Key House so well, but also makes some of the more gruesome and terrifying panels a little easier to ingest.
This story such a wonderfully unique combination of horror and magic - I can't wait to read the next installation!
March 14, 2020
I knew nothing about this story before going in, though I have read several Joe Hill novels. This story follows Hill's usual trajectory, including kids as main characters and evil people being controlled by supernatural forces.
Those forces themselves aren't exactly explained here, though it's just the first in a long series of graphic novels, so that makes sense. As a first outing, it definitely piques interest well, though the antagonist's arc mirrors Stephen King's IT pretty closely.
Regardless, it's an intriguing setup with some really graphic art. Definitely a unique feel.
Those forces themselves aren't exactly explained here, though it's just the first in a long series of graphic novels, so that makes sense. As a first outing, it definitely piques interest well, though the antagonist's arc mirrors Stephen King's IT pretty closely.
Regardless, it's an intriguing setup with some really graphic art. Definitely a unique feel.
July 15, 2020
I just finished the show and I thought "Okay, I'm just gonna see what's different between the show and the comics". I really loved the show but now I start to think that it is quite different from the original idea and I have to say that the comics are darker but awesome.
I loved both, the series is more based on fantasy and less on violence which is better in a way that can touch a bigger audience.
I loved both, the series is more based on fantasy and less on violence which is better in a way that can touch a bigger audience.
April 7, 2020
I took this out from my public library, I was curious since I liked the show so much (and now have to wait for season two!).
There's quite a difference between the comic book and the Netflix version...but I really like both for different reasons.
I'm interested to see what happens since Sam is dealt with already in this book and things are getting pretty interesting...
There's quite a difference between the comic book and the Netflix version...but I really like both for different reasons.
I'm interested to see what happens since Sam is dealt with already in this book and things are getting pretty interesting...
March 22, 2020
So great!! I see why they made this a show. I def already watched the show but I sooo enjoyed this graphic novel and will be reading the other volumes!! I love Joe hills writing and this was no exception and the illustrations are spectacular!!
March 6, 2020
Good story and great artwork. I want to watch the Netflix series. Love Joe Hill’s work.
March 13, 2020
I wanted to read this before starting the TV show and WOW!!!! It was awesome. I want to read more!
June 23, 2018
جو هِل هو كاتب هذه القصة المصورة. من الواضح جداً أن جو كاتب فذ، وبإمكانه أن يسحب القرّاء للعالم الفانتازي الذي يخلقه، ولكن بعد حين. أربكني تتابع الأحداث والصور منذ البداية، وذلك ببساطة لتشابه أشكال الشخصيات لبعضها البعض، ولعدم معرفتي أن هذه الصورة تمثل ماضي هذه الشخصية أو تلك. ولكن بعد عدة صفحات تعتاد على الطريقة، ويصبح الأمر أسهل وتشدك القصة بشكل أكبر. المفاتيح في قصر ما هي المحرك للشخصيات في هذه القصة، حتى وإن كان أغلبها لا يعرف ذلك بعد. سوف أتابع بقيةالسلسلة لأعرف ماذا سيحل بالشخصيات الرئيسيّة من أحداث. الجدير بالذكر أيضاً أن جو هِل هو إبن الكاتب الكبير ستيفن كينج، واضح أن هذا الشبل من ذاك الأسد. ولا يخفى تأثره بقصص هوارد لوڤكروفت كاتب ورسام قصص الرعب الشهيرة.
December 27, 2020
This comic introduces the Locke family and the terrible thing that has happened to them. Over the summer, they experienced the death of their father. One of Tyler’s, the eldest Locke kid, has killed him. Now, the Locke family has to undergo many changes. They have to move to their family home, Keyhouse, and go to a new school.
I watched the Netflix adaptation, so I thought I’d give the comic a try :).
I watched the Netflix adaptation, so I thought I’d give the comic a try :).
September 1, 2025
Blut, Düster und manchmal undurchsichtig. Ich mag diese Art von Comic. Man fühlt sich immer ein bisschen schmutzig beim lesen, aber die Geschichte fesselt einen so sehr, dass es einen nicht stört. Ich hab bereits das Audible Hörspiel gehört und fand es großartig, jetzt ist endlich der Comic an der Reihe.
8/10 ⭐
8/10 ⭐
March 20, 2020
I got through this in one morning. It was excellent!
There was a violent beginning, and troubled middle, and a suspenseful end. It is everything you could ask for in a introductory story for a graphic novel series.
The story was pretty easy to follow. A high school kid goes on a bit of killing spree, and it really messes up a family. They meet up later on, and (I think) it really messes up the family. There are voices (echoes), ghosts, keys, and secrets, none of which are really explained, leaving you with lots of questions or maybe ideas.
I plan to go through the rest of the series if I can find them at my library.
There was a violent beginning, and troubled middle, and a suspenseful end. It is everything you could ask for in a introductory story for a graphic novel series.
The story was pretty easy to follow. A high school kid goes on a bit of killing spree, and it really messes up a family. They meet up later on, and (I think) it really messes up the family. There are voices (echoes), ghosts, keys, and secrets, none of which are really explained, leaving you with lots of questions or maybe ideas.
I plan to go through the rest of the series if I can find them at my library.
July 1, 2016
The story is interesting so far, but I do not like the artwork at all. I dislike it to the point that it pulls me out of the story. I'm not continuing with the comic. Guess I'll try the audio book instead.
February 16, 2020
Picked this up to get an idea how the Netflix series differs, and they definitely disnified it and took out much of the gore and horror of the graphic novel. I thoroughly enjoyed this first installment. More, please.
February 24, 2020
I really enjoyed issue # 1. I liked the artwork and the story. I have watched the Netflix adaptation. I liked noticing the differences between the comic and the tv show. I love Joe Hill and I look forward to the next issue!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 113 reviews