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Murder Kingdom
You must be this tall…to DIE!
Tanith and her best friend are trapped overnight in a fantasy-themed amusement park where someone is killing the employees in the gruesome fashion of the original fairy tales! They have to unravel the mystery before they become the next victims and live never ever after…
Once upon a time, in a strange land called Florida, a masked psycho starts murdering cast members of the Storybook Kingdom theme park in ways identical to the gory original Grimms’ Fairy Tales. Princess-turned-detective Tanith is the only person who can unmask the killer before she and her friends are all Dying Unhappily Never After!
Toon-themed terror from six-time New York Times bestselling writer Fred (Marvel Zombies) Van Lente, artist Chris Panda (Chocklit Shoppe of Horrors: Night Shift, Rom First Strike), and letterer Becca Carey(Radiant Black, Golden Rage).
Tanith and her best friend are trapped overnight in a fantasy-themed amusement park where someone is killing the employees in the gruesome fashion of the original fairy tales! They have to unravel the mystery before they become the next victims and live never ever after…
Once upon a time, in a strange land called Florida, a masked psycho starts murdering cast members of the Storybook Kingdom theme park in ways identical to the gory original Grimms’ Fairy Tales. Princess-turned-detective Tanith is the only person who can unmask the killer before she and her friends are all Dying Unhappily Never After!
Toon-themed terror from six-time New York Times bestselling writer Fred (Marvel Zombies) Van Lente, artist Chris Panda (Chocklit Shoppe of Horrors: Night Shift, Rom First Strike), and letterer Becca Carey(Radiant Black, Golden Rage).
112 pages, Paperback
Published May 20, 2025
1 person is currently reading
32 people want to read
About the author
Fred Van Lente
1,365 books321 followersFred Van Lente is the New York Times-bestselling author of comics as varied as Archer & Armstrong (Harvey Award nominee, Best Series), Taskmaster, MODOK's 11, Amazing Spider-Man, Conan the Avenger, Weird Detective, and Cowboys & Aliens (upon which the 2011 movie was based), as well as the novels Ten Dead Comedians and The Con Artist.
Van Lente also specializes in entertaining readers with offbeat histories with the help of his incredibly talented artists. He has written the multiple-award winning Action Philosophers!, The Comic Book History of Comics, Action Presidents! (all drawn by Ryan Dunlavey), and The Comic Book Story of Basketball with Joe Cooper (Ten Speed September 2020).
He lives in Brooklyn with his wife Crystal Skillman, and some mostly ungrateful cats.
Van Lente also specializes in entertaining readers with offbeat histories with the help of his incredibly talented artists. He has written the multiple-award winning Action Philosophers!, The Comic Book History of Comics, Action Presidents! (all drawn by Ryan Dunlavey), and The Comic Book Story of Basketball with Joe Cooper (Ten Speed September 2020).
He lives in Brooklyn with his wife Crystal Skillman, and some mostly ungrateful cats.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews
March 23, 2025
Thanks to NetGalley and Mad Cave Studios for e-arc of Murder Kingdom.
3.25 stars
Oh this was fun, a very refreshing mystery/slasher taking place in a very Disney-like theme park.
Tanith is a seventeen year old girl who dreams about designing and creating escape rooms. She finds her work at Storybook Kingdom very promising for her future career, as she enjoys the designs of it all, the way workers never break character and the audience is captivated in this fairy tale land.
One day, an ex friend crashes out in front of the audience and she's fired. Tanith is quickly hired as the replacement of this role and she's soon filling in for the show of princess Briar-Rose. However, a short time after, Tanith finds the previous princess dead in a very gruesome scene inside the park. This is the first in a series of murders that mimic the demise of the characters in the original Grimm's fairy tales.
This started off really good. The art style is simple but very fun and colorful. The setting has a charm, the gowns and costumes are pretty, the fact that we get to learn how these themes park work behind the scenes was super interesting. The clear complaints and digs to Disney were funny too.
I'd say I was really having fun the first two issues. When the murder spree started and Tanith was running around the park trying to solve the mystery of the killer was a bit underwhelming. It's in the nature of the story, not much time to develop characters gives way to a very rushed storyline that ends in an underwhelming reveal and final confrontation.
Still, I think it's a fun adventure that feels fresh. I liked the main character, she was brave and smart, knowing how to put the clues together as someone who loves escape rooms and puzzles. I liked the violent tone that clash with our childhood fairy tales. It had gruesome killings that made it feel like Tanith was really in danger. The little comments against corporate shenanigans were good too, interesting. But at the end, the pacing was a bit of a mess and it felt like the execution just needed more time to refine elements of the story. I d be interested in reading more from this author though.
3.25 stars
Oh this was fun, a very refreshing mystery/slasher taking place in a very Disney-like theme park.
Tanith is a seventeen year old girl who dreams about designing and creating escape rooms. She finds her work at Storybook Kingdom very promising for her future career, as she enjoys the designs of it all, the way workers never break character and the audience is captivated in this fairy tale land.
One day, an ex friend crashes out in front of the audience and she's fired. Tanith is quickly hired as the replacement of this role and she's soon filling in for the show of princess Briar-Rose. However, a short time after, Tanith finds the previous princess dead in a very gruesome scene inside the park. This is the first in a series of murders that mimic the demise of the characters in the original Grimm's fairy tales.
This started off really good. The art style is simple but very fun and colorful. The setting has a charm, the gowns and costumes are pretty, the fact that we get to learn how these themes park work behind the scenes was super interesting. The clear complaints and digs to Disney were funny too.
I'd say I was really having fun the first two issues. When the murder spree started and Tanith was running around the park trying to solve the mystery of the killer was a bit underwhelming. It's in the nature of the story, not much time to develop characters gives way to a very rushed storyline that ends in an underwhelming reveal and final confrontation.
Still, I think it's a fun adventure that feels fresh. I liked the main character, she was brave and smart, knowing how to put the clues together as someone who loves escape rooms and puzzles. I liked the violent tone that clash with our childhood fairy tales. It had gruesome killings that made it feel like Tanith was really in danger. The little comments against corporate shenanigans were good too, interesting. But at the end, the pacing was a bit of a mess and it felt like the execution just needed more time to refine elements of the story. I d be interested in reading more from this author though.
March 31, 2025
Murder Kingdom by Fred Van Lente is a quirky, offbeat graphic novel that's equal parts fun and strange. Imagine visiting Disney World, but with a twist, there’s a murderer on the loose, and the performers are forced to stay in character. The absurdity of it all leads to some genuinely hilarious moments, and it's clear the writer is in on the joke. The art is vibrant and captures a modern, fairytale-like feel, which adds to the overall charm. While the story is decent and the visuals are solid, it’s an enjoyable experience that doesn’t quite leave a lasting impression.
October 27, 2025
Wasn’t really feeling this one. While I liked the idea of the story and the beginning was intriguing, I didn’t find myself connecting with the characters. They seemed flat. For instance, the sidekick only appeared as needed and seemed to have no natural reactions to the murders in this theme park. However, I did appreciate the cleanly defined illustration style.
March 23, 2025
This story had the potential to be a really great and sharp satire of the eerie reality behind massive theme parks like Disney, but it fell short in execution. The premise was intriguing, blending murder, mystery, and corporate spectacle, but the weak dialogue, underdeveloped characters, and lackluster mystery made it a frustrating read.
Visually, the art style was too simplistic, which might not have been a dealbreaker if the characters had at least been drawn consistently. Instead, the inconsistent facial designs kept throwing me off. On top of that, the characters themselves were more annoying than engaging, making it hard to care about their fates.
Something else that ticked me off was how the story leaned on shock value rather than substance. The excessive gore felt like a crutch, as if the book was trying to distract from its lack of effort in crafting a stronger plot or more compelling mysteries. Instead of using its setting to deliver a smart or biting critique, it relied on cheap thrills.
Ultimately, while this story had all the ingredients for a darkly entertaining satire, it didn’t deliver for me. It’s a missed opportunity that could have been much sharper in both its writing and visuals.
Visually, the art style was too simplistic, which might not have been a dealbreaker if the characters had at least been drawn consistently. Instead, the inconsistent facial designs kept throwing me off. On top of that, the characters themselves were more annoying than engaging, making it hard to care about their fates.
Something else that ticked me off was how the story leaned on shock value rather than substance. The excessive gore felt like a crutch, as if the book was trying to distract from its lack of effort in crafting a stronger plot or more compelling mysteries. Instead of using its setting to deliver a smart or biting critique, it relied on cheap thrills.
Ultimately, while this story had all the ingredients for a darkly entertaining satire, it didn’t deliver for me. It’s a missed opportunity that could have been much sharper in both its writing and visuals.
October 29, 2025
If you have ever wondered what the results would look like if Agatha Christie designed theme park rides look no further than "Murder Kingdom". This graphic novel is a fun, scary and intelligent book that draws on the darker versions of classic fairy tales and is not afraid to poke fun at the biggest name in theme park entertainment. Expect a celebration of the darker side of the Grimm tales, a handless villain, misery and chaos at the happiest place on earth, a recluse that makes Howard Hughes look like an extrovert and a self-rescuing princess with mad detective skills.
Thanks to NetGalley and Mad Cave Studios for providing me with an eARC in exchange for my honest review.
Thanks to NetGalley and Mad Cave Studios for providing me with an eARC in exchange for my honest review.
April 21, 2025
I received an ARC from NetGalley for an honest review
This was a fun mystery combining the murderous moments from a number of classic fairytales and Agathy Christie set in a public domain absolutely not Disney analogue.
The writing was pretty good, but didn't blow me away, but the premise is great.
The art is good with a few great gruesome moments.
Ultimately, it was an interesting read that didn't knock my socks off, but I had a decent enough time.
This was a fun mystery combining the murderous moments from a number of classic fairytales and Agathy Christie set in a public domain absolutely not Disney analogue.
The writing was pretty good, but didn't blow me away, but the premise is great.
The art is good with a few great gruesome moments.
Ultimately, it was an interesting read that didn't knock my socks off, but I had a decent enough time.
April 29, 2025
Review submitted on social media for MadCave Studios.
This was so fun!
This was so fun!
May 26, 2025
There were a few intense moments. Very murdery. It seemed like the story was just murder after murder which I really liked. The art was so pretty the bright colors vie it the fairy tale feel which was a nice contrast to the dark story. I really wanted more.
4 stars
4 stars
March 18, 2025
My thanks to NetGalley and Mad Cave Studios for an advance copy of this graphic novel that is equal parts a workplace comedy, a satire of corporate America and theme parks, and a muder mystery in the theme of fairy tales.
I love stories that take me places, even if that place is one of my least favorite states of the Union, Florida. I also love stories that show me things that I never knew, like the inner world of a theme park, how the magic happens for instance. And I love a good mystery, especially a good mystery with a theme, like for example fairy tales. There is so much to work with, so much darkness in the tales we tell children. Add a dash of satire, a hint of workplace dramedy, and a lot of murder and one has a great story. Just like this one. Murder Kingdom is written by Fred Van Lente with art by Chris Panda, lettered by Becca Carey and tells of the second most magical place on Earth and the no good very bad day one woman has as she rises from train engineer to princess who saves herself, all while investigating a series of escalating murders.
Tanith is not living the dream in Storybook Kingdom, a theme park based on classic fairy tales, and not affiliated with the Mouse in anyway. Tanith has decided to not go to college, has just had the ashes of a grandmother dumped on her, something that happens a lot, but is still a park no-no. And quit her job, to work at a Cat Cafe. Before she can leave Tanith is asked to fill in for a park princess who flipped out on social media, causing a stink, as Tanith has red hair and the wig can not be found. Tanith agrees but in a short period of time finds the woman she is replacing, killed by a sword stroke to the head. The murder is covered up the Prince Charming, head of security, and Tanith wants to know what is going on, and how many murders has the charming prince been hiding. As Tanith and her best friend dig into the underworld of the theme park, secrets come to the surface, as do many more bodies. And Tanith might be next.
A story that is not only fun and funny, but dark and surprisingly violent. Just like a good Disney cartoon should be. Not only a take on them parks and the misery of working there, the story is very well presented and the mystery is quite good, with many red herrings, but a conclusion that makes sense. Tanith is a very good character, one that slowly unfolds, a fan of escape rooms, she has the ability to see things that few do. Along with the courage to back her friends, and figure things out. There is a large cast, but Van Lente does a good job of keeping them straight and unique. There are a lot of things going on, the sale of the park, people walking around in VR helmets, that is explained later, and a bit of union action, which all fit the story. The art is really good. Gross when it needs to be, ie death by acid, light and happy when showing the magic of a theme park, but dark when showing the different fairy tales used in the murders. I liked the change in styles which really added to the way the story was presented.
The book has a satisfactory conclusion, with hints of sequel I hope there is. This was a fun story with a lot of potential. I look forward to a Volume 2.
I love stories that take me places, even if that place is one of my least favorite states of the Union, Florida. I also love stories that show me things that I never knew, like the inner world of a theme park, how the magic happens for instance. And I love a good mystery, especially a good mystery with a theme, like for example fairy tales. There is so much to work with, so much darkness in the tales we tell children. Add a dash of satire, a hint of workplace dramedy, and a lot of murder and one has a great story. Just like this one. Murder Kingdom is written by Fred Van Lente with art by Chris Panda, lettered by Becca Carey and tells of the second most magical place on Earth and the no good very bad day one woman has as she rises from train engineer to princess who saves herself, all while investigating a series of escalating murders.
Tanith is not living the dream in Storybook Kingdom, a theme park based on classic fairy tales, and not affiliated with the Mouse in anyway. Tanith has decided to not go to college, has just had the ashes of a grandmother dumped on her, something that happens a lot, but is still a park no-no. And quit her job, to work at a Cat Cafe. Before she can leave Tanith is asked to fill in for a park princess who flipped out on social media, causing a stink, as Tanith has red hair and the wig can not be found. Tanith agrees but in a short period of time finds the woman she is replacing, killed by a sword stroke to the head. The murder is covered up the Prince Charming, head of security, and Tanith wants to know what is going on, and how many murders has the charming prince been hiding. As Tanith and her best friend dig into the underworld of the theme park, secrets come to the surface, as do many more bodies. And Tanith might be next.
A story that is not only fun and funny, but dark and surprisingly violent. Just like a good Disney cartoon should be. Not only a take on them parks and the misery of working there, the story is very well presented and the mystery is quite good, with many red herrings, but a conclusion that makes sense. Tanith is a very good character, one that slowly unfolds, a fan of escape rooms, she has the ability to see things that few do. Along with the courage to back her friends, and figure things out. There is a large cast, but Van Lente does a good job of keeping them straight and unique. There are a lot of things going on, the sale of the park, people walking around in VR helmets, that is explained later, and a bit of union action, which all fit the story. The art is really good. Gross when it needs to be, ie death by acid, light and happy when showing the magic of a theme park, but dark when showing the different fairy tales used in the murders. I liked the change in styles which really added to the way the story was presented.
The book has a satisfactory conclusion, with hints of sequel I hope there is. This was a fun story with a lot of potential. I look forward to a Volume 2.
March 17, 2025
I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review. This in no way impacted my opinions.
‘Murder Kingdom’ is a thrilling blend of fairy tales and horror, seamlessly brought to life in graphic novel format. With its darkly imaginative premise, vibrant artwork, and engaging characters, it’s an absolute page-turner that keeps you hooked from start to finish.
Plot: ★★★★★
The plot is fantastic, masterfully merging fairy tales with horror elements in a way that feels fresh and exciting. The story unfolds at a gripping pace, keeping readers on edge as they navigate the dangers of the twisted theme park. It balances suspense, action, and eerie fairy tale nostalgia perfectly, making for an unforgettable ride.
Character: ★★★★★
Tanith is a compelling protagonist - strong, determined, and easy to root for. The supporting cast adds so much depth to the story, with each character feeling distinct and purposeful. Some are likable and worth cheering for, while others make you eagerly anticipate their downfall. This variety in personalities adds to the tension and makes the stakes feel even higher.
Setting: ★★★★★
The theme park setting is brilliantly executed, practically leaping off the page. Every part of it feels immersive, blending whimsical fairy tale charm with ominous horror undertones. The detailed world-building makes it easy to lose yourself in this eerie, dangerous wonderland.
Illustrations: ★★★★★
The artwork is stunning - bright, bold, and filled with vibrant contrasts that enhance the story’s dual themes of fairy tale magic and creeping horror. The color choices and dynamic panel layouts make the action even more intense, perfectly capturing the unsettling beauty of the setting.
Engagement: ★★★★★
‘Murder Kingdom’ is an absolute page-turner. The suspense is relentless, and the combination of strong storytelling and captivating visuals makes it nearly impossible to put down. Every scene is packed with tension, and the fast-paced narrative keeps you fully invested until the very last page.
Readability: ★★★★★
The storytelling flows effortlessly, making it an easy and compelling read. The dialogue feels natural, the pacing is smooth, and the mix of text and visuals is well-balanced. Whether you're a graphic novel veteran or new to the format, this book is incredibly accessible.
Enjoyment: ★★★★★
I loved every moment of ‘Murder Kingdom’. It’s the perfect mix of dark fantasy, horror, and fairy tale nostalgia, all wrapped up in a visually stunning package. It’s gripping, chilling, and thoroughly entertaining - a must-read for fans of dark, twisted tales.
Fred Van Lente delivers a brilliantly eerie and exhilarating story in ‘Murder Kingdom’. With its captivating plot, memorable characters, and breathtaking artwork, it’s an absolute standout in the horror genre. Highly recommended for fans of dark fairy tales and suspenseful graphic novels!
‘Murder Kingdom’ is a thrilling blend of fairy tales and horror, seamlessly brought to life in graphic novel format. With its darkly imaginative premise, vibrant artwork, and engaging characters, it’s an absolute page-turner that keeps you hooked from start to finish.
Plot: ★★★★★
The plot is fantastic, masterfully merging fairy tales with horror elements in a way that feels fresh and exciting. The story unfolds at a gripping pace, keeping readers on edge as they navigate the dangers of the twisted theme park. It balances suspense, action, and eerie fairy tale nostalgia perfectly, making for an unforgettable ride.
Character: ★★★★★
Tanith is a compelling protagonist - strong, determined, and easy to root for. The supporting cast adds so much depth to the story, with each character feeling distinct and purposeful. Some are likable and worth cheering for, while others make you eagerly anticipate their downfall. This variety in personalities adds to the tension and makes the stakes feel even higher.
Setting: ★★★★★
The theme park setting is brilliantly executed, practically leaping off the page. Every part of it feels immersive, blending whimsical fairy tale charm with ominous horror undertones. The detailed world-building makes it easy to lose yourself in this eerie, dangerous wonderland.
Illustrations: ★★★★★
The artwork is stunning - bright, bold, and filled with vibrant contrasts that enhance the story’s dual themes of fairy tale magic and creeping horror. The color choices and dynamic panel layouts make the action even more intense, perfectly capturing the unsettling beauty of the setting.
Engagement: ★★★★★
‘Murder Kingdom’ is an absolute page-turner. The suspense is relentless, and the combination of strong storytelling and captivating visuals makes it nearly impossible to put down. Every scene is packed with tension, and the fast-paced narrative keeps you fully invested until the very last page.
Readability: ★★★★★
The storytelling flows effortlessly, making it an easy and compelling read. The dialogue feels natural, the pacing is smooth, and the mix of text and visuals is well-balanced. Whether you're a graphic novel veteran or new to the format, this book is incredibly accessible.
Enjoyment: ★★★★★
I loved every moment of ‘Murder Kingdom’. It’s the perfect mix of dark fantasy, horror, and fairy tale nostalgia, all wrapped up in a visually stunning package. It’s gripping, chilling, and thoroughly entertaining - a must-read for fans of dark, twisted tales.
Fred Van Lente delivers a brilliantly eerie and exhilarating story in ‘Murder Kingdom’. With its captivating plot, memorable characters, and breathtaking artwork, it’s an absolute standout in the horror genre. Highly recommended for fans of dark fairy tales and suspenseful graphic novels!
June 12, 2025
I picked up issue 1 of this a while back and was super excited, however I think they were out of copies of the next issuses so I had to wait for the trade. Yeah... the wait was not worth it. I loved the first issue, and maybe it would have been more enjoyable if i read this monthly instead of in one go. However that feels like a cop out. I was really into the anti capitalist/ obvious critique of Disney. But it felt so surface level. The main line that stood out is a character saying the company repackages public domain classic fairy tales to sell to audiences, which like is a thing Disney does! Also they show workers unions but beside that is just does the bare min for societial commentary sighhh. I was so excited T-T. The murder mystery was a big chunk of the story, which yeah its a murder mystery but I wish the commentary wasn't so hamfisted. If this came out a decade or so ago I feel lik this would have worked better. I think right now people are super anti Disney so its kinda easy to make a "hey massive corps suck!" and have people cheer. I wish they went deeper into that. Because the murder mystery becomes super hard to follow for me at least, that might just be me. I tedn to get mixed up watching mystery movies. But still doesn't excuse the awful ending. Which I will go into in spoilers.
Tbh I think its worth it to read the first issue at least? Because it's so good.
Also wasn't really a fan of the art style, it looks too digital you know. Like overrelying on digital art tricks. idk how to explain without a picture sorry T-T. Also I did notice an annoying layering error where a design on a characters shirt goes over the jacket. And it was kinda distracting. NITPICK but like come on man how do u not catch that.
The gore scenes are pretty good at least, very shocking and spooky.
Anyways it could have bene great. 2.5 stars.
SPOILERS!
There were two killers??? Because Mr. Oswald was having an affair, and faked his death "to get away from the real world" huh? And is like you're ruining my childhood. AGAIN i wish they went more into this. Idk i really liked how kinda realistic to real customer service jobs the bosses were. Like damn those bitches crazy but this is like huh??? Apologies if my thoguhts are scrambled I just don't know what to think of this character. The mystery ended up being lame, because I gen didn't know who did it lol. And when it was revealed I was like huh? Also the POC woman disguised as a white girl was interesting... idk what that was about??? I'm white so I can't say if this is a yikes but like... what a weird detail. Idk the pieces din't really make sense.
ALSO FUCK THAT ENDING. I hate hate HATE when horrors do sequel bait. I KNOW IT'S SUCH A COMMON TROPE. THAT BASICALLY EVERY HORROR HAS IT BUT PLEASE. Come onnn.
Tbh I think its worth it to read the first issue at least? Because it's so good.
Also wasn't really a fan of the art style, it looks too digital you know. Like overrelying on digital art tricks. idk how to explain without a picture sorry T-T. Also I did notice an annoying layering error where a design on a characters shirt goes over the jacket. And it was kinda distracting. NITPICK but like come on man how do u not catch that.
The gore scenes are pretty good at least, very shocking and spooky.
Anyways it could have bene great. 2.5 stars.
SPOILERS!
There were two killers??? Because Mr. Oswald was having an affair, and faked his death "to get away from the real world" huh? And is like you're ruining my childhood. AGAIN i wish they went more into this. Idk i really liked how kinda realistic to real customer service jobs the bosses were. Like damn those bitches crazy but this is like huh??? Apologies if my thoguhts are scrambled I just don't know what to think of this character. The mystery ended up being lame, because I gen didn't know who did it lol. And when it was revealed I was like huh? Also the POC woman disguised as a white girl was interesting... idk what that was about??? I'm white so I can't say if this is a yikes but like... what a weird detail. Idk the pieces din't really make sense.
ALSO FUCK THAT ENDING. I hate hate HATE when horrors do sequel bait. I KNOW IT'S SUCH A COMMON TROPE. THAT BASICALLY EVERY HORROR HAS IT BUT PLEASE. Come onnn.
August 5, 2025
If I have one complaint about many of the graphic novels that I read today, it's that they feel like more like self-contained pitches for Netflix projects rather than graphic novels. And while Murder Kingdom may be guilty of that, it's at least a movie I'd really like to see.
"Murder Kingdom" is a slasher in a theme park that's a cross between Disney and a renaissance fair. The main character Tanith must piece together the clues to find the killer, and as you would expect, murder and mayhem ensure with plenty of twists and turns. Van Lente makes the setting work well, with plenty of sharp humor and wity characters. Van Lente is no stranger to horror and humor with projects like Marvel Zombies 3 and Power Man and Iron Fist.
This is a fun little comic, and one I'd certainly look to see a sequel to eventually.
"Murder Kingdom" is a slasher in a theme park that's a cross between Disney and a renaissance fair. The main character Tanith must piece together the clues to find the killer, and as you would expect, murder and mayhem ensure with plenty of twists and turns. Van Lente makes the setting work well, with plenty of sharp humor and wity characters. Van Lente is no stranger to horror and humor with projects like Marvel Zombies 3 and Power Man and Iron Fist.
This is a fun little comic, and one I'd certainly look to see a sequel to eventually.
April 15, 2025
I received this book from Netgalley in exchange for feedback.
Tanith works at a totally not Disney fairytale theme park, suddenly upgrading to princess after the current Briar Rose has a public drinking spree. She takes the stage, only to end her shift finding the last princess asleep forever. As she uncovers more clues with a friend and the bodies start to mount, she has to try to stay alive while saving her friends and stopping this fairytale serial killer.
This book gave me Scooby Doo meets mascot horror, and was a lot of fun, if a little gruesome with some of the deaths. But, of course, the fairytales themselves are pretty harsh, so who’s surprised there. Throw a few twists in there and we had a pretty solid adventure of a graphic novel.
Tanith works at a totally not Disney fairytale theme park, suddenly upgrading to princess after the current Briar Rose has a public drinking spree. She takes the stage, only to end her shift finding the last princess asleep forever. As she uncovers more clues with a friend and the bodies start to mount, she has to try to stay alive while saving her friends and stopping this fairytale serial killer.
This book gave me Scooby Doo meets mascot horror, and was a lot of fun, if a little gruesome with some of the deaths. But, of course, the fairytales themselves are pretty harsh, so who’s surprised there. Throw a few twists in there and we had a pretty solid adventure of a graphic novel.
March 10, 2025
2.5
This story feels too highly of its mystery. It feels like a bunch of bland murder mystery cliches interspersed with extremely graphic gore. I was startled by just how gore-filled this comic was! I knew it involved a lot of murder, obviously, but the deaths are so gore-filled that it completely distracts from the plot. This plot also had so many moving parts that tried to be crazy plot twists that just felt boring. The art style was fine, but it also felt very basic. This story was just a massive flop for me.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publishers for an advanced copy in exchange for my honest review!
This story feels too highly of its mystery. It feels like a bunch of bland murder mystery cliches interspersed with extremely graphic gore. I was startled by just how gore-filled this comic was! I knew it involved a lot of murder, obviously, but the deaths are so gore-filled that it completely distracts from the plot. This plot also had so many moving parts that tried to be crazy plot twists that just felt boring. The art style was fine, but it also felt very basic. This story was just a massive flop for me.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publishers for an advanced copy in exchange for my honest review!
April 8, 2025
Thanks to netgalley, the author, and the publisher for the arc. This was okay! Its about a collected comic about storybook themed amusement park worker who is after a masked serial killing character. This was a great idea but it just didnt hit like I was expecting. I loved the art it was great, colorful and inticing. The storyline just felt rushed which made somethings confusing to understand. I wish there was more breathing room in between these crazy adrenaline- spiking events that occur. It would have given time to process what has happened and understand the situations better. But I did like the story overall, there was more than enough to keep me reading. A 3.75 star for me.
July 10, 2025
A slasher story set in an amusement park where the victims are "cast members" is an idea ripe with possibilities, and author Fred Van Lente and artist Chris Panda handle it with aplomb and an impressive amount of gore. By making the main characters "cast members" instead of visitors to the park, we get an inside look at how things work behind the scenes, which I found really interesting. I kind of wish Van Lente and Panda had been given more issues to work with so they could really up the suspense and red herrings, but as it is, this is a fun, fast-moving story with a whodunit that kept me guessing.
April 13, 2025
Tanith is a train conductor at Storybook Kingdom in Florida who gets drafted into the role of Brier Rose when the regular cast member has a public meltdown. But then Tanith discovers her dead body and thing just spiral from there! As the bodies mount up, Tanith tries to discover who is behind these murders while not ending up behind bars herself or worse - dead! Can she figure out what is happening in time to escape? Join her on her adventure and find out! Really makes you want to work at a theme park!
Thanks Netgalley and Mad Cave for the chance to read this title!
Thanks Netgalley and Mad Cave for the chance to read this title!
April 30, 2025
What the heck did I just read. A serial killer is on the loose in an amusement park based on fairytales. Yes, this is heavily coded to remind you of a certain mouse. But that mouse does play apart in this book. Based on the cover, this was not what I was expecting, but it was interesting, and it set itself up to be a series. While this was an interesting graphic novel, I think it would work better as a horror movie. Mainly because there are too many inconsistencies where the storyline drops and picks up under a different idea or topic.
June 5, 2025
**ARC provided by NetGalley for honest review**
Murder Kingdom by Fred Van Lente was...not for me, unfortunately. This is an adult murder mystery graphic novel set in a sort of parody Disney World. I'm not sure what I was expecting, but everything happened so fast with little explanation, and it seemed like some pages were out of order or missing, which made the second half very confusing. It was fine, but the characters, plot, and even the color scheme didn't really jive with me this time. I'm sure this will work for others though.
Murder Kingdom by Fred Van Lente was...not for me, unfortunately. This is an adult murder mystery graphic novel set in a sort of parody Disney World. I'm not sure what I was expecting, but everything happened so fast with little explanation, and it seemed like some pages were out of order or missing, which made the second half very confusing. It was fine, but the characters, plot, and even the color scheme didn't really jive with me this time. I'm sure this will work for others though.
June 15, 2025
Set in an amusement park, this is a story of murder and mayhem amongst the rides and entertainment of the park, but who is killing staff and investors, and why, and who will they kill next?
Tanith is trapped in the amusement park while her work colleagues are being picked off one by one. But who is the murderer and will she be next? This was very entertaining with bright artwork and a great sense of unease. Lots of running and screaming moments although the heroine seems to run towards danger instead of away from it. The story is engaging with good artwork.
Tanith is trapped in the amusement park while her work colleagues are being picked off one by one. But who is the murderer and will she be next? This was very entertaining with bright artwork and a great sense of unease. Lots of running and screaming moments although the heroine seems to run towards danger instead of away from it. The story is engaging with good artwork.
October 14, 2025
Theme park x absurdity x murders = a good one for Halloween. In this one we follow a girl named Tanith as around her murders start to happen at the theme park she works at. The murders are over the top, gross, gore, and eww. From being pecked to death by birds to being eaten by special stuff in the waters to more. There is a girl wandering around wearing a spooky mask and stabbing people. Tanith was a fun character, I love how she kept going even when things got very terrifying. The art was OK-ish. The ending, not a fan.
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November 6, 2025This was not what I expected. I thought it was going to be more of a mystery and less gory. I might have nightmares from this graphic novel. Do not read if you are squeamish - I regret my choices to read it.
If you like slasher/horror, you might enjoy this more than I did. Honestly not sure why I finished it because I hate horror, but it's a comic book and took maybe 30 min to read, so I guess by the time I realized it was too creepy for me, I was halfway through and thought it would be less scary to finish and know what happened than have the uncertainty lingering in my mind.
If you like slasher/horror, you might enjoy this more than I did. Honestly not sure why I finished it because I hate horror, but it's a comic book and took maybe 30 min to read, so I guess by the time I realized it was too creepy for me, I was halfway through and thought it would be less scary to finish and know what happened than have the uncertainty lingering in my mind.
March 6, 2025
Murder Kingdom #1 is a wild ride from start to finish. The theme park setting, with its eerie behind-the-scenes chaos, is both ridiculous and taken to the extreme—in a way that makes it irresistibly entertaining. The “killer among us” vibe adds a refreshing twist, blending gore, dark humor, and clever nods to a certain famous theme park. Fast-paced and thoroughly engaging, this first installment delivers exactly what you’d hope for: thrills, laughs, and a good dose of carnage.
April 9, 2025
This was fine, but not what I was expecting from the blurb. I wanted teens trapped overnight in a theme park getting murdered one by one, and that's not what this is. This is workers getting murdered at a theme park while it is open and only one person knows and is trying to do anything about it. I didn't see the murderer coming though, I'll give it that.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for a digital review copy.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for a digital review copy.
April 24, 2025
Someone who operates one of the fairground rides at a theme park gets 'promoted' to be Briar Rose when one of the lasses playing her has a meltdown at work, only for our lead to find the lass has also been murdered – and won't be alone in that… This is alright, but comes across as a trying-too-hard-yet-not-trying-enough Hammer horror from the time they had lost all relevance, revamped for the tweenage audience. Two and a half stars.
April 29, 2025
I received this DRC from NetGalley.
This was a fun story that combines horror with fairy tales. It was fast- paced and a quick read. I enjoyed the mystery aspect and general creepy feeling of the amusement park. As for the artwork, I think some of it was better than at other times. The lips of the main character kept changing and were sometimes oddly large, which was a bit distracting.
This was a fun story that combines horror with fairy tales. It was fast- paced and a quick read. I enjoyed the mystery aspect and general creepy feeling of the amusement park. As for the artwork, I think some of it was better than at other times. The lips of the main character kept changing and were sometimes oddly large, which was a bit distracting.
July 1, 2025
An interesting storyline. Things are going crazy in a thinly-veiled ripoff of Disney. Characters are going crazy. People are dying. It's going to be up to Tanith to try and survive as well as save her friends.
The artistic style was interesting. I didn't always realize that characters were the same people as the expressions/look wasn't particularly consistent. Interesting premise.
The artistic style was interesting. I didn't always realize that characters were the same people as the expressions/look wasn't particularly consistent. Interesting premise.
September 4, 2025
This has been one of my favorite graphic novel reads in the last year. I love a good murder mystery and the plot and characters were engaging and the art was beautifully done. I loved the idea of someone making a Disney like theme park but using the original Brothers Grimm stories, which are quite dark and grim (sorry had to use it :). When the killer is revealed it didn't feel forced.
April 19, 2025
3.5 stars
I liked this graphic novel. The story was fast paced and interesting, and I liked the murdery twists on the classic fairy tales. However, I feel like the reveal and the ending happened so quickly. I loved the art style though!
I liked this graphic novel. The story was fast paced and interesting, and I liked the murdery twists on the classic fairy tales. However, I feel like the reveal and the ending happened so quickly. I loved the art style though!
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