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Bone Parish #1
Bone Parish, Vol. 1
A necromantic horror series about an upstart crime family trafficking in a new designer drug that’s just hit the market made from the ashes of the dead.
A new drug is sweeping through the streets of New Orleans—one made from the ashes of the dead. Wars are being fought over who will control the supply, and the demand is rising. While the various criminal factions collide, users begin to experience terrifying visions of the dead coming back to life...through them. Eisner Award-nominated author Cullen Bunn (Harrow County, The Empty Man) and illustrator Jonas Scharf team up for Bone Parish, a haunting blend of horror and crime that takes an unflinching look at how we connect to—and disconnect from—the world around us.
A new drug is sweeping through the streets of New Orleans—one made from the ashes of the dead. Wars are being fought over who will control the supply, and the demand is rising. While the various criminal factions collide, users begin to experience terrifying visions of the dead coming back to life...through them. Eisner Award-nominated author Cullen Bunn (Harrow County, The Empty Man) and illustrator Jonas Scharf team up for Bone Parish, a haunting blend of horror and crime that takes an unflinching look at how we connect to—and disconnect from—the world around us.
107 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 7, 2019
15 people are currently reading
872 people want to read
About the author
Cullen Bunn
2,104 books1,061 followersCullen grew up in rural North Carolina, but now lives in the St. Louis area with his wife Cindy and his son Jackson. His noir/horror comic (and first collaboration with Brian Hurtt), The Damned, was published in 2007 by Oni Press. The follow-up, The Damned: Prodigal Sons, was released in 2008. In addition to The Sixth Gun, his current projects include Crooked Hills, a middle reader horror prose series from Evileye Books; The Tooth, an original graphic novel from Oni Press; and various work for Marvel and DC. Somewhere along the way, Cullen founded Undaunted Press and edited the critically acclaimed small press horror magazine, Whispers from the Shattered Forum.
All writers must pay their dues, and Cullen has worked various odd jobs, including Alien Autopsy Specialist, Rodeo Clown, Professional Wrestler Manager, and Sasquatch Wrangler.
And, yes, he has fought for his life against mountain lions and he did perform on stage as the World's Youngest Hypnotist. Buy him a drink sometime, and he'll tell you all about it.
Visit his website at www.cullenbunn.com.
All writers must pay their dues, and Cullen has worked various odd jobs, including Alien Autopsy Specialist, Rodeo Clown, Professional Wrestler Manager, and Sasquatch Wrangler.
And, yes, he has fought for his life against mountain lions and he did perform on stage as the World's Youngest Hypnotist. Buy him a drink sometime, and he'll tell you all about it.
Visit his website at www.cullenbunn.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 197 reviews
February 28, 2022
Excellent start to what looks like a new favorite for me.
A surprisingly sympathetic small (ish) crime family makes the moves to the big leagues with a new drug called Ash. Made with the bones of the dead, a strictly guarded recipe known only to the daughter of the family, this drug allows the user to experience portions of another's life.
And while the concept of Ash should be enough to carry the story, Bunn doesn't stop there.
The family drama is exquisitely done, and the twist with the father took me completely by surprise. I cared about each of these people and wanted to find out more, and that made the ending even more wonderfully excruciating.
The criminal side of things was also well done. You're honestly rooting for these killers and dealers to come out on top by the end of the last issue.
Recommended.
A surprisingly sympathetic small (ish) crime family makes the moves to the big leagues with a new drug called Ash. Made with the bones of the dead, a strictly guarded recipe known only to the daughter of the family, this drug allows the user to experience portions of another's life.
And while the concept of Ash should be enough to carry the story, Bunn doesn't stop there.
The family drama is exquisitely done, and the twist with the father took me completely by surprise. I cared about each of these people and wanted to find out more, and that made the ending even more wonderfully excruciating.
The criminal side of things was also well done. You're honestly rooting for these killers and dealers to come out on top by the end of the last issue.
Recommended.
February 14, 2020
Cullen Bunn's created another winner. The Winter family is quickly making a name for itself in New Orlean's underworld with a drug called ash that allows you to relive the memories of the corpse it was created from. This draws the attention of both New York and Mexican drug cartels. It's your typical crime noir with a supernatural slant.
Received a review copy from Boom! and NetGalley. All thoughts are my own and in no way influenced by the aforementioned.
Received a review copy from Boom! and NetGalley. All thoughts are my own and in no way influenced by the aforementioned.
December 19, 2018
Cullen Bunn’s cornered the market on shitty horror-themed comics – you wanna read something mega-dull with the superficial genre trappings of horror? He’s your dude! He’s like a one-man Hammer Horror of comics except his stuff isn’t even entertaining on a campy level.
Bone Parish is his latest crud-bucket of images and words. Set in N’Orleans, some family has magically puzzled out how to make an addictive street drug from corpses that makes you hallucinate said corpses’ life experiences: if they was a rock star, you get to experience being a rock star, if they was a porn star, etc. Some other crime family is muscling in on their hustle and bang bangs happen. Sound meet Fury and signify one big Nuthin!
It’s not even worth pointing out how such a drug could possibly work (how do you select the experience you’re after?), not least because this is a fantasy, but because the book has much bigger flaws. The premise might’ve been interesting in the hands of a more capable writer but Bunn fluffs it up. There’s barely any horror or crime – the piss-poor story is basically a shitty family melodrama peopled by instantly forgettable, unlikeable non-entities. I cared about these nobodies so little that when some started getting bumped off I barely noticed let alone felt anything! The art – whatever.
Boring Parish is the comics version of some bland, sub-Netflix TV show you’ll never watch and couldn’t imagine the audience for - in other words, Cullen Bunn does it again! He has written some quality horror comics in the past though and I recommend Death Follows or his Night of the Living Deadpool series for Marvel instead of this drek.
Bone Parish is his latest crud-bucket of images and words. Set in N’Orleans, some family has magically puzzled out how to make an addictive street drug from corpses that makes you hallucinate said corpses’ life experiences: if they was a rock star, you get to experience being a rock star, if they was a porn star, etc. Some other crime family is muscling in on their hustle and bang bangs happen. Sound meet Fury and signify one big Nuthin!
It’s not even worth pointing out how such a drug could possibly work (how do you select the experience you’re after?), not least because this is a fantasy, but because the book has much bigger flaws. The premise might’ve been interesting in the hands of a more capable writer but Bunn fluffs it up. There’s barely any horror or crime – the piss-poor story is basically a shitty family melodrama peopled by instantly forgettable, unlikeable non-entities. I cared about these nobodies so little that when some started getting bumped off I barely noticed let alone felt anything! The art – whatever.
Boring Parish is the comics version of some bland, sub-Netflix TV show you’ll never watch and couldn’t imagine the audience for - in other words, Cullen Bunn does it again! He has written some quality horror comics in the past though and I recommend Death Follows or his Night of the Living Deadpool series for Marvel instead of this drek.
July 13, 2022
Vol. 1 ★★★★★
Vol. 2 ★★★★★
Vol. 3 ★★★★★
A family in New Orleans has learned how to make a psychedelic drug from the ashes of corpses, allowing the user to feel as though they are living that dead person's memories for a time, or revisiting a scene with them.
RE-READ REVIEW: JULY 2022
Knowing that the series is finished now that Vol. 3 is out, I decided to go back from the beginning and re-read the first two volumes, and I'm so glad that I did. My tastes in graphic novels have shifted over the past 4 years or so, and what was originally a story that felt a bit poorly placed now feels streamlined and smooth; art that originally didn't quite meet my desires now strikes me as gorgeous and immensely detailed. I highly recommend this series to anyone looking for a dark horror/crime story with an atmospheric locale and a strong focus on family bonds and betrayals.
✨ Representation: multiple Black, Black/white biracial, and Latinx characters
✨ Content warnings for:
—————
ORIGINAL REVIEW: DECEMBER 2018
I would say to go into this graphic novel knowing as little as possible, because it's a really cool plotline that takes well to readers going in blind. The artwork isn't my favorite, but it's got a nice, grungy feel to it that fits the mood well enough. My only issue with the graphic novel is the same issue I've had with other works from Cullen Bunn: I found the storyline and pacing to be very jumpy and hard to follow at points. That said, I'd still definitely recommend checking the story out if you're intrigued by the synopsis and don't mind a bit of gore and murder.
Thank you so much to BOOM! Studios for providing me with this ARC in exchange for an honest review!
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May 8, 2019
So I really liked this! The story here is interesting -- we follow a family who are producing and selling a hot new drug that is made from the remains of the dead.
The art throughout was clean and easy to follow, and the story left me wanting more. I'll definitely be looking for the next volume of this one!
4 stars for Bone Parish Vol. 1
Thank you to NetGalley and BOOM! Studios for providing me with a DRC of this book.
The art throughout was clean and easy to follow, and the story left me wanting more. I'll definitely be looking for the next volume of this one!
4 stars for Bone Parish Vol. 1
Thank you to NetGalley and BOOM! Studios for providing me with a DRC of this book.
May 16, 2019
This is one intense and gory graphic novel. And yet it's also brilliant at the same time. The concept is that a family has created a new drug, one made from the ashes of the dead. Snorting it allows you to see the dead the ash is made from. So you could talk to, play with, party with, have sex with a dead person. Maybe it's a stranger, your friend or even a lover. Think of the possibilities! But of course with any drug there are extreme adverse reactions that can happen. And once it's successful everyone wants a slice of this new drug.
I really enjoyed the story here. There are a lot of things happening all at once; but as they are all related to the drug and mostly happening to the family members of the makers/creators of said Ash. This first volume gives just enough to get to know some of the characters, set-up the plot, and add some real moments of intrigue. Each of our people uses the drug in a slightly different way and each comes with it's own interesting side effects.
I would definitely keep reading this one if I saw it for cheap or at my library. It's not really to my personal style for graphic novels; but the art is decent, the gore isn't too much and the story is brilliant. I could see teenagers really loving this story; and it has the side effect of showing how dangerous drugs are in general.
Please note: I received an eARC of this book from the publisher via NetGalley. This is an honest and unbiased review.
I really enjoyed the story here. There are a lot of things happening all at once; but as they are all related to the drug and mostly happening to the family members of the makers/creators of said Ash. This first volume gives just enough to get to know some of the characters, set-up the plot, and add some real moments of intrigue. Each of our people uses the drug in a slightly different way and each comes with it's own interesting side effects.
I would definitely keep reading this one if I saw it for cheap or at my library. It's not really to my personal style for graphic novels; but the art is decent, the gore isn't too much and the story is brilliant. I could see teenagers really loving this story; and it has the side effect of showing how dangerous drugs are in general.
Please note: I received an eARC of this book from the publisher via NetGalley. This is an honest and unbiased review.
December 19, 2018
Personal rating: 3.75
This graphic novel truly starts off with an unsettling scene as a man is under the influence of this infamous drug in the middle of a public street. Now this drug is not your typical substance. It is made my grinding human bones into dust and when introduced into the body, the users mind is basically of that person. Digest a rock star's bone dust, you then imagine yourself as that rock star. You see it, hear it, feel it, and live it momentarily. This has obviously become VERY profitable for the moblike family that has created this illegal business venture but this criminal underworld always leads to more enemies and violence. Hence where our plot comes in.
I do wish the story had more bite. It was just your typical linear plotline of tragedy and then revenge between opposing groups so in a way, it became predictable toward the end. I wish the drug elements were used more creatively to add something fresh to the mob family tropes but the plot twists we do get are done with flare
The artwork truly sets the mood. It's dark, gloomy and has this noir feeling to it. The blues and greys give you this feeling like you're trying to conceal something the entire time. Like you're reading something you're not supposed to be reading.
I actually can't wait to continue with this series. I'm excited to see where the author takes this almost "magical" drug to next.
This graphic novel truly starts off with an unsettling scene as a man is under the influence of this infamous drug in the middle of a public street. Now this drug is not your typical substance. It is made my grinding human bones into dust and when introduced into the body, the users mind is basically of that person. Digest a rock star's bone dust, you then imagine yourself as that rock star. You see it, hear it, feel it, and live it momentarily. This has obviously become VERY profitable for the moblike family that has created this illegal business venture but this criminal underworld always leads to more enemies and violence. Hence where our plot comes in.
I do wish the story had more bite. It was just your typical linear plotline of tragedy and then revenge between opposing groups so in a way, it became predictable toward the end. I wish the drug elements were used more creatively to add something fresh to the mob family tropes but the plot twists we do get are done with flare
The artwork truly sets the mood. It's dark, gloomy and has this noir feeling to it. The blues and greys give you this feeling like you're trying to conceal something the entire time. Like you're reading something you're not supposed to be reading.
I actually can't wait to continue with this series. I'm excited to see where the author takes this almost "magical" drug to next.
March 9, 2022
A nearly intriguing mix of horror and crime fiction has a multiracial New Orleans family at its center. Grace Winters and her children control exclusive distribution of a new drug that lets users hallucinate the memories, talk to, and take on the skills and qualities of dead people. A mob war kicks off as the family is pressured by the New York mafia and a Mexican cartel to turn over the recipe.
The collections are pretty thin with just four issues of the comic book series in each, so I might pick up the next two to get the whole story.
The collections are pretty thin with just four issues of the comic book series in each, so I might pick up the next two to get the whole story.
February 13, 2019
Scarface meets necromancy.
A pretty good-if a bit slow-start to this series. My main gripe is that the rules of the drug aren't really explained. Sometimes it lets you talk to a dead person. Sometimes it gives you the skills of a dead person. Sometimes it lets you see a dead person's memories. Sometimes it just makes you feel really good. At this point, it seems like the main use of the drug is to do whatever the plot needs at the moment.
A pretty good-if a bit slow-start to this series. My main gripe is that the rules of the drug aren't really explained. Sometimes it lets you talk to a dead person. Sometimes it gives you the skills of a dead person. Sometimes it lets you see a dead person's memories. Sometimes it just makes you feel really good. At this point, it seems like the main use of the drug is to do whatever the plot needs at the moment.
November 28, 2023
Cullen Bunn has created a new dark and dangerous graphic novel series, and this necromantic horror story grabbed me on the first page and never let go.
A quick synopsis: “A new drug is sweeping through the streets of New Orleans—one made from the ashes of the dead. Wars are being fought over who will control the supply, while the demand only rises.”
The Winters family of New Orleans has discovered how to manufacture the ashes of the dead into a powerful hallucinogenic drug that lets the person snorting the drug experience everything the dead person lived through when they were alive. In charge of this operation are Grace and Andre, with their four adult children. The oldest, Brae, is chomping at the bit ready to take over the enterprise and questioning his mother. Brigitte is the scientist who is the only one who knows how to turn the dead into ash properly and won’t reveal to others how to do so as to keep her position in the family safe. Leon and Wade end up doing much of the grunt work for the family, with both of them questioning the morality of it all.
As the popularity of the drug grows in the Big Easy, other drug cartels realize the scope of the operation and want in on the action. Several contact Grace with offers of buy-outs but she refuses. Not surprisingly they don’t take it well and put a target on the family’s back. Some dirty cops are also involved, with Brae trying to control that aspect, but double-crosses are part of the game.
There are a few twists and turns in the narrative, with a surprising revelation that will make you backtrack to look for clues. The story has the potential for a thought-provoking moral debate about drug culture and the sanctity of life and for the body after death. My excitement for this new series rivals what I felt for Briggs Land, another layered crime saga with an intriguing family led by a strong woman.
The art by Jonas Scharf was perfect for the story and was reminiscent for me of Gabriel Rodriguez who illustrates the Locke and Key series, which is high praise indeed from me. He establishes the Winters family in a distinct manner, showing a welcome diversity within the family, in addition to when he draws other characters and realistic crowd scenes. The colorist Alex Guimarães really sets the tone with the coloring with an earthen palette for everyday life, and vibrant pinks and purples to signify the hallucinogenic effect.
As much as I loved the story, I have a few criticisms. The big one: how is the drug controlled by the user? How do they tap into the specific memory of the deceased, as they would have a lifetime of memories to choose from? How do memories from the past physically manifest in those who are taking the drug? Will this be explained, or do we just have to have a suspension of disbelief and go with the flow? Also, while I love that Grace is portrayed as a powerful and still sexy matriarch of the family, she looks too young to be a mother to her children, especially Brae. I, myself, am a mother to three teens and I still want to be thought of as a hottie, but Grace should be realistically aged just a tiny bit more.
I believe this new series has a lot of potential for growth and I absolutely will be reading future volumes, as I wish to find out what consequences are in store for the Winters family and those who choose to take the drug. Thank you to NetGalley for approving me to read this novel early, as I believe this series could really take off after its release in March. (Actual review is 4.5/5, but I rounded up)
This review can also be found on my blog: https://graphicnovelty2.com/2019/01/1...
A quick synopsis: “A new drug is sweeping through the streets of New Orleans—one made from the ashes of the dead. Wars are being fought over who will control the supply, while the demand only rises.”
The Winters family of New Orleans has discovered how to manufacture the ashes of the dead into a powerful hallucinogenic drug that lets the person snorting the drug experience everything the dead person lived through when they were alive. In charge of this operation are Grace and Andre, with their four adult children. The oldest, Brae, is chomping at the bit ready to take over the enterprise and questioning his mother. Brigitte is the scientist who is the only one who knows how to turn the dead into ash properly and won’t reveal to others how to do so as to keep her position in the family safe. Leon and Wade end up doing much of the grunt work for the family, with both of them questioning the morality of it all.
As the popularity of the drug grows in the Big Easy, other drug cartels realize the scope of the operation and want in on the action. Several contact Grace with offers of buy-outs but she refuses. Not surprisingly they don’t take it well and put a target on the family’s back. Some dirty cops are also involved, with Brae trying to control that aspect, but double-crosses are part of the game.
There are a few twists and turns in the narrative, with a surprising revelation that will make you backtrack to look for clues. The story has the potential for a thought-provoking moral debate about drug culture and the sanctity of life and for the body after death. My excitement for this new series rivals what I felt for Briggs Land, another layered crime saga with an intriguing family led by a strong woman.
The art by Jonas Scharf was perfect for the story and was reminiscent for me of Gabriel Rodriguez who illustrates the Locke and Key series, which is high praise indeed from me. He establishes the Winters family in a distinct manner, showing a welcome diversity within the family, in addition to when he draws other characters and realistic crowd scenes. The colorist Alex Guimarães really sets the tone with the coloring with an earthen palette for everyday life, and vibrant pinks and purples to signify the hallucinogenic effect.
As much as I loved the story, I have a few criticisms. The big one: how is the drug controlled by the user? How do they tap into the specific memory of the deceased, as they would have a lifetime of memories to choose from? How do memories from the past physically manifest in those who are taking the drug? Will this be explained, or do we just have to have a suspension of disbelief and go with the flow? Also, while I love that Grace is portrayed as a powerful and still sexy matriarch of the family, she looks too young to be a mother to her children, especially Brae. I, myself, am a mother to three teens and I still want to be thought of as a hottie, but Grace should be realistically aged just a tiny bit more.
I believe this new series has a lot of potential for growth and I absolutely will be reading future volumes, as I wish to find out what consequences are in store for the Winters family and those who choose to take the drug. Thank you to NetGalley for approving me to read this novel early, as I believe this series could really take off after its release in March. (Actual review is 4.5/5, but I rounded up)
This review can also be found on my blog: https://graphicnovelty2.com/2019/01/1...
January 11, 2022
[This review covers all three volumes of Bone Parish]
A new drug sweeps the streets of New Orleans; Ash, made from the bones of the deceased, which allows you to experience their life as if it was your own. The Winters family are riding high with their new discovery, but it isn't long before competition starts calling, and their downfall begins.
Bone Parish could, on the surface, be your standard crime family story. But the edge of the supernatural that creeps into it thanks to the twist on the premise keeps things interesting all the way through. It very rarely forgets that there's this strange plot device involved, and Bunn keeps the Ash and its effects woven into not just the framework of the book but the reveals and secrets that are kept between the cast.
There are more characters involved than I'd expected for a twelve issue series, and they all reach some kind of conclusion (be they satisfying or deadly). From the Winters family of five to the many rival gangs they recruit or battle for power, there are a lot of moving parts involved that I thought would get lost in the shuffle, but pretty much everyone gets something to do. It's clear that Brae and Grace are the main characters, but everyone else plays an active role in getting the plot to where it needs to be at the end.
Jonas Scharf's artwork does the job well; most of his scenes are well rendered and easy to follow, but it's when things get trippy that he really shines. The story beats set when someone is on Ash, or that depict the effects of the fake variant that causes people to mutate, stand out not just because they're equal parts psychadelic and disgusting, but because they're such a contrast to the relatively mundane main story.
With themes of family, the fragility of life and death, and what happens when you just can't let go of the past, Bone Parish grabbed me from the word 'go' and didn't let me off until I'd finished the final issue. It could have turned out a little basic, but Bunn's plot and Scharf's art elevate your typical crime drama into something far darker, and far more meaningful, than you'd ever expect it to be.
A new drug sweeps the streets of New Orleans; Ash, made from the bones of the deceased, which allows you to experience their life as if it was your own. The Winters family are riding high with their new discovery, but it isn't long before competition starts calling, and their downfall begins.
Bone Parish could, on the surface, be your standard crime family story. But the edge of the supernatural that creeps into it thanks to the twist on the premise keeps things interesting all the way through. It very rarely forgets that there's this strange plot device involved, and Bunn keeps the Ash and its effects woven into not just the framework of the book but the reveals and secrets that are kept between the cast.
There are more characters involved than I'd expected for a twelve issue series, and they all reach some kind of conclusion (be they satisfying or deadly). From the Winters family of five to the many rival gangs they recruit or battle for power, there are a lot of moving parts involved that I thought would get lost in the shuffle, but pretty much everyone gets something to do. It's clear that Brae and Grace are the main characters, but everyone else plays an active role in getting the plot to where it needs to be at the end.
Jonas Scharf's artwork does the job well; most of his scenes are well rendered and easy to follow, but it's when things get trippy that he really shines. The story beats set when someone is on Ash, or that depict the effects of the fake variant that causes people to mutate, stand out not just because they're equal parts psychadelic and disgusting, but because they're such a contrast to the relatively mundane main story.
With themes of family, the fragility of life and death, and what happens when you just can't let go of the past, Bone Parish grabbed me from the word 'go' and didn't let me off until I'd finished the final issue. It could have turned out a little basic, but Bunn's plot and Scharf's art elevate your typical crime drama into something far darker, and far more meaningful, than you'd ever expect it to be.
December 19, 2018
I‘m impressed. As a long-time graphic-novels’ fan I look for fresh and exciting reads in the genre, but I rarely find something worthwhile. Cullen Bunn’s Bone Parish engaged me from the start and never let go. The story blends surreal horror, narcotic visions, stunning art and solid writing.
Ash, a hallucinogenic made from the remains of the dead, allows to experience not only visions but also gain powers of the deceased used to prepare a batch (like combat skills, knowledge, insights). Winters family produces and distributes Ash on the street. Their business develops and bigger players want it for themselves.
Winters don’t want to sell their business, but they struggle to manage it properly. Family’s head, Grace, abuses Ash as it allows her to spent time with visions of her deceased husband. Her son Brae shares trade secrets with wrong people. Maintaining control of the operation has a high cost.
Ash allows to experience life events of the dead, show thoughts of the living, and gain skills of the deceased. It transcends life and death, but it seems Winters still don’t understand the potential of what they’re selling.
Bone Parish is a brilliant supernatural crime thriller that displays a lot of spooky creativity. It combines a gritty crime drama (conflict between police and drug dealers) and gothic horror. Jonas Scharf‘s art captures gothic aesthetics and formidably blends it with modern urban setting. Every single page is a work of art.
If you’re into horror graphic novels, read this one and thank me later.
ARC through NetGalley
Ash, a hallucinogenic made from the remains of the dead, allows to experience not only visions but also gain powers of the deceased used to prepare a batch (like combat skills, knowledge, insights). Winters family produces and distributes Ash on the street. Their business develops and bigger players want it for themselves.
Winters don’t want to sell their business, but they struggle to manage it properly. Family’s head, Grace, abuses Ash as it allows her to spent time with visions of her deceased husband. Her son Brae shares trade secrets with wrong people. Maintaining control of the operation has a high cost.
Ash allows to experience life events of the dead, show thoughts of the living, and gain skills of the deceased. It transcends life and death, but it seems Winters still don’t understand the potential of what they’re selling.
Bone Parish is a brilliant supernatural crime thriller that displays a lot of spooky creativity. It combines a gritty crime drama (conflict between police and drug dealers) and gothic horror. Jonas Scharf‘s art captures gothic aesthetics and formidably blends it with modern urban setting. Every single page is a work of art.
If you’re into horror graphic novels, read this one and thank me later.
ARC through NetGalley
January 5, 2019
Looks like Bunn has another winner here. The Winter family of New Orleans controls and runs the "ash" trade--a drug made from the remains of the dead. Users who take it can experience bits and pieces of the life of the dead person, but there's only a finite amount to be made from each corpse. Use it up and there's no more. The drug has become very popular, so much so that a couple of other criminal organizations are thinking about muscling in on the family's operations. This was a great mix of crime and horror, with a number of different characters just waiting to be further fleshed-out, particularly older son Brae and daughter Brigitte, the brains behind the chemistry. Nice artwork throughout by Jonas Scharf. Looking forward to more of this.
April 1, 2019
A family strives in the underground business with the sales of a new drug that allows a person to live the memories of the dead.
Cullen Bunn delivers an atmospheric story that introduces the key actors interested in this drug and the underlying effects of its consumption through a rough and dark artwork. It still, however, struggles to make its characters relevant and relatable as it focuses on setting up the world.
By blending supernatural elements with horror, Bone Parish (Vol. 1) promises a hauntingly immersive story that explores the afterlife, necromancy and noir crime in a terrifyingly addictive fashion.
Thank you to NetGalley and BOOM! Studios for this copy for review!
Yours truly,
Lashaan | Blogger and Book Reviewer
Official blog: https://bookidote.com/
Cullen Bunn delivers an atmospheric story that introduces the key actors interested in this drug and the underlying effects of its consumption through a rough and dark artwork. It still, however, struggles to make its characters relevant and relatable as it focuses on setting up the world.
By blending supernatural elements with horror, Bone Parish (Vol. 1) promises a hauntingly immersive story that explores the afterlife, necromancy and noir crime in a terrifyingly addictive fashion.
Thank you to NetGalley and BOOM! Studios for this copy for review!
Yours truly,
Lashaan | Blogger and Book Reviewer
Official blog: https://bookidote.com/
October 26, 2019
Interesting story with dark themes and well made characters.
I enjoyed the set up here. It has a family who's in some weird ass business of creating a drug that makes you see the dead. However, someone wants to buy them out. Of course that won't go well and they strike them, killing someone in the family in the process. This causes the family to take it into their own hands.
The art is solid with distinct character designs though the action is lacking and looks a bit stiff. I enjoyed the pacing and story as it's something pretty original though none of the characters really hooked me in. The ending is the best part however, and made me want to read the next volume. A 3 out of 5.
I enjoyed the set up here. It has a family who's in some weird ass business of creating a drug that makes you see the dead. However, someone wants to buy them out. Of course that won't go well and they strike them, killing someone in the family in the process. This causes the family to take it into their own hands.
The art is solid with distinct character designs though the action is lacking and looks a bit stiff. I enjoyed the pacing and story as it's something pretty original though none of the characters really hooked me in. The ending is the best part however, and made me want to read the next volume. A 3 out of 5.
October 3, 2019
Part Horror, part crime, all entertainment.
March 17, 2022
An interesting concept with a worthwhile execution. Good art, but some of the faces seemed too similar to make for fully comfortable reading without any confusion.
The plot didn’t progress much, although that may have been because the focus was much more on character dynamics and relationship developments which was well done. All in all, a solid foundation for the first vol in a new series.
The plot didn’t progress much, although that may have been because the focus was much more on character dynamics and relationship developments which was well done. All in all, a solid foundation for the first vol in a new series.
July 30, 2019
É bem pop, como aponta a arte. Fácil de acompanhar, gostei bastante da primeira parte. Mas aí vai ficando sem graça... nada evolui. O problema é que a proposta é tão boa - máfias e cartéis disputando o mercado de uma nova droga feita a partir das cinzas dos mortos - que eu fiquei com a expectativa lá no alto. Só que o roteiro é bem raso e a droga cada vez faz uma coisa diferente com as pessoas, faltou definir isso direito. Faltou um pouco mais de ousadia aqui e ali.
December 18, 2018
3,5/5. Good one. The illustrations are very classic and not really original, but a good dark story of drugs and supernatural stuff. Nothing extraordinary or mind blowing but a decent, fun, entertaining comic!
December 28, 2018
The concept of the Bone Parish is amazing. I am completely hooked! It's dark and creepy and I really want to get my hands on the second volume.
Thank you NetGalley for providing me with a copy.
Thank you NetGalley for providing me with a copy.
March 27, 2019
Thank you to netgalley and the publisher for providing me with a copy of this story in exchange for my open and honest review.
I loved this story. Mafia meets magic. The story begins with a man in the street under the influence of a necromantic drug that allows you to see or live the life of the dead body the drug is made out of. The drugs are created with different purposes, so the family needs different bodies with a different background to make them. The story is dark and gloomy, albeit a typical story arc. Family with a heart of gold has a tragedy, strikes revenge, sniffs the charred remains of their enemies as they are driven before them, and tacos. Just kidding, no tacos.
This is a winner of a book, good story, great art, interesting and inventive take on mafia families. Check it out.
I loved this story. Mafia meets magic. The story begins with a man in the street under the influence of a necromantic drug that allows you to see or live the life of the dead body the drug is made out of. The drugs are created with different purposes, so the family needs different bodies with a different background to make them. The story is dark and gloomy, albeit a typical story arc. Family with a heart of gold has a tragedy, strikes revenge, sniffs the charred remains of their enemies as they are driven before them, and tacos. Just kidding, no tacos.
This is a winner of a book, good story, great art, interesting and inventive take on mafia families. Check it out.
October 26, 2022
Crime drama mixed with horror. We've got a small crime family, The Winters, in New Orleans who is making a drug from the bones of the dead that allows users to experience a part of the person's life. The drug takes off, so bigger drug dealers want to take over the trade. But the Winters aren't going easy.
Interesting mix of genres and a decent read..
Interesting mix of genres and a decent read..
March 12, 2022
SERIES REVIEW
I have to retract my recommendation and enthusiasm, as this marvelous promise became a trash fire. Others still loved it, so you may also be one of the lucky ones that are tolerant of a scorched-earth-no-questions-answered kind of ending. I however, was devastated.
Volume 1 ★★★★☆ https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Volume 2 ★★★★☆ https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Volume 3 ★☆☆☆☆ https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
***
Organized crime are not my fave genre, but this? This was like a gritty version of iZombie and I was there for it! The art is also gritty, but fantastic. I loved the setting, New Orleans it seems like, I love the family, and can't wait to find out more about this crazy pants family business they've cooked up. I'm so glad I gave this a shot!
***
GR Personal Rating System:
★★★★★ 5 Stars ~ LOVED
★★★★☆ 4 Stars ~ ENJOYED
★★★☆☆ 3 Stars ~ LIKED
★★☆☆☆ 2 Stars ~ MEH
★☆☆☆☆ 1 Star ~ NOPE
I have to retract my recommendation and enthusiasm, as this marvelous promise became a trash fire. Others still loved it, so you may also be one of the lucky ones that are tolerant of a scorched-earth-no-questions-answered kind of ending. I however, was devastated.
Volume 1 ★★★★☆ https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Volume 2 ★★★★☆ https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Volume 3 ★☆☆☆☆ https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
***
Organized crime are not my fave genre, but this? This was like a gritty version of iZombie and I was there for it! The art is also gritty, but fantastic. I loved the setting, New Orleans it seems like, I love the family, and can't wait to find out more about this crazy pants family business they've cooked up. I'm so glad I gave this a shot!
***
GR Personal Rating System:
★★★★★ 5 Stars ~ LOVED
★★★★☆ 4 Stars ~ ENJOYED
★★★☆☆ 3 Stars ~ LIKED
★★☆☆☆ 2 Stars ~ MEH
★☆☆☆☆ 1 Star ~ NOPE
December 26, 2021
Very gritty and very coherent. Love it.
March 8, 2019
There is a new drug running through the streets of New Orleans. It's made from bones of the dead and it has some weird effects on you. Sometimes you'll gain the skills of the dead person or you'll see them and talk to them. Not really sure how it works because every trip was bit different.
Anyways, the Winters family is running the business as they are the only ones who know how to make it. And since the drug is a huge hit, other gangs like New York outfit or a Mexican cartel are trying to overtake their operation.
I am wondering why is this called a horror cause apart of a couple of pages there's nothing really scary or creepy. The first four issues are mostly introducing the concept of the drug, members of the Winters family and their struggles so it's really hard to say if this is going to be a good series or not.
But there are some cool ideas so I'll be back for the second volume to see in which direction this will go. Right now I am going to go with an average rating.
Jonas Scharf's art fits the story well and Alex Guimaraes's colors are perfect, especially in the "drug trip" parts.
Thank you NetGalley and BOOM! Studios for giving me a review copy of this book. #NetGalley #BoneParish
Anyways, the Winters family is running the business as they are the only ones who know how to make it. And since the drug is a huge hit, other gangs like New York outfit or a Mexican cartel are trying to overtake their operation.
I am wondering why is this called a horror cause apart of a couple of pages there's nothing really scary or creepy. The first four issues are mostly introducing the concept of the drug, members of the Winters family and their struggles so it's really hard to say if this is going to be a good series or not.
But there are some cool ideas so I'll be back for the second volume to see in which direction this will go. Right now I am going to go with an average rating.
Jonas Scharf's art fits the story well and Alex Guimaraes's colors are perfect, especially in the "drug trip" parts.
Thank you NetGalley and BOOM! Studios for giving me a review copy of this book. #NetGalley #BoneParish
January 31, 2019
Thank you to Netgalley for providing me with an ARC copy.
I gave this a 3.5/5
I really enjoyed the story and the art work. This was about a family drug operation and out of town people wanting to buy or take that operation. I like how the plot moved and it was fast but I liked it. I haven’t read something like this. I recommend you to pick this up. I can’t wait for the next volume.
I gave this a 3.5/5
I really enjoyed the story and the art work. This was about a family drug operation and out of town people wanting to buy or take that operation. I like how the plot moved and it was fast but I liked it. I haven’t read something like this. I recommend you to pick this up. I can’t wait for the next volume.
May 4, 2020
Such an enjoyable read
February 21, 2019
I'm not going to lie, I picked this up because there was a lot of contention about this graphic novel going around Twitter. Any time that a story has such a polarizing effect on its readers, I need to read it. Plus, I can't deny that the premise of this dark little story intrigued me. It's hard not to be taken in by the idea of a highly potent drug made from the remains of the dead, especially if that designer drug starts to become a currency on its own. I just knew this was going to be a graphic novel I would enjoy, and I was right.
First off, kudos where kudos are due, the artwork in this is absolutely stunning. Dark, gritty, and full of atmosphere, it perfectly matches with the story that unfolds on these pages. As the Winter family fell deeper into the pit that this drug trade was digging for them, I felt like the art kept pace perfectly. Fair warning friends, there are some fairly graphic panels in this book. If you're not a fan of death and dismemberment, you might want to take a pass.
In terms of story, I thought Cullen Bunn did an admirable job of introducing us to this new designer drug and its creators. The storyline was a little jumbled at points, but I still felt like I had a pretty firm hold on the picture at large. I'm kind of an addict for stories like these, where the best laid plans go awry and unforseen consequences abound. Seeing what people do when they're down on the mat is fascinating, and Cullen Bunn definitely doesn't skimp in that department. People are hurt in this book, and some of them even deserve it.
Long story short, I liked this! I'm ready for more.
First off, kudos where kudos are due, the artwork in this is absolutely stunning. Dark, gritty, and full of atmosphere, it perfectly matches with the story that unfolds on these pages. As the Winter family fell deeper into the pit that this drug trade was digging for them, I felt like the art kept pace perfectly. Fair warning friends, there are some fairly graphic panels in this book. If you're not a fan of death and dismemberment, you might want to take a pass.
In terms of story, I thought Cullen Bunn did an admirable job of introducing us to this new designer drug and its creators. The storyline was a little jumbled at points, but I still felt like I had a pretty firm hold on the picture at large. I'm kind of an addict for stories like these, where the best laid plans go awry and unforseen consequences abound. Seeing what people do when they're down on the mat is fascinating, and Cullen Bunn definitely doesn't skimp in that department. People are hurt in this book, and some of them even deserve it.
Long story short, I liked this! I'm ready for more.
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