Review by Michael Smith

Writer: Rick Loverd

Artist: Jeremy Haun

Colourist: Dave McCraig

Letterer: Troy Peteri

Published by Top Cow

There are a lot of books on the market today that use violence in an over-the-top manner that really does nothing other than detract from the story. In many cases there is no story but rather just a lot of endless and mindless scenes of blood and drama. Berserker is nothing like those books. Please don’t mistake my comment, this book has some rage and anger that come across each page and in most cases each panel. The difference is that Berserker seems to have a story and even a vision of the tale that is unfolding before your eyes.

As the story unfolds we start to see various people that are dealing with problems that have consumed them and pushed them to the brink. In those moments of hopelessness it appears that each of the characters unleashes a true sense of rage, hatred and vengeance that cannot be controlled. I would love to say more but then I would give away too much. This is one of those books that offer a few brief moments of true shock that are used to further advance the story. It also helps to create a more dramatic tale as we see how ordinary people and the ones they love have to overcome new challenges and trials.

I am not usually a fan of the ultra-violent books. I don’t crave the images of limbs being ripped from bodies and the all power shock value of a book. With that said this book was good. I actually think as the story unfolds in future issues this book has a chance to be really, really good!

If you are a fan of Garth Ennis’s Crossed or Warren Ellis’s Black Summer and No Hero type of books then this will be a great read. If you are somebody just looking to try something new and get outside of your comfort zone I would say give Berserker a chance, just be prepared to have your arms ripped off and beaten over the head with them.

Rating: 7 out of 10 (Above Average)