Titan comics are releasing a collection of the first four volumes in the Samurai comic series written by Jean-François Di Giorgio. Originally published in French, Titan comics are now releasing this English version, which is likely to find its place within the market.

Focused on the character of Takeo, we follow him on his journey through Imperial Japan, as he finds the ‘sacred blood’ that will restore the thirteenth prophet to power. Whilst trying to protect the ‘sacred blood’, Takeo faces flashbacks to his haunted past. Joining him on this journey is Shiro, his trusty right hand man whose main purpose is to give Takeo near death experiences through his clumsiness. Shiro allows for some comic relief throughout the tale, allowing for a humorous tale of mystery and political battles.

Finding a collected graphic novel, with an original story, character development and superb artwork is rare. However, Samurai is one of those graphic novels that delivers this. The plot is the central element of the story, with each volume having a clear plot which captivates the reader. The character development of Takeo and Shiro is one of the best in comics. The antagonist in the story is less developed, but this allows for an air of mystery, which actually enhances the novel. The artwork is superb, and Titan Comics have done a magnificent job of producing a premium quality hardback graphic novel. A fold out sheet in the novel allows for a gripping view of the war, and truly shows how epic the story is.

Samurai is a truly great story, with captivating art that any reader will be hooked on within seconds. One of the best-collected graphic novels Titan Comics have produced this year. A sure-fire hit.

SAMURAI- THE HEART OF THE PROPHET: COLLECTED EDITION VOL. 1-4 / WRITER: JEAN-FRANÇOIS DI GIORGIO / ARTIST: FRÉDÉRIC GENÉT / PUBLISHER: TITAN / RELEASE DATE: OUT NOW