Review by Ian Keogh

Let’s trumpet the good news up front. After the disappointingly predictable parade through The Magic Order Book Two, Mark Millar has put on his concept cap and come up with something refreshingly intoxicating. The difference is apparent from a busy opening chapter in which several plots are set in motion, then in a second chapter considering dynastic destiny through looking back at the Moonstone family’s past. There’s even a spooky prophecy, some parts of which have already come true. It hangs a really effective sense of foreboding over what follows.

Taking charge of ensuring the magic appears spectacular on the page is Gigi Cavenago, who isn’t an artist well known to English language readers, but his track record in Italy is respectable. That’s apparent from looking at any page. People are relatively loosely constructed, but placed in fully detailed backgrounds, be that a magical arena or the streets of Philadelphia. However that’s the bread and butter expectation, and Cavenago also excels with the supernatural, and when it comes to some surprise discursions. The sample page displays how the audacious colouring of Valentina Napolitano fits with the art.

Because multiple plot strands are involved, this is a fragmented story, but including so many clever aspects. And because it’s fragmented there are several climaxes, which is very satisfying. It seems at first as if Millar’s let one plot ride into the sunset, but it returns in a surprising way in the closing chapter, setting up Book Four. You’ll want to be there for that.

Resurrection’s always been a good magic trick, and Millar’s managed it here.