Review by Frank Plowright

Al Ewing covers a lot of ground over this collection of his Loki series originally published from 2013, but the central issue is whether his existence is pre-determined. Loki’s circumvented the ancient prophecies to begin with by being reincarnated as a teenager without memories of his previous life. When this story picks up those memories have been restored, but the pressure is not to follow the same path ensuring those prophecies again come to pass.

Because of what’s followed in the decade since, some of the suspense has been diminished. When originally published, hanging over much of the early content was the question of whether or not Loki was being sincere when proclaiming he wants to reform. There’s certainly sincerity about his undertaking tasks on his mother’s behalf, each of which will purge an old crime when completed. The purpose may be heavy, but the tone is light, with Ewing ensuring Loki is a likeable personality, an example of which is why a person versed in magic doesn’t just take the easy option: it’s too easy.

For contrast, the series may focus on one Loki, but there’s another one hanging about, and they have greater prominence as matters continue. The remainder of the supporting cast is also an interesting bunch, including Asgard’s first hero, a woman able to tell when someone’s lying, and Lorelei, no mean trickster herself.

Almost the entire series is drawn by Lee Garbett, a very capable artist who somehow flies under the radar. His compositions are refined, his people accurate, and he strikes the correct emotional tone, not overselling the funny moments. As the tone becomes darker, Garbett’s art matches the mood, and he delivers grandeur when needed, be that Asgard, or the Doctor Doom’s more spartan surroundings.

While most of the series is smart and enjoyable there’s a lull in the middle as Loki is central to the Axis crossover, and a brief period toward the end when it seems Ewing has lost sight of what’s important. This is when investigating different facets of who Loki is, but he pulls things back on track for an inspiring finale. It neatly ties up everything the series has dealt with, and delivers the brief of Loki with greater appeal and commercial viability.

People who love this series really love it, but if you’re not prepared to dive right in you might want to try the slimmer paperbacks first. Trust Me leads into I Cannot Tell A Lie, with Last Days tying everything up.