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“The Sandman Universe: Nightmare Country: The Glass House” – Book Four
Writer: James Tynion IV
Artist: Lisandro Estherren
Color Artist: Patricio Delpeche
Letterer: Simon Bowland
Reviewed by Steve J. Ray
Summary
After a brief (but brilliant) interlude last month with Thessaly, we return to The Sandman Universe: Nightmare Country: The Glass House #4, exactly where we left the previous issue.
While the Corinthian enters the King of Pain nightclub (the demon Azazel’s portal from Earth to Hell) Madison and Max are confronted by the witch Thessaly. We witness murder, and mayhem, and get a visit from a tall librarian plus a final page cameo that left me jumping for joy!
Positives
This issue has it all. There’s enough intrigue, subterfuge, and plotting that we’re making wild guesses at to what’s going on, while James Tynion slowly drops breadcrumbs, red herrings, and guest appearances to leave readers clamoring for more.
No, we still don’t know how or why Desire is involved, whether the Corinthian’s turning back to the dark side, nor what the Angel and the Hollywood producer are planning, but boy are we along for the ride!
The addition of Thessaly as a main character opens up a world of storytelling possibilities that this exceptional creative team is grasping with both hands and running with. The art by Lisandro Estherren and Patricio Delpeche continues to inspire and delight, particularly when we get to see the true power of the forces of darkness at play on page five of the book, as one of Max’s work colleagues is on the receiving end of a particularly sharp spell… The use of color on this page is truly phenomenal, contrasting the prelude and aftermath of the event beautifully.
As always, Simon Bowland’s use of design and innovative text fonts and balloons, for the supernatural characters of the book, are wonderful.
Negatives
I’m only calling this a negative because I’m selfish. Guys! You cannot close the issue with a cameo of that significance! I mean, seriously… this is (exquisite) torture!
Verdict
The Sandman Universe: Nightmare Country: The Glass House #4 had me gripped from start to finish, and this entire series has consistently been great to read, and amazing to look at.
I honestly believe that issue #5 will be a Dream come true for some… myself included.
Images Courtesy of DC Entertainment
