Conrad’s NEPTUNE Exposes Capitalist…

Written by August Tales

Prepare yourselves, graphic novel enthusiasts, Comixology Originals is about to make your week. They’re debuting an unsettling new graphic novel, Neptune, intriguingly penned by Michael Conrad.

New Collaboration: Conrad and Ooten

What’s truly special here isn’t just the twisted tale of revenge and redemption, which Conrad himself labels as ‘borderline horror’. No, that would be too normal. The collaboration with debut graphic artist Nathan Ooten, letterer Kyle Arends, and editor Zane Barrow is what packs the real punch.

“And then, there’s Nathan Ooten,” Conrad gushed about his collaborator, “Each page is both a gorgeous display of his multimedia approach and a profane depiction of extremely unsavoury subject matter.” Fair to say, Ooten aced his first assignment.

Corey’s Story: A Prison Tale

The plot of Neptune follows Corey Harrison, a character with a past as shadowy as a bat cave. Just released after 17-long years in prison for a violent crime, he’s investigating his brother’s sketchy death. Corey’s flashbacks, which offer a first peek into his brotherly bond with the deceased, add an eerie layer to the story.

A Heavy, Horrific Tale: No Escaping the Dark

Creating this novel, however, wasn’t a smooth ride. “Addressing complex elements like murder, incarceration, human trafficking, and exploitation is like observing a car crash – a sight you’d rather not see, yet can’t look away from,” Conrad dejectedly admits, shedding light on the challenges behind Neptune. Although he’s reluctant to label it a ‘horror story’, he acknowledges the terrifying narrative that unfolds.

Comixology’s Excitement: Stirring the Pot

Comixology, ecstatic to be associated with Conrad’s blossoming career, is set to digitally release Neptune on September 3. “We’re thrilled to be premiering Conrad’s graphic novels – Tremor Dose, Double Walker, and now Neptune,” affirmed Jeff DiBartolomeo, Comixology’s GM and CTO. He adds, “Neptune is a heavy story that needs a unique artistic touch.” On being introduced to Nathan Ooten’s artistry, he was nothing short of impressed.

Catch Your Copy: When and Where

Can’t wait to grab your copy? The digital version will be up for grabs on Comixology’s platform on September 3. For those old-school fans who prefer the feel of pages, Dark Horse Books will roll out Neptune’s print edition on March 18, 2025 (Mark your calendars!). It’s coming to all locales where books are sold, and will grace local comic shops by March 19, 2025.

The Verdict: Expecting the Unexpected

Unsettling and entirely original, Neptune will surely leave an indelible mark on its readers. So tighten your belts and put on your reading glasses. Neptune is coming, and it promises to be as mesmerizing as it is disturbing.