Publisher: Image Comics
Writer: William Harms
Artist: Edward Pun
Release Date: 16th April 2014

PLOT SUMMARY:
Mike Stone wants nothing more than to marry the woman of his dreams, Denise. However, what Denise doesn’t know is that Mike is one of the world’s top assassins and was once engaged to a fellow assassin named Chloe. Mike abandoned Chloe on their wedding day and she vowed revenge. This is her revenge.

The reason I am so complimentary about this 4-part story arc is the fact that Shotgun Wedding serves as such an excellent example of strong characterisation within such a short period of time (just three issues and counting). Each character (the good ones) are true to life, flawed but essentially likeable. The “baddies” are truly awful human beings… and we know why. The flashback scenes in this issue which depict the growth of the love between main characters Mike and Denise creates a strong bond between the characters and the reader; we are not expected to simply understand that these two people are deeply in love, it is there for us to see, growing on the page in black and white (more on that later!). This emotional investment makes the action scenes in this issue so much more difficult to handle, especially when what is meant to be the happiest day of their lives (there’s that emotional investment again!) becomes a disaster.

On top of the fuzzy romance, we also have a great Bromance to follow. Mike and his handler Clint are more like brothers than friends, sticking beside each other to the end of this shambolic affair, no matter the outcome.

There is nothing too original about the concept of this book; it is a pretty standard affair in terms of plot development… and when read quickly Shotgun Wedding is potentially the type of book that will breed indifference. However, it is when read with a measured manner, taking the time to get to grips with each character’s unique humanity that you are truly rewarded for your purchase.

My only gripe with this book is the aforementioned black and white colour choice. As I mentioned last week, I personally can see no real stylistic advantage from the book utilising this method and I find myself wondering why it was chosen.  Aside from that, this is a truly terrific series with a sizeable emotional hook.

Rating: 5/5.

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The writer of this piece was: Blair Stevenson
You can also find Blair on Twitter.