My Rating
“The Dreamer”
Contessa Octavia sat enjoying the morning view from her castle window. The beauty of the land was like no other in that part of the country. Has Mother Nature shown favor to the woman with so many gifts? That question would have to wait. A gunshot suddenly rang out from the courtyard below, leaving an Ibex dead in the grass. An arrogant poacher has just invaded Octavia’s peaceful morning.
“The Gemini Ring”
Note: Originally presented in the Octavia Novella “The Gemini Ring”
The bat-like thing veered into the jet engine as Peters glanced out the cabin window. The airliner shuttered as bits of the creature were obliterated as they passed through the jet turbine. Exactly what the hell was that?
Peters turned his attention to the other passengers. Did no one else see that? Egypt Air flight began to bank towards the airport in El Prat. Once on the ground in Barcelona, the sole witness to the incident would begin his own investigation. Peters needed a drink and a good cigar.
“The Flame Profane”
Francesca was the star dancer of an underground nightclub. A muse to some, a slave in other terms. Her life was whips, chains, and cages. Will there be an end to this cycle of pain and abuse? Would a prince ever come to rescue her?
“The Ancient Darkness”
A cold chill engulfed the abandoned church as the woman lit the last candle. The ritual was complete. What mysteries would be revealed to a student of the Black arts?
“A Crimson Past”
Victor and Charles had spent the past two days scouring the countryside searching for castles. Their photo shoot must be perfect if their magazine was to recoup all expenses of the trip. Oddly, Charles seemed preoccupied with other aspects of the locations. Historical aspects of some nature. But he would not go into details.
The next day, Victor had bargained their passports for information and a key to the oldest fortification in the area. What was the writer playing at? It would all come to light as the models, Honey and Kitten, squealed in amazement at the high parapet towers. This was the coolest spot ever!
Review
From the past, a forgotten horror icon returns. Mike Hoffman brings this sinister brand of Italian horror storytelling to the 21st century. This is Octavia Magazine!
As a fan of silver age horror comics, Octavia is a move in the right direction. No woke hand-holding. No censorship. This is true raw horror. Kids, get your parents’ permission before reading this gem.
Mike Hoffman brings the goods. The art, the writing, and the production are top-notch. I give issue one an iron maiden sized three out of five stars. I can’t wait until the next issue!
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