What do you think?
Rate this book
Twisted Dark #1
Twisted Dark, Volume 1
The first volume in Neil Gibson's acclaimed series of twisted tales. This 200 page book contains 12 individual and unique stories which are all related. The stories vary from 10 year old girls to Colombian drug lords and everything in between. It is left to the reader to find the connections between the stories - some connections are immediately clear whilst other connection only become clear in later volumes. This series is designed for re-reading. The author describes the genre as psychological thriller, but the books contains horror, dark (at times demented) stories incorporating every human emotion, illegal activity, and brutal reality. Using various illustrators allows each story and character to develop their own form. Twisted Dark has been embraced by the comic book world receiving critical acclaim and a cult following. If you haven’t read one yet, you don’t know what you’re missing.
199 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2010
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 130 reviews
December 23, 2018
Full disclosure: I won a free Kindle copy of this book in a Goodreads giveaway.
Not bad. I was initially skeptical--the first few stories are kind of meh--but it gets better. Both stories and art are a bit on the crude side, but they get the job done. Is this a great horror comic? No, but it is a decent one.
I was beginning to get a bit annoyed that every story seems to end on the same image, but then I read the title of the book again, and realized, “Oh …” I can be a bit slow on the uptake sometimes …
The stories, as I said, are a touch on the basic side. There's an attempt to go for twist endings, but they usually aren't twisty enough, and some of them can be seen coming from miles away. Several of the stories--”A Lighter Note”, “Windopayne”, “The Pushman”--are essentially the same story, just with the details changed.
Some of the stories link to each other, and apparently this will continue in future volumes, with characters recurring from story to story. It's not the first time I’ve seen this gimmick used on an “anthology” title, and I suppose it won't be the last.
In the end, while I’m mildly intrigued, I don't think I particularly care whether I read future volumes or not. I don't regret having read this, but I don't know that I’d recommend doing so either. Pretty average stuff, really.
Not bad. I was initially skeptical--the first few stories are kind of meh--but it gets better. Both stories and art are a bit on the crude side, but they get the job done. Is this a great horror comic? No, but it is a decent one.
I was beginning to get a bit annoyed that every story seems to end on the same image, but then I read the title of the book again, and realized, “Oh …” I can be a bit slow on the uptake sometimes …
The stories, as I said, are a touch on the basic side. There's an attempt to go for twist endings, but they usually aren't twisty enough, and some of them can be seen coming from miles away. Several of the stories--”A Lighter Note”, “Windopayne”, “The Pushman”--are essentially the same story, just with the details changed.
Some of the stories link to each other, and apparently this will continue in future volumes, with characters recurring from story to story. It's not the first time I’ve seen this gimmick used on an “anthology” title, and I suppose it won't be the last.
In the end, while I’m mildly intrigued, I don't think I particularly care whether I read future volumes or not. I don't regret having read this, but I don't know that I’d recommend doing so either. Pretty average stuff, really.
December 12, 2018
Twisted Dark is one of those comics that has you begging for more after the first story.
Twisted Dark is an accumulation of short horror stories all written by Neil Gibson. The publication lives up to its name with stories that reminisce of the Twilight Zone. The twist at the end of each story is always the perfect amount of creepiness to make the reader feel their skin crawl up their spine.
Gibson builds the stories in Twisted Dark like spider webs, which is perhaps the most interesting aspect. Each story is intertwined with another, which I, personally, enjoyed a lot. It was fun to seek out the connections within each story.
My favourite aspect of each story is the amount of research put into them. One of my favourite stories, “The Last Laugh”, was almost entirely fact, except for the last panel (which I won’t give away), and that in itself made me appreciate the comic all the more.
Twisted Dark is an accumulation of short horror stories all written by Neil Gibson. The publication lives up to its name with stories that reminisce of the Twilight Zone. The twist at the end of each story is always the perfect amount of creepiness to make the reader feel their skin crawl up their spine.
Gibson builds the stories in Twisted Dark like spider webs, which is perhaps the most interesting aspect. Each story is intertwined with another, which I, personally, enjoyed a lot. It was fun to seek out the connections within each story.
My favourite aspect of each story is the amount of research put into them. One of my favourite stories, “The Last Laugh”, was almost entirely fact, except for the last panel (which I won’t give away), and that in itself made me appreciate the comic all the more.
November 18, 2019
I started this not expecting to devour the pages!! Each one of the stories is surprisingly compelling and the twists and turns are both disturbing and unexpected. Can’t wait to read the next volume!!
August 5, 2015
2.5 stars
Think about stories you read that make you go, "How can so&so do such a thing?!' Lots of that in here.
Art is mostly bland. Not bad just not my type. Too much looks the same. Which is sad since there were different artists.
Overlapping characters in various stories was quite interesting. The stories live up the the title quite well. The twisted side of humanity peaks through at is in these tales. Some are just a few pages others about 40 pages and everything in between. Several tales per volume.
HATED the shaded and font used. Could not read more than 5 minutes at a time before my head started to hurt. Lots of blurriness and had to get close and squint the entire time or had to zoom in and out constantly (still blurry but less squinting). Arc copy only compatible with Adobe Digital Editions so print may be better.
I hope to one day get a hold of print copies of these to revise my opinion but until I do.....
Think about stories you read that make you go, "How can so&so do such a thing?!' Lots of that in here.
Art is mostly bland. Not bad just not my type. Too much looks the same. Which is sad since there were different artists.
Overlapping characters in various stories was quite interesting. The stories live up the the title quite well. The twisted side of humanity peaks through at is in these tales. Some are just a few pages others about 40 pages and everything in between. Several tales per volume.
HATED the shaded and font used. Could not read more than 5 minutes at a time before my head started to hurt. Lots of blurriness and had to get close and squint the entire time or had to zoom in and out constantly (still blurry but less squinting). Arc copy only compatible with Adobe Digital Editions so print may be better.
I hope to one day get a hold of print copies of these to revise my opinion but until I do.....
July 1, 2017
I've never read a graphic novel quite like this one - from the first story I was hooked, and read it in one sitting - the stories were so tragic but relatable because a few of them were about current things happening in the world today - these things could have happened to real people, which made them especially interesting yet sad.
I can't wait to read the rest of the series!
I can't wait to read the rest of the series!
May 28, 2015
These little short stories are intriguing and somewhat creepy, but their brevity limits the effect.
February 1, 2019
This graphic novel by far is the best psychological horror I’ve had the pleasure of reading. It’s chilling to the bone, featuring intelligent and realistically dark horror. If you are a fan of the netflix show, Black Mirror, Twilight Zone, or have a love for dark stories, you will love this one.
Twisted Dark is an anthology of stories set in a world identicail to our own, but the twist is, well it’s twisted, very twisted—it is twisted in such a way that churns the stomach, curdles the blood and will leave you waking up in the middle of the night—sweat cold and heart pounding— from a nightmare.
The most astounding thing about these stories is the taste it leaves in your mouth. The dark tone of the narrative is subtle, intellectual, and leaves you pondering the realistic nature of each twist at the end of the story. It's terrifying because horror of this nature could happen in the real world, and that's what makes it so frightening. It relies on human nature, from our need for solitude to our desire for perfection and attention.
The taste of these stories is not just a bitter one; it is also quite sweet, addiction sweet. Once you read through the first two pages, you are hooked in wanting to know how each story ends after. Also, when you figure out that they all connect, you will read them again just to figure out the connections. Gibson is a true master of the craft because he weaves each piece together in such a way that the reader is never disappointed in the twisted, dark endings. I highly recommend this to any horror fan or any one looking for a scare. I challenge all of you to read this without feeling a chill run down your spine. Go on, buy it for yourself and find out.
TAKE THE TWISTED DARK CHALLENGE AND GIVE IT A READ!
Twisted Dark is an anthology of stories set in a world identicail to our own, but the twist is, well it’s twisted, very twisted—it is twisted in such a way that churns the stomach, curdles the blood and will leave you waking up in the middle of the night—sweat cold and heart pounding— from a nightmare.
The most astounding thing about these stories is the taste it leaves in your mouth. The dark tone of the narrative is subtle, intellectual, and leaves you pondering the realistic nature of each twist at the end of the story. It's terrifying because horror of this nature could happen in the real world, and that's what makes it so frightening. It relies on human nature, from our need for solitude to our desire for perfection and attention.
The taste of these stories is not just a bitter one; it is also quite sweet, addiction sweet. Once you read through the first two pages, you are hooked in wanting to know how each story ends after. Also, when you figure out that they all connect, you will read them again just to figure out the connections. Gibson is a true master of the craft because he weaves each piece together in such a way that the reader is never disappointed in the twisted, dark endings. I highly recommend this to any horror fan or any one looking for a scare. I challenge all of you to read this without feeling a chill run down your spine. Go on, buy it for yourself and find out.
TAKE THE TWISTED DARK CHALLENGE AND GIVE IT A READ!
January 2, 2014
This is one of the best graphic novels I have ever read. I purchased this graphic novel at New York ComicCon this year where Neil signed it ("Have a Twisted Time") and I got to talk to him at length. He is a very cool guy.
This graphic novel is broken up into 12 short stories, some of which are stories already read in the graphic novel but are now taking place in a different time period.
I would love to review all 12 stories but instead I am going to give you a very brief synopsis of each of them to peak your interest. All of the characters in Neil's stories are strong and very twisted.
1. Suicicde - a story about someone talking on the computer to someone else saying that they think about suicide a lot. You do not see the character and the reveal is at the end of the story which was the kicker.
2. Routine - a story about a father that loves his son very much. They pretty much have the same routine every day and it is good. It is explained in detail. The ending will totally surprise you.
3. A Lighter Note - a story about a poor man who wanted more. He signed up for a job that was horrible, but he endured. He saw an opportunity for change and took it. Wait until you see how.
4. Windopayne - a story about someone who shot to fame with an interesting invention. When he is interviewed about it, after taking a long time to get an interview with him, you get to see how is invention is going to change mankind. And maybe not in a good way.
5. The Game a patient in a mental institution. Anything more will be a spoiler. But this character is very interesting and very smart.
6. Cocaina A man rises to heights in a powerful drug cartel, although he saw his father get killed by people in the business. As he rises in the ranks, he never tries the product. That is his rule for all the people that work for him. When he reaches the top guy and gains his trust, something happens that blows the whole thing up.
7. Blame someone gets what they deserve
8. Twisted Dark a very short story. This may be a drabble.
9. The Pushman a story about a man who wanted to be an architect but his grades were not good enough. So the job he has now provides him a sick satisfaction.
10. Heavenly Note "A Lighter Note" months later. But the main character has a big surprise at the end. Something unimaginable.
11. Munchausen's Little Proxy okay so the title gives some of the story away. But as you start reading it, you have no idea how far this woman will go to get some attention.
12. The Last Laugh interesting story. That is all.
I enjoyed all of these stories. Some left me with the chills and the others all had a twist at the end that I was not expecting. It made for a great read. I highly recommend it. Even if you are not into graphic novels, these short stories are good for people who like thrillers, horror, and mystery. The illustrations were very good too. I hope their is a Volume 2 soon.
Neil Gibson was the writer and creator of all of the stories.
The following people did the illustrations: (listed by story)
1. Atula Siriwardne
2. Caspar Wijngaard
3. Heru Prasetyo Djala
4. Jan Winjngaard
5. Ant Mercer
6. see 2 (also there was a layout artist: Olga-Mila Gots)
7. see 1
8. n/a
9. see 4
10. see 3
11. see 2
12. Dan West
This graphic novel is broken up into 12 short stories, some of which are stories already read in the graphic novel but are now taking place in a different time period.
I would love to review all 12 stories but instead I am going to give you a very brief synopsis of each of them to peak your interest. All of the characters in Neil's stories are strong and very twisted.
1. Suicicde - a story about someone talking on the computer to someone else saying that they think about suicide a lot. You do not see the character and the reveal is at the end of the story which was the kicker.
2. Routine - a story about a father that loves his son very much. They pretty much have the same routine every day and it is good. It is explained in detail. The ending will totally surprise you.
3. A Lighter Note - a story about a poor man who wanted more. He signed up for a job that was horrible, but he endured. He saw an opportunity for change and took it. Wait until you see how.
4. Windopayne - a story about someone who shot to fame with an interesting invention. When he is interviewed about it, after taking a long time to get an interview with him, you get to see how is invention is going to change mankind. And maybe not in a good way.
5. The Game a patient in a mental institution. Anything more will be a spoiler. But this character is very interesting and very smart.
6. Cocaina A man rises to heights in a powerful drug cartel, although he saw his father get killed by people in the business. As he rises in the ranks, he never tries the product. That is his rule for all the people that work for him. When he reaches the top guy and gains his trust, something happens that blows the whole thing up.
7. Blame someone gets what they deserve
8. Twisted Dark a very short story. This may be a drabble.
9. The Pushman a story about a man who wanted to be an architect but his grades were not good enough. So the job he has now provides him a sick satisfaction.
10. Heavenly Note "A Lighter Note" months later. But the main character has a big surprise at the end. Something unimaginable.
11. Munchausen's Little Proxy okay so the title gives some of the story away. But as you start reading it, you have no idea how far this woman will go to get some attention.
12. The Last Laugh interesting story. That is all.
I enjoyed all of these stories. Some left me with the chills and the others all had a twist at the end that I was not expecting. It made for a great read. I highly recommend it. Even if you are not into graphic novels, these short stories are good for people who like thrillers, horror, and mystery. The illustrations were very good too. I hope their is a Volume 2 soon.
Neil Gibson was the writer and creator of all of the stories.
The following people did the illustrations: (listed by story)
1. Atula Siriwardne
2. Caspar Wijngaard
3. Heru Prasetyo Djala
4. Jan Winjngaard
5. Ant Mercer
6. see 2 (also there was a layout artist: Olga-Mila Gots)
7. see 1
8. n/a
9. see 4
10. see 3
11. see 2
12. Dan West
December 12, 2018
Interesting, good for fans of dark or gritty graphic novels. Very much like Black Mirror, with short, mostly unconnected stories.
February 2, 2016
4 out of 5 stars
This was a very creepy graphic novel.
Each story had its own twist, and it was interesting to see how some of the stories connected throughout.
It was definitely a quick read.
The art styles varied - some were amazing whereas others weren't quite as good. There were a mixed bunch of themes too. Honestly, there are so many trigger warnings for this book. It deals with suicide, drugs, mental illness, arson, murder, rape, slavery, manipulation, child abuse, domestic abuse... There's a lot of dark stuff.
I received my copy from MyGeekBox.co.uk in their monthly subscription and I'm very tempted to invest in the other volumes available to see what Niel Gibson comes up with next.
This was a very creepy graphic novel.
Each story had its own twist, and it was interesting to see how some of the stories connected throughout.
It was definitely a quick read.
The art styles varied - some were amazing whereas others weren't quite as good. There were a mixed bunch of themes too. Honestly, there are so many trigger warnings for this book. It deals with suicide, drugs, mental illness, arson, murder, rape, slavery, manipulation, child abuse, domestic abuse... There's a lot of dark stuff.
I received my copy from MyGeekBox.co.uk in their monthly subscription and I'm very tempted to invest in the other volumes available to see what Niel Gibson comes up with next.
August 21, 2020
The fact that every short short ends with a 'dark twist' kind of takes something away from it. It was 12 stories with the exact same formula. The twists themselves felt pretty cheap and most were predictable because of this. One of the stories straight up gave away the ending in the title? The art style was good but the writing was quite lazy.
I picked this up after a social media video promised the the book was 'addictive' and 'if I read it I won't be able to resist getting the next one'. I'm afraid I have to disagree. I should have taken the bad acting in the video as an indication.
I picked this up after a social media video promised the the book was 'addictive' and 'if I read it I won't be able to resist getting the next one'. I'm afraid I have to disagree. I should have taken the bad acting in the video as an indication.
June 26, 2013
As a self published graphic novel this is up there with one of my favourites.
I have been a huge 'comic' fan for some years, but was introduced to this whilst at the LSCC in Feb 2013 and I could not put it down.
The art-work and the stories portray a very bleak look into the darker recesses of our minds/thoughts/and actions.
Each story is excellently written and illustrated, and with a dark/twisted undertone that can leave you feeling uncomfortable, but desperate to read more!
I have been a huge 'comic' fan for some years, but was introduced to this whilst at the LSCC in Feb 2013 and I could not put it down.
The art-work and the stories portray a very bleak look into the darker recesses of our minds/thoughts/and actions.
Each story is excellently written and illustrated, and with a dark/twisted undertone that can leave you feeling uncomfortable, but desperate to read more!
June 25, 2015
Rather boring and I liked the art at first but the general style became bland and I guess annoying as my ereader didn't like loading all that black. I just didn't find it that twisted or dark. I wrote a proper review on my blog.
November 17, 2021
I met Neil at comic con and read the first two chapters and was instantly hooked, I received the book today and read it all at once, the stories take unexpected twists and the artwork is amazing!
The links between some of the stories is amazing and personally I didn’t see it until it was directly referenced.
I love it and can’t wait to read the other volumes
The links between some of the stories is amazing and personally I didn’t see it until it was directly referenced.
I love it and can’t wait to read the other volumes
July 3, 2016
Picked this up at a convention here in Ireland and I couldn't put it down afterwards. I love short comic stories and these were some of the creepiest I've ever read. Twisted and bleak, this is a must read.
February 27, 2018
I received this graphic novel as a Goodreads giveaway winner. This was a dark graphic novel, but I expected more depth to the content than what appeared in volume one. Just ok for me.
March 15, 2020
Twisted Dark is a collection of macabre short stories that, at the moment, seem to have little to no connection to each other (but the author says in later volumes they become more connected). The stories differ in length, and in the type of darkness they tell. This can be either mental trauma and mental illness, murderous intent, greed and criminality, sociopath and psychopath, substance and domestic abuse. The acts that people in this series commit, they are always made not to look over the top evil, even some going out of their way to seem reasonable, sometimes until you are grabbed in the last few panels.
Some stories are obviously better than others, but more than few leave an uneasy feeling (in a good way) of how the story was concluded. My favourites were; Routine About a woodsman and his relationship with his young son. The Game where a patient at a mental institution believes it’s fake and part of a game show Munchausen's Little Proxy a wealthy heiress has a unusual fetish that her family and love ones can’t save her from. While these I felt had a more eerie original edge so they stood out more for me, the other stories I'd say are still good and there’s not really a bad one between them.
The art I feel was good, and the monochrome colours and shading added to the nature of the stories being told.
Mixing together a group of individual stories like a darker version of Twilight Zone or like Black Mirror without the futuristic technology aspect, this is done rather well. Here the stories I felt with neither too short or too long. Some graphic novel short stories I’ve read, the individual stories always seem on the short side and lack putting more meat on the bones. This wasn’t an issue while reading here, I felt each one was enough without leaving too much out and each felt like a whole story.
Unsettling and moving at times and sometimes a little shocking, this is a strange set of stories that I think would appeal to those looking for something that little bit different. I’d say it’s not on the graphic horror side, I can see why some people might be turned away by it, I would overall recommend this. Aiming to do something a little bit different and pulling it of as well as this, is rare, the stories that keep it twisted enough to be that bit unsettling is something that appeals. I think fans of dark offbeat thrillers would appreciate this and I will most likely continue reading the series.
Some stories are obviously better than others, but more than few leave an uneasy feeling (in a good way) of how the story was concluded. My favourites were; Routine About a woodsman and his relationship with his young son. The Game where a patient at a mental institution believes it’s fake and part of a game show Munchausen's Little Proxy a wealthy heiress has a unusual fetish that her family and love ones can’t save her from. While these I felt had a more eerie original edge so they stood out more for me, the other stories I'd say are still good and there’s not really a bad one between them.
The art I feel was good, and the monochrome colours and shading added to the nature of the stories being told.
Mixing together a group of individual stories like a darker version of Twilight Zone or like Black Mirror without the futuristic technology aspect, this is done rather well. Here the stories I felt with neither too short or too long. Some graphic novel short stories I’ve read, the individual stories always seem on the short side and lack putting more meat on the bones. This wasn’t an issue while reading here, I felt each one was enough without leaving too much out and each felt like a whole story.
Unsettling and moving at times and sometimes a little shocking, this is a strange set of stories that I think would appeal to those looking for something that little bit different. I’d say it’s not on the graphic horror side, I can see why some people might be turned away by it, I would overall recommend this. Aiming to do something a little bit different and pulling it of as well as this, is rare, the stories that keep it twisted enough to be that bit unsettling is something that appeals. I think fans of dark offbeat thrillers would appreciate this and I will most likely continue reading the series.
February 24, 2018
Fascinating
I want this on a Goodreads first reads giveaway!
I was excited to get my hands on a copy because it sounded fantastic. I have never read a graphic novel on the Kindle. It was an amazing experience. You got to see in-depth look at each picture blown up and were able to appreciate the work that each illustrator demonstrated. I was so engrossed in the each story that I actually finish this in one sitting. I was unable to start looking and reading and admiring the work. I have not read a graphic novel in adulthood And now I’m wondering why I waited so long. I was impressed with the stories and blown away by the illustrations. My favorite story was Routine. It was clever and eerie. My favorite illustration was The Game. I will be recommending this to all of my friends. I want them to experience how cool this graphic novel is especially on the Kindle.
I want this on a Goodreads first reads giveaway!
I was excited to get my hands on a copy because it sounded fantastic. I have never read a graphic novel on the Kindle. It was an amazing experience. You got to see in-depth look at each picture blown up and were able to appreciate the work that each illustrator demonstrated. I was so engrossed in the each story that I actually finish this in one sitting. I was unable to start looking and reading and admiring the work. I have not read a graphic novel in adulthood And now I’m wondering why I waited so long. I was impressed with the stories and blown away by the illustrations. My favorite story was Routine. It was clever and eerie. My favorite illustration was The Game. I will be recommending this to all of my friends. I want them to experience how cool this graphic novel is especially on the Kindle.
June 4, 2018
These are like a Twilight Zone for the contemporary audience and in comic format. Black Mirror came to mind as a comparison, too. Little stories which show how the world can be fucked due to flaws in ourselves (or, sometimes, just because nature is evil). I loved that they were interconnected (not all, but most) and how they featured an international, diverse cast of characters, who at the same time were not condescended upon to be left two-dimensional goody-two-shoes. Perhaps because I am into disturbing things and I knew about some things that are supposed to be punchlines or instrumental to the punchline, like Munchausen's by proxy, it was a little predictable at times, and a little convenient. But for instance the Sanjeev story completely knocked the air out of me, and the Norwegian father story, even if I saw it coming, made me weep.
March 1, 2024
Truly, and I mean this from the bottom of my heart, this was the worst thing I have ever read.
Not only is it written by someone with a shockingly tenuous grasp over the English language, but it is also weirdly Islamophobic, and treats women like non-human sex objects for 201 pages of utter trash. I genuinely have never read anything so short and yet so incredibly hard to read because of how badly written and boring it was. This review may sound harsh, but I came out of this convinced that it was written by an incel, so I think it's deserved.
My constructive criticism would be learn how to write well and have a conversation with a woman that lasts more than three seconds. Maybe then you'll realise they're actually people!
Not only is it written by someone with a shockingly tenuous grasp over the English language, but it is also weirdly Islamophobic, and treats women like non-human sex objects for 201 pages of utter trash. I genuinely have never read anything so short and yet so incredibly hard to read because of how badly written and boring it was. This review may sound harsh, but I came out of this convinced that it was written by an incel, so I think it's deserved.
My constructive criticism would be learn how to write well and have a conversation with a woman that lasts more than three seconds. Maybe then you'll realise they're actually people!
September 4, 2017
Solid 3.5. Enjoyable, some of the stories were at 5 stars some were a 2
January 22, 2019
When I read the beginning chapters, it didnt exactly intrigue me, but it still stood out to me and I thought "maybe I should read more" and since then I have been absolutely obsessed!
Not only are the chapters compelling, but it truley shocks me that they are all one story!
I would defintely recommend this book to anyone who interested in physcological horror!
Not only are the chapters compelling, but it truley shocks me that they are all one story!
I would defintely recommend this book to anyone who interested in physcological horror!
August 9, 2018
Good Stuff
I read this on a round trip flight. Great travel reading!. The stories are shirt and to the point and not standard comic book fare. The artwork is sharp and fits the mood.
I'll be looking for Volume 2
I read this on a round trip flight. Great travel reading!. The stories are shirt and to the point and not standard comic book fare. The artwork is sharp and fits the mood.
I'll be looking for Volume 2
August 4, 2017
I met Neil at MCM 2017 and promised him to leave a review...... so here it is NEIL!
I bought Tortured Life from him the year before, which if you haven't read...... please do!
So let's begin!
Each tale of horror has it's own twist's, turn's,recurring character's and intertwining stories which each deal with their own 'twisted dark' plot. There's some really disturbing material covered such as abuse and murder.
I ended up reading the whole book in a day, when each chapter passed the more I wanted to read the next and the next and the next!
Easy to say it was one of the most intriguing and best graphic novels I've read in while, I have purchased chapter 2 and can't wait to start that!
I bought Tortured Life from him the year before, which if you haven't read...... please do!
So let's begin!
Each tale of horror has it's own twist's, turn's,recurring character's and intertwining stories which each deal with their own 'twisted dark' plot. There's some really disturbing material covered such as abuse and murder.
I ended up reading the whole book in a day, when each chapter passed the more I wanted to read the next and the next and the next!
Easy to say it was one of the most intriguing and best graphic novels I've read in while, I have purchased chapter 2 and can't wait to start that!
January 10, 2016
Rate: 4.5/5 ☆☆☆☆<
Writing: Neil Gibson's writing style is incredibly compelling. Each line draws you into the next. His use of plot twisting is masterful and it kept this book on my mind long after I put it down.
Art Style: I really enjoyed the art in this graphic novel. Typically I prefer more colorful artwork, but the gray scale used to illustrate this novel was perfect for the story and further drew me into the world.
Characters: The characters are so perfectly draw, both literally and figuratively. Gibson took a character, connected it to you, and then let shit hit the fan. It was amazing to see a character I rooted for and trusted, completely surprise me in a very believable way. The character building was bear flawless.
Review:
I've never been very attracted to graphic novels or comic books. I typically prefer books that consist of only text in words because I find them less confusing. Often when attempting to read a graphic novel I cannot focus what is happening because I never know what sections to read and look at first. I then space out due to in inability to connect with the story. I think this is because I have tried to throw my self into graphic novels that might not suit beginners as well. Twisted Dark was the perfect book to get me into the world of graphic novels. Twisted Dark consists of multiple companion stories. Some have clear connections to others while some don't, some stories are brought back and elaborated on while others are kept as stand alone, but they all had one thing in common: They are all insanely creepy! Each story builds up this tension that doesn't allow you to put the book down until it ends, as each story does, with some major plow twist that takes everything you thought you knew makes its ten times creepier! Although, I will say that this wasn't so much scary, as it is disturbing so don't expect American Horror Story level shivers, but it really takes you out of the real world and sucks you into the world of this book. I highly recommend this book for people who are trying to get into graphic novels and for people who love creepy, mind-fucky tales of insanity. I guarantee that you will not be able to put it down. I finished this in less than a two days and just in time for Halloween.
Writing: Neil Gibson's writing style is incredibly compelling. Each line draws you into the next. His use of plot twisting is masterful and it kept this book on my mind long after I put it down.
Art Style: I really enjoyed the art in this graphic novel. Typically I prefer more colorful artwork, but the gray scale used to illustrate this novel was perfect for the story and further drew me into the world.
Characters: The characters are so perfectly draw, both literally and figuratively. Gibson took a character, connected it to you, and then let shit hit the fan. It was amazing to see a character I rooted for and trusted, completely surprise me in a very believable way. The character building was bear flawless.
Review:
I've never been very attracted to graphic novels or comic books. I typically prefer books that consist of only text in words because I find them less confusing. Often when attempting to read a graphic novel I cannot focus what is happening because I never know what sections to read and look at first. I then space out due to in inability to connect with the story. I think this is because I have tried to throw my self into graphic novels that might not suit beginners as well. Twisted Dark was the perfect book to get me into the world of graphic novels. Twisted Dark consists of multiple companion stories. Some have clear connections to others while some don't, some stories are brought back and elaborated on while others are kept as stand alone, but they all had one thing in common: They are all insanely creepy! Each story builds up this tension that doesn't allow you to put the book down until it ends, as each story does, with some major plow twist that takes everything you thought you knew makes its ten times creepier! Although, I will say that this wasn't so much scary, as it is disturbing so don't expect American Horror Story level shivers, but it really takes you out of the real world and sucks you into the world of this book. I highly recommend this book for people who are trying to get into graphic novels and for people who love creepy, mind-fucky tales of insanity. I guarantee that you will not be able to put it down. I finished this in less than a two days and just in time for Halloween.
September 11, 2015
*Book source ~ A review copy was provided in exchange for an honest review.
From Goodreads:
Twisted Dark forms the first book in an upcoming. This, the first volume, is formed of 12 individual and unique stories comprising of nearly 200 hundred pages. The stories vary from 10 year old girls to Columbian drug lords and everything in between but the stories are all somehow connected some obviously so and some not. It is left to the reader to find the connections, with some connections impossible to see unless you have read multiple volumes. The books contains horror, dark, at times demented, stories incorporating every human emotion, illegal activity, and brutal reality. Using various illustrators allows each story and character to develop their own form the reader is left desperate to turn the pages. The book has been embraced by the comic book world receiving critical acclaim and a cult underground following.
Twisted Dark ~ Definitions
Suicide ~ Pouring out feelings online. {4 bites}
Routine ~ A man and his son living in a cabin in the woods. {4 bites}
A Lighter Note ~ A poor man aspires to rise above his beginnings with hard work. {4 bites}
Windopayne ~ A mysterious, rich and eligible man invents a revolutionary window. {4 bites}
The Game ~ A man in a mental institution. Crazy? Is he or isn’t he? {4 bites}
Blame ~ Assigning blame. Or not. {4 bites}
Heavenly Note ~ The poor man from A Lighter Note is back. {4 bites}
Cocaína ~ One sentence, so many meanings. {5 bites}
The Pushman ~ This is an actual job?! {3 bites}
Münchausen’s Little Proxy ~ Doing something to yourself is one thing, doing it to someone else is a whole different kettle of fish. {4 bites}
The Last Laugh ~ What? WHAT?! {4 bites}
Each story has a dark twist at the end that I wasn’t expecting. Talk about a jolt straight to the system. Eeek! The illustrations fit the story matter. Done all in black & white they are dark yet that doesn’t detract from the artwork which I enjoyed. Even though horror is way down on my long list of genres I love to read, I would definitely continue with this series.
From Goodreads:
Twisted Dark forms the first book in an upcoming. This, the first volume, is formed of 12 individual and unique stories comprising of nearly 200 hundred pages. The stories vary from 10 year old girls to Columbian drug lords and everything in between but the stories are all somehow connected some obviously so and some not. It is left to the reader to find the connections, with some connections impossible to see unless you have read multiple volumes. The books contains horror, dark, at times demented, stories incorporating every human emotion, illegal activity, and brutal reality. Using various illustrators allows each story and character to develop their own form the reader is left desperate to turn the pages. The book has been embraced by the comic book world receiving critical acclaim and a cult underground following.
Twisted Dark ~ Definitions
Suicide ~ Pouring out feelings online. {4 bites}
Routine ~ A man and his son living in a cabin in the woods. {4 bites}
A Lighter Note ~ A poor man aspires to rise above his beginnings with hard work. {4 bites}
Windopayne ~ A mysterious, rich and eligible man invents a revolutionary window. {4 bites}
The Game ~ A man in a mental institution. Crazy? Is he or isn’t he? {4 bites}
Blame ~ Assigning blame. Or not. {4 bites}
Heavenly Note ~ The poor man from A Lighter Note is back. {4 bites}
Cocaína ~ One sentence, so many meanings. {5 bites}
The Pushman ~ This is an actual job?! {3 bites}
Münchausen’s Little Proxy ~ Doing something to yourself is one thing, doing it to someone else is a whole different kettle of fish. {4 bites}
The Last Laugh ~ What? WHAT?! {4 bites}
Each story has a dark twist at the end that I wasn’t expecting. Talk about a jolt straight to the system. Eeek! The illustrations fit the story matter. Done all in black & white they are dark yet that doesn’t detract from the artwork which I enjoyed. Even though horror is way down on my long list of genres I love to read, I would definitely continue with this series.
July 2, 2016
I absolutely loved this book, I met Neil Gibson in person at the Irish comic con who had a little challenge set up, we were to try and read a story or two from his collection of dark and twisted short stories in the first volume and attempt not to enjoy. Suffice to say I failed the challenge. I immediately bought the book and got to talking with neil himself who seems to be a genuinely humble person passionate about their work.
Enough gush though it's time for the actual content reviewing. Each story has it's own pacing different from the last and in each and everyone Neil delivers a unique character we get to be connected with regardless of the length of their story, he succesfully connects the reader with each character to the point where we feel we understand them, until he pulls the rug from under our feet with a cheeky smirk revealing a twist that will make you want to re-read the story in a much darker tone.
The illustrations are black and white based and done by a multitude of talented artists - though one story in particular "pushman" I felt paled in comparison to the other memorable illustrations all-in-all they were high quality, eye catching, dark imagery to match the tone of the collection.
I ate this book up after my first taste at the challenge, highly reccommended to any horror fans who live for a good twist, the book is full of them, there are varying levels of quality, some are absolutely brilliant while some are just good, one or two twists I predicted and yet - between the writing and the illustrations I still thoroughly enjoyed the story.
An easy 5/5. Cannot wait to get my hands on the other volumes.
Enough gush though it's time for the actual content reviewing. Each story has it's own pacing different from the last and in each and everyone Neil delivers a unique character we get to be connected with regardless of the length of their story, he succesfully connects the reader with each character to the point where we feel we understand them, until he pulls the rug from under our feet with a cheeky smirk revealing a twist that will make you want to re-read the story in a much darker tone.
The illustrations are black and white based and done by a multitude of talented artists - though one story in particular "pushman" I felt paled in comparison to the other memorable illustrations all-in-all they were high quality, eye catching, dark imagery to match the tone of the collection.
I ate this book up after my first taste at the challenge, highly reccommended to any horror fans who live for a good twist, the book is full of them, there are varying levels of quality, some are absolutely brilliant while some are just good, one or two twists I predicted and yet - between the writing and the illustrations I still thoroughly enjoyed the story.
An easy 5/5. Cannot wait to get my hands on the other volumes.
July 4, 2015
'Twisted Dark, Volume 1' by Neil Gibson is a series of 12 stories. They all deliver on the title, and many of them are interwoven. The writing was good, but I wasn't as crazy about some of the art.
The stories all have a sort of twist to them. There is one about someone contemplating suicide, or a man who invented a new window technology. There is a man in India working in appalling conditions that fights for a change. There is a family with a sick child. There is a man in the South American drug trade, and a man in a mental hospital that thinks he's part of some strange reality TV show. Some of these people become victims of their choices, but others have dark motives, like the Pushman who works on a Tokyo train platform and uses his job to get his revenge.
The stories are good, and there are some interesting connections to be found between the stories for the astute reader. I also liked that the stories took place all over the globe. There are a variety of artists, and I felt like the art was a bit hit or miss for me. I liked some better than others. Not a bad collection for those who like their stories dark. I'm looking forward to reading the next two volumes.
I received a review copy of this graphic novel from Diamond Book Distributors, TPub, and NetGalley in exchagne for an honest review. Thank you for allowing me to review this graphic novel.
The stories all have a sort of twist to them. There is one about someone contemplating suicide, or a man who invented a new window technology. There is a man in India working in appalling conditions that fights for a change. There is a family with a sick child. There is a man in the South American drug trade, and a man in a mental hospital that thinks he's part of some strange reality TV show. Some of these people become victims of their choices, but others have dark motives, like the Pushman who works on a Tokyo train platform and uses his job to get his revenge.
The stories are good, and there are some interesting connections to be found between the stories for the astute reader. I also liked that the stories took place all over the globe. There are a variety of artists, and I felt like the art was a bit hit or miss for me. I liked some better than others. Not a bad collection for those who like their stories dark. I'm looking forward to reading the next two volumes.
I received a review copy of this graphic novel from Diamond Book Distributors, TPub, and NetGalley in exchagne for an honest review. Thank you for allowing me to review this graphic novel.
August 13, 2013
Let me tell you why I love the Twisted Dark Series:
For starters, the art is very impressive and unique on its own. It perfectly portrays the "twisted" and "dark" theme. I like going through each story and getting that sensation of shock and alarm because it's not like a happily ever after. You cannot always predict the ending and then when it hits you, you just want to see more.
What also like about the stories is that how they have the ability to continue and reference each other. I would read a story and gasp, "Oh snap! That's the guy from the last story they are talking about!" It's so captivating and keeps you at the edge of your seat. I was glad I had the first three volumes because I don't know if I could have waited on the next part. If you like dark humor as much as I do, this is definitely the comic to pick up.
For starters, the art is very impressive and unique on its own. It perfectly portrays the "twisted" and "dark" theme. I like going through each story and getting that sensation of shock and alarm because it's not like a happily ever after. You cannot always predict the ending and then when it hits you, you just want to see more.
What also like about the stories is that how they have the ability to continue and reference each other. I would read a story and gasp, "Oh snap! That's the guy from the last story they are talking about!" It's so captivating and keeps you at the edge of your seat. I was glad I had the first three volumes because I don't know if I could have waited on the next part. If you like dark humor as much as I do, this is definitely the comic to pick up.
June 25, 2015
3.5 Stars
Read all my reviews on http://urlphantomhive.booklikes.com
A set of short 'twisted, dark' graphic stories which promised something I really like: hidden and not so hidden connections between them.
At first this seems a little weird, as the style and tone differs quite a lot between the stories and they deal with a lot of different themes (but always a little twisted turn to it). But then, when you start noticing the connections between the stories, it's a lot of fun. Of course, I liked certain stories better than others, but overall this was quite an enjoyable collection. And also a good attempt from the author to bring the fact to attention that he's actually not Mel Gibson (I feel some frustrations there).
Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for providing me with a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review!
Read all my reviews on http://urlphantomhive.booklikes.com
A set of short 'twisted, dark' graphic stories which promised something I really like: hidden and not so hidden connections between them.
At first this seems a little weird, as the style and tone differs quite a lot between the stories and they deal with a lot of different themes (but always a little twisted turn to it). But then, when you start noticing the connections between the stories, it's a lot of fun. Of course, I liked certain stories better than others, but overall this was quite an enjoyable collection. And also a good attempt from the author to bring the fact to attention that he's actually not Mel Gibson (I feel some frustrations there).
Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for providing me with a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 130 reviews