By Damien Becton

For the past two months, I’ve eagerly awaited for issues of Aftershock Comics’ Her Infernal Descent to drop. It’s unique, and one-of-a-kind premise along with truly endearing characters kept me wanting more. Although I am still on board with Aftershock’s unique title, issue number three left me with a puzzled look throughout most of the read. I’m not sure if I knew enough about art history to enjoy the book fully.

This issue picks up right where the previous issue left off. Lynn, now with author Agatha Christie, is searching for an item that’ll give them a clue to the location of her family. Like the previous books, Her Infernal Descent #3 has appearances of real-life creators throughout history - this book, in particular, has the likes of Andy Warhol, Marilyn Monroe, and Vincent Van Gogh. Again, just being able to incorporate these vastly different creators and artists into a coherent narrative is an achievement in itself and seeing Lynn interact with each is great.

However, if you have a limited knowledge of art history (like I do) you might find yourself Googling who these people were. Marilyn Monroe was the easy one - but, as embarrassing as it is to admit, I had to Google the other two. Take a look at search history and you’ll probably see “60s/70s famous pop artist” and “artist who cut ear off.” To me, having to interrupt the reading to look up who these creators were and to try to understand the references took a little out of the narrative - or I’m just not smart enough to appreciate the story.

Regardless, there are some parts that will keep you invested in the story if you are still on board. Lynn again, as she should be, is the star of the book. Her motives are clear and she has no problem letting these historic artists know what is on her mind. She simply wants to find her family and she wants to get that done ASAP. As with the previous issues, her internal monologue is excellent - giving you a clear idea of what she is feeling and thinking, ultimately leading the reader to become invested in her journey.

Overall, the book is solid entry into the young series, so far. Not much progress is made into Lynn’s journey  - she’s basically no closer to achieving her goal than she was at the beginning of the issue. Fortunately, it is Lynn herself that makes the book worth the read. However, if you don’t know much about art history or pop art, you might find yourself a little dumbfounded during the read, which, unfortunately, is extremely off-putting. If you are on board with the book, you’ll probably stick around. Me? I’ll be around for the next issue.

Score: 3/5

Her Infernal Descent #3
Aftershock Comics