When one stops to think about ancient Rome, they generally tend to think about gladiators, togas and Julius Caesar. One thing that doesn't immediately spring to mind when thinking about ancient Rome is vampires. Unless of course you're reading "Ides of Blood", the new limited series from DC Comic's Wildstorm division. Writer Stuart C. Paul, new to the world of comic books, brings forth a bloody tale of conspiracy and noir amid a backdrop of an alternate history in which Julius Caesar's empire has expanded and conquered Transylvania. Having turned Transylvania's vampire population into Rome's new slave class, Roman society is no longer divided by the rich and the poor, but by the living and the dead.
The protagonist of our story is Valens; a vampirific former slave turned Roman solider and head of Caesar's personal bodyguards. Regardless of his higher social standing, Valens is still regarded by most as a lowlife vampire; although Caesar favors him personally. When Caesar's second in command is becomes the latest in a string of murdered aristocrats, Caesar requests Valens to personally find and bring him the head of the vampire responsible for the murders; the Pluto's Kiss Killer. Can Valens find the killer and earn the respect of Rome? Find out in "Ides Of Blood #1" in stores now!
This new series is definitely worth picking up if you like mystery or horror comics. Stuart C. Paul's writing fleshes out this story excellently and his vision of an alternate history of Rome with vampires easily sets this book apart from the rest of the vampire related media available these days. New artist Christian Duce's artwork makes this world feel like a living breathing place; giving readers a bloody cornucopia of action and drama as they make their way through the story. "Ides Of Blood" is definitely a book worth picking up, and a series that you don't want to miss! Make sure to stop by your local comic shop to pick up your copy of issue #1 today!
To find comic shops near you, call 1-888-comicbook or visit www.comicshoplocator.com
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