Cassie Hack continues training at Hunters for Hire to become the greatest slasher killer ever. Now, she and her school friends are hunting a slasher who has been forcing children to kill their families. Hack/Slash: Back to School #3 by Zoe Thorogood has plenty of blood, humor, and charm that will delight horror fans looking for a unique coming-of-age story. 

Almost immediately, Thorogood draws the reader in with her engaging characters and excellent horror comedy. She has a great hold on the series’ established tone and mood and injects it with her sensibilities and idiosyncrasies to make Hack Slash Back to School match her solid artistic style. Thorogood expertly balances the campy high school drama with the horrors of the slashers they face. Considering how dangerous attending high school feels, placing Cassie in the setting makes sense. While the issue has heightened characters, they still appear relatable and flawed in human relationships. Especially for Cassie, who is trying to find her place in the school and the world itself. Thorogood nails that coming-of-age aspect, which gives the series its emotional solid core. 

I also appreciate having a horror comic featuring a mostly exclusive female cast. Each supporting cast is not as simple cliches but as exciting characters; Cassie would be interested in becoming her friend. As a result, the school setting gains a life of its own as a little ecosystem that she must navigate. The characters interact in high school in different manners and take on different approaches when fighting slashers. Whether it be the more outgoing and obsessed Boo or the introspective warrior Sam, they each have a different bond with Cassie. And considering that this comic serves as a prequel, I enjoyed the aspects of the world that were fleshed out. 

Much like her writing, Thorogood’s sublime artwork pushes the issue over the top. Perfectly combining pop alt-indie art with macabre imagery, my eyes quickly clung to each panel. With clean action and small moments of physical comedy, every page is a treat. Similarly, the monster’s designs are excellent. Thorogood puts a unique twist on them by evoking classic J-horror films and manga. Along with color assists by Sarah Mitrache, the issue bursts with tons of energy and flair. Representing Cassie’s inner thoughts via diary paper, Thorogood’s lettering adds to the presentation.

Hack/Slash: Back to School #3 continues to demonstrate Thorogood’s artistic strengths and distinct creative style. The series delivers heart, gore, and comedy to horror fans. It is easily one of the more visually striking titles on the stands. Whether you are a long-time fan of Cassie Hack or looking for a new entryway into a long-running series, Thorogood’s current mini-series will perfectly fit your needs. It’s a bloody and hilarious good time.

Image Comics provided Graphic Policy with a FREE copy for review

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Purchase: TFAW – Zeus Comics – Kindle