No one who was invited to the House knew Max–but she knew each and every one of them. Masters of their fields, titans of industry and knowledge, they all represented the best and brightest of humanity. So when Max whispered to each of them the truth of what they deserved–to be saved from disaster, to carry on the flame of civilization in a paradise built just for them–they all leaped at the chance. Why not? Why shouldn’t they be the ones to live forever? Isn’t it their destiny to survive the culling of the lesser herd? Wouldn’t being named the future of humanity be…nice? The Nice House By the Sea #1 kicks off the next chapter in the sci-fi apocalyptic mystery.

The Nice House on the Lake introduced us to a group of individuals whisked away to a mysterious house by a friend as the world ended. The series was a fascinating mix of horror, sci-fi, and philosophy with unexpected twists and turns that kept readers on their toes. The Nice House By the Sea #1 kicks off the highly anticipated follow up written by James Tynion IV. We’re introduced to a new group of individuals in a new location with a new alien as their “savior.” It’s been years since the world ended and the twist of the comic isn’t as much of a twist. The cards are on the table and it’d seem this group knew what was coming and were picked not necessarily out of friendship.

Tynion introduces us to a group of achievers, award winners, and some pretty big thinkers in the world. They are big personalities as well, leaders in their own way and they seem to have accepted their fate. There’s hints about a contest between houses and there’s more control they have over their situation, in all of that, Tynion gives us a next chapter that’s a different perspective on the same story in some ways. It’s a familiar concept with very new dynamics.

Joining Tynion is Alvaro Martinez Bueno and Jordie Bellaire, whose art and color haven’t missed a beat from the previous series. It still has a hauntingly beautiful dreamlike quality about it and each of these characters look feel as big as their personality and success. The world again feels beautiful and artificial at the same time. It’s a place readers would want to visit but also feel trapped in. It’s a perfect continuation visually of the previous series.

The Nice House By the Sea #1 is another fantastic debut that builds up a mystery and also lays a lot of cards on the table. Like it’s first chapter, this one will have us at the edge of our seats awaiting the next issue to see where it all goes.

Story: James Tynion IV Art: Alvaro Martinez Bueno
Color: Jordie Bellaire Letterer: Andworld Design
Story: 9.0 Art: 9.0 Overall: 9.0 Recommendation: Buy

DC Comics provided Graphic Policy with a FREE copy for review

Purchase: TFAW – Zeus Comics – Kindle