Review: Blood Hunt #2

We’re two issues in and Blood Hunt is exactly what a main crossover event title should be — thrilling and full of high-stakes moments with a large cast of characters sharing the spotlight. Jed MacKay's script moves at a super-fast pace, without feeling rushed, packed with an intensity that Pepe Larraz and Marte Gracia visualize in epic fashion. The issue follows a handful of plot threads established in the previous issue, each one expertly woven together to create a narrative that's both sprawling and focused.

MacKay's script stands on its own, but also effortlessly nods to the event’s tie-ins in ways that make you actually want to seek them out. He elevates the event into something more than just this Summer's Marvel cash-grab, creating a story that feels truly consequential and far-reaching. The stakes are high, and MacKay delivers a sense of tension and urgency that's hard to put down.

He’s also expertly handling a multitude of personalities, giving each character a sense of individuality while respecting their current or recent placements in the broader Marvel comic universe. From the Avengers to the Midnight Mission, different superheros play a major role in this sprawling adventure, and MacKay handles the large cast with ease. His development of the villainous Bloodcoven could go a bit deeper, but that’s splitting hairs. I may just be asking for too much.

Pepe Larraz's artwork is simply stunning, bringing MacKay's script to life in a visceral way that's made even better in the book’s red-band version. Every page is rich in visual storytelling, with pulse-pounding panels and emotional character moments that resonate deeply. Marte Gracia's colors are equally impressive, adding depth and richness to Larraz's art with a moody dark palette that sets the tone of the book. Gracia does shift to a few bright panels near the end thanks to Vision’s powers giving the Avengers the upperhand for the time being. It’s an awesome panel that stands out compared to the rest of the book.

In short, Blood Hunt #2 is another banger and a perfect follow-up to the debut issue. MacKay, Larraz, and Gracia are creating something special with this event so far!

Rating: 9.5/10