Joanne Starer & Khary Randolph create the story of Layla, a runaway teen fighting to survive on the streets of 1980s NYC. We learn that Layla is a Siren, learning more about her powers & her past all while being hunted down by various groups. She’s also carrying a fetus w/ great power that she never wanted, & she’s determined to take control of her own destiny. As she navigates the treacherous pitfalls she encounters, Layla must confront the forces that seek to control her body & her power.

The story is timely & thought-provoking, exploring themes of bodily autonomy, gender roles, & social class systems. Layla’s journey is a powerful metaphor for the struggles that many women face in a society that seeks to control their bodies & their choices. Through Layla’s story, Starer shines a light on the darker corners of our world, revealing the ways in which power & oppression can manifest in our lives.

Starer’s writing brings Layla’s story to life w/ a narrative that’s both scary & empowering. The pacing is fast-moving & suspenseful, with twists that will keep you on the edge of your seat. Randolph’s illustrations are equally impressive, capturing a grungy world that’s detailed & expressive, w/ a unique style that blends black & white w/ pops of color to great effect, similar to Sin City. The action scenes are true highlights of the latter half of the story. Special s/o to Matt Herms, who joins for colors on issues 5 & 6.

The trade format reveals certain scenes could have either been culled back or expanded upon further for a tighter, more complex story. There are also moments when it felt Layla wasn’t the focal point, but the final arc really brings it all home. Overall, these six collected issues offer a strong, engaging narrative that any fan of fantasy horror will enjoy!

Rating: 8/10