One of my favorite things about Sci Fi Magazine was the fact that I got to squeeze a graphic novel review in among the books. As someone who reads almost exclusively manga (in terms of comics, at least), it was a reminder and opportunity to take in Western titles. Best of all, it was a chance to show people things outside the Big Two.

Similarly, I always feel a bit of a pang when something that would have been perfect in the magazine's pages comes my way long after it's shuttered. I had a chance to read the first installments of Gary Moloney and Daniel Romero Ulloa's When the Blood Has Dried earlier this year, and everything about this new title hit all the right beats. A compelling story, gorgeous art, and a fantasy setting rooted in the kid of drama and personal pathos we all seek out tabletop games for.

When the Blood Has Dried was described to me as a "high fantasy spaghetti Western," as well as being inspired by Moloney's own early experiences with tabletop gaming. All of those influences are readily evident in the first handful of volumes. The action starts in the small town of Carraig an Bhun, where Meabh has gone from newcomer to trusted inn owner. But that peace can only last for so long, as her past begins to catch up with her.

Cutting between Meabh's blood-soaked past and her desperate attempts to hang on to a peaceful present, this post-adventure adventure is off to an excellent start. The worldbuilding spins out slowly and unforced, teasing our hero's own past at the same pace as the workings of the world around her. And the "spaghetti Western" (as well as "fantasy Cowboy Bebop") comparison is apt. There's action, but it's not high-octane or overclocked. The pacing is perfect and, having read up to the third installment, I definitely look forward to more.

If you're a fan of grittier D&D campaigns or "post-adventure adventure" fantasy, this is definitely one to adopt early. Issue 1 drops April 10, but you can pre-order it now.