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The best stories are often those that ignite questions in the reader’s mind. One particularly compelling philosophical discourse comes in the form of an admirably assembled comic. The Confessional deals with the core issues of Good and Evil, God and the Devil, and takes a look at the role each play in the universe.

First, a look at the art and dialogue. Lee O’Connor’s art is nothing short of excellent. Especially good is his use of color, as seen when he uses a two-tone gray-on-white scheme to great effect in rendering Heaven and moments of brilliant light. In the confessional itself there is a persistent, understated amber glow about Lucifer in an otherwise dark booth, perhaps giving a hint of the flames of damnation or even serving as a visual metaphor for his seething anger. The choice of panel shots is also very strong, providing scenes that clearly convey the characters’ moods and feelings without requiring a single word. Yet the words we do get are well crafted. Chris McCay’s writing could have worked as a dialogue-only prose piece without a single change. Together, art and dialogue make for a solid, compelling book.

The story is interesting in that it has only two main characters, each one apparently representing the opposites of Good and Evil. Yet those distinctions are quickly grayed as their conversation continues and Lucifer makes his wishes known to the priest. This itself prompts some excellent, unanswered questions. For example, why did Lucifer choose this particular priest for his first-ever confession? Perhaps because he suspected this one would understand the absolute necessity of having a polar opposite to God and would do anything to keep Lucifer in that role. Also interesting is the acknowledgment that the name "Lucifer" itself means "light bringer," or "knowledge bringer" as the character himself interprets it. He complains that he was only fulfilling the purpose the Creator had given him, and he has been ostracized and punished for it.

If you happen to read this book, come back and read this review again. I’ve not given everything away here, and I’d be interested to know your thoughts on the story and the questions it generates for you. You can reach me at louis@comiccritique.com.