By Dustin Cabeal

When I read the email that the creators sent with this issue, I’ll admit that I didn’t find it interesting and that made it difficult to sit down and give it a fair chance. I started it and quit it a few times, but then one day for whatever reason I stuck with it… I kicked myself for not giving it a chance sooner because I found exactly the type of indie comics I enjoy reading.

Australi is visually stunning. The art style, the coloring, both were unique but polished. It reminded me a lot of Michael Dialynas style, but with its own personality and flair. The visuals were a much of the story as the narration was and the two danced beautifully with each other.

The story follows a young man that has stolen a very important gem. It’s tied to his destiny, but he has no knowledge of it. He’s also being chased by the men that were supposed to deliver the gem to a ruthless Admiral. Mixed in between this is a counsel of protectors, with half of them questioning why the boy was picked and the others acknowledging his destiny.

The first issue of Australi sets up a grand adventure. Sure, it’s the classic “chosen one” story angle following a boy from nothing trying to get everything the wrong way, but it’s well done. Australi is written with a distinguished voice and like the art is well polished in its craft.

When I say that Australi is exactly the type of indie comic I want to read, I mean that it’s an undiscovered gem. The creators are professional in their story, their art, and production which made this a treat to read. I won’t have the same reservations about the second issue and anxiously await reading more of Australi.

Score: 4/5

Australi #1
Writer: Timothy Wood
Artist: Pius Bak
Self-Published
LINK TO PURCHASE