A comiXologist recommends:
Red Sonja/Conan #1

by: Dane Cypel

The crossover is a vital part of the comics’ medium. It is a practice where characters from different titles come together to tell a new, shared story; sometimes this synthesis is awkward, sometimes terrible, and other times wonderful. The crossover is also common and seems to happen every week.  Within the past month, there have been titles with Archie and the Predator, Ghostbusters and the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, and once again, Red Sonja and Conan. Even though the crossover, as a sales device may seem like a gimmick to entice readers of these two, separate characters, Red Sonja/Conan #1 has a natural, familiar feel.

This weaving of Red Sonja and Conan into one story should not surprise the keen comic reader. Those familiar with the characters would know that Red Sonja and Conan are a part of the same universe and both stem from the stories of Robert E. Howard. These two characters have crossed paths many times and it was in Marvel’s Conan The Barbarian #23 where this iteration of Sonja made her debut. So some may be asking, what makes this so special?

The story of Red Sonja/Conan #1 is a continuation of the excellent Conan/Red Sonja #1. While the creative team of Simone, Zub and Panosian are not here for this title, their impact from the previous story is apparent. Simone’s characterization of Sonja is certainly felt within this story- where Sonja is a force to be reckoned with. Some may think that Conan is the muscle of this duo but that belief could not be further from the truth. Sonja is a strong and independent female lead who is an excellent counterpart to Conan, the self-described barbarian.  

Perhaps this is where the story stands out the most. With mainstream publishers moving to make more iconic, more powerful, more important female characters- Red Sonja is one who has, in my opinion, always had those traits. She is intelligent, she is strong, and she gives Conan a run for his money. Overall, it is a fun read- to see Sonja stand up to Conan, to be his equal and, at times, partner. These two go well together and they have a fun dynamic.

For those who enjoy reading stories with strong females, dark fantasy, and rugged barbarians, pick up Red Sonja/Conan #1 and give it a shot.

[Read Red Sonja/Conan #1 on comiXology]

Dane Cypel is a digital editor at comiXology and freelance illustrator based in Manhattan.