Manifest Destiny 9 cover by Matthew Roberts

I am very pleased with this one because this is rare art from one of the best (Image) series, much like Birthright, you have not read.

The pitch is engaging at the very least; in 1804, upon discovering the presence of huge arches in the unchartered American territory, the US authorities dispatch a military/science party to explore. What will they find lurking in the wilds?

With intelligent writing that takes the time to develop the characters (the series lasted 9 years in order to release its 48 issues) and great art by Matthew Roberts (in a style that is similar to Ryan Ottley’s, only less explosive/bombastic) and delicate muted colors by Owen Gieni, that was a true must read for me.

Now about the cover itself. Even though there are no characters on it, I absolutely LOVE it as I find it quite bold in terms of pure design and resultingly haunting.

That poor butterfly pinned down to the table with its extended wings with what seem like wide open human eyes on it…Both creepy and hypnotizing at the same time as you can tell this is no normal butterfly.

Roberts did a great job with drawing the insect. You really get a feel by way of his using textures on its wings how delicate a creature it is.

The tilted angle adds to the overall creepiness of the scene I find and all those details that reminds you that this book deals with a scientific party: you get nails, a used pencil, some notes and drawing of a species met during the journey. The “US” on the hammer is also a nice detail to remind you the origin of the mission.

Lastly, let me comment on the great coloring on that cover by Gieni as it really adds to the overall creepiness of those eyes.