Odin #1 Is a Wild Ride Through the Underbelly of the Internet and Myth (Review)

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In 2026, the internet is a chaotic and often unpleasant place, and the comic Odin #1 reflects that unsettling reality. Published by Image Comics—known for its innovative independent titles—this series comes from acclaimed writers James Tynion IV and Marguerite Bennett. Tynion IV has a strong track record of compelling indie work with publishers like Image, BOOM!, and Vertigo, while Bennett is celebrated for her work on titles like DC Bombshells and Batgirl, as well as her creator-owned comics InSeXts and Animosity. Both writers are skilled at connecting their stories to real-world issues, and they’re joined by artist Letizia Cadonici, who previously collaborated with Tynion IV on the House of Slaughter spin-off of Something Is Killing the Children.

Tynion IV’s successful collaborations, like Exquisite Corpses, suggest his new comic Odin, co-written with Bennett, will be exceptional. The story centers on reporter Adela, who infiltrates a group of alt-right, pagan Odinists, gaining the trust of their leader, Austin. She joins them on a journey to find their gods, but what they discover is terrifying – and it’s just the start of a disturbing exploration into both human and divine darkness.

Rating: 4.5 out of 5

Pros Cons
Tynion IV and Bennett build a cast of realistic alt-right followers and build the tension and horror beautifully The ending doesn’t really feel like the right place for this issue to end, if that makes any sense
Cadonici’s art is perfect for this story, her pencils really giving the whole thing a real world feel that makes the horror pop
There’s a frightening feeling of reality to this book that really helps it hit hard

Tynion IV and Bennett Build a Perfect Horror Story That Ends in the Wrong Place

If you’ve spent any time online, particularly if you’re familiar with opposing far-right ideologies, the first issue of Odin will hit close to home. It immediately immerses you in the world of alt-right Odinists – people who use Norse mythology to promote a sense of “white heritage,” which is often just a thinly veiled expression of racism. The story begins with the line, “They laugh and say they’re Nazis,” which feels ripped from an online conversation, and it continues in that realistic vein. The authors skillfully introduce a cast of characters who could easily be found anywhere, making the whole story feel incredibly authentic.

This book’s story – a journalist going undercover within the alt-right and discovering something truly frightening – feels incredibly relevant today. It captures the strange, performative nature of the movement, something anyone familiar with it will recognize. The atmosphere shifts dramatically when a key figure, Fred, appears, similar to how a fervent believer can change an online conversation. The climax is intense and unsettling, exposing a moment of apparent joy for what it really is. However, the final few pages feel out of place and might have worked better if introduced earlier in the story. This pacing issue is the only real weakness; otherwise, the book is captivating and believable, populated with characters that feel like people you’d encounter online, but the ending feels rushed.

Cadonici’s Gorgeous Linework Gives This Issue the Perfect Visual Identity

The opening page of Odin #1 powerfully depicts the Norse god Odin sacrificing himself to the world tree in pursuit of knowledge – a fitting start to the series. This impact is due both to the exceptional artwork by Cadonici and its importance to the story’s themes. Cadonici’s detailed linework – strong yet delicate – lends the book a crucial sense of realism. This realism is essential, as the script by Tynion IV and Bennett relies on connecting with readers familiar with alt-right ideologies, and Cadonici’s art perfectly achieves that effect.

As a huge comic fan, I’ve got to say the artwork in this issue is just phenomenal. The colors aren’t just pretty; they really nail the mood of every scene. And the artist, Cadonici, is incredible with character expressions – you instantly connect with who these people are. There’s this one moment where Adela calls out Austin, the leader, and you can feel his fear as he realizes she’s smarter than him, that she could expose him. The way the pages are laid out is brilliant too. Cadonici uses each panel perfectly to build tension and really ramp up the emotional impact of every scene. By the time you get to the crazy finale, you’re completely invested, and the art perfectly captures the wild, horrifying energy of the climax. It’s a truly amazing visual experience.

Scott Tynion IV has been consistently delivering excellent work since shifting away from traditional superhero comics, and his new book with Steve Bennett looks to be another hit. Odin #1 is a standout example of modern horror, perfectly capturing the anxieties of our time. I was completely captivated from beginning to end, and it felt like stumbling into a hidden corner of the internet – one of those unsettling online communities you discover when venturing into darker online spaces.

Odin #1 is on sale now.

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2026-05-20 16:41