Shauna Returns in ‘Kill or Be Quilt’: The Wholesome Mystery Everyone’s Talking About!

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2023 saw Jon Allison and Max Sarin, the creative duo behind the cherished comic series “Giant Days,” join forces once again for the miniseries “The Great British Bump-Off.” This unique blend brought together two popular U.K. cultural pillars: the delightful competition show “The Great British Bake Off” and the captivating cozy mystery genre of detective stories. In this series, we meet Shauna Wickle, a charming and eager sleuth, as she untangles the mystery behind a contestant’s poisoning within Britain’s prestigious baking tent.

Now, Allison, Sarin, colorist Sammy Borras, and letterer Jim Campbell have revived Shauna for another case in “The Great British Bump-Off: Kill or Be Quilt” #1 from Dark Horse Comics. This new installment offers everything that fans of the original series craved, or even those who missed out on it entirely.

In the revamped series titled “Kill or Be Quilt,” Shauna departs from her usual setting and instead of returning to the iconic tent, she sets sail on a leisurely canal voyage in a borrowed boat. Contrary to expectations, this new title does not imply that Shauna is competing in a crafting contest or has anything to do with quilting as suggested by the subtitle. Instead, the series unfolds with Shauna stranded in a picturesque town and taking up work at a local craft store to cover her boat repair costs. The story maintains its grounded feel until the climax hints at a mysterious plot twist.





The fact that Shauna returns for another thrilling escapade in this sequel implies a potential future where she might be the central character in numerous mystery series (fingers crossed!). These types of serial stories thrive on strong leads, and Shauna is more than capable, exuding an irresistible blend of curiosity, compassion, and proficiency. While not without flaws – her tendency to ignore boat-knotting lessons being one example that lands her in trouble during a vacation – the new individuals she encounters soon appreciate her kindness and reliability, reinforcing what fans and readers have always known about her.

Through Sarin’s artwork, we get a deep understanding of Shauna and her associates. The characters are incredibly expressive, whether it’s their animated eyes that widen with excitement or narrow with suspicion, broad smiles or frowns, or their expressive body language, all contributing to the character design. For instance, a panel showing sunny Shauna leaning over the store counter to shake hands with Daphne, the dark-haired co-worker, presents a clear picture of Shauna’s eagerness contrasting with Daphne’s skepticism.

Additionally, this comic occasionally strays from realism to portray emotional truth. For example, when Shauna starts melting while sharing her desperate situation with Daphne, the artwork reflects this intense emotion. This technique is also used in other scenes of extreme emotion or imaginative flights throughout the story.

In the first person as a fan: I can’t help but feel the delightful, pulsating vibe simmering just beneath the surface of “The Great British Bump-Off: Kill or Be Quilt” #1. It’s inviting, perhaps even heartwarming, yet never overly saccharine. The first issue of its comeback is a testament to the series’ enduring form, and it welcomes both new readers and those eagerly awaiting its return since the finale of the initial series.

The confident pacing sets the stage for the cast of characters, gradually building anticipation for the mystery ahead, while the lively artwork maintains a fresh and engaging atmosphere throughout. All in all, “Kill or Be Quilt” #1 is a meticulously crafted comic that leaves me craving more!

Rating: 5 out of 5

Published by Dark Horse Comics

On April 9, 2025

Written by John Allison

Art by Max Sarin

Colorsby Sammy Borras

Letters by Jim Campbell

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2025-04-09 18:41