Romulus #1 – 2016 opens with a bang, introducing readers to a secret war waged in the shadows of history — a high-concept conspiracy thriller packed with action, ancient orders, and a fiercely compelling protagonist. Written by Bryan Hill and illustrated by Nelson Blake II, this debut issue blends modern espionage energy with historical mysticism, making it perfect for fans of stories like Assassin’s Creed or The Bourne Identity — but with a sharper emotional core and a strong female lead.

The story centres on Ashlar, a warrior trained from birth by a clandestine organisation known as the Order of Romulus — a group that manipulates society from behind the scenes using ancient knowledge and brutal methods. After realising the Order's corruption, Ashlar turns against her former masters, embarking on a mission to bring down the very system that created her. This makes for a high-stakes, emotionally charged narrative that’s equal parts martial arts thriller and philosophical meditation on control, loyalty, and identity.

Hill’s script is tight and cinematic, with sharp dialogue and a real sense of urgency. Ashlar is portrayed not just as a weapon, but as a deeply conflicted individual — powerful, intelligent, but carrying the psychological scars of indoctrination and betrayal. Her internal struggle adds real weight to the blistering fight sequences and covert operations that punctuate the issue.

Blake II’s artwork is sleek, stylish, and full of motion. The fight scenes are fluid and brutal, while character expressions and urban backdrops are handled with precision. The clean linework and modern colouring give it a sharp visual edge that suits the tone perfectly, immersing you in a world of secrets and shadows.

Romulus #1 is a confident, character-driven start to what promises to be an epic saga of rebellion, self-discovery, and ancient power plays. It’s a title that blends intelligence with action, and delivers an incredibly strong female lead who’s as thoughtful as she is lethal.

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