Storm King Comics has announced the next title in its “Dark & Twisted” imprint, a new graphic novel written by Steve Niles (“30 Days of Night”), with art by Trevor Denham (“Tomb of Terror”), called “The Killing Hole.”
Set in 1979, “The Killing Hole” is an emotionally raw and troubling tale of youthful alienation gone horribly wrong. When 14-year-old loner Stewart crosses paths with newly arrived and equally alienated Peter, their shared disdain for school and mutual love of edgy music helps form a fast friendship, allowing them both to escape their suffocating, dead-end home lives. Endlessly tormented by bullies, the two boys find solace and encouragement in their friendship—even if the adults around them disapprove.
As the two boys grow closer, they build a safe space together—an underground bunker where they can be themselves. But that space becomes substantially less safe as their friendship and fantasies become dark and deadly.
Rooted in the pre-technology days of the late 1970s, “The Killing Hole” offers a dark and disturbing exploration of the suburban idyll often presented in popular culture, digging deep into the darkest territory of teenage angst.
“Steve Niles has created a singularly engrossing and surprisingly affecting story that contains all the characteristics of grounded horror with added drama, pathos and a deep understanding of the darker side of humanity,” said Storm King Comics founder and editor Sandy King. “Aided by Trevor Denham’s spectacularly evocative and haunting illustrations, this is a book we think will take up permanent residence in the memories of everyone who reads it.”
“The Killing Hole” features colors by Ryan Winn (“Spawn”) and lettering by Janice Chiang. It will be available July 10, 2024, through direct sales, including at www.StormKingComics.com and at comic shops; the new title will debut at retail booksellers on July 23. The new book will also be featured at the Storm King Comics booth at this year’s San Diego Comic-Con.
Check out a preview of the upcoming graphic novel below:
