Falling in Love on the Path to Hell #5 is published by Image Comics. Features Gerry Duggan (Author & Story Art), Garry Brown (Illustrator and artist), Chris O’Halloran (Colour Artist), Joe Sabino (Letterer) and Elliott Gray (Logo & Designer)
Falling in Love on the Path to Hell #5 is available in print and digital platforms where all good comic books are sold. Grab your digital copy from Amazon Comixology UK right here.
Synopsis
Your new favourite ongoing begins its second arc. The lovers have met, and the sparks of love are igniting. Asami ; MacRaith are fighting their feelings for each other…they’re also fighting the warrior cult they’ve spurned and some new hidden forest enemies. Plus, some look backward at the choices they made in life that lead them to hell. This series is stabby, shooty, and horny, and you know you need it. Hearing that FRANK MILLER enjoyed the debut issue of FALLING IN LOVE ON THE PATH TO HELL sent me into orbit.
Frank’s directly responsible for my brain marinating in samurai culture, Ronin is a timeless masterpiece and his indelible covers to the American reprints of Lone Wolf and Cub were my gateway into one of the best comics ever made. It’s not hyperbole to say our comic wouldn’t exist without the inspiration from Frank. Our entire team is delighted and grateful that Frank is sharing his talent on a guest cover for the start of our second arc. A true dream came true.
Review
Falling in Love on the Path to Hell continues with another thrilling instalment. The 5th issue begins with a flashback that provides some insight into Asami’s past, specifically when she fled her arranged marriage. The scene is poignant and does a great job of effectively showcasing her morals and beliefs as a character. Asami’s decision to leave her marriage, her family, and her predetermined destiny is powerful. She reclaims her story and chooses to master her craft as a ronin but at great personal and political cost.
In the present, MacRaith and Asami are exploring their surroundings, and we get to see a variety of beautiful landscapes, each vividly brought to life through exquisite illustrations. I’m particularly struck by the nuanced way in which their cultural backgrounds shape their identities and how they’re visually represented—highlighted by the juxtaposition of traditional swords against modern firearms. Asami comes across as a figure of honour and formidable skill, while MacRaith’s sharp wit and resourcefulness paint him as a cunning counterpart. Their contrasting qualities not only deepen their characterisation but also beautifully symbolise their individual flaws and interdependence. The pieces are slowly falling into place, and it’s clear that they embody the perfect balance of yin and yang for one another.
As mentioned above, the story is unfolding beautifully, with our two main characters gradually uncovering more about each other and, in turn, revealing more about themselves to us. I’m always impressed by how this comic ends each issue. It leaves you wanting more and presents more questions than answers—but in a good way. In issue 5, the plot takes an intriguing twist towards the end, introducing an element that feels both significant and potentially thrilling for the rest of the narrative. I’m eagerly looking forward to seeing how it all comes together.
Verdict
Issue #5 of Falling in Love on the Path to Hell masterfully blends deep character exploration with stunning visuals, setting the stage for an eagerly awaited narrative twist. It’s a compelling continuation that leaves readers craving more.
⭐⭐⭐⭐
