Something is Killing the Children #45 is written by James Tynion IV and published by BOOM! Studios. Artwork is by Werther Dell’Edera, colours by Miquel Muerto, and letters by AndWorld Design. Main cover art is by Werther Dell’Edera.
Something is Killing the Children #45 is available from today, in comic book stores and on digital platforms where all good comic books are sold. Grab your physical copy from Forbidden Planet or digitally from Amazon Comixology UK.
Synopsis
Erica must take matters into her own hands…before it’s too late!
Tensions rise at the Valmont Mountain House—Jessica’s struggles with alcohol reach a breaking point, forcing the pair to confront what comes next.
As time runs out and the danger increases, Erica must make a decision…one that could define her path as a hunter once and for all.
Review
Issue #45 of Something Is Killing the Children is a proper slow burn — easing off the action and piling on character depth and emotional nuance. This series has become synonymous with epic storytelling and stunning artwork, and this issue is no exception, as #45 takes us back into the past with a young Jessica and a young Erica, offering new layers and subtle details that flesh out both of their backstories. Why does this matter? Because, in classic SIKTC fashion, every new reveal and every tiny piece of information feeds directly into the bigger picture — the bigger, darker, bolder story that’s still unfolding.
We open with a younger Jessica (going by Jessie) and a girl named Mandy, both covered in blood in the snow — you know, your usual SIKTC energy. Then we get that iconic title card drop. The title cards in this series always feel like a dramatic TV show moment — almost Invincible-esque. You never know when it’s going to hit, but when it does, it lands with a punch.
We then cut forward in time to an older Jessica at a bar. She’s clearly struggling with her alcoholism, a thread woven throughout recent issues and something that’s clearly being set up to become even more important. A younger Erica, naturally switched on, sees exactly what’s happening — and she’s been deliberately downplaying her skill so she won’t be sent out alone. She wants to stay close to Jessica to keep her safe, which adds a really lovely layer to Erica’s character. We know Erica as badass, sharp, clever, and cunning — but here, we get that softer side that only shows itself on rare occasions. And when it does, it’s incredibly effective.
This issue is very much a story-builder. We get heaps of character exploration, adding shades and texture to both Erica and Jessica, as well as new dimensions to the secondary characters in this isolated town. It’s clear something big is brewing beneath the surface, and #45 lays the groundwork beautifully, setting the stage for whatever reveal or twist is coming to feel that much more impactful.
Something Is Killing the Children continues to go from strength to strength. This issue focuses heavily on emotional depth, character development, and planting seeds for a much bigger mystery at play. Jessica, Erica, and the supporting cast we’re growing attached to feel like they’re all strapped in for a dangerous ride — one that will no doubt be filled with surprises, twists, and classic SIKTC action.
Verdict
A slow burn packed with character depth, #45 layers Erica and Jessica with new nuances while teasing a larger mystery simmering beneath the surface. It’s clear something big is coming. SIKTC continues to skyrocket for a reason.
In classic SIKTC fashion, every new reveal and every tiny piece of information feeds directly into the bigger picture — the bigger, darker, bolder story that’s still unfolding. So, pick up this comic and be part of the cultural phenomenon as it continues to skyrocket.
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