Genre: Urban Fantasy | Writer: Shon C. Bury | Artist: Allan Goldman | Release Date: 2009
Publisher: Space Goat Productions
An urban fantasy that follows two overeducated Seattle hipsters, Joey and Bobby, as they embark on an epic road trip across a world slipping into shadow and myth.
Writing
Shon C. Bury crafts a grounded yet imaginative urban fantasy that begins in the familiar streets of Seattle and shifts into a realm of surreal, magical chaos. The story centers on Joseph Robert King, aka Joey, a clever and introspective lead whose calm nature plays well against his best friend Bobby’s loud, brash, and overly referential personality. Their banter provides character depth, though Bobby’s relentless pop culture references can grow tedious. Joey’s girlfriend, Kiko, offers a stabilizing influence with her warmth and likability, subtly balancing out Joey’s stoicism. The Nun, one of the more eccentric supporting characters, adds to the absurdist undertones of the story while still providing narrative weight.
Bury’s pacing is solid, and his character work stands out, even if the raunchy humor occasionally overwhelms the plot. Subplots and arcs are smartly interwoven, making for a world that feels lived-in despite its fantastical elements. While the tone sometimes veers into self-indulgence with its dialogue, the core story and themes remain strong throughout.
Rating: 3 out of 5
Art Style
Allan Goldman’s art delivers a clean, grounded visual aesthetic that complements the narrative's urban setting before leaping into the fantastical. His expressive character designs breathe life into the cast—especially in the emotive faces of Joey and Kiko—and his attention to environmental detail makes both mundane and magical settings feel immersive. Paneling is dynamic, intuitive, and effectively guides the reader through the story’s tonal shifts.
Ed Waysek III’s colors elevate the artwork even further. His palette ranges from the muted tones of rainy Seattle streets to vibrant, saturated hues that mark the entrance into supernatural territory. Together, Goldman and Waysek create a cohesive visual experience that enhances the story’s emotional and thematic arcs without ever overshadowing them.
Rating: 3 out of 5
The Verdict
In the end, Shon C. Bury’s Nox is an inventive, self-aware urban fantasy graphic novel with smart writing, strong characters, and standout visuals. While some dialogue choices wear thin, the compelling story, rich artwork, and memorable cast make this a worthwhile read. Shon C. Bury’s Nox gets 3 out of 5.
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