
Writer: Ron Marz
Artist: Marco Castiello
Colorist: Flavio Dispenza
what’s it about?
In 2008, husband-and-wife Russian intelligence operatives walk into the U.S. Embassy in the Dominican Republic in order to defect, making a deal to trade secrets for new lives. But instead of the American Dream, Janosh and Victorya Neumann find themselves caught up in red tape, bureaucracy, and turf wars between the FBI and CIA—all while their past tries to kill them.



The Good
Almost American is cinematic in its presentation. This is certainly a book I’d recommend to someone who is suffering from superhero fatigue and wants to enter the world of espionage and intrigue. The artwork by Castiello is stunning. The character designs, settings, and page layout are masterfully presented. The fact that the story is based in part on the life and work of Janosh Neumann, a former Russian FSB, makes this book even more compelling. The companion time and interview that conclude the issue add a great deal to the experience.
The Bad
Castiello’s art is amazing but at times static and lacking depth. Despite the superb dialogue presented throughout the issue, the characters are seldom drawn with their mouths open. I know that sounds like an unreasonable issue to take with the art but it becomes a distracting element. Overall, this was an excellent book. I’m hoping that as the series progresses we get a further glimpse into the world of spies and espionage, which are mostly just alluded to in this issue.


