Indie comic Intrusive Thoughts – from writer Anthony Stokes, illustrator (and colorist) D.N.S. and letterer Mira Mortal – uses an impressive variety of visual styles and flourishes to tell a gripping, tragic and very intriguing story.

Having spent years with foster parents who don’t seem to care about him, Tyler suffers from nightmares that are becoming increasingly real and debilitating. His therapist suggests that he should keep a log of these night terrors; as Tyler is a talented artist, he also says that perhaps drawing what he sees is a good idea. Yet the nightmares and sleep deprivation persist, until things take a very dark turn.

The aforementioned use of differing techniques and points of view is very well done in this issue; not only that, but Tyler’s struggle to keep himself together, not to mention functioning in his day to day life, is gripping and well told.

When events take a gory turn, it’s shocking; the use of colour selling the horror brilliantly. The writing is superb from the opening panels too; we’re immediately drawn in to Tyler’s sad, desperate situation from the start.

Though the story ends fairly abruptly – and, due to the various layers of reality and dreams blurring in Tyler’s mind, with the possibility that things aren’t necessarily as clear cut as they seem – it sets up a very intriguing situation should the story continue.

It’s well worth checking out; in fact, the Kickstarter launch for this first issue is due soon – and you can sign up to be notified when it’s live here.

Many thanks to Anthony Stokes for providing me with a copy of Intrusive Thoughts #1 for review purposes.