Bumpy Oak Books

**I was provided an electronic ARC from the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for honest review.**

5 stars

Artifact One is a collaborative effort between writers JT Krul and Vince Hernandez along with artist Romina Moranelli. What readers receive is an introduction to a science fiction story following Remi, a Terrillian female, who is an explorer and relic hunter trying to understand the world around her. There is a ruling cleric class strong religious opposition to alchemy and the associated endeavors in discovery.

Moranelli’s artwork is absolutely stunning. She manages to develop species for these space worlds that are decidedly new and different while still being familiar enough to be visually relatable. We can see this especially in Remi herself. Even as so much detail goes into the characters and creatures, no aspect of the background has been neglected. In fact, I want prints of these worlds to put on my walls. Everything is so developed and Moranelli’s use of color is absolutely masterful.

While Moranelli brings the world to life visually, Krul and Hernandez were certainly not slacking. They have entire cultural developments, down to religious practices, various gods, various tools and weaponry, and so much more. It seems apparent that even some of the “smaller” characters have back stories created. This volume is an introductory volume, of course, so the purpose does appear to be world-building, but there is a glimmer of plot toward the end that I am so very excited about.

I really couldn’t ask for more from an introductory volume, and will be eagerly awaiting the next installment from this team.