Comic Book Review: Past Time #1

By Nolan P. Smith  

Editor, Pastrami Nation  

Baseball may be America’s pastime, but in Past Time #1, it’s also a backdrop for mystery and murder. Mad Cave Studios delivers a gripping debut that blends sports, noir, and horror into a compelling narrative.  

Written by Joe Harris, with art by Russell Olson, lettering by Carlos M. Mangual, colors by Juan D. Posada, and design by Tim Daniel, the story unfolds in 1988 Chicago. On a rainy night, investigator Jack walks into a bar to speak with Ronald—a blind man who has witnessed more than most. Ronald recounts a chilling tale from the barnstorming days of baseball, where games were played under the cover of darkness. At its center is Henry Hayes, a ballplayer with a violent past and a secret that lurks beneath the surface. When Henry intervenes to save Ronald from a brutal beating, their fates become intertwined in a way neither could have foreseen.  

This first issue is a home run for fans of both baseball and horror. Harris masterfully crafts an eerie atmosphere, pulling readers into a world where the sport’s golden age is tinged with darkness. Olson’s artwork enhances the mood, embracing a gritty, shadow-heavy style that complements the ominous tone. From the cover to the final page, Past Time #1 grips you with its suspense and mystery.  

I’m fully on board for the next installment—this series has the makings of something truly special.  

Rating: FOUR Pastrami Nations out of FIVE.