The children of the Greek Gods are often legendary. Some however, are also Hybrid Bastards.
The Good
It is not often to find such a refreshing concept which is set outside of the "superhero" genre. Tom and Kate manage to deliver a complete story in only three issues while still packed with character, intrigue, and dark humor.
As for the first issue, Tom Pinchuk and Kate Glasheen bring us a great concept in the form of "alternate" title about the Greek gods in a modern setting. The Greek God Zeus is somewhat known for his promiscuity and his wife Hera for her jealousy and vindictive nature. Drawing from these roots, we find them in a modern day setting where Hera has enacted a scheme to punish Zeus via own lust. Being a God, Zeus is rather unnaturally fertile. With his power Zeus is able to impregnate anyone as well as, shall we say anything. This results in the titled "Hybrid Bastards" and the book takes off from there.
The art sets the tone of the book exquisitely, sometimes putting the reader at unease as if the universe itself is off-kilter. The full color really helps to cement the characters, not only through their distinct physical forms but also to ground them as real entities in a world which theoretically could be our own. Tom's writing lets his characters demonstrate their idiosyncratic personalities along with displaying their motivations. I found myself surprised how much I liked the characters as the series went on, perhaps as a testament to how well defined the characters are.
The Bad
While knowledge of Greek Mythology is not required, even ancillary background of the Greek gods involved greatly enhances the setting of the book.
The Verdict
Hybrid Bastards is an incredibly fun book filled with gorgeous art by Kate Glasheen which is complemented by sharp writing by Tom Pinchuk. The book is filled with fun allusions to Greek God history as well as evoking several forms of classic Greek imagery. The first issue does a great job at introducing the reader to the world in addition to the central characters. Not to mention they even manage to deliver action right before leaving you on the edge of your seat wanting to find out more.
If you're looking for a fun afternoon escapade, then I would heartily recommend Hybrid Bastards as a romp off the beaten path of tights and capes!
Here is my review of the second issue of Hybrid Bastards.
Link to the review of the third and final issue of Hybrid Bastards.
Note: Due to Comic Vine's review system I have to review each issue individually. However, my reviews are generally in context of the collected volume as a whole which contains issues 1-3. You can certainly pick up the individual issues (first issue is free on comixology) but the story arc is clearly meant to be enjoyed as a completed series. You can find the collected volume on amazon and Archaia.