Possible triggers (including, but not limited to violence, cults, magic)
I have no clue what the publisher description means: In partnership with Devolver Digital and Massive Monster, Oni Press proudly presents Cult of the Lamb: The First Verse-the hugely anticipated first graphic novel exploration into the sprawling cosmology of the millions-selling, multiple BAFTA Award-nominated video game phenomenon that has Polygon begging players to “smash that worship button”!
That’s good….. Right? 
There is more with: ANIMAL CROSSING MEETS HADES: This is Animal Crossing with sex and violence (but don’t worry, we keep it PG-13!) in a deliciously evil and deceivingly cute video game-inspired comic.
And that’s what I’ll give you about Cult of the Lamb Vol. 1: The First Verse publisher commentary. My comments are that it is a thriller/horror book. I did not realize it was as much horror as it was. I guess I should have realized the cover meant business (it is red, dark, but there is that cute lamb… ) and the word Cult should have been a clue, but hey that could be funny right?
Okay, seriously though, it is a thriller and yes, it is about cults. And yet, there is an element of trying to have redemption as well. The idea of Lamb (they/them) trying to get revenge for their death by the Old Faith/old regime is not new, but it isn’t completely dull and obvious, there are a few twists and turns. However, regardless of what I like about this several chapter graphic novel, it is a horror/thriller/fantasy adventure and there is death, sacrifices,
limbs/parts chopped off, and blood. Alex Paknadel has an interesting idea of what passes for PG-13 text (so far the language has been okay, and the story arc itself is mostly friendly, not too much edge). But it is that illustrator Troy Little (and Crank! and Nick Filardi the letterer and colorist) that decided to push the PG-13 rating. Like I said, there is blood. Lots of blood. 
And spooky monsters. And a one- eyed-sideways-rat-like creature. Not to mention teeth (what the heck is up with spiky teeth on characters? Okay, “scary monster,” but trust me, I get it. I don’t need them dagger-teeth!)
The story arc (worship, change, revenge, religious themes, all that good stuff) is okay. I’m not jumping up and down saying it is the best thing/best story, but I like where it is heading. Each chapter ends with a “dun dun dun” to be continued/same Bat-time; same Bat-channel feature. The characters may not be as fleshed out as readers would want, but they are not lacking. I haven’t finished yet (I still have chapter four to go), but I think I see where a few plot points are heading, but I’m hoping not, as I like the character, but then again, Jesus loved Judas.
Due early December 2024; read via an online reader copy.