Rat Queens #16 (Image Comics 2016)

Rat Queens #16 (Image Comics, 2016) launches the new story arc “When Beards Collide” Part 1, delivering the sharp wit, brutal action, and bold female-led fantasy that fans crave. The Rat Queens return to Palisade to find a world that’s moved on without them, and the tavern scene—once a battleground for their legends—now teems with would‑be heroes, heavy drinking, and rough-and-tumble brawls. It’s chaos with a side of humor, and it’s exactly the kind of trouble only this crew can stir up.

What sets this issue apart in a crowded field of fantasy comics is the seamless blend of razor‑sharp storytelling and striking visual craft. Kurtis J. Wiebe’s plotting pairs with Tess Fowler’s kinetic pencils and Tamra Bonvillain’s vibrant colors to create a page‑turner that feels fresh yet unmistakably Rat Queens. The result is a mature, action‑driven issue that doesn’t shy away from the consequences of its fists, magic, and loyalty—making it a standout choice for collectors and new readers alike.

• New arc, bold setup: Part 1 of “When Beards Collide” sets the stakes high and the banter even higher, inviting readers into a world where every tavern chair could become a stage for a skirmish or a clever plan.
• Top-tier creative team: Kurtis J. Wiebe writes with punchy dialogue and heartfelt character moments, while Tess Fowler’s dynamic, expressive art and Tamra Bonvillain’s rich color work together to bring Palisade to life.
• Fully colored, page‑turning artistry: 28 pages of full color storytelling that balances character-driven humor with high‑impact fantasy action.
• For mature readers who crave depth with their fights: Rated M, the issue blends sharp humor with grown‑up themes and consequences, appealing to readers looking for a more textured fantasy experience.
• Ideal for collectors and fans of urban fantasy: A must‑have installment in a popular ongoing series for those who love strong heroines, clever banter, and vivid, kick‑ass adventures.

Who should read it? Fans of kick‑ass fantasy heroines, witty across‑the‑board banter, and stories where character chemistry drives the plot will find Rat Queens #16 irresistible. It’s perfect for someone building a Palisade collection, a reader who wants a story that blends humor with hard‑hitting action, or anyone following Kurtis J. Wiebe’s distinctive voice and the bold artistry of Fowler and Bonvillain.

In a marketplace of fantasy titles, this issue stands out by delivering a complete experience in a single sitting: tight pacing, memorable character moments, and a setup that promises big payoff as the arc unfolds. If you’re seeking a comic that treats its heroines with respect, serves up clever dialogue, and animates a tavern‑rooted world with personality, Rat Queens #16 is the obvious pick.

Details: 28 pages, full color. Cover price $3.99. Rated M.