Torchwood Archives Volume 1

Ianto, Gwen, and Jack take center stage in this compilation of short stories and graphic tales involving the dark, sexy sibling of the Whoniverse, Torchwood. From alien conspiracies and time-travel murders to alien drugs and a self-fulfilling prophecy, these strange tales are sure to challenge you as much as they entertain you.

Honestly, the three short stories at the end of the collection outperformed the illustrated stories that preceded them. Although the artwork of the earlier tales is gorgeous — particularly so in “The Selkie” — the written stories were more dynamic, engaging, and altogether felt more like Torchwood. Plus Gwen really gets to shine in several of them, and she’s always been an underutilized character.

For the most part, the illustrated pieces feel rushed, particularly Ianto’s tale where he crosses paths with John Hart and is warned about a threat from across time itself. I read it twice through and still feel like it simply doesn’t resonate as strongly as it could. It feels too timey-wimey for Torchwood.

But if you’re looking for something altogether weirder than Doctor Who, try your luck with Torchwood Archives.