Alma #1 by Die Bold Comics - Comic Review

What if Buffy was a 72-year-old Grandmother?

When I put down Alma #1, the first thing I did was reach for my phone to message Saurabh, the founder of comix.one. Just a day earlier, he had sent over a box full of indie comics for a giveaway we’re planning. Since I’ve read some Die Bold Comics before, I figured I’d start with something familiar.

I texted, “Just read Alma. I loved his previous stuff, but this takes it to another level.”
Saurabh replied, “I know, Alma is such a powerhouse comic!”

I read Alma in my bed. I don’t usually do that (lying to sound cool) since I have a room I have all my comics laid out carefully and thoroughly prepared for reading (half of the room is basically unwalkable since I have about 200 issues on my floor trying to put them in boxes that are also spread around the room).

I’m writing this shortly after chatting with Saurabh. I already admitted that I’m tempted to keep this one for myself instead of including it in the giveaway. But I’ll do the right thing and let it go, even if it hurts a little.

So, why all this fuss about Alma?

Honestly, I was intrigued the moment I heard the tagline: What if Buffy was a 72-year-old grandmother?
That’s my kind of story.

If you’ve read a review or two from me before, you’ll know I like weaving personal anecdotes into them. It makes the review feel more alive and helps me enjoy the process of writing it even more.

I’m especially glad that the copy I received is the Special Edition, which includes not just the first 20+ page issue, but also bonus material that dives into the story’s background and the creator’s inspiration. That additional context made the entire experience even more impactful.

Story

As the title suggests, Alma is a 72-year-old Champion, chosen to rid the world of monsters. She’s not alone, though. Each Champion has a companion, a guide who carries their memories even after their death and reincarnation. Their job is to bring the new Champion up to speed and help them survive what’s to come.

Here’s the twist: never before has a Champion been chosen past their teenage years.

John Holland, the creator behind Die Bold Comics, based Alma on an offhand comment in a Facebook group. What started as a fun idea became something deeper when he tied the story to his late mother, who shares the name of the protagonist.

John is clear about it—“The Alma in the comic is not my Mom. As far as I know, she never battled monsters.”
Still, every page feels like a tribute. Whether intentional or not, it reads like a story written with love. And that makes all the difference.

Art

Hernan Gonzalez absolutely nails the tone of Alma. The art walks that fine line between grounded and supernatural in a way that feels both gritty and deeply human. Every panel is crystal clear, even during chaotic moments filled with snarling monsters and canes smashing heads. There’s no confusion—just impact.

Take the shark reveal, for example. That panel alone deserves its own slow clap. Or Alma swinging her cane like she’s channelling Thor mid-battle. It’s over-the-top in the best way, and somehow still emotional. You feel the weight of her age, but also the fire that drives her.

It’s rare to see horror, comedy, and genuine heart drawn so cohesively on the same page, but this book pulls it off.

Also worth calling out is the lettering by Leo McGovern. From growls to whispered lines to heavy-hitting dialogue, the lettering adds a rhythm that fits the tone perfectly. It guides the pacing without ever distracting from the action—and in scenes filled with chaos, that clarity makes a big difference.

Extras

Along with the first issue is an 8-page special that connects the story between the first issue and the second, that introduces Frank, Alma’s late husband (named after John’s dad).

But here’s the kicker. There are recipes. There are actual recipes in the book that John’s mom had written on index cards, and I am telling you now, I am trying some of them as soon as tomorrow. Especially that Eggs & Ham.

Final Thoughts

Alma is the kind of comic that surprises you—not just with monster sharks and undead butlers, but with how much heart it packs into every page. It’s sharp, funny, and filled with genuine emotion. You come for the wild premise (Buffy as a grandma? Yes, please) but stay because it hits something real.

John Holland, Hernan Gonzalez and Leo McGovern have created something that feels both deeply personal and totally badass. If this is what Die Bold Comics is putting out, I’ll be first in line for whatever comes next.

Now, excuse me while I put Alma back into the giveaway box… and immediately regret it.