IDW's Fallen Angel: Reborn continues the adventures of Liandra, the fallen angel of the title, under the guidance of co-creator/writer Peter David and artist J.K. Woodard, who shepherded the series through most of its previous 33-issue run. To help ring in the book’s return, Joss Whedon’s fan-favourite character, Illyria, leaps from the pages of Angel to guest star in this four-part tale that kicks off in July.
“Fallen Angel has been an important part of our last five years, and it’s great to revive the book as IDW starts our second decade of existence,” said IDW’s Publisher/Editor-in-Chief, Chris Ryall. “Peter and J.K. really produced something special before and we’re happy to have them back for this next go-round.”
When last seen, the Fallen Angel experienced the closest she’s ever been to a happy ending. But as fans know, nothing comes easily for her, especially now that Illyria has entered the scene. The Reborn story is set during the fifth season of the “Angel” television show, shortly after the former ancient demon, Illyria, has been severely depowered by Angel and company. And that depowerment is a major plot point for this four-part series.
“When Peter and I approached Joss [Whedon] about using Illyria for this storyline, he was gracious enough to accept,” added Ryall. “This is a story Peter has wanted to tell for years, and now he’ll finally get his chance, with the fans the beneficiaries.”
In addition to interior art, Woodward will be providing covers for the series, along with variant cover artist Nick Runge. Angel: After the Fall artist Franco Urru also contributed a special cover for issue one.
“This is the first time that one of Joss’s characters has appeared outside of the ‘Whedon-verse,’ and I’m pleased that he and the folks at Mutant Enemy have trusted us to do right by her,” David said. “To that end, I’ve worked hard to make the book as accessible as possible to all readers. If this series will be your first exposure to the world of the Fallen Angel, no problem: Illyria is likewise a newcomer to Bête Noire, the Fallen Angel’s home, so you’ll be experiencing it right along with her. On the other hand, if you’re unfamiliar with Illyria, we bring you up to speed with a sort of ‘Lord of the Rings’ prologue opening, which features some of the best work that J.K. has ever done. So either way, you’re covered.”
Fallen Angel: Reborn #1 will be available in stores in July 2009. It is currently available for pre-order through Diamond (order code MAY09 0919).
Fallen Angel: Reborn #2 will be available in stores in August 2009.
