One of the taglines for Wraith of Love is “Action, jacked up on estrogen.” It’s a gritty, female-driven action comic, that’s all about empowerment, rather than objectification. It’s also a pretty fun read.

Jameson “James” Mercer is a woman trapped in an emotionally and physically abusive relationship—trapped by love, or some sick facsimile of it. Then, one night, after being badly beaten by her husband Ethan, she’s driven to suicide. Ultimately revived, she finds herself in possession of a glowing red pendant—and an intense, new calling for her new life.

The pendant allows her to see visions of women who are in danger from the men they love. The calling is to help these women by any means necessary. Formerly a meek, unassuming housewife, James quickly acquires a rough and jaded, no-nonsense demeanor with both the desire and the means to defend herself and others from the threats they’ve previously lived in fear of.

It’s a bit jarring and somewhat uncomfortable to see such a frank and honest portrayal of abuse, and the reactions not only of the victim, but of those around her. It’s also something that needs to be shown, though, and a subject that doesn’t get talked about as much as it should be.

And, it’s not all jarring and uncomfortable. There’s also some pretty good action in this comic, not to mention a compelling story, and great artwork (both by Susan Lee). The art has a bit of a stylized, noirish feel to it, done in stark black and white—except for the pendant, which glows red. All-in-all, this is a good beginning to what promises to be a pretty intense ride. Looking forward to seeing what happens next.

Wraith of Love: Volume 1 is available online from DriveThru Comics. You can also visit their website, “Like” them on Facebook, and “Follow” them on Twitter.