Welcome to the gripping world of Crowded Volume 1, a fascinating graphic novel published by Image Comics. Set just ten minutes in the future, this story immerses readers in a society where the economy thrives on job shares and innovative apps. In this dystopian landscape, crowdfunding has taken a dark turn, evolving into a platform known as Reapr. This app allows users to fund assassinations, offering a chilling glimpse into a world where murder can be a commodity traded for profit.

In this volatile environment, even the most mundane life can take a deadly twist. Meet Charlie Ellison, a woman who has thus far led a quiet and unremarkable existence. However, her life is upended when she discovers that a Reapr campaign has been launched against her, placing a staggering one million dollars on her head. Suddenly, she finds herself the target of assassins and bounty hunters, all eager to claim the reward.

Faced with imminent danger, Charlie must take drastic measures to protect herself. She enlists the help of Vita, the lowest-rated bodyguard on the Dfend app. While Vita may not have the best reputation, she is determined to keep Charlie alive. Together, they navigate the treacherous waters of Los Angeles, where every corner holds potential threats from incompetent civilians to aspiring assassins, all eager to cash in on the bounty.

The clock is ticking—Charlie and Vita have just thirty days to uncover the identity of those who want Charlie dead, and more importantly, to understand the reasons behind this deadly campaign. As the tension escalates, readers will be on the edge of their seats, eagerly anticipating each twist and turn in this thrilling narrative.

This volume collects the first arc of the series, crafted by the talented Eisner-nominated writer Christopher Sebela, known for his work on Shanghai Red, We(l)come Back, and Heartthrob. The artwork is brought to life by the dynamic duo Ro Stein and Ted Brandt, who have previously illustrated Captain Marvel: Raven the Pirate Princess. The coloring is handled by the skilled Triona Farrell, recognized for her contributions to Runaways and Mech Cadet Yu, while Cardinal Rae lends her talents known from Bingo Love and Rose.

This graphic novel is not just a story; it’s a reflection on the dark potential of technology and the human condition. As you read through each page, you will encounter themes of trust, survival, and the impact of social media on our lives. With engaging dialogue and captivating illustrations, Crowded Volume 1 promises to be a thrilling ride that will leave you questioning the morality of a world where life and death are up for sale.

Join Charlie and Vita as they embark on a journey filled with danger, intrigue, and unexpected allies. Will they be able to uncover the truth and survive the deadly game of Reapr? Grab your copy of Crowded Volume 1 and dive into this adrenaline-fueled adventure today!