Review: Queen in Black Thor Issue 1 Shows What Makes a Hero

Marvel has released a fresh one shot titled Queen in Black Thor, and it takes an interesting approach by focusing on characters who are not Thor at all. The story follows Beta Ray Bill and Sigurd Jarlsen as they navigate their own dangerous conflicts during the events of the Queen in Black crossover. It is a smart way to explore the theme of worthiness while the real God of Thunder is missing from the action.

The book is split into two distinct parts. Beta Ray Bill faces off against the God of War, Tyr, in an intense battle that captures the grand scale of Asgardian lore. Meanwhile, on Earth, the mortal Sigurd Jarlsen finds himself in a high stakes situation with the Goddess of Death, Hela. Seeing these two very different men deal with their respective threats highlights how much they both reflect the ideals we associate with Thor.

The art and coloring work together perfectly to define the contrast between these characters. Bill’s scenes are vibrant and powerful, fitting for a cosmic warrior, while Sigurd’s sequences lean into muted, grounded tones that emphasize his human status. This visual storytelling helps ground the wild, magical events of the crossover into something much more personal.

While some knowledge of the Mortal Thor series will help you appreciate the finer details of Sigurd's journey, the book stands on its own as a great character study. If you are a fan of Thor stories, this issue is a treat. It proves that heroism is not just about having divine power, but about the willingness to stand up for others when things get tough.