This reinterpretation is a revelation, as it is both fun and has enough of a foot within the original story to be recognizable, which makes this a solid series thus far. The story by Mairghread Scott is very well researched in Celtic mythology and delivers a concise narrative. The art by Kelly and Nichole Matthews is vibrant, as their character designs especially when it comes to Smertae, Riata, and Cait, shows their attention to detail, as this detail also lends itself to the beautiful backgrounds. Overall, an excellent story, which although I know what will ultimately happen, it still will be exciting to read what happens next. Read Full Review

Magic is shown to have a much stronger presence than previously known in the Bard's iconic tragedy. The story is smart and the visuals outstanding. Using my magical abilities, I can see that this will be a highly enjoyable series and should be read by anyone who enjoys a classical supernatural tale with just a pinch of Shakespeare tossed in. Recommended. Read Full Review

Toil and Trouble possesses a few of the problems you'd expect of a first creator-owned work, but it also brings the youthful energy of a new writer to bear and demonstrates a restraint and fullness that you might expect of an industry staple. Stepping into the world of Shakespearean tragedy is no small feat, but Mairghread Scott and the Matthews sisters prove more than up to the task, delivering a modernized Alba with their unique perspective present in every stone, tree, and spirit. The art is lovely and the questions of the narrative thoughtful. Lovers of Shakespeare, feminism, magic and inventive retellings will all find something to love here. Some questions don't have answers yet, but Toil and Trouble proves a promising debut and a fascinating read. Read Full Review

Toil and Trouble is a book with great potential, both as a reimagining and as a story that could stand apart from its source material. How far it will eventually stray from the original is yet to be seen but Shakespeare purists need not be disheartened by its liberal interpretation because what is lost from the original text is made up for with beautiful art, strong writing and a captivating narrative. Read Full Review

However, the issue is always, always lovely. The sweeping colors and mythic touches make "Toil and Trouble" #1 a true pleasure to look at, and Scott's script takes the coolest part of "Macbeth" and builds it into a layered, exciting new story. Given Shakespeare's own propensity for just taking the cool stuff and writing a new play, I think he'd be pleased. Read Full Review

Scott takes on an ambitious tale, having roots with one of the most famous tragedies in history. What starts off a little slow picks up midway and really leaves the reader wanting more by the end of it. Read Full Review

Coming from someone who doesn't read a lot of fiction in this vein, I still found something delightful about this introductory issue. This is a world where a lot is possible, both in terms of subject matter and story-telling devices. Scott, Matthews, and Matthews are clearly a capable creative team, and I've no doubt that this story is something many will find enjoyable, right down to its final page. Read Full Review

Toil and Trouble is only going to last another five issues, and it looks like this will be a solid short story. Read Full Review

Overall, this issue is a great introduction and start to the series. Scott takes us right into the action, and we even get to see battle! From what I can tell, this is a very promising series—and not just because it’s based off of a world-famous play. Read Full Review

Ultimately, Toil and Trouble is a story that has enormous potential. Scott has done an amazing job in creating a world full of many different kinds of people: all three of the witches are completely distinct from one another and, even though we don't know too much about them, there's a lot of room for Scott to maneuver and create great character-driven tension. The last page of the first issue ties directly into the beginning of Macbeth, so the next issues are bound to make us feel more invested to the story as Macbeth deals with the ramifications of Smertae's actions. Read Full Review

Revisiting old works of fiction to add a new twist or view can be entertaining. The creators of Toil and Trouble look to do more than have a bit of fun in an old world. After the first issue, they are certainly on their way to adding a completely new and well-crafted part to a classic piece of literature. Read Full Review

Lacking in character but excelling in visuals and atmosphere, there's work to be done but it's a promising start to the series. Read Full Review