Redcoat #17 Review – Simon’s Trust Is Put To The Test

Redcoat #17 (Image Comics, 4/15/26): Simon Pure is forced to make a deadly choice: whether to believe Benedict Arnold is trying to turn over a new leaf, or whether he has a nefarious plan that will destroy them all. The issue is packed with moral complexity and doubt that keeps you hooked. Verdict: This is a solid issue in the series despite the long hiatus.

• Writer: Geoff Johns
• Artist: Bryan Hitch, Andrew Currie
• Colorist: Brad Anderson
• Letterer: Rob Leigh
• Cover Artist: Bryan Hitch, Brad Anderson (cover A)
• Publisher: Image Comics
• Release Date: April 15, 2026
• Comic Rating: Teen
• Cover Price: $3.99
• Page Count: 36
• Format: Single Issue

Covers:

Analysis of Redcoat #17:

First Impressions:

Redcoat #17 is quite a fun and enjoyable story. Geoff Johns knows how to hook the reader and keep them strung along, even when it seems like not a lot is happening. The art from Bryan Hitch, of course, is fantastic, and the intrigue of what’s about to happen next keeps you turning the pages. That said, as a side note, Ghost Machine’s biggest problem right now is its inconsistency in releasing books on a regular schedule and its lack of marketing. I had to go back and research what happened in the previous issue, and that’s not a good thing.

Recap:

In Redcoat #16, which came out all the way back in January, Simon Pure was enjoying family life—married with two kids and working as a simple tailor in a local town. His idyllic life took a massive turn when Benedict Arnold—whom he believed was either entombed in the bay or gone for good—returned, claiming he wanted to turn over a new leaf and make amends for his past misdeeds. The issue ended with Simon’s longtime friend, Albert Einstein, showing up with a warning.

Plot Analysis (SPOILERS):

The issue begins with Albert giving Simon a stern lecture, warning him that Benedict Arnold cannot be trusted. Arnold attempts to placate Albert’s concerns, arguing that if he truly meant harm, he would have acted already. He insists he is trying to make amends. As part of that “apology tour,” Arnold offers Simon, Albert, and their families the chance at immortality—so they can live together forever without aging. Albert pulls Simon aside and warns him not to trust Arnold under any circumstances. Simon agrees, but the two decide to keep an eye on Arnold and play along until they can determine his true intentions.

Arnold then takes them on a scavenger hunt to uncover information hidden by Paul Revere—the secret to recreating the immortality ritual. This leads them to a secret underground lair constructed by Revere, who anticipated his death and wanted no part in immortality. Just as they get close to uncovering the truth, the trio is attacked.

How is the story in Redcoat #17?

Without stating the obvious, Geoff Johns is one of the best comic book writers still working today. Even though he’s largely stepped away from DC and does very little with Marvel, he still knows how to craft compelling storytelling. His greatest strength is his ability to keep readers turning pages. If a writer can’t keep you engaged, they’re not worth your time—and that’s never a problem here.

Johns gives Simon Pure a compelling moral dilemma: can Benedict Arnold truly be redeemed? That tension drives the story. Even with very little action—aside from the final page—the narrative pulls you in and keeps you hooked, which is exactly what you want from a periodical comic. It’s just a shame Ghost Machine can’t release these books on a consistent schedule.

How is the art in Redcoat #17?

Bryan Hitch is phenomenal. There’s very little more that needs to be said. Ghost Machine has assembled an impressive roster of top-tier artistic talent, and Hitch is near the top of that list. The detail is immaculate. The cinematic quality of the environments is outstanding. The emotional expressions of Simon, Albert, and Benedict are perfectly rendered, conveying personality and tension through the art alone.

Hitch’s work is further elevated by Andrew Currie’s inks and Brad Anderson’s colors. Much of the story takes place at night or during twilight, and the warm golden hues of sunsets bleed through the pages, creating a grounded, cinematic atmosphere. The darker sequences—particularly in the underground caverns and nighttime streets—feel immersive and tangible, adding weight to every scene.

Characters

Simon Pure is the focal point of this issue, as expected. However, Albert Einstein and Benedict Arnold function almost as equal co-leads, giving the story an ensemble feel. Albert’s unwavering skepticism toward Arnold is both logical and compelling. Meanwhile, Arnold’s smarmy, arrogant personality seeps through even when he says all the right things, making his supposed redemption difficult to believe. The tension is driven almost entirely through dialogue and personality, and that character work is excellent.

Originality & Concept Execution

At its core, this story revolves around Simon trying to determine whether Benedict Arnold is telling the truth—a premise that is inherently compelling. Does it feel original? Yes. The concept of the series feels fresh, and the idea that Arnold might be seeking redemption is an unexpected twist. What separates this comic from other historical fiction stories is that it doesn’t just reinterpret events—it suggests that history itself was never what we believed it to be. That added layer makes the premise even more engaging.

Pros and Cons

What We Loved

• Bryan Hitch’s art, combined with Brad Anderson’s colors, is outstanding.
• Geoff Johns delivers an engaging, character-driven story despite minimal action.
• The reimagining of historical fiction adds a fresh and intriguing twist.

Room for Improvement

• Ghost Machine’s inconsistent publishing schedule is frustrating.
• Johns includes numerous Easter eggs referencing events and characters that haven’t yet been introduced, which may confuse some readers.

Art Samples:

The Scorecard:

Writing Quality (Clarity & Pacing): 3.5/4
Art Quality (Execution & Synergy): 4/4
Value (Originality & Entertainment): 2/2

Final Thoughts:

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Redcoat #17 is a strong addition to the series. Despite its uneven release schedule, the story is gaining momentum and evolving into a compelling, full-fledged adventure. The moral dilemma placed on Simon—caught between Einstein and Benedict Arnold—is unexpected but works perfectly within the narrative. Combined with Bryan Hitch’s top-tier artwork, this issue delivers a high-quality reading experience and leaves you eager for what comes next.

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