Comic Book Review: Harker #1 & #2

Harker #1

When a mutilated body is discovered on the steps of a Hawksmoor church in Bloomsbury, the crime appears to have all the hallmarks of a gotshic murder from London’s Victorian past. The game, as they say, is afoot!

Harker #2

The hunt for the murderer continues, as Critchley hunts Satanists in dusty old bookshops, while Harker is convinced there's a more prosaic explanation. Neither is ready for the bloody horror that awaits them!

Written by: Roger Gibson
Art by: Vince Danks
Published by: Ariel Press

Characters

Harker
Critchley



All the best police dramas feature partners very different from each other who still get along and pool their talents to win the day. That's what we have with Harker and Critchley. Chief Inspector Harker is the aloof detective, someone with whom it is hard to get along. His mind is always assessing a situation and his scepticism keeps him questioning...even his partner. But in contrast, the friendly, hip Detective Sergeant Critchley's smooth style helps in dealing with suspects. The bizarre pair makes for an interesting partnership that you enjoy to read.


Character Rating: 1 Worm


Story


A man's been brutally murdered on the steps of a church and Harker and Critchley are called in to investigate. The two detectives have very little to go on except the victim's identity and a book thread from an ancient book. The two first question the dead man's known associates, and when that turns up little information, Critchley insists they should follow the book thread clue. Harker, sceptical as ever, follows Critchley on what he feels is a wild goose chase trying to track down an old magick book.

Who's right? Is it a simple murder or a Satanic, ritualistic sacrifice?

It's a story that keeps you thinking alongside the detectives. What's being said that might come back later and prove important? What's being overlooked as unimportant? Is the book thread a clue or a red herring? That's a good detective story...one that draws you in, deputizes you, and sends you on the trail of the killer along with the protagonists.


Story Rating: 2 Worms. When you can't wait to see what comes next, it's a good story.

Art


The art is simple, in contrast to the story's complex mystery. The stark images are eye-catching. The characters look real. This is good work. But don't think simple means lacking detail, because Danks architecture and autos and everything look equally realistic.



Art Rating: 2 Worms.
Overall Rating: 5 Worms. An excellent read. Strongly recommended to fans of TV cop dramas, or Paul Grist's Kane. Witty dialogue, captivating story, and wonderful art. You can't miss.



Available At: The Ariel Press Store for a mere $2.99.