Written by Chip Zdarsky
Art by Jacob Phillips
Published by Image Comics
Imagine if you would like the world’s greatest hard-boiled detectives, Kojak, Baretta, Sam Spade, and Jim Rockford, to name a few.
We know these famous gumshoes because even though they sometimes operated on the margins of the law, they continuously operated within and for the law.
But what if these rogue heroes with hearts of gold instead used their charm, intelligence, and guile for the forces of evil?
That is the question Chip Zdarsky, and Jacob Philips deftly answer in Newburn.
Easton Newburn is an ex-cop who once believed in the truth and justice; now, he is a private detective without loyalties.
In his new role, Newburn investigates conflicts between rival crime factions. With his new assistant Emily, he follows murders, arsonists, and corrupt officials while trying to stay out of the crosshairs of the police and the mob.
In Newburn, Chip Zdarsky proves why he is one of the hottest names in the comic-book industry today. Zdarsky’s writing is sharp and crisp; the story moves quickly and is thrilling and engaging. Philip’s art captures the grit and grime of Newburn’s world yet somehow remains bright and colorful.
Without a doubt, Newburn is a masterpiece.
If Zdarsky and Phillips were to end this series with this first volume, I would be content.
However, I believe the adventures of Newburn and Emily deserve a few more volumes. I would love to see where this roller coaster ride ends!
5 out of 5 stars.
