REVIEW: 'Deer Editor' #1 by Ryan K. Lindsay, Sami Kivelä, and Lauren Affe

 

DEER EDITOR #1

Writer: Ryan K. Lindsay

Artist: Sami Kivelä

Colorist: Lauren Affe

Letterer: Jim Campbell

Cover Price: $4.99

Publisher: Mad Cave Studios

Publication Date: January 10, 2024

Synopsis: A John Doe slaying lures a journalist into a world of political intrigue, a wi-fi-enabled grotto, and a station locker full of secrets. For Bucky, an editor of the crime beat at “The Truth,” it’s all in a day’s work…

…but he also happens to be a deer.

Will he chase down his last story in this antler noir series? Deer Editor is perfect for fans of Blacksad and Chinatown.

Score:

★★★★☆ (4/5)

QUICK REVIEW: There is no rhyme or reason that the protagonist of 'Deer Editor' is an actual anthropomorphic deer appropriately named Bucky, the only one seemingly living among humans in a neo-noir world created by Ryan K. Lindsay, Sami Kivelä, and Lauren Affe. Nor does it matter because it appears perfectly normal as this investigative journalist finds himself in over his head (antlers?) as he probes a mysterious murder and unravels a dangerous conspiracy. Don't be fooled though, this is a fast-paced hard-boiled mystery as seriously enthralling as any Raymond Chandler novel. Lindsay nails the fast-talking melodramatic dialogue given to Bucky in his self-aware narration or in talking to tough guys. Humphrey Bogart with hooves, basically. Sami Kivelä' black and white designs with Lauren Affe's blue shading give the issue an appealing distinctive look while still offering a noirish atmosphere. 'Deer Editor' is an unexpected gem that offers an engaging murder mystery featuring an unlikely hero created with style and attitude like the best hard-boiled detective stories.