CAPITAL P: BOOK ONE / Script and Art by SAM GARDNER JR. / Art by JEREOME CANTY / Published by CAPEVERSE COMICS

A killer stalks the streets of Chicago, but the streets are not unprotected. A masked man with a “P” on his chest is on the case. Inspired by the comic book heroes of his youth, he has a trusty canine companion and a strong heart. But will that be enough to prevail over a cynical world?

It is rare that a comic surprises me, but Capital P: Book One managed that trick. This is not a typical superhero story. There are no powers on display, nor colorful costumes. Indeed, the general tone and aesthetic is closer to a Film Noir thriller than a four-color funny book.

Sam Gardner Jr. spins a stunning story, with a twist that sends this story in an unexpected direction. I will not spoil what that twist is, but it comes to define the story after an opening half that offers a grounded take on how a would-be vigilante might operate, using real forensics and a trained dog.

The artwork by Jerome Canty is rough, as befits the story. My only complaint is that some of the colors are a little dark. This makes some of the night sequences hard to follow, due to the thick inks and heavy line work.

Despite those minor art issues, Capital P: Book One is an interesting experiment. It is not afraid to tackle real issues or get dirty doing it. I look forward to seeing where the story goes from here.