The Butcher of Paris #4
Dark Horse Comics
Written by Stephanie Phillips
Art by Dean Kotz
Colors by Jason Wordie
Letters by Troy Peteri
The Rundown: In the aftermath of the occupation, Detective Massu tries a desperate gamble to flush out the elusive serial killer.
It is the liberation of France and the streets are filled with tanks, soldiers and destruction as the French fight back to save their city. In the aftermath, Massu must deal with the fact that his case is still open and his best suspect is still on the loose. To make matters worse, the detective finds another connection to the killer through another victim.
At the same time, Jodkum finds himself in the hands of the French Resistance who want names from the Nazi and they are not above using tactics the SS officer is keenly familiar with to get them. Unfortunately for Massu and the investigation, Jodkum can’t resist giving one last twist of the knife to the officer who opposed him. But how many more will meet the Butcher of Paris in the meantime?
The Story: There is a huge and dramatic twist in this issue that hit me emotionally as I witnessed this story unfold. Stephanie Phillips does an amazing job of taking the reader on an emotional journey and then delivering something truly unexpected. The plot moves beautifully and the there is such great tension throughout it that keeps the reader on the edge of his or her seat. I loved how this story was laid out and as the issue drew to a close, I clamored to read what happens next.
The Art: Dean Kotz offers thrilling art throughout this issue. Every page is filled with beautiful details and I was immersed in the opening sequence for its action and thrills as well as the quiet, menacing build up to the closing panels.