Most people had a trusted confidant when they were younger, often of the stuffed animal variety. What if that longtime friend really spoke to you and helped you solve crimes? Intrigued? You should be.
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Spencer & Locke has been described as Calvin and Hobbes for adults, and that description couldn’t be more spot-on. The book follows a detective named Locke, who solves case alongside his partner Spencer. The interesting part is that Spencer is a talking blue panther that Locke carries around.
You know that because in certain shots he’s holding him in his hand, but in others, Spencer appears in full form. What’s different about this take is it sidesteps what would normally be the focus, which is if Locke is certifiable or if Spencer really does come to life when he’s talking to Locke. The book more accepts this as fact, that it just is, and addresses it head one in the early going.
That leaves the reader free to invest in the murder mystery at play, and the book is stronger for it.
On the art side of things, Jorge Santiago blends his stylized art style with more realistic surroundings. When depicting Locke’s past, the book goes into full Calvin & Hobbes mode, with the cartoon visuals of Bill Waterson certainly acting as inspiration for these moments. The big difference, of course, is that these moments are often quite heavy despite the delightful visuals, and the entire book makes no bones about the fact that it’s specifically aimed at adults.
Spencer & Locke deals with some adult themes, but it does it with a wink and a nod and delivers something truly unique. If you’re a fan of procedurals but want a little crazy with your Law & Order, Spencer & Locke might just be the thing for you.
Rating 4 out of 5 Stars.
Written By: David Pepose
Art By: Jorge Santiago
Colors By: Jasen Smith
Letters By: Colin Bell
Spencer & Locke #1 will hit stores this April.
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