by Gordon Rennie and Tiernen Trevallion

2000 AD, out now

Meet DI Harry Absalom: one part Jack Regan, one part Gene Hunt, all parts total bastard. Only when strictly necessary…

If the idea of an occult version of Life on Mars appeals (and let’s be honest, if you’re reading this website, chances are it will), then you’re going to love Gordon Rennie and Tiernen Trevallion’s new strip Absalom. It had me hooked from the third page and the line, “With all disrespect sir, you don’t send for me when there’s been ‘an incident’. You only bring me in when something bloody foul and awful has happened.”

Of course there’s far more to Harry Absalom than just putting the boot in where necessary. As the strips in this compilation show, he’s got a complicated backstory (just when was he born?) and an incredibly pragmatic streak when he needs it. He’s surrounded by a loyal team, including newbie Detective Sergeant Jemima Hopkins, who, true to the spirit of such stories, has secrets of her own which have yet to be revealed.

Trevallion’s art creates a very distinct version of London and the surrounding counties – some of the character studies are reminiscent of Mike McMahon’s Cybermen strip in Doctor Who Monthly many years ago.

Verdict: With conspiracies, demons and possibly a traitor within his own ranks, Harry Absalom has a load to deal with – and you’ll enjoy accompanying him to the station.  8/10

Paul Simpson

Click here to order Absalom: Ghosts of London from Amazon.co.uk

Leave a comment