Review – Normandy Gold #1 (Titan Comics)

Publisher: Titan Comics
Writer(s): Megan Abbott and Alison Gaylin
Artist: Steve Scott
Release Date: 14th June 2017

Often in my reviews I find myself denouncing the unwarranted and frequently uncalled for over-sexualisation of characters. However, with Normandy Gold we have a book that not only over-sexualises, but does so in such a way that it feels utterly appropriate.

The book follows police officer Normandy Gold as she goes off the grid to try and catch her sister’s murderer. The story appears to be set in the 60s or 70s so she finds herself having to contend with the attitudes towards woman at that time. It probably doesn’t help that she is also a bit of a bad-ass who doesn’t take any crap and seems to be leaning towards being something of anti-hero. She actually feels at times to be a cross between The Punisher and Wonder Woman.

We learn a bit about her tough-but-fair upbringing by a police sheriff and how that experience has helped to shaped her as an adult. We also find out that her sister has become a high calibre prostitute in Washington DC, and when she is killed Normandy heads to DC, clashes with police and ends up going deep undercover.

As with most first issues the majority the book is used to introduce us to the characters and situation. This a rare book in that it manages the first issue ‘story pacing vs exhibition’ balancing act very well and as such makes for an easy, enjoyable read.

The nudity in the book is every bit as graphic as is the violence but it never feels gratuitous or over the top. Instead, these moments flow well into the story and add gravity, danger and vulnerability to the scenes. It reminds me of the 90s extreme style but with none of the excessiveness or cheese.

If you are looking for a gritty, hard-edged story you can’t go wrong with Normandy Gold. It is definitely not one for the kids, though.

Rating: 4/5.

PREVIEW ARTWORK
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