One of those great hidden gem finds that I have encountered while scouring for comics has been this little Joe’s Comics title that is published by Image. Protectors Inc. has taken the best elements of classic superhero tales and old school film noir crime dramas with a tying of it all together with good old fashion corporate greed and the modern elements of the cult of personality. Written expertly by J. Michael Straczynski with similar expert precision art provided by Gordon Purcell, this title is one that you should be reading as you are missing out on a seriously good story. The pieces of the puzzle are starting to fall into place as Issue #8 plays out and our everyman tough guy Detective John Riley is getting hit by both good and bad… good being the affections of The Angel, an ultra-luminescent super… and bad by having a two ton car and dumpster thrown in his general direction with extreme prejudice. Riley is starting to get close to the truth. And whoever is involved in the murder of The Huntsman as well as a previously thought to be unrelated murder that becomes related here is obviously beginning to feel the heat. Let’s just hope that Detective Riley can keep his head (and person) intact as this one continues.

Straczynski continues to write this tale perfectly allowing a smooth and smoky pacing style that blends well with Purcell's introspective art of strong jawed men and soft toned, yet hardcore strong ladies. It absolutely kicks it because we see these strong exteriors with an almost vulnerable interior that is depicted through the various characters’ eyes. I am still impressed. It is deep and never gets old.

It seems that the endings of these issues are starting to be a time to drop some bombs on the reader and issue #8 is no different. We are given a tease of what should be some heavy plot points coming, but we have to wait for the next issue before that reveal is made. As for this issue, it is simply marvelous. This gem is still shining brightly within the layers of other titles out there. You should really go out and find this one if you are looking for some top shelf entertainment in an affordable package. It is well worth it.

Score: 4/5

Writer: J. Michael Straczynski Artist: Gordon Purcell Publisher: Image/Joe’s Comics Price $2.99 Release Date: 8/20/14 Format: Ongoing; Print/Digital