Cinder Byrnes has been trying to lie, cheat, and steal his way into wizardry his entire life, and he’s finally got the key to unlocking the power of magic. But first, he needs to stay one step ahead of the sorcerous crime lord that wants him dead. Writer Rich Douek and Artist Brett Barkley present an action-packed urban fantasy tale, set in a modern New York City where World War II was fought with magic.

Unlike most fantasy themed comics (with some exceptions), Gutter Magic #1 is much more modern. Oddly enough IDW Publishing has done this before with James Patterson’s Witch and Wizard, and a few other modern fantasy comics. While modern fantasy isn’t anything new in comics, Gutter Magic #1 is a unique take on the idea. Making magic a rare gift, and making the wizards extremely powerful compared to the “normal,” population is slightly cliche but, it works wonderfully in this setting. There is a little revealed about the main character’s lack of magic despite his families’ gift, but that makes the story intriguing. However, there seems to be a back story to the world that needs to be addressed, which hopefully is explored in the next 3 issues.

The artwork is well done, with a degree of realism in both the human and non-human characters. Even the world is well done, with an extreme attention to the post WWII world, with minor elements of steampunk that can be seen in some of the panels. Of course that does explain the slight Victorian dress of the characters, over a more modern style of clothing but, that works with the story well.

Story: Rich Doeuk  Art: Brett Barkely
Story: 7.0 Art: 8.0 Overall: 7.5 Recommendation: Buy

Comics Experience provided Graphic Policy with a FREE copy for review