Pepper Piper Monster Hunter #1: A New World Order
Creative Team
writer: VASHMERE VALENTINE
artist/colorst: P.R. DEDELIS
letterer: JOHN CASEY OROZCO
publisher: NEXT STEP COMICS
Pepper Piper Monster Hunter #1 bursts into the comic book world with a punk-fantasy story full of rich lore and energy.
Set 600 years after a “Wicked War” rages between humanity and the supernatural—clans of vampires, witches, and werewolves hide in plain sight in New York City. At the center of this story is Pepper Piper, a descendant of a mysterious musical power that stands between life and the end of the world as we know it.
Pepper Piper Monster Hunter Vol. 1 is the first title from publisher Next Step Comics, and this debut sets a high standard for what’s to come from the company in the future. Within the 30+ pages of this comic is an exciting new world of monsters and hunters that playfully incorporates classic characters from fairytales into a modern narrative. While this concept isn’t new, Pepper Piper Monster Hunter carves out its own space with its fresh and exciting world.
Written by Vashmere Valentine, the script is clearly a labor of love. The amount of detail put into Pepper’s personality and the world around her make the experience engaging—especially after multiple reads.
When introducing complex worlds and organizations such as the Witch Hunting Organization that Pepper used to be a part of, it’s easy to let exposition bog down the script. Luckily, Valentine strikes the right balance of giving enough details to connect the dots without overshadowing Pepper’s journey.
Much of this story follows Pepper as she transitions from battling creatures in seedy alleys, to talking to her moms at a diner, and finally to secret passageways of her old school. This mix of adventure and fantasy keeps the experience entertaining all while hinting at the larger world around her.
The art and colors by P.R. Dedelis are a perfect match to Valentine’s story. In terms of character design, Dedelis nails the right tone for Pepper and other characters she interacts with like Idris—a motorcycle riding character who wears a jack-o-lantern helmet and whose fable (or power) can call upon a headless horseman.
A story set in New York City demands attention to little details, and Dedelis also captures the atmosphere of a sprawling city unaware of the monsters that lurk.
Vol. 1, also titled ‘Sympathy for the Devil,’ provides a solid hook by the end of the experience and will have readers excited for future entries. As a new series to the comic book world, Pepper Piper Monster Hunter is certainly a worthy addition to any comic book collection. From the narrative to the art, this issue gives a robust experience that is worth the price of admission.
This series debut doesn’t just introduce one of most likable and exciting characters as of late, but establishes a full world within just a couple dozen pages. Prepare for an epic journey as Pepper Piper Vol. 1 sets the stage for a must-read saga.
To pick up your copy, visit https://www.pepperpiper.com.
About Next Step Comics:
In a rapidly evolving world, representation and inclusivity have become paramount in all forms of media. As a significant part of popular culture, comic books have not always been the most inclusive when it comes to representing various minority groups. However, change is underway with the rise of Next Step Comics. Founded by a group of passionate creatives, Next Step Comics aims to break barriers, shatter stereotypes, and foster a more diverse and inclusive comic book industry. https://www.nextstepcomics.com