Hard Bargain Introduces A Noir Thriller with a Supernatural Twist From Steven S. DeKnight
Renowned showrunner Steven S. DeKnight, known for his work on shows like Daredevil and Spartacus, is set to make his debut as an original graphic novel writer. The graphic novel, titled Hard Bargain, will be published by Humanoids and introduces us to a noir thriller that comes with a twist.
Teaming up with illustrator Leno Carvalho (known for his work on Superman’s Pal, Jimmy Olsen Special), colorist Bruno Hang, and letterer Troy Peteri, DeKnight brings to life a gripping story that combines elements of hardboiled detective fiction with a touch of the supernatural.

Set in the gritty backdrop of 1940s Los Angeles, “Hard Bargain” follows the life of Frank Harding, a private detective who ekes out a living by tracking down ordinary criminals while waging battles against demons. However, a seemingly routine case leads Frank down a twisted path that connects to his own past and delves into the city’s dark history of racism and discrimination.
DeKnight, who has nurtured the concept for over three decades, expressed his excitement about realizing this long-held dream. In a press release, he said:
“Hard Bargain has been a dream thirty years in the making. An idea that sprang from my love of two-fisted, hard-boiled detective stories and matinee creature-features of days gone by.” With the exceptional artwork of Leno Carvalho and the support of the team at Humanoids, DeKnight’s dream is finally coming to fruition.


Carvalho also shared his enthusiasm for the project, stating:
“Hard Bargain is a new universe of possibilities with new challenges and new rewards. A strong, concise narrative rich in twists and turns that combines the charm of old detective stories with the action-packed thrillers of today.”
Fans of noir thrillers and supernatural tales can anticipate the story which will unravel in DeKnight’s Hard Bargain when it arrives at your favorite local comic shop and digital platforms in August 2024.
Thomas Sauceda
A variety geek who enjoys geeking out with friends over video games, comics, or movies/TV shows. An avid wrestling fan since the days of the Attitude Era and N64’s No Mercy, he now spends much of his time reading and collecting comics. All of my puns are intended.
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