God's'Dog Volume 3: Monk written by Jonathan Pageau and Matthieu Pageau, adapted and drawn by Chris Weaver and Jesse White
The newly-baptized and newly-homicidal dog-man Christopher is taken off to a monastery by Daniel, formerly a member of the monastery who joined the pilgrim group that befriended Christopher. Christopher killed someone in rage during the pilgrimage and is to be judged by Symeon, the holy man who is on a pedestal literally--he lives an ascetic life on a platform at the top of a pole. Christopher lives the monastic life as he waits to meet Symeon. He works on praying as he faces a lot of temptations, especially in controlling his anger. Meanwhile, the outer world comes back to haunt him as the Roman emperor arrives for Symeon's advice on fighting giants who are threatening the eastern empire. The giants are really interested in the Skins of Adam, an ancient relic with great power. George, current owner of the Skins, comes with the emperor. George was the leader of the pilgrimage and had encouraged Christopher to be more of a man than a dog, though they fell out after the killing Christopher. The story ends with a battle between the Romans and the giants.
While the story does have some action, the main focus is on Christopher discerning his role in the world. Many of the monks see him as a monster, some claiming his baptism was blasphemy. With the support of Daniel, Christopher strives for a better understanding of himself and of others as he struggles to fit in with the monks.
The other focus is on the mythology of the Skins of Adam, giving a lot of history to the artifact, most of it biblical or bible-adjacent. The pseudo-history is intriguing and builds up the stakes in the current story, where the clash of good and evil becomes more concrete both between characters and within characters.
The art is very good and the narrative is highly enjoyable. I can't wait for volume 4!
Highly recommended.
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