4. “Half A Life” (Issues 6-10)
Oh look, it's the most famous Gotham Central story of all time. The one that won all those awards. And deservedly so because it. Is. Spectacular.
Detective Renee Montoya's life begins to fall apart. One of her previous collars attempts to sue her, someone forcibly outs her as gay to the entire department and she's framed for murder. What follows is an emotionally raw story not just about being falsely accused of murder but of coming out to a prejudiced family as well.
"Half a Life" was the recipient of an Eisner, a Harvey, and a Gaylactic Spectrum award for its handling of gay rights and discrimination and it deserved all three awards. Plus it pulls the Gotham Central trademark of dropping a surprise mystery Batman villain in the third act. Also, we meet Montoya's girlfriend Daria who is a character I really like. Montoya went on to be the most enduring Gotham Central character and "Half A Life" is almost entirely why. Plus, it's a thrilling mystery with an immensely satisfying conclusion.
