Writer/Artist: Bryan Talbot

Publisher: Dark Horse, $17.95 HC

Why You Should Know It: Grandville is an anthropomorphic alternate history steampunk romance mystery thriller, and if that doesn’t touch at least one genre you’re interested in then really, nothing will make you happy in life. The story follows Detective Inspector LeBrock of Scotland Yard, a brilliant badger who gets sucked into a giant conspiracy. As he investigates with the aid of his companion Roderick, Lebrock keeps digging himself deeper as the case implicates high ranking government officials and the stakes get higher and higher.

I’ve been a big fan of Talbot’s work ever since the Tale of One Bad Rat and The Heart of the Empire, and he doesn’t disappoint here at all. The art is beautiful and lushly colored, and the storytelling is smooth and fluidly paced. Smart scripting, dialogue, and fun characterization make this a solid and enjoyable read. My only complaint is that there isn’t more, and although I doubt it will ever happen I would love to see a continuation down the line. Keep an eye out for special guest appearances such as Omaha the Cat Dancer and a very depressing sequence with Snowy from Tintin.

If you like this then try: The Tale of One Bad Rat, Heart of the Empire, Alice In Sunderland, The Adventures of Luther Arkwright, The Deadboy Detectives

Related Links: The Official Bryan Talbot Fanpage

Dark Horse Comics