Booknote: Sherlock Holmes and the Vampires of London

Sylvain Cordurie, Sherlock Holmes and the Vampires of London. Milwaukie, OR: Dark Horse, 2014. ISBN: 9781616552664

Genre: Graphic Novels
Subgenre: detective, vampires

Like vampires? Like Sherlock Holmes? Then this book may be just what the doctor ordered. It is widely known that Sherlock Holmes faced his nemesis Dr. Moriarty at Reichenbach Falls. The world thought they both fell to their deaths. As we know, Holmes survived, and he had hoped to take some time now that the world thought him dead to do a few things. Unfortunately, when it is revealed that there is a major presence of vampires in London, the great detective must return to London once more. This adventure promises to be a challenge for the great detective because the vampires may hold influence all the way up to the throne of Queen Victoria. Will he be able to prevail?

Fans of Sherlock Holmes will likely enjoy this volume that collects two volumes of the series originally created by French publisher Soleil. The book offers intrigue, adventure, politics, and action. The art brings the Victorian era to life, although there were a few places where it was a little fuzzy. I am not sure if it was due to reading it as an e-book or because of the art itself, but I did have to look closely at times to make details out. A little more definition would be desirable. Holmes will have to use all of his wits and knowledge to succeed this time. Fans may also find this volume interesting as the adventure is told from Holmes' own point of view. After all, the world thinks Holmes is dead, and that includes Dr. Watson. Holmes is the one writing down the adventure this time and narrating it for us. For me, it was a quick and entertaining read that I do recommend.

Overall, I am giving it 4 out of 5 stars as it is one that I really liked, mostly for the story. The book is out for release in February 2014.

Disclosure note: This is where I tell you that I read this as an e-book provided by the publisher via NetGalley for review purposes. The idea was for me to provide a fair and honest review. There has been no compensation. There, we keep The Man appeased once more.