Grandville by Bryan Talbot

Grandville (Grandville)

by Bryan Talbot

In Grandville, the first volume in the series, Talbot brings us a steampunk masterpiece. IIt tells the story of detective Inspector LeBrock of Scotland Yard as he stalks a gang of murderers through the heart of Belle Epoque Paris. In this alternative reality France is the major world power and its capital throngs with steam-driven hansom cabs, automatons and flying machines. The characters are mostly animals, though there is an underclass of humans, often referred to as 'dough faces'.

Visually stunning, Grandville is a fantastical and audacious rollercoaster ride that will add to Talbot's reputation as one of the best graphic novelists in the world.

Reviewed by wyvernfriend on

4 of 5 stars

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In a world where animals rule, two hundred years ago Britain lost the Napoleonic War and like other European countries it's royal family were gillotined. 23 years before England got her independence but there are still issues.

Not least of which is the sudden death of Raymond Leigh-Otter, a death that looks like suicide but Inspector LeBrock of Scotland Yard isn't convinced and his investigation brings him to Grandville, or Paris as we would know it. Dragging him into conspiracy and more dead bodies. A world with steampunk touches and some great artwork.

Not the first Bryan Talbot I've read, this was interesting and touching and rather cool. I liked the characters and the names gave me an occasional giggle.

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Reading updates

  • Started reading
  • 14 December, 2009: Finished reading
  • 14 December, 2009: Reviewed