From industry veterans John Layman and Sam Kieth comes new title Eleanor and the Egret. This first issue introduces us to Elanor, a young woman of many interests- running through swamps in floor length backless gowns, visiting art galleries, burglarizing those art galleries- and the egret that accompanies her on her adventures, Ellis.

The world that Layman and Kieth have created seems to be a mashup of the modern era with some Victorian fashion holdovers, with a heavy inclination toward art noveau. Kieth’s artwork is gorgeous, creating a very whimsical atmosphere and really showcasing the different aspects of Elanor’s life. While she is clearly recognizable as the same character throughout the issue, her posture and facial expressions change depending on “which Eleanor” we’re seeing.

We also meet Detective Ballanger and his cat Cheswick, who are on the case chasing down the art thieves. Layman reveals very little of any particular background or motivation, but gives just enough to intrigue his readers. Who is Eleanor? Why does her egret talk? Why does Ballenger talk to his cat so much? Does Eleanor pull off complicated art heists regularly?

However, apart from the chief detective’s creepy perpetual smile, the little we do learn about these characters is that they are likeable and more than meets the eye. So all those readers will be sure to be on the lookout to find out what happens to them next. With a very unexpected last page, readers will be asking themselves all sorts of questions until the next issue is released.

Eleanor and the Egret has a strong start with its first issue, giving us a glimpse into an exciting new world with a distinct style. It’s definitely worth a read.

 

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