Helsing #1GFT Helsing #1 – Cupcakes with Hades

Grimm Fairy Tales Helsing #1 Review by Jessica Curtis

Writer: Shand
Artwork: Brescini
Colors: Gamboa

“It starts with an idea. A spark in the dark.”

So begins the story of Liesel Van Helsing, Vampire Hunter. Hardly minor in talent or skill she is an inventor as much as she is a vampire hunter. Dressed in the ever fashionable steampunk style, her weapons are as much a fashion statement as her attire. Who could blame her? Both her outfit and her weapons are awesome.

THelsing #1he way the comic is written and played out is different from what I am used to when it comes to Zenescope. I certainly am not complaining, I like the variation but it was quite unexpected. Leave it to Zenescope to have another additional element of surprise when it comes to themes and story telling. From the table of invention, to steam punk vampire slaying, to a date night with Hades, the story seems as if pages were torn from different books and seamlessly interwoven.

Cupcakes and the God of the Underworld with the Daughter of Helsing… hmm… yes I do believe I can deal with that.

Gamboa’s colors for every page are well chosen. The colors vary per page depending on the scene. The reflections of the past are given antique and shadowy hues, while Liesel herself on every page is always brightly colored. This does help assist to assure the reader always has their attention focused on the predominant character of Liesel. Even if she is in a shirt and underwear, her vampire slaying attire, or her quite Victorian outfit for date night you just cannot take your eyes off of her. She is one that the reader will be unable to take their eyes off of. I have a feeling I am going to like Liesel Van Helsing. She is one fascinating woman in every aspect and way.

Helsing #1While Helsing #1 plays out in parts you are more likely to find in a chick flick, the end leaves me eagerly waiting for Helsing #2. When a book suddenly ends leaving you with more questions then answers you want to know more. Much as Liesel, my curiousity has been piqued and I look forward to her continued travels and investigation deep within the center of Italy. By one little bookmark the reader knows that some of the familiar faces of the Van Helsing legacy are bound to show up and emerge from the shadows of legend themselves.

 – Jessica