Witchfinder: In the Service of Angels (Dark Horse)

Witchfinder: In the Service of Angels

Dark Horse

Written by Mike Mignola; art by Ben Stenbeck; colors by Dave Stewart

Apr 29, 2010 Web Exclusive By Jeremy Nisen

Sir Edward Grey is a handy man to have around when something weird is going down. Known as “Witchfinder” to some, owing to one of his earliest adventures (reprinted at the end of this volume), Sir Edward is a paranormal investor in London during the late 1800s. Witchfinder: In the Service of Angels takes place in the greater Hellboy universe, yet knowledge of Hellboy or BPRD is completely unnecessary to enjoy this tome. In fact, Witchfinder may serve as a good entry point into that universe, a world where demons, magic, and the like exist.

Mike Mignola, grand vizier of the Hellboy franchise, wrote the story and his unmistakable line graces many a pin-up and cover art throughout the trade, which comprises a five issue limited series of the same name plus a couple reprints from other mags. The art by Ben Stenbeck evokes Mignola without aping it, very much keeping with the dark, mysterious tone of the Hellboy world. The colors by the always-amazing Dave Stewart add to the local color (no pun intended), with drab backgrounds evoking a cold, authentic-feeling Victorian London (not that your reviewer would be in a position to know authentic London, but take my word for it: Stewart is probably the best colorist in the biz).

The tale itself is interesting, spooky, and, at times, quickens the blood. There are even some genuinely amusing literary riffs in there as well (how would you milk such tiny cows?). Fans of horror and Lovecraftian mythos should definitely give it a look; most anyone should enjoy this self-contained look into the adventures of this occult detective. (www.darkhorse.com)

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