Review by Diego Guerra
Elves cannot be seen by humans, which allows them to set traps, drain the substance from food, or replace human babies with changelings. When one of these changelings grew up they became a magician, and found a way for humans to spot the Elves, leading to a ruthless war. In the end, the Elves were confined to a small besieged castle, which they decided to defend to the last. However, Tirol tries to persuade the elders of an option to avoid perishing: to move to a remote forest with Brii, the daughter of Grimwood. When the elders refuse, he at least wants to take his niece Lina with him, but the human siege is imminent, and the Elves seem irrevocably determined to face their tragic fate. In the forest, Brii awaits the outcome of the battle and the return of her loved Tirol.
In terms of narrative, Grimwood’s Daughter provides a fresh twist on elf and fairy tales, with its drama, epic tone, and the realism of its dialogue. From the very first page, the story is steeped in a sombre, tragic mood and is told in the style of a true saga. Of course, there are influences from Tolkien, but Jan Strnad’s voice is very much his own. Likewise, in the graphic department, Kevin Nowlan’s drawings, with a classic style, polished figures, and captivating lines, are perfectly suited, filled with poetic imagery and romanticism. Nowlan’s art draws inspiration from Hal Foster and Alex Raymond, yet maintains a unique, dreamlike tone that is rarely seen.
Grimwood’s Daughter originally appeared as a supplement, serialised between 1985 and 1986. Writing Dalgoda, Strnad had another idea about elf wars that he wanted to develop in short instalments, and, despite being the magazine’s supplementary material, it surpassed the lead feature in depth and lyricism. IDW’s timely reissue compiles the complete story in black and white, enhancing Williams’ careful inking, though losing the colour of the original Dalgoda magazine edition.
Grimwood’s Daughter is a brief, beautiful, and original tale, a small masterpiece of fantasy comics that transcends trends and genre conventions. A comic truly worth appreciating in every way.
