Review by Frank Plowright

The 1971 Monaco Grand Prix was notable for being the final race held on the original Monte Carlo route, and for rain plaguing the qualifying sessions leading to famous names being absent from the actual race.

Michel Vaillant’s second participation in a real world race leaves a larger impression than the first. This is greatly helped by the Mediterranean location and a race taking place through winding roads used by standard traffic for the remainder of the year. Vincent Dutreuil supplied detailed art for In the Hell of Indianapolis, but his art only really came to life during the racing sequences, although the likenesses of actual racing drivers were good. With the addition of Monaco’s beautiful scenery, the tempestuous conditions and greater concentration on driving, Dutreuil’s detailed approach pays off, and A Driver’s Soul is a more attractive looking graphic novel.

The title refers to Vaillant’s participation in a magazine feature pairing him with novelist Francine Seik, neither familiar with the other’s work, and his explanation to her of the skills and instincts required for driving at his level. The technical details and feelings are well conveyed over a dense page, and Denis Lapière is to be applauded for avoiding the cliché of setting up a relationship. While it seems Seik’s presence is fleeting, her presence also impacts on the crime plot.

This involves the Vaillante team’s other driver Steve Warson, a more ebullient character than the rather stiff series star. The off-track action doesn’t occupy as many pages as last time, and incorporates a chase sequence enabling Warson to show off his driving skills and showcasing Dutreuil’s design for the distinctive Vaillante sports car. In terms of plot, though, it doesn’t say much for Warson or the car that they’re so easily caught by the driver of a Renault 12.

Not only does A Driver’s Soul look better, it’s a far more engaging graphic novel, both for race enthusiasts and lovers of an action plot.