Review by Frank Plowright

Sherlock Holmes and Doctor Watson are in Liverpool wrapping up the case seen on the sample art when they run into people more impressed with Watson’s reputation than Holmes’ and invite them to dinner. That alone is enough to antagonise the egotistical Holmes and he’s more interested in the view from the window, as he witnesses what seems to be an unholy presence and the ensuing panic.

Writers Leah Moore and John Reppion certainly begin on the right foot. Debunking alleged examples of the supernatural is core to the Sherlock Holmes mythology, and in addition to planting their clues well, they supply clever moments. In a scene during the second chapter a police inspector none too impressed with Holmes dismisses him in Irish. When they meet again in the third, Holmes delivers a epithet in Irish. They also have Holmes as extremely observant throughout, picking up details others wouldn’t.

A viable contrast is drawn between the luxury Holmes and Watson occupy and the squalor of Liverpool’s poor, with artist Matt Triano impressing with small touches showing unsavoury conditions. The panels show a lot of effort in defining places, and at a glance the art is rich and impressive. However, Triano can’t keep Holmes looking consistent. It’s possible to see him looking different from panel to panel, never mind page to page. While good at designing people who’ve lived a life of deprivation Triaho will also given them unnatural expressions, which is distracting. However, where distraction is intended, Triano is very good at diverting the eye.

As The Liverpool Demon continues and more people die, the manifestation of a supernatural threat takes hold among the public, and we don’t just see Holmes going about his business, but glimpse at others involved in murkier situations. These departures are necessary for the eventual revelations, which are tidy and creative. The one slight drawback is the identity of the supernatural beast, although its presence is logically explained.

Any Sherlock Holmes fan ought to enjoy this clever mystery.