Though many first discovered Ted Naifeh's work on Slave Labor's Gloomcookie, it was Oni's Courtney Crumrin that opened my eyes to the delight of dark and expressive storytelling. His work on NBM's How Loathsome made it clear that Naifeh was capable of much more than just Courtney's cute goth world, and on this new project, he demonstrates further range as well. Naifeh combines gothic literature elements with pulp adventure to arrive at a charming and thoroughly entertaining story that's more grown up than previous Crumrin stories, but lighter as well, in its own way. A significant bonus is the fact that the creator has crafted this one-shot to be thoroughly accessible. Even those unfamiliar with Courtney Crumrin will have no trouble following and enjoying this adventure of her warlock uncle, Aloysius Crumrin.
Decades ago, before he was a major figure in the supernatural community, Aloysius Crumrin found work as a clerk in a law office, working side by side with Alice Crisp, the daughter of a prominent lawyer with a rather unusual sideline. It turns out he's a member of a society of men looking to eradicate all things and beings supernatural, and Alice hopes to follow in his footsteps. She finds herself in quite a quandry when she learns of Crumrin's secrets, thanks to his nature as a gentleman and even a hero in his own right.
I love the greater depth we see in what appears to be some painted artwork on the cover of this book, but the black-and-white linework within is just as enjoyable. Naifeh conveys a great deal of personality in the young Alice and Aloysius. The latter's reserved, thoughtful nature shines through, and I like the contrast between his physical bumblings and his confidence in his mystical abilities. Alice's strength and determination to be treated as an equal in a time when it was not done also comes through in the way she moves and carries herself. The artist's effort to capture the iconic, lantern-jawed pulp hero is thoroughly successful as well. It's clear he's a parody, but not so much that the fun and adventure he represents is overshadowed by silliness.
Alice is a fascinating character because the reader can't help but cheer her on in her struggle for equality and respect, but at the same time, she's something of an antagonist because of her prejudice of Aloysius. It's fitting that she has trouble because men judge her as being inferior because of her gender when she judges Crumrin for only part of what and who he is. Essentially, she's both a victim and perpetrator of the same crime.
What's most enjoyable about this story is Aloysius's character. His moral center is unwavering. He doesn't care that the organization he's infiltrated seeks to destroy him. He doesn't care that he's in danger of being exposed. He's focused on doing the right thing, but not to the point of being blind to other smaller goods he can accomplish along the way. Ultimately, what makes him an attractive character is that he respects all those around him. 9/10
