With a title like Victorian Undead, Sherlock Holmes vs Zombies, there is only one of two ways that a book can go - disaster or brilliance (and no I’m NOT going to qualify that.) This is a book with a writer who understands Holmes (although as a British writer it should be written into his DNA) having several adaptations under his belt as well as a fine heritage in comic books Ian Edginton, an artist who’s style is rich and vivid Davide Fabbri, and published by Wildstorm, home to some of the greatest creator owned titles in the universe. Silly premise and a solid pedigree…so what is it, good silly fun or toe curling disaster?

It’s easily the former, very silly fun. It’s a fantastic journey through a twisted slightly steam punk version of Victorian London, beautifully realised with clean and slick art by Fabbri and a great set up and smart dialogue by Edgington. Much as I enjoyed the recent Trial of Sherlock Holmes by Moore and Reppion, I can’t help but prefer this light-hearted tale, which like all slightly silly premises must be to retain any readability, is played with an entirely straight bat. The story never knowingly winks at you, it takes itself seriously enough to ensure this far fetched tale, feels as honest and couched in Holmes reality as any other adaptation.

The story is straight forward enough. A meteorite has crashed in the environs of London in the spring of 1854. Fast forward to the summer of that year and strange things are afoot. The dead are being found mutilated, and appear to have difficulty staying dead.

Holmes meanwhile confronts an automaton assailant who seems to be more familiar with him than he with it, while Watson stands mesmerised….

As the plague in London deepens Holmes gets to meet one of these undead pests, but finds himself being ushered away under warning not to interfere by Queen Vics finest black ops. Simple right?

The set up, which essentially this first issue first issue is, provides a great read. Pace is electric quick, and sets the scene on a world slightly removed from our own. The threads are all there for a highly enjoyable tale or Holmes investigation, a touch of steam punk and lashings of zombies. Victorian Undead, is well worth a read, and looks like its going to be a great, fun ride.