Mike Baron, writer of Nexus and Badger, among many other comics, successfully crowdfunded a new graphic novel, Sherlock Holmes: Leviathan.
Like many Holmes comics, it’s a mashup, where Holmes, Watson, and Irene Adler wind up traveling on Captain Nemo’s Nautilus.
A shipping magnate has come to Holmes to prevent another of his ships disappearing. Although Holmes is “not fond of the sea”, he’s bribed into the investigation, encouraged by a Watson concerned about his drug use.
Baron writes a classic Holmes, tetchy and making deductions. There’s a lot going on in this book, too, with a Russian revolution, a visit to Japan, and various cameos from other characters (which I won’t name to avoid spoiling the surprise). The antagonist I’d never heard of, but he’s another character created by Jules Verne, creator of Captain Nemo. (Sherlock Holmes, John Watson, and Irene Adler were created by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, of course.)
There’s plenty of steampunk adventure, including a battle with a giant squid. Artist Richard Bonk is clearly influenced by Jeremy Brett’s portrayal, as seen in this introductory panel.
It’s a quick read, but enjoyable, particularly for those looking for more of a classic-feeling Holmes. It can be purchased at Baron’s website. There’s also a variant cover available, or it can be purchased digitally.
