Title: Greek Street Vol. 1: Blood Calls for Blood

Author: Peter Milligan and Davide Gianfeelice

Publisher: Vertigo 2010

Genre: Graphic Novel; Fantasy

Pages: 144

Rating: 4/5 stars

Reading Challenges: Graphic Novels

Inspired by classical Greek dramas, the series constructs a crime epic following intertwined stories in modern London and most succeeds in channeling the shock value of the original works.

What would happen if we took the classic Greek dramas and set them in today's world?  Would they fundamentally change?  Milligan shows us that the answer is a resounding NO!  All the stories, the triumphs, the tragedies, the characters from ancient Greece are still with us.

I loved this gritty, definitely not for kids, graphic novel outlying the undying lessons.  All the remembered characters are here (Cassandra, Daedalus, Oedipus, Agamemnon, the Furies, the Fates, the Greek chorus) placed into modern bodies.  I love that this is set in the nasty parts of London, Greek Street, almost a world unto itself.  We feel for the tragedy of Eddie (Oedipus).  We sympathize with Sandy"s (Cassandra) plight.  We loathe Lord Menon's (Agamemnon) and the Furies' despicable behavior.  We hope for Detective Daedalus' future.  Will his blood be spilled while Jesus watches?

This first volume pushes the stories.  Retelling them, but adding new connecting bits.  I really want to read the second volume.  And the third coming out early next year.  Unfortunately, the series was cancelled after issue #16, so I must enjoy it while I can.  I like to think of it as a darker Fables series.  Definitely something perfect for me.