Artist Spotlight: Tony Cliff

If you haven't heard of Delilah Dirk before, I think I can happily quote an xkcd comic that states that you are one of the lucky 10,000.  I don't know the exact numbers on how many people have read this graphic novel series, but I do know the number of people that should.  And that number is everybody.  Everybody should buy it with money and read it.

Here's why:

• The story the story the story the story... I like a good adventurous tale. Delilah Dirk epitomizes the adventurer going around and adventuring so as to be a good adventurer.  She, and her companion from Constantinople, Selim, make up a duo of sword slashing, bridge burning (literally), night dashing, tea drinking anti-heroes (and sometimes just plain heroes) who spit in the face of death.  All of this takes place in historically fictional Europe (and the Middle East) of the 19th century, which just adds to the fun.
• The art style is good and, more importantly, it fits.  I always say I like the art of comics I recommend here, but I should clarify that well rendered art is not all that's required for a good comic or graphic novel.  In this case the mix of seriousness and cartooniness in Cliff's art plays with the story perfectly.  It lends itself to both the humorous and heavier aspects of the story.
• The setting, I mentioned earlier, is a historical 19th century.  Cliff makes a note that his historical accuracy might not be something to cite your college thesis on, but it still feels very much like a period piece, albeit with a flying boat.  We see Istanbul, one of the many French and English wars, and an industrializing London.  It may not be a history book, but it does a good job of keeping you in the era.
• Oh, and Tony Cliff draws action scenes really well.  Check it out.

Delilah Dirk is a graphic novel, and thus not for free online.  If you want to get interested, and I think you will, you can read a sample of it at the Official Website.  He also has a Delilah Dirk short story ebook which is pay-what-you-want, though I imagine you'll want to read the first book first.
Now stop reading these words and go track down a copy of Delilah Dirk!