Black Water Lilies

BOOKLIST -- In this noir-styled graphic novel set in northern France, readers meet three women of different ages and demeanors. All are residents of Giverny, a village in which a philandering ophthalmologist is murdered. The village is strongly tied to Monet and his paintings. With three methods of death possible, it is up to Inspector Laurenç to solve the case. Adapted from the novel Nymphéas noirs (2011), by Michel Bussi, the story is intricately plotted with a large cast of characters, making it read much more like prose than a typical graphic novel. The watercolor illustrations enhance the story, creating a strong sense of place and allowing readers to see Monet’s world through an impressionist's eyes. Some darker outlining, particularly of characters, creates depth and perspective within the frames. Those who have already read the original novel will savor the story with illustrations, while those experiencing it for the first time will fall in love with the lush settings. Hand this to the reader who would otherwise turn up their nose at a graphic novel.