Elvira Meets H.P. Lovecraft #1
Dynamite Entertainment
Written by David Avallone
Art by Kewber Baal
Colors by Walter Pereyra
Letters by Taylor Esposito
The Rundown: Lovecraft enlists the help of Elvira to find something to prevent the return of Cthulhu.
Elvira receives her latest unwanted visitor in the form of a spectral H.P. Lovecraft who needs the Mistress of the Dark to help him find something that can stop the emergence of one of the Old Ones. In no mood to get involved with another quest, especially with this new visitor, Elvira eventually is convinced to help.
After taking the spectral Lovecraft with her to an old friend and laying down the law with him, the pair discover what is supposed to be an authentic version of the Necronomicon. Unfortunately, their mission is interrupted by cultists seeking the same item.
The Story: Avallone does another great job of diving into the world of horror and humor with Elvira at the center. Like many fans of his work, I have a conflicted relationship with H.P. Lovecraft as a person and I appreciate Avallone for addressing how problematic the man was in his life as well as playfully sublimating him to Elvira’s will in this story. It’s a tricky tightrope to walk, but Avallone succeeds in a way that makes me interested in reading more.
The Art: Baal delivers beautifully detailed and visually thrilling art throughout the issue. I love the visual representation of Cthulhu and the Elder God.