Curiosity Shop #1

Set in 1914 and subtitled Le Réveil ("The Awakening"), this opening volume from Valero and Martin announces itself with a striking Art Nouveau cover — a sharp-eyed young woman in a flowing dress, finger raised to her lips in a gesture of knowing secrecy, framed by elegant curling ironwork and warm blue tones. The period styling feels wholly intentional, evoking the ornate sensibility of the Belle Époque just as Europe stands on the edge of upheaval. Published by Glénat in 2011, Curiosity Shop makes an immediately compelling first impression for anyone drawn to atmospheric historical storytelling.