Exquisite Corpse by Penelope Bagieu

Release Date - May 5, 2015

Penelope Bagieu
First Second

Book Review by Tracy Farnsworth

Graphic novels are always hit or miss with me. I'm delighted to say that Exquisite Corpse is a huge hit and a book that I recommend to almost any adult reader. I am going to say adult only because some of the scenes do have brief nudity. While I would be happy to let my high schooler read it, I know other parents who are the polar opposite of me. I definitely think the story line is witty, honest, and at times downright hilarious.

Zoe is a product rep at various trade shows. The truth is, she's not happy with her job, her boyfriend is a dud, and generally she's miserable. One day, while sitting at the park, she spies a man watching her from his apartment window. Zoe takes a chance and buzzes him and asks to use his bathroom.

It isn't long before Zoe is completely infatuated with this man. Thomas Rocher is a reclusive author, one going through writer's block. As Zoe becomes Thomas's muse and lover, she discovers a secret that changes everything.

I loved the story, the illustrations are fantastic, and I sat down meaning to only read a chapter or two and ended up finishing the book the same afternoon. It's a quick read and one that definitely left me with a grin on my face. Anyone looking for a change of pace that has a touch of romance, a touch of reality, and plenty of humor needs to read Exquisite Corpse.