Grim Death and Bill the Electrocuted Criminal

Bentley Hawthorne isn't your typical superhero, but he's serving as death's avenger. Wearing a skull face, he enacts justice by putting murderers to death. Like Batman, Bentley was raised by loving and rich parents and relies on a butler. His parents took a risk by trusting an inventor who promised to ensure that their sickly son would live a long life. Deals with the devil (or with new technology) are never without payment, and as a result of his parents' decision, Bentley must avenge ghosts who visit him. In this pulp fiction—style novel, the action is fast and the plot a bit far-fetched (knife-wielding gorillas, mind-controlling mermaids, evil clowns). Bentley is a relatable character who has the exhausting task of assuming the guise of Grim Death. Flashbacks to Bentley's childhood depict his transformation, and funny quips and moments temper what could have been a dark tale. The book's wide trim size and the occasional, bland black-and-white illustrations give it a unique look.