This graphic novel tells of an investigation into the phenomenon of an Elvis impersonator who has attracted a cultlike quasi-religion, an investigation carried out by a faded tabloid writer trying to reboot himself as an investigative reporter, in the company of his Sancho Panza, a private investigator. The eponymous king is a bluff but elusive fellow who, though seemingly benign himself, is surrounded by sinister toughs who do little to aid the protagonist's inquiries. The illustration is mostly black-and-white with some minimal coloring, which I noticed only because the colorist gets a credit, and is straightforward and easy to follow. Except for one of the thugs looking somewhat like the protagonist, the characters are similarly easy to differentiate. I was only mildly drawn into the story, however, and, though there are a few musings included on the nature of celebrity and religious cults, for the most part this didn't seem to be taking on any of life's big questions. Thus, it's a moderately interesting story presented pretty well, but lacking depth. ( )

Is it possible that Elvis could return to earth as the appointed God of Music and decide to to a run of shows in Las Vegas? If he did, what would the media make of it? Who would be scrambling to get the first interview? What of the guys that used to write all of those Elvis sighting stories?

Well, if you're Paul Erfurt, you thought your National Enquirer days were behind you and your chance to write for Time was a stroke of luck. Of course, you thought you were there to prove this guy a fraud and didn't expect to actually believe that this was Elvis...or King as he prefers to be called.

Thus begins the mystery of The King. Is this man who everyone thinks he is? What does it take to become a god (even a minor one?) in this age of celebrity? How important is legend in this modern world? Is belief worth having anymore? These are just a few of the things touched upon in a quick and entertaining read from Koslowski. ( )

Known only as “the King” and wearing a gold mask over his face, a spectacularly popular Elvis impersonator claims to be the real deal, transformed by death into a god of song. Ex-tabloid reporter Paul Erfurt is sent to Vegas to interview the King and his closest followers. Once there, he quickly realizes that there is much more to the story than he ever could have imagined. Blue-tone artwork sets the mood for this mysterious and intriguing tale by Wisconsin author Koslowski.