Lady S

Lady S, known by different names and histories, moves through contemporary intelligence intrigues and geopolitical crises. Jean Van Hamme created the series with artist Philippe Aymond in 2004; Aymond later continued the writing himself.

The shifting identity is more than a mystery hook. It makes trust precarious for the heroine and for anyone who believes they know her.

International espionage and action thriller conventions drive the plots. Coercion, cover stories and the demands of state power are recurring pressures.

Aymond’s elegant realism keeps contemporary locations and action comprehensible. His controlled character acting serves scenes in which a small change of expression can expose a lie.