Belgian graphic artist Joris Mertens trained as a graphic designer in Brussels, and worked for many years in advertising, film, and television as a set designer, art director, illustrator, and storyboard artist.

This experience laid the groundwork for a deep understanding of storytelling through atmosphere and images, and he deploys this to great effect in his graphic novels. He follows up his multi-award winning debut Beatrice with Bleekwater, which tells the story of François, who drives deliveries for a dry cleaning company.

Every day he drives his van through a run-down city where it seems to be raining incessantly, his highlights being a visit to the newspaper kiosk of the cordial Maryvonne and a daily drink in his favourite cafe.

But while every day appears to be the same, the monotony of François’ life is about to be broken by dramatic events which threaten to make all his dreams come true.