[Editor’s note: This review may contain spoilers.]
Writer: Greg Rucka
Artists: Nicola Scott and Romulo Fajardo Jr.
Summary
Diana and her friends in the military try to figure out what the Sear Group is planning.
Positives
When I first saw the cover, I loudly exclaimed a curse word in surprise. I did not anticipate Ares making an appearance in this story. It seems obvious now but it took me completely off guard. The cover is by Nicola Soctt and Romulo Fajardo Jr. and it is gorgeous. I love the detail in Wonder Woman even though we’re only seeing her back. Additionally, this cover is a wonderful introduction to Ares in this new series. I love how big he is and that he is covered up so we can’t get a good look at him. It’s more about his presence.
The interior art is drawn by Scott with colors by Fajardo Jr.; it is gorgeous as well. I love every panel in this issue. The faces are wonderfully expressive and distinct and Fajardo’s colors compliment the work very well. There is so much personality in the way that Scott draws Diana that is really captivating. I could just look at this art all day and never get bored.
Diana gets to talk to animals in this one which is one of my favorite traits of the character. The empathy for animals she has is incredibly endearing and I love it whenever writers showcase it.
Ares showing up and blowing everything to hell is a great way to end the issue. While it’s not a surprise because he’s on the cover, it still is a great moment of intensity. I also like that Wonder Woman is already aware of Ares. From what I can gather in the issue, she seems to think of him as the drunk uncle that the family never wants to be around.
Negatives
Ares’ appearance is a little too coincidental for my taste. Dr. Minerva and Diana figure out that Ares may be behind the Sear group and he immediately shows up. Maybe he makes an appearance because Diana was starting to figure it out but it doesn’t play that way. It seems random. However, I would love it if he was just waiting outside for his moment. He’s just out there waiting for Diana and Dr. Minerva to figure out his clever anagram so that he can make a dramatic entrance. That would be hilarious.
Verdict
Overall, this is an excellent issue. There’s no real action so don’t get too excited for that. But it more than makes up for that in charm and personality. Every inch of the art is beautiful and fun to look at. There’s wonderful character moments for Diana and the ending is very cool even if it is a little too much of a coincidence. I highly recommend reading this issue.
