As Batman investigates the culprits that caused the assassination attempt in Gotham, two familiar faces have returned to plot against a new foe, called the Designer.

What does the Designer have planned for Gotham? Can Batman and Catwoman discover who the designer is before the designer finds them?

Tynion has brought back two characters that haven’t been seen in some time in regards to the main Batman title. What makes this issue interesting is seeing how Tynion continues to handle the dynamic between Batman and Catwoman, which is handled beautifully. There is a sense of playfulness and concern between the two love birds, and yet, they are able to switch roles seamlessly that feels natural to what an actual couple dies when trying to solve problems, and recognizing signs of concern and worry. What’s also makes this book great is that Tynion shows that he’s willing to play ball with other writers in regards to the status quo that’s going on at DC Comics. Jim Gordon isn’t around for this current case since he has been infected by the Batman Who Laughs, and if you want to know where he is, you can read Williamson’s Batman/Superman for that. Despite the absence of Gordon, Tynion is able to make this book reader-friendly, while also acknowledging continuity in regards to Kings run, and Batman/Superman by having Bullock as the commissioner stand-in for the GCPD. Yet despite acknowledging continuity, Tynion is still able to forge new elements that don’t feel like a retread to what has come before, making this story a worthwhile read.

Gulliem March’s artwork is very dynamic, providing creative layouts that are cleverly illustrated, causing the reader to pause in awe before moving onto the next page. Despite the narrative behind the Riddler’s new appearance, March does a good job at illustrating Riddler in a new creepy fashion. Morey’s coloring really makes March’s layouts pop with cinematic flair, making this latest installment feel just as important as the last issue. Cowels lettering is the cherry on top of the cake, making the book readable without any clutter between the word balloons and the artwork. The artwork is bombastic, the writing is amazing, and readers get to see Batman and Catwoman in interesting territory in regards to the current status quo of the title. I highly recommend picking this issue up for new comic book day,

By Anthony Andujar Jr.

Anthony Andujar Jr. is an NYC cartoonist and lover of comics and music. So much so that it led him to writing comic book reviews in between it all.