DETECTIVE COMICS #973 is both engaging and heartwrenching. James Tynion IV and Jesus Merino portray a visceral, desperate Gotham on the brink of disaster. The action is beautiful and dynamic without exhausting the eye. Despite a lack of development for the main antagonist, the story hits its mark more than it misses. Emotionally resonant and genuinely engaging, the drama escalates as desperate choices are made in this climactic final showdown.

In the middle of the ongoing battle in DETECTIVE COMICS proper, Tynion and Barrows take us on a detour through Basil Karlo's disturbed psyche. Exploring his past and reimagining the iconic origin story, this annual addresses continuity concerns while also contributing a worthwhile addition to the Batman mythos.

Despite its understated tone and methodical pace, GIDEON FALLS #1 is a surprisingly tense and exhilarating read. Jeff Lemire and Andrea Sorrentino expertly craft a slow-burning horror through thoughtful dialogue and exquisitely detailed art. This issue makes for an intriguing introduction to this world and the eccentric characters who inhabit it.