I dont recall ever reading a Matt Wagner story that wasnt an example of quality writing and/or illustration, and that trend continues with this current work. Read Full Review

The stakes are raised here and some of it feels rushed or artificial. I like that Batman narrowly escapes from the spike wall trap then immediately goes to meet up with Gordon. As well, Gordon's reaction is appropriately level. This guy is kind of nuts and I should be smarter about how and when I associate with him. We see more of the trauma of the characters, here with Norman and Bruce's parents echoing his fears for Julie. The artificial stakes are just thrown in when Norman does exactly what the Monk wants not that he was in anyway coerced to go off to confront Sal Maroni. It's obviously not going to end well and just feels unnecessary. Have him confront Batman somehow and it creates a rift between Bruce and Julie. Going to Maroni doesn't do anything because Sal considers them square. more