Batman #698 was a fun fast-paced Batman story. While not as deep and complex like what Morrison is giving us in Batman and Robin which might turn some readers off that like that type of story this was still a solid Batman story that most Batman fans should enjoy. Also if you are a fan of the Riddler this is an issue you should pick up. Overall a solid Batman story that I recommend all Batman fans looking for a fun fast-paced story to pick up. Read Full Review

This was a pretty good story, even if the ending is really obvious... I'd be willing to bet almost any amount of money that Blackspell is actually the Riddler, who is returning to his criminal ways. I definitely hope that isn't the case, because I like the Riddler a lot more as a pseudo-good guy then a go nowhere villain, but let's just say I won't be surprised when/if Riddler turns back to the darkside. Other then that, this was definitely a good read, with a fun(if seemingly obvious)mystery, so how can I really complain? Read Full Review

I'd imagine it's hard to write a Batman story right now that isn't as exciting as Bruce Wayne traveling through time or a possible return of his father Thomas Wayne, but kudos to Tony Daniel for not inviting a comparison. With good art, hidden gems, and a classic-feeling Batman story separated from the craziness going on elsewhere I would easily recommend this as a good buy for any fan. Read Full Review

I'm a Riddler fanboy, and this issue is Riddler heavy. So I'm pretty sure the score got bumped up a little because of it. But in all honesty, this was a pretty solid issue if you can get by the minor art problems I mentioned. For the first time, in a long time, I'm actually excited to see where this story goes. If this book continues to be this solid, it would easily become my favorite Bat-book. Read Full Review

All in all, Batman #698 is a competent follow-up to Daniel's first arc on Batman, one that reaffirms his talents as a writer even if it underlines some of his faults. At the very least, it appears he more than capable of weaving many of the subplots he set into motion last arc together with this latest whodunit, which suggests his run on this title will retain that authorial voice that made his debut such a treat. Read Full Review

I never thought I'd say this, but here we go: if March needs to step in to help out Daniel on the art again, I'd welcome his presence. Daniel and March work well together, and it's nice to see each of them providing a satisfying read. Daniel's run on "Batman" was one of the big surprises for me in the last year, but March's art improving so much is now high on the list as well. Good stuff. Read Full Review

Final Thoughts: I like the direction that Batman is headed in. The inclusion of the mystery themes to the story brings back memories of some great Batman stories and this certainly captured that feel. If the writer and artist can work on the process of shifting scenes than this issue would have been much more fluid and enjoyable. It was still a good issue and definitely worth a look. Read Full Review

It felt like Daniel just mailed this in, which is unfortunate, because I've read better stories by him and know he's capable of more. I can't recommend this book. Read Full Review

I've been one of the few vocal supporters of Tony Daneil's run on the internet, but even I can't find much to like about this one. The writing is really stiff with poor characterization and haphazard writing, which is only made worse by one of Guillem March's worst issues since breaking in at DC. I'm really hoping that this one is just a fluke, but it just does not work for me at all on any level. Read Full Review