Issue #18 kicks off an interesting new arc for the Batwoman series but it's not likely to gain any new followers unless those folks are dedicated enough to go back and read the first 3 volumes. Seeing how Batwoman and her partner operate against a foe like Mr. Freeze in the book's opening pages was very thrilling and it's great to see that the personal relationships of these characters are still getting plenty of focus as well. The artwork is gorgeous and features some really stylish page layouts that are a pleasure to look at too. Other than the pooraccessibilityof this first chapter my only complaints would be that the ending was rather abrupt and its cliffhanger confusing. The comic places so much emphasis on the artwork that sometimes very little happens on a page and with so many characters the tale didn't quite gain enough traction following the opening fight. Read Full Review

After the long Medusa arc, this issue feels like a breath of fresh air. While it seems this next arc may be a bit more grounded and less grand, it's a welcome change in my book, as we'll be getting more integration into the Bat world, more focus on the supporting characters, and all the good stuff that comes with it. If it wasn't for those nagging habits this book has had since the start, I would have been entirely satisfied with this issue. Read Full Review

I really wanted to see some kind of follow-up to Kate's marriage proposal. It was a huge moment for this series, as was Maggie finding out that her girlfriend is Batwoman! Why didn't we get that scene? Seems to me that would be a huge moment for both characters and the series. Instead we get a random fight with Mr. Freeze and a scene of Maggie trying to pick out a new apartment. I'm also a little annoyed that Batwoman is still working for the DEO. I thought she quit last issue, and I was glad for it. I don't like that Batwoman is beholden to an organization like the DEO, or to characters like Chase, who is generally unpleasant. It's just an annoying complication, especially since it's not like the DEO has any standing in the DC Universe these days. There are dozens upon dozens of spooky organizations with acronym names. The DEO is nobody special. At least it was fun to see Batwoman and Hawkfire teaming up. Read Full Review

I still don't like the name Hawkfire, though. What was wrong with Flamebird? Read Full Review

Not much forward movement, plot-wise, but you still get treated to some of the lushest art on the stands, along with convincingly grounded scripting. Read Full Review

Batwoman #18, when compared to #17, isn't as amazing as it could have been, but Williams and Blackman have never disappointed when we were given filler issues like this.They are all about a very detailed and personal story with new and unique approaches at storytelling, and despite it being a bit slow halfway through, has not lost any faith from this reviewer. This series is still headed in a great direction, exploring many uncharted territories that most superhero comics are just too afraid to go. If you're looking for a good place to jump on (besides reading the entire series from #1 because it's simply outstanding) this issue is a great starting point. Don't miss out on this series any longer. Read Full Review

Batwoman #18 is an excellent jumping on point in terms of story, but when that story isn't paired with Williams' peerless pencils, it can't be a true sample of how great this comic can be. Read Full Review

The problems arise when the tantalizing plot threads dangled before us like a carrot on a string from last month's issue are simply left to dangle as Blackman and Williams grant them only cursory attention (in the case of Kate Kane's marriage proposal) or danced around entirely (in the case of Alice's surprise appearance). The issue ultimately feels like filler between the previous story arc and the next and though there are a few nice moments throughout, it doesn't lay any more foundation than what we already have. Read Full Review

The ending cliffhanger of "Batwoman" #18 is a nicely done, and will leave readers curious about the new player the D.E.O. is bringing in to make Batwoman's life even more complicated. "Batwoman" #18 is a soft story arc setup, but future issues will probably remedy its most noteworthy misstep in pacing. Read Full Review