Brutal truths are revealed and pivotal decisions are made as Slam Bradley finally resolves the case of the missing gold digger with gory results. Meanwhile, Selina reaches some devastating conclusions about herself and Holly makes a decision that could plunge her back into the dark world of drug addiction. "No Easy Way Down" part 3.
This follow-up arc to the Black Mask arc managed to walk a pretty fine line, as while it's nice to see the tragic events that played out in the previous arc have made an impact, there's also such a thing as being too dark & morose, so that it becomes difficult to find any enjoyment in watching these characters destroy themselves. This issue acts as a bit of a happy ending, as we see our three primary characters manage to find their way back into the light. Now I found the ending was a bit abrupt, as it almost seems like the book shifted its mood a little too quickly. However, I'm glad to see these characters are no longer drowning in self pity, and this book could certainly use a brighter mood, as these past two arcs have been enjoyable reads, but they've also been thoroughly grim & depressing. Now the cover overstates the Catwoman/Batman scene, but while it's a quick little exchange it's also one of the more interesting moments in the issue, and one wonders how closely Batman's been k Read Full Review
One thing with which I do credit Ed Brubaker is that he did not prolong this lousy storyarc then dovetail it into another lousy storyarc to depict an all-consuming angst that has no place in what really is an escapist title and welcome. Here's hoping "Road Trip" returns the characterization back to normal. Read Full Review