Reviewer: Mathan Erhardt- Aquarius
Story Title: N/A
Written by: Keith Giffen
Penciled by: Colleen Doran
Inked by: Bob Wiacek
Lettered by: John E Workman
Colored by: Lovern Kindzierski
Edited by: Joan Hilty
Publisher: DC Comics
Ok the book begins in an Arian foxhole, with soldiers discussing the events that unfolded last issue. Then we jump to the House of Aries where Na’ia’s parents are discussing how to deal with the fallout of her running off with her true love, and leaving her arranged husband to be at the alter, last issue. Let’s just say that what they have planned is a tad more drastic than just cutting her out of the will. Oh yeah, they are also interested in the portal. We then find ourselves on Earth following our pair of star-crossed lovers moments after they’ve arrived.
They are captured and their arrival has some serious religious implications. Then we go to the House of Virgo where we see their reaction having their arranged marriage to the house of Ares thwarted by a Caprician and true love. Needless to say they are less than happy. The House of Capricorn is also dealing with the fall out from the aborted wedding. But they are more focused on the technology involved in the feat. Fortunately they are in possession of Dimit’r, an accomplice from last issue, and are extracting the information from him, emphasis on extracting.
Giffen is like that one teacher who just lectures and expects you to jot everything down. He doesn’t care if he uses jargon or if you don’t understand. Either you find a way to keep up or you get left behind. This book is a dense read. In order to fully understand this issue I had to read it twice and reread #2 once. Giffen writes how people talk. Characters don’t always refer to the person they are talking to by name, so at times you are wondering who is speaking to whom. But it’s a challenge. Reading this book is reminiscent of reading the Legion relaunch of the early nineties. It’s not an easy read, but it is a satisfying one. The Giffen renaissance has arrived.
This book is as beautifully illustrated as it is densely written. Doran and Wiacek form a perfect tandem. Every House is distinct, and lushly rendered. Great looking backgrounds and characters whom look distinct. This looks like a book put together by veterans of the comic book industry. Everyone plays his or her part superbly.
