The most solid 5 I can give
Where we're at: Constantine, Zatana, Deadman, and Black Orchid face off against the one man who might know Constatine's tricks better than Constantine, in order to find the Books of Magic.
Art: I want to make sure to include the colorists, because many times we overlook the work they do. The art is very good in this book, however the colors and shading might have stolen the show. The colors itself, make the book. The colors feel exotic, and magical. Darker than normal comics with several splashes of bright vibrant colors. Alarmingly beautiful and dark at the same time.
You Need to Know: This is most definitely not a jumping on spot. This is a solid series and worth reading the whole series, but you definitely wouldn' t suffer if you jumped on at Justice League Dark #9 through Justice League Dark #12 then read Justice League Dark #0 before reading this issue. (Damn DC numbering) #9 starts the current storyline with the current members.
So you don't like magic stories: What can I tell you that would make you like magic stories? Maybe nothing. What I can say is I wasn't into magic stories myself until I read Hellblazer. Constantine is a trickster, his greatest attribute is his ability to deceive. He always knows more than he lets on and always has some trick up his sleeve. While these books are darker than normal comics it is nowhere as dark as Hellblazer. Hellblazer literally will turn your stomache at times as Constantine fights against the very sickest and depraved evils on earth and hell. This book is a little lighter and uses the team superbly to enjoy magic in fantastic ways.
Have you read any magic story in Vertigo and DC: Quite simply this is an all-star magic book. The best of the best, and many of the fan's favorites have shown up. Even without the incredible story, character development, art, colors, and action you would love this book simply for the promises it makes for future issues if you have read Books of Magic.
I like it because: Quite frankly, everyone stepped up and delivered one hell of a story. Pacing is quick and deliberate without ruining the story. All the characters are involved and intricately important. Like I said before it has an incredible story, character development, art, colors, and action.
The Truthy Truth: Without the background stories I mentioned above, this story would lose a little of its relevance. You need not know about past titles involving these characters for a great read, but having read them will provide a definite bonus.
This is the book I have enjoyed most from DC. The next issue can't come out, fast enough.
