Two Words: Cousin. Oliver.
Plot & Action: Initially, I didn't think much happened as far as plot progression goes. It seemed to be another example of the Tim/Damian relationship. Tim's plan does seem to progress somehow though. There is slight plot progression and action, but it's not why this issue is so successful to me...
Character Work: ...it's the characterization. This issue knocks it out of the park when it comes to characterization which I happen to enjoy more than plot (why the score isn't too hindered by the lack of plot development). There's a good show of Tim and Dick's relationship, the ever-constant Bruce-Tim comparison, but Damian Wayne stole the show for me. He's become my favorite all-time Robin. As he says in this issue, there's stuff he has to deal with that Tim and Dick don't. It's a true fact and is what makes him such a complex character. The whole notion of showing his motivation to Dick is something that he wouldn't have done a year ago. Seeing that progression was a true treat to me. Fabian does a nice job, without saying it outright, of showing how brotherly the relationship is between Dick, Tim, and Damian. Why don't I want Bruce to come back? Well, there's a fresh appeal to these Batbooks especially when they interact as brothers and sisters working together. Oh, Cousin Oilver? Nice touch.
The Art Team: Marcus To continues to do a great job in this book. I've said every bit of praise I could in past "Red Robin" reviews so I won't repeat myself too much here. However, I'll say again is how I love his age-appropriate characters because it makes them look proper.
Generally Speaking: This book has been the best Batbook since the beginning of 2010 because of the strong consistency. Marcus To's arrival on this book is when things began to turn around from its rough beginning. Despite a writer change, the storylines have focused on Red Robin and his character has been handled very well as he continues to find himself and grow. This issue, Tim shared the spotlight with Damian. As much as I don't like when title characters are upstaged, I really enjoyed the look at the relationship of the trio. It wasn't as good as last issue from a plot sense, but I still liked and recommend this issue.
