The Stolen and the Avenged
Recommended!
The Stolen - In this issue we gain a bit more insight into Jonah's character. Up to this point, the good doctor has pointed out that he is on the brink of madness, with few things in this world to ground him. He abides by a law of his own devising and sticks to a loosely fit moral code. I think this ongoing story is a great way to see him close up, fighting his own demons, as well as struggling to fit in with the world around him. It elegantly mixes severely dark undertones with humor - making it a dramatic and fun read. I am continually impressed with the story and the art's ability to draw my eye from one panel to the next, eagerly anticipating what will happen next. As this next part of the story unfolds we see Jonah on a different mission - one that deviates from his normal "bounty to kill", yet keeps him on a path wrought with death. I am excited to see how the next issue will play out!
The Avenged - While I like this story line less than El Diablo, it certainly has left an impression on me. It is not too often we see why someone is being avenged this soon into the story - but I guess that was necessary given its shortened length. Still, this is speculation on my part, I am not certain the reasons implied are those driving the "Barbary Ghost", but given the context clues, it seems like a fair assumption. Either way, this story offers a different time, different place, and different drama than both of the other New 52 All Star Western tales so far. I believe the story telling for this was very well done, providing everything needed to set up the next and likely final part. Hopefully it will feel like a more complete ending as compared the the El Diablo short.
