When one case closes, another becomes open. Following the events of Asema’s terror, Batman is now on the hunt. The serial killer was working with the organization known as Elixir. Their methods are cold but leave a promise of immortality. Knowing how dangerous this can be, the Dark Knight has them right in his sights. Taking them down won’t be easy. It may call for a miracle when his new partner here is the Penguin!
DETECTIVE COMICS #1098 by Tom Taylor, Lee Garbett, Lee Loughridge, and Wes Abbott heads right into Elixir’s web.
Let’s not delay and jump into the story.
DETECTIVE COMICS #1098 by Tom Taylor, Lee Garbett, Lee Loughridge, and Wes Abbott (DC COMICS)
*** POSSIBLE SPOILER WARNING ***
Taylor throws together a unique trio for this latest outing. Having Penguin added into the field is an easy way to tensions to rise. His dialogue is perfect for balancing out the chase at hand. Cobblepot has his own reasons of interest. Seeing the conflicts with Batman’s way provides the start of a thrilling chapter.
There is also a fair share of secrets revealed. Seeing the beginnings of Exilir come to life offers more into their latest plans. One character that steals the chapter is Harvey Bullock. Taylor’s writing unloads a few new sides of the character. It leads into some thrilling action sequences. The closing sets up an interesting direction. Knowing Batman has gotten himself deep in a hole, it should be an easy out. The last page proves that’s the farthest from the truth. It’s a shocking end to a very engaging chapter.
Garbett and Loughridge kick things off with a great leaping Batman image. The near full page panel unveils the new pairing’s unlikely team-up. Penguin’s mannerisms are a solid break from Batman’s brooding. The art sneaks in a fun segment in-between the drama. Batman’s thought of leaving Penguin has a smaller panel scale, but hits the mark.
Bullock’s time comes with great intensity behind it. His facial expressions in the face of danger show how committed he is to win. Once the Bat and the Penguin arrive, the pace picks up. A fantastic two page splash bring in the action. It leads into a strong closing page. Once an action is taken, it throws everything off course. The last panel is a true reflection of reader reaction as the story concludes.
OVERALL GRADE: 9
The mystery of Elixir causes an unlikely trio in the process. Taylor’s writing escalates the conflicts at hand. Garbett and Loughridge bring out the best between all parties with the art. If the last page is any indication, readers are in for a treat with this story.
Let me know in the comments below your thoughts on Detective Comics #1098. Thanks for reading!