New Avengers #18

Writer – Jonathan Hickman
Artist – Valerio Schiti
Colours – Frank Martin

The book starts off with a nice revelation which everyone knew was coming, but the fact that we see it here was great.  The Black Panther holds council with the dead, specifically all of the previous holders of the Panther mantle, as he cannot seem to come to a decision.  Definitely an interesting bit by Hickman giving us a deeper sense of history to the Panther legacy and one that shows a leader sometimes needs guidance himself.  Doctor Strange and Namor have a humourous little moment and Banner who has just joined the team is starting to learn the ropes.  Meanwhile Tony and Black Swan are having a conversation where he essentially does what he always does when things do not go his way or he cannot figure something out – he threatens her.  That particular moment, as all the others as well, shows just how well Hickman understands the characters he is writing.  All of them sound just as they should and it is great to see such consistency not just throughout the books he writes, but all of the Marvel Universe at the moment.  The recap page is still a fantastic idea as it lets you catch up on the past events in case you forgot something and with Hickman’s books, as they usually tie together, it is sometimes essential.  Good art by Valerio Schiti, as well as a decent filler story before the big showdown with The Great Society by Hickman.

4 out of 5

Captain America #20

Writer – Rick Remender
Artist – Nic Klein
Colours – Dean White

In part four of the Iron Nail, Cap is living the idyllic life, having defeated his enemies, and being with his loved ones.  The problem is that it is too idyllic, too perfect and he realizes it.  So he breaks free from Dr. Mindbubble’s control, has a little throw-down and defeats the man, all the while the Iron Nail takes out Jet Black and initiates the hidden purpose of the helicarrier.  This was another good issue by Remender which is also the only bad thing about the book.  Strange to say obviously, but while every issue has been good, they have not been great.  Every issue has been solid, filled with action and characterization aplenty but even with all of that, they are not overly exciting.  Cap should be an exciting title, one you cannot wait to pick up each and every month and put on the top of your read pile, and so far, even after twenty issues, it has not reached that level.  A good issue nonetheless with an ending that opens up a lot of questions, most especially, why?

3.5 out of 5