ABSOLUTE WONDER WOMAN #15: Absolute Wonder!

Diana and Batman come face-to-face in this incredible issue as the mark of Hecate has made an appearance in Gotham, bringing the greatest detective and the most powerful witch to solve a series of grisly murders taking place in Gotham.

Creative Team: Kelly Thompson (WRITER), Hayden Sherman (ARTIST and COVER), Jordie Bellaire (COLORIST and COVER), and Becca Carey (LETTERS).

*SPOILERS AHEAD*

The Story:

This is the big crossover event we have been waiting for! The first in the Absolute universe and the moment that ties everything into a larger world at play. Kelly nails the chemistry between Diana and Bruce in such a heartwarming manner. Bruce is typically an angry and hulking figure, but in this issue, as the duo is off to find out what is at play in the mysterious house, there is so much interest between them. There is a softness to Bruce and a curiosity with Diana, and we haven’t seen this before from him. Diana has the same wonder and joy behind her demeanor with Bruce as the two bond, and I think I have my first ship because these two go perfectly! When Diana turns, even this issue isn’t about fighting but appealing to her nature, which Bruce once again can do so well.

The Art and Letters:

Hayden and Jordie don’t miss a beat, capturing Batman’s imposing figure as they have him leaping feet-first from the rooftops. The duo captures the child-like wonder behind the duo as well in their faces as they meet and question each other about their lives and powers. Becca writes the two questioning one another to perfection and crafts the light-hearted mood entirely. It is such a dark but beautiful issue color-wise. There is a disparity in power sets; the action sequences feature close-quarters combat, but it doesn’t feel cramped in any manner.

Final Thoughts:

Absolute Wonder Woman #15 is the first big crossover event that pairs two powerhouses together in such a beautiful and powerful issue. This opens the Absolute universe to a larger world and brings in endless possibilities to come.

Overall Grade: 10/10

For more from Matt at the Hops “Geek” News podcast!