How could DC Comics go wrong combining Batwoman with the popular gothic concept explored recently in “The Woman in Black.” Gotham’s crime fighting femme fatale received her own title after carrying Detective Comics after Bruce Wayne / Batman disappeared. “Batwoman Volume 1: Hydrology” combines issues #0 through #5 of her “New 52” series. If anyone remembers far enough back, issue #0 came out a couple of years back and after a long delay the story was expanded upon after DC rebooted it’s Universe. All that waiting was worth it now that you can enjoy the whole arc.
This collection kicks off with the mysterious disappearance of several children in Gotham City. Batwoman finds herself in a battle with the police as she begins her investigation into the abductions. All clues lead to a folk legend about a deceased woman who steals the souls of children after having caused the death of her own. Could this supernatural explanation be the answer to the disappearances or is there something more sinister and tangible at work?
Writers J.H. Williams III and W. Haden Blackman do a great job keeping the reader glued to this book. They have you questioning the real culprit behind the crimes all the way to the end. I’m a sucker for supernatural tales so I was drawn into this immediately. It’s equal parts disturbing and filled with suspense that keeps you turning the pages. The wonderful thing about the book is that it portrays Batwoman as a detective and not just an action hero battling super villains. This story arc hearkens back to the early Detective Comics tales of Batman in the 1930s and 1940s.
I absolutely love the unique art for this collection. J.H. Williams III uses Batwoman as a visual target in each panel. The vivid red of her costume clashes with all the darkness surrounding her, much like she does physically and mentally with her nemeses. He perfectly captures the story in pictures. The illustrations are striking and reflect every disturbing moment penned by himself and Blackman. This truly is some of the most captivating artwork I’ve seen in a while.
A great story mixed with artwork that enhances every panel makes “Batwoman Volume 1: Hydrology” a must read. The character and title is definitely a strong entry into the Batman Family. I believe it’s one of the best books in the Dark Knight’s universe. There’s some mature sexual situations I wouldn’t suggest for young eyes, but from the perspective of story and art this is a winner.
For more articles by Eric Shirey, check out:
Catwoman Volume 1: The Game” Graphic Novel Review
“Justice League International Volume 1: The Signal Masters” Graphic Novel Review
Before Watchmen: Silk Spectre Issue #1 Comic Book Review
