C.O.W.L. Volume 1: Principles of Power: A Massive-Verse Book

BOOKLIST (STARRED) -- What would happen if superheroeshad no one left to fight? Higgins and Siegel attempt to answer that question inthis noir-inspired piece set in 1960s Chicago. With the last of theirarchenemies dead, the unionized superhero group Chicago Organized WorkersLeague, or C.O.W.L., now turns their fight toward City Hall in order to keeptheir funding and stay relevant in these seemingly peaceful times. More cracksform as C.O.W.L. starts to battle itself-superheroes clash with each other overpower and the limelight, while Detective John Pierce fights C.O.W.L. directorWarner in an attempt to reveal secrets and a conspiracy that could take down thewhole organization. In the spirit of books like Watchmen (1987),C.O.W.L. offers an interesting commentary on the moral issues superheroesface and how society might actually react to them. In only one volume, theauthors have already managed to create wonderfully developed characters andflawed but realistic heroes who no longer see the world in black and white. Sucha compelling story would be enough, but Reis elevates the piece even furtherwith a sketch-heavy, dreamlike atmosphere in soft, impressionistic colors,exceptionally expressive figures, and dynamic layouts. A flawless execution anda damned good read.