"They say when Elizabeth I ruled England, she maintained the kingdom on a knife's edge using what she'd study of Machiavelli. People remember what she did with her power once she had it: defeating her enemies, guiding her country into a new age. I'm increasingly impressed she ever got there."
Review:
As much as I love Catwoman I'm afraid I haven't been keeping up with her latest series for various reasons, part of it being some uncomfortable bits from Judd Winick's initial New 52 run such as the infamous ending to his first issue of Catwoman forcing herself on Batman (I've had issues with Winick's work for quite sometime and continues to confirm my worries) and as well as messy-ness from what I've heard of Ann Nocenti's run. However, the direction here helmed by author Genevieve Valentine caught my attention and promises something fresh for this classic character.
There's a big retcon with Selina's character that, as far as I remember, has been hinted at in her book for awhile in that she's looking for her biological family. Well, she finds it in the maxi-series Batman Eternal as a daughter of a Gotham gang lord, which fills new readers in enough not to be confused. Thus making this book accessible for not only those who didn't read Batman Eternal (I only got through the first volume myself) but also those who haven't been reading Catwoman's book prior to this volume. Another reason I was interested in this book as it works as a good jumping-on point as well.
Valentine weaves us a gritty gang tale of family and survival, distancing itself from the standard DC superhero fair sans appearances of classic Bat characters. We see a character like Selina Kyle, who tended to be loner most of the time in previous works, struggle to not only be a part of a dangerous family business but lead it as well. We're introduced to her new supporting cast of family as well as enemies and allies such as a new Catwoman who takes up the suit without Selina's permission. Another special aspect of this volume is revealing Catwoman as bisexual with kissing another woman and given Catwoman's iconography this is a huge deal.
It's a departure from the usual cape and cowl fair as well as including simple, realistic art style that works with the story tone and helps tell the story. I especially like the subtle difference in the new Catwoman's ears, reminding me of the costume from The Batman cartoon. Gang Lord Selina utilizing her new power to save Gotham is an interesting worthwhile read, status quo eventually proves all as about now in comics she's back in costume and even sadder Valentine isn't writing anymore but best of luck to Frank Tieri. The story will still continue for next volumes and quite an investment for the Feline Femme Fatale's fans.
Recommendation:
It's obviously for an older crowd but lack of very graphic material makes it a good book for YA shelves as an interesting superhero book and crime thriller. This chapter in Catwoman's life works well as a treat for her old fans and a good recommendation for those who will enjoy the high stakes crime novels.
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