DC Comics is taking a bold approach in its latest relaunch, as more than a dozen series have been canceled in exchange for a fresh new batch of books. A few series are continuing unscathed, but it's hardly business as usual. Superman and Batman have both undergone some huge changes in this post-Convergence DC universe, which make for great reading.
Now it's Wonder Woman's turn — and while Issue #41 does bring some developments, none of them are on the same level as the other two parts of DC's trinity.
The biggest and most noteworthy change is Diana's new costume. We saw promotional images prior to this issue, but seeing it on page is still exciting. It's far different from what we're used to. No exposed skin, no skirt — not even a sword is seen. This Wonder Woman is clothed head-to-toe and sporting dual wrist blades.
It may seem strange at first, but Meredith Finch makes it work within the context of the book. Wonder Woman is embracing her new roles as queen, god of war and superhero — and her new costume reflects that.
Outside of the costume change, we get to see some of the aftermath of Diana's battle with Donna, who is now imprisoned on Mount Olympus. Donna is in a dark place, and Finch does a solid job of having Diana feel sympathetic toward Donna without forgiving her horrible deeds.
This new story arc begins in earnest after Diana puts on her new uniform. She receives word that a troubled youth will blow himself up if he doesn't meet Wonder Woman. She of course agrees to talk to him, but the encounter isn't exactly what it seems.
A brand-new villain is lurking in the shadows, looking to rob Diana of her powers. How exactly that would work remains to be seen, but Finch raises some interesting ideas. This new villain doesn't believe Wonder Woman to be "worthy" of the title "god of war."
Diana is sympathetic and compassionate, in addition to being a battle-hardened warrior. Those first two traits aren't exactly what you would expect from the god of bloodshed and battle — so it will be interesting to see Diana's relatively "good" approach to being god of war and how that may anger some.
Issue #41 serves as a great jumping-on point for new readers. While it might not be as dramatic a shake-up as we've seen in the ongoing Batman and Superman comics, Meredith and David Finch deliver a solid issue that points toward an optimistic new direction for the queen of the Amazons.
Story
★★★☆☆
Art
★★★★☆
Overall
★★★☆☆
More Comic Book Reviews:
Mortal Kombat #24
Batman: Arkham Knight #17
Batman #41
Convergence #8
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