Issue #11 of Geiger released this week and delivered on the promise of last issue’s cliffhanger by introducing readers to the other “Glowing Person,” Ashley Arden.

From the beginning of this current story arc, Geiger and Nate have been traveling to Lewiston to investigate the rumor of a second “Glowing Man” who had cured themselves of the dangerous radiation that triggers their “glowing” powers. And Tariq Geiger desperately needs that cure, as he can feel his control over his abilities begin to wane, threatening his life and potentially others in the process. This issue is the beginning of a story that has been building since issue #1. Will Geiger find his cure? Who is this other “Glowing-Man,” if they even exist?

Issue #11 opens with Geiger waking up in a hospital bed, groggy and confused after collapsing after his battle with Junkyard Joe. Geiger learns quickly that the “Glowing Man” he has been looking for is actually a “Glowing Woman” named Ashley “Ash” Arden. Like Geiger, she learned to control her abilities from Dr. Andrei Molotov who equipped her with a protective vest and two boron rods to help contain her radioactive powers. Johns contrasts these similarities between the two characters by positioning them as polar opposites. Where Geiger often is depicted as living on the precipice of rage, Arden is thoughtful and calm. It’s also hinted that Geiger’s temper could be at the root of his problems in coping with his radioactive powers. Geiger is a man driven by grief and lost to depression so that he is powered almost as much by anger as radiation. He isn’t one to easily accept help, and it’s this inner conflict that takes center stage in this issue. It’s this character-first approach that has made Johns such a great storyteller.

Surprisingly, the story of Lewiston is shaping up to be just as important to another creation of Johns and Frank, Junkyard Joe, who joined the cast in the last issue after a brief skirmish with Geiger and Nate. Joe had been reprogrammed by “The Custodian,” his creator, to hunt down Geiger on behalf of President Griffin, the current ruler of the fragmented United States. In his battle with Geiger, Joe’s previous memories seemed to be resurfacing and that journey into Joe’s past continues in Lewiston. The cliffhanger of this issue also promises more revelations for Junkyard Joe to come.

Frank’s art again shines with Junkyard Joe as he imbues the robotic soldier with humanity, conveying so much in just a close-up. This is enhanced by Rob Leigh’s lettering work and sound effect choices for Joe’s movements. Together, they give Junkyard Joe his soul. Brad Anderson’s colors once again perfectly capture the sci-fi western feel of the book, and Geiger’s radioactive powers seem to jump off the page.

This current chapter of Geiger seems to be impactful not only on Geiger’s story, but the overall “Unnamed” story arc, as well, all leading to a potentially explosive end to the series’ first year. I’ve really enjoyed the current volume and its sister series, Redcoat. Both seem to be greatly expanding their worlds at the moment, and it’s been a joy to see this new universe grow with each issue. Of course, it’s not necessary to follow both series, but if you don’t, you’ll be missing out on great stories told by some of the best comics talent working today.

Johns and Frank continue to tell a compelling journey in Geiger that fans of both creators owe it to themselves to pick up. Another winning issue.

Creative Team: Geoff Johns (Writer), Gary Frank (Artist), Brad Anderson (Colorist), and Rob Leigh (Letterer)
Publisher: Ghost Machine/Image Comics
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