Quick recap: Well, the last time around, I said there were two legendary Arthurs vying for the throne. Silly me… Gillen et al. threw in a third version. “Extra” does not seem to begin to describe this book… but then again, I don’t think they’ve ever shied away from over the top.

Having found a very particular feather in William Shakespeare’s quill, Bridgette led our merry band straight to Robin Hood and his Merry Men. Once again. Kieron Gillen’s play on words and story seem peerless as he weaves together a story that’s bonkers enough to be wholly original and yet grounded in history and fable. “Etymology is the hero we needed all along” is perhaps my favorite line in this issue. With a new MacGuffin now on their hands with their joining of the Merry Men, it would appear that old foes have returned to collect on old debts.

Dan Mora’s work is fantastic as ever, and the steampunk aesthetic of the Victorian Arthur is pretty amazing. Mora’s no stranger to playing with scale and with a series like this, his “go big or go home” sensibilities are every bit a match for Gillen’s concepts. Tamra Bonvillain turns in lovely colorwork as usual, making each page pop. Ed Dukeshire’s lettering keeps the proceedings, even the wordier pages, all easy and smooth which is no mean feat.

Overall, with three Arthurs being kept busy by Robin Hood, Duncan and Co. seemingly shift their focus onto more personal stakes.    

Creative Team: Kieron Gillen (writer), Dan Mora (artist), Tamra Bonvillain (colorist), Ed Dukeshire (letterer)
Publisher: BOOM! Studios
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