Swamp Thing #23.1 Arcane Review

Writer: Charles Soule
Artist: Jesus Saiz

This has been one of the Villains Month issues that I've looked forward to most, as although I've not been as excited about Swamp Thing as I was when Scott Snyder was writing it, it's still been an amazing series. I also have really been looking forward to seeing both Anton and Abby Arcane again.

Plot

Abby Arcane visits her uncle Anton in his own personal hell to try and learn who her mother was.

Review

This was a fantastic issue, and one of the best Villains Month issues so far, being by far the best from this week. Charles Soule did an outstanding job with this issue, as with it using characters that were key to Snyder's run there was always the risk that it wouldn't quite live up to the high standards of what he produced. Character wise Soule matched Snyder easily, showing both Anton and Abby perfectly in their current predicament. Soule also did an amazing job of making this a very gritty and gory issue, as it was full of grotesque sequences that although may seem disturbing to some, added a great atmosphere to the issue.

The art in this story was also amazing, and this is probably the best artwork that I've seen from Jesus Saiz, as although he's done good artwork on this series before, nothing quite as spectacular as his artwork on this issue. The detail was simply outstanding, as everything from the rabbits to Anton's grotesque from looked amazing. I also loved the layout of Saiz' artwork as although it wasn't the most unique style I've ever seen it suited this story perfectly, adding plenty of depth as well as great tone. I also loved how Saiz handled the more grotesque sequences as he didn't shy away from gore, which was needed to make this issue feel as impactful as it did.

The setting for this issue would be the prison that the Parliament of Decay have placed Anton Arcane in, focusing as his own personal hell. Now I won't go into any details over the location as I wouldn't want to spoil the surprise, but I will say what I thought of it. Soule really did a great job here, and I loved how well thought out this place was, as although it wasn't anything spectacular, it worked well with the character which at the end of the day is all that matters. 

The thing that I was most looking forward to in this issue was seeing Abby Arcane return, even if it was only for one issue, as bar Swamp Thing himself she was my favourite character throughout Snyder's run. Soule however got her characteristics spot on, and I loved seeing her utilise her new powers to get what she wants. I also enjoyed the interaction she had with Anton, and how weak she made him look due to their current states. I do however hope that she will eventually return to the series on a permanent basis, though not straight away as Soule is working well on his current story.

This issue would also see parts of both Anton and Abby's origins told throughout, as Abby would demand answers about her mother from Anton. This was actually the part of the story that most appealed to me, as although it went away from the usual type of Swamp Thing storytelling that I enjoy, the tone was perfect, and I loved the slightly disturbing nature of it. I also liked how this would show how Anton has always been a sick individual, and that he always had it in him to be an Avatar of the Rot. I also enjoyed how we saw a more human side to Anton as well, and especially considering the fact that he was rotten then as well.

Final Verdict

This was an amazing issue, and one of the best Swamp Thing issues of recent months, as well as one of the best Villains Month issues so far. The story itself was very gory, also being slightly disturbing which suited the characters perfectly. The dram and suspense throughout was also outstanding, and overall the issue had the perfect tone to it. This makes this issue easy to recommend and I'd especially recommend it to any Swamp Thing or Arcane fans.

Rating: 10/10

Swamp Thing #19 Review

Writer: Charles Soule

Artist: Kano

I've gradually became a bigger fan of Swamp Thing since I bought Swamp Thing: Raise Them Bones, and then started getting the series from Rotworld, and although I was disappointed with the ending of Rotworld, Scott Snyder compinsated with his final issue on the series (Swamp Thing #18), and I was sad to see him leave the series. I was in two minds as to whether or not I was going to continue getting the series, but decided that I'd give it a try, hoping that the change in creative team doesn't mean a change in quality.

Plot

Swamp Thing (Alec Holland) is tasked with protecting the Green, even if that leads to the death of humans. Conflicted with this Swamp Thing travels to Metropolis to get advice from Superman, but bumps into Scarecrow instead.

Review

This was a brilliant starting issue for the new creative team, and Charles Soule did a fantastic job of introducing Swamp Thing in a different style of story, whilst also showing the effects that Rotworld has had on him. I have to say I have never read anything that Soule has written before, and although I've heard that his Twenty Seven series was meant to be good, having not read it myself I didn't know what to expect from his writing. Although I still much prefer the way Snyder wrote the series (even the way he started his run), I do however like that Soule has taken Swamp Thing in a different direction, as it makes Snyder's run feel complete, whilst also making the the series as a whole feel unique (and I never expected Soule to be better than Snyder anyway). I also liked how Soule continued to show that there were lots of emotions in Alec, whilst also showing that he's not quite as driven as he used to be, which was nice, as it shows the depth of the character.

The art in this issue was overall brilliant, and although I still much prefer Yanick Paquette's art (I doubt anyone will draw Swamp Thing better than Paquette), this has probably been the next best. Although I was unfamiliar with Soule's work, I am familiar with Kano's, and although it's still not as familiar as with work from other artists, the art I have seen from Kano (The Immortal Iron Fist) has been brilliant, and I was happy to hear that he'd be working on this series. Kano's artwork was simply brilliant, and although there were a few things that I was initially concerned about at first glance, whilst reading through the entire issue I started to appreciate the art, and the style that Kano brings. The detail was also fantastic, as everything looks so smooth, and clear, and even when the characters are at a distance, Kano's still drew them in a way that makes them stand out, and look realistic. I especially liked how Kano drew the scenery, as everything looked amazing, and whether Swamp Thing was in the Sudan desert, or Metropolis, it always looked fabulous (although I personally preferred the way Kano drew the desert). The only character that I wasn't as fond of drawn by Kano was the Scarecrow, as although I've seen worse, this is still by far the best depiction of the character. In saying that Kano did do a brilliant job of showing the Scarecrow's emotions, as a lot of artists don't manage to do that.

The two things that I loved most about this issue was that it was very reader friendly, being the perfect starting point for new readers (although you expect that from new writers), and that it explored the Green more. Whilst Snyder worked on the series the story was heavily revolved around the Green, and the Rot, but he never really took a great lot of time to actually explore the nature of it, showing the overall depth of the Green. There was however one small negative side to this, and that was the monologue from Alec. I was actually in two minds about it, as it was very interesting, and explored the concept brilliantly, but at the same time it did slow the issue down a bit, which was a bit disappointing, but overall it wasn't a terrible thing.

Story wise the best thing about this issue was that we got to see a moral dilemma within Alec, as he knows what he's doing isn't good for humanity, but at the same time he needs to preserve the Green, and is meant to keep it as natural as possible. Although I personally see this change in Swamp Things behaviour as a bit soon, I do like that it's showing that Swamp Thing'Alec's taking his role as the avatar for the Green very seriously, but I especially loved that the main focus was that at the end of the day he was still a man (even if not technically).

Metropolis was beautiful in this issue, and although I preferred the way Kano drew the desert, as it looked much more edgy, I did however still think that the way he drew the flowers in the Metropolis Botanical Gardens was beautiful. That was another thing that I really liked, that unlike most Metropolis set stories that have the characters going around the streets, this one had it all set in a Botanical Garden, which played right into Swamp Thing's hands, making the series still feel more centred around him.

Scarecrows appearance in this story was brilliant, and although I said I had minor problems with the way Kano drew the character, I had not problems with the way Soule wrote him. What I loved most about Scarecrows appearance was that Soule added him in a way that plays to the Swamp Thing character, having him collecting plants for his Fear Toxin. This lead to a brilliant conversation between Scarecrow and Alec, which was brilliant, and very dramatic, and what really made this sequence as good as it was. I did however find it curious that Scarecrow was in Metropolis, but as he said the flowers he was looking for are rare, so probably don't grow in Gotham City, plus it's not unusual for villains to change scenery once in a while. Another thing I liked about Scarecrows appearance was that it acknowledged his part in Justice League of America #2, showing that the whole DCU is connected, and that the timelines are in sync.

Superman's appearance was actually a bit disappointing, as he didn't really appear at all. I do however look forward to seeing him feature more as the story progresses, and found it interesting that Solue has featured Superman in his first issue, just like Snyder did.

Final Verdict

This was a brilliant start for the new creative team, but it still wasn't quite as good as the work Snyder, and Paquette produced on the series, but it's still early days, and I'm sure Soule, and Kano will become a brilliant team. This issue was very interesting, and although it wasn't as fun as it could have been, it did show some fun elements, which was nice, as mostly Swamp Thing is a dark story, wit ton's of emotion (although this still had emotion). I would easily recommend this to both current Swamp Thing readers that are sceptical over the new creative teams, and new readers wondering if this story's a good jumping on point (which it is).

Rating: 4/5

Swamp Thing #18 Review

Writer: Scott Snyder
Artist: Yanick Paquette

This has been one of my favourite series out at this moment, and my second favourite from DC. I have been following this series since the start of Rotworld (also picking up Vol. 1, and planing on getting Vol. 2 of the TPB) and have really enjoyed it. Unfortunately the last issue was catastrophically poor, and I was dreading that Scott Snyder's fantastic run on this series would end badly, but fortunately it hasn't.

Plot

The Parliament of Decay has sent Swamp Thing back in time, and gives him the chance to stop Anton Arcane once and for all, but it means sacrificing Abby.

Review

WARNING: THERE MAY BE THE ODD SPOILER IN MY REVIEW!

What a fabulous ending to a phenomenal run. Although I haven't read the entire run from Scott Snyder I have loved nearly every issue I have, and have heard good things about the others, so it was nice to see his run end this way. This wasn't just a brilliant issue, but in my opinion it's the best in the series so far (at least from what I've read), and a fitting end to Snyder's story. It was nice to see Snyder give us a very emotional story for his final issue, as the thing I loved the most about the first volume of this series was the emotion shown between Alec, and Abby. I also liked that this story kind of reflected the fact that Snyder, and Yanick Paquette were leaving the series, as the story ended showing that this is the end of his story, but still open for someone to take over. I also like that like Snyder leaving the series, that someone was leaving Swamp Thing.

I was ecstatic that Yanick Paquette was working on the art for this issue, and even more considering the atrocious art in the last issue. Anyway taking that fact aside, Paquette was the artist that started this series with Snyder, so if anyone's going to finish his run at the same time, it's fitting that it's Paquette. Besides that Paquette's art on this series has been the best Swamp Thing art that I have ever seen, and Kano will have to do something extremely phenomenal to beat it. Paquette's art is nothing short of beautiful, and I love the detail, and emotion that he puts into it. The design, and layout in Paquette's artwork is also brilliant, as it shows more of the emotion. Nathan Fairbairn's colours were also fantastic, and made Paquette's artwork look even more beautiful.

I loved that we got to see Swamp Thing fight Anton Arcane. To be honest this issue in general was everything that the last issue should have been, as to have a poor ending to a story, followed by a killer epilogue issue isn't what I want as a reader. Don't get me wrong, I'll, take what I can get, and would rather this issue be brilliant, then both be poor, but it doesn't feel right knowing that the epilogue was better than the finale. Anyway back to the fight. The fight was fantastic, and Snyder, and Paquette really just gave it their all to show the conviction in Alec, and the twisted thoughts in Arcane.

My favourite part in this issue had to be the sequence between Alec, and Abby. As I said earlier one of the things I love about this series has been the development of their relationship, and how Alec has been willing to die to save Abby. This however had to be the most emotional, as Abby had to sacrifice herself to stop Arcane, and save the world. Just the way Alec reacted to having to kill Abby lit a huge fire under him, and made his rage against Arcane even grater. It was however nice to see Abby as the avatar of the Rot was brilliant, and she looked awesome.

It was also nice to see the Parliament of Trees in this issue. The Parliament has been the main backing for Alec in this series, and although he's mainly been doing it to stop Arcane, and save Abby, he's had a lot of support so it was nice to see them. The way they supported Alec in his hour of grief was nice, and it was also nice that they didn't push him into staying as Swamp Thing.

The future for Alec, and Abby? The way this issue ended it doesn't look like Alec, and Abby will be seeing each other anytime soon, maybe not ever, which is a shame. The story between the two characters has been really touching, and a brilliant read, but it's probably fitting that the story's ended for a while, with the departure of Snyder, and Paquette. Also the future of Alec as Swamp Thing should be interesting, as before he's had his love for Abby driving him, whereas now that he's not likely to see her anytime soon will we see a change in big green? All this has me hooked on the series, as I was actually considering dropping the series when Snyder, and Paquette left, but I'll probably give the new creative team of Charles Soule, and Kano a chance, even if it's just to see what happens.

Snyder, and Paquette were a brilliant creative team, and it will be sad to see them leave, but I'm looking forward to seeing what Soule, and Kano can do with the series.

Final Verdict

A brilliant ending, to a fabulous run. This was probably the most emotional issue in the series so far, and in my opinion the best. I would highly recommend both this issue, and the entire series, and am looking forward to seeing what Soule, and Kano do with the series.

Rating: 5/5

Swamp Thing #17 Review

Writers: Scott Snyder & Jeff Lemire
Artist: Andy Belanger

WARNING: MAY SPOIL ANIMAL MAN #17!
(Will still try to avoid SPOILING, but just in case you've been warned)

I have been following this series since the start of Rotworld, and have also read the first volume, Swamp Thing: Raise Them Bones. I have thoroughly enjoyed reading this series and am sad to see the story end, and Scott Snyder depart the series.

Plot

This issue sees the continuation of Swamp Thing, and Animal Man's fight against the Rot, and following Anton Arcane actions at the end of Animal Man #17, Animal Man, and Swamp Thing aren't going to hold back.

Review

This issue was actually a bit disappointing, and the worst Swamp Thing issue I have read so far. I was expecting so much in this issue, especially after the Animal Man #17 being brilliant.Despite this Scott Snyder and Jeff Lemire did a decent job of ending this story, and they did it in a way that leaves the reader asking questions, and wanting more, which I always like. Although I liked the questions and the fact the doors been left open, I still think that the issue went a long a little too quickly, and that the end came a bit too sudden.

Although the art in this issue wasn't as bad, it wasn't to my taste, and I personally didn't like it. It's bad enough that Yanick Paquette isn't drawing this issue, but I'd have still hoped that DC would have put a decent artist on it, as I'd have been more than happy to see Marco Rudy who's done most of the art in Paquette's absence do the art for this issue, especially considering it's the finale. At the same time it could have been much worse, and I have to thank Andy Belanger for stepping in as he did make a very good effort, and there will be some people that like his art. I however thought that his cartoon style didn't suit either Swamp Thing or Animal Man, and that some of the art looked too stiff, making the more elaborate things created by the Rot, and Green look unrealistic. It was also a let down as the art from Steve Pugh, and Timothy Green II in Animal Man #17 was outstanding.

The issue started very dramatically, with both Swamp Thing, and Animal Man in the thick of battle. Although it's still possible to read this issue without reading Animal Man #17, the introduction makes it hard, and can easily confuse people who haven't read Animal Man #17. It also has both Swamp Thing and Animal Man reeling from the shocking end of Animal Man #17. I really liked this as it gave Arcane a chance, as after Swamp Thing and Animal Man coming close to success at the end of Animal Man #17, continuing the fight otherwise would make the story drag. This also showed more of Swamp Thing, and Animal Man's feelings, and if anything gave them more drive to stop Arcane, even if slightly hindered.

I liked that everyone was evenly involved in this issue, and that despite Swamp Thing, Animal Man, and Arcane taking center stage, they still played a vital part. I especially liked seeing Barbara Gordon involved in this issue, as she's played a vital role in helping Swamp Thing throughout the last few issues. It was also interesting seeing both Swamp Thing and Animal Man's armies come together, as although they've encountered each other previously not all of the others will have.

The thing I've found most interesting about this story is that despite being converted by the Rot, Batman still behind the master plan. There will be some people that will think that the story should have just been left to have Swamp Thing and Animal Man come up with a plan, but considering all they've been through it'd be hard. Also Batman lives to make contingency plans for any given scenario, so it was natural for Batman to start something that Swamp Thing could finish. It is however also nice that the design is based on Swamp Things old work.

WARNING: NEXT PARAGRAPH CONTAINS A SMALL SPOILER!

I also enjoyed seeing the Parliament of the Rot in this issue, as I personally haven't seen them, and have only seen the Parliament of the Green. They may have appeared in previous Swamp Thing, or Animal Man issues, but I don't know, and it was new to me. What was interesting about their appearance was that it showed that their objectives and goals weren't the same as Arcane's, and that they wanted to help Swamp Thing, and Animal Man. They could easily have been setting a trap for Swamp Thing, and Animal Man, but I hope not, as I like the idea of a rogue agent, not following his chosen path, something which suits Arcane's character perfectly. It will however be interesting to see how this pans out, and where it leaves the future of both this series, and Animal Man.

Final Verdict

This was a decent end to the Rotworld crossover, but was still disappointing. I wouldn't recommend it to newer readers, as it would give you a bad image of the series, which is brilliant, so I'd recommend them waiting till the next issue, or even the issue after that when there's a new writer meaning a fresh start. I'd still however recommend the series overall to newer readers, and would also recommend this issue to anyone who's been following the series, or Rotworld already.

Rating: 3.5/5

Animal Man #17 Review

Writers: Jeff Lemire & Scott Snyder
Artists: Steve Pugh & Timothy Green II

I haven't been following this series, but after joining Swamp Thing since the start of Rotworld, I thought that I'd get this which ties-in with Swamp Thing as a finale to Rotworld.

Plot

This issue sees the beginning of the final battle against the Rot, and both Animal Man, and Swamp Thing have gathered followers to help in their battle.

Review

This was a very good issue and Jeff Lemire and Scott Snyder did a brilliant job of writing it. It cant be easy collaborating during a crossover, as both writers need to create something that fits with both series, and the overall story, whilst keeping their series the way they want them. This crossover only has two issues mainly involved in it, so it's not quite as hard, but I still have to admire what both writers have done, as this crossover has been very good, and I've liked this part so much that I'm considering going back and getting the remaining Animal Man Rotworld issues.

The art in this issue was amazing, and both Steve Pugh, and Timothy Green II did a fantastic job, although I personally preferred Pugh's art. The detail in both artists artwork is phenomenal, and although there are a few minor imperfections, it can easily be forgiven. Pugh does an amazing job of drawing the main part of the story, and he makes Animal Man, and the Red, as well as other characters like Swamp Thing, and Frankenstein look amazing, and his art in this issue is making me want to read the other Animal Man issues even more. I've seen some of Green II's art in the past, and although I've liked it, I've not loved it. I did however nearly love his art in this issue, as I didn't expect him to draw Swamp Thing as good as he did, but he proved me wrong, and although I still prefer both Pugh's drawing of Swamp Thing, as well as his art overall, I will gladly read a comic with Green II's art in it in the future.

The battle itself was epic, and really showed the desperation on all the people involved. I liked that most of the DC superheroes have been effected by the Rot, and although previous issues of Swamp Thing (and I'm sure Animal Man also showed the same) has shown some of earths heroes gruesomely fighting against former friends it was nice to see the exact scale of it.

It was really interesting seeing Animal Man's reaction once he knows that Swamp Thing is also involved in this fight, as they both started this story together, so it's only fitting that they finish it together. What I really liked though was that being a new reader I could still see character development which is probably nothing special to regular readers, as the issue really shows the emotions that Animal Man feels. I especially loved that like Swamp Thing, Animal Man has someone that Anton Arcane has captured, and desperately wants back, in his case his daughter. It's nice that it's his daughter cause if it was his wife or girlfriend it would be too similar too Swamp Thing, and the overall common interest wouldn't feel quite as strong.

I also liked seeing Frankenstein in this issue. I've been considering getting Justice League Dark lately, which is also written by Lemire, so seeing one of their members in this issue was nice. Although I've never read him in the past I liked the look of him since the New 52, and have also been considering getting his own ongoing series, and will now probably get the Rotworld tie-ins (even though they'll probably have a minor effect to the overall crossover). I think he was used brilliantly in this issue, and like Swamp Thing's had Barbara Gordon as a good companion as of late, Frankenstein is a good companion for Animal Man. He really showed a lot of fight in this issue, and I am more interested in the character now than I was before this issue.

It was also nice to see Steel in this issue, and especially considering he's in a more recognizable costume. I hope that he gets this sometime soon in the present, as the suit he's worn in Action Comics makes him look a bit amateurish. He had an interesting role in this issue, but I didn't understand why he was there. He maybe was in previous Animal Man Rotworld issues, but having not read them I don't know. His lack of interaction with any other characters also doesn't help answer this question. If you know please tell me in the comments section.

Final Verdict

This was a very good issue, and starts the Rotworld finale off brilliantly. I would recommend this issue to any reader, new or old, and would defiantly recommend it to anyone that's been following Rotworld, even if like me you just follow Swamp Thing.

Rating: 4.5/5

Swamp Thing #16 Review

Writer: Scott Snyder

Artist: Yanick Paquette

I have loved what I've read of this series so far, and Scott Snyder has done an excellent job, and made me love Swamp Thing as a character, something I found it hard to do prior to this. Although the Rotworld storyline hasn't been as brilliant as the first storyline, it has still been fantastic, and I will be sad when Snyder leaves the series.

Plot

This issue sees Barbara Gordon take Swamp Thing to Arkham Asylum, where all the survivors of Gotham City are. She shows him something that Batman was working on, based on Alec's work. The fate of Abby Arcane is also revealed, and The Green finally fights back.

Review

This was a brilliant issue, and my favourite of the storyline so far. Although the story's been good so far, I did think it was going a bit slow, and the last issue was a big disappointment. This issue however makes up for that, as it shows the final build up before the big finally, and Snyder couldn't have done it any better. What I've also liked about Snyder's writing throughout this storyline is that he's not left Abby out of the picture, and also shows that Alec is still thinking about her. I've also liked how we get to see Arkham Asylum in this issue, as my main complain for the last issue wasn't seeing Gotham City affected by The Rot. I hope that Snyder can conclude this brilliantly in the two part finally alongside Animal Man #16, and that he concludes his run even better, and hopefully in a similar manner as he started it.

The art on this issue was terrific, and Yanick Paquette did a fantastic job. Although Marco Rudy did a brilliant job, in my opinion there isn't anyone that can draw Swamp Thing better than Paquette (he was one of the main reasons I tried this series). The detail in Paquette's art is phenomenal, and it shows the gore, and decay brilliantly. I also loved how Paquette drew all the supporting characters in this issue, as you can easily tell who the character is, even if they've been infected by the Rot. Rotworld itself continues to look amazing, as it kind of looks like the desert leading up to the Dark Tower in Stephen King's Dark Tower novels, but looks more gory. The cover was also brilliant, and I loved how it was laid out, with Barbara as Man-Bat behind Swamp Thing, and the giant penny showing that they're in the Batcave.

The issue stars just before Swamp Things final battle with the Rot, and quickly goes back to the end of the previous issue. During the first part it shows Superman affected by the Rot. This is the only thing I found questionable about this issue, as I find it hard to believe that Superman could be affected by the Rot unless Kryptonite was involved. I may have missed something in a previous issue, or it might be as simple as Kryptonite was involved, but it did make me question it. Besides that this is a big blow as although it was stated that all the major superhero's had been turned into Rot monsters, the stipulations that causes isn't totally apparent until you see it. I would have however liked to have seen a bit more of Superman as he didn't do anything besides make an appearance, but I hope that he will next issues.

It was also revealed by Barbara that some of Gotham's villains that wither had a connection to one of the elements (Green or Red), and the ones who had a resistance to death (i.e. Mr. Freeze) were recruited to help the citizens of Gotham, with a bogus threat that they had an explosive that would go off if the population dropped bellow a certain number. Although they haven't done anything yet this is still an interesting addition, as I'd never have thought that the villains would help Batman's cause, although given the situations it makes total sense, even if they didn't think they had explosives in them.

Villains Recruited to the Green

As I said earlier in my review I've enjoyed that Abby has continued to play a vital supporting role in this story, and have loved her interactions with Anton Arcane. Her appearance in this issue was also probably the best, and most shocking yet, as Abby decides to take action. Due to Abby's good nature it's easy to forget that like Anton, and William Arcane, she's got a connection to the Rot, and that she was initially meant to be they're equivalent to Swamp Thing. There was also a shocking end to this part of the story, and although I won't spoil it, it added ton's of suspense, and is making me look forward to the next issue even more than I already was.

Abby's Fate

Final Verdict

A tremendously good issue, and the best in the Green Kingdom part of Rotworld so far. I would highly recommend it, as it is full of suspense, and drama, and I am really looking forward to the two part conclusion next month.

Rating: 5/5

Swamp Thing #15 Review

Writer: Scott Snyder
Artist: Marco Rudy

This series has been one of the best New 52 series I've found of late. After reading tremendous things about this series and after having it recommended I got the first volume of the series in trade paperback and loved it. I have recently caught up on the current Rotworld and although it's not quite as good as the first story it's still been an amazing read.

Plot

This issue sees Swamp Thing and Deadman confronted by William Arcane whilst travelling to Gotham City. This issue also reveals the fate of Abby Arcane, as well as featuring Anton Arcane and a weird Rot Batman like character.

Review

A great issue and I've been thoroughly enjoying this story so far. Although not as good as the last issue this was still a brilliant issue and Scott Snyder continues to work his magic on this series. I love how he's managed to keep Abby involved in the story whilst progressing Swamp Thing's journey. I also enjoyed how Snyder brought the Arcane's, especially William into this story, and look forward to seeing they bring to the story. I will talk more about the return of the Arcane's further on in my review. I've also loved how Snyder's managed to continue showing Swamp Thing's emotions towards Abby in this story whilst keeping him on his journey to defeat the Rot. I've also liked how Snyder's managed to keep Deadman as a key character in this series whilst keeping the focus mainly on Swamp Thing, Abby, and the Arcanes.

The art from Marco Rudy in this issue was good but I'm always a little disappointed when Yanick Paquette isn't doing the art on this series. Nothing against Rudy, he's the next best artist to have worked on this series, and he produces amazing art. I love how he's put more detail than others into the close-ups of Swamp Thing but also dislike the lack of detail in the panels with characters in the distance. I also like how he's drawn both Abby and William Arcane as well as the Rot creatures. It's also nice to see that Rudy incorporates ton's of great facial expressions in the characters which I like as I always love when an artist can show the character's emotions.

The way this issue started with William coming out of the water on a Rot version of Starro. I also loved that William was wielding Aquaman's Trident which was very cool. The return of William in this issue was a nice as I enjoyed him as a villain during the first volume and was a slightly disappointed not to have seen him in this story until now. Having not read issues 8-12 I don't know how he left the series but I'm happy to see him back, as he was there since the start and I love how this child villain is as evil as some of the well known villains and much better than the child versions of the Hellfire Club should have been let alone are.

The thing I enjoyed the most about this issue was that we got to see a little more about what's happened to Abby as well as the return of Anton Arcane. I've not known much about Anton as a villain having not read any issues featuring him, but have heard that he's a good villain and a worthy foe for Swamp Thing. I have however loved the Abby character, and her relationship with Holland has been what I've enjoyed most throughout this series. I don't usually care for romantic relationships in comics, neither liking or disliking them, but Snyder has done an amazing job of bringing these two characters together who should oppose each other (as Holland is an wielder of The Green, and Abby of the Rot). It was also interesting seeing Abby and Anton interact with each other as besides being family they both have a huge connection to the Rot.

SMALL SPOILER AHEAD!

Near the end of the issue it's revealed that Batman has been infected by the Rot. Another Bat like creature, similar to Man-Bat also appears and it was interesting, and learning the identity of the creature was even more interesting. I won't spoil who the creature is and apologise in advance if the picture to the right spoils the identity of the character. I was slightly disappointed not to have seen a bit more of Gotham in this issue as I was looking forward to seeing Gotham after the Rot's infected it.

Deadman's involvement in this issue was also brilliant and I've loved how Snyder's managed to keep him involved in the story so far. The drastic decision made by Deadman in this issue was also interesting and I'm looking forward to seeing what the repercussions of this decision affect the future of Deadman and this story.

Final Verdict

Although slightly poorer than the last issue this was still a very good issue and the story has been brilliant. I would recommend this to anyone who's a fan of Swamp Thing or the series so far. I would also recommend this issue to newer readers but not on it's own. You'd need to buy issues 13 and 14 to appreciate the story.

Rating: 4/5

Swamp Thing #14

Writer: Scott Snyder

Artist: Yanick Paquette

After reading Scott Snyder brilliant work on Swamp Thing Vol. 1: Raise Them Bones as well as his Batman series I decided to continue getting the Swamp Thing series starting last issue which began Swamp Things part in the Rotworld crossover (if you discount the Prelude).

Plot

The fight between Swamp Thing (Alec Holland), Poison Ivy and Deadman against the zombie Teen Titans continues but due to being so close to the Parliament of Trees Swamp Thing has the power of the Green on his side like never before turning into a giant Swamp Thing. After the battle Swamp Thing along with Deadman decides to defeat the Rot once and for all whilst Ivy protects the Parliament.

Review

This was a brilliant issue and I am loving both Swamp Thing more and more with each issue. Snyder also continues his amazingly high standard of writing and I love how he eases the reader into the issue by having the fight from the last issue continuing on page two, with the first page having Holland talking about a recurring nightmare. This means that people who have missed part one should be able to understand this issue easily. Snyder has also done a brilliant job at continuing to develop the character of Swamp Thing and his newish relationship with Ivy and Deadman. I also love that Holland is still thinking about Abby realising that his life isn't worth living without her.

Yanick Paquette continues to produce some of the best artwork I have ever seen on this issue and is brilliant at drawing all the different characters and scenery beautifully whilst keeping characteristics and uniqueness to the setting. I also enjoyed all the different styles of Swamp Thing throughout this issue and loved how on the first page and later in the issue we got to see a younger Swamp Thing in the Boy of Leaves. My favourite picture throughout the entire issue had to be the Giant Swamp Thing (pictured right) which was simply astonishing as due to his size there is a lot more room to show off even more detail than Paquette has previously shown on the character. I also loved the reaction on the Rot minions faces when they see this giant foot coming to squash them. Nathan Fairbairn has also continued to produce brilliant colours on this series and I still think they are the best colours to go with Paquette's art.

I loved seeing Swamp Thing getting help from the Parliament of Trees in this issue as it shows how much it means to rid the Rots influence from the world and that Swamp Thing is their last hope so they will help him anyway they can. I was happy to see that the Parliament have great faith in Holland, were other groups of higher beings like Guardians of the Universe for example would have no faith in their warrior and without them giving faith why should anyone else.

I was happy to see the continuation of Swamp Thing, Ivy and Deadman's fight against the zombie Teen Titans which I'd been looking forward to since the end of last issue. I did however feel that it was a bit short and would have liked to have seen it play out for a bit longer. I was happy to see that there was purpose in making the fight appear to be in the Titans favour because Swamp Thing to start of was weak and hoping to get through to any good that is left in the Titans to see if he can prevent killing them. I also loved when Swamp Thing realises he's at a lost cause trying to save the Titans and when the Parliament offer him more power he uses it wisely to defeat the Titans and the Rot minions.

 

I also loved the added side story showing a nightmare that is shared between a younger Holland as Boy of Leaves and Abby who both dream about going to the giant doors of of a castle before waking up. I liked this because it shows that Holland's feeling that Abby may still be alive might be true as they appear to have a huge spiritual connection to one another.

It was also nice to see some of the things that Swamp Thing created using his powers like turning himself big, having wings in a previous issue and creating a boat to cross a river in this issue. I also liked how Swamp Thing noted the drain this caused on his powers and that he would need to keep the remainder of his strength in case they needed to fight.

I was also very happy to see the return of not just Anton Arcane but William Arcane also. With their return this crossover should be even more interesting and I'm looking forward to seeing exactly what they have in store for Swamp Thing and anyone else who steps in their way.

Final Verdict

A brilliant continuation to the Rotworld story with great art, great story telling and great imagination. I would highly recommend both this and the previous issue in this crossover as it's shaping up to be one of the best crossovers of the year and I for one am really looking forward to see what happens next issue.

Rating: 5/5

Swamp Thing #13

Writer: Scott Snyder
Artist: Yanick Paquette

I was never a Swamp Thing fan and the Brightest Day story arc along with the Brightest Day Aftermath: The Search for Swamp Thing put me off him even more so I didn't get the series when The New 52 started. After hearing brilliant things about the series and seeing how good a writer Scott Snyder is after reading the current Batman series I decided to get Swamp Thing Vol. 1: Raise Them Bones which I thoroughly and have since decided to get the series since this issue.

Plot

This issue starts with Swamp Thing (Alec Holland) getting a hostile greeting form Poison Ivy and Deadman after returning from the Rot a year after entering (not realising that a year has passed). Once he eventually proves who he is he is taken to the Parliament of Trees the only place the Green still resides where he speaks to the former Swamp Things about the events that have transpired in his absence, whilst also asking about what has happened to Abby Arcane.

Review

A brilliant issue and Snyder is continuing to prove just how good a writer he is. He has put so much character development into the issues I've read and he continues it in this issue with Holland, now back from the Rot having not realised that a year has passed, still only caring about what has happened to Abby since he's been away. I do however feel that this issue isn't very user friendly as it drops you in at the start with Ivy and Deadman giving Holland a hostile welcome home (not believing he's who he says he is) and although it explains he's been away a year and that I worked out what has happened not necessarily every read will and could easily get confused reading this issue, having not read the series before. Besides that this was still a very good issue and Snyder has yet again done a brilliant job on with this character.

The art in this issue was amazing and Yanick Paquette has once again done a superb job of bringing Snyder's story to life. The detail in Paquette's art is simply astonishing whether he's drawing Ivy, Deadman, the Parliament of Trees (picture left) or Swamp Thing himself. Nathan Fairbairn also added great colour to this issue and his colours go very well with Paquette's art making it look even more beautiful than it already is whilst making it stand out at the same time. I also like the contrasts in colour between the Green areas (the Parliament) and the Rot areas (the rest of the world) as you can tell what effect Holland's absence along with the Rot's increase in power has done to the world.

I was in two minds about Holland's meeting with the former Swamp Thing's at the Parliament of Trees as although it gave insight into what has happened in Holland's absence, I did think that it was a bit boring and dragged out the end of this amazing issue.

I was happy to see Ivy and Deadman in this issue and think Ivy especially is a brilliant addition to this story line due to her connection to the plants. I love Ivy's suit in this issue but question about what happened to the suit she was wearing in Birds of Prey and Detective Comics which was also nice. I think however the change in suit is to reflect her connection to the Green more and that the one year difference will probably be after the events of Birds of Prey and Detective Comics. Deadman's involvement in this story line was also a nice addition and I am happy to see him in a comic once again as I haven't seen him since Brightest Day (he featured in DC Universe Presents but I never read that). I also think he will add a cooler head towards their group as Holland is probably still trying to get to grips with the fact he's been gone for a year and Ivy will be angry about the reduction of plants since the Green's influence over the world has dramatically dropped.

The start of the battle between Holland, Ivy and Deadman against the Teen Titans was brilliant and I am looking forward to seeing it progress in issue 14. The zombie look to the Teen Titans was also brilliant and the bloating in Red Robin's face and Wonder Girl's evil face was very detailed and looked very cool. There were a couple of small things like the size of Kid Flash's legs didn't look right but besides that I loved the zombie Titans.

I am also looking forward to seeing if previous Swamp Thing villains like William Arcane or Anton Arcane will make an appearance in this story as their connection to the Rot is too strong for them not to. I am also looking forward to seeing if the fate of Abby that was revealed in this issue is true and if so how that will effect the series.

Final Verdict

A brilliant issue and a great start to the Rotworld story. The only thing that lets drops the rating of this issue is that it isn't totally new reader friendly (although you can work out what has happened), and Holland's conversation with the former Swamp Things dragged on a bit. Besides that this was still a very good issue and I would highly recommend it.

Rating: 4.5/5

Swamp Thing Volume 1: Raise Them Bones

Writer: Scott Snyder
Artists: Yanick Paquette & Marco Rudy

I have never really been a Swamp Thing fan and his role in the Brightest Day story arc and the Brightest Day Aftermath: The Search for Swamp Thing put me off him even more so didn't get the series when The New 52 started. Since then I have heard nothing but good news about the series and read tones of great reviews praising it, and after finding out just how good a writer Scott Snyder could be whilst reading Batman considered getting this book. It was however when I had a flip through it in a local shop I decided to buy it after being reminded of how beautiful Yanick Paquette's art was.

Plot

This story sees how Dr. Alec Holland is copping with life after being back from the dead and how he is dealing with the constant presence of the Green hanging over him. Superman visits Holland to tell him that the different groups of animals like birds, cattle and fish are dying spontaneously and thinks Swamp Thing could help, but Holland says he won't become Swamp Thing again. A former Swamp Thing who now resides at the Parliament of Trees comes to tell Holland that there is a danger coming and that Holland is the only one who can stop it. Holland still refuses to become Swamp Thing and the former Swamp Thing leaves him with a final warning, to stay away from the blond haired woman in his dreams. Unfortunately Holland runs in to the blond haired woman named Abby Arcane who tells him of her brother William who hold the power of the the Rot. Holland decides to help Abby and the two go of in search of William before he causes proper damage.

Review

I really enjoyed this book and it was a brilliant start to the Swamp Thing story. Snyder has really done some magic on this book and in my opinion it is the best thing he has written. I just love how you can feel the emotions running through Holland as this is a man who has had everything taken from him by the Green and has every right to want nothing to do with it but at the same time wanting to do what is right.

The art throughout this book was fantastic whether from Paquette or Marco Rudy, although Paquette's was by far better. I just loved all the detail throughout this book as with all the different things in the background it would be easy to be lazy and only put detail on the focus points but both artists don't do that and you can really feel the life throughout this book when we see the Green and the decay when we see the Rot. Nathan Fairbairn along with David Baron, and Val Staples added tones of colour and Fairbairn's in particular made Paquette's art look more beautiful, whilst adding mood to the darker sequences. Another thing I liked about this book which is a thing I like about a lot of the DC series' especially since the New 52 is the layout as it is brilliant and adds uniqueness to the series.

This book started off a little slow but I expected that from a new series, although near the end of the first issue it picked up a lot of pace and the rest of the book was very exciting. Superman's appearance, along with the glimpse of Batman and Aquaman during the first issue was also a nice touch and really added a warming feel to a new reader. I also liked the conversation between the two and loved how Superman tells Holland that he knows how hard it is to come back from the dead.

The chemistry between Holland and Abby throughout this book was amazing and one of the main things I liked. At certain points I didn't know whether to feel sorry for Abby or not as she clearly has good intentions but due to the Rot running through her family it is hard to tell if Holland should really trust her. It was also nice to see similarities between Abby and Holland and that even though they are connected to two different forces they are are both good at heart. The emotional chemistry between the two also built up very nicely through this book turning it into a love story which was nice, and gave more hope and purpose to their goals.

William Arcane was a brilliant villain in this book and I loved how he was just a child. I liked how he looked so innocent to start off, being bullied by the other children for being in a bubble and I thought it was brilliant the way he suddenly he turned into this evil boy filled with tones of rage. He had a brilliant evil felling throughout the book and he produced the kind of atmosphere I expected from the child version of the Hellfire Club in Wolverine and the X-Men and Schism. I also like how William doesn't care what happens and only cares about himself and the rising of the Rot.

I also enjoyed the involvement of the former Swamp Things, and residents of the Parliament of Trees and how they interact with Holland realising that he is their best hope of stopping the Rot. I also like how this book since the start has been setting up the current Rotworld story between the three forces and how the events in this book appear are just a prelude to something much bigger. The only thing that slightly upset me about this book was how it ended with a cliffhanger. Don't get me wrong this is a brilliant thing for the story and end the book with tones of suspense, it does however leave me wanting to read more of this brilliant series and the fact that I don't know when I'll be able to read the continuation of this series.

Final Verdict

A great book and I really wish I had gotten the series since the start. It is full with tones of action, suspense, emotion along with some of the best story telling I've ever read. I would defiantly recommend getting this book as it's one of the best out of the New 52 and I for one will be getting the series from now on, whilst trying to get back issue, and am looking forward to reading the Rotworld story.

Rating: 5/5