Wonder Woman #34 Review

Written by: Brian Azzarello
Art by: Cliff Chiang
Cover Price: $2.99
Release Date: October 1, 2014

F-- Yeah!

I really can't say anything about this book that hasn't been said by everyone else.  It's such a well written, awesomely illustrated epic of a book.  Brian Azzarello has laughed in the face of story arcs and crossovers and instead has weaved a slow burning tale that started with the first issue and is still going on this month.  By it's nature, it's not new reader friendly, but the effort to get up to speed is so worth it.  This run will certainly go down as one of the best in Wonder Woman history, but all good things must come to an end.  Yep, Azzarello and Chiang are wrapping there run up and they are doing it in style. After reading this issue, you can see the light at the end of the tunnel, but it's still up in the air if and how we will get there.  I can't wait for that bittersweet moment.




The First Born is one bad mother f--.  He may be pure evil, but I love him anyway.  Wait, maybe that's why I love him.  He's brought the war to Paradise Island and makes some major threats that can't be considered hollow by any stretch.  The Amazons are gathered, but without Wonder Woman, do they stand a chance?

I know what you're thinking, "Where's Wonder Woman?"  Well, she's off "visiting" with an old friend and teacher.  This is where Azzarello shows his greatness.  Most mask and cape books would give you a pep talk that sends our hero off to kick ass and save the day.  Not here.  In fact, at one point Wonder Woman pretty much gives up and accepts death.  What what?  Of course, it's hard to have a Wonder Woman book without...Wonder Woman, but how she survives and reenters the fight is pure genius.

There is so much going on in this Battle, but the highlight for me was Orion.  Every time he pops up in this book, he steals the show. This issue is no exception.  However, Hera is a close second.  Since regaining her immortality, I've been waiting for her to fully get back to being a jerk and it happens here...then she surprises everyone.

The issue ends with the continuation of the mystery that is baby Zeke.  With the First Born wreaking havoc, Wonder Woman and company take the little guy to Olympus to fulfill his prophecy.  It may be a long shot (really, it isn't), but they really have nothing left to lose.  I cannot wait until the next issue.

Cliff Chiang's art is great as usual.  It's classically beautiful, but also gruesomely awesome.  It's such a great mix an just fits this book like a glove.

Bits and Pieces:

Great Wonder Woman issues are becoming old hat, but don't let it lull you into thinking this is anything but awesome.  The Battle for Olympus is nearing the end and it looks like Wonder woman and friends need a miracle to come out on top.  While it's so sad that Azzarello and Chiang are leaving the book soon, they are going out on top.

9.3/10