Apocalypse: Year Two starts off with multiple bangs!
THE GOOD
What is there not to like about East of West. This book has been entertaining right form the beginning. Jonathan Hickman and Nick Dragotta fashion a world that is unique and intriguing. I will admit the politics of the whole thing took me a while to figure out and once they are understood the ride is a lot more enjoyable. This issue opens on the horsemen after the short story in the one-shot. More carnage and chaos is beginning to arise during this year. We get some amazing shots from Dragotta whose are style makes this book even more special. He draws cartoony and interesting characters and when there is carnage is there carnage!
A solid portion of exposition helps the reader understand the state of the world now that shots have been fired and things are heating up. Bel Solomon is up to his neck in trouble and the Ranger comes to the rescue in a great Good, Bad, and the Ugly scene. We get a taste of what Madame President is experiencing and a small sip from the PRA.
Hickman keeps building and building and the pace of this book is fantastic. There is so sense that Hickman is cramming in his story. He takes his time and there is lots to read and amazing scenes to look at. Dragotta's design of the technology is so entertaining and such a treat!
THE BAD
The only real upset I have with East of West is that I forgot ALL that has gone on in the past. It's almost like you need to reread everything before picking up the newest issue. The way Hickman juggles back and forth between characters and their situations may also be confusing or troublesome for readers, I am a personal fan of that style so it doesn't really bug me.
THE VERDICT
East of West is a great way to end the year. I am so excited for what this title will bring during 2015. Hickman's tale is enjoyable and runs deep with intrigue. Politics have never been more interesting to me. Hickman and Dragotta craft amazing issues month after month. East of West is worth the read and best begun right from #1.
