Publisher: Image Comics
Writers: Kieron Gillen
Artists: Jamie McKelvie, Matthew Wilson
Released: 17th December, 2014

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After that rather startling but brilliant end to their first arc, it was always going to be interesting to see just where Gillen was going to be taking The Wicked + The Divine in its second one. At the end of this issue, the story still remains as enigmatic as Gods at its core, but by them, this remains an absolutely cracking read.

It is, however, uncommonly difficult to precisely put ones finger on just what makes this book quite so enticing.

Perhaps it’s the glorious line-work from McKelvie, particularly his absolute mastery of facial expressions – boiling it down, it’s the fact that you can act ually tell the difference in his artwork between a sneer of derision, and one of anger. That’s how much detail we’re talking – it’s genuinely incredible, and gives the dialogue motion and weight as your brain processes each panel.

Perhaps it’s the terrifically witty dialogue from Gillen – incredibly pop-conscious, whilst at the same time forging forward with a distinctive, quick-fire style that never slumps under its own weighty ambitions, even in the more dialogue heavy sections.

Then there’s the story itself, which is a gloriously fascinating loo0k at a world where Gods are worshipped as if they were pop-stars – it’s one of those ideas that you can only wish you could’ve come up with as you read it being told so succesfully.

Assuming that you’ve bought, devoured and enjoyed Vol 1, then this is absolutely essential, continuing the story in a satisfying and entertaining manner. If you’re not aboard this trippy-as-balls ride yet… seriously, what’s up with that? You don’t want your friends calling you square do you?! Well chop-chop – off you go and buy all six.

Rating: 5/5.

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The Writer of this piece was: Ross Sweeney
Ross tweets from @Rostopher24

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