Is this absolutely engaging series still firing on all of its cylinders?  Read on to find out.

The official description from Image:

The curse of the Femme Fatale has been around long before Josephine. Now we go back to the dark ages, to Medieval times, and the story of a young woman warrior facing unknowable horror that echoes down through time! Another standalone FATALE FLASHBACK issue, and a perfect place for new readers to jump on board!

And remember each issue of FATALE contains extra content, articles and artwork that are not available anywhere but the printed single issues.

When it comes to reviewing this monthly comic book, it never ceases to amaze me at how easily this team emulates the noir genre while offering their own unique spin.  This latest release is much of the same and even though it’s not as good as it can be it was still an exceptionally enjoyable ride.

Ed Brubaker pens a script that simple ebbs and flows with the fake history of the Femme Fatale while simultaneously creating a compelling protagonist in her own right.  The dialogue is vivid and captivating even during some of the more uncomfortable moments featured in this dark and dreary narrative. The only exception to that compliment would be a few select scenes that were unnecessarily slow.  It’s true that there were times where the pace felt somewhat bogged down but these panels were few and far between.

The art by Sean Phillips continues to be something marvelous as he demonstrates the whole wealth of his abilities with this outing.  Beyond bringing a whole new to life in a way that fits the context of the greater saga he simply displays his uncanny professionalism.  While exploring some new territory, he earnestly jumps through time using his pencil strokes to embrace and bring to life this captivating medieval jaunt.  Save for a few sequences the work on display is exceptional.

Fatale #12 may be a one-and-done story but it’s just as compelling as any other issue in this series, as it spins a yarn wholly unique unto itself.  Recommended.

4/5