The Lone Ranger is back with a standalone issue. Is it any good? Tonto fans will want to pick it up for sure.

Here’s the official description from Dynamite:

Beginning a series of stand-alone tales from the Old West, this issue revisits an unknown part of Tonto’s past. Tonto will finally come face to face with the rogue Indian braves who indirectly caused the deaths of his wife and son. The outcome of their meeting alters Tonto’s life forever. This issue also reveals how Tonto acquired his horse, Scout. Vengeance, blood and horses as a secret chapter of Tonto’s past unfolds.

Not too long ago we had the Native Ground arc, which was Tonto-centric. This issue is a kind of sequel to that, so obviously it’s a must read for people that had read it. Tonto is a pretty intriguing character thanks to all the backstory the comics have given him. He has proven to be able to carry a story on his own without the title character. He proves it again here in what is a nice standalone tale. While it may not be too exciting, it’s a must read for fans of the character.

Ande Parks as usual writes a compelling Tonto. We see a man that is deeply angry thanks to the fantastic narration boxes. You don’t find writing like this in many places. This issue does two things: one, it shows us what Tonto was up to after Native Ground, and two, it shows us how he became acquainted with his horse Scout. The latter part is especially interesting given the circumstances with who he belonged to. The final part of the issue with Tonto and the rouge Brave was a pretty tension-filled scene.

Esteve Polls’ art like always is solid. What I personally like is that it doesn’t try to grab attention for itself, it merely illustrates the 1800 setting with greatly drawn backgrounds of trees and canyons. The shots with Tonto and Scout are beautiful, Polls knows how to draw some lovely horses. The cover is okay, both characters look kinda off. Also the Ranger doesn’t appear at all within, so I’m not sure having him on the cover was a good idea.

Overall, a solid standalone tale starring everyone’s favorite Native American. Like always it’s filled with heart and good drama, not to mention all the nice shots of Tonto riding his horse. It’s definitely another good issue of The Lone Ranger.

4/5

Daniel is a big fan of the Lone Ranger, he even likes him more than Green Hornet. You can follow him on Twitter: @Destroyer_199