Does The Shadow maintain its high quality, or does the series start to slip a bit?  Read on to find out.

The official description from Dynamite:

Exactly who the Shadow might be- or who he once was- is the subject of some grim speculation by Taro Kondo and Buffalo Wong, but the answer may be closer than either suspects. Meanwhile, Cranston and Margo come face to face with the full horror of the Japanese occupation… and on the River Yangtze, a deadly ambush awaits the unwary.

The opening story arc to The Shadow has been full of international intrigue and this latest issue is no different.  From the mature themes, to the fantastical elements this comic succeeds in striking a necessary balance that yields a thoroughly engaging read.  Our hero is one that is smart, full of past regret and an overbearing sense of purpose as he faces an increasingly dangerous world.

Garth Ennis was simply an outstanding choice for writing duties on this title.  His characterization of The Shadow comes off as cold and calculating, but despite that our author still manages to muster up the gumption to give our protagonist moments of grace.  The supporting cast is no slouch either, as our villains step up to the plate and make their presence known by devising a solid strategy that works to their benefit.  It’s a very sound script, that yields just enough information and story progression to warrant a read.

Aaron Campbell handles the art once again, perfecting his unique sensibilities while giving readers a style that compliments the narrative quite well.  From the violent scenes to the more complex emotional ones, his thick lines accentuate a world that is on the brink of a second World War.

The Shadow #4 continues the stellar series in excelent fashion.  From the art to the story, if you’re into this type of violent pulp hero than this monthly comic book is certainly for you.  Recommended.

4/5