The Shadow is back with a strong script and solid art, but is that enough to make this series a must buy?  Read on to find out.

The official description from Dynamite:

The Shadow sets a trap for his foes, but neither Taro Kondo nor the fearsome Buffalo Wong are inclined to step into it without taking certain precautions. A night of slaughter in the Shanghai underworld sees Margo Lane learning just how high the stakes are, and how far her master will go to win his deadly game.

The Fire of Creation story arc continues, as the Shadow pursues his query to Shanghai in an attempt to out smart them and finish this game.  Our main character is perfectly suited for this story, as his violent tendencies, meticulous nature and cold calculations reveal a man that is a crossover of both the best and worst attributes of the Punisher and Batman.  This is a violent and engaging read that is sure to appeal to a decent amount of comic readers out there.

A very solid script delivers dialogue that shows series writer, Garth Ennis, at his best.  The words flow quickly as they succeed in informing readers of the ever expanding plot.  The story itself yields some character development that shows our hero as a man who is willing to kill and do whatever it takes to keep the world spinning.  But not only is the Shadow developed this issue, but the villains get some much needed attention as well.

Aaron Campbell and his take on the main character and the underworld he fights is perfectly suited for this narrative.  His ability to draw and exentuate violence is almost an art form, and when he’s given the chance to shine and show his abilities he thoroughly delivers.  The only gripe I have is that there are moments where his thick-ink style doesn’t always seem to suit a given situation in the book, but thankfully those are few and far between.

The Shadow is a brutal but brilliant comic book that won’t be for everyone.  It has solid art, a great script and a strong narrative that easily make this issue worthy of a recommendation.

4/5