Harley Quinn #18
DC Comics
Written by Stephanie Phillips
Art by Riley Rossmo
Colors by Ivan Plascencia
Letters by AndWorld Design
The Rundown: Harley Quinn receives a stunning offer to join a disparate team of former villains.
The story opens with Harley being chased through Gotham by Killer Frost and Bronze Tiger. Soon Dreadbolt shows up and challenges the clown. After an altercation, Harley finds herself in a compromising situation and quickly finds out the reason for her attack. She is then offered a surprising opportunity. Harley then embarks on a challenging mission after reconnecting with an old friend.
The Story: In this chapter, Phillips creates a new entry point into this ongoing series. I love the fact that Harley’s story continues to evolve with each new plotline and it is heartening to see the agency she is able to take in the decisions of her life. While I find this new team up promising, I can’t help but compare it with the Suicide Squad and I believe that may be the point. It will be interesting to see how a self-assured and purpose filled Harley Quinn reacts in such a new, yet familiar, environment.
The Art: As always, the illustration is in a dizzying modern styling perfectly matching the vibrant temperament of Harley. The action scenes are fun and engaging with an endearing quality that is also emotionally connective. I felt transported with the turn of every page.