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Greg Rucka likes (and is good at) writing strong female characters. Starting with Whiteout, with Queen and Country: The Definitive Edition, Vol. 1, and more recently with Stumptown, Vol. 1 (and subsequent volumes for each series), he gave us complex, layered characters that never felt *clichéd* or stereotypical, with emotional, action-packed storylines. He continues this in "Batwoman: Elegy".

In this book, he establishes the modern Batwoman as a compelling character by giving her a dark, heart-breaking origin story and by giving her her own nemesis: Alice. It is hard to elaborate without spoiling the book. Suffice it to say that there are a number of reveals in this book that will make you want to re-read it and even go back and re-read Batwoman's stories in "52" (though they are not required reading).

On the art side, prepare to be blown away by the always incredible JH Williams III. From his truly ingenious page layouts to his varied art styles, this book was a visual treat from cover to cover. The art varies in style but never in quality. Check out some of his other work in Batman: The Black Glove and the book-end issues of Grant Morrison's "Seven Soldiers of Victory" Seven Soldiers of Victory Book One & Seven Soldiers of Victory Book Two.

I got much more than I expected from this book, and it still left me wanting more. What else can I tell you? This book is worth it. 4 stars.