It’s not often one reads a comic book that fails to feature the main character. Well, technically, the main character is there, albeit in her civilian alter ego. Kinda like a Superman comic starring Clark Kent, or Spider-Man starring Peter Parker.

But Mother Panic has issues. Her cybernetics are on the fritz, so prowling the crime-ridden streets of Gotham City – to rid the city of crime – is not advisable. Nevertheless, she has set herself up as bait for the Body Bag Killer, who is targeting victim of horrible crimes.

However, Violet Paige has someone on her side, and he comes to the rescue when she needs it most. It’s surprising, his reaction to her extra-curricular lifestyle. One might expect him to react with strong disapproval, out of concern for her safety. But surprisingly, he acknowledges the work Vi has been doing. No small endorsement.

And Vi’s origin story seems to come to a close, as her flashbacks to her childhood at Gather House culminates in her final confrontation with Mother Patrick.

Meanwhile, the back-up feature, “Gotham Radio,” continues. It features an innovative layout that I genuinely appreciate. However, it’s the sort of method that must be used judiciously in order to be effective. On a three-age feature, it works very well. In a longer format, perhaps not so much.

Rating: 7/10