This issue features the culmination of the Mars drama, as Manhunter J’onn J’onzz and his family fall victim to the psychological virus known as H’ronmeer’s Curse. It’s a tale of tragedy and deception, while offering added layers to the Martian Manhunter’s extraterrestrial origins.

While I’ve enjoyed Orlando’s story so far, I am relieved that we may see an end to the Martian portion of the story. I prefer a more linear narrative, so jumping back and forth from NOW and THEN is a little disconcerting for me. I sometimes feel that when an author does that, it’s almost because they’re unable to maintain reader interest in the NOW part.

Of course the artwork is phenomenal, and Rossmo has created a genuinely otherworldly environment for the aliens. Orlando’s writing has informed that creation, but I believe it takes an exceptional artist to turn words into believable imagery. In Rossmo’s case, it’s far more original than anything we’ve seen on film in recent memory.

If memory serves, this is a 12-issue series. Now that much of the origin is over, I look forward to the next six issues. As a manhunter, I appreciate seeing J’onn in super-hero mode, and seeing the added layers of his budding crime fighter career and eventual JLA membership. If the rest of the series is as good, I see no reason it can't be ongoing.