Another solid issue of ALL-STAR WESTERN. This story picks up from the cliffhanger of last month’s issue, as Arkham meets Jonah’s old flame. This story also, as the solicit promises, brings us more of the Court of Owls and their machinations.

I do like the Court, as an idea, and certainly Snyder’s been using them well in BATMAN, but after “Night of the Owls” I’m ready to see someone else for a while. Since Jonah’s not part of the Bat-family I’m hoping this story will develop a bit differently from the Court’s present-day appearances.

I really enjoyed the Bat Lash backup, beginning to end; unlike the past few backups this one doesn’t intersect in any way with the main story, as Lash isn’t involved in the goings-on in Gotham. Indeed, it’s a light-hearted adventure, and better for it. I like the occasional backup that builds upon the main story, but in general I think I like them best like this.