So, the first thing you’ll notice about this issue is that there isn’t actually any solicit for this one, or at least – not one that I could find, anyway. The only thing that I thus knew about it going into Aquaman #22 is then that it’s the fourth part in the Death of a King series, and features Aquaman on the front cover in peril. And yes, the King of Atlantis goes through some pretty rough times in this issue, with the cliffhanger being superb – Death of a King really is shaping up to be one of the best arcs of the series so far, and that’s including the epic Aquaman/Justice League crossover Throne of Atlantis.

If you were to sum up the issue, or indeed this arc – it would be Game of Thrones meets Aquaman. Seriously. It’s unpredictable, fun – and if you didn’t think the ongoing war for Atlantis, with Aquaman as a character would be interesting, then think again – Johns has proven time and time again just how badass Aquaman is and #22 is no different. This really is an incredible issue. Sure, whilst Ivan Reis’ artwork may still be missed by some, Paul Pelletier and Sean Parsons are doing a pretty fine job by themselves – in fact, they’re getting better with each issue. and it’s far from the worst art that I’ve seen this week comics-wise. It’s strong, entertaining – and awesome, with Johns proving why he is one of DC Comics’ strongest writers at the moment – sure, he may not always turn everything he touches into gold, but several series that he’s worked on in the New 52 have become really awesome under his lead to the point where you cannot imagine anyone else working under them as well as he has done.

The first page of this issue is pretty entertaining, and earned a chuckle from me. Tula and a group of Atlantians, including Murk are going to rescue Orm from the prison that he’s kept in, and they stumble across a truck. It’s amusing watching them bicker about the vehicle – and more so when one of them rips off the door, almost breaking it off completely. However, that doesn’t mean that this issue is all fun and games – it’s dark, and moves along, taking no prisoners. The cliffhanger on the last few pages is awesome, and I really can’t wait to see where Johns takes Aquaman from here.

Johns is continuing to explore the character in awesome ways, each issue more engaging than the last. Its pace is non-stop and the action is very awesome. This was my most anticipated comic for this week, and it certainly delivers, and in pretty much every way – the only real downside is that I have to wait a month to find out what happens.

VERDICT: 5/5