Tony Daniel’s “Detective Comics” is certainly different than the recent Scott Snyder run. But just because it’s different doesn’t mean it isn’t fun and entertaining. Issue #1 ended on a pretty macabre note. In issue #2, Daniel builds upon that moment a little as we get to see The Dollmaker and get a better idea of how this twisted new villain operates. Much like Snyder, Daniel incorporates a lot of detective-styled storytelling. But this Detective Comics has a much different tone that works in most areas but not as much in others.

We’re also introduced to a few new characters, Hugh Marder, a rep from a corporation that Bruce is trying to aquire, and Charlotte Rivers, a reporter who turns out to be another new flame for Bruce. Bruce and Charlotte immediately hook up which begs the question, how many new girlfriends does Bruce Wayne have? I know he’s a playboy but in four different Bat books we have relationships with four different women. Overkill? That aside, this is a pretty fun issue with an ending that really left me anxious for the next book.

Many people have problems with Tony Daniel’s art style. I’m not one of them. I love his work and really enjoyed the look of this issue. He draws realistic and grounded characters and his action sequences and energetic and well paced. I did feel the art had a different look on a few pages, almost as if another artist was involved. But that was nothing that took away from the experience and overall this was a visually strong issue.

I like the direction of this “Detective Comics” run. It’s certainly different than the Snyder run but as I said, that’s not automatically a bad thing. Daniel’s take on the book doesn’t feel as focused as Snyder’s and the story does need to be tightened up a little. But I’m having fun with it and in the end that’s all that counts for me.