I have loved the Snyder/Jock run so far, and while this issue was no exception it was a little bit of a gear change as it really felt like two stories that have been grafted together. Both were excellent, but didn’t suit each other.

The Jim Gordon confrontation with his son was my favourite of the two. It was extremely suspenseful. I won’t ruin it for those who haven’t read it yet, but as the puddle of water grows the tension in the conversation becomes overwhelming. I really hope this subplot continues, and as hinted that it will eventually lead to a confrontation between Jr. and Dick.

The second story was a team-up between Batman (Dick) and Red Robin, and had it been the whole issue I’m sure I’d have loved it. Snyder really understands both characters, and though it was only a short scene you can feel the brotherly connection the two characters share. They care for each other and can have a joke together, Tim’s guest appearences in the book have been a lot of fun so far. Mostly I am happy to see that the plot threads from the last arc have continued here and that Dick is still suffering from his last encounter.

The art by Francavilla is amazing, and suits both stories perfectly. Any time Jock needs a breather I am more than happy for Francavilla to step in. The stories were very different in tone and he match them both perfectly.

Sod it, I’m changing my Pick of the Week to this, I’ve convinced myself.