It didn’t really sink in how much the Black Bolt story dragged down the pace of this story until I read this issue. It took me a while to get back into the swing of things because it’s been over two months since I last read of the adventures of the FF as they tackled the evil Reeds. Once I got started, I couldn’t stop grinning because this issue was awesome!

The only word that really describes this story is epic. Hickman has been laying the ground work for this story since the beginning and with this issue, you begin to see the pay off that’s going to taking place during this “arc.” Some powerful forces are gathering and taking place, and this issue begins to bring them together. Not only does Hickman manage to provide some nice character development, but he is able to do so amid action and intrigue. There are two very stellar moments in this issue. One involves the villains and the other involves Reed seemingly figuring everything out before he’s whisked away. I put down this issue desperately wanting more, and I couldn’t be happier with how things are playing out. I would be remiss if I didn’t mention Epting’s amazing art. He continues to prove just how great of an artist he is, and I can’t wait to see what epic things are next in the story.