I’m beginning to feel somewhat lost in this book, and the thing that puzzles me, is that I’m not sure if that’s intention of the writer or not.

The realisation that Tim is somewhat lost himself; meandering through seemingly random countries, following whimsical leads for a man everybody perceives to be dead is either a fine analogy of the Red Robin’s state of mind manifesting in the mechanics of the story or a weak turn of events designed to separate him from not only Batman but also any perceived notions of his old character.

It is clear this is a very different Tim Drake. Perhaps he has finally succumb to the trauma in his life and optimism drained, has turned to the ‘dark(er) side’. It would seem his ‘uneasy’ alliance with Ra’s Al Ghul indicates a glimmer of his former self deep within his new costume, but is it enough to warrant the sometime stereotypical melodrama inherent in his monologue?

I’m not sure that this book, written clearly to suit the trade paperback format, has enough of a direct rolling narrative, or dynamism in the plot to balance the ever-present turmoil in Drake’s life. Nor can I see any real characterisation in Drake or development other than the dramatic corners he turned in issue#1.

My final point is that, try as I may, I can’t justify the skirmish between Tim and Dick either as having any real cause other than, as stated, to separate Tim as a stand-alone kinda guy.

I think this book has potential and despite a seemingly negative review is not something I’m likely to drop soon. I’m not the biggest fan of the art, however the cover of this particular issue really goes to show the potential of the character design.

Looking forward to some more.

Watch this space.