Wow. War is hell! One of the things that I loved most about this first issue was the way that the mundane was placed alongside the tragic or outright horrific. I’ve never been to war or combat or anything of the like, so far be it from me to try and say what it is “really” like, but I do know that tragedy and horror in life in general can, and often does, happen in this way. Things are going along just fine, and then BAM, something shakes your world up, and then often, as happens in this book, you have to keep a “stiff upper lip” and go on almost like nothing serious happened. Because life doesn’t stop, and nor would war I can safely assume.

I really like that Ennis has given us a nice little mystery to frame this story around. It gives the plot that last little oomph to keep things moving and keep me involved in the story.

Chaykin’s art is spectacular. It’s somehow gritty and clean at the same time. I also like how the characters are somewhat realistic, but then slightly characatured as well. The planes, props and backgrounds all look gorgeous. It’s really a fantastic look for this book.