The Black Beetle: No Way Out #2
Story & Art by Francesco Francavilla
Lettering by Nate Piekos of Blambot
Cover by Francesco Francavilla
Editor: Jim Gibbons
Designers: Justine Couch & Francesco Francavilla
Dark Horse Comics
Release Date: February 20, 2013
Cover Price: $3.99

The Black Beetle #2 is pretty much the same as issue #0 and #1 – AWESOME!!! I’m not sure when it became hip to do pulp characters, but I’m very grateful that it did. It is because of this that we’re getting some of the best comics that have been published in years, and this book is no exception to that rule.

First, let’s talk about Francesco Francavilla the writer. First off, you can tell that this is a total labor of love by Francavilla, and it shows in every way possible. The story is well told, and fits right into the world of the pulpy era of days long gone by. I don’t know what it is about that era, but Francavilla writes it like he actually lived through it. This issue is pretty much all action and it’s fast paced, intense, and gives you a real sense of danger for the character. Also, there’s an actual SUPER VILLAIN in this issue. Not just some gangster in a suit and fedora. Another nice touch by Francavilla.

What more do I need to say about Francesco Francavilla the artist? This book is ungodly gorgeous too look it. I read it once, just to read it, then went back again to just look at the art. For someone who’s famous for covers, Francavilla sure knows how to lay out a page. There’s a lot of double-page spreads, which are all fantastic and make sense in the context of the story. They’re not there just to say “hey, look at my awesome art!”, which would be fine if they were. In short, there’s a reason why Francavilla won an Eisner. Here’s the proof.

Another great issue in a great series. I can’t recommend this series highly enough. It’s a rare book that you can enjoy whether you’re a fan of super heroes or not. You’re going to love it.