Harbinger #17

By Joshua Dysart, Clayton Henry, & Moose Baumann

The Valiant Universe has found its cornerstone book. While X-O Manowar came first, Harbinger is the must read series of the new Valiant Universe. Architect Joshua Dysart should get much of the praise as he has crafted an excellent story and updated the characters for modern times perfectly.

This issue starts with several flashbacks. One introduces a new character, while another takes us back to Las Vegas at the end of Harbinger Wars. These are both important to the story, because we find out that what we saw last issue was not how things really turned out, and Harada is the most powerful man in the universe and when he wants something, he gets it.

Joshua Dysart will likely have readers scratching their heads. This is an excellent issue that really makes you think. The introduction of Monica Jim is a welcome addition; her powers seem pretty cool and make for several funny scenes that parallel Wylie Coyote and the Roadrunner. Dysart also shows us a little bit of a softer side to Harada, which was needed, because the character was becoming very unlikable throughout the series, which is probably the point because he’s the villain. Dysart does a great job of telling a story about the renegades, but essentially without them in it. That is a talent.

There really isn’t too much to complain about when Clayton Henry is on art duties. His panels with Monica’s cartoony constructs and real animals or people are just wonderful. Henry really excels on his facial expressions too. Seeing a sleep weary Harada drowsy and irritated seems much more realistic and believable when drawn by Henry. He has a knack for just showing the reader the best panel possible. Hands down one of the better artists in the business today.

If you thought last issue was crazy, wait until you read this one. Dysart continues to put the work and effort into this book, and it shows. Teamed up with Clayton Henry, this can only be a comic book fans dream of. This series just hit must read status.