Batman: Absolution

A stylish Batman graphic novel that ought to have been considerably better. Early in Batman's career, a terrorist bomb strikes at Wayne Enterprises, leaving countless deaths and a furious Batman. A decade of searching leads him to the architect of the bombing, Jennifer Blake. He pursues her to India where she has been living a life of selflessness and holiness, revered by the villagers she labors for. Batman must decide whether this is a pose designed to muddy the chase, as she has done often before, or a true redemption, entitling her to absolution for her crimes of the past. The artwork and writing are fine, but the plot is confused with a number of red herrings that remain a source of confusion at the end. Additionally, Batman's own character remains harsh and merciless, where a different ending might have reflected a willingness to change and grow when it is called for. Finally, the type and lettering are way too small for old eyes, and the book was a labor to read through. I like the artist and the writer, and hope to see better from them some day. ( )

Not bad, not great. Good art. ( )