“Clearly we are not ourselves”

Now we’re talking (or not) after last months grueling chatterfest, this one gets on with the plot development quite quickly. We open the issue on the hill with a surprise mexican standoff between Andrea, Lydia, and Carl. (praying Carl takes the bullet, but he doesn’t. Drat.) Tempers flare and simmer down fast when they explain to Lydia that they are just trying to protect her.

Meanwhile, Lydia’s über evil mom, Alpha is roaming the woods when a member of her pack spots her and tries to sympathize with her. (Bad move, dude) She kindly slits his throat for his troubles while choking back tears she’s lost her daughter. She informs her fellow whisperer that she’s not to be challenged and a plan is to be put in motion.

Back in Alexandria, Rick is trying to calm the mob but it all goes to Hell very fast. Turns out they don’t see sending Lydia off to protect her as an act of kindness but rather weakness. Rick tries desperately to get through to them in a diplomatic fashion but to no avail. A melee ensues and the townspeople are all at each other’s throats. Rick realizes he needs to restore order in his people and drastic times call for drastic measures…

Overall: This was the shot in the arm that was needed after last months filler issue. It moved so fast and was over before I could notice it. It left me wanted more, which is exactly what a comic should do. What else can be said? The art by Charlie Adlard was great as always. I think he’s the most consistent artist this side of Mark Bagley. The pacing was great as well. Finally that cliffhanger at the end left me speechless. I absolutely didn’t see it coming. Bravo Mr. Kirkman, bravo. I might just pay a visit to the survival store before the release of the next issue because a war is coming in these pages and I cannot wait. Till next month deadheads, remember it takes three for a mexican standoff and don’t go wandering into the woods…

Story: Robert Kirkman Art: Charlie Adlard
Story: 8  Art: 8.5 Overall: 8 Recommendation: Buy

Image Comics provided Graphic Policy with a FREE copy for review