It’s the end of the road for the “Burning Down the House” story arc and Rob Williams gives this intrigue-filled arc one hell of a send-off. Suicide Squad #15 has it all. An old frenemy returns, the Squad comes together to avenge one of its own, Waller’s plan is partially revealed, a family is reunited and the opening of the door for an even bigger arc with an old face and some crossover options.

Williams is nothing if not consistent, his ability to tell a gripping story or kick off a saga makes the direction he’s taking the Suicide Squad in nothing short of legend making. There is no fat in his words, set up or ultimate conclusion as he is a master at playing chess with words and always being just far enough ahead of the reader to tell a compelling story and leave you wanting more. Issue #15 is nothing short of a testament to and reminder of his talent.

John Romita, Jr., Richard Friend, Eddy Barrows and, Eber Ferreira bring their A-game when it comes to the stylized look of this issue. There’s not a line out of place and the artwork adds another layer to the story making reading this comic a popcorn worthy endeavor. Much like the writing the artwork is tight and there isn’t a line out of place or a blood splatter that is unnecessary, everything you see in the panels is crucial to not only telling the story but, moving the action along.

Williams is one of those male writers that write female characters exceptionally well, there are no cliches or pandering in his writing, just strong, in control women with agency and goals. He doesn’t use females as side notes or damsels in distress, he allows them to step out into the light and actually be an integral part of the story. He gives them a sense of autonomy from the top of the food chain Waller to the chipped prisoners Harley Quinn and Enchantress, no woman is left behind or lacking in agency. He is a master at creating characters that you have strong feelings for whether you love them or you hate them, he makes sure that the readers get attached.

This issue highlights the best of his work and the best of his art teams works, their talents combined, create a wonderful world for the Squad to exist in and do their best and their worst. Williams has the story follow a realistic tone where things aren’t black and white but, he makes sure that those shades of gray are unique and pop, bringing an added layer to the story. Suicide Squad #15 is a solid read from cover to cover and the only fault that I find in it is that it was too short but, then again Williams is a master at leaving the readers wanting more.

Story: Rob Williams Art: John Romita Jr., Richard Friend, Eddy Barrows, Eber Ferreira
Story: 9.7 Art: 9.7 Overall: 9.7 Recommendation: Buy

DC Comics provided Graphic Policy with a FREE copy for review