This issue starts out with Brunhilde the Valkyrie, failing to assemble a new team of Valkior which then creating a void which resulted in the return of the Death Maidens, the terrifying precursors to the Valkior. Present to call her out on her failure is Hela, goddess of the underworld, who arrives with an addition to Valkyrie’s fledgling gathering, Hippolyta of Themyscira, Queen of the Amazons. (*Cough* Marvel Wonder Woman *Cough*) Hippolyta brings a snarky attitude and an innate rivalry with Brunhilda.
Hela reveals that Dani Moonstar has been taken by the sinister Caroline LeFay and Valkyrie, Misty Knight, Annabelle Riggs (ridiculously decked out in a viking helmet and slinging an ax) and Hippolyta (don’t call her Warrior Woman) go to confront the Death Maidens. But after fisticuffs, there is a surprising twist.
The best part of this book is the dialogue and the characters’ interactions. There was already a weird disparity between the urban, street smart Misty and the heavenly demigoddess Valkyrie. Then there was the slight sexual tension between Brunhilde and Annabelle. NOW we add in a rivalry between Brunhilde and Hippolyta. Not to mention, Hela’s menacing presence. That’s all quite entertaining.
In terms of the overall story, the idea of the Death Maidens returning is intriguing enough. The biggest weakness, so far, is Caroline LeFay. Granted, she hasn’t appeared much, but she seems really one-note and cliche. In general, I’m not a fan of “civilian” villains, Lex Luthor aside. The Death Maidens appeal to me. Caroline does not.
The art is not bad at all, but is a tad… goofy. Sorry. It’s not awful by any means, it just misses the mark by the tiniest of margins.
This series is fun! It’s not groundbreaking. It’s not what I would consider the most attractive book. But it’s not a waste of money.
THE FEARLESS DEFENDERS #3
Written by Cullen Bunn
Art by Will Sliney
Cover by Mark Brooks
