‘Detective Comics #998’ (review)

Written by Peter J. Tomasi
Illustrated by Doug Mahnke
Published by DC Comics

This has been a special treat indeed. Peter J. Tomasi and Doug Mahnke have been doing an absolutely phenomenal job with the lead up to Detective Comics #1000.

The story has to do with somebody dismantling Batman. The mystery has been just who is doing it to him and why? It’s been awesome.

Batman’s investigation leads him to the doorstep of Dr. Hugo Strange.

Apparently, Strange has been the one sending these crazy creatures after Batman over the last few issues. Who has hired Strange to do so and what purpose does it serve?

These are all questions that Batman asks Strange. It’s a pretty harrowing scene.

The interrogation is interrupted by a call from Alfred. Apparently, Jason Blood wants to speak to Bruce.

Blood is the human who hosts the Demon. What does Jason Blood want?

Batman gets ready to take his leave. But not before the coolest part of the issue where Hugo Strange says, “we’re going to find out what makes you tick, Batman.”

Batman just decks him and says, “found out a long time ago what makes me tick, Strange.” It’s a cool and awesome moment that is applause worthy.

There’s another cool moment too when the Demon and Batman meet. Batman suits up into his armor and sees the Demon fighting something from hell. The creature insults Batman and Batman gives him a big wallop and says “what makes you think I’m afraid of hell?” It’s beautiful and almost brought a tear to my eye.

The Demon gives Batman some information. It leads him to Dr. Stone in Metropolis. They talk and there is a weird scene that leads into the cliffhanger. And what a cliffhanger. I did scream out “just the hell is actually going on?” at the end. That last page is something great indeed. But it’s pretty out there.

I’m excited to see what happens. The reveal at the end could be anything. I’m sure the next issue is going to be one of the most interesting Batman stories of all time. And I can’t wait. This team is doing stellar work and this is something special indeed. I can only imagine where it’s going to go from here.

RATING: A