The titles of this issue is “Two Letters,” referring to adopted sisters Barbara and Kara Gordon who are writing letters to one another. Barbara is telling Kara about life in New Gotham since the murder of their father, while Kara is sharing details of life at Gotham Garage, outside the city.

I initially expected a story-told-through-letters, pioneered by Bram Stoker, but somewhat clichéd these days. Thankfully, the letters closed and the real action began, resulting in unexpected developments. Kudos to the creative team for wandering off the beaten path into fresh territory.

What follows genuinely moves the story forward, rather than rehash previous chapters or share character insight. It’s an effective blend of drama and action, which I find rather seldom in comics these days. It’s usually one of the other, rarely both.

The artwork by Carmen Carnero is first-rate. I’ve not seen her name before, so I am uncertain how new she is to comics. Regardless, her work stand head and shoulders above the newer talent I’ve seen lately.