The idea of two superheroes coming together where the idea of what is acceptable and undue in the course of gods makes for an interesting dichotomy. Of course, this loss of structure usually turns into a litany of lost grudges. Like some of the rumors permeating “Batman Vs Superman: Dawn Of Justice”, collateral damage creates a notion of what is lost through maybe a lack of perspective. In this progression: “Superman & Wonder Woman Vol. 3: Casualties Of War” [Peter Tomasi/DC Comics/144pgs], the two heroes are an item. As a goddess of war, Diana (aka WW) can put Superman in his place with distinctive fervor, simply because she is older and supposedly knows better. Problem is that in this iteration specifically she is ruled by ego which comes out as her latest impediment by the villain Margos. The reality is that Margos is simply a metaphor for those people who have been inadvertently killed by our heroes. Through Margos’ eyes comes demons from Wonder Woman’s past, specifically Circe. The story seems to take on a stream of consciousness bent as if our superheroes are having their intentions moved against them superfluously. Ultimately Circe takes Superman’s unchecked rage which he bottles up and unleashes it against Wonder Woman. It is simply the fact that her lasso of truth keeps him from completely losing himself that saves them from being defeated. Margos retreats to being the man child he used to be. This story arc is a cautionary tale for sure but it is actually two intimate moments with Diana and Clark Kent (aka Superman), half in and out of their costumes that makes the most sense and grounds the narrative. At the beginning Clark is trying to put the lives that he has inadvertently affected into words on a type writer. He reaffirms to Diana that he can type fast but writing takes time. By the end of the story, the structure is full circle as Diana puts words to paper to ensure that certain stories are not forgotten. The art in this volume is amazing and mythic seemingly vaulting out of the tablet reminiscent of Alex Ross’ grandeur. While some of the story points are overwrought as is understandable in this structure, this pairing and volume still pack quite a punch.

B+

By Tim Wassberg

A good book, of course. Very good and impressive illustrations, though I would have preferred if the story had more to offer.