Justice Society of America #32 - DC

I have to be honest with you . . I was worried about this book when Geoff Johns left. But Bill Willingham and Matthew Sturges are doing a fantastic job here. I absolutely love what they've done with this first story-arc. I'm equally impressed with Jesus Merino's art, and his take on these characters. Is Mr Terrific dead? Well . . we just don't know for sure, yet. Alan has been keeping him is stasis ever since he was pronounced dead. So even though it's been hours, as far as Michael's body is concerned no time has passed. During this time our new Dr Fate has been working on a spell. We don't know exactly what it is, but when he finally releases it on him . . forcing Alan to lower his stasis field, the spell seems to be taking an unexpected course. As soon as he hits Michael with it, Dr Fate loses control. Something is happening, but we don't know what. And Dr Fate, while controlling the spell, no long seems to be in control of its' actions or effects. But we'll have to wait until next issue to find out more about that. Most of the rest of the issue is spent with Karen, Jay and Mr America sorting out what exactly happened to Billy, the All-American Kid. They've got video footage of him actually stabbing Michael, but . . it appears that he was not in control of his own body. Somebody was manipulating him. The first person that comes to mind is King Chimera, his roommate at the time. He can control light and illusions, but they're questioning if he has the ability to alter the perceptions of others, 'Are direct mental domination powers such a big stretch after that?' Eventually Power Girl and Liberty Belle have a showdown with the impetuous youth, and while he's upset about their accusations, he doesn't seem the least bit worried about their abilities or power levels. The outcome of their battle is in question because while all of this has been happening, the cadre of super-villains that attacked earlier . . they're back, and looking to collect the bounties on each of the JSA member's heads. But we still don't know who's offering these bounties, who's hired these villains, and who's orchestrated this divergent attack on the JSA. They attack the mansion just as Power Girl gets a hand on Chimera . . which took a lot of effort. There's also still the power struggle between PG and Magog. And someone finally asks the question, 'Why on Earth were so villains taking such pains to avoid hurting Stargirl?' I thought it was a great issue and it really leaves the reader on edge anticipating the next issue . . the conclusion. I have a feeling we're not going to get all the answers though. Like I said, I think Bill, Matt and Jesus are doing a great job here. Thanks!