Harley Quinn #13

But Why Tho?

Harley Quinn #13 is a re-energized delight. The book starts a new arc brilliantly as it flings Harley into an entirely different set of circumstances. And yet Phillips keeps the same themes running throughout the series in a way that revisits yet constantly reimagines.

Dark Knight News

With an onslaught of amazing and stunning covers created by folks like Mico Suayan, Rex Lokus, and of course Derrick Chew and Riley Rossmo, alongside new character development; as Harley fights to keep what ground she has gained, both physically and in her own mind, Harley Quinn #13 gives us a fresh take on just what defines being ahero. This comic displays brilliance in every way.

The Super Powered Fancast

The Story: Episode 13 begins a new story arc in this series. It is the perfect jumping in point for new readers. Personally, I found this to be my favorite issue so far. Phillips creates a dual narrative that is both dark and whimsical. The newest villain in Gotham is gruesome, vengeful, and a distinct threat to Harley. As we are treated to the musings of this masked vigilante, it appears their motive is not so different from Harley’s. Thus, the juxtaposition between crime fighting and community assistance styles are made. The question of the story becomes: “What is the difference between villainy and humanity?” I’m interested to see where this plotline goes and what is the endgame of the newest “mask” in Gotham. The Art: First off, I’d like to acknowledge AndWorld Design for providing clear distinction between the two narrative voices in this issue. Without their well thought out lettering, the story would be very confusing. The illustration here has a modern and whimsical styling that matches the attitude of Harley. Intricate drawings highlighted by a variety of muted colors draw the eye to both foreground and background. I found this technique to be highly engaging and visually stimulating. The images really connected me to this tale.

Geek Dad

Overall, this is a fun issue but until we know more about Verdict it's going to be a little bit of a blank slate. Still, there's something very promising in a story about Harley being targeted by a vigilante gone way too far.

DC Comics News

While I never disliked the character, I never really expected that a Harley Quinn book would be one of my favourite titles. Stephanie Phillips has made me care about the character in a way I never really have before, and has me eager to read the latest chapter every month.

The Batman Universe

I am glad to say goodbye to Keepsake, Dr. Hugo, and the Fear State. Although I liked lots about Fear State, I was never convinced it was the best vehicle for showcasing Harley, and I am interested to see how the framing of Harley for Verdict's crimes interacts with the darkness in Harley's journey.

ComicBook.com

Harley Quinn #13 gets things a bit more on track after the rather unnecessary previous issue, but that doesn't do much to help the overall momentum of things, at least not until the final pages which presents something of a new challenge for Harley. While Phillips has a solid grasp of and approach to Harley as a character, the longer this run goes on the more it becomes clear that it doesn't fully extend to the characters in her orbit. Specifically, this issue just reinforces the idea that everyone around Harley is a little on the incompetent side. That's how forced the turn at the end is. That said, the ending sets up for what could be a really great adventure and the art here is more refined than it's ever been. Somehow, it evens things out.

You Don't Read Comics

Ultimately, Harley Quinn #13 feels middle-of-the-road; its not bad by any means, but it doesnt stand out, primarily because it features very little of the titular character. While its certainly necessary to set up what the arc will be about, this issue had too many pacing problems, with some aspects feeling dragged out and some too rushed. Combined with the often confusing page layouts, Harley Quinn #13 is a bit of a disappointment in an otherwise outstanding run.

Weird Science DC Comics

Harley Quinn #13 slightly improves over the last few issues with improved art and a cliffhanger that could lead to some fun. Unfortunately, the journey from the first page to the cliffhanger requires the reader to believe everyone around Harley is incompetent. But, at least, Phillips is consistent.

Batman-News

There's not a whole lot to say about this issue. It's just a little set up and filler for a new storyline with an already predictable ending. If Stephanie Phillips subverts my expectations and brings this arc to a different conclusion, I'll be happy.