Review by Frank Plowright

Jane Foster began life in comics as the simpering nurse assisting Thor’s human alter ego Dr. Donald Blake. Involved with Thor’s life throughout the 1960s, she was long forgotten when revived by Jason Aaron for his Thor run, actually becoming Thor for a while when the original article was considered no longer worthy. That was a passing phase, and she was eventually settled into the role of an Asgardian Valkyrie.

It’s with the tasks associated with the role that Torunn Grønbekk first shows Jane assisting the Avengers and shepherding a soul to the afterlife. It’s a poignant sequence boding well for the remainder, which is Jane becoming Thor once again as the primary article is missing and has sent his hammer to her.

We’ve seen the threat of Asgard’s primary enemies uniting to attack before, but Grønbekk improves on earlier stories via a massive injection of humanity. This isn’t just gods battling for glory, for honour and for Asgard, but a conflict where consideration and motivation are explored alongside the conflict. Jane is hesitant to become Thor again, knowing how addictive the power can be, and at part of the plot to invade Asgard is love. It’s a twisted, manipulative love, but love nonetheless.

Conveying that requires considerable dexterity on the part of artist Michael Dowling. The sample page shows a thoughtful Jane while also showcasing a facility for well designed page layouts. Equally thoughtful colouring from Jesus Aburtov seals an attractive page. That the top panel has been repurposed from a scene a few pages earlier doesn’t diminish this.

This isn’t a solo story. Grønbekk populates it with assorted supporting characters, but beyond the opening Avengers cameos, none are big hitters, yet all have a moment to express themselves. This doesn’t just apply to the heroes in what’s an extremely tightly plotted and exceptionally well drawn merger of myth and magic. It’s a gem. Don’t miss out.