Review by Win Wiacek

Who’d have thought Marvel had created enough British superheroes to form a team? And under Paul Cornell’s stewardship one with enough of a following to sustain a year’s run, reprinted over three graphic novels.

It’s launched via Secret Invasion, during which the insidious shape-changing Skrulls’ long-term plan to infiltrate all strata of Earth society nearly resulted in the total subjugation of mankind. This rousing romp sees mutant super-spy Peter Wisdom helm a new team of British superheroes as part of the company crossover.

With the Skrulls advancing everywhere, the British front needs protection when the aliens attack in an attempt to control all Earth’s inherent magic. They’re held at bay by the Dunkirk spirit of Wisdom, Black Knight, Spitfire, John the renegade Skrull, newcomer (and female Muslim hero) Faiza Hussain and a revamped Captain Britain.

As drawn by Leonard Kirk, an artist with considerable experience guiding super teams such as the JSA and X-Factor through the perils of superhero action, this is a lovely example of beguiling, back-to-the-wall, last stand super-heroics. There’s the further advantage of being easily assimilated by even the most uninformed new reader, with Cornell laying out all necessary background details regarding cast and scenario, so it can be read without reference to the main Secret Invasion story. Let’s simply state that this is a grand adventure of evil aliens, valiant heroes, the Bulldog Breed and spectacular action on a fresh yet ancient magical canvas, which almost any devotee of graphic literature will adore.

The thrills continue with Hell Comes to Birmingham.