Review by Ian Keogh

Transferring the teenage Jon Kent into the role of Superman has enabled Tom Taylor to open a number of doors. The likelihood is that it’ll only be temporary, but while it lasts it’s pleasing to see a Superman willing to involve himself in putting things right without consideration of political sensibilities. With regard to that view he’s on the same page as Jay Nakamura, heavily involved in holding the powerful to account via website The Truth, coincidentally the title of the previous volume. The Truth being staffed, although not exclusively, by beings with super powers is very helpful.

There are plenty of new super powered people in The Rising, as they’re being manufactured by the twisted ruler of Gamorra, Henry Bendix. It’s already been shown he has little concern about deaths of innocents, and his callous attitude continues here as what he sets loose has the potential to turn Metropolis into a disaster area. Jon’s able to call on plenty of allies to help him out, but Taylor’s plot ensures neither he nor they can be everywhere at once, as the pivot becomes the ethical issue about whether threats should be ended humanely or immediately. It’s also about who should be responsible for maintaining order and protection.

Several artists work on this collection, but although it’s all connected, it’s also segmented, so Bruno Redondo drawing Nightwing’s appearance doesn’t clash with Cian Tormey’s work on most of the remainder despite their different styles. Precision typifies Redondo’s approach, while Tormey is more energetic, and shines on big moments. Steve Pugh and Clayton Henry share the pencilling on a sequence spotlighting Lex Luthor, both confident and professional.

Luthor has always been Superman’s scourge, and with the primary elder Superman out of town he anticipates being able to manipulate Jon. How that plays out is interesting, if a little heavy on the explanations. Overall, though, this is another thoroughly entertaining outing leading to a bombshell ending to be picked up in Battle for Gamorra. And as a bonus there’s a great Lois Lane scene.