Batman: Night of the Owls (The New 52)
Batman’s newest and spookiest villain, the Court of Owls, is back and on the hunt in this collection from various Batman titles. The Talons, assassins from the Court of Owls, have emerged from their cold, death-like slumber and are simultaneously targeting Gotham’s elite citizens and leaders all over the city, and it’s going to take the whole Batfamily to defeat them. On a single night, Batman, Robin, Batgirl, Nightwing, and others answer the call to protect Gotham and battle Talons citywide. By design, the multiple story lines jostle for attention and the introduction of new characters can be disorienting, but each entry adds some much-needed backstory to the enigmatic and powerful Court of Owls. A wide range of artists have a hand in this collection, but the standout is Capullo’s gritty and cinematic depiction of fight scenes and set pieces alike. Readers loyal to a particular Batman brand might prefer a single-series collection, but those seeking out anything Gotham-related will devour the rich history of the city and its hidden, lurking menace. --Sarah Hunter