Spider-Man: Family Business
*Starred Review* Peter Parker is thrown back into another epic battle, although probably not one that his typical audience is used to. After several goons kidnap Peter in the middle of the night, he is rescued by a mysterious secret agent who claims to be his long-lost sister. Now Spider-Man and agent Theresa must dig into their parents’ own CIA past to discover the explanation for Peter’s mysterious abduction and the reasons for his sister’s sudden appearance. Waid’s story is perfectly blended, with all the one-liners and gags that fans have come to expect as well as a level of mystery and intrigue that’s a welcome addition. And with four villains vying for the death of Spider-Man (one literally dug up from the past), this original graphic novel is certainly not short on action. Though the final reveal is slightly predictable, overall, this breaks new ground for the series. Dell’Otto’s painted panels are simultaneously realistic and dreamlike, creating beauty rarely seen in this medium outside of Alex Ross and imparting a more serious tone to the usually punchy character. Truly, Spider-Man has never looked so good. Easily the best Spider-Man novel in recent memory. --Peter Blenski