
With issue #17 of Scarlet Spider, Chris Yost provides new readers with great jump-on point for this series, and new artist Carlo Barberi provides visuals worthy of a book featuring Kaine versus the X-Men.
Since arriving in Houston, Kaine has amassed a group of friends and potential romantic interests that he care quite a bit for, despite his trying to be a lone wolf. His gut instincts about not getting close to people are proving right,a s the League of Assassins has threatened to kill everyone close to him if he doesn’t take on a job for them. Kaine agrees to do this one job in exchange for his friend's’ safety, only to find out the target is none other than Wolverine. With the help of Aracely, Kaine has to infiltrate the Jean Gray Academy and take out Wolverine before bringing half of the mutant population down on himself.
This issue is great from start to finish. As I mentioned, it’s a great jump-on point for new readers, but the highlight of this issue is Carlos Barberi’s pencils. Scarlet Spider and company haven’t looked this good since Ryan Stegman left. I’m really hoping Barberi is on for the long haul, as he’s a great match for Yost’s storytelling.
While technically part of the Spider-Man family, Scarlet Spider continues to stand on its own as one of the better books Marvel is putting out each month.
4.5 out of 5 Snikts