Hawkeye #13 Review

Hawkeye #13

Publisher: Marvel Comics
Writer: Kelly Thompson
Artist: Leonardo Romero
Letterer: Joe Sabino
Color Artist: Jordie Bellaire
Cover Artist: Julian Totino Tedesco

Review by Anelise Farris

Hawkeye #13 begins a new arc with the legendary Kate Bishop. I only read the first issue of Kelly Thompson’s Haweye run—not because I didn’t enjoy it, but simply because I had numerous series I was following at the time. Now that things are a bit slower (thank you holidays), I was excited to jump back on board with this issue.

Here we aren’t just given one Hawkeye but two: Kate Bishop and Clint Barton are both in L.A. However, as you might have guessed, these two are not in L.A. to have a relaxing reunion. Kate wants Clint to help her locate her deceased mother, and Clint himself is on the run for his life.

Due to a measly post-it note with “Mom” written on it, and the hordes of arrows being shot at Clint from an unknown source, his troubles take precedence. What starts as a clue of blue hair leads to a woman named Eden Vale, who has a serious grievance against Clint. As if that’s not enough, when the two Hawkeyes become separated, Vale offers Kate a partnership with a tempting reward.

For readers like me who have not been following Hawkeye, this issue opens with a helpful case report that provides all the necessary background information without coming across as heavy exposition. The comic moves at a smart pace, balancing action with those human necessities like grabbing a slice of pizza. It is hard not to fall for Kate’s character; she is smart and sarcastic and definitely proves that purple is the best color. The dialogue between Kate and Clint flows well, and I am a huge fan of Lucky the dog—who may or may not be in love with a wolverine.

Hawkeye #13 does not just offer readers a great story, however, as it also beautifully illustrated. The thick line-art and abundance of motions lines are carefully balanced by a minimal art-style and solid panel backgrounds. This prevents the comic from feeling too busy. The humor that we get in the writing is also depicted in the art, as we see Lucky sneaking off with a piece of pizza or Kate being exasperated at Clint. Art and story come together seamlessly in Hawkeye #13, and I can’t wait to see what comes next for Kate.

Verdict:
Buy it! Hawkeye #13 is a great jumping on point for new readers, and Kate Bishop is hard not to like. Although she and Clint are both respectable Hawkeyes, I like that she’s not a stickler, willing to go “off brand” and throw knives if needed.