26  “Absolute Zero” (Flash #182)

Captain Cold maybe a thief, but is he a murderer? Maybe. And we find out why.

Writer: Geoff Johns
Penciler: Scott Rollins
Inker: Dan Panosian
Colorist: James Sinclair, Digital Chameleon
Letterer: Gaspar Saladino

This story offers insights into the mind of Leonard Snart, aka Captain Cold – his backstory, origin, and the tragic fate that befell his sister. While interesting, at a single it’s all too perfunctory to offer much in the way of emotional investment.

27  Sabretooth: Death Hunt (1993)

Betrayed by his telepathic girlfriend, kidnapped by the mysterious Tribune, programmed to target Mystique, challenged by Wolverine… It’s a bad day to be Sabretooth. But it’s an even worse day to oppose him!

Writer: Larry Hama
Artist: Mark Texeira
Colorist: Steve Buccelato
Letterer: Richard Starkings

The glimpse into Victor Creed’s abusive childhood offers a tantalizing peek into his psyche, but the flashbacks feel a little too tropey to offer much in terms of depth. In a similar vein, Sabretooth’s complicated relationship with the telepathic Birdy, one of the most interesting aspects of this book, is never really explored. Instead, Death Hunt leans into the action and over-the-top violence that, while certainly entertaining, ultimately culminates in a story that fails to deliver much of an emotional impact.

28  Penguin: Pain and Prejudice (2011-2012)

This story charts young Oswald Cobblepot rise from the simple apple of his mother’s eye to crime lord and one of Batman’s greatest adversaries.

Writer: Gregg Hurwitz
Artist: Szymon Kudranski
Coloris: John Kalisz
Letterer: Rob Leigh

A compelling character study of one of Batman’s lesser appreciated villains, this story delves into Oswald Cobblepot’s tragic childhood and his unwavering devotion to his mother. The flashbacks paint him in a sympathetic light, yet the current-day narrative reveals his formidable power and propensity for cruelty. The introduction of a potential love interest is well done, adding a whole other layer of vulnerability to his complicated character, but all of these elements are shortchanged by a final issue that feels rushed and doesn’t fully stick the landing. Still, a lot to love.