Black Widow

One of the most mysterious members of the Avengers has always been Black Widow partially because of her secretive backstory but also due to the lack of well-written books solely about the character. That's changed with this installment, a masterful work that finally allows the character to stand on her own ground. While working a series of jobs to atone for her crooked past, Widow uncovers a global assassination plot that threatens to unravel all that she has worked for. Edmondson's fast-paced and action-packed espionage story does an excellent job playing to the character's strengths, using her cunning to assess each situation and her agility and reflexes when it all goes to hell. Noto's luminous watercolorlike panels a welcome departure from more traditional superhero comics artwork create a soft atmosphere, which highlights the character's vulnerabilities and personality rather than the oversexed image that other artists have given her. This series starter is ideal for new fans, particularly those entranced by the ever-popular Avengers movie franchise or any who are eager to know more about this mysterious character.--Blenski, Peter Copyright 2014 Booklist