Book Review: The Flash Vol. 4: Running Scared

The Flash Vol. 4: Running Scared by Joshua Williamson

My rating: 3 of 5 stars


The Flash is back in the aftermath of his crossover with Batman in the Button. This book collects Issues 23-27 of the Flash and contains two separate storylines that are linked. Iris throws Barry a surprise birthday party and he's distracted, really only able to focus on Hal Jordan (who got away from the events of the Green Lantern Corps book for a birthday party.) So they have to team up and fight a villain while the Reverse Flash kidnaps Iris and attacks Wally.

The art is weak to mediocre throughout most of the book. What really drives the book is the story as Barry is forced to examine why he keeps so many secrets and questions whether he should tell Iris the truth. There are some good character moments. Even Reverse Flash has some good ones as we understand a bit of his backstory. Although, that does turn a bit pathetic.

This book's not bad, but I think it does have a problems and to be honest, I'm a bit concerned about the direction of the book. It feels like Barry's beginning a 2017 version of Daredevil prior to Mark Waid coming on board. Daredevil was the character Marvel writers put through as much as Hell as possible. It seems like since the first volume Barry's been on a downward cycle as all the key relationships close to him are being compromised and he's been hit with dump trucks full of guilt.. It'd be nice if the book got fun again. Still, there are some compelling ideas here and I just have to hope this will turn around soon.

****I received a free digital copy in exchange for an honest review***.



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