Deathstroke, Vol. 4: Defiance

Deathstroke (2016)

by Christopher J. Priest, Diogenes Neves (Illustrator), Jason Paz (Illustrator)

Deathstroke is a changed man. The world’s deadliest assassin has seen the light, and now he can no longer bring himself to take lives. So what’s an unrivaled mercenary to do when he can no longer kill? Start a superhero team, of course.

 Slade has recruited a group of young heroes into Project Defiance, including Kid Flash, Power Girl, Terra and his children, Rose and Jericho. Deathstroke claims his goal is to shape them into the heroes they’re meant to be. But no one on the team trusts the others...and they trust Deathstroke least of all.

 Can a lifelong assassin really leave his past behind and become a hero? Why has Slade really agreed to train Defiance? And when his enemies rise against him and kidnap Deathstroke...has he trained his team well enough to tangle with the most dangerous super-villains in the world?

 In one of the most acclaimed series of the year, writer Christopher Priest (Justice League) and artists Diogenes Neves (Green Arrow) and Jason Paz (Batman and Robin Eternal) take Deathstroke in a surprising new direction. Collects Deathstroke #21-25 and a Deathstroke story from DC Universe Holiday Special #1.

Genres: Comics, Dc Comics, Graphic Novels, Superheroes, Comic Book, Graphic Novels Comics, Action

132 pages, Kindle Edition

First published April 24, 2018

About the author

Formerly (before 1993) known as James or Jim Owsley.

Christopher James Priest is a critically acclaimed novelist and comic book writer. Priest is the first African-American writer and editor for Marvel and DC Comics. His groundbreaking Black Panther series was lauded by Entertainment Weekly and The Village Voice and will serve as the basis for the 2018 Marvel Cinematic Universe adaption.

Besides Black Panther, Priest has written comics for Conan, Steel, Green Lantern, The Crew and edited The Amazing Spider-Man. He also co-created Quantum & Woody along with Mark Bright and co-founded Milestone Media.

After a decade long hiatus he is currently writing comic books again and recently concluded a stint writing the comic book Deathstroke (2016-2019).

In addition to being a writer, Christopher J. Priest is also a baptist minister.

Reviews

[James DeSantis · Rating 3 out of 5]

"The start of a new era!" Yep, sure does feel like it.

Deathstroke has been one of the bigger surprises out of Rebirth. It got Christopher Priest writing style mixed with a character I gave two shits about, and formed into one hell of a book about family and betrayal. The "new era" the book claims at the start feels like something new while keep the past of what worked intact.

So Deathstroke has gone religious. Yes, you heard that right, but now he's ready to stop killing and turn to God. I mean he'll still fuck you up but he doesn't want to kill. In doing so he decides to form this "Academy" which is just taking a bunch of kids/young adults and forming a team called the Defiance. However, half the team is his family...and we all know how well that works out in the end.

Good: The team dynamic is messy as shit but in a good way. You have good people on here like Power Girl and Kid Flash mixed up with people like Rose and Slade you know it can't end well, and it doesn't, but it'll sure make you laugh. The art stays with style and everything looks really well done. Also the idea of focusing on each character and giving them growth is great.

Bad: It, like most of Deathstroke so far, can get confusing. Priest doesn't write in a normal way that's easy to understand, but that kind of makes you want to re-read it. Still, it can be confusing and also this one is really short compared to the others. And it feels like a set up, I have a feeling what we get next will show what it's all about.

Overall this is another very solid volume in a already solid series. While volume 3 remains the best there still hasn't been anything horrible. A 3.5 out of 5.

[Chad · Rating 4 out of 5]

Deathstroke decides he's no longer going to kill after the Lazarus Contract crossover. He starts a team of Teen Titan castoffs called Defiance. I liked the interactions of these screw ups as Deathstroke tests them. I also liked that Priest brought the Society back. I always thought that was a cool idea. The art by Diogenes Neves and Carlos Pagayuan is very sharp, although I can't imagine Deathstroke fighting with a cape.

[Chris Lemmerman · Rating 4 out of 5]

[Read as single issues]
The actual contents of this trade will be interesting to see, since Defiance starts in issue 21 and ends in issue 29, including an Annual, but I can't see DC collecting 10+ issues in one volume. So let's assume that #21-25 is correct for now, and #26-29 will be volume 5 before we get to Deathstroke Vs. Batman for Volume 6, shall we?

Defiance is an interesting idea. After his religious experience in the Speed Force during the Lazarus Contract crossover, Deathstroke decides to reform. No more killing for the most killing-est man alive. Instead, he forms a team of Teen Titans under the tutelage of his psycho ex-wife Adeline to try and do some good in the world. Yeah, right.

Comprised of Kid Flash, Terra (Yes, that one), Power Girl, Jericho, and Rose Wilson, Defiance goes about as well as you'd expect. Deathstroke's agenda feels genuine for a while, which is surprising considering the character's history, but it's proof of Priest's writing that he can convince us of a face turn for someone like Slade. Of course, his history catches up to him in the form of the Red Lion, the murder of his son's wife, and the myriad other plot points that Priest has been juggling since the series began. This may be a new direction for the title but it's by no means forgetting what came before it.

The artwork is all by Diogenes Neves, who I don't think has had a regular gig at DC for a long time (I want to say Demon Knights? I miss Demon Knights, but I digress), instead providing fill-in art across a lot of titles instead. Neves fits the aesthetic of the book that Joe Bennett and Carlo Pagulayan have established so far, with Pagulayan returning for the bumper sized issue 25. The book also went monthly instead of fortnightly during this era, so that helped Neves keep to the schedule I expect.

Defiance may be all shiny and new, but it's really just the next step on Deathstroke's journey, one that you don't want to miss.

[Quentin Wallace · Rating 3 out of 5]

Deathstroke finally goes full fledged "hero" and leads a superteam in this volume, although he spends more time playing tricks on them in the name of training than really accomplishing much. When Deathstroke stole the Flash's powers he somehow also inherited some of his heroism. Really, it just seems fake and I know we're all waiting for the moment Deathstroke snaps and returns to his evil ways (which I think happens in the next volume.) There's also an appearance by the Secret Society of Super Villains which is neat. The art is above average, but the volume itself really isn't. This series has been middle of the road for me since the start. Not bad, not really good, but worth reading anyway.

[Arthi · Rating 1 out of 5]

Why is anyone collaborating with Slade after what he did to them? Still not sure why Joey killed Ikon.

[Alan · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really should have entered this when I finished reading it. That's not a complaint about the title's quality, as this is one I's still reading digitally on a regular basis.

What, on the surface, appears to be in conflict here is Prieest's stated objective that at no time are we to think Wilson is a good person. This is a title about a bad man. Unlike just about every other writer working in this medium, Priest hasn't strayed too far from his mission statement until now.

Wilson assembles a team of young super heroes and decides he's going to do right in the world (the effect of what he saw when he tapped into The Flash's speed force.

The problem is no one quite believes Wilson. Neither his "friends" (other hired killers), the members of his own team, Wintergreen, or an organized group of super villains. Yet, in his own twisted way Wilson is doing good.

I hope Priests stays on this title for awhile.

[B. P. Rinehart · Rating 5 out of 5]

I may one day get tired of this series....but that day is not on the horizon. The man responsible for the events of The New Teen Titans: The Judas Contract has a "religious experience" and decides to form his own version of the Teen Titans. Things go exactly as you think they would.

[Alex E · Rating 3 out of 5]

After his life changing encounter with the speed force, Deathstroke has turned over a new leaf, and created a super team as a force of good.

Yeah that's right... GOOD. It's strange to see Deathstroke want to be a good guy. And even though you start to see the loose ends beginning to appear here and there, it seems that Deathstroke is legitimately a changed person. Of course, being who he is, he is still doing things his way, but it does seem he has a new "code" that he is following, which prevents him from being a full villain. Speaking of villains, the issues with The Society putting him on trial to find out if he is still evil was super fun and well done. Probably one of my favorite issues of this run so far.

The art is handled mostly by newcomer Diogenes Neves. And the book looks very good because of his art. It is a bit similar to Deodato, so the tone and look of the art goes great with the subject matter that is currently being explored. I think Neves can reach some heights here if he gets a bit more comfortable with the characters and how they move. Good job on the art overall.

This was a fun volume if only because it is a much more straightforward approach to the writing. It still bounces back and forth in the typical Priest style, but its not so enigmatic as previous volumes. Recommended for fans of a more straightforward Deathstroke story.

[Corey Allen · Rating 2 out of 5]

So Deathstroke is a good guy now?

So, Deathstroke decides to lead this group of teens called the defiance. Which honestly made this comic into Teen Titians Rejects featuring Deathstroke. Which is not what I signed up for.

So who is in this new team? Well we have Rose and Jericho. They are basically continuing there stories from the last volumes. Then we have Power Girl and Kid Flash, who are literally Teen Titans rejects (You thought I was joking, didn't you). Oh and Tara is there too. I don't really know what say about her, she was just there.

I think my biggest problem was it was just boring to read. I just wanted it to end. Which is disappointing since I loved the last volume. I thought that this series was finally getting good. But, nope.
Conclusion: Deathstroke is a terrible superhero. Next volume better have him be a villain or I riot.

[Nikki in Niagara · Rating 5 out of 5]

Deathstroke has formed his own team now that he has given up being "evil". He has chosen superhero youths including his own children, Kid Flash and Supergirl whom he will "train" by sending them on missions. Deathstroke handpicks the missions which are worthy of him and leaves whatever agency or government he has helped an invoice for services rendered. A lot of fun! The outfits for the team are pretty goofy but otherwise, I really liked the team.

[Jake Nap · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 stars

Deathstroke by Priest continues it’s quality as a good monthly superhero book. I enjoy reading it. The last issue in this collection though was really really good. Second best single in the run.

[The Spooky Jedi · Rating 3 out of 5]

Quick read. Decent story

[Sarospice · Rating 2 out of 5]

I was excited about the idea of Deathstroke leading a team again. He's perfect for it! And DEFIANCE could even be it's own title. Ugh. But not if you're going to neuter Slade in all this I CAN CHOOSE TO BE EVIL OR GOOD crap. He's the Terminator! He's never been about good or bad, simply the price. All other characters stand around waiting for shoe to drop...

[Paul Spence · Rating 4 out of 5]

Following the events of "Lazarus Contract" (a so-so crossover event that sadly must be read to understand the new plot twists in this series) Slade Wilson has decided he can no longer be an assassin. Instead, Slade decides to go the superhero route and form his own team named Defiance.

Featuring Wally West (the younger), Jericho, Rose, and Power Girl, Slade is teaching the new generation of young heroes his own dark brand of justice. The team is under the thumb of his ex Adeline who is also insisting on Terra's inclusion on the team with a long game of supplanting Slade.

Priest's wicked portrayal of Slade hasn't softened much thanks to the assassin's new heroic bent and the inter-family relationships remain fascinating as well. The highlight comes near the end when Slade is dragged before the Secret Society of Supervillains to answer for his new heroic lifestyle (with the series also pointing out that Lex Luthor and Killer Frost have switched sides as well). The Society puts Slade on trial over whether or not he can still be considered "evil."

The whole routine (with the Riddler serving as the defense attorney) is darkly hysterical. It seems that everyone knows it is only a matter of time until Slade reverts to his old ways of life, but for now the assassin is sure intent on proving everyone wrong. For a dramatic change of pace for the character, Priest makes it feel both earned and natural, all while sowing the seeds for Defiance to come crashing down around Deathstroke.

[Des Fox · Rating 4 out of 5]

Well I didn't read the preceding crossover content, so I know I'm jumping in just a step out of tune, but this series has an addictive quality, and it didn't take long to be back on board. Priest is such a great writer, and he brings a very unique style and tone to the Deathstroke universe. The family drama is so over-the-top and juicy, that you just can't help but keep coming back to the table for more. There's also some underappreciated representation of marginalized folks going on here in the background of this title about an angry old white dude. The whole thing is very complex, and while at times confusing, a totally enriching read.

I was torn between 3 and 4 stars, because the whole Defiance angle feels like a set-up. It doesn't feel like a bold new direction for Deathstroke, but rather a swerve for some dramatic event. Maybe I'm just suspicious of Christopher Priest, but there are too many pieces on the board for this to end well. (Not to mention the wonderful Society issue and it's specific revelation...)

But Hell, this book is so fun, and one of the best Rebirth titles. The final issue is great, and there's a Hmong b-story which is serving as an intriguing (and educational) through-line. It really feels like this book could have a major payoff, and that hype pushes me over to the fourth star.

[Kevin · Rating 4 out of 5]

Justo cuando pensaba rendirme, Priest me atrae de nuevo con peleas locas entre héroes y villanos, y con lo nuevo en que se está metiendo Slade, la línea entre esas dos palabras se pone borrosa y delicada.

Prefiero ver más de los demás personajes que de Deathstroke, pero no quiero leer otra cosa que no sea de Priest con ellos (tiene sentido?). Las aventuras del equipo de Deathstroke fueron muy divertidas y que al final venga Slade a pasar factura es lo que le da el toque de gracia a una fórmula que me gustaría ver explorada más a fondo en el futuro. Si, son héroes por contrato como Luke Cage, pero es la primera vez que de verdad veo una factura siendo entregada a los civiles salvados.

Las secuencias en las escenas de acción fueron asombrosas. Especialmente los poderes de Wally West y la chica que se hace gigante. Son los que más brillan en ese volumen.

El dibujo en general fue regular. Lo disfruté pero no es un estilo que se salga de la norma. Pero por algo funciona y no me voy a quejar. No todos los artistas de cómics van a ser experimentales con sus trazos.

[Shannon Appelcline · Rating 4 out of 5]

Defiance is practically a soft-boot of the Deathstroke title, with a determined-to-do-good-Deathstroke creating a new Defiance team of young heroes. And, it's very successful. Where the first volumes of the new Deathstroke were intriguing, but somewhat muddy because of the split focus of Deathstroke's family, here Priest brings it all together into a coherent storyline.

The interactions among the Defiance team are the strong heart of the volume, but there are also some great conflicts first with Dr. Light and then with The Society. The latter, which takes place in the standalone final issue, is the best of the volume, because after an arc of Slade being "good"(ish) we get a great alternate take on what that means.

Overall, this volume renewed my interest in Deathstroke (which only flagged somewhat because it's quite challenging) and made me want to keep reading.

[Krzysztof Grabowski · Rating 2 out of 5]

Wraca Deathstroke, wraca jego dysfunkcyjna rodzina, z tym wyjątkiem że Slade tutaj gra tego dobrego, ubierając się nawet w inny uniform i porzucając swój miecz. W dodatku zbiera tytułową grupę Defiance, w skład w której wchodzi jego syn, córka (nie, to nie jest nepotyzm), nowaPower Girl czy Kid Flash. I jest to całkowicie zbędne...

Bo i tak koniec końców Slade wróci do swojego charakterystycznego wdzianka, a potem znów będzie zabijał na zlecenie, albo i nie. Autor mógł już sobie darować takie wybieg, bo całość jest mocno generyczna i zapycha tylko miejsce. Ale taka miała być tego rola. Pierwsze potknięcie Priesta, choć czytać się to da. Tylko po co.

[Jack Stubblefield · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have the complete collection in single-issue format. I read them as I bought them and remember being confused as all hell. There were lots of changes in times, places, and the plot that I didn't 'get it.' Now, with time and the ability to read the first 5 volumes in TPB format . . . this is a great story! I guess I'm in the right place and the right time to understand the nuances of what Mr. Priest is doing in the story. I definitely recommend the first 5 volumes of Rebirth Deathstroke. Good stuff, Maynard!

[Kevin · Rating 4 out of 5]

I think this was the strongest leg of Priest's run on Deathstroke so far. He does a good job in calling back to prior events and building on them. It isn't something you see much in comics nowadays - an effort to continuously build on and directly "replay" prior scenes in the run. It makes it feel more TV / story like incorporating flashback sequences that do a good job reminding you of what happened or where the next bit of storytelling direction is going towards.

[Andrew · Rating 5 out of 5]

This volume collects the first part of the Defiance story arc. It's a great arc, and the last issue included here, #25, is particularly good. Priest has put together an interesting team, with complex dynamics and relationships.

One thing to note is that this does not complete the arc. You'll need to next volume (presumably) to do that. Also, I wouldn't recommend reading this if you haven't read the previous volumes of Priest's run. There's a lot of backstory referenced here.

[Ron · Rating 3 out of 5]

Deathstroke and his ex-wife have created a team of young superheroes that he is training. But each of the team members has issues with him. Some resent his attention, some think that he is hiding something, while others think that he has not reformed at all, that this is just a very strange charade. And then the Society comes calling. But the funnest story is the Christmas tale that ends the book! Too bad about Santa.

Thanks Netgalley for the chance to review this title.

[Aidan]

Not the strongest chapter in the run, but I loved the Christmas story and the Society of Super-Villains trial. The Project Defiance stuff is a cool idea but is honestly more action adventure than I’d like from this, and Priest for some reason feels the need to have characters explain in dialogue whats already happened in the run repeatedly at the start of every issue which makes it feel dated.

[David the Ñoldo · Rating 3 out of 5]

Unfortunately, issues 21-24 seemed more like set-up and filler episodes, perhaps Priest was working on JL or Inhumans simultaneously. Issue 25 is definitely the highlight of this. Slade's interaction with The Riddler and the rest is back to the more entertaining Slade Wilson.

[Timothy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Deathstroke's continued poor attempts at being a dad are even more hilarious as he expands it to being a leader for a team of teenage/young adult superheroes. The Defiance team gives this book the best arc it's had yet which is saying something.

[B · Rating 3 out of 5]

The story makes a lot of sense for a Deathstroke story. Kind of like a Wolverine & the X-Men arc.

To some degree, you wind up with too many characters and too many plot threads.

I'd be interested in what happens next.

[Brendan Mckillip · Rating 3 out of 5]

Not sure if I am totally onboard with the whole Defiance storyline, but I am willing to see where things go. I have confidence in Priest’s storytelling skills. Let’s see how things wrap up in the next volume.

[Robert Hultman · Rating 3 out of 5]

This storyline is okay. I like certain elements and the presentation and writing are good (if a bit too Quentin Terentino-esque). I can’t tell if the part about the Defiance team is important or just there to keep other characters close by while we go on the born-again journey with Slade.

[Daniel Butcher · Rating 4 out of 5]

Maybe extra points for Priest writing.

I just can't get past hero Deathstroke.

[Robert · Rating 3 out of 5]

The most consistent of the rebirth titles in terms of story and art and style.