Captain America v4 #1-21

Ed Burbaker is probably my favorite writer at the moment, and although his Cap is not his best work, it is pretty good. Spoilers will follow!!

The first 14 issues (sans a couple of stand alone stories) are one big story arc introducing Cap's new nemesis and the Winter Soldier, aka Bucky. This is a particularly good series for readers who are unfamiliar with Cap's history, like me. I know all the main points, but I am not familiar with some of the detailed history.

Throughout this arc there are many flashbacks to the WW2, be it Cap remembering it or simple flashbacks told by someone. It really felt like half of the story took place in the past. And it makes sense, since both Bucky and General Lukin are tied to Cap's past.

Art is by Steve Epting and Michael Lark. I remember Epting's art from his old Avengers days. I must say he has improved a lot! His line is now clean, and his action scenes are superb, easy to follow as it should be. Michael Lark has always been a favorite of mine, ever since I read Scene of the Crime, however I don't think his style suits superheroes too well. His flashback scenes are fine though.


Issues 15-21 plus the 65th Anniversary Special form the Red Menace storyline.First we are introduced (or re-introduced) to the Skull's daughter, Sin, who is resued by Brock. We learned that she is as evil as her father, and probably crazier than he is. In the meantime Bucky is alone and underground, and he seems to be going after Lukin.

Lukin however is very well protected, and Cap cannot do much to get to him. Lukin is also working with the Skull now, which makes him even more dangerous.

Cap and Sharon are close once again, especially now that Cap knows that Bucky is still alive and still himself. Brubaker keeps Bucky's appearances very limited, so that he is a mystery to us as well as Cap.

The overall storyline of Lukin/Skull's plan is not easy to follow, it really feels like a complex spy story at the moment, and I can't wait to see where it goes.

This is a fun series, full of action, espionage, characterization and drama. I am sure Brubaker has mapped out the overall storyline, and I really can't wait to read it.