Writer: Jeph LoebPlot: After trying to save another cop from the Hangman, Batman heads to the morgue, where he finds Catwoman in a compromising situation.
More plot threads reveal themselves here than in any of the earlier books.
The Viti family returns to Gotham, and they're attempting an alliance with the Maronis. I just don't understand why Lucia Viti would discuss her mob plan with recently freed Umberto and Pino in front of at least four cops, who're clearly aware of her.
Now the Maronis, through Zucco, are moving Selina's stuff somewhere else, so she must be in league with them in some way, since she was quite close to Mario Falcone in the first book. And with the Zitis influencing the Maronis, Selina better be careful where she puts her paws.
Who clonked Catwoman in the morgue? When Batman comes to rescue her, she looks less than half his size, when she's in his arms.
It's interesting how relationship difficulties between Bruce and Selina spill over into Batman and Catwoman's encounter, even though each doesn't know who the other is, under their masks. In Dark Victory #3, Bruce stands up Selina on Christmas Eve. This issue finds Batman attempting to solicit a clue about Catwoman's involvement with the Falcones. Just as Selina became frustrated with Bruce's antics back in December, she likewise doesn't play into Batman's hands, in her alter ego.
Perhaps the nicest surprise in the book was the intruder in the Gordon household. My face lit up when I saw her return! Finally, Jim has something optimistic happen in his life again. Unfortunately, if you know your Bat-history, you can already see where that's going...
