Warning: contains spoilers for Faith Returns #1!
Valiant’sResurgence continues with Faith Returns #1, which establishes a bold new status quo for the publisher’s high-flying heroine. The breakout star of Harbinger, Faith became the first member of the team to headline her own solo title. The book was a smash hit, and launched Faith into comics’ upper echelon. Now, Faith has returned in a brand-new, two-issue miniseries that sets up a shocking new direction.
Faith Returns #1 is written by Jody Houser and drawn by Aleta Vidal. Previously, Faith was framed for murder, forcing her to go underground. When fans meet Faith, she is working an unfulfilling job as a journalist. Faith must wear a disguise and use an alias when she is out in public. Faith is approached by Brigadier General Capshaw, who offers Faith a deal: do some work for her and her name is cleared.
Faith comes back with a counter-offer: Capshaw uses her resources to find those who framed Faith, and allows her to clear her own name.
Faith, sometimes also called “Zephyr,” is one of the cornerstone Valiant heroes, and has been a pillar of every incarnation of their universe. Created by Jim Shooter and Dave Lapham for the original Valiant universe, Faith is a “Harbinger,” born with innate powers similar to Marvel’s mutants. Faith’s power allows her to fly. A geek by nature, Faith also has an extensive knowledge of pop culture tropes, which she references often in Faith Returns. Faith represents wish fulfillment for every child ever bullied for their love of science fiction and super-heroes, and fans have responded.
Jody Houser, who has written many of Faith’s adventures, returns for this exciting new chapter in the character’s life. Houser sprinkles just the right number of geek references throughout the script, which increases the issue’s charm. The action moves at a great pace and does an excellent job of bringing new readers up to speed on Faith’s life and adventures. Vidal’s art perfectly compliments Houser’s writing. Valiant fans old and new will find a lot to love in Faith Returns, and will be waiting with bated breath for the conclusion.
Faith’s original solo title was a hit for Valiant comics, and if Faith Returns is any indication, they have another success on their hands. Faith is the heart and soul of the Valiant Universe, and now she finds herself in a dire situation. Her name has been dragged through the mud in the worst possible way. Faith must confront the ones who framed her, and attempt to restore her good name. Brigadier Capshaw will also be waiting in the wings, ready to collect their deal. Valiant’sFaith Returns is an excellent start to a great new direction.
Faith Returns #1 is on sale now from Valiant Comics!