Rating: 
Summary: So repulsive I could not put it down
Review: The fact that Batman was indeed battling the ultimate evil of child pornography made his victory over the scum of the underworld that much sweeter. Because this evil is real in our society, I felt more strongly about this story than any other I've read. Vachss portrayed Batman as he is meant to be--the dark phantom of justice, bringing judgment upon the criminals of Gotham, swiftly and silently. In this book, Batman held fewer punches than in other material I've read. I'd like to see it kept that way. Waiting to see the Dark Knight give the evildoers their just dues kept me enthralled with this novel. I hope Vachss writes another.
Rating: 
Summary: The best Batman book!
Review: This is probably the best Batman book out there, and I'll tell you why.
Most Batman novels jump all over the place with many focal points. This one concentrates totally on Batman. While I don't mind following other characters, I would prefer sticking with the main character.
How does this compare to the other Batman novels? The novelizations are good but since you've probably seen the movie they will hold no surprise for you. Batman captured by the engines by Lansdale, a fine writer, does just what I don't like--it focuses on other people and leaves little time for Batman. The Batman murders and Batman to stalk a specter are good reads, definately worth your time but nothing to savor forever. Batman no man's land was very good but again the point of view changed dozens of times.Back to Vachss. A single point of view Batman is the best yet. And his gritty dark style doesn't hurt. It's also nice to see Vachss writing in third person for a change, though I wish he would've touched on another, possibly lighter subject matter. Had a different subject been chosen, this would've been the perfect vehicle for a blockbuster movie hit. Enjoy... Sean
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