Shea Fontana had some big shoes to fill when she took over Wonder Woman after Greg Rucka’s phenomenal run, but she’s stepped up to the challenge and crafted a compelling story rooted in Diana’s innate sense of empathy and duty. Fontana has done exceptional work with the best-selling DC Super Hero Girls graphic novels, and she recognizes the value of writing for a wider age range. Her Wonder Woman issues skew a bit younger in terms of the tone and content, but she’s still tackling more mature themes while making a book that kids can understand and enjoy. It’s a tough balance to nail, but she’s doing it. This current arc is focusing heavily on Diana’s relationship with her best friend, Commander Etta Candy, and Fontana has brought a lot of compassion and tenderness to that bond, which is strengthened when Etta is injured after a bomb goes off at her brother’s wedding.
This exclusive preview of this week’s Wonder Woman #28 highlights Diana’s sympathy, starting with her leaving flowers at the grave of the woman who bombed the wedding. Artist David Messina and colorist Romulo Fajardo Jr. give this page a somber tone that accentuates Diana’s sadness, and when Etta gets mad that Diana visited the grave, Diana reminds her that Dr. Crawford was desperate to survive. Fontana has a deep understanding of Diana’s generous character, and when she sees a person in need, she will always be there to offer comfort and support. Messina reinforces this kindness with Diana’s expressions and body language, and Fajardo Jr.’s coloring blends beautifully with Messina’s linework. Fontana is only on Wonder Woman for six issues, but given the strength of her work thus far, hopefully she’ll be given another opportunity in the future to continue telling Diana’s solo adventures.