The Setup: Batwoman, Volume 2: To Drown the World, is an ambitious continuation of Kate Kane's journey as Gotham's enigmatic protector. This Volume delves deeper into Batwoman's struggles, not only with the supernatural threats facing the city but with her complex personal relationships, particularly her romance with Detective Maggie Sawyer and her strained familial ties.

The storyline consists of a fragmented yet intricate puzzle, following multiple perspectives and timelines as Batwoman faces the deadly Medusa organization and battles to save children kidnapped under mysterious circumstances. Interwoven with these high-stakes missions are glimpses into the lives of supporting characters, including Maggie, DEO Agent Cameron Chase, and Batwoman's father and her cousin. 

What I Liked: Honestly, this artwork is breathtaking. It's as much a storytelling device as the script itself. Innovative panel layouts and dynamic use of color create an immersive, dreamlike experience that complements the dark and mystical tone of the narrative. The visuals most certainly elevate the emotional weight of Kate's physical and psychological battles. Additionally, like the first Volume, I found this second Volume to be bold and thought-provoking. Once again, themes of love, loyalty, and identity are explored with some depth and nuance, making Kate Kane and other characters profoundly human and relatable.

What Could Have Been Better: The nonlinear storytelling was a challenge. While the art was undoubtedly fantastic, I believe that most readers wouldn't have been able to follow the tale as well as they could if it had been more linear. I understood where the artists and writers were going—they wanted to paint a rich, multifaceted portrait of Batwoman's world. However, there were some sequences where I felt like I missed something - either from the first Volume or another part of the world - and the flashbacks weren't a consistent timeframe. I began to forget what came before others and flipped pages back to determine the correct timeframe. Some of the villains, or their bosses, were also confusing. A lot was going on plot-wise, and while I felt it was nice to see glimpses of side characters in the novel, it also meant missing out on more character development, even for Batwoman herself (outside of her relationship, I suppose).

Overall, I still thought it was intriguing, and I genuinely loved the art. Here I come to the next one!