Like many Marvel fans, I’m reading Civil War II. There are two issues out so far and considering it’s a limited series, it seems a good time to give some impressions on it. (And yes, there are spoilers!)

I don’t always read event or cross-over titles. I tend to stick with the titles I read and if an event invades it at some point, I read that issue and move on. But because it’s such a huge thing across the entirety of the Marvel universe and the main story involves a few of my favorite characters (primarily Captain Marvel), I thought it was worth going for. And, so far, I’m glad I chose to read it.

The premise involves stopping catastrophes before they happen based on the premonitions of a new inhuman. It is something that would divide the “average” population, which makes it more engrossing as it affects heroes and nonheroes alike. The first issue was pretty amazing and issue zero (a Free Comic Book Day edition) is a necessary read to get the full backstory. It’s not surprising that the true impetus of the conflict is the death of a pretty major character (War Machine) and the serious injury of another (She Hulk). Actually, issue one leaves you thinking there might be two deaths, and considering She Hulk has been a favorite character of mine for decades, I was pretty damn concerned.

The second issue explains a few things and shows Tony in “acting before thinking” mode. It also brings forth the force of the Inhumans (Medusa is a bad ass!) and sets up some real dividing lines. This issue isn’t quite as engrossing as the first issue, but it does develop the story further. I’m looking forward to the next issue, as well as getting into Choosing Sides to see where the allegiances of other heroes lie.