Marvel’s big summer crossover this year may have been War of the Realms, but the second issue of Absolute Carnage shows it up in every way. Where War of the Realms was sprawling, touching every corner of the Marvel Universe, Absolute Carnage smartly keeps all the action in the Spider-family, giving it a tighter focus and clearer stakes.

This issue sees Venom and Spider-Man narrowly escape the Ravenscroft Institute, where they failed spectacularly last installment. After they’re safe, they concoct a new plan and split up. Meanwhile, it becomes clear in camp Carnage that two Cletus Kasadys are not necessarily going to work well together, before Carnage adds a heartbreaking new soul to his ranks.

Writer Donny Cates gives Carnage some floridly dark narration early on that’s a lot of fun. He also keeps the story moving, never letting the tension drop. Cates does his best not to hit the speedbumps of a crossover comic, but a few times there are jarring moments that make it clear that parts of the story are being told elsewhere.

Ryan Stegman’s pencils (with inks by JP Mayer) are superb. Stegman keeps the action kinetic and flowing. His real triumph, though, is the character acting, particularly with Eddie Brock’s facial expressions telling the story of mounting fear and despair. Colorist Frank Martin keeps the pages drenched in red. VC’s Clayton Cowles handles the lettering and has quite the challenge because Carnage’s typeface is difficult to read, but he keeps it clear enough.

Absolute Carnage #2 is a rip-roaring ride, though it’s over too quickly. It’s supported by a narrow focus and clear stakes, this issue was brutal sadistic fun.

Grade: A-