The fun of a Lois Lane series set in the modern DC Universe is that it can explore complicated, heady subjects that other superhero titles might not be able to. The big questions raised in Lois Lane #7 are all about how journalistic ethics bump up against the actions of costumed vigilantes, and some of the conclusions reached here are surprising.

The issue is primarily a long conversation between Lois Lane and Renee Montoya, aka The Question. After dispatching a photographer grabbing snaps of Lois kissing Superman (this issue must take place before Superman’s revelation of his identity to the world in his own title), Renee gives Lois the information she gathered a few chapters ago about the hit put out on her. 

Greg Rucka, as always when he’s writing Lois and Renee, crafts a compelling character study, interrogating both women’s outlooks on information gathering and crime-fighting. It’s to Rucka’s credit that, in an issue that’s almost entirely a conversation, it’s never dull. The debate Lois and Renee have is really compelling, and Rucka presents both sides honestly and entertainingly.

Mike Perkins’ art, as it has been for the whole series, is appropriately gritty and photorealistic. Perkins’ mastery of body language and facial expression is on full display in this issue, to significant effect. The colors by Gabe Eltaeb and the letters by Simon Bowland are also strong, rounding out the package for another great installment.

The only big flaw in the issue is that it’s over too soon. Something about the issue feels slight, and an early sequence in the UK feels tacked on out of nowhere. These are small quibbles, though, and overall, Lois Lane #7 is a strong entry in a strong series.

Grade: A-