Absolute Wonder Woman #15: What is Magic?

Absolute Wonder Woman #15 is a monumental entry in DC’s Absolute publishing line, serving as the first meeting between two of its major, headlining characters: Wonder Woman and Batman. At the end of the previous issue, Diana discovers that a murder scene in Gotham bears the mark of Hecate, an inciting event that leads directly into the opening of this issue. While the story centers on this murder mystery, the real focus lies in the meeting between these two characters and what it means for the greater Absolute Universe.

It should go without saying that Hayden Sherman has solidified their place as one of the most definitive artists of the past year. With Sherman’s award-winning work on both Absolute Wonder Woman and Batman: Dark Patterns, it feels like a no-brainer to have them illustrate the first meeting between the breakout stars of DC’s recent publishing slate. After reading Absolute Wonder Woman #15, it is clear Sherman was the perfect choice. Their distinctive style brings both characters to life, elevating this momentous encounter even further. This is reinforced by dynamic action sequences that emphasize the contrast between each character’s fighting style.

While Sherman’s artwork alone makes this issue a must-buy, it may also represent Kelly Thompson’s strongest work of 2025. Absolute Wonder Woman is clearly Thompson’s passion project, but her command of Absolute Batman makes it feel as though she has been writing the character for years. The interplay between the two heroes is a highlight and is sure to bring a smile to readers’ faces. This begins with Batman questioning the nature of magic, to which Diana responds in a way that echoes familiar explanations while also making the concept clearer than ever. It is this intersection of magic and practicality that makes their relationship so compelling, and the dialogue between them feels rich, thoughtful, and deeply rewarding for fans.

The overarching plot revolves around Veronica Cale’s attempt to destroy Wonder Woman through magical means. While the premise itself is not groundbreaking, the execution elevates every page. Though this is technically the first half of a two-part story, with its conclusion continuing in the next Absolute Batman issue, it also functions as a complete narrative with a clear beginning, middle, and end. By working together to solve the mystery, Batman and Wonder Woman learn everything they need to know about one another, deepening both the worldbuilding of the Absolute Universe and the lore surrounding Diana. The issue ultimately reaches a satisfying conclusion that serves as a perfect capstone to this momentous book.