Titans #14: The Dark-Winged Queen Rises

Raven’s transformation into the Dark-Winged Queen is almost complete in Titans #14, and the Titans band together to take on their devilish friend. Written by Tom Taylor with art by Lucas Meyer and colors by Adriano Lucas, this issue follows the Titans as they learn that Rachel Roth’s body has been taken over by her dark self. The Titans set out to confront Raven but are instead interrupted by others set on stopping her. Can the Titans stop Raven’s full transformation into the Dark Winged Queen? This is a perfect issue with beautiful art, impeccable writing, and, best of all, Swamp Thing!

It’s no secret that I am a Tom Taylor stan. He has a way of bringing current societal issues to comics that doesn’t feel corny or forced. Taylor proves this and shows he really understands how to write the Titans and manages to break the usual view of them as teenagers. Taylor’s Titans feel like adults and make decisions and fight like real adults. I have been enjoying his run on Titans, and the Dark Winged Queen storyline has been my favorite (although I’m biased as any story involving Raven’s heritage is my favorite). This issue is perfectly paced, and seamlessly blends action and relationship-building like a Titans book should. I will say, in classic Taylor style this issue is rather short and leaves the reader excited to read more. This whole arc will read so fantastic in trade and flow so well without a month-long gap in between issues. Taylor’s writing is so good you just can’t put the comic down! Tom Taylor is writing the best Titans we’ve seen in a while and this is an era we will be talking about for years to come.

The art in this issue is absolutely stunning. Lucas Meyer and Adriano Lucas perfectly capture the essence of this iconic team and bring a fresh perspective while staying true to their classic looks.  I mean, whenever Nightwing is on the page I can’t help but stare at his perfection. The character designs in this issue are meticulously crafted, with each member of the Titans team rendered with distinctive features that really underscore their personalities. The standout character design in this issue is Raven, as she truly looks haunting in this issue. Her final form as the Dark-Winged Queen is something out of a horror movie and is terrifying. The action sequences in this issue are also a particular highlight as they showcase Meyer’s skill in creating a sense of movement and impact. The panel layouts are dynamic, with well-choreographed fight scenes that pulse with energy. The use of perspective amplifies the intensity of combat, making every punch, kick, and superpower feel impactful. Meyer’s ability to balance chaos with clarity makes it easy to follow the action without losing track of the narrative flow. This issue is a treat, and I can’t wait to see what happens next month!