Event Leviathan Reading Guide

Overview:

Event Leviathan is a DC Comics story arc published in 2019, written by Brian Michael Bendis, with art by Alex Maleev. The story centers on a mysterious organization known as Leviathan, which systematically dismantles the world’s leading intelligence agencies like A.R.G.U.S., Spyral, and the D.E.O. Their goal is to replace the old structures of power with a new order, but their methods and endgame are unclear.

The arc primarily features DC’s detective characters, including Batman, Lois Lane, Green Arrow, and The Question, who come together to figure out who is behind Leviathan. Their investigation pits them against an adversary that seems always to be a step ahead, using advanced technology and intricate planning to stay in control. The elusive foe remains hidden for much of the series, heightening the tension as the protagonists race against time to uncover Leviathan’s true identity and purpose.

Event Leviathan received mixed to positive reviews. Fans and critics praised Maleev’s gritty, noir-style artwork and Bendis’ dialogue, but some found the pacing slow and the resolution underwhelming. Many appreciated its focus on mystery and espionage over typical superhero action, but others felt it lacked major stakes compared to other DC events.

Best Way To Read:

• Event Leviathan
  • Collects: Event Leviathan #1 to #7

For crossover and significant events, I typically only read the main story the first time I encounter it. Trying to read all of the tie-ins with the story tends to make them increasingly convoluted and are not crucial to the main narrative. However, I think they are important to read, as many series-shifting plotlines can happen.

For the tie-in issues, I only read them as they come up in the reading guide that I am working through. This can become problematic because the tie-in issues are not always included in collected editions of the event. So you may need to hunt for them.

Reading Order:

References:

• Wikipedia
• Comic Book Herald
• Comic Book Reading Orders

Feature Image from Event Leviathan #4 cover art by Alex Maleev