Ms. Marvel Vol. 8: Mecca by

An enemy from Ms. Marvel's past resurfaces and begins targeting those closest to Kamala. As the world around her is spinning out of control, it becomes clear that this time there's something more sinister at work...Kamala's no stranger to fighting for what's right, but in facing down this challenge, everything she is will be called into question. Not just as a super hero, but as a human being.

The series picked up in 8 and felt more like the enjoyable Ms. M series. Liked the addition of a previous friend in new form, interested to see where that plot goes.

Story
This volume is made up of 2 stories. The first is made up of 3 issues, and was the better of the two. It deals with a lot issues that are very close to home with hate, fear and discrimination. It was hard to read at times, and I was wondering just how dark the series was going to go. I don't want to spoil anything, but I will say I thought it was well done.

The second story felt like more of a transition. It brought back a character from earlier in the series whose details were a bit hazy to me. It's been a bit of a stretch since I read the last few volumes of this. Thankfully there was enough of a reminder built in without rehashing plot that I think I'm mostly good.

The story of these two issues was kind of bland, but the ending set up for some hopefully interesting issues ahead.

I'd give the first story a 4 and the second a 3, so overall I'm giving this volume a 3.5.

Artwork
Apparently there are 2 different artists. One for each arch. I honestly didn't really notice the difference. I'm not sure what happened with the original artist. I don't recall if he drew the last volume or what but the artwork throughout was solid.

4 stars Families are funny. Sometimes you get up in the morning and you see them and you're like, “God not you again”. But the second they're in trouble and scared, all your ideals and politics and what-would-I-do-if scenarios evaporate.This.

It's good to get back into this series, it's one of my favorites. I LOVE the art in these books, really is nice and has a natural flow to things. There is a lot to balance here for Ms. Marvel, superhero-ing, school, life, community, and now a hostile political group.

This took a more serious turn, as the volume echos some of the political atmosphere that is happening currently. I personally like this, gives readers perspective of how it is affecting other people. Also brings in a good question about being a superhero in this time. How does a hydra member being a position of community power bring/take to your super hero table. This is something I how they dive more into. I really think this comic has some good political/superhero commentary.

Train ride was a bit of a yawn? I'm glad to see Red Dagger again, I guess this is an idea issue for them to talk and connect? I'm also wondering about Ms. Marvel's time alone and how she will grow from this volume.

~Ashley