Marvel’s relaunch of She-Hulk – written by YA author Rainbow Rowell – continues with this second issue. Though the first issue felt a little too old school in terms of its cheesy dialogue-and-fighting structure at times, it was pretty accessible and new reader friendly, at least until its cliffhanger, which would have left new readers baffled. Issue 2 brings new and lapsed readers up to speed with exposition that feels necessary, even if it doesn’t feel particularly elegant.

Jack of Hearts – a radioactive superhero whose own powers killed him, quite some time ago – is back, and Jen (aka She-Hulk) is determined to find out if he is who he seems to be…and to help him if he indeed the real superhero he believes he is. Where has he been all this time? And how has he been resurrected, if he even actually died to start with? There’s also the matter of Jen’s new job, which she’s due to start the following morning.

This is actually a really strong issue and much more satisfying than the first. Rowell’s strength is clearly shown in the more subdued events of this issue, with most of the comic taking place as a two hander; a conversation between Jen and Jack, complete with flashbacks.

Though I lamented the lack of fourth wall breaking in the first issue, perhaps that was simply because the action felt a little unsatisfying; I certainly didn’t miss that aspect of She-Hulk here.

The art is beautifully old-school and that cover…well, just look at it! Roge Antonio is responsible for the interiors, with Jen Bartel on cover duties – and both have delivered spectacular work. It’s a great issue all around and a significant improvement on the first; I’m definitely on board for the rest of this five issue mini series.