2.5 stars
Dang it.
The art is swell, but the story is just getting a bit boring. I know that's probably hard to believe, given the way the last book ended. There were flashes of action in this volume, but also a whole lot of talking. And the Negan storyline continues to be vexing and dumb.
I hope more happens in the next book and that Rick maybe does more and says less. ( )

Art is getting a little lazy. Hands often look like the turkeys children draw for Thanksgiving by outlining their splayed hands. Also, on the FIRST page the artist forgets Rick is missing a hand...one panel after drawing him without the hand.

The story told in this volume is a bit slow, by necessity. I'm also a little surprised and confused by their decision at the end of what to do/create, as it seemed like they already did/created it over their past few years. I mean, I can see brushing up and making it more organized, but this volume makes it seem like they are as inept as the television show's original Alexandrians.

I still love the series and these are nitpicky points. ( )

Another "transitional" collection, as it moves from Alpha's open declaration of hostility to the inevitable war to follow. This had some really good moments in it.

Kirkman and company seem to be going from strength to strength here. ( )

Oh yeah, gimme that good ole sweet manipulation of the masses. I live for this dynamic. ( )

Gave me the same vibes as the build up to the All Out War volumes with Negan gave. So I am expecting good things to come even if this was a bit lacklustre on its own. ( )