The latest chapter in “Riction of Reconciliation” brings a surprising pivot with writers Saladin Ahmed, artists Carlos Nieto, Jose Luis Soares, Oren Jr. and Jesus Abrutov to introduce a smooth new syndicate to Hell’s Kitchen in “New Direction.” That’s fitting as this crew takes over the issue with athletic confidence that removes both Daredevil and Hell’s Kitchen from balance. The cover you saw? Don’t trust that. The Lionsman is nowhere to be found. Instead, Ahmed and Company continue to scramble Matt Murdoch as Ark continues to twist the screws in unexpected ways.
Amazing
The presence of Nouvelle’s direction feels dangerous and refreshing, but the real standout here is the sharp, tense dialogue between Daredevil and Detective Cole North. Their exchange is one of the strongest moments in question, as Cole calls out Matt with a brutal philosophor about the middle schooler’s antics. It’s a smart beat, suggesting deeper self-work still ahead, peeling off the scabs of Matt’s emotional regression. The scene alone sets the stage for meaningful character development, assuming that Ark will have space to follow.
Amazing
The new gang creates chaos, but there are also surprise guest villains who add clever wrinkles to the fight choreography. Creative crew explore conflicts of conflicting forces and create dynamic sequences that are visually and strategically appealing. It’s an unexpected matchup like you’d like to have a rematch on the line, but it could be just one. Artistically, the baton passes from Nieto, who deals with the slower, more tense first half, to Soares, who embraces half of the brawl. This teamwork works well, causing problems to cause momentum and tone changes. At one point, I wanted to grab the legendary Marvel numbers and recreate my battles with the guest characters. Superhero books always give you fun inspiration.
Amazing
Despite the misdirection of the cover and solicitation, Daredevil #23 is a character-rich installment. The split structure works, players become plot, and once the story is breathable, the possibilities for emotional growth become clear. There is a growing sense that this arc may be accelerating towards an early conclusion. In particular, there are rumors that the volume will end with issue 25. Still, hopefully Ahmed has enough space for Matt to build stronger connections in this new life and earn a much-needed settlement without feeling rushed to the finish line.
“Daredevil” #23 Review: Don’t trust that cover!
Daredevil #23
Despite the misdirection of the cover and solicitation, Daredevil #23 is a character-rich installment. The split structure works, players become plot, and once the story is breathable, the possibilities for emotional growth become clear. There is a growing sense that this arc may be accelerating towards an early conclusion. In particular, there are rumors that the volume will end with issue 25. Still, hopefully Ahmed has enough space for Matt to build stronger connections in this new life and earn a much-needed settlement without feeling rushed to the finish line.
The verbal clash between Daredevil and Cole North is an outstanding moment, opening a deep hole in Matt’s inner conflict and setting up emotional growth in the future.
The handoff between Nieto’s grounded, moody opening page and Soares’ energetic action sequences creates a visual rhythm of pace that enhances both the drama and the brawl.
Nouvelle Direction presents street-level threats that feel grounded and modern, while guest stars add spice to the action with unique powers and tactical interactions.
The cover and solicitation suggest the continuation of Lionsman Ark.
With rumours of volume ending in issue 25, you may feel that new players and the introduction of competition is packed with.
