A new series of original novels based on characters from DC Comics kicks off with DC UNIVERSE: LAST SONS, written by Alan Grant, who tread similar waters with the 2001 Justice League novel BATMAN: THE STONE KING.
LAST SONS centers on three characters: Superman, the Martian Manhunter and Lobo. But this isn’t a superhero story, as Lobo – a boozing, horny, immoral bounty hunter – is the star of the show. He rides across the galaxy on his talking, booby-trapped motorcycle, collecting payment for picking up wanted criminals. His latest target is J’onn J’onnzz, the Martian Manhunter, though he has not committed any crime. Lobo succeeds in capturing the green-skinned hero, who’s wanted by a rock giant named the Alpha, who imprisons him. The Alpha also double-crosses Lobo and snares Supes, who followed his friend. They’re all desired for being the only survivors of their respective home planets, for wholly nefarious reasons, of course, so the enemies have to work together in order to escape.
Lobo is an odd choice for a central character, but at least doing so makes LAST SONS a little less predictable. Apparently, this anti-hero picked up profanity lessons from JOHNNY DANGEROUSLY, and his dialogue is a little hokey, but I suppose appropriate to the character. The novel assumes a level of familiarity with Lobo, but I had no idea who he was, so it made the beginning a little rough getting into. As the premise takes hold, though, no such troubles exist.
Midway through, the book starts to spin its wheels, lacking further ideas and in need of more plot. However, since that clears the way for one action set piece after another, the target audience is likely not to complain. All in all, this is a serviceable adventure, heavy on sci-fi derring-do with killer robots, strange creatures and a least one bosomy waitress. LAST SONS may only exist as a product of corporate synergy, but I’m glad it does. –Rod Lott
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