“Not sure if it’s broken my collarbone, my morality, or both” seems to be the theme in this bloody and violent trade.

In “Rise of the Olympians,” Wonder Woman’s life is completely shattered. With her friends, family and potential for love destroyed by Genocide, you would think that our favorite Amazon would find a corner and remain in the fetal position. But this is the Amazon princess we’re talking about. Shaped from the earth of Themyscira and born from the blood of Hippolyta and the power of Athena, Wonder Woman remains strong through several shattering revelations.

Through the manipulations of Cheetah (Dr. Minerva) we see the creation of Genocide, a monstrous creature born of the genocides that are constantly occurring around the world. As Dr. Morrow relates: “After the holocaust…people said…They said, ‘Never again.’ They were wrong. There have been dozens of attempted genocides since. We’ve learned nothing.”

In attempting to defeat this foe with no off-button, Wonder Woman learns the true nature of this abomination. And that’s not even the worst of it.

Of course, the Olympian gods are involved. Ares plays a significant role, since war and carnage are everywhere. Godly allies also fall, but give Wonder Woman information to help her temporarily rid the world of Genocide. Yes, it will only be a short time because if gods are involved, you can bet that nothing stays buried forever.

And as the revelations continue, Wonder Woman does what no one will see coming, but will highly respect her for.

The artwork of Aaron Lopresti, Matt Ryan and company is top notch and the way the alternate covers are dispersed throughout the trade gives the reader a chance to catch their breath before returning to the pulsating action.

However, it is the amazing writing of Gail Simone, Grant Morrison and Geoff Johns that makes this paperback worth owning. As chief writer of this book, Simone gives Wonder Woman the personality that Superman wishes he had.

Yes, she feels a duty to her people and the United States, but her dry wit and warrior instinct make her actions unpredictable. When she gets angry and allows the rage to take control – watch out. The panel where she rescues her friend Etta, in particular, will leave you awestruck.

Gathered from “Wonder Woman” issues 26-33, “Rise of the Olympians” (January-June 2009) is the perfect starting off point if you have not picked up the comic for a while, or if you’re new to the Amazon mythos. With open storylines and dramatic twists, this is one trade that will have you clamoring for more of the Amazon princess.

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