Review:  This chapter definitely steps up the intensity level in the "Clarity" story, but as John Bintz promises, it'll be worth it in the end.  Given how good this series has been thus far, I'm willing to take a little on faith.

In truth, this installment feels more like a set-up for the remainder of Volume 2 - a way of getting into the proper headspace and reacquainting with Johnny and his friends and family - than it does a fully separate "chapter."  Indeed, it sounds as if this is gearing up for some BIG plot in the coming Chapters.

Now, some who've followed the print version of "Clarity" may be set ill-at-ease by the sudden departure from more light-hearted fare, but this has never been a series to delve into light-weight shmaltz as much as it's been a pleasant read that wasn't afraid to dip its toes in realism above and beyond nostalgia, which is a great deal of its charm for me.

It may run you through the wringer, but that's because you end up caring about these characters.  You want Johnny to be ok, you want life to be idyllic, and you want to see a happy ending.  In an age of jaded cynicism, tragic comedies galore, and the prerequisite unpleasant twist, it's nice to have a title that reaches out to compassion and conscience.

Taken altogether, this is a pretty strong return for "A Moment of Clarity" in print form and would be well worth investing some time (and $$$) in.  I know I'm quite anxious to see what comes about in Chapter 2 myself.

Overall: 4 stars.

Alex Haas