Azrael: Agent of the Bat #66 (2000), written by Dennis O’Neil with artwork by Roger Robinson and James Pascoe, continues the intense and thought-provoking saga of Jean-Paul Valley, the former Batman successor who now operates as Azrael. This issue delves deep into his internal struggles, his relentless pursuit of justice, and the heavy burden of his Order of St. Dumas legacy. As the series nears its conclusion, this instalment delivers gripping storytelling, moral dilemmas, and striking visuals, making it a must-read for Batman and Azrael fans alike.

In Azrael: Agent of the Bat #66, Jean-Paul Valley finds himself facing yet another crisis of faith as his fragile psyche continues to deteriorate. Haunted by visions and the weight of his past actions, Azrael is forced to confront his own mortality and the limits of his mission. As he struggles to maintain control, Gotham’s criminal underworld grows bolder, testing his resolve and pushing him closer to the edge. Meanwhile, allies like Oracle (Barbara Gordon) attempt to guide him back from self-destruction, but with his mind fracturing, the question remains—can Azrael truly be saved?

Dennis O’Neil, the legendary writer who helped redefine Batman and Azrael, delivers another emotionally charged narrative in this issue. His portrayal of Jean-Paul Valley captures the tragic complexity of a hero torn between his violent instincts and his desire for redemption. The psychological depth of the story is a hallmark of O’Neil’s writing, making Azrael one of the most layered and unique characters in the Batman mythos.

The artwork by Roger Robinson and James Pascoe enhances the dark, noir-inspired atmosphere of the series. Robinson’s sharp, detailed linework gives Azrael a menacing yet vulnerable presence, while Pascoe’s inking adds depth and shadow, reinforcing the gothic tone of Gotham City. The panel layouts are dynamic, especially in action sequences where Azrael’s brutal fighting style is on full display. The use of shadow and moody color palettes complements the psychological tension that permeates the issue.

One of the standout aspects of Azrael: Agent of the Bat #66 is its exploration of identity, faith, and the struggle between justice and vengeance. Unlike Batman, whose strict moral code keeps him grounded, Azrael is a hero constantly at war with himself. This issue exemplifies that conflict, making it a compelling read for those who enjoy character-driven storytelling with a darker edge.

Overall, Azrael: Agent of the Bat #66 is a powerful and haunting entry in the Azrael series. With stellar writing from Dennis O’Neil, atmospheric artwork by Roger Robinson and James Pascoe, and a gripping exploration of morality and madness, this issue is a hidden gem in DC Comics’ Batman universe. As the series approaches its conclusion, Azrael’s fate remains uncertain, but one thing is clear—his journey is as captivating as ever.