Book Review – “House of El (Book Two): The Enemy Delusion”

Published by: DC Comics (January 4, 2022)

“House of El: The Enemy Delusion” is the second book in the three-part Young Adult series by author Claudia Gray and illustrator Eric Zawadzki.

Sera, a young soldier, and Zahn, a young scientist, are both dedicated citizens of Krypton and will do anything to improve their planet and fight for its citizens. However, as cracks in their world begin to emerge, Sera and Zahn are driven away from their destinies and toward each other – leading to a cataclysmic ending to all that they once held true.

Having learned of Krypton’s possible fate, Sera and Zahn find it increasingly difficult to continue with their everyday lives. Sera’s enhanced fighting skills may impress General Zod, but they seem to raise suspicions among her fellow soldiers. Zahn finds it equally challenging to maintain his studies and his friendships, as he carries both the knowledge of an underground rebel group’s plans and the experiments conducted by Jor-El and Lara. Jor-El himself attempts to alert the tribunes about the looming danger to the planet. When Sera and Zahn find out they have less time remaining than they thought, what will they do to try to save Krypton?

Once again, as with the first book, I am intrigued that this series is marketed as a Young Adult graphic novel series (grade level 7-9), as “House of El: The Enemy Delusion” reads much like any of the current comic books published by DC for older readers. The themes are intriguing and involved. The character growth in book two makes Zahn and Sera solid characters, who are both likeable and relatable. If Kal-El does end up being the Last Son of Krypton, as we expect, then I will be sad to see these new characters meet their ultimate fate.

Superman fans will become invested in these new characters, who feel as much a part of Krypton’s storied history as similar characters who came before them in the comics. Claudia Gray does a great job of making us care for them.

While the art in book one took some getting used to, Eric Zawadzki’s style grew on me in this second volume, and I found myself marvelling at the detailed city landscapes and structural designs.

While it appears we’ll have to wait a year to find out how the story concludes in Book Three, I know I’m already looking forward to seeing how this will all play out for Zahn and Sera.

“House of El: The Enemy Delusion” is available in Print, for the Kindle and iBooks, along with the first volume “House of El: Shadow Threat“.