MYSTERY SOCIETY #2

Steve Niles wrote the comic book 30 Days of Night. That means that he does have a knack for coming up with a cool idea. Is he a one-trick pony, though? He's mostly only dabbled in horror comics. This new series is lighter, funner, and feels a lot like The League of Extraordinary Gentlemen. The first issue was a knock-out; it was crisp and clean and absorbing. A cool dude sneaks into Area 51 to kidnap two black girls with mysterious powers. This new issue continues the quest, and a few assorted characters are added to the gang, namely Jules Verne. There's also something about finding Edgar Allan Poe's skull. And the government wants the black girls back at all costs. The premise is that a husband and wife are The Mystery Society, a group that uncovers mysterious artifacts, places, and people. The first issue was a great introduction. It was helped by the terrific art by Fiona Staples (her coloring, though, is a little too dull). This issue is more of the same and not as intriguing. Whether or not this will go in new directions or follow the same path is beyond me, but the premise is basic and fun and so far it's an entertaining, quirky book. **1/2