Graphic Novel Review - 'Harley & Ivy: Life & Crimes' by Erica Henderson, Hassan Otsmane-Elhaou (Letterer)

'Harley & Ivy: Life & Crimes' by Erica Henderson - what silly, goofy, cartoony LBGTQIA+ fun! That is also a lot deeper and more introspective than it appears.

It is a standalone Harley Quinn and Poison Ivy comic - there is no specific continuity connecting it to anything; at least, nothing fixed (Joker has his 'New 52 Detective Comics'/'Death of the Family' faceoff phase here, and Ivy's backstory has elements that might have been borrowed from G. Willow Wilson's comic run of her character). Anyone can read it, and get the gist of Harley and Ivy's relationship - from clown henchwoman/ecoterrorist fugitives, to fugitive lovers - without being too confused, or having to worry about reading any preexisting DC material.

The Life and Crimes of Harley and Ivy is pure, cheesy fun. Even including the sexytimes and running-from-the-law-in-complete-nudity scenes, where your mileage my vary on whether they are done tastefully or not. Henderson executes these in funny and creative ways, and along with Joker's appearance they are proof the comic is not for kids. I don't care for the sex, the nudity, and the final issue's ending tongue-kissing, but that's solely due to personal preference.

Gorgeous cover art, though.

Great artwork, great characters, both mains and one-offs (Abigail "Ma" Hunkel is a fantastic addition to the cast), and a funny and entertaining buddy comedy/LBGTQIA+ love story overall, Erica Henderson really outdid herself. She wrote, drew and coloured all of 'Harley & Ivy: Life & Crimes', and it is commendable.

Harley is Harley, and Ivy is Ivy, and as different as they are, they compliment and complete each other.

Once again, we as a comic book and pop culture media audience are reminded that Harley Quinn does not need Joker. She never needed him. That cycle of abuse is ended. It is never coming back into play ever again. Partly - well, mostly - thanks to Harley meeting the right woman, who is also her best friend.

Harleen Quinzel/Harley Quinn and Pamela Isley/Poison Ivy - doing crimes, destroying the shit out of shitty men via plant vines, and - though it doesn't need to be said nowadays, and certainly not in this comic - being gay/bi.

They are meant to be.

They are the ultimate OTP of DC Comics.

Other recommended Harlivy comics:


'Harley Quinn: The Animated Series, Vol. 1: The Eat. Bang! Kill. Tour'

'Harley Quinn, Vol. 1: Girl in a Crisis'

'The Strange Case of Harleen and Harley'


Final Score: 3.5/5