REVIEW: ‘Ms. Marvel: Beyond the Limit,’ Issue #3

Who is  Qarin? And how did she arrive on Earth-616? Kamala and her friends do their best to help the wayward polymorph, and she seems to be fitting in, but there’s something deeper behind Qarin’s appearance that Kamala may not yet be prepared for. Ms. Marvel: Beyond the Limit #3 is written by Samira Ahmed, with art by Andrés Genolet, colors by Tríona Farrell, cover art by Mashal Ahmed, variant cover by Jamie McKelvie, and letters by VC’s Joe Caramagna.

The appearance of this new character throws a wrench in Kamala’s life, already as she is dealing with the glitching of her powers. Ahmed does well to convey to the reader through her words and expressions that while Kamala is weary, she remains steadfast to doing the right thing, especially with the presence of her friends, and especially Nakia. It’s a thoughtful incorporation of Ms. Marvel’s best supporting characters on her continuing journey.

Even though the introduction of Qarin, who Ahmed is able to make a compelling character in one issue, might seem somewhat random, to begin with, her inclusion fits in with the storyline Ahmed has been telling so far. Qarin is an outwardly innocent character who still subtly pushes and stresses Kamala to her limits. The further mysteries of where the story will go are teased well, and I’m excited for where the story goes.

The art by Genolet is overall quite good, especially in conveying the mood that Kamala is feeling, but unfortunately suffers from rather unnecessary stiffness. This is, to be sure, a mostly conversation-heavy issue that doesn’t have much action, but I can’t help think Genelot could have done more to create a sense of movement in the more intimate scenes. But Genolet still does well to showcase characters’ emotions and moods. Farrell’s colors are excellent, and she particularly does well with Kamala’s and other characters’ skin tones and eye colors. Beyond The Limit always has Farrell’s colors popping strongly, making it a more engaging read.

Caramagna’s lettering as always is great, highlighting Ahmed’s words while working in tandem with the great art on the page. It makes for an overall smoother read.

Ms. Marvel: Beyond the Limit #3 is a compelling issue that continues to put Kamala Khan through the stressful wringer. Ahmed writes an intriguing mystery, Genelot’s art is solid and Farrell’s colors are rich and varied, and Caramagna as always has great lettering. It’s an intriguing mystery that’s unfolding for our young polymorph hero, and I can’t wait to see where it goes next.

Ms. Marvel: Beyond the Limit #3 is available now wherever comics are sold.