Okay, as a huge Harley Quinn and Poison Ivy fan, I’ve been waiting for this! DC has given us some amazing romances over the years – Superman and Lois, Wally and Linda, even the complicated Green Lantern and Star Sapphire. But honestly, where’s the big, epic love story for Harley and Ivy? They have such a unique connection, and I’m really hoping for a book that finally dives deep into all the highs, lows, and craziness of their relationship. It’s about time we got an honest look at their love story!
The new comic, Harley and Ivy: Life and Crimes #1, from writer and artist Erica Henderson (known for Jughead and The Unbeatable Squirrel Girl), finally puts Harley Quinn and Poison Ivy’s relationship front and center. While DC Comics has been developing their romance, it’s unusual to see a story where their connection is the main focus. This first issue delivers exactly what fans have been hoping for, exploring how Harley and Ivy’s relationship began in a story that’s delightful, humorous, and delightfully chaotic.
Rating: 4 out of 5
| PROS | CONS |
| Charming art style | Slightly slow start to story |
| Fantastic characterizations | Place in continuity feels confusing |
Harley and Ivy: Life and Crimes #1 is the Start of a Wild Romance
This comic promises to reveal the complete story of how Harley Quinn and Poison Ivy fell in love, but just how unusual is their connection? The story unfolds as a shared memory, told by Harley and Ivy themselves. After a quick look at some of their earlier encounters, the comic focuses on what they see as the event that really sparked their relationship. Poison Ivy is preparing a plan to take down Ace Chemicals, fighting to protect the environment, when a troubled Joker unexpectedly interferes.
Right when Ivy is about to blow up Ace Chemicals, Harley decides she’s finally had enough of the Joker and plans to leave him. But when Harley learns about Ivy’s plan, she loses it and a fight breaks out between them – not exactly the start of a love story! The battle damages the factory, and the commotion attracts the Joker. He immediately attacks Harley, especially since he recently got his face back after the events of the New 52. Seeing Harley hurt sparks a protective side in Ivy, and she rescues her future girlfriend, getting them both to safety.
This isn’t a typical, sweet meet-cute for a love story. While the story hints at a future romance between Harley and Ivy, their first encounter is actually quite difficult. Harley is still healing from past trauma, and Ivy is completely focused on her plants. However, even then, you can see the people they aspire to be – Harley’s kindness and Ivy’s hidden compassion. Author Henderson does a great job of showing the complexities of both characters right from the start.
Harley Quinn and Poison Ivy’s Romantic Origin Isn’t Perfect, But it’s Real
I don’t typically enjoy romance novels, but I do value genuine and truthful storytelling. What I particularly liked about this book is that the author, Henderson, doesn’t portray Ivy and Harley’s relationship as instantly perfect. She avoids the cliché of a magical first meeting, which feels more realistic – relationships naturally take time and work. Henderson clearly understands the complexities of love, and it’s this honest portrayal that makes the story stand out.
The artwork is also excellent. Henderson uses color and shading effectively during Harley and Ivy’s first meeting at Ace Chemicals, creating a feeling of discomfort that fits the awkwardness of the scene. When the Joker appears, Henderson’s depiction perfectly conveys how out of place and disruptive he is – almost like a harmful intrusion. Henderson takes some creative risks with the art, and for the most part, they really work.
The first issue of Harley and Ivy: Life and Crimes is a strong start to the series. It beautifully portrays the deep connection between Harley Quinn and Poison Ivy, while also realistically showing that their relationship isn’t without its flaws. It’s refreshing to see a love story acknowledge that romance can grow even when people aren’t perfect, and this modern take is exactly what DC Comics needs to do with this popular pairing.
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2025-11-05 16:10