Under Franchini’s capable pen, the superheroics of Belle blend seamlessly with the horror of Gretel in Belle: Hearts & Minds. It’s a team-up comic that evokes classic superhero stories where a common foe brings two characters together, while also exploring character by highlighting the heroes’ different approaches to fighting the good fight. Belle is a “well; let’s see how this shakes out” style of fighter who battles with confidence, physical skill, and mercy. Belle wants to understand her opponents, as well as her teammates. Gretel and her companion Calabar, on the other hand, are tactical fighters who seek to, above all, eradicate the enemy, no ifs, and, or buts. Franchini’s script plays on these differences by pitting these heroes against a group of burgeoning witches, creating a story that’s thrilling, funny, action-packed, and fun.