Pulling together continuity and familiar faces from every vintage of Buffy - and we do mean every - A Note from the Underground takes on some big themes, but maybe doesn't quite do them justice.

With more old friends and enemies turning up than a Friends Reunited cheese and wine do, the main story sometimes gets a little lost. That's a pity, as there are some rousing moments in it, and the atmospheric artwork is especially good in the action scenes.

The finale, particularly, is weak and a bit soppy. Still, getting there is fun, and it's great to see Angel back in Sunnydale, with Faith no less. Then there's this story's mystery guest - perhaps someone who'll be a bit of a letdown for some, but a welcome blast from the past for others.

Overall, an enjoyable romp that really needed to be longer to properly deal with the issues it raises. As a sweet little extra, this volume also contains a cute two-page story by Andi Watson - well worth a look.