REVIEW: 'Archie' #17 by Mark Waid, Joe Eisma, and Andre Szymanowicz

★★★★☆ (4/5)

Mark Waid, Joe Eisma, and Andre Szymanowicz give us an easy breezy issue of Archie #17 that feels like the classic Archie stories of olde. Cheryl Blossom is out for revenge after her dad's company is bought out by Veronica's father. She's forced to leave her posh boarding school and ends up back in Riverdale. Cheryl shows why she's probably one of the best villains in comics.

"The Seduction of Archie Andrews" isn't as sexy as its live-action counterpart on the CW on the darker, soapier 'Riverdale.' Nonetheless, Cheryl slowly begins to shower Archie with gifts anonymously to pique his interest before revealing herself. This is her play to seduce Veronica's "Greek god." Of course, when Archie is involved prepare for disaster. It's another story of hijinks and screwball comedy that's guaranteed to put a smile on your face. 

As for Veronica, she furiously tries to finish her exams at school, even coming across Mr. Collier, Betty's uncle who Mr. Lodge humiliated during a mayoral race, who bargains with her for a new suit as part of her project before she can leave school early. This was a nice touch by Waid to see Veronica committed to her schoolwork instead of skipping out simply because of her dad's influence. 

Joe Eisma and Andre Szymanowicz do some charming work with the action and colors. Eisma has fit in well as the new artist, giving his interpretation of the Riverdale gang. It's clean and sharp with plenty of classic touches complete with speed lines and slapstick barrel rolling. 

'Archie' #17 finds Cheryl in Riverdale trying to seduce Archie to get back at Veronica. It's a fun twisty romp full of melodrama and laughs. Waid and Eisma continue making Archie relevant in 2017 and worth every penny.