This story picks up right where Fantastic Four #38 left off, with the depowered Fantastic Four being rescued by the U.S. Navy. After a brief recap to remind readers of their recent loss, we see how our heroes are coping with being powerless as they are transported back to the United States. The team doesn’t take their loss of powers lightly, though their motivation leans heavily toward revenge—or, more precisely, defending themselves from any potential threats now that they are “normal.”

Reed Richards, of course, takes the lead, determined to think his way out of the problem. He begins developing inventive suits for Sue and Johnny Storm, and himself, while crafting a “Thing” robot for Ben Grimm to control. Yet, despite Reed’s brilliance, these solutions fall short in their initial tests.

Meanwhile, Doctor Doom makes his return, fueled by the events of Fantastic Four Annual #2, where he was tricked and humiliated. Doom is now out for blood and seeks revenge—he wants the Fantastic Four dead.

Conveniently (or perhaps fatefully), Doom’s attack coincides with the arrival of the Fantastic Four’s lawyer, Matt Murdock. Unbeknownst to the team, Matt is also the masked hero Daredevil. Matt’s visit comes with grim news: legal discussions about preserving the team’s legacy in the event of their deaths. But Matt’s heightened senses quickly alert him to something being deeply wrong with the hero’s and their powers, even before Doom strikes.

Amid the chaos, Matt slips away to don his Daredevil costume, aiding the powerless Fantastic Four as they face an ongoing assault. Doom weaponizes Reed’s own inventions against the team, forcing our heroes—alongside Daredevil—to fight their way back to the Baxter Building. The issue concludes with a tense buildup as they near their headquarters.

Originality & Continuity

This issue reaps the benefits of the continuity set up in Daredevil #2, where the Fantastic Four hired Matt Murdock as their lawyer. Seeing Daredevil appear here—and take center stage as the story builds—feels earned and organic. This issue also highlights the strength and courage of our heroes. Even without their powers, they charge into battle, knowing the odds are firmly stacked against them.

Artwork

While Reed Richards and Daredevil takes the spotlight in this issue, the artwork truly shines, particularly in the quieter, emotional moments. Look closely at the scene aboard the submarine during their meal: the weight of loss is etched into the characters’ faces, wordlessly conveying their despair. This level of visual storytelling continues throughout the issue, from their failed attempts at “pseudo powers” to the desperate action sequences that follow. The art captures both the personal and the perilous with equal skill.

Characters & Development

The loss of their powers just a couple of issues ago was a pivotal moment for the team, but here, we get to see the fallout more intimately. The Fantastic Four’s determination to push forward—despite their physical limitations—offers a compelling look at their resilience and heroism. This issue also sets up further developments I’ll address more thoroughly in my review of Fantastic Four #40.

Story

The plot itself is simple but effective: the powerless heroes are saved, only to face a greater threat immediately after. What makes it work is how naturally it flows, building on past continuity while intertwining the arcs of Doctor Doom and Daredevil. Both new and familiar connections feel significant, and the stakes are deeply personal for the Fantastic Four.

Fantastic Four #39 delivers an engaging mix of emotional weight, inventive problem-solving, and high-stakes action. With Doctor Doom back on the warpath and Daredevil stepping up as an ally, this issue balances its quieter moments with escalating tension. It sets the stage for even bigger confrontations to come.