Dave MacPhail Comic Reviews

We all know that the creative team of Action Comics are capable of creating an excellent story, so perhaps my negativity on this issue is due to how much of a high standard I have started to hold the series to. As an origin though, this is a fantastic place for a new reader (even one who has never read a Superman comic before) to jump on. I would even say a new reader could add an extra point to my rating as this literally gives the reader a full run down on Superman, saving spoiler filled trips to Wikipedia. For the rest of us though this is one we may have to play by ear, and the next issue will ironically fully reveal what value this one has to the story as a whole.

My hope last issue was for a bigger pay off to the Villain story running concurrent with Clarks past, and we do see some of this touched on here in the final few panels. It is unlikely to surprise anyone who is a veteran of the series but it will still leave a lot of us grinning as we wait for next months issue. As mentioned above, this issue and the one before serve as an excellent introduction to the current Superman continuity and if you are new or just curious about what elements have stuck from previous incarnations then this is definitely something you wont want to miss.

One of the biggest complaints with the New 52 was that the whole thing felt too strict with events and it really stopped creators from telling the stories they really wanted to. Thankfully this is not the case these days, and this exciting arc, though slow to start, is looking like it could be one of the biggest adventures the Man of Steel has had in recent memory.

Though not ideal for a new reader there is enough explanation and some exposition here - thanks to Cyborg Superman to ensure that most readers will pick up exactly what is going on. A thoroughly compelling read this week which I have no trouble recommending to new and existing readers alike.

Its great to see both Superman books being so well presented and really making the Man of Steel relevant again. An easy recommendation for those looking for a series that lives up to its name, as Action Comics is a great way to describe the story contained within these pages.

This issue is perfect for readers of all ages, regardless of their level familiarity with the series. The story is new and everything is explained as it unfolds. I do wonder at what is in store next issue, will there be a sudden twist to the events unfolding or will the promised battle take place? Im excited to see just what Williams and his team have instore and Id recommend this to anyone looking to break into the DCU given the stellar track record of the series so far.

This issue wraps up a short but enjoyable tale of classic rivalries married with suspense and a larger mystery that has been encompassing the DCU since its Rebirth. It is friendly to new readers but I would strongly suggest anyone reading this just pick issue 985 before this one as it does add something to the tale. The book is well-paced and if it was intended to be filler it is definitely one of the most enjoyable fillers in recent memory.

As the beginning of a new tale and one that is likely to reshape much of what we know of the Man of Steel, this is most definitely new reader and veteran reader friendly. The story is well told and a stunning art direction helps to add an extra dimension to an already great book. So far the story has proven to be every bit as important to the DCU as it claimed back when it was first announced, and I for one am truly excited to see what happens next. It is not often something so fundamental to a heros core is touched on like this and what follows could lead to a full deconstruction of everything we once knew to be fact. The wait for the next issue is going to feel like an eternity

Action Comics has been pretty damn good for a while now and the current arc is an entertaining one with a much more comedic feel to it which, to be honest, is something DC really needs. The themes being explored are still dramatic and potentially world-ending, but it all seems so much lighter than some of the previous stories that it ends up still feeling fresh. I would personally like to see Booster Gold stick around after this plot resolves, but only if they can find a team willing to keep him fun without turning him back into a joke character.

The next issue is issue 1000 and I would be shocked if it wasnt a bombastic adventure featuring over the top action and crazy fight sequences. With that in mind, its probably a good thing to have an issue like this every now and then that focuses on the other parts of the Kents lives. We do sometimes need that reminder that Superman is Clark Kents alter ego and not the other way around. We know the peace wont last for long but I personally enjoyed the opportunity to spend some time with the Kents in a (relatively) normal situation.

This issue is a little less action packed than previous chapters, but it doing a stellar job of adding lore and developing the world around Clark in truly a fascinating way. The creative team are working well at giving us a balanced view of Metropolis and the issue certainly benefits from the return of the super talented Patrick Gleason. Its still too soon to predict just how this tale will unravel but with Bendis at the helm we can be sure itll be an interesting ride.

With all that said this is one of the most exciting stories to in the DC line up right now and I cant wait to see how the next issue of The Flash continues the events started here. This issue alone is action packed and drops a few breadcrumbs, hinting at something much larger on the horizon. We are already witnessed first-hand the machinations of the mysterious Mr Oz and I can't help but speculate about at his involvement in these events. Needless to say, I am on board for the duration and eagerly await the second part of this tale to unfold.

Despite this being part two of an ongoing arc, I do feel that there is enough in the writing to help new readers catch up almost immediately. It would be helpful to know why the Joker and Riddler are at each others throats but in the end, it isnt as important as the fact that they are. I will be very interested to see how this all pans out and just what horrors await those who are caught in the crossfire between two of Gothams most dangerous residents.

This is a strong contender for my favourite DC book this year and definitely gave me pause after I read the final panel. To be clear, this book isnt really about the final page but how we arrive at that point. King has proven time and again that he can write a fantastic Batman book, but even I wasnt expecting this.

I would caution new readers at this point - the book is perfectly readable, but without context the events wont have nearly as much impact. Of course, picking up the last two issues will certainly help with that, an approach Id highly recommend. For the rest of us, the tale does feel like it is slowly coming to an end, but save for the spectacular combat sequences mid-way through the issue, the story really doesnt move forward too much here. It certainly feels like we are setting the scene before the big finale and I absolutely cant wait to see how this one pans out.

A well told and truly dark Batman tale that will have lasting consequence to his world in the long run. It is an uncomfortable setting for fans of the Bat but the ending of the story humanises him in ways that many other writers struggle with. Definitely a book worth your time and a place in your pull list this month.

Ultimately, Batman is an intelligent and fun book to read. The one-liners flow as fast as the action and it all works because King and co. are happy to take chances with the lore. Not everyone will be thrilled with recent events but those willing to give it a try will find an entertaining book that rewards long-time readers.

Batman remains a smart choice for anyone looking to strike a balance between the Dark Knight of the old DCU and the more modern stuff. The book continues to justify Batmans very existence while showing us his struggle and allowing us to really see what makes him the most suitable hero for Gotham City. The series always comes with a high recommendation but this tale in particular is one of the best reasons to be reading the series to date.

In the end this is a well-written and visually stunning issue which provides an exciting twist on an old formula. My only complaint is that the seemingly hopeless situation Booster Gold is left in at the end of the issue has already been spoiled by the solicitation but that is not something we can hold the creative team accountable for.

King and his creative team have proven time and again that we can have smaller stories in between larger arcs without them feeling like filler. These stories, though shorter in scope, are some of the most interesting takes on the Dark Knights mythos to date and help dissect characters and events rarely touched on. If you are not already picking this book up you really need to start, as Batman remains one of the best DC titles on sale today.

This issue is a great first issue for a new reader or an excellent new arc for existing readers - everything you need to know is explained by the Joker as part of his colourful monologue. The team once again utilise a unique visual style coupled with a strong narrative giving us one of the most exciting books on the shelves today. This really needs to be in your pull list and as close to the top as possible. Avoid spoilers and consume this at your earliest opportunity, you will not regret it!

This is a book that rarely disappoints, continuing to shine a much-needed light on Gotham and its inhabitants, both good and evil.

Tom King and his rotating creative team continue to delight and entrance with yet another deconstruction of the world's greatest detective and his methods of apprehending his foes. We are shown a slightly out of control Batman who could be making the wrong decisions and we really get to feel Bruce's struggle against himself. King is taking great pleasure in exploring the methods of the Bat as well as public opinion of Gothams shadowy hero and I cant wait until the next issue to see how this story unfolds.

This issue is an easy recommendation for those invested in Batman and readers who want to see how far he has come as a character. It is about as perfect a story as anything you will ever read and its not just because of Batman, but also his supporting cast and how they are affected when he is going through emotional turmoil. This is easily one of the best books on the shelves today and this issue is one of the finest to date.

I cant recommend this series enough right now. I have no idea how the events of this issue will impact the status quo of the other Bat family books but it would feel strange for it not to touch every single one of them in some way. By now many of you will already know what I am talking about thanks to spoilers being dropped by a few news sites, but for those who have managed to avoid them to this point, prepare to be heartbroken!

There's nothing artificial about the intelligence it took to create this. It's impossible not to sympathise with and like D4VE because of how human he is. Good, solid writing and nice colour blending artwork produce a great arc.

This has been a great book since Rebirth began and it continues to be one of the strongest titles in DCs lineup. For new readers however, it's worth noting that a lot of the story that has been embedded so far is going to be hard to follow, so Id recommend reading from issue 950 onwards as this is pretty near the end of the current story. There's no reason someone who was reading before and drifted away couldnt pick this up, but new readers should beware, as a brand new story is likely to begin soon.

Detective Comics continues to be a fantastic team book and isnt afraid to put the spotlight on its cast of characters who never feel second rate, even when compared to Batman himself. Definitely a series fans of Batman should be reading, but this is equally accessible to those still cutting their teeth on the post-Rebirth continuity.

The creative team continue to deliver a high-quality series with fantastic art and deep character development, so its a very easy recommendation to add this one to your pull list. The series isnt content with just telling you an interesting story, it wants you to invest emotionally in both the characters and their motivations, and excels at both.

Thanks to a smartly written intro this latest issue is easy to pick up regardless of your knowledge of the current Batman continuity. Everything is explained over the course of the issue and we even get a nice flashback to remind us of just why this chain of events is even occurring. The creative team really do have an understanding of the city of Gotham and its inhabitants, whether they be heroes or villains, and itll be interesting to see just how events play out now that we know a certain key character is on the cusp of returning.

In conclusion, this book continues to be an interesting and slightly more personal look at those who work with and support Batman. New readers would be best served going back a few issues to get the most out of the story as there are quite a few pieces in play. The final panel is an interesting one and something that will likely play out during the next issue. I am also keen to see how the return of Tim Drake will effect events moving forward.

Detective Comics really is one of the best books DC is putting out right now. The cast is interesting and their adventures exciting. The narrative is gripping and always evolving as Tynion plants his seeds for later events throughout. The art supports the writing by creating some of the most impressive visuals with a macabre aesthetic that really only could exist in a Bat family book. The series continues to be a visually stunning and expertly written book that is always at the top of my reading pile every fortnight.

Detective Comics continues to be one of the best books DC is putting out there and this is in no small part due to the time and dedication to the writing that Tynion brings. All of the characters are fleshed out and their motivations are laid bare for us all to see, and it really brings the reader on bored and gives them reason to care about the events as they unfold. As always this continues to be at the top of my pile each month and I am excited to see what happens next.

Detective Comics is a book that fully earns its right to exist alongside the other heavy-hitters of the DCU. Tynion and his team have created the Batman equivalent of the Justice League with each member a formidable force and each of them fleshed out and established to the point where the reader really buys in to them. I look forward to seeing how much more darkness can infest our team before the end finally arrives.

The series has been hurtling towards this point for some time but it will be interesting in the aftermath to see if Batman and his allies can ever fully recover from this event. Tynion and his creative team continue to raise the stakes on a fortnightly basis, and really help to sell us on the urgency of this particular threat and what it could mean to the DCU if our heroes fail.

The story is nearing its conclusion and knowing both the creative team and the antagonist there is likely to be fireworks before alls said and done. It will be very interesting to see how the end of this tale effects the relationships of what was once an unbreakable team and their ability to stay together. The series continues to be an intense and thrilling high stakes adventure that will keep readers on the edge of their seats.

James Tynion IV may be departing the book now but he has left behind a legacy that he can be proud of. He has also left some very big shoes to fill and I hope the next writer is up to the challenge. The series has been a consistent highlight in DCs comic book line and a masterclass on how to write a team book, and this issue is a fitting end to the current story and a heartfelt farewell from the talented creative team that made it a reality.

The story here is simple and enjoyable enough, but seems to give Batman a somewhat inconsistent mental state that does not gel with the version of him we have had up until now. It will be interesting to see if the series will return to a solo book or continue the team-based adventure we had before.

This is a great first issue and it already feels like this new creative team are particularly comfortable with Batman and his extended cast. The dialogue is consistent with how we know the characters to be and the art is exemplary on all levels. There are a lot of unknowns at this point, and that is almost always how a good story starts. It is refreshing to see a brand new team really understand the cast and characters of a book so quickly, and my expectations are now incredibly high for the next issue.

There is some great pay-off in this issue. We finally get to see Black Lightning take some decisive action and the battle between Batman and Karma has shown this new enemy that he will need more than some fancy tech to outsmart the Bat. The Bat Family is in ruins right now but things aren't quite unsalvageable yet. It will take time for the bonds to be re-forged and for the team to begin working as one unit again and I cant wait for the eventual rebirth to finally happen. Hill and co. are doing a great job at picking up what Tynion started and putting their own stamp on it, and I am definitely looking forward to the adventures ahead.

Detective Comics continues to deliver an excellent read and as one story feeds into the next it's difficult not to feel a genuine connection between the characters and the events that are unfolding. This issue is perhaps not ideal for new readers but it does chronicle the rise of a new (legacy) team that will be truly interesting to watch as they develop. An easy recommendation this month, if you are not reading Detective Comics yet then it may be about time you considered picking it up.

Ernie continues to slice and dice his way through Lady Hel's lovers in this gorgeous and disturbing tale of blood and fire!

Even if you are not already reading the Flash right now but have perhaps been enjoying the TV show or the character in other media, I highly recommend checking this issue out. It's sometimes frightening, often brutal but always well worth the read.

First time readers shouldnt have any problems picking this up thanks to a quick recap at the start of the book, but obviously those who have been reading for a long time will get more from it. Whether you are a veteran of the series, someone who has only watched the TV Show or a completely new reader, this comes highly recommended.

The most realistic and most gripping G.I. Joe story I've read in many a moon.

Just about holds onto your attention but missing that vital spark

Though not a huge fan of the movie, I have found myself enjoying this series immensely and wouldn't be averse to seeing the team continue to show up in the IDW universe. For the time being though what we have here is a well written, lovingly illustrated and just incredibly fun book that fans of the Ghostbusters (any of the variations) should consider picking up.

As the curtain falls on another IDW Ghostbusters series we get to finally see what would have happend if the last Ghostbusters movie had been written by a decent creative team.

Once again IDW prove that they can take the Ghostbusters name and really push it to be more than the sum of its parts. After Ghostbusters 101, it was clear to me that the 2016 Ghostbusters characters could actually be written well and free of Hollywood and fan expectations could actually provide excellent stories. Thompson and her creative team have hit the ground running and really helped flesh out the characters and the world they live in, we are seeing their value unencumbered and unrestricted and it really is a marvel.

The Ghostbusters continue to push themselves in an effort to find a way to overcome fear itself, a shared moment in time could provide the answers they are searching for but with everything on the line the cost may be their own sanity! Once more we are delivered an exciting twist on the comedy/horror genre thanks to an excellent creative team who understand this new generation of Ghostbusters and what makes them so uniquely entertaining.

The Real Ghostbusters meet the movie Ghostbusters and chaos ensues! An incredible nostalgia trip that was created for all the children of the 80s

This series is everything a fan of the Ghostbusters franchise could want and more! Forget about the upcoming movie, this is the true follow up the franchise deserves!

The story continues and just keeps getting more interesting by the second, double the Ghostbusters really does mean double the fun!

In what has been one of the most compelling crossovers to date we have lived the lives of two very different team of Ghostbusters as they take on a God! They say too many cooks spoil the broth but thankfully the same cant be said for too many Ghostbusters!

Jackson's journey into the paranormal continues to get more interesting and the stakes continue to get higher.

Jackson and his team continue to unravel the mystery surrounding the sudden increase in supernatural activity. This continues to be the premiere title at Image for fans of the supernatural.

A summer blockbuster comes to news stands featuring Nazi created Dinosaurs, US made Super Soldiers and double agents! I'm already counting the days until issue #2 arrives. Now tell us what you thought of the first issue here...

This issue is a nice starting point for new readers and returning readers alike. Over the course of the two stories, we get a nice contrast between where Harley is now and who she used to be when she was still with Mr J, something I fully appreciate given the controversy about how she has been portrayed recently. All too often we are only really shown the sexual or comical side of her character, but Harley is so much more than that, and her endless optimism and inherent need to help fix people are shown in generous detail here. Featuring the best of her current persona and an extended glimpse into her past, this is an excellent issue that is easy to recommend.

This series continues to be one of the most fun books available today, and one that wholeheartedly embraces the chaotic nature of its main character without making her feel un-relatable or unlikable. There is an innocence to Harley which, coupled with a strong sense of justice, makes her series a must-read for those looking for some light-hearted fun.

Some of the situations presented in this issue will definitely have a few of us doubled over in laughter (I know I was) due to just how silly they are. Harley herself isnt played for laughs, the whole world she inhabits is, and that is exactly why it works and why everyone should be reading this. New readers might want to go back an issue or two or wait for the next one but for the rest of us, this is one of the best books on the shelves today.

Despite being part three of an ongoing arc it would be fairly easy for anyone who has some knowledge of this current incarnation of Harley to pick this up and get caught up. The writers do a good job of referencing past events to keep everyone up to date and Harley herself is such a random character that it rarely matters what has come before, just what happens next. If you already love Harley like the rest of us this will be an easy recommendation, however if you are totally new to her antics it might be better to jump back a few issues or wait for the next storyline to begin.

The book actually feels like more of a Lobo meets Harley story rather than the other way around which, feels a little bizarre when you consider the writers. The humour is crass and filled with sexual innuendo and over the top gore and dismemberment, and on that level, it appeals to me just fine. On the other hand, the story is fairly non-existent and with the characters each having personalities that are a little too big to coexist in a single issue, it can feel exhausting reading all of their dialogue. Its a fun book but not a great book, and as much as I enjoyed it I cant objectively recommend it, but by now you will hopefully have a better idea whether its something you would like to read or not.

In the end, issue eight is a solid entry in the continuing adventures of John Constantine, and I am both intrigued and excited to see how this whole thing pans out. The character has taken a bit of a bashing since its transition from Vertigo to DC, but of the most recent incarnations this latest series does feel a lot more like the Constantine of old. I can't help but feel a renewed sense of optimism about both the writing and the visuals that has been absent for many years. I feel that the current creative team are doing a good job so far and this issue is easy to recommend to a fan of the series but perhaps not so much to new readers who would do better to start from the beginning.

All in all I really enjoyed the book myself and could not be more excited to see a truer representation of John Constantine return to the DCU in his original stomping grounds no less. The writing is top notch and captures the character well, the art gives the book a visual edge that feeds into the tale itself and its ideal for veterans and new readers looking for a less than perfect hero. If you have any love for the series I highly recommend you pick this up before it sells out.

I would highly recommend at least reading Jupiter's first series before picking this up as it would be difficult for a new reader to understand the motivations and events that have lead to this moment in time. You could possibly read this issue stand alone and enjoy it as an action piece but I feel it does both the reader and the series a disservice and it is a tale that is much more interesting as a complete work.

A great start to what looks to be a promising horror story with just the right balance of suspense and gore.

This series is probably one of the most interesting of the My Little Pony Universe

Nailbiter continues to deliver a suspense filled tale that will both delight and terrify the reader.

In the end this is a fantastic book for both old and new readers and even as a standalone tale holds significant value in the continuity. Transformers comics are fast becoming the standard-bearer for quality art work and intelligent storytelling and this issue is no exception to that rule. There is so much more I would say but it would start to creep into spoiler territory, if you have a spot free in your pull list this week then this should definitely be a contender.

That said, Raven is definitely one of the most unique books DC is publishing at the moment and I couldnt be happier to see one of my favourite original Teen Titans come back so strong, particularly with one of her original creators on board for the ride.

With all that said, if you're already a fan of the Teen Titan you will probably want to check this out. Since the New 52/Convergence/Rebirth Raven does appear to have been de-powered a fair, bit but she is still smart and has a good grasp of what powers she does have. I still think Wolfman has an interesting ending in store, and I am excited to see what it is, its just unfortunate that the uneven storytelling and confusing plot is holding the series back.

Red Sonja continues to be a book full of engaging narritive and visceral action with gorgeous art and a wicked sense of humour!

A fascinating insight into who Shaft was before he became the coolest mutha ****** around!

Spawn rips and tears his way through Tokyo rendering judgement on humans and supernatural beings alike. This is as much a horror book as it is an action series so if you are looking for something a little darker this could be for you.

A slow but nice start to what should be an epic crossover

An excellent second issue which does much to generate the excitement missing from the first issue.

Billed as THE crossover event of the year and i'm starting to believe it! The crew of the Enterprise and the Lantern Corps shine far brighter together than they ever did apart!

Slower but more narritive driven issue which is still a lot of fun to read.

The worlds of Star Trek and Green Lantern clash in a multi coloured space epic that continues to move at Warp Speed!

Phasers and Lantern Rings make an explosive combination in the final issue of one of this years biggest crossovers!

It is easy to recommend this book for the straightforward storytelling and flat-out gorgeous art. The creative team clearly understand the characters they are working on and have managed to humanise Superman in a way that we havent seen in quite some time. If you are looking for an entry point or are a lapsed reader who is thinking of returning to the DCU via Superman, then this is an excellent jumping-on point.

Superman was and is once again one of DCs flagship titles and yet it refuses to rest on its laurels. This book is optimistic and sincere, and is exactly the direction Superman should always be moving in. The creative team have found a balance that eluded the New 52 without having to return the Man of Steel to a completely overpowered state. The threat hiding in the shadows is real, but so is the hope, and in the end, that is why the world needs Superman.

A fantastic issue once again this month, and one focused on a different and very underrated character who is finally getting her chance to shine. The series carries a gravitas now and feels like one of the most important books in the DC Universe. The final panel hints at the end of this arc and the reveal of who is responsible for the events unfolding in Hamilton, and I cant wait to see what comes next.

This issue is part of a new arc but it feels standalone. The events prior to this book are not really referenced so a new reader could easily jump in if they chose to. Unfortunately, given its seemingly disconnected state it also feels entirely missable and it really does feel that by simply skipping this issue you wouldnt have missed anything of any importance. While I do like the development between the two characters and the flashbacks to the old DCU, there really isnt much here to stop the reader feeling like this is anything more than filler material.

In the end, this isnt a bad issue, it just seems strangely disconnected from the rest of the series at the moment. While the story itself does tie in with Clarks personality and isnt specifically out of character, it isnt really a lot of fun to read and will likely leave a large chunk of this books non-American audience shrugging our shoulders with indifference.

This tale isnt a bad one and actually in some places provides a fun adventure, pitting two of the DCUs biggest names against each other. Gorgeous art direction helps to make the action all the more spectacular, and watching Superman have to battle not to give in to his aggression is always interesting. It will also be interesting to see what the final panel leads to, and just what new adventures will begin as a result.

It is very easy to recommend this book. The narrative flows swiftly but gives us everything we need to know, the art is sublime and compliments the story beautifully, and we get to see an honest to goodness three-dimensional representation of Lex Luthor! I am already excited to see just where this journey leads us and just how much of a strain it will put on our two Supermen.

It will be interesting to see how Lex plans to get out of his current predicament and just what will become of Jon in the next issue. Lois will likely continue to feature predominantly as she searches for her son knowing that Clark can handle himself, and its great to finally see the Kents working as part of a team rather than just followers of Superman. This is a fantastic tale that serves to further cement the connections between Clark and his family, although it may also serve to make Lex seem a little less heroic at the same time.

If you are dedicated enough to follow this story through its various titles then it is a thoroughly enjoyable issue with some satisfying action, but if you are only reading this series in an isolated fashion then it may be worth giving this one a miss and jumping back on board next issue.

Ill be sad to see the creative team leave this series at the conclusion of this story as they have been writing some of Supermans finest adventures to date. That said, this story is gearing up to be a memorable one and that makes it an easy recommendation to anyone who enjoys Superman and his extended cast.

I wont spoil the ending but I was left smiling and looking forward to the next issue which will conclude not only Gleason and Tomasis run but also the Bizarro-verse story arc. The team that pick up the series after their fantastic turn with the character will have extremely large boots to fill, as this run has been one of Supermans best to date.

This issue stands as a testament to the humanity of the single most powerful hero in the DCU and his infectious belief that things can always get better. It is a fitting end to a wonderful run that I would encourage everyone to pick up and read.

In this issue it really is easy to feel that, despite being the most powerful, the most alien and the most respected of the DC heroes he is also just a man protecting what is important to him, his family. The final few panels had me scratching my head a bit as a new mystery unfolds, but Im definitely looking forward to finding out just how this new situation occurred.

To present an adversary as a legitimate threat to Superman can be difficult and often relies on gimmicks, magic or a certain green stone from his home planet, but Bendis and his team have brought us a tangible danger that is likely to stretch him to his very limit. I am excited to see where this story goes and its all thanks to a creative team who truly understand the character.

If you are on a budget and only reading one series it can feel slightly unfair to be forced into reading this team-up book. On the other hand, the link between these books feels natural given the characters involved and their relationships with each other, and its good to feel that connective tissue manifest itself in such a dramatic way. The creative team take great pains to make everything feel authentic and present us with a fully connected and well written tale that will have lasting ramifications for all involved. Its no over exaggeration to say that the world of the Titans and the Teen Titans will never be the same again.

A great build up to what is likely to be the biggest event in the series so far!

The Turtles are showing no signs of slowing down anytime soon, the series continues to grow stronger with every issue that passes.

An excellent action packed issue which combines the Turtles with their allies, the Mighty Mutanimals.

A great stepping stone issue that serves to up the stakes and speed us along to the next part of the story!

An exciting bridge to the battle ahead!

Action packed issue you wont want to miss!

Wow...just read this okay?

The Turtles have always been well represented by IDW and this tradition continues 80 issues in.

The best of both worlds, two hero teams and two creative teams combine to create one of the most exciting stories of the year!

An excellent second issue which pairs the Ghostbusters up with the TMNT counterparts in a fun and interesting way.

This series continues to be the shining example of how to do a crossover properly!

The end of a truely wonderful story

An excellent return to form for the series

A great first issue that poses some interesting questions

The series continues to build momentum and continues the good work started in the first issue.

A light hearted Time Traveling Adventure with some great action and gorgeous art!

The final part to Turtles in Time rounds off the story nicely

For new readers, this is a fine place to start. It is fairly easy to pick up what is going on and assuming they have any kind of familiarity with Karai (she has appeared in so much of the TMNT franchise.) But, there shouldn't be any issues in getting caught up. Those following the main line series as well as the Universe book will obviously get more from it and understand some of the glossed over finer points in the background of the issue. An easy recommendation for anyone already with an interest in the wider world of the Turtles. Plus, existing readers can add an extra star to the score.

This twisted tale of dark intent skates a thin line between horror and the descent into madness! I am looking forward to taking this trip with Amelia no matter where it leads us..

Amelia's fall into darkness continues as we watch her embrace that which she should fear! An excellent second issue that raises as many questions as it answers and quickens the pace in an already exhilarating tale

Supermans newest series is guaranteed to be a hit for longtime fans and newcomers alike, taking what we know from his other appearances and builds on it. The book is ideal for new readers due to some clever writing, but it wont frustrate older readers either. The series is off to a great start and given its weekly schedule means that we wont have to wait too long for the next instalment!

Supermans newest venture continues to move forward adding urgency and intrigue as it trucks along. This is likely to be an important addition to Superman and Kryptons back story and I am looking forward to seeing just how much of the current status quo changes as a result. Any fan of Superman should have this title on their weekly list already, as its shaping up to become the one book comic book fans everywhere will be talking about for a long time to come.

Whether Zaar is evil for evils sake or has some genuine reason for his actions, one thing is sure, the battle that is about to unfold is going to be epic! This series is one you really dont want to miss. Bendis really understands the characters he is writing and knows exactly how to make Superman relatable and sympathetic. Action and epic battles may be on the horizon but it is the characterisation of the cast that ultimately sets the series apart from the other superhero books on the shelves right now.

The Man of Steel has been an excellent title so far with a fast-paced story, some nice twists on the Superman mythos and, of course, the genuine threat Clarks new adversary presents. Save for a few minor blemishes in some random panels I have no problem recommending this series to Superman fans both old and new.

The Man of Steel has been an exciting and fun book to read with plenty of action, suspense and some surprise reveals. Bendis has really proven his love for Superman, taking the best stuff from the Rebirth Action Comics and Superman books and adding to the established mythos in a meaningful way. This series has shown the humanity and love for his family that keeps Superman grounded and relatable, and that's exactly why the super powered Boy Scout continues to endure. This may be the end of this miniseries but Im willing to bet Bendis is not done yet and I couldnt be more excited to see what comes next.

Issue 17 is not the best Maxx issue you will read, it mainly contains exposition for what is to come in Julie's version of the outback and even as someone who understands what is going on it is presented in a rather confusing manner. While the writing is not the best in the series, the panelling is just stunning and inventive. Almost every page has strangely placed and shaped panels, drawing your eye to exactly where Kieth wants them to be. I could gush about his art all day but I will cut to the chase and say that if you are planning on picking up an issue to catch up on what is happening right now then I would suggest you are not going to find that with the Maxx and especially not here. You really need to start from issue 1 and that I do recommend, highly.

A great ending to both the current arc and the ongoing series in general. It is sad to see the series end but it has gone out on a high note!

An enjoyable read with some fine detailed artwork

A Ninja Transformer slicing his way to justice, i cant think of a more perfect union.

An excellent second issue, Drift Empire of Stone is showing no signs of slowing down!

An excellent middle part to the tale

A good end to an amazing story

New readers, old readers, folks who have never before picked up a Transformers book or even considered it, pick this up and give it the chance it deserves. It is one of the most forward thinking and progressive series you are likely to ever read and much of what is tackled in these pages can be applied to our lives and current or past events of importance. Despite that it is not preachy nor overbearing, it shows a creative team that truly love bringing these characters to life for us allowing us to maybe learn a thing or two about ourselves and have a laugh along the way. This is by far the easiest recommendation I have made this month.

I honestly feel like this series continues to get better the longer it runs, and it rewards patient readers with some of the best payoff moments in todays media. Roberts can drop a seed of an idea in one issue and not feel the need to re-visit it for hundreds of pages! It is for that reason that I would still recommend any new readers pick up the first issue of this current series before attempting to read this one. Its not impossible to catch on at this stage but I feel the longer you have been reading, the better and more meaningful the story becomes.

As I have said in previous reviews, this book is for everyone, new readers, old readers, even people that don't think they like Transformers. It is one of the most compelling and important books on newsstands every month and it is an easy recommendation.

An easy recommendation as always, Lost Light is disconnected enough from the other books in the series to be its own thing. But the series never forgets where it came from, even if it does believe it can be a little better. The cast of characters and the events they are involved in does require a deep investment by the reader. Yet doing so gives this series a much more personal attachment than any of the other Transformers titles on shelves today.

This series continues to be a high point for the Transformers Franchise and a triumph for IDW in general. If you are not already reading this its time you gave it a shot.

Transformers More than meets the eye is a much more mature entry to the series and a welcome one at that. The crew of the Lost Light are telling one of the most compelling stories ever to hit the Transformers Universe.

Excellent conclusion to the story that continues to deliver compelling characters and gorgeous art.

A good linker between two massive events leaving us all wondering what will happen next!

The main story thread is back in play and this issue proves why MTMTE is the premier Transformers book in the series.

Time travel and Transformers appears to be a match made in heaven!

An excellent chapter to the continuing adventures of the crew of the Lost Light

An Excellent ending to one of the best Transformer stories ever told!

Another hit for the MTME team that continues to prove why it is the most compelling book in the series!

Literally can't fault it, one of the most heart warming and well told stories this month and very easy on the eyes!

An excellent start to a new tale let down only by a slight deus ex machina

More than Meets the Eye continues to be the most interesting and consistently positive of the books in the series. Sometimes the book does wrestle with tone a little but I feel this issue and arc although not perfect, does represent the book as well as any before or after.

One of the funniest and yet emotionally resonant tales ever written within the Transformers universe!

The creative team once again paint the crew of the lost light with more humality and emotion that most humans, if you like your Transformers to feel a little more like living breathing beings then this is the series you want to be reading.

An excellent story featuring a brotherhood of unusual Decepticons but not essential to the main story.

The start of something new and exciting, its great to be back with the crew of the Lost Light!

The Lost Light has an unwelcome guest and it has the potential to rip the crew apart! This is one story no fan of the Transformers should miss!

More than meets the eye is the crown jewel of IDW's Transformers range and continues to build interesting characters with deep and personal themes. Every character is important, every thread written carefully and every detail significant coupled with gorgeous art, this is THE book to be reading this year.

This issue certainly feels like the calm before the storm and gives us a lot of information to digest before the next part of the story comes along. I would caution anyone who hasn't been keeping up with the series to pick up the last few issues so they can properly appreciate how we got here as I feel the sentiment left behind is far more personal and prominent if the reader has a real stake in the lives of the characters. This is an example of a creative team being given the time and trust by a publisher to fully realise a story and to make little to no compromises along the way.

This is a book that will have you punching the air in triumph one minute and picking up the pieces of your broken heart the next. This issue alone is a visually stunning and deeply personal book which presents us with a crew of Transforming robots that are more human than any one of us. The final panel in this issue made me both excited and furious at the same time and for all the right reasons. Everyone should be reading this series, I can't recommend it enough and regardless of the outcome of this great battle and which of my beloved crew make it out alive I will be there reading until the very end. I've said it many times, if you don't have this book on your pull list please consider doing so, it not only transcends its original franchise it transcends most of the other books on shelves anywhere.

This issue is a triumph in art and storytelling and brings yet another enthralling arc of MTMTE to an end. The final pages of this book really hammer home just how important the crew have become to each other and to us, the series is never one to veer away from dealing with difficult situations and its all the better for it. Despite being a book with some very high profile generation 1 and 2 Transformers prominently featured you never get the feeling that anyone is truly untouchable and in fact, if it made for an interesting story anyone could be taken from us at any moment. One thing that has been clear in this issue and in the issues prior is that the creative team understand their fictional crew and love creating them as much as we love reading them. If you haven't picked up an issue of the series yet and this review has gotten you interested I urge you to pick up the very next one and discover why this book continues to be at the top of my pile every month.

This particular tale is off to an excellent start but has the misfortune of being part of a larger event meaning that although anyone can pick this up and read it, much of the enjoyment from this issue will come from having read the other books in the event. Even taken on its own though, this issue has enough going on that that should the reader decide not to follow the whole event they will still find a lot to love here.

As an end to this series and the beginning of the next it is easy to recommend this issue to anyone who is interested in reading it, it features and incredibly talented creative team who excel in every aspect of their craft. This particular tale though only two issues long will have some repercussions when we finally catch up with the crew of the Lost Light next issue. Roberts rarely does anything that isn't in some way connected to the greater story he is trying to tell and it can often be years later before things come into play though given that Prowl is slinking around its unlikely he will stay quiet for long. As always this book regardless of how it is named, will remain at the top of my reading pile and I am excited to see what December holds and you should be too!

The final part of the Trilogy is off to a great start!

This is still my favourite of all the ongoing Transformer books, it is not new reader friendly however so if you haven't picked up issue 1 do that first. Its easy to recommend the book to Transformer fans and sci fi fans, with such a high quality comic hitting the stands every month we have never had it so good.

The action really takes off in this issue and all of the plot pieces begin to move into place

An excellent ending to an excellent story, required reading for fans of Transformers!

A rare example of a perfect story with a complete tale that starts and ends with a satisfactory conclusion. The art will astound your eyes as the narritve claws at your soul, recommended!

A solid issue that ties up several plot points neatly.

Good, heavily narrative driven issue with an emphasis of story telling over action

A good, solid retelling of some of Cyberton's hidden and mysterious past.

The book is off to a decent start but ultimately suffers from too much story and too few pages to set everything up. It is however a little to early to start panicking since this is just the first part of a much longer story. Given just how much of the story is brought in from previous issues I would not recommend this to a brand new reader however, however anyone with a good background knowledge of Transformers in general should be able to pick this up and enjoy it.

An action packed issue with plenty of high octane thrills!

Now that we can see the pieces fall into place it is much easier to just sit back and love this book for everything that it does correctly. Unlike the other books in the series, this does not focus on political issues or racism but instead, it concentrates on being a more personal piece. With pretty much everyone in this issue looking to kill everyone else and the question of forgiveness and vengeance being front and centre, this book has more than earned its place amongst the monthly ongoings. It is also worth remembering that as the main book in the series, the events in the last few pages will not only have lasting effects, they will penetrate the other books and other stories so definitely be reading this arc if you are reading any of the other Transformer books.

What is the cost of True power? It is a question often asked and one that is answered in these very pages

Excellent start to a brand new arc, cant wait to see what is next!

A good chapter in the bigger story that only suffers slightly from being a little text heavy.

The Combiner Wars continues to be an important and exciting event in the Transformers Universe

An excellent epilogue to the Combiner Wars which brings us a satisfying conclusion and an exciting preview of things to come

The world is changing in the world of the Transformers and it is getting harder to tell the heroes and villains apart!

A good narritive piece that sets up a few new plot points that are sure to become important later on

The story that has been cooking for two full arcs is just about ready and whichever way you look at it, its going to be one heck of an explosive reveal!

The story continues in what could be the beginnings of a new Great Cybertronian war as we lead from one revelation to another

An interesting trip around the world of the Transformers with an unexpected conclusion!

An excellent conclusion to an interesting arc that promises to further change what we understand about the Transformers

In the end it is still an enjoyable read and signals the end of this arc and the start of a new one, there is still an issue to go and we may well see a proper wrap up but for the time being this is a good but not great issue.

This is the final issue in this arc and it certainly goes out with a bang, the uneasy status quo looks set to change over the course of the next few issues and the world of the Transformers looks both a little better and a little worse for it. The series did feel like it was maybe a few issues longer than it should have been but the events in the last half of this book have completely made up for any short comings and leave us with a lot of questions about just what will happen next. It is exciting to see so many lost colonies now featuring so heavily in the book especially with the return of the cast from Beast wars, I await the start of the next issue with bated breath.

I digress though, the book is well written and Ramondelli's art lifts it to a level of dark beauty few other books will reach this month. This is not the issue to start with if you are a beginner and by its very nature of crossing over into every other book in the Revolution event, it runs the risk of alienating those with smaller budgets or no interest in the books that are merging with Transformers. It is however one of the biggest changes to happen to the Transformers series in a long time and that brings with it its own share of promise and problems.

An excellent first issue featuring action, adventure and a lot of explosions!

The book itself is considered and event and will likely bring about a change to the status quo that we have had since Starscream had himself elected to power, however even taken on its own merits the book is a fun tale of mystery and suspense. I suspect many of the answers that have eluded us since the Combiner Wars event are about to surface and im glad its due to happen in such a character driven book.

This is the book running in the background that is likely to have a large scale effect on all of the other connected books, it may not be the most action packed book but it is making it up in character development and world building. Windblade continues to become a larger player in the world of the Transformers and watching her match wits with the scheming Starscream is a joy to behold, I look forward to seeing how the story progresses.

The relationships between all of the main players in this story have shifted slightly and the effect is likely to bring about some very interesting plot points going forward. The book does follow directly on from the previous issue so readers should look to be caught up on the previous 3 issues if attempting to read this one. A great book with some serious art design that fully compliments the Transformers universe as a whole and adds weight and importance to characters that often don't get a lot of attention in the mainline series.

If you are looking for a book that deals with more than just big explosions and costumed heroes you might want to consider picking up this series. There are few books on sale today that can have you actively cheering for someone as despicable as Starscream while at the same time wishing someone would catch on to what hes up to.

This issue does a good job of explaining what has come before so it could be picked up by a new reader fairly easily. As always, though, long-time readers will get the most out of this issue. Both this book and Lost Light have gone beyond just being the best that IDW has to offer and are books I consider to be the best on the market in any genre. It pains me writing this to know that there are only two issues (12 and an annual) left to go before this series ends but I am glad it can go out on such a high note.

A well written and lovingly illustrated end to one of IDW's greatest series! This series may now be finished but the storied cast and stunning artwork will stay with us all for years to come.

Great story that enhances the events leading up to and out from the Robots in Disguise ongoing series

Windblade continues to deliver a unique and compelling tale with humour, action and emotion in equal balance.

An excellent series with a stellar cast, Windblade feels like a breath of fresh air in the Transformers universe and a welcome change of pace!

Windblade continues to prove her worth as a diplomat and a warrior as she makes the difficult choices whilst remaining true to herself. This is not your average Transforming Robot comic book, this is so much more!

An excellent second issue in the Combiner Wars story

An action packed issue sure to please fans of the Combiners!

A slightly disappointing finale to an otherwise excellent tale but not without its charm

A great start to Windblade's first real solo adventure

A Radical change of pace brings the book in line with other action/horror stories as we start a new arc.