David DeCorte Comic Reviews

20XX #2 has an interesting and complex story to tell. It could probably have used more space to tell it, though. As is, the book feels very wordy, with uneven pacing. Still, it's worth checking out.

ABSOLUTE CARNAGE: SYMBIOTE SPIDER-MAN is perhaps the most surprising entry in the ABSOLUTE CARNAGE event thus far. Dark in tone and packing a powerful emotional punch, this is definitely a must-read chapter.

ABSOLUTE CARNAGE: MILES MORALES #1 is a fast-paced and enthralling story. It doesn't really introduce any information you can't pick up in the main ABSOLUTE CARNAGE book, though, making it non-essential if you're just trying to keep up with the story.

Both stories presented in AERO #1 are engaging, though the book's first half is the standout chapter. Coupled with great artwork, it makes for a satisfying opening chapter to the new character's solo title.

Amazing Spider-Man: Full Circle is one of the most novel, creative, and interesting Marvel comics of 2019. In the words of Peter himself, "it was pretty convoluted," but we mean that in the best way possible.

ASTRO HUSTLE #1 is a fun, energetic tribute to classic space operas and the aesthetics of the late '70s. Writer Jai Nitz embraces the over-the-top concept, with eye-catching artwork as well. Highly recommended.

ASTRO HUSTLE #2 takes everything great about the debut issue and expands on it. We get a bit more backstory, without taking anything away from the action as we explore more of this fascinating and super-fun world. Definitely a book worth picking up.

BAD LUCK CHUCK #1 is an interesting start for this new series. The story is fast-paced...so much so that readers may have trouble keeping up. Despite some missteps, there's a lot more that works than that doesn't.

Batman #59 is an excellent new chapter in King's ongoing run. If you're not already reading this, you really should be.

BATMAN #61 can be a bit confusing if you're not already aware of the twist, but it's a good opener to the new story arc. It's an interesting take on what may be the most famous double-homicide in the history of the entertainment industry.

Following up on the success of their fantastic run on MISTER MIRACLE, Tom King and Mitch Gerads reunite for a creeping and unsettling story in BATMAN #62. This ain't your standard Bat-story (then again, what is these days?), but I'd say it's definitely worth the cover price.

We revisit the wedding that never happened, seeing how things would play out if that day had gone differently. Of course, something feels off despite the marital bliss, with Constantine providing a doom and gloom prophecy throughout.

BATMAN #64 begins a two-issue Batman/Flash crossover, tying in to Tom King's ongoing HEROES IN CRISIS limited series. It's a well done chapter, though the visuals can be a little overly-energetic for the nature of the story.

BATMAN #65 is enjoyable overall, with a compelling story for Gotham Girl and strong artwork from a technical standpoint. The narrative has its flaws, though, and the art can be a bit unfocused.

BATMAN #66 has some interesting ideas, but doesn't raise any questions we haven't seen discussed before in connection to Batman. It's enjoyable, but isn't really an essential, unless you're picking up every single issue.

BATMAN #67 offers an action-packed chase scene, with excellent artwork that may remind some readers of golden age aesthetics. Beyond that, it's basically just setup for a punchline on the last page. It's all filler in terms of storytelling.

Bruce is still caught in a nightmare in BATMAN #68. This time, he and Selina celebrate their bachelor and bachelorette parties, each in a very different manner. Without giving away spoilers, the issue takes us to some weird and uncomfortable territory (in a bad way), with characters who just don't seem to be themselves. It's probably best to skip this one.

BATMAN #69 seems to answer (at least for now) one of the core questions behind Tom King's run. While some of the story gets pushed into exposition towards the end, the issue is strong overall, getting readers back on track from a narrative perspective.

BATMAN #70 is a great chapter in King's larger narrative. We see Batman fight his way through Arkham, setting up for a showdown with Bane in upcoming issues. The storytelling is strong, and it's backed by excellent artwork. Highly recommended.

BATMAN #71 is moody and tense, suggesting that all Bruce has been put through might finally be causing him to crack. We're building suspense and picking up momentum as we move toward the big issue #75, so it's wise to follow these next few issues closely.

BATMAN #72 is primarily a recap issue. However, it recontextualizes the series thus far and builds hype and momentum leading into the climax of Tom King's run, making for more prescient reading than your standard recap.

Tom King said he wanted to change Batman for years, or possibly forever. If that's the case, he may achieve his goal. BATMAN #73 promises to remove that which makes Batman what he is. This decision will probably polarize fans, though I'm at least interested to see what King has in store.

Despite some narrative shortcomings, BATMAN #74 has a lot to pick through on a thematic level. It's more solid work from Tom King, with excellent artwork courtesy of Mikel Janin and Jordie Bellaire.

BATMAN #75 is a good opening to the arc. It sets an appropriately bleak tone for this point in the broader narrative with well-paced storytelling and excellent artwork.

BATMAN #76 is another great entry leading up to the final climax of King's run. It's tense, well-paced, and has an overwhelming sense of grim despair, which sets a great tone for what's coming next.

Writer Tom King promised the climax of his monumental story would change Batman "for a generation," or more. The last few pages of BATMAN #77 might just achieve that on its own.

BATMAN #78 is interesting and compelling on its own. It's placement within the larger narrative feels wrong, though, creating tone problems coming off our last issue.

BATMAN #79 cuts to the thematic core of Tom King's multi-year story. While still diverting from the main action, it lays out vital context and sets us up for the climactic showdown. It's an essential issue.

BATMAN #80 offers fun and action-packed writing, with gorgeous artwork courtesy of John Romita Jr. and Klaus Janson. The ending cliffhanger carries some troubling implications, but the rest of the book is stellar.

BATMAN #81 is compelling, though much of the actual story here is simple exposition; the Bat Family's "How I Did It" statement. The artwork is phenomenal, though, making for a visually-stunning work.

BATMAN #82 is a tense and captivating read. The book keeps readers guessing about who will come out on top right up until the last two pages, delivering another shocking ending, and all brought to life with fantastic artwork. Not to be missed.

BATMAN #83 is a meditative chapter, offering a touching sendoff for one of the most iconic members of the Bat Family. Well-paced storytelling, all backed by excellent artwork. This one is definitely worth adding to the collection.

In the penultimate issue of his run on the series, writer Tom King uses an extended series of flashbacks to lay out the tragedy of Thomas Wayne's life and his motivations. It points to the central question of his run: "can Batman be happy?" While not the most action-packed issue, BATMAN #84 is a fascinating character study.

With the setting and time changing every other page, BATMAN #85 has a rather jumbled presentation that detracts from the story's climax. There are, however, enough genuinely compelling moments to make the book work overall.

BATMAN: PENNYWORTH RIP may not be the definitive sendoff for Alfred that DC was hoping for. That said, it's entertaining and, at times, even touching. it's worth picking up if you're a Bat Family aficionado.

Batman: Damned #1 feels like the beginning of a much broader story. I'm at a loss as to how this can be satisfyingly wrapped-up in just two more issues, but as they say, I'm in for a penny (or $6.99, in this case).

BATMAN: DAMNED #2 is good overall. I do have issues, and worry that style might be taking precedent over substance by going over-the-top with the grim, edgy storytelling. However, the striking artwork alone would be strong enough to sell it.

There are some dropped threads and unnecessary elements at play, but BATMAN: DAMNED #3 is a satisfying conclusion to the series. It's the strongest from a narrative standpoint, with stellar artwork that would justify the price of the book on its own.

BATMAN: SECRET FILES #1 is a great collection of shorts for longtime Bat-fans, or anyone looking for a more deconstructive take on the character and superhero tropes. I recommend it.

Despite some storytelling hiccups, THE BATMAN'S GRAVE #1 is an engaging opening chapter. I, for one, am at least curious to see where the premise takes us.

BATMAN'S GRAVE #2 takes the elements that worked in the first issue and improves on most of them. While I still had some gripes with certain facets of the book, it's definitely a solid read.

BITTER ROOT #1 is a solid contender for best new comic of the year. Incredible characters and supernatural storytelling fill-out this poignant allegory of race in America, with beautiful art to illustrate the story. An amazing debut issue.

Black Panther #4 is a solid installment in the latest run for the character. The Intergalactic Empire of Wakanda works as a sci-fi space opera of epic scale and scope. Based on what I've seen so far, though, I'm worried it may not be as friendly to new readers as promised.

BOOKS OF MAGIC #1 sets up the story, but doesn't have much momentum until the last pages. It's a good start, and hopefully it keeps moving in that direction.

CALAMITY KATE #1 is a fun and energetic new series set in a world much like our own, but with monsters that terrorize society on a daily basis. The narrative and characters are engaging, with excellent artwork to bring the story to life. Definitely worth checking out.

The creative team behind CAPTAIN MARVEL #1 offers strong ink and color work throughout the issue. Storywise, the first half works well, but the second half starts to unravel into multiple story strands that feel unresolved and meandering by the book's end. I'll trust that there's a plan in mind, but breaking this up into two or three more fleshed-out issues might have benefited the work.

CLUE: CANDLESTICK #1 is a quirky, interesting take on the classic board game. Creator Dash Shaw hews close to the source material, while also laying out a unique vision for the story. While not perfect, this one is too intriguing a title to pass up.

CRYPT OF SHADOWS #1 pays homage to classic horror comics, giving us three stories in the classic vein, but with a modern veneer. It's a super-fun throwback comic for genre fans, but even if you're not a horror buff, there's plenty to enjoy.

DCEASED #6 is a gripping conclusion to an intensely captivating run. Fans of action and horror comics won't be let down by this emotionally-dynamic read.

DCEASED: A GOOD DAY TO DIE is a captivating and emotionally-resonant addition to the broader DCEASED story. An essential tie-in that's not to be missed.

DEATH'S HEAD #1 is a great beginning for Marvel's new miniseries. If you're in the mood for big guns and mile-a-minute action, you won't want to miss this one.

While not perfect, DEATH'S HEAD #4 wraps up the story nicely. All of the main characters have a complete arc and develop as complex figures. It's well-worth a read.

DETECTIVE COMICS ANNUAL #2 breaks from Tomasi's ongoing story to delve into one from many years earlier in Batman's career. It's well-paced, with witty and humorous dialogue. Worth picking up.

DETECTIVE COMICS #991 is less of an action story and more an exploration of the character of Two-Face. It cuts deep to who the character really is, while giving us a much-needed reprieve before the showdown between Batman and Kobra.

DETECTIVE COMICS #993 is a bit of a letdown as the climax to a relatively strong story arc. It's not bad, but it chooses to drop key plot elements as if they never mattered.

DETECTIVE COMICS #994 is a great way to kick-off Tomasi's run on the series. The story offers intriguing mystery in the first half, followed by a great action sequence, all beautifully illustrated and colored. Definitely pick this up.

Batman loses one person very dear to him in DETECTIVE COMICS #995, while another is nearly killed. Someone knows how to hurt Bruce Wayne, and it threatens to push him over the edge. This is a tense, mournful issue, ratcheting up the tension in the story.

DETECTIVE COMICS #996 is great overall. There are a couple of hiccups here and there, but they're minor flaws. What works here really works well.

DETECTIVE COMICS #997 is a very straightforward action story. It's in the vein of classic stories, with Batman caught in a deathtrap from which he must escape. Of course, if you're gonna be stuck in a trap like this, the original Mister Miracle is a good person to have in your corner. A great installment in Tomasi's ongoing run.

DETECTIVE COMICS #998 features some revelations, but two-thirds of the book is taken up by a story that, ultimately, doesn't factor in to the broader narrative much. It's fun, well-drawn and well-written overall, but doesn't feel as vital as previous chapters.

Detective Comics #999 was a fantastic way to close-out this era in the character's legacy. The book encapsulates the best of Batman's 80-year history, while setting us up for what comes next. Highly recommended.

DETECTIVE COMICS #1001 pick up from Tomasi's story in the milestone issue #1,000. The storytelling is suspenseful, aside from a little bit in the middle that doesn't seem to drive the narrative as much. Tomasi's last several issues on the series were strong, and it looks like we're in good hands for this new story, too.

DETECTIVE COMICS #1002 deepens an intriguing story, suggesting questions that can shake Batman's legitimacy to his core. The storytelling is sharp, the artwork is crisp, and readers are sure to come away from this issue eager for the next installment.

Though not as action-packed or consistent as our last issue, DETECTIVE COMICS #1003 is a respectable next chapter in Tomasi's ongoing story. We finally learn the Arkham Knight's identity, as well as the depths of her followers' loyalty, and get a taste for how wide her reach extends.

DETECTIVE COMICS #1004 is a masterclass in how to do exposition well. The storytelling is strong, adding pathos to the story. Of course, it's all backed up by excellent artwork, colors, and lettering. Highly recommended.

Although details of Astrid's plan leave a bit to be desired, DETECTIVE COMICS #1005 works overall. It's got action and tension propelling the narrative, with excellent artwork bringing it to life, so it's worth picking up.

DETECTIVE COMICS #1006 is a strong start for this new arc. It takes a darker tone and embraces more gore than in recent issues, but backs it up with a intriguing and engaging story and attractive artwork. I recommend it.

DETECTIVE COMICS #1007 is a bit of a letdown from the promise of our last issue. The stakes aren't really there, and the character designs have some kinks to work out.

The Joker is back in town in DETECTIVE COMICS #1008. It doesn't seem too significant in a broader narrative context, but it's a very enjoyable one-and-done story. Just a solid, classic, and simple episode.

DETECTIVE COMICS #1009 is a solid opening chapter to an intriguing new story. It's not terribly compelling on its own, but it promises much over the next few issues. I'd recommend it.

Does the idea of Batman lost in a WWII-era comic in the South Pacific entice you? If so, DETECTIVE COMICS #1010 is right up your alley. Engrossing storytelling and solid artwork combine to deliver an excellent chapter in Tomasi's story.

DETECTIVE COMICS #1012 isn't a bad chapter, but it's not the strongest in Peter J. Tomasi's run, either. The writing is mostly exposition, and the art by Doug Mahnke feels a bit jumbled and inconsistent. The story carries narrative momentum, though, so it's still worth checking out.

DETECTIVE COMICS #1013 is perhaps the darkest chapter yet in writer Peter J. Tomasi's run on the series. It's well-written, with solid artwork and brilliant coloring. Definitely worth picking up.

DETECTIVE COMICS #1014 is another quality chapter in the ongoing YEAR OF THE VILLAIN event. Solid storytelling, back by excellent artwork. It's worth checking out.

DETECTIVE COMICS #1015 offers an engaging and fun story. While there are some gaffs in nailing-down the characterization and character designs, it's still worth checking out.

While this story has been above-average overall, DETECTIVE COMICS #1016 offers a dynamic and emotionally-effective conclusion. Definitely worth the read.

Despite a potentially world-ending calamity unfolding, Bruce still has time to search for a lost boy in DETECTIVE COMICS #1017. This issue distills down some of the core components of Bruce Wayne's character: the unrelenting optimism and humanity that make him who he is.

DETECTIVE COMICS #1018 is a snappy, engaging mystery story. It's probably one of the high points of Tomasi's run on the series thus far. Definitely worth picking up.

DETECTIVE COMICS #1019 starts out strong. The story falls rather flat in its last third, though, with a rushed conclusion that leaves the reader less than satisfied.

DISNEY AFTERNOON GIANT #1 is a definite nostalgia trip for nineties kids. But, I could easily see younger readers who've never heard of the original TV block enjoying this book, too. The art and writing are both highly-reminiscent of the source material. I recommend it.

EXCELLENCE #1 introduces an interesting new world, along with engaging storytelling and universal themes. The artwork is stellar, helping bring this vibrant world to life. Highly recommended.

EXORSISTERS #1 is fine for a campy, supernatural detective sitcom. I'll check out the next issue, but the introduction didn't "wow" me.

FANTASTIC FOUR #4 is a much smaller story compared to the first three issues in the run. However, that's not a complaint. The smaller scale of the story gives readers a chance to process events, while still delivering on the series' most potent elements.

FEMALE FURIES #1 is engaging right from the first pages. The book confidently presents a feminist critique of sex and power dynamics, and delivers a great story in the process. Stellar artwork backs up the storytelling.

HAWKEYE: FREEFALL #1 is a respectable debut for this new title. While not every element lands, the writing and artwork are strong throughout. Fans of the character and new readers should find plenty to enjoy.

We get plenty of emotion, introspection, and character exploration in HEROES IN CRISIS #6, plus beautiful artwork courtesy of Mitch Gerads. That said, most of the issue is supplementary material to the core narrative, save for the last few pages.

THE HISTORY OF THE MARVEL UNIVERSE #1 is hard to judge as a singular narrative. It's primarily a survey course examining the entire history of the Marvel cosmology from the viewpoint of that universe's final moments. It's not a super-compelling read, but I highly recommend it for Marvel fans of any stripe for reference and research purposes.

Despite being a team-up book, Namor's narrative occupies the bulk of INVADERS #1. I appreciated the subtler points of the story more on the second read-through, such as the theme of war and how it affects Namor. This is a promising first chapter in a new ongoing story.

I highly recommend Journey Into Mystery: The Birth of Krakoa #1. It's great for fans of golden age action and horror titles, as well as anyone who wants to see The Sarge delve into the weird side in the run-up to Halloween.

JOURNEY INTO UNKNOWN WORLDS #1 continues Marvel's 80th anniversary celebration with two more stories celebrating the company's horror and sci-fi comic legacy. The stories are genuinely creepy, and super-fun. Definitely pick it up.

FRANKENSTEIN by Junji Ito is an excellent addition to any horror fan's collection. The work infuses the classic tale with a shot of the uncanny, while the other tales that fill the book are strong as well. Even after Halloween passes, it will still be a treat to dive into this book.

KILLMONGER #1 reads like the opening act of a classical tragedy. The book explores what is at the core of this character who is somewhere between villain and antihero, and what fatal flaws will ultimately lead to his downfall. Highly recommended.

I'd hesistate to say that Lightstep #1 is great, but it could be the beginning of a great series. I'm looking forward to seeing how it unfolds, and I recommend you check it out, too.

LITTLE BIRD #3 is an excellent, though bleak, chapter in Darcy Van Poelgeest's five-part story. If you're not already reading this, you're behind on one of the best new titles of 2019.

Skillful, solemn writing that hits the right emotional beats combines with dynamic artwork in LITTLE BIRD #4, perhaps the story's strongest chapter thus far. Simply awesome work.

LUCIFER #1 kicks off a dark story that is heavy on mood and tension, with excellent artwork to back it up. Highly recommended.

THE MAGNIFICENT MS. MARVEL #1 is a solid beginning for the new series. It has some hiccups, but readers can probably chalk those up to settling into the new story. Based on the talent behind the book, I have confidence in this new run for the character.

THE MAGNIFICENT MS. MARVEL #2 isn't terribly surprising. Most of what happens feels fairly telegraphed, as we already know where it's headed based on the first issue. However, it's a fun read, and it sets up the promise of an interesting adventure ahead.

MAN WITHOUT FEAR #1 is a great start to this new five-issue run. We're probing deep into what's at the core of Daredevil as a character what makes him tick, and whether he's truly the Man Without Fear.

MANOR BLACK #1 is a home run. Bunn and Hurtt's storytelling is sharp, and brought to vivid life by Crook's sublime artwork. Definitely worth checking out

MARTIAN MANHUNTER #2 takes what worked in the first issue, then expands on it. The Earth-bound parts of the story are more compelling, while flashbacks to J'onn's life on Mars are brilliant. Don't sleep on this series, as it may prove to be one of the year's best.

SPIDER-MAN: THE BLACK CAT STRIKES #1 takes an interesting approach, devoting much of this issue to an extended flashback. The creators manage to make it work, though, offering up a pleasing story with a hook to bring readers back for the next issue.

MEET THE SKRULLS #1 offers complex, understated storytelling and excellent artwork. The creative team of Thompson and Henrichon are incredibly in-sync here, delivering a surprisingly hard-hitting story.

MEET THE SKRULLS #2 adds more depth to the story, establishing this as a must-read new series from Marvel. The artwork and storytelling are on-point, perfectly complementing one another.

OLIVER #1 varies wildly from its source material, delivering an inventing and beautiful take on the original novel. The writing keeps you invested throughout, ratcheting up the tension with new mysteries and puzzle pieces, while the artwork, despite being a bleak, post-apocalyptic vision, is a visual treat. Add this one to the pull list.

The worldbuilding shines in OLIVER #2. Whitta hits the beats of the original novel, but provides plenty of original content to truly make it his own. With this new issue, Whitta makes it clear that he has a vision for the book.

OUTER DARKNESS #1 offers a loving tribute to genre tropes. However, the horror/sci-fi narrative is engaging on its own merits. There is plenty here for fans of STAR TREK or ALIEN, but even readers outside the genre fan base should still find a lot to love.

PUNK MAMBO #1 has a "Constantine-meets-Tank-Girl" vibe, blending supernatural detective elements with black humor and a punk sneer. It's a great start to the new series, providing an entertaining story and alluring artwork.

PUNK MAMBO #2 takes everything that worked in issue one and expands on it. The writing is strong, and is propelled by stellar artwork and lettering. Definitely recommended.

READ ONLY MEMORIES #1 begins a little slow, but picks up quickly with an intriguing premise and story, all brought to life with gorgeous artwork. Definitely add this one to the pull list.

READ ONLY MEMORIES #2 is a fantastic second chapter. It takes us to the midpoint of the story, introduces new elements, and draws the reader deeper into the mystery. Definitely worth picking up this Wednesday.

REAVER #1 is a respectable start to the new series. It has some shortcomings, namely a reliance on tropes and genre cliches. Hopefully in subsequent issues writer Justin Jordan can differentiate the book a bit from similar titles that came before.

REAVER #2 takes everything that worked in our debut issue and improves on it. The book sets a positive trajectory for this new series.

RED SONJA #2 brings everything great about the character. The book continues an engaging, well-paced, and humorous story, backed by excellent artwork. Highly recommend you hop on this new series.

The newest run of RED SONJA is a powerhouse series. Issue #3 continues the strong trajectory, dialing back the action a bit, but diving more into Sonja as a character. With three excellent issues under the belt, this is definitely a series to follow.

RED SONJA #4 is less consistent than previous issues in its storytelling and artwork. However, there is some solid character development, with a great eye for color. It's a more-than-serviceable chapter in a great ongoing story.

RED SONJA #5 backs off on the humor a bit, but more than makes up for it by enriching the story, heightening the stakes, and deepening our characters. This may well be the best issue yet in Russell's run with the character. Definitely worth picking up.

RED SONJA #6 swaps action for heightened political intrigue, providing another enjoyable chapter to close the first arc in Mark Russell's run. Mirko Colak's art doesn't get as much opportunity to shine as in previous issues, but strong storytelling more than makes up for it.

RED SONJA #7 is showcases the best of an already fantastic run. Writer Mark Russell delivers an action-packed, yet thematically dense story, with excellent artwork by Bob Q. RED SONJA is undoubtedly one of the best comics of 2019.

While it doesn't quite reach the masterful highs of our last issue, RED SONJA #8 is a strong showing in both storytelling and artwork. If you're not already reading this every month, get on it now.

RED SONJA #9 is one part tragedy, one part political thriller, and one part cosmic horror. An odd mix, but it all comes together in a great final product. Another suspenseful, stunning chapter in Mark Russell's ongoing story.

While the art falls a little flat, RED SONJA #10 offers a rich set of narratives sure to keep readers invested in what will happen next. Another solid chapter in Russell's fantastic run on the series.

With her back against the wall, Sonja stakes everything on a last stand at the bridge across the sea. RED SONJA #11 isn't the most thrilling read, despite offering plenty of intrigue. However, it sets us up for what promises to be a climactic showdown in the finale of this arc of the story.

Fans of this series couldn't have wished for a better conclusion to this arc than RED SONJA #12. Mark Russell outdoes himself with well-paced, tight storytelling, giving us a compelling and satisfying conclusion. Do not miss this.

Red Sonja #13 offers a succinct and engrossing first chapter for this new arc. This book continues to be one of the most exciting ongoing series currently on the market. It will be exciting to see where the creative team takes us next.

RED SONJA AND VAMPIRELLA MEET BETTY AND VERONICA #1 is a fun crossover event. It makes about as much sense as your average Scooby Doo episode, but there's definitely a level of charm to it. If the premise sounds enticing, you'll probably enjoy it.

RED SONJA: AGE OF CHAOS #1 is an engaging opening chapter to this crossover event. The book presents an interesting concept, propelled by capable storytelling and artwork. It's worth picking up.

SECTION ZERO #1 is a solid start to the story. The book offers plenty of action and intrigue, but falls short in characterization, relying on character archetypes to do some of the story's heavy lifting. If the creators can resolve that in future issues, it could be a great sci-fi/espionage story.

SHARKEY THE BOUNTY HUNTER #1 introduces great characters, humor and world building, tied together with a fun story and fantastic artwork. Definitely check this one out.

In case you thought the first issue might be a fluke, SHARKY THE BOUNTY HUNTER #2 demonstrates that this is a series worth reading. Millar's storytelling is great, as is the color and pencil work from artist Simone Bianchi. Highly recommended.

SHAZAM #1 is a welcome return for the world's mightiest mortal. It's a fun, all-ages book that dispenses with the origin stories and jumps right into the new adventures of the character and the extended Shazam family.

SHE SAID DESTROY #1 lays out an intriguing world and concept for the narrative. However, the characters that populate it feel flat and uninteresting, with artwork that is good overall, yet inconsistent. If the creators can iron out those issues, they could have a masterwork on their hands. The first chapter, however, falls short of wowing readers.

Snotgirl #11 welcomes readers back into the story with an issue that keeps the larger mysteries on the back burner. Instead, we're focused on the development of relationships between characters, especially between Lottie and Caroline. However, the larger story still comes up, leading to a cliff hanger at the issue's end. It's a strong start to the new story, and it will leave readers primed for the next issue.

SONATA #1 is a hit in just about every regard. It's a well-constructed narrative with solid worldbuilding, clear stakes, and fantastic artwork. Don't sleep on this one.

While it doesn't quite reach the same level as the series' powerhouse debut, SONATA #3 is another strong chapter in the tale. Highly recommended.

SPACE BANDITS #1 lays out a vision for a great story which embraces genre tropes, but never leans on them. Interesting characters and strong worldbuilding are the backbone of the narrative here. It's a great ride.

SPACE BANDITS #2 takes many of the elements that worked in the first book and expands upon them. The book relies on the tropes of prison drama stories, without leaning on them. It's a great next chapter in this ongoing story.

You get the impression that writer Christos Gage is feeling the pressure in SPIDER-GEDDON #4. The issue seems a bit rushed, leaving certain plot points a bit underdeveloped. However, it's not a bad entry, and the art holds up throughout.

The Spider-Geddon event had a lot of story to tie up in one issue. As a result, SPIDER-GEDDON #5 is extremely fast-paced once the climactic battle gets rolling. Still, it's an ambitious conclusion to the story, setting up some interesting developments for our myriad Spider-people in 2019 and beyond.

SPIDER-GWEN: GHOST SPIDER #1 is a high-energy continuation of the Spider-Gwen story. There's great storytelling, plus eye-catching artwork. I highly recommend it for fans of the character, as well as new readers.

SPIDER-GWEN: GHOST-SPIDER #2 is a strong follow-up to an impressive first issue. The writing is tight and fast-paced, with excellent pencil and color work. This may be a new favorite of mine among Marvel's current crop of titles.

SPIDER-MAN: ENTER THE SPIDER-VERSE #1 is only tangentially-related to any of the Spider-events going on right now. It's nonessential, so pick it up if you're an avowed web-head. Otherwise, you can skip it.

STRIKEFORCE #1 is a perfect blend of action and horror, with a paranoia-inducing premise. While the book's doesn't land perfectly in every department, it lays out an intriguing opening chapter that will keep readers coming back.

SYMBIOTE SPIDER-MAN: ALIEN REALITY #1 is a fun, engaging tale, brought to life with eye-catching artwork. It's an impressive start for this new black suit Spidey adventure.

IMMORTAL HULK: THE BEST DEFENSE #1 is a mystery story. What it lacks in action, it more than makes up for in tension and a mounting sense of dread.

VENOM: THE END is a great story concept. It sets us up for a cosmic-level tale that transcends reality. Ultimately, though, the book's one-shot format doesn't afford enough space for the story to really come to life.

THE FREEZE #1 avoids many of the cliches of the apocalypse/survival genre, providing a welcome change in the crowded field. The book offers concise, engaging storytelling with a unique art style. I recommend it.

I'm not gonna lie...I cried.

THE QUIET KIND is a story with a lot of potential, but it doesn't really deliver on its ambitious premise. One gets the impression this could have been much better-served as a graphic novel, thus giving the writer enough space to flesh out the story. Regardless, the artwork on its own is excellent.

The Unstoppable Wasp #1 is a mixed bag, but it's more "hit" than "miss." I'd recommend it for fans of the character or for those of other Marvel titles targeted at younger readers.

The artwork in THE WARNING #1 from Image Comics is appealing right from page one. However, the narrative isn't super cohesive, and there's not much to hook readers. It's an intriguing opener, but too soon to judge where the story is headed.

Despite some issues, TYPHOID FEVER: SPIDER-MANis a good start for this three-issue limited series. Typhoid Mary is letting madness loose on Manhattan, and it promises to take us to some interesting places despite a couple of hiccups in the story. The artwork is excellent, and I'm excited to see where we're headed next.

TYPHOID FEVER: X-MEN is a good middle chapter for an overall interesting three-part story. It has some issues in both the storytelling and art departments, but the positives outweigh the negatives for me overall.

VAMPIRELLA #1 is a solid start for this latest incarnation of the character. The storytelling is not without flaws, but there's more here that works than that doesn't.

The first half of VAMPIRELLA #2 feels a bit like we're spinning our narrative wheels, but not moving in any particular direction. The book's second half redeems it somewhat, but the real story and stakes are yet to show up.

VAMPIRELLA #4 delivers the strongest storytelling yet of Christopher Priest's run. The prologue is over; we're picking up momentum with a compelling narrative and solid artwork.

With each issue of his run on VAMPIRELLA, writer Christopher Priest has continued to delve into what makes the titular character tick. It's a fine character study, but five issues in, we still have little in the way of narrative, structure, or direction to hold the reader's interest.

VAULT OF SPIDERS #1 is a fun little snapshot of some of the less-traveled corners of the Spider-Verse. Even if these characters do turn up later in the Spider-Geddon event, you'll be able to get the gist without reading this volume. It's a nonessential, but I'd recommend it either way.

VINDICATION #1 plays out like a police procedural. The narrative is focused on a loose-canon cop and his obsession with ensuring a black man exonerated by DNA evidence doesn't stay free for long. However, the focus on the internal police element pushes the social commentary to the back burner in favor of genre tropes.

What If? Punisher #1 is not a masterpiece. However, it's a solid little story, backed by great and stylish artwork. I'd recommend checking it out.

WYRD #1 tosses us into the action and establishes the basics for our titular character, though we don't get a whole lot beyond that. The artwork is strong, and hopefully, successive installments in the four-issue run will develop the story in more depth.