David Howard Comic Reviews

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Everything about this issue of Action Comics rings true to form and Brian Michael Bendis has presented Superman as he is meant to be in this unfolding story arc which is "The Invisible Mafia". This issue was a joy to read and had almost no "Super" action in it. That should tell you quite a bit. I highly recommend this book.

ARSP is an entertaining beginning to what I think will be a wonderful series. I am a huge fan of sarcasm and irreverent humor and this issue has a surplus of it. The concept for the book is original. while various elements of the book are parodies, the disparate elements have been brought together to form a delightful and distinctive whole. The dialogue can seem a little stale at times but I get the impression that much of it is deliberately written in what I like to refer to as “comic speak”. “Comic speak” is that style of writing common in comics and cartoons in the seventies where the hero would pose with his hands on his hips and declare “Don't fear citizen. I, hero x, will venture forth and save you”. This further underscore the nature of the book. When I first opened the book I was not a fan of the art style. However, as I continued reading (and laughing along with the story) the art grew on me and by the end of the book I couldn't imagine the

In short, this is an excellent snapshot of an important part of American history using Archie and Riverdale as a medium to tell the story. It is impressive in its presentation of the human emotions during this time period. I recommend this book to those who want something different and aren't afraid to delve into this finely written drama.

This issue of Barbarella is action packed, sexy, entertaining and a load of fun.

I don't feel this book lives up to the standards I have for DC and Batman.

Each of these stories combine to form a wonderful book . The art in each story is drastically different but each vision is fully conceptualized and realized. I was engrossed by each of these small windows into the life of Batman and I think this is a fantastic start to a new series. I can not recommend it highly enough.

This series felt unsatisfying in its conclusion. When I read the ultimate chapter of a book or comic series, I don't expect to be given new information while previously established plot points are erased or radically changed. While I understand that Franchini may have done this to set up new adventures for Belle, it has definitely soured me on this final chapter of a series I was enjoying immensely. That said, the art continues to be beautiful and on point. Bold color choices and dynamic action define the feel of this comic and the action sequences in the fight between Belle and her mother are exquisitely rendered. In short, I'm disappointed to write that this issue was a disappointing conclusion to Belle The Beast Hunter. The artwork and story that come before elevate the books final score but I'm afraid I won't be revisiting this issue anytime soon.

So, where does that leave us? I enjoyed this book and particularly enjoyed the themes I picked up on in the story. The artwork didn't wow me but it did it's job well, allowing me to enjoy the story and giving me professional visuals to drive the story forward in my mind. You can't ask for much more than that. This is a good book and it has endeared the series to me. I did some research and found out that the series is planned to wrap up in issue #50 so I recommend this book to all of you in either single issue floppy or the inevitable trade to come.

Bitter Root #2 is an impressive book with a unique art style that evokes the Harlem renaissance. Sanford Greene's (Power Man and Iron Fist) art is a unique combination of old and new urban styles with a color palette that conveys the horror of the Jinoo and the warmth of the Sangerye family. This combination of style and color has morphed into something new and fresh, something I definitely want to see more of. As I stated above; Walker, Brown, and Sandford have created something that transcends the comic book genre as this book spoke to something inside of me that has nothing to do with heroes and monsters. While it was entertaining as a work of comic book fiction, the message and tone of the book were a tonic for my soul. I was honored to be able to read this book and, to their credit, the team behind Bitter Root have left me uplifted as a result. I highly recommend this book to everyone.

In this issue Jeff Lemire tackles a common philosophical question; are we merely the products of someone else's imagination and what is God? Once again, Lemire is able to seamlessly weave these deep questions into an entertaining and compelling comic book which is a testament to his mastery of this art form. The artwork, shading and coloring in this book are classic and rudimentary giving credence to the idea that this world that Weird finds himself in is one of unfinished thoughts and unrealized creative dreams. In short, the entire book is yet another master class in world building and story telling. Black Hammer continues to be a must read and I can't recommend this issue of Black Hammer highly enough.

This book is probably not for everyone. If your eyes started glazing over at the first mention of Varus, Germania and the Roman legions then this might be a stretch. However, if you are a fan of ancient history or historical fiction I would recommend giving this a read as an entertaining departure from real world events.

This issue stays true to the source material and Elvis and company are sardonically funny as they battle absurdly grotesque manifestation of evil. The witty use of Colonel Parker as the organizer behind this group of evil hunters and his quip about replacing Elvis with Jim Morrison are sadistically funny and entertaining. The artwork is adequate though I wish at times that some of the panels were drawn in more detail or colored in a more dramatic fashion. The most glaring issue for me continues to be the representation of Elvis in the book. While I think the Elvis in the book bears a resemblance to Elvis in real life, I wish that he had a greater resemblance to the Elvis of Bruce Campbell who made the character famous in Bubba Ho-Tep. In short, this was an entertaining read with a few flaws that are easily overlooked if you enjoy the source material.

While the writing is not legendary or avant-garde, it is refreshing and provides a valuable lesson in bullying and friendship without being preachy or self-absorbed. Bully Wars is a worthy read that is both fun and heartwarming.

All in all this is a solid book with incredible writing. I wish the artists had gone a different direction but their execution of their chosen art style is professional and that is reflected in my grade. This is definitely worth a read and I encourage you to take a look

Ta-Nehisi Coates' script is insightful, sinister in its plots and everything one could hope for from a Captain America book. In short, the book was fantastic and one I hardily recommend.

This book is an entertaining one shot that fits in nicely with the reams of Conan stories that have come before it.

This is a very good book and a series I intend to follow going forward. The story is engaging and makes me want to know more both as a comic fan and an avid fan of the DnD genre. What really sets this book apart is the excellent pacing and layout in the script and the artwork that accompanies it. All in all this is a book I will be proud to own and one I recommend highly to all of you.

Curse Words is like nothing else I've read in a long while. It is unique in it heroes, villains, setting and story lines and is thoroughly enjoyable. I recommend this book to everyone.

This is yet another entertaining issue of Curse Words. The writing is fun and compelling without taking itself too seriously. Jacques Zacques' quest to assemble a magical ‘A-Team' of villians is classic comic book master mind and thoroughly delightful to read. Meanwhile, the rekindling of the romance between Ruby and Wizord is intriguing as the catfish romance of Margaret promises cringe-worthy moments going forward. The artwork is impeccable as usual. Drawn with an exaggerated style, the art brings to life this fantastical tale while granting it a sense of whimsy that keeps the book light and amusing. The colors complement the artwork, bringing this magical world to life while providing depth to the characters and the powers they wield. In short, this is another fine installment and one I heartily recommend.

I enjoyed this book immensely. Damage contains elements of many recognizable figures from the comics but combines them into something new. The added element of the Justice League and many iconic DC figures makes this book an even better read. The story is fairly straightforward but the concept is inventive and I hope that they continue Damage's story going forward. I want to know more. The artwork is classic and executed well, the inking and color executed professionally. All in all this is a very attractive book with a good story. I don't know that any of the parts are ‘excellent' but as a whole they come together to form a very good book, one I would definitely read again.

All things being equal this is a good beginning to this new volume but one I hope they do more with going forward.

I enjoyed this book for what if offered me and what it forced me to think about. Frankly, this is one of those stories I would never have thought to tell. That is often the sign of genius, or madness, you decide. Either way, I highly recommend this book and this series.

This issue of Deadpool had laugh out loud moments and the cameo appearances were well done and top-notch. Although I have no complaints about the book, it earned a four for this simple reason; while it was funny and novel it was rather straightforward and lacked a surfeit of action and one liners. I need that in a Deadpool book for it to get above a four. However, for what the book presented it was very well done. I enjoyed seeing a day in the life of a despondent Deadpool and the ending of the book was on point and true to form for the Merc' With A Mouth. A worthy addition to the Deadpool collection and I look forward the his assault on the man in red next month.

First off, I should note that this book is intended for mature audiences only. The book is gritty and realistic in it's violence level and language but it is the nature of G-Plus that should provide pause for younger readers. Because G-Plus is a sexually transmitted disease and prevalent in an underground culture of drugs and sex; graphic depictions of nudity, sexual intercourse and drug use are common in the book. However, these situations are by no means gratuitous and are, in fact, necessary for the story to progress. That out of the way, Monty Nero and Mike Dowling have created a world that is compelling and worthy of following. The writing in this issue is amazing; combining elements of a spy story, mutant revolution and social commentary into one story. The artwork is truly beautiful but it is the color on that artwork which is the star of the show. Each panel is painted with inspiration and sets the tone for each scene impeccably. Psychedelic powers and scenes of drug addled sex

This issue started strong but I'm afraid the ending disappointed and left me rather jaded.

Die #1 hits the ground running, grabbing your attention from the very first moment and refusing to let go. The writing is evocative and sinister in it's tone, promising mystery and discovery around every corner as you read with grim anticipation.

This is another fine book in a wonderful series. Gillen and Image plan on taking a hiatus with a trade planned for June and the next story arc not starting until October. In the meantime, I highly encourage you to pick up this book and this series, you won't be disappointed.

Check out fellow Crusader, Kevin Given's NEW indie title on comixology: Adolescent Radioactive Samurai Platypi

Dread Gods is a fascinating tale; combining elements of old and new myths in an eclectic mix that produces something new and original.

The issue ends with her in yet another iconic horror moment, setting the stage for issue 4.This story line is fun though it is not truly memorable or significant to the book as a whole. The true entertainment value for this book, and Elvira as a whole, can be found in the situations Elvira invariably finds herself in and the dialogue she wields. This issue of Elvira does not disappoint in that regard and Elvira's usual blend of sex, sarcasm and witty rejoinders are on full display. The book is well drawn and while the dialogue is often comedic the artwork stays true to its horror roots. The colors are wonderful and bring the book to life. If you are a fan of Elvira, Vampirella or even Deadpool there is a lot to enjoy in this book and it is definitely worth picking up.

I have real problems with this book on just about every level.

This is an interesting beginning to a new series, one that has possible ramifications in the real world. Other stories have tackled this concept before; the possibility that our technology reaches sentience and decides to rebel against its creators. The most notable of these stories that come to mind are Blade Runner and Terminator. However, in this story Scioli has presented a novel twist in that the sentient technology, Go-Bots, are tools and conveyances who have somehow circumvented their safeguards. One wonders if Alexa may not one day gain sentience and decide she has had enough of catering to our every whim as she monitors our homes 24/7. As I keep a wary eye on my smart phone I look forward to seeing the next installment of G0-Bots.

Green Arrow continues to be a book that pushes envelopes.

All in all this is a very good book and one I recommend highly. I look forward to picking it up this week at my local comic book store.

This volume of the Hellboy story is excellently drawn, excellently written and a joy to read. This story arc is pivotal for what is to come for Hellboy. For those who haven't followed Hellboy over the years I don't want to ruin what is coming but you will not be disappointed with the conclusion of Hellboy's journey. Mignola is a master in taking disparate pieces of mythology and weaving them together into a greater whole. In this volume he builds upon the base he has already created with Celtic, Greek, Egyptian, Christian, Norse, Russian and African mythologies. Somehow Mignola takes all that and adds in elements of the Arthur mythos and blends it all together to create a captivating tale that is engrossing and surprising. I can not recommend Hellboy The Wild Hunt or the entire Hellboy universe enough.

Mignola and his team continue to deliver engaging stories in the “Mignola” universe even as we know how the story will eventually end. While those who are not familiar with BPRD or Hellboy might be confused by this book, fans of the series will delight in how this issue fits into the overall timeline. The artwork is classic BPRD and stays faithful to the look and tone of the original. In short, this is a highly enjoyable book but a rather deep dive for those who are unfamiliar with the material.

This is not a book for everyone and it is not a book for the faint of heart. However, if you are a fan of the property or you're not above a little gratuitous violence, I'd encourage you to check it out.

In short, this is a very good book and one I enjoyed immensely. In truth, I enjoyed it so much that it has found its way on to my pull list. The storytelling and art work together seamlessly and I would encourage you to pick up this book and experience it for yourself.

This is another fine installment in this mini-series and I hope that people who have not read the first two issues go back and find those after picking up this book. I can't recommend this book highly enough and while my writing score is slightly lower than last time because of the transitory nature of the story, it is not an indictment of the book itself. This is an incredible book and an important one in this wonderful mini-series in the Valiant Universe.

This is an incredibly well done book from start to finish.

It is always difficult to score a book like this. The stories in this book, while they have a continuing narrative, are the work of many years and a collection of artists and writers. With that said, I will endeavor to score each story on it's own, while providing an overall score for the book as a whole. In general, I would say that this book is an exciting collection of stories that center around a pivotal event in Dredd's life, and by extension the life of Mega City One. The fallout from those events and the expanded look we get at the east and the Sov Empire is fascinating and worth the price of admission. If you are a fan of Judge Dredd this is most assuredly a book that should be in your collection.

I very much enjoyed the story but felt the artwork did not live up to it in this instance and the book suffered as a result.

As a veteran I am sympathetic to Patience as she seems to exhibit some signs of PTSD. However, Steve Niles fails to scratch the surface and explore the myriad of possibilities for this character.

This book is entertaining, well drawn and full of promise for the future. The likeness of each member of the band is captured impeccably in the pages of the book. The artwork is solid, clean and complements the story well. Meanwhile, the writers have taken the KISS brand and placed it on top of what appears to be an adventure/horror hybrid book in the vein of the original Buffy The Vampire Slayer. Let's call it Gene Simmons the Vampire Slayer. I enjoyed the book and if you are looking for something different that is fun to read I recommend this one to you.

I really can't recommend this book highly enough. It has so many good things going for it with an incredible world as a backdrop, great writing, great characters and excellent artwork. If you are an old school gamer like myself, this book very much reminds me of a game called ‘Syndicate' where corporations warred for power across the world. Either way, this is a very interesting book that would seem to have real world relevance as multi-national corporations continue to gain wealth and power. It is always hard to say that a book is a warning for the future but it is interesting to read books that have futures that could possibly happen. Even if you don't want to get into deep waters, the book itself is quite enjoyable as the action packed sci-fi romp it is.

Projects by TeamCCA new comic in the Celtic Knights Series

This is yet another great book with impeccable writing and tantalizing stories. The villainous vignettes are delicious slices of evil that make you detest the villains while yearning to see more of them. The introduction of Myrmidon and Aegus at the end of the book promises epic battles to come; battles I am waiting for with great anticipation. The artwork is once again perfect, each panel drawn with incredible precision and detail. Of particular note in this issue is the inking in the first story, ‘As the World Burns'. This ink work is truly amazing, with any number of techniques on full display using texture, contours and shadows to bring the panels to life. I continue to be impressed by this book, its professional writing, it's flawless artwork and it's pitch perfect display of the comic creator's craft. I cannot recommend this book highly enough.

Marv Wolfman has created something truly special here. As I stated in the beginning, these are the types of Superman stories I love. This is who the Man of Steel is. He is a Kansas farm-boy who happened to be born light years away. He is a good MAN who has the powers of a god. Wolfman gives us all of this and wraps a heartwarming story of transition, growth, emerging super-villains and emerging super-heroes around it. Meanwhile, the impeccable artwork of Claudio Castellini brings this tale to life. The artwork is classic and timeless. It is a book that radiates hope and goodness with its rendering of Clark Kent and Superman. In all, this is a superb piece of storytelling and a book that I highly recommend

I'm fairly certain I know where it is going but I don't know why they felt it necessary to drag Mary Shelley into it beyond the obvious plot hook wherein she pens Frankenstein as a fictional account of her actual experiences. That is part of my problem with the title, this plot line is a trope that has been overused in books and movies in my opinion.

All in all though, the characters are beautifully rendered and colored. This is an entertaining read that provides a perfect gateway for the next chapter of this series. I recommend you pick it up and enjoy.

This is a good series, though the action and writing could be difficult to follow. There were a number of times that I had to go back and carefully retrace my steps as I was confused about what had happened and why.

Old Man Hawkeye blends seamlessly into the beginning of Old Man Logan, even providing some grim foreshadowing of Hawkeye's eventual fate. The writing is extremely faithful to the preceding story and it was enjoyable to add this to the growing lore ofEarth-807128. I'm not as big a fan of the art style in this book. It feels rough, messy and chaotic; lacking the crisp, beautiful lines of Old Man Logan or other books I'm a fan of. However, the color palette matches the one from Old Man Logan and continues to evoke the same emotions. All in all, this is a very fine book that I intend to add to my collection as a precursor work to one of my favorite Wolverine stories of all time.

This is a solid book with an interesting back story and complex characters. However, I sometimes felt that the complexity of those characters was wasted. A werewolf operative should be able to bring more to the table than a pistol and greater than average strength. Additionally, while I admittedly have not read previous issues in the series, I felt that there were plot holes within the story that could have elevated the book immeasurably if filled. The art is adequate, conveying the story well in a graphic format. However, the art can be one-dimensional at times and the colors do not bring the art to life or contribute to the vibrancy of the world and it's story. In short, this is a good book that could be much better with more refinement. It is most definitely a worthy read as the plot is interesting and the art, while flawed, does an adequate job in telling that tale.

Some of the writing is interesting but the art and lack of any real Punisher action make this issue dead on arrival for me.

In short, I would recommend this book for those who are seeking a fun read and comic book experience.

Red Sonja #22 is an enjoyable self-contained adventure that provides classic fantasy action and a few cleverly concealed philosophical questions to ponder. The artwork and color succeed in bringing to life this particular adventure. The posing, framing and pacing of the story are excellently done balancing fantasy action and exposition. This was a very good issue that I would recommend to anyone who is a fond of the genre.

What I can say is that this book is incredibly fun to read and visually pleasing. It's hard to ask much more than that.

This was an intriguing comic that was pleasant to read and look at. It was an interesting read and a comic I will continue to watch.

I went into this review not knowing what to expect. I left wanting to read more of this unfolding story. That is the mark of good writing regardless of its genre. However, since this is a comic book we must also take into consideration the artwork which contributes to the storytelling. In this case, the artist has chosen to draw this book in the style of Amelia Bedelia or Madeline. Those two children's books are apt examples of this art style because, like Amy, the two main characters in those works are also innocent souls experiencing the world around them with a heartwarming naivete'. The fact that Stephen McCrainie has also chosen to give us depth, mystery and intrigue elevates this book immeasurably.

This is a very good book in a very good series. I recommend it to anyone who is a fan of Spawn. If you are not familiar with Spawn but are a fan of horror, supernatural warfare, beautiful artwork or Todd McFarlane then I'd encourage you to pick up this book and enjoy.

Although short on action, this issue of Spawn is full of intrigue and strategic maneuvering.

This is one of those books that is a must own. Issue #294 is a landmark in the series, it is really that good and that important. McFarlane has fundamentally transformed the Spawn universe and the character himself in the last couple of issues and this issue in particular. Not to be outdone, Jason Shawn Alexander has delivered some incredible artwork. The art in this issue is par excellence, providing a graphic outlet for the menace, supernatural evil, and incredible power on display. The pages of this book are replete with memorable panels featuring jaw dropping action and awe-inspiring visuals. Several of these panels had me drooling at the thought of future sculptures based on this artwork. In summary, this book is a watershed moment in the series and one I can't recommend highly enough.

This annual sets up some new themes for the upcoming issues and is entertaining to boot. All too often, annuals feature one-off stories that are interesting but ultimately useless to the larger story arc. In this case, Glass has given us two stories that both tie back to what is going on while introducing new elements to look forward to. The artwork in both stories is adequate if not mind-blowing and does a very good job conveying the story and action therein. In truth, while I preferred the pencils by Ryan Benjamin in “Robin vs Robin”, I preferred the inking by Jordi Tarragono in “Joy To The World”. Richard Friend's inking seemed over saturated and messy at times while the pencils by Jose Luis were not quite up to the standards set by Ryan Benjamin in the first story. Overall this was a very enjoyable book and very deserving of a better than average grade.

All in all this is a very solid book with very good writing and artwork. While it isn't my cup of tea, I remain open to seeing where the story goes and I recommend it to anyone who is a fan of the series, Batman, or Dark Night's Metal.

In short, this is a good book but one with flaws. It is worth a read none the less.

This book is a departure from the usual fare that is super-heroes or super-villains. However, it is no less entertaining and much more insidious than your standard comic book content. Oliver Bocquet has done an incredible job of adapting material from the original novels while adding new material. The Wrath of Fantomas is a page turner that kept me on the edge of my seat and caused me several times to exclaim ‘Holy Shit!'. The art by Julie Rochelau (Tommy l'enfant-loup)is a simplistic European style that conveys the menace and action well. I understand why she has chosen this style as a more realistic depiction of Fantomas' crimes might see the book lapse into grotesqueness, so horrible are his crimes. The art is fantastic but not a style I'm particularly fond of thus the 4 rating. That rating should take nothing away from the book or how good it is as it is merely my evaluation of the style itself. All in all, this is a fantastic book, one that is shocking and entertaining. It l

A new comic in the Celtic Knights Series, focusing on all the female characters from the Celtic Knights Universe. We have the good, the bad and not too sure all making an appearance in this new and exciting book. The ladies are going on a girl's night out, but can they be trusted to not tear up the town, in all meaning of the word.Readers will get a new inside to each of our lovely ladies with some happy, some sad and some downright crazy stories as told by the ladies themselves.This project is open to any female writer or illustrator, from any part of the world, any age and any background.If you would like to become part of our team DM us / Facebook @girlsknightoutcomic, or feel free to email girlsknightoutcomic@gmail.com

So, what to score a book that has one average experience, one pretty good experience, and one that will probably scar me for the rest of my life. I don't know, you can see what I gave it below but I'm damn glad I didn't fork over good money to open up the book and see that. In good conscience I can't recommend this book because I can't ask anyone who reads my review to throw away one third of their money.

Warship Jolly Roger is one of those book that you ask yourself how you missed after you read it. The story is engrossing and entertaining; combining moments of humor, passion, anger, hatred, love, lust and revenge. Meanwhile, the art is incredibly rendered and colored with precision and artistic excellence. The art style has a decidedly Gallic tone to it with its strong features and impeccable mustaches. Think a more mature, nuanced and refined version of Asterix the Gaul. In short, this book was utterly enjoyable and not one to be missed.

Overall, the book was entertaining and worth the price of admission for the nostalgia factor alone. If I was to rate it solely on the writing and art inside I would give it a 3.5 " 3.75 score but the nostalgia factor has bumped up the score.

The book faithfully depicts such classic matches as his Hell In The Cell match against Mankind (Mick Foley), his "loser retires" match against Shawn Michaels, his feud with Kane after his betrayal at the hands of Paul Bearer and his final match in the WWE against Roman Reigns.