Deejay Dayton Comic Reviews

Perhaps because Thibert is doing the inks, this really looks like a jump back to the pre-Flashpoint Superman as well. For a story in which there is little dynamic action, there is plenty of variety and creativity in the art.

Its funny and frenetic, and exactly what I want from the Super Sons.

If you want crazy, silly fun, with sharp and witty dialogue, unexpected twists and pure joy permeating each page, then pick this book up.

Solidly entertaining, once again. Nothing less than I have come to expect from the Super Sons.

Tomasi and Barberi have really hit their stride on this book. I really hope that, once the miniseries is over, the Super Sons return in an ongoing monthly. This is far too much fun to end.

Another fun and funny adventure, even if the main storyline, the Rex Luthor plot, is more or less put on hold this issue.

The actual story for this issue is pretty low key, although the villains do show up before its over, and Superboy and Robin are in a very bad situation at the climax of the tale.

Buy it now, and see if Damien going solo works for you.

So buy it. Buy two. Three would work as well. I need the Super Sons in my life.

The robotic Jonah Hex really commands this issue. Tomasi makes him sound like his human predecessor, giving him a voice and viewpoint much more jaded than the young heroes, so it contrasts very well. Perhaps because he is dealing with someone even more cynical than he is, Robin comes off a bit muted this time around.

It does make me fear that this might be the last we see of the Super Sons. If that is the case, at the least the duo are going out on a high note.

But no matter where Robin and Superboy go from here, Tomasi an crew have created a miniseries worthy of their old series. The dynamic between the two boys, their dialogue, is always fun. And Barberi and Santorelli brought the chaos to life so very well. Suitable for younger readers, fully entertaining for older ones, the Super Sons have made their mark. Bravo.

Nor am I left, at the end, hoping this will pick up with later issues. As I said at the start, I didnt really care for Snyders run on Batman, and this feels like it will be more of the same.

Some very nice art on this as well. I liked Romitas work on this from the get go, and he displays a firm hand with scenes both human and super-human, as well as the wild tech required by the story.

I also want to mention Blackjack, another member of N.E.M.O., the woman who recruited Black Manta in the first place. While not much is done with her in this particular story, I am very glad to see the use of an Aquaman villain named Blackjack. For those who have been following my history of all the DC series, Blackjack will be familiar as the first recurring villain that Aquaman faced, way back during his run in More Fun Comics, and continuing to be a constant problem for the hero throughout his first decade of stories. Blackjack had faded into obscurity long ago, and I am glad to see this character, or at least the characters name, resurrected. Or should I say, given a rebirth.

Top marks got to Scot Eaton for the art on this story. I always love the detail of his work, and there is a panoramic view of Atlantis from the royal palace that is breathtaking in its beauty.

Batman summons his crew, Batwoman, Nightwing, Orphan, Spoiler and Clayface, and gives each specific duties, while he faces off for some really well drawn action against the monster. Though the other heroes get small roles, they are tidily and effectively characterized, and I am consistently enjoying watching Clayface using his powers for good, and challenging their limits.

Mikel Janin does a very good job with the art. Santa Prisca looks as deadly from the water as it does from inside the prison, and Batmans physical exertions are so well drawn you can feel his muscles tighten.

Overall, I have been very impressed with how Rebirth has been playing out. It seems that DC really thought about what they were trying to do, quite the opposite of how the New 52 came off. I have faith in the company again, which I was losing a few years back.

More questions to answer for this storyline, but it feels so masterfully handled that I am not fearing a let down when it concludes.

I enjoyed this comic so much that I am hesitant to say too much and spoil things. There is a truly stomach churning death scene that worked perfectly. And Alfreds actions while Swamp Thing is having tea were another one of the pleasant bright spots in the tale.

While this issue might very well have concluded once the mystery was solved, King spins things into an even wilder direction, and I cannot even begin to guess how this story arc is going to resolve. But I do know I am going to enjoy the ride.

Every so often a team takes on Batman, and finds a new way to view the character, new things to do with him. Thats far from an easy task, more than 50 years after the character was created, and with so many talented writers and artists having applied their skills to his adventures. But with each issue of this run, Tom King is showing himself to have achieved a new pinnacle with the dark knight.

Mister Miracle also tends to be a very dialogue heavy book, in relation to the action, but at least Miracle and the others move from spot to spot, or the action cuts between them. Even in Kings run on Batman there has been a significant use of flashbacks to show action. But he does like to script like a playwright, and delve into conversation. I have defended this before, but for once, I have to take the other side of the argument.

Bravo to all involved. You executed an issue beyond my wildest expectations.

Its not like one is going to learn any new secrets about Batman from these files, but they do make for a decent read.

But seriously, there are far better ways to spend your money than to give it to a racist, homophobic asshole. Yes, Van Scriver is very talented. Sure, it is probably wrong to dismiss a persons artistic work because of their beliefs. But with the US going whole hog into Nazism, even to the degree of supporting the death penalty for gays, and encouraging religious fanatics to discriminate against them, the time has come for everyone to stand up against these people. Van Scriver gets work because of his talent, I understand that. He has just been tapped to do the illustrations for a book by Jordan Peterson, the University of Toronto professor who promotes hatred against trans people, and speaks at Neo-Nazi rallies. But if enough people boycott Van Scriver and his work, perhaps DC will shed the bigot from their roster.

There are also three Kirby reprints, all installments of the Young Gods of Supertown feature that ran in New Gods. Two of the stories feature Fastbak, and one centres on Vykin, of the Forever People.

While I was more than content when the original Bloodlines crossover series ended, the conclusion of the miniseries simply left me wanting more. Fortunately, the end does have a group of the new heroes heading to Metropolis, hoping to get help before they also fall under the control of the parasites inhabiting them. I hope it doesnt take another 23 years to follow it up this time.

I also love the way Dr. Fate is being used in this book, and the way Kolins illustrates the character. Is this the same Dr. Fate that so recently had his own book? I am not certain at all about that. He both looks and acts differently. More like the classic Dr. Fate of Earth-2. Is this another hint that the classic JSA will be returning?

Perhaps this storyline could be moving a little more quickly, but its not like the tale is dragging at all. The time gets spent on the emotional states of Jaime and his supporting cast, which functions well to raise the stakes and make the events of the story hold more weight.

I also really enjoy Kolins art on this issue. The fight between Dr. Fate and Blue Beetle looks great, but the scenes dealing with everyday people in normal locations are also visually quite strong.

Giffen and Kolins (with J.M. DeMatteis added in for good measure) deliver such a wild mix of comedy and action, and utilize a wide ranging cast of DC characters, its hard not to love it.

There is an awful lot to enjoy in this book. Giffen, DeMatteis and Kolins have spun this first story arc into some magnificently designed chaos. Its such a shame to mar that with such a cheap rip-off laugh.

The conclusion of the issue is quite effective. Im sure it will be a very minor spoiler to reveal that the villain gets defeated. One can almost always be certain of that happening, eventually. What makes this ending work well is that this does not prove to be a pure victory. The characters, particularly Jaime, are really in a much worse condition than they were before the triumph. It definitely makes one need to keep on going to the next issue.

And while it remains a super hero book, the stories always remain nicely grounded in the everyday life of a teenage hero. There is just enough pathos for characters to remain sympathetic. Its actually quite the achievement to balance the humour, realism and touching moments.

So whither Blue Beetle now? DC seems determined to give this guy a book, and all but guaranteed a readership of this latest run with the guest star packed stories thus far. I really wouldnt mind a bit of a break from that, and just spend some time with Jamie and Ted Kord and the supporting cast.

Its hard to really gauge where Sebela will take the book from this issue. Its good, but not great. His skill with the interactions of the main characters is enough to make me keep going for another issue, though, which is really all that matters.

So I am hoping to be giving this book a positive review again in the future, and have not give up hope on that being possible.

True, Giffens banter is sadly missing from this issue, but on the whole Sebela is doing a creditable job carrying on with the book. But one really cannot ignore how much Kolins is bringing to the series.

So yeah, there are some good things here, and it looks great. But I am not overwhelmed by Christopher Sebelas tales thus far. True, he has just started scripting this book, but I am missing Giffen. And I dont think that is likely to change.

I cant say that I am either surprised or dismayed at Blue Beetles cancellation. But I will miss Kolins art.

Aside from that one point, this is an enjoyable re-launch for the character.

Im still a fan of the book. I just hope the next issue will be better.

Its still early enough to get in on this book from the beginning, and I would highly recommend doing so.

But that might be a lot to be tossing at the series for issue 4. Whatever. I am enjoying it, and liking where it seems to be going. Nuff said.

While I wish a bit more had happened during this issue, the blurb for the next one informs us that Tims trip to the Dreaming will have consequences. Since more is to come, I will reserve judgement on that.

But thats it. I have spent a lot of time complaining about one element of the story, and its not that big a deal, really. This is still a good read, better than you might be thinking from the disproportionate amount of time I spent on the one flaw I found.

But I am engaged enough to keep going and find out.

There has been more than a little doom and gloom pervading this series, and I was happy to take a break from that with this issue.

Its the grounded nature of this run that is making it work best. And making the magical parts stand out so much stronger.

Perhaps this comic is not quite for everyone. Perhaps if you take no joy in life, you will not be able to revel in the wonderful madness and dive on in through the obscure characters. If so, I pity you.

So dont waste any more time reading this review. Just go out and buy the book. Your life will be better for it. Or at least, more entertaining.

This book is about the character of Forager, yes. But far more than that, this book is about the joy one can have in reading comics. It finds humour in old, serious stories but not in a mocking way. Rather, Bug " The Adventures of Forager is about the delight that one can have swimming around in the wonderful worlds of Jack Kirby.

I have decided there is one really horrible, sad, soul killing aspect to this series, though. Its only a miniseries. Whatever will I do when it ends? My life will feel empty.

This is another perfect issue, as fulfilling as it is possible to be. And as a sucker for the use of board game layouts in comics, the final page had me squealing in delight.

Just buy it. Yes, it will mean more if you are well grounded in Kirbys DC work, but you really ought to be. If you arent, then buy this and read it and THEN go dig out everything that gets referred to. Its really a win-win situation.

So while I cannot recommend this book for what it claims to be, I would say its a must read for any of those crushed by the cancellation of Prez.

Its an impressive first issue, and hopefully bodes well for an interesting ongoing book.

And an honourable mention goes to the Zatanna tale, for the delightful Halloween decorations in the margins of the page, by Mark Buckingham.

While it would be very easy to dismiss the miniseries, the simple fact that I was so excited by the finale means that, despite itself, this was a success. The purpose of it was to spark interest in upcoming books and stories, and it sure did that.

There are two Kirby reprints. The first is a Young Gods of Supertown story from New Gods, which features Big Bear and Serifan, from the Forever People. The other is a fun science fiction story from Tales of the Unexpected.

In life, you do not fight battles because you intend to win. You fight them merely because they need to be fought.

Rather than stick a bunch of anthropomorphic animals into the story, Weeks evokes them while giving them human form. The Bugs Bunny character in the first tale has the head shape of the rascally rabbit, and his teeth, but is undeniably human. This is a big risk. If it didnt work, it would have felt awful. But each of the Looney Tunes characters who show up in the first part are easily recognizable, despite not looking anything like they do in the cartoons. Such re-imagining is a hallmark of a talented artist.

Ive been missing the Legion since they lost their own book during the New 52. A new series seems in the offing, from developments in Rebirth. Until that comes into being, this special has satisfied my cravings.

Out of all the DC/Looney Tunes specials that were released this week, I would say the Catwoman/Sylvester and Tweety one is the best, but the Lex Luthor/Porky Pig special runs a very close second, and the lead story is the one that really stayed with me after I read it.

This isnt the best of the Looney Tunes/DC books this week, but its certainly worth a look.

While it is true that only the Batman story reads well on its own, DC Nation is definitely more than just an ad for things coming up. And geez, its free, so its not like you are losing anything by reading it.

Now, I said that was the final story in the issue, and thats true, but I did save the best for last. The Harley Quinn framing sequence, of a huge party for the various DC characters, is funny and wild, very creative, and is what puts this volume over the top as a truly great Christmas special. Written by Paul Dini, with art by Elsa Charetier, my favourite moments include Black Canary and Zatannas performance of the Twelve Days of Christmas, Flash and his villains carolling around the piano, and Menor-antlers.

The issues closes out with a great reprint, the Neal Adams Batman story that sees him spend Christmas singing carols with the Gotham police.

A very enjoyable collection of unusual stories, all bound together by a hapless Rip Hunter. Fun for one and all.

It was fun, it looked great, I had a ball reading it. Isnt that what really matters?

The art is beautifully rendered, both on the people and on the location. The house in a well done gothic is essentially a character unto itself, and Lan Medina imbues the edifice with life and menace.

All the plots and high emotions reach their climax as this issue comes to a close, and there are some very effective pages where the art goes wild. Im really looking forward to how this all plays out in the finale.

While I am not sure that there is any need to revisit the characters from this story, I certainly would not be averse to reading another Deadman miniseries like this. And of course, it would HAVE to be titled Sinister House of Secret Love.

So I guess my advice is to rip the cover off, burn it, and pretend it never existed. Then youll enjoy Adam Strange #1 far more.

And though I do prefer the Adam Strange parts to the Hawkman parts, overall this was a satisfying read.

An excellent chapter all around, this also features a really funny encounter between a naked Katar Hol and Adam Strange. The art remains firmly family friendly, but Adams observation about where the hair grows on Hawkmans body gives the reader a definite mental image to fill in the blanks.

The series reaches a fulfilling conclusion, but it also leaves a big door open for the story to continue in another book. I certainly hope it does. I always enjoy Marc Andreykos storytelling, and would eagerly follow a continuation of this tale.

Denys Cowan does some excellent art on this, which really helped carry me through the parts of the book I found a bit less engaging, in terms of story.

The big reveal at the end is not much of one, not for anyone who has been reading this character over the years. But then, I can hardly criticize the story for being true to the character.

Sadly, I have been, more or less, waiting for this to get cancelled for a while. The series that I really enjoy never seem to make it. And Dr. Fate has only two more issues to run. I hope he gets Rebirth-ed.

Wow after wow after wow. McCarthy gets to go psychedelic and cosmic, and it's all so lush to look at. Every single page in this issue could just pull you in to its dreamworld.

Dog Days of Summer is at its best with the Killer Croc, Animal Man, and Batcow outings, but even though I didn't love all the tales, I hugely enjoyed the volume as a whole.

Ways storytelling is excellent, and I found the tale at all times odd and entertaining. High marks also go to the artist, Nick Derrington, who creates a solidly real world for the characters to exist in. One that serves to emphasize the more unusual elements of the series.

Deringtons art does a lot to help make this work. His renderings of familiar characters are spot on, Robotman looks great, and he was so precise in the location Casey winds up in towards the end that I knew exactly where she was before the big reveal. At the same time, we get such wonderfully strange shots, like the cat licking up the fluid Robotmans brain is sitting in. And it all feels very casual and real, even when we are completely outside reality.

And so would Keith Giffen, I think, from the Existential Crisis page, which sure looks like it features Blotto the Clown from the Uh Oh Squad, a character never before seen outside of Ambush Bug stories.

Weird and wonderful. Fun and frantic. Everything one wants (or ought to want) from Doom Patrol.

And for me, well, I can tell you that I am guaranteed to give a glowing review to any story that includes Flex Mentallo radiating the words Hero of the Beach. So I guess I am stuck having to rave about this book. I dont mind that at all.

I also an really enjoying the slow development of Sam, Caseys partner in Danny the Ambulance. Sam more or less takes the role that Joshua Clay had in Morrisons run, the normal person thrust into the middle of the Doom Patrols insanity. His friendship with Casey started him down this path, but we have seen his relationship with his unusual son, and in this issue we meet his missing wife, one of Janes cult members.

So many revivals of Doom Patrol have been well intentioned, but heavily flawed, attempts. Somehow, Gerard Way makes writing this book look easy as $#!+.

Im really not sure where Way is going to be taking this plot. All I know is that bad $#!+ is on the way.

Its difficult for me to imagine how this all would read to someone unfamiliar with the team, though I expect if they had any sense of fun they couldnt help but enjoy it. Still, for those who have been around, there are always great little gifts, like the t-shirt with Beast Boys image on it, in this one.

If I had to pick out something that disappointed me in this issue it would be that Mr Nobody doesnt get as much play as I had expected he would. But that is such a minor quibble. Its not like I could find a single panel in this story that would have been better served with Mr Nobody.

I truly hope that the collected editions of this series sell well enough to warrant a return. I need Doom Patrol in my life. We all do. Even Mr Nobody.

I really hope that the remainder of the team pop up again, and this is not just some weird new version of the Doom Patrol. I have loved the group in most of their incarnations, but this is not what I want out of the title. Not at all.

There is no question that Way really understands what the Doom Patrol is about. And James Harvey seems to be a perfect visual accompaniest.

Its all so weird and bizarre and downright fun. This is Doom Patrol at its best, no two ways about it.

The pay-off is excellent, reminiscent of the conclusion to one of DCs big crossover series from the 90s. And it sets up the final issue, an epilogue to the whole sad saga of Earth 2.

While I would be overjoyed to see them back, I will admit that this version has also gained a place in my fanboy heart.

I do not want to lose these characters. But I want the real JSA back as well. Dont let me down, DC, find a way to have both versions, in some fashion, in your reborn universe.

Despite that, its a good issue, well written, with very nice art. But as each issue of this apparently final storyline goes on, I wonder more and more what is meant to become of this world, and this comic, as Rebirth plays out.

I enjoyed every single page of this story. But at the same time, I found it lacking. Im ready for the grand finale. Bring it on!

Again, I dont really blame the creative team on the book for this. I have the feeling that they were working to the demands of the higher editorial staff, who wanted this book to last until the new Justice Society get introduced. And maybe that got stretched out a little longer than original expected.

I really cannot rave about this first issue enough. Something old and something new, a shiny new toy in a well trod playground.

But no matter what, I am still looking forward to the match set up on the final page, taking place in the next issue.

I find myself already hoping that this miniseries either spawns a direct sequel, or has elements that will carry over into a new Legion of Super-Heroes book.

Orlando is creating a really fun series here, and now that all the groundwork has been laid, I expect the last two issues to go through the roof.

And with each issue, there are more and more little teases towards the world of the Legion. I kind of wish there were more teases about the world of Kamandi, but that is in the past for these characters. Still, I admit I longed to see Prince Tuftan in the ring.

But really, either way works for me. I would enjoy reading more adventures with these characters, or I could happily view this as a chapter in the future history of the DC universe, since it has turned out to be a vital part of that.

Had this only been a one shot I would have been content with it. As a six issue miniseries, I am bursting at the seams for the next issue to come out.

Although of course it would help to have a familiarity with the Fourth World stories to fully appreciate this miniseries, I believe the strength of the characterization, and the enjoyable execution of the art and story, would make this an entertaining book for those who had never experienced the Female Furies before.

This book really is a must read. Pick it up if you arent already doing so.

Whether she does or not, this remains an excellent companion piece to Tom Kings Mister Miracle miniseries, and a book that is eminently readable on its own merits.

So if you feel threatened by the idea of strong women fighting against oppression, then this is not the book for you. I dont know what is. Nor do I care. For anyone who enjoys well told and well illustrated comics, ones with something to say, and a real flair for how to say it, Female Furies is a winner.

This miniseries proved to be so much better than I was expecting. So much better than it needed to be. If there were a literary equivalent, I would be giving Castellucci and Melo a standing ovation.

I feel fairly confident asserting that anyone who reads this annual will feel compelled to pick up the Flash War. How could anyone resist?

Without giving the ending away, I will state that it makes me fairly certain that the next issue will be vastly more interesting than this one.

There are a couple of good twists in the story, pertaining to Dr. Carver of S.T.A.R. Labs, and to the Flash himself. The final page is, once again, one that I cannot really talk about. But it uses a standard line from the strip in a strong and effective way.

What is really shocking, and heart breaking, is the revelation of Godspeeds identity. I never do spoilers, and I am being careful not to reveal too much. But its a worthy revelation, one that Williamson spent time building up, so it pays off very effectively.

Some new elements are explored with the speed force. Godspeed has some horrifying notions on how it can be used to extract information, while the Flash understands more about how it got spread among so many people in Central City, and how it is trying to pull itself back together.

But I would have to say its Wally West who winds up running away with the issue. He finally gets a Kid Flash costume, and it looks great. We also learn a bit more about what motivates Wally. The first Wally West had idolized the Flash, and so was eager to jump into the sidekick role. This Wally has a different hero to emulate, though the end result is much the same.

The tale closes with a wonderful tease. Spoiler worthy, so I wont say anything.

And it is that question of hope that makes me think this is part of the bigger picture, part of Rebirth. The Shade has lost something, and I think part of what he lost was Jay Garrick. And after all, whose helmet was seen at the end of the previous issue? Is the return of the classic JSA imminent?

It turns out that while the Shade really intended to live happily ever after with his new love, the thirst for the criminal life was too much for him to give up. The shadows that the Shade had controlled for so long began to take a life of their own, and took Hope away from him. The shadows also grab Iris West, and by the end of the issue Williamson has laid the groundwork for what looks to be an exciting battle in the following issue.

Gianfelice does a very good job with the art on the story. I really like how he draws Kid Flash, and his shadow realm stuff is also very effective.

Its been a strong first few months for the Flash rebirth, and the conclusion of this issue assures me that things are about to get even better.

When the Rogues are around, you know that the reader is in for a lot of twists and surprises, and this story looks to fill that bill quite nicely.

Fun and fast paced, and leaves you ready for the next issue.

A number of other Flash villains have cameos as the story comes to a close in Iron Heights. The Rogues may be defeated, but the Flashs words to Captain Cold prove to have inspired a new direction for Len Snart.

Im probably wrong. I almost always am on these kinds of mysteries. But thats my guess.

This is not only a book I truly enjoyed reading in pure fanboy style, this is a book that looks to be one I can be proud of as well.

The focus on action means there is a lack of development. As I said, that does not bother me, I trust the story, but it does mean that I preferred the first issue to this one. But all that really means is that one shouldnt dive in with issue 2. Start with issue 1. Now. Go do it. Im serious.

Its quite the tightrope to cross. I am so very pleased to be able to say that, three issues in, this book is not merely walking across that rope, its jumping and dancing and making it look like the easiest thing in the world. And there is nothing more difficult than that.

On a personal note, I wouldnt mind finding out more about Canada in this reality. Or, for that matter, more of the rest of the world in general. I suppose that will have to wait, though. The team has enough on their plate to deal with in this miniseries.

For that matter, so is the big villain we are introduced to, although in a different sort of way. I wont spoil that surprise, so just go buy the issue now.

Hard to believe this book is already halfway through its run. I am certain that another six issues will not exhaust the potential this series has. So there will have to be another miniseries afterwards. Or an ongoing series. Or a movie. That would be good, too.

Frankly, I wasnt expecting anything quite so good out of this issue. It was a pleasant surprise, and thats always something nice to be able to say.

A complex, nuanced Green Arrow in a city that serves as a microcosm of Trumpland could prove to be a brilliant and effective springboard. I certainly hope the book lives up to this promise.

The Flash and Green Arrow do find a balance and work together by the end of the issue, and another major guest star is broadly hinted at for the following chapter.

Although Metal is just getting started, the Gotham Resistance story arc has been a well told crossover within the larger tale, and the high point so far, in my eyes.

I felt such satisfaction when the story was over, I was ready to applaud, buy some popcorn, and come back for another showing.

Marcio Takara does the art on this issue, and it is perfectly suited to the tale. Grim and gritty, Green Arrow is placed into a wasteland of ruins, and all of the characters look like they have seen better days. One can feel the dirt and sweat on all of the characters.

Now normally, that would not bode well, implying a really clean and easy resolution to the tale. But that is not what gets delivered. Yes, things do work out better than I expected them to. And the resolution is clean, in that the story comes to a very clear ending. But the larger issues, those of the way people wind up pawns in power games of major forces that simply want to exploit them, are not shunted off to the side, and are integral to the way the tale plays out.

But what the heck, this issue looks so damn good that it is worth picking up, even if the following issues dont pan out the way I would like.

This issue manages to do both, to provide a fully entertaining comic book adventure, while at the same time dealing with some larger ideas, and not giving simple solutions to them.

A solid story, building to a very good tease for the next issue.

A very good story, well told, with dynamic and engaging art.

While on the one hand it feels strange to recommend a story that is bound to make the reader miserable, the quality of it cannot be disregarded.

This is solid storytelling with strong visuals. A down to earth, yet fulling engaging, issue.

But given everything the Bensons have done with the series, my expectations going forward are very high.

But thats the one and only thing I can complain about with this story, and I fully admit to it being a niggly fanboy thing. So for everyone else who isnt such a nerd about things, you should have a ball reading it.

The issue even comes with a good twist ending, setting up what will almost certainly be another fight to rip your heart out in issue 50.

Its only a matter of time before Oliver Queen gets another book. I hope its as strong as the last few issues of this run have been.

The family dynamics in the annual really give the story its impact, while Air Wave helps out in the action parts, as he and Hal try to get them all back to reality, from the weird zone they find themselves in.

Its a great feeling when one is able to recommend a work for its ideology, as well as its entertainment value. House of Whispers is definitely worth a visit.

Back on Earth, the changing status of the House of Whispers has had some major detrimental affects on those who were worshippers of Erzulie, and even though these are not significant characters, its great to see the larger effects spreading.

So while not on par with the first two issues, this issue is still rewarding and entertaining.

So although this issue did not quite grab me the way that I had hoped it would, I still found it an entertaining read, and am still fully engaged with the book as a whole.

But I trust this book, and am willing to take the journey that Hopkinson and Stanton are taking me on.

This series is powerful, and the imagery really stays with one afterwards. And even though I always get the feeling that I am missing something, all that does is make me go back and read it again.

I hesitate to use an overworked phrase, but this issue really would be a perfect jumping on point, a well executed tale that is bound to make one want to pick up the next issue.

Clever, engaging, and sometimes downright scary, House of Whispers once again delivers.

Art-wise, I guess I would have to admit that this issue is a tiny step down. A very tiny step. I say that only because no single page or panel really stood out and grabbed me. I have come to expect some very dynamic visuals in this book. Yes, it still blends realism and fantastical art exceptionally well. There is not one page that isnt of high quality. But Stanton has already set a very high bar with the art on this book. I really cant complain if it doesnt surpass itself.

As I said, there is a big event in this, a spoiler I wont spoil, which leaves me eagerly awaiting the next issue.

It took a while for this series to get its bearings. Or perhaps I should say, it took me a while to get this series bearings. But now Ive caught its tide, and am happily sailing away with it.

It's very much a first chapter, with the situation introduced, but nothing resolved. And like the Rebirth issue, which re-introduced the League, it left me feeling that this story could well wind up being interesting, but at the moment, its going through its paces. Adequate, but not gripping.

It takes a while to completely crush my expectations, but already I am hoping that the second story arc for the new Justice League series will be better than this first one. Im not sure how many issues this first arc will run. The fewer the better.

Its still just another middle chapter to the tale, with nothing resolved by the end. But Hitch seems to have more fun with the story, now that he is past the introductions and set-ups. The villains still arent that exciting, but the tale is fast paced, and a heart is given to the tale in the scenes with Superman, Lois and their son.

Cyborg gets some great visuals, and proves to be of more importance than expected in the cliffhanger. No worries about me spoiling the scene. Its really not very clear what is happening, or being revealed. But it does look excellent.

Still, in time perhaps I will come to view this storyline more fondly. There are a few hints that it is part of the bigger picture, part of Rebirth in some way. And the teaser about The Forever Crisis excited me in a way that nothing else in this story did.

The shadowy beings that the League battles at the top of this issue bear some slight resemblance to the Anti-Monitors shadow demons. Although that might simply be because they are basically shapeless, and black in colour, so there is little to define them. But Rebirth is tugging away at my brain just enough to be looking for a connection.

A top notch re-introduction to the character, and a great sidebar to Justice League vs Suicide Squad. And, as I said, the most readable issue of Justice League since Rebirth began.

Some great, and revolting, art by Scot Eaton and Wayne Faucher helps make this a tie-in completely worthy of being a part of the excellent miniseries.

Which each issue of this book I find the dialogue flat, and the pacing tedious. And its just not getting better.

But thats it. Thats the one and only scene in this issue that appeals to me at all.

And Ive cracked 200 words on this. I could end the review, or I could talk more about how much I loved Infinity, Inc. Remember that great Crisis issue with Helix where the border of the pages was done like a Monopoly game? Good times.

The only moment in this issue that sparked me at all was the death of one of the kids from the future, the ones who I thought might be a reworking of Infinity, Inc. As the person dies, they say that nobody knows what they are doing. Yup. That is true indeed. I have no idea. The accuracy made me laugh, but not in a good way. I also dont really care.

As has become the pattern, the story ends with the Leaguers receiving a warning about something big and reality shattering that is about to come. Even the team members themselves point out that they have heard this before, quite a few times. That threat has lost its potency, simply by being stated too many times over the past year. But still, this two parter is easily my favourite storyline in this book so far.

Yes, the Justice League are in this issue, and everyone gets an opportunity to do something, but Mera is the unquestioned star of the show. The events in the story allow the Justice League to learn what has happened to their former partner, and decide how to go forward without him.

I was, frankly, glad to read that Hitchs run on Justice League is coming to an end. The presence of the Infinity Building in this story indicates that he has been working to some master plan, some over-arching storyline which is about to come to a conclusion. What distresses me are the hints that Hitch will be helming a new Justice Society series.

This issue also confirms to me that Hitch is playing off the All-Star Squadron tale that introduced Infinity, Inc. a few decades ago (geez, was it really that long?) Could these kids be a new incarnation of that team? Last issue the thought made me cringe. After this issue, I found myself hoping that would be the case.

There is a strong twist at the end. Not really a twist, the groundwork for it is well laid. But it still bodes for a dramatic next issue. And I am just so glad to finally be enjoying this book.

I cant say this issue is as good as the previous two, but its still miles above what had come before this storyline, and continues to bode well for the remainder of it.

But the big reveal does mean that I am looking forward to the next issue, and this still is the best storyline from the book, by far.

In the end, Hitchs run feels like a lot of build up to nothing. It bothers me that I have been saying that about so many of his issues along the way. I kept trusting that it would all pay off really well. And as legacy got going, I actually thought it would.

The resolution, and the twist that accompanies it, and both fulfilling. And overall I enjoyed this arc, aside from the red lettering. While the main Metal series has me alternately loving and hating what they are doing, the side storylines have been very well crafted to play within the larger arc, and I am tending to enjoy those more.

So I am crossing my fingers and hoping for the best.

After a couple of years of slogging through this book, I am so glad to finally be able to genuinely enjoy it.

Overall I am enjoying this story, although it feels like it could be a bit clearer. On the other hand, I feel fairly confident that Priest will explain all as the tale goes on.

As much as I enjoyed the art and some of the moments, the issue as a whole just came off choppy and incomplete.

So if, when you are reading this, you find the same problem that I did, just push on. One weakness does not pull this tale down.

Politics seems to have become a dirty word in comic books. It shouldnt be. As with any medium, powerful stories, commenting on contemporary issues, can be told as enjoyable, wild romps. Priest is doing that with his run on Justice League, and doing it well.

So while there is nothing in this issue that actually pissed me off or turned me against the book, there was also very little that really excited and engaged me. Priest has lead me to expect more from his work.

But judging this issue based on what is in front of me, it does come off as one of the weaker endings to a Justice League run. Thats quite a shame, really. The most exciting page, for me, was the final one, which brings together the new incarnation of the team, and announces the No Justice miniseries.

While some elements of the plot do get resolved, this is more of a midway point. Or a turning point. The story is clearly nowhere near over, but after this annual, a new direction has emerged, and the situation has changed for good.

Snyder, Cheung and Morales seem to want to bring back popular elements from previous Leagues.

The existence of the other new Leagues is slightly referenced, enough that it is clear that there will be some overlap between the books, and I suppose between the League and the Titans as well, given the events of the Titans Special. That takes co-ordinating to pull off effectively, but the payouts can be great when it works.

While I really did enjoy Steve Orlandos time on the League, this is the best the book has been since before the New 52.

Thats not a bad thing, and the art does make the most of it. The tale ends with a particularly eerie illustration by Jimenez. The colouring, by Alejandro Sanchez, is critical for pulling off the mood of the finale.

I am so glad that I can just rave about Justice League, without any qualifications or doubts.

The best super hero stories have the good guys overcoming overwhelming odds. And I had to admit, that is the situation they face right now.

But that is far outweighed by all the good things in this issue, in this storyline. And the excitement I feel about upcoming issues, and the explanation of who their mysterious visitor will turn out to be.

Mikel Janins art is very interesting. That sounds like a hedged compliment, but I mean it in a positive way. On the one hand, it feels very precise and restrained. But that quality simply serves to highlight the moments when it becomes extreme. The evil Batmans tongue scene, for example, and the great use of changing camera angles when Cheetah is in pursuit.

In a way, this issue is a pause in the larger storyline. But that is hardly a negative. The latest issue is just as much fun, and just as much of an exploration of the League, as the most action packed tale could be.

A good issue, but more of an Aquaman lead-in than a Justice League adventure.

An excellent chapter all around, doubly so for advancing two different story arcs at the same time.

I have consistently been impressed with this new volume of Justice League. Drowned Earth was handled very well, and having a Legion of Doom issue before turning the book back over to the titular team was a very good idea. It immerses the reader back into the main storyline, and gets us all revved up for where the story is going to go next.

Even though this issue is a bit low on action and big on talk, it was entirely compelling, and I found myself just breezing through it.

The main story should be feeling as if it is dragging, or has been abandoned. The major plot threads should feel as if they are getting in the way of the overall arc. But none of that is happening. I'd tip my hat (if I wore one) to the skilled plotting of Snyder and Tynion.

Still, the issue is definitely worth reading, if only so that you can get your own take on this conundrum.

As much as I hate the phrase, I have to admit this is a perfect jumping on point for new readers. You will get all you need to know about what has been taking place in the book, and be ready for the clearly major events that are about to unfold.

But even if I am, the possibility enlivened a run of the mill story into something that piqued my interest.

Its a bit of a low key story, and gently paced. That makes the resolution all the more effective.

This is an extremely promising first issue, one that made me genuinely excited for the run.

Things are still getting started in this book, but everything indicates that Tynion has put a lot of thought into the characters he is going to use, and how to most effectively play with them.

Though the story does reach a resolution, there is a lot of groundwork that has been laid in these first three issues, an awful lot to explore and develop. I really hope this book is enough of a success to see the concepts get mined to their fullest extent.

A great build up for the Witching Hour, expanding the cast, increasing the stakes in the situation, and leading strongly into the next chapter.

Issue 5 marks five great issues in a row for this book. And it looks like the next one will be just as good.

This is such a well crafted book. The characters are interesting and distinctive, and the book has done an impressive job of balancing the cast and the wide selection of guest stars so far.

While I am finding Justice League Odyssey intriguing, and Justice League a heck of a lot of fun, both books are blown out of the water by Justice League Dark.

This is, by far, the best magic team book that DC has released. And I was a big fan of Shadowpact, so thats saying something.

Its clever, funny, makes the most of its concept, and is a damn good read. What more could you want from a book?

This is darn close to pushing out Shadowpact as my favourite DC magic team. All it has to do is conclude this first big storyline with a solid finale.

Every single month this series turns out well crafted, intelligent, disturbing, and hugely entertaining stories. Its a genuine pleasure to review it, which is not something I can say about every book that I cover.

This book just keeps topping my charts month after month. It can do no wrong.

I loved the first year of this series, it far exceeded my expectations. So I have little doubt the promise made my this issue will be excitingly fulfilled as the year goes on.

A good finale, and a good overall purpose to the crossover storyline, one which opens new doorways for both Wonder Woman and Justice League Dark.

If one is not a fan of Lobo, this issue could be skipped, I suppose. I honestly wasnt really looking forward to reviewing it, but I found myself enjoying the tale more than I expected to, which is never a bad thing.

Orlando brings the issue to a strong finish, a great teaser than guarantees the reader will have to pick up the following issue. With only one regular issue and the Rebirth special under its belt, Justice League of America has already blown the other Justice League book out of the water.

So while this may not provide the sheer delight that those two previous chapters did, it remains a solid, well-told issue, which wets the appetite for what it to come.

The scene between the Ray and Dreamslayer is also quite interesting. I have always found Dreamslayer the most interesting of the Extremists, and this incarnation carries that on. His motivations do not precisely line up with those of Lord Havok, but will that make Dreamslayer an asset to the League, or a greater danger to come?

Finally, I was both surprised and delighted by the return of someone. Didnt expect that at all. And of course, I wont spoil it.

And the villain himself is entertainingly introduced. We only get a bit of sense of the character, but the mythologically themed weaponry he is having produced certainly bodes well for the rest of the story arc. I can hardly wait to see it in action.

The solution to the towns economic problems, the root of the troubles in this storyline, also seemed a little too quick and easy. The benevolence of millionaires is hardly something to base an economy on, as the current world situation so clearly demonstrates.

The rest of the team get only small parts in the issue, though all of those are quite good. Black Canary not only gets stuck in a bar brawl with Lobo, as he fights against a version of Mr. Scarlet that looks a lot meaner than the Fawcett character originally bearing that name, but also gets a decent discussion about relationships with Killer Frost towards the end of the issue.

The story comes to a strong and effective ending, and I have the sense that I will enjoy what is coming up in this storyline far more than this opening chapter. And, you know, thats not a bad thing at all.

Would Makson, who is not a being with some major super powers, really be able to go toe to toe with the League for as long as he does? He is, basically, Tarzan. As savage and intent as he is in the fight scene, I found it difficult to credit that the League would not have taken this guy down in a panel or two, unless there was some distraction, someone weakening them, magic, 5th dimensional imps, or SOME form of explanation to balance the wildly divergent power level.

The best I can say for the issue is that I hope the next one is stronger.

The finale is enough of a tease that I have faith in the remainder of the storyline, that Orlando will deliver some more interesting twists and turns along the way. But I have to admit, with Reis executing the art, I wont even mind if he doesnt.

Black Canary and the Ray stay back on Earth, and have a scene that sets up what will likely be the next story arc. They briefly discuss the Rays personal issues. Thats certainly nothing new for this book. The pairing of Ray and Black Canary did bring to mind that brief period in the 90s when different incarnations of the two characters had a fling. Whether or not the scene was intended to do that, it did make me reflect on how much things have changed, and improved, in the way both of them are now written.

Ray Palmer does finally show up, in his classic uniform, on the final page. This time its not a decoy tease, as it had been a couple of issues earlier.

The one thing that really really does not work for me is the final page. Without any spoilers, some characters are left looking at something that really shocks them. What are they looking at? Well, I guess we will find out next issue. I definitely would have preferred a stronger ending that a group of stunned looking people, who can see something that I cannot.

When the story is all over, and one can read it all as a single tale (or as a collected edition) I suspect that the problems I am feeling with this issue will be negated. But having to review this specific issue on its own merit, it just doesnt hit the mark for me.

I know a number of people really didnt care for this storyline. I can understand that, it did drag at times, but now that the overall purpose behind it is clear, I feel it was time well spent. Ryan Choi proved worthy of adopting the role of the Atom, and considering that Ray Palmer is not returning in any active capacity, the length of this tale gave the readers time to see what his life has become.

I always enjoy well crafted tales that tear a team asunder. They can play so effectively with the varying personalities of the members, and allow for some character development that works into the plot, when done right. And here, it is done right. Of all the characters to freak out and bolt, the Ray was the one I thought least likely, so it was all the more powerful to see him lose it.

The team is definitely struggling at this point, now that Batman has ditched them. The Prometheus arc is perfectly suited to exploit this, catching the team at their weakest and least cohesive.

Now that we are further into the run, it is clear to see how Orlando has been weaving his webs, laying in plot threads whose purpose only becomes clear later on. Thats the kind of storytelling that can take a while to pay off, but comes with so much more satisfaction when it does.

Its so hard not to talk about the character that shows up on the last page. Not someone I ever expected to see in a Justice League story, seriously. Even more exciting are the other guest stars implied to be in the next issue. I knew this was a fun story, but had no idea just what treats Orlando had waiting in the wings!

I did enjoy this issue, I just expected more from it.

More than anything, I was glad that this story served to weave together everything Orlando had been crafting in this book.

While this may not be the most action packed or dramatic issue of Justice League of America, it does read extremely well for the sincerity of the character exploration.

I would have liked to have enjoyed this story, but it made so little impression on me, its not even worth disliking.

I wish the bulk of the League were given more to do, but its still a darn good Atom vs Chronos tale.

One can only really feel disappointment in a story when it comes so close to being really good. I have enjoyed the line-up, the storytelling, most of the villains, and the art on this run of Justice League of America. But the brevity of the run prevented this book from being all that it might have been.

This has been so well constructed, a great grouping of old and new Leaguers, set up through an excellent miniseries and some very good one shots. Id wager money that DC has a winner with this book.

Although this one shot is just meant as a re-introduction before the Ray joins the Atom and Vixen in a new JLA, it really made me hope he will once again get his own book. Especially with Orlando and Byrne at the helm.

Another group of villains gets assembled at the end of the issue. All major players, from a variety of different books, and people not really seen since Flashpoint. Im not sure where all the cards will land, but even from this starting point it is clear that this miniseries will be intimately connected to Rebirth as it plays out.

The one and only caveat I have is that Amanda Waller is looking a bit too svelte, especially on the last page. Rebirth brought back the heavy woman we all knew and loved/hated. Please dont make her a Barbie doll again.

The moment that struck me the most, though, was Supermans reaction, when Amanda Waller reveals that Maxwell Lord is the one they need to be dealing with. There can be no doubt, from the intensity of his expression, that in this reality Max took control of Superman, the way he did back in Sacrifice storyline.

Suffice it to say that, as many great fight scenes as this miniseries has already hosted, next issue promises to top them.

Most of the rest of the League are the pawns of Lord and Eclipso by this point. Batman is safe, with the other members of the Suicide Squad, and Cyborgs artificial side is able to withstand Eclipsos possession, long enough for him to lay out the situation to the few remaining who can take action to stop it.

And we find out who was really behind everything. Who masterminded all the events of this series, and who benefits from it. That I will leave unspoiled. Its far too good.

Francis Manapul and Marcus To have to be commended for the art, which demands that they render a wide variety of characters, and the pair pull this off exceptionally well. For all the chaos, there are very strong, emotional visuals that really impact one.

A hugely enjoyable issue.

In brief, I found No Justice to be everything I wanted it to be.

Although it is far too soon to tell what this book will become, I am already longing for Hawkman and/or Adam Strange, two characters will long histories with the League, and the outer space backgrounds to make them fit in here. Aside from that problem, I did enjoy this first issue a lot.

But right now, the first two issues have given me every reason to believe that Williamson and Sejic are up to the task they have set themselves.

The plot is tight, the characterization effective, and the art is really engaging. I have high expectations for this series now that we are three issues in, higher than I had before it began.

I still do recommend the series, and I still and looking forward to where it will go. I just didnt care for this chapter too much.

Without his art, I suspect my problems with the storyline would be much greater. So its a darn good thing his visuals make this fun.

As always, I maintain hope that this book will get better. I always want to like the Justice League titles. But right now, I am not.

I am glad DC didnt just kill the book. It always had potential, and appears to be significant in the overall Source Wall plot. Its the kind of book I want to enjoy, and so Im more than willing to give it another shot.

The art is good, particularly on the battle scenes, as Blackfire leads the forces of Tamaran and Azrael-world against Darkseid and his new allies.

I always want to enjoy Justice League books. I am so glad to finally be enjoying this one.

Im very glad that Abnett was able to get this book back onto the rails, and do so without discarding the work that had been done before he took over. He has risen to the challenge, and made this an enjoyable book again.

So from being about to give up on this book entirely, I find myself once again fully engaged, and eager to see what will happen next. And geez, the book hasnt even been around one full year yet. Thats quite the ride!

But something left me a little blah by the end of it. Perhaps it was simply that it spent its time making sure all the bases were touched, and setting up a forthcoming storyline, rather than being intrinsically exciting. Thats why I view it more like a 0 issue than a first issue.

This first issue contains the first two chapters, so we get one cliffhanger set up by Didio and Kirby, and then the resolution by Dan Abnett and Dale Eaglesham. Giffen is great at creating art that is evocative of Kirby, and while Eaglesham doesnt even try to go that route, his renderings of Kamandi and the tigers is just beautiful.

I love the almost random use of the Manhunters towards the end of the story. This miniseries is a big DC playground.

The Kamandi Challenge is definitely coming together much better than the first DC Challenge did, back in the 80s. Keeping the focus on Kamandi, and allowing the different teams to explore his world makes this a more centred experience, and all the more fun for it.

Perhaps I am being silly. As I write this review, and look back over the issue, I realize that, had that one character been given a different name, I would be writing another over the top, oh my gosh I love this Kamandi is the greatest thing ever review, as I am prone to do.

And, you know, once you have the audience smiling and enjoying the tale, its so much easier to cut their heart out.

Particularly towards the climax of the issue, when Mishkingrad rises, it just doesnt look very good to me. I was disappointed, much as I hate to admit that. And the cliffhanger to close out the issue didnt quite feel on par, either. A shame, because the start and middle of this issue were really fun.

There is a solid cliffhanger to close out the issue. Indeed, there is really nothing I can find to criticize in this story. But sadly, there is also nothing that really kicks it above what has come before. I guess thats a bit of a problem when there have been so many excellent issues in this Challenge already.

There is one touch that feels odd, given the earlier issues, a page that visually recaps a number of adventures from the original comic. By and large, this series has presented a story completely independent of that one, right down to the way Renzi was used and introduced. The flashback page in this issue is difficult to reconcile with this, but I suppose such problems could be expected when a different creative team executes each chapter.

Tom King is rapidly becoming one of my favourite writers, from his work on Batman and Mister Miracle. This issue of Kamandi Challenge just increases my admiration of his talent. While I cannot say that I enjoyed the story, its far too heavy and dark for that, I certainly admired and appreciated it, and it will likely stay in my head much longer than the other issues of this book.

Ah well, I guess the upside is that next issue will have a brand new team, and I can just ignore this one.

Even though Kamandi is left in yet another cliffhanger that it seems impossible to survive, I have hopes that the final issue of this book will resolve the mystery of his parents. Williams does lay some groundwork that could be developed along those lines, but one never knows which elements the next writer will choose to pick up.

OK, so, knowing all that, there is a small chance you will find the conclusion of Kamandi Challenge more interesting. But I cant guarantee you will like it.

There is a vast amount of potential here, and I am really excited to see how it gets developed.

Its already been leaked that Robin will be joining the Legion, and the moment Superboy learns that there is a Planet Gotham in this future era, its easy to see how this is going to come about. Thankfully, this plot thread develops quickly, rather than being dragged out to its obvious conclusion.

Plus, it helps that I am really enjoying this story as it unfolds. I like Cosmic Boy's apparent unfitness for the leadership, the details about Dawnstar, and Mordru's schemes. Crav Nah is just the icing on the cake.

Believe me, if you have never read either of these much reprinted tales, The Rocket Lanes of Tomorrow and The World of Thinking Machines are alone worth picking up this volume for.

The Young Animals books definitely deserve to be given a chance, or a second chance. The Milk Wars succeeded in creating a really fun story that will, hopefully, pay off with increased readership.

There is a lot of meta stuff in this, which works exceptionally well. I love the discussion on how the archetypes of Wonder Woman and Batman are more universal, and thus more malleable, than that of Superman, who has repeatedly proved resilient to change.

The world has become a darker and more dangerous place since the US elected a misogynist Nazi and his homophobic Bible thumping veep. They want to shove their white milk culture down our throats. We all need a Shade, the Changing Girl to remind us we need to stand up for ourselves, and not just passively become Wonder Wives.

Whether I am right or wrong, I really dont even care. This is a truly wonderful book, brilliant in both art and story.

Its a credit to him, and to the wonderful artwork by Gerards, that despite this sense of disappointment I still enjoyed the final issue, and am committed to coming to a greater understanding of the entire series.

I believe in this book 100%. The creative team have a solid grasp on the character. If Naomi is this interesting when nothing much is happening, it will be amazing once things get going.

So its kind of hard to gauge this right now. I am enjoying the book, but that could all turn sour, depending on what next issue has to tell us.

Big revelations are clearly still to come, but the picture is getting clearer.

Next issue promises a conclusion to Naomis introductory story. I didnt have very high expectations for the book when it began, but now I find myself eagerly awaiting the resolution.

I really didnt expect very much from this miniseries when it launched. I certainly didnt expect to grow to care about the character, and be eager for her return. The fact that I am is clear evidence that Bendis and company have achieved their goal.

Dont get me wrong, both of these stories were enjoyable enough reads, and in both cases there is some really great art to help them along. If one was not familiar with Orion or the New Gods, this issue would serve as a functional introduction. Its just not quite special enough for me.

All in all, this is an impressive collection. The Batman and Zatanna stories are both so good that they are worth the cost of picking it up.

Its the second chapter of a larger story, which means that there are some explanations, and some set-ups. A fair bit of action, and Nightwing does get to be the one to discover that there will be four monsters in total. But for me, it was Spoiler, and Gotham Girl, who stole the show.

All in all, this story arc has avoided the problems that often plague the crossover Batman tales, of having too many tie in issues, so the story just keeps moving sideways, instead of forwards. Each issue of this series so far has directly advanced the plot, which is clearly approaching a resolution.

A dark but fun story, totally worth picking up, even if this is your first exposure to the character.

I suppose the Christian stuff is there as a counterbalance to Ravens quasi-satanic nature. But Trigon is not meant to be Lucifer, and Raven is the daughter of a demon, not of the devil. For me, at least, it just adds to the factors in this book that are pushing me away from it.

At its best, the Milligan series used Shade, The Changing Man to explore notions of identity. Castelucci seems inclined in the same direction with this series. Its a great start, and I am eager to see where the creative team goes with it.

A solid second issue, if not as gripping as the first.

I havent really mentioned this in previous reviews, but each issue has been ending with a short story featuring relatively obscure old DC characters. This one has a particularly clever Dial H for Hero story appended at the back. I have to admit, as much as I enjoyed the lead story, the Dial H made far more of an impression on me, the limiting choice of letters making the story all the more powerful.

Marley Zarcone does some very nice work with the art, and I quite liked how the Meta-spots wind up resembling vinyl albums in the one panel that features the girl's turntable. Im just not certain how many more issues I will enjoy.

The last couple of pages show us an episode of Life with Honey, a tv show that Shade enjoys watching. Its mildly amusing, but nothing memorable.

Perhaps the agents from Meta will show up and keep the action going. This book is far better when its not completely insular.

Perhaps the origin story of Shade, the Changing Girl, the delightful bucket list of her dreams, and her dramatic choice of action at the conclusion of the tale, would be reprehensible to those who pride themselves on the pure white nature of their Christian fascism, but for me, this was the best issue so far, and a sign of great things to come for this book.

Now its not like she moves on before the end of the issue. Shade will be in Gotham for a while longer, so maybe she will reach Arkham sooner or later.

The subplots with her friends back home, and the pursuit of her by the authorities on Meta, both continue, but are very much secondary in this issue. Thats fine. Its really well balanced, giving one a complete story within a larger story within the larger overall framework.

A few issues back I was having serious concerns about this book. I am so very pleased with the direction it has taken. Its both fun and powerful, and living up to its potential. Much like the hero herself.

More fun is added to the issue with a couple of pages of cut outs, for dressing up Shade and Honey. Not that I would ever actually cut apart a comic book. But I still very much enjoy the concept, and its execution.

With the current issue, I can state without any qualification that Shade, the Changing Girl has become a worthy successor to the great Milligan series.

It really comes down to this. If you liked Shade, the Changing Girl, you will love Shade, the Changing Woman. If you hadnt read the first series, you ought to, and may as well start picking this one up.

Shade, the Changing Woman will not be a book for everyones tastes. But it isnt trying to be. The bravura storytelling is its own reward.

Some of the images from this issue really resonated with me. Seeing Shade as a heartless scarecrow will probably stay with me forever.

Its only four issues in, but Shade, the Changing Woman is already a reliable and powerful read.

So geez, stop reading my review and just buy this already.

And although I am sad that the series was so brief, it told a tight and powerful story, and lasted exactly as long as it needed to. Bravo.

I will admit that some of the deaths in this issue hit hard, taking out villains that I had loved, and who I still feel have potential. But overall this is just bloody swamp soaked fun, with Waller at her coldest and most manipulative.

It's also worth noting that the back-up story features operatives of Kobra, a recurring opponent of the Suicide Squad, and seems to be laying the groundwork for that villain to return in this run. At least, I hope that is the plan.

Only one detail sounds believable to her, and its the one detail that harmonizes with the established origin of the character. Seeing the very young Digger Harkness sitting in the dusty street of his small outback town, carving boomerangs and hoping his missing father will one day come back. Reis makes this panel just heart breaking. Too much of it would have made the story sappy, but as it is, its the perfect note to contrast with the rest of the tale.

Katana has never been one of my favourite characters, and though I have read a couple tellings of the death of her husband, and how she claimed the sword that now holds his soul, it had never really moved me. Maybe Im just a cold hearted bastard. This telling of it I found far more engaging and emotional than earlier ones I had read, and it concludes with a decent tease at a bigger picture.

Its a much more serious and intense portrayal of Harley than usually appears in this book. Or her own book. Her boundaries and her loyalties are not always the clearest, but as this story proves, that is part of what makes her such a compelling character.

The Croc back-up story continues the high quality of these pieces. Amanda tells Croc information she has learned about his past. While Croc likes to play the mindless beast, Amanda knows he is not, and we get a tragic tale from his childhood. The piece does not get maudlin or try to tug the heartstrings, and succeeds all the more for that.

Now named Caitlin Snow, to match the character from the Flash tv series, Killer Frost is the latest inmate sent to Belle Reve, and the newest recruit for the team. We follow Frost as she enters the prison, gets introduced to the other members of the team, and has her first meeting with Amanda Waller. Its not a bad story in any way, but neither tale in the issue really felt like an introduction to the upcoming crossover. I would have been more pleased with this issue if no mention had been made of the Justice League at all.

The only caveat I have about this issue is the art, which just doesnt feel quite on par with either the normal run of the book, or the current miniseries. But its not bad, not at all. Just a bit of a step down.

And the total downer ending does function exceptionally well as a coda to the miniseries. Amanda Waller always wins. No matter what the cost.

More surprising is Captain Boomerang, partying hard, or trying to. His return from the dead has caused a change in his personality, one that he is not able to control. Try as he might, Boomerang is no longer able to be a crude sleazeball. Its downright tragic.

By the end of the issue, all of the Squad have been questioned about Amanda's death, as all of them are suspects. The conclusion seems to reveal who the killer is, but I am as positive that far more is going on here than it appears.

As for the ending of the issue. It was both a surprise, and something I had expected all along. Suffice it to say, I was very happy, and I believe other readers will be as well.

As always, I long for something a bit more political out of this incarnation of the Squad, but aside from that, I am enjoying it immensely.

Still, as much as I enjoyed this issue, I do continue to bemoan the lack of political commentary in the book. The entire notion of the Squad is so well suited to that kind of thing. With the insane developments emerging daily from the US, turning a blind eye to it all seems downright negligent, if not outright complicit.

The issue feels really fast. I was surprised that I hit the end when I did. Thats not such a bad thing, really. The issue never had a dull moment. And its very clear that this is spinning into something completely out of the Squads control.

Art wise the issue is good. Not great. Edwards does a fine job, and the battle scenes are dynamic. He doesnt seem too strong on faces, though, particularly for characters who are not the main focal point of the panel.

I have to admit, though, that the person chosen as leader was exactly the person I thought it would be, even before reading the story. I felt it was sort of broadcast in the previous issue. And I guess part of the lack of surprise is that the groundwork for it had been laid in earlier stories. Can I rightly criticize an author for making sure that an unusual decision can be backed up by earlier events? I dont think so.

Williams is definitely not on par with this issue. Fortunately Gus Vasquez does a really solid job with the art, particularly in the action scenes on the mission. Gotta love what happens with the airplane. So even if this is a disappointing read, its easy on the eyes.

The story is really just a set up for what is bound to be a nastier conflict in the next issue. I am hoping, or guessing, that Waller is counting on Batman to get her out from under Karlas thumb.

So I really ought to have enjoyed this story more. I wanted to. Was it the art, then, that was the problem? Perhaps it was. I simply didnt feel like I was reading a continuation of the previous issue. It jarred me so much I just never got my grounding enough to have fun.

At least the final page excited me. It was the only page of the issue that did, but it left me with hope for the next storyline.

A surprise cameo closes out the issue, and sets up the finale, in the next issue of Green Arrow. The cameo really was a genuine surprise, and a welcome one, so I wont spoil it for you!

I wish I could heap loads of praise on the art, but I cant. Its good. Mostly. Sometimes very good. But thats about the best I can give it. This book needs a permanent art team.

Perhaps it is simply that, for me, Suicide Squad needs at least a touch of politics. This story, more than most in the current run, has ample opportunity for opening that door. Weve got secret government conspiracies leading back to the 50s. That is ripe territory for political commentary.

The art on this one is ok, but nothing to write home about. I am not sure why there is such difficulty getting a regular art team on this title, and the quality varies widely. True, the mood remains intact despite the change, thats a positive thing. But I long for better visuals.

I wish Eaton had been on board for this entire storyline, but I am glad, at least, that they had a strong artist suited to the strong finale this tale comes to.

The rest of the Squad are shown, but largely from the mans perspective, and only have small roles in the tale. Still, most of them get good moments along the way, and Spurrier looks like he has a good sense of how to handle them.

Still, I was more than pleased with this tale, which had all the deceptive scheming that Suicide Squad requires.

Had the cover been done by a decent human being, I would highly recommend this issue. If you have no problems with Nazis, go for it. But if you do, perhaps you could spend your money better.

A really fun issue, building to a great cliffhanger ending.

A really fun issue, and as dark as a Suicide Squad tale ought to be. Now can we get some political commentary, please? With the US descending into fascist authoritarianism so quickly, it really needs to be addressed, and this is the best book to do so. Ostrander never shied away from it.

The story does seem to go by awfully quickly, though. Seems like we are just getting down to the good stuff when its abruptly over.

I always seem to be complaining about this book. And yet I do enjoy it, and look forward to each issue. I guess its one of those cases in which something is very good, but could be better, and you just keep hoping for it to be perfect.

This issue is, in every way, a worthy successor to Ostrander. Its the Suicide Squad that I have always wanted to read.

All the signs look promising for this to be a tense and exciting storyline.

A really fun issue, setting up a promising one to come.

A strong issue, carrying the story forward, and leaving Batman and Deadshot in quite the cliffhanger.

Astoundingly, this story even comes with a happy ending, a rarity for a Suicide Squad tale. Yet it works, and does so perfectly.

The issue leads directly into the next issue of Aquaman, where the action really gets going. But its a fun start with a good twist at the end.

The stakes just keep mounting in this storyline, and Mera gets a great scene to close out the issue, and lead in to the next Aquaman issue.

This story is, frankly, good enough that it makes me want Boomerang to get his own series, even though I know full well that such a book would not be able to sustain itself. All I can hope for is that there will be another Suicide Squad issue that puts the spotlight on him.

Issue 50 is coming up. That would be the perfect time to make some big changes. So I remain in hope. But its not so tragic, when the stories are fully enjoyable anyway.

So I am more than willing to give this issue a pass, and keep my hopes up for the next one.

Where will the team go from here? I admit, I am worried. This book seems to be a difficult one to write. Williams has set the bar pretty high. It wouldnt surprise me a bit if, a year down the road, I am looking back to these issues as the good old days.

While I treasure John Ostranders version of the team, every incarnation that has come since then has felt like a pale imitation. Taylor is adding something new, taking a different angle, yet maintaining enough of a sense of continuity that this should not push away longtime fans.

The art is not bad at all, the saving grace I suppose, as the strange characters Boomerang has to deal with are well rendered enough to make the story readable. But all I can really say for this first instalment is that I hope Moreci gets a firmer handle on the character as the miniseries goes on.

Compared to the El Diablo story, the Killer Croc one does feel like a bit of a puff piece, although the final page allows the reader to see that more is going on than was readily apparent.

The Amanda Waller story, which begins in this issue, and will conclude in the final issue of the miniseries, deals with Waller as a deprogrammer. This is not a side of her that is often shown, although she operated this way on Blue Beetle in an old issue of Justice League.

All in all, I far preferred this second Most Wanted miniseries. And I am hoping for a third. There is far more to be mined in this vein.

Excellent art on both stories, and I am also quite pleased at the contrast between them. Most Wanted must have had a successful run to warrant this new book, and I am looking forward to seeing how both stories play out.

So even if the Katana story fails to hold my interest in the long run, I have no doubt that the Suicide Squad Black story will easily carry me to the end of the miniseries.

And, as with the previous two issues, the Suicide Squad Black story is so much fun its worth the price of the book alone.

I was giving the comic positive reviews just based on one of the two tales, so I am glad I can now honestly endorse both of them.

Ive said it before, but I would gladly read a regular Suicide Squad Black book, and really hope we get to see this offshoot team again.

Suicide Squad Black Files was definitely a notch above the Most Wanted miniseries. And it left me really longing for Suicide Squad Black to return.

I have loved the Suicide Squad through good incarnations and bad ones. Its far more fun when I can truly enjoy the book. And by the looks of this issue, the new series is one I will be proud to be a fan of.

When I saw the cover of this issue, I really wanted to write a rave review. I am so happy that the story lived up to my high expectations.

I was a bit surprised to see Lois and Clark teaching their son poker, but I suppose a level of deception is a skill that a young super powered child needs to acquire.

The mysterious opening of the previous issue does get explained in this one, and we find out who the big villain will be for this storyline. Kid Amazo has only a thematic connection to his father, but has strong potential as a villain for the young duo.

The subplot with Alfred and Lois Lane is simply the crowing touch. The reminder we need that these are children. As clever and powerful as they may be, they are not meant to be running off for midnight missions without supervision.

This book is so much fun to read it is very easy to ignore how well told it is. That is truly a credit to the creative team.

Superboy does not become a full member of the Teen Titans in this outing, but certainly the ground work gets laid to bring him into that group. And I sure hope that happens!

Jimenez also does a great job rendering the Faceless Hunters, who look far more menacing than they did back in the 60s.

The story leaves open the possibility of return for the young heroes that Robin and Superboy worked with. I have to admit, I dont really care whether they come back or not. They didnt get on my nerves, but there also wasnt a single character among them that really stood out for me.

In less than a year this book has proved itself to be a highly entertaining read, and Tomasi does a superb job with the dialogue for Superboy and Robin. The characters are easy to contrast, that is true, but amidst all the childish sniping he evokes the genuine bond that has formed between the two young heroes.

Although I am not quite sure where this story arc is going, by the end of the issue it becomes apparent that this is a really major story, and I am quite excited to see what develops.

So this doesnt go the way I had thought it would, but I am not at all bothered by that.

Considering that this issue is really just a set-up for the storyline about to start, it reads very well in and of itself. A lot of fun, promising more to come.

The mothers come off well also. Lois Lanes role is nothing out of the ordinary, but Talia gets some interesting development.

A strong and fun story, setting up what looks to be a great finale.

The issue ends with a bit of a surprise, bringing back a dangling plot thread from the New 52 version. Its a bit jarring, but only a little. We will have to wait for the next issue to see how Orlando harmonizes things, but it seems that he has subtly laid the groundwork. Its so hard to talk about this without giving anything away. But I will not use spoilers!

But the middle part of the book pretty much stole the show for me. Cat Grant consumes her part of the story the way her character eats others for breakfast. Making an appearance at Karas high school, she delivers a speech about starting up Cat Co, the media conglomerate she runs on the television show. Once again I really have to credit Orlando. I could almost hear Calista Flockhart delivering these lines of dialogue, particularly when she berates Kara for doubting herself. Once again, Supergirl is dealing with someone who is both a threat and an ally, with good intentions that may not be the best thing for her.

The big battle between Supergirl and her father has plenty of action, but is also really sad, with the failure of good intentions to equal benevolent actions.