Ingrid Lind-Jahn Comic Reviews

Can Jack Rackham and Anne Bonny outwit Governor Rogers, who is determined to kill them both?

Anne Bonny gains a companion " but at what cost to herself?

Is going back to rescue Jack Rackham really worth all the trouble?

Anne's few days of relaxation are about to end in all-out melee!

It's hard to keep a pirate in jail when they have an unexpected ally.

Anne Bonny's tale marks the ending of the age of pirates.

For the opening of the story, Abbott 1979 #1 is gripping and compelling. As soon as we see Elena Abbott, we want to know more about her.

Abbott 1979 #2 not only shows us Elena at her lowest point, but finally, we get a sense of what she is up against. The Umbra symbolizes a time of difficult change in our country, taking that negative energy and creating a personification for it.

Abbott 1979 #3 is a solid read and a dramatic chance for Elena to start taking control again. She is the Lightbringer, but will she be powerful enough to take on the Umbra entirely?

Abbott reconnects with her purpose in life just in time to face the Umbra again!

Abbott 1979 #5 is the finale of this story arc, and it is a grand one. The story covered a lot of ground but did so in a way that feels satisfying and connected, deftly telling a story where the angst of the time resonates strongly with today's world.

Who has the important papers, and who will end up with them?

Adler's archenemy, Ayesha the barbarian Queen, marshals her gang of bad guys.

Adventureman #2 hits all the right notes. Claire and her son Tommy are quirky and close without being saccharine, and the background of 1930's pulp heroes is an irresistible draw. The art is super-fun and the plot is developing at the perfect pace. Now is the perfect time to get hooked on a thrilling tale like this one.

You can purchase this issue via comiXology

Is Adventure Incorporated too thoroughly forgotten, or can Claire Connell breathe new life into it?

Adventureman lives, and the world will never be the same again!

A quiet winter day in the life of the new Adventureman"or is it?

Why are ghosts of the past haunting the present in the middle of winter?

Claire may no longer be alone in the heroing business, and it's a good thing with Ghosts on the loose in the city!

While Chris and Claire get to know each other, the ghosts are hard at work underground.

Johnny Caspar is back, at least as a ghost, and has huge plans for this opportunity.

Adventureman: Ghost Lights #2 is a big story that takes some attention to follow, but at its heart are characters who truly love each other and are willing to take on anything to help a sister out.

Alice has left childhood behind, but still yearns to go to Wonderland, although the price is steep.

Alice Ever After #3 is an unusual book that explores trauma through a lens of Victorian horror. Moments vary from fanciful to thoughtful to outright sinister, and as the pieces start fitting together, it is becoming even more engaging.

Alice thought she would be reaching Wonderland. Instead, her world becomes darker and more dangerous.

At least Alice's sister Edith wonders whether the treatment might be worse than the disease.

Alice is back, but not entirely. As her presence in Wonderland grows, her hold on reality diminishes.

A mysterious encounter in the woods changes their lives in unexpected ways.

Parasitic creatures caught up in war find an unexpected bounty of bodily material in the ruins of Earth.

All Against All #2 is setting up to be the conflict between a lone human against the advanced Operators. But beyond that it takes advantage of the setting to explore humanity from a different perspective as well as pondering the value of scientific research when it is reduced to warfare. This is a terrific story on multiple levels.

The human known as "Helpless may not be as helpless as the Operators believe.

All Against All #4 is a tangled web of survival and empathy. For better or for worse, B'tay has made a connection to Helpless, perhaps at the cost of his own people. But when it comes to life, which is the right choice to make?

Can the human, Helpless, take on General Cov'n who has taken over the enhanced body of the ape, Thumper?

Vin thought his life could not get much worse until he found out about the spiders.

Vin falls deeper into Reynolds world of hunting giant spiders in the city.

Vin considers giving up the spider hunting life, but the spider hunting life will not let him go.

Vin and Reynolds finally find the lair of the biggest spider of them all.

Welcome back to the Gemworld, where things are not quite what Amy expected.

Trying to find out what happened to her kingdom, Amy makes some new friends.

Amethyst #4 is an adventure that is also an allegory for growing up. The stark truths Amy has been holding for years are crumbling around her and she has to rebuild herself and her sense of reality. All the characters face challenges that will test them which makes for a compelling read.

Nothing has been quite what Amy expected on this trip, and the surprises continue.

Hannah turns her life around for the chance to search for her missing father.

Hannah and Dr. Hannah face off against their own worst enemy another Hannah!

Journey into Hannah's past, where we discover that her life was full of mystery even when she was only seven.

Is Hannah some sort of key to unlocking the Fracture?

Symonds is determined to send somewhat into the Fracture while Jerome is determined that this will not be Hannah.

Aquaman Justice League Drowned Earth Special #1 is a thrilling conclusion to the Drowned Earth story arc. There are some great character moments in it, and I really like that this is story where the way to win is not just to punch your way to victory. It's truly heroic to take chances to try to make amends and stop the fighting once and for all. I like the fact that Aquaman's communication powers are totally useful, and I think this is also a good set-up for whatever is coming next for Aquaman. If there's anything I didn't like, it's that it seems like there are so many mystical items in play " the Totality, the Tear of Extinction, Clarion, Poseidon's trident, etc. Mystical items get less special when you have too many of them around.

"The Pure may save lives, but it cost the life of a young miner, and the lives of several guards.

Armorclads #2 is not just the story of a handful of plucky young workers. It is the story of a system that thrives on inequality and may be plagued by corruption. And to complicate matters, the Legionnaires are no friend to anyone.

Lela brings Ironclad workers together for an attempt to rescue Peris.

Armorclads #5 is a solid ending of the story arc. Overall, while there are times when the story drags because there is so much world-building information, it is a satisfying read and I like that it has a strong sense of hope.

Fletcher begins to understand how little he knows of the history of his magic.

Fletcher Arrowsmith has escaped and learns about the mission he is to be a part of.

Arrowsmith #6 may be the end of an arc, but it is not the end of the story. I like that we have slowly learned a lot about the magic in this world and gotten glimpses into the culture. It feels both modern and vintage at the same time, supported by drop-dead gorgeous artwork.

Art Brut #1 is entertaining and it kicks off a weird thriller of a mystery. I enjoy the premise and I like that this book leaves me not sure where it is headed next, which means I am looking forward to finding out.

There is no doubt that Art Brut #2 continues to be an unusual story, but it fascinates. We do not yet see all the connections clearly, but as with a puzzle, the more pieces we can work with, the more we can figure out.

Art Brut #3 not only connects the plot, but it describes a connection many artists have with their art. The pursuit of perfection is not only impossible, it could be dangerous to the artist. But what if this also becomes dangerous to their art?

For an adaptation of a novel, Assassin's Apprentice is ambitious and lives up to its promise. It brings a rich world into vivid life.

Atomic Robo: Dawn of a New Era #1 is definitely one to pick up if you're a fan. If you aren't yet, what are you waiting for? Robo is awesome, and who doesn't like action science? Seriously, this is a quality book. It's always interesting, and this is a fantastic jumping on point.

I've been enjoying that Atomic Robo: Dawn of the New Era #2 really has the feel of a new adventure starting out, and that it begins at a fairly calm and benign baseline. I'm looking forward to see how everything all comes together. This is still a good place to jump on, and Atomic Robo is still one of the books I recommend to basically everyone.

Everything is forging ahead in the best action-science tradition in Atomic Robo: Dawn of a New Era #3. It's a new adventure, but the groundwork has been laid so we feel like this has been bubbling under the surface all along. And who knows what more is going to happen before some of this gets resolved?

Absolutely delightful!

The end of an arc is only the beginning of the further adventures of Atomic Robo!

Auntie Agatha's Home for Wayward Rabbits #1 is not your standard funny animal book. It meanders a little, but it does surprise. It is probably not everyone's cup of tea, but it does have some surreal charm, and leaves you feeling like you don't exactly know what's going on yet.

I have to admit I am still intrigued by Auntie Agatha's Home for Wayward Rabbits #2. It is just such a weird story with unusual characters many of whom, by virtue of their individual pathologies, seem to contribute to the plot almost randomly. While the story of someone trying to swindle the old lady out of her home may not be new, the characters attempting to solve the problems are so troubled themselves that the story gains new and interesting tensions.

It may not be everyone's cup of tea, but it also isn't something everyone has already seen a million times either.

I think that Auntie Agatha's Home for Wayward Rabbits #5 has really settled into the story. We know enough about enough of the rabbits that we care for them, even the annoying ones. I like the weirdness of the bad guys. And I really like that Julie reminds us that she is a girl " really, what can she do against lawyers and such? That touch of realism is refreshing.

Auntie Agatha's Home for Wayward Rabbits #6 may not be everyone's cup of tea, but there is some meat to it. It touches on some serious themes, and it handles some of those better than others, but it has the courage to make the attempt. It has some humor, but it tends to be of a dark variety. It's a bit quirky, to say the least.

Is Kat's return to Comfort Notch a new beginning or a trigger for traumatic memories?

Comfort Notch appears to be better than perfect until a surprising death occurs.

The history of Comfort Notch is revealed, and there really was a Clementine.

Kat finds a strong connection in Carol, but little does she know that connection is soon to be severed.

As summer slips into autumn, is Kat slipping into insanity?

On the night of the Autumnal Equinox, all paths lead into the forest.

While The Autumnal #8 is not an issue to read alone, it is a fantastic close to the story. All the loose ends are tied up, and there is just enough of a twist to catch us. And you will never think of pretty fall colors the same way again.

With a huge number of Jacks headed their way, how can the Big Girls head them off?

Owen's mission to help an old friend escape life as a vampire's thrall leads him a step closer to another mission

Barbaric: Axe to Grind #3 is the end of the story arc, but one that sets up for the next arc. It imparts a lot of history but sets up a deeper conflict. We still do not know much more about Axe beyond his love of blood, but now we can start to wonder about him.

Old friends of Owen's try to help him, both in Hell and back in the normal world.

Regan and Hannah are allies, but Vanessa may be more of a foe than they anticipated.

Hannah is driven toward revenge even as Regan sees how drastic the possible consequences are.

Hannah, Regan, and Vanessa still live, but what does this mean for the cult of the Chimera?

Basilisk #10 is well-crafted and disquieting. It feels as though everyone keeps slipping further into the darker side of their souls all for the sake of the Chimera whom no one fully understands.

As Vanessa recovers her memories of the Five, Regan remembers more how she wants to leave her past behind.

If you have been reading the series, do not miss Basilisk #12. It is thoughtful and gripping and finishes things up with great style and a powerful sense of closure.

Emrys reaches into his past to relate a story of the supernatural set in Japan after WW2.

Emrys and Mullins are on their own, deep in the woods outside of town.

Emrys and Mullins come face to face with the local Guardian Dogs, as well as the Yokai in the area.

Emrys finishes his tale and we learn that actions have consequences, some of which may be unintended.

From strange things in the graveyard to more trouble with the rats, it's never a dull moment.

Horrible things lurk just around the corner in Burden Hill.

Beasts of Burden: Wise Dogs and Eldritch Men #2 is a well-spun tale full of great characters and full of mystery and horror alike.

The action is well paced, and there is enough mystery in the story that I don't feel like I already know the ending.

Beasts of Burden: Wise Dogs and Eldritch Men #4 is a satisfying conclusion. Everything that happens was set up, so while we may be surprised, we aren't hit by something totally out of the blue. Even though the Dogs took some hits, they're still around to fight another day, and they're such great characters.

Bermuda, the terror of Trangle, commits to helping rescue Bobby's sister.

June's quest brings her back to the start, and then she decides to change the rules.

I have a soft spot for kaiju stories, and Big Girls #1 is evocative of this genre. I like the twist that focuses on the human origins of the monsters; this sets up a much more sophisticated conflict. This is a solid start to something that doesn't feel like a story I've read dozens of times before.

Are the Big Girls the protectors of humanity or a symptom of a broader disease?

How mindless are the Jacks, and how much humanity is hidden within their misshapen bodies?

Big Girls #4 takes a basic premise and keeps twisting it and adding layer and dimension to make it incredibly intriguing. In a world jaded by the repeated attacks by Jacks, Ember is a ray of hope, but even she doesn't completely understand what she is up against.

Maybe fighting is not the only answer in the conflict between humans and Jacks.

Life on Mars gets difficult when the Plutarkians invade, and the Biker Mice must find their place in the conflict.

Bitter Root #1 is action packed and really neat to look at. The story is up front about racism " and the associated hatred and fear that are behind it " which the monsters represent literally as well as figuratively. It is a fascinating touch to have the monster hunters not just killing the monsters, but releasing the humans from having become monsters, which is also strongly symbolic. This is a book that has something to say, is set in an interesting time period, and is told from a point of view we don't see enough of. I highly recommend this one.

If you like horror, and especially if you like horror that has relevance in our world, read Bitter Root #2. It is deep and thoughtful, well executed, and a rip-roaring good read. It's such a great take on the theme of the monsters within us and how we can deal with them. And read through the entire issue " there are a couple great essays at the end.

I just cannot say enough about Bitter Root #3. Every time we learn a bit more, we also learn that this is a small part of the iceberg. Problems are cropping up all over and seem harder to deal with. The characters are all strong and distinct, but not infallible. Their individual stories are as interesting as the overall plot.

A tension-filled monster battle that fearlessly reaches in and pulls out some hard truths.

Family, monster hunting, and bigger challenges yet to come " what more could you want in a book?

The biggest incursion of Jinoo in ages, and the Sangeryes may be fighting it alone.

We learn what set Dr. Sylvester on his path, and he learns where his road is taking him.

While Blink and Enoch try to keep things stable in Harlem, the other Sangeryes travel to the heart of the south, where Adro feeds on the grief of the desperate.

As if Jinoo weren't enough, the Sangeryes head south to find and stop Dr. Sylvester and Adro!

The summer of Adro was a really bad summer " and perhaps it was just the beginning.

Bitter Root #11 is a terrific jumping on point if you have not been reading this award-winning (and well-deservedly so book. The use of history to provide a basis for the fantasy horror give the book a depth that is difficult to rival.

Many changes come to the Sangerye family, including a passing of the torch.

Enoch is dead " has his discovery died with him?

Bitter Root #15 is a hugely satisfying closure for one of the most brilliant series I have ever read. The story is unflinching and gripping in its honesty. But it is also unyielding in showing us how persistence in focusing on the greater good is important. Honestly, it has been a privilege to read this book.

Catching up with the past is a cool way to get us ready for the next volume of Bitter Root!

When vigilante meets sneak thief, sparks fly, but oh so briefly.

I won't lie, Black Stars Above #3 is strange and a little confusing at times. This issue is wordy, especially with the journal pages, but everything works together to set the tone. If your jam is fast-paced monster fights, this is probably not for you, but if you like something that slowly sets you on edge, check this one out.

This is a magical story. There's a lot going on here, and it is sometimes difficult to follow what's going on. To be fair, trying to find Paragons who are expert at magic and keeping themselves hidden would make the investigation challenging and frustrating, and reading this feels a bit like this. The heroine has family problems, which has to the potential to be interesting if we see her challenged by them. The premise is intriguing.

The pacing and story are picking up in Blackbird #3. There's less of a sense of frustration " where Nina kind of knows what's going on, but no one believes her " and more a sense of action and danger. I was not expecting the big reveal at the end, and it does put an interesting twist on the story. It's a solid book that seems to be hitting its stride.

Blackbird #5 is very dreamlike, but it hits upon some hard truths.

Blackbird #6 comes to a satisfactory close that still leaves some questions unanswered, some problems unresolved. The family drama has higher stakes than we supposed at first, and Nina has grown strong enough in herself to make choices and stick with them.

Vampires are powerful, not nice, and protect their lifestyle ruthlessly.

Bloodline: Daughter of Blade #1 introduces a charming heroine who is full of potential. She is going to need all the support she has as the action ramps up!

Whitney thought Bri was a monster, but could they be vampire hunters together?

Bloodline: Daughter of Blade #4 contains a lot of emotional turmoil. I like seeing Blade's relationship with his daughter start to grow even as the danger grows around them.

The Book of Slaughter is a gorgeous way to connect the stories so far and stories yet to come. It may not be a starting point, but for someone actively reading the series, it is a worthy item to add to your bookshelf.

Maxine agrees to train with a Black Mask from the Butcher Shop and learns more than she was expecting.

Border Town #1 starts out with a bang and does not back down.

I like Border Town #2 on so many different levels. It is tense and dramatic. It touches the lives of teenagers in several different situations at home.

Border Town #3 is powerful. The creators have something to say, and they aren't shy about it. The horror is undeniable, but there are moments of breathtaking beauty superimposed on that horror. There is plenty of action and also danger " these young people are vulnerable in so many ways, it keeps me on the edge of my seat.

Oh my gosh, Border Town #4 is terrific. It made me stop and think about some things " living an undocumented life " in a way I haven't not before. I love the mix of supernatural horror with the more mundane evils of 21st century life, which can be horrors in themselves. This story is building tension steadily and inexorably which is great for a horror title.

Being a detective in Ancient Rome may not be easy, but it is interesting.

This is a somewhat wordy book, both because there is a fair amount to explain about the setting and because this is a mystery and we like to see how the detective " or detectioner " puts clues together.

Britannia: Lost Eagles of Rome #4 is a satisfying ending to this story. It ties up all the loose ends neatly. The bad guys get their just desserts, and our hero is left in that ambiguous place where he solved one problem, which may inadvertently lead to bigger problems. If you love historical mysteries as much as I do, this is a great read.

It's Toba's first day at a new school, and the mysteries just keep coming.

Things are strange in Buckhead, and maybe a video game is the key to the mystery.

The mystery of the old house is solved, but there are bigger problems in Buckhead!

There's no turning back now as Toba and his friends sneak into the school to stop the mind control!

This is it the final showdown with Ewon!

If you ever explored old abandoned places by night, this is what you think you wish you would have found there.

A couple of young people making the biggest discovery of the century, or lost in time and space?

Just when we're focusing on the stranded Heather and Jane, we are reminded again that Chet Charles disappeared. The plot thickens"

By Night #4 lets us savor the mystery of the world through the portal.

We have more conflict in By Night #5 even as more characters have been drawn together by their shared secret. I like that we keep finding out more about Gardt's world, and it's more complicated than just a world with cute sprites and dangerous werewolves. It's an interesting tale in who to trust.

I actually really like that By Night #6 is getting a little grittier. I think that the story we frequently see is of adventures through a portal without a lot of consequences. This story is shaping up to be full of consequences, and now that we've come to know and like a lot of the characters, there is an emotional stake too.

I like the pace at which the story in By Night #7 is unfolding. Every time I think I know where we're headed, someone throws a wrench in the works. Things are complicated all over. It feels a little like a shaggy dog story, but hanging out with these characters is charming. Everyone is being pulled in so many directions that it helps keep things fresh.

The characters are complicated and interesting, and the story keeps getting just a little bigger with each issue.

As we've worked our way up to By Night #9, the story has bounced back and forth from a light-hearted fantasy romp, to a tale of corporate secrets and subterfuge. It has its humorous moments, but more and more we see that there is a lot at stake, and now to see the past revealed really kicks up the excitement a notch.

Jane and Heather reach Chet Charles " what is his story for the last few decades?

It isn't just a crazy romp in another dimension; it's a thoughtful exploration of actions and consequences.

By Night #12, where people's lives are shaped by the decisions that they make and the secrets that they keep.

Small things can make a big difference.

Sometimes being brave really means admitting that you're afraid and going forward anyway.S

Canto's world is a bigger place than he imagined, with an uglier secret at its heart.

Canto realizes that he needs allies, and more of them, in his fight against the Shrouded Man.

In moving toward the future, Canto visits another place from his past to search for the Slavers.

As Canto and Aulaura explore the Frysta Wastes, the Shrouded Man mobilizes his army!

Canto may be small, but he has the courage to face his old enemy and offer up a hand in peace.

It will take more than the Vikus to challenge the Furies!

Canto fights the Fury's army in the Frysta Wastes, but what else has the Shrouded Man planned?

Canto #1 (Tales of the Unnamed World) breaks away from the main storyline and lets us experience the world in a quieter time. Since one of the main themes is stories, this is a fitting way to do some additional exploration.

Canto & the Clockwork Fairies is a nice little heroic tale just big enough to reorient us to the world and its characters. It has its moments, but overall it's less dark than the main story has been. It's perfect for a summertime read.

Canto's people start a new, free life only to find that their days are numbered.

Canto goes to see an old friend for some help and finds himself face to face with enemies new and old.

Canto II: The Hollow Men #4 balances drama, humor, and adventure. The setting continues to grow as the story moves through it, and the Shrouded Man's story is exposed as Canto persists in trying to overcome him.

Canto #1 is the beginning of the concluding arc to what has been a long and terrific saga. Despite the dark overtones, there is still a thread of hope.

Canto returns to New Arcana with resolve, but battles can be unpredictable.

Canto goes to the Great Guardians of Dis and finds them having a hard time of it.

Canto is in the maze between a Witch he cannot trust and a monster he knows nothing of.

For a short interlude, Canto and the City of Giants #3 finishes a compact story well. These three issues can stand on their own perfectly well, but I like how the also give us plot points and events that make Canto's main story that much richer.

Felix Lamarr is in debt to a crime family but intends to use his skills as a master thief to buy himself some time.

Felix suddenly finds himself to be the target of all his grandmother's old friends.

Cat Fight #4 is a globe-trotting game of cat and mouse with a huge puzzle at its core. Felix is entertaining, as lucky as he is cynical and just clever enough to figure out what is going on.

We're two issues into the current volume here with Kino #11. This is still a decent point at which to jump on. If you like stories of suspense and intrigue, as well as superpowers, I strongly recommend this book. The action is good, and the plot is engaging and interesting.

Characters are made interesting to us by the choices that they make, and Kino #12 really shows us what this means. No one has easy choices. As the reader, we have the benefit of seeing when characters make choices that are bound to cause them problems, and we cringe. But this is also what brings us back for more.

Kino #14 rewards the reader who has been following the plot all along. It is a complicated story, well thought out, and with a truly reprehensible villain who is all the more so because at his core, he acts like powerful people in our real world do. He is horrifying because he is plausible.

As much as I hate seeing what Kino is being put through, I simply cannot look away.

Staking her claim in Villa Hermosa, Catwoman strikes with her claws bared!

Modern life, where a retail job may be a stepping stone on your way to greater things.

In the era of big hair, it's three against one when Charlie's Angels come face to face with Jaime Sommers.

The original Charlie's Angels in the 1970s " need I say more?

From investigations to international intrigue, the Angels are always at the top of their game!

We have a truly light-hearted thriller here. Have I mentioned "fun," enough times in my review yet?

I had a lot of fun reading Charlie's Angels #5, and indeed the entire arc. The plot befits the TV show " a decent problem, but a whole lot of room for action and a certain amount of goofiness. There is clear affection for the show " and the time period. I think the epilogue is strong. It opens the door to a modern version of the story, but even if there isn't an ongoing series, it's a nice, tidy ending. It was a pleasure to suspend my disbelief for a while reading this book.

When a little clay Dogu is in trouble and needs help, Chibi Usagi and his friends answer the call!

Chilling Adventures of Salem is a terrific one-shot, and it is especially fitting that it is coming out during the Halloween season. If you love the Archie Horror line-up, it is a solid addition to the collection featuring a favorite character.

Twenty-five years ago, a famed masked vigilante vanished and now someone wants to find him again!

The bleakness of mortality envisioned in weird road trip of a tale.

Colonel Weird travels to his own past to find what he has forgotten.

Colonel Weird desperately follows his wandering memories trying to find the missing piece.

Colonel Weird revisits his life, spiraling ever closer to an important " the most important " memory.

Shahidah El-Amin is searching for an artifact but has discovered much more than she bargained for.

In Compass: The Cauldron of Eternal Life #2, we learn what is at stake. All the pieces appear to be on the playing field and we are at that wonderful point where everyone is at cross purposes, and we cannot know who can be trusted.

Shahi is taken to the entrance to the Barrow of Annwn, but from there she is on her own!

Compass: The Cauldron of Eternal Life #4 continues to thrill and delight. With one foot squarely in history, it pulls from the best of fantastic to create a tale that balances the two deftly.

Which is stronger, the loyalty of friendship, or loyalty bought with threats?

Dark Agnes rescues her friend Etienne Villiers and the two of them set out on a job, straight into their enemy's land.

Agnes tries to lay low, but it is not in her nature, not when a villain is at hand!

Dead Dog's Bite strikes the balance between normalcy and a disquieting feeling that something possibly sinister has happened. Joe comes across as someone who is socially awkward and not always likable, but she also seems determined to find out what happened to her friend. This is, quite frankly, a terrific book.

The strangest people live in Pendermills, but are they hiding secrets?

Joe painstakingly follows another lead only to find her hopes dashed.

Joe closes in on the mystery, only to find an utterly unexpected answer.

Pulp space fantasy with some political intrigue and a lot of buff characters.

Mariko tries to get to the root of the conflict between Yamato and Bake-Yoroi.

Dial H for Hero #3 is a bit different from the typical superhero book. Our young main characters have real problems in their lives, and those threads are used deftly to help drive the plot. It's certainly imaginative, and not a bad story overall.

Expect the unexpected when the H-Dial is in play!

Metropolis is going crazy, thanks to Mister Thunderbolt, and where's Superman when you need him?

Welcome to the Heroverse, where heroes exist in potentia, and narrative flow has no set direction.

If you like some two-fisted action with your law and order, Dick Tracy Forever may fit the bill.

Dick Tracy Forever #2 is a two-fisted detective story that can be hard-hitting while still having a thread of humor. It has the classic feel of old-school tales, and the look is distinctive and striking.

Doom knew things were going to go wrong, but this is not quite what he expected.

Is the road to death always destined to be a one-way journey?

I am intrigued by the premise of Dr. Mirage #3. I like the uncertainty of whether it takes place somewhere in the Deadside, or in Grace's head, or even in Shan's own mind. Because of this uncertainty, it is also a little nebulous as far as what is actually going on. I like the exploration into themes of loss, though.

Dr. Mirage has been helping the dead move on for years. When grief hits her hard, can they return the favor?

It's Bart's lucky day as he gets picked to be a superhero sidekick to his alternate universe self.

While Dryad #1 has some familiar fantasy elements, it has some refreshing twists. The characters are interesting, and it's fun not to start out with immediate conflict and angst. It's a solid set up for the rest of the series.

The setting is classic fantasy world, and honestly, for this one, you don't need to know any more than that.

After losing their parents in a pogrom, Alex and Yuli are on their own amidst winter and warfare.

Edenfrost #2 is full of suspense. Death could be around the corner at any moment, and allies may be tenuous at best. To complicate the situation with a golem that may not be controllable makes this a fascinating read.

Edenfrost #3 boils over with high tensions and treachery. That the protagonists are kids growing up early only heightens the sense of drama.

As Edenfrost #4 closes, Alex and Yuli have made it through the immediate danger of the army, but they still have no family and nowhere safe to go. And the family protector they have is still an unknown quantity.

"It came from the wine cellar!" "Who has the corkscrew?"

A little less exposition and a little more action gives this issue some zing.

If you're fond of traditional horror and you have a sense of humor, I think you might like Elvira Mistress of the Dark #3. It's breezy and carefree, with plenty of jokes. Elvira is capable as a heroine, but not so serious that she can't keep laughing at herself as well. It's just enjoyable to sit down with for a time, and I really like that we have the plot twist to help keep it from becoming too formulaic.

I do like that the original set up of the chapters is twisting in on itself in Elvira Mistress of the Dark #4. Variations on a theme are more interesting, and now we've reached yet another layer of bad guy. I think the number of jokes has ticked up again, and they're downright clever. It's a good, solid issue.

A quest through the Underworld, as only Elvira can do.

After a life in Hollywood, nothing can faze Elvira!

Saving the world from Vlad Tepes. NBD, amirite?

Why does Walter Willem's unremarkable life end on the field of a perpetual battle?

End After End #3 is an interesting take on a sort of afterlife that is as nebulous and confusing as life itself. As Walt settles in, will he find that he has some control over his destiny here, or is he only part of someone else's adventure?

End After End #4 is a melancholy chapter in a fluid story that started out with more classic heroics but now reapproaches a main character who learned long ago that real life does not come with literary heroes. If there is no grand meaning to life, what meaning is there?

If you like chase scenes in your stories, take a look at Errand Boys #1.

Trippy fantasy adventure with a distinctly modern twist.

A wild adventure through the Ether that engages the reader and draws them in for more!

Every issue has something a little different and unexpected in it; it really is a pleasure to read.

Boone Dias " burning bridges almost as fast as he can get to them in the first place.

Kindt's and Rubin's storytelling in Ether: The Disappearance of Violet Bell #3 may not be a good fit for everyone. Their take on fantasy defies categorization. But it is good, thoughtful storytelling with a wicked sense of humor and a pinch of social commentary added for spice.

Earth and the Ether have a complicated relationship. What will happen if Lord Ubel can sever all their connections?

Boone Dias has to overcome himself in order to challenge Lord Ubel.

There's a lot going on in Everything #1, and we've just scratched the surface. The book has some momentum, as though all the different threads that have been started are already intertwined and are being pulled deeper into whatever is going on. It's not a bad way to kick things off, although there are moments that still feel a little confusing.

After the grand opening of the Everything store, there are two unexplained deaths. Could they possibly be connected?

What hold does Everything have over the people of Holland, Michigan?

Welcome to Everything " where you will be assimilated, or you will die.

The premise behind Exorsisters #4 is interesting, and I like how the story is growing into a definite arc. The little "cases" that Cate and Kate work on are often lighthearted, and they help ease our way into this decidedly weird world. I appreciate the humorous moments, especially in a story which feels pretty heavy overall.

It's taken us a little time to get here, but in Exorsisters #5 we're finally seeing how many of the puzzle pieces start fitting together. It's not exactly your typical take on Heaven and Hell either, which is intriguing

As we begin this second arc in Exorsisters #6, the stakes are serious. This is a decent jumping on point, but this is not a carefree mystery of the week story. Some of the biggest powers of the universe are making their moves, and Cate and Kate are in the center of it all. And talk about both the closeness of sisters, and the chains that bind a dysfunctional family. There are some heavy threads here, but the humor does work to lighten things up a touch.

It's the epic final battle with the First Shadow " and things will not be the same!

Solid detective work in a high fantasy world.

It's an intriguing and satisfying read.

Another mystery solved, but with a few loose ends that haven't been tucked in yet.

Fairlady #4 takes a look at one of Jenner's more mundane, or at least less dangerous, cases. There's a delightful bit of worldbuilding lurking just under the surface of the mystery which makes this issue extra fun.

ll is not as it seems " what is the plot and who is behind it?

Faith: Dreamside #2 has a good mix of drama and humor which makes it a pleasure to read. Faith is heroic and engaging, especially since she has her oh-so-human moments. Leading us to the Deadside builds up the excitement to see what it is like, and now that we know Animalia isn't just plagued by normal ghosts, I'm even more intrigued.

I think the opening super-sweet portrayal of an afterlife, as in Faith: Dreamside #3, is refreshing. It helps set up a world where almost anything could happen. There is some terrific character development here as well, and the set up for the conclusion is certainly dramatic. I think this is a solid issue in an enjoyable story arc.

It's great when a story can tell us something about its characters, and Faith: Dreamside #4 does not let us down. In saving Monica, Faith herself has moved from a dark place back to a more hopeful one, and that movement is fitting. I like how Dr. Mirage's calmness and composure play against Faith's irrepressible nature.

Fantastic Four: Road Trip #1 exists in its own time and place, an interlude out of the busy lives of the characters. It's a tidy story with great pacing and it is thoroughly enjoyable.

Aspen Mathews, in Fathom #6, is an interesting and powerful heroine. Her world is fascinating, and I like the way the story is progressing. The U.S. " Russia conflict feels very pertinent, and I like setting it against the conflict in the Blue as well. It's a good balance between espionage and superpowers.

To survive in the wild is an adjustment for three indoor cats, but this is only the beginning of their tale.

Beware the strange powers"of the finger guns!

Sadie and Wes find common ground in their finger guns and music.

Sadie's desperate plan relies on the finger guns she doesn't totally understand.

Sadie tries to get away from her father " but what if her powers came from him?

I've been a fan of The Flash for a long time, and The Flash #71 is solid take on his origin and becoming a hero.

Piece by piece, Barry Allen's world is falling into place.

So far, this is not a book that is heavy on the action, but the storytelling is a pleasure.

There is some very nice character development, and this builds on hints that were planted in earlier issues. This is a charming book.

Future State: Catwoman #1 is engaging right out of the gate. There is some truly clever dialogue, and the plot keeps nudging the stakes a little higher every few pages. This is a thrilling ride from start to finish.

Future State: Wonder Woman #1 throws us right into the story with a deftly handled blend of narration, action, and humor. It's clear from the get-go that this is a different Wonder Woman with her own background, but it is also clear that she, in her own way, is up to the name. This is a terrific book.

Dizzy hasn't become great at anything"yet. But that may be about to change.

Dizzy has her special equipment, but now the hard work begins.

The Negatrixes continue to cause problems, but this time they head for the top " the Mayor!

The power of individuality and the power of teamwork are not mutually exclusive.

Ghost Tree #1 takes some time to set up, but for those of us not terribly familiar with Japan, I think this helps to immerse us in the setting and gradually add the supernatural flavor. I really like the family moments, the premise is fascinating, and it is just a gorgeous book to look at.

A supernatural mystery with a strongly folkloric feel.

What are the consequences of living your life in the past rather than in the present?

A gentle reminder that life is for living and memories are not a place to hide.

An earnest and humorous take on growing up with a twist of the supernatural.

On her own for college, Daphne never expected to be making friends with ghosts!

Daphne finds herself sharing her secret"just a little"in order to help her ex, but there may be unintended consequences!

It isn't all fun and games at Rycroft Manor " life is complicated, and ghosts are complicated.

Just when Daphne thinks she's getting her life in better balance, more complications arrive.

Trying to find the proper work-afterlife balance can be tricky.

Just as things start to settle down at Rycroft Manor, Shirley wants to make a change.

The mysterious door in the basement opens " but now what?

You can purchase this issue via comiXology

Once part of the privileged, Evan now lives on the fringes of a society where Gigas are everything from shelter to religion."

Evan just wants to live his life, but finds himself inexorably drawn into a crime of mythic proportions!

Giga #4 is an intense chapter in a story full of plots, treachery, and even some hope and optimism. The series is a fantastic read with hard-hitting ideas that make you stop and think and characters that continue to surprise.

A young scholar must become an adventurer, and on his journey, he awakens the protector of the world.

Now that's he's awoken Gogor, Armano finds himself drawn further away from home in the struggle against The Domus.

Armano accepts his destiny and follows Gogor to a new floating island.

It's one thing to sneak into the city of Azimuth in disguise, but can Armano get safely out again?

There's humor, there's a solid set up of the mystery, and we have some intrepid young people to figure it all out. It's well-paced, fun, and lightly spine-tingly.

Fast thinking, teamwork, and playing to your strengths are they key when fighting a witch.

Gamers and rivals Blake and Lily meet and decide to explore the swamp looking for real monsters.

Blake takes the risk of getting to know the werewolves and discovers more than she expected.

Blake has decided the werewolves are friendly " but what will Lily decide?

The latest soul Jessica escorts to the afterlife tries to steal her scythe.

Jess feels the mystery of her death, and her ability to be seen by the living must be related.

There is an imbalance between the living and the dead, and Adira thinks she knows what to do about it.

Jess has lost her scythe, but while Death is missing, his scythe responds to her touch.

Grim #5 connects that abstraction of understanding a personified force such as Death and adding a human facet to his existence and the present conflict. Even so, there is still further mystery to uncover, and this is a glorious read.

Jess knows who she is and knows that Adira is her aunt, but she does not realize she has landed in the middle of a huge conflict.

A world without death is not a world without pain.

Grim #9 moves the story to Hell and finds another way to up the stakes for the Reapers. Jessica may now have some help, but her friends are also vulnerable. Her task is not going to be easy.

Grim #10 brings Jess to her latest low, but from there she starts to see a way to rise and to find the new meaning to her life. She still has no idea of just how many pending complications are waiting in the weeds for her next action.

Imprisoned again, Jess feels the futility of her life more than ever.

Jess does not want to give in to Adira but must give herself up to her fate.

Marcel has been haunted by his past and now he must revisit it face to face!

Grim #14 is a rich blend of story and allegory. It feels mythic and grand while still grounding the story in each character's personal experiences and fears.

Grim #16 opens a new arc with all the characters together again, but now with a purpose. Jess has made up her mind who she is and what she is going to do. Now let's see if she can pull it off.

Eddie has his weaknesses, but he also has some hidden strengths.

If Groo meets Tarzan, will the evildoers be vanquished, or will the world be destroyed?

It's the action-packed finale as Groo and Tarzan save the day!

The Guardians are back and are as goofy and hard-working as ever.

Callum Shah's expedition seems to be well-planned, but then unexpected things start happening.

Matt thinks he saw a ghost in the old manor, but what happened to the crew at the refinery?

Haunt You to the End #5 takes the dystopian ghost-hunter set-up and turns it into something desperate, something that feels much bigger than any of the characters who are drawn into the story. This makes for a read that is both full of tension and thoughtful.

Hawkeye: Kate Bishop #4 is lively and fun. A nice little mystery has escalated rapidly to the point where Kate needs to ply all her skills to keep things under control.

Lupe is the girl of Rico's dreams, except that her very existence seems improbable.

Lupe has more of a connection to the monsters than anyone else realizes.

Heart Eyes #3 is strange and disquieting. We know Lupe has a connection to the monsters, and we know at least one other person in the story knows. But just what it remains a mystery.

Heart Eyes #4 is building to a finish even as the narrative shows us more puzzle pieces that must somehow fit together. While nothing seems to make sense at first, it feels like the key is just around the corner.

Old acquaintances, fellow crooks, unsavory gangs, and a streetwise kid start the action off with a bang!

Dodging thugs and assassins, Glane Breld start putting his plan in motion.

As Glane Breld moves forward with his plan, Samuel Reven may have his own plot in the works.

Heist, or How to Steal a Planet #6 is high stakes drama. I love that everyone in it is smart. Reven is rich and powerful, but he knows that that alone isn't enough to take Breld down. For his part, Breld is madly setting up things he may need in the future. And we readers fly along, enjoying the ride as each subsequent twist is revealed to us.

Heist, or How to Steal a Planet #7 kicks things into high gear and is a super-entertaining read. Breld is smart, but so is Reven, so there is never a dull moment. It is such a pleasure to lose yourself in this book.

Once Hell to Pay #1 gets going, there is plenty of action and a solid setup to lead us further into the story. What is even more interesting is that there are plans for Shrouded College to be the center of different stories. In that case, I can forgive some of the extra time spent in world-building because there is an entire world to be built upon.

While sometimes the story beats of Hell to Pay #2 feel clunky, it does have plenty of action and the concept is imaginative.

Hell to Pay #3 is not just telling Maia and Sebastian's story. It is establishing the world of the Shrouded College with plans to tell more stories in the setting. Even though there is a lot of world-building, the story continues to move along at a cracking pace.

We learn the origin of the hooded man and just what his plans he has for the Qurrakhs.

It is up to Maia to rescue Sebastian while the hooded man finally mints a sufficiency of Qurrakh.

It is a race against time as Maia tries to rescue Sebastian and stop the hooded man from hiring the Devil himself!

Virgil Hilts is on the lam in Hell, attempting to clear his name.

Virgil meets one of the original Hellcops and finds out some of the dimension's history.

An interdimensional incursion may lead to a major interdimensional incident!

A simple rescue suddenly becomes a crucial diplomatic mission.

Work is never a dull moment for Virgil, especially when some of the problems are caused by his own team members!

Shub Niggurath does not die easily, and an attempt to kill her may have consequences.

High Heaven #1 is not a book for everyone, but it is a fascinating concept and tale.

Will the house "that kills people" live up to its reputation?

Ami is trapped by the Old James House, and the house is no stranger to death!

The world of reality and the world of ghosts intersect with catastrophic consequences!

Buzz finds Ami, and they discover that someone else is looking for the missing ghosts!

Ami tries to make peace with the Old James House, but she learns she cannot leave.

Can the handful of ghosts in the Old James House withstand the power of the Nuclear Bastard?

The Old James House ghost has more secrets to reveal, and a complicated past.

Another ghost, another complication.

The final ghost returns to the Old James House, but not like anyone expected!

Is there any peace for the ghosts of America and the ghosts of the Old James House?

Aaron recalls the first man he ever loved " and how he had to kill him.

Aaron's task is to hunt and kill his old love, but first there is a monster to fight.

Jace shares his past with Aaron in the hopes of sparing his life.

To be a successful hunter, one must be more clever than the prey could imagine.

The House of Slaughter runs on more than the Dragon and his hunters.

House of Slaughter #7 gives us a horror story that is more disturbing than disgusting. I like that Edwin thinks about things from a distinct perspective, which fills out our knowledge about this world even while drawing us deeper into the mystery.

If you like a disquieting horror story with the protagonist reasoning through a game of cat-and-mouse while being the mouse, House of Slaughter #8 is terrific. I like the shift in the balance of power between Edwin and Hermes and the way Edwin's fatalism contributes to his creativity.

House of Slaughter #5 is not just a tale about Edwin's place in the Order. It has turned into a tale of monstrous intrigue. Edwin has a different kind of deal with Hermes that gives us an entirely new and terrifying take on monsters.

House of Slaughter #10 continues to be more abstract than a simple monster hunt. Again, this issue benefits from a couple reads. I like the subtleties of the story myself because, in a mirror of life, the drama does not always come from the events that occur. It may come from the choices that people make and how they make them.

Jace Boucher is busy protecting orphans he has rescued, but one of them may be more work than he expected.

Jace may have set up his own operation, but the Butcher Shop is still in operation.

Sunny is drawn further into the Butcher Shop and Jace feels he must follow.

House of Slaughter #15 is an issue that makes your heart sink. This is a horror story, and only some of the monsters are creatures. Human monsters are trickier and at least as dangerous as the other kind.

House of Slaughter #16 launches us into a new monster hunt and prepares to give us a closer look into the operations of the White Masks. How do these pack hunters work together and maintain their ferocity without turning on themselves?

Bain does not know how to accomplish his mission and save the people he wants to save, and time is running out!

Bait has his strengths, but he also has vulnerabilities.

Jace has drawn the unwanted attention of the Butcher Shopand the House of Slaughter!

Jolie wants to take out the man she hates. Slaughter wants to beat Butcher at its own game. Will either of them get what they want?

Jace's reverse ambush leaves Slaughter and Butcher reeling and running out of time!

The hunt for Jace Boucher threatens to tear the Butcher Shop itself apart.