Jesse Izdepski Comic Reviews

A&A: The Adventures of Archer and Armstrong #2 is the perfect book for new readers looking to enjoy light-hearted fun.

If you like sexy ninja-nuns randomly beheading drunken demons at a party, then you will love this book. It's 100% worth a look!

A&A: The Adventures of Archer & Armstrong #5is a welcome and enjoyable addition to the Archer & Armstrong mythos, and exactly the type of story that readers have patiently waited for since Archer & Armstrong #25.

A&A: The Adventures of Archer& Armstrong #7 is athree-ring circus of fun and complete clown show of entertainment. If you likeseeingdwarfclowns punted into the air, and diabolically evil talking bear scientists, well then,this book is for you.

A&A: The Adventures of Archer and Armstrong #10 has its strong points, moments, and laughs. It is a title possessing strong potential for greatness.

A&A: The Adventures of Archer and Armstrong #12 concludes with a tidal-wave of action. While a bit over the top and silly at times, it is enjoyable with a promise of future greatness. The best is yet to come forArcher & Armstrong.

Armstrong and the Vault of Spirits #1 is an enjoyable story that both new and old fans ofArcher & Armstrongwill enjoy. It is exactly what you have been looking for.

If you are looking for a well-crafted, multi-layered story with quality artwork depicting ninjas, zombies, and giant robots fighting in New York with a backdrop of impending romantic doom, well, you need to be reading Bloodshot U.S.A.

This book is good enough to proudly hang the walls of my home.

Bloodshot: Reborn #7blends blood, action, violence, love, death, anxiety, hope, doubt, and anticipation to grab and maintain the reader's focus. It works best as a character building issue that does a strong job setting up the amazement that is to come.

Bloodshot: Reborn has not, and does not, look and feel like anything Bloodshot from the past. This is a good thing, and provides fans and readers the chance to have a fresh take on the world of Bloodshot. Nothing here is over-the-top. This story could be watched on the silver screen and it would make sense, though it is really in all truth only the beginning of what is to come. Valiant Entertainment has chosen to place Bloodshot front-and-center in the Valiant Universe at this stage, and it only makes sense that we the reader are shown the man behind Bloodshot and the motivations that will carry him forward into the distant future.

A believable story about unbelievable concepts which is in every way possible what science fiction and/or fantasy is supposed to do.

It warrants mention again: read this book! This isn't the latest reboot or a mini-series, it's issue #10 of what is arguably Valiant Entertainment's flagship and/or premier comic book. Hands down, the best place for new readers to enter the world of Bloodshot!

Bloodshot: Reborn #11is a pivotal part of a much larger story that deserves the full attention of the comic book community. It is a literary and visual masterpiece that succeeds in every possible way at entertaining readers and fans.

If you have not readBloodshot: Reborn #10 – 13, take the time to do so. It is well worth cover price, and the sort of story that only comes around everyfew years, if at all. This is a five-star experience that was created for the enjoyment of comic book fans! It belongs in your comic book library.

Bloodshot: Reborn #14 is a well-written, compelling, and mysterious story loaded with some of the finest artwork in the industry. It is the perfect starting point for new readers to jump on, and well worth it's cover price.

Bloodshot: Reborn #15 is arguably the most significant Bloodshot story published in recent history. It is a turning point in a series of turning points, and an issue that should not be missed.

“Bloodshot Island” is an explosive action thriller brought to life by a phenomenal creative team.The story is very well written, and the artwork is better than 99% ofwhat is available anywhere in comic books today!With this story arc ending next issue with issue #17, it is nearly impossible not to look forward to Bloodshot USA this fall.

Bloodshot Reborn #17 is a visually stunning experiencewith anequally enjoyable story. It take readers one step closer to the conclusion of “Bloodshot Island” which has been everything (and more) that fans could have possibly hoped it would be.

Bloodshot Salvation #1 is an artistic masterpiece by three of the finest artists in comic books today! It is a brilliant story that continues a tradition of excellence as only Jeff Lemire can create. Not to be missed, and guaranteed to be enjoyed; Bloodshot Salvation is a total win!

Bloodshot Salvation #7 is brilliant storytelling that proves how less can truly be more. It is a publishing risk that is a total success and demonstrates the magic of the Valiant Universe and the enormous talent that is Jeff Lemire.

The heartfelt story of two Soldiers returning home after spending a lifetime at war. It touches on a what many Soldiers leave behind... ...and of the camaraderie that exists between all who have answered their nation's call to arms.

He has also not been handled by Valiant Entertainment as well as he should, often written as a brute fighter clumsily swinging an axe and his foes. Long-time readers and fans of Gilad know how to look beyond his recent stories and know what the character is truly capable of. Occasionally (e.g. Eternal Warrior #8; the endof the Eternal Emperor story arc) we have seen a glimpse of his potential. However, for much of his recent appearances, Gilad

Book of Death #3 is easily as strong as the first two issues of this epic, and does a fantastic job of paving the way for what is to come with the final events of Book of Death #4 next month. It is absolutely worth picking up and reading this series if you have not yet done so.

There is zero reason to not readBook of Death #4. If you have enjoyed the series so far, then enjoy this satisfying conclusion. If you have not yet read Valiant Entertainment's 2015 epic saga, then you are encouraged to catch-up, either by grabbing Book of Death #1 through #4, or by getting a copy of the trade paperback that will soon be released. Following the events of The Valiant #1 through #4, and leading into the uncharted pages of Wrath of the Eternal Warrior, Book of Death #4 is a book that demands a look.

The issue is not the artwork or the colors but 100% a failure in the characterization, writing, and overall premise.

Divinity II is an artistic masterpiece that literally (and figuratively) takes readers to another world! It is a phenomenal expansion of the Valiant Universe, and 100% worth the time of new and old readers.

Divinity II #2 alters reality and changes the world; it is a ridiculously great chapter in a phenomenal story that demands your attention. If you have considered reading, do yourself a favor and jump in. Nothing like Divinity II exists in comic books right now, and in an industry that begs for original and interesting concepts, this is a book that has it all.

Divinity II #3 is an incredibleissue that is part of an outstanding series; expanding what is known about an incredible work of science fiction. Critics and readers alike are praising Divinityfor a very good reason; it is among the absolute best books the comic industry is publishing today.

Divinity II #4 is very well written, thought-provoking story that does a phenomenal job of closing this second chapter of Divinity. It sets the stage for what is to come, and does so in such a way that readers and fans look forward to the release of Divinity III later this year.

Eternal Warrior: Awakening #1 has anaesthetic that is perhaps a bitmore visually familiar to long time readers and fans of the series. This is not to say that recent version of the title (drawn byCary Nordand Raul Allen) were any less (both were artistically incredible).Eternal Warrior: Awakening #1 is fast paced, violent, character driven, and exactly what the series fans are have been lookingfor.

Eternity #4 bends space, time, and reality continuing the Divinity storyline to a satisfying outcome. With endless potential the promise of more to come,Eternity is absolutely worth your time.

Generation Zero #2is an enjoyable story that explores and expands its mythos with a unique direction. There is unlimited potential with this title, which will no doubt create its own place in the Valiant Universe.

Harbinger Wars II is a pivotal event that promises to alter the course and direction of the Valiant Universe (and the publisher itself).

Harbinger: Renegade #0 is an excellent read and enjoyable visual experience, coupled with an interesting story overflowing with action.

Since 1992, Harbinger has stood as a flagship title and beacon of hope for comic book excellencein the Valiant Universe; as well as the entire comic book genre. Harbinger: Renegades is a nostalgic, yet fresh and captivating joyride thatbrilliantly blends the best of the yesterday and today. This is a very strong beginning to what appears to be a quality approach to Valiant Entertainment's next chapter in outstandingseries.

Harbinger Renegade #2 succeeds as an entertaining, well crafted story filled with compellingcharacters and a promising future. Artistically, there is room for improvement so that this story can achieve the greatness that it rightly deserves.

Immortal Brothers: The Tale of the Green Knight #1 is an enjoyable tale rendered by one of the best art teams in the industry. It is a Valiant take on a familiar story that is perfect for both new and old readers to equally enjoy.

Imperium should be listed among the best comic book series released by any publisher in the last decade. It is a phenomenal series that cannot be more strongly recommended to readers.

I have to go on record as saying that CLAYTON HENRY's understanding of depth, perspective, and proportion is flawless. if you ever get the chance to hold and view his work up close, you will be shocked at how clean and smooth each line is. I personally did not fully appreciate or understand his mastery of pencil and ink until given the chance to physically see how much quality and effort he puts into each page; while at the same time NEVER ONCE overdoing it. He makes it easy for BRIAN REBER and ANDERW DALHOUSE to add colours and bring each page to life. Again, CLAYTON HENRY was the perfect artist to draw this book.

If you don't enjoy this book, then you might not enjoy comics. 100% awesome, enjoyable, entertaining, and fun. Everything a comic should be and more.

This is a perfect issue, both written and artistically. Colorist Andrew Dalhouse knocks it out of the park and had to have fun coloring this issue. It looks and feels EXACTLY likea Ivar, Timewalker or Archer & Armstrong book should look and feel. He is the right colorist to pair with Perez, and for this book.Reading Ivar, Timewalker is the sort of experience that makes a reader (just for a moment) forget that he/she has bills to pay, or problems in life. For that one moment as they flip though the masterpiece created by the team of Fred Van Lente, Pere Perez, and Andrew Dalhouse, readers can feel like a kid again. It's that good.

If you do one more thing in 2015, it should be readingIvar, Timewalker#1 through #12. It's the sort of book that only comes around every couple of years, and is in itself an event that should NOT be missed.

Livewire #1 is a captivating experience and an outstanding visual example of what comic books are supposed to be. It is a transitional point for the Valiant Universe that serves as a perfect starting point for new readers to experience the magic of Valiant Entertainment. If this level of quality can be maintained moving forward, the future looks promising.

Ninja-K #1 is comic book excellence of the highest quality. It is visually stunning with an interesting story and compelling characters that makes it well worth your time.

Beautifully drawn and brilliantly written;Ninja-K #2 is quality entertainment of the highest degree.

Ninja-K is is a masterfully written and visually stunning experience. Christos Gage and Tomas Giorello have taken one of the best titles Valiant Entertainment has to offer, and have taken this title to the next level of greatness!

Ninjak #12is the perfect book for Shadowman fans, while further expanding the known Valiant Universe as well as fan-favoritecharactersNinjak and Punk Mambo. There is more at play here than what we have seen in the past, and it makes for a well written and visual experience.

Ninjak #13is the very best of theOperation Deadside story arc.Shadowmanfans will likely become quite excited as events unfold and the future implications they hold. The role (and abilities) ofPunk Mambowithin the Valiant Universe and also theShadowmanmythos is certainly one that should not be missed. This issue will make you believe in magic.

Ninjak #14 is the perfect starting point for new readers to jump into the world of Ninjak while telling a story that longtime readers and fans will no doubt enjoy.

The Siege of Kings Castleis well written, and masterfully rendered. Ninjak #15 is impossible to not enjoy and a perfect starting point for new readers.

Ninjak #16 is part of a well conceived and executed story concept that is both entertaining and enjoyable.

Ninjak #22 does not attempt to tackle geopolitical events or teach readers about philosophy; it is a visually stunning ass-kicking ninja bloodbath written in silence. It is a fast, and completely enjoyable read.

Ninjak #27 is pure tactical espionagein a world of genetically-enhanced assassins, special operations forces, and Ninjas battling one another, their own ethics, and the geopolitical realities of their world. If you like G.I. Joe or Metal Gear,you will love this issue. It is a strong debut for writerKevin Maurer, who we can only hope to see more of in the Valiant Universe.

Ninjak vs the Valiant Universe#1 is the perfect starting point for anyone interested in what Valiant has to offer. It is a story designed to introduce the world to the same magic of the Valiant Universe that has existed for 28 years, and also expand the complete experience that isNinjak vs the Valiant Universe!

Rai #10 is must-read Valiant! Do yourself a favor give it a good read; you won't regret it.

Kindt's work on this story is nothing short of epic and deserves the highest praise possible. This is the sort of story that if refined, placed into a movie script, and produced correctly, would make a billion dollars at the box office. Rai #15is masterfullywritten,visually stunning, and everything that comic books weremeant tobe!

Rai #16 represents the absolute finest work in comics today! It possesses a strong and captivating story, and matches this with high quality artwork and colors. If you were able to imagine the best Japanese animation available, it might well look like Rai.

Rai: The History of the Valiant Universe #1 is quite honestly the perfect starting point for anyone is looking to dive deep within the magic of the Valiant Universe. It is enjoyable for long time readers and fans as bridge from the events which transpired after4001 A.D. #4, to the future of the Valiant Universe.

Rapture #1 is a visually brilliant, colorful, and magical experience that builds upon our own mythology and expands it with creative finesse. It blends history and religion with science and magic, and returns Shadowman once again to the forefront of the Valiant Universe.

Rapture #2 is very well conceived and executed. It signifies a noticeable center-stage return for Shadowman, and also a significant expansion of the Deadside and spiritual worldof the Valiant Universe. Visually stunning and thought provoking. Not to be missed.

Rapture #3 is an artistically stunning treat, with an interesting story that takes readers into a strange and unique world filled with ancient evils and dangers.

Savage #1 delivers on every level with a compelling story and world-class artistic team. If you read only one book this week, you owe it to yourself to make it a Savage one!

Savage is a visually brilliant spectacle of the beauty and savage reality that exists in this story. Both a magical wonder and violent bloodbath, Savage is the escape from reality you have been searching for.

Savage is simply the best mystical island infested withmeat-eating dinosaurs and opposing factions of ruthless killer humans trying to survive while dealing withmysterious dimensional portalsin the jungle stories in print today! There is absolutely zero reason not to be reading Valiant Entertainment's Savage.

Savage is an outstanding mini-series that captures the most primal instincts and savagery of humanity in conflict with nature, mankind, and itself. It is a story of survival and overcoming fear; and in many ways becoming that which is feared. The hunterbecomes the hunted. New readersdo not need to have previouslyread any Valiant titles or series to enjoy Savage, which makes it a fantastic starting point to enter the Valiant Universe.

Some might disagree, but a spade is a spade; for a title called Unity, we needed more “unity” with how the artwork comes together in #20 (as well as #19). A potential solution could be touse one artist, or at least two thatcompliment each other's styles. This title is solid enough to demand as much.

If you read the “Warmonger” story arc, don't miss this issue; it deserves a good read. Having closed this chapter of Unity, and with the events transpiring in the pages of X-O Manowar, Imperium, and Book of Death, the stage is being set for great things to come for this title in the near-future.

Any question you may or may not have had about the future of Unity as a series is put to rest with this issue. It is therefreshing next chapter to a great story, and everything we have been waiting for.

With the“Revenge of the Armor Hunters” story arc at a close, readers can (and should) look forward to Unity #25 as an enjoyable event. Valiant Entertainment has decided to publish Unity's “FinalIssueHumorSpectacular!” in the upcoming issue #25 with an all-star creative cast, which is an event no fan should miss out on.

Unity#25 does not require prior reading to enjoy, though it certainly would help. It's a fun, non-serious collection that with worth the price of admission. Ass Man.

I can't more strongly recommend the2015 VALIANT UNIVERSE HANDBOOK to you. It is a 5 of 5 star book that should be in the hands of anyone interested in VALIANT.

Wrath of the Eternal Warrior #4 is the character-driven capstone chapter for a well crafted saga that explores the heart of the Eternal Warrior.

Venditti, along with new cohorts Ryp and Bellaire, again provides a compelling story that is a good starting point for new readers, while at the same time enjoyable and rewarding for fans of the series.

Wrath of the Eternal Warrior #7 is a masterfully written story that is artistically crafted in such a way that gets better with each consecutive reading. It is entertaining, interesting, and surprisingly strong in such a way that the future of the title appears bright and inviting. While some fans and readers might have initially been taken aback with this title,Wrath of the Eternal Warrior appears to have found its stride and has evolved into a finely crafted product that provides fans and readers a completely entertaining story.

Wrath of the Eternal Warrior #9lives up to its namesake, and continues atradition of excellence that this title will be remembered for. If you have time (or have not yet done so), take the opportunity to read the series from the beginning and up to this point. In doing so, it is quite possible that you too will see the genius and quality that isWrath of the Eternal Warrior.

It has been said before, and deserves mentioning again:Wrath of the Eternal Warrior is an incredibly strong series that is far better than its printed numbers suggest. Readers who are looking for something fresh and interesting that is well thought out and crafted with equal quality are encouraged to pick up this series either in trade paperback format or by individual issue and get caught up. It is a sleeper story that deserves a look.

Wrath of the Eternal Warriorhas been a master class in modern storytelling with a focus on the spirit and soul of a warrior. What writer Jeff Lemire did for Bloodshot with his title Bloodshot: Reborn, Venditti does so for Gilad with Wrath of the Eternal Warrior. It is a fantastic read from start to finish, and one that deserves to be in your reading library. If you have not yet done so, take the time to check it out. While the series can certainly be read on its own, reading The Valiant #1 through #4, followed Book of Death #1 through #4 prior to starting Wrath of the Eternal Warrior #1 through #15 is a great way to start the new year!

If you enjoy science fiction mixed with a bit of fantasy; while also making no apologies for awesome, then Valiant's X-O Manowar is the series for you to be reading. Do it. It's what all the cool kids are doing.

Make no mistake, this is excellentstuff that is well worth the cover price. With the consistency fans and readers have enjoyed since X-O Manowarre-launched the Valiant Universe in 2012, it's not a bad idea to re-read earlier story arcs like“By the Sword”, “Dead Hand”, and “Planet Death” as they are not required reading, but recommended reading to fully enjoy the magic of X-O Manowar's present, and future direction.

If you have been looking for a place to jump into X-O Manowar, but have not yet found it, this is that place. This is an award-winning series that should not be missed.

As this series heads towards its finale in X-O Manowar #50 later this year, Venditti is proving that he has more than one ace up his sleeve and an extra story to tell. This story is entertaining and engaging, and a solid read.

X-O Manowar #48is a character driven story with spikes of action and the promise of climactic events to come! X-O Manowar has long been a flagship title in the Valiant line, and there is little doubt that the best is yet to come.

X-O Manowar #49 is a disaster story filled with destructionas a galactic titans wage war against one another with perhaps earth's greatest city as the battlefield. There are uneasy alliances formed, strategic decisions made, and self-sacrifice given for thecontinuation oflife as it is known. If you enjoy reading about competing alien racesthat invade earth andbattle against a warrior king and his power armor wearing army backed with a fleet of advanced aircraft and starships, X-O Manowar #49 is the book for you!

X-O Manowar#2 is a brilliant interstellarepic that features compelling characters, a visually stunning setting, and exceptional story. Readers do not need to have an extensive background with these characters to jump into this story. It is everything that Valiant Entertainment promised and more, and well worth your time.

Constantly well written, visually awesome, and everything that is right in the comic book game right now...X-O Manowar is a remarkable experience that knocks it out of the park month after month.

X-O Manowaris the best comic out right now! Extremely well crafted, beautifully rendered, and perfectly presented for fans searching for everything that is right in comics today!

X-O Manowar #10 is a fantastic story with phenomenal artwork; introducing new and compelling characters, it bridges the excellence that came before, with the exciting promise of the comic book excellence that is yet to come in the pages of X-O Manowar!