Joey Caswell Comic Reviews

Although personal feelings towards this book were relatively ambiguous at first, particularly for someone who is a huge fan of the Mignolaverse, recent issues have solidified an opinion of brilliance. Issue #5 in particular demonstrated what this series is really trying to say, and where the creative team seems to want go with the story. Although the aspects concerning Abe's origins are vaguely delivered and not often related back to earlier revelations regarding his beginnings and purpose, the rest of the story provides for a profound commentary of Hell on Earth that stands in stark contrast to that portrayed in B.P.R.D., the series to which Abe Sapien almost seems to serve as a "companion".

The visuals in Abe Sapien #9 are among the best in the series so far. Furthermore, the story is getting really interesting with many different factors being set up for future development. For fans of the Mignolaverse, this book is a terrific read on its own or as a companion to the flagship B.P.R.D. title.

While Abe Sapien #12 was quite a departure from recent developments, this was nonetheless a thoroughly enjoyable installment that was superbly crafted in every respect.

This was a much darker issue of Abe Sapien, but as always, executed very well. While the overall plot of this title has taken a slight pause, this was definitely an enjoyable installment. This also may have been one of the best looking books in the series so far.

Overall, this was just another terrific installment by an astonishingly consistent and always-evolving creative team. Fans of the Mignolaverse in general should be really excited for the current state of Abe Sapien given the greater glimpses of this characters past we have recently been treated to. If you follow B.P.R.D. and other related series, but for some reason just havent gotten around to checking this one out yet, now is a perfect time to get involved.

Whether youve been reading the exploits of our bumbling bounty-hunters from the beginning, or just have an interest in fantasy or comedy writing, All-New Secret Skullkickers is a terrific addition to the ongoing saga of Rex and that damn dwarf. The current story-arc just keeps heating up with each new issue and Jim Zub has promised some big plot reveals in the near future, so make sure to come back next month to find out how a drunk pseudo-immortal dwarf [will] pay his bar tab

Aphrodite IX may not be on everybodys radar right now, but that should change. If not, the world of comic books is missing out on an incredible opportunity to be part of a really special series. Matt Hawkins and Stjepan Sejic have resurrected Aphrodite from the ashes of mediocrity and allowed her to rise to a whole new level of exciting and interesting story-telling. If you havent yet picked up your copy of #2, do yourself a favor and run back to the shop right now or you may regret it.

Aphrodite IX has really been hyped up by a handful of us, but the hype is most assuredly earned through some of the best comic book storytelling out there. The story is unique and relevant; a combination which can be difficult to achieve. The concepts employed throughout, as well as the dialogue itself, are written with an intelligence and clarity of thought that is too often lacking. Finally, it is hard to describe the art of Sejic as anything less than flawless. This series really seems to possess an intimate relationship with perfection and if you miss out on it, youre only doing a disservice to yourself.

Aphrodite IX #5 wont change the landscape of the medium, but that is a lofty bill to complete. However, it is the product of two individuals who are clearly very passionate about the story they are telling and the work that they do. This translates to the page, as this latest installment of an already incredibly interesting series takes readers into some exciting new territory, while providing a whole lot of action and intelligent, thought-provoking material.

After such a long break, Aphrodite IX #6 felt slightly underwhelming. The story was further developed into some interesting areas, but there were moments of the book that didnt feel entirely relevant. While the artwork was definitely well done overall, its difficult not to make comparisons within the series; the first few issues were astonishingly breathtaking in their realism and beauty. Overall, though, this latest installment was an enjoyable read with some great visuals. Its exciting to have a radical shift in the apparent plot direction and the next issue is something to look forward to.

This is one of the top books available right now and it more than deserves your attention! The story is magnificently scripted and the artwork is phenomenal. While issue #7 was relatively one-dimensional compared to earlier installments, it actually came as a welcome change of pace. Overall, this was a great issue of Aphrodite IX and has certainly served up some intriguing prospects for the future of these characters.

Aphrodite IX has been an astonishingly deep read from the beginning with a very fresh story. Excitement was rampant in many respects through the latest installment making this one of the best books in the series so far. There were some heavy revelations for the story that should make readers even more intrigued to see how the plot will develop over time. This is a book that definitely deserves more attention, and issue #8 is a prime example of this.

Aphrodite IX is one of those series that has been nearly perfect in every single installment, yet hasnt seemed to receive the attention it deserves. As we come to a close far too soon, there are even more exciting developments on the horizon for Aphrodite and the rest of the IXs.

The final installment in the solo Aphrodite IX series has to be read to be believed. For anyone who mightve been skeptical about the upcoming title, this will surely change your mind quickly. It was a tidy wrap-up that could have received a greater build-up, but fans will hardly be able to complain once theyve read the wonderful new story developments to be found here. There may have been a panel or two that felt a bit rushed or incomplete, but as a whole, the visuals in this book stand above almost anything else found in the medium, providing some of the best illustrated and colored images around. This was a perfectly satisfying end that really sets up some interesting plot points to tackle in the future.

There are definitely people who love any story in the vein of Apocalypse Al, but this particular installment felt lacking in depth and substance. The artwork was pretty good, but not enough to make the book more exciting. This first issue wasnt awful in every respect, but there was definitely a strong sense of mediocrity and even boredom.

B.P.R.D. #108 is one of many terrific books to come from the Mignolaverse in recent months, but it is also arguably one of the best. The current arc is action-packed and suspenseful, relying less on difficult back story than is typical for this series. The overall feeling conveyed by this issue is perfectly suited for the tone of the current situation these characters now find themselves in. Wasteland is one of the relatively few arcs from B.P.R.D. which could be enjoyed by most readers, even those not previously familiar with the subject matter.

The latest installment in the B.P.R.D. saga was one of the most exciting issues from this series in a while. The deeper story built upon in the preceding issues of Wasteland was concluded in a very satisfying way, and a potential new plot direction has been thrown wide open leading to plenty of anticipation for future stories involving agent Howards. The artwork by Laurence Campbell fits this book so well; it would be terrific to see him in the Hellboy universe again sometime. Although this issue may not be particularly easy to follow for readers unfamiliar with the series, those of us who follow the exploits of the B.P.R.D. regularly got a real gem in issue #109.

B.P.R.D. #111 may not break any new ground, and it may not even add too much to the overall story of this series. However, it remains an enjoyable read that serves to emphasize the psychological and social aspects inherent to Hell on Earth. Its nice to see the character of Fenix fleshed-out a bit more, and it is wonderful to have Liz Sherman back in the fold. It is the brief glimpses of agent Howard, stalking the halls of the Bureau with his Hyperborean blade in tow, are really tantalizing! Many fans are really looking forward to seeing more of the ancient monster slayers last seen in the Abyss of Time arc, and its nice to get some tangible hints of this in current stories.

B.P.R.D. is still in the midst of Hell on Earth, but the current arc has slowed things down a bit. This isnt necessarily bad, as Mignola and associates are very deliberate in their pacing and the enormous plot they have constructed. However, the moments of excitement felt relatively few and far between in issue #112. Admittedly, the story was still pushed forward, however minutely. The most exciting aspects of this latest installment were the hints at future developments scattered throughout. Despite any minor misgivings with the pace of this issue, the story remained interesting and the creative team has never found themselves off-track whenever indulging in story arcs focused on specific characters.

There was too much in B.P.R.D. #113 to discuss in a single review. If youre following the Mignolaverse at all, this is an issue you definitely dont want to miss. I cant remember the last time the overall Hell on Earth saga was pushed forward in such a tangible and wide-ranging way within the confines of a single issue, and all of it was done in a very exciting and satisfying manner. The team hit all the right notes this month.

If youre a current fan of B.P.R.D., you know this is an issue to be excited for. For anyone who maybe hasnt read the series in a while, come back now! This is going to be an epic story arc, and one of the best Mignolaverse artists ever is on board. Issue #115 was well paced and exciting but things are gonna keep getting crazier in the next few months!

Fellow B.P.R.D. fanatics, make sure you're keeping up with the current story arc. Both issues have been astonishing so far, and the latest installment was among the very best from this series. Story progression, character development, action, mystery and horror, this book has it all. Mignola and company are on a roll and B.P.R.D. #116 shows that there is no sign of stopping or slowing.

So far, the Reign of the Black Flame arc has been among the very best in all of the B.P.R.D.s long history. Issue #117 was jam-packed with more action than typically expected but Mignola and Arcudi dont neglect the overall story for a moment. This is a really special arc, and the team dynamic is back in full force again with some fantastic new additions to the series. You sense the depths below you, but what swims there you dont know. Well put, Mr. Black Flame, well put.

Its always great when writers can pull off such an action-heavy issue without detracting from the overall plot development, and B.P.R.D. #118 manages to do this with finesse. This was a damn exciting issue in one of the best series out there, and an absolute must-read for any fan of the Mignolaverse.

While its been said here many times before, B.P.R.D. is one of the most incredibly consistent and high quality books being published. The Reign of the Black Flame arc is another perfect addition to the ever-expanding Mignolaverse that this team should be very proud of.

The latest installment of B.P.R.D. was yet another incredible addition to this always-amazing series. This particular issue felt quite different from the more recent story arcs which preceded it, but it was a great change of pace that resulted in an immensely enjoyable reading experience. Even though this is only the first part of the Devils Wings arc, it seems as though its already safe to say its a shame this one will be a short two issues.

This was a surprisingly exciting new turn for this long-running series that will intrigue fans both old and new. B.P.R.D. #122 could also open up some crazy new directions for the series, or at least for the current story. Either way, this one is shaping up to be another great addition to an always fantastic series.

In general, the creative teams working in the Hellboy universe often can do no wrong. The action, the suspense, and the horror were all executed spectacularly in Vampire #4. Although the writing is equally epic and poetic, there were a couple of scenes from this issue that ultimately felt confusing. However, the artists have really outdone themselves with this one, as every panel is just beautiful. Even though the ending was fairly ambiguous, it will still be interesting to see how the story is resolved next month!

As a whole, Vampire has been an incredible addition to the B.P.R.D. saga. On its own, the final issue was absolutely fantastic. This series got better with each installment and this didnt change for a single month. Even if youre not familiar with this huge universe, Vampire is a terrific horror comic book on its own. Although it will apparently be quite some time before we see another Anders mini-series, this issue still leaves the door wide open for the next book; it looks like the B.P.R.D. is set to hunt down Simon and put a stop to his grim machinations. Mignola books never fail to impress, but brothers B and Moon were a wonderful addition to the creative stable. Lets hope we see them lend their impressive skills to this world again in the future.

It was pleasantly surprising just how enjoyable this first issue was! The characters were interesting, particularly the protagonist who was quite engaging, and the book was filled with exciting action, sarcastic dialogue, and phenomenal visuals. Bad Ass #1 will catch your attention with its off the wall craziness, but the story itself has a lot of potential.

Chapel of Bones has been a highly anticipated installment in the saga of Baltimore and the first issue did not disappoint. Everyone involved is at the top of their game to create a masterfully cohesive book that works on every level. For fans of the character, this is an arc you dont want to miss.

Baltimore has been a wild ride, but things are clearly not over yet. The latest installment was perhaps the best issue in the series so far or at least among the very best. There was a ton of depth and the whole book was suitably epic. There are a couple of developments in this issue that were unexpected even for a series like this, and things are only going to get more wild in the future. If youve ever read any Baltimore, do yourself a favor and check out Chapel of Bones. This was a perfect close to this chapter in the saga of Lord Baltimore, but certainly not the last!

One of the great things that make Baltimore so accessible to new readers is the nature of its releases. Although previous arcs will certainly help readers better understand the overall plot and the history of its development, each new one-shot or mini-series serves as excellent stand-alone reading. The Infernal Train is no exception to this, despite the exciting tie-ins to earlier stories. The writing, the pace of the story, the overall tone, and the artwork are all terrific, as we have come to expect from the Mignola crew over at Dark Horse.

This creative team is known for consistently high-quality work, but The Infernal Train #2 had to be one of the most exciting issues of Lord Baltimores saga thus far. The story has continued to develop in an intriguing direction, while most of this installment was surprisingly action-packed and quick-paced. Mignola and company seem to hit all the right notes with this one, and it will be interesting to see how they wrap up the current arc next month.

The Infernal Train #3 was an excellent ending to a top-notch installment in the Baltimore series. The story was wrapped up in a thoroughly satisfying manner, while still providing new developments and mysteries to pull the reader in for the next arc. Mignola and company never disappoint, but this issue was better than expected. Aside from being one of the most exciting installments in Baltimores story, fans of the series wont want to miss the hefty developments solidified in this issue.

In the end, there didnt seem to be a heck of a lot of substance to this one, but it was definitely an intriguing introduction to a wonderfully creative new team of characters. What this lacks in depth, it makes up for in charm.

It should also be noted that this book includes a short backup feature entitled King Tiger. Written by Randy Stradley, with artwork and colors by Doug Wheatley and Rain Beredo, this felt a little out of place in the back of Blackout. The two stories feel vastly different. However, King Tiger was at least interesting with some amazing visuals. With only a few pages to introduce the story, it is a little unclear what this story will actually be, but it was at least an intriguing first look.

This series has started quite strong and the excitement in issue #2 will surely keep fans intrigued by this interesting and fresh story. The end of Blackout #2 was a great idea and a perfect direction for the book to cover, and the next installment will be all the more exciting for it!

The Bounce #1 was an incredibly pleasant surprise. It truly felt like a breath of fresh air. It feels very unique and new overall, while the familiar ideas and concepts have been revitalized and recast to fit with this feeling. The opening story, the characters, and the writing, along with all of the artwork felt perfectly done for this series. People interested in just about any type of comic book will likely find something for them in The Bounce. With such an exciting beginning this issue will probably be vociferously discussed among readers until we are finally sated with some potential answers next month!

Image Comics have been publishing some incredibly interesting and unique series. Many of these have come to be seen as ground-breaking. The Bounce is still early into its run but the team behind this book have given the character an excellent start. The series feels fresh while addressing seemingly familiar concepts. The story is different, which is never a bad thing within the world of comics. Some aspects of this story may not appeal to all readers but there are numerous hints that it is only going to grow in scope as the title progresses.

The latest issue hinted that Silver may know not only what is happening to the individuals with powers, but also about the other side seen in the first two issues. She is featured on the cover for #4 so it should be a doozy! If the intrigue supplied by her presence isnt enough to interest you further, just look to the excellent writing and magnificent art in The Bounce #3. Casey and company have crafted an incredible story of real people in unreal situations that has a ring of truth. Dont miss out on this fun, mysterious, intoxicated, bouncy ride through the increasingly bizarre world of Jasper Jenkins.

Although it would be great to get some greater explanation as to what is happening behind the scenes in the story, each issue has clearly been building to something big which cant simply be disclosed in its entirety so early on. Joe Casey has crafted an excellently intriguing and enigmatic tale that is exciting, mysterious, humorous, and very intelligently written which incorporates some terrific new ideas into familiar comic book territory. This is a series that will appeal to fans of nearly any genre.

Brain Boy is a fun book from Dark Horse, and the latest issue provided an enjoyable stand-alone experience which simultaneously expanded on the overall plot. It will be interesting to see where this story goes in the future as many elements currently remain cloaked in shadow.

Admittedly, many aspects of Brain Boy have been done before within the medium of comic book story-telling. However, there is something about the way each aspect has been pieced together with the rest of the book that makes it feel fresh and new. Issue #1 was not only a terrific introduction to this story, but was also an incredibly exciting and quick-paced initial installment. If the rest of this series maintains the sensibilities present throughout #1 then this is a book to watch out for.

Brain Boy is a wonderful new series with a lot of story under its belt considering only two issues have been released so far. However, there is a lot to be interested in here. This book has action, mystery, the supernatural, humor, and fantastic visuals; the whole package.

While there were moments where issue #3 felt off somehow, the latest installment of Brain Boy was still highly enjoyable. The artwork in this series never disappoints, while the story got some big developments that increased the scope and mystery of the plot much more than anticipated. Freaking centaur guys freaking centaur.

Chrono Commandos #1 is a great opening for this new series from a great up-and-coming publisher. Titan Comics is most definitely worthy of your attention, and Chrono Commandos should be one of their flagship titles. The story is classic, but also fresh and exciting; the dialogue is natural and well-suited to the genre and theme(s), while the art will surely blow you away! Be sure to check this one out.

Stuart Jennett is one beast of a comic-creator. His new book, Chronos Commandos, is a force to be reckoned with, as every aspect seems to be perfectly executed. The series feels fresh amidst the current landscape of the medium, while simultaneously possessing a nostalgia rooted in classic story telling of the pulp era. The plot is exciting, the art is flawless, and we always seem to be left with a wild cliff hanger ending leaving fans wanting more. With only two issues out, it's still apparent that this story is just going to get better.

Although issue #3 has made the story feel somewhat monotonous, that doesnt change the fact that it is still full of action and suspense. The artwork has quickly become some of my favorite in the medium, while the story retains a lot of potential. There are some strange things placed into Dawn Patrol #3, such as Peabodys hallucination in which he sees the Sarge as Crash Jordan, apparently a pulp action-hero familiar to the character. There isnt much else that describes what this single panel was really all about, but it hints at an interesting new aspect that may be covered in future issues.

While Stuart Jennett's Chronos Commandos has a lot of potential which remains untapped, the major plot has ground to a bit of a hault in recent months. The story hasnt really been pushed forward very much and the series is beginning to feel overly redundant. The artwork is as incredible as ever but it just isnt enough to save the increasingly weak story. Something different needs to happen to these characters in order for Chronos Commandos to retain its appeal.

While excitement about Chronos Commandos ebbed and waned over the course of Dawn Patrol, the latest issue has reignited an interest in the story being told. The characters feel likeable again, the dialogue was interesting, and the suspense was palpable throughout. The plot resolution was quite satisfying, while the artwork remains a force to be reckoned with. Furthermore, the next arc is now highly anticipated given the intriguingly cryptic hints provided at the end of issue #5.

This may be Clive Barkers first original comic book series created specifically for the medium, but he is by no means unfamiliar with this area, having brought a number of his creations and those of others to comic books in the past. His bizarre imagination really shines in Next Testament, and Miller seems to have been an ideal choice for collaboration given the quality writing contained within. The artwork is well suited to this surreal story and anyone reading issue #1 will surely want to tune in next month to find out what Wick is up to. Following the final panel, it is no wonder the first chapter was opened with the famous quote If God really existed, it would be necessary to abolish him.

Next Testament is itself truly a testament to unique story telling. The overall feel of the book and the dialogue arent like much else that you could be reading now. In a medium overcrowded with copycats and overused plots and themes, Clive Barker and the rest of the creative team have crafted something that deserves a place on your pull list amongst the legion of caped crusaders and pulp heroes. If you crave stories that are different and do more than provide a source of gratuitous action then you should definitely give this book a try.

Fellow long-time fans of Conan, you may rest easy. In this first installment of Conan the Avenger, the protagonist really feels true to the character that weve grown to love over so many years. The story perfectly transitions from the previous series, while still really pushing the latest plot forward in a brisk and exciting way. Cheers to this latest creative team for continuing to do justice to this character and his incredible world.

Conan fanatics can again breathe a sigh of relief as the creative team for Avenger demonstrates the first issue wasnt a fluke. This series has had a great start and things keep getting better. Issue #2 was action-packed, dark, and opened up some thrilling new possibilities for the character.

Criminal Macabre books are too often somewhat bland, but Eyes of Frankenstein #1 was a pleasant surprise. Although treading familiar ground, this book just felt more fun than previous stories. The sense of mystery set amidst the dark, gritty world of Cal McDonald, mixed with a subtly light-hearted undertone was very enjoyable and has set the bar higher for the next issue. The additional commentary on literature and classic horror stories was also excellently executed. Aside from the evolved story-telling apparent in this latest installment, this was one of the best looking Criminal Macabre books from recent arcs. If you have enjoyed these characters in the past, now is a great time to jump back into Cals world because things just got a whole lot better.

The Eyes of Frankenstein #2 was quite a fun issue. It is interesting to see how the dynamic of the Criminal Macabre series can so easily shift between light-hearted and grimly pessimistic. While most of this issue was concerned with the central characters regaining their bearings and formulating a new plan of action, there were some interesting surprises in the end.

There were some really exciting developments in the latest installment of Criminal Macabre; too many to discuss in one place, and we want to avoid spoilers! You should be reading this one. This is the most excited Ive been about Cal McDonald, and given some of the revelations in EoF #3, there could be some major changes in the future. Did I mention the ending was absolutely bonkers? No? The ending was absolutely bonkers. If you havent been reading the Eyes of Frankenstein arc, catch upon issues #1-2 and make sure to grab #3. Its a good time to be a Cal McDonald fan.

The latest installment in Criminal Macabre brought a surprisingly swift resolution to an overall terrific story arc. However, as with most arcs in this series, the ending brought a lot more questions than it did answers. The storytelling throughout the Eyes of Frankenstein mini-series was fantastic with some particularly deep dialogue. While much of this deeper introspection was absent from EoF #4, the story still explored some interesting new territory and laid the groundwork for future arcs.

While good things were expected from this book, Cryptozoic Man #1 exceeded expectations both in terms of writing and art. The visuals are magnificent, both elegant and creepy at the same time. The story thus far is presented with a great deal more depth than originally anticipated; every aspect of the plot is interesting and presented with an intelligent, poetic sensibility. This four-issue mini-series looks like it has a lot of ground to cover with its plot before the end, but given the introduction, Id say this team is more than capable of completing the task before them.

Skullkickers is not on the immediate radar for enough comic book readers. This series is adventurous, action-packed, humorous, fun, and deep all at once. Everything in this book stands out among the horde of other available titles, from the writing style to the visuals. With only two story arcs left to go, now is a great time to catch up on the trades and get ready for the next big development!

Even considering the impressive titles previously written by Rick Remender, Deadly Class #1 was a big surprise. This was a first issue that didnt feel like a first issue, and it worked spectacularly. Heavy exposition and tedious background information is cast off in favor of an engaging, exciting, and wildly intriguing story that works on every level. The characters are interesting, the plot is amazing, and the artwork is a new favorite. Theres something here that fans of any genre can enjoy!

This series has a great concept that was eagerly anticipated for a number of months. As an opening issue meant to grab the attention of new readers, the subsequent opinion is one of relative neutrality mixed with hopeful optimism. While the premise is interesting and quite unique, the anticipation for more substance was not fully accomplished. It remains to be seen what the protagonists will attempt to achieve in their final six months among the living, but there were definitely hints at interesting and potentially far-reaching plot developments and consequences in future issues. The story is brimming with potential, and a lot of the writing was executed with masterful precision. In the end, it is absolutely worth sticking with this series to find out what new territory it may cover.

Death Sentence #2 introduced a lot of new plot developments; the many exciting additions can scarcely be covered in a single review. However, there are many interesting new mysteries that have been presented this month involving a secret island, a clandestine group of G+ tracking agents, and an assortment of other story goodies. This series is really living up to its potential to do something different while maintaining a sense of depth and subtle sophistication.

Death Sentence is definitely different. Luckily, the story doesnt rely on gimmicks or shock value; this really is a well-composed story with twists and turns in the plot and some very interesting characters. Titan Comics have been releasing some really interesting work recently, but Death Sentence is definitely at the top of the list.

The story in the latest issue of Death Sentence felt a little slow but the book remained enjoyable overall. While the ending seemed overly ambiguous, it certainly hinted at big things to come for this series. One of the main features of this book that has been personally appreciated is the way in which the plot details the different ways that people deal with end-of-life situations, and this felt particularly prominent this month. This series remains quite unique and deserves your attention.

As a whole, personal feelings about Death Sentence tend toward the positive. The plot was very interesting and handled in a mature, often intelligent manner. The pacing felt a bit lacking in places, but this final installment of the initial run made up for the relative lack of high-thrills action. It will be interesting to see where this series goes in the future now that things have peaked.

East of West has certainly been a slow burn regarding the amount of detail provided surrounding the central plot up to this point. Despite this fact, it is incredibly satisfying to see various pieces of the puzzle snapped together with each passing month. The latest installment put a halt to the progression of the current tale and ignores the main protagonist all together. However, the introduction of the Ranger was very well-crafted and certainly quite interesting. This book has really carved out a niche of its own and issue #6 is full of the intriguing and intelligently-crafted story fans now anxiously await each month.

East of West remains a strongly written series with incredibly interesting characters and locales, and a vastly interesting plot unlike anything else out there. A slight increase in background information could have been all that was missing from issue #7, but as it is this issue felt murky overall, if still fairly enjoyable as a standalone read.

After eight issues, theres still really no telling where this story will go. Despite the consistently enigmatic nature of East of West, the ride has been terrific so far. Each issue offers something interesting and different. Its great to see the overall focus of the story shift back to the central players, and the artists involved again provide some high quality visuals to accompany this awesome story. Its been a good year for Jonathan Hickman, and this series must be at the top of his accomplishments for 2013! If youre not yet reading this bizarrely intriguing tale of futuristic, supernatural revenge and mystery, then catch up on the good reads with the rest of us; this is fresh storytelling at its finest.

The story in East of West has been told in a very enigmatic way while still keeping things enjoyable, and this trend continues in issue #9. However, this latest installment felt particularly engaging and the artwork was excellent. Great characters, interesting environments, bizarre story, and jaw-dropping artwork, East of West #9 has it all.

Admittedly, the ending of this issue felt somewhat confusing, at least at first. However, brief moments of this are to be expected in a book like East of West. Overall, this was one of the finest issues in the whole series up to this point. This latest installment really had everything from terrific story development, interesting character interactions, exciting action, and the usual dose of horror and mysterious intrigue.

Ok, so we got another issue that sort of slowed things back down and held back a bit regarding overall plot development. Its a shame when we dont get any scenes featuring Death, Crow, and Wolf, but there are many angles to cover in this series. The characters are all very well-written and the artwork is fantastic. It looks like things could really heat up next month!

While there were a few confusing moments in East of West #12, this has not only come to be expected from a Hickman story, but the rest of the book more than makes up for this. The story is definitely moving in some interesting directions and there is clearly a lot more interesting ground to cover in this world.

As a whole, this issue demonstrates some of the best traits of the creative team. Every aspect of this book has kicked up the pace of the overall story and really helped to rejuvenate reader excitement for the future of this series. This issue also opened up some excellent potential new directions for the characters, and fans should be particularly pleased with how this played out.

Image has been on a roll for a long time now and there are no signs of slowing. Moore and Storms tear right out of the gate to bring us a perfect opening issue to EGOs. Lets hope everybody had this one on their pre-order list for the month because if there is any justice for terrific artistic talent, this one will sell out quick! Get to your shop now if you havent already and pick up EGOs #1. It has a fantastic story delivered through pitch-perfect writing and magnificent artwork from a great new industry talent.

EGOs remains at the top of this reviewers reading list each month. As demonstrated yet again in issue #3, this is a phenomenal series with great story and writing, wonderful characters, and spectacular artwork. If youre looking for an epic sci-fi tale with action, sincerity and humor, look no further than EGOs.

Its unfortunate that we now have to suffer through an EGOs hiatus for a number of months! This series has been highly enjoyable and well-executed, but if you havent had a chance to catch up with the rest of us, be on the lookout for the first trade collection hitting shops this summer!

Overall, this first issue was a decent read. There wasnt an awful lot to get too excited about through the middle, grounding plot. However, the beginning and ending of this book were quite exciting and hint at some excellent developments to come in the near future. Finally, the artwork was really quite astonishing. The visuals in this book are of incredibly high caliber and it will be great to see what Getty and Blythe pull off once the story really gets crazy.

Hopefully this series will reach the inevitable point of the actual Empire rising but for now, the story doesnt do as much as it could to really grab your interest and maintain that hold. None of the characters have become particularly interesting yet and it remains to be seen how much can be accomplished with the current plot. Despite the negative criticisms, things could have been far worse. While the story hasnt offered a lot yet, the actual writing is decent, the story is fairly fresh, and the artwork is excellent.

While the overall story of this first installment left something to be desired, it cant be argued that it was a thrilling ride. This book has all the makings of a great pulp sci-fi series, particularly regarding the artwork. A lot of the dialogue really fits this dynamic as well. The frantic opening was quite a jolt, but it looks like the story has settled down on firm ground for a bit. Well have to wait until next month to see how this plays out!

If youre still not convinced, all that can be said is that youre really missing out on something special if you dont read this book. IDW has made it even easier for you to catch up on previous issues, but FAA #3 can easily stand alone as an independent read. Steve Niles passion for and understanding of the classic story of the monster that struggles with morality is unparalleled in any medium and this is tremendously clear in Frankenstein Alive, Alive! Aside from this, Bernie Wrightson is a living legend who continues to amaze in this series. This is a perfect book that demands everybodys attention.

As an enormous fan of the creators' previous work, it is disappointing to walk away from Furious #1 with such a sense of neutrality. The plot has the potential and the series will hopefully build in excitement and scope as the story progresses, but as an opening installment this book felt lacking.

Alright, so weve all seen comic books that deal with a first superhero type of story. However, Furious has begun to show that there is a lot more depth behind the character which makes for quite a compelling read regardless of genre. Furious #2 was a very full book that was immensely satisfying, and the story within has really started to barrel forward. A lot happened in the world of Cadence Lark this month and it will be interesting to see how things turn out.

While we didnt get quite as much in the way of more straight forward plot development as weve seen in the first two issues, the latest installment of Furious was a very enjoyable read. At first, the major conflict may appear a bit random, but everything comes together as the book progresses. The suspense in this issue was very effective. While the well-written thrills were enough to enjoy this book, the artwork keeps getting better with each new installment. The visuals in Furious #3 give a sense of growing comfort with this particular style which definitely made for an even greater reading experience. Given the crazy ending this month, there are sure to be some wild shenanigans in the future for this series!

Although the story doesnt appear particularly deep at this point, there is certainly a sense of the epic throughout the pages of God is Dead. The plot is fantastically interesting and different, and there is a ton of potential for something really special with this book.

Green Arrow #21 has opened the floodgates for an incredible tale to come. It is well known how much Lemire and Sorrentino have done to rejuvenate this series since their installment as creative team. However, the extent of this rejuvenation is really brought to the forefront in this latest issue. Previous fans of the character and those interested in giving it a shot will find #21 to be incredibly interesting and intriguing. Dont be surprised if there is an even greater influx of new readers next month.

Green Arrow is probably the best book currently being published by DC Comics main imprint. It maintains various facets that are central to classic superheroes, while simultaneously expanding the character into related but new areas. Issue #23 effectively continues the current story, tying up a few loose ends and also paving the way for a number of exciting new plot directions. The creative team behind this series continue to outdo themselves as the book progresses, and every month they show readers that they really understand the potential of this character like few have before.

Overall, this was a phenomenal piece of creative brilliance, both in terms of plot development and story pacing, as well as the visual aspects of the book. This creative team has demonstrated time and time again what others working with established major character properties should aspire to. Everything about this series feels fresh and unique, while still retaining appropriately subtle connections to the story background of crime, mystery, and superheroes.

Overall, this was just an excellent finish for this creative team. Arrow and company come out on top and there are plenty of exciting new directions left open for the next team. The writing in issue #34 was highly enjoyable throughout and provided a more than satisfying conclusion, while the visuals in this book are a phenomenon all their own. This is a very cohesive package of visual storytelling that really let this period of the character go out triumphant and with a lot of noise. Congratulations to Jeff Lemire, Andrea Sorrentino, and Marcelo Maiolo for an amazing run.

Hawkeye #16 was a cute issue with some fun dialogue, but it would be nice to see more from this series. However, the book was definitely an enjoyable read with some great humor that probably wont disappoint the Hawkeye fans.

To be completely frank, the only thing holding issue #1 back is the relatively lacking originality in the overall concept of the book. Admittedly, this type of story and setting has been done many times before. However, KMS already feels like it is among the best in the genre. The story, while not entirely unique, is shaping up to be quite interesting, the first installment was masterfully paced and scripted, and the artwork is phenomenal. If you enjoy action or horror with a bit of humor, do yourself a favor and give this one a chance.

Kiss Me, Satan is a great horror book laced with humor, dark and otherwise. The dialogue is excellent and makes the story even more fun than it could have been. Even so, the plot is developing at a good pace for a limited mini-series, and there are some really interesting mysteries yet to be concluded. However, the artwork is sure to shock fans of any genre; this is simply very high quality work in every respect. While there are a number of really good horror books from Dark Horse, this one is presented in a way that makes it feel different from the others.

Kiss Me, Satan! has been a surprisingly great read from the very beginning. Each issue pushes the plot forward in a meaningful way. Even if this development is accomplished relatively slowly from time to time, the overall story is always expanding and providing something new to pique readers curiosity. There are some really interesting additions to the plot which have really set this story apart from others like it. While the writing remains consistent and pleasantly enjoyable, the art alone is worth the price of admission. This is Ferreyra at the top of his game, something you do not want to miss!

It was fun to see a more human side of Barnabus Black this month and gain a bit more insight into his background. The visuals remain astonishing and some of my personal favorites. Kiss Me, Satan! has some excellent characters set amidst an interesting plot and the latest installment set things up nicely for the big finish. While issue #4 felt a little quick and minimal, KMS has consistently been an enjoyable read from the first book.

It wouldve been nice to have an ending with a bit more depth, but thats not to say this story didnt end in a satisfying manner. There was a ton of action, the bad guys were slain, and the good guys seem to have emerged relatively unscathed. The final issue was certainly an epic conclusion and it would be great to see another mini-series from this title.

Legends of Red Sonja #1 had a decent story as a standalone book, but the overwhelming inconsistencies throughout the issue became a bit much. To be fair there was a large number of contributing artists involved in this issue, but the overall sense by the end was one of ambivalence.

Overall, there isnt a great deal of plot that has been revealed yet in A Scent of Lotus #1, yet the entire issue remains engaging and interesting. There is intrigue and mystery, along with the expected bursts of action that typically accompany the Lobster and his crew wherever they go. The story is being developed in an interesting way, with a particularly bizarre ending that will surely keep readers around to find out what the creative team have planned for issue #2. Finally, the artwork is stunning and fits this title like one of the Lobsters gloves. If youre a fan of pulp mystery, the Hellboy universe, or Mignola books in general, be sure to check out the latest addition to Lobster Johnson.

Overall, this was a great installment in the Lobster Johnson title. This book is a great departure into the realm of pulp action for the Mignolaverse that retains the bizarre elements we all love about the world of Hellboy. This particular mini-series seems like it will go a lot deeper into the title character than previous stories, but at the very least were definitely in for an exciting read.

As a long-time fan of anything with Mignolas name on it, it was still surprising to see just how terrific this latest issue of Lobster Johnson was. This really was a perfect book that hit all the right notes for any fan of this character. This issue has action, excitement, a ton of intriguing mystery, and really started to provide some very interesting potential backstory for the Lobster himself. This was both a perfect Mignolaverse book and also a perfect pulp-action book, and easily among the very best yarn featuring Lobster Johnson.

The artists involved in the Mignolaverse never slow down! Get the Lobster has been yet another worthy addition to the mythos of this fan-favorite character. The pulp feel of Lobster Johnson is at its peak this month, and this was a damn exciting issue overall.

Its kind of a given that anything from the Mignolaverse is going to be excellent, but the latest Lobster Johnson miniseries has really started to branch out into some interesting directions for this character. While issue #4 was a little lighter on overall plot development, there was a lot to enjoy about this book. This was another exciting addition that flowed perfectly, and had some great surprises and plenty of action.

Overall, while the dialogue was not particularly poignant, it accomplished the goal of conveying the story, which had a surprising amount of depth for a standalone issue. The artwork was perfect for the genres being worked with here. If youre a fan of Mike Mignola and company you will probably enjoy Satan Smells a Rat. Also remember that there is another two-part Lobster Johnson mini-series coming next!

While the overall plot isnt particularly new or ground breaking, Magneto is a very enjoyable series featuring a great main character. As already mentioned, this is probably one of the darker books to come from Marvel right now, and the creative team is definitely effective in conveying this tone in every respect. The current mystery of Magneto was really deepened in this latest installment and it will be interesting to see where things go from here.

This remains an enjoyable series, but it feels like the full potential of the character and story have yet to be tapped. The slower plot development has been subtly hinting at something greater on the horizon but lets hope we can get there sooner rather than later.

While personally not typically a big follower of the Marvel universe, the Punisher series has been a lot of fun and is off to an amazing start. This character allows writers to tell a much more no-holds barred story, and this aspect of Frank Castle has been put to good use so far. The grounded story feels like a classic action movie with characters that actually feel like real people, and the artwork is simply incredible. Get on board with this series now while its still early!

Quantum and Woody is a hilarious series that is sure to do well. There really arent enough humorous comic books out right now, and even fewer that are done right. This series is both of these things, and also provides action and intrigue. The writing is natural and fun, and the artwork is excellent. Valiant has yet to stumble with any of their books and it looks like Quantum and Woody will maintain their prolific awesomeness!

Rat Queens #1 is one of the most sincerely funny comic books you could be reading this month. However, if you were to remove the generous dose of humor from its pages, this book would still have a wonderful story that would maintain its interesting qualities. That really seems like a hallmark for an incredibly well-crafted tale. While the quality of the humor vastly exceeds that found elsewhere, the plot is capable of standing on its own. Not only are the characters incredibly interesting, but the general sense of high adventure which underlines this book makes for a very fun read.

If you arent reading Rat Queens yet, youre only doing yourself a disservice. Given the quality of work in every aspect of this book, the sales figures are sure to look good without you! That being said, this really is one of the most perfect comic books to come out in recent memory. This character-driven tale is outrageously funny, while still having an interesting story that has real substance to it. Rat Queens has quickly become this reviewers new favorite ongoing title, but thats not to say it doesnt deserve every ounce of praise heaped on this issue. With the story gradually opening up even more, there are some really interesting developments to look forward to. Do yourself a favor and pick up this book, theres something here for everyone.

Rat Queens is one of the best books being released. The humor is beyond anything else in the genre, and the characters have a ton of personality and charm. As stated many times before, this series would still be highly enjoyable even if the humor was absent, and issue #3 is an even better example of this; the humor has been toned back relative to previous installments, while there were definitely some more serious scenes, yet the whole thing worked to perfection and still maintained its overall tone. This is a book everybody should be reading.

If youre not yet reading Rat Queens, is it because you hate fun? It must be since theres really no other reason! This is an amazing series that hits all the right notes in every issue. Rat Queens #4 was another standout installment in the saga of these foul-mouthed, hard drinking, orc killing, and apparently drug-making ladies.

Alright, I think we all know by now that Rat Queens is a perfect comic book. Month after month, this relatively new series has blown us away with its exciting story, lovable characters, and hilarious jokes. Both Wiebe and Upchurch definitely executed every aspect of issue #5 with perfection. Swords and sorcery, drugs and comedy, this one has it all! The hints of backstory weve started to get on the Rat Queens themselves have been quite interesting, and the brief glimpse in this issue was particularly intriguing. After all of the excitement and laughter, the book still manages to close with a mysterious hook for the next arc. If youre still not reading this series, what the heck are you waiting for?!

Again, Red City #1 was quite a pleasant surprise. At this preliminary stage, the creative team has done a fantastic job of blending the science fiction and detective aspects of this series, and the story is already throwing unexpected developments at us. Theres a lot to enjoy about this one, and Red City will likely appeal to fans of a wide range of genres.

With the ending introduced in issue #2, Red Sonja now seems to be doing a 180 right back into similar territory to that already covered in recent issues of the previous volume. Although the art has improved, the story being crafted is frighteningly bland and overly typical for the genre. There isn't really anything in this story that really makes you want to tear through to the end, let alone find out what happens next month. All of the praise this book has been garnering for its opening issue was a bit confusing after two months of mediocre story-telling. Those who really enjoy it so far may want to go back to the first omnibus collection and see the potential this character really has.

Alright, so personal feelings about this book were a little confused at first. Like the recent TV series, Spartacus: Blood and Sand, this first issue felt big on crass behavior and shock value, but short on depth and story. However, as things progress, it gradually becomes apparent that there is a lot more going on behind the scenes of this initial setup. It seems as though there are two sides to this series, and weve just gotten a brief glimpse of the heavier side of things. The artwork is amazing and the story did show a lot of potential. It will be interesting to see where this one goes.

Action, humor, emotion, everything is here. Rise of the Magi is off to a very exciting start and we havent even seen Asa interacting with our world yet! There is a lot more depth to the story so far compared to what many people may assume, and the visuals are pretty amazing. This series feels unique and full of imagination, and it will be really exciting to see where things go from here.

Saga is more than worthy of all of the awards and praise it has received, and the latest installment avoids any deviation from the excellence that has come to be expected from this book. Although the central plot has seemingly remained in place for a couple of months, each issue remains perfectly consistent in its delivery of powerfully emotional and particularly heart-felt moments. This really is one of the best titles currently available; unique, exciting, humorous, powerfully deep, and beautiful are all applicable descriptors in this case.

There were so many funny moments in Saga #15, but the story maintains its heartfelt emotional tone. One of the interesting factors involved in Sagas mass appeal has to be the fact that even the bad guys are likeable. Although the overall plot has slowed down, it remains highly enjoyable to witness the wonderful character interactions and developments from both sides of the story.

Firefly fans, rejoice! The long hoped for return of these characters is off to a very successful start. Leaves on the Wind #1 will please both long-time fans of the franchise and even new-comers that may not be particularly familiar with it. Knowledge of both the show and sequel film will definitely come in handy, but Serenity will likely be a fun read regardless of this.

This creative team have definitely done right by the source material so far. Leaves on the Wind #2 was exciting, emotional, and moved the story forward in a number of interesting ways. Whether or not youre a fan of Firefly, this is a really fun book with a great story. Get on board the good ship Serenity!

Leaves on the Wind has been a really fun book and issue #3 more than kept up with previous installments. The story is exciting and engaging, the characters and dialogue are a perfect match for the original Firefly and Serenity, and there is never any slack given to the plot development. This will definitely be an enjoyable read for both old and new fans.

Leaves on the Wind has been a wonderful continuation of a widely praised franchise, and the creative team have definitely continued to do justice to the world of Firefly. Despite any minor criticisms, issue #4 was a fun read that really helped push the plot forward. The ending was incredible and will likely lead to some intense action in the future as we quickly approach the penultimate issue. It should also be noted that in the letters section, there is talk of starting work on another miniseries to continue from this one! Huzzah!

Serenity: Leaves on the Wind is a damn fun series that will appeal to both long-time Firefly fans, and those of you who continue to miss out on this classic story. Issue #5 was probably the most action-packed in the series and it only looks like things are gonna get crazier next month!

While the book was still pretty fun and the visuals were quite good, the overall execution of this one was a bit of a flop. It almost felt like a lot of the series ended up being somewhat pointless as everything was cleaned up so neatly and with such relative ease. Again, this is not to say the book was unenjoyable as a whole. However, there really should have been more to this. Luckily, we're set for another Serenity miniseries sometime in the future, and the end of Leaves on the Wind opened some potentially exciting new directions.

As a whole, this was just a damn perfect book. While only two issues in, this series is probably one of the absolute best DC is currently publishing. There isnt enough that can be said about what a top-notch job the creative team have done on this one, and we can already tell its going to be one heck of a ride. While the series will probably be intimidating for anybody not familiar with the long Lantern history masterminded by Geoff Johns, this is a comic book masterpiece that deserves your attention.

While not as intense overall as preceding installments, Sinestro #5 was another terrific part of this relatively new series. The creative team continues to make this an interesting read that feels both familiar and unique, and the latest issue includes a couple of great plot developments. It remains to be seen exactly where this one could go, but things are looking good so far.

Although the Tavern Tales released in between story arcs are often irritating breaks from the main story, the latest installment really provided something new to the saga of Skullkickers. Although each tale remained very brief and without tremendous depth, they were funny and served to reinforce the history of each character featured in this wonderful series. Furthermore, the cover of this particular issue, a throwback to the original Watchmen series, was one of the best spoof covers they have used!

Jim Zub and crew have been moving towards some really great areas with this story, and the current arc has really paid off so far in this regard. Skullkickers #27 was another fun and exciting installment in an already terrific series.

Sledgehammer 44 is definitely one of the coolest titles in the Mignolaverse, and that is really saying something given the high quality typically associated with Mignola and company. Lightning War has started off in a fairly unexpected, but wholly satisfying way. True to typical form for these gentlemen, the book was full of deeper introspection accompanied by equally substantial writing and seriously impressive artwork. Now that the action has gotten started, it will be interesting to see how far the team goes with the Hammers backstory throughout the course of Lightning War. Either way, were surely in for a wild ride.

Sledgehammer 44 is a really interesting story; while most of the books in the world of Mike Mignola are veiled in mystery, the protagonist of this series is particularly enigmatic. The more cryptic elements consistently surface with interesting allusion, while Lightning War #2 also emphasized the raw action. This was a highly satisfying issue that has me really looking forward to the big showdown next month, which will be just in time for the Black Flames return to the flagship B.P.R.D. title!

Sledgehammer 44 always provides for a great story, and Lightning War has really highlighted the depth that can be achieved with this character. We recently caught up with Laurence Campbell to chat about working in the Mignolaverse (check it out here), and we were quite pleased to hear hed be returning for more B.P.R.D. If youre a fan of the Hellboy universe, or just great comic books in general, check out Lightning War.

Solar: Man of the Atom #1 was definitely a big surprise. Some of these classic character revivals can be fairly hit or miss, but this one was a big hit. The story is so interesting so far that you easily forget any similarities with other characters out there, allowing you to focus on the uniquely fresh plot that Barbiere has begun to unfold. This was a fantastic issue in all respects and has the potential to move far beyond the typical superhero story; this is one to watch out for!

Although the artwork was fantastic, full of rich detail and well-executed lighting effects, the actual story in this first installment was a little disappointing. True, this is only the opening of the story, but it wouldve made more sense to have this series take place during the time of the current season of the show. As it stands, there is no indication that this is the case and some aspects of the book clash with what is currently happening on TV. Overall, the characterizations were well-done and felt consistent with the popular series. There are some interesting things happening in issue #1, but future issues will decide how closely this book sticks to the source material and whether or not this story will directly tie-in to the TV show. Whether or not this ends up being the case, the creative team seem to be setting up an intriguing tale of crime and revenge.

Even aside from all of the action and excellent writing, the story itself is developed with precise pacing that made the entire issue both exciting and satisfying. The creative team is back on track like never before, reminding us why Dawn of the Jedi has been one of Dark Horses most popular Star Wars titles. While this is the third arc in the series, the writers seem to make an effort to allow Force War to be accessible to new readers without simply rehashing earlier events. However, if you have been keeping up with this title, you definitely dont want to miss out on Force War; after many months of waiting, excitement for this series has been re-ignited like never before.

Starlight #1 was definitely a pleasant surprise. This book has fun adventure while also retaining a strong sense of realism and emotion in terms of character interactions and development. If youre looking for something that feels different from most other titles currently available, Starlight may be a good place to search.

Starlight #2 was a really fun book from start to finish. This series has been off to a tremendous start with its first two installments, and things are only going to get crazier! The story is engaging and interesting, and the characters feel real with very sincere interactions. The subtle humor throughout adds a lot to an already interesting story. This is a book that will be enjoyable for fans of any genre, especially those who like the classics!

Although this book often felt like it bit off more than it should have for a one-shot story, Station to Station definitely brought a sense of the epic to single issue story-telling. The entire book is incredibly action-packed and fast paced, and there are some tremendous ideas presented throughout. The writing could have been better organized and accompanied with more explanation, but again, this is a result of trying to tackle such a big story with so few pages.

Black Bat may seem like just another pulp-revival but this is one that really deserves your attention. Dynamite Entertainment has been doing a great job of doing justice to these classic characters. This is, of course, thanks to the excellent creative teams working on these books, who present the timeless vigilantes as they are meant to be, while providing a modernized take on their stories through the medium of modern comic book story-telling.

Overall, Black Bat is something that Dynamite should be proud of, even among the horde of other classic pulp characters in their stable. Brian Buccellato is a fantastic writer who truly understands how to properly pace a comic book. His interpretation of this vintage hero is ideal for the world of modern superheroes. The artistic team of Ronan Cliquet and Mat Lopes also really seem to understand how to properly convey the feel of this characters story, as well as pulp action and mystery in general. If youre wondering which of the many pulp action options to choose from for your pull list, Black Bat should definitely be at the top.

Compared to previous issues, Black Bat #4 was a bit slow. Taken for what it is though, the issue served to fulfill the backstory of the protagonist and, although not until the very end of the book, introduce an entirely new aspect of the plot. Overall, this series maintains its position as one of the top pulp-action comic books currently being produced. Brian Buccellato has assured readers that establishment of the central story elements will be swift, but as yet there are no worries regarding this; Buccellato is a master of story pacing and really seems to understand how to craft an interesting tale within a timeless genre.

Overall, the Black Bat may not appear to vastly differ from the many other pulp titles currently being produced. However, as always, it is best to follow the artists as opposed to the characters In this case, this philosophy has paid off given Buccellatos excellent sense of pacing and overall story-telling. There are other books that may be somewhat similar in terms of background, but the creative team on Black Bat know how to make a pulp book that stands out. Although it would be great to see the story progress a bit more swiftly, each issue has something new to add to this characters story.

The latest installment in the Black Bat series was one of the best issues of the book in recent months. The entire issue was thrilling with excitement and intrigue around the corner of every panel. The fast-paced nature of issue #6 made for a gripping read without sacrificing story development. This is the direction the character has been crafted for. Buccellato has paced the series with masterful precision and there are some big pay-offs for readers this month.

The Black Bat has been an interesting take on the concept of vigilantism but the story could use some additional exposition at this point. The cast of characters and their motives continue to become murkier, which made issue #7 more confusing than it could have been. However, the artwork is a shining example of what pulp comic books should look like. Furthermore, the protagonist remains an enjoyable character to follow and the story still has plenty of potential. It was interesting to see a number of cops questioning why the department is covering up for one of their own while casting the Bat as the villain; this was a fairly unexpected dynamic which will hopefully continue in future issues.

The Dream Merchant #1 has given this new mini-series an excellent start that is sure to rope in a number of new readers. The potential for heightened character introspection is immense, and I can't wait to see what is happening to Winslow's world! The only concern over stories involving a dream-world is the greater possibility that the writer could resort to a deus ex machina type ending. Let's hope this is avoided and the series remains as interesting as its opening issue was.

The Dream Merchant #1 presented a lot to live up to. The first issue was a tremendously interesting endeavour and great things were to be expected following such a successful introduction. The latest issue proves that this was no fluke, and the creative team have really put a lot of effort into devising the plot and crafting a story that, thus far, is playing out spectacularly from month to month.

This series has some excellent underlying ideas that have previously been well executed, so dont let this one issue throw you off. It seems to be a bit of a stutter given the wonderful momentum delivered by the opening installments. This series can surely deliver what the plot has seemed to promise, but this issue had some fairly lofty expectations attached to it which werent entirely satisfied. An issue from any title that doesnt serve to move the story forward or further develop important characters can be a disappointment, but it can be even more damaging to include such a chapter in a mini-series. Stick with this book until next month because the nightmares surely cant be held back much longer.

Manhattan Projects #14 doesnt necessarily change the landscape of the medium on its own, but it certainly carries this sensibility from earlier issues. While we have become much more familiar with this absurd tale that initially felt like nothing else out there, it remains consistently well-developed and well-paced. Every issue adds something new and exciting to the story which is what all writers and other artists should aspire to. The story of this strange team keeps getting bigger with each passing month and there is no telling just how far the creative team might take it!

Issue #15 of the Manhattan Projects is a terrific addition to this already incredible series. A return to the Oppenheimer conflict has been greatly anticipated following the initial installment, and this latest issue surpassed its predecessor. The world-building was amazing, particularly given how little readers have actually been treated to this aspect of the story. There is practically a whole mythology inside of this one characters head and it provides an excellent change of pace for this already consistently interesting title. Full of suspense, intrigue, and action, issue #15 was an epic chapter in the saga of one of the wackiest books you could be reading.

While issue #16 left a bit to be desired, it was another good addition overall. There were some interesting developments hinted at towards the end of the issue, but it seemed like too much of the beginning didnt feel perfectly necessary to move the story forward. Regardless, this series has been on a steady path since the beginning and the overall feel of Manhattan Projects #16 was consistent with previous issues.

The latest issue of the Manhattan Projects is definitely one of the best in a while, potentially a new favorite from the series overall. Everything about this issue flowed incredibly well and the story was exciting throughout. Fans of the series will be pleased to see another top-notch effort by this amazing creative team.

Overall, this first installment of The Mercenary Sea was just very boring. At least personally, there was nothing to like about this book. The few great visuals werent enough to recover from the surprisingly bland writing. Maybe this series will develop a solid story, but this didnt feel like a great way to bring in new readers. As an introduction to the title, this book didnt really offer anything to get excited about or interested in.

Overall, The Owl should make for a great mini-series. There are an increasing number of both new and revived pulp titles out right now, but this book is at least quite well-plotted and the artwork is phenomenal relative to most of the genre.

This story is pure poetry for the mind. The graceful words combined with the deeply cosmic images will make your heart soar as you venture through the astronomical and the subconscious. As the original Sandman books from Vertigo changed the landscape of comics before, Sandman: Overture feels like it has the same potential. Thank you to the creative team for bringing this beloved story back to our lives with new adventures and mysteries of the mind. Sandman: Overture #1 was wildly whimsical, dark, and deeply intelligent in every respect. If you havent read the original series, its time to catch up on the ten trade paperback collections so that you can relish in the sheer power and beauty of Overture with the rest of us.

Sandman: Overture #2 is a true masterpiece. The story is unlike anything else with absolutely perfect writing that magnificently captures the deep, thought-provoking tone of the plot. Everything about this book is creative and unique while still providing a story that is engaging and exciting. Furthermore, the artwork has to be some of the best available in any visual medium. The actual images are beautiful and powerful, interesting and detailed, with overall designs and layouts that are unmatched by any contemporaries. Basically, if you aren't reading Overture, I'm not sure we can be friends.

Beauty, sadness, joy, cleverness, cuteness, darknessSandman Overture #3 covers the full spectrum of wonderful story-telling. Both the writing and the visuals in this book are unlike anything else and will shock and amaze fans of any genre. It is very difficult to convey the true brilliance of this book in a review, and it is truly something that must be experienced to be believed.

The story was a very well-crafted one-shot tale which was certainly an enjoyable read on its own. Admittedly though, these annual issues dont necessarily provide any new plot development to the ongoing series, nor do they really attempt to cover any new ground in terms of story-telling. This isnt a flaw in the creative team; it is simply the nature of writing a standalone story involving a proto-typical action hero in his standard setting. The visuals are relatively mediocre, but they get the job done. The Shadow Annual 2013 may not break any new ground or dazzle readers with its seemingly rushed illustrations, but if youre a fan of the character, this is at least a well-written story that provides a fun read.

All things considered, The Shadow #13 is a likely candidate for one of the best in the series so far. The initial plot set-up easily lends itself to a giddy anticipation between issues, and the exciting nature of this mystery will likely hold its ground as a great reread upon a return to the arc. The creative teams that have gotten the privilege of working on this timeless character have not disappointed long-time fans and this certainly remains the case with #13.

The world of the Shadow is nothing new, but this freshly modern take on the character provides some interesting potential new directions. How will this timeless vigilante deal with the world of modern crime? How effective will the Shadow Network remain? The inclusion of both new and classic elements was fused in a great way that worked on every level. The story thus far, as seen in The Shadow Now #1, isnt anything revolutionary for the world of pulp-action tales, but its certainly an excellent addition to the already terrific catalogue of books capturing this characters heroic exploits.

The Wake is becoming a very deep tale of evolutionary mystery, and science-fiction horror. Sean Murphys art lends a fittingly haunting tone to this book. Although there are many flashbacks employed throughout, each from a different time period, they are not overused or confusing. The main story has taken place in a fairly isolated locale, and the sections where we see prehistory and the future are not only a refreshing change of pace, but further serve to explain the central plot in a very effective way. Oh, right, the Moon blows up in the future at the end of the book. There are so many places Snyder can go with this story, its almost a shame that it will only last for 10 issues.

With three issues down, its safe to say The Wake just keeps getting better. Given the ever-expanding central plot, along with the many snapshots of past and future found throughout the series, there are a number of interesting directions the creative team could take with this one. Its a deep story which is incredibly well-written, and so many intriguing points have been revealed. Aside from all of the required plot-building previously needed to tell this fantastic tale, The Wake #3 manages to be one of the most suspenseful and immersive books Ive come across in some time.

For an opening installment, White Suits #1 was a great start for this series. Theres clearly a lot more to be covered, but this book does a great job of building interest and the visuals were absolutely terrific. This issue felt different in all the right ways without relying on shock or the absurd; definitely a strong beginning.

The White Suits is a bit odd to be sure, but its all part of the mystery. The heavy noir sensibility and surreal tone will intrigue readers, while this latest issue provides much firmer ground for following the plot.

The White Suits has been a bizarre thriller from the very beginning, but this latest installment was the most action-packed issue yet. The protagonists have finally moved against the Suits with some unlikely allies, but can they keep this ill-fated plan from going off the rails? Issue #3 really set things up nicely for the closing issue still to come, and it looks like things could go either way at this point!

This first installment of Witcher was a fantastic read, even for somebody who has no familiarity with the franchise, and especially if youre also a fan of the Mignolaverse. The strange and unique mythology slowly introduced was very intriguing to say the least and the story was just a lot of fun. It can be difficult to properly balance dark and fun, but this is accomplished with great precision in issue #1. This was a great book in terms of both story and artwork that everybody should check out.

This mini-series has been surprisingly enjoyable and Paul Tobin has done an excellent job of writing a story based on an already established franchise, while still making it accessible to newcomers. The book is fun and exciting, and the visuals are terrific. It will be really interesting to see where the plot goes next after the strange cliffhanger ending this month!

While The Woods mightve done more to engage readers in the plot, this is certainly shaping up to be one heck of a mystery that will surely unfold more as the story progresses. However, it needs to get there quickly as there wasnt a lot offered up in issue #1 to really hold onto. Still though, this one has a lot of potential in it's oddly random story, and the visuals were excellent.

Overall, the story for X-Files Season 10 is off to a good start. It is definitely interesting and most fans will probably be looking forward to finding out just what is going on. Those who werent already long-time fans of the franchise may not be as willing to wait out the plot given the relatively lackluster dialogue and artwork. Hopefully the mysterious conspiracies the main characters become involved in are enough to maintain an enjoyable book. The truth is out there at least in small snapshots once a month.

Overall, The X-Files has so much potential that were just starting to see seep into the pages of the comic book adaptation. Given the lengthy buildups typically found throughout the source material, and the fact that the creative team have only released two issues so far, it is safe to say that this series is off to quite a good start. Aside from a few fairly minor issues, the story being crafted here is shaping up to be something magnificently mysterious and exciting. It feels both wholly new for these characters, while simultaneously employing a host of the classic X-Files trappings that make people love this series.

Judging by the first installment this series is going to be unique and full of depth; and while issue #1 was truly amazing, the real excitement comes from the potential this story has. Gillen is clearly very passionate about the story he is telling and this translates well in the book itself. It remains to be seen where the story will really begin next month now that the initial introductions are apparently complete. Wherever this story is taken, however the plot proceeds, it looks as though Image Comics have done it again. Gillen's writing is a breath of fresh air, full of sincerity and depth, while the art of Kelly and Bellaire is perfectly suited to not only the subject matter at hand but the overall tone of the story. Three is a series to look out for and readers can surely expect great things from this excellent creative team.

Three #2 was an astonishing book. There was so much story background and development packed into a single issue without feeling cluttered or overburdened in any sense. The story has become even more absorbing as the reader is allowed to become involved from multiple angles. Three has a certain flavor in its presentation, particularly the overall story, which feels pleasantly different. While its always exciting to see what comes next, each scene in this latest installment felt satisfying in its own right, omitting any potential filler material. The plot is moving at an excellent pace while it just keeps getting bigger and more wide-ranging. Three has action, emotion, drama, and a lot of intelligence. While the series had a terrific start, issue #2 has set the bar even higher.

Along with a small handful of other titles from Image Comics, Three is among those rare comic books that typically feel perfect in every way. Issue #4 demonstrates how a comic book should be paced and organized, and the quality of writing, illustrations, and colors is above and beyond what is typically expected. This is a deeply intelligent series that doesnt rely on heavy exposition or an overabundance of overt explanation. Instead, the story pulls the reader in and shows them how these characters might have actually interacted with one another. Three #4 accomplishes the lofty feat of authenticity and emotional impact in one fell swoop and the story developments were fantastic. This is a series to keep an eye on, and if youre not already reading it, get on that!

While there were some minor personal issues with some relatively minor aspects of this book, Three #5 was generally a terrific close. While it would be wonderful to see more from this creative team on this very title, they told a damn fine story and pulled it off well in every respect. This last issue had some particularly powerful moments and the parallels with the battle of Thermopylae provided a fantastic framework to end the story. Overall, this was another great book in a series that was far too short!

Trillium is a beautiful new mini-series, both in terms of visuals and story-telling. It was originally intended to be a love story, albeit in a relatively bizarre setting, but this aspect seemed elusive in the incredible first installment. However, the beauty of Trillium really begins to shine through in issue #2. Aside from this, the story is wonderfully inventive, intriguing, and mysterious and will surely be recalled as one of the greats from Vertigo.

Trillium is just an amazing series. The story is unlike anything else and, while it remains enigmatic and very mysterious, each issue is easy to follow and magnificently paced. The latest was no exception, while providing a slight change of pace for the book and introducing a whole array of new problems for the characters to deal with. The story is unfolding slowly but with masterful precision. With only five issues left, there are sure to be some huge developments in the near future. This is one series that everybody needs to be reading.

Trillium #4 was yet another great issue in this astonishing, wild, and fresh story. There were some huge events and, while the story was moved forward, the mystery deepened again! The cliffhanger ending will surely leave readers guessing what will come next.

Again, Trillium #5 didn't seem to push the overall plot forward in grand leaps. However, the enigmatic nature of this story has mired readers in confusion since the beginning, yet Lemire's writing and story pacing have somehow kept the book engaging and incredibly interesting. This is truly masterful organization of the various story elements, with each issue offering a tantalizingly obscured glimpse of the truth behind Trillium.

However, there wasnt much draw to the series following this first installment. The story is somewhat bland, and there isnt really anything new here. For what it is, it was admittedly well-written, but lets hope the story gets deeper in the next issue.

Undertow is a fantastic miniseries and things continue to barrel forward in a truly exciting way with issue #4. There is a lot of power and depth to this story, and the plot is really branching out in some interesting directions. Orlando and Trakhanov have a real hit on their hands, as far as this reviewer is concerned, and as the end approaches, we can only hope that well see more of this world in future additions.

For a story that showed a ton of promise in the beginning, the admittedly interesting and eye-catching visual style employed in Undertow #6 made this finale a tough one. It seems like the general plot worked out for the best in the end, but it would have been a much more enjoyable read if it were easier to follow. A re-read of this one will certainly be in order, probably going back to the very beginning and taking extra care to familiarize yourself with each character name for better accessibility in the later books.

Overall, it just didnt feel like there was anything to get very excited about after reading this first installment. Yes, the story has just started, but the hook was missing. An overabundance of dandelions is hardly an interesting preliminary conflict, and this was apparently meant to be the height of the book. The plot just felt bland throughout, which was in stark contrast to the wonderful visuals. It is highly likely this series could get a lot better given the creators working on this one, but for now, it is difficult to recommend.

The legacy of Witchfinder is definitely in good hands with this creative team. The Mysteries of Unland arc is off to a great start, and this could potentially be the best Edward Grey story yet. Even if you arent familiar with the character, you will definitely find something to enjoy about this book.

While this issue may not have been as exciting as usual, the latest installment in Witchfinder was a fairly enjoyable read that keeps the mystery rolling forward. This was a very creepy issue that does a terrific job of employing some classic horror elements.