Mark Tweedale Comic Reviews

This issue is up there with the very best Hellboy tales, but even still, I struggle to think of a single one with the range of tone found in this issue.

I never thought I'd give any story a 10, but I couldn't in good conscience give this anything less. This is a masterpiece.

Sit up and pay attention. The Matts are making something special here.

"Into the Silent Sea" is among the very best stories in Mignola's Hellboy Universe. Gary Gianni's work here is masterful.

C'mon, you've totally gotta pick up this book.

If you're ever a guest in my home, it'd only be a matter of time before you'd be dragged over to one of my bookcases so that I could introduce you to "The Sixth Gun". It's a damn fine comic, one that I will always love.

And since it's the first part of the trilogy, I get the feeling that there will be more in this book after I read The Stone Heart (the second volume), and more again when the final volume comes out. So as I offer my final verdict, keep in mind that it's not really final at all. Ask me again what I think of this book after volume three is out.

"The Nameless City" trilogy is an absolute triumph.

"The Stone Heart" is a sequel that upstages its predecessor"a truly rewarding reading experience, one I'm already eager to indulge in again.

Leonide the Vampyr: A Christmas for Crows isn't just an excellent Christmas read; it is the finest one-shot 2022 has to offer.

Leonide the Vampyr: Miracle at The Crow's Head is a disarming tale but make no mistake, it will surely sink its teeth into unsuspecting readers.

The Lonesome Hunters is an unmissable milestone in Tyler Crook's comics career.

Crook demonstrates his careful control of pacing to accentuate character, bringing Howard and Lupe to life vividly on the page.

"The Lonesome Hunters: The Wolf Child #1 definitely feels like more of an ongoing series than a miniseries, but unless you're a new reader picking this up because you saw a "#1 on the cover, this is to the story's advantage. Crook deftly juggles multiple plot threads while still carving out space for the kind of character moments that endeared readers to "The Lonesome Hunters in the first place.

In case I haven't impressed it upon you yet, I loved the hell out of this book. Under normal circumstances I'd probably be lamenting Tyler Crook being too busy to do further "Witchfinder" stories, but having him on "Harrow County" is even better. Together, Cullen Bunn and Tyler Crook are unmissable.

Right now, there is no comic I enjoy reading more than "Harrow County," and it's barely begun. I look forward to spending many more issues immersed in this world Bunn and Crook have created.

Harrow County continues to show the best horror comics has to offer. Cullen Bunn and Tyler Crook complement each other perfectly"they clearly love working on this series, and that passion for the work shows in every page.

After every issue of "Harrow County" I'm always eager for the next, but this one more than usual.

'Death's Choir' is nothing short of excellent. The wait for "Tales from Harrow County" #5 is going to be painful. God, it's great to have "Harrow County" back.

It is consistently surprising how an arc that on the surface almost seems like a detour from the usual ends up tapping into the core of feeling a "Harrow County story so perfectly. It strikes out into new territory while accentuating the aspects that make the world of "Harrow County feel unique.

Whenever Mike Mignola, Ben Stenbeck, and Dave Stewart collaborate, they end up creating some of the very best books in the Hellboy Universe, and "Koshchei in Hell looks like it may be their best yet.

I've been waiting for this story for years and it did not disappoint.

"Koshchei the Deathless" is more than just a "Hellboy" spinoff. It's a spiritual companion to "Hellboy in Hell," straying into stranger places than most Hellboy Universe stories dare. And like "Hellboy in Hell," it is a magnificent read.

Mignola and Stenbeck continue to outdo themselves with "Koshchei the Deathless." Buy this book.

"Koshchei the Deathless" has been consistently excellent right from the beginning. Together Mignola and Stenbeck can seemingly do no wrong.

"Koshchei the Deathless" stands among the very best the Hellboy Universe has to offer.

Not just an excellent comic, but one that deserves a reread.

Snyder and Rubn are well matched here. The story on the surface absolutely works and is satisfying on its own, but they both scattered details in their work that prompt questions, making for a reread that's richer than the first.

I can't recommend this one enough. "Four Gathered on Christmas Eve captures the true spirit of the seasona vicious competition for mince pies.

"Head Lopper" #6 has just about everything I want in a comic. It showcases the best of creator owned comics.

A visually stunning debut from Lorena Alvarez.

One last note, Christopher Mitten's covers on this issue were fantastic. I loved every one, but issue #3's was my favorite.

"Pumpkinheads" is an excellent read. . . and an even better reread.

"A grand stage has been set for future stories" Oh, this is going to be fun!

This pair of smaller stories probably aren't going to shake your world. They aren't going to keep you awake at night wondering what will happen next. But they're solid fun, and they shine some light on an extremely important relationship for this series, one that I'm excited to see grow throughout the '50s and on into the '60s and beyond. It makes me want to travel into the future so I can read a decade's worth of Hellboy and the B.P.R.D. omnibuses.

Plus Stenbeck and Mignola are a great team. I think I said that already. But it bears repeating. I hope to see another story with them working together very soon.

This issue is excellent. Chris Roberson and Paolo and Joe Rivera seem to have a natural affinity for this series and I can't wait for the next issue.

After those shorts stories from Mike Mignola and Ben Stenbeck and now this arc with Chris Roberson and Paolo and Joe Rivera, I think Hellboy and the B.P.R.D. has established itself firmly and it's definitely vying for the position of my favorite Mignola series. It's got such a range of tone, I can't help being wooed by it. Let's face it, I am smitten.

This was an excellent the Hellboy Universe debut from both Chris Roberson and Paolo Rivera.

"Witchfinder: In the Service of Angels""Hellboy: Darkness Calls" second epilogue"Hellboy: The Wild Hunt" #5"Hellboy in Hell" #1"4, #9"10"Koshchei the Deathless""B.P.R.D.: The Devil You Know" #12 and #15.

Stenbeck's work shines in "Mangeky."

This is an issue that celebrates the era it's set in, with genuine love for its influences woven into every page.

This issue hangs on to the Fleischer-inspired narrative we gushed about last week while firmly planting itself in the bedrock of the universe around it.

This story is one of the best "Lobster Johnson" stories yet. Arcudi, Zonjic, and Stewart shine in an issue that's a pure joy to read.

This is "Lobster Johnson" at its best.

Simply put, this issue was fun. I know that's not a very grandiose way to describe it, but it's a very accurate one. "The Pirate's Ghost" is an unabashedly fun issue told by a pair of creators whose craftsmanship shows in every page.

"The Pirate's Ghost" is "Lobster Johnson" at its very finest.

The two tales are lighter than the usual "Hellboy" story, embracing the more humorous aspects of the series, and the extra pages make for an especially satisfying read.

First 'The Beast of Vargu,' now 'Long Night at Goloski Station'"2019's been a great year for one-shots from Mike Mignola. Both stories set a very high bar for December's 'The Seven Wives Club' with Adam Hughes.

I hope when this story is collected, it comes with a hefty sketchbook section, just so I can spend a little more time in lith's world as drawn by Olivier Vatine.

Final Verdict: 9 "Hellboy and the B.P.R.D.: Old Man Whittier is a traditional Hellboy story paired with art that breaks out of the traditional Hellboy look, resulting in a comic that stands unique in the series.

'The Beast of Vargu' and 'The Secret God of the Roma' are instant classics, a sheer joy to read.

I finished this issue with one clear thought in my mind, "I need MORE," and in more ways than one. No "Hellboy" fan should miss this issue.

'The Secret of Chesbro House' is a classic haunted house story combined with a classic "Hellboy" story, told by a creative team that relishes everything that makes these two things great.

'The Secret of Chesbro House' is another solid entry for "Hellboy and the B.P.R.D." It delivers all the promised action and humor, tied together with dark secrets.

Final Verdict: 7.5 " While not as striking as "Hellboy: Krampusnacht," "Hellboy and the B.P.R.D.: The Seven Wives Club" feels like a story that's been bubbling and brewing in Mignola's mind for a while now, and Hughes's art seemingly relishes every macabre moment.

"Hellboy and the B.P.R.D.: Time Is a River takes the best of 'The Miser's Gift' and pushes it further.

I may be in love with "Hellboy in Love.

An elegant opening to the series. "Isola" looks gorgeous, but more importantly, those gorgeous visuals are dense with story and character.

The "Manor Black" miniseries leaves almost every single thread left dangling. This is not an ending; it's a "to be continued""

"Manor Black: Fire in the Blood is an enthralling vignette in a much more complex tapestry, yet its role as a piece in something larger never eclipses the story at hand. It is a powerful story even on its own.

"Our Encounters with Evil" is a worthy sequel to "Mr. Higgins Comes Home," never living in its predecessor's shadow.

In case you haven't figured it out yet, this comic is most definitely a buy. Longterm fans of Mignola's world will love it, and yet it's completely accessible to new readers. So much of this comic was pure wish fulfillment for me. Now if only I had the next issue"

"The Bone Orchard Mythos: The Passageway sees Jeff Lemire and Andrea Sorrentino building on the shared interests they discovered while working on "Gideon Falls, but on a canvas where they can explore and augment and reinvent however they see fit. There's a vitality here that comes through in every page.

"The Golem Walks Among Us!" #1 is a grim and relentless issue, the perfect match for its grim and relentless lead character.

"The Golem Walks Among Us!" is certainly a dark tale, but hope burns brightly at its core.

I am thoroughly intrigued "The One Hand #1. The nature of its concept demands a comic that the reader should want to read more than once, and the way the story is told, the way it challenges the reader to think about what they're seeing, the creative team have absolutely succeeded.

Frankenstein: New World #3 takes the image of Frankenstein with the Hyperborean Sword from Ben Stenbeck's Kickstarter pinup, and extrapolates that idea into a vast landscape. It suggests so much more beyond the scope of the character. There is a whole New World to explore now, after all...

This issue flew by. It's mostly action, so it seems a little short, but it's beautifully handled. Ben Stenbeck is doing his best work on this series. I can't wait to see where it goes"

Frankenstein Underground really is an odd book, and I mean that in a good way. At first it seems like it's at the periphery of the Hellboy Universe, but it's actually tangled up in the foundation of its mythology. With only one issue to go I'm very curious to see where it goes next. With all this set-up, it feels like it must be something quite grand in scope.

All in all, I'm geeking out about all the connections with this story. I want to see Frankenstein's Creature again and this reborn subterranean world. I want to explore all the mysteries this story hints at. I'm not ready to say goodbye to this corner of the Hellboy Universe yet, not by long shot. I have a feeling that years from now, when this story's place in the big picture becomes clearer, this will make one hell of a reread.

This was a great issue from the entire creative team"writing and art, this book is firing on all cylinders.

"Frankenstein Undone" sits between a classic piece of the literature canon and one of Mignola's best comics, and yet somehow it isn't dwarfed by either.

There is no other comic out there that makes me feel the way "Giant Days" does. It's quite simply the best long-form comedy comicbook I've ever read.

"Giant Days" bows out with a tribute to its beginning.

"Hellboy: The Silver Lantern Club" has so many Mignola projects in its DNA, yet it also has a spark all of its own.

"Hellboy: The Silver Lantern Club" #2 refines its premise. This isn't outright comedy, but it isn't a book to be taken too seriously either. Given that it is further exploring characters from "Witchfinder," it's gratifying to see how easily it shrugs off the more serious tone of that series and adopts more levity.

The characters shine in "Hellboy: The Silver Lantern Club" #3. Roberson expresses much of the nuanced character with minimal dialogue, relying on Mitten's art to communicate the unspoken details. It's an approach that forces the reader to look at body language to read the story properly, and in the process reveal more of who they are.

This truly is the Silver Lantern Club at its most chaotic.

Final Verdict: 8 Whatever else is planned for the Silver Lantern Club, I'm glad we got this story that feels utterly unique among literally hundreds of Hellboy Universe tales. That alone is something worth celebrating.

While I enjoyed the first half of the issue, the second left me cold.

A truly moving issue.

"The Visitor: How and Why He Stayed" #5 ends on a sad, but honest note, and even managed to heighten a classic moment "Hellboy: Conqueror Worm."

'1956' kicks off in style with an impressive first issue.

Despite being an information-dense issue, the focus on characters keeps '1956' #2 tense and engaging throughout.

A solid comic, if a little subdued.

"Hellboy and the B.P.R.D.: 1956" #4 doesn't just lay groundwork for exciting future issues, it's an excellent issue in its own right.

This arc, End of Days, is the first half of the final Hell on Earth story, which means don't expect anything to be to be tied up next month. Expect it to be ripped open. We're in for a cliffhanger folks, make no mistake. Honestly, this is agony. I want the next issue, but I don't. January is going to be brutal.

An excellent start to a new arc, and the welcome return of Ashley Strode.

Excellent art and a problematic script lead to a very uneven issue, especially in terms of characterization.

An excellent beginning to a game-changing arc.

A surprisingly quiet issue for one so close to the end.

A bleak, heart-breaking, and magnificent issue.

No, this is not the end of "B.P.R.D.," but it's still the end of an era. John Arcudi's run was incredible to behold, and you'd be crazy not to pick this issue up.

Castle Full of Blackbirds #1 has put its best foot forward.

Final Verdict: 8 " As you'd expect from a title that's the first 'Tales from the Outerverse'"branded story, "Cojacaru the Skinner" serves as a great way for new readers to sample what the Outerverse is like, while also focusing on building the universe.

"Cojacaru the Skinner" is one of those rare stories that manages to pull off a perfect balance between serving both new and long-term readers. In this first "Tales from the Outerverse" story, Mignola, Golden, and Bergting have certainly put their best foot forward, and I eagerly await more.

"Giant Robot Hellboy is a story full of questions with very few answers. That's not going to be for everyone, I know, but as someone that loves digging into the mysteries, this was so much fun. It's a lightweight story in terms of character, but heavy in terms of worldbuildingI expect we'll be feeling ripples from "Giant Robot Hellboy in the Hellboy Universe for years to come.

"Hellboy vs. Lobster Johnson" is utterly and gloriously ridiculous.

Final Verdict: 8 " "Imogen of the Wyrding Way" is a classic Outerverse story in so many ways, using storytelling devices that have been employed since its inception, but it never loses sight of the future either. As much as Imogen's story feels classical, Imogen herself is pushing the Outerverse into new frontiers, quickly becoming one the series' most compelling characters.

This was my favorite chapter so far. Edmondson and Zonjic raised the stakes further than they've ever been before in a series that's always been tense at the best of times. It's surprisingly easy to dive back into the world of "Jake Ellis" again. Bring on Chapter Ten.

After the fallout from "Hell on Earth" the Bureau's dynamic is pretty shaken up, but it's good to have "B.P.R.D." back.

A step in the right direction, even if the ground is still a little shaky beneath their feet.

"B.P.R.D. The Devil You Know" leans heavily on the past in this issue, which makes it a bit of an unwieldy read, but the reunion of Abe and Liz is very satisfying.

Despite being the penultimate issue for this arc, "B.P.R.D. The Devil You Know" hasn't quite found its footing yet.

I know we've already done our end-of-year wrap ups, but can I pick the last panel of this issue as my favorite moment of the comics year?

"B.P.R.D.: The Devil You Know" is quite simply unmissable.

"B.P.R.D.: The Devil You Know" gets better with each new issue.

This issue's a breath before diving into the finale. If you were hoping for some headway into the Abe"Fenix plotline, you'll have to wait a little longer yet.

We're seeing a bit of buckling under the strain from so many different characters and plotlines, but "The Devil You Know" #10 delivers on the essentials, especially where Campbell and Stewart's art is concerned.

"B.P.R.D.: The Devil You Know" #11 has a lot it wants to accomplish, and while some of it lands, for the most part this feels like one and a half issues of content crammed into one comic.

There's some great stuff here for long-term fans, and Laurence Campbell has a way of elevating even a simple expository conversation so that it feels grand and mythic.

"B.P.R.D.: The Devil You Know" #13 is an issue full of contrast and epic moments, yet it somehow manages to showcase the creators' necessary restraint in dealing with this material. Knowing when to make things small seems key to making the big stuff work.

Lee's atmospheric visuals lay a solid foundation for "Crimson Lotus."

"Crimson Lotus" #2 ups the action, but keeps the Crimson Lotus herself out of it, operating from the shadows for now.

="Crimson Lotus" is the supernatural adventure story we didn't know the Hellboy Universe needed. It's a welcome change of pace and tone.

I'm really hoping there's another series with Agent Shengli in the future.

Overall, this issue has certain limitations in that is adapting scenes that were originally written with a novel in mind, but it is still an excellent comic. And I can assure you, in the next issue big stuff happens.

This issue progresses from fiery oranges to cold blue-greys and rich reds, finally ending with the sequence downstairs in dingy greys and faded browns. Dave Stewart's colours felt like the mood of the book, which is no small piece of praise. He got me right back to the feelings I had when I first read the novel.

I am very impatient for more, and not just the next issue, but the next four issues.

This issue is a quiet character study. I could go on about what I see in each of the characters, but ultimately I think that defeats the purpose. This is really about what you, the reader, see in the characters, and how much you enjoy exploring them will ultimately determine how interesting you'll find this issue. If you're more action orientated, this one may leave you cold. For me, this is the sort of thing I enjoy.

The issue's reach exceeded its grasp, but it's nonetheless an enjoyable read.

This is a good issue that appears to be setting up some very interesting things for the future.

A transformative issue that rips at the threads of the "Baltimore" world and rewrites the established structure.

"The Cult of the Red King" is off to a great start for readers both new and old. There's confidence in Bergting's art now. He seems much more comfortable wearing the mantle of the "Baltimore" artist. The expanded cast has opened up the series. Now heading into its sixth volume, the book feels bigger than ever. Whatever comes next, count me along for the ride.

Another solid entry in what could be the best "Baltimore" miniseries yet.

The only character that seems a bit left out at the moment is Dr. Rose, but with a cast this big, there's no harm in that. By necessity some characters have to take a step back. If he doesn't get his moment in this story, I'm sure he'll get one in a future tale. Mignola and company are juggling nine characters, and they're doing so in a way that makes it seem effortless (which is usually a sign that a lot of hard work went into it).

The way Golden and Bergting are working together on this arc, I swear they seem like they've been working together much longer than they have. This is only their second story, and yet the tone of the writing and art are in such perfect synchronisation. These guys make it look effortless. This is, without doubt, the best Baltimore story arc to date.

Much of this issue is spent establishing time and place, and putting all the pieces on the board for what's to follow. The focus is clearly on building tension. Sure there's some vampire fights in there, but they play out differently from usual. What Baltimore discovers about the Infernal Train in the final pages should make for an exciting second issue. I can't wait to see where Mignola and company are going with this.

It is a minor criticism, and very far from a damning one. Honestly, I feel like a bit of a jerk for mentioning it, because this is an issue that delivered in a big way and I really enjoyed it. Everyone involved, from writing to illustrating to colouring, lettering, and editing, has given it their all. It's a big moment for the series, and I'm happy to report it lives up to expectations. You'll have fun with this one for sure.

Ultimately this story is bigger than its three issues, and I suspect that later stories will make rereading this one a richer experience than it already is.

I find myself wanting to reread Baltimore from the beginning again. This story is the breath before the plunge, touching on elements from previous stories while setting pieces in place for something big. If you are a Baltimore fan, this is a story you can't afford to miss. Even if you're new to the series, The Inquisitor is easily accessible and well worth getting a hold of.

"The Red Kingdom" is a compelling opening to the final chapter of "Baltimore." There's a lot squeezed into a mere twenty-four pages.

An issue covering this much backstory and set-up could've easily fallen short, but Golden and Bergting always find the necessary drama and the right mysteries to tease to keep the energy up. Plus it was the sort of issue that was fun to think about afterward.

A much more mood-focused issue, a necessary pause before the end is unleashed.

I would have given this issue a higher grade, but the colors held it back.

Lord Baltimore gets the ending we all saw coming, but the series leaves its supporting cast adrift.

All in all, these aren't stories that advance the plot, but they're good little vignettes. I feel like they'll read better in the eventual hardcover collection alongside A Passing Stranger and The Play.

If you're new to the series, check this out. In many ways this seems like a re-introduction to the Baltimore's universe.

Still, if this weren't following Chapel of Bones, I would have assumed this was a side story in the vein of Dr. Leskovar's Remedy, which was a fun story, but it had no real impact on the ongoing plot. With the expanded cast, I was hoping for some character development, something to sink my teeth into, but that hasn't happened yet. So far it's been quite light. Honestly, this one's hard to judge without having read the final part. It's a solid issue, though it seems a little inconsequential considering what has preceded it.

I'm sold on Peter Bergting. Sure he's new to the series, but this issue makes it absolutely clear he's got a real feel for this world. This wasn't just a good issue, it was the right ending, strengthening the previous issues, and I finished it wanting to read more. Next month is "The Wolf and the Apostle," Ben Stenbeck's last Baltimore miniseries. I'll be sorry to see him go, but I know Baltimore is in good hands now, and I can't help being eager to see what Christopher Golden and Peter Bergting cook up for us next.

There's more I want to say about this issue, but I told myself I'd keep the review for the first issue spoiler free. So, my final verdict? Pick it up, even if you're new to the series. It's only two issues long, but it makes the most of it. The story stands alone extremely well, even though it's picking up on story elements that were already in motion. If you're already a Baltimore reader, this story is simply unmissable. Judge Duvic as a werewolf. You can't say no to that. Like I said at the beginning, this is my favorite Baltimore story yet.

Right now the Baltimore series is in a state of transition from a solo book to a team book. Usually transitions are rocky, but not so here. It's on sure footing, perhaps on surer footing than it's ever been. I'm going to miss Ben on this title, but I can't feel too bad about it when I know he's going on to Frankenstein Underground and Peter Bergting is showing so much promise. This story simultaneously makes me lament the end of an era, while eagerly anticipating the next.

Final Verdict: 8 " This is a really strong debut for "Lady Baltimore," but with so much to deal with in the wake of the "Baltimore" finale, there's a definite sense that this issue is just a warm up. There are some teases for what's ahead from Golden and Connell, and I for one am there for it.

There's a lot packed into this issue. It makes for a slightly overwhelming first read through, but a very rewarding second read. Sofia's bravado is almost always masking something deeper, and once the truth is uncovered, there's an extra spark in the story that's an immense pleasure. This was true of the first issue and it's true here in the second.

It's absurd how much more of this issue there is to talk about. Like I said, "Lady Baltimore: The Witch Queens" #4 is packed. There's a lot to digest, to the point that I recommend not just reading it, but rereading it too.

It's good to have Sir Edward back again.

A solid issue for sure, but I can't help but also wonder if things are starting to become, to use your word, overstuffed. This is a dense story so far, and my hope is that we can have just a little breathing room in the future.

A little relaxing of the pace gives this issue room to breathe and grow its characters, though we couldn't help but miss Dave Stewart on this issue.

Roberson and Stenbeck have crafted another excellent issue.

A solid ending to this miniseries with great promise for future stories.

A strong opening to a new "Witchfinder" tale. D'Israeli, Madsen, and Robins steal the show with their striking new approach to the art.

"Witchfinder: The Gates of Heaven" #2 taps into the elements that Sir Edward Grey works best with. There's quite a bit in there that should please long-term fans too.

Another solid issue. This certainly draws heavily from "Abe Sapien: The Drowning," but it kind of has to. "Witchfinder: The Gates of Heaven" #3 packs a lot into its twenty-two pages.

D'Israeli and Madsen craft yet another visually striking issue of "Witchfinder: The Gates of Heaven."

A visually impressive issue that sets up a lot to play with for future "Witchfinder" stories.

Definitely pick this book up. It's pushing Witchfinder's boundaries in story and art and it's better for it. The creative team on this one works fantastically well together. I hope this is the first of many Witchfinder books from them.

This was a quieter issue mainly concerned with set-up. The British-ness of Sir Edward's wit is particularly enjoyable, and Tyler Crook's work is excellent. For the most part though, the mysteries of Unland are still unfolding. We've been shown but a glimpse of what's really going on, and now that the ground work has been laid, I'm eager to discover more it the next part.

And as I've said before in my reviews for the first two issues, Tyler Crook is excellent on Witchfinder. It fits him like a glove, and I'm really enjoying his work. Just like I think of Tonci Zonjic as THE Lobster Johnson artist, I'm beginning to think of Tyler Crook as THE Witchfinder artist. This series isn't over yet and I'm already hoping another Crook-drawn Witchfinder will be announced, even if it's an eight-page short story in Dark Horse Presents.

Overall, it was the atmosphere of this one that I enjoyed the most. I know that's a vague sort of compliment, but the general mood of this issue clicked. This is what I think Witchfinder should feel like.

I'm very sorry to see this minseries end. Witchfinder stories come along so rarely, and this one has been my favourite so far. This book is unique in the Mignolaverse. There really is nothing else like it. Kim Newman and Maura McHugh gave this series a very distinctive voice that felt both authentic and also very playful. They clearly had fun with the dialogue and I in turn had fun reading it. Sir Edward's world felt more British than it ever has before. I can't stop praising Tyler Crook. He made this book his own right from page one, and continued to impress and surprise all the way through. The flashbacks in the fog in issue 4 are still my favourite bits though. Just imagine what he and Dave Stewart could do with the foggy streets of London… Yes, I am very sorry this miniseries has ended indeed. I hope this team will return for more Witchfinder… and soon.

Everything appears to be in place for what could be Sir Edward Grey's most defining story to date.

Roberson and Mitten impress with their character work in this issue.

Another solid issue of "Witchfinder: The Reign of Darkness." With this set-up, it looks like #4 is going to be a big one. . .

Needless to say, I got pretty drawn into this one.

A solid ending, though there are more than a few loose ends to explore in future stories.

Overall, Joe Golem is good. I certainly can't fault it, but it hasn't really grabbed me yet either. The character types are familiar and they act exactly the way I expect them to act. I feel like there needs to be some unpredictability in the mix. At the moment, the Rat Catcher itself is where I'm engaging the most. After all, who'd have expected Joe would find the kids alive? I was expecting him to find gnawed and rotting corpses.

This issue gave me a strong sense of what this series can be and the sort of stories it can tell. Obviously that's very important in a debut arc. I hope the next arc puts more emphasis on the present. The flashbacks, while visually interesting, have limited pay-off and tend to be a bit one note. When Joe Golem is at its best is when the story dives into tragic, haunted stuff. That's where it really shines. The imagery used to to explore a certain character's interior life was perfect and I have to praise all involved for pulling it off so well. That sequence was masterful.

The first half of this issue is pulling in too many directions. The disconnected flashback followed by the weak Lori and Joe scene hurt the pacing rather badly, and the story seems to struggle to get started. However, the second half is firing on all cylinders. If it can maintain the energy set-up here, the next issue should be fantastic.

This issue was a great way to close out the first batch of Joe Golem stories. It struck a nice balance of catering to both readers that have only read the comic and those familiar with the prose novel. Patric Reynolds and Christopher Golden seem to do their best work with sad, haunted characters, and this issue has a great moment for that. I don't know when the next round of Joe Golem stories will come along, but hopefully it'll be before the year is done.

I enjoyed this one, especially the way it captured the spark of Joe Golem I remember from the prose works. However, I think the real impact of this issue will be felt in the stories that follow it, not so much here. This is laying a foundation for moments to come.

"Flesh and Stone" is truly a high point for "Joe Golem, Occult Detective."

The Conjurors' changes the "Joe Golem" series in a big way.

A strong opening which should satisfy fans of the original novel and fans of the comic series.

This issue spends a great deal of its time digging around in Church's, Orlov's, and Joe's pasts, but it's all compelling stuff, and the character work - especially between Church and Molly - is excellent.

"Joe Golem: Occult Detective"The Drowning City" #3 strikes an excellent balance between dialogue and art telling the story. Christopher Golden has a history with this art team and it shows.

"Joe Golem: Occult Detective"The Drowning City" #4 shows how an adaptation can step out of the shadow of its source material, being both faithful and inventive at the same time.

"Joe Golem: Occult Detective"The Drowning City" ends on a high note, leaving us wanting more" which is good because 'The Conjurors' is due later this year.

A promising start to "The Outer Dark."

"The Outer Dark" #2 covertly opens up the world of "Joe Golem, Occult Detective" and "Baltimore." Where we go from here is a very exciting prospect indeed.

"The Outer Dark" does some great things with the ongoing "Joe Golem" story, and opens up some very interesting avenues to explore in future arcs.

Unfortunately, 'Falling Sky' feels underdeveloped.

'Family Ties' sets a very high bar for "Hellboy and the B.P.R.D.: 1957," delivering one of the best 1950s stories to date.

'Fearful Symmetry' is very different in terms of the art, but familiar in terms of the writing, and together this creates an atmosphere that's very appropriate for the tale. It excels in its character work and in the unsettling. Sampson's approach to the tigers, where they are just the right amount of wrong, was particularly effective, and continued to live in my head for a few days after I read the issue.

"Hellboy and the B.P.R.D.: 1957"Forgotten Lives" is a quiet character study, as Hellboy and Professor Bruttenholm process their recent losses. And yet, despite the overall melancholy mood, there are sparks of joy in there too.

Final Verdict: 7 All things considered, this is a quieter way to wrap up "Hellboy and the B.P.R.D.: 1957 than readers were probably expecting, but I think the purpose will read clearer as part of a collection.

It's easy to love "Young Hellboy: Assault on Castle Death #1. from the title alone, it's clear the book knows exactly what it is and revels in it.

The core of the book is the Hellboy and the Lobster team up. If you enjoy "Lobster Johnson" comics where the Lobster cries out "Beware the Claw of Justice!" then you're going to love this.

'Assault on Castle Death' #3 raises many questions. Hopefully issue #4 can answer a few.

So I'm going to finish all the series we're in the middle of, like "Hellboy in Love and "Koshchei in Hell. By April, everything should be wrapped up, and going forward I plan to write reviews for each story arc as the last issue comes out. My hope is that this new approach will let me write more thoughtful, less reactionary reviews. Of course, there are other reviewers on Multiversity Comics that would like to review Mignola's books, so I don't think reviews of single issues will entirely vanish either. At the very least there will always be one review for every story arc.

"Young Hellboy: The Hidden Land" #2 swings through the golden age of monster movies, pulp heroism, and coming of age adventures, albeit while losing some of its own structure and identity in the homage. Scarlett Santiago, the Sky Devil, definitely steals the show"it's clear the creative team was having fun introducing her and teasing out her story.

The biggest downside of the issue is that wait for the next.

"Young Hellboy: The Hidden Land" is an exciting, pulpy adventure story, but ultimately a lightweight affair. If this was a regular "Hellboy" title, this might be a strike against it, but as a "Young Hellboy" title, it gets to indulge in a time when Hellboy could experience real joy from his victories without having to wrestle with some tragedy or darkness.

An excellent start to an intriguing new series.

This is a packed read, and yet also a slow burn. The art is fantastic from cover to cover.

A highly enjoyable issue, despite a rough patch.

I'm totally entranced by Christopher Mitten's artwork, and Chris Roberson has invested in this band of characters so much that I'm genuinely worried about them.

The ending was a little rough, but this was a minor drawback to an otherwise fantastic series.

Obviously, this was great. Can we please make this an annual tradition? That'd be awesome.

All three stories in 2018's Winter Special felt complete. 2019's Special gave us two stories that mainly existed as teasers, and while they certainly worked as teasers, it does put a cap on how much satisfaction a reader can get from them. That said, seeing Lszl, del Duca, and Mutti doing such fantastic work makes the "Hellboy Winter Special 2019" absolutely worth it.

I hope this is something that can be reined in in future, because the wall it's putting between the characters and readers is troubling, and used sparsely it is far more powerful.

I liked this more than the last one, but the story still needs a tighter focus on the emotional components.

This was a good issue. With a stronger ending, I would have given it an 8, but the abruptness of the it grabbed me by the scruff of the neck and and pulled me out of the story.

Pick up this issue. If you're new to the series, pick up 12 and 13 while you're at it, otherwise this could be tricky to understand. For long term readers, this issue is going to blow you away. This issue does what comics do best. It tells the story in the most visually engaging way possible.

I liked this issue. It stands alone well enough for new readers, but it also explores Abe in a way that's relevant to the ongoing story. I enjoyed seeing familiar faces again, and seeing new sides to them. Plus there was also a healthy dose of action and nightmare-inducing horror. All this from an issue that takes place almost completely in a single room.

So, this one was a bit off for me. Plot wise, it's moving forward and working, but I felt let down in the character department, and the exposition could have used a lighter touch. There's some intriguing mysteries here though, and the atmosphere is very well handled. What's there is good, but it's a bit cluttered.

So, this was not the kind of issue I was expecting, but it was a good issue nonetheless. Gene's addition to the cast was totally unexpected, and yet it totally made sense. I find there are times the series tends to talk about choices and actions rather than showing them, which is why I enjoyed Gene's change so much. His change manifested itself as a choice that became very real action, giving Sebastian the chance to draw an action sequence that was as much about being overwhelmed by mutants as it was about being overwhelmed by anger. When the series finds visual ways to explore its characters like this, it's really at its best.

But, it's only three and a bit pages in a larger story, and I have to be objective about the rest of the issue. The story surged near the end though, so I've a strong feeling the next one is going to be better.

Near the end there's an action sequence that ended with a moment that would have made for an excellent cliffhanger, but the next scene took it further and added another quieter moment that works even better. Things had gotten so interesting by the end" And now I have to impatiently await the next issue.

So this is where I find myself. I liked the issue. I really liked Megan. I wish we'd seen more of her sooner. But the pacing threw me a bit, and there are some things that could have been played tighter and punchier.

Overall, this is a slight issue in terms of story and character, but in terms of zombie action, it delivers in spades.

Overall, this last issue didn't quite pull all its elements together. The demon sequence was especially talky and anti-climactic. However, there were some great moments, really shocking stuff with Arbogast, Dayana, and Abe's act of murder. It ended in the right place too. Give me more stuff like that and I'd be very happy indeed.

Overall, this issue is set-up. It's a quieter issue, and the strength of this arc hinges on the next part. However, everything is working smoothly, and I liked experiencing the more contemplative side of Abe. This arc and The Shadow Over Suwanee both handled this aspect of the series well.

Abe is back in New York, in the building where Bruttenholm died, and is set to make further discoveries about himself. On top of that, his former teammates were/are/will be in the same city. This comic is starting to feel big. Not just in terms of current events, but in relation to its place in the larger world.

Mark: It's a 9 from me. What can I say? I'm a sucker for seeing old Bruttenholm again. The whole homecoming story really worked for me. I've wanted to see Abe feel sadness for a while. Letting him have that emotion brought so much more weight to what he was learning.

This series keeps cramming in more and more with each issue, yet somehow it hasn't become overwhelming. This series is sprinting to the finish line.

Huge revelations abound in an issue that will stay with you long after you finish reading.

A stunningly beautiful issue that teases big things for the "Abe Sapien" finale.

Unfortunately, the series came undone at the end.

The team behind "The Rise of the Black Flame" dive into an era of the Hellboy Universe seldom explored, but rich with possibility. "Rasputin: The Voice of the Dragon" will please both long-term and new readers alike.

"Rasputin: The Voice of the Dragon" draws on a wealth of history. There's a lot of set-up in this issue, but it's handled deftly and illustrated beautifully. I could read a lot more of Trevor exploring an old manor if Christopher Mitten was drawing it.

A thoroughly enjoyable issue. It's great to see Sandhu again.

A truly enjoyable adventure story. Bring on the final issue!

Mitten's art is the major draw here. The ending's reach exceeds its grasp, but "Rasputin: The Voice of the Dragon" is still an exciting read and left us wanting more.

There are so many challenges ahead for the creative team on "The House of Lost Horizons: A Sarah Jewell Mystery," but happily they've laid a strong foundation in the first issue.

For the work they're doing, the creators deserve a better score than this. "The House of Lost Horizons" is at odds with its format. It would have been significantly stronger as an original graphic novel.

There's a definite shift in this issue. Things are getting darker and the characters more unsettled.

This issue is a mixed bag. It has scenes that are dragged down by the biggest problems of the series, but it also has the fun stuff a mystery story of this kind should. Overall, I enjoyed it, but it could've soared higher.

I was satisfied with the way the mysteries of "The House of Lost Horizons" played out, but once the explanations were done, it all ended too fast.

A satisfying one-shot to wrap up "1955."

A promising start to a new arc, but with some problematic character continuity issues. Hopefully "Hellboy and the B.P.R.D." can tighten things up going forward.

An improvement from the first issue that continues grow the larger narrative of the B.P.R.D.'s early years. Churilla's art is the highlight.

A disappointing end to "Occult Intelligence." The art is its saving grace.

"Secret Nature" is a great start to "1955" while working perfectly as a stand alone story. It serves as a significantly stronger introduction to Woodrow than his first appearance in "Black Sun."

This is a strong foundation for the next part, but overall it's a quiet issue focused on building characters.

Overall this was an enjoyable issue, with a strong start and finish, even if it sags a bit in the middle.

While I'm waiting impatiently waiting for the next arc of "Joe Golem," I'm very glad Reynolds was able to take the time to do this. His work truly elevated the issue for me. Hopefully we'll see Reynolds and Roberson work together again before too long.

The script is overwrought, but this is a strong Hellboy Universe debut from Brian Churilla.

This was a terrible disappointment. Aside from a few nice character beats, the only good thing about this issue is the art.

A fun read, definitely worth checking out (or revisiting if you caught it the first time around).

Some very disturbing tone problems emerged that pretty much killed my enjoyment of this one.

There's a definite lull in the middle, but "Jenny Finn" #3 starts and finishes strong.

An excellent book from a trio of creators that work in seamless unison. They've laid the groundwork for an engrossing series, and I'm already excited to see what the next volume will bring in May 2018.

Final verdict: 7.5 " "Spill Zone: The Broken Vow" never reaches the same heights as its predecessor, but still stands as a strong conclusion to "Spill Zone."

I couldn't help but have fun with "Barbarian Lord." It's the perfect length, big enough to feel like an epic adventure worthy of song, but never outstaying its welcome. Smith teases more in the book's final pages. Hopefully that tease comes to fruition.

Final verdict: 9. A worthy sequel to the magnificent "Nightlights."

This article was updated from its original version with art from the published book of "Lucky Penny" and not the serialized online version. Thank you, Oni Press, for supplying these.