Mike Eakins Comic Reviews

Sean Lewis and Hayden Sherman and Hassan Otsmane-Elhaou, oh my! This book feels good. I cant stop reading it. I love the darkness of it, the emotion of the characters, and the passion of the creative team. I cant recommend this book enough.

All the great western tropes continue to be properly accounted for and detailed in Above Snakes. However, theres a healthy dose of layered story-telling thrown in for good measure, and that makes for a fun read. If creative teams are storytelling puppeteers then this group is a master of puppets. Read Above Snakes!

A STRONG book in the series and my favorite so far. We have enough adjectives in the review on how strong this creative team is. Plain and simple, Above Snakes is a series you should be reading.

ABOVE SNAKES is an unorthodox tale of being on a vision quest thats fueled by love and revenge. At times, they wrestle back and forth between what is more important. Dirt has the unwanted job of trying to figure out when its enough and being satisfied with the decision. Lewis, Sherman, and Otsmane-Elhaou operate as a three-headed creative juggernaut on ABOVE SNAKES.

Westerns, much like horror are a great blank canvas to paint a broad of picture as you see fit. Aint No Grave paints a unique story in a familiar setting.

Regardless of your take on Spider-Man, this issue a key issue for more than the first appearance of Kingpin or that there is a Spider-Man no more. This issue is key to how we should not take ourselves for granted. Self-worth can only truly be judged by ourselves.

I love everything about this book. I love how it makes me think about missing home. I love how it reminds me that the strongest force in the world is love. I love how it makes me think of how lucky I am that my daughter was born a month before I retired from the military. I hate how my friends had to hide who they were while fighting for a country that enabled hatred for being who they were. I hate the fact that some didn't come home. Slipknot said "People = Shit." And in today's world, there may be some truth to that; but with stories like And We Love You, there's hope. With writers like Fell Hound, who put their passion to paper and tell great stories, there's hope. Hug the ones you love.

This book is AWESOME. This has all the elements of what makes a comic great. Phenomenal storytelling, good pace, character depth, and gorgeous art to wrap it all up and put a bow on it. This is just another great example of why you should read digital comics.

Atomic Victory Squad is absolutely a treasure trove of brash comedy that weaves in a really fun story, I havent laughed this hard at a comic in a very long time. I cant scream loud enough that you should read this book.

The recipe that makes Atomic Victory Squad is that of a fine dining experience and should be appreciated as such. Everything is top-notch. The writing, art, lettering, and coloring all come together to make one hell of a dish that should be served all over the world for everyone to enjoy. This book in one for ages and you should be reading it!

If you have been reading along with these reviews you know I sound like a broken record by this point and thats good because hopefully I have convinced you to read Atomic Victory Squad and become just possessed with it as I have become. I hope this series keeps going for a very long time.

To everyone involved with this series, we say thank you. Take a bow, take a break (youve earned it), and let's do it again. I cant wait for the next adventure.

Barstow #1 takes its time getting off the ground but in doing so, it does a great job in grabbing the reader and smacking them with freshly ripped entrails. Bottom line, read Barstow #1; I cant wait to see where this story goes.

Batman #497 will always be one of those issues that will have me think about what I was feeling after I read this book. It's timeless, even if you don't like Knightfall, or perhaps this is the only book in the series you read, it still stands as a modern classic.

Im sure there are plenty of folks that will roll their eyes at this book and thats fine; to each their own. But as Ive said before in my reviews, comics are supposed to be fun; and thats what Batman/Spawn is. Its nostalgia, its filled with familiar faces and tropes, and its exactly what it needed to befun.

Be Not Afraid is a beautiful revelation in terror and perception. Every panel leaves you feeling creepy and scared of dark corners. A MUST READ FOR THE SUMMER!

Bear Pirate Viking Queen is a haunting tale that deserves every bit of attention and recognition. You feel every inch of Sean Lewis and Jonathan Marks Barravecchias soul in this book.

Here we are with issue two and as expected Im completely blown away by this outstanding mythological retooling. Its books like these that make it unfair for the rest of the titles on the shelf. Sean Lewis and Jonathan Marks Barravecchia have possibly created the mini-series of the year.

Wrestling references aside, this book is super fun. The action never stops, and if you dont fall in love with Beef Bros., then you need to check your pulse.

Beneath The Trees Where Nobody Sees takes everything you know about cute animals and suburbia and twists them into a bloody mess, and its awesome.

Phase III of the Black Hammer Universe is in full swing, and Im here for every glorious panel. Jeff Lemire and Teddy Kristiansen were made to make a Black Hamme book, I cant wait to see whats in store. There has never been a better time to jump in; the water feels great.

Bliss #1 is such an emotional trip through your feelings and takes you to the deepest and darkest parts of your mind. At times I found myself getting emotional and putting myself in Benton's position. Sean Lewis and Caitlin Yarsky have created something very special with Bliss.

I teared up at the beginning of this book and my heart felt heavier with reading every word that Sean wrote and every picture that Caitlin drew on the pages. Seeing the homeless vet, the lonely lady on the subway, and the family at Thanksgiving all struck chords that sit close to home. The ending of this book is such a huge switch in a direction that if this is any clue of how the rest of the series is going to go, Im not sure if my emotions can take the ride!

Bliss continues to be one of the best series of the year, in my opinion. It succeeds on all fronts that I expect a story to have. Emotional characters that immediately grab hold of you for the duration of the adventure, exciting plot, and most importantly its re-readability. Sean Lewiss stellar storytelling combined with Caitlin Yarskys uncanny artistic ability continues to astonish and amaze with every issue of Bliss. This book is beautifully crafted, and a must-read.

Final thoughtsAnother incredibly well-built issue for one of the best stories you will read.

I hate the fact Im in the final thoughts portion of the review because I have so much to talk about when it comes to Bliss. I want to talk about Sean Lewis writing, I want to talk about Caitlin Yarskys art and how she brings pain and love to the panels in a way that you ultimately know her work. I cant forget about Ari Pluchinksy coming on later in the series, however, her dynamic talent added another level to the pain and love that is Bliss, a quick example would be the cover for #8 which is beautifully haunting. Ive said it before that this creative team is one of the best in comics and we can only hope their paths cross again. From issue 1 this has been a personal journey for me. The metaphors, the characters, the pain, and the love at times I saw me and I saw him. He passed years ago and in some small way, I hope hes found closure.

Blue Book #1 is a fun ride into historical nonfiction with a comic book twist. The books deceptively simplistic style adds a nice layer to the tone of the story in keeping with the era, even the title borrows from the Air Forces project that was responsible for investigating sightings and abductions. Even if aliens and UFOs arent your thing, Blue Book is an engaging and really fun read.

Bog Bodies is raw, spooky, and damn good. Declan Shalvey is one hell of a talent on both sides of the comic book, and Bog Bodies is absolute proof. Reading Bog Bodies has also introduced me to a couple of great talents in Gavin Fullerton and Rebecca Nalty. This book and its creative team are an absolute treasure!

When I was given the opportunity to review Brokenland #4, I was taken back because I wasnt expecting a silent book. Then as I read it and read it repeatedly, I found myself marveling at the talent of everyone involved in bringing this book to life.

I loved the feeling the book carried of wanting to find your special place where you can belong. I think at some point in our lives we all look for that, some find it, others never do. I fell in love with the panel where Aelara tells Willow she is safe, and she belongs here and then a few panels later go into such a great look on Willows face with one word on the panelsafe. Obviously this is only the 2nd issue there are ways to go but if only for a minute if a comic can help us dream of a place where each of us is safe, then this issue was worth it regardless of what happens in the series because this issue gave us what we so desperately cravehope.

As a first issue, Carnage #1 hits on all cylinders and will drive Carnage fans to the shops in droves, and they should. The art, lettering, and layouts are so well done that this book has the chops to make the most discerning reader take notice. This is not your fathers Carnage.

What Campaigns are you watching or think we should check out? Let us know in the comments.

Big action! The fighting spirit of Captain America. The hopeful and just soul of Superman. The love and understanding of Wonder Woman. Commander Rao may not be a straight-up superhero, but shes definitely a character that folks can buy into and stand by. I hope we see more of her.

I had a lot of fun with the Concrete World and writing this review. My only hang-up is this needed to be spoiler-free because theres so much to talk about in this book; the review could go on and on. The book hits like a ten-ton emotional hammer to the soul. Highly recommended.

Count Crowley: Reluctant Midnight Monster Hunter #1 does a brilliant job of telling a great story that embraces its time period and leaves the reader wanting more of this Dark Horse gem.

The bottom line is David Dastmalchian continues to drive this book like a long-haul trucker on a rabid mission to deliver its goods and he does. This whole team does. I cannot stress enough that this book is one that you should be reading! I understand the Big 2 have big events going on, and they are awesome in their own right, however, what I am about to say next will most likely get some colorful comments from comic fans and Im ok with that. When these four issues are all said and done, Count Crowley: Reluctant Midnight Monster Hunter should be considered for an Eisner for Best Limited Series and Best Writer/Artist. This book is that good, and stands on its own with any horror story of any timeframe.

Count Crowley continues to be a worthwhile read, with a breath of fresh air from the people who put on tights, save the day, and make you feel great. It makes you feel great in a way that we can all speak to. Weve never known someone who can leap buildings in a single bound, but we do know someone who is trying to turn their life around at the same time investigating things that go bump in the night. READ COUNT CROWLEY!

The creative team of David Dastmalchian, Lukas Ketner, and Lauren Affe gave us one hell of a story that was rich in plot and characters. Once in a while, you discover a story that not only grabs you and takes you in but sends you on an adventure. Thats what Count Crowley: Reluctant Midnight Monster Hunter is an adventure that is fun, exhilarating, and scary all at the same time. We can only hope this is not the last time that Dastmalchian, Ketner, and Affe will work together.

This was a fun read. At times it brought back memories of when I first started watching scary movies, and I would get that tense feeling of being scared about seeing the antagonist. I love when comics can do that. Cover of Darkness has the makings of an outstanding horror series. Make sure you place your orders soon, as you dont want to miss out; its currently in Previews (NOV211702) and will be in shops on January 19, 2022.

This was so much fun to read. Such a great retooling and one that I would have never thought about someone doing. Sometimes directions like these dont pan out too well, but this book changes that in a big way.

Creepshow and the Cryptkeeper are icons of the genre, and this first installment is absolutely enjoyable and so much fun. It pays great service to fans old and new and is a great stepping stone to those that may have never heard the Cryptkeepers tales before.

The comic world needs more quality horror stories like this one. The genre is crowded and at times can produce eye rolls, however, its the passion, grit, and delivery that make this book stand out as not just another horror comic. Damned, Cursed Children #1 should be in your hands!

Daphne Byrne #4 is one hell of a spooky book! The layers that Laura Marks has put into this story are amazing and issue 4 is no different. I cannot wait for issue 5!

Justin Jordan and Benjamin Tiesmas Dead Body Road: Bad Blood #1 is a brilliant small-town tale of crime, punishment, and homemade justice that is easily going to burn up the shelves as the next big series of the year.

This book is fun and is the kind of book that is the perfect form of escapism from the current state of the world. Justin Jordan creates a cool world with awesome characters. If you like your comics with fire, bullets, and awesome characters than Dead Body Road: Bad Blood is just the book you should be reading.

I cant stop reading this book! The complexity of this story is absolutely beautiful, and at times I found myself holding back emotions. That to me is a true test of a story. Do you feel for the characters, can you connect to the characters, does the story move you? When you are talking about Dead End Kids: The Suburban Job, the answer is a resounding yes. I cant stop talking about this book and I dont want to stop talking about this book.

Deadpool comics are fun, and Bad Blood is no exception. If you are new to Deadpool, I hope you enjoy it. The creative team is solid all around, the jokes are always a good time, and anytime Rob can sneak a foot quip into the panel, that makes it that much more light-hearted and funny.

Death Dealer #1 is a delightful high fantasy tale from cover to cover, and there is zero doubt in my mind Frank Frazetta would think the same thing. This is a great stepping stone into the Frazetta Universe.

Deep Beyond #1at timeshas a Ridley Scott meets David Lynch vibe. The superb storytelling of Scott and the unknown surrealism of Lynch (I feel) is present on every page of this book. Even if youre not a fan of science fiction, there is still one hell of a thriller-mystery story to be told and not tobe missed. This book was super fun and I cant wait to see what is in store for these characters. Especially Eve!

I didnt know what was in store for me when I agreed to review DinoDogz, but Im glad I did. As I said previously, my daughter and I have read this a few times, and Ive found myself flipping through the pages at some of my favorite and goofy parts. This was a fun read!

If you lived through the Satanic Panic era, then hopefully, you got my Geraldo joke, if not, you missed a great time. One of the things that I loved about this book is the mash-up of two of the most targeted subjects of feigned outrage. Music and horror. Dirt Witch takes those subjects and plays on them beautifully while delivering a fun monster story.

Overall, Doomed 2099 #1 is a fun space romp with a fun and familiar cast. Sharp writing, stunning art; whether youre a longtime fan of the good doctor or looking for a quick introduction, this is your book!

What goes better with weed than comics? Ok, aside from when the munchies hit, comics and weed are first cousins who get along fantastically. Over the last couple of years, Image and Scotch McTiernan have come out and celebrated 420 with us so I was excited to see what they had in the bowl for us this year and there were ZERO DISAPPOINTMENTS!

This book is why horror is exciting and intriguing. Its nothing short of what a horror story should be regardless of medium.

When I read this book, I felt unwanted memories come racing back and I could do nothing else but share in Mindys tears. Sweeney Boo has an extraordinary knack for storytelling that is comforting. While there is a sadness and vulnerability that is felt throughout the book, it also gave me hope.

A healthy dose of symbiote gore awaits the horde of fans that will undoubtedly consume this series. The bar has been set high for the rest of the books in the series as well as any tie-ins we may get. Do not miss out on Extreme Carnage.

When a creative team puts their soul into the panels it creates more than a comic book, it creates an adventure the makes a connection with its readers. Extreme Carnage: Scream #1 has a great feel to it and delivers what the fans want. A great story with great art and just enough speculation that will keep folks coming back for more.

Fantasy Quest #1 is a fabulous book that takes the reader on a journey of a thousand laughs. From the first to the last panel, Fantasy Quest reminds us why we love comics.

I was never a huge Superman fan. Ive always felt that he was someone better suited for the villain's life and seemed to be underwhelming at times. Over that past year or so, Ive been diving into more Superman books and having more conversations on Superman and I can feel my opinion of Kryptons favorite son changing a bit. Sean Lewis does a great job in aiding that opinion change. His take on Superman was superb and we can only hope he has more Kryptonian tales to tell.

Final thoughtsyou hate to see the show end. I have zero issues with being selfish and wanting these creative teams to stick around and continue their work. The formula for these three stories are well crafted and will no doubt will be talked about for some time. If this is an example of the future for DC, the future is bright and spectacular.

Ever since Ghost-Spider came to Earth-616 she has fully immersed herself into its bravado, and Seanan McGuire captures it brilliantly. In this issue we continue to see Gwens growth in dealing with multiverse traveling, leaving her dad behind in Earth-65, and not mention kale chips! Adding to her new-found stress is Miles Warren. Now, this might be the Spider-Nerd in me coming out, but seeing The Jackal just makes this issue that much better, and the need for issue three to hurry up and get here that much greater. Overall, I thought this issue was pretty good and does a good job at laying a decent foundation for Gwens future in Earth-616.

Every so often in comics, you get a writer that really understands the character. Seanan McGuire understands Gwen. You get a great sense that Gwen is starting to not trust herself and her abilities. This couldnt come at a worse time, as the Jackal and his plan are getting ready to be in full swing. Overall this was a strong set-up issue for #4 and what Im betting is going to be a great vehicle to deliver the Jackals plan.

The creative team of McGuire and Miyazawa continue to do a good job withGhost-Spider and capturing Gwens morality and sense of humor. Now I understand that there are bigger titles on the shelves right now, however, Ghost-Spider does a great job in making its claim to be a book that should be read.

I loathe the fact that I have to wait a whole month for issue 7, which Im sure will be FANTASTIC! Ok, no more puns, however, I am really excited to see how Latveria is going to play into it, the Storm siblings and their angle, can Gwen keep up with school, friends, her dad, and multi-verse travel? Too many questions to be answered!

Seanan McGuire continues to develop Gwen into a character that has the right blend of mystery, humor and attaches to readers with ease. The introduction of the Storms and The Maker has sent this book to another fantastic level of entertainment. In true McGuire fashion, there are so many questions filled with anticipation and intrigue going into the next issue, and I wouldnt have it another way.

These final thoughts always get me thinking about how to wrap up these reviews. With Ghost-Spider I find myself going back to boasting over McGuire and how see writes Gwen. This current arc is building the intrigue and making you crave more even after youve finished reading. Issue 8 really paints a broad picture of who Gwen is becoming. McGuire has set this so majestically that we will be talking about her time at the helm for years to come.

I am really enjoying this series and how Seanan McGuire continues to take Gwen into a direction all her own. With the addition of the Storms, I am hoping we will see a line of more villains for Gwen to take on. This issue has huge openings for more in-depth story arcs for Gwen and that is exciting.

Gotham Academy: First Year is a stellar addition to the Bat-mythos. Visually, Ferrari, De La Cruz, and Wands deliver a masterpiece integral to the storytelling. Portraying Gotham in a lush, moody, and gothic charm rather than Gothams normal grimness. A must-read!

Is this review extremely low-hanging fruit for me? Am I writing this review while listening to a stellar Loser from May 19, 1977, at the Fox Theater? Yes, yes I am. The Grateful Dead means different things to different people. This book starts that explanation, and as a fan of both the band and this book. I hope that Miskiewicz and Van Sciver come out for a second set and finish The Greatest Story Ever Told.

How can you not be excited for this new chapter of Green Arrow!? A golden ticket (if you will) of storytelling and art. Such a fun start to a classic characters new chapter.

This series continues to be dark, moody, and brooding, overfilling with raw emotion; masterfully capturing who and what Green Arrow is. I think this arc also brings to light a persons internal struggles and the weight of responsibilities. If this series is in your to be read pile, move it to the very top, and enjoy the ride.

This run continues to be cant miss reading for Green Arrow fans and is one of the best on the shelves today!

Gunslinger Spawn continues the beautifully hellish trend that started 29 years ago.

Zoe Thorogood spins a great yarn for this beloved horror series and I hope we see more. Just in time for spooky season, Back to School has something for everyone.

This book is relentless in both message and visual presentation. Each issue gets better, scarier, and bolder. There may be a lot to dive into with this issue, however, this is definitely one of those titles that have great staying power. Each character in this issue had great depth to really sink your fangs into.

Make no mistake about it, King in Black will be Marvels highlight series of 2020 and beyond. For about the past year we have seen a stellar campaign announcing this event and if the first issue is any indication of how the rest of the series will play out... buckle up because this is going to be huge and talked about for a long time to come.

What can we say about this issue without spoilers? Well, we do know that King in Black is masterfully crafted and continues to carve out a spot at the table of Marvel masterpieces, that much we do know for sure.

Questions upon questions upon questions. Im still not too sure what to think about the ending of this issue. I get why the character was brought in and I think there is brilliance for the deep pick and it makes all the sense in the world. If anything, this is further proof that Donny Cates is an evil genius at not showing his hand, and if there is anything that we have learned about Cates is that you never call his bluff. Personally, I think Im more concerned with Eddies new way of life than I am about Knull and whether or not he succeeds in his plans.

You can always tell when a creative team gels and fits perfectly together, this is one of those teams! An uncontested championship team of solid writing, art, and lettering. Even after Knull is defeated and things return to normal, Marvel should keep this team together on everything Ghost-Spider.

Tie-ins can get a bit boring and at times have a feeling that makes them stick out like a sore thumb with the current story. Planet of the Symbiotes does not have the feel at all. This was such a great addition to the King in Black story and is executed beautifully. Dont miss this book.

At times Rosenbergs offering feels like a modern-day Goonies story with super heroes and it works! What he manages to pull off towards the end and at the end with the reveal with a huge tease just cements what I said earlier about this book and its creative team. Dont miss out on King in Black: Thunderbolts #1.

As a long devoted Spawn fan, it was hard not to drool all over this review. There are some of my favorite creators telling a story that I never tire of. Whether it is the depth and passion that Sean Lewis writes with or the magnificent art of Brett Booth or Javi Fernandez, or Philip Tan, King Spawn #1 was the perfect offering, post Spawns Universe.

Overall, King Spawn #2 is another satisfying bloody offering that will send chills up your spine. As a long-time Spawn reader, I wasn't sure how these new titles were going to be. I was picking them up regardless as they belong with the other 300 plus issues in the long boxes. I wanted King Spawn to be good, and it turned out great.

As Sheriff Brackett said, everyones entitled to one good scare. King Spawn scares the sh*t out of me. It brings back memories of when I first saw Salems Lot and going on this journey that tapped into my fears, providing not only a good scare but an entertaining one. King Spawn is just that. Its entertaining, scary, and really fun.

Sean Lewis and Javier Fernandez continue to dominate the shelves. Issue after issue, they continue to put their passion into this book, and it shows. I know I sound like a broken record, but this is a great time to be a Spawn fan.

King Spawn 8 is yet another notch in the belt of fabulous comic book stories.

Sean Lewis and Javi Fernandez continue to find devilishly clever ways to keep entertaining readers month after month; King Spawn continues to be a top-tier book on the shelves.

Bottom line, no one is doing what Lewis, Fernandez, and Plascencia are doing.

King Spawn continues to be one of the best books on the shelves you're not reading!

KISS Zombies is entertaining and gruesome, with just enough references to KISS to keep it interesting for fans of all ages. The good thing about this book is that you dont have to be a fan of the band to enjoy this book, I truly believe this has something for everyone as its a good foundation of a zombie story, even though at times, it seems like weve read this before. I love that Dynamite continues to publish KISS comics, as this seems to be a bit stronger than previous books.

KISS: Zombies #2 delivers a fun and enjoyable version of the characters that have been kind of missing from past comics. Ethan Sacks and Rodney Buchemi continue to deliver a fun book, and keep the zombie story going. I absolutely love how they continue to incorporate songs into the panels forcing you to sing as you're reading.

I continue to love how this creative team and the fact they have kept a zombie story fresh with the appropriate amounts of horror, the occasional nod to the band, and maybe squeeze in a small chuckle, usually coming from the Catman or Space Ace. The way Ethan Sacks writes KISS: Zombies just makes you want toShout It Out Loud that this series is really cool.

I may be a bit biased in my final thoughts, and I know for some KISS is past its time and prime, and the comics are certainly not reaching out to a lot of people. I feel KISS: Zombies can smash those barriers and have a seat at the horror/zombie genre. Even if you dont Shout It Out Loud or dont know who Christine Sixteen is, you should still read KISS: Zombies!

Looking inward can be tough. However, when you have good stories to help navigate those tough times, it just feels good. And thats what Kold is, an honest tale about the soul that feels good.

Marvel Zombies: Resurrection was a fun read. Did it Marvel Zombies need to come back to the shelves? At first, I wasnt sure, however, I do know that Marvel Zombies: Resurrection does need to be on the shelves. Its a solid story that doesnt feel like a cheap reboot trying to recapture glory already told. Plain and simple it is worth reading that deserves space in your long box.

Masters of the Universe: Andra #1 relays a powerful message to the idea that true strength lies not in fear or doubt, but in the courage to persevere. A fantastic read!

If youre looking for a comic that feels epic, looks incredible, and reminds you why the fight for Eternia is so important, then youre going to love Masters of the Universe: The Sword of Flaws Part 2. Its a powerful addition to the MOTU legacy.

I love a good horror story.Mercy has elements of dark romance mixed with the perfect time really set the tone for a great story. Mirka Andolfos words and art have a plan, and that plan is to tell a top-notch horror story and put you into its binds and never let go.

The horror genre is overfilled like a community swimming pool, and at times makes for a daunting task trying to look for a good horror story that adds refreshment and brings something new or at least a new way of telling a familiar story. This is where Mirka Andolfo shines like a thousand suns. Her ability to surround Lady Hellaine with intrigue, mystery, and a splash of psychological horror makes Mercy a must-read!

Mercy #4 is by far the goriest and brutal issue yet, and what an issue it is! Horror is a delicate subject to take on. The good creators know how to make a good horror story with the right amount of blood and body flying around. Mirka Andolfo has tapped into that vein and managed to find a great recipe for a good horror story.

This is such a fun book! I adore Moon Girl and DD, I think she is a strong character that needs the right pen behind her, and I want to see more of Mohale Mashigo write Moon Girl. I enjoy team-up books when the mood is right. And if the mood is Moon Girl and Miles Morales, the mood is always right.

A fun start to Kamalas new mutant life and another fun Ms. Marvel story. Vellani and Pirzada captured Kamalas anxiety and big heart perfectly. I cant wait for the second issue!

I always enjoy finding hidden gems in music, comics, and movies. Night Wolf has been one of those hidden gems. The art, the story, the colors are just awesome. It is definitely one of those books that you come across that you keep telling everyone you know about it and wont leave them alone until theyve read it.

This was such an enjoyable read, this type of story is right in my wheelhouse and I love it when folks find new ways to tell familiar tales. It keeps readers entertained, it invites new readers, more importantly, it keeps the genre thriving. Night Wolf is worth every minute of your time.

Nightwing #132 is an emotional tale paired with phenomenal visuals. It succeeds in making the battle personal and shows why Nightwing not only fights for justice, but for hope. A must-read issue.

A socialite that has a secret identity and fights bad guys. I know what you are probably saying and its true, this story has been told before, however, only a select few stick around for decades, and this is one that has. Ninjak has always been my favorite Valiant title, I remember being a teenager and seeing the chromium cover just glisten and mesmerize me. I still have that same copy that I read to this day, and it still reads with just as much magic as it did back then.

I could talk till no end about this book. Theres three total in the storyline; I will definitely be writing reviews for those as they are just as great as The City of Empty Towers. Comics are great escapism. We rely on them to whisk us away to far-off lands and on glorious journeys. With The City of Empty Towers, it gloriously succeeds in doing just that.

Another glaring example that fun stories dont always sit on the shelves. PILGRIMS DIRGE deserves a spot in your long boxes. Head on over to (link) and reserve a copy of #1 and #2. You can thank me later!

This was a really fun book. I love the fact the BOOM used folks that have worked on Power Ranger books before. They went out and got a huge MMPR fan in Frank Gogol to round out the team and this formula works. There is not a bad panel in this book.

I adore books that throw caution to the wind and want to have fun. Theres an insane amount of passion on these pages; theres no doubt in my mind at some point in time that Phil Mucci watched the likes of Elvira and Svenghoolie and read EC Comics, though I could be wrong. However, what Im not wrong about is how much fun these stories are.

Final thoughts on Red Room #1. Brilliant. Taboo subjects are always going to be a touchy subject and some folks are simply turned off by that and thats perfectly fine. Red Room #1 is bold, gory, unsettling, but none the less a fun torturous ride.

I want more Red Room! I dont think Ive read a comic that Ive wanted to see in a movie form so badly since Y the Last Man. Red Room is top-notch horror storytelling that will not only age beautifully but will be heralded in the genre as an example of what good horror is supposed to be. Read Red Room!

Dont sleep on Red, White & Broke. Its fun, simple, and well put together. It has an outstanding balance of solid storytelling with a great pace that keeps you interested from cover to cover. I cant wait to see what issues 3 & 4 bring. Head on over to Kickstarter and back issues 3 & 4! You won't' be sorry.

Indie comics are fun. The always seems to put the creative teams hand all-in and bet big on and unsure thing. As dangerous as that is at times, sometimes its necessary to go all-in. In Resilient #1, the creative team does just that. They bet the house and win.

Scinematic Figments is a shining example of great stories that arent always found on your LCS shelves. Scinematic Figments is a truly immersive experience. Its great eye candy, filled with emotion in a brilliantly built world.

I want to talk more about how much I love this book but I dont want to water down this review with a bunch of hollow adjectives and not seem authentic. Bottom line: Scurry is a must-read.

Clever adjectives and metaphors aside, Zander Cannon has created a top-notch horror story that will scare the hell out of you.

Love is beautiful and Slice of Life will remind you of how beautiful it can be. You can read Slice of Life on Webtoons here and make sure you check out their Kickstarter forSlice of Life #2.

There is so much to enjoy with this book and serves as a solid introduction to G.I. Joe. I was excited when this project was announced and was not let down. Rob Liefeld has another hit on his hands for sure.

When you look back at the past 32 years of Spawn, you see familiar names on multiple issues, and theres a reason for that. Todd McFarlane has developed a world-class recipe for success, and while there are always going to be tweaks and minor updates one thing has never changedthe foundation. Heres to 350 more issues.

Comics are fun, and so is Specs! I love when a comic shatters my preconceived notions. This book is put together nicely; you can tell the creative team is gelling like the 96 Chicago Bulls. I cannot wait to see where this series goes.

Survival #1 is a fun and vicious tale that will have you clamoring for more. Whether you need to know more about Emmas past, or the origin of this ancient evil, Survival is your new horror addiction.

As usual, everything from the art, ink, and words are nothing short of spectacular. Something that I think that Dave Wachter does really well in this book is he complements the storyline with great art that smoothly transitions itself from page to page, making sure the art and storyline stay in sync. That is just one of the many elements that make TMNT 99 a really great and fun read. With issue 100 right around the corner, I can only imagine what is in store for us. It is going to seem like forever until we get our shells on 100.

I realize the turtles arent going anywhere, but seeing Shredder carry Master Splinter's lifeless body, gave me chills, my eyes watered, I closed the book and silently said thank you to Kevin Eastman, Peter Laird, Tom Waltz, and everyone that has ever drawn and wrote Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles. I truly cannot wait for the next 100 issues.

This issue was a lot to take in. With the catastrophic events of the last issue anything that follows was going to be put under a microscope by fans...and rightly so. Sophie Campbell came in and did something that I'm sure that the fandom was not expecting. She took over a beloved story and commanded over it like a battlefield general. We are in good hands.

Final thoughts? I wrote this section multiple times in the hope I could catch what I felt while reading this book, and Im not sure what my final thoughts are. Are they with Raph, Jenn, and Sally or are they with Leo, Donny, and Mikey? What about the torture Old Hob is delivering to innocent people? I guess my final thoughts are this. This was a damn good book that made you sit back and think about humanity and how we deal with each other.

Since issue 100, weve been on such a roller coaster of emotions. We (the readers) find ourselves looking within our own selves and asking how would we deal with this in our lives. What about Old Hob, is he right? Is he wrong? Instead of just moving-on from such a tragic event in the turtles lives, Sophie Campbell has decided we need to not just move-on but look into their souls and try to see a little bit of ourselves.

Since Sophie Campbell took over for TMNT, we have been absolutely spoiled with her amazing writing with the depth and direction she has given a beloved universe. Issue 104 continues that tradition in such a way, that when you close the book, all you can say is Yep, that is Sophie Campbell and she is marvelous.

Sophie Campbell and Ronda Pattison are simply awesome! What Sophie Campbell has done with her run on TMNT is pure genius, and Ronda's coloring is brilliance on a palette that shares in the excellence that is the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles.

This issue had me smiling from ear to ear with seeing the mousers, seeing Baxter Stockman start to show his true colors and take up a familiar helm. The family is starting to get back to normal, not to mention the new dojo looks great! We continue to be spoiled by Campbell, Pattison, Lee, and everyone else that touches this book. It is such a great time to be a turtles fan!

We are in a great era of the turtles story. I try not to sound like a broken record when talking about this creative team, but I just cannot help myself when it comes to the fabulous team of Campbell, Pattison, Lee, & Daniel and the phenomenal job they are doing. There has never been a better time to jump into the Turtle Van and go for a ride.

Campbell and Pattison continue to move this book along with such style, grace, and rabid passion that puts them on their own level against any other creator and title on the shelves today. Adding Nelson Daniel only compliments the team with his familiar style that is perfect for the turtles.

With this review being spoiler-free, I wanted to touch on the fact that this team continues to produce one of the best books on the shelves. As I have said on numerous occasions in my reviews Sophie Campbell, Ronda Pattison, Jodi Nishijima, Shawn Lee, Tom Waltz, and Kevin Eastman have something so magical and beautiful that I can honestly say we are in the midst of excellence and in time this run will be looked at as not only a must for TMNT fans but a must for any discussions of creative teams that left their mark on the industry and their brand.

There is a lot to unpack in this issue. From Mona, Sally, and then the spectacular ending, even after reading it a couple of times Im still grinning from ear to ear. With every issue, I am still amazed at how this team continues to take the turtles to new avenues and keep it fresh and exciting issue after issue. Do yourself and favor and read this book!

I dont think this issue is as big as 100, however, I would definitely keep your shells peeled (pun intended) on upcoming issues. There are panels that have so much speculation in them that the excitement is at an all-time high. Its a great time to be reading TMNT!

This issue has some heavy elements to unpack. I feel with this issue dealing with Jenny and her situation I cant help to think back to my times when I felt some turbulence in life and really didnt know where to turn for answers. Jenny has a lot to think about as do the rest of the family moving forward with Lita. What does the future hold for the family? Only Sophie and Company know and Im confident that we are getting ready to enter one hell of an arc and possibly one that will force the reader to pick sides. As I say with almost every reviewits a great time to be a TMNT fan!

Another great installation in the IDW series. This book was super fun, and the passion of the creative team continues to rain down on the pages of each issue. All in all, this issue is really well built with the right amount of cheesy humor, good fight scenes, and classic TMNT speculation at the end.

Another great installment and sets up #117 beautifully. I think we're due for another shocking event that will shake things up a bit and I believe we are seeing the building blocks for that very event.

I emphatically believe that Campbell, Pattison, and Lee are one of the best teams on the shelves of any ongoing series. This issue is just another layer of proof. This book is beautiful on many levels, with big reveals, bigger speculation, and...love. I hope you enjoyed this issue as much as I did.

This isnt goodbye. Well see the familiar names on future TMNT projects, and when we do we will be lifted away by great memories of this legendary era. Its been a helluva run. Thank you.

Here we are with the TMNT Annual 2020 and it was so much fun to read, it felt like catching up with old friends. Now if my choice of friends is the Rat King and Krang I may need to reevaluate my qualifications for friendship. In all seriousness, I dont know what else to say about The Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles and this great creative team that has and continues to bring so much joy to their fans. This creative team cares so much about what they put out and it shows. So, in my final thoughts, I just want to say thank you to Kevin Eastman, Tom Waltz, Sophie Campbell, Ronda Pattison, Nathan Daniel, Shawn Lee, Mateus Santolouco, and everyone else that has worked on this series. Thank you for the memories.

This beautifully explores the unbreakable bond of the turtles, even when their differences threaten to pull them apart. Jason Aaron and Co. have created another gripping and heartfelt chapter in TMNT lore.

Here we are again with another great arc of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles. Another outstanding creative has left us with chill bumps and watery eyes at times, but never let us down. Regardless of when or how much you have read of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, you would be doing yourself a disservice to not add this run to your TBR list!

Comics are fun! Im not sure how you arent overcome with reptilian excitement over this massive crossover. From the creative team to the turtles, to kaiju, this book has something for everyone. Dont miss this!

With Jennika #1, we finally get to see who Jenny is. In keeping with the main TMNT storyline, Jennika keeps the same feeling and warrior spirit that we are used to seeing from her character. This was a good start at what Im sure will be a great mini-series that will have old fans shaking their head in approval and maybe wrangle some new fans in.

Brahm Revel and Ronda Pattison continue Jennikas story with a rock-solid foundation. The way these stories work together is magnificent, they completely complement each other, I know that we are only two books into the series but this is beginning to look like a cannot miss series.

TMNT: Jennika II starts off just as magnificently as it ended. The amount of passion that is on display from Brahm Revel is beautiful reassurance that Jennika will join the likes of other strong comic book female characters in due time. This book is nothing short of fabulous!

To be a true warrior one must know when to crouch, when to leap, and when to stand firm The Last Ronin. These teachings stick with The Last Ronin just as much as the guilt he carries. Regardless of who The Last Ronin is, we cant ignore the path our hero has traveled and the pain theyve felt in their journey. For TMNT fans this has been a long time coming to see Laird and Eastman back together again. They have surrounded themselves with an all-star team that shares their passion for TMNT storytelling and the end product is nothing short of amazing. Frank Miller has The Dark Knight Returns and now Laird, Eastman, and Waltz have The Last Ronin. This is going to be one hell of a story.

Another issue with so much to unpack. Now that we know who The Last Ronin is, and we start to get a glimpse of his past, his emotions become our emotions. His pain is our pain. His battles are out battles. The Last Ronin #2 is another well-built story that hits all the wickets on what readers want and have come to expect from a TMNT story.

The great thing about spoiler-free reviews is that it forces to look inward on how the book makes you feel. Its fun to go panel by panel, but theres something magical about digging deep into your feelings and making that the tone of the review. The Last Ronin does just that. It makes you settle in and take notice of what is on the page. The Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles are who we are. Now, by extension, we are The Last Ronin.

If execution is the key to good storytelling, then this team has the keys to the entire damn neighborhood. A solid first issue with all of the components that you look for in a comic and fascinating storytelling.

Horror done right! Alex Cormack and David Pepose have created something that makes your skin crawl, your heart speed up, and will leave you terrified, and wanting more.

This is one of those books that sits on the shelf and might get some looks from non Venom fans. Another Venom one-shot; oh yay, but this is not the case. This book has the right amount of Venom that will please fans, at the same time, adding about a cup of Deadpool shenanigans, making for a fun read that produces some good chuckles alongside blood splatter. Make sure this book gets on your read list for sure

These new Spawn books remind me of the Grateful Dead. Creating great tales and letting their craft have the loudest voice. Those who get it get it, and those who dont, dont. However, just like with the Grateful Dead, the music never stopped, and with Sean Lewis & Co, the stellar comics never stop.

When the EiC threw this book at me to review, I knew that in order to write a proper review, this needed to be written while high. In the first half, I succeeded, but in the bottom half not so much. Also, I need to say that I have moved on to a super dope version of Widespread Panics Bust it Big from their show at Red Rocks in 2013. B.P. may not approve but the kush wants what the kush wants. Final thoughts about a book that dispels the bullsh*t surrounding marijuana and the bullsh*t laws that keep it hampered its badass! If this was a party, this creative team definitely brought their own weed, and its gas!

The back and forth between the characters is compelling, with moments of uneasiness with a dab of dark humor that keep the story going. Tons of emotional complexity that lead to some good speculation going forward. This series is so much fun and a must-read.

Tremor Dose is a brilliant read. Ive been reading comics for over 30 years and I cant remember a book that burrowed itself so deep in my mind that it almost takes over and you become overcame with cravings to read it over and over. Its a rarity that you find a book that makes you champion that book to your friends as a must-own. READ THIS BOOK!

This was a fun book; Im definitely backing issue #2, which is live on Kickstarter right now. You can head on over to www.cutthroatcomics.com and grab some earlier books of our heroes and get more acquainted with Josh Nealis Universe. I know I am!

If you took Never Been Kissed and 21 Jump Street and turned them into a modern day drama directed by David Lynch, you would have Under the Influence! Everything about his book works together really well; its a fun story but, at the same time, a sad one that is all too real.

I am such a stan when it comes to the Universal Monsters, I just cant get enough. When this issue came up for review, I was excited. Again, this is such a fun first issue, and this creative team has the passion that the Mummy deserves!

Regardless of who houses Usagi Yojimbo, the story remains the same. Simplicity in its greatest form, and Stan Sakai is the best at it.

Theres never been a better time to jump into the series! Stan Sakai continues to craft magnifi cant stories with timeless characters.

I love all horror. I especially love horror that has sustenance without trying to overdo it. Usher of the Dead is a complete package from writing, lettering, art, and ink. I cant recommend it enough!

Donny Cates continues to pilot Venom with twists and turns while sustaining his quest to re-write Venom in his own light all the while paying homage to early Venom such as "Sinner Takes All." All in all this issue was rife with revelation, excitement, and anticipation for whats to come.

Donny Cates continues to deliver in every aspect of Venom. Not only does he manage to successfully tie-in Absolute Carnage to Venom, but he excels at telling a story within a story that keeps you begging for more. With that being said I need to make sure that Iban Coellos and Rain Beredos work does not go on without recognition, as they are just as much as responsible for delivering a dynamic coloring to excellent words that keep us coming back

We finished issue twenty with a huge bang that leaves more questions. I absolutely adore that Absolute Carnage is over and we can get down to business and really dig into the series again. Im not saying this series was stale prior to, however, with Absolute Carnage and its tie-ins, Cates can only do so much when the main story becomes the side story for a few months. I for one, cannot wait until issue 21 and hopefully shedding light on some dark questions.

Cates and Bagley continue to perfectly capture every single detail that makes every single panel believably real and tell a story that continues to be one of the best on the shelves. Just when you think you have an idea of what direction Cates is going in, you turn the page and find yourself in a state of shock and surprise.

Ive been reading Venom comics since the early 90s. He has been a constant favorite of mine regardless of the host. Venom #24 has taken me back to my teenage years when I would read a Venom book and my mouth was ajar the whole time I was turning pages. Anticipation, fear, and excitement all in one book.

Venom is back in full swing and it feels great! We have finally (maybe) seen how powerful Dylan is and can be. Reading this issue I thought the next logical step has to be seeing Dylan start to hone his powers and become his true self. After reading it a few more times, maybe the next step is to see how Eddie deals with life after Absolute Carnage and "Venom Island."

Donny Cates is symbiote royalty. What he continues to with Venom and Eddie is truly remarkable and makes one of the more solid books from the Big 2. Venom #26 is far from a bad book, it just has a weird feel to it and thats okay. In Cates We Trust.

Here we are, another Venom issue down and another appearance of Knull and a visit to the Ultimate Universe. Im not too sure what to think about being in 1610 and if I like Eddie and Dylan in 1610, however, this is Donny Cates. He knows Venom and he knows how to tell a great Venom story and that is what this is.

Final thoughts on Venom #28: well Venomaniacs, I'm still taking this issue in and contemplating what this does for the book going forward. This is probably the biggest issue that Cates has written since taking over the book and is yet another example of why he belongs on the Mt. Rushmore of Venom writers.

Donny Cates continues to spoil the Venomaniacs with hit after hit. Venom #30 is a great example of how to end an arc by mixing the right amount of action, emotion, and intrigue. This is such a great time to be a Venom fan.

There are quite a few hypothetical questions that have shown up in this issue, now they could be just that and nothing more but this is Donny Cates we're talking about. Much like Eddie and Dylan, we are all waiting to see what Cates will do next. It's almost inhumane to make us wait a full month for #32!

Cates, Coello, Aburtov, and Cowles have become the Super Friends when it comes to Venom. Ive talked about my undying love for this team on numerous occasions and it never gets old. How can it! Issue after issue it is one badass plot after another. Their efforts have become a thrill ride into Venom lore and will be continually talked about in comic circles for decades to come.

Theres nothing left to say except... thank you.

Its rare for lightning to strike twice, but in Marvels case, it has not only struck twice but with the impact of a ten-ton hammer. When you reach the end of this issue, you will need to pick your jaw off the floor and a scotch.

Super fun book! Honestly, tie-ins are hit or miss with me, but with Venomous #1, I wanted more! Im bummed that this is only 3 issues, I would love to see this team on a regular symbiote series.

Maria Llovett is one of those creators that has become an instant buy whenever I see her name on the shelf. Violent Flowers is no exception; the only downside is waiting for the next issue.

Voyage to the Stars #1 is a great first issue, mixing science fiction and comedy. If you are a fan of the podcast chances are you will be a fan of the comic. If you have never heard of the podcast but like zany and over the top (but tasteful) comedy than you will like this book. It is a fun read and it is going to a fun ride with this bunch.

Im ecstatic that Warhammer has come to Marvel. Warhammer has fantastic lore that is loved by millions the world over. This first issue in this mini-series is a fabulous start to what I hope is the start of many more series to come. Space Marines, Chaos Daemons, Nekrons, Orcs, there is so much more to get into that I really hope Marvel dives into the vast pool that is Warhammer.

Warhammer, whether Fantasy or 40K, can be overwhelming in choosing where to start. Marvel can milk the Warhammer for years and keep readers happy. What has been refreshing in Marvels approach is that they have assembled teams that work extremely well with each other, producing two outstanding stories that ease new readers in. When I heard of the Sisters of Battle series coming out, I was so stoked because I love Warhammer, and I loved this book. Even if you are not familiar with the Sisters of Battle, I urge you to go and check this book out. Its great sci-fi, and every page is filled with phenomenal writing and art.

The cool thing about Web of Venom: Wraith #1 is there is so much to grab on to. Sci-fi, horror, a loner looking for revenge, intriguing mystery. When you package all of these up you get a pretty rad story that is worth the price of admission.

I wasnt prepared for how real this book would feel or how strong the characters would be. I enjoy both Rosenberg and Boss so, it seemed like a no-brainer when this book came up that I would act like it was Black Friday, and I was in line for a tv. This book is super fun; I wish I could talk more about it. I will say this, once you read the book, listen to the Husker Du song, Ill Never Forget You, from their Zen Arcade album. It could be me, but theres something there.

I am enjoying Benjamin Percy on Wolverine, I guess it helps that I quite enjoy both, but I digress. Issue #6 really does a great job of capturing Logan in his best form. We see him stand up to Krakoa, get a trip through his mind, see his determination on display. Now there were times that the book felt cramped on the pages but as I said previously, that probably lies more with me. Introducing a new character, especially a villain is always exciting and Solem definitely has a creepiness to him that I cannot wait to see how he plays out.

In keeping this review spoiler-free I can only say so much. The more I read this book the more I come to the realization that even if this wasnt a spoiler-free review I would still not include spoilers just because this book deserves better treatment than that. It deserves the readers full attention and it deserves to bask in its glory when the reader falls in love with the contents.

I love Greek mythology and I love Wonder Woman so Im in resting easy in the Elysian Fields with this current run on Wonder Woman. Who knows when she will get this whole afterlife thing settled and Im ok with that because we are getting some of the best Wonder Woman weve seen in a very long time. Writing, art, ink, lettering, the whole package is absolutely well done.

Wonder Woman + Harley Quinn + Amanda Connor + Jimmy Palmiotti = One hell of a fun read, and an all-around good time. Wonder Woman, along with this creative team was just super fun and I can't recommend this book enough.

There is a lot going on with Wonder Woman: Agent of Peace #2. We see a great pairing with Wonder Woman and Lois, great environment art, and the uneasiness of everyone is in danger with great fluid movement in the story. Seeing Lois handle herself with such grace in the face of danger was fantastic. This was a great story, plain and simple.

Wonder Woman: Agent of Peace is a fun series that keeps delivering stories that differ from one another without going too far off-grid. "Planned Extinction" is a lot of fun while delivering a great heartfelt message without being drawn-out with unneeded seriousness.

As a wrestling fan, I could go on and on about how fun this book is, and waiting for the next issues is going to be like watching Goldberg wrestle. Painful. However, Starks 3:16 says you just got entertained! Such a fun read.

Year Zero is such a phenomenal book with a creative team that is top-notch. The simple fact that we get five characters dealing with life in their own way and carrying on and not the same old paint-by-numbers zombie horror book is fabulous. Ben Percy has such a great knack for storytelling and Year Zero is just another example of his talent.

Year Zero is a super solid zombie book. With Percy's words along with Rosanas and Loughridge artistic take on his words, this book stands out on its own and demands to be noticed and taken seriously among all the other zombie stories. There are very few creative teams that feel as in sync as this team does. The only downside to Year Zero is that it's not an ongoing series.