Priya Saxena Comic Reviews

Amethyst: Princess of Gemworld is a well-executed story about a young girl who rediscovers her magical homeworld and works with her friends to save the day. The writers make the young characters feel believable as kids, while the artist brings a dreamy ambiance to the story and conveys the characters personalities through their expressions and outfits. Every kid dreams of magical worlds, and kids reading this graphic novel get to live that dream vicariously through Amaya.

Batgirls #1 superbly kicks off a long-anticipated series with a creative team that is doing outstanding work on all levels. Whether youre a longtime devotee of the Batgirls or simply intrigued by the hype, this comic is a must-read.

Batgirls #2 fleshes out the setting of the Hill and builds on previously introduced plot threads while reinforcing the emotional connection between the three Batgirls. With this second issue, this series seems to be developing an intricate and compelling story with the Batgirls friendship at its core.

The situation in the Hill seems to be becoming more and more dangerous, as Tutor manipulates others by using his mind-control gas. In the midst of all this peril, it is more important than ever that the Batgirls support each other, but Stephs insecurities over being susceptible to mind-control may throw a wrench in the team dynamics going forward.

Batgirls #4 gives Cass and Steph some downtime within their community, which helps remind them why they became Batgirls in the first place. The issue also sees the Batgirls defeat one villain while playing right into the hands of another. This series continues to emphasize the importance of the Batgirls friendships with one another, as showcased in the climactic fight with Tutor in this issue. The bonds of friendship may be strengthened, but the Batgirls continue to get in over their heads facing the many, many villains of the Hill.

Batgirls #5 shows the Batgirls first working together as a team and then splitting up and preparing to face enemies by themselves. This issue is as dynamic and fun as all the ones preceding it, and it seems like the finale to this first story arc next issue will be thrilling.

Batgirls #6 sees the Batgirls defeat villains Tutor and Spellbinder, confronting their own pasts in the process. The past histories of the Batgirls are referenced, but not in a way that would alienate new readers unfamiliar with the characters. This issue elegantly ends its first arc and begins to set up its next arc.

This anthology showcases a variety of Spider-Verse heroes and gives creators from underrepresented backgrounds the chance to tell fun, meaningful stories with them. It's an excellent read whether you are a long-time Spider-Verse fan or just getting into the characters.

Spirit World #1 is an exciting blend of action, horror, and magic that will leave readers eager to see more of Xanthe and the Spirit World they inhabit.

X-23: Deadly Regenesis #1 reintroduces the reader to Laura at a difficult time in her life and shows how she hopes to use her assassin skills to do good, while also introducing a new antagonist to challenge her. The issue effectively uses flashbacks to remind the reader of Lauras past and demonstrate how she and others are still affected by it.

X-Terminators #1 is as hilarious as it is blood-soaked. This comic knows how silly its being and wants the reader to know it knows. Its particular brand of violence and humor may not be for everyone, but those who enjoy the concept of Dazzler roller-skating through puddles of blood chewing gum and blasting vampires are sure to love it.

X-Terminators #2 has all the violence, cheesecake, and silliness of the first issue while continuing to develop the plot. It explores concepts of objectification and performance while staying true to its grindhouse aesthetic.

With X-Terminators #3, the series continues to explore ideas of female sexuality, violence, and spectacle, while amping up the raunchy humor.

X-Terminators #4 highlights the ingenuity and compassion of Dazzler, Jubilee, Boom Boom, and Wolverine as they escape the Collector's space prison and rescue the other prisoners as well. Their flawless teamwork and friendly camaraderie show how close the four women have grown over the course of their adventure.

X-Terminators was exactly what it advertised: sexy, violent, and ridiculous. This final issue leaves the story's heroines victorious as they finally get vengeance for the hell they were put through in the previous four issues. It's uplifting and delightful, and though it's a satisfying conclusion to the story, it's so good that you can't help but want more.