Welcome to another edition of the world-famous* Captain Comics Comics Guide! It's another big week, as manga has made a comeback and a number of publishers are shipping first issues. The bad news: There's something amiss with Archie. But we'll get to all that shortly. In the meantime, remember the standing info about the Guide:
1. All information subject to change.
2. Click on any piece of art for a larger image.
(* If you consider "the world" to be "my house.")
Onward!
THE CAPTAIN'S PICKS
BATMAN: LI’L GOTHAM VOL. 1 (TPB)
Writers: DEREK FRIDOLFS, DUSTIN NGUYEN
Art/Cover: DUSTIN NGUYEN
128 pg, FC, $12.99 U.S.
Frequent collaborators Dustin Nguyen and Derek Fridolfs unite to bring you the all-ages hit BATMAN: LI'L GOTHAM VOL. 1! Co-written by Nguyen and Fridolfs, this series is beautifully brought to life by Nguyen's distinct watercolor artwork for DC's Digital-First line. Not just for kids, BATMAN: LI'L GOTHAM is a must-read for any DC Comics fan, as Fridolfs and Nguyen dig deep into the vast DC Comics history to feature many beloved characters in easy to read stories.
"The look and style is a slight departure from my usual (think the exact opposite of serious), but the idea has always been the same-to take our favorite existing Gotham characters, place them in fun scenarios without having to be tied to just one continuity or look and feel. It's basically a Batman book for fans, by two huge fans," says Nguyen.
With each issue focusing on a different holiday-themed adventure, these short stories follow Batman and friends as they take out and outsmart Gotham's baddest villains. Re-imagining fan favorites in an endearing family friendly format, BATMAN: LI'L GOTHAM truly embodies the term "all-ages."
"The strength of BATMAN: LI'L GOTHAM has long been in the enthusiasm and pure love creators Nguyen and Fridolfs have for the characters and world." -- COMIC BOOK RESOURCES
"BATMAN: LI'L GOTHAM fills a void that has been growing increasingly larger in all-ages superhero comics." -- NEWSARAMA
"This is a Bat book every DC fan should be reading." -- IGN
Don’t miss these holiday-centric, all-ages tales starring Batman and all his crimefighting compadres from BATMAN: LI’L GOTHAM #1-6! This title includes appearances by The Penguin, Mr. Freeze, Catwoman, Poison Ivy and Harley Quinn!
Yes, it's a "kiddie" book, but it's a really well-done one, and is enjoyable for adults as well. If you've got kids, this would be a great book to share with them. And if you don't have kids, it's one heckuva guilty pleasure.
JOURNEY INTO MYSTERY BY KIERON GILLEN: THE COMPLETE COLLECTION VOL. 1 (TPB)
Writer: KIERON GILLEN & ROB RODI
Art: DOUG BRAITHWAITE, PASQUAL FERRY, RICH ELSON, WHILCE PORTACIO & MITCH BREITWEISER
Cover: STEPHANIE HANS
392 PGS./Rated T+ …$34.99
Loki has been reborn as a child, but will he be Asgard’s savior? FEAR ITSELF looms, and the Serpent threatens Earth! The mortals’ only hope is that Thor can fulfill an ancient prophecy, but the plan is doomed to fail without help from young Loki. The former Lord of Lies’ only chance of success is to use all the skills of deceit that made him so hated in his past life. But will the reborn godling find redemption -- or damn himself further? And in the war’s aftermath, Nightmare is gathering enough energy to rule the world -- and the mother lode is inside Loki’s mind. Aided by an undead handmaiden and a demon puppy, Loki will risk everything on a scheme so crazy, it could only have been hatched by a God of Mischief! Collecting JOURNEY INTO MYSTERY (1952) #622-636 and #626.1.
This is the first of, I think, two TPBs that will collect Kieron Gillen's run on Journey into Mystery, which starred Kid Loki, the resurrected half-brother of Thor as an innocent kid -- albeit one who is the God of Mischief, so "innocent" isn't entirely accurate.
Kid Loki is a wonder. He adores his older brother and protector Thor, with the unabashed hero worship only a kid can project. He's got a painful boyhood crush on Sif, of course. And, although this Loki isn't the same one who caused so much grief in the past in Asgard, that's not how the other gods see it -- and he is reviled by those whose approval he desperately needs. His only "friend" is Volstagg, who paternal instincts are aroused, but tempered by his hatred of the adult Loki. And, of course, as the God of Mischief, the other gods are right to be a little suspicious of Kid Loki -- he generally IS up to something, or several somethings. But Gillen wisely never tips Loki's hand, and we, like the other gods, must wonder at every turn whether the old evil Loki still lurks behind that innocent smile.
By turns heart-warming, painful, hilarious and mysterious, Gillen's Loki story is top-flight storytelling and a riveting, unforgettable read. Highly recommended.
UNDERTOW #1
Writer: STEVE ORLANDO
Art/Cover: ARTYOM TRAKHANOV
Variant Cover: SIMON ROY
32 PAGES / FC / M / $2.99
If you want to break free of the system, Redum Anshargal can offer you a place at his side.
With Atlantis now a world superpower, Anshargal and his hostage-protege Ukinnu Alal hunt the Amphibian, a legendary creature that may be the key to an air-breathing life on land. In UNDERTOW #1, writer Steve Orlando (MYSTERY IN SPACE) and artist Artyom Trakhanov bring pulp monster adventure to comics and debut a new take on Atlantis in this new series.
“UNDERTOW takes a lot of expectations about Atlantis fiction and turns them on their head. Here, Atlanteans evolved to the spot where humans are in our world, or maybe just a bit past it. This Earth is fundamentally different because of it, from the geography to the animals to the technology,” explained Orlando, “Atlantis has had to develop technology that can function underwater. ... Those who breathe water are the ruling power. And those who breathe air? Humans are a wild species, living like pack animals all over the surface, adapting to their environments. Wild, thick-coated polar humans, hairless tropical humans, even monstrous humans evolved from island gigantism. For Redum Anshargal, finding an Atlantean that can breathe air might just be his chance to give his people a shot at life on land, a chance to finally be free of Atlantis' corruption.”
Typically, Atlantis is thought of as “the lost city,” but in UNDERTOW, the opposite is true. “This was a chance to take Atlantis a few centuries into the present day, just like most other monarchies. And making it modern makes it a great way to show the truly strange face of the deep ocean,” said Orlando. “Now Atlantis can do what speculative fiction shoul -- it can be a weird mirror to our own world, just a half step away -- more relatable than ever before, and thus, even more frightening.”
For more info on what UNDERTOW is and where the idea came from, check out this interview with Steve Orlando on the official Image Comics website, imagecomics.com.
This solicitation/press release really has me curious. Why use Atlantis if you're not using the mythology associated with it? What does it mean to have the the land-sea power structure inverted? And what would thick-coated polar humans look like?
Image has really been on a roll lately, with a murderer's row of new titles that are just killing it -- Black Science, Ghosted, Revival, Saga, Satellite Sam, Sex Criminals, Umbral, Velvet and the like are getting orgasmic reviews. I don't know if Undertow will join that list, but the it appears somebody at the helm knows what they're doing, so the odds are good.
VAMPIRELLA: THE ESSENTIAL WARREN YEARS VOL. 1 (TPB)
Writer: Archie Goodwin, Steve Englehart, Forrest J. Ackerman
Artists: Jose Gonzalez, Tom Sutton, Gonzalo Mayo
Cover: Enrique
Mature / 448 pages / $24.99
Finally, the legend of Vampirella can be told... from her very beginning! The Essential Warren Years collects the complete story of Vampirella, the raven-haired heroine and beloved horror hostess! Starting with her first appearance in "Vampirella of Drakulon" by Forrest J. Ackerman and Tom Sutton, and spanning each and every fear-fraught issue from the first five years of Vampirella Magazine, this massive tome not only introduces one of the most iconic characters in horror comic history, but her hypnotic supporting cast: the Conjuress, Pendragon, Adam Van Helsing, the Cult of Chaos, and the undead lord Dracula! Featuring the creative talents of Archie Goodwin, Jose Gonzalez, Steve Englehart, Gonzalo Mayo, and more! The complete softcover collection of Vampirella's appearances from her first five years of publication (1969-1974, issues #1-37), available in a massive 450-page omnibus edition.
This is an excellent idea for those who just want to read the Vampi stories from her eponymous Warren magazine. It's a darn sight cheaper than buying the HC Vampirella magazine collections! Plus, you don't have to wade through all the non-Vampi stories.
As to the quality of those Vampirella stories, they were uneven at best. Some of the Archie Goodwin material is pretty good, but Vampi's origin story ("Planet Drakulon"? Ugh!) was campy and silly, and there was a period where Vampi would fall into bed with some guy every issue, only for that guy to be dead by the end -- it got a little repetitive. And, honestly, her supporting cast were a little tedious at the best of times. But it's all history now, and if you're a Vampi fan this is essential reading.
WHITE SUITS #1
Writer: Frank Barbiere
Artist: Toby Cypress
Cover Artist: Toby Cypress
FC, 32 pages; Miniseries, $3.99
Mysterious killers dressed in white, they savaged the Cold War Russian underworld -- then disappeared. Now they have resurfaced in New York, leaving a trail of dead mobsters. In this bloody wake, an amnesiac and an FBI agent search for the answer to a single question: Who are the White Suits?
* Debuted in the award-winning Dark Horse Presents.
* Violent noir action from Frank Barbiere (Blackout) and Toby Cypress (Blue Estate, Predator).
This looks like a genuinely interesting concept. And since it premiered in Dark Horse Presents, it's already got a successful track record. I'll trade-wait it, but I'm anxious to see it.
ARCHIE COMICS
Severeal Archie titles were supposed to ship last week, according to the solicitations, but were bumped. I expected to see them this week, along with the six new titles (and one second printing, below) that were scheduled for this week. But not only did they not show up, but the six new titles for this week were bumped as well! Frankly, that's a little disturbing. Let's all cross our fingers for a big Archie week on Feb. 26!
AFTERLIFE WITH ARCHIE #3 (2ND PRINTING)
Writer: ROBERTO AGUIRRE-SACASA
Cover: FRANCESCO FRANCAVILLA
Riverdale Yearbook Variant Cover: TIM SEELEY
32-page, full color comic, $2.99 U.S.
Afterlife With Archie, the acclaimed ongoing series written by Harvey award-winning writer Roberto Aguirre-Sacasa and Eisner award-winning artist Francesco Francavilla, has now sold out for a third consecutive issue at Diamond.
"We're thrilled that Afterlife #3 has sold out," said Archie Comics Publisher Jon Goldwater. "This is the first time in the history of Archie Comics that three consecutive issues have sold out and we plan to continue this hot streak for many issues to come. Thank you to the fans and retailers who continue to support this great new book from Archie Comics.”
One of 2013’s most talked about comic books, Afterlife With Archie landed on several year end best of lists including HOLLYWOOD REPORTER, COMIC BOOK RESOURCES, NERDIST, SALON, THE ADVOCATE, BLEEDING COOL, BLOODY DISGUSTING, iFANBOY, COMIXOLOGY and many more.
Afterlife With Archie is Archie’s first-ever direct-market-only ongoing series. Series artist Francavilla has created another brand new cover for the 2nd printing of Afterlife With Archie #3. Stay tuned as the horror and suspense continue to build from issue to issue!
For more information visit AfterlifeWithArchie.com.
Speaking of things being bumped, Afterlife with Archie #4 was originally scheduled for Jan. 8, and still hasn't appeared. But I'm not really surprised by that -- if you read these Guides every week, you can see that Francesco Francavilla is spread pretty thin, and all of his projects are running late. The ship date for every single issue of his second Black Beetle miniseries has come and gone. (And my guess is those orders will be canceled and the book re-solicited -- someday.)
UPDATE UPDATE UPDATE!
In my Monday (Feb. 17) e-mail, I got confirmation of the following book shipping this week -- even though Diamond still doesn't list it. (Which makes me wonder how many of my previous Guides weren't accurate vis-a-vis Archie.) Anyway, here it is:
BETTY & VERONICA #270
Writers: ANGELO DECESARE, GEORGE GLADIR
Art: JEFF SHULTZ, BOB SMITH, JACK MORELLI, DIGIKORE STUDIOS
Covers: FERNANDO RUIZ, BOB SMITH, ROSARIO "TITO" PENA
Chibi Tea Party Variant Cover: RYAN JAMPOLE, GARY MARTIN, ROSARIO "TITO" PENA
32-page, full-color comic, $2.99 U.S.
Excited for a new Betty & Veronica story? How about FOUR new B&V tales? First, in “The Minds of Betty and Veronica,” we get an inside look at what the two BFFs REALLY think of each other—and their thoughts may surprise you! Then in “The Wish,” find out what happens when Betty FINALLY gets Archie all to herself! Next in “The Shopping Scene,” can Veronica turn her shopping haul into profit? This time her spending spree may just help Daddykins’ wallet! Finally, in “The Winning Float,” it’s girls vs. boys! Find out if the gals of Riverdale have what it takes to make the best float at the Homecoming game!
DARK HORSE
BLOOD BLOCKADE BATTLEFRONT VOLUME 5 (TPB)
Writer/Art: Yasuhiro Nightow
B&W, 208 pages, $12.99
TP, 4 5/8’’ x 7 1/4’’
MEGAMADNESS FROM THE CREATOR OF TRIGUN!
An escaped Blood Breed brings Libra operative Zap Renfro’s former master to New Jerusalem, and Zap must once again prove his skills to avoid being dragged back to the harsh training grounds of his school. And though Zap is a formidable fighter, he’ll need the assistance of the other Libra agents and his own young apprentice to imprison the Blood Breed before it wreaks untold havoc upon our world!
Trigun: Badlands Rumble animated film now available in North American markets.
“Everything we’ve come to expect from Nightow, all done up in his signature style.” -- Comic Attack
This is another book that has appeared on initial lists only to be bumped before ship date at least three times. I haven't any idea why that would be.
BLOOD-C VOLUME 3 (TPB)
Writer: CLAMP
Art: Ranmaru Kotone
B&W, 200 pages, $12.99
TP, 5 1/8” x 7 1/4”
CLAMP’s unique contribution to the Blood+ saga!
As the ruse of her small-town life comes crashing down around her, Saya Kisaragi uncovers the mastermind behind a huge plan to deceive and test her! Katanas clash in CLAMP and Production I.G’s vampire-battling saga, taking the story right up to events in the feature-length anime film Blood-C: The Last Dark!
• Based on CLAMP’s original story line and character designs!
• Dark Horse has sold over 70,000 copies of previous Blood+ volumes!
Saya strikes back at those who would manipulate her!
B.P.R.D. HELL ON EARTH #116
Writers: Mike Mignola, John Arcudi
Art: James Harren
Colors: Dave Stewart
Cover: Rafael Albuquerque
Variant cover: Richard Corben
FC, 32 pages, $3.50
Ongoing
The BPRD joins a band of resistance fighters in the ruins of Manhattan to fight the Black Flame and his evil regime of Zinco troops and monsters!
• Second of 5 special variant covers celebrating 20 years of Hellboy!
• Art by James Harren (Conan the Barbarian)!
“A book that knows its stride and may be the best of its kind.” -- Comic Bastards
“B.P.R.D. Hell on Earth brings the creepiness every month.” -- Comic Book Resources
B.P.R.D. Hell on Earth™ © 2013 Mike Mignola.
The "ruins of Manhattan"? I need to catch up on my B.P.R.D. collections!
CONAN THE BARBARIAN #25
Writer: Brian Wood
Art: Leandro Fernand
Colors: Dave Stewart
Cover: Massimo Carnevale
FC, 32 pages, $3.50
Ongoing
The final issue of Brian Wood’s acclaimed “Queen of the Black Coast”!
Conan is rapidly losing his battle against a creature of unimaginably dark power. With nothing left to live for, his only hope for survival -- much less victory -- takes shape in a familiar and impossible form!
Look for a new ongoing Conan series from writer Fred Van Lente.
“The art is just gorgeous.” -- Adventures in Poor Taste
I think I remember this from the actual books. Without spoiling anything, doesn't Conan get a little help from the afterlife?
DARK HORSE PRESENTS #33
Writers: Christopher Sebela, Jamie S. Rich, Darrin Grimwood, Mike Baron, Phil Stanford, Fred Van Lente, Rich Johnston, Chad Lambert
Writing/Art: Brendan McCarthy, Dean Motter, Michael T. Gilbert
Art: Brian Churilla, Brent Schoonover, Steve Rude, Patric Reynolds, Reilly Brown, Simon Rohrmüller, Christine Larsen
Cover: Michael Schlicting
FC, 80 pages, $7.99
Ongoing
2013 Eisner & Harvey Award Winner: Best Anthology!
Christopher Sebela (Captain Marvel, Ghost) crafts a horror tale from World War II -- there’s blood in the water in Cruel Biology! And two misters return to the pages of DHP, as Dean Motter delivers a new noir tale starring Mister X and Michael T. Gilbert’s Mr. Monster faces off against a telepathic threat bent on world domination!
Plus, new installments of Nexus, Fred Van Lente’s Saint George, Kill Me, and more!
“As always, I can’t recommend Dark Horse Presents enough.” -- Unleash the Fanboy
“Seriously, this is comics’ best kept secret trove of great comics.” -- Comic Book Resources
SKYMAN #2 (of 4)
Writer: Joshua Hale Fialkov
Penciller: Manuel Garcia
Inking: Bit
Cover: Freddie Williams II and Dan Scott
FC, 32 pages, $2.99
Miniseries
THEY WANTED THE PERFECT WEAPON ... THEY GOT A HERO INSTEAD!
Still trying to overcome his fear of flying after a plane crash that nearly killed him, Sgt. Eric Reid doesn’t have time for PTSD as the new Skyman! The superhero’s life isn’t made any easier by the confrontations with his handler and the shocking number of bugs plaguing his suit. And matters are made even worse as he discovers someone’s trying to sabotage the suit and smear his good name!
• Ultimates writer Joshua Hale Fialkov pens an all-new superhero series!
• From the pages of Captain Midnight!
This doesn't look like a terribly original (or even interesting) concept, but I also give anything written by Fialkov a look.
STAR WARS: DARTH VADER AND THE CITY OF SHADOWS #3 (of 5)
Writer: Tim Siedell
Art: Gabriel Guzman
Colors: Michael Atiyeh
Cover: Felipe Massafera
FC, 32 pages, $3.50
Miniseries
Stormtrooper Hock is exactly where he wants to be -- under the command of the greatest warrior in the galaxy, Darth Vader! When a mission to assimilate some remnant Separatists becomes a military disaster, Hock has an opportunity to be something more than a soldier in the ranks to Darth Vader ... if he’s willing to take a life-risking chance!
Tim Siedell (@badbanana) has one of Time’s 140 Best Twitter Feeds!
“A fine example of what Vader can and should be all about.” -- Comic Book Resources
STAR WARS: DAWN OF THE JEDI -- FORCE WAR #4 (of 5)
Writer: John Ostrander
Penciller: Jan Duursema
Inker: Dan Parsons
Colors: Wes Dzioba
Cover: David Michael Beck
FC, 32 pages, $3.50
Miniseries
CAN LOVE OVERCOME THE POWER OF THE DARK SIDE?
Xesh and his Rakatan master are leading their ravening army to the temple of Anil Kesh and the chasm below -- hoping to find a gateway to the galaxy at the bottom! But Je’daii Shae Koda dogs Xesh’s steps, hoping to bring her lover back to the light side of the Force!
• The dark side invasion comes to a Je’daii temple!
• War comes to the Je’daii’s doorstep!
“Xesh is sure to become a fan favorite” -- Comic Book Resources
"Je'daii"? Looks like an archaic spelling of "Jedi," which makes me wonder if this story is set at the beginning of The Force business. Anyone know?
STRAIN THE FALL #8
Writer: David Lapham
Artist: Mike Huddleston
Colorist: Dan Jackson
Cover Artist: E. M. Gist
FC, 32 pages; Ongoing, $3.99
Trapped in a tunnel below the Hudson River, Dr. Ephraim Goodweather's son Zack and Dr. Nora Martinez fight for their lives against an onslaught of vampires commanded by Zack's mother! Meanwhile, though the Master's evil plan has almost sealed humanity's fate, his oldest enemy, Abraham Setrakian, may have discovered the key to victory.
* Soon to be a TV show on FX!
"A fun action horror comic." -- Geeks of Doom
If it isn't zombies, it's vampires. But as The Walking Dead has demonstrated to TV viewers -- and we comics fans knew already -- it's the execution that brings life to an old concept, or fails to do so. I'll probably pick up the first trade before the TV show bows to see if Lapham has breathed life into the undead.
TERMINATOR ENEMY OF MY ENEMY #1
Writer: Dan Jolley
Penciller: Jamal Igle
Inker: Ray Snyder
Cover: Jamal Igle
FC, 32 pages; Miniseries, $3.99
In 1984, Kyle Reese protected Sarah Connor from a cyborg that would stop at nothing to terminate her. In 1985, Skynet targets a scientist whose discoveries threaten its future, but this time there is no resistance fighter sent back to face it! With only enemies around her, what chance does Elise Fong stand against the perfect killing machine?
* Fan-favorite writer Dan Jolley (Bloodhound, Prototype 2)!
* Supergirl artist Jamal Igle !
Despite being the co-director of publicity at Action Lab, Igle still manages to find time to do work for both Dark Horse and DC. Good for him!
DC COMICS
ANIMAL MAN #28
Writer: JEFF LEMIRE
Art/Cover: RAFAEL ALBUQUERQUE
32 pg, FC, $2.99 U.S. • RATED T+
“Evolve or Die!” concludes as Animal Man marshals every last bit of power he has to protect his daughter from Brother Blood! But will it be enough to save Maxine and the Red -- or will Buddy lose another child?
I thought Brother Blood was kinda lame when he was introduced in New Teen Titans back in the late '80s, an over-the-top religious cult leader whose organization -- the "Church of Blood" -- must have the worst publicity department ever. Who joins a church with a name like that? You half-expect the parent organization to be "Murder Inc." And the overly purple dialogue that Marv Wolfman put in Blood's mouth served to cement my distaste.
But with the advent of "The Red" as a concept, the "blood" in Brother Blood's name takes on new and interesting possibilities, which Lemire seems to be gleefully exploring. If anything can make me like/fear/thrill to Brother Blood, this will be it!
BATMAN ‘66 #8
Writer: JEFF PARKER
Art: RUBEN PROCOPIO
Cover: MICHAEL ALLRED
40 pg, FC, $3.99 U.S. • RATED E • DIGITAL FIRST
From the sands of the ages and halls of higher learning comes one of Batman’s deadliest foes -- King Tut! Tut returns to Gotham City to assert his royal status and challenge the Dynamic Duo with his most far reaching plan yet to rule the modern Thebes known as Gotham City!
Ah, Victor Buono. You are missed.
BATMAN BEYOND UNIVERSE #7
Writers: KYLE HIGGINS, CHRISTOS N. GAGE
Art: THONY SILAS, IBAN COELLO
Cover: RAFAEL ALBUQUERQUE
48 pg, FC, $3.99 U.S. • RATED T • DIGITAL FIRST
Terry and Bruce are forced to work together to take down one of Batman’s oldest foes ... but will their strained relationship prevent them from completing their mission? Plus, after last issue’s stunning revelation about Brainiac’s plan, the Justice League enlists the help of new and old allies from all over the world!
BATMAN AND TWO-FACE #28
Writer: PETER J. TOMASI
Art/Cover: PATRICK GLEASON and MICK GRAY
1:25 Steampunk variant cover by MATTEO SCALERA
32 pg, FC, $2.99 U.S. • RATED T
This issue will ship with two covers.
“The Big Burn” concludes! In the final showdown, Batman, Two-Face and Erin McKillen fight for their lives against Gotham City’s united Mafiosi!
As I've noted somewhere, this book seems to have become an updated version of the old Batman team-up title The Brave and the Bold. The twist is that the stories follow a continuity as guest stars come and go -- something Chris Claremont and John Byrne once tried with Marvel Team-Up back in the day, before both left that title. I'm not surprised the concept isn't tried more often, because it's no doubt difficult to achieve without looking clumsy and forced. But if done well, it raises the team-up title to another level, so I applaud the effort -- and I read the book!
BATWOMAN #28
Writer: MARC ANDREYKO
Art: JEREMY HAUN
Cover: TREVOR McCARTHY
1:25 Steampunk variant cover by DAVE JOHNSON
32 pg, FC, $2.99 U.S. • RATED T+
This issue will ship with two covers.
As Batwoman reels from Maggie’s surprising revelation last issue, the two must work together to discover the secret of the Wolf Spider. Who hired him and what are his deadly plans for Gotham?
I'm interested to see if Batwoman will continue to hold my interest without the original creative team. It wasn't the character that interested me so much as the arty art and clever design/layout. Minus that, the character herself will have to become more interesting -- which falls on Andreyko. Good luck, pal!
BIRDS OF PREY #28
Writer: CHRISTY MARX
Art: ROMANO MOLENAAR and JONATHAN GLAPION
Cover: JORGE MOLINA
32 pg, FC, $2.99 U.S. • RATED T
Welcome to Gothtopia! Die happy! Black Canary confronts Ra’s al Ghul -- who makes her an offer that could save her husband! Is she willing to pay the ultimate price?
FABLES #138
Writer: BILL WILLINGHAM
Art: RUSS BRAUN
Cover: CHRISTOPHER MOELLER
32 pg, FC, $2.99 U.S. • MATURE READERS
Geppetto is up to his naughty tricks in a stand-alone story that fills in the gaps of an event that happened in Fabletown long ago. Snow White, Sir Woldred and Grandfather Oak guest-star in “Root and Branch,” illustrated by guest artist Russ Braun.
The ol' wood-carver is a nasty piece of work, isn't he? Hats off to Willingham for one of the most convincing baddies ever.
FBP: FEDERAL BUREAU OF PHYSICS VOL. 1: THE PARADIGM SHIFT (TPB)
Writer: SIMON OLIVER
Art: ROBBI RODRIGUEZ
Cover: NATHAN FOX
160 pg, FC, $9.99 U.S. • MATURE READERS
When gravity fails, time reverses itself and entropy sets in, it’s time to call the Federal Bureau of Physics! And with these anomalies getting worse, Special Agent Adam Hardy and his team must unlock the secret of the Bubbleverse! Collecting issues #1-7 of the new series!
I received a review copy of this last week, but haven't cracked the cover. That's a little embarrassing, sure, but it's also a review in itself that I always find something more interesting to read first.
Nevertheless, count on me to answer the call, and read/review the thing as soon as I can. I hope to be so entertained so much that I will regret having put it off!
A GOD SOMEWHERE (NEW PRINTING TPB)
Writer: JOHN ARCUDI
Art/Cover: PETER SNEJBJERG
200 pg, FC, $17.99 U.S. • MATURE READERS
The acclaimed original graphic novel is back in print! After a mysterious disaster, a young man named Eric finds that he has developed extraordinary abilities. He starts out trying to help people, but finds himself isolated him in ways no ordinary human could understand. This original graphic novel charts Eric’s evolution from man to ... something else, as seen through the eyes of his family and his best friend, Sam.
This is a well-crafted story about what would likely happen to someone granted Superman-level powers. And, yes, it's just as depressing as you'd imagine. People suck.
GREEN LANTERN: NEW GUARDIANS #28
Writer: JUSTIN JORDAN
Art/Cover: BRAD WALKER, DREW HENNESSY
1:25 Steampunk variant cover by KLAUS JANSON
32 pg, FC, $2.99 U.S. • RATED T
This issue will ship with two covers.
The fiery religion of the goddess X’Hal has brought peace to a star system that has only known conflict! Could this be the galactic paradise that Kyle Rayner and the New Guardians have been searching for? If it is, it won’t last long -- because the mysterious beings known as The God-Killers have X’Hal -- and Kyle -- in their sights!
As a White Lantern, Kyle is practically a god himself! I suppose they're playing down his resurrection abilities, though.
GREEN LANTERN: WRATH OF THE FIRST LANTERN (HC)
Writers: GEOFF JOHNS, PETER J. TOMASI, PETER MILLIGAN, TONY BEDARD
Art: DOUG MAHNKE, DAN JURGENS, PHIL JIMENEZ, SZYMON KUDRANSKI, ARDIAN SYAF, FERNANDO PASARIN, CHRISCROSS, AARON KUDER, HENDRY PRASETYO, JIM CALAFIORE, JAVIER PULIDO, MIGUEL SEPULVEDA, WILL CONRAD and others
Cover: GARY FRANK
416 pg, FC, $29.99 U.S.
The Wrath of the First Lantern is here as the Green Lanterns battle the Guardians of Oa and the Third Army -- but who will win, and at what cost? And as the First Lantern moves on the brightest of the Corps for his reality altering experiments, we learn the shocking fate of Hal and Sinestro in this must-read crossover event! This new hardcover collects GREEN LANTERN #17-20, GREEN LANTERN CORPS #17-20, RED LANTERNS #17-20 and GREEN LANTERN: NEW GUARDIANS #17-20.
I did start reading a review copy of this book -- I'm about halfway through -- and as I remembered from the monthly issues, I find the "First Lantern" a little boring. But one nice thing about Marvel and DC putting "events' like this together in a single collection means you get the whole story regardless of title, so you can see the big picture a bit better. And in this case, I see that one outcome of this story -- and perhaps its raison d'etre -- is to explore the personalities of the Earth Lanterns, in order to distinguish them from each other. That's something I didn't get when I read only half the titles in the crossover. And in that it's successful.
HARLEY QUINN #3
Writer: AMANDA CONNER, JIMMY PALMIOTTI
Art: CHAD HARDIN
Cover by AMANDA CONNER and DAVE JOHNSON
32 pg, FC, $2.99 U.S. • RATED T
It’s Valentine’s Day, and Harley is getting depressed watching happy couples walk by. Will a special gift from Poison Ivy turn things around for Harley?
I'm leery to try this title, as I dislike The New 52 Harley Quinn on display over in Suicide Squad. But if the Conner/Palmiotti is more like the version I enjoyed in The Old 52 -- and Conner and Palmiotti rarely disappoint -- I might pick it up. Recommendations, Legionnaires?
HE-MAN AND THE MASTERS OF THE UNIVERSE #10
Writer: DAN ABNETT
Art: MICHAEL O’HARE
Cover: POP MHAN
32 pg, FC, $2.99 U.S.
Randor’s desperate quest to bring back The Sorceress continues. Deep within Subternia, the Masters of the Universe face unimaginable horrors. The harrowing nightmares of the Ring of Dreams threaten to overwhelm He-Man and Randor. Meanwhile, on the Ring of Earth, Moss Man is dying. The final gamble of the King may prove to be fatal.
I seem to be the last person in the universe to find out that Dan Abnett and Andy Lanning -- who have written a zillion comics together, and were often referred to as "DnA" -- have had an acrimonious falling-out and no longer work together. In case I'm only the penultimate person to learn this, I'm passing it on to whoever its reading this that is the last person to learn this!
JUSTICE LEAGUE #28
Writer: GEOFF JOHNS
Art/Cover: IVAN REIS and JOE PRADO
1:25 Steampunk variant cover by DAN PANOSIAN
32 pg, FC, $3.99 US • RATED T
Combo pack edition: $4.99 U.S.
This issue will ship with three covers.
“FOREVER EVIL” continues! With the Justice League gone, new heroes continue to rise up throughout the DC Universe! The Crime Syndicate tried to kill him, but now Cyborg is back to settle the score -- and with him are The Metal Men!
This issue is also offered as a combo pack edition with a redemption code for a digital download of this issue.
I admit to being curious about how The New 52 Metal Men will be presented. How will DC make this silly/archaic concept relevant for the grim 21st century DCU? I don't really have high hopes, but I'm rooting for it to work.
MARTIAN MANHUNTER: SON OF MARS (TPB)
Writer: JOHN OSTRANDER and JOHN ARCUDI
Art: TOM MANDRAKE and JAN DUURSEMA
Cover: TOM MANDRAKE
240 pg, FC, $19.99 U.S.
These tales from MARTIAN MANHUNTER #0-9 begin as the Manhunter tells Superman how he came to Earth. In his guise as Detective John Jones, he tracks a serial killer and investigates a mystery at Cadmus Laboratories, then saves the Justice League from the threat of Malefic.
It occurred to me the other day that TPBs like this must look to young readers of today what 80-Page Giants of Superman and Batman looked like to my generation. Back during the "New Look" Batman era of the 1960s, I'd pick up an 80-Page Giant Batman with stories from the 1950s and think, "Oh, this is what Batman used to be like." Because, you know, the silly Batman of the '50s bore little resemblance to the sleek, grounded Batman of the "New Look" -- they were practically different characters.
And I also remember it didn't bother me. So I guess when today's readers pick up something like this they think, "Oh, this is what Martian Manhunter used to be like." You know, back in the Stone Age. :)
RED HOOD AND THE OUTLAWS #28
Writer: JAMES TYNION IV
Art/Cover: STEPHEN SEGOVIA
32 pg, FC, $2.99 U.S. • RATED T
The Outlaws head off for a well-earned rest as Jason tries to rekindle his romance with Isabelle -- but they are soon fighting for their lives against a new cartel!
SCRIBBLENAUTS UNMASKED: A CRISIS OF IMAGINATION #2
Writer: JOSH ELDER
Art: ADAM ARCHER, BEN BATES
Cover by ADAM ARCHER
32 pg, FC, $2.99 U.S. • RATED E • DIGITAL FIRST
Maxwell and Lily travel to Metropolis, where they find a mob of Superman protesters led by -- Lois Lane and Jimmy Olsen?! The Man of Steel has no idea why they have turned against him, so it’s up to the Scribblenauts and the Justice League to solve this puzzle!
This is another book like Li'l Gotham that both children and adults can enjoy. It's pretty good, but I prefer Dusting Nguyen's "kiddie" art style more than this one. (And I prefer both to LEGO versions.)
SUPERGIRL #28
Writer: TONY BEDARD
Art: YILDIRAY CINAR and RAY McCARTHY
Cover: GIUSEPPE CAMUNCOLI and CAM SMITH
32 pg, FC, $2.99 U.S. • RATED T
A RED LANTERN RING is coming to get Kara -- and it will change her forever! No lie! Not an imaginary story! It’s really going to happen! “Red Daughter of Krypton” starts here!
Man, first she was a brat, then she was a mark for a cosmic con man, and all along she's been kind of a jerk. Now she's gonna be a Red Lantern. Is DC trying to make Kara Zor-El as unlikeable as possible?
TEEN TITANS GO! #2
Writer: SHOLLY FISCH, MERRILL HAGEN
Art: LEA HERNANDEZ, JORGE CORONA
Cover: DAN HIPP
32 pg, FC, $2.99 U.S. • RATED E
When Starfire signs the team up for the popular reality show contest, I’ve Got Your Talent Right Here, Robin becomes determined to show the world just how talented the Teen Titans really are! Then, after a fight with Captain Cold, Beast Boy and Robin come down with a cold themselves! Running high fevers and quarantined from the rest of the Titans ... the madness begins to set in!
TRINITY OF SIN: PANDORA #8
Writer: RAY FAWKES
Art: FRANCIS PORTELA
Cover: JULIAN TOTINO TEDESCO
32 pg, FC, $2.99 U.S. • RATED T
“FOREVER EVIL: BLIGHT” continues! Pandora and The Justice League Dark race to save the world’s mystics from The Crime Syndicate! Continues in this month’s JUSTICE LEAGUE DARK #28!
With the destruction of the Pandora's Box -- and the revelation of its origin -- does Pandora have any reason to stick around? Let's hope Fawkes can give her a reason to exist (and for me to care).
THE UNWRITTEN VOL. 2: APOCALYPSE #2
Writer: MIKE CAREY
Art: PETER GROSS
Cover: YUKO SHIMIZU
32 pg, FC, $3.99 U.S. • MATURE READERS
In the ruins of a post-literary world, Richie and Lizzie go in search of their lost friend Tom Taylor. But to find him, they’ll have to venture into the most dangerous place on Earth: London.
As I've written somewhere before, it felt to me like this series ended with Unwritten #50. But evidently this maxiseries will run 12 issues and really end the series. which feels kinda anti-climactic. But I'm sticking with it!
WE3 (NEW EDITION TPB)
Writer: GRANT MORRISON
Art/Cover: FRANK QUITELY
144 pg, FC, $14.99 U.S. • MATURE READERS
Relive the harrowing journey of three house pets weaponized by the government for lethal combat as they search for home and fend off the shadowy agency that created them! This new trade paperback collects the original 3-issue miniseries plus the new pages created for the Deluxe Edition hardcover.
I remember enjoying this story when I first read it, when it came out in 2004. And I remember the concept -- cyborg animals that escape a research lab -- but I don't remember much else. I'm curious to see if I'll enjoy it as much now, with 10 more years under my belt.
WONDER WOMAN #28
Writer: BRIAN AZZARELLO
Art/Cover: CLIFF CHIANG
1:25 Steampunk variant cover by J.G. JONES
32 pg, FC, $2.99 U.S. • RATED T
This issue will ship with two covers.
The last time the First Born came for Olympus, it took the death of the God of War to stop him. And if Wonder Woman is now the God of War…and if the First Born is more determined than ever to claim his birthright…then things are about to get VERY violent indeed!
Yay, Chiang's back on the interiors! I know this title has been somewhat controversial on this site (and elsewhere, I'm sure), but I love Azzarello's upgrade of the Amazing Amazon -- she's a demigod now, as she deserves to be -- but part of my enthusiasm was rooted in Chiang's strong, uncomplicated, retro art. Note, for example, that Wonder Woman on this cover is not exceptionally busty or otherwise cheesecake-y -- and yet, she's incredibly attractive: Clean-limbed, athletic, lithe. Again, as she should be. Plus, his visual concepts for the Greco-Roman gods are really ingenious.
I don't mean to dredge up old arguments, but Chiang's been absent on the interiors for a while, and I was afraid he was gone for good. But he's back, and I couldn't control my enthusiasm.DYNAMIC FORCES
ASH AND THE ARMY OF DARKNESS #4
Writer: Steve Niles
Art: Dennis Calero
Cover: Arthur Suydam
Variant Cover: Dennis Calero
Teen + / 32 pages / $3.99
The Army of Darkness grows as Wiseman's legion of Deadites ransack town after town, burning building and stealing souls. Ash and the Mask Fighter are on the run and find themselves trapped in the Dark Wood where an old enemy waits for Ash.BAD ASS #2 (OF 4)
Writer: Herik Hanna
Art: Bruno Bessadi
Cover: Bruno Bessadi
Mature / 32 pages / $3.99
With the Green Dragon and his nefarious den of gangsters felled, Dead End is forced to face the music ... of Amadeus Kitty. Just when he thinks he's in the clear with the cash, Dead End is sucked back into yet another fight of epic proportions. Backed into a corner -- not just by Amadeus Kitty, but by the entire city's police force as well -- Dead End takes a moment to assess the situation, light up a cigarette, and kick some ass.
I confess I haven't read this book. But I have to admit that "Amadeus Kitty" is an awesome name.
BATTLESTAR GALACTICA: STARBUCK #4 (OF 4)
Writer: Tony Lee
Art: Eman Casallos
Cover: Sean Chen
Teen + / 32 pages / $3.99
FINAL ISSUE!!! The origin of Lt. Starbuck concludes, told by #1 New York Times best-selling author Tony Lee! On an ice world in the middle of Cylon space, Starbuck and Apollo race to free Athena before Osiris can use her in his vendetta against Adama - but are they too late to save the colonies from Cylon invasion?
KING'S WATCH #4
Writer: Jeff Parker
Art: Marc Laming
Covers: Marc Laming
Teen + / 32 pages / $3.99
THE COBRA has engineered the most devastating event to hit planet Earth in millennia! The world is under siege from the forces of a nightmare land, and only FLASH GORDON, MANDRAKE THE MAGICIAN and THE PHANTOM know how to battle the hordes of Mongo! But they're spread thin and time isn't on their side...even Cobra doesn't realize what he's unleashed and now faces a life of servitude...to MING THE MERCILESS!
Why is The Phantom beaten to pieces? He's far and away the best hand-to-hand combatant in this trio.
RED SONJA #7
Writer: Gail Simone
Art: Walter Geovani
Cover: Jenny Frison
Variant Cover: Amy Reeder
Subscription Variant Cover: Stephanie Buscema
Teen + / 32 pages / $3.99
Part 1 of a new story arc! Fresh from her ordeals in the Queen of the Plague epic, Sonja is charged with the task of playing bodyguard to Hyborea's greatest chef, even though seemingly everyone wants him dead! Join us for this unique issue of recipes, culinary technique, and decapitation!
Replies
RED SONJA VOL. 1: QUEEN OF PLAGUES (TPB)
Art: Walter Geovani
Cover: Jenny Frison
Teen + / 184 pages / $19.99
Gail Simone (Batgirl, Birds of Prey) gives the iconic fantasy heroine a fresh new attitude! Red Sonja, the She-Devil with a Sword, intends to pay back a blood debt owed to the one man who has gained her respect ... even if it means leading a doomed army to their certain deaths!
Who is Dark Annisia, and how has this fearsome warrior accomplished what no god nor demon has been able to do: force Sonja to her knees in surrender? An epic tale of blood, lust, and vengeance, Queen of the Plagues takes Red Sonja from the depths of her own grave to the heights of battlefield glory. Featuring Gail Simone's Red Sonja #1 script!
I'm not one of the biggest Red Sonja fans in the world. But I am one of the biggest Gail Simone fans in the world, so this is already on order!
Artists: Bill Sienkiewicz
Cover: Bill Sienkiewicz
Mature / 144+ pages / $24.99
Featuring Andy Helfer and Bill Sienkiewicz's classic Shadow series from 1987! Following Howard Chaykin's classic mini-series Blood & Judgement, Helfer and Sienkiewicz story stands on its own as one of the most surreal Shadow tales of all time! Contains issues #1-6 of this definitive Shadow story!
I hope the original knew how to spell judgment better than this solicitation does. (Yes, it's a pet peeve.)
Artist: Debora Carita
Covers: Jay Anacleto (50%), Fabiano Neves (50%)
Mature / 32 pages / $3.99
Dejah tries to save the young girl that has been placed in her care while a relentless assassin tries to kill them both. The race for survival takes them into the heart of one of the darkest regions of Barsoom where they face a horde of hostile creatures!
BEN 10 #4
Artist: Gordon Purcell
Cover: Eddie Nunez
“Key animation art” variant cover from the Ben 10 cartoon
32 pages • $3.99
This is it! The battle for control of the ocean and the safety of the undersea kingdom of TerraPisciss has arrived! All the forces of men and mer-people are under the command of Ben Tennyson, but the forces of Ssserpent stretch from the frosty Arctic Sea to the middle of the Pacific … who will be victorious? Check out the stunning conclusion!
Artist: Paul Lee, Michael Gaydos, Jamie Tolagson
Cover: Kyle Hotz
TPB • FC • $19.99 • 144 pages
Eric Draven continues to seek vengeance and justice as the Crow in volume 6 of Midnight Legends. Collecting issues #5-10 of the Image Comics series, including the stories "In The Skin Of An Angel," "Touch Of Evil," and "Ashes To Ashes."
Artist: Herb Trimpe, Earl Norem, George Freeman
Cover: Earl Norem
TPB • FC • $19.99 • 136 pages
They're BACK! 25 years after Topps' original "DINOSAURS ATTACKS!" trading cards took a bite out of candy counter sales, the original Eclipse graphic novel written by creator Gary Gerani returns, this time released in its entirety with pencils by Herb Trimpe and paintings by veteran illustrator Earl Norem.
• “The overall enjoyment of reading this comic resembles the nostalgia one would feel opening up an old pulp novel or science fiction terror comic.” -- Comic Bastards
This looks like a lot of fun, and gives me the opportunity to say something I'm not likely to say again, which is: "I'm excited by the presence of Herb Trimpe." I strongly disliked Trimpe's Incredible Hulk -- only the occasional inks of John or Marie Severin made it tolerable to me -- but I loved his Godzilla, which had just the right mixture of drama and cheese. Since this is in the same ballpark as Marvel's Godzilla, I expect I'll enjoy it.
Art/Covber: S L Gallant
Variant Cover by Larry Hama!
32 pages • $3.99
THE ULTIMATE SHOWDOWN! G.I. JOE has escaped the situation in Sierra Gordo intact… but COBRA has taken over their headquarters! That means only one thing: it’s time for a head-to-head confrontation between America’s best and the villainous COBRA COMMANDER’s forces. Join the battle in G.I. Joe: A Real American Hero #199 and prepare for everything to change in next month’s landmark issue #200!
ONLY 1 ISSUE LEFT UNTIL G.I. JOE: A REAL AMERICAN HERO #200!
That last line really is remarkable.
Artist: Paul Gulacy
Cover: Gulacy, Will Rosado
Variant Cover by S L Gallant!
32 pages • $3.99
DESTRO MUST DIE part three! It's a three-way showdown between the JOEs, COPPERBACK and a mysterious Mark II B.A.T. in an abandoned town from the old Soviet Union. And HELIX is here to tip the balance. The search for DESTRO continues and the noose around the villainous highlander begins to tighten!
Chuck Dixon and Paul Gulacy bring back a fan-favorite character!
If you just read the credits, you might think this is a top-tier Marvel book from the 1980s. That alone recommends it.
Art/Cover: Jeff Zornow
Variant Cover: Matt Frank
32 pages • $3.99
Before Godzilla was king, there was another! King Caesar makes his comic book debut in a tale set thousands of years in Earth's past, in a battle that sets the stage for today's world of monsters.
The fan-favorite series extended for another round of monster madness!
Wait, weren't we just talking about Godzilla? Well, here is the gorilla-whale again, hopefully in the same fine form he was in Marvel's Godzilla so long ago. (Minus Dum-Dum Dugan, of course, but you can't have everything.)
Art: Andrew Currie
Cover: Photo
$3.99
The grand finale of Jericho Season Four changes everything!
Everything hangs in the balance as Jake Green and Robert Hawkins are faced with a terrible choice, one that could change everything for the residents of Jericho... and the Allied States of America! Don't miss the stunning conclusion of Jericho, brought to you by the writing staff of the acclaimed series!
This has been long delayed.
THE X-FILES CONSPIRACY: TMNT
Art: Michael Walsh
Variant Cover: Joe Corroney
Variant Cover: Michael Walsh
32 pages • $3.99
The X-Files meets the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles!
The Turtles are doing their best to avoid trouble in Northampton. Unfortunately, trouble finds them in the form of the Lone Gunmen! The fate of the world depends on the Gunmen getting the reclusive Turtles’ help. Add in an undead menace and things are going to get downright dangerous!
Here's the X-Files/TMNT crossover that was supposed to come out last week, but was bumped at the last minute. The other crossover, X-Files/Transformers, is scheduled to launch next week. For now.
IMAGE COMICS
With the new year, Image Comics has been shipping its previews for each Wednesday's books the Friday before, which allows me the opportunity to present them with the Guide -- which is awesome. (Previously, the publisher released the previews on the Tuesday before, and often I'd have to stick them in the Comments section, or blow them off entirely.) There are never previews for collections or second printings, but there are generally 3-7 pages with each monthly book. (Or whatever passes for "monthly" at Image.) So it's a lot, and I am tickled pink to serve them up piping hot for Comics Guide readers every week, to compete with multiple previews for Marvel, Archie and others. Keep it up, anonymous PR person -- you're doing it right!
ALEX + ADA #4
Art/Cover: JONATHAN LUNA
32 PAGES / FC / T+ / $2.99
Alex makes a decision that will change Ada forever.
I generally like Luna's work, but I can't escape the feeling that there's really only one way this story can go, and that's a story we've read a million times, from "Pinocchio" to Star Trek's Data to The Vision to Red Tornado to Aphrodite IX to The Little Mermaid to any other story where something close to human tries to become human to find love and/or become master of its own fate.
Sure, there are other ways to go with this set-up. But none of them would be very interesting. (Who cares what happens to, essentially, a machine? It must become human, or human-ish, for us to relate.) OTOH, the way it's likely to go is, well, cliche. But, again, I like Luna's work generally so maybe I'll be captured by the execution.
GHOSTED #7
Art: DAVIDE GIANFELICE, MIROSLAV MRVA
Cover: MATTEO SCALERA
32 PAGES / FC / M / $2.99
Organ thieves, slave traffickers: Jackson Winters will have to do business with all the wrong people to find his lost girl. Unfortunately, ghosts of the very recent past will be dogging his every step ...
Art/Cover DEAN KOTZ
32 PAGES / FC / T+ / $2.99
Hunting through the desert for an unmarked grave, the Krampus is stalked by a notorious historical figure, reborn into the world of Sugar Plum Fairies and flying reindeer.
For some reason, three of the preview pages for this title downloaded as empty files (0 kb). The three remaining ones may not make much sense as a result, but at least you can adjudge the artwork.
Art: JOE EISMA
Cover: RODIN ESQUEJO
32 PAGES / FC / M / $3.50
"Say a prayer."
Pithy.
Art/Cover: TYLER JENKINS
32 PAGES / FC / T / $3.50
“THE HUNT” Part Two
Lily continues the hunt, honoring her father’s memory ... one kill at a time.
The fourth story arc of the hit critically acclaimed series continues.
Is Tyler Jenkins new on this title? The art looks better than I remember from the first arc.
Art: GORDON PURCELL, MICHAEL ATIYEH
Cover A: GORDON PURCELL, MICHAEL ATIYEH
Cover B: GIUSEPPE CAFARO, MICHAEL ATIYEH
32 PAGES / FC / M / $2.99
Detective Riley's investigation into the murder of the Huntsman brings him into the very heart of Protectors, Inc., where he meets the woman of his dreams -- assuming she's not actually a killer -- and the other members of the Chicago Protectors. One of them killed the Huntsman ... and may be after Riley next.
I swear, at first glance I thought "Why is Yellowjacket moonlighting in this Image series?" I guess there are only so many superhero-costume variations to be had.
My second thought, after looking at the previews, was "Gordon Purcell sure likes drawing this platinum blonde woman's face." If you'll note, there's a close-up of her face at the bottom of five of the six pages, sometimes taking up a third of the page's real estate. It's so consistent I wonder if that isn't part of the story. Anyway, I don't mind, because it's an attractive face, plus Purcell's art has a Jerry Ordway vibe, and I love Jerry Ordway's work.
Art: MIKE NORTON, MARK ENGLERT, ART BALTAZAR
Cover: MIKE NORTON, JENNY FRISON
128 PAGES / FC / M / $14.99
Collects REVIVAL #12-17
For one day in rural central Wisconsin, the dead came back to life. Now the living and the recently returned struggle to maintain a sense of normalcy amidst political and religious conflicts. Officer Dana Cypress is hot on the trail of a man she believes may have murdered her sister Em, but Em herself is on a quest through the snowy woods to find the strange glowing creature that haunts a child.
32 PAGES / FC / T+ / $3.99
A NEW BEGINNING!
It’s the ultimate jumping on point for new readers and a bold new beginning as Malcolm Dragon takes over the title role from his famous father.
Malcolm Dragon is not your typical teenager. He lives in an apartment by himself in downtown Chicago, he's a junior who's just transferred to a new high school, and he's trying his best to fill the shoes of his father, the Savage Dragon, fighting the forces of evil in the Windy City! New dangers! New adventures!
Get in on the ground level of a whole new SAVAGE DRAGON!
This was originally solicited for Oct. 23. Four months ago!
Art/Cover: CHIP ZDARSKY
32 PAGES / FC / M / $3.50
She can seemingly control time and space with her ... parts. She's as relentless a manhunter as law enforcement ever created. And by day she's no one you'd particularly notice, with her quiet suburban life and pleasant-enough job, but when the temporal dimension is used to break society's laws they call...HER. Jon and Suzie get in too deep way too fast as one little sexy fun party crime begets another and the villains of the piece descend. Turns out Jon and Suzie aren't the only ones after all ...
For the second printing cover of issue four, Zdarsky focused on Jon after his encounter with the Sex Police, fresh from being attacked with a, uh ... with ... uh ... fresh from being attacked.
Time magazine dubbed SEX CRIMINALS the #1 comic series of the year in 2013, Multiversity Comics named it Best New Series of 2013, ComicsAlliance recognized Chip Zdarsky as one of the Best Artists of 2013 and writer/actor Wil Wheaton calls it “one of the best things I’ve ever read, period.”
Art: ANGEL MEDINA & DANNY MIKI
Cover: CLAYTON CRAIN
160 PAGES / FC / T+ / $14.99
Collects SPAWN #117-122
SPAWN ORIGINS, VOL. 20 features the stories and artwork that helped cement the Spawn legacy. Relive the excitement of this groundbreaking series in this accessibly priced format with exclusive bonus content, including cover galleries, black and white art, classic quotes from TODD McFARLANE, and an exclusive digitally painted cover by CLAYTON CRAIN.
32 PAGES / BW / M / $3.99
“KILLING GAME,” Part Two
When serial killers rub elbows with sorority girls at frat parties, will Zoey come to the conclusion that some people need to be killed?
Written and drawn -- by mouth -- by disabled creator Larime Taylor.
Art: MICHAEL WALSH, TRADD MOORE, MATEUS SANTOLOUCO, MORGAN JESKE, WILL TEMPEST
172 PAGES / FC / M / $9.99
Collects ZERO #1-5
Edward Zero is the perfect execution machine -- a spy who breaks the rules to get things done, fighting terrorism all over the world. Zero was the best spy the Agency had -- until he realized he was working for the wrong side.
With art by Michael Walsh, Tradd Moore, Mateus Santolouco, Morgan Jeske, Will Tempest and Jordie Bellaire, ZERO’s art is as varied and provocative as its pulse-pounding storyline.
Ales Kot’s (CHANGE, Secret Avengers) gripping spy thriller ZERO: AN EMERGENCY, VOL. 1 is the inaugural collection of the hit ongoing series.
Professional praise for ZERO:
“This is Zero, and it’s where all the action is. Have a seat.” -- Jonathan Hickman (THE MANHATTAN PROJECTS, EAST OF WEST)
“With Zero, Kot continues to push boundaries of both form and content to stunning and inspiring effect. A new kind of spy thriller written with scope, intelligence and flat out gripping storytelling, Zero is easily one of my favorite reads of the year.” -- Scott Snyder (SEVERED, Batman)
Critical acclaim for ZERO:
“If you're looking for a different type of comic with a great story, art and colors plus loads of action and intrigue, this is the one for you.” -- Tony Guerrero, Comic Vine
"Zero is going to be worth keeping an eye on.” -- James Hunt, Comic Book Resources
“Zero has become one of the finest specimens that the comic book medium has to offer.” -- David Henderson, Multiversity Comics
“The ending hits you like a silenced 9mm handgun. Definitely a striking read.” -- David Pepose, Newsarama
MARVEL COMICS
A+X #17
Art by DAVID YARDIN & GORAN PARLOV
Cover by GORAN PARLOV
32 PGS./Rated T/$3.99
• SPIDER-MAN + PSYLOCKE= a heart-breaking story from their past!
• Part 5 of the CAPTAIN AMERICA + CYCLOPS story by Gerry Duggan (DEADPOOL) and David Yardin (X-FACTOR)
I never know what to make of Psylocke. Is she supposed to be this ultra-glam type that all men fall in love with? Or is she a super-badass that we're all supposed to fear and respect? Or is she a tender-hearted girl who loves her man (like Angel in X-Force) with all her heart? Or what? Every time I read a story with her in it, she's played differently.
Her back-story is no help, because it's incredibly jumbled and complicated, even for a Marvel mutant. So what's the dillio, X-fans? I seem to have missed the big picture when it comes to this character.
Art: MICHAEL ALLRED, LEE GARBETT, STEVE PUGH, PHIL NOTO, ADRIAN ALPHONA, and RAGS MORALES
Cover: SALVADOR LAROCCA
48 PGS./Rated T/$5.99
“Reaffirms Marvel’s label as the House of Ideas” -- WhatCulture, on ALL-NEW MARVEL NOW! POINT ONE
I just want to note for the record that I'm suspicious of all of these second printings from Marvel all of a sudden. Because it IS all of a sudden -- check back in previous Comics Guides, and although Marvel #1 issues sell really well, Marvel rarely has to go back for a second printing, because it usually prints enough of the first issue to anticipate demand.
But here we are, with FOUR second printings this week, and a raft of them coming in the next couple of weeks as well. My guess is that Marvel was tired of all the second printings -- and attendant press -- Image and Archie were getting with all of their sell-outs (which are probably genuine), and decided to jump on the bandwagon. Even without Martin Goodman, Marvel still never passes up the chance to jump on a trend.
Further, I bet we see couple of DC second printings soon, too. They also never needed them before, but I'm guessing we get a few soon.
Art: CARMINE DI GIANDOMENICO
Cover: JARED FLETCHER
32 PGS./Rated T/$3.99
“I cannot wait to see more from this book.” -- Comic Vine, on ALL-NEW X-FACTOR #1
Art/Cove: ED MCGUINNESS
32 PGS./Rated T+/$3.99
• Wolverine and Northstar are defeated and stranded in … Purgatory?
• Nightcrawler tries to rally the X-Men to help them and save the after-life from Azazel, but they are outgunned by the demon lord and his hordes!
That's a pretty awesome cover. Very Shining-like.
Art: STEFANO CASELLI
Cover: JOHN CASSADAY
32 PGS./Rated T/$3.99
“Hickman and Spencer do more with one issue than most can do in an entire run.” -- Crave Online, on AVENGERS WORLD #1
Art: STEFANO CASELLI
Cover by RAGS MORALES
Variant Cover: AGUSTIN ALESSIO
32 PGS./Rated T/$3.99
• Shang-Chi vs. The Gorgon -- a fight to the death for control of The Hand.
• 20 straight pages of bone-crushing martial arts action, like you’ve never seen it before.
Marvel is pleased to present your first look at AVENGERS WORLD #3 -- the next blockbuster issue from critically acclaimed creators Jonathan Hickman, Nick Spencer, and Stefano Caselli! Spread thin across the globe, squads of Avengers fight for their lives on multiple deadly fronts. A.I.M. has made their move – and they’ve declared Earth an Avengers World no longer! But not if Shang-Chi has anything to say about it! The Hand has woken the beast of legend. Out of the Earth rises a great dragon -- with the city of Madripoor atop its head! Deep in the heart of the city, Shang-Chi faces down The Gorgon -- ruthless leader of the shadowy ninja clan. Winner takes control of The Hand -- and gets to keep their life! Don’t miss a minute of the bone-crunching martial arts action this February! The fight to the death begins in AVENGERS WORLD #3!
Shang-Chi seems more of a S.H.I.E.L.D. or Secret Avengers character to me, but if the explosion of Avengers titles gives him an occasional spotlight, I'll accept him as an Avenger.
Art/Cover: PHIL NOTO
32 PGS./Rated T/$3.99
“Do yourself a favor and try this one out as fast as you can.” -- Comicosity, on BLACK WIDOW #1
Evidently, my relentless championing of this title has borne fruit! Heute Black Widow, morgen der Welt! NYAH-hahahahahaha!
Or it could be that Nathan Edmondson and Phil Noto are knocking it out of the park. This book is getting almost embarassingly enthusiastic reviews.
Art/Cover: NIC KLEIN
32 PGS./Rated T/$3.99
“DR. MINDBUBBLE” PART 1
• The Weapon Minus program reopened! Now that it is, can Captain America put Dr. Mindbubble back inside?
• The Iron Nail begins assassinating the heads of the five largest corporations.
• With Captain America unhinged, Falcon and Jet Black are forced to make a terrible choice!
Is it a spoiler to discuss the ending of Captain America #10, seven issues ago? Well, if so, SPOILER WARNING, because I'm about to complain about it.
I've never written Captain America, obviously, so I don't know what the internal story stresses and strains are. But is there some internal logic or pressure to write Sharon Carter out of the strip? Because that's how Captain America's adventure in Dimension Z ended, with Carter missing and presumed dead. Again! How many times has that happened? Even for comics, Sharon Carter gets killed a lot. And we know she'll be back, so what's the point?
Is it to keep Cap single, so he can have romantic encounters? If so, that's stupid, because he doesn't have romantic encounters. Most writers write Steve Rogers as if sex was unknown in the 1940s, or that he is reluctant to share his precious bodily fluids without a marriage certificate. Newsflash, Cap writers: Sex wasn't invented in the 1960s. And for a guy without obvious religious affiliation, Steve Rogers would be as interested in sex as any red-blooded American male -- maybe moreso, given his superhuman, um, endurance. Sure, he'd be a really good guy about it -- Cap is the ultimate "really good guy" -- but he wouldn't be a eunuch. He'd feel sexual attraction, sure, but heroically deal with it, much better than we lame-o readers do. And we slack-jawed fanboys would learn how to be a mensch in the process.
But OK, writers like to keep Cap virginal. So why write out his girlfriend? It's really his only avenue for romantic storylines. Bah!
Is Carter constantly written out because she's so efficient that writers are afraid she'll make Cap look lesser in comparison? Dudes, that's flat out misogyny. Let the girl be ultra-competent. It's who she is. And it doesn't make Cap look bad. In fact, it makes him look awesomely self-confident.
Is Carter constantly written out to give Cap some pathos? Sorry, we all got a bellyful of that when Bucky was dead. If I ever see Cap wring his hands over a dead companion for umpty-ump issues again, I will stop reading the book. Enough. Cap's a super-soldier, and soldiers know that people die in combat. He'll respect the memory of a fallen comrade, but Cap doesn't do whiny -- or, at least, he shouldn't.
What other reasons could there be? I can't think of any. And it's not like Cap has so many supporting characters you can spare a few. There's Falcon, and uh ... OK, there's Falcon.
So come on, Marvel! Stop killing off Sharon Carter! It's boring. But moreover, she's a vital part of the strip, and Captain America is a less interesting book without her.
Art: JOHN BYRNE, GENE COLAN, LEE ELIAS, MIKE ZECK & ALAN KUPPERBERG
Cover: JOHN BYRNE
496 PGS./Rated T/$34.99
Volume 9 in the Captain America Epic Collection.
Even for Captain America, life has rarely been this eventful! Battling the robotic Dragon Man above New York, considering a run for president, and saving Manhattan from fiery destruction at the hands of Batroc and Mr. Hyde is all in a day’s work. And a trip to England proves to be no vacation, either, as Cap encounters the vampire Baron Blood and the chilling Ghost of Greymoor Castle! Back home in the States, our hero learns Hollywood plans to make a Captain America movie -- the only problem is, his greatest foe, the Red Skull, has a very different script in mind! Finally, Cap must prevent Morgan MacNeil Hardy from rewriting the American dream -- but can even Spider-Man help him stop the cyborg SULTAN from destroying Washington, D.C.? Collecting CAPTAIN AMERICA (1968) #247-266 and ANNUAL #5.
Art/Cover: CHRIS SAMNEE
32 PGS./Rated T+/$2.99
The Astounding Final Issue!
Matt Murdock’s life comes crashing down in DAREDEVIL #36 – the fearless final issue from critically acclaimed storytellers Mark Waid & Chris Samnee!
After the shocking events of last issue, there’s nowhere left for Matt to run. The Man Without Fear stands alone against the villainous hate group known as Sons of the Serpent. And their climactic clash is about to take place on a different kind of battlefield – in a New York City courtroom! But how much is he willing to sacrifice in the name of victory? It’s time for the Man Without Fear to show how fearless he really is. And the truth may shock you!
It’s all been leading to this – and the seeds sown here bear bitter fruit for Daredevil in 2014! You don’t need a radar sense to know this one will be big! Don’t miss the epic finale in DAREDEVIL #36!
I'm several months behind on Daredevil, but my guess is that they're really going to kill off Foggy Nelson (for now), and a heartbroken Matt will move to San Francisco (again) because ... well, why not? Except for that "guardian of Hell's Kitchen" conceptual thing. Well, I'm sure Waid will make it work, because he's just that good.
Art: DALIBOR TALAJIC
Cover: MICHAEL DEL MUNDO
Variant Cover: Mike Perkins
32 PGS./Parental Advisory/$3.99
DEXTER RETURNS IN AN ALL-NEW, ALL-AUSTRALIAN
ADVENTURE WRITTEN BY HIS CREATOR JEFF LINDSAY!
• It’s a new, blood-soaked adventure starring Dexter Morgan, who isn’t just Miami’s #1 forensic blood splatter expert … he’s also a serial killer who targets other serial killers!
• When Dexter travels down under, he quickly discovers that sharks aren’t Australia’s only deadly predator!
DISNEY KINGDOMS: SEEKERS OF THE WEIRD #2
Art: KARL MOLINE
Cover by MIKE DEL MUNDO
Variant Covers: PASCAL CAMPION, ALT DISNEY IMAGINEER BRIAN CROSBY
32 PGS./All Ages/$3.99
“Disney and Marvel fans won’t want to miss out on this” -- ComicVine.com
NOW YOU CAN FINALLY SEE IT: DISNEY’S LEGENDARY MUSEUM OF THE WEIRD!
• With their parents kidnapped, teens Maxwell and Melody leap into a thrilling race through the world’s most strange -- and dangerous -- museum!
• What lurks within the Wardens’ Library … and what is the Walking Chair? Who is the Shadow Society…and what do they want with the Coffin Clock?
• Designed -- but never built -- by famous Walt Disney Imagineer Rolly Crump, the Museum of the Weird at last comes to life!
On the heels of the first issue sell-out, Marvel is pleased to present your first look at Disney Kingdoms: Seekers of the Weird #2, the next thrilling chapter from critically acclaimed creators Brandon Seifert and Karl Moline!
Cover: Lee Weeks
848 PGS / $125.00
Steve Rogers might have been the prototypical 98-pound weakling, but that wasn’t going to stop him from serving his country. Transformed by the Super-Soldier Serum into America’s No. 1 fighting man, he became a symbol of patriotism, hope and perseverance on the eve of the nation’s entrance into World War II. Never before and never since has comics seen a hero as timely as Captain America!
Now at long last, you can experience the original Golden Age adventures of the Sentinel of Liberty from his 1941 inaugural appearance in one deluxe, oversized and re-mastered package! You’ll meet Bucky Barnes and the Red Skull for the first time, behold Simon and Kirby’s trend-setting brand of storytelling — and even read Stan Lee’s very first comic-book tale! So salute, soldier — Captain America has arrived! Collecting Captain America Comics #1-12, written by Joe Simon, Jack Kirby, Stan Lee, Al Avison and others, pencilled by Joe Simon, Jack Kirby, Stan Lee, Al Avison and others, with alternate covers by Lee Weeks and Alex Schomburg.
This is the kind of material that really calls for an Omnibus. But, alas, I already own the individual HCs.
IRON MAN ANNUAL #1
Art: CARLO PAGULAYAN
Cover: PAUL RIVOCHE
40 PGS./Rated T+/$4.99
• FATAL FRONTIER is over. The moon is safe. The Earth is safe. But is Tony’s sanity?
• What comes back from the moon with Tony? What new friends and new enemies?
Once you’ve passed the fatal, final frontier, can you ever go back?
Art/Cover: Piotr Kowalski
32 PGS./Rated T+ …$3.99
• An amnesiac Dr. Bruce Banner is locked in a desperate power struggle -- for his rampaging alter-ego!
• Who is Nikoleta Harrow, heir of A.I.M., and how has she enslaved the Hulk?
• It’s a brain-bending mystery and quirky cool Hulk action downloaded directly from the mad minds of Keatinge & Kowalski!
NEW WARRIORS #1
Art/Cover: MARCUS TO
Variant Covers: J. SCOTT CAMPBELL, SKOTTIE YOUNG, CHRIS SAMNEE
32 PGS./Rated T+/$3.99
WARRIORS REBORN! Adventurers SPEEDBALL and JUSTICE have come together with a group of young heroes including NOVA, SUN GIRL and HUMMINGBIRD (and even a couple of new faces) to stop the latest threat to the Marvel Universe -- the Atlanteans, Inhumans, clones and hundreds of other so-called “superior” beings are living among the humans of the Marvel Universe, but not everyone is pleased about it. THE HIGH EVOLUTIONARY has raised an army to combat the evolution of humanity – and the New Warriors are locked in his sights!
Witness the next generation of the Marvel Universe this February in NEW WARRIORS #1 – an all-new action packed ongoing series from blockbuster writer Christopher Yost and red-hot artist Marcus To! New Warriors mainstays Speedball and Justice are getting the band back together with a new team of heroes the likes of which you’ve never seen before!
“They’re eight people from different corners of the Marvel Universe, coming together to do the right thing, to be heroes,” says writer Christopher Yost, in an interview with Marvel.com. “They’re not kids, they’re not seasoned heroes for the most part, but they’re idealists. Sometime it’s okay to be a hero for the sake of being a hero; to be with a team because they’re your friends, because it’s fun.”
“Sometimes the world just needs saving,” continued Yost.
I've never been a big fan of the New Warriors in any incarnation. I'm especially appalled by Night Thrasher, whose name and outfit looks like it comes out of an S&M porn film.
But also, isn't Speedball really screwed up now? And isn't Namorita dead? And doesn't Firestar -- I'm sorry, are they calling her Sun Girl above? -- have cancer? And isn't Justice in jail? I'm a little confused.
Or maybe some of those covers above are representational, and those characters won't be appearing. Or ... something.
Art: RAMON ROSANAS
Cover: JAY SHAW
32 PGS./Parental Advisory/$3.99
• See the hideous, rotting-fleshed monster shambling about the landscape!
• Also: there are zombies in this comic!
• Get it? That first one was about Deadpool.
Art: PACO MEDINA
Cover: ED MCGUINNESS
Variant Cover: Frank Cho
Animal Variant by Paco Medina
32 PGS./Rated T/$3.99
All-New Marvel Now means some All-New Nova Wow!
After Infinity, Inhumanity, and the landmark 100th appearance of Nova, it’s been a crazy year for the galaxy’s newest hero! As Sam Alexander continues to hunt down clues of the Nova Corps demise, he finds an all new threat of his own making. But the arrival of former Mjolnir-wielder Beta Ray Bill means Nova’s days may be numbered.
NOVA VOL. 1: ORIGIN TPB
Art: ED MCGUINNESS
Cover: ED MCGUINNESS
160 PGS./Rated T+/$19.99
The new Human Rocket roars into action! Sam Alexander is a kid bound by the gravity of a small town -- and a father whose ridiculous, drunken fairy tales about a “Nova Corps” were just another heavy burden. But lucky for Sam, gravity soon won’t even matter -- and those troubles will be a billion miles away. It’s a boy, a helmet and an intergalactic legacy! As Sam trains with the Guardians of Galaxy’s Gamora and Rocket Raccoon, the helmet leads Nova into intergalactic conflict that will affect the entire Marvel Universe! Mysteries are revealed in this breathtaking new series by the best-selling, award-winning team of Jeph Loeb and Ed McGuinness (Hulk, Avengers: X-Sanction)! Collecting NOVA (2013) #1-5 and material from POINT ONE #1 and MARVEL NOW! POINT ONE #1.
PUNISHER #2
Art/Cover: by MITCH GERADS
Variant Cover: JEROME OPENA
32 PGS./Parental Advisory/$3.99
This February, Frank Castle continues his journey out west in THE PUNISHER #2 – and the City of Angels has no idea what it’s in for! From blockbuster writer Nathan Edmondson and red-hot artist Mitch Gerads – a lead on a major source of guns and drugs finds Punisher hot on the tail of the Dos Soles gang. But when he finds himself in the crosshairs of dozens of armed thugs – they’ll find the Punisher isn’t so easily dispatched! Now, with the help of some unlikely allies (including a coyote), the stage is set for Frank to wage his war on crime on the streets of L.A. – if he lives that long! Los Angeles is also home to some of the Marvel Universe’s big baddies, and you’ll never believe who’s turf Frank just stepped on! Don’t miss the shocking last page when the explosive new series continues in THE PUNISHER #2!
Variant Cover: TBD
32 PGS./PARENTAL ADVISORY/$3.99
• A routine rescue of a young girl opens up a web of intrigue for Wolverine.
• Corrupt cops, a cross-country chase and a mysterious conspiracy stands against Logan!
• Richard Isanove (DARK TOWER) continues his most savage tale of one man against the world!
Uh oh. This book is up to issue #15. Time for a reboot!
Art/Cover: MARCO CHECCHETTO
32 PGS./Rated T+/$3.99
Part two of the prelude to GOBLIN NATION!
• An all-out gang war with Spider-Man, Daredevil and the Punisher right in the middle!
• Kevin Shinick (MAD, Superior Carnage) continues as the new regular writer!
I'm guessing The Punisher probably likes Otto-pilot Spidey.
Penciled by ALVARO MARTINEZ
Cover: DAVE JOHNSON
112 PGS./Rated T+/$17.99
“World War X” is here! It’s Tian vs. Utopia as Jean Grey takes on Kitty Pryde! Will the planet be torn apart when the two mutant nations go to war? Alliances are broken, sides are chosen and betrayals abound. But after a sneak attack on Utopia, and Jean’s strict warning that the rest of the world should stay out of the war, will the global mutant-on-mutant conflict finally unite mutantkind -- or divide them forever? As the war claims its first casualties, Kitty becomes a revolutionary redux, Mach Two displays startling new powers, and James Hudson proves he’s more than just his father’s son! But when Utopia hatches an insane plan to end the war, will anyone remain standing to pick up the pieces? Collecting ULTIMATE COMICS X-MEN #29-33.
Art/Cover: CHRISTOPHER BACHALO
32 PGS./Rated T+/$3.99
• It’s training day for the students of the new Xavier School.
• Only, the training seems to be that the teachers just left them on mission to fend for themselves.
• Uh-oh.
Art: KRIS ANKA
Cover: TERRY DODSON
Variant Cover: TBA
32 PGS. /Rated T+/$3.99
AN ALL-NEW SISTERHOOD! The X-Men have taken down super villains, aliens and their own future selves … but never all at the same time! Lady Deathstrike has put together an all new Sisterhood, her own illuminati to take down the X-Men and take over the world. Recruiting the likes of Typhoid Mary and Enchantress, her cabal go on a global hunt for the most powerful of them all … an enemy who holds the X-Men responsible for her almost-destruction. Meanwhile, M settles in and Rachel comes to terms with her relationship with Sublime.
Looking forward to the advent of M in this book. You can't have too much snark!
BLOODSHOT AND H.A.R.D. CORPS #19
Art by BART SEARS
Cover by CLAYTON CRAIN
Variant Cover by BART SEARS
$3.99/T+/32 pgs.
“GET SOME” – Part Two! Bloodshot and H.A.R.D. Corps fight for more than they bargained for!
When a routine rescue mission goes horribly wrong, Director Kozol is taken captive by a group of grizzled psiot mercenaries with a vital key to Bloodshot’s past. The team fight to save Kozol’s life…and they don’t even like him! Duck and cover – because you’ve just dropped into in the middle of the Arabian Desert for a super-powered gunfight at an exploding oil pipeline!
Art by MING DOYLE
Cover by TOM FOWLER
Variant Cover by MING DOYLE
$3.99/T+/32 pgs.
CHARGE!
Quantum and Woody vs. Magnum Security…for all the marbles! Who would have suspected that Quantum’s employer Mr. Magnum and his private security firm were up to no good? So now the would-be victims of Magnum’s violence and greed rally around our unlikely heroes to protect their heavily fortified, heavily armed mountain town. These colors don’t run!
Art by DOUG BRAITHWAITE
Cover by CLAYTON CRAIN
Variant Cover by RILEY ROSSMO
Variant Cover by CLAYTON HERNY
$3.99/T+/32 pgs.
UNITY divided!
Here comes heavyweight showdown you’ve been waiting for! As Harada’s secret machinations come to light, the newly minted UNITY team will be faced with a choice that will change this team forever – and the Valiant Universe along with it. Get ready for a world-shaking battle royale as the final installment of UNITY’s first adventure pits X-O Manowar and Toyo Harada against the most dangerous battalion ever united – and each other.
OTHER PUBLISHERS
I was a little worried last week when St. Martin's was missing, and Hatchette was missing for two weeks. But both are back, so there's plenty of manga this week.
10TH MUSE VOL 4: CROSSOVERS (TPB)
Writer: Marv Wolfman, Various
Art: Nathan Watson, Various
$14.95
Throughout the years the 10th Muse has teamed up with some of the top comics such as Shi, Savage Dragon, Tellos, Legend of Isis, and Judo Girl. All these amazing stories brought to you by top comic talents such as Billy Tucci, Erik Larsen, Marv Wolman, Roger Cruz, and Mike Wieringo are put together in this single graphic novel. Also included is a never-before-seen crossover with indie favourite Koni Wave!
Writer: Ryan North
Art: Shelli Paroline, Braden Lamb
Cover: Matt Cummings, Luke Pearson
$4.99
Ever have a favorite item? Something that you plan to keep with you always? Something that has a history back further than you can remember? Something precious...cherished...that will continue on after you've left on your final adventure and keep continuing. This is the story of that gem, and how truly loved it was. Join an ensemble of fan-favorite creators as we celebrate the 25th issue of ADVENTURE TIME with this very special issue!
Writer/Art/Cover: Yuuki Kodama
$20.00
In the vein of Soul Eater, demon and human cultures clash in this dark, urban action/comedy! Unwilling to let anyone just waltz away with her little girl, Neyn sends Team Fearless -- a crew of vampire slayers -- after Staz and Fuyumi as they make their way to Demon World South. Team Fearless has never actually taken down a vampire, but they're looking to make good on their name and "save" Fuyumi. But for a hostage, the girl seems awfully eager to stay at the vampire's side. Has she fallen for the vampire's charms, or just for his blood?
Blood Lad: Worst. Legion of Super-Heroes try-out candidate. Ever.
BTOOOM VOL 5 (GN)
Writer/Art: Junya Inoue
$11.99
An expert gamer is forced to play a real-life version of his favorite game in a battle to the death! Unwilling to play by the rules of the twisted minds behind the live-action version of BTOOOM! in which he finds himself enmeshed, Ryouta Sakamoto vows, with his comrades, Himiko and Kiyoshi Taira, to find a way off of the deserted island that doesn't involve murder. But when giant carnivorous lizards and stab-happy ex-soldiers count among the residents of this island hell, Sakamoto finds that getting a little blood on his hands is inevitable!
If there isn't a game named BTOOOM, there should be.
Writer/Art/Cover: Yoshinobu Yamada
$10.99
Yarai's finally made it inside the mysterious lighthouse by the sea, but like everything on the island, it's more than it seems, full of locked doors. At the top of the tower, a desiccated corpse, crouched in a barrel with a key under its tongue, will give Yarai answers he never bargained for! Meanwhile, Akira and Mariya are still trying to discover the secret to the spire, when two well-dressed ruffians threaten to tear their group apart!
Writer/Art/Cover: Devon Massey
$3.75
Meriem accepts an offer to teach a class on how to defend and defeat dinosaurs and other jungle creatures that one might find around Marshville or on expedition. It's a tough world out there but with a teacher like Meriem the class is packed and everybody is "Hot for Teacher!" Hopefully they will learn something as well! Devon once again brings his incredible talent for a sexy Meriem and awesome dinos to our readers for this one-shot. The action is fast and furious as our Cavewoman lays down the law on how to battle for survival! Sign us up!
Wow, they're not even pretending any more, are they?
Writer: Seymour Chwast, Mark Twain
Art/Cover: Seymour Chwast
$22.00
A Mark Twain classic gets a makeover from the illustrator NPR has called "diabolically witty" and "devilishly expressive." Seymour Chwast, an icon of the graphic design world, has delighted audiences with his adaptations of The Divine Comedy, The Canterbury Tales, and The Odyssey, but it is in Mark Twain's A Connecticut Yankee in King Arthur's Court that he has found his match. Inspired by Twain's comic irreverence for the Knights of the Round Table, Chwast's illustrations showcase his humor at its finest. He brings us a brilliant imagining of the beloved hero, Hank Morgan, as well as the full cast of Camelot characters, from Merlin to Lancelot to the king himself. With a bold and colorful design and no shortage of witty surprises, this is Mark Twain as you've never seen him before.
Still a classic.
Writer: Michael Moreci, Tim Daniel
Art: Riley Rossmo, Colin Lorimer
Cover: Riley Rossmo
$3.99
Laney Griffin has captured the murderer that has been terrorizing his small town, but Anton Chavoy is no ordinary psychopath -- he's a werewolf. As Laney scratches dates off the calendar until the wolf's return, hoping Anton's transformation will be the proof that wins him the bounty to finance his son's leukemia treatment, Laney's problems continue to mount -- he's the chief suspect in Sheriff Nora Hughes' pursuit of the town's murderer. Laney is going to learn the hard way that the CURSE comes at the greatest cost.
Writer/Art/Cover: R. Stevens
$19.99
Bacon. Coffee. Vegetables. Join the Diesel Sweeties for an in-depth examination of how vices are good for you and vegetables are fortified with righteous indignation. This full-color collection is the perfect addition to any meal-instagramming foodie's diet. Delicious, nutritious and full of wood pulp fiber!
Writer: Nagaru Tanigawa, Noizi Ito
Art/Cover: Puyo
$13.00
The cast of Haruhi Suzumiya returns, but not quite as you know them! A school romance featuring Yuki Nagato set in a universe apart from the shenanigans of the SOS Brigade. Yuki -- that is, the "Yuki Nagato" from before her accident -- has recovered. Before she awakens, however, she is able to meet the Yuki who had taken her place while she slept. Her other self found the courage to tell Kyon her feelings directly. Now that she's back to normal, is it time for this Yuki to do the same?
Writer: Chris Sims, Chad Bowers
Art/Cover: Scott Kowalchuk
$19.99
One man versus every mascot in professional sports. THEY WILL ALL BE PUNCHED. It's kick-off time for this year's most action-packed and hilarious comic!
"Fearless" Chuck Fairlane was football's fastest rising star, but his career came to a screeching halt when he was expelled from the league affter goin' HAM and causing the giggest brawl in the history of sports. Years later, Chuck has found peace as a high school football coach, until costumed mascots begin attacking him for seemingly no reason. Before long, Chuck's going to discover that you can't run away from the past -- but you CAN punch it square in the face!
Writer: Max Brooks
Art/Cover: Raulo Caceres
$3.99
Horror doesn't get any bigger than having New York Times Bestselling Author; MAX BROOKS deliver a one-of-a-kind masterpiece like Extinction Parade! Brooks' zombie fiction has been a staple of the bestsellers lists but this new comic book project ups the ante with a whole new set of creatures to fear. And this issue begins the all-out war of the undead as the vampire race is finally thrust into the center of the subdead zombie epidemic. Three species in mortal conflict -- Extinction Parade: This is how a species dies! Available with Regular, Wraparound, End of a Species and Bloodwashed Retailer Incentive covers by Raulo Caceres. Also, available with a special black Leather cover, limited to just 1000 copies!
Another zombies-plus-vampires story. This is becoming a sub-genre all its own.
Writer: Joe Brusha
Art: TBD
Cover: Renato Rei
$2.99
More and more Highborns seem to be appearing on earth every day ... and most of them are disappearing just as fast. Wherever their going and whatever is happening to them is being swept under the rug by the government and its special branch for dealing with these powerful beings...Hibocorp. As Sela investigates the disappearance of one of her student she uncovers the horrible truth...a sinister plot that goes deeper than she ever could have imagined. Age of Darkness tie-in story.
Writer: Joe Brusha
Art: Miguel Mendonca
Cover: Marat Mychaels
$3.99
No race in Oz is more fierce or proud than the Kavari. Their traditions go back hundreds of years and both Thane and Thorne have been born into tribal royalty as the son of the chief. Competition against each other since birth for the right to rule the tribe their rivalry reaches its climax when they both fall in love with the same woman...and must fight each other to the death to determine who will win her hand.
Wow! A couple of GFT covers with no breasts front and center! (I bet sales fall!)
Writer: Raven Gregory, Patrick Shand
Art: Tony Brescini
Cover: Talent Caldwell
$3.99
Separated from her mother, Violet Liddle journeys through Wonderland with the ferocious Dark Cheshire hot on her trail. Little does she know that she is about to uncover a dark secret that will rock the foundations of Wonderland and the Liddle family. Enter... the VOID!
The final arc of the new WONDERLAND trilogy continues!
Ties in to the WONDERLAND ongoing series!
OK, back to SOP.
Writer: Raven Gregory, Patrick Shand
Art: TBD
Cover: Vincenzo Cucca
$15.99
The series that every wonderland fan has been waiting for is here! Of all the evil and sinister beings who have occupied the terrifying realm of Wonderland none have instilled fear in all they meet as much as one particular hat wearing villain. The boy turned man who nearly ended the world as we know it is back. The most diabolical villain in the history of wonderland returns! The story of Johnny Liddle's transformation into the sinister Mad Hatter will finally be told and his origin may very well drive you absolutely mad! From writers Raven Gregory (Wonderland trilogy) and Pat Shand (Unleashed) comes the follow up to the Wonderland series Down the Rabbit Hole, where a world of horror awaits and it's no farther away than a step...
Writer: Mike Costa
Art: Juan Frigeri
$3.99
JONATHAN HICKMAN's vision for the end of the world through divine retribution continues as an ongoing series from his co-writer MIKE COSTA! After the cataclysmic battle of gods in the first arc, human religions are in tatters. A victor has laid claim to Earth and very few dare to oppose such a ruler. But oh so many gods have yet to make their play, this time they plan and plot and prepare to bring Armageddeon! And now ... the things we prayed to have come once more. MIKE COSTA turns the intensity and darkness up a notch with his dramatic new stories about humanity at the brink. Available with not only a Regular cover but also a End of Days cover, Iconic, and Gilded Order Incentive copies by Jacen Burrows and a special Carnage Wraparound by German Nobile.
I guess sales have been pretty good to turn this into an ongoing (even without Hickman).
Writer/Art/Cover: Nico Tanigawa
$11.99
In this surprise, runaway bestseller, a high school first-year realizes that her dreams of popularity may be out of reach -- and it can't be her own fault, can it?! Despite having made it to high school, her long-awaited promised land, poor Tomoko Kuroki continues to strike out with her peers and remains utterly, wretchedly unpopular. And before she knows it, the first school term is nearly at its end! Can Mokocchi manage to make at least some happy memories over the break? Plunge into one girl's summer of ... agony!
Sweetie, it's OK if you're not popular. In fact, it's grossly over-rated. You don't need to be popular. You need to be feared. Make them FEAR you! DO IT! MAKE THEM FEAR YOU! MWAH-HA-HA-HAAAAAAA!
Writer: Shinichi Kimura
Art: Sacchi & Various
$13.00
Zombies -- with a magical twist -- and a magical girl! A very zombie Christmas is right around the corner! But what's this? Haruna, Eu, and even Sera seem to be getting jealous over me - or is it just my dead-sharp imagination? And let me tell you, I've been eagerly anticipating my chance to settle the score with that Chris! Say, who in the world is this tiny little girl? Huh? She's interested in me?
First rule of survival in the zombie apocalypse: Don't ask if it's a zombie. If it might be, shoot it, and figure it out later.
Writer/Art/Cover: Ko Jin Ho
$13.00
A high schooler finds herself decapitated on the first day of school and is caught between life and death in this tale of high school horror. Cornered among the slabs of the Ancient Rock, Helmina comes face-to-face with Dust, head of the West District. With Jack Frost kept busy fighting the West's vicious pack of warriors elsewhere, Helmina is forced to test the strength of her powers against the mighty lycanthrope. Alliances will shift and new powers will rise in the battle for dominance and the mirror image!
Wait: A living, bodiless head, Jack Frost, werewolves ... geez, they're pulling out all the stops, aren't they? Zombies and vampires are just around the corner, I bet.
Writer: R.J. RYAN
Art: DAVID MARQUEZ
128 pages/$29.95
In mid-21st century Northern California, prosperous technology executive George Joyner stands on the brink of revolutionizing life in America (again) with his latest high-flying invention. But just as business booms, George's private life begins to implode, with devastating consequences, for his wife Sonya, their children Rochester and Michelle and Sonya's ailing father, David. Brought to life in stunning anaglyph 3-D (two pairs of glasses come enclosed with each book), The Joyners in 3D details a story of personal betrayals, industrial intrigue and sexual desire in uncompromising and visually impeccable terms. The Joyners in 3D reunites writer R.J. Ryan and Ultimate Spider-Man illustrator David Marquez, collaborators on Archaia's acclaimed graphic novel Syndrome, for which Marquez earned a 2011 Russ Manning Award nomination.
Writer/Art/Cover: Yoshiki Tonogai
$12.99
In this survival horror manga series, a group of strangers are kidnapped and given the power to decide who among them will live or die. In the abandoned courthouse, to trust is folly. Is that the only rule, the only strategy to staying alive in the twisted game underway within? When the time for the Second Judgment arrives, a ruthless decision is made, to shocking effect. The sinners must accept reality, for idealistic notions have no place among these halls of cruel and swift justice!
Writer: Jean Van Art/Cover: Philippe Aymond
$11.95
Lady S. stands accused of being a spy -- and she didn't even do anything this time! What better place to forget the murky world of international spies than Washington, amid the murky world of politics? Suzan, still her adopted father's assistant, is now working at the White House, where she becomes the unwilling central figure in a nefarious plot to discredit the president of the United States. After bodies start turning up, Suzan's life is turned upside down once again, leaving her no choice but to run. Will she ever be able to stop?
LOKI: RAGNAROK & ROLL #1
Writer: Eric M Esquivel
Art: Jerry Gaylord
Cover: Alexis Ziritt
Variant cover: Jerry Gaylord
$3.99
WHY WE LOVE IT: Up-and-coming writer Eric Esquivel first caught our attention with Thor: The Unkillable Thunder Christ, and wowed us with his work on FREELANCERS. When he told us he wanted to bring those sensibilities to the trickster god Loki, we had to say "Yes!" Pairing him with FANBOYS VS ZOMBIES artist Jerry Gaylord sealed the deal.
WHY YOU'LL LOVE IT: Loki steps out of the shadow cast by his thunderous brother as Norse mythology crosses over with the only thing on Earth as wild and crazy ... rock and roll!
WHAT IT'S ABOUT: What happens when Odin banished Loki to Earth? He finds a world of outcasts that appreciate his style! While his kin sharpen their weapons, he picks up an electric guitar.
Wait till Loki: Agent of Asgard hears about this! Seriously, mythology is fair game for anyone who can come up with a good story, and why not the God of Mischief as a rock star? It makes perfect sense.
Writer: Xavier Dorison
Art/Cover: Mathieu Lauffray
$15.95
The dream of gold has turned to blood and ashes. The Neptune is gone, stolen by the Indian guide Moc, or maybe by Guiana-Capac's malevolent gods. The last members of the ill-fated expedition -- Silver, Dantzig, Livesey and Bonnet -- are stranded in the ancient city. Far from being broken, however, they will face head-on what lies inside the gargantuan ruin, each for his own reasons: revenge, duty, gold -- or to rescue the beautiful Lady Hastings. For Moc isn't done with them, and he has plans for Vivian.
Writer/Art/Cover Morris
$11.95
An early adventure of the Lonesome Cowboy as an official lawman Having accepted the sheriff's job in Red City, Lucky Luke arrives to find a town entirely under the control of Pat Poker, a ruthless gambler, cheat and saloon owner, and his henchmen. His horse, clothes and revolver stolen, Luke decides to pass himself off as a harmless, bumbling tenderfoot, all the better to study his opponents and catch them unaware. Still, Pat won't give up easily, and keeping him behind bars might require some additional work!
Writer: Gianfranco Manfredi
Art: Jose Ortiz
Cover: Bane Kerac
$12.99
The "angel" of the slums of Chicago, a woman known as Lady Charity, is not quite what she seems. Poe soon realizes what the score is, but becomes entangled in the web the diabolical woman has woven for him. Despite his best efforts, this may prove to be too much for Magic Wind to handle.
Writer: Ryan North
Art: Shelli Paroline, Braden Lamb
Cover: Jess Fink
$3.99
WHY WE LOVE IT: We have been having so much fun with writer Ryan North (Dinosaur Comics, To Be Or Not To Be: That Is The Adventure) on Adventure Time that we couldn't resist the opportunity to publish a new original idea of his. And it is original.
WHY YOU'LL LOVE IT: We've all heard of the Midas touch. You know, the Greek Mythology about the man who did a number on himself by wishing for everything he touched to turn to gold? Who better to turn that tale on its head with a heavy dose of scifi than Ryan North? Also, did we mention the Utahraptor?
WHAT IT'S ABOUT: Fatima and her space crew have decided to return to Earth - a planet completely sectioned off, abandoned, and covered in gold-to find out exactly what happened to this once thriving planet and see if they can use that knowledge against the evil empire that's tracking them down. As luck would have it, they just landed the most powerful weapon in the universe: some ancient dead guy's body!
Writer: Ryan North
Art: Shelli Paroline, Braden Lamb
Cover: John Keogh
$3.99
Dinosaurs, spaceships and adventure -- OH MY! With the Federation hot on their tails, how long can our favorite crew hold onto the source of the greatest power of all time: THE MIDAS TOUCH?
Writer: Torres El
Art/Cover: Enrique Lorenzana
$3.99
Nancy and The Dragon visit Amigo Comics! A demon has trapped Malcolm Dragon in Hell itself! His only chance to escape is the scantily-clad girl armed with a chainsaw: Nancy - and his spineless companion, the fallen angel Lucifer. Malcolm will need all his resources to survive the perils of Hell and the sinister forces that his father fought and left behind!
I was beginning to wonder if Amigo Comics was still in business, and lo, here they are.
Writer: Atsuko Asano
Art/Cover: Hinoki Kino
$10.99
The rumors were true! Armored vehicles from No. 6 roar through the gate into West Block, massacring the helpless and arresting everyone else. Amid the chaos, Shion and Rat realize this could be their only chance to get into the Correctional Facility and save Safu. But when they do make it inside, what they find is worse than anyone could have imagined.
Writer/Art/Cover: Diane Obomsawin
$16.95
On Loving Women is an all-new collection of stories by Diane Obomsawin about coming out, first love and sexual identity. With this work, Obomsawin brings her gaze to bear on subjects closer to home -- her friends and lovers' personal accounts of first realizing they're gay or first finding love with another woman. Her stripped-down pages use the bare minimum of linework to expressively reveal heartbreak, joy, irritation and fear. Within these pages, Obomsawin has forged a poignant, powerful narrative that speaks to the difficulties of coming out and the joys of being loved.
Writer/Art/Cover: Jun Mochizuki
$13.00
The New York Times best-selling gothic fantasy with an Alice in Wonderland twist! The pathetic farce that has unfolded in earnest is no more than an absurd yarn spun by the man who caused the Tragedy of Sablier by following his heart's desires. The players in his tale begin dancing with abandon, their emotions bottled up inside, as though they are marionettes manipulated by a master puppeteer!
Writer/Art/Cover: George Carlson
$49.99
Perfect Nonsense tells the story of one of the most innovative and under-rated Golden Age artists, children's illustrator and nonsense poets in American history. For more than 50 years, George Carlson created distinctive cartoons, comics, riddles, and games that thrilled both children and adults with their fanciful spirit and nonsensical humor. Until now there had never been a career retrospective of this startling creator and this book will astonish cartoon and comics aficionados, teachers of children's media, scholars of American humor, and anyone interested in the ever-evolving landscapes of image and language.
Writer: Magica Quartet & Various
$11.99
A brand-new story spun off from the world of the hit anime and manga series, Puella Magi Madoka Magica! From the very start, it was Kazumi who drew the girls of the Pleiades Saints together. But no magical girl, however beloved by her friends, is exempt from the fate that awaits them all. Fearing that the evil nut may be accelerating Kazumi's transformation, the girls are divided -- can the process be delayed, or should they take out Kazumi while they still can?
Man, where is The Baron when I need him? So many weird manga genres! What are they? Why are they? Brain exploding!
Writer: Frank J. Barbiere
Art: Joao Vieira
Cover: Chris Mooneyham
$3.99
WHY WE LOVE IT: With the release of RoboCop, a re-of the all-classic,
fans of the new and old will be immersed in the action, oppression and humanity that is
RoboCop. We cannot wait to be first in line for this new motion picture event!
WHY YOU'LL LOVE IT: Four anthology-one-exploring the world of the new
film, brought to you by some of the freshest voices in the industry -Joe Harris (GREAT
PACIFIC), Frank Barbiere (FIVE GHOSTS), Ed Brisson (SHELTERED), and Michael Moreci
(HOAX HUNTERS).
WHAT IT'S ABOUT: When Alex Murphy goes under the knife, his memories converge
with reality. Perception is blurred and his mind tries to cope with the changes forced upon
his very soul. Through a distortion of the past, his present horrors loom over him.
The man within must be corrupted to make way for the future of America.
Writer: Stephen Desberg
Art/Cover: Enrico Marini
$11.95
The lights of Rome have dimmed. When the Scorpion and his friends get back to the Holy See, it is a place of fear and death they find, a city cowering under Trebaldi's boot. Their only chance to destroy the Pope's power is to heed Rochnan's last words and look into the past of the Scorpion's mother. Dodging warrior-monks and Inquisitors, they begin to unravel a story that could yield some answers too horrible to contemplate!
Writers: Tom Dougherty, Rex Lindsey
$2.99
Bart's latest municipal felony leads to empty coffers at city hall and a huge cut in the public school budget. The call for volunteer civil servants leads to the hiring of Springfield's most dynamic public school teacher in years - Abraham Simpson! And it doesn't take long before he catches the eye of other highly placed, civic-minded leaders who set the Simpsons septuagenarian on a road to seeking even higher public office!
Writer: Humikane Shimada
Art/Cover: Yuuki Tanaka
$12.99
Strike Witches is the highly popular "dieselpunk" franchise that spans manga, light novels, video games and anime. The series re-imagines World War II as a confrontation between the allied human forces and an invading alien menace. In 1939, an enigmatic alien force called the Neuroi launched a widescale invasion of Earth, destroying nation after nation. Humanity's last hope at survival is to form an international elite fighting force of flying aces known as the Strike Witches! These young women possess innate magical powers and have been equipped with the latest in military technology: Striker Units, which provide the user with a unique array of weaponry that can only be controlled by magic. Enter a young healer named Yoshika Miyafuji, the newest inductee into the 501st Joint Fighter Wing. Yoshika may be opposed to the military, but if she wants to survive, she better learn quick from veteran ace and strict disciplinarian, Mio Sakamoto, just exactly what it means to be a Strike Witch!
The mind boggles.
Writer: Yuyuko Takemiya
Art/Cover: Zekkyo
$11.99
Ryuji Takasu thought that his ill-fated luck had turned around now that he was in Junior High sitting next to the girl of his dreams, Minori Kushieda. Ryuji was wrong. Because after unwittingly crossing the most feared and fearsome girl in school, Taiga Aisaku, everything went off the deep end! It's taken time, but Ryuji and Taiga have slowly found some common ground and can at least tolerate each other (just a little). The problem is, Fate just doesn't seem to throw Ryuji a bone. Everyone in Ryuji's class is now convinced that he and Taiga are dating -- even Minori! And to make matters even more embarassing, Minori has given Ryuji and Taiga her blessing. How's Ryuji ever going to win Minori's heart now?!
Writer/Art/Cover: Various
$3.99
Whether you're traipsing 'cross the glaciers of Hyperborea or merely facing the frigid facts of a snowy season at home, our daring damsels will warm your body and soul! Be they in leather or fur or padded brass fittings (and oh, how they fit), they'll make your steampunk steamier than ever before!
Writer: Anastasia Shestakova
Art/Cover: Crimson
$12.99
World War Blue is an all-new fantasy manga series inspired by the "console wars," the historic struggle for market share between manufacturers in the video game industry. In the continent of Consume, an endless war rages between bitter rivals: the Segua Kingdom vs. the Ninteldo Empire. Upon his dinosaur steed, the stern Emperor Marcus has led the Ninteldo Empire to near-victory. Now, with the majority of Consume under its control, Ninteldo has Segua up against the ropes. Enter a fleet-footed lad named Gear, who seeks vengeance against Ninteldo for his brother's death. After joining Segua's Army, Gear is enlisted in the Special Forces, due to his amazing speed. Yet the inexperienced, hasty youth may not be ready for the realities of war -- or he might just become the Segua Empire's last and greatest hope! Each volume includes an array of extra content, including color maps and pin-ups, detailed character bios, and fun bonus features delving into video game history and lore.
Wow.
Wonderful to see Ostrander's Martian MAnhunter being reprinted. What a wonderful series. I reread it recently. It stands up well as a complete series unto itself, even if Ostrander honors earlier imporatnt relationships of the main character, and DC history.
I think sometimes the reprint policies are a bit 'political'. On the back of this solicitation, I'm expecting to see an anouncement soon regarding Ostrander doing some work in the New 52 universe...
I read RED SONJA VOL. 1: QUEEN OF PLAGUES (TPB)via Comixology this week, (I bought 5 of the issues the day before they had a razzin' frazzin 50% off sale!)
This tale is pretty damn good. Probably as good as a Red Sonja story can be, which isn't a back-handed compliment. A red-haired female Conan in a chain-mail bikini? Comics were made for this...
I agree that Wonder Woman is very lucky to have Cliff Chiang on art. He is a maestro. One of the best artists currently going.
I was actually pretty blown away by his work on the otherwise pretty by-the-late-00s-numbers Green Arrow/Black Canary series. He understands that superheroes work well by being presented as hyper-real almost godlike beings.
I also admire that WW is one of the few Nu52 series that is being allowed to run it's course without too much idiotic tampering, firings and cancellations by TPTB.
Just don't ask me to read it... :-)
Glad to see the love for Gillen's JiM. Sophisticated longform storytelling like that from the Big Two seems rarer these days than ... heretofore.
It probably reads much better in collected form than spread out over all the monthly installments.
Also worth noting that it is one of the few reasons there could possibly be for reading Fear Itself.
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