While it isn't much of a tie-in to SECRET EMPIRE, ALL-NEW GUARDIANS OF THE GALAXY ANNUAL #1 still delivers an emotional yet exciting adventure for the Guardians. The artwork looks great, especially when it comes to alien races and constructs.

ASTONISHING X-MEN #16 is a seriously funny book thanks to Rosenberg's stellar writing. It continues to be a fun series, and a standout in a sea of X-Books. Frank D'Armata's colors steal the show this issue! Your mileage may vary when it comes to enjoyment of this issue, though, because the tone is so light. If you want to read a heavier X-Men series, look elsewhere.

AVENGERS: NO ROAD HOME #1 is comic book writing at its finest. The writing team delivers a smooth, exciting issue from start to finish. Paco Medina's art is superb. I can't wait to see how this series progresses.

BATMAN #27 tells the origin story of a lesser-known Batman villain named Kite Man. Writer Tom King's addition of intense, emotional drama into Kite Man's life makes this a compelling must-read rather than an obscure story about an obscure villain.

CAPTAIN AMERICA STEVE ROGERS #18 is a great look into the political side of the SECRET EMPIRE. The emotional artwork compliments the frightening story of an unhinged ruler striking fear into foreign ambassadors.

DARK NIGHTS: METAL #6 doesn't disappoint. It more than lives up the hype. Scott Snyder's amazing plotting and dialogue, combined with the sheer lunacy of what happens on every page, make this an issue for the ages. Greg Capullo's character designs and splash pages stand out in his already beautifully drawn work. Highly recommended!

The LEX LUTHOR/PORKY PIG SPECIAL is an absolute treat to read. It's hilarious from start to finish while also being a legitimately engaging story. Mark Russell loads the book with biting, contemporary satire. You won't want to miss this stupendous book. If you loved THE FLINTSTONES, you must pick up this book.

If the price point of twenty-five cents isn't enough to entice you, here's more! This book has some great standalone stories that also give a preview of the biggest events of the summer from DC. Overall, there's no weak link in this book; each story is phenomenal.

DEADPOOL KILLS THE MARVEL UNIVERSE AGAIN #1 is an exciting alternate reality tale featuring the Merc With A Mouth. Writer Cullen Bunn and artist Dalibor Talaji create an engaging tale about a hero slaughtering Marvel heroes against his will.

EDGE OF VENOMVERSE #2 is filled with great meta jokes and references to comic book tropes from writer Chris Hastings. The sometimes ultra violent action scenes are made hilarious by artist Irene Strychalski rather cartoony art style. It's the perfect book for fans of darkly humorous comics.

EXTERMINATION #1 proves that Ed Brisson should write more X-Men books. It's just a fabulous book chock full of huge, harrowing moments. It looks like it'll change the X-Men status quo for the near future. Pepe Larraz makes the book look absolutely stunning. You owe it to yourself to get this book if you're an X-Men fan.

EXTERMINATION #2 is a solid comic. It's not quite as exciting and suspenseful as the first issue, but it more than makes up for it with substantial characterization. Ed Brisson makes his mark as a great X-writer with this series.

EXTEMRINATION #3 looks, once again, absolutely stunning thanks to Pepe Larraz and Marte Gracia. Ed Brisson adds in some fantastic characterization to the mix. It continues this bombastic miniseries with panache.

EXTERMINATION #5 is, from beginning to end, a beautiful, exciting book. Ed Brisson makes this into his tribute to the Original Five, and boy is it amazing. All X-Men fans need to read this book, especially if you're a fan of the Original Five. Pepe Larraz's art is fraught with emotion, and that makes it look simply astounding.

THE FLASH #27 is a bold new chapter in the life of Barry Allen. Writer Joshua Williamson and artists Paul Pelletier & Howard Porter create a must-read story for all Flash fans.

THE FLASH #29 isn't the most exciting issue, but it has its engaging moments when it focuses on how Barry Allen's new powers take a toll on his life, work and wellbeing. Some inconsistencies in the art take away a bit from the story, but, for the most part, the art is quite detailed.

THE FLASH #40 features our hero fighting a preening, hyper-intelligent ape. It's the right kind of ridiculous which makes this issue a must read for Flash fans.

THE FLASH #44 is a truly enjoyable book. Williamson ramps up the emotion this issue, which makes it very memorable. Barry's letter to Iris is especially touching. Di Giandomenico's art makes the action look just beautiful.

THE FLASH #45 by Joshua Williamson and Christian Duce is one of the best issues of the series. While it doesn't feature any action-packed Speed Force thrills, it does get to the core of many of the characters. The best part by far, though, is Barry Allen's lovely talk with Iris West. Duce's art makes that scene just beautiful. It's worth the $2.99 just for that.

THE FLASH #46 tells a fascinating story about two refugees from a former timeline. It's a love letter to Geoff Johns' Hunter Zolomon issues. Fans of those books will be greatly pleased, but if you haven't read them, please do so before reading this issue. It'll make it less confusing and more enjoyable. Scott Kolins' art is the greatest part of this issue, since he's a pro at drawing The Flash.

THE FLASH #48 shows us the inciting incident for the FLASH WAR. Both Barry's and Wally's ideological differences make sense for each character. This issue is a tragic one, but it makes me excited for what comes next. Howard Porter's superb art adds to my excitement.

THE FLASH #49's end-of-issue twist filled me with disappointment. Despite on-point dialogue by Joshua Williamson and beautiful art by Howard Porter, I can't say that I was a fan of this issue. I'm holding out hope that Williamson redeems this issue with next issue's finale, but that remains to be seen.

THE FLASH #50 proves to be quite the memorable issue. Joshua Williamson delivers a fantastic finale to the FLASH WAR arc. It's sure to ignite excitement for what comes next in the series. Howard Porter's art is, as always, top notch.

THE FLASH #51 is another fantastic issue of a soon-to-be long-cherished run. Joshua Williamson delivers the best Wally West-centric issue since his return in DC UNIVERSE: REBIRTH. Scott Kolins' art looks as beautiful as ever. Wally West fans must not sleep on this issue.

THE FLASH #52 sputters a bit with its plot. However, writer Joshua Williamson takes the characterization into overdrive. He points out some of the most annoying foibles Barry's had in prior issues, and finally takes steps to remedy them. Plus, whenever he writes Iris, it's just a treat to read. Christian Duce's more realistic, less stylized artwork looks downright stunning.

THE FLASH #53 is just too bogged down by the Strength Force for me to recommend it. It has some flashes of good with some subplots, but overall, it just couldn't hold my interest. Perhaps the next issue will build upon those great subplots.

THE FLASH #54 is a fun little book. It doesn't take itself too seriously most of the time, but when it does get serious, it's well earned. I totally recommend it to fans of the TV show and the character in general.

THE FLASH #55 includes some absolutely stunning artwork by Scott Kolins. It's a feast for the eyes. On top of that, Joshua Williamson's writing is, once again, on point. It's a fantastic book all around!

THE FLASH #56 proves to be one of my favorite Flash issues of the year. It includes fun action, scary horror, and beautiful character moments. Joshua Williamson, once again, outdoes himself this issue. Scott Kolins's art looks like something out of a nightmare, and I love every panel because of it.

THE FLASH #57 ends this story arc with a truly satisfying finale. Joshua Williamson, yet again, writes an on-point tale about the Flash and one of my favorite supervillain teams, the Rogues. The writing is just superb. Scott Kolins's art looks just stunning. You shouldn't miss this issue!

THE FLASH #58 is a superb issue. It changes the feel of the book by placing the Flash in a new setting with a new mission. It's the perfect jumping-on point for the series. Joshua Williamson writes some fantastic characterization as well as a truly interesting plot. Rafa Sandoval draws a beautiful looking book.

THE FLASH #59 has some top-notch writing by Joshua Williamson. He's added some seriously interesting revelations about the new Forces. Rafa Sandoval's art looks, as always, just stunning.

Joshua Williamson and Rafa Sandoval introduce Fuerza in THE FLASH #60. This new character shows a real promising start in this issue. Hopefully, there will be many more to come with her! Williamson writes her impeccably and Sandoval's design is instantly eye-catching.

THE FLASH #61 has some fun scenes throughout the book. However, much of the issue is focused on Fuerza and, unfortunately, her portrayal in this book did not -- in my opinion -- live up to her potential in the previous issue. Christian Duce and Luis Guerrero, though, deliver some stupendous art.

THE FLASH #62, unfortunately, adds nothing interesting to the mix. It tells a formulaic story that's been done multiple times before and doesn't build upon any of the tropes used. Christian Duce and Luis Guerrero's character designs are interesting, though. However, it's not enough for me to recommend this issue.

THE FLASH #63 just doesn't reach the highs that prior arcs reached, especially the FLASH WAR arc. Joshua Williamson is clearly not at his A-game with this arc, and it shows. Minkyu Jung's art, though, is quite a stunning sight.

THE FLASH #64 continues "The Price" with a superb issue. The dramatic moments where Barry remembers Wally really stand out, thanks to Joshua Williamson's terrific plotting and dialogue. Rafa Sandoval is a master at drawing THE FLASH.

THE FLASH #65 is a must read if you're at all interested in Barry Allen. It sets the stage for future issues of this book. It ends "The Price" in a fantastic but grim finale. Joshua Williamson is at the top of his game with this book. Rafa Sandoval has some beautiful double-page spreads in this book, as well.

THE FLASH #65 focuses not on the titular character, but on an oft-overlooked one -- the original Trickster. Joshua Williamson fills the issue with moments that make you both pity and scorn the villain. Scott Kolins fills the issue with incredibly detailed art.

THE FLASH #67 is yet another fabulous issue. This issue feels like a very well-constructed Silver Age throwback, thanks to Joshua Williamson's inventive plot and script. Scott Kolins' designs and attention to detail elevate the book even higher.

THE FLASH #68 doesn't quite reach the highs of the prior issue. However, that doesn't mean you should sleep on it. Joshua Williamson's characterization of James Jesse is incredibly fun. Plus, Scott Kolins' art is top notch.

THE FLASH #69 finishes the Trickster arc in the most satisfying way possible. It's supremely well written by Joshua Williamson. His characterization, especially, is in peak form. Scott Kolins delivers another magnificent-looking issue.

THE FLASH #70 is the perfect jumping-on point for any new or returning Flash fans! It offers a unique twist on Barry Allen's origin, and includes some stellar characterization from Joshua Williamson. Howard Porter's art is just stunning.

THE FLASH #71 continues the "Year One" arc with another stellar issue. Joshua Williamson continues to bring amazing characterization to the table. Howard Porter also continues to stun me with his fabulous art.

THE FLASH ANNUAL #2 totally blew me away. It's both a beautiful portrait of a man grieving over his newly deceased friend, and an exciting superhero story, all in one. Joshua Williamson outdoes himself with this issue. Scott Kolins and Luis Guerrero craft one of my favorite comic book pages ever. Just superb.

FRIENDLY NEIGHBORHOOD SPIDER-MAN #1 is laid back, almost to a fault. However, Tom Taylor still delivers a very enjoyable book from start to finish. I definitely recommend it to Spidey fans, since it's got some classic Peter Parker moments in it. Juann Cabal's beautiful art makes up for any slights I may have with the story.

Al Ewing brings the Hulk back from the dead in THE IMMORTAL HULK #1. Literally. It's the most refreshing Hulk book I've read in years. It reinvigorated my interested in the character. The dark, gothic horror tone of the book is wonderful. Joe Bennett's art is suitably scary-yet-detailed.

THE IMMORTAL HULK #2 feels just like a classic Hulk story. Ewing totally understands the Hulk, and it shows. Bennett adds some fabulous artwork to the mix. It makes this one of the best Hulk books in recent memory.

THE IMMORTAL HULK #3 is downright memorable. It tells an engaging story in a truly unique way. I continue to be impressed by what Al Ewing's doing with this book. It just keeps getting better and better. The guest artists all shine in their respective story sections. Pick up this issue, even if you haven't read the first two issues. You won't regret it!

THE IMMORTAL HULK #4 is another superb addition to a phenomenal new series. Al Ewing shifts the focus to an oft-overlooked character to great effect. Joe Bennett draws this character just about perfectly. You won't want to miss this one!

THE IMMORTAL HULK #5 proves to be yet another seriously stupendous issue in an already stellar run. Al Ewing outdoes himself this issue with the amount of pathos he pushes into the story. Joe Bennett's art is simply haunting. If you're a Hulk fan and haven't read this series yet, fix that immediately!

THE IMMORTAL HULK #6 doesn't have as much action as prior issues, but it makes up for it with fantastically written sequences involving Bruce Banner and his inner monologue. Al Ewing truly understands the character, as evidenced by this issue. Lee Garbett's art looks downright frightening, which makes the issue all the more memorable.

THE IMMORTAL HULK #7 is one of the most memorable issues of the year. It's pure fun from start to finish. Al Ewing writes one of the most exciting Hulk issues in a while. Joe Bennett draws one of the greatest looking issues of the series.

THE IMMORTAL HULK #8 is the scariest issue of an already terrifying series. Al Ewing crafts a terrifically chilling story which works just as well on its own as it does as the part of an ongoing story. Joe Bennett gives his all this issue, and it shows. It's a perfect jumping-on point for this incredible new series.

THE IMMORTAL HULK #9 is a beautiful-looking book. From start to finish, the art looks downright mesmerizing. That's thanks to the art team of Joe Bennett and Martin Simmonds. Al Ewing, as usual, writes truly stupendous book as well.

THE IMMORTAL HULK #10 brings this series to new, horrifying heights. Ewing's writing is chilling and Bennett's art looks downright frightening. It's the perfect comic for horror fans and Hulk fans alike.

THE IMMORTAL HULK #11 proves why this book was one of the best books of 2018. Ewing goes above-and-beyond to craft a story that includes both superhero action and deep questions about God and Hell. This book is instantly memorable. It should go down as one of the best issues of the year, and it's only the first week of January.

THE IMMORTAL HULK #12 proves that this series is a modern masterpiece. It's another heady, intensely intellectual issue, thanks to Al Ewing's brilliant script. Joe Bennett, Eric Nguyen, and Paul Mounts all make the issue look as amazing as possible. A Perfect 100.

THE IMMORTAL HULK #13 is another home run. The art and the writing is just superb. Al Ewing and Joe Bennett are at the top of their game with this issue. At this rate, this series will stay as immortal as the title character himself!

THE IMMORTAL HULK #14 delivers a more subdued, heartfelt issue that delves deep into Betty Ross' character and her tumultuous relationship with her deceased father. Al Ewing delivers one of the most engaging Betty Ross stories in recent history. While ever so slightly less engaging than the prior story arc, it's still one top-notch book.

THE IMMORTAL HULK #15 is beautiful in every aspect of the book. Al Ewing plots and scripts the book impeccably. Joe Bennett fills the issue with incredibly detailed, beautiful art. Just a tremendous book all around.

THE IMMORTAL HULK #16 proves that Al Ewing is, very likely, in the midst of the greatest Hulk run of all time. It's another stupendous issue. Joe Bennett draws the best Hulk transformation I've seen. It's horrific, and I love it!

THE IMMORTAL HULK #18 is a perfect comic book. It tells an engrossing story, includes top-notch character development, and has absolutely stupendous artwork. Al Ewing, Joe Bennett, and co. deserve all the accolades they're getting.

THE IMMORTAL HULK #19 is the most heartbreaking issue of the series. It delves deep into Betty Ross' wounded psyche. Al Ewing crafts one of the most beautifully tragic books in Hulk history. Joe Bennett draws the Red Harpy with so much rage and sadness, it's haunting to look at her.

JUSTICE LEAGUE #2 is loads of fun from start to finish. It captures the essence of Silver Age DC books while also adding something fresh to the mix. Scott Snyder embraces the ridiculousness of superhero comics, to the book's benefit. Jorge Jimenez backs this up with fantastically stylized art that fits the plot to a T.

Chip Zdarsky and Valerio Schiti create an engaging issue with MARVEL TWO-IN-ONE #3. I highly recommend it for Fantastic Four fans, since Zdarsky does an exemplary job writing Ben and Johnny.

Fantastic Four fans owe it to themselves to pick up this book. Chip Zdarsky writes one of the most heartbreaking Reed Richards tales in a while in this book. Valerio Schiti brings this alternate reality Reed's emotions to life in a beautiful way.

MARVEL TWO-IN-ONE #6 by Chip Zdarsky and Jim Cheung is a fantastic ending to the book's first arc. It's got exciting action and on-point characterization. It's clear Zdarsky truly loves these characters. Cheung's art makes this a legendary issue. Don't miss it.

MARVEL TWO-IN-ONE #7 is a memorable issue filled with awesome character moments, especially for Dr. Doom. Plus, Chip Zdarsky creates a truly interesting new alternate reality this issue. On top of that, it's got some fantastic art by Ramn K. Prez and Federico Blee, who create a real sickly looking dystopian wasteland.

MISTER MIRACLE #7 is an amazing issue. It's the perfect blend of humor and serious, relatable drama with some heartwarming moments peppered in. Tom King outdoes himself with this issue. Mitch Gerads' art elevates this book from great to outstanding.

THE PUNISHER: PLATOON #6 may be my favorite Punisher book of all time. It packs a powerful and emotional punch. Garth Ennis makes each character a fully developed human being. Goran Parlov's art acts as the perfect complement to Ennis' writing. You must pick up this series if you love The Punisher.

QUICKSILVER: NO SURRENDER #1 is filled with great Pietro Maximoff moments. Saladin Ahmed truly gets the character. It makes the issue a satisfying read for Quicksilver fans. I wasn't a big fan of the art, but you may be!

SECRET EMPIRE UNITED #1 is an integral part of the SECRET EMPIRE saga. It's a must-read for fans of the event or the X-Men. It brilliantly blends political satire, exciting action, and racial tensions. The art is detailed and immersive.

SHAZAM #1 is an absolute delight. It's a nice, light story which is incredibly reverent to the character. Geoff Johns clearly loves Shazam, and it shows. Dale Eaglesham evokes Norman Rockwell in his art to portray this touching story. It looks truly beautiful.

In SPIDER-MAN #19, writer Brian Michael Bendis includes no drawn out action scenes. Instead, he intensely focuses on the book's characters. In doing so, he adds some incredibly interesting ideas about Miles Morales' place in the Spider-Man legacy.

SPIDER-MAN #237 prepares Miles Morales for Bendis' final issue. Bendis tells an emotionally resonant tale of multiple families reuniting, for better or worse. The art makes the issue all the more resonant. A must read for Spider-fans.

SPIDER-MAN #238 takes an exciting premise but falls flat in a somewhat uneventful story. Brian Michael Bendis writes a pretty funny and interesting script, but it can't make up for the plot. Not even Brian Reber's superb coloring can save the book from the story's dull nature.

SPIDER-MAN #239 has a lot to like. It has a great callback cameo, it has a great character moment for Miles, and it has some great color work by Brian Reber. However, it doesn't feel like the second-to-last issue of a huge, years long epic. I really hope Bendis and Co. prove me wrong next issue.

SPIDER-MAN #240, the summation of Brian Michael Bendis' work on the ULTIMATE SPIDER-MAN series, is a truly touching finale. It draws upon real events in Bendis' life and he uses them to tell an emotional issue. If you love Miles Morales, pick up this book.

Writer Brian Michael Bendis adds some deep characterization to the two Spideys in SPIDER-MEN II #2. He isn't too heavy on the plot in this issue, though. Sara Pichelli's art and Justin Ponsor's coloring make the issue beautiful to look at. Hopefully Bendis adds more plot in later issues, because a five-issue miniseries can only handle one filler issue.

SPIDER-MEN II #3 by Brian Michael Bendis and Sara Pichelli is the best issue of the miniseries to date. It blends suspense and friendship to tell the story of the villain. It makes the reader care about the villain of the book, which is no small feat. This is a must-read.

THANOS #9 is a superbly written issue by the great Jeff Lemire. On top of having great characterization, the book also features a great addition: the return of narration boxes filled with cheeky humor.

THANOS #16 is a fun romp that tells the origin of the alternate reality Ghost Rider version of Frank Castle. It's filled with humorous dialogue and gags. Writer Donny Cates made this one of the most memorable issues I've read in a while. Artists Geoff Shaw and Antonio Fabela helped make it a hilarious book.

You won't regret picking up THANOS #17. It's an exciting issue filled with action, tremendous art thanks to Geoff Shaw and Antonio Fabela, and even some truly touching emotional moments courtesy of Donny Cates. Only one more issue left, jump on now!

If you love Thanos, you owe it to yourself to pick up this book. Donny Cates and Geoff Shaw bring their fabulous run on THANOS to a close with THANOS #18. It more than lives up to the hype. It's action-packed but also has a strong emotional center. This is easily of my favorite books of the year so far.

THANOS ANNUAL #1 is a phenomenal issue. Packed to the gills with world-class writers and artists, it's an issue that can't be missed by Thanos fans. It comes out just in time for AVENGERS: INFINITY WAR too, for all you MCU fans out there.

Jeff Lemire and Ivan Reis' THE TERRIFICS #1 comes as somewhat of a disappointment. I had high hopes for this series, and some of them were dashed with this issue. It focuses a bit too heavily on exposition and set-up for future installments. I will admit, though, that the art is just beautiful and that some of the characterizations are very entertaining. For even those points alone, I have hope for future issues.

U.S.AVENGERS #8's powerful story about acceptance is a must read for Marvel fans. Writer Al Ewing and artist Paco Medina create a great tie-in to the SECRET EMPIRE event.

VENOM #1 should please all Eddie Brock fans. Donny Cates tells a truly interesting story about Brock that doesn't seem to retread on old ground. It feels fresh and that's very welcome. The dark, gothic tone fits this book perfectly. Ryan Stegman's art is, as always, fantastic.

VENOM #2 is downright scary. However, it's also an outstanding book. Fans of Venom should not miss this book. Donny Cates adds some great new Venom lore to the mix, and also tells a chilling story. Ryan Stegman's art looks like it's right out of a horror movie, and I love it.

VENOM #3 lives up to this series' continued hype. It's sure to be a fan-favorite issue, and for good reason. It adds an intriguing character to the Venom lore and gives Miles Morales fans a bit of closure about a long dormant plot thread. Donny Cates and Ryan Stegman are modern masters of horror, and I can't wait to see what's next!

VENOM #4 tells the previously unrevealed true backstory of the Klyntar race. It's a fantastic read from start to finish. Donny Cates writes a superb script and Ryan Stegman, once again, blows me away with his phenomenal artwork.

VENOM #5 is just so exciting. Donny Cates cements his status as an A-list writer with VENOM. This issue is no exception. Ryan Stegman's artwork belongs in a museum; it's just that good. Pick up this book immediately. It's my favorite book of the month.

VENOM #6, plain and simple, is my favorite book of the month. It's a perfect ending to an already sublime story arc. Donny Cates continues making this series into one of the most enjoyable books on the stands. Ryan Stegman makes this issue look as stunning as possible.

VENOM #7 is yet another fabulous addition to an already stupendous series. Donny Cates fills the issue with on-point dialogue and shocking plot twists. Iban Coello designs a downright frightening-looking Venom. You cannot miss this issue.

VENOM #8 is a beautiful love letter to Flash Thompson's time as Agent Venom. Donny Cates shows us what Eddie thought of Flash and how his death affected both him and the symbiote. He does this marvelously. Iban Coello really captures the raw emotion Eddie feels when giving Flash his eulogy. This is a truly beautiful issue.

VENOM #9 tells an incredibly grim story. Eddie Brock's dark inner monologue takes the spotlight this issue. Cates adds some superb characterization for Eddie, digging into his psyche to tell a bleak, but engaging, story. Ryan Stegman and Frank Martin pair their art to the dialogue, making the issue look just as somber as the writing.

VENOM #10 is sure to be one of the most talked about issues of the series so far. It introduces another tragic layer to Eddie Brock's backstory in a dynamic way. It's not for the faint of heart, but it's a truly powerful issue that deals with some really heavy themes in a very tasteful way, thanks to Donny Cates' deft writing and Ryan Stegman's superb art.

VENOM #11 is pure quality. From start to finish, this book is filled with dialogue and plot points that really resonate. Donny Cates delivers the best issue of this series, so far. Ryan Stegman and Joshua Cassara draw some truly beautiful pages.

VENOM #12 cements this book's reputation as, quite possibly, the best Venom run ever written! Donny Cates delivers, yet again, a near-flawless script. Joshua Cassara replaces Ryan Stegman for this issue, but the quality sure doesn't change.

VENOM #13 changes Eddie's status quo in an exciting way. However, the poorly-paced plotting serves as a detriment for the issue, holding back its full potential as a superb issue. Iban Coello's character designs are top notch.

VENOM #14 improves upon the first issue of the arc in a few ways, including Cullen Bunn's fantastic characterization of Eddie Brock. However, it's still plagued with pacing issues. Iban Coello's art, though, continues to shine.

WEB OF VENOM: VE'NAM #1 isn't for the faint of heart. It features some gruesome sequences. However, it's also a beautiful book. Cates, once again, outdoes himself with this issue. You won't want to miss this exciting new one-shot.

WEB OF VENOM: CULT OF CARNAGE #1 is incredibly engrossing, plot-wise. Unfortunately, Frank Tieri's script clashes with the tone of his plot, because of his inclusion of various jokes during tense moments. Artists Danilo S. Beyruth and Andres Mossa perfectly capture the eerie tone with their art. I'd still recommend the book, though, because of the plot and the art and because it's an integral chapter in the Venom saga.

WEB OF VENOM: VENOM UNLEASHED #1 marks Ryan Stegman's debut as a Venom writer. He really knocks it out of the park, too. It's a truly engaging, art-focused issue. Kyle Hotz' gothic artwork fits Stegman's script perfectly.

X-23 #1 is a fantastic issue from start to finish. Tamaki does Laura justice with some truly amazing writing. Juann Cabal adds some stunning visuals which are sure to please. Don't sleep on this book!