So, while most of The Sandman Universe titles have been a letdown to me thus far, Lucifer is shaping up to be what its protagonist once was mythologically, and seems to be again in these pages, a beautifully shining light amidst the drudgery on the weekly racks.

Black Crowns Lodger is a hit only one issue in, and should be on the top of your monthly reading pile for as long as it lasts.

Kelley Jones' Batman Kings of Fear is just another example of the powerful and unique storytelling ability of one of the greatest sequential artist of this era of the art form. I can't wait for his next project, and this one isn't even over yet.

Scarlet is Bendis and Maleev at their best, and you best better be reading this series.

While Jones is a master at shading and detail, and his artwork would be as beautiful denuded of color as well as fully colored, it is more than enhanced here through the brilliant work of Michelle Madsen, who previously worked with Jones on such titles as Convergence: Swamp Thing and Batman Gotham After Midnight. As was the case with her work with Jones on both titles, Madsens bright, yet wonderfully nuanced and multi-shaded colors meld inseparably with Jones pencils and inks to complete the visual story that Jones and Peterson are telling. It would be a vastly different, and inferior, rendering of Batman Kings of Fear without her influence on the visuals.

I'm still going to give the new series a try. I'm perpetually starved for the type of story that The Sandman was: intelligent, emotional, deep, mythological, literary, and just plain engaging. I know none of these new Sandman Universe tales can live up to the original. I can only hope they make a valiant attempt.

The fact that Slott is injecting some joy into the proceedings though is a welcome development overall. Marvel Comics' first family deserves some happiness, especially Ben Grimm/The Thing. There's enough in this issue to make me curious about what's next, but it's going to take some of that old Kirby (now Hickman) smart sci-fi to keep me interested. Family dynamics isn't enough. We'll see where this new Fantastic Four goes.

I love this series. I wish it was published every week instead of every month. Actually, no I don't. The monthly schedule allows Ewing and company to plot, pace, and draw this phenomenal book properly. I can wait. It's a tough wait though.

Tyler Crook has followed Cullen Bunns story through to the end with the same type of unique artwork that made the comic book stand out from the other books on the weekly racks. A visual masterpiece that is both impressionistic color wise, yet beautifully detailed and emotionally vivid pencil and ink wise. His visions of Harrow Countys darkest horrors, as well as its most gentle folk, was nothing short of stunning month in and month out.

It is the story though, which is a master class in storytelling put on by Ewing, of the psychological horror that plagues all men of conscious when faced with what they are capable of, even in the face of great evil, that really powers The Immortal Hulk #1. Folks, this is only the first issue of the series as well. I simply cannot wait to see what other horrors, physical and psychological that Ewing has in store for us.

I haven't been this excited about a DC Comics title since Superman went through his recent Rebirth of the last few years. This is the DC Comics' superhero title that will prove to be the biggest, if not the best, read of the year. Venditti and Hitch are already a winning combo on Hawkman. Again, this is only after one issue. Just imagine what awaits us readers as the series progresses.

I'm not sure what the purpose of this Action Comics Special was, besides to get me to buy more Superman comics, and maybe give some of the industry's top talents a (last) crack at telling a Big Blue Boyscout story. Whatever it was, it worked, and it was worth the cover price. If only to get the chance to read yet another Dan Jurgens Superman story.

So, yes, it's safe to say that this newest incarnation of The Avengers will definitely measure up, and in some ways exceed, previous volumes of the book, and yes, there's definitely enough here, story and art wise, to be excited about. As Cap says at the end of The Avengers #1, and as he's said many a time before, "Avengers Assemble!"

Superman has been an inspiration to kids, readers, adults, writers, artists, and dreamers of all ages for 80 years and counting. Action Comics #1000 overall is a fitting, if not perfect, tribute to the hero that started it all.

Mindbender's first full arc has been published and I highly recommend reading the whole of the 6 issues it is comprised of. Once you do, you'll be anxiously awaiting the next arc, as I am. Based on the strength of Mindbender, I'm intrigued to check out more of this relatively new publisher's line. I suspect there may be many more gems awaiting discovery in the Scout Comics' vaults.

"BizarroVerse" is am bad read! (Meaning its pretty darn good in DCUVerse speak).

Action Comics #1000 is right around the corner and I cannot wait to see what the good folks at DC Comics have in store for us lifelong Superman fans, but still thrill monthly to Jurgens's stories and will continue to...hopefully.

Patrick Gleason is one of the most influential and, most recognizable, and most groundbreaking artist of the past two decades. There's little more praise that I can heft upon him beside the fact that he is one of my favorite mainstream superhero artists of all time.

While all the focus is over on Action Comics with it's countdown to #1000, but Superman remains a solid month to month read.

Destined to be studied in classrooms across academia much like Incognegro is, Incognegro: Renaissance is another Johnson/Pleece joint not to be missed.

The march to Action Comics #1000 continues, but Superman and Booster Gold, not to mention Lois and Jon, have some tight situations to get out of first in Action Comics #998.

I'm stoked to see James Robinson and Doug Mahnke teamed up on an issue of Superman. I don't know how else to put it. I'm stoked and can't wait for the next issue from the two of them.

Few superheroes can effectively star in a story such as the one told by Tomasi and Gleason here and actually shoulder the moral weight that it requires. This is why Superman is and always will be a special creation and a special character in the right writers' hands.

A solid, if not entirely overwhelming, debut, Hungry Ghosts #1 is a worthy offering from the nascent Berger Books imprint from Dark Horse Comics, but I'm hoping for deeper material as the imprint grows, and this series continues.

Kudos to Paul Cornell for doing something rare these days in the world of sequential art: delivering a quality story driven book that actually manages to keep its readers engaged, guessing, and thoughtfully entertained.

Moving in all the right directions in all the right ways, Vertigo Comics' Imaginary Fiends satisfies and keeps Vertigo on the map.

So with one of the best writers in the business teamed up with one of the most consummate and talented artists in the business in Phil Noto, Astonishing X-Men readers are in good hands going forward as "A Man Called X" unfolds over the next several months.

Fun, if not totally original, Mystic U has plenty to keep the reader entertained if not enchanted.

Still basically filler story, with some touches of fun and ideals, "Imperious Rex" hopefully concludes next issue.

Hopefully, Superman #34 is just a filler story between greater arcs. Hopefully.

Sometimes Seeley's work really isn't all that inspiring, but often times it is pretty good for a scare or a unique twist on old horror tropes and themes. Imaginary Fiends, based on the merits of its first issue, looks to be one of these times.

I've been a fan of The Demon since I began reading comics. He always frightened me a little, but intrigued me at the same time. In Constant and Walker's capable hands, this Demon fan has found yet another new series, even if it is only a 6 issue one, to be excited over.

I could spend plenty of more time singing the praises of Soule's work, but I don't want to come off as too much of a fanboy and maintain some objectivity in my review...but, I don't think I would be successful in the latter. Let's just say that Daredevil is one of my favorite titles right now and if you like the gritty realism of the Daredevil Netflix series, and realistic and smart legal dramas (like the original Law and Order series) then you'll love Daredevil as much as I. Read it.

Genuinely creepy, and heavy on the gore, only one story really stands out, and its "Man's World" by Mary SavGiovanni and Bilquis Evely. You'll never look at Wonder Woman the same way. "The world of man hell is going to be a glorious war." Indeed. Unfortunately, this one shining gem isn't enough to rescue DC House of Horror #1 (2017) from it's $9.99 cover price, and otherwise lack of originality.

Still worth reading, but weighted down by unnecessary tropes and guest appearances, New Super-Man remains a unique superhero read.

Interesting and compelling characters, a frightening premise, plenty of tension, and loads of creepy creatures comprise this comic book making it a fun read. It's Bunn's excellent grasp on storytelling that makes it a must read. Dark Ark from Aftershock Comics is shaping up to be not only the must read this fall but THE read of this fall.

Supergirl and its first Annual of this volume are solid superhero comics with fun and smart storytelling and realistic characterizations. What else can you ask for?

Superman is still a fun read, even when a fill in story between major arcs pops up. I'll keep reading.

The American Way Those Above and Those Below is a worthy entry into the "what if" real world superhero genre and one that, despite its 1970s setting, is highly relevant to the state of race relations and politics today.

The only question now, even more so than "what happens now?" is "when does the Savage Things movie go into production?"

Seeley can really amaze me with his stories and art at times, and bore me to tears at others. I have to say that he's done a great job with the first chapter of his run here on Hellblazer, so hopefully this is one of the times I'll really dig his work.

Let's get this Suicide Squad cameo over and get back to the characters that matter. The characters that make New Super-Man unique amongst the regular superhero titles on the monthly racks.

Vertigo Comics' Savage Things is racing towards it end. I for one will be sad to see it go. Maybe there will be a sequel, but let's not get ahead of ourselves. Cain and Abel's final confrontation awaits.

Politics, love, and Russian interference. Yeah, I'm loving X-Men Gold right now. Now, if Guggenheim can work in some X-Men punching out Nazis story lines over the next few issues, I'd be in X-Men, and comic book reading, heaven.

Still a great read, even with the artistic change, New Super-Man is the Spider-Man of the DC Universe, and he's just as fun a character to read and follow.

If ever short lived series with this much potential deserved a new lease on life, its this one. Saucer State is going to be the book to watch over the next few months (and hopefully years).

I'm still enjoying Superman overall, and look forward to reading the adventures of my all time favorite superhero each month again after a lengthy break from the book. I just wish that issues like these didn't have to be rushed and therefore lack the type of quality that the character deserves.

Still one of the best reads in the rapidly diminishing line of Vertigo Comics publications, Savage Things remains top of the reading pile material.

"The Smokeless Fire" promises to "Be Concluded" next issues. I'm anxious for it to be wrapped up. I'm also anxious to see where The Hellblazer goes next. It's not terrible now, but it can be better than the last few issues have been.

Challenges abound for the Man of Steel currently in the pages of Action Comics, but sometimes a little help from one's friends comes in handy.

Kadrey ties up all the series' loose ends capably, albeit if too quickly. That's to be expected though since he had only 32 pages to tie up the events that had unfolded over the course of the last 18 issues. He manages to leave all of the characters intact, except for The Presence (that's also a pun as you'll figure out after you read this final issue).

Action Comics remains a strong and engaging DC Comics Rebirth book. Jurgens continues to reinvigorate the character. It's not often that the same writer gets to pop culturally orchestrate the rebirth of a character twice in their career.

It's been a year now since DC Comics' Rebirth launched. It has yet to disappoint in any major way and remains a vast improvement over The New 52. With the Kent Family's stint in Hamilton wrapped up tidily, their return to Metropolis will herald a new chapter in the Superman Rebirth saga. Judging by where we've been with this title, where we're going looks pretty bright.

I'm really enjoying how Gene Luen Yang is deepening the metaphysical elements of the characters while tying them into Chinese mythology, much like most western superheroes are tied to a western mythology (think Wonder Woman/Princess Diana and the ancient Greek gods). New Super-Man remains a great read, and somehow gets even better each month.

Halfway through the series and Savage Things is keeping my interest, and still freaking me out. I can't ask for anything more.

I'm still completely enjoying the current Superman renaissance that DC Comics' Rebirth initiative has created. What else is there to say? Read Superman.

Maguire and Miner promise "Punchin' Nazis, Sinkin' Boats, Creatin' Gods, and a New Monster So Foul It'll Shock the Senses!" in the next issue. Honestly Maguire and Miner had me at "Punchin' Nazis," but I can't wait to see what kinda Gods (and grossness) these two come up with next.

Overall, the story line here in The Hellblazer remains interesting and reminds me more of the glory days of the comic and character than any series starring Constantine since the launch of The New 52, but it still hasn't lived up to them yet. Perhaps, the total aversion of DC Comics to political themes in their books is the main reason. Constantine was always a punk, and reveled in punk politics. Unfortunately, those days seem long gone. Why can't DC Comics give fans of the character what they are used to and want? I understand that they want to make their characters as appealing, therefore as profitable, to as many people as possible. Did they ever think though that there's a whole reading population out there who actually liked the political Constantine stories...and that they'll pay for them?

Another good read from the DC Comics Rebirth line, Green Arrow is heading in interesting directions without sacrificing the super hero esthetic.

Okay, maybe that's a bridge too far in my argument for the need for regular and well written and drawn Eternal Warrior series like Wrath of The Eternal Warrior and Eternal Warrior Awakening, but somehow I don't think so. I anxiously await Gilad's next appearance.

New Super-Man continues to impress and is one of DC Comics' best regular mainstream superhero reads.

Regardless of how Supergirl looks, this is still the best rendering of the character we've had in about a decade or so.

Savage Things is a great read. Simple and direct, yet filled with nuance and horror of a totally different type. I haven't been this creeped out by a realistic psychological horror made viscerally violent through its imagery since the late Jonathan Demme's The Silence of The Lambs.

I'm still overjoyed that my not Post Crisis Superman is still alive and kicking even if he isn't the Post Crisis Superman although he has all the memories of the post Crisis Superman as well as his maturity and spirit mixed with the New 52 Superman's stint in the New 52 armored costume...okay, I'll stop before I ruin it... Just read Superman, if you're a fan of his adventures when they were done right, you'll like the direction they are heading in now.

The Hellblazer continues to move along slowly, but surely, seriously re-capturing some of the original pace and spirit of the original series. I just hope in this age of short attention spans the readership appreciates the slow burn.

The last page of this issue promises some fireworks next issue between Lucifer and some of his estranged family. "Next: Forms of Fire" seems more than apropos for next issue's title. Lucifer remains a solid read each month.

One DC Comics' Rebirth line's best kept secrets, New Super-Man should be at the top of your monthly reading pile.

Horrifying, brilliant, and action packed, Savage Things is the best Vertigo Comics mini-series right now. I can't wait for the movie...it's inevitable because it's that good.

I hope that Gleason and Tomasi stay assigned to Superman for a long run. With Jurgens heading up the story over in Action Comics, and proving why he was the best Superman scribe of the past 25 years, both titles are primed to deliver the type of storytelling that long term, and new, Superman fans have been craving. Thanks to all of the creators mentioned, as well as DC Comics in total for giving me back my favorite superhero...again.

A fun read, but one you'll most likely forget after reading it, Adam Strange/Future Quest does make you aware of these characters and franchises. It's the artwork makes you want to see them again though, but only if drawn by Lieber.

Still a beautiful under Philip Tan's artistic vision, The Hellblazer remains a solid read, but the the lack of snarky punk attitude, and yes, the politics that go along with it, keeps this series from rising to the heights of it originator.

Striking, startling, and beautifully brilliant and tight from its first panel to it's last page, Savage Things #1 is a top of the monthly reading stack book.

Just when the series was beginning to win me over, it loses me again. Seeley gets an A for effort, but an F for execution. There's one more chapter to this story though, and I am anxious to see how Seeley winds it all up...stylistically, not narratively. When you aren't inspired to come back for the narrative, but out of curiosity as to how a mess can be wrapped up neatly, that's not a good reason for coming back.

Lucifer still remains one of the best of the Vertigo Comic's line of books and is well worth the read.

Still a top of the pile read as far as the DC Comics' Rebirth line of books are considered, New Super-Man remains one of DC Comic's best.

Just when it looks like New Super-Man can't get any better, an issue like this comes along and it does. Kudos to DC Comics for taking a chance on a book that I myself thought wouldn't last but a few issues and be no where near as interesting and engaging as it has turned out to be.

Frostbite is a great Vertigo Comics series. Hopefully, Jason Shawn Alexander will land another gig with Vertigo. His artwork deserves the wider audience.

How many ways can I say it? I'm loving this new Superman series, and you will too. It's also great to see some of the mysteries around Superman's presence in the Post-Flashpoint Universe begin to be addressed. Superman Annual #1 strongly sets the stage for the next year of Superman stories from Tomasi and Gleason.

The closest John Constantine, as a character and franchise, has gotten to the original series, here's hoping Oliver and Moritat's run last a good long time.

Gleason and Tomasi keep the fun and adventure at a high level in Superman. As a long term Superman reader, who admittedly took a break while The New 52 Superman was the lead in the books, I'm enjoying this title more than I have since the early 90s. Let's hope DC Comics finds a way to keep the character, and this series, where it and he should be: at the top.

Frostbite still remains one of the best new limited series from Vertigo Comics currently running. It's definitely a top of the pile read.

Lucifer moves into the post set up stage of Black's smart take on the character, and the devil's future never looked brighter.

DC Comics' Rebirth keeps rolling along and Superman is quickly becoming a jewel in the crown of the new line of titles. It's no longer great just because the best incarnation of Superman is back. It's great because Tomasi and Gleason are telling some of the best Superman stories in decades.

Yes, I'm comparing Jason Shawn Alexanders' art to George Millers visually stunning direction. Frostbite is that good visually. I for one can't wait until the next issue.

New Super-Man still remains a surprisingly good read out a batch of good reads launched out of DC Comics' Rebirth initiative.

Under the creative direction of Holly Black and Lee Garbett, Lucifer continues to be one of the best Vertigo Comics being published right now, and definitely worth the monthly read.

It will be interesting to see how DC Comics reintroduces the mystery characters alluded to at the end of this issue in Superman #9. Their presence in the new Rebirth DCU will be fun story to read.

The Lost Boys #1, the latest attempt by Vertigo Comics to capitalize on a popular film property, is interesting enough to want me to check it out next month, but it will have to pick up the pace quick if I'm going to recommend interest in the book to continue.

It's great to see Vertigo attracting some of the hot new talent that is working on with the smaller (if you consider Image Comics small) publishers. I'm overjoyed to see that Jason Shawn Alexander's work is gaining the recognition, and wider audience, it deserves. Frostbite is definitely worth the read, and while your at it, pick up Empty Zone as well.

I am still loving the return of the Post-Crisis Superman to the DCU. The Superman family of titles are fun and exciting reads once again. Let's hope that DC Comics keeps this new take on the old Superman the hard and fast status quo.

With the addition of many new players on the scene, both the Great Ten and The Freedom Fighters of China, and all the allegorical goodness (as well as super powered super heroic action and adventure) that should follow, DC Comics' most interesting Rebirth title, New Super-Man, should stay a great and interesting reading.

Where Fables succeeded so spectacularly though was in its ability to tell a smart and literary story of the type that so many Vertigo series over the years managed to without resorting to gratuitous violence (at least in every issue). Everafter reads more like an action/horror comic than it does a profound exploration of the types of themes that Fables often delved into. This is only the first issue though, so there is plenty of time to develop deep characters and stories as the series progresses, so no need to worry after just one issue, if that's the kind of story you are looking for. Sometimes it's necessary to splash a little action across the page to get the average reader's attention, then trick them into reading something enlightening. With the guest appearances of both Bigby and Snow, as well as the addition of their son Connor as a main character, the tradition of interesting and substantial character develop is definitely possible.

Maybe I'm too excited over the recent developments with Superman at DC Comics during Rebirth. Maybe I'm just a long term Post-Crisis Superman fanboy who longs for the fun and inspiring Post-Crisis Superman stories of his youth. Maybe I just don't care if I am. This is what Superman should be. I'm back on board as a reader, and a fan, for the long run.

With Van Lente and Protela's Generation Zero, Valiant has yet another hit on their hands. It's wonderful to see the Valiant Universe 2.0 continue to expand and introduce new series based on new characters. Valiant is firing on all cylinders right now with both old characters like Eternal Warrior and new ones like Generation Zero and Divinity. The Future of Valiant is here, and based upon Generation Zero's first issue alone, it appears to be a bright one indeed.

While I personally don't think that the grandeur of storytelling and literary, social, and political heft of the original series will ever be achieved again in a Constantine starring book, The Hellblazer looks to be perhaps the closest we will get to the glory that was Vertigo's Hellblazer.

Wrath of The Eternal Warrior is a complete work of art from its story telling to its imagery, and is worthy of being on the top of your reading stack every month, including your Valiant Entertainment reading stack of books. Finally, long suffering Gilad Anni-Padda fans are truly getting the book that not only they deserve, but Gilad himself deserves to star in.

Smart mainstream superhero comics are rarely this good...and intellectually artistic. Thank you DC Comics for bringing back my Superman with Rebirth, and telling morally relevant and inspiring stories with him in these turbulent political times.

DC Comics' most interesting Rebirth title, New Super-Man is a must read. It's good to see that DC Comics isn't afraid to take chances on smart storytelling again.

It's Superman...and Son...and Wife...and all is right with the world.

Still the best written and most worthy of the time investment three issues of a Superman comic book published since before the launch of The New 52, Superman will stay on my pull list.

After experiencing complete and utter disinterest in the whole DC Comics Rebirth concept behind New Super-Man #1 when it was announced, I am now totally hooked. Bring on the Chinese Justice League.

While I'm still waiting for Soule to really weave a masterful tale of courtroom drama bolstered with super heroics, Daredevil/The Punisher will have to suffice. Please Mr. Soule, I'm sure I'm speaking for many Daredevil fans when I ask: please bring us that smart legal drama that I know you are capable of and take Daredevil the series to the next level. I'm waiting patiently.

I'm reading Superman comics again since just after the initial launch of the New 52 with its poor re-imagining of the character, so thus far score this new Superman series as a win for DC Comics. It really has stirred a rebirth in my interest in my overall favorite individual superhero.

The Verdict: It's Post-Crisis Superman going though rebirth pains in the new legacy renumbered Action Comics...so 'nuff said...for now...still...

If the return of the Post-Crisis Superman turns out to be yet another marketing ploy, meant to only last one business quarter (or two) before fading back into the complicated mists that DC Comics continuity has rapidly become, they might lose this Superman fan forever, not to mention more than a few others. Superman #1 does breathe new life into a franchise that was gasping for a new lease on life though. Bring on the Rebirth, for now.

Terry Moore's Rachel Rising is going to be sorely missed. The only solace we admirers of the series and Terry Moore's work have is that we will hopefully see something new from him soon.

I'm on board with this new Lucifer series, for now. I just hope he doesn't turn into the grinning do-gooder of the series, or worse yet, rent out his services to the LAPD in the coming issues to solve crimes. There's enough supernatural crime-solver series out there. While the Lucifer of the TV series might be interested in getting physical above all else, here's hoping Black's Lucifer decides to get metaphysical instead.

The Verdict: While I'm pretty much as done with Marvel Comics as I am with DC Comics now that the 616 Universe is dead, I'm going to stick around and check out these new adventures of Doctor Strange, mostly because I'm a Jason Aaron junkie, but partly because there hasn't been an interesting (or any interest on behalf of Marvel Comics in) Doctor Strange and I'd like to see where this goes.

The Tomorrows shares some themes with another brilliant work currently being published, Greg Rucka's Lazarus, but The Tomorrows is filled with more sci-fi whimsy and way more snarky. When paired with Lazarus though, The Tomorrows makes for just as smart a read, albeit a slightly more lighthearted and hopeful one. Lazarus is the best written book being published now, and The Tomorrows has the same potential that Lazarus did when it was launched.

The Verdict: Fans of smart music commentary and criticism (which IS actually a pretty serious thing to some) and great supernatural thrillers will love Phonogram, but that's rather un-ironically obvious...don't you think?

The Verdict: Paul Cornell and Tony Parker's This Damned Band is a must read for fans of great comic books as well as great music. Packed with self referencing easter eggs, humor and history that prove that they are not only great writers and artists, but great rock music fans, This Damned Band is looking to be one of the best rock n' roll comics ever.

Harrow County by Cullen Bunn and Tyler Crook is available May 13th 2015 and is available for pre-order.

An interesting take on the little green men story that doubles as a metaphor for a coming of age story. Overall, interesting enough to warrant further reading. I'll be looking forward to issue #2.

For those looking for an intelligent read on the level of many of Brian Wood's DMZ or Greg Rucka's superb Lazarus, Invisible Republic is for you. Joining the long list of other great Image books being published right now like Nameless, Chrononauts, Descender, and Southern Cross, Invisible Republic looks like another classic in the making.

The Verdict: Nameless has all the potential to be not only Morrison's best work since The Invisibles, but perhaps his best work ever. This is a series that needs to be read.

Archie Comics have really been churning out the hits recently and if the rest of their new line of superhero comics is anything near the quality of The Black Hood #1, then not only will be some of the best reads, they will be some of the most successful as well.

The Verdict: Anything Kieron Gillen writes I'll read. I will especially read his take on Darth Vader, all the more so since it isn't a flattering glorification of evil...at least through issue #1.

Between The Valiant and the first issue of Ivar, Timewalker, Valiant Comics have finally, and truly, mined the worth out of the Anni-Padda family of characters. These are books that shouldn't be missed, and must be read. They are that good.

Definitely worth checking out issue 2, but the plot has to get better soon. Simone's obvious wit does shine through though, and that makes Conan and Red Sonja worth a look all on its own.

Is it possible to be the biggest comic book/superhero/mega-corporate owned entertainment company and still be the best comic book publisher in the game? Even when everything is planned, marketed, and released to the most strictest of marketing directives? (Ant-Man #1 was published the morning after the Ant-Man trailer debuted, during another Marvel TV show, which runs the night before new comics are released weekly-damn, Marvel/Disney has this marketing thing down don't they?) The answer is, scarily, yes. As long as books like Ant-Man #1 keep getting published by said mega-corporate owned, multi-media platformed company. Make Mine Marvel now more than ever.

The Valiant is the must read of the year from Valiant. Armor Wars was fun, but this is going to be awesome in the classical sense.

Punk Mambo #0 is a solid story and a beautiful work of art, as well as something fresh and new to current Valiant readers. It flushes out a whole new part of the world, pretty much left untouched until now, in the Valiant Universe 2.0. Unfortunately, for long termed Peter Milligan readers, it feels like a tale twice (or more) told, is nothing new, and fails to move Milligan's legacy along.

Toe Tag Riot #1 is fun, inspiring, a little grimy, and riotously loud, just like the music and individuals (fictional and real) that inspired it.

All Hallow's Eve #1 is definitely a story for the season, but can be honored in the hearts of those truly dedicated to the spirit of Halloween all year round. It's that creepy, and good.

One of the most hyped books of the Fall of 2014, Wytches #1 lives up to it's promise and more. This is a must read. Period.

Another horror/historical fiction book from Cullen Bunn published by Oni Press. At this point, do I really need to tell you anything else to convince you to check it out?

More than a marketing gimmick (albeit a marketing ploy no doubt) this temporary (however long) replacement of Thor Odinson with Thor The Goddess of Thunder is going to be, like most of Jason Aaron's works are, the must read of Fall 2014 and beyond from Marvel Comics.

It would be a huge waste to spoil the direction Aaron is taking Southern Bastards as far as the story will be going (and just who will be the series' protagonist), so I highly recommend that you go out and get the first collected trade paperback on sale tomorrow (Oct 1st 2014). You won't be disappointed. Southern Bastards is shaping up to be THE must read of 2014...and beyond, and that's nothing less than we'd expect from the team of Aaron and Latour.

Prometheus Fire and Stone #1 was one of the books I was most looking forward to this Fall, and now it's bordering on becoming my biggest letdown book of the Fall. Prometheus Fire and Stone #1 is heavy on the set up, light on the delivery, and has the potential to devolve into another xenomorph driven gore-fest. The Prometheus branch of the Alien franchise has such potential to be so great, especially because its heavier subject matter, but heavier subject matter just doesn't sell as well as gore...and that's a damn shame.

Southern Dog #1 is one of the most interesting reads to come along in the form of a mainstream comic book in quite some time. While it is a loaded book, it is smartly loaded. Will it join the ranks of the most important sequential art works of the past few decades? Maybe. Maybe not. What it will do though is get you talking while leaving you wanting more.

The Verdict Amazing Spider-Man sets the stage for the next mega Spidey Crossover, and will most likely keep the kids happy with the teen romance. Spider-Verse is coming, but honestly, I'm more excited about the return of Jessica Drew to her own ongoing book than the debut of a new Spider-Girl-Like character. Jessica Drew. Now there's a complicated, and hot, (Spider) Woman who really packs the pheromones.

While I'm still not happy with the fact that it appears that what should be the flagship ongoing titles of the Valiant Universe are now reduced to a string of mini-series (well, at least we are getting a new Eternal Warrior mini-series out of the deal), Harbinger Omegas #1 is one of the best first issues of ANYTHING that Valiant Comics has released...well...ever.

Overall, MonoMyth is a fantastic offering from a smaller publisher that will appeal to anyone interested in dark fantasy with strong characterization. Notwithstanding the lengthy competition segment in the middle of the book, MonoMyth #1 is a smart work that is visually and esthetically pleasing. OSSM Comics, Donnelly, and Ninaltowski definitely have a potentially large hit on their hands here.

Just as it has been from its beginning, Archer and Armstrong remains every month's top of the stack reads...and rightly so. If the newly announced Archer and Armstrong film is nearly half as good as Van Lente's stories here...it will be more than worth the wait.

Overall, The Devilers has all the makings of an engaging long term read. For those of you looking for something a little different, and maybe a little smarter, The Devilers might be for you.

The First Hero looks like it can be a breakout hit for Action Lab with it's smart and tight storytelling mixed with a little of that historical revisionism/reinvention that is all the rage these days (see X-Men First Class and X-Men Days of Future Past). The First Hero might borrow heavily from the X-Men and Watchmen universe of ideas, but is looking to strike out on its own...and I for one want to see where this story will go because of that single fact.

So while Jason Aaron's time as an X-Scribe appears to be truly over, Amazing X-Men appears to be in solid, if somewhat nostalgia based, hands going forward with Kyle and Yost at the helm. At least we're sure to get some fun retreads of old stories and plots with an updated look and feel.

Overall, Nightcrawler looks to be a worthy read focused solely on this beloved character. It's been a while since X-Fans have had the pleasure of reading new Nightcrawler exploits AND Claremont X-Men stories, so enjoy Nightcrawler while it lasts.

Moon Knight has always been an interesting character, even if he's been derided as the "Batman rip-off of the Marvel U." In Ellis' hands though, Moon Knight isn't just an interesting character, he's an essential one.

Readers, like myself, will probably stick around (at least intermittently) to see if there ever will be a peaceful resolution to Rick and company's story. There probably won't be, but like Rick the majority of us just can't let go of the dream of human decency, even in a highly indecent work of art.

So while The Amazing Spider-Man (2014) #1 DOES give it's long term readers props by continuing the story from Superior Spider-Man without missing a beat, something that DC Comics failed to do miserably with Superman after The New 52 launch which caused readers to leave in droves, it is weighted down WAY too heavily with marketing scheme inclusion stories. Still, I gotta say Make Mine Marvel for the props they do pay their long term readers.

There aren't enough books like Rachel Rising on the market these days. Thankfully, Rachel Rising itself hasn't reached its end and Moore has more to tell and draw concerning Rachel and her group.

Unfortunately, the stories that I am looking for from Eternal Warrior, and was thoroughly enjoying in Harbinger are either going away or currently non-existent. For the first time I am feeling a little bit letdown from the publisher that I've been enjoying so much over the past few years, and afraid for my future relationship with it.

So is is time for The Walking Dead the comic book to begin to wind down and get ready to roll off into the zombie splattered sunset? Probably. It's still a major cash cow for Image Comics though, so I don't think the series will wind down anytime soon, with or without Rick Grimes.

Valiant Comics continues to create some of the most interesting, well thought out, and intelligent comics being published today. What is so scary though is that it feels like their best is still yet to come.

We haven't really been treated to a comic book version of Magneto that bared any serious resemblance to the newer silver screen incarnation of the character, but thanks to Bunn and Walta, the semi-street level Magneto is here, and I say the Marvel U is better for it.

As is the case with most of Valiant Comics' titles, Unity continues to deliver great action and story on a grand scale. It's another must read in a string of must reads from Valiant.

Titles like Soule and Pulido's She-Hulk, along with Waid and Samnee's Daredevil remind me of the fun days of my youth when I could pick a Marvel Comics title off the shelves and escape from my daily troubles for a fun half hour of reading that still left me feeling grounded in the "the world outside my window." Fun, funny, action packed, intelligent, witty, and an all around great read: this is what She-Hulk is, and what Marvel Comics used to be known for doing best. Perhaps with more titles like this, they will be again.

I'm intrigued by "Eternal Emperor." Is this going to set the stage for how the Valiant 2.0 U's future is going to be portrayed as canon? Or is Gilad going to realize that his murder of the gods didn't accomplish his goals and instead provide him with a reason to change his actions and and become the Fist and Steel again (perhaps through some time travel?)? I have no idea, but I'm definitely going to stick around and find out.

Overall, I hope that this crossover between The X-Men and The Guardians of The Galaxy really helps boost interest in the upcoming film, but more importantly gives Bendis a plot convention to help make this latest "Trial of Jean Grey" storyline interesting. Again, putting aside the laughable attempts at making All New X-Men 022.Now The Trial of Jean Grey #1 appealing to speculators, this whole thing feels a little too familiar. Hopefully, Bendis will find a way to surprise us with something new.

Almost assuredly to become yet another big hit in the short lived lifespan of "ongoing series" these days from Marvel Comics (seems like every series gets a reboot within a few years of their "ongoing" status since issue #1s just sell way better than issue #25s), Avengers World will undoubtedly bring the action. Whether it will bring interesting characterization (or stories) remains to be seen.

A team book unlike any other, Unity is one of Valiant's most interesting and complex books yet. It really is a must read for fans of realistic and smart superhero comics.

Kindt, Braithwait and the rest of the artistic teams at Valiant Entertainment continue to deliver some of the most compelling sci-fi/superhero/supernatural comics on the market and Unity is quickly becoming the centerpiece of the whole bunch.

Legenderry #1 has the look and feel of the best DC Comics' Elseworlds stories of yesteryear (you know...the days when DC Comics' comics were compelling). I'm glad to see that the spirit still exists out there amongst the mainstream superhero publishers. Legenderry definitely looks like it just might fill the Elseworlds void, and take it to a new level.

"Frost," despite whatever editorial errors are present in it, is the type of comic book storytelling that we should certainly have more of. "Frost" is touching, elemental, and powerful. Morrell himself may or may not be engaging in comic book writing again any time soon, but I for one desperately hope that he does.

I'm intrigued by this new take on the Inhumans franchise, and especially what it means for the cinematic Marvel U, but hopefully it will take a different direction than Marvel's mutant books take. There is such a thing as too much of a good thing...

Archie Comics has shown that Archie and the Riverdale Gang's stories can actually be cool, much to my surprise, and now they've proven they can be scary too. Afterlife With Archie is one of those rare zombie fictions that is worth checking out (beyond the now uber famous The Walking Dead). Afterlife With Archie might not end up being as good as The Walking Dead is, but so far it's at least as interesting.

The type of story that leaves the reader wanting more Polar: Came From The Cold is another worthy entry in the already highly critical and commercial success that is Dark Horse Comics' already massive catalog.

Easily another hit in the making for Marvel Comics, Jason Aaron and Ed McGuinness' Amazing X-Men looks to be a fun ride for X-Fans everywhere. Personally, I'm even more glad to see Aaron writing yet another Marvel Comics' book. In my opinion he's the Scott Snyder of the Marvel Bullpen. Smart, just edgy enough, (when he's allowed to be), and a consummate storyteller. He should be writing even more Marvel books.

A cross between The Killing, American Horror Story, and good ole' Stephen King-like New England horror, Coffin Hill just might be the new long term hit that Vertigo Comics has been looking for.

The war has begun, and there will be blood. Unity has arrived. This is one series launch that you shouldn't miss.

Still one of the most interesting and dynamic characters ever to emerge from the Valiant U, Gilad Anni-Padda's adventures in Eternal Warrior are a must read.

Where Vertigo has been concerned over the decades though, weird stuff usually translates into interesting stuff. Hinterkind is definitely weird and interesting, but will yet another apocalypse by nature story capture enough attention, and therefore readers, to warrant a long life? Only time will tell.ell.

A must read for fans of 1970s grindhouse, Tarantino films, and well written and drawn comic books for mature readers, Grindhouse Doors Open at Midnight is not to be missed.

Hickman has given me (and many others) many, many hours of highly fulfilling stories to read over the years in the many, many titles and issues he's written. I just am not convinced that God Is Dead is going to be another one of these type of books from Hickman. Hopefully, issue #2 will prove me wrong.

Recent X-Men crossover events have been nothing to get too excited about. Schism was pretty good. Avengers vs. X-Men wasn't. Battle of the Atom, based on the merits of the open chapter, is loaded with potential, and just might top them both.

The first of the new Valiant titles is still one of its best and shows no signs of slowing down.

So while Aaron has wrapped up his opening salvo in his run on Thor God of Thunder, it appears he isn't finished putting Thor through the ringer yet, as in the next issue "Thor returns to Midgard" and is "Earthbound and Down." I personally can't wait to see what Aaron and Ribic have in store for us next.

Bloodshot #0 is another in a long line of some of the highest quality, in terms of art and storytelling, superhero books currently being published by any comic book publisher. I keep waiting for Valiant to falter and deliver a dud. I'm overjoyed (if not surprised) to report that we haven't seen one yet.

For what could be a cool concept, Vampirella Southern Gothic #1 shows plenty of potential, but little payoff.

It sure has taken them long enough, but the powers that be at DC Comics are finally inching their weakest incarnation of their longest lived superhero towards being interesting. The New 52 Superman will most likely always struggle to garner a following, especially as long as he's in a relationship with Wonder Woman and not Lois Lane, but at least there will be a few current comic books starring him that will be worth checking out. Based upon the merits of issue #1, Greg Pak's Batman/Superman will be one of them.

While the artists and writers on Superman and Action Comics are highly talented individuals, they just can't seem to get me invested in this new Superman or keep me interested in buying his books. Granted this is most likely the case because of the horrible editorial decisions by DC Comics that ruined Superman's longstanding mythos (i.e. the one built up in the Post-Crisis years) and not because of their writing ability. Snyder and Lee though have not only got me interested and invested in their version of The New 52 Superman, they have almost completely sold me on it.

With enough action, mystery, pretty girls, and gory events to stoke the horror and action fan in you, Screwed is one hell of a ride worth taking.

Overall, Arcane Awakening is a great first read from a first time publisher. I recommend that you get on the ground floor of this new project and pick yourself up a copy of Arcane Awakening Book One before it becomes a sold out and hard to find collectible.

Overall, Wolverine Season One is a standout edition of a really great string of books that tell contemporized origin stories of some of Marvel Comics' biggest characters. Each volume of Season One that Marvel Comics produces makes me look forward to the next one, especially when they are as high quality as Wolverine Season One is.

Rucka promises that Lazarus is a finite story that will take several years to tell. Based upon the strength of this first issue though, however long Lazarus lasts, (and as long as Rucka and Lark remain its creators) it won't last nearly long enough.

Miss Fury has steadily improved over the past few issues and it seems like Dynamite Comics is finally realizing that while it's perfectly fine to draw an incredibly hot Marla Drake/Miss Fury character, she doesn't have to run around naked all the time for Miss Fury to be a comic book worth reading. Great job guys. Keep it up.

I don't know if Snyder's singular talents will be enough to make this new Superman interesting and well developed enough to right the Superman franchise of comic books at DC Comics, but with the new Man of Steel (2013) film doing well at the box office and re-igniting interest in the character, DC Comics better get on the ball. If anyone can right the Superman ship though, it is Scott Snyder, and I will definitely be back for each issue of Superman Unchained as long as he's writing it.

So, while one era has come to an end with Geoff Johns' departure from Green Lantern, a glorious new one has begun. Instead of being a jumping off point for readers of Green Lantern though, Green Lantern #21 is not only an excellent jumping on point, but a great example of why long term Lantern fans will remain long term Lantern fans for years to come.

Adventures of Superman (2013) #1 is three stories that focus on Superman's heroism, inspiring persona, and selflessness instead of his isolation, angst, make out sessions with Wonder Woman, and seemingly unrelated strings of events. What is the world of Superman comics coming to? Hopefully its senses.

While not outstandingly original, Snyder and Murphy's The Wake is outstandingly beautiful, mysterious, and (most importantly for Vertigo Comics) worth returning to. It is something that fans of Snyder, Murphy, and Vertigo Comics have been looking for. We are only on issue #1 of The Wake and I'm already looking forward to their next, post-The Wake collaboration for (hopefully) Vertigo Comics.

X-Men (2013), based on the merits of its first issue, is looking to be the must read X-Book of the year.

There's plenty of great comics, stories, and artwork being put out there by the good folks at Marvel Comics these days, and Indestructible Hulk is one of the best of the lot.

Another masterful entrance into the already amazing library of new Valiant books and titles, Shadowman #0 is another one that will stand the test of time as a work of sequential art, and be heralded as one of the most important issues of the new Valiant U.

So as Jason Aaron and Esad Ribic have shown us again, great characters in the hands of great writers and artists can really lead to some stunning art, and Thor God of Thunder is one hell of a great work of art.

While I still prefer Katee Sackhoff's Starbuck to Dirk Benedict's any day of the week, Abnet and Lanning's Battlestar Galactica looks like it will be a worthy entry into the space epic's long and storied history.

Overall, Robyn remains is one of Zenescope's most interesting female protagonists out of a host of interesting female leads in their comics. Her story looks to remain as interesting, and at times heart wrenching, in Wanted as it did in her first series, and Robyn's fans wouldn't have it any other way.

Another great read from the best new publisher to emerge in years...again...Archer & Armstrong is a must read for Valiant fanatics and fans of great comics alike.

I'll stick with this book just to see if it gets better since I like the character so much, but it has to improve...and fast.

Definitely worth reading more of, but also quickly worth dropping like a hot potato if the narrative doesn't streamline better over the next few issues, Miss Fury is another worthwhile updating of a forgotten Golden Age character from Dynamite.

As interesting as anything McKeever has done in the past, and a steal at $3.99 (especially given its oversized format), Ted McKeever's Miniature Jesus will go down as more than just a cult classic.

A perfect, and smart, way to introduce legions of legendary horror icons (vampires, zombies, werewolves, demons, etc) into the main fabric of the Grimm Fairy Tale's U, Unleashed looks to be the must read of the summer for horror/dark fantasy fans, as well as for fans of well written comic books that showcase strong female characters. This one has me hooked...

Overall, Taylor proves once again that he is a man of talents, a jack of all trades if you will. House of Gold and Bones #1 is like most of Stonesour's music. Good, and fun to read/listen too, but not very groundbreaking. It is honest and direct though, and therein lies its merit.

Overall, X #0 is a fitting return to solo issue status of one of Dark Horse Comics' legendary original heroes. Along with Ghost, X is going to help Dark Horse Comics up the ante on quality superhero comics. I for one can't wait for more...

Finally, a publisher delivers an action packed, character driven, commentary laden, and all around brilliant and multifaceted crossover event that will appeal to a wide range of readers. Thank you Valiant Entertainment for making crossovers not only fun to read again, but worth reading again.

A great way to introduce two of the Grimm's Fairy Tales Universe's most popular to each other, Robyn Hood vs. Red Riding Hood is not only a fun read, it's an engaging one that leaves the reading looking for more team ups between the two.

If Manhattan Projects has kind of ground down to a halt for you with its plodding pacing (except for its slight revival last issue), then the more grounded and streamlined narrative of East of West is what you've been praying for. It's Hickman being his best Hickman while hitting on all cylinders and charging full speed ahead.

Still a great read nine issue in, All New X-Men is one of those rare X-titles that rises above the masses of mutant books from Marvel Comics in the quality department. It is truly worth the read.

The strange trip that has been Manhattan Projects continues, and it's one of those rare trips that you should be taking monthly with Hickman.

Realism over fantasy dominates in Wood's Conan the Barbarian, and the barbarian has never been been better portrayed because of this. Here's to hundreds of issues of Conan the Barbarian under Wood's direction.

Overall, Harbinger remains one of the best monthly comics published. If you aren't reading this book then you are missing out on superhero tales done, not only right, but brilliantly.

The times are a' changin' rapidly in the mainstream sequential art business world. Marvel Comics was perfectly fine with there only being one printed comic book titled Uncanny X-Men #1 (1963) for nearly 50 years, even if it wasn't technically called "Uncanny X-Men." Now, we've had had two Uncanny X-Men #1s alone in the past two years. Looks like the legacy of the long numbered book is gone. I can live with that, but only if the new #1s are worth the read. Uncanny X-Men #1 isn't. Hopefully it will improve. Given his track record, odds are it will with Bendis at the helm...hopefully.

Andy Diggle and JOCK work better together than any other team in mainstream sequential art, outside of Brian Wood and Becky Cloonan. Just about every work the two collaborate on turns out to be a great read. Snapshot looks to be yet another. Will Snapshot inspire a big screen adaptation much like their The Losers did? Time will tell, but it definitely has the potential to.

Archer and Armstrong isn't just the creme of the new Valiant crop of books...it's the creme of the crop of all mainstream superhero comics right now, and it just keeps getting better with each issue.

Some of Garth Ennis' works are really out there, graphically violent, and sometimes petulantly vitrolic, (all of which can be immensely engaging and cool), but Red Team is Ennis at his most realistic and morally ambiguous best. If Red Team #1 is any indication of the types of works we can expect from Dynamite Entertainment's crime line, they can't publish them fast enough.

There are very few mainstream superhero comics on the market today that are as powerfully written and drawn as the Valiant books are, and Dysart's Harbinger is one of their best...and it just keeps getting better.

A good ole' fashioned, yet frightfully fresh, read, Vampirella Strikes #2 simply leaves us thirsty for more...and thankfully there is more to come.

Well...Savage Wolverine will undoubtedly be a huge seller and make Marvel Comics, and its parent company Disney, lots and lots of money...just not off of me.

When all the Before Watchmen series are completed, Minutemen will be the one that stands the artist test of time the strongest. Even though many of the Before Watchmen series ended up being way better than expected, Minutemen was a cut above.

As was the case nearly 20 years ago, Valiant Comics are some of the best on the racks...and Archer & Armstrong is leading the pack once again.

After nearly 20 years, Emily the Strange, the strange multimedia icon, continues to roll strongly on. Emily and the Strangers just might (thankfully) be the first really new look into the character/meme we've had in a long time though.

A great book amongst a host of great books currently being published by Valiant Comics, Bloodshot is a must read, especially with Harbinger Wars (which will be a must read itself for Valiant fans as well as fans of great comics) on the horizon!

Finally, a readable version of a vampire(-like) superhero comic book comes amongst us. This will be one to watch this year.

I really feel the need to comment more on this series, it was so thought provoking and provocative, and I most likely will be here at ComicBookBin, but more than that, I feel the need to read more about Chris, McKael, and his crew, but alas it's all over now. Here's to looking forward to the trade and all the goodies that it might contain.

The last time I read something set in this time period with the type of grainy, newsprint-like, and action/mystery packed feel to it was when I re-read a reprint of Detective Comics (1939) #27. Everything about this issue, from its stylish 399cent (as in $3.99) cover price to its uneven and blocky logo, The Black Beetle drips pulp fiction. This is going to be the must read of 2013.

Ever since breaking free of DC Comics, Brian Wood's name has been popping up on comic book covers everywhere. With Mara, Wood looks to add another thought provoking hit to his long list of brilliant stories.

While I still cannot get into this new characterization of Superman and his "family," I still hold out hope that this coming summer's Man of Steel feature film will finally convince DC Comics to put the effort into Superman's comic book titles that they are finally putting into Batman's as far as quality storytelling goes.

Easily one of the year's best debut issues, The Black Beetle #0 is opening salvo of what looks to be one of the best ongoing series of its kind.

As quite possibly the biggest Eternal Warrior fan around, I'm overjoyed at the return of one of my favorite comic book characters of all time to the printed page, even though I'm a little disappointed at how one dimensionally he's portrayed during his re-introduction. There's plenty of time for character development later though when he gets his own series (HINT HINT Valiant!). Regardless of The Eternal Warrior's eventual future, Archer & Armstrong remains one of the most fun, action packed, and best reads being published right now.

If you're looking for something a little different this year from the usual Christmas fairy tale fare, Grimm Fairy Tales 2012 Holiday Edition is right up your alley.

Not nearly as bad as I expected, especially for a introductory type of first issue, FF #1 definitely has potential. I hope it lives up to it.

One of the most interesting and best 1990s hero revivals (outside of the excellent new Valiant Comics books) Ghost is a must read.

I'm going to have to see more of what Remender has cooked up long term for Captain America as a character and series. So far I'm going to have to reserve judgment. All I can say is that Captain America #1 pales in comparison to the other major Marvel Comics' hero whose new series just debuted: Mark Waid's Indestructible Hulk #1. More on that stunning first issue soon...

As smart, sharp, and enjoyable as Kathyrn Immonen's Journey Into Mystery, with Sif as the lead, looks like it is going to be for those of us who love a good literary mental exercise, Journey Into Mystery #646 isn't as strong a debut (or re-imagining) of a female character as Azzarello's New 52 Wonder Woman #1 was, but it's not far behind. Has Marvel Comics finally found a character and writer to elevate one of their female heroes to the plateau that Azzarello has elevated DC Comics' Wonder Woman? Time will tell, but Immonen definitely has the writing chops to do so based on what we see here...

While a mature readers title (The Grand Duke does contain some nudity), it is one that should be widely read and enjoyed by anyone who has an interest in World War II history and avionics as well as well written and drawn historical fiction. Highly recommended.

In the new era of Marvel NOW! the Jonathan Hickman penned Fantastic Four is no more. Fraction, if he can pull it off, has the chance to build something brilliant in its own right with the brilliant Mark Bagley along for the ride.

A wonderful and densely packed opening chapter in the new saga of Thor the God of Thunder, Thor God of Thunder #1 is one of the first must reads of the new slew of Marvel NOW! titles hitting the shelves.

Artist Rob Dumo brings Maddox's story to brilliant black and white life. His artwork jumps effortlessly between time frames and eras, and his sense of action, as well as more pensive moments, is top notch. In short, his work is much better than one sees in many independent works.

What was so interesting about the magical elements of the original Valiant U were that they were based and easily defined as a sort of "Earth magic." Geomancers (soon to be making a reappearance in Archer and Armstrong) and evil beings, like the villain reintroduced here, could cross paths with a wide range of Valiant's heroes and not feel out of place, like most magical characters in the Marvel U do. Off to a great start in returning this element of the mysterious and magical to the Valiant U, Shadowman #1 not only brings this element to excellent life, it demonstrates the range of unified diversity that defines the Valiant Universe.

Off to an solid (but not completely reflective of Gillen's potential) start Iron Man #1 is, hopefully, laying the foundation for years of great Iron Man tales to come in the Marvel NOW! era.

Easily the work that should top most reviewers and smart readers' 2012 Best Of Lists, Rachel Rising is one of those rare titles that comes along only once in a while. You should be reading, and more importantly enjoying, it while it lasts.

Oh well, this is the norm with most of the big properties (unlike Superman for some strange reason-a character that DC Comics has decided to completely ruin recently). Writers come along, get to play with the characters, then have to put them back unbroken and unchanged. At least we got a fun and thrilling adventure each month in the style of the old school X-Men for a while. Thanks Mr. Abnett and Mr. Lanning for giving us at.

A fun read for this time of year, Halloween Eve is more than just that. It is an ultimate expression of one artist's talent. A talent that many of us would sorely love to see more of.

While I hate to see Aaron wrap up yet another great run on yet another great Marvel Comics character, I can look back and savor this series and run for as long as it lasted. At least we got a Jason Aaron Hulk. We might not have, and comics would have been worse for it.

A smarter than average horror read with some of the most interesting characters to show up in a horror comic in some time, Exsanguine is a solid read for fans of the vampire, serial killer, or FBI supernatural crime thriller types of stories. Definitely worth checking out.

A comic book cannot thrive on art alone though, and Superman #13 is just another in a long line of pretty terrible stories about one of the most popular superheroes of all time. One that no one now recognizes.

More than just a cheap capitalization on one of the years most commercial holidays, but not really delivering the deep chills and thrills that more discerning readers might be looking for this time of year, Grimm Fairy Tales' 2012 Halloween Special is a fun, if not incredibly deep, read. Honestly though, that's just what its readers might be looking for anyway.

A frightfully good first issue, arriving just in time for the most fun holiday of the year, Halloween, Grimm Fairy Tales' Sleepy Hollow is another solid offering from Zenescope Entertainment.

Not without a few surprises, Harbinger #5 neatly wraps up the title's first story arc and lays a strong foundation for where Dysart is looking to take this series next. A pivotal issue in the young series' life, Harbinger #5 is not to be missed.

All of Valiant Entertainment's books have been an incredible joy to read for this long suffering Valiant fan, but Archer & Armstrong just might be strongest of the lot (no pun intended!).

It will be interesting to see what direction and what new horrors the 1948 installment of the ongoing story of the B.P.R.D. will go in and bring. While the WWII linked horror is absolutely fascinating and engaging, especially from a history buff's point of view, it will be interesting to see the B.P.R.D. in operation against Cold War threats and terrors this time around.

It's going to take a little more than interesting social commentary to keep this new Green Lantern relevant. There is a great deal of potential here though, and based on his track record, Johns is most likely up to the task of maxing out Simon Baz's tenure as a GL.

I hate that Rucka is about to wrap up his stint on The Punisher by pitting Frank against the rest of the Marvel U in the upcoming, and re-launched, Punisher War Zone #1. I would rather (and could have) read 100 issues of The Punisher written in this vein by Greg Rucka instead. Rucka's The Punisher will be missed, but I'm happy that we got it for at least 16 issues.

Anything that Paul Cornell is currently writing is worth reading, but Demon Knights is that rare genre crossing work that only comes along once in a while, much like a writer of Cornell's ability only does.

After not reading any of the Ultimate Comics line of titles for years, simply because they were so bad, I now cannot wait for next month's installments of not only The Ultimates, but Ultimate Spider-Man, and Ultimate X-Men as well. Welcome back Ultimate Universe.

While I would rather not have had The Spectre's introduction to the New 52 be a subplot of The Phantom Stranger's origin story, I'm nevetheless glad to see that Corrigan/The Spectre is going to be a part of the New 52. A character that isn't quite as popular or well known, like The Spectre, is a character that is perfect for a new writer with new ideas to work with. Maybe DC Comics can revive some of that groundbreaking storytelling that they were so full of at one point with a new take on The Spectre. Only time will tell...

This fan, who still pines for more live action TNG 18 years since TNG went off the air and 10 years since the last TNG movie, is partially sated by Star Trek The Next Generation: Hive. Comic books like this are really about the best things we're going to see out the franchise at this point, beyond the prose novels of course.

Supergirl has been a pretty good book since its re-launch. If only DC Comics would allow the Superman Family titles to act like they should, i.e. a family of books. Superman is the type of character (and franchise) who needs strong supporting characters, and continually keeping Kara from becoming friends with her cousin, and settle down with a secret identity, a job, etc. is beginning to wear on the patience of this (and many other) Superman fans.

A wildly careening and awesomely out of control storyline packed with satire and commentary just got its stakes raised. "Divided We Fall" and the upcoming "United We Stand" are Ultimate Comics storytelling at its best.

One more "round" to go. Can't wait till it's all over and we can get down to the real fun, i.e. watching Marvel Comics re-energize its comic book line and characters without making a mess of most of them (i.e. The New 52)...hopefully.

While United We Stand doesn't look to be much of a writing challenge for Wood to overcome, he's been writing about revolutions against fascists for what seems like forever now, this is X-Men like you've never seen. I couldn't think of anyone else who could write a X-story without any of the major (and most recognizable) characters around and make it this interesting.

I know that I've had my issues with Grant Morrison's run on Action Comics, as well as with his take on Superman, but it has gotten better and better as it has gone along. I'm now actually sad to see him departing the book and character. The only bright spot in the dim parade of poorly written Superman books is about to go out...

Detective Comics #0 is overall disappointing though, and this disappointment is two-fold. The story, while illuminating some of the the early days of The New 52's Bruce Wayne/Batman, really doesn't deliver anything groundbreaking, nor does it powerfully illuminate the new Batman in any unique way. We've seen these types of Batman stories again and again in the past. Detective Comics #0 also does nothing to help untangle or explain all the inconsistencies now inherent in Batman, and his many Robins' stories, by continuing to be set 10 and 7 years ago. The totally contradictory and unintelligible continuity of The New 52 looks like it will remain just that, even after Zero Month.

While it's still fun to see Logan play at mutant leader as a younger man, thus perhaps validating his new role as headmaster of new Jean Grey School for mutants, The First X-Men #2, unlike #1, is an uninspired affair.

Wonderland #1 was Zenescope Entertainment's highest selling comic book for one reason, and one reason only: it's darn good.

Pleasantly surprised at the depth and breadth of the smart commentary and great storytelling in Before Watchmen: Minutemen #3, I'm now anxiously awaiting the next installment.

So, once again Superman is depressed and defeated, lost and alone, and will probably head over to Diana's pad to cry on her shoulder. Such is the life of the New 52's Superman. How this makes him more appealing, I'll never know. Maybe I'm just finally outgrowing Superman...well, at least this version of him.

With Superman about to start getting intimate with Wonder Woman, I'm wondering how much longer I will be hanging around the Superman titles. My reasons for my ire over this latest Superman storytelling debacle can be mulled over in full here, but let's just say I'm not a fan of the idea. Hopefully it won't last long.

Aside from the interesting ending, which sets up the rest of the series nicely, the only other thing interesting about Before Watchmen: Dr. Manhattan is its odd cover. Silk Spectre doesn't figure much into the story here in issue #1 so what's she doing on the cover? More importantly, what's up with Manhattan's positioning behind her and his grasp on her? It's almost like an inside joke that's not as subtle as it at first might seem. I'm sure that I'm not the only one that thinks this cover is odd...and slightly offensive in its suggestiveness, especially knowing the usual state of Manhattan's dress. Maybe that's what Silk Spectre standing in front of him is mean to hide...

Uncanny X-Men, as a series, is winding down once again. We're still going to be treated to some great Marvel Comics stories from Gillen, just not Marvel Comics' X-Men stories. Savor them while you still can.

Fun pre-WWII adventure of the highest caliber since Indiana Jones last appeared in comics, The Rocketeer: Cargo of Doom looks to be a hit for IDW Publishing and a treat for fans of both The Rocketeer and this type of stylized action and adventure.

"Subterraneans 1 of 2" is the type of X-Men story that only Brian Wood can write, and I for one hope it's just one of many in a long and already storied run by the writer on X-Men.

Overall, it's awesome to see Marvel Comics finally and seriously try to produce an ongoing comic book about a female Marvel U superhero that doesn't rely on selling her appeal through a barely there outfit or a focus on her breast size. While Azzarello's Wonder Woman is currently reigning as the best developed, written, and drawn mainstream female superhero book (and character) right now, Captain Marvel, Carol Danvers, and DeConnick definitely have the potential to rise to those heights eventually.

Much of The New 52 has disappointed me, especially the travesty they are making of my favorite superhero, but Wonder Woman is one of the few DC Comics superhero titles that remains at the top of my reading pile every month. I can't wait to see where this brilliant creative team takes Diana and company next.

Off to a solid start, even if it isn't anything new or insightful (yet) into Watchmen's most popular character, Before Watchmen: Rorschach #1 is one of the better Watchmen prequel first issues.

With all the recent talk of 20th Century Fox losing the rights to Daredevil as a character, the rights reverting back to Marvel Studios, and the possibilities for future versions of an on-screen Daredevil based on Frank Miller stories now up in the air, it's easy to over look that Waid's run on Daredevil is shaping up to be even more thrilling and engaging than Miller's run was. Maybe Marvel Studios will have the foresight to look to Waid's Daredevil for inspiration instead. They could do way worse.

Image Comics just keeps delivering hit after hit, and Revival is just another in a long line of titles that are must reads. Soaring to heights of smart and compelling storytelling that we used to only see from DC Comics' Vertigo line, Image Comics is an unquestioned premier publisher of artistically solid sequential art stories.

I can't say enough good things about Cornell's first Vertigo series. If at any time you've enjoyed any episode of The X-Files or taunt political thrillers like The Ides of March (2011), then Saucer Country is for you. Spread the word about, but more importantly read, this great series. Saucer Country is one of those potentially great Vertigo series that deserves as long a life as the UFO phenomena itself.

I've enjoyed all of the Season One books I've read, not because of their radical contemporary feel or their revisionism, but because they stick to what made the stories great in the first place and pay homage to, by recreating, the early comic books of the 1960s that introduced these characters. Spider-Man Season One ended up being a great spontaneous read, and I highly recommend it.

I'm not giving up on Before Watchmen: Ozymandias #2. I'm just hoping that it returns to form next issue.

So, I'm going to make a proposition to DC Comics. Create a whole universe, and full slate of books, based on the Smallville heroes and villains and you'll win back this wayward Superman fan. It just might take something that drastic to win me back. I always said I'd read Superman comics no matter what because I just simply love the character...but you are making this very hard to do outside of Smallville and Action Comics (at least for now).

There's plenty of good X-reads out there now (albeit they are pretty diluted right now with AvX crossover stuff), but X-Men just might be the new best of the bunch.

Of to a great start, It Girl and The Atomics looks like another hit for Image Comics. Honestly, anything linked to or spun out of Mike Allred's Madman universe is sure to be worth checking out. Rich and Norton make it worth It Girl and The Atomics not just worth checking, they make it worth picking up again next month.

Punk Rock Jesus isnt perfect, but like I mentioned above, its a damn fun and intelligent read. Its a shame this is only a mini-series though. If conceived as an ongoing series, it really might have become one of Vertigos signature series.

There is no hope, redeeming quality, or anything positive about the human race, its institutions and its immorally motivated men of power in Before Watchmen: Comedian. Once you figure out that that's the point here, it's much easier to sit back and enjoy the debauched ride.

While not really tying into the Ultimate Comics mega line crossover, Ultimate All-New Spider-Man #13 is nonetheless a solid read. Bendis continues to make history by making the most unique character to ever wear the Spidey outfit not just an engaging character, but a winning one as well.

While not really tying into the Ultimate Comics mega line crossover, Ultimate All-New Spider-Man #13 is nonetheless a solid read. Bendis continues to make history by making the most unique character to ever wear the Spidey outfit not just an engaging character, but a winning one as well.

Before Watchmen: Nite Owl, along with Before Watchmen: Ozymandias are both high quality works that continue to faithfully add to the overall characterization of Watchmens highly dynamic and engaging characters. I cant wait for Before Watchmen: Nite Owl #3.

Overall, The First X-Men should remain canon after the Marvel NOW! changes that are immanent, and I certainly hope so. I really like the idea that Logan was very much a good guy in the early goings before Weapon X and all. It reinforces his current position as prime protector and educator of mutant children.

All of Valiant's new books have been heads and shoulders above their recent competition from the Big Two, and several other independent publishers, but Archer and Armstrong just might be the book that rises to a head and shoulder higher than Valiant's other books. With every new Valiant book published I continue to be amused, entertained, and best of all amazed.

Better than anticipated, but way longer than desired, Avengers vs. X-Men isn't a bad crossover. It's just a bit to long of a crossover. Honestly, the best stories involving the conflict aren't to be found in the pages of the main event's title, but rather in the other regular titles like Uncanny X-Men and The Avengers. Even so, I'm more than ready for the ReEvolution of Marvel NOW! to begin.

Loyal Superman fans have weathered tough times where our favorite superhero has been poorly presented (remember Superman IV?). All we can hope for is that Man of Steel is as good as it's teaser trailer hints it might be and that the comics follow suit...eventually.

At least we New Mutants fans are going to be treated to one more great looking arc with "Fight the Future" which begins on 8-15-12. After that where these great, and often overlooked, 2nd generation X-Men end up will be anybody's guess.

The Ultimate Universe has gone from being an edgy hyper-realistic version of the Marvel U to an edgy, hyper-realistic version of the Marvel U where it seems that everything and anything goes. I havent enjoyed the Ultimate Universe this much since its inception a decade ago. Kudos to Marvel Comics for not letting the horrible Ultimatum storyline destroy what is a smart and worthwhile re-imagining of their iconic characters. Im hooked...again.

This book continues to be top of the reading pile quality month in and month out, thanks to Aaron's great characterizations and subtle (and sometimes not so subtle) humor. Wolverine and The X-Men is a monthly must read.

Artistic misfires aside, Captain Marvel looks to be a welcome breath of fresh air to Marvel Comics line up. It definitely has the potential to be a hit, and I hope it will be. You should check it out.

While totally removed from the real world and comprised of complete fantasy and super-biological sci-fi, Uncanny X-Men continues to be high-brow superhero action and philosophizing in the best of the Mighty Marvel manner.

Brian Wood is a brilliant writer, and here, in Dark Horse Comics' Conan the Barbarian, his full talent is on stunning display.

At this point we can move past saying that Valiant is back! and start making the case that Valiant is now here to stay. Every single issue of a new Valiant comic that Ive read has been great and left me wanting more. With titles like Archer and Armstrong, Eternal Warrior, and Rai on the horizon, the fun is far from over.

Overall, Before Watchmen: Ozymandias gets off to a great start and does nothing to debase the original character and story. Along with Before Watchmen: Nite Owl, this book looks to be one of the best of the series.

Saucer Country isnt on par with The X-Files yet as far as legendary sci-fi about aliens (illegal or otherwise) goes, but if readers keep up with Saucer Country, I have a strong feeling that Cornell will get this series there. Read this book.

Warlock, Doug, Shan, Amara, Nate, Dani, and the rest of the crew will undoubtedly show up somewhere else, but the X-Books will be worse off due to the cancellation of its most unique X-Book. New Mutants will be missed.

Ultimate X-Men is a good solid, and yes it is an importantly progressive read (despite all Ive said about it negatively here), but I wonder how long after the resolution to Divided We Fall interest in the series can be kept up where most of the most recognizable X-Men are unavailable simply because theyve been killed off

Ive said it before and Ill say it again. The X-Books are some of the best written mainstream superhero books on the marked. A few years ago it was the Superman Family of books, and as great as they were with their World of New Krypton storylines, the current run of X-Books just might be better (AvX aside).

The market is ripe for the revival of a classic horror anthology series and Dark Horse Comics is just the type of publisher that can make one work. If Eerie doesnt get better as it goes along though it simply wont be around long enough for anyone to care.

Worth the read alone for the snarky opening technological display at the con by Tony Stark of a device that could be a devastating weapon, but that he wont sell to anyone desiring to use it as so, Captain America and Iron Man is Marvel Comics superhero storytelling at its simplest best. A solid, self-contained arc of a read, Im really looking forward to the rest of One Night in Madripoor.

These little side excursions from the main event title of this summers Mighty Marvel Crossover are proving to make the whole thing more palatable. Hopefully, those drawn in by the main event are deciding to pick up Gillen and Acunas Uncanny X-Men. Theyd be in for a pleasant surprise and discover what all the hype about Gillens run has been.

Overall, Woods early run on X-Men is shaping up to be a worthy one, just like all of his works are.

After a pretty slow start, AvX is really starting to pick up the pace and tell a good story. The best thing about this story is that it will still have resonance after it ends since Marvel NOW!, the event following AvX isnt a reboot unlike The New 52 was.

I still will keep reading Superman, but Ill still keep hoping for a return to the glory days of what was the story of my GenX Superman.

My thoughts on Before Watchmen: Nite Owl #1 are probably a little slanted. As Ive mentioned, hes my favorite character from Watchmen and seeing him portrayed again in print in a new series is something that I never thought Id have the joy of experiencing. Im happy to report that Straczynski didnt disappoint though. He rarely does, and Before Watchmen: Nite Owl #1 is one of the best of the series thus far.

Sadly, I now fear for the next installment, which is the one that Ive been waiting for. My favorite character in Watchmen is Nite Owl II. I wrote an essay about him here at ComicBookBin during my early days as a comic book commentator that I still stand by. Hopefully, the character that Alan Moore built up in Nite Owl II will be reinforced by J. Michael Straczynski like Silk Spectre and the Minutemen were by their writers, not damaged almost irreproachably as The Comedian was here.

While not totally a waste, but definitely nothing groundbreaking, IDWs KISS #1 is a fun read, but really only worth forking over the cash for because of the art.

Setting up a whole new sci-fi sandbox for readers to indulge their taste for dark industrial landscapes, heros journey type storytelling, and hi tech adventure and action in, Planetoid #1 looks to be the start of yet another hit for Image Comics and the beginning of a long and storied career in the medium for Ken Garing.

The fact that Cooke so brilliantly pays homage to, while simultaneously jettisoning, the past with a scant 8 panels is just brilliant, and something that makes me want to read the rest of this series. Before Watchmen looks to be a worthy read simply because it balances something new with something legendary, and it works.

Harbinger (2012) #1 triumphantly fills the void that long suffering Valiant Comics and Harbinger fans have been laboring with for well over a decade, while re-introducing a brilliant concept in brilliant tones, both written and drawn. This is the book that you need to be reading in order to get on the ground floor of what is going to be one of the most important, well written, and drawn comic book series of the decade, and those yet to come.

The current gay marriage storyline is drawing a hefty amount of press and commentary, both positive and negative, but Marvel Comics is doing a great job of having the impending wedding and this issues engagement function as just another part of the story instead of the focus of the story. X-Men comic book writers over the years have always written realistically, intelligently, and insightfully (most of the time) about their characters private lives and loves. These plots, while a major part of the story, dont comprise the entire story, much like our own personal lives comprise part of our own stories, but not the whole story of our lives. Kudos again to Marvel Comics for presenting this current personal plot thread just like they have all the others and not making a huge hoopla out of it. Yes, they might be grabbing for the cash with AvX, but Astonishing X-Men is simply doing what Marvel Comics continues to best instead.

Honestly, after you read this issue, I suggest that you be a real life superhero and make a contribution to the American Cancer Society. Who knows, maybe your contribution will be the one to finally fund a real cure, instead of a fictional one.

So, while The Savage Hawkman doesnt look to be rocking the social commentary or addressing any glaring social injustices anytime soon, it does look to be rocking the awesome themes that make Hawkman/Carter Hall one of the potentially most interesting sci-fi, ancient alien, and historically interesting character next to the Eternal Warrior. Congratulations Mr. Liefeld, youve won back a very disappointed readerfor now.

Pre-New 52 Superman fans can rejoice. With Smallville, were finally getting a character that resembles, and feels almost like, an old friend whos returned after a long absence. Again, Ive never watched an episode of Smallville before, but I already love this version of the character more than the one over in Action Comics Vol. 2 and Superman.

Maybe Im just going through "Aaron on Wolverine no more" withdrawal, and am not in enough of a recovered state to objectively assess Bunns first issue as series writer, but if any writer has the potential to follow such a great run, Bunn does. Ill give the series time to breath, and Bunn time to find his voice on the book, but so farlets just say the jury is out.

The wait is finally over and the debut first issue of Valiant Entertainments X-O Manowar is just days away. This first issue will re-introduce long suffering fans to the brilliant and highly engaging comic book universe that is the Valiant U and will attract scores of new readers who will be rushing out to get on the ground floor of what is sure to be the rebirth of one of the greatest shared super hero comic book universes of all time. Let the Valiant Age beginagain!

So despite the fact that this Kara is much more shallow than the Kara that recently ceased to exist after Flashpoint, i.e. the Sterling Gates and Jamal Igle Supergirl, she is getting more interesting as each issue goes by. By giving her a new BFF this issue in the young Siobhan/Silver Banshee, she might finally begin to become likable as well as interesting. DC Comics really needs to get her settled pretty quickly though and establish a relationship for her with Kal-El. If not theyre going to just continue to ruin and drive away legions of life long Superman fans with all this new angst direction they are determined to take with those who wear the S-Shield.

Leave it to master scribe Jason Aaron, whos sadly ended his run on Wolverine as a solo character, to actually conjure up a tie in issue to this years mega-Marvel crossover event that is worth reading. So far A vs. X has been slow at best and boring at worst. Why does Marvel Comics seem so determined to put their readers through another Civil War-like event? The answer is simple. They sell, even if they are rehashes of old stories that are meant to drive sales first and tell a good story second. At least we have Aarons considerable talents and wit to ease the process.

Oh well"a guy can hope for some smartly drawn, and written, Martians"and that's what keeps me picking these books up every once in a while in the hopes that the Warlord of Mars series of books from Dynamite Entertainment might finally move past being girlie and skin books and actually tell some decent stories.

Thedetails of the resolution of Grant Morrisons first story arc on Action Comics Vol. 2 isnt nearly asinteresting as the changes that DC Comics are infusing the Superman mythoswith. Honestly, this Clark Kent/Superman just might be unique enough to keepthe courts tied up in years over their custody battle with Supermans originalcreators families. Supermans suit is radically different from his previous incarnationssuit. Not just in its new underpants on the outside look abandonment, it nowseems to be made of unstable molecules that can cause its appearance tochange radically and, at times, confusingly. Supermans new Fortress of Solitudeis presented as a Satellite of Solitude. Also, kinda like Daredevil, at leastone common person from the slums where Clark lives knows Clarks secret and hasdecided to keep it secret, asking, So"are you Clark pretending to be Superman oris it the other way around? Of course, Clark gives no definitive answer.

In short, if you like intelligent and well thought out intrigue tinged with the kind of atmospheric dread that pervaded the aforementioned X-Files, Saucer Country is for you, and soon it just might be for everybody.

The kind of irony perpetuated in Hoax Hunters, the sly commentary on media manipulation, and the simple uniqueness of the story's first tale, which introduces a new team member"who is a scarecrow spacesuit/man (you just have to read it to get it-and it makes sense), is an example of the type intelligent storytelling that the Big Two pretty much stay away from for the most part in their mainstream superhero comics (albeit with a few exceptions). Read this book.

Not a replacement for Northlanders, but a worthy read simply because of Wood and Cloonan's highly literate work, Conan the Barbarian looks like a monthly pull list keeper.

Overall, and as is the case with most Hickman projects (pardon the pun), The Manhattan Projects looks to be a series that will require some patience on the part of the reader as Hickman unfolds his grand master plan of a story, but as is the case with most Hickman projects, The Manhattan Projects will most likely end up being another of the great string of intelligent and worthwhile indie-like comics that Image Comics is renowned for these days.

New Mutants was getting really good again just before the mandated "Fear Itself" crossover almost derailed the book for me permanently. I'm glad I stuck it out. All of the X-books are once again near the top of the quality heap at Marvel Comics, and New Mutants is moving its way up to the top of that pile.

I'll admit that when I first saw the cover to Snowed In, I was immediately put off as I expected a banal slasher wannabe book, much like Hack Slash. Instead I was treated to a rewarding trip into a well plotted and executed psychological thriller, reminding me that the old adage "never judge a book by its cover" is still true. I urge you to apply the same logic to Action Lab Entertainment. They might be a small publisher, but they appear to be capable of telling big stories.

I'm glad that Resurrection Man didn't get axed. It's one of the most interestingly schizophrenic of The New 52 books. It needs to start taking a serious direction though, and thankfully begins to here in this issue. If it doesn't continue to do so though, it might not survive the next wave of cancellations.

As long as Hickman is the creative force behind Fantastic Four and FF, these books will remain top of the reading pile each month, as they rightly should be.

X-Men Legacys new direction, with its new setting at The Jean Grey School for Higher Learning, is off to a great start under the direction of Gage and Baldeon. Heres to hoping that this new creative team keeps X-Men Legacy on the right track. Somehow I think that they will.

The era of Superman's new origins that Morrison is tasked with bringing to life is shaping up to be quite good. As a super Superman fan, I have no objection to what Morrison is doing in the long run, albeit with a few exceptions I've discussed at length before. Now if DC Comics could just fix what's going on over in the pages Superman (and "five years" down the road), maybe the Superman Family of books would rise to the top of the reading stack again. It's a position that they held for several years recently, but have been supplanted this year by some of my other favorite mainstream heroes, Wolverine and The X-Men.

Wolverine and The X-Men is now my new favorite monthly book. Since I'm not enjoying The New 52's Superman, something has to rise to the top. Aaron and his wonderful take on The X-Men takes the top spot, even if he isn't able to get as smart assed as he usually does in his storytelling. He's at the top of the list of writers who are making the X-Family of books the best superhero books out there right now"and once again.

Overall, its good to see Wood getting back into superhero books, but something a little more suited to his usual themes might have been a little more interesting. Theres enough to keep me interested here thus far, but its going to have to get much more interesting for me to finish reading the series issue by issue and not waiting for the trade.

Strangely enough, I'm interested in seeing what developments are in store for Kara, especially the "Return to Argo" promised "Next Issue." Maybe she's going to get to the bottom of what happened to her, i.e. how she ended up on Earth. This probably won't be the case, as dragging out and screwing with Kara's origin and parents is par for the course with the character since she was reintroduced a few years ago. Either way, it won't be nearly as interesting as her central story and role in New Krypton was"and that story doesn't even matter anymore since it "didn't happen."

Yes, it appears that Aaron has the perfect combination of quirky X-characters, and one big X-Man that he's been doing a great job with for a while now, to headline his first solo X-Team book. Here's to a long and fun run.

Again, as Ive said before, The Magdalena isnt a doozy of a literary read every month (although Marz could make it be if he really cut loose with it), nor is it the most original work on the shelves monthly, but it is one of the most solid and indisputably and unrepentantly consistent monthly books published. For those with an interest in (real world based) religious fiction/action/adventure, The Magdalena is for you.

By the way, this is the infamous butt cover issue. For the final cover version of this issue, Perez and Buccellato highlighted Supermans ass for me with a thin read line. This little bit of butt lining wasn't visible in the original promo cover art. Thanks guysthat's just what Superman's costume and fans needed.

Overall, Im still waiting for Aaron to cut loose, and for Rachel to take on more of a visible role. Hopefully, these things will be coming. I still feel that this age of X-stories can go down as the Aaron (maybe Aaron/Gillen) Age, but the jury is now back out on whether Wolverine and The X-Men is going to be the title that solidifies this assertion.

So while The New 52s Voodoo might need a change of direction, Marzs The Magdalena is still headed in the right one. Forget Voodoo, read The Magdalena instead for a truly intriguing and solid story.

Oh, and I guess the line that was drawn at $2.99 was made of magic ink. It's disappeared. Note the cover price to Action Comics #3.

Xenoholics is a funny, quirky, and scary hit for Image Comics, that follows in a long line of quirky and engaging works recently published by a group that has gone from near obscurity after the comic book bust of the mid 1990s to a Vertigo level respected published.

Maybe Im just a little too old-fashioned, or too much of a Superman purist, but a casual sex Lois just seems like too much of a drastic change from how Lois has been portrayed over the decades. This is sad, because I really was starting to learn to live with, and slightly warm to, the DCnU changes to my favorite superhero.

It is a grand thing to be so excited about several X-Men titles, and an even grander thing to consistently be surprised, entertained, and delighted by X-title after X-title. With so many good X-books to read right now, its hard to not read them all. Hopefully, Gischler, Aaron, Gillen and company can keep this great run going for a long while.

Overall, Wolverine and The X-Men is everything I anticipated, and I anticipated a great deal. Ive been really, really wanting to read a series that effectively portrays the dynamism inherent in Wolverines character and is set at a School for Gifted Youngsters and Wolverine and The X-Men delivered both of these things very excellentlyat least for one issue.

Overall, Supergirl #2 does more to pique the readers interest in Superman and the rebooted DCnU version of Krypton than interest the reader in the series title character. Im unsure how this series, and rebooted Kara, will play out. If I wasnt such a die hard Superman fan, whos followed the superhero since before I was in grade school, Id probably consider dropping the series all together.

There is one character who is glaringly left out of the festivities, so to speak. One has to image that Charles Xavier will be returning to his roots, but Gillen doesnt give us a hint as to where he is or what his takes on these events are. Xavier is the founder of the original school, and of the original X-Men as a team and concept. It is hard to imagine that he will be left out of the limelight yet again as this new era of X-Men stories moves forward. Maybe Gillen, Aaron, and the rest of the X-Scribes are simply saving him up for something special? Who knows, but like Rachel, whos finally getting back into the picture, Xavier is massively underused and overlooked. He needs a major role, and he needs one fast. Overall though, in X-Men Regenesis more questions are answered than posed. The tables are now set for the next era of X-Men stories. From the looks of things, theyre shaping up to be pretty interesting.

Vampires in popular culture are still clinging to the outskirts of the collective un-pop-conscious, but they're beginning to lose ground. I, Vampire is DC Comics' too little, too late attempt to jump on the bandwagon and squeeze a little revenue out of this dying fad.

Overall, if Daniel manages to stick to his established plot elements, he just might have another hit on his hands with The Savage Hawkman. All the parts are in place. Lets see what heights they take us to.

Catwoman #1 passes the story telling test with flying colors, but fails miserably in execution. I'm sorry but showing Catwoman beating the living daylights out of a woman abuser and murderer doesn't excuse the exploitation of the feminine form. I really want to read more of this series, but I can't support what this book looks like it is aspiring to be: a costumed soft core porn romp.

The best aspects of this issue are Rucka's subtle character reveals concerning the only survivor of the massacre that kicked off issue #1 of the series. Rucka has a penchant for writing strong female leads and it seems certain that Rucka's Bride and The Punisher will cross paths at some point. Rucka set up some really strong characters in the first two issues, when he gets back to these characters, the narrative will pick up again. I'm anticipating the arrival of issue #4 as much as I was apathetic about issue #3 after I read it, so issue #3 gave me something at least: a chance to use it as a metaphor...

Now that we've gotten past the required Fear Itself event tie in, Gillen and company can get back to focusing on the required X-Men event. The X-Men event looks to much more engaging, and is full of interesting things for Gillen to play with. Gillen steered the X-Men through Fear Itself quite handily, turning a rather boring summer event crossover into something uniquely X-Men in tone. For that alone Gillen deserves fit praise. Fear Itself was one of the weakest Marvel Comics crossover events in some time regardless of its thematic merit.

One team Ican be left off of though is Alan Davis. His art isnt poor by any means, itjust doesnt appeal to me. He draws an incredible looking super Sentinel. Hisaction choreography and panel flow are both fine as well. Its his facialexpressions. They are too out of proportion for my tastes. Also they seem a bitrepetitive. After allthe buildup to the onset of the Loganvs. Scott battle, when it finally gets here it feels a bit anti-climatic. Whilewhat sets the two at each others' throats has its basis in the direction thateach wants to take the X-Men in, and how seriously to involve the kids, itreally comes down to blows as the result of a smart-aleck comment over acharacter long gone. A character, for whose sake, the two shouldnt befighting with each other over, but focusing on the real goal, that of taking care of the youngest X-Men.

Overall, Supergirl was one of the most dynamic and engaging characters in the DCU just before Sterling Gates and Jamal Igle left her book. Now, as far as the first issue is concerned, she's just a pale rehash of the Kara we met again for the first time a decade ago. This is a new and dynamic DCU? Not as far as Supergirl, or Superboy for that matter, are concerned"at least yet.

Overall, Frankenstein Agent of S.H.A.D.E. has thepotential to be one of the more interesting New 52 books, even though it really,in the end, is pretty much a DCnU incarnation of Hellboy and B.P.R.D. As statedthough, with Lemire and Ponticelli at the helm, this book should be uniqueenough, and written and drawn well enough, to hold its own in a growing crowdof supernaturally superhuman focusing comics.

Well also have to wait for further issues to get the characterization going storytelling wise as well. While all of the DCnU books are meant to be perfect jumping on points, Demon Knights will be much more enjoyable to those who are already familiar with the characters previous incarnations or anxious, like I was as far as Madame Xanadu was concerned, to see how they are going to be portrayed in the DCnU. Besides the fact that we didnt really need, in an all ages book, to know that Xanadu likes it roughwell, the kids didnt need to know that at leastDemon Knights looks like it has the potential to be a great read. Maybe Xanadu is fooling Etrigan instead? Who knows? I'd like the series to last long enough to find out.

Overall, there isnt much that is bad about Superboy #1, but there isnt much that is appealing or new either. His origin is pretty similar, his motivation and character flaws are pretty similar as well, if at least much more self-centered at this point. Besides seemingly removing the Doomsday storylines connections, whats really the point here?

While there is nothing wrong with including progressive ideas in Superman's stories, in fact including them is a great idea, beating the reader over the head with the message really isn't smart storytelling. It's more akin to preaching.

Overall, Im looking forward to some great storytelling in Hawk and Dove that should more than make up for the lack of great art. Sterling Gates made Supergirl into the most dynamic and interesting character in the DCU during his stint on her book, odds are hell do something similar with Hank Hall and Don Granger aka Hawk and Dove.

As a huge fan of The Punisher as an adolescent, who never thought that hed read a Punisher starring book again after abandoning Punisher War Journal in the late 1980s, Im pleasantly surprised and, more importantly, entertained by the character and his stories again, as Rucka and Checchetto imagine him. Hopefully this creative pair will keep him interesting and entertaining.

Overall, The Vault reads like an excellent mixture of Dan Brown, Clive Cussler, and intelligent supernatural horror brought to excellent life in sequential art form. Chock up another win for Image Comics and, more importantly, their readers.

Overall, SCHISM hasnt disappointed yet, and X-readers everywhere should be greatly anticipating the next installment. This X-fan is. Even more than next issue though, this X-fan is highly anticipating Aarons upcoming Wolverine and The X-Men.

Besides a the essay Acheron: The Nightmare inside the Age Undreamed Of by Dale E. Rippke included after the adaptation proper ends, along with the full color map of Hyboria, which both go a long way to explaining and developing the fictional historical setting, Conan the Barbarian: The Mask of Acheron is a waste of its hefty $6.99 cover price. Do yourself a favor, save your $6.99 and put it towards the price of an admission ticket when the film opens.

Overall, Generation Hope #9 is a good read, and the series itself remains one of the best X-titles being published right now. Gillen is a good storyteller, and is doing some really great things with his massive cast of characters, both here and over in Uncanny X-Men. While Generation Hope #9 might feel like a bit of a rushed, and allegorically trite, filler issue, it isn't a bad issue by any means.

Overall, Fear Itself feels more like Filler Itself, which it actually is for X-readers who are anxiously anticipating the unfolding of the rest of SCHISM. Uncanny X-Men #541 fills the x-fans need for near weekly mutant action, but this chapter doesnt do much for the team thematically this time. Aside from some cool power displays, theres not much. Sometimes though, in the middle of the sweltering summer heat, a cool, throwaway, power showing off story fills the bill, and the time before the falls big Uncanny X-Men re-launch and things really get going again.

Proponents of leaving Steve Rogers dead and Bucky behind the shield (like myself), who knew that these two developments wouldnt last long (although they lasted way longer than I thought they would), also knew that Steve would eventually return from the dead and resume the identity of Captain America just in time to launch a new Captain America comic book series to coincide with the film. I just wish it wasnt as boring looking as this new lease on Caos life looks like it might be. Steve did fight some battles in the shadow as Steve Rogers: Super Soldier and as leader of the Secret Avengers for a while, but hes back in the limelight now. With a creative team as creative as Brubaker and McNiven though, perhaps Captain America will get better. Its not fair to damn a new series after only one issue, and I wont, but if issue #2 doesnt progress storytelling wise, and fast, Ill probably not read issue #3.

It will be interesting to see where the story takes the brothers. Damaged is slated to run for a total of six issues, which is a little longer than most of the earlier Radical series, but has become more commonplace of late with series such as Earp and Abattoir. If you liked Earp, or any of the many Michael Mann crime dramas like Collateral, Heat, or Miami Vice, then Damaged is for you.

We might be witnessing the dawn of the Jason Aaron age of X-stories. He definitely has some big shoes to fill, but with the foundation he is laying in SCHISM, Aaron definitely is showing that he has the potential to fill said shoes.

Overall, while the whole Fear Itself crossover has its moments, once we get past these few required crossover issues and get into SCHISM, Uncanny X-Men is going to really be a must read, based on all weve seen about SCHISM thus far at least

Hope Summers, dubbed the Mutant Messiah, is too often all work and no play. Being the purported savior of a race and being raised by Cable, her teammates shouldnt be surprised or concerned that she spends most of her free time disassembling and reassembling her guns. When Hope is convinced by teammates Laurie and Idie that some time out doing girl-stuff, i.e. shopping for clothes, will help her relax some, the fun is short lived. When Frank Bohannan aka the Crimson Commando kidnaps Hope with the hopes of her reviving his now deactivated mutant powers, only one X-Man is truly best suited to rescue her. The only problem is that this X-Man doesnt exactly have a soft spot in his heart for her Losing Hope can be chocked up as yet another Wolverine lone wolf-type story where everyones favorite adamantium laced hero saves the kid singlehandedly, but only at first glance. Weve seen this type of story over and over again, yet Gillen and Roberson manage to get plenty of milea

After recovering from the events of Illyana and the teams recent adventures, Wolverine leads a team of X-Men comprised of everyone who has a particular emotional tie to Illyana on a mission to battle some Nimrod tech that is overrunning an automotive assembly plant. Turns out Cyclops/Scott Summers had a reason for sending all of Illyanas emotionally attached friends out. While the team battles away, he and Illyana have a pretty serious discussion about her recent actions, which nearly destroyed all of reality. Dani Moonstar, current de facto team leader of the X-Men team comprised of veteran New Mutants, upon returning with her team from their Nimrod wrecking mission (whom Wolverine was supposed to be in command of, but whom got slightly overridden by Dani), fully expects her team to be disbanded after recent events. To her surprise, Scott has other plans. Dani is to keep her team together, and is placed in charge of clearing up all of the X-Mens unfinished business. Their first missio

So after 901 issues, Action Comics is still going strong and is finally Supermans again. The Lex Luthor Black Ring storyline was interesting and well written, but I want to see the man who originated the book remain the protagonist of the book. As for Supermans return to the pages of his flagship title, unfortunately there really isnt much to get all hyped up about. We pretty much know how Reign of The Doomsdays is going to play out. It will be interesting to see what Cornell and Co. have in store for us in the long run, after Doomsday is defeated again.

Overall, The Mission is another example of the quality comics that Image Comics are currently publishing. Spandex, sci-fi battles, and super-heroics are all fun and poignant enough at times, but every once in a while a simple mystery unfolded over the course of a few months in a less Earth-shattering and more mundane way is just as much worth reading.

It really didnt seem possible that Hickman could top what he did on Fantastic Four. Two issues into his well deserved creative controlled spin off series FF, Hickman is already leaps and bounds beyond his Fantastic Four run. Hickman and Epting just might be crafting what will turn out being the best superhero series of 2011. It should be allowed to develop nicely since the Fantastic Four as a franchise dont have a movie project on the horizon necessitating their need to return to form (i.e. Steve Rogers becoming Cap again, Thor getting another series, etc. etc.). We should be enjoying Hickmans creative free reign on FF for a while.

Free Comic Book Day is always a great day to visit your local comic shop, but with the addition of Radical Publications sneak preview of Jake The Dreaming: An Illustrated Novel, FCBD just got even more worth braving the crowds this year.

With Dini, and now Igle, at the helm of Zatanna, we should be in for some great story telling and we are definitely in for some great art. Dini is a proven writer, so he should have some stronger storylines up his sleeve for the upcoming issues of the series. Sometimes it just takes a character a little while to get settled into his or her own solo book. It took Supergirl a while to get settled. With Zatanna were halfway there. The art is in place, and Dini should be getting the story in place shortly.

Im anxiously looking forward to finding out how this story is going to play out. Theres a great deal for the Hoebers and Delledera to expound upon here. If the rest of the series is as good as issue one, it just might become one of Images new classics.

By the end of this issue, Paul might be inclined to think that his mission is completed, but somehow (beyond that fact that this is a four issue mini-series) you get the feeling that Gabe isnt done with Paul. There are some more challenges ahead. To what extent they will affect Pauls life will be the real question, and hook that will bring me back for more.

So Vampis back and shes wearing some clothes this timeat least thus far. Shes also immersed in a more seriously grounded gothic superhero themed world. Shes on a mission, and that mission is one of death dealing. Her first issue is packed with action, blood, bodices, but surprisingly, and welcomingly, little skin. Looks like were going to be getting a serious treatment of the characterbut a costume as iconic as Vampis cant remain under the jeans, flared collared shirt and trench coat forever. Trautmann and Reis will undoubtedly make good, and hopefully intelligent, use of it eventually.

Overall, Batwoman #0 doesnt really tell a groundbreaking story, but does do a good job of reframing for new readers Kate Kane/Batwomans character within the whole Batman Inc. storyline. Its much more of an introductory tale, than a probing of Kates deep and troubled psyche, but when this series goes monthly it has the potential to become a must read book. Batwoman as a character hasnt been around too terribly long in this incarnation, but if Batwoman reads as well as it looks, she will be.

Overall, Vampirella: Masters Series Vol. 1 is a nice introduction to the contemporary take on the character that revived her popularity and lead to her being a property worth Dynamite Entertainment putting up the money for. Vampis new Dynamite Entertainment produced ongoing series debuts soon, and will be written by Eric Trautmann and penciled by Wagner Reis. Hopefully these guys will build on what Morrison and Millar started, and take Vampi to a whole new level of action, horror, and adventure.

Overall, izombie is a unique slice of pop-paranormal art. Its main characters are fantastic and have their roots in the world of horror and fantasy, but are just as human on the inside as you and I. Roberson and Allred have managed to create a unique cast of characters who look like they just might be alive (or at least undead) for a long time.

Overall, Abattoir is another worthy offering from a worthy publisher of some of the most visually striking, and creepy, comic books in the industry. Nearly all of Radical Comics books are worth reading for the art and story, Abattoir isnt an exception. Its simply another example of the type of high quality work being done at Radical Comics.

Overall, I still really look forward to Northlanders each month. The week it is published it sits on the top of my reading pile, and is one of the rare monthly books I read that often gets the privilege of being read twice. Several great Vertigo series have unfortunately folded, but thankfully (and justly) Northlanders soldiers on, to the benefit of all comic readers who appreciate a book that is a cut above the field.

Overall, like I suggested before, the X-Men as characters and a concept are in need of a massive injection of originality, and they really need to get out of the world of closed, mutant-only concerns. They need to battle some other types of threats to humanity to prove their heroism along with bashing in the heads of some evil mutants once in a while. While wiping out a cadre of particularly nasty vampires will help, if this is how the story is going to unfold, Im ready to fast forward to the next evil mutant threat

Theres one more issue of Unknown Soldier left to be published, and then of course the final trades, so theres still some more new Unknown Soldier left for us to experience. After that, we can only look forward to Joshua Dysarts next opus, which he just might find himself hard pressed to make as powerful as his current one. Its a worthy challenge though, and Im sure hes more than up to it.

Either way, Lemires Sweet Tooth is a good and intriguing read. Dont wait for the trades. Pick this series up monthly. Its worth the effort. This series needs to escape the type of quickly thrown together ending that leaves the series fans disappointedendings of the type were witnessing right now in several other Vertigo titles.

Overall, Action Comics #894 should be one of the most interesting issues of the series published since the end of New Krypton. For a series that is plugging along, but not really gaining much steam with Lex Luthor as the lead, it will be a welcome change, whatever the marketing or storytelling reason for bringing in Death may be.

For more Dawn and JML: linsner.com

Overall, Mata Hari #0, as it is technically labeled, is a strong work of sequential art that stands well on its own, but does a fantastic job of enticing its readers to look forward to this alternative take on one of historys most desired and reviled, yet potentially innocent, female criminals. Like most books published by Radical Publications, Mata Hari #0 and the forth coming (Spring 2011) Mata Hari 128 page, full color, hardcover graphic novel both look to be tailor made to be adapted to the big screen ( I picture Mila Kunis in the title role"okay, so Ive got a minor star crush on her). Based upon the quality of Mata Hari #0, and the peek it gives us into the potential quality of the graphic novel, its one book that should scream film adaptation, and rightly so.

Unfortunately, I cant take this new Dianas story to heart. For a character that was a pure representation of the power of love a few months ago during Blackest Night, shes more Ares than Aphrodite now. While this might be great and compelling storytelling wise overall, this isnt the Wonder Woman Ive known and loved.

The lackluster (but not boring) storytelling is propped up with some great artwork by series artist Ardian Syaf. His tough and gritty looking renditions of Lanterns Stewart and Rayner, along with his strong anatomical and choreographic work remind me (as Ive stated before) of Jim Lees work. While Syaf isnt necessarily a Jim Lee clone, hes definitely a product of the Jim Lee school of art. Theres nothing wrong with that. Being compared to Jim Lee is a good thing, even if the comparison detracts from labeling Syafs artwork as original.

Overall, The Rising does what many of Radical Publishings books do: it takes an old concept and injects new thematic and artistic life into it making it fresh and interesting again. The Rising looks to be yet another book worth devouring from Radical.

Overall, the Radical Premiere issue of Ryder on the Storm does everything it is meant to do perfectly. It introduces an interesting protagonist who is mysterious and intriguing along with a world that at first glance looks tired and overused as a setting, but reveals itself to be potentially very interesting and frightening. Ryder on the Storm looks like another potential hit for Radical.

Northlanders is 30 issues along now at this point, it,s and is still going strong. Brian Woods masterful series continues to be a top of the monthly reading stack book that is astounding in its continued and consistent high quality.

If you havent been reading Unknown Soldier (you should be), A Gun in Africa is the perfect jumping on point. Joshua Dysarts powerful meditation on the human rights atrocities and daily battles in one of the most overlooked yet war torn areas of the world is easily one of the most important sequential art series ever.

Overall, Superman #700 does a good job laying the ground work for the next year or so of Superman stories. Whether or not it holds a candle to New Krypton remains to be seen. With Straczynski helming the flagship of the Superman Family of Books though, it will most likely remain a strong read.

Radical Comics is becoming renowned for top notch art and storytelling in their titles, and Driver for the Dead looks to continue this trend. Youll be hard pressed to find a better drawn and scripted horror/action thriller on the stands of your local comic book store.

Green Lantern Corps has been one of DC Comics standout books since its first issue, and even with the creative team changes, it looks like it will continue to be a standout. Its going to be interesting to see the effect Ganthet will have on the future of the Corps now that hes down in the trenches. More importantly though, it will be interesting to see just what hes up to

(suggested for mature readers only)

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