Alan Scott: The Green Lantern #1 is a fantastic exploration of love, loss, and conquering fear. This introduction is jam packed and serves as one of the most engaging #1s of 2023.

Alan Scott: The Green Lantern #2 excellently follows one of the best comics of the year in a way that keeps the series on pace to end up with an Eisner.

Alan Scott: The Green Lantern #3 continues to prove that comics are at their best when they discuss poignant and relevant topics. This series has been emotional to say they least, with issue #3 ending in a way that will make you dying to read the next one.

Alan Scott: The Green Lantern #4 is another perfect issue that perfectly mixes action, romance, and emotion into one issue. This issue will leave you begging for more and heartbroken at the same time.

Alan Scott: The Green Lantern #5 kicks the series into overdrive with an emotional battle between the titular character and his long lost love.

Alan Scott: The Green Lantern #6 concludes one of the most poignant comics of the last decade in a masterful fashion. The story concludes in some of the most satisfying ways youll see in the modern comic book landscape.

Almighty #2 takes a deep dive into the nuance and subtext behind its themes. Edward Laroche is crafting a tale about human nature thats expertly disguised behind a bad-ass apocalypse story.

Animal Pound #1 is a fantastic reimagining of George Orwells Animal Farm, highlighting the power struggles that would exist between members of a society after their shared oppressors are removed from the equation.

Animal Pound #2 sees the trials and tribulations behind establishing a society, as well as the early pitfalls that may come back to bite the citizens later on.

Animal Pound #3 is probably the best issue thus far, showcasing the real word parallels behind this Animal Farm inspired take on democracy and the state of the world today.

Animal Pound #4 is an all too real look into the modern political structure of the world, highlighting ideologies that will lead to the downfall of system that may not have been perfect to begin with.

Astonishing Iceman #1 is a blizzard of fun for any minor or major fans of the character. The strong attention to detail makes this the perfect follow up to the Hellfire Gala, with an art team that really understands what makes ice so cool.

Astonishing Iceman #2 continues to prove why this character was so deserving of an ongoing series. Iceman is portrayed in a wonderfully refreshing manner, with the art team killing it overly page.

Astonishing Iceman #3 is a somber reminder of the power that can come from life, death, and grief. Though the issue takes a bit too much time establishing a cameo, the overall result is still a positive experience.

Astonishing Iceman #4 continues the trend of the previous issue by introducing Spider-Man in a cameo appearance. Unfortunately, this takes away from the titular character enough for this issue to feel like filler content.

Avengers Beyond #1 is an overindulgent continuity mess that will likely confuse readers. The art hurts more than it helps, with Lands controversial style hindering the character designs.

Avengers Inc. #1 is the perfect palate cleansing, noir style detective book that the Avengers line needs. The new status quos for all of these characters work on almost every conceivable level, creating a mystery that is both engaging and full of spectacle.

Avengers Inc. #2 simultaneously pushes the main plot forward while jumping into a fun episodic adventure. The creative teams here are truly cooking something special with an issue that is fun from beginning to end.

Avengers Twilight #5 is the most classic Avengers story since No Surrender, with art that harkens back to many of the timeless tales in modern comic book history.

Barnstormers #1 is as much an excellent period piece as it is a melodramatic romance. The character work is fantastic and the art is as grounded as it is breathtaking.

Barnstormers #2 continues the redefining of the comic book genre with art and story that contradict much of this mediums content. The focus on character first gives this book a wholesome and warm tone that makes it a must grab on the shelves.

Batman/Santa Claus: Silent Knight #1 is a fun introduction to DCs Santa Claus that firmly ingrains him within mainstream continuity. This all creates a fun, new adventure that promises to be the hit Christmas comic of the year.

Batman/Santa Claus: Silent Knight #2 does an excellent job in establishing a new backstory for Santa Claus and Krampus while introducing more and more elements from the world of DC.

Batman/Santa Claus: Silent Knight #3 continues to deliver a fun, inspiring, and magical entry into the DC Comics Christmas mythos.

Batman/Santa Claus: Silent Knight #4 concludes DCs best holiday event of all time, masterfully capturing the elements that make for a strong DC story and exude the holiday spirit.

Batman: City of Madness #1 truly lives up to its title, offering a completely unique look into Gotham. The connections to established continuity are strong but not hingent, with homage being paid in a respectful way that maintains this storys status as a standalone series.

Batman: City of Madness #2 is exemplary of everything that makes the DC Black Label initiative worth jumping into. Christian Ward delivers a fully realized vision within these pages that genuinely adds to the material its inspired from.

Batman: City of Madness #3 is a fun conclusion to a very inventful and colorful series, although the ending is a little contrived.

Black Canary: Best of the Best #1 is a very strong start to a promising new series that pits two of DCs greatest fighters against one another.

Blood Tree #1 is a fast paced oversized introductory issue that stumbles in its characterization and dialogue. This is all overshadowed by the excellent theming and bigger narrative.

Cobra Commander #1 is a great introduction to the evil side of the G.I Joe universe that is bound to please new and old fans. The issue does an excellent job justifying its existence, making it almost the most compelling introduction in the Energon Universe thus far.

Cobra Commander #5 concludes this miniseries in an amazing way, establishing one of the biggest threats in the Energon Universe thus far.

Cyborg #2 is a messy issue with uneven art that distracts from the overall narrative. The use of news segments becomes a bit overbearing by the end of the issue, with the focus straying away from the main character in an unsavory way.

Danger Street #1 is an ambitious opening chapter, serving as an excellent start to a 12-issue DC Black Label maxiseries by the creators of last year's Rorschach. King and Forns seek to put the limelight on the obscure, while also discussing topics that are poignant to todays conversation. Forns art highlights the mundane nature of the otherwise sprawling epic about to unfold. Social commentary and realism ground this otherwise fantastical book and serve to promise a story of nuance rather than spectacle.

The world of Danger Street continues to grow as new threads are explored in this second issue. Those who understand that this story is still growing and arent looking for immediate payoffs will appreciate the fantastic worldbuilding and nuanced social commentary.

Danger Street #3 takes this story to its logical next step in the most entertaining way possible. The writing is a great blend of comedy and exposition, while the art and coloring stuns beyond belief.

Danger Street #4 grows on the themes of power corrupting, using its multiple narratives to display a multifaceted view of the subject. The art teams explosive talent brings this book to life, making it a must grab title.

Danger Street #6 ties up a bunch of loose ends while putting all of its characters on intense cliffhangers. The art team steals the show with a fantastic cover that is worth the price of admission alone.

Danger Street #7 is an excellent return from the brief hiatus that this book saw over the last few months. The book starts at a 10 and ends on an 11 with all the pieces in place allowing for the narrative to move forward in fun and new ways.

Danger Street #8 maintains the pacing of a slow build that allows the story to naturally evolve into an epic in the making. Fornes and Stewarts art encapsulate the humanized otherworldly plot from the mind of King, in a way that easily conveys the high concepts in the narrative.

Danger Street #9 is different from anything thats come before in this series. While it may seem odd to use so much dialogue in a book consisting of one large fight, King, Fornes, and Stewart use this opportunity to connect everything thematically in the overall grand scheme of the narrative.

Danger Street #10 is a powerful entry that pushes all of the players closer and closer together. The strong thematic ties continue to keep this narrative fresh and relevant, making the overall mystery that much more enticing.

Danger Street #11 wastes no time in immediately establishing the stakes and makes some giant moves right before the finale. King and company use this penultimate chapter to set a new standard for what can be defined as a cliffhanger.

Danger Street #12 fantastically concludes one of the most imaginative and thought provoking series of the year with an ambiguous conclusion that serves as a satisfactory end to all of these characters stories this far.

Deadpool #3 is a fun trip to the zoo that reminds us that LBGTQ+ characters dont need to be defined by stereotypes. Coccolo continues to rock this books art, delivering an excellent mix of body horror and comedy.

Deadpool #4 continues to be a delight, marrying comedy, action, and gorgeous art from beginning to end. The plot reveals here are super intriguing, setting up more mysterious to explore.

Deadpool #5 concludes the first arc in a hilarious, heartwarming, and visually amazing fashion. The book continues to be a champion for representation in comics and excels in doing so.

Destro #1 is a blast of a first issue that mixes the fun of the classic cartoons and comics with the grit and realism of this new Energon Universe.

Destro #2 is great Saturday morning cartoon action that sees villains be villains in all their glory.

Destro #4 is a great issue that is full of revelations, implications for the future, and explosive action.

Destro #5 is a great conclusion to this series that showcases the villains of the G.I Joe universe in a menacing manner.

Doctor Strange #3 features some fantastic interplay between Strange and Dormammu with the relationship with Clea and Stephen continuing to be the high point. The art is a mixed bag with it being very divisive in nature. The backup story is fun in its execution and art style but seems to retread ground already explored in other series.

Doctor Strange #4 takes a fun break away from the magical couple to focus on Wong and W.A.N.D. The characters are portrayed in a fun manner and the art team highlights the capabilities of these magical secret agents.

Doctor Strange #5 starts with a frustratingly pointless stinger but then devolves into a great story that ends on an awesome cliffhanger. Pasqual Ferrys art looks beautiful here, especially paired with the voice that Jed MacKay gives Doctor Strange.

Doctor Strange #6 is an excellent bottle issue that delves into one of the most heartbreaking versions of Doctor Strange weve ever seen. The art team captures the essence of war and magic perfectly, giving this book the gritty feel it needs to set it apart from others.

Doctor Strange #7 starts off with a very underwhelming follow up to General Stranges backstory reveal from the previous issue. That combined with General Stranges overdesigned aesthetic takes a lot away from this story, although MacKay and company do end up reeling things back by the end of the issue.

Doctor Strange #8 is a huge step in the right direction for this series. Everything seems dialed up to an eleven with many of the plot threads and storylines coming to a head.

Doctor Strange #9 justifies all of the build up thus far, delivering on all of the action and spectacle that should come from a Doctor Strange series.

Doctor Strange #10 is a fantastic conclusion to the arc that started in the first issue, gathering every seemingly ambiguous element, in order to masterfully make a statement about the titular character.

Duke #5 concludes the first chapter of the G.I. Joe saga of the Energon Universe with a bang, delivering some of the best action and heartfelt moments that this universe has seen so far.

Fallen Friend: The Death of Ms. Marvel #1 is an emotional look into the way that Kamala impacted the lives of all of the supporting characters in Ms. Marvels various stories. The first story hits an emotional cord that sets the bar too high for the others, with not all of these tales working as well as the others to serve as a celebration of the powerful characterization of Kamala Khan.

Free Comic Book Day 2023: Dawn of DC - Knight Terrors #1 sets up an interesting story while the art team shines. The story only takes up half the book with the rest being filled with variant covers and design art.

Fire and Ice: Welcome to Smallville #1 checks all the right boxes with skill and aplomb from the entire creative team. A sharp, witty social commentary that also serves as a well-rounded and holistic reintroduction to its leading ladies. Whether you're new to Fire and Ice or an old-schoolJustice League International fan, this is a comic not to be missed.

Fire & Ice: Welcome to Smallville #2 may not offer the highest stakes, but the stellar adherence to a strong tone and consistency throughout the issue make it one of the best reads this week.

Fire & Ice: Welcome to Smallville #3 continues the trend of this series being the must-buy that flies under the radar of fans. The sense of tone and dedication to continuity and DCs history help create one hell of a uniquely great read.

Fire & Ice: Welcome to Smallville #4 is a great example of how to mix melodrama with superheroics, while also telling a more mature story.

Fire & Ice: Welcome to Smallville #5 continues this series trend of being unlike anything else DC is putting out right now, and that is meant in the most positive way.

Fire & Ice: Welcome to Smallville #6 fantastically concludes one of the most unique series to come out of DCs current publishing line.

Overall, Flash #789 is a fun conclusion to a filler arc that helps reinforce the new status quo of Wally and his family. The art is fantastic and helps bring a lot of dynamic fun to the action.

The beginning of the One Minute War is here and outside of questionable art choices and a lot of setup, this looks to be another enjoyable Flash arc that serves as a great jumping on point for new readers.

The second part to The One-Minute war is another fun issue of set up; however, it is still plagued by the same art issues as the first part. Jeremy Adams is setting up a to here and we can only hope that theres a substantial payoff for all of his effort.

The Flash #792 brings The One Minute War to its full action packed potential while pushing the narrative in a revealing direction. The art here is a huge step up from the first two issues and solidifies Roger Cruzs position on this book.

The Flash #793 continues to be fast paced, even though this issue takes a slight breather for some important character moments. Fans of this run will appreciate that this arc brings the focus back to characters like Wally and Irey.

The Flash #794 makes time travel seem like the most logical solution to a problem better than any comic has before. The art is electric and the spotlight on Irey continues to be a higher point for the overall narrative.

Flash #795 kicks this arc into overdrive in its penultimate chapter of "The One Minute War." The narrative isn't as strong as prior issues, yet the art takes this series to a whole new level.

The Flash #796 concludes The One-Minute-War in a mostly satisfying way, although the several pencilers, inkers, and colorists makes for an uneven read. Some of the plotlines end in a contrived manner, but overall everything concludes in a neat fashion.

Flash #798 brings Jeremy Adams run in full circle while also tying in various aspects of DCs greater continuity. The main star here is the art team, who each help make this book look perfect on each page.

Flash #799 brings back a lot of surprises from the rest of Adams run, while also serving as an emotionally strong penultimate issue. The art shifts are as subtle as they are jarring which can mess up the flow of an otherwise stellar issue.

The Flash #800 excels in being a love letter to Wally West while also setting up context for a run that is likely to blow everyones socks off. Every story here is told well with the art teams uniquely putting their spins on The Flash family.

The Flash: One Minute War Special #1 finally brings some clarity to this event while also delivering fun heroics along the way. All four artists in this issue bring their A-game in delivering different and unique stories.

The Flash #1 sets up a new, cosmic horror, tone for the franchise, establishing something entirely new for the character. While the change is welcome, this headfirst dive into the story feels like its missing some much needed context rather than setup for future mysteries.

The Flash #2 proves why this creative overhaul works so well for this series, delivering some of the craziest concepts in comics. The entire team does a great job in firmly establishing this world, grounding the titular character in a way that makes these other-worldly concepts more palatable.

The Flash #3 is an excellent look into the new mythology that these creators have set up. The star of the show is Hassan Otsmane-Elhaou who redefines how books can be lettered.

The Flash #4 continues the fantastic world building of the previous issues while also establishing a firm connection to the previous run.

The Flash #5 is not going to be for everyone, deepening an already complex story with more factors; but those who love high concept science fiction will truly appreciate it.

The Flash #6 ends the first arc with a bang, answering some questions while opening the door to others. The plot only thickens from here and The Flash has never been better than this.

The Flash #7 finally answers some questions and slows down. Those who dropped off with the new direction will find a much needed reprieve and those who stayed on will appreciate that they did.

The Flash #9 is an excellent chapter that continues to shed light on many of the plot threads that have been set up throughout the series.

The Flash #10 stumbles a bit in its narrative structure, as the build up to Absolute Power sometimes overrides the series main story, although when the focus is maintained, it is a joy to read.

The Flash #11 is a confusing, weird issue that is exemplary of the series at large. The concepts are fun and entertaining, but Flash fans beware, this is not your typical Flash story.

The Flash #13 is a beautiful ending to the first story arc that will blow the minds of fans of the greater DC Universe.

The Flash 2024 Annual is a strange annual that feels more consequential than an annual should, although it does an excellent job contextualizing the events of the main series.

G.I. Joe #1 is a wonderful start to the final puzzle piece to Skybounds Energon Universe, showcasing the rise of G.I. Joe and the sinssster Cobra.

Geiger: Ground Zero #1 is a great reintroduction to the Unnamed universe that is a perfect jumping on point for new and old readers alike.

Ghost Machine #1 introduces a lot of new books for readers to get their hands on, but does so in a way that feels less cohesive than it does like an advertisement. It seems like this would be something that Ghost Machine would want to release for free, in order to garner interest in their books, rather than a paid issue.

Green Lantern: War Journal #1 firmly roots the John Stewart character in a familiar and relatable status quo, while also setting up a new, threatening villain. The art and writing blend well for a great jumping on point for new readers.

Green Lantern: War Journal #2 continues to deliver an excellent character study of John Stewart, highlighting his experiences as a former soldier. The art and plot direction continue to be a fantastic depiction of the mundane mixed with Green Lantern action.

Green Lantern: War Journal #3 is a fantastic mix of heart and action, setting up what seems to be one of the most definitive John Stewart stories of all time.

Green Lantern: War Journal #4 takes a bit of departure from some aspects from the beginning of the series, setting this series off into a more explosive direction that embodies the more common Green Lantern action.

Jay Garrick: The Flash #1 is an excellent follow up to Flashpoint Beyond and Stargirl: The Lost Children. This interpersonal tale sets up a retcon to expand upon The Flash family by bringing Jay Garricks daughter into the fold.

Jay Garrick: The Flash #2 shifts the focus back over to Jay in a big way, fully displaying his abilities as a hero and his care as a father.

Jay Garrick: The Flash #3 continues to be an excellent exploration of family and how our pasts shape us to who we are.

Jay Garrick: The Flash #4 takes a back seat from its themes and foundation in order to provide exposition and backstory for the villain. While this is disappointing in the grand scheme of things, it is still nice to see the team striving to recapture elements from the Golden Age.

Jay Garrick: The Flash #5 picks up the best parts of this series through high octane, intense action, and profound character moments.

Jenny Sparks #1 is a fascinating discussion about the state of the world today, summarized in the lives of some seemingly unconnected, mundane individuals and superheroes with powers beyond that of comprehension.

Jenny Sparks #2 is the kind of issue that is full of fun substance while also striking up a conversation that is sure to keep readers occupied until the next issue.

Jenny Sparks #3 is a fantastic look into the classic Authority question of the usefulness of superheroes, showcasing how these heroes would respond to world events.

Jenny Sparks #4 takes this series into a fascinating direction, showcasing what a god may do when put against his equal.

Jenny Sparks #5 is definitely the most thought provoking issue of the series thus far, marrying the events of the real world with the events of the DC universe in a way that highlights who Jenny Sparks is as a character.

At the end of the day, nostalgia is the name of the game. This book is purely made to cater to fans of this era and it does its job. The story is fun and fans of Peter Davids other books like this will definitely enjoy this one.

Joe Fixit #2 continues the conflict between the titular character and the Kingpin, while providing us a ride along experience through the eyes of our favorite wall crawler. This issue holds a ton of nostalgic fun that is bound to make readers wish that Peter David was writing a new ongoing Hulk or Spider-Man book.

Joe Fixit #3 depicts Spider-Man a bit out of character but shines in its breakdown of the Hulk. The art team does a great job bringing the classic aesthetic to life with Hulk popping off of each page.

This over-sized issue was jam packed with content but may be hard to follow for fans who are not up to date with what's currently happening in Green Lantern. With an overabundance of plot and a heavy reliance on high-concept plot points, the story becomes muddled and tiresome to digest.

I look forward to seeing where this story goes. The story is intriguing and I hope this team continues the discussion of life as an Asian-American. I can look past the clunky dialogue and exposition, especially when I get to see the beautiful images that Gary Frank draws on these pages.

Junkyard Joe #4 continues to further the plot but at a detriment to the characters. The art is fantastic and is once again, the best part of this series.

Junkyard Joe #5 picks up the pace, answering lingering questions, while raising some more. The art, as always, is absolutely stunning.

Junkyard Joe #6 concludes this miniseries in a rushed manner, with the art stealing this show yet again. The greater worldbuilding thankfully just comes in way of an end stinger, yet it raises some contextual questions.

Justice Society of America #7 finally sees the series start feeling like an ongoing Justice Society of America tale rather than setup for future stories. The character work is well established, creating a lot of intrigue behind the new characters and concepts.

Justice Society of America #8 introduces a fun new character while allowing Alan Scott to take the spotlight in one of the most heartfelt and sincere issues of this entire run.

Kill Your Darlings #1 is definitely the most well-paced book on the stands this week. The creators clearly have a lot of love for this story, with a perfect marrying of art, letters, and plot that maintains the essence of childlike innocence.

Knight Terrors: Superman #1 continues the tradition of Supermans ability to overcome adversity. Thankfully, this tie-in is brought to us from the scribe of the main ongoing book, so the characterization is consistent and powerful. The art teams show off a variety of skills here, utilizing this title to showcase all their different capabilities.

Knight Terrors: Superman #2 is a great exploration into the minds of Supergirl, Superman, and Aquaman that will make you wonder why Supergirl and Aquaman didnt just have their own tie-ins. The art works perfectly in this issue, thematically tying into how Superman would reasonably react to a nightmare landscape.

Knight Terrors: The Joker #1 takes all of the elements of this horror event and flips them on their head in a way that only the Joker could do. The book is hilarious from start to finish and serves as a nice palette cleanser from the other frightening tie-ins in this larger summer event.

Knight Terrors: The Joker #2 is the perfect kind of tie-in, using the premise of the event to further develop and portray the feelings and mindset of the titular character. The comedy and horror act well in contrast to one another, with the art taking it all to a new level.

Monkey Prince #10 continues the stellar world building of Gene Luen Yang and Bernard Chang while also serving as a very satisfying tie-in to the Lazarus Planet event.

Monkey Prince #11 wastes no time in bringing Marcus back to his own story. All of the revelations and action here lead to a fantastic set up to the eventual conclusion.

Monkey Prince #12 concludes the 12-part limited series of this character in spectacular fashion. Bernard Changs art continues to be fantastic and I cannot wait to see where Gene Luen Yang takes the character from here.

Ms. Marvel: The New Mutant #2 is a great sophomore chapter for this series. The creative team really understands this character in a way that elevates the Fall of X storyline in a thoughtful manner, while also allowing Kamala to be kick-ass in her own right.

Ms. Marvel: The New Mutant #3 is a fun look into the literal mind of Kamala. The entire creative team understands this character on a deep level, evident by the care put into the more moving moments.

Nightwing #100 is a celebration of the character that pushes him into an exciting new direction. Tom Taylors writing is spectacular but its the plethora of artists that make this celebratory issue so fantastic.

Order and Outrage #1 proves that Jim Starlin is still at the top of his game. The art team that backs him up does a beautiful job in their own right, stunning from each double page spread to the next.

Order and Outrage #2 does a great job in its worldbuilding but fumbles a bit in the narrative choices. Similarly, the art is mostly great, with just the ending going overboard on the blood.

Order and Outrage #3 finally jumps the shark in the best way possible, with Starlins cosmic background jumping to the forefront of the narrative. The dialogue can be a bit cringey and clunky, but the art more than makes up for anything that may serve as a detractor to this otherwise stellar comic.

Order and Outrage #4 continues this series trend of being strong in message and art, while failing at serving as a satisfying conclusion to the overall story. The lack of closure in favor of future set up works to the detriment of an otherwise well executed issue.

Planet of the Apes #1 is a powerful start to the series. The connections to the Covid-19 pandemic are poignant and powerful, with Dave Wachters art putting the narrative on a whole other level of fantastic.

Power Girl #1 sets up an entirely new status quo for the alternate reality cousin of Superman. This new status quo promises to be a fresh start for this character, with this serving as a great jumping on point.

Fans of Ram V and Filipe Andrades The Many Deaths of Laila Starr will feel right at home with Rare Flavours. This fantastic exploration of food and culture really gives this book a unique, and inspiring feel.

Rare Flavours #2 continues to push the envelope for what is possible within a comic book. Likewise, the creative team enfuses so much life and love into the world that it feels genuinely authentic.

Rare Flavours #3 is another outstanding book from this creative team, delivering an authentic cultural and mythological look into Indian dishes and those who make them.

Rare Flavours #4 is a fascinating look into food, culture, and history, through the lense of a protagonist that somehow becomes easy to sympathize with despite his monstrous nature.

Rare Flavours #5 is a fantastic penultimate issue that truly identifies the elements that have made the narrative so engaging and worthwhile throughout the mini-series run.

Rare Flavours #6 concludes one of the best series of the last year, highlighting the importance of culture and the ways food can help us learn about and relate to one another.

Scarlett #1 is a blast of 80s nostalgic action, mixed with the scope of an espionage thriller. The action is very well choreographed, and the plot ends with a massive cliffhanger that fans of the G.I. Joe franchise will love.

Scarlett #2 is one of the best looking/choreographed action series on the stands, delivering a story full of intrigue and nuance.

Scarlett #3 is an action packed love letter to classic Kung Fu films that mixes in the nuance and intrigue of an espionage tale, with the fun world of G.I Joe.

Scarlett #4 is a fantastic example of how to marry exposition with action and tone. This is one of the most cohesive, and uniquely designed action comics on the shelves.

Sentry #1 kicks off a new tale about power and how people react differently when they encounter that power. The issue almost feels like a two-in-one, mixing a detective mystery with an action packed superhero narrative that gives a fantastic overall look of today's Marvel universe.

Yangs Shang-Chi is firing on all cylinders with every issue. The plot twists here were both surprising and poetic, and Tos art continues to stun.

This is the end of an era for Gene Luen Yang, and Shang-Chi will never be the same. This issue was a blast and a near perfect conclusion to the run that began only a few years ago.

Shazam! #6 concludes the first arc of the story in a very satisfactory manner, reestablishing the status quo of the character in a way that will define the character in a fun, new way for a new generation.

Shazam! #7 starts a new, fun, and well planned out story arc while shifting the art team in a delightfully poignant way.

Shazam! #8 concludes its second arc with deep and profound character moments that promise to get built upon in the story down the road.

Shazam! #9 is an excellent end to Waids tenure on the series, setting up the new creative team with a great foundation.

Shazam! #10 is a great time, picking up the threads from the previous creative team in a seamless manner. While the plot and writing were quite good, the art was a little inconsistent.

Shazam! #12 is an amazing end to the first arc for this new creative team, showcasing some of the best executed retcons in recent memory.

Shazam! #13 is another great issue of the nearly flawless Shazam series that shifts the focus over to Mary and Freddy.

Shazam! #14 is hilarious, heartfelt, and will make everyone want to run to the store and buy a crowbar.

Shazam! #16 presents a fun new status quo that builds upon all of the great work that has come before while also embracing the DC All In initiative.

Shazam #17 is another great addition to a consistently great book, aimed at showcasing family and the realistic struggles that families can go through.

Silk #1 sets up a new predicament for the character, serving as a Love Everlasting meets Total Recall kind of story. The art team does a great job in portraying the different settings while the cover art seems like it came completely out of left field.

Space Job #1 is an excellent introduction to this new limited series. The issue kicks off in a way that will reel in any curious reader into this fun character driven story.

Spectregraph #1 is a fantastic, character driven horror tale from some of the greatest minds in comics today.

Spider-Boy #2 continues to prove why this book has a place in todays comic landscape. Both the primary and backup stories paint elegant photos of how much this character benefits the Marvel universe overall.

Spider-Boy #3 is a fun addition to the Spider-Man franchise, setting Bailey on a path that helps further define his character.

Spider-Man India #1 takes great strides in differentiating the character from that of his 616 counterpart. The art steals the show with it being a fun homage back to the best art of the 90s.

Matt Kindt's newest Dark Horse title is a hilarious take on a James Bond style spy story. The premise is immediately intriguing and everything that follows is excellently executed.

Spy Superb #2 is a hilarious continuation from the first issue that proves that Matt Kindt is the master of his craft. The writers is witty from start to finish and kept me hooked from start to finish.

Spy Superb #3 concludes this mini series in a way that keeps up with the comedic pace that made the first two issues fantastic. The art is serviceable to the story, with the colors serving a purpose in the overall aesthetic of the book.

Star Wars: Return of the Jedi Max Rebo #1 is a fantastic exploration into the seedy underbelly of the Star Wars universe through the perspective of a gritty noir. Max Rebo is presented as more than just a strange background character, with a hopefully robust future for his character.

Stargirl: The Lost Children #4 is very heavy on the exposition, which will definitely confuse readers who are not caught up on all of Geoff Johns books. For fans who have kept up with everything, this issue reads well as a reminder for whats important, setting the stage for a fun finally.

Stargirl: The Lost Children #5 halts the momentum with an unnecessary side plot. Thankfully the focus on characters like Boom and Red Arrow make this penultimate issue stick its landing in a satisfying way.

Stargirl: The Lost Children #6 concludes the miniseries in a fine way, but Geoff Johns self overindulgence holds the story back by not letting it be its own thing. As with the rest of the series, the art is top notch, carrying the narrative past the exhausting moments in a wonderful way.

Suicide Squad: Kill Arkham Asylum #1 does an excellent job of capturing elements from the games into a comic book medium.

Superior Spider-Man #1 may not be what everyone is looking for, but fans of what Slott and Bagley have been working on over the last couple of years will love the new direction here.

Superior Spider-Man #2 shows the best way creators can marry nostalgia with honest to great storytelling. Fans of this character from any generation will find something to love here.

Superior Spider-Man #3 continues the trend of this series being a quintessential ongoing Spider-Man series that is for fans new and old. If you dont like whats going on in Amazing Spider-Man right now then look no further than this series.

The Superior Spider-Man Returns #1 is a fantastic return to the titular character, giving Spidey fans an outlet for stories that harken back to a simpler time. All of the creators here do an excellent job reminding us how great it was in 2013, making us wish that we had gotten this book sooner.

Superman #1 is a delight from start to finish. Williamson and Campbell completely stuff this issue with content, making it worth every cent. The art is mostly gorgeous and the new, but familiar, status quo sets up an engaging story to come.

Superman #2 proves that Lex may have a point to everything hes been yelling in Supermans ear. Jamal Campbells art steals the show yet again, with Ariana Mahers lettering bringing the pages to life.

Superman 2023 Annual is a great break from the focus on the Man of Steel himself, opting to focus on worldbuilding and establishing more of the supporting cast. This issue is a rare occasion when using a variety of artists actually works. The reveals are big and bombastic, yet the odd choice of release date means that many people may accidentally miss out on this one.

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles #2 is a fantastic view into the new life of Michaelangelo, highlighting the power of family.

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles #3 is another great reintroduction to this world, focusing on Leonardo and what makes him who he is, regardless of how far down the rabbit hole he goes.

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles #4 concludes the singularly focused issues of this new initiative with everyones favorite purple masked turtle, showcasing this creative teams love for the franchise.

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Alpha #1 is a blast of an issue, with two great stories that aim to solidify an exciting future for the franchise, appealing to fans new and old.

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles x Stranger Things #1 is an amazing start to a crossover that makes sense on every conceivable level. The characters are all written and drawn in ways that perfectly represent their source material, giving this series a unique sense of authenticity.

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles x Stranger Things #2 continues to highlight all of the aspects that make these two franchises work so well together. The action picks up here, fully displaying the amazing art.

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Nation #1 is a great companion book that catches readers up on events that some thought would have been forgotten after Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles #150.

Nightwatcher #1 is a great new entry into the newest era of Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles that delves into the events of the greater universe.

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: the Last Ronin II - Re-Evolution #1 is a bold new direction for a franchise that has notoriously played it safe. While this issue does a lot of great things, such as setting up new characters, setting the stage by acknowledging what came before, and delivering some crazy action sequences, the heavy use of exposition and plot setup hold it back from being truly great.

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: The Last Ronin II - Re-Evolution #2 introduces something new to TMNT lore that seeks to breathe a new kind of life into the franchise, showing that these long-time creators have some more tricks up their sleeves.

Thanos #1 contains one of the most easy to solve mysteries in comics while also serving as a fun reintroduction to the Mad Titan. The way the story is grounded makes it read like no other Thanos adventure before.

8 Rules To Make It Out In One Piece is a fun look into what these creators are cooking up over at DSTLRY. Charretier and Colinet are clearly having a lot of fun with their creative freedom, mixing comedy and action in a way. And The Devils Cut as a whole is not to be missed; a bold first statement from a promising new publisher.

The Displaced #1 is an excellent introduction to a new story that feels reminiscent of Lost and Under the Dome.

Holy Roller #1 is a wholly unique take on a superhero origin story that mixes comedy, drama, and action in a cinematic way. The book is twice the size of a regular issue without a higher price tag, and is worth every penny.

Return of Superman 30th Anniversary Special #1 elegantly recreates one of the most well known times in comics, delivering what feels like a celebration mixed with retrospective commentary.

The Savage Strength of Starstorm #1 takes everything you love about superheros and science fiction and distills it into a fresh and new adventure. The issue wastes no time in setting everything up from the melodrama to the high flying action.

Titans #13 is a great continuation to this arc, showcasing the multifaceted narrative that has made this run so unique.

Transformers #6 masterfully concludes the first arc of the series, hitting all of the right notes when it comes to storytelling, character progression, and intrigue.

Transformers #8 is a heartfelt continuation to the second arc that identifies the humanity within all of these characters, despite their side in the current conflict.

Transformers #9 is a fantastic, action based chapter in the already amazing Energon Universe iteration of everyones favorite Robots in Disguise. With all of the action backed up by the heart and sole of these characters, this issue continues to identify that this creative team is deserving of the matrix of leadership.

Transformers #10 continues to prove why this is one of the best books on the stands, infusing heart, nuance, and topical political commentary into a universe filled with endless conflict.

Transformers #11 is a fun book that delves deeper into the effects of war, conscientious objection, and the nature of humanity.

Transformers #12 concludes the second arc with a bang, showcasing Optimus Prime as a leader and soldier, highlighting the mature themes in play.

Transformers #14 is a fantastic conclusion to a two issue arc that never feels like filler. The action is top notch and the sky's the limit!

Transformers #15 is a fantastic start to a new arc that showcases all the multifaceted elements that make this story so enjoyable and thought provoking every month.

Trojan is a dark and twisted glimpse into a world of fantasy that depicts some of the darkest desires humanity has to offer. This issue will definitely not be suitable for all audiences but anyone willing to take the dive in will become hooked by the end.

Ultimate Invasion #1 is a must read for fans of the Ultimate universe or just Jonathan Hickman in general. Bryan Hitchs triumphant return to this universe gives the book a nostalgic feel and Andrew Currie, Alex Sinclair, and Joe Caramagna help liven everything to exceptional standards.

Ultimate Invasion #2 explores more facets of The Makers true plans while the universe grows ever more complicated. The large focus on Howard Stark is interesting, but will ultimately be pointless if not paid off later down the line.

Ultimate Invasion #3 is a fascinating look into a moral quandary that seems to be on par with some of the stronger Star Trek episodes; however, Hickmans lack of central focus makes this penultimate issue feel very underwhelming and disappointing. The art team seems to be wasted here, with there being little to no action to highlight their capabilities.

Ultimate Invasion #4 is a mixed bag of flashy concepts with little payoff. Hickman tries once again to start off another epic but may have gone off the rails prematurely.

Ultimate Universe #1 is a step in the right direction from what can only be described as a messy start within the pages of Ultimate Invasion. Though it moves things forward in a way that justifies its existence, Ultimate Universe #1 falls prey to an uneven plot that focuses too much on its characters' interplay rather than the story at hand.

Spider-Man: Unforgiven #1 fits better as a Spider-Man story than it does as the first part of a miniseries about The Forgiven. Fans of Spider-Man will love how Tim Seely writes the character, with Sid Kotians art feeling reminiscent of John Romita Jrs.

Creature From The Black Lagoon Lives! #1 is a great follow up to the previous Universal Monster series, Dracula, that pays homage and builds upon the world of the original movie in a wonderful way.

Creature From The Black Lagoon Lives! #2 establishes one of the most thought provoking tales of the year, elevating its source material to a place that most would never dare to venture.

Universal Monsters: Creature From The Black Lagoon Lives! #3 is a fantastic penultimate issue that provides a thought provoking story, ending on the best cliffhanger of the year so far.

Universal Monsters: Creature From The Black Lagoon Lives! #4 is a fantastic conclusion to a thought-provoking interpretation of a classic horror movie.

Universal Monsters: Frankenstein #1 is a fantastic follow up to the other Universal Monster books, building a new perspective on the classic Frankenstein mythos.

Unstoppable Doom Patrol #1 kicks off a new series with a more grounded, socially conscious approach. This introduction sets up a lot for a bright future that is destined to come for this title.

Unstoppable Doom Patrol #2 continues to build upon the teams new status quo, while also interjecting the weirdness that makes the book so unique. The references to prior continuity and universe shattering art build this up to be a near perfect comic book.

Unstoppable Doom Patrol #3 takes all the action of a Fast and Furious movie and infuses it with this series charm. The themes continue to stand tall while the art team blows away every page and panel.

Unstoppable Doom Patrol #4 takes a break from the larger narrative to give us some personal character growth for the team. The art team does a great job in highlighting the different aspects of the characters while the issue as a whole builds appreciation for the team.

Unstoppable Doom Patrol #5 is an excellent distillation of what makes this series unique and so enjoyable. This creative team are all on the same page in regards to the profound subtext, keeping this series as relevant as it is a pure joy to read.

Unstoppable Doom Patrol #6 is a fun homage back to classic X-Men books that were inversely inspired by the original Doom Patrol. The art continues to be the highlight of the series, with Burnham and Reber infusing so much life and nuance into this world.

Unstoppable Doom Patrol #7 fantastically concludes one of the Dawn of DCs first stories. This book is exemplary of what made this series so fantastic, highlighting a future for these characters that only these creators can deliver.

Void Rivals #1 is more than just an entry point for the new Energon Universe, serving as an excellent example of how characters provide a better story than anything else. The art team knocks it out of the park, with vast, open landscapes looking beautiful in every panel.

Void Rivals #7 picks up the threads from the first arc and delivers on its excellent premise by setting up an intriguing new direction.

Void Rivals #9 is a blast from start to finish. Depicting some of the best action that this series has seen so far, the introduction of Springer makes for one of the best moments in comics this year.

Void Rivals #10 is an action packed, plot heavy issue that does an excellent job using its art and nuance to establish a firm lore that feels well earned and befitting of the franchise.

Void Rivals #11 is a beauty to look at while also being a fantastic read, showcasing all of the best elements of this series.

Void Rivals #12 serves as an epilogue to the second arc, setting up a future that pushes the characters in all different directions with major implications to the greater universe.

Void Rivals #13 is a lot of setting up, but it does so in a way that builds intrigue for the arc to come. Finally, all of The Energon Universe is coming together!

Void Rivals #14 will be a lot of fun for those heavily invested in the month-to-month read of the series, picking up directly after the last issue.

Wilds End #1 is a perfect jumping on point for new fans, as well as a fun follow up to the series that came before. The storytelling and characterization works perfectly for an introductory issue, with the art building on everything in a wonderful and concise manner.

Wilds End #2 is a great example of how strong characters can help drive a story. The issue wastes a lot of time retreading over storied ground, but it ends up topside with the compelling art and characters making this tale very engaging.

WildCATs #3 will appease '90s comics fans but after three issues, the creative team still hasnt done anything to justify this titles existence. The action is fun and the witty banter is enjoyable but dont read this looking for any strong substance.

Wonder Woman #10 serves as a fantastic conclusion to the second arc with excellent character moments in both the main story and the backup.

Wonder Woman #11 is fun for readers of the ongoing series as well as fans of the Absolute Power event that are looking to see how the events conflict effects the greater DC universe.

Wonder Woman #12 is a fun look into the minds of Wonder Woman and Robin as they utilize their different tactics to attempt to gather information about Wallers whereabouts.

Wonder Woman #14 is an astonishingly dense issue that somehow feels well paced and will go down as a top ten comic of the year.

Wonder Woman #15 showcases the beginning of the end for The Sovereign, opting to highlight the supporting cast as the series mirrors events from earlier on.

Wonder Woman #16 is a lot of fun, especially for those who love Tom Kings takes on more obscure DC characters.

X-Men: Days of Future Past Doomsday #1 is a fun throwback to a simpler time in X-Mens history, with great art reflecting that. Unfortunately, the story features little substance with the issue mainly containing just a list of events.