For all its merits, Wyrd #2's approach of style over substance is lacking. There are traces of a quality story here, which may yet prove itself in future issues, but issue 2 isn't it.

Future State: Shazam! #1 is a genuinely good first issue with enough breadcrumbs and reveals to warrant picking up the second issue to see where things lead.

Future State: The Flash #2 has slivers of intriguing content, but most of the issue is at odds with itself.

Long-time Spawn fans will be pleased with The Scorched #1, with their years of fandom and knowledge of the characters helping elevate the story. But newcomers may feel out of sorts and left wanting. While the idea of The Scorched was meant to reach lofty goals, the result is anything but. There is plenty to improve upon as the series continues, but TheScorched #1 doesn't deliver as expected in its opening chapter.

The greatest singular description of this title is "Potential." No comic is flawless, and Age of Conan: Belit #1 doesn't re-invent the wheel, but a keen eye can see the (wait for it...) potential. While it may not be an easy read for everyone that aforementioned spark remains. A fire might be building, and it could be Belit.

If nothing else, Assassin Nation is pure, simple escapism catered to fans seeking a straight forward story of revenge. There's nothing wrong with that, on a surface level. However, with a bevy of books on the shelves garnering readers' attention, Assassin Nation may get lost in the shuffle for not providing the depth most mature readers have grown accustomed to.

Avengers #41 is a single-issue microcosm of Aaron's run with the team: a solid outing, but there could be more.

For the time being Batman #61 is a strong, yet dubious, beginning to the Knightmares arc, with promises that have yet to be fulfilled. My interest is piqued, but the issue will assuredly become forgettable.

Batman Secret Files #1 works well enough for what it is at its very nature: a collection of work. The quality varies greatly from poor to excellent. Two of the stories fail to hit their mark, two stories are solid outings, and one is highly successful. Despite the various quality of work, the issue is worth a read, serving as a litmus test of creative combinations that could be commissioned for future Batman outings.

Disaster Inc. #1 has its drawbacks, but any harsh criticisms should be mollified by the fact that the issue is only a small part of a whole. On its own, this introduction issue feels lackluster, but considering that the issue is meant to set the stage for a more comprehensive narrative, many of its hindrances can be forgiven. There is enough here to garner interest and give the series a chance.

I'm in love with the narrative, but the mercurial art style corrupts the experience.

A solid outing for Hellboy that is a fun read and a welcome addition to Hellboy lore.

Despite some foibles, Batman vs. Bigby #1 is a commendable opening chapter in what should be an entertaining miniseries.

The narrative pieces are starting to come together, and there is more than enough in issue # 2 to pique fans' interest in investing in the series.

Buckhead #1 is a solid undertaking that captures readers' attention and takes a novel approach to the genre.

While Deathstroke Inc. may appear formulaic to a seasoned comic reader, part of its appeal is how it leans into expectations and provides a joyride from start to finish. Some of the pending "twists" seem evident, but I'm curious to see how it plays out, nonetheless. "Suburban Horror" ends with a preview of things to come, and if the snippets they provided are any indication, Deathstroke Inc. could work its way onto my pull list.

If nothing else, I enjoyed my time with the book and look forward to seeing where the road the series laid out eventually leads to.

It may not be for everybody, but Monkey Prince #1 is a solid start to what ideally will be a robust new addition to the DC mythos.

Overall, RV9 has some apparent growing problems, but there is enough here to justify a read. The first issue does just enough to warrant a purchase, and I have confidence that the series as a whole will only pick up steam with every subsequent issue. RV9 #1 is a solid first effort for a series and a studio that is beginning to make a name for itself.

A fun ride that taps into the best of your nostalgia.

Featuring monsters, mystery, and a dystopian future, Deep Beyond is a significant first issue that lays down narrative breadcrumbs to have readers following along.

Despite a few minor foibles, Deep Beyond #2 effortlessly escalates the narrative and compels readers to see the story through to the end. Strong art, fleshed-out characters, and a story that pulls you further in with every new entry make Deep Beyond #2 worth your time.

A deep mystery set in space combining horror, science fiction, and mystery to deliver a fresh take on all the genres.

Sideways Annual #1 does have a few minor hiccups but successfully continues to build on the ongoing journey of Derek James, DC's neophile hero.

The story never lets up, the scenes are as tense as they come, and the mystery around "the variance" event is engrossing. Dark Blood #1 is the perfect opening salvo for a series with genuine potential.

A bold narrative that blends real-world history, Science fiction, and a character-driven narrative.

A strong introduction to two new Suicide Squad stories readers will want to see through to the end.

Suicide Squad: Black Files is a fine addition to the Suicide Squad series. The title has the potential to be an enticing ongoing series.

The effort was made, but the closer the story reaches its pinnacle the more evident it becomes that the Suicide Squad Black Files fails to add any depth to the Suicide Squad.

Jordan and Isaacs cram a lot of story and art into one book -- maybe too much, but why complain about too much of a good thing?

Issue #9 continues to build on the lore of Sideways while piquing interest towards what comes next.

A necessary step forward for establishing Sideways' character and building his world.

Sideways # 11 is easily the next phase of Sideways' story, reaching a new height and pushing Derek's world to a more dynamic and compelling frontier.

A fun look into the relationship between Thor and Loki with the "What If" twist.

Beyond the confines of genre definitions, Andolfo is weaving a fabulous story full of intrigue, strong characterization, and scene defining conflict.

'Mercy' #3 builds on the firm foundation of its predecessors. If this doesn't hook you, nothing will.

The culmination of five issues comes to a head. Striking visuals, plot twists, and emotional conflict are at the heart of the story.

Admittedly, Mercy #6 isn't for everyone. It isn't for the casual reader or the fan only interested in people wearing costumes. However, this issue delivers on the promise of rich themes and characters you can't help but invest in. A series is only as good as its finish. If that holds true, then Mercy #6 and the entirety of the series is a success.

Batman: Curse of the White Knight is a deep cut, shining a light on all aspects of the Batman mythos. The very fabric of a city, religion, the definition of a hero are explored. The first issue sets the pieces in place for another epic story arc that reconsiders how we look at Batman. Writer Sean Murphy continues to prove his prowess as an artist in several respects with Batman: Curse of the White Knight Book One.

Plenty of comics are striving for readers attention, but Books of Magic #3 stands out among them. If you're looking for a comic outside of the standard superhero genre, Books of Magic has it all. Magic, mystery, and sincere character work makes Books of Magic a must-read. Give Tim's tale of death and consequences a chance and you will not be disappointed.

It's been said that everything's been done, but Hidden Society does things differently and with enough nuance and flourish to separate itself from the pack.

To what extent do the ends justify the means? Is one man's homeland security another man's extreme police state? Hardcore #1 doesn't pretend to have all the answers, but if relevant themes, intense action, and a well-paced narrative are your thing, you've come to the right place.

If frenzied action, espionage, and intricate plots interest you, then Hardcore #2 ticks all the proverbial boxes.

The stakes are raised and the next issue can't come soon enough.

With only its fourth issue to hit comic stands, Hardcore continues to be a must-read book for fans willing (or looking) for an alternative to the tried and true world of superheroes. The only question that remains: How will Drake survive what Diggle concocts next?

There is no such thing as a perfect comic book, but Hardcore #5 is the conclusion the first arc needed. Hardcore wears its intentions on its metaphorical sleeve as a comic book meant to pay homage to best and brightest the action film genre has to offer. Mission accomplished.

I have little doubt that with each new entry Brandon Thomas and Khary Randolph can put their own indelible mark on this new world of politics, drama, and magic.

The Low DownWith so much going for it, it's hard to deny how impressive Excellence #3 proves to be. Gorgeous art, a well-paced story, moving themes, and over-the-top magic action add to the titles growing likeability. If Excellence #3's cliffhanger is any indication, fans are in store for even more gratifying storytelling come next month. If there's room on your pull list, even if there isn't, do yourself a favor and give Excellence #3 a chance.

Overall, I enjoyed my time with Thor #9, the departure from focusing on the title character works, for the most part. Aaron continues to build (slowly I might add) elements of the looming War of Realms. It won't surprise me if fans who came seeking Thor in a monumental battle are disappointed. Another minor gripe is that the Thor book feels like a precursor to the War of Realms Event, rather than a title with its own identity. If nothing else, Aaron continues to place all the pieces on the board before unleashing hell.

A rare achievement in humanizing gods, excelling the action, and touching audiences.

Rick Remender uses Black Science to present some rich philosophical queries that have been wrestled with for centuries, particularly the notion that life is an illusion. However, rather than beat readers over the head, he uses such a timeless hypothesis to tell a grounded story steeped in morality, humanity, and the love of a family. With the majority of Black Science's story in the rearview mirror, Black Science sets the stage for the climactic finish that waits down a winding road. If nothing else, Issue 39 should incentivize readers to catch up on one of Remender's best works to date.

Black Science has hooked fans from the very start with its weighty subject matter combined with pure science fiction fun. Black Science #41 captures the emotional undertones of the series while preparing for the inevitable two-part conclusion. We're sad to see the Black Science go, but happy in knowing that the series is going out on such a high note. Black Science #41 is an unmissable chapter to one of Remender's best works to date.

Remender and Scalera have unsurprisingly added another masterful chapter to Black Science with issue #42. The issue toes the line between pushing the story forward in a natural manner and continuing to satisfy what fans want from the series. Non-stop action, thematic storytelling, and a character-driven narrative define Black Science #42. With only one comic left in the series, Black Science #42 sets the stage for a climactic finish.

Black Science is one of the most sensational comics on the shelves today and more than deserving of a read. Rick Remender and Matteo Scalera have crafted a damn fine graphic novel.

Returning the X-Men to form.