"Chew" wraps up its penultimate arc, "Last Suppers" with a surprising and emotional read. The fallout is going to have a big impact on how the final arc plays out. This is one of those powerful issues that only "Chew" seems capable of pulling off regularly. The comic is made more dramatic with the exceptional artwork as Guillory continues to churn out issue after issue of some of the best artwork in the business. This is a great issue in a great series. It will be a sad day when this comic comes to a close.

"Dark Knight III: The Master Race" raises the stakes in terms of tension and plot in the third issue. Once again, the comic provides a mini-comic and heavy paper for the cover and interiors to help give a little more bang for your six bucks. The comic goes over familiar territory where old heroes dust off their gear to save Earth one last time. However, there are a couple of interesting twists as things begin to heat up to set this story apart from previous ones. The artwork is good, but the presentation with the heavy page and mini-comic and big splash pages help to make the comic seem closer to epic in nature. This is worth a look if you don't mind paying the six bucks. It looks like this is going to be a mini-series that you don't want to miss.

"Star Wars" starts a new arc with this issue. This issue doesn't have much action and is mostly setup. The book introduces the rebel's prison and some of the security that will surely get put to the test in short order. Luke and Han are on their own mission that involves a diversion that lands them into trouble. The comic is fine but is definitely looking like this arc will be much tamer than the previous ones. This was bound to happen. Eventually you run out of major characters that can fight each other. You've got to start telling smaller stories. This appears to be one. This is worth a look.

"The Mighty Thor" provides an excellent read this time out as a lot of plots are beginning to come to a head. Freyja is on trial and has a great confrontation with her husband. Thor can't save the light elves from the darkness. Thor loses her patience with things and starts a major development at the book's conclusion. When you add excellent artwork to the mix you have a very good comic book. If you aren't reading this title then you are missing out. I definitely recommend picking this up.

"Batman" brings Bruce Wayne face to face with Alfred with the Batman identity hanging in the balance. Bruce wants Batman back at any cost while Alfred simply can't let the new Bruce Wayne go. It's a touching issue that reveals a lot about what the pair think of Batman and each other. The comic book has guest art that is gorgeous but doesn't provide the same epic feel that Capullo has the knack for doing. This is a very good comic book to pick up. Especially if you are interested in hearing how Bruce Wayne defines the meaning of Batman to the city of Gotham. I enjoyed the comic.

"Darth Vader" opens a new arc with an issue that is very new reader friendly. The comic gives some setup from The Emperor, it provides some action and a little bit of Vader being intimidating. It's a solid read. However, there isn't anything new in here. In fact, a lot of the plot seems like it could easily fit in with Lando and Bespin had Bespin been a resource that the Empire needed. The comic is an average read, but if you are looking to jump onto this comic then this is a perfect issue for that and there is something to be said for that. Give is a shot.

"Obi-Wan and Anakin" produces a second issue that brings more danger to the pair, but also brings more characters into the fray. The pair find themselves with warring rivals. This leads them to attempting to keep peace while trying to escape the hostile environment of native creatures and dangerous elements. The comic draws a lot of parallels between the current situation and the future of the Jedi, Sith and Obi-Wan and Anakin's relationship. It's a good read, especially if you are into expanding on the lead character's interactions that the films didn't cover. I'm not sure this book has a wider appeal because it is fairly average in terms of plot and excitement. Give it a shot.

"Walking Dead" provides an exciting opening to this issue. The group are training with zombies when things get out of hand. The remainder of the issue is much slower as Rick gathers information and has conversations with various characters. The comic struggles with the larger cast, especially when it tries to bring the other communities into the mix. Without the deep character looks that Kirkman previously provided, each of these characters, outside of the core few, feel so generic. This has been a problem with the series for a number of years now and the problem is beginning to multiple with each individual issue. The artwork is very strong, especially with the heavy action in the beginning of the book. I recommend checking this out, but this is as average an issue of "Walking Dead" that you will find.

Anthologies are always a tricky proposition. "Hellboy: Winter Special" offers three short stories and one two-page story. They showcase a wide range of writers and artists and mostly center around Mike Mignola creations, two contain Hellboy. There isn't a dud in the bunch, but there isn't anything too memorable either. This is a decent read for four bucks if you like Hellboy and other Mike Mignola ideas.

"Old Man Logan" launches with a very strong first issue. The premise is a straight-up revenge story and this comic is a good first step. Reading "Secret Wars" or the arc, "Old Man Logan" don't seem to be required to come into this comic. This means anyone can pick this comic book up, which is a good thing. The comic will set you back five dollars but the story is a good one. The artwork really struggles in the opening pages, but picks up, especially with the grizzly images at the book's end. This is definitely a strong offering and looks to be a serious to watch.

"Batman" continues the story where Bloom is defeating Gordon while Bruce struggles with his memory and his destiny. The comic has an excellent component where the story alternates between Bruce coming to terms with who he really is while Gordon is losing the battle against Bloom. The comic is backed up with fantastic artwork and provides an excellent final page. The comic's drawback is how Bloom's role in the plot just seems so secondary to getting Bruce back into the Bat suit. The villain just seems too odd with too strange of a means to destroying the population of Gotham for a Batman story. It will be interesting to see how this ends. This is a good comic and one that is worth a read.

"Devolution" is the latest flawed-future comic from Rick Remender. Life has returned to the days of cavemen except for a precious few that are fighting to survive and live by their own rules. The comic is a great start to the high concept, but does use heavy narration to explain the current state of things. The artwork is also good, but seems to be so heavily inked. Overall, this is a book to pick up and a series to keep your eye on. Remender has a history of ripping apart his characters and I suspect this comic will be no different.

"Silver Surfer" launches with a fun read. The comic book lets the reader get to know Surfer and his human friend, Dawn, while stopping a couple of bad guys here and there. The supporting cast, Dawn's family, also gets an introduction as the plot begins to unfold. The comic's story is a fairly simple one as an alien force is sucking the culture off of Earth. The book has a couple of unique surprises to make the comic memorable. The artwork contributes a creative and colorful presentation that rounds out the read. Overall, this is a good comic in what looks to be a good series. I'd give this comic a try.

"Star Wars" comes out of the "Vader Down" crossover with a one-shot about Obi-Wan watching over young Luke. The comic provides some of the same old characters that you have come to expect from Luke's home world during this time period. The highlight of the comic is Owen's confrontation with Obi-Wan. The comic has some humor and some good moments and a touch of action. The book is presented with a beautiful style of artwork that really makes this comic come alive. Overall, the story and the moments aren't really anything that hasn't been covered in comics, short stories or novels before. This is a decent read but nothing terribly different.

"The Walking Dead" hits its big anniversary issue with a bit of a turning point in the story line. Rick reveals his plan to arm and train a dedicated army. However, Rick is attacked in the issue that leads to a very bloody and gruesome fight. This may not be highest level or suspense this comic book has seen, but the images are very memorable. This is a good read and seems to move the overall story along quite a bit. I recommend checking this, over-sized, three dollar comic.

"Obi-Wan & Anakin" launches with a slow start as the pair crash on an abandoned planet and have a discussion. The discussion leads to an interesting flashback, but not much else happens. The comic is good because it focuses on a time period that seems to be forgotten in the old and new Expanded Universe of books and comics. The dialogue is good as it hits the right notes with the relationship of this Master and Learner and it is backed up with strong artwork. The issue is a setup issue and that's what it boils down to. Hopefully things will pick up in the coming issues.

"Conan The Avenger" tells a self-contained story about Conan getting crucified. The comic excels on taking the reader through the trials of facing death. The book digs into the character's head as he comes up with an idea for escape, battles through the pain, only to find failure staring him in the face. The comic book is as good as it gets for going for a punch in the gut. This is a read that requires no previous knowledge of the character or the story line. I recommend picking this up to find out what Conan is all about.

"Chewbacca" wraps up with a decent, but average read. The book confirms the cute bond between Chewie and the little girl, Zarro. The comic puts the characters in situations that make it a little easier to get out of than potentially makes sense. The book has a lengthy epilogue that adds a little bit to the character of Chewie but it hard to reconcile with the light-hearted nature of the comic. This comic is a noble effort but an average read.

"DK III: The Master Race" is a very good read. The comic answers some questions about what happened to Batman and it brings the master race aspect of the story into clearer focus. The comic does a good job balancing the three character's story lines as they start to come together. The artwork and the comic's presentation are fantastic as everything from the weight of the paper to the mini-comic are of the highest quality. The third installment of the Dark Knight saga is shaping up to be worthy of the hype. I definitely recommend checking this out.

"Darth Vader" brings a fast read with the fourth part of "Vader Down." The comic is entertaining and is supported by realistic and lively artwork. The comic doesn't really move the plot forward much and feels like a filler issue. Overall, the comic is not as strong as the previous parts in this storyline but is worth giving a try,

The "Darth Vader" annual is a fine read. It's thirty pages for five dollars and you get a lot of Vader cutting down some characters that won't play nicely with the Empire. This comic isn't anything you haven't seen before, but if you read it you will most likely get some entertainment. The artwork provides some epic Vader images but struggles with details in a number of spots, which usually smells of a rush-job. This is a decent comic book to check out but nothing memorable.

While the new Star Wars movie is out this week you also can grab the latest issue of "Kanan." Set in the Clone Wars, this issue works on his master, Depa, and her reimaging. The comic also grows a bond between Kanan and the clones, which is important when Order 66 hits. The characters are well-defined and provide a level of complexity that helps this ordinary story stand out a little more. With detailed artwork that highlights the action and compliments the character's personalities, you have a winning formula. I enjoyed this comic book and definitely enjoyed the new Depa and her Obi-Wan/Qui-Gon qualities. If you like the Clone Wars then this is a good comic to pick up.

"Superman: American Alien" provides a powerful issue that gives a look at Clark's teenage years. With Clark's powers still developing he is both physically vulnerable and mentally underdeveloped. The comic balances Clark's social life with his struggles with his powers and responsibilities. The book gets very dark by the end when Clark tracks down the cold hearted killers. The comic has some detailed and dramatic art that goes very well with the story. This is a little bit of a different look at Clark Kent, but it still manages to capture the innocence and the core values that the character is generally known for possessing. This is definitely a great comic to pick up.

"The Goddamned" provides another violent and tough read. This one focuses on the complexity of the character of Noah. The book really mixes his brutality well with his soft side for animals. The comic has powerful artwork that adds a deeper layer to the violence in the story. This is not for the timid. The story could be a classic in the making. This is a good issue to pick up.

"Batman" seems to wrap up the Bloom plot and the Wayne amnesia subplot in this issue. The comic has a lot of action as Bat-Gordon takes on Bloom, but it also has some very symbolic moments as Wayne regains some of his memories. The comic is backed up with terrific visuals from Capullo. The comic doesn't quite sell how Wayne recovers his memory and it also suffers from a very poorly constructed villain in Bloom. This is a decent, but average read in the series from this creative team. I mildly recommend it.

The "Star Wars" Annual is a spy comic book. The lead character is an obscure spy that blows his cover to take on an important mission that puts him in the direct path of the Emperor. The comic is a nice idea and makes good use of newer characters, but is riddled with plot holes and odd decisions from the characters. The reader simply has to plow through this and pretend things make sense. I'm not sure which plot point is more unbelievable: Leia recruiting a spy for a job, who operates outside the detention center, when a spy is already inside the detention center as a guard or the fact that the Empire doesn't notice missing guards or a giant hole in the side of the detention center as the Emperor meets with the prisoners. The comic is a five-dollar book and really isn't worth it. This is a strange choice of comic to put on the shelves as the movie hits the theaters. I can't recommend this comic book.

"The Violent" is a comic book that takes a struggling couple and throws every temptation it can at them. The pair are trying to stay off drugs, stay out of jail and make ends meet for their young daughter. Life has a way of finding your weaknesses and exposing them as is the case in this book. If you like reading comics that are about real people with some tough times playing out in the panels then this is the book for you. The title is a little misleading for this issue as there is hardly any violence in the comic. However, the story within is a very punch-in-the-gut kind of read. I highly recommend picking this up.

"The Walking Dead" finally brings Negan to the center of attention in this issue. Rick seeks some advice from everyone's favorite inmate and the pair doesn't disappoint with some heated and tense dialogue. The rest of the issue has some tame subplots and some odd decision making from the characters to bring the read down to Earth. Overall, the comic is a solid, but average read. It will be interesting to see what the anniversary issue has in store for the readers next month.

"Red Wolf" is a very ordinary western comic book. The lead character isn't trusted by townspeople that look for any way they can to pin every crime on a Native American. The book tries too hard to present a man that is trying to do the right thing and win over the public at the same time. The comic doesn't present anything new to the idea or the genre. The ending is a strange one and could create a different direction for the next issue. The artwork does a great job capturing the mood and time period. I was looking for this comic to bring something a little different to the western genre. This is a fairly average comic book.

"Vader Down" continues with an issue mostly focused on Han's rescue of Luke. The comic book is a fun read because it adds in some humor and a decent amount of action. The book depicts Han, Aphra, Beetee, R2, Chewis and Triple-Zero really well as these characters all contribute in making this a lively read. I recommend checking this comic book out. The crossover is shaping up to be a classic in the making.

"The Sheriff of Babylon" launches with one of the best comics I've read all year. The comic book introduces three characters and ties them together by the issue's end. In between are three unique, but equally dramatic mini-stories that tell the reader a lot about what the character's motives and backgrounds are. The comic is supported by tremendous art that brings a higher level of tension with the finely detailed facial features. Whether you like war and/or political comics or not this is a series that simply shouldn't be missed.

"Totally Awesome Hulk" is a very average first offering. The book is over-priced at five-dollars but includes ten extra story pages. The comic takes Amadeus Cho and dumbs down his intellect to the point where he appears to only be after sex. The comic has a lot of action and the artwork provides some great visual in that department. The art also conveys the quiet scenes between Amadeus and his sister perfectly to round out the art in the book. I'm not sure what to make of this series and the direction for Amadeus. If you are a fan of the character you might be a little surprised at what you find here. This is an average read.

"DK III: The Master Race" kicks off with a thirty-page comic with a twelve-page mini-comic for six bucks. The issue is mostly setup as it provides the dilemma at hand and rolls out some of the key players. The artwork tries to replicate the original "Dark Knight" look but doesn't quite rise above the normal dark Batman comic book. The comic is a decent read but doesn't measure up to the hype yet. You should still pick this up because it might become a classic even if it isn't there just yet.

"Moon Girl and Devil Dinosaur" is a comic book title that sounds like it could be a lot of fun and the initial issue delivers on that prospect. The reader gets to know a new character, Lunella Lafayette, and the cast around her as well as the general set up of the Jack Kirby creations of Moon-Boy and Devil Dinosaur. The comic book is energetic and charming and brings the reader into a world that has a ton of possibilities, all of which appear to be fun. The artwork provides an all ages element to the story without coming across as cartoony. This is definitely a book to keep an eye on and an issue to pick up. This is undeniably something different in the Marvel Universe.

"Narcopolis: Continuum" is a four-issue mini-series based on the UK sci-fi thriller. The comic book covers the science fiction and thriller aspects very well with the first issue, but it also provides a good mystery. The lead character, Ben, is a drug maker that wants to determine what happened to his father, so he creates a time travel drug. Ben finds some things he probably wasn't expecting as the ending presents more questions than answers for Ben. The comic has a good pace and introduces the plot and characters in a natural way. The artwork provides a dramatic and realistic story that enhances the read. I recommend checking this comic book out whether you've seen the film or not. This comic is a compelling and fascinating read. Check it out.

"Vader Down" continues in this issue of "Darth Vader" with another excellent installment. Vader takes down more and more Rebels while Han and Leia debate how to handle Luke being missing in action. The artwork takes this issue to another level as it presents a detailed and polished look that is as good as you'll ever see in a Star Wars comic. The crossover has four parts remaining and is shaping up to be a classic in the making. I definitely recommend this comic book.

"Batman: Europa" kicks off the four-part mini-series with a classic rendering of Batman and The Joker. The pair are infected with a deadly disease and appear to need each other in order to solve the case. The comic book has a painted, but classic look to the artwork as the book has a timelessness to it. The comic book doesn't break any story barriers and does feel like any number of other Batman stories that have come before it. If you are looking for a more classic version of Batman that is continuity free and involves The Joker then this comic is one to check out. I recommend giving it a look.

"Ms Marvel" is back with a thirty-page, five-dollar comic book. Readers from the previous series will feel right at home as the vibe of the book continues on. However, newer readers will not get what this book is truly about because the book spends most of the time building up the relationship of two of Ms Marvel's supporting cast and leaves the main character in the background. The comic book is a decent read but doesn't do anything to elevate it to the must-read status that the previous run held for so long. The charm is there, the intelligence is there, but the focus of the comic is not. Hopefully the next issue will get back to showcasing Kamala and what makes her such an interesting and powerfully constructed character.

"Vader Down" is a great comic book that sets the stage for the six-part crossover. Vader is on his own looking for Luke when he comes across a nest of Rebels. Vader becomes stranded but he is still the favorite to come out on top it seems. The book throws in all the major players as the book provides something for fans of Luke, Han and Leia as well. The comic is a fast-paced, action-packed, thrill ride that delivers on the inflated $5 cover charge. This is a classic in the making and I urge old and new fans to take a look at.

"The Mighty Thor" is off to a strong start. Jane Foster is battling cancer, while fighting off politicians and anti-Thor resentment throughout the Realms. The comic moves through the character introduction, character building, plot creation and villain plotting while still handing over some action to provide a complete read. The artwork rounds out the reading experience nicely. Overall, this is good value for your $5 and is worth a look.

"Batman" continues to explore a number of plots in the current issue. The primary one has Gordon taking on Mr. Bloom in a strong confrontation with a very weak setup. The comic struggles to provide convincing arguments or explanations for decisions the characters make and that hold this issue back. The artwork helps to deliver a strong visual story to balance out the weaker script. Overall, this is a very average read in what is proving to be an average arc. They all can't be blockbusters.

"Superman: American Alien" kicks off the series of one-shots by taking a look at the early days of Clark's childhood when he learns to fly. The book explores his relationship with his parents and is a coming of age type story. The artwork is gorgeous. It captures the frightening proposition of a kid going through unexplained changes. I liked this issue and if you are looking for a lighter look at Clark and his beginnings then I urge you to pick this up.

"Walking Dead" provides another engaging, but fairly tame read. This comic has a big fight as Rick communicates his non-action plan for dealing with Alpha. The book does a good job at putting Rick's feet to the fire, but doesn't execute the fight all that well as it resembled an old school wrestling battle royale. The artwork does a pretty good job at keeping the pace up. Overall, this is a decent read.

"The Goddamned" opens with a loud bang as the issue presents a Hell-on-Earth look at the past. The world seems to be inhabited by cavemen that are holding onto their most primal instincts. However, the protagonist is Cain. This version of Cain is a pretty boy that seems to have moves that resemble Bruce Lee. The two don't mix well in this comic and the book struggles to define itself as a result. The antagonist reveal at the end doesn't really help the pretty boy image that Cain is presented with in the book either. The artwork by Guera is tremendous and it shows in the amazing details page after page. This is a comic book to give a look but doesn't appear to have the same level of first issue craziness of Aaron's other books like "Scalped" or "Southern Bastards." Give it a try.

"Drax" starts out with a very solid first issue. Drax finds himself on a break from the Guardians and decides to embark on a quest to find and kill Thanos. This comic provides some action, good characterizations and launches the plot for the book. The artwork helps to round out the reading experience nicely. This series is off to a good start.

"Extraordinary X-Men" is off to a very slow start. The comic focuses on rounding up X-Men veterans while peppering in rescue missions of newer characters. Storm leads the team and she gets a lot panel time in the comic but she isn't established in any unique way. The pencils are great in some sequences and lacking detail in others. The comic is priced at five dollars for thirty pages of story and it really isn't worth it. I would sit this out and wait to see if the story gets off the ground in any meaningful way.

"Klaus" introduces the reader to the lead character and presents him with the problem. It's a fast-paced read, with a couple of surprises and with some solid characterizations. It's hard to imagine how Morrison is going to wrap everything up (pun intended) in just six issues as this feels like it could have been ten or twelve issues. If you have any interest in seeing Santa as Conan and learning about his secret origin then I urge you to pick this up. This is a wild comic. Boom! has another hit on its hands.

"Star Wars" is a fun read. This issue has wall-to-wall action and it makes the comic book a great read. This comic doesn't have a big reveal or any deep plot development or characterizations and it doesn't make a bit of difference because the book is great anyway. When you think of what makes Star Wars great, its the creativity and the action and this comic has both of them. This is one of the best issues in the run so far. I highly recommend checking this comic out.

The finale of the Bendis run on the X-Men concludes in this over-sized issue of "Uncanny X-Men" with no resolution to any sort of story as far as I can tell. This comic doesn't read as an ending or an epilogue. It reads like an incomplete series of dramatic conversations. I'm not sure what the hype was all about for this comic or why the issue was so badly delayed, presumably, for Secret Wars, but this is a poor comic book. At six dollars you get a black and white comic in the back by Mary Jo Duffy and George Perez that might have some minor appeal but this overall comic book is a dud. I can't recommend this comic book at all.

"Black Magick" is a great first issue. The comic book introduces an extremely strong lead character backed up with incredible artwork. The comic's plot is a hostage scene that brings a tense situation to a dramatic conclusion in the same issue. The comic is a complete read with a ton of back matter about the series and the universe that the creator's are establishing. This is an issue to pick up.

"Ringside" is a realistic drama set in the world just outside the wrestling ring. Keatinge and Barber present a modern-noir comic book that mixes gritty characters, realistic situations and goes to the dark corners of life that people try to avoid. This comic delivers a compelling first issue and the series promises to be a deep and emotional ride. This is a first issue that is definitely worth picking up.

"Chewbacca" is a comic that features great artwork but a badly executed story. The story has confusing choices that the characters make that are compounded by a poorly conceived rescue operation plot. The book seems to struggle with presenting a story through a child's eyes as it deals with some fairly adult material (is it typical to have a character call someone a bastard in Star Wars?). This series needs a tighter script and editorial hand because the art can only save so much issue to issue. I do not recommend this comic.

"Astonishing Ant-Man" is a fun read. The comic is a character-centered story where Scott Lang and his personal life are the primary focus. The plot in this comic is hatched from the angle where old grudges come back to haunt Lang. The book has some interesting ideas in here as well, such as the villain-finder app. Overall, if you like books that are character focused and you don't mind some sarcasm and snark then this is the book for you. I recommend checking this out.

"Clean Room" marks the first ongoing Gail Simone series at Vertigo and it is off to a great start. Simone introduces a cache of interesting and well-defined characters while setting the stage for a super-natural story that cloaks itself in a religious cult. The comic provides some detailed pencils that hit the mark particularly well in two terrifying images. Overall, this is a fun, but in a chilling way, read. "Clean Room" is not a comic book to pass on.

"Shattered Empire" wraps up the four-issue, mini-series of one-shots with a great look at Luke Skywalker. The comic has Luke and Shara retrieve something that the Emperor had stolen from the Jedi temple. The assumption is that this item will play a role in the upcoming film, but we are left to guess as to it's meaning based on this comic. The comic leaves Shara largely under-used, but nails the characterization of Skywalker. The book has plot holes and poorly constructed action sequences. On the other hand, the comic looks and feels like Star Wars as the art depicts the universe extremely well. At the end of the day, this issue is an average Star Wars comic book that doesn't provide much more than some Luke Skywalker action and a tease of what might come in the new movie. This was a fine read.

"Batman" provides an entertaining and compelling read this month. Gordon finds himself in hot water with villains and with his boss. Things seem to be going poorly for Gordon, while the life of Bruce Wayne couldn't be going better. This comic is one of the strongest reads month after month, but that is as much because of the artwork as it is for the storytelling. I highly recommend checking this issue out.

"Chewbacca" is a mini-series that features a solo mission for Chewie. He ends up on a planet unexpectedly and finds that there is some local unrest in an especially touchy subject: slavery. The comic book introduces the characters, the problem and the plot for the mini-series in short order. However, the flow of the comic book seems to be an unnatural one as the story makes big jumps panel to panel. Characters are talking about a debt in one panel, enslaved in the next, escaping in the next and chased in the next. The comic is fairly jarring. The mini-series has plenty of time to tell a compelling story and with the strong character work and appropriate artwork presented here, the comic can certainly turn things into gold very quickly. I mildly recommend this comic.

"Superman: Lois and Clark" is a comic book for the fans of the characters in the Pre New 52 DC Universe. That isn't to say that only those fans will enjoy this comic book because the characters are in the current incarnation of the DC Universe and may play an important role there going forward. The book provides solid writing and solid artwork but focuses on establishing these characters rather than a plot. Now that they have done that, the comic book needs to show what it can do with this type of cloaked super hero. I recommend giving this a read, especially if you enjoy the classic characterizations of Superman and Lois Lane.

"The Walking Dead" provides an issue where Rick and Michonne reveal their darkest feelings to each other. This probably isn't the best issue to ship the same week as the premier of the TV show because it isn't new reader friendly. However, for the long time reader you will find some important moments that probably have needed to happen for years. The comic moves the plot forward a little with the tension between Rick and the town people that want action against Lydia's mom and her people. The artwork delivers extremely well for an issue that's absent action. Overall, this is worth a read but the new readers might not find the emotional punch that the issue packs that the seasoned reader will find. I recommend this comic book.

"Contest of Champions" delivers a very average first issue. The premise of having characters fighting either against their will or for some carrot being dangled in front of them is an old one. This issue doesn't bring anything new to the table for that idea. This comic takes a few obscure characters and focuses on them while some of the better known characters make appearances to keep things interesting. The usage of caption boxes to both provide character insight as well as describe action is awkward. The artwork is very strong for a comic that is supposed to look and feel epic. Overall this is an average comic book with some minor potential going forward. At five dollars you might want to look elsewhere.

"Doctor Strange" launches with an average first offering. Strange is characterized too much like Tony Stark with his sarcasm and woman-chasing antics. The comic hatches an interesting plot near the end of the comic that might allow Strange to interact more with the commoner and use some detective skills along the way. The artwork doesn't do much to segment the radically different scene shifts in this comic book, but provides a decent look when dealing with Strange's day-to-day life. The comic book is worth a look if you want a character-driven story. If the characterization becomes more unique and the idea of magic coming at a price comes to the forefront then this book could be a winner. This title will be worth keeping track of down the road.

"Invincible Iron Man" launches with a character focused issue. The reader gets a nice introduction into Stark's current mindset. The book doesn't launch any big plot, but instead gives the reader small scenes that could come together later as a part of a bigger story. The comic gives a great cliffhanger to help bring the reader back. The artwork is the highlight of the book as the pencils, colors and layouts all come together to tell a great visual story. Fans of the character will be pleased at what they find here and newcomers might find enough to continue on with the title. This is worth checking out.

"Paper Girls" is a great first issue. The story moves quickly through the forty-page comic book. The opening issue introduces the four paper girls and puts them into a couple of crazy situations by the end of the issue. The artwork is very strong as it sets a great mood and provides a lot of creative details on some of the strange elements. The minor drawback is that I found the four girls to all have the same voice by the issue's end. There just wasn't enough dialogue to define them uniquely. This is a great comic to pick up this week. I highly recommend this comic.

"American Vampire: Second Cycle" reaches the penultimate issue with a tension filled, dramatic, action-packed story. The comic has alternating sequences that deal with the two plots. The book puts the characters in a tough spot but then pulls them out, only to have them drop into a meat grinder by the end. This is a very good comic book. The gaps in the series make going back and re-reading the previous issues in "Second Cycle" kind of required but that's not that tall of an order. I recommend checking this out as the ending appears to be a classic in the making.

The "Batman" Annual is a decent idea executed horribly wrong. Alfred's missing hand appears and disappears several times and the climatic scene is missing the 'show' aspect of what Wayne is doing as the artwork doesn't hold up to its end of telling a story. Editorially the comic book has nothing to do with the top selling "Batman" title but seems to be an extension of "Arkham Manor" which last so the light of day in March with one sixth the readership as "Batman." A reader of only "Batman" will be lost in the shuffle as to how Wayne lost his house and how it was turned into an asylum. When you charge five bucks for a comic book you need to make sure the top effort is there and not just the page count. This comic book is a mess. Avoid it. Whatever Tynion was hoping to do with this issue was simply not supported by the rest of the team involved.

"Transformers: More Than Meets The Eye" takes a break from the longer narrative and tells a story about the five Decepticons that call themselves, "The Scavengers." The comic book is a character driven story with a lot of dialogue and not a lot of action. However, the comic book explores a number of interesting themes about soldiers returning home from war and the morality of selling off a prisoner. The book breaks up the dialogue with a number of funny moments that help to display the character's personalities. The comic book hatches an interesting plot by the end that provides quite a cliffhanger. The comic is one of the best out there today and this is a good opportunity to check out an issue that is removed from the long story. I highly recommend this comic book.

"1872" continues to tell a fast-paced story where the battle for an old west town is coming to its bloody conclusion. The comic has a lot of action and a couple of good plots going at the same time as the mini-series heads into its final issue. This issue has a couple of strange insertions and leaves some odd holes in the narrative flow and the action. Overall, this series a good read and might become a must-read as one of the lead characters, Red Wolf, will be sticking around in the new Marvel Universe. I recommend giving this a look.

"Batgirl" turns in an average issue. The detective work and the deep plot make the comic a nice read. However, the shift at the end to get Babs a boyfriend feels forced. The comic also struggles with one of the scene transitions as it appears to leave too many unanswered questions when the one scene ends. Overall, the book is a decent read but nothing close to the level of more recent issues.

"Hellboy" closes out the short arc with a revealing issue. This one provides a recap of some of his past and adds some interesting family pieces to the puzzle, but also reveals a few more questions. The comic has action and terrific artwork to help pace the book nicely. Unfortunately the wait now begins for the next installment in the series and it appears it will be a while. However, this issue was worth picking up and was definitely an entertaining read.

"Kanan" opens the second arc with a very average effort. Kanan returns to Kaller, the planet in the first arc, and runs into many of the same characters from that arc. The comic under utilizes the supporting cast from the TV show, but when they appear, the depictions are great. The comic also has some strange results from the knife wound at the end that don't quite add up. The visuals in the book look great as they seem to channel the TV show well. Overall, this comic book is struggling to determine what audience it wants to cater to: the show or comic fans. Hopefully the next issue will correct the course. This is an average comic.

"Star Wars" is action. This comic book gets the blood running and doesn't let up until the final page. Luke is chasing down a thief that stole his saber, but finds that a Hutt holds all the cards to his future. Han and Leia try to reason with Han's ex-wife and contest with a nest of Imperials that results in a roaring escape. This is all backed up with visuals that appear to launch right out of the movie. Overall, this is a great read regardless of how slowly the Han and Leia subplot is moving. I definitely recommend checking this out.

"Lando" takes a turn for the scary with this issue. The bounty hunter enters the fray as everyone is now trapped on the Emperor's ship with a deadly Sith artifact looking to take over. The comic has good visuals but struggles when trying to nail down the characterization of Lando. Overall, this is a good comic book but could be a classic if only it handled the lead character more in keeping with the films. I recommend giving this a chance.

"Paybacks" is about a repo team that takes back property from would-be-heroes that don't pay their bills. The first issue has two repo teams. One hunts down a Batman knock-off while the other comes into a very deadly confrontation. The comic book is an entertaining read with a good high concept. The artwork is very good as it is detailed and imaginative. Overall, this is a very good comic book and one to keep your eye on.

"Tokyo Ghost" is a love story of a woman trying to pull her boyfriend out of an electronics addiction. The story is packed with action and the love story aspect is really only part of the narration until it takes center stage over the final two pages. The comic is gorgeous as the artwork presents an amazing story that is detailed, imaginative and lively. This is a comic book to check out and keep an eye on. It has "smash hit" written all over it.

"Batman" tells a one-shot set outside of the Snyder-Capullo narrative. Snyder, Azzarello and Jock put the Dark Knight in a situation where he is investigating a murdered fifteen-year old. The comic book contains stunning visuals that make this story a memorable one. However, the book is slowed down by the lack of detective work on the part of Batman. He seems to simply ask questions or beat people while Gordon runs police tests on evidence rather than connecting his own dots and working things through on his own. The comic also tries to jam in real-life social topics to create a more tragic victim and this tactic doesn't fit the story. The comic is worth a look but there are plenty of other Batman one-shots that are better and cheaper than the five dollar price tag that this one carries.

"Faster Than Light" brings horror to science fiction. The first issue builds up the plot, introduces the characters and sets the stage for what looks to be an exciting series. The initial issue is a slower read as the plot is put together with a lot of characters and with careful placing of dialogue. This is a good beginning to what appears to be a series worth watching.

"Shattered Empire" is a perfect bridge from the final moments of the second Death Star to the next crisis that the rebels must deal with. The comic has a few scenes with the Luke, Leia, Han, Chewie, Lando group but for the most part it focuses on two new characters that may have ties to the new film. The comic features fantastic artwork and spot-on character work while introducing a new plot at the very end. Han Solo is a central character throughout the comic book, which is a good thing, but there is enough character work that the new characters can carry the plot forward. This comic is a great start. I highly recommend this.

"Walking Dead" provides an issue that features a battle between Maggie and Rick as the overall leadership of the group seems to hang in the balance. The comic uses silent pages to open the book and provide a somber memorial for those that have fallen. The emotional impact isn't as big as it could be because so many of the these characters were under developed. The comic feels like an issue that is too long for the story that Kirkman is telling: who is fit to lead. I recommend checking this out but this isn't as strong of an issue as this series generally churns out.

"Future Imperfect" takes an old story, dusts off the characters and tosses them into "Secret Wars." The comic book manages to become relevant to the crossover as the plot to kill Doom brings Doom into this issue. While this comic book is mostly action, the book manages to throw in some good storytelling as Rick Jones takes some verbal shots at the Maestro and David throws in a surprise at the end. Overall, I enjoyed this series and the ending a lot. I definitely recommend it for fans of the original series and for "Secret Wars" fans that are looking for something that ties into Doom a little more closely.

Groot is a story about a bond between friends. The comic book is a humor book but it is not done in an over-the-top way that you might expect from Deadpool. Instead the book has sweetness to it as Groot's innocence mixes so well with the cranky Rocket Raccoon. The comic has a simple rescue plot at work but the execution of the book is fantastic as Rocket narrates his feelings on Groot as Groot goes through the steps to round up a team and attempt his rescue of Rocket. The comic book is a fantastic read and may be the most charming comic book I've read all year. I highly recommend picking this up.

"Plutona" is a decent read. Lemire introduces the four characters, gives them unique voices and launches the murder mystery plot. The comic is backed up with very solid artwork. However, the comic is fairly ordinary by Lemire standards and doesn't do anything to set this comic apart from so many other "real life super hero" stories. This is one to check out and keep an eye on. I mildly recommend this comic book.

Peter and Kitty were a couple when the old Marvel Universe died. Kitty went with it but Peter remained. Peter finds a different version of Kitty and this is the story of him trying to find the old Kitty buried somewhere inside this new one. It's a love story, but not without a plot, wit, charm and plenty of action. Fans of the characters are going to want to check this out. This won't change the landscape in any way, but it tells a worthwhile story about love lost and the idea of soul mates. This is a good read.

"Batman" provides a lot of information about what happened to Bruce Wayne. Using Jim Gordon, Clark Kent and Alfred makes this issue strong because some of the more important relationships in Bruce's life are looked at. The comic book struggles with transitions and jolts the reader in the back half of the book as it switches over to the latest villain and the brewing plot. Perhaps this issue would have been better served staying more closely focused on Bruce for more pages. The artwork is stellar as always. This is a decent read as Snyder and Capullo never fail to entertain.

"Secret Wars" turns the corner for the finale by setting things up in this issue. Valeria starts her investigation into the missing characters and seems to be on a very interesting scent. The comic book provides answers as to how Doom became God in this new world. The artwork makes the most of a rather tame issue. This is an average read that will fit nicely in a collection but doesn't give much bang for a single issue.

"Lando" has an action-packed and tense issue as Lando and friends try to escape with their prize. They don't know whose ship they've stolen or what is on the ship but they now know they have something very important. The comic book brings in some new players to add to the chase by the comic's end. This is a very solid read backed up with stunning visuals. I recommend checking this comic book out.

"The Walking Dead" provides a dramatic issue as the core characters deal with the fallout of their loved ones being murdered by a neighboring community. They try to deal with their grief while determining their next steps. The artwork provides a stunning visual story in this issue as the tension builds throughout the comic. This is one of the better issues in the series in a while. This is what is best about this comic book.

"Groot" is a very good read. It brings in Silver Surfer and his partner, Dawn, into the fold for this issue. This comic book showcases the character's personalities and provides a good one-shot, team-up story. The book has great visuals to capture the essence of what makes Groot, Surfer and Dawn a great set of characters. This comic is a fun ride and is worth checking out.

"Star Wars: Darth Vader" tries to provide a heist followed by the set up for the next plot in the same issue and it doesn't work. The front part of the comic is exciting and provides a twist while the book then slows to a halt setting up the plot to come in the next issue. The comic might read fine in a collected edition but is a messy read for a single issue. The artwork in the comic book is certainly something special to look at but it isn't enough to make this comic book a winner.

"This Damned Band" is a comic book that follows a 1970s band through their documentary. The band has a stage persona and a completely different one when the cameras are off. The comic book stumbles when trying to provide distinct character voices but excels with the artwork. A comic book that has this many good ideas in it shouldn't be this difficult to get into and I felt this was because of the bland characterizations. This is one to check out but probably is going to cater to fans of the creators or readers that are into the rock band genre. Give this a look.

"We Stand On Guard" continues its fast paced story with the second issue. The tension is still high as the Two-Four do not trust Amber. However, the Two-Four have bigger problems knocking on their doorstep as more of the plot begins to hatch. The artwork continues to be a huge draw to this comic book as this might be the best looking comic book of the year. The details are some of the finest I've seen in a long time. This is an impressive comic book in many ways. I recommend checking this comic book out.

The "Batgirl" annual is a nice trip through four of the Bat-verse titles. Batgirl is continues through the book trying to solve the same case, but she runs into a new character in each phase of the comic. The book is a fun read and brings out the best in Batgirl's characterization and provides a nice introduction to the supporting characters that make appearances. I highly recommend checking out this comic book if you have any interest in Batgirl, Grayson, Batwoman, Spoiler or Gotham Academy. This is a great read.

"Star Wars" is a one-off story involving Kenobi defending young Skywalker and his homestead. The comic book doesn't explore any new territory as it throws the usual group of thugs from Jabba's palace to shakedown the locals. Kenobi seems to be on the brink of depression and while this is a great idea, it only gets explored for a couple of pages. Generally this is the kind of story that has been told many times before. Perhaps those that are new to the Star Wars universe of comic books might find something to like in here but I found the story to be unimaginative and very average. I expect more from this creative team on the flagship book dealing with this subject matter. Proceed with lowered expectations.

Thors is a decent read. The comic follows a bunch of Thors that are following a trail of bodies. This comic has a fight between two Thors, another dead body and a funeral to kick it all off. There isn't much in here that will make you think about the case of the various dead people and it appears the book will resolve the plot with the Thors just happening onto the murderer. This is an okay read but by no means a crime book as the first issue suggested. Give it a shot, if for nothing else the stellar artwork.

"Transformers: Combiner Hunters" is a one-shot that seems to cater to the readers of the main Transformers title. This issue introduces a new Combiner and gives some focused time on three of the female characters. The plot and execution leave a little to be desired but the comic is an okay enough read. The artwork helps to keep the pace up in this book and presents a nice story. Overall, this is a decent book but not an essential one unless you are tracking first appearances.

Archie versus Sharknado is a very good one-shot comic book. Archie fans will probably enjoy the read as the book weaves the various characters into the plot. Sharknado fans probably are getting what they would expect, but may have been hoping for more of the movie characters instead of just the Archie ones. The comic has nice artwork and tells a gory, but all-ages-like visual story. At forty pages for five dollars you will definitely get your entertainment value. I recommend checking this out.

Cyborg is a good read. The comic gives some background on the lead character, establishes his personality and presents his relationship with his father. The book doesn't have much action and is a slow read. The comic does introduce a villain that seems to be a slower building, but very intriguing one. Backed up with excellent artwork, you have a good, but no perfect, initial issue. I recommend checking this comic out.

Kanan is a comic book for those interested in the TV Show, but is also familiar with comic books. Because the comic book is so different in its presentation, those that are only picking this up to fill out the Star Wars comic line are probably going to be disappointed. The comic reads a lot like other show episodes that were converted to a comic book mini-series. Plenty seems to be left off panel. With the strong artwork the limited dialogue works out well for the issue. I recommend giving this a try. I enjoyed this penultimate issue and am eager to see how it finishes up.

Star-Lord and Kitty Pryde is a fun read. One is a survivor of the Marvel Universe and the other is not. One is looking to pick up their romantic relationship where they left off while the other has no idea who the other is. The comic is a fast read, with strong characters, solid action and a good hook at the end. The artwork is stellar and helps elevate this to another level. Overall, the book is distant from Secret Wars, but that might serve it well. This is worth a look.

"Godzilla In Hell" serves up a silent issue. Godzilla finds a creature to fight shortly after arriving in Hell. The comic doesn't provide too many details in the hows and whys but the battle is definitely something that is enjoyable. Stokoe provides some nice detailed pencil work and a decent, but limited color scheme. Rather than a lot of close-ups, we seem to get a bunch of distance shots that prevents the details from shining through. The comic is a decent read but nothing memorable. Give it a shot.

"Island" provides great value for your money. Over 100 pages of material for $8 is a great deal. The comic provides three full-length stories in it, two short stories and a tribute to a friend by DeConnick. Fans of the creators involved must pick this comic book up. Other readers may want to look under the covers to determine if the art styles match with their taste. If so, then they might find this to be a hidden treasure. I only found one of the stories to be something memorable but the entire comic is gorgeous to look at. Take a look at this one.

"Planet Hulk" is an exciting read that is stalling on the plot. The characters have good chemistry but they seem to lament their mission too much. The comic book throws all kinds of various Hulked out creatures and that makes the book fun to read. The artwork helps hold the entire thing together, especially where the plot seems to be stalling. This is an average read that has some high points. Give it a look.

"1872" is some of the Marvel characters in a small town in the old west. The comic plays around with old ideas, like the crooked mayor and the one-good-sheriff-trying-to-fight-him, but the book is presented in a crisp fashion that will keep the reader engaged. The cliffhanger promises more excitement in the next issue, which is also a big plus. If you like westerns then this is a great book to pick up.

As far as "Batman" standards go this issue is fairly average. Gordon continues to polish his Batman game while he tries out some new toys. A new villain is introduced as Gordon continues to use some detective skills to figure things out. The comic book is backed up with fantastic artwork, especially during the big fight. The missteps in Sawyer trying to convince Gordon to throw in the towel don't quite add up. Perhaps Snyder is going with the theme that Gordon is full of self-doubt and hesitation? It's unclear where this subplot is going at this point. Overall, this is a good read but nothing near the high standards that this team has set for to this point.

"Lando" looks to be a very solid series. The opening issue captures all of the charm, intrigue, guile and slickness of the lead character. The comic moves through three plot phases in the opening issue, which helps establish the kind of life Lando leads. The book stumbles with some of the characterizations of Lando and the over-use of Lobot's implants, but these can easily be corrected in future issues. This is definitely a different Star Wars coming than the others and it is worth checking out.

"The Walking Dead" works because the comic book builds over time to shocking issues like this one. This book is a read that builds up the tension within this issue to get to the huge reveal at the comic's end. The artwork excels at providing the visual shock for the end, but also provides a fantastic spread of the zombie super-herd in the beginning. This is a fun read. It's a game-changer and I highly recommend picking it up.

"18 Days" could very well turn into an epic. This issue really sets up why the two sides are fighting and the moments before the battle begins. Priced at a dollar this comic book is a no-brainer for everyone. The Grant Morrison fans might feel disappointed as this is more of Morrison re-telling a story instead of really putting his stamp on it. This is a recommended comic book.

"Secret Wars" is becoming a story about Reed Richards and Doom. This particular issue brings the pair together in a confrontation that gets cut short by the conflicted, but power-balancer, Stephen Strange. The book makes poor usage of so much of the cast that I found myself questioning why they were even included. Twenty pages of Richards, Doom and Strange would have been enough for this issue I believe. The artwork is good but not as detailed as prior issues and not as polished as a top level event of this nature probably is required to be. This issue is mostly an average read that teases the theme of characters having too much power. It will be interesting to see where this is headed, but the layoffs between issues are about to get bigger, so it will require some patience. I mildly recommend this comic.

"Darth Vader" sets up a new plot in the back half of the book that shows the cunning side of Darth Vader. Unfortunately the front part of the comic book is a missed opportunity to develop Vader's character in a meaningful way when Vader visits Ben's shack and the Lars farm. These scenes could have been great scenes mixed with some flashbacks to provide some insight into Vader's head but fall well short of being anything other than an observation. The book has some great artwork that helps the comic to keep up a nice pace. Overall, this is a very average comic book that could have been something special.

"We Stand On Guard" has all the makings of a classic series. The opening issue stays away from politics and heavy dialogue and sticks to a few characters and their perspective on the United States invading Canada. The comic book opens with a powerful sequence and ends with a thrilling string of events. At forty pages you get plenty of comic book for your money and all of it is highly entertaining. This is your chance to get in on the ground floor of what looks to be something special. I highly recommend checking this comic book out.

"Green Lantern: The Lost Army" is off to a good start. If you like adventure stories that take characters into unexpected scenarios then this is the comic book for you. The cast of characters is not terribly interesting but some of the groundwork is put down for John Stewart. The comic is backed up with some nice artwork to round out the reading experience. One of the nice aspects of this book seems to be that it will be a self-contained comic that stays away from events and crossovers. I recommend giving this comic a shot.

"Walking Dead" is driving towards a big issue. This is still just setting things up for that big issue but there is a nice cliffhanger to keep the reader coming back for more. The book struggles in some of the dialogue as it appears Kirkman allows for the characters to make assumptions that leave the reader to decide how they arrived at them. The comic book packs in some drama but doesn't put the reader on the edge of their seat. This is a good read, but an average "Walking Dead" read. Give it a look.

"We Are Robin" is a good start to the idea that there is an army of Robins running around Gotham. This particular issue takes a long look at Duke Thomas as it gives us a day in the life of. The character has some charm to him but the components that he's dealing with feel very clichd. Overall, the art boosts the reading experience and helps to keep the pace up. This is a decent comic book to take a look at but no real plot appears to be launched. Give it a try.

"Black Canary" is off to a decent start. The opening issue is bogged down by some very rushed and clunky dialogue as book rushes to have the supporting cast suspect that DD has a shady past. The comic is definitely trying to capture the character-driven feel that "Batgirl" has achieved. However, this comic doesn't take the time to lay out the setup in the same way "Batigrl" was so successful at doing. The comic is backed up with terrific, noir artwork that helps make this comic stand out from the everyday comic book. This is a comic book worth checking out by is a very average read. Hopefully the kinks in the character work will be worked out in the coming issues.

"Robin: Son of Batman" has a lot going for it. The comic has great, classic, super-hero art. The comic has a great opening sequence and ends with the lead character putting himself on a path of atonement. However, the book's middle is sunk in a confusing, continuity-heavy mess that seems to cater to the long-time reader and ignore the fact that a new reader might pick this up. The comic book is virtually inaccessible to a new reader if you are looking for a complete read. What could have been an exciting first issue turned into a very average and disappointing one. There are simply better books out there with a "#1" on the cover.

"Thors" is a crime comic book. This is not for every reader out there. However, those that like the genre and don't mind a toned down version of crime-drama stories then this issue is a great book to pick up. The comic has great artwork that helps to keep the book dramatic while delivering well on the few action scenes that are in the story. This is a very good comic to pick up this week. The cliffhanger is sure to keep the Thor fans coming back for the next issue. I recommend this comic.

"All-Star Section 8" is a strange collection of characters for a comic book. The creators are perfect for the comic book as they keep the book light, even when dealing with Batman. The artwork is fantastic as it is detailed and extremely vibrant. The book stumbles towards the end as the Batman subplot gets some action but doesn't see a resolution. Overall, this is a good read that will cater to a select audience. I would have liked to see a more powerful ending to set things up for the next issue. This is an average to good read. I look forward to the rest of the mini-series to see where this is heading.

Batman is still a man in suit, but now a man in a suit inside a huge robot. This comic book explores the origins of finding the right man for that role. While the argument for picking the man is extremely weak, the book looks great and the idea has potential. Hopefully Snyder will explore the reasons behind getting this individual in the suit, instead of it seeming like someone said, "hey, let's do a story where character XYZ is Batman" but never really thinking through why that character would do it and under what circumstances would that be the right fit. This is an average comic book as things start out for the new direction for Batman.

"The Walking Dead" is the best comic book I read month after month. This issue is about as average as it gets. With some clunky dialogue, low points in the plot threads and limited drama or action you don't have a whole lot of entertainment in this individual issue. Hopefully, things will pick back up next issue. This is a very average comic book.

If you are enjoying Jason Aaron's take on Thor then you will enjoy this comic. In fact, this could easily be a Thor story or a forgotten story arc, which may be part of the problem with this getting a perfect score because Aaron writes Arkon much like he writes one of his Thor characters. The comic is a very good introduction to the strange world and the lead character. There isn't much of a plot for the larger arc, but the lead villain is revealed at the end. The comic is backed up with powerfully, but different, artwork by Del Mundo. Overall, this was a well-written, beautifully drawn, fun comic book. If you like Conan then you will enjoy this. I recommend checking this out.

The comic is a dull read that is more because the character is lifeless than because the book lacks action. A de-powered Superman living in a world where his identity has been exposed sounds interesting but it actually isn't.

"Renew Your Vows" may feel like a comic book that is twisting the knife for those readers that opposed the undoing of the marriage. While the comic reads a lot like a "What If?" story, the book explores an interesting theme. If you are looking for deep insight into the marriage then this will be a letdown. This is a super-hero comic book with plenty of action where the lead character happens to have a wife and kid. The story components that get the comic from A to B are rushed, which leaves too many unanswered questions. However, overall the comic book is worth checking out. I recommend it.

"Future Imperfect" is a comic book that caters to the long-time Hulk fan. There really isn't a strong tie to Secret Wars and there isn't a ton of characters that overlap with the regular Marvel Universe (however that could change). The comic has a decent enough story that sets up the identities of the main players but doesn't really explore any of their personalities. The artwork has a lot of odd facial expressions but provides a couple of nice splash pages. Generally this is a decent comic book that is worth a look through.

Groot is not for everyone. The comic book isn't part of Secret Wars, it doesn't have drama and it isn't trying to world build anything. The comic is mostly about Groot and his buddy Rocket Raccoon as they travel through space. The book is as character driven as they come and it turns out the pair is as charming a duo as you are likely to find in comics. This comic is definitely worth picking up.

Secret Wars continues to look at the nature of power and the responsibility that comes with it in this issue. The comic book focuses on Doom and how he came to power and the kinds of regrets he's dealing with. The comic is a slow, but dense read. The plot movement brings together some of the surviving characters from the last incursion. Generally the book is a fine read but it isn't anything terribly memorable. There are some key moments that will provide more punch in a collected edition, but as a single issue they make for a slow paced, average read. This is worth a look.

"Star Wars" is an exciting read each and every issue. The comic provides plenty of action but doesn't risk too much with the battles. Knowing which characters survive takes some of the drama out of the fight scenes. This issue has some great moments, especially the Solo reveal. The artwork could have been more polished but is generally good. Overall, this is a quality read and worth checking out.

"The Infinity Gauntlet" is a very good first issue and a great starter issue for a curious fan. The book is free of continuity, knowledge of Secret Wars or of the past stories that deal with the subject matter. The comic introduces a cast of solid characters and then puts them in a situation where they might not all survive. The book has action, drama and mystery. The comic looks great artistically as the book has the feel of a big budget movie. Overall, this was an entertaining read and one that will surely bring the reader back for a second issue.

Secret Wars 2099 is a comic book that appears to simply pick up characters from the 2099 universe from another book. The comic seems to target fans of the 2099 universe but does provide some solid character work if you are curious about this universe. The comic seems to be Hercules and Captain America-centric but with other members of the team getting introduced they may also get some spotlight down the road. The book has some action but no real deep plot gets hatched in this issue. This reads like a nice comic book catering to existing fans. I mildly recommend this.

Where Monsters Dwell may not be on your list this week. It's not one of the marquee comics, but does come with some heavy hitter creators. The comic is a very good one that stays away from Secret Wars as much as possible but links it to those events enough so that it can fit in with the event. Ennis delivers a character-driven story that has plenty of personality, while Braun delivers details and lively artwork that captures the emotions perfectly. This is a comic book that is worth checking out for those curious about what it's all about. Those looking to complete the read for Secret Wars then this comic doesn't appear to be essential reading. I recommend the book regardless.

"A-Force" may or may not be on your radar. With so many tie-in comics for the Secret Wars event it is difficult to know which to pick up and which to pass on. This is definitely one to pick up. The comic is focused on the female characters, but provides nice characterizations and interactions that it feels more like a team book about super-heroes than a gimmick about female characters. With surprises left and right and great visuals you will be entertained from the beginning until the end. I recommend picking this up.

"Planet Hulk" is a very interesting comic book. It helps to have read the original Planet Hulk story, it wouldn't hurt to be following the Secret Wars series, but none of that is required. This is a standalone story that puts Captain America in the path of many Hulks. This first issue sets up the world, the plot and moves the characters into each other's paths. This is a very good read, especially for those that are fans of Captain America, The Hulk or those that just like fun stories. I recommend checking this out.

"Star Wars" is a fast moving comic book. There isn't a ton of plot or new character development, just plenty of Star Wars-like scenes. Han and Leia argue, Luke is pursued by Fett, Fett follows the trail to the Cantina plus sand people, TIE Fighters and plenty more. The comic book dusts off a lot of what was portrayed in the films and brings them to life with tiny little new twists. It's a fun ride. I recommend checking it out.

Secret Wars is aimed at the Marvel Hickman reader. If you haven't read Hickman's work you may want to sit this out. There might be tie-ins that appeal to you or this series may compel you pick up Hickman's Marvel work to get the full story. However, the reader coming into this blind will probably find more confusion than entertainment. As such, I found this to be a very bland read. Is the idea of a Battleworld cool? Yes, but so are dozens of other What If stories that have published over the decades that do not require reading 80 issues of two previous Avengers series to fully understand the content of the mini-series. This is the crowning jewel for the Hickman readers but a hollow read for the rest.

"Darth Vader" has so much potential. The comic has a good supporting cast, it has good ideas, but it is failing on the execution in too many spots. Having a consistent characterization of Vader is essential. How he acts, what he says and what he's capable of should be cornerstones across the line. This comic book confuses things instead of following a standard. The book throws some ideas out there that have potential but at the expense of using the characters that have been established in previous issues. This comic book looks cool and might skate by on those merits but if you are looking for a complete read about Darth Vader then this is simply not it.

The Walking Dead seems to be hitting its stride with the plots that have been building for some time now. This issue brings Rick and Negan face to face, which has been waiting in the wings since the end of the war. The comic throws a nice twist at the end to bring the reader back for more next month. These kinds of issues are what make The Walking Dead such a great read issue after issue. The tension, drama and confrontation are all seat-of-the-pants kind of moments that Kirkman and Adlard excel at. This was a very good read.

Nightwing and Oracle is a great comic book. Forget Convergence. Forgot the New 52. If you know Barbara Gordon as Batgirl or Oracle and you know Dick Grayson as Robin or Nightwing then you will find as solid as a comic book relationship as you'll find. Simone's command of these characters endures after all of these years. This is a great comic book that looks at what makes characters tick as they interact with each other. This is a great read.

This comic book is a very good read. The comic brings Hulk's character arc to a nice conclusion in this issue. Even one of the lose ends gets resolved in the back-up, ten-page story, to round out the book. There isn't much action or danger but it peels back the layers on a character that has so many sides to his personality. If you have any interest in the character personality of Hulk then this is going to be a good book to pick up. The five-dollar price tag isn't very appealing but if you have opportunity to pick this up then I recommend it.

Secret Wars has a lot of build-up. It appears to have a lot of prerequisite reading. A reader coming into this cold will have a lot of questions about the plot and won't find too many answers in this comic book. Readers of either Universe may miss some of the background on the intended characterizations. Overall, the book's goal was to kill off two worlds and it appears to have been successful in that regard. This is a decent read.

Kanan is turning out to be a breath of fresh air. The story of the character provides the reader with a unique spotlight on life as a child, being trained to be a Jedi, at a time when all the Jedi are murdered by the Clones. The book has plenty of action, moves at a fast pace and gives a cliffhanger for the reader to want more. The book may not have Han, Chewie, Luke and Leia but it is making its own mark and proving to be a superior read than the other Star Wars comics because you don't know where this character is going next. I am enjoying this book and this issue delivers Order 66 in a way that kept me heavily entertained.

Batman fights the Joker. Yet, this comic is so much more than that. Snyder puts some misdirection in this issue to keep the reader on the edge of their seats. The final few pages are as surprising and dramatic as the final bloody confrontation between the pair. If you can spare five bucks this week I recommend checking this issue out, regardless if you have read any of this arc or title of late. Don't miss this issue because it may turn out to be a classic.

Convergence: Nightwing and Oracle represents my favorite book in the Convergence cache to this point. This is the kind of characterization the DC could use more of in their comics. Plenty of action, a surprise or two, all while injecting the Convergence story line. If you know and love these characters then this is a comic to pick up.

Pisces may wind up being an epic. The comic could turn out to be something you can't wait for each month. However, this first issue is a very hard sell. There isn't much in here to define the characters or frame up the plot. This first issue is basically a Vietnam pilot behind enemy lines story. I'm not sure this is for everyone.

Princess Leia is an okay read with plenty of action and some bland characterizations with bold intentions. The plotting is fine but nothing that will be long-lasting in the Star Wars lore. The artwork could have used some overseeing with regards to character placements but nails the Leia "look", which counts for a lot. This is a read that the serious Star Wars fan, particularly the Leia fan, will enjoy but there isn't much in here for the casual reader. This is worth a glance.

Convergence is an okay story with obscure characters. The plot is fairly thin but the action is heavy. The comic puts familiar names with unfamiliar faces into a tough situation. The comic struggles to make sense to the unseasoned reader but will probably be a great read for those that know the ins and outs of these characters. This is an okay comic book.

Kaptara is an amazing looking comic book with a standard plot with interesting characters executing it. I'm not sure where this story is going but the first issue gave just enough to leave me curious about the second issue. The page count and artwork alone are worth the price of admission. I liked this comic but wasn't totally in love with it. I mildly recommend it.

Star Wars is a great comic for those that love the films and want to see more of the original trilogy. Those looking for the comic to break new ground will be disappointed. The comic tells an entertaining enough story but the issue is light on plot, except to move some pieces into place for future issues. This is an average-to-good comic.

Archie versus Predator is a mild comic to start the mini-series. It explores Archie and his friends and their personality dynamics. While the Predator shows up a little bit, there isn't much to go on. While a couple of characters do meet their doom, it occurs off-panel and without the core cast finding their bodies. This comic book is something to check out, but set your expectations low if you think there is a big showdown or confrontation within this issue. I recommend giving this comic a look.

Chrononauts #2 is a strange book. The comic is basically twenty pages of showing off Murphy's art throughout history. The story idea is that one characters is trying to convince the other to live like he does, as the ruler of various time periods scattered throughout history. It's an okay read but there isn't much story wise. You won't find a nicer looking book though. I recommend giving this a look.

Convergence is definitely a mini-series for the die-hard DC fan. The reader that knows all of the characters from all of the universes and that's kept up with all of the major events through the years. If you are one of those readers then you will know how these characters should act and how the plot fits together. If you pick this up on a lark and are a casual DC reader then you are left to your own devices. You won't find a recap page or footnotes or any information to help you understand what's happening or the characters that are involved. You are left to sink or swim based on the material in the panels. Quite frankly there isn't enough for my entertainment. I can't recommend this book.

Convergence is definitely schedule filler. The old time DC fan might find a lot to enjoy in this comic book. They might even fall in love with the event. If you aren't up on your DC events and characters from twenty to thirty years ago then skip this. At five bucks you can easily find something else to check out. This one is for the die-hard fans only.

Rebels is aimed at readers that have an interest in period-piece comics from hundreds of years ago. A reader that isn't interested in American History could still fall in love with the characters but eventually this comic is going to get more political and that might turn some folks off. For now, this is an entertaining read covering ground that isn't often covered in comics. This is a good comic to give a try.

Darth Vader has a lot going for it. This particular issue pushes a major plot development forward that will have many readers curious about the next issue. However, much of this issue feels too easy and unimaginative as Vader and friends explore Geonosis, find what they want and leave the place in a hurry. There just isn't enough in here for twenty pages of story unfortunately. I'm still not sold on the characterization of Vader, but it is possible that his supporting cast carries the book. Time will tell how the creators handle this balance. This was an average read.

The Walking Dead's strength is when the focus is on Maggie and her community. Kirkman has done a solid job of creating a couple of plots that are working against Maggie and putting her in a couple of potential no-win scenarios. This comic also provides glimpses into each of the plots, but not in a clunky way. This is a very good read with a nice bang at the end to keep you wanting more. I recommend checking this out.

Convergence is pretty much a way that DC will flush away the New 52 and introduce the new status quo. This opening comic makes this seem like it will be a very bumpy road. If you are looking to take a breather from DC then this might be the time to do it. Maybe check back in when the new books hit in June. If you like New 52 Superman then this is your comic book to pick up. If you are looking for a sensible start to a big event for five bucks then this might not be it. Maybe this issue would have been better served as a freebie.

No Mercy has the potential to be a fantastic story. It's Americans in a place that is hostile, probably towards Americans as well as locals. They are kids that appear totally clueless and they are led by a nun. This has the makings to be a classic. However, the first issue spread the characters too thinly and left me cold as to the ones that are left in the end. I'm looking forward to seeing where this is all headed though. I recommend giving this a look.

The first issue of Kanan is a fantastic start to this series. The book has action, nice character moments and it explores some good themes that tap into the best the Clone Wars has to offer. The comic requires no knowledge of the TV Show and provides a stronger first issue than the other three Marvel series. This is a comic book to pick up.

D4ve is a strange comic book but it is definitely a fun read. Robots occupy Earth. But they've become complacent and bored with everyday life. If you like your comic books to have terrific characterization then this is one to pick up. This book is good fun, in a very odd way. D4ve is someone you want to see come out of this fog and kick some butt, even if it is just his oddball son that he knocks some sense into. I'm anxious to see where this is heading.

Expanding the cast in Darth Vader is what this issue is about. Pieces are being moved into place but Vader's motives still remain extremely cloaked. Adding an evil pair of Threepio and R2 is a great idea that will hopefully have a nice payoff as the series progresses. This book struggles with capturing the essence of Darth Vader and takes too long with the Indiana Jones parody as it introduces Doctor Aphra. However, the artwork helps to make the issue standout. Overall this is a decent comic book to check out.

If you've been waiting for Michonne and Ezekiel then you finally have what you wanted. However, if you like some plot movement or even some resolution to plots that have been the focus for six months then you will be disappointed. I'm not thrilled that Kirkman has shifted focus without closing some of the other plots out but we'll see where this is headed. This is an average Walking Dead comic book but a comic book worth buying nonetheless.

Batgirl Endgame is for the Endgame completists. I do not recommend this comic book for those that follow the Batgirl title. You may be left wanting more. If you are not following Endgame at all then this issue is completely avoidable. It's confusing and adds nothing to the character unfortunately. This comic book is a decent read but is loosely relevant to Endgame or Batgirl.

Chrononauts is a great read if you turn off your brain and don't question much of what you read. If you sit back and look at the art and follow along with the basic story you will get the bang for your buck. This isn't anything terribly original but it entertains and that's probably what most comic book readers are looking for.

Invisible Republic is going to be a sprawling epic story. This is the ground floor. If you are familiar with Bechko and Hardman's work then you know what to expect. If you are not then you should be prepared for a layered story with dark visuals and complex, but strong core characters. This issue is one to pick up.

Princess Leia is proving to be a fun read. It's nothing groundbreaking and it's not too memorable but it entertains and that should be all you are looking for in a comic book. This particular issue utilizes the cast very well and sets up some character dynamics for future issues. Nothing special but worth checking out if you are curious or a fan of the genre.

Howard The Duck is a strange idea. However, the book is a good read that provides a nice introduction to the character, the plot and other characters for Howard to bounce off of throughout the book. This comic book looks to be a book to keep your eye on. It might very well become a hit. I recommend checking this out.

Star Wars is exactly how you remember it. There's action, action and more action. The comic doesn't explore feelings too deeply or provide characters arcs. The book is going to grab the reader and wow them to death. The comic does provide a very interesting final page that might just be enough to see where the next arc is going. This isn't perfect but it definitely entertains. What else are you looking for?

The Surface may very well become a smash hit. It might also have a cult following that swears to the genius of the story. Either way I do not believe this comic is for everyone. For me, it throws too many ideas and dumps too much information on a reader that a single issue could possibly support. When you back that up with three uninteresting characters you have a very difficult read to get through. I liked the artwork a lot but it wasn't enough to get the story to rise to a level that I found interesting. Take a chance and you might fall in love with this comic book. At $3.50 for twenty-eight pages you get a bargain no matter how much you enjoy the comic.

Walking Dead is as strong a read as ever. As Kirkman builds out all of these various communities he seems to stick closely with the core characters. This seems to keep these issues more focused on characters that readers have come to believe matter. This helps build the drama and tension, even in issues where no one dies. This is a very good but is not new reader friendly. I recommend checking this out.

Hawkeye isn't your normal super-hero book. The first issue is about the main character interacting with other characters that help shape who he is and the decisions he makes. The primary plot is unraveling a mysterious weapon and that ball gets rolling at the end of this issue. It's a good setup and a surprising cliffhanger. The book looks to be one to add to your pull list. I recommend checking this out.

Descender is a comic book that throws a lot at a reader in the first issue. It's not often you find a first issue that establishes a baseline then completely changes it, establishing a new baseline in the same issue. The comic book is beautiful to look at and if the story can continue to engage and surprise then this will be a big hit. So far, so good. This is worth giving a look. I recommend it.

Princess Leia is off to a decent but slow start. If the book had been condensed down 10 ten pages or so I think there could have been more of a first issue "wow" factor written into the back half. Instead all you really get is setup and not anything very interesting when you boil it down. The second issue will be very telling about the long-term prospects for this comic book. This is an okay read.

Transformers: More Than Meets The Eye may be the best and most comprehensive read month in and month out. Each issue seems to provide a new wrinkle in the larger story and provide a nice cliffhanger to bring the reader back for more next month while telling a dense and entertaining read. This specific issue ends a major arc and provides payoffs from the very first issue. However, this type of comic is a victim of its own success as it had me wondering, "that's it?" A great comic book that seems a little too straight-forward for what's come before in this series. Still, this is a can't miss comic book in a can't miss series.

Batman is the best book DC publishes and there is no question about it. Snyder and Capullo have built something special together that won't be around forever. Whether you like the take on the character or the general direction that DC is taking Batman in, these stories are classics and you would be hard-pressed to find a better Batman book over the last decade. This is worth picking up.

Criminal is a solid idea. The success of the book lies in the character work and the grittiness of the world. It's an unforgiving world with murder, deception and mistrust. If any of those things interest you then I would pick this up. If you enjoyed a good Conan magazine back in the day then you will love this comic book as well. It's amazing just how similar Conan-like Lawless actually is in this story. Fantastic comic book. One of the very best you will find.

Yes, you've seen these types of stories before. Typically they are of the Terminator sort where the world is either inhabited or getting taken over by the evil robots. These robots may have slaughtered the human race but they are finding themselves struggling to find a purpose now. It's a clever twist on the idea and it is executed in an intriguing way. I definitely recommend checking this comic out.

Darth Vader isn't going to break any barriers. It's pretty clear we are going to get more of what we've seen in the movies but that's okay. A Vader comic book constructed like this is entertaining and visually beautiful and that's really all you need in a comic book. If you like the genre I think you are going to love this comic book.

The Thor Annual is a fun read. It's a dense read with three ten-page stories, but doesn't warrant the five-dollar price tag. The talent in the comic all bring their A-game in providing good stories and visuals. The book may not fold into continuity neatly but they all seem to have a place in the Thor lore. This is a great book to pick up.

Bitch Planet is an ambitious book. I know this because of the back matter and not necessarily from what I read and see in the comic. I'm expecting some more character development and world building to help put this book's puzzle together. This issue is an okay read for those that have read the first two issues. New readers probably won't see anything in here that they haven't seen before. Give it a look regardless.

Deadly Class is an enjoyable read. The characters all have a way of shunning perfection. The characters display their flaws often and they become part of the storyline. While this issue may seem like a revenge story or tying up loose ends story, it really is a drama that is the result of a love triangle. The comic book has plenty of action and wonderful visuals to round out the reading experience. This is definitely something to pick up.

Ei8ht is a very solid read. With an easy to follow plot but put together like a puzzle, the book was a fun read. The characters have some grit to them and definitely leave an impression. The visuals are a match for the story and the universe it resides in. Overall, this is a comic that is worth picking up.

Silk is a good read. Those that are picking up the Spidey books will pick this up and feel right at home. Newer readers will probably find that the comic struggles to find something original to say about a character that is so similar to Peter Parker. Some readers might find the lead character charming as well as appealing because she is something new, which definitely provides an open book that you won't get with many of the other characters. Silk is an entertaining read and there is something to be said for that. I recommend giving this comic a look.

The second issue of the big crossover feels like filler. There aren't any mistakes, missteps or plot holes. Just not much happens in it. The argument over what to do with the Vortex could have been wrapped up in three pages and revisited as needed down the line. To have this focus of the entire issue makes me concerned about picking up future issues in the crossover. It's a decent enough read but nothing really happens in it. There are too many other comics out there to read than to spend time on ones that seem like filler.

Art is an acquired taste. Comic books should at least stay consistent within the covers. This book does not do that. Compounding that, the story doesn't help the reader to know the character's depictions and their powers. This makes scenes like the action sequences seem like a mess or a blur. The book's ending is a great one and this helps to push the book into a good direction. Being a fan of this concept and of the writer makes this issue a huge disappointment. I've waited years for this launch, I would have waited another month for a solid second issue.

"Darth Vader" is not a classic book. This issue falls into a lot of the pitfalls that previous Darth Vader comics have hit. There is plenty of action, but poor characterization of Vader as they pertain to the films. The book plays well with some characters but poorly towards others. Many readers will probably find this to be a fun read but nothing terribly memorable. Give it a shot. You might love it.

Walking Dead is one of the better comics on the stands today. There is rarely a bad issue. This comic moves two plots forward, one of them could be a game-changer. The book moves along at a good pace despite the lack of action. The comic book dives into some risky areas at the end and might shock the reader a little bit. Overall, this was an entertaining read as always.

This crossover could be a lot of fun. The opening issue covers a lot of ground and includes a ton of characters. Not being attached to any particular depiction I can't say if the characters are within themselves in this issue but they seemed to be. Generally a decent start to this crossover. It won't be for everyone and if you are curious and don't mind dropping five bucks for thirty pages then gives this issue a try.

Nameless is a decent launch. It has a lot going for it with the big name creators, the Image banner and the three dollar price tag. However, they all can't be winners. This one gets out of the gate with a decent read but nothing that hasn't been seen before in other incarnations with slight tweaks here and there. I liked the first issue and will probably stick with this for one more to see where it is heading. I recommend this to the Morrison fans or the fans of the horror genre but that's about it.

Star Wars is proving to be a fun read. This comic book definitely is catering towards the masses with exciting scenes and easy-to-follow plots. All of the core characters are playing a role in this opening arc and it is proving to be a run ride. I recommend checking this out.

Batman is the best book DC publishes. The stories are all epic. The characters are all A-list. The details are all clever. This issue is no different and brings the same high level of storytelling we've come to expect. The comic includes a backup story that sort of ties into the main story but isn't essential reading. It will be interesting to see how Batman gets out of this one.

Bitch Planet is proving to be a good read. It has a lot of elements that feel similar to that of Hunger Games but it has a sharper edge so far. This is a comic book worth picking up and checking out. It won't be for everyone but you will be entertained if you read it. I recommend checking this out.

The Dying and The Dead is not going to come out each month with a massive book this size. In this regard the story is bound to slow down. However, as far as opening issues there isn't much more this book could have done with the length its been given. It's a dense comic with story but at a swift and entertaining pace. I enjoyed this book and highly recommend it.

The biggest drawback in purchasing this comic is the price. Eight bucks is too high for the curious reader. And the label of 'guidebook" combined with the price might be enough to scare off the reader of the series who is looking to save a buck and doesn't believe this to be essential reading. However you slice it, this book was informational, entertaining and definitely worth cutting some other book from your weekly budget to pick up. If you love, or even just like, the Multiversity series then this is a must-have book.

The comic book is not good. There is some hope that the next issue will pick up as it appears a big battle is going to occur. The odd thing is that the comic has a large cast and appears to be growing but juggling all of them isn't the primary problem. The main problem is the execution. It doesn't give the reader much to rely on that this series will go someplace meaningful. As a reader, it feels like I'm chasing a rabbit down a hole. One that no one really cares to maintain properly. At four bucks a week a reader should be getting more bang for their buck. This series gets one more issue before I give up on it.

Reyn is a comic book that relies on fantasy and chivalry elements. The book certainly has that King Arthur-quest feel to it as we find a knight wandering the countryside. The comic has some okay characters, but ones that aren't too developed yet. I'm still not sure what this book will ultimately be about at this point. Generally, this is an average comic book with some good ideas that are underdeveloped and needed some better execution to fully come together.

Superior Iron Man has a good idea with the app craze on the city. It also has some decent supporting characters floating in and out of the book. Stark is depicted brilliantly at times and comically wrong others. The book has a lot going for it and is definitely organized in a succinct fashion. The book is worth checking out.

This one-shot will probably slip under a lot of people's radars. Unless you pick up everything Transformers related you might not even realize this exists. This is a great story that explores a darker side to war and does so without compromising continuity, but allows for this to be revisited in one or more of the ongoing series. This is an excellent comic.

Wolverines is still a story taking shape. It's not bad and it's not good. It simply exists and it has some elements that could be great but it also looks like there could be a long chase that leads nowhere. This particular issue doesn't do one thing to clear any of that up. It moves along another piece on the chessboard. This is an okay comic book in an okay storyline. Patience is a virtue.

Star Wars is going to be a fun ride. The comic book launches with a nice loop around the Star Wars universe complete with vehicles, surprise background characters and plenty of witty dialogue. Aaron seems to have nailed Han's voice down well and the others will likely follow. This is a fun read and one that any fan can pick up and get some enjoyment out of. I recommend this comic.

Walking Dead is at its best when it uses the slower issues to build up the characters. Kirkman getting the reader to care about them is a key component to the shock when he kills them off. This issue manages to build up Carl, Lydia and Maggie. It's a good issue despite the lack of action. I recommend checking this issue out.

Ant-Man is a fantastic comic book. I'm not sure it renders a five-dollar price tag but Marvel wants to test out the appetite for the market at five bucks and they are picking the irresistible ones to try it on their customers. This book is charming, fun and a little heartbreaking. You get the history of the character, a solid self-enclosed story and direction for the future issue, all in one comic. What more can you want? I highly recommend checking this book out.

Wolverines is a book Marvel has to publish. Producing months of fallout from the death of one of their biggest characters is the right way to go. I'm not sure creating a new set of characters and joining them up with the tried and true characters from Wolverine's past makes a ton of sense but the book is worth sticking with for a while. This is an okay comic book to check out, knowing you won't get a clear picture of the story for a few issues.

S.H.I.E.L.D is a fun book. It's a one-shot that contains about thirty pages of story for five bucks. The mission is an interesting one and definitely seems like one the red shirts could handle themselves. If you like Phil Coulson then this is a comic book you should check out. I recommend taking a look at this book.

This looks to be a great crossover. Two franchises that have a large appeal colliding in a believable way. The issue is a great start. If you come across this issue you might want to pick this up. I definitely recommend it.

If you like a good Joker story then here is a good one for you. It actually does have Batman in it, but not much at all. Even without Batman there is a good character study of The Joker and how he might twist a regular person. It's a chilling read by the end of the comic book. I recommend checking this out.

Superman is a comic book that long time Superman fans will probably enjoy. It's a blockbuster type story that provides situations that Superman seems to be really challenged in, which is difficult to pull off. If Johns can right the ship on the bland personality then the book might become epic. I fear the folks at DC like their Superman gritty, but it comes across as boring and unfeeling unfortunately. Big Blue deserves a little more of an emotional array. It helps to make him seem like he wants to be human. Isn't that sort of the point of the story that Johns is trying to tell?

The creators on this book deserved a better chance to show their talents. Having read much of Remender's work I can't believe he left this book that riddled with holes. This can't be the story he set out to do. In hindsight, the first act was fairly good and can be read alone with a decent level of entertainment. This issue is the low point. There must have been a more creative way to get a handful of characters to switch sides than this comic book event. Avoid it. It's not even worth the action.

Sandman is a quite an experience to read. This issue shows a side of Dream we all probably knew existed but were waiting for the revelation. I won't spoil the end but things do not end happily in this issue. I recommend checking this out.

Transformers is a franchise that simply not everyone can get into. There are a lot of comics and it's a confusing place to be continuity-wise as well as concept-wise. However, this particular series is about characters. It's probably the very best character-driven comic book I've come across in the past five years, maybe even ten. This issue begins a new arc. It appears to be a decent jump-on point. If you have any interest at all in comics that are driven by characters in a deep and meaningful way then I recommend checking this out. Forget that they are robots.

Batman is the strongest comic book in the DC stable since the reboot. This issue just brings another level to the Joker-Batman dynamic. I recommend checking this comic book out. I believe you will find yourself seeking out the back issues once you've read this issue.

Multiversity is a great series. While the thread that ties all of the issues together is a very thin one, each issue has been a delight to read. This one is a throwback to how DC's cast behaved some three decades ago. Morrison makes everything fresh and new. This is another great comic book to pick up regardless if you have read the others in the series or not.

Bitch Planet is a good first step. The book needs room to breath and fold in all of the themes that it seems to want to tackle. What I wonder about is if there will be a character that can rise above the others that will help push this book over the top to become a must read. This is a series to watch. I recommend checking this out.

Spider-Man and the X-Men is a fun read. It has a tight cast that just begins to get explored in this issue. The comic is a lengthy issue in terms of dialogue but does contain some action to try to provide some balance. The cliffhanger certainly will open some doors in issues to come. I recommend checking this out.

Walking Dead can be very hit or miss. This is an issue that has a lot of things bubbling over that weren't necessarily built up that way in the issues leading up. In short, I didn't see this coming and that is what makes this series a great one. I recommend checking this out.

Angela has already appeared in several comics this year. This issue serves as a re-introduction. This is helpful because the character has a complicated place in the Marvel Universe. This first issue is different from a Thor comic book and proves to be a good companion in the Thor universe. I enjoyed the issue but felt it could have been reined in a little bit. The issue definitely has a great cliffhanger. I recommend checking this out.

Escape From New York is nearly thirty-five years old. Can there still be an audience for this movie to support a comic book? Based on the contents of the comic, it might not matter because this is an action packed issue that leaves the film behind immediately. It stands on its own, making it extremely reader friendly. I enjoyed this issue and definitely plan to check out the future issues.

Hellboy is a fantastic character with a rich trove of stores. While the main title seems to be on endless hiatus, this will help fill the gap. If you ever wondered about the early Hellboy missions or are just looking to get into the character then this is a great start. I have no doubt the coming issues will be on par with many of the other classics of the character. Give this comic a try.

Secret Six is the kind of comic book that you follow the characters, enjoy the story but are more entertained by the growth over time than in individual issues. The last run was a great one and I am willing to gamble this one will be great as well. Simone is already making her mark with this new cast and I am sure the surprises will keep coming. I definitely recommend starting on this journey.

Gotham By Midnight could be a book set in any city and still provide the same punch. The addition of Batman was unnecessary but I suspect this comic will stand on its own soon enough. If you like detective stories into the supernatural realm then this is the book for you. If you love creepy artwork then you get your money's worth with this presentation. I definitely recommend checking this comic book out.

Ody-C is an epic tale. This is merely the first chapter. I have no doubt that if you pick this up and stick with it then you will be thrilled and entertained. The first issue provides some promise with fantastic visuals. Reading Homer's, "The Odyssey" may be essential for this, which is disappointing. All in all this is a comic book to pick up and try out.

Axis is an event with excellent ideas and creators. The story has had some ups and downs but always seemed to get where it needed to go, albeit painfully. This issue is a downer. The art doesn't help a story that is nothing more than a collection of character interactions. No mention of Red Skull's body. No mention of the missing heroes. Apocalypse barely appears. This would have been a great teaser issue for the event, given away as a freebie back in October. This is a poor comic book with little redeeming qualities.

This Weapon X mini-series isn't bad. It's a good idea. I'm not sure this issue was necessary or accomplished much and that is a problem. The series isn't a lost cause. Not yet anyway. This is a below average comic book.

Sinergy has a lot of potential. The first issue sets the direction and now seeing where his is headed will probably determine the long-term prospects for the story. I like what I saw in this book but I did find the plot to be a little loose for my tastes. I recommend checking this, especially if you are a fan of Buffy. This is a series to keep an eye on.

Morrison is making history with this series and this might be the best issue yet because the reader has to work for the results. This is not for everyone, but give it a try and be prepared to read the comic three times and in various page order. You will not be disappointed.

Axis could turn out to be something awesome before this is all over. I can't say I have enjoyed any particular issue but this one sticks out because it at least explains some plot ideas and sets up some interesting dynamics for the next comic. This isn't an event I can recommend but this issue tries to provide some entertainment and manages to do so. At least it isn't a five-dollar book.

Batgirl is in uncharted territory. She is out from Batman and all the crazy villains she normally squares off with. In some ways this is a reboot of the character. This one is making her way through everyday life while turning into Batgirl when a real problem arises instead of trying to watch the streets every night. This is a fun comic book and a nice take on the character. This is one to pick up.

Batman finds himself in a very tough predicament as the book wraps up. Snyder manages to up the ante in this issue, which is a good thing. This makes waiting for the next issue all the harder. Isn't that all you can ask for from a comic book? I definitely recommend picking this issue up.

Drifter is a good start to a series. What the book does from here is anyone's guess but the first issue at least establishes a good core cast and a decent mystery. The book is backed up by stellar artwork and has few downsides to the comic book. This is a good book to check out if you are looking for something different on the racks these days.

Superior Iron Man is off to a great start. Stark is slightly more villainous than he initially leads on in the beginning of the book and I like the character progression within the issue. I'm not sure this is a plot that can get a lot of traction for several issues but we will see where it all heads. This is a comic to check out for sure.

Walking Dead needed this issue. This is the kind of issue that keeps you guessing as you turn the pages in a way that only this series can provide. I like that there were two sets of action in this book and it is a good reminder of why I like this series so much. If you are new to this series in the last couple of years then this might be the first taste you get of the confrontations that makes this comic a great read.

Axis is reaching its mid-point and there are plenty of problems with the book. However, the ideas presented in this issue are good and could help to save this event. Unfortunately this issue is just another average issue. There isn't anything in here that is too memorable and there isn't anything in here that will make you cringe at the execution. It's mostly set-up for what's to come. This is an okay read but not worthy of the billing for this event.

This anthology hits all the right notes with the Cyclops story. It struggles with the other two stories, but for different reasons and it is not universally a miss for either one. The comic at least addresses that the X-Men are hurting and they are trying to deal with their grief and anger. This comic highlights a couple of those characters. The book is over-priced at $5 so it's easy to pass up. However, if you like these characters and you should pick this up you probably won't regret it.

This comic runs side by side with the Death of Wolverine story. I like the idea of a parallel track, such as this, and the plot threads could have some interesting results down the line. The characters are also nice additions to this event fallout. The comic could have used some work making this book a tighter read, but overall this is a good start. I recommend checking this out.

Tooth and Claw is a great first issue because of the price and the page count. It becomes a huge win with the stellar artwork within the book. The story is not going to be everyone's cup of tea. I wasn't sucked into story and I'm not sure if that is because I found the book to be overly wordy or if the subject matter just isn't something that I'm into. However, at this price you should pick the book up and take a chance on it. You might find out you love this book. Check it out.

This is the kind of one-shot that will sneak up on you. You probably pass this by on the rack but this comic is well worth stopping and at least looking at the first few pages. This is a very good self-enclosed story that definitely captures the best of the Captain America-Deadpool-Wolverine dynamic. I suggest giving this a shot despite the price point.

I don't know how this comic could have been better. Perhaps if the jealously led Sabretooth to someone related to the killing of Wolverine? Or maybe if he found someone that was as jealous? I'm not sure but this direction took the things that make Sabretooth great and threw them into a very strange book. I wasn't into this comic book at all.

Deathlok is a comic book you had no idea you wanted. However, if you like spy comics or comics with government cover-ups and conspiracies then this is a book to pick up. This is an action-packed first issue that provides just enough information to give you an idea of what's going on with the plot and characters. I recommend checking this out.

Rasputin might be a niche character. Perhaps only history buffs would like this kind of story. However, the personality and the intrigue of the character is not explored at all in this comic book. Sure, we get a taste of the fateful night but for the most part we get an origin story that we've seen many times over. As a result, the character doesn't quite stand out the way he should based on the history books. I'm curious about the second issue, but I know the artwork will dazzle my eyes.

Axis is a strange event. This particular issue has a lot of action and some snappy dialogue. Perhaps too much. The book looks rushed in the art department but at least puts on a spectacle in the nonstop action scenes. The ending feels a little bit out of nowhere, but provides a couple of interesting unresolved plotlines. This is an okay comic book but far short of the hype surrounding it.

Hobgoblin is a niche character and solo comic book. This mini-series will be interesting to read to see just how it ties into Axis, if at all. The character background is built up in this issue and the plot for the future issues is introduced but not expanded upon. This is a decent read especially if you like the character.

The Logan Legacy doesn't appear to be much more than a series of one-shots that have some loose connection together. Based on the previous issue I assumed there would be more of a quest that the group embarks on. However, a one-shot dealing with Laura is probably appropriate and this comic does a great job of giving her perspective on the death of wolverine, short of her visiting a shrink. This is a good book.

Multiversity is not a story for everyone. It's complicated and deep. It involves multiple incarnations of the same character with minor character differences in some cases. However, I know an entertaining read when I find one and this is it. Perhaps DC could find a small section of their new universe for these characters to exist and let Morrison lead a solo book on Damien or Lexi or Chris or just about any of them really.

Walking Dead appears to have a new battle rising up. It will be interesting to see how Jesus deals with the new threat. The subplots do not do much for the comic but they may have a payoff down the road. This is a good read with some minor slips here and there.

Axis is an event that is hatched out of Uncanny Avengers but is slowly breaking away from that book. The comic book contains action and a nice character focus but can future issues continue to juggle this huge cast while sticking with one and only one character? The book is slowed down severely by artwork, in flow, rendering and details. This is an okay read, even for the casual reader.

Deadly Class is a gem of a book. It's a bit of a period piece as it takes place in the 1980s but it relies on emotions that are timeless. This origin issue pulls on the reader's strings and delivers a great ride even if the reader knows how it's going to end. This is one to pick up.

Wolverine is dead. He deserved a better send off. I'm not suggesting the story needed to be dragged on for twelve issues but the with four issues, Soule could have easily presented a tight character arc that brought out Wolverine's final lap through his struggle to become a man above an animal. Perhaps an arc to finish the idea that everyone he has loved ends up dying. There were plenty of ways to put a nice cap on one of the long running themes from Wolverine's complicated past. Instead, Soule provides a mediocre story that doesn't seem to build any danger or allow the reader to believe that Wolverine is in any kind of internal struggle. Without McNiven this book would be totally avoidable.

I'm not sure sending Wolverine's enemies/sometimes allies, on a quest together is all that appealing. The one interesting thread was that Dark Wolverine learned that Wolverine was being sold - in pieces - in some market in some distance land. Beyond that, this book doesn't give me much to get excited about. It's an okay book that would have been far better served as a freebie teaser for the rest of the mini-series. You really need to be a complete-ist to pick this one up.

The opening issue of Axis gives the reader page after page of story. A lot of it seems to have such deep roots in other books it might lose its punch with the new reader. The comic has an enormous cast that almost seems too big for the comic to handle properly, but it makes a good effort. The book is on the cusp of something great, it just needs to focus on this story and not the last story more and it needs a major re-tooling of the art. The comic might be overpriced but if you are curious enough you probably won't be disappointed.

Batgirl: is she dark and depressing or fun and light hearted? She probably needs to be somewhere in the middle but this sudden shift will probably generate some buzz with those that didn't care for the old run and might shake off some readers from the previous run. It might be the best way to go. Either way you look at this is an entertaining read and a good direction to send the character. It's too bad the book can't bridge the gap a little gentler.

Batman is DC's very best comic in their publishing line. This issue kicks off the next big arc and it brings the action first. Batman uses his brains to defeat many of DC's best heroes. It's a fun book that obvious leaves the reader wanting more, especially after the cliffhanger. Well worth the price.

Birthright starts off with a bang. The first issue is padded with plenty of story and it doesn't stop to let the reader catch their breath. The comic has a wide appeal to anyone that ever had an imagination as a child about far-off lands but it will also appeal to those that have children and perhaps this storyline digs into their deepest fears. There is no reason to skip this comic book. This is why people read comics.

Wytches is a book that gives you a very entertaining read for three bucks. The question now is whether this book will go the slow-burn route or if it will quickly explore the horrors in the woods. Time will tell how this comic book does but this is a pretty good start.

Bucky is a great character. This is an incarnation that is much different from how Brubaker wrote him in Captain America. At the very least Marvel is trying to tell a different kind story with this series and that is a good thing. This comic might be a little out there for some but it might be a welcome change for others. You definitely need to think outside of the box while reading this comic but I recommend checking it out if you are curious.

Death of Wolverine is an okay mini-series. If you love the character then seeing this thing through to the end is a necessary evil. McNiven's art makes this more than tolerable but the story and plot just are not there. Combine that with the $5 price tag and you have something that you can probably take a pass on.

Lobo is an odd comic book. It's an odd concept. To be fair at least the creators are trying something a little different with this book. The next issue just needs to have a tighter, more meaningful construction but the ideas are in here somewhere.

Walking Dead is a great read. It presents a great group of characters as they try to survive the zombie apocalypse while dealing with the descent of their fellow man. However, you get down issues that generally build to something great. This issue marks the turns towards that upswing. This is a good comic book.

Thor is clearly not a gimmick comic book. Jason Aaron is in another phase of his longer story. With that I'm not sure a new reader can come into this and pick up all the strands immediately. However, the readers that have already been on board with Aaron's story will find the subplots just as interesting as the new hammer wielder. I recommend checking this out.

Booster Gold has had his own ongoing before. It was a good comic book. He's got a large following. There is no reason why this couldn't be given a try again. Perhaps DC isn't ready to break down the New 52 barrier in an ongoing series the way it was done here for this one-shot. However, this comic reads too much like a tease if this doesn't get tied to something in the works or out there now. I enjoyed this book but I think a new reader to the character might be a little lost as to what the character's purpose is. Give it a try. Hopefully there will be more of this coming down the pipe.

GI Joe is a tough franchise to find something new to cover. Over thirty years the stories have run the full array. IDW continues to try to set the Joes in a real world setting but the cornerstones that made this franchise appealing are action, characters and ninjas. You can wrap the politics around those cornerstones but when you lack them you have to wonder why this is a GI Joe comic book. We'll see where this is all heading. Not a great start but there are some items in here that have potential.

This issue of Harley Quinn is a fun read. It's a throwaway book in terms of continuity but you probably won't regret picking it up if you do. This is another high quality issue in what is proving to be a consistently entertaining series. You will probably catch yourself smiling once or twice as you read the comic.

Outcast is slowing down too much for my tastes. If you like horror and slow burn stories then you should be good to go with this and every issue. However, I think the characters don't feel very unique or interesting and that could be a problem no matter how much you like the genre and storytelling techniques used. A good read as part of an arc but a little too slow for a single, solitary read.

Oddly Normal is a good book to read with your kids, give to your kids or simply kick back and check out and remember what it was like to be a kid. The comic has a lot of charm, strong main character and a good gimmick attached to it. Normally it would be alarming when one creator takes on all duties, but with these being reprints you know you won't have to wait too long for the next issue. I urge you to check this book out.

This mini-series started as a good Loki/Thor story and morphed into some good character moments for Loki. In the final issue it seems to simply exist to pull the next Thor out of her current situation. Not much to do with Original Sin or to do with Thor. This was a disappointing and unnecessary issue.

Thor ends without his hammer. We all know whom will pick it up come October. It will be interesting to see how the three Thors mix into the coming series. This particular issue stands out because of the focus on the granddaughters and the origin of one of the main villains in the volume. This was a fun read but slightly overpriced.

Annihilator looks to be a strange journey. However, as an unknown publisher you have to wonder if issues two, three, four and beyond will ever see the light of day. As a single issue, there is certainly enough here to sit back and enjoy the read. I recommend picking this up.

Batgirl has been an interesting run. Simone did some great things, some not so great things and DC pulled the rug on her a couple of times to make the ride interesting. This comic presents the best of what she does: provides great character voices to female leads while squeezing every last bit of drama out of the story at hand. If you like a very different take on Batgirl and you like the fun times Batgirl then you are going to love this issue. Don't let the gimmick cover fool you, there is a good story in here.

Futures End Batman is a good book. It misses in a lot of spots, but it works well for the individual story it needs to tell. I would have preferred a little more explanation as to how Bruce Wayne aged so much in just five years but it's a personal preference. The cover is among the worst in this 3D event but that's just a gimmick. Overall, this is a good comic book to pick up.

Death of Wolverine is a touchy subject among many of the fans. The character deaths do feel out of control. However, the individual book is a decent read with fantastic artwork. From the setup in this comic book wouldn't you think this is like every other mess Wolverine has gotten himself into and then out of? Why would you think he won't find a way out of it? We'll find out in a couple of weeks as I see the third issue is delayed until October it appears. If you love McNiven then this is a must have. As far as stories go the comic is average.

Walking Dead is one of the best comic books out there. If you are new to the book then just hang in there with these slower issues. Kirkman is trying to roll his cast out and it is taking some time to let the readers know them again. Hopefully things will pick up soon. A solid, but ordinary read.

Perhaps reading the entire series won't make this particular issue stand out as so unreadable. However, the event was never that interesting to begin with. This comic just didn't resonate with me and it was on a variety of levels. I wouldn't recommend this comic.

The Names is a good comic. It's not a great one and it isn't one that feels too original but the issue is a good read. This is a series to keep your eye on. Whether you like single issues or collected editions from Vertigo I believe this series will be one you will want to own before it's all said and done.

So Wolverine is apparently going to die. This comic starts the reader down that path. There are a lot of faceless assassins gunning for him and a C-list villain, which oddly fits. The book is a nice setup of what's to come presumably, with some fantastic artwork and plenty of back matter. It's worth checking out but doesn't quite reach anywhere near a classic reads category. Give it a shot.

This comic book is more than a gimmick or a cool cover. It's ambitious storytelling. With that comes a high price for a misstep. I read this book three times before deciding if I loved it or hated it. Just remember to reread the comic and always use the Cluemaster's code. You might find this comic to be brilliant. I think if they had one more page or spent a little more time explaining the change of heart Grayson has with regards to killing then this comic would be near perfect.

Make no mistake, the first issue of this series was fantastic. Kirkman has since drifted both in focus and in technique of delivering his story and it is not working. This comic may turn itself around before the first arc is done but as an individual issue goes this left me with an empty feeling. If you pick this up you are taking a leap of faith that this will all make sense down the road.

Star Wars Legacy II is a fun series. With it only being 18 issues long there really isn't a good enough reason for a fan of the genre not to try it out. It definitely is a Solo-like comic book and this final issue uses the character to perfection. Even the most die-hard Han Solo fan would smile at how his distant descendant is used in this book. I enjoyed this comic book and found it to be a proper ending to the series. Dark Horse did the property right for over twenty years and there is a massive back catalog that proves me right. Check it out someday.

Superman is a tough character to get behind. He seems too boring and doesn't really have that great of a rogues gallery. However, Johns is giving us his carbon copy and is putting the pair through a few gates together to see how they differ in their reactions. Things seem to be heating up in this issue. I recommend checking it out.

The Fade Out looks like an instant classic. It's a noir style set story in the original noir time period. The book clocks in at twenty-eight pages and includes an essay in the back. It's truly a reading experience. It's definitely one to pick up.

Multiversity is finally here. The first issue feels like a straight read. Nothing too crazy happens but there seems to be a feeling that this is going to involve a tremendous amount of characters before it's all said and done. It will be an interesting ride.

Wayward is the kind of fish-out-of-water comic book that puts a character in a strange land and confronts them with strange things. In that vain it would have made more sense that she couldn't speak Japanese but there may be a reason for that to be revealed later. This book has an all-ages feel but seems to be more directed at the teenaged reader. It's a good comic but not one that I can see myself sticking with unless the story takes some unexpected turns.

Imperial is an interesting book. While you can find a ton of other books out there that provide super heroes as seen through a creator-owned set of eyes this one is slightly different. This comic has a charming lead character that feels like he's been plucked from your local comic book store. This is one to watch.

Moon Knight is an interesting character with a lot of incarnations and a complicated history. This six issue run is classic. This particular issue is a great look at the character from an unknown nobody. The comic punctuates the run nicely. I highly recommend checking this out.

Original Sin is an odd event. This mini-series really had potential to change the Hulk and Iron Man's histories in a meaningful way but it stops short of that. There are some decent ideas in here and a couple of nice punches but there isn't anything worth remembering after you've read it. If you are a fan of either character then this is a good comic to pick up. If you are looking to complete the event then this mini-series can be skipped.

Spread has two great things going for it: a strong lead character and an excellent monster cache. These two things make the comic book something different on the marketplace. The artwork and most of the narration help this book turn into something a little extra. If the book can stay away from the theatrics of the Walking Dead's chief villains then I think the comic has great potential. This issue is worth picking up.

Low is a comic book that gives action and adventure against the futuristic backdrop. Remender's letter in the back gives the reader an idea of how the characters came about, but it wasn't until I read the letter that I realized the wife was the chief protagonist and not the husband. There are a lot of pieces here to like but I'm not sure how everything fits just yet. This is worth checking out.

Outcast is definitely a horror comic book. While this issue feels almost like a depressing, slice-of-life kind of comic book the tone set by the art makes the reader understand that this is a dark and scary series. This issue is a much slower read than the previous issue. While setting up plot lines for future issues seems like a great idea, does it come at the expense of this issue? Is it too much? We'll have to see how the threads connect in future issues to determine the answers.

Sandman is a wonderful read. It's the kind of comic that you gaze at the artwork from front to back and then go back and read the contents and get a full read both ways. The book represents what's best about the comic book medium. Classic stuff.

It will be very interesting to see where things land when this mini-series completes. Based on the cliffhanger the next issue could be a complete game-changer. Either way, this issue gets Hulk and Iron Man fighting and sets the anger level to 'high' for Banner and the panic level to 'high' for Stark. This is worth picking up.

Batman is a fantastic read. It's no surprise that each issue manages to build a story in a way to provide a payoff at the end. This issue is the payoff and it delivers everything and more. This is the comic book to pick up this week. It captures much of what makes Batman and his supporting cast so special.

Thor and Loki and a new sister all living as one, big, dysfunctional family. While we aren't quite there yet, this comic brings the players closer together. This is proving to be a very intriguing mini-series and that means this issue is worth checking out. This mini-series might be a big-time, game-changer for the Marvel Universe and I don't think it should be missed. If you like Thor fighting a lot of winged women then you definitely need this comic book.

Johns and Romita Jr appear to be putting together a good series here. Sure, there are too many robot fights, but for the most part the book is taking a look at the characters and making them the focus. The Perry White opening pages are worth the price alone. Hopefully this book will continue the path it is on and become a smash hit. This is a decent book to pick up.

The comic book is fantasy and horror blended together. It has elements of Dark Crystal, Legend, Lord of the Rings and many other movies or novels in it. That helps because you can't sum up those stories in one issue either so this has some room to get some traction. I was hoping to at least like the characters coming out of this but that didn't quite happen. This comic needs some work in the next couple of issues if there is to be any kind of interest in the long run. This is a decent start story-wise and a visual masterpiece in the art department. Check it out.

Original Sin is a very plain event. There is nothing terrible about it and there is nothing memorable about it. There seems to be a mystery that is largely unexplored throughout this mini-series but the contents within is entertaining enough. This is turning out to be a Nick Fury story, so if you like Fury then this is going to be your event to enjoy. Not a bad read.

Whether you like the reinventing of the origin of Hulk or not this comic book is certainly weaving a good story into an established tale. The book is mostly set in the current time as Banner and Stark are trying to sort through the memory bomb that occurred in the Original Sin mini-series. When you read this book and then re-read the beginning of the previous issue the pieces are beginning to fall into place. This is a solid comic book to pick up.

Perhaps the reading of the will is in some way related to the memory-bomb that was unleashed in the main Original Sin storyline. I think that is a reach but there must be some connection to the event. In any case, this comic book has a couple of interesting ideas but doesn't get down to the reading of the will. Based on this issue's flub in terms of what the cover has on it versus what is in the comic book I can't see myself taking a chance on this comic a second time. Proceed with caution. I am sure there are much better X-Men books out there.

Grayson is a book that should be a smash hit. Nightwing as a spy sounds incredible. This first issue gives a good introduction to the character. It read like a one-shot, which is a good thing. It also gives great artwork. I'm not sold on the use of the supporting characters or of the usage of super powers. This book could turn out to be a complete winner but the opening issue is a bit subdued. We'll see. This is worth picking up though.

Original Sin is a strange event. This particular spin-off seems to be a Thor and Loki adventure having little to do with Original Sin and that is a good thing. This looks to be a fun adventure comic that leaves a lot of possibilities wide open. I enjoyed the first issue and urge Thor or Loki fans to pick this issue up.

Every once in a while a comic book comes along at the right time with the right kind of story that simply connects with an audience. Plenty of horror comics have come out in the past ten years, and many have become hits, but this one is not something that easily fits in with that bunch. Somehow, this comic looks like it will be changing the rules in comic book horror. This is the ground floor. I suggest checking it out.

Walking Dead is a great, great comic book. Some issues are sacrificed to build up to some big payoff down the road. This issue feels like this is the small step before the big one. It's a good read but not a whole lot happens in it. An average Walking Dead comic book is still among the very best reads you can find. Definitely pick this up.

Big Trouble continues to be a tongue-in-cheek, fun and wild ride. This issue adds some clarity to the task at hand and launches Jack and company into the plot. There's plenty of action and a lot of quick-wit dialogue that helps to keep the issue moving at a nice pace. Generally speaking this is a fun read. It's not going to blow your mind, but it is the kind of read where you can kick up your heels have a laugh or two. You know, kind of like reading comics should be like from time to time. I recommend checking this out.

This event is turning out to be one to skip. There simply isn't enough going on it. If you like Nick Fury then you should pick this issue up. If you want plot movement or are looking for something to tie into the story from the previous four issues then you have found the issue to skip. Good read, but odd unfortunately.

Southern Bastards is a great read. It feels like these characters are real and are written in a very realistic way. The book moves quickly and establishes the motives and counter-motives quickly. This is the kind of book where it leaves you wanting more at the end of each issue and that is a good thing. I highly recommend checking this comic book out.

Batman is DC's best comic book. There is no question about it. This issue brings the long storyline closer to a finale but each issue has been as great as the next with all the drama, action and surprises that you want in a Batman book. I recommend this title very highly.

As far as spin-offs go, this one doesn't appear to be at all essential to the main story. However, as a fan of either character then you will definitely want to pick this book up, especially if the revised origin sticks to the continuity. The book is light on action after the opening but gives a lot of in-depth character focus on both characters, but mostly through Stark's eyes. This is a good comic and a good start to this mini-series.

A lot of people are going to pick this issue up for speculative reasons, whether because it is a number one issue from Image or because it has hopes of a TV show. A lot of people will pick it up because of the creators involved, particularly Kirkman. However, this is a very good comic book and a great read. If you like self-enclosed stories that provide a heavy return on your investment then give this book a try regardless if you like horror books or not. This is one to pick up and enjoy the ride.

Superman looks to be a title that has a chance at something great. The bigger narrative is established in this issue. The characters are starting to get their foundations and it looks like Johns will be expanding on this in the coming issues. This is definitely something to pick up if you are looking for more of a classic view of Superman.

Original Sin is not that good. Each issue has some good barbs and has some interesting interactions but the mystery and detective work is not explored. The comic has uninteresting villains and the book just feels unimportant. I would trend lightly if you are considering picking this series up.

Star Wars is a great read for people looking for stories set in the original trilogy. Those that have read the novels set in the same time period might find too much overlap (how many times has Princess Leia been to the altar with a Prince?) but the characterizations feel spot on and the action is heavy and fitting. The comic feels a little rushed to wrap everything up but there is something satisfying in having a book blow so much up in one issue. This is one to pick up if you are looking at an old-school Star Wars story.

The Walking Dead is building up to the next blow-up so you need to sit tight through issues like this one. It's a decent read but nothing special. I'm sure while reading a trade paperback these pages would seem like opening pages but in single issues, they read like a throwaway issue unfortunately. One of the best books on the stands has an off issue here. It happens.

Winterworld is a good comic book. It has a fast pace, it provides enough character work to introduce them to the reader and it gives enough of a plot to get a reader vested in their fates. The pair has good chemistry, which is key to a book like this and the writing feels normal but with a touch of realism that you might not except to find in this type of gloomy story. I definitely recommend checking this comic book out.

With five issues to go it is hard to imagine what will happen next, but the opening issue provides a comprehensive and entertaining read. Batman gets a lot of panel time and all of it is right out of the TV show. The book struggles a little bit to bring the Hornet into the book in a unique way but there may be more for him down the road. This comic book is fun and definitely is worth checking out whether you've seen the old shows or not. Obviously, if you are only familiar with the Nolan Batman then you might get your world rocked. Check this comic out.

I had no idea what to expect with this comic book. Having not seen the movie in years I probably couldn't have summarized the plot with any accuracy, but I don't think that matters at all. The comic is loads of fun and provides plenty of entertainment. Boom has a potential hit with this one. I urge you to check it out.

Original Sin isn't shaping up to be an Earth-shattering event. However, it is also not looking like a total dud as Marvel has churned out a lot of recently. This individual comic has a nice payoff at the end but does feel like it is trying to balance too many characters in one issue. It reads like an advertisement at times for spin-off series as well. Overall, this is a good but not great read.

Batman is a great book under Snyder and Capullo and it has been the entire time under the New 52 banner. This particular issue stands out as a great one. I can't find any flaw in this book and this is the kind of issue you file in a spot where you can pull it up and re-read from time to time to get a charge of Batman. Great, great comic book.

Chew and Revival are two comics that are great long form reads. They have deep characters and mysteries that are vastly different but equally as intriguing. When they are brought together the differences may seem jarring but the heart of the stories have a lot in common. There is no real recommended reading order to this book, though the Chew book pokes fun at this. However you slice it, this comic is a great read and a great introduction into two great series. Give it a try.

Southern Bastards is the kind of comic book that presents an ugly set of characters in an ugly setting and somehow drains more ugly out of the barrel as the story progresses. Aaron has built a great character in Earl and he's given him the perfect foe in the football coach. This is a comic book that should not be missed.

Trees is a fantastic start to what looks to be a promising series. Ellis doesn't really provide any single character to focus on. Instead he introduces the set-up of the world ten years down the road after the invasions begins. He's selling the idea before giving you someone to potentially back as a character and it works well in this issue's execution. Warren Ellis books can definitely drift into some difficult storytelling but this one is very straightforward but brings big ideas to the table. I recommend checking this comic out.

Darth Maul is a great character. Even if bringing him back cheapens Kenobi a little bit, the character is better off not dead. This series feels like it was a rush to close out in time for the Dark Horse imposed deadline of August for publishing single Star Wars issues and that there was a scramble to connect the plot dots from the show. This is a below average book but hopefully it will turn around quickly.

The Last Broadcast is a bold mini-series filled with different ideas and wide-open directions for the plot. The opening issue does a terrific job of bringing the plot to the reader while rolling out the key characters. Without this balance the opening issue wouldn't have been able to grab the reader in the same way this comic book does. I definitely recommend checking this book out. The mini-series has the makings of a classic.

Amazing Spider-Man is a great comic book to pick up. The comic has a couple of longer term stories running while still cooking up a smaller plot that will probably end up being contained to the arc. The book has plenty of action and a lot of character work. I definitely recommend checking this comic out.

MPH is not your typical Mark Millar book. It's tame on the adult themes and content. It's light on the shocking images, such as gore. Instead, Millar tries to lay out a real example of someone that ends up in prison but gets an interest drug to try out. It's a decent comic book that I mildly recommend.

Original Sin isn't doing much in the opening act. There is some more setup in this issue and there are some decent interactions but that's really it. I'm not sure where this heading but at least the next issue ships in two weeks to speed this along. Hopefully this will turn around in a hurry. Another issue of setup is not going to cut it.

Batman Eternal is drifting. It burst on to the scene with four strong issues and has since fallen into crossover-like, unfocused issues. The past two issues feel like they are trying to force storylines simply to bring in other characters. While that might payoff down the road they make for an uneven read that puts some doubt about how well this series might hold up for six months or longer. Combine that with generally poor issue construction and the individual comic book is utterly forgettable. Hopefully this series will pick up and soon.

Star Wars has been a fantastic read issue to issue. The book's strength is that captures everything that makes Star Wars as fresh today as it was nearly forty years ago. This issue is one of those payoff issues that you've been waiting for. If you are looking for the classic Star Wars comic with the classic Star Wars characters then stop looking and seek this comic book out.

Walking Dead is a great book. The old formula was to build up a storyline and then have the reader duped when they least expect it and kill off a bunch of characters. This issue pulls the rug away immediately by placing the reader ahead two years and giving them new characters to follow. This is a good read and it will be interesting to see where Kirkman takes all of this. I can't overstate that this is the issue to pick up if you are brand new to this series.

Batman Eternal is the book to be reading if you want "current" Batman books. Unfortunately Batman is barely in this one and the plot that just started jumping off the ground is barely touched. It feels like editorial is barely linking these crossover books together and just hoping the ending ties it all out and the reader is satisfied. As an individual issue this is forgettable and uninteresting.

The question about this series is whether or not you care enough about the fractured, but nurturing relationship between Cyclops and his father. If that interests you then a Greg Rucka written book is going to be a potential classic. If that sort of book leaves you cold then it doesn't matter how interesting the future plots are, this comic isn't going to entertain you. I like the set up and now we'll wait to see what Rucka has in store for the pair.

This comic book is something special. There is no question that those that grew up during this time period will find something to relate to, but some of the themes transcend time and offer something for any reader. The comic also includes a play list in the back for the first five issues, which just enhances the overall reading experience. There are several places where you can find this book, such as iTunes (bit.ly/1fzcwj3) for digital copies or indyplanet.com or bradabraham.com for a hard copy. Track down a copy and give the book a try. You won't regret it.

Marvel loves a good event. They miss more than they hit. This one has the potential to be good but the first issue doesn't jump out of the gate very well. We'll see where this is all heading. Give it a shot, you might like it.

I'm not sure who this weekly series is aimed at. I can only guess it's aimed at the fans of these characters: Firestorm, Batman Beyond, Stormwatch and Grifter. If you like one of them and want to read a comic about them that comes out each week then here you have it. If not I'm not sure you should bother.

Batman Eternal is the pretty much the only "current" timeline Batman book out there now. The book seems to be ambitious in its plot scope but that seems fitting for Batman. This individual issue doesn't quite hit the mark as it reads very disjointed in of itself and doesn't seem in line with characterizations already established. This might be the dud in the bunch unfortunately.

Batman against Bane seems like something we might see a lot, but that probably isn't really the case. This is a good one-shot to pick up and check out if you like a good fight. I can't say the book is anything above average or even memorable but it does provide a level of entertainment. Proceed with caution the four dollar book.

Southern Bastards isn't an overly violent or stereotypical "southern" book. Instead, the comic presents a broken down town with some hard men causing trouble but where they see it all as normal everyday life. When you toss in someone that has seen it all before and has been away from it for a while then you have yourself a potential returning hero. This is a great issue and it looks to be a great series.

A weekly Batman book has the potential to be a disaster but this one is shaping up to be a very good read. The comic is introducing some old characters to keep the reader happy that things are changing while giving the overall story a believable villain to keep Batman and Gotham in dire straits for a few issues. If you like a good Batman story then strap yourselves in because it appears you will get it in this comic book.

Elektra is a tough character to get behind. In some ways she is too much like Wolverine, she is too many things and master of none, but a really cool character nonetheless. This issue has the right idea for the first three quarters of the book. It provides a clunky, but effective information dump of the character's background. Then, it launches into a plot while providing motivation and an intriguing mystery. But then the book falls into an odd transition to another character that doesn't quite flow with the rest of the issue. The artwork is pitch perfect that is the big plus. If you aren't a fan of the character there probably isn't much in here to rope you into the series. However, it does read fairly well overall.

You have to ask yourself if you are ready for an event about The Watcher. This issue will at least fill you in about the character. What's interesting is that the author of the event is Jason Aaron and not Mark Waid, but Waid provides the opening. This is an okay comic book but hardly worth the money and is definitely forgettable.

The war is over. The ending leaves open a lot of potential storylines. We'll see where this is all heading. I enjoyed the comic book but found an awful lot of lazy detailing in the story and the art. Kirkman has had many better single issues but this is still among the best on the stands.

Batman is the best book on DC's schedule and has been for some time. The book has a consistent story that jumps around the timeline but holds true to the character and puts the pieces in place of a bigger story that keeps Snyder's overall theme in mind perfectly. This particular issue puts Batman and Gotham in one of the worst positions possible but the joy will be watching Batman pull himself and the city out of it. It's a good issue and is one of the best reads month in and out. I recommend checking this comic out.

Batman Eternal has the luxury of moving the story along quickly because of the weekly schedule. However, the components showing in the first two issues don't really seem to warrant a weekly comic book. The ideas just don't feel that special. We'll see where all of this is heading. This will entertain you but will it entertain enough to keep your interest weekly? I'm not sure about that.

The Hulk is a property that is always going to have a tough time finding something new to do with the character. You can put him in space, make him smart, make him dumb, spilt his mind in two, remove his mind, make him a villain, make him an agent, but ultimately you will run out of something new. This issue sort of proves that point. However, if the execution is good then the repetitive story won't matter. If this book wanders into the Bruce Jones conspiracy story then this book will be dead on arrival. Time will tell but this issue doesn't give me a ton of hope. We shall see how this plays out.

Sinestro seems like a great character to have an ongoing for a villain. I never quite understood why the Red Lanterns got their own book but not Sinestro or the Yellow Corps. Now that the book is here it seems like there isn't any new ideas in the first issue. We'll see where this is heading. The curious reader might like what they see. As far as reading goes, it's an average comic.

Batman Eternal seems to be a comic that is catering to the broadest of fan bases. This is the comic to sample if you are curious about Batman but don't have a lot of strong ideas about what the characters stand for and are about. The Batman fan that knows these characters inside and out are going to struggle with a lot of small things, like Batman's very un-Batman-like dialogue. This is a series to watch and an issue to try but it's nothing special yet.

If you are willing to drop ten bucks on a comic book about Deadpool then you probably will like this issue. If you are a fan of the character and loved some of the character's creators over the years then this book is probably a dream come true. To me, it's a little bit too much Deadpool, but I was still entertained for a good stretch of time. At the very least, pick this up off the shelf and look at the cover for a while.

Flash Gordon is the kind of series that should be equal parts strong characters, science fiction and plenty of action. This opening issue dabbles in all of those areas but they aren't strong enough to lure me in for a second issue. If you are fan of Parker but haven't gotten into Flash Gordon before then this series might be something to check out. I'm not sure the long time Flash Gordon fan is going to find what they are looking for in here though.

Walking Dead is simply an unpredictable book. This issue is proof of that. The finale ships in two weeks and it's anyone's guess as to what happens. This is as good as it gets in comics. I'd check this issue out.

Caliban looks to be epic in nature, but in the confined space way in the tradition of 2001 or Alien. The comic is off to a great start as Ennis provides a strong core cast and a good mystery for the reader to ponder. If this is turning towards a horror comic then Ennis isn't giving that away in the first issue. This is a book worth checking out.

Moon Knight is definitely shaping up to becoming a must-read book in Marvel's catalogue. It's clear that Ellis doesn't plan to follow any sort of predictable path issue to issue and so far, both issues have been self-contained ones. This is definitely an issue to pick up.

The artwork continues to be a delight. The artwork captures all of the emotion, excitement and wonder that goes into a story like this one. Duke is a depressed guy but space travel obviously gets him to smile again and the artwork captures this perfectly. The book has a detailed look and the colors sit nicely on top of the pencils. This is a very good art presentation.

Overall, this comic is basically like any other in the previous forty-five. There's some cool action in it, some cool artwork and no plot gets completely resolved, it just follows right into the next. To take advantage of the anniversary issue IDW would have been better served putting together something truly special and different. It's an enjoyable read. It's simply not a special one.

The new launch for Silver Surfer is a cosmic adventure with ties to Earth. It's a good read and brings out an interesting plot and introduces a very intriguing supporting cast of characters. This could be a very interesting book and I recommend at least checking out the first issue.

The Wake has a nice surprise or two in this issue towards the end. It's the kind of issue that makes you want to go back and re-read what came before but impatiently wait for the next issue. It's an issue that looks slow to start off but certainly doesn't stay that way. This is another issue to be sure to pick up.

The Walking Dead is in the middle of a strange arc for this book. It's a long arc, but one that is moving at a lightning pace. The comic book feels like an incomplete read in some ways, perhaps because the scenes seem to end without warning. The book's arc is also diminished because of Negan. The character simply overpowers anything else in the comic book and this is going to make for a painful reading experience if he does die at the end of this. As always, The Walking Dead sits atop the read list for the week.

Dawn of the Jedi started as an epic but concludes in what feels like a race to the finish line. The ending is satisfactory for some of the characters involved in terms of their fates but there are too many question marks to make this a comprehensive ending. When you finish a story and think to yourself, "that's it?" then you know you have a problem.

Furman wraps up his run on Tranformers that he began some twenty-five years ago. The evolution of his storytelling is quite impressive. The finale uses some very complicated ideas to get across a simple point. Just because a story ends it doesn't mean that the imagination can't take the characters and their stories even further. Whether it's another comic, a book, a movie or a short story, people and their ideas will always find a way to push the ball ahead. The goal line that Furman leaves the ball here is a good one and feels like the ending the book should have had but didn't get the chance all those years ago. I recommend checking this out and going back re-reading Furman's fifty issue run from Marvel to IDW.

The first issue of American Vampire provides the reader, new or old, with the introduction of two of the main characters. While letting the reader get to know the pair we also get a bit of a taste of the threat surrounding the characters and the time period. The book is usual level of stellar storytelling and amazingly detailed artwork. Welcome back American Vampire. You've been missed.

This comic is proof that a very old concept can still be made to feel fresh and be found interesting. It's all in the execution. It will be interesting to watch this character grow into her powers and face new challenges as they hit her. This is definitely a book to check out.

Thor is a fantastic read. It's been the steadiest reads all along and it seems to only be getting better. This issue brings together two, seemingly, unrelated plots. It looks to be a classic arc in the making. I wonder what Jack Kirby would say if he read this one.

Batman is one of the best books out there today and is DC's strongest book by far since the inception of the New 52. This particular issue ties up a lot of the Year Zero storylines that have been cooking for a while now. The comic doesn't reinvent anything in the Batman mythos but augments some adventures to his already rich history. This is a very good issue and is one I recommend checking out. Where does Snyder go from here?

The Walking Dead is throwing everything up against the wall in this arc. This particular issue seems to break away from the rest as the action appears to kick-in drive towards the conclusion. The cliffhanger is a good one as it seems to tease something a bit unthinkable. This is a very good read. It will be interesting to see what comes next as the prospect of three and a half issues of battles might be impossible to pull off.

Captain Marvel is a terrific first issue. The direction for the series is set and this issue moves those pieces nicely into place. There isn't anything complicated to understand or some world threat to deal with. It's a person that decides for herself to break away and doing something she needs to do. Great start to a series and one everyone should keep their eye on if they aren't already picking this book up. This one has "Hawkeye of 2014" written all over it.

This comic book isn't awful, but it is definitely forgettable. I had hoped for a story that was more engaging for five dollars and this one feels too much like spare parts with a wrapper to bookend the thing. There is a lot to pick on in the comic (such as the mutant referring to himself as a human) but the construction and presentation of the comic is the main problem. The book had the right idea and two solid characters to execute the story but the book just didn't come close.

The comic book is a great read and really has a fantastic pace to it. Obviously the cliffhanger is an attention grabber but all that came before is enough to jump on board with this series anyway. The comic book is on the way to becoming something special and I recommend getting in on the ground floor. This is your chance.

Magneto is a good opening issue. It merges the ideals that the lead character holds along with his questionable decision making. The comic frames out his mindset and gives off some complex ideas to try to pin the character down to. This seems more like a man that's lost kind of story than a super-hero/super-villain story. This is a good opening issue to check out.

Moon Knight is not a comic book to pass up. The character gets defined in this issue, but a twist is added to his existence at the very end. Within the book we get a little bit of the day to day life in terms of what the super-hero does and whom he interacts with. The book has a small amount of action but some gory scenes are involved. Overall, you shouldn't miss this issue and I suspect this is going to be a hit series on the level of Hawkeye. This is a great start.

Starlight is an old concept. An old hero, with or without superpowers, has one last hurrah. This book tries to make this variation a little different by providing a very sad setup for the main character. The book is a good first step. I recommend checking this out. This isn't your typical Millar book (if one exists).

Veil is one of those opening issues that is simply the first chapter of a collection. First issues are difficult enough to start off with a bang but when it's a finite story then it generally can't provide the story to give you a satisfactory single issue. That's why you have to gut it out and hope the payoff comes by the end of the arc or mini. The artwork is certainly enough to draw any reader back for a second issue and Rucka obviously is a name that brings a lot of success along for the ride. That should be enough to pick up this book even if the first issue isn't quite a compelling read by itself.

The Fantastic Four is a book that has seen some epic runs, two notable ones in the last 10 years. This issue shows that the book is returning to basics but is setting up something epic. The issue is a great point for a new reader to jump on. There aren't a lot of references to previous issues but there is some nice backstory. The book has some action and has some nice character defining moments for a reader to get comfortable getting to know them. This is a comic to pick up.

Lois Lane is a good comic to pick up. It feels like it's more of a story about Lucy than Lois but there is certainly a good focus on Lois and detective/reporter skills. The plot is a strange one, but different. This is the kind of book that makes you wonder why DC doesn't find a way to give her a solo series. Anyway, this is a good and dense read for your five bucks. I recommend checking this out.

The Wake is off to a great second act. The comic is a horror book that is setting up the complex plot. There is a lot to like in here and a lot of moving parts, but even if you just look at the visuals you will get your money's worth in entertainment. This is a must-have book.

This was a good read. I think this one is better than the previous slower issue. This gives some deception, some tactic talk and some nice (potentially good-bye) conversations. Plus, you get a lot of Negan, which is a good thing. The All Out War seems to be moving to the final battle. It's not clear how the next four issues will play out but the tension is beginning to be felt. This is a good book to pick up.

Harley Quinn isn't a villain book. It's a character book where the lead happens to be the former girlfriend of the Joker. She will kill when necessary but for the most part she's just trying to make her way through life. It's a good one-shot to pick up and get an idea of what the character is all about. If you are looking for something fun to read with a touch of violence then this is one to check out.

Amazing X-Men is a comic that is bringing together a lot of A-list named X-Men to rescue Nightcrawler from the afterlife. It turns out, in this issue, that he is rescuing them. It's a fun ride and is definitely a book to check out. You will find some sweet moments, some fun moments, plenty of action and a lot of big time visuals. Give the book a shot if you are looking to kick back and just be entertained for a change.

I was lukewarm about the first issue, but this issue pushes the book into overdrive. We learn more about the overall plot, we see more clearly why being in Los Angeles is different than New York and we get a great cliffhanger. This is definitely a book worth picking up.

Undertow is a politically charged science-fiction book. It uses a lot of real-life components but puts them in a new setting. The comic features two characters, one of which is a very grisly and interesting one. The book has a lot of potential but it is clear this issue is meant to simply begin the long story rather than shock and awe the reader. This is the ground floor to something that will probably have a bigger payoff down the road.

Why DC didn't just make this a flipbook with the regular Year Zero storyline I have no idea. To completely remove the Year Zero story that's been running in this series for months is a cheap move. The contents are good and I think some of the fans will be thrilled but there isn't enough in this issue to make me want to run out and buy Batman Eternals. This is a decent read but if you are looking for that groundbreaking level of Batman storytelling you normally get in this comic series then skip this issue.

This isn't your rank and file super-hero comic book. It has charisma and showcases She-Hulk's personality. The comic might be too heavy on the lawyer stuff but it has a payoff within this issue. This is a good comic that tells a self-enclosed story and introduces the title character very nicely for the new series. I recommend checking this out.

The premise and artwork are fantastic, but the plot and character work aren't fully baked in this issue. The ingredients are certainly all there for this to be a smash hit. A little more clarity around the full cast on the ship and some more character definition and I think the book will be closer. The plot will unfold so that will be there. There's a lot here to like it just doesn't quite connect all the way in this comic. This is worth checking out.

This mini-series is probably targeting a niche market of readers. You've probably read a lot of comics that provide super heroes in a real life setting and there is some of that to some degree. The comic seems to cater to World War II battle and political buffs but other readers might pick this up and enjoy it. I recommend giving this a try.

Walking Dead rolls on with another consistent issue. At this point it makes sense that this is a breather issue because it is the seventh in a twelve issue arc. The shining star in the issue is Negan and this seems to always be the case. It will be interesting to see how Rick raises morale to keep this fight going. Right now, he and his people sure looks defeated.

It's not often that a first issue takes the premise of the book and turns it into a mystery with different characters other than the lead running the show throughout the book. This is a great way to approach the Winter Soldier and Remender brings together a complete and terrific read to start things off. This is definitely a book to get in on now before it takes off and you are left playing catch-up.

Joker's Daughter gives some details into the character's past but is mostly a book that brings the character to the next level of evil. She's a character that wants to be villainous, that wants to be a big player in the underworld but clearly doesn't have what it takes. However, in this issue she turns the corner and starts on the path that can lead to being a viable Batman villain. If DC continues to push this character then this comic book is going to become essential reading. I urge you to give this one a shot.

The opening issue is a good one. The backstory doesn't break any new ground except that involves an uncommon ethnicity. The ending is confusing if you are unfamiliar with the powers and transformation into the title character but it might not matter to every reader. Overall, the main character is a charming one and if the book focuses on her secret identity more than her super-hero alter ego then the book will be a hit. This is worth picking up.

The new volume of the Punisher feels like more of the same except it's in a new city. It's unclear how or even if the police don't know that Frank Castle is The Punisher. Without being told the character is in Los Angeles would the reader even notice? Does it matter where Castle operates? The book still has plenty of room to establish itself in the city's characteristics to match up the move across country and its importance in the story. We'll see. For now this is just another Punisher story.

The new volume of Wolverine opens with an issue that is a direction shift for the character but tries to drag in all that came before in the previous volume. It seems to cater to the readers of the old volume which is perfectly fine. I'm not sure the curious reader is going to find this book as inviting as the #1 seems to imply. It's worth taking a look at.

Saga moves into the next phase of the story at the conclusion of this issue and it definitely looks promising. This issue contains a lot of closure but not on everything. There are plenty of plot threads that are left very open-ended and that will help to keep the reader on the edge of their seats waiting for this book to return in May. Saga is simply one of the very best books on the stands and this is just another issue in the long line of great ones. This is a book that should be on your pull list.

Thor is a great book under Jason Aaron. This is the kind of issue that any reader can pick up and get an idea of how Aaron approaches the character. Thor is a deep character despite the surface view of fighting, drinking and womanizing and Aaron tackles those themes well throughout the series. This is a very example of that. This is a good read and I definitely recommend it.

Batman and Robin is a fun read. It's a one-shot that really helps to juxtapose Dick's attitude when he took on being Robin versus Damian's general superiority complex. The book gives enough character work to make it worth reading but it also provides some action to help push the book along at a nice pace. This is definitely worth reading despite the problems with the artwork.

The opening issue of Serenity relies heavily on the reader knowing the film and its characters. It's not to say a new fan won't enjoy this but it does feel a lot like a tenth issues rather than a first. I liked the re-visitation of the characters from the film and found the plot to be a good starting point. Join that with some nice art and you have a good start to this series. It will be interesting to see where the Whedons take this.

Batman continues to be a compelling read every month. This is the comic book series to pick up even if this issue isn't up to the usual high level of storytelling all the way through. This issue has too much focus on other's lecturing Bruce. It's good stuff, but perhaps split up would have made the difference. There's something to be said for pacing I suppose. Anyway, you can't go wrong with this comic book.

Wood's run on Conan has been very good. The long view is one of a love story. This comic closes the book on the love story and unleashes a bloodbath of rage as Conan makes the decision to survive. Even it means carrying on alone. This is such a great read.

"All Out War" continues to be epic in nature. There is no shortage of death and fighting in this comic book. While questions linger as a result of this issue they may play out in the remaining six issues of the story. This is a fast-paced and very good read. If you want war then you get war in this comic.

Deadly Class offers up an issue that is mostly origin story but it helps to fully introduce the lead character. The comic book has a lot of background so that the reader gets a good idea what the lead character is all about. The book has some action and advances the overall story to the next phase very nicely. This book is one to pick up without a doubt.

Hacktivist has the potential to be great. The first issue rolls out a couple of interesting characters. They could end up being cookie-cutter characters, but they could also be something special. The opening issue feels a little disjointed but at least we get a good idea of what the plot elements will be for this mini-series. The pieces are in place and hopefully this mini-series will pull it all together before it's done.

Seekers of the Weird is probably a niche book. Fans of Disney and of the attractions might be curious enough to check this out but generally speaking those readers that like adventure and mystery but nothing over the top might find something to like here. I plan to check out the series to see where this is headed. This is a good start.

Amazing X-Men is a fun comic so far. It remains to be seen as to how this title will fit in and differ from the other X-Men books but for now this is the comic that brings back Nightcrawler. So far, the arc is a good one and is bringing something different to the table. This is worth checking out.

Curse is off to a promising start. The initial issue wastes no time by giving a personality to the lead character, showing the capabilities of the werewolf and getting down to the blood. The plots that are introduced don't mature in this issue but the setup seems sound enough to check out the rest of the series. This is a good first comic to what looks to be a promising mini-series.

The arc is a great one. It isn't the best of Jason Aaron's run but this finale is on par with any finale of his previous Thor arcs. The comic has everything in it to tug the reader in one direction or another and that is a big plus while reading this comic book. I definitely recommend checking this out.

Fatale is a great series. Not every issue reads individually great as they are all a part of a larger tapestry. However, this issue is simply pulse-pounding. The book is eerie and evil. The comic book leaves the reader feeling exhausted emotionally after completing this book because of the torture that Brubaker drags his cast through. Even if you aren't reading this series or aren't up on this particular arc I urge you to check this out if you like good old fashioned thrillers.

This issue is a good read. It's not great but it is first-step good. There is certainly enough here for any reader to want to pick up the next issue and that should be all that any comic aspires towards.