The Avengers #1 is a rollicking good time, a blockbuster film in 30 pages, and a beautifully drawn comic that immediately recalls the legacy of Jack Kirby's iconic Avengers.

The best issues of Amazing Spider-Man are typically the simplest and this issue is no different. Peter is given a difficult moral choice, with no correct answer, and to make this all the more delicious the results of this decision are complicated by both his Peter Parker and Spider-Man personas.

A twist-turny done-in-one was exactly the kind of story the pages of Amazing Spider-Man needed right now as writer Dan Slott charts a course back towards greatness for this wayward series. Guest artist Greg Smallwood and his art team are the perfect fit for this mystical Green Goblin tale that makes a great case for why he's been such a captivating character for so long.

Secret Wars #1 has made me a believer in a storyline I once dismissed. Rarely have all of Marvel's characters and universes come together and felt so cohesive. This herculean task is handled by Jonathan Hickman and Esad Ribic so effortlessly that many may miss out on what makes this task just so spectacular.

Dennis Hopeless weaves a satisfying conclusion to the "Spider-Women" event, ensuring that each character is given her proper focus. With Nico Leon's likeable art, this supersized issue packs in enough action and character development to intrigue any Spider-fan.

Superior Spider-Man #26 sets up the potential for a terrific ending to the series with some wonderful art, well-written characters, sly plot twists, and clever storytelling.

Welcome back Peter! Amazing Spider-Man (vol. 3) #1 is a fun, splashy, good time. It isn't the most substantial comic story ever told but it does what all good first issues should by setting up a ton of potentially great stories and dramatic situations.

Amazing Spider-Man: Learning to Crawl #1.1 harkens back to a simpler but no less morally complex time in the life of Peter Parker. The art is beautiful and the story reverential, in a great way, thanks to Ramon Perez and Dan Slott. It begs for more stories be told in this time period of Spider-Man's existence.

Amazing Spider-Man: Learning to Crawl #1.4 gets the series back on track with two solidly conflicting characterizations of Peter Parker and Clayton Cole, both struggling to understand the responsibilities of their powers.

Amazing Spider-Man #9 is a great beginning to the "Spider-Verse" storyline that begins to put Peter back into the driver's seat. Now that the introductions of both the heroes and villains are out of the way, let the war begin!

Amazing Spider-Man #11 finally pits Peter against Otto and shakes up the "Spider-Verse" story enough to create real danger for the lead characters. Still, it gets bogged down in some unnecessary exposition and service to the spinoff books.

Writer Dan Slott returns to writing his signature character, Otto Octavius, for another satisfying and tantalizing prelude to "The Clone Conspiracy." Meanwhile, the art team, led by R.B. Silva, delivers an absolutely stunning issue that should define the look of a modern ongoing Spider-Man comic.

Amazing Spider-Man (vol. 4) #23 highlights the appeal of the clone stories in the Spider-Man mythos, namely that Peter is forced to face his past mistakes and relationships in a way that challenges and illuminates what makes him both special and damaged.

Amazing Spider-Man #798 is another excellent chapter in the "Go Down Swinging" arc, paving the way for a potentially stunning finale to Dan Slott's tenure on the book. Slott has tried to emphasize the importance of Peter as Spider-Man in nearly all of his major stories and "Go Down Swinging" seems no different. We've seen mixed results in the past, with "Spider-Island" and Superior Spider-Man succeeding wonderfully and "Spider-Verse" falling a bit flat. All have had strong starts, but there is definitely something special about the intimate stakes of "Go Down Swinging" that calls back to Slott's best work on the title. Let's hope he hits a home run.

Amazing Spider-Man: Family Business does what an original graphic novel should. It introduces a new concept that might not fit in normal continuity, beautiful artwork, and a bold story that is too genre specific and continuity heavy to fit into a movie while still offering the same scope and cinematic experience.

Superior Spider-Man #27.NOW delivers a wonderful introduction to a story that has been building for year.

Amazing Spider-Man #2 isn't ground-breaking or earth-shattering. No, it's better than it. It is a fun tale of some wonderfully depicted characters whose lives are determined by and balanced between their responsibilities to themselves and others... you know, a classic Spider-Man tale!

Amazing Spider-Man #5 effortlessly weaves in and out of Spider-Man's world with great humor and pacing. Only some questions characterizations can derail a book this electric.

Amazing Spider-Man #7 is a fun team-up with wonderful characterization. It amusingly and hauntingly builds the path towards "Spider-Verse" while filling out all the new characters that will be involved in that epic.

Amazing Spider-Man #10 brings the Superior Spider-Man and his team into the fray for some wonderful characterizations and actions. The story is mainly set-up for future conflicts and spinoffs but the art and dialogue are so expertly handled that readers will likely accept a momentary bump in "Spider-Verse"'s momentum.

Amazing Spider-Man #16.1 is a wonderful introduction to the "Spiral" story and a brilliant reintroduction for Gerry Conway as a writer on the title. The art doesn't quite fit the subject matter's tone but Peter's voice is as clear as day in a story that thematically and narratively challenges all the rules he's established for himself.

Amazing Spider-Man #18.1 provides the type of introspective and morally-challenges story that many expected we'd get from the book in the post-Superior era. That it breathes new life into characters' stories that have been largely uneven in the proper Amazing Spider-Man title and comments on real world events makes this one special book.

Amazing Spider-Man (vol. 4) #10 takes full advantage of the new status quo of the series to deliver some unforgettable action sequences, solid laughs, and most of all, Spider-Man in his most essential form.

While Amazing Spider-Man (vol. 4) #17 does rehash a good deal of the events of the previous issue, it does provide an even more intriguing look behind the scenes of the Jackal's clone-inspired plans. While the wait for "Clone Conspiracy" is all the more painful, readers should delight in the wonderful addition of R.B. Silva's expressive artwork.

Silk #5 isn't groundbreaking, revolutionary, or a masterpiece, but it is what superhero comic book storytelling can do the best... tell a fun story through snappy dialogue and smart visuals.

Superior Spider-Man#25 is another successful comic from Slott, Gage, and Ramos that is full of fun twists, turns, and striking art. Though it might be too much of a good thing.

Superior Spider-Man Annual #2 harkens back to a time when Spider-Man books were character centric and in-doing-so delivers a great chapter in the "Goblin Nation" storyline.

Amazing Spider-Man: The Clone Conspiracy #1 is an promising introductory chapter to this year's big Spider-Man event. Write Dan Slott makes the book new-reader accessible while teasing interesting wrinkles to the story and rewriting history in a heartbreaking way. Meanwhile, legendary artists Jim Cheung and Ron Frenz elevate the art in this book to the heights worthy of a major event.

Amazing Spider-Man #3 places a redesigned Black Cat at the forefront for a fun confrontation with the confused and out-of-place Peter. The story works for the most part but has some muddled motivations when the fighting begins.

Amazing Spider-Man Special #1 is a strong team-up book with a solid grasp on what made old-school Spider-Man and his superhero friends so delightful when put together. The Inhumans aren't the most interesting bunch but when art and writing are this fun I'd read a team-up with Spider-Man and the Harlem Globetrotters.

Amazing Spider-Man #6 is a solid introductory issue to this series second storyline, featuringing the return of Mr. Negative and Cloak & Dagger. It is also a huge improvement on previous issues of this series as it personalizes the conflicts, grounds readers in Peter's new status quo, and settles down in a singular location. Plus, this is the dramatic debut of new artist Matteo Buffagni, whose pencils go a far way to bring the characters of this book to life.

Amazing Spider-Man #791 is another tidy, well-executed story from Dan Slott and Stuart Immonen though elements of it were a little rushed and unfleshed. Still, big things seem to be on the horizon for Spider-Man, and it will be interesting to see where things go next.

Carnage #7 is a slow build of a book, as the titular monster takes a backseat to Gerry Conway's intriguing exposition. Mike Perkin's haunting, heavily-contrasted artwork continues to remain a standout amongst Marvel's flashy, low-contrast artistic default.

Exploring some of Silk's personal issues while throwing her off balance as she discovers who she is in this reality, Silk #7 balances both the needs of the character and the larger event story nicely. Artwork is shaky in some places, but Tana Ford is improving, delivering a good issue for this character.

The Superior Foes of Spider-Man #10 might be a fill-in issue but it still maintains much of the charm and wit that the series is known for.

Superior Spider-Man #28 successfully transitions the series into the fast lane, as Spider-Man and his supporting cast begin to clash against overwhelming forces. Doctor Octopus's armor is beginning to weaken faster than he can handle.

Amazing Spider-Man: Learning to Crawl #1.2 continues to tell the tale of Peter's early days, but gets mired in continuity and plotting that only Spider-Man enthusiasts will fully appreciate.

Amazing Spider-Man: Learning to Crawl #1.3 hasn't really made its themes and ideas clear yet but what is here is fun to read, if uneven, and beautiful to look at.

Amazing Spider-Man: Learning to Crawl #1.5 brings the series to a heartfelt and comedic conclusion. Still, there is some lost potential here to take a strong look at how great power and be greatly mishandled.

Amazing Spider-Man #16 gets back to basics for a fun recap issue that allows Humberto Ramos' pencils to steal the show. With the emphasis back on the characters, this book seems like it is headed in the right direction, even if most of the narrative here is a retread.

Amazing Spider-Man Annual #1 is completely inconsequential and disposable for those readers who are hooked on the plot heavy "Spider-Verse." Those looking for a good laugh and some wonderful character moments will get a lot out of the "I Can't Help Myself" main story.

Amazing Spider-Man #1.1 is as promising start to a series, with beautiful artwork and honest character writing, but it is lacking an emotional hook to pull in readers and propel its titular character to action.

Amazing Spider-Man (vol. 4) #14 continues to build Regent as a credible threat to Spider-Man and his supporting cast, even if it feels a bit like deja vu. Artist Giuseppe Camuncoli and colorist Marte Gracia craft a book full of recognizable but varied artwork that's fits the bill.

Writer Dan Slott's Amazing Spider-Man (vol. 4) #16 presents a compelling dilemma for its guilt-driven protagonist; one that may spell tragedy for Spider-Man as readers move inevitably closer towards "Dead No More." Overpowering several clunky dialogue scenes is a truly dazzling rescue sequences rendered by the ongoing art team of Giuseppe Camuncoli, Cam Smith, and Marte Gracia that brings back the transforming fun of the Spider-Mobile for an equally exciting Spider-Cycle.

Amazing Spider-Man (vol. 4) #20 finally fills in all the details regarding Doctor Octopus's resurrection and while there's fun to be had the content of the issue could definitely have been succintly told in the backup story of The Clone Conspiracy.

Amazing Spider-Man (vol. 4) #29 emphasizes Peter Parker's fickle nature to a fault, but contains enough witty writing and delicious visuals, headed by superstar artist Stuart Immonen, that this "Secret Empire" story gets a shaky start on the right foot.

Amazing Spider-Man #4 is strong for a mandatory tie-in but fails to shock or awe with its reveal that feels more like a retread than anything truly revelatory.

Amazing Spider-Man #13 has a couple of nice character and action moments but still feels far too bloated and unfocused for a story that is nearing its conclusion.

"Spider-Verse" comes to a less than satisfying conclusion with all of the Spider-Man universe's chess pieces essentially reset. This final issue is a bit too obsessed with advertising other titles and reestablishing the status quo to tell an emotionally satisfying tale but the quieter nature of the ending does allow for a few character moments to sneak in.

Gerry Conway's grasp of Spider-Man's voice is nearly unparalleled but Amazing Spider-Man #17.1 is confused about its protagonist and has been paired with artwork completely discordant with its themes and atmosphere.

Amazing Spider-Man #18 is a stunner when it comes to art. Ramos, Olazaba, and Delgado are at the top of their game here with two one-page spreads that are on fire. Slott and Gage conclude their story in a somewhat satisfying way while still not providing Peter room to shine in his own book.

Peter Parker remains Dan Slott's least consistent character, but he makes up for it with his charming supporting cast. Giuseppe Camuncoli continues to deliver reliable pencils, even in dialogue heavy scenes, but especially during heightened bouts of costumed action.

Amazing Spider-Man (vol. 4) #13 continues to struggle in terms of putting forward a relatable and exciting protagonist in Spider-Man. However, the beautiful art and clever supporting cast continue to surprise and excite.

Amazing Spider-Man (vol. 4) #15 is a step in the right direction for this flailing series, but still continues to not only repeat recent storylines but also previous mistakes. Peter continues to be a secondary character in his own title, the writing makes unearned leaps in logic and thematic resonance, and the villains' characterizations remain one-note and unable to support multiple-issue story arcs.

Amazing Spider-Man: Renew Your Vows #5 has some narrative thrills and wonderful art, but doesn't answer its central thematic question satisfyingly.

Spider-Verse #4 continues the upwards trajectory of the quality of both the writing and artwork for this series. As the pieces start to fall into place, it is Costa's clear and distinct voices for the characters and Araujo's fun action that make this book standout.

Superior Spider-Man #29 feels like a slight update into the ongoing "Goblin Nation" storyline that is further complicated by the relationship between the Goblin and Spider-Man's identity.

Superior Spider-Man #30 features a well-crafted story whose emotions never hit as it rushes Peter back into the role of Spider-Man.

Superior Spider-Man #31 brings the series to a close with an anti-climatic and rushed finale. After spending so much time building up to this moment, the story rushes through all the inherent dramatic potential in favor of setting up a new status quo for the new title.

All-New, All-Different Avengers FCBD is a pretty standard superhero comic whose biggest surprise is drawn on the cover. The story teases a few elements about Marvel's upcoming status quo but doesn't really manage to excite the reader. Still, the tone is fun and breezy, a quality a book titled "Avengers" hasn't had in quite awhile.

Amazing Spider-Man #6 has the things that make comics special: punchy jokes, dynamic action, beautiful artwork, and bright colors. However it is missing the things that makes them work picking up every month: consistent characterization, motivations, and a defined protagonist.

Amazing Spider-Man #8 is a largely forgettable story that continues to stall for the start of "Spider-Verse." The relaunch of Amazing Spider-Man has yet to find its emotional hook or a starring character, one would hope it would be Peter Parker, and this particular issue does little to mitigate that.

Amazing Spider-Man #12 is a narrative stall for a story that needed a boost. "Spider-Verse" repeats familiar beats instead of presenting any new themes, character beats, or genuine surprises. This is a practice in excess instead of focus and it is lesser for it.

This issue of Amazing Spider-Man might be a bit of a mixed bag, tossed around by "Secret Wars" and shallow ongoing characterization, but the art team continues to stun and a late-game twist promises an exciting next issue.

The "Venom Inc." crossover remains a mixed back as it enters its latter half, featuring a muddled, action-over-character oriented story but sparking to life in its McFarlane inspired visuals. By this issue's end there's a spark of intrigue that's undermined by the story's overcomplicated machinations.

This FCBD title is unlikely to bring new readers to either the Steve Rogers: Captain America title or the Amazing Spider-Man title despite the level of craft involved in both short stories. Of the two, the Spider-Man story is both more fun and does a better job of teasing the future "Dead No More" storyline. As far as free comics are concerned, readers certainly will feel their time was well spent.

The conclusion to Gerry Conway and Carlo Barberi's "Spiral" is not quite so much of a "BANG" as it is the sound of inevitability. The book has some interesting internal moments for Peter Parker but is also full of dangling threads and repetitions of previous plot beats that are never subverted.

Amazing Spider-Man #1.2 definitely contains the international flavor missing from the main Amazing Spider-Man series but it continues to struggle to find its hook. The featured Santarians are awkwardly included and instantly forgettable, if not perfunctory to this story, and the heavy exposition spends to much time clarifying why this story exists rather than just getting on with the story at hand.

Amazing Spider-Man (vol. 4) #21 is yet another entry in the ongoing "Clone Conspiracy" event that sees the story stuck rehashing old plot beats and joylessly forcing its way through all the complicated exposition it needs to set up the future events.

Amazing Spider-Man (vol. 4) Annual #1 is a bit of a mixed bag, which should come as no surprise as the contents contained within couldn't be a more randomly selected group of tales to tell. While there's definitely entertainment to be found within this issue, and three handsomely illustrated stories, one would hope that future annual tales are assembled with more reverence towards what opportunities they could offer instead of as a dumping ground for stories with no other place to go.

Venom Inc. Alpha isn't quite the breathe of fresh air to the ongoing stories of Spider-Man or Venom that one might have hoped for in this "Legacy" era. Marvel seems to be doubling down on all the storytelling cheats that have made the Venom character, for this review, less enjoyable since his departure from Spidey's orbit in the early 90s. However, Ryan Stegman's art is a 100% pure McFarlane and 90s love letter to the character and fans of the classic Venom will find much to love in his depiction.

Newcomer artist Oscar Bazaldua and colorist Justin Ponsor's artwork is dazzling enough to barely cover over a threadbare script that bounces from scene to scene with little rhyme or reason. There's promise of interesting story to tell down the line, but this series can't withstand too much more filler, especially after having event titles dominate over half of its published issues. It's time for Bendis to prove he's has a story worth telling with Miles, enough for him to fight to retain control over his character.

Dead No More: The Clone Conspiracy #2 is another exposition heavy entry in the event, that spends far too much time rehashing elements of the previous issue. Even then, the new elements introduced here move the story away from the personal, grounded drama that was advertised into threats of zombies and multiversal danger that prove far less compelling.

Amazing Spider-Man #14 reveals just how stunningly hollow "Spider-Verse" has been as an event. Peter finally steps up as a leader but its too little too late. Superhero comics are about the humanity and morality behind the costumes, "Spider-Verse" stands revealed as a fashion show.

Amazing Spider-Man #17 revives the problems that have plagued the title since its relaunch, namely uninteresting characters and storytelling. Ramos's art continues to shine but is slightly diminished by some poor coloring and design choices.

Amazing Spider-Man #1.4 raises some interesting questions about Peter's unease with faith and miracles and finally begins to establish a compelling villain. However, the story is still to jumbled, convoluted, and plot-driven to allow for the character's decisions and actions to mean anything.

Amazing Spider-Man #1.5 provides some much-needed clarity regarding Spider-Man's newest villain, but it comes far too late to save this misguided and rushed miniseries.

Amazing Spider-Man (vol. 4) #11 is a disappointing non-ending that revels in fantasy instead of revealing character and fresh ideas.

Amazing Spider-Man #1.3 shows diminishing returns for this adventure into Peter's faith. What started as a simple, if forgettable, story has become increasingly convoluted and visually confusing. "Amazing Grace" is so caught up with its ideas that it forgets to tell a compelling story to support them.

The end of this over-long, narratively unfocused series has come to an end, leaving more questions unanswered than answered. Amazing Spider-Man's relaunch has seen rocky roads, but the intentions behind this story remain the most elusive.