With its emphasis on learning and character, Assassin's Apprentice #4 transports us to a Fantasy world populated by fully-rounded characters who wield magic as readily as swords. Avoid those who would mock you or heap scorn upon comic book adaptations. The wise reader will benefit from reading this issue. I may not be an assassin, but that's my creed.

Groo: Gods Against Groo #4 is a gentle, relaxing read. It deals with matters of faith and politics in a delightfully fun way. Moreover, it shows how alike we all are, despite all our differences. Devour it with a bowl of your favorite cheese dip. Ah, cheese dip!

Final ThoughtsAfter a Filmation-style framing story, Masters of the Universe Masterverse #2 brings us a magical Ray Harryhausen sea adventure and a classic film noir detective story. Easy-to-read lettering, gorgeous art, and engaging stories make this issue a Must Read. Once again, Tim Seeley and company reveal the richness of Eternia and its characters in diverse and compelling ways.

Final ThoughtsThis issue builds on a familiar premise to enhance our understanding of Barnes vision. New ideas reveal how he takes simple plot devicesfrom movies like Invasion of the Body Snatchers and Invaders From Marsto craft a rich and sensitive story. A continuing plot thread following Trevons friends suggests the story will continue to grow and evolve. Oozing with warmth and ideas, Monarch #2 is a love letter to classic B-movie sci-fi. While proving a unique story, it remains grounded in caring for others and the realities of inner-city life. That, to me, seems a triumph indeed.

Phantom Road #1's familiar premise, identifiable characters, and fast-moving story caught me in its draft and carried me along. It evokes The Twilight Zone and The Walking Dead. Edvard Munch's painting The Scream also comes to mind. As a passenger on this strange journey, I wonder where the series will take me next.

After a head-scratcher start, SPACE JOB #2 gets this series moving. Don't expect anything in this story to make sense: half the fun is that it doesn't. Quirky, oddball humor enhances thoughtful character portrayals and an intriguing mystery. Captain Olivier may never command a starship on the Paramount+ network, but the luminous art evokes all the grandeur of TV shows like Discovery, Strange New Worlds, and Picard.

Amid action-packed scenes of triumph and betrayal, characters make complex and heartbreaking choices in Star Wars: Darth Vader #32. Heroes seem a little less heroic, and villains a little less villainous, as each strives to protect those they care about and make the galaxy a safer, more equitable, and better place. Place a box of tissues close by when you read this issue. Don't risk water damage with a comic this good!

Jody Houser steals much mystery by revealing the truth behind the dark vision Krrsish fears. Still, I like how her story suggests that anxiety transformed heroes into villains that transformed the Republic into an Empire. Rich, vibrant art conveys the battle for Krrsishs soul in Star Wars Yoda #5. Like some Jedi who came before him, let's hope the Wookies story doesnt end in tragedy.

The Spawn Universe has been spinning stories for decades. Dipping your feet into a team book like The Scorched #16 won't be easy. As a newcomer, I won't even pretend to understand half of what this issue holds. If you're fascinated by Saint John's Book Of Revelation and stories about great clashes between powerful mythological forces, you might check out this series. You don't need to understand everything about a long-form story like this to enjoy it. After all, the less you know, the more you get to discover.

Final ThoughtsX-O Manowar Unconquered #1 delves into the rich history of Aric of Dacia. Galactic events and strange, new characters invite comparisons with director John Boormans movies Zardoz and Excalibur. While much is glimpsed only through mist, fire, and stars, this first issue promises a unique and cosmic rebirth for Valiants flagship hero.