Big Man Plans comes to an epic conclusion, with the most relentlessly brutal issue of the series

Empty Zone is an undeniably gorgeous comic that plunges you into a dark and dystopian sci-fi world, where man, machine, and humanoid beast all inhabit a hellish megalopolis where survival is a daily struggle. However, for a debut issue there really is quite a lot going on and the character development seems somewhat lacking.

If you've not read Low before, this would be the perfect jumping-on point, because this series just keeps going from strength to strength.

Highly recommended for people who like their horror more cerebral and creepy.

If you feel like Garth Ennis has lost his edge and David Lapham just isn't doing the trick anymore, then Rick Spears has created the perfect comic for you.

This sophomore issue of Matt Kindt's new sci-fi series is an intense thrill-ride through super-science and high-concept action-adventure.

If you've not been reading this series, this would be a great jumping-on point, as it really tells you everything you need to know in a non-expository way.

Sadly, this debut is a bit of a tease, as there's no real hunter-killer action to be had.

Only a couple of years into their relaunch and Valiant are already rebooting/reimagining all of their titles, which probably isn't a good sign. Sadly, not even the incredibly talented Jeff Lemire can make this '90s comic-explosion refugee interesting.

Hellbreak #1 is a thrilling first issue that will leave you wanting more.

It's a suspenseful murder-mystery featuring an intriguing protagonist, enigmatic sub-plots, and a well-crafted support cast. It's something of a slow burner, but focusses more on the long game of plot rather than the quick thrills of action scenes.

Powell's gorgeous yet grotesque style is on full display here, with luscious inks, pencil shading, watercolors, and lots of wonderful experimentation. It's violent, vicious, and not for everyone, but Big Man Plans #1 is hell of a fun read.

This reboot breaths new life into a franchise that had become tired and cliched.

Fabio Moon and Gabriel Ba both work on this issue and deliver some absolutely jaw-dropping pages, so be sure to wear a bib, so your drool doesn't ruin the paper.

It's a solid debut, but perhaps a little decompressed at points.

Matthew Sturges and Dave Justus provide a plot that stays pretty true to the game, but their script also adds extra depth to the characters and some nice narration from Bigby

The engrossing tale is brilliantly told and helps to add further depth to one the series' most enigmatic and intriguing characters

Ody-C is a daunting but rewarding experience.

What makes it special, though, is a pure Bradbury twist in the tale that makes the story blur the lines between fiction and reality.

Stan Sakai has experienced some terrible adversity recently and it's testament to his skill as both a cartoonist and a storyteller that despite this he's delivered what may prove to be his magnus opus.

Alex Maleev's artwork is gorgeous here, and his gritty linework and intense blacks are a perfect fit for the world of Hellboy.

Kamikaze bat samurai, alien octopuses, giant robots, laser guns" this comic has it all!

I hope Boom! has something better planned for the property once this mini has wrapped up, because even the most diehard of fans, like myself, will find little of interest here.

I'm not sure if this event/crossover is actually going anywhere, but this series seems to be more about the journey than the destination, so just sit back and enjoy the ride.

The result being a humorous, all-ages title that is reminiscent of the old Godzilla Saturday morning cartoons.

I use no hyperbole when I say this may be the comic of the year, and have no doubts about giving it a perfect score.

With biker gangs, beat poetry, hallucinogenic imagery, copious amounts of drugs and tons of sexual references, this love letter to 1960s counterculture is about as subtle as an acid blotter of smiley faces.

It's a solid first issue, but it feels like there are just a couple too many character introductions crammed in to get a good feel for the cast.

Those familiar with the original series will find lots to love here, while those who only know Fialkov's more serious work will be baffled, but highly amused.

This is the latest of Marvel's digital "Infinite" comics to see print, and like many of its predecessors, the story does little to impress and just feels like filler designed to keep readers clicking through the flashy panel transitions.

Sadly, though, there is very little of Bunn's unique voice on display here; the plot is bland, the dialogue is insipid, and the characterization is non-existent.

All in all, this has potential, but Aaron is at risk of repeating himself.

Annihilator #1 is one of the most stunning-looking books being published right now.

Copperhead #1 is a strong debut that will have you coming back for more.

Wild's End #1 is intoxicating and enchanting with a deadly sting in the tail.

The story is enjoyable, but feels like a hodgepodge of ideas and a little "been done before."

Sundowners just feels like more of the same recycled Alan Moore and Warren Ellis ideas that are so popular these days.

A delightful debut issue that be sure to please fans of Buffy and Manga.

After the previous Hellraiser series that Boom put out, this debut feels a little disappointing. While Barker wasn't writing the previous series, he was guiding the direction, and his influence is sorely missed here.

This debut issue plays out a lot like a collection of Nemo strips, chronicling his dreams about journeying to Slumberland. It's a nice tribute to the original strips and reads really well.

There's some obvious similarities with several of the duo's past collaborations here, but if it ain't broke, don't fix it. The secret ingredient is a phenomenal writer/artist team.

Multiversity is Grant Morrison's love letter to superhero comics and DC's complex 70-year continuity.

Sword & sworcery meets sci-fi horror " sign me up!

The best take on Godzilla since "The Half Century War."

This is by far best Dredd book that IDW is publishing and good enough to be featured in the real 2000 AD.

In case Gdland hadn't tipped you off, Joe Casey is something of a Jack Kirby fan. While the former was a love letter to the King of Comics, this is full-on immersion in the crazy world of Kirby.

Terminal Hero #1 feels like so much wasted potential. Perhaps writer Peter Milligan can pull it together in the second issue, but I doubt it.

Usagi Yojimbo has been consistently great for decades, but there hasn't been a standout story for some time now. That all changes, as we jump 20 years into the future, for a story of war, sacrifice, family great honor and" aliens?

And Then Emily was Gone #1 is a creator-owned comic published by an obscure indie publisher and involves no big names. It’s probably not on your radar, but it really should be, because this is an incredibly strong debut that really left me flawed. Combining the best elements of horror and detective fiction, this sinister tale provides an intoxicating foundation for the creators to build upon in future issues. I can’t wait to find out what happens next, and I really need to know what is in that box.

Andy Lanning and Ron Marz deliver a wonderfully fun, high-octane story that brings to mind the modern classic DnA stories that inspired the new movie. It even stars a nanite swarm Iron Man and baby Rocket Raccoons!

You know you are in trouble when a new series opens with a huge info dump on the inside cover, especially when said background information is mostly unnecessary to the plot.

With an enthralling premise, an engaging cast of characters, some fabulous word building, and a thrilling plot, this debut issue certainly delivers the goods.

I stopped trying to makes sense of Prophet about a dozen issues ago and decided it was more enjoyable to view it as a strange collage of bizarre ideas. This "final" issue is no different, and plays out like a madman's Liefeld-inspired fever dream.

It's hard to believe that this comic actually exists, but I'm really glad it does. It's the best Avengers story that I've read in years!

Longtime Groo fans will find a lot to love here, while Conan fans may a little lost. Newcomers will be left scratching their heads in confusion.

This is the Norse god story that fans of Simonson's Thor have been craving.

Many would argue, myself among them, that Alan Moore's work on Supreme was the definitive story of the character and impossible to follow up. Erik Larsen's recent attempt to do so is testament to this. Then along comes Warren Ellis with a new take on the myth that proves us all wrong.

Taken as a whole, the issue makes for a very odd and rather trippy experience. Recommended for fans of the strange and those looking for something a little more off-the-wall.

The issue is fast-paced and packed to the brim with battling " mostly of the dinosaur-slaying variety. The plot, though, feels a little dense and requires close attention, like the first chapter of a long novel.

This is a fun opening issue that harkens back to the action-adventure horror movies of the 1980s.

It's a heck of a fun read, with tons of great action, but the plot is a little clichd and filled with genre tropes. Jordan acknowledges this, though, and pays honor with his homage.

With great character designs, incredible linework and gorgeous colors, this book is just a joy to behold. Don't let this one pass you by, it's the most promising series debut since Saga.

This love letter to the classic '80s movie will be sure to please fans both old and new.

An amazing first issue that promises of great things to come.

This sequel to B.P.R.D.: 1948has been an eerie thrill ride, but unfortunately this final issue comes off as slightly anticlimactic"with very little action, lots of talking heads, and an unresolved storyline that leaves things open for a sequel.

Numbercruncher #1 is a brilliant opening shot for a fantastically inventive story that is packed full of surprises and twists to keep readers on their toes. With an intelligent script and beautiful artwork, this debut issue will keep readers gripped till the very last page.

Next Testament #2 is a fantastic sophomore issue, which elaborates upon the mysteries of the first issue and provides a strong foundation upon which to build the rest of the series. It's a privilege to be treated to a new original story from the mind of Clive Barker, and Mark Miller's strong script manages to do justice to Barker's unique vision.

Risso's artwork is dark and gritty and has strong noir overtones. His love of heavy blacks is on full display and he produces some gorgeous panels working with silhouettes and negative space.

It's a dark and brooding issue that manages to explain the character's backstory without being overly expository.

Whoa! What the heck was that? Simon Spurrier unleashes a new sci-fi series that will just floor you with its inventive plot and original premise.

This is a great conclusion to a smart series filled with mystery and non-stop action that doesn't let up till the very last panel.

It's a very cerebral issue but the plot still moves forward and keeps you gripped to the very last panel. Elena Casagrande's artwork suits the story nicely. Particularly impressive is her use of force lines to illustrate the usage of powers.

Questions are raised about the deal he made with heaven and an interesting twist at the end of the issue sheds a new light on events and raises all sorts of questions. Ben Templesmith's unique style of art brings the story to light in horrific and exquisite detail.

Avengers Assemble #15, like #14 before it, has been one of the very best Age of Ultron tie-ins yet. In fact, they were both better than anything yet shown in the main title. Ewing uses the post-apocalyptic background to tell a character-driven story that pulls the reader into tale and keeps them gripped till the very last panel. It's also great to see Captain Britain again. Ewing has a brilliant grasp on these iconic Marvel UK characters, and it's great to see them back in action. This issue almost felt like a backdoor pilot for a new Captain Britain and MI:13 series. If this is indeed the case, then we say, yes please, Marvel!

The script is very dialogue and narration sparse, which doesn't really help the reader follow the plot. Tony Harris's style here is a little looser than his typical highly-detailed work, and he uses some nice art deco panel layouts to help evoke a 1920s feel to the story. Despite the teething issues this series has potential.

So far this series has been better than at least the last three years of Hellblazer.

If you've not picked up this series yet, get out and grab the back-issues now. This series will make you love Hawkeye, I guarantee it, bro!

It's a well-told tale and enjoyable, but hardly essential reading for Thanos fans. In fact, it humanizes him somewhat, as he's being pushing into things by the mystery girl (three guesses who this turns out to be), which may or may not be a good thing.

Jonathan Hickman really doesn't do things by halves. As always, this high-concept story is packed with enough ideas for half a dozen different series. It's a fascinating and gripping story, packed full of action, with twists and turns in abundance

If you've been looking for a way to get into Dredd, then this story is a perfect jumping-on point. As a lifelong 2000 AD reader, this reviewer can assure you that this is very much the real deal.

It's not a bad story, but it isn't one we haven't heard before in dozens of indie superhero titles. The series just seems to have lost its spark. Ming Doyle's clean linework still looks lovely though, and with Jordie Bellaire's colors it almost has a Jamie McKelvie / Mike Norton look to it.

With the pedigree involved, Young Avengers was always going to be a good book, but the creative team has really gone above and beyond the call of duty, to create something truly stunning"a gripping comic filled with fascinating characters and enticing mysteries. The team wowed audiences with the series debut, and this second issue really cements the series' reputation as one of the best new superhero comics of 2013.

Cullen Bunn provides a hilarious script and Matteo Lolli does a great job bringing all of these classic characters to life. Having Deadpool hallucinate the Marvel characters inspired by the classic ones as he kills them is an inspired touch. Dumb, fun, and bloody " what more could you ask for in a Deadpool comic?

As befitting a second issue, there's a lot of plot development and character work going on here, but this is balanced out with plenty of action scenes, which keep the pace fast and exciting. Fun, fresh, and original " don't miss out!

These aren't essential chapters in the saga of Baltimore, but they are definitely worth checking out, and subtly add to the rich tapestry of the ongoing tale.

Seifert obviously has a love for these characters and that comes through in the quality of his writing.

With Christopher Mitten being the current artist on both regular series, his artwork is obviously a perfect fit for this crossover, bringing the story to life with an intoxicating mix of horror and noir styles.

The enhancement/cheating element of the story really resonates with readers in the light of recent doping allegations, and makes the story that much more compelling. Ming Doyle's artwork is fantastically detailed and beautifully rendered, brilliantly complementing the "real word" feel of the story.

The only reason this gets two points is because of Larroca's vastly improved art style that is leaps and bounds better than his work on Iron Man.

It's a brooding and moody issue, featuring some fantastic scenes, foremost of which is Hellboy receiving a vision of his own birth and the moment he was bonded to the Right Hand of Doom. Mignola's artwork brings the story to life in stunning detail, with his minimalist linework and his bold, heavy blacks. Every page is a joy to behold.

Salvador Larroca's artwork is the best it's looked in a long time, with him returning to a more traditional cartooning style rather than the unsettling photo-tracing he had been employing on Invincible Iron Man.

Negan takes pity on his deadly stowaway, taking him in and showing him around the fortified factory the "saviors" use as a base. It's a smart way to show readers how Negan runs his operation, and why his soldiers follow him without question.

Hellboy in Hell #1 is indescribably good. No amount of hyperbole can do the book justice. Mike Mignola is back, and better than ever.

The Boys #72 delivers the perfect ending to one of the most epic superhero stories of the last decade. I wouldn't hesitate to rank this series equal to Preacher in a list of Ennis' best works.

Matt Fraction takes over the reins of Marvel's First Family, delivering more of the tried and tested blend of super-science, action, adventure and excitement that readers have come to love. This first issue doesn't change much from Hickman's monumental run on the title, with Fraction maintaining the great family dynamic and characterization that made that run so special.

This time of year is a very busy period for horror comics, with the shelves overflowing with miniseries and one-shots looking to take advantage of the Halloween rush. Lot 13 #1 stands out from the pack though, more intent on delivering a solid foundation on which to build future issues than providing cheap and tawdry scares for thrillseekers. This series has some definite potential, and I look forward to seeing where Nile and Fabry take us next.

The script is incredibly text heavy and dominated by the antagonist's non-stop annoying chatter. The plot is also obvious and predictable. Riley Rossmo's artwork is the comic's saving grace"providing nice dark and moody visuals that keep the reader interested through the tedious story.

The story is trippy and bizarre, and jam packed full of fascinating concepts and ideas. It's a real wild ride that is sure to make your head spin. Graham's artwork has a wonderfully cartoony look to it that brings to mind the work of Jamie Hewlett, and he packs every page with an amazing amount of detail and little easter eggs. This is an unmissable comic that you need in your collection.

The plot is gripping and exciting"involving a dead councilman, a Voodoo queen, and zombies. There are lots of twists and turns that keep the story interesting, and Williams leaves readers with a cliffhanger ending that will leave them begging for more. Trevor Hairsine's artwork brings this southern fried story to life in fantastic fashion, giving it a look much more like something you would find in a Vertigo comic than a DCU title.

"Transfusion #1 is a great debut issue for an intriguing miniseries filled with the promise of horrific things to come. With Halloween just around the corner, this might be just the book you are looking for.

This is everything you could want in a Batman comic and more, the best issue of Detective Comics in years.

Fatima: The Blood Spinners #4 is a fitting conclusion to one of the most bizarre stories that Gilbert Hernandez has ever written. The series showcases the true depth of Hernandez's imagination, and his imagination is very strange place indeed.

As finales go, this one is decent enough, and wraps up all of the series' loose ends, but it seems a little rushed and compressed.

There are a few familiar faces, which are there to make fans go, "OMG! It's Amanda Waller!" But these are cheap thrills at best, and don't speak to the quality of the writing.

Scalped #60 brings Aaron and Guerra's magnum opus to an fitting and bloody conclusion, which provides some satisfying story resolutions, but ultimately leaves things on the reservation pretty much the same as they were in the first issue. Life marches on, and cares little for the plight of our characters...

This is a fast-paced thriller that doesn't attempt to be anything more, and is all the better for it.

This series started out so well, with an interesting premise and some great artwork. Sadly though, three issues in, the series hasn't really had any memorable moments, as the plot just trundles along with no clear focus.

This series, which started with a definite bang, has sadly ended with something of a whimper. By this point in the story any semblance of plot has gone out of the window, to be replaced with and sad and desperate attempts at weirdness and controversy.

The visuals are definitely the strongest point of the comic, with some wonderful cartooning and beautiful brushwork. The only thing really holding the story back is that it kind of fails to adequately define its central premise and grab the reader's attention.

Axel Medellin provides creepy visuals to accompany the words, utilizing a nice cartooning style that has a fun quality to it that compliments the slightly tongue-in-cheek feel of the story.

The Creep #0 is a fantastic prelude to what I am sure will be a brilliant series.

This is probably one of the best Deadpool stories that I've read in a long time.

Hypernaturals feels a bit like a Legion of Superheroes story that DnA never got to tell, which is really DC's loss.

I wish all comics were as fun as Axe Cop.

It's another B.P.R.D. mini that focuses on the agency's field agents, and what makes this one work so well is the wonderful character that Stewart and Mignola have created in Ashley Strode; she is fantastically characterized, and beautifully rendered.

The Secret History of D.B. Cooper #5 is a perfect conclusion to a fantastic series that has had very few low points. This fascinating and highly original series should be on every comic fan's pull-list.

Reset #4 is a strong character-driven story that makes a fine addition to Bagge's impressive catalogue.

X-O Manowar #3 is a fun and fresh reimagining of the original, which is sure to please fans new and old alike.

If I had kids Aesop's Ark would be the comic that I would give them, it feels like a classic children's fairy tale.

Edison Rex is all-ages superhero comics done the way they are meant to be: fun and exciting.

A book like Justice League should be the linchpin of the entire DC Universe, instead the book is one of the most dull and uninspired books that DC is currently publishing. The title started out strong, but plot and characterization have fallen by the wayside, and the book now seems to be a series of action scenes held together by a very thin thread of narrative.

This comic was just a lot of fun, we need more all-ages books like this.

This comic is crazy " it's like Love & Rockets & Zombies.

I don't have the usually highest regard for comics based on licenses, but Mars Attacks #1 really took me by surprise with its fresh, fun, and exciting story.

Creator Owned Heroes #1 is a stunning debut, packed with thrilling stories, gorgeous artwork, and interesting text pieces. Not only that, but it only costs $3.99, which is really quite the bargain.

Monocyte #4 is a gripping and enthralling conclusion to an amazing and uncompromisingly smart story that really pushes the boundaries of what is possible with the comic book medium.

Mind MGMT #1 is a must-read comic, but the only thing that holds it back from getting a perfect score is that the concept is remarkably similar to that Brian Churilla's new series, The Secret History of D.B. Cooper " a coincidence, I'm sure.

Resident Alien #1 is a refreshingly original take on the classic whodunit murder mystery formula, and feels a bit like a fun mash-up between Diagnosis Murder and The X-Files

Avengers vs. X-Men #4 is fun, thrilling, exciting, and most importantly never takes itself too seriously.

Dancer #1 is a thrilling series debut that pleases on all fronts, and is sure to take readers by surprise.

Trio #1 is a fun first issue, but seems to value style over substance to some degree. Hopefully the second issue will improve upon the balance.

If you want a comic featuring a sexy girl kicking butts, then look no further, as this even comes with pin-ups and variant covers of her in her underwear. If you are looking for a story with a plot and direction, though, look elsewhere.

Justice League International #9 is to be avoided, especially if you don't want to be forced to pick up another series to read the story's conclusion.

The New Deadwardians #2 is an absorbing issue that grabs readers with its enticing mystery and keep them gripped to the very last page. If only all zombie and vampire comics were this good!

Ragemoor #2 is another great chapter, filled to the brim with chilling visuals and thrilling suspense.

The Shadow #1 is a strong debut that will be sure to please fans of this classic pulp character.

Reset #1 is a fantastic debut issue with a highly original and intriguing premise. Peter Bagge has a great understanding of human psychology, and uses the issue as an opportunity to examine some interesting aspects of society. The series has the potential for some very entertaining sub-stories, as Guy uses the opportunity to steer his life in the direction he's always wanted it to go.

Brilliant #3 is a rather average and forgettable comic that never manages to live up to its name.

While I'm hesitant about how this concept will hold up as an ongoing series, Fanboys vs. Zombies #1 is a strong debut issue, and is definitely worth checking out, especially as it only costs $1.

B.P.R.D. Hell on Earth: The Pickens County Horror #1 has the potential to be an interesting tale, but falls short in a few key areas. Hopefully the plot comes together in the next issue.

Monocyte #3 is an uncompromisingly smart story that both embraces and challenges what is possible with the comic book medium.

The Strange Talent of Luther Strode #6 is an impressive finale to a great character-driven superhero series.

Avengers Assemble #1 reads like a very average superhero comic, which for a line-fronting book with an A-list creative team, is simply not good enough.""

Crossed: Badlands #1 is a brilliant return to form for one of the best horror comics on the shelves.""

The Secret History of D.B.Cooper #1 is stunning debut that takes an enigmatic historical event, and builds a thrilling adventure around it that will surprise readers at every turn. It's Brian Churilla's best work to date, and I can't wait to see where he takes the story next.

Age of Apocalypse #1 is an intriguing debut, but it's going to take a few more issues to tell whether this has any long-term potential.

Fairest #1 is not a brilliant start for this new series, and hopefully future issues will bring us something more unique.

The Manhattan Projects #1 is a thrilling series debut, packed with alternate history, conspiracy theories, brutal slaughter, ninja robots, and super science. You're going to want to jump on this one early, because pretty soon everyone will be talking about it.

Hellraiser #11 is another fantastic issue that is sure to delight horror fans.

Orc Stain #7 is like no comic you've ever read, you need to add this series to your pull-list, now.

The Cape #4 provides readers with a fitting, and highly satisfying, conclusion to the story begun in Joe Hill's original short. Fans of the story will not be disappointed.

Road Rage #1 is a fun read with some nice artwork, but I just found I couldn't get invested in the characters' fate.

Incredible Hulk #5 is a quick fun read, but is a bit of a letdown on the art front.""

Ninjettes #1 is a hilariously fun read, and highly recommended for fans of ultra-violence.""

I had high hopes for Thief of Thieves #1, but this debut issue feels like a bit of a false start. It's not a bad comic, but it definitely failed to wow. I'm hoping the Nick Spencer can grab me with the second issue.

Infestation 2 #1 isn't a bad book, but it really should have been labeled as Infestation 2: CVO #1, because that's what it really is, and as such isn't necessary reading to understand the other titles in the crossover.

Transformers: Robots in Disguise #1 is a highly accessible debut with a gripping plot and brilliant artwork. I'll definitely be back for more.

With Chew #23 John Layman and Rob Guillory really knock it out of the park.

Memorial #2 is a fantastic second chapter in what looks set to be a contemporary classic in the world of urban fantasy.

Sweet Tooth #40 is a perfect and befitting conclusion to a simply extraordinary modern fable about the follies of mankind and the consequences of our disharmony with nature. Jeff Lemire has once again proven himself a master storyteller and one of the best comic writers of our generation. Comics just don't get better than this.

Lobster Johnson: The Burning Hand #1 is a great fun read and is highly recommended for fans of nostalgic pulp magazine stories.

PunisherMax #21 gives readers the perfect ending to the epic Kingpin storyline. It's some of Jason Aaron & Steve Dillon's finest work.

Avengers X-Sanction #2 is a fun read, featuring some exciting superhero battles. It's a beautifully illustrated issue, but there is nothing here that really furthers the plot. I have a strong feeling this series might read a lot better as a trade collection.

The Boys #62 is an explosive and thrilling issue that really sets the scene for the story's highly anticipated climax.

X-Club #2 is a great second issue of one of the most fun series in the X-Men "Regenesis" line.

Ultimate Comics: The Ultimates #5 is a great issue, which while slower in pace than the opening arc, is highlighted by some interesting politics and great dialog, and really cements the book's place as the center of the relaunched Ultimate Universe. This is the best The Ultimates has been since Mark Millar left the series.

I wasn't actually planning to pick up The Ray #1, and grabbed it on impulse when I hit the comic store. I'm incredibly glad I did, because this is a pitch-perfect debut issue that outshines many of the titles that DC introduced with the "New 52." This is only a four-issue mini-series, but I hope we get to see lots more of this new character.

If you've been hesitant about continuing to pick up Jennifer Blood after Garth Ennis left the title, then set your worries aside, because Al Ewing is a brilliant replacement, and continues to provide more of the same bloody violence and dark humor that readers have come to love.

Flash Gordon: Zeitgeist #1 is a brilliant reimagining of the classic character, which revitalizes the property while staying true to its pulp roots.