"The Shadow" Annual #1 doesn't live up to the rest of the series from Dynamite. Fortunately, it is of no consequence to the current plot, and we can look forward to Ennis and Campbell finishing their run on the series in issue #6.

Still, all that said, Im not down on the series. I have a feeling when it picks up the pace and the characters are more fully fleshed out, the story-telling will become less cluttered and more in-depth. When that happens, this will be one of the better series Image is producing.

As a villain, Anput feels all to generic. While her motivation isnt ridiculous and her identity isnt rooted in Western Islamophobia (on the contrary, Liss political commentary within this series has leaned decidedly to the left), she still is just another one-dimensional bad girl with an over-the-top, if amusing, scheme to zombify New York City. There are also one or two lines that seem a little too self-conscious, even if they do elicit a chuckle. But none of it takes that much away from the quality of the book, thanks to the superb writing and solid artwork. Im looking forward to where this series goes from here.

This was a misstep in an otherwise fine series, so theres not much to be concerned about. And while this issue has plenty of faults, it sets up future issues well. Im still hopeful for the future of this series.

Billy the Kids Old Timey Oddities #1 is a solid comic book that shows promise for a larger arc. While this issue is good and not great, it is a highly enjoyably twisted read with some talented moody artwork.

Billy The Kid comes through with an entertaining issue, filled with grotesque imagery and lighthearted fun. If youve liked what youve seen so far from the series, this issue will undoubtedly please you.

Blackacre manages to establish the setting and characters of its plot rather quickly, which is to be commended. However, its strongest or at least most intriguing attribute is its connection to contemporary politics, and that was essentially abandoned after the opening speech. I suspect that this is because it simply isn't possible to set up a good story and to engage in political commentary at the same time. Thats understandable, and hopefully upcoming issues will explore this element further. Few comics attempt to engage in political commentary, and even less do it well.

Higher Earth #5 doesnt take many risks but there are moments hinting at the serious potential for the series. Issue #5 is another solid entry in this young series and it keeps the soft sci-fi epic trotting forward.

On the whole, this is an excellent first issue with very few, if any, flaws. The only thing holding it back is that this is the first issue, and so there isnt a lot of weight to the proceedings. Still, thats an extraordinarily minor complaint. This is definitely one to pick up.