June's quest brings her back to the start, and then she decides to change the rules.

Monsters Are My Business #1 starts out big and rolls right on through the end, gathering up speed as it goes. Already things do not look good, and it looks like they will get worse, but it also looks like it will be a good time finding out what happens next.

Jolie wants to take out the man she hates. Slaughter wants to beat Butcher at its own game. Will either of them get what they want?

In the Last Mermaid #2, we see that the mermaid is a resourceful character. As we learn more of the dangers of this world, we wonder what her mission is and why she is so driven to pursue it.

In The Sacrificers #7, the world is starting to implode, and it may be up to the young people to get it back on track, if that is even possible.

Grim #16 opens a new arc with all the characters together again, but now with a purpose. Jess has made up her mind who she is and what she is going to do. Now let's see if she can pull it off.

As Edenfrost #4 closes, Alex and Yuli have made it through the immediate danger of the army, but they still have no family and nowhere safe to go. And the family protector they have is still an unknown quantity.

To survive in the wild is an adjustment for three indoor cats, but this is only the beginning of their tale.

A trio of emotional support animals must brave an alien planet to find their humans.

While it has its rough moments, The Bloody Dozen #4 finally maneuvers the characters to an unexpected point of high desperation. Their futures are going to hinge on the decisions each of them now must make.

Strikman is closer to a solution, but time is of the essence!

Adventureman: Ghost Lights #2 is a big story that takes some attention to follow, but at its heart are characters who truly love each other and are willing to take on anything to help a sister out.

Jace has drawn the unwanted attention of the Butcher Shopand the House of Slaughter!

Abbott 1979 #5 is the finale of this story arc, and it is a grand one. The story covered a lot of ground but did so in a way that feels satisfying and connected, deftly telling a story where the angst of the time resonates strongly with today's world.

Life is full of uncertainties, and this sure is the case in Kaya #16. The situation can change at a moment's notice and everyone from Jin to the Princess is primed to take action without a thought about the potential consequences.

Symonds is determined to send somewhat into the Fracture while Jerome is determined that this will not be Hannah.

Dogged, if dull, detective work gets Linnea and Parker much closer to the cult than they had anticipated.

The art of The Last Mermaid #1 is beautiful and the setting imaginative. For a book of few words, we understand the initial stakes even if we don't know exactly what the situation is and how a mermaid is here in this place.

Edenfrost #3 boils over with high tensions and treachery. That the protagonists are kids growing up early only heightens the sense of drama.

The Ribbon Queen #8 is a heck of a conclusion that is thought-provoking right up to the end. It is not often easy to make the world a better place, and the consequences can be unexpectedly dire.

It is difficult to understand what is going on, but I think Lotus Land #4 captures the essence of a detective investigation, especially when it seems like someone with resources is covering things up as fast as Strikman can find them.

When Oshawa, Ontario ceases to exist, the lives of the survivors will change forever.

The Bloody Dozen #3 takes us to where the story gets interesting where things are not entirely as expected. The Vampires are not impetuous monsters. They are formidable creatures who have the patience to bide their time.

Abbott reconnects with her purpose in life just in time to face the Umbra again!

Life has become a series of tricky challenges and decisions for Kaya and Jin.

Is Hannah some sort of key to unlocking the Fracture?

Linnea and Parker go to the island, an island that is not supposed to have anything of interest on it at all.

Savage Dragon has joined the fight, but can Seesaw get him to understand both sides of the conflict?

To find the girl he is looking for Strikman must reconnect with his own past.

A team of talented but dysfunctional astronauts set out for a prison break in space!

Edenfrost #2 is full of suspense. Death could be around the corner at any moment, and allies may be tenuous at best. To complicate the situation with a golem that may not be controllable makes this a fascinating read.

Johnny Caspar is back, at least as a ghost, and has huge plans for this opportunity.

Sagittarius is another ally for the Starsigns, but Leo and Libra remain a threat.

Pigeon saves Soluna's life, only to discover she is one of gods.

Abbott 1979 #3 is a solid read and a dramatic chance for Elena to start taking control again. She is the Lightbringer, but will she be powerful enough to take on the Umbra entirely?

Linnea Kent vows to stay away from murders when she opens her detective agency in Jamesport.

The Ribbon Queen #6 uses horror as a vehicle to explore police corruption, making it a powerful read which can feel uncomfortable. There is a lot of depth here which makes it continue to be a fascinating read.

Maxine agrees to train with a Black Mask from the Butcher Shop and learns more than she was expecting.

The struggle for Armageddon continues to pull back and forth with no clear lead.

Strikman's past haunts his present as the leads to his current investigation keep disappearing.

The Shrouded College sets up a prison break for prisoners too dangerous to leave alive, but too valuable to kill.

Journey into Hannah's past, where we discover that her life was full of mystery even when she was only seven.

Bait has his strengths, but he also has vulnerabilities.

It has long been said that power tends to corrupt and absolute power corrupts absolutely. In The Sacrificers #5, it is even worse. A corrupt tyrant is still mortal and is vulnerable to the passage of time. In this world, absolute power creates corrupt immortals.

After losing their parents in a pogrom, Alex and Yuli are on their own amidst winter and warfare.

I love a story that turns a familiar setting on its head, and Mortal Terror #1 delivers on the mythology of Dracula. That the main characters are familiar gives us a touchstone that draws us into the story, and the sense of intrigue gives it some good dramatic tension.

A man's investigation into his wife's possible infidelity leads him deep into the unexpected.

Hannah and Dr. Hannah face off against their own worst enemy another Hannah!

Groundbreaking technology may come with earth-shattering consequences.

Killadelphia #31 sets us on a new journey of drama and discovery, conflict and adventure. Armageddon and the fate of the Earth may be at stake, but the outcome rests on only a few, including mortal humans.

While Rana and her friends barely have time to catch their breaths, Mister Duke moves forward with his grand plan!

Bain does not know how to accomplish his mission and save the people he wants to save, and time is running out!

Abbott 1979 #2 not only shows us Elena at her lowest point, but finally, we get a sense of what she is up against. The Umbra symbolizes a time of difficult change in our country, taking that negative energy and creating a personification for it.

Finally, we see the connection at the heart of The Sacrificers #4, what exactly is the sacrifice, and who reaps the actual benefits. While everyone repeats that this is all for the best for everyone, we cannot help but wonder who really gets the benefit and whether the cost is, in fact, too high.

The Ribbon Queen #4 deftly takes a horrible situation and makes it infinitely worse for everyone involved. Amy Sun has made difficult decisions in her life and not always good ones. Now it seems as though she is rapidly running out of good options.

Klik Klik Boom #5 is an extraordinarily satisfying conclusion to an unusual but effective tale of revenge. The icing on the cake is the epilogue that does not have many words, but that tells us everything we need to know. It was a heck of a ride, and well worth it.

Subgenre #1 opens strong, drawing us right into a murder mystery that almost looks like a setup to catch the detective himself. But when he awakens as a different self in an entirely different world, everything is thrown off kilter and suddenly the standard noir tropes no longer apply!

Grim #14 is a rich blend of story and allegory. It feels mythic and grand while still grounding the story in each character's personal experiences and fears.

The hastily formed team barely has time to start forming a plan before Tatiana and Mister Duke arrive!

Haunt You to the End #5 takes the dystopian ghost-hunter set-up and turns it into something desperate, something that feels much bigger than any of the characters who are drawn into the story. This makes for a read that is both full of tension and thoughtful.

For the opening of the story, Abbott 1979 #1 is gripping and compelling. As soon as we see Elena Abbott, we want to know more about her.

The Sacrificers #3 deftly puts together a tale that is mythic in scope and yet viscerally down-to-earth at the same time. And at the center of it all lies the question of whether the end truly justifies the means.

Cat Fight #4 is a globe-trotting game of cat and mouse with a huge puzzle at its core. Felix is entertaining, as lucky as he is cynical and just clever enough to figure out what is going on.

Klik Klik Boom #4 continues to impress with terrific storytelling and suspenseful art. The plot is compelling, and Sprout's visual communication only makes it all the more intriguing.

Marcel has been haunted by his past and now he must revisit it face to face!

As Erica works to finish setting and baiting the trap, what could go wrong?

Children, most with no names that we know, travel in fear knowing that they have been harvested for sacrifice.

Sprout continues to be one step ahead of her pursuers.

Detective Sun finds the scene of an unthinkable death and the body in the murder she was investigating goes missing.

Serra's past reveals Soren's past and starts to explain the current fight with Doxon!

Erica and Cecilia have never seen eye to eye, yet now they find some common ground.

Mister Duke's grandiose plans for the Starsigns may be slipping through his fingers.

House of Slaughter #16 launches us into a new monster hunt and prepares to give us a closer look into the operations of the White Masks. How do these pack hunters work together and maintain their ferocity without turning on themselves?

Matt thinks he saw a ghost in the old manor, but what happened to the crew at the refinery?

Kaya does not know where her allies currently are, but can she trust Runt to get her closer to her brother?

Deep Space Nine: The Dog of War #5 finishes up the story arc quite neatly. Not only does the dog survive, but he also brings out a fun side to so many of the characters which makes it a delight to read.

Years have passed, and now it is time for the harvest the sacrifice of a child.

Jess does not want to give in to Adira but must give herself up to her fate.

Alice is back, but not entirely. As her presence in Wonderland grows, her hold on reality diminishes.

A woman who was rescued from a serial killer is now dead, and the man with the credit for saving her may be the prime suspect.

Sprout is not just breezing through the city taking photos; she is busy setting up a complicated ambush for a murderer.

Vin and Reynolds finally find the lair of the biggest spider of them all.

Dogs prowl at night trying to protect the people of New Verona.

Erica sets the trap to draw in the monster and perhaps the hunter as well.

Callum Shah's expedition seems to be well-planned, but then unexpected things start happening.

It is a race against time to see who can find Alejandro first!

Felix suddenly finds himself to be the target of all his grandmother's old friends.

Hannah turns her life around for the chance to search for her missing father.

Imprisoned again, Jess feels the futility of her life more than ever.

It is a race against time as Maia tries to rescue Sebastian and stop the hooded man from hiring the Devil himself!

Kaya has survived but is separated from her friends and can no longer follow Jin's trail!

Vin considers giving up the spider hunting life, but the spider hunting life will not let him go.

Monarch #5 puts young people who have barely figured out where they are in life into the midst of a conflict for the survival of life on Earth. They are courageous, vulnerable, and interesting, and it looks like the future could be in good hands.

Queen of Swords #1 is an energetic story right out of the gate, full of interesting characters and their various conflicts. This is a great jumping on point, and it is a lot of fun to see a handful of women facing a big quest. Don't be intimidated by the price this is a longer-than-average book with a story to match.

It is up to Maia to rescue Sebastian while the hooded man finally mints a sufficiency of Qurrakh.

Perhaps the answer is not keeping the dark out, but letting it in to where it can be contained.

Rana hardly has time to process that she has powers before she starts meeting others who seem to know her already.

Felix Lamarr is in debt to a crime family but intends to use his skills as a master thief to buy himself some time.

Vin falls deeper into Reynolds world of hunting giant spiders in the city.

Kaya is on Jin's trail but is dangerously far behind him!

Bloodline: Daughter of Blade #4 contains a lot of emotional turmoil. I like seeing Blade's relationship with his daughter start to grow even as the danger grows around them.

House of Slaughter #15 is an issue that makes your heart sink. This is a horror story, and only some of the monsters are creatures. Human monsters are trickier and at least as dangerous as the other kind.

Nocterra #14 is an emotional roller coaster. While finding light in the darkness sounds like a metaphor we can all understand, apparently you cannot get more light without more darkness and the darkness is already overwhelming. Is the destruction of everything inevitable?

Travon decides what matters to him and now his life is in danger!

As the opening of a story about a group of people gaining mystical powers, Starsigns #1 is strong and interesting. Rana is a particularly likable young woman and I think her story will be entertaining.

Killadelphia #30 is a fantastic ending to the arc. The previous issues set up the twist brilliantly, leaving us looking over the unexpected precipice of what happens next, because there is going to be a next and it looks marvelous. I can't wait.

Kaya #7 is tense and exciting. Not only is this shaping up to be a more dangerous adventure, but all the main characters have had experiences that leave them with doubts. The world is also more dystopian than we first suspected, and I like seeing more of the Atrian Empire and that the powerful enemy is made up of robots.

Grim #10 brings Jess to her latest low, but from there she starts to see a way to rise and to find the new meaning to her life. She still has no idea of just how many pending complications are waiting in the weeds for her next action.

Sen goes from scavenger to leader of a desperate journey to Earth!

Vin thought his life could not get much worse until he found out about the spiders.

In Nocterra #13, the battle between darkness and light is not just a metaphor; it is the literal form of the struggle for survival. Audacious plans lead to more and more risky choices on the knife edge of fate.

Monarch #3 is bold and innovative. As with many alien invasion stories, their behaviors share disturbing echoes with our own. Yet despite this, one small alien has made a connection with humans and knows there is a side to them that makes their conquest more complicated.

Can the human, Helpless, take on General Cov'n who has taken over the enhanced body of the ape, Thumper?

Where Monsters Lie #3 is over the top in the finest tradition of slasher movies. It is not for everyone, but if that is your jam, the meta take on the genre definitely has its moments.

We learn the origin of the hooded man and just what his plans he has for the Qurrakhs.

John Adams sees the writing on the wall on the streets of Philadelphia in the dark.

Erica has a plan, but how much more dangerous is Cutter now that she is furious?

Grim #9 moves the story to Hell and finds another way to up the stakes for the Reapers. Jessica may now have some help, but her friends are also vulnerable. Her task is not going to be easy.

Sundog Convoy is back, and their focus is set on Eos and bringing back the light.

Monarch #2 is not your standard alien invasion tale. I like the way it uses that as a way to look at Earth from a distance. It is sometimes hard to see things clearly when they are too close. But is one good person enough to change the world?

All Against All #4 is a tangled web of survival and empathy. For better or for worse, B'tay has made a connection to Helpless, perhaps at the cost of his own people. But when it comes to life, which is the right choice to make?

Sunny is drawn further into the Butcher Shop and Jace feels he must follow.

Whitney thought Bri was a monster, but could they be vampire hunters together?

The Snowcat Prince is a wonderful story with brilliant art. It is a hero's journey, but nestled within is the not only the concept of doing right, but learning to be open-minded. It is hard for Syv to learn that his beloved story may not be entirely true, but that does not stop him from trying to do what is right, not just for the snowcats, but for the sandfoxes and everyone else.

For an adaptation of a novel, Assassin's Apprentice is ambitious and lives up to its promise. It brings a rich world into vivid life.

Old friends of Owen's try to help him, both in Hell and back in the normal world.

The police descend on Wilmhurst, but the serial killers are not fazed in the least.

Sen figures out the dream world as Zakk learns more about Primoris and his plans.

Art Brut #3 not only connects the plot, but it describes a connection many artists have with their art. The pursuit of perfection is not only impossible, it could be dangerous to the artist. But what if this also becomes dangerous to their art?

Kaya and Jin reach Goro Bay and get enough money to pay for the next leg of their journey!

Jace may have set up his own operation, but the Butcher Shop is still in operation.

Travon goes from being hunted by a gang to hiding from aliens.

The human known as "Helpless may not be as helpless as the Operators believe.

Where Monsters Lie #1 may not be for everyone, but if you are a fan of slashers and you want a glimpse of what their lives are like when they are not actively killing a bunch of curious teens, this is probably worth a read. It is entertaining, and it is not quite like anything I have read before.

Mariko tries to get to the root of the conflict between Yamato and Bake-Yoroi.

Bloodline: Daughter of Blade #1 introduces a charming heroine who is full of potential. She is going to need all the support she has as the action ramps up!

Hell to Pay #3 is not just telling Maia and Sebastian's story. It is establishing the world of the Shrouded College with plans to tell more stories in the setting. Even though there is a lot of world-building, the story continues to move along at a cracking pace.

As improbable as it may be, I like the way the dreams are used to connect Sen and Joi to give impetus to the plot. We can look at Modia through the lens of a past Earth, and Earth through the lens of Modia and ponder the similarities.

Every large battle is made up of the struggles of individuals.

There is no doubt that Art Brut #2 continues to be an unusual story, but it fascinates. We do not yet see all the connections clearly, but as with a puzzle, the more pieces we can work with, the more we can figure out.

Jace Boucher is busy protecting orphans he has rescued, but one of them may be more work than he expected.

All Against All #2 is setting up to be the conflict between a lone human against the advanced Operators. But beyond that it takes advantage of the setting to explore humanity from a different perspective as well as pondering the value of scientific research when it is reduced to warfare. This is a terrific story on multiple levels.

Mindset #6 is a terrific science fiction tale, creepier because it hits so close to home. The plotting is deviously careful and while it has a solid ending, there is just enough disquiet that it never completely loses its disquieting tone. I think this will be a story worth a couple re-reads.

Riqui plans to talk to the Sheriff, but Cutter has her own plans in action.

A world without death is not a world without pain.

Kaya #4 shows us changes in several characters and reminds us that Jin is central to this story. As we move forward, the plot is deftly balanced by expanding on the history just enough that we learn what we need. This is a solid and thoughtful read.

Mosely was there as the machines rose to power and now he is looking to bring them down!

The Book of Slaughter is a gorgeous way to connect the stories so far and stories yet to come. It may not be a starting point, but for someone actively reading the series, it is a worthy item to add to your bookshelf.

Toussaint is gaining the upper hand, but does this play into Corson's plan?

What happened to their mother changes the three sisters' lives forever.

After finding the gold disc, Sen starts having weirdly coherent dreams.

Erica is running low on options even as the Duplicitype grows more powerful.

While sometimes the story beats of Hell to Pay #2 feel clunky, it does have plenty of action and the concept is imaginative.

Art Brut #1 is entertaining and it kicks off a weird thriller of a mystery. I enjoy the premise and I like that this book leaves me not sure where it is headed next, which means I am looking forward to finding out.

Jess knows who she is and knows that Adira is her aunt, but she does not realize she has landed in the middle of a huge conflict.

Wynd: The Throne in the Sky #5 has a huge cliffhanger ending, but it does seem that the series will be continued. For a while, it seemed like too many characters to keep track of, but there is enough room in these double-sized issues to develop them and their connections. I also love the underlying message of inclusivity and liking people for who they are as people.

Parasitic creatures caught up in war find an unexpected bounty of bodily material in the ruins of Earth.

End After End #4 is a melancholy chapter in a fluid story that started out with more classic heroics but now reapproaches a main character who learned long ago that real life does not come with literary heroes. If there is no grand meaning to life, what meaning is there?

Heart Eyes #4 is building to a finish even as the narrative shows us more puzzle pieces that must somehow fit together. While nothing seems to make sense at first, it feels like the key is just around the corner.

Kaya #3 has ramped up the plot quickly. We thought we knew where this was headed, but like many journeys, the path is full of obstacles and digressions. The main characters are rich with hopes and flaws making the read enjoyable on multiple levels.

One tiny, little mistake lets loose a curse that threatens to take over the Orcs!

Ben Sharp cannot make things right until he figures out who is behind the mind control.

Will conflict between the daughters distract them from focusing on the truth?

Do the history and mythology of the world have a part to play in its future?

Something is Killing the Children #26 shows us that in this world, there are consequences and complications, and they can be dire. The Order of St. George wants to keep its secrets at any cost.

A small piece of space debris arrives at a world in decline.

Kaya #2 takes us from a straightforward quest into a situation that examines people's prejudices along with whether their outlook is more toward the future or the past. This gives this fantasy story a timely feel that lends the plot additional richness.

The Guardians are back and are as goofy and hard-working as ever.

Once Hell to Pay #1 gets going, there is plenty of action and a solid setup to lead us further into the story. What is even more interesting is that there are plans for Shrouded College to be the center of different stories. In that case, I can forgive some of the extra time spent in world-building because there is an entire world to be built upon.

Heart Eyes #3 is strange and disquieting. We know Lupe has a connection to the monsters, and we know at least one other person in the story knows. But just what it remains a mystery.

End After End #3 is an interesting take on a sort of afterlife that is as nebulous and confusing as life itself. As Walt settles in, will he find that he has some control over his destiny here, or is he only part of someone else's adventure?

I do like that Sins of the Black Flamingo ties up all the loose ends we have been given and winds the plot around multiple bad guys. As those bad guys are also all bigots, their comeuppance is particularly satisfying. While the story is a thriller at its heart, it also touches on some bigger concepts which makes it a more interesting read.

Barbaric: Axe to Grind #3 is the end of the story arc, but one that sets up for the next arc. It imparts a lot of history but sets up a deeper conflict. We still do not know much more about Axe beyond his love of blood, but now we can start to wonder about him.

House of Slaughter #10 continues to be more abstract than a simple monster hunt. Again, this issue benefits from a couple reads. I like the subtleties of the story myself because, in a mirror of life, the drama does not always come from the events that occur. It may come from the choices that people make and how they make them.

Ben's plan works. Everything is perfect. So why does he feel so uncomfortable at times?

Tensions run high as the girls wonder whether the past will stay hidden.

Wynd: The Throne in the Sky #3 deftly entwines an adventure story with a coming-of-age story in a way that is relatable, positive, and exciting. It continues to be full of twists and surprises and I cannot wait to see what happens next.

Chilling Adventures of Salem is a terrific one-shot, and it is especially fitting that it is coming out during the Halloween season. If you love the Archie Horror line-up, it is a solid addition to the collection featuring a favorite character.

Once and Future #30 delivers boldly on its promise. This was a grand undertaking that pays off hugely. I love the way it uses familiar elements of classic stories, yet plays with their flexibility to deliver retellings that evolve as things change over time. It is a delightful read that one can return to and enjoy again and again.

If you have been reading the series, do not miss Basilisk #12. It is thoughtful and gripping and finishes things up with great style and a powerful sense of closure.

Lupe has more of a connection to the monsters than anyone else realizes.

Grim #5 connects that abstraction of understanding a personified force such as Death and adding a human facet to his existence and the present conflict. Even so, there is still further mystery to uncover, and this is a glorious read.

House of Slaughter #5 is not just a tale about Edwin's place in the Order. It has turned into a tale of monstrous intrigue. Edwin has a different kind of deal with Hermes that gives us an entirely new and terrifying take on monsters.

Rivers of London: Deadly Ever After #4 is a dramatic end to a charming story that fits well into the broader world of the Rivers of London series. It is a delightful way to spend time with minor characters and still enjoy a world where magic has a significant presence.

The Deadliest Bouquet #2 is ambitious in that the plot appears to span decades and the main characters continue to be quiet about their family secrets. Consequently, this limits the ways we as readers can be filled in. Some moments feel contrived, but overall, it is an interesting mystery to follow.

Orcs! The Curse #3 has settled into an interesting tale. I enjoy seeing how the problems in the present tie in with the stories from the past, and I appreciate the way Orcs and Elves have their own cultures but are also rich in personality quirks which brings a lot of humor into the book.

Bastian and Yorik's plans change once they realize Yadriel has been imprisoned, and Wynd worries about being seen as the legendary savior of the world.

As Vanessa recovers her memories of the Five, Regan remembers more how she wants to leave her past behind.

The Ward #4 is a solid ending to the story. I like how it ended up with a pandemic parallel because I think that gives it more impact. My main criticism is that while the main plot is straightforward, the side plots have a lot of detail that the series does not have time to explore. Much like the chaos of the ER, we are plunged into accepting whatever is thrown at us. In this case, it works, but I cannot help but wonder if one or two more issues might have let the creators flesh some points out more cleanly and less abruptly.

I really liked the idea of the unlikely hero whose job is to work behind the scenes to make sure the obvious hero can save the world when his time comes. This idea gradually unfolds before us, and it gives us a charming story where Twig goes through his own quest and learns his own lessons, all while just trying to do his job.

The battle rages and a new Arthur enters the field!

Work is never a dull moment for Virgil, especially when some of the problems are caused by his own team members!

At least Alice's sister Edith wonders whether the treatment might be worse than the disease.

If you like a disquieting horror story with the protagonist reasoning through a game of cat-and-mouse while being the mouse, House of Slaughter #8 is terrific. I like the shift in the balance of power between Edwin and Hermes and the way Edwin's fatalism contributes to his creativity.

Why does Walter Willem's unremarkable life end on the field of a perpetual battle?

I like the way Sins of the Black Flamingo #3 deftly uses the occult as a way to introduce characters that appear related to religion and juxtapose them against a man who has been absolutely certain that there is no place for them in this world.

Jess has lost her scythe, but while Death is missing, his scythe responds to her touch.

Owen's mission to help an old friend escape life as a vampire's thrall leads him a step closer to another mission

Lupe is the girl of Rico's dreams, except that her very existence seems improbable.

Kit learns that the rogue Titan is piloted by her estranged uncle who has an axe to grind!

Did Barrow really sell Quests Aside when we weren't looking?

The Deadliest Bouquet #1 sets out to be a murder mystery with the three sisters dead center. But it looks as though this mystery may have deep roots, and that makes it intriguing.

The Ward #3 continues to be dramatic as well as interestingly chaotic. St. Lilith's is like a normal hospital on steroids or even troll supplements and it is a gripping and entertaining read.

Anything seems possible with mind control and Ben dreams big!

Stetson edges closer to the truth and finds it hits uncomfortably close to her!

Basilisk #10 is well-crafted and disquieting. It feels as though everyone keeps slipping further into the darker side of their souls all for the sake of the Chimera whom no one fully understands.

The battle for Philadelphia becomes the battle against the Dark Realm!

The story in Twig #4 continues to grow on you. Even though the trappings are strange and wonderful, we can still make out the underlying bones of a Hero's Journey. Twig thinks he is destined to fail, but he steadfastly continues. I wonder if he is succeeding in a way we do not yet expect.

Will a one-day truce buy enough time for Bridgette's plan to take effect?

Harlow does not believe in angels, but he has rescued one from the clutches of Thorndike Scar!

House of Slaughter #7 gives us a horror story that is more disturbing than disgusting. I like that Edwin thinks about things from a distinct perspective, which fills out our knowledge about this world even while drawing us deeper into the mystery.

Orcs! The Curse #2 is rollicking and amusing but with some serious undertones. I like that the Orcs often act without considering the consequences, but nonetheless are affected by them and must deal with them. And the story closes with a great connection to the wizard who was last issue's problem, so we have not seen the last of him!

Something is Killing the Children #25 is horrifying and well-written. The stakes are big to begin with, but they are blown out of the water by letting Cutter loose. Tense does not even come close to describing the gut-punch that is this book.

Alice thought she would be reaching Wonderland. Instead, her world becomes darker and more dangerous.

Armorclads #5 is a solid ending of the story arc. Overall, while there are times when the story drags because there is so much world-building information, it is a satisfying read and I like that it has a strong sense of hope.

There is an imbalance between the living and the dead, and Adira thinks she knows what to do about it.

Is Stetson getting closer to Valkira, or is Valkira getting closer to Stetson?

If the structure has a loose feeling on first read, do not let Quests Aside #3 fool you. The story is deftly woven throughout the book and is balanced by some wonderful character development. The staff are a bunch of schmucks, and we cannot help but love them all.

Hannah, Regan, and Vanessa still live, but what does this mean for the cult of the Chimera?

Twig's journey continues and his quest becomes more complicated.

There are a lot of factions in play here, as well as potentially shifting alliances. This is a book that requires some careful reading, but it is well worth the reward.

Sins of the Black Flamingo #1 is entertaining and sets up a wild heist scenario sure to have some great complications. Harlow has a lot of attitude which makes this a lively read, and I am already looking forward to more.

Canto #1 (Tales of the Unnamed World) breaks away from the main storyline and lets us experience the world in a quieter time. Since one of the main themes is stories, this is a fitting way to do some additional exploration.

Arrowsmith #6 may be the end of an arc, but it is not the end of the story. I like that we have slowly learned a lot about the magic in this world and gotten glimpses into the culture. It feels both modern and vintage at the same time, supported by drop-dead gorgeous artwork.

When the fate of the world is on the line, a few decisions can change everything.

Is there any peace for the ghosts of America and the ghosts of the Old James House?

Erica desperately tries to find a lead on the latest monster she is hunting.

Slumber #4 takes a tale of hunting a serial killer and twists it by sending it literally into the world of dreams and nightmares. Detectives try to make sense of what is going on while struggling to balance reality and unreality in this tense and gripping mystery.

Alice Ever After #3 is an unusual book that explores trauma through a lens of Victorian horror. Moments vary from fanciful to thoughtful to outright sinister, and as the pieces start fitting together, it is becoming even more engaging.

Jess feels the mystery of her death, and her ability to be seen by the living must be related.

Bog and friends are back as an evil wizard confronts them and doesn't get the reaction he expected!

As everyone seems to want to buy his Tavern, Barrow wonders if he made the right decision when he gave up adventuring.

Twig never suspected that being late to work on his first day would lead to this many complications.

Just another day at St. Lilith's, the hospital for the supernatural.

Bridgette finally reveals her plan but will it be enough?

Fletcher begins to understand how little he knows of the history of his magic.

A simple rescue suddenly becomes a crucial diplomatic mission.

A bigger battle calls for more unusual alliances.

While Chris and Claire get to know each other, the ghosts are hard at work underground.

A little magic in the woods, a book of folk tales, what could possibly go wrong?

The Blue Flame #8 is an odd mix of cosmic, spiritual, and gritty. Sam's timelines diverge so much that it is challenging to keep them in perspective. But beneath it all, there are some interesting thoughts presented to us.

Lela brings Ironclad workers together for an attempt to rescue Peris.

The House of Slaughter runs on more than the Dragon and his hunters.

Lady Mechanika concludes the story of her childhood and learns it may not be finished yet!

Val is one step closer to getting Piper to Eos until Piper takes things into her own hands.

The latest soul Jessica escorts to the afterlife tries to steal her scythe.

Quests Aside #1 has many of the tropes we love, but also enough subversion of them that they seem fresh. The story that is being revealed is serious, even dark, so the humor plays an interesting counterpoint to that.

The legend of Arthur is so eternal that it has taken on many forms.

Vampires are powerful, not nice, and protect their lifestyle ruthlessly.

It's not just about the game, it's about major transitions in life.

Erica tries to investigate while dealing with a decidedly uncooperative survivor.

An interdimensional incursion may lead to a major interdimensional incident!

Armorclads #2 is not just the story of a handful of plucky young workers. It is the story of a system that thrives on inequality and may be plagued by corruption. And to complicate matters, the Legionnaires are no friend to anyone.

Fletcher Arrowsmith has escaped and learns about the mission he is to be a part of.

The final ghost returns to the Old James House, but not like anyone expected!

A plan hundreds of years in the making, and SeeSaw is an unanticipated variable in it.

Kit faces her first battle in the Titan and another confrontation with her father.

Blacktop Bill aligns himself with Sundog Convoy and even helps them out, which seems so unlike him.

The veil thins as the Deadside oozes into Earth, and Earth is drawn into the Deadside!

Alice has left childhood behind, but still yearns to go to Wonderland, although the price is steep.

Satomi desperately wants to step away from her powers, but a new complication arises.

A dark tale from the heart of Monkey Meat Island.

This is it the final showdown with Ewon!

Althalia doesn't just work in a paranormal museum, she is a bruja, and the last of her lineage!

Kamala's powers are acting up, but she has a problem to deal with regardless.

"The Pure may save lives, but it cost the life of a young miner, and the lives of several guards.

Killadelphia #20 is amazing. It takes historical figures and gives them additional nuance, making them much more human even while making them supernatural. Each issue gives us so much to think about, but the immediate tension of the plot never dies away. This is just an incredible book.

The veil has been torn asunder and Deadside walks the Earth!

Hannah is driven toward revenge even as Regan sees how drastic the possible consequences are.

Another ghost, another complication.

Life can be tough on Monkey Meat Island, but every now and then the stories end well.

Sin may no longer be a Werewolf, but she still has connections.

In a young life full of terror and pain, a young Mechanika also learns about kindness.

There's no turning back now as Toba and his friends sneak into the school to stop the mind control!

Juniper and Toby have fallen on hard times, but they find their way into adventure!

Val's leads are dwindling and soon the only one left may be Blacktop Bill himself!

The Blue Flame learns about the destruction of Yarix' planet and gets another idea for his defense.

Claire may no longer be alone in the heroing business, and it's a good thing with Ghosts on the loose in the city!

Kit agrees to pilot the family Titan, but it is going to be on her own terms.

The battle for Philadelphia rages on with werewolves now helping humans against the vampires.

To be a successful hunter, one must be more clever than the prey could imagine.

The power of individuality and the power of teamwork are not mutually exclusive.

Jack's message to the demons of the Deadside fall on deaf ears, and even the Gods of Voodoo have turned against him.

The Old James House ghost has more secrets to reveal, and a complicated past.

Anne Bonny's tale marks the ending of the age of pirates.

Canto fights the Fury's army in the Frysta Wastes, but what else has the Shrouded Man planned?

Hawkeye: Kate Bishop #4 is lively and fun. A nice little mystery has escalated rapidly to the point where Kate needs to ply all her skills to keep things under control.

Life on Monkey Meat Island is interesting and unexpected.

Chandra's inability to travel to Ravnica leads her to Urborg " and into another conflict!

Regan and Hannah are allies, but Vanessa may be more of a foe than they anticipated.

Virgil meets one of the original Hellcops and finds out some of the dimension's history.

Nocterra #7 makes a triumphant return with a story that feels bigger and even more dangerous than the last arc. I like that we're also starting to dig more into the mystery of what actually happened to cause the Big PM. Is there actually a way to reverse it, or is that only a MacGuffin? Either way, this is a gripping and fast-paced read.

The mystery of the old house is solved, but there are bigger problems in Buckhead!

Jace shares his past with Aaron in the hopes of sparing his life.

The two Arthurs meet in battle and Bridgette searches for new and dangerous allies.

The Negatrixes continue to cause problems, but this time they head for the top " the Mayor!

Can the handful of ghosts in the Old James House withstand the power of the Nuclear Bastard?

Things are not always what they seem is one of Mechanika's earliest lessons.

Shadowman thinks he knows the solution, but will anyone else be willing to accept it?

It will take more than the Vikus to challenge the Furies!

Life in Solar City is tough to begin with, but for a former werewolf, it takes on a whole new level of complexity.

Kit Hobbs has a life of her own, but suddenly finds herself drawn back into the family's work.

Cass is an excited new player, but her enthusiasm inadvertently starts taking over the game.

The Seeker has figured out how to catch the Cat " but is the Cat really the problem?

Magic #10 is just what you want from a story about the Planeswalkers of Magic. We get to see them doing what they do best. They can set aside their differences for a greater good. And we get the hint that, while they have saved the day, their troubles are not quite over.

Virgil Hilts is on the lam in Hell, attempting to clear his name.

Nocterra: Blacktop Bill is the awful origin story you didn't know you needed. It's horrifying, it's brutal, and it fits him perfectly. We may not understand his obsession, but we do get how it drives him.

Things are strange in Buckhead, and maybe a video game is the key to the mystery.

Spend time with the Stray Dogs again and get to know them better.

The Blue Flame fights to save humanity even as Sam struggles to survive and to help his sister.

Stories have power in the Otherworld, and they are starting to converge!

Aaron's task is to hunt and kill his old love, but first there is a monster to fight.

Ms. Marvel #1 starts out with the seed of a serious plot and then takes a deft shift in tone. It's over the top and a little goofy, but Kamala manages to maintain a solid grip on reality. I really enjoyed this as the start of a new arc.

Twenty-five years ago, a famed masked vigilante vanished and now someone wants to find him again!

Why are ghosts of the past haunting the present in the middle of winter?

Dizzy has her special equipment, but now the hard work begins.

It's back to the Depths and a battle at sea in Inkblot #14!

It's Toba's first day at a new school, and the mysteries just keep coming.

Reality hits Ro hard as she faces off against the creature she once thought she loved.

An old RPG campaign revisited " but with a brand-new character in the mix!

As the two Arthurs prepare for war, Duncan and his team attempt to preserve their autonomy!

Aaron recalls the first man he ever loved " and how he had to kill him.

Mercy may have been stabbed, but that won't stop her from protecting the Incan gold!

It's the action-packed finale as Groo and Tarzan save the day!

On their own again, Jonna and Rainbow continue the search for their father.

Dizzy hasn't become great at anything"yet. But that may be about to change.

Playing the long game, Mamo threatens to catch Orla for good in her trap.

Canto may be small, but he has the courage to face his old enemy and offer up a hand in peace.

Inkblot #13 connects more threads from earlier issues but introduces five new characters as well. It can be challenging to keep track of who is who especially since the Cat jumps through time and the Seeker's family ages unnaturally slowly. But the story is starting to coalesce more around a focus which makes it feel more on track.

Ro's art retreat becomes a virtual prison.

A quiet winter day in the life of the new Adventureman"or is it?

Are James, Adams, and SeeSaw strong enough to face down Abigail and her vampires?

A rescue mission to Bath leads to an encounter straight out of Roman mythology!

It's hard to keep a pirate in jail when they have an unexpected ally.

A centuries old curse lies sleeping " until outlaws decide to steal the Incan gold!

Die Glocke has opened a portal between our world " and what other world?

Orla and Jo realize that making connections may lead to complications.

Which is stronger, the loyalty of friendship, or loyalty bought with threats?

What a difference a day makes in so many lives.

Ro Meadows has found her muse " but will it ever let her go?

Wrassle Castle Vol. 1 is full of interesting and diverse characters. There is so much fun to be had with them, and it is easy to identify with them. The major plot is interesting and dramatic, with political overtones that could play into Lydia's family more than she might expect.

Will Erica's success change her or her relationships at the House of Slaughter?

Adventureman lives, and the world will never be the same again!

The curse of Totcolissica's headdress is starting to come to life!

Killadelphia #17, believe it or not, takes the existing conflict and raises the ante even further. It is not only a horror story, it is philosophy, it is social commentary, and throughout all of this there is a still a silver thread of hope. It is magnificent.

The residents of Gran's Home are safe for now, so it is time to find and rescue Rose's parents.

Compass: The Cauldron of Eternal Life #4 continues to thrill and delight. With one foot squarely in history, it pulls from the best of fantastic to create a tale that balances the two deftly.

The world can be a big and dangerous place, but it is better with friends.

Bermuda, the terror of Trangle, commits to helping rescue Bobby's sister.

As Canto and Aulaura explore the Frysta Wastes, the Shrouded Man mobilizes his army!

Ro quickly moves from terror to acceptance of the ghostly being in her house.

Jo and Orla work hard to set things right and find some unusual assistance.

One Cat, and one civil war " this won't end badly"

If Groo meets Tarzan, will the evildoers be vanquished, or will the world be destroyed?

The Many Deaths of Laila Starr #5 is beautiful and is a wonderful treat to read. You can read it multiple times and it is still powerful. It is so full of feelings as well as contentment, and it is a glorious reminder in a troubled world that there are still things that make life worth living.

Something is Killing the Children #19 takes Erica's ordeal and uses it to great effect to show us what a remarkable young woman she was and is. Her insistence on sticking to the truth, no matter how painful, tells us a lot about her strength and character.

Two young women, burning with faith, are put to the test.

King Arthur returns to Britain leaving a huge swath of bodies in his wake.

Killadelphia #16 keeps us on our toes, taking an already complicated web of characters and twisting the power dynamic yet again in a way that makes me impatient for the next issue already. It is an incredibly complicated juggling act done impressively well.

Has Val reached safety, or is history doomed to repeat itself?

The magical vestigial of a werewolf brings back memories for Thomas Nightingale.

The Cadets come face-to-face with what they are up against, and it is formidable!

Shahi is taken to the entrance to the Barrow of Annwn, but from there she is on her own!

Bitter Root #15 is a hugely satisfying closure for one of the most brilliant series I have ever read. The story is unflinching and gripping in its honesty. But it is also unyielding in showing us how persistence in focusing on the greater good is important. Honestly, it has been a privilege to read this book.

In moving toward the future, Canto visits another place from his past to search for the Slavers.

The problems with Haresden may be related to Mamo's death"and her restless spirit!

Monstrous chaos breaks out at the Antarctic base as Ben tries to find Kat.

Why does the mysterious Cat seem to have a connection to the Seeker and her family through the ages?

Ro Meadows is trying to recover her creativity but finds more than she bargained for.

On their way to the Duke, Wynd and his friends learn what others think about humans.

Something is Killing the Children #18 is a terrific chapter in one of the most fascinating origin stories I have ever read.

The action may be on Earth, but Tevin looks for answers in the spirit realm.

Zadie and her family unite and work together to get Ricky back.

In Compass: The Cauldron of Eternal Life #2, we learn what is at stake. All the pieces appear to be on the playing field and we are at that wonderful point where everyone is at cross purposes, and we cannot know who can be trusted.

The Many Deaths of Laila Starr #4 is unquestionably brilliant, a story that brings us face to face with the questions we all have about life and about death. And by exploring these, it also shows us some of what it means simply to be human.

Kat walks the tightrope of life as a spy, not knowing that Ben is on his way to her.

Canto realizes that he needs allies, and more of them, in his fight against the Shrouded Man.

Anne's few days of relaxation are about to end in all-out melee!

Life as a Ranger is more dangerous than any of the Cadets had anticipated.

Emrys finishes his tale and we learn that actions have consequences, some of which may be unintended.

When the local witch of Haresden dies, Jo tries to find some help for her town.

First day on a new operation, and Miriam Stephanopoulos detects Falcon involvement already.

Wynd and friends slip away from the Vampyres and into the hands of the Faeries.

When a little clay Dogu is in trouble and needs help, Chibi Usagi and his friends answer the call!

While The Autumnal #8 is not an issue to read alone, it is a fantastic close to the story. All the loose ends are tied up, and there is just enough of a twist to catch us. And you will never think of pretty fall colors the same way again.

For a short interlude, Canto and the City of Giants #3 finishes a compact story well. These three issues can stand on their own perfectly well, but I like how the also give us plot points and events that make Canto's main story that much richer.

Zadie gains some control over her shadows, but her life is falling apart.

Stray Dogs #5 is a nail-biter right to the end, especially if you are a dog lover. The dogs are sympathetic and heroic without ever losing their dogginess. The ending is well-crafted and doesn't cheat the story. Even better, there is a hint of a new Stray Dogs book to come in the future.

Giga #4 is an intense chapter in a story full of plots, treachery, and even some hope and optimism. The series is a fantastic read with hard-hitting ideas that make you stop and think and characters that continue to surprise.

Shahidah El-Amin is searching for an artifact but has discovered much more than she bargained for.

Rangers of the Divide #2 succeeds at drawing us into a world that has a tantalizing amount of potential for story. This issue is more about the world and its challenges at this point than about character development, but it is still a captivating concept.

Like ships that pass in the night, Laila Starr keeps finding Darius Shah and losing him before she realizes it is he.

Shortly after they get to safety, Wynd and his friends find themselves under attack by a new enemy.

When vigilante meets sneak thief, sparks fly, but oh so briefly.

I enjoyed The Secret Land #1. The set up is complicated, so at times the narration can feel a little heavy. But the pay off is not only that Kat is still alive, but that she has found herself at the heart of something huge, and her connection with Ben is somehow important to this all. If you like action and intrigue, this is a solid read.