James Ferguson Comic Reviews

Aliens: Dead Orbit is a testament to great storytelling. It shows how effective mood can be in a horror comic. You don't need jump scares or over-the-top gore. You can fill a reader with fear with the right pace and setting. Sure, xenomorphs help and I'm betting we'll get plenty of blood and guts in future issues, but for now, this is a fantastic introduction that stands on its own for new and old fans of the franchise.

The tension never lets up. Even the scenes where the crew gets to catch their breath are filled with uneasy foreboding. Stokoe is a master at building the terror, using the story, art, and lettering together in such a cohesive way. Aliens: Dead Orbit is the kind of comic you read with fists clenched, fearful of what's waiting on the next page. This is an unforgettable book and a must-read for any fan of Aliens.

Stokoe brings that tension to the lettering as well, with a jagged font that makes the dialogue (mostly grunts and breaths) appear pained. It's like it's a struggle for Wascylewski to even make a sound, let alone put a few words together. Screams are particularly expressive with letters changing in size to coincide with the volume. Aliens: Dead Orbit will leave you with white knuckles and clenched fists. This is the best Aliens comic I've ever read and gave me a newfound appreciation for the franchise. James Stokoe's work is absolutely gorgeous from beginning to end and I hope to see more of it very soon.

Free Comic Book Day can be hit or miss with some titles.  Many end up as reprints of old stories or all-too-brief introductions to a story that is way far away.  ComixTribe released a great middle ground with this book, supplying a nice addendum to an already amazing mini-series and offering a fantastic introduction to an upcoming one.  There's also a teaser for a third title.  If this doesn't make you want to go through the publisher's back issues, nothing will.

Animosity presents a frightening reality that hinges on just one element being changed in our world. Talking animals have never been more terrifying.  If anything, it will cause you to be nicer to any creature, big or small, that you see, because if they do gain the ability to speak, they're going to have some choice words for you if you've wronged them.

If this is what we can expect from DC Black Label, sign me up for every book that's scheduled. Batman: Damned is a top-notch comic, providing something new for a character that's been around for decades and I'm not just talking about his junk. Batman must not only investigate the murder of his greatest enemy, but he has to rule himself out as a suspect. That's something he doesn't have enough evidence to do just yet, so the great detective soldiers on along a path of madness and the supernatural.

Comics mainly consist of the second act of a never-ending story. We've seen the beginning long ago and we rarely see an end. Batman: Last Knight on Earth feels like an end and it's an amazing one. With all that Bruce Wayne has been through, he deserves one epic sendoff and that's what this is. This is big, scary, and so very awesome. Plus, it's super accessible so anyone can jump in and enjoy, even if you only have a passing knowledge of Batman.

Batman: Last Knight on Earth is a fascinating and exhilarating road trip through a broken and battered DC Universe. It simultaneously serves as a riveting standalone story as well as the culmination of the impressive run from Snyder and Capullo. Batman is forced to face his biggest failures, questioning his never-ending war on crime through a dark, horrific lens.

There's a part of every comic fan that thinks it would be cool to see Batman take out everyone in the DC Universe, proving he's the ultimate badass. His fight against Superman in The Dark Knight Returns is an absolute classic. The Batman Who Laughs is a horrifying take on that idea. It pushes the Caped Crusader past all limits and into true super villain territory. After seeing a comic like this, the DC Universe must hope and pray that Batman never goes through such a life-shattering experience. Someone should be assigned to hug him at least once a day.

Beautiful Canvas is a book that will surprise you.  It's a testament to a creative team that works well together, bringing out the best in one another.  This is a great mix of crime, action, and drama with compelling characters and jaw-dropping artwork.  Buy this book.

Black Magick may have taken a break from the current story to provide some background on the main character, however it doesn't come across as a history lesson.  It doesn't even lose much in the way of momentum.  If anything, it has the opposite effect, making us care more about Rowan and her life so that when Rucka and Scott come back with the next issue, we'll be even more emotionally invested with her.  This is how you do great character work which in turn, translates to compelling horror.

Border Town is off to a tremendous start. It's established the main characters and thrown them into utter chaos thanks to an encounter with an insane and frightening monster. This issue closes out with a jaw-dropping image giving us an idea of the caliber of supernatural creatures we can expect from the rest of the series. Plus, eagle-eyed DC fans will find several references to other properties like Sandman, Wonder Woman, and more, so you get a fun Easter Egg hunt as a bonus to all the terror.

Border Town is equal parts terrifying and relevant. Comics have long been a vehicle for exploring political issues and this one delves into racism in a way that really puts things in perspective. I realize I'm far from an expert with that, as I'm a white man, however there are several eye-opening scenes in this issue that show just how frightening the real world can be for people with a different skin color. It's saying something when the monsters aren't the scariest thing featured.

Bosco & Fleet: Detectives of the Occult Sciences lays the groundwork for what I hope leads to many more comics.  The artwork is gorgeous.  The story is intriguing.  Although this is a self-contained tale, there are hints at what may be coming down the line, including a Moriarty-like villain, pulling strings behind the scenes.  It's tough for a comic set in London in 1890 starring a pair of detectives as it will instantly be compared to Sherlock Holmes.  Bosco & Fleet carves its own niche, away from the literary icon, in a supernatural corner that he would never dare tread.

Burning Fields has a few more moving parts than the creative team's previous project, Curse, but the strong character development is the same. These are people that you can instantly identify with. You'll find yourself wondering what you would do in a similar situation. They're underdogs and they're about to come into contact with something dark and evil. The bulk of the issue is spent giving you an idea of who these characters are, with some strong indications of the horror that is lurking just below the surface. This is an impressive first issue that hits the ground running with blood-curdling imagery.

Chew / Revival is the kind of comic I wish happened more often.  Two books that don't seem to totally mesh together on the surface have found a way to weave their storylines through one another.  I'm not expecting them to make this a regular occurrence or even to do it again.  The fact that it happened at all is pretty awesome.  There's even a nod to another popular Image comic in the issue.  This does beg the question: What other crossovers can the publisher get through?  Can we get a Ghosted / Hoax Hunters mash up?  What about Walking Dead and '68?

Chum presents you with intriguing characters, an interesting setting, and a riveting plot.  These folks have been living in what passes for harmony in what should be paradise.  Now it's all about to spiral out of control despite some best laid yet hastily made plans.  This is dark.  This is cool.  This is just so damn good.

Chum is a book tailor-made for any fan of film noir or pulp novels.  It's the epitome of cool.  At its center is a woman with nothing to lose and everything to gain.  If that means that she has to take out a few of the locals that have been bringing her down all these years, so be it.  There's one issue left and this one ended in such a powerhouse move that I cannot wait to see how the creative team wraps this up.

Colder: Toss the Bones is filled with the kind of horror that seeps into your skin, spreading to every fiber of your being until you're too frightened to turn the page.  You can't help yourself though.  You have to see what happens, even if that means going down the rabbit hole of insanity that is Nimble Jack and the Hungry World.  While this is the final chapter in the Colder trilogy, creators Paul Tobin and Juan Ferreyra are just getting started. Read this on the toilet because it may scare the crap out of you.

Colder: Toss the Bones is an unsettling, disturbing read, but it's one that you can't help but be pulled into.  You'll devour every page and beg for more.  It's the kind of horror that stays with you long after you've finished reading it and will have you looking over your shoulder for hours.

I had no prior knowledge of Cosmic Ghost Rider before jumping into this issue. Now he's one of my favorite Marvel characters. The comic opens with a brief recap of his life up until this point, told in defining images and one word captions that instantly gets you up to speed. I most definitely have to go back and read Cates' run on Thanos where this character is introduced. That's what I can do in the time before the next issue arrives because I need some more Cosmic Ghost Rider right now.

It's impossible to read Cosmic Ghost Rider and not smile. This has quickly become one of my favorite comics. It's a quirky and absurd concept that works so incredibly well. It's an absolute shame this is only a mini-series because I would totally read about the ongoing adventures of Cosmic Ghost Rider and baby Thanos traveling through space on a sci-fi motorcycle. There is no part of that idea that I dislike.

Cosmic Ghost Rider already established itself as one of my favorite comics of the year. This issue raises the bar even higher. It is such a fun, wacky ride that plays like a hilarious comedy. Frank set out to do something good that might make up for all the horrible things he's done in his life, but he might have made it a whole lot worse instead.

I'm so sad that this mini-series has come to an end. I could read this forever. Writer Donny Cates has done wonders with this character, so I'm glad to see that he's sticking around in the upcoming Guardians of the Galaxy relaunch. For now, this is a solid read that melds all these corners of the Marvel Universe into one awesome being. If you would have told me that a book called Cosmic Ghost Rider would have me screaming from eye-popping action one moment and nearly in tears the next, I wouldn't have believed you. This comic delivers on so many levels and it is an absolute must read.

Cry Havoc has a strong opener that grabs you from page one.  That might be because the first page is also the beginning of the end of the story.  It doesn't stop there though; it pulls you in with each new thread of the plot, weaving a well-rounded and personal werewolf tale with a relatable, interesting character at its center.  The artwork is clean and gorgeous with just the right amount of terror to keep you on your toes. 

If you sit in the middle of the Venn diagram of super hero fans and horror fans, Cursed Comics Calvacade is a must-read for you. Show this comic some support because I desperately want to see more like it, and not just every October. Can you imagine an ongoing anthology comic like Creepy or Tales from the Crypt set in the DC Universe? I'd be all over that and I'm sure I'm not the only one.

Day Men is off to a great start with its first two issues.  This chapter gets the action moving quickly as the battle between the two families heats up...literally.  This is a strong story with some dynamite art.  Let's just not wait so long before issue #3 comes out, huh?

Deathbed is a fast-moving, gorgeously illustrated tale of supernatural adventure. It has the feel of a grown-up version of Goners, which is another series I love. The interaction between Antonio and Val is already delivering and I'm very interested to see where this unlikely duo could go. If this first issue is any indication, it's going to be completely insane.

At the time of this writing, Deer Editor: Hack is currently being funded through a Kickstarter campaign. You can get the entire issue for $1 and I assure you, it is well worth that price.

Demonic shows the lengths a man is willing to go for his family, even if that means submitting to a literal evil and committing heinous acts of murder.   It presents a very real feeling that any parent can relate to.  There is a constant unsettling feeling that permeates throughout every panel, leading up to one of the best cliffhanger endings you'll read all year.  From beginning to end, Demonic is a great read and well worth your time.

Devolution hits the ground running with an amazing first issue.  It hits on all marks with a great story, gorgeous artwork, and vibrant colors.  This series was first announced more than three years ago and I assure you, it was worth the wait.

Die is like a cross between Stephen King's It and The Never-Ending Story. These normal teenagers are whisked away to a fantasy world where they witnessed real terror that's haunted them well into their adult lives. Now they've been forced to return and face it once again, this time voluntarily. This debut issue set a very high bar for this series.

You might think you know what you're getting into with Die, but you are just scraping the surface. This book was described as "Goth Jumanji" and that's pretty accurate. It's like the most compelling and terrifying version of Dungeons & Dragons ever imagined. This book is packed with stellar character drama and jaw-dropping artwork. It is awesome in every sense of the word.

Die is big, bold, and terrifying. It takes the fantasy genre to new heights with jaw-dropping imagery and incredible storytelling. Forget what you know about the genre and dig into this astonishing world.

Die #5 builds up to an incredible climax that really changes the game. I have absolutely no idea where the series will go next and that is an awesome feeling. I'm filled with anticipation as to what else is in store for us. The next issue cannot come soon enough.

Dracula, Motherf*cker! is a refreshing take on the age-old vampire. It's also a fantastic comic that is absolutely engrossing from beginning to end. The story and visuals work perfectly together to pull you in from the jump. This is a book I will read over and over again, pouring over every single detail, allowing the fantastic artwork to really sink in.

Drifter has the makings of the next great sci-fi western. It has the best elements of both genres mixed together in a peanut butter cup of a comic. Plus, this debut issue builds up to a closing piece of dialogue that is an amazing cliffhanger that will have you demanding the next issue.

I honestly cannot believe this comic exists. I mean, Disney owns this. It's something completely unexpected and utterly horrific and I love it. Fantastic Four: Road Trip is a shining example that horror can reach even the brightest and boldest areas of the Marvel Universe.

Fearscape has the vibe of a literary journey through Sandman. It seems to aim that high and so far, is sticking the landing. Writer Ryan O'Sullivan has made a despicable character and put him in a situation where he could save the world. I kind of want to see this jerk fail so he finally gets the comeuppance he deserves, but that would mean sacrificing an untold amount of lives. What a moral conundrum we've got here.

Fearscape tackles big concepts in an easy to digest manner. It examines a very flawed character, as he's reluctantly pushed along the hero's journey that he doesn't want or deserve to be on. This makes for an interesting dynamic that carries some very dire consequences. The road is only going to get harder from here, so I can't imagine how Henry is going to deal with what comes next.

Fearscape elicits a visceral reaction in the reader. We've been pulled so completely into this world, both the real side and the fantasy side, that we're along for this ride 100%. I want nothing more than to see Henry Henry get what he really deserves. Based on the events of this issue, I hope it comes sooner rather than later because he is a heinous human being.

I read Fearscape through gritted teeth and white knuckles, angered by the sheer audacity of Henry Henry. His not-so-carefully constructed ruse is starting to crumble and I cannot wait until it all falls down upon him. From the looks of things, he's not going to go down without a fight, but it will all be worth it to see him taken down a peg.

Fearscape is next level storytelling. It's easily one of the best comics of the year and this issue just seals the deal. I am simultaneously overjoyed and angered by the twists and turns the book has taken. It's definitely an unexpected journey that will keep you guessing until the very end. Buy this book with confidence.

Frank at Home on the Farm is like nothing else you'll read today. It's equal parts unsettling and unforgettable. This is a haunting, tragic story that will shake you to your core. In short, you need to read this.

Frankenstein, Alive, Alive! is a brilliant character study providing a take on someone that has been labeled a monster for decades.  Instead of telling the same old story of this creature mindlessly rampaging at villagers with torches, Niles and Wrightson are providing an emotional look at a misunderstood beast that is searching for his true place in the world.  Despite his appearance, humanity is the real monster, considering they brought him back to life and have brought him face to face with this new situation.

This book cuts to the heart of what makes Ghost Rider interesting and it does it twice in a single issue since we've got two of them in here. It's much more than just a cool looking design and a bitchin' ride (although that helps). It's a very good time to be a Ghost Rider fan.

Danny and Johnny's paths are connected and it will be interesting how they come together again. We're definitely building towards something big and I'm eager to see how it will all play out. This is a horror adventure story like no other.

Ghost Rider #7 serves as a nice closure for this chapter in Johnny Blaze's life while opening the door to a slew of possibilities. If this is how this new series is getting started, I can't imagine what else is in store for us. This is dark, frightening horror at the core of the Marvel Universe and it's pretty awesome.

Ghost Tree has the look and feel of a great Neil Gaiman story. It resonates in a way that few books do, reaching both the inner child and the jaded adult. It's horror in that it deals with ghosts and the supernatural, but the real terror comes in the everyday fears that we all have. Ghost Tree brings those to the surface in an almost uncomfortable way.

Ghost Tree is like Neil Gaiman meets Ghilbi. It has a nice blend of horror and drama that delivers an incredibly moving story. This is the kind of book that makes you want to go out and hug your loved ones. It uses death and ghosts to create a life-affirming message. There's an undercurrent of terror as we see how Brandt can lose everything, including himself, in these woods.

Ghost Tree hit me hard and at the perfect moment in my life. It speaks to my very soul. This is a comic that's going to stay with me for a long time and I'm sure I'm not the only one that feels that way. It simultaneously filled me with fear and life-affirming hope. This is what the comic book medium is capable of.

God Country has the makings of an epic story at a deeply personal scale.  It teases just enough to hook you, leaving you begging for more.  Roy's life is very real and one that you can instantly connect with.  This makes the events of the book all the more dramatic and powerful.  This is a stunning debut issue.

Branwyn is embarking on a quest for revenge in Bride of Blood.  It's going to get a lot messier but she's not going to stop until every last one of those bastards pays.  As with previous Grindhouse: Doors Open at Midnight stories, this one will be completed with the next chapter.  After this stellar first issue, I'm really looking forward to how this wraps up and what kind of violence this woman will unleash on these men.

Grizzly Shark is such a damn enjoyable comic.  I read this with a grin on my face and had several laugh-out-loud moments.  That's probably saying something about my sense of humor, but I'm willing to bet that if you're reading this, you're in the same bucket.  Ryan Ottley delivers massive amounts of ridiculous fun in these 32 pages.  They just happen to be covered in blood.

Hellboy vs. Lobster Johnson shows us the sillier side of the Mignolaverse. It's not a slapstick comedy, but it shows how it can poke fun at itself. Writers Mike Mignola and Chris Roberson turned in a great tale that uses the best elements of these characters and the crazy world they live in. I would read an ongoing series of Hellboy's adventures in Mexico if this is the kind of thing we'd get.

The Midnight Circus is a great addition to the Hellboy mythos.  It fills in some of the gaps to provide a little more backstory to the character and how he became the man and the hero later on in life.  It also shows how deeply that Professor Bruttenholm cares for the boy in a world where the child is treated as an outcast and a bit of a freak. This is worth checking out for Duncan Fegredo's excellent artwork alone.

Hellbreak can at times resemble a blockbuster action movie akin to the Expendables.  Then it pulls back the curtain a bit and reveals that this elite team of soldiers is not fighting Columbian drug lords or Mel Gibson.  Instead, they're fighting the forces of Hell itself, in all its terror.  This is a damn satisfying first issue and you are not going to find a better deal on the comic stands right now.

Lucifer is like the power and determination of Buffy mixed with the sheer badassery of Faith, and wrapped in all-around cool.  I like to think Hexed takes place in the same world as the vampire slayers, but she deals in the shady back alleys that the Chosen One would never venture within.  Although she has no real reason to be a hero, she does what's right no matter the cost, and she does it with a smile on her face.  

Hexed has easily become one of my favorite titles. Lucifer is a strong female lead that rivals the likes of Buffy and Wonder Woman. She's that good. The comic is packed with a rich and seemingly never-ending mythology that only serves to amplify the possibilities for future stories.

Hexed is easily one of the best comics on the stands today.  Michael Alan Nelson and Dan Mora have built an exciting, supernatural adventure with a strong character-driven story.  I read this entire issue with gritted teeth, shocked at the lengths that Lucifer was willing to go.  This is the kind of comic that reads like a blockbuster movie.  I certainly hope that the big screen is in its future.

I'm so sad that Hexed is ending, but it could not have gone out in a more spectacular fashion. It ends not with a bang or a whimper, but with a smirk and a knowing nod. In many ways, Hexed is the spiritual successor to Buffy the Vampire Slayer. It takes a strong female character, surrounds her with an interesting supporting cast, and throws her into some hellish situations that she must overcome. It makes for a great read and one that I hope returns someday.

Hot Damn is like a stoner comedy set in Hell.  These characters are screw-ups just trying to putz through the afterlife.  They were stupid when they were alive and they're still pretty dumb.  The thing is, if they mess up now, the results are far worse.  That won't stop them from getting into trouble.

House of Waxwork #2 can be purchased directly from Waxwork here.

I Hate Fairyland is like Candyland seen through the prism of John Kricfalusi.  It's filled with the dark humor that we've come to love and expect from the likes of Lenore and Invader Zim.  It takes the tropes from classic children's tales and kicks them right in the balls before ripping their hearts right out.

I Hate Fairyland is a cornucopia of candy-coated carnage.  (Alliteration is fun, kids!)  If you've ever suffered through a game of Candyland or wanted to tear the head off a Care Bear, this is the perfect comic for you.  Let me leave you with this:  Within the first three pages (previewed above), a tiny butterfly teddy bear creature rips the heart out of a monster and displays it to a cheering crowd like some demented version of Gladiator.  If that doesn't make you want to buy this comic, nothing will.  Also, we can't be friends.

Immortal She-Hulk is a welcome addition to the always-stellar Immortal Hulk. It expands the incredible work of that series while reminding us that with all its body horror and pure, unbridled terror, that it's still happening in the Marvel Universe. That's the same place where a big purple alien eats worlds guided by a shining surfer and a star-spangled Avenger throws a shield at Nazis. There's room for these scares in the mix and I'm so glad they're being explored.

Infidel is a shocking comic. It's an early pick for one of the best horror comics of the year. It will chill you to the bone and not just because of the horrifying visions the main character endures.

This is a comic that will stay with you. It's an absolutely terrifying read that will get under your skin.

Infidel is not only one of the scariest comics on the stands today, but one of the most relevant. It forces us to look at our current status quo through the guise of xenophobic entities from another realm, which oddly puts some things in perspective. Read this one with the lights on.

Infidel is easily the scariest comic on the stands right now, let alone one of the best horror comics of the year. This book will chill you to the bone in more ways than one. Words of advice: Don't read this before bed. These ghosts will haunt you long after you put the comic down.

Invader Zim is back and the world is a better place as a result. This is such a damn fun comic and it's great for positively everyone. The humor is so deliciously weird and it never stops being funny. Just go read it already!

It Eats What Feeds It is a terrifying powerhouse of a comic. It starts with a simple concept and builds to an absolute bloodbath. It's one of the best horror comics I've read this year. Do yourself a favor and pick this up.

Itty Bitty Hellboy is a great comic and one that I hope continues for many more issues.  It's the kind of book you can read with your kid, which you can both enjoy.  The humor works on several levels.  The structure of the comic is such that you can easily pick it up at any time and dive right in.  This can be the gateway comic for your child to the wide world of Hellboy that includes everything from killer frogs to the devil himself.  This issue doesn't start with that, but who knows where it could go next?

I was already a fan of Joker: Killer Smile, but this one-shot epilogue amplified that by a thousand percent. This is not just a great take on Batman and the Clown Prince of Crime that presents a fascinating look at these two decades-old characters. It is also a chilling read that will absolutely haunt you. This is top-tier horror and it should not be missed. You don't need to have read Killer Smile to dig into this. Do yourself a favor and seek it out.

Kill or Be Killed is so friggin' good.  It presents a premise that grips you so hard you'll be gasping for breath.  Coupled with gorgeous artwork and stunning colors makes it a book you simply cannot miss.  Buy it. Read it.  Thank me later.

Lady Killer takes the idea of a woman leading a double life and adds a lot of heart to it. It's an ideal mix of comedy, horror, and silly family drama with some damn near perfect artwork. Seriously, after reading this, I want to see Jolle Jones draw everything.

Lady Killer is not just the best comic you'll read about a contract-killer housewife, it's also a gorgeously illustrated book with levels of gore that will rival any horror book on the stands today.  You just haven't lived until you've seen a beautiful woman cut up a body with an electric carving knife.

asljQuery(function(){asljQuery(document).ready(function(){if (!window.sexylightboxEnabled) {SexyLightbox.initialize({"path":"images/reviews_h_p/laudanum/previews","name":"SLB","zIndex":65555,"color":"black","find":"sexylightbox","imagesdir":"http://www.horrortalk.com/plugins/content/artsexylightbox/artsexylightbox/images","background":"bgSexy.png","backgroundIE":"bgSexy.gif","closeButton":"SexyClose.png","showDuration":200,"showEffect":"linear","closeDuration":400,"closeEffect":"linear","moveDuration":800,"resizeDuration":800,"moveEffect":"easeOutBack","resizeEffect":"easeOutBack","previewWidth":200,"loadJQuery":1,"sort":"asc","reflHeight":56,"reflGap":2,"yRadius":40,"xPos":285,"yPos":120,"titleBox":".cloud_carousel_title"});} if (!window.sexylightboxEnabled) {window.sexylightboxEnabled = true;}})});Click images to enlargeLaudanum is like a Victorian version of The Exorcist, but at a far more personal level.  It's a gripping story of a man consumed with guilt over the death of his

This storyline wraps up with the next issue in which a character will die.  I have no idea who will kick the bucket, but I'd be sad to see any of the characters die as they work so well together.  It's a great comedic team.  If anyone has to go, can it be the pickle hat?  Does he count?  Is it a he?  Do pickle hats have genders?

Leviathan is a super fun, like a humorous take on Godzilla, but still driven by the human characters. Sure, we get tons of kaiju carnage as this thing rampaging through a city, but that's just part of it. The real fun comes in the human element as Ray comes to grips with how this giant monster just changed his life forever. Plus, how hard is he going to go after Goth Jimmy for ruining everything? He's seriously the worst.

Leviathan is an absolute blast. It is non-stop fun that will bring a smile to your face, especially if you enjoy dark humor. The action is over-the-top and completely bonkers. I have no idea where it's going to go next but I can't wait to find out.

Little Girl is off to an incredible start with a downright chilling debut issue. The idea of something or someone attacking us while at home is frightening enough on its own. The supernatural element of a young ghost adds an additional layer of terror and intrigue that I'm eager to see play out. In short, this is one of the best first issues of a horror comic I've seen this year.

Locke & Key: Alpha #1 is packed with so much story that I honestly have no idea what Hill and Rodriguez can do with another 48 pages.  There's just one issue left of this series, but in several ways I'd be content if this was the actual finale.  While I'm glad that it's getting a satisfactory ending, I'll be truly sad to see it go.

Locke & Key: Alpha is the perfect kind of closer to a comic.  It's something that's rarely seen in the industry today as we're faced with numerous reboots and relaunches, forcing characters to go on and on.  The series has a beginning, middle, and one helluva an end.  It makes you want to pick up the very first issue and read them all over again right after you put this one down.  It's emotional.  It tugs at the heartstrings.  It's damn near perfect.

Locke & Key: ...In Pale Battalions Go... amplifies the horrors of war through a supernatural lens. If the German army is willing to use poison gas in battle, imagine what they'd do if they got their hands on these keys. While that would have been an interesting enough premise, the story takes an even more frightening turn. I have no idea how this will be wrapped up in the next issue, but I cannot wait to find out.

Although it's been three years since any new content has been released, Hill and Rodriguez have not missed a beat. Locke & Key is still as wondrous, frightening, and filled with adventure as always. Small World captures the sense of awe that can only be felt by a child while dealing with a simple fear that tons of people suffer from.

Locke & Key / Sandman: Hell & Gone meets and exceeds its lofty expectations. Considering how great these two series are separately, it's saying something to have such a great opener to their epic crossover. The worlds are fully integrated by the end of this first chapter and I am so excited to see what kinds of terrors await in the rest of the story.

This comic makes H.P. Lovecraft look like Ash Williams mixed with John Constantine.  It introduces a world that I very much want to see explored further with monsters of all shapes and sizes and intriguing characters with their own secrets and agendas.  This is an impressive debut issue.

Malevolents is the scariest comic I've read all year. I made the mistake of checking this book out right before going to bed. Don't do that if you want to get any sleep whatsoever. This is the kind of comic that will have you checking the locks on your doors and windows, just to make sure that everything is sealed up tight. Of course, that might not save you in the end...especially if you start hearing the hollow click click of his tongue.

Manor Black is tailor made for fans of Harrow County and The Sixth Gun. That makes sense, of course, because those books are made by the same creative team. This serves as a spiritual successor, particularly to Harrow County, with a similar look and feel. Most of all, it delivers some of my favorite kinds of horror. It's the kind that seeps into your skin, making you uncomfortable to turn the page, but forcing you to go on.

Manor Black is a fascinating and chilling comic. This is a gripping read that will grab you and never let go. All the players are orbiting one another and it's only a matter of time before they come together in a big, bad way. This is awesome.

Mariachi has a damn good opening issue.  It grabs you from page one and keeps your attention throughout.  It does this with only three characters " four if you count a particularly menacing scorpion.  The comic builds to an incredible showdown between the Mariachi and the coyote that raises the title character to all new levels of badassery.  I cannot wait to see more.

Martian Manhunter is like True Detective meets Cronenberg's The Fly. It could have been a satisfying crime story on its own. Adding in heaping helpings of body horror, alien carnage, and pure unbridled terror makes it a must read.

I will admit that I didn't really "get" Martian Manhunter before. He is like a weirder looking Superman with a few extra powers. This series redefines the character, allowing me to see him with a new set of eyes and really appreciate what he's gone through. The fact that it's through the lens of the horror genre with some of the most unsettling visuals on the stands today is a bonus. It's kind of crazy to think that some of the scariest horror out there right now is coming from a book about a green, Oreo-loving alien.

Martian Manhunter shows the character at his lowest moment as we enter the halfway point of this series. We can hope that writer Steve Orlando will build him up again with the second half, but after all the tragedy J'onn has been through and the menacing obstacle standing in his way, I'm not so sure that will happen. This book is an emotional powerhouse.

J'onn J'onzz is facing his toughest challenge of his life and it's not yet over. He's fought through his own failures and relived the horrifying consequences of his actions. That's fueled a fire within him to take down a monster, but will it be enough? That's the question we face as we head into the conclusion of this amazing maxi-series.

Monster Motors is the kind of fun, creative story that comics were made for. It's silly and easy for kids to pick up while also being smart enough for adults. This needs to be an ongoing title. I would gladly read about the monthly adventures of mechanic Vic Frankenstein in Transylvania as he battles monster cars. Wouldn't you?

To say that Monster Motors is a fun comic is an understatement. It's the kind of comic you'll read with a smile on your face from page one. It's an intelligently written comic that will resonate with all ages. Lynch expands on the mythology first seen in the original one-shot and seamlessly continues the story right where he left off. The existence of even more monster motors opens the door for what I hope will be many more stories, if for nothing else than to see what other pun-filled car names Lynch can come up with.

In previous reviews for Monster Motors comics I've said that this comic should be a Saturday morning TV show and a line of Hot Wheels toys.  I still want those things, but for now, I'd settle for an ongoing series.  There is so much to love about this book.  It's the kind of comic that you can read with a smile on your face.  It's one that you'll want to share because of how fun it is.  Each of the characters is unique and provides a suitable homage to the classic monsters that inspired them.  Seriously, read this comic.

Morte cuts deep. It is a powerful comic that presents a new spin on the last man on earth. It will frighten you and break your heart at the same time. This is an incredible example of what the horror genre is capable of.

There's a lot to take in during the first half of Mountainhead #1, then the series takes a sudden twist that changes everything. This really elevates the overall story and pulls you in even deeper. It also creates a fascinating character study with Abraham as his world is turned upside down. What is abundantly clear is how rock solid this debut is. The creative team is firing on all cylinders, delivering a pitch-perfect comic. It's shrouded in mystery and intrigue and I can't wait to see what happens next.

Mountainhead is chock full of unsettling terror. It's a gripping read that's one part Stephen King, one part David Lynch. You'd think the appearance of a young boy thought dead for years would be the weirdest thing to happen in this town, but you'd be wrong.

The only downside to Mountainhead #4 is that Abraham's adopted father feels like he has fallen along the wayside. He is a major factor in the beginning of the series, but is less of a threat now. We have one more chapter to go so we'll see how writer John Lees ties all this together in a bit. What is clear is that Mountainhead is unlike anything on the stands today. It's pure terror, like Twin Peaks through the lens of Junji Ito.

Mountainhead is scary on so many levels. It has elements of cosmic and body horror mixed with some family drama and a solid thriller for a perfect combination. More importantly, it will keep you guessing until the very end. It uses the comic book medium to effectively tell a story unlike any other. This comic is awesome.

Murder Falcon is pure fun from beginning to end. It had me with the premise alone and then Johnson takes it to new heights with his amazing artwork and powerful storytelling. This comic has everything I could ever want from a story, from giant monsters and a kick-ass hero to compelling character development and good old-fashioned metal.

Murder Falcon is a damn near perfect comic. No, I'm going to change that. It's definitely a perfect comic. It has everything you'd want from a book from awesome action, jaw-dropping artwork, and compelling characters. It's all powered by metal, so throw up the horns and read the hell out of this comic.

The only negative thing I can say about Murder Falcon is that I just found out there are only two issues left. I would read this series forever, so I'm bummed that it's ending. In any case, it looks like we're setting up for some impressive and explosive finale. You might pick up Murder Falcon for the crazy monsters and impressive artwork. You'll get hooked with the dynamite storytelling, incredible character work, and the exploration of our connection to music. This book is awesome.

Murder Falcon is awesome. It's bursting at the seams with intense action, incredible artwork, and some of the most compelling character stories I've seen in recent memory. Throw up the devil horns and dig into this book. You will not be disappointed.

Murder Falcon is not just one of my favorite comics of the year, it's one of my favorite comics ever. This book works on so many levels. Yes, it's an awesome monster story with some amazing visuals, but what will have you coming back again and again " and what will leave you in tears " is Jake's journey. It's absolutely perfect. Murder Falcon is a comic that is made for everyone. It doesn't matter if you like metal or monsters. If you're a human being, you will love Murder Falcon.

Oxymoron: The Loveliest Nightmare is filled with a sense of foreboding from page one. Granted, that page also includes a man with a gaping bullet wound in his forehead. It's hard to believe that things only get worse for this city from there. Oxymoron's reign of terror is brutal and absolutely insane. This is what chaotic evil looks like if left unchecked...and it's just getting started.

Oxymoron: The Loveliest Nightmare is an expertly written and beautifully drawn book that will scare you to your core. You can see a major influence from Se7en in the book, but taken to super villain proportions. Co-writer John Lees promises that the second half of the series is where "things get REALLY messed up!" I cannot imagine how he's going to top the events of this issue, but I am definitely looking forward to it.

Oxymoron: The Loveliest Nightmare is most definitely a book for mature audiences.  The lengths that this character goes are extreme.  The end of this issue will shock you to your very core.  You'll wonder what just happened.  You won't believe it at first.  They didn't really do that, did they?  There's only one issue left and I have no idea how the creators are going to top themselves, but I cannot wait to find out. 

Oxymoron: The Loveliest Nightmare is a brutal yet thought-provoking look at the relationship between a hero and a villain and what makes up each side of that coin.  It pulls no punches with its actions, nor does it apologize for them.  The creative team has pushed the story elements to the limits and then some, offering a pulse-pounding read that you cannot put down.  This will be a book that you will read in one sitting once it's collected in a trade paperback. 

I might say I'm biased, as anything to do with Penny Dreadful I will adore, but throwing in ancient Egypt as well? You have me hook, line and sinker. The story leaves us begging for the next installment. They have awoken an ancient beast that the Duke wishes to control to summon the dark father himself. Will they destroy the world or each other? I need to know. Like now.

Pestilence: A Story of Satan ups the ante considerably from the first series. This was already an epic story with horrors big and small. Writer Frank Tieri is taking it to the next level here and he's pulling no punches.

Pestilence: A Story of Satan ups the ante with this issue, getting even darker and more horrifying. Writer Frank Tieri takes this story to new heights with Exorcist-level scares. This is a horror comic that scratches nearly every itch with insane blood and gore, zombies, and the Dark Lord himself. It's like horror bingo and it's a clearly a winner.

Pestilence: A Story of Satan is poised to end with the next issue. I can't imagine how this harrowing tale will wrap up. Writer Frank Tieri has taken an already terrifying tale to new heights with this chapter and the mini-series as a whole. Pestilence took a new, undead look at the bubonic plague. Its follow up has brought in the biggest bad there is and will shake you to the core. This is grade A horror.

The slow burn of Plunge boils over by the end of this issue, as writer Joe Hill takes us deep into the lands of terror. Since we've been pulled along so far, we can't look away as things get more and more dire for the salvagers. This issue is where the book has really hit its stride and it's paying off in a glorious and terrifying manner.

Just when you think you can't take it anymore, Plunge dives deeper (no pun intended), leaning into the terror and ratcheting it up considerably. This is how you build up to a final issue. I cannot wait to see how this book wraps up and I have no idea how these characters will possibly get out of this...or if they even will at all. That's some great horror right there.

Redfork works on several levels. It's a story of hope in a desolate small town. It's a story of redemption. It's a gripping body-horror tale. It's all of these things and more. This is a solid small town horror comic that will grab you from the very beginning and doesn't let up to the end.

Over the past few years we've seen various monsters get their day in the sun.  Zombies, werewolves, and vampires have all had time to shine.  Now it's the witches' turn.  Redlands puts them squarely on the top of the food chain.  This is an impressive, terrifying comic that will grab you from page one and never let go.  It is brilliantly paced with non-stop scares.  Do yourself a favor and buy this book.

Redlands is like a supernatural True Detective with a tinge of Silence of the Lambs thrown in. It works as a solid cop drama and is only intensified by the occult abilities of the three main characters. This is a horror comic to watch.

Revival is a celebration of life and death. It's a story about loss and how it affects the people left behind. The characters are very real, which makes the book so damn effective. I would compare it to Locke & Key in this manner, especially with how well it wraps everything up. You're not left hanging or wondering what happened to this character or that arc. It's an awesome ending.

The first issue of RoboCop has set the stage for a number of cool plot lines.  The title character is just as tough as I remember when seeing the original film as a kid.  New and old fans will enjoy this comic.  This is the sequel we all wanted but never got.

Roche Limit: Clandestiny is a really interesting turn for the story, the kind that makes you want to know more right away.  It's a departure from the cold, cool tone of the first series, but not in a bad way at all.  Instead, it's a slight jump to a different sub-genre of science fiction, one filled with just as much dread and hopelessness.  This is not the bright, shiny future we were promised.  Humanity has failed.  The future sucks and we have to deal with it.

Roche Limit: Clandestiny takes survival sci-fi horror to a new level.  It's like Dead Space mixed with Alien, with a bit of Blade Runner thrown in.  These soldiers are facing true terror and most likely their own deaths.  What little hope they have rests in an angry android sick of mankind and its many flaws.  There are still mysteries all over this space colony and I cannot wait to find out more.

This is a dynamite first issue that gives you a great quick primer on a brand new universe. There's no time wasted on exposition or character backgrounds. Mercado gets right into the meat of the story and doesn't look back. Rocket Salvage has the makings of a great sci-fi adventure.

Romulus has a perfect opening issue.  It seamlessly introduces you to this world and the main character in a way that makes it feel like you've seen them for years.  The puppet masters are still hidden, but I'm sure they won't be for long with Ashlar out there.  This definitely lives up to the description of "Buffy vs. the Illuminati."

There are still many unanswered questions in Rumble, but this was one helluva debut issue. The action is exciting. The characters are fun and a little weird. The monsters are terrifying. This is a darker and slightly humorous take on the fantasy action / adventure story. Arcudi and Harren make it their own and do a tremendous job with it.

Samurai Slasher: Late Fees expertly blends horror and nostalgia to tell a powerful story that will stay with you for some time. It's a comic with both terror and heart that stretches the boundaries for what the genre can do. This is next level stuff.

Finding humanity at the farthest reaches of space makes for a rather compelling science-fiction tale.

The pieces come together as the past and the present collide. Where does that leave this young orphan boy caught up in the life of a vigilante?

Tempers flare as we approach the finale to this incredible series set within the Black Hammer Universe.

Is this the best Black Hammer comic yet? It takes the tropes of Batman and Robin and builds something entirely new and so very fascinating as this mini-series comes to an amazing conclusion.

I've never done acid, but if I could get a guarantee that the trip would be half as interesting as Space Riders, I would be tripping balls right now.  The comic feels like a long lost tome that has been locked away for decades, only resurfacing now that the world is ready for it.  It's trippy.  It's fun.  It's absolutely insane.  Damn, is it good.

This opening story is dedicated to the creators of Swamp Thing, Len Wein and Bernie Wrightson, both of whom passed away last year. The second half of this oversized issue contains one of the last stories Wein created for Swamp Thing for a new mini-series launch. The completed artwork by Kelly Jones and colorist Michelle Madsen is presented without lettering. It's followed by Wein's actual script. Even without text, it is an interesting comic to read through and it's a nice addition to this book. It's unfortunate that we won't see this play out, but it's a great tribute to the late, great Wein and his amazing work.

The Belfry is the terror and intrigue I had hoped to get from Lost.  It delivers tension-filled scares that will stay with you long after you put the book down.  It's horror that will get under your skin in the most chilling ways possible.  Do not miss this comic.

Each story could stand on its own as a graphic novella, yet collected here they join together like some kind of horror Voltron, becoming stronger as you read them one after another. There is not a bad tale in this book. They're all terrifying and will shake you to your core. This is some of the scariest stuff I've read in months.

The Fade Out cements Brubaker and Phillips in the noir genre with the likes of Dashiell Hammett and Raymond Chandler.  This first issue gives you everything you need to fall head first into this world of murder, mystery, and intrigue and will leave you wanting more.

The Goon: Once Upon a Hard Time is a tale of revenge that puts the Taken movies to shame. It's a cold and callous take on vengeance. You have a man that has been pushed to the breaking point. You almost feel sorry for the witches because there is little they can do to stop the Goon at this point. He's coming for them and it's going to get bloody.

The Humans is a balls-out (literally...there are quite a few ape penises in these pages), drug-fueled, psychedelic ride through exploitation-era cinema. The book has an old school look to it, like it was just discovered in the most awesome time capsule ever. Plus, where else are you going to find the sound effects Butt, Schwing, and my personal favorite "KA-FUCKIN-BOOM"?

The Nice House on the Lake is an amazing modern day horror story. It quickly introduces the characters and this world before setting them all on fire. We're constantly on edge through each page, creating one of the best horror reading experiences in recent memory. This is most definitely a comic to watch. Do not miss this.

The Realm has a stunning debut issue. It's a perfect introduction that pulls you in from page one. This is an awesome blend of fantasy and dystopia. It's The Walking Dead meets East of West with a dash of Lord of the Rings thrown in.

The Replacer will break your heart. It's a comic that everyone can relate to, even if you haven't experienced something like this. Writer Zac Thompson frames a family tragedy through the eyes of a young boy. There's a deep, personal feel to this story. While you might guess as to whether or not the demon exists, part of you will pray that it's real so that there's some semblance of hope that Marcus' father can come out of this. Sometimes real life is scarier than the supernatural.

The Sandman Universe is a welcome return to this world. It's an impressive collaborative effort and a fantastic way to introduce a number of new series. I'm more excited about this continuation than most of the relaunches and reboots that have popped up in recent years. It accomplished this with a single, solid issue that weaved through each area calmly and efficiently. At the bottom line, it's just great storytelling. That sums up Sandman as a whole and it certainly applies here too.

The Squidder is Ben Templesmith at his best.  This is what he can do when he's given free rein to create whatever he wants.  He's created a world that has lost all hope and doesn't even realize it anymore.  It's one that is ruled over by a group of squids, worshipped by some, hated by others, and ignored by everyone else.

Tommy Gun Wizards perfectly mixes genres to create something greater than the sum of its parts. It's not just the Untouchables fighting magic. That might be enough to get you in the door, but you'll stay for the great character work, incredible artwork, and shocking twists and turns. This book is something special.

Transformers / Ghostbusters delivers a great mix of action, comedy, and horror, all blended together in a big bowl of nostalgia. It's a crossover 35 years in the making and it's definitely worth the wait. We're just getting started too, so I can't wait to see what else this mini-series has in store for us.

You will want to clean your hands immediately after reading Unearth. It's an awesome mix of pandemic horror with otherworldly monsters. It's like Outbreak meets Aliens. We're only one issue in and I'm already terrified.

Vampire Hunter D: Message from Mars is off to a tremendous start.  Any fan of the anime film will love this book.  While it gets extra points for nostalgia, it stands on its own with a solid story and gorgeous artwork.  This is based on a previously untranslated and unpublished short story from creator Hideyuki Kikuchi, and I hope to see may more adaptations of D's adventures make their way to the comic book medium.

Writers Greg and Meg Smallwood have quickly established Vampironica as a unique, terrifying vampire tale. Archie Comics has another horror hit on their hands here. It is tonally and visually different than the other titles under the Archie Horror umbrella, yet with the same level of quality.

Vampironica builds on the success of other Archie Horror titles like Sabrina and Afterlife with Archie. It takes characters we've known and loved for decades and puts them in dire circumstances that can chill you to the bone. I honestly wish more publishers took chances like this, as it's resulting in some top tier horror comics. You may know Veronica from Riverdale on The CW, but you've never seen her like this.

We Can Never Go Home is like a teenage version of Bonnie and Clyde.  Duncan has jumped into this new life of crime with full force, reveling in this chaos his life has become.  He was born for something like this and nothing can stand in his way.  It's almost like he's been planning this and everything is falling into place for him.

Welcome Back is off to a great start with an impressive first issue.  You're fully immersed in this world from the get-go.  Writer Christopher Sebela outlines what could be a complicated concept in a very quick and easy to understand way that is not bogged down by boring exposition.  Instead of telling, he shows thanks to Sawyer's artwork, and it really pays off.  This issue leaves us with a great cliffhanger that only serves to reinforce the stellar ideas put forth in this story.

Wonder Woman: Dead Earth is an incredible ride through a dystopian DC Universe. It's an action-horror comic like no other, as Daniel Warren Johnson is an absolute master. The levels of terror are matched with heart to create a riveting and powerful book that will scare you one moment and bring a tear to your eye the next.

Milo's father lives up to his role as the father figure, delivering an array of dad jokes with his punches and kicks. While his opponent is groaning over a wicked pun, he takes them out with a quick karate chop. He also has one of the most impressive finishing moves in martial arts.Wrapped Up really is fun for all ages. It's packed with comedy that will be enjoyed by kids and adults alike. Plus, this issue has a mummy fighting a bunch of ninjas while thinking about pizza. What more could you want from a comic book? I'm pretty sure that was the one thing missing from Watchmen.

Wrapped Up is hands down one of the most fun comics on the stands today. The inclusion of monsters is an added benefit. The jokes work for kids and adults, so it's definitely something you can read with your children and not be bored out of your mind with. It's hilarious and gorgeous. Just read it and enjoy.

Wrapped Up is the pure essence of fun. It's the perfect way to share mummies and assorted monsters with your children. The comic doesn't dumb down the material or handle it with kid gloves. Instead, it dives right into the laughs and crazy stuff that can happen when your best friend is a disheveled wizard. This is a book that adults should read too, as it speaks to the inner child in all of us. If you ever got up early on a Saturday morning to watch cartoons, you need Wrapped Up in your life.

Gilad Anni-Padda is driven by sheer determination.  He's faced down foes great and small across countless lifetimes.  Now it's personal as a demon has taken his son away from him and he will stop at nothing to get him back.  My only disappointment with this book is that this is the penultimate issue.  I presume this means that Gilad will be returning to earth to continue his service as the Eternal Warrior, but I'm going to miss this amazing tale.  It shows the lengths a man will go through for family and honor.  This character is a true hero that can stand toe-to-toe with the legends of the industry.  He can have complete happiness for all eternity if he just stays down, but he can't bring himself to do that and let others suffer.

Wytches has a never-ending sense of tension. It grabs you from page one and never lets go. I'm hooked. I also can't read this in the dark. It delivers true scares in a way that will stick with you long after you've finished the comic.

Wytches delivers very real terror.  This is not a book with cheap jump scares or cannon fodder kills.  It's scary in the truest sense of the word, shaking you right to your very core.  It works on multiple levels, touching on the horrors of parenthood, family, and good old fashioned monsters.  Plus, this is just the end of the first story arc.  There's another one on the way.  Pledged is pledged.

Wytches: Bad Egg is an incredible comic. It's a reminder of how great Wytches is and how much I missed it. There's another arc in the works and it can't come soon enough. This is Stephen King-quality horror that will stay with you long after you've finished it. Read this one with the lights on.

Babyteeth is off to a helluva start. Cates writes characters that feel like actual people you've known all your life, then puts them into horrifying situations that would make any normal person break down. Coupled with Brown's artwork and Englert's colors, this is set to be an incredible series. If this is how the world ends, it's just beginning.

Babyteeth is damn good. It has been a consistently solid read since the first page of the first issue and shows no sign of stopping. This poor young girl is about to get wrapped up in pure evil and all we can do is watch. This issue builds to a monumental final page that ups the ante considerably.

Every issue of Babyteeth has pulled me in deeper and deeper and this one is no exception. It is a riveting story with real, relatable characters. This is what makes for powerful, pulse-pounding horror. It looks like it's just getting started and I cannot wait to see where it goes next.

This is the end of the first arc of Babyteeth. It will be the final chapter in the first trade paperback. If this is where the comic is starting, I cannot wait to see where it goes next. The creators have set up a compelling, unique story that grabs you from the jump with such a brilliant premise. What if a teenage girl gave birth to the Antichrist? We know that all that follows is bad news, but we don't know how we get there. That journey is full of possibilities and it's what is making Babyteeth one of the best comics of the year.

Babyteeth always leaves me wanting more. Each issue ends and I cannot wait for the next. It's a gripping read that is a testament to great storytelling. Just buy this book, OK? You will thank me later.

Babyteeth feels like it's moving at a breakneck pace now. We got through the introduction of the characters and the situation they're in. Now we're quickly flying forward and not missing a beat. This is hands down one of the best comics on the stands today.

This is the issue of Babyteeth that is not to be missed. Granted, every issue has been pretty great and you should be reading it if you like awesome comics. I mean that it is integral to the story, as there are a ton of revelations and some major movements in the plot. It's amazing to watch as characters start out one way and then slowly evolve into the complete opposite, flipping from a helpful ally to a horrifying enemy. This right here is one of the best single issues in recent memory. Babyteeth is firing on all cylinders with compelling characters and brilliant artwork. Damn, this is good.

Family is what elevates Babyteeth, making it such a tense and exciting comic every month. This shouldn't come as a surprise, as it's a definite strength of writer Donny Cates (see also Redneck and God Country). This character-driven drama is amplified by the over-the-top and relentless action these people find themselves in. I am continually amazed at the level of quality this comic displays. This is a top-tier book that everyone should be reading, horror fan or not. It's just so friggin' good.

Babyteeth's high level of quality is rivaled by few in horror comics outside of maybe Harrow County. The characters are so well defined and relatable, so seeing them go through such terrifying situations is riveting. Everyone should be reading this comic, not just horror fans.

Seriously guys, just go buy this comic. Buy it every month because Babyteeth is consistently one of the best comics out there. Where else are you going to read about a young girl and her Anti-Christ baby trapped in a hell dimension? You're not going to find that in Oprah's book club.

Babyteeth has been nothing short of incredible since it started. This issue does the impossible and takes it to even new heights. I seriously cannot believe how great this comic is and it's only getting better with each new chapter. Writer Donny Cates packs this book with so much heart and incredible character moments that propel it forward at a breakneck pace. We're so invested in Sadie's life and in the lives of those around her that we can make a jump to a place like the Red Realm without even batting an eye.

It can be tough to do such a text heavy issue, but the creative team pulls it off in a spectacular fashion. There is not a boring moment in this book, as I was glued to the page every step of the way. This is an incredible story that has some crazy twists and turns in this chapter. It builds to an impressive, jaw-dropping cliffhanger and I cannot wait for more. I don't know how many ways to tell you that Babyteeth is one of the best comics on the stands today. It seamlessly blends horror, comedy, drama, and more into this amazing package. Buy this book with confidence.

Babyteeth left me with my jaw on the floor with this issue. I cannot wait to see what comes next in this amazing series. It sets such a high bar in scares because of the time the creative team took to develop the characters. I read this book with anticipation and trepidation, as I'm worrying what will happen to Sadie and her loved ones. This poor girl just wants to raise her kid. Is it her fault that he's the Anti-Christ?

You know the story about the apocalypse, right? Four horsemen riding to destroy the world and all that? Well, Babyteeth puts that to shame. It changes the very idea of the Antichrist by going bigger and badder. That, coupled with the terrific character work, has made the wait for these last four issues of Babyteeth worth it. With the stage set, I can't wait to see how this story wraps up. I'm prepared for fire and brimstone, but I'm sure there will be some surprises along the way.

Evolution is Cronenberg-level horror. It's creepy and disturbing and I can't wait to see where it's going. When it was first announced, I said that it was my most anticipated comic of the year. I'm happy to say that it paid off in spades. Do yourself a favor and read this book.

Evolution is next-level body horror. It's creepy and unsettling, which are two fantastic qualities for a horror comic. Instead of dwelling only on the gross-out moments, it ascends to a higher level of storytelling with relatable characters placed in horrific situations. It excels on all fronts.

Evolution was already a solid body horror comic. This issue further ties you to the characters, making them more interesting and relatable. I've become emotionally invested in each of their stories, which has pulled me in completely. This is a gripping read.

Evolution has solidified its place as a top-tier horror comic that will get under your skin. There are aspects of it that send a shiver up my spine just thinking about. Infurnari's artwork strikes a great tone filled with dread that permeates through every single page. The writing dream team of James Asmus, Joseph Keatinge, Christopher Sebela, and Joshua Williamson has crafted something truly terrifying here.

Evolution is one of the most unsettling comics on the stands today. It keeps the tension high with every page turn. It looks like we're going to get some answers as to just what the heck is going on, which is a plus. As it stands, this is a riveting story and a white knuckled read.

This uneasy feeling is what makes Evolution such a great read. I found myself shifting uncomfortably in my chair as I was going through this issue, turning the pages with equal parts anticipation and trepidation. I'm terrified by what might come next and that's what makes a truly fantastic horror comic.

I could spend hours singing the praises of Absolute Carnage and still wouldn't get to them all. This book is absolute dream for any Venom or Carnage fan. If you haven't been following Venom since its relaunch, shame on you, but this is a great way to jump in and quickly get up to speed. Absolute Carnage is hands down the best horror I've seen in super hero comics.

Absolute Carnage is nothing short of terrifying. It's a pulse-pounding thrill ride of an adventure through the lens of pure, unbridled horror. This book will grab hold of you from the very first page. There were times I had to remember to breathe as I was so enthralled with this book. This is top tier stuff.

Absolute Carnage has been a roller coaster of terror. We're not strapped in with a secure harness; we're holding on for dear life and our grip is loosening with each twist and turn, ready to throw us into the abyss. The tail end of this issue provides a glimmer of hope with one of the best cliffhanger endings in recent memory. You know that moment in Evil Dead when Ash picks up the chainsaw? That's the feeling I got at the end of Absolute Carnage #3. We're in for some awesome shit.

Absolute Carnage has quickly become a standout Marvel Comics event and not just because it's full of frightening horror. It is an incredible story full of jaw-dropping moments, awesome artwork, and a villain that would scare even the fiercest killers of the horror genre. It also happens to redefine and elevate Venom to levels heretofore unseen. People will be speaking about this character in the same breath as Spider-Man, Iron Man, and Captain America by the time this series is through.

Absolute Carnage is epic and incredible. Venom's stock was already on the rise in the Marvel Universe and now it's through the roof. You might wonder how this can possibly be topped. Fortunately, we're given a glimpse at the terror on its way and I can't wait to see how writer Donny Cates tackles this next obstacle, not to mention Eddie's continued growth as a character and as a father.

Plastic is a twisted, violent ride of a comic. It harkens back to early Tarantino with quick wit and tons of blood. Instead of someone like Michael Madsen or Uma Thurman, you've got a serial killer and his sex doll. The artwork perfectly captures this mix of action, horror, and dark humor.  This is one of the most impressive first issues of the year.

You've seen revenge stories, some more brutal than others. Plastic is perhaps the most demented, twisted revenge story to date. It's bloody, creepy, and filled with dark humor making it a fun read that is well worth your time.

Plastic is easily one of the best books on the stands right now. It's fun, over-the-top, and excessively violent. It's Justified meets Misery. Edwyn is completely unique and so far out there, but he exhibits traits that are familiar to all of us. He's just a fool in love...a serial killing, maniacial, crazy fool in love.

Plastic is the most inventive and enjoyable serial killer story in years. Edwyn finds new and increasingly crazy ways to kill people all in an effort to track down his sweet Virginia.  He's clearly deranged and needs some professional help.  Is it wrong that I want him to get that help after he's brutally murdered these bad guys?  From the looks of things, Plastic is setting up for an incredible finale and I can't wait.

Plastic is an absolute blast. It has it all. You've got action, romance, drama, comedy, and a whole lot of death and carnage. If you have even the slightest interest in any of those genres, you will enjoy this comic. It's the humorous cousin to Nailbiter. I'd actually love to see Edwyn visit the town of Buckaroo, as he would fit right in.

I am so excited for Cult Classic to expand into more stories. From the looks of Creature Feature, the creative team is going big. This is some top notch sci-fi horror that's just getting started. It's like Godzilla meets Happy Days through the lens of Junji Ito.

Cult Classic: Creature Feature is a solid and terrifying horror comic with a pinch of quirky humor. It's a tense read that will have you afraid to turn the page, but longing to do so to see where this story goes next. The book is filled with solid character development that only amplifies the scares. Do not miss this comic.

Cult Classic: Creature Feature is a horror fan's delight. You'll invest time with characters before seeing them go through hell with no guarantee of survival. Every time you think you know where it's going, the creative team pulls the rug out from under you and scares the crap out of you. That's some solid spooky storytelling right there.

We had a tremendous amount of build-up for Cult Classic: Creature Feature filled with real characters and unsettling monsters. The ending feels a little abrupt and it's far from a nice and tidy happy one. Writer Eliot Rahal leaves us begging for more from this world and these characters, however I have to wonder what else the town of Whisper can endure after this. Cult Classic: Creature Feature is unsettling, otherworldly, and all kinds of scary. Most importantly, it's unpredictable and truly unique. There are no other horror comics like this one. It will keep you guessing until the very end.

Farmhand is a quirky yet unsettling comic. It's filled with little gags and fun that will bring a smile to your face...before sending a shiver up your spine with horrific imagery. I'm going to pretend it's set in the same world as Chew, the series Guillory co-created and illustrated, as the two work well together. It's safe to say if you liked Chew, you'll love Farmhand.

Farmhand is laying the groundwork for a big story. There are a lot of moving pieces here and it moves at a mile a minute. The mix of comedy and horror keeps you on your toes, as you won't know what to expect. Will you be met with a smile or a bloody knife? The odds are about even for each. It's clear there's a lot more at work at the Jenkins Farm and we're just scratching the surface.

Farmhand strikes a great balance between horror and comedy, but this chapter leans a lot more heavily into the spooky side. It pulls back the curtain to show you just how far this kooky idea can go and it's some pretty crazy stuff. This issue wraps up the first arc and it does so with a bang. If you're not reading Farmhand, now is the time to dive in and catch up because things are going to get nuts.

Farmhand is so perfectly weird. It's filled with the best kinds of dark humor with horror weaved into every element of the story. With the basics of this world established in the first arc, it's off to the races with the second one. Things are only getting crazier and I can't wait to see how they all play out.

At this point we've accepted the fact that a magic seed can replicate human body parts. That's the entry level setup for Farmhand. As the series continues, this has spiraled out into a quirky and creepy tale full of conspiracy, family drama, and good old-fashioned horror. There's an Invasion of the Body Snatchers vibe at times and it's unclear who Jenkins could trust. The kicker is that they don't realize that yet. Man, I can't wait for more from this series.

As mentioned earlier, there is a whopper of a cliffhanger for Farmhand #10. It's the kind of ending that will make you want to go back and re-read everything that came before to look for clues. It's also the type that will have you clamoring for more. Unfortunately, we have to wait until November before we see this story continue. If this issue is any indication, it will definitely be worth the wait.

Farmhand #11 is bookended by flashbacks, presumably from the same day in the past. They show two different perspectives of a time when Jed was just starting out, before his company grew to the size and scale of what we see now and before all of it began to topple. Forces are working against this man and his family and things are certainly going to get worse before they get better. Farmhand enters its third arc with a shovel to dig up all kinds of buried secrets and untold horrors awaiting.

The only downside to Farmhand #15 is that this is the last issue for a little while, as the book is going on hiatus for the creative team to catch up and take a well-deserved break. It's also in development as a TV show that I cannot wait to see. In any case, Farmhand is a creepy comic from start to finish that took the idea of a seed that can regrow limbs and turned it into an unsettling journey through family, betrayal, and pure unbridled terror. In short: It's awesome.

Harrow County is friggin' scary.  It's a story that seeps into your very being, bringing the type of fear and tension that movies need jump scares and pumping soundtracks to come close to pulling off.  Here's the kicker though: It's only the first issue.  Cullen Bunn and Tyler Crook are just getting started and they've already made one of the best horror comics of the year.

Harrow County is the kind of horror that gets right into your bones.  This was a rather tame issue compared to some of the others in the series to date, but it is no less scary.  That aforementioned panel is something that will stay with me for a while, haunting me whenever I close my eyes.  I get chills just thinking about it.

Harrow County is a pitch perfect horror comic. Everything about it just clicks between the art, the colors, the writing, the dialogue, the characters. While on the surface, you have two young women walking through the creepy woods at night, that's the least scary thing about the book. It delivers terror on multiple levels and leaves you begging for more.

Harrow County delivers a consistent level of quality horror. The foreboding tone is constant. Scenes with happy moments are punctuated by an unshakable feeling of dread, like you're waiting for the other shoe to drop.

Few comics are as consistently well done as Harrow County. This is a riveting book that pulls you in hook, line, and sinker. It features an epic battle of good against evil that's fought not with capes and tights, but with powerful character-driven story and some of the best artwork in the industry. This should be required reading for all horror fans.

Harrow County never disappoints. It's such a solid read and continues to be one of the best horror comics on the stands today. Emmy's journey is a wild ride with more than its fair share of shadows. I just hope this poor girl can make it out unscathed.

Harrow County has become a gold standard for horror comics. With news that the series will be ending soon, I can only imagine what writer Cullen Bunn has in store for a finale. If the story up until now is any indication, we're in for a treat.

As Harrow County nears its end, the forces of good and evil are preparing for a final battle. This is the lead up to that climactic showdown. Writer Cullen Bunn has packed it with an intense feeling of dread. A dark cloud hangs over this town and the sun may never shine on it again. I almost don't know what else to say about it at this point because this is a comic everyone should be reading. It excels on all fronts.

We've got one issue left of Harrow County. While I'm sad to see it go, the finale looks like an amazing ride, so I can't wait to see how it wraps up. I'm eagerly awaiting the last issue with bated breath and clenched fists. Seriously, just read this book and thank me later.

I'm sad to see it end, but I could not have asked for a better final issue. Writer Cullen Bunn has led us to a fantastic ending that is so very fitting. It shows incredible character development, as Emmy has gone through one helluva journey. While there are certainly possibilities to return to Harrow County to feature more of the strange monsters and odd things that have happened there over the years, it's unnecessary. We have a great story here that stands on its own with a beginning, middle, and an end that will delight any reader.

While it's probably frightening to live in a place like this, there is a certain level of wonder that comes from it, like anything can happen here if you just have a little faith. This mix of horror and adventure is what makes Harrow County special.

Something is Killing the Children is a top-notch horror comic. It's a gripping read full of dread that will shake you to the core. I'm already hooked and we're only one issue in. If this first chapter is any indication, we're in for a wild ride.

Something is Killing the Children is as unsettling as it is poignant. This town has been shaken to its core by these murders. They're desperate for answers and none are coming except for this strange girl who claims she can stop all this if everyone just gets out of her way. When you're trying to make sense of something so tragic, can you lose a bit of your sanity for it to stop?

Something is Killing the Children is off to a spectacular start. It's a moody, tension-filled comic that has paid off incredibly well. Most of all, it's friggin' terrifying. This is a comic that will stay with you for some time. Yes, it has a literal monster that eats children, but that's just one level of the horror. It adds this additional layer around how loved ones and the community at large can be affected. Now that Pandora's Box has been opened and we see just how deep this rabbit hole is, I can't imagine what's in store for these characters and I cannot wait to find out.

Something is Killing the Children has cemented itself as one of the top horror comics on the stands today. I was on edge even with this more low-key issue. The creative team continues to build on what has come before, further developing the characters and expanding this world with all its terrors and monsters. I cannot wait to see what comes next.

Something is Killing the Children started out strong and has only gotten stronger as the series has continued. I am deeply entrenched with this story and all of its many possibilities. This is a horror action epic full of engaging characters, terrifying monsters, and raw emotion. It's incredible.

Add to that the mystery of the House of Slaughter and you've got an absolutely riveting comic. This book will pull you in and never let go. I have no earthly idea as to where it's going next and that's certainly part of the enjoyment.

Something is Killing the Children has been like a pot about to boil for a bit. This issue has the terror bubbling over and spilling everywhere. You can't get away from it. The scares envelope you as you struggle to hold on to some semblance of hope. All that awaits...is Slaughter. We must pray that's enough. This comic is so friggin' good.

Something is Killing the Children scares the crap out of me every single month and this issue is no different. It's like a horror roller coaster, full of monsters and death...and I want to ride again.

Something is Killing the Children will grab you and never let go. This is a riveting horror comic that has never let up since it started. It's only getting more tense and terrifying with each issue and this one is no different.

Something is Killing the Children maintains its high level of quality. It has never let up since the series began, delivering month after month of tense and frightening action, amazing artwork, and one incredible story. Every horror fan should be reading this book.

So much of Something is Killing the Children has been about trauma and closure. Once you go through one, you need the other to grow and move on. Archer's Peak has been rocked to its core and if it wasn't for Erica, its townsfolk would never get the closure they so desperately needed. They had to jump through some mental hoops to make sense of all the bloodshed and heartbreak, but they'll get through this thanks to her. That's some powerful stuff and it sets this book apart from the monster-hunting tales we've seen before.

You can read this issue, as well as the previous chapters of Sink for free by signing up to the official newsletter.  Go ahead.  Get in the van.

If you want to try out Sink, you can read the comic for free by signing up for the newsletter. I assure you, it's well worth it.

Sink shows that an anthology series can be done incredibly well with a very high level of quality. Writer John Lees shows his range with not only this issue, but the series as a whole.

Sink pulls no punches. This issue is horrifying in the truest sense of the word. The artwork will make you cringe. This woman's journey is an emotional roller coaster through blood and torment with the highest highs and the lowest lows. Plus, it deals with murderous clowns and there is nothing that's not terrifying about that phrase. This is required reading for all horror fans.

Sink shows its versatility with this issue, blending humor and horror into one seamless reading experience. Comedy and horror are very close together in the scheme of things with some similar elements in storytelling and timing. They're also very tough to do in comic book form. This is a perfect example of it done very well, although you should be warned that the humor is pretty dark. Odds are, if you're a horror fan, you're probably A-OK with that.

You never know what you're going to get with Sink because anything can happen in this crazy town. This two-issue arc has been nothing short of incredible, raising the bar on what this series is capable of. It's a testament to the talents of this creative team and how well they can work together to create one of the best comics I've read all year. Anyone can dig into these two issues, but fans that have been following Sink from the beginning will absolutely love them.

Sink is an unpredictable and always satisfying read. This is a comic that will keep you on your toes. Anything can happen in this town and it often ends in mutilation or death. Despite all the bloodshed and terror, two people have found love. That's pretty sweet. Years from now they're going to have one crazy-ass story to tell their grandchildren.

Between this first issue - which is priced at the absolutely insane cost of $1.00 - and the previous trade paperback (also valued priced at only $9.99), this is an effective way to launch a series. You'll become instantly engulfed within this world and be dying to learn more. Unlike Eddie, you won't have the luxury of bouncing right back. If you ever watched movies like The Maltese Falcon or just about anything starring Edward G. Robinson and thought they'd be better with demons, The Damned is for you. This has a great pace, amazing artwork, and a dynamite story that makes it a must read.

The Damned has the makings of a sprawling crime / horror epic. It seamlessly weaves between aspects of both genres, taking normal gangster tropes and upping the ante with the supernatural twist. If it follows in the footsteps of the creative team's previous work, The Sixth Gun, then we're in for an incredible and extended ride. It's just so damn good.

Although one could argue the plot is reminiscent of a stereotypical gangster movie, The Damned has more than enough to pull you in.  Eddie alone is a character you can't help but watch, wondering what move he'll make and how he'll survive in a town filled with monsters.  With his signature scowl, I'm sure demons would hesitate before attacking him.  He has good intentions, but he's still a gangster, and who doesn't love a good gangster story?

The Damned just keeps getting better. It's impossible to predict, so it definitely keeps you on your toes. This issue in packed with content that greatly expands upon the series to date, taking it into some really interesting places. It's a crime story with a supernatural twist. What's not to love?

The Damned is the most fun you'll have with a dead body since Weekend at Bernie's. Morgan is a great addition to the cast and I hope to see more of him as the series continues. Writer Cullen Bunn has a talent for interesting and unpredictable stories and The Damned is no different. Anyone that's ever enjoyed a mobster movie should be reading this book every month.

Guys, I don't know what else to tell you about The Damned. If you're not reading it, you're missing out. This comic is a showcase of a creative team that's firing on all cylinders. They did it with The Sixth Gun and they're doing it here.

The Damned works as a great horror / gangster story, but what amplifies everything about it is the amazing cast. Writer Cullen Bunn pulls you in with these compelling characters. You can't help but get wrapped up in their lives.

The Immortal Hulk presents the character as a big green spirit of vengeance. His human form may perish, but every night the monster will rise up to see justice served. To compare it to DC Comics for a second, it's like if Solomon Grundy became the Spectre. This paints the Hulk in a more frightening light than ever before.

The Immortal Hulk reframes the green goliath from a rampaging monster to a methodical vigilante of vengeance. He stops short of murder here, but death would have been a better option for his victim than what was actually doled out.

The Immortal Hulk has been a gamma-infused monster-of-the-week comic so far and that's been fun. This reporter searching for Banner adds an overall arc to the series which could prove very interesting as she gets closer to her subject. There is a surprisingly large number of villains popping up with gamma ray abilities, so Banner's staying busy, even when he's trying to stay off the radar. This newer, darker version of the Hulk has been creepy and awesome to watch.

The Immortal Hulk cuts deep. It shows a vulnerable side to the Hulk that is scarier than any of the chaos he's caused to date. Writer Al Ewing strikes right at the heart of the character, shaking him to the core. Bruce Banner has been keeping a low profile, but the events of this issue will be hard to keep under wraps. This is a stunning character study that never fails to deliver.

The Immortal Hulk is an absolutely twisted comic that injects all kinds of horror right into the Marvel Universe. This issue raises it to new heights. It puts the character in a whole new light, showing him for the monster he can be and the tortured man that's forced to live with it. The Hulk is as terrifying as he is awesome.

The Immortal Hulk sets a high bar for horror in super hero comics. It shows how expertly the genre can be weaved into the world of capes and tights. This is simultaneously adding to a long-established character and scaring the crap out of me.

Immortal Hulk has brought a new dynamic to this classic character, setting him up as this warrior of vengeance, protecting our world from untold horrors waiting to invade. Judging from the revelations of this issue, we're just getting started and I could not be happier about that. This is breaking the Hulk down to his base components and rebuilding him in a new and fascinating way. It is a must read comic.

The Immortal Hulk continues to show why it's one of the best comics on the stands today. It can seamlessly bounce from a huge fight scene to a few moments of reflection while catapulting the plot forward and developing characters that have been around for decades. It is an impressive book that never disappoints. From the looks of things, it's only getting started.

The Immortal Hulk freaks me out in the best way. It's terrifically paced and scary through and through. You go through quiet and tense moments where you'll be nervous about turning the page and then you'll get all out monster-on-monster battles that are like smaller versions of Godzilla movies. This is everything I want from a comic and it is consistently one of the best books on the stands today. Damn, is it good.

Immortal Hulk never disappoints. It's an awesome comic that delivers on multiple fronts, blending super hero action with riveting drama all wrapped in some of the best artwork you'll see on the stands today. More importantly, it's reinvigorated a decades old character, delivering something truly new and different that will set the Hulk apart for years to come.

Immortal Hulk is horror at an epic scale. It's like the Universal monsters mixed with Godzilla fighting it out in radiation-fueled madness. It has all the awesome action of a blockbuster movie coupled with some of the most unsettling imagery on comic stands today. This book delivers on multiple fronts and never, ever disappoints.

This is just half of the terror in Immortal Hulk #24. There's a whole second half that takes a cosmic turn and really freaks me out. It's amazing to see the many varied ways that writer Al Ewing can scare the crap out of me in a single issue. After conquering this world, it seems he might have his sights set for the far reaches of space. Of course, that went really well the last time Hulk went out there, so what's the worst that could happen? Get ready for body horror in space!

I had heard news of what the next phase of Immortal Hulk would deal with, but I had no idea how or when we'd see it play a part. I was so enthralled by this issue that it hit me as a complete (and very welcome) surprise. I cannot wait to see what's next for this downright terrifying comic book as it continues to stretch the boundaries of what this medium can do and what horror means in the Marvel Universe.

Immortal Hulk is pure, unbridled terror. It's full of heart so the scares pack a much bigger punch. We're dealing with massive, cosmic horror through the lens of a super hero previously known primarily for smashing stuff. This is so much more and I love every part of it. This comic delivers on so many levels.

Just when I thought I had Immortal Hulk figured out, writer Al Ewing adds more twists and turns that take this series to frightening new heights. It's an impressive combination of pure, unbridled horror and traditional super hero battles of good vs. evil. I'm terrified of the monstrous forms and body horror as well as what the events of this book mean for the Hulk and Bruce Banner. I don't see how the good guys win this fight and that's pretty scary.

Immortal Hulk continues to fire on all cylinders. This issue catches us up with the supporting characters, provides new context and new possibilities as this riveting comic keeps going. It's as unpredictable as ever, taking us into uncharted territory. This comic should be on everyone's pull list.

Flatline touches upon all the aspects that has made Immortal Hulk such a great read since it launched. We've got some body horror, bombastic action, and solid character work all in this one-and-done story. It shows how much Banner's transformation into the Hulk has affected other people around him, good and bad. There's some excitement to that, but also a bit of sadness.

With the success of Immortal Hulk, I'm glad to see Marvel doubling down to give us new and unsettling stories with this creepy part of the Marvel Universe. This one-shot is special, moving from pure terror to shining hope. It's the kind of horror that can chill you to the core one moment and then bring a tear to your eye the next. This is one of the best one-shots of the year.

Immortal Hulk: Time of Monsters joins a growing list of solid one-shots dealing with the new status quo of the Green Goliath. This is a welcome addition and I hope we get to see more from these creative teams soon. Honestly, I'm just glad we're getting such top-notch horror in the Marvel Universe. More please!

Basketful of Heads has demonstrated a huge amount of character development in its first issue. I feel like I've known Liam and June for ages instead of just a single chapter of their story. Again, this makes their imminent danger all the more impactful. I hit the final page of this comic with eyes wide and bated breath. More importantly, I'm begging for more, which is exactly the kind of feeling you should have when you hit the end of a comic like this.

Basketful of Heads is still gaining momentum. Even though we've had a beheading, it feels like the early climb of a roller coaster. This is getting traction and my enjoyment of the series is only growing. The characters are well defined in both the plot and the artwork and the story is riveting from beginning to end, not to mention how downright terrifying it is. This book is awesome.

Basketful of Heads shows that every town has its fair share of secrets. Things make look pristine and quaint on the surface, but that could be hiding sinister intentions ready to bubble up with one big storm or a swing of an ax. It's a bloody, tense ride made even more so with well-defined characters full of life...and a bit of death. This is easily one of the best horror comics of the year.

Clean Room is a damn satisfying read.  This is a book that will grip you from the first page and never let go.  It helps that it's scary as hell.  This is a horror fan's dream comic.  Instead of yelling "Don't go into the basement!" you want to warn whatever is lurking down there to be wary of Astrid Mueller.

I love everything about Clean Room.  It's a book that fires on all cylinders with a riveting story, incredible artwork, and more than a few "Holy crap!" moments.  It's the kind of comic where you get to the end and immediately look up the release date of the next issue.

Clean Room kicks off a new arc in style, working with the new status quo, moving the characters into position to explore the mystery even further.  Intrigue is bursting from the seams of this comic.  You've got monsters, amazing characters, and a terrifying baby.  What more could you ask for?

Clean Room never fails to deliver.  It's a near-perfect horror comic that provides scares of all shapes and sizes.  You can try to look away, but your eyes will always be drawn back.  You just have to see what happens next...and then what happens after that...and so on.  Every time you think you've seen it all, the book twists again and plunges you deeper into the abyss of terror.

There's a reason I called Clean Room the #1 horror comic of 2016. It's moving into 2017 without missing a beat as it continues to deliver solid storytelling with jaw-dropping artwork. It's creating horror on another level. This isn't just people getting cut up by a slasher or some demonic creature stealing souls. This is terror in the truest sense of the word.

If this is the end of Clean Room, it is an incredibly satisfying conclusion. Writer Gail Simone ties up a number of loose ends, pulling everything together in a nice finale. I obviously hope to see much more of this amazing series that has terrified and delighted me for eighteen solid issues. All too often a story can keep you excited in the beginning and middle, but fall short in the end. I'm happy to say that that is not the case here. Clean Room delivers on all fronts.

Colder: The Bad Seed is a welcome return to insanity. It's a horror book unlike any others that are currently available on the shelves, filled with pure terror and real human characters. This is the kind of comic that you would read under your covers with a flashlight and then have nightmares about.

Colder: The Bad Seed is a welcome expansion to the original series. It's not bogged down by exposition or needless explanations of the new villain or Declan's past. Instead, it's an immersive experience that surrounds the reader with terror that crawls right up your spine.

Colder: The Bad Seed is easily the scariest comic on the stands right now. This is terror that will creep up your spine and make you cringe. You'll want to look away but you can't. Once it wraps its long, claw-like fingers around you, you're trapped. It excels at visually exploring insanity as one woman fights her way through all manner of crazy to get to the love of her life, but she might not be happy with what lurks in Declan's deep, dark past.

What's next for our cosmic hero with the shattered mind? Get ready for another fascinating character study in the Black Hammer universe.

This fascinating character study continues, taking us through time and space to show how Colonel Weird got to the breaking point.

Colonel Weird finds what he was missing and it's a game-changer. As he bounces between one tragic moment from his life to another, he may have found the piece that will set him back on track in this gorgeously illustrated comic.

Headspace is a damn fine comic that will keep you on your toes. Lindsay sets a breakneck pace with the story and never lets up, taking sharp twists and turns. Here you have a beacon of sanity in Shane surrounded by an ocean of chaos with Max's mind. This is high caliber work that you are just not going to see anywhere else.

You can practically feel the soundtrack picking up in the background as Shane takes some fateful steps in this issue of Headspace. The music swells. The drums pound. One man stands against insurmountable odds in an effort to do the right thing and stop a killer. There's been too much death so far. Headspace continues to be an amazing character study of a man with moral fiber that would make Batman blush. It's the kind of comic that I can't wait to re-read in its entirety, which is convenient as there's a collection coming soon from IDW Publishing.

Headspace has one of the most satisfying endings I've seen in years.  Lindsay crafted an emotionally draining adventure through the mind of a killer that's unlike anything you'll see on the stands today.  It's huge in scope and earnest as all Hell.  Watching the lengths that one man is willing to go is inspiring.  We should all hope to be half the man that Shane is.  This is what a hero looks like.  There are no capes or tights.  Just a man standing up for what's right with conviction.

Hellicious is like I Hate Fairyland set in Hell. It has the same level of crazy and hilarious humor with super fun artwork and a breakneck pace. This is tailor made for any horror fan with a dark sense of humor. Writers A.C. Medina and Mina Elwell are on to something great here.

Hellicious is filled with dark humor and it's the best kind. Writers Alan C. Medina and Mina Elwell deliver a non-stop assault of jokes and gags that will keep you smiling from beginning to end. This is the spiritual successor to Lenore from Roman Dirge, although filled with far more hellfire.

Hellicious is a hilarious comic that somehow makes Hell look fun. It's packed to the brim with dark humor in the best possible ways. It's like a Looney Tunes cartoon set in the underworld.

Negative Space is a damn near perfect first issue.  It's a comic that grabs you with a helluva hook and never lets go.  You're instantly pulled into this world and intrigued by the conspiracy that's lurking just beneath the surface.  This coupled with the strong and emotional character development makes it a must read. It's definitely not your average horror story, and that's what makes it so special.

Negative Space just opened up onto a whole new level.  The first issue was just the precursor to this expansive and horrifying world.  The real scary thing about it is how believable it all is.  It's not that far off to imagine that we're all miserable because an evil corporation has been pulling the strings to make us that way in order to profit from our sadness by feeding it to a race of powerful undersea creatures.  Well, when you say it like that, maybe it's a little out there.  Still, Negative Space can scare you and then make you want to go out and hug someone.  It's a weird feeling at first, but you just kind of go with it.

Negative Space hits on all marks.  It's a powerful comic with a message, but it doesn't beat you over the head with it.  In lesser hands, this would have turned into a Monsters Inc ripoff where the Evorah found they can feed off of happiness better than depression.  Instead, it became so much more.  This cements Ryan K. Lindsay as an expert storyteller capable of truly incredible character work.  They feel like real people and that's the greatest compliment you can give to someone that made all these characters up.  Owen Gieni has crafted some of the most terrifying monsters seen on the stands today, made even scarier by the fact that they rarely speak.  They come out of the water in silence and just start killing.  The scenes with the humans are far more chilling though.  Seriously, go check out that panel with the keyboards.  I would not be surprised if that's stolen for a horror movie in the next couple years.

Road of Bones explores a legend, time period, and location that I am entirely unfamiliar with, yet instantly pulls me in. The character development is solid. The story is intriguing. The artwork is second to none. If you thought the yeti was the scariest thing in the mountains, you haven't seen anything yet.

Road of Bones hooked me with a great premise in the debut issue. This chapter pulls me into this compelling journey of these three unlikely allies. Writer Rich Douek puts you in their shoes, wondering what might kill them first. It's saying something when the biggest threat isn't from the literal monster lurking in the shadows, but from each other.

Road of Bones does a lot with a little. There are no jump scares or other cheesy tactics you see in horror movies. This is the kind of terror that gets under your skin, giving you an uneasy feeling that will stay with you for some time. It will freak you right out.

This all leads up to a fantastic cliffhanger ending. If you're not hooked with the last page reveal, you're an idiot. It instantly vaults The Ghost Fleet from an all-out action comic to an epic mystery / conspiracy book filled with a thirst for vengeance. You'll be left with more questions than answers, and you'll be begging for the next issue.

The Ghost Fleet really upped the ante with this issue.  It was already an exciting, no-holds-barred comic, but now it's on a whole other level.  Donny Cates and Daniel Warren Johnson left it all on the page here.  It's a popcorn movie of a comic with substance and heart.

The Ghost Fleet ends in such a way as to herald in a new beginning.  It's a balls-to-the-wall action book with a massive supernatural angle that changes everything in such an awesome way.  It goes from being exciting to dreadful to friggin' metal.  If you've ever liked any action movie that's ever been made, you should read The Ghost Fleet.

Once & Future is most definitely a comic to watch. This first issue is already on its way to a fourth printing, so it looks like people are taking notice. You do not want to miss this. It's a solid tale of monsters and folklore mixed with great character work and some of the best art in the business. The creators set a pretty high bar with this debut issue and I cannot wait to see where this goes next.

Once & Future has steadily been assembling the pieces of this story and this issue delivers some major developments that left my jaw on the floor. You might come for the new take on Arthurian legend, but you'll stay for the amazing character work and incredible art. This is a powerhouse of a comic, blending action and horror in a big, beautiful way.

The final pages of Once & Future #7 redefine the comic. You might have thought you knew where it was going next, but writer Kieron Gillen pulls a wild twist that completely changes the game. Once & Future was already a solid action horror title. This chapter greatly expands its size and scope and I'm eager to see how this all plays out.

Once & Future started as an interesting and frightening take on the legend of King Arthur. It has since grown to be so much more, with seemingly all of the western myths at its disposal, albeit with a horror bend. It's like Once Upon a Time meets Supernatural with a bunch more monsters.

Once & Future is the action-horror epic we need. It has its foundation in old folklore, then raises the stakes with a personal story of family that is nothing short of riveting. This is tense, exciting, and downright terrifying. In short: This is a great comic.

I will admit that I don't know anything about The Green Knight from myths and legends, however that doesn't take away from the enjoyment of Once & Future. Writer Kieron Gillen has pulled us in with compelling characters and an intriguing premise that has only gotten more riveting as its gone on.

This is a quieter yet just as intense issue of Once & Future. We learn more about this family and the lengths its members are willing to go to protect or destroy their homeland. There's a nice twist at the end that opens the door for more possibilities. This book just keeps growing and I love it. The story, characters, and artwork are so strong that you can't help but get pulled in completely.

Once & Future reaches new heights with this issue, greatly expanding the world and this fascinating mythos. The stakes are raised considerably and I can't wait to see where this series goes next. Action and horror mix with folklore in this intriguing and terrifying comic.

Exorsisters puts a new spin on the supernatural detective trope. Sure we've had John Constantine and Cal McDonald, but we needed a fun female perspective and the Harrow sisters definitely deliver that. The twist at the end of this first issue reframes the story and opens the door to a slew of possibilities that I can't wait to see explored.

Exorsisters could have been a fun romp with two sisters solving supernatural mysteries, like a modern day Scooby Doo, but with real monsters. Instead, it reaches new heights by adding in a compelling mystery and so much family drama. I was already hooked after the first issue, but now I'm pulled in completely.

Exorsisters is just plain fun. It's perfect for any horror fan because it plays with all the tropes we've come to know and love. It doesn't insult them either. Instead, it uses them in new and humorous ways while also weaving a great story through them. Exorsisters is the horror / comedy we all need.

Exorsisters grows by leaps and bounds in this issue, laying the groundwork for some major plot points. This isn't just an ancient evil that needs to be vanquished. It's personal to Cate and Kate. There are some nice twists and turns that keeps up the unpredictable nature of this comic. There's a Supernatural flair to it, which is certainly not a bad thing.

Exorsisters hit with a bang in its first arc with a great premise and some nice twists and turns. As it embarks on its second storyline, it ups the game considerably. This is the horror comedy you need in your life.

Angel is back and better than ever. He's seamlessly brought into this day and age with a new, refreshing take. It's safe to say that BOOM! Studios has another hit on its hands. Most importantly, it's also new-reader friendly. If you're not familiar with Angel from his TV show, you can still jump right into this series and pick up on everything. This is more like a re-imagining than a continuation of the show.

There's still a fair amount of brooding in Angel, of course. That's a key part of the character after all. It's balanced out by this unsettling story and an increasing cast of supporting characters. Writer Bryan Edward Hill is crafting not just a great Angel story, but a great supernatural story. Anyone can pick this book up and dig right in...or I guess I could go for the pun and say they can sink their teeth in. In any case, this is super accessible and entertaining. It's a solid vampire detective book.

While the Hellmouth crossover event is every bit as epic as it set out to be, Angel & Spike really shines in these closer, personal stories. We get to the heart of these characters and what connects them. As dysfunctional as this group can be, they're still going to stick together and fight for one another, even if what binds them together is still fresh. This has set out on its own path separate from the TV show it's based on and it is better for it. These is a unique story full of possibilities.

This is a bold step for this series and I am excited to see where it goes next. Angel & Spike has been able to take what made the TV show so great and modernize it without losing any of the core essence. It's moody and eerie with a pinch of humor. In short, it's fun and well worth checking out.

The Autumnal will get into your brain and stay there. It has a haunting quality to it that really shines. This first issue has a dynamite cliffhanger and cements the unsettling nature of the story in such a way that you will be dying to learn more. Do not miss this book.

The Autumnal will engulf you. It seeps into your bones. The characters are so relatable that we have quickly become invested in their lives. This makes the dangers they face all the more harrowing. We're just getting started with this book, but it's already become one of my favorite comics of the year.

The Autumnal hits with small-town horror in a big way. It shows how dark and tragic life out in the boonies can be and the lengths locals will go to protect this way of life, even with its heartbreak. Despite being born here, Kat is an outsider, so she sees this place for what is really is. That will undoubtedly put her in danger. It's clear we're just getting warmed up in this series and the scares are only getting bigger.

The Autumnal is one of the most unsettling comics on the stands today. It will leave you on the edge of your seat as so many elements come together in a beautiful and terrifying manner. It's a tense book that's paying dividends in scares.

Avery, Owen, and Jamie don't check off boxes in a stereotypical horror story trope list. They're unique individuals with interesting qualities, making them more relatable, which in turn makes us more invested in their lives (and hopefully not deaths). This solid character development elevates the story and the scares contained within. Bedtime Games reminds me of a good Stephen King tale. Here are three kids who set out on an adventure and end up with something very different.

In my review for the first issue, I pointed out how much Bedtime Games reminds me of Stephen King's work. That is definitely still the case here, if not more so. Writer Nick Keller is crafting a story that will get under your skin. It's a compelling and chilling tale that speaks to the curious child in all of us.

Blossoms 666 is a slow burn in the same vein as The Exorcist. It has a constant feeling of dread through every page. While the scares are light in this debut issue, it is one of the most riveting openers in recent memory. Writer Cullen Bunn pulls us into this creepy version of Riverdale and I am transfixed by what might come next. Archie Comics has been on a roll with its horror line and Blossoms 666 is sure to be another hit.

This is the kind of expert pacing that writer Cullen Bunn can deliver. The guy knows a thing or two about horror comics and Blossoms 666 is another solid book. It helps that we're so familiar with these characters, but that's only part of it. This would be a gripping read on its own. Adding Archie and the gang only elevates the terror.

Book of Death is rife with possibilities.  It's an event book that carries the gravitas that most tout but rarely deliver.  You get the sense that the status quo is about to change in a way that actually matters.  This isn't a situation where a character will get a new costume for a little while and then everything will go back to normal.  It's going to be tough to come back from some of this, and things are going to get a lot bloodier before it's through.

Although Book of Death has been filled with an ominous terror throughout its run, this issue is packed with heart.  It's an inspiration to see how far someone will go to do the right thing.  It has similarities in tone and theme to Hellboy: The Storm and The Fury, which certainly puts it in good company.  It's the kind of book that I wish more event comics strived to be.  This is a self-contained, easily accessible story that holds deep, meaningful ramifications for the entire Valiant Universe that will take it into an entirely new phase.  It hits like a punch to the gut and pulls at all the feels.  This is a solid read and easily one of the best books of the year.

Come Into Me is a disturbing read, blending body horror with technology in a way we haven't seen since The Fly. Everyone seems to agree that we're spending too much time with social media. This might just be the push you need to stay off of Facebook for a little while, as it presents a dark and scary possible future.  Writers Zac Thompson & Lonnie Nadler have made some really creepy stuff here.

Come Into Me is the most unsettling comic I've read this year. Writers Zac Thompson and Lonnie Nadler have crafted something that gets under your skin by design. The very thought of becoming a prisoner in your own body is horrifying. This book plays with that concept in a very intriguing way. You're not going to get something like jump scares in Come Into Me. Instead you'll get a horror comic that will scare you to your core. This is taking body horror to a new level.

Come Into Me was already a solid horror title, but this issue catapults it to new heights. It is hands down one of the scariest comics of the year and it's not over yet. I cannot wait to see how this wraps up.

I could go on and on about Come Into Me, as it's easily one of the best horror comics of the year. This is a terrifying book and this final issue is gripping from beginning to end. Writers Zac Thompson and Lonnie Nadler have stretched the boundaries of this medium, creating something that I should not have read right before going to sleep.

Crossing is a great debut with an intriguing premise.  Although it deals with some serious themes like suicide, it's presented mostly as a comedy, albeit a dark one.  It's definitely not like a sitcom with a ghost.  Instead, it's a more relatable story about two characters thrown together by tragedy and how they're working through it.

At the time of this writing, writer Enrica Jang is currently using Kickstarter to raise funds for the release of Crossing #2 and #3.

Curse is off to a great start.  This is the kind of origin issue you want from a new story.  There's just enough information to make it worth your $4, with enough questions to make you want to come back for more.  The shots of the werewolf are sparse, but the scares come from the fact that that Griffin is taking the first steps down a dark path and he doesn't even realize it.

Although the werewolf is not the main character in Curse, it never lets you forget how dangerous it is and can be.  It can symbolize what we're all capable of when our backs are against the wall. This finale is one of the best single issues I've read this year. Curse is solid tale that despite some predictability, surges forward with pure emotion and unbridled horror.

DCeased is an incredible and terrifying comic that stands on its own with a beginning, middle, and end. I didn't think we needed more from this world, but Unkillables proved me wrong and I could not be happier about that. This is a character-driven horror story that shakes the DC Universe to its core. Writer Tom Taylor returns to this world with a bang; a bloody, horrifying bang.

DCeased: Unkillables is a powerful horror comic that's full of heart. Our care for these characters makes the tragic and terrifying events they encounter all the more harrowing. I didn't think we could top the original DCeased series, but this one did it in spades.

Goners is a perfect mix of horror and adventure. It's a fast paced comic that begins with breakneck speed and never lets up.

Goners continues to excel. This is a monster-filled comic surrounded by characters with heart. It seamlessly mixes the horror with emotional drama and throws in some staggeringly good character development. Each issue has unraveled a bit more of the mystery, pulling you deeper and deeper into the Latimer family rabbit hole.

Semahn and Corona build to a shocking ending that really changes everything. I know you hear that phrase a lot in comics, but I mean it here. Looking back at the beginning of the series, it's hard to believe that things have escalated to such an extent. I found myself looking at these pages and thinking, "No, they can't be doing this. Please don't be doing this." But I couldn't turn away. The creators have pulled me in. I'm deeply invested in these characters and I want them to avoid the supernatural train wreck that they're barreling towards at full speed...but I don't think that's in the cards just yet. I mean, the comic is called Goners for a reason, right?

Goners is the kind of comic that I could see translate easily into a weekly TV show.  These first six issues are basically the pilot.  Granted, the things that Jacob Semahn and Jorge Corona packed this with would require an astronomical budget to produce.  Goners is a blend of action, adventure, horror, and good old-fashioned family drama.  It's about growing up.  It's about standing up for yourself.  It's about kicking ass.

I love when characters like these get the spotlight, even though they tend to stick to the shadows. Gotham City Monsters is a great example of the kinds of solid storytelling you can get when you dabble with the darker side of the DC Universe. This debut issue sets the stage for an epic battle between good and evil. The funny thing is the good guys are far from your typical heroes, but they're definitely the ones you want on your side in a fight like this.

This team really gels with this issue, which is why it's so unfortunate that this is the final chapter of this series. It's clear that writer Steve Orlando has more in store for these characters and he definitely leaves the door open for more adventures. I certainly hope he gets a chance to do so, as there is plenty of room in the DC Universe for a group like this. Yes, we have Justice League Dark, but Gotham City Monsters scratches a different itch. It deals with the outcasts and the misunderstood rising up to stop an evil that has struck at the others like themselves. Even monsters need a hero every now and then.

Hellboy rarely goes wrong and this one-shot is another solid chapter in the character's history. Since he's been all over the world for decades, there are opportunities for many more stories like this and I sincerely hope we get them. It's clear that Mignola has not missed a beat in Hellboy's 25-plus year legacy.

Hellboy and the B.P.R.D.: The Beast of Vargu is another solid supernatural adventure. Hellboy's history is long and storied, but more importantly, it's not fully explored yet. This allows for these smaller tidbits to pop up every now and then to further the character's legacy and remind us of how awesome he is. It makes you wish Hellboy would run forever.

Hotell is a true standout of a horror comic from beginning to end. If this is what new publisher AWA Studios has in store for us, we are in for quite a treat. Hotell sets the bar high right out of the gate with unparalleled scares, brilliant artwork, and great character work. Do not miss it.

Hotell is full of equal parts mystery and terror. It will make you think twice before making an unscheduled stop off the interstate. It hits on all marks and you most definitely do not want to miss it.

Hotell is one of the most innovative and frightening comics on the stands today. It's like a more horrific Twilight Zone, where anything can happen, although it's never bright and shiny. It's always dark and sinister.

Hotell stands strong as four separate yet connected tales. This final issue ties them all together, but does so in a strange and unclear fashion that doesn't quite click. There are still some open questions about what this hotel really is and what's behind it all (with more questions popping up in this chapter too), so I would love to see more tales at this location. At the very least, it will have you thinking twice before taking your next road trip.

Made Men puts a refreshing take on the Frankenstein story, greatly expanding it and bringing it to the modern day. Most of the stories that return to Frankenstein focus on the monster and where it went next. This puts a nice new spin on it that is rife with possibilities. Jutte is reluctant to face her family history, but is forced to do so when she and her team are put in the crosshairs. Now she has a rag-tag group of monsters working to bring down the folks that put them in this position in the first place. All the torches and pitchforks in the world aren't going to stop them.

Made Men hits with a brilliant premise that I hope runs forever. We have to see Jutte get her revenge and it's going to be absolutely brutal, however the concept introduced in this chapter allows for a recurring idea. She's no longer on the police force, but she could be gainfully employed by resurrecting people that were killed before their time. This also opens the door to some interesting moral dilemmas. Does she take money from someone to bring back a person that clearly does not deserve a second chance?

Monster World is a comic that's tailor made for me.  It's a mix of private eye noir and good old-fashioned monsters that delivers on every level.  If The Maltese Falcon had a werewolf instead of a bird statue, it might resemble this comic.  If you're a fan of Hard Case Crime and the classic movie monsters, this is right up your alley.

Monster World expertly blends elements of the private eye novels of yesteryear with those of supernatural horror. It's a solid read with some dynamite artwork. If you ever wanted to see Humphrey Bogart fight a zombie, this book is for you.

This is a perfect example of how you create a #1 issue. Oblivion Song is the total package, delivering terrifying monsters, personal character development, stunning artwork, and a great story. Do not sleep on this series.

Oblivion Song is just getting started. It's only three issues in and I am completely hooked. Nathan is such an intriguing character and he has a personal stake in finding these survivors and bringing them back. His brother is over there. That's part of what drives him. He's so determined to bring these people home that he can't see the dangers right in front of him. That's making for one compelling story.

Oblivion Song has all the makings of a sprawling dystopian epic. It presents a glimmer of hope in a sea of chaos, as these folks have found a way to survive in such hellish conditions. They've built a community and they work together to protect it. Nathan represents a threat to that. Will they stay or will they go?

Oblivion Song rises to new heights with this issue. It already had a solid hook, great character development, and gorgeous artwork. Now that it's grabbed you, it reaches up to new levels with some awesome twists and turns. This chapter reframes the entire story to date.

Barry and Henry are just two of the handful of characters that make up the whole group. They begin to come together by the end of the issue, like pieces of a puzzle starting to form. They're not all in one place just yet, but there's enough movement and development to get you excited for more. This is an awesome way to start a series. These creators know how to handle a western horror comic, so I'm most definitely looking forwards to where Shadow Roads takes us.

Shadow Roads is going deep on lore with this second issue. Writers Cullen Bunn and Brian Hurtt greatly expand this world filled with monsters and supernatural beings. This continues to establish the rules and mythos of this land and I'm eating it up. This, coupled with compelling character development and amazing artwork, makes Shadow Roads a solid read.