Jay Hill Comic Reviews

20XX #3 is another great chapter that shows more of the interesting world and the appealing characters. Meria and Soriya’s complex relationship is growing to be the best part of the narrative. But, the events of the world are pushing closer towards them and likely will not go away silently.

All in all, this comic is a good start to this story. It introduces its elements and knows how to use them, but not enough is included to get a full understanding of what we exactly have yet. The way all the pieces are put into place gives the sense that there is more here than can be gleaned from this short issue, but time will be the judge of that.

Ant-Man #1 proves that good things come in small packages (that are also really big sometimes). There’s family bonding, fistfights, and a lot of fun. This story takes what’s great about the character, does it well, and adds its own quite interesting elements. Scott might be down on his luck, but he’s been known to rise to the occasion. This book not only has promise, but it could also be a defining story for “the guy who talks to bugs”.

Ant-Man #2 has already marked this series as something special. There are many elements to draw you to this book and keep you reading. The humor is outstanding, there are fascinating aspects to the story, and now there’s an enemy that is truly terrifying. And, the glimpses of the next issue seem like things are going to get even more fun. Insect will meet arachnid when Ant-Man runs into Spider-Man.

Ant-Man #3, at its core, is an issue about the relationship between Scott and his daughter Cassie. While Scott tries to prove he’s not a loser, we get to have fun seeing him be one. His interactions with the Avengers, Spidey, and Black Cat aren’t just hilarious, they help build upon that core story. And, while there is fun being had, the threat Ant-Man faces is no joke.

Backtrack #1 is a creator-owned comic that proves this is the medium to go to for new and interesting ideas. The story in this first issue has no filler added and the art cuts no corners. There is definite creativity and talent on display here. If you pick up this book, I guarantee something in it will grab you.

In its first issue, Bang! proves to be more than just another spy tale. With its reality-bending narrative, this isn't going to be "What if James Bond was a codename?" the comic. This is going to be an excursion into the identity of fictional characters. We might need to build new walls because this comic has broken more than just the fourth.

It works so well, that by the final cliffhanger ending, I found myself already attached to the characters in peril. And, that’s because I know the relationships that existed earlier because it was explained simply throughout the issue. I’m anticipating the next installment not just to see how the story progresses, but to see more of the entire visual nature of the book. Copra isn’t just a joy to read, it’s a joy to see.

Fiffe is composing Copra into an amazing comic book. He has crafted so many elements into a thrilling read. With a seemingly endless bag of tricks, he is keeping me excited to see what he’ll pull out next.

Copra #4 is the build to the next stage for the team. With their sights on the new mission, they now understand what their goal is. Fiffe is keeping the comic rolling by expressing the story with visuals you will find in no other comic. And, it seems that after this issue the definitive period of this series will be starting.

Things are starting to pick up. The story has reached a place where anything can happen and likely will. In this issue, much was delivered on and much was set-up. The action-packed fight scene and the cataclysmic ending leaves no room for it to slow down. With Fiffe at the reins, and his track record as a sign of the future, this book will continue to be one of a kind and one of the most thrilling reads out there.

Deadly Class has continued to create escalating situations without feeling like it’s trying to one-up itself. This new beginning continues the characters on what now seems like the only natural course for them. But the stakes have never been higher. The powder keg is building to an inevitable explosion. This has always been the endgame. However, it’s still unclear who has the winning plan and who will be added to the long list of casualties.

This issue is so packed with character development that some of it even happens in the background. The status quo has been effectively shaken up. This was an excellent way to show how focusing on character actions can move the story forward drastically. There is one scene in particular that is not only hilarious but changes the complexity of a character that’s been around since the beginning. With everything seeming to be moving further out of Marcus’ control, it’s going to be interesting to see him deal with it all.

Things are going bad for Marcus. Surely, that comes as no surprise to anyone familiar with the series. You may even be saying “Things are going bad for Marcus” could be the series’ subtitle, but now things are really going bad. With the emergence of another threat of great numbers, great power, and zero responsibility the end for the King's Dominion gang may finally be approaching. This issue has everything that has kept this book so great, puts us on the track for another exciting chapter, and restores an unpredictable nature to the narrative. And, not to mention, one of the greatest, and most-loved characters meet their end in it.

This may be called “the end of the arc” but it is more of a pivot. With lots left up in the air and unfinished, there is much more to be said. The events are some of the most substantial of the series and may be a sign that a true end is near. With the serial unpredictability of this story though, it’s never safe to say anything seems certain, especially after an issue where almost nothing seems certain.

Decorum #1 is the opening chapter of a story that was expected to be big and has lived up to those expectations. There’s story, ideas, character, mystery, and action in abundance. You couldn’t have asked for a better beginning. Jonathan Hickman and epic science fiction comic books are a match made in heaven. And while the substantial story content builds up the worlds, Mike Huddleston makes them concrete with stunning and diverse visuals. In this book, a new reality of wonder is created and all you have to do is open it to be transported there.

All in all, the annual gives you a taste of everything you would expect from a Dr. Strange title. It brings supernatural action, a feeling of horror, but also has a heart-warming aspect that may not have been expected. And the second story is a highlight and could be implying what the future holds for the Master of the Mystic Arts.

Any fan of Doctor Who should pick up this comic. It is filled with everything to love about the show, with the benefits afforded to the great medium of comic books. The sci-fi story brings that classic Who mystery with the humor intact too. The art not only captures the likenesses of the characters but is outstanding in all aspects. I couldn't get enough of this comic and reached the cliffhanger more than ready for the next installment.

The Holiday Special of Doctor Who came in the form of a comic book this year, and I couldn't be happier. The adventure in this book is filled with sci-fi mystery, hilarious humor, and heartwarming holiday cheer. And, with seemingly more tales of The Doctor to come from this creative team, they've got a new fan aboard their TARDIS.

This is comic is superb on many levels. The art is amazing and the writing is perfectly "Who". But the magic is in what they've taken from the history of the show and brought into this book to make fresh and new.

This is can’t miss Doctor Who! It's everything great about the series, in a new and exciting story. The mystery is being handled perfectly, as are the characters and humor. And, the art is magnificent on every level. Pick up this book and go on a ride through space and time.

With his new system in place, Dr. Stephen Strange sets out to heal the world in all respects. This issue introduces a precarious predicament that will hopefully turn out alright, but with things seeming to start to pile up, the Sorcerer/Surgeon Supreme may have to pick one occupation to give his complete attention. Dr. Strange #1 shows the best sides of its title character and begins an adventure to test what he is capable of.

The balancing act continues by Dr. Strange. On one hand, he holds the health of any patient he chooses to operate on and on the other he holds the safety of reality as a whole. But, he is still in control. However, this issue inches dangers from the shadows and closer to our hero. The story seems on a stable track to stay entertaining, but its main themes have yet to really flourish, leaving room for this story to go in any direction.

This was an issue that was simply fun to read. The adventure Dr. Strange goes through is exciting every (trippy) step of the way. And, Mark Waid knows what to sprinkle throughout to give it more substance than is noticeable at first glance. With this being just the third beat in this tale, it opens up what could come next.

East of West #44 is one of the best issues in one of the best series. It is closing the story with a swell of action, drama, and emotion. The battle within these pages is not just action-packed but is filled with a poignance only capable with the 43 previous issues behind it. With the next issue being the finale, this one ends with the feeling that a showdown is imminent on all fronts.

This issue isn't just a perfect closer to an outstanding series, it's the perfect opener for the next decade. It has all the style you could want from a comic and even more substance. East of West #45 is the last chapter of a comic book world and it makes that world anew. Beautiful and enriching, if I could give this an 11/10, I would.

With a story that has implications to become apocalyptic, Family Tree #1 starts off that tale with a strong base. Lemire’s family-centric storytelling lulls you in, but the promise is that horror is just around the corner. The art holds everything firmly in place with great stylistic choices by Phil Hester. The start isn’t anything groundbreaking, but the end is sure to surprise.

Without much answered, this comic is still hard to pin down. The family aspects, a strength of Lemire’s writing, are holding together the wild story and the questions sprinkled throughout leave you with desire for context. Although that same vagueness can cause the narrative to feel a bit thin. With only 2 issues to its name, Family Tree still has room to grow.

If you weren’t sure what this story was really about before this issue, you won’t be much closer after this one, but you will be shown more of what is under the surface. Lemire’s focus on family has an added twist in this issue. And, the art adds an atmosphere like no other. The ideas in this comic are definitely interesting and are now gaining form. If this course is kept, this comic may be beginning to bloom.

If the goal of this comic is to relay the history of the first family of Marvel Comics in one series, I’d say it is accomplishing that goal. The comic has an addictive quality to it. The colors, the pulpy design, and the 60’s sci-fi elements are just so delicious. The overwhelming way it is presented can be off-putting for some or confusing, but, for me, it just adds to the fun. It's like being in the cockpit of a zooming rocket as four-color cosmic rays crackle around you and theremin music plays. Personally, I’m enjoying the ride.

Green Lantern Jo Mullein’s story has begun, and it's taking her to a brave new world of brilliant alien sights. The players have been introduced, the secrets are coming to light, and the case is underway. While this introductory issue deals a lot with establishing the new environment, it does it with great depth and paints a beautiful picture (with thanks to out of this world art). Now that the interstellar action is ready, Far Sector appears to be about to blast off.

After an issue focused on building the world of Far Sector, this issue seems to focus on the wrong things. The mystery takes a back seat to more exploration into the history and make-up of the city rather than the craziness going on in it at present. Green Lantern Sojourner Mullein has yet to get a defined voice, although the opening was a nice sign of what we could see her deal with. Hopefully, the next issue will focus more on her journey.

This talented duo is starting to gel together and craft a comic experience of cosmic proportions. The main "ideas" of the story seem to be getting clearer. Jo is still on her way to becoming a Lantern that can bring balance to the galaxy, but the situation she's found herself in may drive her closer to learning what she's made of. This was an entertaining issue that balanced its themes with its narrative and the excellent art is similarly finding its footing. It's a step in the right direction and an enjoyable read.

Far Sector #4 moves the series along, if at a somewhat slow pace. After a good amount of issues, the story still can be summed up as “Green Lantern Sojourner Mullein investigates the City Enduring”. The ideas are vast and interesting, but the sense of an ongoing story just now seems to be becoming concrete. I feel like this series will be better digested when it has gotten to where it’s going and looked back on to be like, “Oh, that’s why that was done…” and to appreciate the value of certain elements. But “in the moment” it is a little hard to pin down.

Far Sector continues to be an enjoyable, yet hard to pin down, series. The talent on display is undeniable, but cohesion is lacking. This origin focused issue was a great look at the character of Green Lantern Sojourner Mullein and may be one of the most engrossing because of how revealing it is. And with that view of the past, the art gets to also show us some different things. I’m still not sure where the “main story” is leading us, but this issue’s end shows we are progressing towards something.

This issue was a great interlude while also being a good primer and opener for the next part of this arc. The way this story is being set-up is feeling like a “quintessential” chapter is about to be told. The personal elements in the narrative and the ones that are so woven into the makeup of the character leaves room for this to go very engrossing places. Like the way Paradox is changing the Flash’s history, this issue changes things between Barry and his bitterest rival. The art team made this interesting read as interesting to look at and both elements fit perfectly to produce a very strong issue.

This “Flash Age” arc has been doing everything right. The villain is great, the story has progressed in an unexpected but brilliant way, and the use of Flash history has added substance to this chapter in Barry’s life. If Flash and Reverse-Flash having to team up doesn’t already make you interested in this story, then I don’t know what else to say. The art is also spectacular in this issue and adds weigh to some of the big moments. Paradox is a monster of a foe for the Flash and seeing how Barry (and Eobard) deals with him will be something.

This is a great conclusion to what turned into a really good chapter in the Flash's adventures.

The quest has started, and the path is set, where it will end is a mystery. Especially given the hints of the picture behind the scenes. We’re introduced to some likable characters that are as interesting as the world built around them, and the mystery at the center of it. All that is left to do is to tag along and see what is revealed during the journey.

Folklords #2 takes the journey of Ansel off the beaten track. If it seemed predictable, this proves the story has more to offer. This, surprisingly chilling, issue is written so that its secrets stay hidden while taking the characters on a journey they, and the readers, couldn’t have seen coming. And its paired with art that plays to the creepy nature of its setting and situations. I was in for this series because it started the story off well, but now I’m hooked because I can’t see where it’s going.

As unpredictable as the structure is, it manages to stay entertaining throughout. The suspense is kept up in this issue and a sense of action and adventure is there too. Ansel’s determination is driving him and the story. The questions are getting bigger and the answers seem to be getting closer. But, this series has subverted my expectations before, will it do it again?

Folklords #5 sticks the landing this series has been building to. The answers in this issue were as interesting as the multiple questions that have been raised in this series. Every twist and turn along the way is made even better knowing it leads to this. This was a near-perfect issue with innumerable great moments. No matter what happens next, I’ll be on board for it. These 5 issues were great and kept me coming back for more, but the revelations of this issue brought my excitement for this series to a new height.

Like the G.I. Joe team, the series is building a strong base that has to eventually come to a head. The characters are getting there, but the pace could use some picking up. The best thing the series has going for it is the situation it has put the Joes in. One that is going to take a lot of know-how to get out of. Although, that may only be half the battle (c’mon I had to).

This was the issue needed for this series. It freshens it up with a new point of view and an added depth to the themes. A lot was introduced that could cause major ripples for the story. Now that we’ve seen into the lives of the Joes, Cobra, and the civilians caught in between the two, it’s time to see how all these elements can come together spectacularly.

This series of G.I. Joe continues to take me by surprise with its choice of stories. The exploration in this issue is unique and unlike anything I was expecting for the book. However, if the ending wasgiven more time and the themes expressed clearer, this may have hit home even harder.

I Can Sell You a Body #1 is a unique and interesting comic. Denny Little is a joy to watch mess things up and then try to fix them. The characters (both living and dead) and the world (both physical and metaphysical) we’re introduced to represent a sea of possibilities. This comic has a voice that is only found when creators are given the chance to tell the stories they want to. The art inside is insanely stylish and brilliantly brings to life its world of ghosts. If you’re looking to start the fresh year with a fresh comic, I highly recommend this one.

This issue keeps up the freshness of this comic and adds some surprises along the way. This is such a unique comic that it’s a shame it’s only 4 issues long. But, luckily, Ryan Ferrier & George Kambadais are using those issues to do something really fun.

James Bond #1 begins a mystery with an enjoyable first issue. It introduces new characters who are interesting, competent and will be interesting to watch interact with the titular agent. But if you’re here for James Bond, you will be left waiting for his arrival. And while the tale in the issue is fun and the new characters compelling, there is little new brought to the table. But, with what was laid out in these pages, a lot is left open for future issues to do something special.

This was an unfortunate step in the wrong direction. The story not only hasn’t picked up but has dropped a little. The focus being off 007 in the last issue may have hidden the lack of excitement, but when he shows up for this issue there is still little to be seen. The characters aren’t displaying anything special leading to a lack of bond to this James. The art stays nice, but without room in the story to show anything exciting, its all for naught.

After starting a bit shaky like a Bond martini, this issue gels together beautifully. The new characters are carrying the show but that’s not a bad thing because they’re really fun to watch. Bond still lacks a voice, but, in this issue, he showed he still packs a punch in a great fight scene. Since the stolen painting has been found, putting a close to the initial mission, the comic’s future is a blank canvas.

This series hasn’t just found its footing, it’s starting to soar. The intrigue is intriguing, the Bond is forming, and the keys are turning. This is the issue that hits all the right notes and leads room for it to get even higher.

This is a comic that lets it be known very soon that the people behind it know what they’re doing. The story isn’t just interesting it is executed in a way that its natural flow makes every scene gripping. The art is expressive, original, and adds complexity to an already complex story. The issue ends with proof that the journey has just begun, or perhaps, it may be over before it starts.

Kill Whitey Donovan has shown it is more than other comics in just two issues. It has a story that is unique and fascinating to see take shape, with strong and brilliantly fleshed out characters, and twists and turns in abundance. And, art that is in a style full of creativity on the same level of the writing and just as enjoyable to see move forward. While I feel, and believe, there are more good things in store for this comic, it is the unquestionable display of talent from the team that puts this over the top, and earns this review. This is one of my favorite series I’ve read in quite a while. I Highly recommend.

It’s now safe to say, this is my favorite comic on stands right now. The story is pitch-perfect with what it attempts and has me completely invested in the characters. The art creates an atmosphere that makes the opening of this book feel like diving into another world. This is great fiction. I can’t say any more than that I recommend this comic to anyone who reads any kind of book, and I can’t wait to see what’s next and hope the creators work on more books in the future.

Killadelphia is sure to please fans of horror and suspense, but even if you don’t like those elements, in particular, it is sure to entertain you because the real draw is how well executed this comic is. Written with the nuance of a great novel and drawn with the creativity and precision of a true top-tier talent. This is the beginning of something special.

This issue picks up where the last issue left and doesn’t look back. It wastes no time when establishing the threat, new characters and their motives, and showing us how the characters we’ve already been introduced to are dealing with this crazy circumstance. The writing is as top-notch as the art. This series is definitely something special and distinct. I trust the people behind it to keep going with full force.

This story is handled so well and this issue continued to answer questions, build the world, and do much more all while keeping it eye-gluingly entertaining. The storyline is a creative one that is weaving its plot, tone, themes, and all other elements beautifully. Not a second of this book isn’t engrossing and the current “endgame” is unpredictable. This book is an example of how comics, like any medium, can tell wholly original stories that bend and blend genre. And, added to the amazing story is creative art by a truly talented individual making this a comic of the likes which you’ve never read or seen.

The chips are stacked higher in this issue. Adams got his “victory” last issue and now we are shown what he is up against. Tevin continues to be my favorite character in the book but, in this issue, Brittany and her story really grabbed my attention. The atmosphere that has been built in this comic is quite unlike any I’ve read. It’s a historical political revenge horror story with a dash of class warfare and a noir-ish detective angle. As long as the issues keep coming, I’ll keep reading because this team is doing some great and creative work.

I feel like I can say, with a great deal of certainty, The Ludocrats #1 is unlike any comic you’ve ever read. The world on display is one found only on the outskirts of creativity. This story doesn’t lull you into its craziness, it drops you right into this world of ludicrous aristocrats and says, “Bet you’ve never seen a blood gown before.” With shades of Douglas Adams and other forms of nonsensically hysterical humor, this book is not for the boring. So, unless you’re boring, you should be picking up a copy of this book. Y’know… unless you’re boring.

Conan finds the future foreign, dangerous, and lonely. The comic is a great exploration of a battle within. It's self-contained and an engrossing read. It has action and adventure. But what surprised me was the cerebral focus. I highly recommend it. Not one page of this comic wasn't fun to read.

This is the 2099 book I've been waiting for. It excels on all fronts. The story creates a self-contained narrative that takes an established name and switches things up. The story is engaging from page one. Zdarsky uses Doom's familiar psyche to take him, and the reader, on a fantastic journey (with one heck of an ending). But if you came for Zdarsky's writing, you should stay for Marco Castiello's art. In this issue, Castiello has shown me that he is a talent to watch.

It doesn't matter if you love it or hate it, you should experience it. It's such a short and sweet (bitter to some) tale that it should be felt, the keyword, without being spoiled. It's something that can only happen sparsely because now I, and others who read it, will be on their toes. But as of now, you got me. Bravo.

If you're looking for a Marvel comic to entertain you without needing background, I suggest this comic. It's a good new take on the Ghost Rider origin story with flairs of cyberpunk and retro action flicks. It's one of the best of the new 2099 books and may have built the coolest new character.

Punisher 2099 is filled with unique ideas, but they stack atop each other messily and that leaves the comic with a disjointed finished product. It's unable to balance its story with its grand themes. Eventually, leaving us with a fleshed-out world but a paper-thin protagonist.

I cannot recommend this comic enough. It could have been a cheesy exploitative romp. But what it has pulled off is incredible. It has all the hallmarks of a creative team firing on all cylinders. It’s a work of fiction that is fresh, well-executed, and relevant to our culture. Every second of this first issue is put to good use and I can only hope they have much more in store.

Money Shot has proved its seemingly wacky premise is backed up by a team that knows what they're doing. Just like their main character, Dr. Ocampo, they are dedicated to bringing a fresh and unique voice to their medium. The jokes are hitting, and the story is brilliant. It's starting to show how deep it is and since it has only just begun, I can only see it getting deeper (there's a sex joke here somewhere).

This issue delves deeper into the characters. It explores how they’ve reached a point to be comfortable with each other enough to lay everything out in front of a camera. And, it also shows, while they may know each other quite well now, they may not have known what to expect from the aliens they would encounter. Like one of the Money Shot crew’s scenes, this issue builds to satisfying finish and leads into the appropriately named next issue, “Afterglow”.

Money Shot continues to be an absolutely hilarious, refreshingly creative, and all-around engrossing comic. This first arc has been right on track since issue #1, and this installment doesn’t disappoint. This issue is filled with every theme and element that has made this such a fun book and delivers some stand out moments. This series seems pretty far from having blown its load and the end to this issue shows that the real money shot has yet to come.

This is the perfect DC book for the holidays. It’s sure to have at least one story for everyone, and, for me, it featured more than enough fun tales to get me to recommend this to any comic book fan.

Olympia is exploring the imagination of a young boy, and, while doing so, has captured mine. The story looks like it's going to be filled with action, adventure, and fun. But, also a lot of heart. Like the work of Spielberg, it can bring out the kid in you, and like the work of Kirby, it'll make you believe heroes are real. But, it's not just a love letter, it's a labor of love (and a superb comic).

This is a great comic. This book is filled with heart that is felt in every panel. This is not just an ode to the medium comic fans love, but it’s one of the best stories currently being told in it. This is comic books in excelsis. I highly recommend this book.

I’ve praised it once and I’ll do it again, this book is fantastic. It’s a story that has been waiting to be told and I’m glad I’m getting to read it. This issue deals with some heavy matters, but it does so with skill. The writing makes this a joy to read even if the character involved is experiencing the exact opposite. And, this issue features a great guest artist that brings to life a narrative dealing with death.

Pretty Deadly: The Rat is not only a great continuation of the series, three issues in, I’m ready to call it the best yet. This issue is an immaculate piece of a series that is building a mosaic of poetic bliss. The story at the heart of this comic is lovely, but it’s the heart of this comic that is the real treat.

Pretty Deadly: The Rat is becoming the most cohesive addition to the series. The partnership and mystery have been interesting from the start and appear to be wrapping up in the perfect manner. This next beat of their journey adds to the atmosphere and sets up some interesting things. DeConnick’s poetic sensibility has filled this issue, and the entire series, with great ideas. With the finale on the horizon, It will be interesting to discover the answers and see what glimpses we get of the future.

Pretty Deadly: The Rat #5 is the solemn swansong of the mini-series and with it, a high point has been reached. The poetry and poignancy of this series have never been more lucidly on display. Artistry is the focus and motivation behind the writing and the visuals which leads to the final product being a work of pure art. For five issues this story has shown that this team has their best in front of them and, with more Pretty Deadly scheduled to come, comic fans are in for a treat. But, for now, this stands as the absolute testament to the beauty offered by this series.

The amount of growth shown in these three issues has been incredible. What was already a unique story has quickly turned into a real treat. If they’re able to keep up this pace it’s sure to be a fun (and pretty violent) ride.

Pretty Violent #5 continue Gamma Rae's quest for heroic superstardom and her quest for Brodie Perron's heart. It's just as funny as ever and sets-up the finale with questions needing to be answered.

This issue pays off what has been building in this first chapter of Pretty Violent. The conflict of this issue is both physical and familial. The sibling battle is exciting to watch develop, fun to look at (thanks to the consistently gorgeous art), and surprisingly solemn by the end. On top of the great story, the future is also set up nicely. This chapter includes every good element of this book and some of its best moments.

The story is building towards a great climax. In just a couple of issues, there has been a lot explored and expressed. The enemy is so dominating that it makes it that much more exciting to see how, or if, they’ll be overthrown. And I’ve been left wanting more.

The plan to infiltrate the Party and break into the Pleasure Center has been mapped out. This was the issue required after the last issue's look back; it moves the story forward with skill. And, the tragic scenes of George’s current ordeal made the stakes clearer than ever. With the plan being to rescue him and Jones, and given Jones’ action in this issue, you have to wonder can they actually save them both?

Tina Horn’s tale of sex, suppression, and solidarity is continuing to be a great read. This comic is not short on ideas or entertainment. And, in this issue, you can add suspenseful action to the long list of elements this comic brings to the table. With Jen Hickman’s “cool” art and magnificent colors, the sex is still in safe hands.

SFSX #6 continues the dirty dystopia's struggle for freedom. The Dirty Mind team's plan isn't going as planned but it was obvious the Party wasn't going down without a fight. The big reveals of this issue were slightly expected, but the conclusion doesn't close the door on there being more surprises to come.

SFSX #7 brings about a distinct feeling of change. By the end, it feels like a page has turned and a new chapter is set to begin. Things move fast in this issue, but that also means plenty happens. The Party is still an interesting entity that you want to see be torn down and the Dirty Mind crew are just the folks you want to see do it. I’m not sure what’s in store, but this dystopian world feels just as ready for change as when the book first began.

This was a solid second issue that continues the adventure of the #1, but it needs to get a clear direction. The art is spectacular and is carrying the atmosphere and keeping it fromfeeling like a stale team-up title. With the cliffhanger, perhaps the story will start to pick up. Especially given who graces the cover of the appropriately named next issue, DOOM.

This is the issue that brings it all together. The team dynamics are great, and the mission is falling into place. The fun action scene is not only a blast to read, but is filled with meaning that was earned and excellently delivered on. It is keeping and building on its dark atmosphere and it leaves us with a hint that it's about to reach a new height.

After finding its footing, this issue is a well-placed chapter in the series. With the last three installments being action-packed, this rest feels just in time. The focus on giving each character their chance to shine hasn’t changed. And, Tini Howard has crafted a story where that trend can be creatively continued. With the help of multiple great guest artists, this already engaging issue stays that way by changing its style to fit each new flashback.

Strikeforce #6 is an issue that changes the dynamic of the series. The story may feel rushed, but it adds potential that wasn’t apparent before. Now with this story wrapped up, and the new dynamic established, the stories for this team are opened up. And, the preview of the next issue appears to prove that this Strikeforce is ready for anything.

Suicide Squad #1 is action-packed, entertaining, and introduces a new Task Force X that is ready to take on the world. The story features many possible allies and enemies for the team and shakes up the status quo. With a seemingly endless amount of potential, it will be fun to see where the Squad can go from here.

The second issue of the new Suicide Squad proves this comic is in good hands. Action, drama, mystery, this comic can seemingly do it all and do it well. The art is amazing with great expressions, wonderful linework and a cinematic quality that makes it feel like a Hollywood blockbuster. I can hardly wait for the next issue.

This series of Suicide Squad has been a thrill ride. And, this installment keeps up that pace. The dynamic of the squad has never seen days like this. A civil war is brewing inside the group. That tension is creating a healthy dose of suspense. Calling this a powder keg is an understatement. This is a nuclear warhead falling from 2,000 feet and zooming closer to impact. The fallout is going to be quite a spectacle.

In the fourth issue of this thrilling series, we get some answers. The backstory and story development are weaved through a chill “road trip” format. This takes a break from the action while still feeling suspenseful. More is being told about the motivations of Osita and her rebels which makes their fight more compelling. And, the built-in tension of the group continues to be a factor. With this next mission having deep ties to Task Force X, I'm interested in what this entertaining series will show us next.

It can’t be overstated how fun this issue and series is. After seeing Jimmy go through different transformations via body mutations, it was an interesting change seeing Jimmy’s mind be tested and his personality be split. And the underlying mystery of who has it out for Superman’s Pal is still a pull. But it seems that will be put on hold because Jimmy has to answer to an enemy Timmy made, as, in the next issue, the Olsen/Batman prank war begins.

I think it’s now safe to say, this series will go down as one of the essential arcs of Jimmy Olsen. It’s looking into his past and giving him a history that is tied to that of Metropolis itself and one of its most famous residents. The introduction and exploration of the Olsen family is beginning to be the series’ best element. Added to that, his unpredictable personality, a continuously interesting mystery and a hilarious prank war with Batman, and it makes this one of the best books being put out by DC and a must-read.

Superman’s Pal, Jimmy Olsen #6 not only marks the midway point of the series but acts as a set up for the next half. While not featuring an abundance of the titular character or his exploits, it is filled with necessary components that will definitely lead to more hilarity in the future. And, on its own, it's filled with great humor and interesting developments. If anything, this issue proves the series has legs and will continue into 2020 with the same quality it started with.

This issue is an odyssey into Jimmy Olsen. It’s also one of those special issues that not only does a lot but manages not to have a single dull panel. While it explores the main character it also has subtle ways of exploring earlier plot lines, moving forward the story and revealing things to further make it interesting. As the cover shows, the art also goes plenty of unique places while exploring the psyche of Jimmy Olsen. This may be the defining issue for this series, and it’s definitely the defining issue for this character.

Superman’s Pal, Jimmy Olsen #8 is the 8th issue in a series that has consistently produced some of the best comic book-ing around. This chapter is filled to the brim with gut-busting humor. The characters continue to be a blast to watch. Jimmy is still going through transformations and getting into trouble. And the mysterious happenings surrounding him are getting bigger in proportion and closer in proximity. The team behind this book is on fire and making sure this maxi-series goes down as one of the greats.

With only a few more issues left in this monumental and magnificent maxi-series, this issue begins to place the final puzzle pieces into place. It also reiterates that this team’s talent is unquestionable. There are some funny and bizarre scenes, some creative and unique ones, and some interesting and engrossing ones. And, this issue, maybe more than any yet, has an ending that makes the anticipation for the next installment all the greater. Now that Jimmy has gotten a clue, it’s time to see what he’ll do with it.

All has been revealed and we are (unfortunately) close to seeing the end of this chapter of Jimmy Olsen’s adventures. This issue, like the whole series, balances the ongoing mystery with engrossing events, interesting revelations, and gut-busting humor. The pacing of this issue was great and led to an end that not only tied up some storylines but got us ready for what is to come next.

I commend the comic for taking this story and instead of going a dozen obvious other routes, they chose to focus on Lois Lane and give her a believable fall. But minus that aspect, the story doesn’t say a lot more past the “Evil Superman” idea. Exploring her mentality results in little if the ending doesn’t drive home the point, and I felt it didn’t.

This is my favorite new comic I’ve read in years. No need for me to think about it or give it time, it just is. This issue is the introduction to a world brimming with life and creativity. The characters are crafted beautifully. The ideas are abundant and presented naturally. And, the narrative has already gripped me like none other. The art is as unique and creative as the story it visualizes. Awe-inspiring is all I can say about it. Read this comic, do it now!

In conclusion, Tartarus #2 is more of that dope -ish I love. It’s a voyage to a brilliant realm of art. It fills you with that feeling of being somewhere, somehow (to quote Nabokov). Tilde’s journey is interesting, and she's taking it in a world just as engaging. In more ways than one, this comic can simply be described as epic.

This is a rare comic. It (re)introduces a character, his world, and his complexity. Then after taking you on a ride for the entire comic, tells you that you haven’t seen anything yet. If this was just the first act of another noir mystery for The Question, it would be starting off strong, but it’s the start of something much more: a journey into the mystery of Vic Sage himself. And, as the story grabs you with every turn, the art impresses and immerses you.

This is the series to read. If the writing can accomplish what it has done steadily for two issues and the art can stay at the level it's at, this is going to be one of the great ones. Two straight issues have been able to explore two different characters’ duality while weaving an inventive story around them. I haven’t read many comics that have done this and don’t know of any others doing it now. If you’re a fan of cerebral comics, this is the one to pick up.

Being interesting, engrossing, and entertaining for 40+ pages while containing subtle substance and an incredible structure makes this a perfect issue. It’s great storytelling mixed with great art to form a great comic book. Brilliance can be found in the miniseries format and the way Lemire has crafted this story is clearly brilliant. The art may be the best and most expressive in a DC book this year and creates such a satisfying atmosphere. This is a genius and exciting comic book and, with one more issue left, I can’t wait to have this series complete to read it again.

If the goal of this comic was to celebrate Wonder Woman and give her a new beginning, it does that multiple times over. If you love or have ever loved the character and her stories there definitely will be something for you in these pages. And, for the uninitiated, there are many stories within that exemplify what the character means. This is a book fitting for the Warrior Princess of Themyscira.

So far it seems the series will be putting more focus on ideas, specifically what Diana stands for and how she acts on that. It has set up a nice system to discuss those ideas in the future. Diana is just as inspirational as ever and the way she behaves in this issue proves it. The multitude of glimpses of future elements have thoroughly piqued my interest, and have created a great sense of anticipation.

YOUTH is a special comic. Its feeling is fresh because it couldn’t have been done any time in the past; it’s distinctly modern. It has a quiet beauty and a loud nature to it, like youth itself. It’s not a book about concepts or “plot”, its about atmosphere. Even though the events that happen are exciting and impactful, the intangible aura at its core is what makes the experience of reading it so satisfying.

This trip is turning sour on our characters. They were riding high, but the inability to control themselves is starting to be their downfall. And, with a bunch of kids, you couldn’t have really expected better, even though you might have wished for it. This is another completely compelling chapter of this story. It’s such a neatly done comic even given how messy its contents are. Maybe the characters will wise up before they go too far, but the history of adolescence is not on their side.