kevin hoskinson's Comic Reviews

Reviewer For: Pastrami Nation Reviews: 55
8.1Avg. Review Rating

9.5
On the Stump #1

Feb 9, 2020

On The Stump #1 is a fantastic start to a new series. With interesting characters and danger at every turn, its gearing up to be an exhilarating ride. Its one of my favorite new things, and I cant wait to see where it goes from here.

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9.5
On the Stump #2

Mar 31, 2020

What started as a violent spoof of politics in its first issue, On The Stump quickly blossomed into something more. Brown has created something incredibly unique with this series. In its second issue, it already defies expectations and has become a must-read. I highly recommend checking it out!

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10
Spencer & Locke 2 #1

Apr 28, 2019

The second part of the Spencer & Locke series is off to a great start. With solid writing and a great art style, it's a must-read. It's a smart, intense, suspenseful story full of mystery and action. If you haven't read any of the series yet, go pick up the first collection, then dive into part 2. It's excellent, and I promise you won't regret it.

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9
Spencer & Locke 2 #2

Jun 2, 2019

Another thing that makes a Spencer & Locke story so fantastic is the beautiful artwork by Jorge Santiago Jr and the colors by Jasen Smith. It's so beautiful and fun to look at. It's got an exciting noir feel to it, but it's often contrasted by bright colors and an almost cartoon-like art style at times. It's a beautiful aesthetic.The Spencer & Locke story just keeps getting better and better. With thrilling action, intriguing story, and fascinating villains, there is never a dull moment. I've been invested in the story since the beginning, and I would recommend this series to anybody. Go out and grab this issue and all the ones that came before!

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8
Spencer & Locke 2 #3

Jun 15, 2019

Although it's packed with plenty of action, this issue is one of the most interesting, story-driven issues in the series. We learn more about the heroes, as well as the villain. There are some genuinely surprising twists in the story that you won't see coming. It's a roller coaster ride of emotions, revelations, and action. It's a fantastic read!

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10
Spencer & Locke 2 #4

Jul 6, 2019

It was an absolute blast going on this adventure with Spencer, Locke, Hero, Melinda and even Roach. This final issue brought a satisfying end to this chapter but also left it open for a lot more to come. It was thrilling, exciting, and full of real human emotion. It's everything you could ask for in a book, and I highly recommend picking it up.

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9
A Man Among Ye #1

Jul 26, 2020

Everything about this debut issue is amazing. It's a pirate story through and through. Like the classics, it's a tale of revenge and swashbuckling adventure. I have researched Bonny over the years, and I'm glad we get to see her take shape in this series. As is the case with most first issues, it's a setup for what's to come and getting to know the characters, and it's done incredibly well. Definitely check it out!

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9
Faithless #1

Apr 16, 2019

Faithless is self-described as “An erotic depiction of faith, sex and the devil in the tradition of the divine comedy.” I would be hard pressed to find a better description for this story. Of course, this is just the beginning of Faiths journey. It serves as a great set up for a story that I'm sure will surprise and awe for many issues to come.

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9
Goosebumps: Monsters At Midnight #2

Jan 14, 2018

While the movie captured the spirit of the books, there is something about reading Goosebumps, and seeing it at the same time, that makes sense. The original series of books hit when I was 12 years old, just the right age to jump in and get lost in the world. Reading Monsters at Midnight, the feeling of nostalgia kicked in, and I loved every part of it. This series is off to a great start, and I look forward to reading more.

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9
Haphaven #1

Feb 26, 2019

Haphaven is one of the most imaginative stories I have read. It's got everything: adventure, danger, drama, heart and lots of humor. It's a bundle of everything in one package. I highly recommend checking it out when you get the chance; you won't regret it.

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9
Primer (2020) OGN

Jul 12, 2020

As the father of a young daughter, it's great to see books like this. It is very empowering to that demographic, but also anyone in the age range. Ashley is relatable to kids of all ages, and adults can see a lot of themselves in her when they were younger. Her best friend Luke, is also a great role model for boys who don't follow the status quo and follow their own path. That's what the story of Primer is all about; embracing what makes you different and following your own path. It's a message everyone can relate to.

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9
Going to the Chapel #1

Jul 12, 2019

“Going to the Chapel” is a lot of fun and doesn't hold anything back. It is a romantic comedy, but judging from the first issue, it's going to do very unexpected things. Much like how writer David Pepose's ongoing “Spencer & Locke” series turns the crime noir genre on its head, this series is bound to do the same for the romantic comedy genre. I can't wait to see what's in store for the future of the series. You should be excited about it as well.

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9
Going to the Chapel #1

Sep 5, 2019

"Going to the Chapel" is a lot of fun and doesn't hold anything back. It is a romantic comedy, but judging from the first issue, it's going to do very unexpected things. Much like how writer David Pepose's ongoing "Spencer & Locke" series turns the crime noir genre on its head, this series is bound to do the same for the romantic comedy genre. I can't wait to see what's in store for the future of the series. You should be excited about it as well.

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8
Going to the Chapel #2

Oct 27, 2019

Going To The Chapel is easily one of my favorite new series hitting the shelves, and I'm not alone. Recently, actor and stand-up comic Patton Oswalt has given it his stamp of approval, and it's not hard to see why. It's super funny, action-packed, has great characters, and a unique and exciting premise. Issue #2 takes the story to the next level, and much like the first issue, it just doesn't let up. The pacing is perfect, giving you just the right amount of character moments, comedy, and action. It's a perfect combination, and you really need to experience it for yourself. Go buy this book!!

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9
Going to the Chapel #3

Nov 14, 2019

The sign of a great thriller is that it keeps you guessing, keeps you at the edge of your seat, and keeps you wanting more. David, Gavin, and Liz have accomplished all of these things. Trust me when I say that this issue is probably the best in the series so far, as things are starting to come to a head. Don't sit this one out, definitely pick this issue up!

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9
Going to the Chapel #4

Feb 2, 2020

Going To The Chapel is easily one of the most clever and original new series out there. Each issue upped the ante, and it is very cool to see how it all ends. The finale is about coming to terms with your decisions and doing the right thing. It's a great conclusion to a series that has been an absolute blast since the beginning. I already know I'm going to miss it, but I can't wait to see what comes next from the creators of this charmingly wonderful series.

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9
Punk Mambo #1

Apr 8, 2019

Punk Mambo is the voodoo infused mystery you never knew you needed. It's a fantastic book with a fascinating lead and a great story. My interest in the supernatural, Voodoo and punk rock could very well make me a bit biased, but I would recommend this book to anyone. I'm hooked from the first issue, and I can't wait to see what happens next.

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8
Punk Mambo #2

Jun 3, 2019

Punk Mambo is a series I am getting deeply invested in. Issue #2 keeps the ball rolling in an excellent way. With new characters and new revelations, it's definitely worth a read. I highly recommend it.

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9
Punk Mambo #3

Jul 4, 2019

The artwork by Adam Gorham and Jose Villarrubia is beautiful as always. With this series, they created a vision of areas of the world that we have seen before, but never like this. The characters are so well envisioned, it's tough to find anything wrong with them. It's just about perfect.The combination of a great story, characters, and artwork make this series a great read. It's super fun, very suspenseful and kind of violent, which makes for a great story to me! Definitely check it out!

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9
Punk Mambo #5

Aug 24, 2019

Punk Mambo is an excellent series that everyone should be reading and issue #5 is one of the strongest. Much like the rest it, its full of remarkable characters, excellent writing, and incredible artwork. It is the end of the series, so I couldnt recommend this issue alone if you havent read the rest, but if you have, you will love it!

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8.5
Mr. Beaver #1

Feb 16, 2020

When it comes to great noir-inspired stories, Danger Lab Action Zone has been on a roll. On top of the great Spencer & Locke series, this looks like another hit for the indie comics label. Interesting characters, intriguing story, and fun action make this a great read.

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8.5
This Love So Brief #1

Jun 18, 2019

“This Love So Brief” is an incredible, one of a kind, relatable work of art. Although Fred's life and experiences are unique, it's not hard to find the similarities in our own lives. If you want to read something a bit different that's also full of heart and humor; I can't recommend this book enough. Don't hesitate to check it out.

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8
Amalgama Space Zombie #1

Oct 27, 2019

I enjoyed every page I spent with Amalgama. As stated before, this is a real adult-oriented story; there is nudity and a lot of blood. It's also super fun, charming, intriguing, and one of a kind. This series is off to a great start, and I will be checking out some of the other stories based in this world soon. Give this one a shot; you will definitely have a good time.

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8
Atomic Robo: The Dawn of a New Era #1

Jan 17, 2019

Overall, it is an excellent SCI-FI book for people looking for something a bit different. If you haven't read any books in the series, it will get you interested in reading some past issues, which is precisely what I'm going to do.

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8
Atomic Robo: The Dawn of a New Era #2

Feb 18, 2019

Atomic Robo and the Dawn of the New Era is an excellent book for all ages. It's smart, funny and has a very adventurous edge to it. I highly recommend you give it a read.

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8
Batman/The Maxx #1

Oct 14, 2018

Much like the character of the Maxx himself, this first issue is as weird, twisted, and funny as you imagine it will be. It's exciting, dark, and full of twists and turns along the way. The ending paved the way for more chaos to come, and I'm very curious how it's all going to play out in the future. If this first issue is any indication, it's going to be great!

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8
Coffin Bound #1

Aug 18, 2019

Coffin Bound has a dream-like quality to it, a crazy drug-induced dream, but still a lot of twisted fun. Its a cool story with a compelling protagonist and a terrifying antagonist. Its a world where anything can, and probably will happen. The world may seem familiar, but this story is not. Its a refreshing new twist on the genre, and its one that Im along on the ride for.

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8
Dryad #1

Feb 29, 2020

The first issue of Dryad is a fantastic start to this new series. It's a great story with plenty of adventure and mystery, with a fun family at its core. I look forward to seeing where this series goes.

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8
Godshaper #1

Apr 24, 2017

The first issue of Godshaper is a well written and intriguing story of a dustbowl like future. Ennay is a flawed character, someone who the world doesnt believe deserves a god. He found his own god though, one who is willing to follow him through thick and thin. This is a great first issue, of what I hope is a great series.

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8
Heavy #1

Sep 13, 2020

Heavy #1 is an excellent start to this Vault Comics series. It's pulpy with an existential edge. As mentioned earlier, I felt and related to the themes more so than the story itself, but I still enjoyed the story a great deal. The first issue ends on a very interesting cliff hanger, and I can't wait to see what happens next.

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8
Heavy #2

Nov 8, 2020

At its core, Heavy is an existential character study. It's fun and games on the surface, but it has some interesting questions about the nature of love and life itself. It never gets bogged down by any of this, though, and I'm not even sure if that's the point, but it is to me. This is a wholly unique and interesting world created by Bemis and co-creator Eryk Donovan, and I can't wait to spend more time with it.

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8
Killers #1

Aug 11, 2019

Killers is off to a great start with its first issue. It's a tale of international espionage, but it's unlike any you have ever seen. With fantastic writing, a gripping story and great artwork, it's definitely a book I recommend picking up, and I can't wait to see what happens next!

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8
Lodger #1

Nov 1, 2018

This book certainly appeals to readers of the genre. It is precisely what you think it is. It isnt pretending to be something its not. Lodger is the real thing. Check it out if you get a chance.

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8
Middlewest #1

Nov 18, 2018

This is a great start to a new series. The first issue does a great job setting up the world. The artwork is beautiful, every panel like a painting and the story is intriguing. I look forward to seeing the further adventures of Abel in the Middlewest.

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9
Mighty Morphin' Power Rangers (2016) #1

Mar 3, 2016

The writing in this new series is smart and the artwork is incredibly well done. Combine all of that with an intriguing story, you have a must read series, for fans and newbies alike.

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7
Mighty Morphin' Power Rangers (2016) #2

Apr 17, 2016

One thing that particularly stands out from this series so far is the writing. Being based around high school age students, they are smart and never written as a stereo-type. The typical teenage stuff is there, but its not overwritten to the point of annoying. That is what I like; its fun, takes itself seriously but not too serious, and is an overall fun ride so far.

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8
Pretty Violent #1

Sep 3, 2019

This book is one of the most fun books to come out this year. It has the look of a show you would find on Cartoon Network, and it has the whimsy and humor you would also find on those shows. But, the creative team has taken that to a whole new level to create something truly unique and different. Dont be mistaken, this book is not for kids. Its an adult book that plays on our memories of watching Saturday morning cartoons, and that is never a bad thing. Definitely check it out.

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8
Reaver #1

Jul 14, 2019

With a great story and fantastic artwork, “Reaver” is off to a great start. It's brutal and bloody in all the right ways. The world is alive and vibrant with history and great characters, and it's also full of mystery and has excellent potential. With the essay written by Jordan at the end of the book, this series promises to go in completely different and unexpected places, and I look forward to seeing where that may be.

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8
Reaver #2

Sep 2, 2019

Reaver is an exciting new series from Image Skybound comics. Its filled with adventure, tension, and great characters. Writer Justin Jordan has said previously that each issue will take on a different genre, and I look forward to seeing where they are going to go next. Definitely check it out.

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8
Savage Bastards #1

Jan 27, 2020

Savage Bastards #1 is a good time. While the basic premise may not be breaking new ground, the book is certainly not what I was expecting it to be. With great characters, a fun dynamic at its core, and an intriguing story, this is going to be a series to keep an eye out for.

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8
Sex Death Revolution #1

Oct 22, 2018

The first issue, which actually is a double sized issue with the first TWO issues, hits stores this Halloween from Black Mask. Make sure to check it out when it hits stores!

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8
Show's End #1

Jul 11, 2019

The artwork and color by Jef Sanzinski and Julian Gonzalez are amazing. The look of the characters are distinct, with their big eyes and clearly defined faces. They nail the aesthetic of 1920's America, everything from the clothing and the environments. The colors are never too bright, and they feel perfect for the era.Issue #1 of Show's End is a promising beginning for a new series. It has it all: mystery, drama, adventure, monsters, freaks, and a great story. I look forward to seeing where it goes from here!

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8
Songs for the Dead #1

Oct 1, 2018

The writing is one of the highlights of Songs for the Dead. The dialogue is serious when it needs to be, and often very funny. The artwork is bright and colorful, which is a bit odd considering it's a story about a necromancer, but it works so well. It all blends to make an exciting story, and I can't wait to see where it goes in future issues.

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8
Spencer & Locke #1

Jun 18, 2017

As a whole it flows well, cutting between the modern day and flashbacks seamlessly. If youre looking for something to read that is familiar, but feels like something completely different, Spencer & Locke is for you.

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8
The Freeze #1

Dec 28, 2018

Written by Dan Wickline and with art by Phillip Sevy, this is the start of a great series. The writing is perfect in this book, building up the mystery with every new page. By the end of the book, you know what is happening, but the how and whys remain a mystery, and that is what I loved about it. And I can't wait to read more.

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8
The X-Files: Case Files: The Florida Man #1

Apr 25, 2018

If youre a fan of The X-Files, this book is an easy one to recommend. Even if youre not a fan, and enjoy things a little bit on the weird side, its worth a read.

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7
Acursian OGN

Feb 24, 2021

The Barrowman family and crew have proven that they can tell an amazing and magical story. A few minor complaints aside, Acursian is a fun and exciting journey. If you are into Celtic history and lore and the work of John Barrowman, you should check it out!

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7
Bulletproof Coffin: The Thousand Yard Stare #1

Jun 11, 2017

Without knowing anything about the Bulletproof Coffin series, I can say this book is in a league of its own. This story is about comic creators and its fans. Its also about consumerism, entitlement, paranoia and getting too close to your creations. Reading the book, the amount of pure love that the real Hine and Kane (writer and artist, respectfully) have for comics is made perfectly clear. It is also clear the amount of frustration and distain they have for the craft as well. Its a uniquely honest book, with an entertaining narrative at its core.

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7
Nobody Is In Control #1

May 26, 2019

I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book. Minor problems aside, it's an enjoyable, exciting read. There is a lot to take in here, but if you have the right balance of patience and curiosity, it's a great story. This was an excellent start to the series, and it's premise and mystery is intriguing enough to want to read the next issue.

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7
Snowfall #1

Feb 24, 2016

We are all familiar with the corporate owned government too often seen in futuristic dystopian stories. In Snowfall, we get something a little bit different. We get a glimpse of a world that a government has tried to force its power, but has failed. A world where the weather can be controlled by forces greater than Mother Nature herself. With the first issue, it is an exciting start to what looks to be a promising series.

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7
The Bounty #1

Jul 10, 2016

There are lots of things to like about this first issue, but I especially liked the dynamic between all of the characters. The situations they are put in are dire, but they all work together so well. They interact like they have known each other forever, and I hope in future issues we find out more about who they are, and possibly what some of their real motives are.

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7
Vlad Dracul #1

Sep 1, 2020

Scout Comics Vlad Dracul is off to a good start. It's a heavy read, so you might have to be in the right mindset to really enjoy it. But, it has everything you could ask for from a historical war epic, and I definitely think you should check it out.

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6
Assassin's Creed: Locus #1

Oct 2, 2016

Overall, it was worth the read. But anyone trying to fill the void until a new Assassins Creed game is released, I would recommend looking somewhere else. Hopefully on December 21st, when the Assassin's Creed movie is released, that void will be filled.

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6
From Under Mountains #1

Oct 7, 2015

This series has potential to be a fun, magical, unique look at a world that we have never been introduced to before.

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4.5
The Last Comic Book On The Left #1

Aug 30, 2022

As somebody who regularly listens to the podcast and has seen the boys live, this is an easy recommendation. Its a fun read, with stories short enough to take in small bits at a time. Its bloody, gory, and darkly humorous with a beautiful reverence towards whatever subject matter they are tackling. If you can handle that, then this is worth picking up. Just remember, dont use it as a basis for a new religion or cult; it could get very weird.

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