Save your money and skip X-Force #16. Also, do not even consider picking up the Messiah War trade if you have been waiting for that.

The penultimate chapter of the Messiah War does nothing to improve the crossover event. Buy it at your risk…

I could go on with a longer list of complaints, but it really isn't worth my time. Cyblade #1 is easily one of the most disappointing and boring things I've read all year. That said, this one may be worth checking out in the future once it establishes itself a bit better (andgets anew artist). As it stands now though, it is utterly forgettable.

And here I had thought that Aliens #1 was disappointing…

With all the tie-ins associated with the Secret Invasion I knew that there was bound to be a few duds. I'm just shocked and disappointed that the biggest dud involves some of my favorite characters. Skip this one.

Cable #5 is just a huge disappointment all around. The storytelling is incredibly weak, the art direction is a mess, and the conclusion just left me shaking my head at how ridiculous it was. I thought things would be looking up after a decent showing last month, but, as it turns out, I was wrong.

I realize that my review doesn't say a whole lot, but I can't really elaborate on Dark Avengers #8 without spoiling how Cyclops' plan plays out. And since the whole book is about the plan… I hope you understand.

I can't believe I spent so much time writing about such a bad comic. But hey, at least the series is consistent. Every time it looks to be turning a corner, a bad issue comes out so that they can climb back up and start all over again. The book isn't a total loss though, thanks to the ending and a few worthwhile panels, but it could have been a whole hell of a lot better.

X-Force #15 proves just how flimsy the “Messiah War” story is. While it's cool to see Stryfe and Apocalypse back in action, don't let the nostalgia fool you into thinking the “War” is living up to the hype. The wheels are spinning, yes, but the story is going absolutely nowhere…

Just save your money and skip the Broken TrinityAngelus one-shot. No matter how big a fan you are, it just isn't worth investing in. It comes across as both extremely late to the show and utterly pointless (despite a few high points).

Dead Run #1 looks nice, and that's really the best thing I can say about it. Now that I think about it, my opinion is that the issue should have been used as a template for the opening moments of a Mad Max re-imagining starring Jason Statham rather than released as the debut of a new comic series…

There isn't a whole lot more I can add to this review. This book disappointed me in a big way and I am actually confused as to who the target audience for this really is. I can't imagine that many X-fans are looking for a teen drama when anyone could turn on the TV to find one.

It looks pretty great, but looks can only get a comic so far. Good luck figuring out what's going on in Ms. Marvel #46. Feel free to educate me if you think you've got the War of the Marvels all sorted out.

Simply put, Uncanny X-Men #500 is not the issue that it should have been. The story is average at best, the art is either awful or decent (depending on the page/artist), and it's too early to tell if there is much potential in the arc being set up. What a letdown…

Aliens #1 is a strange, frustrating book. On a technical level it's enjoyable and quite solid, but as a fan I have to say that it is lacking in a few (very) key areas. That said, I'll definitely be sticking around for at least another issue.

If you like the Aliens franchise and want to see some aliens getting killed, then by all means pick up Aliens #2. Just don't buy it expecting anything special… at all.

Overall I found this issue to be quite disappointing and inconsistent. I'll keep reading simply because I find the priest character to be compelling, but I don't think I could recommend this to anyone that has little or no interest in Angel. This one is probably best for fans only.

I can't really recommend this book to anyone but the most hardcore fans. While it is fun seeing the other alternate universes, there is not enough substance or story to justify the $3.99 price tag.

Blood Bowl: Killer Contract is fun, but it really needs some structure and less chaos. The less you think about it, the better this book is. Check it out if you are interested in the concept, but make sure to shut your brain off before diving in.

The art is still inconsistent and soulless, the writing needs to have more personality (though Cable is still interesting enough), and the story has yet to really go anywhere. BUT, while far from a strong issue, it looks as though Cable finally might have some direction. I like the character, as I've said before, so having some direction counts for something. Here's to hoping this is the start of something positive.

Cable #13 pretty much justified and made real my fears about what would happen when Swierczynski and Olivetti took the reigns of an interesting story. I look forward to what's coming next in the Messiah War, but at the same time, not really because of anything that took place in its second chapter. Consider me currently disappointed, but optimistic for the future.

Pick up Dark ReignFantastic Four #3 at your own risk. It looks nice and has some solid moments, but it feels far too much like the last issue to warrant a recommendation.

It is possible to skip this one without missing anything but some great character work. Far from essential to the plot and lacking action, pick this one up only if you have some spare cash after grabbing everything else from the week.

While I will be sticking around to see how the “Hollow” story concludes thanks to the fairly strong finish of chapter five, I can't help but be disappointed with things as a whole. The creative team definitely gets the appeal of Gears and successfully translates it to the page, but the whole thing just feels empty without a compelling story. Maybe things will turn around next month, but I will be sure to keep my expectations in check.

House of Mystery continues to be a frustrating series. Each issue is interesting enough to make the reader want to know what comes next, but it feels like very little is actually happening. It's a shame to see this series sink after what was quite a promising start.

Overall, the Logan series is extremely underwhelming. It has it moments, but not enough of them. It has a great concept, but just doesn't run with it enough to keep it interesting. Other than a couple of nice looking scenes and a few bits of memorable dialogue, I see myself quickly forgetting I ever read this story.

Ms. Marvel #45 is the weakest chapter of the War of the Marvels so far. The twist is something of a wtf moment and the artwork, though it has its merits, is pretty rough.

SPOOKSOmega Team #3 will prove to be either a deal maker or a deal breaker. More of the same may work for some people, but this reviewer was hoping for much more from the series at this point. It's disappointing to see something with so much potential become boring so quickly.

Uncanny X-Men #508 scores points for personality and effort, but ultimately winds up being far more frustrating than fun.

The Sisterhood arc ends decently enough, but Uncanny X-Men #511 is still a below average comic book.

Uncanny X-Men #514 is a pretty decent “X” comic if you can ignore the whole Utopia nonsense. I certainly wish I could…

Overall I feel that X-Force #5 presents an equal measure of the good and bad aspects of this series. It is a decent, but slightly below-average read.

Overall, I cant help but feel that this X-Force special will only satisfy certain types of people. Wolverine and Warpath fans will get a decent enough fix and those looking for some comic book carnage will find themselves satisfied with the mass bloodletting in the Wolverine story, but all the rest can easily skip this book. There is nothing in this book that adds to the current X-Force storyline, the art isnt strong enough to elevate the basic tales, and there is no X-23. If you havent noticed, I was looking for a lot more than I got.

X-MenNoir #1 is ultimately a frustrating and unsatisfying start to a series that is saddled with an unfortunate cover price. While I hate to come down so hard on something that feels quite fresh, it didn't succeed in selling me a story or visuals that I can feel comfortable investing in. Give it a shot if you must, but don't expect to get too much out of it.

Young X-Men has taken a step in the right direction, now I just hope that things continue this way. I want to really like this book and it is improving, but it still has a ways to go before I can whole heartedly recommend it to anyone other than those that started with the series' debut.

The Twelve is doing great things with the “heroes in the wrong time period” story by putting a premium on personality, emotion, and subtlety. Avengers/Invaders, on the other hand, seems to be much more concerned with the chaos of the event as a whole. It will be interesting to see where the creative team goes from here, but I am honestly disappointed how things went off the rails after such a solid start to the story.

The problem with the series falls on the idea that far too many characters are in play to make a single chapter feel satisfying. It really drags the entire project down and makes the plot move at an extremely slow pace, despite characters expressing the urgency of the situation. That is why I am going to consider this latest chapter to be my jumping off point. As for Avengers/Invaders #6? It is entertaining and decent enough to look at, but far from a must read. As such, it is worth picking up if you have stuck around this long, but I doubt many will feel the need to see this series to its end.

What more can I say other than that Gotham After Midnight #11 maintains the status quo. The story remains below average, the visuals remain the highlight, and the series as a whole still feels like it has gone on for too long.

For both good and bad, BatmanGotham After Midnight #12 is…well…a lot more of the same. The art rocks and the storytelling is mediocre…just like in the other eleven issues.

Batman: Widening Gyre #2 is solid enough, but the story definitely needs to pick up a bit before I can fully commit to the entire series.

I'd be lying if I said I wasn't let down by Broken Trinity #2, but I also find myself really looking forward to the conclusion of the event. Here's to hoping that it delivers the action it seems to promise.

I would consider Broken TrinityWitchblade to be something I'd recommendonly to the bigger fans of either Witchblade or The Darkness. I enjoyed my time with it and came away impressed by the character work. However there really isn't anything about it that screams “must read.” Base a purchase around how much emotional investment you have in the Top Cow characters.

As a whole, I was pretty satisfied with this latest issue of Cable. It looks as though things are finally starting to click and I actually find myself looking forward to the conclusion of this arc so the story can move on to bigger and better things. The potential is there, now the writer and artist just need to realize it in the proper way.

I enjoyed the first Dark X-MenThe Beginning book quite a bit more than the second. That said, the second is worth checking out if you're a fan of the characters. If you aren't a fan, then by all means skip Dark X-MenThe Beginning #2, since there's nothing in the book that absolutely must be read in order to get more out of the Utopia storyline.

DeadpoolMerc with a Mouth #1 is worth checking out if you are either A) a fan of the character or B) someone that would rather read a Deadpool book that doesn't pay much attention to the current Marvel U. situation.

If you have been buying the series as it comes out, as I have, you might just want to pick this one up as well. It is a fun read and actually moves the plot forward a little bit (not enough, but still…). All others would be better off just waiting till this arc is collected into one book. I have a feeling it will be much more entertaining that way.

Dynamo 5 #18 is a solid chapter in a good series, but not exactly the shot in the arm I was hoping for. Most of you will be better off just reading this arc as a trade because, quite simply, too little happens from issue to issue.

If you just sort of roll with it, Fusion #1 works in its own unique way in that it harkens back to the '90s. It's mindless and gratuitous, but it's also quite a bit of fun. If you look at it from a critical perspective, it's sure to frustrate, confuse, and maybe even cause a few unintentional laughs. Yeahit's that kind of comic

There isn't much to it, but Fusion #3 is almost certain to please those that are part of its target audience. Fun, yet totally forgettable.

Gotham City Sirens #1 isn't bad, but it isn't all that good either. Guillem March's work is the obvious highlight, but nice artwork can only take a series so far. Paul Dini's got a solid concept to work with. Now he just has to do something interesting with it.

Hack/Slash #12 is an entertaining and fairly attractive, if inconsistent, comic when taken on its own. However, I have come to expect a bit more out of this series than what is offered here. This issue would have worked better as the stand alone crossover it was meant to be.

Hack/Slash #23 is, as I said, decidedly average. It reads well and looks nice, but there are better comics to be spending money on this month.

As a long-time fan of the series, I can't help but find Ms. MarvelStoryteller a bit disappointing. The visuals are lackluster and the plot doesn't exactly go far enough in showcasing a character loaded with potential. That said, there is no denying that it is still a solid, entertaining read. As such, it's worth it for those able to keep their expectations in check.

I wanted to like Alibi as much as I enjoyed Genius, but the storytelling just wouldn't let me. There are some good ideas here and this type of story could go a long way in a comic series, but this issue, taken on its own, feels both incomplete and disjointed. I honestly believe this series could go places, but Joshua Fialkov has made a rookie mistake, chosing a poor place to start a debut issue.

As for the previews, they really don't add a whole lot to the overall package. And since it's tough to establish an opinion about three pages worth of work, I will leave my impressions on hold until I get a full issue in my hands. However, out of all the books launching from Dark Reign, I find myself looking forward to Secret Warriors the most. Jonathan Hickman and Stefano Caselli definitely have the potential to make one hell of a team.

Secret InvasionInhumans #3 scores points for doing something different, but it is still a fairly average book all around. Worth checking out if the characters interest you or the future of the Marvel universe is a concern, but not exactly what I would consider a must-read.

Secret Invasion: X-Men #1 is dangerously close to falling into the “skip” category. The Nightcrawler elements make this one worth it for X-fans, but all other had best keep their expectations in check.

While it's pretty entertaining as a whole, the Spider-Woman: Agent of S.W.O.R.D. #2 motion comic is held back from a higher score by a couple of major annoyances.

Spider-Woman: Agent of S.W.O.R.D. is an entertaining chapter of a solid opening arc for a series, but I can't help but feel that Marvel might have been better off launching with the Astonishing X-Men motion-comic instead.

If you are looking for a slick, fun horror-comedy comic book, you can't really go wrong by picking up The Living Corpse Annual. Then again, there are better comics that can be bought at a much cheaper price.

Overall, Thunderbolts: Reason in Madness is a decent enough read, though hardly necessary. It's worth picking up if you need a Thunderbolts fix (like me), but just make sure to keep your expectations in check.

Satisfying, yet still disappointing, True Believers #5 ultimately leaves me confused concerning the editorial decisions regarding the release of the mini-series as a whole.

As a whole this issue is really nothing special, but it's still a decent read. Brubaker fits in some genuinely funny character moments and the art teams, different for each storyline, make this a nice looking book. As a whole, this issue's the same solid we come to expect from the X-Titles, but also completely forgettable.

Witchblade #118 disappoints mainly because I expected more from this arc. The storyline seemed rich with opportunity for more depth and complexity, but instead, we get a fairly basic, far too tidy conclusion a bit too early. That said, solid writing and excellent, unique artwork still makes this a good read. On a side note, The teaser for the next arc has gotten me intrigued so I hope Marz gives it a bit more room to breathe.

I am definitely going to leave the purchasing decision up to you, the readers, on this one. The comic is solid all around, but with the price of comics today, this one can definitely be skipped without fear of missing much.

I know that's not much of a review written above, but there just isn't a whole lot that needs to be said about Witchblade #128. On a technical level, it's a pretty standard issue of a good series. What that means is that the book reads well and looks absolutely spectacular at times (the “to be continued” page is poster-worthy for sure). As part of an event though, the latest chapter of “The War of the Witchblades” is a bit weak because not enough happens to make Witchblade #128 as satisfying as it could be.

Witchblade #132 works because it takes care of some character issues in an effective way and proves to be a nice start to what looks to be a short, but entertaining arc. While the book isn't exactly a “must read” in any way, it's worth checking out if you are a fan of the Witchblade series.

Blood on the Sands is a solid enough fix for fans of the Top Cow universe, but it's far from an essential read.

All in all, I found myself surprised by the quality of this new issue of X-Force. The plot seems to be moving forward, the dialogue is improving, and the artwork is getting closer to being just right. One final note I must mention is that the cover of this issue is quite deceiving, as there is very little action and Rahne is never shown in her wolf form.

X-Force entertains and frustrates in equal measure. It has interesting ideas and attractive visuals, but really it's making a mess of things from a continuity standpoint. Average at best.

X-Force #10 is definitely what I would call a (very attractive) mixed bag. Why? Because it disappoints as an ending, but succeeds as a beginning. I like where the series is headed, I just wish it didn't have to frustrate so much on the way there.

The second chapter of Necrosha delivers some kick-ass action and a whole lot of mutant fan service, but not much else. If you found yourself unsatisfied or frustrated by the Necrosha one-shot, you will probably feel the same way about X-Force #21

X-Force Annual is only worth picking up if you are dying for another Wolverine or Deadpool story. The creative teams both do a nice job all around, but the Annual belongs in the “only if I have some spare cash” category.”

I wish there was more I could say about X-MenLegacy #226, but there just isn't a whole lot to the book. It's solid all around, but completely unremarkable and far from essential. Consider picking it up only if you are a fan of the characters or want to have a bigger picture of what went down during the Utopia one-shot.

Young X-Men got off to a rough start, but if the conclusion of the first arc in the next issue pays off as it should, this series could finally begin to live up to its potential.

As a conclusion, the book is a fairly satisfying read. It makes good on the prophetic visions seen by Blindfold early on and still manages to have a decent emotional impact. Unfortunately though, the flaws that have plagued the series from the beginning (inconsistent artwork and uneven writing) are still present. While I enjoyed Guggenheim's twisting tale (and applaud the fact that he delivers on the death promised), I never felt that I had any investment in the characters. Simply put, I didn't actually care about what was happening as the stakes got higher and that's never a good sign. Couple that with artwork that is mediocre at best and you have something that is entirely forgettable.

Astonishing X-Men #26 is tough to grade because so much rests on what comes next. The groundwork is in place for a compelling story, but I have no idea what story might wind up being. For the time being I am willing to give Ellis the benefit of the doubt and grant him one issue to do nothing but raise questions without penalty. That said, I can't possibly let Bianchi off the hook quite so easily. The inconsistent visuals are honestly weighing the series down. I give Ellis a B+, but the book gets a…

Not all that it could be, but certainly good enough, AvengersThe Initiative #26 is a worthy chapter of a series that keeps on moving forward at a nice pace.

More Onomatopoeia and less Joker would have earned this book a higher score. That said, I liked what I read (and saw) and am interested in seeing where the story goes from here. Also, I'm pretty sure that this story will be best suited for casual readers as opposed to hardcore fans… but I could be wrong.

I really like the ideas that the second chapter of Dark ReignFantastic Four presents. Hickman, no stranger to high-concept, definitely makes that aspect of the story work. Unfortunately, the book feels only slightly above average as a whole because too much of it ends up feeling like filler. If a better balance can be achieved between the various storylines at work, I really think the mini-series could turn into a must read.

There really isn't a whole lot to Dark ReignFantastic Four #5, but consider it a must read if you are looking forward to Hickman's Fantastic Four run.

The good outweighs the bad, but nothing in the Cabal one-shot is all that essential. It's worth reading for fun or if you just enjoy the characters, but you won't miss anything if you choose to pass on it.

While the latest List one-shot doesn't really do a whole lot with the concept of the Dark Reign series, it excels as a one and done “X” comic. So, in short, it's easy to recommend to X-Men/Namor fans, but not so easy to recommend if you're just looking for something with strong Dark Reign ties.

So I'm certain Paul Cornell is trying to frustrate me. You know what else I'm certain of? That Dark ReignYoung Avengers is going to read much better as a trade than a monthly. I know I'll finish it out as a monthly, but I have a feeling everyone else will be better served by reading it once the mini-series is collected.

Dark X-MenThe Beginning #1 is worth picking up if you're a fan of what Emma's team of X-Men has tooffer. All three stories read well, two out of three look quite good, and one, Paul Cornell's, brings Namor's special kind of awesome in a big way. The problem though is that nothing of consequence happens. If you can handle that and character studies, you'll probably find a lot to like in this book.

Dead @ 17Afterbirth #1 is stylish, intriguing, and surprisingly friendly to new readers, but it does have a noticeable flaw or two. Still, I recommend picking the comic up whether you are returning to the series or checking it out for the first time. You'll probably be glad that you did.

While not quite as strong as other issues, I still consider the Merc's latest story a hell of a fun read. In addition, it serves as a nice, lighthearted appetizer before the Deadpool/Thunderbolts crossover takes the series into darker territory. Check it out.

Deadpool #10 is solid, but it's not nearly as strong as some of the issues that came before it. However, I won't lie; the small fight between Deadpool and Bullseye left me itching for more.

A little more Deadpool would have gone a long way towards making Deadpool #17 a better comic book. While it's far from bad, Deadpool #17 isn't as strong as some of the other issues of Deadpool.

Deadpool #900 is a great value, but none of the stories in the book fall under the must read category. Pick it up if you are a fan of the character.

Deadpool: Team-Up #898 doesn't stand up all that well compared to the series debut. It's still entertaining and worth a look though, especially if you liked the tone and style of Deadpool: Suicide Kings.

While Deadpool: Merc with a Mouth #4 is a lot fun, I'm ready for a new arc to begin.

Flawed but a lot of fun, DeadpoolSuicide Kings #4 is worth picking up if you're sick of all the “serious” Marvel stuff.

DeadpoolSuicide Kings #5 delivers pretty much what I've come to expect from the mini-series. That's good in some cases and bad in others.

Exiles, it's been fun. You all will be missed.

If it sounds like your type of thing, then by all means pick up Fusion #2. If it sounds like your comic book version of hell, then be sure to stay far, far away.

Gears of War #2 delivers some good action and style, but it's severely lacking in the substance department. While it is undoubtedly a fun read for fans of the game, I question whether it really deserves the $3.99 price tag. Something big needs to happen in the next issue to prove that this comic is really something a fan should bother investing in.

A step up for the series, Gears of War #3 provides what the comic adaptation has so desperately needed. On the other hand, I am still not sure whether or not early promises are being kept. At least the action delivers and it all looks pretty nice.

While Gears #6 isn't quite strong enough to stop the series from dropping off my pull list due to the weak storytelling, it's not really the creative team's fault. The visuals do the source material justice, the writing is decent enough despite the limits placed on it (considering that the series takes place in between games one and two), and, as a whole, the book proves to be an entertaining piece of sci-fi action. I recommend it to fans of the game, but urge those checking it out to keep expectations realistic.

Overall, GeNext is off to a good start. There is nothing in this debut issue that is particularly mind-blowing or even original, but options are fairly limited when introducing brand new characters like this. Everything is solid and entertaining enough, but I expect something more substantial next issue.

Pick Gotham City Sirens #2 up for the artwork. The story is nothing special.

Gotham City Sirens #4 delivers a lot more of the same. That's a good thing as far as the artwork is concerned. That's a bad thing as far as the script is concerned.

Hack/Slash #14 is a lot of fun, but could have been better. It scores points for concept, comedy, and future plot potential, but not many as were up for grabs. I expect big things next month, so I hope this one makes good on all the promise it holds.

I was hoping for a bit more from this crossover as a whole, but I have to give credit for how well it is succeeding in advancing the overall plot of the series in a natural manner. There is some good stuff in this issue, and it only looks to get better. I just wish Dr. West functioned as more than just a plot device.

If you can ignore some of the glaring artwork issues, you are sure to find a lot to like here if you are a fan of Hack/Slash or The Re-Animator. While not everything that I hoped for, the conclusion definitely makes up for the arc's slow start.

As a whole, the latest issue of Hack/Slash is entertaining and, as expected, quite solid. My biggest complaint is one of personal preference, so maybe you may get more out of the book than I did.

Incognito #1 is an interesting enough start to what should be a fun, dark series. While not quite as exciting as I had hoped, the issue contains enough hooks to keep me around for the near future. Besides, I expect things to improve quite a bit once Brubaker reveals more of Zack Overkill's world and the characters that inhabit it.

If you just want to be entertained, you really can't go wrong with this one. That said, be sure to keep your expectations in check. This arc is not exactly a high point for the series.

Lockjaw and the Pet Avengers is off to an entertaining, though unspectacular start. I recommend that anyone curious about the series check it out. It's a decent, solid piece of animal-centric entertainment.

With some good and some bad, the latest issue of Ms. Marvel stays above average thanks to a fairly surprising event and effective character work. I can't help but wonder how much better things might have been with a different art team at the helm…but what can you do? It will be interesting to see where the series will go from here.

Ms. Marvel #42 is all about two blondes in LA, talking smack while trading blows throughout the city. There really isn't much more to it than that. Sound like your cup of tea? Then be sure to check it out.

It's a bit too early to say whether Ms. Marvel readers will be the winners after The War of the Marvels is over. It could go either way at this point and Ms. Marvel #43 does little to make me think otherwise.

Ms. Marvel #44 scores the grade it does because the positives barely outweigh the negatives. The artwork, while absolutely worth checking out (it makes one hell of a first impression), is a bit flawed and the story, while interesting and full of action, is problematic from a continuity standpoint.

I wish I could say more, but not a whole lot really happens in New Avengers #52. It definitely has some great moments, but as a whole it feels like a series of starts and stops. As a result, it is frustratingly inconsistent.

New Avengers #55 is, I believe, the start of something good. The artwork is a breath of fresh air and the storyline that begins has the potential to be a lot of fun.

While S.I. #8 mostly fails as the conclusion to a big, bloated, far too lengthy event, I believe it really succeeds as a mechanism for riling up the masses for the new status quo of the Marvel Universe. Truth be told, outside of a few new books set to launch (especially the Jonathan Hickman/Stefano Caselli Secret Warriors title), I really didn't have a whole lot of interest in Dark Reign prior to today. Now, I simply can't wait to see what happens next. That is why I absolutely must give credit where it is most definitely due. It is far from perfect, but it also does what was needed extremely well. And that counts for something.

Overall, Skaar didn't exactly blow my mind, but I did enjoy it for the most part. It really is as though Conan was born in the Marvel universe on an alien planet and I like that concept. This wasn't exactly the strongest way to kick off a new series, but I find myself hooked regardless.

Since it's only $0.99, I recommend giving the first issue of Spider-WomanAgent of S.W.O.R.D. a try. It's a bit slow, but there's definitely a lot of potential. And while it takes a bit to get comfortable with the format, the positives far outweigh the negatives.

The Darkness #77 is just solid all around. The visuals look good, the storytelling is pretty compelling, and the ending is sure to please all fans.

It isn't perfect, but you really can't go wrong with The Darkness #80. If you like The Darkness, monster stories, and entertaining dialogue, be sure to pick it up.

If you like seeing Destroyer living up to his name, then be sure to check out the latest issue of Robert Kirkman's MAX mini-series.

The last part of American Nightmares is about as technically sound as a comic can get. That said, it's a bit boring and lacks the sense of urgency that should leave readers dying for more.

An average issue of The Walking Dead is better than an average issue of…well pretty much anything else. Be sure to keep that in mind when you feel underwhelmed by what T.W.D. #62 offers.

There is a lot to like aboutUncanny X-Men #505, but at times, it feels like it could buckle under its own weight. While the various stories being told at once are interesting, they are moving forward at a pace that is sure to irritate some. In other words, it will leave you wanting more, in ways both good and bad.

Uncanny X-Men #509 is a step in the right direction in almost every way. The flaws still prove to be distracting, but the good manages to outweigh the bad for once.

The second chapter of Utopia feels a lot like the oneshot that introduced the crossover. So much so, that it gets the same grade, but for different reasons.

Welcome to Hoxford #4 is a visceral,slightlydisappointing, conclusion to a well executed horror story. While the artwork leaves a bit to be desired while all the action is taking place, it shouldn't deter anyone interested from giving the series a shot. There is a lot to like about a visit to Hoxford.

There really isn't anything more to say about the latest issue of Witchblade. As a place to jump on board, it works great. It just doesn't have a whole lot to offer series regulars.

Old Man Logan, while action-packed at times, continues to employ slow-burn storytelling. While it works well enough for me (and I can mostly bear the wait), I suspect that most readers will find this issue a bit lacking, considering how long they had to wait for it. This may be a good book, but it doesn't exactly move the plot forward a whole lot.

Wolverine #70 rocks as long as you don't think about it too hard. That said, in regards to the grade, I still have to acknowledge the lingering disappointment that exists in the wake of the big reveal. My suggestion? Just open it up, soak in the bloody visuals, and enjoy the ride…

It's nice to see X-Force get back into the swing of things. Once it settles down a bit, I'm sure the series will regain its spot as one of the best “X” books

A comic like X-Force #19 is tough to grade. It does a lot right, yet for a couple of reasons, it never manages to come together in a satisfying way.

Messiah War definitely gets off to a slow start, but things pick up well enough by the time the first chapter reaches its conclusion. I look forward to seeing where things go next. Hopefully it involves more Deadpool.

X-Men Vs. Agents of Atlas #2 is a visually impressive, entertaining conclusion to a fun mini-series. It doesn't really do anything new, but chances are you probably won't mind.

Overall, this was another good outing for X-Men: Legacy that is tripped up only by the pace at which it is moving. That said, the writing and artwork are strong enough to keep things gripping even when it feels as though it's relying too much on X-Continuity knowledge

A strong ending keeps the third chapter of “American Son” on par with the rest of the arc. It's not perfect, but it's definitely worth reading.

While it's got some flaws, the penultimate chapter of American Son is still worth checking out. Kelly's been on a roll lately and for the most part, American Son keeps that rolluhrolling.

The good outweighs the bad in Astonishing X-Men #29, but not by as much as I'd like. The writing rocks for the most part, but the book as a whole is weighed down by the art and the pacing.

Good, but still not great. That's the best way to describe both the issue and the crossover that it is involved in. A lot of it works, but enough of it doesn't to keep it from earning higher than a…

Keep an eye out for this series when it hits stores over the summer. While there will be some growing pains, it has a lot of potential. If the writers can scale back the attempts at humor a bit in favor of a more coherent story, I see good things in store for those willing to give this a chance. If you like mercenaries or are a fan of team books, check out Contract. Issue #0 is in stores now and Issues #1 and #2 are slated for July and August, respectively. For more information on Contract or how to order the books, head over to First Salvo Production's site.

Also, on a side note, Dark Avengers is starting to feel a bit too much like Warren Ellis' Thunderbolts. While that's not necessarily a bad thing considering how awesome the Ellis, Deodato, and Beredo run on Thunderbolts was, it wouldn't hurt if the creative team put some more space between the two series in some way. That said, I understand it might be difficult considering that Dark Avengers has the same art team and many of the same characters that Thunderbolts had.: There's a lot to like about Dark Avengers #4, but considering how fast it moves, it'll be up to you to decide whether or not it's worth the asking price.

Dark ReignNew Nation serves up a nice taste of the new Marvel offerings, but it is far from essential. Just know what you are getting into if you choose to buy it. I found it to be worthwhile, especially considering that it helped establish my level of interest towards a few things. That said, the price point does sting a bit now that I've thought about it a bit more.

Dark ReignYoung Avengers stands out because it really feels like something unique. If Paul Cornell can develop the plot a bit more next issue, I think I'll be looking forward to seeing more of the Dark Young Avengers in the future.

I'll openly admit that I was late to the Dynamo 5 party, but am I ever glad I decided to show up. While I am a bit disappointed with where things may be headed, this is still one of the best reads out there. Jay Faerber's story about the illegitimate children of Captain Dynamo is a great combination of clever writing, slick art, and lots of heart. The characters have depth, the action is well done, and the concept alone is worth the price of admission. If you haven't been reading it, do yourself a favor and pick up the two trades so you can see what all the fuss is about.

For the most part, you really can't ask for a whole lot more from a #1 issue. If you are into supernatural stories or the noir genre at all, Echoes of the Damned may be right up your alley. Give its promising debut a shot.

Hack Slash #15 is a solid start to what I hope will turn into a great story. The necessary background is given, the pieces are moved into place, and the guest-star is (for the most part) used quite well. While not quite as strong as I was expecting, it holds loads of potential. Hack/Slash and horror fans in general should make sure to give this one a look.

King-Size Cable #1 does a whole heck of a lot right, but it stumbles just before the finish line. If you can stomach that, then by all means give this entertaining book a read. As a side note, let me just say that Cable has got to be one of the most frustrating series I have ever invested in. It does just enough to keep me hooked, but always, it manages to let me down in some way month in and month out. One of these days everything is going to click, I just hope that day comes sooner than later.

Overall, I can't help but feel a bit disappointed with this latest issue because of the baggage that it carries. The Nick Fury storyline kicked off on a really high level last issue and it was disappointing to see this story do little more than assemble a new team in a pretty generic fashion. I understand the story had to be told, however, and the excellent art and dialogue kept things rolling smoothly throughout. Know what you are getting into with this issue and I think you will find it satisfying.

While a few of the technical aspects keep the latest issue of Moon Knight from a higher score, I definitely enjoyed my time with it.

Despite it's flaws, Ms. Marvel #32 is an interesting, compelling start to what could easily turn into one heck of a story. It moves a bit too fast and the artwork annoys, but this one still makes an impact. Check it out.

As an almost stand-alone story or as a sequel to the Annual, Ms. Marvel #34 works extremely well. But as a part in a much bigger story, it feels quite disconnected from the chapters that came before it and somewhat unsatisfying. I recommend it based on the strength of the character work and the art, but hesitate to call it a good piece of the current Ms. Marvel puzzle. See why it is so hard to grade?! I think I'll go with…

With that said however, Secret Invasion #6 is still a fun read. This is summer blockbuster styled entertainment and it makes no effort to really hide that fact. The writing is tight (and suitably cheesy at times), the action delivers (but has yet to actually begin), and the pieces are in place for one hell of a conclusion. The real battle is about to start and I simply can't wait.

More Terror would've definitely been a good thing.

While the wonky artwork proves at times, distracting, it doesn't hurt the quality of an otherwise enjoyable comic too much. There is something about the fairly simple story and effective use of color that kept me glued to the pages. It definitely could have been better, but nonetheless, I liked it well enough.

While The StandAmerican Nightmares #2 is quite impressive on a technical level, it proves to be a rather unsatisfying chapter in a much larger work.

The Messiah War is definitely gaining momentum, but it's still a ways behind the Messiah Complex in terms of both scope and excitement.

The Warren Ellis/Phil Jimenez era of Astonishing X-Men is off to a fine start. I look forward to seeing what the team has in store for us next. Also, on a personal note, I believe that the word “gauche” totally needs to be used in more comics.

Light on story, but packed with lots of X-Men action, Astonishing X-Men #32 is definitely worth your time and money if you're a fan of Warren Ellis or Phil Jimenez or both.

AvengersThe Initiative works best when the creators are really playing in the Marvel sandbox. The latest issue is a prime example of why that is. Worth checking out, even if you've had your fill of Skrulls.

The creative team behind The Initiative handles a necessary transition in a natural, entertaining, and surprisingly emotional manner.

While it has a few kinks, BatmanCacophony is definitely proving to bea fun series to follow, especially for a casual fan like me. If the final issue shows as much improvement as the second one did, Cacophony might even wind up being somewhat memorable.

Broken TrinityAftermath is a worthy addition to any Top Cow fan's collection. While the stories included in the one-shot are short, they are each worth a look. Especially considering that Finn and Glorianna may be major players in the universe sooner rather than later.

I highly recommend this one to Darkness fans (or those interested in a good comic), but don't feel that it is a necessary chapter for those solely interested in the Broken Trinity event. It is an enjoyable read, but fans who have any knowledge of the Darkness/Witchblade/Angelus saga will find that the tie-in aspects of this book feel incredibly familiar (rehashed, even).

If you can get pass the generic “beginning to a crossover” feel that dominates the book, Cyberforce/Hunter-Killer #1 is well-worth checking out. Mark Waid's got some cool ideas in play and Kenneth Rocafort's work deserves to get noticed.

While it's not all that it could be, I still recommend the latest issue of Dark ReignFantastic Four. It looks great, reads well, and runs on a number of cool ideas.

While it's got a few flaws, Sinister Spider-Man #2 is still one hell of a fun comic book. Most of the visuals are incredibly stylish and edgy, the dark humor works extremely well, and the overall personality the book has makes it easy to overlook some of the problems I mention in the review.

The Sinister Spider-Man mini-series continues to rock pretty hard. It brings the funny and features some slick artwork.

Dark Reign: The List – Wolverine is worth picking up as long as you don't mind that Wolverine takes a back seat to others for most of the comic.

Dark X-Men: The Beginning #3 isn't flawless, but the best of the mini-series was definitely saved for last. I recommend checking it out if you're looking for some short, cool stories.

I strongly urge all Marvel fans to at least give Deadpool #1 a look. The book does a nice job reintroducing a fan-favorite to the masses, and the it's refreshing and unique despite the fairly predictable Secret Invasion framework. While I do have my complaints, there is something to be said about a book that is just flat-out entertaining…and this one is.

Deadpool #9 works better as an issue of Deadpool than it does as the third chapter of “Magnum Opus.” I found it to be extremely entertaining (hence the high grade), but couldn't really shake the fact that it didn't lend itself well to the whole crossover thing. It just seems like “Magnum Opus” could be (or should have been) so much more.

Do you like Deadpool? Do you like Pirates? If you answered yes to one or both of those questions, then be sure to pick up the latest issue of Deadpool. I doubt you'll be disappointed.

Deadpool #14 delivers pretty much everything someone could ask for in a comic about the Merc with a Mouth. It's funny, it's a bit silly, it's action scenes are pretty cool (and suitably violent), and it tells a story that could only really work with Deadpool as the lead character.

Deadpool continues to be one hell of a fun series. If you aren't reading it than you're definitely missing out on one of Marvel's best monthlies.

If you're in the mood for a bit more Deadpool, Merc with a Mouth #3 is definitely worth checking out. The book is a whole lot of fun and a solid addition to your weekly reading list.

Deadpool: Merc with a Mouth #5 is a pretty wild, funny ride from start to finish. It reads well, it looks great, and it highlights why Deadpool is such an entertaining character.

While not quite a strong as the first two issues, Exiles #3 is still well worth your time and money.

The artwork in Exiles #4 works a lot better than I had expected. While I prefer Salva Espin's style, Casey Jones' work definitely doesn't feel out of place. Jones handles all the action well and brings out the personalities of the characters in a way that elevates Parker's handle on the team. The more I think about it, I feel that Jones' more realistic style might prove to be more effective than Espin's in the long run; now that Parker seems to be moving the Exiles down a darker path.: I recommend picking up Exiles #4. It's satisfying for regular readers and it can function as a nice jump on point for new readers.

Exiles #5 delivers everything I've come to expect (not 100% a good thing) from a Jeff Parker Exiles book. If you've enjoyed the series so far, why not stick it out till the finale next month?

Action junkies and Gears fans should really take the time to check out this comic. It faithfully translates everything that made the game such a success into an enjoyable, visually impressive book. A mindless, yet pleasant surprise in every way.

High marks all around for the first GotG tie-in for the War of Kings, especially considering how I initially approached the issue with quite a bit of hesitation. Now, in addition to looking forward to more of the usual Guardians goodness, I find myself more interested in the cosmic War than I had ever thought possible. Not sure if my wallet is particularly happy about that fact…

Hack/Slash #13 does a lot to accent the Bump crossover storyline and I am really happy with how things concluded. Even if the last issue let you down as it did me, be sure to check out this latest issue it definitely makes up for last month's shortcomings.

Hack/Slash #18 is very good when dealing with Cassie and Vlad. On the other hand, it definitely loses a bit of momentum anytime anything else takes the spotlight. That said, the good most definitely outweighs the bad in what ultimately amounts to a strong, character-driven issue of an entertaining series.

Hack/Slash #21 is a surprisingly funny installment to an extremely entertaining series. While some may find themselves a bit irked by the returns, I believe most will be forgiven by the time they hit the cliffhanger of an ending. I look forward to seeing where Tim Seeley and his creative team take things from this point on.

As for this issue, I agree with Jason on every point made, though I don't think I could possibly trade wait something that is so consistently entertaining even if it isn't exactly what I expected. The art is extremely well done, the relationships are developing nicely, and I really like how it shows what's in store for someone who manages to leave the house. It finally feels as though the story is starting to go somewhere and I believe things will only get stronger from this point on. House of Mystery #3 is a fun read, just make sure to keep expectations in check. Don't let the awesome cover art deceive you into thinking this “House” is all about horror.

Eventually, Swierczynski is going to have to find his own voice on this series, but I like how things are going so far. The story is interesting, the art fits nicely, and I think there is definitely potential for things to get even better. Take some time to check this one out.

While I like Incredible Hercules #119 quite a bit, the issue is weighed down by the poor art direction. I can understand what Sandoval and his team were going for, but there is just too much going on in nearly every scene. That said, I am still enjoying the hell out of this tie-in and can't wait to see how the team handles Kly'bn, the Skrull God.

Despite the fact that it doesn't advance the plot a whole lot, Invincible Iron Man #12 is still one hell of a read. A read that is best read while trying to ignore the hideous faces that pop up from time to time. In all seriousness though, Invincible Iron Man should be on everyone's pull list. That alone should tell you that issue twelve is worth checking out. And if that doesn't convince you then the promise of a scene with Namor shouting, “Imperious Rex,” as he blasts Iron Man should.

Great writing and disappointing artwork is pretty much par for the course when talking about Invincible Iron Man. In that respect, I.I.M. #13 hits par. But it's not like that's a bad thing when talking about a series that's so damn strong.

Sure it's a bit slow, but Invincible Iron Man #14 is still a clever, intelligent, and compelling slice of entertainment that's well worth it's cover price.

If you like what Matt Fraction is doing, then you are going to find quite a bit to like about Invincible Iron Man #16. If you're against the whole “World's Most Wanted” thing, then I suggest sitting out until Fraction's through telling his entire story.

It's not perfect, but Invincible Iron Man #17 delivers more of what's so great about World's Most Wanted.

Kick-Ass #6 isn't really going to change any minds about the series, but it delivers for the fans. And that's what matters most sometimes.

It may not be my thing, but Marvel Divas #2 is still a quality book.

Mercy Sparx #1 is a promising, fun debut for a character loaded with potential. If a sexy, bounty hunting, metal-head of a demon sounds interesting, be sure to pick this one up.

Mercy Sparx continues to be a fun series that gets by largely on its cool concept and attractive, stylish visuals. If you've liked it so far, I'm sure you will end up liking where the series goes next. In my humble opinion, Mercy Sparx is a keeper.

Now that I'm caught up on Moon Knight, I find myself looking forward to this arc. I never considered myself to be a fan of the character, but, depending on how things turn out, I just might need to change my mind. I know Moon Knight and the Thunderbolts are pretty low on the Marvel totem pole, but give this one a shot. I think you'll be pleasantly surprised.

I have to admit that I enjoyed Ms. Marvel #28 quite a bit more than I expected to – even though it was nothing other than one extended fight scene. After the disappointing turn of the events last issue, I was fully prepared for an issue full of regret and angst. Instead, I got a action-packed issue of Ms. Marvel kicking some Skrull ass all around Manhattan and that, my friends, is a good thing. The writing consists mostly of Ms. Marvel doing some trash talking and narrative, but it works given the context. As for the art, Adriana Melo shows why she is a rising star. Her Ms. Marvel looks awesome and she capably handles an issue long fight scene with no problems. This issue does one thing, but does it well, so check it out if you are in the mood to see one of the Secret Invasion battles.

Had this tie-in been set to go on for another month, I would have mentioned that things were dangerously close to becoming stale. Instead, I get to say that the “Battle of Manhattan” has been one of the best Invasion tie-ins, and it does a nice job of setting Ms. Marvel up for the future.

It is still far too early to judge this story as a whole, but I like what is happening so far. Ms. Marvel fans should find a lot to like here, even if it lacks the usual superheroics.

I'm definitely a fan of the new Ms. Marvel. Karla Sofen adds a lot to the series, as does Brian Reed's intriguing storyline.

Be sure to give Ms. Marvel #40 a shot. It looks mighty fine, advances an interesting story, and gives Karla Sofen the spotlight the character deserves.

It's always nice to see a series gain and maintain positive momentum heading into a major arc. Bring on the War of the Marvels!

There is a lot I liked about the latest issue of The New Avengers. Chris Bachalo's art was impressive, Billy Tan continued to show improvement, and Brian Michael Bendis made the beginning of the search for a new Sorcerer Supreme quite compelling. While I'm sure some will be a bit irked by the team meeting (or the art team changes), the good stuff ultimately outweighed the bad by a large margin.

No Hero is quickly becoming a favorite of mine. I just hope that sooner than later, more is done to really solidify the plot that is emerging.

Despite a few wonky looking scenes and a less than surprising plot twist, No Hero #6 manages to deliver almost everything I've been waiting for. It's smart, it's brutal, and it's very entertaining.

The Pilot Season leaves me with quite conundrum. Without a doubt, Urban Myths scores one of my votes, but I can't quite decide which book will get the other. Genius scores big points because of an incredibly unique premise and a solid storytelling foundation. The Core scores well because I know that Hickman is a capable writer and I really enjoy the visuals/character designs. I'll make up my mind one of these days, but, in the meantime…

A Red Mass for Mars #3 is a good comic all around. The artwork looks great, the action scenes kick ass, and Hickman's Superman Mars is a character well-worth reading about.

Secret InvasionThor #3 is pretty much everything you might expect from the title alone. That said, it proves to amount to more than the sum of it's parts, thanks to the writing and artwork. It works for me, but it is far from essential.

Secret InvasionWar of Kings works as an entertaining, action-packed prologue to the War of Kings event. While it has a few flaws, I really enjoyed my time with it. If you are a fan of the Inhumans or are thinking of investing in the cosmic crossover, consider it a must read.

The biggest compliment I can give Larry Hama and his art team is noticing that they definitely have a vision for what type of book Omega Team is going to be. While it doesn't look as though it will rise above “monster of the month” level of storytelling anytime soon, that doesn't make things any less enjoyable. The action is clever, the visuals are quite attractive, and the characters could turn out to be fairly unique (though Bettina definitely looks like a buff version of Cassie Hack, another Seeley project). Eventually, this series is going to have to aim a bit higher if it hopes to avoid getting stale, but for the time being it's best to just strap in and enjoy the ride.

Overall, I really enjoyed the first chapter of this unique Namor story. Good writing and great artwork come together to make for a compelling book, but I can't shake the feeling that this one might end up working better as a trade. My recommendation? Check out this first issue and see if it's something you would rather read all at once or as a monthly series.

Art issues aside (though I wouldn't say the art is bad in any way), Terror Inc. Apocalypse Soon #3 is well worth reading. David Lapham continues to do a great job with the Terror character and the plot twist that's introduced gives the mini-series a nice bit of momentum as it heads towards a conclusion.

The Darkness scores again with another entertaining issue as Hester and Broussard continue their run on one of the more under appreciated series out there. Give this book a look, you'll be glad you did.

The Darkness #78 isn't groundbreaking or particularly exciting, but it delivers as a solid piece of entertainment. The art impresses and the writing effectively sets the stage for the next chapter of The Darkness.

It's a bit formulaic, but The Darkness #79 is entertaining as hell. I look forward to seeing what Jackie Estacado's team can do.

I have a feeling that you'll be having too much fun with Destroyer #3 to notice the flaws.

Destroyer #5 left me completely satisfied. That said, it's going to disappoint some people.

American Nightmares #4 is very good, but it's also pretty slow. If you've been following The Stand from the beginning, then you should already know what to expect.

Great character work more than makes up for the weak twist in The Walking Dead #67.

Invasion fans and those concerned with the future of the Marvel Universe will definitely want to pick this one up. It goes extremely well with the seventh chapter of the main event and hints at what the future holds in store.

Some books struggle through transitional periods, but Thunderbolts clearly is not one of them. The action is intense, the dialogue is a blast to read, and Marvel's least heroic team continues to be a source of great, edgy entertainment. Thunderbolts #127 is well worth checking out for a good time, especially if you are interested in seeing how the groundwork for Dark Reign is being laid out.

Art issues aside, Thunderbolts #137 is a great one-and-done story about some of the more underappreciated characters of the Marvel Universe.

I recommend this one for those looking for something a bit different from a Marvel book. That said, be sure to track down the previous three issues before checking out chapter four. The story is a bit dense and needs to be read from the start.

It may sound like I am coming down fairly hard on this first issue, but I really enjoyed what it had to offer. The concept is great, the writing is solid, and the art visually attractive. I can't ask for much more than that.

War Heroes #3 has a few problems and sort of falls into the “style over substance” category since it's so heavy on action, but that shouldn't stop you from picking it up. As I said before, the foundation of the series is based on a cool concept. One that's definitely worth following.

There are really two ways one can look at a book like Welcome To Hoxford. On one hand it can be considered a shallow, empty, and, ultimately, unnecessary addition to the horror genre because there seems to be limited storytelling potential. On the other hand, one can dive into the thick atmosphere and unsavory characters because, to my knowledge, there aren't many books like this available. Templesmith is a proven storyteller so, for the time being, I am going to give him the benefit of the doubt and enjoy Welcome To Hoxford for what it is (instead of worrying about what it might be).

Ron Marz's dialogue is another highlight. The zealots are sufficiently unnerving, the interaction between Pezzini and her boyfriend Gleason is both darkly humorous and touching, and Dani is realistically smitten with her new guy. Also, the recently introduced crime scene forensics character, Chandrakhar, is quickly becoming one of my favorite supporting characters in any comic.The storyline is quite interesting, if a bit unoriginal. Religious zealotry is a fairly common storyline device and, had things gone differently in this issue, I may have questioned the need for it in the first place. The characters and art are driving the story more than the plot itself, which isn't a bad thing, but things should start to improve in the plot department if the final pages are any indication. One last thing worth noting regarding the storyline is that with Witchblade #116 serving as a re-launch of sorts for the series, it is somewhat surprising to find #117 hinting at a very continuity heavy st

I consider Witchblade #123 to be a very pleasant surprise. It managed to exceed my expectations while successfully sowing the seeds for the future in a very interesting way. I look forward to seeing what happens next. As such, consider Witchblade #123 to be well worth picking up.

The latest Witchblade is a must read for fans looking to pick up the rest of the series event. While some of the exposition might feel a bit dull, it's vital to the story and is coupled with some really nice visuals.

I wish I could say more about Witchblade #127, but I'm sort of at a loss for words. It features an entertaining, well-executed fight scene and ends in a way that will leave fans begging for more. The dialogue is solid all around, the visuals look mostly great, and the storyline is playing out in a way that should please new and longtime fans alike. If I said much more, I would be ruining the surprises of the issue, so just go pick it up if you are a fan of the series.

Witchblade #129 is a must read comic for fans of the series. It looks great, packs some nice surprises, and will leave you wanting more.

The first Witchblade Annual presents two very different, though quite decent stories in a way that should please both new and longtime fans. I recommend checking it out if you like Witchblade or have wanted to give it a try.

The great-looking Giant-Size Old Man Logan definitely caps Millar's Wolverine arc well. That said, I'm not entirely convinced it's worth the price tag. Check it out, but just be aware that, outside of the visuals, you aren't getting as much as you might think for your five bucks.

Overall I recommend this one-shot for any Wolverine fan looking for a quick fix. The stories are all solid, the different art styles keep things fresh, and David Lapham shows that he has a nice grasp on both Wolverine and the effect he has on people.

As for the artwork, Clayton Crain has finally found a good look for body structure. His character movements seem much more natural, too. The action is also much easier to follow than previous issues, with storytelling elements stepped up. This is particularly apparent with the Wolfsbane sequences, which come across as brutal and striking. If you were waiting for X-Force to finally find its “x factor” (no pun intended), the wait is over. All signs point to this issue being a turning point for the series and I can't wait to see where the story goes from here.

While it isn't breaking any new ground or amounting to more than the sum of its parts, X-Force is a solid, dependable source of entertainment for X-Men fans. This is continues that trend.

X-Force #18 gives readers everything they should be looking for in an issue of the popular X-Men series. Pick it up!

More Atlas is always a good thing, but I can't help but be disappointed by the fact that someone felt that the Agents needed to conform to the X-Men style.

Overall, I really enjoyed this issue of X-Men: Legacy despite the few storytelling kinks. I really like Carey's portrayal of the characters and the different sequences feature some strong artwork that keeps me hooked even if it's regarding some X-Men history I have yet to catch up on.

For those that have stuck with his occasionally confusing story, Mike Carey's story comes full circle and the bread crumbs he has dropped throughout the last few issues lead to a great payoff . As usual for this series, this issue features two different art styles, one for the present situation (strong, but marred by some silly facial expressions) and one for scenes taking place in Xavier's mind (fantastically surreal and incredibly impressive). This is another strong issue and I expect great things to come out of the big reveal on the last page.

X-MenLegacy #227 isn't all that great (and far from essential) as a tie-in. Regardless, it is a rather good X-Men book. If you are a fan of the characters (like I am), then consider the latest Legacy to be worth picking up.

This visually attractive, high quality one-shot does everything it needs to do in order to get readers interested in the Original Sin crossover. While nothing groundbreaking, it provides the necessary background and enough hooks to grab those willing to check it out. Definitely worth a look for “X” fans or those already picking up either XMenLegacy or WolverineOrigins.

Amazing Spider-Man #606 and #607 are extremely fun comics that should please pretty much anyone. While the art problems are worth noting, they don't bring down the overall quality of the creative package all that much.

An extremely entertaining chapter in what is quickly becoming a fantastic sci-fi story. The only thing holding this one back is the inconsistent artwork, but what damage it does is far from critical. This one's worth it for the story alone.

AvengersThe Initiative is at its best as a series when the creators truly embrace the concept of the Initiative program. That is exactly what is happening in the Secret Invasion issues and I really couldn't be much happier with the result. Visual complaints aside, this is one of the best Invasion tie-ins on the stands.

AvengersThe Initiative #20 is a prime example of why I consider the series to be one of the best that Marvel puts out. If you haven't checked it out already or bailed during Secret Invasion, now would be a great time to get on board. The character work is fantastic, the artwork is almost always strong, the storylines are compelling, and the impressive size of the rotating cast always keeps the series feeling incredibly fresh and unpredictable.

AvengersThe Initiative #23 is just an extremely solid comic book all around. I highly recommend it, especially if you have been a fan of the series for a while.

Despite a flaw here and there, AvengersThe Initiative #24 is a damn fine chapter in a very good series. I highly recommend it.

Consider this a must read if you have any interest at all in the future of the Top Cow universe. The battle is epic, the conclusion is indeed fatal, and the future is shown to be loaded with potential.

A fine package of storytelling, artwork, and character moments, Captain Britain and MI:13 #8 is well worth the cash. Be sure to check it out if you are looking for something from a different corner of the Marvel Universe.

Despite being almost overwhelming at times, the latest issue of Captain Britain is loaded with high-quality, high-concept entertainment. And, while it isn't the greatest jump-on point if you haven't checked the series out yet, it's strong enough to make hunting down back issues a worthwhile endeavor. Consider it highly recommended.

I really can't recommend Captain Britain enough. The writing is damn near perfect, the artwork is always pleasing, and the stories are a brilliant mix of insane and intelligent. It's just good stuff all around.

You can rest assure that the creative team behind Captain Britain is in no way half-assing the final issues of a tragically canceled series.

Cyberforce/Hunter-Killer #2 is well worth picking up. Kenneth Rocafort's artwork is great and Mark Waid's definitely got some cool ideas driving the story along.

Dark Avengers fans… it's safe to come back to the series now.

Sinister Spider-Man #4 rocks pretty hard. Be sure to pick up the inevitable trade if you haven't been following the Dark Reign mini-series.

By injecting some (much needed) fun into the Skrull invasion, Deadpool joins Ms. Marvel and Black Panther as a prime example of how to use event trappings to the fullest. Well worth picking up.

It's probably going to leave you feeling uncomfortable at times, but don't let that stop you from checking out one of the most entertaining books on the week.

While I'm not quite excited about the destination, getting there should be a pretty cool ride if Deadpool #15 is any indication.

What else can I say? Exiles is now the latest addition to my pull list. Take a chance with the first issue, I think you will be more than pleasantly surprised.

Exiles #2 manages to maintain nearly all of the momentum generated by the strong debut. I highly recommend that you give the series a chance while it's still early enough (and easy enough) to get into it right from the beginning.

Even if the whole Gotham City Sirens thing isn't up your alley, you really should take the time to check out Gotham City Sirens #3. It's basically a great looking one-shot about a cool character.

A perfectly executed re-print, Hack/Slash #1Halloween Treat is a must have for fans and a great read for those that have yet to give the series a shot.

Hack/Slash #24 is one of the best issue of the series in a while. The dialogue is sharp, the artwork is well worth checking out, and the storyline shows lots of promise. I can't wait for the double-sized Hack/Slash #25!

What's Good and What's Not So Good: Thanks to some effective character work (feel good to get that off your chest Vlad?), a cool story, and the sexy, stylish artwork of Bryan Baugh (you can officially consider me a fan), the action-packed Hack/Slash #25 ends the best arc the series has had in quite some time. While Baugh's work is the star of the show, Tim Seeley does a nice job of adding an extra layer of depth to the Hack/Slash universe through both the plot and the dialogue.

Hack/Slash #26 is a fun book that deserves to be given a look. Do yourself a favor and pick it up.

If you haven't noticed by now, I really enjoyed this issue of The Incredible Hercules. I will definitely go back to catch up on what I missed, but not necessarily because I felt like I missed something. The writing is so strong that I was instantly drawn into Herc's story and only feel like I need to go back because I know I won't be able to wait a month for the next issue. If you have been hesitant about this series up until this point, now is the time to get in on the action. Not only does it have to do with the Secret Invasion, but it also proves why The Incredible Hercules has become such a critically acclaimed series.

Clever and hilarious, Incredible Hercules #129 is a creative success all around. While light on story, it more than makes up for it by being a whole lot of fun.

The Incredible Hercules #130 is a MUST READ for history, mythology, or philosophy fans. It's absolutely loaded with good stuff.

The Invincible Iron Man continues to be a must read series thanks to Matt Fraction's masterful handling of Tony Stark and his supporting cast. If you haven't jumped on board yet, now is the perfect time to add the series to your pull list.

Fraction once again delivers the goods as “World's Most Wanted” continues to be one of the best things to come out of the Dark Reign period.

I know I'm not going to change any minds that aren't open to giving Pet Avengers #2 a chance But it is seriously worth giving a chance. It's good, mostly clean (remember that there's poop jokes) fun.

Even though Marvel Divas isn't a series for your average fanboys, it's definitely one unique and creative piece.

At only 99 cents, you really can't go wrong in checking out the premiere of Mercy Sparx. I enjoyed the hell out of it and I'm fairly certain you will to. The October debut can't come soon enough.

I highly recommend checking Mercy Sparx out for those of you looking for something you simply can't get from Marvel or DC. The character is interesting, the artwork is perfect for the tone of the story, and the long-term potential is definitely present. I can't wait for more Mercy.

If the Black Panther tie-in hadn't gotten off to such an incredibly entertaining start, Ms. Marvel #29 would easily be the best SI related story of the week. While it doesn't add a whole lot of narrative to the Invasion story (though it might, given how it ends), it brings the goods in the action department. Well worth checking out.

I highly recommend checking out Ms. Marvel #38. It's a fresh start for a series that deserves a few more readers and makes for a great jump on point.

I really enjoyed New Avengers #42, but know I would have been a bit lost had I not caught up with the series when I started really investing in the Marvel Universe. This is a good story, but it's really only a piece of a larger puzzle, so be aware you aren't getting a complete story with this issue. If there's any downside, it's that Bendis expects the reader to do some homework to truly appreciate his story. If you are as hooked on the Secret Invasion as I am, consider this a must read, but make sure to do your homework first.

I sincerely hope that Genius gets a chance to continue. The stage is set for what could be an epic story and I really want to know more about the central characters. If you spot this one at the comic shop, pick it up. It is a unique, mature story that will probably hook you like it did me.

While I could nitpick about how the artwork is a bit inconsistent or how Reed may have too many characters to juggle, I will save it for an issue worthy of the criticism. I'm having way too much fun with this one.

It's tough to criticize something that succeeds in doing everything that it needs to do. Definitely check out Secret InvasionInhumans #4 if you are planning to follow the War of Kings event.

While a little bit slow, Secret Warriors #4 lights the fuse that promises to give the series an explosive future.

What's Not So Good: So… That glaring issue I mentioned early in the review? It's that the Secret Warriors are given exactly one page in the latest issue of their series. While it's great to see Fury, Dugan, and the heads of Hydra duke it out, I still feel as though the titular Secret Warriors have been woefully underdeveloped. The first arc of their series ends with the next issue and I barely have their names straight, let alone their team dynamic or final roster. While Jonathan Hickman's storytelling/character decisions are far from crippling, they are still somewhat annoying considering that, five issue in, his cast of unknowns remains a cast of unknowns.: Lack of Secret Warriors aside, the latest issue of Secret Warriors delivers the goods. I highly recommend it!

Secret Warriors #9 is loaded with action and makes the team really look like a force to be reckoned with. Be sure to pick it up.

If you have enjoyed Noa, Roy, and Jahu's story thus far, make sure to check out this issue – all the elements that have been building since the first issue come to a head. Just be aware that you may (or should I say will) feel left hanging by some of the plot elements and, as of now, there is no set time frame for when the next part of the story will be released.

In short, Terror Inc. #1 is a well-written, good-looking book that isn't afraid to take advantage of the MAX label. The main character rocks and one of the plots being developed is a lot of fun.

Phil Hester, along with Michael Broussard and his art team continue to completely reinvent an idea that, quite frankly, was getting a bit stale. The new direction for Jackie and the new uses for the Darkness concept elevate a fairly basic storyline into something much more exciting than it has any right to be. If you aren't reading the Darkness, you should be.

I actually applaud Kirkman for telling the story that he wants to tell and not giving into the temptation to shake things up just because this is a milestone. The Walking Dead #50 is all about the emotional toll the recent events have had on Carl and it works extremely well in that regard. Congrats Mr. Kirkman, it has been a great ride so far.

Some way, some how The Walking Dead just keeps getting better and better. As a result, I'm quickly running out of ways to praise the series. Oh well, I'll keep doing it as long as the quality is there. Robert Kirkman, Charlie Adlard, and Cliff Rathburn have put together a story that definitely deserves all the acclaim it can get.

As usual, the creative team behind The Walking Dead delivers in nearly every way. Issue sixty is about as solid as they come and serves as a great example of why the series is such a success. Highly recommended.

You'll have to excuse me if this review is a bit short. I've been reviewing The Walking Dead for a long while and, quite frankly, I'm running out ways to praise the series. It rocks.

Art issues aside, Great dialogue and an intense standoff make The Walking Dead #65 one hell of a fun read. Be sure to pick it up.

Harsh, yet effective, The Walking Dead #66 brings the “Fear the Hunters” arc to a satisfying close.

Thunderbolts #121 is a good read that is a disappointment only when considering the great things that have come before it. The story and artwork feels rushed and the absence of half the roster is a bit annoying. Don't let that deter you though – this is still one of the best books on the shelf this week. Warren Ellis' run has been a must read for those who're into the darker side of the Marvel Universe. If you missed out, be sure to pick up the trades. So long Warren Ellis and Mike Deodato Jr., the Thunderbolts won't be the same without you.

Simply put, this tie-in is both fun and refreshing. The team already has trust and paranoia issues, so it's great to see them just get to the task at hand. Even without the star power of Warren Ellis and Mike Deodato, the Thunderbolts are still well worth reading.

It's great to see Thunderbolts return to form. Now it just has to remain in that form and all will be well.

Transhuman #4 is a great conclusion to an incredibly entertaining mini-series. Definitely take some time to track it down.

Overall, this series is off to a pretty great start. The art is solid, the storytelling is brisk, but friendly for new or casual readers, and the storyline seems as though it is going to make good on the promises made on the hype. Good stuff all around.

I really don't have anything truly negative to say about Welcome to Hoxford at this point, but feel that it really is being written for a specific type of audience. I can't (in good conscience)make a sweeping recommendation, but those into the horror genre or the concept of the anti-hero really must give this one a try.

If you are looking to check out Witchblade for the first time and don't feel like hunting down issues #116-118, this would be a nice place to jump on. It's a nice showcase for the strengths of the series and works well as a stand-alone story that should leave you wanting more.

The latest issue of Witchblade looks great and brings a solid story to a satisfying close. Pick it up.

I really don't know how much more I can say. I went into X-Force #6 fearing the worst and came away from it more than pleasantly surprised. If the momentum from this issue can be sustained, X-Force is going to be one series worth keeping an eye on. Action fans and “X” fans, consider this one a must buy

If you are an X-Men fan you owe it to yourself to check out one of the most consistently entertaining books in the X-Line. While this isn't a great issue to jump onto (it concludes the current arc), it is worth checking out just for the teaser of where things might go in the near future.

For those that have been reading AvengersThe Initiative from the beginning, consider this to be a must buy. The character work is outstanding and the payoff for sticking with the series so long is most definitely worth the purchase price.

The finale of Captain Britain and MI:13 does the series justice. If you're a fan, there is a whole lot to like about Captain Britain and MI:13 #15.

Chew's first arc definitely ends on a high note creatively. If you haven't been following Chew, be sure to pick up the “Taster's Choice” trade when it hits stores. You'll quickly see why the series is quickly gaining quite the following.

While you won't get much Conan, trust me when I say that Connacht is still very much worth reading about.

Do yourself a favor and pick up the Dark Avengers Annual. The artwork is great, the story does good things for an interesting character, and it ends in a way that will leave you looking forward to Noh-Varr's next appearance.

Go buy Dark Reign: The List – Punisher. Rough start aside, it's truly memorable and one of, if not THE, best List one-shot so far.

Deadpool #4 goes a long way in proving that the series is under control and in capable hands. The writing, artwork, and storyline all come together to form one of the most entertaining packages that Marvel offers.

Deadpool #11 rocks. Go buy it.

I am what you might call an irregular reader of the Immortal Iron Fist series, so these stand alone stories fit me just fine. If you're looking for a solid story that's complimented by some nice visuals and needs little commitment, do yourself a favor and pick up this issue. You will see why Fraction is considered one of the rising stars of the comic industry and why the Iron Fist series has been a surprise hit. If I have any real complaints about this issue as a whole, it's that the story is fairly predictable and that it has next to nothing to do Danny Rand – the main character of the series. Still, a great read nonetheless.

Overall though, there is next to nothing to complain about if you are a Secret Invasion fan. This issue was made for the Invasion and will please anyone looking for deeper insight into what makes the Skrull invaders tick. Also, as mentioned before, the reveal is huge.

To all of those that decided to take a break from New Avengers while it worked through Secret Invasion, it's time to get back on board. As for those that have never checked the series out, now would be a great time to give it a look.

While the latest Front Line series is a bit hit-or-miss as a whole, the conclusion is definitely a homerun in this reviewer's opinion. It hits all the right notes and manages to bring some much needed subtlety and realism to an otherwise bombastic event.

I highly recommend Secret Warriors #3. And while I wish a few of the growing pains would go away, they do little to detract from the quality of the issue. In this reviewer's opinion, if you aren't reading Secret Warriors, you're missing out on a potential “series of the year” candidate.

The Darkness #6 is easily one of the strongest issues of the long-running series. It is sure to please fans and action-junkies alike. Highly recommended in every way.

Definitely give The DarknessLodbrok's Hand a shot if you are a fan of the series or just good stories in general. It doesn't exactly break any new ground, but then again it doesn't need to. Easily one of the better one-and-done comics I have read this year.

American Nightmares #3 is probably my favorite issue of The Stand (so far). Be sure to check it out!

One of my favorite series having fun with my favorite genre?! Oh yeah, Unwritten #4 is good. Very Good.

Another month, another great chapter of The Walking Dead. Fans of the characters will find a lot to like in this one.

The Walking Dead #61 will probably stick with me for a long time. This is definitely something that should be read first on your list. Be sure to check it out!

Considering that the text-box issue is something of a necessary evil, it doesn't really weigh a whole lot on my overall enjoyment of The Wonderful Wizard of Oz #2. The comic simply rocks in every way. I highly recommend it to anyone and everyone. It's a perfect example of why the comic medium can be such a fantastic thing.

Fans of a more legendary take on the classic character will find something to like in the final chapter of Fraction's epic. I highly recommend it, but be sure to track down the other two parts first.

After a somewhat shaky start, Welcome to Hoxford is quickly becoming one of my favorite stories of year. I highly recommend this one to all horror fans.

You really can't go wrong with this one. It features fantastic artwork, a well-written paranormal police story, an interesting cliffhanger, and even a little bit of fan-service. Check it out.

Overall, I'm really enjoying the first part of the Broken Trinity event. It manages to avoid getting bogged down by the necessary set up while creating the hooks that make me want more as soon as possible

Sinister Spider-Man #1 is awesomeIF you are the type of person that can get into what it offers. I expected good, what I got was great. While I certainly can't recommend it to everyone, I can still give it the grade I feelit deserves

What else can I say? The latest issue of Deadpool worked for me in every way. I highly recommend it.

If you are a fan of Hellboy, horror, or just good storytelling (written or visual) make sure to check out Hellboy: The Crooked Man.

Outside of a nice twist at the very end of the book, Iron Fist #16 is a low key passing of the torch between creative teams. If you're looking for an action-packed romp, then steer clear of this one. However, if you want some fantastic writing highlighted by some great character moments and unbelievably complimentary art work, make sure you don't pass this one up. Oh yeah… keep an eye out for a cameo by two of the best writers in the business.

You really can't go wrong by picking this issue up, especially if you have been following this series since it debuted. The payoff is great and everything comes together extremely well. A near-perfect read for new, casual, and hardcore fans alike. Also, as a side note, be sure to pick up the David Aja variant. It rocks!

What more can I say? Kick-Ass #3 steps things up in every possible way and I really couldn't be much happier with the result. Pick this one up.

In my opinion, Kick-Ass #5 is the best issue of the series yet. While not as flashy, extreme, or shocking as the others it makes an impact by proving that the series has more than enough personality, character, and depth to be worth investing in. I've said it once and I'll say it again (and, if the creative team keeps this pace,probably again and again)Kick-Ass kicks some serious ass.

What else can I really say? I loved Secret Invasion #4. Here's to hoping the tie-ins do their job or else the wait for next month's installment is going to seem endless.

While this second chapter isn't quite as strong as the first, but it still ranks as one of my favorite comics of this year or any. Sky Doll is telling a tale that works on a number of levels and it should be checked out by any mature readers looking for something different. I can't wait for part three.

Marvel's adaptation of The Stand continues to impress. If you liked the first three chapters, you will love the fourth. I highly recommend it.

I realize that things have been bad for Rick and Carl, but the latest installment really drives the point home. If you have been a little bit let down by the aftermath of #48, this issue should put all fears to rest that the series has lost its way. The storytelling is fantastic and the strange revelation is most likely going to stick with you until Kirkman reveals his hand about the true nature of the telephone conversations. A great read all around.

While I could potentially knock this one for heading back into some extremely familiar territory, it works so well and is handled so skillfully that I can't possibly allow myself to do that. Why you ask? Because, in my opinion, this is The Walking Dead at its best.

Ellis and Deodato have completely knocked this series out of the park and I honestly feel sorry for the follow up team. I got back into comics with this current Thunderbolts team and with each issue it surprises me how every other series loses a little bit of its shine every time a new Thunderbolts story hits the stands. A spectacular effort all around. If you aren't on board with this series, you definitely have been missing something great.

The latest part of “Old Man Logan” may just be the best yet in some ways. It isn't deep, but it sure is a hell of a lot of fun. The visuals are memorable, the Red Skull is awesome, and the shit…well it finally gets real.

If you haven't noticed by now, I really enjoyed the latest book and consider it to be the strongest one yet. X-Men fans, consider it a must read.

I flat out love Urban Myths and hope that I get to see more of Jack Medusa and company sooner than later. Make sure to vote for this one when polls open in August at www.myspace.com/pilotseason so that it can be greenlit for a full run.

The start of an exceptional, visually superb adaptation of a classic, The Wonderful Wizard of Oz #1 easily ranks as one of the best comics of the year. This is one of those rare times I have absolutely no qualms with recommending a $3.99 comic book. It is worth every penny.

Do yourself a favor and hunt down the first four issues of the series if you haven't already. It's well worth it. Once you are caught up, then sit back and enjoy what I'm sure will be remembered as one of the single best comics of the year.

If you've sat on the sidelines this long, you may be better off waiting for the trade. But that doesn't change the fact that it's an a must-read series in every way. Hunt down the back issues or wait a while for the trade. Either way, The Wonderful Wizard of Oz should not be missed!

If you haven't been buying The Wonderful Wizard of Oz as a monthly, be sure to get the collected edition as soon as possible. I can't possibly recommend the mini-series enough…

Bring on The Marvelous Land of Oz ASAP because Im ready for more!