Leo Johnson's Comic Reviews

Reviewer For: Stash My Comics, Outer Realm Comics Reviews: 116
8.8Avg. Review Rating

9
Adventure Time (2012) Annual: 2013 #1

May 30, 2013

This is a great book for anyone familiar with the show and wanting to jump into comics. Or anyone not familiar with the show. Or just anyone. It's just a great book. Buy it.

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9
Adventure Time: Candy Capers #1

Jul 11, 2013

New readers, gather 'round. This is a great issue for anyone familiar with the show and looking to get into some of the comic adventures that occur in Ooo.

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10
Adventures Of Superman (2013) #1

May 30, 2013

These stories are not confined by stuffy storylines or any sort of canon. The creators were free to play around with Superman and his mythos, and it came out wonderfully. A great read for any readers new to comics and looking to start with something that's somewhat familiar.

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8
America's Got Powers #1

Apr 20, 2012

Overall: A great read, and something that I definitely look forward to picking up next month.

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8
America's Got Powers #2

Jun 8, 2012

Overall, a great second issue in what is shaping up to be a phenomenal mini-series. Definitely something to look forward to for the next few months. Ross and Hitch continue to deliver.

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7
Animal Man (2011) #21

Jun 20, 2013

For new readers, it may be best to catch up via trades first. This issue just doesn't set a good enough foundation for the previous, nor is it the usual high-quality work that the creators are usually known for.

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10
Astro City (2013) #1

Jun 6, 2013

Everyone needs to read this issue, both those new to the series and past fans. It's a wonderful start to another chapter in Astro City lore and comic fans need to take note of it.

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9
Atomic Robo Presents: Real Science Adventures #7

Apr 18, 2013

New readers, dig on in. Never read any Robo? Don't worry! He probably doesn't even show up in this whole arc, so you won't miss anything. If you don't read this issue, you do miss Nikola Tesla flying by using electricity channeled through his suit. You make the call.

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10
Atomic Robo: Savage Sword of Dr. Dinosaur #1

Jun 27, 2013

The beauty of each volume of Atomic Robo is that it's completely independent of every other volume. Most don't follow any real chronological order, but rather are random events in Robo's life. Each new volume is as new reader friendly as it gets.

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8.5
Atomic Robo: The Flying She-Devils Of The Pacific #1

Jul 5, 2012

Overall, there is nothing that isnt to like. This promises to lead into another epic and exciting adventure for our robotic protagonist and his new friends. Im looking forward to see where this particular arc goes, and definitely hoping that Robo gets his own jetpack! Pick it up, people, and support a great story put out by Red 5 Comics.

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7.5
Avengers Arena #7

Apr 11, 2013

Issue 7 acts as a great introduction to the series, really. A new reader could conceivably pick up this issue and then go back and read the first six and have a clearer picture of the series as a whole. This issue answers a lot of the questions that previous issues have raised, but a new reader would merely wonder what Arcade was up to. Overall, a great issue for readers new and old.

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9
Batman '66 #1

Jul 18, 2013

New readers can enjoy this book. Batman, of course, is one of the best known comic characters and seeing him in a fun, silly adventure is something that is likely to draw some people in.

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9.5
Batman / Superman (2013) #1

Jun 27, 2013

Everyone is familiar with Batman and Superman. Everyone. Everyone knows who they are. This story makes an effort to set up this issue as a way for new readers to jump into the mythos, and it works.

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9.5
Bedlam #7

Jun 6, 2013

New readers will likely be lost within this story. Little is done to introduce characters in a way to catch up those just jumping on. New readers will likely need to pick up the first trade as a means of figuring out this story, as great as it is.

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8
Bloodshot & H.A.R.D. Corps #18

Jan 7, 2014

With an action-packed story that's fairly easy to pickup, Bloodshot and H.A.R.D. Corpsis a great read. Valiant has been steadily releasing great comics and this is no exception. Issue #18 would work fantastically as an action movie scenario, but it's even better to see it as a Bloodshot story.

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9.5
Bloodshot (2012) #0

Aug 22, 2013

This is a great way for new readers to not only get involved with the book, but to also get the full origins of the character. It's a great issue to start on.

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8
Bloodshot (2012) #10

Apr 18, 2013

New readers, read that introductory page. If you do that and understand it, then you're golden. With that background information, this issue is a great way to jump into Valiant comics as it crosses over with Harbinger, thus exposing a reader to titles at once. It's an action-packed read that is quite unlike anything on the stands.

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9
Chin Music #1

May 9, 2013

The lack of real development could turn off some readers, but this story seems to be worth the wait. Niles and Harris have both been responsible for great work, so their is faith in the creators. Plus, the addition of a supernatural Eliot Ness makes any book worth a read. New readers could find a great read in this book if they can wait for the mysteries to be revealed.

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9
Coffin Hill #1

Oct 10, 2013

All in all, this is a great first issue. Great story, great art, great introductions to an interesting concept. Any readers looking for something of the supernatural sort, while also having it rooted to a great story are definitely going to need to pick upCoffin Hill.

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9
Critical Hit #1

Oct 1, 2014

All in all,Critical Hitcontinues in the footsteps ofLiberatorby being a singular sort of story that never ceases to surprise. While it may not be for everyone, it at least deserves a chance because it's guaranteed to be a little different than you expected. Miner and Sawyer are working really well together in this first issue and it'll be great to see what the duo does asCritical Hitcontinues to tell its story.

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4.5
Cryptozoic Man #1

Oct 10, 2013

New readers, steer clear. This is going to be nothing but a disappointment. While it's an interesting premise, it's just not well done at all. It's going to leave you more confused or disappointed than anything.

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10
Curse #1

Jan 15, 2014

Curse might just be the first big creator-owned book launched in 2014. The creative team is one that fans can only dream of and they execute the book so very well. If issue 1 is any indication, this miniseries will be a big deal.

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10
D4VE #2

Jan 8, 2014

D4VE continues to be one of the best digital comics around. Ferrier's darkly humorous, yet personal story about a bored robot hits a chord with many, all while Ramon's art makes the story as a whole just so immensely enjoyable. Great art and a fantastic concept deliver one of the most unique and human books around. It's probably the best book I never knew I needed. Issues one and two can both be purchased on Comixology for just 99 each.

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10
D4VE #3

Feb 26, 2014

D4VEcontinues to be possibly the best digital comic of this year and shows no sign of slowing down. There is no other comic with this much humor, aliens, robots, and genuine feelings for just 99. Be sure to buy it on Comixology.

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9.5
Daredevil: Dark Nights #1

Jun 6, 2013

This is a great story for both current fans and readers looking to read more about Matt and his superhero identity. It gives a good feel for the character and has him acting in a way that feels genuine and pure.

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9
Deadly Class #1

Jan 22, 2014

Deadly Classis yet another Image #1 that delivers in a big way, which should be no surprise by now. Remender and Craig deliver a story that's a bit personal while it plays with some previously visited concepts but makes them feel fresh and fun. This a definite must-read from Image.

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7
Deadpool (2012) #8

Apr 25, 2013

New readers, jump in. This issue might be to your liking. The first couple of pages are a great way to catch up on the story so far, so new readers shouldn't be too left behind. All in all, it's friendly for new readers, while maybe not being the best of comics.

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9
Deadpool (2012) #15

Aug 29, 2013

New readers might have some problems with the story, especially the whole organ snatching plot line, but it's still a very solid issue. The recap page can do a good bit on catching up a potential reader, so that might be enough.

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8
Deathmatch #5

Apr 25, 2013

New readers might want to skip to the back where there is a bit of a primer on most of the characters. This will definitely help in figuring out who is who and who killed who. With this information, this issue is definitely one that a new reader can jump into.

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9
Dia De Los Muertos #1

Feb 7, 2013

If you're a new reader and interested in a truly unique first comic, look no further. I can guarantee almost absolutely that there is nothing anywhere close to this on the stands right now. Rossmo has brought forth something amazing, which is to be expected.

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7.5
Dinosaurs Attack! #1

Jul 18, 2013

The influence of the monster movies of yesteryear is obvious, and it works as a comic in this vein. It feels a bit “dated”, as it intentionally does so, and that doesn't necessarily work against it. For new readers, this may not be ideal, as those unfamiliar with the trading card series that spawned this comic may not like it too much. Even as a solid work, the older feel and the unfamiliar characters might turn some readers off.

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8
Doomsday.1 #1

May 16, 2013

All in all, it's certainly not a bad comic. It's worth a read and could be great for a new reader that loves post-apocalyptic stories and wants to stay away from thesuperhero genre.

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9
Enormous (2014) #1

Jun 25, 2014

Enormoustakes no chances with its second lease on life and comes roaring out of the gate with a stellar first issue. At a huge 48 pages, Daniel and Cheggour give the reader plenty to chew on and pour over. The team makes a strong issue, with something for most every reader. Honestly, it wouldn't be a surprise to seeEnormousexplored a bit more on film, even beyond the previous Machinima short.

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8.5
Fairy Quest: Outlaws #1

Feb 7, 2013

Fairy Quest was initially something I was a bit leery of, but, man, I enjoyed it. It's a simple, fun story with wonderful art and fun storytelling. It's an interesting story that takes familiar concepts, things we all grew up with as children, and turns them completely on their heads. I'm very much looking forward to the rest! This issue could be great for anyone looking for something outside the normal superhero fare or something with a bit more relaxed and fun style.

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8
Fanboys vs. Zombies #13

Apr 18, 2013

Overall, it's a good read, but fails to explain the backstory enough for new readers. I'm sure it's a great read for current fans, but as a new reader, I felt left out. I had no idea who any of the characters were and it wasn't explained to me. It's a good comic, but not as new reader friendly as it should be.

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9
Ghosted (2013) #1

Jul 11, 2013

As a brand new series, this is great for a new reader to jump into. And it's something outside the realm of most comics, so it's a good book for someone looking for something different.

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8.5
Godzilla: Rulers Of Earth #1

Jun 27, 2013

New readers can get into this. While, most already know of Godzilla in some form, even those that don't shouldn't have any problem picking up this story and joining the megazoologists as they seek to understand these gargantuan animals.

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9
GoGetters #1

Feb 19, 2014

GoGetters continues the quality streak of releases from MonkeyBrain. Its a great comic full of action, adventure, and humor thats sure to please most any comic fan. Its sure to have the most pages of gorillas doing ridiculous things that 99 can get you. Be sure to buy it on Comixology.

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9
Goners #1

Oct 22, 2014

Goners is exactly the sort of comic I enjoy seeing from Image: a team of not-so-well-known creators that are obviously making a book that they love dearly. The love shows through in this issue as it delivers a heck of an opening and grabs the reader in a big way. Fans of Monster Squad and Johnny Quest should find more than enough to love in this first issue and surely even more to love as the story continues.

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9
Green Arrow (2011) #17

Feb 7, 2013

New readers will feel at home with this issue and I think it's a great issue for people to jump in with. Pick it up, read it, read it again, and then read it a third time.

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7.8
Harvest #1

Jul 30, 2012

Overall, it's not a bad first issue, in fact, I think it's above average, I'm just not in love with it. The art was wonderful and some stylistic choices were great, but the writing just didn't quite do it for me. Still, I think I'll stick around for the entire miniseries. It's a promising enough start and an interesting enough story where I think I'll be around until the end unless they just do something terrible with the book. If you're fan of Image Comics and want a story that's a bit out of the ordinary, give it a look.

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6.5
He-Man & The Masters of the Universe (2013) #1

Apr 18, 2013

For new readers, there is no grounding for anything. No characters are adequately introduced, no events are even remotely given exposition. It's just flying blind. I have some basis in the characters and story, but still felt largely lost while reading. It's definitely only for readers who have read past miniseries and other related things.

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9.5
Indestructible Hulk #9

Jun 20, 2013

For new readers, this is a good book. Waid introduces the core concept of the series and the background information all within the first few pages, but makes it a part of the story. It doesn't feel like it was put there because it had to be, but rather because that's what belonged there.

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8
Iron Man (2012) #9

May 2, 2013

This arc promises a change or two, so it's worth reading. It's not the most new reader friendly, but I think it could still work.

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8.5
Iron Man (2012) #10

May 16, 2013

This is the official start of the arc, but reading issue 9 likely would be beneficial. Even so, I've forgotten about half of what happened last month, so it can't be that crucial, right? Regardless, jump into some crazy Iron Man stuff. Plus, you got some Red Hulk mullet from back in the day.

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10
Irredeemable #1

Mar 17, 2012

Verdict: Such a promising first issue. It sets up the following issues for some really great stuff. It definitely hints at finding out more about the Plutonian, which will be nice as he's been a bit mysterious in this issue. Definitely check it out if you're looking for a superhero story of a different variety.

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8.4
Irredeemable #2

Mar 19, 2012

Verdict: A solid second issue. Definitely worth continuing along with reading. We learn a little more the Plutonian and his former life and are left with an interesting ending.

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7.6
Irredeemable #3

Mar 25, 2012

A good issue with some nice developments. We see more of the supporting characters and their actions, and are left with an interesting ending.

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8.4
Irredeemable #4

Mar 25, 2012

I loved this issue's story. The sheer brutality shown in this issue was amazing, and gave me one of my favorite moments in comics. I mean, how many times has Superman pushed an island into the sea?

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9
Irredeemable #5

Mar 25, 2012

The story was wonderful for this issue. Waid continues to impress. The subtle humor with Volt and the further expounding upon just how crazy the Plutonian is makes this issue wonderful. It's rare to find a character as evil yet as compelling at the Plutonian; someone you hate to love so much.

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8
Irredeemable #6

Mar 26, 2012

Finally, we learn about the Plutonian's childhood. The fact that the Plutonian is an orphan/foster child is a nice touch, I think. The line describing the Plutonian as a child "clearly eager to love and be loved" really makes the reader wonder what has happened to this once loving, selfless superhero. Waid yet again does not disappoint with the direction that he guides this series in.

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8.4
Irredeemable #7

Mar 31, 2012

Another great issue. There's a reason this is one of my favorite series.

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9
Itty Bitty Hellboy #1

Aug 29, 2013

New readers can enjoy this, no doubt. On its own merits, it's a solid book with quality art and storytelling. It's only made better for being a vehicle to bring Hellboy to a wider audience. It could conceivably act as a great transitional work to get younger audiences into the other Hellboy books, but that remains to be seen.

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7.5
Jupiter's Legacy #1

Apr 25, 2013

New readers can dig into this comic. It's completely new and has no ties to other works. If anything, the amazing art by Quitely may turn off a few potential readers because it's not the stereotypical comic style. Don't be that reader.

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7
Justice League (2011) #22

Jul 11, 2013

New readers, save yourself the trouble. You'll be lost. Heck, I'm lost/disappointed and I've halfway kept up with some of the characters involved in the story.

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9.5
Justice League of America (2013) #7.4

Sep 26, 2013

This is actually the only Villains Month comic that I've read, but I sorta had to because of my love of the whole Captain Marvel/Shazam universe. I was pleased with the way Adam was portrayed, more as a protector with a singular goal and brutal way of reaching that goal than a being with villainous intent. All in all, it made for a good read and should be good for most any fan of Adam or Captain Marvel.

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9
Kiss Kids #1

Aug 22, 2013

For new readers, this could be an interesting title. The book could easily be read to a child that has absolutely no idea who Kiss is, but it can also appeal to their longtime fans or just readers in general. While it would seem to have something a niche audience, there's really a lot more flexibility for the book, thanks to how well put together it is.

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8
Liberator/Earth Crisis: Salvation of Innocents #1

Mar 11, 2014

While the story might feel a bit rushed in places, Miner and Earth Crisis write something that makes you think, which so few comics do. Even as someone who isn't involved in the culture depicted, it's an interesting read and one that ultimately functions as more than just a simple comic story. While it isn't perfect, it's a solid comic that has a message and accomplishes more than most, all while it manages to be an enjoyable read. For anyone interested, print and digital copies can be purchased at the Black Mask Studios store.

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7.8
Mars Attacks #1

Jun 19, 2012

Overall, I was pleasantly surprised by this comic. Maybe not something I would've picked up had I just seen it in the store, I liked this a lot. I would recommend it to any fans of the franchise, and also people who enjoy stories that just make you smile and feel good by the end of the book.

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9
Mind the Gap #11

Jun 20, 2013

For new readers, this is a tricky situation. While the first few pages give you a good basis, there's a lot of fine detail and chronology in the issue that is lost without reading the previous issues. Characters mention things offhandedly that you have no former knowledge of. It's a bit confusing. While a good read, it's not the most new-reader-friendly.

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8.5
Morbius: The Living Vampire (2013) #8

Aug 22, 2013

All in all, it's a bit much for new readers, but still is tons of fun. The recap page in the front is good to bring readers up to speed, but there are still multiple underlying things that need answers.

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9
Morning Glories #26

Apr 25, 2013

As with an actual television show, jumping into season two may be a bad idea. New readers would be best off picking up the first few trades before they dive into this story. Trust me though, it's worth it.

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9.5
Powerpuff Girls #1

Sep 26, 2013

This was a fun read and connected with the old show, while also going on it's own sort of path. There really isn't any background given about the Powerpuff Girls, so that might confuse some newer readers, but I imagine most picking up the book already know who they are. Definitely worth a read for both adults and children.

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9
Punisher: Trial of the Punisher #1

Sep 26, 2013

This is honestly one of the more immediately interesting Punisher stories that I've read in quite a while. It leaves a big question about what Frank is trying to achieve, but the reader knows that he's Frank Castle, so he's pretty much always in control of what's going on. The implications of having him actually being put on trial for all the things he's done is something that could have repercussions in further stories. Yu's art brings it all together in a nice looking package.

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9.5
Quantum and Woody #1

Jul 11, 2013

Valiant has consistently published great books, so it's no surprise that this book is off to a great start. Perfect for readers looking to check out a Valiant title or just get to know the characters for the first time.

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8.5
Quantum and Woody: Goat #0

Mar 4, 2014

This issue does a great balancing act of keeping things fun, but also serious and advancing the overall story. Even more so, it's new reader friendly, which is becoming increasingly rare for any issue in an ongoing series at any publisher. Fans new and old can find something worth reading here.

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10
Rat Queens #1

Sep 24, 2013

It's pretty safe to say that this is going to be another big hit from Image Comics.The story, art, and characters are all built and fashioned with such quality that it'll be hard to find someone who isn't a fan of this book. It's fun, irreverent, has great characters, great story, great art, and even a joke or two.

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10
Rat Queens #4

Jan 14, 2014

Rat Queens has found its stride in these first four issues and it shows no sign of slowing down. Each issue is better than the last. More action, more humor, and more great moments. If this keeps up,Rat Queensmay just prove to be one of the best series of 2014.

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9.5
Rat Queens #5

Feb 25, 2014

Rat Queenscontinues to be one of the most fun books, Image or otherwise, on the stands each month. This issue really starts to dig into the past of the characters, their life outlooks, and their general personas. Plus, you get some sweet, bloody action. If you're not readingRat Queens, you're not living life properly.

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7
Red Sonja (2013) #1

Jul 18, 2013

New readers, take caution. Whileit's atale that is fairly easy to get into with no prior knowledge, it might not be your cup of tea. While some of the things I perceived as odd might be things that are common in Red Sonja books, it's just too much for this reader.

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8.5
Samurai Jack #5

Feb 25, 2014

Jack is back for even more comic adventures. This is good news. With the first arc wrapped up, Zub and Suriano are jumping into smaller adventures in the next few issues. Fans of the show should already know how good this comic is and, if not, they're missing out.

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9
Savage Wolverine #6

Jun 13, 2013

New readers can get into this. Even with Elektra, who may be unknown to some new readers, there's enough background to go with the story. At just a couple of issues, it's not much of a commitment, but is sure to be a good read.

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10
Sex Criminals #1

Sep 26, 2013

This book is definitely not for the faint of heart or the prudish. New readers up for it will likely get a lot of enjoyment out of the book. It's certainly not for kids, but fans comfortable with the material should be able to get a good laugh out of it, while also becoming interested in the odd story that Fraction and Zdarsky are crafting.

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9
Shadowman (2012) #11

Oct 1, 2013

Though it's a bit of a departure from the main storyline of the series so far, this is a fun issue. It's a good “done in one” type story and really gives a good idea of who Jack is and just what sort of city New Orleans is. I don't even really want to call it a fill-in issue because it doesn't seem like a fill in issue, due to the quality of the story and art. Plus, there's a pretty cool mask if you get the variant cover.

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9
Six Gun Gorilla #1

Jun 13, 2013

At first, I wasn't too keen on the story, but after a reread, I loved it. It's full of some great sci-fi moments, but also has some nice nods to the original material. The world of Blister and the state of Earth are both things that a sci-fi fan can get caught up in and enjoy. Perfect for fans of the genre.

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9.5
Skinned #1

Apr 18, 2014

Skinnedis a great debut, pulling the reader into the world and setting up what should be an engrossing story. Daniel and Holt begin to tell a love story set in a world that seemingly doesn't allow for actual love. Gowdy's art shifts and changes, putting the characters in different settings with almost every panel. All in all, it's a fantastic first issue and a story that should hold much in store. As with all Monkeybrain books,Skinned #1can be found on Comixology for just 99.

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10
Southern Bastards #1

Apr 30, 2014

Southern Bastards might just be Aaron's best work since Scalped. This first issue is one of my favorites of the year. It hits all the right notes and sets up what is sure to be a great sort of Southern noir. Do yourself a favor and check it out.

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10
Southern Bastards #5

Oct 29, 2014

Leo (@LFLJ) is a real life Southern Bastard, originally hailing from the mountains of Alabama, and talks about comics on the internet a lot. He podcasts, reviews here, and also does regular interviews at Multiversity Comics. He even interviewed Jason Aaron once.

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9.5
Strange Nation #4

Jan 15, 2014

Strange Nation, like many MonkeyBrain titles, is an incredibly imaginative and inventive book. While each issue is only a dozen or so pages, it often seems to contain more actual story than many of the larger companies can pack in 20 or 22 pages. And for just 99 on Comixology, it's a fantastic deal. Issues 1 through 3 can also be found for just 99 each.

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9
Strange Nation #5

Mar 14, 2014

Strange Nation, like many MonkeyBrain titles, is an incredibly imaginative and inventive book. While each issue is only a dozen or so pages, it often seems to contain more actual story than many of the larger companies can pack in 20 or 22 pages. And for just 99 onComixology, it's a fantastic deal. Issue 5 and all previous issues can be purchased right now!

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9
Suicide Squad (2011) #20

May 9, 2013

New readers can jump right into this book. I'd never read a single issue of Suicide Squad before, but found myself right in the story. The narrations and recap page give a good introduction to the series and characters, while not bogging down the overall story. All in all, it's a great read.

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9
Superior Carnage #1

Jul 18, 2013

Carnage is a character who was absent for many years, but is always in an interesting story. Carnage has no redeeming qualities. Even before he was a supervillain, he was a serial killer. He's a truly evil character, but that's likely what makes reading about him so fun. For new readers, it may be a bit confusing. There are details that reference previous appearances of Carnage, which new readers will likely be confused about. Even so, it's worth a read.

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10
Superman Unchained #1

Jun 13, 2013

Even with the odd spread, it's a fantastic book. Everyone knows Superman, so there is no excuse to not pick up the book. Jump on it, people.

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8.5
Tall Tales From The Badlands #3

Mar 25, 2014

Tall Tales from the Badlands is honestly one of the best anthologies I've read in a while, western or otherwise. The quality of the art and stories doesn't slack from story to story. The five stories all have their own distinct voices, while fitting nicely into the “weird west” theme thatTall Tales seems to have. If you're looking to pick up a copy ofTall Tales #3 or any of the previous issues, they can be found digitally on My Digital Comics, Drive Thru Stuff, and Graphiclyor in print on Indy Planetand check out the Black Jack Press Facebook page!

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10
Ten Grand #1

May 2, 2013

New readers, get on this! It's a new miniseries, with no ties to preexisting work, so there is nothing to research. It's just a great story perfect for anyone to jump into.

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8.5
The Avenging Spider-Man #20

May 9, 2013

New readers, assuming they've seen The Avengers, might be alright. The fairly large cast of characters makes it a bit difficult for anyone who has no basis in the history, but it's still a good read.

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8
The Black Bat #1

May 2, 2013

Overall, it's a great way to jump into the character. A good origin story and it's done right. New readers, check it out.

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8.5
The Colonized #1

Apr 11, 2013

It's a new miniseries and at just four issues, there isn't much investment on the readers part. It's well worth the time and money. I think a new reader interested in science fiction would feel right at home picking up Colonized and likely picking up the next three issues too.

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8.5
The Colonized #2

Apr 30, 2013

All in all, it's a great second issue in the series. It continues with the momentum from the first issue and helps introduce some more plot points that further develop the story. It's a great combination of story and art that add to the series as a whole. Pick up Colonized #2 from your Local Comic Store on May 1, 2013!

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10
The Dream Merchant #1

May 16, 2013

Honestly, this might be the next big thing from Image. It's well written, beautifully drawn, and has a story that's all its own. Edmondson has already created some pretty successful comics with Image, and I believe this one will follow right along with the rest. New readers should definitely get into this as it's a completely new series and is also a fantastic value, as the issue is gigantic. It's just a great overall comic, content and costwise.

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7.4
The Manhattan Projects #2

Apr 20, 2012

Overall: I nice second issue which introduces some interesting new characters. Definitely worth a read.

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8.6
The Manhattan Projects #4

Jun 27, 2012

Overall, this book just keeps getting better. Each issue showcases the creative talents of Hickman and Pitarra. This is definitely one of the best new series of the year. Pick it up and enjoy it, comic readers. You won't be disappointed.

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8.5
The Movement #1

May 2, 2013

It's a great first issue in a new series and one that is sure to please many readers. It does a good job of setting up some serious conflict. While we still know basically nothing about our characters, the concept and presentation is strong enough to warrant picking up the second issue.

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7.4
The New Deadwardians #1

Apr 29, 2012

Overall: A very interesting premise and a nice meeting of art and story make this first issue something worth reading and continuing to read later on.

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8.4
The New Deadwardians #2

Apr 29, 2012

Overall: Another great issue in what is sure to be a great miniseries, which introduces plot points that are sure to be part of the rest of the story.

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8
The New Deadwardians #4

Jun 28, 2012

Overall, another solid issue in what might be my favorite current mini-series. Definitely something that's different from the usual zombie or vampire stories, and something that's a great read.

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8.5
The Shaolin Cowboy: Who'll Stop the Reign? (2013) #1

Oct 10, 2013

New readers can pick this up, but it might not be to every reader's taste. It's over the top and wonderfully strange, not quite like most comics around. It's the first issue in almost a decade, so it's nice to see things picked up again. If nothing else, the art is worth the price of the book.

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8.5
The Standard #2

Apr 9, 2013

While being a truly indie comic, this is classy stuff. It's a great mix of writing, art, and concept. Everything comes together to make a genuinely good issue and another great installment in a good series.

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8.5
The True Lives Of The Fabulous Killjoys #1

Jun 13, 2013

There are certain to be quite a few new comic readers picking up this book based on being fans of Way's music, so that's good. Assuming it ties in to the album it shares a name with, this story will likely make more sense to them. To me, it's a bit muddled.

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10
The Wake #1

May 30, 2013

It's a first issue of a new book from an amazing creative team who have consistently delivered high quality work. It's safe to say that new readers could easily pick this up, and very well should. Fans of sci-fi and horror will definitely feel at home reading this book, which will expand across ten issues to bring a truly epic story.

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9
Theremin #1

Apr 11, 2013

For new readers, this is perfect. It's cheap, well-written, easy to find, great looking, and a fantastic comic. If you have a smartphone, you can get this comic. It's great stuff with a strange, wonderful future in store.

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9.5
Theremin #4

Jan 29, 2014

Theremincontinues to be a singular sort of series, evolving and growing as Pires carves the story from his brain and Rose sets it to pictures. It's a book that belongs at Monkeybrain. Theremin is definitely not your normal comic and you're all the better for reading it. Each issue can be found on Comixology for just 99.

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9
Think Tank #9

Aug 29, 2013

New readers can jump into this fairly easily. David himself explains most of the past events as he thinks to himself of his current situation. The issue as a whole is well put together and a good read. The science aspect is sure to attract a few readers as well.

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9.5
Thor: God of Thunder #12

Aug 29, 2013

This issue, like few others that start a new arc, doesn't really say anything of the last arc. Thor just goes straight to being Thor. The story told is one that sheds a softer light on the Thor of the present Marvel universe, which is something that fans certainly need to see. New readers can definitely jump in and be engrossed in this world that Aaron has constructed.

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9.5
Three #1

Oct 10, 2013

This is a great comic for a new reader to pick up, especially if they're looking for something outside the normal fare of comics. Historical fiction comics are not the most common things in the world, so it's nice to not only see one, but see one that's obviously done extremely well.

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10
Undertow #1

Feb 18, 2014

This is another first issue from Image that is sure to be a sellout. It takes the well-known concept of Atlantis and takes it in new directions, all while making it a fully realized world. This is the sort of first issue that other comics should seek to emulate. What makes it even more impressive is the fact that Orlando and Trakhanov make something this great in what is their first mainstream comic work. It's not fair when creators made something this good so early on.

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10
Undertow #3

Apr 22, 2014

Undertow continues to be a stellar title. Great world building, genuinely well-written characters, fantastic visuals, and a darn cool story idea. The addition of The Amphibian and the plans of Atlantis are sure to take this story in a very interesting direction as things start to unfold.

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9
Unit 44 #1

Jul 30, 2014

While, it's obvious that I liked the issue, that's not to say it was perfect. One thing that threw me more than anything was in a page where Ike and Gibson draw guns on each other. Ike has a revolver in one panel and a shotgun in the next, with no apparent reason/means for getting the shotgun. Maybe it was just something that flew over my head, but it took me out of the story for a bit. That said, the first issue is worth a read as it's fun and contains some laughs. Even better is that issues 2-4 are currently being funded on Kickstarter, this time with the book having a home atAlterna Comics. Starting at $3 you can get PDFs of the first issue or even get a PDF subscription of all four issues for $15. Definitely give it a look!

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9
Virga #1

Jun 6, 2013

This is a great comic to jump into. Fans of the book will like it, fans of sci-fi will like, and just readers in general will probably like it. It's a solid story, and it's just 99 cents on Comixology.

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9
Wild Blue Yonder #1

Jun 20, 2013

As a first issue, this is great book for new readers to pick up. As a completely new series, there is no companion work needed to understand the world created in this book. The story itself does a great job of presenting this new world in an easy to digest way.

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8
Winter Soldier (2012) #1

Feb 7, 2013

I'd never read Winter Soldier before, but this was a treat. It's a bit like Captain America with guns and a dark past. That is, it's pretty great. Bucky has a chip on his shoulder and everyone knows it. The story and art give you a great feel for the character. It was a fun sort of spy-thriller comic with plenty of great action sequences. Perfect for someone trying to jump into Marvel characters that haven't featured heavily into movies (I know Bucky was in the Captain America movie, but I stand by my point).

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8
Wolverine (2013) #5

Jun 27, 2013

New readers might find things a bit dense in this first issue. A basic knowledge of the Marvel Universe would probably help immensely, but it could be enjoyed without it.

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9
Wonder Woman (2011) #20

May 16, 2013

This issue is not so great for new readers. While there is some background on the events, very few characters or events are adequately explained. While it's a great issue of a great series, it's not right for a new reader. Pick up the other 19 issues, and then jump in.

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9
X #1

May 9, 2013

New readers can jump into this series still. And it's highly recommended. Though it's a violent, dark superhero story, as many others are, there is a certain sense of mystery to it all that makes it more than just another one of the same. The eventual payoff could be great.

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9.5
X-Men (2013) #1

May 30, 2013

For new readers, use caution. There are going to be multiple characters that you've never heard of, with little to no explanation for them. That is what happens when you read X-Men comics. Even so, with a little research and some back issue reading, this story is perfectly enjoyable for anyone.

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8.5
X-O Manowar (2012) #2

Jun 14, 2012

Overall, Im glad to see X-O Manowar making a comeback. Its showing a strong beginning, and hopefully will continue to be a great series. Definitely a series to pick up and be on the watch for.

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