On a slightly unrelated note, the Eisner nominations for the year have been announced and JiM has been snubbed entirely. Sad reviewer is sad.

A sincere, all-star effort that delivers on all levels. Comic books rarely get better than this. Best of all, if you are new to the title, this is a perfect jumping-on point which gives you a great feel as to what the title is all about. Kieron Gillen and co. end the year on a high note with this gem of an offering.

A strong start to what seems to be a great arc. Surprisingly, this issue manages to be quite new reader friendly as well. It's all laid out for such entrants in the recap page, and it's done in a hilarious yet succinct manner. If you are a bit short on change and somewhat apprehensive of the $3.99 tag, trade an Avengers or a Moon Knight off to pick this one up, will ya? You won't regret it, trust me.

While not as much of a triumph of some of the more recent issues- the holiday and Volstagg one-offs spring to mind- this tale is certainly head and shoulders above a majority of the mainstream titles on offer at the current marketplace. Seeing as this is a middle-of-the-road issue in context of the arc, it's even more impressive how Gillen and co. have succeeded in maintaining their quality with this tale. Journey Into Mystery remains as fun as ever, and you must have a cold, cold heart indeed if your heart isn't warmed by the endearing stuff to be found within this gem. If you are wary of the hype; don't be. This is everything you heard it is, and maybe more! Vote with your wallet; choose quality over quantity. (Not that the two should be mutually exclusive!)

Journey Into Mystery #641 doesn't buck trends and upholds the series' reputation for quality, featuring solid work from its creative team. Overall, the Manchester Gods arc has been a shot in the arm, and I only regret that it wasn't a tad longer. Well, three issues are better than none, so I guess I will shut up now.

An entertaining Second Act to the Omega Effect, Punisher #10 also performs well enough as the continuation and further development of themes explored in the series itself so far. It's also a masterclass in how to carry a crossover with the perfect balance, and fans prone to complaints about event fatigue couldn't go wrong by checking this one (and its predecessor) out.

Mind you, there's plenty of adult material to be found in these pages (there's breast-feeding and aborted robot sex, for instance) so hyper-sensitive readers might take care to avoid this book if they are easily offended. In that case, though, you will be missing out on a truly special first issue.

It's clear that the title is building up its pace at this point. Vaughan and Staples are making it a helluva experience even at this early stage, so it's something to wonder just how much bonkers they are going to go once the series hits full steam. This is the sort of comic, with its multi-layered narrative, that can threaten to get overwhelming with its sprawling world later down the line, so it would be prudent for all interested parties to hop aboard the bandwagon as soon as possible. There's something undeniably special in sticking through with something unique from the beginning to end, and this title's definitely worth (and probably needs) that sort of support.

The creative team delivers another winner here with Saga #4. Strongly paced and possessed of a genuine heart, this definitely warrants a buy from the fans.

Saga #5 continues the series' trend of defying expectations and provides a very well deserved bang for your buck. While we have yet to see some definitive progress on the story front, at the moment the ride is too enjoyable to complain about that.

Another solid offering from a dedicated creative team, Saga #6 offers a pretty organic, if not seamless, transition out of the first arc. Unfortunately, we have to be content with that for the next two months, as the book resumes publication in November. It's going to be a long, restless wait, but it will definitely be worth it.

Still, there is this spectre hovering over this reviewer as he waits for the conclusion in April- there is the chance that it may peter out and end on a whimper. Here's to hoping that nothing of that sort happens and the momentum carries clean through: this arc has been loads of fun so far. A Thorri appearance next issue would put all my nonsensical worries to rest, no doubt!

A solid addition to a fascinating story arc, Journey Into Mystery #640 explores some interesting themes, and if you are not really looking for all that, is still jolly good fun on its own! This definitely warrants a buy from the regulars. If you happen to be fan of the British side of Marvel Universe and haven't read this yet, do hop in. You are missing out on something great!

This is not the sort of finale that sheds some new light on the franchise concerned or invokes a sense of catharsis for the readers as participants of the journey. Nor is it left lacking or confusing, as many have levied such accusations against LOST or Sopranos and the like. Rather, Northlanders #50 ends the series just right, nothing more, nothing less, and in a way encourages the reader to go through the series' entirety and make up his own mind on the title's worth. It's this sort of earnestness, the commitment to telling good tales on their own merit, that can make this series stand the test of time and stay bright in the collective consciousness of the purveyors of this medium.

A simplistic, but above average plot is elevated to higher plateaus by the outstanding art effort from Checchetto and Hollingsworth. A $2.99 title with quality this good is practically a godsend. This reviewer hopes that the plot kicks into high gear in future issues, for while the series is undoubtedly great in its current phase, it has the potential to be so much more. At the moment, though, there is plenty to like about the title- that's for sure!

A strong, impactful start to what looks to be an unique mystery/political hybrid, Saucer Country #1 hits all the right notes to carve out a place for itself amongst its impressive peers in the current Vertigo portfolio. Cornell and Kelly have meshed well in this initial offering, and it will be interesting to see what more twists and surprises they bring for us in the future.

Featuring stellar writing and outstanding artwork, Avenging Spider-Man #6 is good ole' superheroics in the Mighty Marvel manner at its finest, and anyone who decided to skip this is really missing out on some solid stuff. When all is said and done, Omega Effect might just turn out to be the most talked-about crossover of 2012 (except, you know, the one where people go nuts over out of control redheads).

A disappointing finish to the otherwise strong Omega Effect, Daredevil #11 at least features some excellent artwork to make up for its vices. Also, this is the first moderately weak issue in the title so far, so it will be interesting to see how Waid and co. regain their footing in the following issues. They have built up a sturdy foundation of critical and commercial success so far with the series, and a misstep in here necessarily doesn't throw the entire house into shambles.

This is as good a time as any to get on the bandwagon, folks- trust me when I say that this arc's one of the slower ones out of the whole lot.

Also, for the second month running, we get a 32-page story with no ads...at $2.99. If you have space in your budget for that teensy bit of extra spending, then pick this one up! There's no reason to be obtuse now, is there?!

A solid issue that works on many levels, Punisher #12 is the sort of comic that you can return to several times and be completely satisfied each time. Another masterclass in decompressed writing. Hats off to Rucka and co.!

A good second outing that holds up pretty well in terms of consistency, Saucer Country #2 expands the questions and provides some clues as to the right paths to the answers, but the answers themselves are a long way down the line. The focus is very much on the build-up at the moment- but as they say, patience has its rewards.

A strong start to what looks to be an exciting addition to the strong creator-owned portfolio that Image has been racking up these last few years. A strong concept, well-developed characters, and a fantastic creative team...there's little more one could ask. If you are a fan of noire (though the touch is noticeably light here), or a fan of character studies, or more importantly, a fan of well-written comics in general, you can't go wrong by picking this one up.

While the first issue served to act as the sampler, this second issue is more indicative of the series' true intentions. A smart thriller with its heart in the right place, Thief of Thieves looks to be well on its way in carving out a name for itself amongst the best crime books out there. And with creative talents this strong, it's hard to see how it could veer off-course after this strong outing.

A fun, yet intriguing addition to the series, Thief of Thieves #3 amps up the stakes, but ever so slightly. The series is still in the process of peeling away the layers of Redmond and his world, slowly revealing the larger purpose of this book as it does so. While the deliberate pace may be a bone of contention to those who prefer more immediate gratification, at least this is being done with some style and panache in here, with some good writing and art to boot.

Thief of Thieves #6 has got several good hooks to it that's well worth the $2.99. With Spencer's story arc soon coming to an end, I would recommend the upcoming first trade for newcomers looking to jump onboard. Or, if you are feeling adventurous, look for the back issues and get them all! That might be difficult, as this book has gone back for double printing in some occasions, so not a lot of unsold copies lying around, I reckon. Still, the series is definitely worth the effort!

Daredevil #12 does a fine job in wiping away the bitter, tangy aftertaste of the Omega Effect finale, setting up the stage for the next big tale in the series. Featuring solid performances from every member of the creative team, this issue definitely warrants a buy from fans and new readers alike.

Daredevil #14 sports a harrowing turn of events for our favorite swashbuckler, portrayed gloriously by a creative team in top form. Definitely warrants a buy from hardcores and casuals alike.

This issue delivers a strong buildup for the finale, making the task all the more harder for Wood and co. to deliver according to expectations. A subtle yet impactful addition to the Icelandic Trilogy, Northlanders #49 is also surprisingly new reader-friendly. Don't wait too long though- I suspect the finale won't be as much forgiving in that regards!

This is a must buy for any and all Punisher fans. Even if you don't particularly like the character to begin with, give this one a chance, as the title continues to be highly accessible to its last breath. Post-Watchmen, deconstruction doesn't get better than this. This reviewer highly recommends checking out past trades of Aaron's run if you don't believe it; what the creative team has created here is something special.

A necessary evil that's not without its draws, Thief of Thieves #4 gets the title a little bit closer to the plot-changing turn that sets Redmond up for his imminent fall. While technically competent, the book is nothing to write home about, except perhaps for the above par artwork and the really fantastic cover.

By the time you are done reading Thief of Thieves #5, you feel like you have reached the tip of the iceberg. Everything after that is just going to be a nasty fall. How that works out for our protagonist and the supporting cast is something to look out for in the coming months.

While this is the one issue in the arc which screams filler more than any other, Morning Glories #17 does provide some food for thought, particularly for the more investigative fans, and they can't go too wrong with a purchase in that regards. This issue, along with several developments stemming from the previous issues, sets up an interesting conclusion to the arc. It's a misstep, but only slightly so.

Though the start to the Dark Avengers saga was very plodding, the last two issues have largely fixed the pacing issues and now New Avengers strides forward at a robust rate. This is another enjoyable sock-them-up from Brian Bendis and co.; however, this reviewer hopes that the actual plot progression picks up speed now that the explosive fights seem to be out of the way for the time being. With the pickle the Avengers seem to have gotten into courtesy of Osborn's scheming, it will be quite interesting to see how they can possibly get out of this one with their reputations intact.

A fairly good wrap up to the Osborn storyline, New Avengers #23 definitely warrants a buy from its corner of the fanbase. As the title moves into AvX territory, it will be curious to see if this regained momentum will hold in future issues or peter out once again due to event-related obligations.

Rucka and co. continue to deliver a consistently good read. Daredevil is the one Marvel relaunch hogging all the critical and commercial buzz at the moment- and while it deserves all the pops it gets, the Punisher deserves some love as well. It's the product of a well-oiled machine, presenting a realistic crime world populated by complex, intriguing characters. Highly accessible, always entertaining- and at $2.99, it's a definite catch.

The Punisher #13 provides a diversion from the quest of vengeance that Castle and Cole-Alves have embarked upon, but it's a welcome diversion nonetheless. While Checchetto's interiors are missed, Suayan isn't half bad and has enough selling points of his own to satisfy most regulars. Another tick in the buy column, in my humble opinion.

It's a funny feeling to see such a well-written book end in such restrained fashion. In this instance, readers are as much a part of the entire process as the creative team, and it works to the finale's benefit. This is the chance for the unconverted to pick up the series in entirety, once the trades arrive; or perhaps collect it in floppy form at a discount from the back issue bin. Hats off to Aaron and co. for consistently delivering quality tales for the last two years; without a doubt, it's the end of an era.

Stormwatch has finally entrenched itself as a high quality action-packed book with a unique, sci-fi premise. The 'explorers of what might have been' riff that Cornell has set up for his successors is highly reminiscent of the premise of Planetary, and this reviewer for one hopes to see such strangeness on display in the following issues. This book offers a distinctive blend of widescreen fun that is not found elsewhere in current mainstream output, and as such, is not to be missed.

Stormwatch #9 features a solid debut performance from Milligan, backed up by some truly superlative artwork. For those doubtful of the book's future direction, fear not- the title's in good hands!

The best thing about Supercrooks #2 is how it absolutely embraces its over-the-top nature and plays havoc with it. While this might sound egregious to some, the best approach to read the title is to approach it as a well-done primer to the movie adaptation rather than solely as a comic book. Millar is providing a super-charged tale in four issues, and it's apparent by now that such a approach leaves little in the way of finer details. There is a time and place for all things, and Supercrooks is the book you want to go for if you want to read fast, entertaining tale of one-upmanship and camaraderie between cons.

An above average comic that features some pretty good art, Avengers Annual #1 is worth a buy if you are a regular reader of this corner of the Marvel Universe. It gets a bit confusing for the more casual segment of the readership, though, owing mostly to the months-long delay. The title also incorporates a fair amount of continuity. In retrospect, the title is (naturally) geared towards the more completionist crowd than the potential newcomers, and that works with all the benefits and drawbacks that would suspect.

A disappointing, and, at times perplexing, start to the crossover, Exiled #1 nevertheless sets up an intriguing premise for the participating titles to follow through. There is plenty of potential in here to make up for this rocky start. Here's to hoping that's what happens in the following weeks.

This issue is very good, but it's one of those which fall just short of being great. Now that the Scourge Virus plot thread seems to be done, in retrospect the arc wasn't as solid as some of the classics of the series. Nevertheless, the book seems to be heading at an interesting, if not controversial direction. That's right folks- there's going to be a replacement Invincible, and he's a minority! Here's to hoping that this doesn't end up in a disaster; Kirkman certainly has the chops to pull of a respectable turn at that sort of story.

A spectacular fight and an intriguing turn of events makes Invincible #90 quite an enjoyable experience, a must read for the fans. Things have become quite unpredictable and desperate in the Invincible-verse once again, and I for one, would have it no other way.

A riveting addition to the series that is not without its share of flaws, Morning Glories #19 definitely justifies the long spell of slow build-up issues before it. A must buy for all fans of the title, without a doubt.

Brian Wood maintains his usual form as the series heads towards its conclusion. Returning fans will find little reason to complain with this month's offering. Seeing as the series is knee-deep in a generations-long saga, however, it's not the best of times for newcomers to venture unprepared into this issue. In that regards, the first Northlanders trade- collecting Sven the Returned- is an excellent read to gauge the overall mood and feel of this historical title. Vertigo's portfolio remains as robust as ever- and even as it approaches its swan song, Northlander remains a principal attraction.

A decent start to the last arc of the title, Northlanders #48 features an expertly-crafted script, accompanied by satisfying, if not quite good, art. A major plus for the title at this point is that, even though this issue is the seventh part of a nine issue mega-arc, as a stand alone tale it's completely accessible. In that vein, if have room in your budget for a 2.99$ floppy, you can't go too wrong by picking this one up.

For the moment, Stormwatch continues to be a fun book with a lot of potential. A lot of the excitement is in seeing just how well the potential is realised by the creative team, like it was in the case of the belated Heroes. Here's to hoping that this journey won't end in similar disappointment!

Dedicated fans can't go wrong from picking up this emotionally-charged slobber-knocker. It's not the best moment for new readers to jump in, though, as the title is chiefly dealing with fallout arising from a mini-event that took place about ten issues or so ago. Nonetheless, you are invited to dig in, by all means. It's a dollar less than most Marvel books, for one!

Invincible looks to be taking a turn for the better, judging by the multiple developments in this issue. The two things the book is principally good at- character development and balls-to-the walls action- is noticeably absent here, and thus the issue seems a bit dimmed in comparison. Still, long-time fans can't really complain, seeing as there were a lot of things that could go wrong and none did in actuality. That's an accomplishment in and of itself, in a sense.

Bendis sticks to the basics, and consequently shines in his writing. He finally manages to throw a bone for us long-term readers. For more casual enthusiasts on a budget, though, $3.99 may be stretching it. In that case, borrow from a friend or peruse at the comic store. Like a good popcorn flick, this is some solid entertainment.

While not perfect, this is a better catch than most $3.99 dollar titles on the market. At a dollar less, this provides multiple off-the hook high concepts and an uniquely dysfunctional team. The current creative staff spares no expense in crafting an entertaining read that begs the question "What happens next?!". If you have yet to pick up the previous three issues, do so immediately! This is not an issue meant to be read as a stand-alone, in any sense of the word.

In conclusion, this is not the worst of starts to the Season One line- but it definitely could have been better.

Invincible is gathering steam as it delves deeper into its next major story arc, and so far it seems to be a fun ride. Kirkman's treading unfamiliar ground, as usual; here's to hoping he doesn't falter and succeeds in delivering the next logical step in Invincible's saga.

For the record, Supercrooks is definitely more concerned with style than depth; however, it has that sliver of world-building attached to it, in addition to the always superlative Yu artwork, that makes one hope that the title can reach better heights in the months to come.

Overall, this is a mostly average addition to the Avengers mythos. If you belong to that particular fanbase and have been collecting throughout recent years, this one doesn't commit any cardinal sins as to deter you from picking it up. On the other hand, it doesn't try very hard to change your mind on the matter, either.

Some fairly interesting turns teases a potentially exciting finale for the next month, and in this regards New Avengers #22 succeeds in roping the reader effectively for the next installment. Still, the next issue has a tall order if it aims to succeed in delivering a satisfying conclusion. While the Dark Avengers saga in its entirety has so far been full of ups and downs, here's to hoping that it ends on a high note.

While it's not an appalling nosedive, there's an undeniable drop in quality in this month's Punisher. It's not bad per se, but it's certainly not very good- which is almost a sin considering the consistency the title has maintained since the relaunch last year. I will be hoping that it recovers its footing in the crossover issue next month and resumes delivering one of the best mainstream graphic novel content out there.

A good conclusion with some palpable developments spewing forth from it, Stormwatch #8 puts the title back on track and paves the way for Peter Milligan to impress us readers with his take on this unique, dysfunctional team. While we have had some interesting sci-fi concepts thrown in by both Cornell and Jenkins till now, we have yet to see the team to be really utilised in a more character-centric capacity, and that's something to look forward to in the upcoming run. Let's hope Milligan brings that dose of stability into the mix; wacky ideas can only go so long without engaging, fleshed out characters to back them up.

Ant-Man: Season One isn't outrageously bad- rather, it's thoroughly disappointing by virtue of its extreme blandness. That, coupled with some mistakes with the narrative, makes this book one for the ignore pile, in my humble opinion.

All of this makes the impending conclusion of 'Supercritical' very supplementary, especially to those averse to filler material. You might be better off if you decide to skip these two issues and resume collecting from #9 instead.

This hardly warrants even a once-over at the comic shop. Unlike it's predecessor, this issue's art fails to provide the saving throw and consequently, the faulty mechanics of the featherweight script are laid bare for everyone to see. After an initial glimpse of promise in the post-Fear Itself scenario, the title has dropped down to its usual strenuous standards. A disappointing turn of events, to say the least.

A comprehensively disappointing addition to the Season One initiative, Daredevil: Season One has lowered my expectations from future additions quite considerably. Being the eternal optimist, I hope for another reversal of fortunes in perhaps the upcoming Spider-man book or even, the second wave of the project next year; Lord forbid that too much damage has been done to the overall portfolio by then, though.