Van Lente and Dunlavey are quickly becoming the current masters of non-fiction comics, enlightening readers with their wit and ability to convey information memorably and humorously. For those interested in comics history, this series is unmissable. There might be books that deliver this information more comprehensibly, but nobody is going to make the material more entertaining.

An excellent second issue to add to a great first one, Locke & Key mixes humor, pain and fear into a readable and enjoyable cocktail. While the price is a buck more than the average book, you'll know where that money went when you read it.

Since the story is told through the rather imperfect memory of an old man, there will be parts of this issue that bring up questions in the readers mind that don't, at first, seem to make sense. However, it all comes together in the end and makes Head Games a very promising new chapter to Locke & Key.

The only possible downside to this issue is that the story is in no way self-contained and will be a bad place for any newcomer to the title to jump in. However, given the depth of the story and obvious hard work that's gone into it at each step of the way, I think I can let that slide.

And last part is what makes the book haunting. Well, that and the rather disturbing reveal at the end. Needless to say, The Bulletproof Coffin was my best purchase of the week and I wouldn't hesitate to recommend it to any comic book lover.

The only downside to the book is that at $3.99 it doesn't feel like you're getting much more of a book than the 99 cent zero issue. However, that may speak to the value of the #0 issue rather than anything else. Regardless, Joshua Carver's entrance into the Front Liners should make a good read for anyone looking for a different bend on the super-hero genre.

In addition to this, the other elements of the No Hero continue to be excellent as well. Masterson continues to do and say things that make him seem more like Lex Luthor than Reed Richards while his organization continues to come under assault by a mysterious, but seemingly multinational, conspiracy. In addition to the Russians, it seems the Chinese are involved and, by the looks of things, an undetermined Spanish speaking country. The reveal of this last bit is intriguing as during an assassination attempt, the gunner yells out, "Basta," which roughly translates to, "Enough!" It would seem the world has gotten rid of the chokehold that Masterson and his Front Line have gotten on the planet via there super-abilities.

In a world awash in fake Nazis and World War II nostalgia, Carey and Gross have created a mirror of image of Nazi Germany that has teeth and serves as a reminder of just what made that regime so very despicable. In doing so they have also given their as yet unseen villain(s) a terrible weight.

The Unwritten #17 is not a good place to start and that it is not a self-contained story is, in this reviewer's opinion, it's only failing (if you can call it that). While not a good place to start in the series, it is an excellent example of what's good about comics and what creators can do with them when they choose to step out of conventional bounds.

Regardless, as a crime tale, Scalped is an interesting read in an original setting. The sixth issue is a good place to jump in for anyone who wants a good noir fix.

The art in this issue tends to jump around in a rather cinematic way. This doesnt work quite as well in the silent medium of comics, but it does leave a few unanswered questions. The work so far that the team behind Scalped has done makes this book worth picking up in the future just to get those answers.

There continue to be a dozen good reasons to enjoy Scalped. Issue #13 encompasses almost all of these.

Of course, all of this still leaves the question, who murder Gina Bad Horse? In a previous review, it was speculated that it was Mr. Brass. However, in the last pages, it's revealed that he just came into town. With Red Crow, this clears all of the obvious suspects. So, who killed Gina Bad Horse?

For the adolescents in the crowd, there's sex. Lots of it. Add it all up and you've got one kick ass book. So go buy the damn thing already.

The reveal of that particular conflict is well worth the cost of admission. However, there's plenty (plenty) more to enjoy in Scalped #30 and it's brought to the page in such a way that I can't wait for issue #31.

Scalped some times feels like a snake bending in on itself, snapping at its own tail, and issue #38 is no exception. It provides a fantastic new piece to a labyrinthian crime story, taking Dash's father, who has only been portrayed as a loser junkie up till now, and flushes out the character into a real and believable man.

That pretty much sums up everything that's good about 30 Days 'Til Death. It has what you loved about 30 Days of Night but with Lapham's own unique stamp on it. Prostitutes, stabbings, junkies, vampires, death squads -- what's not to like?

This first issue is a strong enough introduction into the 30 Days of Night that Im anxious enough for the rest of the story that I may go right out and buy the trade paperback. If a book can stir that up in you, you know its good.

The only downside on this issue of Atomic Robo is that some of the jokes might be lost on anyone who didn't catch last years FCBD edition. However, after a very direct and effective setup, the book gets right into the funny, funny action and there are plenty of jokes to go around.

Captain Blood is a great start to a swashbuckling epic. This reader looks forward to seeing issue #2.

All in all, Cemetery Blues #3 is good enough that this reviewer is going to go back and find the first two. I highly recommend anyone looking for some spooky fun do the same.

The only downfall of the story, though, is that it seems to lack depth, just portraying the events of a card game. However, it's fun enough that readers will be left hoping for an expansion beyond this one-shot to give Chase Variant a chance to show more of its strange and exciting little world.

Short, sweet and to the point, this issue of Conan is a welcome addition to the collection and a great starting point for the new Cimmerian title. And damn well worth your 99 cents.

The end of issue #4 brings readers back to the first two issues of the Conan re-launch in such a way that elicit a smile from regular readers. While Conan the Cimmerian may have gotten a lukewarm reception at its launch, it is shaping up to be a promising new direction.

Theres a twist at the end that may cause readers to flip back a few pages and scratch their heads. However, like most of Ruckas work, it makes sense when pieced together and leaves the reader wanting more. With this first issue, this mini-series shows that Crime Bible could be a great deal of fun for everyone.

Crossed: Family Values seems to have everything the original had and quite a few things that it didn't. If you were a fan of the original or Romero's The Crazies then you should definitely check it out.

In this second issue, Crossed: Family Values again exceeds the original mini-series by providing a human element that was missing from the first one. While watching the Crossed do their thing may inspire its own sick fascination, watching how things shake out with the Pratt family could be even worse.

All in all, Daytripper is a book that I won't pretend to understand, but always elicits a strong emotional reaction and gets me to think by bringing up some of the heavier questions in life without being pretentious. It's a beautiful book.

The plotting is a bit slow here, so readers expecting upfront action should be forewarned. Two issues in and what exactly the main plot is has yet to be disclosed. However, both of these traits, it should be remembered, are inherent to the original (and superior) Die Hard. If you enjoyed the first movie, but prefer to pretend that the latter ones didn't happen, it's time to take a trip back to the beginning with Die Hard: Year One.

This first issue of Drafted is good enough that the series may hold the promise of being one of the best military science fiction books in years. If youre a fan of sci-fi of earth shaking proportions, then definitely give this one a look.

The story is detailed, well thought out, and very weird. If you are looking for something out of the ordinary, pick up Gutsville.

Hawks of Outremer, lesser known story it might be, is one of the best adaptations of Howard's work to comic book form. It captures the exciting pace, bloody violence, and stoic honor of the original work making for a complex but fun read.

The Highwaymen is a strong action comedy with a subtle science fiction twist. I would recommend it for anyone looking to take a break from the super-tights beat.

All in all, Ignition City #2 is worth the cover price even if you only read it once. But, rest assured, it's good enough that you'll be paging through it a couple of times.

In the end, The Incredibles comic book does what the movie did best--it takes a fun and creative superhero story, creating within it characters that readers can love and, whether you are 8 or 80, makes them into something you can see in yourself and, even, admire.

However, perhaps best of all, Tomb of the Gods really isn't a movie adaptation at all. It's an original adventure that has been crafted into a fine comic book from the movie material, with distinct serial chapters, complete with cliffhanger endings. And that's really what we're looking for, isn't it?

While Waid is clearly a master of sequential storytelling, Irredeemable makes it clear again that he's at his best when his imagination is allowed to run free without the constraints of established characters. When he collaborates with an artist like Krause, well then, it's time to kick back and enjoy the show.

All of this, combined with some very good art, makes Johnny Hiro a fun book thats suitable for just about anyone. In the words of Mayumi at the end of issue #1, Its beautiful.

The art in the book, much like the action, mixes the cartoonish and the realistic, to great affect. That is probably the best, short way to describe Johnny Hiro as describing the jumble of action, commentary, romance and hilariousness would take more words that I have space for here.

Yes, Johnny Hiro is all that with some fine art to boot. Given the plethora of adjectives used in this review to describe the book thus far, perhaps the best one to sum it up is charming. Or fun. Heck, man, I don't know go buy the book and decide for yourself.

While the first issue delivers a nearly encapsulated story, it also does a good job of leaving the reader with a fistful of classic questions. Questions like, who is Madame Mirage and why does she do what she does? It should be fun finding out.

Terror, Inc. is a weird and fun story. If youre looking for a good anti-hero read with some brow raising moments, pick it up.

While never stated, the book seems to be a prequel to the web series as it begins before The Game is introduced. So if you're not familiar with the existing show, that won't be a problem. So if you are looking for something to help embrace your own geekery, jump right in.

Well, go buy the book if you want to find out. Itll be worth your three bucks.

That next step introduces a strangely charming bad guy that is also completely despicable and amoral. This character, while he may not be around for a long time, seems to be as fleshed out as much as any of the other characters, which is another indication of just how much work has gone into this book. It also leads to an ending that this reviewer didnt see coming. But it will keep me looking out for issue #3 whenever it hits the stands.

This review omits discussion of the plot directly simply because to do so might ruin the beginning and the end of issue #3. However, if you enjoy strong story-telling in the comics medium that makes you care about the characters and leaves you wondering what will happen next, then The Sword is for you.

The Sword continues to be a great read and a masterful delivery by the Luna brothers. By far, this is their best work to date.

After Shane McCarthy's excellent run on All Hail Megatron it was easy to prepare for disappointment with this continuation, but the team behind Transformer has delivered in a big way. All hail Primus!

Taking classic characters and drawing them out to logical, but new, conclusions is a difficult thing at best. However, the team behind Transformers #2 has managed to pull it off. And they've managed to make it fun to boot.

IDW has, so far, managed to make an ongoing series that equals all, and surpasses most, of the Transformer renditions that have come before it. If you aren't a legacy fan of Transformers but enjoy big robots in any form, it's worth checking out.

More importantly, though, Thunderbolts #114 is great entertainment from beginning to end. There are treasures large and small throughout, such as watching Strongbow take on the conniving Moonstone or seeing the Thunderbolts standing over the body of Captain America in a television commercial. The buildup of the previous issues climaxes here and to great affect.

All in all, Unknown Soldier is captivating read with a mysterious protagonist that is up to his neck in a horrible war. In Moses Lwanga, Dysart and team have created a character that represents every human's desire to fight and longing for peace.

If while reading this review, you've been thinking to yourself that Unknown Soldier sounds like a depressing book, it could certainly be interpreted as such. How do you recommend a book like this? Oh yeah, dude, you should totally check out Unknown Soldier, it'll crush your soul. That doesn't sound like a ringing recommendation, but as I read this issue the room seemed to darken and when I finished it I wanted to run home and hug my wife and loved ones. It is uncompromising but, in stark contrast, makes seemingly impossible subjects accessible. For that alone it is worth picking up.

While this review has mostly concerned itself with the themes of The Veil it should be noted that this couldn't be accomplished by the creators without a firm grasp of their craft. The story has been plotted and paced carefully, beginning and end attached perfectly, while the art portrays mood, action, and characterization nearly perfectly. And best of all, while telling a rip roaring supernatural horror tale, it leaves just enough room for doubt to be truly scary.

While the beginning of the story starts a bit slow, the team behind White Picket Fences manages to combine humor, history and imagination to create a great sense of atmosphere for their story. Its original enough, and odd enough, that it might take readers a moment to get their heads around it. It is highly worth the time to do so.

Now given that Wormwood lives in a city where inter-dimensional travelers pass through like strangers in New York, youve plenty of material for the author to work with. This sixth issue of Gentleman Corpse is a great example of Templesmiths work; it's weird, funny and more than a little off. If that sounds like a good read to you, pick this up.

With this strong start Endangered Species promises to be a more cerebral story than your average super-powered fare. If the team behind it manages to keep this up, it raises the question, how can they deliver the usual rock em, sock em adventures that many readers demand? If these two elements are successfully combined, then Endangered Species could be an adventure that most will enjoy.

All in all, anyone who enjoys Invincible will most likely get a kick out of Brit. For those who arent fans for the former, the latter is still worth checking out.

All in all, Brit continues to be just as good as the book that it spun off from. With the introduction of the sister, the book steps closer to Invincible thematically with an emphasis on the importance of family. However, as Brits family seems to be made of diamonds while working next to people as fragile as clay pots, it should be interesting to see where this goes.

Overall Dingo is the story of a broken man in a broken world filled with horrors that he can't hope to overcome but, somehow, still has the courage to try to do so. If you can't relate to that, or aspire to that, I'm not sure I want to know you.

Given that Dingo is, for the most part, a story of boy-meets-world-via-fist-and-feet, it has a surprisingly touching ending. It's sweet without being saccharine, bitter without being nihilistic. No small accomplishment considering the utter weirdness that comes before it. However, the team behind Dingo has pulled together a boot stomping story.

Much of the humor in previous issues came from the personality conflict between Milo and his super-hero self. In this case, the funniest bits come from the villain (or ex), Caliginous. Caliginous (or Stephie as she prefers to be called) personifies that woman scorned that William Congreve warned you about. While the scenes with her are as funny as anything else in the book, it also leaves you with the impression that she is the most dangerous thing since Kim Jong Il. While Kim may have nuclear weapons, Caliginous has sex appeal. I cant say which is more dangerous.

Hero Squared, though, subtly reminds the reader the Caliginous is the bad guy. So her entire side of the story is suspect. However, its told in such an entertaining fashion that this fact may slip right past many readers.

This is all tied together quite nicely with an alcoholic anonymous type meeting which is stitched with the modern lingo of addicts. Even when a few members of The Loners fall off the wagon, they do it with that long used tool of addicts everywhere: rationalization. I swear to God, Im only gonna use my powers of super-whatever this one last time for the good of mankind, et cetera, et cetera. Hopefully, for us this wont be the last time for The Loners. Good, super-junkie fun.

While this issue may not have all the charm of the previous issues, it does a great job of taking B characters and making them interesting, not to mention fun. Its a strong story of wrestling with ones own nature.

While the narrative may be a bit confusing at times, this is only due to the fact that Reed and White have put the reader into the middle of two stories that are separate but intertwined. Theres no heavy handed exposition, just a deep and riveting chronicle that the reader is thrust into by a thief in the night. Whatever it was that Nathan Fisher found in that Pennsylvania cabin, readers will want to know about it. This first issue is a great setup, promising an intriguing blend of noir, cyberpunk and apocalyptic goodness.

Regardless, The Overman is a cerebral and complex tale that will stick with the reader long after it's been read. If the team behind it manages to pull all of the pieces together while maintaining its elusive appeal, it'll be a fine feat of storytelling.

All in all, while this issue of Star Trek: Alien Spotlight is a bit expensive, it will be a big treat for any fan of the original property, especially those who want a closer look at the unexplored crevices of the Star Trek universe.

This Alien Spotlight shows a great reverence for Star Trek from the characters to the pseudo-science, while at the same time pushing it to become more than it currently is. It's a must read for any Star Trek fan.

In addition to having a number of interesting characters, this issue of Rebellion shares a number of other traits with the original trilogy that makes it worth reading. The humor is definitely there, particularly in exchanges with Razes flunky, Drybal. Intrigue is also present; what is on Ahakista that everyone wants? Why did the Empire hide it there? And, of course, are Wyl or any of his compatriots going to survive this? Considering that none of them are regulars of the Star Wars universe, all bets are off.

All in all, issue #9 may be the best of The Ahakista Gambit yet. As it isnt over, I may be putting that statement into print too soon.

All in all, though, The Ahakista Gambit concludes on a strong note with an uncertain ending that could lead to some interesting future storylines. Since the book is taking a break until December, readers will have plenty of time to speculate.

As a reader, what I found most enjoyable about Rebellion are the cracks that it fills in between the movies. Yes, blowing up the Death Star was important, but this is an empire and an interstellar one at that. Blowing up one or two strategic points, regardless of how big, expensive or important they might be, isn't going to bring the Empire down. So what were the other battles fought, the missions run, the lives sacrificed, in order to win the war? Rebellion attempts to answer that question, with "Small Victories" in particular.

Whedon wanted to have fun with this, and I hope he has. Because hes going to make a great deal of Buffy fans happy with this one.

I had another point around here somewhere. Oh yeah, my reasons why the sudden size enlargement has changed things. Well, the sudden growth in numbers means they have a new enemy which may very well be the most dangerous opponent in the world: the U.S. military. Rightly concerned about the sudden explosion in super-human girls, the military has classified the slayer army as a possible terrorist threat. However, those readers who complained that the pacing of the first issue was a bit slow, rest assured thats not the problem in issue #2. Why? Because the military, and other forces as well, are out to get the slayers, and they're not f@#%ing around.

All in all, this latest issue continues to interestingly pull in components from the old Buffy show while introducing readers to new territories. Good fun for any fan of the show and new readers alike.

Vaughn continues to write the dialogue and action for Buffy with a professional hand that is enjoyable and nearly peer to Whedon. However, this issue feels predictable, which detracts from the entertainment value. The character issues and development showcased here, though, certainly make for a promising story arc in No Future for You.

Perhaps most waited for, though, is the reveal of the Big Bad at the end of this issue. While Im sure the entitys physical appearance will be a subject of much debate, as it is a bit super-heroish, the conspiracy that has been slowly revealing itself through Season Eight is given cause and reason. For those who have not read it, it wont be mentioned here, but it can easily be said that it is both ominous and intriguing.

While not the well done Conan issue, this one moves the plot along quite nicely while adding its own fun. Naturally, it looks great doing it.

While issue #37 may have been a bit slow, #38 most certainly isnt. Friendship, betrayal, sword and sorcery are all on display and stitched together very well by the writing. More of this is promised in the hints that Conan may be headed to Koth in the near future in order to enlist as a mercenary. This is something to look forward to as well if, for no other reason, just to see him get out of that loincloth hes been wearing for seemingly forever.

Busiek and Kayanan have put together a fun sword and sorcery story. However, as a Conan story, it leaves quite a bit to be desired.

In addition to being a fun adventure story, this issue has plenty of little gems for regular readers and Howard fans. The team behind this title seems to be having a good time producing the book, and it shows.

All in all, issue #41 is a very promising opening to one of Howards most memorably stories. If intrigue, murder and dark magic are your things, grab this issue. If nothing else you get to watch Conan beat a man senseless with a leg bone.

Dark Horse continues to do justice to Howards work while enhancing it quite nicely. With this issue's action opening, sharp dialogue and narration, and plot twists, its a great place to jump in for old fans and those just curious about the Cimmerian.

Civilization, no matter how high its achievements, will always eventual come crashing down, leaving the barbarians as the rulers and protectors of whatever human vestiges remain. In this chapter of Conan readers are introduced to one of the Hyborian Ages pinnacles of the sciences and to what, exactly, he is capable. The team behind Conan does a great job of mixing in the barbarian, the Red Priest and his dangerous pet in order to illustrate some of the most resounding themes of Howards works.

While Nord will be missed from the pages of Conan, his tenure up until now is certainly one for which any artist could be proud. Fortunately for readers, the remaining creative team looks like theyll be delivering high quality work in the future, combining Howards work with new and interesting flair.

Overall, Siege at Venarium is a complex story looking into the Cimmerians origins that promises lots of action and bloodshed down the road. The creative team behind this book has easily put aside the notion that this series wont be able to survive without Nord.

This issue brings to an end Death on the Battlefield, with a strong and insightful conclusion. If youve been keeping up with this story, then the final issue is definitely worth your time and may be the strongest chapter. If you havent been keeping up, this definitely isnt the issue to jump in, but the series will be collected into Conan: Volume 0 next year. Grab it then and youll definitely get your moneys worth.

Thats more of a pet peeve than a comment on this issue, however. With the all of the new crew on Conan things look very promising with this first issue, which manages to deliver everything from black sorcery to a bit of humor.

Part 2 of "The Hand of Nergal" is a bloody swordfight in true Conan style. It manages to give readers some good knuckle busting fun while pushing the entire story forward, promising dark sorcery, betrayal and mistaken identity.

The end of Faker, handled poorly, could have been funny, predictable or just disappointing. However, in the hands of this creative team, its decidedly disturbing and one that I wont give away here. If youre looking for something out of the ordinary, this is definitely for you. Im going to see if I cant go find issue #1.

While the action in the latter half of this book brings down the entire issue, it does not bring down the Faker story as a whole. The developments brought forth regarding the Angels Kiss here make for some interesting possibilities for the coming issues, particularly with #4s cliffhanger ending.

Faker, ultimately, is a book about truth and illusions. Or the illusion of an absolute truth. Regardless, this conclusion stays true to the harsh realities brought forth by the book, particularly at the end. While some readers may not consider it a proper ending, per se, it is perfect in its own inconclusiveness.

This issue of Fear Agent: The Last Goodbye goes a long way to explaining how Heath became the anti-hero that he is. But, more than that, its a fun and exciting sci-fi adventure with two-fisted violence. If you havent been reading Fear Agent, this is a good place to jump in.

All in all, this issue of Fear Agent will be an enjoyable read for hard-boiled fans of old war comics and existing fans of the series. However, its not a good place for new readers to jump on as the ode to old comics may just come across as rehashed material if readers dont realize what the Fear Agent crew are going for.

All in all issue #18 of Fear Agent does a great job of bringing to book shelves everything that makes the book lots of fun and keeps readers waiting for the next issue.

Knights of the Old Republic is, at least for the last few issues, easy to jump on board. If youre looking for a Star Wars fix that doesnt have a Skywalker anywhere in sight, pick this one up.

In the end, this issue doesnt pull any punches. It does a great job of setting up the story for the Mandalorian War while at the same time making implications on just how the Sith got a foothold into the Republican Army.

The only downside to this issue is that Daze of Hate may be a bit confusing as an opening story arc for new readers who want to jump in to this excellent Star Wars line. This is mostly due to the number of existing characters that fill the pages and the fact that there is little room for introductions. However, my advice to anyone who is looking to jump into the book would be to just sit down and grab on.

Dont let that throw you off if pathos isnt your thing, though. Parker and Padlekar seem to be taking their readers some place strange and fascinating. A place that involves a great deal of aquatic life.

Walk-In may be the best title out there that you arent reading. Pick it up.

Most of all, though, what makes Walk In a story worth reading is the mystery. Just what the Hell is going on here? If youve been keeping up with Walk In, pick up issue #5 and you will not be disappointed. If you havent, start from the beginning and enjoy the ride.

The ending of 2 Guns, though, makes it well worth reading through the book. It also left me looking forward to the next issue.

Absolution is an interesting take on an old idea. How the title plays into the theme of the story isn't really discernible yet, but it should be interesting finding out.

The art is reminiscent of Sin City in its black & white negative style. However, After the Cape has decidedly softer lines and relies less on straight lines and sharp angles than the former. This suits the book as the atmosphere is not as harsh as that of Sin Citys. Whether or not it is well founded, there still seems to be hope for the people in After the Cape.

Regardless, anyone whos been missing Angel and his crew would do well to spend their money on Angel #2. Its an entertaining book that shows that bad choices do, in fact, take you to Hell.

The rest of the book is dedicated to keeping the larger plot moving along, with Angel attempting to figure out how to get out of the trouble he's brought himself by killing the sun of a Hell lord. This culminates in a reveal at the end of issue #3 that will certainly set tongues wagging. While it seems a bit incongruous with certain aspects of the opening (how did his hands heal so quickly?) seeing how all of it comes together should be a good read.

The sixth issue Angel: After the Fall is a quick, entertaining read. While it will probably be frustrating for readers who want to see the story moved forward, it does make for a fun divergent from the past five issues.

Perhaps most interesting of all is what the Atomic Robo series promises. Rather than sticking around in the pulp adventures of the 1930s, the book intends to chronicle the life and adventures of the durable and long-lived automaton. Considering the incredibly interesting things that happen over the course of the 20th century, this could be great fun. World War II, the Cold War, the space race; theres a great many events that took place that Robo could take part in and would make for worthy adventures. Considering how well the first issue turned out, it looks like the rest of these will be worth waiting for expectantly.

If this review doesnt make much sense to you, then youre probably not a regular reader of BPRD. If you arent, then it is very likely you wont enjoy Garden of Souls. But if you are, or you really enjoy cryptic mysteries, then this should be right up your alley.

BPRD 1946 takes readers back to the beginning of Hellboy to one of the most interesting times in history. While it seems obvious in which direction the plot is heading, the first two issues, this second one in particular, are entertaining and strange enough that this reviewer is expecting a number of twists to keep things jumping.

BPRD 1946 takes readers back to the beginning of Hellboy to one of the most interesting times in history. While the direction of the plotline may have seemed obvious in the first two issues, the third issue throws in enough curves to keep readers guessing and coming back for more.

However, the book, particular for a first issue, is well done enough that this reviewer has faith that issues like these will be dealt with as the story progresses. There are also a number of plot points I intentionally avoided mentioning that look to be highly promising. All in all, The Chemist is a fun, unique crime story that is worth reading.

The book, overall, is good fun. It's got great art, an interesting and developing plot and some fun characters. Hopefully, readers won't need to wait another six months for issue #3.

The latter half of this issue has no Zenobia in it, though, and is reserved for the crossing of the river Styx into the land of Stygia. This brings out an element of Howards work that is often overlooked: That the world is a dark and frightening place with sinister, unknown forces at work, where fates lurk that are worse than death. If future issues of Conan and the Midnight God continue in the vein hinted at the end of this issue, it should be an exciting read.

The best part of Conan and the Midnight God, though, is that rather than simply reiterating the works of Howard in some new way, it is adding its own pieces to the mythology. Stygia has always been a horrible place, but this series, and in particular this issue, is hinting that the world of Hyboria emerged from a long ago era that was even more frightening, an age when the gods of that dark place ruled over everything. Dysarts writing suggests that Ra Sidhs ultimate goal is to resurrect this power, return to that forgotten age and even topple Thoth-Amon himself. This issue is good blood-soaked fun with black magic mixed in for good measure.

All in all, Conan & The Midnight God, the last issue in particular, does an excellent job of capturing the charm of the Conan stories while taking it in a new direction never covered by the original work. Good, blood-soaked fun.

And that is where Lawless really shines. While readers may be able to relate to what Tracy is doing, and perhaps even why, hints regarding the futility of his task are littered throughout the book. Whether its his conversation with Leo, the anti-hero from Coward, or his growing attraction to one of the thieves crew, the book projects a growing certainty that what Tracy does will make little or no difference. But he does it anyway. If nihilism, action and hard-boiled morality are your idea of fun, Criminal is for you.

In all forms of literature, though, the focus of revenge tales is often on how hard it is and how bad the people seeking it are. Criminal certainly doesnt forget this, but it also brings to light that revenge is a complicated thing, often muddled with uncertainty. This makes for a much more human and compelling comic.

Overall, Cthulhu Tales #5 is an enjoyable read that provides two different takes on aspects of the Lovecraft mythology. No mean feat for something that's been around for the better part of a century.

The beginning of Dominion heavily hints at the idea that this strange plague is a new type of germ warfare. As to who is attacking the city of Chicago or why, we are left to guess at these questions. The flaw in granting individuals cosmic powers in an attempt to destroy their civilization has one obvious flaw; what prevents these individuals from turning away from the corruptors purpose and helping their fellow man? The last page of the book provides an excellent answer to this as well as a great reason to look forward to issue #2.

The Power Down story arc will also keep most readers guessing. While in the flashback beginning Mitchell seems to revel in his powers, in the present of 2003 he seems more thrilled to be free from them. Whether this has anything to do with the sinister changes that Zeller hints at or not, its hard to say, but the last few pages will leave readers as confused as the mayor. Except well be looking forward to the conclusion.

While Galveston is an odd bit of history, this series seems to be moving in the direction of a fun rogue's tale, rather than some sort of hard-biting look at the piracy days of old, so anyone looking for a comment on LaFitte and Bowie's involvement in the slave trade will be disappointed. Which is fine by this reviewer -- if the first issue promises anything, Galveston will be a rollicking tale that is part cowboy, part pirate and a whole lot of fun.

Regardless, the book is a fun read and should be particularly entertaining for younger readers. It takes on the old idea of heroism and pushes it into a modern light.

Blending pulp science fiction with historical pieces, Hiding in Time makes for a fun story. While this reviewer missed the first issue, the second is good enough that Ill be keeping an eye out for the third.

Hunters Moon is a cinematic experience without having to limit its content to the time limit of a movie. It is engaging and will hook the reader into waiting impatiently for issue #2.

The one downside of Hunters Moon is how long it has taken for the second issue to come out. This is a shame as the links between books is even more important than the average comic. For anyone who picked up #1, I would suggest sitting down and re-reading it before cracking #2 open.

Overall, though, this isnt enough to sink Hunters Moon as the books solid narrative and character development make it stand out. If you havent picked this up, its the best book out right now that you arent reading. Go pick up issues 1 & 2 before reading this one.

In addition to excellently adapting an old tale to the modern age, issue #2 of Infinite Horizon provides readers with the swashbuckling excitement and hard tragedy that were an engrained part of the original story. This six part series should be a great read for any fan of The Odyssey as well as fans of struggling against all odds stories.

Part cyberpunk, part interstellar sci-fi, and all comedy, Intergalactic makes for a fun book. Unfortunately, youll probably need to order it from your LCS, but itll be worth the effort.

All in all, theres a great deal to like about Intergalactic. If you are looking for a book thats fun and funny, pick this one up.

The first issue of Nacropolis is a bit of an odd duck and may take more than one reading to really pull all of it together for the reader. It's weird enough yet familiar enough to make it worth checking out.

This is a amusing book that makes use of various science fiction conventions in order to lampoon just about all of them. If youre looking for something to make you laugh out loud, pick this one up.

While comparisons to such an icon as Wolverine will always haunt Ripclaw, this first issue does a good job of setting the warrior up for his own set of worthy adventures. If you enjoy a good bit of over-the-top adventure with some mean street sensibilities, pick this up.

At the end of Potters Field readers will be left with more questions than answers about John Doe and his mysterious mission. However, this first issue is told in such an entertaining fashion that readers will actually want to know more.

Samnees art continues to be fantastic in black & white. Theres not a moment when the reader will lose track of the action or not be able to discern volumes from a characters expression. Unfortunately, issue #32 marks the end of Queen & Country for at least a year. Hopefully, well see Samnees work on another project in the very near future.

The fifth issue, while not perhaps the most exciting PHD to date, is an excellent piece of storytelling. It is subtle, intelligent and intriguing. A hard blend to find in a genre where super-powered individuals can be found blowing up continents.

This issue concludes the daemonite story arc. With a dramatic exit, reminiscent of old Justice League cartoons, the bad guy disappears underground, swearing he will return again to wreck havoc upon PHD. Hopefully, hell stay underground for awhile.

Gage and team have a good deal of fun taking the extremes and ridiculousness that are inherent in the super-hero genre and putting them into a mundane, everyday frame. In between the lasers, the mind control and pyrokinetics, people talk about marriages, old friends and how they make a living. They are people just trying to make their way in the world. Unfortunately for them, someones trying to kill them while they do it.

There will be a few snags for some readers. For instance, Brook's willingness to abandon her fiance comes across as a bit shallow, but you can shrug that off by assuming that she is, in fact, shallow. But there are lots of interesting and unanswered questions that should make keeping up with this series interesting. Not the least of which will be watching Carey and Kotian play with the mental imagery they've setup at the end.

Putting those and a few other items aside, The Order makes for a fun read. It weaves the super-human with some decidedly human elements, giving it the feel of a super-hero story that could happen in your backyard.

All in all, though, the entire book is a good read. At one point in the book it is hinted that Frank Simms, who is already a hard man, has a life of pain and death in front of him. Perhaps if we are lucky well get to see more of him in the future of The Ride.

All in all, The Victorian Horrors of Old Mauch Chunk #1 is an interesting setup to what could be a very fun, very weird story. If you are looking for something different, check it out.

The fact that the shot Ironhide takes to send him into his millennium sleep is extremely similar to the shot he took for Rodimus in the ongoing Transformers should make readers wonder if they'll be seeing him in the future. In the mean time, though, Ironhide looks to be a fun, new look into an old character.

All in all, the one fault of Vikings #2 is that it is painfully short. Not enough seems to happen in the space of its pages, particularly if you pick it up without having read the first issue. But that's a forgivable, perhaps even intentional, decision on the creative team's part, as the work as a whole promises to be beautiful and deep. Let's hope that's the case.

The fight between the Hulk and Iron Man leads to the best moment of the first issue, where the jets missiles create a fiery flashback that lets the reader briefly into the mind of the Hulk and guarantees the green giants victory. While this may be very gratifying for any Hulk fans, or Stark haters, it really isnt enough to elevate the entire book to the epic story it aspires to be.

A question that is bound to come up, again and again, is why are the heroes standing beside those that cast Bruce into space? While there is more than one answer to this, perhaps one for every hero, the answer for The Thing is obviously, If youre only their friend in the good times, then youre not their friend. Needless to say, the second issue of World War Hulk is extremely well done and a great read.

While Incredible Hulk #106 and World Breaker are mostly exposition to get everyone on the same page before the main event, both are easy reads. World War Hulk has the potential to be a great Marvel event that could cleanse the bad taste that was left by Civil War.

All in all, though, the first issue is good enough that readers will want to stick around to see if the questions raised have answers. A cool, level-headed titular character living in a violent, anarchic world with a domineering military force on the fringe whats not to like?

All in all, an attention to detail on most every level is what makes ZeroKiller work. While there are some incongruous bits, such as the existence of modern military hardware in a society that stopped developing in 1973, overall it works well and makes for an intriguing story.

Regardless, most of the information revealed in this issue of ZeroKiller continues to push forward, promising the readers more of this in depth story. ZeroKiller continues to be an absorbing and compelling tale.

The book is a good ending to Careys run on the Hellblazer line. A fun bag of demons, werewolves and mystery.

Diggle, one can guess from his handling of Constantine, is an old fan of the series, and he stays true to the old rogue. Bound and seemingly helpless, Constantine does what he does best: takes advantage of his enemys weaknesses and turns the tables on him. While readers will probably see the ending coming about three quarters of the way through the book, it is vintage Constantine. Long time fans will most likely crack a smile, feeling like they are in on a private joke.

While this may not be a great Hellblazer issue, it is definitely one that regular readers should pick up. Andy is definitely taking the old misanthrope somewhere, and this issue is possibly an important piece to the puzzle.

The ending of this issue is promising as well as it suggests well see more of the addled Jesus next issue. Stay tooned.

While not the strongest issue of the series, Wormwood is still enjoyable in its low humor even if it fails in its higher concepts. Hopefully, Ennis' busy writing schedule will allow him to pay more attention to this title in the next few months.

The art alone could be the selling point; Wrightson is at the top of his form here, and the pencils combined with the color make for some truly hair raising moments. So pick it up off the rack and read through the first few pages. If you are a fan of good horror, youll most likely walk straight to the register with it.

The ending of this issue is somewhat questionable. Stosh is a man looking to die; why else would you follow a train of zombies out to the middle of nowhere? This makes his decision at the end of the book a bit confusing, but not unjustifiable. Regardless, it does make for a good setup that will cause readers to look for the third issue when it comes out next month.

Then again, maybe thats the point. Id still recommend waiting for the second issue before picking this issue up. Hopefully, the next one will give us more to chew on.

While it will most likely be revealed that this evil-doer and Morrison are working together in some nefarious railroad plot, the story of Streets of Glory is an enjoyable one, if seemingly predictable. However, given the writers obvious love of the genre and capabilities, that statement could prove to be very wrong by the time its all over.

Overall, issue #86 will be a good read for fans of the series, particularly those who enjoy it enough to keep up with the circuitous maneuverings within the Trust. Outsiders and fair weather fans will most likely find this issue confusing from start to finish.

The art and production of the book is the same high quality as other Red 5 comics. You wont feel short changed on the art or quality of the book. However, this first issue is a big of a rough start to a promising premise with a talented and funny writer.

Brawl certainly wont be for everyone, but thats part of its charm. If youre looking for a book that will challenge you, you should pick this one up. Be prepared to be puzzled, to be disgusted and to crack a smile or two.

The end has a good twist, leading the reader down a blind alley only to find a beautiful woman there instead of what was expected. However, it really isnt enough to prevent the feeling that this has been done before. If youre a big fan of Moons art (and theres every reason to be) or Fraction's clever dialogue and tangential style of writing, then Casanova #8 will definitely be a good read for you. Otherwise, keep your two bucks.

The writing, particularly the dialogue, in the latter half of the book does make it feel like this issue is just a setup to get the Death Dealer into the story. The team behind Death Dealer seems to have taken the shadowed axe man and cast him into the role of an elemental force, something unstoppable once it has been brought forth, amoral and unquestioning. It should be interesting to see what happens once it has been unleashed.

If you enjoy your super-hero tales with a mythical spin, Devi #11 is a good place to jump in on the series. But only if you pay attention and have the patience to read through to the end.

But if you move beyond that, the exploitation elements are where the humor (and the horror) of the story les. Therein lies the kitsch in this zombie goulash. Escape of the Living Dead Annual takes a tried and true hymn from the zombie book and does fun and amusing things with it. The end strikes the truest note and alone makes reading the book worth it.

All of this is weaved together to make for an excellent exposition. Since this first issue manages to pull together most of the familiar elements of Lovecraftian tales, it certainly makes one wonder where the Fall of Cthulhu creative team will take the reader next.

While this may be an introduction story of the creature called Sysyphyx, Fall of Cthulhu would have been better off leaving the origin of it cloaked in shadow. The series continues to be an interesting exploration of new territories of Lovecrafts work, but this issue is one readers should leave alone.

The action moves along pretty fast which may add to this confusion as the bodies start piling up. While this is good in some ways, it also means that a number of the front characters get killed off before you really have a chance to become attached to them. There are a few characters, though, that are given page room to develop. Hopefully well see more of them in the future.

Hopefully, well see more India Authentic titles from Virgin in the near future. Goodness knows theres enough material.

Gravel #2 should be a good, fun read for any fan of Ellis. It sets up a nice developing plot that promises cussing and violence as well as Ellis' usual entertaining commentary on what is and what should be.

While a good grasp of Hellboy history will certainly aid any reader with Darkness Calls, it isnt completely necessary. The story is strong enough that it may also make some readers curious enough to learn more about what has passed before. However, whether or not readers will enjoy this book will greatly depend on how much they enjoy the mood it creates throughout.

Unfortunately, though, these last two points arent really enough to save The New Warriors from being unremarkable. Unless youre a big The New Warriors fan, this issue will most likely leave you with the feeling that youve read this book before.

The Nightly News is deluded, dangerous and has many a point to make. This comic reminds me of that street preacher that everyone is afraid to speak with.

Even if those questions go unanswered, the ending of issue #5 promises a violent and bloody climax in the upcoming issue. If you enjoyed the first issues of this series, then it promises to be great fun.

If nothing else, The Nightly News is an ambitious book, in the art and the scope of its subject matter. While this final installment provides visceral thrills with it violence against generally maligned targets, the overall resolution is disappointing.

Ennis does try to slide some social commentary into this issue, but it is ill-suited and badly out of place. With the other excesses of the book, what little seriousness he tries to sandwich in is easily overlooked or dismissed. There is a crack at Ronald Reagan that pops up in a conversation between El Presidente and Barracuda, though, which is as funny as it is surreal. Which kind of sums up this issue as a whole.

All in all, the first issue of Raise the Dead is a decent, if not great, setup for the rest of the story. It should be interested to see where this goes.

While Repo isnt the most original story, particularly in the characterizations of its protagonists, and it doesnt claim to be. It tells the reader right up front that, this is the future they promised us, all nasty pollution, violence and social disparity. If youve been jonesing for a fun cyberpunk adventure then Repo is the place to find it.

Regardless of some of the problems, The Sadhu: Wheel of Destiny has good potential to become an engaging and entertaining piece of historical fiction. Provided the main character becomes more flushed out in proceeding issues, it should be interesting to see how he handles the opposing forces the book brings forth.

Unfortunately, if you are more accustomed to the fast pace or constant tension of a zombie film, it can also be boring. While this issue does end on a cliffhanger, a book that continues to run simply cant be constant zombie hordes at the gate, treachery or collateral accidents. While in many ways, Kirkman has overcome this by constantly seeding the book with new twists, new readers who jump into issue #38 will most likely be pretty bored as this issue deals more with existing characters they wont be familiar with. However, constant readers will find the book to be of the same high caliber that theyve come to expect from The Walking Dead.

All of this, though, needs something to tie it together, and thats where Unique fails in the first issue. Not in the explanation, itself, which is interesting. I wont get into it; youll just have to buy the book. However, the delivery for the explanation breaks uniformity with the rest of the comic. As mentioned before, much of the book relies on showing the reader the world as Jon sees it and allowing us to draw our own conclusions. Unfortunately, the explanation for all of this is pretty much spoon fed to the reader. Its disappointing after all the build up to have what seems to be the answer just handed to you. Regardless, Unique is a good read and has enough twists that the ending explanation may not be the explanation at all.

While Unique has brought its readers into an interesting situation with interesting characters, it doesnt appear that it will be able to come to a satisfactory end in its allotted space of three issues. You may want to wait for the trade on this one.

The art in this series will be hit and miss for many readers. On one hand, it is clean, easy to follow and different than most comic art out there right now. On the other hand, proportions are often extremely out of wack. There are points when Simon looks like hes had a gigantic chin implant.

All of this is tied together with an oddly disjointed but strangely appropriate set of lyrics that weaves throughout the issue. Much the same as #2, the lyrics are confusing, a bit disjointed and completely alluring. Young Liars promises to be a damn fine book.

So if you've been along for the side so far, pick up this issue in the hopes that it'll be an essential piece to the Young Liars puzzle. If you haven't, in the name of all that's holy, don't start here. It'll either make you hate the book and (incorrectly) think Lapham is an idiot, or give you the impulse to clean your brain with a spatula (possibly looking for spiders). Go back to the beginning, which I can't recommend enough.

At one point in this issue, Danny states, "If you think I'm going to try and make sense of this, think again." While this suggests Lapham knows he's written a confusing mess, and thereby one can hope he'll pull it all together for the reader, this marks the second issue that's just disorientating to the point of being bad.

While Gamekeeper may be off to a bit of a rough start, it does drop some tantalizing hints that make the second issue worth looking forward to. In addition to a thousand yard stare, Brock has a number of expressions that let the reader know hes more than just a killer hiding out in Scotland. And what is Morgans secret? And who wants it? For right now, well have to wait to find out.

By far the best part of Gamekeeper is the art, which is distinctive and beautiful. The pencils are detailed and graceful, creating scenes of action and emotion interchangeably. The colors employed provide a great sense of mood, time and place. All of these are important, particularly in this issue as scenes move in chronology as well as geography. Singhs work alone nearly makes the comic worth picking up.

All in all, Black Diamond is a rather ludicrous and interesting setup for what promises to be Grade A Bang-Bang. While this first issue is a bit slow to start off, the quality of the art and writing certainly make the second issue worth looking for.

While the creators behind Black Diamond are attempting to do something a bit different than the average comic book fair, which is admirable, issue #2 just doesnt come off well. The dialogue, which has its moments, often drags on. As conversation is central to most of the book, facial features are of importance, but the art often fails in this regard, particularly around the eyes. All in all, Id say wait for the next issue.

While Killing Girl may have potential, this first issue doesnt put the series off to a good start. If you havent already, I wouldnt pick it up.

If you are a big fan of the series or just enjoy melodrama with a super-hero twist, this issue of Noble Causes is for you. The moral ambiguities make for an interesting story in a 90210 kind of way. However, this issue doesnt really bring anything new or overly interesting to the table.

The last line of the book is by far the best bit and leaves one wondering what will happen in the coming issues. Hopefully, The Programme will lean on way or another and become what its creators wanted it to be.

While Strongarm has some gorgeous art that is nicely toned, the plot and pacing will leave many a reader out in the cold. The book often reads as if something fell out of it on the way to the printers.

On the final page the reader is given what most people picked up this title are probably looking for; the Authority hits the scene with the usual attitude that promises to deliver some interesting conflict with their former associates. However, to get to this point you dont need to pick up this issue.

Blood Nation is an interesting concept that is flawed in execution. While it certainly has its moments, they simply arent enough to justify the cover price.

As much as I enjoy a short read at a reduced price Crossed just doesn't offer up enough of a hook to make this story stand out from the zombie/berserker/infected crowd. Pass on it and wait for #1.

All in all, if you want something pretty to look at and you dont mind skipping the dialogue or ignoring the plot, Dust is a good book for you. However, at $3.99 a shot, its awfully hard not getting an entire story rather than just a visual one.

Dynamo5 is an interesting concept that is flawed in its creative execution. In the end, this first issue is a flat book that doesnt deliver much in the way of entertainment.

Jack Staff's seemingly unconnected bits don't come completely together, or at least they didn't for this reviewer. The pages introducing Jack himself didn't seem to be for much other than to watch Jack beat a robo-knight to death with a conveniently placed rock. However, the book has enough going for it that it should be interesting to see if Mr. Grist actually pulls together its seemingly unaffiliated elements.

So to sum up: Stupid and insulting. Hopefully, Army@Love will die a quick death.