Nina Bird's Comic Reviews

Reviewer For: Comic Bastards Reviews: 55
7.3Avg. Review Rating

8
2 Sisters #1

Sep 16, 2015

This book was worth reading, and its distinctive presentation certainly left me feeling a bit gloomy and muted. A story that leaves an emotional impact is worthwhile, and I'd certainly recommend this one. Despite its confused moments and the unnecessary details in an otherwise stylistically minimalist telling, this book was interesting and engaging, and I thoroughly enjoyed it.

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6
A Train Called Love #1

Oct 7, 2015

This comic is absurd and funny and weird. I didn't know what I was getting into, but I'm definitely glad I have this one a chance. The story jumps around, following these different characters with extremely different plotlines, and it works. Between all the "seriously? Seriously???" moments, it's hard to pinpoint what, exactly, I enjoyed about this comic. All I can say is that it's unique, and it's interesting, and it's got me sticking around for #2.

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10
Adventure Time #33

Oct 29, 2014

This a great comic for fans of the show, but even if you've never seen an episode, it's easy to follow. I haven't been reading the Adventure Time comic until now, but that's about to change. #33 was fantastic, and I want more.

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10
Adventure Time #34

Dec 3, 2014

I seriously recommend this comic, even for those who haven't seen the show. It's not difficult to pick up on the what and the who's who, and readers who are unfamiliar just have to roll with it, as Finn would. Woke up in an elderly body? No sweat. Ooo is covered in ice and snow? Oh, sure thing. Roll with it, turn the page, and see what happens next.

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6
Adventure Time: Fionna & Cake - Card Wars #1

Jul 15, 2015

This was a good set-up for what seems to be a fun mini-series, and I know fans of Fionna and Cake are eager for more of this duo's adventures. Card Wars is an animated and dynamic game that goes beyond the cards, and among the plays is a literal tornado wall of fire. I absolutely want in on a game where you can play a literal tornado wall of fire. This is what dreams are made of. This game is appropriately dramatic and extreme and Wilson brings it to the page nicely, as well as the melodramatic moments peppered throughout the issue- a dramatic gasp here, an extreme close-up there, and let's not forget the "dramatic fling." It all suits the storytelling perfectly, and makes Card Wars a fun and endearing read.

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6
Bob's Burgers #3

Oct 29, 2014

This is a good comic for fans of the show; it captures each of the character's voices perfectly, and manages to hold onto the tone and humor that make the show so great. I can't imagine a non-viewer really enjoying the comic; you need to know the characters to really appreciate the comic.

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6
Bob's Burgers #4

Nov 19, 2014

This is ultimately a comic for fans of the show. While a casual reader might be mildly entertained, the comic assumes the reader understands and is familiar with each character's unique personality, and with how the family dynamic works. This is a delightful supplement to the show, but not really a standalone comic.

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8
Bob's Burgers #5

Dec 17, 2014

The writers keep the humor perfectly in line with the show, and each character's piece is true to their respective voice. Overall, Bob's is a light but hilarious comic. For those who watch the show, I continue to recommend this comic. For those who don't watch it, I recommend starting the show, then picking up this comic for the hell of it.

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6
Creeple Peeple #1

Jan 21, 2015

The science is, of course, the core of this story. It's what connects these three students, it's their motivation, and it's what'll keep the readers interested. We've got our Gooze creatures, our science experiment gone wrong; now we've just got to see what they'll do and how they'll disrupt our character's lives. Creeple Peeple is a fun read.

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6
Creeple Peeple #2

Mar 26, 2015

There's something perhaps a bit more ominous brewing, but so far Creeple Peeple is just a fun read. It doesn't try to over-explain or even justify its chaos, and I'm nodding along with every outlandish moment and every absurd decision made in this comic. This issue was a prime example of "that escalated quickly," which I really enjoyed.

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4
Creeple Peeple #3

Apr 22, 2015

As for the plot, we seem to go nowhere fast. We had something going with the Creeples, and that got stopped short in favor of the cult storyline. This issue was the conclusion, apparently, but nothing felt concluded. It's like we stopped short, never quite made it to the finish line. This comic was perhaps over-ambitious, and in the end found itself with too much to wrap up.

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6
Deep Gravity #3

Oct 29, 2014

Deep Gravity features space and monsters and has enough action to keep me interested for now, but the writers need to work on the characters a bit more. All action without characters to sustain the plot makes for a pretty weak story.

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4
Doodle Jump #4

Oct 29, 2014

Who knows, maybe I'm too old for this and there are kids out there who genuinely enjoy this comic. If that's the case, that's awesome. But when there are so many engaging, funny, and action-packed stories out there, in whatever form of media, I can't imagine anyone of any age actively choosing the Doodle Jump comic.

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8
Edward Scissorhands #1

Oct 22, 2014

This is a comic that I would definitely recommend to fans of the film. For those who haven't seen the movie, this comic is for you if you like teenage adventurers, spooky tales and mysteries, or gentle souls trapped in destructive situations.

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6
Edward Scissorhands #2

Nov 26, 2014

Overall, this issue wasn't particularly exciting, but it was necessary to lead us readers right to the action, which will pick up in #3. We're still building the story, and #2 has done just enough to keep us interested in what comes next.

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6
Eternal #1

Dec 10, 2014

I find the concept behind this story really interesting, but so far this comic is too vague and scattered for the reader to fully follow along. The readers aren't in on it, not yet, but I'm certainly intrigued, and I'm ready to find out more.

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4
Faster than Light #1

Sep 11, 2015

This issue was underwhelming and uninteresting, though built on some potential. Space, aliens, and secrets should be enough to write a decent story, so I'll wait until #2 before truly passing judgment. I'm not exactly waiting with bated breath, though.

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10
Giant Days #2

Apr 15, 2015

The artwork is so fun as well; it adds to the humor and the melodrama perfectly, and the bright coloring adds some flair to the already lively panels. There's nothing about this comic I don't like. #1 was a great introduction to these girls, and I was already on board, but #2 truly has me sold. This was a delight to read from start to finish; I seriously can't get enough of Esther, Susan, and Daisy. The three have such distinct personalities but they mesh well and complement each other nicely. It's impossible for me to choose a favorite as they each have their own endearing quirks, and their relationship and interactions are what really have me hooked.

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8
Giant Days #3

May 13, 2015

This comic is absolutely delightful, the stories are both amusing and realistic, the characters relatable and endearing. I hope the last couple pages of this issue mean we get more of Daisy in #4; she was a bit sidelined in this one. If you're looking for a light, funny read, pick this up. Giant Days doesn't disappoint.

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8
Giant Days #4

Jun 17, 2015

There's so much I love about this comic. The friendship, the diverse characters, the dialogue, the humor and one-liners, the ordinary situations that turn absurd all too quickly" it's just all-around wonderful, and above all else, it's plain fun.

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8
Giant Days #5

Jul 15, 2015

Giant Days has always had me grinning from start to finish, and #5 was no exception. Though the melodrama seemed toned down in this issue, I have no complaints, because at this point in the series, we've got well-established characters and relationships, and they are rightfully the heart of this story.

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8
Giant Days #8

Nov 18, 2015

But overall, the characters in Giant Days face situations and feel in ways that mirror our own experiences and feelings. The difference lies in how we deal with them. While most of the issues are entirely common, the characters' uncommon methods of coping are what makes Giant Days so darn delightful.

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6
Goners #1

Oct 22, 2014

Professional hunters of supernatural creatures is not exactly a new concept, but the Latimers have their own reality show, which is pretty on point. Ghost Hunters, anyone? I find the storyline much more interesting with its focus on the children, rather than tortured, brooding semi-adults who angst over bottled-up feelings. You know what I'm talking about. Zoe and Josiah are 17 and 12 respectively, and though we don't know them well yet, we've seen a couple flashbacks with Zoe and her mom, and a couple moments with Josiah suggest he may be a genius-type: he's tinkering with a toaster when he's introduced, and later we see his method of pulling a name out of his memory. Between these kids, the Bakaak, and this mysterious enchantment, I'm intrigued, and I'll keep reading.

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6
Goners #2

Nov 19, 2014

Goners #2 was a lot of blood, violence, and close calls, and not much plot. It's an extended action sequence, essentially, which a sprinkle of flashbacks. This is fine so long as the next issue picks up with the story-telling. As fun as the fight scenes are, we need a bit more substance, especially so early in the story when we don't quite understand everything that is happening.

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6
Goners #3

Dec 17, 2014

Goners #3 was wonderfully frantic, urgent, and intense; between racing to get answers and fighting to stay alive, this issue had a lot of solid action and characterization. The plot thickens, and our youngest is dead. I'm sad to say goodbye, though I'm eager to find out why Josiah was a target and such a prized possession. Goners has been perfectly cryptic, but it's a fun ride.

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6
Goners #4

Jan 21, 2015

I'm so ready for the next issue; Mama Latimer is a tentacle creature and I absolutely need to know what happens next. #4 had me a little bored honestly; we're moving quickly and yet there isn't enough to hold my interest. But they've hooked me in again with this Mama Latimer business. That's their trick: keeping us interested with these shock endings. I need a touch more plot to stay committed, but I'm so sold on these supernatural creatures and the action and all the dark, twisted bits holding this story together. It's an action-heavy story, and the characters are rather weak, so if you're looking for a character-driven narrative" well, if you haven't dropped out yet, it's probably about time. If you're still here, you know what you're getting into: it's all blood and guts and ominous creatures in the shadows.

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6
Goners #5

Feb 18, 2015

Overall I've enjoyed this series well enough, but this issue in particular stood out. It was urgent, it was emotional, and it had just the right amount of drama.

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8
Goners #6

Mar 25, 2015

This was a solid issue to wrap up the story. It was fast-paced, but wasn't overwhelming. There were some badass moments with and some feel-good moments to make it a proper ending.

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10
Lumberjanes #7

Oct 15, 2014

Lumberjanes #7 ends with the power of friendship saving the day, but in the process one of the Roanoke Cabin girls has to sacrifice her "alive" status. She does it willingly, because friendship to the max, but it's pretty terrible. Hopefully Diane is a generous supernatural type, and uses her new power over the universe to bring our friend back.

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8
Lumberjanes #8

Nov 19, 2014

This issue was absolutely ridiculous, but in a wonderful and entertaining way. We got a lot of answers, we got Jo back, and the power of friendship literally knocked a group of boys unconscious. Ripley's moment with complete power over the universe was perfectly in character. Apollo and Artemis' fights were extremely entertaining: they're gods, but they're also just squabbling siblings who only pause the fighting to agree that their dad is super embarrassing. This was a really fun read, and now that this arc is over, I'm looking forward to what else the creators come up with. This comic's vibrant colors, quick quips, pop culture references, and emphasis on friendship above all else make a really fun, endearing read that is truly all-ages. #8 packed a lot into one issue, but it wasn't overwhelming, and nothing was glossed over. The writers do well balancing the barrage of answers in the issue with the action that wraps it all up in a very neat- and colorful- bow.

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8
Lumberjanes #9

Dec 17, 2014

Each scary story was unique and held the voice of the respective storyteller perfectly. This was a delightful issue, with moments of friendship and humor entwined with the spooky tales. The various art styles made each of the different stories stand out without being distracting, and watching Jen attempt to create a scary story was entirely amusing. This was a fun and all-around enjoyable issue to read.

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6
Lumberjanes #10

Jan 21, 2015

The best part of this new arc is that we already know the characters well; the girls and their relationships are established, and we know how they fit and work as a unit. It makes reading this issue like reading about your own friends, like a warm welcome back after a long weekend away. I'm so excited to see how this arc plays out, and to see how the girls and their friendships- and romantic relationships!- develop further. And let's not forget the badges: will Ripley earn that ballroom dancing badge? Fingers crossed.

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8
Lumberjanes #11

Feb 18, 2015

I don't know that I can recommend this comic enough. I know it's not for everyone, but I love how bright it is. The quips, the relatable characters, the bright colors, and the absurd situations all together make for a really enjoyable read.

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10
Lumberjanes #12

Mar 18, 2015

April gets a bit frantic trying to destroy the competition, but Jo suggests that the reason they haven't earned a badge yet is because they've been trying to win. They end up going for quality over quantity, and it" doesn't work. They still lose. Poor April. But they're then reunited with Mal and Molly, as well as the Bear Woman, and while this arc has been fun, I'm happy they're all together again. This group is just so delightful, and they complement each other so well. While I'm excited to see how Mal and Molly's relationship develops, I'm all about friendship to the max.

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10
Lumberjanes #13

Apr 15, 2015

This issue is incredibly endearing, and if you haven't been following this comic, you should give #13 a shot. If you're already reading Lumberjanes, you'll want to get to know our girls a bit more and see their first moments as a group. Plus, Brooke Allen is back on art! So I don't have a single complaint about this issue. Honestly, if you're not reading Lumberjanes by now, it's time to get your life right.

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8
Lumberjanes #14

May 20, 2015

We can probably expect to see more of Rosie this time around, and it'll be interesting to get bits of the Lumberjane history as well as Rosie's own personal history. The bearwoman's also got a role in this arc, and it's always fun having her around. Overall, a good read, and if you haven't gotten into Lumberjanes yet, this could be a place to jump in. The friendships are well established and the adventures just keep coming.

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10
Lumberjanes #17

Aug 26, 2015

Another adventure comes to a close and the gang's gotten Jen back, but we've still got questions galore. It wouldn't be so strange to discover that time at the Lumberjanes camp passes differently than the outside world– campers can literally access another realm containing dinosaurs through an outhouse, so weird passage of time wouldn't be the weirdest thing by far. The camp seems to hold too many secrets to discover them all, but gosh darn it, our Lumberjanes are sure going to try.

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8
Mercy Thompson #2

Nov 12, 2014

Despite the heavy themes, this isn't a particularly dark comic. At least, not yet, but I hope it stays this way. It's not unnecessarily gruesome, and it's all incredibly realistic and human- werewolves aside. The story is detailed and engaging. I was entertained from start to finish, and I'm very curious to work out the mystery alongside Mercy, Adam, and the others. I'm also interested to see what abilities Mercy has, and to see them at play. So far, she's shifted into a coyote, and been able to sense that there was magic in Jillian Cross's house. I want to see what else she can do, and I want to get some answers.

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6
Mercy Thompson #3

Dec 10, 2014

This is an interesting and easy read, but so far it's fairly predictable and expected. Despite the twisted murders, there isn't much in this comic that is shocking or surprising. Jill is the fae, but we've suspected since the first issue. Jill kills Kayla, but that was clearly going to happen from the third page of this issue. I'm enjoying this comic, but I hope for something more, for it to push some boundaries or surprise me in some way. I don't mind predictable in this case, because the story is interesting and the plot moves at a solid pace. But I wouldn't mind a twist thrown in there.

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8
Mercy Thompson #4

Jan 14, 2015

Mercy Thompson continues to be a fun story of magic and werewolves and murder. We're still building, we're coming to conclusions and piecing together the bits of information we've been given, and I'm sure it'll get worse before it gets better. Us readers are a few steps ahead of Mercy and co., but we still don't quite know what will happen next. So far, Mercy Thompson has been rather predictable, and so I can guess what the next issue will bring. Predictability isn't a bad thing here. The readers are getting exactly what they pay for. It's an interesting read with a fun plot, but it won't keep you awake at night. You get magic, ritualistic murder, werewolves, and teenage angst all wrapped up in a mystery. It's fun, if you like that kind of thing.

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6
Mercy Thompson #5

Feb 18, 2015

It seems this arc will be concluded in the next issue; we'll finally get our showdown. This series has been pretty low-key so far, and I'd guess the next issue will be along the same lines. It's not terribly dramatic or action-packed, but it's a decent story with just enough of a creep factor to keep readers interested- if ritualistic murder is your thing. I've enjoyed this series for what it is, but I'm ready for it to conclude. This issue wasn't too much of anything, but it had just enough information to push the story into the next issue.

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8
Mercy Thompson #6

Mar 25, 2015

I felt the story ended rather abruptly and anticlimactically. #6 wrapped it up with minimal drama, which surprised me after all the ritualistic deaths and the creepy fae woman. But overall I enjoyed this story, and I'm at least satisfied with the ending.

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8
Mystery Girl #1

Nov 23, 2015

Mystery Girl #1 was great from start to finish. The premise is solid, the characters are vibrant, and the story moves at just the right pace. This is a promising start to what is bound to be a wild ride.

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6
Secret Identities #1

Feb 18, 2015

Though we're still getting to know this team, I'm pretty interested already. I love witty banter mid-battle, what can I say? I also really enjoyed seeing the team members outside of their superhero personas and seeing how their lives are messy. It was interesting to see these moments upfront rather than picking through them as the characters develop. This is looking like a fun, action-filled comic. This was a solid introduction; now I'm looking forward to seeing these characters unravel further, and to seeing the damage that Crosswind does.

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8
Secret Identities #2

Mar 18, 2015

Good art, a fun team with both intriguing individual characters and realistic dynamics between members. Does well balancing the action, the personal, and the intrigue.

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8
Sleepy Hollow #1

Oct 15, 2014

Each issue also features a bonus short comic by Noelle Stevenson; this issue, the two-page comic shows Ichabod and Abbie on a night off, though even a night off isn't complete without a supernatural appearance.

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8
Sleepy Hollow #2

Nov 19, 2014

Bennett captures the relationship between Ichabod and Abbie perfectly, and writes all of the characters well and in line with the show's characterization. Coelho's art is gorgeous, and paired with Bonvillain on colors, I was really stunned by a lot of the panels. This comic balances action and supernatural elements with strong relationships and well-written characters, and while fans of the show will certainly appreciate it more, non-viewers will also enjoy it.

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8
Sleepy Hollow #4

Jan 28, 2015

#4 concludes this story arc, but I hope we get more of this comic. I adore Bennett's portrayal of Abbie and Ichabod. The action and supernatural elements fit in perfectly with the tone and pace of the show. Bennett does a wonderful job of showcasing the relationships that hold this series together while still keeping the action the focus of the story. Coelho's art is amazing, and Bonvillain's coloring is gorgeous. It's an all-around well put together comic.

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8
Sleepy Hollow: Origins #1

Apr 8, 2015

If you're a fan of the show and of these characters, consider picking this up.

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8
Stringers #1

Aug 26, 2015

So far, I'm sold on Stringers. The characters feel comfortable, the story is interesting, and the action is non-stop. I'm on board.

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8
Stringers #2

Oct 5, 2015

Everything I loved about the first issue carried over into this one. It maintains that fast, action-packed feel, and keeps up the quick and witty dialogue. Paul and Nick play off each other so well, and I'd love to know more about their partnership as well as the characters as individuals. The story balances action with humor without forcing it or overdoing it, and it makes for a really fun read. I'm ready for #3– these poor guys just can't catch a break, and I need to know what happens next!

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6
Stringers #3

Oct 28, 2015

I don't expect this break up to last, and I don't expect the mysterious USB to be forgotten. The drama is now expanding outwards, which means it's bound to get messy- or, messier. First Speaze, then Michelle- it's just bad news for anyone who's crossed Paul and Nick's path that night. In this case, messy is good. I don't want my danger neatly packaged- I want it to leak all over and ruin my nice carpet. We're not quite there yet, but we could get there in the next couple of issues.

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6
The Wicked + The Divine #7

Jan 21, 2015

I appreciate the commitment to portraying heavy emotions such as grief in a realistic manner; Gillen balances action with real, hard emotions and issues like depression, and he does it well in #7.

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6
The ZooHunters #1

Nov 5, 2014

So far, there isn't much to say about Zoo Hunters. #1 is simply setting the stage for what I hope will be an interesting comic, but this issue wasn't particularly exciting or memorable. It does have a great premise, and Steigerwald has an opportunity to develop Ty into a well-written, fleshed-out character. Set in space, jumping from world to world, there are endless possibilities here; I just hope that they are fully explored.

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10
Zodiac Starforce #3

Nov 11, 2015

I'm thoroughly enjoying Zodiac Starforce. This comic is fun, bright, and colorful, both in terms of visuals and plot. The characters are entertaining and diverse, the friendships feel real, and the superpowered zodiac aspect is just so cool and badass. This is a really fun story, but it's not all rainbows and happy vibes- there's plenty of action, dark threats, emotional tension, and monsters to balance out the cheery colors. Zodiac Starforce has a touch of everything, and it all blends together to create a truly exciting story.

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