Olly MacNamee Comic Reviews

A return to the Fearscape as well as the return of familiar faces, plus the odd new one too. Sounds like a sequel to me, even if pretentious murderer and narrator Henry Henry would rather we don't refer to this follow-up as such.

Our hero hospitalised means the spotlight shifts onto other characters in this sequel that's not a sequel but a dark interlude.

‘Absolute Superman’ #15 provides a much-needed break for Kal-El and his new friends after the events of the last issue. However, it’s also an opportunity to lay the groundwork for a new story. Jason Aaron writes while guest artist Juan Ferreyra makes Superman shine!

An all-action issue that sees antagonist and immortal Ayesha ramp up her plans and attack this league of extra-ordinary women. All beautifully and meticulously illustrated by Paul McCaffrey from a Lavie Tidhar script. We also get the rather shocking introduction of Queen Victoria, worried for Britain's future. A Britain standing on the cusp of huge changes. Lavish, Victoriana/Steampunk action throughout.

It's a comic book that will evoke find memories of the better produced Hammer House of Horror films of the late 60s/early 70s, or even Malcolm McDowell in Royal Flash (1975). A fondly remembered, but often romanticised vision of the past that doesn't come without a certain tone of terror, especially as much of this last issue takes place under the cover of darkness.

As well as the welcome return of Jon Kent into his own title, 'Adventures of Superman: Jon Kent '#1, is also a statement of intent from Tom Taylor, Clayton Henry, Jordie Bellaire and Wes Abbott. A comic book that gives DC Comic book fans a good deal of crowd-pleasing characters and dramatic moments that grabs you by the lapels and draws you in from the very first page. A must-read book if there ever was one. If you aren't a Jon Kent fan yet, you will be after this powerhouse of a debut issue.

'America Jesus: Revelations' #1 sees Satan in the Whitehouse and planning his endgame for total global domination. With influences ranging from classic horror films like 'Omen III' to more contemporary conspiracies, this is a comic that is both familiar but also frightening in parts. A strong start for this much anticipated series.

The world stand at the abyss and the evil architect of a potential new world order is having a crisis of conscience. That, and God walks the Earth and is taking names!

I think it's safe to say 'American Jesus: Revelation' #3 is not your usual Mark Millar production. It may have started off as an even darker spin on 'The Omen', but in this concluding issue a message of hope and faith supersedes the dark horrors depicted this far. A heartwarming and holy, high-stakes tale from Millar, Peter Gross and Image Comics

'Arkham' City #1 is a wonderfully gothic affair with the characters to match. Dan Watters proves his horror credentials once more with this debut issue that is only elevated in the creep states with the artwork of Dani.

Another grim and gritty instalment of 'Arkham City' as we trawl the streets of Gotham City and drop in on criminals, cops and the interesting Doctor Jocasta Joy.

'Avengers Forever' #1 picks up where 'Avengers' #750 left off with a return to a world wiped out of its potential before it ever had the chance. A world on which we meet a very different Ant-Man to the one we are familiar with, but one who hasn't given up hope. Jason Aaron and Aaron Kuder offer up a dynamic and exciting first chapter in what will no doubt be a sprawling saga across the Marvel multiverse.

Torture and despair are the order of the day as Ronnie Reyes aka the Ghost Rider, is help captive on Earth-818 by the malevolent Black Skull in 'Avengers Forever' #2 from Marvel Comics

Alternative Avengers assemble! Ghost Rider is still a prisoner of the Black Skull and Tony Stark and friends aim to rescue him, whether he wants to be rescued or not. Another fast-paced, dynamic issue from writer Jason Aaron and artist Aaron Kuder.

The Doom of all Dooms takes centre stage in 'Avengers Forever' #5 as he waxes lyrical like the best megalomaniacs about his plans for… well, multi-universal domination. Jason Aaron continues to go large on this title with high concepts and high stakes. And, putting a good deal of fun back into comics while he's at it.

Next stop in the multiverse is a planet on which T'Challa is rocketed away as a baby for his own safety… stop me if you've heard this one before. Well, fast forward a few years and we meet him again, seemingly going though a crisis of identity. All amounting to a rather duller issue than to be expected from this otherwise great new Marvel series.

'Avengers Forever' #7 is a tense, seemingly hopeless issue that sees Steve Rogers' from across the multiverse imprisoned somewhere, sometime. With no way out. Only one of 'em won't be kept down and one Steve Rogers battles against his incarceration day-in, day-out, with the same beatdown each and every time. Jason Aaron and Aaron Kuder deliver one of the best stand-out issues of the series so far. And a reminder of what Steve Rogers means to the Marvel universe. All of them.

Another Earth destroyed by the Masters of Evil and another hero brought low. This time it's Thor, who soon enough finds a new destiny and a new path to heroism in 'Avengers Forever' #8

Avengers Forever #12 is another fantastic and fun issue as the assembles multiversal Avengers face off against an army of rampaging Mephistos. High energy and high stakes beautifully and brutally told by Jason Aaron and Aaron Kuder.

The Goddesses of Thunder enter the arena, but so do other dangers. In a seemingly never-ending battle for the fate of the multiverse, there are a good few well placed surprises, but the battle fatigue is beginning to show both on the page and for the reader in 'Avengers Forever' #13.

As an assortment of superheroes take on an army of Doctor Dooms, Avengers Forever #14, decides that expanding the size of the threat can make up for a stretch-out storyline. This feels that an issue that simply sets up the threat to be played out in the next instalment rather than an issue that adds much to an otherwise enjoyable saga from Jason Aaron and Jim Towe.

'Avengers Forever' #15 is another larger-than-life instalment in Jason Aaron's epic, carefully planned endgame for his five-year run on 'The Avengers', consummately crafted by artist Aaron Kuder. Galactus, Celestials and Mephisto tower above the all-out action on the ground - and in the sky - to deliver a battle bursting off each page.

Barbaric #1 from Vault Comics, writer Michael Moreci and Nathan Gooden is a great new comic that parodies the sword and sorcery genre as savagely as Conan cracks skulls and a great first issue. A new twist on a well-worn genre, but done with affection and a knowing wink to the readership.

'Barbaric' #2 serves up a another dose of irreverent sword, sorcery by Michael Moreci and Nathan Gooden. We learn all about Soren the necromancer from last issue and return to the deathly abbey she once called home.

Owen and his talking axe have a lot of fighting and maiming to do in 'Barbaric' #3 before the end of this first story arc. Lucky he enjoys this kind of bloody lifestyle.

Owen returns in full-on fighting mode as he and his trusty, cursed axe swing for giant vampires and other fantasy figures in 'Barbaric: Axe to Grind' #1. From Michael Moreci, Nathan Gooden, Addison Duke and Jim Campbell.

Foul-mouthed barbarian Owen and his axe are back in a one-shot that has a solid script but is let down by the artwork. He is on a mission to save Docimel from a forthcoming threat, but not all is as it seems.

'Barnstormers' #1 transports readers back to the Roaring Twenties, where we meet Hawk E Baron, ex-serviceman and one Hell of a flyer. But a man seemingly haunted by his past. One part Bonnie and Clyde and another part The Great Waldo Pepper, Scott Snyder and Tula Lotay capture the era effortlessly and evocatively through a soft-focus lens.

Scott Snyder and Tula Lotay's 'Barnstormers' #2 quickly gets off the ground with the real reason our runaway bride ran away while hinting at troubles ahead for Bixby regarding his mental health. But, that's not the worst of their problems as they do a 'Bonnie and Clyde' on a particularly wealthy family.

Garth Ennis and Liam Sharp deliver a menacing Batman not afraid to get down and dirty in the grim of Gotham City in this beautifully brutal new series from DC Black Label. Great, gruesome American gothic!

Batman continues to hunt the creature attacking Gotham's underworld criminals, but to no avail so far. More sadistic action from Garth Ennis and Liam Sharp.

'Batman: Reptilian' #3 continues to present a much darker and cynical Gotham City with a vigilante to match. This issue it's the Joker who's wearing a target on his back. But, can Batman save him in time?

Jason Todd is the target of the three Jokers. Or, rather the two surviving Clown Princes of Crime, who want to relive crimes of the past. With Red Hood in the firing line. Another derivative issue with little in the way of action, but big on atomsphere. Fabok's art saves this slow-paced story.

The final issue of one of the most hyped prestige mini-series in a while, and one that fails miserably. Another derivative take on a Batman classic, 'The Killing Joke' that doesn't add anything much to either Batman or the Joker's stories in the main DCU. Even as a sequel to 'The Killing Joke', it isn't all that great a payoff either. What a way to take the work of Alan Moore and drag it through the mud not once (Doomsday Clock) but twice. Shame on you Geoff Johns.

Bermuda #1 is a fun-filled action-adventure story from John Layman, Nick Bradshaw and Len O'Grady that's smart, sensational and stylish. An exceptional debut issue with a great appeal for both young and old comic book fans.

Action and adventure on the high seas courtesy of John Layman and Nick Bradshaw. 'Bermuda' #2 is another thrilling read with marvellous detail and a magical but dangerous new world to explore. Bobby goes looking for his sister and we go along for the ride, discovering Piratetown; a hive of scum and villainy.

Bermuda takes a short cut through another dangerous part of the island, only once again to meet a set of foes who have been stranded for decades. But that's not the biggest threat in a comic book series that's fast, furious and fun!

Bermuda #4 delivers on action and adventure big time as our eponymous hero tries as hard as she can to stop the menacing Mers from crossing over into our world with a little help from some friends.

Dark fantasy and dark fun are the order of the day in this new take on the classic hero's quest saga from Doug Wagner and Tim Odland. The seemingly cursed Prince Helgi must return the Eye of Odin to its rightful owner, or die. But to do that he must travel across a dangerous Norse landscape filled with trolls, fearful faeries and more with just two travelling companions at his side.

Trolls attack in their droves and an all-new species of fantasy folk are revealed in Beware the Eye of Odin #2 from Doug Wagner and Tim Odland. A heroic quest with all the elements that such sagas thrive upon, including the all-important magic talisman, and a curse! Fast-paced action, adventure and peril.

There is far more sword than sorcery in this 'Beware The Eye of Odin' #3 as Helgi, Stigr and Kadlin take on a whole cave-full of trolls in the penultimate issue of this fun, over-the-top fantasy series.

Our heroes come to the end of their quest, but not before a hefty price is paid. Although, by the end we get one last big twist that foreshadows possible adventures yet to come from the have-a-go heroes that do make it to the icy end.

Having thought they'd rid the universe of superheroes decades ago, The Fraternity are back to finish the job in 'Big Game' #1. A bloody, brutal but beautiful looking comic that aims to be as big and bold as 'Crisis on Infinite Earths' or 'Secret Wars', but with more swearing and violence. A good, solid first issue.

If you're a big Nemesis fan, you're going to love 'Big Game' #2. If you're rooting for the good guys… you're outta luck. Just like them.

We return to the scene of the crime, so to speak, in 'Billionaire Island: Cult of Dogs' #1 with Mark Russell and Steve Pugh delivering a debut issue crammed with well observed and well executed satire. Reporter Shelly By returns to

'Billionaire Island: Cult of Dogs' #2 is another glorious swipe at the wealthy few that many of us hold in contempt for the very reasons satirised in this new issue. While Business Dog walks around oblivious to the downfall of modern capitalism, not so much the rest of the world.

Another satirical swipe at Emperors and their new clothes with one of this issue's targets being a deserved one at that. 'Billionaire Island: Cult of Dogs' #3 continues to entertain with both the satire and story as reporter Shelly Bly seems to forever stepping into danger in a world gone to pot with very few places left to turn.

Mark Russell and Steve Pugh produce another satirically biting issue 'Billionaire Island: Cult of Dogs' #4 as the hunt for the pampered pooch continues. The stakes are high and the clock is ticking.

And so the fate of the world's richest dog comes to an end in 'Billionaire Island: Cult of Dogs' #6. But, not just the end of his story but the end to other characters stories too. You may not cry, but you very well may laugh as Mark Russell and Steve Pugh mock those most worth of our scorn, the rich, powerful, but not necessarily the brightest, as we are learning for ourselves in our own world.

'Black Tape' #1 is an evocative horror comic set against the backdrop of the Satanic panic of the Seventies and clearly, joyfully inspired by the hedonistic excesses of heavy rock. Dan Panosian lays down the lyrics while Dalibor Talaji soaks up the spotlight on art and turns the dial up to produce one of the funkiest, fearful, fabulous comics out this week.

Black Tape #2 serves up suspenseful and oft-times sensual story and art with more than an edge of danger and creeping, foreboding evil just off-panel.

The tensions mount as Cindy seems to be surrounded by Devil worshippers in 'Black Tape' #3. More and more isolated and faced with mounting proof that her dead ex-boyfriend and rock god, it doesn't look good for our hero as the darkness, fear and vivid, violent visions crowd her in.

Cindy and the Hollywood Satanists clash in a grand finale that lets the tension spill over in the form of a very bloody horror show. Black Tape #4 thrills, chills and rocks! From Dan Panosian and Dalibor Talaji.

On first impressions 'Canary' #1 seems to be a murder mystery set against the backdrop of the Western genre. But, scratch the surface and something more sinister and supernatural is suggested. A rural horror but with cowboys, shoot-outs and gritty, gorgeous art from Scott Snyder and Dan Panosian.

Marshal Holt returns to a scene of a past triumph in 'Canary' #2. Even though he'd rather not. It's a quaint enough town, albeit with a tragic past, and one with an unsettling sinister tone that only Holt, and the reader, are aware of. From Scott Snyder and dan Panosian.

'Canary' #3 only goes to create more mystery around the events that has brought William Holt back to this eponymous town. Even now we are meeting new players with new ideas on the collapsed mine currently being investigated by Will and Doctor Edwards. Is it supernatural or scientific? Or a dangerous mix of both?

Scott Snyder and Dan Panosian's 'Canary' #4 builds on the tension of previous issues by injecting even more supernatural mystery of the supernatural persuasion into this Western tale. Cowboys and creepiness in equal measure, with an abandoned, yet grandiose house, full of secrets too! American Gothic has never looked so good.

'Canary' #5 really leans into the horror with a ghoulish looking creature running amok through the town. Scott Snyder and Dan Panosian are producing a gruesome Western-horror. A comic book that's one part spaghetti western and one part video nasty.

Saffron Chu steal the show in this fats moving issue. A heist, an investigation and one last family dinner. What ever could go wrong, seems to in this fun issue from writer John Layman and artist Dan Boultwood.

On the run and running out of luck. Saffron Chu must try and save her twin sister from ten sinister hitman, Mr Murder, while Tony Chu is called in to the aftermath. Dark, but funny, with a firebrand of a leading lady. You can't help but root for yet another bad apple of teh Chu family.

While Chu #5 is the concluding issue of this manic and mad funny book, with the news of further adventures starring Saffron Chu, this final issue does away with an explosive climax but does a great job of moving the story on. By the end of the book Saffron has learn a lot. Just none of it good, I imagine.

Saffron Chu returns as only Saffron Chu can in Chu #6 from John Layman and Dan Boultwood. A woman with an eye for the big prize is always going to get into trouble sooner or later, and this time its on the high seas. More black comedy and silliness at sea, with a somewhat startling ending!

Chu #7 by John Layman and Dan Boultwood is a great heist caper with plenty of surprises and all delivered up with the usual Layman brand humour. A great addition to Layman's Chuniverse.

saffron Chu has been transported back to 1808 France. And on the look out for a big score in another pacey and punchy issue of Chu from John Layman and Dan Boultwood.

'Chu' #9 gives us a good deal more backstory on Saffron Chu while also setting up a showdown in the making as Saffron makes plans. And drinks.

The heist of the century " the 19th century that is " comes to a dramatic conclusion in 'Chu' 10with a good few twists to the tale along the way. Saffron Chu knows what she wants and God help anyone who gets in her way. Smart, silly, and hopefully returning in 2022.

Detective Sam Dunes is an old shoe flavoured gumshoe in the mould of classic film noir P.I.s in a new school neo-noir world. And on the scent of a murder mystery.

Sam Dunes, our gumshoe of the future, is on the scent of the murderer of a person from his past. A person close to him. But, after a great first issue, this second one seems to be a formulaic, albeit futuristic, murder mystery with a long of crime-noir conventions and a good deal of 'Blade Runner' vibes running though it too.

Clear #3 brings us more of Sam Dunes tragic past and dangerous presents predicament too as he continues to try and solve a murder mystery that's not just personal but getting more and more complicated too. This issue gets back on track with new faces, plot development and ever0stunning art. From Scott Snyder and Francis Manapul.

Clear #4 is tense, tragic and thrilling. Sam Dunes is met with danger at every corner and with Sam on the run and the full force of the police he's quickly running out of options and friends.

'Clear' #5 shocks and surprises as Sam Dunes learns even more about the technologically addicted world he lives in. As he continues to seek the killer of his lost love, Kendra, the more he learns of the awful truth to the world.

'Compass' #1 is a face-paced, treasure hunting, medieval adventure that brings the world of early Islamism to the barbaric shores of Wales. Not the most exotic of locations, but certainly one that offers plenty of mystery and a great juxtaposition of cultures.

'Dark Crisis' #3 may be a book steeped in darkness as the heroes are suffering, but it doesn't mean there isn't the odd moment of hope. The Justice League is dead, Young Justice missing and Superman/Jon Kent's attempts at a recruitment drive failing, but not all is lost. Even though by the end of the issue it certainly feels the odds are staked against the good guys.

The midway point of DC Comics' latest crisis event and another action packed issue that swings from one dramatic scene to the next with great gusto. Although there is the odd quieter, contemplative scene too as we learn more about the effects of this multiverse wide crisis on the DCU.

Like so much of DC Comics recent big events, 'Dark Crisis on Infinite Earths' #7 is the latest to define the DCU. But, with so many event series' seemingly designed to do this again and again, it becomes very tiresome for the umpteenth time. Clichd and disappointing, but with faultless art from a raft of tope talent led by series' regular, Daniel Sampere. An artist who has really come into his own on this book.

Wonder Woman, Batman and Superman travel to worlds in crises only to find that not all is as it should be. While Batman struggles in a sea of emptiness, Wonder Woman has a heart-to-heart with Superboy Prime and Superman comes face-to-face with Darkseid. It's looking dark for our heroes in an issue that certainly feels like a midway point with its reliance of exposition and dialogue. But, a solid issue nonetheless made all that bit more brighter by Greg Capullo.

While The Batman Who Laughs makes his power play against Perpetua, Wonder Woman and company set out to do battle one more time for the past, present and future of the DCU. 'Dark Nights: Death Metal' #5 is the calm before the coming storm with a few surprises along the way.

'Dark Nights: Death Metal The Last 52: War of the Multiverses' #1 portrays the elongated prequel to the grand finale from the point of view of several very prominent superheroes and their evil counterparts. Some of the interludes work, will others don't. After so many tie-ins and showdowns this may well have been one tie-in too far for this jaded reader.

A group of female firefighter, and proven criminals, hatch a plan. A plan that seems to have ended badly, based on the evidence shared in the opening pages. In 'Dark Spaces: Wildfire' #1 we get to meet a crew of convicts ready to chance everything for one big score.

The heist is afoot, but have you ever known a heist to ever go smoothly? Ruby "Ma" Ning and her criminal crew may find that they're in too deep after this issue's startling revelation as the heat rises, literally and figuratively in Dark Spaces: Wildfire #2 from Scott Snyder, Hayden Sherman, Ronda Pattison and Andworld Design.

‘DC K.O.’ continues to surprise this jaded reader, with issue #2 continuing to thrill. A contemporary comic but with old-school vibes. Take one big bad, a handful of heroes and villains, and a scavenger hunt, and let ’em duke it out. A classic comic book crossover recipe cooked to perfection by Scott Snyder, Javi Fernández and Alejandro Sánchez.

We’re down to the last four competitors in ‘DC K.O’. #3, but there’s still plenty of fisticuffs on display. It’s another action-packed issue with great characterisations and dialogue.

As we head into the final round of the DC K.O. event, I’ll be glad when it’s all over. If you like wrestling, you’ll like this. I don’t, and I’ve seen one too many hero versus hero battles where they all end up on the same side to feel anything anymore when it predictably ends up happening in this penultimate issue.

College student, Penny, is not the first or last person to feel trapped in her small town existence looking after her sick father, but it does get her thinking. Thinking of her life and the world around her. And in a town where there isn't even the internet, she has to rely on a dusty old DVD vending machine for entertainment. But, what secrets does it really hold and why has no-one heard of any of the films it contains?

Deathstroke the Terminator joins forces with Black Canary and T.R.U.S.T. in a striking debut issue that mixed odd-couple relationship dynamics with surreal horror. An entertaining read with stunning art from cover to cover.

Deathstroke, Black Canary and the new Toyman take on Superman Cyborg and The Weird in a space adventure that's delivers a widescreen sci-fi blockbuster that's big in action and quick in pace.

Deathstroke finds himself adrift in a magical wonderland and hunting for Cheetah, while Black Canary can't help feeling there's something not quite trustworthy about T.R.U.S.T. in another dramatic and delightful issue of 'Deathstroke Inc.' from Joshua Williamson and Howard Porter.

'Deathstroke Inc.' #4 brings a gothic sensibility to this action-packed, revelatory issue as we learn more about the untrustworthy T.R.U.S.T. and learn who would win in a fight between Black Canary and Deathstroke.

Deathstroke certainly rises from the proverbial ashes in Deathstroke Inc. #5, and that's not the only surprise. The council that make up T.R.U.S.T. are revealed and Slade Wilson makes his move in another pulse-pounding issue.

'Deathstroke Inc.' #6 is something of a departure in tone and storytelling as Slade Wilson becomes leader of the Secret Society of Super Villains after killing the all-new, and now dead, Libra last issue. After a strong start has this series lost its way so soon, I wonder?

Slade Wilson reunites with his daughter, Ravager, and Respawn in 'Deathstroke Inc.' #7 but it's not your regular family reunion. Not when you're the self-proclaimed king of super villains. This series continues to change course, but with Joshua Williamson still at the helm, I have faith in this book continuing to deliver on quality, just like this new issue.

Part three of the current Batman related crossover plays out in 'Deathstroke Inc.' #11. But, it doesn't really add anything to the story, or to the series so far. If anything, it's another step in the wrong direction for a comic book series that, originally, seemed to be a highly original series. Now, it's beginning to feel like another mediocre mainstream comic book title.

Meticulously researched and realised by writer Harold Schechterand artistEric Powell, 'Did You Hear What Eddie Gein Did?' is a gritty, engrossing graphic novel depicting the life and crimes of Ed Gein. The darker side of Americana laid bare, but never dwelling on the gory or ghoulish.

One part 'American Graffiti' and another part 'Mad Max', 'Duck And Cover' #1 is a thrilling, genre-blending adventure that does away with the rosy glow of nostalgia to depict a darker, more divided America as it really was, but with the added danger of a bleak, world-threatening apocalypse.

Ollie Leif is the new kid in town and has to make his way through the first day at a new school in a new neighbourhood. Kaare Andrews does an exceptional job in 'E-Ratic' #1 of setting out and establishing the various characters and relationships as well as sign posting future problems coming Ollie's way too. All delivered with humour and great art.

An all-silent issue is a bold move to take when you're only two issue into a 5-issue mini-series, But, Kaare Andrews more than makes it work. A emotionally charged sophomore issue that places the art front and centre as we follow our young hero through a day in his life.

E-Ratic has been kidnapped and only his friend and high school crush, Kirsten, knows. But she ain't telling as her day goes from bad to worse. Kaare Andrews takes well worn ten superhero sub-genre and brings a whole new set of beats to play. The Amazing Spider-Man remixed with a fast paced b.p.m. to match.

Kaare Andrews' E-Ratic comes to an end with this issue, but I do hope we haven't seen the last of this energetic, youthful and humorous comic book that takes tried and tested conventions and puts a contemporary twist on it for a whole new readership. Spider-Man for Generation Z

'Edgar Allan Poe's Snifter of Death' #1 delivers two comedic and creepy stories setting a high bar for the series with the return of 'The Monster Serials' an a daft recount of Edgar Allan Poe's childhood. It all makes for a very enjoyable debut issue for this third volume from AHOY Comics

The god-like Eternals walk among us once again. But not without their fair share of new troubles. There's the reawakening of the mischievous and mysterious Eternal, Sprite, as well as the murder of their leader, Zuras. Quite the first day back in business for our hero Ikaras. Gillen, Ribi and Wilson deliver a comic book that's epic in scale and ambition.

Ikaris versus Thanos in a battle through time and space. Kieron Gillen provide the high quality words while Esab Ribic and Matt Wilson provide the grandiose visuals that do more than reverb with a more ancient, mythological time. Another grandiose issue that only elevates a set of characters who have not always had it so good.

Family is important. That is definitely the big takeaway of 'Fantastic Four'#24 in this fun-filled new issue. Iceman comes a knocking and that leads to hot-head Johnny Storm taking umbrage, leading to the telling of an untold tale in the FF's history. A tale illustrated by Paco Medina and adopting just the right amount of Jack Kirby influence. All in all, a faultless book and one of the best in Dan Slott's run so far. Highly recommended.

In 'Fantastic Four'#25 by Dan Slott and R B Silva we get a status-changing issue that wonderfully sets up adventures for future issues. There is loss, there are secrets revealed and there is the return of Doctor Doom too. A family-centric issue that has more than its fair share of dynamic drama and family operatics. A great issue all round and a worthy jump-on pint if you aren't yet reading this titanic title! Excelsior!

'Fantastic Four' #26 may be an issue of catch-ups and talking heads, but Dan Slott's snappy banter, quick pace carried to R B Silva's art will have you entertained and enthralled nonetheless. An issue that sees the return of more than one familiar face, but not all are welcome returns. There's trouble ahead for at least one meter if the FF.

The Fantastic Four face their one deaths in this concluding chapter to the latest cosmic-fulled adventure of Marvel's first family. Dan Slott sows the seed for future storylines while also including a familiar steak of fun into proceedings too. With out-of-this work art and colours by R.B Silva and Jesus Arbutov.

Fantastic Four #31 is another family focussed one-off issue full of the kind of family drama and dilemmas many of us can relate to. The First Family of the 616 at their best.

The cover may announce the Bride of Doom, but this is all Johnny Storm's issue. But, not in any good way for him. Great dialogue, great art, and great twists too. From start to finish. A promising start to a storyline celebrating Marvel's First Family's 60th anniversary!

The wedding day of Victor Von Doom is here. And oh boy is it a doozy! If you have ever liked Marvel's first family, you' really need to pick up 'Fantastic Four '#33. An absolute barnstormer of an issue!

The wedding of Doctor Doom has been well and truly ruined. And someone has to pay! No guessing who in Fantastic Four #34 BY Dan Slott and R.B. Silva

It's Halloween on Yancy Street and Jo-Venn and N'Kalla want to enjoy it as much as they can. Too much maybe? But being admonished by their adopted parents, Ben and Alicia, is the least of their troubles in Fantastic Four #37 by Dan Slott and Nico Leon.

The Fantastic Four tackle a very different challenge in their latest adventure. The childcare arrangement of The Wizard's clone-child, Bentley-23. Luckily they have the She-Hulk fighting their corner, but will this be a case she cannot win? It certainly looks like it from where I'm standing in this witty and intelligent courtroom comedy-drama.

Fantastic Four #39 is a great courtroom drama from start to finish. Slott knows the tropes of this genre very well from his time on 'She-Hulk' but he can still find new ways of surprising the readers. A high-stakes issue with Slott's wry wit making an appearance from time to time to deflate the melodrama and remind us of the joy comics can be. Even when fighting over the custody of a kid!

A fast-paced energetic issue heralding in the Reckoning War. Alongside Reed Richards and the rest of the Fantastic Four we have a supporting hand from the Avengers, Nick Fury and the Silver Surfer. A blockbuster event spanning the Marvel universe, with all at stake. As ever.

'Fantastic Four' #42 is another rollercoaster ride of a comic with the FF getting some much needed help in this Reckoning War from all quarters. Reed plays a mean trick on one of his oldest friends - and the reader - which only adds to the drama of this issue. Great art, great story and a great issue overall.

The Reckoning War continues to consume the Marvel cosmos with multiple characters doing their best to hold on. 'Fantastic Four' is a pacey, punchy issue that ramps up the action and the stakes.

'Fantastic Four' #45 brings the curtain down on the latest wide-reaching cosmic saga Marvel's first family have found themselves involved with. And in doing so Slott sets a new status quo for some familiar faces while still leaving lots of the next creative team to play with. A very satisfying ending to a story decades in the making.

'Fantastic Four' #46 marks the end of Dan Slott's time on the FF. And, as a reminder, we are given an issue that not clears the decks, but also acts as a walk down memory lane and some of the concepts and characters Slott has introduced. An issue that resets the status quo rather than delivers anything more dramatic, but then we've had plenty of that with the recent Reckoning War saga.

The Fantastic Four Anniversary Tribute may well be a shot-by-shot remake of two of Stan and Jack's all-time classic comics, but with a modern eye, and modern techniques applied, the whole affair is less redundant that you'd think. A worthy tribute for comic book fans but also a strange curio for the causal reader too.

'Fantastic Four: Full Circle' sees the team journey into the Negative Zone and enter a realm of cosmic proportions. Storyteller and artist Alex Ross stuns with a story that evokes classic FF, as told by Stan Lee and Jack Kirby, as well as integrates elements of old school comic colouring and Pop Art too. A cosmic odyssey through some of the Fantastic Four's greatest moments, this one is not to miss!

A new take on an old favourite as Mark Russell and Sean Isaake blends real world events with the marvellous and iconic family saga of Marvel's First Family in 'Fantastic Four: Life Stories' #1. A respectful trip down memory lane with a few new twists on a familiar story. Excelsior!

Mark Russell and Sean Izzake's deliver another entertaining and melodramatic revision of the Fantastic Four in this continuity-free real-time take on Marvel's First Family. There are the familiar themes of social injustice we've come to love from Russell's writing (well, I have anyway) mixed in with superhero soap opera and a drastic change in the status quo of the Fantastic Four too.

We hit the '80s with Fantastic Four: Life Story #3 and Reed Richards is once more trying to sell the coming of Galactus to the US government. Full of era-appropriate fashion, we get the return of another infamous FF villain as well as parallels with our own history too in another engrossing issue.

'Fantastic Four Life Story' #4 covers the nineties in rather upbeat fashion. Well, that is until the Silver Surfer makes an appearance. And where the Silver Surfer goes, so too does Galactus.

'Fantastic Four: Life Story' #5 finally gives us the Fantastic Four's dramatic, epic conflict with Galactus in another outstanding issue. A series that takes the best of the Fantastic Four's legacy and remixes it to bring a fresh new perspective to bear upon comidom's favourite family and their exploits. This one is both heart-warming and heart-breaking in equal measures.

Fantastic Four: Life Story; #6 gives us a fitting ending to a series that has presented a Fantastic Four team that, while true to the original, has not always been the harmonious tight unite we know and love. Reed and Sue separated, Johnny Storm dead and now Doctor Doom rears his ugly metal head. A grand finale and an ending that is satisfying rather than over-sentimental.

Titan Comics' 'Conan The Barbarian' FCBD offering is a masterpiece in the making, judging from this issue alone. A promising primer that is both honourably homaging the past greats who have worked on Conan in comics, while forging a new path too. An issue full of passionate prose and awesome art, and one most definitley worth adding to your pull list.

Ten of the toughest women in the galaxy compete for the chance to become Queen of the Galaxy in a comic book that's heavy on amazing art, but light on plot.

'Flashpoint Beyond' #0 returns us to the world of 2011's Flashpoint as if we had never left it. And only Thomas Wayne knows that this alternative timeline should not exist. But it does, and with plenty of mystery to uncover too. It's a plodding start to the latest DC Comics' event series, but this over-sized first issue does mean we get a lot more art by Eduardo Risso and Trish Mulville than a regular length issue. And that's more than enough for this comic book fan.

'Flashpoint Beyond' #1 revisits the Amazon and Atlantean war, but is it actually creating anything new in the process of revisiting past glories?

Batman takes a break from hunting the Clockwork Killer in 'Flashpoint Beyond' #3 as he takes a trip to this alternative timeline's Fortress of Solitude, The Oasis. But with the backstory of Superman's origin being a big focus of this issue, the scale of the story the creators of this series want to tell has grown again. A comic book that doesn't waste a single paper or page and still keeps readers guessing.

Given 'Flashpoint Beyond' as a series leans into its murder mystery/police procedural tropes then fans of such stories will enjoy this fourth issue. But, as a superhero series, this is the one with the least amount of action. The art work saves the day, but its a quick read with just two events filling out the issue and juxtaposed by the writers Geoff Johns, Tim Sherridan and Jeremy Adams in an attempt to create tension, which kinda works.

Catwoman takes on a train heist with some differences. Set in a future Gotham City even grimmer than the presents day one, 'Future State: Catwoman' #1 is a rollicky good, fast-paced, high-octane thrill ride with more surprises than not.

Future State: Justice League #1 has some great fun with the readers with its turn-paging revelations that make this new title such a riveting read. If the story doesn't grip you, the art most definitely will. Add to that a contrastingly dark story involving the Justice League Dark and you have another amazing new edition to the DCU.

Luthor cons a whole planet into believing he is their saviour and now he wants in on the United Planets. But, Lois Lane isn't convinced he wants in on the council for the right reasons. Superman confronts Luthor, as he has done so many time before, but this time with a statical streak running though the whole plot that will have you smile at Luthor's pomposity and pimp-inspired wardrobe.

Future State: Superman Vs. Imperious Rex #2 is a fun and furious issue that sees Luthor regret his hasty decision to join the United Planets. And try and renege on the deal as only Luthor can.

When two suns appear over Metropolis, Superman investigates. An investigation that set him team-up with Brazil's Wonder Woman in a world's finest adventure from Dan Watters, Leila Del Lucia and DC Comics

Ram V and Mike Perkins deliver in spades in this moody and memorable debut issue of 'Future State: Swamp Thing' #1. While Ram V delivers an emotive and elegant script, Perkins provides the dark, detailed artwork that makes this one of the stand-out titles for me in the whole Future State slate of books. Homaging the past, while forging a new future for comicdom's favourite muck monster.

Swamp Thing faces an old enemy for the future of humanity. Sacrifices are made but a new hope emerges and grows at the far ends of time in the DCU.

A wonderfully fun book with great characters, great artwork and great dialogue. Whatever you thought this book would be, it isn't. Yara Flor, the newest Wonder Woman, protects the Amazonian Rainforests with a little help from the other mythical and mystical creatures of the forest. But, a trip to Hades was never going to be a smooth ride, was it?

Martin Bland was once the front man of a Brit-Pop band, Geezer. But now… who knows? What you will learn though, from 'Geezer' #1 by Will Potter and Philip Bond, is a man and a band that were at all the right parties, but never with the right moves. A hugely enjoyable romp through the '90s brought to you by a creative team who had ringside seats a lot of the time.

Generations Forged #1 is a disappointing second half to what would have been if Dan Didio hadn't been shown the exit at DC Comics. Whatever they did salvage has been hastily slapped together and put out for schmucks like me to grab with my hard earned money.

Another threat targets the DCU, but even if you may be feeling "Crisis' fatigue by now, no true DC Comics fan will want to miss this spectacular star-studded issue. A team is forged from across time and space to take on a long-forgotten threat.

'Giga' #1 gives us a brave, albeit broken down, future world in which giant sized mechas battled it out for centuries. As a result, the world they leave behind is shattered and stagnating. With more than one mystery to be solved, this first issue was a delight to read and introduces and establishes the characters and the society effortlessly and entertainingly.

Hal Jordan travel back home only to find he's on the matriarchal Earth 11 and witness to a wedding proposal that will have your head spinning. But, with Liam Sharp on art duties, once again this title rises to the top of the pile. A true classic of the medium in the making and the penultimate issue of this epic run.

Another confusing issue with a lot to tie-up on the narrative front. Only saved by the outstanding, career-best art from Liam Sharp.

Sci-fi, lord and sorcery and one last jaw-dropping reveal too. The Green Lantern Season Two #11 delivers outstanding artwork and a great sci-fi caper that spans the sands of time, It's be missed when it's gone, that's for sure.

Lupe is a teenage girl fearlessly wandering the an Earth ravaged by Lovecraftian nightmares. But, why is she wandering around without a care in the world? That's a question shared by more than just the reader in this horror/romance hybrid beautifully realised by artist Victor Ibez from a script by Dennis Hopeless.

'Heart Eyes' #3 introduces a mysterious new character, a watcher who seems to have healthy doubts about the monster-loving Lupe having observes her for quite some time. More mystery and more Lovecraftian horror from Dennis Hopeless and Victor Ibez.

Blade funds himself on a world he hardly recognises. A work in which the Avengers were never formed thereby creating an alternate timeline full of colourful, creative hybrid heroes. And villains. A fun first issue that leans heavily on showcasing this brave new world, with plot points included for later development. A soldi first issue with exceptional art and dialogue from Jason Aaron and Ed McGuinness

Another issue of 'Heroes Reborn' that relegates the main story to the indignity of a back-up strip. Who's idea was this, because it doesn't fly with this reader?

Doctor Spectrum battles across the galaxy in the name of America in another issue that seems more like a one-shot than a sequential and dynamic cohesive story of any real substance. But with James Stokoe on art duties, it's more than enough to save another thin-on-plot comic book.

Batman, Arkham Asylum and Commissioner Gordon are all ripped-off in this uneventful event series from Marvel Comics. Why DC Comics have yet to send a 'Cease and Desist' order is beyond me, but they should.

'Heroes Reborn' #6 and it's the turn of Princess Power to grab the spotlight. And it's the best issue by far. Although that's not too easy given how poor this overall event has been. But, nonetheless, it delivered great art and a great script and made me want more from this Wonder Woman knock-off.

Heroes Reborn ned as it started, with very little to blast about. A simple concept - Mephisto recreates a world without the Avengers - strung out over seven uneventful issues. Minus any satisfying conclusion. I really wished I hadn't bothered.

'Heroes Return' #1 is an amazing book visually, but another wasted opportunity giving us a very predictable dust-up between The Supreme Squadron of America and the Avengers. Well, some of them anyway. A series that seems deigned to set up the next big title-wide crossover for Marvel which I'll be giving a miss based on this slim storyline stretched out to breaking point. Whatever the opposite of "Excelsior" is, this is that series.

A new kind of haunted house horror from Dan Watters and Caspar Wijngaard that oozes style and strong storytelling. A 90s' neon-horror that's first issue is a strong opener for this ongoing Image Comics' series.

'Home Sick Pilots' #2 picks up the action from last issue as Ami tries to recover a cursed horseshoe while her fellow bandmates are left abandoned after their brush with death last issue.

A new set of black ops characters can only spell trouble for Ami and the old James House. Although the haunted house in question is certainly giving Ami enough trouble of its own as she discovers their relationship is not an equal one in Home Sick Pilots #4 from Dan Watters and Caspar Wijngaard.

'Home Sick Pilots'#5 brings thecurtain down on thefirst story-arc from Dan Watters and Caspar Wijngaard. Ami must confront the Old James House while her fellow bandmates help out in any way they can in a grand finale of epic proportions. The Home Sick Pilots' lives will never be the same again after this one!

Home Sick Pilots #6 moves the action to the Nevada desert and we catch up with the remaining survivors as they embrace on a new chapter of their lives. A chapter they never asked for in the genre-breaking series that's only juts getting started. A welcome return!

Ami and Buzz are alive, but not all that well. After all, Ami now shares an unbreakable link with the haunted old James House stalking her across America.

Ami and Buzz try to keep their heads down in Seattle while Meg grows in her powers. It's all heading for one Hell of a large stand-off one way or the other.

The Nuclear Bastard is coming for Ami in 'Home Sick Pilots' #10, and there's nothing she can do but face it down. A blockbusting, bombastic season finale from DAn Watters and Caspar Wijngaard.

You scream, I scream, we all scream for ice cream. And nowhere more so than in Hell. But, a quest for ice cream leads to something our young cast of characters big not plan for and while one sees it as a great new opportunity, the others, and the readers, will see this being nothing but trouble. And who needs more trouble when you already find yourself in Hell? 'In Hell We Fight' #1 is a devilishly dark humoured new series from John Layman and Jok.

'In Search of Gil Scott-Heron' is a powerful, personal take on the life of a man, musician and trailblazer through the eyes of a young filmmaker who's search for his idol goes unrewarded. Scott-Heron's legacy is undisputed, but here in this book we get to know how much he meant to one fan in particular. His story being that of many Scott-Heron fans, I imagine. A stirring tribute to one of the founders of modern music by Thomas Mauceri, and Seb Piquet.

DC Comics' big summer event kicks off in style with 'Infinite Frontiers' #1 from Joshua Williamson, Xermanico, and Fajardo Jr. We get the return of Thomas Wayne - another Batman who never stays down for long - as well as the Golden Age Green Lantern, Roy Harper and many more, as well as a murder mystery for the Justice League Incarnate to investigate.

The multiverse is not what anyone thinks it is with new mysteries and new questions being posed. A diverse set of heroes work separately - for now - to have their questions answered in a likeable second issue. Or is it third issue?

'Infinite Frontier' #3 continues to explore the multiverse and in doing so re-introduce a lot of JSA associated characters too. Some who have been MIA for quite some time. Great writing, but the art does not come across as the type usually associated with such big summer evens to me.

Infinite Frontier #4 begins to draw the various plots together as we get the return of Infinity Inc. as well as the debut of Justice Incarnate's biggest threat.

Infinite Frontier #5 delivers on action and ramps up the danger to the multiverse considerably by the end of this highly enjoyable issue. One for old-school DC Comics' fans that's for sure, but plenty for any comic book fan to enjoy too.

Infinite Frontier #6 brings the latest universe shattering event series by DC Comics to an end with both threats and promises of things to come. A climatic battle is blunted somewhat by a plethora of epilogues, only for the dying pages of this book to pull me back in again.

'Jinny Hex Special' #1 is a fun ride from start to finish. We get to learn more about this new edition to the DCU while writer Magdalena Vissagioand artistGleb Melnikov also do well in setting up all the key pieces of Jinny's backstory should we ever get a follow on series. A reminder of the innocent, fun titles we've seen coming out of Wonder Comics and a hope this imprint has the strength to hold on in there based on the strength of this one-shot.

It's another ride round the multiverse with 'Justice League Incarnate' #1, and one that lands on a marvellously familiar world.

Our heroes are scattered across the multiverse, allowing fans more opportunities to visit further parts of the DC multiverse in the process. Another solid issue with more inspiring artistic choices too.

After a strong start, 'Justice League Incarnate' #4 marks a decline in this five-issue series. It's another DC comic book series that relies too much on Darkseid who I feel is becoming too overused across the DCU whenever a crisis of this magnitude occurs.

Kaiju Score #1 is a paint-by-the-numbers debut issue that mixes genres in an attempt at originality. Great art, but a predictable opening issue doesn't do this new series any favours.

Guillem March may well be know outside of Europe for his work on Batman, but wait until you get a load of 'Karmen' Part 1 from Image Comics. A truly masterful art book posing as a comic book from a talent who mixes the details of Moebius with the sensuality of Milo Manara.

King of Spies #1 is the story of a James Bond inspired character, if he were allowed to grow old and retire. But, it is so much more than this as Mark Millar and Matteo Scalera gives us a man who begins to question his past and the actions he took out of duty to Queen and country. A man who does more than question his role in Britain's place in the world, and how it got there. And a man willing to do something about it too. A brilliant addition to the spy-thriller genre, but with a somewhat left-leaning take on it as our hero, Roland King, really has no time to die.

Roland King wastes no time getting through his list of the British establishment's worst and most wicked. And with that amount of heat, King has not gone unnoticed. A fast paced, action-fuelled second issue that gives us a further uncomfortable look into King's past and explains a lot about the current state of his relationship with the family he ignored.

Roland King continues to takes on the worst of the worst. The elite of society, the seemingly untouchable. And, because these villains echo our own real life monsters, you cannot help but cheer him on in his pursuit of revenge and retribution. But, is time finally up for our king of spies?

It's the endgame for Roland King as he plans one last hit. 'King of Spies' #4 delivers the kind of big-ass blockbuster blowouts we all associated with James Bond, or any number of similar espionage-themes films, but it also has emotional depth too. A chance to make things right and make up for past mistakes? Maybe.

AWA Upshot's 'Knighted' #1 tries to do what many other comic book series have done countless times before, satirise the superhero genre. But in this occasion what started off well enough soon ran out of steam and originality.

Laura #1 by Guillem March and Ablaze Comics is a beautifully languid story of unrequited love many readers will identify with. The story of one young woman making her way in the thorny and oft-times painful world of young love.

'Locke & Key/The Sandman: Hell & Gone' #1 brings two much-loved comic book universes together in a crossover you never knew you wanted. Lifting a plot point going way, way back to 'The Sandman' #1, Joe Hill and Gabriel Rodrguez deliver a first issue that's beautifully surreal and macabre and drags you in by the neck.

The concluding issue to this bonkers book goes out in the same madcap style it launched. Gillen and the gang are clearly having fun at Otto Von Subertan expense, as well as the readers expectations too. The good Baron faces his accusers and faces boredom and mundanity face-to-face. Will he and the other Luodcrats survive this brush with mediocracy?

Frank may be out for the count and zombified in this second issue of this Marvel Knights series, but that only allows the other characters to shine, even if they’re all, for the most part, a wretched hive of scum and villainy. Nonetheless, a tense, taut issue with plenty to enjoy for all the Frank Castle fans out there.

‘Marvel Knights: The Punisher’ #3 sees Frank Castle go cold turkey. The results are both psychological and physically intense, as this one-man army crimefighter swaps one trigger-happy boss with another.

Sweet Paprika mixes up elements of classic Hollywood rom-coms with a good, healthy dose of sexiness and sensuality in a comical debut of a New York inhabited by both Devils and Angels. But, who'd have though the devilish Paprika would be so devout when it comes to her sex life? A raunchy read from start to finish.

Sweet Paprika continues to be unlucky in love as she continues to commit to her career at the cost of a love life. Worse still, she has to juggle the pressures of work with a family crisis too! Can her day get any worse? Well, yes, it can.

AHOY Comics' 'My Bad' #1 introduces a brave new world of daft new superheroes and an even dafter supervillain. A Silver Age parody written out of love and a deep understanding of the genre, its tropes and its conventions.

Writer Doug Wagner and artist Daniel Hillyard are back in the Plastic-verse once again with their latest killer serial, ‘Narco’, from Image Comics. But this time, they’re focusing on a fan of these murderers and a narcoleptic, too. And it’s not too long until this particualr medical condition gets Marcus into trouble in this gripping, Hitchock-inspired new series.

Up until now, Nemesis has thrived in his Machiavellian machinations. But can he keep it up without making even the slightest mistake? ‘Nemesis Forever’ #3 pushes the cocky and overconfident master criminal to the limit.

‘Nemesis Forever’ #4 presents a criminal mastermind who isn’t as formidable as he thought he was. And that leaves me thinking, can he be stopped? It all adds up to an intriguing penultimate issue that sets up a grand finale that’s unpredictable.

Nemesis Forever #5 delivers and delivers BIG! A bombastic, blockbuster finale with a trademark Mark Millar twist you won’t see coming.

Nemesis is back with a bang. Hitting the floor running, the baddest of the bad doesn't waste any time doing what he does best. And that is executing a city-wide criminal caper. In this case executing a cunning plan that will leave the City of Angels piled high with bodies and its storm drains flowing with blood. And, I dare say, more stomach-churning twists and turns too.

Fast paced and furiously funny, 'Nemesis: Reloaded' #2 ramps up the tension in L.A while turning back the clock to reveal our arch-villain's secret and seedy origins. Batman breaking bad by Mark Millar and Jorge Jimnez.

'Nemesis: Reloaded' #3 finally reveals more about Nemesis' end goal and showcases his criminal genius. A genius that will trample on anyone - innocent or otherwise, but mostly innocent - to get his twisted revenge on anyone linked to his parents' death.

'Nemesis: Reloaded' #4 delivers more deaths, more violence and more mystery as our master criminal continues to pursue a plan that will lead to the death of the Mayor and many, many others. We also get a surprise new plot point that would suggest a bigger problem is on the horizon.

'Nemesis: Reloaded' #5 sees our arch villain and eponymous asshole of the series settle scores in his indubitable way and offer up a character who is someone readers will, surprisingly, be able to empathise with a little bit more after reading this finale. High stakes, high drama, and a dramatic denouement too. From Mark Millar and Jorge Jimnez.

Mark Millar and Juanan Ramez's 'Night Club' #1 has a lot to sink your teeth into. While, as the evidence of most of the first issue suggests, it seems to be offering up yet another tale of vampires in the modern world, our hero and newly-turned vampire, Danny Garcia, has other plans. A fun, thrilling, blood-spilling debut issue with plenty of bite and promise. And just $1.99 an issue!

'Night Club' #2 is a fast-moving, brash and beautiful comic book that honours the laws of vampirism while also revealing in the bright-coloured boldness of superhero comics. The end result is something akin to Romita -era Spider-Man, if he'd been bitten by a radioactive bat in terms of style, substance and script. Vampires have never had so much fun!

While Danny and his friends continue to balance their new found social ilife with their desire to become superheroes and social media stars in 'Night Club' #3, we also get to see what they can't. The coming threat to their seemingly sorted lives, as more than hinted at on the front cover. But, that isn't even the half of it. As they will soon discover.

While much of this series has been unadulterated coming-of-age superheroic fun, 'Night Club' #4 begins to shift the tone of the story away from the world of four-coloured comics and into the realms of vampire horror. Our heroes have saved the day, but can they save their secret identities in another frenetic instalment?

While much of this series has revelled in its super hero credentials 'Night Club' #5 takes on a more gothic and gory tone in this revelatory and shocking with our heroes mots definitely down and… well, maybe not out yet. But, it's certainly not looking good for them in this killer of an issue.

A fan hunts down a director of a forbidden film with a mysterious providence. What secrets lie with the surviving reels of film may be more than either can live with in a tense first issue from Scott Snyder and Francesco Francavilla.

'Night Of The Ghoul' #2 is a horror comic that drips with gothic atmosphere and chills. A cursed film, a damaged director and a hellish hospital all add up to one terrifying tale.

'Night of the Ghoul' #3 continues to capture the horror of classic Silver screen creature features with more tension being ramped up with this recent issue and the introduction of the creepy Dr Skeen.

'Night of the Ghoul' #4 continues to lay on the chills and shocking thrills as we journey between the present and the fictional past of the cursed film that kickstarted this whole tale of terror. And, on both film and off, the perils are piling up.

'Night of the Ghoul' #6 delivers a suitably terrifying and pacey conclusion to this macabre miniseries from Scott Snyder and Francesco Francavilla

America has been plunged into a debilitating and terror-transforming darkness. A darkness that the survivors of this sudden globe spanning disaster have had to adapt. Like Undiscovered Country, Nocterra seems to be another dystopian road trip across America, but in the dark. Only time will tell if it's too close for comfort, but it's still a promising debut issue nonetheless.

Val Riggs and her passengers take a pit stop, but danger is never too far off in this nightmare world.

Nocterra #3 sees our would-be post-apocalyptic hero, Val, on the road and finding trouble round every corner. But, is it becoming to draw out and formulaic before it even gets a chance to rev up the story?

A creepy opening and another stop off for Val and her crew on their way to finding Sanctuary. This issue feels like a turning point in this road trip through an apocalyptic landscape and one that offers the slightest glimmer of hope.

Val, Emory and Bailey seemed to have finally found sanctuary as well as Bailey's uncle. What could possibly go wrong?

'Nocterra' #7 launches an all-new story-arc and it's one Hell of a ride, Literally and figuratively. Val Riggs is back behind the wheel and looking for trouble. Along for the ride is new narrator, Bailey McCray aka Piper, and a whole cast of diverse truckers, each with their own sartorial style. 'Mad Max' meets 'Convoy' and awhile lot more.

'Nocterra' #8 brings with it one heck of a surprise ending. But, before that the reader will witness Black Top Bill causing violent mayhem as well as discover a very inconvenient truth that turns his world upside down.

Val, Piper and their crew take onboard Blacktop Bill in 'Nocterra' #9 and immediately creates a far more fractious tone to the book. It may be a book reliant on a good deal of exposition, but now with Blacktop Bill trolling our courageous convoy, there's guaranteed never to be a dull moment, that's for sure.

'Nocterra' #10 is an issue that moves the characters into place and sets up them up for a rather violent looking finale. An issue that gives Blacktop Bill all the best lines as Scott Snyder dares you to like him. And, for me at least, it's working. An entertaining and tantalising issue whetting the appetite for next issue's grand finale.

In a world where technology has overtaken human endeavours it would seem the robots running the lives of the living can get away with murder, Literally! Mark Russell and Mike Deodato Jr. deliver another darkly humoured issue of sci-fi satire at its finest.

'Not All Robots' #3 is both satire and suburban horror as we witness the obsoletion of human society in favour of robot servants. A story seen through the lens of one ordinary family who, like the wider society, are blindly walking towards their own extinction, even if they don't even know it.

Mark Russell and Mike Deodato Jr. continue to deliver a well observed satire targeting our growing reliance of technology in all corners of our lives. But now, with this penultimate issue, there is a creeping horror and darker tone emerging in this series.

Grendel's mother is out for revenge in 'Once and Future' #12 and only Duncan stands in her way. Meanwhile, Merlin continues to scheme and set players into motion in each of the Holy Grail. A fitting end to this chapter of Kieron Gillen and Dan Mora's fantasy saga.

'Once & Future' #13 kicks off an all-new storyline with the resurrection of yet another legendary menace with ties to the Arthurian legend. Kieron Gillen eases us into this new chapter with a family reunion and a new quest. Find Elaine, Bridgette's estranged daughter! But, this is an issue that builds up the tension even before the final page reveal. A great start to the latest new chapter in this sensational saga.

The Green Knight throws down a challenge and Rose steps up to accept. As legends of yore spill out into our reality, Bridgette, Rose and Duncan continue to defend the realm. But, how much can they take on? And, how long until there comes a reckoning? Another gripping issue from Kieron Gillen, Dan Mora, Tamra Bonvillain and Ed Dukeshire.

Mary confronts Rose in her own home, while Duncan and Bridgette go hunting for Mary!?! Once & Future #15 also gives us our very own radical retake on Lancelot du Lac and a frightening family secret revealed that will have you rethinking Mary, our would-be antagonist. Tense, taut, terrific.

While Duncan and Bridgette face down Lancelot du Lac, Rose has here hands full when stooges of the UK government come a knocking. Seems Mary and her family may have gone bit too far this time in 'Once & Future' #16

Once & Future #17 delivers another issue of horror and fantasy as Bridgette and her monster hunters track down Mary in the Otherworld. Merlin tries to control the narrative, but cfor how much longer when there are so many variables coming into play?

With the current story-arc coming to a close with 'Once and Future' #18 the thrills don't come from the final battle itself but from what's being set up next. A truly new dawn for Great Britain, but one that certainly isn't trumpeting in a new Golden Age for the UK that's for sure. Riveting stuff and a great way to keep readers on the edge of their seats until its return this summer.

With Britain now part of the supernatural Otherworld it looks grim for Bridgette, Duncan and Rose in 'Once and Future' #19. King Arthur are on the rise, and mean business as he cuts fast and lose through England.

King Arthur more than meets his match while Bridgette makes plans in the relative safety of the Grail Castle. Plus Rose finally heads out to look for her parents in Once and Future #20.

'Once & Future' #22 ramps up the action even more while offering up a number of differently emotionally charged scenes too. An issue that divides its attention amongst a number of different characters while still expanding on the narrative and the mythos Kieron Gillen and Dan Mora are building.

Mary McGuire has her sights set on her own mother while other characters play their part in the unfolding story. Some more knowingly than others. 'Once and Future' #23 is another magical and macabre issue with a good deal of intelligent twists.

Once and Future #25 goes bigger, bolder and brasher as the might of three kings make war across the magically transformed landscape of Britain. As well as this omnipresent threat we get a Robin Hood recast as a magical republican with his Merry Men made up of faerie folk. And, thankfully, on the side of good. But, will they be enough to battle on three fronts? The beginning of the end starts with this oversized, entertaining and thrilling issue.

As artist Dan Mora showcased in Klaus the comic I first cane across his magnificent and magical art he has nothing to prove as not only one of the best fantasy artists in comics, but one of the best comic book artists working today.

'Once and Future' #28 by Kieron Gillen, Dan Mora, Tamra Bonvillain and Ed Dukeshire gives Mary a leading role as she takes control of her own narrative while making use of a previous identity to bring about the endgame of this enthralling fantasy/horror series. What starts off as a quiet, ethereal scene on the banks of a misty, magical lake ends in drama and shocking bloodshed. and more besides.

The penultimate issue of this fantasy horror and there is still all to play for as the demonic Merlin plays his hand and throws everything he's got at Bridgette, Duncan and all those who stand on the side of good. 'Once & Future' #29 will surprise you and shock you in equal measure as we get one last big twist from Kieron Gillen, Dan Mora, Tamra Bonvillian and Ed Dukeshire.

'Once & Future' #30 brings this most recent Arthurian based series to a close. And in doing so offers up both big moments of action and personal drama. A bitter-sweet story, but with more happy endings than not.

Even heroes have to pay the bills. And that's why some of them need to lower their expectations and work for Heroes4U. But below the satire in One Star Squadron #1 is a story that's more real world than many superhero comics. One part Office Space and another part your regular DC Comics.

'One-Star Squadron' #2 continues to present the more desperate side to suer-heroism in the DCU. When you're a washed up hero some, like Minute Man, have to ply their trade through agencies like Heroez 4 U. As well as the usual satirical swipes - but this time set in a workplace environment - there is more than a touch of tragedy to Minute Man's story.

Devin Fulcher is a man who's just learnt a terrible truth. So, a trip to a local furry convention with his furry-loving may, just may, keep his mind off his situation. But, what he witness there is rather dark and disturbing. But, it only gets worse for Devin. Much worse. A dark, disturbing and over-the-top black comedy from the Doug Wagner and Daniel Hillyard, the guys that brought you 'Plastic' and 'Vinyl'.

'Plush' #2 sees our down-and-out central chump of a character rescued from the crooked cops. But, he may well wish he hadn't been when you see who's doing the rescuing. More dark, delightful comedy all wrapped up in multi-coloured, fuzzy, frightening fur.

'Plush' #3 sees our hapless hero and seemingly Stockholm Syndrome suffering doofus, Devin, follow his cannibal killing saviours to their family home. And, as you'd expect, it's not the cosiest of dwellings. Humour, horror and… hopeless romance? Coming from the usual gang of idiots, Doug Wagner and Daniel Hillyard.

While Devin hides out with his new found friends, the local cops are up for a hunt in 'Plush' #4 by Doug Wagner and Daniel Hillyard. Love is in the air, as is the stench of death, as we learn more about the ferocious furries and their past.

Imprisoned amongst the dead, it doesn't look too good for Devin in 'Plush' #5. But then, it doesn't look good for his fabulous furry freak family either. Doug Wagner and Daniel Hillyard serve up another slice of black comedy-horror which has you rooting for the bad guys. But, who are the real bad guys? Well, it's the cops. We know it's the cops, right?

'Plush' #6 delivers a killer conclusion to this engaging dark comedy from Doug Wagner and Daniel Hillyard. Corrupt cops think they've got the upper hand against a family who we have come to side with against the law. So, can Devin get out alive and get the girl?

On one level Jeff Lemire and Andrea Sorrentino's 'Primordial' #1 is a classic Cold War thriller in the making. But it's also far more ambitious than that, with a sci-fi storyline at its heart and visuals evoking '2001: A Space Odyssey'. Primordial #1 is one part John le Carr and another part Arthur C. Clarke.

Cold War drama meets sci-fi surrealism in another mind-bending issue of Primordial by Jeff Lemire and Andrea Sorrentino. Two separate plots, with two separate art styles.

Primordial #5 jumps in time to 2024 and a much older Yelena. Still hoping to be reunited with Laika. It's a familiar story, but too familiar for this reviewer. Even if dressed up as a science fiction story that spans space and time.

'Primordial' #6 brings closure to a sci-fi series that's one part '2001: A Space Odyssey' and another part The Incredible Journey. A heart-warming ending set against a Cold War backdrop in which Mother Russia has come out on top.

Edison Crane returns in 'Prodigy: Icarus Society' #1 still one of the sharpest minds on the planet. But, is he still the sharpest with this new threat breathing down his throat, and knocking him out?

Edison Crane seems to have met his match not once but twice in 'Prodigy: The Icarus Society #3′ by Mark Millar and Matteo Buffagni. A thrilling frustrating issue with more than a hint of Indiana Jones and a good portion of James Bond level machinations from villain of the month, Felix Koffa, who oozes arrogance and panache in equal measure. Archeological action and vain villainy. Great stuff!

Edison Crane may be a genius but the way he escapes his captors in 'The Prodigy: The Icarus Society' #5 is one of the oldest tricks in the book. A trick that weakens what should have been a grand and verbose finale to an otherwise engaging series.

Ran V and Anand RK's 'Apocalypse Radio' #1 focuses on the last radio station in existence and the community that has built up around it. A beacon of hope as well as a source of comfort for those in earshot. And a salvation for some.

Ed Piskor's 'Red Room' #1 is a gloriously gory modern day E.C. comic book that delivers on visceral, graphically detailed horror delivered with the blackest of humour. And I loved it!

More gory goodness from Ed Piskor in 'Red Room' #2. One of the baddest comics on the shelves, in every sense of the word.

Another new edition of Ed Piskor's 'Red Room' and another new character or two introduced. And with each new face we get a new layer of story added to this torture porn gore-fest. The plot thickens as the blood continues to spill.

Ed Piskor's 'Red Room' continues to shock and push the boundaries of decency. This time round we meet a young woman with revenge in her heart and the obsession and money to do something about it. Another glorious gory issue that ramps the dark, dark comedy up to eleven.

‘Redcoat’ #15 starts with a flashy but false promise of action and adventure, but quickly turns into another dull issue, with the biggest action being a suit fitting at the tailor’s Simon Pure works for. I kid you not.

‘Redcoat’ #15 is the most boring issue of a comic I’ve read this year. ‘Nuff said.

A post-apocalyptic future in which a new society has been founded and forged around the ideals of an old copy of the Scout Rangers Survival Handbook. A world in which survival skills are necessary for your own survival. But also a world in which our hero - a young Scout called Kit - must keep their real identity a secret. And that's not the biggest mystery in this exciting new series AfterShock's 'Scout's Honor' #1, from David Pepose, Luca Casalanguida and Matt Milla.

'Second Coming: Only Begotten Son' #1 switches focus away from Jesus and onto Sunstar in a secret origin story that will be all too familiar to readers. But, it doesn't mean with teh added humour it's not a fresh and funny take on the story of a lone infant rocketed to Earth on a space ship. A space ship made of finest, classiest Zirconia crystal!

Christ continues to find his way in a very mean-spirited world, while Sunstar worries for the both of them. Another well observed and sensational satire from Mark Russell, Richard Pace and Leonard Kirk.

In just one issue Mark Russell, Richard Pace and Leonard Kirk deliver a variety of storylines and emotions that are both real and melodramatic and tinged with tragedy. I can't think of many more emotive comic books than this one that tries to evoke self-reflection in the reader than 'Second Coming: Only Begotten Son'. One to definitely recommend to the FOX News viewer in your life. 

Jesus speaks with his dad while Sunstar takes out a sneaky Eastern European dictator. All this and Sheila goes into labour! It can only be the season finale of Second Coming: Only Begotten Sonby Mark Russell, Richard Pace and Leonard Kirk.

Jesus saves, but can Sunstar as he goes on record at the trial of Cranius in 'Second Coming: Trinity' #1? A third helping of the satirical, but always philosophical series that sees the Son of God return to Earth and, well, babysit for Sunstar as we get to see the other side of the coin and read up on Cranius' story and feel sorry for the bad guy.

'Second Coming: Trinity' #2

'Second Coming: Trinity' #3 gives us a story from Jesus's childhood in which the young saviour to be comes off as something a good deal more than just another local neighbourhood rascal. In fact, his reckless actions would make Dennis the Menace blush. Another issue that perfectly balances the profound with the humorous from Mark Russell, Richard Pace and Leonard Kirk.

'Second Coming: Trinity' #4 may start of as another satirical take on superheroes but it doesn't end that way. A great issue that navigates the reader from high comedy to high drama across the course of the book with the art to match the changing tones.

Jesus tries to save while Sunstar's infant child destroys in 'Second Coming: Trinity' #5. An emotive and dramatic issue that still finds time to make you think.

John Reppion and Mark Penman adaption of the Middle Ages masterpiece, Sir Gawain and the Green Knightis a wonderfully realised new graphic novel. A tale for the ages, and for all ages being both a faithful and fun adaptation of a literary classic.

Snelson is the comedian people love to hate. And, as long as he can make a quick buck, he'll not apologise. But, will that be enough? Another great, observant issue that resonates with the state of our divided culture today.

Postal delivery across the known universe is a life-threatening job where only the toughest and wiliest survive. And new recruit, David S Proton, doesn't seem to have either of these qualities. A loser in life, he's taken on one of the most violent jobs in the galaxy, but is he up for the challenge? A brilliantly black-humoured space-romp with plenty of gore and more.

'Space Bastards' #2 lets us in on the history of the Intergalactic Postal Service as well as giving us a closer look at the man who runs it, Roy Sharpton. A man who most definitely puts the "bastard" into 'Space Bastards'.

Spawn Universe #1 introduces us to the next generation of Spawn inspired heroes in a book that's too reminiscent of the original Image Comics of the early '90s. The problem is, it ain't the '90s anymore. But, has anyone told Todd?

'StarHenge' #1 is a cosmic epic in the making, set in the dark ages of Celtic Britain, contemporary America and the stars themselves as writer/artist Liam Sharp weaves a saga for the ages with suitably stunning art to match.

Merlin has arrived from the future and made himself at home in 5th century Britain. Meanwhile, in the present our pagan-loving protagonist, Amber, gets an unexpected visit from her American boyfriend in Brighton. 'StarHenge' #2 mixes fiction with legends and adds a sprinkle of classic 'Metal Hurlant' cosmic art on tope of a good dose of brooding Dark Ages in this beautifully illustrated comic book.

'StarHenge' #3 depicts a magical recount of the forming of Stone Henge as well as a narrative track from a rather snarky Amber in the 21st century. But why her? As this issue unfolds, we start getting some idea of her role in this legendary tale.

'StarHenge' #4 is an artistic tour de force offering up classic old school comic cuts while continuing to dazzle and astound with digitally rendered art that looks more like gouache and oil paints than it has any right to do. That and well woven story of past present and future that is beginning to chime together by the end of this particular issue.

'StarHenge' #5 delivers and delivers big! On story and especially on art as we weave our way through the past, present and future in a head spinning, trippy ride that comes up in Celtic Britain with King Arthur as dominant force to be reckoned with at home and abroad. Truly a tour de force from creator Liam Sharp.

Liam Sharp's cosmic, Celtic 'StarHenge' #6 delivers more elegant, textured art with a prosaic narrative that offers up plenty of answers to questions posed throughout this series. A sci-fi fantasy that delivers high-end art in a medium often viewed as low-brow culture. Those who think this way, still, ain't read this comic, it would seem.

Alanna takes a winter walk with Mister Terrific in 'Strange Adventures' #6 while we once again get to see Adam Strange is action and in flashback on Rann. Alanna revels herself to be one tough nut while I worry for Adam after her discussions with her interrogator. A great issue that contrast the inaction of Earth with the all-out action of war against the Pykkts. Halfway though and I feel that I'm only just getting to how the real Alanna.

Adam Strange takes a trip; literally and otherwise, in 'Strange Adventures' #7. A comic boo of contrast in both styles and subject matter as we witness Adam take on the role of soldier on Earth, while he's all lots in space in the flashback sequences. Trippy, confusing but certainly an issue that lives up to its title. This really is a strange adventure.

The Pykkts invasion of Earth continues as the bodies pile up and the heroes do their best. Meanwhile, we begin to creep closer and closer to the inevitable death of Adam Strange's daughter. But, if anyone thought the tragedy was what pushed Adam over the edge, you may have other ideas by the end of this issue. Is Adam war hero, or war criminal?

Strange Adventures #9 is another issue that feels like its just playing for time in a comic book that could have easily told its story in half the issues.

'Superman Space Age' #1 offers up a Superman in the making. A hero shaped and influenced by the best, making him the hero he blooms to becoming in this debut issue. Superman is a beacon of hope in a world of much pessimism and national misery from Mark Russell and Mike Allred. Silver Age shenanigans with real-world politics and deadly consequences.

The Swamp Thing #1 introduces a new face behind a familiar name in a great debut issue. American Gothic meets a more globally flavoured horror from Ram V, Mike Perkins and Mike Spicer.

Levi Kamei - the newest champion of the Green - seems to be slowly coming to terms with his surreal nightmares, with Ram V and Mike Perkins delivering another macabrely beautiful issue of 'The Swamp Thing'.

The newest Swamp Thing enters into the Green where he meets not one but two aspects of Poison Ivy while a lots Jennifer also meets up with a familiar DC Comics character with his own links to the Green.

Ram V and Mike Perkins deliver another faultless issue. This issue blooms with an intelligent and entertaining script that is wonderfully captured on the page by Mike Perkins and Mike Spicer. We walk carefully through the Green in an almost dream-like state. But, where there are dreams, there is always the fear of nightmares too.

The Swamp Thing is summoned to London i the latest issue of Ram V's run, and he's not the only supernatural DC character to turn up to a house haunted by a WWII bomb. Guest artist John McCrea is the prefect fit with a style that suits Swampy exceptionally well.

'The Swamp Thing' #6 is another beautiful and bountiful issue that offers up rich language and narrative and equally rich artwork too from Ram V, Mike Perkins and Mike Spicer. An exotic, existential read only spoiled by the arrival of the crass violence of Suicide Squad.

As the Suicide Squad hunt the Swamp Thing one of their ranks makes first contact and forces Levi Kamei to relive his past. It's another glorious and horrific issue that is rich in writing, art and colour from Ram V, Mike Perkins and Mike Spicer.

'The Swamp Thing' #8 is another issue that offers up the prerequisite action scenes suitable for such superhero titles, but delivers more thought provoking existential angst too. But, on this occasion, Levi Kami finds some kind of solace in his troubled past.

The villainous Harper Pilgrim megalomaniacal monologuing in 'The Swamp Thing' #9 only helps serve to build tension as Levi Kamei seeks out the kidnapped Jennifer Reece in New York. An issue that digs up a good deal of themes from previous instalments and connects the deadly dots.

Ram V and Mike Perkins offer up epic scale superhero style action, existential encounters and more in another fast paced and intelligent issue of 'The Swamp Thing'.

'Swamp Thing' #11 returns but with our titular hero far from in the best of conditions after events from the close of Season One. Luckily, Ran V and Mike Perkins are in far better health as they once again deliver an outstanding issue from start to finish.

If Capitalism could live and breathe, then the newly resurrected Harper Pilgrim would be what it looked like. And with Swamp Thing still in deep hibernation, will be revived in time? More existential and dark machinations grow and fester in 'The Swamp Thing' #12

The Swamp Thing #13 sees our hero share a snatched moment of affection with his loved one ahead of another outstanding entry into this saga. Another entertaining, existential, exciting issue from Ram V, Mike Perkins, Mike Spicer and Aditya Bidikar.

Levi Kamei returns as a very different Swamp Thing in this penultimate issue from Ram V and Mike Perkins. Like knot weed, the various strands of this saga entwine together in a brutal ballet with the Earth at stake. Can Kamei's unconventional but hopeful solution save the day?

The Swamp Thing #16 marks the end to the latest chapter in the saga of the Swamp Thing with a note of both hope and dread. Another existential adventure comes to a conclusion, but not necessarily a definitive conclusion. This series bows out, much as it was birthed, thought provoking from start to finish.

'Swamp Thing: Green Hell' #1 portrays a Hellish future in which all our predictions of environmental collapse have occurred and only a few hardy outcrops of humanity still survive. A world which the Green, the Red and the Rot feel must no be reset. A reset the requires these humans to be purged by a new and gruesome Champion of the Green. This is most definitely not a Swamp Thing any reader will recognise in both identity and actions.

'The Ambassadors' #1 mixes old school black ops action with modern day geo-politics as America must wake up to the realisation they're not the global superpower they thought they were? For that, as in the real world, we must look to the East and to bio-engineering genius, Doctor Chung. A billionaire who, unlike many, only has altruistic motives for the world in mind. From Mark Millar and Frank Quietly.

Binnu Bhati from Delhi, India, is the latest recruit to become a global guardian as one of Doctor Choon-He's Ambassadors. We learn more of the programme, and more on the Ambassadors collective powers and limitations. Binnu is our eyes and ears in an informative and entertaining issue.

'The Ambassadors' #3 reminds readers of what they've been missing with the absence of Travis Charest in comics. As well as a continuation of this fun Willy Wonka style storyline - but with capes, cowls and far higher stakes - we get exceptionally engaging art as Charest depicts a Paris that you can almost smell from off the page.

A corrupt police force, a reluctant assassin and a devote priest raging against it all are the key ingredients to Mark Millar and Olivier Coipel's 'The Ambassadors' #4. And, while the artwork stuns and captures the grim and the glamour well, this issue relies too heavily on stock characters and a stereotypical presentation of Brazil that, while true, is also too overplayed in modern media.

In 'The Ambassadors' #5 we meet Codename Australia, a rough, gruff seventy-two year old who gives Doctor Chung a compelling and surprising argument for recruitment and proving, in the process, that age really is just a number.

'The Ambassadors' #6 finally brings the various members of the team together in their first globe-trotting rescue mission. That, and the final fate of Choon-He Chung's ex-husband's own machinations round off a bumper issue that is one part class war and one part DC Comics' Global Guardians, but with far more attitude.

Imagine if the tin-foil hat wearing conspiracy theorists were right? Welcome to the dark and dangerous world of 'The Department of Truth' and its newest recruit, Cole Turner. A man who has had his own brush with the dayside of life and may well be ready to remember in this creepy horror tainted comic book from James Tynion IV and Martin Simmonds.

The Department of Truth #3 delivers a personal and tragic tale of one mourning mother. A mother open to suggestion, which causes problems for our men and women in black who are on the case. Looks like there may be more than one truth out there. And those others must be quashed to maintain the status quo.

Cole Turner has an unexpected visitor in 'The Department of Truth'. One who tries to offer him an alternative perspective in a world gone mad. A fittingly head-spinning finale to the first arc of this engaging, thought-provoking seers from James Tynion IV and Martin Simmonds.

We get an interlude from the main storyline in The Department of Truth #6, but an important one nonetheless. We delve into Medical history and learn how far back the conspiracy culture of the series goes. A book that will drag you into its story and smack you with a rather illuminating revelation at the end too. A revelation that will have a part to play in the present.

The Department of Truth #7 offers up another intriguing peek into the history of the agency with an issue focussed on tinfoil hat wearing agent Doc Hynes. From James Tynion IV and guest artists Tyler Boss.

The Department of Truth #8 returns us to ourregularscheduled programmingwith yet more conspiracies to be over-explain and thereby side-stepping anyreal action. Again. Is this series becoming too formulaic for its own good?

'The Department of Truth' #9 continues to join the dots between the various conspiracy theories oft-discussed (and believe) in this alternative world history. The Department's fixer - Hawk Harrison - rudely returns to visit Cole Turner and eulogises on the power of magic, symbols and religion in another intriguing and thought-provoking issue.

More exposition on the nature of belief and tulpas, but after twelve issues it's beginning to feel repetitive. Thankfully Martin Simmonds' art saves the day once more.

While there is so much to commend 'The Department of Truth' on, the constant introduction and explanation of conspiracy theories and how they gain power in this world is becoming too much for this humble reviewer. A repetitive formula that only gets in the way of the more interesting story being told at a quicker pace.

We catch up with runaways Jael and Sharri once again in The Goddamned The Virgin Brides #3. A couple of young teenage girls who marvellously and miraculously continue to survive the desolate wastelands of early civilisation. A civilisation informed by the fire and brimstone of the Book of Genesis, of course, with enemies and foes to match.

Reading for pleasure can have dire consequences if the book you're reading is the new one from author, Olivia Kade in The Last Book You'll Ever Read #1. A book that will have a savage reaction on even the mildest of readers i this new horror series from Vault Comics.

The irrepressible Cordelia and her family return in a debut issue dripping with dark magic and even darker forebodings. A well paced issue that suggests a promising confrontational clash to come between two families with very different world views.

The New Order 2 #2 continues to build a new corner of this fascinating supernatural world of sorcerers, warlocks and magic folk. We get more of the salty Kevin Mitchell as well as the introduction of the charismatic but damaged Francis King. Plus, more on the machinations of the Romanian tracksuited bad guys too. A good deal of plot with the promise of action to come. From Mark Millar, Stuart Immonen, Sunny Gho and David Curiel.

A long-held family grudge explained, and a city under siege from the forces of dark magic. Horror, fantasy and fish and chips!

'The Magic Order 2' #4 is another big screen blockbuster sized issue in terms of thrills, spills and magic spells. Stand out star of this sequel series, Kevin Mitchell, gets a good look-in in this comic book, and sets the brash, ballsy tone as a result. Magic stuff from Mark Millar and Stuart Immonen.

One issue left and Mark Millar and Staurt Immonen ramp up the action, the drama, and the bodycount. Things are looking bleak for the Magic Order and Victor Korne and his family try to welcome in a new magic world order.

Mark Millar and Stuart Immonen finally reveal their prestige in 'The Magic Order 2' #6 with more than the odd sleight of hand that keeps readers on their toes. A big and bombastic finale with more than the odd surprise.

With 'The Magic Order 3' #1 we get to see even more of this globally spanning secret society with new characters and new locations. And new threats. An engaging first issue that has enough foreshadowing and foreboding to grab your attention.

'The Magic Order 3' #2 offers up more than one glimpse into the past and the meeting of the Moonstones, mom and pop to Cordelia. But, in doing so we are witness to some rather doom-laden prophecies. Mysteries and revelations abound in the latest issue of the Moonstone saga from Mark Millar and Gigi Cavenago.

The young Rosie Moonstone goes on an underwater adventure that leads her to see things a little girls just shouldn't see. Luckily her uncle Sasha is on hand to help her in her education. At least I think that's what the Magic Order's number one hitman has in mind, right?

'The Magic Order 3' #4 shocks and stuns in equal measures. While Rosie Moonstone had been nefariously whisked away by hitman-for-hire, Sacha Sanchez, there is further trouble brewing back at the Moonstone Castle. It all ads up to a rather drama-filled issue written by Mark Millar with some wonderfully magical artwork from Gigi Cavenago.

'The Magic Order 3' #6 delivers one last sleight of hand that readers should not be able to see coming, and as a result delivers a series finale that shocks and surprises. And, like all good magicians, the truth was in front of all our eyes from the very start of this engaging and entertaining issue. Now that's magic, from Mark Millar and Gigi Cavenago.

'The Magic Order 4' #1 is one part supernatural horror story and one part bloody revolution as we pick up, swiftly, from events revealed at the end of the last series. A fast-paced set of events suggesting that time is of the essence if this particular revolution is to succeed. But can it? After all, as any magician will tell you, not everything you see is real. A strong start to the latest chapter in the Moonstone family saga.

Albany's foul play continues to ripple through 'The Magic Order' Vol.4 #2 By Mark Millar and Dike Ruan. An issue that skips along at a brisk pace thanks to a suspenseful and tense script and cool, slick and stylish art from Ruan.

With Albany's infiltration of the Magic Order all but complete, 'The Magic Order 4' #3 decides to hit pause and offer up the origin story of old man Edgar. And, what a story it is. A Greek Tragedy for the modern age sprawling across two very different worlds.

Cordelia and Francis are captives of the Wizard King in 'The Magic Order 4' #4 as writer Mark Millar and artist Dike Ruan crank up the tension. Can anyone survive against the unstoppable and savage tyrant who als0 happens to be Cordelia's long lost brother?

Siblings strike in'The Magic Order 4' #5 as Cordelia and Perditus transform and tussle in a high-octane action sequence that starts off another great issue of this Harry Potter/Quentin Tarantino mash-up.

'The Magic Order' Vol.4 #6 gives us a bold, brash, creative climax that is a delight to read. Another out of left field, surprise ending from Mark Millar with stunning art from Dike Ruan and Giovanna Niro. Spellbinding from cover to cover.

John Ridley offers up a very distinct and alternative take on the history of DC Comics' black characters in this out-of-continuity new Black Label series. Told through the rightfully cynical eye of Black Lightning, we get a trip back through time that is as much a reflection of the social and political struggle of Black American as it is about black superheroes and their place in the privileged world of white superheroes.

The history of the Teen Titans is recounted by Malcolm and Karen Duncan. As you would imagine, both have differing memories of the past, but both can be sure of one thing: tokenism and subconscious racism was rife in the DCU. A great alternative take on DC Comics history and culture with on and off the page.

The Alternative History of the DC Universe #3 hits the mind-'80s with Batman and the Outsider' s member Katana cast as this issue's narrator. Another solid and substantial issue that re-evaluates the nostalgia-tinted stories of yesteryear from the hard-hitting perspective of minority characters.

Paris, in the late 19th century. A serial killer is on the loose, while two down-and-out Parisian artists go about sustaining themselves through parties and pilfering. Until, that is, they meet the supernaturally cursed basil Hallward. Last seen dying by the bloody hands of Dorian Gray back in London. A murderous mystery and a daring debut issue from Dan Watters and Kishmor Mohan.

In Dan Watters and Kishore Mohen's'The Picture of Everything' #3 we learn more about Basil'smature plan as well as delve into his recent history and exactly how he manages to still be living after the events of 'A Picture of Dorian Gray'. A fascinating mix of gothicism and art history with the boundaries between real life and fiction blurring even further.

‘The Power Fantasy’ #13 continues to engage with the reader by posing tough philosophical questions with even tougher answers. Whether they’re the right answers or not is up for debate. But then, that’s part of the success of this series; it trusts the readership to take on board these questions and their own conclusions. Just not the conclusions the Atomics may have. Philosophy and superpowers? Now, that’s my kind of comic.

‘The Power Fantasy’ #14 is a slow-burning issue. Scene after scene, the reader can sense the tension amongst the various characters mount and build. Without a single punch being thrown. A cerebral superhero series from Kieron Gillen, Caspar Wijngaard and Image Comics.

Eliza Hellbound is very much living up to her name in this issue as her emotional rollercoaster of a ride continues, with all of reality at stake. Can she even be stopped? ‘The Power Fantasy’ #15 is a highly emotional, tragedy-in-the-making that beautifully and brutally sets up the promise of a shocking grand finale next issue.

‘The Power Fantasy’ #16 delivers a stunning, epic finale, delivering next-level art by Caspart Wijngaard and bold storytelling, and emotional resonance from writer Kieron Gillen. You really should have read this series.

The concluding issue of this first season continues to be engaging but also frustratingly inconclusive. A world has been build and populated in great detail.But we have only just scratched the surface of this new shared universes from J Michael Stracsynski. and Mike Deodato Jr. Real world politics comes crashing down on the superhero genre in a book that's one part Stan Lee and another part John Le Carre.

'The Sandman Universe: Nightmare Country' #1 is a blend of both beautifully prosaic language and equally disturbing imagery as James Tynion IV captures the appropriate tone and cadence of Neil Gaiman's much beloved dark corner of the DCU. A promising start to the latest visit to the Dreaming and all its deadly charms.

'The Union' #1 introduces us to an all-new British-based superhero team made up of supes from across the United Kingdom. A training mission handily allows writer Paul Grist to introduce this new team one character at a time, as well as set up drama and danger that the team will be acing in the next issue. A solid first issue, but not a stellar one.

Britannia is dead just as we were getting to know her. The King in Black's forces are on the attack and have taken their first scalp by possessing team member Choir. The team are in hot pursuit, but it's the internal conflict that's the real threat in 'The Union' #2 from Paul Grist, Andrea De Vito and Le Beau Underwood.

The Union #4 brings a reluctant team back together again when their colleague and friend, Ten Choir, goes missing in Wales. Freed from the limitation the King in Black tie-in forced upon the plot, this is a book that's beginning to finally find its own voice. Sadly there's only one more issue to go in this current series. I do hope this isn't the first and last time we'll be seeing The Union.

Dragonfly, Stinger and Deuce journey to an Archie Comics' inspired parallel Earth for a fun adventure that respectfully and humorously pastiches the characters and conventions of these funny books. A fun and frothy adventure that never takes itself seriously, and neither should the reader. Sit back and enjoy the journey!

Time travel, for a price. And if you can afford it then the likes of Tatsuo, a down-and-out loser in life forced to work for the Syndicate in order to pay off his debt in new sci-fi thriller, Time Before Them #1 by Declan Shalvey and Joe Palmer. Until the day he Strats thinking of stealing a time-travelling pod and hiding from it all. But, with so much bad luck, will be ever get a break?

'Timeless' #1 offers up a story in which Kang the Conqueror stars, while also hinting at events in the Marvel universe over the coming year or so. Kang is observed and commented upon by Russian academic Anatoly Petrov, who offers up a narrative take on this super villain that is more objective and thereby thought-provoking than many. An interesting issue and filled with superheroic action and tantalising promises too.

Traveling to Mars #1 is one part 'Silent Running' and one part a figurative journey in finding yourself as Roy Livingston sets off on a one-way trip to the red planet to claim it for Corporate America. Mark Russell and Roberto Meli deliver a very personal and profound sci-fi yarn you can't help but connect with.

We return to the wonderful land of Oz with ‘Ultimate Oz Universe Vol.1: The Lost Lands’, a new graphic novel series that reintroduces us to the familiar lands of Oz, while introducing us to new people and places in this engaging, sumptuous new series by Cullen Bunn, Larry King and artist Mike Deadato Jr.

The gang travel through Unity, a new, high-tech drenched area of this new America, that sees some familiar faces returning and a good deal of exposition in favour of action. A modern day 'Wizard of Oz' for contemporary comic book readers looking for something different from their usual pull list.

A rather dull issue, even with all the action, as out heroes continue to explore the high-tech paradise that is Unity. A paradise that isn't all it would seem. But then, was anyone thinking anything different? A disappointing issue to an otherwise entertaining series.

DC Comics' strangest superheroes are back and hitting the ground running in 'The Unstoppable Doom Patrol' #1 from writer Dennis Culver and artist Chris Burnham. A trip to Gotham gives them all the excuse they need to kick-off their new mission; save all monsters.

'Unstoppable Doom Patrol' #2 delivers on all fronts. We get the continuation of the surprise

Robotman and Negative Man go up against the Green Lantern Corps as they take in another new waive and stray looking to be understood. But, as the galaxy's police squad, the Green Lanterns would rather shoot first and ask questions last. Which makes up for a conflict in the making in 'Unstoppable Doom Patrol' #3 by Dennis Culver and Chris Burnham.

Unstoppable Doom Patrol #5 is another suitably odd issue with Robotman and Elasti-Girl on the ground delivering up the action and knocking more than a few heads, while Niles Caulder, the new Chief and others come face to face with the CEO of Metagen Corporation.