I've often been a strong proponent for all-age comics. That doesn't mean that's all we want or need. This is a perfect example of what a Mature comic should be. There is plenty of gritty situations but it fits perfectly with the story and never comes across as gratuitous. The gang's all here in bringing us back to the 100 BULLETS universe yet you do not need to be well versed in the previous series. It's a perfect new-reader friendly story but will only be enhanced with the anticipation if you are familiar with Lono. If you're looking for something with an edgy gritty feel or have read Azzarello's 100 BULLETS, you will not want to miss this.

It's weird to think where Spider-Man might be when he reaches his 100th anniversary. We get an interesting story here set in this time period. While it's clearly Spider-Man (and a couple other characters), you can see how some things have changed or been rebooted given the future time period. The art is pretty amazing. The story is fascinating but given that this is just one issue and we're jumping in right at the end of an "eight part" story, you won't know exactly where everyone is and who knows if we'd ever see this time period revisited. Spider-Man, Venom, and Kingpin fans should pick to see the possibility but we can't say it's an absolutely crucial read.

The X-Men and future storylines go hand in hand. This 100th Anniversary Special gives us a look at the current continuity of X-Men in the future. It's always interesting to see what may or may not happen and Robin Furth does a great job in taking today's X-Men and putting them in a possible future scenario. Jason Masters ages the characters accordingly and you'll find yourself pausing while reading to wonder what might have happened to some of these characters in the time between. As a 'special' one-shot and future story, there obviously won't be huge repercussions for today's books but it's a pretty cool look at how the X-Men's world could be. The last page will make you wonder if that should or shouldn't be where the characters are headed.

You've probably heard about a little movie called 2 Guns with some up and coming actors hitting theaters this week (of course that's sarcasm). If you haven't already read the original, you should check it out either before or after you see the movie. 3 GUNS picks up after the events fro the first. You can easily get by without reading the first volume but it does enhance the fun if you're familiar with the characters. Steven Grant does a great job setting up these crazy situations with lots of twists. You'll definitely want to see what happens next. Emilio Laiso puts careful little details in the art that makes it great to look at as well. Chances are, you want to see 2 Guns in theaters. Then you're going to want to read 3 GUNS. I could see this easily selling out so get your butt to your local comic shop and buy a copy.

Vampires are making a comeback. Even though the 30 Days of Night franchise has been around for a while, a certain other vampire franchise along with the seemingly over-abundance of them in other media have made vampires hard to accept. Steve Niles along with others like Scott Snyder, Joshua Hale Fialkov, etc are showing us the genre can't be killed. In this series, Niles is keeping the action out of Alaska and the introduction of a new character has the potential to push the series in a new direction. Despite having missed some of the recent mini-series, I was able to jump right back into this universe with ease. Sam Kieth's art is a delight to see even if some panels feel like their slightly lacking in details. Kieth has the ability to capture an almost cartoony feel and then slams you in the face with violence and blood. With the vampires having a new group of foes to deal with, you'll be hooked in wanting to see what is going to happen next.

If you've enjoyed the classic MARVEL TEAM-UP stories and have wanted to see more, this is where we're going to find them. The idea here is to get fun stories and adventures without focusing on where the story actually fits into the overall continuity. With creators such as Dan Slott, Ron Garney, Jeph Loeb and Dale Keown, we get to see creators work on characters they don't normally get a chance to. Because these are more random stories, it could be questioned how important they may be to the characters and Marvel Universe, especially at $3.99. We'll have to wait and see if anything that occurs in these stories pops up in other titles in the future. These stories may not be absolutely crucial but if you're looking for some really fun stories with great art and you dig the characters involved, you will definitely want to check this out.

This book was pretty much exactly what I wanted and hoped for. Too many times the female heroes in the Marvel Universe get overlooked. Marguerite Bennett and G. Willow Wilson have created a natural feeling world. It's easy to cry out that having just female heroes is a gimmick but it all simply works here. And it works in a great way. You'll find yourself wanting to know more of the region and the relationship and connections each character has with one another. There's just a wonderful vibe going on. Jorge Molina's art and Laura Martin and Matt Milla's colors add to that. With actual ties to the main SECRET WARS book, this doesn't feel like an isolated story done just for the heck of it. You get a sense that it is part of the bigger story. This is our chance to explore the specific region closely and you'll be glad you got the chance. I'm so ready for the next issue now.

Snyder and Lemire take a bit of a risk with this project, and it pays off. Lemire's art and colors are fantastic to see, but having Snyder's prose allows the story to go much deeper. It's a great mix, and the story fully grabs your attention. This isn't a book you just read, you experience it.

This issue shows that comic books can have different kinds of story and different ways to tell them. Told without actual dialogue, we get a pretty powerful story involving Abe Sapien. After big cataclysmic events in comics, we don't often see how it affects the everyman and what they go through afterwords. Mignola and Allie do just that. The story takes a slightly dark path and there will be some surprises that just might catch you off guard. Max Fiumara's art with Dave Stewart's colors complete the vibe and atmosphere the story requires. It's not often a comic can deliver this kind of emotion. The story might be a little off-putting but it's definitely something you should check out. Don't miss this issue.

ACTION COMICS started out strongly in the beginning. We had the chance to see the early days of an inexperienced Superman. This zero issue touches on that. Unfortunately while this was a nice story, it didn't blow me away as some of the earlier issues. There's so much potential in this younger Superman but it felt as if there were some limitations in what sort of threat he could go up against. But we do get to see some firsts in this issue. There are little tidbits to check out. The interesting part will be to see if anything in future issues will touch on any of the events here. I simply want more from my Superman comics. Let's hope that the second year of the New 52 will make me a happy Superman fan.

This is not the Superman you're looking for, and that's a good thing. From the first images of a younger Superman in jeans, work boots and a S t-shirt, we were left wondering what Grant Morrison and Rags Morales were up to. With the intentions of giving us a Superman that was different from what we've been reading the last couple decades, they have succeeded.

I am still completely sold on this title. I've enjoyed Superman before but the idea of seeing a younger, less powerful version left me a little skeptical. Morrison is doing a great job in setting up the Superman and possibly the DC Universe in this issue. Seeing familiar faces before they establish themselves as major parts of Superman's life was great to see. We find out some of the motivation behind the attack against Superman last issue and get to find out some more about Superman along the way. This is becoming one of my favorite 'New 52' titles and I cannot wait for the next issue.

Grant Morrison delivers another good issue of Superman in his younger days. It wasn't as stellar as the first two issues but there are some more revelations and developments brewing here. The mix of Rags Morales and Gene Ha gives the book a different feel from the other issues. Ha's depiction of Krypton (which we finally get to see and find out how it compares to past interpretations) is a sight to be seen. The new plight of the public being anti-Superman is a nice twist but it doesn't seem like an overly exciting storyline. Obviously with the fact that Superman is seen as more of a hero in SUPERMAN, we know this will somehow turn around. Grant Morrison set the bar high with the first two issues and with the way this one ends, we're bound to see some major action next month.

This is Grant Morrison telling Superman's origin. I would be surprised if there was anyone not interested in seeing what Grant has to say about this story. ACTION COMICS has been leading the pack in the 'New 52.' We may have seen Superman's origin many times but we've never seen Morrison and Andy Kubert tell it. Seeing what he feels is important and where he takes the story is worth the price of admission. Getting an extra back up story by Sholly Fisch and ChrisCross makes it that much sweeter.

ACTION COMICS continues to stand out as one of the more interesting "New 52" titles. While many gripe about the changes happening and elements that are getting lost, with ACTION COMICS, it's like taking part in an adventure. With Grant Morrison at the helm, there's always a sense that anything goes. Each issue is full of surprises and twists that evolves the character into an almost new one. As a long time reader, I don't want to see Superman go through change after change but I can't help myself sitting back and enjoying the stories as they unfold. There is plenty going on here. With both the present day Superman and an even younger one than we've seen before, get ready to learn a lot more about who this Superman is. If you've been wanting more answers about Superman's origin, be prepared to get a few.

ACTION COMICS is one of the comics that sits high on my list of favorite "New 52" books. Seeing Grant Morrison write Superman's past keeps you on the edge of your seat. Even though we pretty much know where he ends up and who he becomes, Morrison makes the development of his character an interesting read. Rags Morales continues to win me over with his depiction of this younger Superman and I hate the idea that soon he'll be in his regular costume rather than what I at first thought was a silly look for Superman. The action is toned down a little as Superman tries uncovering what the aliens/attackers are doing and those trapped in the bottle are figuring out what's going on but there is still some exciting moments within.

The first arc is over. What comes next? We've had a pretty good idea how this story has to end. That is one of the downfalls in telling a story set during Superman's early days while pretty much all the other "New 52" comics are set in the present. The ending almost feels rushed as suddenly we're witnessing the aftermath of it all. The stage has been set for Superman and now we're ready to see his adventures as a hero rather than a vigilante. Morrison brings it all together but it's the mix of four different artists in the book that drags it down a little. The adventures of young Superman may be over but we all know that Morrison has plenty more tricks up his sleeve. This has just been the appetizer for whatever he has planned.

Reading ACTION COMICS is getting to feel like riding a roller coaster. Some issues are highs (and great to read) while others dip down a bit. This is one of the dips. Having an issue focused on the Superman from Earth 23 is interesting and gives us a chance to see more of the character Grant introduced during FINAL CRISIS. While the story is nice to see, Superman as President, it feels like a filler issue. Have we come to expect too much from Grant Morrison these days or is there just something I'm absolutely missing here? This issue was fun at times and a curious read. It just didn't feel like it fit in as an entire issue of ACTION COMICS.

Grant Morrison and Rags Morales are still bringing us the younger Superman. I had concerns that because he gained the Kryptonian armor, the series would jump forward to catch up with SUPERMAN. The 'bad guy' here leaves a little to be desired as his motives feel a little clich but we do get some more developments that you'll gobble up while reading the story. It feels odd that the back up story takes place after next month's issue but it is good to be getting an actual back up story instead of other extras. I was getting a little worried about the series but with this first part in a new story arc, I can feel my excitement building up again. That feeling that Morrison has something up his sleeve is coming back and he shows that a Superman comic can be fun and exciting. This is what I want from a Superman comic.

Reading ACTION COMICS sometimes feels like riding a roller coaster. Some issues are great and others are a little lacking. This was a solid issue despite not containing any major catastrophic events in the life of Superman. Where this series shines is in continuing to show the earlier days of Superman. Despite the other series taking place in the present, ACTION simply delivers more on who Superman is. The downside is with Superman allowing his alter ego of Clark Kent to be killed, we know that decision won't stick. It does raise the question of how much does his time as Clark Kent define who he is? Is he really willing to so easily give up Clark Kent's existence in order to be Superman and whatever other secret identity he creates? We are also treated to a fun back-up story picking up on details that may not be crucial but is a topic the nit-picky fans will love to see.

When you first read this issue, you get a sense that this will be one of the average issues of the series. We've seen some great stories along with some so-so ones. As the story unfolds, you begin to see that there is more going on than was first apparent. The kicker is towards the end and it should open your eyes and bring a smile to your face. There was a back up mentioned in the original solicit but this is a 30-page story. There were some key moments towards the end that made this a fun read, specifically the conversation with Mrs. N. We'll definitely want to see the repercussions from this issue. Hopefully they'll play out within the next four issues...

Krypto. That's enough to make me happy. We've been wondering what his fate was since the New 52 started. Now we finally have some answers, including clarification as to what the "ghost dog" mentioned in earlier issues meant. Seeing the beginning of the Phantom Zone and the return of Xa-Du raised the excitement. You'll find the back up touching your emotions as you see the relationship between baby Kal-El and Krypto and realize how much they lost. Grants different approach to the narrative gives the story a classic feel to it and fitting for a Halloween story, despite not really being a Halloween story. If you've been wondering what Krypto's fate will be, you need to check this issue out.

This is the type of Grant Morrison Superman story I want. You can feel Grant unshackling the story he's been building on this series. We get to see so much, it's almost overwhelming but in a good way. Superman comics in the New 52 have had some rough patches, even at times in this series. But this issue really shines. We get a glimpse of a bigger picture and you can only imagine what Grant has coming for us as he wraps up his run. There's a lot of emotions to experience. You'll boo as the villain plans his evil scheme and want to cringe as you see a sad moment about to unfold. It's a bummer that it has to end but you can always read it again.This is definitely an issue I'll want to read over again.

The end is near and you can see it coming. With just one more issue from Grant Morrison after this, you can feel everything building up to an explosive finale. There is plenty of action here gloriously drawn by Brad Walker and Rags Morales. Morrison and Sholly Fisch (in the back up) even won me over with the way they wrote the Legion of Super-Heroes. There's some bad stuff happening to Superman. This is shaping up to be a crazy and epic run for Morrison. We're assuming he has something big planned for his final issues so you'll definitely want to be caught up and on hand when it happens. There were moments of confusion but there's so much excitement contained here.

It's the end of Grant Morrison's tenure on ACTION COMICS. We've had some good times and this issue serves to bring a conclusion to many of the threads he started throughout the run. Rags Morales gives us some great visuals in depicting the wacky fight between Superman and Vyndktvx. It gave a nice ending but didn't have the explosive finish I was hoping for. Perhaps expectations grew too high with all the stakes riding on this one. I will definitely re-read Morrison's entire run. Perhaps reading it all together or allowing a little time to pass will enhance the experience. I just wish we had a more grand ending.

Obviously there's something that could be said about the unfortunate fact that this new team of Diggle and Daniel will not be on the series for more than a few issues. The important thing is, this was the type of comic Superman deserves. We get some great interaction between Lois and Clark, amazing action scenes with Superman and Lex Luthor looking the like the cold and immensely cruel individual he's supposed to be. There are some tiny bumps in this issue but nothing to get hung up on. In a perfect world, we'd get to see Diggle and Daniel on ACTION COMICS for a long run. This is the kind of stuff that makes ACTION COMICS super.

The second part in the Andy Diggle/Tony Daniel run continues with a great deal of action and suspense. Taking place one year ago from the current continuity, we get to see more of what defines Superman as well as Lex Luthor. I can't say I was a fan of his portrayal previously but now he seems back on track as the evil slimy guy we love to hate. We also get to see more on Shay Veritas, the mysterious woman first seen in SUPERMAN 13. If this wasn't enough, there's a back up story by Scott Lobdell and Philip Tan that starts a new story dealing with a younger Jor-El on Krypton. I wasn't completely crazy about the situation Superman has to deal with but the story still moves at a nice pace and the art is worth checking out. It's great seeing Superman done the right way.

This unfortunately marks the end of Tony Daniel's run on the series. Handling the art and scripting from Andy Diggle's plot, it feels as if the story got cut short and it would've been nice to see the story fleshed out a little more. There are some great sequences and Daniel's art really captured the essence of Superman/Clark, Lois and even Jimmy. The backup story focusing on Lara on Krypton is interesting but it's not fully clear what we'll get from this or other installments. There are some nice touches to the story and it's just unfortunate it had to come to an end so quickly. Fingers crossed the next issue will keep up the momentum this arc started.

Greg Pak continues to show us he has a great take on Superman and his universe. In an issue I questioned the need for before reading, I found myself deeply hooked in the telling of who Zod was and how he grew into the General we've seen in the Superman comics. Greg Pak and Ken Lashley give us a unique look at the man and parts of Krypton we haven't seen before. You will come to understand Zod a little more and not see him as quite the two-dimensional villain he's often portrayed as. This was an example of a Villains Month title that left me wanting more. Greg Pak has definitely earned his place as a Superman writer.

Are we getting Villains-overload? We are but when you have a complex character like Lex Luthor, you can't resist having a good time. Charles Soule does a great job delving into what makes Lex tick. His inner monologue is just what we'd want to see in a Lex-solo story. The art is okay but there are some minor distracting moments that pull you out of the story. If you've been wondering how Lex changed and moved into the position seen in FOREVER EVIL #1, you'll definitely want to check this out. Charles Soule gets who Lex Luthor is and that's always great to see when Lex is given the spotlight.

Greg Pak delivers a lot of action as we see more of Lana Lang in Superman's life. Fighting a big beast allows Superman to cut loose a little. It's not just non-stop action as we are introduced to some new elements as well as get a chance to see Superman struggle with the decisions of his action when it comes to saving multiple lives. Aaron Kuder doesn't miss a beat and keeps up with the action in Pak's script with ease. Pak is setting up a bigger story and you'll want to be on board to see what's coming up.

Greg Pak and Aaron Kuder have given us a great and fun issue of ACTION COMICS. This is the sort of comic you should buy an extra copy or two to share with friends. With Superman somehow ending up on Bizarro World, we get a return of the classic Bizarro we all loved before the New 52. Pak delivers some wacky and fitting situations. Kuder's art and Wil Quintana's colors capture the feel of Bizarro World perfectly. I am definitely going to re-read this book. Buy this book. You'll love it. If you hate it, clearly you're from Bizarro World.

We've been wondering where the classic Superman villains are and we're finally getting them. As annuals should, this double sized issue focuses on giving us the origin of the New 52 versions of Kryptonite Man and Atomic Skull. They both have similar stories to their original counterparts but the update is fitting for the new 'universe.' Sholly Fisch gets the chance to step away from the back ups in giving a fully length feature and Max Landis makes his comic writing debut with a chilling silent story illustrated by Ryan Sook. Both villains may not blow you away but seeing them in an issue focused on their story rather than mixed into a regular one allows for more exploration into who they are. This is what comic book annuals should do, rather than continue a story from the main series.

There's a lot to like in the latest issue of Action Comics. The return of the original numbering and classic Superman is something we've been looking forward to. With Lex Luthor launching his latest scheme, we're seeing a return of the old conflict between him and the Man of Steel. Zircher and Morey's art and colors gives the story a great feel. The issue does serve as a catch up for new readers and also drives the story forward. Jurgens sets up some nice twists readers won't be able to turn their backs on. My excitement for Superman comics has risen to a new level.

How could something so wrong feel so right? It didn't seem like crossing ARCHIE characters and zombies could fit together but Roberto Aguirre-Sacasa and Francesco Francavilla make it work perfectly. It could be easy to dismiss the idea as a gimmick to cash in on the zombie genre but the zombie craze isn't what it used to be. Instead, we get a fascinating meshing of these two worlds and, as horror stories should, it will make you feel completely uneasy in the pit of the stomach. If you're even slightly familiar with Archie and the gang and enjoy a good horror or zombie story, you owe it to yourself to check this out. You'll definitely want to sink your teeth into it. Just be sure to keep it away from the children.

I am still completely sold on this concept. We've seen plenty of zombie stories. We've even seen zombie stories cross over with established characters in comics. This is a different pairing that was completely unexpected. The idea of the clean and wholesome Archie characters facing death and mutilation is bizarre. Roberto Aguirre-Sacasa easily makes it work. The key to zombie survival stories is caring about the survivors. Because of their nature, you won't want to see any harm come to these characters. That's what makes it more compelling and gives you that slightly sick feeling in the pit of your stomach. Francesco Francavilla's art is a perfect fit for the dark and suspenseful tale. You haven't seen an Archie story like this and you won't want to miss it. Just be sure you're not too squeamish and be sure to keep it away from the kids.

AFTERLIFE WITH ARCHIE has become a book I look forward to each month. It's hard to imagine this being an ongoing series but that makes it all the better. Archie Comics took a big risk with crossing over the beloved characters with such a dark and deadly tone. That risk is paying off in a big way. Roberto Aguirre-Sacasa and Francesco Francavilla are doing a remarkable thing. The Archie characters have never felt so alive despite the fact that characters are actually getting killed. This isn't the Archie Comic you're used to. This isn't a cheap zombie gimmick. AFTERLIFE WITH ARCHIE has a great story with character development and superb art that will give you chills.

Roberto Aguirre-Sacasa and Francesco Francavilla are making something unforgettable with AFTERLIFE WITH ARCHIE. This is far from a gimmick. It's not just another zombie story. It's not even just another Archie story either. The seemingly innocent characters we all know, whether you've ever read an Archie comic or not, are being transformed to another level. Aguirre-Sacasa is making careful effort to develop these characters in a way that will open your eyes. You can see where they're coming from and the horrible situation they now are in. Fracavilla's art is both beautiful and disturbing at the same time. There is such a sense of dread and trepidation that really puts this comic over the top.

It's the end of the first story arc and thankfully we still have some of the beloved Archie characters around. It's no surprise why so many people are talking about and enjoying this series. Roberto Aguirre-Sacasa is brilliantly laying out the groundwork for this ongoing series. Francesco Francavilla's art manages to keep the characters separate enough from the all-ages familiar Archie look but not so much that you can't tell who everyone is. His style also captures the dark and dreary mood of the story. You can see and feel the hopelessness some of the characters are feeling. This issue marks the end of the first arc but feels more like a set up for the next issue. We don't get too much closure and because this is ongoing, you wouldn't really want too much of that. If you haven't been reading this, you need to fix that right away.

AFTERLIFE WITH ARCHIE continues to 'wow' us with the story and character development. This isn't just "Archie with zombies." There is much more to this series than that. It's a tale of survival along with the opportunity to get to know these characters for the first time in a different setting. Roberto Aguirre-Sacasa and Francesco Francavilla have created a wonderful new comic world that manages to punch you in the gut with each emotional development. With this the beginning of a new story arc, new readers could jump in, but readers should truly track down the previous issues or trade to get the full story. It's absolutely worth it. Seeing the Archie gang in this comic is so wrong but it's also so good to read this book.

I say the same thing with the release of each issue, you really need to be reading this series. We've seen plenty of zombie apocalypse stories but there is so much more here. A good story of survival relies heavily on the characters. Roberto Aguirre-Sacasa brilliantly captures and sets up situations for them that makes you feel a connection to them. You have no choice but to care and be concerned for them. Francesco Francavilla's artwork is perfect for the series. He sets up the atmosphere needed and gives the characters a unique look while they still maintain a tiny resemblance to their original counterparts. This series is taking things seriously. We have some heavy themes going on. It's the perfect blend of horror and suspense with plenty of character building and moments of awe. The wait in between issues is harsh but any month we get a new issue is a great one.

Forget what you know about the X-Men. AGE OF APOCALYPSE takes the idea of turning everything upside down but this title is going places the previous mini-series haven't gone. We definitely have a darker feel with desperation seeing the story from the humans' perspective. Lapham and De La Torre work wonders together is giving this series a unique feel that makes it clear this isn't your average X-title. If you like the AoA world or want to see a different take on the X-Universe, this is definitely a series to check out. Other non-mutant characters may pop up as well as we get to see how everyone has been affected by this universe. If you're looking for something new with elements of familiarity, this series won't let you down.

AGE OF ULTRON has finally begun. Without seeing the trigger that caused the Marvel Universe to become devastated, there are definite pros and cons with the first issue. We don't get bogged down by seeing the events take shape. The opportunity to jump right into the action is here. At the same time, we have no idea how it came to this state. There is a nice sense of mystery along with a feeling of despair seeing the heroes and world like this. The art and action gets intense and you will feel the need to want to know how all this came to be. Bendis has started another ambitious story. It's not just anyone that can cause such devastation to the Marvel Universe without explaining it step by step. We can assume big things are coming. We're already getting a glimpse of the craziness we can expect. Was AGE OF ULTRON worth the wait? With everything Bendis and Hitch throw at us in this first issue, the answer is yes.

We may be on event-overload but I'm getting more and more excited for this one. We still don't have all the answer as to how it all started but we are getting some more details. Seeing other characters like Black Widow and Moon Knight was great. We are getting more set up. It's looking like next issue will definitely contain more action. Bryan Hitch's are great as he captures the mood of this world and seeing his character designs here makes the story more compelling. I almost feel like a kid getting this excited over a comic book event. I can't wait to see what happens next.

The story is continuing to unfold. It is fun to see the heroes getting together, ready to face the unknown dangers that await them. It would be nice to have the action pick up a bit. We're bound to see it amp up in the coming issues but that doesn't negate the fact that it has been five issues already. With what is being set up here, we should be in for some great action in the next issue. It'll be interesting to see how the next portion of this story plays out and how the repercussions of their decision will affect the overall story.

The odds are stacked against the heroes. We're finally seeing them make a move. With the heroes going off in two different directions, it'll be interesting to see how the two 'missions' coincide with each other. Due to the nature of how they're carrying out their missions, it seems they should have taken a little bit more time to plan everything out. The different missions also allows for an acceptable reason to have different artists on this issue. There are still some interesting aspects of the story taking place. It just feels, with the different directions of the story, it's starting to go all over the place. There will be some repercussions to see in the following issues. I have no idea what's coming up and that's a good thing.

There's only one more issue and there's no telling what will happen next. This series has been taking turns left and right. This gives the story a feeling of anything goes but it's also making it feel like it's just all over the place. Some of the actions feel too out of character but you have to try to remember that this is a desperate time for the survivors of the attack against the Marvel Universe. Despite the ups and downs of this series, there is a deep feeling of wanting to know and see how everything will be wrapped up. Bendis is showing that he's not afraid to shake up the foundation of the Marvel Universe. Soon we will see the results.

AGE OF ULTRON is a book you can't look away from. There's been a lot going on and we can't help but wonder how it's all going to end to resolve it all. Bendis is giving us a chance to see the characters re-imagined and placed in crazy situations. Brandon Peterson's art manages to capture the different feel of these versions as well as cram the craziness that takes place towards the end. This is definitely a series that will have to be revisited once it's complete. I have no idea how this will all end. It does feel as if we're getting a lot of different things thrown at us. That can be a good thing. This series isn't exactly following the normal formula. Despite any reservations, I am still completely on board to see what's going to happen next.

Will AGE OF ULTRON change everything? It appears that it will. There has been some debate over the direction and purpose of certain elements of this series. We now see where it's been leading to. Brian Michael Bendis has opened the door to future storytelling possibilities in the Marvel Universe. That is the important thing about this series. It is the key moment that will allow different stories to come. The Marvel Universe has been affected by this story. It will be interesting to see how it pays off. You have to commend the series for the ambitious nature it took on. Ten issues may not have been needed but I am deeply curious to see what will result from Bendis' story.

If you've read any comic from James Robinson in the past, that likely won't even prepare you for this book. Robinson lets it all out (literally) and tells the semi-autobiographical story of a low point in his life. Packed with raw emotions and a heaping serving of profanity, nudity, and drug usage, this is a comic pretty much unlike any you've seen. There will be moments that will shock you as well as ones that will make you laugh. Greg Hinkle's art is brilliant. A fantastic look at James' world is being set up in this issue. You will see things you never thought you'd see. There are some bold and gutsy things being done here. You'll be entertained in way most comics can't. This is a different sort of comic and that's a great thing to have on the store shelves.

I'll admit, I was a little unsure about this comic when I first heard the premise. Having read the first two issues, I fully appreciate the layers to the story. We may have a man and an android here but you can feel the beginning of something happening. What exactly is what we'll have to wait and see. Vaughn and Luna make this far more than it seems and you can see the inner struggle Alex is going through with life and the fact that he now has a lifelike female android, without that message being pounded over your head. This is definitely an intriguing story that we'll be keeping our eye on.

You've probably read a mountain of Avengers comics, but you haven't read ones like this. Mark Waid is embracing the "All-New, All-Different" title and giving us a team that's very different from what we've seen before. There's a bit of a learning curve despite all the heroes having plenty of experience on their own. This different vibe to the team does separate it from past volumes and adds an air of mystery to the series. We're used to the team being able to seamlessly take on any problems. That's not the case here and it's part of what makes it feel fresh. Mahmud Asrar's art is refreshing as well. His art keeps getting better and better as he handles the solitary character moments along with the heavy times of action. Forget what you knew about the Avengers before. This is a new team for a new age.

Change happens all the time in comics and we are seeing a new Captain America once again. Sam Wilson is not a new character but he does bring some new ideas to the role of Cap. Rick Remender gets to play around with the new status quo and we can already see we're in for a treat with this new fighting duo. Stuart Immonen's art is a great as you would expect. The action scenes are superb and wait until you see the last page. It might be hard for some to accept change but we all know these sort of changes have a way of circling back eventually. What readers need to do is embrace the change and strap in for the ride. You never know what Rick Remender is cooking up and you won't want to miss out on the fun.

I wasn't sure if we needed another new Ghost Rider but after reading this issue, I'm sold. Felipe Smith and Tradd Moore give us exactly that, a NEW Ghost Rider. This isn't a Ghost Rider we've seen before. We get a new character from a different part of the Marvel Universe and it's all really cool to see. I've seen some have concerns over the art but the more you see, the more you'll agree it's fitting for this comic. There is a nice indie feel to this comic that, again, makes it feel different and fresh compared to past Ghost Rider stories. I like where this comic is going. I like it a lot.

If you're a fan of (almost) anyone named Hawkeye, you're going to love ALL-NEW HAWKEYE. Jeff Lemire and Ramn Prez have given us an amazing first issue issue for the new volume. If any Hawkeye fans were concerned with the new creative team taking over, they can put those away and put on their dancing shoes to celebrate the new series. While the main story focuses on Clint and Kate in the middle of a crazy plan, we are also treated to some gorgeous flashbacks with Clint and his brother, Barney. The color is split between Prez and Ian Herring and it's definitely impressive. This series will give you an all-new reason to fall in love with Hawkeye once again.

Lemire, Prez, and Herring are continuing to make this book their own. With all the hoopla over the previous volume, it's great to see this series completely stand on its own without completely disregarding what happened before. Each issue feels like I'm visiting old friends. Both the past and the present story lines are intriguing even if the jumping back and forth is sometimes distracting. If you're not reading this book, you need to fix that right away.

The Invaders are back and only James Robinson could have pulled it off. With Steve Pugh on art and Guru-eFX on colors, it's a good beginning for the new series. Robinson sets up the scenario for the characters to get back together. The threat bringing them together is not what you'd expect and that's what adds an interesting twist. We'll definitely be keeping an eye on this series to see what happens next.

James Robinson has assembled his team of Invaders. It's always fun to see a writer take on the personalities of the different characters in a team book. Part of the fun here is watching Robinson's take on the different characters and anytime we get to see Namor's arrogance, you know it's going to be a party. Along with seeing Robinson write the different personalities, we get to see Steve Pugh's take on the different characters. The Invaders might be in over their heads. Robinson is raising the suspense and leaves us hanging until the next issue.

If you're looking for a lot of comic for your money, this is a title you'll want to check out. With the many All-New Marvel Now! titles coming out, this will give you a good idea what you can expect with some. The $5.99 is more than you might be used to paying for a single comic but we are talking fifty pages of fresh new content. With so many different stories by a lot of creators, there's bound to be plenty for you to enjoy. Get on board now to find some of your new favorite comics coming out soon.

There's a new Wolverine in town. The former X-23 has stepped up into the role of her deceased mentor. Tom Taylor throws us into the action and shows us what Laura can do. David Lopez and David Navarrot do a fantastic job with the art and the two styles work nicely in the context of the story. Nathan Fairbairn's colors sets the right tone within moments of serenity and the fast-paced action sequences. This was one of the All-New, All-Different Marvel series I was most looking forward to and we're off to an extraordinary start. I can't wait to see more. We have an interesting story being set up and you won't be able to resist being curious to see where Taylor takes things. This may not be the 'Wolverine' you were expecting but you'll fall in love with her, if you haven't already.

Tom Taylor is taking X-23 to the next level. Laura has come a long way since she was first introduced in 2004. Having her take on the Wolverine mantle is allowing her to step up and you can see her outlook on things changing in a way. There's a great feel in the characterization in the art along with some cool action sequences. You'll love the nice twist and cliffhanger at the end and it'll will make you do a Darth Vader impression ("Nooooooooooooo!") when you discover you have to wait until the next issue to find out what's going to happen. I never thought I'd love X-23 as the Wolverine this much. Things are about to get pretty nuts.

ALL-NEW WOLVERINE has become one of my favorite titles under the All-New, All-Different Marvel banner. I just can't get enough of this book.

All-New Wolverine Annual #1 is my favorite book this week. We get a delightful meeting between Wolverine and Spider-Gwen. Taylor, Takara, and Lopes are on point with the story. The crux of the plot passes by a little quickly, and the resolution to tie up the self-contained story feels a little convenient. Regardless, it's an enjoyable issue. Even if you're unfamiliar with the characters, you can easily dive into the story. Do yourself a favor and buy the issue. Maybe you should even buy two issues to had off to a friend to try to convert them into reading comics.

We're off to a good start. This has been a title I've been deeply curious about. Unfortunately the wait of what the original X-Men from the past think about the future isn't fully explored here. That's not a major problem as this issue does set up the situation and moves Cyclops story forward from last week. It's also a good place for new readers to jump in. They may have missed recent events but there is enough set up here to explain things without simply repeating everything for older readers. It feels we're on the verge of some crazy things happening in the X-Men Universe.

What would you do if you could visit your future self? That's a question with serious repercussions when it comes to the original X-Men. We know that in the Marvel Universe you're not supposed to be able to travel in time without creating an alternate reality but Brian Michael Bendis may have found a way around this. As I read each page, I found myself reading slower and slower. I simply did not want the issue to end. There is so much to see and expect with the young X-Men making their way to the present. There are so many reactions from both sides we have to look forward to. You'll even find yourself a little surprised at seeing some of the emotion present in this issue. For the young X-Men, seeing their future is a heavy burden and watching Bendis and Immonen unfold the story is something I can't get enough of.

Bendis and Immonen are on a roll. Having the series come out twice a month may have been a little hard on the wallet but it's great because having to wait a full month for the next issue would be unbearable. This may not be the X-Men we're used to reading but Bendis is mapping out an incredible ride that is taking the X-Men in a new direction.

David Marquez jumps on the series for the next three issues and it's a welcomed sight to see his art here. Along with Marte Gracia's colors, we get great visuals with the suspense of the story. Even though the series is still setting things up for the young mutants, this is what I want to see. The interaction with others and seeing their reactions is what is selling me on this. We don't have any of the present day Cyclops story but that is totally fine with me. This is a series I'm glad comes out twice a month. Having to wait a full month until the next issue would be too much.

ALL-NEW X-MEN continues to be one of my favorite Marvel NOW! titles. Even when an issue feels like there isn't an incredible amount that happens, you'll find yourself hanging onto every panel and piece of dialogue. I hate to think that at some point, this series has to come to an end. We can't have the young X-Men around forever. That's part of what makes everything so volatile. There's simply no telling what might happen next. Bendis keeps delivering issue after issue and David Marquez does a great job depicting all the characters, young and old. This is indeed a series I'm extremely thankful for the twice-a-month schedule. I can't get enough.

I can't get enough of ALL-NEW X-MEN. Stuart Immonent returns and we get to see the team in action under Kitty Pryde's guidance. Seeing the X-Men from the past try to adjust to today is a gives an interesting perspective on just how much the X-Men comics have changed. We're still seeing the young X-Men adjust to the present but there are huge seeds being planted that will kick the series into high gear. With Mystique and Sabretooth hatching a new scheme and the incident that happens at the end, next issue will give those clamoring for more action something to chew on.

ALL-NEW X-MEN continues to be one of my favorite Marvel NOW! series. There is something about the innocence of the younger X-Men forced to deal with the craziness of the current time period. Throughout everything, you can't help but wonder what effects this will have on everything. It's part of what keeps you on the edge of you seat. We know there a crossover coming in the Fall so, more than ever, you'll want to keep a close eye on what's going on. Brian Michael Bendis' portrayal of young Jean Grey and Kitty Pryde is enough to warm my heart. These are two of my favorite X-Men characters and seeing them together reminds me of Kitty's first appearance when their roles were reversed. Stuart Immonen adds to Bendis' writing by making everything look so good. There have been some great runs in the X-Men's history and this just might be my favorite one in recent years.

I can't get enough of this series. Bendis and Immonen continue to make this series a blast. In an issue that pulls back the action, we still get so much story. The meeting of the young X-Men and the Uncanny Avengers opens up some great interactions and that's what's so fun about this series. Mystique and her crew are still up to their usual shenanigans but it's more about the potential explosive nature of the young X-Men being in the present. This is exactly the amount of good times and storytelling I want in my X-Men comics.

It's a new X-Men event but this is off to a tremendous start. Reading this story reminds me of that feeling when I was a kid and first started reading X-Men comics. There's a sense of wonder and excitement. I am completely on board with this.

I've said it before and I'll say it again, Battle of the Atom has become one of my favorite crossover events. There's so much craziness and twists that you're never quite sure what Brian Michael Bendis is going to throw at us next. Just when you think the story would begin to wind down to some big epic conclusion, we're still seeing the story being set up. Stuart Immonen has become one of my favorite X-Men artists with his work on ALL-NEW X-MEN. The little details he gives in the characters' expressions fits perfectly with Bendis' script and the subtle humor sprinkled in. I can't wait for the next chapter and thankfully we won't have to wait long.

It's time for the next chapter for the original X-Men. Brian Bendis and Stuart Immonen are taking the team (and Kitty Pryde) in a new direction and there's no telling what will happen next. Bendis moves the story forward while continuing to flesh out these characters, adding to what we already know about them. These are no longer simply the "original" X-Men. Bendis is evolving them further due to the new experiences they are facing. The setting may have changed for the characters but we're still going to get the same old fun that Bendis has been delivering since this series began.

The All-New X-Men might just be getting used to their new situation with Cyclops' team of mutants but things are about to change in big ways. X-23 being thrown into the mix could spice things up and battle the Purifiers never is a good thing for the team. Brian Michael Bendis balances some slightly dark moments with the humor we've grown to love. The use of two different artists unfortunately makes the flow of the story a little jarring. We have a young team of X-Men and we'll see if they're ready to take on this latest incarnation of the Purifiers.

Who would have thought Brian Michael Bendis and Stuart Immonen would bring the evil X-Men from the future back so soon? Just as the X-Men were surprised, we could almost say the same. Bendis makes the perfect argument to bring these characters back and they have a big advantage over the X-Men. This makes for some great action. Immonens art has become synonymous with these characters in this title and its always a blast to see his art. Theres no telling what Bendis will throw at the X-Men next and thats just one thing I love about this title. I cant wait to see what happens after that last page.

The X-Men have been involved in a big cosmic event with the Guardians of the Galaxy and others. Returning to Earth, they get the chance to unwind a little, Brian Michael Bendis style. Bendis has a knack for allowing the characters to live and breath like humans. It also allows for some growth in the characters as well as a big revelation that has everyone online talking. The revelation of an original X-Men being gay can be a big deal for several reasons. But it's also not the main focus of the issue. While we'll have to wait and see how this character's allowed to progress from here, Bendis also sets up a new thread with the introduction of the Utopians. Mahmud Asrar's art keeps getting better. His take on the team and his depiction of their expressions is gold. Pick up the issue for the reason everyone is talking on and on about but also check out the other developments happening around the characters.

It's not often I read a comic and have to stop to take it all in. The story of Eva Bell is both fantastic and tragic. Brian Michael Bendis has taken the concept of time traveling to add some huge character development to Eva. There's no going back to who she was before. Even if you read the first part of the story in UNCANNY X-MEN ANNUAL #1, you won't be prepared for Andrea Sorrentino's art and Marcelo Maiolo's colors. The art here will make you want to weep with joy. This comic is more than just a read; it's an experience.

This is a pretty great FREE COMIC BOOK DAY issue. There's a lot to see. All our questions may not be answered but as a sneak peek to what's coming up, you'll definitely want to find out more about what's going to happen with the Avengers and Inhumans. It's a quality issue for a "free" comic. We get new (and important) content from Mark Waid, Charles Soule, Mahmud Asrar, and Brandon Peterson. If you have any interest in either of these teams and what's in store for them after SECRET WARS, you won't want to miss this. Make sure you visit your local comic shop to grab an issue. And be sure to thank them as well.

All Star Batman is off to a great start, and you'll be on the edge of your seat waiting for the next chapter.

For a character that's been around close to 80 years, we've seen countless different stories take place. Scott Snyder has been writing the character for the past few years, yet he keeps finding new ways to approach the storytelling. Snyder and Romita are delivering a high-action story with different twists and turns. The back-up story gives us more on Duke Thomas and continues to flesh him out. If you want a Batman story crammed with action where he's taken out of his element, this is the one for you.

Looking back at this arc, Snyder and Romita have delivered an over-the-top and action-filled adventure. This isn't your typical Batman story, and that's a good thing. Snyder set up a lot, and Romita cut loose with each scene. I actually found myself going back and looking at each page, panel by panel. People have different opinions on Romita's art, but I find it fascinating looking over the different areas of detail contain within each panel.

Jimmy Palmiotti and Justin Gray have done it again. We've seen some strange gatefold covers on the DC Comics this month but this one makes sense. We've seen crazy crossovers before but the appearance of Booster Gold here opens up more questions rather than answer the ones since his disappearance in the New 52. Watching the events unfold is just one of the charming aspects of this issue. In an age where Western comics may not be at the top of readers' lists, Palmiotti and Gray show us that doesn't have to be the case. With the various connections we're seeing to the modern continuity, you get a feeling of anything goes even though certain events still need to be set in stone. Moritat continues to capture the vibe of the series. There's no telling what may happen next and that's the fun part of the series.

It's the end of an era. Jimmy Palmiotti and Justin Gray have chronicled over one hundred issues with Jonah Hex. It's a sad day to see it all come to an end. Normally I have difficulty reading the final issue of certain series but I felt I owed it to the team and character to ride this final adventure with them. Joined by Darwyn Cooke and Dave Stewart, there is a visual feast to go along with this last story. There has been someone masquerading as Hex and Jonah has to decided if he'll do something about that. The ending may not be what some might want. I felt it was fitting considering how long the series has hovered on cancellation. It's been a fight to get this far and the Jonah Hex fans have stuck it out. This is our chance to bid farewell to Jonah. Hopefully someday we'll see his return.

Fialkov's stories aren't ones you should take lightly. He's known for throwing major curveballs at readers. This issue sets up what comes next for the kid superhero that almost had it all. He may have made mistakes and is trying to avoid new ones. That doesn't mean he won't make more.

Joshua Hale Fialkov continues to make an unlikable character interesting. Alpha is becoming an interesting character as we see how he continues to grow and each situation he ends up in. It's a little hard to say what will happen next for Alpha. Part of the charm in this title is the fact that he doesn't fully know what he's doing and is capable of making huge mistakes. The art shines at times but others it takes a little while to get used to. We get an interesting twist at the end that continues to add to the suspense Fialkov is creating. I never thought I'd want to read more ALPHA but it's all Fialkov's fault for making him interesting.

I don't want to like Alpha. Josh Fialkov is not giving me a choice. He's made Alpha the perfect flawed character. He had it all and messed up"big time. This is sort of a story of redemption but also one of a teenage superhero. There is a sense of innocence and discovery as Alpha tries to take the opportunity for a second chance. Balancing between being a superhero and a normal teenager isn't easy and Fialkov captures it perfectly. Nuno Plati's art has absolutely grown on me. I was on the fence before but I really like the atmosphere and feeling this book now generates. Fialkov puts Alpha in a tough situation at the end and we get a big cliffhanger. I will definitely be eagerly awaiting the next issue.

ALPHA: BIG TIME has been a pleasant surprise. It shouldn't really have been a surprise how much I liked this since Josh Fialkov was the writer. The idea of taking a character most readers couldn't really stand and center a miniseries around him was remarkable. The fact that Fialkov made us care so much and packed so much story and emotion into this series is a testament to his writing. With this being the final issue, you owe it to yourself to read this entire series. It's refreshing to see a different sort of teenage superhero story. Nuno Plati's art added another layer to Fialkov's storytelling. It's unfortunate that this is the end. Hopefully we'll get to see more on the horrific circumstances Fialkov has unleashed.

Spider-Island is almost here. The official prelude issue continues the tiny snippets we've been seeing in the back up stories and Spider-Man's life is about to be turned upside down. His life has been going very smoothly lately and we all know that can't last forever. Spider-Man has been evolving as a character since Slott began BIG TIME and it's great seeing the changes the character makes to further himself along. He's made more changes in the past year than he has in the last decade. He is going to need those changes if he hopes to survive what is coming up in Spider-Island. It was also great to see that a big deal wasn't made out of the fact that this is the 666th issue. I really want to get excited over the possibility at the end but I'm afraid of getting my hopes up if it's just a big tease.

Spider-Island is here! The idea of New York City gaining spider-powers felt crazy but the execution by Dan Slott and Humberto Ramos pays off. After months of tiny bits of set up, the action begins. Spider-Man will be in over his head when he discovers he's powers are no longer as unique as he thought. Slott brings in many guest stars and cameos but they don't feel forced. Slott sets up the action and Ramos knocks it out of the park. Ramos' art delivers what you would want and expect in a Spider-Man 'event.' This issue was so fun to read. We have big action, great art and lots of opportunities for craziness and excitement in the first part of this story. Slott has big plans in mind and you can see them about to explode onto the pages of Amazing Spider-Man.

This is a Spider-Man event like no other. The action is heating up as all of New York City is falling under the Jackal and the Queen's plan. Seeing other Marvel heroes play a role in a Spider-Man story has been fun yet with all the chapters, mini-series and one-shots so far, it feels like it's starting to drag on a little. Thankfully there are some big revelations here. If you've been waiting for some answers to a couple big questions, you will get them here. Also, there some big changes happening for a couple characters. Dan Slott's epic story with Humberto Ramos' frantic art will leave you gasping for air as you try to take it all in. With everything that happens here, it's hard to imagine what will happen next. Get ready to hold onto your hats.

Spider-Island is over. That could be a good or a bad thing. The entire story had a big epic 'event' feel without forcing readers to check out a bunch of other titles or force readers of other titles to read this. Slot poured a lot of action into this arc and Ramos managed to keep pace by drawing all the chaotic scenes, even if there were some moments some of the characters felt a little off. Spider-Man has come a long way and it's been great seeing the other heroes get involved in a giant Spider-Man-focused story. The ending is nicely executed but opens the door for some exploration in some of the repercussions of this story. It's hard to imagine how Slott will top this huge storyline. He's set the bar pretty high for himself. My biggest fanboy wish is we'll get to see at least a little more of what we had on the cover.

I was happy with the way Spider-Island ended but this epilogue adds so much more to the story. It's great to see the actual aftermath after a major story to add that tiny bit of realism. Too many times we see mass destruction only to find everything nice and neat in the next issue. Slott's dialogue adds some more realism as we get to see people's reactions to what's going on. The humor might be a little too much as characters are talking about quirks readers are aware of with other characters' designs. With most epilogues, the issues just wrap everything up and not much else happens. We do get to see the clean up and there might not be a ton of actual action going on but there is a lot to see here. It's a little strange seeing Caselli's art after Humberto Ramos handled all of Spider-Island but that's not a complaint. Caselli always captures the mood of characters through their expressions and Frank Martin's color art really adds a something to the already great artwork.

You'll be surprised at how much action there is despite Spider-Man not going toe to toe with a costumed bad guy. Because this is part 1 of 2, you have an idea how things might end next issue. Regardless, Slott and Ramos give us a Spider-Man story with a great refreshing twist. It's a fun read with no hints as to how Spidey can possibly save the day.

It's hard to believe the "Point One" issues are still coming out. The idea of using this numbering system is unnecessary. The idea is for this to be a good jumping on point but you have to wonder how many 'new' readers would even be aware. Slapping a big "New Jumping On Point" on the cover would work better. In this issue's defense, it does serve to introduce new readers to the idea of Horizon Labs, the place Peter Parker now works. It's not all recap information for regular readers as we get more on the mysterious "Number Six" working at the lab (who we discovered his identity during Spider-Island). It's a fun issue and the action is self-contained. There are some developments and new plots created but after the previous two-part time travel story, it's more of a way for us to catch our breath. Dan Slott, Chris Yost and Matthew Clark deliver a Spider-Man story that new and old readers can easily enjoy.

Spider-Man in space. It's not often I get to write that. To make it better, he's not going alone. Spider-Man is known for his humor and quips and having someone to bounce them off of usually makes the story fun and entertaining. There is a reason for Spider-Man needing to take a trip to space. This is the beginning of a bigger story. We're just getting a tease of what's to come. Slott is joined once again by Chris Yost and the two seem to work as well as Spider-Man and his guest star, in a good way, of course. We get a typical cliffhanger that will make you eager for the next issue and the situation will place Spider-Man in yet another situation we haven't seen a million times. Spider-Man has simply been a great deal of fun to read lately and I can't wait for the next issue.

Things aren't looking good for Spider-Man. He's forced to continue fighting in a different manner. No longer can he just rely on his spider-powers, now we're seeing him use his brains more and more. It's great to see a change in the overall battle against the Sinister Six but feels a little odd that Spider-Man needs the Avengers and scientists at Horizon Lab to help him out. Doc Ock (and Dan Slott) have raised the stakes in this confrontation and it's not over yet. Humberto Ramos' art is always fun to see but with his style differing from Caselli's in the past two issues, it creates a distraction. Slott is doing big things in AMAZING SPIDER-MAN and I don't know how he's going to top this story.

If you love Spider-Man, you're going to love this oversized anniversary issue. If you just 'like' Spider-Man, you will totally dig the new developments here with the idea of Spider-Man taking on Alpha as a sidekick. If you don't like Spider-Man...you should still check out what changes we may be seeing with the character. Spider-Man has been around for fifty years now. This issue marks a new chapter in his career.

There's still time to place your bet on whether or not Spider-Man will keep Alpha as a sidekick (not that we condone gambling). Alpha is not a likable character and he's not supposed to be. After fifty years, Dan Slott has given Spider-Man a new set of responsibilities (and I don't mean he's been writing for fifty years). Humberto Ramos handles the big action scenes along with Peter in his civilian guise with ease. This is a turning point for Spider-Man and this series. If you haven't been reading Spider-Man lately for some reason, now is a great time to start. Actually, be sure to pick up the last issue. You won't regret it.

I was unsure of the idea of Spider-Man having a sidekick but should have known better than to doubt Dan Slott. The story of Alpha and the abuse of his powers gave us a different look at superheroes in the Marvel Universe. There are some repercussions we'll be seeing and the way the events play out makes this story better than I could have imagined. The final page brought a huge smile to my face as well. Dan Slott and Humberto Ramos deliver a crazy fun issue. There is plenty of action and guest stars. We're seeing changes in Spider-Man's life and there definitely is a dark cloud on the horizon.

There is plenty of crazy action contained in this single issue. Peter's identity is on the line, suspicion is being aroused at Horizon Labs, Kingpin is involved and we have two Hobgoblins thrown into the mix. It's a bad day to be Spider-Man but a great day for Spider-Man readers. Dan Slott and Christos Gage are making sure THE AMAZING SPIDER-MAN goes out with a bang. There is even some hints about the upcoming story after this one. I never thought I could enjoy so much Spider-Man action without the Spider-Man costume even being present. I actually feel bad for readers that aren't keeping up with THE AMAZING SPIDER-MAN. They are indeed missing out on the fun.

Hobgoblin vs Hobgoblin vs Peter Parker. Talk about an exciting comic. Peter is in quite a mess and is probably hoping his series ended before this one. Dan Slott and Christos Gage have set up quite the story with Peter, stuck without being able to put on his costume to fight, going up against the Kingpin, the Hand and two Hobgoblins. Action, adventure and fun times are here. I should note that as a big Hobgoblin fan, this was a joy to read. There are a lot of seeds being planted, not just for the next few issues but beyond as well. Part of me is sad to know this series is ending but with Slott still on board for SUPERIOR SPIDER-MAN, you'll want to pay close attention to these final issues. What it comes down to is if you're looking for a really cool Spider-Man action-packed issue, this is it.

I am not thrilled with what happens here but I love what Dan Slott is doing. It's always been clear he's having a blast writing Spider-Man and you'll want to see what happens here and what will happen next. This is more than a mere stunt. This is the evolution of the character and big change that will set the stage for the next chapter of Spider-Man. Do yourself a favor and read this issue. Try not to spoil it for others, even if spoilers are already out there. Let them read it and be shocked for themselves. Years from now you'll ask others, "Do you remember where you were when you read AMAZING SPIDER-MAN #698?"

Dan Slot continues to pack in the excitement and suspense while giving us some of the answers we've been looking for. You'll get sucked into the story and will almost forget that the series is ending in just one more issue. There's a lot riding on the events here and the feeling of absolutely not knowing how Slott will end this story is great. You'll be counting down the days until issue #700.Note: Be sure to read ASM #700 BEFORE reading AVENGING SPIDER-MAN #15.1 on December 26!!

Do you think you know who Morbius is? Whether you're a fan of the character or unsure what to think of him, this issue will win you over. Set as a bit of a prelude to his upcoming solo series, the focus is placed on who he is and what the story of his past is. Joe Keatinge writes the story as he lays out the groundwork for his series. Dan Slott is on hand as well to help bridge the gap between last issue and issue #700. We have some great art to showcase Morbius' past but it would have been nice to have a little more Spider-Man in this Spider-Man comic.Note: Be sure to read AMAZING SPIDER-MAN #700 before reading AVENGING SPIDER-MAN #15.1 on December 26.

The final issue of THE AMAZING SPIDER-MAN has arrived. Spider-Man as we know him is no more. Comic book readers will be the first to complain if we keep getting the same old stories but if a major change is done to our beloved characters, we'll also complain. This is a chance to see something different. Dan Slott has cooked up a crazy idea and now we'll get to see what happens next in SUPERIOR SPIDER-MAN. I am on board to see how this plays out. I'll be reading to see what the next chapter holds for Spider-Man and the supporting cast. Of course Spider-Man fans will not be pleased with what happens. But we do see a great battle that really shows what Spider-Man is about. He is one of the greatest heroes and this issue is a testament to that. It's a fight fought on a different sort of battlefield. This is a story you'll remember for years to come. It does change everything.

This is the type of stories we should have in comic book annuals. We don't need annual stories that tie into other comics (or annuals) and we don't need back up stories and layouts on Peter's apartment (and similar features we've seen in the past). This is a stand alone oversized story with an interesting twist. The unfortunate nature of being a stand alone story is you don't get a sense that we'll be seeing any repercussions from this issue pop up later. Lee Garbett does a great job on Brian Reed's script. It's unfortunate that we had a recent story centered around messing around with time but this story had a nice twist to it. If you're looking for a good stand alone story that delves into who Peter Parker/Spider-Man is, you definitely need to check this out.

Spider-Man is back to be Amazing. Dan Slott's SUPERIOR SPIDER-MAN run will remain as one of our favorites since it shook up Spider-Man to his core. As we witness the next chapter in Spidey's life unfold, there will be several repercussions for him to deal with. Having Humberto Ramos' art helped to usher in the feeling of the return of the AMAZING Spider-Man because of his previous work on the series. This issue is like a celebration as we are treated to several short back up stories that further set the stage for what's coming in Spider-Man's life. Peter Parker may be back but he won't have very long to celebrate. He has a big mess to clean up and several angry foes that will be gunning for him.

Lets take a trip back to the early days of Spider-Mans career. Not a simple retelling of stories weve already seen, this series sets to fill in some of the gaps between AMAZING FANTASY #15 and AMAZING SPIDER-MAN #1 (Volume 1). With Dan Slott writing, you cant help but wonder how much will come into play in the newly relaunched AMAZING SPIDER-MAN series. Ramn Perezs art matches the tone of the time period nicely and it could be very interesting to see what happens to Spider-Man in this transitionary stage. If you think you know the whole story behind Spider-Mans early days, it turns out theres more than you realized.

Spider-Man is back and it looks like the old Parker luck is still around. Peter Parker is back as Spider-Man and Dan Slott is making sure it's not simply more of the same old thing we saw before. It's great to see the beginnings of the next chapter in Spider-Man's life unfold. Slott is setting the stage for new problems for Spidey as well as fleshing out the world around him. Humberto Ramos' art adds a fun and frantic feel to the story but also lets you feel the emotion the characters are feeling. Black Cat has declared Spider-Man her enemy and it feels a bit much but you can't argue that it'll be interesting to see how this story continues to develop. Dan Slott is keeping us on our toes and you never know what will happen next.

Spider-Man has a new enemy and her name is Black Cat. Even though Spider-Man has discovered Silk, a woman who was bitten by the same radioactive spider he was moments afterwards, her help still won't be enough to stop this hate-filled Felicia Hardy. Having an amped up Electro on her side makes Black Cat even more deadly. Black Cat's hatred and attitude feels like a bit much but it is making an interesting story, combined with the other subplots thrown in. Dan Slott is keeping the fun and excitement going and Humberto Ramos' art captures the vibe of the story nicely. There's a big cliffhanger but we'll just assume he'll manage to get out of it next issue.

Peter Parker is back as Spider-Man and there's no slowing down. Dan Slott and Humberto Ramos are throwing plenty of action and sticky situations Peter's way. There's big things happening in Spider-Man's life and no telling where things will go next. Spider-Man is unmasked, Black Cat continues her attack against Spider-Man and Peter Parker, and there's more with Silk. Dan Slott is not slowing down when it comes to Spider-Man. There's so much going on, as soon as you finish reading, you'll need to stop to catch your breath.

Spider-Verse is here! Dan Slott has already shown that this is not going to be a walk in the park for Spider-Man or the other versions. Dan Slott is cooking up quite the story and Olivier Coipel's art is amazing in the extended first part of the issue. We also get a back-up with art by Giuseppe Camuncoli. That gives a total of thirty-four pages for just a dollar more than the regular price. If you're a Spider-Man fan, you owe it to yourself to check out what all the excitement is about. Even if you don't like Spider-Man that much, chances are you'll find a version within that you do. Spider-Verse is definitely going to shake things up for Spider-Man's world.

We're off to an interesting new start. This may not be the Spider-Man you're used to but you'll definitely want to see what happens next. With Dan Slott, you never know what he has up his sleeves. This is Spider-Man and Peter Parker living up to their full potential.

I didn't think I was going to like this story. I didn't think it would matter or be important. I was wrong. Clearly the creative team had a huge influence on my decision to buy this without having any idea what we would get. Waid, Robinson, and Dell'Otto take us away on an incredible adventure full of action, intrigue, mystery, and even espionage. It's definitely a different kind of Spider-Man story and that's part of what I enjoyed so much. I did roll my eyes over the idea of Peter Parker having a long-lost sister but Waid and Robinson showed me it could be a great thing. Does this fit into regular continuity? Could it fit in? I absolutely hope so. This is a highly enjoyable stand alone Spider-Man story unlike what you're used to.

The moment many have wanted and waited for is here. Peter Parker and Mary Jane are once again married. Sure, it's in a Secret Wars Battleworld region but we get to see what married life is like for the two along with how they're raising their daughter. Slott takes the theme of responsibility to a new level now that Peter is a family man. The story does have a slight sudden pace but that is likely necessary due to the constraints of the size of the series. Adam Kubert's pencils and Justin Ponsor's colors make this look as great as we could hope. Spider-Man's world is often plagued by bad luck but let's hope this turns out to be a great experience for the characters and readers.

There's a new X-Men title in town and we have the makings of a grand and amazing adventure in this first arc. Jason Aaron is joined by Ed McGuinness and Marte Gracia to start off the return of Nightcrawler. We have to wonder if we truly need another X-title but this issue does make a pretty good argument. There are many X-characters hanging around and there is a great opportunity to showcase a different set of X-Men. The addition of a certain red-headed mutant does offer an interesting beginning to the series. Between Jason Aaron, Ed McGuinness and Nightcrawler, there's plenty of reasons to check this out.

Are you reading American Vampire? If so, you know or will know that this will be a great issue. If you're not reading it, you should be shunned first of all. Then you should pick up the trades and check it out. Vampire adventures that are not your typical overdone stories. Scott Snyder's storytelling is meshed beautifully with Rafael Albuquerque's gorgeous art and Dave McCaig's brilliant colors. It's a great arc and it's going to get even crazier next issue.

It's a new arc set during the fifties. We've all heard about 'perfect jumping on points' and this definitely is one. It's hard to think of a series reaching its twenty-second issue and suddenly thrusting a new character upon us. Snyder manages to introduce a new character with ease and within a few pages, you'll quickly find yourself fascinated by who he is and what his motivations are. Albuquerque dives right into Snyder's script and easily captures the mood and vibe of the fifties. We're left with an interesting cliffhanger and the longing to know how this arc will fit into previous stories but it's clear that it's going to be a great ride. Snyder and Albuquerque have nailed another issue. You can't help but want more.

AMERICAN VAMPIRE continues to be a remarkable series. Scott Snyder has taken the idea of vampires and keeps adding new twists to the whole idea. Calvin Poole is a fascinating character and one that I'd love to see more of. Unfortunately there was a change in the art from Part 1 and it didn't feel as if it was on the same level as Roger Cruz's. We do have a great story and final page that just might leave your jaw on the floor.

AMERICAN VAMPIRE is one of my favorite series. Just when I think I couldn't possibly like it more than I already do, Scott Snyder manages to make it happen. I almost envy those that haven't been reading this series because they have the luxury of being able to read the entire series from the beginning. Having Rafael Albuquerque back for this arc is perfect timing. There are major things happening here and the characters and series as a whole is moving to new places. It feels like it's been a long exciting and crazy journey since the characters first appeared. This is so much more than a simple vampire comic. This is something comic book readers owe to themselves to check out.

It's hard to believe it's been just over two years since this series has started. With the flashback we get here, it feels as if so much time has gone by. Scott Snyder keeps bringing each arc to a different place with a different feel to each story. Rafael Albuquerque's art goes along with the story so perfectly that it's hard to imagine this issue drawn by anyone else. There is plenty of subterfuge, action and twists here to make long time readers thrilled to be reading such a great series. Each issue delivers more yet makes you hunger for the next issue.

If you've been reading this series, you know how good each and every issue is. If you haven't been, shame on you. Get your rear in gear and buy the trades to get yourself caught up. When I've spoken to those that haven't been reading the series, it's usually because they've dismissed it as "just a comic about vampires." AMERICAN VAMPIRE is so much more than that. Scott Snyder has been crafting a tale that has been spanning decades and taking us in directions we wouldn't normally expect. With reoccurring characters and situation after situation that completely varies, this is a comic that will always capture your attention. When Rafael Albuquerque is on board with the art, it's a feast for your eyes as well. Each month when a new issue comes out, I know I'm in for a treat.

Scott Snyder and Rafael Albuquerque wrap up 'The Blacklist.' It's been a heavy arc with twists and turns. You'll find yourself not knowing what might happen on the next page and you'll definitely want to savor each one. AMERICAN VAMPIRE is more than just a comic about vampires. You'll want to read this because we get great stories each month. Albuquerque's art adds a special taste to the tale and you'll appreciate each scene. Dave McCaig's colors wrap up the entire package with a brilliant and lovely bow. I can't imagine what's coming up next. I actually don't want to know right now. I just want to take in what happened this issue and recuperate from the excitement and emotion.

I hate the idea of this series going on hiatus. Because it is completely on Scott Snyder's terms, we simply have to accept it. It takes a wise person to know how much they are capable of without compromising the series if he tried to take on too much or get someone else to help out. Snyder's story with Albuquerque's art and McCaig's colors makes for a beautiful package. We get some glimpses of past and future events that will make you wonder and wait with anticipation for whatever may come next. There will be a void in my monthly reading without these series but perhaps it will give others the opportunity to catch up on the series if they hadn't been keeping up. It's been a great thirty four issues. Time for a breather as we prepare for the next chapter.

This is a mini-series by Scott Snyder and Dustin Nguyen set in Snyder's AMERICAN VAMPIRE universe. There really isn't much else to say. Focusing on the vampire hunting group, the Vassals of the Morning Star, we get a different focus for the series and the implications of what happens here is mind boggling for the series. I love the fact that Snyder somehow manages to write these AV mini-series while still delivering great stories in the main series as well as BATMAN. This series is an example of what Vertigo is about and knows how to do. It's a great issue and it's only the beginning.

If you've been reading AMERICAN VAMPIRE, you should be overjoyed to know it's back and just as great as you hoped it would be. Scott Snyder and Rafael Albuquerque are back with a vengeance. You've had time to get caught up and now is the time for the next chapter to begin. This is a series that has been consistent from the beginning and it's great to see the entire story moving forward, amping up our excitement even further.

AMERICAN VAMPIRE continues to surprise and impress with each issue. I've said it several times when reviewing previous issues, it's surprising to have a vampire series that can be so impressive and fresh. Scott Snyder keeps giving us new situations and takes the story in different directions which keeps us hooked. If that wasn't enough, Rafael Albuquerque's art and Dave McCaig's colors will blow you away. How often do we get such a compelling story with superb art? AMERICAN VAMPIRE never disappoints.

We're seeing some dark times for Pearl Jones and Skinner Sweet in the pages of AMERICAN VAMPIRE. Scott Snyder and Rafael Albuquerque have introduced an even deadlier threat as we witness the havoc and destruction unfold. Snyder's story and Albuquerque's art form the perfect combination and the action keeps you on the edge of your seat. You know things are bad for your character when they're forced to work with their former enemy against something even worse. The only bad thing is having to wait for the next issue to see what's going to happen next.

Don't you hate it when you get a comic and you zip right through it? That won't be the case here. Scott Snyder decided he had so much story to tell, half of the issue is in prose. Detailing pages from an old miner's journal, we get a vivid description of past events tied to the current timeline and get to actually use our imagination in visualizing the creepy events going on. There is some great art by Matias Bergara with color by Dave McCaig. This issue might not pick up directly from the previous but it's an incredibly ambitious installment and you more than get your money's worth in terms of story.

It's an American Vampire book. I have not been let down so far. While the issue starts out a little light on the action, discovering more about other types of vampires and the hints to a bigger world of them boggles my mind. There's the potential for other miniseries focussing on the other types (but my wallet begs to please let this not be the case). Scott Snyder makes writing comics seem easy. He always has a big elaborate story going on and you can't help but wonder if the main characters will survive.

Justin Gray, Jimmy Palmiotti and Amanda Conner are back together again. This is Wonder Woman as you've wanted to see her. The combination of storytelling accompanied by Conner's art and Mounts' colors make this such a wonderful package. As a "digital first" comic, it's well worth the $0.99 price tag. We can assume the entire three-issue series will become available in printed form later but you're not going to want to wait. If you're a fan of the creators or Wonder Woman, you need to check this out. Digital comics like this make me happy I bought the new iPad.

This marks the beginning of the next phase in the Buffy universe. Finding out what Angel and Faith have been up to since Season 8 ended. Angel has always had to live with the bad things he did as Angelus and the end of Season 8 added more evil deeds under his belt. Angel has a lot to atone for. Whether or not that will be the direction of this series remains to be seen. Christos Gage captures the voice of the characters. They all sound and act as Buffy fans would expect. Rebekah Isaacs' art captures the look (and essence) that we've come to expect in the series. The ending promises some big things coming and it's clear that this won't be a simple walk in the park for Angel and Faith.

I was excited for this book but didn't realize how excited I was until I started reading it. Regardless of how much you know about Angela before this issue or before she came to the Marvel Universe, you'll gain an appreciation for who she is and what she can do. Thanks to Kieron Gillen and Marguerite Bennett, we get a great sense of her character and what makes her who she is. The art in the main story by Phil Jimenez and the flashback art by Stephanie Hans will knock your socks off. If you're not wearing socks, maybe you should put some on before reading the issue. If you're wondering whether or not to add this series to your pull list, just stop and add it already.

ANGELA: ASGARD'S ASSASSIN is shaping up to be a book full of action and characterization. We're finding out more about the potential of Angela's character and what she's all about. Kieron Gillen is crafting a fun and exciting tale with Angela going up against certain Asgardians and the flashback sequences by Gillen and Bennett add even more to who Angela is. While the flashback is informative, it did feel a little out of place in the time and moment it was told. If you've been craving some good old fashioned and bombastic action and storytelling, you need to check out what ANGELA is all about.

Get ready to be able to say you are now an Ant-Man fan. Nick Spencer is taking the (often) down-on-his-luck Scott Lang and showing us what hes willing to do to be Ant-Man as well as a father. New and old fans can jump into this series that sets up Scotts new direction and place in the Marvel Universe. While this series is rooted in the Marvel Universe, there is a nice distinct feel to the book making it accessible to all readers. Ramon Rosanas art is great at depicting both the human moments as well as the action sequences involving a guy that can shrink down and communicate with ants. Youll be pleasANTly surprised by how much youll enjoy this book.

Ant-Man may be a small hero but this book is showing he has a big heart. Scott Lang has been around for some time now but Nick Spencer is really shaping him up in a new town with a new mission in a great way. It's clear you can't be too sure what to expect in this series. Ramon Rosanas and Jordan Boyd's art and color gives the book a really nice and different feel from the average Marvel book. Don't let this book slip past you.

Allison Carter is a private investigator determined to catch the guy about to bring about the end of the world. We're seeing some interesting characters and creatures and Sid Kotian is really fleshing out this world. Unfortunately depiction and treatment of Al's character appears to be sinking more and more. This doesn't have to be a book focusing on a gratuitous depiction towards females. Sure, there may be some that aren't bothered or are perhaps even looking for it. The jokes are starting to sink too low which is too bad because I am curious to see how this story plays out.

Aquaman has been consistently good. This is Aquaman as he should be written. Also, it's not just issues of Aquaman kicking butt left and right, there's a genuine great story going on. The introduction of the Trench last issue and this issue is setting the stage for a grand adventure. The ocean is a vast area and you can only imagine what other unknown creatures might be out there waiting to be discovered. Geoff Johns and Ivan Reis are the perfect team for this book and Aquaman has moved to the top of the reading list each month when it's released. There's plenty of fun, adventure, violence and mystery to satisfy every comic reader.

Regardless if you've never read an Archie comic before or if you're a long time fan, Mark Waid and Fiona Staples' ARCHIE is such a delightful read. With a great mixture of of the core essence of the characters combined with a fresh and modern twist, it's easy to see why this title has risen to the top of our reading lists. Forget what you know about the Archie characters or embrace it all. Either way, you're going to dig this series.

Archie and the world of Predators. It's almost hard to believe this is real. One might expect a pure parody with the two combining but that is not the case. Alex De Campi, Fernando Ruiz, Rich Koslowski, and Jason Miller make it work completely. Capturing the essence of ARCHIE comics and giving some minor tweaks, the story is a natural meshing between the two franchises. The first issue shows us there will be blood but it also won't be an over the top slaughterfest. At least not yet. If you have any interest in the Archie characters or Predator, you'll want to check this out. This book is a brilliant execution (no pun intended).

This isn't a regular Batman comic. That's a great thing. Gerry Duggan and DC are taking what we know of Arkham Asylum and reinventing it. It might seem a little hard to accept but it has opened the door for a new direction with the concept. Batman might have an advantage with the facilities now located at Wayne Manor but placing himself inside, undercover, to solve a murder is exposing him to plenty of risks. Shawn Crystal's art is creating the right atmosphere for this series. I'm not sure where this series is going to go but I can't wait to watch it all happen.

ART OPS has skyrocketed to the top of my reading list. It's easily become one of my favorite series to read. I'm having to restrain myself from gushing on and on about how much I love the story and art. Shaun Simon, Mike Allred, Matt Brundage, and Laura Allred are creating something truly wonderful with this book. Set in a world where art can come alive, I find myself almost wishing I could go into this world just to take in all the splendor. There's a strange mix going in the story. I have no idea what's going to happen and I absolutely love that. Each issue has been like a treat or reward. You really need to do yourself a favor and get on board with this series. It's not like anything else out there. I just can't get enough.

This issue changes everything. The Top Cow universe will never be the same. "Rebirth" begins here and it's done in a way that sets up the characters for new readers but there are clearly hints that older readers won't get ticked off. You can see subtle hints that this is something that will have repercussions in the months to come. Marz planted the seeds of the 13 Artifacts years ago and it's great to see it finally come together. Having Dale Keown join in to handle the art was a great treat as well. If you're a fan of Top Cow comics or thinking of taking advantage of the "Rebirth," you'll want to get this issue so you'll be prepared for the big changes.

For a first issue, the story is quickly set up with the potential for plenty of Ash-style action. Many of the past Ash/Army of Darkness stories lacked a little heart. Steve Niles and Dennis Calero bring the franchise back to its roots. Picking up right at the end of Army of Darkness, the story simply feels like it could be the actual continuation. Calero's art captures some of Bruce Campbell's facial expressions and the colors adds an eerie touch. With a new threat and another dangerous situation, it's going to be a fun ride to see Ash gets himself out of this mess.

This is the issue everyone is talking about. It makes sense that it would get a lot of attention but the content isn't forced just to generate hype. Marjorie Liu knows how to write relationships. When it comes to a character like Northstar and actually exploring his orientation, it's surprising how long it's taken for him to come this far. And Liu is the perfect person to handle it.

I've said it before, Marjorie Liu excels in writing about characters rather than just writing about events among superheroes. She delves into the thinking and essence of who the characters are. The issue will indeed be remembered but for the wrong reasons. The real focus should be on the way the story is written rather than on only two of the characters in the issue.

With so many different X-Men titles it's great to see that Marjorie Liu's title has remained untouched. Warbird's introduction pretty much went unnoticed as far as I was concerned but the way Marjorie Liu's developed her in this series has been great. This story focusing on her has been great in fleshing her out even further. We don't see a lot of the rest of the team but you still feel their presence. There is a different sort of feel with these characters compared to the other X-titles. Let's hope this title can stay in its little corner of the X-universe. The art has an interesting style but there were some moments it became a little distracting. This isn't the end of Warbird's story. It's just the beginning.

Northstar is facing a serious situation. I'm a fan of seeing tiny/realistic details sometimes used in superhero comics. Seeing the topic of Northstar being deported because he felt he could come and go as he pleased is brilliant. Too often superheroes feel they are above the law in just about every aspect. This may be a subplot for this title but it's a great one and I can't wait to see how it plays out. The art is growing on me but Wolverine's hair looks funkier than usual.The second portion sets up the upcoming X-TERMINATION crossover with X-TREME X-MEN and AGE OF APOCALYPSE. It's a slightly odd transition but it's great to see Wolverine start to deal with AoA Nightcrawler after his betrayal in Rick Remender's UNCANNY X-FORCE. Wolverine's reaction to it and why he brings in the team to help is wonderful. I'm not always a fan of crossovers that require you to read other titles but my curiosity has been grabbed and I do want to see what happens next.

I never realized that Iceman has rarely been the center of attention in X-Men stories. As a character that has been around since the beginning of the team, it feels like writers never really fleshed him out. Marjorie Liu's take and the situation she's created is great in really showing us that there is a layer to his character we haven't really noticed before. As things progressively get worse, you start to feel uneasy as you become concerned with the fate of different characters. Liu never ceases to amaze with the way she delves into the different characters and it's always refreshing to see what she comes up with next.

Another huge event has begun. Rick Remender has been building this for a couple years now. Since the end of AVENGERS VS X-MEN and throughout UNCANNY AVENGERS, the seeds have been planted and we're now seeing the next phase for the two teams. Remender sets up plenty of action for Adam Kubert and it's a wonderful treat seeing so many characters in one book. The downside is the feeling of non-stop event after event. I haven't come around to accepting Red Skull in this fashion although it does provide for a different take on the character. This has the makings of another big story that could have a huge impact on the Marvel Universe. You won't want to miss out on what's coming up.

Axis has ended and there will be some ramifications in the Marvel Universe. Because of the nature of the story, this issue was packed with characters. The unfortunate thing is many characters and the changes they went through were not able to be fully explored. With the inevitable return to their true nature for most of the characters, you kind of wonder why some were inverted in the first place. Having so many different characters involved was key to the story but too many simply fell into the background. For some characters, the change in their attitude felt sudden. As with many recent events, the importance can be measured by what happens next. It would be great to see more on how the characters' actions while inverted affect them rather than it all be swept under the rug.

How does Steve Rogers feel about what happened to Bucky? Did he dive right into the Captain America suit? These concerns are addressed here. Because we're seeing them after the fact (and after other events in the Marvel Universe), some of the importance was taken away. Steve goes on a mission and since there was no mention, you knew the outcome. Bendis continues his interview style debrief session which is great to get a recap of events and hear how the characters actually feel. This gives them a little more humanity rather than just reading action scene after action scene. The great cover art by Alan Davis was an added treat for me as well. This was an important issue that sadly should have happened a couple months ago.

It's the return of a missing character! There may be some that frown upon this return but we all had to know it was coming. It's a matter of simply accepting this and finding out what this is going to mean for the characters affected by their absence. There definitely will be repercussions to be seen. If anyone can pull off this return, it's Bendis. He tells a serious story with plenty of his humor sprinkled in. There are some odd moments but the mystery and suspense of the (possible) return of a character is enticing. I had no idea this issue was going in this direction and am pleased to not have been spoiled. It's great to see a Marvel title continuing despite all the hubbub of Marvel NOW! There is a story to be told here and it's great to see it being played out before the series is relaunched.

The Avengers finally get to react to the attack by Wonder Man (and his team of Revengers) on the Avengers Mansion. The unfortunate delay (not sure why it took four months) takes a little of the oomph away. But the story we get is great. We now know what it takes to piss off the Avengers. Dell'Otto's art depicts this nicely and seeing their reaction is great. You'll definitely want a ring side seat for this fight. The story might be over but you get the feeling that Bendis still has more up his sleeve.

What could be better than Jonathan Hickman on AVENGERS? Add in Jerome Opena, Dean White and a strong roster and you know we can expect great things here. The Avengers comics have a history of big things happening but lately there has been moments where the stories have been hit or miss. Hickman hits the ground running. The idea of 'going bigger' is a great concept and fits with the changing nature of the Marvel Universe. We need to see some changes otherwise the stories will become stagnant. We're not seeing a relaunch or reboot of things but a nice ambitious start to a new chapter. I have no idea where Hickman is going to take the team and series and I can't wait to find out.

Even when the Avengers are relaxing after a big event, you can count on the action to kick in. We see what the team does next and what Captain America and Iron Man think about the team's roster as well as where they'll go next. This might be a new jumping on point but you'll still want to know who all the characters are in order to fully appreciate all the interaction between them. There are a lot of great artists in this issue and it doesn't come across as cluttered or disjointed. You will get a sense of the big scope that Jonathan Hickman has been carving out with the Avengers. It's a great time to be an Avengers fan.

When I reviewed one of the New Avengers issue with this group of 'Avengers' from 1959, I stated that I would absolutely love to see more. That's what we get here. This is a team that isn't a team. Most of them can't stand each other and they are only in it for the money. Seeing what could possibly bring the team back together is what will make this an enjoyable series. I'm not the biggest Howard Chaykin fan in regards to his art but the story hooks you in and his style fits the mood of the time period. I'm still a little hesitant with the team calling themselves 'Avengers' years before the Avengers we know formed. But bring on the secret action that we never knew happened before. Something big is happening for the team to need to get back together and you know the action is going to get intense.

Is this the evolution of the Avengers? Spiraling out of AGE OF ULTRON, we're seeing the after effects of Hank Pym's results to save...everything. With a bunch of A.I. type characters, one who has even had a slight upgrade as well as a freaking Doombot, this series is bound to be nutso. I don't know what Sam Humphries has planned but I cannot wait to find out. The art is pretty solid with a couple minor hiccups. This issue was just a blast to read and it I think this is going to become a new favorite series.

AVENGERS A.I. continues it's charming nature. Sam Humphries Avengers consisting of characters with artificial intelligence is carving out its own little corner of the Marvel Universe. The threat between the new A.I. and SHIELD is escalating and there is a foreboding feeling that keeps you glued. I enjoy Andr Lima Arajo's art more with each issue. I have no idea where this series is going and I love it. Being so separate from the rest of the Marvel Universe is a little risky but it allows the characters and Humphries to do their own thing. If you're looking for a different kind of Avengers entrenched in their own adventures, you need to check this out.

Have you been reading AVENGERS A.I.? This is an Avengers title unlike any you've seen before. Humphries is giving us something unique and I just can't look away. I was unsure about some of the character involved but each has their own level of charm and are evolving more and more with each issue. Valerio Schiti's art is great and he really gets to cut loose in this issue. Do yourself a favor and read this series. It's as smooth as butter and spicy enough satisfy your reading desires.

INHUMANITY has hit the Marvel Universe and this team of Avengers is on hand to help out. Sam Humphries handles tying this series into the bigger event well and we get some humorous (and glorious) moments (like Doombot vs Daredevil) as well as a close look at how the average person could be affected by the Terrigen Mists that have been unleashed. This continues to be my favorite Avengers title due to the more intimate feel of the team yet this issue shows they are fully capable of playing with the rest of the Marvel Universe.

AVENGERS A.I. continues to be a fun romp through a different corner of the Marvel Universe. We do see some ties to other Avengers books with the appearance of characters from UNCANNY AVENGERS and AVENGERS. Sam Humphries is weaving an intriguing web with the moral debate over the rights to the new artificial intelligence lifeforms. Simply put, if you're looking for a separate Avengers title not tied into a bunch of other books, this is definitely one you should check out. Plus Doombot is the best.

Let's get ready to...watch young characters die. This is not going to be a heartfelt book. If you're a fan of the character brought in here, you'll be happy to see them in a comic but you're bound to get irate if they are here simply to be killed off. The idea of sixteen characters being gathered by Arcade and forced to fight or kill each other seems unlikely. But there will be death here. It will be gruesome. This isn't the typical Avengers book you're used to. We have to believe that there will be more to this comic than just watching kids get killed. The hook is not knowing what's going to happen. This book has a lot of unknowns to it. Dennis Hopeless is going to have to tread carefully as readers are bound to make angry comments when they see characters they love get killed.

Are people still outraged over this title? In a nice change of pace, we get to see what is happening in the outside world as the kidnapped super-powered children continue their fight to the death. As these kids remain missing, there would have to be adults or fellow teammates wondering what happened to them. Christos Gage returns to tell the story in a fitting fashion since he has written several of them in the pages of AVENGERS ACADEMY. While the story does make sense, it almost felt as if it was a last minute decision to give us this story now rather than show any indication before. It also feels as if it's interrupting the flow the main story a bit. There is still no telling how this story will end. With stories like this one, we can feel assured that there definitely has been some thought put into the overall idea.

Is the end near? The series started off with a glimpse of "Day 29" and we are just about there. This issue features the return of Dennis Hopeless and Kev Walker as they give us some backstory on Bloodstone and set things up to coincide with the very first issue. While it is important to humanize these characters and the simple conversations do play a role in that, it just didn't feel like very much happened in this issue. We are waiting for answers or closure and we have one more issue to wait (most likely) before hitting that Day 29 moment. What comes after that, remains to be seen. This series continues to be an enigma of sorts. It's a series I want to root for as it seems there is more going on that it appears. Aside from the ending, this issue left me with the feeling that not much really happened.

Something big is about to happen in the Marvel Universe. With a prologue that lights the fuse on a big powder keg, you won't want to miss the groundwork being laid out here. Nick Spencer and Mark Bagley set up the idea of Pleasant hill nicely, and you can see just how bad things could get. What made this issue really enjoyable was having no idea what to expect and reading the reveal or twist before getting spoiled. Find out what Pleasant Hill is all about. Once you visit, you'll probably find you can't leave this special place. It'll be very very interesting to see how this complete story plays out. Get ready for some serious stuff about to be unleashed upon the Marvel Universe.

"It all begins here." We've heard that before but actually, it really isn't true. This is something that has been building up for sometime. Whether it was intentional or not, this issue is building on everything that has happened in the pages of AVENGERS since Disassembled as well as Second Coming in the X-Men comics. Now we're about to see Marvel's two big teams clash and seeing the execution of making them come to such drastic blows is going to be very interesting.

This is the beginning of Marvel's huge event. Keep in mind that the high score given to this comic reflects the nature of the issue and what it represents. AVENGERS VS. X-MEN is going to be a blast to read. Is it going to change the face of the comic book industry? Probably not. Is it going to be crammed to the gills with pure superhero vs. superhero fun and excitement? You bet.

I was happy and excited with the first issue. I felt the reasoning and explanation as to why they would be fighting made sense. Here, once the action begins, there are some nice scenes but many of them leaving you wanting more artistically and storywise. I was bothered by a lot of little things and they simply added up. There is progress in the story. Part of me feared it would simply be an entire series of fight after fight. The Phoenix Force does play a part of the story here but some of this week's and last week's tie-ins felt like they had better stories than the way it all unfolded in this issue. I am still eager to read the rest of this series and all the tie-ins. After the first issue, my expectations were raised higher than I thought possible and this issue just didn't meet them.

We're four issues in and we haven't quite gotten anywhere just yet. We're seeing more battles and betrayals. There is a sense that you won't know what's going to happen next. The Phoenix Force is getting closer and that will definitely change the direction of where this series will go. Hickman handling the script here adds to the characterization of Wolverine and where his motivations lie. The problem comes when we get panels and pages of several characters fighting each other at different locations on the planet. We don't really see how these battles start or how they end because those will be featured in the AVX side series. It's meant to give us a bigger feel in that there is so much going on but it also takes away from the flow of the series.

If you've been waiting for something to happen in AVENGERS VS. X-MEN, this is the issue for you. We've been getting a lot of set up along with glimpses of battles throughout the first five issues. Now that the 'first act' has come to an end, we're seeing a progression in the storyline. There is some crazy events unfolding here, and you might also find yourself surprised by how the issue ends. I may have been having high expectations but I've found my excitement lessening with each issue of battles. Now I feel we have something to look forward to. This is a moment that should be noted in the history of the X-Men and Avengers. This issue should be read in order to prepare for the rest of the series.

This is starting to feel like a completely different series for several reasons. Besides the change in art from John Romita Jr. to Olivier Coipel, the structure of the series has changed. Thankfully we're not seeing random battle after battle between members of both teams and it's back to feeling like there is more of a story going on instead of just seeing match ups that fans may have been wanting to see.

I'm finding myself getting glued to this series. There was excitement when the first issue came out but soon we were overwhelmed with the feeling that not a lot was actually happening. Now that five members of the X-Men have a portion of the Phoenix Force, it's a whole new game. The Avengers are being hunted and imprisoned. Of course with Captain America leading the underdogs and Scarlet Witch on hand keeps the excitement elevated. On a sort of unrelated note, with the announcement of "Marvel Now," where there'll new jumping on points, etc, you can't help but wonder if events from this story will lead to that. This is what we've been waiting for in this series. There is major poop getting thrown at the fan. If you're going to have a major crossover with a lot of hype, it's great to see some pay off. I'm back on board with AvX and can't wait to see what's going to happen next.

Who wants to see Namor unleash his Phoenix powers against the Avengers? The fighting is starting to feel more intense as it's past time to take off the kid gloves. We had a turning point when members of the X-Men got a portion of the Phoenix Force. They appeared to be doing good things but Namor's actions could be seen as yet another turning point. We know all this is going to explode but unfortunately that gives the story a feeling of sitting around waiting for it to happen. Adam Kubert's art is great. He has plenty of characters and action to draw. But the art can't carry the entire issue. We know something is coming. There are some developments here. We'll have to wait to see what happens next.It's time for the Avengers to start fighting back. I have a feeling that final fight is going to be something.

The end is near. Based on the cover, it doesn't look good for Spider-Man. There are some changes happening with minor developments popping up but we're still for the inevitable conclusion. Are were simply getting burnt out on these big events? This has all the makings of a epic-type story but it feels too close to other recent comic book 'events.' Things are getting ugly as the Phoenix Force is showing its true colors and we'll have to see who will survive and how the Marvel Universe may possibly be changed. That will be the key to the success of this series, in my opinion. I want something big to happen with lasting repercussions rather than everything return to normal. Jason Aaron's script allows the dialogue to flow smoothly while Adam Kubert's art just looks so dang good. Three more issues to go.

We are so close to the end. There has been many times throughout the series where it's felt as if the story could have been told quicker. We are seeing more of an actual confrontation here and the action gets frantic and intense. Adam Kubert's art is a joy to see as we get to see our favorite characters depicted in such a visually appealing fashion. As things heat up, there is the question of why Cyclops with a huge portion of the Phoenix Force can't or isn't able to finish things immediately. As the story heats up, there is a sudden abrupt ending. It is fitting for the evolution of the story here but also made the issue feel as if the last couple pages were rushed in order to set things up for the next issue. With two issues left, it will be interesting to see where this is all going to go. There are lots of great visuals and actions here but now we have to wait four weeks to find out what happens next.

For those complaining that we haven't been seeing any big outcomes or repercussions, this is the issue you've been waiting for. With only one issue left after this, the action is heating up and you can see the end is near. With the bits of information we've seen about the changes happening once Marvel NOW! begins, you can get a sense of how this series is leading up to that. There are still some unknowns that will make you want to come back for the conclusion here. Bendis is great at delivering dialogue so you know there's going to be plenty for the characters to say and Olivier Coipel's art makes this a visual treat. You can't have a comic book event like this without casualties. It's unfortunate that Marvel released a spoiler on the death but chances are word would get out regardless. The stakes have been raised. The fighting in AVENGERS VS. X-MEN just got real. You'll want to see the full battle to appreciate how it all went down.

From the gigantic fight scenes to the debates and conversations along with the birth of a new era, we finally get some consequences and closure at the same time. Seeing how the ramifications play out will be fun. As for the big change that occurs, all I'll say is it's about time. Make sure you're on hand to see how everything does change. You think you know the Marvel Universe? It's time to get to know it all over again.

I love this format. This isn't necessarily something I'd want to see used in every comic as it could get to be too much but it's great seeing it here.

The story may not be crucial to the overall series but it was a blast to read, especially in this format. I could be wrong and the events here may play into the last couple issues but I"m still waiting to see what happened to (the other) Nova (Sam) from the first Infinite comic. It's a little strange how we get plenty of detail in this story but the main story almost seems to focus more on fight after fight. This story does a great job in showing how good the Infinite comics can be. It may not be quite as stellar as the first two but it's a great alternative when reading through a stack of comics.

Any week an issue of The Children's Crusade comes out is a happy week. Allan Heinberg and Jim Cheung shine with each issue as we wait to see what the future holds for Scarlet Witch. The story and art compel you to turn each page. There are so many characters in this issue but it doesn't feel like their appearances are forced. There is a lot riding on the outcome of this series, I only hope each change we are seeing will not be magically reverted so that the status quo existing before this series began is left when the mini-series concludes. It's not just the Avengers' future that will be affected but pretty much all of the Marvel Universe. The only downside is the bi-monthly schedule makes it hard to wait but that wait is indeed worth it.

Each issue in this series has been a blast. The return of Scarlet Witch is something that will impact the Avengers, Young Avengers, X-Men and pretty much the entire Marvel Universe. There is a feeling that things will end with a return to the status quo before this series started but of all the characters involved, it's hard to think there won't be a lasting effect. Heinberg and Cheung are phenomenal together. Having to wait two months in between issues is hard but with each new one, you forget all about it. We still have two issues left and the way things progress here, I can't imagine how it can get any more insane.

AVENGERS: CHILDREN'S CRUSADE was a great story that did justice to all the characters involved. I can't wait to read the next story on the same level of awesomeness as this one.

I have to admit, I'm becoming more and more a fan of the OGN releases from Marvel. It's a great feeling being able to read a complete comic story all contained in one collection. Rick Remender has a powerhouse creative team handling the art and colors and pulls out all the stops with a story jam-packed with Avengers. Without being locked into the continuity of the regular titles, this is a book anyone can dive into and devour. The action builds up to a crazy level and despite seeing a bit of different Ultron stories recently and currently, this one will remind you just why he is an incredibly dangerous foe for the Avengers. Get ready to sit back and enjoy an epic Avengers story. This is what an Original Graphic Novel should be like.

It's a great-looking book with the promise of some major butt-kicking in the issues to come. If there were any doubts over Loeb and McGuinness bringing back Cable, everyone can rest at ease now. It felt a little short but it could just be that my appetite has been whetted and now I need more.

We're over halfway through the miniseries. Cable has already fought Falcon, Captain America and Iron Man. Cable's fight with Red Hulk is providing some interesting tidbits along with the flashback (to the future before he arrived in the present and...you get the idea) where we find out how Cable returned and where he got his weapons. We all love a good superhero vs. superhero fight but this is starting to feel a little forced. Cable is desperate and perhaps not thinking rationally but it's almost too much. It will be interesting to see how the events here will fully lead into AVENGERS VS. X-MEN and what Cable's final (?) fate will be.

AVENGERS VS X-MEN may be over but there are still consequences to look at and deal with. Some may question whether or not this is necessary but with the number of civilians that died, it's important that this isn't just ignored. We have to hope that there won't be a neat and tidy ending for Cyclops at the end of this series. You have to wonder if there'll ever be an answer as to whether or not 'Cyclops was right.'

There were parts of this story that were a little hard to swallow. We're seeing some decisions and changes being made. In some ways it feels out of character but it's also what has been developing for the last few years. The different and looser art style compared to previous issues made it a little awkward. It's understandable why the decision was made to use different artists in keeping the weekly schedule. If this is meant to be the finale in AVX, it's a little bittersweet. How this plays out in the Marvel NOW! titles will be something to watch for.

This is an issue about some of the fights during AVENGERS VS. X-MEN. Plain and simple, that's what you get. There are no illusions that more will be contained. What it does do is flesh out the action seen in AVENGERS VS. X-MEN #2. There was a lot that happened in that issue and because many of the battles took place within one panel, there wasn't a complete feeling when reading the issue. Here we get to see what happened between the panels and pages. With Jason Aaron, Adam Kubert, Kathryn Immonen and Stuart Immonen on board, you know there is some quality to the two battles. The slight lack of continuity is frustrating and it will be hard to judge each issue as it will mainly rely on which characters are featured.

Everyone should read Axe Cop. The notion of a child writing and coming up with crazy ideas is still fun. Just when you think you have an idea what might or could happen in the story, something even more absurd results. This is a comic to read for the pure joy of it. You won't often read a comic of this nature and it's great to have the opportunity to do so. Comics can often get too serious and it's important to have a variety and have the option of reading something fun and entertaining. If you've never read Axe Cop before, you need to rectify that immediately.

Hobgoblin may have started out as a Green Goblin clone but he has long since proven he is his own character. With the different versions and variations we've seen over the year, Hobgoblin as a motivational speaker promoting others to become heroes is pretty crazy yet you'll be hooked from the first page. Kevin Shinick does a great job showing how Kingsley is adapting to the new status quo in the Marvel Universe and Javier Rodriguez's art and colors are perfect for this. It's unfortunate the series is only three-issues but hopefully each one will be jam-packed with fun and excitement. I just want more and more of this.

Barbara Gordon should be a character that kicks all sorts of ass and that's exactly what she does in this issue. We've been seeing a bit of a roller coaster ride as she's been getting back into the swing of things since recovering from being shot and paralyzed. This is the Barbara I want to see. Gail Simone does a great job showing the inner struggle in coming to terms and facing her demons and the Joker. She was a victim once and that was the last time. We've all been waiting for round two of Barbara vs Joker and this is just the beginning of that. The art is a mix of being really great throughout most of the issue with a couple moments it falls flat a little. You would think the return of the Joker would be a bad thing for Batgirl but it's showing that she is ready fully deal with what happened and is now ready to take on anyone that gets in her way.

Ray Fawkes takes over and we get to see Batgirl thrown into some heated action. As she takes on Firebug, her brother, James Jr, continues to plot her demise. It's a crazy game of cat-and-mouse mixed in with some fallout from BATMAN INCORPORATED #8. We get a nice outside view of the tragic events which leaves you craving more. It's great seeing a superhero comic where the hero actually shows signs of being in a fight. With Firebug being the main threat in the issue, it almost feels like his story is getting in the way as we want to see more on James Jr or on the fallout. The stage is being set and we should have an interesting showdown next issue.

There's a new direction for Barbara Gordon. Batgirl has moved to a new town and because of certain events, she even makes herself a great-looking new costume. This makes a great jumping on point for new readers and doesn't ignore past events. You can feel the vibe of the story trying to reach a younger and hipper crowd. It's definitely an interesting change for the book but does feel like a little too much at time. Don't be fooled into thinking this is being geared towards youngsters. There are still some more adult themes going on. You will want to check this out to see the changes. The book was good before but you can feel a different sort of energy pulsing through the pages.

While not being fully on board with the notion of the FUTURES END stories, this is one that caught me by surprise. Gail Simone knows and cares about the Barbara Gordon character. She ends her run on the series but showing us a possible future and puts her through the wringer. Usually future stories are full of despair but Simone's take on Batgirl and her legacy offers some hope. Along with Javier Garron's art, we get some cool designs and you can't help but want to see more of this corner of the "five years from now" timeline. The events of this story may never come to be but you'll definitely want to see what Gail Simone has given us. You'll definitely want to thank her the next time you see her at a convention.

This is the last issue of Batman...until September 21. There's no need to get hung up on the change in numbering. The Batman stories will continue. Because Bat-events are said to carry over into the "New 52" universe, this issue doesn't put an end to the characters's story. Instead, we get a celebration and look back at the key moments that defined all the Batmans and Robins. If you haven't been keeping up on Batman and want to know the core of their story, you get it here. Let's just hope that too much doesn't change next month to make this issue null and void.

Have you ever watched the Adam West Batman TV show? If so, you absolutely need to read this comic. Jeff Parker and Jonathan Case succeed on capturing the spirit and essence of the show. They deliver a fun comic filled with great art, story and action. If you're not familiar with the show, you can absolutely still enjoy the comic. You might scratch your head a little but you will still dig it. It's comics like this that make the Digital First comics a success. You get instant fun and excitement. Just make sure you use the guided viewing option.

If you've been reading the Batman '66 comics or have watched episodes of the show, there's no question whether or not you should check this out. Kevin Smith and Ralph Garman have captured the feel and tone of the television show and fans will love seeing Green Hornet and Kato within the pages. Ty Templeton perfectly captures the look of the characters as well. It's a fun story but clearly geared towards those that love or are familiar with the show. Others may not appreciate the essence of what this is. Smith and Garman even did a live reading on Smith's Batman podcast that 's worth listening to (if you don't mind the occasional bits of foul language). This shows that comic books can still be fun.

Having all our comics interrupted by a zero issue might have seemed like a bad idea but this issue makes you wish it could last for more than a month. We thought we knew all about Bruce's days before becoming a crime fighter in his YEAR ONE days but Scott Snyder manages to give us a story that goes above and beyond what you would expect from this time. The kicker is the situation Bruce puts himself in and who he ends up confronting. Getting an early look at these characters along with Jim Gordon's take makes you hunger for a separate series showing us all the detail from this time. Scott Snyder and Greg Capullo continue their winning streak of great issue after great issue. Throw in an amazing back up by James Tynion IV and Andy Clarke, this is the kind of issue Batman fans want.

Reading this issue made me giddy as a kid reading comics for the first time. With Snyder, you know there is so much underneath the surface and even if you can't see what's there, knowing that they're there will amp up your level of excitement. Readers that have never picked up a Batman issue can easily step in here and know what's going on. It's great for both new and old readers. Neither should feel frustration as the issue appeals to both. I could go on some more but I think I'll just give the issue another read instead.

Snyder often crams in hidden details and plotlines in the story that you don't realize until you go back months later. Batman is a great character but somehow Scott and Greg are making him even greater. Without even coming close to reading the rest of the comics this week, I can easily say this is my pick of the week. It's just that good. The story is building up and it's going to explode like an atomic bomb.

A new adversary, a new mystery, action, detective work and revelations and a cliffhanger is all crammed into this comic. Snyder and Capullo do a superb job deliver another great issue. This issue doesn't have as much action as issue #2 but there is a lot going on. Batman is supposed the world's greatest detective and we get to see some of that detective work. The idea that a secret organization could have existed in Gotham for decades without Batman having any knowledge is almost absurd but incredibly scary at the same time. Batman is discovering that he doesn't have all the answers. He can't always be prepared for everything. This is a new type of Batman story. It's a great ride that you're going to want to sit back and savor every tiny bit. Reading this series just makes me happy to be a Batman fan.

Scott Snyder and Greg Capullo are taking us and Batman to a place he's never been before. Reading each issue is like walking on thin ice. There is so much intensity sitting beneath the surface. We have been seeing things that Batman hasn't, such as the Talon and possibility of the Court of Owls. This is something Batman refuses to accept and you know it's going to explode in his face, just as the tripwire did at the end of the last issue. Batman is so focused and sure he knows what's going on, the thought, for us readers, that he could actually be wrong is a scary one.

It's not often I find myself re-reading a comic book more than three times before even writing a review. Even the best issues rarely get a second read immediately. This is an issue of BATMAN you won't soon forget. Snyder and Capullo are putting Batman through the ringer and you almost get the impression that they despise the character (which they don't). The first time I read this, I had a heavy feeling in my chest. It was a feeling where I had to let out my breath and say "whoah..." It's an added treat that the issue is laid out in an unconventional manner.

BATMAN by Scott Snyder and Greg Capullo is becoming an addictive read. You'll find yourself slowly savoring each and every detail on the pages and will regret when the final page arrives. Since Snyder and Capullo joined forces on this series in "The New 52," each issues has been amazing. I've found myself saying, "This is the best issue Snyder has written. There's no way he can top this." And then what happens? He somehow delivers an issue that's more of a killer the next month.

Month after month Scott Snyder delivers an amazing issue of BATMAN. At the end, we're left in awe and start to wonder, is it possible for him to top this issue? The answer since the "New 52" started is 'yes.' Snyder has been unraveling an epic story. Reading each panel carefully gives the feeling as if there are layers and layers hidden beneath the surface. Each issue of BATMAN is what comic books are supposed to be about. The story exists on so many levels. You'll find yourself reading and re-reading each issue to make sure you don't miss any hidden clues. And then you'll find yourself re-reading the past issues once again to see that there were many clues in plain site. To make it all even better, Capullo attacks each page with his art. The worst part of this issue is it means we have to wait another whole month for the next issue.

With Snyder, the presentation, storytelling and overall presentation has been varied from issue to issue. You might think you know where the story is going to go but Snyder manages to throw curve balls at you each time.

The story continues as does the brilliance of Snyder and Capullo along with Tynion IV and Albuquerque in the back-up. Night of the Owls roars to life and we're seeing Batman fighting for his life in a way he hasn't had to before. Somehow Snyder has kept the pacing and action cranked up for the past nine issues. I've said it before and I'll say it again, Capullo is a beast when it comes to giving life to Snyder's script. As the main part of the Night of the Owls, there's a lot to see here and the back-up adds even more to an already great issue. If I was only allowed one comic to read each month, it would definitely be BATMAN.

Scott Snyder continues to deliver the insane levels of storytelling he is now known for. Reading this will open your eyes to how the entire series (since the "New 52" started) has been laid out. Whenever Snyder lays his cards out on the table, you can see and appreciate how far back the story elements go. Snyder doesn't do things for shock value or on the fly. You can really see the intricate details he puts into his stories.

Now we can finally catch our breathe. It's been a crazy ride and the action and revelations really amped things up these last couple issues. Scott Snyder made a bold move with the direction of Lincoln March. I won't comment whether or not there's a clear and definitive conclusion to his claim but there is plenty to make the argument for both sides. There was also a touching scene between Bruce and Dick that plays out nicely. The two of them have been through a lot and we don't often see them able to simply talk. The conclusion to the back up story further sheds light on the past and brings about another touching scene. There is a grand feeling of closure despite certain questions still hanging in the air. If DC ever felt they needed to cancel BATMAN, this would be a fitting and appropriate way to end the series. But clearly that can and never should happen.

Scott Snyder shows us he can tell different types of Batman stories. One thing that wasn't mentioned in order to avoid spoilers is the important message here. If nothing else, hopefully a certain sequence of events will open people's eyes.

This is off to an incredibly dark beginning. That's exactly what we'd want from a major Joker story. Don't look for an uplifting story here.

Make sure you're in a happy place when you read this issue. We've seen many incarnations of the Joker over the years. We've seen many battles between Batman and Joker. None of that can prepare you for what Scott Snyder and Greg Capullo deliver in this issue. Joker is a beast as his plans against Batman unfold. This is a cold and calculating Joker that wants one thing, to rid Batman of all his excess baggage. He wants Batman all to himself. With that notion stuck in his head, he has targeted pretty much everyone around Batman. Throw in the question of whether or not he knows Batman's secret, it's a deadly game on any levels. I don't know how Synder and Capullo (and Glapion and Plascencia) do it month after month. I don't need to know how. Just as long as it keeps happening, I'll be happy. The Joker is a vicious bastard and you'll love every minute of it.

It's hard to believe that a story stacking the odds against Batman can be so captivating. That's what Snyder does best, he sets up stories with Batman taking a beating, to remind us that he is a non-powered human. Everyone jokes how Batman should always win but Snyder shows it's not an easy task. We get to see some insight into how Batman's mind works. I can't recall seeing this sort of depth into how he thinks or reflects on a simple matter.

We're getting a lot of Joker stories though out this Death of the Family event. This is where we get to see how twisted and ruthless Joker really is. Luring Batman to Arkham Asylum is the perfect setting for what may be the final act in his crazy scheme. It's not often you feel sorry or tired for Batman. That's the feeling you get here. Scott Snyder sets up a disturbing scenario and environment and Capullo, Glapion and Plascencia do an extraordinary job of creating the visuals for it all. You almost have to wonder who is more twisted, Joker or the creators for being able to come up with the all the visuals.

Focusing on just the story told in the pages of BATMAN, this is exactly the story I'd want with Batman and Joker. Joker has done some horrible things in the past but he plays on a different level compared to villains that are simply willing to kill.

I will admit there were some deeply emotional scenes here. This made me really think over the rating for this issue. I'm not sure if I was so touched due to personal loss I'm currently going through in my family. But it does show Snyder's ability to make you feel Batman's pain.

Having the story shift back some days before the opening gives us that tease of a feeling knowing where the story is going to go but not being really sure how it will get there. Seeing Batman do more detective work is always a welcomed sight. James Tynion IV and Alex Maleev begin an interesting back up story that shows us why Batman works so well with a particular other character. Snyder and Capullo continue to show us you simply can't go wrong with BATMAN. You're always guaranteed a good time.

Batman vs. Bruce Wayne. With Greg Capullo's art and FCO Plascencia's colors, it's a visual treat. Scott Snyder has taken Clayface and taken him to another level. Unfortunately with the numerous other Bat-titles, this Clayface story felt too close after his appearance in DETECTIVE COMICS. The main story was really good as was the back up but it almost feels like we're just biding our time for the beginning of next month's Zero Year.

If there was any doubt that pulling Batman out of modern continuity and exploring his early days could work, this issue immediately proves it does. Seeing Bruce Wayne starting his career, going up against the Red Hood Gang and just the fact that some crazy stuff is going down, I can easily see this lasting eleven issues. Zero Year is off to a great start and right away, I don't want it to end. There's a deep mystery bubbling on the surface and the glimpses we get into Gotham in this time period is fascinating. Capullo, Miki and Plascencia make the visuals shine. This is not your typical Batman story and it shows. We get a great backup by Snyder, Tynion IV and Albuquerque that is highly enjoyable and makes the issue fun. Zero Year may be a visit to the past but I am on board with this being an extended stay. Snyder may have taken a risk by setting a long story in the past but it completely works. It's comics like this that make me excited to be a Batman fan.

The first chapter of Zero Year was great and you can see that it gets even better with the second. This is not just a retelling of Bruce's early days. While we do see how he started becoming the hero we know and love today, there's so much more to this story that makes it feel completely new at the same time. Every single creator involved is in top form here. You get the impression they are really putting their all into this issue. The writing, art, colors, lettering...it all looks so good. We're only in the second part and I'm already looking forward to buying this again in a hardcover format because I'm enjoying it so much. This is definitely going to be a story I will re-read over and over. It may be Batman's origin, in a way, but there's simply no telling what's going to happen next.

If you thought Zero Year couldn't get any better, you were mistaken. Scott Snyder is taking Bruce Wayne on a rough journey as he is on the verge of becoming Batman. You can see the story meticulously being laid out. We may not be used to seeing this less experienced hero but we are seeing the determination and tenacity that will shape him into the hero we know and love. A certain key scene is laid out with such extraordinary care, you'll be in awe as it plays out. Greg Capullo's art with Danny Miki's inks and FCO Plascencia's colors continue to make this a visual feast for our eyes. In the backup, Snyder, James Tynion IV and Rafael Albuquerque show us a remarkable chapter in young Bruce's life. I didn't think I could like a BATMAN comic more than I have before until I read this one. It just keeps getting better and better.

It's possible the wacky and...odd nature of the story was intentional because we're talking about the Joker. Maybe I'm missing the point. With so many Villains Month titles fighting for our dollars this month, this was a little disappointing.

With each chapter of Zero Year, I find myself surprised at how much I crave to see a story in this time period be told. This is supposed to be the main Batman title and it might be a little odd not to be taking place in the current time but that's perfectly okay with me. There is a great sense of isolation as Snyder and Capullo are able to tell the story they want to tell without having to worry about other events or crossovers. We all know Batman's origin, or at least we thought we did. Snyder shows that there is more to tell. He's giving us a story that is filling in the gaps when we didn't even realize there were these many gaps that could be filled. This is an issue you'll want to read over a few times to take in all the tiny details in the text and images to make sure you don't miss anything. Thankfully Zero Year is not over. Even with an oversized issue, I'm still craving more.

Scott Snyder's journey through Batman's memory lane continues. Zero Year shows there are still moments from Batman's early days we might not be aware of plus the fact that tweaking other moments serves to strengthen the mythos. With Greg Capullo on art and FCO Plascencia on colors, everything looks amazing. We get to see some things and people for the "first time" and revisiting the past has never been so much fun. We are also trated to a cool back up by Snyder, James Tynion IV and Andy Clarke. Zero Year is not over and I couldn't be happier. Zero Year continues to be a must-read for Bat-fans.

Zero Year continues to be a thrilling ride. With each chapter, we're discovering that we don't know everything about Batman's early years like we thought we did. Scott Snyder is carving out a new piece of history and the art team of Capullo, Miki and Plascencia is spoiling us. It's an exciting time for Batman and we're getting to see him like we don't often get to. This is the type of story you can dive into and just turn everything around you off. Zero Year is a time period I don't want to leave.

This is Batman like you've never seen. We're used to Batman being prepared for anything and able to take on anyone. We all know Scott Snyder loves Batman but, man, he is giving him the beating of a lifetime. The whole Bat-team of Capullo, Miki and Plascencia are in top form, as usual. It's great getting a different kind of Batman story. There's plenty of mysteries being laid out and revealed. Reading Zero Year has been a blast.

I didn't want to look forward to this issue. I've been trying to not get excited over the idea of BATMAN ETERNAL and I didn't want to see Zero Year interrupted. This issue offers a great tease as to the epic craziness we can expect. Big things are happening in Gotham City. It's not going to be a picnic. Scott Snyder and James Tynion IV are cruel in how they show us so much only to leave us hanging for months. If this is any indication of what we can expect in BATMAN ETERNAL, it's going to be a fun new series. It's great seeing Dustin Nguyen and Derek Fridolfs back on a regular issue. LI'L GOTHAM will be missed but you can see they're just warming up here. It'll be nice if this is just the beginning of their time in the New 52 Bat Universe. And hopefully you managed to avoid spoilers about this issue before you read it.

Oversized Zero Year issue? Yes, please! This issue really makes you appreciate the creative team. We often praise Scott Snyder for his amazing story and developments. Greg Capullo is a beast when it comes to the pencils. Danny Mikis inks and FCO Placencias colors help knock the comic out of the park. Besides being a great story, it looks fantastic. Im am completely digging Zero Year and cant wait for whats coming next. This is the kind of comic that sucks you in and makes you forget everything else around you. Despite being an oversized issue, I still want more.

Zero Year continues and Savage City is giving us and Batman a Gotham City unlike any seen before. Batman is still early into his career and it appears Riddler is more formidable than anyone thought or realized. Snyder story continues to have a big epic feel and the art and color by Capullo, Miki, and Plascencia is astounding. Some may say this doesn't feel like a typical Batman story but that's what makes it stand out. We're seeing Batman and Gotham City in a new light. Despite being set in the past, there's still no telling what will happen next. Zero Year continues to be an explosion of fun.

Some may feel Zero Year has been going on for too long. I couldnt disagree more. Too often big comic stories have a rushed feeling but here, were getting to see all aspects of the story get built up and fleshed out. Too often Batman is shown to easily solve any problem. Getting the chance to see a younger Batman has been fascinating as we get to see the man and hero he will become. Scott Snyders story has kept me captivated month after month. The art team of Greg Capullo, Danny Miki, and FCO Plascencia makes everything look so dang good. Ive wondered this before. How will they top this story next?

Zero Year, how much do I love thee? This has been a long running and fantastic story. I hate to see it end next issue. Scott Snyder, Greg Capullo, Danny Miki, and FCO Plascencia have been doing a stellar job in deliver a fantastic Batman story completely separate from everything else. With Batman, in particular, it's often difficult to see the character not pulled into other storylines and events. The showdown with the Riddler is heating up and this is yet another issue you'll want to immediately gobble up.

Batman: Zero Year comes to an end. This is the sort of story that makes you want to stand up and applaud. We've seen countless Batman origin stories throughout his seventy-five years of publication but Snyder, Capullo, Miki, and Plascencia have given us the definitive one. Zero Year is going to be a great collected story you'll want to read over and over. The entire Bat creative team have outdone themselves here. If for some reason you haven't read Zero Year, you need to fix that immediately. I can't wait to read this all over again.

Batman is back in the present and is on the hunt for an unknown killer. Anytime we get to see Batman hit the streets and use his skills to track down a threat is a treat. Scott Snyder is joined by Gerry Duggan and Matteo Scalera in bringing us this story focused on a single killer. Those that have complained about the longer story arcs should rejoice in seeing Batman get to the bottom of this mystery. Scalera's art perfectly fits the story and definitely leaves us wanting more from him. Despite the story being a self-contained one, you get a sense that there is something else going on. Don't miss out on this one.

DC Comics and Scott Snyder have managed to keep the focus of Endgame a secret for months. It's rare to be able to read a comic with a big shocking twist and not have any elements of it leaked out before you get a chance to read. Snyder and Capullo are setting up a pretty big story, even if it's only a six-issue arc. For a 'part one' issue, there's a lot going on. It's crammed with action that should bring a smile to any Bat-fan's face. The reveal at the end will make your smile grow even more. If the main story wasn't enough, we get a back up written by James Tynion IV with art by the legendary Kelley Jones. Just when you think Scott Snyder and the rest of Team Batman couldn't top the previous story they gave us, they manage to blow us away all over again.

I would say, even if you just 'like' Batman or Joker, you won't want to miss this issue. You can see and feel the enthusiasm and fun Snyder and Capullo are having on this story. Joker is back in Batman's life and Snyder is out to make sure the action and storytelling are cranked up higher than ever before. We often feel sorry for Batman when Snyder puts him through the wringer. Snyder and Capullo have been consistently delivering great and solid Batman stories. I can't help but be eager for the next issue. This story is pretty nuts and I'm having a blast reading it.

Joker is back and he's done with the jokes. We've seen Scott Snyder and Greg Capullo give us a Joker story before but now, Joker is back with a vengeance. The stakes have been raised. Gotham City has been infected and Batman is struggling to keep up with Joker's plan. With some new developments on Joker, things are about to get even worse. Scott Snyder has said he's writing this as if it was his last Joker story and you can tell. If you thought you'd seen all the Joker stories there were to tell, you haven't seen this one.

There's no letting up in the action and suspense with Endgame. Scott Snyder is not letting up with Joker's attack against Batman and Gotham City. It does indeed feel like the end is coming. Snyder is pushing the confrontation between Batman and Joker. It's hard to tell what's scarier, what Joker might do or what might become of the revelations about Joker. The art and color adds to the creepy and suspenseful mood of the story. Batman: Endgame is not a story you'll want to miss. It's already proving to be quite the game-changer.

All too often comics have an underlying feeling of being safe. The bad guys are always defeated and the good guys always win. Scott Snyder is known for beating down the beloved Batman. He puts him in situations that knock him apart so we can watch him crawl is way back to the top. We've seen many incarnations of Joker over the years but what we're seeing now is borderline disturbing. Snyder, Capullo, and the others are going all out in this arc. There's a feeling things are going to get even worse before they get better. Hopefully Batman will survive this. He has to, right? He's Batman. Don't miss this story.

Weve seen Batman fight the Joker many many times over the years but this is the fight to end all fights. There is no holding back as Jokers plan rushes to its ultimate fruition. Neither Batman nor Joker can afford to hold back. This is the stuff Bat-fans have been hungering for. Scott Snyder constantly sets the bar high for himself. Big things have been set up here and we get an epic conclusion, one most people might not expect. Greg Capullo, Danny Miki, and FCO Plascencia continue to deliver the glorious details and action the book demands. This isnt a story youll soon forget. There are repercussions and youll be haunted by some of the imagery. Snyder, the creative team, and Batman and Joker dont hold anything back.

The reports are true. We have a new Batman that operates in a completely different fashion. It's an exciting time as Scott Snyder and Greg Capullo are almost writing a brand new book with these changes. There are still some familiar elements and we all know this can't last forever. It's a risky move and I'm incredibly fascinated to see how this turns out. If you have faith in the creative team and love the idea of Batman being taken to a different level, you'll want to pick up this issue. It's BATMAN, but it's also something new for the series. I can't wait to see how this plays out.

Once again, we're getting a lot of the unknown and unexpected thrown at us. It's understandable that some readers might have difficulty accepting the current changes but Snyder and the Bat-team are showing us how it's possible to give a new take on the character without veering too far off the path we're familiar with. We're still seeing a lot of the same players. Even the scene with Alfred and a certain guest star carried loads of information for us to digest. We had about forty spectacular stories with Bruce Wayne and now Snyder, Capullo, Miki, and Plascencia are taking us down a fascinating side route. I love reading this book and having no idea what might be coming up around the corner. We're all assuming things will revert eventually but I am going to enjoy every single moment of this "new" Batman while it lasts.

BATMAN #44 is the comic you didn't realize you wanted. No one digs when we have a fill-in issue interrupted a story arc. Scott Snyder takes the idea of a fill-in to a whole new level. Joined by Brian Azzarello, Jock, and Lee Loughridge, BATMAN #44 is a superb stand alone issue which actually does tie into the current Superheavy story arc. If you've been missing Bruce as Batman and the early detective days, you just can't miss this issue. The story is heavy and will give you a slight punch in the gut but you'll love every minute of it.

After last month's flashback issue dipping into the story of Mr. Bloom, we're back in the present with Jim Gordon fighting for his life. Some may be patiently waiting for Bruce Wayne to somehow return to the bat-cowl but having a new Batman adds a new twist to the story and keeps throwing the unexpected our way. Snyder, Capullo, Miki, and Plascencia are keeping the 75+ year old character fresh but throwing different things at us. This issue does feel like it's still setting up pieces to the bigger story. We're getting closer to seeing the full wrath and capabilities of Mr. Bloom. There's no doubt things are going to get pretty crazy next issue.

The seeds of the Mr. Bloom story arc continue to be planted. Seeing him in action is the stuff of nightmares. Jim Gordon, as Batman, is definitely going to have his hands full. Seeing the further adventures of Duke Thomas as well as Bruce Wayne in his new life adds to the mystery of the arc. Scott Snyder and Greg Capullo have been shaking things up and there's no telling what they'll throw at us next.

Superheavy still has a few issues left but you can feel it all building towards an explosive ending. Scott Snyder and Greg Capullo have made me a fan of Jim Gordon as Batman. Along with Jim, we're really seeing Duke Thomas fleshed out into a great character and you can't help but be intrigued as Bruce Wayne tries to figure out what's going on. The creative team on this continues to maintain its hot streak. You'll find yourself glued to each page and cringe at the thought of having to wait to read the next part.

It's always amazing when you're pretty sure where the story is going to go or where it has to go and the creative team still manages to surprise and captivate readers. It's easy to guess what has to happen in Batman #50 but Scott Snyder is shaking up how exactly certain events will happen. Scott Snyder and James Tynion IV deliver a fantastic story that truly leaves you hungry for more. Yanick Paquette's art and Nathan Fairbairn's colors are truly amazing. We expect certain things in a Batman comic, but this book shows it doesn't always have to take a conventional route. I'm even more excited for what's coming up than I was before.

With the conclusion to Superheavy, all is almost as it should be in Gotham City. Scott Snyder and Greg Capullo have delivered another stellar issue. We have some amazing scenes and several moments that will put a big grin on your face. It's hard to think of this creative team leaving the title, just when things are returning to normal. Superheavy was a risky story, but these guys made it a completely satisfying read. This issue just goes to show us how much we'll miss seeing Snyder and Capullo together. We still have one more issue to go so the celebration is not over yet. If you haven't read Superheavy yet, you're in for a treat. Only Snyder and Capullo could make a risky story concept work in such a glorious fashion.

BATMAN #51 is the perfect ending to Scott Snyder and Greg Capullo's run. There's a bittersweet feeling as you enjoy the issue, knowing it will all be over soon. The issue does help celebrate past five years, and that's a key thing to keep in mind. Nothing lasts forever, and we've had a helluva ride for fifty-one issues. At the same time, there's a feeling of new beginnings. Exploring what Gotham is and seeing various characters planning their next schemes reassures us the city's story is far from over. We owe the creative team a huge thanks for all the great times and issues they've given us. It will be exciting to see what they'll all give us next.

How does this issue fit in with the rest of the series? It's hard to say. It is almost an epilogue of sorts. James Tynion IV delivers a fun and intriguing story with plenty of heart. Maybe it's a little upbeat for what we've had previously in this volume. That isn't necessarily a bad thing. Why not end the volume on a positive note? Perhaps it's because we just had a self-contained epilogue-type story last month, this feels a little out of place as a final story. I do like what Tynion and Rossmo do there. I'd just rather see it (and more of it) elsewhere. This issue easily stands on its own and shouldn't be missed.

nges and tweaks but Snyder gives Freeze what has been needed for a long time. As great as the story is, it's the art that prevents me from absolutely loving this issue. My expectations are high when it comes to Snyder/Batman issues and for this update with Freeze and the first new BATMAN ANNUAL #1, it should all be mind-blowing. The art is very good and fits the story well. I might be a little greedy in wanting more. We haven't seen many changes to the Batman characters in the "New 52" and Snyder shows us the advantages to being able to make these sort of updates. Mr. Freeze is now completely worthy of being a major villain in Batman's rogues gallery.

It's a wonderful thing to have an annual that has a self-contained story. Set in Arkham Asylum, Scott Snyder and Marguerite set up a long overdue story and it's about time Batman takes some responsibility for the enemies he's sent there. The new "villain" introduced might have some questionable motives but it gives us the opportunity to see Batman face a new threat. This is a slightly different Batman story than we normally see. Delving into who Batman is as he fights a villain he's not completely prepared for, the story grabs your attention and you'll definitely want to see how it all plays out.

If you've been looking for some pure Joker wackiness without being tied to a huge story event, this is the issue for you. Despite being labeled as part of Endgame, it's really more of a self-contained story that slightly leads up Joker's current standing. James Tynion IV delivers some refreshing and twisted moments in Joker's life as we see what it means to be friends with him. The art by Roge Antonio gives us a nice different take on Joker over the years. If you've been wondering what Joker's been up to when not involved in a long battle against Batman, this is an issue you'll want to check out.

The future is here for Batman and it doesn't look too good for him. In the ultimate portrayal of what lengths Bruce is willing to go to ensure his legacy lives on, we see him put it all on the line to complete a crucial part of his planning process. We get to see a beaten Batman go to great lengths and put to the test to try to make this happen. This isn't the Batman you're used to. It might only be five years in the future but Batman looks like he's been through quite a bit. If you dug the Scott Snyder/Sean Murphy story in the recent DETECTIVE COMICS #27, you'll want to check out what events may have lead to making that happen.

Greg Pak continues his ambitious beginning on this new series. For a series meant to spotlight DC's two biggest characters, you would expect nothing less. Pak is crafting a grand tale and despite being set in the past, there's absolutely no telling how this is going to end. Jae Lee's art and June Chung's colors are a thing of beauty. You can't help but be mesmerized by the character designs, especially with how majestic some appear. The story and art has such a surreal feel, you won't be able to resist getting sucked into this comic. Hopefully you won't need a passport for the journey.

This is such a gorgeous book. For a story not set in the New 52 world (at least this and last issue), Jae Lee's art does wonders. Seeing our version of Batman and Superman (or at least younger versions) interacting with the Earth 2 characters is strange and completely fascinating. Greg Pak does a superb job in showing and explaining the relationship between the Earth 2 versions of Batman and Superman with Yildiray Cinar's art. I'm not really sure where this story is going to go or how it will end but I'm totally okay with that. This is a series you just become immersed in and nothing else matters. I can't wait for the next issue.

Greg Pak and Jae Lee have given us quite a first an arc in this series. It's been a strange adventure packed with some really cool moments. You can't help but want to see more of the Earth 2 versions that Pak has fleshed out. It'll be interesting to see what Pak has planned for Superman and Batman next. Pak shows he gets who the characters are and we're in for some great stories in the coming months.

Brett Booth and Norm Rapmund join Greg Pak and bring Batman and Superman closer to the current continuity (compared to the first arc). Without having to go into detail, Pak shows us what makes them so different yet illustrates the friendship they've formed. We get an interesting change of pace in the story and having it in a horizontal format allows for the art to appear larger, thus giving us more detail to see. Although it also results in less panels overall. If you're looking for some old fashioned fun Superman/Batman story, this is shaping up to be another interesting story arc for the two.

This is the kind of story I like in an annual. If I'm going to pay more for an issue, I want to see some big action, lots of characterization, and great art. Getting to see more than just Batman and Superman fight was really cool. Greg Pak does a wonderful job capturing the essence of Superman and Batman along with Jason Todd and Supergirl. This story is enough to make you want to see more from this situation by any of the three artists. There were parts of the story that didn't quite mesh perfectly but it can easily be overlooked when you allow yourself to sit back and enjoy the ride. It's comics like this that remind you how much fun reading them can be.

This is a story you don't want to see end. I didn't think combining the characters and worlds of both Batman and the Ninja Turtles could work this well. James Tynion IV and Freddie Williams II must be having a blast working on this series because it's a blast to read. Sadly, we're now in the place where we're eagerly waiting for the next issue but also sad it's the finale of the miniseries. This is what comic book crossovers should be like. Hopefully we'll get more.

There are some very cool elements here. Nightrunner is someone I want to see more of. We can only hope that he will have a bigger role or more appearances when Batman, Inc is relaunched next year. If nothing else, the mention of the French equivalent of Arkham Asylum could open the doors to even more new villains and stories in the future. Unfortunately the issue felt more like a fill in issue. Despite the cool designs of the new villains, the art fell a little flat at times. I would have hoped for more in the final issue of this series. Nice set up for possible future stories. Let's hope we see more of Nighrunner and the Paris Arkham Asylum.

Damian is the little brat/sidekick you love to hate. As annoying as he can be, his charm is in the fact that he's a ten-year-old that can face Batman's enemies with no problem. He was raised by the League of Assassins and is the perfect little warrior. This zero issue serves to show us what his upbringing was like. We get to see the challenges he faced. It's great for fans of Damian to get to see these times but they also don't really add anything new to his character or the history that we already know. Tomasi and Gleason are deliver the goods as usual but because you already know what's going to happen and there weren't any surprises, it just feels like an extended visual telling of what we already know.

What could be better than a new Batman comic? A great Batman comic, that's what. Tomasi and Gleason have been getting better and better with each issue of BATMAN AND ROBIN and you can see that they are just warming up. If you've been waiting for some answers in this series, you will indeed get some. Batman and Damian are finding being the Dynamic Duo together isn't an easy venture just as being a father and son is equally difficult. The new villain, Nobody, is planting some seeds and you can feel them begin to bubble up beneath the surface. Batman is usually prepared for anything but he might not be prepared for what's to come. BATMAN AND ROBIN is a great example of what we want in a Batman comic.

Peter Tomasi is revving things up by creating a tremendous amount of tension between Batman and Damian. There is a great feeling that this could be the end of their partnership, despite being father and son. (If that's the case, what would it mean for the title...?) We are getting some answers and find out about Nobody's past with his father, Henri Ducard, as well as Batman. We don't have the complete picture just yet but the puzzle pieces are falling into place. BATMAN AND ROBIN is a pleasure to read each month.

Each Batman book continues to have its own feel and this is one of the great ones. The tension continues to rise with each turn of the page. The team of Batman and Robin may be in its final stages if things go according to Nobody's plans. We get to see some emotion from Batman and his son's future is at stake. The flashback to Bruce's training with Henri and Morgan Ducard sheds a new light on Batman as well. Peter Tomasi and Patrick Gleason are a dynamic duo themselves when it comes to making this series consistently great month after month.

Will Batman and Robin survive their first major battle as the Dynamic Duo in the "New 52"? We've seen a new deadly villain with Nobody. Unlike the average Batman foe, Nobody has a deeper tie to Bruce's past which gives him an edge over others. Tomasi's story set up an intense encounter and Gleason's art along with Kalisz's colors all came together in a spectacular fashion. The arc concludes in a good, if maybe slightly predictable, fashion (and there is still a follow up next issue). There will definitely be ramifications that will need to be addressed. Tomasi and Gleason have been a great team on this series which is exactly what the characters deserve. They've shown us their first act and it's going to be a long month in waiting for what they have planned next.

There has been so much going on between Batman and Damian in these first eight issues. There's been a lot of build up and we've been left wondering what will happen between the two. Last issue left off with a huge development that has to be dealt with. What's great about this series is while we get plenty of Batman-action, we're also seeing how the emotions play into his life. Batman dealing with a partner is one thing. Adding in the fact that his partner is actually his stubborn and deadly son, Batman is in unfamiliar territory. Tomasi and Gleason have delivered great issue after issue since the "New 52" started. This is the kind of comic we need to see more of. We don't often get to see this side to Batman; the emotions he keeps locked inside. It's opening the door to a new level of storytelling

We're seeing the first official crossover in the Batman books in the "New 52." Thankfully there is some cohesion between this story and BATMAN as Bruce is not able to appear here because he is more than busy in his own title. The other great thing about that is it means we get to see Damian on his own. As promised, this issue is not crucial to BATMAN and BATMAN is not crucial to this. Too many times in the past, especially with Batman crossovers, we've been forced to buy every part of the event. Here, we get to enjoy a good story with plenty of action. Lee Garbett's art do a great job standing in for Patrick Gleason's art. If this issue doesn't make you hunger for a solo Damian book, I'm not sure what will.

What makes this book feel different from BATMAN is the sense that Batman is working with others, hence the title. It's a great change of pace and gives each book a separate feel. I've complained about too many Batman books in the past but Tomasi, Gleason and Kalisz keep me wanting more each month.

Instead of BATMAN AND ROBIN, this should have ROBINS in the title as we get to see all the Robins together fighting with Batman. There is plenty of crazy action that we don't normally see in the average Batman comic. So much is going on here and Patrick Gleason captures every over the top action scene with ease. It almost feels as if there's too much going on, including the upgrade Batman gives himself but in terms of fun and enjoyment, this issue delivers. The events and outcome here may be a little extreme, even for a Batman comic but I can't deny how much fun reading this was to read.

Peter Tomasi continues the portrayal of Batman dealing with the greatest loss. We've seen Batman deal with loss before so it's great to see Tomasi actually putting him through the different stages. He also makes a bold move in having Batman take some extreme actions in trying to cope with it all. It's a little unsettling but that could be the point in seeing just how far he's willing to go. Patrick Gleason's art is top notch as usual. He manages to capture the mood and atmosphere of the characters in just the right fashion. Carrie Kelley is an interesting choice. Hopefully we'll see more development with her rather than this just be a stunt. More Red Robin would have been nice considering he is part of the title of this issue this month. The status of the Dynamic Duo may be up in the air but Tomasi and Gleason continue to prove the are a Dynamic Duo when it comes to comics.

There's nothing harder than witnessing someone dealing with grief and loss. Peter Tomasi has been delivering such heartbreaking stories involving Batman and the death of Damian. Tomasi knows how to throw the curve balls at us (just wait for the ending here). Patrick Gleason's art fully captures the essence of it all as well. Nightwing's appearance makes sense in terms of his connection to Bruce but it's unfortunate that it feels so forced, given the recent events in his title and mention of them. Now that the stages are over, we'll have to wait and see what's next. The Villains Month issue takes over in September and we'll be eagerly awaiting what's to come. (Hint, it included Two-Face).

With many of the Villains Month titles, there hasn't been too much appeal or opportunities to actually see new information. Most have been re-tellings or continuations of other stories. With a book containing the Court of Owls, there's still a lot we don't know. This secret organization that was able to bring down Batman is ripe with opportunities for more stories. James Tynion IV gives us a taste for the Court's action during several different moments in time. Jorge Lucas' art nicely captures the different time periods by making sure each feels like it's taking place during that time. This issue almost feels like a tease for more stories set in the different periods. James Tynion IV simply makes me want to read more of the Court and their history. It's always great when a superhero comic focuses more on the story over than cheap action shots. Let's hope we get to see and find out more about the Court of Owls.

Ra's al Ghul has been relatively quiet in the New 52 and it looks like he's ready to make a move. James Tynion IV fills us in on some past moments of Ra's life while also pushing the character forward into the FOREVER EVIL landscape that has exploded onto the DCU. This issue does set things up for Ra's appearance in RED HOOD AND THE OUTLAW and you'll want to see what he has planned next. Jeremy Haun's art captures Ra's essence and you get a nice visual interpretation of what he's all about. Ra's al Ghul is done sitting around and it looks like James Tynion IV has some big plans for him.

We know Batman can be obsessive and determined when it comes to certain things and finding the body of his dead son would absolutely be at the top of his list. We're finally seeing some hardcore Batman vs. Ra's al Ghul action and this is just the beginning of the upcoming Robin Rises story. Patrick Gleason delivers some intense scenes that you've likely been waiting to see for some time. It goes without saying that if you're interesting in any possible future with Damian or a possible other Robin, you won't want to miss this.

BATMAN AND ROBIN ETERNAL shows that a weekly series can be a success. James Tynion IV and Scott Snyder's story has been captivating as we get more and more revelations of the bigger story week after week. With an issue almost fully dedicated to Cassandra Cain, fans of the character can be overjoyed. The overall story has been great but there have been some moments the weekly schedule makes moments feel drawn out a little. Marcio Takara's art is perfect for a Cassandra-focused issue and Dean White's colors are top notch. We've now reached the half way point of the series and there's still a lot more for us to discover.

If you love or even like the idea of Batman Beyond, you need to check this out right now. As part of DC's Digital First series of comics, you need to be prepared to get a great next chapter of Batman Beyond for less than a buck. You can feel the passion Kyle Higgins has for the characters and universe bubbling under the surface. This may be the first issue that starts to catch us up after the series jumps forward a year but you can see there has to be loads of big things coming. Thony Silas is a great choice for the art. Both Silas and Higgins have captured the essence of the Beyond universe and are ready to take it to the next level.

Batman Beyond has always stood apart from the modern day Batman stories. The essence of the character and world was established as more than just taking Batman and the concepts and sticking them in a futuristic fashion. Kyle Higgins gets what this Universe is about and you can feel the story amping up in each chapter. Terry has gone through some changes, including working with a new partner. This evolution is one of the great things about the "2.0" continuation of the franchise. Allowing the characters and world to move forward a meet is making this series fresh and exciting. Thony Silas' art and Andrew Elder's colors sets up the tone of the story and characters nicely. If you've ever longed for more Batman Beyond stories, this is a series you need to check out. Higgins is giving us action and intrigue and each chapter reminds us why we loved the animated series so much.

Kyle Higgins sure knows how to craft a Batman Beyond story. While there is still a bigger mystery going on, this chapter is packed full of action and suspense. Fans of the series will be thrilled with what pops up and you'll be on the edge of your seat as you read through it all. Thony Silas' art is great and fits the story nicely. The great thing about the digital first format is even if you've missed out on this series before now, you can easily purchase all the previous chapters. And we'll only have to wait two weeks until the next part. With the way things end here, there's no telling what will happen next.

Rewire claimed to have killed Batman last issue. Obviously that's not the case but Kyle Higgins makes sure Terry is out of the picture. As the police make their move against Rewire, we see a nice old fashion battle that feels like a step up from the traditional futuristic Beyond fighting. There's a lot more explosions and Thony Silas' art and pacing really moves it along at a great speed. We may have a lack of Batman action in this chapter but we do get some answers, specifically about Rewire. This is definitely not one to miss. Higgins continues to keep us captivated and leaves us hanging until the next chapter.

It's great having new adventures of Batman Beyond twice a month. Kyle Higgins continues to flesh out this world and is taking the characters further by having Terry move out of Bruce's shadow. You can feel the tension in the air and there's still a lot we need to discover as the story moves forward. Thony Silas' art and Andrew Elder's colors gives each chapter a vibrant feel that makes you almost forget that this was originally an animated series. The twice-a-month format also lets the series focus on the story while also delivering great action scenes. This is an example why I love the digital first format. You don't have to wait as long for the printed version and can access it without having to leave the comfort of your home. With one more chapter left in this first arc, the next issue is bound to be crazy.

A new arc has begun and it looks like Kyle Higgins has some cool things coming. Terry still has to deal with some of the fallout from the first arc (the fact that he still has to apprehend several threats that have escaped Arkham) but we also see a great introduction to a new/old threat. The designs of this group, what we see of them, is pretty cool. Thony Silas' art is great as usual and Emilio Lopez's colors really adds a nice punch to it. As if that wasn't enough, we also get a cool Batman: The Animated Series flashback. Do yourself a favor and check this out. This issue reminds us why Batman Beyond is such a cool concept.

If I'm being honest, Man-Bat was never one of my favorite Batman villains. Seeing him in the Batman Beyond universe is something different. Kyle Higgins continues to push this timeline forward and it's great seeing the story develop further. We still don't know the full details of what happened in the year between this volume and the previous but we are seeing more details being revealed. Thony Silas captures the action and excitement and almost makes you forget this used to be an animated show. The arc isn't over yet and it's all continuing to build more and more with each chapter.

This is an issue you have to read. If you've ever read and enjoyed stories involving Dick Grayson and Barbara Gordon, you're going to want to see the talk they have in the Batman Beyond timeline. Kyle Higgins truly understands these characters. He has a great feel for who they are and seeing this interaction is exactly what you would want to see, especially if you've watched the regular animated Batman series and Batman Beyond. The art by Eric Wight and colors by Emilio Lopez will blow you away. Simply put, I loved this story.

If you've ever watched Batman Beyond or Batman: The Animated Series, you really need to be reading BATMAN BEYOND 2.0. Kyle Higgins and Alec Siegel are giving fans what they want. With the return of Phantasm, secrets behind Terry McGinnis' father's death, and revelations between Bruce and Barbara along with mention of Tim Drake's fate at the hands of the Joker, this storyline is not one to be missed. Phil Hester and Craig Rousseau are handling the art beautifully. If you haven't been reading, do yourself a favor and check it out now.

There's no need to stick to the present in the DC Universe. Kyle Higgins and Christos Gage are carrying on the tradition of the Batman Beyond characters in their latest stories first appearing digitally. Taking place one year after the previous series, we're seeing where the characters are now and there are some new developments happening. Both series capture the essence of the characters. Whether you like the idea of the digital first comics or still prefer to strictly remain with printed comics, DC is making sure you get to keep up with the latest adventures in the (possible) future of the DC Universe (or at least the Animated Universe). Don't miss out on the fun.

This is an oversized issue full of Beyond goodness. These days, $3.99 for 48 pages is a great deal. There is a Batman Beyond story by series regular Adam Beechen and art by Norm Breyfogle. There is also a Justice League Beyond story written and drawn by Derek Fridolfs and Dustin Nguyen. Both stories pick up where last year's BATMAN BEYOND story left off. There is plenty of ties to the animated series that shows the creative team knows what they're doing. While there is a ton of great art, there were a couple moments with some characters feeling a little off. Both stories are setting up plots for future stories and there is plenty of fun and excitement inside.

Bravo to Grant Morrison and Chris Burnham for giving me a second Batman title I can love each month. There's no playing around here. This comic will blow you away.

Grant Morrison continues to show us how he weaves the web of a story for Batman, Damian and Talia. By showing us more on Talia, even if there weren't many shocking/revealing moments, it made me love the character even more than before. Grant must keep all his past work in a handy nearby location as he always goes back and makes sure events that take place now can be traced back. The fact that we see when Talia actually gets her own 'secret headquarters under London' (as mentioned in BATMAN #656) was spectacular. It might be a little difficult trying to fit this series in with all the other titles (in terms of current continuity) but when the stories are this good and entertaining, it doesn't matter. This series and Snyder's BATMAN continue to deliver month after month. Readers often question what Morrison is doing but all you need to do is sit back and enjoy the ride.

We're one step closer to Grant Morrison's endgame for Batman and Batman Incorporated. After a slight break in the action in issue #2 and a delay imposed by DC, we're back to seeing the next step in Talia's plan of revenge against Batman and Damian. The world believes Robin is dead, unfortunately this something we really get to see. There's a slight feeling as if we missed an issue but the return of Bruce as Matches Malone along with the tiny details that Chris Burnham's art adds makes this an enjoyable reading experience. Plus, we get to see more Bat-Cow. BATMAN INCORPORATED feels like a ticking time bomb. You know an explosive conclusion is coming and you'll be bracing yourself for any explosions along the way.

BATMAN #666 remains a favorite issue among many Bat-fans. After the portion in BATMAN #700, it felt as if we wouln't be seeing more of this possible future again, especially with the New 52 starting up. Thankfully Grant Morrison and Chris Burnham take us on a trip back to that hellish world. It almost feels a little out of place in the middle of the Leviathan story but the fact that we get this story is not a reason to complain. It makes some sense to see it here but how great would it be to get a full miniseries set in this time period? Burnham's art and Fairbairn's colors make a good story even greater. Will this issue change the status or future for Batman and Batman Incorporated? With Grant Morrison writing, who knows. But really who cares because I want to see more of this future world. We owe Grant, Chris and everyone involved some big thanks for this fun trip.

BATMAN INCORPORATED continues to deliver the high octane action we expect from Grant Morrison and Chris Burnham. More and more we're seeing each Batman series gravitate towards their own distinct feel while maintaining some continuity. Having this subtle variety makes reading each title a different experience. We all know that Morrison's time on the series is limited and even though the fight with Talia has been going on for a while, you can feel it's all about to explode. There's no saying what Morrison has planned next and having Burnham's art to tell his stories is a great treat.

Talia al Ghul and Leviathan are not playing around with Batman. This issue shows us a slightly different side as the repercussions from last issue are shown and Batman struggles to deal with his defeat. There is a big sense of the unknown when it comes to Grant Morrison's storytelling. You feel like there's the possibility that 'anything goes.' Burnham's art captures the grittiness of the events as they unfold. There were a couple moments it felt off but the visuals and colors by Nathan Fairbairn made for some cool moments. I'm almost scared to read the next issue but there's no way I won't read it as soon as it's out. Batman may have misjudged what Talia is capable of.

The moment teased in issue #1 is finally here. We get a good issue showcasing what Damian is capable of. Seeing his interaction with Dick Grayson makes you long for the time when they were partners. Batman's battle against Talia and Leviathan has reached its climax but it's not quite over yet. Talia makes a bold move that will cause repercussions in the rest of the Bat-titles. The comic is well laid out and the action is highlighted by the focus each panel has on the action and the colors enhance it all. A scene with Red Robin unfortunately feels a little out of place but does serve to explain where Tim is when it all hits the fan.It's not the fault of the comic but the events would have been more powerful to readers if the outcome hadn't already been announced earlier in the week. Is this the end for a certain character? We'll have to see what happens in the next issue and other Bat-titles. R.I.P. indeed little fella.

This was a great follow up to last issue. Even though the other Bat-titles have jump past these events, it's great to see what happened next. We get some rare and personal glimpses into what Bruce is going through and you can definitely feel the pain he's going through. Morrison is pushing the story and concept further along. You can see we're close to his endgame and there's the feeling it's all about to explode. Morrison and Burnham are cooking with fire and it feels like things are going to get even crazier before the story's over. You won't want to miss this issue.

The end is near. Batman is trying to end the battle against Talia and Leviathan. Things are not going according to plan for either side and you can feel the tension rising as the story approaches the conclusion. With some welcomed appearances by a couple characters, the story continues with a big feeling of everything being unpredictable. With Morrison ready to end his run, you can't tell what might happen next. It's almost enough to make you scared to see the next couple issues. Of course there's no way you'll want to miss them.

Whether you're loving Morrison's run or waiting for it to end, this issue does what we should have seen earlier, a spotlight on other Batman Incorporated characters. Chris Burnham takes over the writing duties and shows us what Jiro, the Batman of Japan is doing these days. It's a great departure from the ongoing (and slightly morbid) story dealing with Batman vs. Talia. Burnham and Jorge Lucas give a fun look at what's going on in Japan. With characters like Lady Tiger Fist and killer female biker gangs, this issue definitely fits into Morrison's world. It'd be great to see the series focus on the various different Batman Incorporated members since we don't get to see much of them. This may not be your typical BATMAN INCORPORATED story but, in my book, that's a really good thing. Hopefully we'll see more of Burnham's writing in the future.

Who hasn't wanted to see Batman cut loose a little? This issue delivers some savage Batman fighting which unfortunately doesn't last long enough. Talia's plan is continuing to unfold and you can feel the end is near. Rather than start tying up all the loose ends, Morrison actually unleashes some more surprises that will put you on the edge of your seat. There's no telling what the next issue will hold but you can bet it will be something everyone will be talking about.

Batman Incorporated was a fascinating experiment. It took Batman to different places and introduced many great characters. It's fitting that with Grant Morrison's departure, we may be seeing less of the idea as a whole (let's not forget the one-shot coming in August). This series gave us a lot of what we wanted to see. We had some endings and some beginnings. The Leviathan story felt it went on a little too long at times but there were definitely some great moments throughout. Who else is ready to re-read all the stories from the beginning once more? You'll get excited over the events here but you'll still be a little sad over seeing some things end. It's not often a story can tug on your heart-strings like this.

A focus on Man-of-Bats and Red Raven has been long overdue. The duo's time in the spotlight might be cut short as the threat of Leviathan is ramping up the dangers they are used to dealing with in their hometown. Morrison's decision to give us an inside look at the two elevates their characters to a new level. Batman may be challenged from time to time in Gotham City but with the way these two take their battle to the streets, they should be commended. Chris Burnham is always a joy to see on this title and his art style fits in perfectly with the characters and their environment. Hopefully the duo will survive so we can see more stories with them.

This is the most bizarre Batman, Incorporated issue we've had. A strange adventure set in a virtual world is highlighted by the use of digital drawings. The art takes some getting used to as it works in some parts but looks strange in other areas. Being the final issue of Batman, Incorporated until 2012's relaunch, it's disappointing that we don't have a more solid story. There were some interesting elements but it ended up feeling like more of a filler issue rather than the end of a chapter. There is one significant tease that should make you perk up and long for more of Grant on Batman. We'll just have to wait to see where any of the plots set up are dealt with. I expected more and it's unfortunate that this is how this volume ends.

The fact that this book takes place pre-New 52 gives a big sense of awkwardness. You'll want to try to overlook it but it becomes a little difficult when seeing Dick as Batman and Stephanie as Batgirl. Despite this, it's going to be a long wait until Morrison returns to the touch on what he's set up here. Leviathan Strikes was a joy to read but it would have been great if we were able to read this before 'The New 52' or at least have some explanation over bridging the gap between the two periods.

Comic fans may be on the fence when it comes to digital comics but there's no denying the quality you get with the 'digital first' comics from DC. END GAME offers a continuation of the story from the Arkham City videogame. The best thing is having Derek Fridolfs on the title since he's been involved with the ARKHAM UNHINGED digital series. Jason Shawn Alexander's art is really nice but doesn't quite fit in with the Arkham City vibe from the game. It's a little grittier but still looks great, especially with Lee Loughridge's colors. This six part weekly series will only cost you $0.99. If you've been hungering for more of the story after finishing the game and plan on playing the Harley Quinn's Revenge DLC, you'll get a kick out of reading this.

BATMAN BLACK AND WHITE has always been a showcase of remarkable Batman stories told by several creators in the industry. The nature of being told in black and white gives each story a unique feeling. These are stories that fit in anywhere and anyone can easily jump right in. The lack of color adds a different feeling to the atmosphere of the character and you really see Batman in a new light. Each story here is a blast. The only downside is having five stories resulted in some feeling a little rushed. This is a great way to see different types of stories told and lack of color (and inks in some cases) gives the story an almost raw and honest feel. Colors in comics can add an incredible amount of life to stories but there is something honest to this format. It's an honest look at who Batman is. There's no need for flashy bells and whistles because the story and art are all you need. Every Batman fan needs to experience Batman in this fashion.

There have been some debating whether or not to get into the new weekly Batman title. If you're reading the Batman titles, you won't want to miss what is starting out here. Scott Snyder, James Tynion IV, and the others are ready to shake Gotham City to its core. This won't be a series you'll want to miss. The nice thing is it appears it won't simply focus on Batman. There are so many other great characters in the Bat-Universe as well and this could be a great way to give them the focus they deserve. This issue shows promise that the series will deliver deep stories and doesn't just try to entice you with gimmicks or insane explosions, although there are some really pretty ones here. Jason Fabok's art is killer here. It's a great time to be a Batman fan.

What can we expect in BATMAN ETERNAL? This issue is a good indication. There's a lot going on and clearly a lot headed our way. You can see why this story will work nicely in a weekly format. Besides the expected appearances from team Batman, we see some new faces arrive in Gotham and that guarantees things are going to get even more intense. If you like Batman, there's no way you can avoid this series. This is just the beginning and it's clearly going to get even crazier. What else would you expect from this creative team?

Gotham City has always had its share of problems and the writers of this series are cranking them up. In the third issue of this weekly series, we're getting to see a lot happen without any lag time. There is the slight feeling that things are escalating a little too quickly but we can easily assume the writers have a lot of story to tell, which is a great thing. New characters are seen and there is a big power shift in Gotham. Batman is going to have his hands full and will definitely need some help from the rest of the Bat-Family. Don't dismiss this as a simple filler weekly comic. Things are happening in big ways. This is definitely affecting the Bat-Universe and shouldn't be missed.

This issue shows that it is definitely on in Gotham City. Batman might think he has all the answers but we're seeing a whole new game is about to begin. With the weekly schedule, it can be easy to get behind an issue or two. This one shows you why you can't let it happen. Jason Fabok's art captures each moment with brilliance. The next phase of the overall story is being presented here and you won't want to miss it. Some of the developments and betrayals feel like a bit much but we're definitely on board to see what could possibly happen next.

This issue may not have the biggest impact in the grand scope of the series but it does bring Harper further into the Bat-Family as she finally goes into action in her Bluebird guise. The events are approaching what the flash-forward events seen in BATMAN #28 and Batman is trying to get closer to finding out all the answers. The issue has three different artists. While they do work on separate character moments rather than splitting the entire issue three ways, it still is a noticeable shift in the middle of the story. If you're interested in seeing Bluebird's first outing in costume and what happens to Spoiler, you'll want to check this issue out.

Batman and Joker. Those two things alone are a selling point. Throw in the impressive creative team and the fact the two enemies have to work together, you have an interesting comic on your hands. There were some delays with this book coming out but now that it's hear, we're able to enjoy a classic feeling Batman story. Jim Lee's art over Giuseppe Camuncoli's layouts along with Alex Sinclair's colors makes this a really pretty book. The issue sets up the overall story and will leave you wanting a little more. You can definitely feel the bigger story brewing.

I am so completely sold on this series. We are witnessing the begin of Gotham City as we know it. Yes Gotham existed before the skyscrapers but we're seeing what went into the design. There is a connection with that past and the destruction going on in the present. Dick, Tim, Cassandra and Damian have to take the case and work together in order to save Gotham and the first families. While there is some crazy action that takes place, what kept me on the edge of my seat was some of dialogue between characters. There is an encompassing feel that something huge is going to happen...and it's not going to be a good thing. Simply put, it's a great story with great art. This is what a Batman comic should be about.

After two action packed issues, the story's pacing feels as if it slows down a little here. We are still getting more details on the history of Gotham City and are getting closer to getting all the answers. Dick Grayson and the other members of the Bat Family shine as each is given their own voice and place in working together without Bruce Wayne around to guide them. Reading through this story makes you wonder if all the interactions and character developments we're seeing among the characters will carry over into the new relaunch titles in September. Snyder, Higgins and Parrot do a great job capturing each character's voice and McCarthy's art is stunning except I have some minor issues with the way Tim Drake appears. Things are heating up and this issue may be giving us a slight breather as the final two issues kick things even further.

There is a lot under the surface of this comic. When I first read it, I was happy and excited. I liked it but was a little more than just okay with the overall story of the Architect. Reading it again and really dissecting scenes and dialogue is where I started rethinking everything. Originally I debated between a score of a 4 and a 5 (since we no longer give half stars in our reviews). Because this is pretty much the final issue of Batman before the September relaunch and because of those crucial scenes, my score got bumped up.

Each issue of BATMAN: LI'L GOTHAM is a joy. Each issue is a breath of fresh air. Comics these days can get pretty dark and dreary. That's great for telling "mature" stories but there are times we simply need pure entertainment. That's what Derek Fridolfs and Dustin Nguyen do in each issue. They take the essence of what makes Batman and all his surrounding characters so great and add a sort of magical touch to them. Set in its own continuity, this is a "universe" I can't get enough of. With the availability of the 'digital first' format, picking up an issue is easy without having to worry about venturing out. It's the perfect comic to read while you're in your pajamas on a Sunday morning. Everyone needs to be reading BATMAN: LI'L GOTHAM.

With each issue of BATMAN: LI'L GOTHAM, you're pretty much guaranteed a great time. For only $.99 an issue, Dustin Nguyen and Derek Fridolfs pack in all the reasons we love Batman and his associated characters. Leave it to these two to figure out a way to continue their holiday-themed storytelling and figure out how to use Daylight Saving Time in an issue. We get some great "guest stars" that fall far from what you might possibly expect. This is the joy of the "Digital First" format. You can easily pick up the latest chapter (at a great price) where ever you have a wifi connection and know you'll be entertained.

If you've never read a chapter of BATMAN: LI'L GOTHAM, you need to rectify that immediately. You definitely need to check out this final chapter (plus it's only $0.99!). Dustin Nguyen and Derek Fridolfs have done an amazing job on this series. Each chapter has been delightful, fun and flat out amazing. It's rare to see a comic, especially a Batman one, with so much heart. While there are still the printed issues and collected trades coming, this marks the end of a great thing. This was an brilliant issue and series. It gets me a little misty-eyed to think that this is it. All I can say is thank you to Derek and Dustin, as well as everyone at DC that allowed this series to happen.

The Batman zero issues have been on a roll. Even though we've had an idea what has transpired during the years Bruce Wayne prepared himself for his mission in life, seeing how they played out along with tiny bits of new revelations has been a blast. It's not possible for us to believe that Bruce would easily accept defeat and give up on trying to get answers about the death of his parents. Seeing the lengths he goes to made for a compelling story. There were some moments where we're forced to stretch our sense of disbelief but that's all part of comic books. This issue shows that there are still fascinating stories that can be told about Bruce Wayne before he became Batman.

BATMAN: THE DARK KNIGHT is headed in a new direction courtesy of new writer Gregg Hurwitz. We are given a separate feeling dark and gritty story and it's a great feeling to be able to read a different type of Batman tale. As much as I'm enjoying BATMAN, BATMAN AND ROBIN and BATMAN INCORPORATED, I can now welcome this series if it means telling different sorts of Batman adventures. With the way this story arc begins, I'm almost scared to see where Hurwitz is going to take it. With Scarecrow involved, this goes to show that even characters that have been portrayed in a more silly fashion can still be presented in a creepy and intense way. Batman is about instilling fear in others it'll be a wonderful twist to see him have to cope with how fearful and dark evil can be. Hurwitz's story is creeping me out a little and that's just the way I want it.

Gregg Hurwitz and David Finch are making THE DARK KNIGHT another solid Batman title. I was never really impressed with Scarecrow as a villain but Hurwitz's writing and Finch's depiction is moving him up among the ranks of the Bat-villains. Batman now has his hands full. Children are getting abducted, Commissioner Gordon is missing and he has to try to keep his girlfriend happy despite his constant need to rush out on her. No one said life was easy for Batman. I was ready to give up on this title but am thrilled to find the combination of Hurwitz and Finch a winning one.

For some reason I cannot understand, there seems to be a lot of interest or buzz in this issue. After reading this, that makes even less sense. It's nice to see Georges Jeanty on a DC comic. The problem is this didn't really feel like a DC comic. Joker's Daughter may have wanted to stand up for the women in this mysterious secret undergroudn society but everything else about this issue is something I want to forget. Joker's Daughter is headed to CATWOMAN #24 next. I will be sure to avoid that.

With Yost, Bunn and Fraction involved with the story, you almost have to have faith that there is something big coming on the horizon. Scot Eaton's art captures the feel of the Marvel Universe as well as the other characters that pop in. This series can go either way. There is a lot of promise that this will be big. It's hard to see it from here but you won't want to take the chance of missing out of something big.

This is a very interesting take on the original Battlestar Galactica characters. It starts out completely feeling as fans of the show would want and expect. We slowly see more until the story gives us a crazy twist. Because of this, there's no telling where the direction of this series will take us. That adds to the excitement of seeing something different rather than just trying to retell the original stories. Cezar Razek's art does a great job in capture the likeness of the original actors. The colors are nicely done but almost feels as if it's too much at times. Too much color in sci-fi comics makes the presentation feel overly artificial. As a fan of the original show, I'm digging this direction. Dan Abnett and Andy Lanning know how to tell space stories and even if you think you know all about these characters, you'll find yourself nicely surprised by the story.

It can be hard when change occurs, especially when it's with the main character in a title. As cool as David Zavimbe was as Batwing, he never really seemed to catch on with everyone. Allowing him to venture off in a different direction and bringing in a different character as Batwing could be just what this series needs. Having Justin Gray and Jimmy Palmiotti on board also brings a level of giddiness as the two know how to bring a good time to comics. This issue is the end of Batwing but also the beginning. The choice for the new Batwing is brilliant in terms of tying the character closer to Batman and Gotham City. It's opened a new door that should bring a smile to fans and has the potential to blow up completely in Batman's face. That sense of uncertainty is what will add to this book's excitement as we witness the events unfold. Jimmy and Justin are ensuring Batwing has a place in the future of the Bat-Universe and beyond.

The new Batwing is here and makes an explosive debut. We were introduced to him last issue but Palmiotti and Gray throw him straight into the action to show us what he can do. By skating over the first moments with the new Batwing suit, there is a slight rushed feeling but it does keep the story moving and we do get some flashbacks showing how things happened. We've seen different styles or art in this series and there is a very nice feel to what we get in this issue. There is a feeling of excitement as we witness the birth of a new member of the Bat-Family. Yes it's unfortunate we no longer have the previous Batwing here but whether it's the new character or Palmiotti and Gray, my excitement has dramatically increased. I can't wait to see more.

Nothing against the previous direction of this series but with each issue of the new direction, I become more enthralled. Palmiotti and Gray have given us a new Bat-character to root for and his personality is different enough to set him apart from the others. While he's still a rookie, he does seem a bit too skilled in taking on insane odds, even if he was a cage fighting champion. You can feel the risk he is taking in pursuing this lifestyle while trying to keep it a secret from family and friends. DC, Palmiotti and Gray may have taken some risks in this new direction but it is definitely paying off. I'm getting more and more hooked on the character and can't wait to see what he has to face next.

Palmiotti and Gray continue to flesh out the adventures of the new Batwing. Each issue makes him a more remarkable and believable addition to the Bat-Family. We're treated to a lot of action scenes and the heavy fact that if Lucius Fox finds out Batwing's secret, it would mean bad news for Batman. Palmiotti and Gray are also focusing on new threats for Batwing, which is great. Batwing seems a little too comfortable getting into the thick of the action but it's a blast to see the events unfold. With each issue, I find myself liking this character more and more.

If you've been enjoying Luke Fox's tenure as Batwing, this is the perfect opportunity to find out a little more about who he was long before he stepped into the Bat-armor. Gray and Palmiotti bring us back six years to Gotham City's Zero Year and we get to see the early beginnings of what makes Luke the hero he is today. Some parts of the story felt a little predictable but with the great art and colors, it's a great trip into the past. Gray and Palmiotti also set the stage for what's likely to be a big problem for Luke. Join the fun and witness the birth of Gotham City's newest hero.

BATWING keeps getting better and better. Having a closer connection to Batman and (what's left of) Batman Inc is great but this issue also shows Luke Fox can easily stand on his own without the Dark Knight's help. It's clear Justin Gray and Jimmy Palmiotti are having fun with this series and we're the ones being rewarded. Not only do we get some cool and great looking action, we also see a new character that will hopefully pop up again soon. Do yourself a favor, pick up this issue of BATWING if you haven't already. It's a fun read with a cool story.

Batwoman's going through some changes and it isn't just with the art. We got used to J.H. Williams III's art but I do enjoy the combination of Amy Reeder's pencils along with Guy Major's colors. The vibrant nature of it makes the pages almost crackle with energy. (Apparently Reeder will not be working on some upcoming issues as planned). I can appreciate the new direction the series can take with Batwoman being part of the DEO but it feels contrary to what I enjoyed about her in the beginning. This clearly sets up a conflict in the story and there are some advantages to being allied with them but I'll be watching with a close eye. In some ways it feels as if a firm direction for Batwoman is needed. She has some villains of her own but some of them just don't do it for me. I am getting intrigued with where this story will go but I am a little concerned as I felt something was missing.

If you're looking for a new jumping on point for BATWOMAN, you can easily dive right in here. Marc Andreyko and Jeremy Haun take over the series and deliver a new case for Batwoman. Not only do we get to see Batwoman in action, we also see the civilian side of Kate Kane to remind us of the other part of the character. We'll have to wait for the conclusion to the previous story last seen in issue #24. That puts a slightly sour taste to this issue but with a mysterious flashback and a doosey of a cliffhanger, you should check this issue out.

Batwoman has not one but two women entering her life that may cause some problems or changes in her immediate future. Its interesting to see how Andreyko is developing story points for both Kate and Batwoman rather than have a focus simply on one guise. Jeremy Hauns art fits the mood as well as he has to juggle between two different tones. Its a new story arc so if youve been wondering whats going on in Batwomans life lately, this is a great time to check it out.

What's going on with Batwoman? We've seen some changes in the last few issues and we do get some answers in this final issues. It's unfortunate that this is the end, especially since not all plot lines have been resolved. But we will get that closure in the upcoming annual. Georges Jeanty's art and Guy Major's colors have been great. Hopefully we'll see plenty more of Batwoman after Convergence. This last arc showed us we could get different types of stories to add to Batwoman's character.

If you're looking for a new comic to check out, BEDLAM is one to pick up. Besides being oversized for the price of a single issue. Nick Spencer and Riley Rossmo bring us a dark and creepy story that will make you feel uneasy...but in a good way. It's a darker look at the role a crazed psychopath plays in comics and the way the story is presented along with the art is definitely something to see. It's a "mature comic" for good reasons. Image Comics does it once again with another great new series. Get this now so you don't regret having to search for it later.

There is something refreshing and liberating being able to read a comic that isn't tied down to loads of continuity and other titles. There isn't anything wrong with those comics but having a single comic and characters to worry and focus on is great. Nick Spencer and Riley Rossmo are creating a great and interesting new dark world. We don't have all the pieces to the puzzle but we're finding out more about the characters as well as seeing some set up for what's to come. Rossmo's art and Spencer's script sends you on a dark and creepy trip but it's one you'll want to go on. We don't get quite the shocking moments as in the first issue but there are some here that will make you cringe. Be sure to track down the first issue if you haven't read it yet and prepare yourself for a crazy ride.

One of the most important characters in WATCHMEN finally has his own miniseries. We saw his origin in the original WATCHMEN but now we get to see more details with gorgeous art by Jae Lee. This is a good and bad thing. We already know the story but seeing it spread out like this is a way to feel more of a connection to the character. We get a better idea of what motivates him. He has become increasingly more interesting and it will be interesting to see where the rest of this series takes the character and if it will add anything new.

Darwyn Cooke and Amanda Conner do a great job in capturing the youth and character of a young Laurie Jupiter. Conner's art is everything you'd expect and this could easily be a textless comic with the entire meaning coming across through the art. Unfortunately due to the nature of the story and the struggles Laurie faces at school and with her mom, the events feel a little clich and predictable at times. This wasn't necessarily one of the BEFORE WATCHMEN titles I was most looking forward to but it was having Cooke and Conner attached which made it a great deal. With this first stage in Laurie's life over, there is an interesting set up for what could happen in the next issue. It's an extremely fun issue and Conner's art is so incredibly descriptive. You'll find yourself looking over the pages again after reading just to take in Conner's art. This series is off to a good start. Let's hope the next issue really takes off and knocks us off our feet.

As a big fan of the original Planet of the Apes movies, this is, once again, a welcome treat. We know what society was like in those films and getting to see what it was like prior is nice. In the movies and comics, there is an emphasis on the caste system. Seeing it break down is almost like discovering the secret to a magic trick. This is the beginning of the end of life as they know it. Gabriel Hardman's art with Jordie Bellaire's colors are a sight to be seen. Compared to some Planet of the Apes comics I recall from the 80s, this interpretation is a welcomed surprise. We can assume the story won't have a happy ending but it's almost like reading about history. We know where the ape society ends up but now we get more information as to why it turned out the way it did.

Betty and Veronica is a comic everyone can jump into. If you've never read an Archie book before and are here for Adam Hughes writing and art, you'll get a great sense of who they are. Hughes isn't just writing the book, he's writing the characters. We get to see a day in their life along with how they interact and get along with each other. Along with the gorgeous art, there's plenty of substance to show us what Riverdale is like for these kids.

I didn't think I'd fall in love with this movie. It just couldn't be helped.

It's not often we see comics set in the Old West these days. BIG THUNDER MOUNTAIN RAILROAD delivers what you would want in a Western comic. It may be an "all-ages" comic but there is no shortage on the action or suspense. We're introduced to some interesting characters that will continue to grow as the series progresses. Dennis Hopless is fleshing out a story based on a Disney Park attraction with plenty of pure adventure at its core. The art and color add to the charm as well. With an interesting twist and cliffhanger at the end, it's a safe bet you'll want to come back for the next issue. If you're looking for a fun book filled filled with action and adventure, you'll want to hop on board this series.

Joshua Williamson has delivered another phenomenal debut issue. I first read this with no idea what the story was and seeing the twists unfold makes a spectacular reading experience. Getting caught off guard by a twist in a comic is fun but when there's more than one, it's a whole new game. You know you should not get comfortable or think you know what's coming next. Andrei Bressan's art fits the story perfectly. The layers to the story are intriguing and you can tell this is going to be a thrilling series.

BLACK CANARY is not your typical DC Comics book. That's a good thing. We're starting to see more variety in the books being published. While Dinah's new profession as a rock singer may seem odd to longtime readers, it's creating a new situation that is worth checking out to see where it goes. Brenden Fletcher, Annie Wu, and Lee Loughridge are truly pouring in the indie rock feel into the comic. Aside from the stage performances there is plenty of action, suspense, and heart seeping between the pages. I'm curious to see what's going to happen next.

BLACK CANARY is proving to be an interesting comic. The good and the bad is you're not really sure where things will go. This isn't quite the comic you might think it is. It's not just going to be a focus on Dinah's singing career. Where it will go when this current story ends is a nice unknown to keep you on your toes. We're heading in a nice direction and I'm becoming more and more invested in the series.

I wasn't really a fan of Black Knight before but it looks like Tieri and Pizzari are changing that. This definitely falls into the different part of "All-New, All-Different Marvel" and that's a great thing.

I wasn't too sure what to expect with this series after it was announced. I purposely avoided reading what Coates had planned in order to be able to take it all in. That decision paid off big time. Stelfreeze's art is perfect for this book, and I can't wait to see him get to unleash further. There's a lot to take in and several characters to get to know. I can't remember the last time I was so curious to see what the next issue would deliver. Coates and Stelfreeze are giving us the Black Panther we didn't realize we wanted.

If you had high hopes for Rick Remender's new series, BLACK SCIENCE, you are in luck. We get a pretty amazing introduction to a new world of characters in a fast-paced, action-filled story. Forget those normal "first issues" where things slow to a crawl as we meet all the characters. Remender throws us straight into the action and throughout the story, you get a taste of what the main character, Grant McKay is about and capable of. Matteo Scalera's art and Dean White's colors are enough to make you wonder what you did to deserve such a treat. I'm not quite sure where the series is going to go after the first issue but I am perfectly content to be able to dive into a new series and just experience the story as it happens. Give this one a try.

BLACK SCIENCE is shaping up to be a crazy ride of adventures after adventure (provided the characters can survive their current location). We were introduced to the main character, Grant McKay in the first issue, but here, Rick Remender starts filling us in on who the others are. Aside from the adventure and thrills, there is a mystery to uncover as well with one of the characters possibly being a traitor. There's no telling what will happen next and who will live or die. That's just one thing that makes this a thrilling book. Matteo Scalera and Dean White are on fire in the art department. This is definitely one of those books where you're going to hate having to wait for the next issue. Time to start counting down the days until issue #3.

I could go on and on about this book. This was everything I wanted in a BLACK WIDOW comic. Nathan Edmondson comes out of the gate running. He has a great take on Natasha and reading this issue will immediately make you want more. Phil Noto's art is insanely good. He creates a fantastic mood full of energy and makes Natasha look great without over sexualizing her. This is a comic anyone can easily dive into. Buy an extra copy or two and give them to your friends or loved ones. This is the book Black Widow and comic fans deserve. How many days until issue two?

Black Widow is not a character you want to mess around with. Nathan Edmondson and Phil Noto are showing us exactly what she is made of. With an evil organization targeting her, she's turning the table around and taking the fight to them. The results are glorious moments showcasing what she can do. Each of these fourteen issues have consistently delivered great story and art. It's not often a series can maintain this kind of momentum. BLACK WIDOW is a series everyone should be reading.

Nathan Edmondson and Phil Noto continue to impress. Black Widow's tale against Chaos takes a strange turn. Before that can be fully explored, we get a flashback into Natasha's youth. We're familiar with her past but it was a nice treat seeing her before she was completely affected by her time in the Red Room. With Secret Wars coming up, the future of this series is uncertain. Let's hope there's plenty more Black Widow adventures by Edmondson and Noto to come. I can't get enough of this book.

It's unfortunate that this series is ending. Given this final story, we get a slightly sad but satisfying ending. Edmondson and Noto have done a consistent and remarkable job throughout the entire twenty issues. All good things come to an end and this is a prime example. I can't wait to re-read the entire run.

Black Widow is once again getting the series she deserves. Mark Waid, Chris Samnee, and Matt Wilson have shown us how well they work together, and that's carrying over into this new series. The storytellers waste no time in showing us just how much action and butt-kicking we can expect in this volume. Black Widow versus just about all of S.H.I.E.L.D. is a fantastic way to start a new series. You might read through the issue fairly quickly, but you'll find yourself going back to the beginning to read it again. This is exactly the Black Widow book you've been wanting. I figured with this creative team I'd be happy with this first issue. They've delivered more than I could have hoped for. It's not often I find myself on edge after reading an issue, ready to start counting how many days until the next one. If you want a crazy amount of action and butt-kicking with a looming mystery hanging overhead, you absolutely have to read this book.

The action and intrigue continues in the latest issue of Black Widow. Chris Samnee, Mark Waid, and Matthew Wilson have made this one of my favorite books to read month after month. Black Widow is getting the attention she deserves, and it's all presented in a great package. If you haven't been reading this series, do yourself a huge favor and rectify that. Track down the issues and gobble them up. Reading this book is such a joy.

Stories about future worlds can always be a fun and interesting read. With a brand new series, you don't have to worry about prior continuity or information in order to jump right in. The good and bad thing is we are given a history lesson on how the world came to its current state. This takes place over six pages. Six pages of a man giving a lecture. Later we see people attacking others and then get attacked themselves. It's setting up a dreary area where our main character will have to venture but at this point, it's a little difficult to get invested. There is some promise in how the different classes will clash in the story but the next issue could determine whether or not this will be a series I stick with.

The great thing about the Kickstart books is you get a complete story for a reasonable price. Long running comics are great but having a story with a beginning and an end is a nice change of pace. The story dealing with an amnesiac woman waking up in Nepal with killers after her and uncanny abilities to defend herself almost gives the impression you know where the story is going to end. I'll admit I was a little concerned while reading but I should have known better and put my trust in the fact that the book was written by Jimmy Palmiotti and Justin Gray. Without spoiling anything, there are twists that won't see coming. It's a fun read. The twist is a nice one and the book can be read by anyone without having to worry about years of continuity.

With a title like BRAIN BOY, it's not immediately clear what the series will be about. Fred Van Lente takes the notion of a character having telepathy and goes in a different direction. Seeing a character use his powers for the government isn't necessarily something new but the execution in the story makes this series stand out from others. Van Lente does a remarkable job introducing us to a new comic "universe" without bogging it down with the usual first issue process. We find out what's going on and who is who while also getting a great dose of action and intrigue. Plus you won't see what's coming at the end. R.B. Silva and Ego do a great job with the art and colors, giving this a distinct feel that further sets it apart from other comics. BRAIN BOY is a great new series but then again, with Fred Van Lente doing the writing, it really shouldn't be that much of a surprise. I can't wait to see what happens next.

Get ready for adventures set in outer space. Based on the upcoming web animated series by Pendelton Ward, you can expect plenty of zany adventures and laughs when these teenage warriors set out to tackle absurd missions. We get a great introduction to the team and you can see the potential lying within the pages. As part of Kaboom!, Boom! Studios kids line, I'm not sure if it's completely an all age title. There isn't anything inappropriate but you might find yourself explaining the idea of Sexism to young readers. This series is set to deliver the kind of laughs and adventures we don't get to see in may comics and it has become a welcome addition to my pull list.

There may be some angry Swamp Thing and Constantine fans now that they are part of the DC Universe but the way they are incorporated works. We get some clarification that past events between Constantine and Swamp Thing do still hold true. We also find out which version of Swamp Thing we'll have in the DC Universe. I've never been the most die hard fan of either but I have read quite a bit over the years. I can live with them being in the DC Universe and I'm actually a little excited about it. As for this issue, it works to set up the mini-series which is unfortunate as it slows down the pacing. Yes it is a first issue but because it's apparently tying up the Swamp Thing bit from Brightest Day, DC's recent big event, I would think too much set up wouldn't be needed. I wasn't completely won over by this issue but I will definitely check out the next in order to find out what happens with Constantine and Swamp Thing.

It's always fun to read a brand new comic series. Having it turn out to be a great read is a bonus. As a fan of both Bendis and Bagely, the idea of the two on a creator-owned book is refreshing. From the way the series has been described, they have big things planned. We're always looking for a new series to read and because this is a completely new comic world, anyone can jump right into this issue. The idea of superpowers not existing until a group of college kids discovers a way to create them ins intriguing. You can imagine things won't necessarily go smoothly. I can't wait to see how Bendis and Bagley explore this notion.

We're seeing some big changes in Marvel characters these days. Marvel is showing they have no problem shaking things up in order to deliver some different types of stories. We've seen Bucky Barnes go through some changes since it was revealed he survived his initial death but this is a completely different direction. After the events of ORIGINAL SIN, Bucky is going to have his hands full taking on some pretty insane missions. Joining Ales Kot is Marco Rudy. Marco's art can get pretty trippy and it immediately establishes the tone of the series. Kot tries to lighten up the mood with a couple moments of light humor. This new role for Bucky creates excitement and some trepidation for fans. It's not always easy to see beloved characters go in new directions but Ales Kot is prepared to shake things up completely. This is a nice start to a brand new Bucky comic. Reading this series is going to be an experience you won't forget.

Just when you thought you knew everything about the Winter Solider, you see there are all sorts of adventures he can go on. Ales Kot and Marco Rudy are taking the character to other territories, far off planet Earth. Kot's story and Rudy's art pushes your senses as you become immersed in the story. You may wonder what's going on at times but you'll find you can't look away. With so many layers to the story and comic, this is a series you'll want to see around for some time. There's so much potential and no telling what Kot may come up with next. This isn't a book you just read, it's one that you experience.

It's always hard to imagine reading a "new" comic and getting something that actually feels new. How many different superhero comics have we all read over the years? The great thing is, we haven't really read anything like C.O.W.L. You can feel the enthusiasm, care, and attention that Kyle Higgins and Alec Siegel are pouring into this series. It's practically oozing off the pages. And wait until you see Rod Reis' art. It's simply incredible. Make sure you check out C.O.W.L. This is a series you'll want to read right away. Don't wait until later. Heck, I don't even want to wait for issue #2 now. You're really going to dig this series.

C.O.W.L. is not your typical superhero comic book. Set in Chicago in the 1960s, we get a nice mix of superhero action laced with some real world ideas. Superheroes forming an organized union has a lot of merit. With that aspect such a big role in the title, we get to see what happens when that organized union goes on strike. With heroes on the picket line, what will they do when there are bad guys that need to be dealt with? Kyle Higgins and Alec Siegel continue to flesh out the world they're creating. Rod Reis does an amazing job, as usual, on the art. He is joined by Stphane Perger, which gives us a different taste of the world, although it does cause a slight distraction in the reading experience. C.O.W.L. is a comic that should definitely be on your pull list.

Going back and retelling the secret origin of characters is a risky move, in my opinion. Usually the chunk of the origin is already known and not a whole lot is added. Because we've seen snippets of the changes in Bucky's story, seeing here in more detail really helps to sell how great of a character he is. Of course having Ed Brubaker writing (along with Marc Andreyko) helps to add credibility to this series. The art by Chris Samnee and color art by Bettie Breitweiser makes me happy. I'm not thrilled that Bucky died in Fear Itself or that the Captain America series had been renumbered and relaunched (with this series taking over the numbering) but this was a great and fun issue. I can't wait to see what this creative team has in store for us next issue.

Is it possible to get too much Captain America in one week? Not if the quality is as great as it is here. With a unique blend of flashback and current continuity, Brubabker, Asmus and Francavilla deliver an issue of Captain America that excels on many levels. I'm not normally a fan of flashback stories giving us new information but it works here and the connection to modern times makes an interesting story. Throw in suspense, action, guest appearances and an intriguing cliffhanger, there is so much to enjoy with this issue. The only problem will be having to wait until next month to find out what happens next.

Even though there is some potential here for the story, it feels like in the end, it won't matter. There most likely won't be any major repercussions happening here. We could simply enjoy this story for the team-up it is but with so many titles to read each week, I question if this should be one of them. I like the idea of Steve and Tony in a story involving espionage. We'll see where it goes next issue and if I will continue to read this series.

Steve Rogers is back as Captain America. Ed Brubaker and Steve McNiven make this relaunch title an explosive debut. If you want some touching moments, some humor and some really great action scenes of Cap kicking but, this is the place to find it. Clearly relaunched in time for the movie, this series is easily accessible to all readers, new and old. The lack of mention of Bucky is a bit of a disappointment but fits in with the need to cater to newer readers. Bucky grew into a great character but we all knew the day would come for Steve to return to being Captain America. Check this out to see what all the intrigue is about.

It's a good jumping on point. Cap's going to have a lot to deal with. It's great that Brubaker is subtly incorporating the use of other Avengers to give this book enough of a feel to having ties to the other Avengers book but not too much that it feels bogged down by all of them. The last arc was pretty trippy and this one seems like it will be as well.

Everyone may be raving about Captain America and the Avengers in theaters but this is a different type of Captain America story. Ed Brubaker takes the notion of supervillains entering the Witness Protection Program (as he did brilliantly in INCOGNITO) and adds a gritty element we don't often see in Cap stories. Patrick Zircher's art adds to that feel, further driving home the point that this isn't a pure 'superhero' type story. Guns are blaring and people are dying. It's great to see Brubaker continue to tell compelling Captain America stories where he's constantly mixing things up from story arc to story arc. Can we make it so that he's never allowed to stop writing Captain America?

Someone needs to make sure Ed Brubaker continues to stay on CAPTAIN AMERICA. Cap's dealing with a serious situation as a new Scourge is killing villains that have entered the Witness Protection Program. Throw in the fact that Diamondback has a tie to this killer and was injured herself, Cap has become more focused (in other words, he's kicking a lot of butt). Zircher's art and Mounts colors makes the dark story more intense. There are two big reveals here that could anger and excite long time readers. This issue made me happy to be such a big Captain America fan.

If you haven't been reading recent issues of CAPTAIN AMERICA, you owe it to yourself to catch up on the current arc. Brubaker and Zircher are delivering a grittier story full of action, mystery and suspense. At this point of the arc, we could use some more answers but perhaps I'm just getting a little impatient because I want more. The idea of bringing in past friends and enemies of Cap's is great as it reminds me of when I first started reading CAPTAIN AMERICA. Brubaker has been on a roll and I can't wait to see what will happen next issue.

This isn't the Captain America series you might have been expecting. Cap as a super-agent/spy has been great but there is a great sense of nostalgia that you might have forgotten could exist. This is Cap back in pure superhero action. Once you see where this is going to go, you won't realize that how much you've been missing this sort of action. John Romita Jr.'s art works great in some parts but can get a little rough in others. When I first read this issue, I wasn't sure what to think. Reading it a second time, I totally get where Remender is going with this and cannot wait to see what else he has planned. It would be easy for Remender to continue what Brubaker has set up the last few years. Instead, Remender has set up an incredible new direction that has a Jack Kirby feel to it yet also a completely modern one. I was saddened a bit over the the thought of no more Brubaker but Remender is gearing up to make his mark on CAPTAIN AMERICA equally memorable.

This isn't the Captain America series you were expecting. Rick Remender has taken the reigns and is taking us on a completely tripped out and wacky adventure. We've been seeing so many stories of Cap as a soldier working for the government. While the Brubaker stories full of thrills and espionage were great, Remender is clearly doing his own thing. He's showing it's not necessary to try to replicate what happened before and is delivering stories on his own terms. This means we're getting Cap stories we didn't think was possible or may have forgotten were possible

Things are getting worse for Captain America. Stuck in Dimension Z and trying to recover from when he was held captive by Arnim Zola, Steve has a child he needs to protect while also trying to figure out how he can make his way through this dimension and get back home. Unfortunately there are moments the art can become a distraction from the story. It could also be a combination of the inks and colors. This is a different sort of Captain America story. It's a nice change of pace but having Arnim Zola as his main villain still strikes me as a little odd. Although the last page will make you utter "Holy$#!&." There's no telling where Rick Remender will take this series next and that is part of the fun. You definitely need to fasten your seat belts when reading this series.

What the heck does Rick Remender have planned for Captain America? Cap is going on a crazy ride in this series and that's what makes it so interesting. Too often we tend to get almost predictable stories or arcs but with this, I have no idea what Remender has planned to end it all (well, I do have one theory but we don't need to get into that here). John Romita Jr's art is growing on me in this series. The inks by Hanna and Janson along with Dean White's glorious colors make the pages vibrant despite such a dour situation. The intensity of the story is building up and I'm on the edge of my seat, stuck waiting for the next issue. You have to love seeing a character's book shaken up from time to time.

Rick Remender is cooking up some crazy stew in this title. It's hard to believe it's been nine issues already. The way the story has been developing, there's no telling what might happen next or how it's all going to end next issue. Romita Jr's breakdowns do capture the brutal vibe of the setting of Dimension Z. The questions of doubt in the story I've had for several issues rear their head in the actual story and part of the fun is not knowing if their valid questions or not. Things took a big turn last issue and we'll have to wait until the conclusion to see what Remender has planned for all this. It's a great feeling being excited for a CAPTAIN AMERICA story again.

Rick Remender has done some crazy things to Captain America in these last ten issues, and that's a good thing. We've had the chance to see Cap in a different way and we got a pretty heavy ending that's bound to have a deep affect on the character. It's nice to see Marvel allow the chance for Remender to try something different rather than have him tell more of the same Cap stories we've seen. There should definitely be repercussions after this. After everything Cap went through, I feel like I need to recuperate as well. Remender shows us it is possible to tell a different sort of Captain America story. After this, it'll be interesting to see what Remender has planned next.

With each issue of this Captain America series, Rick Remender wins me over more and more. It's great seeing some follow up from the previous arc rather than just immediately jumping into the next one, something we've seen other writers do in other series. Remender adds a certain level of humanity into his version of Cap and seeing this tough old soldier continuing the fight while trying to deal with everything is incredible. Carlos Pacheco's art and Dean White's colors makes a great issue even better than you'd think possible. There is still more to see. There should be more fall out for Cap as he continues to deal with his time in Dimension Z. Seeing this finally play out in the current Marvel Universe will be fascinating. The next issue can't get here fast enough.

Captain America went through a horrific time in Dimension Z. While other writers might have the hero suddenly bounce back from tragedy, Rick Remender shows us the pain Cap is going through. There is also more to the build up with Nuke and we can only imagine how his story will collide with Cap. Carlos Pacheco's art is a welcomed sight and it just keeps getting better and better. There's no telling what Remender has planned for Cap next and that is what makes reading this series so fun and exciting.

This is a big moment in the life of Captain America. We knew it was coming. Steve Rogers makes it official that he's stepping down and a "new" Cap is announced. What's next for Steve? Of course you'll have to read to find out. As a finale to a volume, this had a nice change of pace. Steve and the others had to deal with Zola and his attack against New York but it was nice to see more of a focus on Steven and the Avengers instead of dwelling on another battle. Carlos Pacheco and Stuart Immonen do this momentous issue justice. The next phase is set up but there's still more we'll need to see with the current plot. There may be a new Cap but with the way this issue ends, it looks like he's not going to have it easy.

Sam Wilson is Captain America. This is something I've struggled with a little inside by my stubbornness that he should be Falcon and Steve Rogers should be Cap. Nick Spencer takes Sam to a different place as Cap and it really feels true to the character. He's the kind of guy that will stand up for his beliefs and do what he can to help the everyman By alienated so many, he's now forced to try to take a new approach to being Cap and it reminds me of the old Captain America stories I loved as a kid. Daniel Acua's art captures the beat of every scene whether it's average people having a conversation or intense action. I wasn't sure what to expect with this title but after reading it, I am 100% on board. I can't remember the last time a comic has completely caught me off guard in such a way. Thank goodness I didn't wait until later to read this book.

Steve Rogers is back as Captain America. He has a new costume, a new shield, and has a sort of new supporting cast. Spencer and Jesus Saiz are working great together. The issue starts out as a standard Cap story, but then takes a huge turn at the end. This is what makes comic books fun and exciting. We can't have the same old stories over and over again. This book will definitely grabbed your attention.

This book delivers a dark journey for one of Marvel's greatest heroes. Each issue pulls you in deeper and you can't help but wonder what's going to happen next.

CAPTAIN AMERICA: WHITE #1 is finally here. Jeph Loeb and Tim Sale's continuation of looking deep into what makes our favorite characters tick is as wonderful as it was before. It's a joy to revisit Steve Rogers as Captain America and seeing the emotions of awakening in the modern age and losing Bucky along with some action-packed adventures set in the past. Dave Stewart's colors are amazing and highly complement the story. It's still a little frustrating for those that have waited so long but the inclusion of the zero issue from 2008 allows you to recall what was shown before. Even if it wasn't included, not reading it doesn't take away from the story. While there is plenty of content, it does add a tiny increase to the price. It is worth it but could be a concern for some. Now that the first issue is here, let's hope we will indeed get the rest of the story. With the direction of the story now set up, it's going to be fantastic to see what happens next.

CAPTAIN MARVEL is off to a good start. Kelly Sue DeConnick is quickly becoming one of my favorite writers. After OSBORN and seeing her at the Image panel at SDCC, her charm and witty nature oozes out off the pages of this comic. Carol Danvers is a character that deserves her own title. It's great to see Carol's character get explored. This issue may be a little light on the action but this shouldn't and doesn't have to be simply another superhero slugfest comic. Carol is tough and can take on even the toughest villains. I may have missed the issue prior to this that explains her new costume but you'll easily get used to it. Her previous costume wasn't the most practical design and it's nice to see something more suited to what she deserves. New and old fans can easily jump in and be prepared for Carol's new direction.

Captain Marvel is shaping up to be another great new series from Marvel. People always complain we don't have enough comics featuring a female lead and this comic is here to help start solving that problem. There is so many strong butt kicking women in this comic it's like it's a new age. Reading this and seeing Carol back in her own series brings a smile to my face. Kelly Sue Deconnick and Dexter Soy are making this a better comic each month. Where this current story is going to go, I'm not really sure. I'm not really concerned because I know it's going to be a fun ride.

The new CAPTAIN MARVEL series is off to a great start. Fazekas and Butters have given us a great setting with a bunch of interesting characters. It'll be interesting to see where this series takes them and there's plenty for the creators and characters to explore. I'm intrigued by the direction and we have great art and colors. Carol may be taking on a new role, but we'll have to see how that works out for her. We have a nice mix of action and character interactions. There's a lot to love in this book. I'm looking forward to the next issue.

Get ready for some high flying adventure and mystery as Josh Williamson and Dark Horse bring Captain Midnight into the present for new adventures. There is a big mystery as to how and why he's arrived. This is something that will be uncovered throughout the series and watching it all unfold will be interesting. This issue collects the three-part story originally seen in DARK HORSE PRESENTS. After reading, you'll be ready and waiting for the release of next month's issue #1. This is your chance to get in on the ground floor to see what the future holds for this classic character.

CAPTAIN MIDNIGHT is bridging the gap between old classic pulp characters and modern comics. Josh Williamson has taken a character that (in the story) was last seen during WWII and has somehow traveled into the present. Whether it's intentional or not, Williamson gives the Captain a feel as if he was actually written back during that time period. The art and colors makes the story feel completely in the present and we're seeing the mystery of Captain Midnight's mission unfold. CAPTAIN MIDNIGHT is a fun series and you should definitely check this out and be sure to track down the zero issue.

I had questioned the casual nature of Captain Midnight suddenly appearing in the present but as we get to see him in action more along with some flashbacks, we're getting a sense of the bigger picture. The more I read of this series, the more I want. With the slight reveal we get here, you'll want to know more. I didn't know anything about Captain Midnight before this series and it's great seeing this character come to life in this series. The tease for the next issue promises a change in story that should offer some nice variation to the series. Too bad we have to wait a month for more.

Captain Midnight is starting to get situated in his current situation. Having journeyed into his future (our present), we're seeing him adjust to the little things, which adds more human nature to the story. Joshua Williamson is able to flesh out this comic world with the supporting cast and the meet up with Skyman. The artist and colorist give an impressive debut on this series and it's all starting to feel like it's finding its groove. And it should be mentioned there's pretty a crazy cliffhanger ending as well.

Carnage is back and he's not taking time to mess around. He is determined to take his evil scheme to a new level. Zeb Wells is actually making me care about Carnage when I pretty much never cared for him before. He's taking the Marvel Universe to a dark place and Clayton Crain's art is helping to take us on the journey. I used to be a harsh critic of Crain's art but the more I see it, the more I can appreciate it. The issue isn't all dark. Wells is a pro at throwing in the humorous dialogue and it'll come as a surprise when readers discover Spider-Man isn't the one with the funniest lines. CARNAGE USA is shaping up to be a roadtrip to hell and the fun is going to be seeing how Spider-Man and the Avengers will manage to put a stop to his evil scheme.

I thought the Zero Year tie-ins would all be unnecessary filler issues. John Layman shows he understands who Selena Kyle is and gives us some nice moments before she created the costumed persona of Catwoman. Seeing her compelled to do the right thing in her own style was a great reminder of some of the Catwoman stories we had before. Lopresti's art manages to make the story feel like a CATWOMAN story even though that identity doesn't exist yet. This was a delightful surprise.

It's time to check out CATWOMAN once again. There's a new creative team and a whole new direction for Selina Kyle. As we see her make her move to try to fix certain things in Gotham City, there's also an element of mystery going on. The new level of complexity being added to her character is something we will relish. Garry Brown's art fits the tone of the story nicely. If you've been wondering what Catwoman has been up to lately, this is a great place to jump in. There may be some tiny moments of confusion but you'll want to stick around to find out more.

This is a book you have to read. It's a book you're going to want to read. As soon as I read it, I had to stop everything to write up this review. Mark Millar knows how to craft a fine tale and does a great job in introducing and fleshing out the new characters you'll immediately fall for. The art by Sean Murphy will immediately knock your socks off. Matt Hollingsworth's colors are phenomenal. I pretty much never do this but as soon as I read this issue, I read it all over again. It might be a time travel story but the subtle touches in the story throughout makes you realize it's not the simple time travel story you may have seen before. The only problem you'll have with this book is trying to figure out how to fit it into your pull list. Be sure to let your comic shop know you're adding it.

If you're looking for a great series with insane and over the top action and adventures, you really need to be reading CHRONONAUTS. Mark Millar and Sean Murphy throw out the traditional rules about time travel and pretty much let it all hang out (just look at the cover). Sean Murphy's art is incredible. I just can't get enough of this series. It's unfortunate there's only one more issue. Hopefully we'll see more really really soon. If you're not reading this book, you need to fix that right away.

CIVIL WAR is like a witnessing some close friends become engaged in a big argument. You feel bad for listening in but you can't pull yourself away out of concern and curiosity. The original Civil War arc was a brutal and spectacular story. This series continues the fight and takes it to a completely different level. Things have gotten really ugly between Captain America and Iron Man. Charles Soule and Leinil Francis Yu are doing wonders with this book. Civil War was one of those arcs you never felt needed to be explored further. Soule and Yu have easily convinced us we need to see it continue and they are just the ones to do it.

If you think you've seen a civil war in the Marvel Universe before, think again. Brian Michael Bendis is making this a bigger decision with much more on the line. There is a big decision to be made. Because some characters acted before everyone could agree, there's a price to be paid. David Marquez's art and Justin Ponsor's colors are amazing and this is a really good start to Marvel's next big event. This is just the beginning, and you won't want to miss out on what happens here. Be sure to read the issue before you see spoilers. The Marvel Universe is about to explode. The next big event is here, and there will be casualties.

Civil War II hasn't quite been the big event we've wanted. It might be the fact that we're constantly seeing heroes fighting each other. This difference of opinions should be a major problem but it doesn't quite live up to our expectations. It's understandable we need to have a big conflict, but Carol Danvers' reaction and how she carries herself is feeling a little out of character. The issue's saving grace is David Marquez's art and Justin Ponsor's colors. We're finally at the point where the pieces for a big fight are in place. Will it be enough to continue reading the series?