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.

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.

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.

Guy Gardner gets some alone time after sharing the spotlight with the other Lanterns in The War of the Green Lanterns. Guy has always proven himself to be a formidable hero and seeing him take care of some routine Lantern business (which you know will turn sour) is fun to see. The problem is the issue felt unnecessary. There won't be any lasting repercussions from this. I don't feel I wouldn't missed out on anything besides Guy kicking some butt if I had passed on this.

The idea of the younger heroes in the Marvel Universe competing against each other in a friendly fashion had some promise. There is the possibility of some interesting confrontations and clashes with some of the characters present. Unfortunately as a first issue, this does not quite sell the idea of this miniseries. The fact that this is meant to be an INFINITY tie in is pretty much not clear in this first issue. That means the direction from what is set up will be drastically changing, again making it peculiar what we're supposed to get out of this issue. I may still pick up the next issue out of curiosity to see where this might go but I'm not quite sold on this miniseries.

Launching a brand new series in the midst of an ongoing comic event isn't the best idea. Usually new series seem to arise as a result of the end of events. New readers and those not reading Spider-Verse are thrown in the middle of a pretty crazy story. It is great that Jessica has her own series and a big amount of importance is placed upon her. It's just unfortunate there are issues with the art and too much going on to even become concerned or attached to Spider-Woman. I was looking forward to this series and hopefully things will move in a different direction once Spider-Verse is over. Jessica Drew deserved better than this.

It's an INFINITY tie-in. Even so, this issue won't add a lot to the overall story. This is more of a tie-in to this month's MIGHTY AVENGERS #1 since the focus is on the Avengers that stayed behind on Earth. We get to see SUPERIOR Spidey deal with a potential new hero. Obviously he has his own motives but it still makes an interesting exchange. Regardless, this two-issue arc interrupts a story I was more interested in with one I can easily do without.

Superman's been a tough sell for comic readers ever since they started leaning towards the darker and edgier or even funnier superheroes. SUPERMAN has the potential to be a great comic for readers but there's something missing. We're only three issues in and it could be said that we need to give the story a chance but the idea of a big overall threat is wearing thin. We're just getting small attacks by nameless threats. Where are all the major Superman villains?

I really want to like SUPERMAN. I was borderline between a 2 and a 3. There are elements I enjoyed but they were just outweighed by the haphazard presentation. Perhaps the cover's focus on a minor part of the issue shouldn't held against the entire issue but unfortunately it's a factor. We're getting different pieces to separate stories, all combined in a single issue. It provides set up for what's to come but it makes the issue lack a cohesive feeling. Jimmy and Lois' appearance feels random or as if they were thrown in just to give them an appearance. Jurgens and Merino's art is really becoming what I think of for Superman in the "New 52." Each month I keep waiting for something to happen. Helspont a couple issues ago felt as if the series was finally going somewhere. I really need and want something to change here so I can enjoy the series more. Superman is one of DC's most iconic character. He deserves more.

I've enjoyed the first three issues of this series but this one doesn't live up to the standards we've now developed. It isn't just because we don't have Joe Maureira's art and have Greg Land's instead. The combination of the art and the way Hawkeye is portrayed here comes across as annoying. There were some fun moments but they were out weighed by Hawkeye's attitude and ineptitude. I was looking forward to a team up with just Spider-Man and Hawkeye but sadly, this wasn't how I wanted it to be.

Schism had its ups and downs but the end results in splitting the team is setting up an interesting new direction, two in fact, for the X-Men. The final issue of that mini along with the Regenesis one shot seemed to tie up all the loose ends yet this 'epilogue' issue is also dealing with all that. As a final issue (until November's relaunch), this didn't really deliver anything really important. The return of a certain villain is a good set up for possible future conflicts and seeing Cyclops come to terms with the schism were nice touches. Having read Uncanny X-Men for so long, I would've liked a bigger send off if a big deal is meant to be made out of this "final issue" (as splashed across the cover). Greg Land drew some interesting scenes with the villains but everyone else spent too much time smiling. Regardless, I'm still looking forward to November's Uncanny X-Men #1.

A pretty big bombshell has been dropped in this issue. The sensible part of me wants to immediately dismiss it, as I did the Homo-Lupus angle told before. We may find out next issue that this new development is just a lie or it could become a new fact in Wolverine's past. At this point, I'm ready to give up trying to figure out what really happened in Wolverine's past. Having years of mystery is one thing, getting misdirection every few years is another. At least Bianchi's art gave us a visual treat and seeing the appearance of Cloak and Dagger was nice (even if they didn't have any speaking scenes). I'm not sure what is going to happen in the next issue and I haven't decided if I want to know.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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?

CLiNT is back with more from the world of Mark Millar. It seems rare to find a magazine with so much comic book content these days. It's also rare to think of actually buying a magazine these days. I really like the idea of what Millar is doing. It's a great way for him to showcase his comics and movie projects. You get the information straight from the source rather than question the validity of rumors. The problem for me was of the four comics contained, I already purchased and read the two Millar ones. Fans of Millar should have already read them as well. But we do get to see some comics that Millar feels will be appealing to his fans. The articles give us a look at Frankie Boyle's REX ROYD comic as well as a look at LENORE but the "CLiNT Investigation" piece didn't appeal to me. The same could be said for the two pages of letters. Including letters is great for those that take the time to send them in but they come across as just fan letters.

We may have had a zero issue last week but this is where Convergence really begins. If you're wondering what the story is about and why different versions of DC characters will be fighting each other for the next two months, this is where you find out why. There are some familiar faces as some EARTH 2 survivors take the spotlight against Telos, the being behind all of this. There might be too much of a focus on the EARTH 2 characters and the decision for everyone to fight each other might feel a little sudden. There is a sense of curiosity to see what transpires next.

The main story of Convergence continues. Fans of the EARTH 2 characters will rejoice in the follow up with the survivors that found themselves facing Telos right before the domes were dropped. The good and the bad thing is it feels like this event is starting to have a bigger focus on those characters and the upcoming EARTH 2: SOCIETY series. There is some difficulty in figuring out exactly where this story is going but thankfully we are getting more of characters from one world forced to fight another world's heroes. This issue also has some nice art and colors that makes the story's flow move quicker. We might not be sure where things are going but our curiosity is still aroused.

More Damian is what we want and this is where we're getting it. There may be some head-scratching moments but seeing Damian move forward to becoming Batman is a cool thing and Andy Kubert's art makes this enjoyable. While we do get some answers about the first issue, there are more that pop up here. It may be a matter of just sitting back and enjoying the adventure but you can't help but wonder how the big picture will turn out. If you're a fan of Damian, you'll want to watch as he enters the next stage of his 'career.'

Does Deadpool have what it takes to kill the entire Marvel Universe? Based on this first issue, he's off to a good start. Readers shouldn't expect the typical Deadpool story as this issue earns the parental advisory slapped on the cover. We have seen different version of Deadpool and this goes along with the darker and less goofier versions. As with these types of stories, you have to wonder how much they'll matter in the grand scheme of comics. We know the entire Marvel Universe can't really be killed. I expected a lighter and more humorous story but there could be something to this more serious approach. I'll definitely be checking out the next issue to see where this is going to go. It's a little disturbing and that makes it clear that this isn't a simple goofy story with Deadpool thrown in just for kicks. If you like your Deadpool less funny and more violent, you'll get a kick out of this.

This is meant to be an absurd story where Deadpool is able to step up his game and do the unexpected at a whole new level. The fashion that the characters die is the key in making the story worth noting. The big question is where will the story leave you afterwards? Is this a story you'll want to read again? Clearly there can't be any repercussions for the future of Deadpool or other characters since this doesn't take place in the proper 616 universe. It will make you look at Deadpool a little differently. A stronger conclusion would have been preferable but perhaps we'll see a continuation to these events.

Only Deadpool and Cullen Bunn could revist a past story and make it feel like this was how it happened, provided Deadpool is fully involved. Bunn has injected Deadpool into the classic and memorable Secret Wars twelve-issue series from 1984. This issue does jump around a bit giving it a disjointed feeling. That might be fitting for Deadpool, as if he were truly the one telling the story, but it also makes it feel like it's just pieced together with random moments. Matteo Lolli's art is really setting up a groove with Deadpool invading and having his way with the events in the story. Even though I was a little let down with this issue, I'm still enjoying it as I'm a sucker for the original Secret Wars. If you can stomach Deadpool's wacky shenanigans and have read the original, you'll want to see how absurd it can get.

Evil Ernie is back and getting pretty comfortable with his new abilities. This book contains the amount of violence you would hope for and expect with the character. The killings are varied and you don't feel like you're seeing the same things over and over. Jesse Blaze Snider is crafting a new origin for Ernie and, as a new reader, I'm enjoying seeing how it all unfolds. My main concern with this issue was some moments with inconsistency in the art. Part look pretty good and other panels felt a little lazy. I'm still hooked into the story. The issue ends with a cliffhanger and it'll be interesting to see what happens in the next issue.

There is clearly more to Evil Ernie that I previously thought. I always saw him as a simple one-dimensional character. This series is showing that there is more to be seen about the character and this is the chance to see how his character will be fleshed out. The biggest problems for me was some inconsistencies with the art. There were moments trying to follow the pacing threw me off as I got distracted. I love seeing how Ernie develops here and it just feels like there is so much more we don't know. If you're looking for a fun read with crazy over-the-top scenes, check out what's going on in EVIL ERNIE.

The idea of the Thing returning to human form once a year is a neat idea. Unfortunately that time feels as if it's come too quickly and passes by even quicker. The action in this story passed by way too fast and it feels like it was just setting things up for the possible big implications hinted at for the next issue. Ben Grimm in Yancy Street was cool but with his 'mission' changing, it just felt like an average story instead of being allowed to have story elements fleshed out. I just wanted more from the issue. But we do have a pretty big twist possibly coming next issue.

What can the Flash do when a villain gets away and takes to the skies? Christos Gage puts Barry Allen in a situation we don't often see where running fast isn't always the answer. Gage and Neil Googe give us a self-contained story that can be enjoyed without needing to worry about any previous baggage from any New 52 stories. Unfortunately, at the same time, it feels like if you skipped this issue, you wouldn't miss any major developments in Barry Allen's life. Not all issues need to be huge game-changers and Gage shows us there isn't a case or battle too small for the Flash as a hero.

As with Pacific Rim, Legendary Comics has released a hardcover prequel for Godzilla to get fans even more excited for the upcoming movie. Often movie tie-in comics fall flat but the story here does provide some interesting tidbits about how Godzilla will be interpreted in the movie. We get some cool moments in the comic but with multiple artists, some parts felt a little rushed and hard to follow. Fans of Godzilla and the upcoming movie should consider checking this out. Others could likely get by waiting.

After four months and now Keith Giffen taking over the writing duties, I'm still not sold on this take for Green Arrow. The idea of Oliver having Q-Core to give him some tech to fight crime has potential but the times where he's sitting around in his office avoiding his responsibilities gives him too much of a slacker feel. There are some good fights here along with the mystery of the Street Knights actually has me a little curious as to who is behind them. I can't say I'm completely sold on Green Arrow yet but I'm starting to get used to this new direction.

With Doug Mahnke taking a break, this issue feels a little like a filler. Geoff Johns is still on board and there are some big develops that shouldn't be missed. Mike Choi steps in as guest artist and offers an interesting take on Hal and Sinestro. While his art worked in many parts, Hal looked like a little too young. Sinestro teams up with a character from his past but it was difficult to care about him. There's some big things coming and this issue is setting it up and giving us a chance to breathe before it all explodes in our faces.

Black Hand is an intriguing foe for Hal Jordan. Charles Soule has brought him back for Villains Month and has added a pretty interesting twist. This Villains Month story gives a taste of who he was and where he's at now but his return felt a little too soon. It's hard to say where he'll appear next since the Green Lantern titles appear to be crammed with events unless we'll be seeing Black Hand face off against other characters. Being that we're now over half way through Villains Month, this story feels like it would have been better placed at a later date. Soule adds a nice twist to the character and it deserves to be investigated further. It's just unfortunate that the feeling of villains overload is placing a damper on this issue.

This was an issue I really went back and forth with. The beginning didn't feel like a NEW GUARDIANS story at all. The mix of those elements along with setting up the new series, THRESHOLD, made the story feel like a hodgepodge of events. While I started thinking I wasn't going to enjoy this comic at all, things did start to turn around. But with the focus on the new character and "The Game," I soon found myself wondering if I could finish reading the issue. There is definite potential for THRESHOLD and the exploration of a different part of the New 52 universe. I just wish this issue didn't feel like a forced way to get me interested in it. I've always felt this was Kyle's book along with the other Lanterns. That was barely the case. It's a great introduction for THRESHOLD if you plan on picking that series up. Just don't expect too much on Kyle learning how to use the different rings.

I was a fan of Grifter when WildC.A.T.S. first debuted and I'm glad to see him make it over to the DC Universe. As part of the 'New 52,' we're seeing his incorporation but the story didn't exactly have a DCU feel to it. The story here could have easily taken place in the Wildstorm Universe. The story is accessible to new readers. Things are happening to the man that will be known as Grifter. He isn't fully aware of what's going on and we don't have to be either. I'm going to be rooting for this series. This issue didn't win me over but based on what I've loved about the character in the past, things should pick up as the story is fleshed out. The art is great to look at. As I read through the issue, I really started digging it more and more. I am still looking forward to the next issue. Let's get ready to finally see Grifter kicking some ass.

We've been waiting for a few years and we finally get an answer as to why Nova hasn't return when Star-Lord, Drax, and Thanos did. The heroes and villain went through some hard times in the Cancerverse and now we know why they never spoke of what happened. Obviously fans won't be happy until Nova is back. The main problem is it felt as if this story went on too long despite only being three issues. It could have been been cut down but now we're left with processing what happened. We have some great fight scenes but other moments of inconsistent art caused some distraction. With this story over, we can now look forward to the next exciting chapter dealing with the Symbiotes. Meanwhile, I'll be sitting over here still waiting for Nova to return someday.

This isn't your typical HACK/SLASH comic. In a slight departure, we get an entertaining story focusing on Cat Curio and her desire to dive into the world of detective work. Seeing her operate and how she gets by was a refreshing change of pace. As a newer reader, I was able to figure out what her deal was after visiting her wiki page here on Comic Vine. My biggest problem with the issue and series is the way Cassie Hack dresses. Hunting deadly killers while wearing a bikini top and short skirt doesn't seem too practical. It might be her trademark look but gives me the impression that there's only two reasons to read the comic. The character of Cat is a good mix in the story with Cassie and Vlad. The Catalog Killer had a good design and the story has a nice conclusion. I'd like to see more stories like this but someone should get Cassie a jacket before she catches a cold.

If you've been following the HELLRAISER series or have seen any of the movies, the idea of Kirsty Cotton as the new Pinhead is still a shocker. Seeing her first days in her new role is one that will be fascinating to see. This issue sets up the story leading to someone summoning her. It would have been nice if there was a tiny bit more explanation or summary on the credit page explaining who the other characters involved here were. The art is good with a couple moments of exception. We have a nice set up and seeing where this will go to next issue is enough to make you want to come back for more.

The Inhumans have remained delegated to the shadows of the Marvel Universe for too long. Its interesting to see them stepping forward in such a big way. With the Terrigen Mists released upon the world, we should be seeing many many new characters pop up. For a first issue, you can see the potential in what this series will be. There is a mix of new characters and threats along with the familiar face of Medusa, searching for Black Bolt. Its the new characters that will need to grab your attention to keep you invested in the series. Joe Madureiras art and Marte Gracias colors are nice to see but its a little difficult to really put your finger on where this series will go. Perhaps with some of the delay or restructuring of the series before it launched, well have to wait for the next issue to really get a feel for whats coming up.

There's a lot going on in INHUMAN. We're seeing the Inhumans build a stronger presence for themselves as New Attilan is being developed. Charles Soule is balancing bringing in new characters along with some familiar Inhumans we would expect to see. The pacing between scenes in this issue feels a little frantic as it jumps back and forth in the middle of the action. Ryan Stegman makes his debut on the series and, along with Marte Gracia, it all looks really good. I'm still not 100% sold on delving further into the world of Inhumans but I am definitely intrigued with what is going on.

JUSTICE LEAGUE has been a source of revelations in setting up traits in some of the characters and the DC Universe since it was set five years ago. This issue does have its share of developments as well that continues to move things forward. We get to see the team in the present day but it doesn't feel like five years has gone by. They have some of the same relationships/traits from the first arc and the public's awe of the team feels too fresh, despite their five year existence. Gene Ha fills in for Jim Lee in the art department. It's always fun to see another artist's interpretation but there were moments the art felt a little rough.

We're not sure how many adventures the Justice League has had or how many villains they've faced. They have a new foe that just might have what it takes to defeat them. Graves is an interesting character and it'd be great to see more of his missing years to see what he's all about. Where the frustration comes in is still not knowing the Leagues' full history. We know they don't trust others but it appears they barely trust each other as well. It's hard to grasp that they would know so little about each other during the five years they've been working along side each other. The real glory in this issue is the back up with Billy Batson, building towards the appearance of Shazam. Despite seeing such a difference in his character, Johns and Gary Frank have me hooked and I can't get enough each month. The last page is stellar and if only we could get a full length series with the characters.

This title is gearing up to give us the adventures of Martian Manhunter and Stargirl against the villains on their quest to defeat the Crime Syndicate and save the heroes. They are both proving to be more and more interesting and likable. Unfortunately we get more of the same as last issue in seeing the imprisoned survivors going through their scenarios as they are oblivious to where they really are. We has have some inconsistencies between the artists. This issue sets things up for the two heroes to take the next step in their mission and the action should definitely be kicking in then.

It's known that this series will be ending or changing into JUSTICE LEAGUE UNITED. You almost do get a sense that not only is the story winding down, but the series as well. There's a slight lack of focus that makes this story feel separate from the rest of FOREVER EVIL. The art is good but with three different artists, there are moments where the difference interrupts the flow of the story. The big question is what will happen next and you most likely won't want to miss it.

We're getting to see more of who Vibe is and who he could become. While not as fully compelling as the first issue, there were still moments you can see the potential Vibe contains. He's being set up to become a powerful asset or threat and seeing what direction that could go in will be interesting. Vibe offers a new outlook on the New 52 given his ethnicity and background. It's great to see some variation in today's heroes but hopefully we'll see a firm direction this title will take besides just seeing Vibe being manipulated by Waller. The tease for next issue looks like we can expect fun times.

The first arc of Mindfield reaches its conclusion. The way it ends leaves the door open for more. J.T. Krul has created a great new world of telepathic CIA agents fighting the evil forces of the world. The battle sequences taking place in the mind allows for some interesting visuals and a welcome change from the average comic book fight scenes. This is definitely a series that will read well in a collected format. It felt as if the final battle ended abruptly. I would have liked to have seen more and hopefully there will be another miniseries to continue the seeds that have been planted here.

Carnage and crossovers feel like a natural fit. With the new VENOM and SCARLET SPIDER series, it's great to pit these three against each other. The decision not to included Spider-Man here was the right choice as well. It's hard to say what will happen next and that's important to get readers to want to come back for more. There were some issues with the art, in particular the way Carnage himself appeared. We also have some mystery characters that looked a little familiar but will leave you scratching your head. There definitely is the potential for this series to blast off. You'll want to see what happens next to see how the coming encounter plays out.

We are off to an interesting start. We get a taste of who Miss Fury is and how she came to be. It's clear she is a very active and capable individual that can more than hold her own against any opposition. We don't get the full story of her origin but enough to keep us invested. The development of the time travel angle adds a different layer to the comic that makes it stand apart from the other 'pulp' revival comics. There were some scenes where the art was catering to those that crave partial nudity and sexual situations. The premise of the book shouldn't have to rely on such ploys and hopefully won't be a factor of future issues. We have a strong and extremely tough female characters involved in a bizarre adventure and I would love to see more. Rob Williams has come up with a great angle on character that will keep you hooked.

This series is delivering a lot of questions. The main ones are is Moon Knight crazy and who is the new Kingpin of LA? Bendis shows us some flashback sequences with Marc setting himself up in LA and it's great getting some more information on those around him. Mysteries are fun and this issue continues to set up the story. We do get some action scenes but there isn't as much as in past issues. Fans of Bullseye will either get a kick out of his appearance here or be slightly disappointed. Maleev's art firmly establishes the mood for Moon Knight's wacky world but I can't say I'm crazy about Snapdragon being the other baddie in this issue. How long will we have to wait for the reveal of the Kingpin and what will the payoff be like?

Change is in the air. It's not a secret that I'm not super-crazy about the changes coming for Dick Grayson. The idea of Dick joining Spyral is definitely intriguing. Tim Seeley introduces us to aspects of the new direction we can expect when the new series, GRAYSON, debuts. There is definitely potential in what's coming up along with the new interpretation of a character that appears here. Unfortunately this issue was a little all over the place in closing out the previous volume and setting up the new one. It didn't feel like a NIGHTWING issue and that might not have been the intention. This isn't the final issue of NIGHTWING I wanted but I will be checking out what's next for sure.

It's really starting to feel like this book is setting things up for the upcoming OLD MAN LOGAN series after Secret Wars ends. There's a feeling of the story jumping around from place to place. Logan is making his way across different domains and we can assume he'll eventually arrive in what's to become the 616 world. Bendis is treating us to pitting Logan up against different versions of characters but the brief encounters leaves us wanting more. Sorrentino and Maiolo's art and colors are fantastic and keeps you glued to the issue.

We have a new universe thanks to the "New 52" and a new O.M.A.C. to go along with it. I thought I knew a little about the character but we have a new feel here. Many creators have commented that we will not be seeing strict origin stories right away. We definitely don't have one here as we are thrown in completely in the middle of the story. O.M.A.C. is on a mission and even he isn't fully aware of why he's doing what he's doing. The art has a retro feel to it and there are plenty of great action scenes which gives promise to lots of excitement in future issues. Because we have new characters in the book, it's hard to become fully invested in them after one issue. The overall mystery of the premise is enough to make you want to find out more.

There may have been some pacing issues during the story but ORIGINAL SIN has been a satisfying read, for the most part. It's a story I'll likely want to read again, especially to look at Deodato's art some more. I'm a little concerned for what happens next for some characters and that's a testament for Jason Aaron pulling me into the story and making me care.

The 'point one' stories are still coming out. Originally they were meant to be 'jumping on points' but since this series isn't actually in publication, there won't be a next issue after this. We do get a self contained story in honor of Spider-Man's fiftieth anniversary. Part of the story takes place at the old warehouse where Spider-Man confronted the burglar that killed his uncle. It's fitting and a little creepy at the same time. It's a story that doesn't contain any major villains but it does have Spider-Man doing what he does best. If this is meant to be a tribute to his character, what better way than to show him risking his life in order to save others and bring down the bad guys?

There's no denying the interest in seeing Frank Miller's final Robocop story come to life. With this series, we will be getting that chance. The problem is, as a first issue, it doesn't completely grab you and make you want to commit to this eight-issue series. At $3.99, the sporadic pacing may make you question the purchase but there are some interesting ideas present. If you're a fan of Robocop, you will absolutely want to see this portrayal. This is enough of an indication that the next issue's installment will pick up. Or at least we can hope things will pick up. This could be a really cool series.

Whenever there's a new comic from Alan Davis, my expectation immediately sore. As a huge fan, I can never get enough. Unfortunately this issue, while it is pretty cool to journey back to a story with Hulk and the X-Men from 1970, I found myself asking if this was really necessary. Sure, you can ask whether any comic is necessary but with the limitations of being set in the past, we know there won't be any major developments for the characters. There is no questioning whether or not fans of Mr. Davis should pick this up. I will indeed continue to read this but sadly my excitement for the series has sunk a little.

Is Scarlet Spider going to stay in Houston? With a giant bomb about to go off, there might not be a Houston for him to stay in. Chris Yost continues to develop the character of Kaine in bringing him closer and closer to actually being an actual hero. The story doesn't quite have the same big superhero feel as past issues and there's also the fact that we know have to get used to the absence of Ryan Stegman. There's also a couple forced cameos that leave a bad taste in your mouth. The fact that we're seeing Kaine's character being built up is what makes this title so good. He hasn't fully embraced being a hero but whether he wants to be one or not, that's what's happening. This struggle in figuring out who he is while also accepting what he's done in the past is the appeal. He's a damaged character and he's doing his best to fix himself.

If you aren't familiar with the characters in The Avengers TV show, it's possible you won't be reading this comic. With Mark Waid and Boom! Studios involved plus the fact that this is a first issue, you might be willing to take a chance and try something different. The problem is, this issue begins with a crazy opening. There isn't much of a chance to introduce the characters and new readers will quickly feel lost trying to catch up with all the chaotic elements of the story. This definitely is a game-changer in the world of Steed and Mrs. Peel. There is a big enough of a hook in wondering how the series will continue from here to make you come back. Throw in the appearance of certain characters and the insane development at the end, fans will be sure to return for the next issue.

It's starting to feel like we're getting too much Joker in all these Death of the Family tie-ins. The idea was for Joker to try to get rid of all Batman's close allies to make him a better Batman. Yet this tie-in issue deals with him trying to mold Harley into what he thinks she should be to be at her full potential. Trying to figure out how and where this story takes place during all the other ones is a little distracting even though we should just focus on this issue. We do get to see some interesting banter between the two and their relationship may have evolved to a different level. Fans of the series will want to witness the other actual Suicide Squad elements sprinkled in the issue.

This series has had its ups and downs. DeFalco is attempting to humanize Superboy a little more and it's a welcome change. We've been through his origin and have seen his early adjustments to the 'real world.' Trying to connect with 'normal' people is a good idea but hopefully we'll continue to see the struggle as he tries to figure out the proper way to handle things and etiquette required in different situations. The art here was an improvement but unfortunately seems to be just a fill in. During Superboy's efforts to create and maintain a normal life, he is pulled into a supernatural-type confrontation. The 'villain' leaves a little to be desired but hopefully we'll see some payout when the reason for her appearance here is explained. It's going to be good to see where this series will go moving forward but we'll have to wait until after next month's zero issue.

The art was fitting for a Superman comic yet still made it clear that this Superman is a little younger than the one we've been reading prior to 'The New 52.' The first issue is pretty dark (literally as it takes place at night) and Buccellato's colors really enhance Superman's new costume (which I'm still on the fence over). I would have preferred a bigger villain for the first issue but the tease at the end for next issue sounds like it's going to be some old school fun.

We're getting closer to finding out what all the recent alien invasions have been about. We're still learning about the new residents and supporting characters in Metropolis and it's going to be interesting to see why new additions were made instead of using past characters. Lois seems to be maturing as she's become more responsible but Clark has a slacker feel to him. This issue finally breaks away from the formula of a strange alien attacking Metropolis and Superman and then being defeated right after spouting alien gibberish. There is more revealed but it's all building up to the arc's conclusion.

This Superman annual delivers plenty of action that has been missing in the regular series. With all the guest appearances and the set up of this story, it's almost as if Superman has entered a Wildstorm comic. Helspont has returned and makes up for his last appearance. He's seems more powerful and is definitely going to cause problems for Superman. There are plenty of other guest appearances that gives the impression this is just the beginning of a major crossover with a bunch of other titles. There might be a tiny bit of confusion if you're not familiar with the other characters but you'll get swept up in the action and be able to find your way. Some of Superman's dialogue and actions felt different from what we've been seeing in the New 52 but then again, we have almost had three different versions of him so far. If these events are leading into the regular series, SUPERMAN is going to be getting a lot more exciting.

Change can be a scary thing. This is especially true when it comes to creative changes in comics. What better villain to have Swamp Thing go up against that Scarecrow? Charles Soule takes Swamp Thing on a different route than we've seen in the previous issues. With the Rotworld story finally over, we can see Alec Holland embrace his role as the avatar of the Green and explore the rest of the world, performing the duties the Green needs him to perform. We're off to an interesting beginning but it almost feels a little too sudden to have both Scarecrow and Superman, two non-Swamp Thing characters, show up right away. Soule is setting up things nicely and you can't help but be curious to see where he's going to take the character. Change can be scary but things are looking pretty good.

The mystery surrounding Wonder Girl's past continues to deepen. We will find out more but will have to wait until after next month's zero issue. With Cassie's struggle over her armor, we get to see Red Robin and Superboy work together to try to help her. This gives a stronger sense to the fact that they are part of a team, even if we haven't seen a full blown acceptance by some of the members about the team. We get to see a new character that will clearly pose a huge threat for the team in the future. This may not be the Teen Titans we had before the New 52 but seeing them work together is making the team more appealing. It was just unfortunate that we had a shortened main story with a back up that continued the story from last week's DC UNIVERSE PRESENTS. At least we know everyone will be talking about this series after the zero issue.

Who is Thanos? Why is he one of the greatest and most evil villains in the Marvel Universe? That's what Jason Aaron is setting out to show us. It's hard to fully take in what we're seeing. We know that Thanos had to be young at some point. It's interesting to see but almost sheds new light on Thanos in a bad way. A big part of me didn't want to see Thanos as a kid. But I do trust in the vision Jason Aaron must have for this series. I'm more looking forward to what's in the next issue. We can't forget Simone Bianchi's amazing art here either. It might be a rocky start but you can't help but be excited to see what Aaron and Bianchi have coming up.

It's Spider-Man's fiftieth anniversary and we're getting a load of anniversary stories this month. Zeb Wells takes the opportunity to showcase a team-up with Peter Parker and Aunt May. Spider-Man is the hero he is today because of the death of his Uncle Ben. This is something that we all know. While Peter has expressed his guilt many times over the years, we get a touching look at how he is still trying to deal with the burden and his attempt to fully convey this to Aunt May. Steve Dillon is a skilled artist but his style wasn't the best fit for an issue that was lighter on the action and more about the dialogue between Peter and May. It's unfortunate that we've had so many anniversary issues this month as this one could easily get mixed among the others. It's a touching story that shows how important Spider-Man's origin is as well as the need for Aunt May in his life.

If you haven't picked up the Free Comic Book Day zero issue, hopefully you can still track one down. While you can still dive into this story, set five years from now, having an idea what the New 52 universe thirty-five years from now looks like and why Batman Beyond time traveled back would help appreciate this issue. As a first issue, those that missed out might find themselves scratching their heads. This can definitely be a fun ride as a weekly series but there's a little too much going on in this issue. Having the cast of the issue consist of different characters whose books have all been canceled is an interesting decision. We shouldn't always see the big guns in comic book events but the reality of it is, that might be more appealing to readers not fully invested in the fate of the entire New 52 Universe. There is a pretty crazy cliffhanger and that alone will make you want to return next week for the second issue. But try to find a copy of the FCBD one.

It's great to see Marvel celebrating Spider-Man's fiftieth anniversary in a unique way. Resurrecting previous Spider-Man series and giving them a self-contained point one issue is a fun way to see story that doesn't have immediate ties to the current series. Unfortunately there is the question of whether or not the story will 'matter.' This is a story that took place some months ago in Spider-Man's life. It also fails to be a self-contained story as it will continue in the next .2 issue. Fans of the newer Vulture will be happy to see his appearance here and will be in suspense to find out how the story ends. It's not clear how exactly this story celebrates Spidey's anniversary. It has an 'untold tale' feel but whether or not there's any lasting effects of the story remain to be seen.

It's always great to see THE TICK in comics. I'll admit, I haven't read a TICK comic in years because of my stubbornness in the absence of Ben Edlund actually writing and drawing the comics. We do get a fun story here that's fitting for the character. If you're a less strict TICK fan, you'll have no problem enjoying the tale as long as you have an idea what the Tick is all about.

I can't really recall many issues of The Walking Dead that I didn't enjoy. There is always the feeling of not knowing what to expect and that nobody is safe. With the main characters surviving the recent zombie attack, we're left seeing everyone pick up the pieces. It's great to see what happens in the aftermath but that also means less in terms of action. There is some progression in side plots and we do find out a little more about the fate of Carl. Whether this is the calm before another storm remains to be seen.

I really wanted to like this issue. With Kirkman and Spencer on board, we can only expect great things. The first issue doesn't quite showcase what we can expect. It is well written and there is some interesting developments but what we get doesn't match what the issue's solicit tells us will happen. For a first issue, the right balance has to be present that introduces the concept while grabbing and pulling in the new reader. This issue doesn't quite grab you with a firm hand. It's only because Kirkman and Spencer are attached that I will check out the next issue. Hopefully that will be the one to win me over and have me praise this new series out on the streets.

Jim Zub has a lot to set up and deal with. Midway through this first issue, you do start to feel the pieces falling into place. Jon Malin's art and Matt Yackey's colors do give it a throwback vibe. It took a little getting used to at first but it does capture the feel of the team. Winter Soldier is a great character with an interesting agenda and the idea of the Thunderbolts has always been intriguing. You can see the potential here, and I'll definitely be back for the next issue.

As a huge fan of Byrne's art, it's great to see it but there are moments where the action feel a little empty. The coloring is nice but the overuse of blue and a lighter blue for the sky makes the art sometimes look a little bland. That's not something I normally associate with Byrne's art. Because the characters were all created by Byrne, he can do whatever he likes with them. That adds more suspense, especially when we see one member of the team injured. I now have high hopes for this series and want to be won over even more in the next issue. New and different is good and this is our chance to have more comics from Byrne. I can't wait to see what happens next.

We're seeing a different type of Avengers story and that's the whole point of this series. Rather than give us more of what we've seen many times, Rick Remender is mixing up different concepts from the Avengers and X-Men. Some of these are a little hard to get used to but that's what gives this book an edge. You're not quite sure what to expect. John Cassaday's art has its moments where it shines but there are many scenes that fall a little flat. We also get too many brightly colored plain backgrounds. With the chaos and destruction, it should have a darker feel to it. It's great seeing this new team try to function together. If they survive, this will definitely make them stronger but seeing them try to mesh together is what sets this apart from the other Avengers (and X-Men) titles.

It's the end for UNCANNY X-MEN and Cyclops' Extinction Team. This clearly feels like a final issue as we see several story points resolved nice and neatly. Cyclops and Colossus get some big surprises while the resolution of Unit and Danger's story wasn't too fascinating. It's a shame that this series had to end and I felt it got overlooked at times (by myself included) due to the fact there are/were so many X-Men titles. There are the unfortunate continuity questions with this being tied to AVENGERS VS X-MEN and the CONSEQUENCES weekly title. This issue may be the final issue but it definitely opens the door to new possibilities we'll have to wait to see explored. It was a great run. Let's see what Marvel NOW! holds for these members of the X-Men.

Venom vs. Hellstrom. This isn't something I can get excited over due to my lack of interest in Hellstrom. There is some interesting little developments thrown about that could change things for Venom. Of course there's a doosey of a cliffhanger as well. Hopefully Venom can solve this mission without the Secret Avengers rushing to his aide. This is meant to be a solo book and we need to see that Flash still has what it takes to wear the suit and complete his missions. Hopefully he'll be facing villains I find more appealing in later issues. There still is a lot of potential to Flash Thompson being Venom. It almost feels as if he needs to find a new direction in the aftermath of his battle with Crime-Master.

Voltron is back. Readers new to the franchise might not completely understand what's going on as the issue begins with full-on action. The characters are all introduced as they appear on each page but the fact that they are not in their individual lion/ships while Voltron is assembled was a little odd. There is a pretty strange twist thrown in (that I don't think ever came up in the show) and it has the potential to take the series to a new and strange place. My curiosity has been aroused and I will definitely be back for the next issue to see what's going to happen next.

I'm really torn with this story. I'm not a fan of the death of characters only to see them return later. At least with Sabretooth, it's technically been close to five years (if you don't count his appearance in the Wolverine Goes to Hell arc). Wolverine needs Sabretooth as one of his villains. He's too evil of a character and thorn in his side to be killed off. The explanation as to how he died and is now returning isn't fully explained just yet. What we do see raises some questions, at least for me. The inclusion of Simone Bianchi's art gives the story the atmosphere needed to make this feel like it's going to be a big and gritty story. We also see the return of another deadly villain that gives this title the darker tone you would expect in a Wolverine comic. WOLVERINE AND THE X-MEN is a great read and I absolutely love it but there are times we need less fun and more doom and gloom in a Wolverine story.

We're used to seeing a lot of Wolverine but having Paul Cornell and Alan Davis on board sets this comic apart from the others. In what appears to be a pure solo Wolverine title, we get to see Wolverine take a beating in a way only he can. Cornell and Davis through us right in the middle of the action and we have to sit back and watch the story unfold to figure out what's going on. Not even Wolverine is fully aware of what he's up against. That sort of mystery in storytelling can be enticing but also could cause some to quickly lose interest. The greatest part was seeing Davis' detailed art and character designs and we get to see him draw Wolverine in a more violent setting. It appears that Nick Fury Jr. is appearing in the third issue but if this title can keep the focus of pure solo Wolverine stories, this could become a great Wolverine title.

We are close to the end. Those hungering for more action will indeed get it in this issue. The stakes have been raised. We get a big cliffhanger and there's no telling what will happen in the final chapter next week. The entire arc has been a bit of a roller coaster ride and it almost feels like a lot is being crammed into this second to last issue. The art feels a little rushed at times but then again, there is a lot of action and characters crammed in. We may know (from future solicits) the fate of most of the characters but there's still the chance of some casualties in the final chapter. There's no questioning if you've been following along this arc, you'll want to read this issue. We are ready and waiting for the story to end to see what's next.

Marvel's first weekly title is off to a good start. Charles Soule has brought in an interesting mix of familiar and new characters from the recent DEATH OF WOLVERINE miniseries. Readers that haven't read those might find themselves a little confused as to why everyone is working together. Nick Bradshaw's art and FCO Plascencia's colors look great but don't quite feel like the right fit for the tone of a book full of deadly killers. You'll definitely enjoy the visuals but it won't feel as heavy as it should. I am intrigued with the direction of this title so I am on board to see where the next few issues take us. Fans of the Death of Wolverine storyline and familiar characters should check this out. You'll just have to make the decision whether or not you can commit to a weekly comic.

There will be some having difficulties adjusting to the creative change. It is important to go into this new direction with an unbiased outlook. Meredith and David Finch do a fine job setting up the hectic nature of Wonder Woman's life. There are moments where the edge Wonder Woman usually had previously and in other books is diminished. Showing a softer side has its merits but it's a fine line to make sure she doesn't appear to weak or lost. Still, there are some interesting aspects being introduced here to make you come back for more next month.

WORLDS' FINEST is a book I keep rooting for. There are some good elements in this issue but the series continues to feel like it's not really going anywhere. Power Girl abusing her powers is interesting and hopefully there will be some more repercussions over what she did. You have to wonder what Superman would think if he knew what she was doing. Huntress displays her own prowess but that is cut short as we see some fallout from BATMAN INCORPORATED. It raises some interesting questions but the way it's presented almost gives a forced feeling in the middle of this comic. We definitely need to see more between Huntress and Batman. It may not be essential reading but hopefully will set the stage for future stories. The 'shock' at the end just might make you scratch you head as well.

X-Men fans can either rejoice or cringe because there is a new X-Men title on the shelves. Greg Pak is taking some of the characters he introduced in his recent ASTONISHING X-MEN arc and with Dazzler thrown in, the party's about to get started. This book is separate from the other X-titles as it seems to have more of an EXILES feel with the team having to go out to different worlds to complete their agenda. This is a good and bad thing since I'm not sure if that's something I want right now. Greg Pak sets up the series and I will return next issue to make a better judgement on my opinion overall. I love the inclusion of Dazzler but we'll see if that and the 'anything goes' direction will be enough to win me over.

After enjoying the first issue, my hopes may have gotten too high for this one. I really want to enjoy this series but the main focus of the 'villain' didn't quite do it for me. The way Wiccan and Hulkling try dealing with the situation is great even if it doesn't get a chance to go too far. The lack of other characters seen in the first issue makes this second issue of a new series feel like quite a bit is missing. While we can't expect all members of a team book to always be present, there should be more development on the characters for new readers to the series. The art is great and the way the issue ends makes you want to see the next issue. It's just unfortunate we didn't have a little more in this issue.

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.

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.

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.

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...

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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).

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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?

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

Gail Simone's first Vertigo issue sets up a lot. We're off to a great start and you'll definitely want to know what's coming up and what will happen next. Jon Davis-Hunt's art and colors are a perfect match for the story and creates a really nice tone. As this is a set up issue, there is a bit going on and it's obvious the pacing of future issues will change. There were some moments it felt things jumped a bit and quickly built up to the cliffhanger ending. Even though we have so many great titles available on comic shelves each week, I'm happy to add CLEAN ROOM to my reading list. Simone and Davis-Hunt have given us a nice and juicy story that allows you to momentarily escape reality as you get pulled into this freaky world.

Often you hear about comic book readers tired of the same formulaic stories and characters. CODE MONKEY SAVE WORLD is that "something different" worth trying. With Greg Pak writing the story and dialogue, you immediately get a feel for who our lead monkey is. You can understand what he's feeling and where he's coming from"even though he's a talking monkey! As the issue introduces us to the characters, you can see the potential for some great and wacky adventures in this world. The art and color by Takeshi Miyazawa and Jessica Kholinne are fantastic. This has everything needed to guarantee a fun four-issue miniseries. It's no wonder this project exploded on Kickstarter and was funded with ease.

CONVERGENCE has begun. Get ready to fasten your seat belts as Dan Jurgens, Jeff King, and Ethan Van Sciver prepare to take us (and Superman) on a crazy journey, unlocking the secrets behind Convergence while setting up the direction of the event. The idea becomes more and more interesting as you hear this ultimate version of Brainiac explain what's going on. Ethan Van Sciver's art and Marcelo Maiolo's colors crank up the excitement as we start to think about the possibilities this series could unleash. As a zero issue, it is a bit of a set up one but that's to be expected. Hopefully things will be cranked up even further in the following issues. If you're looking for a taste of what to expect in Convergence, this issue gives you one that will make you feel a little warm inside.

I didn't realize how much I missed this version of Superman until Dan Jurgens brought him back. Covergence is underway and we're seeing familiar versions of our favorite characters. Jurgens and Lee Weeks do a fantastic job in bringing back the nostalgia despite the setting and situation the story calls for. It's hard to say how much of version A fighting version B we can handle over these next two months but this issue shows that we can have some fun while seeing the action unfold.

You have to commend everyone involved in CREATOR OWNED HEROES. Justin Gray, Jimmy Palmiotti and Steve Niles have been delivering orignal characters and stories for six issues now. This is also another thing that makes Image Comics cool as well. We're seeing Darwyn Cooke being added to the roster as he has decided he needs to start doing more creator owned material. This is more than just a comic, it has a magazine feel to it with interviews and articles about getting started writing. The problem is both main stories are continuations from the last issue. Looking at the series overall, you know you'll get great stories but you never know what the stories will be about or if it'll be based on a genre you enjoy. For $3.99, you get 30 pages of story plus all the extra content. This truly is a good deal and a book you should think about supporting each month.

CURB STOMP was a delightful surprise. That doesn't quite sound right considering how savage the act is. Ryan Ferrier has introduced us to an interesting little corner of the world where gang violence and turf wars are a way of life. There's obviously an intriguing angle with a gang consisting of five ass-kicking women. Each has their own look, feel, and really cool name. The art does go along with establish the mood and vibe of the book. There were some moments the art and color felt off a little but not enough to fully distract you from enjoying the issue. CURB STOMP has me hooked. I found myself cringing at times and on the edge of my seat and the events escalated towards the end. There aren't really many books like CURB STOMP on the shelves and I'd recommend you check it out.

Picking up a new series or miniseries is often a gamble. There are many books on sale but it's worth it to take a risk from time to time. CURSE may be a horror-type story dealing with a man hunting a killer but there is more to it than that. You find yourself caring about the main character and you'll want to see if he can succeed on his mission. With the way things go in this first issue, you can't help but wonder what else is coming up. Michael Moreci and Tim Daniel set up the series nicely and the art by Riley Rossmo and Colin Lorimer is a cool combination. CURSE was a nice surprise and it's great to see new and original stories still hitting the shelves.

David Walker is really fleshing out who Cyborg is. It's exciting to hear what he's thinking about his current situation and the changes he's going through. We're seeing him establish his own territory apart from the Justice League and there's definitely a big threat headed his way, giving him his own enemies. Ivan Reis' pencils are always a joy to see. The inks and the colors adds to Reis' stellar art. It would be nice to know more about the characters in the vague "Someplace Else" but it's a building point for the plot and we just have to be patient. CYBORG is off to a great start. This is the book Cyborg and Cyborg fans have been waiting for.

Check your pockets. Chances are you might be able to find a dollar there. Or maybe you have a dollar you can spare or borrow. If you do, you definitely should check out this preview of the upcoming graphic novel by FJ DeSanto, Bradley Cramp and Marcus To. To's art with Ian Herring's colors will blow you away. The preview succeeds in giving you enough of a tease to make you demand more. You can feel the combination of the original manga and the Western style of comics. Comic readers can sometimes get a little cynical with today's comics. This is a great taste of a comic to alleviate any concerns with today's market. It's a great introduction to the characters and you'll absolutely want this book on your radar.

Cyclops finally has his own ongoing series. Only this isn't quite the Cyclops we know. When the young original X-Men were brought to the present, we've had chance to see these characters slowly start to evolve differently. The idea of a sixteen-year-old Cyclops having adventures out in space with his father is pretty far out and is bound to have an affect on him. Russell Dauterman's art is perfect for the series and I can't wait to see what Greg Rucka throws at him in future issues. Whether you love Cyclops or not, this is a series to check out to find out who this Cyclops will become. Marvel is on fire with their recent new solo titles focusing on individual characters. It's a great time to be a comic fan. It's just a little hard on the wallet.

Damian is back. Sort of. Ever since we first saw the dark future with Damian as Batman, we've been wanting to see more of what his future holds. With his unfortunate current state in comics, it's nice to be able to escape that and look forward at this story. This is our chance to see Damian in a way we haven't been able to before. Andy Kubert does a great job as the writer and artist in bringing life to this moment. There are some tiny moments of confusion but they should be expanded on in future issues. With a start like this one, it's too bad this is only four issues. Get ready to see Damian like you've never seen him. Bravo to Andy Kubert for delivering such a fun and great looking Damian story.

Mark Waid continues make DAREDEVIL a great read month after month. With Chris Samnee's art and the crazy situation Daredevil is (after literally losing his head last issue), this is continues to be a fantastic run. You wouldn't think this villain could cause this sort of damage but Waid keeps us on the edge of our seat as he pushes the story further along. It sort of felt as if this issue started reaching a conclusion a little too quickly but at the same time, we probably wouldn't want a headless Daredevil running around for too long. Waid's DAREDEVIL can always be counted on to deliver great and exciting adventures. You never know what he's going to throw at us next.

Each issue of Mark Waid's DAREDEVIL proves to be fun and entertaining. After all the craziness DD's been going through, we get a slightly calmer scenario in this story. That doesn't mean it's not as exciting, it just feels toned down a little. It's a good way for Daredevil and us to catch our breaths. Javier Rodriguez's art and colors carries on the tradition that we've been used to in this series. If nothing else, Mark Waid and Marvel have been spoiling us with this series. We also get a nice set up for future possible stories, an intriguing cliffhanger and a surprising guest for the next issue.

Daredevil and Silver Surfer is a pairing you would think could never work. Yet, of course, Mark Waid does make it work. In what almost starts out as borderline absurdity, we get to see a story that allows a closer look at both characters. We've seen many stories with the same characters over the years so this truly gives us something different with Daredevil. Chris Samnee's art and Javier Rodriguez's colors are extraordinary as usual. The issue may not be earth-shattering in DD's little corner of the Marvel Universe but without a doubt, this is a fun-filled issue. What else would we expect from this series?

These future stories telling the final days of a hero can be tough. No one wants to see their favorite heroes get demolished but if it's told with great writing, you can't help but get pulled into it. Bendis and Mack give a dark and brutal look at what's to come of Daredevil. It will leave a sinking feeling as you turn each page with Janson and Sienkiewicz's gritty art. These types of stories are often hit or miss but this one is a hit, as in a hit on the back of your head with a brick. It will leave you reeling as you cringe at what Daredevil's future may hold for him. Just when you think you have the series figured out, a wrench comes flying your way to catch you by surprise. This is a heavy comic and it's exactly what you'd want from the series.

Daredevil is facing some big changes in life. Before he arrives in his new hometown of San Francisco, Mark Waid and Peter Krause are taking Matt and a friend on a road trip, of sorts, across the country. With this being Mark Waid behind the wheel, of course it won't be your typical road trip. This first chapter sets up the story while also reminding new and old readers who Matt is and what he can do. Krause's art is great and it's always fun to see different artists add their mark to a character. Waid puts Daredevil in a different situation and we're left with a very nice cliffhanger to make us come back for the next chapter. If you've been loving Waid's DAREDEVIL, you really need to check this series out before the new one begins.

Because it's a first issue, there is some set up involved and the action might be a little on the light side. There is more than enough here, along with the cliffhanger ending, to give me a reason to want to come back for the next issue.

Boom! Studios has unleashed a new vampire series. The great news is Matt Gagnon and Michael Alan Nelson have come up with a different twist on the genre. Rather than focus simply on the bloodsucking creatures, we are introduced to a new world where powerful vampire families rule different territories. In their employ, they have "Day Men" that serve and protect them during the day. Brian Stelfreeze's art creates a great atmosphere with a nice variety of different types of characters as well as details in the background that will catch and hold your attention. If you've ever had any interest in the vampire genre, this is a series to check out. Breathing new life in what has felt like an overplayed concept, DAY MEN shows us there is plenty more to the idea of vampires and the world they live in.

This is how we'd want to see Bart Allen written. I would've liked to see more about Bart and how he compares to the pre-New 52 version. The way Fabian Nicieza writes him definitely has a pre-New 52 feel. That made a story involving some characters I didn't find too interesting still have a fun feel. This is what Fabian is good at, telling good stories that are funny and entertaining. I could totally go for a solo Kid Flash title written by Fabian.

At just a glance, you can immediately tell this is going to be a great series. Justin Jordan's been known not to hold back and that's evident here as well. We've seen many stories of a man seeking revenge but there is a great feeling and energy here that makes it stand apart from other similar stories. Matteo Scalera's art and Moreno Dinisio's colors work wonderfully here. There's an almost cinematic feel to it all and you'll want to read through the issue again just to take it all in. This is the type of comic that punches you in the gut with its storytelling. Getting punched in the gut may not sound fun but this comic absolutely is.

Vertigo's newest series is off to a great start. Whether you're familiar with the Dead Boy Detectives from their previous appearance in SANDMAN and their own miniseries, this is a book anyone can jump right into. Toby Litt and Mark Buckingham are taking the characters and adding to their story. There's a mix of innocence and adventure as we see the new developments come in. DEAD BOY DETECTIVES may be about two dead boys but there is so much life in this series.

There's something about this series that is simply fascinating. Rick Remender is taking the concept of a school for assassins and fleshing it out in an interesting way. Previously we got a glimpse at some of the other students and in this issue we focus more on the main character, Marcus, and one of his classmates. With the story focusing on just the two of them, there is a slight isolated feel. The nice thing is it does slow things down a little to give the characters a more realistic feel. Wes Craig's art and Lee Loughridge's colors are a treat and really compliment the story, giving it a fresh feel. There might be a little less action in this issue but we get a pretty explosive ending.

Deadpool is going to die. It seems like an absurd idea and one that a Deadpool comic would poke fun at. It's possible that's the case but Deadpool is determined that this is what he wants. From recent events, it turns out there is a solution in making this happen. Daniel Way continues to show that Deadpool can be written in a humorous fashion and include a well thought out story. I had gotten burnt out on the Deadpool overload and had to step away, even though this was my favorite series of them all. It doesn't seem likely that we'll actually see the death of Deadpool but there is the chance that it could actually happen. That would be a twist when so many readers have become skeptical over the idea of death in comics. If this is going to be the end of Deadpool, I'm glad Daniel Way will be there to guide him.

You think you know what Deadpool is all about? Deadpool is playing with a different set of tools now. The changes from the previous storyline resulted his face looking normal and the loss of his healing factor. Deadpool is still the wacky mercenary itching to get the job done the only way he knows how. The lack of a healing factor now requires him to think a little more. That's something that could prove to be a challenge. It's great to see this change in Deadpool as it serves to mix things up and put him in a different position. At the same time, it might be too much of a change. It's hard to imagine that this is who Deadpool will be now. We're used to these types of major changes to revert back to the previous status quo over time. Daniel Way should be commended for taking this risk in changing who Deadpool is.

There has been debate how long Deadpool's current state of not having a healing factor will last. It's a great twist to change up the typical Deadpool story but you can't help but shake the feeling that it has to be a temporary change. Deadpool has to change the way he works and seeing him come up with an attempt at a solution is almost scary because it means Deadpool is actually thinking. Shawn Crystal's art is entertaining and we're treated to another trippy Dave Johnson cover. You have to hand it to Daniel Way for being able to stick with Deadpool for so many issues and continue to tell good stories rather than fall back on simple silly stories. As long as Daniel Way is writing Deadpool, we know we'll keep getting stories that Deadpool deserves.

This isn't the Deadpool you're used to. Still without his healing factor, Deadpool is adjusting to having hair and good looks while still waiting for his severed finger to grow back. Seeing characters go through major changes can keep them fresh but there's the question of how much is too much of a change? Long time comic readers can't help but be skeptical when it comes to changes. We all assume we'll see the return of the Deadpool we know but because there is potential in telling some slightly different Deadpool stories, these shouldn't be ignored. Daniel Way is showing he has plenty of ideas and stories to tell with Deadpool and the fact we don't know where all this is going makes it that much more fun.

This comic is ridiculous, but in a good way. I didn't think I could enjoy Deadpool stories with him being drastically changed as much as I am. Daniel Way has managed to continue to deliver great Deadpool stories. Even when we had so much Deadpool being thrown in our faces and several different series, this is the one that survived, and with good reason. This is a Deadpool we haven't really seen. There are definite familiar elements. He is still the same zany character but the absence of his healing factor and non-scarred face adds a different element to him. This has allowed for the stories to take a slightly different approach but importantly, they're still funny. I don't want to think about the end of Daniel Way's run coming up but all good things must come to an end. As for how this arc will end, I'm on the edge of my seat.

Deadpool is dead. The immediate reaction likely contains doubt and suspicion. It's not really a spoiler since it's advertised on the very cover but we do see the death of Deadpool. Brian Posehn and Gerry Duggan do a fantastic job along with the rest of the creative crew in closing out this volume. We've seen Deadpool gain many friends and family during the past 44 issues. You just might find yourself with some sad feelings. At least we get a pretty high caliber ending. The extra content by an army of talented creators helps make sadness go away but it also adds to the price. This is a massive final issue. Don't miss out on your chance to say goodbye to Deadpool and to raise a toast to a great volume.

Deadpool is back with with his own series once again and all is right with the world. This isn't Deadpool as you've seen before, especially since the public in the Marvel Universe actually adores him. It's almost like he's in some bizarro world. Gerry Duggan has more than proven he gets who Deadpool is and should be. Having him back at the helm is fantastic. We've sometimes seen Deadpool written different and just not feel right. Mike Hawthorne's pencils along with Terry Pallot's inks and Val Staples colors makes the book look good. It looks so good, you might even say it looks sexy. Where is this series taking Deadpool? I have absolutely no idea but I can't wait to find out.

Deadpool has survived 25 years and he's still riding high on his success. We've seen some highs and lows with the character over the years and he's never been more popular than he is now. There are some readers that frown upon the oversized and higher priced issues, but with so many great creators involved, it's worth the price of admission. The only downside is Deadpool is not the main focus in all of the stories. If you're enjoying Deadpool's Mercs for Money, this adds a lot in establishing their motives for working for Deadpool. Join in the celebration and throw down your ten dollars to party with Deadpool. There's a lot to enjoy here.

With one more issue and a confrontation between Deadpool and the one person willing to take him on, it's unclear how this will play out. This isn't meant to be a comic to take seriously as Deadpool is easily taking out all of the Marvel Universe's most powerful heroes. Deadpool's never been more cruel or vicious and it makes you wonder what could he do in a normal story if he was allowed to. I'm still on the fence with the series as a whole. This isn't the Deadpool I'm used to reading, but it's not meant to be. If you're looking for Deadpool to cut loose against everyone, this is a series you'll want to check out.

The idea of combining Deadpool and the 'classics' seemed like just another senseless Deadpool miniseries. Thankfully Cullen Bunn does a great job making it make sense. You wouldn't think it was possible but it does. There are some great possibilities we could see. We get a nice analysis in what makes the heroes exist and it'll be interesting to see how it plays out here. There are still a couple threads from DEADPOOL KILLS THE MARVEL UNIVERSE that may be addressed here which adds another bonus. It is violent (hence the parental warning) but isn't quite as dark as DEADPOOL KILLS THE MARVEL UNIVERSE. This is an out of continuity tale. It won't change who Deadpool is the main Marvel Universe. That doesn't matter. This is a way to see more wacky adventures with Deadpool doing what he does best.

More Deadpool isn't always a good thing, as we've seen in the past. Thankfully this Infinite cComic highly compliments the main series. Having both written by Gerry Duggan and Brian Posehn is a great way to keep the vibe going on and making it feels like it truly matters in the grand scheme of Deadpool-goodness. Reilly Brown's art is great and the format of the Infinite Comic allows for an enhanced reading experience. Deadpool is in safe hands with Duggan and Posehn. But based on the wacky shenanigans they've come up with in the past, there's no telling what's going to happen next.

It feels like it's been a long time coming but DEATH OF WOLVERINE has come to an end. There's many ways this could have happened and Charles Soule gives us an interesting ending. Because of the history of the character, there's a lot to think about over what this issue means and whether or not it hits the mark that fans may have wanted. I am intrigued with the route Soule took and it should be interesting to see what the aftermath of this is for everyone close to Logan. McNiven's art is great, as usual. It's almost a little difficult to see Wolverine in this state but that's why we paid the price of the admission. Wolverine is dead. It didn't happen quite as we expected. Now we get to see what happens next.

The death of Wolverine is having a big impact in the Marvel Universe. We're seeing a lot of books tie into it but this one actually takes back to the 'scene of the crime.' Taking place moments after the death, there's almost an eerie feeling as we see other victims to Dr. Cornelius' Weapon X plans. Charles Soule introduces us to some new characters and also brings back one character that will make you scratch your head as you try to figure out what he's doing. If that wasn't a mystery enough, not knowing what's next for these characters is intriguing. Don't let this book get lost in the mix of other "Death of Wolverine" tie ins. There's definitely something peculiar and fascinating going on here.

Deathlok is meant to be the perfect weapon. Imagine that weapon being completely unaware that it is an actual weapon. Nathan Edmondson has added a nice twist to the concept of Deathlok. Having a new character completely in the dark about being a killing machine adds an intriguing twist to the character. Well be on the edge of our seat as we wonder if hell find out what hes really doing when away. What better way to maintain a secret identity than to be unaware you actually have one? Mike Perkins art looks great here. The characters have their own feel, carving out a new little corner of the Marvel Universe yet there is some familiarity with Maria Hill and S.H.I.E.L.D. being present. DEATHLOK is a series that will completely grab your attention and youll be happy when it doesnt let go.

Looks like Boom! Studios might have their next break out new series. DEATHMATCH is an idea we've seen before but what makes it really work here is the presentation. We are thrown into the action and are finding out what's going on. It almost puts us on the same level as the characters since they are also unsure how they were transported to this place and who is responsible.

No worries about Deathstroke going soft. Kyle Higgins delivers a mean, cold-hearted, brutal killing machine. This isn't the Deathstroke that got defeated over and over by a bunch of kids. He goes on a mission and will do whatever it takes to complete. There is some introduction to his character for new readers. It's described how badass of a character he is but his full origin or motives remain unknown to the newer reader. It's clear that he's a killer for hire. Whether or not we'll see any semblance of a human side to Slade remains to be seen. If you're looking for plenty of hardcore action and violence, this title featuring a villain will satisfy and sick and twisted need (almost) you might have.

Who needs comics about superheroes when you can read one with a deadly assassin? Kyle Higgins continues to add depth to a comic featuring a killer by moving the story forward while continuing the insane violence. Getting to hear Deathstroke's view of the way the world works adds to helping us understand what motivates and drives him. We are introduced to a new villain and are seeing repercussions to some of his earlier actions. I'm still not completely sold on his bulky armor look but this is what we'd want from a Deathstroke series. Plenty of action and violence while seeing what makes Deathstroke tick.

Just as Deathstroke is killing the opposition, Tony Daniel is killing it on this series. (Well, not exactly in the same way). We've seen Deathstroke go through a change but there's a big mystery going on at the same time. While we get to see more of what makes Slade Wilson tick, there's still plenty of over the top action to show what he's capable of. Don't assume this is pure gratuitous violence. There's a lot going on here and this series is headed in a great direction.

It's like a comic fan's dream, Deathstroke fighting Batman. Often a Batman appearance feels forced but Tony Daniel makes it fun and exciting. He's been spoiling us with lots of big and over the top action. The fight between the two is just what we'd want. Daniel doesn't just fill the issue with a huge fight scene. We get more on Jericho and Rose along with those pesky bad guys stirring up all sorts of trouble. Tony Daniel is cranking up the action and storytelling in this series. There's no telling what will happen next.

There's no slowing the action and suspense in the pages of DEATHSTROKE. James Bonny and Tyler Kirkham deliver another action-packed story that keeps readers on their toes. Deathstroke has to infiltrate LexCorp while searching for his daughter. Deathstroke may be good at what he does but he might be in a little over his head. You'll want to stand up and cheer at moments while cringing at some of the hits taken. This is an superhero action comic full of substance. Reading DEATHSTROKE is a blast. Thankfully it's not a blast coming from one of Deathstroke's weapons.

Matt Fraction keeps the story, pacing and humor moving while giving us crazy adventures without the forced the-world-is-about-to-end stories we've seen too often. He has a great mix of characters to work with and ones that I personally enjoy seeing. That, plus Terry Dodson handling the art makes this a book that would be hard not to like. As much fun as it seems, there is a little something missing in terms of their motivation. The story is progressing and I'll want to see how it all ends. I've been left with the feeling of not caring about who the bad guys are that the team has to fight. It's always great to see Black Cat pop up in comics. If you're looking for a team that's different from the others in the Marvel Universe, you should be reading THE DEFENDERS.

The idea of doing Batman zero/origin issues seemed a little odd since we pretty much know all of his story. Surprisingly and thankfully, Gregg Hurwitz focuses on a time that hasn't had a lot of attention in the past. Seeing Batman before he's Batman is cool. This isn't in the beginning of his training either as he's likely been around the world already. We also get a great back up story written by James Tynion IV focusing on what Alfred's been doing while Bruce is away. This is what zero issues should be about. It's a great look back at the characters before the first issue of this series. Now I'm even more excited to see other zero issues.

The first "New 52" Batman arrives and gives us a grittier Batman than we might have expected. Faced with the Joker, a new villain and being hunted by the GCPD at the same time, this Batman is going to have to rise to the challenge asap. The version of the Joker we see not the silly clown version we sometimes see. This is a Joker that isn't going to mess around with Batman or anyone else that gets in his way. Tony Daniel sets up this early period in Batman's life, establishes his place in Gotham as well as the details of the Batcave and his new arsenal all while jamming plenty of action and suspense at the same time. The look of Batman's armor feels a little odd here and there and he has a high-tech feel but with the way things are going, Batman will need all the help he can get. If all that wasn't enough, the ending will leave you scratching your head wondering how the heck the next issue is going to begin.

John Layman steps up to the plate and tackles the job of becoming the latest Batman writer (yes, I purposely mixed the sports metaphors there). Layman shows us a different side of Gotham City. We too often see the events focused on Batman's perspective. Seeing how events unfold around Batman through Penguin's eyes and those of other criminals adds a new element to the story. Penguin's reason for his latest scheme seems a little petty but fits in with who he is and what he wants to accomplish. Having him target Bruce Wayne rather than Batman was a nice touch. Fabok's art is a perfect match for Layman's tone. The back up by Layman and Andy Clarke adds a nice bonus content feel to the issue. Congrats to whoever made the decision to have Layman start writing Batman. I can't wait to see what he has planned next. It's a pleasure having quality Batman titles each with a distinct feel.

Continuing from last issue, Bruce Wayne needs to figure out how to survive without revealing his secret identity. The story quickly shifts to Batman having to deal with Poison Ivy. John Layman feels like he's completely settled in with the writing duties on the title. The confrontations Batman has with Penguin and Poison Ivy play out differently than how we've seen them happen so many times in the past. When it comes to Poison Ivy, Batman has to make a decision in how to handle the situation as well as try to fight her persuasive ways. There are many shifts in the timeline of the story. It mixes up the pace of the story but starts feeling like too much of a novelty. Layman is heating things up with the new direction he's taking the title. Layman's story is spiced up with the great art by Jason Fabok and Andy Clarke (in the back up). This is all great news for Batman fans but bad news for those hoping they wouldn't have another Batman title to keep on their pull lists.

This issue was a roller coaster ride for many of the characters. We're seeing ups and downs for their plans and Layman is laying the groundwork for an upcoming story. His portrayal of Poison Ivy is great as you can't tell whether you should hate her or feel sorry for her. It's unfortunate that this is a Death of the Family crossover. It just felt really forced to have Penguin in the midst of his battle with Bruce Wayne and then Poison Ivy and now is immediately mixed up with Joker. We get some great art by Jason Fabok in the main feature as well as Andy Clarke in the back up. The art and ending make this issue shine a little brighter. It's great to see Clayface used and given a personality as part of the New 52 updates.

An assassin comes to Gotham and of course Batman will soon get involved. We'll soon discover that this is no ordinary assassin as a bigger picture begins to unfold. Harper Row makes her return as well and we find out what she's been up to since her last appearance. Layman is keeping a tight ship in terms of continuity. We see lots of mentions of events happening in the other Bat-titles and the back up. We'll have to wait and see if the main story results in further repercussions, especially considering the current events in RED HOOD AND THE OUTLAWS. Layman is building up his corner of Gotham and you don't want to miss out on it.

It's DETECTIVE COMICS #27. You almost owe it to yourself to pick it up if you're a Batman fan. A milestone/celebration like this doesn't happen often. Unfortunately while there were some really great stories with fantastic art, some of the others felt unnecessary. Asking fans to pay eight dollars when we just had an over-sized issue with #19 is a bit much. Still, you'll want to check out what the different creators came up with. Some of the stories really shined and you won't want to miss them.

Francis Manapul and Brian Bucellato have been missed and are making it up to us. With a new story arc beginning, we see the New 52 version of Anarky in town and he's not playing around. Batman will definitely have his hands full and hopefully will figure out how to get along with Harvey Bullock. The art and colors are as gorgeous as you'd expect. Manapul and Buccellato are great tour guides. Their work makes you want to visit Gotham City the way the depict it--even if there's people getting killed and buildings blowing up.

Comic Book annuals should focus on the current story and not tie directly into or continue from the current series. There's needs to be a sense of being self-contained so that readers can read and enjoy the over-sized format. Thankfully this annual does that. There is a tie to Black Mask's previous appearance in DETECTIVE COMICS but this issue can be enjoyed on its own. It also serves to set the groundwork for Black Mask and another Batman villain so there isn't a sense that this is just a story that won't have any impact on the series or character. Batman does give up the spotlight as the focus lies on Black Mask. Let's hope this leads to him having a bigger presence in the New 52. If he survives this annual, that is.

Normally when there's a big Batman event, we're forced to read a bunch of tie-in stories that have a more overwhelming feeling. Instead of forcing Endgame into other titles, like DETECTIVE COMICS, we get a cool one-shot that really gives a different angle on the story happening in BATMAN. Brian Buccellato shows us the story from the civilian angle, something that is too often overlooked. If you have an entire city being affected by the Joker's scheme, it's great to see its affects. Besides the story, we get some good art and cool guest appearances that really makes this stand out from your average big event crossover/tie-in book.

I don't know what's going to happen next and I don't want any clues. I can't wait for the next issue to find out first hand. This wasn't one of the "Second Wave" books I thought would be at the top of my list but its made a great debut as a new series. Find some spare change and dial up a taxi to take you to the comic shop so you can pick up this issue.

When I heard Darryl DMC McDaniel was getting involved with comics, I'll admit I chuckled. We've seen many attempts by celebrities and musicians in comics. Much to my surprise, there is definitely something here everyone can enjoy. McDaniels and Damion Scott introduce us to an interesting new world where superheroes can exist. Seeing this alternate version of DMC is fascinating and throughout the story, we even get to see a transformation and evolution of the character. Adding to the story is an army of incredible artists, each taking a chapter in this 70 page story. With real graffiti artists adding to the backgrounds, there's a great feel and look to the overall story. Because of the size and the format, there is a higher price tag that might deter some readers. But for a debut issue, there is a lot of charm and heart within these pages. I can't wait for the next volume. Be sure to track down this issue to check it out for yourself.

As a Doctor Strange fan myself, I've sometimes found myself distracted with some of the aspects to the character and his adventures. Jason Aaron adds some life to the character and delivers a brilliant mesh between a regular guy and perhaps the most powerful sorcerer on the planet. Chris Bachalo's art adds to this by easily juggling the depictions of a strange and dangerous alternate dimension with the city streets of Greenwich Village. We're off to a strong start in the All-New, All-Different Marvel landscape. This is the Doctor Strange we've known for years but it's been given the perfect dose to jumpstart the character in his new series. This book definitely has the potential to cure your bouts of reading boredom.

If you've ever been fascinated with dreams or the idea of a dreamscape, this is a series you'll want to check out. We get to see two members of the Dream Police as they go about on patrol. This introduces us to different corners and residents of the dreamscape and Sid Kotian's art fleshes it out nicely. There's an interesting twist to the story but the impact might not be as powerful on those that haven't formed a connection with the characters. This issue just cracks the door open to the huge number of possibilities here. Don't miss out on this.

If youve ever been fascinating by the idea or notion of dreams or a dreamscape, youll want to check this out. J. Michael Straczynsi is creating and fleshing out his version of it all and were learning more of the residents and the Dream Police. Sid Kotians art depicts the different residents and adds to the bigger feel of the dreamscape. The main hook of the story is slightly put on hold as we see the detectives investigating a case but it does allow us to learn more of the dreamscape. Im grateful to see the return of this comic and cant wait to find out where the story is going to go.

EARTH 2 has kicked up the level of action. We're now seeing more familiar faces and ideas which are interesting but also changes the vibe of the series we've had up until now. The feeling was there before but now there's a huge sense of having no idea what might happen next. Tom Taylor is flexing his writing muscles and there's no telling what changes we might see happen. Nicola Scott continues to give us the great art we're used to on this series. Seeing the different and new characters in her style makes it even more interesting. This isn't quite the EARTH 2 series you're used to but it's interesting to experience the changes that are happening.

Edward Scissorhands has finally made it to comics. As I still fondly recall the movie and have often wondered what a continuation or sequel would be like. Thanks to IDW, Kate Leth, and Drew Rausch, we now have an idea. Rausch delivers a fascinating visual take on Edward and his world. The more you allow yourself to be immersed in this world, the more you'll come to appreciate this series. There's a new problem that has appeared and it's going to be a long wait for the second issue to find out what happens next.

I'm so thankful for this title. In a time when we're seeing new title after new title emerge, we're definitely feeling the pain in our wallets. But with Haden Blackman and Michael Del Mundo on board with this title, we're reminded of how graceful and deadly Elektra should be portrayed. Blackman adds another layer to the story in this issue and now we get to sit back and enjoy as it all unfolds. How long do we have to wait for the next issue?

Haden Blackman and Michael Del Mundo are carving out a new era for Elektra. With the story and art, were getting to see Elektra in a way we dont usually get to see. Elektra doesnt always get a chance to show us who she is inside or whats going on in her mind. During this mission shes taken out, were able to see a little more while also getting some beautiful and violent scenes. We may only be three issues in but already, I couldnt imagine not having this title to read each month.

Whether you're completely familiar with Evil Ernie or this is your first time, this is the place to find out who he is now. This isn't just a simple retelling of his origin as we're seeing some new elements and twists added to the character. You'll immediately get the feeling that there is more to Evil Ernie than there appears. The bits of mystery as to why he becomes the character we're familiar with will pull you into the story and get you hooked. Evil Ernie is now on my radar and I am very curious to see where this is going to go.

There's been some fear that the X-Men would slowly be faded away into limbo by Marvel. While the Limbo part is kind of true, we're seeing a pretty strong start to this series courtesy of Jeff Lemire and Humberto Ramos. Things may be pretty dire for the mutants but that isn't really anything new. This issue is packed with big action scenes mixed with a heartfelt conversation during the strange meeting of young Jean Grey and Old Man Logan. I'm digging this series more and more with each issue and can't wait to see what's coming next.

It's no surprise that FABLES has gone on consecutively for then years now. With a new arc focusing on Snow White, Bill Willingham is setting up what could be even more bad times for her. There is a shocking cliffhanger that you won't see coming. The art and colors remind you why this is such a great looking comic that's fun to read. Reading this first part makes it easy to understand why some wait until the stories are collected in trades but it's also something you won't want to wait to read.

This issue didn't feel like a mere spin off story but more like one that could have actually taken place within the regular series. We're off to a great start and it should be interesting to see what happens next.

The Fantastic Four are about to leave the building. As seen last issue and in FF #1, Reed is keeping his injury a secret from his family and has planned an extended 'vacation' in order to find a cure. A team of replacements has been chosen and we're seeing the passing of the baton, as started in FF, continue here. Because we've already seen the introduction of the FF team, it feels a little unnecessary to have so much time devoted to the changing of the guard but for those not reading both series, it's an important bit. Mark Bagley has to draw a lot of characters here which is always fun to see. The problem is a couple times the art felt a little muddy possibly due to the inking. Because of Matt Fraction's storytelling and humor, this book manages to put a smile on my face. I can't wait for the action to begin.

Bravo to Marvel, Matt Fraction and Mark Bagley for releasing this issue in time for Valentine's Day. It's often been questionable just how much does Reed care about Sue. We know he's committed to his wife and kids but there's always a distraction nearby. This issue lays out what exactly Sue means to Reed. Along the way we see the team visit a new planet that contains a pretty big shock. In the overall story about why Reed decided to pull his family away from Earth to find a cure, there aren't huge progressions on the plot but fans of the series and characters will want to pick this issue up. Bagley does a great job capturing the emotion that Reed feels along with the other scenes, such as ones between Johnny and Ben. This series definitely feels like a grand adventure.

FANTASTIC FOUR: SEASON ONE is a story everyone can enjoy. Seeing what happens beyond the origin and the way the groundwork is laid out gives the characters a refreshing new feel, while feeling like the characters we've known for years at the same time.

If you're looking for some MAX style storytelling with Fantemex, this will be right up your alley. Not having to play nicely by the X-Men's rules, this story allows Fantomex to get into some stickier situations. The freedom to allow more violence and profanity gives it a harder edge but at the same time, feels a little gratuitous and unnecessary. If you are a fan of the character, hopefully you are mature enough to buy this comic. It's great seeing Fantomex get the spotlight to himself and this is shaping up to be an intriguing story.

If youre reading Brian Michael Bendis GUARDIANS OF THE GALAXY, youre going to want to pick up this issue. If youre new to the series or are looking forward to the movie, this will give you a great idea what you need to know about everyone. Venom is joining the team and Nick Bradshaw does a great job illustrating him and the other members of the team. This lets us know why and how he comes on board and sets things up for the regular series. The story did feel short but we also get previews for Jim Starlins THANOS graphic novel and the upcoming SPIDER-VERSE. This is a pretty cool FREE comic.

Hickman's writing gives you the feeling that he has a massive plan in the works and it's more than enough to keep you hooked. Who needs the Fantastic Four adults when you have all these wacky characters along with Doctor Doom and Nathaniel Richards?

This was another great issue from Matt Fraction. There was a strange feeling as if something was missing. The absence of Mike Allred's art may have played a tiny part in it but that wasn't quite it. Fraction does a great job juggling the numerous characters in this title but perhaps we're starting to see a hint of there being too many story plots happening. We do see some great development with some characters but a few others that were absent. Based on the events from last issue it felt a little odd not seeing an actual continuation of their parts. Joe Quinones does capture the feel of the title that Allred has bestowed upon us and the colors by Laura Allred further allows this feeling. This book is a combination of fun and energy yet Fraction lays in some serious elements without bringing you down. You can always expect laughs and entertainment when it comes to reading FF.

This issue has almost everything you could want. There's robots, cloning, moral lessons, nude bathing, humor and Doctor Doom. The only thing it's missing is high octane action but everything else makes up for it. Reading this issue is a crazy level of fun and sadness as we face the few remaining issues in the series. This is and will remain one of my favorite all time series. There's so much to enjoy and the story is heating up bigger than a disco inferno.

No doubt about it, Flash is one of the best looking comics around. Francis Manapul's art and layouts combined with Brian Buccellato's colors are breathtaking. We've seen some attempts by creators taking on the art and writing but there can be a slight distraction as they try to take on both duties. That isn't the case with Manapul and Buccellato. They appear to have a very firm grasp on writing the story and presenting it in a kick-ass way. We get a lot of action along with some flashback information and little updates on the supporting characters. What we don't get a lot of is Barry Allen. It's understandable as he was shot last issue in the head, while attempting to get a handle on his new power. This is really a time I long for the days of half stars in our ratings. I would have easily added this another half star to the score. The story is building up and it looks as if the next issue will bring the story to an explosive conclusion.

THE FLASH continues to be a beautiful and fun read. We're getting to know Barry Allen once again. He's getting new abilities but doesn't have the time to fully explore them due to constantly trying to save lives. We're seeing there is a lot more to the Speed Force than we saw before and Barry has some major decisions and obstacles to overcome. Because many of the "New 52" books have a separate feel in order to allow each to flourish and develop on its own, you also get a sense of isolation from the rest of the DCU. Flash is a part of the Justice League and has appeared in CAPTAIN ATOM and THE DARK KNIGHT but it doesn't feel like this Flash is the same. Manapul and Buccellato's art and colors is so good to look at, it almost makes you cry. You'll find yourself pausing and taking in all the detail on each page and in the backgrounds. There's a lot happening here and the stage is being set for the next arc in big ways.

We had a great first arc and new set of villains with Mob Rule. We have an idea where Barry is in this new established world. Now we can see the return of a familiar foe. Captain Cold is back but it's not quite the same Captain Cold we knew before. Besides the tweak in his powers, he has a reason to really want revenge against Flash. Manapul and Buccellato continue to amaze us with their storytelling and gorgeous art and colors. There is an interesting flow in terms of the way the time goes by in this issue. It was a good way to mix up the story telling but I found it to be a little distracting and that it interrupted the flow. With all the big action, cliffhanger and gorgeous art and colors, there's no way you'd want to miss out on this issue.

You may be buying the book to see Barry Allen as Flash but you'll find yourself getting hooked on the activities of the other characters as well. It did feel as if Barry's priorities could be called into question a little but this can be overlooked due to all the excitement and visuals provided in the comic. THE FLASH manages to pull me away from the rest of the comics in my stack each month. The characters may be part of the larger DCU but you'll find when reading that this comic is all you want to think about.

Flash is on a mission to save his girlfriend. After failing to save Iris West and others, it looks like Barry may have decided where his heart lies. This issue has a different feel to it, in part by Marcus To's art instead of Francis Manapul's. But besides that, we have a pretty violent opening scene and Weather Wizard has a darker touch to him. The story felt like it had a rapid finish which could have been nicer to see fleshed out a little more. We'll have to see what next issue brings along with whether or not Barry will try to do something to save the others that were lost in the Speed Force.

Last issue felt like a hiccup. Now we're getting back on track. Barry is exploring his new status as 'deceased' and it's going to be interesting to see where it takes him along with the new opportunities available. We do get an interesting look at how Captain Cold sees himself compared to how society has changed. We're getting some deep layers here courtesy of Francis Manapul and Brian Buccellato. Marcus To's art has a better feel here compared to last issue. The action may have been a tid less than I would have wanted but you can see where this is headed and it's looking pretty good from here.