Doctor Strange #17 is where things really get dark. I know that is something they said this book would be as a whole, but this was the first time you could really look at a villain and say that is a problem that needs to be taken care of immediately. Mister Misery is beyond the cliche, and he takes personal to the next level. It should be fun to see what happens when Doctor Strange is done giving out chances for this monster of his own creation. Read Full Review

After "Blood in the Aether" Doctor Strange #17 ,the start of "State of Misery", is disappointing with rehashed topics pointing to a great showdown between old friends down the road. Having Irving filling in for Bachalo does little to help the issue that is disappointing from head to toe. We have already seen Misery become a player in this series and this upcoming arc looks to further that. Read Full Review

Mr. Misery is one sick individual and I can't wait to see where this next arc leads us. The story of Aaron seems like a great one. But let's talk about Irving and how beautiful his art is in this book. It's really is stunning and I hope to see more of his in the Marvel Universe.

This issue is absolutely gorgeous, with guest pencils by Frazer Irving. It's a real treat.

Excellent guest artist choice. I love the Nazi Ninja Vampires, too bad that they're just a throwaway gag.

I feel mixed. I like that magic is back. I like the idea of Mr. Misery. I don't love the person at the end (at least don't love them for this book).

There are times where issues act as a lead up to the story you really want to hear. This issue seems to be one of those, both in art and writing. The art is not bad but lacks that surreal quality present in Bachalo's work or Rodriguez in Sorcerers Supreme. There was a bit of tension built with Mr. Misery in the last issue and this seems to just reestablish that threat. We are reintroduced to Misery's purpose and why he hates strange. We also are reminded of the disappearance of Wong when Strange returns to the Bar with No Name. The best part of the story is the surprise guest appearance of Man-Thing which I am sure is to raise hype for the new series, but was welcome all the same. This won't be a memorable issue but they won't all be.

Mr. Misery finally unleashes his revenge plan on Dr. Strange, and it's a doozy. There's a final-page surprise guest star that sort of throws off this issue's pacing; the longer story about beating Mr. Misery is thus stuck at the first plot point. Guest artist Frazier Irving contributes painterly art that's passably beautiful as long as you can forgive a nigh-total absence of backgrounds.