X-O Manowar #42 stands for everything you love about what this series has evolved into, what Aric has evolved into as the X-O Manowar. It wasn't about who had the bigger guns, or who was the toughest. This story arc finished on a note that questioned and gave an answer as to what it takes to lead. It has been made clear that Trill will be a big villain down the road, and this was the best way of putting him in that position where not only that is established but other possible storylines created as well. Read Full Review

X-O Manowar #42 is a solid issue filled with action and interesting developments that result in a satisfying conclusion to this story arc. It's been a slow build up to the conflict between the Vine and G.A.T.E. butit's anenjoyable battle while it lasts. Aric's ability to enter the Vine's mindspace is an exciting development and I can't wait to see how this impacts the hunt for the plantings and inevitable confrontation with Commander Trill. This issue doesn't explore the deeper ramifications of the Vine living on Earth but I assume that will be done in the next story arc. I'm just glad about this exciting new chapter in X-O Manowar. Read Full Review

Confession time: a few months ago, I honestly felt thatX-O Manowar was an idiotic concept, admittedly it was one that I really knew next to nothing about until I started reviewingValiant‘s comics, but it never really resonated with me until I started reading Exodus. I can now see just how wrong I was only six months ago by judging a character based on a preconceived notion because in the right hands, he's a rich character that is rife with great story telling opportunities. Read Full Review

X-O Manowar #42 is a satisfying and enjoyable read. A solid storyline, good character development, and beautiful art make this an essential read. Read Full Review

Ultimately, X-O Manowar #42 falls flat as an overall conclusion to "Exodus", but represents a very important step in Aric's character development. Read Full Review